bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selenium-Responsive Proteins in the Sera of Selenium-Enriched Yeast–Supplemented Healthy African American and Caucasian Men
Authors: Sinha Raghu , Sinha Indu , Facompre Nicole , Russell Stephen , Somiari Richard I. , Richie John P. , El-Bayoumy Karam
Published: September 2010

Background: Studies have shown that supplementation of adult men with selenium-enriched yeast (SY) was protective against prostate cancer (PCa) and also reduced oxidative stress and levels of prostate-specific antigen. Here, we determined the effect of SY supplementation on global serum protein expression in healthy men to provide new insights into the mechanism of selenium chemoprevention; such proteins may also serve as biomarkers of disease progression.

Methods: Serum samples from 36 adult men were obtained from our previous SY clinical trial, 9 months after supplementation with either SY (247 μg/d; n = 17) or placebo (nonenriched yeast; n = 19).

Results: Proteomic profiling using two-dimensional difference in gel electrophoresis followed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry revealed a total of 1,496 candidate proteins, of which, 11 were differentially expressed in the SY group as compared with placebo. Eight proteins were upregulated [clusterin isoform 1 (CLU), transthyretin, α-1B-glycoprotein, transferrin, complement component 4B proprotein, isocitrate dehydrogenase, haptoglobin, and keratin 1] and three proteins were downregulated [α-1 antitrypsin (AAT), angiotensin precursor, and albumin precursor] by SY. All of the identified proteins were redox-sensitive or involved in the regulation of redox status. Because both AAT and CLU have been previously linked to PCa development, their identities were confirmed by two-dimensional Western blot analysis.

Conclusions: We identified AAT and CLU as potential candidate proteins involved in the mechanism of PCa prevention by SY. Collectively, proteins identified in this study might serve as potential new biomarkers for monitoring and comparing responses to selenium-based chemopreventive agents.

Impact: Proteomic analysis of serum might be useful for the early detection and monitoring efficacy of chemopreventive agents. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2332–40. ©2010 AACR.
Serum 25(OH) Vitamin D and Risk of Breast Cancer: A Nested Case-Control Study from the French E3N Cohort
Authors: Engel Pierre , Fagherazzi Guy , Boutten Anne , Dupré Thierry , Mesrine Sylvie , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Clavel-Chapelon Françoise
Published: September 2010

Background: High 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] serum concentrations have been found to be associated with reduced breast cancer risk. However, few studies have further investigated this relationship according to menopausal status, nor have they taken into account factors known to influence vitamin D status, such as dietary and serum calcium, parathyroid hormone, and estradiol serum levels.

Methods: We designed a nested case-control study within the French E3N cohort. Cases were women diagnosed with incident breast cancer (n = 636). Controls (n = 1,272) were matched with cases on age, menopausal status at blood collection, age at menopause, and center and year of blood collection. Multivariate logistic regression models were established.

Results: We found a decreased risk of breast cancer with increasing 25(OH) vitamin D3 serum concentrations (odds ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.55-0.96; P trend = 0.02) among women in the highest tertile. We also observed a significant inverse association restricted to women under 53 years of age at blood sampling [odds ratio (T3 versus T1), 0.60; 95% confidence interval, 0.37-0.98; P trend = 0.04]. In premenopausal women, the risk was also decreased, although not significantly.

Conclusion: Our findings support a decreased risk of breast cancer associated with high 25(OH) vitamin D3 serum concentrations, especially in younger women, although we were unable to confirm a direct influence of age or menopausal status.

Impact: Randomized intervention trials with vitamin D supplementation are required to confirm its benefits on breast cancer risk, but the maintenance of adequate vitamin D levels should be encouraged by public health policy. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2341–50. ©2010 AACR.
Prostate Cancer Susceptibility Variants Confer Increased Risk of Disease Progression
Authors: Cheng Iona , Plummer Sarah J. , Neslund-Dudas Christine , Klein Eric A. , Casey Graham , Rybicki Benjamin A. , Witte John S.
Published: September 2010

Background: Genome-wide association studies have identified numerous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) associated with the risk of prostate cancer. Our objective was to determine whether these SNPs affect the progression of prostate cancer.

Methods: We genotyped 26 SNPs previously associated with prostate cancer risk among 788 aggressive prostate cancer patients who were treated by radical prostatectomy or radiation therapy. Prostate cancer progression was defined as biochemical recurrence based on posttreatment prostate-specific antigen levels of >0.3 ng/mL for radical prostatectomy patients or a 2-ng/mL increase above the nadir for radiation therapy patients, initiation of hormone treatment, or metastases. We assessed the association between independent and combined SNPs and disease progression by Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results: Five SNPs showed independent associations with prostate cancer progression (rs12621278, rs629242, rs9364554, rs4430796, and rs5945572) based on stepwise regression analysis. The strongest SNP was rs12621278 in the ITGA6 locus, which was associated with a 2.4-fold increased risk of progression (P = 0.0003). When considering the sum of risk alleles across these five SNPs, each additional allele was associated with a 29% increase in risk of progression (95% confidence interval, 1.12-1-47).

Conclusions: We found that five of the recently highlighted prostate cancer susceptibility loci also influence prostate cancer progression beyond the known clinicopathologic predictors. If confirmed, these genetic variants might help clarify which tumors are likely to progress and require more aggressive treatment in contrast to those that might not have substantial effects on morbidity or mortality.

Impact: Genetic susceptibility variants for prostate cancer development may also inform disease progression. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2124–32. ©2010 AACR.
Serum Mesothelin for Early Detection of Asbestos-Induced Cancer Malignant Mesothelioma
Authors: Creaney Jenette , Olsen Nola J. , Brims Fraser , Dick Ian M. , Musk Arthur W. , de Klerk Nicholas H. , Skates Steven J. , Robinson Bruce W.S.
Published: September 2010

Background: Malignant mesothelioma is an aggressive, almost uniformly fatal tumor, primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Since the recent discovery that serum mesothelin is a sensitive and highly specific biomarker for mesothelioma, one of the key issues raised is whether mesothelin levels represent a useful screening test for asbestos-exposed at-risk individuals. In this study, soluble mesothelin was determined in sequential serum samples collected from asbestos-exposed individuals before the development of mesothelioma.

Methods: Archival serum samples from 106 individuals who developed mesothelioma, 99 asbestos-exposed individuals from the Wittenoom Cancer Surveillance Program, and 109 non–asbestos-exposed individuals from the Busselton Health Survey were identified. Serum mesothelin concentrations were determined using the MESOMARK assay.

Results: Longitudinal mesothelin levels determined in healthy asbestos-exposed individuals over a period of 4 years were stable (Pearson's r = 0.96; P < 0.0001). There was no correlation between mesothelin concentration and cumulative asbestos exposure. Mesothelin concentrations were greater than the threshold value of 2.5 nmol/L in the penultimate serum sample before the diagnosis of mesothelioma in 17 of 106 people. Using an increase above the 95% confidence interval of the mean of a given individual's longitudinal mesothelin results, 33 of 82 individuals had increasing mesothelin levels before diagnosis.

Conclusion: In a population with a high pretest probability of developing mesothelioma, the serum biomarker mesothelin is elevated in absolute terms in 15% and in relative terms in 40% of the group.

Impact: Future studies examining a combination of biomarkers could improve sensitivity of screening. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2238–46. ©2010 AACR.
Alcohol and Tobacco Use in Relation to Gastric Cancer: A Prospective Study of Men in Shanghai, China
Authors: Moy Kristin A. , Fan Yunhua , Wang Renwei , Gao Yu-Tang , Yu Mimi C. , Yuan Jian-Min
Published: September 2010

Background: Epidemiologic findings of tobacco and alcohol use in relation to gastric cancer are inconsistent. Well-designed prospective studies examining their relationship are sparse.

Methods: The association between cigarette smoking/alcohol intake and gastric cancer risk was examined in a population-based prospective cohort of 18,244 middle-aged and older men in Shanghai, China, who were enrolled in the study during 1986-1989. After up to 20 years of follow-up, 391 incident gastric cancer cases were identified. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results: Ever smokers experienced a statistically significant increased risk of gastric cancer (HR, 1.59; 95% CI, 1.27-1.99) compared with nonsmokers after adjustment for alcohol intake and other confounders. Among nondrinkers, smokers experienced 80% increased risk of gastric cancer (HR, 1.81; 95% CI,1.36, 2.41). Conversely, heavy drinkers experienced a statistically significant increase in risk of gastric cancer (HR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.05-2.04) among all subjects and a statistically nonsignificant 80% increased risk among never smokers. Further adjustment for Helicobacter pylori serology, serum levels of β-carotene and vitamin C, and urinary level of total isothiocyanates in combination with glutathione S-transferase (GST) M1 and GSTT1 genotypes did not materially change the associations between smoking/alcohol consumption and gastric cancer risk.

Conclusions: These results suggest that cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption may exert independent effects on the development of gastric cancer in this high-risk population.

Impact: Modification of these lifestyle choices may reduce the incidence of gastric cancer. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 19(9); 2287–97. ©2010 AACR.
Perspective on the Pipeline of Drugs Being Developed with Modulation of DNA Damage as a Target
Authors: Plummer Ruth
Published: September 2010

Inhibitors of various elements of the DNA repair pathways have entered clinical development or are in late preclinical stages of drug development. It was initially considered that agents targeting DNA repair would act to overcome tumor resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. More recent data have shown that targeting DNA repair pathways can be effective in selected tumors via a synthetically lethal route, with single agent activity having been shown with poly-ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. An increased understanding of the biology and interaction of the DNA repair pathways also means that rational combination of DNA repair inhibitors may also give great benefit in the clinic. Clin Cancer Res; 16(18); 4527–31. ©2010 AACR.
Late Vascular Responses From 2 to 4 Years After Implantation of Sirolimus-Eluting Stents
Authors: Takano Masamichi , Yamamoto Masanori , Mizuno Masayuki , Murakami Daisuke , Inami Toru , Kimata Nakahisa , Murai Koji , Kobayashi Nobuaki , Okamatsu Kentaro , Ohba Takayoshi , Seino Yoshihiko , Mizuno Kyoichi
Published: September 2010

Background—

Late vascular responses after implantation of drug-eluting stents may play a key role in steadily increasing occurrence of very late stent thrombosis have not yet been fully investigated in human beings.

Methods and Results—

Serial optical coherence tomography observations at 2 and 4 years were collected for 17 patients treated with 21 sirolimus-eluting stents. Corresponding 376 cross sections within single-stent segments at intervals of 1 mm were selected for analyses, and neointimal thickness on each strut was measured. Extrastent lumen (ESL) was defined as an external lumen of the stent. Area and angle of ESL were measured. A total of 3369 and 3221 struts were identified at 2 and 4 years, respectively. From 2 to 4 years, mean neointimal thickness increased (76.8±75.6 μm versus 123.0±102.5 μm;
P
<0.0001), whereas frequency of patients with uncovered struts decreased (88% versus 29%;
P
=0.002). Although prevalence of patients that had ESL was similar (59% of 2 years versus 65% of 4 years;
P
=1.0), the cross sections with ESL increased (9.6% versus 15.2%;
P
=0.02). Moreover, area and angle of ESL increased from 2 to 4 years (0.28±0.27 mm
2
versus 0.62±0.68 mm
2
and 16.6±5.4° versus 65.1±38.4°;
P
<0.01, respectively). The incidence of subclinical thrombus did not decrease (24% at 2 years versus 29% at 4 years;
P
=1.0). All thrombi were identified in patients who had cross sections with ESL.

Conclusions—

The current serial optical coherence tomography study showed an augmentation of neointimal growth at the late phase of sirolimus-eluting stent implantation. ESL may contribute to thrombus formation and ESL of sirolimus-eluting stents expanded from 2 to 4 years.
Endothelin-1 Increases Glomerular Permeability and Inflammation Independent of Blood Pressure in the Rat
Authors: Saleh Mohamed A. , Boesen Erika I. , Pollock Jennifer S. , Savin Virginia J. , Pollock David M.
Published: September 2010

Endothelin (ET) 1 is a potent vasoactive peptide implicated in the pathogenesis of hypertension and renal disease. The aim of the current study was to test the hypotheses that ET-1 increases albumin permeability of glomeruli isolated from normal rats and that chronic ET-1 infusion will increase glomerular permeability and inflammation independent of blood pressure. Glomerular permeability to albumin was determined from the change in glomerular volume induced by exposing isolated glomeruli to oncotic gradients. Incubation of glomeruli taken from normal rats with ET-1 at a concentration that did not produce direct glomerular contraction (1 nmol/L) significantly increased glomerular permeability to albumin, reaching a maximum after 4 hours. Chronic ET-1 infusion for 2 weeks in Sprague-Dawley rats significantly increased glomerular permeability to albumin and nephrin excretion rate, effects that were attenuated in rats given an ET
A
receptor antagonist (ABT-627, 5 mg/kg per day). Urinary protein and albumin excretion and mean arterial pressure (telemetry) were not changed by ET-1 infusion. Acute incubation of glomeruli isolated from ET-1–infused rats with the selective ET
A
antagonist significantly reduced glomerular permeability to albumin, an effect not observed with acute treatment with a selective ET
B
antagonist. Chronic ET-1 infusion increased glomerular and plasma soluble intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 and elevated the number of macrophages and lymphocytes in renal cortices (ED-1 and CD3-positive staining, respectively). These effects were all attenuated in rats given an ET
A
selective antagonist. These data support the hypothesis that ET-1 directly increases glomerular permeability to albumin and renal inflammation via ET
A
receptor activation independent of changes in arterial pressure.
Effects on Peripheral and Central Blood Pressure of Cocoa With Natural or High-Dose Theobromine
Authors: van den Bogaard Bas , Draijer Richard , Westerhof Berend E. , van den Meiracker Anton H. , van Montfrans Gert A. , van den Born Bert-Jan H.
Published: September 2010

Flavanol-rich cocoa products have been reported to lower blood pressure. It has been suggested that theobromine is partially responsible for this effect. We tested whether consumption of flavanol-rich cocoa drinks with natural or added theobromine could lower peripheral and central blood pressure. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled 3-period crossover trial we assigned 42 healthy individuals (age 62±4.5 years; 32 men) with office blood pressure of 130 to 159 mm Hg/85 to 99 mm Hg and low added cardiovascular risk to a random treatment sequence of dairy drinks containing placebo, flavanol-rich cocoa with natural dose consisting of 106 mg of theobromine, or theobromine-enriched flavanol-rich cocoa with 979 mg of theobromine. Treatment duration was 3 weeks with a 2-week washout. The primary outcome was the difference in 24-hour ambulatory systolic blood pressure between placebo and active treatment after 3 weeks. The difference in central systolic blood pressure between placebo and active treatment was a secondary outcome. Treatment with theobromine-enriched cocoa resulted in a mean±SE of 3.2±1.1 mm Hg higher 24-hour ambulatory systolic blood pressure compared with placebo (
P
<0.01). In contrast, 2 hours after theobromine-enriched cocoa, laboratory peripheral systolic blood pressure was not different from placebo, whereas central systolic blood pressure was 4.3±1.4 mm Hg lower (
P
=0.001). Natural dose theobromine cocoa did not significantly change either 24-hour ambulatory or central systolic blood pressure compared with placebo. In conclusion, theobromine-enriched cocoa significantly increased 24-hour ambulatory systolic blood pressure while lowering central systolic blood pressure.
To access is not to know: A critical reflection on A2K and the role of libraries with special reference to sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Lor Peter Johan , Britz Johannes
Published: September 2010

This paper critically examines the notions of the ‘knowledge society’ and ‘access to knowledge’ to uncover some underlying assumptions, with special reference to sub-Saharan Africa. We borrow from constructivist learning theory and argue that it is helpful to see knowledge as a process rather than as an outcome or state. In discussions of access to knowledge, much emphasis has been placed on the physical dimension of access (connectivity, bandwidth and the digital divide) and on the legal, economic and political dimensions that form the embattled terrain of the ‘Access to Knowledge’ movement. However, if knowledge is conceptualized as a process, the concept of ‘access’ has to be extended to the epistemological dimension, which takes into account the construction of knowledge in the mind of the individual while interacting with the community. This has important implications for libraries. We suggest the deployment of re-skilled and re-motivated information intermediaries working in and around libraries to motivate, teach, interpret and facilitate ‘access’ to knowledge.
Lower vitamin D levels are associated with depression among community-dwelling European men
Authors: Lee David M , Tajar Abdelouahid , O’Neill Terence W , O’Connor Daryl B , Bartfai Gyorgy , Boonen Steven , Bouillon Roger , Casanueva Felipe F , Finn Joseph D , Forti Gianni , Giwercman Aleksander , Han Thang S , Huhtaniemi Ilpo T , Kula Krzysztof , Lean Michael EJ , Punab Margus , Silman Alan J , Vanderschueren Dirk , Wu Frederick CW , Pendleton Neil ,   the EMAS study group
Published: September 2010

Low serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and elevated parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels have been linked with depressive symptoms among adults in various clinical settings. Data in generally healthy, community-dwelling individuals remain inconclusive. We investigated whether depression was associated with 25(OH)D and/or PTH in a sample of middle-aged and older men ( n = 3369; mean age 60 ± 11) participating in the European Male Ageing Study, and whether any associations were explained by lifestyle and health factors. The Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II) was used to screen for depression, and serum 25(OH)D and PTH levels measured by radioimmunoassay. Univariate analysis revealed that 25(OH)D levels were lower ( p < 0.001) and PTH higher ( p = 0.004) in people with depression. In age- and centre-adjusted linear regressions a higher BDI-II score was significantly associated with lower levels of 25(OH)D ( p = 0.004). After adjustment for lifestyle and health factors this relationship was attenuated but remained significant ( p = 0.01). Using multivariable logistic regression the odds for depression increased approximately 70% across decreasing 25(OH)D quartiles ( ptrend = 0.04). There was no independent association between PTH and depression in any of the multivariable regressions. Our results reveal an inverse association between 25(OH)D levels and depression, largely independent of several lifestyle and health factors. Further studies are required to determine whether higher levels of vitamin D have an antidepressant effect in older adults.
Buckling of axially loaded composite plates with restrained edges
Authors: Tarján Gabriella , Kollár László P
Published: September 2010

Approximate expressions to determine the lowest buckling load of short and long composite plates are presented. The plate is subjected to uniaxial compressive load. All the four edges of the plate are elastically restrained by springs or stiffeners. Explicit expressions for the calculation of the lowest buckling load are presented as a function of the plate’s length. The derived expressions were compared to numerical solutions investigating the entire parameter range.
Stitch fiber comparison for improvement of interlaminar fracture toughness in stitched composites
Authors: Tan KT , Watanabe N. , Iwahori Y.
Published: September 2010

In this study, strain energy release rates are measured and compared for laminated composites reinforced by through-thickness stitching using different stitch fiber materials — Carbon, Kevlar, and Vectran. Strain energy release rates are evaluated experimentally using the DCB test and validated computationally using FEA. The FE model of the stitched composite incorporates a novel four-step stitch fracture process, namely: interfacial debonding, slack absorption, fiber breakage, and pull-out friction. The FE predictions of GIC show good agreement with the experimental results. It is revealed that the relationship between G IC and stitch density, or stitch thread volume fraction for all stitch materials follow a linear law. It is concluded that Vectran provides the toughest interlaminar reinforcement and is most suitable for stitch fiber application. The characterization and difference in fracture behavior between Vectran and Kevlar stitch fibers, by using a novel Interlaminar Tension Test (ITT), are presented and discussed.
The Next Wave
Authors: Morrow James D.
Published: September 2010

A Presidential Address provides one with the opportunity to look backwards and forward. Backwards to understand how we got to where we are now; forwards to suggest paths to further progress. I will focus on the range of research methods that the members of the Society use, how they have evolved during my engagement with the Society, and some suggestions of how we can develop them further.
Effects of 50 Hertz-1 mT magnetic field on action potential in isolated rat sciatic nerve
Authors: Coşkun Özlem , Naziroğlu Mustafa , Çömlekçi Selçuk , Özkorucuklu Suat
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate possible effects of 50 Hz-1 mT magnetic field (MF) on action potential in isolated rat sciatic nerve. We used 16 Wistar rats in the study. They were divided into control (n = 10) and MF (n = 6) groups. The sciatic nerve of left legs in the MF group was exposed to 50 Hz-1 mT MF for 30 min by using a Helmholtz applicator and then action potentials in control and experimental groups were recorded extracellularly. Maximum amplitude and hyperpolarization time and action potential were significantly (p ≤ 0.025) lower in the MF group than in control. However, conduction time, minimum amplitude, depolarization and repolarization times of the action potential was not different between control and MF groups evaluated. In conclusion, 50-1 mT MF caused to decrease amplitude value and hyperpolarization time of action potential in the rat nerve.
The efficiacy of bismuth subnitrate against genotoxicity and oxidative stress induced by aluminum sulphate
Authors: Turkez Hasan , Geyikoglu Fatime
Published: September 2010

Aluminum (Al) is commonly used in industrial processes and drugs and is thought to induce erythrocytes damage via activation of oxidative stress. Recently, bismuth (Bi)-containing drugs are used in the treatment of various diseases. However, uncertain effects of Bi in blood tissue may participate in the therapeutic efficacy of Bi compounds as related to metals. Hence, this study aimed to determine the roles on human blood cells of the various concentrations of aluminum sulphate (Al2(SO4)3) and bismuth subnitrate (BSN), separate and together. With this aim, oxidative status was assessed on erythrocytes by measuring following oxidative stress markers: reduced glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH) and catalase (CAT). Two chemicals were tested for their ability to induce cytogenetic change in human lymphocytes using assays for chromosome aberrations (CAs) and sister chromatid exchanges (SCEs). Our results showed that high dose of Al2(SO4)3(20 µg/mL) caused oxidative stress and increased CA and SCE frequencies. Whereas, BSN doses did not change CA and SCE rates. Moreover, it led to changes of antioxidant capacity at different concentrations. After concomitant treatment with Al2(SO4)3and BSN, the effects of BSN doses were different on enzyme activities and decreased the genotoxic damage. However, the high dose of BSN and Al2(SO4)3was shown to enhance the frequencies of CAs and SCEs in a synergistic manner. In conclusion, BSN could be effective in the protection against the blood toxicity of Al2(SO4)3.
Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) exposure induces oxidative stress in epididymis of adult rats
Authors: Zhou Dangxia , Wang Haixu , Zhang Jing
Published: September 2010

Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP) is a ubiquitous environmental pollutant, extensively used as a plasticizer in many products including plastics, cosmetics and medical devices. Previous studies have shown that DBP has potential testicular toxicity. Epididymis is known to play an important role in the maturation and storage of sperm. However, the effect and mechanism of action of DBP on epididymis is unclear. The present study was designed to investigate the effect of DBP on structure and function of epididymis in adult male rats by histological and biochemical study. Oxidative stress was also assessed in rat epididymis as an underlying mechanism. Forty SD adult rats were randomly allotted to four groups, and DBP was administered to each group by oral gavage at doses of 0 (control), 100, 250 and 500 mg/kg/day for 2 consecutive weeks. The results indicated that the epididymal toxicity of DBP is dose-dependent. Epididymal weight, activities of epididymal alpha-glucosidase and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) was significantly decreased in rats of 500 mg/kg DBP exposure group compared to the control. The activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly decreased while the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) was significantly increased in the epididymal tissue of the 250 and 500 mg/kg DBP exposure groups compared with the control group. Moreover, microscopy with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining showed that atrophy of epididymal tubules, the interstitial vascular was hyperemia and the lumina were oligozoospermic in rats of 500 mg/kg DBP exposure group. In conclusion, DBP exposure alters the epididymal structure and function by inducing oxidative stress in epididymis of adult rats.
Dandy-Walker Malformation Masking the Molar Tooth Sign: An Illustrative Case With Magnetic Resonance Imaging Follow-up
Authors: Sartori Stefano , Ludwig Kathrin , Fortuna Manuela , Marzocchi Cinzia , Calderone Milena , Toldo Irene , Salviati Leonardo , Laverda Anna Maria , Tenconi Romano
Published: September 2010

Joubert syndrome is a disorder characterized by ataxia, developmental delay, oculomotor anomalies, and breathing irregularities, with cerebellar vermian and midbrain dysgenesis. The molar tooth sign, reflecting the midbrain dysgenesis of Joubert syndrome, is the neuroradiological hallmark and is an essential sign in the identification of this condition. Variable vermian agenesis, an expanded fourth ventricle, and a large posterior cranial fossa with a normal brainstem are typical of Dandy-Walker malformation. The authors report a case in which a Dandy-Walker malformation coexisted with Joubert syndrome, but initially prevented the ‘‘molar tooth sign’’ from being recognized because of an important cystic dilatation of the fourth ventricle. In this article, they discuss the importance of the re-examination of brain magnetic resonance features after decompression of the posterior cranial fossa in a patient with Dandy-Walker malformation and additional clinical neurological or systemic abnormalities typical of Joubert syndrome, to not miss the correct diagnosis.
Acute Necrotizing Encephalopathy of Childhood With Spinal Cord Involvement: A Case Report
Authors: Weng Wen-Chin , Peng Steven Shinn-Forng , Lee Wang-Tso
Published: September 2010

Acute necrotizing encephalopathy of childhood is a rare acute encephalopathy occurring after febrile illness with subsequent rapid deterioration of consciousness and convulsions. Typical brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings are symmetric involvement of the bilateral thalami, brainstem, and cerebral periventricular white matter or the cerebellum. Spinal cord involvement has never been reported. This report describes a healthy 2-year-old girl, who displayed typical clinical manifestations of acute necrotizing encephalopathy. Brain MRI demonstrated symmetrical lesions over the bilateral thalami and periventricular white matter. The clinical features and radiologic images suggested spinal cord involvement. This is the first reported case of acute necrotizing encephalopathy with spinal cord involvement. Spinal cord lesions are, therefore, possible in cases of acute necrotizing encephalopathy of childhood, and these require special attention.
Expanding Phenotype and Clinical Analysis of Tyrosine Hydroxylase Deficiency
Authors: Yeung Wai-lan , Wong Virginia C. N. , Chan Kwok-yin , Hui Joannie , Fung Cheuk-wing , Yau Eric , Ko Chun-hung , Lam Ching-wan , Mak Chloe M. , Siu Simon , Low Louis
Published: September 2010

This study included 12 Chinese patients with a wide spectrum of phenotypes of tyrosine hydroxylase deficiency. Seven females and 5 males, aged 2.2 to 41 years, had phenotypes ranging from severe type with onset at infancy to mild type with onset after 3 years of age. Patients with the severe type had encephalopathy with poor treatment response or infantile parkinsonism with motor delay. Patients with the less common mild type had dopa-responsive dystonia or a newly recognized predominant symptom of myopathy. Female siblings had more severe phenotypes. The phenotype and treatment outcomes were strongly related to a homovanillic acid level and homovanillic acid/5-hydroxyindolacetic acid ratio of less than 1 in the cerebrospinal fluid. Hyperprolactinemia was found in 50% of the severe cases. Levodopa was the mainstay of treatment, and early addition of selegiline resulted in a remarkable response in some patients. Treatment response for mild-type patients is universally good even with a treatment delay of 10 years after onset of neurological symptoms.
How and Why Do Criminal Justice Public Policies Spread Throughout U.S. States? A Critical Review of the Diffusion Literature
Authors: Bergin Tiffany
Published: September 2010

Why do some criminal justice public policies spread rapidly throughout U.S. states, and other policies never take hold? To answer this question, this article presents the first review specifically of studies that have examined the diffusion of criminal justice policies throughout U.S. states. After a comprehensive review of key research databases, 23 studies are identified. The key findings of these studies are analyzed in great depth, with particular reference to cross-study differences in how three variables from the general policy literature—geographic proximity, political ideology, and media attention—were operationalized. The article identifies important gaps in current knowledge about the factors that affect the diffusion of criminal justice policies and suggests several directions for future research in this area.
Teacher Unionization in School Governance
Authors: Jacoby Dan
Published: September 2010

The role of unions in school governance is reviewed to note that labor operates in a larger context of principal—agent relationships. As agents for teachers, unions articulate the concerns that must be addressed if teachers are to be successfully enlisted in the struggle to reduce achievement gaps among at-risk students. Transcending industrial age adversarial relationships requires that the professional role of teachers be harnessed in school governance through union contracts. This transformation will not be easy because it requires labor to assume difficult responsibilities for performance. Unions have indicated that they are ready to accept accountability measures but implementation will require improved training and cooperation.
Reconsidering Theoretical Progress in Organizational and Management Research
Authors: Edwards Jeffrey R.
Published: September 2010

Theory development is a high priority in organizational and management research. However, theory development is often equated with building new theory, a practice that is rewarded in the publication process and encouraged by norms that pervade the field. This practice has produced a proliferation of theories, most of which are not exposed to rigorous empirical research that probes core propositions and puts theories at risk. In the interest of theory development, management and organizational research would make better progress if we devoted more attention to theoretical refinement, conducting research that identifies the boundaries and limitations of theories, stages competitive tests between rival theories, and increases the precision of theories so they yield strong predictions that can be falsified. These issues are addressed by the articles that constitute this feature topic, with the goal of enhancing theoretical progress in management and organizational research.
Heterogeneous Roles and Heterogeneous Practices: Understanding the Adoption and Uses of Nonprofit Performance Evaluations
Authors: Eckerd Adam , Moulton Stephanie
Published: September 2010

Evaluating the performance of nonprofit organizations has been of growing importance for the last several decades. Although there is much good that can come out of self-improvement, there is substantial heterogeneity within the sector that calls into question the usefulness of ‘‘across the board’’ evaluation tools. In this article, the authors assess nonprofit evaluation practices, at both the organizational and the programmatic levels. Through a multitheoretical framework, the authors explore the extent to which the adoption and uses of evaluation reflect strategic alignment with heterogeneous nonprofit roles or the institutionalization of the organizational environment. The authors find evidence that institutional perceptions are consistent predictors of whether nonprofit organizations adopt particular practices. Diverse roles are not consistently associated with the adoption of particular practices, but the uses of evaluation are diverse and specific to nonprofit organizations’ unique strategies and roles.
The work of surfaces: object worlds and techniques of enhancement in the ancient Andes
Authors: Lau George F.
Published: September 2010

This study is an examination of techniques in the Recuay culture (1—700 AD) of ancient Peru. In addition to identifying things that look alike, it reviews different procedures by which they were made to resemble each other. The author examines shared techniques across different media and forms, which helped to shape a general noble aesthetic. Three main points are discussed: first, the techniques share a similar emphasis on enhancing surfaces by conceiving and applying the designs in terms of their negative space or adjacent background. Second, the different technical procedures constructed the exterior worlds of chiefs, their social and physical structures, by saturating special objects and settings with surface elements related to nobility. Finally, it is suggested that the techniques distinguished Recuay value systems from those of neighbouring groups and cultures.
Ethical dilemmas before and during anaesthetic induction of young children, as described by nurse anaesthetists
Authors: Runeson Ingrid , Proczkowska-Björklund Marie , Idvall Ewa
Published: September 2010

Research on physicians’, nurses’ and enrolled nurses’ experiences of ethical dilemmas have been conducted in many healthcare fields. The aim of this study was to elucidate ethical dilemmas before and during the induction of anaesthesia of children aged three to six years as described by nurse anaesthetists (NAs). Two group interviews with NAs were conducted where they were asked to describe ethically problematic situations. Three situations were chosen from a total of 15: administration of anaesthesia to an already sleeping child, lack of information given to a child, and a child is anaesthetized against his/her will. Conceivable and reasonable alternative options were identified and consequences of the different actions were presented. Finally the conflicts of value were discussed and commented on. The cases describe when a child’s rights are given less weight and the child has little opportunity to participate in the decision making. However, parents and NAs acted in the best interest of the child. Analysing and reflecting on situations involving ethical dilemmas would enhance NAs critical thinking and guide NAs in their decision making when providing anaesthesia care.
Do excessive internet use, television viewing and poor lifestyle habits affect low vision in school children?
Authors: Bener Abdulbari , Al-Mahdi Huda S , Vachhani Pankit J , Al-Nufal Mohammed , Ali Awab I
Published: September 2010

The aim of this study is to determine whether excessive internet use, television viewing and the ensuing poor lifestyle habits affect low vision in school children in a rapidly developing country. This is a cross-sectional study and 3000 school students aged between six and 18 years were approached and 2467 (82.2%) students participated. Of the studied school children 12.6 percent had low vision. Most of the low vision school children were in the 6—10 years age group and came from middle income backgrounds (41.8%; p = 0.008). A large proportion of the children with low vision spent ≥ 3 hours per day on the internet (48.2%; p< 0.001) and ≥ 3 hours reclining (62.4%; p < 0.001). A significantly smaller frequency of studied children with low vision participated in each of the reviewed forms of physical activity ( p < 0.001) yet a larger proportion consumed fast food (86.8%; p < 0.001). Highly significant positive correlations were found between low vision and BMI, hours spent reclining and on the internet respectively. Blurred vision was the most commonly complained of symptom among the studied children ( p < 0.001). The current study suggested a strong association between spending prolonged hours on the computer or TV, fast food eating, poor lifestyle habits and low vision.
Associations of high-risk behaviour and HIV status with HIV knowledge among persons in Tallinn, Estonia
Authors: Parker R. David , Rüütel Kristi
Published: September 2010

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the associations between the level of HIV knowledge, HIV-related risk behaviours, and HIV status among persons receiving voluntary counselling and testing services in Tallinn, Estonia. Design: A cross-sectional study design was used. Methods: A total of 772 subjects completed a 47-item questionnaire gathering information on demographics, HIV-related risk behaviours, and HIV-related knowledge. Participant’s HIV status was determined by an anonymous rapid test. Only incident HIV cases were included in regression analyses. An analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) modelling evaluated associations between HIV knowledge and high-risk behaviours while multivariable logistic regression assessed association between HIV status and HIV knowledge. Results: The final ANCOVA model indicates that HIV risk behaviours are significantly associated with HIV knowledge (p = 0.01). Compared to participants with no identified high-risk behaviour, the adjusted mean score of HIV knowledge was higher among persons sharing injection equipment (p = 0.05), and persons engaging in unprotected heterosexual intercourse (p = 0.03); there was no statistical difference observed among men engaging in unprotected sex with other men. Women had higher mean scores than men (p = 0.01) and persons of ‘‘other’’ ethnicities had a higher mean knowledge score than ethnic Estonians (p = 0.01) and Russians (p < 0.01). Logistic regression indicated that mean knowledge was higher among participants who tested HIV positive (OR = 1.42; 95% CI = 1.12—1.87). Conclusions: In this sample, higher knowledge scores were not associated with lower infection rates. These results indicate the importance of targeting all high-risk groups in HIV prevention and education programmes.
The life and times of Hugh Owen Thomas
Authors: Wren Sarah , Ashwood Neil
Published: September 2010

A brief summary of the ancestry and life of Hugh Owen Thomas.
Knowing What to Do: A Rededication to the Scholarly Mission of Creativity, Intelligence, and Humanity
Authors: Villaverde Leila E. , Carter Roymieco A.
Published: September 2010

How does one start to pinpoint or mark the impact one being has had on others? As we recollect our many moments with Joe, two important factors in any learning experience came to mind, langugage and lineage... most significantly through the sharing of stories and deciphering of imagery. With these experiences all too fresh in our minds, below we construct a textual/visual bricolage of unforgettable traces of Joe's impact on us, as teachers, thinkers, scholars, artists and most of all human beings.
Exploring the role of monitoring anti-TNFα drug and antibody levels in the management of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Lim Allen W. , Panaccione Remo , Seow Cynthia H.
Published: September 2010

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal disorders which often result in significant morbidity or surgery. Current treatment options are not curative and may cause significant adverse effects. The introduction of anti-tumour necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNFα) therapy over a decade ago was a welcome addition to the therapeutic armamentarium and revolutionized the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Despite their relative success, a significant proportion of patients with IBD fail to respond or subsequently lose response anti-TNFα therapy. This review identifies and explores the role of drug levels and immunogenicity (antibody formation) on the efficacy of anti-TNFα therapy and details how monitoring these parameters may help to optimize the management of patients with IBD.
Gill transcriptome response to changes in environmental calcium in the green spotted puffer fish
Authors: Pinto Patrícia IS , Matsumura Hideo , Thorne Michael AS , Power Deborah M , Terauchi Ryohei , Reinhardt Richard , Canário Adelino VM
Published: September 2010

Background

Calcium ion is tightly regulated in body fluids and for euryhaline fish, which are exposed to rapid changes in environmental [Ca2+], homeostasis is especially challenging. The gill is the main organ of active calcium uptake and therefore plays a crucial role in the maintenance of calcium ion homeostasis. To study the molecular basis of the short-term responses to changing calcium availability, the whole gill transcriptome obtained by Super Serial Analysis of Gene Expression (SuperSAGE) of the euryhaline teleost green spotted puffer fish,Tetraodon nigroviridis, exposed to water with altered [Ca2+] was analysed.

Results

Transfer ofT. nigroviridisfrom 10 ppt water salinity containing 2.9 mM Ca2+to high (10 mM Ca2+) and low (0.01 mM Ca2+) calcium water of similar salinity for 2-12 h resulted in 1,339 differentially expressed SuperSAGE tags (26-bp transcript identifiers) in gills. Of these 869 tags (65%) were mapped toT. nigroviridiscDNAs or genomic DNA and 497 (57%) were assigned to known proteins. Thirteen percent of the genes matched multiple tags indicating alternative RNA transcripts. The main enriched gene ontology groups belong to Ca2+signaling/homeostasis but also muscle contraction, cytoskeleton, energy production/homeostasis and tissue remodeling.K-means clustering identified co-expressed transcripts with distinct patterns in response to water [Ca2+] and exposure time.

Conclusions

The generated transcript expression patterns provide a framework of novel water calcium-responsive genes in the gill during the initial response after transfer to different [Ca2+]. This molecular response entails initial perception of alterations, activation of signaling networks and effectors and suggests active remodeling of cytoskeletal proteins during the initial acclimation process. Genes related to energy production and energy homeostasis are also up-regulated, probably reflecting the increased energetic needs of the acclimation response. This study is the first genome-wide transcriptome analysis of fish gills and is an important resource for future research on the short-term mechanisms involved in the gill acclimation responses to environmental Ca2+changes and osmoregulation.
Mechanism of endothelial progenitor cell recruitment into neo-vessels in adjacent non-tumor tissues in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yu De-cai , Chen Jun , Sun Xi-tai , Zhuang Lin-yuan , Jiang Chun-ping , Ding Yi-tao
Published: September 2010

Background

We investigated the distribution and clinical significance of mobilized endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We found that many more EPCs were recruited to nonmalignant liver tissue (especially into adjacent non-tumor tissues (AT)) than to tumor vessels. These results suggest that the mechanism underlying the recruitment of EPCs into microvessels in AT merits further investigation

Methods

Angiogenic factors were detected in three tissue microarrays comprising normal liver, paired tumor tissue (TT) and AT from 105 patients (who had undergone hepatectomy for HCC) using immunohistochemistry. Also, the number of EPCs (positive for Sca-1, Flk-1 and c-Kit) in the blood and liver of cirrhotic mice were determined by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry. The distribution of these labeled EPCs in tumor and non-tumor tissues was then studied.

Results

The results from the tissue microarrays showed that the expression levels of VEGF-A, bFGF, TGF-β, MCP-1, TSP-1, MMP-9, TIMP-2, and endostatin were significantly higher in AT than in either normal liver or TT (p < 0.05), but no significant difference was found in the expression levels of COX-2 and NOS-2 between AT and TT. The expression of VEGF-A, bFGF, TGF-β, MCP-1, TSP-1, MMP-9, TIMP-2, endostatin, COX-2, and NOS-2 in normal liver tissue was weaker than that in AT or TT. In cirrhotic mice, the number of circulating endothelial progenitor cells gradually increased, before decreasing again. In this mouse model, increased numbers of EPCs were recruited and homed specifically to the cirrhotic liver.

Conclusions

Both liver cirrhosis and HCC led to increased expression of pro-angiogenic factors, which resulted in the recruitment of EPCs into AT. Also, EPCs were mobilized, recruited and homed to cirrhotic liver. The unique pathology of HCC coupled with liver cirrhosis may, therefore, be associated with the distribution and function of EPCs.