bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rapid malaria appraisal in the Venezuelan Amazon
Authors: Metzger Wolfram G , Giron Anibal M , Vivas-Martínez Sarai , González Julio , Charrasco Antonio J , Mordmüller Benjamin G , Magris Magda
Published: December 2009

Background

While the federal state of Amazonas bears the highest risk for malaria in Venezuela (2007: 68.4 cases/1000 inhabitants), little comprehensive information about the malaria situation is available from this area. The purpose of this rapid malaria appraisal (RMA) was to provide baseline data about malaria and malaria control in Amazonas.

Methods

The RMA methodology corresponds to a rapid health impact assessment (HIA) as described in the 1999 Gothenburg consensus. In conjunction with the actors of the malaria surveillance system, all useful data and information, which were accessible within a limited time-frame of five visits to Amazonas, were collected, analysed and interpreted.

Results

Mortality from malaria is low (< 1 in 105) and slide positivity rates have stayed at the same level for the last two decades (15% ± 6% (SD)). Active case detection accounts for ca. 40% of slides taken. The coverage of the censured population with malaria notification points (NPs) has been achieved in recent years. The main parasite isPlasmodium vivax(84% of cases). The proportion ofPlasmodium falciparumis on the decline, possibly driven by the introduction of cost-free artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) (1988: 33.4%; 2007: 15.4%). Monitoring and documentation is complete, systematic and consistent, but poorly digitalized. Malaria transmission displayed a visible lag behind rainfall in the capital municipality of Atures, but not in the other municipalities. In comparison to reference microscopy, quality of field microscopy and rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) is suboptimal (kappa < 0.75). Hot spots of malaria risk were seen in some indigenous ethnic groups. Conflicting strategies in respect of training of community health workers (CHW) and the introduction of new diagnostic tools (RDTs) were observed.

Conclusion

Malaria control is possible, even in tropical rain forest areas, if the health system is working adequately. Interventions have to be carefully designed and the features of the particular local Latin American context considered.
Atrial fibrillation detection by heart rate variability in Poincare plot
Authors: Park Jinho , Lee Sangwook , Jeon Moongu
Published: December 2009

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is one of the prominent causes of stroke, and its risk increases with age. We need to detect AFib correctly as early as possible to avoid medical disaster because it is likely to proceed into a more serious form in short time. If we can make a portable AFib monitoring system, it will be helpful to many old people because we cannot predict when a patient will have a spasm of AFib.

Methods

We analyzed heart beat variability from inter-beat intervals obtained by a wavelet-based detector. We made a Poincare plot using the inter-beat intervals. By analyzing the plot, we extracted three feature measures characterizing AFib and non-AFib: the number of clusters, mean stepping increment of inter-beat intervals, and dispersion of the points around a diagonal line in the plot. We divided distribution of the number of clusters into two and calculated mean value of the lower part by k-means clustering method. We classified data whose number of clusters is more than one and less than this mean value as non-AFib data. In the other case, we tried to discriminate AFib from non-AFib using support vector machine with the other feature measures: the mean stepping increment and dispersion of the points in the Poincare plot.

Results

We found that Poincare plot from non-AFib data showed some pattern, while the plot from AFib data showed irregularly irregular shape. In case of non-AFib data, the definite pattern in the plot manifested itself with some limited number of clusters or closely packed one cluster. In case of AFib data, the number of clusters in the plot was one or too many. We evaluated the accuracy using leave-one-out cross-validation. Mean sensitivity and mean specificity were 91.4% and 92.9% respectively.

Conclusions

Because pulse beats of ventricles are less likely to be influenced by baseline wandering and noise, we used the inter-beat intervals to diagnose AFib. We visually displayed regularity of the inter-beat intervals by way of Poincare plot. We tried to design an automated algorithm which did not require any human intervention and any specific threshold, and could be installed in a portable AFib monitoring system.
Promoter methylation of IGFBP-3 and p53 expression in ovarian endometrioid carcinoma
Authors: Torng Pao-Ling , Lin Ching-Wei , Chan Michael WY , Yang Hui-Wen , Huang Su-Cheng , Lin Chin-Tarng
Published: December 2009

Background

Insulin-like growth factor binding protein (IGFBP-3) is an antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic and invasion suppressor protein which is transcriptionally regulated by p53. Promoter methylation has been linked to gene silencing and cancer progression. We studied the correlation between IGFBP-3 and p53 expression as well as IGFBP-3 promoter methylation in ovarian endometrioid carcinoma (OEC) by immunohistochemical staining and quantitative methylation-specific PCR (qMSP). Additionally, we assessed the molecular regulatory mechanism of wild type (wt) p53 on IGFBP-3 expression using two subclones of OEC, the OVTW59-P0 (low invasive) and P4 (high invasive) sublines.

Results

In 60 cases of OEC, 40.0% showed lower IGFBP-3 expression which was significantly correlated with higher IGFBP-3 promoter methylation. p53 overexpression was detected in 35.0% of OEC and was unrelated to clinical outcomes and IGFBP-3. By Kaplan-Meier analysis, patients with lower IGFBP-3, higher IGFBP-3 promoter methylation, and normal p53 were associated most significantly with lower survival rates. In OEC cell line, IGFBP-3 expression was correlated with IGFBP-3 promoter methylation. IGFBP-3 expression was restored after treatment with a DNA methy-transferase inhibitors (5-aza-deoxycytidine) and suppressed by a p53 inhibitor (pifithrin-α). The putative p53 regulatory sites on the promoter of IGFBP-3 were identified at -210, -206, -183 and -179 bases upstream of the transcription start site. Directed mutagenesis at these sites quantitatively reduced the transcription activity of IGFBP-3.

Conclusion

Our data suggests that IGFBP-3 silencing through IGFBP-3 promoter methylation in the absence of p53 overexpression is associated with cancer progression. These results support a potential role of IGFBP-3 methylation in the carcinogenesis of OEC.
Identification of a biomarker panel using a multiplex proximity ligation assay improves accuracy of pancreatic cancer diagnosis
Authors: Chang Stephanie T , Zahn Jacob M , Horecka Joe , Kunz Pamela L , Ford James M , Fisher George A , Le Quynh T , Chang Daniel T , Ji Hanlee , Koong Albert C
Published: December 2009

Background

Pancreatic cancer continues to prove difficult to clinically diagnose. Multiple simultaneous measurements of plasma biomarkers can increase sensitivity and selectivity of diagnosis. Proximity ligation assay (PLA) is a highly sensitive technique for multiplex detection of biomarkers in plasma with little or no interfering background signal.

Methods

We examined the plasma levels of 21 biomarkers in a clinically defined cohort of 52 locally advanced (Stage II/III) pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cases and 43 age-matched controls using a multiplex proximity ligation assay. The optimal biomarker panel for diagnosis was computed using a combination of the PAM algorithm and logistic regression modeling. Biomarkers that were significantly prognostic for survival in combination were determined using univariate and multivariate Cox survival models.

Results

Three markers, CA19-9, OPN and CHI3L1, measured in multiplex were found to have superior sensitivity for pancreatic cancer vs. CA19-9 alone (93% vs. 80%). In addition, we identified two markers, CEA and CA125, that when measured simultaneously have prognostic significance for survival for this clinical stage of pancreatic cancer (p< 0.003).

Conclusions

A multiplex panel assaying CA19-9, OPN and CHI3L1 in plasma improves accuracy of pancreatic cancer diagnosis. A panel assaying CEA and CA125 in plasma can predict survival for this clinical cohort of pancreatic cancer patients.
Methylprednisolone inhibits IFN-γ and IL-17 expression and production by cells infiltrating central nervous system in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Miljković Željka , Momčilović Miljana , Miljković Djordje , Mostarica-Stojković Marija
Published: December 2009

Background

Glucocorticoids have been shown to be effective in the treatment of autoimmune diseases of the CNS such as multiple sclerosis and its animal model, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, the mechanisms and the site of glucocorticoids' actions are still not completely defined. The aim of this study was to investigate the in vivo effect of the synthetic glucocorticoid methylprednisolone (MP) on the expression and production of proinflammatory cytokines interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-17 by cells infiltrating CNS tissue.

Methods

Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis was induced in Dark Agouti (DA) rats by immunization with rat spinal cord homogenate mixed with adjuvants. Commencing on the day when the first EAE signs appeared, DA rats were injected daily for 3 days with MP and/or RU486, an antagonist of glucocorticoid receptor. Cytokine production and gene expression in CNS-infiltrating cells and lymph node cells were measured using ELISA and real time PCR, respectively.

Results

Treatment of rats with MP ameliorated EAE, and the animals recovered without relapses. Further, MP inhibited IFN-γ and IL-17 expression and production in cells isolated from the CNS of DA rats with EAE after the last injection of MP. The observed effect of MP in vivo treatment was not mediated through depletion of CD4+ T cells among CNS infiltrating cells, or through induction of their apoptosis within the CNS. Finally, the glucocorticoid receptor-antagonist RU486 prevented the inhibitory effect of MP on IFN-γ and IL-17 production both in vitro and in vivo, thus indicating that the observed effects of MP were mediated through glucocorticoid receptor-dependent mechanisms.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results demonstrate that amelioration of EAE by exogenous glucocorticoids might be, at least partly, ascribed to the limitation of effector cell functions in the target tissue.
Molecular approaches to the analysis of deformed wing virus replication and pathogenesis in the honey bee, Apis mellifera
Authors: Boncristiani Humberto F , Di Prisco Gennaro , Pettis Jeffery S , Hamilton Michele , Chen Yan Ping
Published: December 2009

Background

For years, the understanding of the pathogenetic mechanisms that underlie honey bee viral diseases has been severely hindered because of the lack of a cell culture system for virus propagation. As a result, it is very imperative to develop new methods that would permit the in vitro pathogenesis study of honey bee viruses. The identification of virus replication is an important step towards the understanding of the pathogenesis process of viruses in their respective hosts. In the present study, we developed a strand-specific RT-PCR-based method for analysis of Deformed Wing Virus (DWV) replication in honey bees and in honey bee parasitic mites, Varroa Destructor.

Results

The results shows that the method developed in our study allows reliable identification of the virus replication and solves the problem of falsely-primed cDNA amplifications that commonly exists in the current system. Using TaqMan real-time quantitative RT-PCR incorporated with biotinylated primers and magnetic beads purification step, we characterized the replication and tissue tropism of DWV infection in honey bees. We provide evidence for DWV replication in the tissues of wings, head, thorax, legs, hemolymph, and gut of honey bees and also in Varroa mites.

Conclusion

The strategy reported in the present study forms a model system for studying bee virus replication, pathogenesis and immunity. This study should be a significant contribution to the goal of achieving a better understanding of virus pathogenesis in honey bees and to the design of appropriate control measures for bee populations at risk to virus infections.
Postembryonic development of transit amplifying neuroblast lineages in the Drosophila brain
Authors: Izergina Natalya , Balmer Jasmin , Bello Bruno , Reichert Heinrich
Published: December 2009

Background

Specific dorsomedial (DM) neuroblast lineages of the Drosophila brain amplify their proliferation through generation of transit amplifying intermediate progenitor cells. Together, these DM neuroblast lineages comprise over 5,000 adult-specific neural cells and thus represent a substantial part of the brain. However, no information is currently available about the structure or function of any of the neural cells in these DM lineages. In this report we use MARCM-based clonal analysis together with immunocytochemical labeling techniques to investigate the type and fate of neural cells generated in the DM lineages.

Results

Genetic cell lineage-tracing and immunocytochemical marker analysis reveal that DM neuroblasts are multipotent progenitors that produce a set of postembryonic brain glia as well as a large number of adult-specific protocerebral neurons. During larval development the adult-specific neurons of each DM lineage form several spatially separated axonal fascicles, some of which project along larval brain commissural structures that are primordia of midline neuropile. By taking advantage of a specific Gal4 reporter line, the DM-derived neuronal cells can be identified and followed into early pupal stages. During pupal development the neurons of the DM lineages arborize in many parts of the brain and contribute to neuropile substructures of the developing central complex, such as the fan-shaped body, noduli and protocerebral bridge.

Conclusions

Our findings provide cellular and molecular evidence for the fact that DM neuroblasts are multipotent progenitors; thus, they represent the first identified progenitor cells in the fly brain that have neuroglioblast functions during postembryonic development. Moreover, our results demonstrate that the adult-specific neurons of the DM lineages arborize widely in the brain and also make a major contribution to the developing central complex. These findings suggest that the amplification of proliferation that characterizes DM lineages may be an important requirement for generating the large number of neurons required in highly complex neuropile structures such as the central complex in the Drosophila brain.
HIV prevention is not enough: child survival in the context of prevention of mother to child HIV transmission
Authors: Kuhn Louise , Sinkala Moses , Thea Don M , Kankasa Chipepo , Aldrovandi Grace M
Published: December 2009

Clinical and epidemiologic research has identified increasingly effective interventions to reduce mother to child HIV transmission in resource‐limited settings These scientific breakthroughs have been implemented in some programmes, although much remains to be done to improve coverage and quality of these programmes. But prevention of HIV transmission is not enough. It is necessary also to consider ways to improve maternal health and protect child survival.

A win‐win approach is to ensure that all pregnant and lactating women with CD4 counts of <350 cells/mm3 have access to antiretroviral therapy. On its own, this approach will substantially improve maternal health and markedly reduce mother to child HIV transmission during pregnancy and delivery and through breastfeeding. This approach can be combined with additional interventions for women with higher CD4 counts, either extended prophylaxis to infants or extended regimens of antiretroviral drugs to women, to reduce transmission even further.

Attempts to encourage women to abstain from all breastfeeding or to shorten the optimal duration of breastfeeding have led to increases in mortality among both uninfected and infected children. A better approach is to support breastfeeding while strengthening programmes to provide antiretroviral therapy for pregnant and lactating women who need it and offering antiretroviral drug interventions through the duration of breastfeeding. This will lead to reduced HIV transmission and will protect the health of women without compromising the health and well‐being of infants and young children.
Differential heat shock protein localization in chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Dempsey Nina C , Leoni Francesca , Ireland H Elyse , Hoyle Christine , Williams John H H
Published: December 2009

Levels of Hsp90 and Hsp27 in CLL patients correlate with stage of disease or apoptosis, while Hsp72 in serum is affected by corticosteroid treatment.

Mechanisms behind carcinogenesis and resistance of tumor cells to treatment regimes remain elusive. The major stress proteins Hsp72, Hsp90, and Hsp27 are credible candidates to provide this resistance, as their overexpression in many cancer types is well documented. In addition to being present inside tumor cells, where they confer resistance to apoptosis, Hsp72, in particular, is presented externally, embedded in the cell membrane of cancer cells. This study aimed to investigate the localization of Hsp72, Hsp90, and Hsp27 in leukocytes from patients with CLL and age-matched control subjects. CLL patients were found to express significantly higher levels of iHsp90 (CLL=2463 MFI; control=748 MFI) and iHsp27 (CLL=2190 MFI; control=1031 MFI) in lymphocytes than that expressed by lymphocytes from control subjects. Furthermore, expression of iHsp90 was shown to be related to stage of disease, and expression of iHsp27 correlated with levels of active caspase-3. Patients were found to express very high levels or very low levels of sHsp72 and iHsp72 in CD5+/CD19+ cells, although surface and intracellular datasets did not correlate. Levels of extracellular Hsp72 circulating in the serum were found to correlate with internal levels of Hsp72 and were also found to be significantly lower in patients receiving corticosteroid treatment than in patients not receiving corticosteroid treatment. Finally, analysis of the number of circulating Tregs revealed significantly elevated numbers in CLL patients compared with control subjects.
Hybrid optimization for lithologic inversion and time-lapse monitoring using a binary formulation
Authors: Krahenbuhl Richard A. , Li Yaoguo
Published: December 2009

We have developed a hybrid optimization algorithm for binary inversion of geophysical data associated with lithologic inversion and time-lapse monitoring. The binary condition is designed to invert geophysical data for well-defined physical properties within discrete lithologic units, such as a salt body within a sedimentary host, or temporal changes in physical property associated with dynamic processes, such as the density and conductivity change in an oil and gas reservoir or groundwater aquifer. The solution of such inverse problems with discrete model values requires specialized optimization algorithms. To meet this need, we develop a hybrid optimization algorithm by combining a genetic algorithm with quenched simulated annealing. The former allows for easy incorporation of prior geologic information and rapid buildup of large-scale model features, whereas the latter guides genetic algorithm to faster evolution by rapidly adjusting the finer model features. In examining the performance of the hybrid algorithm, we note its superior performance. Our investigations of the algorithm’s capability with a 3D gravity inversion for the SEG/EAGE salt model and a time-lapse gravity data set from an aquifer storage and recovery process reveal its benefits.
Surface area assessment of the murine intestinal tract as a prerequisite for oral dose translation from mouse to man
Authors: Casteleyn C , Rekecki A , Van Der Aa A , Simoens P , Van Den Broeck W
Published: December 2009

In many pharmacological and toxicological studies knowledge about the intestinal absorption, which is dependent upon the surface area of absorptive epithelia, is indispensible. Although mice are often used in such preclinical studies, very few quantitative data about their intestinal surface area are available. Especially for locally acting candidate drugs in development, this information is crucial for dose translation towards humans. Therefore, the surface area of the intestinal tract of CD-1™ IGS mice was assessed in the present study. The intestinal tracts of 12 mice were collected after euthanasia. From six animals, histological sections from the duodenum, jejunum, ileum, caecum and colon-rectum were made according to common stereological principles. Using these sections, the volumes and surface areas of each intestinal segment were estimated applying stereological counting procedures. In the other six animals, the density and surface area of the microvilli present in each intestinal segment were determined by means of scanning and transmission electron microscopy to assess the increase of the intestinal surface area attributable to the presence of microvilli. The mean total volume and surface area of the intestinal tract were 1.34 cm3 and 1.41 m2, respectively. The relative intestinal surface area (intestinal surface area divided by the body surface area) was 119. The relative intestinal surface area of mice is very similar to that of humans. The results of this study are important for the appropriate dose translation of candidate therapeutic compounds in drug development from mouse to humans.
Planning the Location of Stop Smoking Services at the Local Level: A Geographic Analysis
Authors: Tomintz Melanie N. , Clarke Graham P. , Rigby Janette E.
Published: December 2009

Smoking is one of the major causes of premature death and its negative effects on a person's health are a global issue. Therefore, the United Kingdom has introduced new policies aimed at reducing the proportion of smokers from 26% in 2005 down to 21% by 2010. One mechanism to meet this policy target is the provision of stop smoking services. This article aims to estimate the Leeds smoking population at the small area level and especially to highlight the distribution of hard-to-reach groups such as heavy smokers (> 20 cigarettes/day) and pregnant women who smoke. Then optimal location strategies are discussed in relation to stop smoking services. The findings show the importance of adding a spatial component to find out where the smoking population or specific subgroups of smokers are to support policymakers or healthcare planners who are responsible for the planning process of the services.
Development and Evaluation of a Physician-Led Smoking Cessation Intervention for Low-Income Chinese Americans
Authors: Kwong Kenny , Ferketich Amy K. , Wewers Mary Ellen , Shek Amy , Tsang Thomas , Tso Alan
Published: December 2009

This article describes a culturally and linguistically relevant, physician-led smoking cessation intervention that was delivered to the Chinese American community in New York City. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 115 participants (94% male) at a clinical site of a community health centre. The smoking intervention program included pharmacological treatments and brief cessation counselling, education and support by the physician and the health educator. Process data included the drop-out rate, number of visits completed and use of pharmacotherapy. Outcome data included self-reported and biochemically verified (expired carbon monoxide) smoking status at week 12. In the process evaluation, valuable information about the components of interventions that worked well and challenges participants faced during their quit attempts was gathered from participants, doctors and the health educator. Sixteen participants (13.9%) successfully quit smoking. Chinese male smokers face many daunting challenges that prevent them from regularly attending a smoking cessation program. Despite these challenges, they appeared to benefit from brief interventions, although the cessation rate was modest at best. This information should be incorporated into future design of smoking cessation programs to address required behavioural change in this population.
Bedouin Youth in Israel: Gender-Related Smoking and Non-Smoking Attitudes and Behaviour
Authors: Isralowitz Richard , Reznik Alexander , Sussman Steven
Published: December 2009

The Bedouin are Muslim Arabs who have inhabited the Negev desert region of Israel under nomadic and seminomadic conditions for centuries. Today, the majority are living in urban settings with high levels of unemployment, poverty, and problem behaviour. Limited research exists of Bedouin youth, specifically their smoking attitudes and behaviour. This study examined 293 male and female high school-age youth with the WHO-CDC Global Youth Tobacco Survey instrument. Chi square and regression analyses were performed. Parent smoking behaviour, smoking if offered a cigarette, likelihood of smoking during the next 12 months and 5 years, and smoking behaviour among friends are significant factors that influence smoking regardless of gender status. Regression analysis shows cigarette use is influenced by gender status, parent(s) smoking behaviour, smoking behaviour among friends, being offered a cigarette by a friend, and the perception of males who smoke as being a positive social image. Smoking is a public health problem and cessation interventions are needed for Bedouin youth. Additional research with practical implications should focus on the high rate of tobacco use among males, the relation between psychosocial factors and smoking behaviour in urban and rural settings and the impact of formal education and community-based activities on smoking prevention and cessation.
Quality of End-of-Life Care Between Medical Oncologists and Other Physician Specialists for Taiwanese Cancer Decedents, 2001–2006
Authors: Liu Tsang-Wu , Chen Jen-Shi , Wang Hung-Ming , Wu Shiao-Chi , Hung Yen-Ni , Tang Siew Tzuh
Published: December 2009

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Assess indicators for poor quality end-of-life cancer care in the last month of life.Compare the differing perspectives of physicians of various specialties regarding palliative chemotherapy and the use of life-sustaining treatments for terminally ill cancer patients.Evaluate the benefits and detriments of administering chemotherapy close to death.

This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Background.

Oncologists play a significant role in cancer care throughout the cancer trajectory and have traditionally emphasized underuse of procedures/treatments with well-established effectiveness as the source of poor care quality with little attention to overusing end-of-life (EOL) care. The purpose of this population-based study was to compare the quality of EOL care between medical oncologists and other physician specialists.

Methods.

This retrospective cohort study compared indicators of poor quality EOL care by examining administrative data for 204,850 Taiwanese cancer decedents in 2001–2006.

Results.

Taiwanese cancer patients whose primary physician was a medical oncologist were significantly more likely than patients of other physician specialists to receive chemotherapy and to spend >14 days in a hospital in the last month of life. However, they were significantly less likely than patients of other physician specialists to visit the emergency room (ER) more than once and to use intensive care unit (ICU) care, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), intubation, and mechanical ventilation in the last month of life.

Conclusion.

The quality of EOL cancer care in Taiwan varied significantly by physician specialty. Cancer decedents cared for by medical oncologists were more likely to receive chemotherapy and prolonged hospitalization but less likely to have multiple ER visits, ICU care, or undergo CPR, intubation, or mechanical ventilation in the last month of life than patients of other physician specialists.
Putting Insulin Glargine and Malignancies into Perspective
Authors: Ehninger Gerhard , Schmidt Alexander H.
Published: December 2009

This paper examines publications on the risk for cancer of patients with type 2 diabetes and the use of insulin glargine.
Mysterious Metformin
Authors: Chong Curtis R. , Chabner Bruce A.
Published: December 2009

The article examines the effects of metformin in both diabetes and cancer.
Determination of Phenolic Content of Cassia sophera Linn. and the Potential Antiulcer Activity in Experimentally Induced Ulceration
Authors: Nagore Dheeraj H
Published: December 2009

Cassia sophera is a medicinally important plant belonging to the family Caesalpiniaceae. It is being used in the ailments of oxidative stress. Cassia sophera was successively extracted with chloroform (CSE1), ethyl acetate (CSE2), methanol (CSE3) and water (CSE4). Extracts demonstrated the presence of anthraquinones and flavonoids. Amongst all of the extracts, CSE2 exhibited highest total phenolic content (250.54 mg/gm) as well as antiulcer potential using ethanol, pyloric ligation, hypothermic restrain stress and indomethacin-induced ulceration. Cassia sophera presented protection against ulceration, which may be because of both cytoprotective and antisecretary mechanisms. The phenolic content could be responsible for the gastro protective activity of CS.
Decentralization of Development and Nation-Building Today: Reconstructing Colombia from the Margins of Bogotá
Authors: Eslava Luis
Published: December 2009

Responding to an international trend that regards the state as an oversized, unsustainable and uneven jurisdiction that cannot effectively intervene in the economy to promote development objectives, nor impose a proper presence over its territory and population, the reform of the Colombian Constitution in 1991 installed local development as one of the primary strategies to recuperate the nation-building project in Colombia. Bogotá has greatly benefited from the introduction of this normative framework: within the spatial limits of its jurisdiction, Bogotá has been able to achieve a remarkable level of community engagement, measured urban growth and financial stability, as well as high per capita levels of education, health and public utility provision. However, the successful decentralization of state activity in Bogotá has implied an intensification of the systemic violence that traditionally accompanies nation-building projects. Through practices of classification, demarcation and disciplining of space and subjects, Bogotá has used a cartography of legal and illegal urban spaces in order to circumscribe its developmental target. Reflecting upon the contradictions that arise from the encounter between the weaknesses of Colombia's sovereignty and Bogotá's successful development, this paper examines the relationship between development and sovereign consolidation through the multiplication of levels of governance and the creation of increasingly smaller, more accountable sub-national jurisdictions in Third World states.
Immunological Mechanism of the Low-Dose Radiation-Induced Suppression of Cancer Metastases in a Mouse Model
Authors: Nowosielska Ewa M. , Cheda Aneta , Wrembel-Wargocka Jolanta , Janiak Marek K.
Published: December 2009

According to the doctrine underlying the current radiation protection regulations each, no matter how small, exposure to ionizing radiation may be carcinogenic. However, numerous epidemiological observations demonstrate that cancer incidence and/or mortality are not elevated among inhabitants of the high- versus low-natural-background radiation areas and homes. Results of our own and other authors’ studies described in this paper bear testimony to the possibility that stimulation of the anti-neoplastic immune surveillance mediated by NK lymphocytes and activated macrophages explains, at least partially, the accumulating epidemiological and experimental evidence indicating that low-level exposures to the low-linear energy transfer (LET) radiation inhibit the development of spontaneous and artificial metastases in humans and laboratory animals, respectively. The results presented also suggest the possibility of using low-level X- and gamma-ray exposures to cure cancer and to prevent cancer metastases. For a broader perspective, the results presented may help towards relaxing the current radiation protection regulations, especially as they apply to diagnostic and therapeutic exposures of patients to the indicated forms of radiation.
Creating a Different Kind of Normal: Parent and Child Perspectives on Sibling Relationships When One Child in the Family Has Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Bachraz Vijetta , Grace Rebekah
Published: December 2009

This article reports findings from a study that explored the nature of sibling relationships when one child in the family has autism. It employs a collective case study approach to capture the perspectives of parents and young children (aged four to seven years) from three different families. A multifaceted exploration of sibling relationships was achieved by employing qualitative methods including in-depth interviews with parents and children and naturalistic observations. Family systems theory and ecocultural theory provided the theoretical backdrop to this research. The results support previous research which points to issues such as differential treatment of siblings and the development of a non-typical relationship with the sibling with autism. Where this study diverges is in its interpretation of these findings. This article challenges the subjective nature of the concept of ‘normalcy’ which pervades the dominant discourse in disability research. It seeks to understand the resilience and processes of families as they set about creating their own kind of normal.
The Heteroglossic World of Preschoolers' Pretend Play
Authors: Cohen Lynn E.
Published: December 2009

This inquiry applied Bakhtin's dialogic process to the pretend play of preschool children using an interpretive approach. It used vignettes from videotaped data and Bakhtin's theories of dialogism and heteroglossia to provide an understanding of how children appropriate social roles and rules in pretend play and use a variety of ‘voices' in role enactment. The study also demonstrates how role enactment contributes to the development of children's ideological self; and how the relation between the self and social/cultural contexts, a perennial issue in the social sciences, is evident within preschool children's pretend play. When applying Bakhtin's dialogic theory to pretend play, three facets became evident. First, children appropriated and assimilated others' words in play. Second, children engaged in a heteroglossic world as they employed different ways of talking to enact play roles. Third, children engaged in a struggle between an authoritative voice and internally persuasive discourse.
Girls' Doll Play in Educational, Virtual, Ideological and Market Contexts: A Case Analysis of Controversy
Authors: Reifel Stuart
Published: December 2009

The purpose of this study was to explore an example of girls' doll play in contemporary US culture, including its virtual, political, marketing, and other contextual meanings. The narrative that provoked the analysis was a brief news report about a controversial school function — a school fund-raiser fashion show featuring American Girl doll costumes. The show was cancelled when advocacy groups asserted connections between American Girl dolls and pro-abortion, pro-lesbian groups. The textual analysis of this case found complicated interconnections between the education and the culture and politics of doll play, Web support for that culture, the role of merchandizing related to doll play, assumptions about the relationship of play to schooling, morality, and Web communications that seem to enable communities with diverse perspectives on girls and their doll play. The evolution of play's meanings for child development appears to be complicated by connections to the Web, politics ascribed to toys and toy manufacturers, and the web of connections between toys and the larger economic context.
Researching with Families: Ethical Issues and Situations
Authors: Dockett Sue , Perry Bob , Kearney Emma , Hampshire Anne , Mason Jan , Schmied Virginia
Published: December 2009

This article draws on an Australian project engaging with families with complex support needs as their children start school. The project itself is focused on developing collaborative research relationships between families, community support agencies and researchers with the aim of investigating what happens for families during the transition to school. In particular, the project has focused on developing strategies that promote recognition of family strengths, as well as challenges, and that support a positive start to school education. This article reports a range of ethical issues and situations encountered throughout the project. The aim of reporting these is to share some of the critical reflections about the assumptions underpinning the research, ethical engagement with research participants, and the responsibilities researchers have. In particular, the authors share reflections about the nature and implications of conducting research with families, accessing research participants and strategies for engaging with research participants. The approach taken in the project, and this article, reflects assumptions about research as an ethical process and the need for researchers to consider the ethical issues and situations they meet within research contexts.
Intellectual Integrity: Examining Common Rituals in Early Childhood Curriculum
Authors: Freeman Ramona , Swim Terri Jo
Published: December 2009

This article examines two constructs — ritual and intellectual integrity — as they might unfold in early childhood settings. The authors use the popular practices of closed-ended crafts, calendar exercises, and worksheets to highlight the difference between learning experiences that have become formulaic habits and those that reflect rich and potent opportunities for children's thinking, imagining, and reflecting. The authors then analyze the calendar ritual and suggest ways to modify these experiences to indicate intellectual integrity and curricular depth that early childhood educators can offer to children.
Storying with Technology: An Approach to Connect Children and Adults Using the New Technology and Media Landscape
Authors: Cruz Felicity M.F. , Snider Sharla L.
Published: December 2009

As our technology-rich society absorbs the impact of fast-paced technology evolution, we face a desperate situation: a widening digital divide, especially the intergenerational divide between adults and children. The proposed ‘Storying with Technology’ approach presents a structure to guide adults while engaging with children in meaningful activity surrounding technology. The purpose of the approach is to promote connection and reconnection, meaning making, and the development of multiple literacies. Because of the presence of evolving technology, both children and adults must deal with a fluid identity, relationship, culture, and society. Storying with Technology is an approach that guides individuals through activity to maintain relationships with the self, with the other, and with the object.
Intergenerational Beliefs of Mothers and Grandmothers regarding Early Childhood Stimulation in (Rural) Jammu, India
Authors: Sharma Neeru , Sapru Ruchira , Mahajan Ruchi
Published: December 2009

The present research was conducted to study the intergenerational differences in parental beliefs of the Lobana community in the rural district of Jammu in the Jammu and Kashmir state of India. The sample comprised 30 mothers and 30 grandmothers, selected from the R.S. Pura tehsil of the Jammu district. Data was collected using a modified parental belief survey. The results reveal that the majority of the mothers were educated and had studied to the higher secondary level, while the majority of the grandmothers were illiterate. The mothers' and grandmothers' views reported from the modified parental belief survey demonstrate a varied perception between the two groups. There was a difference between views expressed about spoiling a child, floor freedom, and discipline and control. The importance of storytelling was emphasised by the grandmothers.
A Possible Inflammatory Role of Twist1 in Human White Adipocytes
Authors: Pettersson Amanda T. , Laurencikiene Jurga , Mejhert Niklas , Näslund Erik , Bouloumié Anne , Dahlman Ingrid , Arner Peter , Rydén Mikael
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

Twist1 is a transcription factor that is highly expressed in murine brown and white adipose tissue (WAT) and negatively regulates fatty acid oxidation in mice. The role of twist1 in WAT is not known and was therefore examined.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The expression of twist1 was determined by quantitative real-time PCR in different tissues and in different cell types within adipose tissue. The effect of twist1 small interfering RNA on fatty acid oxidation, lipolysis, adipokine secretion, and mRNA expression was determined in human adipocytes. The interaction between twist1 and specific promoters in human adipocytes was investigated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and reporter assays.

RESULTS

Twist1 was highly expressed in human WAT compared with a set of other tissues and found predominantly in adipocytes. Twist1 levels increased during in vitro differentiation of human preadipocytes. Gene silencing of twist1 in human white adipocytes had no effect on lipolysis or glucose transport. Unexpectedly, and in contrast with results in mice, twist1 RNA interference reduced fatty acid oxidation. Furthermore, the expression and secretion of the inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 were downregulated by twist1 silencing. ChIP and reporter assays confirmed twist1 interaction with the promoters of these genes.

CONCLUSIONS

Twist1 may play a role in inflammation of human WAT because it can regulate the expression and secretion of inflammatory adipokines via direct transcriptional effects in white adipocytes. Furthermore, twist1 may, in contrast to findings in mice, be a positive regulator of fatty acid oxidation in human white adipocytes.
Is There a Link Between Components of Health-Related Functioning and Incident Impaired Glucose Metabolism and Type 2 Diabetes?
Authors: Tapp Robyn J. , O'Neil Adrienne , Shaw Jonathan E. , Zimmet Paul Z. , Oldenburg Brian F. ,   on behalf of the AusDiab Study Group
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

To determine the longitudinal association of components of health-related functioning (HRF) with incident impaired glucose metabolism and type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The Australian Diabetes Obesity and Lifestyle (AusDiab) study is a national, longitudinal study of adults aged ≥25 years from 42 randomly selected areas of Australia. Diabetes status was defined using the World Health Organization criteria, and HRF was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire in 1999–2000 and 2004–2005.

RESULTS

Incident impaired fasting glucose (IFG), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT), and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes were associated with increased bodily pain at baseline compared with those with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) (IFG P = 0.005, IGT P < 0.004, and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes P = 0.005), after adjustment. In addition, those with incident IGT and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes had significantly reduced physical functioning, general health, mental health, and vitality at baseline compared with those with NGT. After we controlled for factors associated with incident diabetes, those in the lowest quartile of the physical component summary scale at baseline had at least a 50% higher risk of progression to impaired glucose metabolism and diabetes 5 years later.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings show that incident IFG, IGT, and newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes are associated with reduced HRF independent of cardiovascular disease and that this is evident before the onset of these conditions. If future health promotion campaigns are to effectively target those at high risk of developing diabetes, an understanding of the process of declining health before onset of the disease is essential.
Minimal Contribution of Fasting Hyperglycemia to the Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes in Subjects With Normal 2-h Plasma Glucose
Authors: Abdul-Ghani Muhammad A. , Stern Michael P. , Lyssenko Valeriya , Tuomi Tiinamaija , Groop Leif , DeFronzo Ralph A.
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

To assess the relative contribution of increased fasting and postload plasma glucose concentrations to the incidence of type 2 diabetes in subjects with a normal 2-h plasma glucose concentration.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 3,450 subjects with 2-h plasma glucose concentration <140 mg/dl at baseline were followed up in the San Antonio Heart Study (SAHS) and the Botnia Study for 7–8 years. The incidence of type 2 diabetes at follow-up was related to the fasting, 1-h, and 2-h plasma glucose concentrations.

RESULTS

In subjects with 2-h plasma glucose <140 mg/dl, the incidence of type 2 diabetes increased with increasing fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and 1-h and 2-h plasma glucose concentrations. In a multivariate logistic analysis, after adjustment for all diabetes risk factors, the FPG concentration was a strong predictor of type 2 diabetes in both the SAHS and the Botnia Study (P < 0.0001). However, when the 1-h plasma glucose, but not 2-h plasma glucose, concentration was added to the model, FPG concentration was no longer a significant predictor of type 2 diabetes in both studies (NS). When subjects were matched for the level of 1-h plasma glucose concentration, the incidence of type 2 diabetes markedly increased with the increase in 1-h plasma glucose, but the increase in FPG was not associated with a significant increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

An increase in postload glycemia in the normal range is associated with an increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes. After controlling for 1-h plasma glucose concentration, the increase in FPG concentration is not associated with an increase in the incidence of type 2 diabetes.
Pediatric Endocrinologists' Management of Children With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Wong Kam , Potter Amy , Mulvaney Shelagh , Russell William E. , Schlundt David G. , Rothman Russell L.
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

To understand physician behaviors and attitudes in managing children with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A survey was mailed to a nationwide sample of pediatric endocrinologists (PEs).

RESULTS

A total of 40% of PEs surveyed responded (211 of 527). Concordance with current monitoring guidelines varied widely, ranging from 36% (foot care) to 93% (blood pressure monitoring). Given clinical vignettes addressing hyperlipidemia, hypertension, and microalbuminuria, only 34% of PEs were fully concordant with current treatment guidelines. Reported barriers included concerns about patient adherence, insufficient scientific evidence about treatment, and lack of familiarity with current recommendations. Providers aged ≤45 years or in clinical practice <10 years reported significantly more aggressive management behaviors and had higher concordance with guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

Screening and management of pediatric type 2 diabetes varied widely among PEs, suggesting opportunities for quality improvement. More aggressive management of type 2 diabetes among younger providers may be related to recent training when type 2 diabetes was more common.