bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HCIR 2011
Authors: Capra Robert , Golovchinsky Gene , Kules Bill , Russell Dan , Smith Catherine L. , Tunkelang Daniel , White Ryen W.
Published: January 2012

This report describes the 2011 Workshop on Human-Computer Interaction and Information Retrieval. Now in its fifth year, the workshop was held in October, in Mountain View, CA. The event brings together researchers from academia, industry, and government and a range of disciplines for in-depth discussions in an informal atmosphere. The workshop continues to grow, with around 100 attendees this year. We continued the HCIR Challenge, this time focusing on the problem of information availability, with four in-depth system demonstrations, and audience selection of a challenge winner.
Impact of Circulating Vitamin D Binding Protein Levels on the Association between 25-Hydroxyvitamin D and Pancreatic Cancer Risk: A Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Weinstein Stephanie J. , Stolzenberg-Solomon Rachael Z. , Kopp William , Rager Helen , Virtamo Jarmo , Albanes Demetrius
Published: January 2012

High concentrations of circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] have been associated with elevated pancreatic cancer risk. As this is contrary to an expected inverse association between vitamin D status and cancer, we examined whether vitamin D binding protein (DBP), the primary carrier of vitamin D compounds in circulation, plays a role in this relationship. Prediagnostic serum DBP and 25(OH)D were studied in relation to risk of pancreatic cancer in a nested case–control study of 234 cases and 234 controls in the Alpha-Tocopherol, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Study of Finnish men. ORs and 95% CIs were estimated using logistic regression, and statistical tests were two-sided. We found that DBP and 25(OH)D were correlated (r = 0.27, P < 0.0001), and DBP was inversely associated with pancreatic cancer risk (OR = 0.66, 95% CI = 0.39–1.12, for the highest vs. lowest quartile; Ptrend = 0.02). Importantly, this association seemed to have a threshold between quartiles 2 to 4 and quartile 1, and was primarily evident among men with concurrent high 25(OH)D concentrations (OR = 0.33, 95% CI = 0.16–0.70 for highest vs. lowest quartile; Ptrend = 0.002), with no association in men with lower serum 25(OH)D (OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 0.62–2.61 for highest vs. lowest quartile, Ptrend 0.63, Pinteraction = 0.01). Men with higher 25(OH)D concentrations and serum DBP below the median showed greatly elevated risk of pancreatic cancer (OR = 5.01, 95% CI 2.33–10.78, for highest vs. lowest quartile; Ptrend < 0.0001), while risk was weakly inversely associated with serum 25(OH)D when DBP concentrations were higher (Pinteraction = 0.001). Taken together, our findings indicate that higher DBP concentrations may sequester more 25(OH)D and reduce free 25(OH)D bioavailability. Simultaneous examination of DBP and 25(OH)D may be important in determining the association of vitamin D with cancer risk. Cancer Res; 72(5); 1190–8. ©2012 AACR.
WNT7A Regulates Tumor Growth and Progression in Ovarian Cancer through the WNT/β-Catenin Pathway
Authors: Yoshioka Shin , King Mandy L. , Ran Sophia , Okuda Hiroshi , MacLean James A. , McAsey Mary E. , Sugino Norihiro , Brard Laurent , Watabe Kounosuke , Hayashi Kanako
Published: January 2012

Abnormal activation the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway has been associated with ovarian carcinomas, but a specific WNT ligand and pertinent downstream mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we found abundant WNT7A in the epithelium of serous ovarian carcinomas, but not detected in borderline and benign tumors, normal ovary, or endometrioid carcinomas. To characterize the role of WNT7A in ovarian tumor growth and progression, nude mice were injected either intraperitoneally or subcutaneously with WNT7A knocked down SKOV3.ip1 and overexpressed SKOV3 cells. In the intraperitoneal group, mice receiving SKOV3.ip1 cells with reduced WNT7A expression developed significantly fewer tumor lesions. Gross and histologic examination revealed greatly reduced invasion of WNT7A knockdown cells into intestinal mesentery and serosa compared with the control cells. Tumor growth was regulated by loss or overexpression of WNT7A in mice receiving subcutaneous injection as well. In vitro analysis of cell function revealed that cell proliferation, adhesion, and invasion were regulated by WNT7A. The activity of the T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer factor (TCF/LEF) reporter was stimulated by overexpression of WNT7A in ovarian cancer cells. Cotransfection with WNT7A and FZD5 receptor further increased activity, and this effect was inhibited by cotransfection with SFRP2 or dominant negative TCF4. Overexpression of WNT7A stimulated matrix metalloproteinase 7 (MMP7) promoter, and mutation of TCF-binding sites in MMP7 promoter confirmed that activation of MMP7 promoter by WNT7A was mediated by β-catenin/TCF signaling. Collectively, these results suggest that reexpression of WNT7A during malignant transformation of ovarian epithelial cells plays a critical role in ovarian cancer progression mediated by WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Mol Cancer Res; 10(3); 469–82. ©2012 AACR.
In Situ Analysis of Mutant EGFRs Prevalent in Glioblastoma Multiforme Reveals Aberrant Dimerization, Activation, and Differential Response to Anti-EGFR Targeted Therapy
Authors: Gajadhar Aaron S. , Bogdanovic Elena , Muñoz Diana Marcela , Guha Abhijit
Published: January 2012

Aberrations in epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR/ErbB1) are the most common oncogenic alterations in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most common primary brain tumor. Interactions between wild-type (wt) and mutant EGFRs and their subsequent activation are of biologic and potential therapeutic importance in GBMs. We recently showed that in situ proximity ligation assay (PLA) allows for quantitative evaluation of EGFR dimerization and activation in intact cells. Using this in situ platform, we show the aberrant homo-/heterodimeric properties of EGFRvIII and EGFRc958 mutants, the two most common EGFR mutants in GBMs. In addition, dimer phosphoactivation status could be detected by PLA with superior signal–noise ratio (>17-fold) and sensitivity (>16-fold) than immunofluorescence-based phospho-EGFR measurements. Dimer activation analysis indicated quantitative activation differences of mutant dimers. These aberrant features were not overexpression dependent but appeared independent of cellular expression levels, suggesting inherent properties of the mutant receptors. Moreover, we observed in situ detection of EGFRwt-EGFRvIII heterodimerization in GBM specimens, supporting our cell line observations. Notably, currently used anti-EGFR therapeutics, such as cetuximab, matuzumab, and panitumumab, could effectively block EGFRwt dimerization and activation but did not equally impair EGFRvIII homodimers, EGFRwt-EGFRvIII, or EGFRvIII-EGFRc958 heterodimers. EGFRvIII appears to have intrinsic phosphoactivation independent of dimerization as matuzumab blockade of homodimerization had no effect on receptor phosphorylation levels. These data suggest differences in the dimerization-blocking efficacy of EGFR monoclonal antibodies as mutant EGFR dimer configurations prevalent in GBMs can evade blockade by anti-EGFR treatments. Further studies are warranted to evaluate whether this evasion contributes to poor therapeutic response or resistance. Mol Cancer Res; 10(3); 428–40. ©2012 AACR.
Platinum-Based Compounds for the Treatment of Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Shamseddine Ali I. , Farhat Fadi S.
Published: January 2012

The role of platinum-based compounds (PBCs) in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer (MBC) has been extensively studied. As single agents, high response rates have been observed in first-line therapy, while results in pretreated patients were discouraging. Regimens containing cisplatin/carboplatin together with taxanes showed the highest efficacy and safety as both first-line and second-line therapy. When administered with vinorelbine, the combination was also active and well tolerated in anthracycline- and taxane-pretreated patients. Combining PBCs with etoposide or nucleoside analogues showed moderate activity, yet high toxicity in the case of etoposide. The overall results for the combination with anthracyclines were disappointing. Addition of trastuzumab to PBC combinations showed remarkable activity and good tolerability in patients with HER2/neu overexpression. The use of cisplatin or carboplatin alongside novel targeted therapeutics for patients with triple-negative MBC seems promising and is being further evaluated. The use of PBCs against MBC requires careful patient selection and combination with the right chemotherapeutic agent.
A Case of Charcotian grande hystérie: Observation by Julien Offray de La Mettrie in 1738
Authors: Walusinski Olivier
Published: January 2012

Julien Offray de La Mettrie (1709–1751) is a French philosopher who owes his fame to his materialist ideas. He was also a provocative atheist who used his scathing pen to defend the first concept of a theory of mind. We offer here one of his little-known works, reporting on a case of grande hystérie, as Jean-Martin Charcot (1825–1893) and his student Paul Richer (1849–1933) would describe the condition 150 years later. After discussing how La Mettrie interpreted this observation, we will compare it to interpretations developed during the 19th century, in particular by the La Salpêtrière school.
Effectiveness of interventions to improve medication adherence in bipolar disorder
Authors: Crowe Marie , Porter Richard , Inder Maree , Lacey Cameron , Carlyle Dave , Wilson Lynere
Published: January 2012

Objective: To identify interventions that improve medication adherence in bipolar disorder.

Method: A review of the literature from 2004 to 2011 was conducted using Medline and manual searching.

Results: Eleven studies were identified as meeting inclusion criteria. Five studies demonstrated improved medication adherence. No characteristics of the interventions, clinical characteristics of the groups or methodological factors distinguished those psychosocial interventions that demonstrated improvement from those that did not.

Conclusions: While only a few interventions improved adherence, most improved clinical outcomes. Issues were also identified about the way in which adherence is defined. It is proposed that incorporating patient preferences into measures of adherence within the context of a disorder-specific psychosocial intervention may provide an approach that demonstrates both improved adherence and improved clinical outcomes. However this requires further research.
Psychiatrists and termination of pregnancy: Clinical, legal and ethical aspects
Authors: Morris Kirsty , Savell Kristin , Ryan Christopher J
Published: January 2012

Objective: To provide practical guidance for psychiatrists asked to conduct an assessment of a woman requesting a termination of pregnancy.

Method: The law relevant to termination of pregnancy in each of the Australian states and territories and in New Zealand was synthesised and reviewed, as was the available literature around the key roles for the psychiatrist in these settings.

Results: Little is known about the rates of and reasons for terminations in Australasia. The ‘lawfulness’ of termination varies between jurisdictions and might require a consideration of the woman’s mental health. When psychiatrists are asked to assist, their roles can be divided into: assessment and management of the woman’s mental health, assessment of the woman’s capacity to consent to the termination, assessment of the impact of having a termination or not having a termination upon the woman’s mental health, assistance in determining the lawfulness of the proposed termination and, finally, support of the obstetric team providing terminations.

Conclusions: The psychiatric assessment of a woman requesting a termination of pregnancy requires an understanding of the ethical issues, the relevant law and a clinical framework within which the psychiatrist can delineate his or her various roles.
Private health insurance, mental health and service use in Australia
Authors: Leach Liana S , Butterworth Peter , Whiteford Harvey
Published: January 2012

Objective: To report on the private health insurance (PHI) status of individuals with and without a mental health problem, and examine whether PHI status is associated with access to psychological services.

Methods: This is a descriptive study of nationally representative population-based data collected in 2009 (HILDA) with participants aged 15–93 ( n = 13,301). Key measures included: PHI status (categorised as ‘hospital cover only’, ‘extras cover only’, or ‘both hospital and extras cover’); mental health status (categorised as ‘have a mental health problem’ or ‘do not have a mental health problem’ using the Mental Health Index (MHI) of the Medical Outcomes Study Short Form); mental health service use (access to a mental health professional (psychologist/psychiatrist) in the past 12 months categorised as ‘yes’ or ‘no’).

Results: Individuals with a mental health problem were less likely to have PHI than those without a mental health problem. However, PHI was not associated with access to a mental health professional in the past 12 months.

Conclusions: The findings suggest that while the discrepancy in PHI status is a marker of inequity between those with and without a mental health problem, it is not a key factor in facilitating access to mental health services.
Over-adjustment or miscomprehension? A re-examination of the jumping to conclusions bias
Authors: Balzan Ryan P , Delfabbro Paul H , Galletly Cherrie A , Woodward Todd S
Published: January 2012

Objective: Previous research has consistently shown that individuals with delusions typically exhibit a jumping to conclusions (JTC) bias when administered the probabilistic reasoning ‘beads task’ (i.e. decisions made with limited evidence or ‘premature decisions’ and decisions over-adjusted in light of disconfirming evidence or ‘over-adjustment’). More recent work, however, also suggests that these effects may also be influenced by miscomprehension of the task. The current paper is an investigation into the contributing effects of miscomprehension on the JTC bias.

Method: A total of 75 participants (25 diagnosed with schizophrenia with a history of delusions; 25 non-clinical delusion-prone; 25 non-delusion-prone controls) completed two identical versions of the beads task, distinct only by the inclusion of an extra instructional set designed to increase comprehension.

Results: Qualitative data confirmed that miscomprehension is a valid construct, and the results showed that the addition of an instructional set to the second version of the task led to greater comprehension and a statistically significant drop in ‘over-adjustment’. Nevertheless, both tasks showed that ‘premature decisions’ were significantly more prevalent in the schizophrenia group and were unaffected by the intervention.

Conclusions: It was concluded that the ‘premature decisions’ component of the JTC bias remains a feature of decision-making in schizophrenia, but that previously reported ‘over-adjustment’ effects are likely to be influenced by miscomprehension of the beads task instructional set. These findings are discussed in light of the recently proposed ‘hypersalience of evidence-hypothesis matches’ account of the JTC bias.
Risk factors for suicidal ideation in Korean middle-aged adults: The role of socio-demographic status
Authors: Moon Sang-Sik , Park Sang-Mi
Published: January 2012

Background:

The investigations of the risk factors for suicidal ideation among middle-aged adults may be especially important for predicting suicidal actions, given the steep increase in suicide among Koreans aged 45–54. Few studies have sought to investigate the effect of socio-demographic status on suicidal ideation among middle-aged adults.

Objective:

This study investigated the influence of socio-demographic status on suicidal ideation among middle-aged adults in South Korea.

Methods:

The sample consisted of middle-aged men ( n = 3,214) and middle-aged women ( n = 4,087) aged 40–64 years who had participated in the 2005 cross-sectional Seoul Citizens Health and Social Indicators Survey. Using multiple logistic regression analysis, we examined the effect of socio-demographic status, health behaviours and health status on suicidal ideation in middle-aged adults.

Results:

The outstanding finding was that suicidal ideation was most prevalent among middle-aged women who engaged in manual labour (i.e. blue-collar workers) (OR = 2.77, 95% CI = 1.20–6.42). The absence of a spouse was significantly associated with suicidal ideation among middle-aged men (OR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.30–3.40).

Conclusions:

The effect of enhanced security related to stable employment was strongest among middle-aged women in blue-collar jobs, and the effect of intensive counselling services was strongest among divorced or widowed middle-aged men.
Pharmacokinetics of Daily Self‐Application of Imiquimod 3.75% Cream in Adult Patients With External Anogenital Warts
Authors: Wu Jason , Feldman Robert , Barry Gabrielle T. , Kulp James , Adams Michael P. , Levy Sharon
Published: January 2012

Imiquimod 3.75% cream is a new formulation intended for daily self‐application. The objective of this study was to characterize serum imiquimod pharmacokinetics under maximal use conditions. Adults with ≥8 warts or total wart area ≥100 mm2 applied up to 1 packet of imiquimod 3.75% cream (250 mg cream, 9.375 mg imiquimod) once daily for 3 weeks. Blood was obtained prior to doses 1, 7, 14, and 21 and at selected time points after doses 1 and 21. Eighteen patients (13 men and 5 women) with a median wart count of 16 and total wart area of 60 mm2 were enrolled. Day 21 mean (SD) serum Cmax was 0.49 (0.37) ng/mL, AUC0–24 6.80 (3.59) ng·h/mL, and t1/2 24.1 (12.4) hours. Steady state was achieved by day 7 with ∼2‐fold increase in Cmax and AUC after multiple dosing. Overall, Cmax was higher and tmax shorter in women, with comparable AUC0–24. Imiquimod metabolites were sporadically quantifiable. No patients discontinued for adverse events; 1 interrupted dosing for an application site ulcer. Treatment‐related adverse events occurred in 16.7% of the patients. In conclusion, serum imiquimod concentrations were low after daily self‐application to external anogenital warts of up to 1 packet of imiquimod 3.75% cream for 21 days.
The Pattern of Platelet Response to Clopidogrel in Iranian Patients After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Namazi Soha , Khalili Andia , Kojuri Javad , Azarpira Negar
Published: January 2012

Despite certain clinical benefit in using clopidogrel in patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), some patients do not attain adequate antiplatelet effects. In this study, the authors investigated the response to clopidogrel in Iranian patients after PCI. Patients who were candidates for elective PCI were enrolled in this study. All patients had received aspirin 80 to 325 mg daily for ≥1 week before PCI. Blood samples were taken from patients at baseline, 2 hours after taking a 600‐mg loading dose of clopidogrel, and 24 hours and 30 days after stenting. Platelet aggregation was measured by light transmittance aggregometry with adenosine diphosphate (5 and 20 μM) and arachidonic acid (500 and 5000 μg/mL). One hundred twelve patients were included (79 men, 33 women). Maximal and minimal clopidogrel nonresponsiveness occurred at 2 hours (26%) and 48 hours (13%) after taking 600 mg clopidogrel, respectively. Pretreatment platelet reactivity had no effects on posttreatment platelet reactivity. Moreover, clopidogrel responsiveness did not correlate with pretreatment reactivity. Patients' demographic and procedural characteristics had no significant effect on clopidogrel responsiveness. The frequency of clopidogrel nonresponsiveness in this study was similar to other studies. However, clopidogrel required more than 2 hours for induction of its maximal antiplatelet effect in this study.
Collecting Objects
Authors: Basak Bishnupriya
Published: January 2012

The second half of the nineteenth century witnessed an enhanced role for museums in Great Britain. There was also a parallel growth in private collections and an eagerness to collect souvenirs from distant lands. Material culture emerged as an important means to understand the evolutionary history of humankind. The development of archaeology and anthropology may be situated in this backdrop. The Pitt Rivers Museum in Oxford was founded in 1884 with a founding collection of archaeological and ethnographic objects from around the world. The donor was Augustus Henry Lane Fox, better known as Col. Pitt Rivers. The Indian collection of archaeological objects, amassed over the succeeding years, forms the subject of this article. I attempt to show how the colony and the metropolis were tied in a broad network of connections. I also argue that this enterprise of ‘collecting’—participated in by colonial servants, missionaries and others—lent an important dimension to the beginning of prehistoric research in the subcontinent.
Determination of sharp V-notch stress intensity factors using the extended finite element method
Authors: Yu Tiantang , Shi Luyang
Published: January 2012

An extended finite element method scheme for sharp V-notches is developed. The method allows the representation of notch faces independent of the mesh. This is achieved by enriching the finite element approximation of the nodes surrounding the notch tip with the first term of the notch tip asymptotic field and the nodes that intersect the notch faces with a jump enrichment function using a partition of unity method. The least-squares method is used to evaluate the stress intensity factors of sharp V-notches. Numerical simulations demonstrate the accuracy and the robustness of the proposed technique.
Pain in the ICU
Authors: Azzam Pierre N. , Alam Abdulkader
Published: January 2012

Pain is abundant in the intensive care unit (ICU). Successful analgesia demands a comprehensive appreciation for the etiologies of pain, vigilant clinical assessment, and personalized treatments. For the critically ill, frequent threats to mental and bodily integrity magnify the experience of pain, challenging clinicians to respond swiftly and thoughtfully. Because pain is difficult to predict and physiologic correlates are not specific, self-report remains the gold standard assessment. When communication is limited by intubation or cognitive deficits, behavioral pain scales prove useful. Patient-tailored analgesia aspires to mitigate suffering while optimizing alertness and cognitive capacity. Mindfulness of the neuropsychiatric features of pain helps the ICU clinician to clarify limits of traditional analgesia and identify alternative approaches to care. Armed with empirical data and clinical practice recommendations to better conceptualize, identify, and treat pain and its neuropsychiatric comorbidities, the authors (psychiatric consultants, by trade) reinforce holistic approaches to pain management in the ICU. After all, without attempts to understand and relieve suffering on all fronts, pain will remain undertreated.
Surface and volumetric effects in a fluid subjected to high-frequency vibration
Authors: Blekhman Iliya I , Blekhman Leonid I , Sorokin Vladislav S , Vasilkov Vladislav B , Yakimova Kira S
Published: January 2012

In this article, the results of experimental study of surface and volumetric effects arising in a fluid under the action of high-frequency vibration are considered. Some elements in the theory of the surface effects are analyzed with regard to their origin and interrelations with other similar phenomena. The height of splashing fountains on the fluid surface is assessed based on the analogy with particle bounce over a vibrating plane. It is found that the influence of vibration on the average velocity of fluid flow is more pronounced at such excitation parameters that enhance the surface effects under study, namely, the formation of cellular structures (Faraday ripple), the creation of turbulence in the fluid surface layer and splashing. The analytical study of motion of a bubble in an oscillating volume of a fluid, saturated with gas at a certain depth, is provided, with compressibility of both the bubble and surrounding gas-saturated fluid layer being taken into account. The condition of bubble sinking in such a compressible medium and the condition of vibrational instability of the separate state of the gas–fluid system are determined.
Macrophagic myofasciitis: characterization and pathophysiology
Authors: Gherardi RK , Authier FJ
Published: January 2012

Aluminium oxyhydroxide (alum), a nanocrystalline compound forming agglomerates, has been used in vaccines for its immunological adjuvant effect since 1927. Alum is the most commonly used adjuvant in human and veterinary vaccines, but the mechanisms by which it stimulates immune responses remain incompletely understood. Although generally well tolerated, alum may occasionally cause disabling health problems in presumably susceptible individuals. A small proportion of vaccinated people present with delayed onset of diffuse myalgia, chronic fatigue and cognitive dysfunction, and exhibit very long-term persistence of alum-loaded macrophages at the site of previous intramuscular (i.m.) immunization, forming a granulomatous lesion called macrophagic myofasciitis (MMF). Clinical symptoms associated with MMF are paradigmatic of the recently delineated ‘autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants’ (ASIA). The stereotyped cognitive dysfunction is reminiscent of cognitive deficits described in foundry workers exposed to inhaled Al particles. Alum safety concerns will largely depend on whether the compound remains localized at the site of injection or diffuses and accumulates in distant organs. Animal experiments indicate that biopersistent nanomaterials taken up by monocyte-lineage cells in tissues, such as fluorescent alum surrogates, can first translocate to draining lymph nodes, and thereafter circulate in blood within phagocytes and reach the spleen, and, eventually, slowly accumulate in the brain.
Proposing a Welfare Framework for the Society and Local Community Stakeholders
Authors: Shah Shashank
Published: January 2012

In India, society and social welfare has always been an important part of business and its broad objectives. From Merchant Charity to Corporate Citizenship, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has undergone a lot of change over the past many centuries. Whatever be the nomenclature, the objective remains the same—ensuring the welfare of the society and local community as an important stakeholder of an organization. While many companies use CSR as a strategic tool, many others undertake CSR activities for genuine altruism. In both cases, CSR can be a very powerful tool for inclusive growth—the need of the hour. In this article, an attempt has been made through a mixed method study of proposing a Society and Local Community Welfare Framework. The quantitative data is gathered through an Executive Perception Survey wherein 400 responses from 125 organizations were gained and statistical analyses of the same were undertaken by the author. The qualitative data was gathered through personal interactions with senior management executives from nine eminent corporate organizations across industry categories. The framework and its major components are thus based on empirical data of practices as existent in corporate India today. Thus, the framework could be considered as a working model of CSR in India.
Creating fear: The social construction of human Growth Hormone as a dangerous doping drug
Authors: López Bernat
Published: January 2012

This article examines how the lay press and the expert literature have contributed to spreading the bad image of human Growth Hormone as a doping drug despite the lack of a solid scientific grounds proving its alleged deleterious side-effects. The analysis of the press coverage shows that the drug has been associated with a number of negative concepts and mainly with several health hazards and even (indirectly) with death, through the insistence on the fact that it used to be extracted from cadavers prior to 1985. The expert literature review unveils that a vast majority of the claims about the negative side-effects of the drug contained in the reviewed articles and book chapters are actually suppositions or deductions, not based in actual empirical research. The story about the use of cadaveric hGH is also lavishly quoted by the expert literature. The true available scientific evidence points only to mild side-effects of hGH supplementation in healthy adults. It is therefore concluded that this discourse can be labelled as ideological rather than factual or scientific. These claims have become common sense or naturalized knowledge, and have ultimately become instrumental in the anti-doping campaign succeeding in imposing its perspective on doping and its radical recipes to eradicate it.
What psychiatrists should know about sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
Authors: Power Brian , Trivedi Darshan , Samuel Mathew
Published: January 2012

Objective: To provide psychiatrists with relevant, up to date information about sporadic Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Conclusions: A 59-year-old bookkeeper presented with psychiatric symptoms in the context of stressors and past history of depression, for which her GP prescribed sertraline and olanzapine. Following a further deterioration in her mental state she was referred to acute psychiatric services, and there found to have dementia and myoclonus, and investigations supported a diagnosis of probable Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, sporadic type (sCJD). This paper serves to outline the emerging literature challenging the notion that suggests psychiatric symptoms are uncommon in the presentation of sCJD.
The emperor’s edicts stop at the village gate
Authors: O’Connor Nick , Kotze Beth , Vine Ruth , Patton Murray , Newton Richard
Published: January 2012

Objective: To present an overview of policy implementation, and develop principles for effective policy development and implementation.

Method: An overview of literature on policy implementation, and analysis of lessons from some recent experiences in Australian and New Zealand mental health services.

Conclusions: Effective development and deployment of policy is much more complex than the commonly held, simplistic compliance model. There are principles that can guide effective policy development and implementation. Future areas of study include the policy implementation systems and change management processes in the health service setting.
Weaving Social Media Into a Business Proposal Project
Authors: Li Xiaoli
Published: January 2012

Given that students are enthusiastic about social media or even have expertise in some social media tools, the author decided to design a class project in her Writing for Careers (Business Communication) class that integrates social media in terms of content and project management. This article intends to describe such a class project design as well as the working process; reflect on such a practice by reviewing students’ feedback, examining the final products, and assessing the learning outcomes; and finally provide suggestions on how to improve this project.
The 2011 NASN Membership Survey
Authors: Bergren Martha Dewey , Monsalve Lina
Published: January 2012

In 2011, NASN conducted a needs assessment to identify and analyze member demographic trends and identify priorities for current members. Ninety-five percent of survey respondents were currently registered nurses, 1% were licensed practical nurses, 3% were advance practice registered nurses, and 1% had other types of licensure. School nurses’ ages ranged between 21 and 66+ years of age with the highest concentration of school nurses (63%) older than 51 years of age. Thirty-one percent of respondents were nationally certified through the National Board for the Certification of School Nurses. Eighty-three percent had a bachelor’s degree or higher. Fifteen percent had a master’s in nursing, and another 15% held a master’s in another field. Nine percent of respondents had an associate’s degree in nursing and 4% had a registered nurse diploma as their highest level of education. The typical NASN member is a female, registered nurse with a bachelor’s degree who is over the age of 50.
Aspirin-insensitive thromboxane biosynthesis in essential thrombocythemia is explained by accelerated renewal of the drug target
Authors: Pascale Silvia , Petrucci Giovanna , Dragani Alfredo , Habib Aida , Zaccardi Francesco , Pagliaccia Francesca , Pocaterra Davide , Ragazzoni Enzo , Rolandi Giancarlo , Rocca Bianca , Patrono Carlo
Published: January 2012

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is characterized by enhanced platelet generation and thrombotic complications. Once-daily low-dose aspirin incompletely inhibits platelet thromboxane A2 (TXA2) in the majority of ET patients. In the present study, we investigated the determinants of aspirin-insensitive platelet TXA2 biosynthesis and whether it could be further suppressed by changing the aspirin dose, formulation, or dosing interval. In 41 aspirin-treated ET patients, the immature platelet count predicted serum TXB2 independently of platelet count, age, JAK-2 V617F mutation, or cytoreduction (β = 3.53, P = .001). Twenty-one aspirin-treated patients with serum TXB2 ≥ 4 ng/mL at 24 hours after dosing were randomized to the following 7-day regimens in a crossover design: enteric-coated aspirin 100 mg twice daily, enteric-coated aspirin 200 mg once daily, or plain aspirin 100 mg once daily. A twice-daily regimen caused a further 88% median (IQR, 78%-92%, P < .001) TXB2 reduction and normalized the functional platelet response to aspirin, as assessed by urinary 11-dehydro-TXB2 excretion and the VerifyNow Aspirin assay. Doubling the aspirin dose reduced serum TXB2 only partially by 39% median (IQR, 29%-54%, P < .05). We conclude that the abnormal megakaryopoiesis characterizing ET accounts for a shorter-lasting antiplatelet effect of low-dose aspirin through faster renewal of platelet cyclooxygenase-1, and impaired platelet inhibition can be rescued by modulating the aspirin dosing interval rather than the dose.
Regulator of G-protein signaling 18 integrates activating and inhibitory signaling in platelets
Authors: Gegenbauer Kristina , Elia Giuliano , Blanco-Fernandez Alfonso , Smolenski Albert
Published: January 2012

Regulator of G-protein signaling 18 (RGS18) is a GTPase-activating protein for the G-α-q and G-α-i subunits of heterotrimeric G-proteins that turns off signaling by G-protein coupled receptors. RGS18 is highly expressed in platelets. In the present study, we show that the 14-3-3γ protein binds to phosphorylated serines 49 and 218 of RGS18. Platelet activation by thrombin, thromboxane A2, or ADP stimulates the association of 14-3-3 and RGS18, probably by increasing the phosphorylation of serine 49. In contrast, treatment of platelets with prostacyclin and nitric oxide, which trigger inhibitory cyclic nucleotide signaling involving cyclic AMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) and cyclic GMP-dependent protein kinase I (PKGI), induces the phosphorylation of serine 216 of RGS18 and the detachment of 14-3-3. Serine 216 phosphorylation is able to block 14-3-3 binding to RGS18 even in the presence of thrombin, thromboxane A2, or ADP. 14-3-3–deficient RGS18 is more active compared with 14-3-3–bound RGS18, leading to a more pronounced inhibition of thrombin-induced release of calcium ions from intracellular stores. Therefore, PKA- and PKGI-mediated detachment of 14-3-3 activates RGS18 to block Gq-dependent calcium signaling. These findings indicate cross-talk between platelet activation and inhibition pathways at the level of RGS18 and Gq.
High-dose clevudine impairs mitochondrial function and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in INS-1E cells
Authors: Jang Yoon-Ok , Quan Xianglan , Das Ranjan , Xu Shanhua , Chung Choon-Hee , Ahn Chan Mug , Baik Soon-Koo , Kong In Deok , Park Kyu-Sang , Kim Moon Young
Published: January 2012

Background

Clevudine is a nucleoside analog reverse transcriptase inhibitor that exhibits potent antiviral activity against hepatitis B virus (HBV) without serious side effects. However, mitochondrial myopathy has been observed in patients with chronic HBV infection taking clevudine. Moreover, the development of diabetes was recently reported in patients receiving long-term treatment with clevudine. In this study, we investigated the effects of clevudine on mitochondrial function and insulin release in a rat clonal β-cell line, INS-1E.

Methods

The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and the mRNA levels were measured by using quantitative PCR. MTT analysis, ATP/lactate measurements, and insulin assay were performed.

Results

Both INS-1E cells and HepG2 cells, which originated from human hepatoma, showed dose-dependent decreases in mtDNA copy number and cytochrome c oxidase-1 (Cox-1) mRNA level following culture with clevudine (10 μM-1 mM) for 4 weeks. INS-1E cells treated with clevudine had reduced total mitochondrial activities, lower cytosolic ATP contents, enhanced lactate production, and more lipid accumulation. Insulin release in response to glucose application was markedly decreased in clevudine-treated INS-1E cells, which might be a consequence of mitochondrial dysfunction.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that high-dose treatment with clevudine induces mitochondrial defects associated with mtDNA depletion and impairs glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in insulin-releasing cells. These findings partly explain the development of diabetes in patients receiving clevudine who might have a high susceptibility to mitochondrial toxicity.
Klebsiella pneumoniaerelated community-acquired acute lower respiratory infections in Cambodia: Clinical characteristics and treatment
Authors: Rammaert Blandine , Goyet Sophie , Beauté Julien , Hem Sopheak , Te Vantha , Try Patrich Lorn , Mayaud Charles , Borand Laurence , Buchy Philippe , Guillard Bertrand , Vong Sirenda
Published: January 2012

Background

In many Asian countries,Klebsiella pneumoniae(KP) is the second pathogen responsible for community-acquired pneumonia. Yet, very little is known aboutKPetiology in ALRI in Cambodia, a country that has one of the weakest medical infrastructures in the region. We present here the first clinico-radiological description ofKPcommunity-acquired ALRI in hospitalized Cambodian patients.

Methods

Through ALRI surveillance in two provincial hospitals,KPwas isolated from sputum and blood cultures, and identified by API20E gallery from patients ≥ 5 years-old with fever and respiratory symptoms onset ≤14 days. Antibiotics susceptibility testing was provided systematically to clinicians when bacteria were isolated. We collected patients' clinical, radiological and microbiological data and their outcome 3 months after discharge. We also comparedKP-related with other bacteria-related ALRI to determine risk factors forKPinfection.

Results

From April 2007 to December 2009, 2315 ALRI patients ≥ 5 years-old were enrolled including 587 whose bacterial etiology could be assigned. Of these, 47 (8.0%) hadKPinfection; their median age was 55 years and 68.1% were females. Reported prior medication was high (42.5%). Patients' chest radiographs showed pneumonia (61.3% including 39% that were necrotizing), preexisting parenchyma lesions (29.5%) and pleural effusions alone (4.5%) and normal parenchyma (4.5%). Five patients had severe conditions on admission and one patient died during hospitalization. Of the 39 patients that were hospital discharged, 14 died including 12 within 1 month after discharge. Only 13 patients (28%) received an appropriate antibiotherapy. Extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBL) - producing strains were found in 8 (17.0%) patients. Female gender (Odds ratio (OR) 2.1;p= 0.04) and diabetes mellitus (OR 3.1;p= 0.03) were independent risk factors forKP-related ALRI.

Conclusions

KPALRI in Cambodia has high fatality rate, are more frequently found in women, and should be considered in diabetic patients. The extremely high frequency of ESBL-producing strains in the study is alarming in the context of uncontrolled antibiotic consumption and in absence of microbiology capacity in most public-sector hospitals.
Cocaine use during pregnancy assessed by hair analysis in a Canary Islands cohort
Authors: Joya Xavier , Gomez-Culebras Mario , Callejón Alicia , Friguls Bibiana , Puig Carme , Ortigosa Sandra , Morini Luca , Garcia-Algar Oscar , Vall Oriol
Published: January 2012

Background

Drug use during pregnancy is difficult to ascertain, and maternal reports are likely to be inaccurate. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of illicit drug use among pregnant women by using maternal hair analysis.

Methods

A toxicological analysis of hair was used to detect chronic recreational drug use during pregnancy. In 2007, 347 mother-infant dyads were included from the Hospital La Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands (Spain). Data on socioeconomic characteristics and on substance misuse during pregnancy were collected using a structured questionnaire. Drugs of abuse: opiates, cocaine, cannabinoids and amphetamines were detected in maternal hair by immunoassay followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for confirmation and quantitation.

Results

Hair analysis revealed 2.6% positivity for cocaine and its metabolites. Use of cocaine during pregnancy was associated with unusual behaviour with potentially harmful effects on the baby.

Conclusions

The results of the study demonstrate significant cocaine use by pregnant women in Canary Islands. The data should be used for the purpose of preventive health and policy strategies aimed to detect and possibly to avoid in the future prenatal exposure to drugs of abuse.
Fibroid explants reveal a higher sensitivity against MDM2-inhibitor nutlin-3 than matching myometrium
Authors: Markowski Dominique N , Helmke Burkhard M , Radtke Arlo , Froeb Jennifer , Belge Gazanfer , Bartnitzke Sabine , Wosniok Werner , Czybulka-Jachertz Iris , Deichert Ulrich , Bullerdiek Jörn
Published: January 2012

Background

Spontaneous cessation of growth is a frequent finding in uterine fibroids. Increasing evidence suggests an important role of cellular senescence in this growth control. Deciphering the underlying mechanisms of growth control that can be expected not only to shed light on the biology of the tumors but also to identify novel therapeutic targets.

Methods

We have analyzed uterine leiomyomas and matching normal tissue for the expression of p14Arf and used explants to see if reducing the MDM2 activity using the small-molecule inhibitor nutlin-3 can induce p53 and activate genes involved in senescence and/or apoptosis. For these studies quantitative real-time RT-PCR, Western blots, and immunohistochemistry were used. Statistical analyses were performed using the student's t test.

Results

An in depth analysis of 52 fibroids along with matching myometrium from 31 patients revealed in almost all cases a higher expression of p14Arf in the tumors than in the matching normal tissue. In tissue explants, treatment with the MDM2 inhibitor nutlin-3 induced apoptosis as well as senescence as revealed by a dose-dependent increase of the expression of BAX as well as of p21, respectively. Simultaneously, the expression of the proliferation marker Ki-67 drastically decreased. Western-blot analysis identified an increase of the p53 level as the most likely reason for the increased activity of its downstream markers BAX and p21. Because as a rule fibroids express much higher levels of p14Arf, a major negative regulator of MDM2, than matching myometrium it was then analyzed if fibroids are more sensitive against nutlin-3 treatment than matching myometrium. We were able to show that in most fibroids analyzed a higher sensibility than that of matching myometrium was noted with a corresponding increase of the p53 immunopositivity of the fibroid samples compared to those from myometrium.

Conclusions

The results show that uterine fibroids represent a cell population of advanced cellular age compared to matching myometrium. Moreover, the data point to members of the p53-network as to potential novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of uterine fibroids.
Parent-reported health care expenditures associated with autism spectrum disorders in Heilongjiang province, China
Authors: Wang Jia , Zhou Xue , Xia Wei , Sun Cai-Hong , Wu Li-Jie , Wang Jian-Li , Tomoda Akemi
Published: January 2012

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the health expenses incurred by families with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and those expenses' relation to total household income and expenditures.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, health care expenditure data were collected through face-to-face interviews. Expenses included annual costs for clinic visits, medication, behavioral therapy, transportation, and accommodations. Health care costs as a percentage of total household income and expenditures were also determined. The participants included 290 families with ASD children who were treated at the Children Development and Behavior Research Center, Harbin Medical University, China.

Results

Families with ASD children from urban and rural areas had higher per-capita household expenditures by 60.8% and 74.7%, respectively, compared with provincial statistics for 2007. Behavioral therapy accounted for the largest proportion of health expenses (54.3%) for ASD children. In 19.9% of urban and 38.2% of rural families, health care costs exceeded the total annual household income. Most families (89.3% of urban families; 88.1% of rural families) in that province reported higher health care expenditures than the provincial household average.

Conclusion

For families with ASD children, the economic burden of health care is substantially higher than the provincial average.
Uric acid is an independent risk factor for carotid atherosclerosis in a Japanese elderly population without metabolic syndrome
Authors: Takayama Shuzo , Kawamoto Ryuichi , Kusunoki Tomo , Abe Masanori , Onji Morikazu
Published: January 2012

Background

Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) is an useful surrogate marker of cardiovascular disease. Associations between uric acid (UA), metabolic syndrome (MetS) and carotid IMT have been reported, but findings regarding the relationship have been inconsistent.

Methods

A total of 1,579 Japanese elderly subjects aged ≥65 years {663 men aged, 78 ± 8 (mean ± standard deviation) years and 916 women aged 79 ± 8 years} were divided into 4 groups according to UA quartiles. We first investigated the association between UA concentrations and confounding factors including MetS; then, we assessed whether there is an independent association of UA with carotid IMT and atherosclerosis in participants subdivided according to gender and MetS status.

Results

Carotid IMT was significantly increased according to the quartiles of UA in both genders without MetS and women with MetS. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that odds ratio (OR) {95% confidence interval (CI)} in men for carotid atherosclerosis was significantly increased in the third (OR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.02-3.02), and fourth quartiles (OR, 2.01; 95% CI, 1.12-3.60) of UA compared with that in the first quartile of UA, and the OR in women was significantly increased in the fourth quartile (OR, 2.10; 95% CI, 1.30-3.39). Similarly, the ORs were significantly associated with increasing quartiles of UA in both genders without MetS, but not necessarily increased in those with MetS.

Conclusions

UA was found to be an independent risk factor for incidence of carotid atherosclerosis in both genders without MetS.