bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Social and Traditional Media in the Client Project
Authors: Melton James , Hicks Nancy
Published: October 2011

Based on a client project assigned to students in two undergraduate business classes, this article argues that social media learning is best done in a context that mixes social media with more traditional kinds of media. Ideally, this approach will involve teams of students who are working on different aspects of a larger client project. This integrated setup has several benefits: It enhances the students’ understanding of social media within a real context, it complements more traditional communication methods, and it reveals the communicative aspects of key business functions.
Social Media
Authors: Kelm Orlando R.
Published: October 2011

In assessing the application of social media on the teaching of business communication, this article looks at MBA student use of blogs, online photo database contributions, and video contributions to YouTube channels. These assignments were part of their course activities, which included a 2-week study tour in China. The article looks at these activities within the context of the social constructivist view on learning in general. The student work provides evidence of the positive results that come from the use of social media, when viewed from the perspective of social constructivist theories for learning.
A Comparison of the Reactivating and Therapeutic Efficacy of Chosen Combinations of Oximes With Individual Oximes Against VX in Rats and Mice
Authors: Kassa Jiri , Karasova Jana Zdarova , Sepsova Vendula , Caisberger Filip , Bajgar Jiri
Published: October 2011

The ability of 2 combinations of oximes (HI-6 + trimedoxime and HI-6 + K203) to reactivate VX-inhibited acetylcholinesterase and reduce acute toxicity of VX was compared with the reactivating and therapeutic efficacy of antidotal treatment involving a single oxime (HI-6, trimedoxime, K203) in rats and mice. Our results showed that the reactivating efficacy of both combinations of oximes studied in rats is significantly higher than the reactivating efficacy of all individual oximes in diaphragm and roughly corresponds to the most effective individual oxime in blood and brain. Both combinations of oximes were found to be more effective in the reduction of acute lethal toxicity of VX in mice than the antidotal treatment involving the most efficacious individual oxime although the difference is not significant. Based on the obtained data, we can conclude that the antidotal treatment involving the chosen combinations of oximes brings benefit for the reactivation of VX-inhibited acetylcholinesterase in rats and for the antidotal treatment of VX-induced acute poisoning in mice.
Considerations Regarding Nonhuman Primate Use in Safety Assessment of Biopharmaceuticals
Authors: Buckley Lorrene A. , Chapman Kathryn , Burns-Naas Leigh Ann , Todd Marque D. , Martin Pauline L. , Lansita Janice A.
Published: October 2011

Selection of a pharmacologically responsive species can represent a major challenge in designing nonclinical safety assessment programs for many biopharmaceuticals (eg, monoclonal antibodies (mAbs)). Frequently, the only relevant species for nonclinical testing of mAbs is the non-human primate (NHP). This situation, coupled with a rapidly increasing number of mAb drugs in development, has resulted in a significant increase in the number of NHPs used in nonclinical safety assessment. Apart from ethical considerations related to responsible animal use, there is a clear need for more efficient and innovative approaches to drug discovery and development; these factors drive the need to investigate alternative approaches and strategies for the safety assessment. This review summarizes important scientific and regulatory perspectives derived from presentations and audience discussions in an educational forum at the 2010 annual American College of Toxicology meeting regarding opportunities for employing alternative approaches to minimize NHP use in mAb drug development.
Mitigating Particulates Emitted by Mosquito Coils Using Unipolar Ionisers: Implications to Deposition in Human Respiratory Tract System
Authors: Sapra B. K. , Kothalkar P. S. , Joshi M. , Khan A. , Mayya Y. S.
Published: October 2011

Negative ion generators (NIGs) have been efficiently used for the reduction of airborne particulates in indoor environments. The mechanisms of particle removal include particle charging by emitted ions and electro-migration from air to wall surfaces. This study explores the dependence of size on particle removal from air in the presence of an ioniser. The test aerosols used were the combustion particulates generated using mosquito repellent coils that are very often used in urban homes in the Asian and African regions. In addition to the main component allethrin, organic fillers are added to these coils to aid smouldering. This could lead to a heavy airborne particulate loading over a very wide size range, all of which may not be beneficial. Room experiments showed that the particle concentration was reduced by a factor of about 15 for sizes of 40 nm and decreased to about 1.5 for 0.3 µm, thus leading to an increase in the median diameters in the presence of the ioniser. Implications to the deposition of these particles in the human respiratory tract system are discussed and there is a significant reduction in the deposition when the ioniser is operated.
Radon Exhalation Rate from Building Materials Using CR-39 Nuclear Track Detector
Authors: Topçu N. , Biçak D. , Çam S. , Ereeş F. S.
Published: October 2011

Humans are exposed to radiological hazards from natural radiation sources that exist mainly in the earth’s crust. Radon is a noble gas and is formed by the decay of 226Ra, which is one of the nuclides formed in the disintegration series from 238U. Building materials are considered as one of the major sources of radon in the indoor environment. Radon is one of the indoor sources that cause radiological health risk.

To study radon exhalation rate, samples of sand, gravel, stone, cement, granite, marble, ashlar, ceramic tile and bricks were collected from Manisa and Izmir provinces of Turkey. The radon exhalation rates (in terms of mass and surface area) for these materials were also calculated by using solid-state nuclear track detector (CR-39). The mass and surface exhalation rates are calculated by following the radon activity growth as a function of time. These values were also compared with literature values.
Intimidation in small learning groups: The roles of social-comparison concern, comfort, and individual characteristics in student academic outcomes
Authors: Micari Marina , Drane Denise
Published: October 2011

This study examines the relationship of social-comparison concern, comfort, and self-efficacy to course performance and program persistence in a small-group learning environment. As part of the study, 205 undergraduates in a peer-led, small-group science learning program were surveyed at the beginning and end of the academic term; surveys addressed self-efficacy for the course, comfort participating in the small groups, and concern about comparison with others in the groups. Results indicated that while social-comparison concern and comfort were unrelated to prior academic preparation (as measured by grade point average and SAT mathematics score), they were related to self-efficacy, ethnic minority status, and gender, as well as to persistence in the program and final grade.
The impact of engagement with extracurricular activities on the student experience and graduate outcomes for widening participation populations
Authors: Stuart Mary , Lido Catherine , Morgan Jessica , Solomon Lucy , May Steve
Published: October 2011

This research examined extracurricular activity (ECA) effects on students’ experiences, outcomes and future job prospects. A survey of diverse undergraduate students, along with alumni and potential employer interviews, revealed differences in students’ engagement with ECAs beyond the classroom. Variations between ‘traditional’ and ‘widening participation’ student groups emerged, with older and ethnic minority students spending more time with non-university ECAs, engaged in family, religious and solitary activities. Lower socio-economic status (SES) students spent more time working, and less time engaging in ECAs. Alumni reflected ECAs as key to developing self-identity, social networks and career prospects/pathways. Employers stressed the value of ECAs for ‘distinguishing’ candidates, providing evidence of cultural fit, leadership, commitment, and ‘selling’ original activities. As (university-linked) ECAs were key for undergraduate outcomes and graduate employment prospects, emerging ethnic, age and SES patterns of engagement have implications for persistent inequalities in employment (despite widening participation agendas).
Integrating lecture capture as a teaching strategy to improve student presentation skills through self-assessment
Authors: Smith Charlene M. , Sodano Todd M.
Published: October 2011

As digital natives from the ‘wired’ Net Generation permeate today’s classrooms, and educators adapt to students’ digital expectations, exploring the pedagogical use of educational technology is essential for today’s faculty. Student competency in oral communication and presentation skills transcends disciplines in higher education, as does the need for students to self-assess their performance for self-regulated learning. This study compared the self-perceptions of undergraduate communication/journalism and nursing students who used lecture capture technology for critiquing and analyzing their presentation skills with self-perceptions of students who did not use lecture capture technology. Findings revealed students in both groups lacked self-confidence and competence in presentation skills. Of significance, students using lecture capture technology were more likely to apply what they learned from the self-assessment when developing future presentations. It is suggested that faculty focus on presentation skill delivery, in addition to presentation content, to assist students in developing presentation competencies.
Statistical analysis and design for estimating accuracy in clinical-center classification of cause-specific clinical events in clinical trials
Authors: Yan Guofen , Greene Tom
Published: October 2011

Background When cause-specific clinical events (for instance, hospitalization for cardiac disease) are used as the primary or key secondary outcomes, it is important to assess how accurately these events have been classified and estimate the error-corrected treatment effects to ensure validity. However, it may not be feasible to verify cause classification for every event in large clinical trials.

Purpose We present statistical methods for the design and analysis of outcome-classification accuracy and for estimating error-corrected treatment effects.

Methods Using the Hemodialysis (HEMO) Study, in which primary causes were designated for all 7822 hospitalizations by the 15 participating clinical centers – but only two subsets were audited by the Outcome Committee – we applied existing methods to obtain unbiased estimates of the sensitivity and specificity of clinical-center classifications. The multiple imputation method was used to correct for the misclassification of events. We then examined how trial results were affected by three methods of event classification: unaudited, imputed, and adjudicated.

Results We applied a three-step procedure to extend the results for the two subsets of audited events to estimate the sensitivity and specificity for the complete set. Finite population sample size formulas were developed for designing the quality control sample. Based on the HEMO analysis, the estimate of the intervention effect using the unaudited outcome was biased; the bias was reduced using the outcome corrected by imputation.

Limitations The methods are limited to situations in which there are clinical-center classifications for all clinical events but only partial availability of reference standard classifications, and the verification process does not depend on the true event cause or other unobserved information.

Conclusions Designing a quality control study to estimate the accuracy of outcome classification is important. The multiple imputation method can be used to correct for errors in outcome classification and to estimate the error-corrected treatment effect. Trial results need to be reexamined using the error-corrected outcome.
Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study randomized trial of I-125 brachytherapy
Authors: Hawkins Barbara S
Published: October 2011

Background Although findings from observational studies published in the 1970s and early 1980s suggested that length of remaining life after a diagnosis of uveal melanoma was similar following enucleation (removal of the eye) and local eye-conserving radiotherapy, the majority of ophthalmologists in the United States were not convinced that “saving the eye” would not compromise survival.

Purpose The Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study (COMS) was designed to compare enucleation and radiotherapy among similar patients with respect to survival outcomes.

Methods A multicenter randomized trial of primary treatment with iodine-125 brachytherapy versus enucleation (i.e., a comparative effectiveness trial) was conducted to provide the evidence required to answer the concerns of ophthalmologists and their patients. Eligibility criteria adopted for the trial were intended to apply to the majority of patients diagnosed with choroidal melanoma who would be suitable candidates for either form of primary treatment.

Results Accrual to this COMS trial began in 1986 and ended in 1998. Participating patients were followed for 5 to 15 years, depending upon date of enrollment, before all clinical follow-up ended in 2003. No difference in survival outcomes and little difference in quality-of-life outcomes were observed between patients in the brachytherapy arm and those in the enucleation arm. Five-year survival was substantially better than anticipated based on a review of the literature when the trial was designed.

Limitations The choice of brachytherapy for delivery of radiation to the tumor had important advantages but also imposed restrictions regarding eligibility.

Conclusions The multidisciplinary COMS Group not only successfully conducted a randomized trial that answered the primary study questions but also has contributed to clinical and epidemiologic knowledge of choroidal melanoma through numerous publications. As a consequence of the COMS, a standard approach to I-125 brachytherapy for treatment of choroidal melanoma became widely available to affected patients.
Smoking: effects on multiple sclerosis susceptibility and disease progression
Authors: Wingerchuk Dean M.
Published: October 2011

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with both genetic and environmental factors that influence disease susceptibility. Exposure to cigarette smoke is emerging as a viable environmental risk factor for MS that contributes to both increased disease susceptibility and more rapid disease advancement. The relative risk for MS development is approximately 1.5 for smokers compared with nonsmokers. Furthermore, there may be important interactions between smoking, an individual’s genetic background, and other environmental risk exposures. This review summarizes the current evidence supporting the association of smoking with MS risk and disease course, with additional comments on causation.
Juvenile dermatomyositis: new insights and new treatment strategies
Authors: Martin Neil , Li Charles K. , Wedderburn Lucy R.
Published: October 2011

Juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) is a rare but complex and potentially life-threatening autoimmune disease of childhood, primarily affecting proximal muscles and skin. Although the cause of JDM remains unknown it is clear that genetic and environmental influences play a role in the aetiology. In contrast to adults with dermatomyositis, children with JDM are more likely to have complications that are thought to indicate a vasculopathic process, such as severe skin disease, with ulceration or calcinosis, gut vasculopathy or central nervous system disease. New treatments are much needed and are becoming available and being tested through international multicentre trials. This review will focus on recent insights into pathogenesis, the assessment of the disease in children and the modern approach to its treatment.
Calming and Coping Strategies for the School Nurse’s New Year
Authors: Bossi Larraine , Porter Stephanie
Published: October 2011

The school nurse is often sought out by students because he or she has an ability to listen to the student, offers an intervention that focuses attention on the student, and allows the student to experience her or his symptom in a new way. Helping the student to change the way the symptom is experienced, shifting focus, and adapting to a new awareness are all ways of using mind-body concepts. Many states’ Boards of Nursing Registration have developed rulings expanding the scope of practice to include mind-body interventions. This article will explain three such interventions applicable to the school nurse setting: breathing exercises, mindfulness practices, and the use of imagery.
Help Make Your School a Flu-Free Zone
Authors: Baker Carol J.
Published: October 2011

Schools are a particular “hot spot” for influenza because children can spread the disease a day or two before they show symptoms and can continue to spread the virus for at least a week after symptoms have subsided. School-age children have also been identified as key transmitters in communitywide outbreaks. The best way to prevent influenza outbreaks in schools and communities is through vaccination. Communities are encouraged to join efforts to vaccinate increasing numbers of children and youth. School nurses play an important role in helping to not only promote this national effort but also model it by receiving an annual flu shot.
Hats Off to Success
Authors: Pontius Deborah J.
Published: October 2011

Pediculosis at school is an emotional and contentious issue. Many school nurses do not feel prepared to take on the task of changing long-standing school policy, even in the light of solid evidence to do so. This article explores one school nurse’s experience in changing lice policy for her district.
Intensity of Smiling in Facebook Photos Predicts Future Life Satisfaction
Authors: Seder J. Patrick , Oishi Shigehiro
Published: October 2011

Does the extent to which people are smiling in their Facebook photos predict future life satisfaction? In two longitudinal studies, the authors showed that smile intensity coded from a single Facebook profile photograph from male and female participants’ first semester at college was a robust predictor of self-reported life satisfaction 3.5 years later—as they were about to graduate from college. Controlling for first-semester life satisfaction, the authors also determined that smile intensity was a unique predictor of changes in life satisfaction over time. In addition, the authors demonstrated that the results were not due to extraversion or to sex differences in smile intensity. Finally, the authors showed that participants who exhibited a more intense smile in their Facebook photo had better social relationships during their first semester at college and that the association between smile intensity and life satisfaction 3.5 years later was partially mediated by first-semester social relationships satisfaction.
Safety Practices of Sonographers and Their Knowledge of the Biologic Effects of Sonography
Authors: Bagley Jennifer , Thomas Kimberly , DiGiacinto Dora
Published: October 2011

Diagnostic medical sonography is viewed as a safe imaging modality. However, bioeffects research has yet to define the effects of exposure to sonography in humans. Therefore, sonographers must be aware of potential risks and practice ALARA (“as low as reasonably achievable”) routinely. This research explores sonographers’ ability to answer basic questions about the bioeffects of sonography, as well as their knowledge and use of the safety indices called the mechanical index (MI) and thermal index (TI). Members of the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers, a southwestern sonographers’ society, and a sonography community on Facebook 2010 were surveyed. There is a low level of bioeffects knowledge and minimal safety practices among sonographers in this survey. No significant relationship was found between sonographer knowledge of the bioeffects of sonography, years in the profession, or whether the sonographers monitor the MI/TI.
No difference in outcome between children and adolescents transplanted for acute lymphoblastic leukemia in second remission
Authors: Dini Giorgio , Zecca Marco , Balduzzi Adriana , Messina Chiara , Masetti Riccardo , Fagioli Franca , Favre Claudio , Rabusin Marco , Porta Fulvio , Biral Erika , Ripaldi Mimmo , Iori Anna Paola , Rognoni Carla , Prete Arcangelo , Locatelli Franco
Published: October 2011

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in second complete remission is one of the most common indications for allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in pediatric patients. We compared the outcome after HCST of adolescents, aged 14 to 18 years, with that of children (ie, patients < 14 years of age). Enrolled in the study were 395 patients given the allograft between January 1990 and December 2007; both children (334) and adolescents (61) were transplanted in the same pediatric institutions. All patients received a myeloablative regimen that included total body irradiation in the majority of them. The donor was an HLA-identical sibling for 199 patients and an unrelated volunteer in the remaining 196 patients. Children and adolescents had a comparable cumulative incidence of transplantation-related mortality, disease recurrence, and of both acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease. The 10-year probability of overall survival and event-free survival for the whole cohort of patients were 57% (95% confidence interval, 52%-62%) and 54% (95% confidence interval, 49%-59%), respectively, with no difference between children and adolescents. This study documents that adolescents with ALL in second complete remission given HSCT in pediatric centers have an outcome that does not differ from that of patients younger than 14 years of age.
Endogenous annexin A1 counter-regulates bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis
Authors: Damazo Amílcar S , Sampaio André LF , Nakata Cintia MAG , Flower Roderick J , Perretti Mauro , Oliani Sonia M
Published: October 2011

Background

The balancing functions of pro/anti-inflammatory mediators of the complex innate responses have been investigated in a variety of experimental inflammatory settings. Annexin-A1 (AnxA1) is one mediator of endogenous anti-inflammation, affording regulation of leukocyte trafficking and activation in many contexts, yet its role in lung pathologies has been scarcely investigated, despite being highly expressed in lung cells. Here we have applied the bleomycin lung fibrosis model to AnxA1 null mice over a 21-day time-course, to monitor potential impact of this mediator on the control of the inflammatory and fibrotic phases.

Results

Analyses in wild-type mice revealed strict spatial and temporal regulation of the Anxa1 gene, e.g. up-regulation in epithelial cells and infiltrated granulocytes at day 7, followed by augmented protein levels in alveolar macrophages by day 21. Absence of AnxA1 caused increases in: i) the degree of inflammation at day 7; and ii) indexes of fibrosis (assessed by deposition of hydroxyproline in the lung) at day 7 and 21. These alterations in AnxA1 null mice were paralleled by augmented TGF-β1, IFN-γ and TNF-α generation compared to wild-type mice. Finally, treatment of wild type animals with an AnxA1 peptido-mimetic, given prophylactically (from day 0 to 21) or therapeutically (from day 14 onward), ameliorated both signs of inflammation and fibrosis.

Conclusion

Collectively these data reveal a pathophysiological relevance for endogenous AnxA1 in lung inflammation and, more importantly, fibrosis, and may open new insights for the pharmacological treatment of lung fibrosis.
Central domain deletions affect the SAXS solution structure and function of Yeast Hsp40 proteins Sis1 and Ydj1
Authors: Silva Julio C , Borges Julio C , Cyr Douglas M , Ramos Carlos HI , Torriani Iris L
Published: October 2011

Background

Ydj1 and Sis1 are structurally and functionally distinct Hsp40 proteins of the yeast cytosol. Sis1 is an essential gene whereas the ydj1 gene is essential for growth at elevated temperatures and cannot complement sis1 gene deletion. Truncated polypeptides capable of complementing the sis1 gene deletion comprise the J-domain of either Sis1 or Ydj1 connected to the G/F region of Sis1 (but not Ydj1). Sis1 mutants in which the G/F was deleted but G/M maintained were capable of complementing the sis1 gene deletion.

Results

To investigate the relevance of central domains on the structure and function of Ydj1 and Sis1 we prepared Sis1 constructs deleting specific domains. The mutants had decreased affinity for heated luciferase but were equally capable of stimulating ATPase activity of Hsp70. Detailed low resolution structures were obtained and the overall flexibility of Hsp40 and its mutants were assessed using SAXS methods. Deletion of either the G/M or the G/M plus CTDI domains had little impact on the quaternary structure of Sis1 analyzed by the SAXS technique. However, deletion of the ZFLR-CTDI changed the relative position of the J-domains in Ydj1 in such a way that they ended up resembling that of Sis1. The results revealed that the G/F and G/M regions are not the only flexible domains. All model structures exhibit a common clamp-like conformation.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the central domains, previously appointed as important features for substrate binding, are also relevant keeping the J-domains in their specific relative positions. The clamp-like architecture observed seems also to be favorable to the interactions of Hsp40 with Hsp70.
Aurora-A inactivation causes mitotic spindle pole fragmentation by unbalancing microtubule-generated forces
Authors: Asteriti Italia A , Giubettini Maria , Lavia Patrizia , Guarguaglini Giulia
Published: October 2011

Background

Aurora-A is an oncogenic kinase playing well-documented roles in mitotic spindle organisation. We previously found that Aurora-A inactivation yields the formation of spindles with fragmented poles that can drive chromosome mis-segregation. Here we have addressed the mechanism through which Aurora-A activity regulates the structure and cohesion of spindle poles.

Results

We inactivated Aurora-A in human U2OS osteosarcoma cells either by RNA-interference-mediated silencing or treating cultures with the specific inhibitor MLN8237. We show that mitotic spindle pole fragmentation induced by Aurora-A inactivation is associated with microtubule hyperstabilisation. Silencing of the microtubule-stabilising factor ch-TOG prevents spindle pole fragmentation caused by inactivation of Aurora-A alone and concomitantly reduces the hyperstabilisation of microtubules. Furthermore, decreasing pole-directed spindle forces by inhibition of the Eg5 kinesin, or by destabilisation of microtubule-kinetochore attachments, also prevents pole fragmentation in Aurora-A-inactivated mitoses.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that microtubule-generated forces are imbalanced in Aurora-A-defective cells and exert abnormal pressure at the level of spindle poles, ultimately causing their fragmentation. This study therefore highlights a novel role of the Aurora-A kinase in regulating the balance between microtubule forces during bipolar spindle assembly.
PAP and NT5E Inhibit Nociceptive Neurotransmission by Rapidly Hydrolyzing Nucleotides to Adenosine
Authors: Street Sarah E , Walsh Paul L , Sowa Nathaniel A , Taylor-Blake Bonnie , Guillot Thomas S , Vihko Pirkko , Wightman R Mark , Zylka Mark J
Published: October 2011

Background:

Prostatic acid phosphatase (PAP) and ecto-5'-nucleotidase (NT5E, CD73) produce extracellular adenosine from the nucleotide AMP in spinal nociceptive (pain-sensing) circuits; however, it is currently unknown if these are the main ectonucleotidases that generate adenosine or how rapidly they generate adenosine.

Results:

We found that AMP hydrolysis, when measured histochemically, was nearly abolished in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons and lamina II of spinal cord from Pap/Nt5e double knockout (dKO) mice. Likewise, the antinociceptive effects of AMP, when combined with nucleoside transport inhibitors (dipyridamole or 5-iodotubericidin), were reduced by 80-100% in dKO mice. In addition, we used fast scan cyclic voltammetry (FSCV) to measure adenosine production at subsecond resolution within lamina II. Adenosine was maximally produced within seconds from AMP in wild-type (WT) mice but production was reduced >50% in dKO mice, indicating PAP and NT5E rapidly generate adenosine in lamina II. Unexpectedly, we also detected spontaneous low frequency adenosine transients in lamina II with FSCV. Adenosine transients were of short duration (<2 s) and were reduced (>60%) in frequency in Pap−/−, Nt5e−/− and dKO mice, suggesting these ectonucleotidases rapidly hydrolyze endogenously released nucleotides to adenosine. Field potential recordings in lamina II and behavioral studies indicate that adenosine made by these enzymes acts through the adenosine A1 receptor to inhibit excitatory neurotransmission and nociception.

Conclusions:

Collectively, our experiments indicate that PAP and NT5E are the main ectonucleotidases that generate adenosine in nociceptive circuits and indicate these enzymes transform pulsatile or sustained nucleotide release into an inhibitory adenosinergic signal.
A diagnostic challenge for schistosomiasis japonica in China: consequences on praziquantel-based morbidity control
Authors: Zhou Yi-biao , Zheng Hui-min , Jiang Qing-wu
Published: October 2011

Worldwide schistosomiasis continues to be a serious public health problem. Over the past five decades, China has made remarkable progress in reducing Schistosoma japonicum infections in humans to a relatively low level. Endemic regions are currently circumscribed in certain core areas where re-infection and repeated chemotherapy are frequent. At present, selective chemotherapy with praziquantel is one of the main strategies in China's National Schistosomiasis Control Program, and thus diagnosis of infected individuals is a key step for such control. In this paper we review the current status of our knowledge about diagnostic tools for schistosomiasis japonica. A simple, affordable, sensitive, and specific assay for field diagnosis of schistosomiasis japonica is not yet available, and this poses great barriers towards full control of schistosomiasis. Hence, a search for a diagnostic approach, which delivers these characteristics, is essential and should be given high priority.
Improving the population genetics toolbox for the study of the African malaria vector Anopheles nili: microsatellite mapping to chromosomes
Authors: Peery Ashley , Sharakhova Maria V , Antonio-Nkondjio Christophe , Ndo Cyrille , Weill Mylene , Simard Frederic , Sharakhov Igor V
Published: October 2011

Background

Anopheles nili is a major vector of malaria in the humid savannas and forested areas of sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding the population genetic structure and evolutionary dynamics of this species is important for the development of an adequate and targeted malaria control strategy in Africa. Chromosomal inversions and microsatellite markers are commonly used for studying the population structure of malaria mosquitoes. Physical mapping of these markers onto the chromosomes further improves the toolbox, and allows inference on the demographic and evolutionary history of the target species.

Results

Availability of polytene chromosomes allowed us to develop a map of microsatellite markers and to study polymorphism of chromosomal inversions. Nine microsatellite markers were mapped to unique locations on all five chromosomal arms of An. nili using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Probes were obtained from 300-483 bp-long inserts of plasmid clones and from 506-559 bp-long fragments amplified with primers designed using the An. nili genome assembly generated on an Illumina platform. Two additional loci were assigned to specific chromosome arms of An. nili based on in silico sequence similarity and chromosome synteny with Anopheles gambiae. Three microsatellites were mapped inside or in the vicinity of the polymorphic chromosomal inversions 2Rb and 2Rc. A statistically significant departure from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, due to a deficit in heterozygotes at the 2Rb inversion, and highly significant linkage disequilibrium between the two inversions, were detected in natural An. nili populations collected from Burkina Faso.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that next-generation sequencing can be used to improve FISH for microsatellite mapping in species with no reference genome sequence. Physical mapping of microsatellite markers in An. nili showed that their cytological locations spanned the entire five-arm complement, allowing genome-wide inferences. The knowledge about polymorphic inversions and chromosomal locations of microsatellite markers has been useful for explaining differences in genetic variability across loci and significant differentiation observed among natural populations of An. nili.
Investigation of the serum levels of anterior pituitary hormones in male children with autism
Authors: Iwata Keiko , Matsuzaki Hideo , Miyachi Taishi , Shimmura Chie , Suda Shiro , Tsuchiya Kenji J , Matsumoto Kaori , Suzuki Katsuaki , Iwata Yasuhide , Nakamura Kazuhiko , Tsujii Masatsugu , Sugiyama Toshirou , Sato Kohji , Mori Norio
Published: October 2011

Background

The neurobiological basis of autism remains poorly understood. The diagnosis of autism is based solely on behavioural characteristics because there are currently no reliable biological markers. To test whether the anterior pituitary hormones and cortisol could be useful as biological markers for autism, we assessed the basal serum levels of these hormones in subjects with autism and normal controls.

Findings

Using a suspension array system, we determined the serum levels of six anterior pituitary hormones, including adrenocorticotropic hormone and growth hormone, in 32 drug-naive subjects (aged 6 to 18 years, all boys) with autism, and 34 healthy controls matched for age and gender. We also determined cortisol levels in these subjects by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Serum levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone, growth hormone and cortisol were significantly higher in subjects with autism than in controls. In addition, there was a significantly positive correlation between cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone levels in autism.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that increased basal serum levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone accompanied by increased cortisol and growth hormone may be useful biological markers for autism.
Pharmacological postconditioning with sevoflurane after cardiopulmonary resuscitation reduces myocardial dysfunction
Authors: Meybohm Patrick , Gruenewald Matthias , Albrecht Martin , Müller Christina , Zitta Karina , Foesel Nikola , Maracke Moritz , Tacke Sabine , Schrezenmeir Jürgen , Scholz Jens , Bein Berthold
Published: October 2011

Introduction

In this study, we sought to examine whether pharmacological postconditioning with sevoflurane (SEVO) is neuro- and cardioprotective in a pig model of cardiopulmonary resuscitation.

Methods

Twenty-two pigs were subjected to cardiac arrest. After 8 minutes of ventricular fibrillation and 2 minutes of basic life support, advanced cardiac life support was started. After successful return of spontaneous circulation (N = 16), animals were randomized to either (1) propofol (CONTROL) anesthesia or (2) SEVO anesthesia for 4 hours. Neurological function was assessed 24 hours after return of spontaneous circulation. The effects on myocardial and cerebral damage, especially on inflammation, apoptosis and tissue remodeling, were studied using cellular and molecular approaches.

Results

Animals treated with SEVO had lower peak troponin T levels (median [IQR]) (CONTROL vs SEVO = 0.31 pg/mL [0.2 to 0.65] vs 0.14 pg/mL [0.09 to 0.25]; P < 0.05) and improved left ventricular systolic and diastolic function compared to the CONTROL group (P < 0.05). SEVO was associated with a reduction in myocardial IL-1β protein concentrations (0.16 pg/μg total protein [0.14 to 0.17] vs 0.12 pg/μg total protein [0.11 to 0.14]; P < 0.01), a reduction in apoptosis (increased procaspase-3 protein levels (0.94 arbitrary units [0.86 to 1.04] vs 1.18 arbitrary units [1.03 to 1.28]; P < 0.05), increased hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α protein expression (P < 0.05) and increased activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (P < 0.05). SEVO did not, however, affect neurological deficit score or cerebral cellular and molecular pathways.

Conclusions

SEVO reduced myocardial damage and dysfunction after cardiopulmonary resuscitation in the early postresuscitation period. The reduction was associated with a reduced rate of myocardial proinflammatory cytokine expression, apoptosis, increased HIF-1α expression and increased activity of matrix metalloproteinase 9. Early administration of SEVO may not, however, improve neurological recovery.
Angiotensin II Signaling Promotes Follicle Growth and Dominance in Cattle
Authors: Ferreira Rogério , Gasperin Bernardo , Rovani Monique , Santos Joabel , Barreta Marcos , Bohrer Rodrigo , Price Christopher , Bayard Dias Gonçalves Paulo
Published: October 2011

It is generally understood that angiotensin II (AngII) promotes follicle atresia in rats, although recent data suggested that this may not be true in cattle. In this study, we aimed to determine in vivo whether AngII alters follicle development in cattle, using intrafollicular injection of AngII or antagonist into the growing dominant follicle or the second largest subordinate follicle. Injection of saralasin, an AngII antagonist, into the growing dominant follicle inhibited follicular growth, and this inhibitory effect was overcome by systemic FSH supplementation. Injection of AngII into the dominant follicle did not affect follicular growth, whereas injection of AngII into the second largest follicle prevented the expected atresia of this subordinate follicle, and the treated follicle grew at the same rate as the dominant follicle for the next 24 h. Inhibition of AngII action in the dominant follicle decreased estradiol concentrations in follicular fluid and the abundance of mRNA encoding aromatase, 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, LH receptor, and cyclinD2 in granulosa cells, with minimal effects on theca cells. The effect of AngII on aromatase mRNA levels was confirmed using an in vitro granulosa cell culture system. In conclusion, these data suggest that AngII signaling promotes follicle growth in cattle and does so by regulating genes involved in estradiol secretion and granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation.
Catechol-O-Methyltransferase Is Dispensable for Vascular Protection by Estradiol in Mouse Models of Atherosclerosis and Neointima Formation
Authors: Wilhelmson Anna S. , Bourghardt-Fagman Johan , Gogos Joseph A. , Fogelstrand Per , Tivesten Åsa
Published: October 2011

Estradiol is converted to the biologically active metabolite 2-methoxyestradiol via the activity of the enzyme catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT). Exogenous administration of both estradiol and 2-methoxyestradiol reduces experimental atherosclerosis and neointima formation, and COMT-dependent formation of 2-methoxyestradiol likely mediates the antimitogenic effect of estradiol on smooth muscle cells in vitro. This study evaluated whether 2-methoxyestradiol mediates the vasculoprotective actions of estradiol in vivo. Wild-type (WT) and COMT knockout (COMTKO) mice on an apolipoprotein E-deficient background were gonadectomized and treated with estradiol or placebo. Exogenous estradiol reduced atherosclerotic lesion formation in both females (WT, −78%; COMTKO, −82%) and males (WT, −48%; COMTKO, −53%) and was equally effective in both genotypes. We further evaluated how exogenous estradiol affected neointima formation after ligation of the carotid artery in ovariectomized female mice; estradiol reduced intimal hyperplasia to a similar extent in both WT (−80%) and COMTKO (−77%) mice. In ovarian-intact female COMTKO mice, atherosclerosis was decreased (−25%) compared with WT controls. In conclusion, the COMT enzyme is dispensable for vascular protection by exogenous estradiol in experimental atherosclerosis and neointima formation in vivo. Instead, COMT deficiency in virgin female mice with intact endogenous production of estradiol results in relative protection against atherosclerosis.
Geographic Variation in the Cost of Ambulatory Care in Switzerland
Authors: Busato André , Matter Pius , Künzi Beat , Goodman David
Published: October 2011

Objectives

Swiss health care is relatively costly. In order better to understand the drivers of spending, this study analyses geographic variation in per capita consultation costs for ambulatory care.

Methods

Small area and longitudinal analysis of costs of ambulatory services covered by compulsory health insurance, 2003-07.

Results

The results show considerable geographic variation in per capita consultation costs, with higher costs in urban compared to rural areas. Areas with higher availability of care had higher costs, and residents of urban and high income areas used more specialist care and generated higher costs than residents of rural areas.

Conclusions

There are persistent regional differences in the per capita cost of ambulatory care that are not explained by demographic factors, access to care, or needs. It is likely that higher access to care leads to greater inappropriate use, particularly of specialists. Implementing gatekeeping systems and financial incentives that encourage better coordination of primary care may slow growth in costs and improve care.
The Andersen Model of Total Patient Delay: A Systematic Review of Its Application in Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Walter Fiona , Webster Andrew , Scott Suzanne , Emery Jon
Published: October 2011

Objective

Patient pathways to presentation to health care professionals and initial management in primary care are key determinants of outcomes in cancer. Reducing diagnostic delays may result in improved prognosis and increase the proportion of early stage cancers identified. Investigating diagnostic delay could be facilitated by use of a robust theoretical framework. We systematically reviewed the literature reporting the application of Andersen's Model of Total Patient Delay (delay stages: appraisal, illness, behavioural, scheduling, treatment) in studies which assess cancer diagnosis.

Methods

We searched four electronic databases and conducted a narrative synthesis. Inclusion criteria were studies which: reported primary research, focused on cancer diagnosis and explicitly applied one or more stages of the Andersen Model in the collection or analysis of data.

Results

The vast majority of studies of diagnostic delay in cancer have not applied a theoretical model to inform data collection or reporting. Ten papers (reporting eight studies) met our inclusion criteria: three studied several cancers. The studies were heterogeneous in their methods and quality. The review confirmed that there are clearly identifiable stages between the recognition of a symptom, first presentation to a health care professional, subsequent diagnosis and initiation of treatment. There was strong evidence to support the existence and importance of appraisal and treatment delay as defined in the Andersen Model, although treatment delay requires expansion. There was some evidence to support scheduling delay which may be contributed to by both patient and the health service. Illness delay was often difficult to distinguish from appraisal delay. It was less clear whether behavioural delay exists as a separate significant stage.

Conclusions

Greater consistency is required in the conduct and reporting of studies of diagnostic delay in cancer. We propose refinements to the Andersen Model which could be used to increase its validity and improve the consistency of reporting in future studies.
Transplacental transfer of medetomidine and ketamine in pregnant ewes
Authors: Musk G C , Netto J D , Maker G L , Trengove R D
Published: October 2011

The extent of placental transfer of medetomidine and ketamine is unknown in pregnant ewes. Date-mated singleton ( n = 8) and twin ( n = 8) pregnant merino cross ewes were anaesthetized for Caesarean delivery of preterm lamb fetuses. A combination of medetomidine (20 μg/kg) and ketamine (10 mg/kg) was administered by intravenous injection and surgery performed immediately thereafter. Blood samples were collected from the ewe at one, five and 10 min after intravenous injection and from the umbilical vein of the fetus at delivery. Non-pregnant ewes were also anaesthetized ( n = 8). There was no difference in the plasma concentration of medetomidine or ketamine when comparing singleton and twin ewes or pregnant and non-pregnant ewes for the short duration of the study. Fetal plasma concentrations of each drug were comparable to the maternal concentrations at the same time. We conclude that both drugs cross the placenta readily and provide anaesthesia and analgesia for the fetus when it is delivered.
A simple procedure for estimation of total body surface area and determination of a new value of Meeh's constant in rats
Authors: Gouma E , Simos Y , Verginadis I , Lykoudis E , Evangelou A , Karkabounas S
Published: October 2011

Precise calculation of total body surface area (TBSA) or premarked surface areas (P-MSAs) is of great importance in many biomedical applications. The aim of the paper was to present a simple procedure of measurement of P-MSAs in small animals and to determine a more accurate Meeh's constant ( k), for a commonly used weight range of laboratory rats. A series of 30 Wistar rats, weighing 195–240 g, were anaesthetized and weighted. The TBSA of each animal was measured using a clear pocket and a planimeter. The data obtained were entered into the Meeh's formula (TBSA = kW2/3), the most commonly used for small experimental animals, so that a k value for each animal as well as a mean k value (9.83) were obtained. The TBSA of the animals was also calculated using the aforementioned mean k value and compared with that obtained using k values reported in previous studies. According to our findings, the new mean k value, determined with the use of our procedure of surface area measurement, ensured greater accuracy in the determination of the TBSA of experimental rats of a specific weight range. We also suggest a new procedure of surface area measurement which is easy, accurate and does not require animal sacrifice.