bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Dietary Supplements Into Cancer Care
Authors: Frenkel Moshe , Abrams Donald I. , Ladas Elena J. , Deng Gary , Hardy Mary , Capodice Jillian L. , Winegardner Mary F. , Gubili J. K. , Yeung K. Simon , Kussmann Heidi , Block Keith I.
Published: February 2013

Many studies confirm that a majority of patients undergoing cancer therapy use self-selected forms of complementary therapies, mainly dietary supplements. Unfortunately, patients often do not report their use of supplements to their providers. The failure of physicians to communicate effectively with patients on this use may result in a loss of trust within the therapeutic relationship and in the selection by patients of harmful, useless, or ineffective and costly nonconventional therapies when effective integrative interventions may exist. Poor communication may also lead to diminishment of patient autonomy and self-efficacy and thereby interfere with the healing response. To be open to the patient’s perspective, and sensitive to his or her need for autonomy and empowerment, physicians may need a shift in their own perspectives. Perhaps the optimal approach is to discuss both the facts and the uncertainty with the patient, in order to reach a mutually informed decision. Today’s informed patients truly value physicians who appreciate them as equal participants in making their own health care choices. To reach a mutually informed decision about the use of these supplements, the Clinical Practice Committee of The Society of Integrative Oncology undertook the challenge of providing basic information to physicians who wish to discuss these issues with their patients. A list of leading supplements that have the best suggestions of benefit was constructed by leading researchers and clinicians who have experience in using these supplements. This list includes curcumin, glutamine, vitamin D, Maitake mushrooms, fish oil, green tea, milk thistle, Astragalus, melatonin, and probiotics. The list includes basic information on each supplement, such as evidence on effectiveness and clinical trials, adverse effects, and interactions with medications. The information was constructed to provide an up-to-date base of knowledge, so that physicians and other health care providers would be aware of the supplements and be able to discuss realistic expectations and potential benefits and risks.
Black Cohosh and Breast Cancer
Authors: Fritz Heidi , Seely Dugald , McGowan Jessie , Skidmore Becky , Fernandes Rochelle , Kennedy Deborah A. , Cooley Kieran , Wong Raimond , Sagar Stephen , Balneaves Lynda G. , Fergusson Dean
Published: February 2013

Background. Many women use black cohosh as a natural treatment for menopausal symptoms. However, controversy exists around safety in breast cancer, because of its purported estrogenic activity. We conducted a systematic review of black cohosh use in women with or at risk of breast cancer. Methods. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and AMED from inception to July 2012 and October 2012 for human interventional or observational data pertaining to the safety and efficacy of black cohosh in patients with or at risk of breast cancer, including an assessment of the effect of black cohosh on estrogen responsive tissues. Results. Of 450 records, we included 26 articles: 14 randomized controlled trials, 7 uncontrolled trials, and 5 observational studies.The evidence on efficacy for ho t flashes is divided, with some benefits seen when compared with baseline, but not when compared with placebo. Two observational studies found no association between black cohosh and risk of breast cancer, whereas 2 studies reported significant reductions in risk of primary breast cancer among postmenopausal women (adjusted odds ratio = 0.47, 95% confidence interval = 0.27-0.82), and risk of recurrence (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.75, 95% confidence interval = 0.63-0.89). Seventeen trials showed no significant impact on circulating hormone levels or proliferation in estrogen responsive tissues. Conclusions. Current evidence does not support an association between black cohosh and increased risk of breast cancer. There is a lack of evidence supporting the efficacy of black cohosh for reduction of hot flashes in breast cancer patients. Given conflicting but promising results, and apparent safety, further research is warranted.
Neuromodulation of Cancer Pain
Authors: Prinsloo Sarah , Gabel Stephanie , Lyle Randall , Cohen Lorenzo
Published: February 2013

Managing cancer-related chronic pain is challenging to health care professionals as well as cancer patients and survivors. The management of cancer-related pain has largely consisted of pharmacological treatments, which has caused researchers to focus on neurotransmitter activity as a mediator of patients’ perception of pain rather than the electrical activity during neurobiological processes of cancer-related pain. Consequently, brain-based pain treatment has focused mainly on neurotransmitters and not electrical neuromodulation. Neuroimaging research has revealed that brain activity is associated with patients’ perceptions of symptoms across various diagnoses. The brain modulates internally generated neural activity and adjusts perceptions according to sensory input from the peripheral nervous system. Cancer-related pain may result not only from changes in the peripheral nervous system but also from changes in cortical activity over time. Thus, cortical reorganization by way of the brain’s natural, plastic ability (neuroplasticity) may be used to manage pain symptoms. Physical and psychological distress could be modulated by giving patients tools to regulate neural activity in symptom-specific regions of interest. Initial research in nononcology populations suggests that encouraging neuroplasticity through a learning paradigm can be a useful technique to help treat chronic pain. Here we review evidence that indicates a measurable link between brain activity and patient-reported psychological and physical distress. We also summarize findings regarding both the neuroelectrical and neuroanatomical experience of symptoms, review research examining the mechanisms of the brain’s ability to modify its own activity, and propose a brain-computer interface as a learning paradigm to augment neuroplasticity for pain management.
Benzopyrene Serum Concentration After Endovenous Laser Ablation of the Great Saphenous Vein
Authors: Klem T.M.A.L. , Stok M. , Grotenhuis B.A. , Faber M.J. , Leeuwen S.P.J. van , Janssen H. , Vrijland W.W.
Published: February 2013

Background:

During endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) of the great saphenous vein, patients often involuntarily mention an uncomfortable “burnt” smell and taste. When applying intense heat to proteins and carbohydrates, it is inevitable that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are formed. This group of PAH includes the human carcinogen benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P). This study determined the serum concentration of B[a]P just before and after EVLA.

Methods:

A total of 20 patients were included. The B[a]P serum concentration was determined just before and directly after EVLA.

Results:

In 18 patients, B[a]P was determined before and after EVLA. In 2 patients, EVLA was not possible. In this study, no elevated serum concentration of B[a]P was found before and after EVLA.

Conclusion:

It remains to be established which heat products cause the burnt smell and taste sensation in patients during EVLA. Further research is needed to determine whether EVLA can be considered as a safe procedure.
A state of the art review of solar walls: Concepts and applications
Authors: Saadatian Omidreza , Lim Chin Haw , Sopian Kamaruzzaman , Salleh Elias
Published: February 2013

Sustainable energy system design offers credible and innovative strategies to overcome environmental energy crises. Solar walls offer feasible technique for the exploitation of directional flow of heat in buildings. This article reviewed state-of-the-art concepts, applications and significance of solar walls for energy savings in buildings. Detailed operational framework of various solar-wall configurations, technology and efficiency as building component was discussed. Need for this sustainable energy design in buildings and constraints associated with their realisation were reported to aid proposed future research work.
Radioiodination of an endotoxin·MD-2 complex generates a novel sensitive, high-affinity ligand for TLR4
Authors: Teghanemt Athmane , Weiss Jerrold P , Gioannini Theresa L
Published: February 2013

A purified complex of metabolically labeled [3H]lipooligosaccharide (LOS) and recombinant human myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD-2), [3H]LOS·MD-2, has been used to demonstrate pM affinity binding interactions with soluble TLR4 ectodomain (TLR4ecd). For measurement of the binding parameters of membrane-bound TLR4, we took advantage of the stability of endotoxin·MD-2 and tyrosine(s) present on the surface of MD-2 to radioiodinate LOS·MD-2. Radioiodinated LOS·MD-2 generated a reagent with an estimated 1:1 molar ratio of [125I] to sMD-2 with 20-fold higher specific radioactivity and TLR4-activating properties comparable to metabolically-labeled LOS·MD-2. LOS·MD-2[125I] and [3H]LOS·MD-2 have similar affinities for soluble FLAG TLR4ecd and for membrane-bound TLR4 in HEK293T/TLR4 cells. In a similar dose-dependent manner, sMD-2 and LOS·MD-2 inhibit LOS·MD-2[125I] binding to TLR4 indicating the pM affinity binding of LOS·MD-2[125I] is agonist-independent. LOS·MD-2[125I] allowed measurement of low levels of cell-surface human or murine TLR4 expressed by stable cell lines (2000–3000 sites/cell) and quantitatively measures low levels of ‘MD-2-free’ TLR4 (est. 250 molecules/cell) in cells co-expressing TLR4 and MD-2. Occupation of 50–100 TLR4/cell by LOS·MD-2 is sufficient to trigger measurable TLR4-dependent cell activation. LOS·MD-2[125I] provides a powerful reagent to measure quantitatively functional human and murine cell-surface TLR4, including in cells where surface TLR4 is potentially functionally significant but not detectable by other methods.
Early life influences on the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Stocks Janet , Sonnappa Samatha
Published: February 2013

There is increasing evidence that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is not simply a disease of old age that is largely restricted to heavy smokers, but may be associated with insults to the developing lung during foetal life and the first few years of postnatal life, when lung growth and development are rapid. A better understanding of the long-term effects of early life factors, such as intrauterine growth restriction, prenatal and postnatal exposure to tobacco smoke and other pollutants, preterm delivery and childhood respiratory illnesses, on the subsequent development of chronic respiratory disease is imperative if appropriate preventive and management strategies to reduce the burden of COPD are to be developed. The extent to which insults to the developing lung are associated with increased risk of COPD in later life depends on the underlying cause, timing and severity of such derangements. Suboptimal conditions in utero result in aberrations of lung development such that affected individuals are born with reduced lung function, which tends to remain diminished throughout life, thereby increasing the risk both of wheezing disorders during childhood and subsequent COPD in genetically susceptible individuals. If the current trend towards the ever-increasing incidence of COPD is to be reversed, it is essential to minimize risks to the developing lung by improvements in antenatal and neonatal care, and to reduce prenatal and postnatal exposures to environmental pollutants, including passive tobacco smoke. Furthermore, adult physicians need to recognize that lung disease is potentially associated with early life insults and provide better education regarding diet, exercise and avoidance of smoking to preserve precious reserves of lung function in susceptible adults. This review focuses on factors that adversely influence lung development in utero and during the first 5 years of life, thereby predisposing to subsequent COPD.
Analysis of referral pathways in patients diagnosed with urological cancer
Authors: Somov P , Irwin P
Published: February 2013

Objective:

To compare the clinical pathways of patients referred under the two-week rule (2WR) with those referred in a standard manner and subsequently diagnosed as having urological cancer.

Patients and methods:

A retrospective case note review was undertaken of 209 patients coded as having urological cancer over a six-month period. Patients that were not referred through either pathway, who had no symptoms or signs suspicious of cancer or who did not have a newly-diagnosed cancer during this period were excluded. The dates of relevant clinical events within each patient pathway were recorded and compared (e.g. dates of referral, first clinic appointment, diagnosis and first treatment).

Results:

Of the 209 cases reviewed, 58 cases were excluded. Eighty-two cases were referred through the standard referral pathway and 69 by the 2WR. Overall, patients referred through the 2WR pathway were seen sooner, had their cancer diagnosed earlier and received treatment more quickly than those referred through the standard route. However, the delay between diagnosis and treatment was similar for both groups. Prostate cancer accounted for two thirds of diagnoses, with 54% of 2WR referrals having advanced disease and 66% of cases with localised disease being referred by the standard route.

Conclusion:

The 2WR accelerates all clinical event times but with little clinical advantage to the patient. The 2WR for suspected cancer should be abandoned in favour of retention of the existing 18-week standard for the commencement of treatment following referral.
The need for a post-operative thromboembolic event registry? A five-year retrospective tertiary institution study of venothromboembolic events within 30 days of major urological surgery
Authors: O’Kelly F , Hennessey D , Thomas AZ , Cullen IM , Walsh B , Smyth LG , McDermott TED , Grainger R , Lynch TH
Published: February 2013

Background:

Recent evidence has suggested that the use of extended (≤ 28 ± seven days) post-operative low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) therapy following major abdominal/pelvic surgery can significantly reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). However, there is still significant discordance as to optimal LMWH duration among general and urological surgeons. There is marked variation over prescribing practices within urological surgery, and prospective studies have not reached a consensus. We aimed to determine if there was a significant prevalence of symptomatic thromboembolic events post-major urological surgery.

Materials and methods:

A five-year retrospective audit of major urological cases undertaken in our institution sought to examine the number of vascular complications encountered within 30 ± seven days of surgery by patients on standard thromboprophylactic therapy.

Results:

A total of 439 major surgical cases were carried out, of which 79% were oncological. Ninety-three per cent of patients had at least one cardiovascular disease risk factor. There was one post-operative clinically evident DVT (0.22%) and no PEs in this cohort.

Conclusion:

Our results suggest that symptomatic thromboembolic events post-major urological surgery may be infrequent. However, there is the need for a comprehensive multi-centre prospective study to examine for thromboembolic events post-discharge. As such, we must recommend careful patient selection in determining who would benefit from extended thromboprophylaxis.
Urinary retention following transperineal template prostate biopsy – study of risk factors
Authors: Willis Susan , Bott Simon , Montgomery Bruce
Published: February 2013

Background:

As greater numbers of transperineal template prostate biopsies (TTPBs) are being performed, we have noticed that a considerable number of patients experience urinary retention post-procedure. We wanted to quantify this, and to examine factors that might predict which patients will experience retention.

Patients and methods:

Data analysis was performed on a prospectively maintained database on 93 consecutive patients undergoing template prostate biopsy over a 12-month period.

Results:

Mean patient age was 66 years (range 46–79). Mean prostate-specific antigen (PSA) was 8.34 ng/ml (1–31), mean transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) volume 51 cc (10–133) and mean number of cores 52 (11–84). Twenty-five patients had muscle relaxant as part of their anaesthetic (27%). Fifteen patients had haematuria immediately post-procedure (16%). Twenty-six procedures were performed by a urology trainee (28%). Sixteen patients experienced retention post-template biopsy (17%). Their mean age was 67 years, mean PSA 8.9 ng/ml, mean TRUS volume 68 cc and mean number of cores 58. Of the retention group, 10 patients had muscle relaxant (63%), one patient had haematuria (6%) and four procedures were performed by a trainee (25%). Factors that significantly correlated with retention were TRUS volume ( r = 0.36, p = 0.0004) and the use of muscle relaxant ( r = 0.37, p = 0.0003). Age, PSA, number of cores taken, haematuria post-biopsy, and intra-operative furosemide, paracetamol, diclofenac, morphine and dexamethasone were not correlated with retention ( p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Patients with higher TRUS volumes are at increased risk of retention post-TTPB and should be counselled accordingly. Due to anti-muscarinic effects, muscle relaxants should not be used.
Persistent and recurrent stress urinary incontinence following mid-urethral tape surgery in women: a UK perspective
Authors: Mohammed Aza , Maguire Turlough , Biers Suzanne , Terry Tim R
Published: February 2013

Stress urinary incontinence is a common health problem that affects a large proportion of women in Britain. It poses physical and psychological implications for the affected women and is a frequent indication for referral to tertiary urology centres. Midurethral tape surgery (MUTS) has established itself as the standard first-line surgical treatment as a result of its low morbidity, short hospital stay and high long-term success. Failure of the initial surgery can present as persistent or recurrent symptoms. This is a major challenge to the treating urologists as a result of the complicated nature of the condition and the lack of strong evidence supporting individual treatment modalities. In this article we discuss the factors associated with MUTS failure and the surgical options for its treatment.
Metastatic Crohn’s disease involving the foreskin – a case report and literature review
Authors: Fernando AS , Rattan R , Bott SRJ
Published: February 2013

Metastatic cutaneous Crohn’s (MCC) disease of the foreskin is a rare condition. We describe the clinical and histopathological findings of a case of penile MCC, and present a review of the literature on this subject.
Fifth Toe Deformities
Authors: Talusan Paul G. , Milewski Matthew D. , Reach John S.
Published: February 2013

Overlapping fifth toe is thought to be a congenital deformity characterized by the proximal phalanx dorsally subluxating and adducting on the fifth metatarsophalangeal joint. Overlapping fifth toes may present as asymptomatic figments of parental concern, but not infrequently this deformity may be painful and disabling in both the pediatric and adult population. Pediatric overlapping fifth toe often corrects with normal ambulation and physicians only need to intervene if symptomatic deformity persists. Nonoperative optimization with strapping, splinting, and shoe modification would be reasonable first-line treatments. Surgical intervention including osteoclysis, percutaneous tenotomy, capsulotomy, syndacilization, tissue rearrangements, tendon transfers, phalangectomy, and toe amputation are indicated only after optimization of less invasive measures. Underlapping fifth toe (or “curly” toe) deformity is also felt to be congenital. In most cases, underlapping fifth toes are noticed by parents and family members early in infancy. The proximal phalanx in underlapping toes is typically in varus at the metatarsophalangeal joint with flexion. It is not uncommon for a rotational malalignment to be present (supination/pronation) as judged by the nailbeds. Similar to overlapping toes, pediatric underlappers commonly correct with reassurance and benign neglect up to age 6. Intervention is warranted in the setting of persistent pain and footwear difficulty. Accommodative shoes, absorbing cushions, and functional modification are the mainstays of nonoperative management. Operative intervention may consist of osteoclysis, percutaneous flexor tenotomy, capsulotomy, tissue rearrangements, tendon transfers, removal of symptomatic spurs, osteotomies, and amputation. After exhaustive review of the published literature, it is clear that fifth toe deformities (whether overlapping or underlapping) have not been extensively studied. No gold standard approach exists in treatment. Prospective research using larger numbers of patients with detailed outcome metrics are needed. Surgeons should carefully tailor surgical intervention to patient specific pathology.

Levels of Evidence: Expert Opinion, Level V
Calcium and Vitamin D Intake of Boys Who Have Autism
Authors: Williams-Hooker Ruth , George E. Olusegun , Levy Marian , Morgan Christin , Smith Terra L. , Bittle Joyce B.
Published: February 2013

Objective. To determine the calcium and vitamin D intake of boys with autism ages 7 to 12 years and to compare these intakes with the dietary reference intake (DRI). Design. This study is a cross-sectional design using data obtained from a validated Food Frequency Questionnaire that assesses daily calcium and vitamin D intake. Subjects. Subjects were recruited through the Autism Society of America. Forty-seven parents or caretakers of eligible subjects were included. Twenty-two of the subjects were boys with autism ages 7 to 8, and 25 of the subjects were boys with autism ages 9 to 12. Results. Seventeen out of 22 boys with autism ages 7 to 8 consumed significantly less calcium ( P = .0085) and vitamin D ( P = .0085) than the age-appropriate DRI. Twenty-three out of 25 boys with autism ages 9 to 12 consumed significantly less calcium than the DRI levels ( P = .0001). Twenty-one out of 25 boys with autism ages 9 to 12 also consumed significantly less vitamin D than the age-appropriate DRI levels ( P = .0045). Conclusion. Boys with autism ages 7 to 12 may be at higher risk for calcium and vitamin D deficiencies. These children would likely benefit from the services of a registered dietitian to prevent clinical manifestations of such deficiencies.
Systems that prevent unwanted represcription of drugs withdrawn because of adverse drug events: a systematic review
Authors: van der Linden Carolien M.J. , Jansen Paul A.F. , Grouls René J.E. , van Marum Rob J. , Verberne Marianne A.J.W. , Aussems Lieke M.A. , Egberts Toine C.G. , Korsten Erik H.M.
Published: February 2013

Represcription of medication that was withdrawn after the occurrence of an adverse drug event (including allergy), is a recognized medication safety issue on a patient level. We performed a systematic review to identify systems (electronic and nonelectronic) that can prevent the represcription of drugs withdrawn because of an adverse drug event and the effects of these systems. The review was performed using PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines. PubMed and Embase were searched for articles describing systems that can prevent represcription of drugs that had been withdrawn for causing an adverse drug event. Information on the characteristics of the studies, systems, and if present results achieved with such systems, was extracted. The results showed that of 6793 articles screened, 137 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. A total of 45 studies describing 33 systems (28 electronic) were included. The five nonelectronic systems used allergy bracelets or allergy labels on hospital medical records or on drug orders. Systems differed in the way adverse drug events were documented and how users were alerted to drug represcription. Most systems functioned within a specific healthcare setting. Of 12 studies that compared pre- and post-intervention periods or wards with and without intervention, 7 showed a reduction in represcription after adverse drug event. In conclusion, several systems have been developed that can prevent the represcription of drugs that elicited an adverse drug event, but the evidence that these systems are effective is limited.
Urinary tract infection following flexible cystoscopy: a comparison between sterilised cystoscopes and disposable sterile sheaths
Authors: McCombie Steve P , Carmichael Jack P , Banerjee Srijit , Wood Sarah J
Published: February 2013

Objective:

The objective of this article is to compare the incidence of post-cystoscopy urinary tract infections (UTIs) between cystoscopes sterilised between patients and cystoscopes that use removable sterile sheath technology.

Patients and methods:

A total of 200 patients undergoing flexible cystoscopy at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital (Norwich, UK) between November 2011 and March 2012 were identified prospectively as part of an ongoing audit of the department’s services. One hundred patients were recruited from day procedure lists, using KeyMed® cystoscopes sterilised between patients (sterilised scope, SS); 100 patients were recruited from a ‘one-stop’ urology clinic, using a Vision Sciences® CST-5000 cystoscope with disposable sterile Endosheath® technology (removable sheath, RS). Mid-stream urine (MSUs) samples and patient symptoms were recorded prior to the cystoscopy and at least three days following the cystoscopy.

Results:

No significant difference was found in the incidence of new MSU-confirmed UTI (2.7% (SS) vs. 2.0% (RS)). In those undergoing their first cystoscopy, no significant differences were found in either new symptoms (34.1% (SS) vs. 36.7% (RS)) or requirement for antibiotics (13.6% (SS) vs. 13.0% (RS)).

Conclusion:

Flexible cystoscopy using removable sterile sheath technology does not have a higher incidence of UTI compared to a cystoscope sterilised between patients. The introduction of cystoscopes using this technology can therefore safely transform flexible cystoscopy into an outpatient clinic procedure.
Perceived Factors Affecting Asthma Among Adolescents
Authors: Gupta Ruchi S. , Lau Claudia H. , Springston Elizabeth E. , Warren Christopher M. , Mears Cynthia J. , Dunford Christine M. , Sharp Lisa K. , Holl Jane L.
Published: February 2013

Objective: To describe the development, implementation, and findings of a participatory media-based asthma afterschool program. Methods: A pilot study was conducted during the 2010/2011 school year in an inner-city Chicago high school with high asthma rates and poor asthma morbidity. Students met after school twice a week over 10 weeks. Students were given basic training in research and media production using photovoice participatory research technique and were instructed to identify personally relevant factors affecting asthma through photography and journaling. Students’ journal entries and photographs were qualitatively coded. Relative frequencies of codes were calculated to determine common themes among identified factors. Students worked with a videographer to compile their findings into informational videos, which were used to educate peers and community members about asthma. Results: Fifteen students aged 13 to 18 attended a mean of 11 sessions (out of 20). One hundred eighty photographs (mean = 12 per student) and 112 journal entries (mean = 7.5 per student) were reviewed, with 4 predominant positive and negative factors identified. Reported factors influencing students’ health and asthma included social support (22% of student photos and journal entries), neighborhood environment (17%), and lifestyle (28%), in addition to well-established asthma factors (43%). Conclusions: Results from the Student Asthma Research Team pilot demonstrate that adolescent students, given appropriate instruction and opportunity, are able to identify factors affecting their asthma. Interventions engaging adolescents via self-directed identification and participatory media production techniques hold promise as vehicles for enabling students to own and share health-related experiences through research and peer/community outreach.
The Nature of Pain Offset Relief in Nonsuicidal Self-Injury
Authors: Franklin Joseph C. , Puzia Megan E. , Lee Kent M. , Lee Grace E. , Hanna Eleanor K. , Spring Victoria L. , Prinstein Mitchell J.
Published: February 2013

The majority of people who engage in nonsuicidal self-injury (e.g., cutting) report that affect regulation is their primary motivation for these painful behaviors. Unfortunately, little is known about the mechanisms that regulate affect during nonsuicidal self-injury. In the present study, we examined the role of one potential mechanism known as pain offset relief. In 42 participants (21 self-cutters, 21 controls), we measured psychophysiological indices of positive affect (startle postauricular reactivity) and negative affect (startle eyeblink reactivity) after painful electric shocks. Results provided evidence that pain offset relief is a natural and unique mechanism of affect regulation that generates simultaneous—but independent—positive and negative reinforcement. However, associations between nonsuicidal self-injury frequency and pain offset relief variables were weak and nonsignificant. Contrary to contemporary theories, this suggests that the strong association between prior and future self-injury may not be driven by opponent processes that generate stronger relief (and, thus, stronger reinforcement of self-injury) across episodes.
Pathogenesis of ataxia-telangiectasia: the next generation of ATM functions
Authors: Ambrose Mark , Gatti Richard A.
Published: February 2013

In 1988, the gene responsible for the autosomal recessive disease ataxia- telangiectasia (A-T) was localized to 11q22.3-23.1. It was eventually cloned in 1995. Many independent laboratories have since demonstrated that in replicating cells, ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) is predominantly a nuclear protein that is involved in the early recognition and response to double-stranded DNA breaks. ATM is a high-molecular-weight PI3K-family kinase. ATM also plays many important cytoplasmic roles where it phosphorylates hundreds of protein substrates that activate and coordinate cell-signaling pathways involved in cell-cycle checkpoints, nuclear localization, gene transcription and expression, the response to oxidative stress, apoptosis, nonsense-mediated decay, and others. Appreciating these roles helps to provide new insights into the diverse clinical phenotypes exhibited by A-T patients—children and adults alike—which include neurodegeneration, high cancer risk, adverse reactions to radiation and chemotherapy, pulmonary failure, immunodeficiency, glucose transporter aberrations, insulin-resistant diabetogenic responses, and distinct chromosomal and chromatin changes. An exciting recent development is the ATM-dependent pathology encountered in mitochondria, leading to inefficient respiration and energy metabolism and the excessive generation of free radicals that themselves create life-threatening DNA lesions that must be repaired within minutes to minimize individual cell losses.
Neurocarta: aggregating and sharing disease-gene relations for the neurosciences
Authors: Portales-Casamar Elodie , Ch’ng Carolyn , Lui Frances , St-Georges Nicolas , Zoubarev Anton , Lai Artemis Y , Lee Mark , Kwok Cathy , Kwok Willie , Tseng Luchia , Pavlidis Paul
Published: February 2013

Background

Understanding the genetic basis of diseases is key to the development of better diagnoses and treatments. Unfortunately, only a small fraction of the existing data linking genes to phenotypes is available through online public resources and, when available, it is scattered across multiple access tools.

Description

Neurocarta is a knowledgebase that consolidates information on genes and phenotypes across multiple resources and allows tracking and exploring of the associations. The system enables automatic and manual curation of evidence supporting each association, as well as user-enabled entry of their own annotations. Phenotypes are recorded using controlled vocabularies such as the Disease Ontology to facilitate computational inference and linking to external data sources. The gene-to-phenotype associations are filtered by stringent criteria to focus on the annotations most likely to be relevant. Neurocarta is constantly growing and currently holds more than 30,000 lines of evidence linking over 7,000 genes to 2,000 different phenotypes.

Conclusions

Neurocarta is a one-stop shop for researchers looking for candidate genes for any disorder of interest. In Neurocarta, they can review the evidence linking genes to phenotypes and filter out the evidence they’re not interested in. In addition, researchers can enter their own annotations from their experiments and analyze them in the context of existing public annotations. Neurocarta’s in-depth annotation of neurodevelopmental disorders makes it a unique resource for neuroscientists working on brain development.
The role of interactions between bacterial chaperone, aspartate aminotransferase, and viral protein during virus infection in high temperature environment: the interactions between bacterium and virus proteins
Authors: Chen Yanjiang , Wei Dahai , Wang Yiqian , Zhang Xiaobo
Published: February 2013

Background

The life cycle of a bacteriophage has tightly programmed steps to help virus infect its host through the interactions between the bacteriophage and its host proteins. However, bacteriophage–host protein interactions in high temperature environment remain poorly understood. To address this issue, the protein interaction between the thermophilic bacteriophage GVE2 and its host thermophilic Geobacillus sp. E263 from a deep-sea hydrothermal vent was characterized.

Results

This investigation showed that the host’s aspartate aminotransferase (AST), chaperone GroEL, and viral capsid protein VP371 formed a linearly interacted complex. The results indicated that the VP371-GroEL-AST complex were up-regulated and co-localized in the GVE2 infection of Geobacillus sp. E263.

Conclusions

As reported, the VP371 is a capsid protein of GVE2 and the host AST is essential for the GVE2 infection. Therefore, our study revealed that the phage could use the anti-stress system of its host to protect the virus reproduction in a high-temperature environment for the first time.
Regional differences in prostaglandin E2 metabolism in human colorectal cancer liver metastases
Authors: Young Alastair L , Chalmers Claire R , Hawcroft Gillian , Perry Sarah L , Treanor Darren , Toogood Giles J , Jones Pamela F , Hull Mark A
Published: February 2013

Background

Prostaglandin (PG) E2 plays a critical role in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Activity of the rate-limiting enzyme for PGE2 catabolism (15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase [15-PGDH]) is dependent on availability of NAD+. We tested the hypothesis that there is intra-tumoral variability in PGE2 content, as well as in levels and activity of 15-PGDH, in human CRC liver metastases (CRCLM). To understand possible underlying mechanisms, we investigated the relationship between hypoxia, 15-PGDH and PGE2 in human CRC cells in vitro.

Methods

Tissue from the periphery and centre of 20 human CRCLM was analysed for PGE2 levels, 15-PGDH and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression, 15-PGDH activity, and NAD+/NADH levels. EMT of LIM1863 human CRC cells was induced by transforming growth factor (TGF) β.

Results

PGE2 levels were significantly higher in the centre of CRCLM compared with peripheral tissue (P = 0.04). There were increased levels of 15-PGDH protein in the centre of CRCLM associated with reduced 15-PGDH activity and low NAD+/NADH levels. There was no significant heterogeneity in COX-2 protein expression. NAD+ availability controlled 15-PGDH activity in human CRC cells in vitro. Hypoxia induced 15-PGDH expression in human CRC cells and promoted EMT, in a similar manner to PGE2. Combined 15-PGDH expression and loss of membranous E-cadherin (EMT biomarker) were present in the centre of human CRCLM in vivo.

Conclusions

There is significant intra-tumoral heterogeneity in PGE2 content, 15-PGDH activity and NAD+ availability in human CRCLM. Tumour micro-environment (including hypoxia)-driven differences in PGE2 metabolism should be targeted for novel treatment of advanced CRC.
Ganghwaljetongyeum, an anti-arthritic remedy, attenuates synoviocyte proliferation and reduces the production of proinflammatory mediators in macrophages: the therapeutic effect of GHJTY on rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Jeoung Bo-Ram , Lee Kyung Dong , Na Chang-Su , Kim Young-Eok , Kim BoA , Kim Young Ran
Published: February 2013

Background

Ganghwaljetongyeum (GHJTY), a complex herbal decoction, is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. However, the action mechanism of GHJTY is not still unclear on rheumatoid arthritis. In this study, we examined the beneficial effects and the action mechanisms of GHJTY on synoviocyte proliferation and inflammatory mediators.

Methods

To test the effect of GHJTY on synoviocyte proliferation, HIG-82 cells, rabbit knee synovial membrane cells, were treated with GHJTY under IL-1β. To evaluate the effects of GHJTY on proinflammatory mediators, we tested cytokine levels in RAW264.7 cells.

Results

Proliferation of HIG-82 cells was significantly inhibited by GHJTY treatment. We found that GHJTY caused cytoskeleton damage to HIG-82 cells. In contrast, treatment of GHJTY did not show any cytotoxicity to other different origin cell lines, HeLa and RAW264.7 cells. GHJTY inhibited IL-1β-mediated NF-κB activation in HIG-82 cells and reduced the LPS-mediated production of proinflammatory cytokines, TNF-α, IL-12, and NO in RAW264.7 cells. In addition, the expression of cyclooxygenase in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells was also decreased by GHJTY treatment.

Conclusions

These results suggest that GHJTY might effectively attenuate rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting the production of proinflammatory mediators and the proliferation of synoviocytes.
Measuring global health-related quality of life in children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant: a longitudinal study
Authors: Rodday Angie Mae , Terrin Norma , Parsons Susan K ,   on behalf of the Journeys to Recovery Study and the HSCT-CHESS™ Study
Published: February 2013

Background

Pediatric health-related quality of life (HRQL) measures explore multiple domains of HRQL. To ease administration, burden, and implementation, we created a 7-item unidimensional global HRQL scale for children. This paper evaluates the psychometric properties of the global HRQL scale in children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and describes the trajectory of global HRQL scores over the 12-month course following HSCT.

Methods

As part of two longitudinal HSCT studies, HRQL was collected on 312 parent–child dyads using the Child Health Ratings Inventories. Parents of children aged 5–18 completed the pediatric global HRQL scale about their child and 117 adolescents completed the scale themselves. Psychometric properties were compared across both raters. Two repeated measures models were built to describe trajectories of (1) global HRQL for all children based on parent proxy report and (2) global HRQL for adolescents based on adolescent self-report and parent proxy report.

Results

Internal consistency reliability was high for parent proxy report and adolescent self-report (Cronbach’s alpha 0.9, 0.8, respectively). Unidimensionality was verified using principal components analysis. Both models indicated decreased global HRQL in the presence of early complications related to HSCT and Model 1 further indicated decreased HRQL in the presence of later complications. Model 2 showed that parent proxies reported lower global HRQL scores than adolescent self-report.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated the unidimensionality and strong psychometric properties of a 7-item global HRQL scale in a sample of children undergoing HSCT. Despite its brevity, scale scores vary in clinically meaningful ways. Future applications of this scale are encouraged.
Invasive lobular carcinoma arising in accessory breast tissue
Authors: Devine Catriona , Courtney Carol-Ann , Deb Rahul , Agrawal Amit
Published: February 2013

Background

Lobular carcinoma in accessory breast tissue is a rare occurrence. We present such a case in a 61-year-old woman.

Case presentation

A skin nodule in the axillary skin on excision biopsy revealed invasive lobular carcinoma.

Conclusions

Carcinoma in accessory breast tissue is uncommon especially invasive lobular type. A high index of suspicion may avoid late diagnosis.
In situ synthesis of P3HT-capped CdSe superstructures and their application in solar cells
Authors: Peng Yanling , Song Guosheng , Hu Xianghua , He Guanjie , Chen Zhigang , Xu Xiaofeng , Hu Junqing
Published: February 2013

Organic/inorganic hybrid solar cells have great potentials to revolutionize solar cells, but their use has been limited by inefficient electron/hole transfer due to the presence of long aliphatic ligands and unsatisfying continuous interpenetrating networks. To solve this problem, herein, we have developed a one-pot route for in situ synthesis of poly(3-hexylthiophene) (P3HT)-capped CdSe superstructures, in which P3HT acts directly as the ligands. These CdSe superstructures are in fact constructed from numerous CdSe nanoparticles. The presence of P3HT ligands has no obvious adverse effects on the morphologies and phases of CdSe superstructures. Importantly, higher content of P3HT ligands results in stronger photoabsorption and fluorescent intensity of CdSe superstructure samples. Subsequently, P3HT-capped CdSe superstructures prepared with 50 mg P3HT were used as a model material to fabricate the solar cell with a structure of PEDOT:PSS/P3HT-capped CdSe superstructures: P3HT/Al. This cell gives a power conversion efficiency of 1.32%.
Prevalence of intestinal parasites and associated risk factors among HIV/AIDS patients with pre-ART and on-ART attending dessie hospital ART clinic, Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Missaye Assefa , Dagnew Mulat , Alemu Abebe , Alemu Agersew
Published: February 2013

Background

Intestinal parasites are a major concern in most developing countries where HIV/AIDS case are concentrate and almost 80% of AIDS patients die of AIDS-related infections. In the absence of ART, HIV/AIDS patients in developing countries unfortunately continue to suffer from the consequences of opportunistic parasites. But this prevalence has dramatically decreased in countries where antiretroviral agents are widely available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of intestinal parasite and risk factor among pre- ART and on ART adult HIV/ AIDS patients attending ART clinic in Dessie hospital.

Methods

A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted among pre-ART and on ART adult HIV/AIDS patients of Dessie Hospital. A total of 272 (136 from each group) study subjects were selected by using systematic random sampling. Stool sample was collected and processed using direct wet mount, formol-ether concentration technique and modified Ziehl-Neelson staining techniques. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data on Sociodemographic & associated risk factors. Data was entered and analyzed by using SPSS 16 software and logistic regressions were applied to assess any association between explanatory factors and outcome variables.

Results

The overall prevalence of IP in pre-ART and on-ART was 39% and 17.6%, respectively with significant decrease of intestinal parasite in the ART era (p < 0.001). All Cryptosporidium spps infections were found in the pre-ART patients and significantly associated for lower CD4 <200cells/mm3. Absence of toilet (AOR = 7.57; 95% CI = 1.3,44.22), source of water (AOR = 6.03; 95% CI = 1.14,31.98), living condition (AOR = 13.29, 95% CI = 5.14, 34.35); WHO stage (AOR = 6.06; 95% CI = 2.49,14.74) and ART status (AOR = 7.55; 95% CI = 3.24,17.59) have significant association with prevalence of intestinal parasite.

Conclusion

The overall prevalence of IP was differ by ART status and opportunistic parasite like cryptosporidium spps were found in low CD4 counts in ART naive patients. This study identified some environmental and some clinical finding as determinant factor for IP infections. Therefore, public health measures and adherence to ART should be strengthened to improve the quality of life of these patients.
Development and characterization of the replicon system of Japanese encephalitis live vaccine virus SA14-14-2
Authors: Li Shi-Hua , Li Xiao-Feng , Zhao Hui , Deng Yong-Qiang , Yu Xue-Dong , Zhu Shun-Ya , Jiang Tao , Ye Qing , Qin E-De , Qin Cheng-Feng
Published: February 2013

Background

Viral self-replicating sub-genomic replicons represent a powerful tool for studying viral genome replication, antiviral screening and chimeric vaccine development. Many kinds of flavivirus replicons have been developed with broad applications.

Findings

The replicon system of JEV live vaccine strain SA14-14-2 was successfully developed in this study. Two kinds of replicons that express enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) and Renilla luciferase (R.luc) were constructed under the control of SP6 promoter, respectively. Robust EGFP and R.luc signals could be detected in the replicon-transfected BHK-21 cells. Furthermore, the potential effects of selected amino acids in the C-terminal of envelope protein on replication were characterized using the replicon system.

Conclusions

Our results provide a useful platform not only for the study of JEV replication, but also for antiviral screening and chimeric vaccine development.