bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Involvement of Cytosolic Phospholipase A2α in MMP-9 Up-regulation
Authors: Montreekachon P. , Chotjumlong P. , Reutrakul V. , Krisanaprakornkit S.
Published: October 2009

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) is important in the pathogenesis of periodontitis. Cytosolic phospholipase A2α (cPLA2α) is involved in MMP-9 up-regulation in human monocytes. We tested the hypothesis that cPLA2α also regulates MMP-9 induction by Fusobacterium nucleatum and by phorbol 12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) in gingival epithelial cells. While PMA induced MMP-9 expression considerably, F. nucleatum did so moderately. This time-course study demonstrated that MMP-9 mRNA up-regulation occurred at 3 hours, whereas MMP-9 secretion and activity in cell-free supernatants occurred at 12 hours. cPLA2α mRNA was constitutively expressed in gingival epithelial cells. Transient activation of cPLA2 by Ser505 phosphorylation was observed in the nuclei upon stimulation, suggesting its role as a transcription factor, while cPLA2 protein expression remained unchanged. Induction of MMP-9 expression and activity was significantly inhibited by 1 μM of the specific cPLA2α inhibitor (P < 0.01). These findings demonstrate the involvement of cPLA2α in MMP-9 up-regulation.
Bacterial Interactions in Dental Biofilm Development
Authors: Hojo K. , Nagaoka S. , Ohshima T. , Maeda N.
Published: October 2009

Recent analyses with ribosomal RNA-based technologies have revealed the diversity of bacterial populations within dental biofilms, and have highlighted their important contributions to oral health and disease. Dental biofilms are exceedingly complex and multispecies ecosystems, where oral bacteria interact cooperatively or competitively with other members. Bacterial interactions that influence dental biofilm communities include various different mechanisms. During the early stage of biofilm formation, it is known that planktonic bacterial cells directly attach to surfaces of the oral cavity or indirectly bind to other bacterial cells that have already colonized. Adherence through co-aggregation may be critical for the temporary retention of bacteria on dental surfaces, and may facilitate eventual bacterial colonization. It is likely that metabolic communication, genetic exchange, production of inhibitory factors ( e.g., bacteriocins, hydrogen peroxide, etc.), and quorum-sensing are pivotal regulatory factors that determine the bacterial composition and/or metabolism. Since each bacterium can easily access a neighboring bacterial cell and its metabolites, genetic exchanges and metabolic communication may occur frequently in dental biofilms. Quorum-sensing is defined as gene regulation in response to cell density, which influences various functions, e.g., virulence and bacteriocin production. In this review, we discuss these important interactions among oral bacteria within the dental biofilm communities.
Microbial Interactions Influence Inflammatory Host Cell Responses
Authors: Sliepen I. , Van Damme J. , Van Essche M. , Loozen G. , Quirynen M. , Teughels W.
Published: October 2009

The inflammatory response plays an important role in the tissue destruction associated with periodontitis. Bacterial species can regulate the inflammatory responses of host cells, triggered by pathogens. It was hypothesized that, in the field of oral microbiology/immunology, such effects of bacterial interactions on inflammatory host cell responses might also be present. In this study, the effects of beneficial, commensal, and pathogenic species on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans-induced interleukin-8 (IL-8) production by human cells were investigated. The beneficial species, Streptococcus mitis, Streptococcus salivarius, and Streptococcus sanguinis, were able to lower the IL-8 production triggered by A. actinomycetemcomitans. The inhibitory effect was also achieved by the application of streptococcal supernatants. In contrast, the commensal Streptococcus gordonii caused no reduction, and the pathogen Fusobacterium nucleatum increased IL-8 production by the host cells. These results show that bacterial species can influence the inflammatory responses of host cells triggered by infection with A. actinomycetemcomitans.
Nano-cotton Fabrics with High Ultraviolet Protection
Authors: Paul Roshan , Bautista Lorenzo , De la Varga Meritxell , Botet Jose Maria , Casals Eudald , Puntes Victor , Marsal Feliu
Published: October 2009

Ultraviolet resistant cotton fabrics were developed by coating with ZnO and TiO2 nanoparticles. The ZnO nanoparticles applied on cotton yarns were found to withstand the knitting operation. Meanwhile, the TiO 2 nanoparticles applied on the bleached as well as reactive dyed cotton fabrics by the sol-gel and linking agent methods were found to be intact after various cycles of domestic washing. Knitted fabrics containing ZnO nanoparticles showed moderate to high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) values, whereas 50+ UPF values were measured for the TiO2-coated samples. Further it was found that the rutile phase was better than anatase phase in blocking UV rays. The developed process can be easily adapted to the existing textile machinery, making it industrially viable.
Forming Regression-based Mathematical Models to Predict PET POY Yarn Properties in the Case of Changing Production Parameters
Authors: Yildirim Kenan , Ulcay Yusuf , Kopmaz Osman
Published: October 2009

This study comprises investigations of the effect of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) POY (poly oriented yarn) production parameters on the crystallinity degree, which is involved in the structure of the yarn and performing prediction equations based on a non-linear regression mathematical model. Although there are many production parameters which affect the yarn properties, quenching air temperature, quenching air speed and winding speed were selected for the POY process. Yarn samples were produced in three different levels of each of selected parameters and tested to investigate how the crystallinity degree changes. Measured properties of PET POY were tensile strength, tensile strain, draw force, crystallinity degree based on differential scanning calorimetry technique, dye uptake ( K/ S), brightness and boiling water shrinkage. In order to obtain empirical formulas for predicting the change of POY properties with respect to selected production parameters, the yarns were produced in 27 different combinations. The starting point of the empirical equation is based on a completely randomized variance analyses model. The coefficients of the curves fitted were computed by means of non-linear regression analysis. R2 values for these curves were observed to be highly reliable being about 0.8.
The Use of pH-indicator Dyes for pH-sensitive Textile Materials
Authors: Van der Schueren L. , De Clerck K.
Published: October 2009

The development of halochromic textile materials could lead to interesting end-use applications as it offers the potential for flexible pH-sensors with a first warning signal. Research on halochromic textiles, especially on the development of these materials using a simple and economic beneficial dyeing process, is however very limited. Therefore, we studied color-changing textile materials with a pH-sensitivity based on the dyeing of conventional textiles with standard watersoluble pH-indicator dyes. In a first broad screening, a set of pH-indicators is evaluated on their dyeing performance and their color change with a change in pH. After this, some promising indicators (Brilliant Yellow and Alizarin) are selected and studied in more detail. It was found that the indicators show different characteristics on the textile materials compared with the solution due to dye—fiber interactions. The properties of the pHindicator dyes are also dependant on the fiber type. Moreover, in case of Brilliant Yellow this thesis was confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Generally, it can be concluded that it is feasible to develop a pH-sensor with pH-indicator dyes and conventional textile materials using a standard dyeing process.
Application of an Adaptive Neuro-fuzzy System for Prediction of Initial Load—Extension Behavior of Plain-woven Fabrics
Authors: Hadizadeh M. , Amani Tehran M. , Jeddi Ali A. A.
Published: October 2009

An adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) allows a level of flexibility over traditional mathematical models in defining and evaluating constraints. This flexibility is very important in modeling complicated non-linear processes, where the system behavioral characteristics cannot be defined precisely. This paper introduces an ANFIS for predicting initial load—extension behavior of plain-woven fabrics. Input values defined as combination expressions of geometrical parameters of fabric and yarn flexural rigidity, which were extracted from Leaf’s mathematical model. The results show that the neuro-fuzzy system can be used for modeling initial modulus in the warp and weft directions of plain-woven fabrics. Outputs of the neuro-fuzzy model were also compared with results obtained by Leaf’s models.
Lack of Electrocardiographic Effect of Dexlansoprazole MR, a Novel Modified‐Release Formulation of the Proton Pump Inhibitor Dexlansoprazole, in Healthy Participants
Authors: Vakily Majid , Wu Jingtao , Atkinson Stuart N.
Published: October 2009

The effect of the proton pump inhibitor dexlansoprazole, an enantiomer of lansoprazole, on QT intervals was assessed after oral administration of a modified‐release formulation of dexlansoprazole (dexlansoprazole MR). In this randomized, positive‐comparator, placebo‐controlled, 4‐period crossover study, 40 healthy participants received single doses of dexlansoprazole MR 90 mg, dexlansoprazole MR 300 mg, moxifloxacin 400 mg, and placebo separated by 5‐day washout intervals. Twenty‐four‐hour electrocardiograms were obtained at baseline and during each dosing period. The number and percentage of participants experiencing an increase in QT interval from baseline to maximum postdose value were evaluated during each dosing regimen, and pharmacokinetic profiles of dexlansoprazole and moxifloxacin were obtained. The mean maximum Fridericia‐corrected QT (QTcF) intervals were similar for both doses of dexlansoprazole MR and placebo but were significantly greater with moxifloxacin (P ≤ .001). With both doses of dexlansoprazole MR, the placebo‐adjusted mean change from baseline in QTcF intervals was <5 ms, and the upper boundaries of the 95% 1‐sided confidence intervals were <10 ms at all time points. Pharmacokinetic analysis indicated that QT intervals were measured at the time of maximum drug plasma concentration. Neither dexlansoprazole MR 90 mg nor 300 mg prolonged QTcF intervals in healthy participants. Both doses were well tolerated.
Living with advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: patients concerns regarding death and dying
Authors: Gardiner Clare , Gott Merryn , Small Neil , Payne Sheila , Seamark David , Barnes Sarah , Halpin David , Ruse Charlotte
Published: October 2009

Prognosis in COPD is poor and many patients perceive shortcomings in the education they receive about aspects of their condition. This study explores the experiences of patients with COPD, particularly fears surrounding death and dying. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 21 patients with moderate or severe COPD. Findings revealed that patient understanding of COPD was poor, most patients were unaware of the progressive nature of the condition, and few were aware they could die of COPD. Despite this, patients often expressed concerns that their condition might deteriorate. Patients had particular concerns regarding the manner of their death; the overriding fear was dying of breathlessness or suffocation. None of the patients’ had discussed these fears with a health care professional. Improved patient education is needed in order to improve patients understanding of their condition and prognosis. Open communication regarding death, as advocated in a palliative care approach, is also appropriate to alleviate patients fears and to allow them to make decisions regarding the management of their care at the end of life.
Serotonin function in pathological gambling: blunted growth hormone response to Sumatriptan
Authors: Pallanti Stefano , Bernardi Silvia , Allen Andrea , Hollander Eric
Published: October 2009

Pathological gambling is a disruptive behaviour and an important public health concern that is classified as an impulse control disorder, and is also conceptualized as a prototype of 'behavioural addiction’. Its phenomenology cannot be reduced to a single neurobiological dysfunction; instead, it has been conceived as a complex chain of events in which the serotonergic system (5-HT) has often been suggested as one of the most prominent involved. Acute administration of Sumatriptan, a selective 5-HT1B/1D agonist, has been used to investigate the functional responsivity of 5-HT1B/1D receptors in alcoholics, resulting in a blunted growth hormone response. These findings have been interpreted as being due to the down-regulation of these receptors. However, previous studies could not rule out the possibility that the changes in receptor function were induced by chronic substance exposure. Twenty-two pathological gamblers and 19 healthy control subjects were evaluated in response to double-blind administration of both a single dose of oral Sumatriptan (100 mg) and of placebo in a crossover design. All participants were screened to ensure that they were negative for lifetime alcohol and drug addiction, and had been free of substance abuse for at least 6 months. Outcome measures included growth hormone, prolactin, gambling severity, mood, craving and 'high’ change scales. A blunted growth hormone response was observed in pathological gamblers compared with healthy controls after Sumatriptan administration. No statistically significant differences were found for prolactin or behavioural measures, except for an increase in anxiety over time in pathological gamblers. These results, together with those obtained in our previous serotoninergic challenge study, document the presence of a serotonergic dysfunction in pathological gamblers similar to that reported in alcoholics.
Does cannabis use affect prospective memory in young adults?
Authors: Bartholomew Janice , Holroyd Steve , Heffernan Thomas M
Published: October 2009

The aim of the present study was to examine prospective memory impairments associated with cannabis use in young adults. An independent measures design utilising pre-existing groups of users and non-users was employed in which an opportunity sample of 90 undergraduates studying at universities in the north east of England participated. The number of prospective memory failures reported on the Prospective Memory Questionnaire and the number of location—action combinations correctly recalled during a video-based prospective memory task were measured. The number of strategies used to assist memory, level of anxiety and depression, and use of alcohol, nicotine and any other recreational drugs in addition to cannabis were also measured and controlled during the analysis. Analysis revealed no significant differences in the number of self-reported prospective memory failures; however, cannabis users recalled significantly fewer location—action combinations than non-users in the video-based prospective memory task. The findings from the present study suggest that cannabis use has a detrimental effect on prospective memory ability in young adults but users may not be aware of these deficits.
The clinical significance of antidepressant treatment effects cannot be derived from placebo-verum response differences
Authors: Hegerl U. , Mergl R.
Published: October 2009

A placebo—verum difference in antidepressant response of at least three points on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale has been proposed as the threshold for clinical significance in antidepressant trials. Given the considerable clinical and regulatory consequences of such a definition of clinical relevance it deserves a critical discussion. Eight arguments are presented indicating that using this definition as a criterion for assessing the clinical utility of antidepressants in daily practice would risk erroneously discarding treatments with a clear benefit for patients.
Doxycycline-Mediated Inhibition of Matrix Metalloproteinases Improves Healing after Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Bedi Asheesh , Fox Alice J. S. , Kovacevic David , Deng Xeng-hua , Warren Russell F. , Rodeo Scott A.
Published: October 2009

Background

Recent studies demonstrate a potentially critical role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors in the pathophysiology of rotator cuff tears.

Hypothesis

Doxycycline-mediated MMP inhibition after rotator cuff repair will improve tendon-to-bone healing.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Rats (n = 183) underwent acute detachment and repair of the supraspinatus tendon and the animals were divided into 4 groups: In controls (n = 66), the supraspinatus was repaired to its anatomical footprint. In experimental groups, an identical surgery was performed with doxycycline (130 mg/kg/d) administered orally at (1) preoperative day 1 (n = 66), (2) postoperative day (POD) 5 (n = 28), or (3) POD 14 (n = 23). Animals were sacrificed at 5 days, 8 days, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Tendon-bone interface was evaluated with histomorphometry. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for local MMP-13 activity was performed at 8 days and 4 weeks. Biomechanical testing of the healing enthesis was performed at 8 days, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks. Serum doxycycline levels were measured at sacrifice. Statistical analysis was performed using unpaired t tests and 2-way analysis of variance (P < .05).

Results

Serum doxycycline levels were significantly higher in all treated groups compared with controls (1830 ± 835 vs 3 ± 3 ng/mL, respectively; P < .001). Doxycycline-treated animals demonstrated greater metachromasia and improved collagen organization at the healing enthesis at POD 5 (P < .06), POD 8 (P < .03), and 2 weeks (P < .04). The MMP-13 activity was significantly reduced in doxycycline-treated compared with control animals at POD 8 (6740 ± 2770 vs 10400 ± 2930 relative fluorescent units [RFU], respectively; P < .02) but not at 4 weeks (3600 ± 3280 vs 4530 ± 2720 RFU, respectively). The healing enthesis of animals started on doxycycline preoperatively or at POD 5 had an increased load to failure compared to controls at 2 weeks (13.6 ± 1.8 and 13.2 ± 1.94 N vs 9.1 ± 2.5 N, respectively; P < .01).

Conclusion/Clinical Relevance

Modulation of MMP-13 activity after rotator cuff repair may offer a novel biological pathway to augment tendon-to-bone healing.
Experimental Investigations of Fire Spread and Flashover Time in Office Fires
Authors: Lai Chi-Ming , Ho Ming-Chin , Lin Ta-Hui
Published: October 2009

The characteristics of, prediction models for, and experimental data pertaining to flashover in full-scale room fires were first reviewed. Then, initiation, growth, full development, and decay of three office fire scenarios were experimentally explored using a 10 MW fire test facility and continuous online combustion gas analysis. The conditions for flashover were investigated and compared with correlations in the literature. The model office compartment is an aerated lightweight concrete structure with dimensions of 5 m × 6 m and with a net room height of 2.4—3.3 m. The results show that the measured minimum heat release rate at flashover is consistent with the correlations of Babrauskas [5] and McCaffrey et al. [6]. Based on the fundamental definition of flashover using the ‘energy-filling’ concept it is possible to predict the flashover time via a case-based reasoning method. However, more work is needed to further validate this concept.
Stress and Coping in African American Women With Chronic Heart Disease: A Cultural Cognitive Coping Model
Authors: Warren-Findlow Jan , Issel L. Michele
Published: October 2009

This article examines the role of stress in relation to heart disease self-care among African American women. Women described a unique stress-coping model: Stress was a cause and contributor to “bad heart” and associated with “not worrying.” Family history of heart disease was used as an experiential reference scale to evaluate the severity of women’s heart health. Stress attributions were associated with coping practices to manage the effect of illness through emotion-focused coping and with the physiological worsening of their condition. This model highlights opportunities to reframe stress-coping activities into culturally based heart-healthy practices for African American women.
The Revolving Door: High ER Use Among Older Veterans
Authors: Claver Maria L. , Levy-Storms Lené
Published: October 2009

Why do some older veterans visit the emergency room (ER) frequently? This study expands an existing decision-making model that describes how ER users recognize symptoms of a health problem, decide to seek medical care for the health problem, and decide to visit the ER specifically for the medical care. The focus of this inquiry is the role of older veterans’ social support networks in decisions to visit the ER. Data were collected through in-depth, semistructured, in-person interviews with 30 community-dwelling, high-functioning veterans aged 65 years and older who had visited the ER frequently (3 or more times) in the previous year. We found that the older veteran study participants, regardless of the availability of social support, preferred to make decisions independently, relied heavily on formal social support network members, and received various types of assistance to visit the ER from informal social support networks.
Compensatory Changes at the Cerebral Cortical Level after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Nishimura Yukio , Isa Tadashi
Published: October 2009

Neurorehabilitation is based on the concept that rehabilitative training recruits neuronal systems that remain intact after the brain and/or spinal cord injury to take over the impaired function. Understanding the neural mechanism of recovery will surely contribute to the development of evidence-based rehabilitation therapies. Recent studies have shown that after a lesion of the lateral corticospinal tract at midcervical segments, the remaining pathways can compensate for finger dexterity in macaque monkeys in a few weeks to months. Combined brain imaging and reversible pharmacological inactivation of motor cortical regions suggested that the recovery involves the bilateral primary motor cortex during the early recovery stage and more extensive regions of the contralesional primary motor cortex and bilateral premotor cortex during the late stage. Thus, contribution of each cortical region changes depending on the recovery stage, suggesting that the brain uses available pre-existing neural systems by reducing inhibition during the early stage and enhances the original systems or recruits other systems by plastic change of the neural circuits during the late stage. These changes in the activation pattern of motor-related areas represent an adaptive strategy for functional compensation after spinal cord injury.
The Noninvasive Dissection of the Human Visual Cortex: Using fMRI and TMS to Study the Organization of the Visual Brain
Authors: McKeefry Declan J. , Gouws Andre , Burton Mark P. , Morland Antony B.
Published: October 2009

The development of brain imaging techniques, such as fMRI, has given modern neuroscientists unparalleled access to the inner workings of the living human brain. Visual processing in particular has proven to be particularly amenable to study with fMRI. Studies using this technique have revealed the existence of multiple representations of visual space with differing functional roles across many cortical locations. Yet, although fMRI provides an excellent means by which we can localize and map different areas across the visual brain, it is less well suited to providing information as to whether activation within a particular cortical region is directly related to perception or behavior. These kinds of causal links can be made, however, when fMRI is combined with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS is a noninvasive technique that can bring about localized, transient disruption of cortical function and can induce functional impairments in the performance of specific tasks. When guided by the detailed localizing and mapping capabilities of fMRI, TMS can be used as a means by which the functional roles of different visual areas can be investigated. This review highlights recent insights that the techniques of fMRI and TMS have given us with regard to the function and contributions of the many different visual areas to human visual perception.
Isolated Renal Vein Thrombosis Associated With MTHFR-1298 and PAI-1 4G Gene Mutations
Authors: Cinemre Hakan , Bilir Cemil , Akdemir Nermin
Published: October 2009

Isolated renal vein thrombosis is very rare without the presence of nephrotic syndrome. It is more common in the newborns and infants. Whereas major risk factors in adults are the procoagulant states such as protein C or S deficiency, factor V Leiden mutation, primary or secondary antiphospholipid syndrome, severe hypothyroidism, and trauma. Here, we report a case of isolated renal vein thrombosis associated with MTHFR-1298 and PAI-1 4G gene mutations. It should be noted that the presence of MTHFR-1298 and PAI-1 4G gene mutations together might be one of the examples of genetic mutation combinations that increase the likelihood of a thrombotic event.
Fondaparinux for the Treatment of Acute Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Grouzi Elisavet , Kyriakou Elias , Panagou Ioannis , Spiliotopoulou Ioanna
Published: October 2009

Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is a life-threatening immune response to heparin that is associated with a high risk of thromboembolic complications. The syndrome is caused by antibodies that are reactive against complexes of platelet factor 4/heparin (PF4/H). For patients with HIT, the discontinuation of heparin alone is not sufficient and the diagnosis necessitates the administration of an alternative anticoagulant. Fondaparinux is a synthetic pentasaccharide that binds to antithrombin and potentiates inhibition of factor Xa. Data have shown that fondaparinux is structurally too short to induce an antibody response and could be a useful agent to treat HIT. In our hospital, we retrospectively analyzed the use of fondaparinux in the treatment of 24 patients with acute HIT during unfractionated heparin (UFH) or low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) administration and compared the results to a similar population of 20 patients who were treated with lepirudin. The treated patients had a complete platelet count recovery, and none experienced a new thromboembolic complication or major bleeding. The development of limb gangrene (2 patients who received lepirudin and 1 who received fondaparinux) likely resulted from a delay in diagnosis and treatment initiation. Our data suggest that fondaparinux may be considered a safe and an effective alternative treatment in HIT complicated with or without thrombosis.
Fibrinogen, Hematocrit, Platelets in Mild Kidney Dysfunction and the Role of Uric Acid: An Italian Male Population Study
Authors: Corrêa Leite Maria Léa
Published: October 2009

Aim: To examine the relationship between some blood parameters and mild kidney dysfunction. Participants and Methods: A total of 719 Italian men aged 42 to 74 years from a population-based survey carried out in the town of Bollate (Milan). General linear models were used to examine the variations in plasma fibrinogen, hematocrit, platelet counts, mean platelet volume, and uric acid across levels of kidney function (estimated on the basis of glomerular filtration rate [GFR]), adjusting for age, education, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity (evaluated as TV watching, engaging in sport practice, and walking/cycling), waist circumference, arm muscle area, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, triglycerides, hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease history, and nonsteroid anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and antihypertensive drug use. Results: Plasma fibrinogen and hematocrit levels increased, and platelet counts and mean platelet volume significantly decreased as GFR fell to <80 or <70 mL/min per 1.73 m2; stratified analysis revealed an association with serum uric acid levels. Alterations compatible with an increased cardiovascular risk were particularly evident among the participants with higher uric acid levels, whereas those indicative of platelet dysfunction were found among participants with lower levels. Conclusions: Parameters affecting hemostasis and blood viscosity are altered when kidney function is only slightly reduced, and the patterns of these relationships seem to be influenced by the levels of serum uric acid, whose easy and inexpensive measurement could have prognostic value.
Batroxobin Mobilizes Circulating Endothelial Progenitor Cells in Patients With Deep Vein Thrombosis
Authors: Lei Zhang  , Shi Hong Lu  , Li Li  , Tao Yu-Guo , Yong Ling Wan  , Senga Hirobumi , Renchi Yang  , Zhong Chao Han
Published: October 2009

Batroxobin, a thrombin-like enzyme from Bothrops atrox moojeni venom, is associated with the reduction of fibrinogen levels in plasma and the enhancement of anticoagulation and fibrinolysis. In this study, 15 patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) achieved successful limb salvage after the administration of batroxobin. We found that the levels of CD34+, CD31+, CD34+/CD31+, and vascular endothelial cadherin (VE-cadherin+) cells had increased in the peripheral blood of patients at 7 days and 14 days after treatment. At 0 day, 7 days, and 14 days, the percentages of CD34+ cells, which are assumed to be hematopoietic stem cells, are 0.39% ± 0.43%, 0.71% ± 0.50%, and 1.11% ± 0.66%, respectively. The levels of CD34+ cells at 14 days are significantly higher than the levels on the first day (P = .004). The levels of CD31+ cells and VE-cadherin+ cells, which represent mature endothelial cells, at 7 days (34.15% ± 11.32%, P = .013; 1.25% ± 1.39%, P = .014) and 14 days (35.21% ± 7.66%, P = .071; 1.85% ± 2.60%, P = .117) were slightly elevated compared with those at 0 day (27.55% ± 8.65%; 0.25 ± 0.39%). The double positive of CD34 and CD31 cells are assumed to be endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs). The levels of CD34+/CD31+ cells at 7 days (0.69% ± 0.50%, P = .001) and 14 days (1.07% ± 0.66%, P = .006) are significantly higher than that on the initial day (0.28% ± 0.30%). The number of CD34+/CD31+ cells significantly increased, indicating that in addition to its role in anticoagulation and fibrinolysis, treatment with batroxobin might simultaneously activate circulating EPCs that might promote the recanalization of the damaged vessel wall.
The PPARγ Pro12Ala variant is associated with insulin sensitivity in Russian normoglycaemic and type 2 diabetic subjects
Authors: Chistiakov Dimitry A. , Potapov Viktor A. , Khodirev Dmitry S. , Shamkhalova Minara S. , Shestakova Marina V. , Nosikov Valery V.
Published: October 2009

The second isoform of the PPARγ2 is specific for adipose tissue. In adipocytes, this isoform is involved in the regulation of adipogenesis and lipid storage, insulin and glucose metabolism. Pro12Ala, a missense mutation in exon 2 of PPARG, reduces transcriptional activity of PPARγ2 and is shown to be associated with increased insulin sensitivity and protection from T2D. Previously, this polymorphism has never been assessed in a Russian population for its relationship to T2D, insulin resistance, and diabetes-related metabolic traits. In this study, we tested 588 Russian T2D patients and 597 normoglycaemic controls. Carriers of the Pro12 allele and subjects homozygous for Pro/Pro had significantly increased risk of developing T2D (OR 1.43 and 2.04, respectively). In Pro/Pro homozygotes, adjustment for potential confounding risk factors resulted in reducing the OR value from 2.04 to 1.69, but the association remained significant (p=0.046).The Pro/Pro genotype also showed association with increased levels of fasting insulin (p=0.019) in non-diabetic controls and elevated serum triglycerides (p=0.019) in T2D patients. Compared with other genotypes, non-diabetic and diabetic subjects homozygous for Pro/Pro had a significantly higher HOMA-IR score and reduced ISI value. This observation strongly supports the implication of the PPARG Pro12Ala in insulin resistance and T2D in a Russian population.
Benefits of Laparoscopic Fellowship Training: A Survey of Former Fellows
Authors: Grover Brandon T. , Kothari Shanu N. , Kallies Kara J. , Mathiason Michelle A.
Published: October 2009

Objective: The objective of this study was to assess the impact of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) fellowship training on the fellows’ clinical practice as well as former fellows’ perception of their fellowship experience. Methods: A survey composed of 50 multiple-choice questions was e-mailed to 268 former MIS fellows who began a fellowship in the United States between 2000 and 2005. E-mail addresses were obtained from Covidien, an industry sponsor of MIS fellowships. Results: The response rate was 30%. The most frequent reason for choosing an MIS fellowship was to enhance laparoscopic skills (34%). A total of 85% believed that an MIS fellowship provided an edge on referral of advanced laparoscopic procedures. In all, 75% indicated that their fellowship was extremely beneficial, and 86% would recommend their former fellowship to future applicants. Conclusion: The majority of respondents felt that their MIS fellowship experience was beneficial and had a positive impact on their laparoscopic knowledge base, skills, referrals, and career.
A Closer Look at the Individual and Joint Effects of Gender and Race on Juvenile Justice Decision Making
Authors: Leiber Michael J. , Brubaker Sarah Jane , Fox Kristan C.
Published: October 2009

Using the intersectional perspective and results from prior research, the individual and combination relationships of gender and race with juvenile justice decision making are examined in one jurisdiction in a Midwestern state. Results reveal that both gender and race, individually and jointly, influence case outcomes net relevant legal and extralegal considerations. These relationships involve receiving both more severe and more lenient outcomes and point to the variable effects of gender and race in juvenile justice proceedings.
Empowering Parents to Prevent Unintentional Childhood Injuries
Authors: Huitric Michele A. , Borse Nagesh N. , Sleet David A.
Published: October 2009

On average, 33 children die each day in the United States— about 12 000 children a year— because of unintentional childhood injuries. Another 9 million children are treated in emergency departments for unintentional injuries each year. To address this issue, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Injury Prevention and Control has launched a new initiative focused on parents: Protect the Ones You Love: Child Injuries Are Preventable. As trusted sources of health information, physicians and health care providers can use the initiative and the related ancillary materials to inform parents and caregivers about lifestyle changes that reduce the risk and potential harmful outcomes of an injury to a child or other family member.
The mental well-being of prison nurses in England and Wales
Authors: Walsh Elizabeth , Freshwater Dawn
Published: October 2009

Much has been written about the mental health of prisoner patients; however, consideration of the mental well-being of the prison nursing workforce has been limited. In this paper, we highlight some of the key issues currently affecting the mental well-being of nurses working in prison and, through a discussion of a nationally funded study, share our experience of the value both of clinical supervision and action learning in providing a supportive environment for those working with prisoner patients. Policy agendas such as overcrowding and organisational change affecting commissioning arrangements were pivotal to both the scope and findings of the study. This paper foregrounds clinical supervision and reflective practice but considers emotional labour to be a fundamental premise when considering their importance for prison nurses.
Involvement of an alternatively spliced mitochondrial oxodicarboxylate carrier in adipogenesis in 3T3-L1 cells
Authors: Niimi Masashi , Tao Lian , Lin Shi-Hua , Yin Jun , Wu Xiaoyun , Fukui Hiroyuki , Kambayashi Junichi , Ye Jianping , Sun Bing
Published: October 2009

Background

Adipogenesis is a complex process that involves many genes/proteins at different stages of differentiation. In order to identify genes critical for adipogeneis, we took a novel approach based on phenotype change of individual cell, to search for genes with regulatory roles in adipogenesis genome-wide in 3T3-L1 cells.

Methods

Lentivirus-based inducible random homologous knockdown was used for the screening of functional gene that altered lipid formation in the adipocyte during differentiation.

Results

In the present study, we reported the identification of an alternatively spliced mitochondrial oxodicarboxylate carrier (ODC), so named ODC-AS. ODC-AS is different from ODC by replacing 22 amino acids with 29 amino acids at the N-terminal. ODC was widely expressed in most tissues in mouse as determined by multi-tissue cDNA panel polymerase chain reaction. However, ODC-AS was only detected in adipose tissue and in iris and sclera-choroid complex of the eye. The expression of ODC-AS in 3T3-L1 was detected after the induction of differentiation, and reached a peak at day 4 and then reduced thereafter, whereas no ODC transcript detected in the cells neither before nor after differentiation. Knocking down of ODC-AS expression by RNA interference led to significant reduction in lipid accumulation as determined by triglyceride measurement and Nile Red staining, as well as adipogenic marker CEBPα, PPARγ, aP2 and CD36. Although both ODC and ODC-AS are expressed in white and brown adipose tissues, only the expression of ODC-AS was down-regulated in brown adipose tissue by cold exposure.

Conclusion

These results implicate that ODC-AS may promote lipid accumulation during adipocyte differentiation and play an important role in the regulation of lipid metabolism in adipose tissues.
Establishment of canine hemangiosarcoma xenograft models expressing endothelial growth factors, their receptors, and angiogenesis-associated homeobox genes
Authors: Kodama Atsushi , Sakai Hiroki , Matsuura Satoko , Murakami Mami , Murai Atsuko , Mori Takashi , Maruo Kouji , Kimura Tohru , Masegi Toshiaki , Yanai Tokuma
Published: October 2009

Background

Human hemangiosarcoma (HSA) tends to have a poor prognosis; its tumorigenesis has not been elucidated, as there is a dearth of HSA clinical specimens and no experimental model for HSA. However, the incidence of spontaneous HSA is relatively high in canines; therefore, canine HSA has been useful in the study of human HSA. Recently, the production of angiogenic growth factors and their receptors in human and canine HSA has been reported. Moreover, the growth-factor environment of HSA is very similar to that of pathophysiological angiogenesis, which some homeobox genes regulate in the transcription of angiogenic molecules. In the present study, we established 6 xenograft canine HSA tumors and detected the expression of growth factors, their receptors, and angiogenic homeobox genes.

Methods

Six primary canine HSAs were xenografted to nude mice subcutaneously and serially transplanted. Subsequently, the expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, basic fibroblast growth factors (bFGF), flt-1 and flk-1 (receptors of VEGF-A), FGFR-1, and angiogenic homeobox genes HoxA9, HoxB3, HoxB7, HoxD3, Pbx1, and Meis1 were investigated in original and xenograft tumors by histopathology, immunostaining, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), using canine-specific primer sets.

Results

Histopathologically, xenograft tumors comprised a proliferation of neoplastic cells that were varied in shape, from spindle-shaped and polygonal to ovoid; some vascular-like structures and vascular clefts of channels were observed, similar to those in the original tumors. The expression of endothelial markers (CD31 and vWF) was detected in xenograft tumors by immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR. Moreover, the expression of VEGF-A, bFGF, flt-1, flk-1, FGFR-1, HoxA9, HoxB3, HoxB7, HoxD3, Pbx1, and Meis1 was detected in xenograft tumors. Interestingly, expressions of bFGF tended to be higher in 3 of the xenograft HSA tumors than in the other tumors.

Conclusion

We established 6 xenograft canine HSA tumors in nude mice and found that the expressions of angiogenic growth factors and their receptors in xenograft HSAs were similar to those in spontaneous HSA. Furthermore, we detected the expression of angiogenic homeobox genes; therefore, xenograft models may be useful in analyzing malignant growth in HSA.
Portrait of a lengthy vaccination trajectory in Burkina Faso: from cultural acceptance of vaccines to actual immunization
Authors: Dugas Marylène , Dubé Eric , Kouyaté Bocar , Sanou Aboubakary , Bibeau Gilles
Published: October 2009

Background

The global recognition of vaccination is strongly related to the fact that it has proved in the past able to dramatically reduce the incidence of certain diseases. Nevertheless, reactions regarding the practice of vaccination still vary among communities, affecting the worldwide vaccination coverage. Numerous studies, conducted from varying perspectives, have focused on explaining this active refusal or resistance to vaccination. Although in some cases low immunization coverage has been well explained by active refusal or resistance to vaccination, little is known about the reasons for low coverage where those reactions are absent or play a minor role, especially outside an epidemic context. This study attempts to explain this situation, which is found in the health district of Nouna in Burkina Faso.

Methods

An in-depth ethnographic study was undertaken in the health district of Nouna in an effort to understand, from an anthropological point of view, the logic behind the parental decision-making process regarding the vaccination or non-vaccination of children, in a context where rejection of, and reservations concerning vaccination are not major obstacles.

Results

Three elements emerged from the analysis: the empirical conceptions of childhood diseases, the perceived efficacy of vaccine and the knowledge of appropriate age for vaccination uptake; the gap between the decision-making process and the actual achievement of vaccination; and the vaccination procedure leading to vaccination uptake in the particular context of the health district of Nouna.

Conclusion

The procedures parents must follow in order to obtain vaccination for their children appear complex and constraining, and on certain points discord with the traditional systems of meaning and idioms of distress related to pregnancy, the prevention of childhood diseases and with the cultural matrix shaping decision-making and behaviour. Attention needs to be directed at certain promotional, logistical and structural elements, and at the procedure that must currently be followed to obtain vaccination for a child during routine vaccination sessions, which are currently limiting the active demand for vaccination.

Abstract in French

See the full article online for a translation of this abstract in French.
Predicting lung maturity in preterm rupture of membranes via lamellar bodies count from a vaginal pool: a cohort study
Authors: Salim Raed , Zafran Noah , Nachum Zohar , Garmi Gali , Shalev Eliezer
Published: October 2009

Background

Amniocentesis is the accepted mode of attaining amniotic fluid to perform tests for fetal lung maturity. The purpose of this study was to validate a non-invasive fetal lung maturity test by counting lamellar bodies from a vaginal pool among women with preterm premature rupture of membranes.

Methods

In a prospective study, amniotic fluid specimens were collected from a vaginal pool from women after preterm premature rupture of membranes with gestational age between 27 and 36 completed weeks. Receiver operating characteristics curve was estimated to assess the threshold of lamellar bodies' count that may predict fetal lung maturity.

Results

Seventy-five specimens were collected of which 17 were between 32 to 34 weeks. A lamellar bodies' count of 28,000 or more predicted mature fetus 100% of the time (specificity) among all women and also among women between 32 to 34 weeks. The sensitivity was 72% among all and 92% when gestational age was between 32 to 34 weeks. A count of 8,000 or less, predicted respiratory distress syndrome with a sensitivity of 98% among the whole group.

Conclusion

Counting of lamellar bodies in amniotic fluid from a vaginal pool may be used to predict fetal lung maturity.
Main roads to melanoma
Authors: Palmieri Giuseppe , Capone Mariaelena , Ascierto Maria Libera , Gentilcore Giusy , Stroncek David F , Casula Milena , Sini Maria Cristina , Palla Marco , Mozzillo Nicola , Ascierto Paolo A
Published: October 2009

The characterization of the molecular mechanisms involved in development and progression of melanoma could be helpful to identify the molecular profiles underlying aggressiveness, clinical behavior, and response to therapy as well as to better classify the subsets of melanoma patients with different prognosis and/or clinical outcome. Actually, some aspects regarding the main molecular changes responsible for the onset as well as the progression of melanoma toward a more aggressive phenotype have been described. Genes and molecules which control either cell proliferation, apoptosis, or cell senescence have been implicated. Here we provided an overview of the main molecular changes underlying the pathogenesis of melanoma. All evidence clearly indicates the existence of a complex molecular machinery that provides checks and balances in normal melanocytes. Progression from normal melanocytes to malignant metastatic cells in melanoma patients is the result of a combination of down- or up-regulation of various effectors acting on different molecular pathways.