bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of BCR-ABL1 Transcript Levels at 3 Months Is the Only Requirement for Predicting Outcome for Patients With Chronic Myeloid Leukemia Treated With Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors
Authors: Marin David , Ibrahim Amr R. , Lucas Claire , Gerrard Gareth , Wang Lihui , Szydlo Richard M. , Clark Richard E. , Apperley Jane F. , Milojkovic Dragana , Bua Marco , Pavlu Jiri , Paliompeis Christos , Reid Alistair , Rezvani Katayoun , Goldman John M. , Foroni Letizia
Published: November 2011

Purpose

We studied BCR-ABL1 transcript levels in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia in chronic phase (CML-CP) at 3, 6, and 12 months after starting imatinib to identify molecular milestones that would predict for overall survival (OS) and other outcomes more reliably than serial marrow cytogenetics.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed 282 patients with CML-CP who received imatinib 400 mg/d as first-line therapy followed by dasatinib or nilotinib if treatment with imatinib failed. We used a receiver operating characteristic curve to identify the cutoffs in transcript levels at 3, 6, and 12 months that would best predict patient outcome. We validated our findings in an independent cohort of 95 patients treated elsewhere.

Results

Patients with transcript levels of more than 9.84% (n = 68) at 3 months had significantly lower 8-year probabilities of OS (56.9% v 93.3%; P < .001), progression-free survival, cumulative incidence of complete cytogenetic response, and complete molecular response than those with higher transcript levels. Similarly, transcript levels of more than 1.67% (n = 87) at 6 months and more than 0.53% (n = 93) at 12 months identified high-risk patients. However, transcript levels at 3 months were the most strongly predictive for the various outcomes. When we compared OS for the groups defined molecularly at 6 and 12 months with the usual cytogenetic milestones, categorization by transcript numbers was the only independent predictor for OS (relative risk, 0.207; P < .001 and relative risk, 0.158; P < .001, respectively).

Conclusion

A single measurement of BCR-ABL1 transcripts performed at 3 months is the best way to identify patients destined to fare poorly, thereby allowing early clinical intervention.
Allies or Servants? The Journey of Indian Conquistadors in the Lienzo of Analco
Authors: Yannakakis Yanna
Published: November 2011

This article analyzes ambiguities in the roles and identities of the indigenous allies of the Spanish conquerors of Oaxaca's Sierra Norte by putting into dialogue the Lienzo of Analco—an indigenous-produced cartographic narrative of the conquest of the sierra—and archival documentation. The Lienzo of Analco communicates the story of the conquest in an area far removed from pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican power centers from the perspective of lesser or “forgotten” allies of the Spanish conquerors: naborías (native people in the service of Spaniards, who were neither slave nor free); and it recounts the birth of their ethnic polity, the barrio of Analco. The status of these indigenous allies marks a central tension in the lienzo's message: were they allies (indios conquistadores) or servants (naborías)? Historical documents say both, but the coexistence of these statuses poses a conundrum, since in other parts of Mesoamerica, Indian allies of the Spanish endeavored to distance themselves from naborías. The patrons and painters of the lienzo sought to resolve this tension by casting the dependent servitude of naborías as merit-worthy service to the Spanish crown with the goal of achieving special collective status and privileges as “Indian conquistadors.”
Continuity and Change in Early Colonial Maya Community Governance: A Lexical Perspective
Authors: Jackson Sarah E.
Published: November 2011

Dictionaries of Mayan languages, recorded by Spanish priests in the early years of the colonial period, provide a rich body of data for investigating indigenous systems of governance around the time of contact. Dictionary sources drawn from four geographical regions of the Maya world shed light on Maya political organization of this period as well as on larger issues of the construction of difference and the dynamism of these systems. In particular, this article explores two questions: First, how did systems of community governance operate in this era, and to what extent did they represent new adaptations versus long-term continuities? And second, is it possible to access emic or internal perspectives on meanings behind governance, difference, and even change in order to illuminate Maya perspectives on the early colonial experience? The results highlight the intertwined nature of change and continuity for this era, help to identify indigenous models for framing governance and change, and provide new perspectives on the applicability of these data for comparison with other periods of Maya history.
Reelin sets the pace of neocortical neurogenesis
Authors: Lakomá Jarmila , Garcia-Alonso Luis , Luque Juan M.
Published: November 2011

Migration of neurons during cortical development is often assumed to rely on purely post-proliferative reelin signaling. However, Notch signaling, long known to regulate neural precursor formation and maintenance, is required for the effects of reelin on neuronal migration. Here, we show that reelin gain-of-function causes a higher expression of Notch target genes in radial glia and accelerates the production of both neurons and intermediate progenitor cells. Converse alterations correlate with reelin loss-of-function, consistent with reelin controlling Notch signaling during neurogenesis. Ectopic expression of reelin in isolated clones of progenitors causes a severe reduction in neuronal differentiation. In mosaic cell cultures, reelin-primed progenitor cells respond to wild-type cells by further decreasing neuronal differentiation, consistent with an increased sensitivity to lateral inhibition. These results indicate that reelin and Notch signaling cooperate to set the pace of neocortical neurogenesis, a prerequisite for proper neuronal migration and cortical layering.
The astrocyte-expressed integrin αvβ8 governs blood vessel sprouting in the developing retina
Authors: Hirota Shinya , Liu Qian , Lee Hye Shin , Hossain Mohammad G. , Lacy-Hulbert Adam , McCarty Joseph H.
Published: November 2011

The mouse retina is vascularized after birth when angiogenic blood vessels grow and sprout along a pre-formed latticework of astrocytes. How astrocyte-derived cues control patterns of blood vessel growth and sprouting, however, remains enigmatic. Here, we have used molecular genetic strategies in mice to demonstrate that αvβ8 integrin expressed in astrocytes is essential for neovascularization of the developing retina. Selective ablation of αv or β8 integrin gene expression in astrocytes leads to impaired blood vessel sprouting and intraretinal hemorrhage, particularly during formation of the secondary vascular plexus. These pathologies correlate, in part, with diminished αvβ8 integrin-mediated activation of extracellular matrix-bound latent transforming growth factor βs (TGFβs) and defective TGFβ signaling in vascular endothelial cells, but not astrocytes. Collectively, our data demonstrate that αvβ8 integrin is a component of a paracrine signaling axis that links astrocytes to blood vessels and is essential for proper regulation of retinal angiogenesis.
STD and HIV Testing Behaviors Among Black And Puerto Rican Young Adults
Authors: Carter Marion W. , Kraft Joan Marie , Hatfield‐Timajchy Kendra , Hock‐Long Linda , Hogben Matthew
Published: November 2011

CONTEXT: Given the high rates of infection among urban young adults, STD and HIV testing promotion is a public health priority. To inform future testing efforts, lifetime and recent testing behaviors of this population within casual and serious relationships should be better understood.

METHODS: Data from a 2007–2008 study conducted in select neighborhoods in Hartford and Philadelphia were used to examine self‐reported STD and HIV testing behaviors and attitudes among 483 sexually active black and Puerto Rican young adults aged 18–25. Multivariate ordered logit regression analyses were conducted to assess characteristics associated with lifetime number of STD tests.

RESULTS: More than eight in 10 participants reported having been tested for STDs, and a similar proportion for HIV, most of them multiple times. Nineteen percent had ever had an STD diagnosis. A majority—86%—perceived their risk of STD infection in the next year as “not at all likely.” Sixty‐one percent of those in serious relationships reported that both partners had been tested, compared with 25% of those in casual relationships. Characteristics associated with higher lifetime number of STD tests were being female (odds ratio, 2.2), being from Philadelphia (2.5), being black (1.5), having lived with two or more serious partners (1.7) and having ever received an STD diagnosis (2.3).

DISCUSSION: Despite their risks, participants did not perceive themselves to be at risk of STDs. However, they did report testing repeatedly. Testing was highly acceptable, particularly within serious relationships. Questions about the timing of testing initiation and repeat testing merit attention for the benefits of widespread testing to be fully realized.
Effects of fibrates on C-reactive protein concentrations: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hao Yongchen , Zhang Huan , Yang Xueli , Wang Lu , Gu Dongfeng
Published: November 2011

The effects of fibrates on C-reactive protein (CRP) are controversial. This meta-analysis was conducted to synthesize the available clinical trial evidence and summarize the effects of fibrates on CRP concentrations. In addition, this study assessed the relationship between changes in CRP and lipid measures.

A systematic search was conducted of randomized controlled trials on the effects of fibrates on CRP concentrations in the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library Database up to January 2011. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effect model. Meta-regression analysis was employed to assess the relationships between average change in CRP and lipid profiles.

Sixteen randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with placebo, treatment with fibrates significantly decreased CRP concentrations (weighted mean difference –0.47 mg/L, 95% confidence interval –0.93 to –0.01 mg/L, p=0.046). Fibrates significantly reduced CRP concentrations in trials with a higher baseline CRP concentrations (≥3 mg/L). There was a significant correlation between change in CRP and change in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (regression coefficient or slope=–2.03, 95% CI –3.20 to –0.87, p=0.001).

Fibrates can reduce CRP concentrations and change in CRP was correlated with change in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol but not with triglyceride. These findings suggest that patients with dyslipidemia could benefit from fibrates treatment by CRP lowering and this benefit is associated with lipid profile improving.
Centralizer of an idempotent in a reductive monoid
Authors: Putcha Mohan S.
Published: November 2011

Let M be a reductive monoid. If e is an idempotent in M, we prove that the centralizer M(e) of e in M is a regular monoid with a finite graded poset of 𝒥-classes. We compute this poset explicitly when M is of canonical or dual canonical type and e is the relevant pivotal idempotent.
31 Year Evolution of the Rotating-Platform Total Knee Replacment: Coping With “Spinout” and Wear
Authors: Buechel Frederick F. , Buechel Frederick F. , Helbig Thomas E. , Pappas Michael J.
Published: November 2011

Low-contact-stress rotating-platform knee replacements were the original mobile-bearing knees developed by the senior authors in 1978 to improve fixation and minimize wear, however, 1-2 % experienced “spin-out” and wear resulting in the development of a third generation rotating platform (Buechel-Pappas, or B-P) in 1991. The purpose of this study is to evaluate design modifications incorporated into the B-P device based upon clinical outcomes. Clinical results of the initial 310 cementless B-P rotating platform total knee replacements in 257 patients were analyzed using a strict knee scoring scale. Of that group, 259 total knees in 206 patients were followed for 2–18 years (mean: 7.6 years). The titanium alloy metallic implants had a 10 μm thick titanium nitride (TiN) coating on all bearing and fixation surfaces and sintered-bead porous-coating, pore size of 350 microns, on all fixation surfaces. The rotating-platform bearing allowed 45° of internal and external rotation with further rotation limited by a stop pin on the tibial component to block complete rotary subluxation/dislocation of the bearing in the event of significant flexion instability or rotational trauma. The study showed 86.4 % excellent, 12.3 % good, 0.3 % fair, and 1.0 % poor results using a strict knee scoring scale. Complications requiring revision included tibial component loosening in 2 super-obese (BMI >50), osteoarthritic patients (0.6%) and 1 late deep infection (0.3%) in a rheumatoid patient after 3.3 years. There were no cases of bearing wear, subluxation, or dislocation seen. Radiographic analysis, using >2 mm lucency in any implant zone, demonstrated 0 % of radiolucencies around femoral components, 2.6 % around tibial components, and 0 % around patella components. Survivorship, using an end point of revision for wear or component loosening was 99.4 % at the 18-year interval.
Kardiovaskuläre Variabilitätsanalysen zur Risikostratifizierung nach Herzoperationen
Authors: Malberg Hagen , Wessel Niels , Bauernschmitt Robert , Zaunseder Sebastian , Kurths Jürgen , Bretthauer Georg
Published: November 2011

Methoden zur Charakterisierung der kardiovaskulären Regulation wurden angewendet, um den Heilungsverlauf und das Risiko bei herzchirurgischen Patienten zu untersuchen. Dabei wurde der Zeitverlauf während der ersten 24 Stunden nach der Herzoperation, der präoperative autonome Status des Patienten und die Beeinflussung verschiedener Operationstechniken auf das postoperative kardiovaskuläre Regulationsverhalten untersucht. Die Ergebnisse deuten darauf hin, daß diese Bereiche in zukünftige Verfahren zur Risikostratifizierung bei herzchirurgischen Patienten einbezogen werden sollten.
Normalizing action of exendin-4 and GLP-1 in the glucose metabolism of extrapancreatic tissues in insulin-resistant and type 2 diabetic states
Authors: Moreno Paola , Nuche-Berenguer Bernardo , Gutiérrez-Rojas Irene , Acitores Alicia , Sancho Verónica , Valverde Isabel , González Nieves , Villanueva-Peñacarrillo María L
Published: November 2011

Exendin-4 (Ex-4) mimics glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1 or GCG as listed in the HUGO database), being anti-diabetic and anorectic, in stimulating glucose and lipid metabolism in extrapancreatic tissues. We studied the characteristics of Ex-4 and GLP-1 action, during prolonged treatment, on GLUTs expression (mRNA and protein), glycogen content (GC), glucose transport (GT), glycogen synthasea(GSa), and kinase (PI3K and MAPKs) activity, in liver, muscle, and fat of insulin-resistant (IR, by fructose) and type 2 diabetic (T2D, streptozotocin at birth) rats compared with normal rats. In both IR and T2D, the three tissues studied presented alterations in all measured parameters. In liver, GLP-1 and also Ex-4 normalized the lower than normalGlut2(Slc2a2) expression and showed a trend to normalize the reduced GC in IR, and GLP-1, like Ex-4, also in T2D, effects mediated by PI3K and MAPKs. In skeletal muscle, neither GLP-1 nor Ex-4 modifiedGlut4(Slc2a4) expression in either experimental model but showed normalization of reduced GT and GSa, in parallel with the normalization of reduced PI3K activity in T2D and MAPKs in both models. In adipose tissue, the alteredGLUT4expression in IR and T2D, along with reduced GT in IR and increased GT in T2D, and with hyperactivated PI3K in both, became normal after GLP-1 and Ex-4 treatment; yet, MAPKs, that were also higher, became normal only after Ex-4 treatment. The data shows that Ex-4, as well as GLP-1, exerts a normalizing effect on IR and T2D states through a distinct post-receptor mechanism, the liver being the main target for Ex-4 and GLP-1 to control glucose homeostasis.
Combination treatment with pioglitazone and fenofibrate attenuates pioglitazone-mediated acceleration of bone loss in ovariectomized rats
Authors: Samadfam Rana , Awori Malaika , Bénardeau Agnes , Bauss Frieder , Sebokova Elena , Wright Matthew , Smith Susan Y
Published: November 2011

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) γ agonists, such as pioglitazone (Pio), improve glycemia and lipid profile but are associated with bone loss and fracture risk. Data regarding bone effects of PPARα agonists (including fenofibrate (Feno)) are limited, although animal studies suggest that Feno may increase bone mass. This study investigated the effects of a 13-week oral combination treatment with Pio (10 mg/kg per day)+Feno (25 mg/kg per day) on body composition and bone mass parameters compared with Pio or Feno alone in adult ovariectomized (OVX) rats, with a 4-week bone depletion period, followed by a 6-week treatment-free period. Treatment of OVX rats with Pio+Feno resulted in ∼50% lower fat mass gain compared with Pio treatment alone. Combination treatment with Pio+Feno partially prevented Pio-induced loss of bone mineral content (∼45%) and bone mineral density (BMD; ∼60%) at the lumbar spine. Similar effects of treatments were observed at the femur, most notably at sites rich in trabecular bone. At the proximal tibial metaphysis, concomitant treatment with Pio+Feno prevented Pio exacerbation of ovariectomy-induced loss of trabecular bone, resulting in BMD values in the Pio+Feno group comparable to OVX controls. Discontinuation of Pio or Feno treatment of OVX rats was associated with partial reversal of effects on bone loss or bone mass gain, respectively, while values in the Pio+Feno group remained comparable to OVX controls. These data suggest that concurrent/dual agonism of PPARγ and PPARα may reduce the negative effects of PPARγ agonism on bone mass.
Comparison of 7α-methyl-19-nortestosterone effectiveness alone or combined with progestins on androgen receptor mediated-transactivation
Authors: García-Becerra Rocío , Ordaz-Rosado David , Noé Gabriela , Chávez Bertha , Cooney Austin J , Larrea Fernando
Published: November 2011

7α-methyl-19-nortestosterone (MENT) is an androgen with potent gonadotropin inhibitory activity and prostate-sparing effects. These attributes give MENT advantages over testosterone as a male contraceptive, but, as in the case of testosterone, a partial dose-dependent suppression of spermatogenesis has been observed. Combination of testosterone or MENT with synthetic progestins improves the rate of azoospermia; however, it is unknown whether these combinations affect hormone androgenicity or exert synergistic effects via progestational or androgenic interaction. Herein, using transactivation assays, we examined the ability of MENT alone or combined with several 19-nor-derived synthetic progestins to activate androgen receptor (AR)-dependent gene transcription. In addition, the capability of 7α-methyl-estradiol (7α-methyl-E2), an aromatized metabolite of MENT, to transactivate gene transcription via estrogen receptor α (ERα; ESR1) or ERβ (ESR2) was also investigated. As expected, MENT induced gene transactivation through either the progesterone receptor (PGR) or the AR. MENT was as efficient as progesterone in activating PGR-mediated reporter gene expression, but it was ten times more potent than testosterone and dihydrotestoterone in activating of AR-driven gene expression. The addition of increasing concentrations of other 19-nortestosterone derivatives (norethisterone or levonorgestrel) did not affect, in a significant manner, the ability of MENT to activate AR-dependent reporter gene transcription. The same results were obtained with different cell lines. 7α-Methyl-E2resulted in potent estrogen activity via both ER subtypes with efficiency similar to natural E2. These results suggest that the addition of 19-nortestosterone-derived progestins, as a hormonal adjuvant in male fertility strategies for effective spermatogenic suppression, does not display any detrimental effect that would interfere with MENT androgenic transcriptional activity.
Parent Participation and Physician-Parent Communication During Informed Consent in Child Leukemia
Authors: Cousino Melissa , Hazen Rebecca , Yamokoski Amy , Miller Victoria , Zyzanski Stephen , Drotar Dennis , Kodish Eric
Published: November 2011

OBJECTIVE:

In this study we evaluated the effectiveness of a physician-directed intervention at enhancing positive physician behaviors and communication strategies during informed consent conferences (ICCs) for pediatric acute leukemia clinical trials.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Physicians at 2 large pediatric hospitals were recruited to participate in a physician-directed intervention (PDI), which included 1 full-day seminar and successive half-day booster sessions. ICCs were then observed, audiotaped, coded, and analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention. Data also were collected at 2 control sites. Between 2003 and 2007, 59 ICCs were observed and analyzed.

RESULTS:

Significant group differences were found in physician rapport-building behaviors. Physicians in the PDI + booster session group engaged in greater rapport-building than did physicians in the PDI group who did not attend booster sessions and physicians in the control group. No group differences were detected for physician partnership-building. In addition, parents in the PDI + booster session group engaged in more general communication and study-related communication, and mothers in the PDI groups asked significantly more questions per minute than did mothers in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS:

These results provide support for the effectiveness of the PDI at enhancing positive physician behaviors. Booster-session attendance is a critical component of physician-directed interventions to improve parental participation and physician-parent communication during ICCs.
Tricyclic Antidepressant Overdose in a Toddler Treated With Intravenous Lipid Emulsion
Authors: Hendron David , Menagh Gareth , Sandilands Euan A. , Scullion Damian
Published: November 2011

We report a case that involves the use of intravenous lipid emulsion as an antidote for a drug overdose involving a 20-month-old girl who had ingested a potentially lethal amount of the tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) dothiepin. The patient's condition continued to deteriorate despite implementation of standard pediatric treatment recommendations for TCA toxicity. Administration of intravenous lipid emulsion in addition to standard therapy (including sodium bicarbonate) and direct-current cardioversion for ventricular arrhythmia led to a successful outcome. The case report is followed by a review of the current evidence underlying this novel therapy and the background on its use. TCA toxicity is addressed specifically.
The Persuasive Role of Ethos in Doctor-Patient Interactions
Authors: Bigi Sarah
Published: November 2011

In “expert–to–non-expert” interactions, one of the distinguishing features is that there is none or very little shared knowledge between the subjects. This situation may become particularly challenging when the unshared knowledge is of a very technical kind, as the likeliness of misunderstandings or unsuccessful communication becomes very high. This is particularly true of interactions between patients and physicians. In the course of such interactions, physicians are expected to inform, advise and persuade patients regarding their health problems. It is especially when differences of opinion emerge that physicians need to be persuasive, but it is also then that this may become very difficult, as the patient does not share the medical expertise of the physician. At these moments, one of the most powerful means of persuasion in the hands of physicians is their professional ethos, or authority. The paper presents partial results of an ongoing research project aimed at describing the ways in which physicians construct their professional ethos in interactions with their patients, and how they use it to reconcile patients’ diverging opinions with their own. The analysis is carried out on a corpus of video recordings of doctor-patient interactions and it is aimed at identifying different persuasive strategies based on the professional ethos.
An Exploratory Study of How Trust in Health Care Institutions Varies across African American, Hispanic and white Populations
Authors: Jacobs Elizabeth , Mendenhall Emily , Scheck-McAlearney Ann , Rolle Italia , Whitaker Eric , Warnecke Richard , Ferrans Carol
Published: November 2011

Background: Minority and non-minority patients in the United States have different levels of trust in health care; however, few studies have examined how determinants of trust and distrust in health care vary across diverse groups. Objective: To explore how trust in health care institutions varies across diverse populations. Methods: We conducted 17 focus groups with 117 participants in Chicago: 9 with African American, 5 with Hispanic, and 3 with white participants. Discussions were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim and coded using grounded theory analysis to identify dominant themes. Results: We found a core set of factors that contribute to trust and distrust across racial/ethnic groups. In addition, there were unique factors that contributed to distrust among African Americans and Hispanics. Both of these groups discussed expectations of discrimination in the health care setting and African Americans discussed expectations of being experimented on as determinants of distrust. Based on these findings, we developed a hypothetical model of how different factors influence trust and distrust in health care across these different racial/ethnic groups. Conclusions: Contributors to trust and distrust in health care institutions are not always uniform across racial/ethnic groups. These differences should be addressed in future research and efforts to enhance trust in health care institutions.
Population‐level compensation impedes biological control of an invasive forb and indirect release of a native grass
Authors: Ortega Yvette K. , Pearson Dean E. , Waller Lauren P. , Sturdevant Nancy J. , Maron John L.
Published: November 2011

The intentional introduction of specialist insect herbivores for biological control of exotic weeds provides ideal but understudied systems for evaluating important ecological concepts related to top‐down control, plant compensatory responses, indirect effects, and the influence of environmental context on these processes. Centaurea stoebe (spotted knapweed) is a notorious rangeland weed that exhibited regional declines in the early 2000s, attributed to drought by some and to successful biocontrol by others. We initiated an experiment to quantify the effects of the biocontrol agent, Cyphocleonus achates, on Ce. stoebe and its interaction with a dominant native grass competitor, Pseudoroegneria spicata, under contrasting precipitation conditions. Plots containing monocultures of each plant species or equal mixtures of the two received factorial combinations of Cy. achates herbivory (exclusion or addition) and precipitation (May–June drought or “normal,” defined by the 50‐year average) for three years. Cy. achates herbivory reduced survival of adult Ce. stoebe plants by 9% overall, but this effect was stronger under normal precipitation compared to drought conditions, and stronger in mixed‐species plots compared to monocultures. Herbivory had no effect on Ce. stoebe per capita seed production or on recruitment of seedlings or juveniles. In normal‐precipitation plots of mixed composition, greater adult mortality due to Cy. achates herbivory resulted in increased recruitment of new adult Ce. stoebe. Due to this compensatory response to adult mortality, final Ce. stoebe densities did not differ between herbivory treatments regardless of context. Experimental drought reduced adult Ce. stoebe survival in mixed‐species plots but did not impede recruitment of new adults or reduce final Ce. stoebe densities, perhaps due to the limited duration of the treatment. Ce. stoebe strongly depressed P. spicata reproduction and recruitment, but these impacts were not substantively alleviated by herbivory on Ce. stoebe. Population‐level compensation by dominant plants may be an important factor inhibiting top‐down effects in herbivore‐driven and predator‐driven cascades.
Adaptive geographical clines in the growth and defense of a native plant
Authors: Woods Ellen C. , Hastings Amy P. , Turley Nash E. , Heard Stephen B. , Agrawal Anurag A.
Published: November 2011

Broad‐scale geographical gradients in the abiotic environment and interspecific interactions should select for clinal adaptation. How trait clines evolve has recently received increased attention because of anticipated climate change and the importance of rapid evolution in invasive species. This issue is particularly relevant for clines in growth and defense of plants, because both sets of traits are closely tied to fitness and because such sessile organisms experience strong local selection. Yet despite widespread recognition that growth and defense traits are intertwined, the general issue of their joint clinal evolution is not well resolved.

To address heritable clinal variation and adaptation of growth and defense traits of common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), we planted seed from 22 populations encompassing the species' latitudinal range in common gardens near the range center (New York) and toward the range edges (New Brunswick and North Carolina). Populations were differentiated in 13 traits, and six traits showed genetically based latitudinal clines. Higher‐latitude populations had earlier phenology, lower shoot biomass, more root buds and clonal growth, higher root‐to‐shoot ratio, and greater latex production. The cline in shoot biomass was consistent in all three locations. Selection on phenology was reversed in New Brunswick and North Carolina, with early genotypes favored in the north but not the south. We found no clines in foliar trichomes or toxic cardenolides. Annual precipitation of source populations explained variation in phenology, clonal growth, root‐to‐shoot ratio, and latex. Across four traits measured in New Brunswick and North Carolina, we found garden‐by‐latitude (and garden‐by‐precipitation) interactions, indicating plasticity in genetically based trait clines.

In the two gardens with substantial herbivory (New York and North Carolina), northern populations showed higher resistance to insects. Resistance to aphids was driven by trichomes and water content, while resistance to monarch caterpillars was driven by latex. However, surveys of natural populations indicated that leaf damage and insect diversity on milkweed are low at the geographical extremes (New Brunswick and North Carolina) and higher toward the range center. We speculate that milkweed plants evolved clines in growth traits in response to climate, and that this set the template for tolerance to herbivory, which subsequently shaped the evolution of defensive traits.
Radiographic Periodontal Bone Loss in Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Messier Marie‐Danielle , Emde Karin , Stern Leonard , Radhakrishnan Jai , Vernocchi Linda , Cheng Bin , Angelopoulos Christos , Papapanou Panos N.
Published: November 2011

Background: We examined the extent and severity of radiographic periodontal bone loss in patients with different stages of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and explored a potential dose–response relationship between bone loss and CKD‐related biomarkers.

Methods: Panoramic radiographs were obtained from 129 CKD patients (78 males and 51 females; mean age: 63.5 years, range: 24 to 91 years), including 63 patients undergoing dialysis for an average of 3.3 years (range: 0.5 to 14 years). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR), dialysis dose, and levels of serum biomarkers were obtained through a hospital database. Interproximal bone loss was assessed as a percentage of root length.

Results: Twenty‐nine participants were edentulous (23.8% of those on dialysis versus 21.2% of those with residual kidney function; χ2 test, P = 0.724). The extent of bone loss was higher among dialysis patients (analysis of variance [ANOVA], P = 0.007), but no clear dose–response association between CKD stage and extent was evident. GFR, dialysis dose, and levels of serum biomarkers did not differ between edentulous and dentate individuals, and only serum albumin was lower in patients with extensive bone loss (ANOVA, P = 0.030). After adjusting for dialysis status, the severity of bone loss was positively associated with glucose levels (multiple regression, P = 0.019) and white blood cell count (P = 0.032), whereas the number of teeth present was positively associated with plasma phosphorus (P = 0.008) and negatively with glucose levels (P = 0.011).

Conclusion: Despite a higher extent of bone loss in dialysis patients, the lack of a dose–response association between bone loss and CKD stage or the levels of CKD‐related serum biomarkers underscores the complex relationship between the two conditions.
Measurement of Atherosclerosis Markers in Patients With Periodontitis: A Case‐Control Study
Authors: López‐Jornet P. , Berná‐Mestre J.D. , Berná‐Serna J.D. , Camacho‐Alonso F. , Fernandez‐Millan S. , Reus‐Pintado M.
Published: November 2011

Background: It is suggested that periodontitis enhances the process of vascular inflammation leading to atherosclerosis. The present study explores the effect of periodontitis in relation to the clinical and ultrasound markers of carotid atherosclerosis.

Methods: Sixty systemically healthy patients >45 years of age (30 with chronic periodontitis and 30 without periodontitis) were studied in a university dental school. Traditional cardiovascular risk factors for atherosclerosis were evaluated. Carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) was assessed by ultrasound.

Results: The internal carotid IMT was 0.77 and 0.81 mm in the periodontal disease and control groups, respectively, with no statistically significant differences between the two groups (P = 0.538). There were significant differences in the presence of carotid atheroma plaques and the severity of periodontitis (P = 0.003). In the logistic regression analysis, significant differences in terms of age and periodontitis were recorded in relation to the presence of atheroma plaques in the carotid intima.

Conclusion: The severity of periodontitis was seen to influence the presence of carotid atheroma plaques.
Correlation between ocular pulse amplitude measured by dynamic contour tonometer and colour doppler flow imaging of the arteric retrobulbar vessels
Authors: Marjanovic Ivan , Mijajlovic Milija , Covickovic-Sternic Nadezda , Kontic Djordje , Hentova-Sencanic Paraskeva , Markovic Vujica , Bozic Marija
Published: November 2011

Introduction. An altered perfusion of the optic nerve head has been proposed
as a pathogenic factor in glaucoma. Objective. The aim of this study was to
evaluate the correlation between ocular pulse amplitude (OPA), measured by
Dynamic contour tonometer (DCT) and colour Doppler imaging (CDI) of the
arteric retro- bulbar vessels. Methods. Twenty patients older than 50 years
were examined, and divided into two equal groups. The first group comprised
of patients with normal tension glaucoma treated with topical
antiglaucomatous therapy, and the second group included patients with ocular
hypertension and glaucoma suspicious without any antiglaucomatous therapy.
Ocular pulse amplitude (OPA) was measured with DCT. CDI was also performed.
We measured haemodynamic parameters of the internal carotid artery (ICA),
ophthalmic artery (OA), central retinal artery (CRA), and posterior
ciliary arteries (PCA). Peak systolic (PSV), end- diastolic (EDV) velocities
were measured, and resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) were
calculated. Results Correlation with OPA showed indirect servitude in the RI
of the ICA, RI and PI of the CRA, in the first group; and in the PSV and EDV
of the ICA, in the RI and PI of the OA, EDV and RI of the CRA, and RI of the
PCA, in the second group Conclusion. Increase of OPA was mostly followed by
the increase of the parameters (PSV, EDV, RI, and PI) of the arteric
retrobulbar vessels in the first group; in the second group, increase of OPA
was in almost 50% of parameters followed by their decrease.
Long-term follow-up after catheter-ablation of atrioventricular junction and pacemaker implantation in patients with uncontrolled atrial fibrillation and heart failure
Authors: Mujovic Nebojsa , Grujic Miodrag , Mrdja Stevan , Kocijancic Aleksandar , Milasinovic Goran , Jovanovic Velibor , Calovic Zarko , Pavlovic Sinisa , Stojanov Petar , Raspopovic Srdjan , Mujovic Natasa , Vujisic-Tesic Bosiljka , Petrovic Milan , Petrovic Olga
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Atrioventricular (AV) junction ablation coupled with pacemaker
implantation is an effective therapeutic option for rate control in atrial
fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF). However, there is controversy
regarding the long-term outcome of the procedure, since right ventricular
stimulation can lead to left ventricular remodelling and HF. Objective. The
aim of the study was to determine a 5-year outcome of the procedure on
survival, HF control and myocardial function in patients with HF and
uncontrolled AF. Methods. All patients with AF and HF who underwent
AV-junction ablation with pacemaker implantation in our institution were
followed after the procedure. HF diagnosis was established if ?2 of the
following criteria were present: 1) ejection fraction (EF) ?45%; 2) previous
episode of congestive HF (CHF); 3) NYHA-class ?2; and 4) use of drug-therapy
for HF. Results. Study included 32 patients (25 males; 53.4?9.6 years). The
mean heart rate was 121?25 bpm before and 75?10 bpm after ablation (p=0.001).
Over the follow-up of 5.0?4.0 years nine patients (28.1%) died (five died
suddenly, three of terminal CHF and one of stroke). After the procedure, CHF
occurrence was reduced (p=0.001), as well as the annual number of
hospitalizations (p=0.001) and the number of drugs for CHF (p=0.028). In
addition, NYHA-class and EF were improved, from 3.3?0.7 to 1.6?0.8 (p<0.001)
and from 39?11% to 51?10% (p<0.001), respectively. Conclusion. In HF patients
with uncontrolled AF, 5-year mortality after AV-junction ablation and
pacemaker implantation was 28%. In the majority of these patients good rate
of AF and HF control were achieved, as well as the improvement of functional
status and myocardial contractility.
Ileocolic intussusception as a presenting sign of primary lymphoma of the colon
Authors: Nestorovic Milica , Stanojevic Goran , Brzacki Vesna , Milojkovic Vesna , Brankovic Branko , Pecic Vanja , Pesic Ivan , Smiljkovic Igor
Published: November 2011

Introduction. Intussusception is a rare phenomenon in adults. It is caused
mainly by malignant neoplasm. Primary lymphoma of the colon is a rare
malignancy of the large intestine. The association of intussusception in
adult and primary colorectal lymphoma is a diagnostic challenge, since they
occur with a variety of atypical symptoms. Case Outline. We report a case of
ileocolic intussusception in a 26-year-old man induced by primary lymphoma of
the cecum. He was admitted to our hospital for incomplete intestinal
obstruction. After thorough diagnostic work-up (plain abdominal radiography,
abdominal ultrasonography, multi-slice computerized tomography, colonoscopy
with biopsy), the patient underwent surgery. Intraoperative findings
confirmed lymphoma as the cause of intussusception. The right hemicolectomy
was carried out with end-to-side ileo-transverse anastomosis. Conclusion.
Primary colorectal lymphomas should be considered in differential diagnosis
of intussusceptions in adults. The treatment of choice is a radical resection
where all oncological standards must be fulfilled.
Histopathology of urinary bladder carcinoma: Less common variants
Authors: Damjanov Ivan , Golubovic Mileta
Published: November 2011

Bladder cancer is a common form of neoplasia which most often presents
histologically as urothelial (transitional cell) carcinoma. In this article
we review recent publications dealing with the less common variants of
urothelial carcinoma such as tumours that show unusual forms of
differentiation or the well know squamous, glandular, or sarcomatoid
differentiation. Urothelial tumours may also show several distinct growth
variants characterized by a nested, micropapillary, lymphoepithelioma-like,
or plasmacytoid and giant cell growth pattern. The clinical course of bladder
cancer varies depending on the histological type of neoplasia, grade and
stage of the tumour. High-grade muscle-invasive urothelial cancers and
tumours showing variant microscopic morphology have in general high mortality
and poor prognosis.
It Takes a Village (or an Ethnic Economy)
Authors: Park Julie J.
Published: November 2011

Ethnic economies promote interclass contact among East Asian Americans, which facilitates the exchange of information and resources through social capital networks. However, low-income Korean Americans are more likely than low-income Chinese Americans to take SAT prep, although both communities have extensive ethnic economies. In the analysis of a national dataset of first-year college students, religious affiliation and religious service attendance were positively associated with SAT prep for Korean Americans, while low socioeconomic status and lack of citizenship discouraged participation for Chinese Americans. I argue that immigrant churches facilitate interclass contact for Korean Americans, which encourages the flow of information around educational resources. Findings demonstrate how what is often stereotyped as “Asian culture” is in reality shaped by complex structural factors.
Influenza Vaccination Among Adults 65 Years or Older: A 2009–2010 Community Health Survey in the Honam Region of Korea
Authors: Ryu So Yeon , Kim So Hui , Park Hyung Su , Park Jong
Published: November 2011

The present study examined the rates and related factors for influenza vaccination among the elderly Korean population during the 2008/09 influenza seasons. We obtained data for 6,391 adults aged 65 years or older from Community Health Surveys conducted in 2009 and 2010 in 13 communities in the Honam region of Korea. A multiple logistic regression analysis was used to identify the factors associated with self-reported influenza vaccinations. In this elderly population, 81.7% reported to having received an influenza vaccination in the past year. The main contributing factors were older age, lower economic status, lower educational level, married, non-smoking, regular alcohol consumption, regular walking exercise, receiving a health check-up during the past two years, not stressed, and having comorbid conditions. The influenza vaccination coverage rate among elderly Koreans was relatively high, but improvements in vaccination rates are required.
Lidocaine Induces Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress-Associated Apoptosis in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Hong Dae Young , Kwon Kisang , Lee Kyeong Ryong , Choi Young Jin , Goo Tae-Won , Yu Kweon , Kim Seung-Whan , Kwon O-Yu
Published: November 2011

We demonstrated that upregulation of both gene expression of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress chaperones (BiP, calnexin, calreticulin, and PDI) and ER stress sensors (ATF6, IRE1 and PERK) was induced by lidocaine, a local anesthetic, in PC12 cells. In addition to gene regulation, lidocaine also induced typical ER stress phenomena such as ART6 proteolytic cleavage, eIF2 alpha phosphorylation, and XBP1 mRNA splicing. In in vivo experiments, while lidocaine downregulated gene expression of anti-apoptotic factors (Bcl-2 and Bcl-xl), pro-apoptotic factor (Bak and Bax) gene expression was upregulated. Furthermore, lidocaine induced apoptosis, as measured histochemically, and upregulated PARP1, a DNA damage repair enzyme. These results are the first to show that lidocaine induces apoptosis through ER stress in vitro and in vivo.
Characterization of a Wheat Heme Oxygenase-1 Gene and Its Responses to Different Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Xu Dao-kun , Jin Qi-jiang , Xie Yan-jie , Liu Ya-hui , Lin Yu-ting , Shen Wen-biao , Zhou Yi-jun
Published: November 2011

In animals and recently in plants, heme oxygenase-1 (HO1) has been found to confer protection against a variety of oxidant-induced cell and tissue injuries. In this study, a wheat (Triticum aestivum) HO1 gene TaHO1 was cloned and sequenced. It encodes a polypeptide of 31.7 kD with a putative N-terminal plastid transit peptide. The amino acid sequence of TaHO1 was found to be 78% similar to that of maize HO1. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that TaHO1 clusters together with the HO1-like sequences in plants. The purified recombinant TaHO1 protein expressed in Escherichia coli was active in the conversion of heme to biliverdin IXa (BV), and showed that the Vmax was 8.8 U·mg−1 protein with an apparent Km value for hemin of 3.04 μM. The optimum Tm and pH were 35 °C and 7.4, respectively. The result of subcellular localization of TaHO1 showed that the putative transit peptide was sufficient for green fluorescent protein (GFP) to localize in chloroplast and implied that TaHO1 gene product is at least localized in the chloroplast. Moreover, we found that TaHO1 mRNA could be differentially induced by the well-known nitric oxide (NO) donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP), gibberellin acid (GA), abscisic acid (ABA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and NaCl treatments. Therefore, the results suggested that TaHO1 might play an important role in abiotic stress responses.
Chemical Compositions, Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Essential Oils of Piper caninum Blume
Authors: Salleh Wan Mohd Nuzul Hakimi Wan , Ahmad Farediah , Yen Khong Heng , Sirat Hasnah Mohd
Published: November 2011

Chemical composition, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the fresh leaves and stems oils of Piper caninum were investigated. A total of forty eight constituents were identified in the leaves (77.9%) and stems (87.0%) oil which were characterized by high proportions of phenylpropanoid, safrole with 17.1% for leaves and 25.5% for stems oil. Antioxidant activities were evaluated by using β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching, DPPH radical scavenging and total phenolic content. Stems oil showed the highest inhibitory activity towards lipid peroxidation (114.9 ± 0.9%), compared to BHT (95.5 ± 0.5%), while leaves oil showed significant total phenolic content (27.4 ± 0.5 mg GA/g) equivalent to gallic acid. However, the essential oils showed weak activity towards DPPH free-radical scavenging. Evaluation of antimicrobial activity revealed that both oils exhibited strong activity against all bacteria strains with MIC values in the range 62.5 to 250 µg/mL, but weak activity against fungal strains. These findings suggest that the essential oils can be used as antioxidant and antimicrobial agents for therapeutic, nutraceutical industries and food manufactures.