bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Abstract PL03-03: Innovative policies to reduce tobacco use and harm
Authors: Hatsukami Dorothy K.
Published: June 2012

Under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, the Food and Drug Administration is now empowered to regulate tobacco products. One section of this Act describes the authority for FDA to establish tobacco product standards. This presentation will describe standards which may significantly reduce the prevalence of tobacco use and mortality and morbidity. These standards include regulating the attractiveness (e.g., formulations, packaging and flavorants), addictiveness (e.g., reducing levels of nicotine and other constituents that enhance addiction) and toxicity (e.g., establishing standards for levels of toxicants) of tobacco products. Results from the University of Minnesota, Trandisciplinary Tobacco Use Center will be presented that support these potential policies.

Citation Information: Cancer Prev Res 2011;4(10 Suppl):PL03-03.
Female Sexual Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetes: A Case Control Study
Authors: Sharifiaghdas Farzaneh , Azadvari Mohaddeseh , Shakhssalim Nasser , Roohi-Gilani Kobra , Rezaei-Hemami Mohsen
Published: June 2012

Objective: This study was designed to assess sexual dysfunction in women suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. Subjects and Methods: Forty-five type 2 diabetic, non-menopausal married women, aged 20-55 years, who were referred to Shahid Labbafinejad Clinics from March 2008 to June 2009 were included in this study. They were compared to 91 non-diabetic volunteers. Sexual function was evaluated by the sexual function questionnaire. Genitourinary examination was performed in all subjects. Blood sample tests were requested for fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A1c, 2-hour postprandial glucose and lipid profile measurements. Ophthalmologic and neurologic examinations (checking deep tendon reflexes) were done for cases. Results: The mean age of cases and controls was 42.17± 5.91 and 34.96 ± 8.30 years, respectively (p < 0.001). The prevalence of a high probability of female sexual dysfunction in 6 domains including desire, arousal sensation, arousal lubrication, orgasm, pain and enjoyment was 71.1, 84.4, 55.6, 71.1, 8.9 and 66.7% in the diabetes mellitus women and 56.6, 67.0, 59.3, 57.1, 25.3 and 53.8% in the non-diabetic volunteers, respectively. Differences were statistically significant in the 3 domains of desire, arousal sensation and pain (p < 0.05). Deep tendon reflexes were normal in all and 12.5% showed diabetic retinopathy. Conclusions: Sexual dysfunction in cases as well as in controls was high; however, further studies with a higher number of patients are needed to confirm the results.
Serum Beta 2-Microglobulin/Cystatin C Index: A Useful Biomarker in Lupus Nephritis
Authors: Madureira Silva Marcus Vinicius , Moscoso-Solorzano Grace T. , Nishida Sonia K. , Mastroianni-Kirsztajn Gianna
Published: June 2012

Background: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic multisystem autoimmune disease with frequent flares. Our aim was to evaluate the beta 2-microglobulin/cystatin C (β2M/CysC) index versus other markers as a predictor factor for assessment of SLE reactivation. Methods: We prospectively analyzed 42 patients with lupus nephritis. Disease activity was classified using SLEDAI-2K and BILAG. Routine renal function and laboratory markers of SLE activity were performed, as well as serum β2M (Sβ2M)/serum CysC (SCysC) and Sβ2M/serum creatinine (SCreat) indexes determinations. Results: The 42 enrolled patients had a mean age of 37.7 ± 13.1 years, 88% were female and 67% Caucasians; mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was 61.9 ± 20.0 ml/min/1.73 m2. There was a strong correlation between SCreat versus SCysC (r = 0.887), SCreat versus Sβ2M (r = 0.865), and SCysC versus Sβ2M (r = 0.880). Multivariate analysis showed that the Sβ2M/SCreat index is a prognostic factor predicting active lupus nephritis. Conclusion: As SCysC is a good marker of renal function, it would be expected that the Sβ2M/SCysC index could be a better indicator of renal activity than Sβ2M/SCreat, but in the present study it did not add relevant clinical information in the assessment of renal activity in SLE.
Rise in Plasma Lactate Concentrations with Psychosocial Stress: A Possible Sign of Cerebral Energy Demand
Authors: Kubera Britta , Hubold Christian , Otte Saskia , Lindenberg Ann-Sophie , Zeiß Irena , Krause Regina , Steinkamp Mirja , Klement Johanna , Entringer Sonja , Pellerin Luc , Peters Achim
Published: June 2012

Objective: It is known that exogenous lactate given as an i.v. energy infusion is able to counteract a neuroglycopenic state that developed during psychosocial stress. It is unknown, however, whether the brain under stressful conditions can induce a rise in plasma lactate to satisfy its increased needs during stress. Since lactate is i) an alternative cerebral energy substrate to glucose and ii) its plasmatic concentration is influenced by the sympathetic nervous system, the present study aimed at investigating whether plasma lactate concentrations increase with psychosocial stress in humans. Methods: 30 healthy young men participated in two sessions (stress induced by the Trier Social Stress Test and a non-stress control session). Blood samples were frequently taken to assess plasma lactate concentrations and stress hormone profiles. Results: Plasma lactate increased 47% during psychosocial stress (from 0.9 ± 0.05 to 1.4 ± 0.1 mmol/l; interaction time × stress intervention: F = 19.7, p < 0.001). This increase in lactate concentrations during stress was associated with an increase in epinephrine (R2 = 0.221, p = 0.02) and ACTH concentrations (R2 = 0.460, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Plasma lactate concentrations increase during acute psychosocial stress in humans. This finding suggests the existence of a demand mechanism that functions to allocate an additional source of energy from the body towards the brain, which we refer to as ‘cerebral lactate demand’.
Ischemic Preconditioning for Prevention of Contrast Medium–Induced Nephropathy
Authors: Er Fikret , Nia Amir M. , Dopp Henning , Hellmich Martin , Dahlem Kristina M. , Caglayan Evren , Kubacki Torsten , Benzing Thomas , Erdmann Erland , Burst Volker , Gassanov Natig
Published: June 2012

Background—

Contrast medium–induced acute kidney injury is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The underlying mechanism has been attributed in part to ischemic kidney injury. The aim of this randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial was to assess the impact of remote ischemic preconditioning on contrast medium–induced acute kidney injury.

Methods and Results—

Patients with impaired renal function (serum creatinine >1.4 mg/dL or estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL · min
−1
· 1.73 m
−2
) undergoing elective coronary angiography were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to standard care with (n=50) or without ischemic preconditioning (n=50; intermittent arm ischemia through 4 cycles of 5-minute inflation and 5-minute deflation of a blood pressure cuff). Overall, both study groups were at high risk of developing contrast medium–induced acute kidney injury according to the Mehran risk score. The primary end point was the incidence of contrast medium–induced kidney injury, defined as an increase in serum creatinine ≥25% or ≥0.5 mg/dL above baseline at 48 hours after contrast medium exposure. Contrast medium–induced acute kidney injury occurred in 26 patients (26%), 20 (40%) in the control group and 6 (12%) in the remote ischemic preconditioning group (odds ratio, 0.21; 95% confidence interval, 0.07–0.57;
P
=0.002). No major adverse events were related to remote ischemic preconditioning.

Conclusions—

Remote ischemic preconditioning before contrast medium use prevents contrast medium–induced acute kidney injury in high-risk patients. Our findings merit a larger trial to establish the effect of remote ischemic preconditioning on clinical outcomes.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.germanctr.de
. Unique identifier: U1111-1118-8098.
Computer Therapy Compared With Usual Care for People With Long-Standing Aphasia Poststroke
Authors: Palmer Rebecca , Enderby Pam , Cooper Cindy , Latimer Nick , Julious Steven , Paterson Gail , Dimairo Munyaradzi , Dixon Simon , Mortley Jane , Hilton Rose , Delaney Audrey , Hughes Helen
Published: June 2012

Background and Purpose—

The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial to study the effectiveness of self-managed computer treatment for people with long-standing aphasia after stroke.

Method—

In this pilot single-blinded, parallel-group, randomized controlled trial participants with aphasia were allocated to self-managed computer treatment with volunteer support or usual care (everyday language activity). The 5-month intervention period was followed by 3 months without intervention to investigate treatment maintenance.

Results—

Thirty-four participants were recruited. Seventeen participants were allocated to each group. Thirteen participants from the usual care group and 15 from the computer treatment group were followed up at 5 months. An average of 4 hours 43 minutes speech and language therapy time and 4 hours volunteer support time enabled an average of 25 hours of independent practice. The difference in percentage change in naming ability from baseline at 5 months between groups was 19.8% (95% CI, 4.4–35.2;
P
=0.014) in favor of the treatment group. Participants with more severe aphasia showed little benefit. Results demonstrate early indications of cost-effectiveness of self-managed computer therapy.

Conclusion—

This pilot trial indicates that self-managed computer therapy for aphasia is feasible and that it will be practical to recruit sufficient participants to conduct an appropriately powered clinical trial to investigate the effectiveness of self-managed computer therapy for people with long-standing aphasia.

Clinical Trial Registration—

www.controlled-trials.com
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN91534629.
A Clustering Approach to Compare Cloud Model Simulations to Satellite Observations
Authors: Wang Fang , Kummerow Christian
Published: June 2012

Cloud-resolving models (CRMs) offer an important pathway to interpret satellite observations of microphysical properties of storms. High-frequency microwave brightness temperatures (Tbs) respond to precipitating-sized ice particles and can therefore be compared with simulated Tbs at the same frequencies. By clustering the Tb vectors at these frequencies, the scene can be classified into distinct microphysical regimes (in other words, cloud types). A convective storm over the Amazon observed by the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) is simulated using the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) in a semi-ideal setting, and four regimes are defined within the scene using cluster analysis: the “clear sky/thin cirrus” cluster, the “cloudy” cluster, the “stratiform anvil” cluster, and the “convective” cluster. Cluster-by-cluster comparisons between the observations and the simulations disclose biases in the model that are consistent with an overproduction of supercooled water and an excess of large hail particles. While other problems cannot be completely ruled out, the method does provide some guidance to assess microphysical fidelity within each cluster or cloud type. Guided by the apparent model/observational discrepancies in the convective cloud cluster, the hail size parameter was adjusted in order to produce a greater number of smaller hail particles consistent with the observations. While the work cannot define microphysical errors in an unambiguously fashion, the cluster analysis is seen as useful to isolate individual microphysical inconsistencies that can then be addressed within each cluster of cloud type.
Applicability of AIRS Monthly Mean Atmospheric Water Vapor Profiles over the Tibetan Plateau Region
Authors: Zhang Yuwei , Wang Donghai , Zhai Panmao , Gu Guojun
Published: June 2012

The research explores the applicability of the gridded (level 3) monthly tropospheric water vapor (version 5) retrievals from the Atmospheric Infrared Sounder (AIRS) instrument and the Advanced Microwave Sounding Unit (AMSU) on board the NASA Aqua satellite over the Tibetan Plateau by comparing them with carefully processed radiosonde data. Local correlation analyses indicate that below 200 hPa, the AIRS/AMSU monthly water vapor retrievals are highly consistent with radiosondes over the whole plateau region, especially in the southeastern part and between 300 and 600 hPa. Relative deviation analyses further show that the differences between monthly mean AIRS/AMSU water vapor retrieval data and radiosondes are, in general, small below 250 hPa, in particular between 300 and 600 hPa and in high-altitude areas. Combined with a further direct comparison between AIRS/AMSU water vapor vertical retrievals and radiosonde observations averaged over the entire domain, these results suggest that the gridded monthly AIRS/AMSU water vapor retrievals can provide a very good account of spatial patterns and temporal variations in tropospheric water vapor content in the Tibetan Plateau region, in particular below 200 hPa. However, differences between AIRS/AMSU retrievals and radiosondes are seen at various levels, in particular above the level of 250 hPa. Therefore, for detailed quantitative analyses of water budget in the atmosphere and the entire water cycle, AIRS/AMSU retrieval data may need to be corrected or trained using radiosondes. Two fitting functions are derived for warm and cold seasons, although the seasonal difference is generally small.
The Fennec Automatic Weather Station (AWS) Network: Monitoring the Saharan Climate System
Authors: Hobby Matthew , Gascoyne Matthew , Marsham John H. , Bart Mark , Allen Christopher , Engelstaedter Sebastian , Fadel Dieh Mohamed , Gandega Abdoulaye , Lane Richard , McQuaid James B. , Ouchene Bouziane , Ouladichir Abdelkader , Parker Douglas J. , Rosenberg Phil , Ferroudj Mohammed Salah , Saci Azzedine , Seddik Fouad , Todd Martin , Walker Dan , Washington Richard
Published: June 2012

The Fennec automatic weather station (AWS) network consists of eight stations installed across the Sahara, with four in remote locations in the central desert, where no previous meteorological observations have existed. The AWS measures temperature, humidity, pressure, wind speed, wind direction, shortwave and longwave radiation (upwelling and downwelling), ground heat flux, and ground temperature. Data are recorded every 3 min 20 s, that is, at 3 times the temporal resolution of the World Meteorological Organization’s standard 10-min reporting for winds and wind gusts. Variations in wind speeds on shorter time scales are recorded through the use of second- and third-order moments of 1-Hz data. Using the Iridium Router-Based Unrestricted Digital Internetworking Connectivity Solutions (RUDICS) service, data are transmitted in near–real time (1-h lag) to the United Kingdom, where calibrations are applied and data are uploaded to the Global Telecommunications System (GTS), for assimilation into forecast models.

This paper describes the instrumentation used and the data available from the network. Particular focus is given to the engineering applied to the task of making measurements in this remote region and challenging climate. The communications protocol developed to operate over the Iridium RUDICS satellite service is described. Transmitting the second moment of the wind speed distribution is shown to improve estimates of the dust-generating potential of observed winds, especially for winds close to the threshold speed for dust emission of the wind speed distribution. Sources of error are discussed and some preliminary results are presented, demonstrating the system’s potential to record key features of this region.
Adult Children of Gay and Lesbian Parents
Authors: Lytle Megan C. , Foley Pamela F. , Aster Amanda M.
Published: June 2012

Previous scholars have explored various challenges facing children of gay and lesbian individuals, and some have explored the impact of a parent’s sexual orientation on the parent-child relationship. However, the impact of religion on the parent-child relationships of adult children with a gay or lesbian parent has been overlooked. In this study, 10 adult children with both a gay or lesbian parent and a heterosexual parent were interviewed and asked to retrospectively explore how religion impacted their parent-child relationships. The following themes emerged from phenomenological analysis of the interviews: (a) family break-up more difficult than the parents’ coming out; (b) discovery that parent was gay or lesbian; (c) initial shame over having a gay or lesbian parent; (d) positive aspects of having a gay or lesbian parent; (e) redefined relationship with religion; and (f) impact of culture on how gay and lesbian individuals are viewed.
Outcomes of Patients on Multiple Vasoactive Drugs for Shock
Authors: Prys-Picard Curig O. , Shah Shiwan K. , Williams Brandie D. , Cardenas Victor , Sharma Gulshan
Published: June 2012

Introduction:

Vasoactive drugs are routinely used in critically ill patients with shock to optimize the hemodynamic state while evaluating and treating potentially reversible causes. Limited data exist on the use of multiple vasoactive drugs in the intensive care unit. We hypothesize that the use of 3 or more vasoactive drugs is associated with worse outcomes.

Methods:

We retrospectively examined the outcome in patients, at least 18 years of age, in whom 3 or more vasoactive drugs were administered simultaneously. We included patients admitted between November 2007 and August 2009. Vasoactive drugs included dopamine, dobutamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, phenylephrine, and vasopressin. The primary end point was survival to hospital discharge.

Results:

Sixty-six patients received 3 or more vasoactive drugs simultaneously. Nine patients (14%) survived to ICU discharge and 6 patients (9%) survived to hospital discharge. There was a significant difference in mean Simplified Acute Physiology Score II between survivors (32.3 ± 28.6) and nonsurvivors (72.1 ± 30.4), P = .003. Five of the 6 survivors had an acute cardiac procedure, either percutaneous cardiac intervention or heart transplantation. The 1 patient with septic shock who survived had surgery for a bowel perforation. All patients who survived received inotropic therapy (dobutamine). None of the patients who received 4 or more vasoactive drugs survived.

Conclusion:

Patients requiring 3 or more vasoactive drugs rarely survive in the absence of an intervention aimed at correcting the underlying cause such as revascularization or source control surgery.
The Effects of Lisdexamfetamine Dimesylate on Emotional Lability in Children 6 to 12 Years of Age With ADHD in a Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
Authors: Childress Ann C. , Arnold Valerie , Adeyi Ben , Dirks Bryan , Babcock Thomas , Scheckner Brian , Lasser Robert , Lopez Frank A.
Published: June 2012

Objective: To evaluate the effect of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) on emotional lability (EL) in children with ADHD. Method: Post hoc analyses of a placebo-controlled trial of LDX-stratified children (aged 6-12 years) with ADHD to prominent and not prominent EL at baseline (score >3 or ≤3, respectively, on Conners’ Parent Rating Scale [CPRS] items of anger, loss of temper, and irritability). Efficacy was assessed by change in CPRS EL scores and ADHD Rating Scale-IV (ADHD-RS-IV) total and subscale scores. Safety measures included treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs). Results: LDX showed improvement versus placebo ( p < .0005) for EL item least squares (LS) mean change scores at endpoint and throughout the day. At baseline, 138 and 73 participants randomized to LDX treatment and having baseline and endpoint CPRS scores were categorized with CPRS-derived prominent and not prominent baseline EL, respectively; 41 and 31 participants randomized to placebo were categorized with CPRS-derived prominent and not prominent baseline EL, respectively. ADHD-RS-IV total and subscale scores decreased with LDX regardless of baseline EL severity. TEAEs included decreased appetite, insomnia, upper abdominal pain, headache, and irritability. Conclusion: EL and ADHD symptoms improved with LDX regardless of baseline EL symptom severity. LDX demonstrated a safety profile consistent with long-acting psychostimulant use.
Does the type of urinary diversion affect the result of distal hypospadias repair? A prospective randomized trial
Authors: Radwan Mohamed , Soliman Mohamed Gaber , Tawfik Ahmed , Abo-Elenen Mohamed , El-Benday Mohamed
Published: June 2012

Purpose:

The purpose of this review is to evaluate different techniques in urinary diversion and urethral stenting in hypospadias surgery.

Patients and methods:

The surgical procedure included 192 tubularized incised plate (TIP) repairs for distal penile hypospadias. The patients were prospectively randomized into three groups: In group A, a urethral catheter was used as a stent and for diversion of urine (63 patients); in group B we use no urethral stenting (63 patients), only a suprapubic catheter; and in group C we use a suprapubic diversion and we put a small catheter in the anterior urethra only (66 patients). The urethral catheter was removed in group A at the 6th–7th postoperative day and in group C the urethral stent was removed at the 3rd–4th postoperative day. The suprapubic catheter was removed in both groups B and C at the 7th–9th postoperative day. All patients received an injection of antibiotics in the morning of the operation and daily until the day of catheter removal. All of the operations were performed by the same surgeon.

Results:

The mean ages of our patients were 3, 5, and 5 years in groups A, B, and C, respectively. The mean hospital stay was 5 days (3–8). Follow-up ranged from 8 to 48 months (mean of 21.5 ± 10.1 months). Bladder spasm was observed in 33% of our patients in group A while there were no cases of spasm in the other two groups with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). Fistula was reported in eight patients (12.7%) of our urethral catheter group A, while it was observed in three patients (2.3%) of our suprapubic diversion groups B and C with a statistically significant difference between the two groups (p < 0.05). Meatal stenosis was reported in eight patients in group B (12.7%; nonstented group) versus three patients of both groups A and C (2.4%; stented groups) with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Suprapubic diversion is an important step in hypospadias repair as it provides a better success rate with a significantly lower rate of occurrence of fistula. However, the addition of a stent in the anterior urethra to suprapubic diversion avoids the development of meatal stenosis and also avoids the bladder spasm observed with a urethral catheter.
β-empirical Bayes inference and model diagnosis of microarray data
Authors: Hossain Mollah Mohammad Manir , Haque Mollah M Nurul , Kishino Hirohisa
Published: June 2012

Background

Microarray data enables the high-throughput survey of mRNA expression profiles at the genomic level; however, the data presents a challenging statistical problem because of the large number of transcripts with small sample sizes that are obtained. To reduce the dimensionality, various Bayesian or empirical Bayes hierarchical models have been developed. However, because of the complexity of the microarray data, no model can explain the data fully. It is generally difficult to scrutinize the irregular patterns of expression that are not expected by the usual statistical gene by gene models.

Results

As an extension of empirical Bayes (EB) procedures, we have developed theβ-empirical Bayes (β-EB) approach based on aβ-likelihood measure which can be regarded as an ’evidence-based’ weighted (quasi-) likelihood inference. The weight of a transcripttis described as a power function of its likelihood,fβ(yt|θ). Genes with low likelihoods have unexpected expression patterns and low weights. By assigning low weights to outliers, the inference becomes robust. The value ofβ, which controls the balance between the robustness and efficiency, is selected by maximizing the predictiveβ0-likelihood by cross-validation. The proposedβ-EB approach identified six significant (p< 10−5) contaminated transcripts as differentially expressed (DE) in normal/tumor tissues from the head and neck of cancer patients. These six genes were all confirmed to be related to cancer; they were not identified as DE genes by the classical EB approach. When applied to the eQTL analysis ofArabidopsis thaliana, the proposedβ-EB approach identified some potential master regulators that were missed by the EB approach.

Conclusions

The simulation data and real gene expression data showed that the proposedβ-EB method was robust against outliers. The distribution of the weights was used to scrutinize the irregular patterns of expression and diagnose the model statistically. Whenβ-weights outside the range of the predicted distribution were observed, a detailed inspection of the data was carried out. Theβ-weights described here can be applied to other likelihood-based statistical models for diagnosis, and may serve as a useful tool for transcriptome and proteome studies.
Expression of 5 S rRNA genes linked to 35 S rDNA in plants, their epigenetic modification and regulatory element divergence
Authors: Garcia Sònia , Crhák Khaitová Lucie , Kovařík Aleš
Published: June 2012

Background

In plants, the 5 S rRNA genes usually occur as separate tandems (S-type arrangement) or, less commonly, linked to 35 S rDNA units (L-type). The activity of linked genes remains unknown so far. We studied the homogeneity and expression of 5 S genes in several species from family Asteraceae known to contain linked 35 S-5 S units. Additionally, their methylation status was determined using bisulfite sequencing. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was applied to reveal the sub-nuclear positions of rDNA arrays.

Results

We found that homogenization of L-type units went to completion in most (4/6) but not all species. Two species contained major L-type and minor S-type units (termed Ls-type). The linked genes dominate 5 S rDNA expression while the separate tandems do not seem to be expressed. Members of tribe Anthemideae evolved functional variants of the polymerase III promoter in which a residing C-box element differs from the canonical angiosperm motif by as much as 30%. On this basis, a more relaxed consensus sequence of a plant C-box: (5’-RGSWTGGGTG-3’) is proposed. The 5 S paralogs display heavy DNA methylation similarly as to their unlinked counterparts. FISH revealed the close association of 35 S-5 S arrays with nucleolar periphery indicating that transcription of 5 S genes may occur in this territory.

Conclusions

We show that the unusual linked arrangement of 5 S genes, occurring in several plant species, is fully compatible with their expression and functionality. This extraordinary 5 S gene dynamics is manifested at different levels, such as variation in intrachromosomal positions, unit structure, epigenetic modification and considerable divergence of regulatory motifs.
Significance of fragmented QRS complexes for identifying culprit lesions in patients with non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction: a single-center, retrospective analysis of 183 cases
Authors: Guo Rong , Li Yuanmin , Xu Yawei , Tang Kai , Li Weimin
Published: June 2012

Background

Fragmented QRS (fQRS) complexes are novel electrocardiographic signals, which reflect myocardial conduction delays in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The importance of fQRS complexes in identifying culprit vessels was evaluated in this retrospective study.

Methods

A 12-lead surface electrocardiogram was obtained in 183 patients who had non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI) and subsequently underwent coronary angiography (CAG). On the basis of the frequency of fQRS complexes, indices such as sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values, and likelihood ratio were evaluated to determine the ability of fQRS complexes to identify the culprit vessels.

Results

Among the patients studied, elderly patients (age ≥ 65 years) and those with diabetes had a significantly higher frequency of fQRS complexes (p = 0.005, p = 0.003, respectively). The fQRS complexes recorded in the 4 precordial leads had the highest specificity (81.8%) for indentifying the culprit vessel (left anterior descending artery). However, the specificity of fQRS complexes to identify lesions in the left circumflex and right coronary arteries was lower for the inferior and lateral leads than for the limb leads (65.5% versus 71.7%); however, the limb leads had higher sensitivity (92.3% versus 89.4%). And the total sensitivity and specificity of fQRS (77.1% and 71.5%) were higher than those values for ischemic T-waves.

Conclusions

The frequency of fQRS complexes was higher in elderly and diabetic patients with NSTEMI. The frequency of fQRS complexes recorded in each of the ECG leads can be used to identify culprit vessels in patients with NSTEMI.
Japanese encephalitis accompanied by cerebral venous sinus thrombosis: a case report
Authors: Jia Min , Xiong Nian , Huang Jinsha , Wang Youpei , Zhang Xiaowei , Zhang Zhentao , Cao Xuebing , Lin Zhicheng , Wang Tao
Published: June 2012

Background

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) is a relatively rare cerebrovascular condition which accounts for 0.5% of all strokes. Risk of CVST has been documented in patients with numerous conditions including central nervous system infections, however, Japanese encephalitis (JE, epidemic encephalitis type B) with CVST has not been reported previously.

Case Presentation

Here, we present a case of JE with CVST in a 17-year-old man. On admission, the patient was initially diagnosed as intracranial infection, and soon after, brain magnetic resonance (MR) imaging (MRI) and MR Venography (MRV) confirmed the diagnosis of CVST. Moreover, the blood JE-specific IgM antibody which proved weakly positive at first, turned positive one week later. Consequently, our patient was diagnosed as CVST accompanied by JE. Anticoagulant and anti-infective therapy were initiated, which eventually lead to gradual recovery of the patient.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of CVST associated with JE. MRI and MRV represent a prime method for the diagnosis of CVST, while the positivity of JE virus IgM antibody, especially increased antibody levels within a short period, is of great significance to diagnose JE. The early diagnosis and timely treatment of this potentially lethal condition would improve its prognosis significantly.
Microtubule S-glutathionylation as a potential approach for antimitotic agents
Authors: Chen Wei , Seefeldt Teresa , Young Alan , Zhang Xiaoying , Zhao Yong , Ruffolo John , Kaushik Radhey S , Guan Xiangming
Published: June 2012

Background

Microtubules have been one of the most effective targets for the development of anticancer agents. Cancer cells treated by these agents are characterized by cell arrest at G2/M phase. Microtubule-targeting drugs are, therefore, referred to as antimitotic agents. However, the clinical application of the current antimitotic drugs is hampered by emerging drug resistance which is the major cause of cancer treatment failure. The clinical success of antimitotic drugs and emerging drug resistance has prompted a search for new antimitotic agents, especially those with novel mechanisms of action. The aim of this study was to determine whether microtubules can be S-glutathionylated in cancer cells and whether the glutathionylation will lead to microtubule dysfunction and cell growth inhibition. The study will determine whether microtubule S-glutathionylation can be a novel approach for antimitotic agents.

Methods

2-Acetylamino-3-[4-(2-acetylamino-2-carboxyethylsulfanylcarbonylamino)phenyl carbamoylsulfanyl]propionic acid (2-AAPA) was used as a tool to induce microtubule S-glutathionylation. UACC-62 cells, a human melanoma cell line, were used as a cancer cell model. A pull-down assay with glutathione S-transferase (GST)-agarose beads followed by Western blot analysis was employed to confirm microtubule S-glutathionylation. Immunofluorescence microscopy using a mouse monoclonal anti-α-tubulin-FITC was used to study the effect of the S-glutathionylation on microtubule function; mainly polymerization and depolymerization. Flow cytometry was employed to examine the effect of the S-glutathionylation on cell cycle distribution and apoptosis. Cell morphological change was followed through the use of a Zeiss AXIO Observer A1 microscope. Cancer cell growth inhibition by 2-AAPA was investigated with ten human cancer cell lines.

Results

Our investigation demonstrated that cell morphology was changed and microtubules were S-glutathionylated in the presence of 2-AAPA in UACC-62 cells. Accordingly, microtubules were found depolymerized and cells were arrested at G2/M phase. The affected cells were found to undergo apoptosis. Cancer growth inhibition experiments demonstrated that the concentrations of 2-AAPA required to produce the effects on microtubules were compatible to the concentrations producing cancer cell growth inhibition.

Conclusions

The data from this investigation confirms that microtubule S-glutathionylation leads to microtubule dysfunction and cell growth inhibition and can be a novel approach for developing antimitotic agents.
Osteopontin’s colocalization with the adhesion molecule CEACAM5 in cytoplasm of carcinoma of tongue and its correlation with the invasion of that diease
Authors: Zhang Fan , Jin Liu Xu , Qu Xun , Sheng Hu Zhen , Yang Yong Mei , Ma Ling , Liu Pei , Shi Ping , Cai Wei Feng
Published: June 2012

The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 5 (CEACAM5) and correlate it with OPN expression and function in squamous carcinoma of tongue.

Paraffin were sections of 80 samples with squamous carcinoma of tongue and 40 samples with normal tissue of tongue for benign lesion having undergone surgery. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to study the distribution of CEACAM5 and OPN, and double–labeling immunohistochemistry was used to observe the relationship between CEACAM5 and OPN expression.

CEACAM5 and OPN are found in normal tissue of tongue, but with different expression pattern. CEACAM5 expression mainly with membranous staining is restricted on the superficial epithelium. However, OPN expression with mainly cytoplasmic staining is restricted on the deep epithelium. No colocalization of CEACAM5 and OPN have been observed in normal tissue of tongue. In squamous carcinoma of tongue, CEACAM5 expression with cytoplasmic staining is different from normal tongue tissue with membranous staining, and the transformation of CEACAM5 distribution from membrane to cytoplasm is an important incident for the invasion and differentiation of tumor. CEACAM5 and OPN are colocalized in cytoplasm, and a significant correlation was observed between the positive colocalization and the negative colocalization in the depth of invasion and the differentiation of the tumor.
Highly conformal electrodeposition of copolymer electrolytes into titania nanotubes for 3D Li-ion batteries
Authors: Plylahan Nareerat , Kyeremateng Nana Amponsah , Eyraud Marielle , Dumur Frederic , Martinez Hervé , Santinacci Lionel , Knauth Philippe , Djenizian Thierry
Published: June 2012

The highly conformal electrodeposition of a copolymer electrolyte (PMMA-PEO) into self-organized titania nanotubes (TiO2nt) is reported. The morphological analysis carried out by scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy evidenced the formation of a 3D nanostructure consisting of a copolymer-embedded TiO2nt. The thickness of the copolymer layer can be accurately controlled by monitoring the electropolymerization parameters. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements confirmed that bis(trifluoromethanesulfone)imide salt was successfully incorporated into the copolymer electrolyte during the deposition process. These results are crucial to fabricate a 3D Li-ion power source at the micrometer scale using TiO2nt as the negative electrode.
Virological effectiveness and CD4+ T-cell increase over early and late courses in HIV infected patients on antiretroviral therapy: focus on HCV and anchor class received
Authors: Motta Davide , Brianese Nigritella , Focà Emanuele , Nasta Paola , Maggiolo Franco , Fabbiani Massimiliano , Cologni Giuliana , Di Giambenedetto Simona , Di Pietro Massimo , Ladisa Nicoletta , Sighinolfi Laura , Costarelli Silvia , Castelnuovo Filippo , Torti Carlo
Published: June 2012

Background

The aim of this study was to explore the effects of HCV co-infection on virological effectiveness and on CD4+ T-cell recovery in patients with an early and sustained virological response after HAART.

Methods

We performed a longitudinal analysis of 3,262 patients from the MASTER cohort, who started HAART from 2000 to 2008. Patients were stratified into 6 groups by HCV status and type of anchor class. The early virological outcome was the achievement of HIV RNA <500 copies/ml 4–8 months after HAART initiation. Time to virological response was also evaluated by Kaplan-Meier analysis. The main outcome measure of early immunological response was the achievement of CD4+ T-cell increase by ≥100/mm3 from baseline to month 4–8 in virological responder patients. Late immunological outcome was absolute variation of CD4+ T-cell count with respect to baseline up to month 24. Multivariable analysis (ANCOVA) investigated predictors for this outcome.

Results

The early virological response was higher in HCV Ab-negative than HCV Ab-positive patients prescribed PI/r (92.2% versus 88%; p = 0.01) or NNRTI (88.5% versus 84.7%; p = 0.06). HCV Ab-positive serostatus was a significant predictor of a delayed virological suppression independently from other variables, including types of anchor class. Reactivity for HCV antibodies was associated with a lower probability of obtaining ≥100/mm3 CD4+ increase within 8 months from HAART initiation in patients treated with PI/r (62.2% among HCV Ab-positive patients versus 70.9% among HCV Ab-negative patients; p = 0.003) and NNRTI (63.7% versus 74.7%; p < 0.001). Regarding late CD4+ increase, positive HCV Ab appeared to impair immune reconstitution in terms of absolute CD4+ T-cell count increase both in patients treated with PI/r (p = 0.013) and in those treated with NNRTI (p = 0.002). This was confirmed at a multivariable analysis up to 12 months of follow-up.

Conclusions

In this large cohort, HCV Ab reactivity was associated with an inferior virological outcome and an independent association between HCV Ab-positivity and smaller CD4+ increase was evident up to 12 months of follow-up. Although the difference in CD4+ T-cell count was modest, a stricter follow-up and optimization of HAART strategy appear to be important in HIV patients co-infected by HCV. Moreover, our data support anti-HCV treatment leading to HCV eradication as a means to facilitate the achievement of the viro-immunological goals of HAART.
Protective efficacy of a broadly cross-reactive swine influenza DNA vaccine encoding M2e, cytotoxic T lymphocyte epitope and consensus H3 hemagglutinin
Authors: Wang Bin , Yu Hai , Yang Fu-Ru , Huang Meng , Ma Ji-Hong , Tong Guang-Zhi
Published: June 2012

Background

Pigs have been implicated as mixing reservoir for the generation of new pandemic influenza strains, control of swine influenza has both veterinary and public health significance. Unlike human influenza vaccines, strains used for commercially available swine influenza vaccines are not regularly replaced, making the vaccines provide limited protection against antigenically diverse viruses. It is therefore necessary to develop broadly protective swine influenza vaccines that are efficacious to both homologous and heterologous virus infections. In this study, two forms of DNA vaccines were constructed, one was made by fusing M2e to consensus H3HA (MHa), which represents the majority of the HA sequences of H3N2 swine influenza viruses. Another was made by fusing M2e and a conserved CTL epitope (NP147-155) to consensus H3HA (MNHa). Their protective efficacies against homologous and heterologous challenges were tested.

Results

BALB/c mice were immunized twice by particle-mediated epidermal delivery (gene gun) with the two DNA vaccines. It was shown that the two vaccines elicited substantial antibody responses, and MNHa induced more significant T cell-mediated immune response than MHa did. Then two H3N2 strains representative of different evolutional and antigenic clusters were used to challenge the vaccine-immunized mice (homosubtypic challenge). Results indicated that both of the DNA vaccines prevented homosubtypic virus infections completely. The vaccines’ heterologous protective efficacies were further tested by challenging with a H1N1 swine influenza virus and a reassortant 2009 pandemic strain. It was found that MNHa reduced the lung viral titers significantly in both challenge groups, histopathological observation showed obvious reduction of lung pathogenesis as compared to MHa and control groups.

Conclusions

The combined utility of the consensus HA and the conserved M2e and CTL epitope can confer complete and partial protection against homologous and heterologous challenges, respectively, in mouse model. This may provide a basis for the development of universal swine influenza vaccines.
LDLR-related protein 10 (LRP10) regulates amyloid precursor protein (APP) trafficking and processing: evidence for a role in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Brodeur Julie , Thériault Caroline , Lessard-Beaudoin Mélissa , Marcil Alexandre , Dahan Sophie , Lavoie Christine
Published: June 2012

Background

The Aβ peptide that accumulates in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is derived from amyloid precursor protein (APP) following proteolysis by β- and γ-secretases. Substantial evidence indicates that alterations in APP trafficking within the secretory and endocytic pathways directly impact the interaction of APP with these secretases and subsequent Aβ production. Various members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) family have been reported to play a role in APP trafficking and processing and are important risk factors in AD. We recently characterized a distinct member of the LDLR family called LDLR-related protein 10 (LRP10) that shuttles between the trans-Golgi Network (TGN), plasma membrane (PM), and endosomes. Here we investigated whether LRP10 participates in APP intracellular trafficking and Aβ production.

Results

In this report, we provide evidence that LRP10 is a functional APP receptor involved in APP trafficking and processing. LRP10 interacts directly with the ectodomain of APP and colocalizes with APP at the TGN. Increased expression of LRP10 in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells induces the accumulation of mature APP in the Golgi and reduces its presence at the cell surface and its processing into Aβ, while knockdown of LRP10 expression increases Aβ production. Mutations of key motifs responsible for the recycling of LRP10 to the TGN results in the aberrant redistribution of APP with LRP10 to early endosomes and a concomitant increase in APP β-cleavage into Aβ. Furthermore, expression of LRP10 is significantly lower in the post-mortem brain tissues of AD patients, supporting a possible role for LRP10 in AD.

Conclusions

The present study identified LRP10 as a novel APP sorting receptor that protects APP from amyloidogenic processing, suggesting that a decrease in LRP10 function may contribute to the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease.
Effects of the tropical ginger compound,1’-acetoxychavicol acetate, against tumor promotion in K5.Stat3C transgenic mice
Authors: Batra Vinita , Syed Zanobia , Gill Jennifer N , Coburn Malari A , Adegboyega Patrick , DiGiovanni John , Mathis J Michael , Shi Runhua , Clifford John L , Kleiner-Hancock Heather E
Published: June 2012

The purpose of the current study was to determine whether a tropical ginger derived compound 1’-acetoxychavicol acetate (ACA), suppresses skin tumor promotion in K5.Stat3C mice. In a two-week study in which wild-type (WT) and K5.Stat3C mice were co-treated with either vehicle, ACA, galanga extract, or fluocinolone acetonide (FA) and tetradecanoyl phorbol acetate (TPA), only the galanga extract and FA suppressed TPA-induced skin hyperproliferation and wet weight. None of these agents were effective at suppressing p-Tyr705Stat3 expression. However, ACA and FA showed promising inhibitory effects against skin tumorigenesis in K5.Stat3C mice. ACA also suppressed phospho-p65 NF-κB activation, suggesting a potential mechanism for its action.
High-functioning autism spectrum disorder and fragile X syndrome: report of two affected sisters
Authors: Chaste Pauline , Betancur Catalina , Gérard-Blanluet Marion , Bargiacchi Anne , Kuzbari Suzanne , Drunat Séverine , Leboyer Marion , Bourgeron Thomas , Delorme Richard
Published: June 2012

Background

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability (ID), as well as the most frequent monogenic cause of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Men with FXS exhibit ID, often associated with autistics features, whereas women heterozygous for the full mutation are typically less severely affected; about half have a normal or borderline intelligence quotient (IQ). Previous findings have shown a strong association between ID and ASD in both men and women with FXS. We describe here the case of two sisters with ASD and FXS but without ID. One of the sisters presented with high-functioning autism, the other one with pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified and low normal IQ.

Methods

The methylation status of the mutated FMR1 alleles was examined by Southern blot and methylation-sensitive polymerase chain reaction. The X-chromosome inactivation was determined by analyzing the methylation status of the androgen receptor at Xq12.

Results

Both sisters carried a full mutation in the FMR1 gene, with complete methylation and random X chromosome inactivation. We present the phenotype of the two sisters and other family members.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that autistic behaviors and cognitive impairment can manifest as independent traits in FXS. Mutations in FMR1, known to cause syndromic autism, may also contribute to the etiology of high-functioning, non-syndromic ASD, particularly in women. Thus, screening for FXS in patients with ASD should not be limited to those with comorbid ID.
Maximum metabolic rate, relative lift, wingbeat frequency, and stroke amplitude during tethered-flight in the adult locustLocusta migratoria
Authors: Snelling Edward P. , Seymour Roger S. , Matthews Philip G. D. , White Craig R.
Published: June 2012

Flying insects achieve the highest mass-specific aerobic metabolic rates of all animals. However, few studies attempt to maximise the metabolic cost of flight and so many estimates could be sub-maximal, especially where insects have been tethered. To address this issue, oxygen consumption was measured during tethered-flight in adult locusts Locusta migratoria, some of which had a weight attached to each wing (totalling 30-45% of body mass). Mass-specific metabolic rates (μmol O2 g-1 h-1) increase from 28 ± 2 at rest, to 896 ± 101 during flight in weighted locusts, and 1032 ± 69 in unweighted locusts. Maximum metabolic rate of locusts during tethered-flight (MMR; μmol O2 h-1) increases with body mass (Mb; g) according to the allometric equation, MMR = 994Mb0.75 ± 0.19, whereas published metabolic rates of moths and orchid bees during hovering free-flight (HMR) is approximately 2.8-fold higher, HMR = 2767Mb0.72 ± 0.08. The modest flight metabolic rate of locusts is unlikely to be an artefact of individuals failing to exert themselves, because mean maximum lift was not significantly different from body mass (95 ± 8%), mean wingbeat frequency was 23.7 ± 0.6 Hz, and mean stroke amplitude was 105 ± 5 degrees in the forewing and 96 ± 5 in the hindwing – all of which are close to free-flight values. Instead, the low cost of flight could reflect the relatively small size and relatively modest anatomical power-density of the locust flight motor, which is a likely evolutionary trade-off between flight muscle maintenance costs and aerial performance.