bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of the RNA-binding protein RBM3 is associated with a favourable prognosis and cisplatin sensitivity in epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Ehlén Åsa , Brennan Donal J , Nodin Björn , O'Connor Darran P , Eberhard Jakob , Alvarado-Kristensson Maria , Jeffrey Ian B , Manjer Jonas , Brändstedt Jenny , Uhlén Mathias , Pontén Fredrik , Jirström Karin
Published: August 2010

Background

We recently demonstrated that increased expression of the RNA-binding protein RBM3 is associated with a favourable prognosis in breast cancer. The aim of this study was to examine the prognostic value of RBM3 mRNA and protein expression in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) and the cisplatin response upon RBM3 depletion in a cisplatin-sensitive ovarian cancer cell line.

Methods

RBM3 mRNA expression was analysed in tumors from a cohort of 267 EOC cases (Cohort I) and RBM3 protein expression was analysed using immunohistochemistry (IHC) in an independent cohort of 154 prospectively collected EOC cases (Cohort II). Kaplan Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards modelling were applied to assess the relationship between RBM3 and recurrence free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS). Immunoblotting and IHC were used to examine the expression of RBM3 in a cisplatin-resistant ovarian cancer cell line A2780-Cp70 and its cisplatin-responsive parental cell line A2780. The impact of RBM3 on cisplatin response in EOC was assessed using siRNA-mediated silencing of RBM3 in A2780 cells followed by cell viability assay and cell cycle analysis.

Results

Increased RBM3 mRNA expression was associated with a prolonged RFS (HR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.47-0.86,p = 0.003) and OS (HR = 0.64, 95% CI = 0.44-0.95,p = 0.024) in Cohort I. Multivariate analysis confirmed that RBM3 mRNA expression was an independent predictor of a prolonged RFS, (HR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.44-0.84,p = 0.003) and OS (HR = 0.62, 95% CI = 0.41-0.95;p = 0.028) in Cohort I. In Cohort II, RBM3 protein expression was associated with a prolonged OS (HR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.35-0.79,p = 0.002) confirmed by multivariate analysis (HR = 0.61, 95% CI = 0.40-0.92,p = 0.017). RBM3 mRNA and protein expression levels were significantly higher in the cisplatin sensitive A2780 cell line compared to the cisplatin resistant A2780-Cp70 derivative. siRNA-mediated silencing of RBM3 expression in the A2780 cells resulted in a decreased sensitivity to cisplatin as demonstrated by increased cell viability and reduced proportion of cells arrested in the G2/M-phase.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that RBM3 expression is associated with cisplatin sensitivityin vitroand with a good prognosis in EOC. Taken together these findings suggest that RBM3 may be a useful prognostic and treatment predictive marker in EOC.
Characterization of vascular strain during in-vitro angioplasty with high-resolution ultrasound speckle tracking
Authors: Patel Prashant , Biswas Rohan , Park Daewoo , Cichonski Thomas J , Richards Michael S , Rubin Jonathan M , Phan Sem , Hamilton James , Weitzel William F
Published: August 2010

Background

Ultrasound elasticity imaging provides biomechanical and elastic properties of vascular tissue, with the potential to distinguish between tissue motion and tissue strain. To validate the ability of ultrasound elasticity imaging to predict structurally defined physical changes in tissue, strain measurement patterns during angioplasty in four bovine carotid artery pathology samples were compared to the measured physical characteristics of the tissue specimens.

Methods

Using computational image-processing techniques, the circumferences of each bovine artery specimen were obtained from ultrasound and pathologic data.

Results

Ultrasound-strain-based and pathology-based arterial circumference measurements were correlated with an R2 value of 0.94 (p = 0.03). The experimental elasticity imaging results confirmed the onset of deformation of an angioplasty procedure by indicating a consistent inflection point where vessel fibers were fully unfolded and vessel wall strain initiated.

Conclusion

These results validate the ability of ultrasound elasticity imaging to measure localized mechanical changes in vascular tissue.
Identification of host proteins associated with HIV-1 preintegration complexes isolated from infected CD4+ cells
Authors: Raghavendra Nidhanapati K , Shkriabai Nikolozi , Graham Robert LJ , Hess Sonja , Kvaratskhelia Mamuka , Wu Li
Published: August 2010

An integrated HIV-1 genomic DNA leads to an infected cell becoming either an active or a latent virus-producing cell. Upon appropriate activation, a latently infected cell can result in production of progeny viruses that spread the infection to uninfected cells. The host proteins influence several steps of HIV-1 infection including formation of the preintegration complex (PIC), a key nucleoprotein intermediate essential for integration of reverse transcribed viral DNA into the chromosome. Much effort has gone into the identification of host proteins contributing to the assembly of functional PICs. Experimental approaches included the use of yeast two-hybrid system, co-immunoprecipitation, affinity tagged HIV-1 viral proteins and in vitro reconstitution of salt-stripped PIC activity. Several host proteins identified using these approaches have been shown to affect HIV-1 replication in cells and influence catalytic activities of recombinant IN in vitro. However, the comprehensive identification and characterization of host proteins associated with HIV-1 PICs of infected cells have been hindered in part by the technical limitation in acquiring sufficient amount of catalytically active PICs. To efficiently identify additional host factors associated with PICs in infected cells, we have developed the following novel approach. The catalytically active PICs from HIV-1-infected CD4+ cells were isolated using biotinylated target DNA, and the proteins selectively co-purifying with PICs have been analyzed by mass spectrometry. This technology enabled us to reveal at least 19 host proteins that are associated with HIV-1 PICs, of which 18 proteins have not been described previously with respect to HIV-1 integration. Physiological functions of the identified proteins range from chromatin organization to protein transport. A detailed characterization of these host proteins could provide new insights into the mechanism of HIV-1 integration and uncover new antiviral targets to block HIV-1 integration.
Expression of C-type lectin, SIGNR3, on subsets of dendritic cells, macrophages, and monocytes
Authors: Nagaoka Koji , Takahara Kazuhiko , Minamino Kento , Takeda Tatsuki , Yoshida Yoko , Inaba Kayo
Published: August 2010

SIGNR3 is expressed in various tissues and defined as a new differentiation marker of monocytic cells from Ly6Chigh monocytes into dendritic cells and macrophages.

The C-type lectin SIGNR3 is a mouse homologue of human DC-SIGN, which shares carbohydrate-binding specificity with human DC-SIGN. However, the expression profile of SIGNR3 is largely unknown. To examine the expression of SIGNR3 in immune cells, we generated SIGNR3-specific mAb and investigated SIGNR3 expression in vivo. SIGNR3 was expressed on a fraction of MHC II+ DCs and Mφs in the dermis and CD115+Ly6Cint-low monocytes in the blood and BM. In the LNs, SIGNR3+ cells localized adjacent to PNAd+ HEV-like vessels. They were also found in interfollicular regions in sLNs but not mLNs. Those SIGNR3+ cells expressed CD11b and variable levels of CD11c and MHC II. As in LNs, SIGNR3 was expressed on a large proportion of the CD11b+CD11cint-high cells in the spleen. In the lung, SIGNR3+ cells belonged to the CD11b+CD11cint population, and Mφs in the airway and lung faintly expressed SIGNR3. When PKH67-labeled CD115+Ly6Chigh BM monocytes were transferred into normal recipients, they up-regulated SIGNR3 expression along with the decrease in Ly6C expression during the circulation and upon arrival at the peripheral LNs through HEV. In addition, CD11bhighLy6Chigh monocytes that entered sLNs differentiated into CD11b+ DCs in a couple of days, whereas those in the spleen, mLNs, and lung differentiated into CD11cint monocytic cells. These results suggest that SIGNR3 is a new differentiation marker for myeloid mononuclear cells and indicate that some DCs, especially in the sLNs, are possibly replenished by Ly6Chigh monocytes.
Recognition of pre- and postsynaptic neurons via nephrin/NEPH1 homologs is a basis for the formation of theDrosophilaretinotopic map
Authors: Sugie Atsushi , Umetsu Daiki , Yasugi Tetsuo , Fischbach Karl-Friedrich , Tabata Tetsuya
Published: August 2010

Topographic maps, which maintain the spatial order of neurons in the order of their axonal connections, are found in many parts of the nervous system. Here, we focus on the communication between retinal axons and their postsynaptic partners, lamina neurons, in the first ganglion of the Drosophila visual system, as a model for the formation of topographic maps. Post-mitotic lamina precursor cells differentiate upon receiving Hedgehog signals delivered through newly arriving retinal axons and, before maturing to extend neurites, extend short processes toward retinal axons to create the lamina column. The lamina column provides the cellular basis for establishing stereotypic synapses between retinal axons and lamina neurons. In this study, we identified two cell-adhesion molecules: Hibris, which is expressed in post-mitotic lamina precursor cells; and Roughest, which is expressed on retinal axons. Both proteins belong to the nephrin/NEPH1 family. We provide evidence that recognition between post-mitotic lamina precursor cells and retinal axons is mediated by interactions between Hibris and Roughest. These findings revealed mechanisms by which axons of presynaptic neurons deliver signals to induce the development of postsynaptic partners at the target area. Postsynaptic partners then recognize the presynaptic axons to make ensembles, thus establishing a topographic map along the anterior/posterior axis.
miR-18, a member of Oncomir-1, targets heat shock transcription factor 2 in spermatogenesis
Authors: Björk Johanna K. , Sandqvist Anton , Elsing Alexandra N. , Kotaja Noora , Sistonen Lea
Published: August 2010

miR-18 belongs to the Oncomir-1 or miR-17~92 cluster that is intimately associated with the occurrence and progression of different types of cancer. However, the physiological roles of the Oncomir-1 cluster and its individual miRNAs are largely unknown. Here, we describe a novel function for miR-18 in mouse. We show that miR-18 directly targets heat shock factor 2 (HSF2), a transcription factor that influences a wide range of developmental processes including embryogenesis and gametogenesis. Furthermore, we show that miR-18 is highly abundant in testis, displaying distinct cell-type-specific expression during the epithelial cycle that constitutes spermatogenesis. Expression of HSF2 and of miR-18 exhibit an inverse correlation during spermatogenesis, indicating that, in germ cells, HSF2 is downregulated by miR-18. To investigate the in vivo function of miR-18 we developed a novel method, T-GIST, and demonstrate that inhibition of miR-18 in intact seminiferous tubules leads to increased HSF2 protein levels and altered expression of HSF2 target genes. Our results reveal that miR-18 regulates HSF2 activity in spermatogenesis and link miR-18 to HSF2-mediated physiological processes such as male germ cell maturation.
Mouse Emi2 as a distinctive regulatory hub in second meiotic metaphase
Authors: Suzuki Toru , Suzuki Emi , Yoshida Naoko , Kubo Atsuko , Li Hongmei , Okuda Erina , Amanai Manami , Perry Anthony C. F.
Published: August 2010

The oocytes of vertebrates are typically arrested at metaphase II (mII) by the cytostatic factor Emi2 until fertilization. Regulatory mechanisms in Xenopus Emi2 (xEmi2) are understood in detail but contrastingly little is known about the corresponding mechanisms in mammals. Here, we analyze Emi2 and its regulatory neighbours at the molecular level in intact mouse oocytes. Emi2, but not xEmi2, exhibited nuclear targeting. Unlike xEmi2, separable N- and C-terminal domains of mouse Emi2 modulated metaphase establishment and maintenance, respectively, through indirect and direct mechanisms. The C-terminal activity was mapped to the potential phosphorylation target Tx5SxS, a destruction box (D-box), a lattice of Zn2+-coordinating residues and an RL domain. The minimal region of Emi2 required for its cytostatic activity was mapped to a region containing these motifs, from residue 491 to the C terminus. The cytostatic factor Mos-MAPK promoted Emi2-dependent metaphase establishment, but Mos autonomously disappeared from meiotically competent mII oocytes. The N-terminal Plx1-interacting phosphodegron of xEmi2 was apparently shifted to within a minimal fragment (residues 51-300) of mouse Emi2 that also contained a calmodulin kinase II (CaMKII) phosphorylation motif and which was efficiently degraded during mII exit. Two equimolar CaMKII γ isoform variants were present in mII oocytes, neither of which phosphorylated Emi2 in vitro, consistent with the involvement of additional factors. No evidence was found that calcineurin is required for mouse mII exit. These data support a model in which mammalian meiotic establishment, maintenance and exit converge upon a modular Emi2 hub via evolutionarily conserved and divergent mechanisms.
The ubiquitin proteasome system is required for cell proliferation of the lens epithelium and for differentiation of lens fiber cells in zebrafish
Authors: Imai Fumiyasu , Yoshizawa Asuka , Fujimori-Tonou Noriko , Kawakami Koichi , Masai Ichiro
Published: August 2010

In the developing vertebrate lens, epithelial cells differentiate into fiber cells, which are elongated and flat in shape and form a multilayered lens fiber core. In this study, we identified the zebrafish volvox (vov) mutant, which shows defects in lens fiber differentiation. In the vov mutant, lens epithelial cells fail to proliferate properly. Furthermore, differentiating lens fiber cells do not fully elongate, and the shape and position of lens fiber nuclei are affected. We found that the vov mutant gene encodes Psmd6, the subunit of the 26S proteasome. The proteasome regulates diverse cellular functions by degrading polyubiquitylated proteins. Polyubiquitylated proteins accumulate in the vov mutant. Furthermore, polyubiquitylation is active in nuclei of differentiating lens fiber cells, suggesting roles of the proteasome in lens fiber differentiation. We found that an E3 ubiquitin ligase anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C) is involved in lens defects in the vov mutant. These data suggest that the ubiquitin proteasome system is required for cell proliferation of lens epithelium and for the differentiation of lens fiber cells in zebrafish.
Inhibition of Wnt signaling by Wise (Sostdc1) and negative feedback from Shh controls tooth number and patterning
Authors: Ahn Youngwook , Sanderson Brian W. , Klein Ophir D. , Krumlauf Robb
Published: August 2010

Mice carrying mutations in Wise (Sostdc1) display defects in many aspects of tooth development, including tooth number, size and cusp pattern. To understand the basis of these defects, we have investigated the pathways modulated by Wise in tooth development. We present evidence that, in tooth development, Wise suppresses survival of the diastema or incisor vestigial buds by serving as an inhibitor of Lrp5- and Lrp6-dependent Wnt signaling. Reducing the dosage of the Wnt co-receptor genes Lrp5 and Lrp6 rescues the Wise-null tooth phenotypes. Inactivation of Wise leads to elevated Wnt signaling and, as a consequence, vestigial tooth buds in the normally toothless diastema region display increased proliferation and continuous development to form supernumerary teeth. Conversely, gain-of-function studies show that ectopic Wise reduces Wnt signaling and tooth number. Our analyses demonstrate that the Fgf and Shh pathways are major downstream targets of Wise-regulated Wnt signaling. Furthermore, our experiments revealed that Shh acts as a negative-feedback regulator of Wnt signaling and thus determines the fate of the vestigial buds and later tooth patterning. These data provide insight into the mechanisms that control Wnt signaling in tooth development and into how crosstalk among signaling pathways controls tooth number and morphogenesis.
Acoustic-Based Techniques for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Localization
Authors: Petillot Y , Maurelli F , Valeyrie N , Mallios A , Ridao P , Aulinas J , Salvi J
Published: August 2010

This paper presents two acoustic-based techniques to solve the localization problem for an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV). After a brief description of the Bayesian filtering framework, the paper analyses two of the most common underwater scenarios. Each scenario corresponds to one of the two localization techniques. The scenarios are as follows: map-based localization, when the environment is sufficiently distinctive; transponder-based localization for navigation in large and not distinctive environments. An environment is said to be distinctive when there are possible reference points. For example, a completely flat featureless sea floor is not considered as distinctive. The proposed techniques were validated in simulation. The map-based localization technique was also validated in trials with the autonomous underwater vehicles Ictineu and Nessie IV. The trials with Ictineu took place in an abandoned marina with Ictineu travelling along a trajectory that was more than 600 m long. The trials with Nessie IV took place in a rectangular pool and during an AUV competition.
Development of an Auxiliary Propulsion Module for an Autonomous Underwater Glider
Authors: Claus B , Bachmayer R , Williams C D
Published: August 2010

A low-power propeller-based propulsion module has been developed to augment the buoyancy engine of a 200 m Slocum electric glider. This device is introduced to allow new behaviours such as horizontal flight and faster overall speeds to expand the existing operational envelope of underwater gliders. The design of the system is optimized for use at the typical horizontal glider speed of 0.3 m/s. Before integration into the glider the stand-alone propulsion module has been tested in a small flume tank to verify the systems performance. The validity of a previously published hydrodynamic model of the glider at zero angle of attack was verified by conducting drag measurements at various flow velocities at full scale in a larger flume tank. Self-propulsion tests were also performed to establish the performance of the glider with the new propulsion module in the larger flume tank and in the university tow tank. The results from these tests show that the new propulsion module is able to match the performance of the conventional glider for full depth profiles and to exceed it for limited depth profiles.
Hot flushes: are there effective alternatives to estrogen?
Authors: Sassarini Jenifer , Lumsden Mary Ann
Published: August 2010

Hot flushes are the most common indication for the prescription of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) since it is effective in over 80% of cases. In 1995, 37% of American women took HRT, principally for this purpose. However, over the last five years, publications such as those from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) have caused concern among women since they perceive that the risks outweigh the benefits. Following this publication, half of the women taking HRT in the UK, USA and New Zealand discontinued HRT. With the discontinuation of estrogen many women re-developed hot flushes; however only a small number (18%) of women report restarting hormone therapy. The majority of these (76%) for the recurrence of severe hot flushes or night sweats. Alternatives are available, but limited knowledge on aetiology and mechanisms of hot flushing represents a major obstacle for the development of new, targeted, non-hormonal treatments, and no current alternatives are as effective as estrogen.
A clinical dilemma: the potential use of egg freezing to preserve fertility in a young patient at risk of developing premature ovarian failure
Authors: Cartwright Beth , Grace Jan , Rymer Janice
Published: August 2010

Following diagnosis of premature ovarian failure (POF), few women become pregnant spontaneously and the only fertility treatment that can be offered is oocyte donation. With advances in fertility technology, timely preservation of female fertility in the form of egg freezing is a topical area, and one of which patients are increasingly aware. Women with a family history of POF may be especially concerned about future fertility. We describe a case where a consultation was sought in the POF clinic for this issue.
Menopause, hormone replacement and gynaecological cancers
Authors: Hinds Lynsey , Price John
Published: August 2010

Approximately 18,000 women are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer in the UK each year. Predisposing risk factors for some of these gynaecological cancers include an early menarche/late menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Furthermore, treatment of gynaecological malignancies often induces an iatrogenic menopause, which may be more severe than a natural onset. HRT is an extremely effective treatment that may dramatically improve physical and psychological symptoms and ultimately quality of life in patients with cancer. However, the safety of using HRT in patients with gynaecological cancer is a controversial issue and not entirely clear. The main concern is the theoretical risk of the stimulation of residual cancer cells by estrogen replacement. The review of the evidence in this article found that for most gynaecological cancers this hypothesis was not proven. No study to date has found HRT to have a detrimental effect on survival in patients with early stage endometrial cancer, epithelial ovarian cancer, cervical cancer and vulval tumours. HRT is only an absolute contraindication in low-grade endometrial stromal sarcomas and is best avoided in granulosa cell ovarian tumours. Therefore, HRT should not be withheld in the majority of patients with gynaecological cancer. If quality of life is being adversely affected by symptoms of the menopause, then patients with cancer should be counselled regarding the known risks and benefits of HRT to enable them to make an informed decision on their treatment.
Development of a Motor-Based Differential Settlement Simulator Setup for a Geotechnical Centrifuge
Authors: Rajesh S. , Viswanadham B. V. S.
Published: August 2010

This paper presents the design details of a motor-based differential settlement simulator (MDSS) setup for inducing differential settlement in a high gravity environment. The MDSS setup comprises of a motor, controller, screw jack, central platform, gear trains, connecting shaft, and bearings. Various features of the MDSS setup along with its design procedure are described. Calibration and performance tests were performed in a large beam geotechnical centrifuge facility available at Indian Institute of Technology Bombay for inducing differential settlement using the MDSS setup. A design chart was developed for obtaining prototype settlement rates from the speed of the motor and gravity level. The usage of this setup in assessing the deformation behavior of the clay barrier of landfill cover system under various settlement rates is briefly illustrated. The versatility of the developed setup for the applications involving ground loss or boundary displacement problems is highlighted.
Cumulus cell gene expression following the LH surge in bovine preovulatory follicles: potential early markers of oocyte competence
Authors: Assidi Mourad , Dieleman Steph J , Sirard Marc-André
Published: August 2010

Cumulus cells (CCs) are essential for oocytes to reach full development competency and become fertilized. Many major functional properties of CCs are triggered by gonadotropins and governed by the oocyte. Consequently, cumulus may reflect oocyte quality and is often used for oocyte selection. The most visible function of CCs is their ability for rapid extracellular matrix expansion after the LH surge. Although unexplained, LH induces the final maturation and improves oocyte quality. To study the LH signaling and gene expression cascade patterns close to the germinal vesicle breakdown, bovine CCs collected at 2 h before and 6 h after the LH surge were hybridized to a custom-made microarray to better understand the LH genomic action and find differentially expressed genes associated with the LH-induced oocyte final maturation. Functional genomic analysis of the 141 overexpressed and 161 underexpressed clones was performed according to their molecular functions, gene networks, and cell compartments. Following real-time PCR validation of our gene lists, some interesting pathways associated with the LH genomic action on CCs and their possible roles in oocyte final maturation, ovulation, and fertilization are discussed. A list of early potential markers of oocyte competencyin vivoandin vitrois thereafter suggested. These early biomarkers are a preamble to understand the LH molecular pathways that trigger the final oocyte competence acquisition process in bovine.
Vertical and combined loading tests for sheet pile foundation
Authors: Nishioka H , Koda M , Hirao J , Higuchi S
Published: August 2010

The authors proposed a new foundation-type, named sheet pile foundation, which combines a footing with sheet piles. Sheet pile foundation can be constructed more economically than pile foundation, and can be applied to wider ground conditions than shallow foundations. To investigate the fundamental characteristics of the sheet pile foundation, a series of static loading tests were conducted on both shallow foundation and sheet pile foundation. Two different loading procedures – vertical loading and combined loading – were implemented. The combined loading tests can simulate earthquake conditions by applying the horizontal force and moment caused by the inertia of a superstructure while maintaining an appropriate vertical dead load. The model tests were conducted in a 1g gravitational field using model ground with the plane strain condition. To satisfy the similitude of the model, the relative ratios of bending rigidity for the sheet piles and the ground rigidity were taken into consideration. It was shown that the sheet pile foundation offers outstanding performance in terms of both bearing capacity and earthquake resistance. In addition, it was clarified that the axial force of the sheet piles provided a strong resistive effect under the combined loading condition during an earthquake.
The response of pile groups under cyclic lateral loads
Authors: LI Z , HAIGH S K , BOLTON M D
Published: August 2010

Numerous pile groups are subjected to significant cyclic lateral loads due to wind, waves or earthquakes, and many have failed catastrophically. In this research, centrifuge modelling of a pile group subjected to cyclic lateral loads has been conducted to investigate the interaction effect in pile groups and the influence of cyclic lateral loads on the performance of pile groups. Different pile installation methods were also applied to capture the full range of construction-induced soil conditions available in the field. Lateral permanent displacements of the pile group were seen to be induced by one-way cyclic lateral loads but not by two-way symmetric cyclic lateral loads. The lateral secant stiffness of the pile group increases slightly with increasing number of cycles, and leading piles attract greater loads than trailing piles. Furthermore, permanent settlements of the pile group accumulate, which can be attributed to the swaying motion of the pile cap induced by cyclic lateral loads.
American Indian/Alaska Native Uninsurance Disparities: A Comparison of 3 Surveys
Authors: Johnson Pamela Jo , Blewett Lynn A. , Call Kathleen Thiede , Davern Michael
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We examined whether 3 nationally representative data sources produce consistent estimates of disparities and rates of uninsurance among the American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN) population and to demonstrate how choice of data source impacts study conclusions.

Methods. We estimated all-year and point-in-time uninsurance rates for AIANs and non-Hispanic Whites younger than 65 years using 3 surveys: Current Population Survey (CPS), National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), and Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS).

Results. Sociodemographic differences across surveys suggest that national samples produce differing estimates of the AIAN population. AIAN all-year uninsurance rates varied across surveys (3%–23% for children and 18%–35% for adults). Measures of disparity also differed by survey. For all-year uninsurance, the unadjusted rate for AIAN children was 2.9 times higher than the rate for White children with the CPS, but there were no significant disparities with the NHIS or MEPS. Compared with White adults, AIAN adults had unadjusted rate ratios of 2.5 with the CPS and 2.2 with the NHIS or MEPS.

Conclusions. Different data sources produce substantially different estimates for the same population. Consequently, conclusions about health care disparities may be influenced by the data source used.
Perceived Discrimination and Its Association With Psychological Distress Among Newly Arrived Immigrants Before and After September 11, 2001
Authors: Rousseau Cécile , Hassan Ghayda , Moreau Nicolas , Thombs Brett D.
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We compared the evolution of perception of discrimination from 1998 to 2007 among recent Arab (Muslim and non-Muslim) and Haitian immigrants to Montreal; we also studied the association between perception of discrimination and psychological distress in 1998 and 2007.

Methods. We conducted this cross-sectional comparative research with 2 samples: one recruited in 1998 (n = 784) and the other in 2007 (n = 432). The samples were randomly extracted from the registry of the Ministry of Immigration and Cultural Communities of Quebec. Psychological distress was measured with the Hopkins Symptom Checklist-25.

Results. The perception of discrimination increased from 1998 to 2007 among the Arab Muslim, Arab non-Muslim, and Haitian groups. Muslim Arabs experienced a significant increase in psychological distress associated with discrimination from 1998 to 2007.

Conclusions. These results confirm an increase in perception of discrimination and psychological distress among Arab Muslim recent immigrant communities after September 11, 2001, and highlight the importance this context may have for other immigrant groups.
Relationship Between Past Food Deprivation and Current Dietary Practices and Weight Status Among Cambodian Refugee Women in Lowell, MA
Authors: Peterman Jerusha Nelson , Wilde Parke E. , Liang Sidney , Bermudez Odilia I. , Silka Linda , Rogers Beatrice Lorge
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We investigated Cambodian refugee women's past food experiences and the relationship between those experiences and current food beliefs, dietary practices, and weight status.

Methods. Focus group participants (n = 11) described past food experiences and current health-related food beliefs and behaviors. We randomly selected survey participants (n = 133) from a comprehensive list of Cambodian households in Lowell, Massachusetts. We collected height, weight, 24-hour dietary recall, food beliefs, past food experience, and demographic information. We constructed a measure of past food deprivation from focus group and survey responses. We analyzed data with multivariate logistic and linear regression models.

Results. Participants experienced severe past food deprivation and insecurity. Those with higher past food-deprivation scores were more likely to currently report eating meat with fat (odds ratio [OR] = 1.14 for every point increase on the 9-to-27–point food-deprivation measure), and to be overweight or obese by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (OR = 1.28) and World Health Organization (OR = 1.18) standards.

Conclusions. Refugees who experienced extensive food deprivation or insecurity may be more likely to engage in unhealthful eating practices and to be overweight or obese than are those who experienced less-extreme food deprivation or insecurity.
Innovative Approaches to Reducing Financial Barriers to Obstetric Care in Low-Income Countries
Authors: Richard Fabienne , Witter Sophie , de Brouwere Vincent
Published: August 2010

Lack of access to quality care is the main obstacle to reducing maternal mortality in low-income countries. In many settings, women must pay out-of-pocket fees, resulting in delays, some of them fatal, and catastrophic expenditure that push households into poverty.

Various innovative approaches have targeted the poor or exempted specific services, such as cesarean deliveries. We analyzed 8 case studies to better understand current experiments in reducing financial barriers to maternal care.

Although service utilization increased in most of the settings, concerns remain about quality of care, equity between rich and poor patients and between urban and rural residents, and financial sustainability to support these new strategies.
Urban Sprawl, Smart Growth, and Deliberative Democracy
Authors: Resnik David B.
Published: August 2010

Urban sprawl is an increasingly common feature of the built environment in the United States and other industrialized nations. Although there is considerable evidence that urban sprawl has adverse affects on public health and the environment, policy frameworks designed to combat sprawl—such as smart growth—have proven to be controversial, making implementation difficult.

Smart growth has generated considerable controversy because stakeholders affected by urban planning policies have conflicting interests and divergent moral and political viewpoints. In some of these situations, deliberative democracy—an approach to resolving controversial public-policy questions that emphasizes open, deliberative debate among the affected parties as an alternative to voting—would be a fair and effective way to resolve urban-planning issues.
Racial Disparities in Stage-Specific Colorectal Cancer Mortality: 1960–2005
Authors: Soneji Samir , Iyer Shally Shalini , Armstrong Katrina , Asch David A.
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We examined whether racial disparities in stage-specific colorectal cancer survival changed between 1960 and 2005.

Methods. We used US Mortality Multiple-Cause-of-Death Data Files and intercensal estimates to calculate standardized mortality rates by gender and race from 1960 to 2005. We used Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) data to estimate stage-specific colorectal cancer survival. To account for SEER sampling uncertainty, we used a bootstrap resampling procedure and fit a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results. Between 1960–2005, patterns of decline in mortality rate as a result of colorectal cancer differed greatly by gender and race: 54% reduction for White women, 14% reduction for Black women, 39% reduction for White men, and 28% increase for Black men. Blacks consistently experienced worse rates of stage-specific survival and life expectancy than did Whites for both genders, across all age groups, and for localized, regional, and distant stages of the disease.

Conclusions. The rates of stage-specific colorectal cancer survival differed among Blacks when compared with Whites during the 4-decade study period. Differences in stage-specific life expectancy were the result of differences in access to care or quality of care. More attention should be given to racial disparities in colorectal cancer management.
The Utilization of Home Care by the Elderly in Brazil's Primary Health Care System
Authors: Thumé Elaine , Facchini Luiz Augusto , Wyshak Grace , Campbell Paul
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We assessed the utilization of home care by the elderly in Brazil after implementation of the Family Health Strategy (FHS).

Methods. Data were derived from a cross-sectional study in a southern city in Brazil. Using the χ2 test and a logistic regression with different levels of determination, we tested the hypothesis that the FHS increased the utilization of home care compared with utilization under the Traditional Primary Health Care (TPHC) system.

Results. We interviewed 1593 residents aged 60 years and older. Home care utilization under the FHS was 2.7 times the rate of utilization under the TPHC (95% confidence interval = 1.5, 4.7; P = .001), and utilization increased among the older group, the less educated, those with history of hospitalization, and those with functional limitations.

Conclusions. Improvement in access to care resulted in greater utilization of home care. Our findings have policy implications that include expanding the coverage of the FHS throughout big cities where coverage is limited. These findings are important because the population is aging and the family strategy operates in poorer areas; thus, it can promote equity in access to home health care among the elderly.
Antiretroviral Therapy as HIV Prevention: Status and Prospects
Authors: Mayer Kenneth H. , Venkatesh Kartik K.
Published: August 2010

As antiretroviral treatment of HIV infection has become increasingly accessible, attention has focused on whether these drugs can used for prevention because of increased tolerability of newer medications, decreased cost, and the limitations of other approaches. We review the status of antiretroviral HIV prevention, including chemoprophylaxis, as well as the effects of treatment of infected individuals on prevention. It is possible that the life-saving agents that have transformed the natural history of AIDS can be a critical component of HIV prevention efforts, but their ultimate role in affecting HIV transmission dynamics remains to be defined.
Walking and Cycling to Health: A Comparative Analysis of City, State, and International Data
Authors: Pucher John , Buehler Ralph , Bassett David R. , Dannenberg Andrew L.
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We sought to determine the magnitude, direction, and statistical significance of the relationship between active travel and rates of physical activity, obesity, and diabetes.

Methods. We examined aggregate cross-sectional health and travel data for 14 countries, all 50 US states, and 47 of the 50 largest US cities through graphical, correlation, and bivariate regression analysis on the country, state, and city levels.

Results. At all 3 geographic levels, we found statistically significant negative relationships between active travel and self-reported obesity. At the state and city levels, we found statistically significant positive relationships between active travel and physical activity and statistically significant negative relationships between active travel and diabetes.

Conclusions. Together with many other studies, our analysis provides evidence of the population-level health benefits of active travel. Policies on transport, land-use, and urban development should be designed to encourage walking and cycling for daily travel.
The Association Between Community Water Fluoridation and Adult Tooth Loss
Authors: Neidell Matthew , Herzog Karin , Glied Sherry
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We sought to estimate the association between community water fluoridation (CWF) exposure at various stages of life and adult tooth loss.

Methods. We used data from the 1995 through 1999 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, merged with data from the 1992 Water Fluoridation Census, to estimate interval regression models that relate CWF exposure with tooth loss.

Results. Our results indicate that CWF levels in the county of residence at the time of the respondent's birth are significantly related to tooth loss but current CWF levels are not. In addition, the impact of CWF exposure is larger for individuals of lower socioeconomic status.

Conclusions. This study suggests that the benefits of CWF may be larger than previously believed and that CWF has a lasting improvement in racial/ethnic and economic disparities in oral health.
Evaluation of a Cervical Cancer Control Intervention Using Lay Health Workers for Vietnamese American Women
Authors: Taylor Victoria M. , Jackson J. Carey , Yasui Yutaka , Nguyen Tung T. , Woodall Erica , Acorda Elizabeth , Li Lin , Ramsey Scott
Published: August 2010

Objectives. We conducted a trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a cervical cancer control intervention for Vietnamese American women that used lay health workers.

Methods. The study group included 234 women who had not received a Papanicolaou (Pap) test in the last 3 years. Experimental group participants received a lay health worker home visit. Our trial endpoint was Pap test receipt within 6 months of randomization. Pap testing completion was ascertained through women's self-reports and medical record reviews. We examined intervention effects among women who had ever received a Pap test (prior to randomization) and women who had never received a Pap test.

Results. Three quarters of the women in the experimental group completed a home visit. Ever-screened experimental group women were significantly more likely to report Pap testing (P < .02) and to have records verifying Pap testing (P < .04) than were ever-screened control group women. There were no significant differences between the trial arms for women who had never been screened.

Conclusions. Our findings indicate that lay health worker–based interventions for Vietnamese American women are feasible to implement and can increase levels of Pap testing use among ever-screened women but not among never-screened women.
HPV Vaccination's Second Act: Promotion, Competition, and Compulsion
Authors: Schwartz Jason L.
Published: August 2010

Developments regarding human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines will transform HPV vaccination in the United States while simultaneously raising several new policy and ethical concerns.

Policymakers, vaccine manufacturers, and the public health community must now respond to the presence of competing vaccines that are similar but distinct, particularly with respect to genital wart prevention and the benefits of vaccinating males. This work arises in the shadow of the contentious introduction of the HPV vaccine Gardasil (Merck & Co, Inc, Whitehouse Station, NJ) in 2006, particularly the opposition to efforts in many states to require the vaccine for school attendance.

I review the current status of HPV vaccine policy in the United States and examine issues of public health ethics and policy central to ongoing and future HPV vaccination programs.
Recent Trends in Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health in Brazil: Progress Toward Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5
Authors: Barros Fernando C. , Matijasevich Alicia , Requejo Jennifer Harris , Giugliani Elsa , Maranhão Ana Goretti , Monteiro Carlos A. , Barros Aluísio J. D. , Bustreo Flavia , Merialdi Mario , Victora Cesar G.
Published: August 2010

We analyzed Brazil's efforts in reducing child mortality, improving maternal and child health, and reducing socioeconomic and regional inequalities from 1990 through 2007. We compiled and reanalyzed data from several sources, including vital statistics and population-based surveys. We also explored the roles of broad socioeconomic and demographic changes and the introduction of health sector and other reform measures in explaining the improvements observed. Our findings provide compelling evidence that proactive measures to reduce health disparities accompanied by socioeconomic progress can result in measurable improvements in the health of children and mothers in a relatively short interval. Our analysis of Brazil's successes and remaining challenges to reach and surpass Millennium Development Goals 4 and 5 can provide important lessons for other low- and middle-income countries.
Germ-line Enhancements, Inequalities and the (In)egalitarian Ethos
Authors: Feeney Oliver
Published: August 2010

In most discussions of the social justice implications of new genetic technologies, enhancements are considered to be highly contentious. This is particularly so when we speak of enhancements that benefit the recipient in positional terms and enhancements that are germ-line and which can be passed on to future generations. I argue that the egalitarian reluctance, as displayed by Max Mehlman (2003:2005), to permitting enhancements is overblown. Recent writings from Buchanan (2008) and Farrelly (2004) highlight a more positive, context-dependent, role for permitting the socio-economically advantaged the freedom to gain access to enhancements, including enhancements of traits associated with positional or competitive advantage. I argue that this reasoning also (necessarily) applies to germ-line enhancements or, at least, to 'effective germ-line enhancements.' In other words, I argue that such enhancements should be more seriously considered in terms of this positive context-dependent role. Nevertheless, this support is not unqualified. I critically re-examine concerns regarding the notion of the genetic underclass and I raise some worries about the possible adverse consequence of such a regulatory framework on sustaining the required egalitarian ethos. Importantly, such worries (and suggestions to address them) will be focused on the adverse effects of inequalities, rather than germ-line enhancements themselves.
For Me to Know and You to Find Out? Participatory Mechanisms, The Aarhus Convention and New Technologies
Authors: D'Silva Joel , van Calster Geert
Published: August 2010

The Aarhus Convention lays down a legislative framework for participatory rights in environmental matters and potentially has wide-ranging application in and across the European Union and its Member States. This analysis identifies how these participation requirements can or may be imposed upon the European Commission as it sets about developing a regulatory framework for nanotechnologies. It then proceeds to identify a set of practical guidelines regarding public participation and nanotechnologies that could guide and assist the Commission in its current work on nanotechnology regulation. It is also suggested that these guidelines could provide an appropriate basis for assisting in the development of a suitable regulatory framework for new technologies in the future.
Expression of Human Chemerin Induces Insulin Resistance in the Skeletal Muscle but Does Not Affect Weight, Lipid Levels, and Atherosclerosis in LDL Receptor Knockout Mice on High-Fat Diet
Authors: Becker Melanie , Rabe Katja , Lebherz Corinna , Zugwurst Julia , Göke Burkhard , Parhofer Klaus G. , Lehrke Michael , Broedl Uli C.
Published: August 2010

OBJECTIVE

Chemerin is a recently discovered hepatoadipokine that regulates adipocyte differentiation as well as chemotaxis and activation of dendritic cells and macrophages. Chemerin was reported to modulate insulin sensitivity in adipocytes and skeletal muscle cells in vitro and to exacerbate glucose intolerance in several mouse models in vivo. In humans, chemerin was shown to be associated with multiple components of the metabolic syndrome including BMI, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, and hypertension. This study aimed to examine the effect of chemerin on weight, glucose and lipid metabolism, as well as atherosclerosis in vivo.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used recombinant adeno-associated virus to express human chemerin in LDL receptor knockout mice on high-fat diet.

RESULTS

Expression of chemerin did not significantly alter weight, lipid levels, and extent of atherosclerosis. Chemerin, however, significantly increased glucose levels during the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test without affecting endogenous insulin levels and the insulin tolerance test. Chemerin reduced insulin-stimulated Akt1 phosphorylation and activation of 5′AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the skeletal muscle, but had no effect on Akt phosphorylation and insulin-stimulated AMPK activation in the liver and gonadal adipose tissue.

CONCLUSIONS

Chemerin induces insulin resistance in the skeletal muscle in vivo. Chemerin is involved in the cross talk between liver, adipose tissue, and skeletal muscle.