bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
67-kDa Laminin Receptor in Human Bile Duct Carcinoma
Authors: Li D. , Chen J. , Gao Z. , Li X. , Yan X. , Xiong Y. , Wang S.
Published: January 2009

Background/Aim: Abnormal interaction of epithelial cells with laminin component of basement membrane may account for altered biological behavior of cells, influencing proliferation, adhesion, and motility. In the current study, we investigated the role of 67-kDa laminin receptor (67LR), a high affinity receptor for laminin, in aggressiveness of bile duct carcinoma. Methods: Fifty-two paraffin-embedded specimens and 22 fresh tissues of patients with bile duct carcinoma were analyzed using immunohistologic and real-time polymerase chain reaction techniques, respectively. Expression of 67LR on the bile duct carcinoma QBC939 cells was examined by flow cytometry. The effects of 67LR on the adhesive and invasive abilities of QBC939 cells were determined by adhesion and invasion assay in vitro. Results: Both at the mRNA and protein level, bile duct carcinoma cells expressed a higher level of 67LR than normal epithelial cells (p < 0.01). The expression of 67LR was correlated inversely with differentiation extent of tumor (p < 0.05). The 67LR level was significantly increased in patients with lymph node metastases than in patients without lymph node involvement (p < 0.01). Flow cytometry showed that 69.9 ± 1.1% of QBC939 cells expressed 67LR. Expression of 67LR increased the adhesion and invasion of QBC939 cells. 60 and 120 min of incubation of 67LR antibodies, MLuC5, induced 46.3 ± 2.2 and 61.3 ± 2.1% inhibition of adhesion, respectively. The invasive ability of QBC939 cells to Matrigel was also reduced by 67LR antibodies, MLuC5. Conclusions: Overexpressing 67LR on bile duct carcinoma was associated with invasion and metastasis of bile duct carcinoma. Blockage of 67LR suppressed adhesion and invasion of bile duct carcinoma.
The Ophthalmoscope: Helmholtz’s Augenspiegel
Authors: Pearce J.M.S.
Published: January 2009

The origins of Helmholtz’s invention of the ophthalmoscope are found in the ancient observation that the back of the eye appeared black. In 1703, Jean Méry reported that the luminosity of the cat’s eye could be seen when the animal was held under water, and Mariotte observed that a dog’s eye was luminous but erroneously thought this was because its choroid was white. Prévost made a breakthrough when he deduced it was incident light and not light coming out of the eye. Purkinje and von Brücke used lenses to attempt to see the fundus and almost succeeded. However, it was Helmholtz who created the first useable ophthalmoscope, whose development and clinical application are traced in this paper. One of the greatest physical scientists in many spheres of learning, his biography is briefly sketched.
Multisubstance Use as a Feature of Addiction to Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids
Authors: Skarberg Kurt , Nyberg Fred , Engstrom Ingemar
Published: January 2009

The aim of this study was to explore and describe total drug use among anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) users and the reasons given for the use of these drugs. The study was based on semi-structured interviews and questionnaires involving 32 patients who were attending an addiction centre in Orebro, Sweden, for AAS use. The results indicated that a history of polysubstance use among the patients was frequent. Over half were using drugs of abuse and also taking various other pharmaceuticals. Almost half of the patients took human growth hormones, and almost half of the interviewed persons were drinking alcohol to a hazardous or harmful extent. The most common reason given for taking AAS and other hormones was to increase muscle mass and strength, but some participants also used insulin as a means of losing fat. Cannabis was used to improve sleep, heroin to decrease pain and amphetamine to increase endurance and burn fat. Our data suggest that most of the current AAS users who have been admitted to a treatment programme are multiple drug users with polysubstance dependence. The study stresses the importance of carefully examining total drug use as part of the assessment regimen for this group.
Effect of Oxcarbazepine in the Treatment of Agitation and Aggression in Severe Dementia
Authors: Sommer Oskar H. , Aga Olav , Cvancarova Milada , Olsen Inge C. , Selbaek Geir , Engedal Knut
Published: January 2009

Background/Aims: To evaluate the efficacy of oxcarbazepine (OXC) in the treatment of agitation and aggression in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, vascular dementia or both. Methods: This is an 8-week, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial carried out independently of the pharmaceutical industry. Changes in the agitation and aggression subscore of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) were the primary outcomes. The secondary out- comes were the changes in the caregivers’ total burden scores (measured by the NPI) and changes in the Brief Agitation Rating Scale (BARS). Results: In total, 103 institutionalized patients at 35 sites were randomized to the trial. After 8 weeks, no statistically significant differences were found between the 2 groups for all outcomes. A trend was observed in favor of the OXC group in the reduction in the scores on the BARS (p = 0.07). Conclusion: This study found no significant effect of OXC in treatment of agitation and aggression in patients with dementia.
Dominant-Negative Loss of PPARγ Function Enhances Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation, Migration, and Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Meredith Dane , Panchatcharam Manikandan , Miriyala Sumitra , Tsai Yau-Sheng , Morris Andrew J. , Maeda Nobuyo , Stouffer George A. , Smyth Susan S.
Published: January 2009

Objective—

The peroxisome proliferator activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) protein is a nuclear transcriptional activator with importance in diabetes management as the molecular target for the thiazolidinedione (TZD) family of drugs. Substantial evidence indicates that the TZD family of PPARγ agonists may retard the development of atherosclerosis. However, recent clinical data have suggested that at least one TZD may increase the risk of myocardial infarction and death from cardiovascular disease. In this study, we used a genetic approach to disrupt PPARγ signaling to probe the protein’s role in smooth muscle cell (SMC) responses that are important for atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

SMC isolated from transgenic mice harboring the dominate-negative P465L mutation in PPARγ (PPARγ
L/+
) exhibited greater proliferation and migration then did wild-type cells. Upregulation of ETS-1, but not ERK activation, correlated with enhanced proliferative and migratory responses PPARγ
L/+
SMCs. After arterial injury, PPARγ
L/+
mice had a ≈4.3-fold increase in the development of intimal hyperplasia.

Conclusion—

These findings are consistent with a normal role for PPARγ in inhibiting SMC migration and proliferation in the context of restenosis or atherosclerosis.
Motor Imagery After Subcortical Stroke
Authors: Sharma Nikhil , Simmons Lucy H. , Jones P. Simon , Day Diana J. , Carpenter T. Adrian , Pomeroy Valerie M. , Warburton Elizabeth A. , Baron Jean-Claude
Published: January 2009

Background and Purpose—

In recovered subcortical stroke, the pattern of motor network activation during motor execution can appear normal or not, depending on the task. Whether this applies to other aspects of motor function is unknown. We used functional MRI to assess motor imagery (MI), a promising new approach to improve motor function after stroke, and contrasted it to motor execution.

Methods—

Twenty well-recovered patients with hemiparetic subcortical stroke (14 males; mean age, 66.5 years) and 17 aged-matched control subjects were studied. Extensive behavioral screening excluded 8 patients and 4 control subjects due to impaired MI abilities. Subjects performed MI and motor execution of a paced finger–thumb opposition sequence using a functional MRI paradigm that monitored compliance. Activation within the primary motor cortex (BA4a and 4p), dorsal premotor, and supplementary motor areas was examined.

Results—

The pattern of activation during affected-hand motor execution was not different from control subjects. Affected-hand MI activation was also largely similar to control subjects, including involvement of BA4, but with important differences: (1) unlike control subjects and the nonaffected hand, activation in BA4a and dorsal premotor was not lower during MI as compared with motor execution; (2) the hemispheric balance of BA4p activation was significantly less lateralized than control subjects; and (3) ipsilesional BA4p activation positively correlated with motor performance.

Conclusions—

In well-recovered subcortical stroke, the motor system, including ipsilesional BA4, is activated during MI despite the lesion. It, however, remains disorganized in proportion to residual motor impairment. Thus, components of movement upstream from execution appear differentially affected after stroke and could be targeted by rehabilitation in more severely affected patients.
Retrograde Embolism From the Descending Aorta
Authors: Harloff Andreas , Strecker Christoph , Dudler Patrick , Nuβbaumer Andrea , Frydrychowicz Alex , Olschewski Manfred , Bock Jelena , Stalder Aurelien F. , Stroh Anna L. , Weiller Cornelius , Hennig Jürgen , Markl Michael
Published: January 2009

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to determine the role of plaques ≥4 mm and thrombi (complex plaques) in the descending aorta (DAo) as an embolic high-risk source for stroke.

Methods—

In 63 acute stroke patients scheduled for TEE, territory and embolic pattern of brain ischemia were prospectively assessed. Multidirectional 3D MRI velocity mapping of the aorta was performed to correlate the extent of retrograde diastolic blood flow with the distance of complex DAo plaques from the left subclavian artery (LSA). Embolic risk from the DAo was present for (1) retrograde flow connecting complex DAo plaques with the LSA, (2) embolic pattern of brain ischemia in a territory supplied by the left vertebral artery, and (3) stroke that could not be explained by other means.

Results—

33 of 63 patients had complex DAo plaques (distance to LSA 28.1±29.9 mm). Mean retrograde flow in these subjects was 26.2±12.3 mm. In 20 of 63 patients (31.7%) retrograde flow connected complex DAo plaques with the LSA. In 4 of these 20 patients (20%) with an embolic stroke in the territory of the brain stem, cerebellum or posterior cerebral artery, etiology could not be explained by other means.

Conclusions—

Substantial diastolic retrograde flow originating from complex plaques in the descending aorta was detected by multidirectional 3D MRI velocity mapping and constitutes a stroke mechanism that was previously not demonstrable.
The Role of Protestantism in Democratic Consolidation Among Transitional States
Authors: Tusalem Rollin F.
Published: January 2009

Previous studies have examined the causal link between Protestantism and democratization, primarily in shaping a nation-state's cultural ethos and its tendency to affect the outcome of democratic politics. Historically, Protestantism has also been linked to generating a political culture that promotes individualism, tolerance, the pluralism of ideas, and civic associationalism. Recent empirical evidence also shows how Protestant countries are more likely to be democratic compared to largely Islamic and Catholic states. Drawing from established cultural theories, the author empirically tests the argument whether or not transitional states with larger Protestant populations are more likely to strengthen their democracies. Findings indicate that transitional states that have higher Protestant populations are more likely to have higher levels of voice and accountability, political stability, citizenship empowerment, and civil society pluralism. The author contends that transitional states with higher Protestant populations are more likely to consolidate their democracies.
Candidate Selection Procedures, Seniority, and Vote-Seeking Behavior
Authors: Shomer Yael
Published: January 2009

It has been argued that inclusive and decentralized selection procedures create greater incentives for parliamentarians to enhance their personal reputations. However, while the observable implications of this theory are at the level of individual members, the empirical data often brought to bear on this question to date have been collected at an aggregate level—the partisan bloc or legislative term. Despite some previously positive aggregate results, the author finds no discernible support for the connection between candidate selection procedures and vote-seeking behavior in Israel at the individual parliamentarian level. The author suggests an alternative theory—based on the stage of the legislative career—that explains both individual-level behavior and the aggregate-level trend.
Fatherhood Across Two Generations
Authors: Goldscheider Frances , Hofferth Sandra , Spearin Carrie , Curtin Sally
Published: January 2009

This article examines the determinants of men's early parental roles, distinguishing factors that affect being a father versus being childless, and factors that affect being a resident versus a nonresident father, in the context of having a partner or not. We also consider whether these patterns have changed between 1985 and 2004. The data come from the linked Child-Mother and Young Adult Samples of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1979 (NLSY79), which provide information on the children of the NLSY79 from birth until they enter young adulthood, and from the original youth sample of parallel ages. The results support previous research showing the importance of economic and educational disadvantages and nontraditional family structure on being a nonresident father. The effects of family structure appear to have attenuated between generations as determinants of men's early parental roles.
Communication in Medical Records
Authors: Hewett David G. , Watson Bernadette M. , Gallois Cindy , Ward Michael , Leggett Barbara A.
Published: January 2009

Communication failures in the complex environment of hospital care affect the quality of care and occurrence of inadvertent harm. This study investigated doctors' written communication using a sample of medical records, specifically doctors' progress notes, and the frameworks of social identity and communication accommodation theories. These records include standardized and stylized language, and are intended to record assessment and treatment of patients according to known guidelines for practice. An interpretive analysis of the language and discourse in these records revealed that doctors used medical record entries both to express their specialty identity and to negotiate intergroup conflict. Nonaccommodation and interspecialty conflict sometimes took precedence over facilitation of patient treatment and management. Thus, intergroup communication in this context can constitute a serious threat to the quality of patient care.
A New Structure of Attention?
Authors: Iedema Rick , Jorm Christine , Wakefield John , Ryan Cherie , Sorensen Ros
Published: January 2009

This article presents an inquiry into how clinicians realize a health policy reform initiative called Open Disclosure. Open Disclosure mandates that discussions with patients/family and team staff about “adverse events” are now no longer ad hoc, individualized, and without consequences for how the work is done, but planned, collaborative, and leading to systems change. The article presents an empirical analysis of a corpus of interviews about the impact of Open Disclosure on clinicians' practices. It situates Open Disclosure in the context of arguments that health care workers are increasingly expected to do “emotional labor” with patients and their families, in that staff are advised to practise “reflexive listening” as a means of managing patients' and family members' emotions in response to incidents. The analysis suggests that thanks to the intensity of Open Disclosure interactions, clinicians may be introduced to an affective-interactive space that they were hitherto unaware of and unable to enter or attain what Nigel Thrift calls “a new structure of attention.”
The Cost-Effectiveness of Screening for Hereditary Hemochromatosis in Germany: A Remodeling Study
Authors: Rogowski Wolf H.
Published: January 2009

Objective . Genetic tests for hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) are currently included in the German ambulatory care reimbursement scheme but only for symptomatic individuals and the offspring of HH patients. This study synthesizes the most current evidence to examine whether screening in the broader population is cost-effective and to identify the best choice of initial and follow-up screening tests. Methods . A probabilistic decision-analytic model was constructed to calculate cost per life year gained (LYG) for HH screening among male Caucasians aged 30. Three strategies were considered in both the general population and male offspring of HH patients: phenotypic (transferrin saturation, TS), genotypic (C282Y mutation), and sequential (genotype if TS is elevated) screening. Results . The incremental cost-effectiveness of sequential screening among male offspring, sequential population-wide screening, and genotypic screening is 41 000, 124 000, and 161 000 /LYG, respectively. All other strategies were subject to simple or extended dominance. The results are subject to high uncertainty. The most influential parameters in the deterministic one-way sensitivity analysis are discounting of life years gained and the adherence of patients to preventive phlebotomy. Discussion . The current German policy of only screening at-risk individuals is consistent with health economic decision making based on typically accepted thresholds. However, conducting the DNA test after the first elevated TS result is more cost-effective than waiting for a second TS result as recommended by the German guidelines. Further empirical work regarding adherence to long-term prevention recommendations and explicit and well-justified guidance for the choice of discount rates in German economic evaluation are needed.
Residual Stresses in Composite Plates with Central Filleted Hole
Authors: Akbulut Hamit , Şenel Mehmet
Published: January 2009

This article deals with the residual stresses in stainless steel fiber-reinforced aluminum composite plates under in-plane loading that have a central filleted hole. In many cases, the residual stresses in the plates increase ability to carry a larger load. The dimensions of the central hole vary from square to circle by increasing fillet radii at the corners. In the study, the effects of the hole dimension, the fillet radius, and the orientation angles on the residual stresses are investigated using the finite element method (FEM) software ANSYS. Results are presented in tabular and graphical forms.
Development of Recycled Polypropylene Matrix Composites Reinforced with Fly Ash
Authors: Das Keya , Ray Dipa , Adhikary Kuntal , Bandyopadhyay N.R. , Mohanty A.K. , Misra Manjusri
Published: January 2009

Utilization of recycled polypropylene obtained from post-consumer products and fly ash particles, obtained as a by-product from thermal power plants, has environmental as well as economical benefits for society. A valuable addition can be made to these waste materials by converting them into composite materials. In this study, an attempt has been made to develop a composite material from RPP and fly ash in 1 : 1 weight ratio, using two types of coupling agents. A silane coupling agent (VTMO) and a maleated polypropylene (Epolene G 3003) were used as the coupling agents. The composites were characterized for their flexural properties, water absorption behavior, and thermal degradation behavior. There was a significant improvement in properties when VTMO was used as the coupling agent compared to Epolene.
Controllability of Structural Performance of RC Panels Modified with Optimal Fiber Hybridization System
Authors: Wafa Mahmoud A.
Published: January 2009

This article focuses on the experimental investigation carried out on controllability of structural performance of RC panels modified with optimal fiber hybridization system (hybrid combination of steel and polypropylene fibers) up to a volume fraction of 1.0%. Strength effectiveness of the mechanical properties, namely, compressive and splitting tensile strength as well as the structural performance of RC panels modified with optimal fiber hybridization system were studied. The results clarify that the optimal fiber hybridization system is seen to enhance the strength effectiveness of mechanical properties, the controllability-efficient of structural performance of RC panels as cracking behavior, and load—deflection curves, causing an increase in flexural ductility, toughness, and load-carrying capacity. Consequently, the hybrid combination of steel and polypropylene fibers can be used instead of individual fibers, in which innovation and responsible application of concrete construction technology results in better efficiency of the composite.
Mechanical Performance of Hemp Fiber Polypropylene Composites at Different Operating Temperatures
Authors: Tajvidi Mehdi , Motie Nazanin , Rassam Ghonche , Falk Robert H. , Felton Colin
Published: January 2009

In order to quantify the effect of temperature on the mechanical properties of hemp fiber polypropylene composites, formulations containing 25% and 40% (by weight) hemp fiber were produced and tested at three representative temperatures of 256, 296, and 336 K. Flexural, tensile, and impact tests, as well as dynamic mechanical analysis, were performed and the reduction in mechanical properties were evaluated. Impact resistance was independent of temperature, whereas flexural and tensile properties were strongly affected. The highest reductions were observed in stiffness (modulus) values and flexural properties were reduced to a higher degree. The reductions in mechanical properties were well explained by a simple quadratic curve-fitting procedure applied to experimental data. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed no change in glass transition temperature when the fiber content was increased but the composite material had better temperature resistance at higher fiber content. The results of the present study will be helpful in determining the end-use application of these composite materials.
The Effect of Overeducation on Job Content Innovation and Career-Enhancing Strategies Among Young Spanish Employees
Authors: Agut Sonia , Peiró José M. , Grau Rosa
Published: January 2009

The increase of education in younger people and the relative scarcity of qualified jobs available for them make the overeducation of young workers a social issue. We explored the relationships between overeducation and extra-role behaviors (job content innovation and career-enhancing strategies) as well as the direct and moderating role of personal initiative and intrinsic work values in these relationships. We collected data from a sample of 638 young Spanish employees. As expected, there were negative relationships between overeducation and content innovation and career-enhancing strategies. Personal initiative and intrinsic work values related positively to extra-role behaviors. Moreover, high levels of intrinsic work values and personal initiative emerged as moderating factors that buffered the negative effect of overeducation on extra-role behaviors.
Individual Task Choice and the Division of Challenging Tasks Between Men and Women
Authors: De Pater Irene E. , Van Vianen Annelies E. M. , Humphrey Ronald H. , Sleeth Randall G. , Hartman Nathan S. , Fischer Agneta H.
Published: January 2009

Challenging experiences are considered important for career development, and previous studies have suggested that women have fewer o f those experiences in their jobs than men have. However, the nature and possible determinants of this gender gap in job challenge have hardly been empirically studied. In the present study, the authors examine (a) gender differences in individuals’ choice to perform challenging tasks and (b) gender differences in the allocation of challenging tasks in opposite-sex dyads. Results show that the men and women in the sample did not differ in their individual choice to perform challenging tasks, but after task allocation in opposite-sex dyads men ended up with more of the challenging tasks, whereas women ended up with more of the nonchallenging tasks. The authors discuss the possible consequences of these results for women’s career development.
Ethnic Identity and Career Development Among First-Year College Students
Authors: Duffy Ryan D. , Klingaman Elizabeth A.
Published: January 2009

The current study explored the relation of ethnic identity achievement and career development progress among a sample of 2,432 first-year college students who completed the Career Decision Profile and Phinney's Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure. Among students of color, correlational analyses revealed a series of statistically significant, but small positive correlations between higher levels of ethnic identity achievement and career decidedness, choice comfort, indecisiveness, and choice importance. Additionally, racial group was found to moderate the relation between ethnic identity achievement and career decidedness. For Black and Asian American students, those with higher levels of ethnic identity achievement were found to have significantly higher levels of career decidedness, whereas ethnic identity achievement had no significant relation with the decidedness of White and Latina/o students. It is suggested that for first-year students of color, ethnic identity achievement may play a meaningful, but limited role in being decided in one's career decisions. Research and practice implications are discussed.
Would physician-assisted suicide jeopardize trust in the medical services? An empirical study of attitudes among the general public in Sweden
Authors: Lindblad Anna , Löfmark Rurik , Lynöe Niels
Published: January 2009

Aim: To investigate the attitudes among the Swedish population towards physician-assisted suicide, with special regard to the possible effects on trust in the medical services of physician-assisted suicide being allowed. Design: A postal questionnaire about physician-assisted suicide under certain conditions and its possible influence on trust in the medical services was distributed to 1206 randomly selected individuals living in the county of Stockholm. Two reminders were distributed, followed by a short version of the questionnaire containing only the question about the attitude towards physician-assisted suicide. Results: The total response rate was 51%, a short-version reminder adding another 7%. Of all participants, 73% were in favour of physician-assisted suicide, 12% were against, and 15% were undecided. They believed that their trust in the medical services would increase (38%) or not be influenced at all (45%) if physician-assisted suicide were to be allowed. However, 75% of those who were against physician-assisted suicide believed that their trust would decrease. As compared to those reporting high trust in medical services (n = 492), those with low trust (n = 97) stated that their trust would increase, 36% (confidence interval (CI) = 35—37%) vs. 49% (95% CI = 39—59%). Thirty-three per cent (95% CI = 28—38%) of the younger respondents (<50 years), and 43% (95% CI = 37—49%) of the older respondents believed that their trust would increase. Conclusions: We found no evidence for the assumption that trust in the medical services would be unambiguously jeopardized if physician-assisted suicide were to be legalized. Only among the minority who opposed physician-assisted suicide did a majority of respondents report that their trust would decrease.
Risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in disability pensioners aged 40—42 years: A cross-sectional study in Norway
Authors: Hewitt Stephen , Graff-Iversen Sidsel
Published: January 2009

Aims: Few disability pensions at the age of 40 in Norway are granted due to cardiovascular diseases (CVD) or diabetes, but disability pensioners have an excess mortality of these diseases. In this study, we aim to present risk factors for CVD and diabetes in young disability pensioners, compared with persons able to work. Methods: A population-based survey of Norwegian men and women aged 40—42 years was conducted in 1997—1999, with 62,778 participants. Disability pensioners (n= 2636) and other non-working persons (n = 5105) were compared with persons able to work. Risk factors were compared in persons without CVD and diabetes. Results: Prevalence of self-reported CVD and diabetes was markedly higher in disability pensioners than in persons able to work. In persons without these diseases, we found elevations of all measured risk factors were more prevalent in disabled men and women. Myocardial infarction risk was about 50% higher in disability pensioners. Disability pensioners were more physically inactive and obese; they smoked more and had lipid disorders with elevated total cholesterol, low high-density lipoprotein (hdl)-cholesterol and elevated triglycerides. Other non-working persons had less pronounced elevations of most of the risk factors. Conclusions: A high proportion of disability pensioners and others not working at the age of 40 had an elevated risk for CVD and diabetes.
A randomized lifestyle intervention with 5-year follow-up in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance: Pronounced short-term impact but long-term adherence problems
Authors: Lindahl Bernt , Nilssön Torbjörn K. , Borch-Johnsen Knut , Røder Michael E. , Söderberg Stefan , Widman Lars , Johnson Owe , Hallmans Göran , Jansson Jan-Håkan
Published: January 2009

Aims: To compare data on cardiovascular risk factor changes in lipids, insulin, proinsulin, fibrinolysis, leptin and C-reactive protein, and on diabetes incidence, in relation to changes in lifestyle. Methods: The study was a randomized lifestyle intervention trial conducted in northern Sweden between 1995 and 2000, in 168 individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and body mass index above 27 at start. The intensive intervention group (n = 83) was subjected to a 1-month residential lifestyle programme. The usual care group (n = 85) participated in a health examination ending with a single counselling session. Follow-up was conducted at 1, 3 and 5 years. Results: At 1-year follow-up, an extensive cardio-metabolic risk factor reduction was demonstrated in the intensive intervention group, along with a 70% decrease of progress to type 2 diabetes. At 5-year follow-up, most of these beneficial effects had disappeared. Reported physical activity and fibre intake as well as high-density lipoprotein cholesterol were still increased, and fasting insulin and proinsulin were lower. Conclusions: The intervention affected several important cardio-metabolic risk variables beneficially, and reduced the risk for type 2 diabetes, but the effects persisted only as long as the new lifestyle was maintained. Increased physical activity seemed to be the behaviour that was most easy to preserve.
Health care of children living with their mother in prison compared with the general population
Authors: Ferrara Pietro , Gatto Antonio , Nicoletti Alessandro , Emmanuele Valentina , Fasano Alfonso , Currò Vincenzo
Published: January 2009

Background: Italian law allows female prisoners in specific "nest areas" to keep their babies with them until the child reaches the age of 3 years. We describe health care of children living in the nest areas and we compare this condition with the general population. Methods: Our study was conducted in the female detention centre of Rome Rebibbia, Italy. Clinical diaries of all babies have been screened. The pediatrics ambulatory of A. Gemelli Hospital of Rome provided all data for comparison. Results: We describe 391 children (150 in the prison group, G1; 150 children with Italian parents, G2, and 91 children with foreign parents, G3) with similar characteristics. There were statistical differences between-groups in respect of the auxological data, gestational age (lower in G1 vs G2, p < 0.0004, and lower in G1 vs G3, p < 0.03), time of weaning age earlier in G1 vs G2, (p < 0.035), number of respiratory infective disease (G1>G2, p < 0.0001, and G1>G3, p < 0.003). We also found inadequate immunisation status in children at their admission to prison. According to our observations children received good sanitary assistance inside the prison and the adjustment of their immunisation status when they stayed in prison for a long enough period. Conclusions: The significant information shown by our data suggest that children living in prison with their mothers represent a vulnerable group with particular healthcare needs.
Seroprevalence of HIV/HBV Coinfection in Malian Blood Donors
Authors: Tounkara A. , Sarro Y.S. , Kristensen S. , Dao S. , Diallo H. , Diarra B. , Noumsi T.G. , Guindo O.
Published: January 2009

Objectives. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and their coinfection among blood donors at the National Blood Transfusion Center in Bamako, Mali, from November 2001 to July 2002. Methods. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay techniques with reagents from Bio-Rad (France) were used to test the blood samples. Results. 11 592 blood donors were tested for HIV and HBV surface antigens. The prevalence of HIV was 4.5% and the prevalence of HBV was 14.9%. The HIV/HBV coinfection rate was only 1.13% in this population. Conclusion. The coinfection rate was unexpectedly low in this blood donor population where monoinfection with HIV or HBV prevalence was high.
Gas tungsten arc welding of α + β titanium alloys: A review
Authors: Short A. B.
Published: January 2009

Titanium alloys used in aerospace structures require joints of high integrity to meet the design requirements. Gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW), laser beam welding (LBW) and electron beam welding (EBW) are all processes capable of creating fusion welded joints. Gas tungsten arc welding offers the potential to achieve welds of equal quality to EBW or LBW at much lower capital costs; however, the application of GTAW involves gaining an understanding of the complex process characteristics. This paper reviews the process characteristics for GTAW titanium alloys and compares these characteristics with EBW and LBW titanium alloys. The characteristics of active flux tungsten inert gas welding and keyhole mode GTAW, two recent developments to GTAW, are considered, as is keyhole mode plasma arc welding. These variants are capable of greater penetration and, in some cases, faster processing speeds than conventional GTAW. Finally, the current knowledge of weld microstructural development in cast and wrought α + β titanium alloys and the mechanical performance of such welded joints are examined. Notably, conduction mode GTAWs are shown to have comparable mechanical properties with EBWs in relation to both cast and wrought base metals.
Functional involvement of RINF, retinoid-inducible nuclear factor (CXXC5), in normal and tumoral human myelopoiesis
Authors: Pendino Frédéric , Nguyen Eric , Jonassen Inge , Dysvik Bjarte , Azouz Abdulkader , Lanotte Michel , Ségal-Bendirdjian Evelyne , Lillehaug Johan R.
Published: January 2009

Retinoids triggers differentiation of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) blasts by transcriptional regulation of myeloid regulatory genes. Using a microarray approach, we have identified a novel retinoid-responsive gene (CXXC5) encoding a nuclear factor, retinoid-inducible nuclear factor (RINF), that contains a CXXC-type zinc-finger motif. RINF expression correlates with retinoid-induced differentiation of leukemic cells and with cytokine-induced myelopoiesis of normal CD34+ progenitors. Furthermore, short hairpin RNA (shRNA) interference suggests for this gene a regulatory function in both normal and tumoral myelopoiesis. Interestingly, RINF localizes to 5q31.3, a small region often deleted in myeloid leukemia (acute myeloid leukemia [AML]/myelodysplasia [MDS]) and suspected to harbor one or several tumor suppressor gene.
Enolase-1 promotes plasminogen-mediated recruitment of monocytes to the acutely inflamed lung
Authors: Wygrecka Malgorzata , Marsh Leigh M. , Morty Rory E. , Henneke Ingrid , Guenther Andreas , Lohmeyer Juergen , Markart Philipp , Preissner Klaus T.
Published: January 2009

Cell surface–associated proteolysis plays a crucial role in the migration of mononuclear phagocytes to sites of inflammation. The glycolytic enzyme enolase-1 (ENO-1) binds plasminogen at the cell surface, enhancing local plasmin production. This study addressed the role played by ENO-1 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)–driven chemokine-directed monocyte migration and matrix invasion in vitro, as well as recruitment of monocytes to the alveolar compartment in vivo. LPS rapidly up-regulated ENO-1 cell-surface expression on human blood monocytes and U937 cells due to protein translocation from cytosolic pools, which increased plasmin generation, enhanced monocyte migration through epithelial monolayers, and promoted matrix degradation. These effects were abrogated by antibodies directed against the plasminogen binding site of ENO-1. Overexpression of ENO-1 in U937 cells increased their migratory and matrix-penetrating capacity, which was suppressed by overexpression of a truncated ENO-1 variant lacking the plasminogen binding site (ENO-1ΔPLG). In vivo, intratracheal LPS application in mice promoted alveolar recruitment of monocytic cells that overexpressed ENO-1, but not of cells overexpressing ENO-1ΔPLG. Consistent with these data, pneumonia-patients exhibited increased ENO-1 cell-surface expression on blood monocytes and intense ENO-1 staining of mononuclear cells in the alveolar space. These data suggest an important mechanism of inflammatory cell invasion mediated by increased cell-surface expression of ENO-1.
Lenalidomide, adriamycin, and dexamethasone (RAD) in patients with relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma: a report from the German Myeloma Study Group DSMM (Deutsche Studiengruppe Multiples Myelom)
Authors: Knop Stefan , Gerecke Christian , Liebisch Peter , Topp Max S. , Platzbecker Uwe , Sezer Orhan , Vollmuth Christina , Falk Karina , Glasmacher Axel , Maeder Uwe , Einsele Hermann , Bargou Ralf C.
Published: January 2009

We conducted a phase 1/2 trial combining lenalidomide (R) with adriamycin (A) and dexamethasone (D) for relapsed and relapsed-refractory myeloma to determine tolerability and efficacy of this novel regimen, RAD, delivered for six 28-day cycles. A total of 69 intensively pretreated patients with a median age of 65 years (range, 46-77 years) were enrolled. Using pegfilgrastim (G), the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) was formally not reached at the highest dose level (R, 25 mg on days 1-21; A, 9 mg/m2 intravenously on days 1-4; and D, 40 mg on days 1-4 and 17-20; dose level 5+G), which was then used to determine efficacy. Grades 3/4 neutropenia and thrombocytopenia were seen in 48% and 38% of patients, respectively. Thromboembolic events occurred in 4.5% and severe infections in 10.5% of patients. On an intent-to treat analysis, overall response rate (ORR) was 73% for the whole study and 77% including 74% complete response (CR) plus very good partial response (VGPR) for dose level 5+G. Response rates and progression-free survival did not differ between relapsed and relapsed-refractory patients. Deletion of chromosome 17p and elevated β2-microglobulin were associated with significantly inferior response and shortened time to progression. In conclusion, RAD induces substantial and durable remission with an acceptable toxicity profile in patients with relapsed and relapsed-refractory myeloma. This trial was registered at www.ClinicalTrials.gov as no. NCT00306813.
Depletion of CD4 T cells enhances immunotherapy for neuroblastoma after syngeneic HSCT but compromises development of antitumor immune memory
Authors: Jing Weiqing , Gershan Jill A. , Johnson Bryon D.
Published: January 2009

High-risk neuroblastoma remains a clinically challenging disease. Here, we report that a multifaceted immunotherapeutic approach including syngeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), adoptive transfer of sensitized T cells (from syngeneic donors vaccinated to tumor antigens), and early posttransplantation tumor vaccination can effectively treat mice with established neuroblastoma. Vaccination was an important component of this immunotherapy, as it resulted in enhanced and prolonged tumor-specific CD8 T-cell activity and improved antitumor efficacy. Surprisingly, CD4 cell depletion of mice given sensitized T cells resulted in better tumor-free survival, which was associated with an early increased expansion of CD8 T cells with an effector phenotype, increased numbers of tumor-reactive CD8 T cells, and increased tumor infiltration by CD8 T cells. However, in the absence of CD4 T cells, development of long-term tumor immunity (memory) was severely compromised as reflected by diminished CD8 T-cell recall responses and an inability to resist tumor rechallenge in vivo. Based on these results, a major challenge with this immunotherapeutic approach is how to obtain the ideal initial antitumor response but still preserve antitumor immune memory. These data suggest that identification and selective depletion of immune inhibitory CD4 T cells may be a strategy to enhance early antitumor immunity and induce a long-lasting tumor response after HSCT.
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) consistently precedes multiple myeloma: a prospective study
Authors: Landgren Ola , Kyle Robert A. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Katzmann Jerry A. , Caporaso Neil E. , Hayes Richard B. , Dispenzieri Angela , Kumar Shaji , Clark Raynell J. , Baris Dalsu , Hoover Robert , Rajkumar S. Vincent
Published: January 2009

Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) is a premalignant plasma-cell proliferative disorder associated with a life-long risk of progression to multiple myeloma (MM). It is not known whether MM is always preceded by a premalignant asymptomatic MGUS stage. Among 77 469 healthy adults enrolled in the nationwide population-based prospective Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial, we identified 71 subjects who developed MM during the course of the study in whom serially collected (up to 6) prediagnostic serum samples obtained 2 to 9.8 years prior to MM diagnosis were available. Using assays for monoclonal (M)–proteins (electrophoresis/immunofixation) and kappa-lambda free light chains (FLCs), we determined longitudinally the prevalence of MGUS and characterized patterns of monoclonal immunoglobulin abnormalities prior to MM diagnosis. MGUS was present in 100.0% (87.2%-100.0%), 98.3% (90.8%-100.0%), 97.9% (88.9%-100.0%), 94.6% (81.8%-99.3%), 100.0% (86.3%-100.0%), 93.3% (68.1%-99.8%), and 82.4% (56.6%-96.2%) at 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8+ years prior to MM diagnosis, respectively. In approximately half the study population, the M-protein concentration and involved FLC-ratio levels showed a yearly increase prior to MM diagnosis. In the present study, an asymptomatic MGUS stage consistently preceded MM. Novel molecular markers are needed to better predict progression to MM in patients with MGUS.
Finding optimal threshold for correction error reads in DNA assembling
Authors: Chin Francis YL , Leung Henry CM , Li Wei-Lin , Yiu Siu-Ming
Published: January 2009

Background

DNA assembling is the problem of determining the nucleotide sequence of a genome from its substrings, called reads. In the experiments, there may be some errors on the reads which affect the performance of the DNA assembly algorithms. Existing algorithms, e.g. ECINDEL and SRCorr, correct the error reads by considering the number of times each length-k substring of the reads appear in the input. They treat those length-k substrings appear at least M times as correct substring and correct the error reads based on these substrings. However, since the threshold M is chosen without any solid theoretical analysis, these algorithms cannot guarantee their performances on error correction.

Results

In this paper, we propose a method to calculate the probabilities of false positive and false negative when determining whether a length-k substring is correct using threshold M. Based on this optimal threshold M that minimizes the total errors (false positives and false negatives). Experimental results on both real data and simulated data showed that our calculation is correct and we can reduce the total error substrings by 77.6% and 65.1% when compared to ECINDEL and SRCorr respectively.

Conclusion

We introduced a method to calculate the probability of false positives and false negatives of the length-k substring using different thresholds. Based on this calculation, we found the optimal threshold to minimize the total error of false positive plus false negative.
Using random forest for reliable classification and cost-sensitive learning for medical diagnosis
Authors: Yang Fan , Wang Hua-zhen , Mi Hong , Lin Cheng-de , Cai Wei-wen
Published: January 2009

Background

Most machine-learning classifiers output label predictions for new instances without indicating how reliable the predictions are. The applicability of these classifiers is limited in critical domains where incorrect predictions have serious consequences, like medical diagnosis. Further, the default assumption of equal misclassification costs is most likely violated in medical diagnosis.

Results

In this paper, we present a modified random forest classifier which is incorporated into the conformal predictor scheme. A conformal predictor is a transductive learning scheme, using Kolmogorov complexity to test the randomness of a particular sample with respect to the training sets. Our method show well-calibrated property that the performance can be set prior to classification and the accurate rate is exactly equal to the predefined confidence level. Further, to address the cost sensitive problem, we extend our method to a label-conditional predictor which takes into account different costs for misclassifications in different class and allows different confidence level to be specified for each class. Intensive experiments on benchmark datasets and real world applications show the resultant classifier is well-calibrated and able to control the specific risk of different class.

Conclusion

The method of using RF outlier measure to design a nonconformity measure benefits the resultant predictor. Further, a label-conditional classifier is developed and turn to be an alternative approach to the cost sensitive learning problem that relies on label-wise predefined confidence level. The target of minimizing the risk of misclassification is achieved by specifying the different confidence level for different class.