bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
5-alpha-reductase type I (SRD5A1) is up-regulated in non-small cell lung cancer but does not impact proliferation, cell cycle distribution or apoptosis
Authors: Kapp Friedrich G , Sommer Anette , Kiefer Thomas , Dölken Gottfried , Haendler Bernard
Published: January 2012

Background

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most frequent malignancies and has a high mortality rate due to late detection and lack of efficient treatments. Identifying novel drug targets for this indication may open the way for new treatment strategies. Comparison of gene expression profiles of NSCLC and normal adjacent tissue (NAT) allowed to determine that 5-alpha-reductase type I (SRD5A1) was up-regulated in NSCLC compared to NAT. This raised the question whether SRD5A1 was involved in sustained proliferation and survival of NSCLC.

Methods

siRNA-mediated silencing of SRD5A1 was performed in A549 and NCI-H460 lung cancer cell lines in order to determine the impact on proliferation, on distribution during the different phases of the cell cycle, and on apoptosis/necrosis. In addition, lung cancer cell lines were treated with 4-azasteroids, which specifically inhibit SRD5A1 activity, and the effects on proliferation were measured. Statistical analyses using ANOVA and post-hoc Tamhane-T2-test were performed. In the case of non-parametric data, the Kruskal-Wallis test and the post-hoc Mann-Whitney-U-test were used.

Results

The knock-down of SRDA51 expression was very efficient with the SRD5A1 transcripts being reduced to 10% of control levels. Knock-down efficiency was furthermore confirmed at the protein level. However, no effect of SRD5A1 silencing was observed in the proliferation assay, the cell cycle analysis, and the apoptosis/necrosis assay. Treatment of lung cancer cell lines with 4-azasteroids did not significantly inhibit proliferation.

Conclusions

In summary, the results suggest that SRD5A1 is not a crucial enzyme for the sustained proliferation of NSCLC cell lines.
Optical sensing nanostructures for porous silicon rugate filters
Authors: Li Sha , Hu Dehong , Huang Jianfeng , Cai Lintao
Published: January 2012

Porous silicon rugate filters [PSRFs] and combination PSRFs [C-PSRFs] are emerging as interesting sensing materials due to their specific nanostructures and superior optical properties. In this work, we present a systematic study of the PSRF fabrication and its nanostructure/optical characterization. Various PSRF chips were produced with resonance peaks that are adjustable from visible region to near-infrared region by simply increasing the periods of sine currents in a programmed electrochemical etching method. A regression analysis revealed a perfect linear correlation between the resonant peak wavelength and the period of etching current. By coupling the sine currents with several different periods, C-PSRFs were produced with defined multiple resonance peaks located at desired positions. A scanning electron microscope and a microfiber spectrophotometer were employed to analyze their physical structure and feature spectra, respectively. The sensing properties of C-PSRFs were investigated in an ethanol vapor, where the red shifts of the C-PSRF peaks had a good linear relationship with a certain concentration of ethanol vapor. As the concentration increased, the slope of the regression line also increased. The C-PSRF sensors indicated the high sensitivity, quick response, perfect durability, reproducibility, and versatility in other organic gas sensing.
A low-grade chondrosarcoma presenting as an unusual cervical mass in the hyoid bone: a case report
Authors: Tachino Hirohiko , Fushiki Hiroaki , Ishida Masayuki , Watanabe Yukio
Published: January 2012

Introduction

A chondrosarcoma originating from the hyoid bone is very rare. Here, we describe a case of low-grade chondrosarcoma of hyoid origin and discuss its preoperative imaging features, including those on positron emission tomography-computed tomography, and its recurrence rate.

Case presentation

A 42-year-old Japanese man noticed a mass in the right submandibular region of his neck. A hard 3.0 × 2.8 cm tumor was noted on the right side of his hyoid bone. The mass was immobile and moved with deglutition.

Conclusion

Even though radiographic studies, including positron emission tomography-computed tomography, were inconclusive, the cartilaginous tumor was surgically removed en bloc, and the tumor was diagnosed based on the results of pathological investigations. Close follow-up is recommended in such cases due to the potential for recurrences, because local recurrence occurred in 50% of the reported cases of grade one chondrosarcomas.
Primary follicular lymphoma of the epididymis positive for t(14;18)(q32;q21)/IGH- BCL2 and negative for BCL2 protein expression: a case report
Authors: Tralongo Vincenzo , Becchina Gaspare , Nagar Claudia , Ottoveggio Gabriella , Mason Silvia , Seno Barbara , Sessa Francesca , Frattini Milo , Genovese Francesco
Published: January 2012

Introduction

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) can involve the paratesticular organs as the primary disease, as primary testicular lymphoma that secondarily involves the paratesticular structures, as the initial site of presentation of occult nodal disease or as the result of disease dissemination. Primary follicular lymphoma of the epididymis in an adult is extremely rare. Little is known about primary adult paratesticular/epididimal lymphomas.

Case presentation

We report a rare case of primary follicular non-Hodgkin lymphoma of the epididymis in a 90-year-old Caucasian man who presented with a left scrotal mass. Bone marrow biopsy was negative and computed tomography of the total body revealed no evidence of extratesticular involvement. Macroscopically, the epididymis was replaced completely by a uniform mass. Histologic studies revealed a dense lymphoid infiltrate predominantly composed of centrocytes with admixed centroblasts. Immunohistochemical analyses demonstrated that neoplastic cells strongly expressed CD45RB, CD20, CD79a, bcl-6 and CD10; bcl-2 immunostaining was negative. Molecular studies showed the presence of the monoclonal IgH gene rearrangement and the IgH/BCL2 rearrangement. The lymphoma was classified as follicular lymphoma, low grade, grade 1-2. The patient subsequently underwent radical orchiectomy, did not receive chemotherapy and post-operative follow-up showed absence of disease recurrence.

Conclusions

The case of primary follicular lymphoma of epididymis, reported here, is considered a very rare event. It is characterized by clinically indolent localized disease, a good clinical outcome, lack of expression of BCL2 protein and the presence of the t(14;18)(q32;q21)/IGH-BCL2. Even if it is a single case, the primary follicular lymphoma epididymis with t(14;18) could represent either a variant of the previously reported t(14;18)-negative primary paratesticular follicular lymphoma or a distinct biological entity. To report additional cases in the future would be helpful in resolving this question.
The association of Toll-like receptor 4 gene polymorphisms with the development of emphysema in Japanese subjects: a case control study
Authors: Ito Michiko , Hanaoka Masayuki , Droma Yunden , Kobayashi Nobumitsu , Yasuo Masanori , Kitaguchi Yoshiaki , Horiuchi Toshimichi , Ikegawa Kayoko , Katsuyama Yoshihiko , Kubo Keishi , Ota Masao
Published: January 2012

Background

The principal role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) is the induction of immune responses to lipopolysaccharides. Previously, mice deficient in the TLR4 gene exhibited up-regulation of the NADPH oxidase system in the lungs. This resulted in increased oxidant generation and elastolytic activity, which led to pulmonary emphysema. It was suggested that TLR4 might maintain constitutive lung integrity by modulating oxidant generation. We investigated whether single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TLR4 gene were associated with the emphysema phenotype in Japanese subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Results

Seven SNPs in the TLR4 gene (rs10759930, rs1927914, rs12377632, rs2149356, rs11536889, rs7037117, and rs7045953) were genotyped with allelic discrimination assays. The frequencies of SNPs were compared between 106 patients with the emphysema phenotype of COPD and 137 healthy smokers. We found that the positivity of the individuals with the major G allele of rs11536889 was significantly less in the emphysema group than the control group (p = 0.019). The frequencies of the minor C allele and the distribution of the CC genotype as well as the frequency of the major haplotype that carried the minor C allele of rs11536889 were all significantly higher in the emphysema group than the control group (p = 0.0083, 0.019, and 0.004, respectively). Furthermore, the strength of the association of the CC genotype with the emphysema phenotype was in an odds ratio of 2.60 with 95% confidence intervals from 1.17 to 5.78. However, these significances were not apparent after adjust for age and smoking history by logistic regression. No associations were observed between the rs11536889 and the low attenuation area score, the forced expiratory volume, and the carbon monoxide diffusion capacity in the emphysema group.

Conclusions

The minor C allele of the rs11536889 SNP in the TLR4 gene is likely associated with the risk of developing emphysema in the Japanese population.
Tibolone increases bone mineral density but also relapse in breast cancer survivors: LIBERATE trial bone substudy
Authors: Bundred Nigel J , Kenemans Peter , Yip Cheng Har , Beckmann Matthias W , Foidart Jean-Michel , Sismondi Piero , Schoultz Bo von , Vassilopoulou-Sellin Rena , Galta Rachid El , Lieshout Eugenie Van , Mol-Arts Mirjam , Planellas Juan , Kubista Ernst
Published: January 2012

Introduction

The Livial Intervention Following Breast Cancer: Efficacy, Recurrence and Tolerability Endpoints (LIBERATE: Clinical http://Trials.gov number NCT00408863), a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial that demonstrated that tibolone (Livial), a tissue-selective hormone-replacement therapy (HRT), increased breast cancer (BC) recurrence HR 1.40 (95% CI, 1.14 to 1.70; P = 0.001). A subgroup of women was entered into a study of bone mineral density (BMD).

Methods

Women with surgically excised primary BC (T1-3, N0-2, M-0) within the last 5 years, complaining of vasomotor symptoms, were assigned to tibolone, 2.5 mg daily, or placebo treatment for a maximum of 5 years. The BMD substudy enrolled 763 patients, using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanning at baseline and at 2 years.

Results

In the bone substudy, 699 of 763 women were eligible (345 allocated to tibolone, and 354, to placebo). After undergoing DXA scans, 300 (43%) women had normal BMD; 317 (45%), osteopenia; and 82 (11.7%), osteoporosis. Low body-mass index (P < 0.001), Asian race (P < 0.001), and late age at menarche (P < 0.04) predicted low bone mass at baseline. Tibolone increased BMD by 3.2% at the lumbar spine and 2.9% at the hip compared with placebo (both P < 0.001). The majority of fractures (55%) occurred in osteopenic patients. Women with normal BMD had increased recurrence with tibolone, 22 (15.6%) of 141 compared with placebo, 11 (6.9%) of 159 (P = 0.016), whereas no increased BC recurrence was seen in women with low BMD; 15 (7.4%) of 204 taking tibolone versus 13 (6.7%) of 195 taking placebo.

Conclusions

Tibolone is contraindicated after BC treatment, as it increases BMD and BC recurrence. Risk of BC recurrence was elevated in BC women with normal BMD (compared with low) who took tibolone.
MicroRNA let-7a suppresses breast cancer cell migration and invasion through downregulation of C-C chemokine receptor type 7
Authors: Kim Seok-Jun , Shin Ji-Young , Lee Kang-Duck , Bae Young-Ki , Sung Ki Woong , Nam Seok Jin , Chun Kyung-Hee
Published: January 2012

Introduction

C-C chemokine receptor type 7 (CCR7) plays an important role in chemotactic and metastatic responses in various cancers, including breast cancer. In the present study, the authors demonstrated that microRNA (miRNA) let-7a downregulates CCR7 expression and directly influences the migration and invasion of breast cancer cells.

Methods

The expression of CCR7, its ligand CCL21, and let-7a was detected in breast cancer cell lines and in breast cancer patient tissues. Synthetic let-7a and an inhibitor of let-7a were transfected into MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 breast cancer cells, respectively, and cell proliferation, cell migration, and invasion assays were performed. To confirm the fact that 3'UTR of CCR7 is a direct target of let-7a, a luciferase assay for the reporter gene expressing the let-7a binding sites of CCR7 3'UTR was used. An in vivo invasion animal model system using transparent zebrafish embryos was also established to determine the let-7a effect on breast cancer cell invasion.

Results

First, a higher expression of both CCR7 and CCL21 in malignant tissues than in their normal counterparts from breast cancer patients was observed. In addition, a reverse correlation in the expression of CCR7 and let-7a in breast cancer cell lines and breast cancer patient tissues was detected. Synthetic let-7a decreased breast cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, as well as CCR7 protein expression in MDA-MB-231 cells. The let-7a inhibitor reversed the let-7a effects on the MCF-7 cells. The 3'UTR of CCR7 was confirmed as a direct target of let-7a by using the luciferase assay for the reporter gene expressing let-7a CCR7 3'UTR binding sites. Notably, when analyzing in vivo invasion, MDA-MB 231 cells after synthetic let-7a transfection were unable to invade the vessels in zebrafish embryos.

Conclusions

The results from the present study suggest that targeting of CCL21-CCR7 signaling is a valid approach for breast cancer therapy and that let-7a directly binds to the 3'UTR of CCR7 and blocks its protein expression, thereby suppressing migration and invasion of human breast cancer cells. Furthermore, the present study underscores the therapeutic potential of let-7a as an antitumor and antimetastatic manager in breast cancer patients.
Recommendations for Clinical Trials of Off-Label Drugs Used to Treat Advanced-Stage Cancer
Authors: Mullins C. Daniel , Montgomery Russ , Abernethy Amy P. , Hussain Arif , Pearson Steven D. , Tunis Sean
Published: January 2012

Purpose

To provide recommendations to trialists and sponsors that guide the design and implementation of prospective postapproval clinical trials for oncology drugs used outside US Food and Drug Administration–labeled indications for treatment of late-stage cancers.

Methods

A meeting was hosted by the Center for Medical Technology Policy in Baltimore, MD, on November 12, 2009. Discussions during the meeting and key informant interviews were conducted before and after this stakeholder meeting. Peer review by multidisciplinary stakeholders was followed by a public comment period. Input was received from patient advocacy groups, medical oncologists, pharmaceutical companies, the US Food and Drug Administration, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the National Cancer Institute, foreign government agencies involved in health technology assessment, public and private payers, drug compendia, clinical research entities, statisticians, academics, and the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

Results

To address the needs of patients and their clinical providers, compendia, payers, and policy makers, recommendations are proposed to guide the design of future prospective trials for off-label use of oncology drugs across four areas: trial design and data analysis, patient and site recruitment, comparators, and outcomes.

Conclusion

The US Food and Drug Administration provides guidance to the pharmaceutical industry and others designing randomized clinical trials for regulatory approval. However, a gap exists for postregulatory decision makers, including patients, prescribers, and payers, because regulatory trials do not answer the questions most relevant to them. Therefore, guidance is needed for trials performed in the postapproval environment for these postapproval decision makers.
Effectiveness of Bevacizumab With First-Line Combination Chemotherapy for Medicare Patients With Stage IV Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Meyerhardt Jeffrey A. , Li Ling , Sanoff Hanna K. , Carpenter William , Schrag Deborah
Published: January 2012

Purpose

Clinical trials have shown that adding bevacizumab to cytotoxic chemotherapy improves survival for patients with colorectal cancer, although its effectiveness in the Medicare population is uncertain.

Patients and Methods

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) -Medicare linked database, we identified 2,526 patients with stage IV colorectal cancer diagnosed between 2002 and 2007 who received first-line combination chemotherapy with a fluoropyrimidine and either irinotecan (33%) or oxaliplatin (67%). Thirty-six percent of patients received bevacizumab with first-line therapy. The primary outcome was overall survival. Secondary outcomes were bevacizumab-associated toxicities, including the incidence of stroke, myocardial infarction, and GI perforation.

Results

In the primary cohort inclusive of patients diagnosed between 2002 and 2007, bevacizumab with combination chemotherapy was associated with improved overall survival (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 0.85; 95% CI, 0.78 to 0.93), although the effect was more modest when restricted to years 2004 to 2007 (HR, 0.93; 95% CI, 0.84 to 1.02). The observed survival advantage of bevacizumab was more apparent with irinotecan-based chemotherapy (HR, 0.80; 95% CI, 0.66 to 0.97) than with oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy (HR, 0.96; 95% CI, 0.86 to 1.07). Combination chemotherapy with bevacizumab, versus combination chemotherapy without bevacizumab, was associated with increased risk of stroke (4.9% v 2.5%, respectively; P < .01) and GI perforation (2.3% v 1.0%, respectively; P < .01). Cardiac events and venous thrombosis were not increased with bevacizumab.

Conclusion

The addition of bevacizumab to cytotoxic combination chemotherapy was associated with small improvement in overall survival as well as increased risk of stroke and perforation, but not cardiac events, among Medicare beneficiaries with stage IV colorectal cancer.
Prevalence of Self-Reported Memory Problems in Adult Cancer Survivors: A National Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Jean-Pierre Pascal , Winters Paul C. , Ahles Tim A. , Antoni Michael , Armstrong F. Daniel , Penedo Frank , Lipshultz Steven E. , Miller Tracie L. , Fiscella Kevin
Published: January 2012

Cancer-related cognitive dysfunction remains after controlling for variables such as socioeconomic and racial/ethnic status; it should be more systematically assessed and treated among patients and survivors.
Hemoglobin Trends and Anemia Treatment Resulting From Concomitant Chemotherapy in Community Oncology Clinics
Authors: Feinberg Bruce A. , Bruno Amanda S. , Haislip Sally , Gilmore James , Jain Gagan , Whyte Joanna L.
Published: January 2012

Adoption of the National Coverage Determination for ESA agents has resulted in decreased use of ESAs and increased use of transfusions as well as delays in anemia treatment and lower mean Hb levels at time of anemia treatment.
Exposure to and Intention to Discuss Cancer-Related Internet Information Among Patients With Breast Cancer
Authors: Bylund Carma L. , D'Agostino Thomas A. , Ostroff Jamie , Heerdt Alexandra , Li Yuelin , Dickler Maura
Published: January 2012

An assessment of the frequency with which patients with breast cancer attend physician visits having recently read and intending to discuss cancer-related information from the Internet.
Cancer Survivorship Care Plans: What Can Be Learned From Hospital Discharge Summaries?
Authors: Nekhlyudov Larissa , Schnipper Jeffrey L.
Published: January 2012

Exploration of potential lessons from hospital discharge summaries, which may be used to facilitate development, implementation, and testing of survivorship care plans.
Variation and Consternation: Access to Unfunded Cancer Drugs in Canada
Authors: Berry Scott R. , Evans William K. , Strevel Elizabeth L. , Bell Chaim M.
Published: January 2012

Access to effective but unfunded cancer drugs varies across Canada. Policymakers must consider whether this is consistent with articulated values of the system and whether currently planned processes address these inconsistencies.
A Model to Estimate Human Resource Needs for the Treatment of Outpatients With Cancer
Authors: Fasola Gianpiero , Aprile Giuseppe , Aita Marianna
Published: January 2012

Although personnel costs absorb a significant share of total health care expenditures, staff utilization is an often-neglected cost in cancer care; scarce literature exists addressing this issue.
2011 Focused Update of 2009 American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline Update on Chemotherapy for Stage IV Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Azzoli Christopher G. , Temin Sarah , Giaccone Giuseppe
Published: January 2012

ASCO produced the 2011 Focused Update based on phase III randomized clinical trials published on maintenance chemotherapy, addressing one question from the 2009 Guideline Update on chemotherapy for stage IV NSCLC: what is the optimal duration of first-line chemotherapy for stage IV NSCLC?
Engaging Referring Physicians in the Clinical Trial Process
Authors: Baer Allison R. , Michaels Margo , Good Marjorie J. , Schapira Lidia
Published: January 2012

By building relationships with referring physicians and educating them about the clinical trial process, oncologists can help increase trial accrual among patients with cancer.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors-α and -γ, and cAMP-Mediated Pathways, Control Retinol-Binding Protein-4 Gene Expression in Brown Adipose Tissue
Authors: Rosell Meritxell , Hondares Elayne , Iwamoto Sadahiko , Gonzalez Frank J. , Wabitsch Martin , Staels Bart , Olmos Yolanda , Monsalve Maria , Giralt Marta , Iglesias Roser , Villarroya Francesc
Published: January 2012

Retinol binding protein-4 (RBP4) is a serum protein involved in the transport of vitamin A. It is known to be produced by the liver and white adipose tissue. RBP4 release by white fat has been proposed to induce insulin resistance. We analyzed the regulation and production of RBP4 in brown adipose tissue. RBP4 gene expression is induced in brown fat from mice exposed to cold or treated with peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) agonists. In brown adipocytes in culture, norepinephrine, cAMP, and activators of PPARγ and PPARα induced RBP4 gene expression and RBP4 protein release. The induction of RBP4 gene expression by norepinephrine required intact PPAR-dependent pathways, as evidenced by impaired response of the RBP4 gene expression to norepinephrine in PPARα-null brown adipocytes or in the presence of inhibitors of PPARγ and PPARα. PPARγ and norepinephrine can also induce the RBP4 gene in white adipocytes, and overexpression of PPARα confers regulation by this PPAR subtype to white adipocytes. The RBP4 gene promoter transcription is activated by cAMP, PPARα, and PPARγ. This is mediated by a PPAR-responsive element capable of binding PPARα and PPARγ and required also for activation by cAMP. The induction of the RBP4 gene expression by norepinephrine in brown adipocytes is protein synthesis dependent and requires PPARγ-coactivator-1-α, which acts as a norepinephine-induced coactivator of PPAR on the RBP4 gene. We conclude that PPARγ- and PPARα-mediated signaling controls RBP4 gene expression and releases in brown adipose tissue, and thermogenic activation induces RBP4 gene expression in brown fat through mechanisms involving PPARγ-coactivator-1-α coactivation of PPAR signaling.
Angiotensin II-Dependent Transcriptional Activation of Human Steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein Gene by a 25-kDa cAMP-Responsive Element Modulator Protein Isoform and Yin Yang 1
Authors: Meier Renate K. , Clark Barbara J.
Published: January 2012

Transcriptional activation of the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR) gene is a critical component in the angiotensin II (Ang II)-dependent increase in aldosterone biosynthesis in the adrenal gland. The purpose of this study was to define the molecular mechanisms that mediate the Ang II-dependent increase in STARD1 gene (STAR) expression in H295R human adrenocortical cells. Mutational analysis of the STAR proximal promoter revealed that a nonconsensus cAMP-responsive element located at −78 bp relative to the transcription start site (−78CRE) is required for the Ang II-stimulated STAR reporter gene activity. DNA immunoaffinity chromatography identified a 25-kDa cAMP-responsive element modulator isoform and Yin Yang 1 (YY1) as −78CRE DNA-binding proteins, and Ang II treatment of H295R cells increased expression of that 25-kDa CREM isoform. Small interfering RNA silencing of CREM and YY1 attenuated the Ang II-dependent increases in STAR reporter gene activity and STAR mRNA levels. Conversely, overexpression of CREM and YY1 in COS-1 cells resulted in transactivation of STAR reporter gene activity. Chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis demonstrated recruitment of CREM and YY1 to the STAR promoter along with increased association of the coactivator cAMP response element-binding protein-binding protein (CBP) and increased phosphorylated RNA polymerase II after Ang II treatment. Together our data reveal that the Ang II-stimulated increase in STAR expression in H295R cells requires 25 kDa CREM and YY1. The recruitment of these transcription factors to the STAR proximal promoter results in association of CBP and activation of RNA polymerase II leading to increased STAR transcription.
Minireview: Epigenetic Programming of Diabetes and Obesity: Animal Models
Authors: Seki Yoshinori , Williams Lyda , Vuguin Patricia M. , Charron Maureen J.
Published: January 2012

A growing body of evidence suggests that the intrauterine (IU) environment has a significant and lasting effect on the long-term health of the growing fetus and the development of metabolic disease in later life as put forth in the fetal origins of disease hypothesis. Metabolic diseases have been associated with alterations in the epigenome that occur without changes in the DNA sequence, such as cytosine methylation of DNA, histone posttranslational modifications, and micro-RNA. Animal models of epigenetic modifications secondary to an altered IU milieu are an invaluable tool to study the mechanisms that determine the development of metabolic diseases, such as diabetes and obesity. Rodent and nonlitter bearing animals are good models for the study of disease, because they have similar embryology, anatomy, and physiology to humans. Thus, it is feasible to monitor and modify the IU environment of animal models in order to gain insight into the molecular basis of human metabolic disease pathogenesis. In this review, the database of PubMed was searched for articles published between 1999 and 2011. Key words included epigenetic modifications, IU growth retardation, small for gestational age, animal models, metabolic disease, and obesity. The inclusion criteria used to select studies included animal models of epigenetic modifications during fetal and neonatal development associated with adult metabolic syndrome. Experimental manipulations included: changes in the nutritional status of the pregnant female (calorie-restricted, high-fat, or low-protein diets during pregnancy), as well as the father; interference with placenta function, or uterine blood flow, environmental toxin exposure during pregnancy, as well as dietary modifications during the neonatal (lactation) as well as pubertal period. This review article is focused solely on studies in animal models that demonstrate epigenetic changes that are correlated with manifestation of metabolic disease, including diabetes and/or obesity.
Microdiscectomy Improves Pain-Associated Depression, Somatic Anxiety, and Mental Well-Being in Patients With Herniated Lumbar Disc
Authors: Lebow Richard , Parker Scott L. , Adogwa Owoicho , Reig Adam , Cheng Joseph , Bydon Ali , McGirt Matthew J.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

Emotional distress and depression are common psychological disturbances associated with low-back and leg pain. The effects of lumbar discectomy on pain, disability, and physical quality of life are well described. The effects of discectomy on emotional distress and mental well-being are less well understood.

OBJECTIVE:

To assess the effect of microdiscectomy on depression, somatization, and mental well-being in patients with herniated lumbar discs.

METHODS:

Patients undergoing surgical discectomy for single-level, herniated lumbar disc were prospectively evaluated preoperatively, and at 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. Back and leg pain, depression, somatic perception, and mental well-being were assessed.

RESULTS:

One hundred patients were enrolled. All were available for 1-year follow-up. Preoperatively, the visual analog scale for low-back pain (BP-VAS), visual analog scale for leg pain (LP-VAS), Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale (ZUNG), Modified Somatic Perception Questionnaire (MSPQ), and Medical Outcomes Short Form-36 mental component summary scale (SF-36-MCS) were 6.3 ± 2.5, 6.3 ± 2.5, 19 ± 11, 9 ± 7, and 4 ± 14. BP-VAS and LP-VAS significantly improved by 6 weeks. Significant improvement in SF-36-MCS was observed by 6 weeks postoperatively, improvement in MSPQ score was observed 3 months postoperatively, and improvement in the ZUNG depression score was observed 12 months postoperatively. No statistical difference occurred during the remainder of follow-up for any outcome measured once improvement reached statistical significance. Eighteen patients were somatized preoperatively, 67% of which were nonsomatized 1 year postoperatively. Ten patients were clinically depressed preoperatively, 70% of which were nondepressed 1 year postoperatively. Improvement in SF-36-MCS, ZUNG, and MSPQ correlated (P < .001) with improvement in BP-VAS and LP-VAS.

CONCLUSION:

The majority of patients somatized or depressed preoperatively returned to good mental well-being postoperatively. Improvement in pain and overall mental well-being was seen immediately after discectomy. Improvement in somatic anxiety and depression occurred months later. Microdiscectomy significantly improves pain-associated depression, somatic anxiety, and mental well-being in patients with herniated lumbar disc.
Case Article—KEY Electronics—Sourcing and Warehouse Analysis
Authors: Kraft Tim , Chung Yenho T. , Erhun Feryal
Published: January 2012

KEY Electronics is a consumer electronics retailer that generated $1.4 billion in total revenue in 2008. KEY has a limited retail presence in Mexico, which it would like to expand from 30 stores in 2009 to 70 by year-end 2012. As part of its growth strategy, KEY must (1) improve its current sourcing of products for Mexico and (2) revamp its existing warehouse operations. The KEY Electronics case introduces students to a practical inventory modeling scenario with real-life data, where solutions are not solely based on minimum cost but also qualitative factors. By emphasizing a holistic modeling approach, the case demonstrates the interdependencies between sourcing decisions and facility requirements. KEY Electronics can be taught as an in-class discussion, a case write-up, or a course project.

Case Teaching Note: Interested Instructors please see the Instructor Materials page for access to the restricted materials. To maintain the integrity and usefulness of cases published in ITE, unapproved distribution of the case teaching notes and other restricted materials to any other party is prohibited.
Examining the state of adult social care research 1990-2001: a systematic synthesis of research methods and quality
Authors: Reilly Siobhan , Xie Chengqiu , Jacobs Sally , Challis David
Published: January 2012

This article reports on a systematic synthesis of the research methods and quality of peerreviewed empirical research relating to adult social care services (1990-2001). The range of research questions, research designs and methodological quality varied within and across four service user groups. Factors associated with variation in methodological quality included the type of research question, strategies and designs adopted, service user group, number of authors, unit of analysis and year of publication. The findings demonstrated a dearth of rigorous social care evaluations in the UK. These findings contribute to current initiatives aimed at improving the standard of health and social care research.
Assessing research and involving people using health and social care services: addressing the tensions
Authors: Postle Karen , Beresford Peter , Hardy Sally
Published: January 2012

In the UK context, the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) has been developed as a means of evaluating research performance. This reflects a growing international interest in such evaluation. This article explores emerging tensions between such external review processes and increasing interest in, and efforts to conduct, participatory and emancipatory research in fields such as nursing and social work. We argue that the pressure from such demands, and the resulting outcomes, risk undermining such research and efforts to develop more equal research relationships that can address power imbalances with people who use services. The article examines prevalent academic demands arising from responses to successive RAEs and briefly explores the rationale for participatory and emancipatory research approaches.
Cellular Localization and Biochemical Analysis of Mammalian CDC50A, a Glycosylated β-subunit for P4 ATPases
Authors: Folmer Dineke E. , Mok Kam S. , de Wee Sebastiaan W. , Duijst Suzanne , Hiralall Johan K. , Seppen Jurgen , Oude Elferink Ronald P. J. , Paulusma Coen C.
Published: January 2012

CDC50 proteins are β-subunits for P4 ATPases, which upon heterodimerization form a functional phospholipid translocation complex. Emerging evidence in mouse models and men links mutations in P4 ATPase genes with human disease. This study analyzed the tissue distribution and cellular localization of CDC50A, the most abundant and ubiquitously expressed CDC50 homologue in the mouse. The authors have raised antibodies that detect mouse and human CDC50A and studied CDC50A localization and glycosylation status in mouse liver cells. CDC50A is a terminal-glycosylated glycoprotein and is expressed in hepatocytes and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, where it resides in detergent-resistant membranes. In pancreas and stomach, CDC50A localized to secretory vesicles, whereas in the kidney, CDC50A localized to the apical region of proximal convoluted tubules of the cortex. In WIF-B9 cells, CDC50A partially costains with the trans-Golgi network. Data suggest that CDC50A is present as a fully glycosylated protein in vivo, which presumes interaction with distinct P4 ATPases.
Man with a plan: Masculinity and DIY house building in post-war Australia
Authors: CARTER NANETTE
Published: January 2012

In the period of reconstruction that followed World War II, Australians experienced a severe housing shortage. The Commonwealth Government's own wartime estimate was that there would be a shortage of over 300,000 dwellings in 1947. While it collaborated with state governments to build
public housing, chronic shortages of materials, of labour and an increasing population, meant that the demand could not be met. As a result, many Australians found that the only way they would get a home was to build it themselves - up to 30 per cent of all new houses in the 1950s were owner
built.

DIY home construction provided a tangible representation of a husband and father's capacity to provide shelter. While women became involved in planning, sourcing materials, labouring and project-management, men undertook most of the heavy construction. At the same time, a significant
shift occurred in the way manual labour around the house was viewed. DIY activity became seen as a pleasant and meaningful contribution to family life and part of the solution to the potential feminization of the suburban father.

The values associated with DIY and the practices of a new
kind of suburban masculinity were promoted in popular taste-making publications such as Australian Home Beautiful, Australian House and Garden, and ephemera published by the manufacturers of building materials, tools and other commodities. This article uses these sources and interviews with
people, most of who were traced from articles about their DIY homes, in local magazines.
Whose body? Auteurism, feminism and horror in Hostel Part II and Jennifer’s Body
Authors: KOOYMAN BEN
Published: January 2012

The gender politics of horror cinema are ambiguous and ideologically complex. In 2007, film-maker Eli Roth generated considerable debate when he claimed that his film Hostel Part II (2007) was a feminist horror film. More recently, awardwinning screenwriter Diablo Cody generated a similar
uproar when she likewise claimed that her film Jennifer's Body (Kusama 2009) was feminist. In both cases, the attacks directed at Roth and Cody stemmed as much from animosity towards their very public personas as from their films' content. These attacks also stemmed partly from long-standing
prejudices against horror films as vehicles for violently reinforcing patriarchy, and from the fact that these film-makers, in speaking about feminism, were speaking on behalf of a generalized, unified and coherent entity that most feminists would argue does not actually exist. This article
analyses the claims made by Roth and Cody and the outcry generated by these claims. Moreover, this article considers whether the contemporary horror film can legitimately serve as a vehicle for forging feminist statements, given both the nature of the horror film and the many competing and
contradictory ideas of what constitutes feminism.
Utopia lost? The significance of the shopping mall in American culture and the effects of its decline on the American public
Authors: SCHAROUN LISA
Published: January 2012

For the last 50 years, the ubiquitous shopping mall has been a staple of everyday American life. Victor Gruen, credited with creating the blueprint for the contemporary shopping mall, envisioned the mall as 'the nucleus of a utopian experiment', a space where 'shoppers will be so bedazzled
by a store's surroundings that they will be drawn - unconsciously, continually to shop in a master- planned, mixed-use community'. According to Ellen Dunham-Jones, '20 percent of the 2,000 largest malls in the United States are failing'. As a result of oversaturation, the current economic
situation and changing shopping habits, many of Gruen's 'utopian experiments' are being replaced with 'Big Box' stores such as Target and Walmart, spaces that offer none of the communal aspects of Gruen's retail vision. Although the decline of the American shopping mall may be seen as a triumph
to many, one cannot discredit the cultural importance of the shopping mall and the imprint that it has left on the average American consumer. This article explores the shopping mall as a symbolic construct and reflects on how its decline is affecting the American public.
Waves of Fosters, Crocodiles and Ockers: Representations of Australia and Australians in American popular culture
Authors: O’REILLY NATHANAEL
Published: January 2012

This article presents a broad overview of the Australian presence in American popular culture since 1995, focusing on a variety of cultural productions, including television, film, restaurants, beer advertisements, clothing and music. I argue that Australia and Australians are depicted
in American popular culture in an exaggerated, exoticized manner. The representations of Australia and Australians in American popular culture usually consist of exaggerated stereotypes that are constructed in order to serve commercial interests, and thus the representations serve to perpetuate
stereotypes, such as the Ocker image that is so dominant in American popular culture, rather than to increase knowledge of Australia and Australians within the United States.
La Toilette d'une Femme (2010)
Authors: WALKER LYNDAL
Published: January 2012

'La Toilette d'une Femme' is a series I produced in 2010 in which I photographed women getting dressed at their homes. The inspiration for the work is paintings from the 18th and 19th century that represented women dressing. I have reinvigorated this genre by creating portraits of women
for whom getting dressed is an important ritual, creative process and statement of their identity.

In some images I appear in the reflection of the mirror. This celebrates the shared ritual of dressing with other women. It also draws attention to the construction of the photographic image,
by the photographer and the relationship between model and photographer. Rather than representing a finished look, 'La Toilette d'une Femme' continues my interest in transition and time by representing my subjects in the process of creating a look for the outside world.

As the women compose
themselves in the mirror, the expression on their faces and their body language speak variously of joy, anxiety and satisfaction. In a world where we are constantly exposed to images of fashion and semi-naked women, these photographs reveal the reality of women's experience of clothing.
Work-life mobility and stability: The employment histories of immigrant workers at a unionized Toronto hotel
Authors: WATT PAUL
Published: January 2012

This article examines the employment histories and future prospects of immigrants employed in main-grade and supervisory positions at a unionized hotel in Toronto. Using interview and observational data, the article examines the employment careers and experiences of the hotel's multiethnic
workforce, who were disproportionately located in back-of-house departments. For most, their working lives in Toronto represented downward social mobility relative to their class positions in their countries of origin. This downward mobility was connected to the downgrading of their 'institutionalized
cultural capital' since their foreign qualifications and work experience were generally considered invalid by Toronto employers. However, within the city's low-wage service and manufacturing sectors where immigrants are clustered, the workers regarded unionized hotel employment as offering
relatively advantageous earnings, benefits and security. Unlike much of the international hotel industry sector, employment at the Toronto hotel was in many ways remarkably stable as seen in the longevity of job tenure. The factors leading to such stability are explored including low promotion
prospects coupled with incremental progression via the union-negotiated seniority system. The article illustrates the point made by Gray that lower-end service jobs, such as found in hotels, are not necessarily inherently 'bad' (or 'good') in themselves, but that they are constructed as such
via institutional arrangements including the role played by trade unions.
Hospitality is society
Authors: BELL DAVID
Published: January 2012

This article focuses on two aspects of critical hospitality studies, as outlined by the editors of Hospitality & Society – hospitality work and hospitable spaces. The former is explored via a recent UK reality television series, Michel Roux's Service, in which a group of young
people were trained in front-of-house service work. Here the discussion is framed by accounts of 'new work' and aesthetic labour. Hospitable spaces are discussed in terms of interpersonal encounters in public space, informed by Erving Goffman's symbolic interactionist perspective. The aim
of the article is to examine these two sites of hospitality conceptually, in order to think about the different 'work' that hospitality performs, in both formal and informal settings. In so doing, the article draws on interactionist, relational and affective perspectives to explore some of
the myriad ways in which hospitality is society.
At home with Elvis: Home hosting at the Parkes Elvis Festival
Authors: LI JEN , CONNELL JOHN
Published: January 2012

Successful festivals generate income for small towns. However, growing visitor numbers put stresses on local accommodation. Short-duration homestays have enabled the small Australian country town of Parkes to accommodate locally many more visitors at the annual Elvis Festival. A third
of formal accommodation is home hosted. Hosts are both short-term friends and entrepreneurs. Visitor income remains in town, and host and visitors strengthen their links with the Festival. Event home hosting shares the benefits experienced in long-term home hosting, income and social diversity,
and fewer disadvantages – disruption of home life and longer-term commitment. The home hosting model has subsequently spread in New South Wales.
Playing the tyrant away: Creative academic resistance to dictatorship in Malawi
Authors: Kerr David
Published: January 2012

The author explains his insertion into Malawi's human rights and cultural history. In its 30 year rule from 1964 to 1994 the Malawi Congress Party regime passed a maze of anti-democratic legislation, which, backed by brutal police and paramilitary youth organisations, prevented any attempts at creation of an opposition. The demolition of free speech in public discourse, including the media, created a default space for young intellectuals to use the metaphorical power of literature and theatre to critique the political establishment. Artists found innovative ways of evading the laws and activities associated with the Malawi Censorship Board, and not a few were arrested for their activities. The three year seven month detention of poet, Jack Mapanje from 1987 to 1991 focused world attention on the struggle by Malawian democracy activists for political liberation. This culminated in the establishment of multi-party democracy in 1991–1994, which created the conditions for a more liberated, but still contested discursive field. The paper concludes with a brief analysis of this process, including a comparison with twenty-first century cultural and social struggles for democracy.
Reflections on a workshop on popular education, direct action and the arts in tackling environmental justice struggles, held at the World Education Forum in Palestine, October 2010
Authors: Scandrett Eurig , Glass Dan , Nada-Rajah Rebecca
Published: January 2012

This case study describes a piece of emersion theatre conducted during a workshop at the World Education Forum in Ramallah, Palestine in 2010. The piece explores the relationship between three different approaches to political change: popular education; direct action and art – using the scenario of a campaign against environmental pollution. The workshop was designed to focus critically on the tensions between the three approaches with a view to understand better their contributions to radical social change. The case study describes the theoretical background as well as the insights from the workshop.
All Things Considered? the Role of Choice Set Formation in Diversification
Authors: Salisbury Linda Court , Feinberg Fred M.
Published: January 2012

The diversification effect, a tendency toward greater variety as multiple choices are made simultaneously, in advance of consumption, is a robust and important phenomenon. Researchers have typically explained the diversification effect in terms of differences in the process by which people select items from among those available. This precludes the possibility that the locus of the effect lies in people's choice sets themselves—that is, how people decide which options to consider when making choices. The authors examine the effects of set formation using an experimental choice sequence task and conjoined stochastic model of set formation and conditional choice. The findings demonstrate that set formation plays a critical role in diversification: Previously chosen options are indeed discounted, but only for simultaneous choices and only in the set formation portion of the model. Furthermore, the expected number of choice set items is substantially greater in multiple- versus single- item choice. Specifically, when consumers choose simultaneously choice set sizes appear relatively larger overall, but the previously chosen item is less likely to be in a person's (latent) choice set. These findings cannot be attributed to alternative patterns of covariation, including latent error correlations; to temporal stochastic inflation; or to unobserved heterogeneity.