bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defective Epidermal Innate Immunity and Resultant Superficial Dermatophytosis in Adult T-cell Leukemia/Lymphoma
Authors: Sawada Yu , Nakamura Motonobu , Kabashima-Kubo Rieko , Shimauchi Takatoshi , Kobayashi Miwa , Tokura Yoshiki
Published: May 2012

Purpose: Superficial dermatophytosis is quite commonly seen in patients with adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL), as approximately 50% of the patients develop cutaneous mycotic infections. Because superficially infected fungi in the stratum corneum of the epidermis cannot directly contact with T cells infiltrating in the upper dermis, some perturbation of epidermal innate immunity has been postulated. Interleukin (IL)-17–producing helper T cells (Th17) can induce the keratinocyte production of antimicrobial peptides such as human β defensin (HBD)-2 and LL-37, which play an essential role in cutaneous innate immunity.

Experimental Design: We investigated the frequency of circulating Th17 cells, serum levels of cytokines, and epidermal expression of HBD-1, 2, 3, and LL-37 in ATLL patients with or without superficial dermatophytosis.

Results: The frequency of peripheral Th17 cells and the serum level of IL-17 was significantly decreased in ATLL patients, whereas the serum IL-10 and TGF-β1 levels were increased as compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, ATLL patients with dermatophytosis had higher IL-10 and TGF-β1 levels and lower IL-17 levels than did those without dermatophytosis. Immunohistochemical study revealed that the epidermal expression of both HBD-2 and LL-37 were significantly lower in ATLL patients with dermatophytosis than in non-ATLL patients with dermatophytosis.

Conclusions: Taken together, these results suggest that the keratinocyte production of antimicrobial peptides promoted by Th17 cells is reduced in ATLL patients, leading to the perturbed innate immunity and the frequent occurrence of superficial dermatophytosis. Clin Cancer Res; 18(14); 3772–9. ©2012 AACR.
Multisite Validation Study to Determine Performance Characteristics of a 92-Gene Molecular Cancer Classifier
Authors: Kerr Sarah E. , Schnabel Catherine A. , Sullivan Peggy S. , Zhang Yi , Singh Veena , Carey Brittany , Erlander Mark G. , Highsmith W. Edward , Dry Sarah M. , Brachtel Elena F.
Published: May 2012

Purpose: Accurate tumor classification is essential for cancer management as patient outcomes improve with use of site- and subtype-specific therapies. Current clinicopathologic evaluation is varied in approach, yet standardized diagnoses are critical for determining therapy. While gene expression–based cancer classifiers may potentially meet this need, imperative to determining their application to patient care is validation in rigorously designed studies. Here, we examined the performance of a 92-gene molecular classifier in a large multi-institution cohort.

Experimental Design: Case selection incorporated specimens from more than 50 subtypes, including a range of tumor grades, metastatic and primary tumors, and limited tissue samples. Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tumors passed pathologist-adjudicated review between three institutions. Tumor classification using a 92-gene quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was conducted on blinded tumor sections from 790 cases and compared with adjudicated diagnoses.

Results: The 92-gene assay showed overall sensitivities of 87% for tumor type [95% confidence interval (CI), 84–89] and 82% for subtype (95% CI, 79–85). Analyses of metastatic tumors, high-grade tumors, or cases with limited tissue showed no decrease in comparative performance (P = 0.16, 0.58, and 0.16). High specificity (96%–100%) was showed for ruling in a primary tumor in organs commonly harboring metastases. The assay incorrectly excluded the adjudicated diagnosis in 5% of cases.

Conclusions: The 92-gene assay showed strong performance for accurate molecular classification of a diverse set of tumor histologies. Results support potential use of the assay as a standardized molecular adjunct to routine clinicopathologic evaluation for tumor classification and primary site diagnosis. Clin Cancer Res; 18(14); 3952–60. ©2012 AACR.
α-Catulin Marks the Invasion Front of Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Is Important for Tumor Cell Metastasis
Authors: Cao Christine , Chen Yibu , Masood Rizwan , Sinha Uttam K. , Kobielak Agnieszka
Published: May 2012

Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) comprise the most common types of human epithelial cancers. One subtype, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), is a particularly aggressive cancer with poor prognosis due to late diagnosis and lymph node metastasis. Of all the processes involved in carcinogenesis, local invasion and distant metastasis are clinically the most relevant, but are the least well understood on a molecular level. Here, we find that in vivo, the α-catenin homologue—α-catulin, a protein originally reported to interact with Lbc Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factor, is highly expressed at the tumor invasion front and in the metastatic streams of cells in both malignant hHNSCCs and a mouse model of oral SCC. Knockdown of α-catulin in hHNSCC cell lines dramatically decrease the migratory and invasive potential of those cells in vitro and metastatic potential in xenotransplants in vivo. Analysis of tumors deficient in α-catulin showed that the tumor cells are unable to invade the surrounding stroma. Accordingly, transcriptional profiling of those tumors revealed that α-catulin ablation is accompanied by changes in genes involved in cell migration and invasion. Interestingly enough, in vitro experiments show that an upregulation of α-catulin expression correlates with the transition of tumor cells from an epithelial to a mesenchymal morphology, as well as an upregulation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers vimentin and snail. Overall, these results strongly indicate that α-catulin contributes to the invasive behavior of metastatic cells and may be used as a prognostic marker and future therapeutic target for patients with cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 10(7); 892–903. ©2012 AACR.
Amino Acid Balance with Extended Daily Diafiltration in Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Chua Horng Ruey , Baldwin Ian , Fealy Nigel , Naka Toshio , Bellomo Rinaldo
Published: May 2012

Background: The impact of hybrid dialysis therapies on amino acid (AA) balance in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury is unknown. Methods: We examined prospectively the AA balance with extended daily diafiltration (EDDF). Results: We studied 7 patients. AA clearances with EDDF ranged from 21.6 ml/min (tryptophan) to 66.9 ml/min (taurine). AA loss was 4.2 (IQR 1.4–12.3) g/day and 4.5% of daily protein intake for patients on enteral nutrition (EN). Percentage AA loss per hour on EDDF was highest for glutamine (32.1%) and lowest for glutamic acid (0.8%). Blood AA levels correlated with corresponding EDDF losses. Median total nitrogen appearance was 25.0 (IQR 20.6–29.3) g/day for patients on EN. This resulted in a negative nitrogen balance of –10.7 (IQR –16.6 to –1.4) g/day, of which 6.5% was attributable to AA loss. Conclusions: AA loss with EDDF was limited, but with much individual variability, and contributed to a strongly negative daily nitrogen balance.
Involvement of the Endogenous Cannabinoid 2 Ligand 2-Arachidonyl Glycerol in Allergic Inflammation
Authors: Mimura Takayuki , Oka Saori , Koshimoto Hiroyuki , Ueda Yoshifumi , Watanabe Yoshihiro , Sugiura Takayuki
Published: May 2012

Background: Cannabinoid (CB) 2 is expressed on immune and inflammatory cells. Identification of 2-arachidonyl glycerol (2-AG) and anandamide as endogenous CB2 ligands has allowed investigations of the roles of CB2 and its endogenous ligand system in inflammatory cells. However, the roles of this receptor-ligand system in inflammatory and allergic immune responses in vivo have not been fully elucidated. Methods: Two mouse allergy models, namely ear dermatitis induced by 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene and allergic bronchitis induced by ovalbumin, were analyzed for 2-AG amounts in allergic tissues, with reference to allergic and inflammatory symptoms. To investigate the gene expression via CB2 in inflammatory cells, human promyelocytic HL-60 cells were stimulated by the CB2 ligand 2-AG ether and analyzed using a DNA microarray. Results: In the ear dermatitis model, the 2-AG amount increased upon serial 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene challenges and was correlated with ear weight gain. The increased ear thickness in this allergy model was clearly suppressed in CB2 knockout mice, suggesting that the generated endogenous CB2 ligands induce ear thickness through aberrant inflammatory responses and remodeling mediated via CB2. In the allergic bronchitis model, the 2-AG level in bronchoalveolar lavage was increased and sustained during the elevation of inflammatory cell infiltration. The DNA microarray analysis of human HL-60 cells revealed that 2-AG ether induced expressions of not only inflammatory chemokines/cytokines but also of cell growth factors. Conclusion: Our data strongly suggest that endogenous CB2 ligands upregulated upon disease progression in allergic models are involved in aberrant alterations of both inflammatory responses and tissue cell growth.
Diagnosis of Latex Allergy: The Importance of Hev b 11
Authors: Nettis E. , Di Leo E. , Calogiuri G.F. , Delle Donne P. , Di Staso M. , Ferrannini A. , Vacca A.
Published: May 2012

We present the cases of 5 patients with a positive clinical history of cutaneous symptoms due to contact with latex products. A latex allergological assessment was made through skin prick tests (SPTs) both with commercial latex extracts and extemporaneous glove extracts, and serum-specific IgE to latex and glove-use tests. In addition, serum-specific IgE to recombinant allergens for Hevea brasiliensis was dosed. Molecular diagnostics in association with the glove-use test and, to a lesser extent, the SPTs with glove eluate are useful diagnostic tests to confirm the diagnosis of latex allergy in patients with mucocutaneous symptoms.
Differentiation of Interstitial Cells of Cajal in the Human Distal Colon
Authors: Radenkovic Goran , Abramovic Mirjana
Published: May 2012

At the end of the embryonic period of human development, interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are present in the esophagus, stomach, and proximal duodenum, around the inception of the myenteric plexus (MP) ganglia. In the small and large bowel, ICC appear later. The object of the present study was to determine the timing of appearance and pattern of distribution of ICC in the human embryonic and fetal distal colon. Human distal colon specimens were obtained from 8 embryos and 14 fetuses without gastrointestinal disorders. The specimens were 7–16 weeks of gestational age. The specimens were exposed to anti-c-kit antibodies to investigate ICC differentiation. Enteric plexuses were immunohistochemically examined using anti-neuron-specific enolase, and the differentiation of smooth muscle cells was studied with anti-desmin antibodies. In the distal colon, ICC emerged at weeks 10–11 of the fetal period in the form of two parallel belts of densely packed cells extending at the submucous plexus (SMP) and the MP level. These cells correspond to ICC of the SMP (ICC-SMP) and ICC of the MP (ICC-MP). The simultaneous appearance of ICC at the SMP and MP level in the distal colon can be explained by the fact that there are differences in the migration of neural crest cells in particular portions of the digestive tube. In conclusion, in humans, there was a difference in the patterns of development of ICC in the distal colon compared to the rest of the gut.
A Search for Predictive Factors for Hypersensitivity Reactions to Paclitaxel and Platinum Salts in Chemotherapy for Gynecologic Pelvic Neoplasms
Authors: Piovano E. , Pivetta E. , Modaffari P. , Martra F. , Baima Poma C. , Perotto S. , Tripodi E. , Zanfagnin V. , Zola P. , Ferrero A.
Published: May 2012

Aims: To investigate the frequency of and predictive factors for hypersensitivity reactions (HR) to taxanes and platinum salts in a cohort of patients treated for pelvic gynecologic malignancies. Methods: The medical records of all patients with gynecologic pelvic neoplasms treated with chemotherapy at the Department of Gynecologic Oncology, AO Mauriziano Umberto I of Turin, from September 2007 through August 2008, were retrospectively reviewed. Two multivariate models, regarding carboplatin and taxane chemotherapy, respectively, were performed to evaluate the potential predictive value of various clinical features. Results: The incidence of HR was 14% (22/157). Multivariate models showed that menopausal women had a significantly lower probability of HR (OR 0.12, CI 0.02–1.13, p = 0.06 for the carboplatin model and OR 0.05, CI 0.01–0.63, p = 0.02 for the taxane model) while a history of systemic hypersensitivity was associated with a higher but non-significant risk of HR (OR 2.64, CI 0.78–8.95, p = 0.11, for the carboplatin model and OR 3.42, CI 0.94–12.45, p = 0.06, for the taxane model). Conclusion: We confirmed a history of hypersensitivity as a risk factor for HR. Other larger cohorts should be analyzed: we need to find new predictive factors in order to select women who should be submitted to experimental prophylactic strategies.
An Exonic Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ Coactivator-1α Variation May Mediate the Resting Energy Expenditure through a Potential Regulatory Role on Important Gene Expression in This Pathway
Authors: Mirzaei Khadijeh , Hossein-nezhad Arash , Emamgholipour Solaleh , Ansar Hasti , Khosrofar Mahtab , Tootee Ali , Alatab Soudabeh
Published: May 2012

Background/Aims: We studied peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PPARGC1A) gene variations at the 23815227–23815706 positions and examined their possible correlation with obesity-related conditions and resting energy expenditure (REE). We investigated the expression of PPARGC1A, mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), which play key roles in cellular energy expenditure, in a cellular model consisting of peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and compared them with various genotypes of the PPARGC1A gene. Methods: In total, 100 normal-weight and 129 obese subjects participated in the current study. All subjects were assessed for REE and body composition. We sequenced the PPARGC1A gene. Real-time PCR was used for determining the PPARGC1A, MAPK, and UCP2 gene expression. Results: There were significant differences in terms of body mass index, fat mass, low-density lipoprotein, insulin levels, REE/kg body weight, and REE/lean body mass among rs17574213 genotypes. There were significant differences in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels among the various genotypes of Gly482Ser (rs8192678) and rs3755863. The relative PPARGC1A, MAPK, and UCP2 gene expressions had similar trends in the two studied SNPs, and the expression level of these genes was lowest in the TT genotype of Gly482Ser and rs3755863 and highest in the CC genotype of Gly482Ser and rs3755863. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that PPARGC1A variations may influence PPARGC1A expression and the coordinating regulators of downstream targets in energy homeostasis. Further study is needed to shed some light on this process.
Interventions Using High-Technology Communication Devices: A State of the Art Review
Authors: Baxter Susan , Enderby Pam , Evans Philippa , Judge Simon
Published: May 2012

Background/Aims: In the last 20 years the range of high-technology augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) aids has rapidly expanded. This review aimed to provide a ‘state of the art’ synthesis, to provide evidence-based information for researchers, potential users and service providers. Methods: Electronic databases were searched from 2000 to 2010, together with reference lists of included papers and review papers. The review considered work of any design which reported an intervention using high-tech AAC with people who have communication difficulties (excluding those with solely hearing or visual loss) published in peer-reviewed journals. Results: Sixty-five papers reporting interventions using high-tech AAC were identified. There was evidence that high-technology AAC may be beneficial across a range of diagnoses and ages. The evidence, however, is currently drawn from studies using designs considered to be at high risk of bias. Conclusion: The review suggests that the high level of individual variation in outcome requires a greater understanding of characteristics of clients who may or may not benefit from this technology. Also, the wide range of outcomes measured requires further work in the field to establish what a ‘good outcome’ from intervention may be.
Identification of Two Novel Mutations in SLC29A3 Encoding an Equilibrative Nucleoside Transporter (hENT3) in Two Distinct Syrian Families with H Syndrome: Expression Studies of SLC29A3 (hENT3) in Human Skin
Authors: Farooq Muhammad , Moustafa Rasha Mohammad , Fujimoto Atsushi , Fujikawa Hiroki , Abbas Ossama , Kibbi Abdul Ghani , Kurban Mazen , Shimomura Yutaka
Published: May 2012

Background: H syndrome is a rare autosomal recessive genetic disorder which involves the skin and other systemic organs and is caused by mutations in the SLC29A3 gene. Objectives: To disclose the molecular basis of H syndrome in two Syrian families, and to determine the localization of hENT3 in human skin. Methods: DNA from two Syrian families with H syndrome was analyzed through direct sequencing, and the expression of hENT3 in normal human skin was investigated by in situ hybridization and immunostaining. Results: We identified two novel mutations in the SLC29A3 gene: a homozygous splice site mutation IVS1+2T>G predicted to cause a splicing error, and a homozygous missense mutation c.1157G>A (p.R386Q) which substituted highly conserved amino acid residue in a transmembrane domain of hENT3. Furthermore, we demonstrate that hENT3 is expressed in histiocytes as well as in endothelium of blood and lymphatic vessels in normal human skin. Conclusions: Our results further enhance the mutation spectrum of the SLC29A3 gene for this rare genetic disorder, and also suggest potential pathomechanisms for the skin lesions resulting from SLC29A3 mutations.
Predictors of Objectively Measured Medication Nonadherence in Adults With Heart Failure
Authors: Riegel Barbara , Lee Christopher S. , Ratcliffe Sarah J. , De Geest Sabina , Potashnik Sheryl , Patey Megan , Sayers Steven L. , Goldberg Lee R. , Weintraub William S.
Published: May 2012

Background—

Medication nonadherence rates are high. The factors predicting nonadherence in heart failure remain unclear.

Methods and Results—

A sample of 202 adults with heart failure was enrolled from the northeastern United States and followed for 6 months. Specific aims were to describe the types of objectively measured medication adherence (eg, taking, timing, dosing, drug holidays) and to identify contributors to nonadherence 6 months after enrollment. Latent growth mixture modeling was used to identify distinct trajectories of adherence. Indicators of the 5 World Health Organization dimensions of adherence (socioeconomic, condition, therapy, patient, and healthcare system) were tested to identify contributors to nonadherence. Two distinct trajectories were identified and labeled persistent adherence (77.8%) and steep decline (22.3%). Three contributors to the steep decline in adherence were identified. Participants with lapses in attention (adjusted OR, 2.65;
P
=0.023), those with excessive daytime sleepiness (OR, 2.51;
P
=0.037), and those with ≥2 medication dosings per day (OR, 2.59;
P
=0.016) were more likely to have a steep decline in adherence over time than to have persistent adherence.

Conclusions—

Two distinct patterns of adherence were identified. Three potentially modifiable contributors to nonadherence have been identified.
Comparative Effectiveness of Population Interventions to Improve Access to Reperfusion for ST-Segment–Elevation Myocardial Infarction in Australia
Authors: Ranasinghe Isuru , Turnbull Fiona , Tonkin Andrew , Clark Robyn A. , Coffee Neil , Brieger David
Published: May 2012

Background—

Improving timely access to reperfusion is a major goal of ST-segment–elevation myocardial infarction care. We sought to compare the population impact of interventions proposed to improve timely access to reperfusion therapy in Australia.

Methods and Results—

Australian hospitals, population, and road network data were integrated using Geographical Information Systems. Hospitals were classified into those that provided primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) or fibrinolysis. Population impact of interventions proposed to improve timely access to reperfusion (PPCI, fibrinolysis, or both) were modeled and compared. Timely access to reperfusion was defined as the proportion of the population capable of reaching a fibrinolysis facility ≤60 minutes or a PPCI facility ≤120 minutes from emergency medical services activation. The majority (93.2%) of the Australian population has timely access to reperfusion, mainly (53%) through fibrinolysis. Only 40.2% of the population had timely access to PPCI, and access to PPCI services is particularly limited in regional and nonexistent in remote areas. Optimizing the emergency medical services’ response or increasing PPCI services resulted in marginal improvement in timely access (1.8% and 3.7%, respectively). Direct transport to PPCI facilities and interhospital transfer for PPCI improves timely access to PPCI for 19.4% and 23.5% of the population, respectively. Prehospital fibrinolysis markedly improved access to timely reperfusion in regional and remote Australia.

Conclusions—

Significant gaps in timely provision of reperfusion remain in Australia. Systematic implementation of changes in service delivery has potential to improve timely access to PPCI for a majority of the population and improve access to fibrinolysis to those living in regional and remote areas.
Cardiomyocytes Derived From Pluripotent Stem Cells Recapitulate Electrophysiological Characteristics of an Overlap Syndrome of Cardiac Sodium Channel Disease
Authors: Davis Richard P. , Casini Simona , van den Berg Cathelijne W. , Hoekstra Maaike , Remme Carol Ann , Dambrot Cheryl , Salvatori Daniela , Oostwaard Dorien Ward-van , Wilde Arthur A.M. , Bezzina Connie R. , Verkerk Arie O. , Freund Christian , Mummery Christine L.
Published: May 2012

Background—

Pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) offer a new paradigm for modeling genetic cardiac diseases, but it is unclear whether mouse and human PSCs can truly model both gain- and loss-of-function genetic disorders affecting the Na
+
current (
I
Na
) because of the immaturity of the PSC-derived cardiomyocytes. To address this issue, we generated multiple PSC lines containing a Na
+
channel mutation causing a cardiac Na
+
channel overlap syndrome.

Method and Results—

Induced PSC (iPSC) lines were generated from mice carrying the
Scn5a

1798insD/
+

(Scn5a-het) mutation. These mouse iPSCs, along with wild-type mouse iPSCs, were compared with the targeted mouse embryonic stem cell line used to generate the mutant mice and with the wild-type mouse embryonic stem cell line. Patch-clamp experiments showed that the Scn5a-het cardiomyocytes had a significant decrease in
I
Na
density and a larger persistent
I
Na
compared with Scn5a-wt cardiomyocytes. Action potential measurements showed a reduced upstroke velocity and longer action potential duration in Scn5a-het myocytes. These characteristics recapitulated findings from primary cardiomyocytes isolated directly from adult Scn5a-het mice. Finally, iPSCs were generated from a patient with the equivalent
SCN5A

1795insD/
+

mutation. Patch-clamp measurements on the derivative cardiomyocytes revealed changes similar to those in the mouse PSC-derived cardiomyocytes.

Conclusion—

Here, we demonstrate that both embryonic stem cell- and iPSC-derived cardiomyocytes can recapitulate the characteristics of a combined gain- and loss-of-function Na
+
channel mutation and that the electrophysiological immaturity of PSC-derived cardiomyocytes does not preclude their use as an accurate model for cardiac Na
+
channel disease.
UV Absorption Hygrometer for Fast-Response Airborne Water Vapor Measurements
Authors: Beaton Stuart P. , Spowart Mike
Published: May 2012

A next-generation vacuum-ultraviolet (Lyman-alpha) absorption hygrometer for high-rate research aircraft humidity measurements designed by the National Center for Atmospheric Research is described. It retains the high data rate, optical and mechanical simplicity, and low maintenance of previous Lyman-alpha hygrometers, while incorporating modern electronics and rugged, long-lived commercially available lamps and detectors. The mass of the sensing head is 2.0 kg in a volume of 3700 cm3, while the power supply is 1.3 kg mass in a volume of 1100 cm3. Power draw is 0.2 A at 120 V alternating current (AC). In bench and aircraft flight testing the prototype shows a bandwidth of 35 Hz and mixing ratio noise of ±0.5% over a water vapor mixing ratio range of 2–15 g kg−1. This range can be scaled to lower mixing ratios by increasing the pathlength. This performance enables measurements of water vapor concentration with high spatial resolution from research aircraft. The prototype instrument has flown over 380 h with minimal maintenance or repairs.
The Danger in Deception
Authors: Elise Dianne
Published: May 2012

Certain potential precursors to heterosexual women’s experience of partner infidelity are explored as these dynamics unfold within the oedipal crisis—the “betrayal” by the oedipal objects. As each child moves into the oedipal phase, he or she comes to recognize not only desire for the mother, but the mother’s desire for the father. A doubling of this experience of “deception,” encountered first in relation to the mother, and then repeated with the father, may be especially pronounced for a girl, as she is likely to inhabit more fully her bisexual potential in negotiating the expected shift of object choice from mother to father. “Deceived” by her primary maternal oedipal object, a girl sets forth toward her paternal oedipal object with “fidelity” already an issue, and with faith in her mind’s ability to determine reality already shaken. Undermined trust in self and other is the context in which she begins the oedipal relation to her heterosexual object. This path is quite distinct from that traveled by the heterosexual boy. Clinical material illustrates the assault on one’s mind, on one’s confidence to determine what is true, that is a central aspect of both oedipal and adult betrayal.
Association Between Epicardial Fat Thickness and Weight Homeostasis Hormones in Patients With Noncachectic Heart Failure
Authors: Karayannis George , Giamouzis Gregory , Tziolas Nikolaos , Georgoulias Panagiotis , Skoularigis John , Mikhailidis Dimitri P. , Triposkiadis Filippos
Published: May 2012

The relationship between echocardiographically measured epicardial fat thickness (EFT) and plasma concentrations of leptin, ghrelin, and adiponectin has not been evaluated in patients with noncachectic heart failure (HF). Patients with noncachectic HF and age- and sex-matched controls did not differ significantly in EFT, whereas EFT values showed significant positive correlation with body mass index (BMI) in both groups and were negatively related with brain natriuretic peptide and positively with log leptin values in the HF group. In the control group, a positive correlation with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and a negative correlation with log ghrelin were found. In multivariable analysis, log leptin was a significant predictor of EFT in patients with HF, but this effect was not retained after adjusting for BMI. In contrast, log ghrelin and hsCRP were significant predictors of EFT in controls even after adjusting for BMI.
Community Colleges, Budget Cuts, and Jobs
Authors: Crookston Andrew , Hooks Gregory
Published: May 2012

In the decades following World War II, a significant expansion of community colleges occurred throughout the United States. As the baby boom generation came of age, demand for higher education spiked, and policy makers allocated the requisite funding to expand institutions of higher education. This expansion, including vigorous funding from federal, state, and local units of government, was politically popular. This openhanded support ended in the latter decades of the twentieth century as hostility to paying taxes and to public spending mounted. In recent decades, community colleges have competed with other social expenditures, such as prisons and health care demands, for scarce public resources. And, in a number of states, community colleges have fared poorly in this competition. Using multivariate analyses and data gathered from several sources, including the American Association of Community Colleges, the authors examine the impacts of community colleges on local employment trends. Their research focuses on rural counties over four time periods between 1976 and 2004. This focus is important, as rural areas have faced severe and chronic economic decline over the study period. Their research (specifically for the 1976-1983 and 1991-1997 panels) provides evidence that established community colleges made a significant contribution to employment growth. However, for the most recent panel (i.e., 1998-2004), the coefficient for community colleges is negative. An examination of the interaction between community colleges and states’ fiscal contexts provides evidence that this decline may be the result of states cutting back their funding levels for community colleges.
Wishful Information Preference
Authors: Kappes Heather Barry , Oettingen Gabriele
Published: May 2012

When pursuing set goals or intentions, people prefer to acquire information about the pros rather than the cons of their goal pursuit. Little is known about information preferences at earlier stages, when people are not yet serious about pursuing a given future. In the present three studies, positive fantasies that depicted an idealized desired future—compared with fantasies that questioned whether the future would be so ideal—created a preference for pros over cons, just like set goals or intentions have been shown to do. Positive fantasies created a stronger preference for pros versus cons when people were not serious about pursuing an imagined future or had just foregone an opportunity to do so. Results suggest that before people are engaged in serious pursuits, positive fantasies spur the selective acquisition of pro information, which may lead to poor decisions even if the acquired information is carefully deliberated on later.
Biases in Affective Forecasting and Recall in Individuals With Depression and Anxiety Symptoms
Authors: Wenze Susan J. , Gunthert Kathleen C. , German Ramaris E.
Published: May 2012

The authors used experience sampling to investigate biases in affective forecasting and recall in individuals with varying levels of depression and anxiety symptoms. Participants who were higher in depression symptoms demonstrated stronger (more pessimistic) negative mood prediction biases, marginally stronger negative mood recall biases, and weaker (less optimistic) positive mood prediction and recall biases. Participants who were higher in anxiety symptoms demonstrated stronger negative mood prediction biases, but positive mood prediction biases that were on par with those who were lower in anxiety. Anxiety symptoms were not associated with mood recall biases. Neither depression symptoms nor anxiety symptoms were associated with bias in event prediction. Their findings fit well with the tripartite model of depression and anxiety. Results are also consistent with the conceptualization of anxiety as a “forward-looking” disorder, and with theories that emphasize the importance of pessimism and general negative information processing in depressive functioning.
The Chain is Only as Strong as the Weakest Link
Authors: Sharma Andy
Published: May 2012

Objectives: This research article tests Litwak and Longino’s first-move hypothesis by taking chain migration into account. Besides adding to the body of literature examining later-life migration and disability using large-scale and current data, my scholarly contribution is noteworthy because this analysis is among the handful which accounts for the influence of historical flows. Methods: Using the American Community Survey (ACS) from 2006 to 2007, the author employs multinomial logit (MNL) to test the likelihood of migrating within the state, outside the state, Florida, or Arizona based on mobility difficulty, personal care limitation, physical limitation, and cognitive difficulty. In addition, the author constructs chain migration variables from Census inflow–outflow tabulations and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) county-to-county migration files. Results: The descriptive statistics and MNL estimates show the probability of migration is greater for individuals with fewer disabilities (i.e., better health), even after controlling for long-standing patterns of established inflows. More specifically, migration to Florida is greater for those without physical limitations and cognitive difficulties, married, with greater income, and higher education levels. Interestingly, the author discovers migration to Florida remains high despite disability status, if and only if the individual comes from an area of chain migration. Discussion: Given the first wave of the baby boom generation having reached retirement age in 2011 and a steady increase in these numbers for the upcoming few decades, examining this group’s geographic mobility serves a practical purpose for economic growth. Several independent studies show migrating retirees boost local businesses and provide increased sales tax revenue. However, states must balance this financial gain with increased use of health services, roadways, and community resources.
A Study on Offer Rejection (Abort Rate) at Wipro Technologies Ltd.
Authors: Ramanaiah G. , Xavier Priya
Published: May 2012

Backing out of job offers is a big issue especially in country like India. Good amount of time and effort is wasted to find a new replacement and projects can and do get delayed and all these translates to revenue loss. This study was conducted at Wipro among 134 aborted candidates using structured questionnaire to find the reasons for offer rejection. Results indicate most of them feel that Wipro does not revert with convincing deal after they drop the offer. 61.4 per cent of the aborted candidates are not satisfied with the salary offered.
A randomized controlled trial of Cognitive Sensory Motor Training Therapy on the recovery of arm function in acute stroke patients
Authors: Chanubol Ratanapat , Wongphaet Parit , Chavanich Napapit , Werner Cordula , Hesse Stefan , Bardeleben Anita , Merholz Jan
Published: May 2012

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of Cognitive Sensory Motor Training Therapy (Perfetti’s method) vis-à-vis conventional occupational therapy in the recovery of arm function after acute stroke.

Design:

Prospective randomized controlled trial.

Setting:

Two rehabilitation centers in Bangkok, Thailand.

Subjects:

Forty first-time acute stroke patients without severe cognitive or language impairment.

Intervention:

All subjects were randomly divided into two groups; one was treated using Perfetti’s method and the other using conventional occupational therapy. Each group underwent therapy for 30 minutes, five times a week for four weeks.

Main measures:

The primary variable was arm function as assessed by the Action Research Arm Test; secondary variables were the extended Barthel Index and the box and block test score.

Results:

The intention-to-treat analysis revealed no statistically significant differences between the two groups at the end of treatment for any variable.

Conclusions:

There was no evidence of a difference between Cognitive Sensory Motor Training Therapy of Perfetti’s method and conventional occupational therapy with respect to the restoration of hand and arm function after a stroke.
Primary trigeminal afferents are the main source for stimulus-induced CGRP release into jugular vein blood and CSF
Authors: Hoffmann Jan , Wecker Sascha , Neeb Lars , Dirnagl Ulrich , Reuter Uwe
Published: May 2012

Background: Administration of inflammatory soup (IS) leads to a significant release of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Whether IS-induced CGRP release originates in primary or secondary neurons of the trigeminovascular system has not been clarified.

Methods: We determined CGRP release into the external jugular vein and in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) following intracisternal IS administration using an in vivo rat model. We further performed polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry of the trigeminal ganglion and brainstem (trigeminal nucleus caudalis). To further elucidate a primary vs. secondary origin, experiments were repeated after neonatal capsaicin treatment (NCT) as this treatment destroys primary trigeminal afferents.

Results: IS-induced CGRP release into the external jugular vein and CSF were significantly reduced after NCT in both compartments but inhibition was more pronounced in jugular vein blood than in CSF. Baseline CGRP levels were not affected by NCT. PCR results show that following NCT, CGRP mRNA was significantly reduced in the trigeminal ganglion but not in the brainstem. Immunohistochemistry of the TG and brainstem support these results.

Conclusions: We conclude that resting state CGRP levels can be maintained after trigeminal denervation of the meninges. However, for functional purposes primary trigeminal afferents are mandatory as they are the major source for stimulus-induced CGRP release.
Spine and Axial Skeleton Injuries in the National Football League
Authors: Mall Nathan A. , Buchowski Jacob , Zebala Lukas , Brophy Robert H. , Wright Rick W. , Matava Matthew J.
Published: May 2012

Background:

The majority of previous literature focusing on spinal injuries in American football players is centered around catastrophic injuries; however, this may underestimate the true number of these injuries in this athletic cohort.

Purpose:

The goals of this study were to (1) report the incidence of spinal and axial skeleton injuries, both minor and severe, in the National Football League (NFL) over an 11-year period; (2) determine the incidence of spinal injury by injury type, anatomic location, player position, mechanism of injury, and type of exposure (practice vs game); and (3) determine the average number of practices and days missed because of injury for each injury type.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiological study.

Methods:

All documented injuries to the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine; pelvis; ribs; and spinal cord were retrospectively analyzed using the NFL’s injury surveillance database over a period of 11 seasons from 2000 through 2010. The data were analyzed by the number of injuries per athlete-exposure, the anatomic location and type of injury, player position, mechanism of injury, and number of days missed per injury.

Results:

A total of 2208 injuries occurred to the spine or axial skeleton over an 11-season interval in the NFL, with a mean loss of 25.7 days per injury. This represented 7% of the total injuries during this time period. Of these 2208 injuries, 987 (44.7%) occurred in the cervical spine. Time missed from play was greatest for thoracic disc herniations (189 days/injury). Other injuries that had a mean time missed greater than 30 days included (in descending order) cervical fracture (120 days/injury), cervical disc degeneration/herniation (85 days/injury), spinal cord injury (77 days/injury), lumbar disc degeneration/herniation (52 days/injury), thoracic fracture (34 days/injury), and thoracic nerve injury (30 days/injury). Offensive linemen were the most likely to suffer a spinal injury, followed by defensive backs, defensive linemen, and linebackers. Blocking and tackling were the 2 most frequent injury mechanisms reported.

Conclusion:

Spinal and axial skeleton injuries occur frequently in the NFL and can result in significant time missed from practices and games. Tackling and blocking result in the greatest number of injuries, and players performing these activities are the most likely to sustain a spinal injury. The results of this study may be used as an impetus to formulate strategies to prevent spinal injuries in American football players.
The Colony Environment, but Not Direct Contact with Conspecifics, Influences the Development of Circadian Rhythms in Honey Bees
Authors: Eban-Rothschild Ada , Shemesh Yair , Bloch Guy
Published: May 2012

Honey bee ( Apis mellifera) workers emerge from the pupae with no circadian rhythms in behavior or brain clock gene expression but show strong rhythms later in life. This postembryonic development of circadian rhythms is reminiscent of that of infants of humans and other primates but contrasts with most insects, which typically emerge from the pupae with strong circadian rhythms. Very little is known about the internal and external factors regulating the ontogeny of circadian rhythms in bees or in other animals. We tested the hypothesis that the environment during early life influences the later expression of circadian rhythms in locomotor activity in young honey bees. We reared newly emerged bees in various social environments, transferred them to individual cages in constant laboratory conditions, and monitored their locomotor activity. We found that the percentage of rhythmic individuals among bees that experienced the colony environment for their first 48 h of adult life was similar to that of older sister foragers, but their rhythms were weaker. Sister bees isolated individually in the laboratory for the same period were significantly less likely to show circadian rhythms in locomotor activity. Bees experiencing the colony environment for only 24 h, or staying for 48 h with 30 same-age sister bees in the laboratory, were similar to bees individually isolated in the laboratory. By contrast, bees that were caged individually or in groups in single- or double-mesh enclosures inside a field colony were as likely to exhibit circadian rhythms as their sisters that were freely moving in the same colony. These findings suggest that the development of the circadian system in young adult honey bees is faster in the colony than in isolation. Direct contact with the queen, workers, or the brood, contact pheromones, and trophallaxis, which are all important means of communication in honey bees, cannot account for the influence of the colony environment, since they were all withheld from the bees in the double-mesh enclosures. Our results suggest that volatile pheromones, the colony microenvironment, or both influence the ontogeny of circadian rhythms in honey bees.
Solitary and Gregarious Locusts Differ in Circadian Rhythmicity of a Visual Output Neuron
Authors: Gaten Edward , Huston Stephen J. , Dowse Harold B. , Matheson Tom
Published: May 2012

Locusts demonstrate remarkable phenotypic plasticity driven by changes in population density. This density dependent phase polyphenism is associated with many physiological, behavioral, and morphological changes, including observations that cryptic solitarious (solitary-reared) individuals start to fly at dusk, whereas gregarious (crowd-reared) individuals are day-active. We have recorded for 24-36 h, from an identified visual output neuron, the descending contralateral movement detector (DCMD) of Schistocerca gregaria in solitarious and gregarious animals. DCMD signals impending collision and participates in flight avoidance maneuvers. The strength of DCMD’s response to looming stimuli, characterized by the number of evoked spikes and peak firing rate, varies approximately sinusoidally with a period close to 24 h under constant light in solitarious locusts. In gregarious individuals the 24-h pattern is more complex, being modified by secondary ultradian rhythms. DCMD’s strongest responses occur around expected dusk in solitarious locusts but up to 6 h earlier in gregarious locusts, matching the times of day at which locusts of each type are most active. We thus demonstrate a neuronal correlate of a temporal shift in behavior that is observed in gregarious locusts. Our ability to alter the nature of a circadian rhythm by manipulating the rearing density of locusts under identical light-dark cycles may provide important tools to investigate further the mechanisms underlying diurnal rhythmicity.
The Circadian Clock Modulates Enamel Development
Authors: Lacruz Rodrigo S. , Hacia Joseph G. , Bromage Timothy G. , Boyde Alan , Lei Yaping , Xu Yucheng , Miller Joseph D. , Paine Michael L. , Snead Malcolm L.
Published: May 2012

Fully mature enamel is about 98% mineral by weight. While mineral crystals appear very early during its formative phase, the newly secreted enamel is a soft gel-like matrix containing several enamel matrix proteins of which the most abundant is amelogenin ( Amelx). Histological analysis of mineralized dental enamel reveals markings called cross-striations associated with daily increments of enamel formation, as evidenced by injections of labeling dyes at known time intervals. The daily incremental growth of enamel has led to the hypothesis that the circadian clock might be involved in the regulation of enamel development. To identify daily rhythms of clock genes and Amelx, we subjected murine ameloblast cells to serum synchronization to analyze the expression of the circadian transcription factors Per2 and Bmal1 by real-time PCR. Results indicate that these key genetic regulators of the circadian clock are expressed in synchronized murine ameloblast cell cultures and that their expression profile follows a circadian pattern with acrophase and bathyphase for both gene transcripts in antiphase. Immunohistological analysis confirms the protein expression of Bmal and Cry in enamel cells. Amelx expression in 2-day postnatal mouse molars dissected every 4 hours for a duration of 48 hours oscillated with an approximately 24-hour period, with a significant approximately 2-fold decrease in expression during the dark period compared to the light period. The expression of genes involved in bicarbonate production ( Car2) and transport ( Slc4a4), as well as in enamel matrix endocytosis ( Lamp1), was greater during the dark period, indicating that ameloblasts express these proteins when Amelx expression is at the nadir. The human and mouse Amelx genes each contain a single nonconserved E-box element within 10 kb upstream of their respective transcription start sites. We also found that within 2 kb of the transcription start site of the human NFYA gene, which encodes a positive regulator of amelogenin, there is an E-box element that is conserved in rodents and other mammals. Moreover, we found that Nfya expression in serum-synchronized murine ameloblasts oscillated with a strong 24-hour rhythm. Taken together, our data support the hypothesis that the circadian clock temporally regulates enamel development.
Women, Pregnancy, and Health Information Online
Authors: Song Felicia Wu , West Jennifer Ellis , Lundy Lisa , Smith Dahmen Nicole
Published: May 2012

While the Internet has emerged as a significant resource for women negotiating the questions and circumstances that arise during conception, pregnancy and childbirth, it remains unclear what role the Internet plays in challenging the current biomedical paradigm and empowering women to make meaningful choices. This article explores how women use the Internet to manage their pregnancies and mediate their doctor–patient relationships, particularly examining the role of social class and personal health history in shaping such Internet use. Drawing from in-depth interviews with white middle-class mothers, the findings show that rather than using technology to resist the dominant biomedical paradigm, most women turned to online resources that affirmed mainstream medical authority and continued to rely on their doctors. By providing the means to confirm normalcy and take control in their reproductive experiences, the Internet enables socially privileged women to more fully perform the informed patient role in order to demonstrate their competence as mothers.