bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors Correlated With Risk of Insulin Resistance Using Homeostasis Model Assessment in Adolescents in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Shiyng-Yu , Su Chien-Tien , Hsieh Yi-Chen , Li Yu-Ling , Chen Yih-Ru , Cheng Shu-Yun , Hu Chien-Ming , Chen Yi-Hua , Hsieh Fang-I , Chiou Hung-Yi
Published: January 2013

The study aims to discover risk factors significantly correlated with insulin resistance among adolescents in Taiwan. A total of 339 study subjects were recruited in this cross-sectional study. A self-administered questionnaire and physical examinations including anthropometrics and biochemistry profiles were collected. Insulin resistance was assessed using homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Study subjects had a significantly increased risk of IR for those with abnormal level of body mass index (odds ratio [OR] = 3.54; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.81-6.91), body fat (OR = 2.71; 95% CI = 1.25-5.88), and waist circumference (OR = 25.04; 95% CI = 2.93-214.14) when compared with those who have normal values. Furthermore, a significantly joint effect of 10.86-fold risk for HOMA-IR abnormality among body fat, body mass index, and systolic blood pressure was observed. The identification of risk factors significantly correlated with IR will be important to prevent metabolic syndrome–related diseases and complications for adolescents in their future life.
A review of episodes of zinc phosphide toxicosis in wild geese (Branta spp.) in Oregon (2004–2011)
Authors: Bildfell Rob J. , Rumbeiha Wilson K. , Schuler Krysten L. , Meteyer Carol U. , Wolff Peregrine L. , Gillin Colin M.
Published: January 2013

Epizootic mortality in several geese species, including cackling geese ( Branta hutchinsii) and Canada geese ( Branta canadensis), has been recognized in the Willamette Valley of Oregon for over a decade. Birds are generally found dead on a body of water or are occasionally observed displaying neurologic clinical signs such as an inability to raise or control the head prior to death. Investigation of these epizootic mortality events has revealed the etiology to be accidental poisoning with the rodenticide zinc phosphide (Zn3P2). Gross and histologic changes are restricted to acute pulmonary congestion and edema, sometimes accompanied by distension of the upper alimentary tract by fresh grass. Geese are unusually susceptible to this pesticide; when combined with an epidemiologic confluence of depredation of specific agricultural crops by rodents and seasonal avian migration pathways, epizootic toxicosis may occur. Diagnosis requires a high index of suspicion, appropriate sample collection and handling, plus specific test calibration for this toxicant. Interagency cooperation, education of farmers regarding pesticide use, and enforcement of regulations has been successful in greatly decreasing these mortality events since 2009.
Computational micromechanics modeling of inherent piezoresistivity in carbon nanotube–polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Ren Xiang , Seidel Gary D
Published: January 2013

It has been observed that carbon nanotubes have a measurable inherent piezoresistive effect, that is to say that changes in carbon nanotube strain can induce changes in carbon nanotube resistivity, which may lead to observable macroscale piezoresistive response of carbon nanotube–polymer nanocomposites. In this article, the focus is on modeling the effect of inherent piezoresistivity of carbon nanotubes on the nanocomposite’s piezoresistive behavior using computational micromechanics techniques based on finite element analysis. Both in-plane and axial piezoresistive responses are being considered in an electromechanically coupled code. The computational results are used to estimate the magnitude of the piezoresistive coefficients of carbon nanotube needed for the piezoresistive response of macroscale nanocomposites to be comparable with experimental data in the literature. It is found that the current values for inherent piezoresistivity of the carbon nanotube are not sufficiently large enough to explain the observed macroscale piezoresistive response if inherent piezoresistive effect of carbon nanotubes is the only driving force for the piezoresistive response of the macroscale nanocomposites, and hence, additional mechanisms such as electron hopping and nanotube–nanotube contact may play important roles either individually or in a coupled fashion with inherent piezoresistivity of the carbon nanotube.
A microvascular method for thermal activation and deactivation of shape memory polymers
Authors: Phillips David M , Baur Jeffery W
Published: January 2013

The integration of material systems to include thermal activation and deactivation of shape memory polymers represents a key challenge for adaptive systems. Microvascular fluid flow with hot or cold fluid is used as an energy transport mechanism to activate and deactivate shape memory polymers, where the maximum temperature is limited by the hot fluid temperature to prevent overheating. A thin panel was constructed from the Veriflex® shape memory polymer and included an array of 10 parallel microvascular tubes. The panel is strained orthogonally to the tube direction in the activated state. An analytical steady-state surface temperature model is applied to predict the surface temperature range during activation. Thermography is used to measure the steady-state surface temperature for heating and the dynamic surface temperature for both heating and cooling. The decay constants and surface temperature range for heating and cooling are examined as a function of applied strain (0%–20%) and fluid flow rate (0–25 g min−1 of water). The decay constants depended strongly on flow rate and weakly on strain. The observed vascular cooling rate was up to six times faster than the comparable natural convection cooling rate for the flow rates tested. This faster cooling rate can significantly reduce temperature cycle times.
Influence of Skin-to-Skin Contact and Rooming-In on Early Mother–Infant Interaction
Authors: Dumas Louise , Lepage Mario , Bystrova Ksenia , Matthiesen Ann-Sofi , Welles-Nyström Barbara , Widström Ann-Marie
Published: January 2013

The objective of this research was to study influence of birth routines on mother–infant interaction at Day 4. The present research is part of a longitudinal study where mother–infant pairs were randomized by infant location and apparel. We intended to assess mother–infant interaction from videos filmed at Day 4. A protocol for the assessment/coding of the affective quality of maternal behaviors indicative of early mother–infant interaction was developed and interculturally validated. Results were compared with birth randomization, as to explain impact of birth practices. Findings indicate that separation and swaddling at birth interfered with mother–infant interaction during a breastfeeding session at Day 4; these mothers significantly demonstrated more roughness in their behaviors with their infants at Day 4. Results also show evidences of a sensitive period for separation after birth. Implications are to encourage immediate and uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact at birth, and rooming-in during postpartum, as recommended in World Health Organization/UNICEF Ten Steps for Successful Breastfeeding.
Working With Subgroup Identities to Build Organizational Identification and Support for Organizational Strategy
Authors: Peters Kim , Haslam S. Alexander , Ryan Michelle K. , Fonseca Miguel
Published: January 2013

A growing body of evidence indicates that organizational identification underpins a range of important organizational outcomes. However, to date, the literature has provided little empirically grounded guidance for organizations that are trying to develop organizational identification among their employees. In this article, the authors aim to address this lacuna by testing the effectiveness of the ASPIRe ( Actualizing Social and Personal Identity Resources) model—a model that specifies a sequence of structured activities designed to use subgroup identities as a platform for building organizational identification—in a bespoke workshop delivered to senior military health services personnel. As predicted by the ASPIRe model, participants reported increased levels of subgroup and organizational identification as a result of the workshop and were also more supportive of the organization’s strategy.
Development of a closed drug preparation method for oral anticancer drugs
Authors: Wakui Nobuyuki , Ookubo Tetuo , Iwasaki Yusuke , Ito Rie , Saito Koichi , Nakazawa Hiroyuki
Published: January 2013

The objective of this article is to reduce the preparation time for oral anticancer drugs, reduce the exposure to drug preparations, and develop drug preparation equipment without external drug leaks in a closed state. In the newly developed closed oral drug preparation device, a 10 mL disposable syringe that was replaced with one projection for crushing tablets and a no-processing 30 mL disposable syringe were connected to a three-way stopcock. Using this instrument, Endoxan® tablets (principal components: cyclophosphamide) were crushed and suspended in water in a closed state. The drug was prepared to suspension and flowed out via a feeding tube by switching the handle of the three-way stopcock. To assess human exposure to cyclophosphamide, a high-performance volatile organic compound-solvent desorption passive sampler was attached to the preparer’s mouth to collect air drifting in the vicinity, and cyclophosphamide levels were subsequently measured by liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry. Using the developed drug preparation equipment, Endoxan® tablets were suspended in a closed state. According to liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry analysis, the exposure of the preparer to cyclophosphamide was greatly reduced when using the developed device; cyclophosphamide was detected in only two of the five samples, though only at trace levels. The closed oral drug preparation device may permit the preparation and administration of toxic drugs to patients while greatly reducing the risk of occupational exposure among health-care workers and caregivers.
Impact of temozolomide on gonadal function in patients with primary malignant brain tumors
Authors: Strowd RE , Blackwood R , Brown M , Harmon M , Lovato J , Yalcinkaya T , Lesser G
Published: January 2013

Background

Cumulative exposure to alkylating agents may produce impaired reproductive function. Temozolomide is an alkylating agent approved for treating malignant gliomas.

Objective

A pilot study was undertaken to investigate the effects of temozolomide on semen integrity in men with newly diagnosed or recurrent malignant gliomas.

Methods

Eligible patients had no known fertility problems or impotence. Comprehensive semen analysis and serum sex hormones were obtained at baseline and following 3 and at least 6 months of temozolomide.

Results

Thirteen men were recruited. Mean age was 42 years (28–58). Three had recurrent and 10 newly diagnosed malignant glioma. Four were unable to ejaculate or were azoospermic at baseline. Four provided samples at baseline and after at least 6 months of temozolomide. Five were unable to complete the study. Two of four patients with paired baseline and 6-month samples received 6 months of standard monthly temozolomide. Two patients received standard radiation and concurrent temozolomide followed by adjuvant temozolomide. At 6 months, three of these four patients demonstrated low sperm motility (two low at baseline); three had abnormally low percent normal forms (one abnormal at baseline); two developed abnormally low sperm density. Sex hormone values were normal in all four patients at all time points.

Conclusion

Changes in semen analysis parameters following 6 months of temozolomide were observed. The small sample size precludes any firm conclusions regarding the importance and duration of these findings and their relation to temozolomide exposure. With validation in a larger study, these results may have important implications for counseling prior to initiation of temozolomide therapy in these patients.
Carfilzomib: A new proteasome inhibitor for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Steele Jason M
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical trials, adverse effects, dosage recommendations, and economic considerations of carfilzomib are reviewed.

Multiple myeloma accounts for approximately 10–15% of all hematologic malignancies and 20% of blood‐related cancer deaths. Despite recent advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma, most patients will eventually relapse, requiring further treatment. Carfilzomib is a new proteasome inhibitor that primarily targets the chymotrypsin‐like activity of the 20S proteasome. The safety and efficacy of carfilzomib was demonstrated in the PX‐171‐003‐A1 trial, a prospective phase II trial in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who had received at least 2 prior therapies including a proteasome inhibitor and an immunomodulatory agent. Common adverse effects included fatigue (55.5%), anemia (46.8%), nausea (44.9%), and thrombocytopenia (36.3%). The recommended dose of carfilzomib for the first cycle is 20 mg/m2 on 2 consecutive days each week for 3 weeks in a 4‐week cycle escalating to 27 mg/m2 for subsequent cycles. It is recommended that patients receive premedication with dexamethasone during cycle 1 and cycle 2 to minimize risk of infusion reactions.

Conclusion

Carfilzomib provides a clinical benefit to patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have been previously treated with a proteasome inhibitor and an immunomodulatory agent.
Universal relations for a new class of elastic bodies
Authors: Rajagopal KR , Wineman Alan S
Published: January 2013

Universal relations hold in all members that belong to a certain class of bodies, and they are therefore useful in designing experiments in which all members belonging to the particular class of bodies can be tested. It has been shown recently that the class of elastic bodies is much larger than the classical Cauchy elastic bodies. It has also been shown that such elastic bodies have firm thermodynamic underpinnings. In this short paper, we discuss universal relations that hold for a large sub-class of bodies which belong to this new class of elastic bodies. To be more precise, we consider a class of compressible isotropic elastic solids that are a sub-class of the new class of elastic bodies. We show that practically all the universal solutions which are possible in classical Cauchy elastic bodies are also possible within the context of the sub-class of elastic bodies that we consider.
Impact of storage under ambient conditions on the vitamin content of dehydrated vegetables
Authors: Peñas Elena , Sidro Beatiz , Ullate Mónica , Vidal-Valverde Concepción , Frias Juana
Published: January 2013

The consumption of dehydrated vegetables, which provides an important source of vitamins, is increasing worldwide. Dehydrated vegetables are located on non-refrigerated shelves in food shops and, therefore, it is of utmost importance to understand the modifications that take place in the content of these labile micronutrients at the ambient conditions currently found in food shops. The present study discusses the effect of storage for 3, 6, 9 and 12 months on the content of thiamin and vitamin C in different commercial and pilot plant dehydrated garlic, onions, potatoes and carrots in darkness at room temperature under vacuum conditions. The content of β-carotene under these conditions was also studied in dehydrated carrots. Thiamin remained stable over the first 3 months of storage (∼90% retention), while long-term storage led to larger losses (retention of 85% in garlic and 45% in commercial carrots after 12 months of storage). The content of vitamin C drastically decreased during the storage period and even disappeared in some dried onions and carrots following 12 months of storage. Storage for 6 months at ambient conditions preserved 80–90% of the β-carotene content in dehydrated vegetables, while long-term storage led to significant β-carotene degradation (retentions between 43 and 81%). These results suggest that vitamins are gradually lost during storage at the practical conditions in food shops and will thus provide relevant information concerning dried vegetables, so manufacturers may calculate shelf life under established storage conditions.
Influence of the industrial processing and the floral origin into the volatile constituents of honeybee-collected pollen
Authors: Domínguez-Valhondo D , González-Gómez D , Hernández-Méndez T , Bohoyo-Gil D
Published: January 2013

Honeybee-collected pollen constitutes a potential source of energy and proteins for human consumption. The aim of this study was to determinate if the volatile fraction of pollen is affected by the application of industrial treatment processes and by the floral origin. Two process (thermal and freeze-drying) were compared with the fresh product. The volatile composition was investigated by a suitable analytical procedure based on dynamic headspace followed by thermal desorption gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Using this methodology more than 60 volatile compounds were separated in a phenyl-methyl-siloxane 50 m chromatographic column and identified according to their mass spectra, Kovats retention indices and comparison with those of authenticated reference standards. The differences among the studied honeybee pollens, in terms on volatile profile, were studied by means of the analysis of variance and principal component analysis. The volatile profile of fresh pollen is influenced by the floral origin and altered when it is processed, either by thermal and freeze-drying process, but when thermal process was used, compounds as dimethyl sulphyde and furfural, which affect negatively the functional quality, are found. As conclusion, the freeze-drying system could be a good alternative to the traditional thermal drying process.
Holy bonsai wolves: Chihuahuas and the Paris Hilton syndrome
Authors: Redmalm David
Published: January 2013

This article examines the reasons for the Chihuahua breed’s popularity in contemporary western society by looking at two sets of data: Chihuahua handbooks and The Simple Life show, starring Paris Hilton and her Chihuahua Tinkerbell. The article argues that the Chihuahua is a holy anomaly: a creature which can be used in myths and rituals to temporarily alleviate the tension-filled binary oppositions and stereotypes inherent in a particular culture, in order to celebrate and reinforce that culture’s categories and social order. The Chihuahua – or the bonsai wolf – transcends two binary oppositions fundamental to contemporary westerners: subject/object and nature/culture. Although the Chihuahua challenges a number of related binary oppositions, it is generally dismissed as a matter for humor, low-brow entertainment or expressions of sentimentality, rendering ritual encounters with Chihuahuas harmless. The article concludes by asking: what would happen if humans actually started listening to what the Chihuahua is telling them?
Anthropology and social theory
Authors: Thomassen Bjørn
Published: January 2013

This article argues that anthropology may represent untapped perspectives of relevance to social theory. The article starts by critically reviewing how anthropology has come to serve as the ‘Other’ in various branches of social theory, from Marx and Durkheim to Parsons to Habermas, engaged in a hopeless project of positing ‘primitive’ or ‘traditional’ society as the opposite of modernity. In contemporary debates, it is becoming increasingly recognized that social theory needs history, back to the axial age and beyond. The possible role of anthropology in theorizing modernity receives far less attention. That role should go much beyond representing a view from ‘below’ or a politically correct appreciation of cultural diversity. It involves attention to key theoretical concepts and insights developed by maverick anthropologists like Arnold van Gennep, Marcel Mauss, Victor Turner and Gregory Bateson, concepts that uniquely facilitate an understanding of some of the underlying dynamics of modernity.
Picturing commuting: photovoice and seeking well-being in everyday travel
Authors: Guell Cornelia , Ogilvie David
Published: January 2013

We used participant-produced photography to investigate everyday commuting practices in Cambridge, UK. Photovoice served as an observational method for producing ethnographically rich data. A total of 19 participants produced over 500 photos about their journeys to and from work and took part in photo-elicitation interviews. Three themes emerged. First, many images depicted ‘well-being’ in commuting, for example, beautiful landscapes. Second, during elicitation interviews, participants described positive images that they intended but failed to capture in photos. Third, those participants who did not depict well-being described a lack of choice in their commuting, while those who acknowledged well-being seemed to do so in order to make practices of commuting meaningful and habitable. While our interpretations of photos of well-being could be subject to a methodological fallacy relating to a preference for positive over negative images in lay photography, we nonetheless suggest that the rich visual and oral narratives indicate a ‘real’ experience, albeit elicited through the photovoice.
Spontaneous Rupture of the Adrenal Artery Successfully Treated Using the Endovascular Approach
Authors: Patel Abhilasha , Downing Richard , Vijay Santhosh
Published: January 2013

Adrenal artery rupture is a rare cause of retroperitoneal hemorrhage. We describe 2 cases of spontaneous rupture of the adrenal artery successfully treated using endovascular coil embolization. Case Report: Two patients presented with sudden onset abdominal pain and hemodynamic compromise. In both the cases computed tomography (CT) showed a large retroperitoneal hemorrhage. Aortography confirmed bleeding from the right inferior adrenal artery in the first patient and the left inferior adrenal artery in the second patient. Both patients were treated with endovascular coil embolization. Subsequent CT scans demonstrated a reduction in the size of the retroperitoneal hematoma with no active bleeding. Conclusion: Endovascular treatment of a ruptured adrenal artery is effective, safe, and permits organ preservation.
Eccentric Versus Concentric Resistance Training to Enhance Neuromuscular Activation and Walking Speed Following Stroke
Authors: Clark David J. , Patten Carolynn
Published: January 2013

Background. Impaired voluntary neuromuscular activation of agonist muscles is a primary determinant of weakness and motor dysfunction following stroke. Objective. To determine whether eccentric resistance training (ECC) resistance training is superior to concentric resistance training (CON) resistance training to enhance neuromuscular activation, strength, and walking speed after stroke. Methods. A total of 34 adults poststroke participated in a staged intervention comprising (1) either CON-only or ECC-only resistance training of the paretic leg followed by (2) gait training. Changes in voluntary neuromuscular activation and power were assessed for both the trained paretic and untrained nonparetic legs. Self-selected and fast walking speeds were also assessed. Results. In response to resistance training, the ECC group experienced larger improvements in neuromuscular activation of paretic leg muscles, rectus femoris and vastus medialis ( P < .005), and the largest gains in paretic leg power (+74% for ECC contractions, P < .0001). ECC also had greater cross-education of increased power to the untrained nonparetic leg (12%-14%, P = .006). Over the course of gait training, much of the gain in paretic leg activation in the ECC group was lost, such that the net change in agonist activation was comparable between the CON and ECC groups when the full intervention was completed. Nevertheless, improvement in walking speed postintervention was more prevalent in the ECC than CON group. Conclusion. ECC resistance training was more effective for improving bilateral neuromuscular activation, strength, and walking speed following stroke. Future research should assess whether a longer duration ECC training program can provide further benefit.
A literature-based intervention for older people living with dementia
Authors: Billington Josie , Carroll Janine , Davis Philip , Healey Christine , Kinderman Peter
Published: January 2013

Background:

While several studies have explored the impact of literature and reading on mental health, there has been relatively little work done on how a literature-based intervention might impact on the behaviours of those living with dementia. The present report addresses the effect that a specific literature-based intervention – Get into Reading, designed and practised by national charity The Reader Organisation – might have on the health and well-being of people living with dementia.

Aims:

This present study arises out of a service evaluation that specifically assessed to what extent the shared-reading intervention impacted upon behaviours symptomatic of dementia. Its aims were: (1) to understand the influence that reading has on older adults with dementia in different health-care environments; (2) to identify staff perceptions of the influence that engagement in a reading group has on older adults living with dementia; and (3) to investigate any changes in dementia symptoms of older adults participating in a reading group.

Methods:

The study employed a mixed-method design conducted within three health-care environments: three care homes, two hospital wards and one day centre. The Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) assessed staff views of any changes in dementia symptom severity for participants in reading groups conducted in the care homes. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were then conducted with staff who attended the reading groups and/or had extensive knowledge of service users involved in all of the health-care settings. Responses to questions were recorded verbatim and then subject to thematic analysis.

Results:

61 service users and 20 staff members took part in the overall project. The NPI-Q results indicate that symptom scores were lower during the reading group period than at baseline. These findings were supported by the qualitative interviews, which suggested that three themes were perceived to be important to effective engagement with the reading groups: (1) the components of the reading group intervention; (2) enjoyment, authenticity, meaningfulness and renewed sense of personal identity; and (3) enhancement of listening, memory and attention.

Conclusions:

In light of quantifiable data of limited but indicative status, together with strongly corroborative qualitative evidence, engagement in reading-group activity appeared to produce a significant reduction in dementia symptom severity. Staff interviews indicated the contribution of reading groups to well-being.
Gastric cancer and trastuzumab: first biologic therapy in gastric cancer
Authors: Gunturu Krishna S. , Woo Yanghee , Beaubier Nike , Remotti Helen E. , Saif M. Wasif
Published: January 2013

Gastric cancer remains difficult to cure and has a poor overall prognosis. Chemotherapy and multimodality therapy has shown some benefit in the treatment of gastric cancer. Current therapies for gastric cancer have their limitations; thus, we are in need of newer treatment options including targeted therapies. Here, we review the biologic therapy with trastuzumab in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)+ gastric cancer.
Osteochondrosis of the Medial Cuneiform Bone in a Child
Authors: Atbasi Zafer , Ege Tolga , Kose Ozkan , Egerci Omer Faruk , Demiralp Bahtiyar
Published: January 2013

Although, osteochondrosis of tarsal and metatarsal bones are frequent in children, involvement of the cuneiform bone is rare. Because of its rarity, the relevant literature is composed of small case series and case reports. Here, we report the case of a 6-year-old boy with bilateral osteochondrosis of the medial cuneiform bone. Activity modification and analgesia were sufficient for the relief of symptoms during follow-up. We discuss the demographic and clinical characteristics, radiographic findings, and treatment of this rare entity with a review of literature.

Level of evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV, Case study
Extensile Decompression of the Proximal and Distal Tarsal Tunnel Combined With Partial Plantar Fascia Release in the Treatment of Chronic Plantar Heel Pain
Authors: Mook William R. , Gay Tenaja , Parekh Selene G.
Published: January 2013

Background. Chronic heel pain that is recalcitrant to nonoperative measures is a rare but disabling condition. There are no reports in the literature of extensile proximal and distal tarsal tunnel release combined with partial plantar fasciotomy in the treatment of chronic heel pain. We present our results. Methods. A retrospective chart review was conducted, and charts were assessed for details of their presenting complaints, physical exam, diagnostic studies, medical history, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for pain, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores, and complications. Results. The mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 86 ± 12.9 (range = 69-100). Of 15 heels, 10 (67%) had an excellent or good rating at the time of the last follow-up visit. One of 15 (7%) reported a poor outcome. The mean VAS pain score changed from 6.3 ± 3.1 to 1.4 ± 1.8 (P = .001). There were no wound complications or infections. Conclusion. This technique offers another operative option for chronic heel pain that is associated with satisfactory outcomes and rest pain relief. Despite reducing pain at rest in all patients, the majority of patients may be left with mild to moderate residual symptoms with activity that is similar to the outcomes of previously reported procedures.

Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV, Retrospective case series
Cuffed Endotracheal Tubes in Infants and Children
Authors: Tobias Joseph D. , Gopalakrishnan Senthil , Rice Julie , Jatana Kris R. , Elmaraghy Charles , Merz Meredith
Published: January 2013

Background. Over the past 5 to 10 years, there has been a change in the clinical practice of pediatric anesthesiology with a transition to the use of cuffed instead of uncuffed endotracheal tubes (ETTs) in infants and children. When such tubes are used in clinical practice, it is imperative to ensure that the intracuff pressure is ≤30 cm H2O. To date, there are limited data regarding techniques to ensure this practice. Methods. Following endotracheal intubation with a cuffed ETT, a stethoscope was placed in the sternal notch and continuous positive airway pressure of 20 to 25 cm H2O held. The fresh gas flow was increased as needed to achieve a gradual rise of the airway pressure. Using a syringe, air was added to the cuff until no air escape or leak was heard. The intracuff pressure was checked using a handheld manometer (Posey Cufflator Endotracheal Tube Inflator and Manometer, JT Posey Company, Arcadia, CA). Results. The cohort for the study included 200 patients ranging in age from 6 months to 18 years. In 5 patients (2.5%), there was no audible air leak noted following endotracheal inflation at a continuous positive airway pressure of 20 to 25 cm H2O. In these patients, the ETT was removed and the trachea was intubated with a 0.5-mm size smaller ETT. In the entire cohort of 200 patients, the intracuff pressure was 21 ± 4 cm H2O. The intracuff pressure was ≥30 cm H2O in 1 of 200 patients (0.5%). Conclusions. The current study demonstrates a simple, bedside maneuver that requires no additional equipment and is effective at ensuring a safe intracuff pressure in virtually all patients.
The high-affinity human IgG receptor FcγRI (CD64) promotes IgG-mediated inflammation, anaphylaxis, and antitumor immunotherapy
Authors: Mancardi David A. , Albanesi Marcello , Jönsson Friederike , Iannascoli Bruno , Van Rooijen Nico , Kang Xiaoqiang , England Patrick , Daëron Marc , Bruhns Pierre
Published: January 2013

Key Points

Human FcγRI can trigger antibody-induced inflammatory arthritis, thrombocytopenia, airway inflammation, and systemic anaphylaxis. Human FcγRI can trigger antibody-mediated immunotherapy of mouse metastatic melanoma.
Rituximab and dexamethasone vs dexamethasone monotherapy in newly diagnosed patients with primary immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Gudbrandsdottir Sif , Birgens Henrik Sverre , Frederiksen Henrik , Jensen Bjarne Anker , Jensen Morten Krogh , Kjeldsen Lars , Klausen Tobias Wirenfeldt , Larsen Herdis , Mourits-Andersen Hans Torben , Nielsen Claus Henrik , Nielsen Ove Juul , Plesner Torben , Pulczynski Stanislaw , Rasmussen Inge Helleberg , Rønnov-Jessen Dorthe , Hasselbalch Hans Carl
Published: January 2013

Key Points

In newly diagnosed ITP, addition of rituximab to dexamethasone yields higher sustained response rates than dexamethasone alone.
Silencing of STIM1 attenuates hypoxia-induced PASMCs proliferation via inhibition of the SOC/Ca2+/NFAT pathway
Authors: Hou Xianhua , Chen Jian , Luo Yongjun , Liu Fuyu , Xu Gang , Gao Yuqi
Published: January 2013

Background

Stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) is a newly discovered Ca2+ sensor on the endoplasmic reticulum which is an indispensable part in the activation of store-operated Ca2+ channels (SOC). Recent studies demonstrate that SOC of pulmonary smooth muscle cells (PASMCs) were upregulated by chronic hypoxia which contribute to the enhanced pulmonary vasoconstriction and vascular remodeling. However, the exact role of STIM1 in the development of chronic hypoxic pulmonary hypertension(HPH) remains unclear.

Methods

In this study we investigated the cellular distribution and expression of STIM1 by immunofluorescence, qRTPCR and Western blotting methods in Wistar rat distal intrapulmonary arteries under normal and chronic hypobaric hypoxic conditions. In vitro, Wistar rat PASMCs were isolated and cultured. PASMCs were transfected with siRNA targeting STIM1 gene by liposome. The expression of STIM1 protein was detected by Western blotting. [3H]-thymidine ([3H]-TdR) incorporation were performed to detect PASMCs proliferation. The cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry. The SOC-mediated Ca2+ influx was calculated by Ca2+ fluorescence imaging and the nuclear translocation of NFATc3 was determined by immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis of nuclear extracts.

Results

We found that during the development of HPH and the initiation of vascular remodeling, the mRNA and protein expression levels of STIM1 significantly increased in the distal intrapulmonary arteries. Moderate hypoxia significantly promotes PASMCs proliferation and cell cycle progression. Silencing of STIM1 significantly decreased cellular proliferation and delayed the cell cycle progression induced by hypoxia. Silencing of STIM1 also significantly decreased SOC-mediated Ca2+ influx and inhibited the nuclear translocation of NFATc3 in hypoxic PASMCs.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that chronic hypobaric hypoxia upregulates the expression of STIM1 in the distal intrapulmonary arteries which plays an important role in the hypoxia-induced PASMCs proliferation via SOC/Ca2+/NFAT pathway and may represent a novel therapeutic target for the prevention of hypoxia pulmonary hypertension.
Identifying targets of the Sox domain protein Dichaete in the Drosophila CNS via targeted expression of dominant negative proteins
Authors: Shen Shih Pei , Aleksic Jelena , Russell Steven
Published: January 2013

Background

Group B Sox domain transcription factors play important roles in metazoan central nervous system development. They are, however, difficult to study as mutations often have pleiotropic effects and other Sox family members can mask phenotypes due to functional compensation. In Drosophila melanogaster, the Sox gene Dichaete is dynamically expressed in the embryonic CNS, where it is known to have functional roles in neuroblasts and the ventral midline. In this study, we use inducible dominant negative proteins in combination with ChIP, immunohistochemistry and genome-wide expression profiling to further dissect the role of Dichaete in these two tissues.

Results

We generated two dominant negative Dichaete constructs, one lacking a DNA binding domain and the other fused to the Engrailed transcriptional repressor domain. We expressed these tissue-specifically in the midline and in neuroblasts using the UAS/GAL4 system, validating their use at the phenotypic level and with known target genes. Using ChIP and immunohistochemistry, we identified two new likely direct Dichaete target genes, commisureless in the midline and asense in the neuroectoderm. We performed genome-wide expression profiling in stage 8–9 embryos, identifying almost a thousand potential tissue-specific Dichaete targets, with half of these genes showing evidence of Dichaete binding in vivo. These include a number of genes with known roles in CNS development, including several components of the Notch, Wnt and EGFR signalling pathways.

Conclusions

As well as identifying commisureless as a target, our data indicate that Dichaete helps establish its expression during early midline development but has less effect on its established later expression, highlighting Dichaete action on tissue specific enhancers. An analysis of the broader range of candidate Dichaete targets indicates that Dichaete plays diverse roles in CNS development, with the 500 or so Dichaete-bound putative targets including a number of transcription factors, signalling pathway components and terminal differentiation genes. In the early neurectoderm we implicate Dichaete in the lateral inhibition pathway and show that Dichaete acts to repress the proneural gene asense. Our analysis also reveals that dominant negatives cause off-target effects, highlighting the need to use other experimental data for validating findings from dominant negative studies.
Inhibition of COX-2 expression by topical diclofenac enhanced radiation sensitivity via enhancement of TRAIL in human prostate adenocarcinoma xenograft model
Authors: Inoue Takeshi , Anai Satoshi , Onishi Sayuri , Miyake Makito , Tanaka Nobumichi , Hirayama Akihide , Fujimoto Kiyohide , Hirao Yoshihiko
Published: January 2013

Background

COX-2 inhibitors have an antitumor potential and have been verified by many researchers. Treatment of cancer cells with external stressors such as irradiation can stimulate the over-expression of COX-2 and possibly confer radiation resistance. In this study, we tested if topical diclofenac, which inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2, administration rendered prostate tumor cells sensitize to the effects of radiation.

Methods

LNCaP-COX-2 and LNCaP-Neo cells were treated with 0 to 1000 μM diclofenac. Next, a clonogenic assay was performed in which cells were subjected to irradiation (0 to 4 Gy) with or without diclofenac. COX-2 expression and other relevant molecules were measured by real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry after irradiation and diclofenac treatment. In addition, we assessed the tumor volumes of xenograft LNCaP-COX-2 cells treated with topical diclofenac with or without radiation therapy (RT).

Results

LNCaP-COX-2 and LNCaP-Neo cell lines experienced cytotoxic effects of diclofenac in a dose related manner. Clonogenic assays demonstrated that LNCaP-COX-2 cells were significantly more resistant to RT than LNCaP-Neo cells. Furthermore, the addition of diclofenac sensitized LNCaP-COX-2 not but LNCaP-Neo cells to the cytocidal effects of radiation. In LNCaP-COX-2 cells, diclofenac enhanced radiation-induced apoptosis compared with RT alone. This phenomenon might be attributed to enhancement of RT-induced TRAIL expression as demonstrated by real-time PCR analysis. Lastly, tumor volumes of LNCaP-COX-2 cells xenograft treated with diclofenac or RT alone was >4-fold higher than in mice treated with combined diclofenac and radiation (p<0.05).

Conclusions

These in vitro and in vivo findings suggest that conventional COX inhibitor, diclofenac enhances the effect of RT on prostate cancer cells that express COX-2. Thus, diclofenac may have potential as radiosensitizer for treatment of prostate cancer.
Study on nanometric cutting of germanium by molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Lai Min , Zhang Xiaodong , Fang Fengzhou , Wang Yufang , Feng Min , Tian Wanhui
Published: January 2013

Three-dimensional molecular dynamics simulations are conducted to study the nanometric cutting of germanium. The phenomena of extrusion, ploughing, and stagnation region are observed from the material flow. The uncut thickness which is defined as the depth from bottom of the tool to the stagnation region is in proportion to the undeformed chip thickness on the scale of our simulation and is almost independent of the machined crystal plane. The cutting resistance on (111) face is greater than that on (010) face due to anisotropy of germanium. During nanometric cutting, both phase transformation from diamond cubic structure to β-Sn phase and direct amorphization of germanium occur. The machined surface presents amorphous structure.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-amyloidogenic
effects of a small molecule, 2,4-bis(p-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butenal in Tg2576 Alzheimer’s
disease mice model
Authors: Jin Peng , Kim Jin-A , Choi Dong-Young , Lee Young-Jung , Jung Heon Sang , Hong Jin Tae
Published: January 2013

Background

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is pathologically characterized by excessive
accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ) fibrils within the brain and activation of
astrocytes and microglial cells. In this study, we examined anti-inflammatory
and anti-amyloidogenic effects of 2,4-bis(p-hydroxyphenyl)-2-butenal (HPB242),
an anti-inflammatory compound produced by the tyrosine-fructose Maillard
reaction.

Methods

12-month-old Tg2576 mice were treated with HPB242 (5 mg/kg) for 1 month and
then cognitive function was assessed by the Morris water maze test and passive
avoidance test. In addition, western blot analysis, Gel electromobility shift
assay, immunostaining, immunofluorescence staining, ELISA and enzyme activity
assays were used to examine the degree of Aβ deposition in the brains of Tg2576
mice. The Morris water maze task was analyzed using two-way ANOVA with repeated
measures. Otherwise were analyzed by one-way ANOVA followed by Dunnett’s post
hoc test.

Results

Treatment of HPB242 (5 mg/kg for 1 month) significantly attenuated cognitive
impairments in Tg2576 transgenic mice. HPB242 also prevented amyloidogenesis in
Tg2576 transgenic mice brains. This can be evidenced by Aβ accumulation, BACE1,
APP and C99 expression and β-secretase activity. In addition, HPB242 suppresses
the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2
(COX-2) as well as activation of astrocytes and microglial cells. Furthermore,
activation of nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and signal transducer and activator
of transcription 1/3 (STAT1/3) in the brain was potently inhibited by
HPB242.

Conclusions

Thus, these results suggest that HPB242 might be useful to intervene in
development or progression of neurodegeneration in AD through its
anti-inflammatory and anti-amyloidogenic effects.
Notch1 is required for hypoxia-induced proliferation, invasion and chemoresistance of T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia cells
Authors: Zou Jie , Li Peng , Lu Fei , Liu Na , Dai Jianjian , Ye Jingjing , Qu Xun , Sun Xiulian , Ma Daoxin , Park Jino , Ji Chunyan
Published: January 2013

Background

Notch1 is a potent regulator known to play an oncogenic role in many malignancies including T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL). Tumor hypoxia and increased hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) activity can act as major stimuli for tumor aggressiveness and progression. Although hypoxia-mediated activation of the Notch1 pathway plays an important role in tumor cell survival and invasiveness, the interaction between HIF-1α and Notch1 has not yet been identified in T-ALL. This study was designed to investigate whether hypoxia activates Notch1 signalling through HIF-1α stabilization and to determine the contribution of hypoxia and HIF-1α to proliferation, invasion and chemoresistance in T-ALL.

Methods

T-ALL cell lines (Jurkat, Sup-T1) transfected with HIF-1α or Notch1 small interference RNA (siRNA) were incubated in normoxic or hypoxic conditions. Their potential for proliferation and invasion was measured by WST-8 and transwell assays. Flow cytometry was used to detect apoptosis and assess cell cycle regulation. Expression and regulation of components of the HIF-1α and Notch1 pathways and of genes related to proliferation, invasion and apoptosis were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR or Western blot.

Results

Hypoxia potentiated Notch1 signalling via stabilization and activation of the transcription factor HIF-1α. Hypoxia/HIF-1α-activated Notch1 signalling altered expression of cell cycle regulatory proteins and accelerated cell proliferation. Hypoxia-induced Notch1 activation increased the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2) and MMP9, which increased invasiveness. Of greater clinical significance, knockdown of Notch1 prevented the protective effect of hypoxia/HIF-1α against dexamethasone-induced apoptosis. This sensitization correlated with losing the effect of hypoxia/HIF-1α on Bcl-2 and Bcl-xL expression.

Conclusions

Notch1 signalling is required for hypoxia/HIF-1α-induced proliferation, invasion and chemoresistance in T-ALL. Pharmacological inhibitors of HIF-1α or Notch1 signalling may be attractive interventions for T-ALL treatment.
Crosstalk between SET7/9-dependent methylation and ARTD1-mediated ADP-ribosylation of histone H1.4
Authors: Kassner Ingrid , Barandun Marc , Fey Monika , Rosenthal Florian , Hottiger Michael O
Published: January 2013

Background

Different histone post-translational modifications (PTMs) fine-tune and integrate different cellular signaling pathways at the chromatin level. ADP-ribose modification of histones by cellular ADP-ribosyltransferases such as ARTD1 (PARP1) is one of the many elements of the histone code. All 5 histone proteins were described to be ADP-ribosylated in vitro and in vivo. However, the crosstalk between ADP-ribosylation and other modifications is little understood.

Results

In experiments with isolated histones, it was found that ADP-ribosylation of H3 by ARTD1 prevents H3 methylation by SET7/9. However, poly(ADP-ribosyl)ation (PARylation) of histone H3 surprisingly allowed subsequent methylation of H1 by SET7/9. Histone H1 was thus identified as a new target for SET7/9. The SET7/9 methylation sites in H1.4 were pinpointed to the last lysine residues of the six KAK motifs in the C-terminal domain (K121, K129, K159, K171, K177 and K192). Interestingly, H1 and the known SET7/9 target protein H3 competed with each other for SET7/9-dependent methylation.

Conclusions

The results presented here identify H1.4 as a novel SET7/9 target protein, and document an intricate crosstalk between H3 and H1 methylation and PARylation, thus implying substrate competition as a regulatory mechanism. Thereby, these results underline the role of ADP-ribosylation as an element of the histone code.