bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating Metformin for Cancer Prevention and Treatment: The End of the Beginning
Authors: Pollak Michael N.
Published: August 2012

Laboratory research and pharmacoepidemiology are providing converging evidence that the widely used antidiabetic drug metformin has antineoplastic activity, but there are caveats. Although population studies suggest that metformin exposure is associated with reduced cancer risk and/or improved prognosis, these data are mostly retrospective and nonrandomized. Laboratory models show antineoplastic activity, but metformin concentrations used in many experiments exceed those achieved with conventional doses used for diabetes treatment. Ongoing translational research should be useful in guiding design of clinical trials, not only to evaluate metformin at conventional antidiabetic doses, where reduction of elevated insulin levels may contribute to antineoplastic activity for certain subsets of patients, but also to explore more aggressive dosing of biguanides, which may lead to reprogramming of energy metabolism in a manner that could provide important opportunities for synthetic lethality through rational drug combinations or in the context of genetic lesions associated with hypersensitivity to energetic stress.

Significance: There are tantalizing clues that justify the investigation of antineoplastic activities of biguanides. The complexity of their biologic effects requires further translational research to guide clinical trial design. Cancer Discov; 2(9); 778–90. ©2012 AACR.
The Exploration of the Effectiveness of Group Therapy through an Internet Chat as Aftercare: A Controlled Naturalistic Study
Authors: Golkaramnay Valiollah , Bauer Stephanie , Haug Severin , Wolf Markus , Kordy Hans
Published: August 2012

Background: Modern communication technologies offer novel opportunities for the provision of stepped care for patients with mental disorders. This study investigated the effectiveness of group therapy delivered through an Internet chat following inpatient treatment. The main goal of the program was to reduce the risk of losing the therapeutic benefits achieved during the preceding inpatient treatment. Methods: 114 patients participated in one of two parallel groups of 8–10 patients that met with a group therapist in an Internet chat room. The groups met weekly for 12–15 weeks for 90 min. Controls were 114 patients who did not participate in the chat groups and were matched by application of propensity score methods. The main criterion was derived from comprehensive assessments of changes in health status comprising the psychological and physical condition of the patients. Assessments were conducted at admission, discharge and 12 months after discharge. Results: 12 months after discharge, chat participants showed a substantially lower risk (24.7%) for negative outcome than controls (38.5%). Furthermore, the low dropout rate and the high session attendance supported the expectation that this novel offer met patients’ needs, and thus, opens a new avenue for the optimization of care for patients with mental disorders.
Tunisia: Communities and Community Genetics
Authors: Chaabouni-Bouhamed Habiba
Published: August 2012

The population of Tunisia rose from 2.7 millions before the Second World War to 10,074,951 in 2005. Modern Tunisians are the descendents of indigenous Berbers and of people from various civilizations that were assimilated into the population over the centuries. Since its independence in 1956, Tunisia has enjoyed a stable political regime. The social landscape has also changed, based on the declaration of the Code of Personal Status, and on the nationwide education and economic progress.Consanguineous marriages are prevalent, with the same distribution between maternal and paternal relatives’ offspring. Large and consanguineous families contributed to the description of a number of new autosomal recessive conditions and to identify new loci and genes. Genetic disorders are common in Tunisia, where most people are receptive to health guidelines. Selective abortion of an affected fetus is legal in Tunisia. Contraception is encouraged. This paper reviews common genetic disorders in the country. In spite of the high quality of health care services provided in Tunisia and the progress made in genetic research in the country, genetic services still remain insufficient and do not cover all parts of the country.At present, genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis seems to be the method of choice to prevent genetic diseases in Tunisia, and such services should be developed as a priority despite the financial costs of such a program.
Abdominal Adhesion Prevention: Still a Sticky Subject
Authors: Lauder Chris I.W. , Garcea Giuseppe , Strickland Andrew , Maddern Guy J.
Published: August 2012

Background: Adhesion formation remains an almost inevitable consequence of abdominal procedures, potentially resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. There is an ongoing need to evaluate current understanding of adhesion formation and products aimed at prevention. Failure to keep up to date with adhesion treatment may subject clinicians to a greater medico-legal risk. Design: Review of published studies exploring the problem of peritoneal adhesion formation. This encompasses the underlying processes of adhesion formation combined with general approaches to reduce formation. An overview of products trialled to prevent formation in both the animal model and clinical setting describes products of scientific interest and commercial success. Results: Advances in surgical technique, such as laparoscopic surgery, can help minimize the probability of adhesion formation. Currently barrier products, whilst reducing adhesion formation, have not been shown to reduce the risk of readmission with complications related to adhesions. Hybrid products may improve upon this situation. Conclusions: No single approach has been wholly satisfactory in reducing adhesions. Research into the processes driving adhesion formation is providing exciting new targets for therapeutic agents. It would seem plausible that with many promising avenues of research a revolutionary agent to reduce the incidence of adhesional small bowel obstruction may result.
The Safety of Peanut Oral Immunotherapy in Peanut-Allergic Subjects in a Single-Center Trial
Authors: Yu G.P. , Weldon B. , Neale-May S. , Nadeau K.C.
Published: August 2012

Background: Peanut allergy is the leading cause of food-related anaphylaxis, and accidental exposures are common. Oral immunotherapy (OIT) has been posited as a potential treatment. Methods: Patients aged 3–65 years with peanut-specific IgE ≥7 kU/l and/or a positive skin prick test with a history of an allergic reaction to peanut were recruited to undergo an OIT protocol. All adverse reactions were recorded by research staff or patients in real time. Results: Twenty-four patients received 6,662 doses. Symptoms were mostly mild (84%), and only 3 severe gastrointestinal reactions required the administration of epinephrine. Abdominal pain was the most common reaction, followed by oropharyngeal and lip pruritus. Respiratory symptoms were rare. Conclusions: In this trial of OIT in adults and children, most reactions were mild.
New Reference Values for Vitamin D
Authors:   German Nutrition Society, Bonn, Germany
Published: August 2012

In the recent past, many studies have been published on the association between vitamin D and bone health or the risk of various chronic diseases. Thus, the D-A-CH reference values [D-A-CH arises from the initial letters of the common country identification for the countries Germany (D), Austria (A) and Switzerland (CH)] for the intake of vitamin D have been revised based on a critical review by the German Nutrition Society. Both dietary intake and endogenous synthesis contribute to the body’s vitamin D status. Since different factors modulate the extent of endogenous vitamin D formation, quantification is hardly possible. Therefore, the new reference values for vitamin D intake are specified for a situation in which endogenous synthesis is completely missing. Based on the findings of the critical review, serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations of 50 nmol/l or higher are considered an indicator of an optimal vitamin D status. When endogenous synthesis is missing, adequate vitamin D intake is estimated as 20 µg per day for children, adolescents and adults. Dietary vitamin D intake from habitual diet is not sufficient to achieve this value. This gap has to be covered by endogenous vitamin D synthesis and/or additional intake of vitamin D. It is clearly stated that the desired vitamin D supply can be achieved without using vitamin D supplements by frequent sun exposure.
Working Memory and Speed of Information Processing in Chronic Khat Users: Preliminary Findings
Authors: Hoffman Richard , al’Absi Mustafa
Published: August 2012

To date there are very few laboratory data available regarding the long-term effect of the psychostimulant khat on human neurocognitive functioning. The purpose of the present study was to assess whether chronic khat users would demonstrate impairments in working memory and speed of information processing compared to control subjects. Working memory was assessed using the forward and backward digit span test. Speed of information processing was assessed using the Digit Symbol Substitution Test. Results of the present study indicate that chronic khat use may have a long-term deleterious effect on working memory, particularly on digit backwards measures of short-term/working memory. The finding is consistent with results seen by several investigators in samples of methamphetamine users.
Central Dopaminergic Activity Influences Metabolic Parameters in Healthy Men
Authors: Brunerova Ludmila , Potockova Jana , Horacek Jiri , Suchy Jiri , Andel Michal
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Central dopaminergic activity is probably linked to regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and weight maintenance. The aim of our study was to evaluate the relationship between central dopaminergic activity measured using the apomorphine challenge test and metabolic parameters in healthy men. Methods: Forty-two healthy men (average age 43.5 ± 7.4 years, body mass index, BMI, 27.4 ± 5.7) were examined anthropometrically and biochemically (glycemia, lipids, glycated hemoglobin). Central dopaminergic activity was assessed as the area under the curve (AUC) of prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) responses to the apomorphine challenge test after sublingual administration of apomorphine in a dose of 0.033 mg/kg. Insulin resistance was quantified by calculation of glucose disposal and metabolic clearance rate during a euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp on two insulin levels (1 and 10 mIU/kg/min). Linear regression was used for statistical analysis. Results: Hormonal responses correlated negatively with age (for AUC/GH r = -0.33; p = 0.031) and BMI (AUC/GH r = -0.41; p = 0.007). After adjustment for age and BMI, a statistically significant negative correlations between AUC/PRL and total cholesterol (r = -0.41; p = 0.007), AUC/GH and HbA1c (r = -0.37; p = 0.016) and AUC/GH and HOMA (homeostasis model assessment; r = -0.345; p = 0.025) were observed. Conclusion: Central dopaminergic activity declines with age and BMI. Higher total cholesterol, glycated hemoglobin and insulin resistance parameters are connected with lower central dopamine tone.
CB1 and CB2 Receptor Expression and Promoter Methylation in Patients with Cannabis Dependence
Authors: Rotter Andrea , Bayerlein Kristina , Hansbauer Max , Weiland Judith , Sperling Wolfgang , Kornhuber Johannes , Biermann Teresa
Published: August 2012

CB1 and CB2 receptors are influenced via exogenous and endogenous cannabinoids. To date, little is known regarding changes in receptor expression and methylation in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) dependence. Therefore, the CB1 and CB2 receptor mRNA expression levels and promoter methylation status in the peripheral blood cells of 77 subjects (36 with THC dependence, 21 cigarette smokers and 20 nonsmokers) were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR and methylation-specific PCR. There was a significant difference in CB1 receptor expression levels between the three groups (ANOVA, p < 0.001, d.f. = 2, F = 71.3). The mean promoter methylation (%) was significantly negatively correlated with CB1 receptor mRNA expression levels (Spearman’s rho: r = –0.37; p = 0.002). Using a mixed general linear model, it was demonstrated that the CB1 mRNA expression (as the dependent variable) was associated with the satisfaction with life scale (SWLS) (r = 0.101; T = 2.8; p = 0.007), craving (as measured with the VAS; r = –0.023; T = –2.3; p = 0.023) and the WHO-Assist Subscale for Cannabis consumption (r = –0.068; T = –2.4; p = 0.02). CB1 receptor expression levels and methylation status appear to be altered in subjects with THC dependence.
Peritoneal Dialysis as Compared with Hemodialysis Is Associated with Higher Overhydration but Non-Inferior Blood Pressure Control and Heart Function
Authors: Yao Yen-Hung , Fu Chun-Hsiang , Ho Shuenn-Jiin , Tsai Shin-Hung , Ng Yee-Yung , Chuang Chiao-Lin , Lin Chih-Chin , Chen Jinn-Yang
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Fluid overload is an important factor causing cardiovascular complications in dialysis patients. We compared fluid status, blood pressure (BP) and heart function between peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients and hemodialysis (HD) patients. Methods: We recruited 94 PD and 75 HD patients in our hospital. Fluid status was assessed by bioimpedance spectroscopy. Home BP was recorded. Use of antihypertensives was retrieved by chart review. In each group, 39 patients received echocardiographic examinations. Results: PD patients’ fluid status was similar to that of predialysis HD patients. PD patients had lower systolic BP. E/E′ and left ventricular mass index (LVMI) showed no significant intergroup difference. In multiple linear regression analyses, overhydration (OH)/extracellular water ratio >0.15 was associated with higher systolic BP, E/E′ and LVMI. Conclusions: While PD was associated with higher OH but non-inferior BP control and heart function, OH was indeed related to poor BP control, diastolic dysfunction and left ventricular hypertrophy.
Alveolar Macrophage Cathelicidin Deficiency in Severe Sarcoidosis
Authors: Barna Barbara P. , Culver Daniel A. , Kanchwala Ali , Singh Ravinder J. , Huizar Isham , Abraham Susamma , Malur Anagha , Marshall Irene , Kavuru Mani S. , Thomassen Mary Jane
Published: August 2012

Background: Dysfunctional immune responses characterize sarcoidosis, but the status of cathelicidin, a potent immunoregulatory and antimicrobial molecule, has not been established in clinical disease activity. Methods: Alveolar macrophage cathelicidin expression was determined in biopsy-proven sarcoidosis patients classified clinically as ‘severe’ (requiring systemic treatment) or ‘non-severe’ (never requiring treatment). Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells from sarcoidosis patients and healthy controls were analyzed for mRNA expression of cathelicidin, vitamin D receptor (VDR) and the VDR coactivator steroid receptor coactivator-3 (SRC3) by quantitative PCR. Cathelicidin-derived peptide LL-37 was determined by immunocytochemistry. Serum calcidiol (25-hydroxyvitamin D2; vitD2) and calcitriol (1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3; vitD3) were quantified. Results: The results indicated reduced BAL cell expression of cathelicidin and SRC3 in severe but not non-severe sarcoidosis compared to controls. Serum levels of biologically active vitD3 in both severe and non-severe patients were within the control range even though vitD2 levels in both groups were below the recommended level (30 ng/ml). Sarcoidosis and control alveolar macrophages were studied in vitro to determine cathelicidin responses to vitD3 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), a vitD3 antagonist elevated in active sarcoidosis. Alveolar macrophage cathelicidin was stimulated by vitD3 but repressed by TNFα, which also repressed SRC3. Conclusions: These findings suggest that TNFα-mediated repression of SRC3 contributes to alveolar macrophage cathelicidin deficiency in severe sarcoidosis despite healthy vitD3 levels. Deficiency of cathelicidin, a multifunctional regulator of immune cells and proinflammatory cytokines, may impede resolution of inflammation in the lungs of patients with severe sarcoidosis.
Retinal Microvascular Signs Are Associated with Chronic Kidney Disease in Persons with and without Diabetes
Authors: Liew G. , Mitchell P. , Wong T.Y. , Wang J.J.
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: In persons with diabetes, retinal microvascular abnormalities are associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, it is not clear if the same relationship applies in persons without diabetes. Methods: We examined 2,971 participants from a population-based study (240 with, 2,731 without diabetes). Retinal photographs were masked graded for retinal microvascular signs, and CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFRMDRD) <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Results: Retinal microvascular signs were more frequent in persons with CKD. After adjusting for age, gender, systolic blood pressure and fasting plasma glucose, CKD was associated with both presence of retinopathy (odds ratio, OR, 1.2, 95% confidence interval, CI 1.0–1.5) and venular dilation (OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0–1.5). These associations were similar in persons with and without diabetes. There was a significant trend for increasing magnitude of associations of retinopathy with increasing severity levels of CKD (p for trend 0.03). Conclusions: Retinal microvascular signs, namely retinopathy lesions and venular dilation, are associated with CKD both in persons with, and without diabetes. This supports the concept that retinal microvascular signs are indicators of generalized microvascular disease even in the absence of diabetes, and reinforces the link between retinal and renal microcirculations.
The Role of the EQ-5D in the Economic Evaluation of Dermatological Conditions and Therapies
Authors: Pereira F.R.A. , Basra M.K.A. , Finlay A.Y. , Salek M.S.
Published: August 2012

Economic evaluation is an increasingly important aspect of assessment of the burden of skin diseases. Although dermatology data were not used in its development, the use of the EQ-5D questionnaire has been encouraged by the requirement of health technology assessment agencies for utility comparisons informing reimbursement decisions. The aim of this review was to examine the use of the EQ-5D in dermatology and to consider its future role in the economic evaluation of skin diseases. Published studies reporting the use of the EQ-5D in the economic analysis of skin diseases were carefully examined. Nineteen articles and 1 abstract published between 2003 and 2011 were identified, in which cost-of-illness, cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analyses were described. The EQ-5D is not a dermatology-specific measure, and it is not yet clear whether it is the most appropriate measure to support economic evaluation in the context of dermatology.
Outcome of Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes Two Years after Lung Transplantation
Authors: Valour Florent , Brault Coralie , Abbas-Chorfa Fatima , Martin Christine , Kessler Laurence , Kanaan Reem , Mosnier-Pudar Hélène , Coltey Bérengère , Nove-Josserand Raphaële , Durupt Stéphane , Colin Cyrille , Durieu Isabelle
Published: August 2012

Background: Although transplantation is known to impair glucose tolerance, evolution of pre-existing diabetes after lung transplantation (LT) in cystic fibrosis (CF) has never been described. Objectives: We aimed to assess the outcome of CF-related diabetes (CFRD) after LT, with the hypothesis that suppressing chronic inflammatory foci may improve glucose tolerance in some patients. Methods: In a retrospective study of 29 CF diabetic patients treated with insulin and undergoing LT, CFRD control was assessed 3 months before LT and 1 (n = 27) and 2 (n = 18) years after LT by measuring insulin dosage, fasting blood glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. Patients with HbA1c ≤7% and an insulin dose ≤1 UI/kg/day were defined as having controlled CFRD (group A). Other patients were assigned to group B. Results: Before LT, 19 (65.5%) patients were in group A. At 2 years, 6 of 10 (60%) patients who were in group B prior to LT had moved into group A, which then comprised 77.8% of all patients. Insulin could have been stopped in 5 patients. Uncontrolled CFRD before LT (OR = 16) and a long delay between the diagnosis of CFRD and LT (OR = 1.3) were significant predictors of uncontrolled CFRD at 1 year. Conclusions: LT does not seem to worsen CFRD in some patients, suggesting that in some cases, glucose tolerance may be improved by the suppression of chronic pulmonary infection.
Slow Early Graft Function: A Neglected Entity after Renal Transplantation
Authors: Nel D. , Vogel J. , Muller E. , Barday Z. , Kahn D.
Published: August 2012

Background: After renal transplantation, early graft function (EGF) can be divided into delayed graft function (DGF), slow graft function (SGF) and immediate graft function (IGF). DGF is well documented. However, when evaluating the long-term significance of early function, the literature shows conflicting definitions and inconsistent results. In addition, SGF, a new entity separate to DGF and IGF, is a recent and poorly understood development. Aim: To investigate the risk factors for and the impact of poor EGF (PEGF) on long-term outcome. Methods: This retrospective study reviewed the records of local adult patients who underwent renal transplantation at the Groote Schuur Hospital (Cape Town, South Africa) between 2004 and 2008. EGF was divided according to day 5 serum creatinine into IGF (serum creatinine <150 µmol/l), SGF (serum creatinine >150 but <450 µmol/l) and DGF (serum creatinine >450 µmol/l or dialysis in the first week). DGF and SGF together comprised PEGF, with IGF alone representing good EGF (GEGF). Results: A total of 121 patients (77 men, 44 women; mean age 39 years, range 14–67) were included in the study. Eighteen were excluded due to nephrectomy (n = 8), death (n = 6) or loss to follow-up (n = 4) within the first year. Analysis of cadaveric donors showed no significant risk factors for PEGF with the exception of cold ischaemic time, which differed significantly between the GEGF and PEGF groups, with means of 12 and 16 h, respectively (p = 0.013). Considering both living and cadaveric grafts, the 1-year estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was significantly different between IGF and DGF (p = 0.038) as well as between IGF and SGF (p = 0.028), with no significant difference between SGF and DGF (p > 0.05). A comparison of the PEGF and GEGF groups yielded significantly different 1-year eGFR values (60 and 50 ml/min, respectively; p = 0.07), with PEGF also associated with a longer hospital stay (20 vs. 14 days; p = 0.00005). Acute rejection was independently associated with a lower 1-year eGFR (p = 0.028), but in the absence of rejection, GEGF and PEGF remained significantly different with regards to 1-year eGFR (p = 0.024). Conclusions: SGF is not related to IGF but rather to DGF and should thus be regarded as a form of PEGF as opposed to GEGF. PEGF has a worse long-term outcome, and this indicates the need for increased efforts in its prevention and greater attention to its management.
Intake of Own Mother’s Milk during the First Days of Life Is Associated with Decreased Morbidity and Mortality in Very Low Birth Weight Infants during the First 60 Days of Life
Authors: Corpeleijn Willemijn E. , Kouwenhoven Stefanie M.P. , Paap Muirne C. , van Vliet Ineke , Scheerder Irene , Muizer Yvonne , Helder Onno K. , van Goudoever Johannes B. , Vermeulen Marijn J.
Published: August 2012

Background: The incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and possibly also of sepsis is lower in preterm infants fed their own mother’s milk (hereafter ‘mother’s milk’) compared with formula-fed infants. It is unclear whether this is caused by the protective properties of breast milk or by the absence of cow’s milk. Especially in early life, mother’s milk is often unavailable to preterm infants, while minimal enteral nutrition is initiated immediately. Objectives: To determine whether there is an association between intake of mother’s milk during the first days of life and the combined outcome of sepsis, NEC and death over a prolonged period. Methods: Retrospective study in infants with a birth weight <1,500 g. Intake of mother’s milk and formula during the first 10 days of life was recorded. The occurrence of sepsis, NEC and death was registered during the first 60 days. Data were analysed using Cox regression analysis, taking confounders into account. Results: In total, 349 infants were included. Intake of mother’s milk during the first 5 days of life was associated with a lower incidence of NEC, sepsis and/or death during the first 60 days of life (hazard ratio (HR) in the category 0.01–50% intake of mother’s milk: 0.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.28, 0.87; HR in the category 50.01–100% intake of mother’s milk: 0.50, 95% CI 0.31, 0.83, both compared to no mother’s milk). During days 6–10, the protective effect was only present if >50% of the total intake was mother’s milk (HR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.22, 0.65). Conclusion: The type of enteral nutrition during the first 10 days of life is associated with the risk of NEC, sepsis and/or death during the first 60 days of life.
Metabolic Effects of Intraoperative Amino Acid Infusion in Mongrel Dogs
Authors: Jin Lin , Ge Shengjin , Wang Hongshan , Gao Xiaodong , Jin Jianjun , Xue Zhanggang
Published: August 2012

Background: Intraoperative amino acid infusion can attenuate the decrease in core temperature, but the metabolic effects are uncertain. Methods: Thirty-six healthy mongrel dogs undergoing ileectomy under general anesthesia were infused intraoperatively with normal saline or 18 compound amino acids at 6, 12, and 24 kJ·kg–1·h–1 (NS, 6-, 12-, and 24-kJ groups) and studied until 24 h after the operation. Blood glucose, plasma insulin, free fatty acids, and triglyceride concentrations were determined at 7 defined time points. Muscle aminograms, urinary urea, and 3-methylhistidine excretions were measured before and after the operation. Results: Blood glucose and plasma insulin increased amino acid dose dependently during the operation and in the early period after the operation. Free fatty acids were significantly lower in the 12- and 24-kJ groups compared with the NS group at the end of the operation. The negative nitrogen balance was alleviated dose dependently in the amino acid groups on operation day. The urinary 3-methylhistidine decreased significantly during the first 24 h after the operation in the 24-kJ group, while it increased in the other groups with the largest increase in the NS group. Basic, branched-chain, and aromatic amino acids in the vastus lateralis muscle increased dose dependently at the end of the operation in the amino acid groups. Conclusion: Intraoperative amino acid infusion has the dose-dependent effects of increasing blood glucose, inhibiting fat mobilization and muscle protein breakdown.
Relationship between Strength, Power and Balance Performance in Seniors
Authors: Muehlbauer Thomas , Besemer Carmen , Wehrle Anja , Gollhofer Albert , Granacher Urs
Published: August 2012

Background: Deficits in strength, power and balance represent important intrinsic risk factors for falls in seniors. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between variables of lower extremity muscle strength/power and balance, assessed under various task conditions. Methods: Twenty-four healthy and physically active older adults (mean age: 70 ± 5 years) were tested for their isometric strength (i.e. maximal isometric force of the leg extensors) and muscle power (i.e. countermovement jump height and power) as well as for their steady-state (i.e. unperturbed standing, 10-meter walk), proactive (i.e. Timed Up & Go test, Functional Reach Test) and reactive (i.e. perturbed standing) balance. Balance tests were conducted under single (i.e. standing or walking alone) and dual task conditions (i.e. standing or walking plus cognitive and motor interference task). Results: Significant positive correlations were found between measures of isometric strength and muscle power of the lower extremities (r values ranged between 0.608 and 0.720, p < 0.01). Hardly any significant associations were found between variables of strength, power and balance (i.e. no significant association in 20 out of 21 cases). Additionally, no significant correlations were found between measures of steady-state, proactive and reactive balance or balance tests performed under single and dual task conditions (all p > 0.05). Conclusion: The predominately nonsignificant correlations between different types of balance imply that balance performance is task specific in healthy and physically active seniors. Further, strength, power and balance as well as balance under single and dual task conditions seem to be independent of each other and may have to be tested and trained complementarily.
X-Ray Microtomography Study to Validate the Efficacies of Caries Removal in Primary Molars by Hand Excavation and Chemo-Mechanical Technique
Authors: Ahmed M. , Davis G.R. , Wong F.S.L.
Published: August 2012

Background/Aims: Mechanical removal of carious dentine based on perceived hardness is subjective and tends to be excessively destructive; chemo-mechanical techniques have been proposed as being more objective and conservative. The aims of the present study are to use X-ray microtomography (XMT/micro-CT) to determine the three-dimensional mineral concentration distribution in sound, carious and excavated dentine using hand excavation (HE) and a chemo-mechanical, Carisolv (CS), removal technique for primary molars, and to compare the volume of sound dentine removed in order to validate the efficacies of these two techniques. Methods: Twenty-one primary molars with open carious cavities were hemisected. The carious tissue in one half was then removed by HE and the other by CS. XMT scans were taken before and after caries removal. After alignment, subtracted XMT images from the two scans revealing the tissues removed were generated, from which mineral distributions were determined, and volumes of sound dentine removed by each technique were calculated. Results: It was found that the sound dentine removed by HE and CS techniques accounted for 4.0 and 2.1% of total tissues removed, respectively. The mean cut-off linear attenuation coefficients at 40 keV to which HE and CS excavated to were 1.27 and 1.09 cm–1, respectively. The corresponding Knoop hardness number for the cut-off for CS was 25 kg·mm–2. Conclusion: It is concluded that using XMT, CS is validated to be more conservative than HE and preserves a layer of partially demineralised dentine with a mineral concentration >0.97 g·cm–3.
Cerebral Injury and Neurodevelopmental Impairment after Amnioreduction versus Laser Surgery in Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: van Klink Jeanine M.M. , Koopman Hendrik M. , van Zwet Erik W. , Oepkes Dick , Walther Frans J. , Lopriore Enrico
Published: August 2012

Objective: To estimate the odds of severe cerebral injury and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment in monochorionic twins treated with amnioreduction versus laser surgery for twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Methods: A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies on cerebral injury and long-term impairment after amnioreduction versus laser surgery were conducted. Odds ratios (OR) with their 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed. Results: Electronic and manual search identified 63 references. Five studies were included for analysis. We found an ample seven-fold higher risk of severe cerebral injury in live-born children treated with amnioreduction compared to laser (OR 7.69, 95% CI 2.78-20.0, p = 0.00). In children surviving the neonatal period, the odds were three-times higher following amnioreduction (OR 3.23, 95% CI 1.45-7.14, p = 0.00). Although not significant, monochorionic twins treated with amnioreduction had higher odds of periventricular leukomalacia and intraventricular hemorrhage (OR 2.08, 95% CI 0.86-5.00, p = 0.10 and OR 3.56, 95% CI 0.82-14.29, p = 0.09). Unfortunately, there were insufficient long-term outcome data available to estimate the odds of neurodevelopmental impairment. Conclusion: Amnioreduction is associated with an increased risk of severe cerebral injury compared to laser surgery in twin-twin transfusion syndrome. Our study highlights a lack of studies focusing on long-term neurodevelopmental outcome. Follow-up into childhood is indispensable to determine outcome in terms of motor, cognitive and socioemotional development.
Second-Trimester Uterine Artery Doppler in the Prediction of Stillbirths
Authors: Poon Leona C.Y. , Volpe Nicola , Muto Brunella , Yu Christina K.H. , Syngelaki Argyro , Nicolaides Kypros H.
Published: August 2012

Objective: To examine the role of second-trimester uterine artery Doppler in the prediction of stillbirths. Methods: Uterine artery pulsatility index (PI) was measured at 20–24 weeks’ gestation in 65,819 singleton pregnancies. The PI was converted to multiples of median (MoM) and compared in live births and stillbirths. Regression analysis was used to determine the significance of association between log10 uterine artery PI MoM and gestational age (GA) at delivery in cases of stillbirths. Results: There were 306 (0.46%) stillbirths and in 159 (52.0%) of these there was pre-eclampsia (PE), placental abruption and/or birthweight below the 10th percentile (small for gestational age, SGA). In the stillbirths, the uterine artery PI MoM was significantly higher than in live births and was inversely associated with GA at delivery. The uterine artery PI MoM was above the 90th percentile in 80.6% of stillbirths with PE, abruption and/or SGA delivering at <32 weeks’ gestation, in 41.9% at 33–36 weeks and in 34.3% at ≥37 weeks, and the respective percentages for stillbirths without PE, abruption or SGA were 15.8, 25.0 and 12.4%. Conclusion: Second-trimester uterine artery PI is effective in identifying early stillbirths in association with PE, abruption or SGA but not late deaths in the absence of PE, abruption or SGA.
The Inflammatory Chemokine CXC Motif Ligand 16 Triggers Platelet Activation and Adhesion Via CXC Motif Receptor 6–Dependent Phosphatidylinositide 3-Kinase/Akt Signaling
Authors: Borst Oliver , Münzer Patrick , Gatidis Sergios , Schmidt Eva-Maria , Schönberger Tanja , Schmid Evi , Towhid Syeda T. , Stellos Konstantinos , Seizer Peter , May Andreas E. , Lang Florian , Gawaz Meinrad
Published: August 2012

Rationale:

The recently discovered chemokine CXC motif ligand 16 (CXCL16) is highly expressed in atherosclerotic lesions and is a potential pathogenic mediator in coronary artery disease.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to test the role of CXCL16 on platelet activation and vascular adhesion, as well as the underlying mechanism and signaling pathway.

Methods and Results:

Reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry revealed that CXCL16-specific receptor, CXC motif receptor 6, is highly expressed in platelets. According to flow cytometry and confocal microscopy, stimulation of platelets with CXCL16 induced platelet degranulation, integrin α
IIb
β
3
activation, and shape change. CXCL16 increased Akt phosphorylation (Thr
308
/Ser
473
), an effect abrogated by phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase inhibitors wortmannin (100 nmol/L) and LY294002 (25 µmol/L). The phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase inhibitors and Akt inhibitor SH-6 (20 µmol/L) further diminished CXCL16-induced platelet activation. CXCL16-mediated platelet degranulation, integrin α
IIb
β
3
activation, and Akt phosphorylation were blunted in platelets lacking CXCL16-specific receptor CXC motif receptor 6. CXCL16-induced platelet activation was abrogated in Akt1- or Akt2-deficient platelets. CXCL16 enhanced platelet adhesion to endothelium in vitro after high arterial shear stress (2000
−s
) and to injured vascular wall in vivo after carotid ligation. CXCL16-induced stimulation of platelet adhesion again was prevented by phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase and Akt inhibitors. Apyrase and antagonists of platelet purinergic receptors P
2
Y
1
(MRS2179, 100 µmol/L) and especially P
2
Y
12
(Cangrelor, 10 µmol/L) blunted CXCL16-triggered platelet activation as well as CXCL16-induced platelet adhesion under high arterial shear stress in vitro and after carotid ligation in vivo.

Conclusions:

The inflammatory chemokine CXCL16 triggers platelet activation and adhesion via CXC motif receptor 6–dependent phosphatidylinositide 3-kinase/Akt signaling and paracrine activation, suggesting a decisive role for CXCL16 in linking vascular inflammation and thrombo-occlusive diseases.
Blood Pressure in 12-Year–Old Children Is Associated With Fatty Acid Composition of Human Milk
Authors: van Rossem Lenie , Wijga Alet H. , de Jongste Johan C. , Koppelman Gerard H. , Oldenwening Marieke , Postma Dirkje S. , Abrahamse-Berkeveld Marieke , van de Heijning Bert , Brunekreef Bert , Smit Henriëtte A.
Published: August 2012

Breastfed individuals have a lower blood pressure than formula-fed individuals. Supplementation with n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in adults is also associated with a lower blood pressure. We studied whether children receiving human milk with a relatively high content of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids have a lower blood pressure at age 12 years, and, if so, whether this association is explained by the n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids content in erythrocyte membranes at age 12 years. Within a 12-year follow-up of a population-based birth cohort, we compared blood pressure of 205 never-breastfed children and 109 children who had fatty acid composition of their mothers’ breast milk measured during lactation. In addition, 973 children had information on erythrocyte fatty acid composition and blood pressure at age 12 years. Children who received human milk with an n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids content above the median (ie, 0.51 weight percentage) had a 4.79-mm Hg lower systolic (95% CI, −7.64 to −1.94) and a 2.47-mm Hg lower diastolic (95% CI, −4.45 to −0.49) blood pressure at age 12 years than never-breastfed children. N-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids levels in human milk below the median value and current n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid status were not associated with blood pressure at age 12 years. Thus, a relatively high content of n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in human milk is associated with a lower blood pressure in children at age 12 years, a finding not explained by current n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids status.
Invisible Artists, or the Net Without a Fisherman … (My Life in Mail Art)
Authors: Gutiérrez Marx Graciela G.
Published: August 2012

Perhaps we can think that mail art derives from Dada and link it to Fluxus, Filliou's proposal of an eternal network, and the highly innovative poetry and experimental art, born at the same time in different countries. GGMarx practiced collective creation, in poor areas of the southern cone of South America. In a broader and ideologically more sensitive context, a folk art appeared, thanks to the popular struggles in Cuba, México, Brazil, Chile, Bolivia, Peru, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Uruguay, Colombia, Ecuador and Argentina. The liberation movements, developed during the seventies, have marked the direction of Latin American mail-art intercourse. But they acquired their real strength in Argentina in 1976, when the Military Terrorist State was implanted and started the time of art = life.
Black Sea
Authors: Özgün Aras
Published: August 2012

“Black Sea” is a photo essay that consists of a series of vertically framed seascapes. The accompanying narrative text presents a “timescape” parallel to these seascapes; by bringing together pieces of memory and history, it tells the story of the people absent from the photographs — the Pontus (“sea”) Greeks who once lived on these coasts.
A Revolution in Consciousness: Dolfi Trost's Visible and
Invisible
Authors: Hansen Catherine
Published: August 2012

An introduction to and abridged translation of Romanian Surrealist Dolfi Trost's 1953 book Visible et Invisible. Trost was part of a semi-clandestine and infrequently studied Bucharest Surrealist group; his book is about forming a new kind of revolutionary collectivity on the basis of what he calls a self-regarding or “cosmic” consciousness” made manifest within certain forms of dreams, as well as on the basis of a “spiritually heightened schizophrenia.” Gilles Deleuze and Félix Guattari were attentive readers of his work, and I place the translation in the context of their anti-oedipal and schizoanalytic theories.
Developing Culturally Aware School Leaders
Authors: Richardson Jayson W. , Imig Scott , Ndoye Abdou
Published: August 2012

Developing globally minded citizens has become a national push and a stated priority for many higher education institutions in the United States. This article focuses on one university’s efforts to develop globally minded school leaders who are accepting of and comfortable with diversity. The University of North Carolina Wilmington has created an international practicum for master’s and doctoral-level students in the Educational Leadership Department. This study focuses on the outcomes of this international practicum. Data from this mixed methods study are presented on participants’ shifts in attitudes about cultural diversity as measured by the Miville-Guzman Universality Diversity Scale survey and interviews. The article also provides suggestions about processes and experiences necessary to support and facilitate participants’ shifts to embrace diversity and global perspectives.
The Long-Term Effects of Active Training Strategies on Improving Older Drivers’ Scanning in Intersections
Authors: Romoser Matthew R. E.
Published: August 2012

Objective:

To determine the long-term effects of active training on older drivers’ scanning in intersections, the present article reports the results of a 2-year follow-up with drivers who had previously participated the older driver training study reported in Romoser and Fisher.

Background:

Customized feedback coupled with active learning in a simulator has been shown to be an effective means of significantly improving the intersection scanning behavior of older drivers. However, the long-term effect of such training has not been established.

Method:

Older drivers from the active learning and control groups from Romoser and Fisher were invited to participate in a 2-year follow-up field drive in their own vehicle starting at their home. Secondary looks, defined as looking away from the path of the vehicle while entering the intersections toward regions to the side from which other vehicles could appear, were recorded.

Results:

Two years after their training, older drivers in the active learning group still took secondary looks more than one and a half times as often as 2009 pretraining levels. Control group drivers saw no significant change in performance over the 2-year period.

Conclusion:

Customized feedback and active learning in a simulator is an effective strategy for improving the safe driving habits of older drivers over the long term. It provides drivers a means by which to reincorporate previously extinguished behaviors into their driving habits.

Application:

These results can guide the development of older driver retraining programs that could have the potential to reduce intersection crashes.
African American Homeschooling as Racial Protectionism
Authors: Mazama Ama , Lundy Garvey
Published: August 2012

Academic interest in homeschooling has increased over the past decade, as what was once perceived as a marginal development has, in fact, turned into a significant and growing phenomenon. There has been, in recent years, a noticeable surge in African American involvement in the homeschooling movement as well. However, there continues to be a general paucity of research on the motivations of homeschooling Black parents. It is the purpose of this article, using an Afrocentric lens, (a) to explore one of the main reasons African Americans increasingly choose to educate their children at home, namely, their strong desire to protect their children from the ill effects of school-related racism; (b) to provide a historical and philosophical contextualization of the African American experience with racism in schools; and (c) to present empirical evidence regarding African American motivations for homeschooling.
Effects of immersion and sustained bending on water absorption and thermomechanical properties of ultraviolet cured glass fiber-reinforced acylate polymer composites
Authors: Xian Guijun , Li Hui , Su Xiansheng
Published: August 2012

An ultraviolet cured glass fiber-reinforced acylate polymer composite can be cured in several 10 sec, which is potentially used for quick repair of concrete structures. In the present paper, combined effects of water or alkaline solution immersion and sustained bending on its water absorption and thermomechanical properties were investigated. With increasing the sustained bending levels, water uptake and diffusion rate monotonically increased in ultraviolet cured glass fiber-reinforced acylate polymer. The combined effects lead to remarkable decreases in the tensile properties. More serious degradation of the tensile strength was found in the cases of higher sustained bending levels and/or alkaline solution immersion. After removal of sustained bending, residual deformation of samples was observed and depended on the bending levels and immersion medium, attributed to the orientation of the resin molecules. In all, 1% of water uptake led to about 8–9℃ reduction in the glass transition temperatures, regardless of sustained bending or immersion medium. The height of tan delta decrease with sustained bending levels indicates the occurrence of fiber debonding or delamination.
Preservice Music Teachers’ Employment Preferences
Authors: Robinson Nicole R.
Published: August 2012

This study was designed to investigate preservice music teachers’ ( N = 187) perceptions of employment preferences when considering future teaching positions. Adaptive Conjoint Analysis, a business market–based research tool, was used to determine preferences for personal factors (e.g., salary, commute), school environmental factors (e.g., administrative support, school type, student race-ethnicity, student socioeconomic status [SES]), and music teaching factors (e.g., resources, facilities, program sustainability, parental and community support). Results indicated that preservice music teachers perceived administrative support, parental and community support, and program sustainability as most important factors and student SES and student race-ethnicity composition as least important factors when considering future employment.
Differentiation in foreign business relationships: A study on small and medium-sized enterprises after their initial foreign market entry
Authors: Tolstoy Daniel
Published: August 2012

This article critically evaluates the notion that strategic flexibility related to products, business relationships and networks is critical for international small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) attempting to differentiate their firms in foreign business relationships. A model is developed to investigate the interrelatedness of these types of flexibility and their discrete effects on business differentiation in foreign business relationships. It is used to analyse a dataset covering 314 Swedish SMEs; the types of flexibility investigated were found to have positive effects (direct and indirect) on differentiation in foreign business relationships.