bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer of the body of the uterus: trends in mortality and incidence in England, 1985–2008
Authors: Duncan ME , Seagroatt V , Goldacre MJ
Published: November 2011

Please cite this paper as: Duncan M, Seagroatt V, Goldacre M. Cancer of the body of the uterus: trends in mortality and incidence in England, 1985–2008. BJOG 2011; 10.1111/j.1471‐0528.2011.03201.x.

Objective  To report on trends in mortality and incidence for uterine cancer in England, 1985–2008.

Design  Database analysis.

Setting  England.

Population  Data sets of English national mortality and cancer registration statistics.

Methods  Analysis of data from death certificates with a mention of malignant neoplasm of corpus uteri or malignant neoplasm of uterus without specification of part, and analysis of incidence data from cancer registries in England.

Main outcome measures  Age‐adjusted and age‐specific trends in rates.

Results  Mortality rates in the UK declined from 41.3 per million women in 1985 until about 1999 (30.0 per million), and then increased to 35.9 per million in 2008. Incidence rates for those aged 55 years and over showed little or no change from 1985 to the early 1990s, but then increased: for example, for women aged 60–64 years, the rates per million women in 1985, 1993, 2001 and 2008 were, respectively, 448, 461, 647 and 728. Rates for younger women showed a decline, followed by an increase: for example, for women aged 50–54 years the corresponding rates were 290, 254, 267 and 294. Over the period 2001–2008, the age‐adjusted average annual percentage increase was 2.55% per annum (95% CI 2.13–2.98%). The increase in incidence rates, observed from the 1990s, preceded the increase in mortality by about 10 years.

Conclusions  After many years of declining rates, uterine cancer has become more common in the first decade of this century. One possible contributor to this increase may be an association with the increase in body mass index in women, but other causes are possible and are discussed.
Microconchid tubeworms across the upper Frasnian – lower Famennian interval in the Central Devonian Field, Russia
Authors: ZATOŃ MICHAŁ , KRAWCZYŃSKI WOJCIECH
Published: November 2011

Abstract: Microconchid tubeworms (Tentaculita) encrusting brachiopod shells have been investigated from the upper Frasnian – lower Famennian (Upper Devonian) deposits of the Central Devonian Field, Russia. The condition of microconchids and associated encrusting taxa is reported for the first time from the early Famennian recovery interval (crepidaChron) following the Frasnian–Famennian mass extinction. Two species, one new (Palaeoconchus variabilissp. nov.) and the second one in open nomenclature (Palaeoconchussp.), are described. Compared to lower Famennian specimens, they seem to be preferentially grouped on the anterior parts of the brachiopod host shells, which are interpreted as the most suitable sites away from the sea‐bottom and sediment. During the late Frasnian (LaterhenanaChron), microconchids, outnumbered by cornulitids and as abundant as foraminifers, were also associated with trepostome bryozoans, tabulates, rugose corals and various problematic encrusters. During the early Famennian recovery interval encompassing thecrepidaChron, microconchids greatly outnumbered all associated encrusters, including the previously dominant cornulitids, while foraminifers, tabulates and rugose corals vanished. Early Famennian microconchids, represented by the single, albeit very abundant, speciesPalaeoconchus variabilissp. nov., were opportunists that rapidly colonised the environment during the ongoing transgression following the regression‐driven biotic crisis in the area of the Central Devonian Field. In comparison to their late Frasnian predecessors and even other Middle Devonian specimens, no size reduction (the so‐called Lilliput effect) of early Famennian microconchid tubes was observed. It is probable that microconchids either rapidly attained their ‘normal’ sizes or they did not suffer any dwarfism following the Frasnian–Famennian event.
“I'm Not Your Typical ‘Homework Stresses Me Out’ Kind of Girl”: Psychological Anthropology in Research on College Student Usage of Psychiatric Medications and Mental Health Services
Authors: Anderson‐Fye Eileen P. , Floersch Jerry
Published: November 2011

Research has established that a large minority of college students today are taking psychiatric medications and that college mental health services are overwhelmed by this relatively recent trend. Little is known about the subjective experience of these college students in regard to their medications and utilizations of services as they transition from home to a peer‐based environment during a key developmental moment in the transition to adulthood. In this article we argue that theory and methods from psychological anthropology are ripe to guide data collection in this area. We provide data from a longitudinal mixed‐methods pilot study with residential college students to argue that policy and practice regarding college mental health and psychiatric medication can benefit substantially from insights gained through psychological anthropology. In particular, college administrators, counseling and health centers, and their professional organizations can benefit from research examining student experience and meaning making in particular institutional and community settings.
Inside‐Out and Outside‐In? Global Development Theory, Policy, and Youth
Authors: Worthman Carol M.
Published: November 2011

Humanity is young: In 2006, over a third (2.2 billion) were under age 18 and almost half were under age 25. In addition, nearly the majority of young people ages 15–24 lives on less than $2 per day, 15 percent are undernourished, and 14.4 percent are unemployed. Although 85 percent of young people live in developing countries, only a fraction of adolescent development and mental health research is focused there. Efforts to shift the emphasis of such research also must engage with the prevailing views in development theory and policy that link human development with socioeconomic development in a “dual development model.” A critical cultural analysis of this model reveals both the bases and limitations of its power, and identifies an implicit cultural model of the life course within it. The model mandates society‐to‐individual (outside‐in) investments in health and education that are expected to return reciprocal gains in lifetime productivity that benefit society as a whole (inside‐out). The current burden and advantage of this equation are assessed as they bear on young people across the globe. A case is made for lifecourse cultural models as a potent framework for mediating among realities, perceptions, and behaviors at the level of youth, parents, and policies under conditions of rapid culture change.
Adolescence Matters: Practice‐ and Policy‐Relevant Research and Engagement in Psychological Anthropology
Authors: Korbin Jill E. , Anderson‐Fye Eileen P.
Published: November 2011

The articles in this special issue, and the practice and policy commentaries that accompany them, highlight distinctive contributions of psychological anthropology to understanding adolescence, and extend these understandings to the collaborative framing of practice and policy concerns. In consideration of pressing matters for adolescents that include mental health, poverty, sexual orientation, and global perspectives on well‐being, the role of psychological anthropology in linking research, practice and policy must be multifaceted and collaborative in bringing together content, methods, and approaches that facilitate effective communication and engagement within and beyond the academy.
Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in tumour suppressor genes in benign and malignant mixed odontogenic tumours
Authors: Galvão Clarice F. , Gomes Carolina C. , Diniz Marina G. , Vargas Pablo A. , de Paula Alfredo M. B. , Mosqueda‐Taylor Adalberto , Loyola Adriano M. , Gomez Ricardo S.
Published: November 2011

J Oral Pathol Med (2012) 41: 389–393

Although molecular alterations are reported in different types of odontogenic tumours, their pathogenesis remains to be established. Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) studies allow the identification of minimal regions of deletions of known or putative tumour suppressor genes, the losses of which may promote neoplastic growth. The purpose of this study was to investigate LOH in a set of odontogenic mixed tumours. Tumour suppressor gene loci on 3p, 9p, 11p, 11q and 17p chromosomes were analysed in five samples of ameloblastic fibroma (AF), three samples of ameloblastic fibro‐odontoma (AFO) and three samples of ameloblastic fibrosarcoma (AFS). The most frequently lost genetic loci were p53 (17p13, 62%) and CHRNB1 (17p13, 55%). LOH at the chromosome regions 3p24.3, 9p22 and 9p22‐p21 was identified only in AFS. No sample showed LOH at the chromosomal loci 3p21.2 and 11q13.4. For the region 9p22–p13, LOH occurred in one sample of AFO. The fractional allelic loss (FAL) was calculated for each sample. The mean FAL of the benign lesions (i.e. AF and AFO) was 22%, whereas the mean FAL of the malignant lesions (i.e. AFS) was 74.6%. In conclusion, our results show a higher FAL in AFS compared to its benign counterparts and reveal a different pattern of LOH of tumour suppressor genes in AFS, which may regulate changes in tumour behaviour.
Vitamin D serum level changes in psoriatic patients treated with narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy are related to the season of the irradiation
Authors: Lesiak Aleksandra , Narbutt Joanna , Pawlaczyk Mariola , Sysa‐Jedrzejowska Anna , Krzyścin Janusz
Published: November 2011

Background

Vitamin D is produced in the human skin by short wavelength (290–315 nm) ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Purpose

The aim of the study was to investigate how outdoor conditions may influence the serum levels of 25(OH) vitamin D in psoriasis patients under narrowband ultraviolet B (UVB) phototherapy.

Methods

The winter and summer groups of patients received almost the same narrowband UV (nUVB) doses during whole‐body phototherapy. The 25(OH)D serum concentration was measured before and after two series of 10 exposures. The cabinet doses were compared with potentially available cumulative solar doses. The solar doses (unweighted UVB and vitamin D effective dose) and duration of solar intensity sufficient to produce vitamin D were calculated using a model based on local atmospheric data.

Results

After an initial 10 nUVB treatments, 25(OH)D serum concentration increased by 68% for winter patients in relation to the level before therapy, whereas a 20% increase was found for the summer patients. The next 10 treatments caused a much lower increase in 25(OH)D concentration: 5% and 3.5% for the winter and summer patients, respectively. No statistically significant relationship was observed between post‐therapy 25(OH)D serum concentration and solar radiation variability.

Conclusions

The different baseline values of 25(OH)D serum levels in winter and summer patients result from seasonal variability in solar irradiance. Thus, outdoor solar radiation affects the patients over a much longer period, and artificial UV light is the main factor responsible for increase in 25(OH)D serum level over a 30‐day period of cabinet therapy.
The impact of ultraviolet therapy on stratum corneum ceramides and barrier function
Authors: Jungersted Jakob Mutanu , Høgh Julie K. , Hellgren Lars I. , Jemec Gregor B. E. , Agner Tove
Published: November 2011

The ceramide profile as well as the barrier function is known to be deteriorated in atopic eczema and psoriasis, and ultraviolet (UV) light is known to improve the barrier function. The impact of UV light on ceramides, however, is not clarified. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of UV therapy in dermatological patients on ceramides and skin barrier function. We found that UV light treatment does not change the ratio of important stratum corneum lipids, but we confirm earlier findings of decreased susceptibility to irritants after UV‐ therapy.
Ultraviolet exposure for different outdoor sports in Valencia, Spain
Authors: Serrano María‐Antonia , Cañada Javier , Moreno Juan Carlos
Published: November 2011

Background

The purpose of this study is to quantify ultraviolet (UV) exposure of several groups of amateur athletes in their training or recreational schedules.

Methods

The athletes were monitored using dosimeters (VioSpor).The study took place in Valencia, Spain, from May to July 2010, and involved a group of 10 mountaineers, four tennis players and five runners.

Results

The mean daily personal UV exposure for mountaineers was 9.48 ± 3.23 standard erythema dose (SED). The tennis players received a mean of 10.65 ± 1.57 SED for every 2 days of training, and the runners received a mean of 7.62 ± 4.28 SED for every 5 days of training.

Conclusion

Mountaineers received a higher dose of UV exposure and have a higher exposure ratio than the tennis players, probably because they spent more time outdoors. However, the runners received a low dose of UV exposure, perhaps because their training takes place in the evening. Mean daily UV exposure of the mountaineers and tennis players exceeded 5 SED, which means that, in the case of non‐sun‐adapted skin type III and the non‐use of sun protection, erythema may be induced in these subjects. Accordingly, it is necessary to encourage the use of high protection sunscreens and protective clothing, and to avoid UV exposure in the hottest part of the day.
UVA‐activated synthesis of metalloproteinases 1, 3 and 9 is prevented by a broad‐spectrum sunscreen
Authors: Jean Christine , Bogdanowicz Patrick , Haure Marie‐José , Castex‐Rizzi Nathalie , Fournié Jean‐Jacques , Laurent Guy
Published: November 2011

Background

Specific sunscreens against ultraviolet (UV) A and B radiations are essential to prevent matrix degradation and the activation of intracellular signaling pathways involved in photoaging and photocarcinogenesis. Matrix degradation results from UVA‐induced production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) and activation of intracellular pathways in fibroblasts and keratinocytes. In particular, in keratinocytes, UVA radiation induces β‐catenin nuclear translocation and stimulates MMP gene transcription. Our study was aimed at assessing the efficacy of a specific broad‐spectrum sunscreen in preventing β‐catenin translocation and MMPs enhanced expression in cultured keratinocytes after UVA irradiation.

Methods

Sunscreen or the vehicle was spread on quartz sheet. Irradiation of HaCaT cells with 6 J/cm2 UVA was performed through the sheet, and cells were collected for β‐catenin immunostaining then visualization by confocal microscopy, and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis of MMP‐1, ‐3 and ‐9 gene expression.

Results

As shown by immunostaining and confocal microscopy, the sunscreen abrogated UVA‐induced beta‐catenin translocation to the nucleus, in comparison with control groups. MMP‐1, ‐3 and ‐9 mRNA expression was enhanced by 7, 7 and 4 folds (P < 0.0001, P < 0.001 and P < 0.01, respectively) in unprotected UVA‐irradiated cells compared to the non‐irradiated control. Sunscreen protection of the cells significantly reduced UVA‐induced expression of MMP‐1, ‐3 and ‐9 by 83% (P < 0.01), 80% (P < 0.01) and 65% (P < 0.05), respectively.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the efficacy of this broad‐spectrum sunscreen in preventing UVA‐induced effects on the markers of photoaging and photocarcinogenesis in vitro. It was able to protect HaCaT keratinocytes from UVA‐induced β‐catenin translocation to the nucleus and MMPs expression.
The distribution of galaxy morphological types and the morphology–mass relation in different environments at low redshift
Authors: Calvi Rosa , Poggianti Bianca M. , Fasano Giovanni , Vulcani Benedetta
Published: November 2011

We use ∼2000 galaxies from PM2GC (Calvi, Poggianti & Vulcani 2011a) belonging to different environments to show how the fractions of different galaxy morphological types vary with global environment and as function of galaxy stellar mass at low redshift. Considering mass-limited galaxy samples with log10M★/M⊙ ≥ 10.25, we find a smooth increase/decline in the fraction of Es–S0s/late-type galaxies going from single galaxies, to binaries, to groups. Considering all environments, the fractional variation is more conspicuous for S0s and late types than for ellipticals solely due to a sharp enhancement/dearth of S0s/late types in clusters compared to other environments. The morphological distribution of galaxies in the mass range 10.25 < log10M★/M⊙ < 11 is rather independent of both galaxy stellar mass and global environment, except in clusters. The morphologies of galaxies more massive than log10M★/M⊙ = 11 are instead a function of both galaxy mass and global environment. The morphology–mass relation therefore changes with global environment, showing that galaxy stellar mass cannot be the only parameter driving the morphological distribution of galaxies. The morphology–mass relations for S0 and late-type galaxies in clusters are peculiar compared to other environments, and this strongly suggests that cluster-specific effects act on these two types of galaxies, and that a significant number of S0s in clusters has a different origin with respect to S0s in other environments.
Return of Research Results: General Principles and International Perspectives
Authors: Lévesque Emmanuelle , Joly Yann , Simard Jacques
Published: November 2011

Five years ago, an article co-written by some of us (Joly and Simard) presented an emerging trend to disclose some individual genetic results to research participants within the international research community. At the time, ethical norms and scholarly publications on the return of results often did not distinguish between the return of research results in general and the return of unexpected results (also called incidental findings). Both technologies and research practices have evolved significantly. Today whole genome and exome sequencing are increasingly affordable and frequently used in genetic research. Because these techniques produce a vast amount of interpretable and non-interpretable data (i.e., data of unproven significance) about an individual, the issue of how to manage information generated by such technologies needs to be considered. However, the development of international ethical guidelines has not kept up with the rapid pace of technological progress. Indeed developments in genomic biobanking also challenge the duty to disclose research results.
HAEMODIALYSIS NURSES KNOWLEDGE ABOUT METHICILLIN‐RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS
Authors: Lindberg Maria , Lindberg Magnus
Published: November 2011

Healthcare workers may lack knowledge about antibiotic‐resistant bacteria and thereby increase the spread of such organisms. The aim of the present study was to describe the relationship between self‐rated knowledge and actual knowledge about methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) among 326 Swedish haemodialysis nurses. Data were collected through a postal questionnaire. The findings suggest that ongoing education about MRSA should be provided to haemodialysis nurses, but also that standardised evaluation of adequate knowledge, skills and competencies’ regarding safe practices is warranted. Future research should focus on effective mechanisms to ensure that haemodialysis nurses provide safe MRSA care.
IDENTIFICATION OF THE NEEDS OF HAEMODIALYSIS PATIENTS USING THE CONCEPT OF MASLOW'S HIERARCHY OF NEEDS
Authors: Bayoumi Magda
Published: November 2011

Along with basic survival and other clinical outcomes, patients’ quality of life is an important indicator to reflect the needs of these patients. Human needs are classified in Maslow's hierarchy, where the most essential basic physiological need provides the base, and self actualisation is at the top of pyramid.

Aim: The aim of this study is to identify the patients’ needs who are on maintenance haemodialysis using concept of Maslow's hierarchy.

Method: The descriptive study was conducted in the dialysis unit of Suez Canal University Hospitals. The study included 50 patients attending the dialysis unit.

Results: The findings showed that the patients’ highest need was for self‐esteem (92.0%), whereas the lowest was for love and belonging (38.0%). Statistically significant relationships were revealed between the identified love and belonging needs and patients’ age and the duration of dialysis (p = 0.008). The total needs score was lower with the longer duration of dialysis (59.6 ± 7.3), compared to those with a duration less than 24 months (65.7 ± 8.1), p = 0.02.

Conclusion: Based on the main study findings it is concluded that haemodialysis patients’ highest need was for self‐esteem, and the lowest was for love and belonging. These needs increased with longer duration of dialysis. Nurses need to be aware of these findings in order to be able to supply the necessary support to help the patient regain his/her self‐concept.
Phenylbutazone and flunixin meglumine used singly or in combination in experimental lameness in horses
Authors: FOREMAN J. H. , RUEMMLER R.
Published: November 2011

Reason for performing study:Using an adjustable heart bar shoe model of foot pain, the objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that the combined use of phenylbutazone (PBZ) and flunixin meglumine (FM) would prove more efficacious in alleviating lameness than either drug alone.

Materials and methods:One hour after induction of lameness at weekly intervals, 8 healthy adult Thoroughbred horses randomly underwent one of 4 i.v. treatments: saline (SAL) placebo (1 ml/45 kg bwt), PBZ (4.4 mg/kg bwt), FM (1.1 mg/kg bwt) or PBZ+FM (at the same dosages as given individually). Heart rate (HR) and lameness score (LS) responses were assessed in a blinded manner every 20 min for 5 h after lameness induction and then hourly for 12 h after treatment. Jugular venous blood samples were obtained at ‐1, 0, 0.05, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 h and subsequently analysed for drug concentrations. Repeated measures ANOVA andpost hocTukey's test were used to identify analgesic effects at a significance level of P<0.05.

Results:Heart rate was lower in all nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID)‐treated trials from 2 h to 10 h post treatment (P<0.05). Analgesic effects of FM and PBZ+FM, as evidenced by decreases in HR, lasted for 12 h post treatment (P<0.05). Lameness score decreased earlier in PBZ and PBZ+FM trials than in FM trials (P<0.05) and the analgesic effect on LS lasted for 12 h post treatment for all NSAID trials (P<0.05). Peak PBZ plasma concentration was 73.7 ± 6.0 and 77.9 ± 5.5 µg/ml. Peak FM concentration was 12.0 ± 0.8 and 13.7 ± 1.0 µg/ml

Conclusions:It was concluded that the combination of PBZ+FM was not more effective than either PBZ or FM alone. These data do not support the hypothesis that the combination is more efficacious at these dosages than either drug alone in this model of acute foot pain.
DATA PRIVACY FOR SIMPLY ANONYMIZED SOCIAL NETWORK LOGS REPRESENTED AS GRAPHS – CONSIDERATIONS FOR GRAPH ALTERATION OPERATIONS
Authors: NETTLETON DAVID F. , TORRA VICENÇ
Published: November 2011

In this paper we review the state of the art on graph privacy with special emphasis on applications to online social networks, and we consider some novel aspects which have not been greatly covered in the specialized literature on graph privacy. The following key considerations are covered: (i) choice of different operators to modify the graph; (ii) information loss based on the cost of graph operations in terms of statistical characteristics (degree, clustering coefficient and path length) in the original graph; (iii) computational cost of the operations; (iv) in the case of the aggregation of two nodes, the choice of similar adjacent nodes rather than isomorphic topologies, in order to maintain the overall structure of the graph; (v) a statistically knowledgeable attacker who is able to search for regions of a simply anonymized graph based on statistical characteristics and map those onto a given node and its immediate neighborhood.
VIBRATORY BEHAVIOR OF A DOUBLE PANEL SYSTEM BY THE OPERATIONAL MODAL ANALYSIS
Authors: ABBES MOHAMED SLIM , CHAABANE MARIEM MILADI , AKROUT ALI , FAKHFAKH TAHAR , HADDAR MOHAMED
Published: November 2011

The present study tackles the vibratory behavior of a double panel system by operational modal analysis (OMA) using one of the major techniques of blind source separation (BSS), which is the independent component analysis (ICA). For this purpose, the OMA method and the ICA concept are presented and exploited in order to identify the eigenmodes of a double panel system. Then, results obtained by the OMA technique are presented and compared with those achieved by the modal recombination method. Since a good argument is observed, this approach can be used in conjunction with experimental works.
Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy shows lower intramyocellular lipid accumulation in middle-aged subjects predisposed to familial longevity
Authors: Wijsman C. A. , van Opstal A. M. , Kan H. E. , Maier A. B. , Westendorp R. G. J. , Slagboom P. E. , Webb A. G. , Mooijaart S. P. , van Heemst D.
Published: November 2011

Families predisposed to longevity show enhanced glucose tolerance and skeletal muscle insulin sensitivity compared with controls, independent of body composition and physical activity. Intramyocellular lipid (IMCL) accumulation in skeletal muscle has been associated with insulin resistance. Here, we assessed whether subjects enriched for familial longevity have lower IMCL levels. We determined IMCL levels in 48 subjects from the Leiden Longevity Study, comprising 24 offspring of nonagenarian siblings and 24 partners thereof as control subjects. IMCL levels were assessed noninvasively using short echo time proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) of the tibialis anterior muscle with a 7 Tesla human MR scanner. IMCL levels were calculated relative to the total creatine (tCr) CH3 signal. Physical activity was assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). After correction for age, sex, BMI, and physical activity, offspring of long-lived nonagenarian siblings tended to show lower IMCL levels compared with controls (IMCL/tCr: 3.1 ± 0.5 vs. 4.5 ± 0.5, respectively, P = 0.051). In a pairwise comparison, this difference reached statistical significance ( P = 0.038). We conclude that offspring of nonagenarian siblings predisposed to longevity show lower IMCL levels compared with environmentally matched control subjects. Future research should focus on assessing what mechanisms may explain the lower IMCL levels in familial longevity.
Differential Effects of Acute (Extenuating) and Chronic (Training) Exercise on Inflammation and Oxidative Stress Status in an Animal Model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Teixeira de Lemos Edite , Pinto Rui , Oliveira Jorge , Garrido Patrícia , Sereno José , Mascarenhas-Melo Filipa , Páscoa-Pinheiro João , Teixeira Frederico , Reis Flávio
Published: November 2011

This study compares the effects of a single bout of exercise (acute extenuating) with those promoted by an exercise training program (chronic), focusing on low-grade chronic inflammation profile and on oxidative stress status, using the obese ZDF rats as a model of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Animals were sacrificed after 12 weeks of a swimming training program and after a single bout of acute extenuating exercise. Glycaemic, insulinemic, and lipidic profile (triglycerides, total-cholesterol) were evaluated, as well as inflammatory (serum CRPhs, TNF-α, adiponectin) and oxidative (lipidic peroxidation and uric acid) status. When compared to obese diabetic sedentary rats, the animals submitted to acute exercise presented significantly lower values of glycaemia and insulinaemia, with inflammatory profile and oxidative stress significantly aggravated. The trained animals showed amelioration of glycaemic and lipidic dysmetabolism, accompanied by remarkable reduction of inflammatory and oxidative markers. In conclusion, the results presented herein suggessted that exercise pathogenesis-oriented interventions should not exacerbate underlying inflammatory stress associated with T2DM.
Load-Resistance- and Voltage-Tunable Photovoltaic Effect in Tilting Manganite Films
Authors: Han X. L. , Ni H. , Zhao K. , Kong Y.-C. , Wong H. K. , Zhao S. Q.
Published: November 2011

The photovoltaic properties of miscut La2/3Ca1/3MnO3films were systematically investigated with different bias voltage (Vb) and load resistance (RS). The photoresponse depended strongly onVbandRSand was improved greatly by increasingVbandRS. The maximum photovolvaic sensitivity reached 62.5 mV/mJ. The present results suggested the promising potential of increasingVbandRSin high-sensitivity detectors.
Methane Hydrate Distribution from Prolonged and Repeated Formation in Natural and Compacted Sand Samples: X-Ray CT Observations
Authors: Rees Emily V. L. , Kneafsey Timothy J. , Seol Yongkoo
Published: November 2011

To study physical properties of methane gas hydrate-bearing sediments, it is necessary to synthesize laboratory samples due to the limited availability of cores from natural deposits. X-ray computed tomography (CT) and other observations have shown gas hydrate to occur in a number of morphologies over a variety of sediment types. To aid in understanding formation and growth patterns of hydrate in sediments, methane hydrate was repeatedly formed in laboratory-packed sand samples and in a natural sediment core from the Mount Elbert Stratigraphic Test Well. CT scanning was performed during hydrate formation and decomposition steps, and periodically while the hydrate samples remained under stable conditions for up to 60 days. The investigation revealed the impact of water saturation on location and morphology of hydrate in both laboratory and natural sediments during repeated hydrate formations. Significant redistribution of hydrate and water in the samples was observed over both the short and long term.
Contact Investigation of Children Exposed to Tuberculosis in South East Asia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Triasih Rina , Rutherford Merrin , Lestari Trisasi , Utarini Adi , Robertson Colin F. , Graham Stephen M.
Published: November 2011

Background. Screening of children who are household contacts of tuberculosis (TB) cases is universally recommended but rarely implemented in TB endemic setting. This paper aims to summarise published data of the prevalence of TB infection and disease among child contacts in South East Asia.Methods. Search strategies were developed to identify all published studies from South East Asia of household contact investigation that included children (0–15 years).Results. Eleven studies were eligible for review. There was heterogeneity across the studies. TB infection was common among child contacts under 15 years of age (24.4–69.2%) and was higher than the prevalence of TB disease, which varied from 3.3% to 5.5%.Conclusion. TB infection is common among children that are household contacts of TB cases in South East Asia. Novel approaches to child contact screening and management that improve implementation in South East Asia need to be further evaluated.
Regulatory T Cells Accumulate in the Lung Allergic Inflammation and Efficiently Suppress T-Cell Proliferation but Not Th2 Cytokine Production
Authors: Faustino Lucas , Mucida Daniel , Keller Alexandre Castro , Demengeot Jocelyne , Bortoluci Karina , Sardinha Luiz Roberto , Carla Takenaka Maisa , Basso Alexandre Salgado , Faria Ana Maria Caetano , Russo Momtchilo
Published: November 2011

Foxp3+CD25+CD4+regulatory T cells are vital for peripheral tolerance and control of tissue inflammation. In this study, we characterized the phenotype and monitored the migration and activity of regulatory T cells present in the airways of allergic or tolerant mice after allergen challenge. To induce lung allergic inflammation, mice were sensitized twice with ovalbumin/aluminum hydroxide gel and challenged twice with intranasal ovalbumin. Tolerance was induced by oral administration of ovalbumin for 5 consecutive days prior to OVA sensitization and challenge. We detected regulatory T cells (Foxp3+CD25+CD4+T cells) in the airways of allergic and tolerant mice; however, the number of regulatory T cells was more than 40-fold higher in allergic mice than in tolerant mice. Lung regulatory T cells expressed an effector/memory phenotype (CCR4highCD62LlowCD44highCD54highCD69+) that distinguished them from naive regulatory T cells (CCR4intCD62LhighCD44intCD54intCD69−). These regulatory T cells efficiently suppressed pulmonary T-cell proliferation but not Th2 cytokine production.
Significance of PELP1 in ER-Negative Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Roy Sudipa , Chakravarty Dimple , Cortez Valerie , De Mukhopadhyay Keya , Bandyopadhyay Abhik , Ahn Jung-Mo , Raj Ganesh V. , Tekmal Rajeshwar R. , Sun LuZhe , Vadlamudi Ratna K.
Published: November 2011

Breast cancer metastasis is a major clinical problem. The molecular basis of breast cancer progression to metastasis remains poorly understood. PELP1 is an estrogen receptor (ER) coregulator that has been implicated as a proto-oncogene whose expression is deregulated in metastatic breast tumors and whose expression is retained in ER-negative tumors. We examined the mechanism and significance of PELP1-mediated signaling in ER-negative breast cancer progression using two ER-negative model cells (MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells) that stably express PELP1-shRNA. These model cells had reduced PELP1 expression (75% of endogenous levels) and exhibited less propensity to proliferate in growth assays in vitro. PELP1 downregulation substantially affected migration of ER-negative cells in Boyden chamber and invasion assays. Using mechanistic studies, we found that PELP1 modulated expression of several genes involved in the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), including MMPs, SNAIL, TWIST, and ZEB. In addition, PELP1 knockdown reduced the in vivo metastatic potential of ER-negative breast cancer cells and significantly reduced lung metastatic nodules in a xenograft assay. These results implicate PELP1 as having a role in ER-negative breast cancer metastasis, reveal novel mechanism of coregulator regulation of metastasis via promoting cell motility/EMT by modulating expression of genes, and suggest PELP1 may be a potential therapeutic target for metastatic ER-negative breast cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 10(1); 25–33. ©2011 AACR.
Influence of BDNF Variants on Diagnosis and Response to Treatment in Patients with Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia
Authors: Pae Chi-Un , Chiesa Alberto , Porcelli Stefano , Han Changsu , Patkar Ashwin A. , Lee Soo-Jung , Park Moon Ho , Serretti Alessandro , De Ronchi Diana
Published: November 2011

Aim: The present study aimed to explore whether some single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) within the BDNF gene could be associated with major depression (MD), bipolar disorder (BD) and schizophrenia, and whether they could predict clinical outcomes in Korean inpatients treated with antidepressants, mood stabilizers and antipsychotics, respectively. Methods: One hundred and forty-five patients with MD, 132 patients with BD, 221 patients with schizophrenia and 170 psychiatrically healthy controls were genotyped for 5 BDNF SNPs (rs2030324, rs7103873, rs10835210, rs11030101 and rs6265). Baseline and final clinical measures – including the Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale, Young Mania Rating Scale and Positive and Negative Symptoms Scale for patients with MD, BD and schizophrenia, respectively – were recorded. Results: rs10835210 CA and rs11030101 AT genotype frequencies were higher in BD and schizophrenia patients than in healthy and MD subjects. No significant association was found with clinical improvement. Discussion: Our findings provide evidence of an association between BDNF and BD and schizophrenia. However, taking into account the several limitations of our study, including the moderately small sample size, further research is needed to draw more definitive conclusions.
Effects of Acute Stress-Induced Immunomodulation on Th1/Th2 Cytokine and Catecholamine Receptor Expression in Human Peripheral Blood Cells
Authors: Xiang Lianbin , Del Ben Kevin S. , Rehm Kristina E. , Marshall, Jr. Gailen D.
Published: November 2011

Aims: There is evidence that psychological stress can modulate immune functions. It has been hypothesized that acute stressors can affect both immune balance (including Th1 and Th2 cytokines) and expression of stress hormone receptors. This study investigated the impact of an acute stressor on gene expressions of glucocorticoid receptor (GR), and β2-adrenergic receptor (β2AR) in leukocytes. The effect on T regulatory cells (Treg), regulatory cytokines IL-10 and TGF-β, Th1 and Th2 cytokines and their receptors IFN-γR and IL-4R was also studied. Method: Fourteen normal volunteers completed an acute laboratory stressor, and blood samples were collected before, immediately after, and 1, 2, 6 and 24 h after completion of the tasks. Cytokine production and Treg were determined by flow cytometry. Gene expressions of receptors were analyzed by real-time PCR. Results: IFN-γ was increased immediately and 1 h after stressor (p < 0.05, respectively) and upregulation of IFN-γR mRNA was noted at 2, 6 and 24 h (p < 0.01, respectively). IL-10 was decreased at 2 h (p < 0.01). There were no significant changes in post-task IL-4R, Treg, or TGF-β. β2AR mRNA was increased at 2, 6 and 24 h (p < 0.01, respectively). On the other hand, no significant alterations were observed in GR expression. Conclusion: An acute stressor increased Th1 cytokine production and its receptor expression. β2AR but not GR was significantly increased after an acute stressor, which supports the hypothesis that catecholamine-mediated signal pathways in communication with the central nervous and immune systems play a fundamental role in acute stress-mediated immune alterations.
Colon Cancer Screening: Which Non-Invasive Filter Tests?
Authors: Pox Christian
Published: November 2011

The following non-invasive stool tests for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening exist: guaiac or immunochemical fecal occult blood testing (FOBT), genetic stool tests and the M2-PK. Currently the most widely used tests are guaiac-based (gFOBT). Several randomized controlled trials have shown that gFOBT are able to achieve a reduction in CRC-related mortality. This reduction is achieved by detecting asymptomatic cancers at an early stage with a better prognosis. However, gFOBT have a low sensitivity for colorectal adenomas and are thus unlikely to be able to reduce the incidence of CRC. Furthermore, gFOBT are not specific for human blood and can be influenced by external factors. Immunochemical tests (iFOBT) only detect human blood in the stool. In two recent randomized studies from the Netherlands comparing guaiac and immunochemical tests in the asymptomatic population, iFOBT were found to detect more cancers than gFOBT. Furthermore, iFOBT were able to detect more advanced adenomas thus having the potential to be able to reduce the incidence of CRC as well as CRC-related mortality. In the recently released European CRC screening guidelines, iFOBT are considered the screening test of choice. Several questions remain however. It is currently unknown what the optimal cut-off value for an iFOBT to be considered positive should be and what the number of stool samples is that are required. Genetic stool tests detect mutations in stool that can be found in CRC. The original test testing for 21 genetic changes was found to be superior to gFOBT for the detection of cancers. However, the sensitivity was moderate (51.6%) and the sensitivity for advanced adenomas was low. In the meantime the test has been modified improving DNA extraction and reducing the number of mutations tested for as well as including a methylation marker. The efficacy of the modified test in the screening population is unknown. M2-PK is an isomer of the enzyme pyruvate kinase that is involved in glycolysis. Studies have found a good sensitivity for cancers, a low sensitivity for advanced adenomas with a specificity of around 80%. Further studies in the screening population are required.
Acid Inhibition and the Acid Rebound Effect
Authors: Lerotić Ivan , Baršić Neven , Stojsavljević Sanja , Duvnjak Marko
Published: November 2011

Acid secretion from gastric parietal cells is a result of a complex interaction between different stimulatory and inhibitory mediators. One of the most important mediators is gastrin, which stimulates gastric acid secretion from parietal cells mostly indirectly, by the release of histamine from enterochromaffin-like (ECL) cells. Therapy with antisecretory agents leads to hypergastrinemia, mucosal hyperplasia and increased ECL cell mass, which results in increase of gastric acid secretion capacity. This increased secretion capacity has been shown to manifest itself after antisecretory therapy withdrawal as rebound acid hypersecretion (RAH). Various studies have quantified acid hypersecretion after the cessation of therapy with H2 antagonists and proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs). While most of those studies had small patient numbers, the findings generally demonstrate that RAH after H2 antagonist therapy is of low magnitude, short duration, and has questionable clinical significance. On the contrary, acid hypersecretion after PPI therapy is more pronounced, lasts longer, and could possibly be the cause of acid-related symptoms. Potential for causing symptoms has recently been confirmed in two randomized placebo-controlled studies, and while we witness the increasing use of PPIs, RAH could become a proven cause of failure to withdraw therapy in a proportion of patients with reflux or dyspeptic symptoms.
Differential Diagnosis in a Primary Care Population with Presumed Airway Obstruction: A Real-Life Study
Authors: Buffels Johan , Degryse Jan , Liistro Giuseppe , Decramer Marc
Published: November 2011

Background: Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have major symptoms in common. However, the mode of the underlying chronic airway inflammation is different. There is still no single diagnostic test that can be considered a gold standard to distinguish asthma from COPD. Objectives: To determine the diagnostic accuracy for asthma and COPD of a series of diagnostic steps in a population older than 40 years with probable obstructive airway disease (OAD) in primary care. Methods: In this prospective cohort study, patients without a certain diagnosis underwent a work-up, including office spirometry by their general practitioner (GP). They were then referred to a pulmonologist, and they had control visits with their GP. The diagnostic gain of subsequent steps was calculated for 2 endpoints, namely the specialist’s opinion and the GP’s final opinion. Results: Up to 60% of the patients failed to consult with the pulmonologist. For this subgroup, the office spirometry induced significantly more diagnostic congruency than any other diagnostic step. The specialists rejected 44.5% of the diagnoses made by the GPs, including spirometry. High values of diagnostic gain were found after the office spirometry and after the specialist’s advice. Up to 25% of the population taking bronchodilators were judged not to suffer from OAD. Conclusions: Office spirometry added significantly more to the diagnostic certainty of the GPs than questionnaires, history and clinical examination. A pulmonologist’s advice contributed more to diagnostic certainty than any other diagnostic step. Nevertheless, 26% of the diagnoses made by the chest physicians were reconsidered by the GPs.
Review of Postpartum Contraceptive Practices at Chiang Mai University Hospital: Implications for Improving Quality of Service
Authors: Chaovisitsaree Somsak , Noi-um Supranee , Kietpeerakool Chumnan
Published: November 2011

Objective: To evaluate the acceptance rate and patterns of contraceptive use among postpartum women. Subjects and Methods:The records of 1,009 postpartum women attending the Family Planning Clinic at Chiang Mai University Hospital, Thailand, during January to December 2009 were reviewed.Results: Mean age was 28.2 ± 5.7 years (range 15-48). Almost all 920 women (91.2%) practiced breastfeeding. The acceptance rate of contraception was 97.6%. The types of contraceptive used were: depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, 387 (38.4%); progestin-only pills, 262 (26.0%); tubal resection, 201 (19.9%); male condom, 78 (7.7%); oral combined pills, 49 (4.9%); intrauterine device, 5 (0.5%); implant, 3 (0.3%). Among women undergoing tubal resection, 29 (14.4%) were ≤24 years of age. Significant independent predictors for using long-acting reversible contraception were young age and little or no formal education. Conclusion:The acceptance rate of contraception in this study was high. However, the following issues need to be evaluated: compliance of women using progestin-only pills, awareness of long-acting reversible contraception as an alternative option in women considering sterilization, and interventions to promote the use of intrauterine devices and implants.
Telling the Story of XX Sex Reversal in the Goat: Highlighting the Sex-Crossroad in Domestic Mammals
Authors: Pannetier M. , Elzaiat M. , Thépot D. , Pailhoux E.
Published: November 2011

The conditions for sex reversal in vertebrate species have been studied extensively and have highlighted numerous key factors involved in sex differentiation. We review here the history of the development of knowledge, referring to one example of complete female-to-male XX sex reversal associated with a polled phenotype in the goat. The results and hypotheses concerning this polled intersex syndrome (PIS) are then presented, firstly with respect to the transcriptional regulatory effects of the PIS mutation, and secondly regarding the role of the main ovarian-differentiating factor in this PIS locus, the FOXL2 gene.
Statistical Analysis of Noncommensurate Multiple Outcomes
Authors: Teixeira-Pinto Armando , Mauri Laura
Published: November 2011

Many studies collect multiple outcomes to characterize treatment effectiveness or evaluate risk factors. These outcomes tend to be correlated because they are measuring related quantities in the same individuals, but the common approach used by researchers is to ignore this correlation and analyze each outcome separately. There may be advantages to consider the simultaneous analysis of the outcomes using multivariate methods. Although the joint analysis of outcomes measured in the same scale (commensurate outcomes) can be undertaken with standard statistical methods, outcomes measured in different scales (noncommensurate outcomes), such as mixed binary and continuous outcomes, present more difficult challenges. In this article, we contrast some statistical approaches to analyze noncommensurate multiple outcomes. We discuss the advantages of a multivariate method for the analysis of noncommensurate outcomes, including situations of missing data. A real data example from a clinical trial, comparing bare-metal with sirolimus-eluting stents, is used to illustrate the differences between the statistical approaches.