bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting solid tumors with non‐pathogenic obligate anaerobic bacteria
Authors: Taniguchi Shun’ichiro , Fujimori Minoru , Sasaki Takayuki , Tsutsui Hiroko , Shimatani Yuko , Seki Keiichi , Amano Jun
Published: May 2010

Molecular‐targeting drugs with fewer severe adverse effects are attracting great attention as the next wave of cancer treatment. There exist, however, populations of cancer cells resistant to these drugs that stem from the instability of tumor cells and/or the existence of cancer stem cells, and thus specific toxicity is required to destroy them. If such selectivity is not available, these targets may be sought out not by the cancer cell types themselves, but rather in their adjacent cancer microenvironments by means of hypoxia, low pH, and so on. The anaerobic conditions present in malignant tumor tissues have previously been regarded as a source of resistance in cancer cells against conventional therapy. However, there now appears to be a way to make use of these limiting factors as a selective target. In this review, we will refer to several trials, including our own, to direct attention to the utilizable anaerobic conditions present in malignant tumor tissues and the use of bacteria as carriers to target them. Specifically, we have been developing a method to attack solid cancers using the non‐pathogenic obligate anaerobic bacterium Bifidobacterium longum as a vehicle to selectively recognize and target the anaerobic conditions in solid cancer tissues. We will also discuss the existence of low oxygen pressure in tumor masses in spite of generally enhanced angiogenesis, overview current cancer therapies, especially the history and present situation of bacterial utility to treat solid tumors, and discuss the rationality and future possibilities of this novel mode of cancer treatment. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Differential expression of miRNAs in the visceral adipose tissue of patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Estep M. , Armistead D. , Hossain N. , Elarainy H. , Goodman Z. , Baranova A. , Chandhoke V. , Younossi Z. M.
Published: May 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 487–497

Background  Progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can be facilitated by soluble molecules secreted by visceral adipose tissue (VAT). MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are likely to regulate some of these molecular pathways involved in pathogenesis of NAFLD.

Aim  To profile miRNA expression in the visceral adipose tissue of patients with NAFLD.

Methods  Visceral adipose tissue samples were collected from NAFLD patients and frozen. Patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD were divided into non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (n = 12) and non‐NASH (n = 12) cohorts controlled for clinical and demographic characteristics. Extracted total RNA was profiled using TaqMan Human MicroRNA arrays. Univariate Mann–Whitney comparisons and multivariate regression analysis were performed to compare miRNA profiles.

Results  A total of 113 miRNA differentially expressed between NASH patients and non‐NASH patients (P < 0.05). Of these, seven remained significant after multiple test correction (hsa‐miR‐132, hsa‐miR‐150, hsa‐miR‐433, hsa‐miR‐28‐3p, hsa‐miR‐511, hsa‐miR‐517a, hsa‐miR‐671). Predicted target genes for these miRNAs include insulin receptor pathway components (IGF1, IGFR13), cytokines (CCL3, IL6), ghrelin/obestatin gene, and inflammation‐related genes (NFKB1, RELB, FAS). In addition, two miRNA species, hsa‐miR‐197 and hsa‐miR‐99, were significantly associated with pericellular fibrosis in NASH patients (P < 0.05). Levels of IL‐6 in the serum negatively correlated with the expression levels of all seven miRNAs capable of down regulating IL‐6 encoding gene.

Conclusions  miRNA expression from VAT may contribute to the pathogenesis of NAFLD – a finding which may distinguish relatively simple steatosis from NASH. This could help identify potential targets for pharmacological treatment regimens and candidate biomarkers for NASH.
Systematic review: self‐management support interventions for irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Dorn S. D.
Published: May 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 513–521

Background  Irritable bowel syndrome is an extremely common and costly condition. Because there is no cure, patients must be supported to manage their own condition.

Aim  To assess systematically the interventions used to support irritable bowel syndrome patient self‐management.

Methods  A search of PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and PsycINFO was performed to identify all studies that involved self‐management support interventions for irritable bowel syndrome. Studies that compared the self‐management‐related intervention to a control group were included.

Results  Eleven studies that involved a total of 1657 patients were included. For nearly all studies, the intervention was associated with statistically significant benefits. However, across studies there was significant heterogeneity in terms of sample size, diagnostic criteria, study setting, study design, primary outcome, statistical analyses and study quality. Therefore, individual study results could not be statistically combined.

Conclusions  Many self‐management support interventions appear benefit patients with irritable bowel syndrome. However, studies were limited by methodological flaws. Furthermore, feasibility in ‘real world’ clinical practice is uncertain. Thus, practical self‐management interventions that can be applied across various clinical settings should be developed, and then tested in well‐designed clinical trials.
Potential role of the cannabinoid receptor CB1 in the pathogenesis of erosive and non‐erosive gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Calabrese C. , Spisni E. , Liguori G. , Lazzarini G. , Valerii M. C. , Strillacci A. , Gionchetti P. , Pagotto U. , Campieri M. , Rizzello F.
Published: May 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 603–611

Background  Cannabinoid (CB) receptors have been located in brain areas involved in the triggering of TLESRs as well as in the nodose ganglion from which vagal afferents emanate. The distribution of CB1 receptors has been investigated in the human gastrointestinal mucosa, as expression of inflammatory process.

Aim  To evaluate the CB1 expression in oesophageal mucosa.

Methods  A total of 87 consecutive subjects were enrolled: 10 controls, 39 NERD and 38 erosive oesophagitis. Eight specimens were taken from macroscopically normal mucosa. Five were processed by haematoxylin–eosin, MIB1/CB1 evaluation and three for the RNA and proteins extraction.

Results  The mean MIB1‐LI value was 31% and 22% in NERD and ERD patients, respectively, compared to 68% in the healthy subjects. Mean CB1mRNA/GUSB mRNA value of the controls was 0.66, while in GERD patients, it was 0.28. In NERD and ERD, the mean values of CB1/GUSB were 0.38 and 0.17, respectively, with highly significant differences between the NERD vs. ERD groups. Semi‐quantitative analysis of CB1 expression, performed with WB, shows in NERD patients a higher CB1 receptor expression than ERD patients.

Conclusions  With this study, we showed for the first time the presence of CB1 receptors in the human oesophageal epithelium.
Clinical trial: the incidence of NSAID‐associated endoscopic gastric ulcers in patients treated with PN 400 (naproxen plus esomeprazole magnesium) vs. enteric‐coated naproxen alone
Authors: Goldstein J. L. , Hochberg M. C. , Fort J. G. , Zhang Y. , Hwang C. , Sostek M.
Published: May 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 401–413

Background  Gastroprotective co‐therapy may reduce the risk of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID)‐associated gastric ulcers, but adherence is suboptimal.

Aim  To compare the incidence of gastric ulcers with PN 400 [enteric‐coated (EC) naproxen 500 mg and immediate‐release esomeprazole 20 mg], or EC naproxen.

Methods  Two randomized, double‐blind, multicentre studies (PN400‐301, PN400‐302). Patients [stratified by low‐dose aspirin (≤325 mg) use] aged ≥50 years or 18–49 years with a history of ulcer, received PN 400 BID (301, n = 218; 302, n = 210) or EC naproxen 500 mg BID (301, n = 216; 302, n = 210) for 6 months. The primary endpoint was the cumulative incidence of endoscopic gastric ulcers.

Results  The cumulative incidence of gastric ulcers was significantly lower with PN 400 vs. EC naproxen (301: 4.1% vs. 23.1%, P < 0.001; 302: 7.1% vs. 24.3%, P < 0.001). PN 400 was associated with a lower combined incidence of gastric ulcers vs. EC naproxen in low‐dose aspirin users (n = 201) (3.0% vs. 28.4%, P < 0.001) and non‐users (n = 653) (6.4% vs. 22.2%, P < 0.001). The incidence of, and discontinuations due to, upper gastrointestinal (UGI) AEs was significantly lower with PN 400 relative to EC naproxen (P < 0.01, both studies).

Conclusions  PN 400 significantly reduces the incidence of gastric ulcers, regardless of low‐dose aspirin use, in at‐risk patients, and is associated with improved UGI tolerability relative to EC naproxen (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00527782).
The use of cone beam computed tomography in the conservative management of dens invaginatus: a case report
Authors: Patel S.
Published: May 2010

Patel S. The use of cone beam computed tomography in the conservative management of dens invaginatus: a case report. International Endodontic Journal.

Aim  To report the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the assessment of dens invaginatus.

Summary  Chronic periradicular periodontitis associated with an infected invagination was diagnosed in an immature mandibular lateral incisor tooth. A CBCT scan revealed essential information for the management of the tooth. There was no communication between the invagination and the main root canal. Endodontic treatment was carried out on the invagination. The root canal with a vital pulp was left untreated, thus allowing the tooth to mature and continue to develop.

Key learning points 

 The true nature of dens invaginatus cannot always be estimated from conventional radiographs.

 Cone beam computed tomography is a useful diagnostic tool in the management of dens invaginatus.
The effect of roasting on the nutritional and antioxidant properties of yellow and white maize varieties
Authors: Oboh Ganiyu , Ademiluyi Adedayo O. , Akindahunsi Afolabi A.
Published: May 2010

Maize varieties (yellow and white) were roasted for 17 min; and allowed to cool, and later milled into powder. The nutritional evaluation (proximate composition, mineral and antinutrient content determination) and antioxidant properties investigation (reducing power, free radicals scavenging ability and Fe2+ chelating ability) of the product was subsequently carried out. The result of the study revealed that roasting caused a significant increase (P < 0.05) in the crude fat, carbohydrate, Ca, Na, Mg and Zn content. Conversely, a significant decrease (P < 0.05) was observed in crude protein, crude fibre, Fe and K content. A significant decrease in the phytate content was also observed. However, the reduced phytate content did not have sparing effect on Zn bioavailability. Roasting significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the extractible phenol and flavonoid content of the maize varieties. The antioxidant properties (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydracyl free radical scavenging ability and Fe2+ chelating ability) followed the phenolic content pattern. However, roasting caused a significant increase in the ferric reducing antioxidant power of the maize varieties. Thus, roasting reduced the protein content of maize but also increased the energy value and antioxidant capacity as exemplified by high reducing power.
Analyses of PRMT1 proteins in human colon tissues from Hirschsprung disease patients
Authors: Wu T.‐t. , Tsai T.‐w. , Shen Y.‐t. , Hsu J.‐d. , Yang L.‐c. , Li C.
Published: May 2010

Background  Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) catalyzes the majority of arginine methylation in cells and plays important roles in the differentiation and development of neurons. It is also implicated in the regulation of nitric oxide synthetase (NOS). Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is characterized by the absence of intramural ganglion cells in the nerve plexuses of the distal gut.

Methods  Western blot analyses revealed reduced PRMT1 protein levels in the aganglionosis segments of HSCR patients. Immunohistochemistry detected PRMT1 expression in the colonic mucosa, the enteric nervous system (ENS) and endothelial cells. Specific and strong PRMT1 expression in neuron cell bodies of the plexus was demonstrated by immunofluorescent double‐labeling with neuron‐specific marker HuC/D.

Key Results  In the mucosa, PRMT1 was detected at all crypt cells. Intensive PRMT1 staining was detected in the submucosal and the myenteric plexuses in normal or oligoganglionosis segments. Aganglionosis segments from HSCR patients contain no plexuses, and thus not labeled with PRMT1. The phenomenon is specific to the megacolon of HSCR as strong PRMT1 staining was observed in plexuses of the rectal ectasia segments (dilated rectum and distal sigmoid not related with aganglionosis) from anorectal malformation patients. Furthermore, PRMT1 was also present in the same neuronal cells expressing neuronal NOS in the plexuses.

Conclusions & Inferences  We suggest that PRMT1 can be a useful marker for HSCR. This study is the first illustration of PRMT1 protein expression in human tissues from non‐cancerous disease and set up the base for further investigations of PRMT1 function in ENS development and intestinal motility.
Gentamicin‐attenuated Leishmania infantum: cellular immunity production and protection of dogs against experimental canine leishmaniasis
Authors: DANESHVAR H. , MOLAEI M. M. , KAMIABI H. , BURCHMORE R. , HAGAN P. , STEPHEN PHILLIPS R.
Published: May 2010

An attenuated line of Leishmania infantum (L. infantum H‐line) has been established by culturing promastigotes in vitro under gentamicin pressure. Here, we show that L. infantum H‐line induced significantly higher levels of IFN‐γ and lower levels of IL‐10 compared with those in dogs infected with L. infantum wild type (WT). Anti‐Leishmania‐specific total IgG, IgG1, and IgG2 antibodies were present in the serum of all infected dogs, with levels of IgG2 subclass highest in the sera of dogs inoculated with L. infantum H‐line. Relatively high levels of IgG1 were found in the sera of dogs infected with L. infantum WT. Six of seven dogs immunized intradermally (i.d.) with the attenuated line later showed a positive skin test to leishmanin, whereas the dogs infected with L. infantum WT did not. No clinical abnormalities were observed, and no parasites found in the visceral organs of the dogs inoculated intravenously (i.v.) with L. infantum H‐line over 24 months post‐inoculation. Dogs which had been immunized with L. infantum H‐line i.d. 12 months previously were protected against challenge with L. infantum WT. These data suggest that the L. infantum H‐line was safe and induced a protection which is correlated with cellular immunity in dogs.
Information and decision support needs of parents considering amniocentesis: interviews with pregnant women and health professionals
Authors: Durand Marie‐Anne , Stiel Mareike , Boivin Jacky , Elwyn Glyn
Published: May 2010

Objective  Our aim was to clarify and categorize information and decision support needs of pregnant women deciding about amniocentesis.

Background  Prenatal screening for Down’s syndrome (implemented in routine practice) generates a quantifiable risk of chromosome abnormality. To increase certainty, chromosomal material needs to be obtained through amniocentesis or other diagnostic test. Amniocentesis carries risks of pregnancy loss.

Methods  Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with health professionals and pregnant women who had considered amniocentesis. The data were qualitatively analysed using a two‐step thematic content analysis.

Results  A sample of 17 health professionals and 17 pregnant women were interviewed. Professionals demonstrated little consensus regarding the miscarriage rate, the potential consequences of amniocentesis testing and the uncertainty associated with the tests. Furthermore, methods employed to communicate risks varied between professionals. Pregnant women reported heightened stress and anxiety. Twelve out of 17 women described the decision as complex and difficult to make while five participants were satisfied with the information and support provided. Women would have liked more information about the risks involved, the results, the consequences of an amniocentesis and associated emotional difficulties. Women highlighted the need for personalized information, presented in multiple ways, while remaining simple and unbiased.

Conclusions  There is variation in the provision of information related to amniocentesis testing. The majority of pregnant women reported difficulties making a decision and identified dimensions of information and decision support where improvements were needed.
‘What difference does it make?’ Finding evidence of the impact of mental health service user researchers on research into the experiences of detained psychiatric patients
Authors: Gillard Steven , Borschmann Rohan , Turner Kati , Goodrich‐Purnell Norman , Lovell Kathleen , Chambers Mary
Published: May 2010

Background  Interest in the involvement of members of the public in health services research is increasingly focussed on evaluation of the impact of involvement on the research process and the production of knowledge about health. Service user involvement in mental health research is well‐established, yet empirical studies into the impact of involvement are lacking.

Objective  To investigate the potential to provide empirical evidence of the impact of service user researchers (SURs) on the research process.

Design  The study uses a range of secondary analyses of interview transcripts from a qualitative study of the experiences of psychiatric patients detained under the Mental Health Act (1983) to compare the way in which SURs and conventional university researchers (URs) conduct and analyse qualitative interviews.

Results  Analyses indicated some differences in the ways in which service user‐ and conventional URs conducted qualitative interviews. SURs were much more likely to code (analyse) interview transcripts in terms of interviewees’ experiences and feelings, while conventional URs coded the same transcripts largely in terms of processes and procedures related to detention. The limitations of a secondary analysis based on small numbers of researchers are identified and discussed.

Conclusions  The study demonstrates the potential to develop a methodologically robust approach to evaluate empirically the impact of SURs on research process and findings, and is indicative of the potential benefits of collaborative research for informing evidence‐based practice in mental health services.
Do children with Adams‐Oliver syndrome require endocrine follow‐up? New information on the phenotype and management
Authors: Kalina MA , Kalina‐Faska B , Paprocka J , Jamroz E , Pyrkosz A , Marszał E , Małecka‐Tendera E
Published: May 2010

Kalina MA, Kalina‐Faska B, Paprocka J, Jamroz E, Pyrkosz A, Marszał E, Małecka‐Tendera E. Do children with Adams‐Oliver syndrome require endocrine follow‐up? New information on the phenotype and management.

Adams‐Oliver syndrome (AOS) is a rare genetic condition in which the main diagnostic criteria are terminal transverse limb defects and aplasia cutis congenita. Within the spectra of the clinical phenotype of AOS, anthropometric abnormalities have also been reported. We present growth pattern along with hormonal assays in three patients with AOS, one being treated with growth hormone (GH). In Patient 1 (a boy, age 1.9 years), with delayed psychomotor development, epilepsy, deficits of body mass and height, cryptorchidism, low insulin‐like growth factor (IGF‐1) levels were found and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed hypoplasia of midline structures of the central nervous system (CNS). In Patient 2 (a girl, age 3.6 years) no significant abnormalities in development, body mass, height or neuroimaging were found. In Patient 3 (a girl, age 8.2 years), with delayed psychomotor development and short stature, low IGF‐1 levels and partial GH deficiency were found; MRI revealed small pituitary and polymicrogyria. The girl started GH treatment, improving height velocity and gross coordination. Based on these observations, it seems that intensity of auxologic and hormonal deficits in children with AOS is associated with CNS lesions. Hence, there are indications for neuroimaging and interdisciplinary follow‐up of psychomotor development, growth and puberty in this subset of patients with AOS.
High frequency and allele‐specific differences of BRCA1 founder mutations in breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients from Belarus
Authors: Bogdanova NV , Antonenkova NN , Rogov YI , Karstens JH , Hillemanns P , Dörk T
Published: May 2010

Bogdanova NV, Antonenkova NN, Rogov YI, Karstens JH, Hillemanns P, Dörk T. High frequency and allele‐specific differences of BRCA1 founder mutations in breast cancer and ovarian cancer patients from Belarus.

Breast cancer and ovarian cancer are common malignancies in Belarus accounting for about 3500 and 800 new cases per year, respectively. For breast cancer, the rates and age of onset appear to vary significantly in regions differentially affected by the Chernobyl accident. We assessed the frequency and distribution of three BRCA1 founder mutations 5382insC, 4153delA and Cys61Gly in two hospital‐based series of 1945 unselected breast cancer patients and of 201 unselected ovarian cancer patients from Belarus as well as in 1019 healthy control females from the same population. Any of these mutations were identified in 4.4% of the breast cancer patients, 26.4% of the ovarian cancer patients and 0.5% of the controls. In the breast cancer patients, BRCA1 mutations were strongly associated with earlier age at diagnosis, with oestrogen receptor (ER) negative tumours and with a first‐degree family history of breast cancer, although only 35% of the identified BRCA1 mutation carriers had such a family history. There were no marked differences in the regional distribution of BRCA1 mutations, so that the significant differences in age at diagnosis and family history of breast cancer patients from areas afflicted by the Chernobyl accident could not be explained by BRCA1. We next observed a higher impact and a shifted mutational spectrum of BRCA1 in the series of Byelorussian ovarian cancer patients where the three founder mutations accounted for 26.4% (53/201). While the Cys61Gly mutation appeared underrepresented in ovarian cancer as compared with breast cancer cases from the same population (p = 0.01), the 4153delA mutation made a higher contribution to ovarian cancer than to breast cancer (p < 0.01). BRCA1 mutations were significantly enriched among ovarian cancer cases with a first‐degree family history of breast or ovarian cancer, whereas the median age at ovarian cancer diagnosis was not different between mutation carriers and non‐carriers. Taken together, these results identify three BRCA1 founder mutations as key components of inherited breast and ovarian cancer susceptibility in Belarus and might have implications for cancer prevention, treatment and genetic counselling in this population.
Revealing the human mutome
Authors: Chen JM , Férec C , Cooper DN
Published: May 2010

Chen JM, Férec C, Cooper DN. Revealing the human mutome.

The number of known mutations in human nuclear genes, underlying or associated with human inherited disease, has now exceeded 100,000 in more than 3700 different genes (Human Gene Mutation Database). However, for a variety of reasons, this figure is likely to represent only a small proportion of the clinically relevant genetic variants that remain to be identified in the human genome (the ‘mutome’). With the advent of next‐generation sequencing, we are currently witnessing a revolution in medical genetics. In particular, whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) has the potential to identify all disease‐causing or disease‐associated DNA variants in a given individual. Here, we use examples of recent advances in our understanding of mutational/pathogenic mechanisms to guide our thinking about possible locations outwith gene‐coding sequences for those disease‐causing or disease‐associated variants that are likely so often to have been overlooked because of the inadequacy of current mutation screening protocols. Such considerations are important not only for improving mutation‐screening strategies but also for enhancing the interpretation of findings derived from genome‐wide association studies, whole‐exome sequencing and WGS. An improved understanding of the human mutome will not only lead to the development of improved diagnostic testing procedures but should also improve our understanding of human genome biology.
Males Prefer Small Females in a Dichotomous Choice Test in the Poeciliid Fish Heterandria formosa
Authors: Ala‐Honkola Outi , Säilä Laura , Lindström Kai
Published: May 2010

Male choice is expected to evolve when females differ in quality, even if male investment in each mating is low. The family Poeciliidae is an example of fishes in which males show little parental investment as they only provide sperm. Up until now, a preference for large females has been found in all species studied. Here we show that unexpectedly, males of the least killifish (Heterandria formosa) prefer to interact with small instead of large females in a dichotomous male choice test, even though large females are more fecund. During a free‐swimming choice experiment, males did not discriminate between females based on their size. We suggest that this unique preference for small females, or the lack of preference for large females, results from strong first male sperm precedence in this species. Smaller females are younger and therefore more likely to be virgin, which probably makes them more profitable mates for males. When presented with a virgin and a mated female of similar size, males showed no preference for either type. This suggests that males do not use pheromone cues to assess female mating status but that they are likely to use female size as a proxy for it.
Development, mapping and transferability of Fragaria EST‐SSRs within the Rosodae supertribe
Authors: Rousseau‐Gueutin M. , Richard L. , Le Dantec L. , Caron H. , Denoyes‐Rothan B.
Published: May 2010

With 1 figure and 3 tables

The Rosodae supertribe is composed of economically important species (strawberry, rose and raspberry). In order to extend the repertoire of markers for optimizing genetic mapping and synteny within this supertribe, we developed 20 functional markers from two Fragaria cDNA libraries enriched in AG/AC microsatellite motifs. We tested their transferability within the Rosodae supertribe, including two reference diploid and octoploid strawberry segregating populations. Out of these 20 functional markers, 70% revealed polymorphism in both diploid and octoploid Fragaria segregating populations and were mapped on the diploid genetic map to provide useful information for further marker‐assisted selection. These 20 EST‐SSRs were also tested in 17 wild Fragaria species and displayed a high cross‐species transferability (mean of 95%), providing new markers for further diversity studies within the genus. These markers were also transferable to the phylogenetically close Potentilla genus, whereas their transferability was lower for the polyploid Duchesnea indica species and for the more distant Rosa genus. Their use for genetic mapping within the Rosodae will further permit a comparison of genetic information among the different genera.
Celecoxib, but not rofecoxib or naproxen, attenuates cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis induced in vitro by angiotensin and aldosterone
Authors: Wang Bing H , Bertucci Micka C , Ma Jian Yang , Adrahtas Anastasia , Cheung Raymond Y , Krum Henry
Published: May 2010

1. Cyclo‐oxygenase (COX)‐2 inhibitors and other non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been implicated in increased cardiovascular events. However, the direct effects of these drugs on cardiac function have not been explored extensively. Given the important role of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) in cardiac remodelling, we sought to determine the effect of COX‐2 inhibitors and non‐specific (NS‐) NSAIDs on RAAS‐induced cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis in neonatal rat cardiac myocytes (NCM) and fibroblasts (NCF) isolated from 1–2‐day‐old Sprague‐Dawley rat pups.

2. The NCM were pretreated for 2 h with COX‐2 inhibitors (celecoxib or rofecoxib) or NS‐NSAIDs (naproxen; all at 0.1–10 μmol/L) before being stimulated with 10 μmol/L aldosterone for 72 h or with 0.1 μmol/L angiotensin (Ang) II for 60 h. Hypertrophy of NCM was assessed by [3H]‐leucine incorporation.

3. The NCF were pretreated with COX‐2 inhibitors or naproxen as described for NCM before being stimulated with 0.1 μmol/L AngII for 48 h. Collagen synthesis was subsequently assayed by [3H]‐proline incorporation.

4. Pooled cryopreserved male and female rat hepatocytes were treated with or without COX‐2 inhibitors for 1 h before 1 nmol/L aldosterone (∼540 pg/mL) was added to all wells. Cells were incubated for a further 60 min and culture media harvested by centrifugation. Human hepatic HepG2 cells were treated with compounds with or without serum starvation for 48 h. All cells were pretreated with COX‐2 inhibitors for 2 h before the addition of aldosterone. Cell culture media were harvested after a further 3, 18, 24 or 48 h incubation. Aldosterone concentrations in the culture media were determined by enzyme immunoassay.

5. Aldosterone‐ and AngII‐stimulated NCM hypertrophy was inhibited by celecoxib, but not by rofecoxib or naproxen. In NCF, AngII‐stimulated collagen synthesis was inhibited by celecoxib and, to a lesser extent, by rofecoxib, whereas naproxen had no effect. The COX‐2 inhibitors inhibited aldosterone uptake and/or metabolism by rat hepatocytes, but had no effect in human hepatic HepG2 cells.

6. These results demonstrate a potential antiremodelling effect of selective COX‐2 inhibitors in the setting of RAAS stimulation in cardiac cells, whereas naproxen has no effect.
Conducting rehabilitation groups for people suffering from chronic pain
Authors: Dysvik Elin , Stephens Paul
Published: May 2010

Dysvik E, Stephens P.International Journal of Nursing Practice2010;16: 233–240 Conducting rehabilitation groups for people suffering from chronic pain

The aim of this study was to offer guidelines for counsellors who work with rehabilitation groups of patients with chronic pain. The sample involved nine counsellors engaged in a multidisciplinary pain management programme. Two focus group interviews were conducted. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. These indicate that main challenges facing counsellors were related to maintaining constructive group processes and being mentally prepared. The counsellors reported that knowledge concerning self‐awareness, theoretical frameworks and counselling techniques was important. Personal learning included: group leadership, teamwork, grasping the inside story and obtaining supervision. The results show how important it is to have trained counsellors that are well prepared to prevent and deal with challenging group processes. Counsellors need to understand the concept of pain and be acquainted with cognitive behavioural framework and group processes. The results indicate that counsellors perceive regular supervision as supportive and is likely to promote good team functioning.
Depression among mothers of children and adults with an intellectual disability in Turkey
Authors: Yildirim Sari Hatice , Başbakkal Zümrüt
Published: May 2010

Yildirim Sari H, Başbakkal Z. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 248–253 Depression among mothers of children and adults with an intellectual disability in Turkey

The aim of this study was to determine sociodemographic factors that play a role in depression among mothers of children and adult with an intellectual disability. The research was conducted in 24 special education and rehabilitation centres in Izmir (in Turkey) provincial centre in which intellectually disabled individuals are taught. A total of 355 mothers were reached in the research. Data were collected using face‐to‐face interviews. Two forms were used for data collection in the research: Family Description Questionnaire Form and Beck Depression Inventory. The mothers included in the study had mean depression scores of 16.7 ± 10.06 (minimum: 0, maximum: 49). There was a significant relation between depression scores of the mothers and education level of the mothers and their spouses and financial status of the families. Mothers with insufficient income and lower education levels were found to be at risk of depression.
Chinese parents' perception of support received and recommendations regarding children's postoperative pain management
Authors: He Hong‐Gu , Vehviläinen‐Julkunen Katri , Pölkki Tarja , Pietilä Anna‐Maija
Published: May 2010

He H‐G, Vehviläinen‐Julkunen K, Pölkki T, Pietilä A‐M. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 254–261 Chinese parents' perception of support received and recommendations regarding children's postoperative pain management

The aims of this study are to describe Chinese parents' perceptions of informational and emotional support received from nurses and their recommendations for improvement in the management of their child's postoperative pain. Data were collected using a questionnaire survey completed by 206 parents of 6‐ to 12‐year‐old child hospitalized in 12 wards in five provincial hospitals in Fujian Province, China, in 2004. Findings indicated that parents experienced negative feelings such as worry (91%) and anxiety (59%). Most of them reported they had received sufficient information on outcomes of surgical procedure (85%) and postoperative recovery process (84%), but fewer reported they had received sufficient information on pain medication (51%) and non‐pharmacological pain‐relieving methods (59%). Parents made some recommendations, which centred mainly on nurses' use of non‐pharmacological methods. Findings suggest that parents need more information related to pain management and their understanding of the information should be ensured.
Integrating clicker technology at nursing conferences: An innovative approach to research data collection
Authors: Solecki Susan , Cornelius Frances , Draper Judy , Fisher Kathleen
Published: May 2010

Solecki S, Cornelius F, Draper J, Fisher K. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 268–273 Integrating clicker technology at nursing conferences: An innovative approach to research data collection

A pilot demonstration of integrating an audience response system, that is, ‘clickers’ at a nursing education conference as an engaging tool for using the research process for learning through immediate research results is presented. A convenience sample of nursing conference attendees were surveyed using clicker technology before a panel presentation on the ‘Impaired Health Professional'. The 208 subjects who used the clickers were mostly women (93%) and were nurse educators (81%) with at least 20 years of nursing experience (75%). The ease of data collection, real‐time analysis, the active engagement of both participant and presenter were all findings of this study. The utility of this tool as a stimulus for discussion and learning was also reported. Pilot testing the clicker at an education conference for data collection and educational purposes was an important goal and positive outcome of this study. Researchers and educators are advised on the planning steps required to make this a successful experience.
Overcrowding in medium‐volume emergency departments: Effects of aged patients in emergency departments on wait times for non‐emergent triage‐level patients
Authors: Knapman Mary , Bonner Ann
Published: May 2010

Knapman M, Bonner A. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 310–317 Overcrowding in medium‐volume emergency departments: Effects of aged patients in emergency departments on wait times for non‐emergent triage‐level patients

This study aims to examine patient wait times from triaging to physician assessment in the emergency department (ED) for non‐emergent patients, and to see whether patient flow and process (triage) are impacted by aged patients. A retrospective study method was used to analyse 185 patients in three age groups. Key data recorded were triage level, wait time to physician assessment and ED census. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the strength of association with increased wait time. A longer average wait time for all patients occurred when there was an increase in the number of patients aged ≥ 65 years in the ED. Further analysis showed 12.1% of the variation extending ED wait time associated with the triage process was explained by the number of patients aged ≥ 65 years. In addition, extended wait time, overcrowding and numbers of those who left without being seen were strongly associated (P < 0.05) with the number of aged patients in the ED. The effects of aged patients on ED structure and process have significant implications for nursing. Nursing process and practice sets clear responsibilities for nursing to ensure patient safety. However, the impact of factors associated with aged patients in ED, nursing's role and ED process can negatively impact performance expectations and requires further investigation.
Association between HCV amino acid substitutions and outcome of peginterferon and ribavirin combination therapy in HCV genotype 1b and high viral load
Authors: Toyoda Hidenori , Kumada Takashi , Tada Toshifumi , Arakawa Takahiro , Hayashi Kazuhiko , Honda Takashi , Katano Yoshiaki , Goto Hidemi
Published: May 2010

Background and Aim:  We prospectively compared the sensitivity to interferon (IFN) and the efficacy of antiviral combination therapy with peginterferon (PEG‐IFN) and ribavirin for chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1b infection according to the amino acid sequences of the HCV core, E1, and NS5A regions reported to be associated with the outcome of antiviral therapy.

Methods:  A total of 107 patients with HCV genotype 1b were investigated. All patients received combination therapy with PEG‐IFN alpha‐2b and ribavirin. Amino acids 70 and 91 (core), 139 (E1), and 2209–2248 (NS5A) of HCV were analyzed by direct nucleotide sequencing.

Results:  The reduction in HCV RNA concentration at 24 h after a single administration of conventional IFN‐alpha and after the start of combination therapy was significantly less marked, and rates of complete early virologic response, end‐of‐treatment response, and sustained virologic response (SVR) were significantly lower (all P < 0.0001) in patients with glutamine at amino acid 70 (n = 29) than in those with arginine at that position (n = 70). We found no differences associated with the other amino acid positions. Amino acid 70 was an independent factor for the responses to the therapy in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion:  The identity of amino acid 70 of the HCV core region affected the sensitivity to IFN; patients with glutamine at amino acid 70 of HCV showed resistance to IFN. Consequently, it strongly affected the outcome of combination therapy with PEG‐IFN and ribavirin in Japanese patients with HCV genotype 1b.
Effects of sphingolipid synthesis inhibition on cholesterol gallstone formation in C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Lee Beom Jae , Kim Jae Seon , Kim Byung Kyu , Jung Sung Joo , Joo Moon Kyung , Hong Seung Goun , Kim Jang Soo , Kim Ji Hoon , Yeon Jong Eun , Park Jong‐Jae , Byun Kwan Soo , Bak Young‐Tae , Yoo Hwan‐Soo , Oh Seikwan
Published: May 2010

Background:  Sphingolipids play a very important role in cell membrane formation, signal transduction and plasma lipoprotein metabolism. The first rate‐limiting step in the sphingolipid biosynthetic pathway is catalyzed by serine palmitoyltransferase (SPT), and myriocin is a potent and specific inhibitor of SPT. We investigated the impact of SPT inhibition on cholesterol gallstone formation in C57BL/6J mice.

Methods:  Three groups of eight‐week‐old C57BL/6J mice were utilized. Each group consisted of 20 mice; group A, B, and C were fed normal chow, lithogenic diet with phosphate buffered saline, and lithogenic diet with myriocin (0.3 mg/kg), respectively, for 6 weeks. The ceramide levels in both serum and bile were assessed by high performance liquid chromatography analysis. Protein expression of ERK, JNK and p38 in the extracted gallbladder were determined by Western‐blot analysis.

Results:  Myriocin treatment caused a significant decrease in the rate of cholesterol gallstone formation. The lithogenic diet mice (group B) showed the highest ceramide activities in both the serum and bile among all the tested groups and there was significant suppression of the ceramide levels in both the serum and bile of the myriocin‐treated mice (group C, p < 0.05). Phosphorylation of p38 in the gallbladder was increased in the lithogenic‐diet mice and the expression of phosphorylated p38 was significantly suppressed in the myriocin treated mice.

Conclusions:  SPT inhibition by myriocin suppressed gallstone formation and the levels of ceramide in both the serum and bile. p38 in the cellular signaling pathways might be associated with cholesterol gallstone formation.
Molecular basis for a functional role of cytochrome P450 2E1 in non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Wu Chung W , Yu Jun
Published: May 2010

See article in J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2010; 25: 1136–1143
Endotherapy of external pancreatic fistula: Second‐to‐none choice for cure
Authors: Kim Yeon‐Suk , Hahm Ki‐Baik
Published: May 2010

See article in J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2010; 25: 1087–1092
Aminotransferases and muscular diseases: A disregarded lesson. Case reports and review of the literature
Authors: Veropalumbo Claudio , Del Giudice Ennio , Esposito Gabriella , Maddaluno Sergio , Ruggiero Lucia , Vajro Pietro
Published: May 2010

The aim of this study was to call the attention to the often disregarded message that hypertransaminasemia may be a marker of both liver and muscle diseases by presenting personal case reports and a systematic literature review. Three male children (mean age 5.7 years) were inappropriately addressed, during the last 12 months, to our paediatric liver unit for diagnostic work‐up of a chronic hypertransaminasemia of unknown origin. In one of them, a liver biopsy had already been performed. On admission, physical examination, evaluation of serum levels of creatine kinase, and dystrophin genetic testing finally led to a diagnosis of muscular dystrophy. One hundred fourteen similar cases, 21 with unnecessary liver biopsy, were found by Medline search. Expensive and invasive tests planned to investigate liver diseases should be postponed until alternative sources of increased serum aminotransferases, primarily myopathic injury, have been excluded.
What will it take to stop the needless deaths of millions of women and children each year?
Authors: Williams Phoebe
Published: May 2010

Each year, almost 10 million children die before their fifth birthday; the majority from easily preventable diseases such as diarrhoea, pneumonia and malaria. Furthermore, 10 million women endure pregnancy‐related morbidities annually while 500,000 die in childbirth. The link between maternal and child health is inextricable and worldwide inequities continue to widen: 99% of all neonatal deaths occur in developing countries, while maternal mortality rates are 1,000 times greater for women in poor countries compared to those living in rich nations. These discrepencies continue to persist despite the presence of a multitude of simple, cost‐effective interventions which could save the lives of millions of women and children worldwide each year for a fraction of the cost associated spent on health care in the developed world.
Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy in children
Authors: Meyer Sascha , Shamdeen Mohammed Ghiath , Gottschling Sven , Strittmatter Matthias , Gortner Ludwig
Published: May 2010

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUPEP) is the commonest cause of seizure‐related mortality in people with intractable epilepsy. The incidence of SUDEP varies in different epilepsy populations, with lower rates in population‐based studies, higher in referral populations and clinical trials of adjunct drugs for complex partial epilepsy, and highest rates for surgical series. Certain risk factors for SUDEP have been identified, with seizure activity being one of the strongest risk factor for SUDEP. Suspected underlying mechanisms include cardiac dysrhythmias, seizure‐related apnoea and postictal respiratory arrest. Prevention of SUDEP has centred on seizure control, and SUDEP incidence has been reduced by epilepsy surgery in some studies. In this review, we present epidemiological data, and discuss risk factors and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that are associated with SUDEP in children.
Physical activity policies and practices of childcare centres in Australia
Authors: Wolfenden Luke , Neve Melinda , Farrell Louise , Lecathelinais Christophe , Bell Colin , Milat Andrew , Wiggers John , Sutherland Rachel
Published: May 2010

Aim:  The aim of this study was to describe the physical activity‐related policies and practices of childcare services; and to determine if service size, socioeconomic or remoteness characteristics predict such policies and practices.

Methods:  Authorized supervisors of 216 licensed pre‐schools and long day care centres participated in a brief telephone survey.

Results:  Few services had a written physical activity policy, programmed time each day for fundamental movement skill development, or had staff trained in physical activity. Twenty‐eight percent of pre‐schools and 30% of long day care centres provided daily opportunities for children 3–5 years to participate in sedentary screen activities. Rural pre‐schools and long day care centres were more likely to program time for fundamental movement skills development, as were pre‐schools from higher socioeconomic areas.

Conclusions:  There is substantial scope for childcare services to modify their policies and practices to be more supportive of child physical activity.
Dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA)
Authors: Yamada Mitsunori
Published: May 2010

Dentatorubral‐pallidoluysian atrophy (DRPLA) is a hereditary spinocerebellar degeneration. Despite the establishment of this disease in 1982, it has been pointed out that DRPLA has an unexplained aspect concerning its clinicopathological features; that is, the discrepancy between the variety of clinical manifestations and the uniformity of the brain lesions. The discovery of a causative gene mutation (abnormal expansion of the CAG repeat in DRPLA gene) triggered the development of novel neuropathology in DRPLA, which has suggested that polyglutamine‐related pathogenesis involves a wide range of central nervous system regions far beyond the systems previously reported to be affected. It is now likely that DRPLA has an aspect of neuronal storage disorder and has multiple system degeneration, the lesion distribution of which varies depending on the CAG repeat sizes in the causative gene.