bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are microarrays useful in the screening of ABCA4 mutations in Italian patients affected by macular degenerations?
Authors: Stenirri Stefania , Alaimo Georgia , Manitto Maria Pia , Brancato Rosario , Ferrari Maurizio , Cremonesi Laura
Published: July 2008

: Recessive Stargardt disease is due to mutations in the retina-specific ABC transporter gene. Established strategies for molecular characterization of this gene include direct detection by a microarray interrogating approximately 500 DNA variations and a scanning denaturing HPLC methodology.

: Because 11 mutations were reported to account for approximately 50% of molecular defects in the Italian population, we evaluated an alternative open microchip-based assay for a fast and simplified level 1 screening for these mutations.

: This approach allowed the characterization of both mutated alleles in 4% and one mutated allele in 43% of cases when applied to a cohort of 47 Stargardt patients. In the same patients, further investigation by denaturing HPLC for complete characterization identified both mutated alleles in 51% and one mutated allele in 19% of cases, allowing the detection of 38 different mutations, five of which had never been described. Notably, new mutations account for a high proportion (13%) of molecular defects in our patient cohort.

: This finding raises the question about the choice of the optimal diagnostic strategy for complete genotyping of the

Clin Chem Lab Med 2008;46:1250–5.
Disrupted secretory activation of the mammary gland after antenatal glucocorticoid treatment in sheep
Authors: Henderson Jennifer J , Hartmann Peter E , Moss Timothy J M , Doherty Dorota A , Newnham John P
Published: July 2008

Antenatal glucocorticoids are administered to women at risk of preterm delivery to prevent neonatal respiratory morbidity. The effects of exogenous glucocorticoids on the development of lactation are unknown. This study investigated the effects of a single dose of antenatal glucocorticoids on secretory activation in sheep before and after parturition. Pregnant ewes (N=36) were randomised to receive either medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) at 118 days of pregnancy and betamethasone at 125 days (BETA group), MPA at 118 days and saline at 125 days (MPA group) or saline at 118 and 125 days (SALINE group). The concentration of lactose, progesterone, cortisol and prolactin in maternal plasma was measured during pregnancy. After term parturition, the concentration of lactose in milk and maternal plasma was measured daily for 5 days. Lambs were weighed at birth and at 5 days of age; milk volume was measured on day 5. The concentration of lactose in maternal plasma increased significantly after betamethasone administration, corresponding to a fall in plasma progesterone. No changes in lactose were observed in MPA or SALINE ewes. Transient decreases in cortisol and increases in prolactin were observed in the BETA group, but not in either the MPA or SALINE group. After parturition, BETA ewes experienced reduced milk yield and lamb weight gain, and delayed increases in milk lactose levels compared with MPA and saline controls. This study demonstrated that, in sheep, antenatal glucocorticoid administration disrupted secretory activation, causing precocious mammary secretion before parturition and compromising postpartum milk production and lamb growth.
Comparative Genetic Mapping Between Octoploid and Diploid Fragaria Species Reveals a High Level of Colinearity Between Their Genomes and the Essentially Disomic Behavior of the Cultivated Octoploid Strawberry
Authors: Rousseau-Gueutin Mathieu , Lerceteau-Köhler Estelle , Barrot Laure , Sargent Daniel James , Monfort Amparo , Simpson David , Arús Pere , Guérin Guy , Denoyes-Rothan Béatrice
Published: July 2008

Macrosynteny and colinearity between Fragaria (strawberry) species showing extreme levels of ploidy have been studied through comparative genetic mapping between the octoploid cultivated strawberry (F. ×ananassa) and its diploid relatives. A comprehensive map of the octoploid strawberry, in which almost all linkage groups are ranged into the seven expected homoeologous groups was obtained, thus providing the first reference map for the octoploid Fragaria. High levels of conserved macrosynteny and colinearity were observed between homo(eo)logous linkage groups and between the octoploid homoeologous groups and their corresponding diploid linkage groups. These results reveal that the polyploidization events that took place along the evolution of the Fragaria genus and the more recent juxtaposition of two octoploid strawberry genomes in the cultivated strawberry did not trigger any major chromosomal rearrangements in genomes involved in F. ×ananassa. They further suggest the existence of a close relationship between the diploid Fragaria genomes. In addition, despite the possible existence of residual levels of polysomic segregation suggested by the observation of large linkage groups in coupling phase only, the prevalence of linkage groups in coupling/repulsion phase clearly demonstrates that the meiotic behavior is mainly disomic in the cultivated strawberry.
Pervasive Sex-Linked Effects on Transcription Regulation As Revealed by Expression Quantitative Trait Loci Mapping in Lake Whitefish Species Pairs (Coregonus sp., Salmonidae)
Authors: Derome N , Bougas B , Rogers S M , Whiteley A R , Labbe A , Laroche J , Bernatchez L
Published: July 2008

Mapping of expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) is a powerful means for elucidating the genetic architecture of gene regulation. Yet, eQTL mapping has not been applied toward investigating the regulation architecture of genes involved in the process of population divergence, ultimately leading to speciation events. Here, we conducted an eQTL mapping experiment to compare the genetic architecture of transcript regulation in adaptive traits, differentiating the recently evolved limnetic (dwarf) and benthic (normal) species pairs of lake whitefish. The eQTL were mapped in three data sets derived from an F1 hybrid-dwarf backcrossed family: the entire set of 66 genotyped individuals and the two sexes treated separately. We identified strikingly more eQTL in the female data set (174), compared to both male (54) and combined (33) data sets. The majority of these genes were not differentially expressed between male and female progeny of the backcross family, thus providing evidence for a strong pleiotropic sex-linked effect in transcriptomic regulation. The subtelomeric region of a linkage group segregating in females encompassed >50% of all eQTL, which exhibited the most pronounced additive effects. We also conducted a direct comparison of transcriptomic profiles between pure dwarf and normal progeny reared in controlled conditions. We detected 34 differentially expressed transcripts associated with eQTL segregating only in sex-specific data sets and mostly belonging to functional groups that differentiate dwarf and normal whitefish in natural populations. Therefore, these eQTL are not related to interindividual variation, but instead to the adaptive and historical genetic divergence between dwarf and normal whitefish. This study exemplifies how the integration of genetic and transcriptomic data offers a strong means for dissecting the functional genomic response to selection by separating mapping family-specific effects from genetic factors under selection, potentially involved in the phenotypic divergence of natural populations.
Two New Y-Linked Genes inDrosophila melanogaster
Authors: Vibranovski Maria D , Koerich Leonardo B , Carvalho A Bernardo
Published: July 2008

The Y chromosome and other heterochromatic regions present special challenges for genome sequencing and for the annotation of genes. Here we describe two new genes (ARY and WDY) on the Drosophila melanogaster Y, bringing its number of known single-copy genes to 12. WDY may correspond to the fertility factor kl-1.
Incorporation of Y′-Ty1 cDNA Destabilizes Telomeres in Saccharomyces cerevisiae Telomerase-Negative Mutants
Authors: Maxwell Patrick H , Curcio M Joan
Published: July 2008

Ty1 retrotransposons in Saccharomyces cerevisiae are activated by telomere erosion. Ty1-dependent reverse transcription of mRNA from subtelomeric Y′ repeats generates chimeric Y′-Ty1 cDNA. Here, we show that Y′-Ty1 cDNA is incorporated at eroding telomeres in the absence of telomerase. Telomeric incorporation of Y′-Ty1 cDNA promotes genome rearrangements.
A Recently Active Miniature Inverted-Repeat Transposable Element, Chunjie, Inserted Into an Operon Without Disturbing the Operon Structure in Geobacter uraniireducens Rf4
Authors: Chen Yong , Zhou Fengfeng , Li Guojun , Xu Ying
Published: July 2008

Miniature inverted-repeat transposable elements (MITEs) are short DNA transposons with terminal inverted repeat (TIR) signals and have been extensively studied in plants and other eukaryotes. But little is known about them in eubacteria. We identified a novel and recently active MITE, Chunjie, when studying the recent duplication of an operon consisting of ABC transporters and a phosphate uptake regulator in the chromosome of Geobacter uraniireducens Rf4. Chunjie resembles the other known MITEs in many aspects, e.g., having TIR signals and direct repeats, small in size, noncoding, able to fold into a stable secondary structure, and typically inserted into A + T-rich regions. At least one case of recent transposition was observed, i.e., the insertion of Chunjie into one copy of the aforementioned operon. As far as we know, this is the first report that the insertion of a MITE does not disrupt the operon structure.
Rifaximin for the Treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Lawrence Kenneth R. , Klee Jacqueline A.
Published: July 2008

Objective. To review the effectiveness and safety of rifaximin for the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy.

Methods. A literature search was conducted of MEDLINE (1966‐September 2007), the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (1995–2007), and the Cochrane Hepato‐Biliary Group Reviews (2003–2007). English‐language articles identified from the data sources were evaluated. All available studies were reviewed, including placebo‐controlled, treatment comparison, and open label.

Results. Rifaximin was effective in improving behavioral, laboratory, mental status, and intellectual abnormalities associated with hepatic encephalopathy. Some studies demonstrated superior and more rapid improvement in signs or symptoms of encephalopathy during treatment with rifaximin compared with nonabsorbable disaccharides (lactulose, lactitol). Patients treated with rifaximin also required less hospitalization, had shorter duration of hospitalization, and lower hospital charges compared with lactulose‐treated patients. Adverse effects of rifaximin were mostly minor gastrointestinal complaints; however, rifaximin was better tolerated than other pharmacologic treatments.

Conclusion. Rifaximin was at least equally effective as and in some studies superior to nonabsorbable disaccharides and antimicrobials in relieving signs or symptoms observed in patients with mild‐to‐moderately severe hepatic encephalopathy. Future clinical trials should focus on using standardized methods of evaluating mental status and limiting enrollment to patients with mild‐to‐moderate, episodic, persistent, or minimal hepatic encephalopathy. Well‐designed studies are needed to fully delineate the efficacy of rifaximin and other pharmacologic treatments for patients with hepatic encephalopathy.
Frequency of Inappropriate Continuation of Acid Suppressive Therapy After Discharge in Patients Who Began Therapy in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Murphy Catherine E. , Stevens Alison M. , Ferrentino Nicholas , Crookes Bruce A. , Hebert James C. , Freiburg Carter B. , Rebuck Jill A.
Published: July 2008

Study Objective. To determine the frequency with which patients who begin to receive stress ulcer prophylaxis in the surgical intensive care unit (SICU) are discharged receiving inappropriate acid suppressive therapy (AST).

Design. Prospective, observational evaluation.

Setting. Level 1 trauma center and academic tertiary care hospital.

Patients. A total of 248 consecutive adult patients admitted to the SICU during a 6‐month period who began to receive AST with a proton pump inhibitor or histamine2‐receptor antagonist.

Measurements and Main Results. In most patients (237 [95.6%] of 248), initiation of AST was associated with one or more risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding. Continuation of AST during hospitalization outside the SICU occurred in 215 patients (86.7%). Sixty patients (24.2%) were discharged from the hospital receiving AST: 52 patients (21.0%) went to skilled nursing facilities or rehabilitation centers, and eight (3.2%) were discharged home. Compared with those whose AST was discontinued in the hospital, patients who continued to receive AST after hospital discharge required extended mechanical ventilation (p=0.001), had twice as many risk factors for gastrointestinal bleeding (p<0.001), were frequently discharged with anticoagulant therapy (p<0.001), exhibited longer hospital and SICU stays (p<0.001), and more frequently demonstrated Glasgow Coma Scale scores of 8 or lower and/or had head injury (p<0.001), hepatic failure (p=0.004), and major trauma (p=0.049). Evaluation of continuation of AST during hospitalization revealed that only 7.4% (16/215) of patients at SICU transfer and 5.0% (3/60) of patients at hospital discharge had a compelling risk factor to continue AST as demonstrated by a coagulopathy at discharge; no patients required mechanical ventilation at hospital discharge.

Conclusion. Most patients inappropriately continued to receive stress ulcer prophylaxis during post‐SICU hospitalization. Presence of risk factors for stress ulcer‐related gastrointestinal bleeding at SICU admission appears to influence continuation of AST after discharge from the hospital. A low percentage (3.2%) of patients was discharged home receiving inappropriate AST, yet overall, few study patients demonstrated a compelling risk factor for continuation of AST.
Determination of a Lorazepam Dose Threshold for Using the Osmol Gap to Monitor for Propylene Glycol Toxicity
Authors: Yahwak Jason A. , Riker Richard R. , Fraser Gilles L. , Subak‐Sharpe Sarah
Published: July 2008

Study Objective. To determine a threshold dose for parenteral lorazepam when screening for propylene glycol toxicity with the osmol gap, and to characterize which osmol gap values are more predictive of toxic propylene glycol concentrations and resultant clinical toxicity.

Design. Prospective, two‐phase observational study.

Setting. Thirty‐two bed, multidisciplinary intensive care unit.

Patients. Thirty‐five adult patients receiving any dose of parenteral lorazepam (phase 1), and 14 patients receiving lorazepam in doses of 1 mg/kg/day or higher (phase 2).

Measurements and Main Results. Serum osmolality was measured every other day during lorazepam therapy, and the osmol gap (measured osmolality minus calculated osmolarity) was determined. A serum propylene glycol concentration was obtained when the osmol gap first exceeded 10. In phase 1, 35 patients were monitored for 186 patient‐days. Ten patients (29%) developed an osmol gap greater than 10; only one (10%) of these patients had propylene glycol concentrations greater than 18 mg/dl. In phase 2, 14 patients received lorazepam at a median dose of 631 mg (interquartile range [IQR] 437–972 mg) over a median of 5.5 days (IQR 4–8.75 days). Nine patients (64%) had propylene glycol concentrations greater than 18 mg/dl; six (67%) of these nine developed transient acute kidney injury, metabolic acidosis, or both. The correlation between osmol gap and propylene glycol concentration was 0.44 (p=0.006). An osmol gap of 10 or greater had a likelihood ratio of 4.4 to predict a propylene glycol concentration greater than 18 mg/dl. An osmol gap of 12 or greater had a likelihood ratio of 2.7 to predict the development of possible propylene glycol clinical toxicity.

Conclusion. Screening for propylene glycol toxicity with the osmol gap may be helpful for patients receiving intravenous lorazepam in doses of 1 mg/kg/day or higher. An osmol gap of 10 or greater was predictive of elevated propylene glycol concentrations, and values of 12 or greater were predictive of clinical changes suggestive of propylene glycol toxicity.
Aspirin Resistance: Disparities and Clinical Implications
Authors: Airee Anita , Draper Heather M. , Finks Shannon W.
Published: July 2008

Aspirin is one of the most widely prescribed drugs for the prevention of thrombosis in patients with vascular disease. Yet, aspirin is unable to prevent thrombosis in all patients. The term “aspirin resistance” has been used to broadly define the failure of aspirin to prevent a thrombotic event. Whether this is directly related to aspirin itself through biochemical aspirin resistance or treatment failure, or if it is because of aspirin's inability to overcome the thrombogenic aspects of the disease process itself, has not been elucidated. This can have dramatic clinical implications for a variety of vascular disease subsets and is cause for concern, considering the high prevalence of aspirin use for both primary and secondary prevention. Disparities exist in the rates of aspirin resistance among certain patient populations, such as women, patients with diabetes mellitus, and those with heart failure, and across clinical conditions, such as cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. Clinical trial data from studies observing resistance have revealed that regardless of study size, dose of aspirin, control for drug interactions and adherence, or assay used to measure platelet function, aspirin resistance is associated with an increased risk for adverse events. Although the evidence is mounting, there has yet to be a consensus on the appropriate clinical response to aspirin resistance.
A Stable Niche Supports Long-Term Maintenance of Human Epidermal Stem Cells in Organotypic Cultures
Authors: Muffler Sonja , Stark Hans-Jürgen , Amoros Mara , Falkowska-Hansen Berit , Boehnke Karsten , Bühring Hans-Jörg , Marmé Alexander , Bickenbach Jackie R. , Boukamp Petra
Published: July 2008

Stem cells in human interfollicular epidermis are still difficult to identify, mainly because of a lack of definitive markers and the inability to label human beings for label-retaining cells (LRCs). Here, we report that LRCs could be identified and localized in organotypic cultures (OTCs) made with human cells. Labeling cultures for 2 weeks with iododeoxyuridine (IdU) and then chasing for 6–10 weeks left <1% of basal cells retaining IdU label. Whole mounts demonstrated that LRCs were individually dispersed in the epidermal basal layer. Some LRCs, but not all, colocalized with cells expressing melanoma chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan, a putative stem cell marker. Although we found LRCs in both collagen- and scaffold-based OTCs, only the scaffold-OTCs supported long-term survival and regeneration. LRCs' short survival in collagen-OTCs was not due to loss of appropriate growth factors from fibroblasts. Instead, it was due to expression of metalloproteinases, especially matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-14, which caused collagen fragmentation, matrix degradation, and dislocation of specific basement membrane components bound to epidermal integrins. Blocking MMP activation not only abrogated MMP-dependent matrix degradation but also increased longevity of the epidermis and the LRCs in these cultures. Such findings indicate that the stem cell niche, the microenvironment surrounding and influencing the stem cell, is essential for stem cell survival and function, including long-term tissue regeneration.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Autophagic Death of Adult Hippocampal Neural Stem Cells Following Insulin Withdrawal
Authors: Yu Seong-Woon , Baek Seung-Hoon , Brennan Ryan T. , Bradley Christopher J. , Park Se Kyong , Lee Yoon Sun , Jun Eun Jung , Lookingland Keith J. , Kim Eun-Kyoung , Lee Heuiran , Goudreau John L. , Kim Seong Who
Published: July 2008

Novel therapeutic approaches using stem cell transplantation to treat neurodegenerative diseases have yielded promising results. However, survival of stem cells after transplantation has been very poor in animal models, and considerable efforts have been directed at increasing the viability of engrafted stem cells. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms that regulate survival and death of neural stem cells is critical to the development of stem cell-based therapies. Hippocampal neural (HCN) stem cells derived from the adult rat brain undergo cell death following insulin withdrawal, which is associated with downregulation of antiapoptotic Bcl-2 family members. To understand the type of cell death in HCN cells following insulin withdrawal, apoptosis markers were assessed. Of note, DNA fragmentation or caspase-3 activation was not observed, but rather dying cells displayed features of autophagy, including increased expression of Beclin 1 and the type II form of light chain 3. Electron micrographs showed the dramatically increased formation of autophagic vacuoles with cytoplasmic contents. Staurosporine induced robust activation of caspase-3 and nucleosomal DNA fragmentation, suggesting that the machinery of apoptosis is intact in HCN cells despite the apparent absence of apoptosis following insulin withdrawal. Autophagic cell death was suppressed by knockdown of autophagy-related gene 7, whereas promotion of autophagy by rapamycin increased cell death. Taken together, these data demonstrate that HCN cells undergo a caspase-independent, autophagic cell death following insulin withdrawal. Understanding the mechanisms governing autophagy of adult neural stem cells may provide novel strategies to improve the survival rate of transplanted stem cells for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Preserved tissue structure of efferent ductules in aromatase-deficient mice
Authors: Toda Katsumi , Okada Teruhiko , Hayashi Yoshihiro , Saibara Toshiji
Published: July 2008

Estrogen receptor α (Esr1) is proposed to play a critical role in the regulation of testicular fluid reabsorption at efferent ductules, and disruption of the Esr1 gene (Esr1−/−) resulted in marked dilation of the lumens of efferent ductules. This study was aimed to clarify whether disruption of the gene for aromatase (Ar), an enzyme responsible for estrogen biosynthesis, results in morphological and transcriptional alterations at efferent ductules as observed in Esr1−/− mice. Histology demonstrated structural preservation of the ducts in aromatase-deficient (Ar−/−) mice. Electron microscopic examinations reveal that endocytic apparatus and tubule-cisternal endoplasmic reticulum are present in non-ciliated cells irrespective of the genotypes. However, electron-dense and acid phosphatase-negative granules and apical tubules, which are components thought to be related to membrane recycling of endosomes, are observed only in wild-type (WT) and Ar−/− mice. By contrast, the Golgi complex is highly developed in Esr1−/− mice when compared with WT and Ar−/− mice. RT-PCR analysis reveals no significant differences in the expression levels of a subset of genes involved in ion transportation. Thus, from the structural and transcriptional points of view, the efferent ductules of Ar−/− mice are indistinguishable from those of WT mice. Moreover, data from electron microscopic examinations indicate the possible involvement of Esr1 in the regulation of vesicle recycling processes.
Serum and glucocorticoid regulated kinase and disturbed renal sodium transport in diabetes
Authors: Hills Claire E , Squires Paul E , Bland Rosemary
Published: July 2008

Diabetes is associated with a number of side effects including retinopathy, neuropathy, nephropathy and hypertension. Recent evidence has shown that serum and glucocorticoid regulated kinase-1 (SGK1) is increased in models of diabetic nephropathy. While clearly identified as glucocorticoid responsive, SGK1 has also been shown to be acutely regulated by a variety of other factors. These include insulin, hypertonicity, glucose, increased intracellular calcium and transforming growth factor-β, all of which have been shown to be increased in type II diabetes. The principal role of SGK1 is to mediate sodium reabsorption via its actions on the epithelial sodium channel (now known as sodium channel, nonvoltage-gated 1). Small alterations in the sodium resorptive capacity of the renal epithelia may have dramatic consequences for fluid volume regulation, and SGK1 maybe responsible for the development of hypertension associated with diabetes. This short commentary considers the evidence that supports the involvement of SGK1 in diabetic hypertension, but also discusses how aberrant sodium reabsorption may account for the cellular changes seen in the nephron.
Briefing: At the heart of society
Authors: Orr D.
Published: July 2008

David Orr became the 143rd president of the Institution of Civil Engineers in November 2007. He gave his inaugural speech on 6 November, outlining his priorities for his year as president, including: promoting the value of civil engineering; ensuring that the public understands how high professional standards protect them in their everyday life; trying to give civil engineers more recognition so that the public appreciate how ordinary people achieve extraordinary things every day and make our society a better place in which to live.
Warning: Subtle Aspects of Strategy Assessment May Affect Correlations among Spatial Tests
Authors: Glück Judith , Dünser Andreas , Steinbügl Karin , Kaufmann Hannes
Published: July 2008

In this study, preliminary to a larger experiment, 42 participants completed four different spatial tests and, after each test, a strategy questionnaire. For half of the participants, visualizational strategies were presented first in this questionnaire, and for the other half, analytical strategies. The order of strategy descriptions had effects on the strategies reported and on the intercorrelations among the spatial tests and between the spatial tests and an inductive-reasoning test. In the group first presented with visualizational strategies, intercorrelations among the spatial tests were higher and correlations with the reasoning test were lower than in the group first presented with analytical strategies. Bootstrap analyses with 100 random splits of the sample confirmed this result. The findings are interpreted as indications of a priming effect by the strategy descriptions which affected the way participants dealt with subsequent tests. Implications for strategy assessment are discussed.
California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory: Further Factor Analytic Examination
Authors: Walsh Catherine M. , Seldomridge Lisa A. , Badros Karen K.
Published: July 2008

The stability of the factor structure of the California Critical Thinking Disposition Inventory was re-examined using a convenience sample of 800 undergraduate students from nursing ( n = 520 first bachelors' and n = 185 second bachelors' students) and biology ( n = 95) enrolled in introductory courses in their majors at a 4-yr. mid-Atlantic public university. Ages ranged from 17 to 54 years ( M = 23.0, SD = 5.9), with 92 men and 707 women (1 missing). 685 participants identified themselves as Euro-American, 65 as African American, 9 as Hispanic, 26 as Asian, and 11 as “Other” (4 missing). The inventory developed by Facione in 1994 is a 75-item, forced-choice, adjective checklist, yielding seven subscores and a total score assessing testees' disposition toward critical thinking. A principal components factor analysis did not replicate the original factor structure of seven factors but supported the stability of a four-factor structure which had emerged in previous work by Walsh and Hardy and by Kakai. When the 75 original items were reduced to 25, the explained variance for the inventory improved from 27% to 44.95%. Thus, further investigation and continued refinement is warranted.
Height of Chair Seat and Movement Characteristics in Sit-to-Stand by Young and Elderly Adults
Authors: Demura Shinichi , Yamada Takayoshi
Published: July 2008

The height of a chair seat affects the burden on the lower limbs during the sit-to-stand (STS). To develop an objective test to evaluate muscle function of the lower limbs using floor reaction force during a STS, the relationship between chair-seat height and the burden on the lower legs must be assessed. To examine the influence of the chair-seat height, floor reaction forces during a STS performed with 5 chair heights adjusted to each subject's lower leg length were compared. The force production and quickness of movement tended to decrease in the phases of trunk flexion and knee and hip joint extension when performing a STS from a lower chair, when the chair height differed by 20% (6.2 cm) from the lower leg length, and was marked when the difference between chair height and lower leg length became larger. In 52 elderly and 50 young adults, floor reaction forces during a STS performed from a chair of the same height as subjects' lower leg lengths were compared. Elderly persons were inferior in force production (strength) and quickness of movement, which decreased as elderly stood up from a chair of a lower height.
Morning and Evening Personality Characteristics in a Sample of Young Italians
Authors: Cavallera G. M. , Giampietro M.
Published: July 2008

The goal of this study was to investigate associations of morning and evening personality types with personality dimensions in a convenient sample of 60 men and 60 women, ages 18 to 29 years. A short form of the Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire and a personality questionnaire Come mi vedo (How I see myself), based on the 5-factor model of personality, were given. Several personality dimensions appear to be significantly correlated with Morningness scores: Conscientiousness (positively) and Openmindedness (negatively). The analysis indicated morning types tend to reach their goals resolutely and to plan their steps, they prefer to be precise, tidy, punctual, trustworthy; they have a sense of duty and responsibility; they are also less original and less open to culture and novelties, less curious, conformist, traditionalist, and less well-informed, hardworking, steady, tenacious, and diligent, on the Come mi vedo.
Effect of Simultaneous Model Observation and Self-Modeling of Volleyball Skill Acquisition
Authors: Barzouka Karolina , Bergeles Nikolaos , Hatziharistos Dimitris
Published: July 2008

This study examined the effect of feedback with simultaneous skilled model observation and self-modeling on volleyball skill acquisition. 53 pupils 12 to 15 years old formed two experimental groups and one control group who followed an intervention program with 12 practice sessions for acquisition and retention of how to receive a ball. Groups received different types of feedback before and in the middle of each practice session. Reception performance outcome (score) and technique in every group were assessed before and at the end of the intervention program and during the retention phase. A 3 (Group) x 3 (Measurement Period) multivariate analysis of variance with repeated measures was applied to investigate differences. Results showed equivalent improvement in all three groups at the end of the intervention program. In conclusion, types of augmented feedback from the physical education teacher are effective in acquisition and retention of the skill for reception in volleyball.
Studies on Characterisation of Kinetically Active Cerium(IV) Species in Oxidation of α-Hydroxy Acids in Aqueous Micellar Sulfuric Acid Media
Authors: Das Asim K. , Bayen Ruhidas , Islam Monirul
Published: July 2008

Kinetics of the oxidation of α-hydroxy acids [HA], namely malic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid, by Ce(IV) in aqueous sulfuric acid media have been investigated both in the absence and presence of the cationic surfactant, N-cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) and the anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Under the conditions [HA]  [Ce(IV)], the reaction exhibits first-order kinetics both in [Ce(IV)] and [HA]. The rate retarding effect of HSO4- has been analysed and it has been noted that both Ce(SO4)2+ and Ce(SO4)2 are kinetically active but their relative contribution depends on the nature of the α-hydroxy acid and surfactant. The different rate constants in the presence and absence of surfactants have been determined with the corresponding activation parameters. SDS has been found to accelerate the rate process for all three α-hydroxy acids. CPC has been found to retard the oxidation of malic acid more than the other two α-hydroxy acids. In fact, for lactic acid, the rate is more or less insensitive to CPC. All these findings, including the micellar effects, have been interpreted in terms of the proposed reaction mechanism and partitioning behaviour of the different kinetically active species of Ce(IV) between the aqueous and pseudomicellar phases.
Stadt und Wald, eine neue Symbiose? (Essay) | Cities and forests – a new symbiosis? (essay)
Authors: Baccini Peter
Published: July 2008

Forests, from a natural sciences perspective, are long-living ecosystems. After fifty years of intensive environmental research, their crucial role in global and regional carbon and water cycles and in the development of biodiversity is now understood much better; therefore, the political efforts to protect forests have increased. However, if seen in too narrow a way, the paradigm of “protection” endangers the opening towards an integrated approach to urban design in which new and alternative types of forests may play an important role in the evolution of new cultural landscapes. It is a sociopolitical decision that is still to come.
L'après-pétrole et les forêts suisses: scénarios pour 2050 (essai) | Swiss forestry in the post-oil era: which perspectives for 2050? (essay)
Authors: Combe Jean
Published: July 2008

Forecasts for our planet predict that a certain number of today's global problems will undoubtedly be solved by the middle of this century. Switzerland too will directly or indirectly be affected by climate change, increasing shortage of drinking water, food, and energy resources – to mention only the key challenges. The globalisation of these critical issues will induce Swiss forestry to develop solutions and models which will be experimented at national level and could be implemented worldwide. By contributing actively and innovatively to a new form of society based on the sustainable use of natural resources, forest professionals will instigate a new era of forestry.
Herausforderungen für Forstwirtschaft und Waldforschung im 21. Jahrhundert (Essay) | Challenges for forestry and forest research in the 21st century (essay)
Authors: Kirchner James W.
Published: July 2008

Here I briefly outline several trends that are likely to affect Swiss forests and Swiss forestry in the coming decades. The climate in which Swiss forests will grow in the future is changing, and the socioeconomic forces affecting Swiss forestry are likely to change even more rapidly and unpredictably. Foresters make management decisions with consequences that last for decades. Therefore, they need to plan for future conditions that may differ substantially from those that prevail at present. Research can help, both in anticipating the changes that the future will bring, and in clarifying the risks and benefits of alternative management strategies.
Coriolus Versicolor Extracts: Relevance in Cancer Management
Authors: Szeto M.
Published: July 2008

The use of complementary and alternative medicine is gaining popularity worldwide. Cancer patients are major consumers of natural health products for a variety of reasons; the most common is to build the body’s defense by augmenting the immune system. Various species of mushrooms have been studied for decades because of their alleged immuno-stimulating properties. Active substances from more than fifty species of mushrooms have been isolated and found to have such properties. Of these, polysaccharide-K and polysaccharide-peptide, extracted from the mushroom Coriolus versicolor (CV), have been more systematically investigated in human cancer research. CV extracts are extremely popular in certain ethnic communities with a long tradition of employing healing practices that are unconventional in nature compared with western medicine approaches. Cancer patients are using CV extracts as part of their adjunctive cancer therapy. Cancer specialists and allied health care professionals may not be fully aware of such a choice especially when patients do not disclose the information. As communities in North America are becoming more culturally diverse, the rise in the use of natural health products is most likely inevitable. Better understanding of some popular natural health products and the reasons behind their use may foster communication between patient and health care provider and is crucial in helping patients address their needs and concerns in the hope of optimizing cancer care. Exploring the mechanism of CV extracts, their safety, risks and possible benefits is one step toward these goals.
Dose-Intensive Chemotherapy with Growth Factor or Autologous Bone Marrow or Stem-Cell Transplant Support in First-Line Treatment of Advanced or Metastatic Adult Soft Tissue Sarcoma: A Clinical Practice Guideline
Authors: Verma S. , Younus J. , Haynes A. E. , Stys-Norman D. , Blackstein M.
Published: July 2008

Questions: (1) In patients with inoperable locally advanced or metastatic soft tissue sarcoma, does first-line doseintensive chemotherapy supported by growth factor or autologous bone marrow or stem-cell transplantation improve response rate, time to disease progression, or survival as compared with standarddose chemotherapy? (2) What are the effects of first-line dose-intensive chemotherapy supported by growth factor or autologous bone marrow or stem-cell transplantation on toxicity and quality of life? Perspectives: Because therapeutic options for adult patients with advanced or metastatic soft tissue sarcoma are scarce and the possibility of cure for these patients is extremely limited, the Sarcoma Disease Site Group (DSG) felt that a review of the available literature on doseintensive chemotherapy for adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic soft tissue sarcoma and subsequent development of a clinical practice guideline based on the evidence were important. Methodology: A systematic review was developed and clinical recommendations relevant to patients in Ontario were drafted. The practice guideline report was reviewed and approved by the Sarcoma DSG, which comprises medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgeons, a pathologist, a methodologist, and community representatives. External review by Ontario practitioners was obtained through a mailed survey, the results of which were incorporated into the practice guideline. Final review and approval of the practice guideline was obtained from the Report Approval Panel. Practice Guideline: Based on the systematic review, consensus, and external review, the Sarcoma DSG makes these recommendations: (1) Dose-intensive chemotherapy with growth factor support is not recommended in the first-line treatment of patients with inoperable locally advanced or metastatic soft tissue sarcoma. (2) The data are insufficient to support the use of highdose chemotherapy with autologous bone marrow or stem-cell transplantation as first-line treatment in this group of patients. (3) Eligible patients should be encouraged to enter clinical trials assessing novel approaches or compounds. Qualifying Statements: High-dose chemotherapy with growth factor or autologous bone marrow or stem-cell transplantation has adverse effects similar to those seen with standard-dose chemotherapy. With high-dose regimens, the incidence of grades 3 and 4 thrombocytopenia is significantly higher, and neutropenic fever and febrile neutropenia occur more frequently. Compared with standard treatment, the rate of treatment-related death is also higher with highdose regimens.
Predictors of Positive Radial Margin Status in a Population-Based Cohort of Patients with Rectal Cancer
Authors: Phang P.T. , Kennecke H. , McGahan C.E. , MacFarlane J. , McGregor G. , Hay J.H.
Published: July 2008

Background: Surgical margin status is an important predictor of risk of relapse among patients with rectal cancer. Methods: Patients referred to the British Columbia Cancer Agency for consideration of adjuvant therapy for rectal adenocarcinoma were included. Predictors of margin positivity were determined from uni- and multivariate analysis. Results: Among 340 patients, 83% had negative resection margins. In 268 patients with resectable tumours, a significantly higher rate of margin positivity was observed in low rectal tumours (32.2%) as compared with midrectal (3.9%) and high rectal (14.3%) tumours. Among 59 patients with locally advanced rectal cancer treated with preoperative radiation (with or without chemotherapy), 32% with low tumours had margin positivity. Of patients with T4 tumours, 50% (11/22) had a positive resection margin. Conclusions: In a population cohort, distal-third rectal location, locally advanced presentation, and T4 cancer represent subgroups for whom further improvement in therapy is required.
Malignant Mesothelioma: Canadian Perspective and Research Directions
Authors: Lee C.W. , Martin J. , MacRae R. , Tsao M.S. , Nguyen E. , Johnston M. , Baas P. , Laurie S. , Feld R. , Murray N. , Shepherd F.A.
Published: July 2008

Since the 1960s, the incidence of malignant mesothelioma in Canada has increased dramatically because of work-related asbestos exposures. Treatment options are limited. Although chemotherapy is now an accepted standard in the management of advanced disease, uncertainty surrounds the roles of radical surgery and radiation. In March 2007, a symposium was held in Vancouver, B.C., to review the current approach to malignant mesothelioma in Canada and to discuss development of a national clinical research strategy.
Does Preoperative Positron Emission Tomography with Computed Tomography Predict Nodal Status in Endometrial Cancer? A Pilot Study
Authors: Nayot D. , Kwon J.S. , Carey M.S. , Driedger A.
Published: July 2008

Fewer than 20% of women with endometrial cancer have positive nodes, and an accurate noninvasive imaging modality to assess lymph node status would be helpful in selecting those who need lymphadenectomy. The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate positron emission tomography with computed tomography (pet–ct) in predicting nodal status before surgery for endometrial cancer. Twelve patients were enrolled at a single tertiary care centre. The sensitivity and specificity of preoperative pet–ct in predicting nodal status were 53.3% and 99.6% respectively. Using pet–ct, all metastatic nodes may not necessarily be detected, especially nodes with microscopic disease. The sensitivity of this imaging modality has to be improved before it can routinely be used in the preoperative evaluation of endometrial cancer.
The Cost Burden of Trastuzumab and Bevacizumab Therapy for Solid Tumours in Canada
Authors: Drucker A. , Skedgel C. , Virik K. , Rayson D. , Sellon M. , Younis T.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) such as trastuzumab and bevacizumab have become important yet expensive components of systemic cancer therapy across a variety of disease sites. We assessed the potential cost implications of adopting trastuzumab and bevacizumab therapy in the context of their potential utilization in breast, lung, and colorectal cancers. Design: We first estimated MAb costs per patient and treatment indication and then included the MAb acquisition cost and the costs of medical resource utilizations required for therapy delivery. Drug costs were based on 2005 average Canadian wholesale prices, assuming full drug delivery and uncomplicated cycles. A direct-payer perspective was undertaken, and results are reported in Canadian dollars. Potential lifetime costs were then derived according to constructed schema, which account for absolute numbers of target patients and systemic therapy utilization. We subsequently estimated costs of MAb therapy relative to total costs of conventional management without MAb therapy. Results: Trastuzumab costs $49,915 and $28,350 per patient treated in the adjuvant and metastatic breast cancer settings, respectively; bevacizumab costs $48,490 and $39,614 per patient treated in the metastatic lung and colorectal cancer settings, respectively. Potential lifetime absolute costs to Canada’s health care system were approximately $127 million and $299 million for trastuzumab and bevacizumab respectively, corresponding to an average increase in health care expenditure of approximately 19% for breast cancer and 21% for lung and colorectal cancer over conventional management without MAbs. Conclusions: Novel Mab-based therapies such as trastuzumab and bevacizumab will likely add a significant cost burden to Canada’s publicly funded health care system.
Trastuzumab: A Cardiologist’s Perspective
Authors: Côté Marc André
Published: July 2008

A review of the randomized clinical trials of adjuvant trastuzumab in human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2)—positive breast cancer demonstrates the great benefit of this monoclonal antibody whose potential cardiotoxicity is a fascinating problem for the cardiologist 1. [...]
Enhanced Cooperativity in Hydrolytic Kinetic Resolution of Epoxides using Poly(styrene) Resin‐Supported Dendronized Co‐(Salen) Catalysts
Authors: Goyal Poorva , Zheng Xiaolai , Weck Marcus
Published: July 2008

Excellent enantioselectivities and isolated yields have been achieved for the hydrolytic kinetic resolution of epoxides using a resin‐supported dendronized R,R‐(salen)Co catalyst with catalyst loadings as low as 0.04 mol%, the lowest metal loadings of any heterogeneous resin‐supported (salen)Co catalyst reported to date. In addition, the supported catalysts can be recycled and reused with comparable enantioselectivities. It is hypothesized that the high catalytic activity can be attributed to the flexible linker and the dendronized framework supporting the (salen)Co moieties on the resin thereby promoting cooperativity between two metal centers. This work opens up new opportunities for the design of highly active resin‐supported catalysts that catalyze transformations through a bimetallic pathway.
Bromodimethylsulfonium Bromide‐Silver Triflate: A New Powerful Promoter System for the Activation of Thioglycosides
Authors: Xiong De‐Cai , Zhang Li‐He , Ye Xin‐Shan
Published: July 2008

Bromodimethylsulfonium bromide (BDMS) in combination with silver triflate provides a very efficient thiophilic promoter system, capable of activating both “disarmed” and “armed” thioglycosides for glycosidic bond formation. The usefulness of this new promoter is illustrated by a successful reactivity‐based one‐pot oligosaccharide assembly.
Animal models of ventral body wall closure defects: A personal perspective on gastroschisis
Authors: Williams Trevor
Published: July 2008

Malformations affecting the ventral body wall comprise one of the leading categories of human birth defects. Gastroschisis is a particularly important body wall closure defect as its incidence is rising worldwide. Although the occurrence of such defects is relatively common their molecular and cellular basis is very poorly understood. A robust animal model system to study the etiology of gastroschisis would be very useful, but several problems currently hamper the identification of such a model. A concerted effort is required to recognize, characterize, and classify ventral body wall defects in animal model species so that progress can be made in determining the mechanisms of ventral body wall closure during human development as well as combating the increased incidence of gastroschisis worldwide. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.