bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accountability, asbestos and indigenous rights: The case of Baryulgil
Authors: Moerman Lee C. , van der Laan Sandra L.
Published: November 2011

This paper documents the history of paternalistic state policies and the effects of asbestos mining on the Indigenous community at Baryulgil in northern New South Wales. Despite the lack of profitability, the asbestos operations continued for over 30 years leaving a legacy of asbestos-related health and environmental issues. The shift of responsibility for Indigenous welfare from the State to a corporate entity is evidenced in this historical study using the lens of historical institutionalism. The Baryulgil case is instructive in a number of ways: it demonstrates the subtlety with which human rights abuses can occur in an environment where paternalistic attitudes towards Indigenous peoples prevail; it demonstrates the clash between pursuit of corporate objectives and human rights; and finally it demonstrates the lack of corporate accountability in the asbestos industry.
Psychometric Properties of the Eating Disorder Inventory in Clinical and Nonclinical Populations in Taiwan
Authors: Tseng Mei-Chih Meg , Yao Grace , Hu Fu-Chang , Chen Kuan-Yu , Fang David
Published: November 2011

Objective. To examine psychometric properties and investigate factor structures of the Mandarin Chinese version of the Eating Disorder Inventory (C-EDI). Method. The Mandarin C-EDI and other self-administered questionnaires were completed by a group of female eating disorder (ED) patients ( n = 551) and a group of female nursing students ( n = 751). Internal consistency, and convergent and discriminant validities were evaluated. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to examine the construct validity of the Mandarin C-EDI. Results. The Mandarin C-EDI had good internal consistency and convergent and discriminant validities. With a few exceptions, the original clinically derived eight EDI subscales were clearly identified and the factorial validity of the first-order eight-factor structure and the second-order two-factor structure showed an acceptable degree of fit to our empirical data in clinical patients. Discussion. The findings suggest that the Mandarin C-EDI is a valid tool for clinical use in Taiwan.
A reliability generalization meta-analysis of coefficient alpha for the Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale
Authors: Vassar Matt , Bradley Greg
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to use a meta-analytic method known as reliability generalization to investigate the score reliability for a popular depression measure: The Reynolds Adolescent Depression Scale. We used the technique to provide an aggregate estimate of coefficient alpha across empirical studies that have employed the measure over time and across populations. Furthermore, we identified sample and demographic characteristics associated with variance in coefficient alpha. We discuss conditions associated with variability in coefficient alpha and alert researchers and practitioners to appropriate uses of the scale based on common reliability benchmarks.
Against the odds: Foster carers’ perceptions of family, commitment and belonging in successful placements
Authors: Oke Nicholas , Rostill-Brookes Helen , Larkin Michael
Published: November 2011

This study examines carer attributes associated with placement stability for teenagers growing up in long term foster care, focusing on unexpected placement success. We explored experiences and perceptions relating to family, belonging and commitment in a group of foster carers providing a stable placement for a young person who had not been expected to settle. These placements showed positive outcome, despite factors in the child’s history that might have predicted otherwise.

Seven foster carers were interviewed following a semi-structured guide, which covered their ideas about their relationship with the child in question, about the foster family, and the child’s sense of belonging in foster and birth family. Analysis of carers’ accounts of placements which had succeeded ‘against the odds’ revealed four major themes, described under the headings My Child—emotional bonding, the carers’ enlarged view of family and their parental regard for the young person; Jam in the Sandwich—working within a ‘compromised space’ between Local Authority and birth family; Repair and Rebuild—the craft of fostering including managing the foster/birth family boundary; Sticking with It—resilience, tenacity and maintaining hopefulness.

The carers’ accounts offer pointers towards the ingredients of successful placements and prompt reflection on how these may be supported and promoted. They also highlight tensions inherent in the foster carer task relating to carers’ parental functioning for young people in long-term foster care.
Improvement of Indoor Living Environment by Occupants’ Preferences for Heat Recovery Ventilators in High-Rise Residential Buildings
Authors: Kim Sang-Min , Lee Ji-Hyun , Moon Hyeun Jun , Kim Sooyoung
Published: November 2011

This study examined the influence of heat recovery ventilators (HRVs) on energy savings and indoor air quality (IAQ) in high-rise residential buildings. Field measurements were performed in four residential units, which were validated by computer simulations and estimated the total annual energy consumption. The operation schedules for HRVs were determined by a survey of residents. Field measurement results indicate that HRVs could effectively improve IAQ and afford effective energy savings. The indoor concentrations of formaldehyde were reduced by 54.6% after HRVs were operated for 24 h. The initial concentration was reduced by 82% after 168 h. Toluene was the dominant volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the indoor air. Its initial concentration was reduced by 50% and other VOCs were also reduced by 40.1% to 53.1% after HRVs were operated. Annual energy savings of up to 20.26% were predicted when HRVs were operated for 24 h continuously, exchanging sensible and latent heat. HRVs could save energy more effectively in winter than in summer due to the greater temperature difference between outdoor and indoor air. Based on the preferred operation schedules of homes surveyed, an annual energy savings could be as high as 8.52%.
Online maps and minorities: Geotagging Thailand’s Muslims
Authors: Wall Melissa , Kirdnark Treepon
Published: November 2011

This article examines whether participatory media such as Flickr, with its seemingly unfettered tools for mapping citizen-created photographs, offers a means for a more comprehensive representation of minorities in a non-Western country. Assessment of geotags – markers designating longitude and latitude on an online map – associated with photographs of Thailand’s Muslims suggests that by replicating common stereotypes, user-generated content may be limiting rather than opening up discourses about minorities and that citizen participation via new media tools is more constrained and less free than commonly believed.
The impact of values, environmental concern, and willingness to accept economic sacrifices to protect the environment on tourists’ intentions to buy ecologically sustainable tourism alternatives
Authors: Hedlund Therese
Published: November 2011

The present study examines the impact of values, environmental concern, and willingness to accept economic sacrifices to protect the environment on tourists' intentions to buy ecologically sustainable tourism alternatives. The data were collected in a web-based survey and analysed by using structural equation modeling. The results show that universalism is related to environmental concern in the hypothesized direction. Significant positive relationships were found between environmental concern and the willingness to accept economic sacrifices to protect the environment, as well as between environmental concern and the intentions to buy ecologically sustainable tourism alternatives. Further, a positive relationship was found between willingness to accept economic sacrifices to protect the environment and the intentions to buy ecologically sustainable tourism alternatives. Theoretical and practical implications of the findings are discussed.
Reading Fluency and Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
Authors: Luckner John L. , Urbach Jennifer
Published: November 2011

The National Reading Panel identified fluency as one of the five essential components of reading. Fluency serves as a bridge between word recognition and comprehension. Individuals who are able to read effortlessly and accurately have more capacity to attend to the meaning and, as a result, better understand what they read. The purpose of this study was to review and summarize the research published in peer-reviewed journals between 1970 and 2009 focusing on reading fluency and students who are deaf and hard of hearing. A total of six studies were identified. A summary of each study is presented, and potential educational implications are described. Suggestions for additional research are provided.
EUS-guided drainage and stent placement for postoperative intra-abdominal and pelvic fluid collections in oncological surgery
Authors: Ulla-Rocha Jose Luis , Vilar-Cao Zenaida , Sardina-Ferreiro Raquel
Published: November 2011

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the role and benefits of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) in the management of postoperative intra-abdominal fluid collections after attempted curative surgery for abdominal cancer.

Methods: The authors retrospectively analysed the Endobase from 1 July 2007 to 30 January 2011 for patients with a postoperative intra-abdominal fluid collection who had undergone EUS-guided drainage and the placement of a stent. The data analysed included the demographics, type of surgery and clinical indications of each patient as well as their clinical and radiological findings.

Results: Six patients (three men and three women; mean age, 61.8 years [range, 38–78 years]) with intra-abdominal and pelvic fluid collections after abdominal surgery for cancer had undergone EUS-guided internal drainage. All procedures had been performed using linear EUS guidance and 8-Fr stent drainage catheters (‘one step device’, Giovannini, NWOA system Needle-Wire, Cook). The collection types included perigastric abscess ( n = 3), perigastric hematoma and rectal hematoma ( n = 1), perirectal biloma ( n = 1), and perirectal abscess ( n = 1). Patients had undergone the following types of surgery: lower-anterior rectal resection ( n = 2), Whipple’s duodenopancreatectomy type ( n = 1), total gastrectomy ( n = 1), splenectomy ( n = 1), and distal pancreatectomy ( n = 1). The number of stents inserted for each collection was one (five patients) and two (one patient).

Conclusions: EUS-guided drainage and stenting provide another option for the management of postoperative collections. It allows access to areas that are difficult to reach with the CT-guided approach and it can be performed accurately, efficiently and safely. In addition to this, the internal nature of the drainage offers patients more comfort.
Oxygen scavengers impregnated in porous activated carbon matrix for food and beverage packaging applications
Authors: Cardona Elkin D , del Pilar Noriega María , Sierra Juan D
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this research study was to evaluate two novel oxygen scavengers based on lecithin and sodium erythorbate using a supercritical fluid methodology to impregnate it in a porous matrix. A zero-order model was used to describe the oxygen absorption kinetics of these absorbers suitable for food and beverage packaging applications. Both oxygen scavengers were competitive compared to commercial available technologies. The absorption rate of lecithin was advantageous compared to erythorbate and other scavengers. This research was foreseen in a prospective study on flexible plastic packaging that it was carried out with the participation of 20 companies.
Plasmodium falciparum STEVOR proteins impact erythrocyte mechanical properties
Authors: Sanyal Sohini , Egée Stéphane , Bouyer Guillaume , Perrot Sylvie , Safeukui Innocent , Bischoff Emmanuel , Buffet Pierre , Deitsch Kirk W. , Mercereau-Puijalon Odile , David Peter H. , Templeton Thomas J. , Lavazec Catherine
Published: November 2011

Infection of erythrocytes with the human malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, results in dramatic changes to the host cell structure and morphology. The predicted functional localization of the STEVOR proteins at the erythrocyte surface suggests that they may be involved in parasite-induced modifications of the erythrocyte membrane during parasite development. To address the biologic function of STEVOR proteins, we subjected a panel of stevor transgenic parasites and wild-type clonal lines exhibiting different expression levels for stevor genes to functional assays exploring parasite-induced modifications of the erythrocyte membrane. Using this approach, we show that stevor expression impacts deformability of the erythrocyte membrane. This process may facilitate parasite sequestration in deep tissue vasculature.
Identification and correction of systematic error in high-throughput sequence data
Authors: Meacham Frazer , Boffelli Dario , Dhahbi Joseph , Martin David IK , Singer Meromit , Pachter Lior
Published: November 2011

Background

A feature common to all DNA sequencing technologies is the presence of base-call errors in the sequenced reads. The implications of such errors are application specific, ranging from minor informatics nuisances to major problems affecting biological inferences. Recently developed "next-gen" sequencing technologies have greatly reduced the cost of sequencing, but have been shown to be more error prone than previous technologies. Both position specific (depending on the location in the read) and sequence specific (depending on the sequence in the read) errors have been identified in Illumina and Life Technology sequencing platforms. We describe a new type of systematic error that manifests as statistically unlikely accumulations of errors at specific genome (or transcriptome) locations.

Results

We characterize and describe systematic errors using overlapping paired reads from high-coverage data. We show that such errors occur in approximately 1 in 1000 base pairs, and that they are highly replicable across experiments. We identify motifs that are frequent at systematic error sites, and describe a classifier that distinguishes heterozygous sites from systematic error. Our classifier is designed to accommodate data from experiments in which the allele frequencies at heterozygous sites are not necessarily 0.5 (such as in the case of RNA-Seq), and can be used with single-end datasets.

Conclusions

Systematic errors can easily be mistaken for heterozygous sites in individuals, or for SNPs in population analyses. Systematic errors are particularly problematic in low coverage experiments, or in estimates of allele-specific expression from RNA-Seq data. Our characterization of systematic error has allowed us to develop a program, called SysCall, for identifying and correcting such errors. We conclude that correction of systematic errors is important to consider in the design and interpretation of high-throughput sequencing experiments.
eXframe: reusable framework for storage, analysis and visualization of genomics experiments
Authors: Sinha Amit U , Merrill Emily , Armstrong Scott A , Clark Tim W , Das Sudeshna
Published: November 2011

Background

Genome-wide experiments are routinely conducted to measure gene expression, DNA-protein interactions and epigenetic status. Structured metadata for these experiments is imperative for a complete understanding of experimental conditions, to enable consistent data processing and to allow retrieval, comparison, and integration of experimental results. Even though several repositories have been developed for genomics data, only a few provide annotation of samples and assays using controlled vocabularies. Moreover, many of them are tailored for a single type of technology or measurement and do not support the integration of multiple data types.

Results

We have developed eXframe - a reusable web-based framework for genomics experiments that provides 1) the ability to publish structured data compliant with accepted standards 2) support for multiple data types including microarrays and next generation sequencing 3) query, analysis and visualization integration tools (enabled by consistent processing of the raw data and annotation of samples) and is available as open-source software. We present two case studies where this software is currently being used to build repositories of genomics experiments - one contains data from hematopoietic stem cells and another from Parkinson's disease patients.

Conclusion

The web-based framework eXframe offers structured annotation of experiments as well as uniform processing and storage of molecular data from microarray and next generation sequencing platforms. The framework allows users to query and integrate information across species, technologies, measurement types and experimental conditions. Our framework is reusable and freely modifiable - other groups or institutions can deploy their own custom web-based repositories based on this software. It is interoperable with the most important data formats in this domain. We hope that other groups will not only use eXframe, but also contribute their own useful modifications.
Whole genome sequencing of peach (Prunus persica L.) for SNP identification and selection
Authors: Ahmad Riaz , Parfitt Dan E , Fass Joseph , Ogundiwin Ebenezer , Dhingra Amit , Gradziel Thomas M , Lin Dawei , Joshi Nikhil A , Martinez-Garcia Pedro J , Crisosto Carlos H
Published: November 2011

Background

The application of next generation sequencing technologies and bioinformatic scripts to identify high frequency SNPs distributed throughout the peach genome is described. Three peach genomes were sequenced using Roche 454 and Illumina/Solexa technologies to obtain long contigs for alignment to the draft 'Lovell' peach sequence as well as sufficient depth of coverage for 'in silico' SNP discovery.

Description

The sequences were aligned to the 'Lovell' peach genome released April 01, 2010 by the International Peach Genome Initiative (IPGI). 'Dr. Davis', 'F8, 1-42' and 'Georgia Belle' were sequenced to add SNPs segregating in two breeding populations, Pop DF ('Dr. Davis' × 'F8, 1-42') and Pop DG ('Dr. Davis' × 'Georgia Belle'). Roche 454 sequencing produced 980,000 total reads with 236 Mb sequence for 'Dr. Davis' and 735,000 total reads with 172 Mb sequence for 'F8, 1-42'. 84 bp × 84 bp paired end Illumina/Solexa sequences yielded 25.5, 21.4, 25.5 million sequences for 'Dr. Davis', 'F8, 1-42' and 'Georgia Belle', respectively. BWA/SAMtools were used for alignment of raw reads and SNP detection, with custom PERL scripts for SNP filtering. Velvet's Columbus module was used for sequence assembly. Comparison of aligned and overlapping sequences from both Roche 454 and Illumina/Solexa resulted in the selection of 6654 high quality SNPs for 'Dr. Davis' vs. 'F8, 1-42' and 'Georgia Belle', distributed on eight major peach genome scaffolds as defined from the 'Lovell' assembly.

Conclusion

The eight scaffolds contained about 215-225 Mb of peach genomic sequences with one SNP/~ 40,000 bases. All sequences from Roche 454 and Illumina/Solexa have been submitted to NCBI for public use in the Short Read Archive database. SNPs have been deposited in the NCBI SNP database.
Clinical outcome of pneumococcal meningitis during the emergence of pencillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae: an observational study
Authors: Gouveia Edilane L , Reis Joice N , Flannery Brendan , Cordeiro Soraia M , Lima Josilene BT , Pinheiro Ricardo M , Salgado Kátia , Mascarenhas Ana Veronica , Carvalho M Gloria , Beall Bernard W , Reis Mitermayer G , Ko Albert I
Published: November 2011

Background

Prior to the availability of generic third-generation cephalosporins, penicillins were widely used for treatment of pneumococcal meningitis in developing countries despite concerns about rising levels of penicillin resistance among pneumococcal isolates. We examined the impact of penicillin resistance on outcomes of pneumococcal meningitis over a ten year period in an infectious diseases hospital in Brazil.

Methods

Clinical presentation, antimicrobial therapy and outcomes were reviewed for 548 patients with culture-confirmed pneumococcal meningitis from December, 1995, to November, 2005. Pneumococcal isolates from meningitis patients were defined as penicillin-resistant if Minimum Inhibitory Concentrations for penicillin were greater than 0.06 μg/ml. Proportional hazards regression was used to identify risk factors for fatal outcomes.

Results

During the ten-year period, ceftriaxone replaced ampicillin as first-line therapy for suspected bacterial meningitis. In hospital case-fatality for pneumococcal meningitis was 37%. Of 548 pneumococcal isolates from meningitis cases, 92 (17%) were resistant to penicillin. After controlling for age and severity of disease at admission, penicillin resistance was associated with higher case-fatality (Hazard Ratio [HR], 1.62; 95% Confidence Interval [CI], 1.08-2.43). Penicillin-resistance remained associated with higher case-fatality when initial therapy included ceftriaxone (HR, 1.68; 95% CI 1.02-2.76).

Conclusions

Findings support the use of third generation cephalosporin antibiotics for treatment of suspected pneumococcal meningitis even at low prevalence of pneumococcal resistance to penicillins.
Supervised team management, with or without structured psychotherapy, in heavy users of a mental health service with borderline personality disorder: a two-year follow-up preliminary randomized study
Authors: Amianto Federico , Ferrero Andrea , Pierò Andrea , Cairo Elisabetta , Rocca Giuseppe , Simonelli Barbara , Fassina Simona , Abbate-Daga Giovanni , Fassino Secondo
Published: November 2011

Background

Individuals affected by severe Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are often heavy users of Mental Health Services (MHS). Short-term treatments currently used in BPD therapy are useful to target disruptive behaviors but they are less effective in reducing heavy MHS use. Therefore, alternative short-term treatments, less complex than long-term psychodynamic psychotherapies but specifically oriented to BPD core problems, need to be developed to reduce MHS overuse. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of adding Sequential Brief Adlerian Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (SB-APP) to Supervised Team Management (STM) in BPD treatment compared to STM alone in a naturalistic group of heavy MHS users with BPD. Effectiveness was evaluated 6 times along a two-year follow-up.

Methods

Thirty-five outpatients who met inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to two treatment groups (STM = 17; SB-APP = 18) and then compared. Clinical Global Impression (CGI) and CGI-modified (CGI-M) for BPD, Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF), State-Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI), and Symptom Checklist-90 Revised (SCL-90-R) were administered at T1, T3, T6, T12, T18 and T24. At T12 the Working Alliance Inventory-Short Form (WAI-S) was also completed. At the one-year follow-up, SB-APP group did not receive any additional individual psychological support. MHS team was specifically trained in BPD treatment and had regular supervisions.

Results

All patients improved on CGI, GAF, and STAXI scores after 6 and 12 months, independently of treatment received. SB-APP group showed better outcome on impulsivity, suicide attempts, chronic feelings of emptiness, and disturbed relationships. We found a good stabilization at the one year follow-up, even after the interruption of brief psychotherapy in the SB-APP group.

Conclusions

Although STM for BPD applied to heavy MHS users was effective in reducing symptoms and improving their global functioning, adding a time-limited and focused psychotherapy was found to achieve a better outcome. In particular, focusing treatment on patients' personality with a specific psychotherapeutic approach (i.e. SB-APP) seemed to be more effective than STM alone.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT1356069
An engineered pathway for glyoxylate metabolism in tobacco plants aimed to avoid the release of ammonia in photorespiration
Authors: Carvalho Josirley de FC , Madgwick Pippa J , Powers Stephen J , Keys Alfred J , Lea Peter J , Parry Martin AJ
Published: November 2011

Background

The photorespiratory nitrogen cycle in C3plants involves an extensive diversion of carbon and nitrogen away from the direct pathways of assimilation. The liberated ammonia is re-assimilated, but up to 25% of the carbon may be released into the atmosphere as CO2. Because of the loss of CO2and high energy costs, there has been considerable interest in attempts to decrease the flux through the cycle in C3plants. Transgenic tobacco plants were generated that contained the genesgclandhyifromE. coliencoding glyoxylate carboligase (EC 4.1.1.47) and hydroxypyruvate isomerase (EC 5.3.1.22) respectively, targeted to the peroxisomes. It was presumed that the two enzymes could work together and compete with the aminotransferases that convert glyoxylate to glycine, thus avoiding ammonia production in the photorespiratory nitrogen cycle.

Results

When grown in ambient air, but not in elevated CO2, the transgenic tobacco lines had a distinctive phenotype of necrotic lesions on the leaves. Three of the six lines chosen for a detailed study contained single copies of thegclgene, two contained single copies of both thegclandhyigenes and one line contained multiple copies of bothgclandhyigenes. The gcl protein was detected in the five transgenic lines containing single copies of thegclgene but hyi protein was not detected in any of the transgenic lines. The content of soluble amino acids including glycine and serine, was generally increased in the transgenic lines growing in air, when compared to the wild type. The content of soluble sugars, glucose, fructose and sucrose in the shoot was decreased in transgenic lines growing in air, consistent with decreased carbon assimilation.

Conclusions

Tobacco plants have been generated that produce bacterial glyoxylate carboligase but not hydroxypyruvate isomerase. The transgenic plants exhibit a stress response when exposed to air, suggesting that some glyoxylate is diverted away from conversion to glycine in a deleterious short-circuit of the photorespiratory nitrogen cycle. This diversion in metabolism gave rise to increased concentrations of amino acids, in particular glutamine and asparagine in the leaves and a decrease of soluble sugars.
Antiurolithic activity of Origanum vulgare is mediated through multiple pathways
Authors: Khan Aslam , Bashir Samra , Khan Saeed R , Gilani Anwar H
Published: November 2011

Background

Origanum vulgare Linn has traditionally been used in the treatment of urolithiasis. Therefore, we investigated the crude extract of Origanum vulgare for possible antiurolithic effect, to rationalize its medicinal use.

Methods

The crude aqueous-methanolic extract of Origanum vulgare (Ov.Cr) was studied using the in vitro and in vivo methods. In the in vitro experiments, supersaturated solution of calcium and oxalate, kidney epithelial cell lines (MDCK) and urinary bladder of rabbits were used, whereas, in the in vivo studies, rat model of urolithiasis was used for the study of preventive and curative effect.

Results

In the in vitro experiments, Ov.Cr exhibited a concentration-dependent (0.25-4 mg/ml) inhibitory effect on the slope of nucleation and aggregation and also decreased the number of calcium oxalate monohydrate crystals (COM) produced in calcium oxalate metastable solutions. It also showed concentration-dependent antioxidant effect against DPPH free radical and lipid peroxidation induced in rat kidney tissue homogenate. Ov.Cr reduced the cell toxicity using MTT assay and LDH release in renal epithelial cells (MDCK) exposed to oxalate (0.5 mM) and COM (66 μg/cm2) crystals. Ov.Cr relaxed high K+ (80 mM) induced contraction in rabbit urinary bladder strips, and shifted the calcium concentration-response curves (CRCs) towards right with suppression of the maximum response similar to that of verapamil, a standard calcium channel blocker. In male Wistar rats receiving lithogenic treatment comprising of 0.75% ethylene glycol in drinking water given for 3 weeks along with ammonium chloride (NH4Cl) for the first 5 days, Ov.Cr treatment (10-30 mg/kg) prevented as well as reversed toxic changes including loss of body weight, polyurea, crystalluria, oxaluria, raised serum urea and creatinine levels and crystal deposition in kidneys compared to their respective controls.

Conclusion

These data indicating the antiurolithic activity in Ov.Cr, possibly mediated through inhibition of CaOx crystallization, antioxidant, renal epithelial cell protective and antispasmodic activities, rationalizes its medicinal use in urolithiasis.
Association of circulating omentin-1 level with arterial stiffness and carotid plaque in type 2 diabetes
Authors: Yoo Hye Jin , Hwang Soon Young , Hong Ho Cheol , Choi Hae Yoon , Yang Sae Jeong , Seo Ji A , Kim Sin Gon , Kim Nan Hee , Choi Kyung Mook , Choi Dong Seop , Baik Sei Hyun
Published: November 2011

Background

Adipokines contribute directly to the atherosclerotic process, connecting metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes to cardiovascular disease. Omentin-1 is a recently discovered novel adipokine, so data about the relationship of this adipokine to vascular health in type 2 diabetes is limited.

Methods

We enrolled 60 people with type 2 diabetes, with or without carotid plaque, and 30 participants with normal glucose tolerance. We measured serum omentin-1, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), as well as other cardiovascular risk factors. Vascular health was assessed by brachial ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT).

Results

Serum omentin-1 levels were significantly decreased in type 2 diabetes patients compared to normal glucose controls and was further reduced in type 2 diabetes patients with carotid plaque compared to those without carotid plaque. Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that age, systolic blood pressure, history of use of statins, angiotensin receptor blockers or angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and serum omentin-1 level were independent factors determining baPWV in people with type 2 diabetes (r
2 = 0.637). Furthermore, in multivariate logistic regression analysis, circulating omentin-1 level was an independent decisive factor for the presence of carotid plaque in type 2 diabetes patients, even after adjusting for age, gender, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, and history of smoking and medication (odds ratio, 0.621; 95% confidence interval, 0.420-0.919; P = 0.017).

Conclusions

Circulating omentin-1 level was independently correlated with arterial stiffness and carotid plaque in type 2 diabetes, even after adjusting for other cardiovascular risk factors and detailed medication history.
HCCS1-armed, quadruple-regulated oncolytic adenovirus specific for liver cancer as a cancer targeting gene-viro-therapy strategy
Authors: Xu Hai-Neng , Huang Wei-Dan , Cai Ying , Ding Miao , Gu Jin-Fa , Wei Na , Sun Lan-Ying , Cao Xin , Li Hua-Guang , Zhang Kang-Jian , Liu Xin-Ran , Liu Xin-Yuan
Published: November 2011

Background

In previously published studies, oncolytic adenovirus-mediated gene therapy has produced good results in targeting cancer cells. However, safety and efficacy, the two most important aspects in cancer therapy, remain serious challenges. The specific expression or deletion of replication related genes in an adenovirus has been frequently utilized to regulate the cancer cell specificity of a virus. Accordingly, in this study, we deleted 24 bp in E1A (bp924-bp947) and the entirety of E1B, including those genes encoding E1B 55kDa and E1B19kDa. We used the survivin promoter (SP) to control E1A in order to construct a new adenovirus vector named Ad.SP.E1A(Δ24).ΔE1B (briefly Ad.SPDD). HCCS1 (hepatocellular carcinoma suppressor 1) is a novel tumor suppressor gene that is able to specifically induce apoptosis in cancer cells. The expression cassette AFP-HCCS1-WPRE-SV40 was inserted into Ad.SPDD to form Ad.SPDD-HCCS1, enabling us to improve the safety and efficacy of oncolytic-mediated gene therapy for liver cancer.

Results

Ad.SPDD showed a decreased viral yield and less toxicity in normal cells but enhanced toxicity in liver cancer cells, compared with the cancer-specific adenovirus ZD55 (E1B55K deletion). Ad.SPDD-HCCS1 exhibited a potent anti-liver-cancer ability and decreased toxicity in vitro. Ad.SPDD-HCCS1 also showed a measurable capacity to inhibit Huh-7 xenograft tumor growth on nude mice. The underlying mechanism of Ad.SPDD-HCCS1-induced liver cancer cell death was found to be via the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that Ad.SPDD-HCCS1 was able to elicit reduced toxicity and enhanced efficacy both in vitro and in vivo compared to a previously constructed oncolytic adenovirus. Ad.SPDD-HCCS1 could be a promising candidate for liver cancer therapy.
Development of a patient reported outcome measure for fatigue in motor neurone disease: the Neurological Fatigue Index (NFI-MND)
Authors: Gibbons Chris J , Mills Roger J , Thornton Everard W , Ealing John , Mitchell John D , Shaw Pamela J , Talbot Kevin , Tennant A , Young Carolyn A
Published: November 2011

Background

The objective of this research was to develop a disease-specific measure for fatigue in patients with motor neurone disease (MND) by generating data that would fit the Rasch measurement model. Fatigue was defined as reversible motor weakness and whole-body tiredness that was predominantly brought on by muscular exertion and was partially relieved by rest.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were undertaken to confirm the suitability of a previously identified set of 52 neurological fatigue items as relevant to patients with MND. Patients were recruited from five U.K. MND clinics. Questionnaires were administered during clinic or by post. A sub-sample of patients completed the questionnaire again after 2-4 weeks to assess test-retest validity. Exploratory factor analyses and Rasch analysis were conducted on the item set.

Results

Qualitative interviews with ten MND patients confirmed the suitability of 52 previously identified neurological fatigue items as relevant to patients with MND. 298 patients consented to completing the initial questionnaire including this item set, with an additional 78 patients completing the questionnaire a second time after 4-6 weeks. Exploratory Factor Analysis identified five potential subscales that could be conceptualised as representing: 'Energy', 'Reversible muscular weakness' (shortened to 'Weakness'), 'Concentration', 'Effects of heat' and 'Rest'. Of the original five factors, two factors 'Energy' and 'Weakness' met the expectations of the Rasch model. A higher order fatigue summary scale, consisting of items from the 'Energy' and 'Weakness' subscales, was found to fit the Rasch model and have acceptable unidimensionality. The two scales and the higher order summary scale were shown to fulfil model expectations, including assumptions of unidimensionality, local independency and an absence of differential item functioning.

Conclusions

The Neurological Fatigue Index for MND (NFI-MND) is a simple, easy-to-administer fatigue scale. It consists of an 8-item fatigue summary scale in addition to separate scales for measuring fatigue experienced as reversible muscular weakness and fatigue expressed as feelings of low energy and whole body tiredness. The underlying two factor structure supports the patient concept of fatigue derived from qualitative interviews in this population. All three scales were shown to be reliable and capable of interval level measurement.
Co nanoparticle hybridization with single-crystalline Bi nanowires
Authors: Noh Jin-Seo , Lee Min-Kyung , Ham Jinhee , Lee Wooyoung
Published: November 2011

Crystalline Co nanoparticles were hybridized with single-crystalline Bi nanowires simply by annealing Co-coated Bi nanowires at elevated temperatures. An initially near-amorphous Co film of 2-7 nm in thickness began to disrupt its morphology and to be locally transformed into crystallites in the early stage of annealing. The Co film became discontinuous after prolonged annealing, finally leading to isolated, crystalline Co nanoparticles of 8-27 nm in size. This process spontaneously proceeds to reduce the high surface tension and total energy of Co film. The annealing time required for Co nanoparticle formation decreased as annealing temperature increased, reflecting that this transformation occurs by the diffusional flow of Co atoms. The Co nanoparticle formation process was explained by a hole agglomeration and growth mechanism, which is similar to the model suggested by Brandon and Bradshaw, followed by the nanoparticle refinement.
Coupled coincidences for multi-valued contractions in partially ordered metric spaces
Authors: Hussain N , Alotaibi A
Published: November 2011

In this article, we study the existence of coupled coincidence points for multi-valued nonlinear contractions in partially ordered metric spaces. We do it from two different approaches, the first is Δ-symmetric property recently studied in Samet and Vetro (Coupled fixed point theorems for multi-valued nonlinear contraction mappings in partially ordered metric spaces, Nonlinear Anal. 74, 4260-4268 (2011)) and second one is mixed g-monotone property studied by Lakshmikantham and Ćirić (Coupled fixed point theorems for nonlinear contractions in partially ordered metric spaces, Nonlinear Anal. 70, 4341-4349 (2009)).

The theorems presented extend certain results due to Ćirić (Multi-valued nonlinear contraction mappings, Nonlinear Anal. 71, 2716-2723 (2009)), Samet and Vetro (Coupled fixed point theorems for multi-valued nonlinear contraction mappings in partially ordered metric spaces, Nonlinear Anal. 74, 4260-4268 (2011)) and many others. We support the results by establishing an illustrative example.

2000 MSC: primary 06F30; 46B20; 47E10.
Existence of solutions for weighted p(r)-Laplacian impulsive system mixed type boundary value problems
Authors: Yin Li , Guo Yunrui , Zhi Guizhen , Zhang Qihu
Published: November 2011

This paper investigates the existence of solutions for weighted p(r)-Laplacian impulsive system mixed type boundary value problems. The proof of our main result is based upon Gaines and Mawhin's coincidence degree theory. Moreover, we obtain the existence of nonnegative solutions.
Genetic characterization of H1N2 influenza a virus isolated from sick pigs in Southern China in 2010
Authors: Kong Wei Li , Huang Liang Zong , Qi Hai Tao , Cao Nan , Zhang Liang Quan , Wang Heng , Guan Shang Song , Qi Wen Bao , Jiao Pei Rong , Liao Ming , Zhang Gui Hong
Published: November 2011

In China H3N2 and H1N1 swine influenza viruses have been circulating for many years. In January 2010, before swine were infected with foot and mouth disease in Guangdong, some pigs have shown flu-like symptoms: cough, sneeze, runny nose and fever. We collected the nasopharyngeal swab of all sick pigs as much as possible. One subtype H1N2 influenza viruses were isolated from the pig population. The complete genome of one isolate, designated A/swine/Guangdong/1/2010(H1N2), was sequenced and compared with sequences available in GenBank. The nucleotide sequences of all eight viral RNA segments were determined, and then phylogenetic analysis was performed using the neighbor-joining method. HA, NP, M and NS were shown to be closely to swine origin. PB2 and PA were close to avian origin, but NA and PB1were close to human origin. It is a result of a multiple reassortment event. In conclusion, our finding provides further evidence about the interspecies transmission of avian influenza viruses to pigs and emphasizes the importance of reinforcing swine influenza virus (SIV) surveillance, especially before the emergence of highly pathogenic FMDs in pigs in Guangdong.
Detection of breast cancer cells using targeted magnetic nanoparticles and ultra-sensitive magnetic field sensors
Authors: Hathaway Helen J , Butler Kimberly S , Adolphi Natalie L , Lovato Debbie M , Belfon Robert , Fegan Danielle , Monson Todd C , Trujillo Jason E , Tessier Trace E , Bryant Howard C , Huber Dale L , Larson Richard S , Flynn Edward R
Published: November 2011

Introduction

Breast cancer detection using mammography has improved clinical outcomes for many women, because mammography can detect very small (5 mm) tumors early in the course of the disease. However, mammography fails to detect 10 - 25% of tumors, and the results do not distinguish benign and malignant tumors. Reducing the false positive rate, even by a modest 10%, while improving the sensitivity, will lead to improved screening, and is a desirable and attainable goal. The emerging application of magnetic relaxometry, in particular using superconducting quantum interference device (SQUID) sensors, is fast and potentially more specific than mammography because it is designed to detect tumor-targeted iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles. Furthermore, magnetic relaxometry is theoretically more specific than MRI detection, because only target-bound nanoparticles are detected. Our group is developing antibody-conjugated magnetic nanoparticles targeted to breast cancer cells that can be detected using magnetic relaxometry.

Methods

To accomplish this, we identified a series of breast cancer cell lines expressing varying levels of the plasma membrane-expressed human epidermal growth factor-like receptor 2 (Her2) by flow cytometry. Anti-Her2 antibody was then conjugated to superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles using the carbodiimide method. Labeled nanoparticles were incubated with breast cancer cell lines and visualized by confocal microscopy, Prussian blue histochemistry, and magnetic relaxometry.

Results

We demonstrated a time- and antigen concentration-dependent increase in the number of antibody-conjugated nanoparticles bound to cells. Next, anti Her2-conjugated nanoparticles injected into highly Her2-expressing tumor xenograft explants yielded a significantly higher SQUID relaxometry signal relative to unconjugated nanoparticles. Finally, labeled cells introduced into breast phantoms were measured by magnetic relaxometry, and as few as 1 million labeled cells were detected at a distance of 4.5 cm using our early prototype system.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the antibody-conjugated magnetic nanoparticles are promising reagents to apply to in vivo breast tumor cell detection, and that SQUID-detected magnetic relaxometry is a viable, rapid, and highly sensitive method for in vitro nanoparticle development and eventual in vivo tumor detection.
Direct vector-field method to obtain angle-domain common-image gathers from isotropic acoustic and elastic reverse time migration
Authors: Zhang Qunshan , McMechan George A.
Published: November 2011

We have developed an alternative (new) method to produce common-image gathers in the incident-angle domain by calculating wavenumbers directly from the P-wave polarization rather than using the dominant wavenumber as the normal to the source wavefront. In isotropic acoustic media, the wave propagation direction can be directly calculated as the spatial gradient direction of the acoustic wavefield, which is parallel to the wavenumber direction (the normal to the wavefront). Instantaneous wavenumber, obtained via a novel Hilbert transform approach, is used to calculate the local normal to the reflectors in the migrated image. The local incident angle is produced as the difference between the propagation direction and the normal to the reflector. By reordering the migrated images (over all common-source gathers) with incident angle, common-image gathers are produced in the incident-angle domain. Instantaneous wavenumber takes the place of the normal to the reflector in the migrated image. P- and S-wave separations allow both PP and PS common-image gathers to be calculated in the angle domain. Unlike the space-shift image condition for calculating the common-image gather in angle domain, we use the crosscorrelation image condition, which is substantially more efficient. This is a direct method, and is less dependent on the data quality than the space-shift method. The concepts were successfully implemented and tested with 2D synthetic acoustic and elastic examples, including a complicated (Marmousi2) model that illustrates effects of multipathing in angle-domain common-image gathers.
Use of a Decision Aid to Help Caregivers Discuss Terminal Disease Status With a Family Member With Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yun Young Ho , Lee Myung Kyung , Park Sohee , Lee Jung Lim , Park Jeanno , Choi Youn Seon , Lim Yeun Keun , Kim Sam Yong , Jeong Hyun Sik , Kang Jung Hun , Oh Ho-Suk , Park Ji Chan , Kim Si-Young , Song Hong Suk , Ro Jungsil , Lee Keun Seok , Heo Dae Seog , Hong Young Seon
Published: November 2011

Purpose

We tested whether a decision aid explaining how to discuss the approach of death with a family member with cancer would help family caregivers decide to discuss a terminal prognosis.

Patients and Methods

We randomly assigned caregivers of terminally ill patients with cancer to a group that received a video and a companion workbook that showed either how they can discuss the prognosis with their patient (experimental arm) or how cancer pain can be controlled (control arm). At baseline and 1 month, we evaluated the decision to discuss terminal prognosis as the primary outcome. At 0, 1, 3, and 6 months, we assessed the caregivers' decisional conflict and satisfaction as secondary outcomes using a Decision Conflict Scale (DCS).

Results

We found no difference in changes in the decision to discuss terminal prognosis between the two groups. Conflict (P = .003), uncertainty (P = .019), and value clarity (P = .007) subscale scores and total DCS score (P = .008) improved from baseline to 1 month significantly more in the experimental arm than in the control arm. Over 6 months, the significant between-group differences continued for the conflict (P = .031), uncertainty (P = .014), and value clarity (P = .039) subscale scores and total DCS score (P = .040).

Conclusion

Decision aids can help caregivers, with the aid of trained professionals, to communicate with patients about their terminal illness.