bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Under Pressure in the NBA
Authors: Zheng Cao  , Price Joseph , Stone Daniel F.
Published: May 2011

The authors analyze the effects of psychological pressure on performance using National Basketball Association (NBA) free throw data from the 2002-2003 through 2009-2010 seasons. The authors find evidence that players choke under pressure— they shoot on average 5-10 percentage points worse than normal in the final seconds of very close games. Choking is more likely for players who are worse overall free throw shooters, and on the second shot of a pair after the first shot is missed. In general, performance declines as pressure increases (as game time remaining decreases, and as the score margin decreases, whether the shooter’s team is winning or losing). However, the authors find no evidence of choking when games are tied in the final 15 seconds. The authors also fail to find evidence of performance under pressure being affected by home status, attendance, and whether or not the game is in the playoffs.
The Social Worker—A Novel: The Advantages of Fictional Re-Presentations of Life Narratives
Authors: Ungar Michael
Published: May 2011

Publication of The Social Worker: A Novel (Ungar, 2011b) is an example of how fiction can be used to re-present life narratives from qualitative research. Contrasting samples of text from multiple modes of my writing (fiction, trade nonfiction, professional, and academic), I highlight four aspects of the novel that are congruent with qualitative inquiry: (a) fiction challenges writers and readers to shed assumptions by immersing us in the world of the other; (b) fiction exposes that which is not named or too intuitive to be crisply identified, opening possibilities to articulate discursively marginal points of view; (c) fiction makes clear the presence of the narrator; and (d) fiction acknowledges that the reader is actively present, interpreting that which is read. Discussion of each of these four aspects of re-presentation suggests congruence between the goals of qualitative research and the performance of writing fiction. The complex relationship between subjectivity and this performance is explored.
The Purchase of Enlightenment
Authors: Knudson Sarah
Published: May 2011

In Eat Pray Love, the film adaptation of author Elizabeth Gilbert’s tale of travel and self-discovery, we see American consumer culture on display. Lucrative industries are ready to help women navigate crises of identity, but these solutions might be nothing more than salves.
Road Warriors and Water Hogs
Authors: Rudel Thomas K.
Published: May 2011

While globalization has expanded the flow of goods, environmental movements have worked to constrain these flows by constructing local-based networks. Conover traces four routes of globalization, while Berry and Mollard shed light on the environmental challenges these routes create.
Reviewing the Benefits of Physical Activity During Cancer Survivorship
Authors: Sabiston Catherine M. , Brunet Jennifer
Published: May 2011

Increasing physical activity is a possible strategy for the prevention and/or treatment of many physical and mental health conditions that are experienced among cancer survivors. Although engaging in physical activity is safe, feasible, and effective for cancer survivors, few are sufficiently active to obtain health benefits. This review summarizes findings from published research studies and review articles to highlight the benefits of physical activity for cancer survivors. For the purpose of this review, a cancer survivor is defined as an individual who has been diagnosed with cancer and who has completed all systemic or primary treatments. This review includes evidence from a wide range of sources to help provide a holistic summary of both quantitative and qualitative findings on the benefits of physical activity for cancer survivors. The benefits are presented within survival, biological/physiological, psychological, and social themes using a using a broad quality of life model. The evidence suggests physical activity is associated with reduced rates of mortality, improved immune function, improved health-related quality of life, decreased fatigue, improved fitness, maintenance of healthy weight and bone density, improved physical and psychological indicators of well-being, and that physical activity programs can foster social support and feelings of connectedness. This review establishes that physical activity may reduce the various adverse side effects associated with cancer treatments and improve cancer survivors’ physical, psychological and social quality of life facets. Encouraging physical activity is the first step in helping cancer survivors experience long-term health and well-being.
Dismal prognostic value of monosomal karyotype in elderly patients with acute myeloid leukemia: a GOELAMS study of 186 patients with unfavorable cytogenetic abnormalities
Authors: Perrot Aurore , Luquet Isabelle , Pigneux Arnaud , Mugneret Francine , Delaunay Jacques , Harousseau Jean-Luc , Barin Carole , Cahn Jean-Yves , Guardiola Philippe , Himberlin Chantal , Recher Christian , Vey Norbert , Lioure Bruno , Ojeda-Uribe Mario , Fegueux Nathalie , Berthou Christian , Randriamalala Edouard , Béné Marie C. , Ifrah Norbert , Witz Francis ,   for the GOELAMS (Groupe Ouest-Est des Leucémies Aiguës et Maladies du Sang)
Published: May 2011

The prognosis of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is very poor in elderly patients, especially in those classically defined as having unfavorable cytogenetics. The recent monosomal karyotype (MK) entity, defined as 2 or more autosomal monosomies or combination of 1 monosomy with structural abnormalities, has been reported to be associated with a worse outcome than the traditional complex karyotype (CK). In this retrospective study of 186 AML patients older than 60 years, the prognostic influence of MK was used to further stratify elderly patients with unfavorable cytogenetics. CK was observed in 129 patients (69%), and 110 exhibited abnormalities according to the definition of MK (59%). MK+ patients had a complete response rate significantly lower than MK− patients: 37% vs 64% (P = .0008), and their 2-year overall survival was also decreased at 7% vs 22% (P < .0001). In multivariate analysis, MK appeared as the major independent prognostic factor related to complete remission achievement (odds ratio = 2.3; 95% confidence interval, 1-5.4, P = .05) and survival (hazard ratio = 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 1.1-2.5, P = .008). In the subgroup of 129 CK+ patients, survival was dramatically decreased for MK+ patients (8% vs 28% at P = .03). These results demonstrate that MK is a major independent factor of very poor prognosis in elderly AML.
The European Sleep Apnoea Database (ESADA): report from 22 European sleep laboratories
Authors: Hedner J. , Grote L. , Bonsignore M. , McNicholas W. , Lavie P. , Parati G. , Sliwinski P. , Barbé F. , De Backer W. , Escourrou P. , Fietze I. , Kvamme J.A. , Lombardi C. , Marrone O. , Masa J.F. , Montserrat J.M. , Penzel T. , Pretl M. , Riha R. , Rodenstein D. , Saaresranta T. , Schulz R. , Tkacova R. , Varoneckas G. , Vitols A. , Vrints H. , Zielinski J.
Published: May 2011

The European Sleep Apnoea Database (ESADA) reflects a network of 22 sleep disorder centres in Europe enabled by a COST action B26 programme. This ongoing project aims to describe differences in standard clinical care of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and to establish a resource for genetic research in this disorder.

Patients with suspected OSA are consecutively included and followed up according to local clinical standards. Anthropometrics, medical history, medication, daytime symptoms and sleep data (polysomnography or cardiorespiratory polygraphy) are recorded in a structured web-based report form.

5,103 patients (1,426 females, mean±sdage 51.8±12.6 yrs, 79.4% with apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI) ≥5 events·h−1) were included from March 15, 2007 to August 1, 2009. Morbid obesity (body mass index ≥35 kg·m−2) was present in 21.1% of males and 28.6% of females. Cardiovascular, metabolic and pulmonary comorbidities were frequent (49.1%, 32.9% and 14.2%, respectively). Patients investigated with a polygraphic method had a lower AHI than those undergoing polysomnography (23.2±23.5versus29.1±26.3 events·h−1, p<0.0001).

The ESADA is a rapidly growing multicentre patient cohort that enables unique outcome research opportunities and genotyping. The first cross-sectional analysis reveals a high prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic morbidity in patients investigated for OSA.
Validation and comparison of several published prognostic systems for patients with small cell lung cancer
Authors: Paesmans M. , Lafitte J.J. , Lecomte J. , Berghmans T. , Efremidis A. , Giner V. , Van Cutsem O. , Scherpereel A. , Meert A.P. , Leclercq N. , Van Houtte P. , Sculier J.P.
Published: May 2011

The aim of the present study was to validate and compare published prognostic classifications for predicting the survival of patients with small cell lung cancer.

We pooled data from phase III randomised clinical trials, and used Cox models for validation purposes and concordance probability estimates for assessing predictive ability.

We included 693 patients. All the classifications impacted significantly on survival, with hazard ratios (HRs) in the range 1.57–1.68 (all p<0.0001). Median survival times were 16–19 months for the best predicted groups, while they were 6–7 months for the most poorly predicted groups. Most of the paired comparisons were statistically significant. We obtained similar results when restricting the analysis to patients with extensive disease. Multivariate Cox models for fitting survival data were also performed. The HRs for a single covariate were 8.23 (95% CI 5.88–11.69), and 9.46 (6.67–13.50), and for extensive disease were 5.60 (3.13–9.93), 12.49 (5.57–28.01) and 8.83 (4.66–16.64). Concordance probability estimates ranged 0.55–0.65 (overlapping confidence intervals).

Published classifications were validated and suitable for use at a population level. As expected, prediction at an individual level remains problematic. A specific model designed for extensive-disease patients did not appear to perform better.
TheTERT-CLPTM1Llocus for lung cancer predisposes to bronchial obstruction and emphysema
Authors: Wauters E. , Smeets D. , Coolen J. , Verschakelen J. , De Leyn P. , Decramer M. , Vansteenkiste J. , Janssens W. , Lambrechts D.
Published: May 2011

Clinical studies suggest that bronchial obstruction and emphysema increase susceptibility to lung cancer. We assessed the possibility of a common genetic origin and investigated whether the lung cancer susceptibility locus on chromosome 5p15.33 increases the risk for bronchial obstruction and emphysema.

Three variants in the 5p15.33 locus encompassing theTERTandCLPTM1Lgenes were genotyped in 777 heavy smokers and 212 lung cancer patients. Participants underwent pulmonary function tests and computed tomography of the chest, and completed questionnaires assessing smoking behaviour.

The rs31489 C-allele correlated with reduced forced expiratory volume in 1 s (p=0.006). Homozygous carriers of the rs31489 C-allele exhibited increased susceptibility to bronchial obstruction (OR 1.82, 95% CI 1.24–2.69; p=0.002). A similar association was observed for diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (p=0.004). Consistent with this, CC-carriers had an increased risk of emphysema (OR 2.04, 95% CI 1.41–2.94; p=1.73×10−4) and displayed greater alveolar destruction. Finally, CC-carriers also had an increased risk for lung cancer (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.21–2.99; p=0.005), and were more susceptible to developing both lung cancer and bronchial obstruction than lung cancer alone (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.04–4.26; p=0.038).

The rs31489 variant on 5p15.33 is associated with bronchial obstruction, presence and severity of emphysema, and lung cancer.
Do responses to exercise training in cystic fibrosis depend on initial fitness level?
Authors: Gruber W. , Orenstein D.M. , Braumann K.M.
Published: May 2011

The aim of our study was to evaluate the responses to an exercise programme with respect to initial fitness in subjects with cystic fibrosis (CF).

72 subjects (42 female) aged 10–43 yrs (forced expiratory volume in 1 s of 62.0±26.7% predicted) were included. Participants were divided into three groups based on peak oxygen uptake expressed as % predicted. Subjects participated in a multifaceted rehabilitation programme, including five-times-a-week exercise training, for 6 weeks. Exercise and ventilatory capacity were determined by a maximal incremental cycling test. Oxygen uptake, workload and peak cardiac frequency at peak and submaximal workload were used as parameters for exercise capacity and responsiveness to training.

Lung function values were significantly different between groups (p<0.05), and increased after training (p<0.05) only in groups with a lower initial fitness level. Responsiveness to training showed differences between groups (p<0.05) at peak and ventilatory anaerobic threshold (VAT; p<0.05), with higher improvements in subjects with lower initial fitness level.

The improvements in exercise parameters in CF at peak and VAT depended on the fitness level at baseline, independent of lung function. These improvements seen after training were comparable with those seen in healthy subjects, suggesting that responsiveness to exercise is similar in CF and in healthy untrained persons.
Exacerbation of cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary inflammation by Staphylococcus aureus Enterotoxin B in mice
Authors: Huvenne Wouter , Lanckacker Ellen A , Krysko Olga , Bracke Ken R , Demoor Tine , Hellings Peter W , Brusselle Guy G , Joos Guy F , Bachert Claus , Maes Tania
Published: May 2011

Background

Cigarette smoke (CS) is a major risk factor for the development of COPD. CS exposure is associated with an increased risk of bacterial colonization and respiratory tract infection, because of suppressed antibacterial activities of the immune system and delayed clearance of microbial agents from the lungs. Colonization with Staphylococcus aureus results in release of virulent enterotoxins, with superantigen activity which causes T cell activation.

Objective

To study the effect of Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxin B (SEB) on CS-induced inflammation, in a mouse model of COPD.

Methods

C57/Bl6 mice were exposed to CS or air for 4 weeks (5 cigarettes/exposure, 4x/day, 5 days/week). Endonasal SEB (10 μg/ml) or saline was concomitantly applied starting from week 3, on alternate days. 24 h after the last CS and SEB exposure, mice were sacrificed and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and lung tissue were collected.

Results

Combined exposure to CS and SEB resulted in a raised number of lymphocytes and neutrophils in BAL, as well as increased numbers of CD8+ T lymphocytes and granulocytes in lung tissue, compared to sole CS or SEB exposure. Moreover, concomitant CS/SEB exposure induced both IL-13 mRNA expression in lungs and goblet cell hyperplasia in the airway wall. In addition, combined CS/SEB exposure stimulated the formation of dense, organized aggregates of B- and T- lymphocytes in lungs, as well as significant higher CXCL-13 (protein, mRNA) and CCL19 (mRNA) levels in lungs.

Conclusions

Combined CS and SEB exposure aggravates CS-induced inflammation in mice, suggesting that Staphylococcus aureus could influence the pathogenesis of COPD.
Gender differences and determinants of health related quality of life in coronary patients: a follow-up study
Authors: Dueñas María , Ramirez Carmen , Arana Roque , Failde Inmaculada
Published: May 2011

Background

The role of gender differences in Health Related Quality Life (HRQL) in coronary patients is controversial, so understanding the specific determinants of HRQL in men and women might be of clinical importance. The aim of this study was to know the gender differences in the evolution of HRQL at 3 and 6 months after a coronary event, and to identify the key clinical, demographic and psychological characteristics of each gender associated with these changes.

Methods

A follow-up study was carried out, and 175 patients (112 men and 63 women) with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) or unstable angina were studied. The SF-36v1 health questionnaire was used to assess HRQL, and the GHQ-28 (General Health Questionnaire) to measure mental health during follow-up. To study the variables related to changes in HRQL, generalized estimating equation (GEE) models were performed.

Results

Follow-up data were available for 55 men and 25 women at 3 months, and for 35 men and 12 women at 6 months. Observations included: a) Revascularization was performed later in women. b) The frequency of rehospitalization between months 3 and 6 of follow-up was higher in women c) Women had lower baseline scores in the SF-36. d) Men had progressed favourably in most of the physical dimensions of the SF-36 at 6 months, while at the same time women's scores had only improved for Physical Component Summary, Role Physical and Social Functioning; e) the variables determining the decrease in HRQL in men were: worse mental health and angina frequency; and in women: worse mental health, history of the disease, revascularization, and angina frequency.

Conclusions

There are differences in the evolution of HRQL, between men and women after a coronary attack. Mental health is the determinant most frequently associated with HRQL in both genders. However, other clinical determinants of HRQL differed with gender, emphasizing the importance of individualizing the intervention and the content of rehabilitation programs. Likewise, the recognition and treatment of mental disorders in these patients could be crucial.
Efficacy of a strategy for implementing a guideline for the control of cardiovascular risk in a primary healthcare setting: the SIRVA2 study a controlled, blinded community intervention trial randomised by clusters
Authors: Rodríguez-Salvanés Francisco , Novella Blanca , Fernández Luque María Jesús , Sánchez-Gómez Luis María , Ruiz-Díaz Lourdes , Sánchez-Alcalde Rosa , Sierra-García Belén , Mayayo Soledad , Ruiz-López Marta , Loeches Pilar , López-Gónzález Javier , González-Gamarra Amelia
Published: May 2011

This work describes the methodology used to assess a strategy for implementing clinical practice guidelines (CPG) for cardiovascular risk control in a health area of Madrid.

Background

The results on clinical practice of introducing CPGs have been little studied in Spain. The strategy used to implement a CPG is known to influence its final use. Strategies based on the involvement of opinion leaders and that are easily executed appear to be among the most successful.

Aim

The main aim of the present work was to compare the effectiveness of two strategies for implementing a CPG designed to reduce cardiovascular risk in the primary healthcare setting, measured in terms of improvements in the recording of calculated cardiovascular risk or specific risk factors in patients' medical records, the control of cardiovascular risk factors, and the incidence of cardiovascular events.

Methods

This study involved a controlled, blinded community intervention in which the 21 health centres of the Number 2 Health Area of Madrid were randomly assigned by clusters to be involved in either a proposed CPG implementation strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk, or the normal dissemination strategy. The study subjects were patients ≥ 45 years of age whose health cards showed them to belong to the studied health area. The main variable examined was the proportion of patients whose medical histories included the calculation of their cardiovascular risk or that explicitly mentioned the presence of variables necessary for its calculation. The sample size was calculated for a comparison of proportions with alpha = 0.05 and beta = 0.20, and assuming that the intervention would lead to a 15% increase in the measured variables. Corrections were made for the design effect, assigning a sample size to each cluster proportional to the size of the population served by the corresponding health centre, and assuming losses of 20%. This demanded a final sample size of 620 patients. Data were analysed using summary measures for each cluster, both in making estimates and for hypothesis testing. Analysis of the variables was made on an intention-to-treat basis.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01270022
Angiopoietin-1 is associated with cerebral vasospasm and delayed cerebral ischemia in subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Fischer Marlene , Broessner Gregor , Dietmann Anelia , Beer Ronny , Helbok Raimund , Pfausler Bettina , Chemelli Andreas , Schmutzhard Erich , Lackner Peter
Published: May 2011

Background

Angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) and -2 (Ang-2) are keyplayers in the regulation of endothelial homeostasis and vascular proliferation. Angiopoietins may play an important role in the pathophysiology of cerebral vasospasm (CVS). Ang-1 and Ang-2 have not been investigated in this regard so far.

Methods

20 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and 20 healthy controls (HC) were included in this prospective study. Blood samples were collected from days 1 to 7 and every other day thereafter. Ang-1 and Ang-2 were measured in serum samples using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Transcranial Doppler sonography was performed to monitor the occurrence of cerebral vasospasm.

Results

SAH patients showed a significant drop of Ang-1 levels on day 2 and 3 post SAH compared to baseline and HC. Patients, who developed Doppler sonographic CVS, showed significantly lower levels of Ang-1 with a sustained decrease in contrast to patients without Doppler sonographic CVS, whose Ang-1 levels recovered in the later course of the disease. In patients developing cerebral ischemia attributable to vasospasm significantly lower Ang-1 levels have already been observed on the day of admission. Differences of Ang-2 between SAH patients and HC or patients with and without Doppler sonographic CVS were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Ang-1, but not Ang-2, is significantly altered in patients suffering from SAH and especially in those experiencing CVS and cerebral ischemia. The loss of vascular integrity, regulated by Ang-1, might be in part responsible for the development of cerebral vasospasm and subsequent cerebral ischemia.
Relevance of circulating nucleosomes and oncological biomarkers for predicting response to transarterial chemoembolization therapy in liver cancer patients
Authors: Kohles Nikolaus , Nagel Dorothea , Jüngst Dietrich , Durner Jürgen , Stieber Petra , Holdenrieder Stefan
Published: May 2011

Background

Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) therapy is an effective locoregional treatment in hepatocellular cancer (HCC) patients. For early modification of therapy, markers predicting therapy response are urgently required.

Methods

Here, sera of 50 prospectively and consecutively included HCC patients undergoing 71 TACE therapies were taken before and 3 h, 6 h and 24 h after TACE application to analyze concentrations of circulating nucleosomes, cytokeratin-19 fragments (CYFRA 21-1), alpha fetoprotein (AFP), C-reactive protein (CRP) and several liver biomarkers, and to compare these with radiological response to therapy.

Results

While nucleosomes, CYFRA 21-1, CRP and some liver biomarkers increased already 24 h after TACE, percental changes of nucleosome concentrations before and 24 h after TACE and pre- and posttherapeutic values of AFP, gamma-glutamyl-transferase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (AP) significantly indicated the later therapy response (39 progression versus 32 no progression). In multivariate analysis, nucleosomes (24 h), AP (24 h) and TACE number were independent predictive markers. The risk score of this combination model achieved an AUC of 81.8% in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and a sensitivity for prediction of non-response to therapy of 41% at 97% specificity, and of 72% at 78% specificity.

Conclusion

Circulating nucleosomes and liver markers are valuable tools for early estimation of the efficacy of TACE therapy in HCC patients.
Interleukin-11-induced capillary leak syndrome in primary hepatic carcinoma patients with thrombocytopenia
Authors: Kai-Feng Wang , Hong-Ming Pan , Hai-Zhou Lou , Li-Rong Shen , Xi-Yan Zhu
Published: May 2011

Background

Capillary leak syndrome (CLS) is a rare condition characterized by recurrent episodes of generalized edema and severe hypotension associated with hypoproteinemia. Interleukin-11 (IL-11) is a promising therapeutic agent for thrombocytopenia. A direct correlation between IL-11 and CLS has never been reported previously, particularly in patients with hepatic carcinoma.

Case presentation

We describe two cases of CLS after IL-11 administration in two males with thrombocytopenia. Case 1 was a 46-year-old man with recurrence of hepatic carcinoma who was treated with IL-11 (3 mg per day). After four days of therapy, hypotension and hypoproteinemia were detected. The chest X-ray and B ultrasound of the abdomen showed pleural effusion and ascites. IL-11 was then discontinued, fluid resuscitation was performed, and fresh frozen plasma and packed red blood cells were transfused into this patient. The patient had recovered after 19 days of treatment.

Case 2 was a 66-year-old man who had undergone radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for hepatic carcinoma. He was treated with IL-11 (3 mg per day) for thrombocytopenia. After two days of therapy, this patient complained of dyspnea with bilateral edema of the hands. Laboratory values showed hypoproteinemia. IL-11 was stopped and human albumin was transfused at a rate of 10 g per day. On the 4th day, fluid resuscitation was performed. The patient had recovered after treatment for two weeks.

Conclusions

The detection of IL-11-induced CLS supports the hypothesis that CLS could be a severe side effect of IL-11 treatment in some patients. These two case reports also demonstrate that patients with hepatic carcinoma who experience this rare form of CLS after treatment with IL-11 seem to respond to a therapeutic regimen that involves hydroxyethyl starch, albumin, and diuretic therapy. Liver cancer patients might be more susceptible to CLS because of poor liver function and hypersplenia. In addition, bleeding after RFA might be a further inducer of CLS.
Health-related quality of life in French adolescents and adults: norms for the DUKE Health Profile
Authors: Baumann Cédric , Erpelding Marie-Line , Perret-Guillaume Christine , Gautier Arnaud , Régat Stéphanie , Collin Jean-François , Guillemin Francis , Briançon Serge
Published: May 2011

Background

The continual monitoring of population health-related quality of life (HRQoL) with validated instruments helps public health agencies assess, protect, and promote population health. This study aimed to determine norms for the French adolescent and adult general population for the Duke Health Profile (DUKE) questionnaire in a large representative community sample.

Methods

We randomly selected 17,733 French people aged 12 to 75 years old in 2 steps, by households and individuals, from the National Health Barometer 2005, a periodic population study by the French National Institute for Prevention and Health Education. Quality of life and other data were collected by computer-assisted telephone interview.

Results

Normative data for the French population were analyzed by age, gender and self-reported chronic disease. Globally, function scores (best HRQoL=100) for physical, mental, social, and general health, as well as perceived health and self-esteem, were 72.3 (SEM 0.2), 74.6 (0.2), 66.8 (0.1), 71.3 (0.1), 71.3 (0.3), 76.5 (0.1), respectively. Dysfunction scores (worst HRQoL=100) for anxiety, depression, pain and disability domains were 30.9 (0.1), 27.6 (0.2), 34.3 (0.3), 3.1 (0.1), respectively.

Conclusion

The French norms for adolescents and adults for the DUKE could be used as a reference for other studies assessing HRQoL, for specific illnesses, in France and for international comparisons.
Crystal structure of alkyl hydroperoxidase D like protein PA0269 from Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Homology of the AhpD-like structural family
Authors: Clarke Teresa E , Romanov Vladimir , Chirgadze Yuri N , Klomsiri Chananat , Kisselman Gera , Wu-Brown Jean , Poole Leslie B , Pai Emil F , Chirgadze Nickolay Y
Published: May 2011

Background

Alkyl hydroperoxidase activity provides an important antioxidant defense for bacterial cells. The catalytic mechanism requires two peroxidases, AhpC and AhpD, where AhpD plays the role of an essential adaptor protein.

Results

The crystal structure of a putative AhpD from Pseudomonas aeruginosa has been determined at 1.9 Å. The protein has an all-helical fold with a chain topology similar to a known AhpD from Mycobacterium tuberculosis despite a low overall sequence identity of 9%. A conserved two α-helical motif responsible for function is present in both. However, in the P. aeruginosa protein, helices H3, H4 of this motif are located at the N-terminal part of the chain, while in M. tuberculosis AhpD, the corresponding helices H8, H9 are situated at the C-terminus. Residues 24-62 of the putative catalytic region of P. aeruginosa have a higher sequence identity of 33% where the functional activity is supplied by a proton relay system of five residues, Glu36, Cys48, Tyr50, Cys51, and His55, and one structural water molecule. A comparison of five other related hypothetical proteins from various species, assigned to the alkyl hydroperoxidase D-like protein family, shows they contain the same conserved structural motif and catalytic sequence Cys-X-X-Cys. We have shown that AhpD from P. aeruginosa exhibits a weak ability to reduce H2O2 as tested using a ferrous oxidation-xylenol orange (FOX) assay, and this activity is blocked by thiol alkylating reagents.

Conclusion

Thus, this hypothetical protein was assigned to the AhpD-like protein family with peroxidase-related activity. The functional relationship of specific oligomeric structures of AhpD-like structural family is discussed.
PKC isoforms interact with and phosphorylate DNMT1
Authors: Lavoie Geneviève , Estève Pierre-Olivier , Laulan Nathalie Bibens , Pradhan Sriharsa , St-Pierre Yves
Published: May 2011

Background

DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) has been shown to be phosphorylated on multiple serine and threonine residues, based on cell type and physiological conditions. Although recent studies have suggested that protein kinase C (PKC) may be involved, the individual contribution of PKC isoforms in their ability to phosphorylate DNMT1 remains unknown. The PKC family consists of at least 12 isoforms that possess distinct differences in structure, substrate requirement, expression and localization.

Results

Here we show that PKCα, βI, βII, δ, γ, η, ζ and μ preferentially phosphorylate the N-terminal domain of human DNMT1. No such phosphorylation of DNMT1 was observed with PKCε. Using PKCζ as a prototype model, we also found that PKC physically interacts with and phosphorylates DNMT1. In vitro phosphorylation assays conducted with recombinant fragments of DNMT1 showed that PKCζ preferentially phosphorylated the N-terminal region of DNMT1. The interaction of PKCζ with DNMT1 was confirmed by GST pull-down and co-immunoprecipitation experiments. Co-localization experiments by fluorescent microscopy further showed that endogenous PKCζ and DNMT1 were present in the same molecular complex. Endogenous PKCζ activity was also detected when DNMT1 was immunoprecipitated from HEK-293 cells. Overexpression of both PKCζ and DNMT1 in HEK-293 cells, but not of either alone, reduced the methylation status of genes distributed across the genome. Moreover, in vitro phosphorylation of DNMT1 by PKCζ reduced its methytransferase activity.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that phosphorylation of human DNMT1 by PKC is isoform-specific and provides the first evidence of cooperation between PKCζ and DNMT1 in the control of the DNA methylation patterns of the genome.
An interesting journey of an ingested needle: a case report and review of the literature on extra-abdominal migration of ingested Foreign bodies
Authors: Ozkan Zeynep , Kement Metin , Kargı Ahmet B , Censur Zafer , Gezen Fazli C , Vural Selahattin , Oncel Mustafa
Published: May 2011

Swallowed foreign bodies encounter a major problem especially in children, but fortunately they mostly do not cause any related complication and are easily passed with the stool. In this paper, an interesting journey of a needle is presented. A 20-year old female admitted to our emergency service after she had swallowed a sewing machine needle, which is initially observed in the stomach in the plain abdominal radiography. During the follow-up period, the needle traveled through bowels, and surprisingly was observed in the left lung on 10th day of the follow-up. It was removed with a thoracotomy and pneumotomy under the fluoroscopic guidance. The postoperative period was uneventful and the patient was discharged from the hospital on the day 5. We also review the literature on interesting extra-abdominal migrations of swallowing foreign bodies.
Recent advances in nanoparticle formulation of oleanolic acid
Authors: Chen Meiwan , Zhong Zhangfeng , Tan Wen , Wang Shengpeng , Wang Yitao
Published: May 2011

Oleanolic acid (OA) is a natural triterpenoid possessing anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antiviral, hepatoprotective and antihyperlipidemic effects. Research on the pharmacological activities and clinical applications of OA has made significant progress in the past decade, particularly in the areas such as isolation and purification, chemical modifications, pharmacological research, toxicity studies and clinical use of OA. However, due to its poor aqueous solubility, instability and low bioavailability, OA's clinical applications are still rather limited. Recently, nanoparticulate drug delivery as the biological dimension of nanotechnology has been developed, which may help generate useful formulations of OA for clinical applications. Nanoparticulate drug delivery system enhances the dissolution rate and bioavailability of OA, providing a feasible formulation method for clinical applications.
Path finding methods accounting for stoichiometry in metabolic networks
Authors: Pey Jon , Prada Joaquín , Beasley John E , Planes Francisco J
Published: May 2011

Graph-based methods have been widely used for the analysis of biological networks. Their application to metabolic networks has been much discussed, in particular noting that an important weakness in such methods is that reaction stoichiometry is neglected. In this study, we show that reaction stoichiometry can be incorporated into path-finding approaches via mixed-integer linear programming. This major advance at the modeling level results in improved prediction of topological and functional properties in metabolic networks.
Hope for the Best, Prepare for the Worst: Response of Tall Steel Buildings to the ShakeOut Scenario Earthquake
Authors: Muto Matthew , Krishnan Swaminathan
Published: May 2011

This work represents an effort to develop one plausible realization of the effects of the scenario event on tall steel moment-frame buildings. We have used the simulated ground motions with three-dimensional nonlinear finite element models of three buildings in the 20-story class to simulate structural responses at 784 analysis sites spaced at approximately 4 km throughout the San Fernando Valley, the San Gabriel Valley, and the Los Angeles Basin. Based on the simulation results and available information on the number and distribution of steel buildings, the recommended damage scenario for the ShakeOut drill was 5% of the estimated 150 steel moment-frame structures in the 10–30 story range collapsing, 10% red-tagged, 15% with damage serious enough to cause loss of life, and 20% with visible damage requiring building closure.
The ShakeOut Scenario: A Hypothetical Mw7.8 Earthquake on the Southern San Andreas Fault
Authors: Porter Keith , Jones Lucile , Cox Dale , Goltz James , Hudnut Ken , Mileti Dennis , Perry Sue , Ponti Daniel , Reichle Michael , Rose Adam Z. , Scawthorn Charles R. , Seligson Hope A. , Shoaf Kimberley I. , Treiman Jerry , Wein Anne
Published: May 2011

In 2008, an earthquake-planning scenario document was released by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and California Geological Survey that hypothesizes the occurrence and effects of a Mw7.8 earthquake on the southern San Andreas Fault. It was created by more than 300 scientists and engineers. Fault offsets reach 13 m and up to 8 m at lifeline crossings. Physics-based modeling was used to generate maps of shaking intensity, with peak ground velocities of 3 m/sec near the fault and exceeding 0.5 m/sec over 10,000 km2. A custom HAZUS®MH analysis and 18 special studies were performed to characterize the effects of the earthquake on the built environment. The scenario posits 1,800 deaths and 53,000 injuries requiring emergency room care. Approximately 1,600 fires are ignited, resulting in the destruction of 200 million square feet of the building stock, the equivalent of 133,000 single-family homes. Fire contributes $87 billion in property and business interruption loss, out of the total $191 billion in economic loss, with most of the rest coming from shake-related building and content damage ($46 billion) and business interruption loss from water outages ($24 billion). Emergency response activities are depicted in detail, in an innovative grid showing activities versus time, a new format introduced in this study.
ShakeOut Scenario: Water System Impacts from a Mw 7.8 San Andreas Earthquake
Authors: Davis Craig , O'Rourke Thomas
Published: May 2011

Seismic response simulations of the Los Angeles water supply to a Mw 7.8 San Andreas Fault earthquake scenario are used to assess the regional aqueduct and water distribution system performance in Southern California. Aqueducts sustain significant damage, and restoration of water flow is estimated to take between 4 and 18 months. Local emergency water supplies are insufficient to match the duration of aqueduct repairs, requiring severe water rationing. System serviceability declines rapidly due to numerous pipe leaks, causing serious difficulties for firefighting. Water service restoration to all customers is projected to take several months, with restoration of pre-earthquake water demand requiring more than a year. Business interruptions from long-term water rationing affect the regional economy greater than previously anticipated. Results from this scenario show how critical it is for all water agencies to prepare for a large-magnitude San Andreas earthquake.
Fire following Earthquake Aspects of the Southern San Andreas Fault Mw 7.8 Earthquake Scenario
Authors: Scawthorn Charles R.
Published: May 2011

Fire following earthquake (FFE) is a significant problem in California. Potential FFE were examined for the ShakeOut Scenario assuming a Mw 7.8 event on a morning in mid-November, with breezy (10 mph) low humidity conditions. FFE is a nonlinear process whose modeling does not have great precision – in many cases the only clear result is differentiation between a few small fires versus major conflagration. For the scenario, analysis indicates approximately 1,600 ignitions, with the central Los Angeles basin experiencing hundreds of large fires. Estimated loss is hundreds to perhaps a thousand lives, and approximately 200 million sq. ft. of residential and commercial building floor area, corresponding to a loss of perhaps as much as one hundred billion dollars virtually fully insured. Mitigation opportunities include construction of a seismically reliable regional saltwater pumping system to protect central Los Angeles, and automated gas shut-off devices in densely built areas.
Probabilistic Fault Displacement Hazards for the Southern San Andreas Fault Using Scenarios and Empirical Slips
Authors: Chen Rui , Petersen Mark D.
Published: May 2011

We apply a probabilistic method to develop fault displacement hazard maps and profiles for the southern San Andreas Fault. Two slip models are applied: (1) scenario slip, defined by the ShakeOut rupture model, and (2) empirical slip, calculated using regression equations relating global slip to earthquake magnitude and distance along the fault. The hazard is assessed using a range of magnitudes defined by the Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast and the ShakeOut. For hazard mapping we develop a methodology to partition displacement among multiple fault branches based on geological observations. Estimated displacement hazard extends a few kilometers wide in areas of multiple mapped fault branches and poor mapping accuracy. Scenario and empirical displacement hazard differs by a factor of two or three, particularly along the southernmost section of the San Andreas Fault. We recommend the empirical slip model with site-specific geological data to constrain uncertainties for engineering applications.
Scenario Simulation Group Reactions to the Aftermath of the Great ShakeOut Magnitude 7.8 Earthquake
Authors: Rosoff Heather , John Richard , Burns William J. , Maya Isaac
Published: May 2011

This paper demonstrates an innovative approach for learning about earthquake victims’ behavioral responses to an emergency situation in the immediate aftermath of an earthquake. Researchers developed a scenario following a magnitude 7.8 earthquake that leads to escalating complications described over eight episodes. Subjects were assigned to scenario simulation groups (SSG) and instructed to discuss how they would cope with problems as if they were experiencing the scenario. Subjects first discussed their reactions and potential decisions they might have to make as a group. They were then asked to individually record their behavioral intentions, cognitive reactions (concern) and emotional state (fear) in a survey instrument. Subjects’ responses were tracked over the eight episodes of the scenario. The SSG methodology yielded a more realistic understanding of how a respondent's reactions and behavior change in the immediate aftermath of an earthquake. The implications of the SSG approach on disaster preparedness and response are discussed.
Earthquake Damage to Wood-Framed Buildings in the ShakeOut Scenario
Authors: Graf William P. , Seligson Hope A.
Published: May 2011

The M7.8 San Andreas earthquake scenario for the ShakeOut exercise subjects more than a million wood-framed buildings to loads beyond their elastic capacity. Residential construction from the boom from the 1960's to 1980's relied heavily upon drywall sheathing and stucco for shear walls – more vulnerable than plywood or the gypsum lath and plaster of older buildings. During this same construction boom, many apartment buildings were built with tuck-under parking, and heavy masonry chimneys were prevalent. Based on HAZUS®MH modeling we describe, more than 30,000 (mostly older) wood buildings could be red-tagged or yellow-tagged in the scenario event. More recent wood-frames, engineered using plywood shear walls, should perform well, even under the conditions produced by the San Andreas event considered. Cost-effective retrofit measures exist for some of the weaknesses found in older wood construction, but seismic upgrade of wood-framed buildings with structural wood panels remains expensive and intrusive.
Economic Resilience Lessons from the ShakeOut Earthquake Scenario
Authors: Wein Anne , Rose Adam
Published: May 2011

Following a damaging earthquake, “business interruption” (BI)—reduced production of goods and services—begins and continues long after the ground shaking stops. Economic resilience reduces BI losses by making the best use of the resources available at a given point in time (static resilience) or by speeding recovery through repair and reconstruction (dynamic resilience), in contrast to mitigation that prevents damage in the first place. Economic resilience is an important concept to incorporate into economic loss modeling and in recovery and contingency planning. Economic resilience framework includes the applicability of resilience strategies to production inputs and output, demand- and supply-side effects, inherent and adaptive abilities, and levels of the economy. We use our resilience framework to organize and share strategies that enhance economic resilience, identify overlooked resilience strategies, and present evidence and structure of resilience strategies for economic loss modelers. Numerous resilience strategies are compiled from stakeholder discussions about the ShakeOut Scenario (Jones et. al. 2008). Modeled results of ShakeOut BI sector losses reveal variable effectiveness of resilience strategies for lengthy disruptions caused by fire-damaged buildings and water service outages. Resilience is a complement to mitigation and may, in fact, have cost and all-hazards advantages.
Comparison of Ground Motions from Hybrid Simulations to NGA Prediction Equations
Authors: Star Lisa M. , Stewart Jonathan P. , Graves Robert W.
Published: May 2011

We compare simulated motions for a Mw 7.8 rupture scenario on the San Andreas Fault known as the ShakeOut event, two permutations with different hypocenter locations, and a Mw 7.15 Puente Hills blind thrust scenario, to median and dispersion predictions from empirical NGA ground motion prediction equations. We find the simulated motions attenuate faster with distance than is predicted by the NGA models for periods less than about 5.0 s After removing this distance attenuation bias, the average residuals of the simulated events (i.e., event terms) are generally within the scatter of empirical event terms, although the ShakeOut simulation appears to be a high static stress drop event. The intra-event dispersion in the simulations is lower than NGA values at short periods and abruptly increases at 1.0 s due to different simulation procedures at short and long periods. The simulated motions have a depth-dependent basin response similar to the NGA models, and also show complex effects in which stronger basin response occurs when the fault rupture transmits energy into a basin at low angle, which is not predicted by the NGA models. Rupture directivity effects are found to scale with the isochrone parameter.
Preparing for a “Big One”: The Great Southern California ShakeOut
Authors: Jones Lucile M. , Benthien Mark
Published: May 2011

The Great Southern California ShakeOut was a week of special events featuring the largest earthquake drill in United States history. On November 13, 2008, over 5 million Southern Californians pretended that the magnitude-7.8 ShakeOut scenario earthquake was occurring and practiced actions derived from results of the ShakeOut Scenario, to reduce the impact of a real, San Andreas Fault event. The communications campaign was based on four principles: 1) consistent messaging from multiple sources; 2) visual reinforcement: 3) encouragement of “milling”; and 4) focus on concrete actions. The goals of the ShakeOut established in Spring 2008 were: 1) to register 5 million people to participate in the drill; 2) to change the culture of earthquake preparedness in Southern California; and 3) to reduce earthquake losses in Southern California. Over 90% of the registrants surveyed the next year reported improvement in earthquake preparedness at their organization as a result of the ShakeOut.