bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Encouraging results in older patients receiving chemotherapy: A retrospective analysis of treatment guideline adherence in daily practice
Authors: Heijmen Linda , van Laarhoven Hanneke WM , Punt Cornelis JA , van den Hurk Desiree , van der Drift Miep A , Ottevanger Petronella B , Timmer‐Bonte Johanna NH
Published: August 2011

Objective:  A retrospective study was performed to determine whether patients over 60 years old who received chemotherapy were treated according to the existing treatment guidelines and to investigate the reasons for dose reductions or treatment delay.

Material and methods:  Three hundred and seven patients aged over 60 years old and diagnosed with colon, breast or lung cancer between 1998 and 2008 who were treated with chemotherapy in the Radboud University Medical Center were included. From the medical records we recorded the number of and the reasons for dose reductions and delays. We calculated the relative dose intensity (RDI) received.

Results:  RDI did not decrease significantly with age. However patients over 65 years of age had a higher probability of receiving a suboptimal dose intensity, even when treated with curative intent. There was no correlation between toxicity and age, however the comorbidity score increased with age. The average received RDI was higher in patients diagnosed more recently.

Conclusion:  Despite increased comorbidity, older patients receiving chemotherapy were generally treated according to protocol without high incidence of severe toxicity. We saw improvement of RDI over the time period investigated. The participation of geriatricians in multidisciplinary oncology teams could help to optimize therapy decisions for patients with comorbidity. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 80–85.
Assimilation of acetate by the putative atmospheric methane oxidizers belonging to the USCα clade
Authors: Pratscher Jennifer , Dumont Marc G. , Conrad Ralf
Published: August 2011

Forest soils are a major biological sink for atmospheric methane, yet the identity and physiology of the microorganisms responsible for this process remain unclear. Although members of the upland soil cluster α (USCα) are assumed to represent methanotrophic bacteria adapted to the oxidation of the trace level of methane in the atmosphere and to be an important sink of this greenhouse gas, so far they have resisted isolation. In particular, the question of whether the atmospheric methane oxidizers are able to obtain all their energy and carbon solely from atmospheric methane still waits to be answered. In this study, we performed stable‐isotope probing (SIP) of RNA and DNA to investigate the assimilation of 13C‐methane and 13C‐acetate by USCα in an acidic forest soil. RNA‐SIP showed that pmoA mRNA of USCα was not labelled by 13C of supplemented 13C methane, although catalysed reporter deposition – fluorescence in situ hybridization (CARD‐FISH) targeting pmoA mRNA of USCα detected its expression in the incubated soil. In contrast, incorporation of 13C‐acetate into USCαpmoA mRNA was observed. USCαpmoA genes were not labelled, indicating that they had not grown during the incubation. Our results indicate that the contribution of alternative carbon sources, such as acetate, to the metabolism of the putative atmospheric methane oxidizers in upland forest soils might be substantial.
The burden of bladder cancer in men and women: analysis of the years of life lost
Authors: Scosyrev Emil , Golijanin Dragan , Wu Guan , Messing Edward
Published: August 2011

Study Type – Harms (individual cohort)

Level of Evidence 2a

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Previously, it was appreciated that men lost about 12 years of expected remaining life if they died of bladder cancer. However, nothing was known about how exposure history, gender, age and stage at diagnosis, and other factors affected life expectancy of bladder cancer patients.

The impact of these factors was now taken into consideration when determining years of potential life lost from bladder cancer death and the loss in median life expectancy at bladder cancer diagnosis. Compared with men, women lose more years of life and a greater fraction of their life expectancy to bladder cancer.

OBJECTIVE

• To estimate the average loss in life expectancy (LE) due to bladder cancer (BC) in men and women in the USA.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• Cancer records for 51 528 patients diagnosed with BC during 1988–1997 were obtained from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database.

• Potential follow‐up ranged from 10 to 20 years (median 14 years). Loss in median LE at BC diagnosis was computed as the difference between expected median survival and observed median survival.

• Expected survival was calculated using two methods: method 1 used age, sex, and race‐specific LE in the general population, method 2 used the hazard of death from non‐BC causes in patients with BC (to account for past exposures and treatment‐related toxicities not present in the general population).

RESULTS

• During the study period, BC death occurred in 17% of men and 23% of women and non‐BC death occurred in 53% of men and 47% of women.

• Using LE in the general population as the reference (method 1), loss in median LE at BC diagnosis was 3.9 years for men (33% of their potential remaining years of life) and 6.5 years for women (47% of their potential remaining years of life).

• Using non‐BC‐specific hazard as the reference (method 2), loss in median LE was 2.7 years for men (26% of their potential remaining years of life) and 4.1 years for women (36% of their potential remaining years of life).

CONCLUSION

• Compared with men, women loose more years of life and a greater fraction of their life expectancy to BC.
A Search Model of Unemployment and Inflation*
Authors: Lehmann Etienne
Published: August 2011

This paper introduces money into the standard labor‐matching model. A double‐coincidence problem makes money necessary as a medium of exchange. In the long run, a rise in the growth rate of money leads to higher inflation and higher unemployment, such that the long‐run Phillips curve is not vertical. The optimal monetary growth rate decreases with greater worker bargaining power, the level of unemployment benefits, and the payroll tax rate.
Tell the Teacher or Tell the Bully off: Children's Strategy Production for Bystanders to Bullying
Authors: Rock Patrick F. , Baird Jodie A.
Published: August 2011

Although children's reticence to intervene as bystanders to bullying is well established, the reasons for their inaction remain unclear. One possibility is that they are incapable of generating appropriate response strategies in these situations. This study examined the number and type of strategies children (N = 104, 6–11 years) could generate for bystanders to a variety of bullying situations. Across bullying situations, older children generated more strategies than did younger children. Children most often suggested that the bystander confront the bully directly, followed by the suggestion that the bystander find a teacher for help or comfort the victim. An exclusion incident prompted more frequent proposals that the bystander help by comforting the victim while a pushing incident prompted more frequent appeals to a teacher. A priming story about a peer bystander intervening successfully in a bullying incident boosted strategy production in girls but did not affect boys.
Testing for Utility Maximization with Error and the Loss of Power
Authors: Heufer Jan
Published: August 2011

A procedure is suggested to decide whether or not to treat a consumer who violates the Generalized Axiom of Revealed Preference as ‘close enough’ to utility maximization. It is based on the reduction of the power the test has against random behaviour. It can also be used to compare different efficiency indices.
Learning Lessons from Men Who Have Sexually Abused Children
Authors: Colton Matthew , Roberts Susan , Vanstone Maurice
Published: August 2011

The sexual abuse of children and young people by those who work with them is a global problem. Yet, our knowledge of this form of abuse remains limited. There is a dearth of research on offenders' accounts of how they perpetrated abuse within a paid work or voluntary sector environment. Thus, our focus here is on data collected during individual interviews with eight adult males who had been imprisoned for abusing a total of 35 children while in a position of trust. We examine abusers' accounts of the abuse: how they gained access to victims; how they initiated, maintained, and concealed abuse; and finally, how it might be prevented. We reflect on the relevance of this work for the criminal justice system and its significance for those outside the criminal justice field.
The interiorizing movement of logical life: reflections on Wolfgang Giegerich
Authors: Casement Ann
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  The following article is an account of my discovery of and subsequent immersion in Wolfgang Giegerich's work. A sampling of his voluminous writings on the soul is set out to illustrate how he attempts to penetrate thinkingly into psychological phenomena and his claim that this inevitably brings out their internal dialectic. The article summarizes his critiques of Jung, Hillman, and The Red Book: Liber Novus.
Chronos in synchronicity: manifestations of the psychoid reality
Authors: Yiassemides Angeliki
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  Jung's most obvious time‐related concept is synchronicity. Yet, even though ‘time’ is embedded in it (chronos) there has been no systematic treatment of the time factor. Jung himself avoided dealing explicitly with the concept of time in synchronicity, in spite of its temporal assumptions and implications. In this paper the role of time in synchronicity is examined afresh, locating it in the context of meaning and relating it to the psychoid archetype. Synchronicity is viewed as an expression of the psychoid; the vital parameter for the elucidation of this link appears to be time. The author argues that the psychoid rests on relative time which Jung deemed transcendent. The existence of two different uses of the word ‘time’ in Jung's opus are emphasized: fixed time that dominates consciousness and relative time that exists in the psyche at large. Since consciousness cannot grasp the psychoid's temporality it de‐relativizes time; examples of this ‘behaviour’ of time can be observed in instances of synchronicity. It is thus argued that synchronicity demonstrates by analogy the nature of the psychoid archetype. Jung's quaternio, as it developed via his communication with Pauli, is also examined in light of the above presented ‘time theory’.
A steroid modulatory domain in NR2A collaborates with NR1 exon‐5 to control NMDAR modulation by pregnenolone sulfate and protons
Authors: Kostakis Emmanuel , Jang Ming‐Kuei , Russek Shelley J. , Gibbs Terrell T. , Farb David H.
Published: August 2011

J. Neurochem.(2011)119, 486–496.

NMDA receptor (NMDAR)‐mediated excitatory synaptic transmission plays a critical role in synaptic plasticity and memory formation, whereas its dysfunction may underlie neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. The neuroactive steroid pregnenolone sulfate (PS) acts as a cognitive enhancer in impaired animals, augments LTP in hippocampal slices by enhancing NMDAR activity, and may participate in the reduction of schizophrenia’s negative symptoms by systemic pregnenolone. We report that the effects of PS on NMDAR function are diverse, varying with subunit composition and NR1 splice variant. While PS potentiates NR1‐1a/NR2B receptors through a critical steroid modulatory domain in NR2B that also modulates tonic proton inhibition, potentiation of the NMDA response is not dependent upon relief of such inhibition, a finding that distinguishes it from spermine. In contrast, the presence of an NR2A subunit confers enhanced PS‐potentiation at reduced pH, suggesting that it may indeed act like spermine does at NR2B‐containing receptors. Additional tuning of the NMDAR response by PS comes via the N‐terminal exon‐5 splicing insert of NR1‐1b, which regulates the magnitude of proton‐dependent PS potentiation. For NR2C‐ and NR2D‐containing receptors, negative modulation at NR2C receptors is pH‐independent (like NR2B) while negative modulation at NR2D receptors is pH‐dependent (like NR2A). Taken together, PS displays a rich modulatory repertoire that takes advantage of the structural diversity of NMDARs in the CNS. The differential pH sensitivity of NMDAR isoforms to PS modulation may be especially important given the emerging role of proton sensors to both learning and memory, as well as brain injury.
Genetic tracing of the gustatory neural pathway originating from Pkd1l3‐expressing type III taste cells in circumvallate and foliate papillae
Authors: Yamamoto Kurumi , Ishimaru Yoshiro , Ohmoto Makoto , Matsumoto Ichiro , Asakura Tomiko , Abe Keiko
Published: August 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 497–506.

Polycystic kidney disease 1‐like 3 (Pkd1l3) is expressed specifically in sour‐sensing type III taste cells that have synaptic contacts with afferent nerve fibers in circumvallate (CvP) and foliate papillae (FoP) located in the posterior region of the tongue, although not in fungiform papillae (FuP) or the palate. To visualize the gustatory neural pathways that originate from type III taste cells in CvP and FoP, we established transgenic mouse lines that express the transneuronal tracer wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) under the control of the mouse Pkd1l3 gene promoter/enhancer. The WGA transgene was accurately expressed in Pkd1l3‐expressing type III taste cells in CvP and FoP. Punctate WGA protein signals appeared to be detected specifically in type III taste cells but not in other types of taste cells. WGA protein was transferred primarily to a subset of neurons located in close proximity to the glossopharyngeal (GL) nerve bundles in the nodose/petrosal ganglion (NPG). WGA signals were also observed in a small population of neurons in the geniculate ganglion (GG). This result demonstrates the anatomical connection between taste receptor cells (TRCs) in the FoP and the chorda tympani (CT) nerves. WGA protein was further conveyed to neurons in a rostro‐central subdivision of the nucleus of the solitary tract (NST). These findings demonstrate that the approximately 10 kb 5′‐flanking region of the mouse Pkd1l3 gene functions as a type III taste cell‐specific promoter/enhancer. In addition, experiments using the pkd1l3‐WGA transgenic mice reveal a sour gustatory pathway that originates from TRCs in the posterior region of the tongue.
Geometric Imperfection Sensitivity of Curved Panels Under Combined Compression and In‐Plane Bending – A Study Using Adaptive Meshing and DIC
Authors: Featherston C. A.
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  The existence of geometric imperfections, either resulting from the use of manufacturing tolerances or because of damage in situ is known to have a detrimental effect on the buckling and post‐buckling behaviour of thin‐walled structures, which depending upon factors such as geometry and loading, can be significant. This paper presents an automated technique, based on the use of topography data obtained from optical measurement, for creating finite meshes representative of the geometry of real structures, which can be analysed to obtain accurate predictions of unstable behaviour. The technique incorporates an algorithm to allow mesh density to be varied across the specimen according to level of curvature thus ensuring the meshes generated are not only accurate but also computationally efficient by reducing the number of degrees of freedom where appropriate. The results of applying this technique to a series of curved panels subject to combined shear and in‐plane bending (an example of a component of an aero engine blade) are reported.
Evaluation of closed incision management with negative pressure wound therapy (CIM): Hematoma/seroma and involvement of the lymphatic system
Authors: Kilpadi Deepak V. , Cunningham Mark R.
Published: August 2011

The objective of this porcine study was to evaluate the effect of closed incision management with negative pressure wound therapy (CIM) on hematoma/seroma formation, fluid removal into the CIM canister, and involvement of the lymphatic system. In each swine (n = 8), two sets of ventral contralateral subcutaneous dead spaces with overlying sutured incisions were created. Stable isotope‐labeled nanospheres were introduced into each subcutaneous dead space. Each contralateral incision was assigned to CIM (continuous −125 mmHg negative pressure) and control (semipermeable film dressing), respectively. Following 4 days of therapy, hematoma/seroma was weighed, total fluid volume in canisters was measured, five pre‐identified lymph nodes were harvested, and five key organs were biopsied. There was 25 ± 8 g (standard error [SE]) (63%) less hematoma/seroma in CIM sites compared to control sites (p = 0.002), without any fluid collection in the CIM canister. In lymph nodes, there were ∼60 μg (∼50%) more 30‐ and 50‐nm nanospheres from CIM sites than from control sites (p = 0.04 and 0.05, respectively). There was significantly greater nanosphere incidence from CIM sites than from control sites in lungs, liver, and spleen (p < 0.05); no nanospheres were detected in kidney biopsies. Thus, in this porcine model, application of CIM significantly decreased hematoma/seroma levels without fluid collection in the canister, which may be explained by increased lymph clearance.
Aminated β‐1,3‐D‐glucan has a dose‐dependent effect on wound healing in diabetic db/db mice
Authors: Berdal Margrete , Appelbom Hege I. , Eikrem Jorunn H. , Lund Åse , Busund Lill‐Tove , Hanes Robert , Seljelid Rolf , Jenssen Trond
Published: August 2011

Inflammatory responses are common in diabetes and are operative in angiopathy, neuropathy, and wound healing. There are indications of incomplete macrophage activation in diabetes and reduced expression of growth factors. We have previously found that up to 15 topical applications of the macrophage‐stimulant, aminated β‐1,3‐D‐glucan (AG), improved wound healing in db/db mice. The present open‐label study was undertaken to examine dose‐dependent effects of AG over 40 days in db/db mice. AG was given as a single dose (group 1), one dose every 10th day (group 2), five initial doses on consecutive days (group 3), and ≥15 doses (group 4). Controls were db/db mice receiving platelet‐derived growth factor + insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (group 5), topical placebo (NaCl 9 mg/mL) and insulin (group 6), placebo (group 7), and a nondiabetic group receiving placebo (group 8). Seven to 14 animals were allocated to each group. Percentage wound closure 17 days after surgery in groups 1 and 2 were (mean ± standard error of the mean) 25.5 ± 5.3 and 32.2 ± 6.3, respectively. Corresponding closure in groups 3, 4, and 5 was 55.7 ± 5.0, 57.3 ± 5.0, and 55.6 ± 4.8, respectively (p < 0.05 vs. groups 1 and 2). Groups 6, 7, and 8 closed 32.0 ± 4.5, 38.2 ± 5.3, and 98.5 ± 0.4%, respectively. Significant association between the number of AG‐dosages and wound closure indicates dose‐related effects in db/db mice.
Analysis of Current Therapy and Clinical Outcome in Childhood Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Mabrouk Dalia , Ahmed A. Razzaque
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a rare, potentially fatal chronic autoimmune disease of the skin and mucous membrane. The objective of this study was to analyze the clinical outcomes and side effects associated with treatment of childhood PV (CPV). A retrospective review of the English language literature was conducted through PUBMED using the words childhood pemphigus vulgaris, and treatment or clinical outcome. Only patients under 12 years of age were included. Thirty‐three cases were found in 29 reports. Mean age at onset was 8.3 years (range 1.5–12 yrs). Mucosal involvement (97.0%) was more common than cutaneous involvement (84.8%). Oral mucosa was the most common site of mucosal involvement (93.9%), followed by genital (20.6%), ocular (11.8%), and nasal mucosa (2.9%). Mean duration of therapy was 4.5 years (range 0.6–14.5 yrs), and mean duration of follow‐up was 5.2 years (range 0.6–16 yrs). Complete recovery with no further therapy was achieved in 18.2% and partial recovery with minor relapses while on maintenance therapy in 78.8%. One patient died due to infection (3.0%). Serious side effects were present in 60.6%. The most common were cushingoid features (65.0%), growth retardation (50.0%), and infection (50.0%). Two patients who were refractory to systemic corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents (ISA) had a favorable clinical response to Rituximab. Current therapy for CPV involving the use of long‐term systemic corticosteroids in conjunction with ISA results in prolonged immunosuppression, causing systemic infections and growth retardation. Safer and more effective therapies need to be explored.
Modulation of Hepatocyte Growth Factor Secretion in Human Female Reproductive Tract Stromal Fibroblasts by Poly (I:C) and Estradiol
Authors: Coleman Kimberly D. , Ghosh Mimi , Crist Sarah G. , Wright Jacqueline A. , Rossoll Richard M. , Wira Charles R. , Fahey John V.
Published: August 2011

Citation Coleman KD, Ghosh M, Crist SG, Wright JA, Rossoll RM, Wira CR, Fahey JV. Modulation of Hepatocyte Growth Factor secretion in human female reproductive tract stromal fibroblasts by poly (I:C) and estradiol. Am J Reprod Immunol 2012; 67: 44–53

Problem

Hepatocyte Growth Factor (HGF) secretion facilitates epithelial cell growth and development in the female reproductive tract (FRT) and may contribute to pathological conditions such as cancer and endometriosis. We hypothesized that estradiol and poly (I:C), a synthetic RNA mimic, may have a regulatory effect on HGF secretion by stromal fibroblasts from FRT tissues.

Method of study

Following hysterectomies, normal tissue from the uterus, endocervix, and ectocervix were dispersed into stromal cell fractions by enzymatic digestion and differential filtering. Stromal fibroblasts were cultured and treated with estradiol and/or poly (I:C), and conditioned media were analyzed for HGF via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Treating uterine fibroblasts with estradiol or poly (I:C) significantly increased HGF secretion. When uterine fibroblasts were co‐treated with estradiol and poly (I:C), the effect on HGF secretion was additive. In contrast, stromal fibroblasts from endo‐ and ecto‐cervix were unresponsive to estradiol, but were stimulated to secrete HGF by poly (I:C).

Conclusion

HGF secretion is uniquely regulated in the uterus, but not in ecto‐ and endo‐cervix, by estradiol. Moreover, potential viral pathogens further induce HGF. These findings have potential applications in understanding both hormonal regulation of normal tissue as well as the role of HGF in tumorogenesis, endometriosis, and human immunodeficiency virus infection.
Clozapine-induced palilalia?
Authors: Azevedo Jacinto C. , Lopes Rui , Curral Rosário , Esteves Manuel F. , Coelho Rui , Roma-Torres Antonio
Published: August 2011

Introduction: Palilalia is an acquired speech disorder characterised by involuntary and spontaneous repetition of words or phrases two or more times in a row. It can occur in a variety of disorders including postencephalic parkinsonism, pseudobulbar palsy, schizophrenia, Gilles de la Tourette syndrome and others.

Clinical Case: We describe a case of a 28-year-old man with refractory schizophrenia that developed palilalia with 300 mg of clozapine. In the patient evaluation we found unspecific alterations in the electroencephalogram, with normal blood tests and cerebral magnetic resonance imaging. Palilalia disappeared with lowering doses of clozapine.

Discussion: The appearance of palilalia induced by clozapine is a rare pharmacologic side-effect which physicians should be familiarised with when evaluating this symptom presentation.
Is cognitive behavioural therapy an effective complement to antidepressants in adolescents? A meta-analysis
Authors: Calati Raffaella , Pedrini Laura , Alighieri Sara , Alvarez Mariela Ivana , Desideri Lorenzo , Durante Daniele , Favero Federica , Iero Luisa , Magnani Giulia , Pericoli Valentina , Polmonari Alexia , Raggini Roberta , Raimondi Elena , Riboni Valentina , Scaduto Maria Cristina , Serretti Alessandro , De Girolamo Giovanni
Published: August 2011

Calati R, Pedrini L, Alighieri S, Alvarez MI, Desideri L, Durante D, Favero F, Iero L, Magnani G, Pericoli V, Polmonari A, Raggini R, Raimondi E, Riboni V, Scaduto MC, Serretti A, De Girolamo G. Is cognitive behavioural therapy an effective complement to antidepressants in adolescents? A meta-analysis.

Objective: Evidence on effectiveness of combined treatments versus antidepressants alone in adolescents consists on a few studies in both major depressive and anxiety disorders. A meta-analysis of randomised 12-week follow-up studies in which antidepressant treatment was compared to combined treatment consisting of the same antidepressant with cognitive behavioural therapy has been performed.

Methods: Data were entered into the Cochrane Collaboration Review Manager software and were analysed within a random effect framework. A quality assessment has been performed through Jadad Scale.

Results: Higher global functioning at the Children's Global Assessment Scale was found in the combined treatment group (p < 0.0001) as well as higher improvement at the Clinical Global Impressions Improvement Scale (p = 0.04). No benefit of combined treatment was found on depressive symptomatology at the Children's Depression Rating Scale – Revised.

Conclusion: Combined treatment seems to be more effective than antidepressant alone on global functioning and general improvement in adolescents with major depressive and anxiety disorders.
Complete denture wearing and fractures among edentulous patients treated in university clinics
Authors: Takamiya Aline S. , Monteiro Douglas R. , Marra Juliê , Compagnoni Marco A. , Barbosa Debora B.
Published: August 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00551.x
 
Complete denture wearing and fractures among edentulous patients treated in university clinics

Objective:  The prevalence of wearing and fracture of complete dentures was evaluated among edentulous patients treated in two dental schools in Brazil.

Background:  Acceptance and wearing of complete dentures are related to adaptive behaviour of edentulous patients. However, one reason that could interfere with the wearing dentures is their potential to fracture, which is still a common complication in denture rehabilitation practice.

Material and methods:  Two hundred and twenty‐four edentulous patients rehabilitated with complete dentures from 2000 to 2005 in Araçatuba and Araraquara Dental School, University of State of São Paulo, were assessed in 2006 and 2007 to answer a questionnaire about wearing and fracture of their dentures. Statistical analysis were performed using Epi Info software and chi‐squared test to compare maxillary and mandibular data (α = 0.05).

Results:  Almost 26% of the patients did not wear their dentures, and among the remainder, the majority wore the maxillary denture. About 30% of the dentures were fractured, with higher prevalence in the maxillary arch (p = 0.003).

Conclusions:  Discontinuation of wearing dentures was quite high, especially considering the treatment which was carried out in university clinics. Prevalence of fractures was also high, greater for the maxillary denture, and was one of the main reasons for non‐wearing of complete dentures.
Investigation of Mechanisms Involved in (−)‐Borneol‐Induced Vasorelaxant Response on Rat Thoracic Aorta
Authors: Silva‐Filho José Couras , Oliveira Nelma Neylanne P. M. , Arcanjo Daniel D. R. , Quintans‐Júnior Lucindo J. , Cavalcanti Sócrates C. H. , Santos Márcio Roberto V. , Oliveira Rita de Cássia M. , Oliveira Aldeídia P.
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  The monoterpene (−)‐borneol is present in essential oils of several medicinal plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate (−)‐borneol effects on rat thoracic aorta artery rings. The cumulative addition of (−)‐borneol (10−9–3 × 10−4 M) on a phenylephrine‐induced pre‐contraction (10−6 M) promoted a vasorelaxant effect in a concentration‐dependent manner and independent of vascular endothelium. A similar effect was obtained on KCl‐induced pre‐contractions (80 mM). (−)‐Borneol (10−5–3 × 10−4 M) inhibited contractions induced by cumulative addition of CaCl2 (10−6–3 × 10−2 M) in depolarizing medium without Ca2+ in a concentration‐dependent manner. On S‐(−) Bay K 8644‐induced pre‐contractions (10−7 M), (−)‐borneol did not induce significant changes compared with KCl‐induced pre‐contractions. In a Ca2+‐free medium, (−)‐borneol (10−5, 10−4 or 10−3 M) interfered in calcium mobilization from phenylephrine (10−6 M)‐ or caffeine (20 mM)‐sensitive intracellular stores. The involvement of K+ channels was evaluated by tetraethylammonium (3 mM), 4‐aminopyridine (1 mM) and glibenclamide (10−5 M) pre‐treatment, and (−)‐borneol‐induced vasorelaxation was markedly attenuated. Thus, this vasorelaxant effect can probably be attributed to calcium influx blockade through voltage‐operated calcium channels (CaVL), calcium mobilization from intracellular stores and potassium channels activation.
Targeted therapies in the treatment of gastric cancer
Authors: NGEOW Joanne , TAN Iain Beehuat , CHOO Su Pin
Published: August 2011

Gastric cancer (GC) constitutes a major cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Recent improvements in both surgical techniques and adjuvant and neoadjuvant radiotherapy and chemotherapy approaches have increased the survival of patients with loco‐regional disease. However most patients with GC have advanced disease either at diagnosis or at follow up. Despite recent advances in the treatment of advanced disease, these patients still have poor outcomes. An emerging understanding of the molecular pathways that characterize cell growth, cell cycle, apoptosis, angiogenesis and invasion has provided novel targets in cancer therapy. In this review we describe the current status of targeted therapies in the treatment of GC. These therapeutic strategies include epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, antiangiogenic agents, cell cycle inhibitors, apoptosis, promoters and matrix metalloproteinases inhibitors.
Predictive factors for detecting malignancy in central and lateral cervical lymph nodes in papillary carcinoma of the thyroid
Authors: ARIBAŞ Bilgin Kadri , ARDA Kemal , ÇİLEDAĞ Nazan , AKTAŞ Elif , ÇETİNDAĞ Mehmet Faik
Published: August 2011

Aim:  To determine the factors for predicting malignant diagnosis and limitations in ultrasonography guided fine‐needle aspiration cytology of central and lateral cervical lymph nodes in patients with primary differentiated thyroid papillary carcinoma.

Methods:  Biopsies of cervical lymph nodes were performed in 120 patients, 31 of whom had subsequent surgical diagnoses. Factors examined were patient's age and gender of the patients, location (central and lateral compartments), hypoechogenicity with loss of hilum, microcalcification, cystic feature, minimum and maximum diameters and index value (minimum/maximum diameter).

Results:  The mean minimum diameter and index value of the lymph nodes were 9.9 ± 4.9 mm and 0.60 ± 0.19, respectively. Microcalcifications and cystic parts were specific findings with rates of 93.9% and 95.1%, respectively. Microcalcification, cystic feature, minimum diameter and index value were poor predictors of malignancy. The predictors were central location (P = 0.031) and hypoechogenicity with loss of hilum in lateral neck (P = 0.019). Central nodes led to a major problem for biopsy success due to postoperative changes and anatomic position. Nondiagnostic (30%) nodes were therefore mostly central.

Conclusion:  The involvement of the central neck should be a major indication of lymph node biopsy and pathological diagnosis regardless of the imaging findings. In the lateral compartment, hypoechogenicity with loss of hilum, microcalcifications, cystic parts and an index value ≥ 0.51 are indications of a lymph node biopsy to rule out malignancy.
Coincidence of GIST and pancreatic endocrine neoplasm in neurofibromatosis
Authors: DOMINGUEZ‐COMESAÑA Elias , TOME‐ESPIÑEIRO Catherine , ULLA‐ROCHA Jose L , LORENZO‐LORENZO Isabel , LEDE‐FERNANDEZ Angel , PORTELA‐SERRA Jose L
Published: August 2011

Carcinoids of the ampulla of Vater are infrequent tumors of which a quarter of cases have been detected in patients with type I neurofibromatosis. This hereditary disease is also associated with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). However, the coincidence of these three entities together have only been formerly detected in five cases. A 53 year‐old female patient, diagnosed with type I neurofibromatosis, with a malignant carcinoid of ampulla of Vater and multiple gastrointestinal stromal tumors in the duodenum and jejunum, was treated with total pancreatectomy and the excision of her intestinal tumors. Five‐years on, a follow‐up showed the patient to be well, and free from tumor recurrence. The coexistence of an ampullary carcinoid tumor, GIST and neurofibramatosis is very rare. Radical curative surgical resection is a good treatment option, but the optimal management of this is not yet well established.
Second‐line therapy for castrate‐resistant prostate cancer: A literature review
Authors: KAO S C‐H , HOVEY E , MARX G
Published: August 2011

Despite a survival benefit in the first‐line treatment of castrate‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) with docetaxel, the prognosis remains limited. There are increasing options available for patients with CRPC in the second‐line setting, but there is currently little consensus regarding the optimal treatment. There have been numerous phase II and retrospective studies examining second‐line options in CRPC, including retreatment with docetaxel, mitoxantrone, cyclophosphamide and carboplatin, which can be associated with meaningful responses in a significant minority of patients. In 2010 three randomized trials were published or presented which demonstrated a survival benefit in the second‐line setting. These included cabazitaxel compared with mitoxantrone, sipuleucel‐T (immunotherapy) and abiraterone acetate versus placebo. Ongoing research in the second‐line setting of CRPC to optimize treatment options, with the objectives of survival prolongation, improvement in quality of life and pain management, is still needed.
Exploring consent to randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trials in oncology
Authors: TOLERTON Sarah K , SHAW Joanne , O'REILLY Amanda , DUNN Stewart , BOYLE Frances M
Published: August 2011

Aims:  Randomized placebo‐controlled trials are critical for advancing knowledge in oncology, yet little is known about optimal communication for informed consent. This study aimed to identify patient preferences for and satisfaction with three consultation styles (information‐focused, emotion‐focused and collaborative) in simulated discussions of four clinical trial concepts (randomization, placebo, tissue analysis and oncologists’ recommendation).

Methods:  In total 75 Australian cancer patients and carers, or both, viewed videotaped simulated consultations with a doctor and patient discussing a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial. Their satisfaction and preferences for both consultation style and information were assessed. The patients’ characteristics and decision‐making preferences were also evaluated as potential predictors for consultation style preference.

Results:  Participants preferred a collaborative consultation style when discussing randomization (74.6%), placebo (71.4%) and oncologist's recommendation (77%). However an emotion‐focused consultation style was preferred when discussing tissue analysis (81%). The participants represented a highly information‐seeking group, although most favoured collaborative or passive roles in treatment decision‐making. Limited variables were identified that predict consultation style preference.

Conclusion:  While supporting the value of a collaborative approach to clinical trial communications, the study finding that tissue analysis requires a more emotion‐focused approach highlights a new focus for trial communication and confirms the need for doctors to remain flexible in their consultation style.
THE EFFECTS OF WHEAT FLOUR SUBSTITUTION WITH GRAPE SEED FLOUR ON THE RHEOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF THE DOUGH ASSESSED BY MIXOLAB
Authors: MIRONEASA SILVIA , CODINĂ GEORGIANA GABRIELA , MIRONEASA COSTEL
Published: August 2011

The purpose of this investigation was to study the effect of grape seed flour (GSF) addition at the levels of 3, 5 and 7 g/100 g on the rheological behavior of the dough obtained from four types of wheat flour differentiated from a quality point of view. The rheological properties of the dough, substituted with GSF from the Aligoté variety, were recorded in the Mixolab device. The substitution has the effect of decreasing the Falling Number index simultaneously with the increase of the substitution level. The effects on the rheological properties are: the decrease of the dough's opposed torque, the increase of the dough's stability, the increase of the gelatinization temperature and the increase of the dough's opposed torque at the starch gelling, obviously improving the rheological properties of the dough, obtained from these flour mixtures. The results demonstrate the potential GSF in development composite flours.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This article brings into discussion the changes occurring as a result of the substitution of wheat flour with grape seed flour (GSF) in the rheological characteristics of wheat flour dough. The effects of the substitution level of basic wheat flour with GSF on the rheological properties of dough show that GSF can be an excellent source of food ingredient, which technological functionality is worth observing. This study can contribute to the development of new bread‐making products, improving their quality and providing health benefits.
PHYSICS AND TACTILE PERCEPTION OF FLUID‐COVERED SURFACES
Authors: GUEST STEVE , MEHRABYAN ANAHIT , ESSICK GREG , PHILLIPS NICOLA , HOPKINSON ANDREW , MCGLONE FRANCIS
Published: August 2011

Little is known about the linkage between the physical properties of fluids and how they are perceived. Therefore, 15 fluids with diverse rheologies were characterized physically by three participants via a novel “force plate” (FP) device. Perceptual ratings were made by 20 participants, of 27 “sensory” attributes (e.g., oily) and 14 “emotional” attributes (e.g., arousing). Factor analyses decomposed 14 physical measures obtained from the FP into factors approximating friction, normal vibration, and tangential vibration; the sensory attributes into watery, textured, slick, silken and viscous factors; and the emotional attributes into factors labeled pleasant, sensual and harsh. Pleasant and harsh were related to textured and silken. Fluids perceived as more watery elicited greater normal and tangential vibration and less friction, whereas high viscous scores were associated with lower vibration factor scores and increasing friction. These results emphasize the complex perceptual nature of fluid‐coated surfaces as compared with dry, solid surfaces.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

In developing consumer products that are fluid‐based (e.g., various foods or cosmetic preparations), it is desirable to reach an end goal in terms of how the fluid feels. This is achieved primarily by altering the physical composition of the fluid. The reported research established relationships between the percepts and physical composition of a diverse set of fluids. These relationships allow early insights concerning how one might formulate a product to produce a given, desirable, percept.
Hearts and Minds Project: A breastfeeding curriculum intervention to improve the education outcomes for nutrition and dietetics graduates
Authors: RADCLIFFE Barbara , PAYNE Jan
Published: August 2011

Aim:  Dietitian nutritionists play an important role in supporting and promoting breastfeeding. Improving undergraduate training to create a competent and motivated workforce to deliver these outcomes has been recommended. This study evaluated a breastfeeding curriculum intervention designed to improve knowledge, attitudes and beliefs, and increase graduates' motivation to support breastfeeding into the future.

Methods:  Final‐year students studying nutrition and dietetics were surveyed at baseline in 2005 and post‐intervention in 2010. Questions related to student profile, breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes and beliefs, perceived professional role in breastfeeding support, intentions to support breastfeeding in the future and perceptions of the breastfeeding curriculum. Curriculum interventions were based on relevant evidence including recommendations from the baseline survey report, a gap analysis of existing curriculum, previous literature identifying key barriers to the support of breastfeeding by health professionals and learning and behaviour change theories and approaches.

Results:  General improvements in knowledge and attitudes and beliefs were found over the intervention period, although knowledge gaps remained on the risks associated with not breastfeeding for mothers and infants and when to recommend the cessation of breastfeeding. A significant increase was found in the percentage of respondents agreeing that their studies had engendered a strong interest in work involving breastfeeding. Significant improvements were also seen in student perceptions of the degree to which breastfeeding was addressed in the dietetic course.

Conclusion:  Curriculum interventions can effectively influence new graduates' future intention to support and promote breastfeeding if they address knowledge gaps, attitudes, beliefs and perceived social concerns about breastfeeding promotion.
Effects of hyperoxic ventilation on 6‐h survival at the critical haemoglobin concentration aggravated by experimentally induced tachycardia in anaesthetized pigs
Authors: Kertscho H. , Lauscher P. , Raab L. , Zacharowski K. , Meier J.
Published: August 2011

Aim:  Administration of 100% oxygen [hyperoxic ventilation (HV)] has been proven to ameliorate oxygen transport, tissue oxygenation and survival in different models of extreme normovolemic and hypovolemic anaemia. However, up to date, it is unknown whether HV is also able to improve outcome of extreme anaemia if myocardial oxygen consumption is contemporaneously increased by tachycardia. Therefore, we investigated the influence of HV on the 6‐h survival rate during extreme anaemia and aggravated by experimentally induced tachycardia in a prospective, randomized study in a pig model of critical anaemia.

Methods:  After government approval, 14 anesthetized pigs mechanically ventilated on room air were haemodiluted by replacing a certain amount of whole blood with hydroxethyl starch 6% (200.000/0.5) until their individual critical haemoglobin concentration (Hbcrit) was achieved. At Hbcrit, tachycardia (180 bpm) was induced in all animals by atrial pacing. Thereafter, animals were observed for the next 6 h either at room air (FiO2 0.21; group NOX) or during HV (FiO2 1.0; group HOX) without further intervention. As primary outcome parameter of this study, the 6‐h survival rate was selected.

Results:  Hyperoxic ventilation increased the 6‐h survival rate from 14 to 100%. In contrast to the NOX group, macrohaemodynamics and oxygen transport improved in the HOX group during the observation period without apparent adverse effects of HV.

Conclusions:  Hyperoxic ventilation can be considered a safe and effective measure for the optimization of oxygen supply during extreme anaemia and despite concomitant tachycardia within 6 h. Whether HV can also be recommended beyond this period warrants further studies.
A model for using the VIPS framework for person‐centred care for persons with dementia in nursing homes: a qualitative evaluative study
Authors: Røsvik Janne , Kirkevold Marit , Engedal Knut , Brooker Dawn , Kirkevold Øyvind
Published: August 2011

røsvik j., kirkevold m., engedal k., brooker d. & kirkevold ø. (2011) A model for using the VIPS framework for person‐centred care for persons with dementia in nursing homes: a qualitative evaluative study. International Journal of Older People Nursing6, 227–236

doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2011.00290.x

Background.  The ‘VIPS’ framework sums up the elements in Kitwood’s philosophy of person‐centred care (PCC) for persons with dementia as values, individualised approach, the perspective of the person living with dementia and social environment. There are six indicators for each element.

Aim.  To conduct an initial evaluation of a model aimed at facilitating the application of the VIPS framework.

Design.  Qualitative evaluative study.

Methods.  A model was trialled in a 9‐week pilot study in two nursing homes and evaluated in four focus groups using qualitative content analysis.

Results.  Five themes emerged: (1) Legitimacy of the model was secured when central roles were held by nurses representing the majority of the staff; (2) The model facilitated the staff’s use of their knowledge of PCC; (3) Support to the persons holding the internal facilitating roles in the model was needed; (4) The authority of the leading registered nurse in the ward was crucial to support the legitimacy of the model and (5) Form of organisation seemed to be of importance in how the model was experienced.

Conclusion.  The model worked best in wards organised with a leading registered nurse who could support an auxiliary nurse holding the facilitating function.
Cruciferous Vegetable Phytochemical Sulforaphane Affects Phase II Enzyme Expression and Activity in Rat Cardiomyocytes through Modulation of Akt Signaling Pathway
Authors: Leoncini Emanuela , Malaguti Marco , Angeloni Cristina , Motori Elisa , Fabbri Daniele , Hrelia Silvana
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  The isothiocyanate sulforaphane (SF), abundant in Cruciferous vegetables, is known to induce antioxidant/detoxification enzymes in many cancer cell lines, but studies focused on its cytoprotective action in nontransformed cells are just at the beginning. Since we previously demonstrated that SF elicits cardioprotection through an indirect antioxidative mechanism, the aim of this study was to analyze the signaling pathways through which SF exerts its protective effects. Using cultured rat cardiomyocytes, we investigated the ability of SF to activate Akt/protein kinase B (PKB) and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) signaling pathways, which are implicated in cardiac cell survival, and to increase the phosphorylation of Nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) and its binding to the antioxidant response element. By means of specific inhibitors, we demonstrated that the Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt pathway represents a mechanism through which SF influences both expression and activity of glutathione reductase, glutathione‐S‐transferase, thioredoxin reductase, and NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase‐1, analyzed by western immunoblotting and spectrophotometric assay, respectively, and modulates Nrf2 binding and phosphorylation resulting in a cytoprotective action against oxidative damage. Results of this study confirm the importance of phase II enzymes modulation as cytoprotective mechanism and support the nutritional assumption of Cruciferous vegetables as source of nutraceutical cardioprotective agents.