bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactional justice, coping and the legal system
Authors: Laxminarayan Malini
Published: February 2013

Secondary victimization refers to re-victimization by society, including the response of the criminal justice system. One form of secondary victimization is interactional injustice. The concept of interactional justice posits that people are concerned about their treatment by others during conflict resolution procedures. Proper treatment by legal authorities refers to receiving adequate information about the procedure (known as informational justice) and being treated in a respectful and dignified manner (known as interpersonal justice). One’s ability to cope with the crime may also be influenced by the criminal justice system. Particularly for vulnerable victims, there appears to be a special need for proper treatment and attention to the victim’s ability to cope. Female victims of violence, namely sexual and domestic violence, are one example of vulnerable victims. This victimization often consists of immensely violating and sometimes chronic repeated behaviour. The perceptions of interpersonal justice, informational justice and the procedure’s effect on the victim’s ability to cope for three categories of victims (domestic violence victims, victims of sexual abuse and victims of other serious crimes) in the Netherlands are compared. Multiple regression analyses indicate that there are in fact differences between groups. Victims of sexual assault perceived interpersonal justice as significantly lower than did victims of other serious crimes. The procedural effect on one’s ability to cope was experienced to the least extent by victims of domestic violence. Informational justice did not differ among groups.
Lost in transition? The changing face of Victim Support
Authors: Simmonds Lesley
Published: February 2013

This article examines how Victim Support in the UK has developed over time, from its early beginnings as a voluntary sector organization operating in a less formal manner than is the case today, to becoming ‘the’ major professional key agency working for and on behalf of victims of crime. Victim Support began life as a developing network of support schemes, essentially responding to victims on the basis of local ‘need’. Whilst by 1979 a national office had been created, its role was to act more as an umbrella body rather than as a regulating and standardizing agent. Local schemes were affiliated to this body, but continued to work and be managed independently within their own geographical areas. This situation changed over time as the managerialism that was introduced originally into the public sector pervaded the voluntary sector also. Thus, for Victim Support, services became increasingly more centrally ‘managed’, professionalized and standardized. In this sense it may be argued that Victim Support has undergone a ‘transition’, transporting the agency beyond all recognition from its early beginnings as a more generalist victims’ service to an increasingly targeted one. Part of the transition also has been the shift to a more case-managed approach whereby there is much greater emphasis upon the role of professional staff in assessing victims’ needs, and the filtering of work to volunteers. These shifts have taken place against a changing political backdrop wherein the voluntary sector has been drawn much more into the work of the state, and where for agencies such as Victim Support there have been tremendous rewards in taking on this role.
Polyomavirus-Associated Nephritis in 2 Horses
Authors: Jennings S. H. , Wise A. G. , Nickeleit V. , Maes R. K. , Cianciolo R. E. , Piero F. Del , Law J. M. , Kim Y. , McCalla A. C. , Breuhaus B. A. , Roberts M. C. , Linder K. E.
Published: February 2013

Polyomaviruses produce latent and asymptomatic infections in many species, but productive and lytic infections are rare. In immunocompromised humans, polyomaviruses can cause tubulointerstitial nephritis, demyelination, or meningoencephalitis in the central nervous system and interstitial pneumonia. This report describes 2 Standardbred horses with tubular necrosis and tubulointerstitial nephritis associated with productive equine polyomavirus infection that resembles BK polyomavirus nephropathy in immunocompromised humans.
Experimental activation of the sphenopalatine ganglion provokes cluster-like attacks in humans
Authors: Schytz Henrik W , Barløse Mads , Guo Song , Selb Juliette , Caparso Anthony , Jensen Rigmor , Ashina Messoud
Published: February 2013

Background

High frequency (HF) stimulation of the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) is an emerging abortive treatment for cluster headache (CH) attacks. HF SPG stimulation is thought to exert its effect by physiologically blocking parasympathetic outflow. We hypothesized that low frequency (LF) SPG stimulation may activate the SPG, causing increased parasympathetic outflow and thereby provoking cluster attacks in CH patients.

Methods

In a double-blind randomized cross-over study, seven CH patients implanted with an SPG neurostimulator were randomly allocated to receive HF or LF stimulation for 3 min on 2 separate days. We recorded headache characteristics and autonomic symptoms during and after stimulation.

Results

Six patients completed the study. Three out of six patients (50%) reported ipsilateral cluster-like attacks during or within 30 min of LF SPG stimulation. These cluster-like attacks were all successfully treated with the therapeutic HF SPG stimulation. One out of six reported a cluster-like attack with 3 min HF SPG stimulation, which was also successfully treated with continued HF therapeutic SPG stimulation.

Discussion

LF SPG stimulation may induce cluster-like attacks with autonomic features, which can subsequently be treated by HF SPG stimulation. Efferent parasympathetic outflow from the SPG may initiate autonomic symptoms and activate trigeminovascular sensory afferents, which may initiate the onset of pain associated with CH.
Influences of operational practices on municipal solid waste landfill storage capacity
Authors: Li Yu-Chao , Liu Hai-Long , Cleall Peter John , Ke Han , Bian Xue-Cheng
Published: February 2013

The quantitative effects of three operational factors, that is initial compaction, decomposition condition and leachate level, on municipal solid waste (MSW) landfill settlement and storage capacity are investigated in this article via consideration of a hypothetical case. The implemented model for calculating landfill compression displacement is able to consider decreases in compressibility induced by biological decomposition and load dependence of decomposition compression for the MSW. According to the investigation, a significant increase in storage capacity can be achieved by intensive initial compaction, adjustment of decomposition condition and lowering of leachate levels. The quantitative investigation presented aims to encourage landfill operators to improve management to enhance storage capacity. Furthermore, improving initial compaction and creating a preferential decomposition condition can also significantly reduce operational and post-closure settlements, respectively, which helps protect leachate and gas management infrastructure and monitoring equipment in modern landfills.
Managing Hypersensitivity to Asparaginase in Pediatrics, Adolescents, and Young Adults
Authors: Shinnick Sara E. , Browning Mary L. , Koontz Susannah E.
Published: February 2013

Hypersensitivity reactions to chemotherapeutic drugs have been documented for numerous cancer therapies. Clinical hypersensitivity to Escherichia coli asparaginase has been reported to range from 0% to 75%. Throughout the United States, nurses assume frontline responsibility for the assessment of asparaginase-related hypersensitivity reactions. It is essential that nurses educate themselves on the signs and symptoms of asparaginase-related hypersensitivity reactions as well as current supportive care approaches. The purpose of this review is to summarize acute lymphoblastic leukemia and the role of asparaginase and the pathology of allergic reactions. We will also update nurses on the differences in asparaginase preparations including dosing, half-life, rates of hypersensitivity, and routes of administration. A summary of current management and supportive care strategies will be provided as will a discussion of the relationship between allergy, antibodies, and asparaginase activity.
Prognostic Classification of Fifth Metatarsal Stress Fracture Using Plantar Gap
Authors: Lee Kyung Tai , Park Young Uk , Jegal Hyuk , Park Jong Won , Choi Jung Pil , Kim Jin Su
Published: February 2013

Background:

There have been diverse results even in same Torg type of fifth metatarsal stress fractures.

Methods:

Eighty-six cases with a fifth metatarsal stress fracture that were treated with modified tension band wiring from January 2003 to May 2009 were evaluated retrospectively. Each case was classified according to Torg’s classification and a new classification. Using the new proposed classification, cases were subdivided into complete fracture and incomplete fracture. The cases of incomplete fracture were subdivided based on presence or absence of plantar gap more than 1 mm. After surgery, bone union was determined by CT. Statistical analysis of the Torg classification and time for bone union as well as the proposed new classification and time for bone union was performed.

Results:

There was a significant difference in the time for bone union among the three Torg types ( P = 0.004). The mean time for bone union in group A (complete fracture, n = 32) was 67.5 ± 28.8, and it was 103.2 ± 47.7 for group B (incomplete fracture, n = 54). There was a significant difference in time for bone union between them ( P < 0.001). The mean time for bone union in group B1 (incomplete fracture, plantar gap less than 1 mm, n = 16) was 73.9 ± 26.7, and it was 115.5 ± 45.4 for group B2 (incomplete fracture, plantar gap 1 mm or more, n = 38). There was a significant difference in time for bone union between them ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The results of this study suggest that the classification incorporating the plantar gap might be used for classification of fifth metatarsal stress fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative series.
Oral and Dermal Developmental Toxicity Studies of Phenylethyl Alcohol in Rats
Authors: Politano Valerie T. , Diener Robert M. , Christian Mildred S. , Hoberman Alan M. , Palmer Anthony , Ritacco Gretchen , Adams Timothy B. , Api Anne Marie
Published: February 2013

Phenylethyl alcohol (PEA) was tested for developmental toxicity. Pregnant rats were fed 0, 83, 266, or 799 mg/kg/d PEA on gestation days (GDs) 6 to 15; only minimal, nonsignificant effects were observed. In dermal studies, PEA (neat) was applied to the skin on GDs 6 to 15 at dosages of 0, 140, 430, or 1400 mg/kg/d and at 0, 70, 140, 280, 430, or 700 mg/kg/d in a corroborative study. Observations included maternal and embryo-fetal toxicity/abnormalities at 1400 mg/kg/d, increased incidences of rudimentary cervical ribs at ≥430 mg/kg/d, and reduced fetal body weights at ≥140 mg/kg/d. Dermal maternal and developmental no-observed-adverse-effect levels are 70 mg/kg/d, based on dermal irritation and reductions (nonsignificant) in fetal body weights. Human exposure from fragrances is 0.02 mg/kg/d, resulting in a margin of safety >2600, when marked differences in dermal absorption between rats and humans are considered. Under normal fragrance use conditions, PEA is not a developmental toxicity hazard for humans.
Personalized medicine for osteoarthritis: where are we now?
Authors: Sawitzke Allen Dale
Published: February 2013

Personalized medicine is a much talked about subject that is a timely and important development to healthcare in general and also specifically for patients affected by osteoarthritis. This review uses biomarker examples pertinent to osteoarthritis to highlight the current status of the field, while also highlighting probable future developments. It is not meant to be an exhaustive account. The BIPED(s) [Burden of disease, Investigative, Prognosis, Efficacy, Diagnosis (safety)] classification system is used to organize the discussion of examples. Biomarkers pertaining to burden, investigation, prognosis, efficacy, diagnosis and safety are highlighted. The examples are followed by a discussion of issues related to interpretation and application of biomarker results and approaches to solve the challenges interpretation faces, including graphical, mathematical and synthetic representations. Through this review, it is hoped that a better appreciation can be gained of the potential and pitfalls of personal medicine in the care of patients with osteoarthritis.
c-Maf Transcription Factor Regulates ADAMTS-12 Expression in Human Chondrogenic Cells
Authors: Hong Eunmee , Yik Jasper , Amanatullah Derek F. , Di Cesare Paul E. , Haudenschild Dominik R.
Published: February 2013

Objective:

ADAMTS ( a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombo spondin type-1 motif) zinc metalloproteinases are important during the synthesis and breakdown of cartilage extracellular matrix. ADAMTS-12 is up-regulated during in vitro chondrogenesis and embryonic limb development; however, the regulation of ADAMTS-12 expression in cartilage remains unknown. The transcription factor c-Maf is a member of Maf family of basic ZIP (bZIP) transcription factors. Expression of c-Maf is highest in hypertrophic chondrocytes during embryonic development and postnatal growth. We hypothesize that c-Maf and ADAMTS-12 are co-expressed during chondrocyte differentiation and that c-Maf regulates ADAMTS-12 expression during chondrogenesis.

Design:

Promoter analysis and species alignments identified potential c-Maf binding sites in the ADAMTS-12 promoter. c-Maf and ADAMTS-12 co-expression was monitored during chondrogenesis of stem cell pellet cultures. Luciferase expression driven by ADAMTS-12 promoter segments was measured in the presence and absence of c-Maf, and synthetic oligonucleotides were used to confirm specific binding of c-Maf to ADAMTS-12 promoter sequences.

Results:

In vitro chondrogenesis from human mesenchymal stem cells revealed co-expression of ADAMTS-12 and c-Maf during differentiation. Truncation and point mutations of the ADAMTS-12 promoter evaluated in reporter assays localized the response to the proximal 315 bp of the ADAMTS-12 promoter, which contained a predicted c-Maf recognition element (MARE) at position -61. Electorphoretic mobility shift assay confirmed that c-Maf directly interacted with the MARE at position -61.

Conclusions:

These data suggest that c-Maf is involved in chondrocyte differentiation and hypertrophy, at least in part, through the regulation of ADAMTS-12 expression at a newly identified MARE in its proximal promoter.
Medication adherence in schizophrenia: factors influencing adherence and consequences of nonadherence, a systematic literature review
Authors: Higashi Kyoko , Medic Goran , Littlewood Kavi J. , Diez Teresa , Granström Ola , De Hert Marc
Published: February 2013

Background:

Nonadherence to medication is a recognized problem and may be the most challenging aspect of treatment.

Methods:

We performed a systematic review of factors that influence adherence and the consequences of nonadherence to the patient, healthcare system and society, in patients with schizophrenia. Particular attention was given to the effect of nonadherence on hospitalization rates, as a key driver of increased costs of care. A qualitative systematic literature review was conducted using a broad search strategy using disease and adherence terms. Due to the large number of abstracts identified, article selection was based on studies with larger sample sizes published after 2001. Thirty-seven full papers were included: 15 studies on drivers and 22 on consequences, of which 12 assessed the link between nonadherence and hospitalization.

Results:

Key drivers of nonadherence included lack of insight, medication beliefs and substance abuse. Key consequences of nonadherence included greater risk of relapse, hospitalization and suicide. Factors positively related to adherence were a good therapeutic relationship with physician and perception of benefits of medication. The most frequently reported driver and consequence were lack of insight and greater risk of hospitalization respectively.

Conclusions:

Improving adherence in schizophrenia may have a considerable positive impact on patients and society. This can be achieved by focusing on the identified multitude of factors driving nonadherence.
Notch controls generation and function of human effector CD8+ T cells
Authors: Kuijk Loes M. , Verstege Marleen I. , Rekers Niels V. , Bruijns Sven C. , Hooijberg Erik , Roep Bart O. , de Gruijl Tanja D. , van Kooyk Yvette , Unger Wendy W. J.
Published: February 2013

Key Points

Activation-induced Notch signaling is crucial for both generation and effector functions of primary naive CD8 T cells. Notch signaling is needed for expansion and IFNγ release but not for cytolytic activity of established effector CD8 T cells.
Multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacteria colonization of healthy US military personnel in the US and Afghanistan
Authors: Vento Todd J , Cole David W , Mende Katrin , Calvano Tatjana P , Rini Elizabeth A , Tully Charla C , Zera Wendy C , Guymon Charles H , Yu Xin , Cheatle Kristelle A , Akers Kevin S , Beckius Miriam L , Landrum Michael L , Murray Clinton K
Published: February 2013

Background

The US military has seen steady increases in multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacteria (GNB) infections in casualties from Iraq and Afghanistan. This study evaluates the prevalence of MDR GNB colonization in US military personnel.

Methods

GNB colonization surveillance of healthy, asymptomatic military personnel (101 in the US and 100 in Afghanistan) was performed by swabbing 7 anatomical sites. US-based personnel had received no antibiotics within 30 days of specimen collection, and Afghanistan-based personnel were receiving doxycycline for malaria chemoprophylaxis at time of specimen collection. Isolates underwent genotypic and phenotypic characterization.

Results

The only colonizing MDR GNB recovered in both populations was Escherichia coli (p=0.01), which was seen in 2% of US-based personnel (all perirectal) and 11% of Afghanistan-based personnel (10 perirectal, 1 foot+groin). Individuals with higher off-base exposures in Afghanistan did not show a difference in overall GNB colonization or MDR E. coli colonization, compared with those with limited off-base exposures.

Conclusion

Healthy US- and Afghanistan-based military personnel have community onset-MDR E. coli colonization, with Afghanistan-based personnel showing a 5.5-fold higher prevalence. The association of doxycycline prophylaxis or other exposures with antimicrobial resistance and increased rates of MDR E. coli colonization needs further evaluation.
Metabolic syndrome biomarkers and early breast cancer in Saudi women: evidence for the presence of a systemic stress response and/or a pre-existing metabolic syndrome-related neoplasia risk?
Authors: Alokail Majed S , Al-Daghri Nasser , Abdulkareem Amal , Draz Hossam M , Yakout Sobhy M , Alnaami Abdullah M , Sabico Shaun , Alenad Amal M , Chrousos George P
Published: February 2013

Background

Obesity has been linked to many adverse health consequences, including breast cancer. This study aims to determine adipocytokine and other biological changes in recently diagnosed breast cancer patients before therapy is started.

Methods

A total of 109 female Saudi subjects [56 newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve, histologically-confirmed breast cancer cases and 53 age- and BMI-matched controls] were enrolled in this study. Anthropometric data were collected. Serum insulin, adipocytokines and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) concentrations were measured using a customized multiplex Luminex assay. Hypersensitive C-Reactive Protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and angiotensin II (ANG II) were measured using ELISA.

Results

A few days in the diagnosis, breast cancer subjects had significantly higher systolic blood pressure (p = 0.03), glucose (p = 0.01), triglycerides (p = 0.001), leptin (p = 0.044), resistin (p = 0.04), ANG II (p = 0.02), TNF-α (p = 0.045), and CRP (p = 0.04) than the controls. On the other hand, HDL (p = 0.01) and adiponectin (p = 0.02) were significantly lower in cancer subjects than controls. A significant association was found between elevated triglycerides (TG) and breast cancer [OR (95% CI), 6.1(1.8, 15.6),p = 0.004], as well as elevated ANG II [OR (95% CI), 5.2(1.2, 14.3),p = 0.03]. On the other hand, aPAI and HDL correlated negatively with breast cancer [OR (95% CI), 0.076(0.01, 0.34),p = 0.001; 0.30(0.09, 0.95),p0.04, respectively].

Conclusion

Circulating ANGII and triglycerides were positively associated with early breast cancer. In contrast, HDL-cholesterol correlated negatively with ANG II and aPAI in these patients. This suggests that patients with recently diagnosed breast cancer have biochemical changes consistent with an activated stress response and/or that patients with metabolic syndrome manifestations have a higher risk of developing this disease.
SPARC expression in CML is associated to imatinib treatment and to inhibition of leukemia cell proliferation
Authors: Giallongo Cesarina , La Cava Piera , Tibullo Daniele , Barbagallo Ignazio , Parrinello Nunziatina , Cupri Alessandra , Stagno Fabio , Consoli Carla , Chiarenza Annalisa , Palumbo Giuseppe A , Di Raimondo Francesco
Published: February 2013

Background

SPARC is a matricellular glycoprotein with growth-inhibitory and antiangiogenic activity in some cell types. The study of this protein in hematopoietic malignancies led to conflicting reports about its role as a tumor suppressor or promoter, depending on its different functions in the tumor microenvironment. In this study we investigated the variations in SPARC production by peripheral blood cells from chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients at diagnosis and after treatment and we identified the subpopulation of cells that are the prevalent source of SPARC.

Methods

We evaluated SPARC expression using real-time PCR and western blotting. SPARC serum levels were detected by ELISA assay. Finally we analyzed the interaction between exogenous SPARC and imatinib (IM), in vitro, using ATP-lite and cell cycle analysis.

Results

Our study shows that the CML cells of patients at diagnosis have a low mRNA and protein expression of SPARC. Low serum levels of this protein are also recorded in CML patients at diagnosis. However, after IM treatment we observed an increase of SPARC mRNA, protein, and serum level in the peripheral blood of these patients that had already started at 3 months and was maintained for at least the 18 months of observation. This SPARC increase was predominantly due to monocyte production. In addition, exogenous SPARC protein reduced the growth of K562 cell line and synergized in vitro with IM by inhibiting cell cycle progression from G1 to S phase.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that low endogenous SPARC expression is a constant feature of BCR/ABL positive cells and that IM treatment induces SPARC overproduction by normal cells. This exogenous SPARC may inhibit CML cell proliferation and may synergize with IM activity against CML.
Is insufficient knowledge of epilepsy the reason for low levels of healthcare in the Lao PDR?
Authors: Harimanana Aina , Chivorakul Phetvongsinh , Souvong Vimalay , Preux Pierre-Marie , Barennes Hubert
Published: February 2013

Background

The treatment gap for epilepsy is considerable in low and middle-income countries. In the Lao PDR it is estimated at over 90%. Health workers play a significant role in bridging the gap between people with epilepsy (PWE) and access to epilepsy care. In a national survey we assessed: 1) the knowledge and practices of health workers in the Lao PDR towards the disease, and, 2) patient attendance at health facilities.

Methods

We conducted a random three-stage sampling of health workers at the provincial, district and health center levels in 2009.

Results

Overall, 284 health workers were enrolled in 50 health facilities of 11 provinces: health centers 24.7%; district hospitals 23.2%; and province hospitals 52.1%. Only a minority of these (2.5%) recalled ever having received training or seeking information on epilepsy. Our survey showed a lack of knowledge in diagnosing and prescribing drugs for epilepsy, including phenobarbital, the first-line of treatment. The majority of respondents (59.9%) was unaware of the availability of antiepileptic drugs in health facilities. Only 10 (20%) health facilities, and no health centres, received people with epilepsy. It was estimated that one PWE per month receives medical attention. Traditional beliefs about PWE were common; such as the idea that epilepsy could be transmitted through saliva (63.2%). A higher attendance of PWE was observed in province hospitals where the knowledge of epilepsy care was higher. Global acceptance of people with epilepsy was low.

Conclusions

The low level of knowledge of epilepsy on the part of health workers may be contributing to the wide treatment gap in the Lao PDR. Improving knowledge of this disease and increasing the availability of antiepileptic drugs will reduce misconceptions about epilepsy, thus encouraging more PWE to seek treatment. Community-based educational programs and extensive advocacy for people with epilepsy only began in 2009.
Diverse captive non-human primates with phytanic acid-deficient diets rich in plant products have substantial phytanic acid levels in their red blood cells
Authors: Moser Ann B , Hey Jody , Dranchak Patricia K , Karaman Mazen W , Zhao Junsong , Cox Laura A , Ryder Oliver A , Hacia Joseph G
Published: February 2013

Background

Humans and rodents with impaired phytanic acid (PA) metabolism can accumulate toxic stores of PA that have deleterious effects on multiple organ systems. Ruminants and certain fish obtain PA from the microbial degradation of dietary chlorophyll and/or through chlorophyll-derived precursors. In contrast, humans cannot derive PA from chlorophyll and instead normally obtain it only from meat, dairy, and fish products.

Results

Captive apes and Old world monkeys had significantly higher red blood cell (RBC) PA levels relative to humans when all subjects were fed PA-deficient diets. Given the adverse health effects resulting from PA over accumulation, we investigated the molecular evolution of thirteen PA metabolism genes in apes, Old world monkeys, and New world monkeys. All non-human primate (NHP) orthologs are predicted to encode full-length proteins with the marmoset Phyh gene containing a rare, but functional, GA splice donor dinucleotide. Acox2, Scp2, and Pecr sequences had amino acid positions with accelerated substitution rates while Amacr had significant variation in evolutionary rates in apes relative to other primates.

Conclusions

Unlike humans, diverse captive NHPs with PA-deficient diets rich in plant products have substantial RBC PA levels. The favored hypothesis is that NHPs can derive significant amounts of PA from the degradation of ingested chlorophyll through gut fermentation. If correct, this raises the possibility that RBC PA levels could serve as a biomarker for evaluating the digestive health of captive NHPs. Furthermore, the evolutionary rates of the several genes relevant to PA metabolism provide candidate genetic adaptations to NHP diets.
Altered responsiveness to extracellular ATP enhances acetaminophen hepatotoxicity
Authors: Amaral Sylvia S , Oliveira André G , Marques Pedro E , Quintão Jayane L D , Pires Daniele A , Resende Rodrigo R , Sousa Bruna R , Melgaço Juliana G , Pinto Marcelo A , Russo Remo C , Gomes Ariane k C , Andrade Lidia M , Zanin Rafael F , Pereira Rafaela V S , Bonorino Cristina , Soriani Frederico M , Lima Cristiano X , Cara Denise C , Teixeira Mauro M , Leite Maria F , Menezes Gustavo B
Published: February 2013

Background

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is secreted from hepatocytes under physiological conditions and plays an important role in liver biology through the activation of P2 receptors. Conversely, higher extracellular ATP concentrations, as observed during necrosis, trigger inflammatory responses that contribute to the progression of liver injury. Impaired calcium (Ca2+) homeostasis is a hallmark of acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatotoxicity, and since ATP induces mobilization of the intracellular Ca2+ stocks, we evaluated if the release of ATP during APAP-induced necrosis could directly contribute to hepatocyte death.

Results

APAP overdose resulted in liver necrosis, massive neutrophil infiltration and large non-perfused areas, as well as remote lung inflammation. In the liver, these effects were significantly abrogated after ATP metabolism by apyrase or P2X receptors blockage, but none of the treatments prevented remote lung inflammation, suggesting a confined local contribution of purinergic signaling into liver environment. In vitro, APAP administration to primary mouse hepatocytes and also HepG2 cells caused cell death in a dose-dependent manner. Interestingly, exposure of HepG2 cells to APAP elicited significant release of ATP to the supernatant in levels that were high enough to promote direct cytotoxicity to healthy primary hepatocytes or HepG2 cells. In agreement to our in vivo results, apyrase treatment or blockage of P2 receptors reduced APAP cytotoxicity. Likewise, ATP exposure caused significant higher intracellular Ca2+ signal in APAP-treated primary hepatocytes, which was reproduced in HepG2 cells. Quantitative real time PCR showed that APAP-challenged HepG2 cells expressed higher levels of several purinergic receptors, which may explain the hypersensitivity to extracellular ATP. This phenotype was confirmed in humans analyzing liver biopsies from patients diagnosed with acute hepatic failure.

Conclusion

We suggest that under pathological conditions, ATP may act not only an immune system activator, but also as a paracrine direct cytotoxic DAMP through the dysregulation of Ca2+ homeostasis.
Protocol: optimising hydroponic growth systems for nutritional and physiological analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana and other plants
Authors: Conn Simon J , Hocking Bradleigh , Dayod Maclin , Xu Bo , Athman Asmini , Henderson Sam , Aukett Lucy , Conn Vanessa , Shearer Monique K , Fuentes Sigfredo , Tyerman Stephen D , Gilliham Matthew
Published: February 2013

Background

Hydroponic growth systems are a convenient platform for studying whole plant physiology. However, we found through trialling systems as they are described in the literature that our experiments were frequently confounded by factors that affected plant growth, including algal contamination and hypoxia. We also found the way in which the plants were grown made them poorly amenable to a number of common physiological assays.

Results

The drivers for the development of this hydroponic system were: 1) the exclusion of light from the growth solution; 2) to simplify the handling of individual plants, and 3) the growth of the plant to allow easy implementation of multiple assays. These aims were all met by the use of pierced lids of black microcentrifuge tubes. Seed was germinated on a lid filled with an agar-containing germination media immersed in the same solution. Following germination, the liquid growth media was exchanged with the experimental solution, and after 14-21 days seedlings were transferred to larger tanks with aerated solution where they remained until experimentation. We provide details of the protocol including composition of the basal growth solution, and separate solutions with altered calcium, magnesium, potassium or sodium supply whilst maintaining the activity of the majority of other ions. We demonstrate the adaptability of this system for: gas exchange measurement on single leaves and whole plants; qRT-PCR to probe the transcriptional response of roots or shoots to altered nutrient composition in the growth solution (we demonstrate this using high and low calcium supply); producing highly competent mesophyll protoplasts; and, accelerating the screening of Arabidopsis transformants. This system is also ideal for manipulating plants for micropipette techniques such as electrophysiology or SiCSA.

Conclusions

We present an optimised plant hydroponic culture system that can be quickly and cheaply constructed, and produces plants with similar growth kinetics to soil-grown plants, but with the advantage of being a versatile platform for a myriad of physiological and molecular biological measurements on all plant tissues at all developmental stages. We present ‘tips and tricks’ for the easy adoption of this hydroponic culture system.
Comparison of the dipeptidyl peptidase-4 gene methylation levels between severely obese subjects with and without the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Turcot Valérie , Tchernof André , Deshaies Yves , Pérusse Louis , Bélisle Alexandre , Marceau Picard , Hould Frédéric-Simon , Lebel Stéfane , Vohl Marie-Claude
Published: February 2013

Background

The dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP4) enzyme is a novel adipokine potentially involved in the development of the metabolic syndrome (MetS). Previous observations demonstrated higher visceral adipose tissue (VAT) DPP4 gene expression in non-diabetic severely obese men with (MetS+) vs. without (MetS−) MetS. DPP4 mRNA abundance in VAT correlated also with CpG site methylation levels (%Meth) localized within and near its exon 2 (CpG94 to CpG102) in non-diabetic severely obese women, regardless of their MetS status. The actual study tested whether DPP4 %Meth levels in VAT are different between MetS− and MetS+ non-diabetic severely obese subjects, whether variable metabolic and plasma lipid profiles are observed between DPP4 %Meth quartiles, and whether correlation exists in DPP4 %Meth levels between VAT and white blood cells (WBCs).

Methods

DNA was extracted from the VAT of 26 men (MetS−: n=12, MetS+: n=14) and 79 women (MetS−: n=60; MetS+: n=19), as well as from WBCs in a sub-sample of 17 women (MetS−: n=9; MetS+: n=8). The %Meth levels of CpG94 to CpG102 were assessed by pyrosequencing of sodium bisulfite-treated DNA. ANOVA analyses were used to compare the %Meth of CpGs between MetS− and MetS+ groups, and to compare the metabolic phenotype and plasma lipid levels between methylation quartiles. Pearson correlation coefficient analyses were computed to test the relationship between VAT and WBCs CpG94-102 %Meth levels.

Results

No difference was observed in CpG94-102 %Meth levels between MetS− and MetS+ subjects in VAT (P=0.67), but individuals categorized into CpG94-102 %Meth quartiles had variable plasma total-cholesterol concentrations (P=0.04). The %Meth levels of four CpGs in VAT were significantly correlated with those observed in WBCs (r=0.55−0.59, P≤0.03).

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that %Meth of CpGs localized within and near the exon 2 of the DPP4 gene in VAT are not associated with MetS status. The actual study also revealed an association between the %Meth of this locus with plasma total-cholesterol in severe obesity, which suggests a link between the DPP4 gene and plasma lipid levels.
Expiratory time constant for determinations of plateau pressure, respiratory system compliance, and total resistance
Authors: Al-Rawas Nawar , Banner Michael J , Euliano Neil R , Tams Carl G , Brown Jeff , Martin A Daniel , Gabrielli Andrea
Published: February 2013

Introduction

We hypothesized the expiratory time constant (ƬE) may be used to provide real time determinations of inspiratory plateau pressure (Pplt), respiratory system compliance (Crs), and total resistance (respiratory system resistance plus series resistance of endotracheal tube) (Rtot) of patients with respiratory failure using various modes of ventilatory support.

Methods

Adults (n = 92) with acute respiratory failure were categorized into four groups depending on the mode of ventilatory support ordered by attending physicians, i.e., volume controlled-continuous mandatory ventilation (VC-CMV), volume controlled-synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation (VC-SIMV), volume control plus (VC+), and pressure support ventilation (PSV). Positive end expiratory pressure as ordered was combined with all aforementioned modes. Pplt, determined by the traditional end inspiratory pause (EIP) method, was combined in equations to determine Crs and Rtot. Following that, the ƬE method was employed, ƬE was estimated from point-by-point measurements of exhaled tidal volume and flow rate, it was then combined in equations to determine Pplt, Crs, and Rtot. Both methods were compared using regression analysis.

Results

ƬE, ranging from mean values of 0.54 sec to 0.66 sec, was not significantly different among ventilatory modes. The ƬE method was an excellent predictor of Pplt, Crs, and Rtot for various ventilatory modes; r2 values for the relationships of ƬE and EIP methods ranged from 0.94 to 0.99 for Pplt, 0.90 to 0.99 for Crs, and 0.88 to 0.94 for Rtot (P <0.001). Bias and precision values were negligible.

Conclusions

We found the ƬE method was just as good as the EIP method for determining Pplt, Crs, and Rtot for various modes of ventilatory support for patients with acute respiratory failure. It is unclear if the ƬE method can be generalized to patients with chronic obstructive lung disease. ƬE is determined during passive deflation of the lungs without the need for changing the ventilatory mode and disrupting a patient's breathing. The ƬE method obviates the need to apply an EIP, allows for continuous and automatic surveillance of inspiratory Pplt so it can be maintained ≤ 30 cm H2O for lung protection and patient safety, and permits real time assessments of pulmonary mechanics.
Evaluation of early mini-bronchoalveolar lavage in the diagnosis of health care-associated pneumonia: a prospective study
Authors: Lacroix Guillaume , Prunet Bertrand , Bordes Julien , Cabon-Asencio Nathalie , Asencio Yves , Gaillard Tiphaine , Pons Sandrine , D'aranda Erwan , Kerebel Delphine , Meaudre Eric , Goutorbe Philippe
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Health care-associated pneumonia (HCAP) has been proposed as a new category of respiratory infection to identify patients at risk of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. The American Thoracic Society's recommendation for HCAP treatment is to use broad-spectrum and multiple antibiotics. However, this strategy may be economically expensive and promote antimicrobial resistance when a multisensitive pathogen is not identified.

Methods

We prospectively included all patients presenting with HCAP in the emergency department. Blood cultures and fiberoptic bronchoscope-guided distal protected small volume bronchoalveolar lavage (FODP mini-BAL) were performed in each patient. Empirical antibiotic therapy was adapted when microbiological findings were available. The primary objective was to assess whether FODP mini-BAL is more efficient than blood cultures in identifying pathogens with the ratio of identification between both techniques as principal criteria.

Results

We included 54 patients with HCAP. Pathogens were identified in 46.3% of cases using mini-BAL and in 11.1% of cases using blood cultures (P <0.01). When the patient did not receive antibiotic therapy before the procedure, pathogens were identified in 72.6% of cases using mini-BAL and in 9.5% of cases using blood cultures (P <0.01). We noted multidrug-resistant pathogens in 16% of cases. All bronchoscopic procedures could be performed in patients without complications.

Conclusions

FODP mini-BAL was more efficient than blood cultures for identifying pathogens in patients presenting with HCAP. When bacteriological identification was obtained, antibiotic therapy was adapted in 100% of cases.

See related letter by Sircar et al.,http://ccforum.com/content/17/2/428
Seismic characterization of reservoirs with asymmetric fractures
Authors: Far Mehdi E. , Thomsen Leon , Sayers Colin M.
Published: February 2013

Variations of reflection amplitude with offset and azimuth are sensitive to the presence of natural and induced fractures. We tested inversion for fracture compliance matrix components from wide azimuth noisy synthetic PP-reflection data. The model was a fractured reservoir with monoclinic symmetry, formed by two sets of vertical asymmetric fractures embedded in a VTI background. The fractures (joints) were assumed to be vertical, with noncircular shape and/or with asymmetric shear compliance. Results of synthetic inversion showed that an incorrect assumption about fracture shear symmetry (e.g., treating asymmetric fractures as rotationally invariant fractures) can cause considerable error in estimation of the fracture compliance matrix. Components of effective second- and fourth-rank fracture compliance matrices for a medium with monoclinic symmetry (which takes into account layering and multiple fracture sets) can be used as attributes related to the characteristics of the fractured medium. Monte Carlo simulation was used to test the effect of uncertainties in the a priori information (about background VTI parameters of unfractured rock), as they affect inversion for these attributes. According to this analysis, the direction of fast shear-wave polarization was inverted robustly in the Monte Carlo simulation. Although the average values of the components of fracture compliance matrices obtained from Monte Carlo simulation were in agreement with the actual values used for forward modeling, individual values obtained in Monte Carlo simulation were sensitive to uncertainties in the background properties in general. Because the elastic properties of background VTI media without fractures (or other azimuthally variable features) do not cause azimuthal changes in reflection coefficient variation with offset, simultaneous inversion for background properties and fracture tensor components require additional constraints.
Wheeler-transformed 2D seismic data yield fan chronostratigraphy of offshore Tanzania
Authors: McDonough Katie-Joe , Bouanga Eric , Pierard Claire , Horn Brian , Emmet Pete , Gross Jon , Danforth Al , Sterne Ned , Granath Jim
Published: February 2013

Recent discoveries offshore Tanzania and Mozambique highlight East Africa as an emerging world-class pet-roleum province. Oil and gas estimates for this province total 12.5 BBO and 250 TCFG (Brownfield et al., 2012) as yet undiscovered. Play-opening reservoir systems have been verified in Paleocene, Eocene, and at least two Oligocene deep-water submarine fan and intraslope channel complexes (Law, 2011). In deep-water Tanzania, there have been seven gas discoveries (of eight attempts) since 2010, with recent announcements putting total gas reserves in Tanzania at 24–26 TCFG. In neighboring Mozambique, 19 wells were completed by Anadarko and ENI in the Ruvuma Basin from 2009 to June 2012, only two of which were not announced as commercial discoveries. With the additional drilling, the increase of reported reserves now approaches or exceeds 100 TCFG. Evidence continues to mount that suggests the Late Cretaceous section contains deposits from similar depositional settings (Tanzania Petroleum Development Corporation, 2003). There are also indications that the petroleum system may contain oil as well as the established gas.
Female Reproductive Health After Childhood, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancers: Guidelines for the Assessment and Management of Female Reproductive Complications
Authors: Metzger Monika L. , Meacham Lillian R. , Patterson Briana , Casillas Jacqueline S. , Constine Louis S. , Hijiya Nobuko , Kenney Lisa B. , Leonard Marcia , Lockart Barbara A. , Likes Wendy , Green Daniel M.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

As more young female patients with cancer survive their primary disease, concerns about reproductive health related to primary therapy gain relevance. Cancer therapy can often affect reproductive organs, leading to impaired pubertal development, hormonal regulation, fertility, and sexual function, affecting quality of life.

Methods

The Children's Oncology Group Long-Term Follow-Up Guidelines for Survivors of Childhood, Adolescent, and Young Adult Cancer (COG-LTFU Guidelines) are evidence-based recommendations for screening and management of late effects of therapeutic exposures. The guidelines are updated every 2 years by a multidisciplinary panel based on current literature review and expert consensus.

Results

This review summarizes the current task force recommendations for the assessment and management of female reproductive complications after treatment for childhood, adolescent, and young adult cancers. Experimental pretreatment as well as post-treatment fertility preservation strategies, including barriers and ethical considerations, which are not included in the COG-LTFU Guidelines, are also discussed.

Conclusion

Ongoing research will continue to inform COG-LTFU Guideline recommendations for follow-up care of female survivors of childhood cancer to improve their health and quality of life.
Carbon Markets 15 Years after Kyoto: Lessons Learned, New Challenges
Authors: Newell Richard G , Pizer William A , Raimi Daniel
Published: February 2013

Carbon markets are substantial and they are expanding. There are many lessons from market experiences over the past eight years: there should be fewer free allowances, better management of market-sensitive information, and a recognition that trading systems require adjustments that have consequences for market participants and market confidence. Moreover, the emerging market architecture features separate emissions trading systems serving distinct jurisdictions and a variety of other types of policies exist alongside the carbon markets. This situation is in sharp contrast to the top-down, integrated global trading architecture envisioned 15 years ago by the designers of the Kyoto Protocol and raises a suite of new questions. In this new architecture, jurisdictions with emissions trading have to decide how, whether, and when to link with one another. Stakeholders and policymakers must confront how to measure the comparability of efforts among markets as well as relative to a variety of other policy approaches. International negotiators must in turn work out a global agreement that can accommodate and support increasingly bottom-up approaches to carbon markets and climate change mitigation.
Moving Pollution Trading from Air to Water: Potential, Problems, and Prognosis
Authors: Fisher-Vanden Karen , Olmstead Sheila
Published: February 2013

This paper seeks to assess the current status of water quality trading and to identify possible problems and solutions. Water pollution permit trading programs have rarely been comprehensively described and analyzed in the peer-reviewed literature. Including active programs and completed or otherwise inactive programs, we identify approximately three dozen initiatives. We describe six criteria for successful pollution trading programs and consider how these apply to standard water quality problems, as compared to air quality. We then highlight some important issues to be resolved if current water quality trading programs are to function as the “leading edge” of a new frontier in cost-effective pollution permit trading in the United States.