bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sample pre-treatment determines the clinical usefulness of acid-labile subunit immunoassays in the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency and acromegaly
Authors: Morrison Katherine M , Bidlingmaier Martin , Stadler Simone , Wu Zida , Skriver Lars , Strasburger Christian J
Published: February 2007

Objective: The usefulness of measuring the GH-dependent acid-labile subunit (ALS) in the management of GH deficiency (GHD) and acromegaly remains in question and is investigated in this study, comparing several different immunoassays for ALS.

Method: We compared the diagnostic accuracy of a commercially available polyclonal Ab-based ELISA with SDS pre-treatment (SDS-ELISA) with a monoclonal Ab-based immunofluorometric assay, using two unfolding methods (urea (UREA) and Glycine-HCl (Gly)). The corresponding molecular weight (MW) of ALS and IGFBP-3 immunoreactivity was determined. The clinical usefulness of each assay was examined in adult GH disorders.

Results: ALS was lower in GHD and higher in acromegaly using all assays. In GHD, UREA had higher sensitivity and specificity than SDS-ELISA (59 and 69% versus 41 and 51% respectively). In acromegaly, sensitivity and specificity was 94 and 87% for UREA, 81 and 36% for Gly, and 44 and 44% for SDS-ELISA. After UREA, immunoreactivity for ALS and IGFBP-3 eluted at their predicted free MW using size-exclusion chromatography, whereas ALS immunoreactivity in SDS (300–600 kDa) and Gly (250–500 kDa) was at a high apparent MW consistent with aggregation.

Conclusion: The diagnostic accuracy of ALS varies with assay choice and pre-treatment modality. UREA, which results in migration of ALS at the expected MW on a sizing column, has the highest specificity and sensitivity. Thus, if measured in an assay in which ALS is unfolded without aggregation, ALS is a clinically highly useful parameter for the assessment of GH.
Characterisation of DEHAL1 expression in thyroid pathologies
Authors: Krause Kerstin , Karger Stefan , Gimm Oliver , Sheu Sien-Yi , Dralle Henning , Tannapfel Andrea , Schmid Kurt Werner , Dupuy Corinne , Fuhrer Dagmar
Published: February 2007

Iodotyrosine dehalogenase 1 (DEHAL1) is a transmembrane protein involved in the recycling of iodide in the human thyroid. The aim of the present study was (I) to investigate whether DEHAL1 expression is different in differentially functioning thyroid pathologies and (II) to evaluate DEHAL1 as a possible marker of thyroid cell differentiation.

Design and methods: Real-time PCR for DEHAL1 and its isoform DEHAL1B was performed in a series of 105 thyroid specimens, including toxic thyroid nodules (TTN), Graves’ disease (GD) thyroids, benign cold thyroid nodules (CTN), normal thyroid tissues and thyroid cancers (follicular thyroid carcinomas (FTC), papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC), partially differentiated thyroid cancers (PDTC) and anaplastic thyroid carcinomas (ATC)). In addition, DEHAL1 protein expression was studied by immunohistochemistry in 163 benign and malignant thyroid pathologies and normal thyroids.

Results: (I) The highest DEHAL1 mRNA levels were found in GD thyroids, while downregulation of DEHAL1 and DEHAL1B mRNA occurred in PTC and ATC (P<0.001 and <0.05 respectively); (II) DEHAL1 protein was overexpressed in TTNs and GD thyroids with predominant apical staining in all samples; (III) a weaker and patchy staining pattern was found in CTNs and normal thyroids; (IV) in differentiated thyroid cancers (FTC and PTC), a diffuse cytoplasmic DEHAL1 expression was found; and (V) in PDTC and ATC, DEHAL1 expression was faint or absent.

Conclusion: Upregulation of DEHAL1 protein expression and sublocalisation of DEHAL1 at the apical cell pole in TTNs and GD thyroids is consistent with increased thyroid hormone turnover during thyrotoxicosis. Diffuse cytoplasmatic localisation or downregulation of DEHAL1 expression in thyroid cancers suggests alteration or loss of DEHAL1 function during thyroid cell dedifferentiation.
Effects of growth hormone in patients with tibial fracture: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Raschke Michael , Rasmussen Michael Højby , Govender Shunmugam , Segal David , Suntum Mette , Christiansen Jens Sandahl
Published: February 2007

Objective: Investigate whether intervention with GH after tibial fracture enhances fracture healing.

Design: Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 406 patients (93 women, 313 men, age: 18–64 years) with tibial fracture.

Methods: Patients were stratified by tibial fracture (open or closed) and allocated to placebo or GH treatment (15, 30 or 60 μg/kg daily, until clinically assessed healing or until 16 weeks post-surgery). Primary outcome was time from surgery until fracture healing and assessment of healing was done centrally and observer blinded. Patients reported for evaluation every 4 weeks until 24 weeks, and at 9 and 12 months.

Results: GH did not accelerate time to healing in the combined group of open and closed fractures. When separately analysing the closed and open fractures, a significant difference in time to healing was observed between treatment groups, exclusively in the closed fractures (P<0.05; subgroup analysis revealed that the 60 μg/kg group was significantly different from placebo). The relative risk of fracture healing for 60 μg/kg versus placebo during the 12 month was: all fractures, 1.16; 95% CI: (0.86; 1.57) (ns); closed fractures, 1.44; 95% CI: (1.01; 2.05; P<0.05); open fractures, 0.75; 95% CI: (0.42; 1.31) (ns). The estimated median number of days before fracture healing in closed fractures was 95 with 60 μg/kg versus 129 with placebo (95% CI: (94; 129) and (94; 249)) corresponding to approximately 26% decrease in healing time.

Conclusions: In the overall group of open and closed tibial fractures, no significant enhancement of fracture healing was observed with GH, whereas in closed tibial fractures, GH accelerated healing significantly.
Is the effect of testosterone on body composition modulated by the androgen receptor gene CAG repeat polymorphism in elderly men?
Authors: Lapauw B , Goemaere S , Crabbe P , Kaufman J M , Ruige J B
Published: February 2007

Objective: The androgen receptor (AR) gene contains a CAG repeat polymorphism coding for a polyglutamine chain, the length of which is inversely correlated with AR transcriptional activity. We explored whether this polymorphism modulates the activities of testosterone (T) related to body composition in elderly men.

Design: We performed cross-sectional analyses using data from a 4-year follow-up study in community-dwelling men aged 75–89 years (n=159).

Methods: Body composition was assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and its relation with T and the AR gene CAG repeat length was assessed by multiple linear regression analyses, adjusting for confounding and exploring effect modification.

Results: AR gene CAG repeat length was not directly related to body composition, either with or without adjustment for confounding variables like age, weight, total T or sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels. However, exploration of effect modification showed that CAG repeat length modulated the relation between T and body composition (standardized regression coefficients of interaction term: β=0.12, P<0.01 and β=−0.09, P<0.05 for fat-free mass and fat mass respectively). These results were confirmed using similar models and data of mean T, SHBG and weight of the 2 years’ preceding body composition assessment instead of data of the same year (β=0.09, P<0.05 and β=−0.09, P<0.05 respectively).

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the AR gene CAG polymorphism contributes, albeit modestly, to the between-subject variation of T action on body composition in community-dwelling elderly men.
Effects of calcium supplementation on bone loss and fractures in congestive heart failure
Authors: Frost Robert J A , Sonne Carolin , Wehr Uli , Stempfle Hans-Ulrich
Published: February 2007

Background: Cross-sectional studies have shown that more than 50% of patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) have decreased bone mineral density (BMD). There is limited knowledge about the longitudinal changes of BMD and how to treat bone loss in patients with CHF.

Methods: The present study was a prospective, longitudinal trial in which 33 male patients with CHF (ejection fraction (EF): 30±11%) were assigned to 1000 mg calcium supplementation or no supplementation. BMD was measured at the lumbar spine (LS) and the femoral neck (FN) by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry at baseline and after 12 months.

Results: Osteopenia (LS 33% and FN 36%) and osteoporosis (LS 15% and FN 6%) were frequently seen in these patients; 70% showed impaired renal function, 42% secondary hyperparathyroidism, and 33% hypogonadism. Bone resorption markers were strongly elevated and correlated negatively with the EF. Patients without calcium supplementation revealed a reduction of BMD (LS 1.7% and FN 1.9%) within 12 months. The fracture incidence was 6%. Patients with calcium supplementation also demonstrated a 6% fracture incidence and a decrease in BMD (LS 1.2% and FN 1.6%), which was not significantly different from the untreated group. Loss of BMD at FN was only seen in patients with impaired renal function.

Conclusions: Patients with CHF demonstrate a progressive decrease in BMD when compared with age-matched healthy individuals. Increased bone resorption due to renal insufficiency with consecutive secondary hyperparathyroidism is a main reason for BMD loss in CHF. Calcium supplementation alone cannot sufficiently prevent the decrease in BMD.
Usefulness of repeated fine-needle cytology in the follow-up of non-operated thyroid nodules
Authors: Illouz Frédéric , Rodien Patrice , Saint-André Jean Paul , Triau Stéphane , Laboureau-Soares Sandrine , Dubois Séverine , Vielle Bruno , Antoine Hamy , Rohmer Vincent
Published: February 2007

Objective: The usefulness of repeated fine-needle cytology (FNC) in thyroid nodules with benign cytology remains unknown. We analyzed the relevance of repeated FNC to detect suspicious or malignant (S/M) cytologies and carcinomas.

Design: A retrospective study (1983–2004) was conducted in our endocrinology department.

Methods: We reviewed the reports of 895 adequate FNC performed in 298 patients (298 nodules) during a mean follow-up of 5 years. We compared the nodules with at least one suspicious or malignant FNC (S/M nodules) with nodules with repeatedly benign (RB) FNC (RB nodules).

Results: Among the nodules with initial benign cytology, we found 35 nodules with one or more later suspicious or malignant results. The interval between the first FNC and the first S/M FNC was 2.9 years. The probability for a nodule to have a repeated benign FNC decreases with time and with the number of FNC. We did not find any clinical or ultrasonographic characteristics related to an S/M cytology. Seven cancers were detected by the second or the third FNC with S/M results. The proportion of cancers among S/M nodules was similar when S/M cytology appears during the first, the second, or the third FNC.

Conclusions: We suggest to repeat FNC up to three adequate samples in the follow-up of thyroid nodules so as not to miss the presence of malignant neoplasm.
Atherogenic lipoprotein phenotype and low-density lipoprotein size and subclasses in patients with growth hormone deficiency before and after short-term replacement therapy
Authors: Rizzo Manfredi , Trepp Roman , Berneis Kaspar , Christ Emanuel R
Published: February 2007

Objective: Patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) have increased cardiovascular risk and may show elevated triglyceride and reduced high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentrations, two lipid abnormalities usually accompanied by increased small dense LDL in the ‘atherogenic lipoprotein phenotype’ (ALP). In the present study, we directly investigated (1) whether hypopituitary patients with GHD have increased small dense LDL; (2) whether growth hormone replacement therapy (GHRT) beneficially impact on such particles; (3) the prevalence of ALP in GHD and GHRT patients.

Design and methods: In 14 hypopituitary patients with GHD (44 ± 13 years, body mass index (BMI) 27 ± 3) before and after 4 months of GHRT, and in 11 healthy age- and BMI-matched controls we measured plasma lipids and LDL size and subclasses by gradient gel electrophoresis.

Results: Compared with controls, GHD showed increased triglycerides (P = 0.0024), similar total and LDL cholesterol levels and a tendency towards reduced HDL cholesterol concentrations (P = 0.0894). GHRT reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels (P = 0.0303 and 0.0120 respectively), but no effect was found on triglycerides and HDL cholesterol levels. LDL size was unchanged in GHD versus controls (269 ± 9 vs 274 ± 6 Å, P = ns), but LDL subclass analysis revealed a shift towards more dense particles (P = 0.0046). GHRT had no significant impact on LDL size and subclasses. The prevalence of ALP was 14% in GHD and 7% in GHRT.

Conclusions: In GHD patients, individual features of ALP (including increased small dense LDL) may be common, but complete ALP is relatively uncommon. Short-term replacement therapy seems to be ineffective on such lipid alterations, but the effect of a longer GHRT remains to be assessed.
Lower plasma adiponectin is a marker of increased intima-media thickness associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus and with male gender
Authors: Dullaart Robin P F , de Vries Rindert , van Tol Arie , Sluiter Wim J
Published: February 2007

Objective: We tested the extent to which altered plasma adipokine levels may contribute to the increased carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus and with male gender, independently of conventional cardiovascular risk factors, insulin resistance, and plasma C-reactive protein (CRP).

Design: IMT (mean of three segments of both carotid arteries by ultrasonography), insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment; HOMAir), plasma CRP, lipids, adiponectin, leptin, resistin, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured in 84 type 2 diabetic patients and 85 control subjects.

Results: In diabetic patients, IMT (P<0.001), mean arterial pressure (P<0.001), HOMAir (P<0.001), plasma CRP (P=0.003), triglycerides (P=0.037), leptin (P=0.023), resistin (P=0.003), and TNF-α (P=0.003) levels were higher, whereas high-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol (P<0.001) and adiponectin (P<0.001) levels were lower compared with control subjects. Plasma adiponectin (P<0.001) and leptin (P<0.001) were substantially lower in men than in women. IMT was positively and independently associated with age (P<0.001), diabetes (P=0.049), and male gender (P=0.002) in a multivariate regression model, not including other variables. Further analyses showed that IMT was positively related to age (P<0.001) and plasma triglycerides (P=0.038) and negatively to adiponectin (P<0.001), without independent effects of diabetes, gender, and HOMAir.

Conclusions: Increased IMT in type 2 diabetes may in part be explained by lower plasma adiponectin and higher triglycerides, but not by leptin, resistin, and TNF-α. The gender effect on IMT is related to lower plasma adiponectin.
Decrease of fructosamine levels during treatment with adalimumab in patients with both diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: van Eijk I C , Peters M J L , Nurmohamed M T , van Deutekom A W , Dijkmans B A C , Simsek S
Published: February 2007

Tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine which has been closely linked to obesity and insulin resistance. We present two cases of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and concomitant diabetes mellitus, who showed a marked decrease of fructosamine levels after initiating therapy with adalimumab, a TNFα-blocking agent, for active RA. This finding may implicate that TNFα blockade causes better glycaemic control in RA patients with concomitant diabetes, possibly by improving insulin resistance.
Effect of transsphenoidal surgery on sleep apnoea in acromegaly
Authors: Sze Lisa , Schmid Christoph , Bloch Konrad E , Bernays René , Brändle Michael
Published: February 2007

Objective: Sleep apnoea syndrome (SAS) is common in acromegaly and both diseases are independently associated with hypertension and insulin resistance contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. Pituitary surgery remains the principal treatment modality in acromegaly. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence and risk factors of SAS in acromegaly and to analyze the effect of transsphenoidal adenomectomy on SAS and cardiovascular risk factors.

Subjects and methods: Thirteen consecutive patients (seven women and six men, aged 25–77 years) with newly diagnosed acromegaly were prospectively studied. Biochemical assessment (IGF-I, GH, acid labile subunit, fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin), overnight respiratory polygraphy, and an Epworth Sleepiness scale score (ESS) were obtained before and 12 weeks after surgery. SAS was defined by an ESS ≥ 10 and ≥ 5 apnoeas/hypopnoeas (central or obstructive) per hour.

Results: Six of the thirteen (46%) patients had SAS. Risk factors were male gender (83.3 vs 14.3% without SAS) and long disease duration until diagnosis of acromegaly (10.2 ± 3.2 vs 4.6 ± 3.6 years, mean ± s.d.). Ten patients had a homeostasis assessment model score ≥ 4 indicating insulin resistance and one had diabetes mellitus requiring insulin. Seven patients had hypertension (≥ 140/90 mmHg). Postoperatively, GH and IGF-I levels decreased, but only five patients were cured. However, SAS resolved in all patients irrespective of whether acromegaly was cured or not. FBG (5.5 ± 1.2 vs 4.8 ± 0.4 mmol/l) and systolic blood pressure (150.8 ± 18.5 vs 130.8 ± 17.5 mmHg) decreased in all SAS patients.

Conclusion: We found a high prevalence of SAS in acromegaly patients, in particular, in men and those with long duration of disease. Importantly, a marked reduction of GH excess by transsphenoidal adenomectomy may cure SAS and improve insulin resistance and hypertension.
Pegvisomant interference in GH assays results in underestimation of GH levels
Authors: Paisley A N , Hayden K , Ellis A , Anderson J , Wieringa G , Trainer P J
Published: February 2007

Introduction: Pegvisomant use in acromegaly negates the use of GH levels to monitor disease activity. To achieve antagonism, plasma concentrations must be ~1000-fold greater than GH which with the high homology between the peptides makes GH measurement a challenge when pegvisomant is present.

Objective: We investigated the effect of pegvisomant on GH measured using commercially available assays.

Methods: Pooled serum samples with GH concentrations <0.38, 3.85 and 7.69 μg/l were spiked with increasing pegvisomant concentrations (9000–494 000μg/l). Samples were analysed by the Nichols Advantage, DPC Immulite 2000, Diasorin IRMA, Beckman Access Dxl, Tosoh AIA and Wallac Delfia assays.

Results: With baseline GH <0.38 μg/l measured levels were <0.38 in all assays except Nichols, Diasorin and Beckman where GH peaked at 1.5, 9.6 and 17.7 μg/l respectively at low pegvisomant concentrations, falling thereafter. With the other two samples, measured GH levels progressively fell with increasing pegvisomant concentrations, except the Beckman assay where an increase (30.8 μg/l) was seen at a pegvisomant concentration of 9000 μg/l; and Diasorin and Tosoh where smaller increases were seen at lower pegvisomant concentrations, levels gradually falling thereafter.

Conclusion: The presence of pegvisomant resulted in artefactually low measured GH in most assays. We speculate this fall is due to assay antibody-binding pegvisomant, reducing the amount of available antibody to bind actual GH thereby producing less sandwich formation: the ‘high-dose hook’ effect. In most assays, this effect is modest and results in lower GH, but the level of interference makes them unsuitable for studies on the influence of pegvisomant on GH neuroregulation.
Reversible Kallmann syndrome: report of the first case with a KAL1 mutation and literature review
Authors: Ribeiro Rogerio Silicani , Vieira Teresa Cristina , Abucham Julio
Published: February 2007

Kallmann syndrome (KS) describes the association of isolated hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with hypo/anosmia. A few KS patients may reverse hypogonadism after testosterone withdrawal, a variant known as reversible KS. Herein, we describe the first mutation in KAL1 in a patient with reversible KS and review the literature. The proband was first seen at 22 years complaining of anosmia and lack of puberty. His brother had puberty at 30 years and a maternal granduncle had anosmia and delayed puberty. On physical examination, he was P2G1, testes were 3 ml and bone age was 14 years. During 20 years of irregular testosterone replacement, he developed secondary sexual characteristics and testicular enlargement. At the age of 41 years, after stopping testosterone replacement for 5 months, his testes were 15 ml, serum testosterone, LH, and FSH responses to GnRH were normal, and his wife was pregnant. The molecular study revealed a cytosine insertion in exon 2 of KAL1, generating a frameshift at codon 75 and a premature stop at codon 85. The expected gene product is a truncated peptide with 85 of the 610 amino acids present in the wild-type protein. Fourteen cases of reversible KS have been described but the genotype was only studied in a single case showing a heterozygous fibroblast growth factor receptor type 1 (FGFR1) mutation. Considering the low prevalence of mutations in KAL1 or FGFR1 in KS, it is possible that these genotypes are more prevalent in reversible KS than in other KS patients, but additional studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis.
Metabolic parameters and adipokine profile during GH replacement therapy in children with GH deficiency
Authors: Ciresi A , Amato M C , Criscimanna A , Mattina A , Vetro C , Galluzzo A , D’Acquisto G , Giordano C
Published: February 2007

Objective: GH replacement therapy in children with GH deficiency (GHD) mainly promotes linear growth. Not only have very few studies fully analyzed the metabolic consequences of GH therapy, but also the question as to whether GH may affect adipokine secretion has been insufficiently investigated. Our aim was to study the effects of GH replacement therapy on auxological data, lipid and glycemic profiles, insulin homeostasis (HOMA-IR) and serum adipokines in children.

Methods: This was a 1-year prospective study. Thirty-four GHD children (11.6 ± 2.6 years) and thirty healthy matched controls were enrolled. Children affected by GHD were studied both before beginning continuous GH replacement therapy and again at 12 months.

Results: At the beginning of the study, total and LDL cholesterol were higher in GHD children than in controls (P<0.001), whereas HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin, HOMA-IR, leptin, and adiponectin were similar. At 12 months of continuous GH replacement therapy in the GHD group, there was a significant increase in both auxological data and IGF-I (P<0.001); total cholesterol (P<0.001), LDL (P<0.001), triglycerides (P<0.005), and leptin (P<0.001) decreased significantly; HDL (P<0.003), insulin (P<0.001), HOMA-IR (P<0.001) increased while adiponectin was unmodified. Furthermore, IGF-IΔ showed an inverse correlation with leptin Δ (ρ = −0.398, P = 0.02).

Conclusions: In GHD children, the evaluation of metabolic parameters proves to be a useful tool for the evaluation of auxological parameters during GH replacement therapy. In our study, GH replacement therapy in GHD children improved final height, restored IGF-I levels, reduced leptin levels, and improved the lipid profile, without producing any unfavorable effects on glucose metabolism.
Spontaneous hypoglycemia in patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Battezzati A , Battezzati P M , Costantini D , Seia M , Zazzeron L , Russo M C , Daccò V , Bertoli S , Crosignani A , Colombo C
Published: February 2007

Objective: Diabetes frequently complicates cystic fibrosis (CF) without fasting hyperglycemia or despite spontaneous hypoglycemia (anecdotally ascribed to malnutrition), whose prevalence, clinical meaning, and relationship with glucose tolerance and clinical/nutritional status were not previously investigated. The relationship of CF genotype with insulin secretion control is also unclear.

Design and methods: A total of 129 CF patients without stable diabetes received 188 oral glucose tolerance tests. Distribution of fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glucose, insulin and C-peptide responses, clinical/nutritional variables, and their relationships were analyzed.

Results: FPG < 60 mg/dl (3.3 mmo/l) was detected in 14% of studies and reactive hypoglycemia (PG < 50 mg/dl (2.8 mmo/l)) in 15%. OGTT-based diabetes frequency was similar in the lowest quartile (Q1) and Q2–3 for FPG (10 and 8%), with higher glucose increment and area under the curve in Q1. Insulin and C-peptide levels were similar among FPG quartiles. Class I cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator mutation carriers had higher insulin concentrations than class II, especially in Q1 for FPG. Age, sex, nutritional, and anthropometric parameters including fat and lean body mass were unrelated to FPG. Lower FPG was associated with more frequent hospitalization rates (P = 0.002) and lower Shwachman scores (P = 0.041). Steroids weaning was accurately evaluated but then excluded as a possible cause of hypoglycemia.

Conclusions/interpretation: Fasting asymptomatic hypoglycemia is frequent and possibly related to inappropriate insulin secretion control in class I mutation carriers. Low FPG does not exclude impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and diabetes in CF and reflects worse clinical status.
Gene variants of monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 and components of metabolic syndrome in KORA S4, Augsburg
Authors: Sedlmeier Eva-Maria , Grallert Harald , Huth Cornelia , Löwel Hannelore , Herder Christian , Strassburger Klaus , Giani Guido , Wichmann H-Erich , Hauner Hans , Illig Thomas , Rathmann Wolfgang
Published: February 2007

Objective: Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) has been suggested to be involved in the development of several components of metabolic syndrome (MetS). The present study investigated the association of nine MCP-1 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with MetS, type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic risk factors.

Subjects and methods: The population-based study sample comprised 1630 subjects aged 55–74 years from KORA S4 (Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg Survey 4). Genotyping was carried out by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) analysis of allele-dependent primer extension products.

Results: The MCP-1 SNP c.-3813C>T exhibited trends for differences between the genotype groups in triglycerides, 2-h glucose and uric acid (P = 0.0084, 0.014, 0.027). Other trends were observed for c.-928G>C associated with height and fasting glucose (P = 0.0024, 0.033), for c.105T>C with height and leukocytes (P = 0.0095, 0.047), for c.*65C>T and c.*3879C>T with MCP-1 levels (both P = 0.012) and for c.-2138A>T with interleukin-6 levels. After correction for multiple testing, none of the analysed SNPs, except c.-928G>C in men showed a significant association with MetS, T2DM or other analysed parameters. Haplotype MCP-1*1 and c.-928G>C in men (P = 0.0002, 0.0004) were significantly associated with an increase in height.

Conclusions: This is the first study to investigate the associations of MCP-1 SNPs with MetS. We found trends for several components of MetS. These parameters were hyperlipidaemia, fasting and 2-h glucose, and uric acid. A new finding is that MCP-1*1 haplotype is associated with height. Further investigation in larger populations is needed to clarify the involvement of MCP-1 in MetS.
Rethinking the Purposes and Processes for Designing Digital Portfolios
Authors: Hicks Troy , Russo Anne , Autrey Tara , Gardner Rebecca , Kabodian Aram , Edington Cathy
Published: February 2007

As digital portfolios become more prevalent in teacher education, the purposes and processes for creating them have become contested. Originally meant to be critical and reflective spaces for learning about multimedia and conceived as contributing to professional growth, research shows that digital portfolios are now increasingly being used to provide evidence that a set of teacher education standards have been met for a course.

In this article, the authors describe how they designed their digital portfolios as part of an inquiry‐based teacher research project and represented their own work—as well as that of their students—in these online spaces. They discuss a number of personal and professional concerns that they encountered while engaged in this process, from the ethics of editing students' work to the online personas the teachers themselves chose to adopt. Issues of audience, purpose, format, and content are framed in discussions of teacher research and portfolio design. Finally, the authors argue that keeping design‐based decisions about how and why to construct a digital portfolio in teachers' hands can contribute to lasting professional growth and change.
Transformative Learning Through “Teaching With Technology” Electronic Portfolios
Authors: Stansberry Susan L. , Kymes Angel D.
Published: February 2007

Along with discussion of format and design of electronic portfolios, this article addresses the larger question of what happens to teachers when they invest in creating a professional portfolio. Are they able to transform this experience into more authentic assessment with their own students? Beside acquiring proficiency in using portfolio development tools, do teachers find that their core beliefs and philosophies related to these tools been altered?

Seventy‐eight teachers created e‐portfolios during their participation in a graduate‐level education course. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected and are explained in terms of Mezirow's transformational learning theory. While not all of the teachers seemed ready to replicate the process of developing electronic portfolios with their students, it is clear that they were transformed by the process of creating their own. In particular, the content addressed through this particular portfolio and the format of the course (collaboration, critical reflection, supportive discussion, and individual construction of learning experiences) did facilitate transformative learning.
A Vocabulary Flood: Making Words “Sticky” With Computer‐Response Activities
Authors: Labbo Linda D. , Love Mary S. , Ryan Tammy
Published: February 2007

Children's literature is a primary source for introducing young children to new words at home and at school, and children's early vocabulary knowledge is a key component of oral language, which is essential for comprehension. This column is focused on children from low socioeconomic backgrounds who frequently find themselves in a vocabulary crisis. It describes how computer‐related activities may play a role in tackling this problem. Furthermore, this column provides the background, rationale, and steps for using vocabulary flood—a five‐day instructional cycle the authors developed that uses computer technologies and related activities.
“I” Poems: Invitations for Students to Deepen Literary Understanding
Authors: Kucan Linda
Published: February 2007

“I” poems are motivating invitations to write that can engage students in preparing for or responding to reading. In composing “I” poems, students assume the identity and voice of a person, place, or object and write from that perspective. The first‐person narrative point of view is the most important feature of an “I” poem. “I” poems can rhyme, but a rhyme scheme is not a necessary or critical feature.

The article includes models of “I” poems as well as examples written by preservice teachers and fourth‐grade students. Specific suggestions for writing “I” poems before reading and after reading are described.
How Important Is Reading Skill Fluency for Comprehension?
Authors: Walczyk Jeffrey J. , Griffith‐Ross Diana A.
Published: February 2007

Some important approaches to reading instruction and assessment, as well as influential theories of reading, are based on the assumption that reading fluency is necessary for good comprehension. However, this may not always be the case. This article takes another look at the relationship between word reading fluency and comprehension. It also identifies diverse pathways that lower ability readers can take to comprehend well.

Findings on compensatory‐encoding theory are presented. They reveal that struggling readers can overcome weak skills and improve comprehension if they know how to compensate, are motivated to understand, and are unrestricted. However, when such readers must perform under time pressure, must read text at a constant or fast rate, or must read silently, they are less likely to compensate and frequently comprehend less well as a result. At the other extreme of the skill spectrum, the article also discusses older and more fluent readers who often read lackadaisically and thus are not engaged by text. As a consequence, they comprehend below their potential. The article concludes with instructional implications for helping nonfluent readers to compensate freely and for challenging fluent readers to stay focused on a text's meaning.
Amorphous‐silicon thin‐film transistors made at 280°C on clear‐plastic substrates by interfacial stress engineering
Authors: Long Ke , Cheng I‐Chun , Kattamis Alexis , Gleskova Helena , Wagner Sigurd , Sturm James C.
Published: February 2007

Abstract— A process temperature of ∼300°C produces amorphous‐silicon (a‐Si) thin‐film transistors (TFTs) with the best performance and long‐term stability. Clear organic polymers (plastics) are the most versatile substrate materials for flexible displays. However, clear plastics with a glass‐transition temperature (Tg) in excess of 300°C can have coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) much larger than that of the silicon nitride (SiNx) and a‐Si in TFTs deposited by plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). The difference in the CTE that may lead to cracking of the device films can limit the process temperature to well below that of the Tg of the plastic. A model of the mechanical interaction of the TFT stack and the plastic substrate, which provides design guidelines for avoid cracking during TFT fabrication, is presented. The fracture point is determined by a critical interfacial stress. The model was used to successfully fabricate a‐Si TFTs on novel clear‐plastic substrates with a maximum process temperature of up to 280°C. The TFTs made at high temperatures have higher mobility, lower leakage current, and higher stability than TFTs made on conventional low‐Tg clear‐plastic substrates.
Transflective TFT‐LCDs with high optical performance
Authors: Lin Lin , Liang Bau‐Jy , Lin Han‐Chang
Published: February 2007

Abstract— In order to reduce panel cost, reduce power consumption, and minimize thickness, a single panel with dual functions for high‐transmissive main displays and high reflective sub‐displays is becoming the trend. Two novel RGB‐W transflective 1.9‐in. a‐Si TFT LCDs have been developed to meet the requirements. By using the traditional seven‐mask dual‐cell‐gap structure, novel transflective tRGB‐t/rW TFT LCD and tRGB‐rW TFT‐LCD panels were fabricated with high transmittance and high reflectance, respectively. The optical clarity is excellent in both dark and bright conditions. Their superior optical performance is attributed to the high‐efficiency “transflective white” subpixel or “reflective white” subpixel.
A dual‐gap RGBW transflective TFT‐LCD with adjustable color gamut
Authors: Hung Kuo‐Yung , Yang Tun‐Chun , Pei Chih‐Chun , Hu Chih‐Jen , Chang Chih‐Ming
Published: February 2007

Abstract— An adjustable‐color‐gamut dual‐gap RGBW transflective liquid‐crystal display that uses a four‐color manufacturing process and a color‐processing algorithm to achieve the appropriate color performance in both the transmissive and reflective modes is presented. Based on superior‐color‐transformation units, the total brightness and color gamut can be modified under different ambience. The highest NTSC color gamut in the reflective mode (reflectance, 4.4%) that has been fabricated successfully for a RGBW 1.5‐in. dual‐gap panel is 23% with a 7%, 17%, and 40% NTSC color gamut in the transmissive mode by using different algorithms. Compared to a typical RGB panel, it not only provides flexibility for any environment but also satisfies a variety of personal requirements. Based on personal preference, users have more choices to adjust the LCD settings such as color saturation, brightness, etc. The smart RGBW TRLCD will definitely become the developing trend towards sunlight‐readable LCDs in the near future.
Retardation‐controlling color filter with two directly stacked retardation layers
Authors: Ikegami Kanami , Kawashima Tomoya , Hayashi Shinji , Moriya Norihisa
Published: February 2007

Abstract— A polymerizable liquid crystal (PLC), the orientation of which can be frozen, is useful for making retardation layers. In this paper, a new color filter (CF) with retardation‐controlling layers made of PLC is reported. It has a positive A‐plate and a negative C‐plate, both directly stacked on a color‐filter layer. These two retardation layers exhibit good orientation ability, and function well as retarders, even when they are only 1/10 or less as thick as ordinary retardation films. The new CF also has excellent thermal stability. The change in retardation after heat treatment at 200°C for 30 min is around 5%, and there is no observable peeling. A prototype VA‐LCD made with our new CF provides good optical compensation, with the light leakage being extremely low in all azimuthal directions. This technology is very useful for making thin, highly reliable color filters for LCDs, even with other modes.
Pore‐free mold‐pattern‐transfer method for barrier ribs of HD PDPs
Authors: Kim Yoo‐Seong , Kim Woong‐Sik , Choi Hak‐Nyun , Koh Tae‐Geum , Kim Yong‐Seog
Published: February 2007

Abstract— Among various barrier‐rib manufacturing processes, the mold‐pattern‐transfer method has potential to reduce processing cost as well as the manufacture of high‐resolution pixels. In this study, the effects of major processing variables of the mold‐pattern‐transfer process on the formation of air‐trapped pores within barrier ribs were examined. The results indicated that with an optimum combination of the processing variables, barrier ribs without trapped defects can be produced, demonstrating the possibility of reducing the number of processing steps and costs of barrier ribs.
Software‐processed edge‐ and level‐adaptive overdrive (SELAO) method for high‐quality motion pictures
Authors: Baba Masahiro , Itoh Goh , Okumura Haruhiko
Published: February 2007

Abstract— In this paper, a software‐processed edge‐ and level‐adaptive overdrive (SELAO) method, which is a novel overdrive technique that utilizes not only a temporal change of gray levels but also a spatial edge intensity of motion pictures, is proposed. The SELAO method is a software video‐processing technology to improve motion‐picture quality rendered on LCDs more than is possible with a conventional SLAO method without edge‐adaptive overdrive, and it works in real time on commonly used personal computers (PCs).
Design and implementation of a wavelet‐based addressing technique (WAT)
Authors: Shashidhara Amachavadi R. , Ruckmongathan Temkar N.
Published: February 2007

Abstract— The design and implementation of a wavelet‐based addressing technique capable of displaying gray shades is presented. The hardware complexity of the display drivers has been reduced by adding a few analog multiplexers that are common to the drivers. The controller was implemented by using a low‐cost complex programmable logic device (CPLD) and it was demonstrated by displaying 16 gray shades in a liquid‐crystal display.
Effect of gloss and diffuse reflectance of display frames on visual comfort
Authors: Béland Marie‐Claude , Andrén Börje
Published: February 2007

Abstract— A series of 12 display frames of different combinations of gloss levels and diffuse reflectance levels was mounted on a display to test the visual comfort of 31 test subjects. The frames were tested in a controlled environment where a light reflex was purposefully visible on the frame. The intensity of the light reflex was controllable by the user, and the dial setting was recorded for each frame. The frames were also shown in two different test office environments, one light and one dark. Qualitative comments about the frames were recorded. A gloss level of 30 gloss units corresponded to about 30% of test subjects that wanted no reflex at all to be visible on the frame. There was a significant effect of frame gloss on the acceptable light level of the reflex. When the acceptable‐light‐level dial setting was converted to luminance contrast, the acceptable luminance contrast on the frames decreased with increasing gloss, and this effect was more pronounced for black frames.
Summoning Prior Knowledge: The Influence of Metaphorical Priming on Learning in a Hypermedia Environment
Authors: Schwartz Neil H. , Stroud Michael , Hong Namsoo S. , Lee Tiffany , Scott Brianna , McGee Steven M.
Published: February 2007

This investigation was designed to determine the influence of metaphorical priming on students' comprehension of issues and concepts pertaining to the U.S. Constitution when students studied the subject matter in a problem-based hypermedia instructional system. Sixty-five high school seniors studied the system for 5 days after receiving relevant, irrelevant, or no metaphorical priming each day. Results revealed deep level comprehension and personal understanding of the instructional system only for students receiving the relevant metaphorical primer. Surface level retention as measured by multiple choice questions failed to vary between groups. Discussion focuses on theory and the use of metaphorical primers to incur deep level processing in hypermedia-based instruction.
The Bane of a Silent Illness: When Wilson's Disease Takes its Course
Authors: Chahine Lama M. , Chemali Zeina N.
Published: February 2007

We present the case of a 21-year-old young lady with Wilson's disease, asymptomatic at first and consequently declining prophylaxis with chelating agents, who presented years after her diagnosis was made with multiple motor and neuropsychiatric manifestations of the disease, causing extensive morbidity and a major decrease in her quality of life. Following extensive education and supportive therapy, she showed conviction in the need for therapy. On close follow-up she continues to show compliance with appointments, the prescribed chelating agents, and psychotropic medication.
From Monologue to Dialog to Chorus: The Place of Instrumental Discourse in English Studies and Technical Communication
Authors: Moore Patrick
Published: February 2007

One way to resolve some of the conflict in English studies and technical communication over their diminishing cultural capital is to recognize the place of instrumental discourse in communication studies. Instrumental discourse is individually verified social agreements to coordinate and control physical actions. One purpose of literary works is to voice new concerns about social inequities. A purpose of rhetoric is to persuade others of the validity of those concerns. Instrumental discourse registers agreements about those concerns and brings them to temporary closure in laws, instructions, contracts, and constitutions. Instrumental discourse is the culmination of a process that often begins with a literary monolog, is continued in many rhetorical dialogs, and ends, for a while, in a chorus of approval. Each phase of this communication process—monolog, dialog, and chorus—has a place in English studies. If more English studies faculty would recognize the need to study the communications that promote dissensus and consensus, then they might contribute more to global discussions about social justice, cooperation, and sustainability, and they might gain more cultural capital and social influence.
Vulnerability Assessment of New Jersey's Food Supply to Invasive Species: The New Jersey Import Project
Authors: Gregory Petros , Hamilton George , Borjan Marija , Robson Mark
Published: February 2007

The United States' environment and economy have been severely impacted by unintentionally introduced biological organisms for the last 100 years. Our ecosystems and biological reserves of conservation importance are regularly invaded by non-indigenous species. To help prevent future invaders from entering the ports, this project undertaken at the Port of Elizabeth proposed to: 1. Catalog the different vegetable and fruit crops entering this country; 2. Evaluate the potential risk to New Jersey crops that an introduced exotic pest might pose; and 3. Evaluate the potential that imported crops entering the U.S. have for harboring exotic pests. The New Jersey IMPORT report, or Invasive Management Promoting Open and Responsible Trade project [1], details a newly designed ecological risk assessment tool to evaluate entry potential of invasive pests at the Port of Elizabeth. Risk designations were assigned to shipments of four fruits; seven vegetables; and two field/forage crops based on: i) Country of origin; ii) Amounts of commodities imported; and iii) Endemic pests present in exporting countries. Between 5,000 and 180,000 tons of crops were imported into the Port of Elizabeth from October 2001 to 2003. Pest risk analyses were drafted for twenty-five intercepted insects taken from the Port Information Network. In addition, eighteen pest risk analyses were drafted for invasive fungi, bacteria, and viruses of global concern as alerted by ProMed Digest. It was concluded that three crops imported remain at high risk: apples, peppers, and tomatoes. Peaches, soybeans, lettuce, sweet corn, potatoes, squash, and eggplant imported were considered moderate risk. Blueberries, cranberries, and alfalfa were considered low risk.
Demographic Differences and Attitudes toward Computers among Healthcare Professionals Earning Continuing Education Credits On-Line
Authors: Mitra Ananda , Joshi Suchi , Kemper Kathi J. , Woods Charles , Gobble Jessica
Published: February 2007

The use of technology, such as the Web, has become an increasingly popular means for disseminating professional development and continuing education. Often, these methods assume a set of attitudes and skills related to the computer as a pedagogic and communication tool. We argue that it is, however, important to measure the actual attitudes of students participating in such computer-based continuing education programs since such information about attitudes toward technology (technographics) can help to understand the potential success of educational technology programs. The study explores several technographic characteristics of a health professionals participating in an on-line herbal medicine curriculum. The results indicate significant differences in attitudes toward technology between different groups of healthcare professionals, as well as differences based on gender.