bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of L-plastin autoantibody in plasma of patients with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma using a proteomics-based analysis
Authors: Ueda Kazuhito , Nakanishi Toyofumi , Shimizu Akira , Takubo Takayuki , Matsuura Nariaki
Published: February 2008

Background

The diagnosis of malignant lymphoma (ML) such as non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) and Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) was mainly performed by morphological examination and gene analysis. There are only a few serum/plasma biomarkers such as lactate dehydrogenase and soluble interleukin-2 receptor α to diagnose ML. The classifications are various, and therefore the cell surface markers using flow cytometry or lymph node biopsy have been examined. It is difficult, however, to distinguish the two diseases, NHL and HL, from each other.

Methods

In order to identify the haematological malignancy-associated autoimmunoreactivity (autoantibodies) in patients' plasma, a novel proteomics-based approach using electrophoresis/mass spectrometry was applied. Solubilized proteins from a Burkitt's lymphoma cell line (Raji) were separated by sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blotting analysis, in which the plasma of individual patients with haematological malignancies was tested for primary antibodies, followed by visualization with anti-IgG antibody conjugated with horseradish peroxidase.

Results

Two proteins, L-plastin and α-enolase, capable of reacting with the antibodies in plasma of patients with NHL, were detected using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization/time-of-flight mass spectrometry and tandem mass spectrometry. The rates of the detections of an anti L-plastin autoantibody were significantly higher: 0.84 (21/25) in patients with NHL; 0.00 (0/4) in HL; 0.38 (5/13) in autoimmune diseases; 0.20 (2/10) in leukaemia; and 0.13 (1/8) in healthy controls. In contrast, those of anti α-enolase antibody were not specific to NHL.

Conclusions

We first identified autoantibody against L-plastin in plasma of patients with NHL, suggesting that the autoantibody can be a new diagnostic biomarker for NHL.
Altered red cell membrane compositions related to functional vitamin B12 deficiency manifested by elevated urine methylmalonic acid concentrations in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Özcan Ömer , İpçioğlu Osman Metin , Gültepe Mustafa , Başoğlu Cengiz
Published: February 2008

Background

Abnormal cell membrane composition and functional cobalamin (vitamin B12) deficiency was reported in schizophrenic individuals. We aimed to investigate the relationship between cobalamin state and cell membrane composition in patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

Malondialdehyde (MDA), cholesterol, and phospholipid classes in the erythrocyte membranes of 18 schizophrenic and 20 healthy individuals of the same age and sex distribution were determined. Serum vitamin B12, plasma total homocysteine, serum folate, and urine methylmalonic acid (uMMA) concentrations were measured in both groups.

Results

In the schizophrenic group, uMMA, membrane MDA, membrane cholesterol, membrane phosphatidylinositol concentrations were significantly higher and the membrane phosphatidylserine concentrations were lower than the control group values. In schizophrenic individuals, uMMA concentrations have a significant positive correlation with membrane MDA and a negative correlation with membrane cholesterol concentrations ( P < 0.05). The negative correlation of uMMA with membrane cholesterol concentrations may be a biological response to the increased membrane rigidity. Also, a free radical elevation related to the elevated uMMA concentrations in the erythrocyte membrane, might reflect the role of methylmalonic acid (MMA) in membrane damage.

Conclusion

Our present findings suggest that, functional vitamin B12 deficiency representing itself by MMA elevations in schizophrenic individuals could damage cell membrane.
Familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency caused by known (G188E) and novel (W394X) LPL gene mutations
Authors: Hooper A J , Crawford G M , Brisbane J M , Robertson K , Watts G F , van Bockxmeer F M , Burnett J R
Published: February 2008

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) is the key enzyme in the catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins in the circulation. Familial LPL deficiency is characterized by hypertriglyceridaemia and absence of LPL activity. We report a case of LPL deficiency in a 43-year-old woman, who initially presented in childhood with chylomicronaemia syndrome. At that time, her plasma triglyceride concentration was ∼30 mmol/L and post-heparin lipolytic activity was very low. In addition to having the known missense mutation LPL G188E, the patient was also found to have a novel nonsense mutation in exon 8, namely LPL W394X. The novel substitution in exon 8 (c.1262G > A) predicts a truncated protein product of 393 amino acids that lacks the carboxyl-terminal 12% of the mature LPL. Trp394 is part of a cluster of exposed tryptophan residues in the carboxyl-terminal domain of LPL important for binding lipid substrate. Of 11 members from her three-generation family, three were heterozygotes for G188E (mean plasma triglyceride, 3.5 ± 2.0 mmol/L), whereas six were heterozygotes for W394X (triglyceride, 4.3 ± 1.8 mmol/L). In summary, we describe a case of familial LPL deficiency caused by compound heterozygosity for known (G188E) and novel (W394X) LPL gene mutations.
The commutability of external quality assurance serum and reference serum materials between the VITROS® Albumin Slide and four other routine albumin methods
Authors: Gould N , Møller J , Andrieux L
Published: February 2008

Background

Between-method differences in external quality assurance schemes (EQAS) are assumed to be indicative of between-method differences in results for fresh diagnostic serum samples. However, this assumption is only valid if the EQAS fluid is shown to be commutable between methods with the fresh human samples. Using fresh human serum samples, we studied the commutability of six UK National EQAS (UKNEQAS) samples and two reference serum preparations using five methods for the measurement of albumin.

Methods

The VITROS® Albumin Slide was compared with two liquid reagent bromocresol green-based methods and two immunoturbidimetric methods. Thirty fresh human serum samples, six UKNEQAS samples and two reference materials were analysed over a period of five days by all methods. The reference materials were: a certified protein reference material, CRM470 (protein reference preparation) and the Scandinavian NFKK Reference Serum X.

Results

A concentration-dependent tendency towards non-commutability was seen for the six UKNEQAS samples. Two of the methods recovered the CRM470 above the upper limit of the expected range and the remaining three were within the expected range.

Conclusions

Assessment of commutability is important in the investigation of between-method differences in EQAS. External quality assurance and reference materials should have been demonstrated to be commutable and be available at multiple concentrations, before they may be considered appropriate for the assessment of accuracy.
Measurement of breath hydrogen and methane, together with lactase genotype, defines the current best practice for investigation of lactose sensitivity
Authors: Waud Jonathan P , Matthews Stephanie B , Campbell Anthony K
Published: February 2008

Background

Currently, there is no ‘gold standard’ for detecting patients with sensitivity to lactose. Biochemical investigation by a breath hydrogen test alone detects <50% cases. Breath methane and symptoms are not recorded as standard practice. The clinical value of analysing C/T13910 and G/A22018 polymorphisms, strongly associated with lactose sensitivity, has not been established.

Methods

Two hundred and ten patients with unexplained gut and systemic symptoms and controls were challenged with 50 g lactose. Breath hydrogen and methane were measured and symptoms recorded. All were genotyped for two polymorphisms, C/T13910 and G/A22018.

Results

CC13910/GG22018 in 14.5%, CT13910/GA22018 in 39% and TT13910/AA22018 in 46.5%. One hundred percent of CC13910/GG22018 were lactose sensitive having a breath hydrogen >20 ppm within 6 h and symptoms. But the breath hydrogen test lacked sensitivity and specificity in the other groups. There was elevated breath hydrogen in 21% of CT13910/GA22018 and 15% of TT13910/AA22018 by 6 h, whereas 17 and 30.9% had elevated breath methane alone. Breath methane and breath hydrogen with clinical symptoms improved sensitivity and specificity, increasing detection of lactose sensitivity in genotypes CT/GA and TT/AA from <50 to >75%.

Conclusions

The data presented define the current best practice for the clinical identification of lactose sensitivity. Patients were first genotyped. Those identified as CC with symptoms should immediately undertake a 12-week lactose-free diet. Those identified as CT or TT should undertake a breath hydrogen and methane test. Those positive for hydrogen or methane along with symptoms or with symptoms only, should also undertake a lactose-free diet. Those with high hydrogen without symptoms should be investigated for causes other than lactose sensitivity.
Interpreting indicators of iron status during an acute phase response – lessons from malaria and human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Northrop-Clewes Christine A
Published: February 2008

Iron status is influenced by inflammation when the normal control of iron metabolism is reorganized by the primary mediators of the acute phase response, tumour necrosis factor-α and interleukin-1. The objective of this review is to show how indices of iron status, particularly haemoglobin, serum ferritin and soluble transferrin receptor concentrations relate to changes in the acute phase proteins during inflammation. The pattern of acute phase response after elective surgery, not preceded by infection, is used to demonstrate the time course of stimulation of the acute phase proteins. The changes in the concentrations of serum acute phase protein and markers of iron status during treatment for infection are used to demonstrate inter-relationships between the indicators. In many developing countries, asymptomatic malaria and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are common and may affect the interpretation of iron indicators during population assessments. Malaria produces an acute phase response and relationships between acute phase protein and indices of iron status indicate an influence of inflammation in both symptomatic and asymptomatic malaria, except when the parasitaemia is less than 1000/ μL of blood when ferritin appears to be unaffected. HIV-1 impacts on haemopoiesis and anaemia. Anaemia increases in severity as the disease progresses and it is often a negative prognostic indicator. However, in individuals infected with HIV there may be an atypical acute phase response in the absence of opportunistic infections. Tentative conclusions are drawn concerning the inter-relationships between ferritin and the acute phase proteins, C-reactive protein and α-1-acid glycoprotein during an acute phase response.
Cerebral syphilitic gumma in HIV-infected patients: case report and review
Authors: Weinert Letícia S , Scheffel Rafael S , Zoratto Gabriela , Samios Vinícius , Jeffmann Marcelo W , Dora José Miguel , Goldani Luciano Z
Published: February 2008

Neurosyphilis presenting as a cerebral gumma is an uncommon event. To date there are seven cases of cerebral gumma reported in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected patients. We describe a HIV-infected patient with neurosyphilis presenting as an expanding central nervous system lesion and unremarkable cerebrospinal fluid analysis. This case report illustrates the clinical and therapeutic aspects of syphilitic gumma in HIV-infected patients.
Early syphilitic hepatitis in an immunocompetent patient: really so uncommon?
Authors: Noto P , Del Nonno F , Licci S , Chinello P , Petrosillo N
Published: February 2008

The incidence of syphilis has increased substantially over the past years, particularly in men who have sex with men. The clinical manifestations of syphilis are variable and liver involvement is uncommon, but may occur at any stage of the disease. We report a case of early syphilitic hepatitis (ESH) in an immunocompetent patient referring multiple bisexual exposures, who presented at admission with jaundice, tiredness, an ulcerated genital lesion and an increase of liver aminotransferases. During his hospital stay, he developed a skin rash, and serology for syphilis was found positive. Our case report strengthens the need to take into consideration the diagnosis of ESH in all patients with unexplained liver enzyme increase and epidemiological data of unsafe sexual exposures. Indeed, an early recognition of the clinical manifestations of syphilis can lead to a prompt treatment, and allows the prevention of the transmission of this disease to other individuals.
Time to use text reminders in genitourinary medicine clinics
Authors: Cohen C E , Coyne K M , Mandalia S , Waters A-M , Sullivan A K
Published: February 2008

Faced with a national 48-hour waiting time target and high non-attendance rates for booked appointments, our sexual health service sought patient preferences for appointment reminders. Questionnaires were distributed to 350 consecutive genitourinary medicine clinic attendees. Eighty-eight percent of respondents approved of appointment reminders, with text messaging being the preferred option. Automated voicemail reminders to mobile phones were acceptable to 84%. Patients would generally choose a voicemail reminder to their mobile phone as opposed to home or work phone, and this preference was more pronounced in younger patients ( P = 0.03). The majority of patients considered reminders two or three days in advance sufficient notice, with 98% owning a mobile phone. Text or voicemail reminders may significantly reduce non-attendance rates and their associated costs, improve accessibility and reduce waiting times.
Prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis and associated risk factors in women inmates admitted to a youth offenders institute in the UK
Authors: Gabriel G , Burns T , Scott-Ram R , Adlington R , Bansi L
Published: February 2008

The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis genital infections in young women inmates aged 17–21 located on the Youth Offenders Institute of HMP Holloway. The study consisted of a questionnaire and a urine sample for analysis. A health advisor administered a questionnaire to establish sociodemographic profile, sexual history and illicit drug use. C. trachomatis was diagnosed using a nucleic acid amplification test. Overall, the prevalence of C. trachomatis was 13.2%. Drug use was common with 41.2% using crack cocaine and 17.3% using intravenous heroin. A majority (80.2%) reported not using condoms during the last sexual encounter and 62.6% had a history of a previous pregnancy. Over half (53.3%) had a previous sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening and 74.7% had never been previously diagnosed with a STI. Sexual health programmes in prisons should include screening as well as education about STI risk reduction and drug prevention.
A critical analysis of mini peer assessment tool (mini-PAT)
Authors: Abdulla Aza
Published: February 2008

The structured evaluation of doctors’ performance through peer review is a relatively new phenomenon brought about by public demand for accountability to patients. Medical knowledge (as assessed by examination score) is no longer a good predictor of individual performance, humanistic qualities and communication skills. The process of peer review (or multi-source assessment) was developed over the last two decades in the USA and has started to pick up momentum in the UK through the introduction of Modernizing Medical Careers. However the concept is not new. Driven by market forces, it was initially developed by industrial organizations to improve leadership qualities with a view to increasing productivity through positive behaviour change and self-awareness.

Multi-source feedback is not without its problems and may not always produce its desired outcomes. In this article we review the evidence for peer review and critically discuss the current process of mini peer assessment tool (mini-PAT) as the assessment tool for peer review employed in UK.
Quality of information accompanying on-line marketing of home diagnostic tests
Authors: Datta Adrija K , Selman Tara J , Kwok Tony , Tang Teresa , Khan Khalid S
Published: February 2008

Objective

To assess the quality of information provided to consumers by websites marketing medical home diagnostic tests.

Design

A cross-sectional analysis of a database developed from searching targeted websites.

Setting

Data sources were websites written in English which marketed medical home diagnostic tests.

Main outcome measures

A meta-search engine was used to identify the first 20 citations for each type of home diagnostic medical test. Relevant websites limited to those written in English were reviewed independently and in triplicate, with disputes resolved by two further reviewers. Information on the quality of these sites was extracted using a pre-piloted performer.

Results

168 websites were suitable for inclusion in the review. The quality of these sites showed marked variation. Only 24 of 168 (14.2%) complied with at least three-quarters of the quality items and just over half (95 of 168, 56.5%) reported official approval or certification of the test. Information on accuracy of the test marketed was reported by 87 of 168 (51.7%) websites, with 15 of 168 (8.9%) providing a scientific reference. Instructions for use of the product were found in 97 of 168 (57.9%). However, the course of action to be taken after obtaining the test result was stated in only 63 of 168 (37.5%) for a positive result and 43 of 168 (25.5%) for a negative result.

Conclusions

The quality of information posted on commercial websites marketing home tests online is unsatisfactory and potentially misleading for consumers.
How Anomaly Response is Distributed Across Functionally Distinct Teams in Space Shuttle Mission Control
Authors: Watts-Perotti Jennifer , Woods David D.
Published: February 2008

In this paper, we describe the coordinative anomaly response processes of functionally distinct teams who encountered a space shuttle anomaly at the beginning of a shuttle mission. Anomaly response processes were observed as two distinct teams considered how to modify mission plans in response to the anomaly. We analyzed multiple coordinative and independent activities that occurred across the teams over several days until the space shuttle safely returned. Our analysis of this case captures how the processes of anomaly response become distributed across a set of functionally distinct teams. The analysis identifies the demands that arise as anomaly response is distributed and reveals how interactions among distinct teams can make anomaly response robust in the face of uncertainty and risk.
Fasergekoppeltes Terahertz-Spektroskopiesystem (Fiber-coupled Terahertz Spectroscopy System)
Authors: Ellrich Frank , Weinland Tristan , Theuer Michael , Jonuscheit Joachim , Beigang René
Published: February 2008

Üblicherweise werden Terahertz-Zeitbereichsspektroskopie-Systeme in Freistrahlanordnung gepumpt. Durch die Verwendung geeigneter Lichtwellenleiter, über die die infraroten Laserpulse dann mehrere Meter weit übertragen werden, erreicht man eine Entkopplung des optischen Bereiches von dem Terahertz-Messbereich. Dadurch wird das System kompakter und gegenüber störenden äußeren Einflüssen robuster. Im Folgenden wird die glasfaserbasierte Übertragungstechnik der optischen Femtosekundenpulse präsentiert. Als mögliches Anwendungsgebiet der glasfasergekoppelten Terahertz-Systeme wird im Bereich der zerstörungsfreien Materialprüfung die Messung dünner Schichten sowohl in Transmission als auch in Reflexion diskutiert.
Profiles of Behavioral Problems in Children Who Witness Domestic Violence
Authors: Spilsbury James C. , Kahana Shoshana , Drotar Dennis , Creeden Rosemary , Flannery Daniel J. , Friedman Steve
Published: February 2008

Unlike previous investigations of shelter-based samples, our study examined whether profiles of adjustment problems occurred in a community-program–based sample of 175 school-aged children exposed to domestic violence. Cluster analysis revealed three stable profiles/clusters. The largest cluster (69%) consisted of children below clinical thresholds for any internalizing or externalizing problem. Children in the next largest cluster (18%) were characterized as having externalizing problems with or without internalizing problems. The smallest cluster (13%) consisted of children with internalizing problems only. Comparison across demographic and violence characteristics revealed that the profiles differed by child gender, mother’s education, child’s lifetime exposure to violence, and aspects of the event precipitating contact with the community program. Clinical and future research implications of study findings are discussed.
A Test of Explanations for the Effect of Harsh Parenting on the Perpetration of Dating Violence and Sexual Coercion Among College Males
Authors: Simons Leslie Gordon , Burt Callie Harbin , Simons Ronald L.
Published: February 2008

This study uses structural equation modeling (SEM) with a sample of 760 college males to test various hypotheses regarding the avenues whereby harsh corporal punishment and a troubled relationship with parents increase the risk that a boy will grow up to engage in sexual coercion and dating violence. We found that three variables—a general antisocial orientation, sexually permissive attitudes, and believing that violence is a legitimate component of romantic relationships—mediated most of the association between negative parenting and our two outcomes. In addition to this indirect influence, we found that harsh corporal punishment had a direct effect upon dating violence. The findings are discussed with regard to various theoretical perspectives regarding the manner in which family of origin experiences increase the chances that a young man will direct violence toward a romantic partner.
Anxiety Sensitivity and Panic-Related Symptomatology in a Representative Community-Based Sample: A 1-Year Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Cox Brian J. , Taylor Steven , Clara Ian P. , Roberts Lance , Enns Murray W.
Published: February 2008

Anxiety sensitivity is the fear of anxiety sensations based on beliefs that they have harmful physical, psychological, or social consequences. Anxiety sensitivity may represent a psychological vulnerability for panic attacks, but much of the research to date has been limited to selective college student or treatment-seeking samples. There is a paucity of research based on representative community-based samples. There is also a lack of longitudinal research in this regard. The current study addressed both of these issues by investigating the impact of anxiety sensitivity in a large community sample (N = 585) assessed longitudinally over a 1-year period. A hierarchical regression model was used to determine whether baseline scores on the Anxiety Sensitivity Index (ASI) could prospectively predict scores on the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), a continuous scale that is largely a measure of panic-related symptomatology. Baseline BAI scores, neuroticism and stressful life events’ main effects, their interaction, and the ASI were all significant predictors of Time 2 BAI scores. The results thereby show that anxiety sensitivity predicts subsequent panic-related symptomatology even after adjusting for the effects of neuroticism, stressful life events, and their interaction.
Access to Information About Harm and Safety in Contamination-Related Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Olatunji Bunmi O. , Connolly Kevin , Lohr Jeffrey M. , Elwood Lisa S.
Published: February 2008

The present study examined the accessibility of harm and safety information regarding threat-relevant and threat-irrelevant stimuli in analogue contamination-related obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) participants. High OCD participants (N = 24) and low OCD participants (N = 27) generated lists of reasons why four specific situations (using a public restroom, going cliff diving, reading at the library, going to the museum) might be harmful and why they might be safe. Results revealed that, in comparison to the low OCD participants, high OCD participants were able to generate significantly more items on why using a public restroom might be harmful and significantly fewer items on why using a public restroom might be safe. However, no significant differences were found between the two groups in their ability to generate items regarding harm and safety for other situations. Furthermore, number of safety items predicted contamination group status independent of harm items. Content analysis of the harm items generated for using a public restroom revealed concerns primarily related to contagion and disease. Accordingly, the number of items generated for using a public restroom showed a marginal association with disgust levels. The implications of these findings for understanding cognitive biases underlying contamination-related OCD are discussed.
EMDR Treatment of Distressful Experiences That Fail to Meet the Criteria for PTSD
Authors: Cvetek Robert
Published: February 2008

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is thought to successfully treat not only posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but also other psychiatric disorders and mental health problems inasmuch as these have experiential contributions. This randomized clinical trial investigated the effects of treatment of distressful experiences (or small “t” trauma) that fail to meet the criteria for PTSD. Three hours of a slightly adapted form of EMDR were compared to active listening (attentional placebo, also 3 hours) and wait list. Results with 90 participants showed that EMDR produced significantly lower scores on the Impact of Event Scale than active listening or wait list. EMDR also resulted in a significantly smaller increase on the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (State subscale) after memory recall. Some limitations and implications of findings are discussed.
Preliminary Evidence for the Efficacy of EMDR in Treating Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Gauvreau Philippe , Bouchard Stéphane
Published: February 2008

This preliminary study sought to evaluate the potential effectiveness of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) as a treatment modality for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Using a single-case design with multiple baselines across four subjects, the effectiveness of 15 EMDR sessions was evaluated. Results indicate that subsequent to targeting the experiential contributors to GAD and the current and anticipated situations that caused excessive worry, the scores of anxiety and of excessive worry dropped to levels below diagnostic threshold and in two cases to full remission of GAD symptoms. At both posttreatment and at 2 months follow-up, all four participants no longer presented with GAD diagnosis. In addition, time-series analyses (ARMA) indicate statistically significant improvement on both daily measures of worry and anxiety over the course of the EMDR treatment.
Trauma Resolution Treatment as an Adjunct to Standard Treatment for Child Molesters A Qualitative Study
Authors: Ricci Ronald J. , Clayton Cheryl A.
Published: February 2008

A literature review of current treatment models for child molesters and contemporary theories of etiology suggests a gap between theory and practice. Despite emerging recognition of the importance of addressing etiological issues in sexual offender treatment, many programs resist addressing the trauma sequelae of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) in those sex offenders where it is present. Adding trauma treatment to standard sexual offender treatment was identified as a means to closing some of that gap. Ten child molesters with reported histories of CSA were treated with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Subsequent to adding this trauma resolution component, there was improvement on all six subscales of the Sex Offender Treatment Rating Scale as well as decreased idiosyncratic deviant arousal as measured by the penile plethysmograph. The current study reviews qualitative data collected during treatment and at posttreatment interviews.
Evidence of a Decrease in Heart Rate and Skin Conductance Responses in PTSD Patients After a Single EMDR Session
Authors: Aubert-Khalfa Stéphanie , Roques Jacques , Blin Olivier
Published: February 2008

Patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) demonstrate abnormal psychophysiological responses to stressful events. Given that eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy appears to be a treatment of choice for trauma victims, the aim of the present study was to determine if psychophysiological responses to stress decreased after a single EMDR session. Six PTSD patients were treated by an EMDR therapist. Their psychophysiological responses (heart rate and skin conductance) were recorded before and after the EMDR session under two conditions: (a) in a relaxed state and (b) while visualizing their own traumatic event. At the end of the session, all patients had a significant reduction in their PTSD symptoms, which confirms previous results demonstrating the efficacy of the EMDR approach. Second, after only one EMDR session, heart rate and skin conductance during the trauma recall decreased significantly as compared to a relaxing state.
EMDR and Olfactory Reference Syndrome A Case Series
Authors: McGoldrick Therese , Begum Millia , Brown Keith W.
Published: February 2008

Olfactory reference syndrome (ORS) is an illness currently considered a delusional disorder under the DSM–IV criteria. Patients believe that they emit a foul odor, causing them great emotional distress and negative social consequences. Its etiology is inadequately understood, and there is generally a poor response to pharmacological and psychotherapeutic interventions. This article describes the treatment of four consecutive cases of ORS whose pathological symptoms had endured for 8–48 years. The administration of EMDR consisted of processing the various life experiences that appeared to cause and/or trigger the pathology. The EMDR sessions resulted in a complete resolution of symptoms in all four cases, which was maintained at follow-up. Given the rapid and sustained results, we offer a hypothesis based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model to explain the etiopathology and remission.
Transfer of Cadmium from Soil to Vegetable Crops
Authors: Hossain MZ , Ullah SM , Ahad SA , Ullah MB
Published: February 2008

A pot experiment was conducted in order to study the transfer of Cd from soil to the vegetable crops namely Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.), Lal sak (Amaranthus tricolor L.) and Data sak (Amaranthus spinosis L.). The mean transfer factors (concentration in plant dry weight / concentration in soil dry weight) varied from 2.030 to 6.785 in root and 0.166 to 0.525 in shoot. The following mean Cd-transfer factors (DW /DW) were obtained; Lettuce (root: 6.785, shoot: 0.271), Spinach (root: 4.775, shoot: 0.385), Lal sak (root: 2.03, shoot: 0.166) and Data sak (root: 3.445, shoot: 0.525). The transfer factor of Cd in roots of vegetables decreased in the order: Lettuce>Spinach>Data sak>Lal sak; while in shoots it was Data sak>Spinach>Lettuce>Lal sak.

Key words: Cadmium, transfer, soil and vegetables crops.

Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 42(3), 327-334, 2007
Three distinct neuroprotective functions of myricetin against glutamate‐induced neuronal cell death: Involvement of direct inhibition of caspase‐3
Authors: Shimmyo Yoshiari , Kihara Takeshi , Akaike Akinori , Niidome Tetsuhiro , Sugimoto Hachiro
Published: February 2008

The excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate can accumulate in the brain and is thought to be involved in the etiology of many neurodegenerative disorders, including ischemia and Alzheimer disease. Therefore, it is important to search for compounds that reduce glutamate neurotoxicity. This glutamate‐mediated excitotoxicity is caused by intracellular Ca2+overload via the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor NMDAR), reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and caspase‐3 activation. Here we show that the natural flavonoid myricetin inhibited glutamate‐induced excitotoxicity and protected neurons by multiple, distinct pathways. First, myricetin affected modulation of the NMDAR by phosphorylation, causing a subsequent reduction in glutamate‐induced intracellular Ca2+overload. Second, myricetin inhibited the ROS production caused by glutamate. Finally, glutamate‐induced activation of caspase‐3 was reduced by myricetin treatment. Moreover, myricetin directly interacted with the active site of caspase‐3 via three hydrogen bonds and inhibited its activity. We conclude that myricetin inhibited glutamate‐induced neuronal toxicity by multiple biochemical pathways. These results show that myricetin is a potent antineurodegenerative compound and may contribute to the discovery of a drug with which to combat neurodegeneration. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neuroprotective effects of SB‐415286 on hydrogen peroxide‐induced cell death in B65 rat neuroblastoma cells and neurons
Authors: Pizarro Javier G. , Yeste‐Velasco Marc , Rimbau Victor , Casadesús Gemma , Smith Mark A. , Pallàs Mercè , Folch Jaume , Camins Antoni
Published: February 2008

Glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK‐3) is involved in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, as oxidative stress has been implicated in all neurodegenerative disorders, the inhibition of both pathways offers a potential strategy for preventing or delaying neurodegeneration. We examined the cytoprotective effects of lithium and SB‐415286, two inhibitors of GSK‐3, using a rat B65 cell line and also in cerebellar granule cells (CGN). H2O2 decreased the inactive form of GSK‐3 (phospho‐GSK‐3 at Ser9), as measured by immunoblot experiments involving an antibody against the inactive form of the enzyme. Moreover, lithium inhibited this effect. While SB‐415286 exerted a protective effect, lithium did not attenuate the toxic effects of H2O2 (1 mM). We then examined those mechanisms implicated in the protective effects of SB‐415286. When we analyzed reactive oxygen species (ROS) production using the fluorescent probe 2,7‐dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate in B65 cells, as well as in CGN, we found that SB‐415286 strongly reduced DCF fluorescence. Lithium, however, did not exhibit any antioxidant properties. We conclude that the GSK‐3 inhibitor SB‐415286 has antioxidant properties, which may explain the cytoprotective effects against H2O2 damage. Furthermore, inhibition of GSK‐3 activity was not involved in this protective effect.
BDNF is essential to promote persistence of long-term memory storage
Authors: Bekinschtein Pedro , Cammarota Martín , Katche Cynthia , Slipczuk Leandro , Rossato Janine I. , Goldin Andrea , Izquierdo Ivan , Medina Jorge H.
Published: February 2008

Persistence is a characteristic attribute of long-term memories (LTMs). However, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that mediate this process. We recently showed that persistence of LTM requires a late protein synthesis- and BDNF-dependent phase in the hippocampus. Here, we show that intrahippocampal delivery of BDNF reverses the deficit in memory persistence caused by inhibition of hippocampal protein synthesis. Importantly, we demonstrate that BDNF induces memory persistence by itself, transforming a nonlasting LTM trace into a persistent one in an ERK-dependent manner. Thus, BDNF is not only necessary, but sufficient to induce a late postacquisition phase in the hippocampus essential for persistence of LTM storage.
Rapid selection of accessible and cleavable sites in RNA by
Escherichia coli
RNase P and random external guide sequences
Authors: Lundblad Eirik W. , Xiao Gaoping , Ko Jae-hyeong , Altman Sidney
Published: February 2008

A method of inhibiting the expression of particular genes by using external guide sequences (EGSs) has been improved in its rapidity and specificity. Random EGSs that have 14-nt random sequences are used in the selection procedure for an EGS that attacks the mRNA for a gene in a particular location. A mixture of the random EGSs, the particular target RNA, and RNase P is used in the diagnostic procedure, which, after completion, is analyzed in a gel with suitable control lanes. Within a few hours, the procedure is complete. The action of EGSs designed by an older method is compared with EGSs designed by the random EGS method on mRNAs from two bacterial pathogens.
Integrative analysis reveals the direct and indirect interactions between DNA copy number aberrations and gene expression changes
Authors: Lee Hyunju , Kong Sek Won , Park Peter J.
Published: February 2008

Motivation:  DNA copy number aberrations (CNAs) and gene expression (GE) changes provide valuable information for studying chromosomal instability and its consequences in cancer. While it is clear that the structural aberrations and the transcript levels are intertwined, their relationship is more complex and subtle than initially suspected. Most studies so far have focused on how a CNA affects the expression levels of those genes contained within that CNA.

Results: To better understand the impact of CNAs on expression, we investigated the correlation of each CNA to all other genes in the genome. The correlations are computed over multiple patients that have both expression and copy number measurements in brain, bladder and breast cancer data sets. We find that a CNA has a direct impact on the gene amplified or deleted, but it also has a broad, indirect impact elsewhere. To identify a set of CNAs that is coordinately associated with the expression changes of a set of genes, we used a biclustering algorithm on the correlation matrix. For each of the three cancer types examined, the aberrations in several loci are associated with cancer-type specific biological pathways that have been described in the literature: CNAs of chromosome (chr) 7p13 were significantly correlated with epidermal growth factor receptor signaling pathway in glioblastoma multiforme, chr 13q with NF-kappaB cascades in bladder cancer, and chr 11p with Reck pathway in breast cancer. In all three data sets, gene sets related to cell cycle/division such as M phase, DNA replication and cell division were also associated with CNAs. Our results suggest that CNAs are both directly and indirectly correlated with changes in expression and that it is beneficial to examine the indirect effects of CNAs.

Availability: The code is available upon request.

Contact:  peter_park@harvard.edu

Supplementary Information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Interactive visualization software for exploring phylogenetic trees and clades
Authors: Derthick Mark
Published: February 2008

Summary: The Summary Tree Explorer (STE) is a Java application for interactively exploring sets of phylogenetic trees using two coupled representations: a node-and-link diagram and a textual list of common clades. Selection, pruning, filtering or re-rooting in one representation is immediately reflected in the other. While summary trees are more effective at showing the relationship among clades, they can only show a consistent subset of those that appear in the textual list. Working with both representations mitigates the disadvantages of having to choose just one.

Availability: STE, along with several sample datasets, is available at http://cityscape.inf.cs.cmu.edu/phylogeny/

Contact:  mad@cs.cmu.edu
Statistical search on the Semantic Web
Authors: Kobayashi Norio , Toyoda Tetsuro
Published: February 2008

Motivation: Statistical analysis of links on the Semantic Web is important for various evaluation purposes such as quantifying an individual's scientific research output based on citation links. SPARQL has been proposed as a standardized query language for the Semantic Web and is intuitively understandable; however, it does not adequately support statistical evaluation of semantic links.

Results: We have extended SPARQL to a novel Resource Description Framework (RDF) query language termed General and Rapid Association Study Query Language (GRASQL) to generate inferences connecting semantic Boolean-based deduction and statistical evaluation of RDF resources. We have verified the descriptive capability of GRASQL by writing GRASQL queries for practical biomedical search patterns including in silico positional cloning studies and for ranking researchers in a specific domain of expertise by introducing k index, the number of papers containing specific keywords that are published in a fixed period by a researcher. We have also developed a search engine termed General and Rapid Association Study Engine (GRASE), which executes a restricted variety of GRASQL queries by requesting a dynamic and comprehensive evaluation of statistical significance of intersections between each group of documents assigned to URIs and those documents matching user-specified keywords and omics conditions. By performing practical in silico positional cloning searches with GRASE, we show the relevance of our approach on the Semantic Web for biomedical knowledge discovery problem solving.

Availability: GRASE is used as the search engine for the Positional Medline (PosMed) service and Researcher Finder service at http://omicspace.riken.jp/

Contact:  toyop@gsc.riken.jp

Supplementary information: Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Hypophosphatemia as Unusual Cause of ARDS in Cushing’s Syndrome Secondary to Ectopic CRH Production. A Case Report
Authors: Mondello Stefania , Fodale Vincenzo , Cannav Salvatore , Aloisi Carmela , Almoto Barbara , Buemi Michele , Santamaria Letterio B.
Published: February 2008

Hypophosphatemia is an unusual cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We describe a hypophosphatemia-related ARDS case report of a 50-year-old woman with ACTH dependent Cushing's syndrome secondary to ectopic CRH production. The patient clinically showed hypotension tachypnea and increasing dyspnea. Laboratory data showed carbohydrate intolerance, severe hypokalemia, and hypophosphatemia. Arterial blood gases measurement revealed hypocapnia and elevation in bicarbonate values. Chest X-ray showed diffuse bilateral alveolar infiltrates similar to acute pulmonary edema and Kerley's striae. Chest CT scan evidenced diffuse ground glass opacification, bilateral patchy consolidation, and fibrosis, compatible with the recovery phase of ARDS. Clinical symptoms and laboratory examinations supported the diagnosis of ARDS. The patient was managed with supplemental potassium, octreotide, and oxygen therapy. Hypophosphatemia was managed by treating the underlying disorder. Successive surgical removal of the adrenal gland led to complete resolution of Cushing's syndrome. In conclusion, although rare and associated with specific risk factors, hypophosphatemia should be suspected in patients who develop unexplained ARDS.
Update on the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Wilkinson-Berka Jennifer L. , Miller Antonia G.
Published: February 2008

Retinopathy is the most feared complication of diabetes, compromising quality of life in most sufferers. Almost all patients with type 1 diabetes will develop retinopathy over a 15- to 20-year period, and approximately 20–30% will advance to the blinding stage of the disease[1]. Greater than 60% of patients with type 2 diabetes will have retinopathy. This situation is highlighted by the frightening statistic that diabetic retinopathy (DR) remains the most common cause of vision impairment in people of working age in Western society. With the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes, this predicament is set to worsen as over 360 million people are projected to suffer from diabetes and its complications by 2030. Vision loss from diabetes is due to a number of factors, including haemorrhage from new and poorly formed blood vessels, retinal detachment due to contraction of deposited fibrous tissue, and neovascular glaucoma resulting in an increase in intraocular pressure. Diabetic macular oedema is now the principal cause of vision loss in diabetes and involves leakage from a disrupted blood-retinal barrier. In terms of treatment, there is clear evidence that strict metabolic and blood pressure control can lower the risk of developing DR and reduce disease progression. Laser photocoagulation and vitrectomy are effective in preventing severe vision loss in DR, particularly in the most advanced stages of the disease. However, both procedures have limitations. This review examines evidence from preclinical and clinical studies that shows that targeting inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system, vascular endothelial growth factor, corticosteroids, protein kinase C, growth hormone, and advanced glycation end-products are potential treatments for DR.
Bilateral Renal Angiomyolipomas with Invasion of the Renal Vein: A Case Report
Authors: Blick C. , Ravindranath N. , Muneer A. , Jones A.
Published: February 2008

An angiomyolipoma (AML) is usually a benign, rare, and, more commonly, a unilateral renal tumour. Bilateral tumours are very rare, particularly in the absence of tuberous sclerosis complex. Only in a few isolated cases have features of malignancy been associated with an AML. We present a unique case of bilateral AMLs mimicking invasive tumours in the absence of any other features of tuberous sclerosis complex.
Seminoma of Testis Masquerading as Orchitis in an Adult with Paraplegia: Proposed Measures to Avoid Delay in Diagnosing Testicular Tumours in Spinal Cord Injury Patients
Authors: Vaidyanathan Subramanian , Hughes Peter L. , Mansour Paul , Soni Bakul M.
Published: February 2008

Orchitis is common in adult male spinal cord injury (SCI) patients and, therefore, both health professionals and SCI patients themselves tend to attribute testicular swelling to orchitis, with a consequent potential delay in the diagnosis of testicular tumours. A 37-year-old man with paraplegia developed swelling of the right testis. With a presumptive diagnosis of acute bacterial orchitis, he was prescribed ciprofloxacin while awaiting an ultrasound scan. Ultrasound examination of the testis 4 weeks later showed a moderate hydrocele, enlargement and altered echogenicity of both the epididymis and testis, and features of mass-like lesions within the substance of the testis. As these changes might merely have represented a partly treated infection, a follow-up scan was carried out 2 weeks later, which revealed a lobulated mass of mixed echogenicity within the testis and a focal area of increased echogenicity indicative of calcification. A radical orchidectomy performed 19 days later revealed a seminoma. To prevent delay in the diagnosis of testicular tumours in SCI patients, we propose the following measures: (1) patients who develop swelling of the testis should consult a physician as soon as possible for clinical examination; blind antibiotic therapy should be avoided if possible; (2) if clinical examination reveals a hard swelling of the testis and the typical features of acute urinary infection are absent, an ultrasound scan of the scrotum should be performed as soon as possible; (3) in patients with equivocal ultrasound findings, ultrasound-guided, fine-needle aspiration cytology may allow an early diagnosis of testicular malignancy; (4) education of SCI patients and their caregivers is needed to implement these recommendations.