bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chronic Advanced Liver Disease and Impotence: Cause and Effect?
Authors: Cornely Christine M. , Schade Robert R. , Van Thiel David H. , Gavaler Judith S.
Published: August 2008

The prevalence of impotence is increased in males who chronically abuse alcohol. Further, impotence may occur in the absence of liver disease in such men. In contrast, no data is available concerning the prevalence of impotence in nonalcoholic men with advanced liver disease. To investigate the relationship between alcohol and impotence in cirrhotic men, a self-administered questionnaire was completed by male alcoholic cirrhotics admitted to the medical service as well as by nonalcoholic cirrhotic liver transplant candidates admitted to the medical and surgical services of Presbyterian-University Hospital. Each participant was asked whether or not he had experienced impotence and if so, to report the frequency and duration of his impotence. The frequency of impotence was recorded on a weighted scale with four gradations: 4 = always; 3 = usually; 2 = sometimes; 1 = seldom. In addition, measures of hepatic injury and function as well as measures of the functional integrity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis for each subject evaluated were obtained. Fourteen of the 20 alcoholics with cirrhosis and 10 of the 40 nonalcoholic liver transplant candidates with cirrhosis reported a history of impotence. The association between impotence and alcohol abuse was significant. The impotence index developed by multiplying the frequency by the duration of impotency for each individual demonstrated a more severe degree of impotence in the alcoholics as compared to the nonalcoholics (p < 0.01). The alcoholics also had lower plasma levels of testosterone and greater plasma levels of gonadotropins as compared to the nonalcoholics. In contrast, the bilirubin levels were lower (p < 0.01) while the prothrombin time and albumin levels were arithmetically greater in the alcoholics than in the nonalcoholics studied. Based on these results, we conclude that: (i) alcoholic males have an increased prevalence of impotence compared to men with nonalcoholic liver disease; and (ii) the degree and duration of impotence in alcoholic men is greater than that seen in the few nonalcoholic men with advanced liver disease who also complain of impotence.
Regulation of Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor Function in a Human Hepatoma Cell Line
Authors: Leichtner Alan M. , Krieger Monty , Schwartz Alan L.
Published: August 2008

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) processing was investigated in a human hepatoma-derived cell line, Hep G2. Hep G2 cells bound, internalized and degraded LDL via a saturable, high affinity (Kd ˜ 2 x 10−8
M) pathway similar to that present in other mammalian cells. Although 80% of the uptake and degradation of 125I-LDL was inhibited by 40-fold excess native LDL, the same concentration of methylated LDL, which cannot bind to LDL receptors, had virtually no effect on processing. When added at low concentrations, the lysosomotropic agent, chloroquine, inhibited degradation (I50 −15 μM) without affecting the rate of lipoprotein internalization. Receptor activity was decreased 60% by preincubation of the cells in medium containing a source of cholesterol (LDL or unesterified cholesterol) and increased 1.7-fold by preincubation with com-pactin, a competitive inhibitor of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase. The Hep G2 cell line may prove a useful system both for the further study of hepatic lipoprotein metabolism and for the evaluation of new antihypercholesterolemic agents.
Ethanol and arachidonic acid synergize to activate Kupffer cells and modulate the fibrogenic response via tumor necrosis factor α, reduced glutathione, and transforming growth factor β–dependent mechanisms
Authors: Cubero Francisco Javier , Nieto Natalia
Published: August 2008

Because of the contribution of ethanol and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) to alcoholic liver disease, we investigated whether chronic ethanol administration and arachidonic acid (AA) could synergistically mediate Kupffer cell (KC) activation and modulate the stellate cell (HSC) fibrogenic response. Results: (1) the effects of ethanol and AA on KC and HSC were as follows: Cell proliferation, lipid peroxidation, H2O2, O2·−, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced form (NADPH) oxidase activity, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were higher in KCethanol than in KCcontrol, and were enhanced by AA; HSCethanol proliferated faster, increased collagen, and showed higher GSH than HSCcontrol, with modest effects by AA. (2) AA effects on the control co-culture: We previously reported the ability of KC to induce a pro-fibrogenic response in HSC via reactive oxygen species (ROS)-dependent mechanisms; we now show that AA further increases cell proliferation and collagen in the control co-culture. The latter was prevented by vitamin E (an antioxidant) and by diphenyleneiodonium (a NADPH oxidase inhibitor). (3) Ethanol effects on the co-cultures: Co-culture with KCcontrol or KCethanol induced HSCcontrol and HSCethanol proliferation; however, the pro-fibrogenic response in HSCethanol was suppressed because of up-regulation of TNF-α and GSH, which was prevented by a TNF-α neutralizing antibody (Ab) and by l-buthionine-sulfoximine, a GSH-depleting agent. (4) Ethanol plus AA effects on the co-cultures: AA lowered TNF-α in the HSCcontrol co-cultures, allowing for enhanced collagen deposition; furthermore, AA restored the pro-fibrogenic response in the HSCethanol co-cultures by counteracting the up-regulation of TNF-α and GSH with a significant increase in GSSG and in pro-fibrogenic transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β).

Conclusion:

These results unveil synergism between ethanol and AA to the mechanism whereby KC mediate ECM remodeling and suggest that even if chronic ethanol consumption sensitizes HSC to up-regulate anti-fibrogenic signals, their effects are blunted by a second “hit” such as AA. (Hepatology 2008;48:2027-2039.)
Narrative change in psychotherapy: differences between good and bad outcome cases in cognitive, narrative, and prescriptive therapies
Authors: Moreira Paulo , Beutler Larry E. , Gonçalves Óscar F.
Published: August 2008

This study aimed to clarify the relationship between changes in the patients' narratives and therapeutic outcomes. Two patients were selected from three psychotherapeutic models (cognitive, narrative, and prescriptive therapies), one with good therapeutic outcome and the other with bad therapeutic outcome. Sessions from the initial, middle, and final phases for each patient were evaluated in terms of narrative structural coherence, process complexity, and content diversity. Differences between patients' total narrative production were found at the end of the therapeutic process. Good outcome cases presented a higher statistically significant total narrative change than poor outcome cases. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 64:1–14, 2008.
Prolonged exposure to palmitate impairs fatty acid oxidation despite activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase in skeletal muscle cells
Authors: Pimenta A.S. , Gaidhu M.P. , Habib S. , So M. , Fediuc S. , Mirpourian M. , Musheev M. , Curi R. , Ceddia R.B.
Published: August 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate the chronic effects of palmitate on fatty acid (FA) oxidation, AMPK/ACC phosphorylation/activation, intracellular lipid accumulation, and the molecular mechanisms involved in these processes in skeletal muscle cells. Exposure of L6 myotubes for 8 h to 200, 400, 600, and 800 µM of palmitate did not affect cell viability but significantly reduced FA oxidation by ∼26.5%, ∼43.5%, ∼50%, and ∼47%, respectively. Interestingly, this occurred despite significant increases in AMPK (∼2.5‐fold) and ACC (∼3‐fold) phosphorylation and in malonyl‐CoA decarboxylase activity (∼38–60%). Low concentrations of palmitate (50–100 µM) caused an increase (∼30%) in CPT‐1 activity. However, as the concentration of palmitate increased, CPT‐1 activity decreased by ∼32% after exposure for 8 h to 800 µM of palmitate. Although FA uptake was reduced (∼35%) in cells exposed to increasing palmitate concentrations, intracellular lipid accumulation increased in a dose‐dependent manner, reaching values ∼2.3‐, ∼3‐, and 4‐fold higher than control in muscle cells exposed to 400, 600, and 800 µM palmitate, respectively. Interestingly, myotubes exposed to 400 µM of palmitate for 1 h increased basal glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis by ∼40%. However, as time of incubation in the presence of palmitate progressed from 1 to 8 h, these increases were abolished and a time‐dependent inhibition of insulin‐stimulated glucose uptake (∼65%) and glycogen synthesis (∼30%) was observed in myotubes. These findings may help explain the dysfunctional adaptations that occur in glucose and FA metabolism in skeletal muscle under conditions of chronically elevated circulating levels of non‐esterified FAs, such as in obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. J. Cell. Physiol. 217: 478–485, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
AVPR2 variants and mutations in nephrogenic diabetes insipidus: Review and missense mutation significance
Authors: Spanakis Elias , Milord Edrice , Gragnoli Claudia
Published: August 2008

Almost 90% of nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is due to mutations in the arginine‐vasopressin receptor 2 gene (AVPR2). We retrospectively examined all the published mutations/variants in AVPR2. We planned to perform a comprehensive review of all the AVPR2 mutations/variants and to test whether any amino acid change causing a missense mutation is significantly more or less common than others. We performed a Medline search and collected detailed information regarding all AVPR2 mutations and variants. We performed a frequency comparison between mutated and wild‐type amino acids and codons. We predicted the mutation effect or reported it based on published in vitro studies. We also reported the ethnicity of each mutation/variant carrier. In summary, we identified 211 AVPR2 mutations which cause NDI in 326 families and 21 variants which do not cause NDI in 71 NDI families. We described 15 different types of mutations including missense, frameshift, inframe deletion, deletion, insertion, nonsense, duplication, splicing and combined mutations. The missense mutations represent the 55.83% of all the NDI published families. Arginine and tyrosine are significantly (P = 4.07E−08 and P = 3.27E−04, respectively) the AVPR2 most commonly mutated amino acids. Alanine and glutamate are significantly (P = 0.009 and P = 0.019, respectively) the least mutated AVPR2 amino acids. The spectrum of mutations varies from rare gene variants or polymorphisms not causing NDI to rare mutations causing NDI, among which arginine and tyrosine are the most common missense. The AVPR2 mutations are spread world‐wide. Our study may serve as an updated review, comprehensive of all AVPR2 variants and specific gene locations. J. Cell. Physiol. 217: 605–617, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synbiotic potential of carrot juice supplemented with Lactobacillus spp. and inulin or fructooligosaccharides
Authors: Nazzaro Filomena , Fratianni Florinda , Sada Alfonso , Orlando Pierangelo
Published: August 2008

BACKGROUND: The influence of the addition of two probiotic strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus, and the prebiotic components inulin and fructooligosaccharides on carrot juice was investigated in order to evaluate the possibility of producing a functional vegetal beverage.

RESULTS: Both bacterial strains were capable of growing in carrot juice, reaching nearly 5 × 109 colony‐forming units after a 48 h fermentation, and the pH was reduced to 3.5–3.7 or below. The viable cell counts of the two lactobacilli in the fermented juice after 4 weeks of storage at 4 °C, demonstrated good survival of the two strains at low pH. Some biochemical characteristics of the fermented juice, such as β‐carotene content and antioxidant activity, were also preserved, indicating that the metabolism of the Lactobacillus spp. did not degrade these nutritional components after 4 weeks of storage at 4 °C. The positive effect was more evident when the juice was inoculated with Lactobacillus rhamnosus. The presence of inulin and fructooligosaccharides did not alter the cell counts or the biochemical characteristics of the fermented juice.

CONCLUSION: We propose this as a health juice and functional beverage for vegetarians or consumers who are allergic to dairy products. Copyright © 2008 Society of Chemical Industry
Consensus statement on the loco regional treatment of colorectal cancer with peritoneal dissemination
Authors: Esquivel Jesus , Elias Dominique , Baratti Dario , Kusamura Shigeki , Deraco Marcello
Published: August 2008

Medical management with combinations of cytotoxic chemotherapy, and/or biological agents, has resulted in an unprecedented median survival >20 months in patients with Stage IV colorectal cancer. The management of disease limited to the peritoneal cavity has been controversial and at the present time, there is no published data that outlines the impact of these new therapeutic regimens when given to patients with colorectal cancer with metastatic disease confined to the peritoneum. Over the last 5 years, an increasing number of international treatment centers have published their prospective results using cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) in the management of peritoneal surface malignancies of colorectal origin and have shown that good long‐term results can be achieved with a complete cytoreduction and HIPEC. However, most of the surgical data comes from Phase II studies from single institutions and there is a wide range on inclusion/exclusion criteria, drugs, temperatures and methods of delivering the heated chemotherapy. This manuscript will analyze and discuss the results of a group of health care providers trying to achieve a consensus statement in the management of this group of patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:263–267. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Consensus statement on the loco‐regional treatment of appendiceal mucinous neoplasms with peritoneal dissemination (pseudomyxoma peritonei)
Authors: Moran Brendan , Baratti Dario , Yan Tristan D. , Kusamura Shigeki , Deraco Marcello
Published: August 2008

Pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP) is a rare condition mostly originating from low malignant potential mucinous tumours of the appendix. Although this disease process is minimally invasive and rarely causes haematogenous or lymphatic metastases, expectation of long‐term survival are limited with no prospect of cure. Recently, the combined approach of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and perioperative loco‐regional chemotherapy (PLC) has been proposed as the standard of treatment for the disease. The present paper summarizes the available literature data and the main features of the comprehensive loco‐regional treatment of PMP. The controversial issues concerning the indications and technical methodology in PMP management were discussed through a web‐based voting system by internationally known experts. Results were presented for further evaluation during a dedicated session of “The Fifth International Workshop on Peritoneal Surface Malignancy (Milan, Italy, December 4–6, 2006)”. The experts agreed that multiple prospective trials support a benefit of the procedure in terms of improved survival, as compared with historical controls. Concerning the main controversial methodological questions, there was an high grade of consistency among the experts and agreement with the findings of the literature. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:277–282. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morbidity, toxicity, and mortality classification systems in the local regional treatment of peritoneal surface malignancy
Authors: Younan Rami , Kusamura Shigeki , Baratti Dario , Cloutier Alexis‐Simon , Deraco Marcello
Published: August 2008

To reach a consensus for reporting complications related to cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). Reporting the adverse events related to CRS + HIPEC is not standardized yet. Post‐operative complications can be divided in two categories: the effects of surgical manipulation per se and the toxic effects of the heated intraoperative chemotherapy. Additive and/or synergistic effects also exist. Different centers have published their experience with regard to the complications associated with the procedure. Various classification systems have been used which makes a temptative comparison of the different techniques and results almost impossible. An effort was made here to review the existing major classification systems: The Bozzetti classification, the Clavien classification (and two proposed modifications from Feldman et al. and Elias et al.) and the Common terminology criteria for adverse events (CTCAE) version 3.0 of the National Institute of Health (NIH) criteria. A related document was sent to an international panel of experts. The CTCAE was adopted by the panel of experts as the unique classification system to be used for reporting complications related to CRS + HIPEC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:253–257. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The Delphi approach to Attain consensus in methodology of local regional therapy for peritoneal surface malignancy
Authors: Kusamura Shigeki , Baratti Dario , Younan Rami , Deraco Marcello
Published: August 2008

At the Fifth International Workshop on Peritoneal Surface Malignancy (PSM), held in Milan, December 2006, the consensus on technical aspects of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) was obtained through the Delphi process. The following topics were discussed: pre‐operative workup; eligibility to CRS + HIPEC; intra‐operative staging system; technical aspects of surgery; residual disease classification systems; HIPEC: nomenclature and modalities; drugs, carrier solution and optimal temperature; morbidity grading systems. Conflicting points regarding above‐mentioned topics were elaborated and voted in two rounds by a panel of international experts in local‐regional therapy. The purpose of this manuscript is to describe the organization and the methodology of the consensus statements and to interpret and discuss the implications of the most striking results. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:217–219. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The eligibility for local‐regional treatment of peritoneal surface malignancy
Authors: Verwaal Vic J. , Kusamura Shigeki , Baratti Dario , Deraco Marcello
Published: August 2008

At the Fifth International Workshop on Peritoneal Surface Malignancy, held in Milan, the consensus on technical aspects of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) for peritoneal surface malignancy was obtained through the Delphi process. General conflicting points concerning the eligibility to the local‐regional therapy were discussed and voted. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:220–223. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The consensus statement on the locoregional treatment of abdominal sarcomatosis
Authors: Rossi Carlo Riccardo , Casali Paolo , Kusamura Shigeki , Baratti Dario , Deraco Marcello
Published: August 2008

Abdominal sarcomatosis (AS) is a rare condition characterized by soft tissue sarcoma spreading throughout the abdomen, in the absence of extra‐abdominal dissemination. Retroperitoneal sarcomas, pelvic sarcomas, particularly uterine leiomyosarcoma, and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) most frequently give rise to AS. Systemic chemotherapy is the standard of care for AS from non‐GIST sarcomas, but with an essentially palliative aim and major limitations. Innovative targeted therapies has deeply affected the natural history of GIST, at least in prolonging significantly survival in responsive patients. In this context, the notion that abdominal spread in the lack of extra‐peritoneal lesions may typically occur in a number of patients, along with the dismal prognosis generally carried by AS, has prompted a few centers to perform cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy. To date, the rarity of these presentations makes it difficult to evaluate the clinical results and the role of combined local‐regional treatment is still a matter of debate. This article presents the results of a group of experts from around the World trying to achieve a consensus statement in AS comprehensive management. A questionnaire was placed on the website of the 5th International Workshop on Peritoneal Surface Malignancy and the experts voted via internet. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:291–294. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The intraoperative staging systems in the management of peritoneal surface malignancy
Authors: Portilla A. Gomez , Shigeki Kusamura , Dario Baratti , Marcello Deraco
Published: August 2008

The establishment of a rationale guideline for intraoperative staging system the extent of carcinomatosis is warranted. The quantitation of tumor found at the time of surgical exploration of the abdomen has proven to be of value in assessment of prognosis and treatment planning in patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis. Four different assessments systems have been employed more frequently, thus far. The advantages and disadvantages of each classification systems are described and discussed. The results of the Consensus of the last 5th International Workshop on Peritoneal Surface malignancy of Milan, December 2006 are presented. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:228–231. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preoperative investigations in the management of peritoneal surface malignancy with cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy: Expert consensus statement
Authors: Yan Tristan D. , Morris David L. , Shigeki Kusamura , Dario Baratti , Marcello Deraco
Published: August 2008

At the Fifth International Workshop on Peritoneal Surface Malignancy, in Milan, the consensus on preoperative investigations for peritoneal surface malignancy was obtained through the Delphi process. The results showed that 100% of the voters considered that contrast‐enhanced multi‐sliced CT was the fundamental imaging modality, whereas MRI, PET, laparoscopy and serum tumor markers were regarded as useful, but not fundamental investigational modalities. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:224–227. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment failure following complete cytoreductive surgery and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy for peritoneal dissemination from colorectal or appendiceal mucinous neoplasms
Authors: Bijelic Lana , Yan Tristan D. , Sugarbaker Paul H.
Published: August 2008

Background

Peritonectomy combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy is a successful treatment option for patients with peritoneal dissemination of appendiceal and colorectal malignancy. Despite its efficacy, recurrences remain a common problem.

Methods

Patients with peritoneal dissemination from appendiceal or colorectal malignancy who underwent complete cytoreduction and perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy were included in this study. Data regarding recurrent disease found on abdominal exploration and/or diagnostic studies was extracted from a prospective database and analyzed.

Results

Seventy patients with colorectal cancer carcinomatosis and 402 with appendiceal neoplasm were analyzed. Forty‐nine of 70 and 111 of 402 patients developed documented recurrences. The median survival of 49 patients with colorectal cancer was 33 months while the median survival for patients with appendiceal neoplasms was not reached. The most common type of recurrent disease was a localized intra‐abdominal recurrence for both appendiceal and colon cancer patients. Patients who underwent second surgery for recurrent disease had an improved survival.

Conclusion

Additional treatments should be strongly considered in patients who fail an initial cytoreduction combined with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy. This resulted in 5‐year survival in 17% of colorectal patients and 70% of the appendiceal mucinous neoplasm patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2008;98:295–299. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trauma history characteristics and subsequent PTSD symptoms in motor vehicle accident victims
Authors: Irish Leah , Ostrowski Sarah A. , Fallon William , Spoonster Eileen , Dulmen Manfred van , Sledjeski Eve M. , Delahanty Douglas L.
Published: August 2008

The present study examined the relationship between trauma history characteristics (number and type of traumas, age at first trauma, and subjective responses to prior traumas) and the development of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms following a motor vehicle accident (MVA). One hundred eighty‐eight adult MVA victims provided information about prior traumatization and were evaluated for PTSD symptoms 6 weeks and one year following the MVA. Results indicated that after controlling for demographics and depression, prior trauma history characteristics accounted for a small, but significant amount of the variance in PTSD symptoms. Distress from prior trauma and number of types of prior traumas were the most meaningful trauma history predictors. Results encourage further evaluation of trauma history as a multifaceted construct.
Relationships among PTSD symptoms, social support, and support source in veterans with chronic PTSD
Authors: Laffaye Charlene , Cavella Steven , Drescher Kent , Rosen Craig
Published: August 2008

The present study examined the temporal relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social support among 128 male veterans treated for chronic PTSD. Level of perceived interpersonal support and stressors were assessed at two time points (6 months apart) for four different potential sources of support: spouse, relatives, nonveteran friends, and veteran peers. Veteran peers provided relatively high perceived support and little interpersonal stress. Spouses were seen as both interpersonal resources and sources of interpersonal stress. More severe PTSD symptoms at Time 1 predicted greater erosion in perceived support from nonveteran friends, but not from relatives. Contrary to expectations, initial levels of perceived support and stressors did not predict the course of chronic PTSD symptoms.
Nonnightmare distressed awakenings in veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder: Response to prazosin
Authors: Thompson Charles E. , Taylor Fletcher B. , McFall Miles E. , Barnes Robert F. , Raskind Murray A.
Published: August 2008

Twenty‐two veterans with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were assessed for trauma‐related nightmares and nonnightmare distressed awakenings (NNDA) before and after treatment with the alpha‐1 adrenoreceptor antagonist prazosin at an average bedtime dose of 9.6 mg/day. Ratings combining frequency and intensity dimensions of trauma‐related nightmares decreased from 3.6 to 2.2, NNDA from 5.2 to 2.1, and sleep difficulty from 7.2 to 4.1 per week. These results suggest that increased brain adrenergic activity may contribute to the pathophysiology of both trauma‐related nightmares and NNDA in PTSD.
Tonic immobility mediates the influence of peritraumatic fear and perceived inescapability on posttraumatic stress symptom severity among sexual assault survivors
Authors: Bovin Michelle J. , Jager‐Hyman Shari , Gold Sari D. , Marx Brian P. , Sloan Denise M.
Published: August 2008

This study evaluated whether tonic immobility mediates the relations between perceived inescapability, peritraumatic fear, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptom severity among sexual assault survivors. Female undergraduates (N = 176) completed questionnaires assessing assault history, perceived inescapability, peritraumatic fear, tonic immobility, and PTSD symptoms. Results indicated that tonic immobility fully mediated relations between perceived inescapability and overall PTSD symptom severity, as well as reexperiencing and avoidance/numbing symptom clusters. Tonic immobility also fully mediated the relation between fear and reexperiencing symptoms, and partially mediated relations between fear and overall PTSD symptom severity, and avoidance/numbing symptoms. Results suggest that tonic immobility could be one path through which trauma survivors develop PTSD symptoms. Further study of tonic immobility may inform our ability to treat trauma victims.
Financial and social circumstances and the incidence and course of PTSD in Mississippi during the first two years after Hurricane Katrina
Authors: Galea Sandro , Tracy Melissa , Norris Fran , Coffey Scott F.
Published: August 2008

Hurricane Katrina was the most devastating natural disaster to hit the United States in the past 75 years. The authors conducted interviews of 810 persons who were representative of adult residents living in the 23 southernmost counties of Mississippi before Hurricane Katrina. The prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) since Hurricane Katrina was 22.5%. The determinants of PTSD were female gender, experience of hurricane‐related financial loss, postdisaster stressors, low social support, and postdisaster traumatic events. Kaplan‐Meier survival curves suggest that exposure to both hurricane‐related traumatic events and to financial and social stressors influenced the duration of PTSD symptoms. Postdisaster interventions that aim to improve manipulable stressors after these events may influence the onset and course of PTSD.
Alternariol acts as a topoisomerase poison, preferentially affecting the IIα isoform
Authors: Fehr Markus , Pahlke Gudrun , Fritz Jessica , Christensen Morten O. , Boege Fritz , Altemöller Martina , Podlech Joachim , Marko Doris
Published: August 2008

Alternariol (AOH), a mycotoxin formed by Alternaria alternata, has been reported to possess genotoxic properties. However, the underlying mechanism of action is unclear. Here, we tested the hypothesis that interactions with DNA–topoisomerases play a role in the DNA‐damaging properties of AOH. First we compared DNA‐damaging properties of AOH with other Alternaria mycotoxins such as AOH monomethyl ether (AME), altenuene and isoaltenuene. AOH and AME significantly increased the rate of DNA strand breaks in human carcinoma cells (HT29, A431) at micromolar concentrations, whereas altenuene and isoaltenuene did not affect DNA integrity up to 100 μM. Next, we selected AOH as the most DNA‐damaging Alternaria metabolite for further studies of interactions with DNA topoisomerases. In cell‐free assays, AOH potently inhibited DNA relaxation and stimulated DNA cleavage activities of topoisomerase I, IIα and IIβ. Stabilisation of covalent topoisomerase II–DNA intermediates by AOH was also detectable in cell culture, and here, the IIα isoform was preferentially targeted. AOH is thus characterised as a poison of topoisomerase I and II with a certain selectivity for the IIα isoform. Since topoisomerase poisoning and DNA strand breakage occurred within the same concentration range, poisoning of topoisomerase I and II might at least contribute to the genotoxic properties of AOH.
Does the lipid membrane composition of arsonoliposomes affect their anticancer activity? A cell culture study
Authors: Zagana Paraskevi , Haikou Maria , Giannopoulou Eleftheria , Ioannou Panayiotis V. , Antimisiaris Sophia G.
Published: August 2008

Sonicated arsonoliposomes were prepared using arsonolipid with palmitic acid acyl chain (C16), mixed with phosphatidylcholine (PC)‐based or 1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphocholine (DSPC)‐based, and cholesterol (Chol) with C16/DSPC/Chol 8:12:10 molar ratio. PEG‐lipid (1,2‐distearoyl‐sn‐glycero‐3‐phosphoethanolamine conjugated to polyethylenoglycol 2000) containing vesicles (PEGylated‐arsonoliposomes; PC‐based and DSPC‐based) were also prepared. The cytotoxicity of these arsonoliposomes towards different cancer cells (human promyelocytic leukaemia NB4, Prostatic cancer PC3, human breast adenocarcinoma MDA‐MB‐468, human T‐lymphocyte (MT‐4) and also towards human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) was evaluated by calculating the arsonoliposome‐induced growth inhibition of the cells by the MTT assay. IC‐50 values were interpolated from cell number/arsonoliposome concentration curves. The results reveal that all types of arsonoliposomes evaluated significantly inhibit the growth of most of the cancer cells studied (PC3, NB4, MT4) with the exception of the MDA‐MB‐468 breast cancer cells which were minimally affected by arsonoliposomes; in some cases even less than HUVEC. Nevertheless, for the same cell type the differences between the different types of arsonoliposomes were significant but not proportional to their stability, indicating that the formation of arsonoliposomes with very stable membranes is not a problem for their anticancer activity. Thereby it is concluded that arsonoliposome composition should be adjusted in accordance to their in vivo kinetics and the desired, for each specific application, biodistribution of As and/or encapsulated drug.
Transepithelial transport across Caco‐2 cell monolayers of antihypertensive egg‐derived peptides. PepT1‐mediated flux of Tyr‐Pro‐Ile
Authors: Miguel Marta , Dávalos Alberto , Manso María A. , de la Peña Gema , Lasunción Miguel A. , López‐Fandiño Rosina
Published: August 2008

This paper examines the in vitro transepithelial transport of antihypertensive peptides derived from egg proteins using Caco‐2 cell monolayers. Ovokinin (FRADHPFL) was absorbed intact through the Caco‐2 cell epithelium, although it was also susceptible to the action of brush‐border aminopeptidases that yielded shorter fragments prior to their transport. The tripeptide YPI was resistant to cellular peptidases and transported through the monolayer, what suggests that the reduction in systemic blood pressure caused by this peptide may be mediated by effects at tissue level. Its pathway for transepithelial absorption was examined using inhibitors of the different mechanisms for oligopeptide transport in the intestinal tract. The main route involved in the transepithelial flux of YPI is probably the peptide H+‐coupled transporter PepT1. These results highlight the potential of antihypertensive peptides to be used in the formulation of functional foods.
Analytical solution of general axisymmetric active earth pressure
Authors: Liu F. Q. , Wang J. H. , Zhang L. L.
Published: August 2008

The active earth pressure of circular excavation is expected to be smaller than the plane strain active earth pressures. Using the plane strain active earth pressure coefficients in design is obviously a conservative approach. In this paper, an analytical solution is developed to determine the active earth pressure on inclined rough circular walls with sloping ground surface based on the results of slip line method. Two types of failure profiles are assumed for the slip lines behind the circular wall. The active earth pressures are then obtained by solving the differential equation in the direction of slip lines. The analytical solutions are compared with the results using the numerical formulation by Cheng et al. (Int. J. Geomech. 2007; 7(1):1–15). It is found that the difference between the analytical solution and the numerical solution is small when the inclination of the ground surface and the wall friction angle are small. Finally, design tables of the active earth pressure coefficients for vertical circular retaining walls with various angles of ground surface and wall friction angle are presented. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamics of unsaturated soils using various finite element formulations
Authors: Ravichandran Nadarajah , Muraleetharan Kanthasamy K.
Published: August 2008

Unsaturated soils are three‐phase porous media consisting of a solid skeleton, pore liquid, and pore gas. The coupled mathematical equations representing the dynamics of unsaturated soils can be derived based on the theory of mixtures. Solution of these fully coupled governing equations for unsaturated soils requires tremendous computational resources because three individual phases and interactions between them have to be taken into account. The fully coupled equations governing the dynamics of unsaturated soils are first presented and then two finite element formulations of the governing equations are presented and implemented within a finite element framework. The finite element implementation of all the terms in the governing equations results in the complete formulation and is solved for the first time in this paper. A computationally efficient reduced formulation is obtained by neglecting the relative accelerations and velocities of liquid and gas in the governing equations to investigate the effects of fluid flow in the overall behavior. These two formulations are used to simulate the behavior of an unsaturated silty soil embankment subjected to base shaking and compared with the results from another commonly used partially reduced formulation that neglects the relative accelerations, but takes into account the relative velocities. The stress–strain response of the solid skeleton is modeled as both elastic and elastoplastic in all three analyses. In the elastic analyses no permanent deformations are predicted and the displacements of the partially reduced formulation are in between those of the reduced and complete formulations. The frequency of vibration of the complete formulation in the elastic analysis is closer to the predominant frequency of the base motion and smaller than the frequencies of vibration of the other two analyses. Proper consideration of damping due to fluid flows in the complete formulation is the likely reason for this difference. Permanent deformations are predicted by all three formulations for the elastoplastic analyses. The complete formulation, however, predicts reductions in pore fluid pressures following strong shaking resulting in somewhat smaller displacements than the reduced formulation. The results from complete and reduced formulations are otherwise comparable for elastoplastic analyses. For the elastoplastic analysis, the partially reduced formulation leads to stiffer response than the other two formulations. The likely reason for this stiffer response in the elastoplastic analysis is the interpolation scheme (linear displacement and linear pore fluid pressures) used in the finite element implementation of the partially reduced formulation. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On generalization of constitutive models from two dimensions to three dimensions
Authors: Khalili N. , Liu M. D.
Published: August 2008

In this paper, a study is made of the generalization of constitutive models for geomaterials from two‐dimensional stress and strain states to three‐dimensional stress and strain states. Existing methods of model generalization are reviewed and their deficiencies are highlighted. A new method is proposed based on geometries of the model imprints on two normal planes. Using the proposed method, various three‐dimensional failure criterions suitable for geomaterials are implemented directly into a two‐dimensional model and the generalized model is identical to its original form for the axially symmetric condition. To demonstrate the application of the proposed method, the Modified Cam Clay model is extended using the Matsuoka–Nakai failure criterion. Simulations of soil behaviour for loading in the principal stress space are presented and analysed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐dimensional ultrasound of the urethral sphincter predicts continence surgery outcome
Authors: Digesu G. Alessandro , Robinson Dudley , Cardozo Linda , Khullar Vik
Published: August 2008

Aim

To assess the predictive value of three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound volumes of the urethral sphincter in women undergoing continence surgery.

Materials and Methods

Women with urodynamic stress incontinence undergoing to Burch colposuspension were prospectively studied using videocystourethrography (VCU), urethral pressure profilometry (UPP) and a 3D transvaginal ultrasound scan of the urethra. The total urethral sphincter volume, urethral volume, maximum cross sectional area, and rhabdosphincter volume were calculated, preoperatively. Surgical outcome was assessed at 6 months using VCU. Urethral function parameters were correlated to surgical outcomes using the Mann–Whitney U‐test.

Results

Ninety‐one women were studied. Women who failed continence surgery had significantly smaller preoperative urethral sphincter volumes than those who had an objective cure (P < 0.001). UPP parameters were not found to be predictive of surgical outcome (P = 0.5).

Conclusions

The assessment of the urethral sphincter using a 3D ultrasound scan predicts the outcome of continence surgery. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:90–94, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clean intermittent self‐catheterization: A burden for the patient?
Authors: Kessler Thomas M. , Ryu Gloria , Burkhard Fiona C.
Published: August 2008

Aim

To assess patients' perception of clean intermittent self‐catheterization (CISC) for voiding dysfunction.

Patients and Methods

A total of 101 patients performing CISC because of voiding dysfunction were invited to participate in this questionnaire survey. The response rate was 91% (92/101).

Results

The mean time over which CISC was performed was 5 years (standard deviation (SD) ± 6.3) and the mean frequency of CISC per day was three times (SD ± 2). Almost 80% (72/92) of the patients perceived CISC as easy or very easy and CISC did not interfere at all or interfered a little bit with work or other regular daily activities in more than 80% (76/92). Almost 90% (80/92) reported no or minimal pain while performing CISC. This did not interfere at all or interfered a little bit with work or other regular daily activities in almost 90% (80/92). Quality of life improved considerably due to CISC in more than 60% (56/92) and 12% (11/92) complained of a deterioration. In multivariable analysis, severe pain performing CISC (odds ratio 20.9, 95% confidence interval 1.7–259.9, P = 0.018) was the only factor that predicted poor quality of life.

Conclusions

The majority of patients considered CISC to be an easy and painless procedure which did not interfere with daily activities. Consequently, quality of life improved in more than 60% of the patients. Therefore, CISC does not appear to be a burden for the patient and, from a patient's perspective, can be recommended. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:18–21, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Is low bladder compliance predictive of detrusor overactivity?
Authors: Harding C. , Dorkin T.J. , Thorpe A.C.
Published: August 2008

Aims

Bladder compliance (BC) expresses the relationship between bladder volume and bladder pressure and is generally regarded as a measure of bladder stiffness or distensibility. Many types of voiding dysfunction have been associated with low BC such as detrusor overactivity (DO). It has previously been reported that the presence of DO is an independent predictor of low BC. The aim of this study was to assess the predictive value of low BC for the diagnosis of idiopathic DO using ambulatory urodynamics as the gold standard investigation for comparison.

Methods

All patients with LUTS attending a single center for both conventional and ambulatory urodynamics over a 5‐year period were reviewed. The predictive value of various set levels of BC was compared using a receiver‐operator characteristics (ROC) curve in an attempt to find the optimal threshold of BC for the diagnosis of DO.

Results

162 patients were identified and following exclusions 143 (88%) data sets were suitable for analysis. The mean (s.d.) BC in the 99 patients with DO was 92 (80) ml/cm H2O compared to 112 (91) ml/cm H2O in those who did not show DO on ambulatory urodynamics. This difference was not statistically significant according to a non‐parametric Mann–‐Whitney test (P = 0.22). Furthermore no set threshold of BC was able to provide sufficient accuracy for the diagnosis of DO. The area under the curve was less than 0.5 (0.47) indicating a level of accuracy less than “chance”.

Conclusions

Low bladder compliance is not predictive of DO in our series. It is imperative to note that our results are obtained from a cohort comprising predominantly female patients without BOO and is therefore different to previous reports concentrating on male patients with BOO. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:74–77, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Is there a relationship between glomerular filtration rate and detrusor overactivity in women?
Authors: Schimpf Megan O. , O'Sullivan David M. , Steinberg Adam C. , LaSala Christine A. , Tulikangas Paul K.
Published: August 2008

Aims

The relationship of detrusor overactivity (DO) to neuromuscular causes is well established, but a connection to kidney function has not yet been studied. We sought to evaluate whether patients with DO have differences in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).

Methods

After Institutional Review Board approval, we collected data from all patients who underwent urodynamic testing in our office from September 1, 2006 to February 28, 2007 and calculated eGFR using the equation derived from the Modification of Diet in Renal Disease (MDRD) study.

Results

Data were collected on 359 patients, who had a mean eGFR for all patients of 82.99 ml/min/1.73 m2 (±22.2). The patients were divided into groups by the presence or absence of DO on filling cystometry. There was no significant difference in eGFR between the patients with and without DO (80.9 ml/min/1.73 m2 vs. 84.4, P = 0.290).

Conclusions

Kidney function does not differ between patients with or without DO. Neurourol. Urodynam. 28:202–204, 2009. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trends in adult stature of peoples who inhabited the modern Portuguese territory from the Mesolithic to the late 20th century
Authors: Cardoso H. F. V. , Gomes J. E. A.
Published: August 2008

This study documents long‐term changes in stature from the Mesolithic to the late 20th century in the territory of modern Portugal. Data utilised originated from published sources and from a sample of the Lisbon identified skeletal collection, where long bone lengths were collected. Mean long bone lengths were obtained from 20 population samples and compiled into nine periods. Pooled long bone lengths for each period were then converted to stature estimates. Results show three major trends: (1) a slow increase in stature from prehistory to the Middle Ages; (2) a negative trend from the Middle Ages to the late 19th century; and (3) a very rapid increase in mean stature during the second half of the 20th century. The political and territorial stability of the Kingdom of Portugal may have contributed to the greater heights of the medieval Portuguese, compared with the Roman and Modern periods. The negative secular trend was rooted in poor and unsanitary living conditions and the spread of infectious disease, brought about by increased population growth and urbanisation. Although the end of the Middle Ages coincided with the age of discoveries, the population may not have benefited from the overall prosperity of this period. The 20th century witnessed minor and slow changes in the health status of the Portuguese, but it was not until major improvements in social and economic conditions that were initiated in the 1960s, and further progress in the 1970s, that the Portuguese grew taller than ever before. Since the Middle Ages other European countries have experienced similar oscillations, but showed an earlier recovery in stature after the industrial period. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The eagle owl (Bubo bubo) as a leporid remains accumulator: taphonomic analysis of modern rabbit remains recovered from nests of this predator
Authors: Lloveras L. , Moreno‐García M. , Nadal J.
Published: August 2008

The eagle owl (Bubo bubo) is the main leporid predator among nocturnal raptors. Although its role as an accumulator of leporid remains in archaeological sites has already been demonstrated, the taphonomic signature of this predator has not been properly characterised. Here we present the analysis of two samples of modern leporid remains recovered from eagle owls' nests with the aim of contributing new data to this subject. Results show that although variability occurs, the observed anatomical representation, breakage and digestion patterns allow us to distinguish this raptor from other rabbit predators. Finally, several characteristic features are noted to distinguish eagle owls as agents of leporid bone accumulations in the fossil record. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.