bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive Analysis of the MYB-NFIB Gene Fusion in Salivary Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma: Incidence, Variability, and Clinicopathologic Significance
Authors: Mitani Yoshitsugu , Li Jie , Rao Pulivarthi H. , Zhao Yi-Jue , Bell Diana , Lippman Scott M. , Weber Randal S. , Caulin Carlos , El-Naggar Adel K.
Published: August 2010

Purpose: The objectives of this study were to determine the incidence of the MYB-NFIB fusion in salivary adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC), to establish the clinicopathologic significance of the fusion, and to analyze the expression of MYB in ACCs in the context of the MYB-NFIB fusion.

Experimental Design: We did an extensive analysis involving 123 cancers of the salivary gland, including primary and metastatic ACCs, and non-ACC salivary carcinomas. MYB-NFIB fusions were identified by reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-PCR) and sequencing of the RT-PCR products, and confirmed by fluorescence in situ hybridization. MYB RNA expression was determined by quantitative RT-PCR and protein expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry.

Results: The MYB-NFIB fusion was detected in 28% primary and 35% metastatic ACCs, but not in any of the non-ACC salivary carcinomas analyzed. Different exons in both the MYB and NFIB genes were involved in the fusions, resulting in expression of multiple chimeric variants. Notably, MYB was overexpressed in the vast majority of the ACCs, although MYB expression was significantly higher in tumors carrying the MYB-NFIB fusion. The presence of the MYB-NFIB fusion was significantly associated (P = 0.03) with patients older than 50 years of age. No correlation with other clinicopathologic markers, factors, and survival was found.

Conclusions: We conclude that the MYB-NFIB fusion characterizes a subset of ACCs and contributes to MYB overexpression. Additional mechanisms may be involved in MYB overexpression in ACCs lacking the MYB-NFIB fusion. These findings suggest that MYB may be a specific novel target for tumor intervention in patients with ACC. Clin Cancer Res; 16(19); 4722–31. ©2010 AACR.
Oxidative Stress and Aminopeptidases in Parkinson’s Disease Patients with and without Treatment
Authors: Duran Raquel , Barrero Francisco J. , Morales Blas , Luna Juan D. , Ramirez Manuel , Vives Francisco
Published: August 2010

Background/Objective: Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress and protein metabolism impairment are the main molecular events underlying the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, only few studies have addressed the changes produced by these phenomena in the blood of PD patients. Our purpose was to compare oxidative stress between newly diagnosed PD patients (ntPD) and PD patients under treatment (tPD). We also analyzed changes in plasma activity of several aminopeptidases (AP) involved in the metabolism of various active peptides.Methods: Plasma lipid peroxide (LPO) and lactate (LAC) concentrations were measured by colorimetric methods, and plasma AP activities were determined by fluorometric assay. Results: LPO and LAC concentrations were significantly elevated in ntPD and tPD patients versus controls, but there were no differences between the PD groups. Alanine-, cystine- and aspartate-AP activities were significantly lower in tPD versus ntPD patients. Nondenaturing electrophoresis and Western blot results confirmed these findings. Conclusions: The plasma LPO and LAC levels were high in both PD groups, indicating that they are elevated at an early stage of PD and are not affected by anti-PD treatment. The higher AP activities in ntPD versus tPD patients suggest that anti-PD treatment may improve protein metabolism while not altering oxidative stress. A therapy directed to reduce oxidative stress and normalize AP activity may be useful in the treatment of PD.
Gene Expression Profile Determination in Rat Retinal Tissue after Ocular Hypertension through Oligo Microarray
Authors: Cui Xin , Xu Ning , Liao Wenqiang , Xu Jiantao , Ge Chengguo , Ye Jian , Liu Xiangyuan , He Xiangge
Published: August 2010

Increased intraocular pressure is the main cause of glaucoma development. However, the systemic information of genes related to ocular hypertension has not yet been clarified. In the present study, oligomicroarray determined the profile of gene expression in the retina after ocular hypertension. A rat ocular hypertension model was constructed through photocoagulation by diode lasers. On postoperative days 7, 35, 60, 90, 180 and 360, the intraocular pressure and the gene expression profile were determined using an ophthalmotonometer and an Oligochip containing 35,000 oligonucleotides, respectively. Oligochip reliability was verified by real-time PCR, and the Oligochip data were analyzed through functional distribution analysis. In our study, we found that the intraocular pressure was significantly increased in a time-dependent manner but returned to the normal level on postoperative day 360. We also found that 1,692 genes were differentially expressed, including 719 upregulated and 973 downregulated genes. The χ2 value of gene clusters related to transport function is significantly higher than that of other gene clusters as determined through function distribution analysis, suggesting that this group of genes plays an important role in the repair process of the optical nerve. In conclusion, the gene expression pattern at different time points of ocular hypertension was determined, which may contribute to clarify the molecular mechanism of glaucoma and to establish better therapeutic strategies to treat glaucoma.
Association of Polymorphisms of Heat Shock Protein 70 with Susceptibility to Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in the Taiwanese Population
Authors: Chang Ning-Chia , Ho Chi-Kung , Lin Hsing-Yi , Yu Ming-Lung , Chien Chen-Yu , Ho Kuen-Yao
Published: August 2010

Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is the major cause of adult sensorineural hearing loss. It is a complex disease caused by the interaction of environmental and genetic factors. Previous studies found that heat shock proteins (HSPs) were associated with the development of NIHL. Specifically, polymorphisms in the heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) gene family are associated with a susceptibility to NIHL. In this study, three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the HSP70 family (SNP1: rs2075800; SNP2: rs1043618; SNP3: rs2763979) were genotyped in 349 noise-exposed Taiwanese workers. The subjects were categorized into noise-susceptible (NS; n = 27) and general susceptibility (GS; n = 322) groups by the change of a 4K-weighted audiometric average in an interval of 5 years. The G/C genotype of SNP2 was found to be associated with NIHL susceptibility (adjusted OR = 2.634; 95% CI = 1.096–6.328). No significant association was found for SNP1 and SNP3 with NIHL susceptibility. Analysis of haplotypes composed of these three SNPs revealed a significant association between NIHL susceptibility and haplotype CCC (OR = 2.197; 95% CI = 1.110–4.370). In conclusion, the genetic polymorphisms in the HSP70 genes seem to be associated with the individual’s susceptibility to NIHL in the Taiwanese population. These findings could be used as a reference in the understanding and prevention of NIHL.
Albuminuria Is the Stronger Risk Factor for Peripheral Arterial Disease than eGFR Decline in a Type 2 Diabetic Taiwanese Population
Authors: Lee Mei Yueh , Lin Kun-Der , Chang Yu-Hung , Hsiao Pi-Jung , Shin Shyi-Jang
Published: August 2010

Background: Several studies have shown the identified risk factors for peripheral arterial disease in individuals with diabetes, but relatively little information has been provided regarding the risk factors for peripheral arterial disease especially in individuals with renal insufficiency and albuminuria. Aims: In our study, we attempted to determine whether peripheral arterial disease is related to the reduction of estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) or albuminuria in type 2 diabetic patients if both were measured. Methods: We included 478 type 2 diabetic patients that were more than 50 years old in this study and determined their urine albumin to creatinine ratio and eGFR. The ankle-brachial index was measured. Results: We found a prevalence of peripheral arterial disease of 12 and 11.7% in the normoalbuminuria and >90 ml/min/1.73 m2 eGFR group. Simple logistic regression analysis showed that both macroalbuminuria and eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 were significantly associated with peripheral arterial disease individually, but most interestingly in the multiple logistic regression analysis, macroalbuminuria and age are independent factors for peripheral arterial disease with a p value of 0.012 (β = 1.014) and <0.001 (β = 0.107), respectively. Conclusion: In summary, our study indicates that macroalbuminuria is a stronger indicator for peripheral arterial disease than eGFR <60 ml/min/1.73 m2 in a type 2 diabetic population older than 50 years of age.
Genetic Association between PLTP Gene Polymorphisms and Alzheimer’s Disease in a Japanese Population
Authors: Kuerban Bolati , Shibata Nobuto , Komatsu Miwa , Ohnuma Tohru , Arai Heii
Published: August 2010

Background/Aims: A recent paper reported that the phospholipid transfer protein (PLTP) reduces phosphorylation of tau in human neuronal cells. In addition, patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) have significantly higher levels of PLTP in brain tissue and significantly lower PLTP-mediated phospholipid transfer activity in cerebrospinal fluid. PLTP also affects apolipoprotein E (APOE) secretion from glial cells. This study aimed to investigate whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of the PLTP gene are associated with AD. Methods: Five SNPs, genotyped using TaqMan® technology, were analyzed using a case-control study design. Furthermore, we also checked for a synergetic association between the PLTP gene, APOE and AD. Our case-control dataset consisted of 180 AD patients and 130 age-matched controls. Results: None of the SNPs showed a statistically significant association. We could not confirm any synergetic association between the SNPs and APOE in our AD patients. Conclusion: Our results indicate that there is no genetic association between PLTP and AD. Due to the relatively small sample size and the incomplete coverage of the region surrounding the PLTP gene of this study, larger genetic studies covering the entire PLTP gene region are needed.
Symptomatic Hemorrhagic Transformation and Its Predictors in Acute Ischemic Stroke with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lee Ju-Hun , Park Kwang-Yeol , Shin Joon-Hyun , Cha Jae-Kwan , Kim Hahn-Young , Kwon Jee-Hyun , Oh Hyung Geun , Lee Kyung Bok , Kim Dong-Eog , Ha Sang-Won , Cho Kyung-Hee , Sohn Sung-Il , Oh Mi-Sun , Yu Kyung-Ho , Lee Byung-Chul , Kwon Sun U.
Published: August 2010

Background and Purpose: Patients with acute cardioembolic stroke frequently show hemorrhagic transformation (HTr). We attempted to identify predictors of symptomatic HTr in acute ischemic stroke with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods: Of the consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients with AF at 12 hospitals in Korea, patients with posterior circulation stroke or thrombolytic therapy were excluded. Immediate anticoagulation was recommended to all patients, except those with: (1) large infarcts, 50% or more of the middle cerebral artery territory, (2) significant HTr on initial imaging, or (3) other safety concerns. Symptomatic HTr was defined as cerebral hemorrhage temporally related to neurological deterioration. Results: Of the 389 included patients (mean age 71 years), 260 (67%) were treated with anticoagulation within 1 week from the onset. Symptomatic HTr occurred in 4.6%. Large infarct (OR 6.38, 95% CI 1.16–35.14), previous hemorrhagic stroke (OR 10.67, 1.77–64.25), and low platelet count (OR per 104 increase 0.87, 0.79–0.97) were independent predictors of symptomatic HTr. hsCRP values tended to be higher in patients with symptomatic HTr (p = 0.055). Conclusions: Caution is needed in anticoagulation treatment of acute cardioembolic stroke patients with a large infarct, previous hemorrhagic stroke, low platelet count, or a high hsCRP level.
Interactions of Corticotropin-Releasing Factor, Urocortin and Citalopram in a Primate Model of Stress-Induced Amenorrhea
Authors: Weissheimer Karin V. , Herod Skyla M. , Cameron Judy L. , Bethea Cynthia L.
Published: August 2010

Background/Aims: We established a cynomolgus macaque model of stress-induced amenorrhea in which the application of combined metabolic and psychosocial stress suppressed ovulation in stress-sensitive (SS) individuals, but not in highly stress-resilient (HSR) individuals. We previously reported that SS monkeys have deficits in global serotonin release and serotonin-related gene expression in the raphe nucleus, and that administration of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor S-citalopram increased estrogen and progesterone production in SS monkeys. In this study, we questioned whether there was a difference in corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) or urocortin (UCN) stress-related peptide systems in the midbrain raphe region when HSR and SS monkeys treated with placebo or S-citalopram are compared. Methods: Monkeys characterized as HSR or SS were administered placebo or S-citalopram for 15 weeks. CRF fibers in the dorsal raphe were detected with an antibody against human CRF. UCN1 fibers were immunostained in an area rostral to the dorsal raphe. The fibers were quantified by stereology and analyzed by two-way ANOVA. UCN1 cell bodies were counted in the supraoculomotor area near the Edinger-Westphal nucleus. Results: S-citalopram significantly decreased the CRF fiber density in SS animals, but not in HSR animals. SS monkeys had a significantly lower UCN1 fiber density compared to HSR monkeys, but S-citalopram treatment did not alter the UCN1 fiber density. SS animals treated with S-citalopram tended to have a higher number of UCN1-positive cell bodies than the other groups. Conclusion: S-citalopram decreased CRF fiber density and appears to increase the production of UCN1 in SS individuals, indicating the likelihood that serotonin is involved in regulating CRF and UCN1 in individuals who are sensitive to the effects of serotonin.
Independent Information of Nonspecific Biomarkers in Exhaled Breath Condensate
Authors: Dressel Holger , Müller Florian , Fischer Rainald , Römmelt Horst , Hohlfeld Jens M. , Behr Jürgen , Huber Rudolf M. , Nowak Dennis , Jörres Rudolf A.
Published: August 2010

Background: Exhaled breath condensate (EBC) has been used for diagnosing and monitoring respiratory disorders. For clinical purposes the assessment of easy-to-obtain nonspecific markers seems particularly interesting. Objectives: As these measures are related to each other, our objective was to extract the independent information in global EBC markers across a range of respiratory disorders. Methods: EBC was collected from patients with asthma (n = 18), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (n = 17), and cystic fibrosis (n = 46), as well as from lung transplant (LTX) recipients (n = 14) and healthy controls (n = 26). Samples were assessed for electrical conductivity, ammonia, pH, and nitrite/nitrate. pH was measured after both deaeration with argon and CO2 standardization. Additionally, the fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FENO) was assessed. Factor analysis was applied to identify major factors concerning these measures. Results: Three independent factors were detected; the first comprised conductivity, ammonia, and pH, especially when standardized using CO2, the second nitrite/nitrate, and the third FENO. Conductivity and ammonia were highly correlated (r = 0.968; p < 0.001). FENO provided independent information mainly in asthma. The nonspecific EBC markers showed considerable overlap between patient groups and healthy subjects. However, conductivity, ammonia, pH standardized for CO2 and nitrite/nitrate were increased in LTX recipients compared to healthy controls (p < 0.05 each). Conclusions: A panel of nonspecific easy-to-obtain exhaled breath markers could be reduced to 3 independent factors. The information content of conductivity, ammonia, and pH after CO2 equilibration appeared to be similar, while FENO was independent. The increased levels of these biomarkers in LTX might indicate a potential for their use in these patients.
Endothelium-Dependent Coronary Vasodilatation Requires NADPH Oxidase-Derived Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Feng Jun , Damrauer Scott M. , Lee Monica , Sellke Frank W. , Ferran Christiane , Abid Md. Ruhul
Published: August 2010

Objective—

To determine the functional significance of physiological reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in endothelium-dependent nitric oxide (NO)-mediated coronary vasodilatation.

Methods and Results—

Endothelium-derived NO is important in regulating coronary vascular tone. Excess ROS have been shown to reduce NO bioavailability, resulting in endothelial dysfunction and coronary diseases. NADPH oxidase is a major source of ROS in endothelial cells (ECs). By using lucigenin-based superoxide production and dichlorfluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) fluorescence-activated cell sorter assays, we found that mouse heart ECs from NADPH oxidase-knockdown (p47
phox−/−
) animals have reduced NADPH oxidase activity (>40%) and ROS levels (>30%) compared with wild-type mouse heart ECs. Surprisingly, a reduction in ROS did not improve coronary vasomotion; rather, endothelium-dependent vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated coronary vasodilatation was reduced by greater than 50% in p47
phox−/−
animals. Western blots and
l
-citrulline assays showed a significant reduction in Akt/protein kinase B (PKB) and endothelial NO synthase phosphorylation and NO synthesis, respectively, in p47
phox−/−
coronary vessels and mouse heart ECs. Adenoviral expression of constitutively active endothelial NO synthase restored vascular endothelial growth factor-mediated coronary vasodilatation in p47
phox−/−
animals.

Conclusion—

Endothelium-dependent vascular endothelial growth factor regulation of coronary vascular tone may require NADPH oxidase-derived ROS to activate phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase-Akt-endothelial NO synthase axis.
Acidic Extracellular Environments Strongly Impair ABCA1-Mediated Cholesterol Efflux From Human Macrophage Foam Cells
Authors: Lee-Rueckert Miriam , Lappalainen Jani , Leinonen Hannele , Pihlajamaa Tero , Jauhiainen Matti , Kovanen Petri T.
Published: August 2010

Objective—

In the deep microenvironments of advanced human atherosclerotic lesions, the intimal fluid becomes acidic. We examined the effect of an acidic extracellular pH on cholesterol removal (efflux) from primary human macrophages.

Methods and Results—

When cholesterol efflux from acetyl-low-density lipoprotein-loaded macrophages to various cholesterol acceptors was evaluated at pH 7.5, 6.5, or 5.5, the lower the pH the more was cholesterol efflux reduced. The reduction of efflux to lipid-free apolipoprotein A-I was stronger than to high-density lipoprotein
2
or to plasma. Cholesterol efflux to every acceptor was severely compromised also at neutral pH when the macrophages had been loaded with cholesterol at acidic pH, or when both loading and efflux were carried out at acidic pH. Compatible with these observations, the typical upregulation of ABCA1 and ABCG1 mRNA levels in macrophages loaded with cholesterol at neutral pH was rapidly attenuated in acidic medium. The secondary structure of apolipoprotein A-I did not changed over the pH range studied, supporting the notion that the inhibitory effect of acidic pH on cholesterol efflux rather impaired the ability of the foam cells to facilitate ABCA1-mediated cholesterol release. Secretion of apolipoprotein E from the foam cells was fully inhibited when the pH was 5.5, which further reduced cholesterol efflux.

Conclusion—

An acidic pH reduces cholesterol efflux via different pathways and particularly impairs the function of the ABCA1 transporter. The pH-sensitive function of human macrophage foam cells in releasing cholesterol may accelerate lipid accumulation in deep areas of advanced atherosclerotic plaques where the intimal fluid is acidic.
Numerical Simulations of Island-Scale Airflow over Maui and the Maui Vortex under Summer Trade Wind Conditions
Authors: Carlis DaNa L. , Chen Yi-Leng , Morris Vernon R.
Published: August 2010

The fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR Mesoscale Model (MM5) coupled with the Noah land surface model (LSM) is employed to simulate island-scale airflow and circulations over Maui County, Hawaii, under summer trade wind conditions, during July–August 2005. The model forecasts are validated by surface observations with good agreement.

In this study, it is shown that a previously known closed circulation over the Central Valley of Maui, or the Maui vortex, represents the northern cyclonic vortex of the dual-counter-rotating vortices in the lee of Haleakala, which extend up to the base of the trade wind inversion with a westerly reversed flow (>2 m s−1). At low levels, the northern cyclonic vortex is more pronounced than the southern anticyclonic vortex. The asymmetric structure of the dual vortices is related to the shape of Haleakala and the flow deflection by the West Maui Mountains. The Maui vortex has a relatively narrow east–west extent in the lowest levels, especially at night, due to the deflected strong northerly/northeasterly winds from the windward foothills of the West Maui Mountains. Unlike the lee vortices off the leeside coast of the island of Hawaii, the Maui vortex and the westerly return flow in low levels are mainly over land and are strongly modulated by the diurnal heating cycle. In addition, the location and horizontal and vertical extent are affected by the trade wind speed and latent heat release.

Over the West Maui Mountains, with their height below the trade wind inversion, dual-counter-rotating vortices are present below the 1-km level in the wake, with strong downslope flow on the leeside slopes followed by a hydraulic jump. In the afternoon, downslope winds are weak, with combined westerly return/sea-breeze flow along the leeside coast. Orographic blocking is also evident over eastern Molokai with strong downslope winds, especially at night.
Application of multi-criteria analysis for parameters selection problem in rotor spinning machine
Authors: Moghassem A.R. , Bahramzadeh H.
Published: August 2010

Optimum spinning machine parameter selection among feasible alternatives with different significance is a multi-criteria decision-making problem. Statistical analysis is a conventional method that is used in such a problem. However, the preferences of the producer about the yarn properties needed to obtain an end product with defined characteristics have not been taken into consideration in these approaches. Therefore, in this study, assistance in reaching acceptable solutions in order to select the appropriate doffing tube components and its adjustment for 30 Ne rotor yarn that is intended to be used for weft-knitted fabric will be provided by the technique for order preference by similarity ideal solution (TOPSIS). Yarn samples were spun considering three variables, namely the distances between the nozzle and rotor, the extractive nozzle and the draw-off tube. Possible alternatives were ranked on the basis of the yarn quality parameters by the TOPSIS method and the best alternative for increasing weft-knitting machine efficiency was presented. According to the final ranking, the spinning condition in which the sample was spun by using a spiral nozzle, a doffing tube without a torque stop, and a closer setting had the highest closeness coefficient (Rjvalue) to the ideal solution (0.967). Consequently, the stability of the proposed final ranking was verified after sensitivity analysis.
CF4 plasma and silver functionalized cotton
Authors: Gorjanc Marija , Bukošek Vili , Gorenšek Marija , Mozetič Miran
Published: August 2010

In an attempt to use minimal concentrations, initially, of silver nanoparticles for loading onto textiles and to achieve maximum concentrations on the material, CF4 low-pressure plasma was used on bleached and mercerized cotton fabric. The concentrations of silver on the fabrics were determined by the ICP-MS method (inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry), the morphology of fiber surfaces was observed with a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and an x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) study was used for the evaluation of surface chemical changes. The antibacterial effect of silver loaded fabrics was tested against Enterococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The best results were found for plasma-treated cotton fabric functionalized with 30 nm silver particles. The results show effective plasma etching of the fabric surface, which caused excellent adhesion of silver particles. Color measurements of dyed samples showed that CF 4 plasma does not affect the color of dyed cotton. The mechanical properties of cotton remain unaltered after plasma treatment.
Robust stabilization of discrete-time switched non-linear systems with time delay under asynchronous switching
Authors: Zhengrong Xiang  , Ronghao Wang
Published: August 2010

This paper investigates the problem of robust stabilization of uncertain discrete-time switched non-linear systems with time delay under asynchronous switching. By using the average dwell time approach and piecewise Lyapunov functional technique, a state feedback controller is developed for the discrete-time switched system under asynchronous switching, and sufficient conditions for the existence of the controller are derived. Then, the proposed approach is extended to design robust stabilizing controller for the switched non-linear system with time delay under asynchronous switching. Finally, a numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Pilot Testing of a Medication Self-Management Transition Intervention for Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Barnason Susan , Zimmerman Lani , Hertzog Melody , Schulz Paula
Published: August 2010

This pilot study examined the impact of a hospital transition intervention for older adults (≥ 65 years of age) with heart failure (HF) to promote medication use self-management. Forty subjects, hospitalized with either primary or secondary HF, had a mean age of 76.9 ± 6.5 years; 65% were males. The majority of subjects (55%) had NYHA Class III HF. A prospective, repeated measures experimental design was used. Baseline and follow-up data (1- and 3-months after hospitalization) were obtained using the Medication Regimen Complexity Index, Brief Medication Questionnaire, Drug Regiment Unassisted Grading Scale, and Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire. Using repeated measures analysis of covariance (ANCOVA), with baseline measures as covariates, the transition intervention group had higher levels of medication adherence ( F(1,35) = 13.4, p < .001), self-efficacy for HF self-care ( F(1,35) = 17.9, p < .001) and had significantly fewer HF related symptoms that impaired health related quality of life ( F(1,35) = 9.1, p = .006).
Expression of CD200/CD200R regulatory molecules on granulocytes and monocytes is modulated by cardiac surgical operation
Authors: Krejsek Jan , Kolackova Martina , Mandak Jiri , Kunes Pavel , Jankovicova Karolina , Vlaskova Dana , Svitek Vladimir , Andrys Ctirad
Published: August 2010

Aims: Cardiac surgical operation is inseparably linked to the induction of an inflammatory response. Both humoral and cellular regulatory mechanisms are operating to maintain body homeostasis. We followed the changes in the expression of CD200/CD200R regulatory molecules on monocytes and granulocyte of cardiac surgical patients operated on using either standard (OP) or modified “mini-invasive” cardiopulmonary bypass (MOP).

Methods: Expression of CD200/CD200R regulatory molecules was determined by flow cytometry.

Results: The expression of CD200R on granulocytes was increased after surgery in both groups of patients, but the increase was statistically significant only in OP patients (p<0.01). At this time point, there was a significant difference in CD200R expression on granulocytes when comparing OP to MOP patients, being higher in the former group (p<0.01). The expression of CD200R on monocytes was diminished after surgery and during an early postoperative period in both groups of patients. The expression of CD200 on monocytes was significantly diminished after surgery in both groups (p<0.01). Nonetheless, we observed an increase in CD200 expression in OP patients at the 3rd postoperative day. There was a statistically significantly increased CD200 expression on monocytes of OP patients (p<0.001) at the 3rd postoperative day when we compared OP and MOP groups. The expression of CD200 on granulocytes was significantly higher after surgery and at the 3rd postoperative day in OP when compared to MOP patients.

Conclusions: CD200R expression on granulocytes was significantly increased, while CD200 and CD200R expression on monocytes was decreased after cardiac surgery.
Evidence of disagreement between patient-perceived change and conventional longitudinal evaluation of change in health-related quality of life among older adults
Authors: McPhail Steven , Comans Tracy , Haines Terry
Published: August 2010

Objective: To identify agreement levels between conventional longitudinal evaluation of change (post—pre) and patient-perceived change (post—then test) in health-related quality of life.

Design: A prospective cohort investigation with two assessment points (baseline and six-month follow-up) was implemented.

Setting: Community rehabilitation setting.

Subjects: Frail older adults accessing community-based rehabilitation services.

Intervention: Nil as part of this investigation.

Main measures: Conventional longitudinal change in health-related quality of life was considered the difference between standard EQ-5D assessments completed at baseline and follow-up. To evaluate patient-perceived change a ‘then test’ was also completed at the follow-up assessment. This required participants to report (from their current perspective) how they believe their health-related quality of life was at baseline (using the EQ-5D). Patient-perceived change was considered the difference between ‘then test’ and standard follow-up EQ-5D assessments.

Results: The mean (SD) age of participants was 78.8 (7.3). Of the 70 participants 62 (89%) of data sets were complete and included in analysis. Agreement between conventional (post—pre) and patient-perceived (post—then test) change was low to moderate (EQ-5D utility intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.41, EQ-5D visual analogue scale (VAS) ICC = 0.21). Neither approach inferred greater change than the other (utility P =0.925, VAS P =0.506). Mean (95% confidence interval (CI)) conventional change in EQ-5D utility and VAS were 0.140 (0.045,0.236) and 8.8 (3.3,14.3) respectively, while patient-perceived change was 0.147 (0.055,0.238) and 6.4 (1.7,11.1) respectively.

Conclusions: Substantial disagreement exists between conventional longitudinal evaluation of change in health-related quality of life and patient-perceived change in health-related quality of life (as measured using a then test) within individuals.
Effects of tai chi exercise on posturography, gait, physical function and quality of life in postmenopausal women with osteopaenia: a randomized clinical study
Authors: Chyu Ming-Chien , James C. Roger , Sawyer Steven F , Brismée Jean-Michel , Xu Ke T , Poklikuha Glen , Dunn Dale M , Shen Chwan-Li
Published: August 2010

Objective: To evaluate the effects of tai chi exercise on risk factors for falls in postmenopausal women with osteopaenia through measurements of balance, gait, physical function and quality of life.

Design: A randomized, controlled, single-blinded, 24-week trial with stratification by age and bone mass.

Setting: General community.

Participants: Sixty-one independently living elderly females aged 65 years and older with low bone mass.

Interventions: Subjects were recruited and randomly assigned to 24 weeks of tai chi (60 minutes/session, three sessions/week, n = 30) or a control group (n = 31).

Outcome measures: Computerized dynamic posturography, gait, ‘timed up and go’, five-chair sit-to-stand and quality of life assessed at baseline, 12 and 24 weeks.

Results: After 24 weeks, subjects in the tai chi group demonstrated an increase in stride width (P = 0.05) and improvement in general health (P = 0.008), vitality (P = 0.02) and bodily pain (P = 0.03) compared with those in the control group. There was no significant difference in balance parameters, ‘timed up and go’, five-chair sit-to-stand and other domains of quality of life.

Conclusion: Tai chi exercise may reduce risk factors for falls by increasing the stride width, and may improve quality of life in terms of general health, vitality and bodily pain in postmenopausal women with osteopaenia.
Situated Learning and Identity Development in a Korean Older Adults’ Computer Classroom
Authors: Kim Young Sek , Merriam Sharan B.
Published: August 2010

Situated learning theory understands learning to be a sociocultural activity, and individuals experience identity development as they participate in communities of practice. The purpose of this study was to understand how Korean older adults’ computer learning in a classroom is a situated activity and how this learning influences older adults’ identities. Eleven sessions of an intermediate course for older adults were observed, and 10 older computer learners were interviewed. This study revealed that social interactions, learning tools, the physical setting, and Korean culture were embedded in the course and shaped the learning processes. This study also found that the participants’ learning in the community of practice in the classroom as well as the larger community of general computer users influenced their identity.
Notes from the Sports Club: Confessional Tales of Two Researchers
Authors: Fortune Darla , Mair Heather
Published: August 2010

Reflexive forms of field research acknowledge the impact of the researcher in the production and interpretation of ethnographic data. In this article we highlight and discuss issues that stemmed from their critical reflection while conducting field research in a small sports club in rural Canada. We give consideration to the nature of their role relationships, participation, performances, and negotiation of balance and distance. The resultant self-revealing text provides the basis for discussion on issues relating to power, representation, subjectivity, and interpretation.
Neuroretinitis as an initial presentation of lupus-like illness with antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: Farooqui SZ , Thong BYH , Teoh SCB
Published: August 2010

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by arterial and/or venous thrombosis, recurrent fetal losses or other pregnancy complications, and the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Ocular manifestations occur in 8—88% of patients with APS and are typically due to vaso-occlusive disease involving retinal and choroidal vessels. We report an unusual case of neuroretinitis as a first presentation of lupus-like illness with APS. Lupus (2010) 19, 1662—1664.
Disability Specialist Staff in US One-Stop Career Centers and British Jobcentre Plus Offices: Roles, Responsibilities, and Evidence of Their Effectiveness
Authors: Boeltzig Heike , Pilling Doria , Timmons Jaimie Ciulla , Johnson Robyn
Published: August 2010

The One-Stop Career Center system in the United States and the Jobcentre Plus system in Great Britain provide universal access to public employment services targeted at all job seekers, including people with disabilities, and employer services. Studies have identified challenges with these universal models in that some job seekers with disabilities may have additional or more intense support needs. Disability specialist positions provide one way of addressing these needs. This article examines their roles and responsibilities and their effectiveness in improving employment service delivery through these systems. The article highlights commonalities and differences associated with the roles between the two countries and discusses implications for improving effectiveness. Findings are based on a scoping review of existing empirical research that was conducted in 2008. The article concludes with directions for future research.
Compton Unified School District v. Starvenia Addison: Child Find Activities and Response to Intervention
Authors: Yell Mitchell L. , Katsiyannis Antonis , Collins James C.
Published: August 2010

On March 22, 2010, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit issued a decision on a case that was on appeal from the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California in Los Angeles County. In the case, Compton Unified School District v. Starvenia Addison, the court of appeals addressed the issue of whether the school district had failed to identify the child for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The authors review the effects of the court’s decision and note its implications for school districts, particularly in regard to the use of response to intervention.
Dynamic Analysis and Optimization of a Three-phase Control Mode of a Mobile System with an Internal Mass
Authors: Fang H.B. , Xu J.
Published: August 2010

The dynamical system consisting of a rigid body and an internal mass is investigated in this paper. The rigid body can move along a rough horizontal plane with a piece-wise linear resistance law due to the special periodic internal motions. A three-phase control is constructed and the motion of the body relative to the environment is controlled by varying the relative acceleration of the internal mass. The relationships between the control parameters for the realization of a directed velocity-periodic motion of the rigid body are established through both theoretical and numerical methods. Optimal and practical parameters of the internal motion, at which the maximal mean velocity of the body is reached, are determined.
The Use of Ultrasound to Guide Interventions: From Bench to Bedside and Back Again
Authors: Bainbridge Daniel
Published: August 2010

The ultrasound machine was originally devised as a diagnostic tool to help evaluate heart structure and function. With recent advances in ultrasound, including live 3D ultrasound, its potential to guide interventions within the heart has increasingly been recognized. Cardiologists have adapted this technology and have now published guidelines on the use of ultrasound to guide interventional procedures. Anesthesiologists have also used ultrasound with much success in cardiac operating rooms (ORs) to guide cannula placement and, to a limited extent, interventions. The focus of this article is a review of the author’s work on ultrasound and virtual reality—guided cardiac interventions, both in the research laboratory and in the OR.
The Impact of New Media on Customer Relationships
Authors: Hennig-Thurau Thorsten , Malthouse Edward C. , Friege Christian , Gensler Sonja , Lobschat Lara , Rangaswamy Arvind , Skiera Bernd
Published: August 2010

Recent years have witnessed the rise of new media channels such as Facebook, YouTube, Google, and Twitter, which enable customers to take a more active role as market players and reach (and be reached by) almost everyone anywhere and anytime. These new media threaten long established business models and corporate strategies, but also provide ample opportunities for growth through new adaptive strategies. This paper introduces a new ‘‘pinball’’ framework of new media’s impact on relationships with customers and identifies key new media phenomena which companies should take into account when managing their relationships with customers in the new media universe. For each phenomenon, we identify challenges for researchers and managers which relate to (a) the understanding of consumer behavior, (b) the use of new media to successfully manage customer interactions, and (c) the effective measurement of customers’ activities and outcomes.
Managing Marketing Channel Multiplicity
Authors: Van Bruggen Gerrit H. , Antia Kersi D. , Jap Sandy D. , Reinartz Werner J. , Pallas Florian
Published: August 2010

Advances in information technology and changing customer needs for channel service outputs have dramatically affected the routes to markets in many industries. The authors propose that these changes have led to significant alterations in how customers interact with firms and consequently to a phenomenon that we dub ‘‘channel multiplicity.’’ Channel multiplicity is characterized by the customer’s reliance on multiple sources of information from independent (and often disparate) channel organizations and increasing demand for a seamless experience throughout the buying process. The authors identify the new market operating realities driving channel multiplicity and provide an overview of the consequences for channel design and channel management: a broadened view of products and services, channel leadership challenges, alterations in channel structure, and an expanded view of distribution intensity. The authors also identify issues triggered by these developments, which calls for further research in this field.
Undervalued or Overvalued Customers: Capturing Total Customer Engagement Value
Authors: Kumar V. , Aksoy Lerzan , Donkers Bas , Venkatesan Rajkumar , Wiesel Thorsten , Tillmanns Sebastian
Published: August 2010

Customers can interact with and create value for firms in a variety of ways. This article proposes that assessing the value of customers based solely upon their transactions with a firm may not be sufficient, and valuing this engagement correctly is crucial in avoiding undervaluation and overvaluation of customers. We propose four components of a customer’s engagement value (CEV) with a firm. The first component is customer lifetime value (the customer’s purchase behavior), the second is customer referral value (as it relates to incentivized referral of new customers), the third is customer influencer value (which includes the customer’s behavior to influence other customers, that is increasing acquisition, retention, and share of wallet through word of mouth of existing customers as well as prospects), and the fourth is customer knowledge value (the value added to the firm by feedback from the customer). CEV provides a comprehensive framework that can ultimately lead to more efficient marketing strategies that enable higher long-term contribution from the customer. Metrics to measure CEV, future research propositions regarding relationships between the four components of CEV are proposed and marketing strategies that can leverage these relationships suggested.
Analytics for Customer Engagement
Authors: Bijmolt Tammo H. A. , Leeflang Peter S. H. , Block Frank , Eisenbeiss Maik , Hardie Bruce G. S. , Lemmens Aurélie , Saffert Peter
Published: August 2010

In this article, we discuss the state of the art of models for customer engagement and the problems that are inherent to calibrating and implementing these models. The authors first provide an overview of the data available for customer analytics and discuss recent developments. Next, the authors discuss the models used for studying customer engagement, where they distinguish the following stages: customer acquisition, customer development, and customer retention. Finally, they discuss several organizational issues of analytics for customer engagement, which constitute barriers for introducing analytics for customer engagement.
Merit Determinants of ADA Title I Allegations Involving Discharge: Implications for Human Resources Management and Development
Authors: Hurley Jessica E.
Published: August 2010

Nonparametric tests of proportion were performed comparing discharge resolutions (the most prevalent discrimination issue filed with the EEOC between 1992 and 2008) with resolutions of a composite group of the next most prevalent discrimination issues (reasonable accommodation, terms and condition of employment, harassment and intimidation, and hiring). Results indicated that when an employee files an allegation of discharge discrimination, the resolution status of that allegation is more likely to be without Merit. Two exhaustive chi-square automatic interaction detector (CHAID) analyses were performed, with the first including 44 impairment types (e.g., back, traumatic brain injury, learning disability) and the second including those 44 impairment types combined into six categories (e.g., physical, neurological, sensory, and behavioral impairments). Results of the first exhaustive CHAID proved quite unwieldy but indicated that behavioral disabilities have relatively low merit resolution rates when it comes to discharge allegations (i.e., there is less actual discharge discrimination occurring for persons with behavioral disabilities). One additional finding was that filing discharge discrimination under one of the alternate prongs of the ADA’s definition of disability (i.e., “regarded as a person with a disability,” “record of a disability,” or “association with a person with a disability”) was the main driver of merit resolution activity. Results from a second exhaustive CHAID indicated that in the case of discharge merit resolution activity, employer industry drives the alternate prongs, employee race drives physical impairments, and employer industry drives behavioral impairments. Implications for human resources management and development research and practice are addressed.
Increasing Knowledge and Traditional Use of Medicinal Plants by Local Communities in Tamil Nadu: Promoting Self-Reliance at the Grassroots Level Through a Community-Based Entrepreneurship Initiative
Authors: Costanza Torri Maria
Published: August 2010

The presence of traditional medicine (TM) and medical practitioners in remote areas of the world is well documented by anthropological studies. However, social, cultural, and environmental factors influencing health and traditional health systems are usually analyzed separately, ignoring the interlinkages existing among them and the resulting synergies, as well as the impact these will have on multiple aspects of local communities. This article presents an innovative and integrated approach to the promotion of a traditional health knowledge system through a community-based entrepreneurship initiative, the Gram Mooligai Company Limited (GMCL), operating in Tamil Nadu (India). The field study took place in Tamil Nadu over a period of 4 months. The data were collected through individual and group interviews and were complemented by participant observations. The research highlights the existence of a strong relationship between commercial initiatives centered on ethnomedicine, enhancement of local livelihoods, gender empowerment, and conservation and enhancement of traditional knowledge through community capacity building. The article points out the importance of promoting and sustaining community initiatives such as GMCL with appropriate policies and affirms the necessity of reinforcing the links among culture, conservation, and socioeconomic development of local communities, particularly among the most vulnerable sectors of society.