bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Predicting Survival following Noninvasive Ventilation in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Peysson S. , Vandenberghe N. , Philit F. , Vial C. , Petitjean T. , Bouhour F. , Bayle J.Y. , Broussolle E.
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: The involvement of respiratory muscles is a major predicting factor for survival in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Recent studies show that noninvasive ventilation (NIV) can relieve symptoms of alveolar hypoventilation. However, factors predicting survival in ALS patients when treated with NIV need to be clarified. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study of 33 consecutive ALS patients receiving NIV. Ten patients had bulbar onset. We determined the median survivals from onset, diagnosis and initiation of NIV and factors predicting survival. Statistical analysis was performed using the Kaplan-Meier test and Cox proportional hazard models. Results: The median initial and maximal total uses of NIV were 10 and 14 h/24h. The overall median survival from ALS onset was 34.2 months and worsened with increasing age and bulbar onset of the disease. The median survival from initiation of NIV was 8.4 months and was significantly poorer in patients with advanced age or with airway mucus accumulation. Survival from initiation of NIV was not influenced by respiratory parameters or bulbar symptoms. Conclusion: Advanced age at diagnosis and airway mucus accumulation represent poorer prognostic factors of ALS patients treated with NIV. NIV is a helpful treatment of sleep-disordered breathing, including patients with bulbar involvement.
Is Dopamine Agonist Therapy Associated with Developing Pathological Gambling in Parkinson’s Disease Patients?
Authors: Zand Ramin
Published: January 2008

In recent years, improving the quality of life and the level of functioning in Parkinson’s disease patients has become the main challenge of all therapeutic protocols for this chronic disease. Hence, identifying comorbid psychiatric conditions is the ambition of many studies in the field. To date, a few research studies have investigated the development of problem gambling as a potential side effect of dopamine agonist medications. However, there are still controversies among experts in the field. Thus far, published reports have been able to neither demonstrate the extent of risk for gambling-related problems nor study the correlation of dosage with this potential adverse effect among Parkinson’s disease patients treated with dopaminergic medications. In fact, prospective epidemiologic studies are needed to technically estimate the incidence rate and the relative risk of pathological gambling among patients with Parkinson’s disease and to determine the correlation between dosage of these medications and the development of pathological gambling.
Observations on the Blink Reflex
Authors: Pearce J.M.S.
Published: January 2008

The blink reflex and its equivalent glabella tap reflex are behavioural motor responses normally found in neonates and in the physiological startle reflex. Historically, it was described by Overend in 1896 and soon afterwards by McCarthy and by Bekhterev who disputed its origins. Kugelberg in 1952 recorded the early-latency R1 and the late-latency R2 electromyographic responses from orbicularis oculi and considered the blink reflex to be ‘a true skin reflex’. The mechanisms and clinical diagnostic value are discussed.
Haemodynamic Effects of Food Intake during Haemodialysis
Authors: Sivalingam Murugan , Banerjee Anindya , Nevett Gail , Farrington Ken
Published: January 2008

Background: There is some doubt whether food intake during haemodialysis (HD) is detrimental to haemodynamic stability. Methods: We studied 20 stable non-diabetic HD patients during a single session. A standard meal was given 45 min into dialysis. Relative blood volume (RBV), cardiac output (CO), systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and extracellular fluid (ECF) resistance were monitored continuously. Total protein and albumin were measured. Results: There was a significant reduction in RBV after food ingestion (maximum reduction 3.4 ± 1.1%; p < 0.001). There was no significant change in ECF resistance, heart rate, CO or SVR. Mean arterial pressure was significantly different from pre-food levels 30 min after food (p = 0.04). The rate of change of total protein and albumin concentration was significantly higher immediately after food ingestion. Conclusions: Food intake during HD caused significant reductions in RBV, possibly related to fluid shifts from intestinal microcirculation to interstitium. CO and SVR remained stable perhaps because of the opposing effects of food ingestion and UF.
Renal Transplantation Normalized Hydrogen Peroxide Production of Neutrophils within the First Day
Authors: Jüttner Björn , Gehrmann Axel , Breitmeier Dirk , Jaeger Karsten , Weissig Annette , Bornscheuer Albrecht , Piepenbrock Siegfried , Scheinichen Dirk
Published: January 2008

Background: Hemodialysis patients are in a state of oxidant stress. In renal transplantation reactive oxygen species (ROS) are considered to be important factors of ischemia-reperfusion injury. Neutrophils produce ROS as part of the host defense against invading bacteria. This study was designed to investigate whether neutrophil function in hemodialysis patients is immediately affected by renal transplantation. Methods: We evaluated the neutrophil respiratory burst and phagocytic activity in renal transplant patients with living-related donor (LRD) and cadaveric donor (CAD) grafts using flow cytometry techniques. Twenty patients (LRD = 6, CAD = 14) and 20 healthy volunteers were included in the study. Venous blood samples were drawn before anesthesia, 5 min before reperfusion, 1 h and 1, 3 and 7 days after reperfusion. Results: Before surgery, a significant increase in hydrogen peroxide production in neutrophils was seen for both renal transplantation groups compared to healthy subjects. Within 24 h after reperfusion hydrogen peroxide production almost decreased to normal values. The phagocytic capacity of neutrophils was continuously depressed. There were no differences between the CAD and LRD groups. Conclusions: We found that the enhanced respiratory burst activity of patients with chronic renal failure decreased to normal values within 1 day following renal transplantation. Our results suggest that reduced respiratory burst activity resulting in a diminished risk of tissue damage by the uncontrolled production of ROS.
Gene Expression Profiling of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells from Patients with Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome by cDNA Microarrays
Authors: Komatsuda Atsushi , Wakui Hideki , Iwamoto Keiko , Harada Manabu , Okumoto Yasuhide , Sawada Ken-ichi
Published: January 2008

Background: It is hypothesized that minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) is a consequence of immune cell dysfunction that may lead to release of glomerular permeability factors. However, the nature of such factors remains uncertain. Methods: Using cDNA microarrays, we performed gene expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 2 MCNS patients during nephrosis and remission phases. To confirm the cDNA microarray results, we performed quantitative real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analyses in nephrosis and remission samples from 24 MCNS patients and 10 patients with membranous nephropathy (MN), and from 24 healthy subjects. Results: Out of 24,446 genes screened, 171 functionally known genes were up-regulated (at least 2-fold) in PBMC from MCNS patients during the nephrosis phase. 21 genes encoded proteins involved in signal transduction and cytokine response. For further examination, we selected two genes encoding provable secretory proteins, chemokine (C-C) ligand 13 (CCL13) and a novel galectin-related protein (HSPC159). The results of quantitative RT-PCR showed that expressions of CCL13 and HSPC159 mRNA in nephrosis PBMC samples were higher than those in remission samples from all 24 MCNS patients examined, while these mRNA expression patterns were variable among 10 MN patients. CCL13 and HSPC159 mRNA expressions in PBMC from MCNS patients in nephrosis were significantly higher than those in nephrotic MN patients and healthy controls. Conclusion: We found that CCL13 and HSPC159 mRNA expressions in PBMC are up-regulated specifically in MCNS patients during the nephrosis phase. Further studies are necessary to clarify whether these expression changes are directly involved in the pathophysiologic processes of MCNS.
Measurement of Renal Tissue Oxygen Tension: Systematic Differences between Fluorescence Optode and Microelectrode Recordings in Anaesthetized Rabbits
Authors: Leong Chai-Ling , O’Connor Paul M. , Eppel Gabriela A. , Anderson Warwick P. , Evans Roger G.
Published: January 2008

Background/Aims: The validity of fluorescence optodes for measurement of renal cortical tissue oxygen tension was tested by comparison with Clark electrodes. Methods: We varied renal blood flow and inspired O2 content in anaesthetized rabbits while simultaneously measuring cortical tissue oxygen tension. Results: Cortical oxygen tension varied with inspired O2 content. Fluorescence optode measurements were more tightly distributed than those from a Clark electrode. Cumulative frequency distributions for fluorescence optodes were shifted to the left of those for Clark electrodes. The slope of the relationship between oxygen tension in arterial blood and cortical tissue was less for the fluorescence optode than the Clark electrode. Cortical tissue oxygen tension measurements by these two methods were correlated (r2 = 0.32; p < 0.001), with no fixed bias but considerable proportional bias. Thus, the slope of the relationship between the two measurements was less than unity (0.57 [0.50–0.69]). Conclusion: Cortical oxygen tension values from fluorescence optodes are less variable but proportionally less than those from Clark electrodes. Theoretical considerations suggest that true interstitial oxygen tension lies somewhere between values provided by the two techniques. Nevertheless, the lesser variability of the fluorescence optode technique may aid detection of physiologically significant changes in intrarenal oxygenation.
Prolactin Expression in the Sheep Brain
Authors: Roselli Charles E. , Bocklandt Sven , Stadelman Henry L. , Wadsworth Teri , Vilain Eric , Stormshak Fred
Published: January 2008

Accumulating evidence in rodents suggests that a prolactin locally synthesized and released within the brain can act together with that taken up from the circulation to modulate neuroendocrine responses. The present study was designed to identify the regional patterns of prolactin expression in the adult and developing sheep brain. Specifically, we tested the hypothesis that prolactin is expressed in regions of the adult and fetal sheep brain that are critical in the development of neuroendocrine homeostatic and behavioral functions. The expression of prolactin protein in sheep brain was demonstrated by Western blot analysis and brain prolactin mRNA was detected and sequenced using RT-PCR. In situ hybridization histochemistry revealed that prolactin mRNA was expressed in the medial preoptic area, periventricular preoptic nucleus, bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, and in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, particularly the ventral region. The neuroanatomical distribution of prolactin mRNA was best visualized in the fetus and prolactin-immunoreactive neurons could also be identified in late gestation fetuses. Brain prolactin mRNA was expressed as early as day 60 of gestation and increased as the fetus aged and peaked at day 135 (term = 147 days). Prolactin mRNA expression did not exhibit a sex difference in the preoptic area, but in the amygdala prolactin mRNA was significantly higher in females than in males at day 100 of gestation. We conclude that prolactin expressed in adult and fetal sheep brain could be involved in neurodevelopment and/or modulation of the neuroendocrine stress axis, although it is too early to rule out other possibilities given the diverse actions that have been attributed to prolactin.
Biological responses to rapid climate change at the Younger Dryas—Holocene transition at Kråkenes, western Norway
Authors: Birks H.J.B. , Birks Hilary H.
Published: January 2008

A fine-resolution pollen-stratigraphical study, supported by macrofossil analysis, has been made at Kråkenes Lake, western Norway through the Younger Dryas—Holocene transition and the early Holocene. The median sample-age difference is 14 cal. yr for the period 9175—11625 cal. yr BP. The chronology is based on 57 AMS radiocarbon dates. The pollen stratigraphy is interpreted as a primary succession following deglaciation at the end of the Younger Dryas. Palynological richness, compositional turnover and rates of assemblage change are estimated from the pollen-stratigraphical data. Comparisons between palynological turnover at Kråkenes and floristic turnover on recently deglaciated modern glacier forelands suggest a comparable primary succession and turnover at Kråkenes. However, the arrival and expansion of Betula pubescens (tree birch) was delayed by about 450 years. Possible reasons for this lag are discussed. Comparisons between turnover estimates for pollen and for diatoms through the Younger Dryas—Holocene transition highlight differences in the response dynamics of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems at Kråkenes Lake. This fine-resolution study links the long temporal perspective provided by palaeoecology with the fine temporal scales of modern ecological observations. The primary succession following rapid climate warming at Kråkenes provides a context for other past and present responses to climate warming and it can provide a long-term perspective on responses to projected future climate warming.
Holocene glacier variation chronology of the Smørstabbtindan massif, Jotunheimen, southern Norway, and the recognition of century- to millennial-scale European Neoglacial Events
Authors: Matthews John A. , Dresser P. Quentin
Published: January 2008

New stratigraphic evidence for the Holocene history of three glaciers in central Jotunheimen, southern Norway, is presented and the implications for century- to millennial-scale glacier and climatic variability are considered. Minerogenic layers in seven stream-bank mires, flooded episodically by glaciofluvial meltwater, are dated by 79 new radiocarbon age estimates. A revised chronology for glacier variations in Smørstabbtindan suggests a three-phase Holocene: (1) an early-Holocene deglaciation phase (11500—9500 cal. BP) characterized by readvances of ice-sheet remnants; (2) a mid-Holocene phase with relatively small or absent glaciers (9500—5000 cal. BP); and (3) a late-Holocene phase of enlarged and fluctuating glaciers (the last 5000 years). Seven millennial-scale neoglacial events (Smørstabbtindan I—VII), during which glaciers were larger than at present for most of the time, are dated to: >10 400—9600 (Erdalen Event), 8400—7650 (Finse Event), 4800—3900, 3200—2550, 2350—1700, 1400—750 and 500—0 cal. BP (`Little Ice Age'). Two or more century-scale events are nested within each millennial-scale event. Based on the timing of neoglacial maxima, the record from Smørstabbtindan is combined with comparable reconstructions from southern Norway to indicate at least 17 century- to millennial-scale Southern Norwegian Neoglacial Events. A similar approach to records from the Swiss and Austrian Alps identifies around 23 Alpine Neoglacial Events. This leads to the recognition of 13 European Neoglacial Events that are at least continental in extent but seem to be imperfectly correlated with episodes of low solar irradiance, which suggests that other climatic forcing factors are also involved, including volcanic aerosols and, in the early Holocene, freshwater outbursts into the northern Atlantic Ocean. Local to regional patterns in glacier behaviour, particularly in relation to century-scale events, may be accounted for by differences in glacier size and geometry, topography and atmospheric circulation patterns; whereas the three Holocene multimillennial phases appear to reflect the Earth's orbital variations.
A Theory of the Value of Grandchildren
Authors: Friedman Debra , Hechter Michael , Kreager Derek
Published: January 2008

As innovations in medical technology extend average longevity, grandparents become increasingly present during the lives of their grandchildren. We propose a theory that seeks to explain differential investment in grandchildren. The theory relies on a fundamental assumption of uncertainty reduction to explain why grandparents in post-industrial societies might find it rational to invest in at least one of their grandchildren. We advance numerous illustrative hypotheses about end of life uncertainty, as well as proportional and differential investments in grandchildren, and discuss the relevance of existing empirical literature.
The Adaptive Rationality of Interpersonal Commitment
Authors: Back István , Flache Andreas
Published: January 2008

Why are people inclined to build friendships and maintain durable, non-reproductive relationships? Previous computational modeling work showed that it can be an efficient survival strategy to choose interaction partners based on relationship length, even if, as a consequence, individuals become unconditionally cooperative in long-term relationships (interpersonal commitment). Such committed individuals can outperform conditional cooperators who play in a fair, reciprocal manner (e.g. tit for tat). However, previous studies did not conduct a sufficiently strict test of the viability of commitment because they did not account for exploiters who specifically take advantage of the tolerance of commitment players. We allow for this by extending previous studies with the possibility of randomly mutating strategies under evolutionary pressures, and thus give a much larger coverage of an infinite strategy space. Our results point to the lack of stable strategies: we find that emerging populations alternate between temporarily stable states. We also show that the viability of strategies increases with increasing levels of interpersonal commitment, and that the effect of interpersonal commitment on viability is larger than the effect of fairness.
The Evolution of Trust in Non-Simultaneous Exchange Situations
Authors: Bravo Giangiacomo , Tamburino Lucia
Published: January 2008

Trust is an important concept that intersects a number of different disciplines, including economics, sociology, and political science, and maintains some meaning even in the natural sciences. Any situation where non-simultaneous exchanges between living organisms take place involves a problem of trust. We used computer simulations to study the evolution of trust in non-simultaneous exchange situations formalized by means of a Trust game. We found that trust and reciprocity-based cooperation are likely to emerge only when agents have the possibility of building trustworthy reputations and when the information regarding agents' past behaviors is sufficiently spread in the system. Both direct and indirect reciprocity play a role in fostering cooperation. However, the strength of the latter is greater under most of the examined conditions. In general, our findings are consistent with theories arguing for a positive feedback relationship between trust, reputation, and reciprocity, leading together to higher levels of cooperation.
Iron oxides in tropical soils on various parent materials
Authors: Wiriyakitnateekul W. , Suddhiprakarn A. , Kheoruenromne I. , Smirk M. N. , Gilkes R. J.
Published: January 2008

Twenty nine Fe oxide concentrates of Thai soils formed on basalt, sandstone, shale/limestone and granite were investigated. Goethite and hematite are relatively more abundant in granitic and basaltic soils, respectively. Values of Feo/Fedrange from 0.01 to 0.28 indicating that free Fe oxides are mostly crystalline.

There are no systematic differences in unit-cell dimensions for goethite and hematite in soils on different parent materials. Mean crystallite dimensions calculated from the 110 reflections are greater for hematite than for goethite. Aluminium substitution varies from 8 to 24 mole% for goethite and from 4 to 17 mole% for hematite. The dehydroxylation temperature for goethite ranges from 285ºC to 320ºC. The goethite in basaltic soils has a smaller crystal size and Al substitution, as well as a lower dehydroxylation temperature, compared to soils on other parent materials. The dehydroxylation temperature of goethite is positively related to Al substitution (R= +0.58), MCD110 (R= +0.49) and Ald (R= +0.53). The Mn, Ni, Cr, V and P in these soils occur in Fe oxides rather than as discrete minerals.
Crystallochemistry of Fe-rich palygorskite from eastern China
Authors: Li Z. , He K. , Yin L. , Xiong F. , Zheng Y. C.
Published: January 2008

Iron cations in the octahedral sheet are a disadvantage to the industrial application of palygorskite clays. In this study, a palygorskite sample from eastern China (Mayaoshan deposit, Jiangsu Province) is shown to have an Fe content that is much greater than usual. The structural formula of the Fe-rich palygorskite sample was established as (Si7.48Al0.52) (Al1.24Fe0.94Mg1.77Ti0.03⁏1.02)O20(OH)2(OH2)4. The palygorskite is seen to be dioctahedral according to the structural formula, consistent with Fourier transform infrared data. Occurrences of AlFe3+ɏOH and Fe3+Fe3+ɏOH vibrations in the OH-stretching and -bending regions show that Fe atoms occupy inner sites of octahedral sheets. A Mössbauer spectrum confirmed that Fe ions occupy inner octahedral sites as trivalent Fe cations (Fe3+).
Characterization of products obtained by acid leaching of Fe-bentonite
Authors: Madejová J. , Andrejkovičová S. , Bujdák J. , Čeklovský A. , Hrachová J. , Valúchová J. , Komadel P.
Published: January 2008

This study focused on the structure and physical properties of acid-treated bentonite L45 from the Lieskovec deposit (Slovakia). New applications of near infrared and visible spectroscopies were used to follow Fe-montmorillonite dissolution and layer-charge reduction. Progressive dissolution of L45 results in the formation of a protonated amorphous silica phase. The OH overtone at 7312 cm–1 revealed the creation of Si–OH groups in the mildly treated samples. The area of the Si–O–Moct band, as obtained by a peak-fitting procedure, is a sensitive indicator of the changes in the octahedral sheets. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-VIS) spectroscopy of the smectite dispersions with methylene blue (MB) is an efficient method for controlling the acid activation process of bentonites. The results reveal that acid treatment causes a substantial layer-charge reduction, probably due to prevailing dissolution of MgO4(OH)2 polyhedra in the octahedral sheets. The layer-charge reduction is proportional to the structural changes and to the extent of mineral decomposition upon acid treatment.
Surface modification of bentonites. VI. Sol-gel transitions of sodium and calcium montmorillonite dispersions in the presence of anionic end-capped poly(ethylene oxides)
Authors: Ziesmer S. , Lagaly G.
Published: January 2008

Poly(ethylene oxides) (PEOs) with sulphonate groups attached at both chain ends (S-PEOs) were strongly adsorbed by dispersed Na- and Ca-montmorillonite particles. The amounts adsorbed were very similar to those of cationic end-capped poly(ethylene oxides). In both cases bilayers of PEO chains were intercalated so that the basal spacing of the particles reached the same plateau values of ~1.73 nm. In contrast, the influence of anionic PEOs on the colloidal behaviour of the Na- and Ca-montmorillonite dispersions was very different from the effect of the cationic PEOs. The shorter chain S-PEOs (S-PEO 1500, 4000) destabilized the Na-montmorillonite dispersions by coagulation due to the Na+ ions introduced as counterions to the S-PEOs. The longer chain S-PEO 20000 and S-PEO 35000 did not coagulate the Na-montmorillonite sols because the corresponding Na+ concentration did not reach the critical coagulation value. The slightly enhanced salt tolerance indicated that the long-chain PEOs exerted a weak steric stabilization. In contrast, bridging of the particles by S-PEO molecules and Ca2+ ions played an important role in destabilizing the Ca-montmorillonite dispersions in the form of flocs and formation of gels.
The NF-κB subunit Rel A is associated with in vitro survival and clinical disease progression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia and represents a promising therapeutic target
Authors: Hewamana Saman , Alghazal Suhair , Lin Thet Thet , Clement Matthew , Jenkins Chris , Guzman Monica L. , Jordan Craig T. , Neelakantan Sundar , Crooks Peter A. , Burnett Alan K. , Pratt Guy , Fegan Chris , Rowntree Clare , Brennan Paul , Pepper Chris
Published: January 2008

In this study, we characterized nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) subunit DNA binding in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) samples and demonstrated heterogeneity in basal and inducible NF-κB. However, all cases showed higher basal NF-κB than normal B cells. Subunit analysis revealed DNA binding of p50, Rel A, and c-Rel in primary CLL cells, and Rel A DNA binding was associated with in vitro survival (P = .01) with high white cell count (P = .01) and shorter lymphocyte doubling time (P = .01). NF-κB induction after in vitro stimulation with anti-IgM was associated with increased in vitro survival (P < .001) and expression of the signaling molecule ZAP-70 (P = .003). Prompted by these data, we evaluated the novel parthenolide analog, LC-1, in 54 CLL patient samples. LC-1 induced apoptosis in all the samples tested with a mean LD50 of 2.8 μM after 24 hours; normal B and T cells were significantly more resistant to its apoptotic effects (P < .001). Apoptosis was preceded by a marked loss of NF-κB DNA binding and sensitivity to LC-1 correlated with basal Rel A DNA binding (P = .03, r2 = 0.15). Furthermore, Rel A DNA binding was inversely correlated with sensitivity to fludarabine (P = .001, r2 = 0.3), implicating Rel A in fludarabine resistance. Taken together, these data indicate that Rel A represents an excellent therapeutic target for this incurable disease.
Functional mRNA expression analysis and classification of colonic biopsy samples using overall cDNA microarray technique
Authors: Galamb Orsolya , Sipos Ferenc , Dinya Elek , Spisák Sándor , Somorácz Áron , Molnár Béla , Tulassay Zsolt
Published: January 2008

A vastagbél-biopszia általános mRNS-expressziós analízise segíthet a helyi kóros elváltozások molekuláris hátterének megismerésében, a gyulladásos és daganatos colonbiopsziák molekuláris mintázat alapján történő osztályozásához.
Módszerek:
Friss fagyasztott endoszkópos vastagbél-biopsziából teljes RNS kivonása és T7-módszerrel való amplifikációja történt. A génexpressziós mintázatot Atlas Glass 1K microarray-ken határoztuk meg. A microarray minőségi ellenőrzés után a következő minták adatai voltak értékelhetők: 10 colonadenoma, 6 vastagbélrák (CRC) és gyulladásos bélbetegség (IBD: 3 colitis ulcerosa és 3 Crohn-colitis). Többváltozós statisztikai és sejtfunkcionális elemzés történt. Az expressziós adatokat valós idejű RT-PCR-rel és immunhisztokémiával erősítettük meg.
Eredmények:
A kiválasztott gének diszkriminanciaanalízisével helyesen a 22 minta 4 paraméter alapján (hősokktranszkripciós faktor-1, bystin-szerű, kalgranulin-A, TRAIL receptor-3) osztályozható volt. A gyulladásos bélbetegségekben a kemokin ligand-13, a replikációs protein A1, az E74-szerű faktor-2 fokozott működése, és a TNF-receptor-asszociált faktor-6, a BCL2-interacting killer gének csökkent működése volt jellemző. Adenomában növekedett TNF-receptor-asszociált faktor-6, replikációs protein A1 és E74-szerű faktor-2, valamint csökkent BCL2-asszociált X protein és kalgranulin-A mRNS expresszió volt kimutatható. A vastagbélrákban szignifikánsan megnövekedett az epidermális növekedési faktor receptor, a topoizomeráz-1, a v-jun, a TNF-receptor-asszociált faktor-6 és a TRAIL receptor-3 expressziója, és csökkent a RAD51 és a RAD52 DNS-javítási gének, a protein-foszfatáz-2A és BCL2-interacting killer-mRNS szintje. Az eredményeket epidermális növekedési faktor RT-PCR, immunhisztokémia és topoizomeráz-1 RT-PCR is megerősítette.
Következtetések:
A biopsziás vastagbélminták objektív, génexpressziós mintázatokon alapuló osztályozása megvalósítható a cDNS microarray-vizsgálatok eredményeinek funkcionális és többváltozós elemzésével. Betegségspecifikus génexpressziós mintázatok megismerése segítséget nyújthat a nem egyértelmű szövettani diagnózis kiegészítésében, pontosításában.
Effects of a Waiting Period After Clopidogrel Treatment Before Performing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Reichert Marc G. , Robinson Amanda H. , Travis Jeffrey A. , Hammon John W. , Kon Neal D. , Kincaid Edward H.
Published: January 2008

Study Objective. To assess the effects of a waiting period after clopidogrel treatment before coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).

Design. Single‐center, prospective, observational study.

Setting. Cardiothoracic surgery intensive care unit at a university‐affiliated medical center.

Patients. One hundred consecutive patients who received clopidogrel and were scheduled to undergo primary CABG. In 64 of these patients, CABG was delayed at least 5 days after clopidogrel treatment (group A). The other 36 patients received clopidogrel treatment within 5 days of undergoing CABG (group B).

Measurements and Main Results. Data were collected on patient demographics, time of last clopidogrel dose, preoperative anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet agents administered, surgical characteristics, intraoperative transfusions, blood products transfused, and chest tube output for 24 hours after surgery. No significant differences in baseline characteristics or intraoperative variables (number of bypasses, aortic cross‐clamp time, and cardiopulmonary bypass time) were noted between the two groups. Mean ± SD number of packed red blood cell units/patient was 1.1 ± 1.4 in group A versus 2.1 ± 2.5 in group B (p=0.009). Mean ± SD number of platelet units/patient transfused was 0.5 ± 0.9 in group A versus 1.9 ± 1.6 in group B (p <0.001). When comparing a subset of 21 patients who received clopidogrel within 72 hours of surgery with the 64 whose CABG was delayed at least 5 days after clopidogrel treatment, the transfusion rates were significantly higher (95% vs 52%, p<0.05). Specifically, the mean ± SD number of transfused units/patient of red blood cells (3.1 ± 2.8 vs 1.1 ± 1.4, p<0.005) and platelets (2.6 ± 1.5 vs 0.5 ± 0.9, p<0.007) was greater in patients who received clopidogrel within 72 hours of surgery.

Conclusion. A strategy to delay CABG after clopidogrel treatment led to reduced blood product administration. The optimal waiting period after clopidogrel treatment is not known but appears to be at least 5 days before CABG.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Heart Failure
Authors: Choy Christine K. , Rodgers Jo E. , Nappi Jean M. , Haines Stuart T.
Published: January 2008

Diabetes mellitus and heart failure are common comorbidities, and their prevalence has increased significantly over the past decade. We examined the relationships between diabetes and heart failure, the effect of commonly prescribed antidiabetic drugs on the development of heart failure, and the benefits and risks of recommended heart failure therapies in patients with diabetes. Compared with patients with heart failure who do not have diabetes, patients with both diabetes and heart failure have a poorer prognosis, including a 1.5‐2‐fold higher risk of mortality. Based on the results of randomized controlled trials, insulin and sulfonylureas do not appear to protect against or contribute to the development of new‐onset heart failure, whereas metformin may modestly reduce the risk. The use of metformin in patients with established heart failure is controversial; retrospective analyses have shown that metformin may have a beneficial effect on outcomes, but there are no prospective, randomized clinical trials to support its use in this population. The thiazolidinediones, however, contribute to the development of heart failure and increase the risk of heart failure exacerbations particularly when used in combination with insulin. Recommendations for the treatment of symptomatic heart failure in patients with diabetes have been largely derived from post hoc analyses or preplanned subgroup analyses in landmark clinical trials. The data clearly support the use of angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers for both the prevention and treatment of symptomatic heart failure in patients with diabetes. Despite concerns regarding the potential risks of β‐blockers in patients with diabetes, these drugs have a clear mortality benefit in patients with stages B and C heart failure. Therefore, patients with diabetes should not be denied β‐blocker therapy unless there is a clear contraindication. Likewise, aldosterone receptor antagonists should be added to standard therapies in patients with stages C and D heart failure. Future heart failure studies should include a sufficiently large diabetes cohort to conduct meaningful preplanned subgroup analyses that examine the effect of proposed treatments on both heart failure‐related and diabetes‐related outcomes.
Optimizing Antidiabetic Treatment Options for Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Cardiovascular Comorbidities
Authors: Malesker Mark A.
Published: January 2008

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in patients with diabetes mellitus and represents a persistent risk that is inextricably linked to the diabetic disease state. The growing number of United States Food and Drug Administration‐approved antidiabetic agents provides a wide range of therapeutic options, both as monotherapy and combination therapy, for treating hyperglycemia in patients with type 2 diabetes. Long‐term clinical experience with many of these agents has revealed nonglycemic effects on lipid levels, inflammation, and cardiovascular function. Although some of these agents can improve cardiovascular disease risk in patients with diabetes, others may increase the risk and may be prohibited from use in certain populations. Thus, the effect of antidiabetic agents on cardiovascular health and safety must be considered when selecting the most appropriate therapy. A review of the current literature was undertaken to examine the effects of antidiabetic agents on cardiovascular disease, and with the help of illustrative patient case examples, useful information is provided for clinicians to individualize therapy for patients with type 2 diabetes.
Vitamin D Supplementation to Prevent Falls in the Elderly: Evidence and Practical Considerations
Authors: Fosnight Susan M. , Zafirau William J. , Hazelett Susan E.
Published: January 2008

Pharmacists in both ambulatory and institutional settings are often in a position to help optimize the drug regimens of patients who are experiencing falls. Supplementation with vitamin D is an important emerging therapy for the prevention of falls. Numerous investigators have recently studied or reviewed the association between vitamin D supplementation and decreased risk of falls in elderly patients, yet little of this information is available in the pharmacy literature. A MEDLINE search was conducted to collect relevant articles about the role of vitamin D in preventing falls among elderly patients; recently published meta‐analyses and randomized controlled trials were identified and reviewed. The studies indicated a statistically significant positive relationship between vitamin D supplementation with either cholecalciferol 700 IU/day or greater or ergocalciferol 800 IU/day or greater and decreased risk of falls. Other practical issues, including who should receive vitamin D replacement, what form of vitamin D should be used, and what dosage is required to prevent falls, are discussed.
The Current State of Multidrug‐Resistant Gram‐Negative Bacilli in North America
Authors: Nicasio Anthony M. , Kuti Joseph L. , Nicolau David P.
Published: January 2008

Although much of today's media focuses on multidrug‐resistant gram‐positive bacteria such as methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureusand vancomycin‐resistantEnterococcusresistance within gram‐negative bacilli continues to rise, occasionally creating situations in which few or no antibiotics that retain activity are available. Extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producingEscherichia coliandKlebsiellasp are emerging threats nationally. Although carbapenems are considered the antibiotic class of choice to treat ESBL‐producing Enterobacteriaceae, the ability of these organisms to produce carbapenemases has now become apparent in some regions throughout the United States. Although still rare,Klebsiellasp that produce KPC‐2 retain susceptibility only to tigecycline, polymyxins, and occasionally aminoglycosides. Multidrug resistance amongPseudomonas aeruginosaandAcinetobactersp has always been apparent across many hospitals in the United States. Recent surveillance indicates increasing resistance to all currently available antibiotics, including carbapenems, cephalosporins, penicillins, fluoroquinolones, and aminoglycosides. Against many strains, only polymyxins retain activity; however, resistance has also been reported to these agents. Fortunately, resistance mechanisms such as metallo‐β‐lactamases are still rare in the United States. As no new antibiotics with novel mechanisms against many of these gram‐negative bacilli are expected to be developed in the foreseeable future, careful and conservative use of agents combined with good infection control practices is required.
Restless Legs Syndrome Induced by Escitalopram: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Page Robert Lee , Ruscin J. Mark , Bainbridge Jacquelyn L. , Brieke Andreas A.
Published: January 2008

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a sensorimotor disorder characterized by distressing sensations deep inside the limbs, typically occurring at bedtime or rest. These paresthesias involve an irresistible urge to move the limb, which provides temporary relief but at the expense of sleep and quality of life. The pathophysiology of RLS has been related to dopaminergic pathway dysfunction, thereby aligning it closely with depression from both pathophysiologic and treatment perspectives. Certain antidepressant drugs, including the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin‐norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), may induce or exacerbate RLS. We describe the case of a 34‐year‐old woman with no history of RLS who came to the emergency department with acute decompensated heart failure. After 7 days of hospitalization, she was waitlisted to receive a heart transplant. Her mood became depressed, and she requested a psychiatric consultation; escitalopram 10 mg at bedtime was started. Within 2 days of starting therapy, she developed very severe (determined by a score based on an RLS symptom rating scale) RLS symptoms, warranting the discontinuation of escitalopram. Within 2 days of stopping therapy, her RLS symptoms improved considerably (rated as mild). One week later, the patient was rechallenged with a lower dose of escitalopram, and her very severe RLS symptoms reappeared. Within 2 days of stopping escitalopram, her RLS symptoms again improved, with complete resolution 1 week later. Using the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale, which assesses the probability of a drug causing an adverse event, the patient's score was 9, indicating a definite adverse drug reaction. Although published case reports have linked fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram, paroxetine, and mirtazapine to RLS, this is the first report, to our knowledge, of escitalopram as a cause of RLS. Based on this case and additional data published with other SSRIs and SNRIs, we believe that escitalopram should be added to the list of agents that can induce RLS.
Mycobacterium avium Complex Infection After Alemtuzumab Therapy for Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Saadeh Claire E. , Srkalovic Gordan
Published: January 2008

Alemtuzumab is a humanized anti‐CD52 monoclonal antibody indicated for treatment of fludarabine‐refractory B‐cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B‐CLL). Severe lymphopenia is one of the most profound hematologic effects of alemtuzumab, often predisposing patients to infectious complications such as herpes simplex virus, cytomegalovirus, and Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia. Opportunistic infections secondary to mycobacterial sources have been documented less frequently. We describe the case of a 46‐year‐old man who developed a 40‐mm lymph node mass 4 months after completing alemtuzumab therapy. After a thorough evaluation, he began treatment for tuberculosis with a four‐drug combination regimen. The patient's final biopsy report indicated the presence of Mycobacterium avium complex. All clinical signs of the infection resolved with no recurrence. To our knowledge, this is the first published report of a patient who developed M. avium complex after alemtuzumab therapy. Consideration of primary prophylaxis against M. avium complex infections in aggressively treated patients with advanced B‐CLL or other clinical indications may be warranted if future reports of such atypical infections emerge.
Developing a Business‐Practice Model for Pharmacy Services in Ambulatory Settings
Authors: Harris Ila M. , Baker Ed , Berry Tricia M. , Halloran Mary Ann , Lindauer Kathleen , Ragucci Kelly R. , McGivney Melissa Somma , Taylor A. Thomas , Haines Stuart T.
Published: January 2008

A business‐practice model is a guide, or toolkit, to assist managers and clinical pharmacy practitioners in the exploration, proposal, development and implementation of new clinical pharmacy services and/or the enhancement of existing services. This document was developed by the American College of Clinical Pharmacy Task Force on Ambulatory Practice to assist clinical pharmacy practitioners and administrators in the development of business‐practice models for new and existing clinical pharmacy services in ambulatory settings. This document provides detailed instructions, examples, and resources on conducting a market assessment and a needs assessment, types of clinical services, operations, legal and regulatory issues, marketing and promotion, service development and exit plan, evaluation of service outcomes, and financial considerations in the development of a clinical pharmacy service in the ambulatory environment. Available literature is summarized, and an appendix provides valuable citations and resources. As ambulatory care practices continue to evolve, there will be increased knowledge of how to initiate and expand the services. This document is intended to serve as an essential resource to assist in the growth and development of clinical pharmacy services in the ambulatory environment.
Development of a phosphorescent white OLED with extremely high power efficiency and long lifetime
Authors: Nakayama Tomoyuki , Hiyama Kunimasa , Furukawa Keiichi , Ohtani Hirofumi
Published: January 2008

Abstract— A white OLED device with extremely high power efficiency and long lifetime was developed, in which blue, yellow‐green, and red phosphorescent emitters were used. The performances achieved were 64 lm/W and 10,000 hours of lifetime at an initial luminance of 1000 cd/m2 by using a light outcoupling technique. The device also exhibited the good durability important for practical usage. New technologies, such as blue phosphorescent materials and a sophisticated organic layer structure, were applied to the device. Hopefully, these technologies will open the door to the practical use of OLEDs as light sources.
Recent progress in flexible color reflective cholesteric displays
Authors: Khan Asad , Schneider Tod , Montbach Erica , Davis Donald J. , Miller Nick , Marhefka Duane , Ernst Todd , Doane J. William
Published: January 2008

Abstract— Highly flexible layered full‐color cholesteric displays fabricated using ultra‐thin substrates with encapsulation through the phase‐separation approach is reported. Recent progress of the state of the art of cholesteric display technology will be discussed as well.
High‐performance OCB‐mode field‐sequential‐color LCD
Authors: Ishinabe Takahiro , Wako Kazuhiro , Sekiya Kazuo , Kishimoto Tadashi , Miyashita Tetsuya , Uchida Tatsuo
Published: January 2008

Abstract— Optically compensated bend (OCB) mode is a promising technology for future high‐quality display devices due to its wide viewing angle without gray‐scale inversion and color shift, fast response time, high contrast ratio, and wide temperature range. This paper summarizes the developments of the OCB mode and the optical performance of OCB‐mode field‐sequential‐color LCD.
Viewing‐angle compensation of TN‐ and ECB‐LCD modes by using a rod‐like liquid‐crystalline polymer film
Authors: Uesaka Tetsuya , Ikeda Satoru , Nishimura Suzushi , Mazaki Hitoshi
Published: January 2008

Abstract— A liquid‐crystal line retardation‐film technology by using a rod‐like liquid‐crystalline polymer (LCP) for various LCD modes have been developed. In particular, considerable improvements in viewing‐angle performance have been achieved for the twisted‐nematic (TN) and the transmissive/transflective electrically controlled birefringence (ECB) modes by using hybrid aligned nematic film (NH Film).
A novel lens cap designed for the RGB LEDs installed in an ultra‐thin and directly lit backlight unit of large‐sized LCD TVs
Authors: Chao Paul C.‐P. , Shen C.‐Y. , Chiu C.‐W. , Huang J.‐S. , Kao Y.‐Y. , Tu T.‐Y. , Wang C.‐L. , Chi Solomon , Lin H.‐W. , Tsai S.‐Y.
Published: January 2008

Abstract— The objective of this study is to design a novel cone‐shaped lens cap on LEDs in order to achieve high optical efficiency in an ultra‐thin directly lit RGB LED backlight unit (BLU) for large‐sized LCD TVs. The use of the novel lens cap could play the role of a diffuser, a low light‐efficiency component in a BLU, in order to gain higher efficiency and simultaneously provide satisfactory uniformity in light distribution. The novel cone‐shaped lens is coated with aluminum on the outside surface of the cone for mirroring effects to reflect most of the LED emitted light horizontally and then reflect the light at the BLU boundaries, and then, finally to the output plane. In this way, bright spots on the output plane of the BLU can be avoided, leading to increased uniformity. Simulations were conducted to design and optimize varied aspects of the designed lens and BLU, including the cone angle of the proposed lens and the LED spacing (pitch). To further achieve color balance, a known Genetic Algorithm is used to search for the optimal angular placement of each RGB LED, resulting in better color balance. Finally, a prototype BLU for large‐sized 37‐in. LCD TVs with the proposed lens was built to verify the expected performance.
Design and fabrication of a micropatterned polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) light‐guide plate for sheet‐less LCD backlight unit
Authors: Lee Joo‐Hyung , Lee Hong‐Seok , Lee Byung‐Kee , Choi Won‐Seok , Choi Hwan‐Young , Yoon Jun‐Bo
Published: January 2008

Abstract— A polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) light‐guide plate (LGP) having micropatterns with an inverse‐trapezoidal cross section was developed for a sheet‐less LCD backlight unit (BLU). The micropatterned PDMS LGP was fabricated by backside 3‐D diffuser lithography followed by two consecutive PDMS replication processes: photoresist‐to‐PDMS and PDMS‐to‐PDMS replications. The fabricated LGP showed an average luminance of 2878 nits and a uniformity of 73.3% in a 2‐in. backlight module with four side‐view 0.85‐cd LEDs. It also could feasibly be applied to a light source for flexible displays owing to the flexible characteristic of the PDMS itself.