bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Forgiveness an Outcome or Initiator of Sociocognitive Processes? Rumination, Empathy, and Cognitive Appraisals Following a Transgression
Authors: Wenzel Michael , Turner Jasmin K. , Okimoto Tyler G.
Published: August 2010

Forgiveness is often understood as the outcome of sociocognitive processes including appraisals of transgression severity and offender responsibility, rumination, and empathy for the offender. Alternatively, forgiveness may be understood as the initiator of such sociocognitive processes; a decision, intuition, or act that elicits reappraisals, reduces ruminative thought, and leads to a repositioning to the offender. The authors tested these two causal directions in a three-wave longitudinal study capturing participants' ( N = 112) thoughts and feelings in the first 3 days immediately following an interpersonal transgression. Latent growth modeling showed that initial forgiveness significantly predicted an increase in empathy and a decrease in perceived severity over time. Conversely, initial rumination significantly predicted a change in forgiveness; interestingly, counter to conventional theoretical views, rumination facilitated an increase in forgiveness over time. The findings indicate that, in the dynamic period following a transgression, forgiveness plays an active role and initiates sociocognitive changes in victims.
Review: Testosterone therapy for reduced libido in women
Authors: Basson Rosemary
Published: August 2010

Modest benefit has been shown from transdermal testosterone therapy given to postmenopausal women with reduced sexual desire. An increased frequency of satisfying sexual encounters and intensity of sexual desire and response has been shown in medically and psychiatrically healthy women able to have 2—3 satisfying sexual experiences each month before therapy commences. Women more clearly sexually dysfunctional in keeping with currently proposed definitions of sexual disorder have not been studied. Numerous factors are known to influence women’s sexual desire with mood and feelings towards the partner showing the most robust associations. How to identify women whose low desire might stem from low testosterone activity remains unknown: neither serum levels of testosterone nor its metabolites correlate with desire or function. Production of androgens in the brain, sensitivity of the androgen receptors, and activity of cofactors are all potentially relevant confounds. The long-term safety of systemic testosterone with or without estrogen is unknown but necessary as women’s sexual lives tend to endure as long as there is an active partner.
A microsatellite-based analysis for the detection of selection on BTA1 and BTA20 in northern Eurasian cattle (Bos taurus) populations
Authors: Li Meng-Hua , Iso-Touru Terhi , Laurén Hannele , Kantanen Juha
Published: August 2010

Background

Microsatellites surrounding functionally important candidate genes or quantitative trait loci have received attention as proxy measures of polymorphism level at the candidate loci themselves. In cattle, selection for economically important traits is a long-term strategy and it has been reported that microsatellites are linked to these important loci.

Methods

We have investigated the variation of seven microsatellites on BTA1 (Bos taurus autosome 1) and 16 on BTA20, using bovine populations of typical production types and horn status in northern Eurasia. Genetic variability of these loci and linkage disequilibrium among these loci were compared with those of 28 microsatellites on other bovine chromosomes. Four different tests were applied to detect molecular signatures of selection.

Results

No marked difference in locus variability was found between microsatellites on BTA1, BTA20 and the other chromosomes in terms of different diversity indices. Average D' values of pairwise syntenic markers (0.32 and 0.28 across BTA 1 and BTA20 respectively) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than for non-syntenic markers (0.15). The Ewens-Watterson test, the Beaumont and Nichol's modified frequentist test and the Bayesian F
ST-test indicated elevated or decreased genetic differentiation, at SOD1 and AGLA17 markers respectively, deviating significantly (P < 0.05) from neutral expectations. Furthermore, lnRV, lnRH and lnRθ' statistics were used for the pairwise population comparison tests and were significantly less variable in one population relative to the other, providing additional evidence of selection signatures for two of the 51 loci. Moreover, the three Finnish native populations showed evidence of subpopulation divergence at SOD1 and AGLA17. Our data also indicate significant intergenic linkage disequilibrium around the candidate loci and suggest that hitchhiking selection has played a role in shaping the pattern of observed linkage disequilibrium.

Conclusion

Hitchhiking due to tight linkage with alleles at candidate genes, e.g. the POLL gene, is a possible explanation for this pattern. The potential impact of selective breeding by man on cattle populations is discussed in the context of selection effects. Our results also suggest that a practical approach to detect loci under selection is to simultaneously apply multiple neutrality tests based on different assumptions and estimations.
Health improvement and prevention study (HIPS) - evaluation of an intervention to prevent vascular disease in general practice
Authors: Fanaian Mahnaz , Laws Rachel A , Passey Megan , McKenzie Suzanne , Wan Qing , Davies Gawaine Powell , Lyle David , Harris Mark F
Published: August 2010

Background

The Health Improvement and Prevention Study (HIPS) study aims to evaluate the capacity of general practice to identify patients at high risk for developing vascular disease and to reduce their risk of vascular disease and diabetes through behavioural interventions delivered in general practice and by the local primary care organization.

Methods/Design

HIPS is a stratified randomized controlled trial involving 30 general practices in NSW, Australia. Practices are randomly allocated to an 'intervention' or 'control' group. General practitioners (GPs) and practice nurses (PNs) are offered training in lifestyle counselling and motivational interviewing as well as practice visits and patient educational resources. Patients enrolled in the trial present for a health check in which the GP and PN provide brief lifestyle counselling based on the 5As model (ask, assess, advise, assist, and arrange) and refer high risk patients to a diet education and physical activity program. The program consists of two individual visits with a dietician or exercise physiologist and four group sessions, after which patients are followed up by the GP or PN. In each practice 160 eligible patients aged between 40 and 64 years are invited to participate in the study, with the expectation that 40 will be eligible and willing to participate. Evaluation data collection consists of (1) a practice questionnaire, (2) GP and PN questionnaires to assess preventive care attitudes and practices, (3) patient questionnaire to assess self-reported lifestyle behaviours and readiness to change, (4) physical assessment including weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and blood pressure, (5) a fasting blood test for glucose and lipids, (6) a clinical record audit, and (7) qualitative data collection. All measures are collected at baseline and 12 months except the patient questionnaire which is also collected at 6 months. Study outcomes before and after the intervention is compared between intervention and control groups after adjusting for baseline differences and clustering at the level of the practice.

Discussion

This study will provide evidence of the effectiveness of a primary care intervention to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes in general practice patients. It will inform current policies and programs designed to prevent these conditions in Australian primary health care.

Trial Registration

ACTRN12607000423415
Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review
Authors: Shin Byung-Cheul , Lee Myeong Soo , Yang Eun Jin , Lim Hyun-Suk , Ernst Edzard
Published: August 2010

Background

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is an Andean plant of the brassica (mustard) family. Preparations from maca root have been reported to improve sexual function. The aim of this review was to assess the clinical evidence for or against the effectiveness of the maca plant as a treatment for sexual dysfunction.

Methods

We searched 17 databases from their inception to April 2010 and included all randomised clinical trials (RCTs) of any type of maca compared to a placebo for the treatment of healthy people or human patients with sexual dysfunction. The risk of bias for each study was assessed using Cochrane criteria, and statistical pooling of data was performed where possible. The selection of studies, data extraction, and validations were performed independently by two authors. Discrepancies were resolved through discussion by the two authors.

Results

Four RCTs met all the inclusion criteria. Two RCTs suggested a significant positive effect of maca on sexual dysfunction or sexual desire in healthy menopausal women or healthy adult men, respectively, while the other RCT failed to show any effects in healthy cyclists. The further RCT assessed the effects of maca in patients with erectile dysfunction using the International Index of Erectile Dysfunction-5 and showed significant effects.

Conclusion

The results of our systematic review provide limited evidence for the effectiveness of maca in improving sexual function. However, the total number of trials, the total sample size, and the average methodological quality of the primary studies were too limited to draw firm conclusions. More rigorous studies are warranted.
Chromosome 9p21.3 polymorphism in a Chinese Han population is associated with angiographic coronary plaque progression in non-diabetic but not in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Wang Wei , Peng Wenhui , Zhang Xianling , Lu Lin , Zhang Ruiyan , Zhang Qi , Wang Lingjie , Chen Qiujing , Shen Weifeng
Published: August 2010

Background

We sought to explore the association of variant rs1333049 on chromosome 9p21.3 with coronary artery disease (CAD) and angiographic plaque progression in non-diabetic and type 2 diabetic patients.

Methods

Genotyping and quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) were performed in 2046 Chinese Han patients (1012 diabetic cases) undergoing coronary angiography; 430 of them received repeat angiographic studies at 1-year follow-up.

Results

CC genotype at rs1333049 on chromosome 9p21.3 was associated with CAD (unadjusted OR 1.524, p = 0.001 and adjusted OR 1.859, p = 0.005, respectively). However, CC genotype had no magnified association with CAD in diabetic patients (OR 1.275, p = 0.150) compared with non-diabetic counterparts (OR 1.446, p = 0.020) after adjusting for conventional risk factors. During angiographic follow-up, non-diabetic patients (n = 280) had significant decrease in minimal lumen diameter and increase in percent diameter stenosis among the three genotypes (p = 0.005 and p = 0.038, respectively), demonstrating that CC or GC genotype carriers had a more severe plaque progression than GG genotype carriers. In patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 150), although plaque progression was more severe than that in non-diabetic counterparts, no relations existed between plaque progression and genotypes. Rs1333049 was an independent determinant of plaque progression for non-diabetic (OR 3.468, p = 0.004 and OR 4.339, p = 0.002 for GC and CC genotype, respectively) but not for diabetic patients (OR 0.529, p = 0.077 and 0R 0.878, p = 0.644 for GC and CC genotype, respectively).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates a significant association of homozygous CC genotype of rs1333049 on chromosome 9p21.3 with CAD in Chinese Han population. Rs1333049 polymorphism is an independent determinant for coronary plaque progression in non-diabetic but not in type 2 diabetic patients.
124I-HuCC49deltaCH2 for TAG-72 antigen-directed positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of LS174T colon adenocarcinoma tumor implants in xenograft mice: preliminary results
Authors: Zou Peng , Povoski Stephen P , Hall Nathan C , Carlton Michelle M , Hinkle George H , Xu Ronald X , Mojzisik Cathy M , Johnson Morgan A , Knopp Michael V , Martin Edward W , Sun Duxin
Published: August 2010

Background

18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG-PET) is widely used in diagnostic cancer imaging. However, the use of 18F-FDG in PET-based imaging is limited by its specificity and sensitivity. In contrast, anti-TAG (tumor associated glycoprotein)-72 monoclonal antibodies are highly specific for binding to a variety of adenocarcinomas, including colorectal cancer. The aim of this preliminary study was to evaluate a complimentary determining region (CDR)-grafted humanized CH2-domain-deleted anti-TAG-72 monoclonal antibody (HuCC49deltaCH2), radiolabeled with iodine-124 (124I), as an antigen-directed and cancer-specific targeting agent for PET-based imaging.

Methods

HuCC49deltaCH2 was radiolabeled with 124I. Subcutaneous tumor implants of LS174T colon adenocarcinoma cells, which express TAG-72 antigen, were grown on athymic Nu/Nu nude mice as the xenograft model. Intravascular (i.v.) and intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of 124I-HuCC49deltaCH2 was then evaluated in this xenograft mouse model at various time points from approximately 1 hour to 24 hours after injection using microPET imaging. This was compared to i.v. injection of 18F-FDG in the same xenograft mouse model using microPET imaging at 50 minutes after injection.

Results

At approximately 1 hour after i.v. injection, 124I-HuCC49deltaCH2 was distributed within the systemic circulation, while at approximately 1 hour after i.p. injection, 124I-HuCC49deltaCH2 was distributed within the peritoneal cavity. At time points from 18 hours to 24 hours after i.v. and i.p. injection, 124I-HuCC49deltaCH2 demonstrated a significantly increased level of specific localization to LS174T tumor implants (p = 0.001) when compared to the 1 hour images. In contrast, approximately 50 minutes after i.v. injection, 18F-FDG failed to demonstrate any increased level of specific localization to a LS174T tumor implant, but showed the propensity toward more nonspecific uptake within the heart, Harderian glands of the bony orbits of the eyes, brown fat of the posterior neck, kidneys, and bladder.

Conclusions

On microPET imaging, 124I-HuCC49deltaCH2 demonstrates an increased level of specific localization to tumor implants of LS174T colon adenocarcinoma cells in the xenograft mouse model on delayed imaging, while 18F-FDG failed to demonstrate this. The antigen-directed and cancer-specific 124I-radiolabled anti-TAG-72 monoclonal antibody conjugate, 124I-HuCC49deltaCH2, holds future potential for use in human clinical trials for preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative PET-based imaging strategies, including fused-modality PET-based imaging platforms.
Impact of Central and Peripheral TRPV1 and ROS Levels on Proinflammatory Mediators and Nociceptive Behavior
Authors: Westlund Karin N , Kochukov Mikhail Y , Lu Ying , McNearney Terry A
Published: August 2010

Background:

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channels are important membrane sensors on peripheral nerve endings and on supportive non-neuronal synoviocytes in the knee joint. TRPV 1 ion channels respond with activation of calcium and sodium fluxes to pH, thermal, chemical, osmotic, mechanical and other stimuli abundant in inflamed joints. In the present study, the kaolin/carrageenan (k/c) induced knee joint arthritis model in rats, as well as primary and clonal human synoviocyte cultures were used to understand the reciprocal interactions between reactive nitroxidative species (ROS) and functional TRPV1 channels. ROS generation was monitored with ROS sensitive dyes using live cell imaging in vitro and in spinal tissue histology, as well as with measurement of ROS metabolites in culture media using HPLC.

Results:

Functional responses in the experimental arthritis model, including increased nociceptive responses (thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia), knee joint temperature reflecting local blood flow, and spinal cord ROS elevations were reduced by the ROS scavenger PBN after intraperitoneal pretreatment. Increases in TRPV1 and ROS, generated by synoviocytes in vitro, were reciprocally blocked by TRPV1 antagonists and the ROS scavenger. Further evidence is presented that synoviocyte responses to ROS and TRPV1 activation include increases in TNFα and COX-2, both measured as an indicator of the inflammation in vitro.

Conclusions:

The results demonstrate that contributions of ROS to pronociceptive responses and neurogenic inflammation are mediated both centrally and peripherally. Responses are mediated by TRPV1 locally in the knee joint by synoviocytes, as well as by ROS-induced sensitization in the spinal cord. These findings and those of others reported in the literature indicate reciprocal interactions between TRPV1 and ROS play critical roles in the pathological and nociceptive responses active during arthritic inflammation.
High throughput generation of promoter reporter (GFP) transgenic lines of low expressing genes in Arabidopsis and analysis of their expression patterns
Authors: Xiao Yong-Li , Redman Julia C , Monaghan Erin L , Zhuang Jun , Underwood Beverly A , Moskal William A , Wang Wei , Wu Hank C , Town Christopher D
Published: August 2010

Background

Although the complete genome sequence and annotation of Arabidopsis were released at the end of year 2000, it is still a great challenge to understand the function of each gene in the Arabidopsis genome. One way to understand the function of genes on a genome-wide scale is expression profiling by microarrays. However, the expression level of many genes in Arabidopsis genome cannot be detected by microarray experiments. In addition, there are many more novel genes that have been discovered by experiments or predicted by new gene prediction programs. Another way to understand the function of individual genes is to investigate their in vivo expression patterns by reporter constructs in transgenic plants which can provide basic information on the patterns of gene expression.

Results

A high throughput pipeline was developed to generate promoter-reporter (GFP) transgenic lines for Arabidopsis genes expressed at very low levels and to examine their expression patterns in vivo. The promoter region from a total of 627 non- or low-expressed genes in Arabidopsis based on Arabidopsis annotation release 5 were amplified and cloned into a Gateway vector. A total of 353 promoter-reporter (GFP) constructs were successfully transferred into Agrobacterium (GV3101) by triparental mating and subsequently used for Arabidopsis transformation. Kanamycin-resistant transgenic lines were obtained from 266 constructs and among them positive GFP expression was detected from 150 constructs. Of these 150 constructs, multiple transgenic lines exhibiting consistent expression patterns were obtained for 112 constructs. A total 81 different regions of expression were discovered during our screening of positive transgenic plants and assigned Plant Ontology (PO) codes.

Conclusions

Many of the genes tested for which expression data were lacking previously are indeed expressed in Arabidopsis during the developmental stages screened. More importantly, our study provides plant researchers with another resource of gene expression information in Arabidopsis. The results of this study are captured in a MySQL database and can be searched at http://www.jcvi.org/arabidopsis/qpcr/index.shtml. Transgenic seeds and constructs are also available for the research community.
Evaluating diabetes and hypertension disease causality using mouse phenotypes
Authors: Yu Hong , Huang Jialiang , Qiao Nan , Green Christopher D , Han Jing-Dong J
Published: August 2010

Background

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have found hundreds of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with common diseases. However, it is largely unknown what genes linked with the SNPs actually implicate disease causality. A definitive proof for disease causality can be demonstration of disease-like phenotypes through genetic perturbation of the genes or alleles, which is obviously a daunting task for complex diseases where only mammalian models can be used.

Results

Here we tapped the rich resource of mouse phenotype data and developed a method to quantify the probability that a gene perturbation causes the phenotypes of a disease. Using type II diabetes (T2D) and hypertension (HT) as study cases, we found that the genes, when perturbed, having high probability to cause T2D and HT phenotypes tend to be hubs in the interactome networks and are enriched for signaling pathways regulating metabolism but not metabolic pathways, even though the genes in these metabolic pathways are often the most significantly changed in expression levels in these diseases.

Conclusions

Compared to human genetic disease-based predictions, our mouse phenotype based predictors greatly increased the coverage while keeping a similarly high specificity. The disease phenotype probabilities given by our approach can be used to evaluate the likelihood of disease causality of disease-associated genes and genes surrounding disease-associated SNPs.
Scope of nanotechnology in ovarian cancer therapeutics
Authors: Yallapu Murali M , Jaggi Meena , Chauhan Subhash C
Published: August 2010

This review describes the use of polymer micelle nanotechnology based chemotherapies for ovarian cancer. While various chemotherapeutic agents can be utilized to improve the survival rate of patients with ovarian cancer, their distribution throughout the entire body results in high normal organ toxicity. Polymer micelle nanotechnology aims to improve the therapeutic efficacy of anti-cancer drugs while minimizing the side effects. Herein, different types of polymer micelle technology based nanotherapies such as PLGA, polymerosomes, acid cleavable, thermosensitive, pH sensitive, and cross-linked micelles are introduced and structural differences are explained. Additionally, production methods, stability, sustainability, drug incorporation and drug release profiles of various polymer micelle based nanoformulations are discussed. An important feature of polymer micelle nanotechnology is the small size (10-100 nm) of particles which improves circulation and enables superior accumulation of the therapeutic drugs at the tumor sites. This review provides a comprehensive evaluation of different types of polymer micelles and their implications in ovarian cancer therapeutics.
An acceptability and safety study of the Duet® cervical barrier and gel delivery system in Zimbabwe
Authors: Montgomery Elizabeth T , Woodsong Cynthia , Musara Petina , Cheng Helen , Chipato Tsungai , Moench Thomas R , Spielberg Freya , van der Straten Ariane
Published: August 2010

Background

Adherence problems with coitally dependent, female‐initiated HIV prevention methods have contributed to several trials' failure to establish efficacy. Continuous use of a cervical barrier with once‐daily cleaning and immediate reinsertion may simplify use for women and improve adherence. We assessed the acceptability and safety of precoital and continuous use of the Duet®, a cervical barrier and gel delivery system, in Zimbabwean women.

Methods

Using a two‐arm crossover design with a parallel observation group, we randomized 103 women in a 2:2:1 ratio: (1) to use the Duet continuously for 14 days, followed by a minimum of seven days of washout and then 14 days of precoital use; (2) to use the same Duet regimens in reverse order; or (3) for observation only. Women were aged 18 to 40 years; half were recruited from a pool of previous diaphragm study participants and the other half from the general community. Acceptability and adherence were assessed through an interviewer‐administered questionnaire at each of two follow‐up visits. Safety was monitored through pelvic speculum exams and report of adverse events.

Results

The proportion of women who reported consistent Duet use during sex was virtually identical during continuous and precoital regimens (88.6% vs. 88.9%). Partner refusal was the most common reason cited for non‐use during sex in both use regimens. Not having the device handy was the most common reason cited for non‐daily use (in the continuous regimen). Most women were “very comfortable” using it continuously (86.3%) and inserting it precoitally (92.8%). The most favoured Duet attribute was that it did not interfere with “natural” sex (55%). The least favoured Duet attribute was the concern that it might come out during sex (71.3%). No serious adverse events were reported during the study; 57 participants reported 90 adverse events classified as mild or moderate. There were no statistically significant differences in: (1) the proportion of women reporting adverse events; (2) the severity of events among those using the Duet and observational controls; or (3) event severity reported during each regimen use period.

Conclusions

In this study, the Duet was found to be acceptable and safe when inserted precoitally or used continuously for 14 days. Assignment to use of the Duet continuously did not increase adherence to the Duet during sex. Future HIV prevention trials should evaluate use of the Duet (precoitally and continuously) with promising microbicide candidates.
The Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein regulates CTL cytotoxicity and is required for efficient killing of B cell lymphoma targets
Authors: De Meester Julie , Calvez Ronan , Valitutti Salvatore , Dupré Loïc
Published: August 2010

CD8+ T cells from Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome patients fail to efficiently kill B cell lymphoma cells in vitro.

WAS is a primary immunodeficiency as a result of mutations in the gene encoding the WASP, a key actin regulator of hematopoietic cells. Whether killing defects in CD8+ CTLs contribute to WAS-associated immunodeficiency and susceptibility to tumor development remains to be explored. CTL lines from WAS patients, generated by repeated stimulation with SAg-loaded B-EBV, displayed reduced production of cytokines (IL-2, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) but almost normal proliferation upon SAg stimulation. Although WAS CTLs killed target B cells in a SAg dose-dependent manner, their efficiency was reduced, especially at a low SAg dose. The cytotoxic efficiency of WAS CTLs was particularly reduced against tumoral B cell lines. WAS CTLs expressed normal levels of lytic molecules and demonstrated efficient exocytosis upon target cell encounter. However, the lytic granules appeared not to fully polarize toward the center of the CTL/tumor target cell contact area. Importantly, the use of a gene therapy lentiviral vector was sufficient to restore efficient cytotoxic activity. Our study suggests that CTL dysfunction contributes to the development of hematological malignancies in WAS patients.
Extracellular ubiquitin: immune modulator and endogenous opponent of damage-associated molecular pattern molecules
Authors: Majetschak Matthias
Published: August 2010

Ubiquitin is a post-translational protein modifier and plays essential roles in all aspects of biology. Although the discovery of ubiquitin introduced this highly conserved protein as a molecule with extracellular actions, the identification of ubiquitin as the ATP-dependent proteolysis factor 1 has focused subsequent research on its important intracellular functions. Little attention has since been paid to its role outside of the cell. During recent years, multiple observations suggest that extracellular ubiquitin can modulate immune responses and that exogenous ubiquitin has therapeutic potential to attenuate exuberant inflammation and organ injury. These observations have not been integrated into a comprehensive assessment of its possible role as an endogenous immune modulator. This review recapitulates the current knowledge about extracellular ubiquitin and discusses an emerging facet of its role in biology during infectious and noninfectious inflammation. The synopsis of these data along with the recent identification of ubiquitin as a CXCR4 agonist suggest that extracellular ubiquitin may have pleiotropic roles in the immune system and functions as an endogenous opponent of DAMPs. Functions of extracellular ubiquitin could constitute an evolutionary conserved control mechanism aimed to balance the immune response and prevent exuberant inflammation. Further characterization of its mechanism of action and cellular signaling pathways is expected to provide novel insights into the regulation of the innate immune response and opportunities for therapeutic interventions.
The Evolving Field of Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in the Treatment of Endocrine Tumors
Authors: Ye Lei , Santarpia Libero , Gagel Robert F.
Published: August 2010

Activation of tyrosine kinase receptors (TKRs) and their related pathways has been associated with development of endocrine tumors. Compounds that target and inactivate the kinase function of these receptors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), are now being applied to the treatment of endocrine tumors. Recent clinical trials of TKIs in patients with advanced thyroid cancer, islet cell carcinoma, and carcinoid have shown promising preliminary results. Significant reductions in tumor size have been described in medullary and papillary thyroid carcinoma, although no complete responses have been reported. Case reports have described significant tumor volume reductions of malignant pheochromocytomas and paragangliomas. In addition, these compounds showed an initial tumoricidal or apoptotic response followed by long-term static effects on tumor growth. Despite the promising preliminary results, this class of therapeutic agents has a broad spectrum of adverse effects, mediated by inhibition of kinase activities in normal tissues. These adverse effects will have to be balanced with their benefit in clinical use. New strategies will have to be applied in clinical research to achieve optimal benefits. In this review, we will address the genetic alterations of TKRs, the rationale for utilizing TKIs for endocrine tumors, and current information on tumor and patient responses to specific TKIs. We will also discuss the adverse effects related to TKI treatment and the mechanisms involved. Finally, we will summarize the challenges associated with use of this class of compounds and potential solutions.
Kallikreins on Steroids: Structure, Function, and Hormonal Regulation of Prostate-Specific Antigen and the Extended Kallikrein Locus
Authors: Lawrence Mitchell G. , Lai John , Clements Judith A.
Published: August 2010

The 15 members of the kallikrein-related serine peptidase (KLK) family have diverse tissue-specific expression profiles and putative proteolytic functions. The kallikrein family is also emerging as a rich source of disease biomarkers with KLK3, commonly known as prostate-specific antigen, being the current serum biomarker for prostate cancer. The kallikrein locus is also notable because it is extraordinarily responsive to steroids and other hormones. Indeed, at least 14 functional hormone response elements have been identified in the kallikrein locus. A more comprehensive understanding of the transcriptional regulation of kallikreins may help the field make more informed hypotheses about the physiological functions of kallikreins and their effectiveness as biomarkers. In this review, we describe the organization of the kallikrein locus and the structure of kallikrein genes and proteins. We also focus on the transcriptional regulation of kallikreins by androgens, progestins, glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, estrogens, and other hormones in animal models and human prostate, breast, and reproductive tract tissues. The interaction of the androgen receptor with androgen response elements in the promoter and enhancer of KLK2 and KLK3 is also summarized in detail. There is evidence that all kallikreins are regulated by multiple nuclear receptors. Yet, apart from KLK2 and KLK3, it is not clear whether all kallikreins are direct transcriptional targets. Therefore, we argue that gaining more detailed information about the mechanisms that regulate kallikrein expression should be a priority of future studies and that the kallikrein locus will continue to be an important model in the era of genome-wide analyses.
Purpura fulminans: a rare presentation of a common disease
Authors: Chaudhary S C , Kumar Vivek , Gupta Abhinav
Published: August 2010

Malaria is a common health problem in India and contributes about 80% of the total cases in South East Asia. Falciparum malaria is known for its various complications, including cerebral malaria, severe anaemia, acute renal failure, acute lung injury, jaundice (and hepatic involvement), hypoglycaemia and circulatory collapse. We hereby report on a young male who was suffering from complicated falciparum malaria, and had purpura fulminans along with laboratory features suggestive of disseminated intravascular coagulation. He was treated with intravenous (IV) artesunate, low molecular weight heparin followed by warfarin in addition to IV fluids to which he showed gradual response. We have presented this case to make others vigilant enough to suspect malaria in differential diagnosis of purpura fulminans.
Young children's understanding of pretend crying: The effect of context
Authors: Mizokawa Ai
Published: August 2010

Reasoning about another's pretend and real crying is related to ma'ny important social cognitive abilities (e.g., emotional understanding, appearance–reality, and theory of mind). This study investigated whether children aged 6 years and younger could distinguish between instances of pretend crying and real crying as presented in stories. Sixty‐five Japanese children aged 4–6 years were given stories within two contexts (Play and Non‐play). In the Play context, the protagonist of the story was pretending to cry or really crying during a pretend play activity. In the Non‐play context, the protagonist was also pretending to cry or really crying after his/her toy had been hidden by another child. The children answered questions about these crying events. The results showed that the 4‐ and 5‐year‐olds showed significantly better understanding of pretend crying in the Play context compared to the Non‐play context. In the Non‐play context, they were significantly less likely to understand the cause of pretend crying compared to the 6‐year‐olds. The results suggest that the context of pretend play facilitates the children's understanding of pretend crying.
Nanocomposite polymer electrolytes prepared by in situ polymerization on the surface of nanoparticles for lithium-ion polymer batteries
Authors: Zhou Ji , Gao Deshu , Li Zhaohui , Lei Gangtie , Zhao Tiepeng , Yi Xiaohua
Published: August 2010

A kind of nanocomposite polymer based on poly(acrylonitrile-methyl methacrylate) [P(AN-MMA)] copolymer was prepared by in situ polymerization of monomers on the surface of TiO2 nanoparticles, which come from the hydrolysis of Ti(OC4H9)4. Analysis of Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) spectra indicated that the acrylonitrile (AN) monomers copolymerized with the methyl methacrylate (MMA) monomers by breaking their own double bonds. The dependence of ionic conductivity on temperature for the resulting nanocomposite polymer electrolyte (NCPE) followed the Arrhenius equation. The ionic conductivity of the NCPE was 1.12 × 10–3 S cm–1 at room temperature when the nanocomposite polymer membrane (NPM) contained 10.8 % of mass fraction of TiO2 nanoparticles.
Inorganically filled carbon nanotubes: Synthesis and properties
Authors: Gautam Ujjal K. , Bando Yoshio , Costa Pedro M. F. J. , Fang Xiaosheng , Dierre Benjamin , Sekiguchi Takashi , Golberg Dmitri
Published: August 2010

Since the discovery of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in 1991, widespread research has been carried out to understand their useful physical and electronic properties and also to explore their use in devices. CNTs have many unique properties such as tunable electrical resistance, mechanical robustness, and high thermal conductivity, which when combined with other inorganic materials such as phosphors or superconductors could lead to hetero-structures with diverse functionality. We have been able to obtain mass production of such materials wherein CNTs form core-shell heterostructures with metals, semiconductors, insulators, and even metal-semiconductor heterojunctions. The emerging strategy employs a high-temperature chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technique and high heating rates. Interestingly, due to their high temperature stability, CNTs can act as a nanoreactor for production of exotic materials inside it. In this article, we take ZnS-filled CNTs as an example to explain our synthesis strategy. We explore the optical behavior of these complex materials, analyzing both their luminescence and degradation upon exposure to an electron beam. In addition, the mechanical response of filled CNTs has been evaluated individually inside a transmission electron microscope fitted with an atomic force microscopy–transmission electron microscopy (AFM–TEM) sample holder. Many applications can be envisioned for these nanostructures ranging from nanothermometers to photo-protective storage and delivery devices.
Highly dispersed platinum nanoparticles on mesoporous materials
Authors: Srinivasu Pavuluri
Published: August 2010

The high surface area and controlled pore size of mesoporous materials made them efficient support for the dispersion of nanoparticles. In particular, highly dispersed Pt-loaded mesoporous materials are interesting systems for nanotechnology and catalysis. The structural, textural, and surface properties of a mesoporous support play a critical role in nano-particle synthesis. This article presents the development of dispersion of nanoparticles on mesoporous supported materials such as MCM-41, SBA-15, KIT-6, and CMK-3 and their properties. Future research trends toward new approaches to designing Pt nanoparticles for electrochemical applications are proposed.
Improved Frequency Equations for Calculating the Young’s Modulus of Bars of Rectangular or Circular Cross Section from Their Flexural Resonant Frequencies
Authors: Bosomworth Paul A.
Published: August 2010

New analyses of the frequency equations relating Young’s modulus to the flexural resonant frequencies of bars of uniform rectangular, square, or circular cross section have expanded the practical slenderness ratio range, over which these equations can be used, while maintaining the precision of the older equations. The original experimental data obtained on steel bars of cylindrical, square, and rectangular cross sections were also used here.
Determining the Slope and Quality of Fit for the Linear Part of a Test Record
Authors: Graham Stephen M. , Adler Matthew A.
Published: August 2010

It is often necessary to determine the slope of a linear region within a test record, and for standardization purposes, it is desirable to have a method for determining the slope that is not subjective. A fully automated algorithm is presented, which is independent of operator judgment for data sets that meet specific quality of data and fit criteria. The algorithm uses analysis of residuals to simulate the visual process of determining the linear region. Analysis of benchmark and real test data provide validation that the algorithm correctly differentiates between problem data (noisy, insufficient digital resolution, or no significant linear range) and good data.
Visualizing Proteins & Their Evolution
Authors: Offner Susan , Pohlman Robert F.
Published: August 2010

We present a tutorial for Cn3D, a molecular visualization program that allows students to see the tertiary structure of a protein and compare it with the primary structure of the same protein (Sayers et al., 2009). Students can also use the program to visualize two major evolutionary mechanisms: duplication and divergence, and exon shuffling.
Upper airway obstruction in patients with endothoracic goiter enlargement: no relationship between flow-volume loops and radiological tests
Authors: Albareda M , Viguera J , Santiveri C , Lozano P , Mestrón A , Bengoa N , Calvet R , Roger A , Pardillo D , Delgado E , Vila Ll
Published: August 2010

Background

In about 16–85% of subjects with goiter, upper airway obstruction (UAO) is observed. This percentage is higher in patients affected by goiter with endothoracic enlargement. UAO is an indication for surgery. Visual analysis of flow-volume loops (FVL) are the best indicators for UAO, although various studies using clinical and radiological parameters have observed no correlation.

Objective

To evaluate the presence of UAO in patients with endothoracic goiter enlargement and the relationship between the FVL with the observed symptoms and the measurements obtained by computed tomography (CT).

Subjects

Subjects with endothoracic goiter enlargement participated in the study.

Design

i) Symptom questionnaire (dysphagia, dyspnea, cough, oppression, dysphonia, and worsened symptoms when prone); ii) analysis: TSH and free thyroxine; iii) cervical ultrasound; iv) cervical-thoracic CT (measurements of area and diameter in the area of maximum stenosis and at 2 cm from the carina); v) chest radiography and vi) forced spirometry: visual analysis of FVL morphology and the maximum forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), forced expiratory flow at 50% vital capacity/forced inspiratory flow at 50% vital capacity and FEV1/peak expiratory flow parameters.

Results

Fifty subjects participated in the study: 11 men/39 women, median age 73.8 years (43.76–88.43). UAO was diagnosed in 13 cases (26%, confidence interval: 14.6–40.3%) and 27 subjects (54%) presented symptoms suggesting goiter compression. No clinical or radiological variables showed the presence of UAO.

Conclusions

The frequency of UAO in subjects affected by goiter with endothoracic enlargement was lower than that described for goiter patients, and there were no clinical or radiological indicators to establish its presence.
Simple Diagnostic Method to Assess the Available Bone for Immediate Implant Placement in an Extracted Socket
Authors: Chowdhary Ramesh , Chandraker Neeraj
Published: August 2010

The success rate of immediate tooth replacement has been well documented in the literature. To achieve long-term success of dental implants, evaluation of the dimensions of the resorbing alveolar process must be accurate because an implant should be surrounded by at least 1 mm of bone. To minimize facial gingival recession, an intact labial bony plate along with an osseous-gingival relationship of 3 mm on the facial aspect of the failing tooth has been suggested. This article mentions a technique wherein the amount of available labial and palatal bone of an extracted socket can be assessed by using the extracted tooth that is to be replaced with an endosseous implant and a ridge mapping procedure without reflecting the flap.
Relationship Between Smoking and Bleeding on Probing
Authors: de Souza João Gustavo Oliveira , Bianchini Marco Aurélio , Ferreira Cimara Fortes
Published: August 2010

The objective of this study was to assess and compare bone loss (BL) around the dental implant platform as well as the presence of bacterial plaque (PBP), bleeding on probing (BOP), and periodontal probing depths (PD) of teeth and dental implants of smokers and nonsmokers. Three hundred forty-seven teeth and 98 implants of 20 randomly selected patients were assessed (12 smokers and 8 nonsmokers). The specimens were divided into 4 groups according to the site probed. Group 1 included smoker implant sites, group 2 included smoker tooth sites, group 3 included nonsmoker implant sites, and group 4 included nonsmoker tooth sites. The presence/absence of visible bacterial plaque, presence/absence of BOP, PD ≤ 3 mm or >3 mm, and BL around the dental implant platform were the data assessed. The PBP and BL showed statistical significance between smokers and nonsmokers. Bleeding on probing and PD ≤ 3 mm showed statistical significance between groups 1, 3, and 4. Comparing sites with BOP and PD > 3 mm, there was no statistical significance except for group 1, which did not present sites with these characteristics. Comparing sites with BOP and PD ≤ 3 mm, there was statistical significance between group 2 and groups 3 and 4. When comparing the prevalence of sites without BOP and PD > 3 mm, there was statistical significance between groups 1, 3, and 4. Smoking promotes a greater BL around the dental implant platform and results in vasoconstriction of the peri-implant and periodontal tissues.
Interactive Immersive Learning in Higher Education
Authors: Mattis Patrick
Published: August 2010

An expanded definition of simulation encompasses patient simulators, avatars, and virtual learning environments. This article explains the elements and advantages of each of these education modalities.
Health Literacy: Understanding Basic Health Information
Authors: Squellati Robin
Published: August 2010

Health literacy is a significant concern for Americans. Understanding health information is vital in addressing issues of access, quality, and affordability. If nurses are not able to teach patients effectively about their conditions and treatments, outcomes will be adversely affected. Providing information in ways that are appropriate for the patient's health literacy level is a step toward decreasing health disparities and increasing patient compliance. Online information can be useful to both nurses and patients.
Best Practices for Webinars
Authors: Guanci Gen
Published: August 2010

Webinars are an increasingly common methodology for delivering education in a fast-paced, rapidly evolving world in which employees are no longer able to gather at one site. Webinars give both the employer and the employee flexibility in the delivery of education. Because of the lack of face-to-face interaction with the participants, the presenter of a webinar is faced with some unique challenges. Thought must be given to each phase of the webinar as well as the instructional design of the presentation. The following is a collection of tips and pointers collected from a wide variety of sources.
The Mediating Effects of Team Efficacy on the Relationship Between a Transactive Memory System and Team Performance
Authors: Liu Bangcheng , Zang Zhi
Published: August 2010

Many researchers have shown that a transactive memory system (TMS) improves a team's performance. However, the relationship between TMS and team performance remains unexplored. In this longitudinal study of team efficacy, with 31 course teams, the results demonstrate that team efficacy
fully mediates TMS and team performance. These findings have implications for improving team performance.
Chinese Employees' Work Values and Turnover Intentions in Multinational Companies: The Mediating Effect of Pay Satisfaction
Authors: Wang Christina Yu-Ping , Chen Mei-Huei , Hyde Bill , Hsieh Lillian
Published: August 2010

In this study the aim was to ascertain the effects of work values on pay satisfaction, organizational commitment, and turnover intention in a Chinese context. Pay satisfaction and work values were employed as determinants of organizational commitment and turnover intention. The mediating
effect of pay satisfaction on work values and turnover intention was also examined. A total of 260 questionnaires were distributed to employees of selected multinational corporations in the semiconductor industry in Shanghai, in the People's Republic of China. The results indicated that pay
satisfaction led to greater organizational commitment and lower turnover intention. Participants also indicated that their work values significantly affect normative commitment and turnover intention through pay satisfaction.