bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome 1 abnormalities in myeloid malignancies: a literature survey and karyotype–phenotype associations
Authors: Caramazza Domenica , Hussein Kebede , Siragusa Sergio , Pardanani Animesh , Knudson Ryan A. , Ketterling Rhett P. , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: November 2009

Chromosome 1 is the largest human chromosome and contains over 1600 known genes and 1000 novel coding sequences or transcripts. It is, therefore, not surprising that recurrent chromosome 1 abnormalities are regularly encountered in both neoplastic and non‐neoplastic medical conditions. The current review is focused on myeloid malignancies where we summarize the relevant published literature and discuss specific karyotype–phenotype associations. We show that chromosome 1 abnormalities are most frequent in BCR‐ABL‐negative classic myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN): polycythemia vera (PV), essential thrombocythemia (ET), and primary myelofibrosis (PMF). Specific abnormalities include duplications (e.g. 1q12→1q32 in PV, 1q21–32→1q32–44 in post‐PV MF or PMF), deletions (e.g. 1p13–36→pter in PV or PMF, 1q21 in PMF) and unbalanced translocations involving chromosome 6, such as der(6)t(1;6)(q21–25;p21.3–23), and other partner chromosomes involving 1q10/1p11 and 1q21–25 breakpoints. Although occasionally seen in chronic phase MPN, unbalanced 1;7 translocations, e.g. der(1;7)(q10;p10), are usually seen in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and post‐MPN AML/MDS. These observations suggest that certain chromosome 1 regions, especially 1q21–1q32 and 1p11–13, might harbor oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes that are pathogenetically relevant to both chronic and advanced phases of MPN.
Decreased expression of neurofibromin contributes to epithelial–mesenchymal transition in neurofibromatosis type 1
Authors: Arima Yoshimi , Hayashi Hidemi , Kamata Kanako , Goto Takaaki M. , Sasaki Mikako , Kuramochi Akira , Saya Hideyuki
Published: November 2009

Please cite this paper as: Decreased expression of neurofibromin contributes to epithelial–mesenchymal transition in neurofibromatosis type 1. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: e136–e141.

Abstract:  Plexiform and/or dermal neurofibromas are nerve sheath tumors of the peripheral nervous system that are usually present in individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Neurofibromas arise from Schwann cells with biallelic inactivation of NF1, the gene that encodes neurofibromin. This protein is responsible for regulation of the Ras‐mediated pathway, which has been shown to play a crucial role in epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). EMT is a biological process that occurs during embryogenesis and wound healing and is involved in pathological processes such as organ fibrosis and cancer metastasis. However, the relationship between neurofibromin and EMT has not been elucidated. We investigated whether the EMT‐related signaling pathway was upregulated in NF1‐associated neurofibromas and Schwann cells by assessing the expression levels of the EMT‐related transcription factors Snail, Slug, Twist, ZEB1 and ZEB2. Immunohistochemical studies and quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction revealed an increase in the expression levels of EMT‐related transcription factors in neurofibroma specimens and NF1‐derived Schwann cells (sNF96.2). In addition, the silencing of NF1 by siRNA induced the expression of EMT‐related transcription factors in normal human Schwann cells and in epithelial‐like breast cancer cells. Our findings suggest that the loss of neurofibromin activated the EMT‐related signaling pathway and that the excessive mesenchymal reaction may play a key role in the development of NF1‐associated neurofibromas.
The effect of experimental inhibition of gastric acid secretion on curd formation in abomasum and weight gain of calves
Authors: OKADA Keiji , YAJIMA Kazue , OHBA Takamichi , MIYAZAKI Tamako , ORIHASHI Takenori , SATO Shigeru , YASUDA Jun
Published: November 2009

Eight Holstein bull calves were divided into two groups; a non‐treated control group and a famotidine treated group. Fresh milk was fed twice a day. The experiment was conducted between 7 and 14 days of age. During the experimental period the control group was injected with physiological saline, and the famotidine group was injected with famotidine, a histamine‐H2‐receptor blocker, into the jugular vein 30 minutes prior to each feeding. The control group showed maximum curd formation 2 h after feeding at both 7 and 14 days of age. Curd scores of 7‐day‐old and 14‐day‐old calves were significantly lower in the famotidine than in the control group at 2 and 4 h after feeding. Most fecal samples from the famotidine group exhibited an acidic smell. The famotidine group showed significantly lower values for both average weight gain and the rate of weight gain from 7 to 14 days of age. The inhibition of gastric acid secretion decreased curd formation in the abomasum as well as daily weight gain compared to non‐treated control calves. This suggested that curd formation in the abomasum is important for the weight gain of newborn calves.
Implant‐retained thumb prosthesis with anti‐rotational attachment for a geriatric patient
Authors: Goiato Marcelo Coelho , Garcia‐Júnior Idelmo Rangel , Magro‐Filho Osvaldo , Dos Santos Daniela Micheline , Pellizzer Eduardo Piza
Published: November 2009

doi:10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2009.00283.x
 
Implant‐retained thumb prosthesis with anti‐rotational attachment for a geriatric patient

This report presents the use of a dental implant with an anti‐rotational attachment for the retention of a thumb prosthesis. A retention system was manufactured with an attachment (UCLA) screwed into the implant with a two‐bar system that was cast in metallic silver palladium. A substructure made from heat‐cured acrylic resin was joined to the retention system by clips to join the thumb to the finger (bar clip) in the cast with implant rejoinder. The silicone material, Silastic‐MDX 44210, was used to achieve function and aesthetics. Following osseointegration, no skin problems were observed. Whilst the implant‐retained digital prosthesis presented some motor limitations, it allowed the patient to return to entertainment and achieve social conviviality.
Small peptides derived from the Lys active fragment of the mung bean trypsin inhibitor are fully active against trypsin
Authors: Qi Rui‐Feng , Liu Zhi‐Xue , Xu Shao‐Qiong , Zhang Ling , Shao Xiao‐Xia , Chi Cheng‐Wu
Published: November 2009

The Bowman–Birk protease inhibitors have recently attracted attention for their potential as cancer preventive and suppressing agents. They contain two canonical binding loops, both consisting of nine highly conserved residues capable of inhibiting corresponding serine proteases. In this study, we cloned the cDNA of the mung bean trypsin inhibitor, one of the most studied Bowman–Birk protease inhibitors. A modified peptide, Lys33GP, with 33 residues derived from the long chain of the Lys active fragment of mung bean trypsin inhibitor, was successfully expressed in Escherichia coli as a glutathione‐S‐transferase fusion protein. The recombinant product was obtained with a high yield, and exhibited potent inhibitory activity. Meanwhile, a shorter peptide composed of only 16 residues (the Lys16 peptide), corresponding to the active core of the fragment, was synthesized. Both the recombinant and the synthesized peptides had the same inhibitory activity toward trypsin at a molar ratio of 1 : 1, implying that the Lys16 peptide with two disulfide bonds is possibly the essential structural unit for inhibitory activity. Using site‐directed mutagenesis, the P1 position Lys was replaced by Phe, and the resulting mutant, Lys33K/F, was determined to have potent chymotrypsin inhibitory activity. Both Lys33GP and the Lys33K/F mutant may be potential pharmaceutical agents for the prevention of oncogenesis.
Different roles of functional residues in the hydrophobic binding site of two sweet orange tau glutathione S‐transferases
Authors: Lo Piero Angela R. , Mercurio Valeria , Puglisi Ivana , Petrone Goffredo
Published: November 2009

Glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) catalyze the conjugation of glutathione to hydrophobic compounds, contributing to the metabolism of toxic chemicals. In this study, we show that two naturally occurring tau GSTs (GSTUs) exhibit distinctive kinetic parameters towards 1‐chloro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene (CDNB), although they differ only in three amino acids (Arg89, Glu117 and Ile172 in GSTU1 are replaced by Pro89, Lys117 and Val172 in GSTU2). In order to understand the effects of the single mismatched residues, several mutant GSTs were generated through site‐directed mutagenesis. The analysis of the kinetic parameters of the mutants led to the conclusion that Glu117 provides a critical contribution to the maintenance of a high‐affinity CDNB‐binding site. However, the substitution E117K gives rise to mutants showing increased kcat values for CDNB, suggesting that Lys117 might positively influence the formation of the transition state during catalysis. No changes in the Km values towards glutathione were found between the naturally occurring GSTs and mutants, except for the mutant caused by the substitution R89P in GSTU1, which showed a sharp increase in Km. Moreover, the analysis of enzyme reactivation after denaturation showed that this R89P substitution leads to a two‐fold enhancement of the refolded enzyme yield, suggesting that the insertion of proline might induce critical structural modifications. In contrast, the substitution P89R in GSTU2 does not modify the reactivation yield and does not impair the affinity of the mutant for glutathione, suggesting that all three residues investigated in this work are fundamental in the creation of enzymes characterized by unique biochemical properties.
Multiple Well‐Shutdown Tests and Site‐Scale Flow Simulation in Fractured Rocks
Authors: Tiedeman Claire R. , Lacombe Pierre J. , Goode Daniel J.
Published: November 2009

A new method was developed for conducting aquifer tests in fractured‐rock flow systems that have a pump‐and‐treat (P&T) operation for containing and removing groundwater contaminants. The method involves temporary shutdown of individual pumps in wells of the P&T system. Conducting aquifer tests in this manner has several advantages, including (1) no additional contaminated water is withdrawn, and (2) hydraulic containment of contaminants remains largely intact because pumping continues at most wells. The well‐shutdown test method was applied at the former Naval Air Warfare Center (NAWC), West Trenton, New Jersey, where a P&T operation is designed to contain and remove trichloroethene and its daughter products in the dipping fractured sedimentary rocks underlying the site. The detailed site‐scale subsurface geologic stratigraphy, a three‐dimensional MODFLOW model, and inverse methods in UCODE_2005 were used to analyze the shutdown tests. In the model, a deterministic method was used for representing the highly heterogeneous hydraulic conductivity distribution and simulations were conducted using an equivalent porous media method. This approach was very successful for simulating the shutdown tests, contrary to a common perception that flow in fractured rocks must be simulated using a stochastic or discrete fracture representation of heterogeneity. Use of inverse methods to simultaneously calibrate the model to the multiple shutdown tests was integral to the effectiveness of the approach.
Transient Divergent Flow and Transport in an Infinite Anisotropic Porous Formation
Authors: Mathias Simon A.
Published: November 2009

When seeking to predict plume geometry resulting from fluid injection through partially penetrating wells, it is common to assume a steady‐state spherically diverging flow field. In reality, the flow field is transient. The steady‐flow assumption is likely to cause overestimation of injection plume radius since the accommodation of fluid by increases in porosity and fluid density is ignored. In this paper, a transient solution is developed, resulting in a nonlinear ordinary differential equation expressing plume radius as a function of time. It is shown that the problem can be fully described by one type curve. A critical time, tc, is identified at which the percentage error of the steady‐state flow solution compared to the fully dynamic problem is less than 1%. Only for large injection rates and low permeabilities, does tc become greater than 1 h. Nevertheless, an improved approximate solution is obtained by a simple linearization procedure. The critical time, tc for the new approximate solution is 0.3% of that required for the steady‐state flow solution.
Heme Oxygenase Inhibition by 2‐Oxy‐substituted 1‐Azolyl‐4‐phenylbutanes: Effect of Variation of the Azole Moiety. X‐Ray Crystal Structure of Human Heme Oxygenase‐1 in Complex with 4‐Phenyl‐1‐(1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)‐2‐butanone†
Authors: Roman Gheorghe , Rahman Mona N. , Vukomanovic Dragic , Jia Zongchao , Nakatsu Kanji , Szarek Walter A.
Published: November 2009

A series of 1‐azolyl‐4‐phenyl‐2‐butanones was designed and synthesized for the inhibition of heme oxygenases (heme oxygenase‐1 and heme oxygenase‐2). The replacement of imidazole by other azoles led to the discovery of novel 1H‐1,2,4‐triazole‐ and 1H‐tetrazole‐based inhibitors equipotent to a lead imidazole‐based inhibitor. The inhibitors featuring 2H‐tetrazole or 1H‐1,2,3‐triazole as the pharmacophore were less potent. Monosubstitution at position 2 or 4(5), or identical disubstitution at positions 4 and 5 of imidazole by a variety of electron‐withdrawing or electron‐donating, small or bulky groups, as well as the replacement of the traditional imidazole pharmacophore by an array of 3‐ or 5‐substituted triazoles, identically 3,5‐disubstituted triazoles, 5‐substituted‐1H‐ and 5‐substituted‐2H‐tetrazoles proved to be detrimental to the inhibition of HO, with a few exceptions. The azole‐dioxolanes and the azole‐alcohols derived from the active azole‐ketones were synthesized also, but these inhibitors were less active than the corresponding imidazole‐based analogs. The first reported X‐ray crystal structure of human heme oxygenase‐1 in complex with a 1,2,4‐triazole‐based inhibitor, namely 4‐phenyl‐1‐(1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)‐2‐butanone, was also determined. The inhibitor binds to the human heme oxygenase‐1 distal pocket through the coordination of heme iron by theN 4in the triazole moiety, whereas the phenyl group is stabilized by hydrophobic interactions from residues within the binding pocket.
Structure–Activity Analysis of the Growth Hormone Secretagogue GHRP‐6 by α‐ and β‐Amino γ‐Lactam Positional Scanning
Authors: Boutard Nicolas , Jamieson Andrew G. , Ong Huy , Lubell William D.
Published: November 2009

Incorporation of amino lactams into biologically active peptides restricts conformational mobility and may enhance selectivity and increase potency. α‐ and β‐amino γ‐lactams (Agl and Bgl), in both S and R configurations, were introduced into the growth hormone secretagogue GHRP‐6 using a Fmoc‐compatible solid‐phase protocol relying on N‐alkylation with five‐ and six‐membered cyclic sulfamidates, followed by lactam annulation under microwave heating. Using this protocol in conjunction with IRORI KanTM techniques furnished eleven new GHRP‐6 analogs, and their binding affinity IC50 values on both the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1a (GHS‐R1a) and CD36 receptors are herein reported. The results indicate that selectivity towards one receptor or the other can be modulated by lactam substitution, typically at the Ala3 and the d‐Phe5 positions.
Structure‐Based Design of Residue 1 Analogs of the Direct Thrombin Inhibitor Pentapeptide FM 19
Authors: Girnys Elizabeth A. , Sobczyk‐Kojiro Katarzyna , Mosberg Henry I.
Published: November 2009

Myocardial ischemia and other acute coronary syndromes are leading causes of death worldwide, and often result from a thrombus that blocks an atherosclerotic coronary artery. A key enzyme in thrombus formation is the serine protease thrombin, which is responsible for both the conversion of soluble fibrinogen into insoluble fibrin, as well as the activation of the GPCRs, PAR1 and PAR4, which stimulate platelet aggregation. Thus, thrombin is an attractive target for anticoagulant and antithrombotic therapy. Previous studies in our laboratory led to the development of lead compound FM 19 (d‐Arg‐Oic‐Pro‐d‐Ala‐Phe(p‐Me)‐NH2), which shows modest potency as a thrombin inhibitor. The recently determined X‐ray structure of FM 19 in the active site of thrombin has revealed potential sites for modification to improve potency. This study reports replacements to the first residue (d‐Arg1) of FM 19, which seek to improve potency by removing the N‐terminal amine to eliminate an adverse electrostatic interaction, and alterations to the length of the side chain to eliminate an unfavorable eclipsed conformation observed in the X‐ray structure. This study produced two compounds, 1 and 9, with improved α‐thrombin inhibition (IC50 values of 0.66 ± 0.20 μm and 0.57 ± 0.12 μm, respectively).
Early Twentieth‐Century Racial Discrimination Cases in State Supreme Courts
Authors: ROMERO FRANCINE S.
Published: November 2009

An aspect of civil rights litigation receiving scant scholarly attention is the response of state supreme courts to racial discrimination claims in the early twentieth century. While scholarship on general social context suggests claims would find more support in non‐southern courts and in the later years of the period, this has not been systematically investigated. Furthermore, while the literature on the U.S. Supreme Court establishes variance patterns by discrimination type, they cannot necessarily be extrapolated to state outcomes. I show that since the predictive utility of frameworks “borrowed” from other studies is dubious in this context, these state cases demand their own unique investigation and understanding. The assessment of two key clusters of cases offered here suggests distinct patterns in southern jury discrimination and northern public accommodations decisions. In the former, claims were routinely denied, with U.S. Supreme Court precedent occasionally used to overturn a conviction. In the latter, plaintiffs relying on state civil rights statutes were mostly successful.

Un aspecto del litigio por los derechos civiles que recibe escasa atención académica es la respuesta de la Suprema Corte estatal a los reclamos por discriminación racial a principios del siglo XX. Aunque los estudios del contexto social general sugieren que los reclamos encontrarían mayor apoyo en cortes no‐sureñas, en los años posteriores a dicho periodo, esto no ha sido sistemáticamente investigado. Además, aunque la literatura sobre la Suprema Corte de Justicia establece diferentes patrones por tipo de discriminación, estos no pueden ser necesariamente extrapolados al nivel de resultados estatales. Demuestro que dado que la utilidad predictiva de esquemas “prestados” de otros estudios es discutible en este contexto, estos casos estatales requieren su propia investigación e interpretación. La evaluación de dos grupos claves de casos propuestos aquí sugiere patrones distintivos en la discriminación de los jurados sureños y las decisiones de “public accommodations” norteñas. En el primero, los reclamos fueron rutinariamente rechazados, ocasionalmente invocando precedente de la Suprema Corte de Justicia para darle vuelta a la condena. En el segundo grupo, los demandantes que descansaron su caso en los estatutos estatales sobre los derechos civiles en su mayoría tuvieron éxito.
Eleventh Amendment Immunity in Contemporary Practice: Revisiting the Legal Liability of Local Government in the United States
Authors: FRENCH P. EDWARD
Published: November 2009

Sovereign immunity is deeply rooted in the American system of government, and its role in balancing individual rights with democratic rule is crucial in litigation still today. This research highlights the fundamental principle of sovereignty and reviews relevant cases as it examines the legal liability of local governments in the twenty‐first century. While the U.S. Supreme Court continues to reject immunity below the state level, the lower courts have extended Eleventh Amendment immunity to local government entities in some cases. The author posits that the modernization and delegation of powers to cities, counties, and other local political subdivisions warrant a more contemporary and explicit interpretation of sovereignty by the U.S. judicial system.

La inmunidad soberana estatal está profundamente arraigada en el sistema americano de gobierno, y su papel en ajustar el gobierno democrático a los derechos individuales es crucial en la litigación aún hoy. Esta investigación destaca el principio fundamental de la soberanía y revisa casos relevantes mientras examina la responsabilidad legal de los gobiernos locales en el siglo XXI. Mientras la Suprema Corte de Justicia continúa rechazando la inmunidad del nivel estatal para abajo, en algunos casos las cortes estatales han ampliado la inmunidad de la Onceava Enmienda a las entidades de los gobiernos locales. El autor propone que la modernización y la delegación de poderes a las ciudades, condados, y otras subdivisiones políticas locales garantizan una interpretación más contemporánea y explicita de la soberanía del sistema judicial de los Estados Unidos.
Government and Individual Liberty: The Rehnquist Court's Stop and Frisk Decisions
Authors: PUFONG MARC G. , KLUBALL CHARLES
Published: November 2009

Relying on the 1968 “Stop and Frisk” policy, the Rehnquist Court (1986‐2005) expanded the powers of national and state law enforcement authorities at the expense of individual liberties. This article views Stop and Frisk as a policy arena that generates consistent contests that can reveal how the Supreme Court advances or restrains individual rights. Combining the Attitudinal and Packer models, we determine whether the justices exhibit consistent ideological patterns and assess whether their interagreements reinforce Stop and Frisk or support individual liberties. The finding of one moderate voting bloc suggests attitude cohesion and stability in decisional output in this policy arena. The implication perhaps is that the absence of a rival “liberal bloc” signals an acceptance of Packer's “crime control” mindset on justice administration over the rival “due process” model. Since the “crime” model remains highly contested as a realistic policy alternative to “due process,” the outcome revealed here is the most plausible.

Basándose en la política de 1968 de “Stop and Frisk,” la Corte de Rehnquist (1986‐2005) expandió los poderes de las autoridades, nacionales y estatales, del orden público a expensas de las libertades individuales. Este articulo considera al “Stop and Frisk” como arena de políticas que genera luchas constantes que pueden revelar como la Corte Suprema promueve o restringe los derechos civiles. Combinando los modelos Actitudinal y Packer, determinamos si los Jueces presentaron patrones ideológicos consistentes y evaluamos si sus acuerdos refuerzan al “Stop and Frisk” o apoyan a las libertades individuales. El hallazgo de un bloque moderado de votación sugiere una actitud de cohesión y estabilidad en esta arena de políticas. La implicación quizá es que la ausencia de un “bloque liberal” rival señala una aceptación de la perspectiva del “control de crimen” de Packer sobre la administración de la justicia mayor a la del modelo rival del “debido proceso.” Dado que el modelo de “crimen” continúa siendo objeto de debate como una alternativa política viable al “debido proceso,” el resultado revelado aquí es el más plausible.
The Hidden Politics of Identity: Racial Self‐Identification and Latino Political Engagement
Authors: STOKES‐BROWN ATIYA KAI
Published: November 2009

Although prior research suggests that cultural identity is a strong determinant of Latino political behavior, few studies have examined the significance of racial self‐identification formation for Latinos and how it influences Latino political engagement. I analyze the 2004 Pew/Kaiser National Survey of Latinos using ordered probit and logit models. The data support previous research which shows that a growing number of Latinos are shifting their reported racial category from standard categories like “black” and “white” and are instead choosing to racially identify as “Latino” or “Hispanic.” Furthermore, I find that political attitudes and behaviors are significantly related to Latino racial identity. The findings suggest that shifting racial identity in the Latino community has important implications for understanding Latino political engagement and future racial identification patterns in the United States more broadly.

Aunque investigaciones previas sugieren que la identidad cultural es un fuerte determinante del comportamiento político Latino, pocos estudios han examinado la importancia de la formación de la auto‐identificación racial de los Latinos y cómo influye en el compromiso político Latino. Analizo la Encuesta Nacional Pew/Kaiser de 2004 utilizando modelos ordenados de probit y logit. La información confirma investigaciones previas que señalan que un número creciente de Latinos está cambiando su categoría racial reportada de categorías estándares como “negro” o “blanco” a “Latino” o “Hispano.” Además, encuentro que las actitudes y comportamientos políticos están significativamente relacionados a la identidad racial Latina. En términos generales, las conclusiones demuestran que la identidad racial cambiante en la comunidad Latina tiene importantes implicaciones para comprender el compromiso y patrones futuros de identificación racial en los Estados Unidos.
Service Delivery of Relationship Support Programs in Australia: Implications for the “Community Sector”
Authors: VAN ACKER ELIZABETH
Published: November 2009

Governments confront many challenges as they rely increasingly on community sector agencies to deliver services. This has implications for the governance of service delivery, policy implementation, and partnerships. This article examines two interconnected concerns for the delivery of relationship support programs in Australia. First, it investigates the key characteristics that influence how government delivers services and whether it develops partnerships with the community sector. Second, it explores the challenges experienced by Australian agencies that deliver relationship support programs: early intervention and prevention strategies to provide couples with the knowledge and skills necessary to develop and maintain robust relationships. It does this by providing a qualitative study that includes findings from 27 semistructured interviews with service providers. The central argument is that community organizations with diverse needs, values, and clients encounter many constraints when delivering relationship services. Consequently, it will be difficult to establish effective partnerships between government and agencies.

Los gobiernos enfrentan muchos desafíos mientras dependen cada vez más en agencias del sector comunitario para prestar sus servicios. Esto tiene implicaciones para la gobernanza de la prestación de servicios, implementación de políticas, y las asociaciones. Este artículo examina dos inquietudes interconectadas de la entrega de los programas de consejería a las parejas en Australia. En primer lugar, investiga las características claves que influyen en cómo los gobiernos prestan servicios y si acaso desarrolla una vinculación con el sector comunitario. En segundo lugar, explora los desafíos experimentados por las agencias Australianas que proveen programas de consejería a las parejas: una intervención y estrategias de prevención tempranas para proveer a las parejas del conocimiento y las habilidades necesarias para desarrollar y mantener relaciones sólidas. Realiza esto al proveer un estudio cualitativo que incluye conclusiones de 27 entrevistas semiestructuradas con los prestadores de servicios. El argumento central del artículo es que las organizaciones comunitarias con diversas necesidades, valores, y clientes enfrentan muchas limitaciones cuando prestan los servicios a parejas. En consecuencia, será difícil establecer asociaciones efectivas entre el gobierno y las agencias.
Chapter I. Chernobyl Contamination: An Overview
Authors: Nesterenko Vassily B. , Yablokov Alexey V.
Published: November 2009

Radioactive contamination from the Chernobyl meltdown spread over 40% of Europe (including Austria, Finland, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, Romania, Great Britain, Germany, Italy, France, Greece, Iceland, Slovenia) and wide territories in Asia (including Turkey, Georgia, Armenia, Emirates, China), northern Africa, and North America. Nearly 400 million people resided in territories that were contaminated with radioactivity at a level higher than 4 kBq/m2 (0.11 Ci/km2) from April to July 1986. Nearly 5 million people (including, more than 1 million children) still live with dangerous levels of radioactive contamination in Belarus, Ukraine, and European Russia. Claims that the Chernobyl radioactive fallout adds “only 2%” to the global radioactive background overshadows the fact that many affected territories had previously dangerously high levels of radiation. Even if the current level is low, there was high irradiation in the first days and weeks after the Chernobyl catastrophe. There is no reasonable explanation for the fact that the International Atomic Energy Agency and the World Health Organization (Chernobyl Forum, 2005) have completely neglected the consequences of radioactive contamination in other countries, which received more than 50% of the Chernobyl radionuclides, and addressed concerns only in Belarus, Ukraine, and European Russia.
Immunophenotype of myeloid granulocytes: a pilot study for distinguishing myelodysplastic syndrome and aplastic anemia by flow cytometry
Authors: HUANG M. , LI J. , ZHAO G. , SUI X. , ZHAO X. , XU H.
Published: November 2009

It is often difficult to distinguish myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) from aplastic anemia (AA) because of the considerable clinical, cytologic histologic similarities between these two disorders; however, distinguishing between AA and MDS is of great importance because there is a higher risk of progression to acute leukemia in patients with MDS compared with AA. Up to now, CD34+ cells in MDS and AA patients have been studied extensively; however, little information is available on myeloid granulocytes. The aim of this study was to determine whether immunophenotype of myeloid granulocytes in AA patients was different from that of MDS. Flow cytometry was used to assess the immunophenotype of myeloid granulocytes in 22 patients with MDS, 12 with AA, and 10 normal subjects. Our data showed that the percentages of CD13+ granulocytes, CD33+ granulocytes, CD34+ granulocytes, and HLA‐DR+ granulocytes were significantly higher in patients with MDS than in AA patients and normal subjects (P < 0.05). The percentages of CD15+ granulocytes and CD10+ granulocytes were significantly lower in patients with MDS than in AA patients and normal subjects (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the expression of these markers between patients with AA and normal subjects (P > 0.05). As refractory anemia progressing to refractory anemia with excess blasts, the percentages of CD13+ granulocytes, CD33+ granulocytes, CD34+ granulocytes and HLA‐DR+ granulocytes were significantly increased, whereas, the percentage of CD15+ granulocytes was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). These data suggest that immunophenotype of myeloid granulocytes may be a useful parameter for the differential diagnosis of MDS and AA.
Peripheral blood vs. bone marrow for molecular monitoring of BCR‐ABL1 levels in chronic myelogenous leukemia, a retrospective analysis in allogeneic bone marrow recipients
Authors: BALLESTRERO A. , CIRMENA G. , DOMINIETTO A. , GARUTI A. , ROCCO I. , CEA M. , MORAN E. , NENCIONI A. , MIGLINO M. , RAIOLA A. M. , BACIGALUPO A. , PATRONE F.
Published: November 2009

Molecular monitoring of the BCR‐ABL1 transcript in chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) using quantitative real‐time PCR (RQ‐PCR) can be performed using either bone marrow (BM) or peripheral blood (PB). However, a recent report by Stock et al. [International Journal of Oncology 28 (2006) 1099] questioned the reliability of PB samples for BCR‐ABL1 detection as performed by RQ‐PCR. We report a study on 114 CML patients who received allogeneic stem cell transplantation (ASCT), and who were monitored by RQ‐PCR using paired samples of BM and PB: the total number of determinations was 428, with a median follow‐up after transplant of 8 years. BCR‐ABL1 transcript was undetectable or <0.1%, in 106 (49.57%) and 62 (29%) paired determinations, respectively. BCR‐ABL1 was >0.1% in 36 (16.8%) paired determinations and was discordant in 10 (4.7%). Agreement between PB and BM results was quantified by the kappa test (k = 0.85; 95% CI 0.76–0.94). This study shows that BCR‐ABL1 RQ‐PCR monitoring of CML patients after ASCT with PB is concordant with BM in 95.3% of cases, and thus may be used to monitor the disease. This may be relevant when discussing both quality of life issues and the need for post‐transplant monitoring with the patient.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Pro‐hepcidin and iron metabolism parameters in multi‐time blood donors
Authors: BOINSKA J. , ŻEKANOWSKA E. , KWAPISZ J.
Published: November 2009

A high number of blood donations may cause iron depletion. The pathophysiology behind this process may involve hepcidin, a recently discovered peptide that acts by inhibiting iron absorption and promoting iron retention in reticuloendothelial macrophages. The aim of this study was to determine serum pro‐hepcidin levels and iron metabolism parameters in multi‐time blood donors. The study group consisted of 132 multi‐time male blood donors and 25 healthy male volunteers (nondonors). Complete blood cell count and iron status including serum iron, ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), total iron binding capacity (TIBC), unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC), erythropoietin and pro‐hepcidin (ELISA) were assessed. In blood donors, ferritin level drops markedly in relation to donation frequency (P < 0.001). In contrast, TIBC and UIBC levels increase progressively corresponding to annual donation frequency. Pro‐hepcidin concentration increases significantly with the number of donations per year (P = 0.0290). In blood donors having donated blood with the highest frequency per year, pro‐hepcidin levels were positively correlated with haemoglobin (R = 0.31, P < 0.05) and negatively with sTfR (R = −0.31, P < 0.05). Pro‐hepcidin levels increase in relation to blood donation frequency per year. Longitudinal studies focusing on changes in serum hepcidin levels are required to address the question whether hepcidin may contribute to iron metabolism disturbances in multi‐times blood donors.
High‐Resolution LA‐ICP‐MS for Accurate Determination of Low Abundances of K, Sc and Other Trace Elements in Geological Samples
Authors: Regnery Julia , Stoll Brigitte , Jochum Klaus Peter
Published: November 2009

Laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) was used to determine K, Sc, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Co, Ni and Zn in geological samples. Because the isotopes of these elements and the internal standard element (Ca) often have interferences from molecular ions when determined using quadrupole or sector‐field ICP‐MS in low mass resolution mode, ion intensities were measured at a high mass resolution of 4000. We investigated dynamic element fractionation, type and abundance of molecular ions using different geological reference materials. Highly resolved mass spectra were especially important for accurate low‐abundance measurements. As a result, maximum “critical” concentration limits for each isotope were obtained, where a mass resolution of 4000 was necessary for reliable LA‐ICP‐MS analysis. To test the LA‐ICP‐MS technique, different international reference material glasses and powdered rock reference materials were analysed. Rock powders were fused to glass beads using an Ir‐strip heater. Nearly all concentration values for the reference materials agreed with the reference values at the 95% confidence level. To demonstrate routine LA‐ICP‐MS analysis at a mass resolution of 4000, trace element data for Hawaiian basalts are also presented.
Measuring Hg Isotopes in Bio‐Geo‐Environmental Reference Materials
Authors: Estrade Nicolas , Carignan Jean , Sonke Jeroen E. , Donard Olivier F.X.
Published: November 2009

With the emergence of new analytical techniques and the expansion of scientific fields explored by using mercury isotopes, the community needs reference materials (RM) to validate and assure the accuracy of the results. The present work investigates (1) the characterisation of secondary RM in order to validate analytical systems, (2) the effects of two complex matrices on isotopic determination using stannous chloride cold vapour generation coupled to MC‐ICP‐MS (CV‐MC‐ICP‐MS), (3) the effects of multiple digestion techniques for total Hg extraction and (4) the characterisation of nine geo‐bio‐environmental RM. Two secondary mono‐elemental RMs analysed using two different analytical setups yielded isotopic compositions on δ202Hg of −3.54 ± 0.27‰ (CRPG‐F65A, 2SD, n = 38) and +2.59 ± 0.19‰ (CRPG‐RL24H, 2SD, n = 30) relative to the CRM NIST SRM 3133. These two RMs cover the whole range of Hg isotopic fractionation in natural samples and are made available to the scientific community. Complex fly ash and hydroxysulfate green rust matrices were synthesised, spiked with NIST SRM 3133, then digested and finally analysed versus the mono‐elemental NIST SRM 3133 to show potential effect of these complex matrices during CV‐MC‐ICP‐MS. Three digestions techniques, including traditional acid digestion, microwave digestion and high pressure‐high temperature digestion, were applied to the lichen RM BCR‐482 in order to compare advantages and drawbacks of these methods. Finally, the isotopic compositions of nine RMs including soils (NIST SRM 2711; GXR‐2; GSS‐4), sediment (GSD‐10), jasperoid (GXR‐1), ore deposit (GXR‐3), fly ashes (BCR‐176; BCR‐176R) and lichen (BCR‐482) are reported. These selected materials have δ202Hg values ranging from −1.75‰ to +0.11‰. Some RMs also presented mass‐independent fractionation with Δ199Hg and Δ201Hg of up to −0.6‰.
Comparative safety and effectiveness of TCu380A versus MLCu375: a systematic review of randomized trials
Authors: Wen Jin , Li Ying , Li You‐ping , Wang Li
Published: November 2009

Objective To compare the relative effectiveness and side effects of two intrauterine devices (IUDs), TCu380A and Multiload Cu375 (MLCu375).

Methods We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, POPLINE, SCOPUS, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature Database in all languages, along with reference lists of retrieved papers. Randomized controlled trials comparing TCu380A with MLCu375 were included. The outcomes examined were pregnancy, continuation, removal, expulsion, infection, pain, abnormal menstruation, uterine perforation, and other adverse events. Two reviewers independently extracted the data. Data from the trials were combined to calculate relative risks (RRs) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results Sixteen trials were included, involving 15236 participants. Generally the methodological quality was poor. Compared to MLCu375, TCu380A was associated with less pregnancy and expulsion at five years with (RR: 0.49, 95% CI: 0.33 to 0.72; RR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.45 to 0.89; respectively), as well as more removals for bleeding and/or pain at three years and pelvic infection disease over the whole study period (RR: 1.83, 95% CI: 1.28 to 2.62; RR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.03 to 2.11; respectively). There were no statistical differences at all time intervals to 5 years in continuation rates or rates of uterine perforation.

Conclusions While there was some variability between study results, we found evidence that TCu380A is more effective than MLCu375, with a similar side‐effect profile.
A comparative study on earthquake‐related literature published in medical journals
Authors: Li Youping , Wen Jin , Du Liang , Gao Zhan , Li Ling , Chen Qunfei , Liu Xuemei , Cai Yujia , Ai Changlin
Published: November 2009

Objective: To provide references for production and dissemination of evidence in the fields of medical emergency management, treatment, and prevention of epidemics after May 2008 Wenchuan earthquake by systematically reviewing, analyzing, and comparing quake related papers in medical journals.

Methods: We systematically searched MEDLINE and CBM (Chinese Biomedical Literature) databases (range: from inception to Sept. 2009). Quake related papers were imported into EndNote software, checked for duplication, and categorized by predefined standards. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 13.0.

Results: There were relatively fewer quake related articles globally before the occurrence of the Wenchuan earthquake, and the quantity of papers in MEDLINE was four times than that in CBM. In contrast, the quantity of Chinese quake articles increased rapidly after Wenchuan earthquake, peaking in Aug. 2008 at 6.9 times the average during the 50 years before the quake. The quake related papers in CBM appeared in 378 journals covering a diverse range of subject matter. Meanwhile, there was little change in the quantity of quake related articles in MEDLINE database.

Conclusions: The effort of producing and disseminating Wenchuan earthquake related medical research has been effectively organized and conducted in a scientific and timely manner, producing the largest in number of quake related medical papers in human history. It has provided first‐hand guidance for disaster medical relief around the globe. We should strengthen the systematic construction of disaster medicine, and make an effort to summarize and disseminate evidence in the fields of rehabilitation, system reestablishment, and prevention of epidemics.
Construction and operation of a system for secure and precise medical material distribution in disaster areas after Wenchuan earthquake
Authors: Cheng Yongzhong , Xu Jiankang , Ma Jian , Cheng Shusen , Shi Yingkang
Published: November 2009

After the Wenchuan Earthquake on May 12th, 2008, under the strong leadership of the Sichuan Provincial Party Committee, the People's Government of Sichuan Province, and the Ministry of Health of the People's Republic of China, the Medical Security Team working at the Sichuan Provincial Headquarters for Wenchuan Earthquake and Disaster Relief Work constructed a secure medical material distribution system through coordination and interaction among and between regions, systems, and departments.
Is primary care evidence‐based in Turkey?
Authors: Kahveci Rabia , Meads Catherine
Published: November 2009

Objective Family medicine (also called general practice) is a specialty with a focus on primary care. In Turkey, not all primary care is provided by specialists. Efforts are underway to improve primary care by improving the provision of primary care, establishing referral chains, and having care provided by general practitioners after transition training or by family medicine specialists. We investigated the relationship between evidence‐based medicine (EBM) and primary care in Turkey, to provide a snapshot of the current situation and baseline data to assess the effects of current and future reforms.

Methods A cross‐sectional survey was done of 375 primary care physicians: 138 general practitioners (GPs), 121 family medicine (FM) trainees, and 116 FM specialists. They were asked 30 questions assessing general characteristics, knowledge, and training in EBM; general attitudes towards EBM; resources used to support clinical decisions; possible barriers to EBM practice; and opinions on future practice of EBM. Data were analyzed with SPSS 12.0.

Results Compared with the other physicians, FM specialists had significantly more Internet access, used the Internet for medical purposes more often and for longer hours, had published more scientific papers, searched MEDLINE or similar databases more often, and were more confident about conducting literature searches. FM specialists had significantly higher rates of training in EBM and critical appraisal. For all types of physicians surveyed, the main reported barrier to practicing EBM was lack of training in EBM.

Conclusions Attitudes toward EBM differ significantly between GPs and FM specialists working in primary care in Turkey, which we believe results in variation in medical provision. The differences between these two groups of physicians should be investigated further, and means of improving the provision of care should be reported to policy makers.
Trans‐Province Transfer of 10,373 Patients Injured in Wenchuan Earthquake
Authors: Chen Jin , Zhao Wanhua , Xian Ming , Lu Jun , Liang Zhi
Published: November 2009

Objective A retrospective summary of the planning, organization, and implementation of the trans‐province transfer of patients injured in Wenchuan Earthquake with an emphasis on experiences that may be helpful in future emergency rescue and patient transfer.

Methods We collected the daily reports of a patient transfer team attached to the Sichuan Rescue Headquarters from May 12 through May 31, 2008.

Results Under the guidance of policy made by the coordinating group of the Ministry of Health, and with the close cooperation of the railway and airline departments the transferring group transferred 10,373 patients in the period studied. The transfers were from 11 disaster areas, including Chengdu, Mianyang, and Deyang, to 20 cities and provinces, including Chongqing, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang. There were no casualties during transfer, and thus the biggest peacetime government‐organized trans‐province patient‐transfer in China's history achieved success.

Conclusion Trans‐province patient transfer is an effective measure to compensate for inadequate medical materials, relieve pressure on medical rescue, and guarantee quality of treatment. In the future, emergency plans for different types of disasters will be established, the information platform will be improved, and transfer procedures will be specified.
The Sourcil Sign: A Useful Finding on Plain X-ray?
Authors: Smith Chris , Dattani Rupen , Deans Victoria , Drew Steve
Published: November 2009

Background

The radiographic finding of the ‘sourcil sign’ from plain X-ray has previously been suggested to be an indicator of rotator cuff pathology. However, little evidence exists to support this hypothesis. We set out to clarify whether plain X-rays changes are a useful adjunct for the diagnosis of rotator cuff disease.

Methods

The radiographs of 175 patients presenting to an orthopaedic shoulder clinic with shoulder pain were evaluated for the presence of the ‘sourcil sign’ by a single observer, blinded to the patient's diagnosis. A second observer, blinded to the radiological findings, examined the patient's medical notes to determine the diagnosis. The patients were divided into age groups of each decade.

Results

Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were all poor for the radiological signs as predictors of rotator cuff pathology, regardless of age. The incidence of the sourcil sign did not correlate with impingement syndrome, rotator cuff tears or age.

Conclusion

The results obtained demonstrate that the sourcil does not aid the diagnosis when seen.