bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upregulation of Nox1 in vascular smooth muscle leads to impaired endothelium-dependent relaxation via eNOS uncoupling
Authors: Dikalova Anna E. , Góngora María Carolina , Harrison David G. , Lambeth J. David , Dikalov Sergey , Griendling Kathy K.
Published: July 2010

Recent work has made it clear that oxidant systems interact. To investigate potential cross talk between NADPH oxidase (Nox) 1 upregulation in vascular smooth muscle and endothelial function, transgenic mice overexpressing Nox1 in smooth muscle cells (TgSMCnox1) were subjected to angiotensin II (ANG II)-induced hypertension. As expected, NADPH-dependent superoxide generation was increased in aortas from Nox1-overexpressing mice. Infusion of ANG II (0.7 mg·kg−1·day−1) for 2 wk potentiated NADPH-dependent superoxide generation and hydrogen peroxide production compared with similarly treated negative littermate controls. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was impaired in transgenic mice, and bioavailable nitric oxide was markedly decreased. To test the hypothesis that eNOS uncoupling might contribute to endothelial dysfunction, the diet was supplemented with tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4). BH4 decreased aortic superoxide production, partially restored bioavailable nitric oxide in aortas of ANG II-treated TgSMCnox1 mice, and significantly improved endothelium-dependent relaxation in these mice. Western blot analysis revealed less dimeric eNOS in TgSMCnox1 mice compared with the wild-type mice; however, total eNOS was equivalent. Pretreatment of mouse aortas with the eNOS inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester decreased ANG II-induced superoxide production in TgSMCnox1 mice compared with wild-type mice, indicating that uncoupled eNOS is also a significant source of increased superoxide in transgenic mice. Thus overexpression of Nox1 in vascular smooth muscle leading to enhanced production of reactive oxygen species in response to ANG II causes eNOS uncoupling and a decrease in nitric oxide bioavailability, resulting in impaired vasorelaxation.
Cardiac overexpression of the human 5-HT4receptor in mice
Authors: Gergs Ulrich , Baumann Martin , Böckler Anne , Buchwalow Igor B. , Ebelt Henning , Fabritz Larissa , Hauptmann Steffen , Keller Nicolas , Kirchhof Paulus , Klöckner Udo , Pönicke Klaus , Rueckschloss Uwe , Schmitz Wilhelm , Werner Franziska , Neumann Joachim
Published: July 2010

Serotonin (5-HT) exerts pleiotropic effects in the human cardiovascular system. Some of the effects are thought to be mediated via 5-HT4receptors, which are expressed in the human atrium and in ventricular tissue. However, a true animal model to study these receptors in more detail has been hitherto lacking. Therefore, we generated, for the first time, a transgenic (TG) mouse with cardiac myocyte-specific expression of the human 5-HT4receptor. RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry revealed expression of the receptor at the mRNA and protein levels. Stimulation of isolated cardiac preparations by isoproterenol increased phospholamban phosphorylation at Ser16and Thr17sites. 5-HT increased phosphorylation only in TG mice but not in wild-type (WT) mice. Furthermore, 5-HT increased contractility in isolated perfused hearts from TG mice but not WT mice. These effects of 5-HT could be blocked by the 5-HT4receptor-selective antagonist GR-125487. An intravenous infusion of 5-HT increased left ventricular contractility in TG mice but not in WT mice. Similarly, the increase in contractility by 5-HT in isolated cardiomyocytes from TG mice was accompanied by and probably mediated through an increase in L-type Ca2+channel current and in Ca2+transients. In intact animals, echocardiography revealed an inotropic and chronotropic effect of subcutaneously injected 5-HT in TG mice but not in WT mice. In isolated hearts from TG mice, spontaneous polymorphic atrial arrhythmias were noted. These findings demonstrate the functional expression of 5-HT4receptors in the heart of TG mice, and a potential proarrhythmic effect in the atrium. Therefore, 5-HT4receptor-expressing mice might be a useful model to mimic the human heart, where 5-HT4receptors are present and functional in the atrium and ventricle of the healthy and failing heart, and to investigate the influence of 5-HT in the development of cardiac arrhythmias and heart failure.
Stretch-induced hypertrophy of isolated adult rabbit cardiomyocytes
Authors: Blaauw Erik , van Nieuwenhoven Frans A. , Willemsen Peter , Delhaas Tammo , Prinzen Frits W. , Snoeckx Luc H. , van Bilsen Marc , van der Vusse Ger J.
Published: July 2010

Both mechanical and humoral triggers have been put forward to explain the hypertrophic response of the challenged cardiomyocyte. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether cyclic equibiaxial stretch is a direct stimulus for isolated adult rabbit cardiomyocytes to develop hypertrophy and to explore the potential involvement of the autocrine/paracrine factors ANG II, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, and IGF-I in this process. Isolated cardiomyocytes were exposed to 10% cyclic equibiaxial stretch (1 Hz) for up to 48 h or treated with ANG II (100 nM), TGF-β1(5 ng/ml), IGF-I (100 ng/ml), ANG II type 1 (AT1) receptor blockers, or conditioned medium of stretched fibroblasts. Cyclic stretch significantly increased cell surface area (+3.1%), protein synthesis (+21%), and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) mRNA expression (6-fold) in cardiomyocytes. TGF-β1expression increased (+42%) transiently at 4 h, whereas cardiomyocyte IGF-I expression was not detectable under all experimental conditions. The AT1receptor blockers candesartan and irbesartan (100 nM) did not prevent the stretch-induced hypertrophic response. Direct exposure to ANG II, TGF-β1, or IGF-I did not enhance cardiomyocyte BNP expression. In cardiac fibroblasts, stretch elicited a significant approximately twofold increase in TGF-β1and IGF-I expression. Conditioned medium of stretched fibroblasts increased BNP expression in cardiomyocytes (∼2-fold, P = 0.07). This study clearly indicates that cyclic stretch is a strong, direct trigger to induce hypertrophy in fully differentiated rabbit cardiomyocytes. The present findings do not support the notion that stretch-mediated hypertrophy of adult rabbit cardiomyocytes involves autocrine/paracrine actions of ANG II, TGF-β1, or IGF-I.
IL-4 activates equine neutrophils and induces a mixed inflammatory cytokine expression profile with enhanced neutrophil chemotactic mediator release ex vivo
Authors: Lavoie-Lamoureux Anouk , Moran Kantuta , Beauchamp Guy , Mauel Susanne , Steinbach Falko , Lefebvre-Lavoie Josiane , Martin James G. , Lavoie Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2010

Neutrophils are potent contributors to the lung pathophysiological changes occurring in allergic airway inflammation, which typically involve T helper type 2 (Th2) cytokine overexpression. We have previously reported that equine pulmonary endothelial cells are activated by the Th2 cytokine IL-4 and express chemotactic factors for neutrophils after stimulation. We have further explored the possible mechanisms linking Th2-driven inflammation and neutrophilia by studying the effects of recombinant equine IL-4, a prototypical Th2 cytokine, on peripheral blood neutrophils (PBN) isolated from normal animals and from horses with asthmatic airway inflammation (equine heaves). We found that IL-4 induced morphological changes in PBN, dose- and time-dependent expression of IL-8 mRNA, as well as the release of chemotactic factors for neutrophils in culture supernatants. Also, IL-4 induced a mixed inflammatory response in PBN from control and asthmatic-animals with increased expression of proinflammatory IL-8 and TNF-α but a marked inhibition of IL-1β. IL-4 type I receptor (IL-4Rα) and CD23 (FcϵRII) expression were also upregulated by IL-4. Importantly, disease as well as chronic antigenic exposure modified gene expression by PBN. Finally, we found that activation of equine neutrophils with IL-4 involved STAT6 phosphorylation and p38 MAPK and phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K); the pharmacological inhibitors, SB-203580 and LY-294002, respectively, significantly reversed IL-4-induced gene modulation in PBN. Overall, results from this study add to the link between Th2-driven inflammation and neutrophilia in the equine model and further extend the characterization of IL-4 effects on neutrophils.
Protein kinase A phosphorylation of tau-serine 214 reorganizes microtubules and disrupts the endothelial cell barrier
Authors: Zhu Bing , Zhang Li , Creighton Judy , Alexeyev Mikhail , Strada Samuel J. , Stevens Troy
Published: July 2010

Intracellular cAMP is compartmentalized to near membrane domains in endothelium, where it strengthens endothelial cell barrier function. Phosphodiesterase 4D4 (PDE4D4) interacts with the spectrin membrane skeleton and prevents cAMP from accessing microtubules. Expression of a dominant-negative PDE4D4 peptide enables cAMP to access microtubules, where it results in phosphorylation of the nonneuronal microtubule-associated protein tau at serine 214. Presently, we sought to determine whether PKA is responsible for tau-Ser214 phosphorylation and furthermore whether PKA phosphorylation of tau-Ser214 is sufficient to reorganize microtubules and induce endothelial cell gaps. In cells expressing the dominant-negative PDE4D4 peptide, forskolin activated transmembrane adenylyl cyclases, increased cAMP, and induced tau-Ser214 phosphorylation that was accompanied by microtubule reorganization. PKA catalytic and regulatory I subunits, but not the regulatory II subunit, coassociated with reorganized microtubules. To determine the functional consequence of tau-Ser214 phosphorylation, wild-type human tau40 and tau40 engineered to possess an alanine point mutation (S214A) were stably expressed in endothelium. In cells expressing the dominant-negative PDE4D4 peptide and tau-S214A, PKA-dependent phosphorylation of both the endogenous and heterologously expressed tau were abolished. Expression of tau-S214A prevented forskolin from depolymerizing microtubules, inducing intercellular gaps, and increasing macromolecular permeability. These findings therefore identify nonneuronal tau as a critical cAMP-responsive microtubule-associated protein that controls microtubule architecture and endothelial cell barrier function.
Periaortic Fat Deposition Is Associated With Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Fox Caroline S. , Massaro Joseph M. , Schlett Christopher L. , Lehman Sam J. , Meigs James B. , O'Donnell Christopher J. , Hoffmann Udo , Murabito Joanne M.
Published: July 2010

Background—

Central obesity is associated with peripheral arterial disease, suggesting that ectopic fat depots may be associated with localized diseases of the aorta and lower-extremity arteries. We hypothesized that persons with greater amounts of periaortic fat are more likely to have clinical PAD and a low ankle-brachial index.

Methods and Results—

We quantified periaortic fat surrounding the thoracic aorta using a novel volumetric quantitative approach in 1205 participants from the Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort (mean age, 65.9 years; women, 54%); visceral abdominal fat also was measured. Clinical peripheral arterial disease was defined as a history of intermittent claudication, and ankle-brachial index was dichotomized as low (≤0.9) or lower-extremity revascularization versus normal (>0.9 to <1.4). Regression models were created to examine the association between periaortic fat and intermittent claudication or low ankle-brachial index (n=66). In multivariable logistic regression, per 1 SD increase in periaortic fat, the odds ratio for the combined end point was 1.52 (
P
=0.004); these results were strengthened with additional adjustment for body mass index (odds ratio, 1.69;
P
=0.002) or visceral abdominal fat (odds ratio, 1.67;
P
=0.009), whereas no association was observed for visceral abdominal fat (
P
=0.16). Similarly, per SD increase in body mass index or waist circumference, no association was observed after accounting for visceral abdominal fat (body mass index,
P
=0.35; waist circumference,
P
=0.49).

Conclusions—

Periaortic fat is associated with low ABI and intermittent claudication.
Bicultural Self, Multiple Social Identities, and Dual Patriotisms Among Ethnic Chinese in Hong Kong
Authors: Sik Hung Ng  , Lai Julian C. L.
Published: July 2010

This research tests a model of bicultural self and its implications for social identity (Study 1) and compares the effects of bicultural self and social identity on patriotism (Study 2). Studies are grounded in Hong Kong’s cultural-political context, where the century-long bicultural development of Chinese and Western selves is now realigning with Hong Kong’s recent reunification with China and the resultant expectation to identify with and be patriotic toward China. Results from 761 bilingual university students show that biculturals with strong Chinese and Western selves are psychologically more integrated than others with weaker selves. They are the only group to strongly endorse multiple social identities as Chinese, Hongkonger, and Hongkong Chinese. The Chinese self enhances patriotism toward China and Hong Kong, whereas the Western self and social identities enhance patriotism toward Hong Kong only.
Harmony and Conflict: A Cross-Cultural Investigation in China and Australia
Authors: Leung Kwok , Brew Frances P. , Zhang Zhi-Xue , Yan Zhang
Published: July 2010

Study 1 identified three distinct harmony factors in Hong Kong: disintegration avoidance, harmony enhancement, and harmony as hindrance. Furthermore, disintegration avoidance was found to relate positively to conflict avoidance and negatively to negotiation in a conflict situation. Study 2 examined how the harmony factors were related to various conflict styles in China and Australia. The three harmony factors were identifiable in Australia, but the Chinese scored higher in both disintegration avoidance and harmony enhancement. For the two groups, disintegration avoidance was related positively to avoiding and dominating and negatively to integrating, whereas harmony enhancement was related positively to compromising and integrating. Compromising was related more strongly to harmony enhancement than to disintegration avoidance. Finally, disintegration avoidance was positively related to compromising and obliging for Chinese but not for Australians. The study extends the current conflict management research by incorporating the Chinese notion of harmony.
“Gum Bug, Leave My Heart Alone!”—Epidemiologic and Mechanistic Evidence Linking Periodontal Infections and Atherosclerosis
Authors: Kebschull M. , Demmer R.T. , Papapanou P.N.
Published: July 2010

Evidence from epidemiologic studies suggests that periodontal infections are independently associated with subclinical and clinical atherosclerotic vascular disease. Although the strength of the reported associations is modest, the consistency of the data across diverse populations and a variety of exposure and outcome variables suggests that the findings are not spurious or attributable only to the effects of confounders. Analysis of limited data from interventional studies suggests that periodontal treatment generally results in favorable effects on subclinical markers of atherosclerosis, although such analysis also indicates considerable heterogeneity in responses. Experimental mechanistic in vitro and in vivo studies have established the plausibility of a link between periodontal infections and atherogenesis, and have identified biological pathways by which these effects may be mediated. However, the utilized models are mostly mono-infections of host cells by a limited number of ‘model’ periodontal pathogens, and therefore may not adequately portray human periodontitis as a polymicrobial, biofilm-mediated disease. Future research must identify in vivo pathways in humans that may (i) lead to periodontitis-induced atherogenesis, or (ii) result in treatment-induced reduction of atherosclerosis risk. Data from these studies will be essential for determining whether periodontal interventions have a role in the primary or secondary prevention of atherosclerosis.
Osteogenic Responses of Human Mesenchymal Stromal Cells to Static Stretch
Authors: Kim I.S. , Song Y.M. , Hwang S.J.
Published: July 2010

Molecular signals driving the regenerative process in distraction osteogenesis (DO) involve a complex system of cellular behavior triggered by mechanical strain. However, it remains unclear how mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) adapt to osteogenic demands during DO. We hypothesized that human MSCs (hMSCs) modulate early osteogenic metabolism during exposure to static stretch. The proliferation of hMSCs was increased by static stretch, which, in turn, suppressed TGF-β1-mediated decreases in cell proliferation. The amount of stretching force applied had little effect on osteoblast differentiation of hMSCs induced by dexamethasone treatment. However, this strain induced sustained production of nitric oxide and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which are critical factors in angiogenesis, from differentiated hMSCs. Mechanical stretch involved ERK and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways, the selective inhibitors of which decreased static-stretch-induced VEGF production. These findings provide evidence that hMSCs act to facilitate early osteogenic metabolism during exposure to static stretch.
Ethnic Diversity and Employment Growth in English Cities
Authors: Lee Neil
Published: July 2010

There are many reasons why cities with diverse populations may grow faster. Ethnic diversity might attract human capital, tourists or firms, increase productivity through diverse approaches to problem-solving or ethnic minority entrepreneurship. Yet there are also reasons to believe that diversity could be harmful, by leading to sub-optimal provision of public goods or reducing trust or social capital. Or it may be irrelevant, being merely a proxy for class. A number of studies have shown both positive and negative relationships between diversity and growth, using a range of different measures for ‘diversity’. This paper asks two questions: have more diverse English cities grown faster? And does measurement matter: is it important to have a multinational population or an ethnically diverse one? To answer these questions, in this paper a range of models are estimated for employment growth for 53 English cities between 1981 and 2001. The evidence suggests that cities with a high proportion of their populations born abroad in 1981 grew faster in the subsequent 10 years. Neither diversity by country of birth nor ethnic diversity is significant in the period 1991—2001. However, when variables accounting for both are included together, it appears that cities with a large number of migrants saw higher employment growth in the 1990s, but that ethnically diverse cities were less successful. The results presented here suggest that considerable attention needs to be paid to the variable used to indicate ‘diversity’ in these studies and that the impact of diversity varies according to nature of the groups any indicator for ‘diversity’ is representing.
What Do Others’ Reactions to News on Internet Portal Sites Tell Us? Effects of Presentation Format and Readers’ Need for Cognition on Reality Perception
Authors: Lee Eun-Ju , Yoon Jae Jang
Published: July 2010

The present experiment investigated if and how other readers’ reactions to news on Internet portal sites affect individuals’ perceptions of public opinion, assessments of media influence, and their personal opinion. In so doing, others’ responses were shown as either individual comments or aggregate approval ratings of the article, and the individual’s need for cognition (NFC) was considered as a potential moderator of their relative effects. High NFC individuals relied more on the approval ratings than individual postings in estimating media influence on general public, but low NFC individuals’ presumption about media influence remained unaltered, regardless of how others’ reactions were presented. However, exposure to dissenting comments led both high and low NFC individuals to perceive the public opinion as more discrepant from the news position, with no corresponding effect for approval ratings. Others’ comments significantly affected participants’ personal opinion, but only for those less prone to engage in analytical thinking.
Effects of phonological and musical training on the reading readiness of native- and foreign-Spanish-speaking children
Authors: Herrera Lucia , Lorenzo Oswaldo , Defior Sylvia , Fernandez-Smith Gerard , Costa-Giomi Eugenia
Published: July 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a music training program on children’s phonological awareness and naming speed in Spanish. Participants were preschool children whose first language was either Spanish (n = 45) or Tamazight ( n = 52), a Berber dialect spoken in Morocco’s Rif area. The two-year pretest/posttest study showed that the children who received phonological training with or without music performed significantly better in a naming speed posttest and a series of phonological processing tasks than those who did not participate in specialized training. The phonological training that included music activities was particularly effective for the development of phonological awareness of ending sounds and naming speed. The benefits of the training on children’s phonological awareness and naming speed, two strong predictors of reading acquisition, were significant regardless of the native language of the children.
Learning a musical instrument: The influence of interpersonal interaction on outcomes for school-aged pupils
Authors: Creech Andrea , Hallam Susan
Published: July 2010

Researchers in recent years have increasingly placed an emphasis on seeking pupils’ perceptions of educational settings. Alongside this shift towards attaching value to the pupil viewpoint has been a growing interest concerning how interpersonal relationships, manifested as control or responsiveness between teachers and pupils or parents and pupils, impact on learning processes and outcomes. This study aimed first to elicit pupils’ perceptions of their interpersonal interactions with teachers and parents, in the context of learning a musical instrument. The second aim was to explore whether dimensions of interpersonal interaction could account for variability in learning outcomes. Three hundred and thiry-seven violin pupils were surveyed, and measures for the interpersonal dimensions of control and responsiveness, as well as measures for outcomes that were defined as self-esteem, self-efficacy, motivation, enjoyment of music and musical attainment, were collected. A principal component analysis of the control and responsiveness scales was carried out. Multiple regressions revealed that receptiveness to parental support and pupil—teacher accord accounted for significant variability in the learning outcomes. The research reported here adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that the interpersonal dynamics of pupil—parent and pupil—teacher dyads represent a powerful influence in pupils’ experiences of learning musical instruments.
Are Old Lesbian and Gay People Well Served?
Authors: Knochel Kelly A. , Quam Jean K. , Croghan Catherine F.
Published: July 2010

The lesbian and gay population is largely invisible in the gerontological literature and in planning and provision of aging services. A recent survey of providers of aging services in a large midwestern metropolitan area provides insight into providers’ beliefs, preparation, and experience with serving old lesbian and gay people. Few agencies that participated in the study provided services targeted to this population, and some agencies were unwilling to consider their unique needs. Participating agencies generally recognized a need for greater knowledge and specific training in working with aging lesbian and gay people. Providers diverged over whether separate services should be established for the old lesbian and gay population. Providers consistently expressed values of care, inclusiveness, sensitivity, respect, and provision of service to everyone. The study results provide direction for future training and research with providers of aging services.
Ground water arsenic contamination in West Bengal, India: A risk of sub-clinical toxicity in cattle as evident by correlation between arsenic exposure, excretion and deposition
Authors: Asit Kumar Bera  , Rana Tanmoy , Das Subhshree , Bhattacharya Debasis , Bandyopadhyay Subhasish , Pan Diganta , De Sumanta , Samanta Srikanta , Atalanta Narayan Chowdhury  , Tapan Kumar Mondal  , Subrata Kumar Das
Published: July 2010

Arsenic contamination of ground water in West Bengal, India, is a great concern for both human and livestock populations. Our study investigated and correlated the arsenic concentration in the drinking water, urinary excretion and deposition of total arsenic in hair of cattle at an arsenic contaminated zone in West Bengal. The results of our study indicated that the average concentration of arsenic in tube well water in contaminated villages ranged from 0.042 to 0.251 ppm and a statistical significant (p < 0.01) difference was seen when compared to samples from a non-contaminated zone. The arsenic concentration in urine and hair of cattle ranged between 0.245—0.691 ppm and 0.461—0.984 ppm, respectively. A close relationship was found between the total arsenic in drinking water urinary excretion (r2 = 0.03664, p < 0.05) and the arsenic concentration in hair (r2 = 0.03668, p < 0.05). Our findings indicate that quantification of arsenic concentration in cattle urine and hair can serve as biomarkers for both present and past exposure in cattle population.
Vertical Ophthalmoplegia Due to a Unilateral Periaqueductal Gray Matter Infarct in an Adolescent
Authors: Sánchez Fernández Iván , Fernández Carbonell Cristina , Vázquez Ortiz Marta , González Álvarez Verónica
Published: July 2010

Brainstem strokes affecting the periaqueductal gray matter of the midbrain can cause vertical ophthalmoplegia. Accompanying clinical features are frequently associated and reflect the involvement of other brainstem structures. We report on an adolescent presenting with vertical gaze palsy and left mydriatic pupil as the only clinical expression of a small infarct located in the left periaqueductal gray matter. Even when the lesion was strictly unilateral, vertical ophthalmoplegia affected both eyes.
Hypoglycemia-Occipital Syndrome: A Specific Neurologic Syndrome Following Neonatal Hypoglycemia?
Authors: Karimzadeh Parvaneh , Tabarestani Sepideh , Ghofrani Mohammad
Published: July 2010

This study attempted to elaborate the existence of a specific neurologic pattern observed in children who experienced neonatal hypoglycemia. Twenty-seven patients with seizure and history of neonatal hypoglycemia were compared with 28 children suffering from idiopathic occipital epilepsy. In both groups the most common type of seizure activities included eye movements and impaired consciousness responding well to treatment; however, ictal vomiting was more common in controls. Subjects were in epileptic and nonepileptic groups. Ninety percent of cases showed abnormal signal of the posterior head region on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A large number showed posterior abnormalities on electroencephalography (EEG). Visual loss with abnormal visual evoked potential was the most frequent visual finding. Fifty-five percent showed mild psychomotor retardation. This study demonstrates that neonatal hypoglycemia can induce a syndrome with a specific clinical spectrum consisting of epilepsy, visual disturbances, and psychomotor retardation. Hypoglycemia—occipital syndrome is an entity without statistically significant semiologic differences from the idiopathic type.
Improving self-report measures of medication non-adherence using a cheating detection extension of the randomised-response-technique
Authors: Ostapczuk Martin , Musch Jochen , Moshagen Morten
Published: July 2010

Medication non-adherence is a serious problem for medical research and clinical practice. Self-reports are only moderately valid, and objective methods are cumbersome and expensive to administer. We sought to improve self-reports of medication non-adherence using a cheating detection extension of the randomised-response-technique (RRT). This RRT variant encourages more honest responses by offering interviewees a higher degree of anonymity while simultaneously allowing us to estimate the proportion of respondents disobeying the RRT instructions. The 597 patients were asked to report their lifetime prevalence of medication non-adherence under one of two different questioning procedures, direct questioning or randomised-response. When questioned directly, only 20.9% of patients admitted to intentional medication non-adherent behaviour, as opposed to 32.7% of patients under RRT conditions. Additionally, the cheating detection extension revealed a significant proportion of patients (47.1%) disobeying the instructions in the RRT condition. Assuming that either none or all of them were non-adherent, a lower and upper bound of 32.7% and 79.8%, respectively, could be estimated for the lifetime prevalence of non-adherent behaviour. The results demonstrate that self-report measures as well as traditional variants of the RRT, which do not take cheating into account, may provide considerably distorted estimates of the prevalence of medication non-adherence.
A limitation of the diagnostic-odds ratio in determining an optimal cut-off value for a continuous diagnostic test
Authors: Böhning Dankmar , Holling Heinz , Patilea Valentin
Published: July 2010

The article considers the diagnostic odds ratio, a special summarising function of specificity and sensitivity for a given diagnostic test, which has been suggested as a measure of diagnostic discriminatory power. In the situation of a continuous diagnostic test a cut-off value has to be chosen and it is a common practice to choose the cut-off value on the basis of the maximised diagnostic odds ratio. We show that this strategy is not to be recommended since it might easily lead to cut-off values on the boundary of the parameter range. This is illustrated by means of some examples. The source of the deficient behaviour of the diagnostic odds ratio lies in the convexity of the log-diagnostic odds ratio as a function of the cut-off value. This can easily be seen in practice by plotting a non-parametric estimate of the log-DOR against the cut-off value. In fact, it is shown for the case of a normal distributed diseased and a normal distributed non-diseased population with equal variances that the log-DOR is a convex function of the cut-off value. It is also shown that these problems are not present for the Youden index, which appears to be a better choice.
Peaceful Play Yoga: Serenity and Balance for Children With Cancer and Their Parents
Authors: Thygeson Megan V. , Hooke Mary C. , Clapsaddle Jeanine , Robbins Angela , Moquist Kristin
Published: July 2010

Children with a cancer diagnosis experience symptom distress, including anxiety, because of the disease and its treatment. Parents experience stress and anxiety because of the uncertainty of the disease as well as the suffering of their children. Yoga is a complementary intervention that has physiological and psychological benefits in healthy children and healthy and chronically ill adults. On an inpatient hematology/oncology unit, 11 children aged 6 to 12 years, 5 adolescents aged 13 to 18 years, and 33 parents participated in a single yoga session tailored to the needs and abilities of the patients and parents. Sense of well-being pre- and postclass was measured with the Spielberger State Anxiety Scale. Children had normal anxiety scores preclass that did not change. Adolescents and parents experienced significant decreases in anxiety scores, and all cohorts gave positive feedback about the experience. The authors conclude that yoga is a feasible intervention for this population and is beneficial to adolescents and parents.
Differences in Symptom Occurrence, Frequency, Intensity, and Distress in Adolescents Prior to and One Week After the Administration of Chemotherapy
Authors: Walker Amy J. , Gedaly-Duff Vivian , Miaskowski Christine , Nail Lillian
Published: July 2010

Purpose/objectives: The purpose of this study was to describe differences in occurrence, frequency, intensity, and distress of symptoms prior to (T1) and one week following (T2) the administration of intravenous chemotherapy. Design: Longitudinal, descriptive. Settings: Two regional children’s cancer centers in the Pacific Northwest. Sample: A total of 51 adolescents 10 to 19 years old receiving cancer chemotherapy. Methods: Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale (MSAS 7-12). Findings: No significant differences were found in symptom occurrence rates between T1 and T2. Fatigue was the only symptom with significantly greater frequency and intensity, and nausea was the only symptom with significantly greater distress at T2 compared with T1. Conclusions: Adolescents receiving chemotherapy experience multiple symptoms that persist over time. Implications for nursing: In monitoring for symptoms, nurses need to be aware of the extent to which symptoms are present throughout treatment, as evidenced by these findings that symptom occurrence was significant even prior to receiving a subsequent course of chemotherapy.
The Use of a Clinical Resource Nurse for Newly Graduated Nurses in a Pediatric Oncology Setting
Authors: MacKay Lyndsay Jerusha , Bellamy-Stack Catherine
Published: July 2010

The pediatric oncology nursing unit at the Alberta Children’s Hospital experienced a large influx of new staff nurses between May 2008 and November 2008. There were 16 in total, and only a few had previous experience, whereas the majority was newly graduated nurses. As a solution to the high numbers of new staff nurses, the role of a Resource Nurse was developed as a temporary position to assist new staff nurses with their patient assignment, prioritize their day, and deal with complex patient procedures/treatments. Also, the Resource Nurse assisted all staff on the unit in dealing with increased patient acuity, chemotherapy administration, acuity issues, family teaching, and complicated family situations. A total of 55 prebooked shifts were scheduled from November 2008 to January 2009. A questionnaire was handed out to the staff nurses as a means to determine the effectiveness of having a Resource Nurse work on the unit. Twenty-three nurses responded by filling out the confidential questionnaire. Overall, respondents reported that the Resource Nurse was beneficial to their practice on the unit.
Analysis of the UCSF Symptom Management Theory: Implications for Pediatric Oncology Nursing
Authors: Linder Lauri
Published: July 2010

Symptom management research is a priority for both children and adults with cancer. The UCSF Symptom Management Theory (SMT) is a middle range theory depicting symptom management as a multidimensional process. A theory analysis using the process described by Walker and Avant evaluated the SMT with attention to application in research involving children with cancer. Application of the SMT in studies involving children has been limited to descriptive studies testing only portions of the theory. Findings of these studies have provided empiric support for the relationships proposed within the SMT. Considerations for future research involving children include attention to measurement of symptoms and clarity regarding the location of the parents and family within the model. With additional testing and refinement, the SMT has the potential to guide nursing research and practice to improve symptoms for children with cancer.
Altruism and Peer-Led HIV Prevention Targeting Heroin and Cocaine Users
Authors: Convey Mark R. , Dickson-Gomez Julia , Weeks Margaret R. , Li Jianghong
Published: July 2010

Peer-delivered HIV prevention and intervention programs play an important role in halting the spread of HIV. Rigorous scientific analysis of the aforementioned programs has focused on the immediate reduction of risk-related behaviors among the target populations. In our longitudinal study of the Risk Avoidance Partnership Peer Intervention for HIV, we assessed the long-term behavioral effects of a peer-led HIV intervention project with active drug users. Initial analysis of the qualitative data highlights the role of altruism as a motivator in sustaining peer educators beyond the immediate goals of the project. We contend that altruism found in volunteers is an important factor in maintaining long-term participation in HIV intervention programs and initiatives using peer educators.
Familial prevalence of autoimmune disorders in multiple sclerosis in Northern Greece
Authors: Deretzi Georgia , Kountouras Jannis , Koutlas Evangelos , Zavos Christos , Polyzos Stergios , Rudolf Jobst , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Gavalas Emmanuel , Boziki Marina , Tsiptsios Iakovos
Published: July 2010

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate for up to 7 years the prevalence of autoimmune disorders among naïve (untreated) multiple sclerosis family members compared with a contemporary general control population in Northern Greece, in a prospective case-control study, and to examine the possible relationship between immunomodulatory treatment and the appearance of additional autoimmune disorders.

Methods: The patients and controls enrolled comprised 1383 patients with definite MS and 4392 relatives in their families and a total of 452 controls families with 1652 members.

Results: At baseline, 891 multiple sclerosis families with 3112 members (73 multiplex multiple sclerosis families with 292 members and 818 simplex families with 2820 members) and 355 control families with 1580 members were examined regarding whether they had any of 12 autoimmune diseases. The baseline affected multiplex plus simplex multiple sclerosis families, the family members and the coexistent additional autoimmune disorders were higher compared with controls. There was an increase in longitudinally affected multiple sclerosis families, multiple sclerosis family members and coexistent additional autoimmune disorders compared with respective findings at the baseline observation. Comparison analysis between two time point observations (after a mean 7.1 ± 2.2 years) for each autoimmune disorder in overall multiple sclerosis family members revealed increased rates for longitudinal autoimmune Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, psoriasis and vitiligo ( p = 0.02, p = 0.006, p = 0.0004, p = 0.05, and p = 0.05, respectively). Some 145 newly developed, longitudinally definite autoimmune cases were recognized in multiplex plus simplex multiple sclerosis families; 116 (80%) of these disorders were observed in patients with multiple sclerosis treated with immunomodulatory medications, and 68 of these 116 (58.6%) cases exhibited baseline positive autoreactive antibodies. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that immunotherapy predisposes to autoimmunity (odds ratio 2.8, p < 0.001) independently of the presence of baseline autoantibodies and patients’ gender.

Conclusions: There is a longitudinally increased frequency of additional autoimmune disorders among multiple sclerosis family members, probably related to immunomodulatory therapy.
A five-year rehabilitation programme for younger women after a coronary event reduces the need for hospital care
Authors: Andersson Agneta , Sundel Kristina Lindwall , Undén Anna-Lena , Schenck-Gustafsson Karin , Eriksson Ingeborg
Published: July 2010

Aims: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the dominant diagnosis in in-patient care in Sweden and the third most common cause for long-term sick leave and disability pension. Women are higher consumers of health care than men and have higher frequencies of sickness absenteeism. The aim of this paper was to evaluate whether a five-year long rehabilitation programme for women with CVD affected the use of hospital care and sickness absenteeism. Methods: 130 women below 65 years of age with CVD were randomized to either intervention (n = 69, mean age 52.4 years) with an intensive lifestyle programme (e.g. physical exercise, smoking cessation, dietary advice), including stress management or to standard care (n = 61, mean age 54.3 years). All patients went through baseline medical examinations, including self-administered questionnaires. This procedure was repeated yearly during the rehabilitation period. The frequency of cardiac-related healthcare use was followed via official registers. Results: Emergency visits and number of in-patient days decreased significantly in the intervention group from year one to year five (p < 0.05) but remained unchanged in the control group. Scheduled doctor visits decreased significantly in both groups. There were no significant differences between groups regarding proportion of women on sick leave after one, three and five years. Conclusions: This extensive intervention programme reduced visits at emergency wards and numbers of in-patient days, which in the long run may have beneficial effects on public finances and the patient’s quality of life. The study confirmed previous findings from interventions showing difficulties in influencing sick-leave rates.
Phineas P Gage - ‘The man with the Iron bar’
Authors: Grieve Andrew W
Published: July 2010

Phineas P Gage was a railway construction workman who, in 1848, received a devastating penetrating head injury. A 4 ft long tamping iron was fired by accident through his skull destroying both frontal lobes. He survived the accident through luck, the care he received from colleagues at the scene and through medical care received from doctors. This article examines closely the injury pattern, prehospital care, trauma care and medical and psychiatric sequelae Gage received.
Chronic radiation proctitis: issues surrounding delayed bowel dysfunction post-pelvic radiotherapy and an update on medical treatment
Authors: Henson Caroline
Published: July 2010

Late onset bowel dysfunction post-pelvic radiotherapy is an increasingly common clinical scenario which is related to improved oncological treatments and cancer survival. 50% of patients develop bowel symptoms after pelvic radiotherapy which affects quality of life. Historically, bowel symptoms post-pelvic radiotherapy have been labelled ‘chronic radiation proctitis’, although it is increasingly recognised that these symptoms are due to dysfunction of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract at numerous points. The evidence-base is poor and comprises often small, heterogenous, single centre unblinded studies. This article critically reviews the evidence for the medical treatment options for ‘chronic radiation proctitis’, which include anti-inflammatory drugs, antibiotics, sucralfate, formalin and hyperbaric oxygen. The difficulties in extrapolation from the literature to clinical practise are also explored. From the available evidence, rectal sucralfate appears to have greater efficacy than anti-inflammatory agents, which are more effective if used with oral metronidazole. Furthermore, hyperbaric oxygen is emerging as promising treatment for radiation toxicity. However, bowel dysfunction post-pelvic radiotherapy is a complex clinical condition which reflects multi-site GI tract pathologies both related and unrelated to previous oncological treatments. From this review article a clear need for an adjustment to both diagnosis and treatment of these patients, as well as for further research, emerges.
Review of the safety and efficacy of ustekinumab
Authors: Scherl Ellen J. , Kumar Sheila , Warren Ryan U.
Published: July 2010

Ustekinumab is a subcutaneously and intravenously administered fully human monoclonal immunoglobulin (IgG1) antibody targeting the interleukin (IL)-12/23 shared P40 subunit. The pivotal role of IL-12/23 inflammatory-mediated pathways is increasingly recognized in a plethora of immune-mediated inflammatory disorders including Crohn’s disease, psoriasis, and multiple sclerosis. In a randomized controlled trial of ustekinumab in moderate-to-severe Crohn’s disease, clinical response was achieved most notably in infliximab-experienced primary and secondary nonresponders and suboptimal responders.
Emergency Management of Acute Severe Asthma Exacerbation in the Adult Population
Authors: Marotta Sandra E. , Belchikov Yuly , Banker Katherine , Marshall Peter S.
Published: July 2010

Progression of an acute asthma attack to a severe asthma exacerbation can occur rapidly and lead to devastating consequences, such as hospitalization and respiratory failure. Physiologic processes leading to severe asthma exacerbation may include inflammation, inappropriate hyperresponsiveness of bronchial cells, and excessive mucus production. Specific treatments for acute severe asthma consist of oxygen, intermittent or continuous bronchodilators, systemic corticosteroids, and magnesium sulfate. Close monitoring of patient progress is critical to identify patients most likely to have a severe course of illness. Prior to discharge, patient education and identification of obstacles impeding successful management and control of asthma must be addressed.
Some Issues Arising in Finding the Detachment Point in Calendering of Plastic Sheets
Authors: Mitsoulis Evan
Published: July 2010

Calendering is a process for producing plastic sheets of a desired final thickness and appearance. The thickness of the exiting sheet during a calendering operation is uniquely found by the lubrication approximation theory and the application of the Swift boundary conditions, which dictate that both the pressure and its axial derivative are zero at detachment. This cannot be used in a 2D analysis of the process, where the detachment point is the anchor of a free surface, and hence a singular point where both the pressure and the stresses go through numerical oscillations. This difficulty can be circumvented by using the boundary element method (BEM), which uses as primary variables velocities and tractions, and thus avoids pressures and stresses. Then the detachment point is found as the point where the tangential traction becomes zero. Numerical tests undertaken here with the finite element method (FEM) show that the LAT results can be used as a good approximation for the detachment point, which is then fixed. Comparisons with 2D BEM results show a good agreement for all flow field variables. However, the exact position of the detachment point in a 2D FEM analysis is still elusive, since for viscous polymer melts the contact angle is not known and should be part of the solution. Some thoughts are given about how to tackle this still unresolved issue, based on double nodes with discontinuous velocities and pressures.