bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use ofGarciniaExtract (Hydroxycitric Acid) as a Weight loss Supplement: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomised Clinical Trials
Authors: Onakpoya Igho , Hung Shao Kang , Perry Rachel , Wider Barbara , Ernst Edzard
Published: December 2010

The aim of this systematic review is to examine the efficacy ofGarciniaextract, hydroxycitric acid (HCA) as a weight reduction agent, using data from randomised clinical trials (RCTs). Electronic and nonelectronic searches were conducted to identify relevant articles, with no restrictions in language or time. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the methodological quality of included studies. Twenty-three eligible trials were identified and twelve were included. Nine trials provided data suitable for statistical pooling. The meta-analysis revealed a small, statistically significant difference in weight loss favouring HCA over placebo (MD: −0.88 kg; 95% CI: −1.75, −0.00). Gastrointestinal adverse events were twice as common in the HCA group compared with placebo in one included study. It is concluded that the RCTs suggest thatGarciniaextracts/HCA can cause short-term weight loss. The magnitude of the effect is small, and the clinical relevance is uncertain. Future trials should be more rigorous and better reported.
Quasigauge Spaces with Generalized Quasipseudodistances and Periodic Points of Dissipative Set-Valued Dynamic Systems
Authors: Włodarczyk Kazimierz , Plebaniak Robert
Published: December 2010

In quasigauge spaces, we introduce the families of generalized quasipseudodistances, and we define three kinds of dissipative set-valued dynamic systems with these families of generalized quasi-pseudodistances and with some families of not necessarily lower semicontinuous entropies and next, assuming that quasigauge spaces are left "Equation missing" sequentially complete (but not necessarily Hausdorff), we prove that for each starting point each dynamic process or generalized sequence of iterations of these dissipative set-valued dynamic systems left converges and we also show that if an iterate of these dissipative set-valued dynamic systems is left quasiclosed, then these limit points are periodic points. Examples illustrating ideas, methods, definitions, and results are constructed.
miRNA-7 Attenuation in Schwannoma Tumors Stimulates Growth by Upregulating Three Oncogenic Signaling Pathways
Authors: Saydam Okay , Senol Ozlem , Würdinger Thomas , Mizrak Arda , Ozdener Gokhan Baris , Stemmer-Rachamimov Anat O. , Yi Ming , Stephens Robert M. , Krichevsky Anna M. , Saydam Nurten , Brenner Gary J. , Breakefield Xandra O.
Published: December 2010

Micro RNAs (miRNA) negatively regulate protein-coding genes at the posttranscriptional level and are critical in tumorigenesis. Schwannomas develop from proliferation of dedifferentiated Schwann cells, which normally wrap nerve fibers to help support and insulate nerves. In this study, we carried out high-throughput miRNA expression profiling of human vestibular schwannomas by using an array representing 407 known miRNAs to explore the role of miRNAs in tumor growth. Twelve miRNAs were found to be significantly deregulated in tumor samples as compared with control nerve tissue, defining a schwannoma-typical signature. Among these miRNAs, we focused on miR-7, which was one of the most downregulated in these tumors and has several known oncogene targets, including mRNAs for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and p21-activated kinase 1 (Pak1). We found that overexpression of miR-7 inhibited schwannoma cell growth both in culture and in xenograft tumor models in vivo, which correlated with downregulation of these signaling pathways. Furthermore, we identified a novel direct target of miR-7, the mRNA for associated cdc42 kinase 1 (Ack1), with the expression levels of miR-7 and Ack1 being inversely correlated in human schwannoma samples. These results represent the first miRNA profiling of schwannomas and the first report of a tumor suppressor function for miR-7 in these tumors that is mediated by targeting the EGFR, Pak1, and Ack1 oncogenes. Our findings suggest miR-7 as a potential therapeutic molecule for schwannoma treatment, and they prompt clinical evaluation of drugs that can inhibit the EGFR, Pak1, and Ack1 signaling pathways to treat this tumor type. Cancer Res; 71(3); 852–61. ©2010 AACR.
Bulky DNA Adducts in White Blood Cells: A Pooled Analysis of 3,600 Subjects
Authors: Ricceri Fulvio , Godschalk Roger W. , Peluso Marco , Phillips David H. , Agudo Antonio , Georgiadis Panagiotis , Loft Steffen , Tjonneland Anne , Raaschou-Nielsen Ole , Palli Domenico , Perera Frederica , Vermeulen Roel , Taioli Emanuela , Sram Radim J. , Munnia Armelle , Rosa Fabio , Allione Alessandra , Matullo Giuseppe , Vineis Paolo
Published: December 2010

Background: Bulky DNA adducts are markers of exposure to genotoxic aromatic compounds, which reflect the ability of an individual to metabolically activate carcinogens and to repair DNA damage. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) represent a major class of carcinogens that are capable of forming such adducts. Factors that have been reported to be related to DNA adduct levels include smoking, diet, body mass index (BMI), genetic polymorphisms, the season of collection of biologic material, and air pollutants.

Methods: We pooled 11 studies (3,600 subjects) in which bulky DNA adducts were measured in human white blood cells with similar 32P-postlabeling techniques and for which a similar set of variables was available, including individual data on age, gender, ethnicity, batch, smoking habits, BMI, and season of blood collection, and a limited set of gene variants.

Results: Lowest DNA adduct levels (P = 0.006) were observed in the spring (median = 0.50 adducts per 108 nucleotides), followed by summer (0.64), autumn (0.70), and winter (0.85). The same pattern emerged in multivariate analysis but only among never smokers (P = 0.02). Adduct levels were significantly lower (P = 0.001) in northern Europe (the Netherlands and Denmark; mean = 0.60, median = 0.40) than in southern Europe (Italy, Spain, France, and Greece; mean = 0.79, median = 0.60).

Conclusions: In this large pooled analysis, we have found only weak associations between bulky DNA adducts and exposure variables. Seasonality (with higher adducts levels in winter) and air pollution may partly explain some of the interarea differences (north vs. south Europe), but most inter-area and interindividual variations in adduct levels still remain unexplained.

Impact: Our study describes the largest pooled analysis of bulky DNA adducts so far, showing that interindividual variation is still largely unexplained, though seasonality seems to play a role. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(12); 3174–81. ©2010 AACR.
The Road from Discovery to Clinical Diagnostics: Lessons Learned from the First FDA-ClearedIn VitroDiagnostic Multivariate Index Assay of Proteomic Biomarkers
Authors: Zhang Zhen , Chan Daniel W.
Published: December 2010

Background: After more than a decade of biomarker discovery research using advanced genomic and proteomic technologies, very few biomarkers have been translated into clinical diagnostics for patient care. This has become an urgent issue to be addressed because the continuing funding from both the public and private sources are called into question.

Methods: We use as an example, OVA1, the first in vitro diagnostic multivariate index assay (IVDMIA) of proteomic biomarkers recently cleared by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to describe our experience through the long road from biomarker discovery, to validation, and finally to multi-institutional trial for regulatory approval by the FDA.

Results: We discuss 3 issues that are key bridges in the path of biomarker development to actual clinical diagnostics: 1) to generate sufficient and “portable” evidence in preliminary validation studies to support investment for large-scale validation trials; 2) to carefully and clearly define clinical utility that balances desire for broad applicability and feasibility for completing clinical trials for regulatory approval; and 3) to select/develop assays with analytical performance suitable for clinical deployment.

Conclusions: We learned that the road from biomarker discovery, validation, to clinical diagnostics could be long and winding, and often frustrating. However, we also know that, with the right approaches, at the end of the road, there is a rainbow waiting for us.

Impact: Provide insights and recommendations for the translation of proteomic biomarkers into clinical diagnostics. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(12); 2995–9. ©2010 AACR.
Volumetric Breast Density from Full-Field Digital Mammograms and Its Association with Breast Cancer Risk Factors: A Comparison with a Threshold Method
Authors: Lokate Mariëtte , Kallenberg Michiel G.J. , Karssemeijer Nico , Van den Bosch Maurice A.A.J. , Peeters Petra H.M. , Van Gils Carla H.
Published: December 2010

Introduction: Breast density, a strong breast cancer risk factor, is usually measured on the projected breast area from film screen mammograms. This is far from ideal, as breast thickness and technical characteristics are not taken into account. We investigated whether volumetric density measurements on full-field digital mammography (FFDM) are more strongly related to breast cancer risk factors than measurements with a computer-assisted threshold method.

Methods: Breast density was measured on FFDMs from 370 breast cancer screening participants, using a computer-assisted threshold method and a volumetric method. The distribution of breast cancer risk factors among quintiles of density was compared between both methods. We adjusted for age and body mass index (BMI) with linear regression analysis.

Results: High percent density was strongly related to younger age, lower BMI, nulliparity, late age at first delivery and pre/perimenopausal status, to the same extent with both methods (all P < 0.05). Similarly strong relationships were seen for the absolute dense area but to a lesser extent for absolute dense volume. A larger dense volume was only significantly associated with late age at menopause, use of menopausal hormone therapy, and, in contrast to the other methods, high BMI.

Conclusion: Both methods related equally well to known breast cancer risk factors.

Impact: Despite its alleged higher precision, the volumetric method was not more strongly related to breast cancer risk factors. This is in agreement with other studies. The definitive relationship with breast cancer risk still needs to be investigated. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(12); 3096–105. ©2010 AACR.
Dietary Benzo[a]pyrene Intake from Meat and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Tabatabaei Seyed Mehdi , Heyworth Jane S. , Knuiman Matthew W. , Fritschi Lin
Published: December 2010

Introduction: One possible mechanism for the postulated link between high consumption of meat and colorectal cancer (CRC) is the content of benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) in meat.

Methods: We investigated this association in a population-based case-control study in Western Australia (567 cases and 713 controls). Participants' self-report of meat consumption and lifestyle was used in conjunction with the CHARRED carcinogen database to estimate their BaP intake.

Results: Dietary exposure to BaP from meat consumption was not associated with the risk of CRC.

Conclusions: Our findings do not support the hypothesis that BaP exposure from meat consumption is a risk factor for CRC.

Impact statement: This large-scale case-control study used a detailed meat questionnaire in conjunction with the CHARRED database in a large population with high meat intake but was unable to find any association between intake of BaP and colorectal cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(12); 3182–4. ©2010 AACR.
New Strategies in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Translating Advances in Genomics into Clinical Practice
Authors: Mullighan Charles G.
Published: December 2010

B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) is the most common childhood malignancy and remains a leading cause of death in children and young adults. Current therapeutic approaches involve intensive combination chemotherapy, which fails in up to one quarter of patients. New treatment approaches directed against rational therapeutic targets are required. Recent genomic profiling of ALL has identified several genetic alterations associated with a high risk of treatment failure. Deletion or sequence mutation of the lymphoid transcription factor gene IKZF1 (IKAROS) is associated with a high rate of leukemic relapse, and testing for IKZF1 alterations at diagnosis may aid risk stratification. A subset of B-ALL patients with IKZF1 alterations have a transcriptional profile similar to BCR-ABL1–positive ALL, and these patients commonly have novel rearrangements and mutations resulting in aberrant cytokine receptor signaling and activation of kinase signaling cascades, including rearrangement of CRLF2 and activating mutations of Janus kinases (JAK1 and JAK2). JAK inhibitor therapy is under investigation in children with relapsed and refractory malignancies, including leukemia. Clin Cancer Res; 17(3); 396–400. ©2010 AACR.
Treatment of Patients with Multiple Myeloma: An Overview of Systematic Reviews
Authors: Kumar Ambuj , Galeb Sanja , Djulbegovic Benjamin
Published: December 2010

Individual studies rarely provide definitive answers to questions related to the effects of treatments. Whether the treatment is associated with more good than harm is best answered by considering the totality of evidence on the topic through the methodology of systematic reviews. The objective of this overview is to summarize all existing systematic reviews on treatments in multiple myeloma (MM), which accounts for 14% of new cases of hematological malignancies each year. Therefore, MEDLINE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were systematically searched to identify systematic reviews of interventions. Data were extracted on patients, interventions, control and outcomes. Methodological quality of the systematic reviews was assessed using the AMSTAR assessment tool. Eleven systematic reviews on treatment of MM were included in the overview. Ten addressed seven unique questions and also performed a meta-analysis. One addressed 21 clinical questions related to treatment decisions in myeloma. The quality of systematic reviews varied. The results from the overview show that early treatment does not offer survival benefit. Thalidomide is associated with improved survival when added to standard chemotherapy regimens as induction or maintenance therapy but at the expense of an increased risk of serious adverse events, such as venous thromboembolism. High-dose therapy with single autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplant (AHCT) is associated with superior event-free but not overall survival compared to chemotherapy. Tandem AHCT does not prolong survival but is associated with better event-free survival in comparison to single AHCT. In addition, combination treatment with bisphosphonates reduces pathological vertebral fractures and pain, but does not prolong survival. We found no systematic review evaluating the effects of other novel agents, such as bortezomib or lenalidomide, as single agents or in combinations. Several key clinical questions have been successfully answered by conducting systematic reviews. However, currently many questions of importance for the management of patients with myeloma continue to be dealt with in individual studies instead of synthesized evidence. There is urgent need to perform research synthesis of data related to the effects of novel agents.
Effect of Intramuscular and Intravenous Lidocaine on Propofol Induction Dose
Authors: Kelsaka Ebru , Karakaya Deniz , Baris Sibel , Sarihasan Binnur , Dilek Ahmet
Published: December 2010

Objective: Our purpose was to study whether or not intravenous (IV) administration of lidocaine reduces propofol dose requirement as intramuscular (IM) lidocaine in a placebo-controlled manner. Subjects and Methods: Seventy-five adult patients with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I and II, aged 20–60 years who were scheduled for surgery under general anaesthesia were included in the study. The patients were randomly allocated to 3 groups: IM: intramuscular administration; IV: intravenous administration and C: control. There were 25 patients in each group. The patients in group IM received lidocaine 1.5 mg · kg–1 administered into the deltoid muscle 10 min before anaesthesia induction. In group IV, the patients received IV lidocaine 1.5 mg · kg–1, 2 min before anaesthesia induction. Group C patients served as control group who received only propofol injection. Hypnosis after propofol administration was measured with response to verbal commands. Results: There were no statistical differences between group IM (100.8 ± 26.1 mg) and group IV (110.8 ± 30.1 mg) regarding the induction dose of propofol (p > 0.05). In group C, the required propofol dose (151.2 ± 27.4 mg) for anaesthesia induction was significantly higher than in the other groups (p < 0.001). No side effect was observed in any patients. Conclusion: In this study, both IV and IM lidocaine administration were effective in reducing the hypnotic dose of propofol without any side effects. In addition, IV lidocaine may be more comfortable for awake patients.
Determining Factors That Predict Technique Survival on Peritoneal Dialysis: Application of Regression and Artificial Neural Network Methods
Authors: Tangri Navdeep , Ansell David , Naimark David
Published: December 2010

Background/Aims: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) rates continue to decline worldwide in spite of the increasing number of patients with end-stage renal disease. PD technique failure has been cited as one of the reasons for this decline. The purpose of this study was to compare the factors that predict technique survival using artificial neural network (ANN) and logistic and Cox regression methods. Methods: We used high-quality, prospectively collected data from the United Kingdom Renal Registry and created both ANN and regression models to predict technique survival. Incident PD patients in the UK from 1999 to 2004 were included in the analysis. Technique failure was defined as a change in modality to hemodialysis for a period >30 days. Results: Removal of dialysis center code had a significant effect on the fit and/or predictive performance of all three types of models. In contrast, the effect of demographic data, comorbidity, physical examination and laboratory data varied according to the type of model. Conclusions: PD center significantly impacts PD technique survival. Other putative predictive factors had marginal and/or variable effects. The presence of comorbid conditions and a high body mass index is not consistently associated with increased PD technique failure.
Screening for Depression in Elderly Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Balogun Rasheed A. , Turgut Faruk , Balogun Seki A. , Holroyd Suzanne , Abdel-Rahman Emaad M.
Published: December 2010

Background: Depression is common and associated with increased morbidity and mortality in elderly (≧65 years) hemodialysis patients. Beck’s Depression Inventory (BDI) and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) have been used in different cohorts to screen for depression. Objectives: We aimed to evaluate the 15-item GDS (GDS-15) as such a tool in elderly hemodialysis patients and compare it with BDI, a previously validated tool in younger hemodialysis patients. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Four out-patient hemodialysis units; 1 based in a university hospital and 3 based in the community. Participants: Hemodialysis patients aged 65 years and older. Intervention: Both tools were administered to all participants, and a geriatric psychiatrist blinded to the results evaluated them for depression by the gold standard psychiatric interview. Measurements: The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for both tools were assessed against the psychiatric interview (n = 62). Results: Patients who were depressed according to the psychiatric interview had significantly higher GDS-15 and BDI scores compared to those not depressed (p < 0.01 both). ROC curves showed high predictive accuracy of the GDS-15 and BDI (area under the curve: 0.808 and 0.729) versus the psychiatric interview. The GDS-15 cutoff with the best diagnostic accuracy was 5 with a sensitivity of 63%, specificity of 82%, PPV of 60% and NPV of 83%. The BDI cutoff with the best diagnostic accuracy was 10 with a sensitivity of 68%, specificity of 77%, PPV of 57% and NPV of 85%. Conclusion: These results provide evidence that the GDS-15 shows validity in comparison to a gold standard and can be used to screen for depression in the elderly hemodialysis population.
Proximal Tubule Dysfunction Is Dissociated from Endothelial Dysfunction in Normoalbuminuric Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Petrica Ligia , Petrica Maxim , Vlad Adrian , Jianu Dragos Catalin , Gluhovschi Gheorghe , Ianculescu Calina , Firescu Catalina , Dumitrascu Victor , Giju Sorin , Gluhovschi Cristina , Bob Flaviu , Gadalean Florica , Ursoniu Sorin , Velciov Silvia , Bozdog Gheorghe , Milas Oana
Published: December 2010

Introduction: The aim of our study was to clarify the hypothesis that proximal tubule (PT) dysfunction may be responsible for early diabetic nephropathy (DN), independently of preceding glomerular endothelial dysfunction. The pattern of endothelial dysfunction and its potential variability was evaluated in two vascular beds, the kidney and the brain. Methods: A total of 68 normoalbuminuric type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients were enrolled in a cross-sectional study and the following parameters were assessed: urinary albumin:creatinine ratio (UACR), urinary α1-microglobulin, urinary β2-microglobulin, plasma asymmetric dimethyl-arginine (ADMA), serum creatinine, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), C-reactive protein (CRP), fibrinogen, HbA1c; pulsatility and resistance indices in the internal carotid artery and middle cerebral artery and intima-media thickness (IMT) in the common carotid artery; cerebrovascular reactivity was evaluated through the breath-holding test. Results: Plasma ADMA was increased in 12 patients (17.5%), urinary α1-microglobulin in 19 patients (27.9%) and urinary β2-microglobulin in 16 patients (23.5%). Cerebral hemodynamic indices correlated with plasma ADMA, CRP, fibrinogen, duration of DM, HbA1c and GFR. ADMA correlated with fibrinogen, CRP, HbA1c, duration of DM and GFR. There were no correlations between ADMA and UACR, and urinary α1-/β2-microglobulin. Also, no correlations were found between urinary α1-/β2-microglobulin and UACR, HbA1c, duration of DM and GFR. Conclusion: The increase in urinary α1-/β2-microglobulin precedes the stage of albuminuria. It may be assumed that early DN is related to PT dysfunction. Endothelial dysfunction plays a pivotal role in the brain vasculature, while its involvement in the development of early DN is not conditional on the occurrence of albuminuria.
Defining the Critical Period for Neocortical Neurogenesis after Pediatric Brain Injury
Authors: Covey Matthew V. , Jiang Yuhui , Alli Vamsi V. , Yang Zhengang , Levison Steven W.
Published: December 2010

Pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant and underappreciated societal problem. Whereas many TBI studies have evaluated the mechanisms of cell death after TBI, fewer studies have evaluated the extent to which regeneration is occurring. Here we used a cryoinjury model to damage the somatosensory cortex of rats at postnatal day 6 (P6), P10 and P21. We evaluated the production of new neocortical neurons using a combination of 5-bromo-2-deoxyuridine (BrdU) labeling combined with staining for doublecortin (DCX). BrdU+/DCX+ bipolar cells were observed adjacent to the neocortical lesion, with their processes oriented perpendicular to the pial surface. As the animals aged, both the overall proliferative response as well as the production of neocortical neuroblasts diminished, with P6 animals responding most robustly, P10 animals less strongly, and P21 animals showing a very modest proliferative response and virtually no evidence of neocortical neurogenesis. When BrdU was administered at increasingly delayed intervals after the injury at P6, there was a clear difference in the number of new neuroblasts produced as a function of age, with the greatest number of new neocortical neurons produced between 4 and 7 days after the injury. These studies demonstrate that the immature brain has the capacity to produce neocortical neurons after traumatic injury, but this capacity diminishes as the brain continues to develop. Furthermore, in contrast to moderate hypoxic/ischemic brain damage in the P6 rat, where neurogenesis persists for at least 2 months, the response to cryoinjury is quite different as the neurogenic response diminishes over time.
On Some Novel Aspects of Consanguineous Marriages
Authors: Denic S. , Nagelkerke N. , Agarwal M.M.
Published: December 2010

Consanguineous marriages, often viewed as incestuous and objectionable, are more widespread than commonly perceived. They integrate multiple facets of human adaptation: economic, cultural and genetic. The widely touted explanation for the origin and persistence of consanguinity is that it provides many socioeconomic benefits; however, this view may be too simplistic. The bias against consanguinity may preclude an objective understanding of this sociobiological puzzle. Inbreeding increases the speed of selection of beneficial recessive and co-dominant alleles, e.g. those that protect against diseases. In populations endemic with malaria, the prevalence of consanguineous marriages and the frequency of alleles protective against malaria are both very high. Thus, consanguinity could theoretically increase the relative fitness of a population under specific ecological conditions; sometimes, the overall genetic benefits may exceed genetic costs of inbreeding. We discuss some recent evidence from studies on inbreeding along with the reasons responsible for the mating strategy found in some human populations. We contend that a better appreciation of our inherent biases and potential genetic benefits of inbreeding in specific ecological conditions would help us to appreciate the wider picture of consanguinity.
Diagnostic Yield and Clinical Impact of Capsule Endoscopy in Obscure Gastrointestinal Bleeding during Routine Clinical Practice: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Katsinelos Panagiotis , Chatzimavroudis Grigoris , Terzoudis Sotiris , Patsis Ioannis , Fasoulas Kostas , Katsinelos Taxiarchis , Kokonis George , Zavos Christos , Vasiliadis Themistoklis , Kountouras Jannis
Published: December 2010

Objective: This study assessed the diagnostic yield of capsule endoscopy (CE) and its impact on patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding (OGIB). Subjects and Methods: Between May 2007 and May 2009, 63 patients with OGIB (overt bleeding: 25, and occult blood loss with chronic ferropenic anemia: 38) and normal upper and lower endoscopy were studied by CE. Demographic characteristics, prior diagnostic tests, CE findings, therapeutic interventions, medical treatment and clinical outcomes following CE were evaluated. Results: The overall diagnostic yield was 44.44% of patients and included findings of angiectasia in 11 (17.46%) patients, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs enteropathy in 6 (9.52%) patients, celiac disease in 3 (4.76%) patients, tumors in 2 (3.17%) patients, and a variety of other diagnoses ranging from varices to ulcers (due to congenital afibrinogenemia and amyloidosis). The diagnostic yield was notably higher in overt bleeders (15/25, 60%) compared to occult bleeders (13/38, 34.21%; p = 0.044), and in patients with overt bleeding who had CE within the first 10 days (14/16, 87.5%) after the bleeding episode in comparison to overt bleeders who underwent CE >10 days after the bleeding episode (2/16, 11.1%; p < 0.0001). During follow-up (11.8 ± 7 months), CE findings led to specific therapy that resolved the underlying disease or improved the clinical condition in 45 of 63 patients, thus having a positive clinical impact of 71.43%. Conclusion: CE has a high diagnostic yield and a positive influence on clinical management in a significant proportion of patients with OGIB. These data further support the role of CE in routine clinical practice.
Thrombomodulin and von Willebrand Factor: Relation to Endothelial Dysfunction and Disease Outcome in Children with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Hatzipantelis Emmanouel S. , Athanassiou-Metaxa Miranda , Gombakis Nikolaos , Tzimouli Vaso , Taparkou Anna , Sidi-Fragandrea Vasiliki , Garipidou Vasilia , Papageorgiou Theothotis , Kleta Drosia , Koliouskas Dimitrios E. , Athanasiadou-Piperopoulou Fani
Published: December 2010

The severe endothelial dysfunction in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) can result from the disease itself, from treatment, or from other conditions (e.g. sepsis). The aim of this study was to determine the levels of markers of endothelial activation in children with ALL and to assess their potential prognostic value. Fifty-two children with ALL, 19 children with ALL 1–10 years after the completion of therapy, and 28 healthy children were studied. In children with ALL, there was a significant increase in thrombomodulin (TM) and von Willebrand factor (vWF) levels during the acute phase of the disease and during treatment. Children with an unfavorable outcome had higher levels of TM. In conclusion, severe endothelial dysfunction is present during the acute phase of ALL and during treatment and appears to result from the disease itself. Serum TM and vWF levels might represent additional, but not independent, prognostic markers in childhood ALL.
Cognitive Function and Dialysis Adequacy: No Clear Relationship
Authors: Giang Lena M. , Weiner Daniel E. , Agganis Brian T. , Scott Tammy , Sorensen Eric P. , Tighiouart Hocine , Sarnak Mark J.
Published: December 2010

Background/Aims: Cognitive impairment is common in hemodialysis patients and may be impacted by multiple patient and treatment characteristics. The impact of dialysis dose on cognitive function remains uncertain, particularly in the current era of increased dialysis dose and flux. Methods: We explored the cross-sectional relationship between dialysis adequacy and cognitive function in a cohort of maintenance hemodialysis patients. Adequacy was defined as the average of the 3 most proximate single pool Kt/V assessments. A detailed neurocognitive battery was administered during the 1st hour of dialysis. Multivariable linear regression models were adjusted for age, sex, education, race and other clinical and demographic characteristics. Results: Among 273 patients who underwent cognitive testing, the mean (SD) age was 63 (17) years and the median dialysis duration was 13 months, 47% were woman, 22% were African American, and 48% had diabetes. The mean (SD) Kt/V was 1.51 (0.24). In univariate, parsimonious and multivariable models, there were no significant relationships between decreased cognitive function and lower Kt/V. Conclusion: In contrast to several older studies, there is no association between lower Kt/V and worse cognitive performance in the current era of increased dialysis dose. Future studies should address the longitudinal relationship between adequacy of dialysis and cognitive function to confirm these findings.
Impaired Baroreflex Gain During Pregnancy in Conscious Rats
Authors: Azar Afaf S. , Brooks Virginia L.
Published: December 2010

Pregnancy impairs baroreflex gain, but the mechanism is incompletely understood. To test the hypothesis that reductions in brain insulin contribute, we determined whether pregnant rats exhibit lower cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) insulin concentrations and whether intracerebroventricular infusion of insulin normalizes gain of baroreflex control of heart rate in conscious pregnant rats. CSF insulin was lower in pregnant (68±21 pg/mL) compared to virgin (169±25 pg/mL) rats (
P
<0.05). Pregnancy reduced baroreflex gain (pregnant 2.4±0.2 bpm/mm Hg, virgin 4.6±0.3 bpm/mm Hg;
P
<0.0001) and the maximum heart rate elicited by hypotension (pregnant 455±15 bpm, virgin 507±12 bpm;
P
=0.01). Infusion of insulin (100 μU/min) intracerebroventricularly increased baroreflex gain in pregnant (2.4±0.4 to 3.9±0.5 bpm/mm Hg;
P
<0.01) but not virgin (4.6±0.4 to 4.2±0.4 bpm/mm Hg; NS) rats. Maximum heart rate was not altered by intracerebroventricular insulin in either group. Interestingly, while in pregnant rats the baroreflex was unchanged by intracerebroventricular infusion of the artificial CSF vehicle, in virgin rats, vehicle infusion lowered baroreflex gain (4.7±0.3 to 3.9±0.3 bpm/mm Hg;
P
<0.05) and the maximum baroreflex heart rate (495±19 to 444±21 bpm;
P
<0.05). These data support the hypothesis that brain insulin is required to support optimal baroreflex function and that a decrease in brain insulin contributes to the fall in baroreflex gain during pregnancy.
C-Reactive Protein Makes Human Endothelium Stiff and Tight
Authors: Kusche-Vihrog Kristina , Urbanova Katarina , Blanqué Anja , Wilhelmi Marianne , Schillers Hermann , Kliche Katrin , Pavenstädt Hermann , Brand Eva , Oberleithner Hans
Published: December 2010

Elevation of C-reactive protein (CRP) in human blood accompanies inflammatory processes, including cardiovascular diseases. There is increasing evidence that the acute-phase reactant CRP is not only a passive marker protein for systemic inflammation but also affects the vascular system. Further, CRP is an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis and the development of hypertension. Another crucial player in atherosclerotic processes is the mineralocorticoid hormone aldosterone. Even in low physiological concentrations, it stimulates the expression and membrane insertion of the epithelial sodium channel, thereby increasing the mechanical stiffness of endothelial cells. This contributes to the progression of endothelial dysfunction. In the present study, the hypothesis was tested that the acute application of CRP (25 mg/L), in presence of aldosterone (0.5 nmol/L; 24 hour incubation), modifies the mechanical stiffness and permeability of the endothelium. We found that endothelial cells stiffen in response to CRP. In parallel, endothelial epithelial sodium channel is inserted into the plasma membrane, while, surprisingly, the endothelial permeability decreases. CRP actions are prevented either by the inhibition of the intracellular aldosterone receptors using spironolactone (5 nmol/L) or by the inactivation of epithelial sodium channel using specific blockers. In contrast, inhibition of the release of the vasodilating gas nitric oxide via blockade of the phosphoinositide 3-kinase/Akt pathway has no effect on the CRP-induced stiffening of endothelial cells. The data indicate that CRP enhances the effects of aldosterone on the mechanical properties of the endothelium. Thus, CRP could counteract any decrease in arterial blood pressure that accompanies severe acute inflammatory processes.
Convective Boundary Layers Driven by Nonstationary Surface Heat Fluxes
Authors: van Driel Robert , Jonker Harm J. J.
Published: December 2010

In this study the response of dry convective boundary layers to nonstationary surface heat fluxes is systematically investigated. This is relevant not only during sunset and sunrise but also, for example, when clouds modulate incoming solar radiation. Because the time scale of the associated change in surface heat fluxes may differ from case to case, the authors consider the generic situation of oscillatory surface heat fluxes with different frequencies and amplitudes and study the response of the boundary layer in terms of transfer functions. To this end both a mixed layer model (MLM) and a large-eddy simulation (LES) model are used; the latter is used to evaluate the predictive quality of the mixed layer model. The mixed layer model performs generally quite well for slow changes in the surface heat flux and provides analytical understanding of the transfer characteristics of the boundary layer such as amplitude and phase lag. For rapidly changing surface fluxes (i.e., changes within a time frame comparable to the large eddy turnover time), it proves important to account for the time it takes for the information to travel from the surface to higher levels of the boundary layer such as the inversion zone. As a follow-up to a 1997 study by Sorbjan, who showed that the conventional convective velocity scale is inadequate as a scaling quantity during the decay phase, this paper addresses the issue of defining, in (generic) transitional situations, a velocity scale that is solely based on the surface heat flux and its history.
Atlantic Hurricane Season of 2009
Authors: Berg Robert J. , Avila Lixion A.
Published: December 2010

The 2009 Atlantic season was marked by below-average tropical cyclone activity with the formation of nine tropical storms, the fewest since the 1997 Atlantic hurricane season. Of these, three became hurricanes and two strengthened into major hurricanes (category 3 or higher on the Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale). In addition, there were two tropical depressions that did not reach storm strength. The numbers of tropical storms and hurricanes were below the long-term averages of 11 named storms and 6 hurricanes, although the number of major hurricanes equaled the long-term average of 2. Many of the cyclones remained relatively weak. Only one tropical cyclone, Tropical Storm Claudette, made landfall in the United States, although Ida affected the northern Gulf Coast as a tropical storm before moving inland as an extratropical cyclone. Hurricane Bill and Tropical Storm Danny indirectly affected the East Coast by producing high surf, rip currents, and beach erosion; Bill also produced tropical storm conditions over Bermuda and parts of Atlantic Canada. Hurricane Ida made landfall in Nicaragua and also affected parts of Honduras, the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, and western Cuba. Tropical Storm Erika had minor effects on the northern Leeward Islands, mainly in the form of light rain, and Tropical Storm Grace moved through the Azores with little impact. The death toll from the 2009 Atlantic tropical cyclones was six.

A verification of National Hurricane Center official forecasts during 2009 is also presented. Official track errors and forecast skill set records for accuracy at lead times between 24 and 72 h. Official intensity forecast errors were mostly larger than the previous 5-yr means, although intensity forecast skill was at or above historical highs since the intensity skill baseline [i.e., Decay-Statistical Hurricane Intensity Forecast model version 5 (Decay-SHIFOR5)] errors were well above average.
Understanding Gang Membership and Crime Victimization Among Jail Inmates
Authors: Fox Kathleen A. , Lane Jodi , Akers Ronald L.
Published: December 2010

Although previous research has examined factors related to gang membership and offending, research on the relationship between gangs and victimization is limited. The present study builds on previous research and examines gang membership, victimization, and self-control among 2,414 jail inmates. Results from self-report surveys indicate that gang members are more likely than nonmembers to be victimized by property and personal crimes. Among nongang members, those with lower self-control are more likely to be victimized by property and personal crime. Among gang members, lower self-control is associated with personal crime victimization whereas higher self-control is related to property crime victimization. Overall, gang members are victimized more than nongang members, and self-control is an important factor for victimization among gang and nongang members.
The Socio-spatial Restructuring of Łódź, Poland
Authors: Marcińczak Szymon , Sagan Iwona
Published: December 2010

Most of the research on urban change in the formerly centrally planned countries has focused on the more prosperous capital cities of Warsaw, Prague, Berlin, Budapest and Tallinn. Thus, our understanding of on-going urban transformations in this part of the world is skewed towards a handful of urban areas. This paper takes a different approach by studying the post-socialist transformations of the socio-spatial structure of a second-tier city, based on data from Łódź, Poland. The results reveal the socio-spatial restructuring of Łódź at both the macro and micro levels. Most importantly, despite being organised at a wider scale by stable social areas, at the micro level there are dynamic processes of socio-spatial segregation throughout the city that contribute to the fine-grained fragmentation of social space. From an empirical perspective, this means that either a stable structure or growing fragmentation can be identified, depending on the scale of analysis.
Modelling Price Movements in Housing Micro Markets
Authors: Wilson Patrick , White Michael , Dunse Neil , Cheong Chee , Zurbruegg Ralf
Published: December 2010

This study identifies housing sub-markets (micro markets) that may be price leaders within local housing market areas and relates their performance to potentially relevant economic factors. This can be important as it provides both policy-makers and market players with a useful barometer regarding housing market behaviour. The study uses cointegration analysis to find those markets that interact with each other over the long run and isolates housing sub-markets that are not influenced by housing market behaviour elsewhere in the local urban economy. The study lays the basis for research aimed at identifying whether different housing markets respond to the same or to different economic stimuli. The research is likely to be of interest to policy-makers (such as town planners) as well as to developers and lending institutions.
Molecular Carcinogenesis of Canine Mammary Tumors
Authors: Klopfleisch R. , von Euler H. , Sarli G. , Pinho S. S. , Gärtner F. , Gruber A. D.
Published: December 2010

Studies focusing on the molecular basis of canine mammary tumors (CMT) have long been hampered by limited numbers of molecular tools specific to the canine species. The lack of molecular information for CMT has impeded the identification of clinically relevant tumor markers beyond histopathology and the introduction of new therapeutic concepts. Additionally, the potential use for the dog as a model for human breast cancer is debatable until questions are answered regarding cellular origin, mechanisms, and cellular pathways. During the past years, increasing numbers of canine molecular tools have been developed on the genomic, RNA, and protein levels, and an increasing number of studies have shed light on specific aspects of canine carcinogenesis, particularly of the mammary gland. This review summarizes current knowledge on the molecular carcinogenesis of CMT, including the role of specific oncogenes, tumor suppressors, regulators of apoptosis and DNA repair, proliferation indices, adhesion molecules, circulating tumor cells, and mediators of angiogenesis in CMT progression and clinical behavior. Whereas the data available are far from complete, knowledge of molecular pathways has a significant potential to complement and refine the current diagnostic and therapeutic approach to this tumor type. Furthermore, current data show that significant similarities and differences exist between canine and human mammary tumors at the molecular level. Clearly, this is only the beginning of an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of CMT and their application in clinical patient management.
Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis Associated With Sporobolomyces roseus in a Dog
Authors: Saey V. , Vanhaesebrouck A. , Maes S. , Simaey L. Van , Van Ham L. , Deschaght P. , Ducatelle R.
Published: December 2010

A German Shepherd Dog was evaluated for clinical signs of multifocal, progressive brain disease. Despite supportive care, the dog died shortly after hospital admission. Granulomatous meningoencephalitis with intralesional fungal hyphae was diagnosed postmortem. The fungus was identified as Sporobolomyces roseus by polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing of the ITS2 region.
Power and Authenticity: Moving From the Classroom to the Museum
Authors: Kenkmann Andrea
Published: December 2010

It is well known that the spatial environment has an impact on people’s learning. The author takes her language classes to an art museum to use the exhibits as stimulants for target language communication. This article prov ides a theoretical exploration of some of the underlying concepts that are affected by spatial shifts. It is argued that space is interconnected to power and authenticity and that we need to analyze this threefold structure in order to understand how learners and educators experience spatial shifts.
How Farmers Learn About Environmental Issues
Authors: Vandenabeele Joke , Wildemeersch Danny
Published: December 2010

At the time of this research, protests of farmers against new environmental policy measures received much media attention. News reports suggested that farmers’ organizations rejected the idea that modern farming techniques cause damage to the environment and even tried to undermine attempts to reconcile the goals of modern agriculture with environmental objectives. In this article, the authors focus on how farmers learn to connect to various narratives about the issues at stake and on how these narratives are constructed through everyday encounters within the diverse networks to which farmers belong. As this article demonstrates, of particular interest for researchers is the kind of learning that occurs in response to differences in opinion. Accordingly, the authors introduce a new metaphor, called “learning as response,” which helps understand how farmers may learn, again and again, to respond “as singular beings” to the ambiguities and differences they encounter in their everyday professional life.
Future Money-Related Worries Among Adolescents After Divorce
Authors: Silverberg Koerner Susan , Korn Marcella , Peltz Dennison Renée , Witthoft Sara
Published: December 2010

The present research examined adolescents’ views of their future with respect to money and financial well-being via an open-ended question and inductive content analysis. The participants were adolescents ( N = 255) whose parents were divorced between 5 and 24 months at the time of data collection. The most common worries pertained to (a) being poor/struggling for the necessities of life, (b) attaining/maintaining a high quality of life, (c) job-related matters, (d) (in)ability to care for future family or parents, (e) educational expenses, (f) negative interpersonal consequences, and (g) managing money. Gender, age, and family income differences in financial worries were also examined. The present study fills a surprising gap in the literature and should aid those professionals who work directly with teens, especially those who have experienced parental divorce.
Dissemination practices in the Spanish research system: scientists trapped in a golden cage
Authors: Torres-Albero Cristóbal , Fernández-Esquinas Manuel , Rey-Rocha Jesús , Martín-Sempere María José
Published: December 2010

The aim of this paper is twofold. On the one hand, it offers a systematic analysis of the data available regarding Spanish scientists’ dissemination activities; on the other, it seeks to shed light on their behaviour and motivations. To do this, we consider the context of Spanish society and the conditions affecting the work and professional promotion of scientists. We present evidence from two surveys of CSIC researchers and of participants in Spain’s main science fair, with the caveat that the data were obtained in a methodologically favourable scenario. A contrast exists between scientists’ vocation to disseminate and the limitations derived from a low degree of interest in science in Spanish society, together with professional promotion policies that do not give priority to dissemination activities. This leads us to conclude that Spanish scientists are trapped between dissemination activities governed by moral values and a scarcely favourable social and professional context.