bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnesium deficiency upregulates serine palmitoyl transferase (SPT 1 and SPT 2) in cardiovascular tissues: relationship to serum ionized Mg and cytochromec
Authors: Altura Burton M. , Shah Nilank C. , Li Zhiqiang , Jiang Xian-Cheng , Perez-Albela Jose Luis , Altura Bella T.
Published: June 2010

The present work tested the hypothesis that a short-term dietary deficiency of magnesium (Mg) (21 days) in rats would result in the upregulation of the two major subunits of serine palmitoyl-CoA-transferase, serine palmitoyl transferase (SPT 1) and SPT 2 (the rate-limiting enzymes responsible for the de novo biosynthesis of ceramides) in left ventricular, right ventricular, and atrial heart muscle and abdominal aortic smooth muscle, as well as induce a reduction in serum sphingomyelin concomitant with the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c (Cyto c) in these tissues. Our data indicate that short-term Mg deficiency (MgD) resulted in an upregulation of SPT 1 and SPT 2, concomitant with a very significant release of Cyto c in left ventricular, right ventricular, atrial, and abdominal aortic smooth muscle. Short-term MgD also produced a lowering of serum sphingomyelin and ionized Mg. The greater the reduction in serum ionized Mg, the greater the upregulation of SPT 1 and 2 and the more the increase in free Cyto c. The data suggest that MgD, most likely, causes a biosynthesis of ceramides via two pathways in cardiovascular tissues, viz., via the activation of serine palmitoyl-CoA-transferase and sphingomyelinase, which lead to apoptotic events via intrinsic (present study) and extrinsic pathways (previous studies). Low levels of drinking water Mg were cardio- and vasculoprotective.
The reciprocal relationship between adiponectin and LOX-1 in the regulation of endothelial dysfunction in ApoE knockout mice
Authors: Chen Xiuping , Zhang Hanrui , McAfee Steve , Zhang Cuihua
Published: June 2010

We hypothesized that the reciprocal association between adiponectin and lectin-like oxidized LDL (ox-LDL) receptor (LOX)-1 contributes to the regulation of aortic endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis. To test this hypothesis, endothelium-dependent (ACh) and endothelium-independent (sodium nitroprusside) vasorelaxation of isolated aortic rings from control mice, apolipoprotein E (ApoE) knockout (KO) mice, and ApoE KO mice treated with either adiponectin (15 μg·day−1·mouse−1 sc for 8 days) or neutralizing antibody to LOX-1 (anti-LOX-1, 16 μg/ml, 0.1 ml/mouse ip for 7 days) were examined. Although vasorelaxation to sodium nitroprusside was not different between control and ApoE KO mice, relaxation to ACh was impaired in ApoE KO mice. Adiponectin and anti-LOX-1 restored nitric oxide-mediated endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation in ApoE KO mice. Aortic ROS formation and ox-LDL uptake were increased in ApoE KO mice. Both adiponectin and anti-LOX-1 treatment reduced ROS production and aortic ox-LDL uptake. In mouse coronary artery endothelial cells, TNF-α incubation increased endothelial LOX-1 expression. Adiponectin reduced TNF-α-induced LOX-1 expression. Consistently, in ApoE KO mice, adiponectin treatment reversed elevated LOX-1 expression in aortas. Immunofluorescence staining showed that adiponectin was mainly colocalized with endothelial cells. Although adiponectin expression was lower in ApoE KO versus control mice, anti-LOX-1 increased aortic adiponectin expression, suggesting a reciprocal regulation between adiponectin and LOX-1. Moreover, both adiponectin and anti-LOX-1 reduced NF-κB expression in ApoE KO mice. Thus, adiponectin and LOX-1 may converge on NF-κB signaling to regulate their function. In conclusion, our results indicate that the reciprocal regulation between adiponectin and LOX-1 amplifies oxidative stress and ox-LDL uptake, leading to endothelial dysfunction in atherosclerosis.
Functional consequences of the collagen/elastin switch in vascular remodeling in hyperhomocysteinemic wild-type, eNOS−/−, and iNOS−/− mice
Authors: Steed Mesia M. , Tyagi Neetu , Sen Utpal , Schuschke Dale A. , Joshua Irving G. , Tyagi Suresh C.
Published: June 2010

A decrease in vascular elasticity and an increase in pulse wave velocity in hyperhomocysteinemic (HHcy) cystathionine-β-synthase heterozygote knockout (CBS−/+) mice has been observed. Nitric oxide (NO) is a potential regulator of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity in MMP-NO-tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP) inhibitory tertiary complex. However, the contribution of the nitric oxide synthase (NOS) isoforms eNOS and iNOS in the activation of latent MMP is unclear. We hypothesize that the differential production of NO contributes to oxidative stress and increased oxidative/nitrative activation of MMP, resulting in vascular remodeling in response to HHcy. The overall goal is to elucidate the contribution of the NOS isoforms, endothelial and inducible, in the collagen/elastin switch. Experiments were performed on six groups of animals [wild-type (WT), eNOS−/−, and iNOS−/− with and without homocysteine (Hcy) treatment (0.67 g/l) for 8–12 wk]. In vivo echograph was performed to assess aortic timed flow velocity for indirect compliance measurement. Histological determination of collagen and elastin with trichrome and van Gieson stains, respectively, was performed. In situ measurement of superoxide generation using dihydroethidium was used. Differential expression of eNOS, iNOS, nitrotyrosine, MMP-2 and -9, and elastin were measured by quantitative PCR and Western blot analyses. The 2% gelatin zymography was used to assess MMP activity. The increase in O2− and robust activity of MMP-9 in eNOS−/−, WT+Hcy, and eNOS−/−+Hcy was accompanied by the gross disorganization and thickening of the ECM along with extensive collagen deposition and elastin degradation (collagen/elastin switch) resulting in a decrease in aortic timed flow velocity. Results show that an increase in iNOS activity is a key contributor to HHcy-mediated collagen/elastin switch and resulting decline in aortic compliance.
Validation of high-resolution echocardiography and magnetic resonance imaging vs. high-fidelity catheterization in experimental pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Urboniene Dalia , Haber Idith , Fang Yong-Hu , Thenappan Thenappan , Archer Stephen L.
Published: June 2010

High-frequency echocardiography and high-field-strength magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are new noninvasive methods for quantifying pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy (RVH). We compared these noninvasive methods of assessing the pulmonary circulation to the gold standard, cardiac catheterization (micromanometer-tipped catheters), in rats with monocrotaline-induced PAH and normal controls. Closed-chest, Sprague-Dawley rats were anesthetized with inhaled isoflurane (25 monocrotaline, 6 age-matched controls). Noninvasive studies used 37.5-MHz ultrasound (Vevo 770; VisualSonics) or a 9.4-T MRI (Bruker BioSpin). Catheterization used a 1.4-F micromanometer-tipped Millar catheter and a thermodilution catheter to measure cardiac output (CO). We compared noninvasive measures of pulmonary artery (PA) pressure (PAP) using PA acceleration time (PAAT) and CO, using the geometric PA flow method and RV free wall (RVFW) thickness/mass with cardiac catheterization and/or autopsy. Blinded operators performed comparisons using each method within 2 days of another. In a subset of rats with monocrotaline PAH, weekly echocardiograms, catheterization, and autopsy data assessed disease progression. Heart rate was similar during all studies (>323 beats/min). PAAT shortened, and the PA flow envelope displayed systolic “notching,” reflective of downstream vascular remodeling/stiffening, within 3 wk of monocrotaline. MRI and echocardiography measures of PAAT were highly correlated ( r2= 0.87) and were inversely proportional to invasive mean PAP ( r2= 0.72). Mean PAP by echocardiography was estimated as 58.7 − (1.21 × PAAT). Invasive and noninvasive CO measurement correlated well ( r2≥ 0.75). Noninvasive measures of RVFW thickness/mass correlated well with postmortem measurements. We conclude that high-resolution echocardiography and MRI accurately determine CO, PAP, and RV thickness/mass, offering similar results as high-fidelity right heart catheterization and autopsy, and that PAAT accurately estimates PAP and permits serial monitoring of experimental PAH. These tools are useful for assessment of the rodent pulmonary circulation and RVH.
Effect of doxycycline on proliferation, MMP production, and adhesion in LAM-related cells
Authors: Chang William Y. C. , Clements Debbie , Johnson Simon R.
Published: June 2010

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in lung cyst formation in lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM). As doxycycline inhibits MMP activity in vivo, some patients take doxycycline, as one report has suggested a possible benefit in LAM. However, there have been no randomized controlled clinical trials of doxycycline for LAM, and any mechanism of action is unclear. Here, we examine previously proposed mechanisms of actions. Cell proliferation and adhesion were examined using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction and Cytomatrix cell adhesion kits. Apoptosis was examined by TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay. MMP-2 expression was examined by quantitative real-time PCR and zymography in doxycycline-treated ELT3 cells and tumor growth using angiomyolipoma-derived tumor xenografts in nude mice. In ELT3 cells, ≥25 μg/ml doxycycline decreased proliferation, increased apoptosis, and caused a change in cell morphology associated with redistribution of actin stress filaments. Reduction in proliferation was also seen in human angiomyolipoma-derived cells. Cell adhesion to ECM proteins was decreased by doxycycline at 50 μg/ml and prevented detachment of already adherent cells. There was no effect of doxycycline on MMP-2 expression or activity in vitro. In the xenograft model, doxycycline (30 mg·kg−1·day−1) had no effect on tumor growth, final tumor weight, or tumor lysate MMP levels. Doxycycline at doses ≥ 25 μg/ml inhibited cell proliferation and adhesion, possibly by a toxic effect. Doxycycline had no effect on MMP-2 expression or activity or tumor growth in the xenograft model. Any possible in vivo effect is unlikely to be mediated by MMP-2 or reduced cell proliferation.
Reference Values and Distribution of Conventional Echocardiographic Doppler Measures and Longitudinal Tissue Doppler Velocities in a Population Free From Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Dalen Havard , Thorstensen Anders , Vatten Lars J. , Aase Svein A. , Stoylen Asbjorn
Published: June 2010

Background—

This study aimed to investigate the distribution of conventional Doppler measurements, pulsed wave tissue Doppler imaging (pwTDI)- and color tissue Doppler imaging-derived velocities, by age and sex in a healthy population.

Methods and Results—

Longitudinal tissue Doppler velocities were determined in 1266 healthy individuals from standard apical 4- and 2-chamber views. By the pwTDI method, mean±SD systolic mitral annular velocities were 8.2±1.3 cm/s in women and 8.6±1.4 cm/s in men, and by color tissue Doppler, they were 6.6±1.1 cm/s in women and 6.9±1.3 cm/s in men. With pwTDI, diastolic early mitral annular velocities were 11.8±3.2 cm/s in women and 10.8±3.0 cm/s in men, with corresponding ratios between mitral early flow velocity and early diastolic tissue velocity of 6.7±0.8 in women and 6.4±0.8 in men. By pwTDI, tricuspid annular systolic and early diastolic velocities were 12.5±1.9 and 13.3±3.0, respectively, in women and 12.8±2.2 and 12.5±3.3, respectively, in men. There was a significant decrease in left and right ventricular function with increasing age.

Conclusions—

The longitudinal mitral and tricuspid annular velocities from this population study are widely applicable as reference values. Reference values for annular velocities should be specified by sex and age. The average of inferoseptal and anterolateral wall velocities may be the preferred index of left ventricular performance.
Kinetics of Left Ventricular Strains and Torsion During Incremental Exercise in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Doucende Grégory , Schuster Iris , Rupp Thomas , Startun Aliona , Dauzat Michel , Obert Philippe , Nottin Stéphane
Published: June 2010

Background—

The dynamics of systolic and diastolic strains and torsional mechanics of the left ventricle (LV) and their relation to diastolic filling never have been evaluated at various exercise intensities.

Methods and Results—

Speckle tracking echocardiography was performed in 20 healthy sedentary subjects at rest and during a progressive submaximal exercise test at 20%, 30%, and 40% of maximal aerobic power. LV twist increased progressively with exercise intensity (10.5±3.2 to 15.8±4.5°;
P
<0.001), whereas longitudinal strain remained unchanged after the first workload, underlining the key role of torsional reserve in systolic-diastolic coupling during exercise. The increase in diastolic untwisting (−88.7±34.2 to −182.9±53.5 deg · s
−1
;
P
<0.01) was correlated to enhanced systolic twist (
R
=0.61;
P
<0.001), and its magnitude of increase was significantly higher compared to diastolic longitudinal and circumferential strain rates (119±64% versus 65±44% and 57±24%, respectively), emphasizing its contribution to diastolic filling. The timing of peak untwisting and the chronology of diastolic mechanical events were unchanged during effort. Untwisting was driven mainly by apical rotation and determined mitral opening and isovolumic relaxation time (
R
=0.47 and 0.61, respectively;
P
<0.001), whereas basal rotation and longitudinal and circumferential diastolic strain rates were major determinants of increased early diastolic filling (
R
=0.64, 0.79, and 0.81, respectively;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

The use of speckle tracking echocardiography gives new insights into physiological adaptive LV mechanics during incremental exercise in healthy subjects, underlining the key role of torsional mechanics. It might be useful to better understand the mechanisms of diastolic dysfunction and exercise intolerance in various pathological conditions.
An Echocardiographic Model Predicting Severity of Aortic Regurgitation in Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Beroukhim Rebecca S. , Graham Dionne A. , Margossian Renee , Brown David W. , Geva Tal , Colan Steven D.
Published: June 2010

Background—

Multiple echocardiographic parameters have been identified to predict the severity of aortic regurgitation (AR) with variable reliability. This study was performed to identify which echocardiographic parameters best predict the severity of AR in a cohort of patients with congenital heart disease, using cardiovascular MRI quantification as a reference standard.

Methods and Results—

The study involved 2 phases. In phase 1, predictive models were developed on the basis of multivariable analysis of various morphometric and Doppler variables obtained from 174 echocardiograms that best predicted the severity of AR as defined by paired cardiovascular MRI examinations. A nonlinear estimate of regurgitation fraction, using the variables parasternal vena contracta-derived area divided by body surface area and abdominal aorta Doppler retrograde velocity-time integral divided by antegrade velocity-time integral, was identified through multivariable analysis as the best predictive model for AR fraction. In phase 2, the predictive models were prospectively tested on 43 echocardiographic examinations for which a paired cardiovascular MRI was performed. The agreement between the observed and predicted AR fraction was assessed using Bland-Altman analysis. For the 30 studies of the validation data set that had adequate quality images of both the parasternal vena contracta width and the abdominal aorta flow profile, the predicted AR values had a mean bias±SD of 0.4±7.3% (
P
=0.80).

Conclusions—

A model using the 2 variables parasternal vena contracta-derived area divided by body surface area and abdominal aorta Doppler retrograde velocity-time integral divided by antegrade velocity-time integral can predict AR severity in patients with a wide variety of congenital heart disease.
Early Dexamethasone Relieves Trigeminal Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Han S.R. , Yeo S.P. , Lee M.K. , Bae Y.C. , Ahn D.K.
Published: June 2010

The analgesic effects of dexamethasone on neuropathic pain have been controversial. The present study investigated the effects of dexamethasone on mechanical allodynia in rats with mal-positioned dental implants. Under anesthesia, the left mandibular second molar was extracted and replaced by a miniature dental implant to injure the inferior alveolar nerve. Nociceptive behavior was examined on each designated day after surgery. Mal-positioned dental implants significantly decreased air-puff thresholds both ipsilateral and contralateral to the injury site. Distinct mechanical hyperalgesia and cold and thermal hypersensitivity were also observed bilaterally. Daily administration of dexamethasone produced prolonged anti-allodynic effects (25 or 50 mg/kg, i.p.), but failed to reduce mechanical allodynia when it had already been established. Therefore, our findings provide that early treatment with dexamethasone is important in the treatment of nociceptive behavior suggestive of trigeminal neuropathic pain.
Design, Operation, and Interpretation of Clinical Trials
Authors: Pihlstrom B.L. , Barnett M.L.
Published: June 2010

Randomized controlled clinical trials offer the best evidence for changing clinical practice and informing public health policy. Using examples from the literature, this paper reviews clinical trials for those who may be unfamiliar with their design, operation, and interpretation. In the design of a clinical trial, the question to be answered and a clinically meaningful outcome must be clearly defined. Ethics must be considered, sample size carefully estimated, and use of biomarkers and surrogate outcomes understood. Prominent issues in trial implementation include developing a manual of operations, trial registration, subject recruitment and retention, use of a data coordinating center, and data and safety monitoring. Interpretation of clinical trials requires understanding differences between efficacy and effectiveness; superiority, equivalence, and non-inferiority; intent-to-treat; primary and secondary analyses; and limitations of unregistered small clinical trials compared with large multi-center Phase III trials that are more likely to be representative of a population and change clinical practice or public health policy.
Mentoring Transition-Age Youth With Blindness
Authors: Bell Edward C.
Published: June 2010

This article reports on a mentoring project designed for transition-age youth (ages 16–26) who are persons with legal blindness. Youth were matched with adult mentors who were also persons with blindness but who have achieved academic and career success. Results demonstrate that youth who participated in the project for 2 years had significant increases in career decision-making efficacy, positive personal hope for the future, and positive attitudes about blindness. Implications for practitioners suggest that mentoring is a valuable tool to assist youth with blindness as they prepare for the academic and work world.
Dissonant cognitions in European works councils: A ‘comparative ethnomethodological’ approach
Authors: Timming Andrew R
Published: June 2010

Drawing from case study research conducted at a UK-based European works council, this article explores the dynamics of cross-national labour relations using a theoretical framework that the author calls ‘comparative ethnomethodology’. The merging of qualitatively distinct national industrial relations systems into one geographical space is identified as a key social psychological obstacle to labour internationalism. When brought together in a transnational context, workers’ representatives frequently suffer from ‘dissonant cognitions’ in consequence of the absence of commonly constituted ‘background assumptions’. This dynamic is exemplified by the interpersonal relations between the British and Dutch delegations in the case study European works council.The study has implications with respect to the debates on the problems, prospects and possibilities of labour internationalism.
Associational control: Between self-management and standardization in the financial sector
Authors: Hvid Helge , Lambrecht Lund Henrik , Grosen Sidsel Lond , Holt Helle
Published: June 2010

Over the last 30 years, the concept of control has had a central position in research into the psychological working environment. Control has been understood as individual autonomy and individual opportunities for development. This article examines whether the concept of control has the same key significance in the modern workplace which is simultaneously characterized by self-management and standardization. It is concluded that the concept of control remains important, but needs to evolve from its focus on the work of individuals to a focus on the associational aspects of work if it is to retain its critical potential. This conclusion is supported by case studies of four Danish banks.
Job demands-resources and early retirement intention: Differences between blue-and white-collar workers
Authors: Schreurs Bert , Van Emmerik Hetty , De Cuyper Nele , Notelaers Guy , De Witte Hans
Published: June 2010

This study investigates workers’ early retirement intention among blue- and white-collar workers along two processes as described in the Job Demands—Resources model: (1) an energetic process wherein job demands are associated positively with early retirement intention through perceived ill-health, and (2) a motivational process wherein job resources are associated negatively with early retirement intention through work enjoyment. Analyses are based on 1812 Belgian workers aged 45 or older. Results from structural equation modelling provided support for the motivational process, with a stronger relationship between job resources and work enjoyment among blue-(vs white-) collar workers. The energetic process was not supported: the relationship between job demands and early retirement intention was direct and not indirect through perceived ill-health, and this relationship was stronger among white- (vs blue-) collar workers.
Heterosexual Romantic Relationships Inside of Prison
Authors: Carcedo Rodrigo J. , Perlman Daniel , Orgaz M. Begoña , López Félix , Fernández-Rouco Noelia , Faldowski Richard A.
Published: June 2010

This study investigated the differences in loneliness, sexual satisfaction, and quality of life among three groups of prison inmates: inmates in a heterosexual romantic relationship with a fellow prisoner, inmates with a partner outside the prison, and inmates without a partner. In-person interviews with 70 male and 70 female inmates from the Topas Penitentiary (Spain) were conducted. These inmates lived in the same facility but in gender-segregated modules. After controlling for age, nationality, total time in prison, actual sentence time served, and estimated time to parole, the results showed a lower level of romantic loneliness, and a higher level of sexual satisfaction and global, psychological, and environment quality of life for the group of inmates with a heterosexual partner inside prison. These findings highlight the positive attributes associated with heterosexual romantic relationships between inmates inside the same prison.
Change in Natural History of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy With Long-term Corticosteroid Treatment: Implications for Management
Authors: Moxley Richard T. , Pandya Shree , Ciafaloni Emma , Fox Deborah J. , Campbell Kim
Published: June 2010

In 2005, the American Academy of Neurology and the Child Neurology Society published a practice parameter, based primarily on studies that involved 6 to 18 months of treatment, indicating that prednisone has a beneficial effect on muscle strength and function in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and recommended that corticosteroids be offered (prednisone 0.75 mg/kg/d and deflazacort 0.9 mg/kg/d) as treatment. Recent reports emphasize that longer term treatment with corticosteroids (greater than 3 years) produces important sustained benefits in neuromuscular function without causing major side effects. This review highlights these reports and indicates that long-term corticosteroid therapy (1) prolongs ambulation by 2 to 5 years, (2) reduces the need for spinal stabilization surgery, (3) improves cardiopulmonary function, (4) delays the need for noninvasive nasal ventilation, and (5) increases survival and the quality of life of patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Educational, vocational, and other social counseling is now a vital part of management for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Exercise and the Onset of Disability in Later Life
Authors: Hunt Kate , Adamson Joy , Ebrahim Shah , Mutrie Nanette
Published: June 2010

Objective: This study was to examine whether overall physical activity levels, and different types of earlier sporting activities, are associated with the onset of locomotor disability in early older age. Method: A longitudinal analysis of a general population cohort of British men and women born in the early 1930s was conducted. Results: Measures of overall activity levels at age 58 did not show a relationship with locomotor disability 5-6 years later. Swimming was the only sporting activity to show any strong evidence of a protective association with later locomotor disability. Discussion: The promotion of swimming in adulthood could play a role in the prevention of locomotor disability and aid people’s ability to follow active living health promotion guidelines in late mid-life and early old-age.
Grief Interrupted: The Experience of Loss Among Incarcerated Women
Authors: Harner Holly M. , Hentz Patricia M. , Evangelista Maria Carmela
Published: June 2010

Incarcerated women face a number of stressors apart from the actual incarceration. Nearly half of all women in prison experience the death of a loved one during their incarceration. Our purpose for this study was to explore the experience of grief and loss among incarcerated women using a phenomenological method. Our study approach followed van Manen’s method of phenomenology and Munhall’s description of existential lifeworlds. Our analysis revealed four existential lifeworlds: temporality: frozen in time; spatiality: no place, no space to grieve; corporeality: buried emotions; and relationality: never alone, yet feeling so lonely. The findings generated from this study can help mental health providers as well as correctional professionals develop policies and programs that facilitate the grief process of incarcerated women within the confines of imprisonment.
Unpacking Assumptions About Inclusion in Community-Based Health Promotion: Perspectives of Women Living in Poverty
Authors: Ponic Pamela , Frisby Wendy
Published: June 2010

Community-based health promoters often aim to facilitate “inclusion” when working with marginalized women to address their exclusion and related health issues. Yet the notion of inclusion has not been critically interrogated within this field, resulting in the perpetuation of assumptions that oversimplify it. We provide qualitative evidence on inclusion as a health-promotion strategy from the perspectives of women living in poverty. We collected data with women engaged in a 6-year community-based health promotion and feminist participatory action research project. Participants’ experiences illustrated that inclusion was a multidimensional process that involved a dynamic interplay between structural determinants and individual agency. The women named multiple elements of inclusion across psychosocial, relational, organizational, and participatory dimensions. This knowledge interrupts assumptions that inclusion is achievable and desirable for so-called recipients of such initiatives. We thus call for critical consideration of the complexities, limitations, and possibilities of facilitating inclusion as a health-promotion strategy.
Outside Looking In: The Lived Experience of Adults With Prematurely Born Siblings
Authors: Gaal Barbara J. , Pinelli Janet , Crooks Dauna , Saigal Saroj , Streiner David L. , Boyle Michael
Published: June 2010

Siblings have unique relationships; however, not all sibling relationships are typical. In North America, the preterm birth rate ranks second only to Africa in a global climate of rising preterm birth rates. A paucity of literature exists for sibling relationships when one sibling is born prematurely. In this hermeneutic phenomenological study, we explored the lived experience of adult siblings with prematurely born, young adult brothers and sisters who subsequently developed disabilities. The 28 siblings, interviewed with open-ended questions, represented 47 families with extremely-low-birth-weight young adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities born between 1977 and 1982. Existential reflection guided by van Manen’s human science approach assisted the analysis of tape-recorded conversations. A structure of meaning entitled “outside looking in” emerged to illustrate the extraordinary relationships forged by the adult siblings with their brothers and sisters throughout their years together.
Glial Cells and Chronic Pain
Authors: Gosselin Romain-Daniel , Suter Marc R. , Ji Ru-Rong , Decosterd Isabelle
Published: June 2010

Over the past few years, the control of pain exerted by glial cells has emerged as a promising target against pathological pain. Indeed, changes in glial phenotypes have been reported throughout the entire nociceptive pathway, from peripheral nerves to higher integrative brain regions, and pharmacological inhibition of such glial reactions reduces the manifestation of pain in animal models. This complex interplay between glia and neurons relies on various mechanisms depending both on glial cell types considered (astrocytes, microglia, satellite cells, or Schwann cells), the anatomical location of the regulatory process (peripheral nerve, spinal cord, or brain), and the nature of the chronic pain paradigm. Intracellularly, recent advances have pointed to the activation of specific cascades, such as mitogen-associated protein kinases (MAPKs) in the underlying processes behind glial activation. In addition, given the large number of functions accomplished by glial cells, various mechanisms might sensitize nociceptive neurons including a release of pronociceptive cytokines and neurotrophins or changes in neurotransmitter-scavenging capacity. The authors review the conceptual advances made in the recent years about the implication of central and peripheral glia in animal models of chronic pain and discuss the possibility to translate it into human therapies in the future.
Relational Inquiry: Generating New Knowledge With Adolescent Girls Who Use Crystal Meth
Authors: Newbury Janet , Hoskins Marie
Published: June 2010

Qualitative research is continuously evolving and expanding as researchers seek methodologies that reflect the intersubjective nature of experience. Relational inquiry is an approach which considers the relationships (a) between researchers and participants, (b) among multiple dimensions of the participant’s lived experience, and (c) between the subjectivity of the participant and the phenomenon under study. In this article, the authors present a study in which the experiences of adolescent girls who use methamphetamines are explored through the use of photograph elicitation. The authors demonstrate how engagement with photographs can bring forth narratives from which researchers, teachers, practitioners, and, indeed, adolescent girls can learn.
Speech Intelligibility and Marital Communication in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Joubert Karin , Bornman Juan , Alant Erna
Published: June 2010

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a rapidly progressive neuromuscular disease, has a devastating impact not only on individuals diagnosed with ALS but also their spouses. Speech intelligibility, often compromised as a result of dysarthria, affects the couple’s ability to maintain effective, intimate communication. The purpose of this exploratory study was to determine the association between the deteriorating speech of persons with ALS (PALS) and couples’ perceptions of marital communication. There were two participant groups: (a) persons with ALS (PALS) and (b) their spouses. Data were collected over a 12-month period through the administration of objective and subjective measures. A review of the findings suggested a positive relation between declining speech intelligibility and a couple’s perception of marital communication. A holistic approach to communication intervention should be adopted for PALS, as communication as a means of facilitating and maintaining intimacy in the marital relationship is particularly pertinent to this population.
The use of rotigotine in the treatment of restless legs syndrome
Authors: Serafini Anna , Lorenzut Simone , Luigi Gigli Gian , Merlino Giovanni , Valente Mariarosaria
Published: June 2010

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by an urge to move the legs often accompanied by unpleasant sensations. Symptoms appear during periods of rest or inactivity, particularly in the evening and at night, and are usually relieved by movement. The prevalence of RLS among Whites is approximately 5—15%. RLS can be distinguished into primary and secondary forms. Most patients (70—80%) are affected by the primary form of RLS. The uncomfortable sensations related to RLS often cause a minimal discomfort, thus a therapeutic approach is not necessary. However, almost 3% of the general population reports to be affected by severe symptoms of RLS, requiring pharmacological treatment. Secondary forms of RLS are relieved by the remission of the underlying clinical condition. Dopamine agonists are considered to be first-line treatments for primary RLS. Rotigotine is a nonergoline dopamine agonist with selectivity for D1, D2 and D3 receptors. It is administered once a day in the form of an adhesive matrix patch. The efficacy and safety of the drug in patients with primary RLS has been demonstrated by four clinical trials using dosages of 0.5, 1, 2, 3 and 4 mg/24 h. A dose—response relationship was observed between the dosages of 0.5 and 3 mg/24 h. Side effects were usually mild, the most frequent being skin reaction at the site of patch application. More trials are ongoing and results will soon be published for the long-term (5 years) treatment of RLS with rotigotine transdermal patches. Rotigotine is a promising drug for the treatment of RLS. Its continuous delivery throughout 24 h makes it especially indicated for those cases also presenting daytime symptoms, and for those presenting the so-called augmentation syndrome after prolonged treatment with L-dopa or dopamine agonists.
The FIBRO System: a rapid strategy for assessment and management of fibromyalgia syndrome
Authors: Boomershine Chad S.
Published: June 2010

Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a complex disorder of widespread pain and tenderness associated with numerous other symptoms including fatigue, cognitive dysfunction, nonrestorative sleep, depression, anxiety, and stiffness. While new diagnostic criteria and previous management guidelines require quantitation of the severity of associated FMS symptoms experienced by individual patients, no system for rapid patient assessment has been made available to provide a basis for diagnosis, treatment selection and follow-up for clinicians in busy practices who have limited time. This review presents the FIBRO System, an easily remembered system for FMS symptom quantitation using the FIBRO mnemonic along with verbal questions on simple 0-10 scales to assess symptom severity (the FIBRO Problem Scale) and response to treatment (the FIBRO Change Scale) along with recommendations for pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic therapies to address individual FIBRO symptoms. This symptom-based approach can improve the care of FMS patients by providing a comprehensive, focused assessment in limited time.
Infantile Hemangiopericytoma
Authors: Michael Kim , Eikmeier April , Mueller Virginia
Published: June 2010

Infantile hemangiopericytoma (HPC) is an uncommon tumor that arises from Zimmermann pericytes. It occurs before 12 months of age and may be present at birth, so intrauterine detection by sonography is possible. These solid, vascular neoplasms typically occur in the subcutaneous tissues of the head and neck and follow a benign course. Diagnosis of infantile HPC must be made by histology, and surgical resection is the most common method of treatment.
Literature Review: Sonographic Diagnosis of Schizencephaly
Authors: Penny Steven M. , Klapp Kileen , Sturdivant Charity
Published: June 2010

Schizencephaly is a congenital brain malformation in which clefts develop in the cerebral hemispheres. This aberration may be described as open lip (type I) or closed lip (type II) and may be further expressed as unilateral or bilateral. Using historical and current research, this article provides embryogenesis, pathogenesis, and possible etiologies of schizencephaly. Furthermore, the postnatal sonographic appearance is discussed, along with associated anomalies and possible outcomes for this exceedingly rare but disruptive brain malformation.
Infection Control in the Sonography Department
Authors: Tunstall Tammy D.
Published: June 2010

Knowledge of how to prevent healthcare-associated infections within the sonography department is an important step in providing quality care. Employing scientifically based preventative measures will ensure that the tools we use do not become vectors for the spread of pathogens that cause infections. These avoidable infections have not only an added financial cost to patients and the already burdened healthcare system but also physical and emotional costs to the patients we treat. Specific infection control guidelines for the sonography department are lacking, and the guidelines that are available are often based on proven infection control practiced in similar situations. Within this article are the applicable infection guidelines sonographers can use to provide safe quality care.
An Exploratory Study of Spatial Ability and Student Achievement in Sonography
Authors: Clem Doug , Anderson Sharlette , Donaldson Joe , Hdeib Moses
Published: June 2010

Spatial ability refers to an individual’s capacity to visualize and mentally manipulate 3D objects. Since sonographers manually manipulate 2D and 3D sonographic images to generate multi-viewed logical, sequential renderings of an anatomical structure, it can be assumed that spatial ability is central to the perception and interpretation of these medical images. However, little is known about the relation between spatial ability and performance of sonographers. This study explores this possible relationship. Seventeen first-year sonography students were administered a spatial abilities test prior to their initial scanning lab coursework. The students’ spatial ability scores were compared with their scanning competency performance scores after the first 30 hours and after two semesters of instruction. A significant relationship between the students’ spatial ability scores and their scanning performance scores was found. This study suggests that the use of spatial ability tests for admission to sonography programs may improve student selection as well as assist programs in adjusting instruction and curriculum for students who demonstrate low spatial ability.
STAT3 controls myeloid progenitor growth during emergency granulopoiesis
Authors: Zhang Huiyuan , Nguyen-Jackson Hoainam , Panopoulos Athanasia D. , Li Haiyan S. , Murray Peter J. , Watowich Stephanie S.
Published: June 2010

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) mediates “emergency” granulopoiesis during infection, a process that is mimicked by clinical G-CSF use, yet we understand little about the intracellular signaling cascades that control demand-driven neutrophil production. Using a murine model with conditional deletion of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in bone marrow, we investigated the cellular and molecular mechanisms of STAT3 function in the emergency granulopoiesis response to G-CSF administration or infection with Listeria monocytogenes, a pathogen that is restrained by G-CSF signaling in vivo. Our results show that STAT3 deficiency renders hematopoietic progenitor cells and myeloid precursors refractory to the growth-promoting functions of G-CSF or L monocytogenes infection. STAT3 is necessary for accelerating granulocyte cell-cycle progression and maturation in response to G-CSF. STAT3 directly controls G-CSF–dependent expression of CCAAT-enhancer-binding protein β (C/EBPβ), a crucial factor in the emergency granulopoiesis response. Moreover, STAT3 and C/EBPβ coregulate c-Myc through interactions with the c-myc promoter that control the duration of C/EBPα occupancy during demand-driven granulopoiesis. These results place STAT3 as an essential mediator of emergency granulopoiesis by its regulation of transcription factors that direct G-CSF–responsive myeloid progenitor expansion.
Multilineage dysplasia (MLD) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) correlates with MDS-related cytogenetic abnormalities and a prior history of MDS or MDS/MPN but has no independent prognostic relevance: a comparison of 408 cases classified as “AML not otherwise specified” (AML-NOS) or “AML with myelodysplasia-related changes” (AML-MRC)
Authors: Miesner Miriam , Haferlach Claudia , Bacher Ulrike , Weiss Tamara , Macijewski Katja , Kohlmann Alexander , Klein Hans-Ulrich , Dugas Martin , Kern Wolfgang , Schnittger Susanne , Haferlach Torsten
Published: June 2010

The World Health Organization classification of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is hierarchically structured and integrates genetics, data on patients' history, and multilineage dysplasia (MLD). The category “AML with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)–related changes” (AML-MRC) is separated from “AML not otherwise specified” (AML-NOS) by presence of MLD, MDS-related cytogenetics, or history of MDS or MDS/myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN). We analyzed 408 adult patients categorized as AML-MRC or AML-NOS. Three-year event-free survival (EFS; median, 13.8 vs 16.0 months) and 3-year overall survival (OS; 45.8% vs 53.9%) did not differ significantly between patients with MLD versus without. However, MLD correlated with preexisting MDS (P < .001) and MDS-related cytogenetics (P = .035). Patients with MLD as sole AML-MRC criterion (AML-MLD-sole; n = 90) had less frequently FLT3 internal tandem duplication (P = .032) and lower median age than AML-NOS (n = 232). Contrarily, patients with AML-NOS combined with AML-MLD-sole (n = 323) had better 3-year EFS (16.9 vs 10.7 months; P = .005) and 3-year OS (55.8% vs 32.5%; P = .001) than patients with history of MDS or MDS/MPN or MDS-related cytogenetics (n = 85). Gene expression analysis showed distinct clusters for AML-MLD-sole combined with AML-NOS versus AML with MDS-related cytogenetics or MDS history. Thus, MLD alone showed no independent clinical effect, whereas cytogenetics and MDS history were prognostically relevant.
Donor selection for natural killer cell receptor genes leads to superior survival after unrelated transplantation for acute myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Cooley Sarah , Weisdorf Daniel J. , Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Klein John P. , Wang Tao , Le Chap T. , Marsh Steven G. E. , Geraghty Daniel , Spellman Stephen , Haagenson Michael D. , Ladner Martha , Trachtenberg Elizabeth , Parham Peter , Miller Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2010

Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) genes form a diverse, immunogenetic system. Group A and B KIR haplotypes have distinctive centromeric (Cen) and telomeric (Tel) gene-content motifs. Aiming to develop a donor selection strategy to improve transplant outcome, we compared the contribution of these motifs to the clinical benefit conferred by B haplotype donors. We KIR genotyped donors from 1409 unrelated transplants for acute myelogenous leukemia (AML; n = 1086) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL; n = 323). Donor KIR genotype influenced transplantation outcome for AML but not ALL. Compared with A haplotype motifs, centromeric and telomeric B motifs both contributed to relapse protection and improved survival, but Cen-B homozygosity had the strongest independent effect. With Cen-B/B homozygous donors the cumulative incidence of relapse was 15.4% compared with 36.5% for Cen-A/A donors (relative risk of relapse 0.34; 95% confidence interval 0.2-0.57; P < .001). Overall, significantly reduced relapse was achieved with donors having 2 or more B gene-content motifs (relative risk 0.64; 95% confidence interval 0.48-0.86; P = .003) for both HLA-matched and mismatched transplants. KIR genotyping of several best HLA-matched potential unrelated donors should substantially increase the frequency of transplants by using grafts with favorable KIR gene content. Adopting this practice could result in superior disease-free survival for patients with AML.
The CS1 segment of fibronectin is involved in human OSCC pathogenesis by mediating OSCC cell spreading, migration, and invasion
Authors: Kamarajan Pachiyappan , Garcia-Pardo Angeles , D'Silva Nisha J , Kapila Yvonne L
Published: June 2010

Background

The alternatively spliced V region or type III connecting segment III (IIICS) of fibronectin is important in early development, wound healing, and tumorigenesis, however, its role in oral cancer has not been fully investigated. Thus, we investigated the role of CS-1, a key site within the CSIII region of fibronectin, in human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

To determine the expression of CS-1 in human normal and oral SCC tissue specimens immunohistochemical analyses were performed. The expression of CS1 was then associated with clinicopathological factors. To investigate the role of CS-1 in regulating OSCC cell spreading, migration and invasion, OSCC cells were assayed for spreading and migration in the presence of a CS-1 peptide or a CS-1 blocking peptide, and for invasion using Matrigel supplemented with these peptides. In addition, integrin α4siRNA or a focal adhesion kinase (FAK) anti-sense oligonucleotide was transfected into OSCC cells to examine the mechanistic role of integrin α4 or FAK in CS1-mediated cell spreading and migration, respectively.

Results

CS-1 expression levels were significantly higher in OSCC tissues compared to normal tissues (p < 0.05). Also, although, high levels of CS-1 expression were present in all OSCC tissue samples, low-grade tumors stained more intensely than high grade tumors. OSCC cell lines also expressed higher levels of CS-1 protein compared to normal human primary oral keratinocytes. There was no significant difference in total fibronectin expression between normal and OSCC tissues and cells. Inclusion of CS-1 in the in vitro assays enhanced OSCC cell spreading, migration and invasion, whereas the CS1 blocking peptide inhibited these processes. Suppression of integrin α4 significantly inhibited the CS1-mediated cell spreading. Furthermore, this migration was mediated by focal adhesion kinase (FAK), since FAK suppression significantly blocked the CS1-induced cell migration.

Conclusion

These data indicate that the CS-1 site of fibronectin is involved in oral cancer pathogenesis and in regulating OSCC cell spreading, migration and invasion.