bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tendency towards stigmatization of families of a person with autistic spectrum disorders
Authors: Milačić-Vidojević Ivona , Gligorović Milica , Dragojević Nada
Published: November 2012

Background:

Family members experience stigma via their connection with the affected member. Family stigma contains stereotypes of blame, shame and contamination.

Aim:

To establish the tendency towards stigmatization of family members of a person with autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) by a sample of the general public of Belgrade.

Methods:

The sample encompassed 181 participants, of various ages and levels of education, and of different, self-assessed levels of knowledge about autism. The structure of stigmatization of family members of a person with ASD was explored applying the Family Stigma Questionnaire (FSQ) and the Level of Familiarity Questionnaire (LFQ).

Results:

Analysis of the obtained results established that scores indicating the tendency towards stigmatization were most pronounced for variables connected to blame for deterioration of the condition of the person with autism, contamination of the individual family members by the condition, and to feeling pity for family members of a person with ASD. Statistically significant differences were established when the FSQ scores stigmatizing parents and siblings were compared. Significant differences in stigmatizing stereotypes were established according to gender and level of education, and according to the self-assessment of knowledge about autism and the level of previous contact to persons with mental disorders.

Conclusion:

Anti-stigma programmes are important especially bearing in mind that participants who self-evaluated as having the least knowledge about ASD demonstrated the highest tendency towards stigmatizing the parents of a person suffering from ASD, and those of lower education demonstrated the highest tendency towards stigmatizing the family members.
Higher order theory based Fourier analysis of cross-ply plates and doubly curved panels
Authors: Oktem Ahmet Sinan , Soares C Guedes
Published: November 2012

An analytical solution to the static analysis of a general cross-ply finite-dimensional doubly curved panel of rectangular plan-form, modeled using a higher order shear deformation theory, is presented. A solution methodology, based on boundary-discontinuous generalized double Fourier series approach is used to solve a system of five highly coupled linear partial differential equations, generated by the higher order-based laminated shell analysis, with the fully clamped type 4 (C4) boundary condition prescribed on two opposite edges, while the remaining two edges are subjected to the simply supported type 4 (SS4) constraint. The numerical accuracy of the solution is ascertained by studying the convergence characteristics of the deflection and moment of a cross-ply spherical panel, and also by comparison with the available results in literature. Additional comparisons were made with the finite element counterparts using commercially available software for distributed load. Hitherto unavailable important numerical results presented include sensitivity of the predicted response quantities of interest to shell geometry (cylindrical and spherical), lamination, lamina material property, thickness and membrane effects as well as their interactions.
Endothelial Differentiation of SHED Requires MEK1/ERK Signaling
Authors: Bento L.W. , Zhang Z. , Imai A. , Nör F. , Dong Z. , Shi S. , Araujo F.B. , Nör J.E.
Published: November 2012

The discovery that dental pulp stem cells are capable of differentiating into endothelial cells raises the exciting possibility that these cells can be a single source of odontoblasts and vascular networks in dental tissue engineering. The purpose of this study was to begin to define signaling pathways that regulate endothelial differentiation of SHED. Stem cells from exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) exposed to endothelial growth medium (EGM-2MV) supplemented with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) differentiated into VEGFR2-positive and CD31-positive endothelial cells in vitro. In vivo, VEGFR1-silenced SHED seeded in tooth slice/ scaffolds and transplanted into immunodeficient mice showed a reduction in human CD31-positive blood vessels as compared with controls (p = 0.02). Exposure of SHED to EGM2-MV supplemented with VEGF induced potent activation of ERK and Akt signaling, while it inhibited phosphorylation of STAT3. Notably, genetic (MEK1 silencing) or chemical (U0126) inhibition of ERK signaling restored constitutive STAT3 phosphorylation and inhibited the differentiation of SHED into endothelial cells. Collectively, analysis of these data unveiled the VEGF/MEK1/ERK signaling pathway as a key regulator of the endothelial differentiation of dental pulp stem cells.
The Effects of C-type Natriuretic Peptide on Craniofacial Skeletogenesis
Authors: Nakao K. , Okubo Y. , Yasoda A. , Koyama N. , Osawa K. , Isobe Y. , Kondo E. , Fujii T. , Miura M. , Nakao K. , Bessho K.
Published: November 2012

C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) is a potent stimulator of long bone and vertebral development via endochondral ossification. In the present study, we investigated the effects of CNP on craniofacial skeletogenesis, which consists of both endochondral and membranous ossification. Morphometric analyses of crania from CNP knockout and transgenic mice revealed that CNP stimulates longitudinal growth along the cranial length, but does not regulate cranial width. CNP markedly increased the length of spheno-occipital synchondrosis in fetal murine organ cultures, and the thickness of cultured murine chondrocytes from the spheno-occipital synchondrosis or nasal septum, resulting in the stimulation of longitudinal cranial growth. Mandibular growth includes endochondral and membranous ossification; although CNP stimulated endochondral bone growth of condylar cartilage in cultured fetal murine mandibles, differences in the lengths of the lower jaw between CNP knockout or transgenic mice and wild-type mice were smaller than those observed for the lengths of the upper jaw. These results indicate that CNP primarily stimulates endochondral ossification in the craniofacial region and is crucial for midfacial skeletogenesis.
Constructing “Behavioral” Comparison Groups
Authors: Lin Chaohsin , Hsu Shuofen
Published: November 2012

It is well known that the differences-in-differences (DD) estimator is based on the assumption that in the absence of treatment, the average outcomes for the treated group and the control group will follow a common trend over time. That can be problematic, especially when the selection for the treatment is influenced by the individual’s unobserved behavior correlating with the medical utilization. The aim of this study was to develop an index for controlling a patient’s unobserved heterogeneous response to reform, in order to improve the comparability of treatment assignment. This study showed that a DD estimator of the reform effects can be decomposed into effects induced by moral hazard and by changes in health risk within the same treated/untreated group. This article also presented evidence that the constructed index of the price elasticity of the adjusted clinical group has good statistical properties for identifying the impact of reform.
Comparing the Reverse Trendelenburg and Horizontal Position for Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Hathorn Iain F. , Habib Al‐Rahim R. , Manji Jamil , Javer Amin R.
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine whether the 15‐degree reverse Trendelenburg position (RTP) during functional endoscopic sinus surgery improves endoscopic field of view and reduces intraoperative blood loss when compared with the horizontal position (HP).

Study Design

A prospective, randomized controlled trial.

Setting

St Paul’s Sinus Centre, Vancouver, Canada.

Subjects

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS), with or without nasal polyposis, receiving functional endoscopic sinus surgery were included. Patients were excluded if they had severe or uncontrolled hypertension and cardiovascular disease, continued use of anticoagulants, impaired coagulation, or a sinonasal tumor.

Methods

Sixty‐four patients with CRS undergoing functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) were randomized to either 15‐degree RTP (experimental arm) or HP (control arm) from October 2011 to February 2012. Boezaart endoscopic field‐of‐view grading system was the primary outcome measure. Lund‐Mackay computed tomography (CT) score, total blood loss, blood loss per minute, mean arterial pressure, heart rate, anesthetic technique, and surgery time were also recorded.

Results

There was a significant difference in mean Boezaart scoring between RTP and HP: 1.66 vs 2.33 (P <. 001), with RTP producing a better endoscopic field of view. There was also a lower total blood loss and blood loss per minute with RTP (P =. 01, P =. 03). There was no significant difference in disease severity (P >. 05), time of surgery (P >. 05), or mean arterial pressure (P >. 05) between the 2 surgical positions.

Conclusion

The 15‐degree RTP improves the endoscopic field of view and reduces blood loss during FESS. We would therefore recommend its use.
In Search of Unity: Georg Simmel on Italian Cities as Works of Art
Authors: Podoksik Efraim
Published: November 2012

The article suggests that Simmel’s thought should be interpreted as a coherent series of continuous attempts to solve philosophically the dilemmas entailed in the German ideal of Bildung. By analysing Simmel’s three short essays on Italian cities, and by placing them in the context of both his own intellectual development and the intellectual context of his time, the article will show how ideas expressed in these essays reflect this basic character of Simmel’s thought. In other words, far from being independent momentary images, Simmel’s essays on Italian cities reflect his concern with whether and how culture in general, and works of art in particular, may help modern personality reconcile itself with the world.
People-based versus place-based policies: The 2009 World Development Report
Authors: Turok Ivan
Published: November 2012

The World Development Report ‘Reshaping Economic Geography’ is a bold attempt to set the agenda for spatial economic policy throughout the world. It promises governments a way to tackle uneven development by combining the pursuit of socio-spatial equality with stronger economic growth. This involves increasing density, reducing distance and lowering divisions. The framework is neat and internally consistent, but reducing the complexity of spatial development to a few simple distinctions results in serious omissions and shortcomings. First, the social, environmental and political effects of rapid urbanisation are neglected. Second, the role of local and regional institutions is ignored because of the focus on national institutions. Third, there is undue faith in the ability of trade and market forces to reduce spatial inequalities and a lack of faith in the capabilities of the state to stimulate development.
The Feasibility of Randomized Controlled Trials for Early Arthritis Therapies (EARTH) Involving Acute Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear Cohorts
Authors: Chu Constance R. , Beynnon Bruce D. , Dragoo Jason L. , Fleisig Glenn S. , Hart Joseph M. , Khazzam Michael , Marberry Kevin M. , Nelson Bradley J. ,   the EARTH Group, Diamond Kimberly , Lynch Andrew , Cain E. Lyle , Carroll Jack , Dugas Jeffrey R. , Hagan Celia , Burick-Hughes Marjorie , Hurst Candice , Muench Carter W. , Ortega Jose O. , Ray Tracy R. , Irrgang James J.
Published: November 2012

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of disability for which disease-modifying treatments are lacking. Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear provides opportunities to study potential interventions from the initiation of heightened OA risk at the time of injury. This institutional review board (IRB)–approved prospective cross-sectional study (level of evidence: 2) was performed to test the hypothesis that adequate sample sizes of ACL-injured subjects to support randomized controlled trials (RCT) of early intervention strategies can be achieved. A total of 307 ACL-injured patients were entered into the database from 3-month collection periods at 7 clinical sites, with 65 subjects aged 18 to 30 years passing the inclusion/exclusion criteria. From sites that were IRB approved to ask, 89 of 96 (93%) subjects were willing to participate in an RCT. Extrapolating the 3-month data to a 1-year recruitment period would potentially yield 242 subjects aged 18 to 30 years willing to undergo randomization. This study shows that adequate sample sizes to perform RCT of early intervention strategies in ACL-injured cohorts comprising healthy young adults ages 18 to and 30 without prior joint injuries can be achieved within 1 to 2 years through recruitment at 5 to 7 orthopaedic sports medicine practices. Continued development of ACL-tear cohorts will provide the clinical base to critically evaluate new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that can help transform clinical care of OA from palliation to prevention.
Chinese Older Adults’ Internet Use for Health Information
Authors: Wong Carmen K. M. , Yeung Dannii Y. , Ho Henry C. Y. , Tse Kin-Po , Lam Chun-Yiu
Published: November 2012

Technological advancement benefits Internet users with the convenience of social connection and information search. This study aimed at investigating the predictors of Internet use to search for online health information among Chinese older adults. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was applied to examine the predictiveness of perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and attitudes toward Internet use on behavioral intention to search for health information online. Ninety-eight Chinese older adults were recruited from an academic institute for older people and community centers. Frequency of Internet use and physical and psychological health were also assessed. Results showed that perceived ease of use and attitudes significantly predicted behavioral intention of Internet use. The potential influences of traditional Chinese values and beliefs in health were also discussed.
Protective effects of Ankaferd blood stopper on aspirin-induced oxidative mucosal damage in a rat model of gastric injury
Authors: Hasgul Rukiye , Uysal Sema , Haltas Hacer , Akyol Sumeyye , Yuksel Yasemin , Gurel Ayse , Armutcu Ferah
Published: November 2012

The exposure of gastric mucosa to damaging factors, such as ethanol and some therapeutic drugs, produces pathological changes: inflammatory process, hemorrhagic erosions and even acute ulcers. Ankaferd blood stopper (ABS) comprises a standardized mixture of five different plant extracts. The purpose of our present investigations is to explain the participation of reactive oxygen species in acute gastric mucosal damage by acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and the effects of new hemostatic agent ABS. Experiments were carried out on 23 male Wistar rats. To assess gastric mucosal damage, biochemical and histopathological data were used. The colorimetric assays were used to determine the malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The level of myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, the level of nitric oxide (NO) and the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. We demonstrated that the biological effects of ROS were estimated by measuring the tissue and plasma levels of MDA, the products of lipid peroxidation, as well as the activity of SOD and the scavenger of ROS produced by ASA in the experiment group. Moreover, it was found that MPO activity as well as NO and TNF-α levels also demonstrated significant improvement by ABS treatment. The pathogenesis of experimental ASA-induced mucosal damage in rat stomach includes the generation of ROS that seems to play an important role, due to the generation of lipid peroxides, accompanied by the impairment of antioxidative enzyme activity of cells. ABS appeared to attenuate the oxidative and inflammatory changes caused by ASA-induced gastric mucosal damage in rats.
All in Time
Authors: Mullaney Jamie L.
Published: November 2012

Drawing on forty-seven ethnographic interviews, this article explores how “straight-edgers” (sXers)—participants in the hardcore music scene who abstain from alcohol, cigarettes, drugs, and promiscuous sex—construct and evaluate authenticity. While research on music subcultures documents how authenticity hinges on factors such as gender and race and how it may change over time, sXers place special importance on age, in particular, the legal drinking age of twenty-one. Interviews reveal that, depending on their distance from the legal drinking age, sXers differentially construct authenticity by relying on their selective use of the past, present, and future. Rather than simply serving as one more dimension of authenticity, however, the issue of age and the debates surrounding it serve as an entry point to understanding the temporality of authenticity.
Social representations of climate change in Swedish lay focus groups: Local or distant, gradual or catastrophic?
Authors: Wibeck Victoria
Published: November 2012

This paper explores social representations of climate change, investigating how climate change is discussed by Swedish laypeople interacting in focus group interviews. The analysis focuses on prototypical examples and metaphors, which were key devices for objectifying climate change representations. The paper analyzes how the interaction of focus group participants with other speakers, ideas, arguments, and broader social representations shaped their representations of climate change. Climate change was understood as a global but distant issue with severe consequences. There was a dynamic tension between representations of climate change as a gradual vs. unpredictable process. Implications for climate change communication are discussed.
Radio frequency patch antenna reconfiguration with Ni–Ti shape memory alloy switches
Authors: Wolcott Paul J , Wang Zheyu , Zhang Lanlin , Dapino Marcelo J
Published: November 2012

Nickel–titanium shape memory alloys are employed to develop a multiband radio frequency antenna. Switches made from Ni–Ti electronically connect together a planar patch antenna arrangement, creating several electrical signal pathways that enable reconfiguration via resonance shifting. The changes in the antenna geometry, induced by the switches, create different working frequencies. The switches open and close due to an induced phase change from martensite to austenite via resistive heating from a separate electric circuit. A patch antenna was fabricated and then measured for S11 reflection coefficient, antenna gain, and radiation pattern at different configurations. The results show that the working frequency of the patch antenna arrangement is tunable from 2.25 to 2.43 GHz depending on the antenna geometry, while the antenna always maintains a high gain. The experimental results match well with simulations, indicating the potential for simulated design of future applications and geometries through shape memory actuators.
Integrated controller-observer system for marine surface vessels
Authors: Chalhoub Nabil G , Khaled Nassim
Published: November 2012

A robust nonlinear controller has been designed to control the surge speed and the heading angle of a marine surface vessel. The control actions are carried out through the propeller and the rudder. Moreover, a nonlinear observer has been devised to accurately estimate the surge speed and the yaw angle and their time derivatives. Both the controller and the observer are designed based on a reduced-order model of the ship. However, their performances have been assessed on a six degree-of-freedom ship model, which accounts for the wave excitation, retardation forces, nonlinear restoring forces, wind and sea-current resistive loads. Furthermore, the model accounts for the physical limitations of both the rudder and the ship propulsion system. The simulation results demonstrate the capability of the integrated controller-observer system in providing a good tracking characteristic of the ship in spite of significant modeling imprecision and environmental disturbances.
A method for modeling three-dimensional flexible mechanisms based on an equivalent rigid-link system
Authors: Vidoni Renato , Gasparetto Alessandro , Giovagnoni Marco
Published: November 2012

Accurate modeling of flexible mechanisms is an open research topic, and different models have been presented since the 1970s. In this work, a novel approach for modeling of three-dimensional flexible mechanisms is presented, based on an equivalent rigid-link system, with respect to which elastic deformations are defined and computed. Concepts of three-dimensional kinematics are used in order to define an effective relationship between the rigid body and the elastic motion. The model is based on a compact kinematic formulation and, for a specific mechanism, there is no need for customizing the formulation. By using the principle of virtual work, a coupled dynamic formulation is found. A crucial advantage of this method is that it is not necessary to explicitly formulate the compatibility equations expressing the link connections, since they are included in the matrices of the system dynamics. The model was applied to a specific three-dimensional flexible mechanism. The results, compared with the Adams-Flex™ software, show a good agreement, thus proving the effectiveness of the methodology.
Data interpolation method based on the wave superposition algorithm
Authors: Wang Ran , Chen Jin , Dong Guangming
Published: November 2012

Fast Fourier transform-based near-field acoustic holography requires that the acoustic field should be sampled with a uniform spacing which is less than a half wave length of the highest frequency of interest to avoid spatial aliasing. Therefore, a large number of microphones are demanded for high frequencies. To overcome this difficulty and enhance the reconstruction accuracy, a data interpolation method based on the wave superposition algorithm (WSA) is proposed. At first, WSA is employed to regenerate the acoustic pressures between the measurement points. Then, the accuracy of the regenerated data is improved through an iterative process. In the end, taking the interpolated pressures as input data, the acoustic field can be reconstructed precisely with relatively few measurements. To solve the inherent ill-posed problem, Tikhonov regularization method together with generalized cross validation parameter choice method is utilized in the data interpolation method. Numerical simulation and experimental results demonstrate that this method can enhance the reconstruction accuracy and efficiency.
Keeping Warm in a Changing Place
Authors: Shin Jung-hye
Published: November 2012

This study examines the Korean ondol, the major residential heating method in Korea, and its related house features, particularly the rich symbolic meanings and associated lifestyles. By doing so, this study strives to understand the social aspects of Korean life that are embedded in the structure of Korean residential buildings. The study collected data from (a) scholarly articles on the ondol, (b) popular media, and (c) 30 interviews with elderly Koreans. Qualitative content analysis of these data reveals several contested meanings associated with the Korean ondol: thermal contrast, social dynamics, incubation, practice of everyday life, rootedness, healing/well-being, ethnic identity, modernization, and labor. While the narratives from the interviewees were firmly anchored in real-life situations, the narratives of popular media and scholarly articles showed departures from everyday experiences when discussing the ondol, often romanticizing and associating this building feature with Korean ethnic identity.
Adolescent suicide in Australia: Rates, risk and resilience
Authors: McNamara Patricia M
Published: November 2012

Adolescent suicide rates in Australia have fallen significantly during recent years. The incidence, however, clearly remains a serious concern for young people, parents, professionals and policy makers. Some groups of Australian youth appear to be at heightened risk. Adolescents within the welfare system, indigenous, rural and refugee youth, along with same sex attracted young people often need very careful monitoring and support. Young men continue to take their lives more frequently than young women. Prevention programmes in Australia aim to develop resilience in young people, families and communities that can serve as protection against self harm and suicide. The improvement of mental health literacy, a fostering of adolescent self-efficacy and better access to early intervention strategies are currently privileged in national and state policies related to young people in Australia. More work is needed, however, to achieve a well integrated mental health framework capable of effectively addressing adolescent suicide prevention into the twenty-first century.
The trauma still goes on…: The multigenerational legacy of Northern Ireland’s conflict
Authors: Downes Ciara , Harrison Elaine , Curran David , Kavanagh Michele
Published: November 2012

Numerous studies have been conducted internationally on the subject of multigenerational trauma; however, little is currently known about its existence in the context of the Northern Ireland conflict. The present study explored the outcomes of and mechanisms through which the trauma of one generation impacts on subsequent generations in this context. Using an Interpretative Phenomenological Approach (IPA), this study examined the subjective experiences, beliefs and perceptions of four mothers from Northern Ireland, all of whom had endured trauma during their childhoods. Three main master themes emerged: 1. “Attempting to cope” addressed how the trauma was dealt with, and how these efforts can be the very mechanisms through which multigenerational trauma occurs. Examples include hiding the truth, seeing the truth as dangerous, and knowing and not knowing about the trauma; 2. “The trauma still goes on” highlighted the negative outcomes and consequences of the traumatic experiences within the family such as delayed impact, symptoms and anger; and 3. “Strength through adversity” included the more positive outcomes of their experiences, such as finding meaning through suffering and making efforts to stop the cycle. The results are discussed in terms of the existing theories on multigenerational trauma, and implications for practice are explored.
Experimental verification of theoretical prediction of fiber to fiber contacts in electrospun multilayer nano-microfibrous assemblies: Effect of fiber diameter and network porosity
Authors: Bagherzadeh Roohollah , Latifi Masoud , Najar Saeed Shaikhzadeh , Kong Lingxue
Published: November 2012

Average number of fiber-to-fiber contacts in a fibrous structure is a prerequisite to investigate the mechanical, optical and transport properties of stochastic nano-microfibrous networks. In this research work, based on theoretical analysis presented for the estimation of the number of contacts between fibers in electrospun random multilayer nanofibrous assembles, experimental verification for theoretical dependence of fiber diameter and network porosity on the fiber to fiber contacts has been provided. The analytical model formulated is compared with the existing theories to predict the average number of fiber contacts of nanofiber structures. The effect of fiber diameters and network porosities on average number of fiber contacts of nano-microfiber mats has been investigated. A comparison is also made between the experimental and theoretical number of inter-fiber contacts of multilayer electrospun random nano-microfibrous networks. It has been found that both the fiber diameter and the network porosity have significant effects on the properties of fiber-to-fiber contacts.
The application of Cd Se/ZnS quantum dots and confocal laser scanning microscopy for three-dimensional imaging of nanofibrous structures
Authors: Bagherzadeh Roohollah , Latifi Masoud , Najar Saeed Shaikhzadeh , Tehran Mohammad Amani , Kong Lingxue
Published: November 2012

This paper reports a fast, accurate, and non-destructive three-dimensional imaging approach based on using quantum dots and confocal laser scanning microscopy to get three-dimensional images of internal pore structure of the nanofibrous materials. A practical method of making the fiber fluorescent using quantum dots was applied before three-dimensional imaging by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Fibrous scaffolds with different porosity parameters produced by electrospinning and their three-dimensional pore structure was evaluated by this approach. Furthermore, the introduced approach can be used to measure the pore interconnectivity of the scaffold.
Evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms related to uncomplicated benign prostatic hyperplasia in Italy: updated summary from AURO.it
Authors: Spatafora Sebastiano , Casarico Antonio , Fandella Andrea , Galetti Caterina , Hurle Rodolfo , Mazzini Elisa , Niro Ciro , Perachino Massimo , Sanseverino Roberto , Pappagallo Giovanni Luigi ,   for the AURO.it BPH Guidelines Committee
Published: November 2012

Background:

The first Italian national guidelines were developed by the Italian Association of Urologists and published in 2007. Since then, a number of new drugs or classes of drugs have emerged for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) related to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), new data have emerged on medical therapy (monotherapies and combination therapies), new surgical techniques have come into practice, and our understanding of disease pathogenesis has increased. Consequently, a new update of the guidelines has become necessary.

Methods:

A structured literature review was conducted to identify relevant papers published between 1 August 2006 and 12 December 2010. Publications before or after this timeframe were considered only if they were recognised as important milestones in the field or if the literature search did not identify publications within this timeframe. The quality of evidence and strength of recommendations were determined according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation framework.

Main findings:

Decisions on therapeutic intervention should be based on the impact of symptoms on quality of life (QoL) rather than the severity of symptoms (International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) score). A threshold for intervention was therefore based on the IPSS Q8, with intervention recommended for patients with a score of at least 4. Several differences in clinical recommendations have emerged. For example, combination therapy with a 5α-reductase inhibitor plus α blocker is now the recommended option for the treatment of patients at risk of BPH progression. Other differences include the warning of potential worsening of cognitive disturbances with use of anticholinergics in older patients, the distinction between Serenoa repens preparations (according to the method of extraction), and the clearly defined threshold of prostate size for performing open surgery (>80 g). While the recommendations included in these guidelines are evidence based, clinical decisions should also be informed by patients’ clinical and physical circumstances, as well as patients’ preferences and actions.

Conclusions:

These guidelines are intended to assist physicians and patients in the decision-making process regarding the management of LUTS/BPH, and support the process of continuous improvement of the quality of care and services to patients.
Divergent effects of supraphysiologic Notch signals on leukemia stem cells and hematopoietic stem cells
Authors: Chiang Mark Y. , Shestova Olga , Xu Lanwei , Aster Jon C. , Pear Warren S.
Published: November 2012

Key Points

Supraphysiologic Notch signals that maintain T-ALL self-renewal promote HSC differentiation at the expense of HSC self-renewal.
Nondifferentiable mathematical programming involving "Equation missing" -invexity
Authors: Yuan Dehui , Liu Xiaoling , Yang Shengyun , Lai Guoming
Published: November 2012

In this paper, we define new vector generalized convexity, namely nondifferentiable vector

(

G
f

,

β
f

)

-invexity, for a given locally Lipschitz vector function f. Basing on this new nondifferentiable vector generalized invexity, we have managed to deal with nondifferentiable nonlinear programming problems under some assumptions. Firstly, we present G-Karush-Kuhn-Tucker necessary optimality conditions for nonsmooth mathematical programming problems. With the new vector generalized invexity assumption, we also obtain G-Karush-Kuhn-Tucker sufficient optimality conditions for the same programming problems. Moreover, we establish duality results for this kind of multiobjective programming problems. In the end, a suitable example illustrates that the new optimality results are more useful for some class of optimization problems than the optimality conditions with invex functions.

MSC:90C26.
Combining proteomics and transcriptome sequencing to identify active plant-cell-wall-degrading enzymes in a leaf beetle
Authors: Kirsch Roy , Wielsch Natalie , Vogel Heiko , Svatoš Aleš , Heckel David G , Pauchet Yannick
Published: November 2012

Background

The primary plant cell wall is a complex mixture of polysaccharides and proteins encasing living plant cells. Among these polysaccharides, cellulose is the most abundant and useful biopolymer present on earth. These polysaccharides also represent a rich source of energy for organisms which have evolved the ability to degrade them. A growing body of evidence suggests that phytophagous beetles, mainly species from the superfamilies Chrysomeloidea and Curculionoidea, possess endogenous genes encoding complex and diverse families of so-called plant cell wall degrading enzymes (PCWDEs). The presence of these genes in phytophagous beetles may have been a key element in their success as herbivores. Here, we combined a proteomics approach and transcriptome sequencing to identify PCWDEs present in larval gut contents of the mustard leaf beetle, Phaedon cochleariae.

Results

Using a two-dimensional proteomics approach, we recovered 11 protein bands, isolated using activity assays targeting cellulose-, pectin- and xylan-degrading enzymes. After mass spectrometry analyses, a total of 13 proteins putatively responsible for degrading plant cell wall polysaccharides were identified; these proteins belong to three glycoside hydrolase (GH) families: GH11 (xylanases), GH28 (polygalacturonases or pectinases), and GH45 (β-1,4-glucanases or cellulases). Additionally, highly stable and proteolysis-resistant host plant-derived proteins from various pathogenesis-related protein (PRs) families as well as polygalacturonase-inhibiting proteins (PGIPs) were also identified from the gut contents proteome. In parallel, transcriptome sequencing revealed the presence of at least 19 putative PCWDE transcripts encoded by the P. cochleariae genome. All of these were specifically expressed in the insect gut rather than the rest of the body, and in adults as well as larvae. The discrepancy observed in the number of putative PCWDEs between transcriptome and proteome analyses could be partially explained by differences in transcriptional level.

Conclusions

Combining proteome and transcriptome sequencing analyses proved to be a powerful tool for the discovery of active PCWDEs in a non-model species. Our data represent the starting point of an in-depth functional and evolutionary characterization of PCWDE gene families in phytophagous beetles and their contribution to the adaptation of these highly successful herbivores to their host plants.
Novel olanzapine analogues presenting a reduced H1 receptor affinity and retained 5HT2A/D2 binding affinity ratio
Authors: Jafari Somayeh , Bouillon Marc E , Huang Xu-Feng , Pyne Stephen G , Fernandez-Enright Francesca
Published: November 2012

Background

Olanzapine is an atypical antipsychotic drug with high clinical efficacy, but which can cause severe weight gain and metabolic disorders in treated patients. Blockade of the histamine 1 (H1) receptors is believed to play a crucial role in olanzapine induced weight gain, whereas the therapeutic effects of this drug are mainly attributed to its favourable serotoninergic 2A and dopamine 2 (5HT2A/D2) receptor binding affinity ratios.

Results

We have synthesized novel olanzapine analogues8aand8btogether with the already known derivative8cand we have examined their respectivein vitroaffinities for the 5HT2A, D2, and H1receptors.

Conclusions

We suggest that thienobenzodiazepines8band8cwith lower binding affinity for the H1receptors, but similar 5HT2A/D2receptor binding affinity ratios to those of olanzapine. These compounds may offer a better pharmacological profile than olanzapine for treating patients with schizophrenia.
Beneficial ‘unintended effects’ of a cereal cystatin in transgenic lines of potato, Solanum tuberosum
Authors: Munger Aurélie , Coenen Karine , Cantin Line , Goulet Charles , Vaillancourt Louis-Philippe , Goulet Marie-Claire , Tweddell Russell , Sainsbury Frank , Michaud Dominique
Published: November 2012

Background

Studies reported unintended pleiotropic effects for a number of pesticidal proteins ectopically expressed in transgenic crops, but the nature and significance of such effects in planta remain poorly understood. Here we assessed the effects of corn cystatin II (CCII), a potent inhibitor of C1A cysteine (Cys) proteases considered for insect and pathogen control, on the leaf proteome and pathogen resistance status of potato lines constitutively expressing this protein.

Results

The leaf proteome of lines accumulating CCII at different levels was resolved by 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis and compared with the leaf proteome of a control (parental) line. Out of ca. 700 proteins monitored on 2-D gels, 23 were significantly up- or downregulated in CCII-expressing leaves, including 14 proteins detected de novo or up-regulated by more than five-fold compared to the control. Most up-regulated proteins were abiotic or biotic stress-responsive proteins, including different secretory peroxidases, wound inducible protease inhibitors and pathogenesis-related proteins. Accordingly, infection of leaf tissues by the fungal necrotroph Botryris cinerea was prevented in CCII-expressing plants, despite a null impact of CCII on growth of this pathogen and the absence of extracellular Cys protease targets for the inhibitor.

Conclusions

These data point to the onset of pleiotropic effects altering the leaf proteome in transgenic plants expressing recombinant protease inhibitors. They also show the potential of these proteins as ectopic modulators of stress responses in planta, useful to engineer biotic or abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants of economic significance.
Evaluation of adult dTPaP vaccination coverage in France: experience in Lyon city, 2010–2011
Authors: Baratin Dominique , Del Signore Corinne , Thierry Jacques , Caulin Evelyne , Vanhems Philippe
Published: November 2012

Background

Compliance with official recommendations can be assessed by evaluating vaccination coverage (VC) in populations. The main objective of our study was to assess VC of adults against diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis and pertussis (dTPaP) according to age. The second objective was to explore if vaccination status could be confirmed by documentation.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 680 adults consulting for biological examination in private laboratories in Lyon (France) to evaluate VC for diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis and pertussis (dTPaP) and enabled reported vaccinations to be compared with documented, confirmed vaccinations.

Results

Verification of documented, confirmed vaccinations disclosed VC of 78.7% for tetanus, 63.6% for poliomyelitis, 57.8% for diphtheria and 10.7% for pertussis. Comparison of confirmed and self-reported vaccinations revealed that a large percentage of people who thought that they were vaccinated were not. VC significantly decreased with age for diphtheria and poliomyelitis and did not vary by gender. The VC rate for pertussis has increased since the 2008 recommendations were made.

Conclusions

The main thrust of this study was to compare reported and confirmed data. A significant percentage of people wrongly believed that they were up to date with their vaccination.
Investigation of the apoptotic way induced by digallic acid in human lymphoblastoid TK6 cells
Authors: Bhouri Wissem , Boubaker Jihed , Skandrani Ines , Ghedira Kamel , Chekir Ghedira Leila
Published: November 2012

Background

The digallic acid (DGA) purified from Pistacia lentiscus. L fruits was investigated for its antiproliferative and apoptotic activities on human lymphoblastoid TK6 cells.

Methods

We attempt to characterize the apoptotic pathway activated by DGA. Apoptosis was detected by DNA fragmentation, PARP cleavage and by evaluating caspase activities.

Results

The inhibition of lymphoblastoid cell proliferation was noted from 8.5 μg/ml of DGA. The induction of apoptosis was confirmed by DNA fragmentation and PARP cleavage. We have demonstrated that DGA induces apoptosis by activating the caspase-8 extrinsic pathway. Caspase-3 was also activated in a dose dependent manner.

Conclusion

In summary, DGA exhibited an apoptosis inductor effect in TK6 cells revealing thus its potential as a cancer-preventive agent.
Primary pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma: an analysis of 21 cases
Authors: Xi Jun-jie , Jiang Wei , Lu Shao-hua , Zhang Chun-yan , Fan Hong , Wang Qun
Published: November 2012

Background

The optimal treatment for pulmonary mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC), a rare type of tumor, has not been established yet. This study analyzed the survival of pulmonary MEC patients and attempted to find clues for optimal treatment.

Methods

A total of 21 patients with pulmonary MEC from November 2004 to January 2011 were included in the investigation. Immunohistochemistry, epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation, and survival were retrospectively studied.

Results

Among the 21 pulmonary MEC patients, 17 were diagnosed with low-grade malignancy and 4 with high-grade malignancy through pathological examination. The prognosis was found to be poor in the presence of lymph nodes. The expression rates of EGFR and HER2 were 28.6% and 0%, respectively, which correlated with neither grade nor prognosis. The mutation rate of EGFR was 0. Log-rank test results indicated that age, grade, lymph node metastasis, and tumor-node-metastasis stage were prognostic factors.

Conclusion

Age, grade, lymph node metastasis and tumor-node-metastasis stage correlate with the survival of pulmonary MEC patients.

Trial registration

This study was approved and registered by the Ethics Committee of Zhongshan Hospital. Written informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to treatment.
Analysis of protein expression profiles in the thymus of chickens infected with Marek’s disease virus
Authors: Hu Xuming , Qin Aijian , Qian Kun , Shao Hongxia , Yu Chuan , Xu Wencai , Miao Ji
Published: November 2012

Background

Marek’s disease virus (MDV) is a highly cell-associated oncogenic α-herpesvirus that causes a disease characterised by T-cell lymphomas. The pathogenesis, or the nature of the interaction of the virus and the host, in the thymus are still unclear.

Results

In this study, we identified 119 differentially expressed proteins using two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry from the thymuses of chickens infected with the RB1B strain of MDV. These differentially expressed proteins were found mainly at 21, 28 and 35 days post-infection. More than 20 of the differentially expressed proteins were directly associated with immunity, apoptosis, tumour development and viral infection and replication. Five of these proteins, ANXA1, MIF, NPM1, OP18 and VIM, were further confirmed using real-time PCR. The functional associations and roles in oncogenesis of these proteins are discussed.

Conclusions

This work provides a proteomic profiling of host responses to MDV in the thymus of chickens and further characterises proteins related to the mechanisms of MDV oncogenesis and pathogenesis.
Transfer of manualized CBT for social phobia into clinical practice (SOPHO-PRAX): a study protocol for a cluster-randomized controlled trial
Authors: Crawcour Stephen , Leibing Eric , Ginzburg Denise , Stangier Ulrich , Wiltink Jörg , Hoyer Jürgen
Published: November 2012

Background

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is generally known to be efficacious in the treatment of social phobia when applied in RCTs, namely when the treatment manual is based on the Clark-Wells approach. However, little is known about the efficacy of manualized treatments in routine clinical practice (Phase IV of psychotherapy research). The present study (SOPHO-PRAX) is a continuation of a large multicenter randomized clinical trial (SOPHO-NET) and analyzes the extent to which additional training practitioners in manualized procedures enhances treatment effect.

Methods/design

Thirty-six private practitioners will be included in three treatment centers and randomly designated to either training in manualized CBT or no specific training. The treatment effects of the therapies conducted by both groups of therapists will be compared. A total of 162 patients (n = 116 completers; n = 58 per condition) will be enrolled. Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS) will serve as primary outcome measure. Remission from social phobia is defined as LSAS total ≤30 points. Data will be collected at treatment begin, after 8, 15, and 25 sessions (50 min each), at treatment completion, as well at 6 and 12 months post-treatment.

Discussion

The present CBT trial combines elements of randomized controlled trials and naturalistic studies in an innovative way. It will directly inform about the incremental effects of procedures established in a controlled trial into clinical practice. Study results are relevant to healthcare decisions and policy. They may serve to improve quality of treatment, and shorten the time frame between the development and widespread dissemination of effective methods, thereby reducing health cost expenditure.

The results of this study will not only inform about the degree to which the new methods lead to an improvement of treatment course and outcome, but also about whether the effects of routine psychotherapeutic treatment are comparable to those of the controlled, strictly manualized treatments of the SOPHO-NET study.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01388231. This study was funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (SOPHO-NET: BMBF 01GV0607; SOPHO-PRAX: BMBF 01GV1001).