bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motivational Interviewing Early After Acute Stroke
Authors: Watkins Caroline L. , Auton Malcolm F. , Deans Carol F. , Dickinson Hazel A. , Jack Cathy I.A. , Lightbody C. Elizabeth , Sutton Christopher J. , van den Broek Martin D. , Leathley Michael J.
Published: February 2007

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to determine whether motivational interviewing, a patient-centered counseling technique, can benefit patients’ mood 3 months after stroke.

Methods—

A single-center, open, randomized, controlled trial was conducted at a single hospital with a stroke unit. Subjects consisted of 411 consecutive patients on the stroke register who were over 18 years of age and who did not have severe cognitive and communication problems that would prevent them from taking part in an interview; were not known to be moving out of the area after discharge; and were not already receiving psychiatric or clinical psychology intervention. All patients received usual stroke care. Patients in the intervention group received 4 individual, weekly sessions of motivational interviewing with a trained therapist in addition to usual stroke care. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with normal mood at 3 months poststroke measured by the 28-item General Health Questionnaire (normal, <5; low ≥5) using a mailed questionnaire.

Results—

Eighty-one of 207 (39.1%) patients in the control group and 100 of 204 (49.0%) patients in the intervention group had normal mood at follow up. A significant benefit of motivational interviewing over usual stroke care (OR: 1.60, 95% CI: 1.04 to 2.46,
P
=0.03) was found.

Conclusion—

Our results suggest motivational interviewing leads to an improvement in patients’ mood 3 months after stroke.
Early Human Atherosclerosis
Authors: Nakashima Yutaka , Fujii Hiroshi , Sumiyoshi Shinji , Wight Thomas N. , Sueishi Katsuo
Published: February 2007

Objective—

The present study was designed to clarify the morphological features of early human atherosclerosis and to determine whether specific extracellular matrix proteoglycans play a role in early atherogenesis.

Methods and Results—

Step and serial sections were obtained from right coronary arteries with no or early atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis was classified into 4 grades according to the amount of lipid deposition. Coronary arteries with Grade 0 showed diffuse intimal thickening (DIT) with no lipid deposits. The extracellular matrix proteoglycans, biglycan and decorin, were localized in the outer layer of DIT. Most cases of Grade 1 and Grade 2 exhibited fatty streaks with extracellular lipids colocalizing with biglycan and decorin in the outer layer of the intima. As lipid grades increased, macrophages increased in number and were present in the deeper layers. Most cases of Grade 3 exhibited pathologic intimal thickening (PIT) with extracellular lipids underneath a layer of foam cell macrophages.

Conclusions—

In early human coronary atherosclerosis, fatty streaks develop via extracellular deposition of lipids associated with specific types of proteoglycans in the outer layer of preexisting DIT. As the amount of the lipid increases in fatty streaks, macrophages infiltrate toward the deposited lipid to form PIT with foam cells.
Oxysterol Binding Protein Induces Upregulation of SREBP-1c and Enhances Hepatic Lipogenesis
Authors: Yan Daoguang , Lehto Markku , Rasilainen Laura , Metso Jari , Ehnholm Christian , Ylä-Herttuala Seppo , Jauhiainen Matti , Olkkonen Vesa M.
Published: February 2007

Background—

Oxysterol binding protein (OSBP) has previously been implicated as a sterol sensor that regulates sphingomyelin synthesis and the activity of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK).

Methods and Results—

We determined the effects of adenovirus-mediated hepatic overexpression of OSBP and its homologues ORP1L and ORP3 on mouse serum lipids. Whereas ORP1L and ORP3 had no effect on serum lipids, OSBP induced a marked increase of VLDL triglycerides (TG). Also, the liver tissue TG were elevated in the AdOSBP-injected mice, and their TG secretion rate was increased by 70%. The messenger RNAs for enzymes of fatty acid synthesis and their transcriptional regulator, SREBP-1c, as well as the Insig-1 mRNA, were upregulated two-fold in the OSBP-expressing livers. No change occurred in the messages of liver X receptor target genes
ABCA1
,
ABCG5
, and
CYP7A1
, and the Insig-2a mRNA was reduced. The phosphorylation of ERK was decreased in AdOSBP-infected liver and cultured hepatocytes. Importantly, silencing of OSBP in hepatocytes suppressed the induction of SREBP1-c by insulin and resulted in a reduction of TG synthesis.

Conclusion—

Our results demonstrate that OSBP regulates hepatic TG metabolism and suggest the involvement of OSBP in the insulin signaling pathways that control hepatic lipogenesis.
Alpha Defensins 1, 2, and 3
Authors: López-Bermejo Abel , Chico-Julià Berta , Castro Antoni , Recasens Mònica , Esteve Eduardo , Biarnés Josefina , Casamitjana Roser , Ricart Wifredo , Fernández-Real José-Manuel
Published: February 2007

Objectives—

α-Defensins are natural antibiotics made by neutrophils that have been reported to modulate cholesterol metabolism and vascular function; however, their role in vivo remains largely unknown. We hypothesized that α-defensins 1 to 3 (DEFA1–3) are associated with serum lipids and vascular reactivity in humans.

Methods and Results—

One hundred thirteen apparently-healthy White men, participants in a prospective study of cardiovascular risk factors, were assessed for a lipid profile, insulin sensitivity (
S
I
, frequently-sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test), and non-stressed circulating DEFA1–3 (ELISA). In a subset of 52 subjects, vascular reactivity (high-resolution ultrasound of the brachial artery) was also assessed. Subjects in the highest quartile for plasma DEFA1–3 were found to be leaner and more insulin sensitive, and to have significantly reduced total and LDL-cholesterol, compared with subjects in the lowest quartile for circulating DEFA1–3 (
P
<0.0001 to
P
=0.002 for linear trend ANOVA). The associations with serum lipids persisted after adjustment for age, body mass index, insulin sensitivity, and smoking (which was associated with reduced plasma DEFA1–3 concentrations). Finally, endothelium-independent vasodilation increased with increasing circulating DEFA1–3 (
P
=0.003) and this association was not explained by age, body mass index, serum cholesterol, insulin sensitivity, or smoking.

Conclusions—

Circulating DEFA1–3 are associated with serum cholesterol and vascular reactivity in humans. α-Defensins may have clinical implications in patients with either hypercholesterolemia or vascular dysfunction.
Simvastatin Reduces MMP1 Expression in Human Smooth Muscle Cells Cultured on Polymerized Collagen by Inhibiting Rac1 Activation
Authors: Ferri Nicola , Colombo Giulia , Ferrandi Corrado , Raines Elaine W. , Levkau Bodo , Corsini Alberto
Published: February 2007

Objective—

Activation of collagen receptors expressed by smooth muscle cells induces matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression. The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) have been shown to interfere with integrin signaling, but their effects on collagen receptor-mediated MMP expression have not been investigated.

Methods and Results—

In the present study, we show that simvastatin (3 μmol/L) reduces MMP1 expression and secretion in human smooth muscle cells cultured on polymerized type I collagen by 39.9±11.2% and 36.0±2.3%, respectively. Reduced MMP1 protein levels correlate with a similar decrease in MMP1 promoter activity (−33.0±8.9%), MMP1 mRNA levels (−37.8±10.5%), and attenuation of smooth muscle cell collagen degradation (−34.2±6.1%). Mevalonate, and the isoprenoid derivative geranylgeraniol, precursors of geranylgeranylated proteins, completely prevent the inhibitory effect of simvastatin on MMP1. Moreover, the protein geranylgeranyltransferase inhibitor GGTI-286 significantly decreases MMP1 expression. Retroviral overexpression of dominant-negative mutants of geranylgeranylated Rac1 lead to a reduction of MMP1 protein (−50.4±5.4%) and mRNA levels (−97.9±1.0%), and knockdown of Rac1 by small interfering RNA downregulates MMP1 expression. Finally, simvastatin reduces GTP-bound Rac1 expression levels in smooth muscle cells cultured on polymerized collagen.

Conclusions—

These results demonstrate that simvastatin, by inhibiting Rac1 activity, reduces MMP1 expression and collagen degradation in human smooth muscle cells.
From the Freedmen’s Bureau to FEMA: A Post-Katrina Historical, Journalistic, and Literary Analysis
Authors: Reed Pamela Denise
Published: February 2007

This treatment is an examination of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s response, or lack thereof, to the citizens of New Orleans after the historic and catastrophic events in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. Comparisons are drawn between it and the shameful failure of the Freedmen’s Bureau after the “Emancipation” of enslaved Africans in the place called America. Drawing from current media reports, historical texts, and the so-called slave narratives, this work seeks to point out Uncle Sam’s alarming legacy of treacherous, institutional nonchalance and disregard for the well-being of the African-descended American.
Highly Quantified Teachers
Authors: Selwyn Doug
Published: February 2007

In this article the author looks at the impact NCLB is having on teacher education programs, focusing on three major areas: who is entering teacher preparation programs; the experience they have while they are in those programs; and the experience they have while in the schools as student teachers. The increased focus on testing to determine who can teach (despite a lack of research supporting this policy) is both pushing out and alienating potential teachers whose strengths and interests don't show up on tests, and/or who don't believe that this is the best way to serve the public school students. This emphasis treats teachers like they are incapable of making good decisions based on their knowledge of curricula, kids, and human development. NCLB pressures teacher education programs to violate what they know and believe about teaching and learning, and to perpetuate an unethical system of privilege and inequality.
Stress and Burnout Among Prison Personnel
Authors: Keinan Giora , Malach-Pines Ayala
Published: February 2007

This study identifies the typical stressors affecting individuals working in the prison system in Israel and assesses the outcomes resulting from these stressors. A representative sample of Israel Prison Service employees ( N = 496) participate in the study. Participants complete questionnaires designed to assess the stressors in their work and their levels of stress and burnout, and 11% of them are interviewed in-depth. Results show that prison employees experience high levels of stress and burnout in their work. In addition, significant differences in stress reactions are found among different sectors (security, administration, and treatment) and among employees differing in rank and seniority. The most stressful factors were working extra shifts without compensation, low salary, and heavy workload. Recommendations are offered focusing on ways to prevent and reduce stress and burnout among prison personnel.
Social Information Processing, Experiences of Aggression in Social Contexts, and Aggressive Behavior in Adolescents
Authors: Lösel Friedrich , Bliesener Thomas , Bender Doris
Published: February 2007

This study examines social information processing and experiences of aggression in social contexts as predictors of different forms of aggressive behavior. A sample of 102 boys (aggressive, average, competent, and victimized students) was investigated with a prospective design in Grade 7/8 and again in Grade 9/10. Results show an aggressive-impulsive response repertoire strongly predicted self-reported and teacher-reported physical aggression, verbal aggression, violent offenses, general aggression, and other forms of delinquency. Positive evaluations of aggressive responses showed a weaker effect, and attributions of hostility and aggressive/egocentric goal setting had no impact. Perceived aggression in the family, in the peer group, in media consumption, and (less consistently) at school predicted verbal aggression as well as physical aggression and violent offenses. Multivariate analyses revealed both mediating and independent effects of social information processing and experiences of aggression in social contexts. Results are discussed from methodological and theoretical perspectives.
Cognitive Errors, Anxiety Sensitivity, and Anxiety Control Beliefs
Authors: Weems Carl F. , Costa Natalie M. , Watts Sarah E. , Taylor Leslie K. , Cannon Melinda F.
Published: February 2007

This study examined the interrelations among negative cognitive errors, anxiety sensitivity, and anxiety control beliefs and explored their unique and specific associations with anxiety symptoms in a community sample of youth. Existing research has suggested that these constructs are related to childhood anxiety disorder symptoms; however, additional research is needed to test the interrelations among negative cognitive errors, anxiety sensitivity, and anxiety control beliefs and to determine if they show unique and specific associations with anxiety symptoms. The results of this study indicated that negative cognitive errors, anxiety sensitivity, and anxiety control beliefs were associated with each other and that they demonstrated unique concurrent associations with childhood anxiety disorder symptoms. Moreover, certain cognitive biases showed specificity in their association with anxiety symptoms versus depressive symptoms.
The intellectual and social organization of academic fields and the shaping of digital resources
Authors: Fry Jenny , Talja Sanna
Published: February 2007

This paper looks at disciplinary differences in the production, relevance, and use of three predominant genres of informal scholarly communication on the internet: academic mailing lists; scholarly homepages, and scholar-produced decentralized digital resources. The aim is to contribute to the development of a theoretical framework for understanding and explaining disciplinary differences in the shaping of networked resources. We apply Whitley’s theory of the intellectual and social organization of academic fields to explain variation in forms and types of digital resources across fields. The paper extends Whitley’s theory by applying his key domain analytic concepts ‘task uncertainty’ and ‘mutual dependence’ to explain scholarly communication practices in the digital realm. The empirical data spans seven intellectual fields across the natural sciences, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences. The analysis shows that, while there are similarities in the scholarly production of information genres on the internet, Whitley’s theory helps in identifying and understanding the diversity and heterogeneity of electronic communication fora across fields.
Identifying controlled studies of alcohol-impaired driving prevention: designing an effective search strategy
Authors: Goss Cynthia , Lowenstein Steven , Roberts Ian , DiGuiseppi Carolyn
Published: February 2007

Database search strategies for systematic reviews are often developed subjectively and may miss relevant studies. We examined whether objective methods, originally developed to identify systematic reviews, could be applied to a multidisciplinary topic, alcohol-impaired driving (AID). We performed word-frequency analyses of titles/abstracts/keywords on citations randomly selected from a ‘gold standard’ database of 131 controlled studies evaluating AID interventions. Identified words were tested in the Web of Science databases for sensitivity, precision, and feasibility. Words meeting varying sensitivity and precision thresholds were combined into search strategies. All threshold combinations with cumulative sensitivity of at least 75% retrieved ≥ 100,000 citations. The word frequency-based procedure was therefore modified, first by eliminating non-specific words, then by categorizing and combining the remaining words. With these modifications, sensitivity was 80.0% and precision 4.4%, retrieving 17,565 citations. Against a validation set, sensitivity was 85.7% and precision 3.5%. To identify studies on multidisciplinary topics, objective methods may be useful initially but may need to be modified to meet sensitivity and feasibility targets.
Positive musical effects on two types of negative stressful conditions
Authors: Yamamoto Masahira , Naga Shinobu , Shimizu Jun
Published: February 2007

The present study focused on mood effects of high-tempo (HT) or low-tempo (LT) music on a high-or a low-arousal stressful task condition (HST or LST), manipulating the relationship between affective valence and psycho-physiological arousal. In Experiment 1, 20 participants listened to the HT or LT music immediately after the HST or LST condition, determining heart rate (HR), skin conductance level (SCL), respiratory rate (RR), cortisol (CS) concentration level, and visual analogue scales (VAS). Experiment 2 established a 10-minute rest between stressful and musical conditions by using a method similar to that used in Experiment 1. Consequently, in Experiment 1, the LT music significantly reduced HR levels under the HST condition. In addition, in subjective vector analyses derived from the VAS, the LT music indicated stress-distractive effects on the HST condition (arousal allopathy) and on the LST condition (arousal sympathy). In Experiment 2, there were arousal-moderating effects of the LT music in all stress groups.
Nonverbal communication in one-to-one music performance instruction
Authors: Kurkul Wen W.
Published: February 2007

This study explored nonverbal communication in one-to-one music performance instruction by investigating relationships among nonverbal sensitivity, nonverbal behaviors and lesson effectiveness. Subjects ( N = 120) comprised 60 college teachers and 60 of their non-music major students. Using the Music Lesson Evaluation Form, lesson effectiveness was rated. Subjects were also administered the Profile of Nonverbal Sensitivity to measure their nonverbal sensitivity. Selected teachers’ nonverbal behaviors during lessons were examined. Descriptors of Voice Quality was developed to rate teachers’ vocal qualities. Major findings included: (1) while there was a gap in perception of lesson effectiveness between teachers and students, external judges may be a reliable source for evaluation; (2) teachers’ nonverbal sensitivity was related to effectiveness ratings by their students and by external judges; (3) students’ nonverbal sensitivity was related to their overall evaluations of lesson effectiveness and the factor ‘rapport’; (4) relatively few selected teachers’ nonverbal behaviors were related to either teachers’ nonverbal sensitivity or effectiveness ratings.
Douglass North’s Remaking of Economic History: A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Milonakis Dimitris , Fine Ben
Published: February 2007

This article aims to begin to fill a gap in the literature by offering a comprehensive critique of Douglass North’s work with emphasis on his historical studies. After a brief overview of his theoretical contributions, a closer scrutiny of his theory in its application to history is offered. North’s histories are found to be problematic. To resolve the difficulties involved requires a break with his methodology and the supplemented neoclassical economics from which it is drawn.
Partner Stalking and Implications for Women’s Employment
Authors: Logan TK , Shannon Lisa , Cole Jennifer , Swanberg Jennifer
Published: February 2007

In general research suggests partner violence has a negative impact on women’s employment. However, there has been limited examination of partner stalking and consequences for employment. The purpose of this study was to examine partner stalking and employment consequences among two samples of women. One sample was women who had obtained a protective order against a violent partner and had worked in the prior year ( n = 482), about one half of these women were stalked by their violent partner and one half were not. The second study examined qualitative information from women recently stalked ( n = 62) by a violent partner. Results from both studies suggest that women who were stalked by a violent partner were significantly more susceptible to on-the-job harassment and problems. Also, women reported that stalking by a partner interfered in their work through on-the-job harassment, work disruption, and job performance problems. Implications for policy and research are discussed.
Exploring the Literature on Relationships Between Gender Roles, Intimate Partner Violence, Occupational Status, and Organizational Benefits
Authors: Kwesiga Eileen , Bell Myrtle P. , Pattie Marshall , Moe Angela M.
Published: February 2007

Studies of intimate partner violence (IPV) and work have been primarily conducted with women in low-wage low-status (LWLS) positions, as much of this research has focused on poverty, welfare, and homelessness. Although women in LWLS positions represent a large percentage of working women in the United States, it is also important to investigate experiences of women in high-wage high-status (HWHS) positions because a growing number of women are employed within such jobs. We propose gender role theory can be used to explain occurrences of IPV among women in HWHS positions and their utilization of organizational benefits. We suggest those in HWHS positions may be likely to have access to organizational benefits (e.g., medical, vacation, and flexible work schedules) and the ability to utilize the Family and Medical Leave Act. However, prevailing gender roles existing in organizations may render women in HWHS positions unlikely to use benefits or to take leave.
Quantifying the Local Kinematic Effect in Actuated Plates via Strain Energy Distribution
Authors: Robbins D.H. , Chopra Inderjit
Published: February 2007

This article examines the distribution of strain energy in the various component materials of actuated plates and investigates the manner in which the strain energy distribution is influenced by the actuated span-to-thickness ratio and the thickness of the adhesive bond layer. Furthermore, the article investigates the effect of modeling choices (e.g., kinematic assumptions and mesh density) on the predicted magnitude and mode of the dominant strain energy form in each component material. These computed parameters can be used to quantify the overall efficiency of an actuated plate in addition to aiding the understanding of the local mechanics that govern the process. The focus problem consists of a square aluminum plate with a single symmetric pair of surface-mounted piezoceramic actuators that are used to produce in-plane extension or bending in the aluminum plate. The behavior of the actuated plate is examined over a range of plate thicknesses and adhesive bond layer thicknesses by using a series of finite element models that feature different levels of kinematic complexity and different levels of two-dimensional (2-D) mesh density. The results of the study emphasize the need for discrete layer kinematics in determining the magnitude and mode of the dominant strain energy form in each constituent material; however, these computed parameters are shown to be rather insensitive to changes in 2-D mesh density. Most importantly, the study confirms the existence and quantifies the magnitude of the local kinematic effect, whereby a portion of the available actuation energy is diverted to the production of localized transverse shear deformation and transverse normal deformation, thus reducing the amount of actuation energy available to produce in-plane deformation in the structural substrate.
Two-level Damage Detection Strategy Based on Modal Parameters from Distributed Dynamic Macro-strain Measurements
Authors: Wu Zhishen , Li Suzhen
Published: February 2007

The concept of distributed strain sensing techniques has been proposed in a recent research by the authors, which had been dedicated to utilize the strain distributions throughout the full or some partial areas of structures to detect the arbitrary and unforeseen damage. Based on the distributed long-gage fiber optic sensors, a two-level strategy is proposed in this study for damage detection in flexural structures using modal parameters extracted from dynamic macro-strain responses. Modal macro-strain vector (MMSV), similar to the mode shape from acceleration measurements, is utilized to construct damage evaluating indexes for Level 1 damage locating with no need for a detailed analytical model. Hereto, the damaged area with a space resolution of the gage lengths of fiber optic sensors can be detected and the unknown parameters to be identified are greatly reduced into the damaged domain. Then based on the concept of FE model updating, natural frequencies that present high accuracy and precision in practical measurements can be adopted for Level 2 damage locating with a space resolution of the sizes of finite elements and damage quantification. The experimental investigations on cantilevered beams before and after different levels of damage with distributed long-gage Fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors are carried out. The comparison between the identified damages and the exact set ones has verified the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed two-level strategy in damage locating and quantification.
Overview of Magnetostrictive Sensor Technology
Authors: Calkins Frederick T. , Flatau Alison B. , Dapino Marcelo J.
Published: February 2007

As sensors become integrated in more applications, interest in magnetostrictive sensor technology has blossomed. Magnetostrictive sensors take advantage of the efficient coupling between the elastic and magnetic states of a material to facilitate sensing a quantity of interest. Magnetic and magnetostrictive theory pertinent to magnetostrictive sensor technology is provided. Sensing configurations are based on the utilization of a magnetostrictive element in a passive, active, or combined mode. Magnetostrictive sensor configurations that measure motion, stress or force, torque, magnetic fields, target characteristics, and miscellaneous effects are discussed. The configurations are compared and contrasted in terms of application, sensitivity, and implementation issues. Comparisons are made to other common sensor configurations as appropriate. Experimental and modeling results are described when available and schematics of the configurations are presented.
Vibration Characteristics of Rotating Sandwich Beams Filled with Electrorheological Fluids
Authors: Wei Kexiang , Meng Guang , Zhang Wenming , Zhou Shuo
Published: February 2007

Dynamic modeling and vibration characteristics of a rotating sandwich beam filled with an electrorheological (ER) materials layer are investigated in this study. The stress—strain relationship for the ER fluids is described by a complex shear modulus using linear visco-elasticity theory. A dynamic equation of the rotating ER beam is derived based on Hamilton's principle. The coupling and nonlinear equation is discretized and solved by the finite element method (FEM). The influence of various electric field strengths and rotating speeds on the natural frequencies and damping loss factors of the rotating ER beam are presented. The amplitudes of vibration at different operation conditions are compared. The results obtained indicate that significant vibration attenuation is achieved as the electric field is increased at different rotating speeds, and demonstrate the feasibility of using the ER fluids to control the vibration of the rotating beam.
Multiple Surface Cracking of a Piezoelectric Layer Bonded to an Elastic Substrate Under Dynamic Anti-plane Electromechanical Impacts
Authors: Wang B.L. , Han J.C.
Published: February 2007

In engineering applications, piezoelectric materials are usually bonded to elastic substrates to form so-called smart materials and structures. Such materials and structures can respond to external electromechanical environments, which are often transient. This article studies a periodic array of surface cracks in a piezoelectric layer bonded to an elastic substrate subjected to transient electromechanical loads. The anti-plane mechanical and in-plane electrical loads are investigated. A system of singular integral equations is formulated in terms of the crack surface anti-plane displacement and in-plane electrical potential. Effects of crack spacing and electromechanical coupling on the time-dependent crack tip field intensity factors are investigated in detail. Both a single piezoelectric layer and a piezoelectric layer bonded to an elastic substrate are analyzed for electrically impermeable and permeable crack assumptions.
The Dilemma of Defining International Human Resource Development
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , McLean Gary N.
Published: February 2007

From the beginning of the use of the term human resource development (HRD) to describe our field, there have been struggles over the meaning of the term and, even more broadly, of the field itself. In recent years, there has been increased attention to the question of the field’s definition, in general, as well as attention to the emerging field of national HRD. This article moves this exploration one more step toward an exploration of the dilemma of defining international and cross-national HRD. A beginning definition is offered, not as a definitive answer but to facilitate ongoing discussion in the dialogue on HRD definitions.
Waldenström macroglobulinemia
Authors: Vijay Arun , Gertz Morie A.
Published: February 2007

In the past 36 months, new developments have occurred both in the understanding of the biology of Waldenström macroglobulinemia (WM) and in therapeutic options for WM. Here, we review the classification, clinical features, and diagnostic criteria of the disease. WM is a B-cell neoplasm characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration of the bone marrow and a monoclonal immunoglobulin M (IgM) protein. The symptoms of WM are attributable to the extent of tumor infiltration and to elevated IgM levels. The most common symptom is fatigue attributable to anemia. The prognostic factors predictive of survival include the patient's age, β2-microglobulin level, monoclonal protein level, hemoglobin concentration, and platelet count. Therapy is postponed for asymptomatic patients, and progressive anemia is the most common indication for initiation of treatment. The main therapeutic options include alkylating agents, nucleoside analogues, and rituximab. Studies involving combination chemotherapy are ongoing, and preliminary results are encouraging. No specific agent or regimen has been shown to be superior to another for treatment of WM. Novel agents such as bortezomib, perifosine, atacicept, oblimersen sodium, and tositumomab show promise as rational targeted therapy for WM.
Novel gene expression patterns along the proximo-distal axis of the mouse embryo before gastrulation
Authors: Frankenberg Stephen , Smith Lee , Greenfield Andy , Zernicka-Goetz Magdalena
Published: February 2007

Background

To date, the earliest stage at which the orientation of the anterior-posterior axis in the mouse embryo is distinguishable by asymmetric gene expression is shortly after E5.5. At E5.5, prospective anterior markers are expressed at the distal tip of the embryo, whereas prospective posterior markers are expressed more proximally, close to the boundary with the extraembryonic region.

Results

To contribute to elucidating the mechanisms underlying the events involved in early patterning of the mouse embryo, we have carried out a microarray screen to identify novel genes that are differentially expressed between the distal and proximal parts of the E5.5 embryo. Secondary screening of resulting candidates by in situ hybridisation at E5.5 and E6.5 revealed novel expression patterns for known and previously uncharacterised genes, including Peg10, Ctsz1, Cubilin, Jarid1b, Ndrg1, Sfmbt2, Gjb5, Talia and Plet1. The previously undescribed gene Talia and recently identified Plet1 are expressed specifically in the distal-most part of the extraembryonic ectoderm, adjacent to the epiblast, and are therefore potential candidates for regulating early patterning events. Talia and the previously described gene XE7 define a gene family highly conserved among metazoans and with a predicted protein structure suggestive of a post-transcriptional regulative function, whilst Plet1 appears to be mammal-specific and of unknown function.

Conclusion

Our approach has allowed us to compare expression between dissected parts of the egg cylinder and has identified multiple genes with novel expression patterns at this developmental stage. These genes are potential candidates for regulating tissue interactions following implantation.
A screen for nuclear transcripts identifies two linked noncoding RNAs associated with SC35 splicing domains
Authors: Hutchinson John N , Ensminger Alexander W , Clemson Christine M , Lynch Christopher R , Lawrence Jeanne B , Chess Andrew
Published: February 2007

Background

Noncoding RNA species play a diverse set of roles in the eukaryotic cell. While much recent attention has focused on smaller RNA species, larger noncoding transcripts are also thought to be highly abundant in mammalian cells. To search for large noncoding RNAs that might control gene expression or mRNA metabolism, we used Affymetrix expression arrays to identify polyadenylated RNA transcripts displaying nuclear enrichment.

Results

This screen identified no more than three transcripts;XIST, and two unique noncoding nuclear enriched abundant transcripts (NEAT) RNAs strikingly located less than 70 kb apart on human chromosome 11:NEAT1, a noncoding RNA from the locus encoding forTncRNA, andNEAT2(also known asMALAT-1). While the twoNEATtranscripts share no significant homology with each other, each is conserved within the mammalian lineage, suggesting significant function for these noncoding RNAs.NEAT2is extraordinarily well conserved for a noncoding RNA, more so than evenXIST. Bioinformatic analyses of publicly available mouse transcriptome data support our findings from human cells as they confirm that the murine homologs of these noncoding RNAs are also nuclear enriched. RNA FISH analyses suggest that these noncoding RNAs function in mRNA metabolism as they demonstrate an intimate association of these RNA species with SC35 nuclear speckles in both human and mouse cells. These studies show that one of these transcripts,NEAT1localizes to the periphery of such domains, whereas the neighboring transcript,NEAT2, is part of the long-sought polyadenylated component of nuclear speckles.

Conclusion

Our genome-wide screens in two mammalian species reveal no more than three abundant large non-coding polyadenylated RNAs in the nucleus; the canonical large noncoding RNAXISTandNEAT1andNEAT2. The function of these noncoding RNAs in mRNA metabolism is suggested by their high levels of conservation and their intimate association with SC35 splicing domains in multiple mammalian species.
Blockade of catecholamine-induced growth by adrenergic and dopaminergic receptor antagonists in Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica and Yersinia enterocolitica
Authors: Freestone Primrose PE , Haigh Richard D , Lyte Mark
Published: February 2007

Background

The ability of catecholamines to stimulate bacterial growth was first demonstrated just over a decade ago. Little is still known however, concerning the nature of the putative bacterial adrenergic and/or dopaminergic receptor(s) to which catecholamines (norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine) may bind and exert their effects, or even whether the binding properties of such a receptor are similar between different species.

Results

Use of specific catecholamine receptor antagonists revealed that only α, and not β, adrenergic antagonists were capable of blocking norepinephrine and epinephrine-induced growth, while antagonism of dopamine-mediated growth was achieved with the use of a dopaminergic antagonist. Both adrenergic and dopaminergic antagonists were highly specific in their mechanism of action, which did not involve blockade of catecholamine-facilitated iron-acquisition. Use of radiolabeled norepinephrine suggested that the adrenergic antagonists could be acting by inhibiting catecholamine uptake.

Conclusion

The present data demonstrates that the ability of a specific pathogen to respond to a particular hormone is dependent upon the host anatomical region in which the pathogen causes disease as well as the neuroanatomical specificity to which production of the particular hormone is restricted; and that both are anatomically coincidental to each other. As such, the present report suggests that pathogens with a high degree of exclusivity to the gastrointestinal tract have evolved response systems to neuroendocrine hormones such as norepinephrine and dopamine, but not epinephrine, which are found with the enteric nervous system.
Androgen responsive intronic non-coding RNAs
Authors: Louro Rodrigo , Nakaya Helder I , Amaral Paulo P , Festa Fernanda , Sogayar Mari C , da Silva Aline M , Verjovski-Almeida Sergio , Reis Eduardo M
Published: February 2007

Background

Transcription of large numbers of non-coding RNAs originating from intronic regions of human genes has been recently reported, but mechanisms governing their biosynthesis and biological functions are largely unknown. In this work, we evaluated the existence of a common mechanism of transcription regulation shared by protein-coding mRNAs and intronic RNAs by measuring the effect of androgen on the transcriptional profile of a prostate cancer cell line.

Results

Using a custom-built cDNA microarray enriched in intronic transcribed sequences, we found 39 intronic non-coding RNAs for which levels were significantly regulated by androgen exposure. Orientation-specific reverse transcription-PCR indicated that 10 of the 13 were transcribed in the antisense direction. These transcripts are long (0.5–5 kb), unspliced and apparently do not code for proteins. Interestingly, we found that the relative levels of androgen-regulated intronic transcripts could be correlated with the levels of the corresponding protein-coding gene (asGAS6andasDNAJC3) or with the alternative usage of exons (asKDELR2andasITGA6) in the corresponding protein-coding transcripts. Binding of the androgen receptor to a putative regulatory region upstream fromasMYO5A, an androgen-regulated antisense intronic transcript, was confirmed by chromatin immunoprecipitation.

Conclusion

Altogether, these results indicate that at least a fraction of naturally transcribed intronic non-coding RNAs may be regulated by common physiological signals such as hormones, and further corroborate the notion that the intronic complement of the transcriptome play functional roles in the human gene-expression program.
The HBZ-SP1 isoform of human T-cell leukemia virus type I represses JunB activity by sequestration into nuclear bodies
Authors: Hivin Patrick , Basbous Jihane , Raymond Frédéric , Henaff Daniel , Arpin-André Charlotte , Robert-Hebmann Véronique , Barbeau Benoit , Mesnard Jean-Michel
Published: February 2007

Background

The human T-cell leukemia virus type I (HTLV-I) basic leucine-zipper factor (HBZ) has previously been shown to modulate transcriptional activity of Jun family members. The presence of a novel isoform of HBZ, termed HBZ-SP1, has recently been characterized in adult T-cell leukemia (ATL) cells and has been found to be associated with intense nuclear spots. In this study, we investigated the role of these nuclear bodies in the regulation of the transcriptional activity of JunB.

Results

Using fluorescence microscopy, we found that the HBZ-SP1 protein localizes to intense dots corresponding to HBZ-NBs and to nucleoli. We analyzed the relative mobility of the EGFP-HBZ-SP1 fusion protein using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) analysis and found that the deletion of the ZIP domain perturbs the association of the HBZ-SP1 protein to the HBZ-NBs. These data suggested that HBZ needs cellular partners, including bZIP factors, to form HBZ-NBs. Indeed, by cotransfection experiments in COS cells, we have found that the bZIP factor JunB is able to target delocalized form of HBZ (deleted in its nuclear localization subdomains) into the HBZ-NBs. We also show that the viral protein is able to entail a redistribution of JunB into the HBZ-NBs. Moreover, by transfecting HeLa cells (known to express high level of JunB) with a vector expressing HBZ-SP1, the sequestration of JunB to the HBZ-NBs inhibited its transcriptional activity. Lastly, we analyzed the nuclear distribution of HBZ-SP1 in the presence of JunD, a Jun family member known to be activated by HBZ. In this case, no NBs were detected and the HBZ-SP1 protein was diffusely distributed throughout the nucleoplasm.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that HBZ-mediated sequestration of JunB to the HBZ-NBs may be causing the repression of JunB activity in vivo.
Isolated right atrial appendage (RAA) rupture in blunt trauma – a case report and an anatomic study comparing RAA and right atrium (RA) wall thickness
Authors: Figueiredo Adoniram M , Poggetti Renato S , Quintavalle Fabio G , Fontes Belchor , Dalva Moise , Younes Riad N , Jatene Fabio B , Birolini Dario
Published: February 2007

Background

Heart chambers rupture in blunt trauma is uncommon and is associated with a high mortality. The determinant factors, and the incidence of isolated heart chambers rupture remains undetermined. Isolated rupture of the right atrium appendage (RAA) is very rare, with 8 cases reported in the reviewed literature. The thin wall of the RAA has been presumed to render this chamber more prone to rupture in blunt trauma.

Objective

To report a case of isolated RAA rupture in blunt trauma, and to compare right atrium (RA) and RAA wall thickness in a necropsy study.

Methods

The thickness of RA and RAA wall of hearts from cadavers of fatal penetrating head trauma victims was measured. Our case of isolated RAA rupture is presented. The main findings of the 8 cases reported in the literature, and the findings of our case, were organized in a table.

Result

The comparison of the data showed that wall thickness of the RAA (0.53 ± 0.33 mm) was significantly thinner than that of RA (1.11 ± 0.42 mm) (p < 0.05).

Comments

In all these 9 cases of isolated RAA rupture, cardiac tamponade occurred, RAA rupture was diagnosed intraoperatively and sutured, and the patients survived. Main mechanisms hypothesized for heart chamber rupture include mechanical compression coincident with phases of cardiac cycle, leading to high hydrostatic pressure inside the chamber. Published series include numerous cases of RA rupture, and only a few cases of RAA rupture.

Conclusion

Thus, our data suggests that wall thickness is not a determinant factor for RA or RAA rupture in blunt trauma.
Effect of the medical emergency team on long-term mortality following major surgery
Authors: Jones Daryl , Egi Moritoki , Bellomo Rinaldo , Goldsmith Donna
Published: February 2007

Introduction

Introducing an intensive care unit (ICU)-based medical emergency team (MET) into our hospital was associated with decreased postoperative in-hospital mortality after major surgery. The purpose of the present study was to assess the effect of the MET and other variables on long-term mortality in this patient population.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, controlled, before-and-after trial in a University-affiliated hospital. Participants included consecutive patients admitted for major surgery (surgery requiring hospital stay > 48 hours) during a four month control phase and a four month MET phase. The intervention involved the introduction of a hospital-wide ICU-based MET service to evaluate and treat ward patients with acutely deranged vital signs. Information on long-term mortality was obtained from the Australian death registry. The main outcome measure was patient mortality at 1500 days. Data on patient demographics, surgery undertaken and whether the surgery was scheduled or unscheduled was obtained from the hospital electronic database. Multivariable analysis was conducted to determine independent predictors of 1500-day mortality.

Results

There were 1,369 major operations in 1,116 patients during the control period and 1,313 operations in 1,067 patients during the MET (intervention) period. Overall survival at 1500 days was 65.8% in the control period and 71.6% during the MET period (P = 0.001). Patients in the control phase were statistically less likely to be admitted under orthopaedic surgery, urology and faciomaxillary surgery units, but more likely to be admitted under cardiac surgery or neurosurgery units. Patients in the MET period were less likely to undergo unscheduled surgery. Multivariable analysis revealed that age, unscheduled surgery and admission under thoracic surgery, neurosurgery, oncology and general medicine were independent predictors of increased 1500-day mortality. Admission during the MET period was also an independent predictor of decreased 1500-day mortality (odds ratio 0.74; P = 0.005).

Conclusion

Introduction of a MET service in a teaching hospital was associated with increased long-term survival even after adjusting for other factors that contribute to long-term surgical mortality.
Contraception in Adolescence
Authors: DELIGEOROGLOU EFTHIMIOS , CHRISTOPOULOS PANAGIOTIS , CREATSAS GEORGE
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Adolescents, due to the lack of knowledge, experience, and counseling, may confront serious social and health‐related problems, such as out‐of‐wedlock pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The age of the first sexual intercourse has declined recently. Unintended pregnancies often force adolescents into unwanted marriage or limit their opportunities to further education or employment while predisposing them to long‐term welfare dependence. To be most effective, sex education programs should be developed through a process of collaboration between families, health care professionals, educators, government officials, and youth themselves. The contraceptive choices during adolescence are the male condom, the use of spermicides, combined oral contraceptives (COCs), the depomedroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA), the female condom, the vaginal sponge, implants and patches, male hormonal contraception, and others. Issues of emergency contraception (EC) are also discussed.
Open Issues in Anorexia Nervosa
Authors: BRUNI VINCENZINA , FRANCESCA FILICETTI MARIA , PONTELLO VALENTINA
Published: February 2007

Abstract:  Anorexia nervosa and diet‐induced amenorrhea have an important impact not only on gynecological health but also on bone mass, especially if the disease is not promptly recognized and treated. This is particularly important because these conditions usually arise in adolescence, when peak bone mass is normally achieved. In this article we discuss the therapeutic issues related to bone loss associated with eating disorders.