bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prototype in 20th-century art
Authors: Küchler Susanne
Published: August 2010

This article examines the complex relation between science, technology and art at the close of the 19th century, which provoked a critical engagement with the notion of the prototype among modernist artists such as Duchamp, Klee, Kandinsky and Vasareli, among many others. Little attention has been given so far to the extent to which the prototype featured both as physical model and as conceptual strategy, and the way it traverses the artistic landscape of Europe in the first half of the 20th century. By drawing attention to the conscious investment of the prototypical in the art of the early 20th century, this article reflects on the concept of the prototype, whose emergent beauty signalled its impending irrelevance.
Development of a conceptual framework of positive aspects of caregiving in dementia
Authors: Carbonneau Hélène , Caron Chantal , Desrosiers Johanne
Published: August 2010

Research on family caregivers usually focuses more on stress and burden, especially in the context of looking after a person with dementia. This leads to fewer considerations of positive aspects of caregiving. Thus enhancing these positive aspects represents an innovative approach to caregivers’ support. Furthermore, these aspects need more conceptualization to underpin the development of such an approach. This article proposes a conceptual framework of the positive aspects of caregiving based on an integrative literature review. This conceptual framework provides a comprehensive model that should improve understanding of positive aspects of caregiving. It could also contribute to the development of innovative support programs based on the positive aspects instead of the negative aspects of caregiving.
Cholinesterase inhibitors and Alzheimer’s disease: Patient, carer and professional factors influencing the use of drugs for Alzheimer’s disease in the United Kingdom
Authors: Hutchings Deborah , Vanoli Allesandra , Mckeith Ian , Brotherton Sue , Mcnamee Paul , Bond John
Published: August 2010

Between 2001 and 2006 UK guidance recommended that people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease were eligible for treatment with donepezil, rivastigmine and galanatamine on the National Health Service (NHS). However, there was considerable variation in uptake of and access to treatment. This qualitative study aimed to understand which factors influence decisions to initiate, continue and discontinue treatment with the drugs. The views and experiences of 12 older people referred for memory problems or receiving treatment, 11 family carers and 16 health and social care professionals were obtained using a combination of semi-structured interviews and focus groups. Four factors outside UK guidance and prescribing budgets influence decisions to utilize the drug treatments, namely: perceptions of treatment availability and effectiveness; resource capacity; carer perceived benefits; and professional ethics. Unequal access to treatment and ethical concerns remain key issues.
Lung Cancer in HIV-Infected Patients: The Experience of an Urban Clinic
Authors: Ruiz Marco
Published: August 2010

Background: Lung cancer is one of the most common non-AIDS-defining malignancies among HIV-infected patients. Recent studies suggest that lung cancer risk is 3 to 4 times higher in HIV-infected patients than in uninfected persons after adjusting for other factors such as smoking intensity and duration. Methods: A retrospective chart review (2002-2009) was conducted in our institution. An abstraction form was used to compile data that included demographics, T-cell count, and viral loads before and at the time of diagnosis, comordibities, smoking, and use of alcohol and drugs. Results: A total of 16 patients were found. Of these, 11 (69%) patients were male and 5 (31%) female. The average age at diagnosis was 49 years (range 36-54). The Majority of patients were African American (90%). Their average CD4 counts before and at the time of diagnoses were 241 and 211 cells/mm 3, respectively. Their viral loads before and at the time of diagnosis ranged from <48 to 437 000 and <48 to 590 760 copies/mL, respectively. Adenocarcinoma was found in 67% of cases. The majority of cases (85%) were detected at advanced stages (IIIB or IV). Smoking was found in 100% of cases (average of 15-20 pack/year history), alcohol use in 70% of cases, and drug abuse in 50%. Conclusions: Lung cancer is very common in HIV-infected populations. It tends to occur at a young age, and it is usually diagnosed at very advanced stages (IIIB or IV). The main risk factors found in our study were extensive smoking history, young age, male sex, and potentially prolonged immunosuppression. Based on these results, an attempt to construct a high-risk group index might not be appropriate due to the limited number of cases studied and the need for further evaluation of the length of immunosuppression and the real impact of HIV RNA viral load in the development of lung cancer.
Severe Peripheral Neuropathy Following HAART Initiation in an HIV-Infected Patient With Leprosy
Authors: Pavie Juliette , De Castro Nathalie , Molina Jean-Michel , Flageul Beatrice
Published: August 2010

We report a case of peripheral neuropathy following highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) initiation in a patient coinfected with HIV and Mycobacterium leprae and review the literature on leprosy-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Physicians in charge of HIV-infected patients originating from countries endemic for leprosy should be aware of this risk of leprosy-associated IRIS when starting HAART.
Hepatic Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma With Lactic Acidosis in HIV-Infected Patients: Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Kestler Mary H. , Gardner Edward M. , Cohn David L.
Published: August 2010

We report 2 patients with HIV-associated non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma with massive hepatic involvement and lactic acidosis. The lactic acidosis was likely caused by excessive tumor lactate production coupled with impaired hepatic clearance. Although 1 patient died rapidly, the other survived for 7 months after receiving urgent combination chemotherapy. Clinicians should be aware of this condition and the importance of its early diagnosis and treatment.
Single-Port Laparoscopic Umbilical Hernia Repair
Authors: Roberts Kurt E. , Panait Lucian , Duffy Andrew J. , Bell Robert L.
Published: August 2010

Background. Laparoscopic umbilical herniorrhaphy is preferred when abdominal wall defects exceed 3 cm. The authors describe a novel single-port laparoscopic technique for umbilical hernia repair. Methods. A total of 10 patients underwent single-port laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair. A 10-mm endoscope with a working channel was placed in the left upper quadrant. The abdominal wall defect was covered with a circular mesh with pretied sutures and needles attached. The mesh was secured to the abdominal wall with intraabdominal sutures without the need for transfascial suture fixation. Results. The average age of the patients was 43 years, and the average BMI was 34 kg/m2. All procedures were completed laparoscopically. The mean operative time was 73 minutes. No major intraoperative or postoperative complications were encountered. Conclusions. Single-port laparoscopic umbilical hernia repair is a safe and easily reproducible novel technique. It can help reduce possible complications from multiple-port sites.
Strategy and Performance in the Spanish Hotel Industry
Authors: Pereira-Moliner Jorge , Claver-Cortés Enrique , Molina-Azorín José F.
Published: August 2010

This study uses the strategic group approach to analyze and explain why different strategies, implemented in the hotel industry, result in different performance levels. The population consists of three 5-star Spanish hotels. The authors identified five business strategies and four strategic groups in this industry. There are significant differences between the strategic groups in three out of five of the performance variables analyzed, and the different strategies affect each strategic group in a heterogeneous way. This study informs hotel managers about the competitive strategies and subsequent benefits developed within their industry. Finally, the article proposes effective business strategies hoteliers should follow to improve each performance variable, according to their strategic group.
Quantification of Emission Compounds Generated During Commercial-Scale Processing of Advanced Sclairtech TM Polyethylene
Authors: Tikuisis T. , Taylor G. , Sonnenberg K. , Cavanagh J.
Published: August 2010

In this study, the airborne concentrations of analytes of occupational health significance for workers engaged in commercial-scale processing of polyethylene were measured. Eight polyethylene resins, selected primarily from those produced using an advanced solution-phase process, were extruded under commercial-scale processing conditions appropriate to their application: blown and cast film; and blow-, injection-, and rotational-molding. Air samples were taken from operator breathing zones and representative workplace air using recognized occupational health and safety protocols. The compounds selected consisted of aldehydes (acetaldehyde, acrolein, crotonaldehyde, formaldehyde, n-valeraldehyde), ketones (acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, THF, methyl n-amyl ketone, ethyl butyl ketone, ketene), organic acids (acetic, formic, and propanoic), aromatics (benzene, toluene, xylenes), and other compounds (nitric oxide, nitrogen dioxide, ethylene oxide, ozone, carbon monoxide, paraffin wax fume). Of the 488 concentrations measured from operator breathing zones and workplace air, 466 were below sampling method detection limits. Twelve of the remaining 22 concentrations were less than 20% of the established exposure limits, and were therefore considered to present a statistically insignificant exposure risk. Five of the remaining 10 measurements consisted of ketene concentrations, which were found to be below detection limits upon retesting. The other five concentrations, of ozone, were also retested and found to be below detection limits. It is concluded that commercial-scale polyethylene extrusion presents minimal inhalation hazards in an adequately ventilated workplace.
Prediction of prestraining effect on fracture toughness of high strength structural steel by local approach
Authors: Xiao G. C. , Jing H. Y. , Xu L. Y. , Ji J. C. , Li W. L.
Published: August 2010

In the present study, the tension and fracture toughness tests on high strength structural steel of Q420 were carried out in different conditions of non-prestraining and prestraining. The results indicated that the prestrain increased the yield stress and tensile strength, but decreased the fracture toughness. Meanwhile, the local parameters m and σu controlling the brittle fracture were obtained using finite element method (FEM) analysis. Based on the Weibull stress fracture criterion, the prestraining effect on the fracture toughness was predicted from fracture toughness results of the virgin material by the local approach. The prediction was in good agreement with the experimental results. It certified that the critical Weibull stress obeys the two-parameter Weibull distribution in the local approach, and the fracture behaviour of the material with prestrain can be characterised well by the local approach.
Investigation of nanoscale precipitates developed in Al–0·73Mg–0·45Si–0·34Cu–0·21Cr–0·20Fe alloy
Authors: Abo Zeid E. F. , Gaber A.
Published: August 2010

In the present work, the developed nanoscale precipitates in Al–0·73Mg–0·45Si–0·34Cu–0·21Cr–0·20Fe (wt-%) alloy have been investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry, electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) and microhardness measurements (HV). The addition of Cu assists the formation of Q′ phase which positively changes the alloy strength. The precipitation of β′′ nanoparticles is followed by the precipitation of β′ and/or Q′ precipitates. Both coherent and semicoherent precipitates have a positive contribution to the strengthening of the alloy. The average activation energy associated with the precipitation of β(Mg2Si)+Q phases is very close to that for Q″ and/or Q′ phase which suggests that the two phase precipitation might be characterised by the same mechanism. The reaction order of the precipitation processes suggests that β′ and/or Q′ precipitates grow radially; whereas, β-precipitates grow in the three directions.
SNP discovery by high-throughput sequencing in soybean
Authors: Wu Xiaolei , Ren Chengwei , Joshi Trupti , Vuong Tri , Xu Dong , Nguyen Henry T
Published: August 2010

Background

With the advance of new massively parallel genotyping technologies, quantitative trait loci (QTL) fine mapping and map-based cloning become more achievable in identifying genes for important and complex traits. Development of high-density genetic markers in the QTL regions of specific mapping populations is essential for fine-mapping and map-based cloning of economically important genes. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the most abundant form of genetic variation existing between any diverse genotypes that are usually used for QTL mapping studies. The massively parallel sequencing technologies (Roche GS/454, Illumina GA/Solexa, and ABI/SOLiD), have been widely applied to identify genome-wide sequence variations. However, it is still remains unclear whether sequence data at a low sequencing depth are enough to detect the variations existing in any QTL regions of interest in a crop genome, and how to prepare sequencing samples for a complex genome such as soybean. Therefore, with the aims of identifying SNP markers in a cost effective way for fine-mapping several QTL regions, and testing the validation rate of the putative SNPs predicted with Solexa short sequence reads at a low sequencing depth, we evaluated a pooled DNA fragment reduced representation library and SNP detection methods applied to short read sequences generated by Solexa high-throughput sequencing technology.

Results

A total of 39,022 putative SNPs were identified by the Illumina/Solexa sequencing system using a reduced representation DNA library of two parental lines of a mapping population. The validation rates of these putative SNPs predicted with low and high stringency were 72% and 85%, respectively. One hundred sixty four SNP markers resulted from the validation of putative SNPs and have been selectively chosen to target a known QTL, thereby increasing the marker density of the targeted region to one marker per 42 K bp.

Conclusions

We have demonstrated how to quickly identify large numbers of SNPs for fine mapping of QTL regions by applying massively parallel sequencing combined with genome complexity reduction techniques. This SNP discovery approach is more efficient for targeting multiple QTL regions in a same genetic population, which can be applied to other crops.
Thaumatin-like proteins are differentially expressed and localized in phloem tissues of hybrid poplar
Authors: Dafoe Nicole J , Gowen Brent E , Constabel C Peter
Published: August 2010

Background

Two thaumatin-like proteins (TLPs) were previously identified in phloem exudate of hybrid poplar (Populus trichocarpa × P. deltoides) using proteomics methods, and their sieve element localization confirmed by immunofluorescence. In the current study, we analyzed different tissues to further understand TLP expression and localization in poplar, and used immunogold labelling to determine intracellular localization.

Results

Immunofluorescence using a TLP antiserum confirmed the presence of TLP in punctate, organelle-like structures within sieve elements. On western blots, the antiserum labeled two constitutively expressed proteins with distinct expression patterns. Immunogold labelling suggested that TLPs are associated with starch granules and starch-containing plastids in sieve elements and phloem parenchyma cells. In addition, the antiserum recognized TLPs in the inner cell wall and sieve plate region of sieve elements.

Conclusions

TLP localization in poplar cells and tissues is complex. TLP1 is expressed predominantly in tissues with a prominent vascular system such as midveins, petioles and stems, whereas the second TLP is primarily expressed in starch-storing plastids found in young leaves and the shoot apex.
Reproductive life disorders in Italian celiac women. A case-control study
Authors: Martinelli Domenico , Fortunato Francesca , Tafuri Silvio , Germinario Cinzia A , Prato Rosa
Published: August 2010

Background

The aim of this study is to explore the association between celiac disease and menstrual cycle, gestation and puerperal disorders.

Methods

The association between celiac disease and menstrual cycle, gestation and puerperal disorders in a sample of 62 childbearing age women (15-49 age) was assessed within an age and town of residence matched case-control study conducted in 2008. Main outcome measures were the presence of one or more disorders in menstrual cycle and the presence of one or more complication during pregnancy.

Results

62 celiac women (median age: 31.5, range: 17-49) and 186 healthy control (median age: 32.5, range: 15-49) were interviewed. A higher percentage of menstrual cycle disorders has been observed in celiac women. 19.4% frequency of amenorrhea was reported among celiac women versus 2.2% among healthy controls (OR = 33, 95% CI = 7.17-151.8;, p = 0.000). An association has been observed between celiac disease and oligomenorrhea, hypomenorrhea, dysmenorrhea and metrorrhagia (p < 0.05). The likelihood of having at least one complication during pregnancy has been estimated to be at least four times higher in celiac women than in healthy women (OR = 4.1, 95% CI = 2-8.6, p = 0.000). A significant correlation has emerged for celiac disease and threatened abortion, gestational hypertension, placenta abruption, severe anaemia, uterine hyperkinesia, intrauterine growth restriction (p < 0.001). A shorter gestation has on average been observed in celiac women together with a lower birth weight of celiac women babies (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The occurrence of a significant correlation between celiac disease and reproductive disorders could suggest to consider celiac disease diagnostic procedures (serological screening) in women affected by these disorders.
Reliability of computed tomography measurements in assessment of thigh muscle cross-sectional area and attenuation
Authors: Strandberg Sören , Wretling Marie-Louise , Wredmark Torsten , Shalabi Adel
Published: August 2010

Background

Advancement in technology of computer tomography (CT) and introduction of new medical imaging softwares enables easy and rapid assessment of muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) and attenuation. Before using these techniques in clinical studies there is a need for evaluation of the reliability of the measurements. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the inter- and intra-observer reliability of ImageJ in measuring thigh muscles CSA and attenuation in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury by computer tomography.

Methods

31 patients from an ongoing study of rehabilitation and muscle atrophy after ACL reconstruction were included in the study. Axial CT images with slice thickness of 10 mm at the level of 150 mm above the knee joint were analyzed by two investigators independently at two times with a minimum of 3 weeks between the two readings using NIH ImageJ. CSA and the mean attenuation of individual thigh muscles were analyzed for both legs.

Results

Mean CSA and mean attenuation values were in good agreement both when comparing the two observers and the two replicates. The inter- and intraclass correlation (ICC) was generally very high with values from 0.98 to 1.00 for all comparisons except for the area of semimembranosus. All the ICC values were significant (p < 0,001). Pearson correlation coefficients were also generally very high with values from 0.98 to 1.00 for all comparisons except for the area of semimembranosus (0.95 for intraobserver and 0.92 for interobserver).

Conclusion

This study has presented ImageJ as a method to monitor and evaluate CSA and attenuation of different muscles in the thigh using CT-imaging. The method shows an overall excellent reliability with respect to both observer and replicate.
The PI3K/Akt pathway upregulates Id1 and integrin α4 to enhance recruitment of human ovarian cancer endothelial progenitor cells
Authors: Su Yajuan , Zheng Lei , Wang Qian , Bao Jie , Cai Zhen , Liu Ailan
Published: August 2010

Background

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) contribute to tumor angiogenesis and growth. We aimed to determine whether inhibitors of differentiation 1 (Id1) were expressed in circulating EPCs of patients with ovarian cancer, whether Id1 could mediate EPCs mobilization and recruitment, and, if so, what underlying signaling pathway it used.

Methods

Circulating EPCs cultures were from 25 patients with ovarian cancer and 20 healthy control subjects. Id1 and integrin α4 expression were analyzed by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and western blot. EPCs proliferation, migration, and adhesion were detected by MTT, transwell chamber, and EPCs-matrigel adhesion assays. Double-stranded DNA containing the interference sequences were synthesized according to the structure of a pGCSIL-GFP viral vector and then inserted into a linearized vector. Positive clones were identified as lentiviral vectors that expressed human Id1 short hairpin RNA (shRNA).

Results

Id1 and integrin α4 expression were increased in EPCs freshly isolated from ovarian cancer patients compared to those obtained from healthy subjects. siRNA-mediated Id1 downregulation substantially reduced EPCs function and integrin α4 expression. Importantly, Inhibition of PI3K/Akt inhibited Id1 and integrin α4 expression, resulting in the decreasing biological function of EPCs.

Conclusions

Id1 induced EPCs mobilization and recruitment is mediated chiefly by the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and is associated with activation of integrin α4.
Hydric stress-dependent effects of Plasmodium falciparum infection on the survival of wild-caught Anopheles gambiae female mosquitoes
Authors: Aboagye-Antwi Fred , Guindo Amadou , Traoré Amadou S , Hurd Hilary , Coulibaly Mamadou , Traoré Sékou , Tripet Frédéric
Published: August 2010

Background

WhetherPlasmodium falciparum, the agent of human malaria responsible for over a million deaths per year, causes fitness costs in its mosquito vectors is a burning question that has not yet been adequately resolved. Understanding the evolutionary forces responsible for the maintenance of susceptibility and refractory alleles in natural mosquito populations is critical for understanding malaria transmission dynamics.

Methods

In natural mosquito populations,Plasmodiumfitness costs may only be expressed in combination with other environmental stress factors hence this hypothesis was tested experimentally. Wild-caught blood-fedAnopheles gambiaes.s. females of the M and S molecular form from an area endemic for malaria in Mali, West Africa, were brought to the laboratory and submitted to a 7-day period of mild hydric stress or kept with water ad-libitum. At the end of this experiment all females were submitted to intense desiccation until death. The survival of all females throughout both stress episodes, as well as their body size and infection status was recorded. The importance of stress, body size and molecular form on infection prevalence and female survival was investigated using Logistic Regression and Proportional-Hazard analysis.

Results

Females subjected to mild stress exhibited patterns of survival and prevalence of infection compatible with increased parasite-induced mortality compared to non-stressed females. Fitness costs seemed to be linked to ookinetes and early oocyst development but not the presence of sporozoites. In addition, when females were subjected to intense desiccation stress, those carrying oocysts exhibited drastically reduced survival but those carrying sporozoites were unaffected. No significant differences in prevalence of infection and infection-induced mortality were found between the M and S molecular forms ofAnopheles gambiae.

Conclusions

Because these results suggest that infected mosquitoes may incur fitness costs under natural-like conditions, they are particularly relevant to vector control strategies aiming at boosting naturally occurring refractoriness or spreading natural or foreign genes for refractoriness using genetic drive systems in vector populations.
Multiplicity of Plasmodium falciparum infection following intermittent preventive treatment in infants
Authors: Buchholz Ulrike , Kobbe Robin , Danquah Ina , Zanger Philipp , Reither Klaus , Abruquah Harry H , Grobusch Martin P , Ziniel Peter , May Jürgen , Mockenhaupt Frank P
Published: August 2010

Background

Intermittent preventive treatment in infants with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTi-SP) reduces malaria morbidity by 20% to 33%. Potentially, however, this intervention may compromise the acquisition of immunity, including the tolerance towards multiple infections with Plasmodium falciparum.

Methods

Plasmodium falciparum isolates were obtained from children participating in two Ghanaian IPTi-SP trials (Tamale, Afigya Sekyere) at 15 months of age, i.e., six months after they had received the second dose of IPTi-SP or placebo. By typing the polymorphic merozoite surface protein 1 (msp1) and msp2 genes, multiplicity of infection (MOI) was assessed in 389 isolates. A total of additional 133 samples were collected in Tamale at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of age. Comparisons of MOI between groups were done by non-parametric statistical tests.

Results

The number of distinguishable P. falciparum clones (MOI) ranged between one and six. Mean MOI in Tamale was stable at 2.13 - 2.17 during the first year of life, and increased to 2.57 at age 15 months (P = 0.01). At no age did MOI differ between the IPTi-SP and placebo groups (each, P ≥ 0.5). At 15 months of age, i.e., six months after the second dose, MOI was very similar for children who had received IPTi or placebo (means, 2.25 vs. 2.33; P = 0.55) as was the proportion of polyclonal infections (69.6% vs. 69.7%; P = 0.99). Adjusting for study site, current and prior malaria, parasite density, and season did not change this finding.

Conclusions

IPTi-SP appears to have no impact on the multiplicity of infection during infancy and thereafter. This suggests that tolerance of multiple infections, a component of protective immunity in highly endemic areas, is not affected by this intervention.
Autocrine regulation of human sperm motility by tachykinins
Authors: Pinto Francisco M , Ravina Cristina G , Subiran Nerea , Cejudo-Román Antonio , Fernández-Sánchez Manuel , Irazusta Jon , Garrido Nicolas , Candenas Luz
Published: August 2010

Background

We examined the presence and function of tachykinins and the tachykinin-degrading enzymes neprilysin (NEP) and neprilysin-2 (NEP2) in human spermatozoa.

Methods

Freshly ejaculated semen was collected from forty-eight normozoospermic human donors. We analyzed the expression of substance P, neurokinin A, neurokinin B, hemokinin-1, NEP and NEP2 in sperm cells by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), western blot and immunocytochemistry assays and evaluated the effects of the neprilysin and neprilysin-2 inhibitor phosphoramidon on sperm motility in the absence and presence of tachykinin receptor-selective antagonists. Sperm motility was measured using WHO procedures or computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA).

Results

The mRNAs of the genes that encode substance P/neurokinin A (TAC1), neurokinin B (TAC3), hemokinin-1 (TAC4), neprilysin (MME) and neprilysin-2 (MMEL1) were expressed in human sperm. Immunocytochemistry studies revealed that tachykinin and neprilysin proteins were present in spermatozoa and show specific and differential distributions. Phosphoramidon increased sperm progressive motility and its effects were reduced in the presence of the tachykinin receptor antagonists SR140333 (NK1 receptor-selective) and SR48968 (NK2 receptor-selective) but unmodified in the presence of SR142801 (NK3 receptor-selective).

Conclusion

These data show that tachykinins are present in human spermatozoa and participate in the regulation of sperm motility. Tachykinin activity is regulated, at least in part, by neprilysins.
Clinical importance and impact on the households of oseltamivir-resistant seasonal A/H1N1 influenza virus in healthy children in Italy
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Molteni Claudio Giuseppe , Daleno Cristina , Valzano Antonia , Fossali Emilio , Da Dalt Liviana , Cecinati Valerio , Bruzzese Eugenia , Giacchino Raffaella , Giaquinto Carlo , Galeone Carlotta , Lackenby Angie , Principi Nicola
Published: August 2010

A resistance of A/H1N1 influenza viruses to oseltamivir has recently emerged in a number of countries. However, the clinical and socioeconomic importance of this resistance has not been precisely defined. As children have the highest incidence of influenza infection and are at high risk of severe disease, the aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical importance and the impact on the households of oseltamivir-resistant seasonal A/H1N1 influenza virus in an otherwise healthy pediatric population. A total of 4,726 healthy children younger than 15 years with influenza-like illness were tested for influenza viruses by real-time polymerase chain reaction in the winters of 2007-2008 and 2008-2009 in Italy. The influenza A virus-positive samples underwent neuraminidase gene analysis using pyrosequencing to identify mutations H275Y and N294 S in A/H1N1, and E119V, R292K, and N294 S in A/H3N2. Among the A/H1N1 subtypes, the H275Y mutation was found in 2/126 samples taken in 2007-2008 (1.6%) and in all 17 samples (100%; p < 0.0001) taken in 2008-2009. No other mutation was identified in any of the A/H1N1 or A/H3N2 influenza viruses. No significant differences were found in terms of clinical importance or impact on the households between the children with oseltamivir-resistant seasonal A/H1N1 influenza virus and those with the wild-type. The spread of H275Y-mutated A/H1N1 seasonal influenza virus is a common phenomenon and the clinical importance and impact on the households of the mutated virus is similar to that of the wild-type in an otherwise healthy pediatric population.
Hunger and associated harms among injection drug users in an urban Canadian setting
Authors: Anema Aranka , Wood Evan , Weiser Sheri D , Qi Jiezhi , Montaner Julio SG , Kerr Thomas
Published: August 2010

Background

Food insufficiency is often associated with health risks and adverse outcomes among marginalized populations. However, little is known about correlates of food insufficiency among injection drug users (IDU).

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study to examine the prevalence and correlates of self-reported hunger in a large cohort of IDU in Vancouver, Canada. Food insufficiency was defined as reporting "I am hungry, but don't eat because I can't afford enough food". Logistic regression was used to determine independent socio-demographic and drug-use characteristics associated with food insufficiency.

Results

Among 1,053 participants, 681 (64.7%) reported being hungry and unable to afford enough food. Self-reported hunger was independently associated with: unstable housing (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.68, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.20 - 2.36, spending ≥ $50/day on drugs (AOR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.06 - 1.91), and symptoms of depression (AOR: 3.32, 95% CI: 2.45 - 4.48).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that IDU in this setting would likely benefit from interventions that work to improve access to food and social support services, including addiction treatment programs which may reduce the adverse effect of ongoing drug use on hunger.
Necessity of immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation in trauma emergency
Authors: Luciano Baitello Andre , Marcela Gonzáles Ferreira , Cesar Espada Paulo , de Godoy JoséMaria Pereira
Published: August 2010

The ability to respond quickly and effectively to a cardiac arrest situation rests on nurses being competent in the emergency life-saving procedure of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the types of trauma and survival of patients that require immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation in trauma emergencies. A total of 13301 patients treated as accident victims between July 2004 and December 2006 were evaluated in a prospective study. Patients requiring immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation at admission were identified. The type of injury and the survival of these patients were evaluated.

Of the 65 patients included in the study, 30% had suffered from gunshot wounds, 19% had been run over, 18% had been involved in car crashes, 13% in motor cycle accidents, 9% stabbings, 1% by cycle accidents and 10% other types of accidents including burns, hangings and falls. In only 12 of these patients, immediate resuscitation was successful and procedure such as chest drainage, exploratory laparotomy and interventions in the surgical center were performed. However all patients evolved to death; eight within 24 hours, two between 24 and 48 hours and the other 2 after 48 hours.

Immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation after accidents is a sign of high mortality requiring further studies to review indication and the ethical aspects involved.
Coronary artery bypass surgery in a patient with Kartagener syndrome: a case report and literature review
Authors: Bougioukas Ioannis , Mikroulis Dimitrios , Danner Bernhard , Lawal Lukman , Eleftheriadis Savvas , Bougioukas George , Didilis Vassilios
Published: August 2010

Kartagener syndrome consists of congenital bronchiectasis, sinusitis, and total situs inversus in half of the patients. A patient diagnosed with Kartagener syndrome was reffered to our department due to 3-vessel coronary disease. An off-pump coronary artery bypass operation was performed using both internal thoracic arteries and a saphenous vein graft. We performed a literature review for cases with Kartagener syndrome, coronary surgery and dextrocardia. Although a few cases of dextrocardia were found in the literature, no case of Kartagener syndrome was mentioned.
Model-based extension of high-throughput to high-content data
Authors: Pfeifer Andrea C , Kaschek Daniel , Bachmann Julie , Klingmüller Ursula , Timmer Jens
Published: August 2010

Background

High-quality quantitative data is a major limitation in systems biology. The experimental data used in systems biology can be assigned to one of the following categories: assays yielding average data of a cell population, high-content single cell measurements and high-throughput techniques generating single cell data for large cell populations. For modeling purposes, a combination of data from different categories is highly desirable in order to increase the number of observable species and processes and thereby maximize the identifiability of parameters.

Results

In this article we present a method that combines the power of high-content single cell measurements with the efficiency of high-throughput techniques. A calibration on the basis of identical cell populations measured by both approaches connects the two techniques. We develop a mathematical model to relate quantities exclusively observable by high-content single cell techniques to those measurable with high-content as well as high-throughput methods. The latter are defined as free variables, while the variables measurable with only one technique are described in dependence of those. It is the combination of data calibration and model into a single method that makes it possible to determine quantities only accessible by single cell assays but using high-throughput techniques. As an example, we apply our approach to the nucleocytoplasmic transport of STAT5B in eukaryotic cells.

Conclusions

The presented procedure can be generally applied to systems that allow for dividing observables into sets of free quantities, which are easily measurable, and variables dependent on those. Hence, it extends the information content of high-throughput methods by incorporating data from high-content measurements.
Review of Alzheimer's disease scales: is there a need for a new multi-domain scale for therapy evaluation in medical practice?
Authors: Robert Philippe , Ferris Steven , Gauthier Serge , Ihl Ralf , Winblad Bengt , Tennigkeit Frank
Published: August 2010

Introduction

The present review of Alzheimer's disease (AD) rating scales aims to outline the need for a new rating scale to be used in routine clinical practice for long-term medical care of AD patients. An ideal scale would be: 1) practical, easy and quick to administer for an experienced clinician; 2) validated for AD; 3) multi-domain: covering the AD-relevant areas of cognition, activities of daily living, behavior, communication/social interaction, and quality of life; 4) applicable to all AD severity stages; 5) able to monitor disease progression; and 6) sensitive to measure therapy effects.

Methods

The National Library of Medicines' MEDLINE database was searched for the years 1981 to September 2008, using a set of keywords aiming to select instruments which cover at least some of the requirements for an ideal practical AD scale for therapy evaluation. Measures for AD staging and screening tests were not considered for review.

Results

Of 1,902 articles resulting from the literature search, 68 relevant AD scales were identified. Most of them were scales that predominantly measure the severity of major dysfunctions in particular AD domains. Only five scales met some of the requirements for a practical multi-domain AD scale, but did not possess all required characteristics.

Conclusions

Despite the multitude of AD scales for various purposes, there remains a need for a new multi-domain and easy to administer AD scale for assessment of disease progression and response to therapy in daily medical practice.
Predictive painting of 3D seismic volumes
Authors: Fomel Sergey
Published: August 2010

Predictive painting is a numerical algorithm that spreads information in 3D volumes according to the local structure of seismic events. The algorithm consists of two steps. First, local spatially variable inline and crossline slopes of seismic events are estimated by the plane-wave-destruction method. Next, a seed trace is inserted in the volume, and the information contained in that trace is spread inside the volume, thus automatically “painting” the data space. Immediate applications of this technique include automatic horizon picking and flattening in applications to both prestack and poststack seismic data analysis. Synthetic and field data tests demonstrate the effectiveness of predictive painting.
Osteoclastic Metabolism of 25(OH)-Vitamin D3: A Potential Mechanism for Optimization of Bone Resorption
Authors: Kogawa Masakazu , Findlay David M. , Anderson Paul H. , Ormsby Renee , Vincent Cristina , Morris Howard A. , Atkins Gerald J.
Published: August 2010

The extrarenal synthesis of 1α,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 (1,25D) has been demonstrated in a number of cell types including osteoblasts and cells of the monocyte/macrophage lineage. The skeleton appears responsive to serum levels of the 1,25D precursor, 25 hydroxyvitamin D3 (25D), in terms of bone mineralization parameters. The effect of metabolism of 25D into active 1,25D by osteoclast lineage cells is unknown. We found that CYP27B1 mRNA expression increased with exposure of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) to macrophage colony-stimulating factor in the presence or absence of receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand. Consistent with this, human osteoclast cultures incubated with 25D produced measurable quantities of 1,25D. Osteoclast formation from either mouse RAW264.7 cells or human PBMCs in the presence of physiological concentrations of 25D resulted in significant up-regulation of the key osteoclast transcription factor, nuclear factor of activated T cells-c1 in PBMCs and a number of key osteoclast marker genes in both models. The expression of the osteoblast coupling factor, ephrin-b2, was also increased in the presence of 25D. Levels of CYP27B1 and nuclear factor of activated T cells-1 mRNA correlated during osteoclastogenesis and also in a cohort of human bone samples. CYP27B1 short-hairpin RNA knockdown in RAW264.7 cells decreased their osteoclastogenic potential. 25D dose dependently reduced the resorptive capacity of PBMC-derived osteoclasts without compromising cell viability. 25D also reduced resorption by RAW264.7- and giant cell tumor-derived osteoclasts. Conversely, osteoclasts formed from vitamin D receptor-null mouse splenocytes had increased resorptive activity compared with wild-type cells. We conclude that 25D metabolism is an important intrinsic mechanism for optimizing osteoclast differentiation, ameliorating osteoclast activity, and potentially promoting the coupling of bone resorption to formation.
Defective Gonadotropin-Dependent Ovarian Folliculogenesis and Granulosa Cell Gene Expression in Inhibin-Deficient Mice
Authors: Nagaraja Ankur K. , Middlebrook Brooke S. , Rajanahally Saneal , Myers Michelle , Li Qinglei , Matzuk Martin M. , Pangas Stephanie A.
Published: August 2010

Inhibin-α knockout (Inha−/−) female mice develop sex cord-stromal ovarian cancer with complete penetrance and previous studies demonstrate that the pituitary gonadotropins (FSH and LH) are influential modifiers of granulosa cell tumor development and progression in inhibin-deficient females. Recent studies have demonstrated that Inha−/− ovarian follicles develop precociously to the early antral stage in prepubertal mice without any increase in serum FSH. These studies suggest that in the absence of inhibins, granulosa cells differentiate abnormally and thus at sexual maturity may undergo an abnormal response to gonadotropin signaling contributing to tumor development. To test this hypothesis, we stimulated immature wild-type and Inha−/− female mice with gonadotropin analogs prior to tumor formation and subsequently examined gonadotropin-induced ovarian follicle development as well as preovulatory and human chorionic gonadotropin-induced gene expression changes in granulosa cells. We find that at 3 wk of age, inhibin-deficient ovaries do not show further antral development or undergo cumulus expansion. In addition, there are widespread alterations in the transcriptome of gonadotropin-treated Inha−/− granulosa cells, with significant changes in genes involved in extracellular matrix and cell-cell communication. These data indicate the gonadotropins initiate an improper program of cell differentiation prior to tumor formation in the absence of inhibins.
Tissue Distribution and Cardiac Metabolism of 3-Iodothyronamine
Authors: Saba Alessandro , Chiellini Grazia , Frascarelli Sabina , Marchini Maja , Ghelardoni Sandra , Raffaelli Andrea , Tonacchera Massimo , Vitti Paolo , Scanlan Thomas S. , Zucchi Riccardo
Published: August 2010

3-Iodothyronamine (T1AM) is a novel relative of thyroid hormone, able to interact with specific G protein-coupled receptors, known as trace amine-associated receptors. Significant functional effects are produced by exogenous T1AM, including a negative inotropic and chronotropic effect in cardiac preparations. This work was aimed at estimating endogenous T1AM concentration in different tissues and determining its cardiac metabolism. A novel HPLC tandem mass spectrometry assay was developed, allowing detection of T1AM, thyronamine, 3-iodothyroacetic acid, and thyroacetic acid. T1AM was detected in rat serum, at the concentration of 0.3 ± 0.03 pmol/ml, and in all tested organs (heart, liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, stomach, lung, and brain), at concentrations significantly higher than the serum concentration, ranging from 5.6 ± 1.5 pmol/g in lung to 92.9 ± 28.5 pmol/g in liver. T1AM was also identified for the first time in human blood. In H9c2 cardiomyocytes and isolated perfused rat hearts, significant Na+-dependent uptake of exogenous T1AM was observed, and at the steady state total cellular or tissue T1AM concentration exceeded extracellular concentration by more than 20-fold. In both preparations T1AM underwent oxidative deamination to 3-iodothyroacetic acid. T1AM deamination was inhibited by iproniazid but not pargyline or semicarbazide, suggesting the involvement of both monoamine oxidase and semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidase. Thyronamine and thyroacetic acid were not detected in heart. Finally, evidence of T1AM production was observed in cardiomyocytes exposed to exogenous thyroid hormone, although the activity of this pathway was very low.
C1q/TNF-Related Protein-3 Represents a Novel and Endogenous Lipopolysaccharide Antagonist of the Adipose Tissue
Authors: Kopp Andrea , Bala Margarita , Buechler Christa , Falk Werner , Gross Philipp , Neumeier Markus , Schölmerich Jürgen , Schäffler Andreas
Published: August 2010

Proteins secreted by adipocytes (adipokines) play an important role in the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes mellitus and the associated chronic and low-grade state of inflammation. It was the aim to characterize the antiinflammatory potential of the new adipocytokine, C1q/TNF-related protein-3 (CTRP-3), which shows structural homologies to the pleiotropic adipocytokine adiponectin. mRNA and protein expression of CTRP-3 was analyzed by RT-PCR and Western blot. Recombinant CTRP-3 and small interfering RNA-based strategies were used to investigate the effect of CTRP-3 on toll-like receptor (TLR) ligand, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-, and lauric acid-induced chemokine release of monocytes and adipocytes. Together with complex ELISA-based techniques, a designed TLR4/myeloid differentiation protein-2 fusion molecule shown to bind LPS was used to prove the ability of CTRP-3 to act as endogenous LPS antagonist. CTRP-3 is synthesized in monocytes and adipocytes. The recombinant protein dose-dependently inhibits the release of chemokines in monocytes and adipocytes that were induced by lauric acid, LPS, and other TLR ligands in vitro and ex vivo. CTRP-3 inhibits monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 release in adipocytes, whereas small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of CTRP-3 up-regulates monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 release, reduces lipid droplet size, and decreases intracellular triglyceride concentration in adipocytes, causing a dedifferentiation into a more proinflammatory and immature phenotype. By using a designed TLR4/MD-2 fusion molecule, it is shown by different techniques that CTRP-3 specifically and effectively inhibits the binding of LPS to its receptor, TLR4/MD-2. CTRP-3 inhibits three basic and common proinflammatory pathways involved in obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (adipo-inflammation) by acting as an endogenous LPS antagonist of the adipose tissue.