bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Communication With Friends in Sexual Initiation
Authors: Busse Peter , Fishbein Martin , Bleakley Amy , Hennessy Michael
Published: February 2010

This study identifies a theoretical mechanism through which communication with friends about sex influences sexual initiation in a sample of adolescents. The integrative model was used to assess the effect of attitudes, normative pressure, and self-efficacy on intentions to have sex in a sample of virgin adolescents. Results show that the constructs of the theory partially mediated the effect of communication with friends on subsequent sexual initiation. The effect of communication with friends on sexual initiation was not different for male and female adolescents. Overall, the results suggest how conversations with friends about sex influence adolescents’ intentions to initiate sexual intercourse, which in turn influence subsequent sexual initiation.
Four Challenges to Accountability in Contemporary Public Administration: Lessons From the United States and China
Authors: Chan Hon S. , Rosenbloom David H.
Published: February 2010

Using the Romzek-Dubnick typology of accountability, the authors analyze challenges that reinvention and new public management reforms in the United States and China present with regard to maintaining legal controls, protecting non-mission-based administrative objectives, pursuing public values, and sustaining hierarchical authority. The authors show that reforms—especially outsourcing and results orientation—have very different consequences in the dissimilar U.S. and Chinese legal and political settings. The analysis contributes to those public administrative theories holding that when it comes to reform, law and politics matter, and that even when administrative problems are similar across nations, their solutions may differ.
MRK-409 (MK-0343), a GABAAreceptor subtype-selective partial agonist, is a non-sedating anxiolytic in preclinical species but causes sedation in humans
Authors: Atack JR , Wafford KA , Street LJ , Dawson GR , Tye S , Van Laere K , Bormans G , Sanabria-Bohórquez SM , De Lepeleire I , de Hoon JN , Van Hecken A , Burns HD , McKernan RM , Murphy MG , Hargreaves RJ
Published: February 2010

MRK-409 binds to α1-, α2-, α3- and α5-containing human recombinant GABAAreceptors with comparable high affinity (0.21–0.40 nM). However, MRK-409 has greater agonist efficacy at the α3 compared with α1 subtypes (respective efficacies relative to the full agonist chlordiazepoxide of 0.45 and 0.18). This compound readily penetrates the brain in rats and occupies the benzodiazepine site of GABAAreceptors, measured using an in vivo [3H]flumazenil binding assay, with an Occ50of 2.2 mg/kg p.o. and a corresponding plasma EC50of 115 ng/mL. Behaviourally, the α3-preferring agonist efficacy profile of MRK-409 produced anxiolytic-like activity in rodent and primate unconditioned and conditioned models of anxiety with minimum effective doses corresponding to occupancies, depending on the particular model, ranging from ∼35% to 65% yet there were minimal overt signs of sedation at occupancies greater than 90%. In humans, however, safety and tolerability studies showed that there was pronounced sedation at a dose of 2 mg, resulting in a maximal tolerated dose of 1 mg. This 2 mg dose corresponded to a Cmaxplasma concentration of 28 ng/mL, which, based on the rodent plasma EC50for occupancy of 115 ng/mL, suggested that sedation in humans occurs at low levels of occupancy. This was confirmed in human positron emission tomography studies, in which [11C]flumazenil uptake following a single dose of 1 mg MRK-409 was comparable to that of placebo, indicating that occupancy of GABAAreceptor benzodiazepine binding sites by MRK-409 was below the limits of detection (i.e. <10%). Taken together, these data show that MRK-409 causes sedation in humans at a dose (2 mg) corresponding to levels of occupancy considerably less than those predicted from rodent models to be required for anxiolytic efficacy (∼35–65%). Thus, the preclinical non-sedating anxiolytic profile of MRK-409 did not translate into humans and further development of this compound was halted.
Pattern of acute induction ofHomer1agene is preserved after chronic treatment with first- and second-generation antipsychotics: effect of short-term drug discontinuation and comparison with Homer1a-interacting genes
Authors: Iasevoli Felice , Ambesi-Impiombato Alberto , Fiore Germano , Panariello Fabio , Muscettola Giovanni , de Bartolomeis Andrea
Published: February 2010

Homer1a is a glutamate-related gene whose expression is induced by antipsychotics acutely (i.e. 90 min after treatment). Acute Homer1a expression is preserved after prolonged antipsychotic treatments, while the effects of short-term discontinuation after chronic antipsychotic treatment have not yet been assessed. Here, we studied early and long-term effects on gene expression by antipsychotics for Homer1a and other components of glutamatergic synapses.

In the first paradigm, we evaluated Homer1a acute expression by single administration of antipsychotics (haloperidol 0.8 mg/kg, ziprasidone 10 and 4 mg/kg, clozapine 15 mg/kg). Haloperidol and ziprasidone induced Homer1a in the striatum. Induction by ziprasidone was dose-dependent. These results suggest that acute Homer1a expression correlates with dopaminergic affinity and motor side effects of antipsychotics. In the second paradigm, we studied antipsychotic-mediated long-term changes in Homer1a and glutamate-related genes. Rats were treated (21 days) with haloperidol 0.8 mg/kg, ziprasidone 4 mg/kg, or vehicle, and then sacrificed at 90 min (early time-point) or 24 h (delayed time-point) after last injection. Gene expression at these two time-points was compared. Homer1a preserved its pattern of expression at the early but not at the delayed time-point. Significant changes were also observed for PSD-95. The results suggest that Homer1a preserves its expression profile after chronic antipsychotics.
A pharmacological tool to assess vasopressinergic co-activation of the hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal axis more integrally in healthy volunteers
Authors: Jacobs GE , van Gerven JMA , de Kam ML , Elassaiss-Schaap J , Ruigt G , van Pelt J , Peeters BWMM , Peeters PAM , Hulskotte EGJ
Published: February 2010

Pharmacological function tests consisting of 100 µg hCRH (corticorelin) and 10 µg dDAVP (desmopressin) mimic endogenous hypothalamus–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis activation. However, physiological CRH concentrations preclude informative vasopressinergic co-activation (using dDAVP) and independent quantification of both corticotrophinergic (using hCRH) and vasopressinergic (using dDAVP) activation is limited due to administration on separate occasions. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, partial five-way crossover study in healthy males and females (six : six) examined whether (1) concomitant administration of dDAVP and hCRH provides more informative vasopressinergic co-activation than dDAVP alone; and (2) whether the administration of dDAVP followed two hours later by hCRH can quantify both vasopressinergic and corticotrophinergic activation on a single test day. Combining 10 µg dDAVP with 10 µg and 30 µg hCRH caused dose-related ACTH and cortisol release which was larger than with 10 µg dDAVP alone and respectively comparable to and greater than that induced by 100 µg hCRH. Using 10 µg dDAVP alone demonstrated limited ACTH release while the effects of 100 µg hCRH two hours later were three times as large. ACTH and cortisol released by 10 µg dDAVP returned to baseline prior to 100 µg hCRH administration and dDAVP did not influence the response to subsequent hCRH administration. Dose-related vasopressinergic co-activation of the HPA axis was induced by combining 10 µg dDAVP with 10 µg and 30 µg hCRH. Combining 10 µg dDAVP with 10 µg hCRH induced the potentially most informative vasopressinergic co-activation since it is not restricted by ceiling or flooring effects. The hCRH response was not affected by prior dDAVP, allowing for a practical function test examining both HPA activation routes on the same day.
Evaluation of the subjective and reinforcing effects of diphenhydramine, levetiracetam, and valproic acid
Authors: Feltner Douglas E , Haig George
Published: February 2010

Few unscheduled sedating medications have been evaluated for their subjective and reinforcing effects in humans. To increase the information available about unscheduled sedating medications and to evaluate the ability of human laboratory measures to discriminate between scheduled and unscheduled sedating drugs, 24 subjects with a history of experience with several classes of drugs of abuse, including sedatives and/or alcohol, and who reported liking a test dose of pentobarbital 300 mg, were randomized to single doses of diphenhydramine 400 mg, levetiracetam 4000 mg, valproic acid 1500 mg, diazepam 30 mg or placebo in a double-blind, 5-way crossover study. On the Addiction Research Center Inventory–Morphine-Benzedrine Group and the Next Day Questionnaire measures ‘Take Again’ and ‘Willing to Pay’, diazepam produced a significantly greater effect than placebo; all three other active drugs did not. Levetiracetam significantly increased the crossover point on the Multiple Choice Procedure, whereas diazepam did not. For the doses studied, the rank order of statistically significant findings suggestive of abuse potential was diazepam (9/10 measures significant) > levetiracetam (6/10) > diphenhydramine (5/10) > valproic acid (2/10).
Biological pretreatment enhances biogas production in the anaerobic digestion of pulp and paper sludge
Authors: Lin Yunqin  , Wang Dehan  , Wang Lishang
Published: February 2010

High efficient resource recovery from pulp and paper sludge (PPS) has been the focus of attention. The objective of this research was to develop a bio-pretreatment process prior to anaerobic digestion of PPS to improve the methane productivity. Active and inactive mushroom compost extracts (MCE) were used for pretreating PPS, followed by anaerobic digestion with monosodium glutamate waste liquor (MGWL). Laboratory-scale experiments were carried out in completely mixed bioreactors, 1-L capacity with 700 ml useful capacity. Optimal amount of active MCE for organics’ solubilization in the step of pretreatment was 250 A.U./gVS sludge. Under this condition, the PPS floc structure was well disrupted, resulting in void rate and fibre size diminishment after pretreatment. In addition, SCOD and VS removal were found to be 56% and 43.6%, respectively, after anaerobic digestion, being the peak value of VFA concentration determined as 1198 mg acetic acid L-1. The anaerobic digestion efficiency of PPS with and without pretreatment was evaluated. The highest methane yield under optimal pretreatment conditions was 0.23 m3 CH 4/kgVSadd, being 134.2% of the control. The results indicated that MCE bio-pretreatment could be a cost-effective and environmentally sound method for producing methane from PPS.
The Five Gaps Facing Small and Microbusiness Owners: Evidence From New York City
Authors: Servon Lisa J. , Fairlie Robert W. , Rastello Blaise , Seely Amber
Published: February 2010

Small businesses play a critical role in economic development. Over the past 20 years, policies and programs have sought to increase the potential success of these businesses. Yet little is known about the extent to which these policies and programs respond to the specific needs of business owners. Using a mixed-methods approach, the authors investigate the barriers to success that small business owners face, the effectiveness of current policies and programs aimed at serving small businesses, and ways to improve the current system. Focusing on disadvantaged entrepreneurs in New York City, the authors find five primary gaps within the current policy system: a transitional gap, an information gap, and an institutional capacity and service delivery gap. The authors argue that the capital and training needs of small business owners are deeper and more complex than what the current policy system addresses and offer recommendations for improvement.
Knowing the Odds
Authors: Bowers Alex J. , Metzger Scott Alan , Militello Matthew
Published: February 2010

This study investigates parameters affecting the likelihood of passing school facility construction bonds by local district election. Using statewide data from Michigan, this study analyzes school bond data for urban ( n = 30), suburban ( n = 164), small town ( n = 70), and rural ( n = 241) school districts that held capital improvement bond elections from 2000 to 2005. This analysis found four parameters that were significant in predicting either passage or failure of school bonds: bond amount, number of students enrolled, the number of times the bond was attempted, and district urbanicity. Examining district bond passage rates by urbanicity showed that rural districts have worse chances of passing bond elections than urban and suburban districts and that small-town districts have the worst chances of all.
Nonpharmacological Interventions for the Treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Leverone Donna , Epstein Benjamin J.
Published: February 2010

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, autoimmune disease that affects approximately 1.3 million Americans. It is characterized by inflammation of the joints, most often affecting the hands, hips, and knees. Presently, there is no cure, and the commonly used pharmacological therapies are not always effective and have significant side effects, especially when used long term. Consequently, there is a need for alternative treatments for RA. Mind-body medicine (MBM), which uses the mind to affect disease processes, is a promising area for many pathological conditions, especially autoimmune disorders like RA. In this review, we highlight the basis for psychological-based interventions for the treatment of RA. The notion that the mind has an impact on immune function and several processes that underpin the pathophysiology of RA is well established. Correspondingly, there are several lines of evidence to indicate that psychological-based interventions can favorably affect these processes. Clinical trials of MBM in RA have most commonly assessed outcomes such as pain, functional disability, psychological status, coping abilities, self-efficacy, and joint involvement. Across studies, statistically significant improvements were found for all outcomes, though the clinical significance of these changes is open to interpretation. Given that the RA patients included in these studies had generally maximized the use of pharmacological options, any additional therapeutic benefit may be considered significant. Patients with a history of depression appear to exhibit heightened responsiveness to MBM, and this is a group that should be preferentially targeted. Based on the current evidence, MBM can be recommended as an adjunct to conventional therapy to enhance treatment response and possibly reduce the use of more risky pharmacological therapies.
Care Management Service and Falls Prevention: A Case-Control Study in a Chinese Population
Authors: Leung Angela Y. M. , Lou Vivian W. Q. , Kin Sun Chan  , Yung Alison , Chi Iris
Published: February 2010

Objective: This study evaluates the effect of a care management service (CMS) on falls in older adults. Method: This is a retrospective case-control study with 78 CMS recipients as the case group who received CMS and another 312 community-dwelling frail elders as the control group.The groups were matched by age, gender, activity of daily living, cognitive impairment, and unsteady gait. Thus they were comparable in characteristics and frailty. Results: Among the 390 participants, 89 older adults (23.0%) had falls in the 90 days prior to the survey. After controlling for the identified risk factors for falls, the odds ratio of CMS was 0.27 (95% confidence interval = 0.110-0.663, p < .01). Discussion: These findings indicate that CMS recipients have a lower chance for falls compared to their counterparts. The two features of CMS (comprehensive assessment and multidisciplinary actions to reduce fall risks) are discussed.
Mapping Performance as General Music Informance
Authors: Kerchner Jody L.
Published: February 2010

Music ensemble teachers use informances as means of illuminating less visible student rehearsal experiences that serve as cornerstones for the ever-visible musical performances. How might teachers apply this tool of advocacy and education to the general music classroom? In this article, the author provides a description of action research that she conducted in middle school general music classes in rural Ohio. Specifically, the author suggests that informances need not be limited to music ensemble concert settings but can be applicable to general music classes in elucidating music listening skill development experiences vis-à-vis music listening map creation and performance.
Both Performance and Informance: Not “Either—Or” in Elementary General Music
Authors: Pautz Mary
Published: February 2010

The author of this article encourages teachers to present not only general music performances but also informances. Multiple examples and potential themes are given, as are the rationale and suggestions for planning such a program.
Effects of Atorvastatin 20 mg, Rosuvastatin 10 mg, and Atorvastatin/Ezetimibe 5 mg/5 mg on Lipoproteins and Glucose Metabolism
Authors: Her Ae-Young , Kim Jong-Youn , Kang Seok-Min , Choi Donghoon , Jang Yangsoo , Chung Namsik , Manabe Ichiro , Lee Sang-Hak
Published: February 2010

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of 3 different statin regimens that have equivalent low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) lowering efficacy on the apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio and glucose metabolism. After a 4-week dietary lead-in, 90 hypercholeserolemic patients were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 treatment groups for 8 weeks: atorvastatin 20 mg, rosuvastatin 10 mg, or atorvastatin/ezetimibe 5 mg/5 mg. At drug treatment week 8, we compared the percentage changes in lipid parameters, apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio, hemoglobin A1c, and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) from baseline. Seventy-six patients completed the study and the percentage changes in LDL-C were comparable among the groups. However, the percentage reduction in the apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio was significantly greater in the rosuvastatin group (—47% ± 14%, P = .04) and the combination group (—46% ± 8%, P = .05) than in the atorvastatin group (—39% ± 11%). The percentage increase in hemoglobin A1c was small but significantly greater in the atorvastatin group compared to the combination group (3.0% ± 5.2% and —0.4% ± 4.0%, P = .03). The effect of rosuvastatin on hemoglobin A1c was not different from those of the other 2 regimens. The effects of 3 statin regimens were similar on HOMA-IR. In conclusion, 3 statin regimens have differential effect on apolipoprotein B/A1 and glycemic control after comparable LDL-C reduction.
Application of Paired-Comparison Methods to Hearing Aids
Authors: Amlani Amyn M. , Schafer Erin C.
Published: February 2010

The method of paired comparisons was introduced into the hearing aid literature nearly 50 years ago. Over time, studies have found paired comparisons to be sensitive, valid, and reliable in determining either the perceptual difference or relative ranking among hearing aids and electroacoustic characteristics. With the increasing number of adjustable electroacoustic parameters in today’s digital hearing aids—and the lack of procedural guidelines necessary to fit many of them—the method of paired comparisons provides the clinician with the ability to compare different devices, electroacoustic characteristics, memory settings, or combinations of these variables under the listener’s everyday listening conditions. Furthermore, this procedure provides the clinician with the ability to individualize the prescriptive approach—which is predicated mainly on hearing threshold data and listening in quiet—so that a combination of parameters can be set to optimize the user’s listening needs in a given environment. In this article, the authors present an overview of the theoretical principle supporting this procedure, the various paired-comparison strategies and associated approaches, the advantages of this method, and recommended procedures for implementing the method of paired comparisons in the fitting of today’s sophisticated hearing aids.
Ankle—brachial index predicts level of, but not change in, cognitive function: The Edinburgh Artery Study at the 15-year follow-up
Authors: Johnson Wendy , Price Jacqueline F , Rafnsson Snorri B , Deary Ian J , Fowkes F Gerald R
Published: February 2010

The ankle—brachial index (ABI), a marker of generalized atherosclerosis, is related to cognitive impairment in older adults. We investigated whether ABI is associated specifically with age-related cognitive decline. We measured ABI at recruitment and 5 and 12 years later in a sample of individuals aged 55—74 years. Cognition was measured in 717 of these participants 10 years after recruitment and 5 years later. It was found that ABI was associated with the level of cognitive function, even after adjustment for estimated premorbid function and concurrently measured anxiety and depression (standardized coefficient of 0.07), but this was attenuated by anxiety and depression. ABI was not associated with change in cognitive function. In conclusion, over long time periods, low ABI may be associated with reduced cognitive function in older adults, at least partly because the associated poor health creates anxiety and depression.
Students with brain tumors: their post-treatment perceptions of teachers, peers, and academics and retrospective views on school during treatment
Authors: Long Lori A. , Wodrich David L. , Levy Roy , Etzl Michael M. , Gieseking Annie T.
Published: February 2010

The purpose of this pilot study was: (1) to determine how students surviving brain tumors (BTs) perceive their teachers’ responses to them, their own academic performance, and their interactions with peers at school using a new measure; and (2) to describe students’ retrospective perceptions of schooling while undergoing treatment. Using a sample of 22 students treated for a BT (ages 9—18) and 22 comparison (ages 8—19), no significant BT-control group differences regarding perceptions of teacher response, academic performance, and interactions with peers at school were found. Generally, students with BTs reported positive school experiences during treatment including favorable perceptions of their teachers’ effectiveness, enjoyment of schoolwork, and the quality of their schooling. Additionally, they felt that completing schoolwork during treatment was important. The results of this study may provide insight into the perceived psychosocial adjustment and academic performance of students with BTs during and after treatment.
Discussing Dementia-Related Behaviors During Medical Visits for People With Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hunsaker Amanda E. , Schmidt Karen , Lingler Jennifer H.
Published: February 2010

Research suggests that caregivers appreciate support from primary care physicians (PCPs) regarding dementia care; however, there remains a need for studies examining the role that PCPs play in behavior management. The purpose of this study was to quantitatively characterize the discussion on dementia-related behaviors (DRBs) during PCP visits and compare findings to an independently administered assessment of DRBs exhibited within a period of 4 weeks prior to the PCP visit. Twenty-five PCP visits of persons with dementia, in which caregivers coattended the visit, were audio-recorded and analyzed for occurrence of DRB discussion. Disruptive behaviors were reported by 80% of caregivers via independent assessment, yet discussed in 23% of medical visits. Dementia-related behavior discussion occurred in visits where caregivers independently reported significantly higher behavior frequency and behavior-related burden. Implications of findings for ways PCPs can assist the caregiver in behavior management are discussed.
Postdischarge Feedings for the Preterm Infant
Authors: Loomis Theresa , Merrit Scott , Khalak Rubia
Published: February 2010

The objective of this study was to determine if primary practitioners would continue enriched formula in preterm infants discharged from the neonatal intensive care unit. A 10-question survey was mailed to pediatricians and medicine/pediatrics and family practitioners. Questions involved formula choice, length of administration, and adequacy of growth. Of 436 surveys, 87 were returned (20% response rate). For scenario 1, a former 30-week preterm infant, the percentage of primary care physicians who correctly continued enriched discharge formula was 75%. For scenario 2, a 29-week preterm infant with broncho-pulmonary dysplasia, the percentage of primary care physicians who continued preterm discharge formula was 84%. For scenario 3, a 33.5-week small for gestational age preterm infant, the percentage of primary care physicians who continued preterm discharge formula was 53%. Despite American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines, 15% to 48% of primary care physicians would change preterm infants from the correct enriched discharge formula.
Suppression of adaptive immune responses during primary SIV infection of sabaeus African green monkeys delays partial containment of viremia but does not induce disease
Authors: Zahn Roland C. , Rett Melisa D. , Li Ming , Tang Haili , Korioth-Schmitz Birgit , Balachandran Harikrishnan , White Robert , Pryputniewicz Sarah , Letvin Norman L. , Kaur Amitinder , Montefiori David C. , Carville Angela , Hirsch Vanessa M. , Allan Jonathan S. , Schmitz Jörn E.
Published: February 2010

One of the most puzzling observations in HIV research is the lack of pathogenicity in most nonhuman primate species that are natural hosts of simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection. Despite this, natural hosts experience a level of viremia similar to humans infected with HIV or macaques infected with SIV. To determine the role of adaptive immune responses in viral containment and lack of disease, we delayed the generation of cellular and humoral immune responses by administering anti-CD8– and anti-CD20 lymphocyte–depleting antibodies to sabaeus African green monkeys (Chlorocebus sabaeus) before challenge with SIVsab9315BR. In vivo lymphocyte depletion during primary infection resulted in a brief elevation of viremia but not in disease. Based on the magnitude and timing of SIV-specific CD8+ T-cell responses in the lymphocyte-depleted animals, CD8+ T-cell responses appear to contribute to viral containment in natural hosts. We found no evidence for a contribution of humoral immune responses in viral containment. These studies indicate that natural hosts have developed mechanisms in addition to classic adaptive immune responses to cope with this lentiviral infection. Thus, adaptive immune responses in natural hosts appear to be less critical for viral containment than in HIV infection.
A means to an end: ubiquitination of Mpl
Authors: Tong Wei
Published: February 2010

In this issue of Blood, Saur and colleagues report that ubiquitin-mediated degradation of the Mpl receptor constrains Tpo-mediated cell proliferation, highlighting the importance of the E3 ubiquitin ligase c-Cbl in rapid down-regulation of Tpo/Mpl signaling.
Fungal Secretome Database: Integrated platform for annotation of fungal secretomes
Authors: Choi Jaeyoung , Park Jongsun , Kim Donghan , Jung Kyongyong , Kang Seogchan , Lee Yong-Hwan
Published: February 2010

Background

Fungi secrete various proteins that have diverse functions. Prediction of secretory proteins using only one program is unsatisfactory. To enhance prediction accuracy, we constructed Fungal Secretome Database (FSD).

Description

A three-layer hierarchical identification rule based on nine prediction programs was used to identify putative secretory proteins in 158 fungal/oomycete genomes (208,883 proteins, 15.21% of the total proteome). The presence of putative effectors containing known host targeting signals such as RXLX [EDQ] and RXLR was investigated, presenting the degree of bias along with the species. The FSD's user-friendly interface provides summaries of prediction results and diverse web-based analysis functions through Favorite, a personalized repository.

Conclusions

The FSD can serve as an integrated platform supporting researches on secretory proteins in the fungal kingdom. All data and functions described in this study can be accessed on the FSD web site at http://fsd.snu.ac.kr/.
Mapping main, epistatic and sex-specific QTL for body composition in a chicken population divergently selected for low or high growth rate
Authors: Ankra-Badu Georgina A , Shriner Daniel , Le Bihan-Duval Elisabeth , Mignon-Grasteau Sandrine , Pitel Frédérique , Beaumont Catherine , Duclos Michel J , Simon Jean , Porter Tom E , Vignal Alain , Cogburn Larry A , Allison David B , Yi Nengjun , Aggrey Samuel E
Published: February 2010

Background

Delineating the genetic basis of body composition is important to agriculture and medicine. In addition, the incorporation of gene-gene interactions in the statistical model provides further insight into the genetic factors that underlie body composition traits. We used Bayesian model selection to comprehensively map main, epistatic and sex-specific QTL in an F2 reciprocal intercross between two chicken lines divergently selected for high or low growth rate.

Results

We identified 17 QTL with main effects across 13 chromosomes and several sex-specific and sex-antagonistic QTL for breast meat yield, thigh + drumstick yield and abdominal fatness. Different sets of QTL were found for both breast muscles [Pectoralis (P) major and P. minor], which suggests that they could be controlled by different regulatory mechanisms. Significant interactions of QTL by sex allowed detection of sex-specific and sex-antagonistic QTL for body composition and abdominal fat. We found several female-specific P. major QTL and sex-antagonistic P. minor and abdominal fatness QTL. Also, several QTL on different chromosomes interact with each other to affect body composition and abdominal fatness.

Conclusions

The detection of main effects, epistasis and sex-dimorphic QTL suggest complex genetic regulation of somatic growth. An understanding of such regulatory mechanisms is key to mapping specific genes that underlie QTL controlling somatic growth in an avian model.
Leptin receptor (LEPR) SNP polymorphisms in HELLP syndrome patients determined by quantitative real-time PCR and melting curve analysis
Authors: Várkonyi Tibor , Lázár Levente , Molvarec Attila , Than Nándor Gábor , Rigó János , Nagy Bálint
Published: February 2010

Background

Several studies have shown overexpression of leptin in microarray experiments in pre-eclampsia (PE) and in hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets (HELLP) syndrome. We decided to study four leptin receptor (LEPR) SNP polymorphisms in HELLP syndrome patients by using quantitative real-time PCR and melting curve analysis.

Methods

DNA was isolated from blood samples from 83 normotensive pregnant women and 75 HELLP syndrome patients. Four SNPs, LEPR c.326A>G (K109), LEPR c.668A>G (Q223R), LEPR c.1968G>C (K656N) and LEPR c.3024A>G (S1008) were determined by quantitative real-time PCR and melting curve analysis. Investigators were blinded to clinical outcomes.

Results

LEPR c.326A>G, LEPR c.668A>G, LEPR c.1968G>C and LEPR c.3024A>G allele, genotype and haplotype polymorphisms were not different in HELLP syndrome patients and normotensive healthy pregnants. There were strong linkage disequilibrium (LD) between loci c.326A>G and c.6687A>G (D' = 0.974), and c.668A>G and c.1968G>C (D' = 0.934), and c.326A>G and c.1968G>C (D' = 0.885), and c.1968G>C and c.3024A>G (D' = 1.0). However, linkages of c.3024A>G with c.668A>G (D' = 0.111) and c.326A>G (D' = 0.398) were weak. The Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was observed for all polymorphisms. However the LEPR c.326A>G AG genotype was twice more frequent and the (AG AG GG AG) haplotype was three times more frequent in HELLP syndrome patients. The introduced quantitative real-time PCR combined with melting curve analysis is a fast and reliable method for the determination of LEPR SNPs.

Conclusion

Although certain LEPR haplotypes are more frequent in HELLP syndrome, we conclude that there is no compelling evidence that the four studied LEPR SNP polymorphisms associated with the development of HELLP syndrome.
Sequential chemotherapy and intensity-modulated radiation therapy in the management of locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Experience of 370 consecutive cases
Authors: Lin Shaojun , Lu Jiade Jay , Han Lu , Chen Qisong , Pan Jianji
Published: February 2010

Introduction

To investigate the outcome of locoregionally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) treated with intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) after induction chemotherapy, with or without concomitant chemotherapy.

Methods

Between August 2003 and March 2007, 370 patients with locoregionally advanced NPC were treated with IMRT. Presenting stages were stage IIB in 62, stage III in 197, and stage IVA/B in 111 patients. All patients except for 36 patients with cervical lymphadenopathy of 4 cm or less in diameter received 2 cycles of cisplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Forty-eight patients received cisplatin-based concurrent chemotherapy as well.

Results

With a median follow-up time of 31 months (range 5 to 61 months), the 3-year local control, regional control, metastasis-free survival (MFS), disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 95%, 97%, 86%, 81% and 89%, respectively. Multivariate analyses revealed that both age (≤ 60 vs. >60) and N-classification are significant prognosticators for OS (P = 0.001, hazard ratio [HR] 2.395, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.432-4.003; P = 0.012, hazard ratio [HR] 2.614, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.235-5.533); And N-classification is the only significant predicative factor for MFS (P = 0.002, [HR] 1.99, 95% CI 1.279-3.098). T-classification and concurrent chemotherapy were not significant prognostic factors for local/regional control, MFS, DFS, or OS. Subgroup analysis revealed that concurrent chemotherapy provided no significant benefit to IMRT in locoregionally advanced NPC, but was responsible for higher rates of grade 3 or 4 acute toxicities (50% vs. 29.8%, P < 0.005). No grade 3 or 4 late toxicity including xerostomia was observed. However, two patients treated with IMRT and neoadjuvant but without concurrent and adjuvant chemotherapy died of treatment related complications.

Conclusion

IMRT following neoadjuvant chemotherapy produced a superb outcome in terms of local control, regional control, MFS, DFS, and OS rates in patients with stage IIB to IVB NPC. Effective treatment strategy is urgently needed for distant control in patients diagnosed with locoregionally advanced NPC.
Antecedents of teenage pregnancy from a 14-year follow-up study using data linkage
Authors: Gaudie Jennifer , Mitrou Francis , Lawrence David , Stanley Fiona J , Silburn Sven R , Zubrick Stephen R
Published: February 2010

Background

Many western nations continue to have high rates of teenage pregnancies and births, which can result in adverse outcomes for both mother and child. This study identified possible antecedents of teenage pregnancy using linked data from administrative sources to create a 14-year follow-up from a cross-sectional survey.

Methods

Data were drawn from two sources - the 1993 Western Australian Child Health Survey (WACHS), a population-based representative sample of 2,736 children aged 4 to 16 years (1,374 girls); and administrative data relating to all their subsequent births and hospital admissions. We used weighted population estimates to examine differences between rates for teenage pregnancy, motherhood and abortion. We used Cox proportional hazards regression to model risk for teenage pregnancy.

Results

There were 155 girls aged less than 20 years at the time of their first recorded pregnancy. Teenage pregnancy was significantly associated with: family type; highest school year completed by primary carer; combined carer income; whether the primary carer was a smoker; and whether the girl herself displayed aggressive and delinquent behaviours. An age-interaction analysis on the association with aggressive and delinquent behaviours found that while girls with aggressive and delinquent behaviours who were older at the time of the survey were at highest risk of teenage pregnancy, there was elevated risk for future teenage pregnancy across all ages.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that interventions to reduce teenage pregnancy rates could be introduced during primary school years, including those that are focused on the prevention and management of aggressive and delinquent behaviour.
Discrepancy between prevalence and perceived effectiveness of treatment methods in myofascial pain syndrome: Results of a cross-sectional, nationwide survey
Authors: Fleckenstein Johannes , Zaps Daniela , Rüger Linda J , Lehmeyer Lukas , Freiberg Florentina , Lang Philip M , Irnich Dominik
Published: February 2010

Background

Myofascial pain is a common dysfunction with a lifetime prevalence affecting up to 85% of the general population. Current guidelines for the management of myofascial pain are not available. In this study we investigated how physicians on the basis of prescription behaviour evaluate the effectiveness of treatment options in their management of myofascial pain.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional, nationwide survey with a standardized questionnaire among 332 physicians (79.8% male, 25.6% female, 47.5 ± 9.6 years) experienced in treating patients with myofascial pain. Recruitment of physicians took place at three German meetings of pain therapists, rheumatologists and orthopaedists, respectively. Physicians estimated the prevalence of myofascial pain amongst patients in their practices, stated what treatments they used routinely and then rated the perceived treatment effectiveness on a six-point scale (with 1 being excellent). Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation.

Results

The estimated overall prevalence of active myofascial trigger points is 46.1 ± 27.4%. Frequently prescribed treatments are analgesics, mainly metamizol/paracetamol (91.6%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs/coxibs (87.0%) or weak opioids (81.8%), and physical therapies, mainly manual therapy (81.1%), TENS (72.9%) or acupuncture (60.2%). Overall effectiveness ratings for analgesics (2.9 ± 0.7) and physical therapies were moderate (2.5 ± 0.8). Effectiveness ratings of the various treatment options between specialities were widely variant. 54.3% of all physicians characterized the available treatment options as insufficient.

Conclusions

Myofascial pain was estimated a prevalent condition. Despite a variety of commonly prescribed treatments, the moderate effectiveness ratings and the frequent characterizations of the available treatments as insufficient suggest an urgent need for clinical research to establish evidence-based guidelines for the treatment of myofascial pain syndrome.
The influence of the Gilgel-Gibe hydroelectric dam in Ethiopia on caregivers' knowledge, perceptions and health-seeking behaviour towards childhood malaria
Authors: Yewhalaw Delenasaw , Kassahun Wondwossen , Woldemichael Kifle , Tushune Kora , Sudaker Morankar , Kaba Daniel , Duchateau Luc , Van Bortel Wim , Speybroeck Niko
Published: February 2010

Background

Malaria remains the most important public health problem in tropical and subtropical areas. Mothers' or caregivers' ability to recognize childhood malaria-related morbidity is crucial as knowledge, attitudes and health seeking behavior of caregivers towards childhood malaria could influence response to signs of the disease.

Methods

A total of 1,003 caregivers in 'at-risk' villages in close proximity to the Gilgel-Gibe hydroelectric dam in south-western Ethiopia, and 953 caregivers in 'control' villages further away from the dam were surveyed using structured questionnaires to assess their knowledge, perceptions and health seeking behaviour about childhood malaria.

Results

Malaria (busa) was ranked as the most serious health problem. Caregivers perceived childhood malaria as a preventable ('at-risk' 96%, 'control' 86%) and treatable ('at-risk' 98% and 'control' 96%) disease. Most caregivers correctly associated the typical clinical manifestations with malaria attacks. The use of insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) was mentioned as a personal protective measure, whereas the role of indoor residual spraying (IRS) in malaria prevention and control was under-recognized. Most of the caregivers would prefer to seek treatment in health-care services in the event of malaria and reported the use of recommended anti-malarials.

Conclusion

Health education to improve knowledge, perceptions and health-seeking behaviour related to malaria is equally important for caregivers in 'at risk' villages and caregivers in 'control' villages as minimal differences seen between both groups. Concluding, there may be a need of more than one generation after the introduction of the dam before differences can be noticed. Secondly, differences in prevalence between 'control' and 'at-risk' villages may not be sufficient to influence knowledge and behaviour.
Pancreatitis and atypical Kawasaki disease
Authors: Prokic Dragan , Ristic Goran , Paunovic Zoran , Pasic Srdjan
Published: February 2010

We report on pediatric patient with clinical and laboratory evidence of pancreatitis at onset of atypical Kawasaki disease (KD). In KD pancreatic inflammation was described previously, but clinical pancreatitis was rarely reported and its true incidence is unknown.

In febrile pediatric patients suspected to have KD, but not fulfilling classical diagnostic criteria, signs of pancreatic inflammation may help in making correct diagnosis. Further analysis of cases with atypical KD developing pancreatitis may reveal if signs of pancreatic inflammation can be used as supportive diagnostic finding.
Charcot foot reconstruction with combined internal and external fixation: case report
Authors: Capobianco Claire M , Ramanujam Crystal L , Zgonis Thomas
Published: February 2010

Charcot neuroarthropathy is a destructive and often-limb threatening process that can affect patients with peripheral neuropathy of any etiology. Early recognition and appropriate management is crucial to prevention of catastrophic outcomes. Delayed diagnosis and subsequent pedal collapse often preclude successful conservative management of these deformities and necessitate surgical intervention for limb salvage. We review the current literature on surgical reconstruction of Charcot neuroarthropathy and present a case report of foot reconstruction with combined internal and external fixation methods.
Methemoglobinemia presenting in a circumcised baby following application of prilocaine: a case report
Authors: Ozdogan Hatice , Osma Selcan , Aydin Gozde B , Dinc Avni , Ozgun Gulten
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Local anesthesia with prilocaine has become a routine part of ambulatory circumcision procedures. Methemoglobinemia is a rare but potentially lethal complication of local anesthetics.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 40-day-old Turkish boy who presented with cyanosis after receiving local anesthesia with prilocaine. His methemoglobin level revealed severe methemoglobinemia (methemoglobin = 44%). His cyanosis resolved after intravenous administration of methylene blue.

Conclusion

Although the association between prilocaine use and methemoglobinemia has generally restricted the use of prilocaine in babies, it is still widely used in ambulatory procedures, especially during circumcision in the neonatal period. Prilocaine should not be used in babies who are less than 3 months old because of the risk of methemoglobinemia; other local anesthetics may be used for this age group. Furthermore, general anesthesia by mask ventilation may be favored for babies less than 3 months of age instead of local anesthetics.
Cerebral net exchange of large neutral amino acids after lipopolysaccharide infusion in healthy humans
Authors: Berg Ronan MG , Taudorf Sarah , Bailey Damian M , Lundby Carsten , Larsen Fin Stolze , Pedersen Bente Klarlund , Møller Kirsten
Published: February 2010

Introduction

Alterations in circulating large neutral amino acids (LNAAs), leading to a decrease in the plasma ratio between branched-chain and aromatic amino acids (BCAA/AAA ratio), may be involved in sepsis-associated encephalopathy. We hypothesised that a decrease in the BCAA/AAA ratio occurs along with a net cerebral influx of the neurotoxic AAA phenylalanine in a human experimental model of systemic inflammation.

Methods

The BCAA/AAA ratio, the cerebral delivery, and net exchange of LNAAs and ammonia were measured before and 1 hour after a 4-hour intravenous infusion of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in 12 healthy young men.

Results

LPS induced systemic inflammation, reduced the BCAA/AAA ratio, increased the cerebral delivery and unidirectional influx of phenylalanine, and abolished the net cerebral influx of the BCAAs leucine and isoleucine. Furthermore, a net cerebral efflux of glutamine, which was independent of the cerebral net exchange of ammonia, was present after LPS infusion.

Conclusions

Systemic inflammation may affect brain function by reducing the BCAA/AAA ratio, thereby changing the cerebral net exchange of LNAAs.
4D seismic monitoring of CO2 sequestration
Authors: Lumley David
Published: February 2010

We are about to face a surge in the need for geophysical characterization and monitoring of subsurface reservoirs and aquifers for [Formula: see text] sequestration projects. Global energy demand is rising significantly, expected to double over the next 20–30 years, driven by world population increase and the rapid growth of emerging economies. At the current rate of development of alternate energy sources, it is possible that the world may have to rely even more heavily on carbon-based fuels than at present to meet the impending energy demand (Figure 1). With global oil production near its peak or perhaps already in decline, this will place an increased emphasis on coal and LNG (liquid natural gas) in the carbon-based energy mix, and on unconventional hydrocarbon resources like tight gas, coal-bed methane, and heavy-oil tar sands. All of these carbon-based energy sources, especially coal-fired power plants, LNG, and tar-sand operations, will create a growing supply of excess [Formula: see text]. Irrespective of whether man-made [Formula: see text] emissions are a significant cause of global climate change, or simply well-correlated with global temperature rise, there will be increasing pressure from world governments to reduce the amount of [Formula: see text] emissions to the atmosphere, via policy change (e.g., Kyoto, Copenhagen) or via financial measures (e.g., carbon tax, cap and trade). Capturing industrial [Formula: see text] at its various sources and injecting it into deep geologic formations for long-term storage (sequestration) appears to be one of the most promising methods to achieve significant reductions in atmospheric [Formula: see text] emissions.
The rock physics basis for 4D seismic monitoring of CO2 fate: Are we there yet?
Authors: Vanorio Tiziana , Mavko Gary , Vialle Stephanie , Spratt Kyle
Published: February 2010

Monitoring, verification, and accounting (MVA) of [Formula: see text] fate are three fundamental needs in geological sequestration. The primary objective of MVA protocols is to identify and quantify (1) the injected [Formula: see text] stream within the injection/storage horizon and (2) any leakage of sequestered gas from the injection horizon, providing public assurance. Thus, the success of MVA protocols based on seismic prospecting depends on having robust methodologies for detecting the amount of change in the elastic rock property, assessing the repeatability of measured changes, and interpreting and analyzing the detected changes to make quantitative predictions of the movement, presence, and permanence of [Formula: see text] storage, including leakage from the intended storage location.