bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KIT-D816V–independent oncogenic signaling in neoplastic cells in systemic mastocytosis: role of Lyn and Btk activation and disruption by dasatinib and bosutinib
Authors: Gleixner Karoline V. , Mayerhofer Matthias , Cerny-Reiterer Sabine , Hörmann Gregor , Rix Uwe , Bennett Keiryn L. , Hadzijusufovic Emir , Meyer Renata A. , Pickl Winfried F. , Gotlib Jason , Horny Hans-Peter , Reiter Andreas , Mitterbauer-Hohendanner Gerlinde , Superti-Furga Giulio , Valent Peter
Published: June 2011

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) either presents as a malignant neoplasm with short survival or as an indolent disease with normal life expectancy. In both instances, neoplastic mast cells (MCs) harbor D816V-mutated KIT, suggesting that additional oncogenic mechanisms are involved in malignant transformation. We here describe that Lyn and Btk are phosphorylated in a KIT-independent manner in neoplastic MCs in advanced SM and in the MC leukemia cell line HMC-1. Lyn and Btk activation was not only detected in KIT D816V-positive HMC-1.2 cells, but also in the KIT D816V-negative HMC-1.1 subclone. Moreover, KIT D816V did not induce Lyn/Btk activation in Ba/F3 cells, and deactivation of KIT D816V by midostaurin did not alter Lyn/Btk activation. siRNAs against Btk and Lyn were found to block survival in neoplastic MCs and to cooperate with midostaurin in producing growth inhibition. Growth inhibitory effects were also obtained with 2 targeted drugs, dasatinib which blocks KIT, Lyn, and Btk activation in MCs, and bosutinib, a drug that deactivates Lyn and Btk without blocking KIT activity. Together, KIT-independent signaling via Lyn/Btk contributes to growth of neoplastic MCs in advanced SM. Dasatinib and bosutinib disrupt Lyn/Btk-driven oncogenic signaling in neoplastic MC, which may have clinical implications and explain synergistic drug interactions.
IL-7R expression and IL-7 signaling confer a distinct phenotype on developing human B-lineage cells
Authors: Nodland Sonja E. , Berkowska Magdalena A. , Bajer Anna A. , Shah Nisha , de Ridder Dick , van Dongen Jacques J. M. , LeBien Tucker W. , van Zelm Menno C.
Published: June 2011

IL-7 is an important cytokine for lymphocyte differentiation. Similar to what occurs in vivo, human CD19+ cells developing in human/murine xenogeneic cultures show differential expression of the IL-7 receptor α (IL-7Rα) chain (CD127). We now describe the relationship between CD127 expression/signaling and Ig gene rearrangement. In the present study, < 10% of CD19+CD127+ and CD19+CD127− populations had complete VDJH rearrangements. IGH locus conformation measurements by 3D FISH revealed that CD127+ and CD127− cells were less contracted than pediatric BM pro-B cells that actively rearrange the IGH locus. Complete IGH rearrangements in CD127+ and CD127− cells had smaller CDR3 lengths and fewer N-nucleotide insertions than pediatric BM B-lineage cells. Despite the paucity of VDJH rearrangements, microarray analysis indicated that CD127+ cells resembled large pre-B cells, which is consistent with their low level of Ig light-chain rearrangements. Unexpectedly, CD127− cells showed extensive Ig light-chain rearrangements in the absence of IGH rearrangements and resembled small pre-B cells. Neutralization of IL-7 in xenogeneic cultures led to an increase in Ig light-chain rearrangements in CD127+ cells, but no change in complete IGH rearrangements. We conclude that IL-7–mediated suppression of premature Ig light-chain rearrangement is the most definitive function yet described for IL-7 in human B-cell development.
Key pathways are frequently mutated in high-risk childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: a report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Zhang Jinghui , Mullighan Charles G. , Harvey Richard C. , Wu Gang , Chen Xiang , Edmonson Michael , Buetow Kenneth H. , Carroll William L. , Chen I-Ming , Devidas Meenakshi , Gerhard Daniela S. , Loh Mignon L. , Reaman Gregory H. , Relling Mary V. , Camitta Bruce M. , Bowman W. Paul , Smith Malcolm A. , Willman Cheryl L. , Downing James R. , Hunger Stephen P.
Published: June 2011

We sequenced 120 candidate genes in 187 high-risk childhood B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemias, the largest pediatric cancer genome sequencing effort reported to date. Integrated analysis of 179 validated somatic sequence mutations with genome-wide copy number alterations and gene expression profiles revealed a high frequency of recurrent somatic alterations in key signaling pathways, including B-cell development/differentiation (68% of cases), the TP53/RB tumor suppressor pathway (54%), Ras signaling (50%), and Janus kinases (11%). Recurrent mutations were also found in ETV6 (6 cases), TBL1XR1 (3), CREBBP (3), MUC4 (2), ASMTL (2), and ADARB2 (2). The frequency of mutations within the 4 major pathways varied markedly across genetic subtypes. Among 23 leukemias expressing a BCR-ABL1-like gene expression profile, 96% had somatic alterations in B-cell development/differentiation, 57% in JAK, and 52% in both pathways, whereas only 9% had Ras pathway mutations. In contrast, 21 cases defined by a distinct gene expression profile coupled with focal ERG deletion rarely had B-cell development/differentiation or JAK kinase alterations but had a high frequency (62%) of Ras signaling pathway mutations. These data extend the range of genes that are recurrently mutated in high-risk childhood B-precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia and highlight important new therapeutic targets for selected patient subsets.
FFCA: a feasibility-based method for flux coupling analysis of metabolic networks
Authors: David Laszlo , Marashi Sayed-Amir , Larhlimi Abdelhalim , Mieth Bettina , Bockmayr Alexander
Published: June 2011

Background

Flux coupling analysis (FCA) is a useful method for finding dependencies between fluxes of a metabolic network at steady-state. FCA classifies reactions into subsets (called coupled reaction sets) in which activity of one reaction implies activity of another reaction. Several approaches for FCA have been proposed in the literature.

Results

We introduce a new FCA algorithm, FFCA (Feasibility-based Flux Coupling Analysis), which is based on checking the feasibility of a system of linear inequalities. We show on a set of benchmarks that for genome-scale networks FFCA is faster than other existing FCA methods.

Conclusions

We present FFCA as a new method for flux coupling analysis and prove it to be faster than existing approaches. A corresponding software tool is freely available for non-commercial use at http://www.bioinformatics.org/ffca/.
MotifClick: prediction of cis-regulatory binding sites via merging cliques
Authors: Zhang Shaoqiang , Li Shan , Niu Meng , Pham Phuc T , Su Zhengchang
Published: June 2011

Background

Although dozens of algorithms and tools have been developed to find a set of cis-regulatory binding sites called a motif in a set of intergenic sequences using various approaches, most of these tools focus on identifying binding sites that are significantly different from their background sequences. However, some motifs may have a similar nucleotide distribution to that of their background sequences. Therefore, such binding sites can be missed by these tools.

Results

Here, we present a graph-based polynomial-time algorithm, MotifClick, for the prediction of cis-regulatory binding sites, in particular, those that have a similar nucleotide distribution to that of their background sequences. To find binding sites with length k, we construct a graph using some 2(k-1)-mers in the input sequences as the vertices, and connect two vertices by an edge if the maximum number of matches of the local gapless alignments between the two 2(k-1)-mers is greater than a cutoff value. We identify a motif as a set of similar k-mers from a merged group of maximum cliques associated with some vertices.

Conclusions

When evaluated on both synthetic and real datasets of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, MotifClick outperforms existing leading motif-finding tools for prediction accuracy and balancing the prediction sensitivity and specificity in general. In particular, when the distribution of nucleotides of binding sites is similar to that of their background sequences, MotifClick is more likely to identify the binding sites than the other tools.
NDRG2 inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma adhesion, migration and invasion by regulating CD24 expression
Authors: Zheng Jin , Li Yan , Yang Jiandong , Liu Qiang , Shi Ming , Zhang Rui , Shi Hengjun , Ren Qinyou , Ma Ji , Guo Hang , Tao Yurong , Xue Yan , Jiang Ning , Yao Libo , Liu Wenchao
Published: June 2011

Background

The prognosis of most hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients is poor due to the high metastatic rate of the disease. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying HCC metastasis is extremely urgent. The role of CD24 and NDRG2 (N-myc downstream-regulated gene 2), a candidate tumor suppressor gene, has not yet been explored in HCC.

Methods

The mRNA and protein expression of CD24 and NDRG2 was analyzed in MHCC97H, Huh7 and L-02 cells. Changes in cell adhesion, migration and invasion were detected by up- or down-regulating NDRG2 by adenovirus or siRNA. The expression pattern of NDRG2 and CD24 in HCC tissues and the relationship between NDRG2 and HCC clinical features was analyzed by immunohistochemical and western blotting analysis.

Results

NDRG2 expression was negatively correlated with malignancy in HCC. NDRG2 exerted anti-tumor activity by regulating CD24, a molecule that mediates cell-cell interaction, tumor proliferation and adhesion. NDRG2 up-regulation decreased CD24 expression and cell adhesion, migration and invasion. By contrast, NDRG2 down-regulation enhanced CD24 expression and cell adhesion, migration and invasion. Immunohistochemical analysis of 50 human HCC clinical specimens showed a strong correlation between NDRG2 down-regulation and CD24 overexpression (P = 0.04). In addition, increased frequency of NDRG2 down-regulation was observed in patients with elevated AFP serum level (P = 0.006), late TNM stage (P = 0.009), poor differentiation grade (P = 0.002), tumor invasion (P = 0.004) and recurrence (P = 0.024).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that NDRG2 and CD24 regulate HCC adhesion, migration and invasion. The expression level of NDRG2 is closely related to the clinical features of HCC. Thus, NDRG2 plays an important physiological role in HCC metastasis.
'The girl with her period is the one to hang her head' Reflections on menstrual management among schoolgirls in rural Kenya
Authors: McMahon Shannon A , Winch Peter J , Caruso Bethany A , Obure Alfredo F , Ogutu Emily A , Ochari Imelda A , Rheingans Richard D
Published: June 2011

Background

The onset of menstruation is a landmark event in the life of a young woman. Yet the complications and challenges that can accompany such an event have been understudied, specifically in resource-poor settings. As interventions aim to improve female attendance in schools, it is important to explore how menstruation is perceived and navigated by girls in the school setting. This research conveys rural Kenyan schoolgirls' perceptions and practices related to menstruation

Methods

Data were collected at six rural schools in the Nyanza Province of Western Kenya. Using focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, and field notes from observations, researchers collected information from 48 primary schoolgirls and nine teachers. Systematic analysis began with a reading of transcripts and debriefing notes, followed by manual coding of the narratives.

Results

Focus group discussions became opportunities for girls to share thoughts on menstruation, instruct one another on management practices and advise one another on coping mechanisms. Girls expressed fear, shame, distraction and confusion as feelings associated with menstruation. These feelings are largely linked to a sense of embarrassment, concerns about being stigmatized by fellow students and, as teachers explained, a perception that the onset of menstruation signals the advent of a girl's sexual status. Among the many methods for managing their periods, girls most frequently said they folded, bunched up or sewed cloth, including cloth from shirts or dresses, scraps of old cloth, or strips of an old blanket. Cloth was reported to frequently leak and cause chafing, which made school attendance difficult particularly as the day progressed. Attitudes and practices of girls toward menstruation have been arranged into personal, environmental and behavioural factors.

Conclusion

Further research on menstrual management options that are practical, sustainable and culturally acceptable must be conducted to inform future programs and policies that aim to empower young girls as they transition into womanhood. Stakeholders working within this and similar contexts must consider systematic mechanisms to explain to young girls what menstruation is and how to manage it. Providing sanitary supplies or guiding girls on how to create supplies serve as critical components for future interventions.
Factors associated with female genital mutilation in Burkina Faso and its policy implications
Authors: Karmaker Bue , Kandala Ngianga-Bakwin , Chung Donna , Clarke Aileen
Published: June 2011

Background

Female genital mutilation (FGM) usually undertaken between the ages of 1-9 years and is widely practised in some part of Africa and by migrants from African countries in other parts of the world. Laws prohibit FGM in almost every country. FGM can cause immediate complications (pain, bleeding and infection) and delayed complications (sexual, obstetric, psychological problems). Several factors have been associated with an increased likelihood of FGM. In Burkina Faso, the prevalence of FGM appears to have increased in recent years.

Methods

We investigated social, demographic and economic factors associated with FGM in Burkina Faso using the 2003 Demographic Health Survey (DHS). The DHS is a nationally representative cross-sectional survey (multistage stratified random sampling of households) of women of reproductive age (15-49 years). Associations between potential risk factors and the prevalence of FGM were explored using χ2 and t-tests and Mann Whitney U-test as appropriate. Logistic regression modelling was used to investigate social, demographic and economic risk factors associated with FGM.

Main outcome measures

i) whether a woman herself had had FGM; ii) whether she had one or more daughters with FGM.

Results

Data were available on 12,049 women. Response rates by region were at least 90%. Women interviewed were representative of the underlying populations of the different regions of Burkina Faso. Seventy seven percent (9267) of the women interviewed had had FGM. 7336 women had a daughter of whom 2216 (30.2%) had a daughter with FGM and 334 (4.5%) said that they intended that their daughter should have it. Univariate analysis showed that age, religion, wealth, ethnicity, literacy, years of education, household affluence, region and who had responsibility for health care decisions in the household had (RHCD) were all significantly related to the two outcomes (p < 0.01). Multivariate analysis stratified by religion mainly confirmed these findings, however, education is significantly associated with a reduced likelihood of FGM only for Christian women.

Conclusions and Policy implications

Factors associated with FGM are varied and complex. Younger women and those from specific groups and religions are less likely to have had FGM. A higher level of education may be protective for women from certain religions. Policies should capitalize on these findings and religious leaders should be involved in continuing programmes of action.
High frequency of chlamydial co-infections in clinically healthy sheep flocks
Authors: Lenzko Hannah , Moog Udo , Henning Klaus , Lederbach Robert , Diller Roland , Menge Christian , Sachse Konrad , Sprague Lisa D
Published: June 2011

Background

The epidemiological situation of ovine chlamydial infections in continental Europe, especially Germany is poorly characterised. Using the German state of Thuringia as a model example, the chlamydial sero- and antigen prevalence was estimated in thirty-two randomly selected sheep flocks with an average abortion rate lower than 1%. Seven vaccinated flocks were reviewed separately.

Results

A wide range of samples from 32 flocks were examined. Assumption of a seroprevalence of 10% (CI 95%) at flock level, revealed that 94% of the tested flocks were serologically positive with ongoing infection (i.e. animals with seroconversion) in nearly half (47%) of the flocks. On the basis of an estimated 25% antigen prevalence (CI 95%), PCR and DNA microarray testing, together with sequencing revealed the presence of chlamydiae in 78% of the flocks. The species most frequently found was Chlamydophila (C.) abortus (50%) followed by C. pecorum (47%) and C. psittaci genotype A (25%). Mixed infections occurred in 25% of the tested flocks. Samples obtained from the vaccinated flocks revealed the presence of C. abortus field samples in 4/7 flocks. C. pecorum was isolated from 2/7 flocks and the presence of seroconversion was determined in 3/7 flocks.

Conclusions

The results imply that chlamydial infections occur frequently in German sheep flocks, even in the absence of elevated abortion rates. The fact that C. pecorum and the potentially zoonotic C. psittaci were found alongside the classical abortifacient agent C. abortus, raise questions about the significance of this reservoir for animal and human health and underline the necessity for regular monitoring. Further studies are needed to identify the possible role of C. psittaci infections in sheep.
Intensity modulated radiotherapy for elderly bladder cancer patients
Authors: Hsieh Chen-Hsi , Chung Shiu-Dong , Chan Pei-Hui , Lai Siu-Kai , Chang Hsiao-Chun , Hsiao Chi-Huang , Wu Le-Jung , Chong Ngot-Swan , Chen Yu-Jen , Wang Li-Ying , Hsieh Yen-Ping , Shueng Pei-Wei
Published: June 2011

Background

To review our experience and evaluate treatment planning using intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) and helical tomotherapy (HT) for the treatment of elderly patients with bladder cancer.

Methods

From November 2006 through November 2009, we enrolled 19 elderly patients with histologically confirmed bladder cancer, 9 in the IMRT and 10 in the HT group. The patients received 64.8 Gy to the bladder with or without concurrent chemotherapy. Conventional 4-field "box" pelvic radiation therapy (2DRT) plans were generated for comparison.

Results

The median patient age was 80 years old (range, 65-90 years old). The median survival was 21 months (5 to 26 months). The actuarial 2-year overall survival (OS) for the IMRT vs. the HT group was 26.3% vs .37.5%, respectively; the corresponding values for disease-free survival were 58.3% vs. 83.3%, respectively; for locoregional progression-free survival (LRPFS), the values were 87.5% vs. 83.3%, respectively; and for metastases-free survival, the values were 66.7% vs. 60.0%, respectively. The 2-year OS rates for T1, 2 vs. T3, 4 were 66.7% vs. 35.4%, respectively (p = 0.046). The 2-year OS rate was poor for those whose RT completion time greater than 8 weeks when compared with the RT completed within 8 wks (37.9% vs. 0%, p = 0.004).

Conclusion

IMRT and HT provide good LRPFS with tolerable toxicity for elderly patients with invasive bladder cancer. IMRT and HT dosimetry and organ sparing capability were superior to that of 2DRT, and HT provides better sparing ability than IMRT. The T category and the RT completion time influence OS rate.
Molecular Genetic Analysis of the PLP1 Gene in 38 Families with PLP1-related disorders: Identification and Functional Characterization of 11 Novel PLP1 Mutations
Authors: Grossi Serena , Regis Stefano , Biancheri Roberta , Mort Matthew , Lualdi Susanna , Bertini Enrico , Uziel Graziella , Boespflug-Tanguy Odile , Simonati Alessandro , Corsolini Fabio , Demir Ercan , Marchiani Valentina , Percesepe Antonio , Stanzial Franco , Rossi Andrea , Vaurs-Barrière Catherine , Cooper David N , Filocamo Mirella
Published: June 2011

Background

The breadth of the clinical spectrum underlying Pelizaeus-Merzbacher disease and spastic paraplegia type 2 is due to the extensive allelic heterogeneity in the X-linked PLP1 gene encoding myelin proteolipid protein (PLP). PLP1 mutations range from gene duplications of variable size found in 60-70% of patients to intragenic lesions present in 15-20% of patients.

Methods

Forty-eight male patients from 38 unrelated families with a PLP1-related disorder were studied. All DNA samples were screened for PLP1 gene duplications using real-time PCR. PLP1 gene sequencing analysis was performed on patients negative for the duplication. The mutational status of all 14 potential carrier mothers of the familial PLP1 gene mutation was determined as well as 15/24 potential carrier mothers of the PLP1 duplication.

Results and Conclusions

PLP1 gene duplications were identified in 24 of the unrelated patients whereas a variety of intragenic PLP1 mutations were found in the remaining 14 patients. Of the 14 different intragenic lesions, 11 were novel; these included one nonsense and 7 missense mutations, a 657-bp deletion, a microdeletion and a microduplication. The functional significance of the novel PLP1 missense mutations, all occurring at evolutionarily conserved residues, was analysed by the MutPred tool whereas their potential effect on splicing was ascertained using the Skippy algorithm and a neural network. Although MutPred predicted that all 7 novel missense mutations would be likely to be deleterious, in silico analysis indicated that four of them (p.Leu146Val, p.Leu159Pro, p.Thr230Ile, p.Ala247Asp) might cause exon skipping by altering exonic splicing elements. These predictions were then investigated in vitro for both p.Leu146Val and p.Thr230Ile by means of RNA or minigene studies and were subsequently confirmed in the case of p.Leu146Val. Peripheral neuropathy was noted in four patients harbouring intragenic mutations that altered RNA processing, but was absent from all PLP1-duplication patients. Unprecedentedly, family studies revealed the de novo occurrence of the PLP1 duplication at a frequency of 20%.
Field evaluation of the intermittent preventive treatment of malaria during pregnancy (IPTp) in Benin: evolution of the coverage rate since its implementation
Authors: d'Almeida Tania CDA , Agboton-Zoumenou Marie-Agnès , Garcia André , Massougbodji Achille , Briand Valérie , Imorou Yacoubou , Cottrell Gilles
Published: June 2011

Background

Malaria is an important public health problem in Africa. Pregnant women are a vulnerable population and this disease can underlie an increased risk of low-birth weight newborns (< 2500 g); these women therefore need management during pregnancy. This was previously provided by chloroquine treatment, which, because of compliance problems and drug resistance, was replaced by intermittent preventive treatment with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (ITPp-SP) with two single doses taken after 16 weeks of amenorrhea, at least 4 weeks apart. This protocol was recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1998 and was initiated in Benin in 2006 after its political adoption in 2004.

A retrospective longitudinal study was conducted in eight maternity hospitals in two geographical areas in Benin (in the south and north). The study investigated 2420 women who gave birth from 2005 to 2009. The antenatal cards of those women were randomly selected over 5 years with the aim of analyzing the IPT coverage in the study's maternity hospitals.

Results

The rate of IPT-SP coverage evolved from 3.7% in 2005 to 87.8% in 2009 for women who had received at least one dose and from 2.7% to 68.4% from 2005 to 2009 for those who had received complete ITP (two doses). Variability in the results was observed depending on the geographical area (north/south) and the type of area (rural/urban).

Conclusions

In total, application of IPT-SP 2-doses has rapidly evolved since 2005, but the objective of 80% IPT coverage has not yet been achieved throughout the country. Moreover, problems of drug shortage recurring in the field (reported by health staff) remain to be resolved.
Abnormal networks of immune response-related molecules in bone marrow cells from patients with rheumatoid arthritis as revealed by DNA microarray analysis
Authors: Lee Hooi-Ming , Sugino Hidehiko , Aoki Chieko , Shimaoka Yasunori , Suzuki Ryuji , Ochi Kensuke , Ochi Takahiro , Nishimoto Norihiro
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease characterized by chronic synovitis that progresses to destruction of cartilage and bone. Bone marrow (BM) cells have been shown to contribute to this pathogenesis. In this study, we compared differentially expressed molecules in BM cells from RA and osteoarthritis (OA) patients and analyzed abnormal regulatory networks to identify the role of BM cells in RA.

Methods

Gene expression profiles (GEPs) in BM-derived mononuclear cells from 9 RA and 10 OA patients were obtained by DNA microarray. Up- and down-regulated genes were identified by comparing the GEPs from the two patient groups. Bioinformatics was performed by Expression Analysis Systemic Explorer (EASE) 2.0 based on gene ontology, followed by network pathway analysis with Ingenuity Pathways Analysis (IPA) 7.5.

Results

The BM mononuclear cells showed 764 up-regulated and 1,910 down-regulated genes in RA patients relative to the OA group. EASE revealed that the gene category response to external stimulus, which included the gene category immune response, was overrepresented by the up-regulated genes. So too were the gene categories signal transduction and phosphate metabolism. Down-regulated genes were dominantly classified in three gene categories: cell proliferation, which included mitotic cell cycle, DNA replication and chromosome cycle, and DNA metabolism. Most genes in these categories overlapped with each other. IPA analysis showed that the up-regulated genes in immune response were highly relevant to the antigen presentation pathway and to interferon signaling. The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G, tapasin (TAP) and TAP binding protein, both of which are involved in peptide antigen binding and presentation via MHC class I molecules, are depicted in the immune response molecule networks. Interferon gamma and interleukin 8 were overexpressed and found to play central roles in these networks.

Conclusions

Abnormal regulatory networks in the immune response and cell cycle categories were identified in BM mononuclear cells from RA patients, indicating that the BM is pathologically involved in RA.
Factors influencing patient willingness to participate in genetic research after a myocardial infarction
Authors: Lanfear David E , Jones Philip G , Cresci Sharon , Tang Fengming , Rathore Saif S , Spertus John A
Published: June 2011

Background

Achieving 'personalized medicine' requires enrolling representative cohorts into genetic studies, but patient self-selection may introduce bias. We sought to identify characteristics associated with genetic consent in a myocardial infarction (MI) registry.

Methods

We assessed correlates of participation in the genetic sub-study of TRIUMPH, a prospective MI registry (n = 4,340) from 24 US hospitals between April 2005 and December 2008. Factors examined included extensive socio-demographics factors, clinical variables, and study site. Predictors of consent were identified using hierarchical modified Poisson regression, adjusting for study site. Variation in consent rates across hospitals were quantified by the median rate ratio (MRR).

Results

Most subjects consented to donation of their genetic material (n = 3,484; 80%). Participation rates varied greatly between sites, from 40% to 100%. After adjustment for confounding factors, the MRR for hospital was 1.22 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11 to 1.29). The only patient-level factors associated with consent were race (RR 0.93 for African Americans versus whites, 95% CI 0.88 to 0.99) and body mass index (RR 1.03 for BMI ≥ 25, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.06).

Conclusion

Among patients with an MI there were notable differences in genetic consent by study site, but little association with patient-level factors. This suggests that variation in the way information is presented during recruitment, or other site factors, strongly influence patients' decision to participate in genetic studies.
Velocity-independent τ-p moveout in a horizontally layered VTI medium
Authors: Casasanta Lorenzo , Fomel Sergey
Published: June 2011

Local slopes of seismic events carry complete information about the structure of the subsurface. This information is sufficient for accomplishing all time-domain imaging tasks, without the need to estimate or know the seismic velocity model. A velocity-independent [Formula: see text] imaging approach has been developed to perform moveout correction in horizontally layered vertical-transverse-isotropy (VTI) media. The effective and interval anisotropic parameters are transformed into data attributes through the use of slopes and become directly mappable to the zero-slope traveltime. The [Formula: see text] transform is the natural domain for anisotropy parameter estimation in layered media because the phase velocity is given explicitly in terms of [Formula: see text]. Therefore, the [Formula: see text] transform permits reflection-traveltime modeling and inversion that are simpler than traditional methods, which are based on Taylor-series expansions of traveltime in the t-x domain. Synthetic and field data tests demonstrate the practical effectiveness of the [Formula: see text] method.
Performance of the Euroline Western blot assay in the detection of herpes simplex virus type 2 antibody in Uganda, China and the USA
Authors: Neal J D , Tobian A A R , Laeyendecker O , Ngo T D , Redd A D , Reynolds S J , Morrow R Ashley , Manucci J L , Serwadda D , Gray R H , Quinn T C
Published: June 2011

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) worldwide. While glycoprotein G-2 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays are commonly used for the serological detection of HSV-2 antibodies, they have low specificity in developing countries. The Euroline Western blot (WB) is a commercially available assay that is easy to perform; however, little is known about its performance characteristics. This study evaluated Euroline WB for the detection of HSV-2 antibodies compared with University of Washington Western blot in three geographically different regions: Baltimore, MD, USA; Rakai, Uganda; and Kunming, China. Among the 135 American men attending a STI clinic in Baltimore, MD, 72% (n = 97) were HSV-2-positive by Euroline WB, showing a sensitivity of 97.8% and a specificity of 81.8%. Among the 273 commercial sex workers in Kunming, 62.3% were HSV-2-positive by Euroline WB (sensitivity 96.9%, specificity 89.1 %). Among the 437 Ugandans in Rakai, 67.3% were HSV-2-positive by Euroline WB (sensitivity 98.7%, specificity 65.4%). The Euroline WB has a consistently high sensitivity, but specificity varied significantly among the different locations.
Field evaluation of five rapid diagnostic tests for screening of HIV-1 infections in rural Rakai, Uganda
Authors: Kagulire S C , Opendi P , Stamper P D , Nakavuma J L , Mills L A , Makumbi F , Gray R H , Shott J P , Serwadda D , Reynolds S J
Published: June 2011

The performance characteristics of HIV rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) vary by test and by population. We assessed five commercial RDTs in Uganda where all but one RDT (Determine; Abbott Laboratories, Germany) performed close to manufacturer's expectations. Determine had low specificity (85.2%, positive predictive value 67.3%) due to false-positive results with weak-positive bands. Properly trained staff, good quality control programmes and validation of RDTs with laboratories having confirmatory testing capacity may be warranted to assure accuracy in each setting.
European guideline for the management of pediculosis pubis, 2010
Authors: Scott G R , Chosidow O
Published: June 2011

Transmission of the crab louse Phthirus pubis generally occurs by close body contact. Diagnosis is usually clinical and screening for other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is indicated. While most evidence is extrapolated from studies of head lice treatments, topical pediculicides are recommended and treatment of sexual contacts is indicated.
The Unity of Plato′s Meno. Reconstructing the Author′s Thoughts
Authors: Blössner Norbert
Published: June 2011

In Platonic dialogues the author’s reflections and intention are to be found not only in the statements of particular characters, but in the arrangement of the text as a whole. Not only does Plato decide what his main character says but he also chooses the reactions of his interlocutors, the progress and results of the conversation and whether his characters consider these results to be final answers. It seems that a Platonic dialogue could tell his reader more than what the interlocutors tell each other.

In my paper I try to reconstruct from discernible phenomena what the Meno is intended to tell us. My starting point is the question how the topics of this dialogue are connected with each other. Why did Plato present the question whether ἀρετή is teachable, the theory of recollection, the method of hypothesis and the distinction between knowledge and opinion in the same dialogue? Is the Meno to be considered as a collection of philosophical topics independent of each other, or did Plato see an interconnection between them? And how could this interconnection be described?
Die Seelentaube bei Prudentius
Authors: Gnilka Christian
Published: June 2011

Prudentius’s hymn on St. Eulalia suffers from an interpolated stanza (perist. 3, 171–175): the carnifices’s flight caused by the dove, i.e. the soul, leaving the mouth of the dying saint is an exaggeration not found anywhere else in the ancient acts and legends of the Christian martyrs. It disturbs the poem’s composition and violates the tenderness of its poetical invention. The spurious lines, though patched up with material borrowed from the author, show some weakness in expression and offer the problem of differentiating between satelles and lictor, a differentiation that was never made by the poet himself. The forged stanza was made up and included by an interpolator who wished to complete the poem’s storyline specifying a motive which had only been alluded to in the authentic poem (perist. 3, 13–15).
Significado da laqueadura tubária para moradoras de vilas populares de Porto Alegre
Authors: Lima Ana Amélia Antunes , Luz Anna Maria Hecker
Published: June 2011

O acesso aos serviços de saúde nos diversos segmentos sociais faz aumentar a procura por métodos que assegurem uma contracepção sem falhas. Nesse sentido, aumentou a procura pela laqueadura tubária (LT) por mulheres maiores de 25 anos e de nível educacional menor. Trata-se de um estudo exploratório descritivo com abordagem qualitativa que tem por objetivos: conhecer o significado da laqueadura tubária entre mulheres esterilizadas da Vila Pinto/Porto Alegre; compreender os motivos da escolha deste método e descobrir se ocorrem mudanças no relacionamento sexual após o procedimento cirúrgico. As participantes do estudo são doze mulheres que se submeteram a LT no período de julho de 2002 a junho de 2003. A coleta das informações foi por entrevista semi-estruturada. Os relatos foram submetidos a análise de conteúdo de onde emergiram três temas: Decisão pela laqueadura tubária; Realização da laqueadura tubária e Vivências após a laqueadura tubária.
Análise das dissertações e teses de enfermagem sobre adolescência, Brasil, 1979-2000
Authors: Moreira Thereza Maria Magalhães , Jorge Maria Salete Bessa , Lima Francisca Elisângela Teixeira
Published: June 2011

Objetivou-se averiguar o conhecimento produzido na enfermagem brasileira sobre adolescência de 1979 a 2000. A pesquisa documental relacionou resumos das dissertações e teses contidas no CD-room do Centro de Estudos e Pesquisas em Enfermagem (CEPEN), cujas temáticas eram adolescência/adolescente. Os resultados, discutidos de acordo com os conceitos de Meleis (1997) e a literatura pertinente, mostram 46 trabalhos, sendo 37 dissertações, com defesa na Região Sudeste (32), desenvolvidas, prioritariamente, no período 1995-1999. As tendências teórico-metodológicas demonstraram prevalência de estudos clínicos (22), ligados ao adolescente, de natureza qualitativa (34). Concluímos que há necessidade de estudos que contemplem o adolescente em seu contexto familiar e comunitário, como também é necessário maior incentivo ao desenvolvimento de teses em regiões menos favorecidas do país.
Contribuição das teorias de enfermagem para a construção do conhecimento da área
Authors: Garcia Telma Ribeiro , Nóbrega Maria Miriam Lima da
Published: June 2011

Neste ensaio são discutidos alguns aspectos acerca do fenômeno conhecimento e da atividade de conhecer, que servem ao propósito de situar a perspectiva a partir da qual as autoras compreendem qual tem sido a contribuição das teorias de enfermagem para a construção do conhecimento da área. As teorias de enfermagem selecionam, definem e inter-relacionam conceitos representativos de fenômenos que estão no domínio de interesse da profissão. Garantir a compreensão e o reconhecimento intersubjetivo do significado dos conceitos incluídos nesses referenciais teóricos é um aspecto básico, pois eleva seu potencial de aplicabilidade prática, seja no ensino, na pesquisa ou na assistência de enfermagem.
Estresse salino e temperaturas na germinação e vigor de sementes de Chorisia glaziovii O. Kuntze
Authors: Guedes Roberta Sales , Alves Edna Ursulino , Galindo Evio Alves , Barrozo Leandra Matos
Published: June 2011

Chorisia glaziovii O. Kuntze, espécie nativa do Nordeste brasileiro, pertencente à família Bombacaceae têm usos diversificados na medicina popular, na recomposição de áreas degradadas e na indústria de estofados. Assim, objetivou-se com o trabalho avaliar o efeito do estresse salino e temperaturas na germinação e vigor das sementes de C. glaziovii. As soluções salinas foram preparadas utilizando-se como soluto o NaCl, nas concentrações: 0,0 (controle); 1,5; 3,0; 4,5 e 6,0 dS.m-1 diluídas em água destilada e deionizada. Posteriormente as sementes foram distribuídas no substrato e postas para germinar nas temperaturas constantes de 25 °C, 30 °C, 35 °C e alternada de 20-30 °C. O delineamento experimental utilizado foi o inteiramente ao acaso, com os tratamentos distribuídos em esquema fatorial 5 x 4 (níveis de salinidade e temperaturas), em quatro repetições de 25 sementes. Avaliou-se a porcentagem, primeira contagem e índice de velocidade de germinação, bem como o comprimento de plântulas (raiz e parte aérea). O aumento da concentração salina no substrato provocou redução na germinação e no vigor das sementes de C. glaziovii, especialmente na temperatura de 30 °C e 35 °C. Na temperatura de 25 °C e 20-30 °C a germinação e o vigor das sementes são menos afetados pelo estresse salino. O estresse salino ocasionado por NaCl até o potencial de 4,5 dS.m-1 não afeta o desempenho germinativo de sementes de C. glaziovii, a qual desenvolveu elevada tolerância à salinidade.
Alinhamento entre estratégia de negócios e melhoria de processos de software: um roteiro de implementação
Authors: Asato Regina , Spinola Mauro Mesquita , Costa Ivanir , Silva Walter Henrique De Farias
Published: June 2011

As ações de melhoria dos produtos e processos de software, para um melhor atendimento dos objetivos de negócio de uma organização, devem estar associadas às estratégias competitivas do mercado. Este trabalho descreve um roteiro que traduz os objetivos estratégicos de organizações de software em indicadores de processo gerenciáveis. O Balanced Scorecard (BSC) é utilizado como base desse roteiro, sendo complementado pelas práticas do modelo Practical Software Measurement (PSM). O estudo está baseado em uma pesquisa bibliográfica dos conceitos e a aplicação de uma pesquisa-ação. A estratégia de pesquisa-ação permite o refinamento do roteiro, o aprendizado dos participantes e a melhoria da aplicação do próprio método. A execução das etapas metodológicas resultou na definição do mapa estratégico e seus desdobramentos em uma organização desenvolvedora de software. O resultado final é um roteiro que permite a implementação do alinhamento estratégico de negócios e a melhoria de processos em organizações desenvolvedoras de software.
Efeito do tratamento das fibras nas propriedades do biocompósito de amido termoplástico/policaprolactona/sisal
Authors: Campos Adriana de , Teodoro Kelcilene B. R. , Marconcini José M. , Mattoso Luiz H.C. , Martins-Franchetti Sandra M.
Published: June 2011

Fibras de sisal com quatro tratamentos, a saber: fibra lavada com água, lavada com cicloexano/etanol, tratamento alcalino (NaOH) e tratamento com peróxido alcalino (branqueamento), foram incorporadas na blenda amido termoplástico/policaprolactona 80/20 (TPS/PCL). As propriedades morfológicas, mecânicas e térmicas dos biocompósitos TPS/PCL/Sisal foram analisadas. Os compósitos com a fibra branqueada apresentaram os melhores resultados de resistência à tração e estabilidade térmica. Verificou-se também melhora da adesão fibra-matriz no compósito com a fibra branqueada, com aumento de 145% na resistência à tração.
Efeito da degradação ambiental nas propriedades de cisalhamento de compósitos PPS/fibra de carbono
Authors: Costa Anahi P. , Botelho Edson C. , Pardini Luiz C.
Published: June 2011

Os compósitos termoplásticos avançados são uma alternativa a compósitos termorrígidos em algumas aplicações aeronáuticas, devido a ganhos em propriedades. Dentre as matrizes termoplásticas, o PPS (poli sulfeto de fenileno) destaca-se devido às suas características estruturais. O objetivo deste trabalho é avaliar a influência do condicionamento ambiental sobre o comportamento de resistência ao cisalhamento de PPS / fibras de carbono. Por esta razão, amostras deste material foram condicionadas em solução salina, em banho higrotérmico e sob radiação UV. Após estes condicionamentos os corpos-de-prova foram avaliados quanto a sua resistência aos cisalhamentos interlaminar (ILSS) e Iosipescu e os resultados obtidos foram comparados. Quando comparado ao valor de cisalhamento interlaminar obtido do compósito não-climatizado (58,4 ± 1,9 MPa), os valores de cisalhamento interlaminar ILSS decaíram em torno de 14 e 3%, respectivamente, após banho higrotérmico e banho salino. Sob condicionamento por radiação UV houve um decréscimo de 2% após exposição por 300 horas, 11% após 600 horas e 9% após 900 horas. Já o laminado ensaiado pelo método Iosipescu teve uma tensão de cisalhamento no plano de 109,2 ± 0,4 MPa. Com condicionamentos, teve um decréscimo de 6% após banho higrotérmico e 12% após banho salino. A exposição à radiação UV provocou na resistência de cisalhamento no plano um decaimento de 6% para o condicionamento de 300 horas, 10% para o condicionamento de 600 horas e 14% para o condicionamento por 900 horas.
Processos de inserção de analfabetos e semi-alfabetizados no mundo da cultura escrita (1930-1950)
Authors: Galvão Ana Maria de Oliveira
Published: June 2011

O artigo busca, a partir dos resultados de uma pesquisa concluída que objetivou reconstruir o público leitor/ouvinte de folhetos de cordel no período de 1930 a 1950 em Pernambuco, identificar como se davam as formas de inserção de pessoas analfabetas ou pouco escolarizadas em culturas marcadas pela presença da escrita. As "cartas de ABC", os livros didáticos, as histórias em quadrinhos, os romances policiais e os almanaques compunham o universo de leituras da maior parte do público investigado. Alguns fatores parecem contribuir para que os sujeitos apresentem contatos diferenciados e utilizem de maneiras diversas os objetos que compõem o mundo da cultura escrita, destacando-se, entre eles, a experiência urbana, o pertencimento a um ou outro sexo, a ocupação profissional e o domínio das habilidades básicas de leitura.
Desvantagem vocal no canto: análise do protocolo Índice de Desvantagem para o Canto Moderno - IDCM
Authors: Moreti Felipe , Rocha Clara , Borrego Maria Cristina de Menezes , Behlau Mara
Published: June 2011

OBJETIVO: Verificar a sensibilidade do protocolo italiano Modern Singing Handicap Index - MSHI, traduzido e culturalmente adaptado para o Português Brasileiro como Índice de Desvantagem para o Canto Moderno - IDCM, comparando os escores de coralistas amadores com e sem queixas vocais e de indivíduos não-cantores, de acordo com gênero, classificação vocal e atividades de canto. MÉTODOS: Duzentos e vinte e seis indivíduos adultos, com idades entre 16 e 66 anos, foram distribuídos em três grupos: 58 cantores com queixas vocais - CCQ; 112 cantores sem queixas vocais - CSQ e 56 indivíduos não cantores e sem queixas vocais - GNC. Os cantores foram selecionados em cinco coros universitários de música popular brasileira, a capella, regidos pelo mesmo maestro. Os indivíduos não cantores foram recrutados nas mesmas instituições dos cantores, com características demográficas semelhantes. Os indivíduos preencheram individualmente o IDCM, questionário com 30 itens divididos em três subescalas: incapacidade (domínio funcional), desvantagem (domínio emocional) e defeito (domínio orgânico). Os cantores também realizaram uma auto-avaliação de suas atividades de canto. RESULTADOS: A média dos escores do IDCM do CCQ (26,91) foi maior que a do o CSQ (16,61), e ambas maiores que a do GNC (7,79). Para os três grupos, a subescala defeito apresentou as maiores médias de escores, seguida por incapacidade e desvantagem. Não houve diferenças dos escores em relação ao gênero, classificação vocal e atividades de canto. CONCLUSÃO: O protocolo mostrou-se sensível para cantores modernos com problemas de voz. Coralistas com queixas vocais apresentaram maior desvantagem auto-relatada em relação aos sem queixas e não cantores. Aspectos de natureza orgânica destacaram-se com maiores desvios.
Correlação entre as restrições de participação em atividades de vida diária e o benefício do uso de próteses auditivas em adultos e idosos
Authors: Luz Vívian Baptista da , Silva Monique Cantelli da , Scharlach Renata Coelho , Iório Maria Cecília Martinelli
Published: June 2011

OBJETIVO: Estudar o benefício obtido com o uso de próteses auditivas em ambientes acusticamente favoráveis à comunicação, reverberantes, ruidosos e com sons aversivos e correlacioná-lo com as restrições de participação e limitações de atividades de adultos e idosos deficientes auditivos. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados 42 indivíduos atendidos na instituição em que o estudo foi realizado. Estes responderam aos questionários Hearing Handicap Inventory for Elderly ou for Adults e Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit, no momento da dispensação das próteses auditivas e após três meses de uso efetivo destas. Foram estudadas as restrições de participação, limitações auditivas e o benefício com o uso de próteses auditivas. Os resultados foram analisados estatisticamente. RESULTADOS: Houve diferenças entre os escores dos questionários Hearing Handicap Inventory for Elderly e for Adults e entre os das subescalas Facilidade de Comunicação, Ambientes Reverberantes e Ruído Ambiental do questionário Abbreviated Profile of Hearing Aid Benefit, comparando as condições sem e com próteses auditivas. Houve correlação positiva entre o benefício mensurado na subescala Facilidade de Comunicação, nos idosos, e Ruído Ambiental, nos adultos, com a redução da restrição de participação. CONCLUSÃO: Houve redução das limitações de atividades e da restrição de participação em atividades de vida diária em adultos e idosos com o uso de próteses auditivas. Quanto maior o benefício obtido na subescala Facilidade de Comunicação em idosos e o benefício na subescala Ruído Ambiental nos adultos, maior a redução da restrição de participação.