bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Motives and Perceived Consequences of Nonmedical ADHD Medication Use by College Students
Authors: Rabiner David L. , Anastopoulos Arthur D. , Costello E. Jane , Hoyle Rick H. , McCabe Sean Esteban , Swartzwelder H. Scott
Published: July 2008

Objective: This study examines why college students without a prescription take ADHD medication, what they perceive the consequences of this to be, and whether attention problems are associated with this behavior. Method: More than 3,400 undergraduates attending one public and one private university in the southeastern United States completed a Web-based survey. Results: Nonmedical ADHD medication use in the prior 6 months was reported by 5.4% of respondents and was positively associated with self-reported attention difficulties. Enhancing the ability to study was the most frequent motive reported; nonacademic motives were less common. Students perceived nonmedical use to be beneficial despite frequent reports of adverse reactions. Conclusion: Students without prescriptions use ADHD medication primarily to enhance academic performance and may do so to ameliorate attention problems that they experience as undermining their academic success. The academic, social, and biomedical consequences of illicit ADHD medication use among college students should be researched further. (J. of Att. Dis. 2009; 13(3) 259-270)
ADHD Subtypes and Co-Occurring Anxiety, Depression, and Oppositional-Defiant Disorder
Authors: Mayes Susan Dickerson , Calhoun Susan L. , Chase Gary A. , Mink Danielle M. , Stagg Ryan E.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Freedom-from-Distractibility/Working Memory Index (FDI/WMI), Processing Speed Index (PSI), and Gordon Diagnostic System (GDS) scores in ADHD children were examined as a function of subtype and coexisting anxiety, depression, and oppositional-defiant disorder. Method: Participants were 587 children with ADHD combined type (alone, with oppositional-defiant disorder, and with anxiety or depression) and ADHD inattentive type (alone and with anxiety or depression). Results: Attention scores (FDI/WMI and GDS Vigilance and Distractibility) were similar and low for all groups. ADHD combined groups had greater impulsivity (GDS Delay) than ADHD inattentive groups, and ADHD inattentive groups had slower processing speed (PSI) than ADHD combined groups. Comorbidity did not affect test performance. Scores differentiated ADHD subtypes with 72% accuracy. Conclusion: Findings support the validity of DSM-IV ADHD combined and inattentive subtypes and the validity of the GDS, FDI/WMI, and PSI in assessing attention, impulsivity, and processing speed in children with ADHD. (J. of Att. Dis. 2009; 12(6) 540-550)
Detecting Interaction Effects in Moderated Multiple Regression With Continuous Variables Power and Sample Size Considerations
Authors: Shieh Gwowen
Published: July 2008

In view of the long-recognized difficulties in detecting interactions among continuous variables in moderated multiple regression analysis, this article aims to address the problem by providing feasible solutions to power calculation and sample size determination for significance test of moderating effects. The proposed approach incorporates the essential factors of strength of moderator effect, magnitude of error variation, and distributional property of predictor and moderator variables into a unified framework. Accordingly, careful consideration across different plausible and practical configurations of the prescribed factors is an important aspect of power and sample size computations in planning moderated multiple regression research. The performance of the suggested procedure and an alternative simplified method is illustrated with detailed numerical studies. The simulation results demonstrate that an acceptable degree of accuracy can be obtained using the recommended method in assessing moderated relationships.
Normative Thermal Comfort Assessment
Authors: Park Cheol-Soo , Augenbroe Godfried
Published: July 2008

This paper reports on the development of a thermal comfort toolkit designed for the normative assessment of the indoor thermal environment of office facilities. It is one component of a larger building performance toolkit developed for the US General Services Administration. The thermal comfort part includes a set of unambiguously defined performance indicators (PI) based on the notion of objectively quantifiable performance measures. The set of indicators is founded on existing knowledge in biophysics and physiology, and constitutes a normative tool to assess the performance of buildings. The calculation of PIs is fully operational and web based. In the paper, the theoretical derivation of the indicators is given and their relevance in design scenarios is discussed.
Field Measurement and Subjects' Votes Assessment on Thermal Comfort in High-rise Hostels in Malaysia
Authors: Dahlan N.D. , Jones P.J. , Alexander D.K. , Salleh E. , Dixon D.
Published: July 2008

The need to design for low energy consumption dwellings has induced Malaysian architects to design naturally ventilated high-rise hostels (HH), near the capital, Kuala Lumpur. Objective and subjective measurements for thermal comfort investigations were conducted in two high-rise university hostels located in Universiti Malaya, Petaling Jaya (HH1) and Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang (HH2) from May 12 to June 19 in 2007. Eighteen rooms located at first, fifth, and top floor of each HH were measured for different orientations. The measured rooms were naturally ventilated with ceiling fans. Thermal comfort variables were measured prior to the subjective measurement. A total of 208 student occupants responded to the questionnaire. Subjects with 6 months and over living experience in those HH were selected randomly. This study was aimed: (1) to assess the indoor microclimate of each naturally ventilated HH, (2) to identify student occupants' thermal sensation during rainy and clear day, and (3) to simulate the neutral operating temperature for rooms in naturally ventilated high-rise hostels. Findings revealed that room in HH1 which is located on high land and shaded has a more constant operating temperature distribution than rooms in HH2 that is located on lower land and un-shaded. Operating temperature ranges for HH1 and HH2 were 27—31°C and 26—41°C, respectively. Results suggested that there is also a possibility that thermal comfort is achievable in shaded naturally ventilated hostels with a window-to-wall ratio of 0.35 where the internal—external relative humidity is above 70% RH, especially in south-facing rooms.
Study on the Indoor Air Quality of Seoul Metropolitan Subway during the Rush Hour
Authors: Kwon Soon-Bark , Youngmin Cho  , Park Duckshin , Park Eun-Young
Published: July 2008

With increasing interest in indoor air quality (IAQ), the recommended standards for the IAQ of public transportation were established in 2003 in Hong Kong and in 2007 in Korea. According to the recommended standards on the IAQ of public transportation of both Hong Kong and Korea, the air quality in the passenger cabins of railway vehicles may be improved through the ventilation system using outside air. Also, it is reasonable to use the carbon dioxide (CO2) level as the index of improvement. The Korean guidelines on the air quality in cabins include the recommended standard for particulate matter <10 μm (PM10) as well as CO2. In this study, the levels of CO2 and PM10 were continuously measured in the subways operated in the Seoul metropolitan area and the number of passengers using subway vehicles was surveyed based on the lines in operation and each stopping station. In addition to CO2 and PM10 levels, the temperature and moisture (RH%) in the passenger cabins were also measured. The average CO2 and PM10 levels for each line were compared with the recommended levels of cabin air quality. The correlation analysis to the number of passengers proved that the CO2 level was linearly correlated with the number of passengers. The average CO2 level and PM10 level in the subway trains in the metropolitan area were found to be below that recommended in the air quality standards for cabins.
Performance Assessment of an Operating Theatre Design Using CFD Simulation and Tracer Gas Measurements
Authors: Loomans MGLC , van Houdt W. , Lemaire AD , Hensen JLM
Published: July 2008

This paper advocates application of the performance-based approach to arrive at improved, innovative and more functional buildings. It does so by describing the development of a performance assessment methodology for the assessment of the efficiency of a ventilation system in an operating theatre. This assessment is performed in the design and use phase to adhere to the performance-based approach definition. The developed methodology was tested in a real case study with an innovative down-flow plenum. The focus was on the low infection rate functional requirement. The results from the case study indicated that the assessment methodology functions and that the innovative down-flow systems, that was the topic of the case study, adhered to the requirements set. Some parts of the methodology, however, allow openings for further research. On the other hand, a similar assessment can be extended to other requirements, such as thermal comfort, hypothermia, etc.
Aortoduodenal Fistula and Streptococcal Myonecrosis
Authors: Abdelrazeq Ayman S. , Owais Anwar E. , Mukdad Firas , Aldoori Munther I.
Published: July 2008

Pyomyositis is a rare primary bacterial infection of the skeletal muscles. Pyomyonecrosis is the most severe manifestation of this disease and is associated with a potentially devastating outcome. Patients with peripheral vascular disease presenting with pyomyositis may be difficult to distinguish from those with critical ischemia or synthetic graft sepsis. This article reports on a patient with aortobifemoral bypass graft and severe vitamin B12 deficiency who developed pyomyonecrosis and aortoduodenal fistula. This article highlights the etiologic dilemma, diagnostic difficulties, and management challenges inherent in such cases. Pitfalls in our management of this patient are discussed.
Repair of the Inferior Vena Cava With Autogenous Peritoneo-Fascial Patch Graft Following Abdominal Trauma: A Case Report
Authors: Emmiler Mustafa , Kocogullari Cevdet Ugur , Yilmaz Sezgin , Cekirdekci Ahmet
Published: July 2008

Abdominal vascular injuries are among the most challenging and lethal injuries in traumatized patients. Inferior vena cava is the most frequently injured vein during the blunt or penetrating trauma. The primary repair, end to end anastomosis, endovascular stenting, or graft interposition with autogenous or synthetic materials should be considered in selected cases. However, in cases the synthetic graft was preferred, intestinal contaminations due to small or large bowel perforation accompanying the trauma have been cited as a limiting factor for the use of such grafts as in the current case. However, a previous history of lower leg variceal surgery prevents the use of great saphenous vein as a graft. So in the present case, the authors report a patient with inferior vena cava injury repaired with autogenous peritoneo-fascial graft. The authors have used APF graft in traumatic inferior vena cava injury for the first time.
A Case of Verrucous Carcinoma (Epithelioma Cuniculatum) of the Heel Mimicking Infected Epidermal Cyst and Gout
Authors: Arefi Mahbod , Philipone Elizabeth , Caprioli Russell , Haight John , Richardson Hugh , Sheng Chen
Published: July 2008

Verrucous carcinoma is a rare variant of well-differentiated squamous cell carcinoma. It usually occurs in the oral cavity, genital area, and sole. Verrucous carcinoma of the sole, also called epithelioma cuniculatum, often presents a diagnostic challenge both clinically and histopathologically. The authors report such a case that mimics infected epidermal cyst and gout clinically
Investigation on thermal stability of TiO2 films for application at high temperature
Authors: Yao J. K. , Huang H. L. , Xu C. , Ma J. Y. , He H. B. , Shao J. D. , Jin Y. X. , Zhao Y. A. , Fan Z. X. , Zhang F. , Wu Z. Y.
Published: July 2008

The thermal stability of electron beam deposited TiO2 monolayers and TiO2/SiO2 high reflectors (HR) during 300 to 1100°C annealing is studied. It is found that the optical loss of film increases with the increase in annealing temperature, due to the phase change, crystallisation and deoxidising of film. Scattering loss dominates the optical property degradation of film below 900°C, while the absorption is another factor at 1100°C. The increase in refractive index and decrease in physical thickness of TiO2 layer shift the spectra of HR above 900°C. The possible crack mechanism on the surface of HR during annealing is discussed. Guidance for application on high temperature stable optical coatings is given.
Microstructure and wear properties of laser clad Fe based amorphous composite coatings
Authors: Zhu Q. J. , Wang X. H. , Qu S. Y. , Zou Z. D.
Published: July 2008

A FeNiSiBV amorphous composite coating was developed by laser cladding of metallic powders on AISI 1020 low carbon steel substrate. The coatings were studied using X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The coating reveals different microstructures along the depth of the coating. The transition zone exhibits good metallurgical bonding between the substrate and the coating. The layer consists of amorphous phase in majority and nanocrystalline phase/crystalline phase in minority. Accompanied with the nanocrystalline phase, the amorphous phase is concentrated in the middle of the coating. The crystalline phase in the coating is identified as Fe2B. A gradient distribution of the microhardness ranges from 1208 HV0·2 to 891 HV0·2 in the coating along the depth. The coating shows higher microhardness and better wear property than the substrate.
Effects of sputtering power on mechanical properties of Cr films deposited by magnetron sputtering
Authors: Kim K. , Park M. , Lee W. , Kim H. W. , Lee J. G. , Lee C.
Published: July 2008

Chromium (Cr) films were deposited on plain carbon steel sheets by dc and rf magnetron sputtering as well as by electroplating. Effects of dc or rf sputtering power on the deposition rate and properties such as, hardness, adhesion strength, surface roughness and corrosion resistance of the Cr films were investigated. X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microcopy (SEM) analyses were performed to investigate the crystal structure, surface roughness, thickness of the Cr films. Salt fog tests were used to evaluate the corrosion resistance of the samples. The deposition rate, hardness and surface roughness of the Cr film deposited by either dc or rf sputtering increase with the increase in sputtering power but the adhesion strength is nearly independent of the sputtering power. The deposition rate, hardness and adhesion strength of the Cr film deposited by dc sputtering are higher than those of the Cr film deposited by rf sputtering, but rf sputtering offers smoother surface and higher corrosion resistance. The sputter deposited Cr film is harder and has a smoother surface than the electroplated one. The sputter deposited Cr film also has higher corrosion resistance than the electroplated one, which may be attributed to the smoother surface of the sputter deposited film.
Isothermal martensite: Austenite grain size and kinetics of ‘spread’
Authors: Guimarães J. R. C.
Published: July 2008

Martensite reaction is a heterogeneous transformation. Frequently, it starts in a few austenite grains and proceeds by nucleation of additional martensite units in the partially transformed grains as well as in untransformed ones, thus spreading the transformation throughout. It is shown that concepts developed to describe ‘spread’ in athermal martensite can be extended to the isothermal transformation. The kinetics of ‘spread’ is described by an autocatalytic equation and the number of initially available nucleation sites is calculated and compared with available results. The ‘spread’ of the transformation and the growth of plates are closed related, entailing a grain size effect.
Modelling and analysis of pitting corrosion resistance of stainless steel overlays deposited by flux cored arc welding process
Authors: Palani P. K. , Murugan N.
Published: July 2008

The present study investigates the effect of welding process parameters on the localised corrosion resistance of AISI 317L stainless steel overlays deposited onto the structural steel plate by flux cored arc welding process. Experiments were conducted adopting response surface methodology concept. The corrosion medium used was 3˙5% neutral NaCl solution (by weight). Potentiodynamic polarisation technique was used for conducting the corrosion tests. Regression equation was developed for modelling the effect of process parameters on the pitting potential. The results indicated that the pitting resistance increased with increasing welding current and speed. However, it started decreasing with further increase in those parameters. Sensitivity analysis indicated that the pitting corrosion resistance is more sensitive to changes in welding speed than the other two parameters.
Sickle red cells induce adhesion of lymphocytes and monocytes to endothelium
Authors: Zennadi Rahima , Chien Ai , Xu Ke , Batchvarova Milena , Telen Marilyn J.
Published: July 2008

Infusion of epinephrine-activated human sickle erythrocytes (SS RBCs) into nude mice promotes both SS RBC and murine leukocyte adhesion to vascular endothelium in vivo. We hypothesized that interaction of epinephrine-stimulated SS RBCs with leukocytes leads to activation of leukocytes, which then adhere to endothelial cells (ECs). In exploring the underlying molecular mechanisms, we have found that coincubation in vitro of epinephrine-treated SS RBCs with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) results in robust adhesion of PBMCs to ECs. Sham-treated SS RBCs had a similar but less pronounced effect, whereas neither sham- nor epinephrine-treated normal RBCs activated PBMC adhesion. PBMC activation was induced via at least 2 RBC adhesion receptors, LW and CD44. In response to SS RBCs, leukocyte CD44 and β2 integrins mediated PBMC adhesion to ECs, a process that involved endothelial E-selectin and fibronectin. SS RBCs activated adhesion of both PBMC populations, lymphocytes and monocytes. Thus, our findings reveal a novel mechanism that may contribute to the pathogenesis of vaso-occlusion in sickle cell disease, in which SS RBCs act via LW and CD44 to stimulate leukocyte adhesion to endothelium, and suggest that RBC LW and CD44 may serve as potential targets for antiadhesive therapy designed to prevent vaso-occlusion.
Impact of prior imatinib mesylate on the outcome of hematopoietic cell transplantation for chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lee Stephanie J. , Kukreja Manisha , Wang Tao , Giralt Sergio A. , Szer Jeffrey , Arora Mukta , Woolfrey Ann E. , Cervantes Francisco , Champlin Richard E. , Gale Robert Peter , Halter Joerg , Keating Armand , Marks David I. , McCarthy Philip L. , Olavarria Eduardo , Stadtmauer Edward A. , Abecasis Manuel , Gupta Vikas , Khoury H. Jean , George Biju , Hale Gregory A. , Liesveld Jane L. , Rizzieri David A. , Antin Joseph H. , Bolwell Brian J. , Carabasi Matthew H. , Copelan Edward , Ilhan Osman , Litzow Mark R. , Schouten Harold C. , Zander Axel R. , Horowitz Mary M. , Maziarz Richard T.
Published: July 2008

Imatinib mesylate (IM, Gleevec) has largely supplanted allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) as first line therapy for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Nevertheless, many people with CML eventually undergo HCT, raising the question of whether prior IM therapy impacts HCT success. Data from the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research on 409 subjects treated with IM before HCT (IM+) and 900 subjects who did not receive IM before HCT (IM−) were analyzed. Among patients in first chronic phase, IM therapy before HCT was associated with better survival but no statistically significant differences in treatment-related mortality, relapse, and leukemia-free survival. Better HLA-matched donors, use of bone marrow, and transplantation within one year of diagnosis were also associated with better survival. A matched-pairs analysis was performed and confirmed a higher survival rate among first chronic phase patients receiving IM. Among patients transplanted with advanced CML, use of IM before HCT was not associated with treatment-related mortality, relapse, leukemia-free survival, or survival. Acute graft-versus-host disease rates were similar between IM+ and IM− groups regardless of leukemia phase. These results should be reassuring to patients receiving IM before HCT.
BMP4 regulation of human megakaryocytic differentiation is involved in thrombopoietin signaling
Authors: Jeanpierre Sandrine , Nicolini Franck Emmanuel , Kaniewski Bastien , Dumontet Charles , Rimokh Ruth , Puisieux Alain , Maguer-Satta Véronique
Published: July 2008

Activin A, BMP2, and BMP4, 3 members of the transforming growth factor-β family, are involved in the regulation of hematopoiesis. Here, we explored the role of these molecules in human megakaryopoiesis using an in vitro serum-free assay. Our results highlight for the first time that, in the absence of thrombopoietin, BMP4 is able to induce CD34+ progenitor differentiation into megakaryocytes through all stages. Although we have previously shown that activin A and BMP2 are involved in erythropoietic commitment, these molecules have no effect on human megakaryopoietic engagement and differentiation. Using signaling pathway-specific inhibitors, we show that BMP4, like thrombopoietin, exerts its effects on human megakaryopoiesis through the JAK/STAT and mTor pathways. Inhibition of the BMP signaling pathway with blocking antibodies, natural soluble inhibitors (FLRG or follistatin), or soluble BMP receptors reveals that thrombopoietin uses the BMP4 pathway to induce megakaryopoiesis, whereas the inverse is not occurring. Finally, we show that thrombopoietin up-regulates the BMP4 autocrine loop in megakaryocytic progenitors by inducing their production of BMP4 and up-regulating BMP receptor expression. In summary, this work indicates that BMP4 plays an important role in the control of human megakaryopoiesis.
TINF2 mutations result in very short telomeres: analysis of a large cohort of patients with dyskeratosis congenita and related bone marrow failure syndromes
Authors: Walne Amanda J. , Vulliamy Tom , Beswick Richard , Kirwan Michael , Dokal Inderjeet
Published: July 2008

Dyskeratosis congenita (DC) is a multisystem bone marrow failure syndrome characterized by a triad of mucocutaneous abnormalities and a predisposition to cancer. The genetic basis of DC remains unknown in more than 60% of patients. Mutations have been identified in components of the telomerase complex (dyskerin, TERC, TERT, NOP10, and NHP2), and recently in one component of the shelterin complex TIN2 (gene TINF2). To establish the role of TINF2 mutations, we screened DNA from 175 uncharacterised patients with DC as well as 244 patients with other bone marrow failure disorders. Heterozygous coding mutations were found in 33 of 175 previously uncharacterized DC index patients and 3 of 244 other patients. A total of 21 of the mutations affected amino acid 282, changing arginine to histidine (n = 14) or cysteine (n = 7). A total of 32 of 33 patients with DC with TINF2 mutations have severe disease, with most developing aplastic anaemia by the age of 10 years. Telomere lengths in patients with TINF2 mutations were the shortest compared with other DC subtypes, but TERC levels were normal. In this large series, TINF2 mutations account for approximately 11% of all DC, but they do not play a significant role in patients with related disorders. This study emphasises the role of defective telomere maintenance on human disease.
Risk-adapted treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia with all-trans retinoic acid and anthracycline monochemotherapy: long-term outcome of the LPA 99 multicenter study by the PETHEMA Group
Authors: Sanz Miguel A. , Montesinos Pau , Vellenga Edo , Rayón Consuelo , de la Serna Javier , Parody Ricardo , Bergua Juan M. , León Angel , Negri Silvia , González Marcos , Rivas Concha , Esteve Jordi , Milone Gustavo , González José D. , Amutio Elena , Brunet Salut , García-Laraña J. , Colomer Dolors , Calasanz María J. , Chillón Carmen , Barragán Eva , Bolufer Pascual , Lowenberg Bob
Published: July 2008

A previous report of the Programa de Estudio y Tratamiento de las Hemopatías Malignas (PETHEMA) Group showed that a risk-adapted strategy combining all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and anthracycline monochemotherapy for induction and consolidation in newly diagnosed acute promyelocytic leukemia results in an improved outcome. Here we analyze treatment outcome of an enlarged series of patients who have been followed up for a median of 65 months. From November 1999 through July 2005 (LPA99 trial), 560 patients received induction therapy with ATRA plus idarubicin. Patients achieving complete remission received 3 courses of consolidation followed by maintenance with ATRA and low-dose chemotherapy. The 5-year cumulative incidence of relapse and disease-free survival were 11% and 84%, respectively. These results compare favorably with those obtained in the previous LPA96 study (P = .019 and P = .04, respectively). This updated analysis confirms the high antileukemic efficacy, low toxicity, and high degree of compliance of a risk-adapted strategy combining ATRA and anthracycline monochemotherapy for consolidation therapy.
A machine learning approach to explore the spectra intensity pattern of peptides using tandem mass spectrometry data
Authors: Zhou Cong , Bowler Lucas D , Feng Jianfeng
Published: July 2008

Background

A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in gas-phase fragmentation of peptides is essential for the development of more reliable algorithms for high-throughput protein identification using mass spectrometry (MS). Current methodologies depend predominantly on the use of derived m/z values of fragment ions, and, the knowledge provided by the intensity information present in MS/MS spectra has not been fully exploited. Indeed spectrum intensity information is very rarely utilized in the algorithms currently in use for high-throughput protein identification.

Results

In this work, a Bayesian neural network approach is employed to analyze ion intensity information present in 13878 different MS/MS spectra. The influence of a library of 35 features on peptide fragmentation is examined under different proton mobility conditions. Useful rules involved in peptide fragmentation are found and subsets of features which have significant influence on fragmentation pathway of peptides are characterised. An intensity model is built based on the selected features and the model can make an accurate prediction of the intensity patterns for given MS/MS spectra. The predictions include not only the mean values of spectra intensity but also the variances that can be used to tolerate noises and system biases within experimental MS/MS spectra.

Conclusion

The intensity patterns of fragmentation spectra are informative and can be used to analyze the influence of various characteristics of fragmented peptides on their fragmentation pathway. The features with significant influence can be used in turn to predict spectra intensities. Such information can help develop more reliable algorithms for peptide and protein identification.
Selective inhibition of yeast regulons by daunorubicin: A transcriptome-wide analysis
Authors: Rojas Marta , Casado Marta , Portugal José , Piña Benjamin
Published: July 2008

Background

The antitumor drug daunorubicin exerts some of its cytotoxic effects by binding to DNA and inhibiting the transcription of different genes. We analysed this effectin vivoat the transcriptome level using the budding yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeas a model and sublethal (IC40) concentrations of the drug to minimise general toxic effects.

Results

Daunorubicin affected a minor proportion (14%) of the yeast transcriptome, increasing the expression of 195 genes and reducing expression of 280 genes. Daunorubicin down-regulated genes included essentially all genes involved in the glycolytic pathway, the tricarboxylic acid cycle and alcohol metabolism, whereas transcription of ribosomal protein genes was not affected or even slightly increased. This pattern is consistent with a specific inhibition of glucose usage in treated cells, with only minor effects on proliferation or other basic cell functions. Analysis of promoters of down-regulated genes showed that they belong to a limited number of transcriptional regulatory units (regulons). Consistently, data mining showed that daunorubicin-induced changes in expression patterns were similar to those observed in yeast strains deleted for some transcription factors functionally related to the glycolysis and/or the cAMP regulatory pathway, which appeared to be particularly sensitive to daunorubicin.

Conclusion

The effects of daunorubicin treatment on the yeast transcriptome are consistent with a model in which this drug impairs binding of different transcription factors by competing for their DNA binding sequences, therefore limiting their effectiveness and affecting the corresponding regulatory networks. This proposed mechanism might have broad therapeutic implications against cancer cells growing under hypoxic conditions.
Early indicators of exposure to biological threat agents using host gene profiles in peripheral blood mononuclear cells
Authors: Das Rina , Hammamieh Rasha , Neill Roger , Ludwig George V , Eker Steven , Lincoln Patrick , Ramamoorthy Preveen , Dhokalia Apsara , Mani Sachin , Mendis Chanaka , Cummings Christiano , Kearney Brian , Royaee Atabak , Huang Xiao-Zhe , Paranavitana Chrysanthi , Smith Leonard , Peel Sheila , Kanesa-Thasan Niranjan , Hoover David , Lindler Luther E , Yang David , Henchal Erik , Jett Marti
Published: July 2008

Background

Effective prophylaxis and treatment for infections caused by biological threat agents (BTA) rely upon early diagnosis and rapid initiation of therapy. Most methods for identifying pathogens in body fluids and tissues require that the pathogen proliferate to detectable and dangerous levels, thereby delaying diagnosis and treatment, especially during the prelatent stages when symptoms for most BTA are indistinguishable flu-like signs.

Methods

To detect exposures to the various pathogens more rapidly, especially during these early stages, we evaluated a suite of host responses to biological threat agents using global gene expression profiling on complementary DNA arrays.

Results

We found that certain gene expression patterns were unique to each pathogen and that other gene changes occurred in response to multiple agents, perhaps relating to the eventual course of illness. Nonhuman primates were exposed to some pathogens and the in vitro and in vivo findings were compared. We found major gene expression changes at the earliest times tested post exposure to aerosolized B. anthracis spores and 30 min post exposure to a bacterial toxin.

Conclusion

Host gene expression patterns have the potential to serve as diagnostic markers or predict the course of impending illness and may lead to new stage-appropriate therapeutic strategies to ameliorate the devastating effects of exposure to biothreat agents.
R497K polymorphism in epidermal growth factor receptor gene is associated with the risk of acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Gao Lin-Bo , Zhou Bin , Zhang Lin , Wei Ye-Sheng , Wang Yan-Yun , Liang Wei-Bo , Lv Mei-Li , Pan Xin-Min , Chen Yu-Cheng , Rao Li
Published: July 2008

Background

Previous studies suggested that genetic polymorphisms in the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene had been implicated in the susceptibility to some tumors and inflammatory diseases. EGFR has been recently implicated in vascular pathophysiological processes associated with excessive remodeling and atherosclerosis. Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a clinical manifestation of preceding atherosclerosis. Our purpose was to investigate the association of the EGFR polymorphism with the risk of ACS. In this context, we analyzed the HER-1 R497K and EGFR intron 1 (CA)nrepeat polymorphisms in 191 patients with ACS and 210 age- and sex-matched controls in a Chinese population, using a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) strategy and direct sequencing.

Results

There were significant differences in the genotype and allele distribution of R497K polymorphism of the EGFR gene between cases and controls. TheLysallele had a significantly increased risk of ACS compared with theArgallele (adjusted OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.12–1.98, adjustedP= 0.006). However, no significant relationship between the number of (CA)nrepeats of EGFR intron 1 (both alleles < 20 or any allele ≥ 20) and the risk of ACS was observed (adjusted OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.58–1.64, adjustedP= 0.911). Considering these two polymorphisms together, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups.

Conclusion

R497K polymorphism of the EGFR gene is significantly associated with the risk of ACS. Our data suggests that R497K polymorphism may be used as a genetic susceptibility marker of the ACS.
Borderline gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Ju Hong , Rumbold Alice R , Willson Kristyn J , Crowther Caroline A
Published: July 2008

Background

The impact of borderline gestational diabetes mellitus (BGDM), defined as a positive oral glucose challenge test (OGCT) and normal oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), on maternal and infant health is unclear. We assessed maternal and infant health outcomes in women with BGDM and compared these to women who had a normal OGCT screen for gestational diabetes.

Methods

We compared demographic, obstetric and neonatal outcomes between women participating in the Australian Collaborative Trial of Supplements with antioxidants Vitamin C and Vitamin E to pregnant women for the prevention of pre-eclampsia (ACTS) who had BGDM and who screened negative on OGCT.

Results

Women who had BGDM were older (mean difference 1.3 years, [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.3, 2.2], p = 0.01) and more likely to be obese (27.1% vs 14.1%, relative risk (RR) 1.92, [95% CI 1.41, 2.62], p < 0.0001) than women who screened negative on OGCT. The risk of adverse maternal outcome overall was higher (12.9% vs 8.1%, RR 1.59, [95% CI 1.00, 2.52], p = 0.05) in women with BGDM compared with women with a normal OGCT. Women with BGDM were more likely to develop pregnancy induced hypertension (17.9% vs 11.8%, RR 1.51, [95% CI 1.03, 2.20], p = 0.03), have a caesarean for fetal distress (17.1% vs 10.5%, RR 1.63, [95% CI 1.10, 2.41], p = 0.01), and require a longer postnatal hospital stay (mean difference 0.4 day, [95% CI 0.1, 0.7], p = 0.01) than those with a normal glucose tolerance.

Infants born to BGDM mothers were more likely to be born preterm (10.7% vs 6.4%, RR 1.68, [95% CI 1.00, 2.80], p = 0.05), have macrosomia (birthweight ≥4.5 kg) (4.3% vs 1.7%, RR 2.53, [95% CI 1.06, 6.03], p = 0.04), be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (6.5% vs 3.0%, RR 2.18, [95% CI 1.09, 4.36], p = 0.03) or the neonatal nursery (40.3% vs 28.4%, RR 1.42, [95% CI 1.14, 1.76], p = 0.002), and have a longer hospital stay (p = 0.001). More infants in the BGDM group had Sarnat stage 2 or 3 neonatal encephalopathy (12.9% vs 7.8%, RR 1.65, [95% CI 1.04, 2.63], p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Women with BGDM and their infants had an increased risk of adverse health outcomes compared with women with a negative OGCT. Intervention strategies to reduce the risks for these women and their infants need evaluation.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN00416244
Chronic disease prevalence and associations in a cohort of Australian men: The Florey Adelaide Male Ageing Study (FAMAS)
Authors: Martin Sean A , Haren Matthew T , Taylor Anne W , Middleton Sue M , Wittert Gary A ,   Members of the Florey Adelaide Male Ageing Study (FAMAS)
Published: July 2008

Background

An increasing proportion of Australia's chronic disease burden is carried by the ageing male. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of asthma, cancer, diabetes, angina and musculoskeletal conditions and their relationship to behavioural and socio-demographic factors in a cohort of Australian men.

Methods

Self-reports of disease status were obtained from baseline clinic visits (August 2002 – July 2003 & July 2004 – May 2005) from 1195 randomly selected men, aged 35–80 years and living in the north-west regions of Adelaide. Initially, relative risks were assessed by regression against selected variables for each outcome. Where age-independent associations were observed with the relevant chronic disease, independent variables were fitted to customized multiadjusted models.

Results

The prevalence of all conditions was moderately higher in comparison to national data for age-matched men. In particular, there was an unusually high rate of men with cancer. Multiadjusted analyses revealed age as a predictor of chronic conditions (type 2 diabetes mellitus, angina, cancer & osteoarthritis). A number of socio-demographic factors, independent of age, were associated with chronic disease, including: low income status (diabetes), separation/divorce (asthma), unemployment (cancer), high waist circumference (diabetes), elevated cholesterol (angina) and a family history of obesity (angina).

Conclusion

Socio-demographic factors interact to determine disease status in this broadly representative group of Australian men. In addition to obesity and a positive personal and family history of disease, men who are socially disadvantaged (low income, unemployed, separated) should be specifically targeted by public health initiatives.
Voluntary HIV counselling and testing among men in rural western Uganda: Implications for HIV prevention
Authors: Bwambale Francis M , Ssali Sarah N , Byaruhanga Simon , Kalyango Joan N , Karamagi Charles AS
Published: July 2008

Background

Voluntary HIV counselling and testing (VCT) is one of the key strategies in the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS in Uganda. However, the utilization of VCT services particularly among men is low in Kasese district. We therefore conducted a study to determine the prevalence and factors associated with VCT use among men in Bukonzo West health sub-district, Kasese district.

Methods

A population-based cross-sectional study employing both quantitative and qualitative techniques of data collection was conducted between January and April 2005. Using cluster sampling, 780 men aged 18 years and above, residing in Bukonzo West health sub-district, were sampled from 38 randomly selected clusters. Data was collected on VCT use and independent variables. Focus group discussions (4) and key informant interviews (10) were also conducted. Binary logistic regression was performed to determine the predictors of VCT use among men.

Results

Overall VCT use among men was 23.3% (95% CI 17.2–29.4). Forty six percent (95% CI 40.8–51.2) had pre-test counselling and 25.9% (95%CI 19.9–31.9) had HIV testing. Of those who tested, 96% returned for post-test counselling and received HIV results. VCT use was higher among men aged 35 years and below (OR = 2.69, 95%CI 1.77–4.07), the non-subsistence farmers (OR = 2.37, 95%CI 2.37), the couple testing (OR = 2.37, 95%CI 1.02–8.83) and men with intention to disclose HIV test results to sexual partners (OR = 1.64, 95%CI 1.04–2.60). The major barriers to VCT use among men were poor utilization of VCT services due to poor access, stigma and confidentiality of services.

Conclusion

VCT use among men in Bukonzo West, Kasese district was low. In order to increase VCT use among men, the VCT programme needs to address HIV stigma and improve access and confidentiality of VCT services. Among the more promising interventions are the use of routine counselling and testing for HIV of patients seeking health care in health units, home based VCT programmes, and mainstreaming of HIV counselling and testing services in community development programmes.
Comparing patient characteristics and treatment processes in patients receiving physical therapy in the United States, Israel and the Netherlands: Cross sectional analyses of data from three clinical databases
Authors: Swinkels Ilse CS , Hart Dennis L , Deutscher Daniel , van den Bosch Wil JH , Dekker Joost , de Bakker Dinny H , van den Ende Cornelia HM
Published: July 2008

Background

Many assume that outcomes from physical therapy research in one country can be generalized to other countries. However, no well designed studies comparing outcomes among countries have been conducted. In this exploratory study, our goal was to compare patient demographics and treatment processes in outpatient physical therapy practice in the United States, Israel and the Netherlands.

Methods

Cross-sectional data from three different clinical databases were examined. Data were selected for patients aged 18 years and older and started an episode of outpatient therapy between January 1st 2005 and December 31st 2005. Results are based on data from approximately 63,000 patients from the United States, 100,000 from Israel and 12,000 from the Netherlands.

Results

Age, gender and the body part treated were similar in the three countries. Differences existed in episode duration of the health problem, with more patients with chronic complaints treated in the United States and Israel compared to the Netherlands. In the United States and Israel, physical agents and mechanical modalities were applied more often than in the Netherlands. The mean number of visits per treatment episode, adjusted for age, gender, and episode duration, varied from 8 in Israel to 11 in the United States and the Netherlands.

Conclusion

The current study showed that clinical databases can be used for comparing patient demographic characteristics and for identifying similarities and differences among countries in physical therapy practice. However, terminology used to describe treatment processes and classify patients was different among databases. More standardisation is required to enable more detailed comparisons. Nevertheless the differences found in number of treatment visits per episode imply that one has to be careful to generalize outcomes from physical therapy research from one country to another.
Giant gluteal lipoma-like liposarcoma: a case report
Authors: Sultan Maitham , Burezq Hisham , Bang Rameshwar L , El-Kabany Moustafa , Eskaf Waddah
Published: July 2008

Background

Liposarcoma is the second most common soft tissue sarcoma in adults with a peak incidence between the 4th and 6th decade of life and slight preponderance to the male gender. It originates from multipotential primitive mesenchymal cells, rather than mature adipose tissue.

Case presentation

An unusual case of a rapidly growing giant lipoma-like liposarcoma of the left gluteal and perineal areas in a young male was presented. The patient was managed by wide local excision of the lesion and coverage with split thickness skin graft. The key issues surrounding the treatment of lipoma-like liposarcoma and literature review is discussed.

Conclusion

For such unusual case of this particular rapidly growing tumor, a longer follow-up is needed to evaluate the outcome in these cases.
A predominance of R5-like HIV genotypes in vaginal secretions is associated with elevated plasma HIV-1 RNA levels and the absence of anti-retroviral therapy
Authors: Randolph Tara C , Kissinger Patricia J , Clark Rebecca A , Lacour Nedra , Amedee Angela M
Published: July 2008

HIV expressed in genital secretions provides the inoculum from which transmitting variants are selected, both in sexual transmission and mother-to-infant transmission during partuition. Characterization of HIV levels and genotypes found in vaginal secretions and the impact of anti-retroviral therapy (ART) on this virus can provide valuable insight for the prevention of HIV transmission. Vaginal HIV was evaluated in a cohort of 43 women attending a New Orleans HIV outpatient clinic. Predominant vaginal genotypes were characterized as R5- or X4-like by heteroduplex tracking analyses of the envelope V3 region. Most women (67.4%) shed R5-like genotypes in vaginal secretions which was associated with elevated plasma HIV levels (≥ 10,000 copies HIV-RNA/mL) and absence of ART. Because R5-like genotypes are more frequently associated with transmission, these observations suggest that the majority of women shedding HIV in genital secretions present a transmission risk. The levels of vaginal virus were similar between both groups, but shedding of X4-like genotypes was associated with lower plasma viral loads and the use of ART, suggesting that ART use may impact the genotypes of virus found in the female genital compartment.
The buccal minor salivary glands as starting point for a metastasizing adenocarcinoma – report of a case
Authors: Ettl Tobias , Kleinheinz Johannes , Mehrotra Ravi , Schwarz Stephan , Reichert Torsten Eugen , Driemel Oliver
Published: July 2008

Background

With the 2005 WHO classification of salivary gland tumours and its increasingly recognized diagnostic entities, the frequency of adenocarcinoma (NOS) has decreased significantly.

Case presentation

This paper describes a fast growing adenocarcinoma (NOS), originating from the minor salivary glands of the left buccal mucosa with a rapid onset of multiple local and distant metastases, especially in the lung. A lung primary was unlikely as the tumour was characterized by positivity for cytokeratin 20 and negativity for the thyroid transcription factor-1 protein (TTF-1) in immunohistochemistry.

Conclusion

A rare case of an adenocarcinoma (NOS) of the minor salivary glands with a rapid development and an unfavourable clinical course is reported. It shows that additional immunohistochemical analysis can decisively contribute to determine the site of the primary tumour in cases with unknown primary.