bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thrombin generates previously unidentified C5 products that support the terminal complement activation pathway
Authors: Krisinger Michael J. , Goebeler Verena , Lu Zhen , Meixner Scott C. , Myles Timothy , Pryzdial Edward L. G. , Conway Edward M.
Published: July 2012

The coagulation and complement pathways simultaneously promote homeostasis in response to injury but cause tissue damage when unregulated. Mechanisms by which they cooperate are poorly understood. To delineate their interactions, we studied the effects of thrombin and C5 convertase on C5 in purified and plasma-based systems, measuring release of the anaphylatoxin C5a, and generation of C5b, the initial component of the lytic membrane attack complex. Thrombin cleaved C5 poorly at R751, yielding minimal C5a and C5b. However, thrombin efficiently cleaved C5 at a newly identified, highly conserved R947 site, generating previously undescribed intermediates C5T and C5bT. Tissue factor-induced clotting of plasma led to proteolysis of C5 at a thrombin-sensitive site corresponding to R947 and not R751. Combined treatment of C5 with thrombin and C5 convertase yielded C5a and C5bT, the latter forming a C5bT-9 membrane attack complex with significantly more lytic activity than with C5b-9. Our findings provide a new paradigm for complement activation, in which thrombin and C5 convertase are invariant partners, enhancing the terminal pathway via the generation of newly uncovered C5 intermediates. Delineating the molecular links between coagulation and complement will provide new therapeutic targets for diseases associated with excess fibrin deposition and complement activation.
A comparative transcriptomic, fluxomic and metabolomic analysis of the response of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to increases in NADPH oxidation
Authors: Celton Magalie , Sanchez Isabelle , Goelzer Anne , Fromion Vincent , Camarasa Carole , Dequin Sylvie
Published: July 2012

Background

Redox homeostasis is essential to sustain metabolism and growth. We recently reported that yeast cells meet a gradual increase in imposed NADPH demand by progressively increasing flux through the pentose phosphate (PP) and acetate pathways and by exchanging NADH for NADPH in the cytosol, via a transhydrogenase-like cycle. Here, we studied the mechanisms underlying this metabolic response, through a combination of gene expression profiling and analyses of extracellular and intracellular metabolites and13 C-flux analysis.

Results

NADPH oxidation was increased by reducing acetoin to 2,3-butanediol in a strain overexpressing an engineered NADPH-dependent butanediol dehydrogenase cultured in the presence of acetoin. An increase in NADPH demand to 22 times the anabolic requirement for NADPH was accompanied by the intracellular accumulation of PP pathway metabolites consistent with an increase in flux through this pathway. Increases in NADPH demand were accompanied by the successive induction of several genes of the PP pathway. NADPH-consuming pathways, such as amino-acid biosynthesis, were upregulated as an indirect effect of the decrease in NADPH availability. Metabolomic analysis showed that the most extreme modification of NADPH demand resulted in an energetic problem. Our results also highlight the influence of redox status on aroma production.

Conclusions

Combined13 C-flux, intracellular metabolite levels and microarrays analyses revealed that NADPH homeostasis, in response to a progressive increase in NADPH demand, was achieved by the regulation, at several levels, of the PP pathway. This pathway is principally under metabolic control, but regulation of the transcription of PP pathway genes can exert a stronger effect, by redirecting larger amounts of carbon to this pathway to satisfy the demand for NADPH. No coordinated response of genes involved in NADPH metabolism was observed, suggesting that yeast has no system for sensing NADPH/NADP+ratio. Instead, the induction of NADPH-consuming amino-acid pathways in conditions of NADPH limitation may indirectly trigger the transcription of a set of PP pathway genes.
Health-related quality of life and strain in caregivers of Australians with Parkinson’s disease: An observational study
Authors: Kelly David H , McGinley Jennifer L , Huxham Frances E , Menz Hylton B , Watts Jennifer J , Iansek Robert , Murphy Anna T , Danoudis Mary , Adair Brooke , Morris Meg E
Published: July 2012

Background

The relationship between health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in people with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers is little understood and any effects on caregiver strain remain unclear. This paper examines these relationships in an Australian sample.

Methods

Using the generic EuroQol (EQ-5D) and disease-specific Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 Item (PDQ-39), HRQoL was evaluated in a sample of 97 people with PD and their caregivers. Caregiver strain was assessed using the Modified Caregiver Strain Index. Associations were evaluated between: (i) caregiver and care-recipient HRQoL; (ii) caregiver HRQoL and caregiver strain, and; (iii) between caregiver strain and care-recipient HRQoL.

Results

No statistically significant relationships were found between caregiver and care-recipient HRQoL, or between caregiver HRQoL and caregiver strain. Although this Australian sample of caregivers experienced relatively good HRQoL and moderately low strain, a significant correlation was found between HRQoL of people with PD and caregiver strain (rho 0.43, p < .001).

Conclusion

Poor HRQoL in people with PD is associated with higher strain in caregivers. Therapy interventions may target problems reported as most troublesome by people with PD, with potential to reduce strain on the caregiver.
Cardiac Troponin I elevation after epileptic seizure
Authors: Sieweke Nicole , Allendörfer Jens , Franzen Wolfgang , Feustel Andreas , Reichenberger Frank , Pabst Wolfgang , Krämer Heidrun Heidi , Kaps Manfred , Tanislav Christian
Published: July 2012

Background

Cardiac troponin-I (cTNI) is highly specific biomarker to prove myocardial damage, e.g. in acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, it occurs in other conditions as well. We therefore analysed cTNI increase in patients after generalized convulsive seizure.

Methods

Consecutive patients admitted with acute generalized convulsive seizure were included in case of cTNI measurement on admission. Among 898 selected cases, 53 patients were referred secondary to our department; in 845 cases cTNI measurements on admission were available. In case of multiple admissions (81 cases), only the first admission entered our analysis. In 17 patients elevated cTNI was determined due to ACS; in one patient a myocarditis was found. 5 patients suffered of relevant renal insufficiency. Finally 741 patients were included in the analysis. A cTNI cut-off level of ≥ 0.1 ng/ml was considered. Factors associated with a cTNI increase were analysed subsequently.

Results

The mean age of the study population (n = 741) was 47.8 years (SD ± 18.6), 40.9% were female. In 50 patients (6.7%) a cTNI elevation of unknown origin was found; no obvious cardiac involvement could be detected in these patients who all remained asymptomatic. A vascular risk profile (including at least hypertension, hypercholesterolemia or diabetes) (OR = 3.62; CI: 1.59 to 8.21; p = 0.001) and elevated creatine kinase on admission (OR = 2.36; CI: 1.26 to 4.39; p = 0.002) were independent factors associated with cTNI release.

Conclusion

cTNI release occurs in patients with generalized convulsive seizure with predominance in patients with vascular risk profile.
Evaluation of filtering blebs using the ‘Wuerzburg bleb classification score’ compared to clinical findings
Authors: Furrer Sandra , Menke Marcel N , Funk Jens , Töteberg-Harms Marc
Published: July 2012

Background

To determine the agreement between intraocular pressure and the ‘Wuerzburg bleb classification score’, as well as between single items of the score and intraocular pressure. Interobserver variability was analyzed.

Methods

57 post-trabeculectomy eyes were included. Colour photographs were used to score the filtering bleb in accordance to the Wuerzburg bleb classification score by two different examiners. At the same visit, clinical data such as intraocular pressure, best corrected visual acuity, slit lamp biomicroscopy and medical history were obtained by another examiner.

Results

After trabeculectomy, 42 out of 57 eyes (73.7%) reached the target pressure (≤21mmHg, and intraocular pressure reduction of at least 20%, without antiglaucoma medication, and without any additional intervention). Fair agreement was found between intraocular pressure and Wuerzburg bleb classification score ≥8 points and ≥7 points (kappa 0.24 and 0.27, respectively). Analyzing the subgroups of the morphological criteria, best agreement was found between occurrence of microcysts and target intraocular pressure (к 0.22 – 0.34).

Conclusions

Evaluating filtering blebs after trabeculectomy by using the Wuerzburg bleb classification score is a good technique for predicting intraocular pressure control in eyes attaining a minimum score of seven points. The presence of microcysts on the filtering bleb predicts that the eye is likely to attain target pressure.
In Arabidopsis thaliana codon volatility scores reflect GC3 composition rather than selective pressure
Authors: O'Connell Mary J , Doyle Aisling M , Juenger Thomas E , Donoghue Mark TA , Keshavaiah Channa , Tuteja Reetu , Spillane Charles
Published: July 2012

Background

Synonymous codon usage bias has typically been correlated with, and attributed to translational efficiency. However, there are other pressures on genomic sequence composition that can affect codon usage patterns such as mutational biases. This study provides an analysis of the codon usage patterns in Arabidopsis thaliana in relation to gene expression levels, codon volatility, mutational biases and selective pressures.

Results

We have performed synonymous codon usage and codon volatility analyses for all genes in the A. thaliana genome. In contrast to reports for species from other kingdoms, we find that neither codon usage nor volatility are correlated with selection pressure (as measured by dN/dS), nor with gene expression levels on a genome wide level. Our results show that codon volatility and usage are not synonymous, rather that they are correlated with the abundance of G and C at the third codon position (GC3).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that while the A. thaliana genome shows evidence for synonymous codon usage bias, this is not related to the expression levels of its constituent genes. Neither codon volatility nor codon usage are correlated with expression levels or selective pressures but, because they are directly related to the composition of G and C at the third codon position, they are the result of mutational bias. Therefore, in A. thaliana codon volatility and usage do not result from selection for translation efficiency or protein functional shift as measured by positive selection.
Participation of heparin binding proteins from the surface of Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis promastigotes in the adhesion of parasites to Lutzomyia longipalpis cells (Lulo) in vitro
Authors: de Castro Côrtes Luzia Monteiro , de Souza Pereira Mirian Claudia , da Silva Franklin Souza , Pereira Bernardo Acácio Santini , de Oliveira Junior Francisco Odêncio , de Araújo Soares Renata Oliveira , Brazil Reginaldo Peçanha , Toma Leny , Vicente Carolina Meloni , Nader Helena Bonciani , de Fátima Madeira Maria , Bello Felio J , Alves Carlos Roberto
Published: July 2012

Background

Leishmania (V.) braziliensisis a causative agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Brazil. During the parasite life cycle, the promastigotes adhere to the gut of sandflies, to avoid being eliminated with the dejection. The Lulo cell line, derived fromLutzomyia longipalpis(Diptera: Psychodidae), is a suitablein vitrostudy model to understand the features of parasite adhesion.Here, we analyze the role of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from Lulo cells and proteins from the parasites in this event.

Methods

Flagellar (Ff) and membrane (Mf) fractions from promastigotes were obtained by differential centrifugation and the purity of fractions confirmed by western blot assays, using specific antibodies for cellular compartments. Heparin-binding proteins (HBP) were isolated from both fractions using a HiTrap-Heparin column. In addition, binding of promastigotes to Lulo cells or to a heparin-coated surface was assessed by inhibition assays or surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis.

Results

The success of promastigotes subcellular fractionation led to the obtainment of Ffand Mfproteins, both of which presented two main protein bands (65.0 and 55.0kDa) with affinity to heparin. The contribution of HBPs in the adherence of promastigotes to Lulo cells was assessed through competition assays, using HS or the purified HBPs fractions. All tested samples presented a measurable inhibition rate when compared to control adhesion rate (17 ± 2.0% of culture cells with adhered parasites): 30% (for HS 20μg/ml) and 16% (for HS 10μg/ml); HBP Mf(35.2% for 10μg/ml and 25.4% for 20μg/ml) and HBP Ff(10.0% for 10μg/ml and 31.4% for 20μg/ml). Additionally, to verify the presence of sulfated GAGs in Lulo cells surface and intracellular compartment, metabolic labeling with radioactive sulfate was performed, indicating the presence of an HS and chondroitin sulfate in both cell sections. The SPR analysis performed further confirmed the presence of GAGs ligands onL. (V.) braziliensispromastigote surfaces.

Conclusions

The data presented here point to evidences that HBPs present on the surface ofL. (V.) braziliensispromastigotes participate in adhesion of these parasites to Lulo cells through HS participation.
Bortezomib Induction and Maintenance Treatment in Patients With Newly Diagnosed Multiple Myeloma: Results of the Randomized Phase III HOVON-65/ GMMG-HD4 Trial
Authors: Sonneveld Pieter , Schmidt-Wolf Ingo G.H. , van der Holt Bronno , el Jarari Laila , Bertsch Uta , Salwender Hans , Zweegman Sonja , Vellenga Edo , Broyl Annemiek , Blau Igor W. , Weisel Katja C. , Wittebol Shulamiet , Bos Gerard M.J. , Stevens-Kroef Marian , Scheid Christof , Pfreundschuh Michael , Hose Dirk , Jauch Anna , van der Velde Helgi , Raymakers Reinier , Schaafsma Martijn R. , Kersten Marie-Jose , van Marwijk-Kooy Marinus , Duehrsen Ulrich , Lindemann Walter , Wijermans Pierre W. , Lokhorst Henk M. , Goldschmidt Hartmut M.
Published: July 2012

Purpose

We investigated whether bortezomib during induction and maintenance improves survival in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM).

Patients and Methods

In all, 827 eligible patients with newly diagnosed symptomatic MM were randomly assigned to receive induction therapy with vincristine, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone (VAD) or bortezomib, doxorubicin, and dexamethasone (PAD) followed by high-dose melphalan and autologous stem-cell transplantation. Maintenance consisted of thalidomide 50 mg (VAD) once per day or bortezomib 1.3 mg/m2 (PAD) once every 2 weeks for 2 years. The primary analysis was progression-free survival (PFS) adjusted for International Staging System (ISS) stage.

Results

Complete response (CR), including near CR, was superior after PAD induction (15% v 31%; P < .001) and bortezomib maintenance (34% v 49%; P < .001). After a median follow-up of 41 months, PFS was superior in the PAD arm (median of 28 months v 35 months; hazard ratio [HR], 0.75; 95% CI, 0.62 to 0.90; P = .002). In multivariate analysis, overall survival (OS) was better in the PAD arm (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.60 to 1.00; P = .049). In high-risk patients presenting with increased creatinine more than 2 mg/dL, bortezomib significantly improved PFS from a median of 13 months to 30 months (HR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.26 to 0.78; P = .004) and OS from a median of 21 months to 54 months (HR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.16 to 0.65; P < .001). A benefit was also observed in patients with deletion 17p13 (median PFS, 12 v 22 months; HR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.26 to 0.86; P = .01; median OS, 24 months v not reached at 54 months; HR, 0.36; 95% CI, 0.18 to 0.74; P = .003).

Conclusion

Bortezomib during induction and maintenance improves CR and achieves superior PFS and OS.
Screening Adult Survivors of Childhood Cancer for Cardiomyopathy: Comparison of Echocardiography and Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Armstrong Gregory T. , Plana Juan Carlos , Zhang Nan , Srivastava Deokumar , Green Daniel M. , Ness Kirsten K. , Daniel Donovan F. , Metzger Monika L. , Arevalo Alejandro , Durand Jean-Bernard , Joshi Vijaya , Hudson Melissa M. , Robison Leslie L. , Flamm Scott D.
Published: July 2012

Purpose

To compare two-dimensional (2D) echocardiography, the current method of screening for treatment-related cardiomyopathy recommended by the Children's Oncology Group Guidelines, to cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, the reference standard for left ventricular (LV) function.

Patients and Methods

Cross-sectional, contemporaneous evaluation of LV structure and function by 2D and three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography and CMR imaging in 114 adult survivors of childhood cancer currently median age 39 years (range, 22 to 53 years) exposed to anthracycline chemotherapy and/or chest-directed radiation therapy.

Results

In this survivor population, 14% (n = 16) had an ejection fraction (EF) less than 50% by CMR. Survivors previously undiagnosed with cardiotoxicity (n = 108) had a high prevalence of EF (32%) and cardiac mass (48%) that were more than two standard deviations below the mean of normative CMR data. 2D echocardiography overestimated the mean EF of this population by 5%. Compared with CMR, 2D echocardiography (biplane method) had a sensitivity of 25% and a false-negative rate of 75% for detection of EF less than 50%, although 3D echocardiography had 53% and 47%, respectively. Twelve survivors (11%) had an EF less than 50% by CMR but were misclassified as ≥ 50% (range, 50% to 68%) by 2D echocardiography (biplane method). Detection of cardiomyopathy was improved (sensitivity, 75%) by using a higher 2D echocardiography cutoff (EF < 60%) to detect an EF less than 50% by the reference standard CMR.

Conclusion

CMR identified a high prevalence of cardiomyopathy among adult survivors previously undiagnosed with cardiac disease. 2D echocardiography demonstrated limited screening performance. In this high-risk population, survivors with an EF 50% to 59% by 2D echocardiography should be considered for comprehensive cardiac assessment, which may include CMR.
The Price We Pay for Progress: A Meta-Analysis of Harms of Newly Approved Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Niraula Saroj , Seruga Bostjan , Ocana Alberto , Shao Tiffany , Goldstein Robyn , Tannock Ian F. , Amir Eitan
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Registration of new anticancer drugs is usually based on results of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) showing improved efficacy when compared with standard therapy. There is relatively less emphasis on toxicity. In our study, we analyze serious toxicities of newly approved anticancer drugs reported in pivotal RCTs used for drug registration.

Patients and Methods

We identified RCTs evaluating agents for the treatment of solid tumors approved by the US Food and Drug Administration between 2000 and 2010. Odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI were computed for three end points of safety and tolerability: treatment-related death, treatment-discontinuation related to toxicity, and grade 3 or 4 adverse events (AEs). These were then pooled in a meta-analysis. Correlations between these end points and the hazard ratios for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) were also assessed.

Results

Thirty-eight RCTs were analyzed. Compared with control groups, the odds of toxic death was greater for new agents (OR, 1.40; 95% CI, 1.15 to 1.70; P < .001) as were the odds of treatment-discontinuation (OR, 1.33; 95% CI, 1.22 to 1.45, P < .001). Grade 3 or 4 AEs (OR, 1.52; 95% CI, 1.35 to 1. 71; P < .001) were also more common with new agents, especially nonhematologic AEs such as diarrhea, skin reactions, and neuropathy. There were no significant correlations between safety end points and OS or PFS.

Conclusion

New anticancer agents that lead to improvements in time-to-event end points also increase morbidity and treatment-related mortality. The balance between efficacy and toxicity may be less favorable in clinical practice because of selection of fewer patients with good performance status and limited comorbidities. Patients' baseline health characteristics should be considered when choosing therapy.
Suppression of Plasma Estrogen Levels by Letrozole and Anastrozole Is Related to Body Mass Index in Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Folkerd Elizabeth J. , Dixon J. Michael , Renshaw Lorna , A'Hern Roger P. , Dowsett Mitch
Published: July 2012

Purpose

To investigate whether suppression of plasma estradiol and estrone sulfate levels by the aromatase inhibitors (AIs) anastrozole and letrozole is related to body mass index (BMI) in postmenopausal women with early estrogen receptor (ER) –positive breast cancer. Recent studies have reported that the AI anastrozole has lower effectiveness than tamoxifen in women with high BMI. This effect with high BMI might hypothetically be a result of reduced inhibition of aromatase and suppression of plasma estrogen levels and might be overcome by the use of an increased dose of anastrozole or, alternatively, the use of a more potent AI such as letrozole.

Patients and Methods

Plasma estradiol and estrone sulfate levels from a highly sensitive radioimmunoassay were available for 44 postmenopausal patients who received anastrozole (1 mg per day) for 3 months followed by letrozole (2.5 mg per day) for 3 months or the opposite sequence. Correlations between the estrogen suppression by each AI and BMI were assessed.

Results

Baseline values of estradiol and estrone sulfate were significantly correlated with BMI (r = 0.57; P < .001, and r = 0.38; P = .006, respectively). Levels of estrogen in patients receiving treatment were greater at higher levels of BMI with both AIs, but although this was significant with letrozole (r = 0.35; P = .013, and r = 0.30; P = .035 for estradiol and estrone sulfate, respectively), it was not with anastrozole. Suppression of both estrogen types was greater with letrozole across the full range of BMIs in this study.

Conclusion

The suppressed levels of plasma estradiol and estrone sulfate in postmenopausal women with early ER-positive breast cancer treated with the AIs anastrozole and letrozole are related to BMI.
Dexamethasone Induces Germ Cell Apoptosis in the Human Fetal Ovary
Authors: Poulain Marine , Frydman Nelly , Duquenne Clotilde , N′Tumba-Byn Thierry , Benachi Alexandra , Habert René , Rouiller-Fabre Virginie , Livera Gabriel
Published: July 2012

Context:

The 21-hydroxylase deficiency is the most common cause of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Pregnant women presenting a risk of genetic transmission may be treated with synthetic glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone (DEX) to prevent female fetus virilization.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to assess the potential deleterious effects of DEX exposure on fetal ovarian development.

Settings:

Human fetal ovaries, ranging from 8–11 weeks after fertilization, were harvested from material available after legally induced abortions. They were cultured in the absence or presence of DEX (2, 10, or 50 μm) over 14 d, and histological analyses were performed.

Results:

The glucocorticoid receptor NR3C1 was present and the signaling pathway active in the fetal ovary as demonstrated by the expression of NR3C1 target genes, such as PLZF and FKBP5, in response to DEX exposure. DEX decreased germ cell density at the 10 and 50 μm doses. Exposure to DEX, even at the highest dose, did not change oogonial proliferation as monitored by 5-bromo-2′-deoxyuridine incorporation and significantly increased the apoptotic rate, detected with cleaved caspase 3 staining. Interestingly, the expression of the prosurvival gene KIT was significantly decreased in the presence of DEX during the course of the culture.

Conclusion:

We have demonstrated for the first time that in vitro exposure to high doses of DEX impairs human fetal oogenesis through an increase in apoptosis. These data are of high importance, and additional epidemiological studies are required to investigate the female fertility of those women who have been exposed to DEX during fetal life.
Screening for Neisseria gonorrhoeae using the BD ProbeTec nucleic acid amplification test in a low prevalence genitourinary medicine clinic
Authors: Killick V , Kell P , Plumb H , Hurd N , Turner P
Published: July 2012

This study evaluated a population with a relatively low prevalence of gonococcal (GC) infection attending a genitourinary (GU) medicine clinic. Nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT) screening was compared with culture. A total of 2004 male urine, 1699 female endocervical and 424 self-taken vulvovaginal swabs were screened using the BD ProbeTec GC NAAT alongside Neisserial culture. ProbeTec-positive samples confirmed by the Gen-Probe Aptima GC NAAT and/or culture positive were deemed to have GC infection. Thirty-three out of 4157 (0.8%) specimens gave a reactive result by BD ProbeTec NAAT. Twenty-two were confirmed by Gen-Probe Aptima NAAT alone (4), culture alone (7) or both (11). Four patients were identified with GC infection who would have been missed by standard culture. No samples were culture positive and ProbeTec NAAT negative. Of 11 unconfirmed reactive samples, five gave low readings and three were contacts of gonorrhoea. Screening for Neisseria gonorrhoeae using NAAT is a viable alternative to culture even in a low-prevalence population.
Factors associated with anxiety disorders among HIV-positive attendees of an HIV clinic in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Olagunju A T , Adeyemi J D , Erinfolami A R , Ogundipe O A
Published: July 2012

Anxiety disorders (ADs) occurring in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA) are often poorly identified in spite of the untold consequences that may result if not diagnosed and treated promptly. This study aimed to describe factors associated with ADs among PLWHA. Three hundred participants were administered sociodemographic/clinical profile questionnaires, and diagnoses of ADs were made using Schedule for Clinical Assessment in Neuropsychiatry (SCAN) based on International Classification of Diseases, 10th edition (ICD-10) criteria. In this study, 65 (21.7%) participants were diagnosed with ADs. A lack of family support, unemployment, younger mean age and being unmarried ( P < 0.05) were factors associated with ADs in PLWHA; however, lack of family support (odds ratio [OR] = 0.458, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.254–0.827, P = 0.010), being unmarried (OR = 1.930, 95% CI = 1.046–3.560, P = 0.035) and unemployment (OR = 0.495, 95% CI = 0.264–0.926, P = 0.028) were the only factors that remained significant following logistic regression analysis. Prompt identification with active management of ADs and their associated factors among PLWHA are advocated. Further research on the risk factors for ADs is also warranted.
Successful treatment of giant condyloma acuminatum with combination retinoid and interferon-γ therapy
Authors: Tian Y P , Yao L , Malla P , Song Y , Li S S
Published: July 2012

Giant condyloma acuminatum, or Buschke–Löwenstein tumour, is a unique variant of anogenital warts. It is characterized by locally aggressive behaviour but rarely metastasizes. Many treatment strategies such as radical surgery, radiation and chemotherapy have been used to treat it but their efficacy is often poor and the recurrence rates are high. We report a case of 16-year-old girl who was treated with oral retinoid combined with intramuscular interferon- γ. All lesions cleared within three months. During a follow-up period of more than two years, no recurrence has developed. This relatively painless, non-scarring treatment may represent a novel therapeutic option.
BASHH Scotland/Scottish HIV and AIDS group national audit 2009–2010: sexual health care for people living with HIV
Authors: Hembrom R , Goodall L , Bateman V , MacDonald R , Syed A , Taylor R , Clutterbuck D J
Published: July 2012

A national Scottish audit of 282 patients with HIV infection attending 11 clinics showed the following levels of performance against quality improvement Scotland Sexual Health Services Standards: syphilis serology was offered in the previous six months to 55% of patients (range: 12–97% of patients in individual clinics), sexual history documented within four weeks of initial HIV diagnosis in 67% (12–100%) and offer of tests for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) documented within four weeks of HIV diagnosis in 45% (4–96%). Considerable variation in performance exists between clinics. The audit prompted interventions to further improve the sexual health care of people living with HIV infection.
Influence of Sports, Physical Education, and Active Commuting to School on Adolescent Weight Status
Authors: Drake Keith M. , Beach Michael L. , Longacre Meghan R. , MacKenzie Todd , Titus Linda J. , Rundle Andrew G. , Dalton Madeline A.
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the associations between weight status and different forms of physical activity among adolescents.

METHODS:

We conducted telephone surveys with 1718 New Hampshire and Vermont high school students and their parents as part of a longitudinal study of adolescent health. We surveyed adolescents about their team sports participation, other extracurricular physical activity, active commuting, physical education, recreational activity for fun, screen time, diet quality, and demographics. Overweight/obesity (BMI for age ≥ 85th percentile) and obesity (BMI for age ≥ 95 percentile) were based on self-reported height and weight.

RESULTS:

Overall, 29.0% (n = 498) of the sample was overweight/obese and 13.0% (n = 223) were obese. After adjustments, sports team participation was inversely related to overweight/obesity (relative risk [RR] = 0.73 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.61, 0.87] for >2 sports teams versus 0) and obesity (RR = 0.61 [95% CI: 0.45, 0.81] for >2 sports teams versus 0). Additionally, active commuting to school was inversely related to obesity (RR = 0.67 [95% CI: 0.45, 0.99] for >3.5 days per week versus 0). Attributable risk estimates suggest obesity prevalence would decrease by 26.1% (95% CI: 9.4%, 42.8%) if all adolescents played on 2 sports teams per year and by 22.1% (95% CI: 0.1%, 43.3%) if all adolescents walked/biked to school at least 4 days per week.

CONCLUSIONS:

Team sport participation had the strongest and most consistent inverse association with weight status. Active commuting to school may reduce the risk of obesity, but not necessarily overweight, and should be studied further. Obesity prevention programs should consider strategies to increase team sport participation among all students.
Prospective Association of Common Eating Disorders and Adverse Outcomes
Authors: Field Alison E. , Sonneville Kendrin R. , Micali Nadia , Crosby Ross D. , Swanson Sonja A. , Laird Nan M. , Treasure Janet , Solmi Francesca , Horton Nicholas J.
Published: July 2012

OBJECTIVE:

Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa (BN) are rare, but eating disorders not otherwise specified (EDNOS) are relatively common among female participants. Our objective was to evaluate whether BN and subtypes of EDNOS are predictive of developing adverse outcomes.

METHODS:

This study comprised a prospective analysis of 8594 female participants from the ongoing Growing Up Today Study. Questionnaires were sent annually from 1996 through 2001, then biennially through 2007 and 2008. Participants who were 9 to 15 years of age in 1996 and completed at least 2 consecutive questionnaires between 1996 and 2008 were included in the analyses. Participants were classified as having BN (≥weekly binge eating and purging), binge eating disorder (BED; ≥weekly binge eating, infrequent purging), purging disorder (PD; ≥weekly purging, infrequent binge eating), other EDNOS (binge eating and/or purging monthly), or nondisordered.

RESULTS:

BN affected ∼1% of adolescent girls; 2% to 3% had PD and another 2% to 3% had BED. Girls with BED were almost twice as likely as their nondisordered peers to become overweight or obese (odds ratio [OR]: 1.9 [95% confidence interval: 1.0–3.5]) or develop high depressive symptoms (OR: 2.3 [95% confidence interval: 1.0–5.0]). Female participants with PD had a significantly increased risk of starting to use drugs (OR: 1.7) and starting to binge drink frequently (OR: 1.8).

CONCLUSIONS:

PD and BED are common and predict a range of adverse outcomes. Primary care clinicians should be made aware of these disorders, which may be underrepresented in eating disorder clinic samples. Efforts to prevent eating disorders should focus on cases of subthreshold severity.
Religion, Disaster, and Colonial Power in the Spanish Philippines in the Sixteenth to Seventeenth Centuries
Authors: Camba Alvin Almendrala
Published: July 2012

In the ?eld of disaster studies, scholars have focused on the social construction of disasters in various historical periods, but they have not attended to the ways in which these social constructions were differentiated within the same period. During the Spanish colonization of the Philippines in the sixteenth to the seventeenth centuries, two types of disaster discourses existed. In ‘internal cases’, where Spanish elites had to deal with one another over issues of distribution of power, decision making capacity, and the allocation of resources, there were multiple and competing constructions of disasters. Conversely, in ‘external cases’, where the Spanish elites had to deal mainly with the ‘other’ (Filipinos) over issues such as colonization and Christianization, there was a convergence in the constructions of disasters, which facilitated conquest and the consolidation of power for the Spanish Crown. The act of interpreting disaster was intimately tied with the legitimation and exercise of power.
Development of Safety Website for the Outside Community
Authors: AS-Saab Khaled M. , Tayeb Ahmed Mohammed
Published: July 2012

Safety is the state of being "safe", the condition of being protected against physical, social, spiritual, financial, political, emotional, occupational, psychological, educational or other types or consequences of failure, damage, error, accidents, harm or any other event which could be considered non-desirable. Safety can also be defined to be the control of recognized hazards to achieve an acceptable level of risk. This can take the form of being protected from the event or from exposure to something that causes health or economical losses. It can include protection of people or of possessions.
Coil Tubing Fill Cleanout and Near-Wellbore Acidizing of Plugged Stand Alone Screens: Highly Successful Campaign in Saudi Arabian Gas Wells
Authors: AlTammar Murtadha J. , Asiri Khalid S. , Al-Driweesh Saad M. , Abulhamayel Nahr M.
Published: July 2012

Gas wells in Field X, south of the giant Ghawar Field, are completed with stand alone screens across a Pre-Khuff sandstone formation as a sand control measure. Although prolific producers, some suffer a severe decline in performance after a period of production, triggering diagnostic work to be performed. Consequently, screen plugging is confirmed and collected samples of present fill are analyzed. Results called for a coil tubing cleanout campaign in order to restore lost productivity. The objective of this paper is to detail the whole operation journey of the fill cleanout jobs that includes fill diagnostic process, assessment of cleanout methods, initial job design, choice of fluids, CT bottomhole assembly tools, execution and field experience, and post-cleanout performance evaluation.

A CT wiper trip method has been implemented with either milling or jetting tools. A newly developed rate-activated circulation valve is deployed to aid in lifting solids at high pumping rates as well as jetting acid across the screen interval after fill removal. The fill cleanout campaign has been very successful in restoring well productivity as compared to pre-cleanout and initial post-drilling well performance. A total of 340 MMSCFD of incremental gas rate were restored to-date from 16 cleanout operations. Unprecedentedly, interesting and valuable findings are shared regarding the nature of fill formed inside and/or above the stand alone screens, recommended milling practices to protect CT bottomhole assembly and minimize CT fatigue, the experience of incorporating acid jetting and squeeze in the CT wiper trip method to stimulate damaged formation pack behind the screens, and the preventive measures taken to cope with the fill accumulation issue.
The New Radiobiology: Returning to Our Roots
Authors: Ulsh Brant A.
Published: July 2012

In 2005, two expert advisory bodies examined the evidence on the effects of low doses of ionizing radiation. The U.S. National Research Council concluded that current scientific evidence is consistent with the linear no-threshold dose-response relationship ( NRCNA 2005 ) while the French National Academies of Science and Medicine concluded the opposite ( Aurengo et al. 2005 ). These contradictory conclusions may stem in part from an emphasis on epidemiological data (a “top down” approach) versus an emphasis on biological mechanisms (a “bottom up” approach). In this paper, the strengths and limitations of the top down and bottom up approaches are discussed, and proposals for strengthening and reconciling them are suggested. The past seven years since these two reports were published have yielded increasing evidence of nonlinear responses of biological systems to low radiation doses delivered at low dose-rates. This growing body of evidence is casting ever more doubt on the extrapolation of risks observed at high doses and dose-rates to estimate risks associated with typical environmental and occupational exposures. This paper compares current evidence on low dose, low dose-rate effects against objective criteria of causation. Finally, some questions for a post-LNT world are posed.
Telescopic generalizations for two 3
F
2-series identities
Authors: Chu Wenchang
Published: July 2012

By combining a telescopic summation formula with Kummer-Thomae-Whipple transformation, we prove two nonterminating 3
F
2(1)-series identities with one of them confirming a conjecture by Milgram (2009) and another one extending a couple of terminating series identities due to Gessel and Stanton (1982).
Unusual Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of N-[2-(Benzothiazol-2-Sulfonyl)-1-Ethoxyethoxy]- 5-(Benzothiazol-2-Ylsulfanyl)Pentanamidine
Authors: Višņevska J. , Jaščenko E. , Šestakova I. , Gulbe A. , Ābele E.
Published: July 2012

Unusual Synthesis and Cytotoxicity of N-[2-(Benzothiazol-2-Sulfonyl)-1-Ethoxyethoxy]- 5-(Benzothiazol-2-Ylsulfanyl)Pentanamidine

Addition of N-hydroxy-5-(benzothiazolylthio)pentanamidine toE-2-(2-chlorovinylsulfonyl)benzothiazole in the presence of NaH was studied. The main product of reaction - N-[2-(benzothiazol-2-sulfonyl)-1-ethoxyethoxy]-5-(benzothiazol-2-ylsulfanyl)pentanamidine exhibits high cytotoxicity.
A LCC Analysis of Rainwater Management Variants
Authors: Słyś Daniel , Stec Agnieszka , Zeleňáková Martina
Published: July 2012

A LCC Analysis of Rainwater Management Variants

The paper presents results of the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) analysis carried out for several variants of rainfall water management in a newly designed multi-family dwelling house. According to the LCC methodology, calculations were performed for the whole undertaking life cycle with both investment outlays and operation/maintenance costs taken into account. The LCC analysis was carried out, in particular, for a variant assuming that the rainwater collected from the roof will be entirely discharged to the sewage system. On the other hand, the second variant provided for replacement of traditional building roof with a green one. Facilities of that type, thanks to their retention properties, may delay runoff of rainwater and reduce the overall quantity of water discharged from roof surface and therefore can be classified as Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems. In the third case considered, rainwater is to be utilised in the building. It was assumed that precipitation water will be stored in a tank and used in the sanitary water supply system for flushing toilets, thus reducing the overall tap water purchase costs.
Preparing Students for Careers in Food-Supply Veterinary Medicine: A Review of Educational Programs in the United States
Authors: Posey R. Daniel , Hoffsis Glen F. , Cullor James S. , Naylor Jonathan M. , Chaddock Michael , Ames Trevor R.
Published: July 2012

The real and/or perceived shortage of veterinarians serving food-supply veterinary medicine has been a topic of considerable discussion for decades. Regardless of this debate, there are issues still facing colleges of veterinary medicine (CVMs) about the best process of educating future food-supply veterinarians. Over the past several years, there have been increasing concerns by some that the needs of food-supply veterinary medicine have not adequately been met through veterinary educational institutions. The food-supply veterinary medical curriculum offered by individual CVMs varies depending on individual curricular design, available resident animal population, available food-animal caseload, faculty, and individual teaching efforts of faculty. All of the institutional members of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) were requested to share their Food Animal Veterinary Career Incentives Programs. The AAVMC asked all member institutions what incentives they used to attract and educate students interested in, or possibly considering, a career in food-supply veterinary medicine (FSVM). The problem arises as to how we continue to educate veterinary students with ever shrinking budgets and how to recruit and retain faculty with expertise to address the needs of society. Several CVMs use innovative training initiatives to help build successful FSVM programs. This article focuses on dairy, beef, and swine food-animal education and does not characterize colleges' educational efforts in poultry and aquaculture. This review highlights the individual strategies used by the CVMs in the United States.
Understanding Veterinary Students' Use of and Attitudes toward the Social Networking Site, Facebook, to Assist in Developing Curricula to Address Online Professionalism
Authors: Coe Jason B. , Weijs Cynthia A. , Muise Amy , Christofides Emily , Desmarais Serge
Published: July 2012

Social media is an increasingly common form of communication, with Facebook being the preferred social-networking site among post-secondary students. Numerous studies suggest post-secondary students practice high self-disclosure on Facebook. Research evaluating veterinary students' use of social media found a notable proportion of student-posted content deemed inappropriate. Lack of discretion in posting content can have significant repercussions for aspiring veterinary professionals, their college of study, and the veterinary profession they represent. Veterinarians-in-training at three veterinary colleges across Canada were surveyed to explore their use of and attitude toward the social networking site, Facebook. Students were invited to complete an online survey with questions relating to their knowledge of privacy in relation to using Facebook, their views on the acceptability of posting certain types of information, and their level of professional accountability online. Linear regression modeling was used to further examine factors related to veterinary students' disclosure of personal information on Facebook. Need for popularity (p<.01) and awareness of consequences (p<.001) were found to be positively and negatively associated, respectively, with students' personal disclosure of information on Facebook. Understanding veterinary students' use of and attitudes toward social media, such as Facebook, reveals a need, and provides a basis, for developing educational programs to address online professionalism. Educators and administrators at veterinary schools may use this information to assist in developing veterinary curricula that addresses the escalating issue of online professionalism.
Paramagnetic Metal—Antiferromagnetic Insulator Transition in π-d System λ-BETS2FeCl4, BETS = Bis(ethylenedithio)tetraselenafulvalene
Authors: Akiba Hiroshi , Shimada Kazuo , Tajima Naoya , Kajita Koji , Nishio Yutaka
Published: July 2012

Quasi-two-dimensional organic conductor λ-BETS2FeCl4 (BETS = bis(ethylenedithio)tetraselenafulvalene) transforms from a paramagnetic metal (PM) to an antiferromagnetic insulator (AFI) at a transition temperature, TMI, of 8.3 K under zero magnetic field. To understand the mechanism of this PM-AFI phase transition, we studied the thermodynamic properties of λ-BETS2FeCl4. We observed, below TMI, a six-level Schottky hump in its specific heat and a broad shoulder in its magnetic susceptibility. Just below the transition temperature TMI, about 80% of 3d spin degree of freedom is sustained. These temperature dependences clarify that π and 3d spins do not cooperatively form the AF order at TMI. In λ-BETS2FexGa1−xCl4 system, the increasing Fe 3d spin density enhances the internal magnetic field caused by π spin antiferromagnetic (AF) ordering, although the 3d spin itself maintains large entropy against the AF ordering. It was confirmed that the Fe 3d spin provided favorable conditions for this mysterious PM-AFI phase transition in the π electron system. We propose that this phase transition originates from the magnetic anisotropy introduced by the π-d interaction, which suppressed the low dimensional fluctuation in the π spin system.
A Unified Building Model for 3D Urban GIS
Authors: El-Mekawy Mohamed , Östman Anders , Hijazi Ihab
Published: July 2012

Several tasks in urban and architectural design are today undertaken in a geospatial context. Building Information Models (BIM) and geospatial technologies offer 3D data models that provide information about buildings and the surrounding environment. The Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) and CityGML are today the two most prominent semantic models for representation of BIM and geospatial models respectively. CityGML has emerged as a standard for modeling city models while IFC has been developed as a reference model for building objects and sites. Current CAD and geospatial software provide tools that allow the conversion of information from one format to the other. These tools are however fairly limited in their capabilities, often resulting in data and information losses in the transformations. This paper describes a new approach for data integration based on a unified building model (UBM) which encapsulates both the CityGML and IFC models, thus avoiding translations between the models and loss of information. To build the UBM, all classes and related concepts were initially collected from both models, overlapping concepts were merged, new objects were created to ensure the capturing of both indoor and outdoor objects, and finally, spatial relationships between the objects were redefined. Unified Modeling Language (UML) notations were used for representing its objects and relationships between them. There are two use-case scenarios, both set in a hospital: “evacuation” and “allocating spaces for patient wards” were developed to validate and test the proposed UBM data model. Based on these two scenarios, four validation queries were defined in order to validate the appropriateness of the proposed unified building model. It has been validated, through the case scenarios and four queries, that the UBM being developed is able to integrate CityGML data as well as IFC data in an apparently seamless way. Constraints and enrichment functions are used for populating empty database tables and fields. The motivation scenarios also show the needs and benefits of having an integrated approach to the modeling of indoor and outdoor spatial features.