bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cigarette Smokers, Never-Smokers, and Transitions: Implications for Successful Aging
Authors: Pruchno Rachel , Hahn Sarah , Wilson-Genderson Maureen
Published: May 2012

One of the social identities held by people is defined by whether or not they smoke cigarettes. Although this identity can and does change for many people over the course of their lives, most research has not examined the effects of transitioning from a smoker to a non-smoker. Using a life span perspective, our analyses contrasted the extent to which successful aging is experienced by: (1) persons who ever smoked and those who never smoked; (2) former smokers and current smokers; and (3) persons who transitioned from being a smoker to being a non-smoker at different ages. Using data from a random sample of 5,688 persons between the ages of 50 and 74 living in New Jersey, we found that persons who never smoked were most likely to age successfully; there were no differences in patterns of successful aging when all former smokers were compared to current smokers; and persons who quit smoking before age 30 experienced modest benefits compared with those who continued to smoke.
A Longitudinal Analysis of Social Engagement in Late-Life Widowhood
Authors: Isherwood Linda M. , King Debra S. , Luszcz Mary A.
Published: May 2012

Very little is known of the longitudinal changes that occur in contact with children and participation in social activities during late-life widowhood. Using data on social networks and activities drawn from the Australian Longitudinal Study of Ageing, trajectories of change in social engagement were modeled for 1,266 participants (mean age 76.7 years) over a 16-year period. Levels of social engagement were found to remain high during older age and rose following the transition to widowhood. Frequency of phone contact with children and participation in social activities were higher for widowed than married participants. However, the very-old, males, those in lower socio-economic groups, in poorer health, or without a child living nearby were found to have lower levels of social engagement in widowhood, and may be at increased risk of social isolation. High levels of social engagement during widowhood may assist individuals in successfully overcoming the challenges of spousal bereavement.
Factors Associated with Adl and Iadl Dependency among Korean Centenarians: Reaching the 100-Year-Old Life Transition
Authors: Kim Hyunjee , Lee Taeyong , Lee Sokgoo , Kim Keonyeop , Lee Sungkook , Kam Sin , Ahn Sangnam , Cho Jinmyoung , Ory Marcia G.
Published: May 2012

This study aims to examine the functional status of Korean centenarians, who have crossed the relatively rare but increasingly common life transition of living for a century. As functional health is one of the essential components of healthy aging, our primary objective is to identify the correlates of two aspects of functioning, activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL). Using a census survey conducted by the Korean National Statistical Office (KNSO) in 2005, we documented ADL and IADL limitations and analyzed their relationship to sociodemographic factors, health behaviors, social connectedness, and presence of diseases. The study participants were 796 adults aged 100 years or older. The mean age was 101.5 ± 1.8, and females were 89.9% of the sample. Both ADL and IADL dependences were more common among females, those who did less physical activity, those who had more diseases, and those who did not participate in social activities. Intervention programs designed to address life-stage issues such as focusing on initiating healthy behaviors from youth, managing chronic diseases in mid-life, and fostering social participation in later life are recommended ways to improve functional independence and promote healthy aging among current and future generations of Korean centenarians.
Health-Related Quality of Life as a Predictor of Mortality among Survivors of AKI
Authors: Joyce Vilija R. , Smith Mark W. , Johansen Kirsten L. , Unruh Mark L. , Siroka Andrew M. , O’Connor Theresa Z. , Palevsky Paul M.
Published: May 2012

Background and objectives

This study examined the relationship between health-related quality of life and subsequent mortality among AKI survivors treated with renal replacement therapy.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Multivariable Cox regression models were used to assess the associations between Health Utilities Index Mark 3 (HUI3) and ambulation, emotion, cognition, and pain scores at 60 days and all-cause mortality at 1 year in 60-day AKI survivors (n=439 with evaluable HUI3 assessments) from a randomized multicenter study comparing less- with more-intensive renal replacement therapies.

Results

The median 60-day HUI3 index score was 0.32. Patients with evaluable HUI3 data who died between 60 days and 1 year (n=99) were more likely to have lower 60-day median HUI3 scores, higher comorbidity scores, and longer initial hospital stays, and they were more likely to be dialysis-dependent. A 0.1 higher HUI3 index score was associated with a 17% decrease (hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% confidence interval 0.77–0.89) in all-cause mortality after controlling for clinical risk factors. Similar associations were observed for HUI3 ambulation, emotion, cognition, and pain attribute scores.

Conclusions

Health-related quality of life measured by HUI3 is an independent predictor of mortality among survivors of AKI after adjusting for clinical risk variables. Poor ambulation and other health-related quality of life attributes are also associated with increased risk of death. Health-related quality of life may provide clinicians with additional information to help identify patients at high risk of mortality after AKI that required renal replacement therapy.
Prognostic Value of Risk Score and Urinary Markers in Idiopathic Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: van den Brand Jan A.J.G. , Hofstra Julia M. , Wetzels Jack F.M.
Published: May 2012

Background and objectives

Accurate prediction of prognosis may improve management of patients with idiopathic membranous nephropathy. This study compared the Toronto Risk Score and urinary low-molecular weight proteins.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

One hundred four patients with biopsy-proven idiopathic membranous nephropathy who presented between 1995 and 2008 with a well-preserved kidney function and nephrotic range proteinuria were included. Urinary β2-microglobulin and α1-microglobulin measurements were obtained by timed standardized measurements, and the Toronto Risk Score was calculated using data obtained from medical records. The endpoint was progression, which was defined as an increase in serum creatinine>50% or >25% with a concentration>135 μmol/L.

Results

Forty-nine patients showed progression. The area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve was 0.78 (95% confidence interval=0.69–0.88) for the risk score versus 0.80 (0.71–0.89) and 0.79 (0.71–0.88) for urinary β2- and α1-microglobulin, respectively. Differences were not significant. Persistent proteinuria did not add accuracy to the Toronto Risk Score. Conversely, its accuracy was not reduced when data from the first 6 months of follow-up were used. Furthermore, a score based on GFR estimated with the six-variable Modification of Diet in Renal Disease equation, calculated in the first 6 months of follow-up, gave an area under the receiver-operating characteristics curve of 0.83 (0.74–0.92), which was not statistically different from other markers.

Conclusions

The prognostic accuracies of the Toronto Risk Score and urinary low-molecular weight proteins were not significantly different. The risk score can be calculated within 6 months of diagnosis, and a simplified risk score using estimated GFR–Modification of Diet in Renal Disease may be sufficient.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Hyperkalemia in Predialysis Patients Followed in a Low-Clearance Clinic
Authors: Sarafidis Pantelis A. , Blacklock Rochelle , Wood Eleri , Rumjon Adam , Simmonds Shanique , Fletcher-Rogers Jessica , Ariyanayagam Rachel , Al-Yassin Aziza , Sharpe Claire , Vinen Katie
Published: May 2012

Background and objectives

Recent studies evaluated the prevalence of hyperkalemia and related risk factors in patients with CKD of various stages, but there is limited relevant information in predialysis patients. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and factors associated with hyperkalemia in the structured environment of a low-clearance clinic.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

In a cross-sectional fashion over a prespecified period of 4 months, information on serum potassium and relevant laboratory variables, comorbidities, medications, and dietician input in patients with advanced CKD under follow-up in the low-clearance clinic of our department was recorded. Univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with serum potassium≥5.5 meq/L.

Results

The study population consisted of 238 patients aged 66.2±4.2 years with estimated GFR of 14.5±4.8 ml/min per 1.73 m2. The prevalence of hyperkalemia. defined as potassium>5.0, ≥5.5, and ≥6.0 meq/L., was at 54.2%, 31.5%, and 8.4%, respectively. In univariate comparisons, patients with potassium≥5.5 meq/L had significantly higher urea and lower estimated GFR and serum bicarbonate; also, they were more often using sodium bicarbonate and had received potassium education and attempts for dietary potassium lowering. Use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers was not associated with hyperkalemia. In multivariate analyses, estimated GFR<15 ml/min per 1.73 m2 and sodium bicarbonate use were independently associated with hyperkalemia.

Conclusions

The prevalence of hyperkalemia in predialysis patients with CKD is high. Even at this range of renal function, low estimated GFR seems to be the most important factor associated with hyperkalemia among the wide range of demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics studied.
Effect of anesthetic breathing circuit type on thermal loss in cats during inhalation anesthesia for ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Kelly Christopher K. , Hodgson David S. , McMurphy Rose M.
Published: May 2012

Objective—To compare the effects of a nonrebreathing circuit versus a reduced volume circle anesthetic breathing circuit on body temperature change in cats during inhalation anesthesia for ovariohysterectomy.

Design—Randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Animals—141 female domestic cats hospitalized for routine ovariohysterectomy.

Procedures—Cats were randomly assigned to receive inhalation anesthetics from either a nonrebreathing circuit or a reduced volume circle system with oxygen flow rates of 200 and 30 mL/kg/min (90.9 and 13.6 mL/lb/min), respectively. Body temperatures were monitored throughout the anesthetic period via an intrathoracic esophageal probe placed orally into the esophagus to the level of the heart base.

Results—No difference in body temperature was found between the 2 treatment groups at any measurement time. The duration of procedure had a significant effect on body temperature regardless of the type of anesthetic circuit used.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Duration of the procedure rather than the type of anesthetic circuit used for inhalation anesthesia was more influential on thermal loss in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.
Use of samarium Sm 153 lexidronam for the treatment of dogs with primary tumors of the skull: 20 cases (1986–2006)
Authors: Vancil Jarrod M. , Henry Carolyn J. , Milner Rowan J. , McCoig Amber M. , Lattimer Jimmy C. , Villamil Jose Armando , McCaw Dudley L. , Bryan Jeffrey N.
Published: May 2012

Objective—To evaluate samarium Sm 153 lexidronam (153Sm-EDTMP) as a treatment option for dogs with bony tumors of the skull.

Design—Retrospective case series.

Animals—Dogs with multilobular osteochondrosarcoma (MLO) or osteosarcoma (OSA) of the skull.

Procedures—Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital records from the Universities of Missouri and Florida from 1986 to 2006 were searched for dogs with primary skull tumors treated with 153Sm-EDTMP.

Results—25 dogs were initially evaluated, with 5 dogs subsequently excluded because of inadequate follow-up or unrelated death. Seven OSAs and 13 MLOs were diagnosed. Tumors involved the occipital and frontal bones (n = 10), zygomatic arch and maxilla region (6), palate (3), and mandible (1). No clinically important adverse effects related to 153Sm-EDTMP treatment were documented. Of the 20 dogs evaluated 21 days after injection with 153Sm-EDTMP, 4 had subjective improvement, 13 had progressive disease, and 3 had insufficient follow-up. On the basis of radiographic findings, metastasis was suspected in 1 dog; 16 dogs had no metastasis evident, and medical records were insufficient for 3 dogs. Survival time, defined as the 153Sm-EDTMP injection date to the date of death, ranged from 3 to 1,314 days (median, 144 days).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The subjective improvement in 4 patients and lack of clinical evidence of adverse effects suggested that 153Sm-EDTMP injection may be an option for the treatment of dogs with MLO or OSA of the skull when other treatments have failed or surgery is not possible.
Use of zoledronate for treatment of a bone fragility disorder in horses
Authors: Katzman Scott A. , Nieto Jorge E. , Arens Amanda M. , MacDonald Melinda H. , Puchalski Sarah M. , Galuppo Larry D. , Snyder Jack R. , Maher Omar , Bell Robin J. W.
Published: May 2012

Objective—To assess clinical outcomes and scintigraphic findings in horses with a bone fragility disorder (BFD) treated with zoledronate (a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate).

Design—Prospective uncontrolled clinical trial.

Animals—10 horses with evidence of a BFD.

Procedures—Signalment, history, and geographic location of horses' home environments were recorded. Physical examinations, lameness evaluations, and nuclear scintigraphy were performed. Diagnosis of a BFD was made on the basis of results of clinical and scintigraphic examination. Each horse was treated with zoledronate (0.075 mg/kg [0.034 mg/lb, IV, once]) at the time of diagnosis. Horses were reevaluated 6 months after treatment.

Results—Affected horses were from the central and coastal regions of California and had ≥ 1 clinical sign of the disorder; these included scapular deformation (n = 2), lordosis (1), nonspecific signs of musculoskeletal pain (1), and lameness that could not be localized to a specific anatomic region (9). All horses had multiple sites of increased radiopharmaceutica uptake during initial scintigraphic evaluation of the axial skeleton and bones of 1 or both forelimbs. Six months after treatment, clinical improvement (defined as improvement in the lameness score, resolution of signs of musculoskeletal pain, or both) was detected in 9 of 10 horses; scintigraphic uptake was unchanged (n = 2) or subjectively decreased (8). No adverse effects attributed to zoledronate treatment were detected.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Treatment with zoledronate appeared to be useful in improving clinical outcome and scintigraphic findings in horses with a BFD; however, future placebo-controlled studies are necessary to accurately determine efficacy and long-term safety.
Three-grating monolithic phase-mask for the single-order writing of large-period gratings
Authors: Bourgin Yannick , Vartiainen Ismo , Jourlin Yves , Kuittinen Markku , Celle Frédéric , Tonchev Svetlen , Parriaux Olivier , Niemi Tapio
Published: May 2012

An optimized achromatic high-efficiency monolithic phase mask is presented whose principle was demonstrated and described in reference [1]. The mask comprises three submicron period diffraction gratings at a single substrate side that create a purely single spatial frequency interferogram of large period. The optical scheme is that of an integrated Mach-Zehnder interferometer where all light circulation functions are performed by diffraction gratings. The paper describes the operation principle of the phase mask, the fabrication process, and its utilization in a write-on-the-fly scheme for the writing of a long, 2 μm-period grating.
A novel back-side light trapping structure for thin silicon solar cells
Authors: Gjessing J. , Sudbø A. S. , Marstein E. S.
Published: May 2012

Decreasing silicon consumption is one of the most important ways of reducing the cost of solar cells. High-quality light trapping provides the possibility of making thinner silicon solar cells without sacrificing optical efficiency. In this work we introduce an advanced bi-periodic back-side structure with promising light trapping properties. The structure combines high coupling efficiency of light to oblique travelling modes with the ability of keeping the light within the solar cell for multiple reflections between the front and the rear side. We have done numerical simulations of light trapping for normal incidence in our structure, and we show that our structure with real materials holds the potential to exceed the light trapping of an ideal Lambertian surface. We also investigate the behaviour of our light trapping structure as a function of incidence angle and state of polarization, and compare it to the Lambertian behaviour.
The Cold War in Swiss Classrooms
Authors: Ritzer Nadine
Published: May 2012

The Cold War had a variety of impacts on Swiss schools. This article focuses on how schools, and especially their history curricula, became the vehicle with which to launch a “National Spiritual Defense“ (Geistige Landesverteidigung) against Communism. During the Cold War era, especially in the 1950s and 1960s, teachers' journals and textbooks analyses revealed tendencies connected to a heroic, teleological master narrative of Switzerland's national history. The “cultural memory“ (Assmann) was seemingly designed to strengthen the “Swiss spirit.“ It also provided patterns from which to explain the ongoing Cold War conflict. In the 1970s, educators and politicians assigned the schools the new task of assisting in national military defense efforts.
Convection-enhanced delivery of M13 bacteriophage to the brain
Authors: Ksendzovsky Alexander , Walbridge Stuart , Saunders Richard C. , Asthagiri Ashok R. , Heiss John D. , Lonser Russell R.
Published: May 2012

Object

Recent studies indicate that M13 bacteriophage, a very large nanoparticle, binds to β-amyloid and α-synuclein proteins, leading to plaque disaggregation in models of Alzheimer and Parkinson disease. To determine the feasibility, safety, and characteristics of convection-enhanced delivery (CED) of M13 bacteriophage to the brain, the authors perfused primate brains with bacteriophage.

Methods

Four nonhuman primates underwent CED of M13 bacteriophage (900 nm) to thalamic gray matter (4 infusions) and frontal white matter (3 infusions). Bacteriophage was coinfused with Gd-DTPA (1 mM), and serial MRI studies were performed during infusion. Animals were monitored for neurological deficits and were killed 3 days after infusion. Tissues were analyzed for bacteriophage distribution.

Results

Real-time T1-weighted MRI studies of coinfused Gd-DTPA during infusion demonstrated a discrete region of perfusion in both thalamic gray and frontal white matter. An MRI-volumetric analysis revealed that the mean volume of distribution (Vd) to volume of infusion (Vi) ratio of M13 bacteriophage was 2.3 ± 0.2 in gray matter and 1.9 ± 0.3 in white matter. The mean values are expressed ± SD. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated mean Vd:Vi ratios of 2.9 ± 0.2 in gray matter and 2.1 ± 0.3 in white matter. The Gd-DTPA accurately tracked M13 bacteriophage distribution (the mean difference between imaging and actual bacteriophage Vd was insignificant [p > 0.05], and was –2.2% ± 9.9% in thalamic gray matter and 9.1% ± 9.5% in frontal white matter). Immunohistochemical analysis revealed evidence of additional spread from the initial delivery site in white matter (mean Vd:Vi, 16.1 ± 9.1). All animals remained neurologically intact after infusion during the observation period, and histological studies revealed no evidence of toxicity.

Conclusions

The CED method can be used successfully and safely to distribute M13 bacteriophage in the brain. Furthermore, additional white matter spread after infusion cessation enhances distribution of this large nanoparticle. Real-time MRI studies of coinfused Gd-DTPA (1 mM) can be used for accurate tracking of distribution during infusion of M13 bacteriophage.
Potential proneness of fetal-type posterior cerebral artery to vascular insufficiency in parent vessel occlusion of distal posterior cerebral artery aneurysms
Authors: Lv Xianli , Li Youxiang , Yang Xinjian , Jiang Chuhan , Wu Zhongxue
Published: May 2012

Object

The purpose of this study was to report the potential proneness of a fetal-type posterior cerebral artery (PCA) to develop vascular insufficiency in parent vessel occlusion of distal PCA aneurysms.

Methods

Between January 2005 and January 2011, 19 patients (9 females and 10 males) with 20 distal PCA aneurysms (16 dissecting and 4 saccular) were treated with endovascular parent vessel occlusion. The ages of the patients ranged from 5 to 71 years, with a mean age of 40.2 years. Of the 20 aneurysms, 4 were ruptured and 16 were unruptured. One of the unruptured aneurysms was additional to another ruptured aneurysm, and 15 were incidentally discovered. Five aneurysms were smaller than 10 mm, and the other 15 were 10 mm or larger.

Results

All aneurysms were successfully treated with simultaneous coil occlusion of the aneurysm and the parent PCA. One patient had hemianopia at the initial presentation, and 2 patients had new persistent hemianopia due to insufficient leptomeningeal collateral circulation; in 16 patients with an intact visual field, no hemianopia developed because there was sufficient leptomeningeal collateral circulation. A fetal-type PCA was involved in all 3 patients with hemianopia, which was initially presented or caused by parent vessel occlusion. However, in the patients without hemianopia, an adult-type PCA was involved in all cases.

Conclusions

Endovascular treatment via coil occlusion of the aneurysm as well as the parent artery can be used to cure distal PCA aneurysms. A fetal-type PCA could be an important predictive factor for vascular insufficiency in parent vessel occlusion treatment.
Physiological Consequences of Repeated Exposures to Conditioned Fear
Authors: Thompson Robert S. , Strong Paul V. , Fleshner Monika
Published: May 2012

Activation of the stress response evokes a cascade of physiological reactions that may be detrimental when repeated or chronic, and when triggered after exposure to psychological/emotional stressors. Investigation of the physiological mechanisms responsible for the health damaging effects requires animal paradigms that repeatedly evoke a response to psychological/emotional stressors. To this end, adult male Sprague Dawley rats were repeatedly exposed (2X per day for 20 days) to a context that they were conditioned to fear (conditioned fear test, CFT). Repeated exposure to CFT produced body weight loss, adrenal hypertrophy, thymic involution, and basal corticosterone elevation. In vivo biotelemetry measures revealed that CFT evokes sympathetic nervous system driven increases in heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and core body temperature. Extinction of behavioral (freezing) and physiological responses to CFT was prevented using minimal reinstatement footshock. MAP responses to the CFT did not diminish across 20 days of exposure. In contrast, HR and cardiac contractility responses declined by day 15, suggesting a shift toward vascular-dominated MAP (a pre-clinical marker of CV dysfunction). Flattened diurnal rhythms, common to stress-related mood/anxiety disorders, were found for most physiological measures. Thus, repeated CFT produces adaptations indicative of the health damaging effects of psychological/emotional stress.
Developmental Neurobiology of the Rat Attachment System and Its Modulation by Stress
Authors: Bisaz Reto , Sullivan Regina M.
Published: May 2012

Stress is a powerful modulator of brain structure and function. While stress is beneficial for survival, inappropriate stress dramatically increases the risk of physical and mental health problems, particularly when experienced during early developmental periods. Here we focus on the neurobiology of the infant rat’s odor learning system that enables neonates to learn and approach the maternal odor and describe the unique role of the stress hormone corticosterone in modulating this odor approach learning across development. During the first nine postnatal days, this odor approach learning of infant rats is supported by a wide range of sensory stimuli and ensures attachment to the mother’s odor, even when interactions with her are occasionally associated with pain. With maturation and the emergence of a stress- or pain-induced corticosterone response, this odor approach learning terminates and a more adult-like amygdala-dependent fear/avoidance learning emerges. Strikingly, the odor approach and attenuated fear learning of older pups can be re-established by the presence of the mother, due to her ability to suppress her pups’ corticosterone release and amygdala activity. This suggests that developmental changes in stress responsiveness and the stimuli that produce a stress response might be critically involved in optimally adapting the pup’s attachment system to its respective ecological niche.
Investigating Student Use of Technology for Engaged Citizenship in A Global Age
Authors: Maguth Brad M.
Published: May 2012

This study undertook a five month qualitative investigation into technology use amongst twelve high school social studies students in two different sites in the Midwestern United States. This study examined students’ use of technology and its relationship to three dimensions of citizenship in a global age: understand global events, issues, and perspectives, participate in global networks to communicate and collaborate with global audiences, and advocate on global problems and issues to think and act globally. Collecting data through semi-structured student interviews, online-threaded discussions and document analysis, I triangulated findings, and employed a qualitative approach. The study finds a relationship between student participants’ use of technology and their serving as engaged citizenship in a global age. In using technology, students accessed international news and information, joined global networks to communicate and collaborate with global audiences, and produced digital content for international audiences.
High Lipid Induction in Microalgae for Biodiesel Production
Authors: Sharma Kalpesh K. , Schuhmann Holger , Schenk Peer M.
Published: May 2012

Oil-accumulating microalgae have the potential to enable large-scale biodiesel production without competing for arable land or biodiverse natural landscapes. High lipid productivity of dominant, fast-growing algae is a major prerequisite for commercial production of microalgal oil-derived biodiesel. However, under optimal growth conditions, large amounts of algal biomass are produced, but with relatively low lipid contents, while species with high lipid contents are typically slow growing. Major advances in this area can be made through the induction of lipid biosynthesis, e.g., by environmental stresses. Lipids, in the form of triacylglycerides typically provide a storage function in the cell that enables microalgae to endure adverse environmental conditions. Essentially algal biomass and triacylglycerides compete for photosynthetic assimilate and a reprogramming of physiological pathways is required to stimulate lipid biosynthesis. There has been a wide range of studies carried out to identify and develop efficient lipid induction techniques in microalgae such as nutrients stress (e.g., nitrogen and/or phosphorus starvation), osmotic stress, radiation, pH, temperature, heavy metals and other chemicals. In addition, several genetic strategies for increased triacylglycerides production and inducibility are currently being developed. In this review, we discuss the potential of lipid induction techniques in microalgae and also their application at commercial scale for the production of biodiesel.
Young Patients’ Views on the Open Web 2.0 Childhood Diabetes Patient Portal: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Nordfeldt Sam , Berterö Carina
Published: May 2012

Little is known about the views of young patients themselves on interactive Web portal services provided by pediatric practitioners. We aimed to explore their perceptions of a real-world diabetes portal that offers facts and contact with peers and practitioners; e.g., discussion forums, blog tools, self-care and treatment information, research updates and news from local practitioners. Twelve young patients (ages 12–21, median 15 years), one boyfriend, 7 mothers and one father each wrote an essay on their experience from use of the portal. Their essays underwent qualitative content analysis. A major theme was “Helping and facilitating daily life with diabetes”, the portal was perceived as a place where contents are interesting, inspiring and may trigger users’ curiosity. There were three subthemes; “Ease of use in my everyday life,” which includes the perception that the portal was perceived as smooth and easy to enter and navigate whenever needed; that information was easy to understand for different groups of users. “Support via an exchange of experience,” includes the ability to contact peers being regarded advantageous. Some said that just reading others’ experiences can be helpful in terms of persevering; children could find peers in the same age group. “Evidence based information,” includes the perception of the portal being a useful and trustworthy source of facts on e.g., physical activity, blood glucose, medical devices, emotional wellbeing, food and nutrition, and other aspects that impact living with diabetes. Young users expressed positive perceptions towards the interactive web portal. Such services seem to have great potential for supporting young patients and significant others - intergrading for confidence.
Wars and Suicides in Israel, 1948–2006
Authors: Oron (Ostre) Israel
Published: May 2012

This paper reports the characteristics of suicides which occurred during the existential and the non-existential wars in Israel. It provides a first approximation of whether the suicide patterns in each war are consistent with the findings of Morselli and Durkheim, and whether their theoretical interpretations can serve as a preliminary guideline to explaining the Israeli case, which is characterized by short periods of war, social integration during some of the non-existential wars, and a sharp rise in post-war male suicide rates following all of the existential wars. Implications for further studies on the subject in Israel and elsewhere are discussed.
The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Pathway: A Key Component of the microRNA-Mediated AML Signalisome
Authors: Rager Julia E. , Fry Rebecca C.
Published: May 2012

Recent research has spotlighted the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) as critical epigenetic regulators of hematopoietic stem cell differentiation and leukemia development. Despite the recent advances in knowledge surrounding epigenetics and leukemia, the mechanisms underlying miRNAs’ influence on leukemia development have yet to be clearly elucidated. Our aim was to identify high ranking biological pathways altered at the gene expression level and under epigenetic control. Specifically, we set out to test the hypothesis that miRNAs dysregulated in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) converge on a common pathway that can influence signaling related to hematopoiesis and leukemia development. We identified genes altered in AML patients that are under common regulation of seven key miRNAs. By mapping these genes to a global interaction network, we identified the “AML Signalisome”. The AML Signalisome comprises 53 AML-associated molecules, and is enriched for proteins that play a role in the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) pathway, a major regulator of hematopoiesis. Furthermore, we show biological enrichment for hematopoiesis-related proteins within the AML Signalisome. These findings provide important insight into miRNA-regulated pathways in leukemia, and may help to prioritize targets for disease prevention and treatment.
The Role of Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE) in the Proliferation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yaser Al-Madhagi , Huang Yan , Zhou Rong-Rong , Hu Guan-Sheng , Xiao Mei-Fang , Huang Zhe-Bing , Duan Chao-Jun , Tian Wei , Tang Dao-Lin , Fan Xue-Gong
Published: May 2012

The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is oncogenic and overexpressed in human cancers, but its role in hepatocellular carcinoma remains unclear. Here we demonstrated that RAGE is overexpressed in primary hepatocellular carcinoma (PHC) compared to adjacent para-neoplastic liver samples. Serum endogenous secretory RAGE levels were also increased in PHC patients (p < 0.01). Moreover, we demonstrated that RAGE regulates cellular proliferation in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Knockdown of RAGE by specific siRNA inhibited cellular growth in the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line, Huh7, whereas the RAGE ligand, high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) increased cellular proliferation. In addition, knockdown of RAGE by siRNA arrested cells in the G1 phase and inhibited DNA synthesis (p < 0.01), while HMGB1 protein decreased the number of cells in the G1 phase and increased the number in the S phase (p < 0.05). Furthermore, quantitative real time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western Blot results demonstrated that RAGE and HMGB1 positively regulate NF-κB p65 expression in Huh7 cells. These studies suggest that RAGE and RAGE ligands are important targets for therapeutic intervention in hepatocellular carcinoma.
Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationship Studies on Indenoisoquinoline Topoisomerase I Inhibitors as Anticancer Agents in Human Renal Cell Carcinoma Cell Line SN12C
Authors: Zhi Yi , Yang Jin , Tian Shengchao , Yuan Fang , Liu Yang , Zhang Yi , Sun Pinghua , Song Bo , Chen Zhiwen
Published: May 2012

Topoisomerase I is important for DNA replication and cell division, making it an attractive drug target for anticancer therapy. A series of indenoisoquinolines displaying potent Top1 inhibitory activity in human renal cell carcinoma cell line SN12C were selected to establish 3D-QSAR models using CoMFA and CoMSIA methods. Internal and external cross-validation techniques were investigated, as well as some measures taken, including region focusing, bootstrapping and the “leave-group-out” cross-validation method. The satisfactory CoMFA model predicted a q2 value of 0.659 and an r2 value of 0.949, indicating that electrostatic and steric properties play a significant role in potency. The best CoMSIA model, based on a combination of steric, electrostatic and H-bond acceptor descriptors, predicted a q2 value of 0.523 and an r2 value of 0.902. The models were graphically interpreted by contour plots which provided insight into the structural requirements for increasing the activity of a compound, providing a solid basis for future rational design of more active anticancer agents.
Physiochemical, Optical and Biological Activity of Chitosan-Chromone Derivative for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Koh Joonseok
Published: May 2012

This paper describes the physiochemical, optical and biological activity of chitosan-chromone derivative. The chitosan-chromone derivative gels were prepared by reacting chitosan with chromone-3-carbaldehyde, followed by solvent exchange, filtration and drying by evaporation. The identity of Schiff base was confirmed by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The chitosan-chromone derivative was evaluated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), photoluminescence (PL) and circular dichroism (CD). The CD spectrum showed the chitosan-chromone derivative had a secondary helical structure. Microbiological screening results demonstrated the chitosan-chromone derivative had antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli bacteria. The chitosan-chromone derivative did not have any adverse effect on the cellular proliferation of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) and did not lead to cellular toxicity in MEFs. These results suggest that the chitosan-chromone derivative gels may open a new perspective in biomedical applications.
The Three Dimensional Quantitative Structure Activity Relationships (3D-QSAR) and Docking Studies of Curcumin Derivatives as Androgen Receptor Antagonists
Authors: Xu Guanhong , Chu Yanyan , Jiang Nan , Yang Jing , Li Fei
Published: May 2012

Androgen receptor antagonists have been proved to be effective anti-prostate cancer agents. 3D-QSAR and Molecular docking methods were performed on curcumin derivatives as androgen receptor antagonists. The bioactive conformation was explored by docking the potent compound 29 into the binding site of AR. The constructed Comparative Molecular Field Analysis (CoMFA) and Comparative Similarity Indices Analysis (CoMSIA) models produced statistically significant results with the cross-validated correlation coefficients q2 of 0.658 and 0.567, non-cross-validated correlation coefficients r2 of 0.988 and 0.978, and predicted correction coefficients r2pred of 0.715 and 0.793, respectively. These results ensure the CoMFA and CoMSIA models as a tool to guide the design of novel potent AR antagonists. A set of 30 new analogs were proposed by utilizing the results revealed in the present study, and were predicted with potential activities in the developed models.
Simple and Rapid Molecular Techniques for Identification of Amylose Levels in Rice Varieties
Authors: Cheng Acga , Ismail Ismanizan , Osman Mohamad , Hashim Habibuddin
Published: May 2012

The polymorphisms of Waxy (Wx) microsatellite and G-T single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the Wx gene region were analyzed using simplified techniques in fifteen rice varieties. A rapid and reliable electrophoresis method, MetaPhor agarose gel electrophoresis (MAGE), was effectively employed as an alternative to polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) for separating Wx microsatellite alleles. The amplified products containing the Wx microsatellite ranged from 100 to 130 bp in length. Five Wx microsatellite alleles, namely (CT)10, (CT)11, (CT)16, (CT)17, and (CT)18 were identified. Of these, (CT)11 and (CT)17 were the predominant classes among the tested varieties. All varieties with an apparent amylose content higher than 24% were associated with the shorter repeat alleles; (CT)10 and (CT)11, while varieties with 24% or less amylose were associated with the longer repeat alleles. All varieties with intermediate and high amylose content had the sequence AGGTATA at the 5'-leader intron splice site, while varieties with low amylose content had the sequence AGTTATA. The G-T polymorphism was further verified by the PCR-AccI cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (CAPS) method, in which only genotypes containing the AGGTATA sequence were cleaved by AccI. Hence, varieties with desirable amylose levels can be developed rapidly using the Wx microsatellite and G-T SNP, along with MAGE.
Optimization of Hydrolysis Conditions for the Production of Angiotensin-I Converting Enzyme-Inhibitory Peptides and Isolation of a Novel Peptide from Lizard Fish (Saurida elongata) Muscle Protein Hydrolysate
Authors: Wu Shanguang , Sun Jianhua , Tong Zhangfa , Lan Xiongdiao , Zhao Zhongxing , Liao Dankui
Published: May 2012

Lizard fish (Saurida elongata) muscle protein was hydrolyzed using neutral protease to produce protein hydrolysate (LFPH), and the hydrolysis conditions were investigated using response-surface methodology. The optimum conditions for producing peptides with the highest angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE)-inhibitory activity were the following: enzyme-to-substrate ratio of 10,000 U/g, temperature of 48 °C, pH 7.0, and hydrolysis time of 2 h. Under these conditions, the ACE-inhibitory activity of LFPH and the degree of hydrolysis were 84% and 24%, respectively. A novel ACE-inhibitory peptide was isolated from LFPH using ultrafiltration, Sephadex G-15, and high-performance liquid chromatography. The amino acid sequence of the ACE-inhibitory peptide was identified as Ser-Pro-Arg-Cys-Arg (SPRCR), and its IC50 was 41 ± 1 µM.
Tropical Plant Extracts as Potential Antihyperglycemic Agents
Authors: Manaharan Thamilvaani , Palanisamy Uma Devi , Ming Cheng Hwee
Published: May 2012

Preliminary investigations on 14 plant extracts (obtained by ethanolic and aqueous extraction) identified those having high antioxidant and a significant total phenolic content. Antihyperglycemic, a-amylase and a-glucosidase inhibition activities were also observed. A correlation between the antihyperglycemic activity, total phenolic content and antioxidant (DPPH scavenging) activity was established. To further substantiate these findings, the possibility of tannins binding non-specifically to enzymes and thus contributing to the antihyperglycemic activity was also investigated. Our study clearly indicated that the antihyperglycemic activity observed in the plant extracts was indeed not due to non-specific tannin absorption.
Scope and Limitations of a Novel Synthesis of 3-Arylazonicotinates
Authors: Zaky Omniya Sayed , Moustafa Moustafa Sherief , Selim Maghraby Ali , El-Maghraby Awatef Mohamed , Elnagdi Mohamed Hilmy
Published: May 2012

The reaction of 3-oxo-3-phenyl-2-phenylhydrazonal with functionally substituted and heteroaromatic substituted acetonitrile to yield arylazonicotinic acid derivatives and 5-arylsubstituted pyridines was established. In some cases the produced nicotinates could not be isolated as they underwent thermally induced 6π-electrocyclization yielding polynuclear pyridine derivatives.
Inhibitory Effect and Mechanism on Antiproliferation of Isoatriplicolide Tiglate (PCAC) from Paulownia Coreana
Authors: Jung Samil , Moon Hyung-In , Ohk Jiyeon , Lee Soonduck , Li Chengping , Kim Soo-Ki , Lee Myeong-Sok
Published: May 2012

Paulownia coreana has traditionally been used as the medicine and health food in the treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. In the present study, a new antiproliferation agent, isoatriplicolide tiglate (PCAC) was isolated from the chloroform soluble fraction of the leaves of Paulownia coreana. The antiproliferation activities of PCAC plant extract was examined in breast and cervical cancer cell lines in a time-and dose-dependent manners. Our in vitro experiments showed that PCAC suppresses the cell growth and proliferation of cancer cells at a relatively low concentration ( < 10 µg/mL) and induces apoptosis at a high concentration ( > 50 µg/mL). Western blot analysis showed that concentration higher than 50 µg/mL induces a time-dependent increase in the percentage of apoptotic cells. In this case, PCAC uses both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways for the apoptosis. PCAC treatment decreased the expression of pro-caspase 8, 9, and 3, the main regulators of apoptotic cell death, in MDA-MB-231 cells, accompanied by the activation of caspase 8, 9, and 3. More importantly, PCAC inhibited the in vitro proliferation of six other human breast and cervical cancer cell lines. In conclusion, our data strongly suggest that PCAC acts as an antiproliferation agents particularly against breast and cervical cancers by inducing cell cycle arrest in the S/G2 phase and caspase dependent apoptosis at relatively low ( < 10 μg/mL) and high ( > 50 µg/mL) concentrations, respectively.
Antibacterial Evaluation of Some Schiff Bases Derived from 2-Acetylpyridine and Their Metal Complexes
Authors: Gwaram Nura Suleiman , Ali Hapipah Mohd , Khaledi Hamid , Abdulla Mahmood Ameen , Hadi A. Hamid A. , Lin Thong Kwai , Ching Chai Lay , Ooi Cher Lin
Published: May 2012

A series of Schiff bases derived from 2-acetylpyridne and their metal complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, NMR, FT-IR and UV-Vis spectral studies. The complexes were screened for anti-bacterial activity against Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Acinetobacter baumanni (AC), Klebsiella pneumonie (KB) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) using the disc diffusion and micro broth dilution assays. Based on the overall results, the complexes showed the highest activities against MRSA while a weak antibacterial activity was observed against A. baumanii and P. aeruginosa.
Preparation of Curcumin-Loaded Liposomes and Evaluation of Their Skin Permeation and Pharmacodynamics
Authors: Chen Yan , Wu Qingqing , Zhang Zhenghai , Yuan Ling , Liu Xuan , Zhou Lei
Published: May 2012

This study aimed to investigate the in vitro skin permeation and in vivo antineoplastic effect of curcumin by using liposomes as the transdermal drug-delivery system. Soybean phospholipids (SPC), egg yolk phospholipids (EPC), and hydrogenated soybean phospholipids (HSPC) were selected for the preparation of different kinds of phospholipids composed of curcumin-loaded liposomes: C-SPC-L (curcumin-loaded SPC liposomes), C-EPC-L (curcumin-loaded EPC liposomes), and C-HSPC-L (curcumin-loaded HSPC liposomes). The physical properties of different lipsomes were investigated as follows: photon correlation spectroscopy revealed that the average particle sizes of the three types of curcumin-loaded liposomes were 82.37 ± 2.19 nm (C-SPC-L), 83.13 ± 4.89 nm (C-EPC-L), and 92.42 ± 4.56 nm (C-HSPC-L), respectively. The encapsulation efficiency values were found to be 82.32 ± 3.91%, 81.59 ± 2.38%, and 80.77 ± 4.12%, respectively. An in vitro skin penetration study indicated that C-SPC-L most significantly promoted drug permeation and deposition followed by C-EPC-L, C-HSPC-L, and curcumin solution. Moreover, C-SPC-L displayed the greatest ability of all loaded liposomes to inhibit the growth of B16BL6 melanoma cells. Therefore, the C-SPC-L were chosen for further pharmacodynamic evaluation. A significant effect on antimelanoma activity was observed with C-SPC-L, as compared to treatment with curcumin solution in vivo. These results suggest that C-SPC-L would be a promising transdermal carrier for curcumin in cancer treatment.
A Sandwich HIV p24 Amperometric Immunosensor Based on a Direct Gold Electroplating-Modified Electrode
Authors: Zheng Lei , Jia Liyong , Li Bo , Situ Bo , Liu Qinlan , Wang Qian , Gan Ning
Published: May 2012

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a severe communicable immune deficiency disease caused by the human immune deficiency virus (HIV). The analysis laboratory diagnosis of HIV infection is a crucial aspect of controlling AIDS. The p24 antigen, the HIV-1 capsid protein, is of considerable diagnostic interest because it is detectable several days earlier than host-generated HIV antibodies following HIV exposure. We present herein a new sandwich HIV p24 immunosensor based on directly electroplating an electrode surface with gold nanoparticles using chronoamperometry, which greatly increased the conductivity and reversibility of the electrode. Under optimum conditions, the electrochemical signal showed a linear relationship with the concentration of p24, ranging from 0.01 ng/mL to 100 ng/mL (R > 0.99), and the detection limit was 0.008 ng/mL. Compared with ELISA, this method increased the sensitivity by more than two orders of magnitude (the sensitivity of ELISA for p24 is about 1 ng/mL). This immunosensor may be broadly applied to clinical samples, being distinguished by its ease of use, mild reaction conditions, guaranteed reproducibility, and good anti-interference ability.