bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does sponsorship improve outcomes above Alcoholics Anonymous attendance? A latent class growth curve analysis
Authors: Witbrodt Jane , Kaskutas Lee , Bond Jason , Delucchi Kevin
Published: July 2011

Aims  To construct Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) attendance, sponsorship and abstinence latent class trajectories to test the added benefit of having a sponsor above the benefits of attendance in predicting abstinence over time.

Design  Prospective with 1‐, 3‐, 5‐ and 7‐year follow‐ups.

Setting and participants  Alcoholic‐dependent individuals from two probability samples, one from representative public and private treatment programs and another from the general population (n = 495).

Findings  Individuals in the low attendance class (four classes identified) were less likely than those in the high, descending and medium attendance classes to be in high (versus low) abstinence class (three classes identified). No differences were found between the other attendance classes as related to abstinence class membership. Overall, being in the high sponsor class (three classes identified) predicted better abstinence outcomes than being in either of two other classes (descending and low), independent of attendance class effects. Although declining sponsor involvement was associated with greater likelihood of high abstinence than low sponsor involvement, being in the descending sponsor class also increased the odds of being in the descending abstinence class.

Conclusions  Any pattern of Alcoholics Anonymous attendance, even if it declines or is never high for a particular 12‐month period, is better than little or no attendance in terms of abstinence. Greater initial attendance carries added value. There is a benefit for maintaining a sponsor over time above that found for attendance.
Temporal variations in early gut microbial colonization are associated with allergen‐specific immunoglobulin E but not atopic eczema at 2 years of age
Authors: Storrø O. , Øien T. , Langsrud Ø. , Rudi K. , Dotterud C. , Johnsen R.
Published: July 2011

Background Intestinal microbiota undergoes substantial development during the first 2 years of life, important for intestinal immunologic development and maturation influencing systemic immune responses.

Objective We aimed to investigate, using a prospective study design, whether allergen‐specific IgE (sIgE) and atopic eczema are associated with variations in gut microbial colonization patterns in an unselected population during the first 2 years of life.

Methods Faeces from 94 infants were repeatedly sampled from 10 days, 4 months, 1 and 2 years postnatal and analysed for 12 different bacterial species by quantitative real‐time PCR. Venous blood samples from the infants were collected at 2 years of age and were analysed for sIgE for 12 specific allergens. The temporal gut colonization patterns for 42 sIgE‐positive (sIgE⩾0.35 kU/L) and 52 sIgE‐negative children (sIgE<0.1 kU/L) were then compared. The association between colonization pattern and phenotype as atopic eczema according to UK Working Party (UKWP) criteria were also described.

Results Subjects with atopic sensitization had lower levels of Escherichia coli at 4 months and 1 year, higher levels of Bifidobacterium longum at 1 year and lower levels of Bacteroides fragilis at 2 years. For E. coli and B. longum, the differences were only transient and had disappeared by 2 years of age. For other species, there were no differences in colonization patterns, and we found no association between colonization pattern and atopic eczema.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance We found temporal and transient variations in gut microbial colonization patterns associated with differences in sIgE sensitization at 2 years of age. A full understanding of the principles and mechanisms that underlie intestinal microbial colonization and diversity and host–microbiota relationships will be pivotal for the development of therapeutic approaches that manipulate the intestinal microbiota to maintain human health. [Registration number: ISRCTN28090297]

Cite this as: O. Storrø, T. Øien, Ø. Langsrud, K. Rudi, C. Dotterud and R. Johnsen, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 1545–1554.
Nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels in plasma and tissue of psoriasis patients
Authors: Şikar Aktürk A. , Özdoğan H.K. , Bayramgürler D. , Çekmen M.B. , Bilen N. , Kıran R.
Published: July 2011

Background  The pathogenesis of psoriasis has not been known exactly yet. Recently, it has been suggested that increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) may play a part in the pathogenesis of various skin diseases, including psoriasis.

Objectives  In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of ROS in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.

Methods  A convenience sample of 23 patients with psoriasis and 23 healthy subjects consented to participate in the study. Plasma NO and MDA levels were measured in all participants. Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and tissue levels of MDA on lesional and non‐lesional skin regions of psoriasis patients were measured. In addition, the correlation between age, gender with plasma NO, plasma MDA and tissue MDA was assessed.

Results  Plasma levels of NO and MDA in psoriasis patients (135.8 μmol/L, 4.33 μmol/L, respectively) were statistically significantly higher than those in controls (33.6 μmol/L, 2.03 μmol/L, respectively). Tissue levels of MDA in lesional tissues (49.18 nmol/gr) were significantly higher than those in non‐lesional tissues (28.41 nmol/gr). A significant correlation was not found between the PASI and levels of NO and MDA. In addition, a significant negative correlation was found between the plasma NO levels and age.

Conclusion  NO and MDA levels are elevated in psoriasis patients, which may indicate that oxidative stress plays an important role in the aetiopathogenesis of psoriasis.
Gross colour pattern is used to distinguish between opponents during aggressive encounters in a Lake Malawi cichlid
Authors: Pauers Michael J. , Kapfer Joshua M. , Doehler Kirsten , Todd Lee J. , Berg Craig S.
Published: July 2011

Abstract –  The role of male colouration in the behavioural interactions of haplochromine cichlids has received much attention. Previous studies supported the role played by visual signals during interactions of rock‐dwelling cichlids, or mbuna, from Lake Malawi. It has largely been assumed that hue, and not pattern, is the primary signal encoded in male colouration; thus, the role of colour pattern has received less attention. We explored the use of visual signals during aggression in Labeotropheus fuelleborni by using identically and differently coloured opponents and by offering these opponents under coloured illumination. We presented two simultaneous opponents to males and found that the focal male’s responses depended upon opponent colour pattern; similarly patterned opponents received more aggression, even if presented under a hue‐obscuring light source. These results support findings that gross colour pattern may be more important than hue in interactions among the mbuna and further support an important role for visual communication in these fishes.
Hypermethylation of RUNX3 but not WIF1 gene and its association with stage and nodal status of tongue cancers
Authors: Supic G , Kozomara R , Jovic N , Zeljic K , Magic Z
Published: July 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 794–800

Objectives:  Recent studies indicate various molecular abnormalities in oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC), including DNA methylation of tumor‐associated genes. Although promoter hypermethylation of Wnt pathway antagonists RUNX3 (Runt‐related transcription factor 3) and Wnt inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1) has been identified as a common event in a number of carcinomas, methylation status and the role of RUNX3 as a possible tumor suppressor in oral and head and neck cancer are yet controversial. The aim of our study is to determine the occurrence of RUNX3 and WIF1 genes hypermethylation and correlation with tumor and host‐related factors and prognosis in tongue carcinomas.

Material and Methods:  In 76 patients with tongue carcinoma, RUNX3 and WIF1 genes promoter hypermethylation analysis was assessed by nested methylation‐specific PCR method.

Results:  Hypermethylation of WIF1 and RUNX3 genes promoters was observed in 35% and 25% of carcinomas, respectively. RUNX3 gene promoter hypermethylation was significantly associated with lymph node involvement (P = 0.013) and tumor stage (P = 0.006), but not with the overall survival. Occurrence of RUNX3 and WIF1 genes comethylation was associated with nodal status (P = 0.058) and tumor stage (P = 0.055).

Conclusions:  Our findings indicate that RUNX3 and WIF1 are frequently aberrantly methylated and that RUNX3 promoter methylation could be considered as a potential prognostic marker in tongue carcinoma.
RETRACTED - Ethics and Integrity in the Publishing Process: Myths, Facts, and a Roadmap
Authors: Schminke Marshall , Ambrose Maureen L.
Published: July 2011

Integrity provides the foundation for most scholarly endeavours, including research and publishing. Authors, reviewers, and editors share responsibility for creating and maintaining the system in which we conduct and publish our work. However, research and publishing are complicated processes. A single research effort may involve multiple authors, hundreds of participants, and a variety of skills and tools that play out over the course of months or even years. Ethical challenges may arise at any point along the way, so it is not surprising that both new and experienced scholars often struggle to understand and maintain the ethical standards expected of them. This article highlights some of the main challenges scholars face and provides initial guidance for seeking solutions. But most importantly, it sets the stage for this Special Editors' Forum on research and publishing ethics.
Identification and initial characterization of the 3′ end of gene transcripts encoding putative members of the pheromone receptor subfamily in Lepidoptera
Authors: Garczynski Stephen F. , Wanner Kevin W. , Unruh Thomas R.
Published: July 2011

Abstract  Semiochemicals, including pheromones and kairomones, used in pest management programs reduce the need for chemical insecticides, and understanding their interactions with their membrane receptors may help make them more effective in the field. Identification of odorant receptors in the Lepidoptera has mainly been achieved using bioinformatics to search DNA sequences generated by genome or expressed sequence tag (EST) sequencing projects. This study reports a rapid method to identify members of the pheromone receptor subfamily in Lepidoptera. Degenerate oligonucleotide primers were designed against a conserved amino acid sequence in the carboxyl terminus of known lepidopteran pheromone receptors, and the primers were used in a 3′ rapid amplification of complementary DNA (cDNA) ends procedure. Polymerase chain reaction products generated from seven different lepidopteran species were TA cloned and sequenced. The cDNA sequences of 25 transcripts were determined to encode potential members of the pheromone receptor subfamily. These cDNAs ranged from 238 to 642 bp and encoded 49–54 amino acids of the carboxyl terminus. Analysis of the 3′ untranslated region reveals that most of the transcripts contain multiple polyadenylation signal sequences, and in the case of Manduca sexta, an alternate polyadenylation signal appears to be used in transcript processing. The 3′ untranslated region was also useful in determining unique receptors encoded by transcripts having highly similar nucleotide and amino acid sequences. Overall, this technique provides a complementary method of pheromone receptor identification in EST sequencing projects, or can be used as a stand‐alone method in conjunction with 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends procedures.
A New Approach to Study and Compare the Annual Performance of Liquid and Solid Desiccant Cooling Systems
Authors: Nia Fatemeh Esfandiari , Phelan Patrick E. , van Paassen Dolf
Published: July 2011

Desiccant cooling systems, considered one of the sustainable air conditioning technologies, have been attractive for researchers to be studied for many years. In this paper, the modeling and simulation of a packed tower liquid dehumidifier and regenerator as well as a solid desiccant wheel are presented. The simplified equations that predict the air conditions after passing these systems are developed. This approach is quick and does not need a lengthy computer calculation and large memory capacity. Liquid and solid desiccant cooling cycles are presented and using this approach, the performance of these systems is calculated for weather data of a reference year and different climates in the United States. These systems are compared regarding their energy and water consumption based on this new approach. The first results show that liquid desiccant systems, without technology improvements, are relatively large but with low capacities and have lower coefficients of performance than solid desiccant cooling systems.
Association between cancer and contact allergy: a linkage study
Authors: Engkilde Kaare , Thyssen Jacob P , Menné Torkil , Johansen Jeanne D
Published: July 2011

Background

Contact allergy is a prevalent disorder. It is estimated that about 20% of the general population are allergic to one or more of the chemicals that constitute the European baseline patch test panel. While many studies have investigated associations between type I allergic disorders and cancer, few have looked into the association between cancer and contact allergy, a type IV allergy. By linking two clinical databases, the authors investigate the possible association between contact allergy and cancer.

Methods

Record linkage of two different registers was performed: (1) a tertiary hospital register of dermatitis patients patch tested for contact allergy and (2) a nationwide cancer register (the Danish Cancer Register). After linking the two registers, only cancer subtypes with 40 or more patients registered were included in the analysis. The final associations were evaluated by logistic regression analysis.

Results

An inverse association between contact allergy and non-melanoma skin- and breast cancer, respectively, was identified in both sexes, and an inverse trend for brain cancer was found in women with contact allergy. Additionally, a positive association between contact allergy and bladder cancer was found.

Conclusion

The inverse associations support the immunosurveillance hypothesis (ie, individuals with an allergy are less likely to get cancer due to a triggered immune system), while the positive association with bladder cancer could be due to accumulations of chemical metabolites in the bladder. The authors' findings add to the limited knowledge about contact allergy and the risk of cancer.
P-008 Simulated diagnostic cerebral angiography in neurosurgical training: a pilot program
Authors: Spiotta A , Rasmussen P , Masaryk T , Benzel E , Schlenk R
Published: July 2011

Introduction

Surgical simulation provides a zero-risk setting in which skills can be obtained through repetition. Advanced, technically accurate simulation systems that provide sensory feedback can further aid the trainee in developing and refining the mechanical skills required for the procedure. We studied the feasibility and utility of simulated diagnostic cerebral angiography among neurosurgical residents and fellows using an endovascular biplane angiography simulator.

Methods

Ten neurosurgical residents and four neurointerventional fellows were recruited into a standardized training protocol consisting of a didactic, demonstration and hands-on learning environment. The Simbionix simulator (Simbionix USA Corp, Cleveland, Ohio, USA), was employed. Participants were instructed to catheterize (in order) the right internal carotid artery, left internal carotid artery and left vertebral artery. The task was repeated five times by the participants. Total procedure and fluoroscopy times were recorded in minutes and seconds. Volume of contrast administered and complications were also recorded. Violations of safe technique were recorded.

Results

All participants demonstrated improvement over the five trials. There were no dissections, however residents performed actions that were perceived as potentially dangerous. Fellows performed the procedure with superior technique. Residents performed the task with an initial total procedure and fluoroscopy time of 6.6±4.3 min and 4.9±3.7 min, respectively and improved on the fifth trial (3.4±1.3 min; p=0.03 and 2.3±0.78 min; p=0.004). Residents approximated the efficiency of fellows for the third and fourth trial.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated that incorporating an endovascular simulator is feasible for training purposes in a neurosurgical residency program and provided the first evidence that it could facilitate the transfer of skills obtained in real world angiography.

Abstract P-008 Figure 1
O-009 Mechanical balloon thromboembolectomy for the treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT): a restropsective analysis of safety and efficacy in 65 consecutive patients
Authors: Frei D , Huddle D , Bellon R , Dooley G
Published: July 2011

Objective

Conventional treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT) has been systemic heparinization. A variety of endovascular treatment paradigms have been described for the treatment of symptomatic CVST that has failed conventional therapy. We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of thromboembolectomy using the Fogarty balloon catheter (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, California, USA) for rapid revascularization of the major dural sinuses in consecutive patients over a 6-year period.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective review of our Neurointerventional database over a 6-year period from January 2005 to January 2011 identified 65 consecutive patients who had undergone Fogarty balloon thromboembolectomy for the treatment of CVT. These patients with documented CVT were deemed a “failure” of conventional management (neurologic decline, hemorrhage or infarction, clot progression or sinus re-occlusion). All procedures were performed with ultrasound guided venous access of the internal jugular vein and placement of a vascular sheath. Low dose thrombolytic (1–10 mg of Tenecteplase (Genentech, South San Francisco, California, USA)) was utilized to lace the clot through a four French multisidehole infusion catheter in all but two patients (97%). Balloon thromboembolectomy was performed using either a three French or four French Fogarty balloon catheter until satisfactory revascularization was achieved. All patients were maintained on intravenous heparin during the procedure and continued on anticoagulation afterward. Procedural images, pre- and post- procedure neuroimaging and charts were reviewed by two experienced Neurointerventional surgeons. Revascularization was recorded as unsuccessful, partial or complete. Partial revascularization showed contrast wash out in the appropriate dural sinus, but non-occlusive residual clot remained present. Procedural complications were recorded.

Results

Complete revascularization was achieved in 52 of 65 patients (80%). Partial revascularization was achieved in 13 of 65 patients (20%). There was one procedural complication (1.5%) (wire perforation with subdural hematoma), which resolved without neurosurgical intervention or neurological decline. The mean patient age was 36 years. 60% of patients were female. 10 patients required additional thromboembolectomy for sinus re-occlusion.

Conclusion

Fogarty balloon thromboembolectomy can be a safe and effective treatment for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in patients who have failed conventional management.
The role of adiponectin (ADIPOQ) gene polymorphisms in the susceptibility and prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Cui Enhai , Deng Anmei , Wang Xiang , Wang Bin , Mao Wei , Feng Xueren , Hua Feng
Published: July 2011

To study the role of the adiponectin (ADIPOQ) gene single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the susceptibility and prognosis for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we recruited 344 patients with NSCLC, of which 141 had undergone surgical resection and post-surgery follow up. For controls, there were 264 healthy volunteers for the control group, matched in age and sex with the NSCLC patients. Genotyping of SNPs in the ADIPOQ gene, namely, rs266729 (11365C>G); rs822395 (4034A>C); rs822396 (3964A>G); rs2241766 (+45T>G) were performed. Of all SNPs in the ADIPOQ gene, only the TT genotype and T allele frequency of the rs2241766 were more prevalent in NSCLC subjects than in controls. The TT genotype of rs2241766 was significantly associated with susceptibility to NSCLC before and after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, and smoking status. In the survival analyses of subjects receiving surgical resection, only the SNPs of rs2241766 were significantly related to overall survival of NSCLC. Our results suggest that the SNP rs2241766 of the ADIPOQ gene may determine both susceptibility to NSCLC, and the prognosis for those who underwent surgical treatment.
CALCULI, HODGE OPERATORS AND LAPLACIANS ON A QUANTUM HOPF FIBRATION
Authors: LANDI GIOVANNI , ZAMPINI ALESSANDRO
Published: July 2011

We describe Laplacian operators on the quantum group SUq(2) equipped with the four-dimensional bicovariant differential calculus of Woronowicz as well as on the quantum homogeneous space [Formula: see text] with the restricted left covariant three-dimensional differential calculus. This is done by giving a family of Hodge dualities on both the exterior algebras of SUq(2) and [Formula: see text]. We also study gauged Laplacian operators acting on sections of line bundles over the quantum sphere.
One-step synthesis of α/β cyano-aqua cobinamides from vitamin B12 with Zn(II) or Cu(II) salts in methanol
Authors: Zhou Kai , Zelder Felix
Published: July 2011

This short communication describes the screening of various metal salts for the preparation of cyano-aqua cobinamides from vitamin B12 in methanol. ZnCl2 and Cu(NO3)2·3H2O have been identified as most active for this purpose and represent useful alternatives to the widely applied Ce(III) method that requires excess cyanide.
Secretion of adipokines by human adipose tissue in vivo: partitioning between capillary and lymphatic transport
Authors: Miller Norman E. , Michel C. Charles , Nanjee M. Nazeem , Olszewski Waldemar L. , Miller Irina P. , Hazell Matthew , Olivecrona Gunilla , Sutton Pauline , Humphreys Sandy M. , Frayn Keith N.
Published: July 2011

Peptides secreted by adipose tissue (adipokines) may enter blood via capillaries or lymph. The relative importance of these pathways for a given adipokine might influence its biological effects. Because this has not been studied in any species, we measured the concentrations of seven adipokines and eight nonsecreted proteins in afferent peripheral lymph and venous plasma from 12 healthy men. Data for nonsecreted proteins were used to derive indices of microvascular permeability, which in conjunction with the molecular radii of the adipokines were used to estimate the amounts leaving the tissue via capillaries. Transport rates via lymph were estimated from the lymph adipokine concentrations and lymph flow rates and total transport (secretion) as the sum of this and capillary transport. Concentrations of nonsecreted proteins were always lower in lymph than in plasma. With the exception of adiponectin, adipokine concentrations were always higher in lymph ( P < 0.01). Leptin and MCP-1 were secreted at the highest rates (means: 43 μg/h or 2.7 nmol/h and 32 μg/h or 2.4 nmol/h, respectively). IL-6 and MCP-1 secretion rates varied greatly between subjects. The proportion of an adipokine transported via lymph was directly related to its molecular radius ( rs= +0.94, P = 0.025, n = 6), increasing from 14 to 100% as the radius increased from 1.18 (IL-8) to 3.24 nm (TNFα). We conclude that the lymph/capillary partitioning of adipokines is a function of molecular size, which may affect both their regional and systemic effects in vivo. This finding may have implications for the physiology of peptides secreted by other tissues.
FATP4 contributes as an enzyme to the basal and insulin-mediated fatty acid uptake of C2C12muscle cells
Authors: Digel Margarete , Staffer Simone , Ehehalt Friedrich , Stremmel Wolfgang , Ehehalt Robert , Füllekrug Joachim
Published: July 2011

The function of membrane proteins in long-chain fatty acid transport is controversial. The acyl-CoA synthetase fatty acid transport protein-4 (FATP4) has been suggested to facilitate fatty acid uptake indirectly by its enzymatic activity, or directly by transport across the plasma membrane. Here, we investigated the function of FATP4 in basal and insulin mediated fatty acid uptake in C2C12muscle cells, a model system relevant for fatty acid metabolism. Stable expression of exogenous FATP4 resulted in a twofold higher fatty acyl-CoA synthetase activity, and cellular uptake of oleate was enhanced similarly. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that FATP4 allowed the cells to reach apparent saturation of fatty acid uptake at a twofold higher level compared with control. Short-term treatment with insulin increased fatty acid uptake in line with previous reports. Surprisingly, insulin increased the acyl-CoA synthetase activity of C2C12cells within minutes. This effect was sensitive to inhibition of insulin signaling by wortmannin. Affinity purified FATP4 prepared from insulin-treated cells showed an enhanced enzyme activity, suggesting it constitutes a novel target of short-term metabolic regulation by insulin. This offers a new mechanistic explanation for the concomitantly observed enhanced fatty acid uptake. FATP4 was colocalized to the endoplasmic reticulum by double immunofluorescence and subcellular fractionation, clearly distinct from the plasma membrane. Importantly, neither differentiation into myotubes nor insulin treatment changed the localization of FATP4. We conclude that FATP4 functions by its intrinsic enzymatic activity. This is in line with the concept that intracellular metabolism plays a significant role in cellular fatty acid uptake.
Anterior prostate epithelial AR inactivation modifies estrogen receptor expression and increases estrogen sensitivity
Authors: Simanainen Ulla , McNamara Keely , Gao Yan Ru , McPherson Stephen , Desai Reena , Jimenez Mark , Handelsman David J.
Published: July 2011

Androgens influence prostate growth and development, so androgen withdrawal can control progression of prostate diseases. Although estrogen treatment was originally used to induce androgen withdrawal, more recently direct estrogen effects on the prostate have been recognized, but the nature of androgen-estrogen interactions within the prostate remain poorly understood. To characterize androgen effects on estrogen sensitivity in the mouse prostate, we contrasted models of castration-induced androgen withdrawal in the prostate stromal and epithelial compartments with a prostate epithelial androgen receptor (AR) knockout (PEARKO) mouse model of selective epithelial AR inactivation. Castration markedly increased prostate epithelial estrogen receptor (ER)α immunoreactivity compared with very low ERα expression in intact males. Similarly, strong basal and luminal ERα expression was detected in PEARKO prostate of intact males, suggesting that epithelial AR activity regulated epithelial ERα expression. ERβ was strongly expressed in intact, castrated, and PEARKO prostate. However, strong clusters of epithelial ERβ positivity coincided with epithelial stratification in PEARKO prostate. In vivo estrogen sensitivity was increased in PEARKO males, with greater estradiol-induced prostate growth and epithelial proliferation leading to squamous metaplasia, featuring markedly increased epithelial proliferation, thickening, and keratinization compared with littermate controls. Our results suggest that ERα expression in the prostate epithelial cells is regulated by local, epithelia-specific, androgen-dependent mechanisms, and this imbalance in the AR- and ER-mediated signaling sensitizes the mature prostate to exogenous estrogens.
Normal adaptations to exercise despite protection against oxidative stress
Authors: Higashida Kazuhiko , Kim Sang Hyun , Higuchi Mitsuru , Holloszy John O. , Han Dong-Ho
Published: July 2011

It has been reported that supplementation with the antioxidant vitamins C and E prevents the adaptive increases in mitochondrial biogenesis and GLUT4 expression induced by endurance exercise. We reevaluated the effects of these antioxidants on the adaptive responses of rat skeletal muscle to swimming in a short-term study consisting of 9 days of vitamins C and E with exercise during the last 3 days and a longer-term study consisting of 8 wk of antioxidant vitamins with exercise during the last 3 wk. The rats in the antioxidant groups were given 750 mg·kg body wt−1·day−1vitamin C and 150 mg·kg body wt−1·day−1vitamin E. In rats euthanized immediately after exercise, plasma TBARs were elevated in the control rats but not in the antioxidant-supplemented rats, providing evidence for an antioxidant effect. In rats euthanized 18 h after exercise there were large increases in insulin responsiveness of glucose transport in epitrochlearis muscles mediated by an approximately twofold increase in GLUT4 expression in both the short- and long-term treatment groups. The protein levels of a number of mitochondrial marker enzymes were also increased about twofold. Superoxide dismutases (SOD) 1 and 2 were increased about twofold in triceps muscle after 3 days of exercise, but only SOD2 was increased after 3 wk of exercise. There were no differences in the magnitudes of any of these adaptive responses between the control and antioxidant groups. These results show that very large doses of antioxidant vitamins do not prevent the exercise-induced adaptive responses of muscle mitochondria, GLUT4, and insulin action to exercise and have no effect on the level of these proteins in sedentary rats.
Remodelling of Membrane Rafts Expression in Lung Cells as an Early Sign of Mechanotransduction-Signalling in Pulmonary Edema
Authors: Palestini Paola , Botto Laura , Rivolta Ilaria , Miserocchi Giuseppe
Published: July 2011

Membrane rafts (MRs) are clusters of lipids, organized in a “quasicrystalline” liquid-order phase, organized on the cell surface and whose pattern of molecules and physicochemical properties are distinct from those of the surrounding plasma membrane. MRs may be considered an efficient and fairly rapid cell-activated mechanism to express or mask surface receptors aimed at triggering specific response pathways. This paper reports observations concerning the role of MRs in the control of lung extravascular water that ought to be kept at minimum to assure gas diffusion, supporting the hypothesis that MRs expression is a potential mechanism of sensing minor changes in the volume of extravascular water. We present the evidence that MRs expression specifically relates to signal-transduction processes evoked by mechanical stimuli arising in the interstitial lung compartment when a small increase in extravascular volume occurs. We further hypothesize that a differential expression of MRs might also reflect the damage to precise components of the extracellular matrix caused by the perturbation in water balance and thus can trigger a molecule-oriented specific matrix remodelling.
The Role of Erythropoietin and Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents in Tumor Progression
Authors: Hedley Benjamin D. , Allan Alison L. , Xenocostas Anargyros
Published: July 2011

Over the past few decades, understanding of the physiologic function of erythropoietin (EPO) has evolved significantly. EPO binds to erythropoietin receptors (EPOR), initiating signaling that stimulates growth, inhibits apoptosis, and induces the differentiation of erythroid progenitors to increase red blood cell mass. EPO has additionally been shown to exert tissue-protective effects on multiple tissues, suggesting a pleiotropic mechanism of action. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESA) are used clinically for treating cancer-related anemia [chemotherapy-induced anemia (CIA)]. Recent clinical trials have reported increased adverse events and/or reduced survival in ESA-treated cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, potentially related to EPO-induced cancer progression. Signaling pathways downstream of EPO/EPOR have been shown to influence numerous cellular functions in both normal and tumor cells, including proliferation, apoptosis, and drug resistance. Some studies have reported effects on proliferation, reduced chemotherapy efficacy, reduction of apoptosis, and resistance to selective therapies on cancer cell lines, whereas others have shown null effects. In addition, newer targeted cancer therapies that are directed toward specific signaling pathways may be antagonized by ESAs. This molecular interplay between anticancer agents and potential survival signals triggered by ESAs may have been underestimated and may contribute toward decreased survival seen in certain trials. As more targeted anticancer therapies become available, these types of interactions may mitigate therapeutic efficacy by allowing tumor cells to acquire drug resistance. Therefore, a more complete understanding of the complex pathways involved will allow for the rational use of ESAs for the safe treatment of CIA in oncology patients. Clin Cancer Res; 17(20); 6373–80. ©2011 AACR.
Human Monoclonal Antibody Fragments Binding to Insulin-like Growth Factors I and II with Picomolar Affinity
Authors: Zhao Qi , Feng Yang , Zhu Zhongyu , Dimitrov Dimiter S.
Published: July 2011

The type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) and its ligands (IGF-I and IGF-II) have been implicated in a variety of physiologic processes and in diseases such as cancer. In addition to IGF1R, IGF-II also activates the insulin receptor (IR) isoform A, and therefore, antibodies against IGF-II can inhibit cell proliferation mediated by the signaling through both IGF1R and IR triggered by IGF-II. We identified a new human monoclonal antibody (mAb), m708.2, which is bound to IGF-I and IGF-II but not to insulin. m708.2 potently inhibited signal transduction mediated by the interaction of IGF-I or IGF-II with the IGF1R and IGF-II with the IR. It also inhibited the growth of the breast cancer cell line MCF-7. An affinity-matured derivative of m708.2, m708.5, bound to IGF-I with equilibrium dissociation constant, KD = 200 pmol/L and to IGF-II with KD = 60 pmol/L. m708.5 inhibited signal transduction mediated by IGF-I and IGF-II and cancer cell growth more potently than m708.2. These results suggest that m708.5 could have potential as a candidate therapeutic for cancers driven by the IGF-I and IGF-II interactions with IGF1R and IR. Mol Cancer Ther; 10(9); 1677–85. ©2011 AACR.
Steroid-Induced Iatrogenic Glaucoma
Authors: Razeghinejad M. Reza , Katz L. Jay
Published: July 2011

Steroids in susceptible individuals can cause a clinical condition similar to primary open-angle glaucoma. Five percent of the population are high steroid responders and develop an intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation of more than 15 mm Hg above baseline. IOP elevation may occur as early as 1 day to as late as 12 weeks after intravitreal triamcinolone in 20–65% of patients. On average, 75% of eyes with steroid implants require IOP-lowering therapy at some point within 3 years of follow-up. The exact mechanism of steroid-induced glaucoma is not totally understood, but decreased trabecular meshwork outflow is regarded as the main cause of IOP elevation. High-risk patients who receive steroids should be monitored closely and if they develop elevated IOP, steroids with lower potency or steroid-sparing agents should be used. The IOP usually returns to normal within 2–4 weeks after stopping the steroid. About 1–5% of patients do not respond to medical therapy and need surgery. Trabeculectomy, trabeculotomy, shunt surgery, and cyclodestructive procedures are among the methods employed. Removal of residual sub-Tenon or intravitreal steroids may help hasten the resolution of the steroid response. Early results with anecortave acetate, an analog of cortisol acetate with antiangiogenic activity, in controlling IOP have been promising.
Guns for Hire
Authors: Franke Volker , von Boemcken Marc
Published: July 2011

Whereas the values, attitudes, and motivations of soldiers serving in their countries' armed forces have been widely studied, to date we know very little about the motivations and occupational self-perceptions of individuals working for the private security industry. Using data obtained through an online survey, this article explores the values and attitudes of more than 200 private contractors with law enforcement backgrounds and operational experience providing armed security services in conflict regions. Contrary to media-dominating images of ruthless, money-grabbing mercenaries, respondents in our sample displayed attitudes comparable to those of military professionals, adhering to high levels of professionalism and ethical conduct and motivated largely by altruistic factors.
Diabetic Neuropathy Status and the Concerns in Underserved Rural Communities: Challenges and Opportunities for Diabetes Educators
Authors: Wang Wen , Balamurugan Appathurai , Biddle Joyce , Rollins Kimberly M.
Published: July 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and to identify at risk populations in medically underserved rural communities.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 816 type 2 diabetic patients from 5 rural Arkansas counties who attended a diabetes education program from 2005 to 2009. The data was collected through a survey questionnaire and from medical records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted.

Results

Of the 816 patients studied, 9.6% had a DPN diagnosis, and 43% reported peripheral neuropathy symptoms (PNS). Among the patients with PNS, 79% had not been diagnosed with DPN. Multivariate analyses found that being female, being white, having less than a college education, having a longer duration of diabetes, having a history of smoking, having a professional foot examination, and performing self foot examinations are associated with a higher risk for having DPN or PNS.

Conclusion

The study found that the prevalence of patients with PNS was high, and that DPN was alarmingly underdiagnosed in these underserved rural communities. The high prevalence of PNS and underdiagnosis of DPN could influence the development of severe foot complications like diabetic foot ulcer, and even possibly increase the risk of lower extremity amputation in these underserved communities. The at risk population identified by this study would be a resource to help diabetes educators develop targeted education and intervention programs in underserved rural communities.
Constant Connectivity: Rethinking Interruptions at Work
Authors: Wajcman Judy , Rose Emily
Published: July 2011

While the subject of interruptions has received considerable attention among organizational researchers, the pervasive presence of information and communication technologies has not been adequately conceptualized. Here we consider the way knowledge workers interact with these technologies. We present fine-grained data that reveal the crucial role of mediated communication in the fragmentation of the working day. These mediated interactions, which are both frequent and short, have been commonly viewed as interruptions — as if the issue is the frequency of these single, isolated events. In contrast, we argue that knowledge workers inhabit an environment where communication technologies are ubiquitous, presenting simultaneous, multiple and ever-present calls on their attention. Such a framing employs a sociomaterial approach which reveals how contemporary knowledge work is itself a complex entanglement of social practices and the materiality of technical artefacts. Our findings show that employees engage in new work strategies as they negotiate the constant connectivity of communication media.
Personalized implant for high tibial opening wedge: Combination of solid freeform fabrication with combustion synthesis process
Authors: Zhim Fouad , Ayers Reed A , Moore John J , Moufarrège Richard , Yahia L’Hocine
Published: July 2011

In this work a new generation of bioceramic personalized implants were developed. This technique combines the processes of solid freeform fabrication (SFF) and combustion synthesis (CS) to create personalized bioceramic implants with tricalcium phosphate (TCP) and hydroxyapatite (HA). These porous bioceramics will be used to fill the tibial bone gap created by the opening wedge high tibial osteotomy (OWHTO). A freeform fabrication with three-dimensional printing (3DP) technique was used to fabricate a metallic mold with the same shape required to fill the gap in the opening wedge osteotomy. The mold was subsequently used in a CS process to fabricate the personalized ceramic implants with TCP and HA compositions. The mold geometry was designed on commercial 3D CAD software. The final personalized bioceramic implant was produced using a CS process. This technique was chosen because it exploits the exothermic reaction between P2O5 and CaO. Also, chemical composition and distribution of pores in the implant could be controlled. To determine the chemical composition, the microstructure, and the mechanical properties of the implant, cylindrical shapes were also fabricated using different fabrication parameters. Chemical composition was performed by X-ray diffraction. Pore size and pore interconnectivity was measured and analyzed using an electronic microscope system. Mechanical properties were determined by a mechanical testing system. The porous TCP and HA obtained have an open porous structure with an average 400 µm channel size. The mechanical behavior shows great stiffness and higher load to failure for both ceramics. Finally, this personalized ceramic implant facilitated the regeneration of new bone in the gap created by OWHTO and provides additional strength to allow accelerated rehabilitation.
In vitro biocompatibility of novel biphasic calcium phosphate-mullite composites
Authors: Nath Shekhar , Kalmodia Sushma , Basu Bikramjit
Published: July 2011

In designing new calcium phosphate (CaP)-based composites, the improvement in physical properties (strength, toughness) without compromising the biocompatibility aspect is essential. In a recent study, it has been demonstrated that significant improvement in compressive strength as well as modest enhancement in toughness is achievable in biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP)-based composites with mullite addition (up to 30 wt%). Herein, we report the results of the in vitro cell adhesion, cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and osteocalcin (OC) production for a series of BCP-mullite (up to 30 wt%) composites. Mouse fibroblast (L929) cell lines were used to examine in vitro cell adhesion and cell proliferation; while osteoblast-like (osteosarcoma, MG63) cells were used for in vitro osteoblastic function study by ALP and OC expression. Much emphasis has been provided to discuss the cell viability and proliferation as well as osteoblastic differentiation marker on the investigated biocomposites in relation to the characteristics of the phase assemblage. On the basis of various observations using multiple biochemical assays, it has been suggested that BCP-mullite composites would be a candidate material for orthopedic applications.
Music’s impact on the visual perception of emotional dyadic interactions
Authors: Kaiser Ramona , Keller Peter E.
Published: July 2011

Research showing that emotions can be recognized in point-light displays of human dyadic interactions was extended in the current study by investigating the impact of music on the perception of normal and exaggerated expressions of happiness, contentedness, sadness and anger in such visual stimuli. Sixteen musically untrained participants viewed short video clips of these emotion portrayals, each presented with emotionally compatible (e.g., happy music accompanies a happy interaction) and emotionally incompatible piano music (e.g., sad music accompanies a happy interaction). It was hypothesized that music will increase the accuracy of emotion judgements in displays where auditory and visual information is compatible relative to displays with incompatible audio-visual information. A two-dimensional emotion space was used to record participants’ judgements of emotion in only the visual stimuli. Results indicated that music affected the accuracy of emotion judgements. Happiness and sadness were perceived more accurately in compatible than in incompatible conditions, while the opposite was the case for contentedness. Anger was perceived accurately in all conditions. Exaggerated expressions of sadness, which were evaluated more accurately than normal expressions of sadness, were also found to be resistant to the music. These findings can be interpreted in the light of previous research demonstrating that music’s cross-modal impact depends on the degree of emotional ambiguity in the visual display. More generally, the results demonstrate that the perception of emotions in biological motion can be affected by music.
Tackling Youth Anti-social Behaviour in Devolving Wales: A Study of the Tiered Approach in Swansea
Authors: Hoffman Simon , Macdonald Stuart
Published: July 2011

The focus of this article is Swansea’s tiered approach to tackling youth anti-social behaviour. It discusses the findings of a series of interviews with individuals working in the city around the following four themes: de-escalation and diversion; consistency and avoiding net-widening; inclusionary welfarism and multi-agency partnership; and voluntarism, engagement and compliance. Recognizing that youth justice policies can vary both between and within jurisdictions, the article argues that the interviewees’ accounts contrast sharply with New Labour’s New Youth Justice, embody key features of the Welsh Assembly Government’s children’s policy, and might inform the new approach to tackling anti-social behaviour promised by the Coalition Government.
Maintaining Physical Fitness and Function in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Yu Fang , Savik Kay , Wyman Jean F. , Bronas Ulf G.
Published: July 2011

Background: Little is known about how aerobic exercise affects physical functioning in persons with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Methods: This pilot study used a 1-group repeated measures design to examine the feasibility and impact of a 6-month individualized moderate intensity cycling intervention on cardiorespiratory fitness and lower extremity function in 8 participants aged 81.4 ± 3.58. Cardiorespiratory fitness was measured using the shuttle walk and modified YMCA cycle ergometer tests, and lower extremity function was measured using the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) at baseline, 3 months and 6 months. Results: The YMCA test showed a significant reduction in heart rate at stage 2 (103.4 vs 90.9 vs 91.6; P = .01), while no significant changes were observed in the shuttle walk and SPPB tests. Conclusions: Persons with AD are able to improve cardiorespiratory conditioning from aerobic exercise. Randomized, controlled trials are needed to confirm these findings. Implications for future research are detailed.