bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screening for Osteoporosis in Men Aged 70 Years and Older in a Primary Care Setting in the United States
Authors: Lim Sian Yik , Lim Joon Hee , Nguyen Dan , Okamura Rie , Amiri Hoda Mojazi , Calmes Michael , Nugent Kenneth
Published: February 2013

Osteoporosis in men is an underrecognized and undertreated condition. Despite the National Osteoporosis Foundation recommending osteoporosis screening in men aged 70 years and older since 2008, screening rates in the United States remain undefined. In our study, we analyzed dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) screening rates in a primary care setting. Overall, screening rates were low (11.3%). Although there was an increase with age in both the 10-year osteoporotic and 10-year hip fracture probabilities, no association was found between increased age and bone mineral density testing using DXA. Only 23.2% of patients were prescribed bone protective treatments. The performance of DXA screening strongly predicted prescription of bone protective treatment. Increased age raised the likelihood of bone protective treatment prescriptions; however, smokers were less likely to be prescribed these medications. As the population in the United States ages, an increased awareness of this major public health problem is warranted.
Yes It Can
Authors: Hassin Ran R.
Published: February 2013

Understanding the division of labor between conscious processes and unconscious ones is central to our understanding of the human mind. This article proposes a simple “Yes It Can” (or YIC) principle: It argues that unconscious processes can perform the same fundamental, high-level functions that conscious processes can perform. The author presents considerations of evolutionary pressures and of the availability of mental resources that render YIC a reasonable hypothesis. Evidence is then reviewed from various subfields of the cognitive sciences, which shows that functions that were traditionally thought of as requiring consciousness can occur nonconsciously. On the basis of these data and arguments, it is proposed that an answer to the question “What is it that consciousness does?” would not be in the form of “Consciousness is necessary for F,” where F is a fundamental, high-level cognitive function. In Marr’s (1982) terms, the argument is that computationally conscious and unconscious processes are very similar. Yet differences in how these processes kick in and in the ways in which they play out (Marr’s algorithmic-representational level) are likely to have interesting implications for human cognition, motivation, and emotion.
Prospection by Any Other Name? A Response to Seligman et al. (2013)
Authors: Fukukura Jun , Helzer Erik G. , Ferguson Melissa J.
Published: February 2013

We stand in agreement with Seligman et al. (2013, this issue) that prospection is an important psychological process, but we disagree that it has been neglected within the psychological literature. We further question some of the broader claims made by the authors regarding conscious decision making and free will. We argue that future-oriented cognition is fully consistent with deterministic accounts of cognition, including automaticity, and that prospection does little to advance the position of free will.
Treatment of extra-articular and simple articular distal radial fractures with intramedullary nail versus volar locking plate
Authors: Safi A. , Hart R. , Těknědžjan B. , Kozák T.
Published: February 2013

The purpose of this prospective, randomized and blinded study was to compare the clinical outcomes of distal radial fractures treated with either an intramedullary nail or a volar locking plate. Sixty two patients were enrolled in the study and randomized to treatment with a MICRONAILTM (Group 1, 31 patients) or an adaptive plate (Group 2, 31 patients). Fracture types included were unstable extra-articular metaphyseal distal radial fractures and simple or multifragmentary sagittal articular distal radial fractures (AO classification types A2, A3, B1.1 and B1.2). All patients were evaluated at 6 weeks, 3 months and 12 months after surgery. Outcome measures included standard radiographic parameters, active wrist range of motion, the disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) and Mayo wrist scores. We concluded that treatment of this subset of distal radius fractures with minimally invasive intramedullary nailing gives better clinical outcomes at 6 weeks after surgery than treatment with a volar locking plate. By 3 and 12 months following surgery, there are no significant differences in outcome between the two treatment methods.

Disadvantages of the MICRONAIL™ fixation system include risk of injury to the superficial branch of the radial nerve and a narrower spectrum of indications than volar locking plates.
New strategies for the management of diverticular disease: insights for the clinician
Authors: Boynton Wen , Floch Martin
Published: February 2013

Diverticulosis is one of the most common gastrointestinal conditions affecting the general population in the Western world. It is estimated that over 2.5 million people are affected by diverticular disease in the United States. The spectrum of clinical manifestations of diverticulosis ranges from asymptomatic diverticulosis to complicated diverticulitis. Treatment for symptomatic diverticular disease is largely based on symptoms. Traditional therapy includes fiber, bowel rest, antibiotics, pain control and surgery for selected cases. This review discusses recent advances in the medical treatment of diverticular disease such as the use of mesalamine, rifaximin and probiotics as our understanding of the disease evolves.
Comparison of body-array MRI and Partin tables for predicting extracapsular prostate cancer
Authors: Armitage James N , Igali Laszlo , Ball Richard Y , Mills Robert D , Kumar Vivekanandan
Published: February 2013

Objective:

The objective of this article is to evaluate the performance of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and Partin tables at predicting extracapsular disease (ECD) in men with prostate cancer.

Patients and methods:

We identified all patients who had a radical prostatectomy at our institution in 2008. MRI and Partin predictions of ECD were compared with the histopathological stage. Oncological outcome at one year was assessed by biochemical recurrence (BCR) (prostate-specific antigen (PSA) ≥ 0.4 ng/dl followed by another rise).

Results:

Staging and follow-up data were available for 69 of the 80 patients (86%) who had had radical prostatectomy. Thirty-five of 69 patients had a body-array MRI scan. MRI predicted ECD (≥ rT3) with a sensitivity of 41% and specificity of 69%. Partin tables (> 50% risk ECD) had a sensitivity of 81% and specificity of 54%. Of the 35 patients who had an MRI scan, 22 (63%) had ECD and nine (26%) had BCR. Of the 34 men who were not staged with an MRI, only 10 (29%) had ECD and four (12%) had BCR.

Conclusion:

MRI performed no better than Partin tables at predicting ECD. Furthermore, patients who did not have an MRI, because of favourable prognostic clinical variables, had a low risk of ECD and BCR. We question the role of body-array MRI for staging prostate cancer and recognise an urgent need for prospective evaluation of multiparametric MRI.
Biomechanical Evaluation of Mini-Fragment Hardware for Supination External Rotation Fractures of the Distal Fibula
Authors: Bariteau Jason T. , Blankenhorn Brad D. , Lareau Craig R. , Paller David J. , DiGiovanni Christopher W.
Published: February 2013

Background. Supination external rotation distal fibula fractures are common, requiring fixation when associated with talar displacement. Subcutaneous distal fibula hardware may become painful, necessitating operative removal. We hypothesize that mini-fragment and small-fragment constructs will demonstrate similar biomechanical stability. Methods. A biomechanical comparison was performed in synthetic osteoporotic sawbones. The first arm compared two 2.4-mm lag screws with one 3.5-mm lag screw for fixation of a simulated supination external rotation distal fibula fracture. The second arm compared a 2.4-mm plate-screw construct with a 3.5-mm lag screw and one-third tubular neutralization plate. During torsional testing, torque and displacement were recorded, and stiffness and peak torque were determined. Results. Differences in mean stiffness and mean load at failure were not statistically significant with lag screw–only fixation. The 3.5-mm plate-screw construct outperformed the 2.4-mm plate-screw construct, but neither mean stiffness nor mean load at failure were statistically significantly different. Dynamic testing also demonstrated similar results. Conclusion. Our data suggest that isolated 2.4-mm screws function similarly to one 3.5-mm screw. Although the 3.5-mm plate-screw construct was stiffer, mean load at failure was equivalent for the 2 constructs. These data provide biomechanical evidence to support further investigation in the use of mini-fragment hardware for distal fibula fracture fixation.

Levels of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level V
Website Evaluation of the Top 100 Hotels Using Advanced Content Analysis and eMICA Model
Authors: Ting Ping-Ho , Wang Shu-Tai , Bau Dong-Yih , Chiang Miao-Ling
Published: February 2013

This study analyzes the features offered by the websites of the top 100 independent hotels on four continents, as listed in Travel + Leisure in 2010. The study demonstrates the application of a modified extended Model of Internet Commerce Adoption (eMICA) technique for technical depth and content analysis for breadth as well as inferential statistics and perceptual mapping. The study assesses the presence of fifty-nine website features on the hotels’ websites grouped according to the three eMICA stages of promotion, provision, and processing and also grouped in seven dimensions determined by the content analysis, namely, functionality, innovation, interactivity, marketing, navigation, online processing, and service. The results of website evaluation modeling suggest that (1) hotels in Asia have more of the features than those of the other continent, (2) Europe and Asia were the leading continents in website development depth based on the eMICA model, and (3) each continent’s webpages were distinct as follows: (a) European hotel webpages emphasized online and multilanguage support, (b) Asian sites emphasized on real-time interaction services and privacy policies, (c) Africa’s pages emphasized travel tips and weather information services, and (d) American hotel webpages led in Web 2.0 features.
Demographics, treatment patterns, safety, and real-world effectiveness in patients aged 70 years and over with chronic lymphocytic leukemia receiving bendamustine with or without rituximab: a retrospective study
Authors: Kolibaba Kathryn S. , Sterchele James A. , Joshi Avani D. , Forsyth Michael , Alwon Erin , Beygi Hooman , Kennealey Gerard T.
Published: February 2013

Objectives:

Bendamustine is a unique cytotoxic agent active against various human malignancies, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). In vitro studies suggest that cytotoxic activity of bendamustine on CLL-derived cells is synergized by rituximab. A retrospective chart review was conducted to characterize treatment-naïve outpatients and those with relapsed disease aged 70 years and over with CLL receiving bendamustine (with or without rituximab) and to evaluate real-world patterns of care, safety, and effectiveness.

Methods:

Using McKesson Specialty Care/US Oncology Network iKnowMed databases, 91 outpatients with at least two recorded visits and at least two cycles of bendamustine monotherapy or bendamustine–rituximab combination therapy were identified and included. Mean age at diagnosis and start of first therapy was 70.3 and 77.4 years respectively, and 63.7% of patients were men.

Results:

Observed overall response rate was 56.3% in pooled treatment-naïve patients [ n = 9; complete response (CR) 18.8%; partial response (PR) 37.5%; nodular partial response (nPR) 0%] and 58.7% in pooled patients with relapsed disease ( n = 44; CR 13.3%; PR 44.0%; nPR 1.3%). Median time to progressive disease has not been reached for the 16 treatment-naïve patients (median follow up 15.1 months), and was 18.4 months for those with relapsed disease ( n = 73). No unexpected toxicities were observed. Overall rate of blood/bone marrow toxicities (all grades) was 40.7%; grade 3/4 rates were 18.8% in treatment-naïve patients and 25.3% in those with relapsed disease. Most frequent nonhematologic adverse events were fatigue and rash.

Conclusion:

In this retrospective chart review of 91 outpatients with CLL aged 70 years and over, bendamustine (with or without rituximab) was an effective therapeutic option with manageable toxicity.
Optimal treatment of diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Hammes Hans-Peter
Published: February 2013

Diabetic retinopathy (DRP) is a common complication caused by multiple biochemical abnormalities of the underlying metabolic disease. While the incidence of DRP appears to decline due to evidence-based changes in diabetes management, the predicted increase in patients affected in particular by type 2 diabetes may outweigh the positive trend. The diagnosis is based on the alterations of the vessels, usually indicating abnormalities of the blood–retinal barrier and increased vasoregression, but the neuroglial elements appear equally vulnerable to the diabetic condition. Control of blood glucose, blood pressure and timely identification of coincident nephropathy are important to prevent progression to vision-threatening stages. Guidelines give specific indications for laser photocoagulation, in particular when euglycemia is no longer effective in preventing progression to advanced stages. Intravitreal administration of antibodies directed against the single best characterized propagator of clinically significant macular edema, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), has become popular despite uncertainty about the patient subgroups which benefit best and the optimum administration schedule. Multifactorial intervention beyond glycemic control includes antihypertensive, lipid-lowering and antiaggregatory and is effective in type 2 diabetic patients with high-risk profiles, in particular coincident nephropathy.
Younger Cosmetology Workers and Environmental and Occupational Asthma Triggers at Training Sites and in Salons
Authors: Shendell Derek G. , Mapou Ashley E. Miller , Kelly Sarah W.
Published: February 2013

Secondary school students in career, technical, and vocational education (CTE) programs include minors aged ≤17 years. These students enter the workforce starting at age 18 as young adults, and specifically in cosmetology after completing the State of New Jersey mandated 2-part licensing exam (theory and practical). The New Jersey Safe Schools Task Force 2010-2012 focused on potential safety and health (S&H) risks encountered by minors training in cosmetology. We conducted a stakeholder-driven participatory process with relevant state and federal agencies, private sector partners, teachers, administrators, and students from 1-in-3 of 21 county CTE school districts. We developed and disseminated Web pages ( http://www.njsafeschools.org/Cosmetology.htm ) with science-based information, materials such as “Right to Know” brochures in multiple languages (English, Spanish), and student-designed educational posters. Resources highlight S&H issues such as chemical exposures, including known environmental and occupational asthma triggers and respiratory irritants, for example, formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds. Asthma education professionals working in clinical management of chronic respiratory diseases can increase self-awareness of S&H in cosmetology. They can then help inform younger patients/workers with asthma, teachers, older employees, and managers/owners of hair, nail, and skin care salons of potential asthma triggers. The goal is to minimize exposures (S&H risks) among these professionals and their clients (general public).
Obscure Severe Infrarenal Aortoiliac Stenosis With Severe Transient Lactic Acidosis
Authors: Nantsupawat Teerapat , Mankongpaisarnrung Charoen , Soontrapa Suthipong , Limsuwat Chok , Nugent Kenneth
Published: February 2013

A 57-year-old man presented with sudden onset of leg pain, right-sided weakness, aphasia, confusion, drooling, and severe lactic acidosis (15 mmol/L). He had normal peripheral pulses and demonstrated no pain, pallor, poikilothermia, paresthesia, or paralysis. Empiric antibiotics, aspirin, full-dose enoxaparin, and intravenous fluid were initiated. Lactic acid level decreased to 2.5 mmol/L. The patient was subsequently extubated and was alert and oriented with no complaints of leg or abdominal pain. Unexpectedly, the patient developed cardiac arrest, rebound severe lactic acidosis (8.13 mmol/L), and signs of acute limb ischemia. Emergent computed tomography of the aorta confirmed infrarenal aortoiliac thrombosis. Transient leg pain and transient severe lactic acidosis can be unusual presentations of severe infrarenal aortoiliac stenosis. When in doubt, vascular studies should be implemented without delay to identify this catastrophic diagnosis.
A Qualitative Analysis of the Effects of Depression and Antidepressants on Physical and Work Functioning among Antiretroviral Therapy Clients in Uganda
Authors: Ngo Victoria K. , Wagner Glenn J. , Huynh Alexis , Ryan Gery , Musisi Seggane
Published: February 2013

Depression is common among people living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. Yet, little is known about how depression influences physical health and socioeconomic well-being in the context of antiretroviral therapy (ART). Semistructured interviews with 40 adult HIV clients receiving ART in Uganda were conducted to assess experiences prior to and after HIV diagnosis and initiation of ART. Content analysis revealed themes that were suggestive of the following patterns: (1) functioning decreased after patients were diagnosed with HIV, but improved following ART, (2) depression is associated with lower physical health functioning and work status levels after both HIV diagnosis and ART, and (3) antidepressant medication is associated with better functioning compared with patients with depression not receiving depression treatment. These findings suggest that depression plays a role in the deleterious effects of HIV on functioning, and that antidepressant treatment provided alongside ART may serve to help individuals regain functioning, particularly employment. These findings highlight the potential value of integrating depression treatment into HIV care.
Non-AIDS–Defining Cancers in New Orleans
Authors: Ruiz Marco , Johnson Daniel , Reske Tom , Cefalu Charles , Estrada John
Published: February 2013

Background:

Non-AIDS–defining cancers in HIV-infected patients in the highly active antiretroviral therapy era have increased. To our knowledge a comprehensive review of non-AIDS–related malignancies in New Orleans has not yet been conducted.

Methods:

Databases from main institutions in New Orleans were queried retrospectively for the years 2001 to 2011. The International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes were used to search for HIV infection and cancer comorbidity.

Results:

A total of 16 patients were diagnosed with lung cancer (mean age 50 years) with 81% of the patients presenting with advanced stages. In all, 20 (mean age 47 years) were diagnosed with anal cancer, and 35% presented in late stages. In all, 14 patients (mean age 42 years) were diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma, and 64% were diagnosed at late stage. A total of 5 women (mean age 44 years) were diagnosed with breast cancer with 40% of them presenting at late stage.

Conclusion:

Malignancies were diagnosed at late stages in the majority of the cases, presented with worse outcomes, and had higher recurrence rates. The role of HIV and other viruses (Epstein Barr virus, human papillomavirus) and the potential mechanisms or pathways of oncogene activation also need to be clarified.
Nonengagement in HIV Care
Authors: Rao Kavitha C. , Enriquez Maithe , Gantt Tynisha C. , Gerkovich Mary M. , Bonham Aaron J. , Griffin Ron G. , Bamberger David M.
Published: February 2013

Nonengagement in HIV care is a major clinical and public health challenge. To identify the risk factors and reasons, we performed (1) a retrospective study of patients admitted to the hospital with advanced HIV disease, (2) a prospective qualitative study, and (3) a population-based area-wide telephone interview. In the retrospective study, clinic care engagement was associated with age (43.9 ± 9.1 years vs 37.9 ± 7.2 years, P = .005) and improved from 23% to 44% ( P = .03) after hospitalization. Survival was higher (93% vs 73%, P = .03) among those who engaged in care. Twelve inpatients were interviewed in the qualitative study. Themes identified for nonengagement were social stigma, indifference, or lack of understanding of care needs/denial and life care issues. In the population-based study, 145 patients were interviewed. In all, 49 denied the need for HIV care and 28 denied their HIV status. Stigma, denial, and indifference or lack of understanding of need are significant barriers to care engagement.
HIV Status among Patients with Tuberculosis and HIV Testing Practices by Connecticut Health Care Providers
Authors: Clark Ian T. , Lobato Mark N. , Gutierrez Jesus , Sosa Lynn E.
Published: February 2013

Knowing the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) status of persons infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis is important for individual treatment and preventing transmission. This evaluation analyzed surveillance data and surveyed health care providers who care for patients with HIV and tuberculosis (TB) to understand the factors contributing to suboptimal levels of Connecticut patients with TB having a known HIV status. During 2008 to 2010, 208 (76.2%) of 273 patients had a known HIV status; 12 (5.8%) were HIV-positive. Patients who were more likely to have a known HIV status were younger (40.5 vs 54.6 years, P < .001) or received care in a TB clinic (risk ratio, 1.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.12-1.42). Among 77 providers, 48 (62.3%) completed the survey, 42 (87.5%) reported routinely offering HIV testing to patients with TB, and 26 (54.2%) reported routinely offering HIV testing to patients with latent TB infection (LTBI). We conclude that interventions for improving HIV testing should focus on non-TB clinic providers and patients with LTBI.
Body Mass Index and Abdominal Ultrasound Image Quality
Authors: Brahee Deborah D. , Ogedegbe Chinwe , Hassler Cynthia , Nyirenda Themba , Hazelwood Vikki , Morchel Herman , Patel Rita S. , Feldman Joseph
Published: February 2013

The objective was to assess the consensus among sonographers that the quality of abdominal ultrasound (US) images is related to the patient’s body mass index (BMI). Fourteen sonographers completed a 12-item questionnaire to evaluate their experience with abdominal US imaging with respect to image quality in correlation with the patient’s adipose tissue. Of the sonographers sampled, 85.7% agreed that there is an association between the amount of adipose tissue on a patient’s abdomen and the quality of US image obtained; 85.7% also agreed that a normal BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 provides the best US image. However, only 28.6% agreed that normal amounts of adipose tissue produce poor image quality. There appears to be agreement among sonographers that BMI is a factor in obtaining good quality abdominal US images. The general consensus was that the best abdominal US images were obtained in patients with normal BMI, whereas images obtained from patients with BMI 30.0 to 34.9 and to a lesser extent BMI 25.0 to 29.9 were limited in quality.
Migraine predicts physical and pain symptoms among psychiatric outpatients
Authors: Hung Ching-I , Liu Chia-Yih , Wang Shuu-Jiun
Published: February 2013

Background

No study has been performed to compare the impacts of migraine and major depressive episode (MDE) on depression, anxiety and somatic symptoms, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among psychiatric outpatients. The aim of this study was to investigate the above issue.

Methods

This study enrolled consecutive psychiatric outpatients with mood and/or anxiety disorders who undertook a first visit to a medical center. Migraine was diagnosed according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition. Three psychometric scales and the Short-Form 36 were administered. General linear models were used to estimate the difference in scores contributed by either migraine or MDE. Multiple linear regressions were employed to compare the variance of these scores explained by migraine or MDE.

Results

Among 214 enrolled participants, 35.0% had migraine. Bipolar II disorder patients (70.0%) had the highest percentage of migraine, followed by major depressive disorder (49.1%) and only anxiety disorder (24.5%). Patients with migraine had worse depression, anxiety, and somatic symptoms and lower SF-36 scores than those without. The estimated differences in the scores of physical functioning, bodily pain, and somatic symptoms contributed by migraine were not lower than those contributed by MDE. The regression model demonstrated the variance explained by migraine was significantly greater than that explained by MDE in physical and pain symptoms.

Conclusions

Migraine was common and the impact of migraine on physical and pain symptoms was greater than MDE among psychiatric outpatients. Integration of treatment strategies for migraine into psychiatric treatment plans should be considered.
HLA class II SNP interactions and the association with type 1 diabetes mellitus in Bengali speaking patients of Eastern India
Authors: Raha Oindrila , Sarkar Biswanath , Lakkakula Bhaskar VKS , Pasumarthy Veerraju , Godi Sudhakar , Chowdhury Subhankar , Raychaudhuri Pradip , Vadlamudi Raghavendra Rao
Published: February 2013

Background

Several studies have demonstrated a fundamental role for the HLA in the susceptibility of, or protection to, type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). However, this has not been adequately studied in Asian Indian populations. To assess the frequency of HLA class II (DPA1, DPB1, DQA1, DQB1 and DRB1) associated to susceptibility or protection toT1DM in a Bengali population of India with diabetes.

Results

Single nucleotide polymorphism study. The HLA genotyping was performed by a polymerase chain reaction followed by their HLA-DP, DQ, and DRB1 genotypes and haplotypes by sequencing method. The results are studied by Plink software. The χ
2 tests were used for the inferential statistics. To our knowledge, this study is the first of a kind which has attempted to check the HLA association with T1DM by SNPs analysis. The study recruited 151 patients with T1DM and same number of ethno-linguistic, sex matched non-diabetic controls. The present study found a significant SNP rs7990 of HLA-DQA1 (p = 0.009) negative correlation, again indicating that risk from HLA is considerably more with T1DM.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that the HLA class-II alleles play a major role in genetic basis of T1DM.
Identification of germ cell-specific genes in mammalian meiotic prophase
Authors: Li Yunfei , Ray Debjit , Ye Ping
Published: February 2013

Background

Mammalian germ cells undergo meiosis to produce sperm or eggs, haploid cells that are primed to meet and propagate life. Meiosis is initiated by retinoic acid and meiotic prophase is the first and most complex stage of meiosis when homologous chromosomes pair to exchange genetic information. Errors in meiosis can lead to infertility and birth defects. However, despite the importance of this process, germ cell-specific gene expression patterns during meiosis remain undefined due to difficulty in obtaining pure germ cell samples, especially in females, where prophase occurs in the embryonic ovary. Indeed, mixed signals from both germ cells and somatic cells complicate gonadal transcriptome studies.

Results

We developed a machine-learning method for identifying germ cell-specific patterns of gene expression in microarray data from mammalian gonads, specifically during meiotic initiation and prophase. At 10% recall, the method detected spermatocyte genes and oocyte genes with 90% and 94% precision, respectively. Our method outperformed gonadal expression levels and gonadal expression correlations in predicting germ cell-specific expression. Top-predicted spermatocyte and oocyte genes were both preferentially localized to the X chromosome and significantly enriched for essential genes. Also identified were transcription factors and microRNAs that might regulate germ cell-specific expression. Finally, we experimentally validated Rps6ka3, a top-predicted X-linked spermatocyte gene. Protein localization studies in the mouse testis revealed germ cell-specific expression of RPS6KA3, mainly detected in the cytoplasm of spermatogonia and prophase spermatocytes.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated that, through the use of machine-learning methods, it is possible to detect germ cell-specific expression from gonadal microarray data. Results from this study improve our understanding of the transition from germ cells to meiocytes in the mammalian gonad. Further, this approach is applicable to other tissues for which isolating cell populations remains difficult.
Impact of care management processes and integration of care on blood pressure control in diabetes
Authors: Wong Ken , Boulanger Luke , Smalarz Amy , Wu Ning , Fraser Kimberly , Wogen Jenifer
Published: February 2013

Background

Fragmentation within health care systems may negatively impact the quality of chronic disease patient care. We sought to evaluate the relationship between care management processes (CMP), integration of services, and blood pressure (BP) control among diabetic patients.

Methods

Retrospective chart reviews were performed for a random sample of adult diabetic hypertensive patients (n = 2,162) from 28 physician organizations in the United States (US). A modified version of the Physician Practice Connection Readiness Survey (PPC-RS) was completed by the chief medical officer at each site. The PPC-RS measured health system organization, delivery system redesign, decision support, clinical information systems, and self-management support, and an integration scale measured structure, functions, and financial risk. Correlations between PPC and integration scores and BP outcomes were assessed using Spearman correlation coefficients.

Results

Approximately 39.9% of diabetic patients had controlled BP. Mean total PPC score across sites was 55, with highest mean scores for health system organization (81), followed by design support (60), clinical information systems (57), self-management support (39), and delivery system redesign (39). Mean integration score was 46 (SD 27, range 4–93), and means of subscores were 64 for structure, 33 for financial risk, and 42 for function. Clinical information systems subscore was correlated with uncontrolled BP (r = −0.38, p < 0.05), while association with total PPC score was strong but not significant at p < 0.05 (r = −0.32). Total integration score and the structure subscore were significantly correlated with BP control (r = 0.38, p < 0.05, and r = 0.49, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

This study suggests that CMP and service integration may be associated with better outcomes in diabetes, though results were mixed and limited by a small number of participating sites. Primary care implementation of integrated electronic medical records may have a beneficial effect on patient outcomes for diabetes and other chronic diseases.
Attenuated antigen-specific T cell responses in cirrhosis are accompanied by elevated serum interleukin-10 levels and down-regulation of HLA-DR on monocytes
Authors: Peter Jack , Frey Oliver , Stallmach Andreas , Bruns Tony
Published: February 2013

Background

Advanced liver disease predisposes to bacterial translocation and endotoxaemia which can contribute to elevated circulating levels of IL-10 and down-regulation of MHC class II on antigen-presenting cells. We sought to evaluate antigen-specific T-cell responses toward common viral antigens in order to investigate defects in cellular immunity in cirrhosis.

Methods

Peripheral blood was obtained from 22 cirrhotic patients with systemic inflammation, 13 cirrhotic patients without systemic inflammation and 14 healthy controls. C-reactive protein was used as an indicator for systemic inflammation using a cut-off of 10 mg/l. Intracellular Th1 cytokines were quantified after T cell-stimulation with the viral peptides EBNA1 and BZLF1 or the bacterial superantigen SEB by flow cytometry. Serum levels of lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) and IL-10 were quantified by ELISA.

Results

Compared to healthy controls, patients with cirrhosis had higher circulating levels of LBP and IL-10, an expansion of peripheral blood CD14+monocytes with low HLA-DR expression and an increased fraction of CD25-positive CD4+and CD8+T cells. These findings were most pronounced in cirrhotic patients with systemic inflammation but fell short of reaching statistical significance when comparing against cirrhotic patients without systemic inflammation. In the former group TNF-α production in CD4+and CD8+T cells was reduced after stimulation with SEB, whereas there was no significant difference between the total cohort of cirrhotic patients and controls. After stimulation with the overlapping peptide pools for viral antigens EBNA1 and BZLF1, the number of responding T cells and the amount of TNF-α or IFN-γ production did not differ between the three pre-defined groups. However, cirrhotic patients with null-responses to EBV peptides had significantly higher serum IL-10 levels than responders to EBV peptides. Furthermore, TNF-α production in responding T cells was attenuated in patients with a high frequency of CD14+HLA-DR-monocytes.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that bacterial translocation, endotoxaemia, inflammation and T cell activation in cirrhosis are accompanied by an increase in circulating anti-inflammatory cytokines, reduced monocytic MHC class II expression and attenuated cytokine production in T cells. These changes are likely to contribute to altered adaptive immune responses during infection or after vaccination.
Promoter hypomethylation, especially around the E26 transformation-specific motif, and increased expression of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 in BRCA-mutated serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Bi Fang-Fang , Li Da , Yang Qing
Published: February 2013

Background

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) overexpression plays a critical role in ovarian cancer progression and the clinical development of PARP1 inhibitors to treat BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer has advanced rapidly. However, the mechanism regulating PARP1 expression remains unknown. Alterations in gene expression mediated by promoter methylation are being increasingly recognized and have frequently been reported in ovarian cancer. We therefore investigated the methylation status of the PARP1 promoter region and its correlation with PARP1 expression in BRCA-mutated ovarian cancer.

Methods

DNA from BRCA-mutated serous ovarian cancer samples and adjacent normal ovarian tissues were analyzed by bisulfite sequence using primers focusing on the CpG island in the promoter region of PARP1. Expression levels of PARP1 were assessed by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR.

Results

Serous ovarian cancer tissues displayed decreased DNA methylation in the promoter region of PARP1 compared to normal tissue, and methylation intensity correlated inversely with PARP1 mRNA levels. More importantly, E26 transformation-specific (ETS) defined CpG sites were significantly less methylated in ovarian cancer samples.

Conclusions

These results indicate that hypomethylation of the promoter region, especially around the ETS motif might play a role in the upregulation of PARP1 expression in the progression of ovarian cancer.
The association between academic engagement and achievement in health sciences students
Authors: Casuso-Holgado Maria J , Cuesta-Vargas Antonio I , Moreno-Morales Noelia , Labajos-Manzanares Maria T , Barón-López Francisco J , Vega-Cuesta Manuel
Published: February 2013

Background

Educational institutions play an important role in encouraging student engagement, being necessary to know how engaged are students at university and if this factor is involved in student success point and followed.

To explore the association between academic engagement and achievement.

Methods

Cross-sectional study. The sample consisted of 304 students of Health Sciences. They were asked to fill out an on-line questionnaire. Academic achievements were calculated using three types of measurement.

Results

Positive correlations were found in all cases. Grade point average was the academic rate most strongly associated with engagement dimensions and this association is different for male and female students. The independent variables could explain between 18.9 and 23.9% of the variance (p < 0.05) in the population of university students being analyzed.

Conclusions

Engagement has been shown to be one of the many factors, which are positively involved, in the academic achievements of college students.
The continuous fractional Bessel wavelet transformation
Authors: Prasad Akhilesh , Mahato Ashutosh , Singh Vishal Kumar , Dixit Madan Mohan
Published: February 2013

The main objective of this paper is to study the fractional Hankel transformation and the continuous fractional Bessel wavelet transformation and some of their basic properties. Applications of the fractional Hankel transformation (FrHT) in solving generalized n th order linear nonhomogeneous ordinary differential equations are given. The continuous fractional Bessel wavelet transformation, its inversion formula and Parseval’s relation for the continuous fractional Bessel wavelet transformation are also studied.

MSC:46F12, 26A33.
Immunohistochemical expression of CD44s in human neuroblastic tumors: Moroccan experience and highlights on current data
Authors: Tabyaoui Imane , Tahiri-Jouti Nadia , Serhier Zineb , Bennani-Othmani Mohamed , Sibai Hicham , Itri Mohamed , Benchekroun Said , Zamiati Soumaya
Published: February 2013

Background

Peripheral neuroblastic tumors (pNTs), including neuroblastoma (NB), ganglioneuroblastoma (GNB) and ganglioneuroma (GN), are extremely heterogeneous pediatric tumors responsible for 15 % of childhood cancer death. The aim of the study was to evaluate the expression of CD44s (‘s’: standard form) cell adhesion molecule by comparison with other specific prognostic markers.

Methods

An immunohistochemical profile of 32 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded pNTs tissues, diagnosed between January 2007 and December 2010, was carried out.

Results

Our results have demonstrated the association of CD44s negative pNTs cells to lack of differentiation and tumour progression. A significant association between absence of CD44s expression and metastasis in human pNTs has been reported. We also found that expression of CD44s defines subgroups of patients without MYCN amplification as evidenced by its association with low INSS stages, absence of metastasis and favorable Shimada histology.

Discussion

These findings support the thesis of the role of CD44s glycoprotein in the invasive growth potential of neoplastic cells and suggest that its expression could be taken into consideration in the therapeutic approaches targeting metastases.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here:http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1034403150888863
Carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs) revisited: reduced amount of water counterbalances the need for CBMs
Authors: Várnai Anikó , Siika-aho Matti , Viikari Liisa
Published: February 2013

Background

A vast number of organisms are known to produce structurally diversified cellulases capable of degrading cellulose, the most abundant biopolymer on earth. The generally accepted paradigm is that the carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs) of cellulases are required for efficient saccharification of insoluble substrates. Based on sequence data, surprisingly more than 60% of the cellulases identified lack carbohydrate-binding modules or alternative protein structures linked to cellulases (dockerins). This finding poses the question about the role of the CBMs: why would most cellulases lack CBMs, if they are necessary for the efficient hydrolysis of cellulose?

Results

The advantage of CBMs, which increase the affinity of cellulases to substrates, was found to be diminished by reducing the amount of water in the hydrolytic system, which increases the probability of enzyme-substrate interaction. At low substrate concentration (1% w/w), CBMs were found to be more important in the catalytic performance of the cellobiohydrolases TrCel7A and TrCel6A of Trichoderma reesei as compared to that of the endoglucanases TrCel5A and TrCel7B. Increasing the substrate concentration while maintaining the enzyme-to-substrate ratio enhanced adsorption of TrCel7A, independent of the presence of the CBM. At 20% (w/w) substrate concentration, the hydrolytic performance of cellulases without CBMs caught up with that of cellulases with CBMs. This phenomenon was more noticeable on the lignin-containing pretreated wheat straw as compared to the cellulosic Avicel, presumably due to unproductive adsorption of enzymes to lignin.

Conclusions

Here we propose that the water content in the natural environments of carbohydrate-degrading organisms might have led to the evolution of various substrate-binding structures. In addition, some well recognized problems of economical saccharification such as unproductive binding of cellulases, which reduces the hydrolysis rate and prevents recycling of enzymes, could be partially overcome by omitting CBMs. This finding could help solve bottlenecks of enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocelluloses and speed up commercialization of second generation bioethanol.
Low-temperature preparation and physical characterization of doped BaCeO3 nanoparticles by chemical precipitation
Authors: Ketzial Joseph Sundar Singh Jasmine , Radhika Devi , Nesaraj Arputharaj Samson
Published: February 2013

Background

In this work, the nanoparticles of pure BaCe1−x

M

x
O3−δ (where M = Gd or Sm and x = 0, 0.10, or 0.20) were synthesized by the simple chemical precipitation method. The prepared materials were calcined at 300°C, 450°C, and 600°C for 2 h each to obtain phase-pure compounds. The samples were characterized by thermogravimetry/differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDAX) analysis, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), particle size analysis, and scanning electron microscopy.

Results

TGA/DTA results have shown that phase-pure BaCeO3 materials can be formed only above 500°C. The crystalline structure of parent and doped BaCeO3 was found to be orthorhombic. EDAX analysis has shown the atomic percentage of elements present in the Gd- and Sm-doped BaCeO3 samples. FTIR studies have shown the presence of Ce-O in doped BaCeO3 nanoparticles.

Conclusions

Doped BaCeO3 may be used as an electrolyte for solid oxide fuel cell applications.
Modeling of fluidized bed reactor for ethylene polymerization: effect of parameters on the single-pass ethylene conversion
Authors: Farag Hassan , Ossman Mona , Mansour Moustapha , Farid Yousra
Published: February 2013

Background

In this study, we present the developments in modeling gas-phase catalyzed olefin polymerization fluidized bed reactors (FBR) using chromium catalyst technique. The model is based on the two-phase theory of gas-solid fluidization: bubble phase and emulsion phase. The model has proved to be the suitable model in many of past studies. In the proposed model, the bed is divided into several sequential sections. The effect of important reactor parameters such as superficial gas velocity, catalyst injection rate, catalyst particle growth, and minimum fluidization velocity on the dynamic behavior of the FBR has been discussed. The conversion of product in a fluidized bed reactor is investigated and compared with the actual data from the plant site.

Results

A good agreement has been observed between the model predictions and the actual plant data. It has been shown that about 0.28% difference between the calculated and actual conversions has been achieved.

Conclusions

The study showed that the computational model was capable of predicting the hydrodynamic behavior of gas-solid fluidized bed flows with reasonable accuracy.
Urinary CD8+ T-cell counts discriminate between active and inactive lupus nephritis
Authors: Dolff Sebastian , Abdulahad Wayel H , Arends Suzanne , van Dijk Marcory CRF , Limburg Pieter C , Kallenberg Cees GM , Bijl Marc
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Lupus nephritis (LN) is a severe and frequent manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Early detection of initial renal manifestations and relapses during follow-up is pivotal to prevent loss of renal function. Apart from renal biopsies, current urinary and serological diagnostic tests fail to accurately demonstrate the presence of active LN. Previously, we demonstrated that effector memory T-cells (CD45RO+CCR7-;TEM) migrate into the urine during active LN. The objective of this study was to assess the diagnostic value of urinary T-cells in comparison with traditional markers of active LN.

Methods

T-cells in the urine during active LN and remission were investigated. Twenty-two, in most cases biopsy-proven, active LN patients and 24 SLE patients without active LN were enrolled and serial measurements were performed in 16 patients.

Results

Analysis of the urinary sediment in active renal disease showed an increased number of CD8+ T-cells and absence of these cells during remission. Enumerating T-cell counts in LN patients with a history of renal involvement was a superior marker of active LN in comparison to traditional markers, such as proteinuria and s-creatinine.

Conclusions

In conclusion, urinary T-cells, in particular CD8+ T cells, are a promising marker to assess renal activity in LN patients, in particular in those with prior renal involvement.
Tympanic border cells are Wnt-responsive and can act as progenitors for postnatal mouse cochlear cells
Authors: Jan Taha Adnan , Chai Renjie , Sayyid Zahra Nabi , van Amerongen Renée , Xia Anping , Wang Tian , Sinkkonen Saku Tapani , Zeng Yi Arial , Levin Jared Ruben , Heller Stefan , Nusse Roel , Cheng Alan Gi-Lun
Published: February 2013

Permanent hearing loss is caused by the irreversible damage of cochlear sensory hair cells and nonsensory supporting cells. In the postnatal cochlea, the sensory epithelium is terminally differentiated, whereas tympanic border cells (TBCs) beneath the sensory epithelium are proliferative. The functions of TBCs are poorly characterized. Using an Axin2lacZ Wnt reporter mouse, we found transient but robust Wnt signaling and proliferation in TBCs during the first 3 postnatal weeks, when the number of TBCs decreases. In vivo lineage tracing shows that a subset of hair cells and supporting cells is derived postnatally from Axin2-expressing TBCs. In cochlear explants, Wnt agonists stimulated the proliferation of TBCs, whereas Wnt inhibitors suppressed it. In addition, purified Axin2lacZ cells were clonogenic and self-renewing in culture in a Wnt-dependent manner, and were able to differentiate into hair cell-like and supporting cell-like cells. Taken together, our data indicate that Axin2-positive TBCs are Wnt responsive and can act as precursors to sensory epithelial cells in the postnatal cochlea.
Auxin 2012: a rich mea ho’oulu
Authors: Strader Lucia C. , Nemhauser Jennifer L.
Published: February 2013

In December 2012, scientists from around the world gathered in Waikoloa, Hawaii for ‘Auxin 2012’, a meeting organized by Paula McSteen (University of Missouri, USA), Ben Scheres (Utrecht University, The Netherlands) and Yunde Zhao (University of California, San Diego, USA). At the meeting, participants discussed the latest advances in auxin biosynthesis, transport and signaling research, in addition to providing context for how these pathways intersect with other aspects of plant physiology and development. Fittingly, the meeting began with a traditional Hawaiian ceremony that recognized the centrality of the harvest of plant life (’mea ho’oulu’ in Hawaiian) for continued human survival.