bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promoting chlamydia screening with posters and leaflets in general practice - a qualitative study
Authors: Freeman Elaine , Howell-Jones Rebecca , Oliver Isabel , Randall Sarah , Ford-Young William , Beckwith Philippa , McNulty Cliodna
Published: October 2009

Background

General practice staff are reluctant to discuss sexual health opportunistically in all consultations. Health promotion materials may help alleviate this barrier. Chlamydia screening promotion posters and leaflets, produced by the English National Chlamydia Screening Programme (NCSP), have been available to general practices, through local chlamydia screening offices, since its launch. In this study we explored the attitudes of general practice staff to these screening promotional materials, how they used them, and explored other promotional strategies to encourage chlamydia screening.

Methods

Twenty-five general practices with a range of screening rates, were purposively selected from six NCSP areas in England. In focus groups doctors, nurses, administrative staff and receptionists were encouraged to discuss candidly their experiences about their use and opinions of posters, leaflets and advertising to promote chlamydia screening. Researchers observed whether posters and leaflets were on display in reception and/or waiting areas. Data were collected and analysed concurrently using a stepwise framework analytical approach.

Results

Although two-thirds of screening practices reported that they displayed posters and leaflets, they were not prominently displayed in most practices. Only a minority of practices reported actively using screening promotional materials on an ongoing basis. Most staff in all practices were not following up the advertising in posters and leaflets by routinely offering opportunistic screening to their target population. Some staff in many practices thought posters and leaflets would cause offence or embarrassment to their patients. Distribution of chlamydia leaflets by receptionists was thought to be inappropriate by some practices, as they thought patients would be offended when being offered a leaflet in a public area. Practice staff suggested the development of pocket-sized leaflets.

Conclusion

The NCSP should consider developing a range of more discrete but eye catching posters and small leaflets specifically to promote chlamydia screening in different scenarios within general practice; coordinators should audit their use. Practice staff need to discuss, with their screening co-ordinator, how different practice staff can promote chlamydia screening most effectively using the NCSP promotional materials, and change them regularly so that they do not loose their impact. Education to change all practice staff's attitudes towards sexual health is needed to reduce their worries about displaying the chlamydia materials, and how they may follow up the advertising up with a verbal offer of screening opportunistically to 15-24 year olds whenever they visit the practice.
Post partum anxiety and depression in peri-urban communities of Karachi, Pakistan: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Ali Niloufer S , Ali Badar S , Azam Iqbal S
Published: October 2009

Background

Postpartum anxiety and depression is a major public health concern because of its adverse effects on the cognitive and social development of the infant. Globally postpartum depression has been widely investigated but as anxiety is a more prominent feature of postpartum depression we assessed the prevalence of anxiety and depression and their associated factors in post partum women.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study investigating the impact of postpartum anxiety and depression on child growth and development was conducted in two peri-urban, multiethnic, communities of Karachi, a mega city of Pakistan. A house to house questionnaire based survey was done by trained field workers; 420 consenting pregnant women were identified and data for socio-demographic, home environment and family relationship variables was collected between 36 weeks of pregnancy and within 10 days of childbirth. Mother's levels of anxiety and depression were assessed after one month, two months, six months and twelve months of childbirth; this was two step process: initially an indigenous, validated screening instrument Aga Khan University Anxiety and Depression Scale was used and diagnostic confirmation was done through a psychologist's interview based on DSM IV criteria. Women found to be anxious and depressed at least once out of four assessments were considered for the computation of overall prevalence of postpartum anxiety and depression as well as its risk factors. However, point prevalence's of postpartum anxiety and depression were also reported at each assessment time. Two sixty seven women could be followed for one year. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Chi-square test, simple and multiple logistic regression were used to see the association of different factors.

Results

The overall prevalence of postpartum anxiety and depression was found to be 28.8 percent. Domestic violence, difficulty in breast feeding at birth and unplanned current pregnancy were found to be significantly associated with postpartum anxiety and depression.

Conclusion

Domestic violence and not having the right to plan pregnancy are related to the patriarchal culture and lack of empowerment of women. The association with difficulties in breast feeding needs to be further explored in future studies
Age-related increases in parathyroid hormone may be antecedent to both osteoporosis and dementia
Authors: Braverman Eric R , Chen Thomas JH , Chen Amanda LC , Arcuri Vanessa , Kerner Mallory M , Bajaj Anish , Carbajal Javier , Braverman Dasha , Downs B William , Blum Kenneth
Published: October 2009

Background

Numerous studies have reported that age-induced increased parathyroid hormone plasma levels are associated with cognitive decline and dementia. Little is known about the correlation that may exist between neurological processing speed, cognition and bone density in cases of hyperparathyroidism. Thus, we decided to determine if parathyroid hormone levels correlate to processing speed and/or bone density.

Methods

The recruited subjects that met the inclusion criteria (n = 92, age-matched, age 18-90 years, mean = 58.85, SD = 15.47) were evaluated for plasma parathyroid hormone levels and these levels were statistically correlated with event-related P300 potentials. Groups were compared for age, bone density and P300 latency. One-tailed tests were used to ascertain the statistical significance of the correlations. The study groups were categorized and analyzed for differences of parathyroid hormone levels: parathyroid hormone levels <30 (n = 30, mean = 22.7 ± 5.6 SD) and PTH levels >30 (n = 62, mean = 62.4 ± 28.3 SD, p ≤ 02).

Results

Patients with parathyroid hormone levels <30 showed statistically significantly less P300 latency (P300 = 332.7 ± 4.8 SE) relative to those with parathyroid hormone levels >30, which demonstrated greater P300 latency (P300 = 345.7 ± 3.6 SE, p = .02). Participants with parathyroid hormone values <30 (n = 26) were found to have statistically significantly higher bone density (M = -1.25 ± .31 SE) than those with parathyroid hormone values >30 (n = 48, M = -1.85 ± .19 SE, p = .04).

Conclusion

Our findings of a statistically lower bone density and prolonged P300 in patients with high parathyroid hormone levels may suggest that increased parathyroid hormone levels coupled with prolonged P300 latency may become putative biological markers of both dementia and osteoporosis and warrant intensive investigation.
Patterns of Plasmodium vivax and Plasmodium falciparum malaria underscore importance of data collection from private health care facilities in India
Authors: Gupta Sangeeta , Gunter James T , Novak Robert J , Regens James L
Published: October 2009

Background

This study describes patterns of falciparum and vivax malaria in a private comprehensive-care, multi-specialty hospital in New Delhi from July 2006 to July 2008.

Methods

Malarial morbidity by Plasmodium species (Plasmodium falciparum, Plasmodium vivax, or Plasmodium sp.) was confirmed using microscopy and antigen tests. The influence of seasonal factors and selected patient demographics on morbidity was evaluated. The proportions of malaria cases caused by P. falciparum at the private facility were compared to data from India's National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) during the same period for the Delhi region.

Results

In New Delhi, P. faciparum was the dominant cause of cases requiring treatment in the private hospital during the period examined. The national data reported a smaller proportion of malaria cases caused by P. falciparum in the national capital region than was observed in a private facility within the region. Plasmodium vivax also caused a large proportion of the cases presenting clinically at the private hospital during the summer and monsoon seasons.

Conclusion

The proportion of P. falciparum malaria cases tends to be greatest during the post-monsoon season while the proportion of P. vivax malaria cases tends to be greatest in the monsoon season. Private hospital data demonstrate an under-reporting of malaria case incidences in the data from India's national surveillance programme during the same period for the national capital region.
Action planning as predictor of health protective and health risk behavior: an investigation of fruit and snack consumption
Authors: van Osch Liesbeth , Beenackers Mariëlle , Reubsaet Astrid , Lechner Lilian , Candel Math , de Vries Hein
Published: October 2009

Background

Large discrepancies between people's intention to eat a healthy diet and actual dietary behavior indicate that motivation is not a sufficient instigator for healthy behavior. Research efforts to decrease this 'intention - behavior gap' have centered on aspects of self-regulation, most importantly self-regulatory planning. Most studies on the impact of self-regulatory planning in health and dietary behavior focus on the promotion of health protective behaviors. This study investigates and compares the predictive value of action planning in health protective behavior and the restriction of health risk behavior.

Methods

Two longitudinal observational studies were performed simultaneously, one focusing on fruit consumption (N = 572) and one on high-caloric snack consumption (N = 585) in Dutch adults. Structural equation modeling was used to investigate and compare the predictive value of action planning in both behaviors, correcting for demographics and the influence of motivational factors and past behavior. The nature of the influence of action planning was investigated by testing mediating and moderating effects.

Results

Action planning was a significant predictor of fruit consumption and restricted snack consumption beyond the influence of motivational factors and past behavior. The strength of the predictive value of action planning did not differ between the two behaviors. Evidence for mediation of the intention - behavior relationship was found for both behaviors. Positive moderating effects of action planning were demonstrated for fruit consumption, indicating that individuals who report high levels of action planning are significantly more likely to translate their intentions into actual behavior.

Conclusion

The results indicate that the planning of specific preparatory actions predicts the performance of healthy dietary behavior and support the application of self-regulatory planning in both health protective and health risk behaviors. Future interventions in dietary modification may turn these findings to advantage by incorporating one common planning protocol to increase the likelihood that good intentions are translated into healthy dietary behavior.
Gene profiling, biomarkers and pathways characterizing HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: De Giorgi Valeria , Monaco Alessandro , Worchech Andrea , Tornesello MariaLina , Izzo Francesco , Buonaguro Luigi , Marincola Francesco M , Wang Ena , Buonaguro Franco M
Published: October 2009

Background

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) worldwide. The molecular mechanisms of HCV-induced hepatocarcinogenesis are not yet fully elucidated. Besides indirect effects as tissue inflammation and regeneration, a more direct oncogenic activity of HCV can be postulated leading to an altered expression of cellular genes by early HCV viral proteins. In the present study, a comparison of gene expression patterns has been performed by microarray analysis on liver biopsies from HCV-positive HCC patients and HCV-negative controls.

Methods

Gene expression profiling of liver tissues has been performed using a high-density microarray containing 36'000 oligos, representing 90% of the human genes. Samples were obtained from 14 patients affected by HCV-related HCC and 7 HCV-negative non-liver-cancer patients, enrolled at INT in Naples. Transcriptional profiles identified in liver biopsies from HCC nodules and paired non-adjacent non-HCC liver tissue of the same HCV-positive patients were compared to those from HCV-negative controls by the Cluster program. The pathway analysis was performed using the BRB-Array- Tools based on the "Ingenuity System Database". Significance threshold of t-test was set at 0.001.

Results

Significant differences were found between the expression patterns of several genes falling into different metabolic and inflammation/immunity pathways in HCV-related HCC tissues as well as the non-HCC counterpart compared to normal liver tissues. Only few genes were found differentially expressed between HCV-related HCC tissues and paired non-HCC counterpart.

Conclusion

In this study, informative data on the global gene expression pattern of HCV-related HCC and non-HCC counterpart, as well as on their difference with the one observed in normal liver tissues have been obtained. These results may lead to the identification of specific biomarkers relevant to develop tools for detection, diagnosis, and classification of HCV-related HCC.
TonB-dependent transporters and their occurrence in cyanobacteria
Authors: Mirus Oliver , Strauss Sascha , Nicolaisen Kerstin , von Haeseler Arndt , Schleiff Enrico
Published: October 2009

Background

Different iron transport systems evolved in Gram-negative bacteria during evolution. Most of the transport systems depend on outer membrane localized TonB-dependent transporters (TBDTs), a periplasma-facing TonB protein and a plasma membrane localized machinery (ExbBD). So far, iron chelators (siderophores), oligosaccharides and polypeptides have been identified as substrates of TBDTs. For iron transport, three uptake systems are defined: the lactoferrin/transferrin binding proteins, the porphyrin-dependent transporters and the siderophore-dependent transporters. However, for cyanobacteria almost nothing is known about possible TonB-dependent uptake systems for iron or other substrates.

Results

We have screened all publicly available eubacterial genomes for sequences representing (putative) TBDTs. Based on sequence similarity, we identified 195 clusters, where elements of one cluster may possibly recognize similar substrates. For Anabaena sp. PCC 7120 we identified 22 genes as putative TBDTs covering almost all known TBDT subclasses. This is a high number of TBDTs compared to other cyanobacteria. The expression of the 22 putative TBDTs individually depends on the presence of iron, copper or nitrogen.

Conclusion

We exemplified on TBDTs the power of CLANS-based classification, which demonstrates its importance for future application in systems biology. In addition, the tentative substrate assignment based on characterized proteins will stimulate the research of TBDTs in different species. For cyanobacteria, the atypical dependence of TBDT gene expression on different nutrition points to a yet unknown regulatory mechanism. In addition, we were able to clarify a hypothesis of the absence of TonB in cyanobacteria by the identification of according sequences.
On the steps of cell-to-cell HIV transmission between CD4 T cells
Authors: Puigdomènech Isabel , Massanella Marta , Cabrera Cecilia , Clotet Bonaventura , Blanco Julià
Published: October 2009

Although cell-to-cell HIV transmission was defined in early 90's, in the last five years, several groups have underscored the relevance of this mode of HIV spread between productively infected and uninfected CD4 T cells by defining the term virological synapse (VS). However, unraveling the molecular mechanisms of this efficient mode of viral spread appears to be more controversial than expected. Different authors have highlighted the role of a classical co-receptor-dependent HIV transmission while others describe a co-receptor-independent mechanism as predominant in VS. By analyzing different cellular models (primary cells and cell lines), we suggest that primary cells are highly sensitive to the physical passage of viral particles across the synapses, a co-receptor-independent phenomenon that we call "HIV transfer". Once viral particles are transferred, they can infect target cells by a co-receptor-dependent mechanism that fits with the classical meaning of "HIV transmission" and that is much more efficient in cell lines. Differences in the ability of primary CD4 T cells and cell lines to support HIV transfer and transmission explain most of the reported controversial data and should be taken into account when analyzing cell-to-cell HIV spread. Moreover, the terms transfer and transmission may be useful to define the events occurring at the VS. Thus, HIV particles would be transferred across synapses, while HIV infection would be transmitted between cells. Chronologically, HIV transfer is an early event occurring immediately after the VS formation, which precedes but does not inevitably lead to transmission, a late event resulting in infection.
No effect of mate novelty on sexual motivation in the freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata
Authors: Häderer Ines K , Werminghausen Johanna , Michiels Nico K , Timmermeyer Nadine , Anthes Nils
Published: October 2009

Background

When mating effort (e.g. via ejaculates) is high, males are expected to strategically allocate their resources depending on the expected fitness gains from a given mating opportunity. One mechanism to achieve strategic mating is the Coolidge effect, where male sexual motivation declines across repeated encounters with a familiar partner, but resuscitates when encountering a novel female. Experimental tests of male mate choice via mechanisms such as the Coolidge effect, however, remain scarce. Moreover, it is untested to date whether the Coolidge effect occurs in a sex-specific manner in simultaneous hermaphrodites, where the motivation to mate with a familiar partner may vary with previous mating activity in the male or female role.

Results

We exposed focal hermaphroditic freshwater snails, Biomphalaria glabrata, repeatedly to either a familiar or a novel partner. None of our proxies of sexual motivation (remating likelihood, mating delay, copulation duration) varied between the novel and familiar partner treatments. Moreover, the mating role taken during the first copulation did not affect the subsequent choice of mating roles in the familiar partner treatment as would be expected if focals preferred to avoid mating twice in the same role with a familiar partner. This indicates the absence of sex-specific effects of partner novelty.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that mate novelty does affect neither overall sexual motivation nor the choice of mating roles in B. glabrata. Hence, male mate choice via a Coolidge effect appears inexistent in this invertebrate hermaphrodite. We discuss the possible roles of insufficient fitness gains for discriminatory behaviour in populations with frequent mate encounters as well as poor mate discrimination capacities. Our findings lend also no support to the novel prediction that sexual motivation in simultaneous hermaphrodites varies with the mating roles taken during previous copulations, calling for empirical investigation in further hermaphrodite systems.
A cross-sectional study of food group intake and C-reactive protein among children
Authors: Qureshi M Mustafa , Singer Martha R , Moore Lynn L
Published: October 2009

Background

C-reactive protein (CRP), a marker of sub-clinical inflammation, is a predictor of future cardiovascular diseases. Dietary habits affect serum CRP level however the relationship between consumption of individual food groups and CRP levels has not been established.

Methods

This study was designed to explore the relation between food intake and CRP levels in children using data from the cross-sectional 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. CRP level was classified as low, average or high (<1.0, 1.0-3.0, and >3.0 mg/L, respectively). Adjusted mean daily intakes of dairy, grains, fruit, vegetables, and meat/other proteins in each CRP category were estimated using multivariate analysis of covariance modeling. The effect modification by age (5-11 years vs. 12-16 years), gender and race/ethnicity was explored. We examined whether total or central body fat (using BMI Z-scores and waist circumference) explained any of the observed associations.

Results

A total of 4,010 children and adolescents had complete information on diet, CRP and all covariates of interest and were included in the analyses. Individuals with high CRP levels had significantly lower intake of grains (p < 0.001) and vegetables (p = 0.0002). Selected individual food subgroups (e.g., fluid milk and "citrus, melon and berry" consumption) were more strongly associated with lower CRP than were their respective major food groups. Consumption of meat/other proteins did not influence CRP levels. The addition of body composition variables to the models attenuated the results for all food groups to varying degrees.

Conclusion

Children and adolescents with higher CRP levels had significantly lower intakes of grains and vegetables. The associations between selected childhood dietary patterns and CRP levels seem largely mediated through effects on body composition.
Morphine Modulation of Pain Processing in Medial and Lateral Pain Pathways
Authors: Wang Jin-Yan , Huang Jin , Chang Jing-Yu , Woodward Donald J , Luo Fei
Published: October 2009

Background

Despite the wide-spread use of morphine and related opioid agonists in clinic and their powerful analgesic effects, our understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying opioid analgesia at supraspinal levels is quite limited. The present study was designed to investigate the modulative effect of morphine on nociceptive processing in the medial and lateral pain pathways using a multiple single-unit recording technique. Pain evoked neuronal activities were simultaneously recorded from the primary somatosensory cortex (SI), ventral posterolateral thalamus (VPL), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and medial dorsal thalamus (MD) with eight-wire microelectrode arrays in awake rats.

Results

The results showed that the noxious heat evoked responses of single neurons in all of the four areas were depressed after systemic injection of 5 mg/kg morphine. The depressive effects of morphine included (i) decreasing the neuronal response magnitude; (ii) reducing the fraction of responding neurons, and (iii) shortening the response duration. In addition, the capability of cortical and thalamic neural ensembles to discriminate noxious from innocuous stimuli was decreased by morphine within both pain pathways. Meanwhile, morphine suppressed the pain-evoked changes in the information flow from medial to lateral pathway and from cortex to thalamus. These effects were completely blocked by pre-treatment with the opiate receptor antagonist naloxone.

Conclusion

These results suggest that morphine exerts analgesic effects through suppressing both sensory and affective dimensions of pain.
Polymorphisms of the ICAM-1 exon 6 (E469K) are associated with differentiation of colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Qing-lei , Li Bing-hui , Liu Bin , Liu Ya-bin , Liu Yue-Ping , Miao Sui-Bing , Han Yi , Wen Jin-Kun , Han Mei
Published: October 2009

Background

Genetic factors are thought to play a role in development for colorectal carcinogenesis. ICAM-1 is a polymorphic gene, thus, the present study investigated the relationship between the polymorphisms of ICAM-1 and the susceptibility and phenotypical characteristics of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

The polymorphisms at ICAM-1 exon 4 (G241R) and exon 6 (E469K) were detected by PCR with sequence-specific primers. The relationship between specific genotypes of ICAM-1 and differentiation of CRC was evaluated by the histological grade.

Results

We showed only GG genotype of ICAM-1 individuals in either CRC or normal controls. The KK genotype of ICAM-1 K469E was found more frequently than in the controls (P < 0.05). Patients with well-differentiated CRC displayed the KK more frequently than those of poor differentiation (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The findings indicate that polymorphisms of G241R are rare in Chinese population and that KK genotype of ICAM-1 K469E is significantly associated with well differentiation of CRC.
Are CD4+CD25-Foxp3+cells in untreated new-onset lupus patients regulatory T cells?
Authors: Yang Hua-xia , Zhang Wen , Zhao Li-dan , Li Yang , Zhang Feng-chun , Tang Fu-lin , He Wei , Zhang Xuan
Published: October 2009

Introduction

Our previous study has reported that, in patients with untreated new-onset lupus (UNOL), there was an abnormal increase in the number of CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ T cells that correlated with disease activity and significantly decreased after treatment. However, little is known about the nature of this cell entity. The aim of this study was to explore the nature of abnormally increased CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ T cells in UNOL patients.

Methods

The expressions of surface (CD4, CD25, CD127, chemokine receptor 4 [CCR4], glucocorticoid-induced tumor necrosis factor receptor [GITR], and cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 [CTLA-4]) and intracellular (Foxp3) molecules as well as cytokine synthesis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 22 UNOL patients were analyzed by flow cytometry. The proliferative and suppressive capacities of different T-cell subgroups from UNOL patients were also assessed.

Results

In UNOL patients, the percentages of CD127low/- in CD25high, CD25low, and CD25- subpopulations of CD4+Foxp3+ T cells were 93.79% ± 3.48%, 93.66% ± 2.31%, and 91.98% ± 2.14%, respectively (P > 0.05), whereas the expressions of Foxp3 showed significant differences in CD25high (91.38% ± 2.57%), CD25low (71.89% ± 3.31%), and CD25- (9.02% ± 2.21%) subpopulations of CD4+CD127low/- T cells (P < 0.01). The expressions of surface CCR4, GITR, and CTLA-4 on CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ T cells were significantly less than CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells (P < 0.05). Moreover, unlike CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells, CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ T cells also synthesized interferon-gamma, interleukin (IL)-4, IL-2, and IL-17 (P < 0.05), though less than CD4+CD25+Foxp3- T cells. The suppressive capacity was most prominent in CD4+CD25highCD127low/-, followed by CD4+CD25lowCD127low/-. CD4+CD25-CD127- T cells showed the least suppressive capacity, which was similar to the effector T cells.

Conclusions

CD4+CD25-Foxp3+ T cells in UNOL patients are different from regulatory T cells, both phenotypically and functionally. CD127 is not an appropriate surface marker for intracellular Foxp3 in CD4+CD25- T cells.
BU-32: a novel proteasome inhibitor for breast cancer
Authors: Agyin Joseph K , Santhamma Bindu , Nair Hareesh B , Roy Sudipa S , Tekmal Rajeshwar R
Published: October 2009

Introduction

Proteasome inhibition provides an attractive approach to cancer therapy and may have application in the treatment of breast cancer. However, results of recent clinical trials to evaluate the effect of the proteasome inhibitor Bortezomib (Velcade®, also called PS-341) in metastatic breast cancer patients have shown limited activity when used as a single agent. This underscores the need to find new and more efficacious proteasome inhibitors. In this study, we evaluate the efficacy of the novel proteasome inhibitor BU-32 (NSC D750499-S) using in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models.

Methods

We have recently synthesized a novel proteasome inhibitor (BU-32) and tested its growth inhibitory effects in different breast cancer cells including MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and SKBR3 by in vitro cytotoxicity and proteasomal inhibition assays. The apoptotic potential of BU32 was tested using flow cytometry and analyzing cell cycle regulatory proteins. In vivo tumor xenograft studies for solid tumor as well as tumor metastasis were conducted using MDA-MB-231-GFP cells.

Results

We report for the first time that BU-32 exhibits strong cytotoxicity in a panel of cell lines: MDA-MB-231 (IC50 = 5.8 nM), SKBR3 (IC50 = 5.7 nM) and MCF-7 cells (IC50 = 5.8 nM). It downregulates a wide array of angiogenic marker genes and upregulates apoptotic markers, including Bid and Bax. Incubation of MDA-MB-231 cells with BU-32 results in the accumulation of cell cycle inhibitor proteins p21 and p27 and stabilization of the tumor suppressor protein p53. Studies in in vivo solid tumor and metastasis models show significant effect with a 0.06 mg/kg dose of BU-32 and marked reduction in tumor burden in the skeleton.

Conclusions

We have shown that BU-32 is effective in cultured breast cancer cells and in breast cancer xenografts. The results suggest its potential benefit in breast cancer treatment.
Methemoglobinemia in critically ill patients during extended hemodialysis and simultaneous disinfection of the hospital water supply
Authors: Bek Martin Johannes , Laule Sven , Reichert-Jünger Christine , Holtkamp Rainer , Wiesner Michael , Keyl Cornelius
Published: October 2009

Introduction

To evaluate the cause of methemoglobinemia in patients undergoing extended daily hemodialysis/hemodiafiltration we analyzed the relationship between methemoglobinemia and the water disinfection schedule of the hospital.

Methods

We reviewed all arterial blood gas analyses, obtained over a one-year period, in patients undergoing extended hemodialysis/hemodiafiltration, and compared the methemoglobin concentrations obtained on the days when the water supply was disinfected, using a hydrogen peroxide/silver ion preparation, with data measured on disinfection-free days.

Results

The evaluation of 706 measurements revealed a maximum methemoglobin fraction of 1.0 (0.8; 1.2) % (median and 25th; 75th percentiles) during hemodialysis/hemodiafiltration on the disinfection-free days. The methemoglobin fraction increased to 5.9 (1.3; 8.4) % with a maximal value of 12.2% on the days of water disinfection (P < 0.001 compared to disinfection-free days). Spot checks on hydrogen peroxide concentrations in the water supply, the permeate, and the dialysate, using a semi-quantitative test, demonstrated levels between 10 and 25 mg/l during water disinfection.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that even a regular hospital water disinfection technique can be associated with significant methemoglobinemia during extended hemodialysis. Clinicians should be aware of this potential hazard.
Computerized intensive insulin dosing can mitigate hypoglycemia and achieve tight glycemic control when glucose measurement is performed frequently and on time
Authors: Juneja Rattan , Roudebush Corbin P , Nasraway Stanley A , Golas Adam A , Jacobi Judith , Carroll Joni , Nelson Deborah , Abad Victor J , Flanders Samuel J
Published: October 2009

Introduction

Control of blood glucose (BG) in critically ill patients is considered important, but is difficult to achieve, and often associated with increased risk of hypoglycemia. We examined the use of a computerized insulin dosing algorithm to manage hyperglycemia with particular attention to frequency and conditions surrounding hypoglycemic events.

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of adult patients with hyperglycemia receiving intravenous (IV) insulin therapy from March 2006 to December 2007 in the intensive care units of 2 tertiary care teaching hospitals. Patients placed on a glycemic control protocol using the Clarian GlucoStabilizer™ IV insulin dosing calculator with a target range of 4.4-6.1 mmol/L were analyzed. Metrics included time to target, time in target, mean blood glucose ± standard deviation, % measures in hypoglycemic ranges <3.9 mmol/L, per-patient hypoglycemia, and BG testing interval.

Results

4,588 ICU patients were treated with the GlucoStabilizer to a BG target range of 4.4-6.1 mmol/L. We observed 254 severe hypoglycemia episodes (BG <2.2 mmol/L) in 195 patients, representing 0.1% of all measurements, and in 4.25% of patients or 0.6 episodes per 1000 hours on insulin infusion. The most common contributing cause for hypoglycemia was measurement delay (n = 170, 66.9%). The median (interquartile range) time to achieve the target range was 5.9 (3.8 - 8.9) hours. Nearly all (97.5%) of patients achieved target and remained in target 73.4% of the time. The mean BG (± SD) after achieving target was 5.4 (± 0.52) mmol/L. Targeted blood glucose levels were achieved at similar rates with low incidence of severe hypoglycemia in patients with and without diabetes, sepsis, renal, and cardiovascular disease.

Conclusions

Glycemic control to a lower glucose target range can be achieved using a computerized insulin dosing protocol. With particular attention to timely measurement and adjustment of insulin doses the risk of hypoglycemia experienced can be minimized.
Synthesis of Ordered Macroporous Co3O4 Microspheres via an Easy Melt Infiltration Route
Authors: Feng Shaoqing , Zheng Mingbo , Li Nianwu , Ji Guangbin , Cao Jieming
Published: October 2009

Uniform Co3O4 microspheres with ordered macroporous structure were synthesized via an easy melt infiltration method. Colloidal silica crystal was used as a hard template and Co(NO3)2·6H2O as the precursor. The samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. A formation mechanism was also proposed.
Diastereo- and Enantioselective Direct Henry Reaction of Pyruvates Mediated by Chiral P-Spiro Tetraaminophosphonium Salts
Authors: Uraguchi Daisuke , Ito Takaki , Nakamura Shinji , Sakaki Sawako , Ooi Takashi
Published: October 2009

The stereoselective direct Henry reaction of pyruvates mediated by chiral P-spiro tetraaminophosphonium salts is described. High levels of diastereo- and enantioselectivities have been achieved by the use of l-valine-derived (P,S)-2e bearing para-chlorophenyl groups as a precatalyst.
Thermoresponsive Polyphosphoesters Bearing Enzyme-cleavable Side Chains
Authors: Iwasaki Yasuhiko , Kawakita Takashi , Yusa Shin-ichi
Published: October 2009

Thermoresponsive polyphosphoesters bearing acetoxymethyl (AM) groups were newly synthesized. The polymers had the LCST-type cloud point in aqueous media, and the thermoresponsive phenomena was influenced by the condition of the medium. About 40% of the AM groups in the polymers were cleaved in contact with esterase for 24 h in phosphate buffer solution. This was significant compared with the spontaneous cleavage in the buffer solution. After the cleavage of the AM groups, the thermoresponsivity of the polyphosphoesters was diminished.
Thermotropic Columnar Liquid Crystal of a C6-Symmetric Hydrogen-bonded Hexakis(phenylethynyl)benzene Derivative with Amino Acid Pendant Groups
Authors: Sakajiri Koichi , Yoshida Hironori , Moriya Keiichi , Kutsumizu Shoichi
Published: October 2009

The thermotropic liquid crystalline C6-symmetric hydrogen-bonded disk-like molecule has been obtained in a hexakis(phenylethynyl)benzene derivative bearing chiral didodecyl l-glutamates, which forms a hexagonal columnar phase over a wide temperature range including room temperature, where each π–π stacking between the large central cores is reinforced by the six intermolecular hydrogen bonds.
Synthesis and Stability of Optically Active Benzylmethylphenyltelluronium Salts
Authors: Shimizu Toshio , Azami Yoko , Sakurai Ryuuya , Hirabayashi Kazunori , Kamigata Nobumasa
Published: October 2009

Diastereomeric benzylmethylphenyltelluronium salt was synthesized and optically resolved into the respective optical isomers. The absolute configurations of the isomers were determined by X-ray analysis of the (−)-isomer. Enantiomeric telluronium salts were also obtained by anion-exchange reactions of the diastereomeric isomers. Optically active telluronium bromide was found to racemize in solution and the racemization was indicated to occur through the elimination of benzyl bromide.
A S-Bridged CoIIICuIICoIII Trinuclear Complex with an Unusual Copper(II) Ion Bound by Four Aliphatic Thiolato Donors
Authors: Konno Takumi , Tamai Toshihiro , Kawamoto Tatsuya , Tsuge Kiyoshi , Igashira-Kamiyama Asako
Published: October 2009

Treatment of ΔΔ-[NiII{CoIII(aet)2(R,R-chxn)}2](ClO4)4 (Haet = 2-aminoethanethiol, R,R-chxn = 1R,2R-cyclohexanediamine) with Cu(ClO4)2 in water gave ΔΔ-[CuII{CoIII(aet)2(R,R-chxn)}2](ClO4)4 (1), in which a central copper(II) ion is surrounded by four aliphatic thiolato donors in a twisted square-planar geometry. Complex 1 was converted to ΔΔ-[CuICl{CoIII(aet)2(R,R-chxn)}2](ClO4)2 (2) by treatment with NaCl in water, while 2 was reverted back to 1 by treatment with NaClO4.
Depressive effect of an antidepressant: therapeutic failure of venlafaxine in a case lacking CYP2D6 activity
Authors: Wijnen P A H M , Limantoro I , Drent M , Bekers O , Kuijpers P M J C , Koek G H
Published: October 2009

Understanding the mechanisms of drug metabolism and interactions can help to prevent side-effects. Not only drug interactions, environmental factors, disease processes and ageing are factors in the inter-individual metabolic capacity variance but also genetic factors probably play an important role, as is illustrated in the case presented. Besides therapeutic drug monitoring, genotyping some important cytochrome P450 (CYP450) enzymes was of additional value in explaining why the patient developed severe adverse effects and, moreover, did not experience any therapeutical effect of venlafaxine. Results indicated that the patient was a poor metabolizer for CYP2D6, the most important phase I enzyme to metabolize venlafaxine. This corroborates that polymorphisms in the CYP450 gene influence the metabolic activity of the corresponding enzymes, thus affecting the subsequent serum drug levels and their metabolites. This case highlights the potential benefit of both clinical and genetic risk stratification (pharmacogenetics) prior to treatment, either for setting the individual dose or for making a decision about using a particular drug.
Intravenous fluid therapy – an under-recognized patient safety opportunity
Authors: Smellie W S A
Published: October 2009

Inappropriate fluid regimens are rarely documented as being responsible for patient harm, although there is considerable circumstantial evidence to suggest that fluid overload may be a considerably under-estimated source of patient morbidity and mortality. The GIFTASUP fluid management guidelines published in 2008 offer a valuable opportunity to consider a more standardised approach to fluid management, possibly in the context of developing routine hospital services to support good practice.
Die Präferenztheorie in der historischen Phonologie aus junggrammatischer Perspektive
Authors: Hill Eugen
Published: October 2009

The paper deals with the so-called Preference Theory developed in the works of Theo Vennemann and Robert Murray within the scope of historical phonology. The first part of the paper examines the constituting assumptions and claims of the theory. The goal of the preference-based historical phonology – uncovering the motivation for sound changes which the Neogrammarian methodology can merely describe – will be achieved only if the universal preferences are reliably established. It is shown that the procedures which are employed to extract the universal preferences from empirical data do not lead to reliable results. The reason for this is the failure of the Preference Theory to distinguish in a non-arbitrary way between the alleged universally preferred structures and the mere by-products of sound changes with different or unknown motivation. The second part of the paper examines a recently suggested modification of the traditional notion of the exceptionlessness of sound changes. According to Vennemann, the traditional exceptionless sound changes are in fact to be considered as non-exclusive tendencies towards universally more preferred phonological structures. The paper shows that this position is neither based on the core assumptions of the Preference Theory nor supported by the adduced empirical evidence.
Skandal im Verbkomplex. Betrachtungen zur scheinbar inkorrekten Morphologie in infiniten Verbkomplexen des Deutschen
Authors: Vogel Ralf
Published: October 2009

In German infinite verbal complexes with three verbs we can observe a phenomenon which so far has been treated as an irregular exception, because in a particular order, so-called ‘312 order’, all three verbs seem to occur in a wrong form. Corpus research shows, however, that the putative exception has a systematic character and can be observed over a longer time in German. This article therefore tries to take a different perspective: the problem does not lie in the exceptional expressions, but rather in our theory of German grammar which so far has not been able to derive the structures as regular. We present an optimality theoretic account of sentence final verbal complexes in German which is able to derive all systematically occurring expressions. The account comes with the cost that some thus far widely shared assumptions have to be revised. These assumptions concern the role of the infinitive marker ‘zu’ as well as the role of participial and infinitival morphology.
Guide to ASTM Test Methods for the Analysis of Coal and Coke
Authors: Nadkarni R. A. Kishore
Published: October 2009

Description

Features ALL 55 ASTM analytical test methods under the jurisdiction of Committee D05 on Coal and Coke

The essential elements of all ASTM analytical tests used to characterize coal and coke are now available in one unique volume.

This guide includes brief descriptions of all 56 ASTM test methods that cover the physical, chemical, and spectroscopic analytical techniques to qualitatively and quantitatively identify over 40 chemical and physical properties of coal, coke, their products, and by-products.

ASTM Committee D05 leads the worldwide efforts to standardize the test methods used to characterize coal and coke properties. These ASTM standards are considered to be final authority for the quality of a coal or coke related product.
Unique Friction and Wear Tester for Fundamental Tribology Research
Authors: Fiderer L
Published: October 2009

An apparatus has been developed to test the sliding friction and wear characteristics of various ceramic and other high-temperature material combinations, in the bare and solid lubricated modes, subjected to a wide spectrum of environmental conditions. In the friction tester, a cylindrical rod specimen is rotated while two stationary samples (rub shoes) are forced against the rotating surface from opposite sides under a wide range of loads, speeds, and temperatures. The friction contact surfaces can be heated to temperatures ranging from 25 to 871°C. Sliding contact speeds can be varied from 0.5 to 5.0 m/s and normal contact forces can be adjusted up to 200 N. The applied load can be either a steady-state force or a repetitive function (sinusoidal or other), with frequencies up to 50 Hz, thus simulating the actual loading conditions found in many types of machinery. Each stationary specimen can be readily changed to permit tests with flat, concave or convex cylindrical, and with spherical contact surfaces. The atmosphere surrounding the contact area can be purged either with standard air or an inert gas, such as dry nitrogen, helium, or argon. Unlike other high temperature testers, it does not require a large furnace, but uses a compact infrared quartz lamp heater. The apparatus has instrumentation to monitor the temperature, speeds, and combined wear depth on the stationary and rotating surfaces. Despite its versatility and many capabilities, the tester is relatively simple, constructed with readily available state-of-the-art components, and is easily operated. This paper describes the background leading to the development of the tester, its principles of operation, design details, and the results of mechanical and thermal tests validating the design concept.
Pin-On-Disk Wear Tests for Evaluating Ceramic Cutting Tool Materials
Authors: Tennenhouse GJ , Runkle FD
Published: October 2009

Pin-on-disk wear tests have shown that oxygen is a significant factor in the wear of both silicon nitride-and tungsten carbide-based tool materials against common iron-based alloys such as cast iron and steel. It was not expected that pin-on-disk wear tests could be related to tool wear in machining processes because the mechanical processes involved were different. However, it was found that if speeds, pressures, and environments were the same, there were surprisingly good correlations between the pin-on-disk tests and machining operations such as turning and boring.
Systematic Testing of Ceramic Rolling Bearing Elements
Authors: Wedeven LD , Pallini RA , Hingley CG
Published: October 2009

Several levels of ceramic test devices are recommended for the tribological evaluation of ceramic materials for high thermally and mechanically stressed rolling element bearings. A high temperature traction rig, four-ball rig, and full-scale bearing rig provide a systematic series of tests that are used as part of the design and development process for ceramic bearings. Operation of the traction rig from pure rolling to incipient sliding and gross slip allows evaluation of ceramic materials under controlled conditions of normal and tangential shear stress.
Determination of the Shear Stability of Non-Newtonian Liquids
Authors: Lawson Neal D.
Published: October 2009

Section B on Viscosity Methods— Non-Newtonian Liquids, of Research Division VII on Flow Properties, of ASTM Committee D-2 on Petroleum Products and Lubricants has been assigned the responsibility of developing test methods for measuring the shear stability of non-Newtonian liquids and for measuring the viscosity of non-Newtonian liquids at high rates of shear. In order to carry out the first of these assignments, the section at its meeting in Washington, D. C. on February 4, 1952, decided to undertake cooperative work to determine which, if any, of the methods in use at various laboratories were suitable for measuring the shear stability of mineral oils containing high molecular weight polymers.
Novel Delivery Systems for Integrated Pest Management
Authors: Hutchins Scott H. , Swayze Karen M.
Published: October 2009

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) has long been a concept embraced by biologists in academia and government, but often the theory of IPM has outpaced the reality of private-sector technology development. Times have now changed and the private sector has developed the vision and products to enable IPM using biological, chemical, and cultural practices. In this paper, we explore the success and continued challenges of developing delivery systems (including formulations) that improve the regulatory profile, expand the performance, minimize off-target effects, and create positive supply-side economics for the manufacturer. Indeed, the changing face of agricultural production, regulation, and competition has created the perfect opportunity—right now—to reinvent our product profiles and raise the bar. The regulatory paradigm that only actives will be of concern has changed in most parts of the world and now must be a consideration with the composition of most products. Precision delivery of actives, irrespective of their formulation, also may enable the utility of older molecules to be rejuvenated and expanded. All of these uncertainties provide risks, but for the wise, also present opportunities to extend the value of older technology with proprietary approaches and to ensure newer technologies see a long life in IPM systems.