bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The telecardiology revolution: improving the management of cardiac disease in primary care
Authors: Backman Warren , Bendel Daniel , Rakhit Roby 
Published: October 2010

Summary Telecardiology allows for the remote specialist interpretation of electrocardiographic recordings via telephone transmission. It has the potential to change the way cardiac care is being delivered in the primary care setting. This review discusses the current status of cardiac care in the community, and highlights how telecardiology can help support general practitioners in the diagnosis and management of acute and chronic cardiac disease, as well as provide the potential for screening opportunities in particular patients at risk. Also reviewed is the success of recent trials of a telecardiology service in the north west of England. Thanks to developments in technology and ever decreasing costs, telecardiology has the potential to save time, money and lives. Telecardiology, it would seem, is set to revolutionize cardiac care in the community, making savings and bridging the gap between primary and secondary care.
Effects of Ovariectomy and Estrogen Replacement Therapy on Visceral Adipose Tissue and Serum Adiponectin Levels in Rats
Authors: Babaei Parvin , Mehdizadeh Rahimeh , Ansar Malek Moein , Damirchi Arsalan 
Published: October 2010

Background. Excess visceral adipose tissue accumulation after menopause is closely associated with decreased insulin sensitivity and adiponectin levels. Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of ovariectomy and estrogen replacement on visceral fat and serum adiponectin levels in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Method. Forty 11-week-old female Wistar rats were divided into the four following groups ( n = 10 rats per group): sham-operated control (SHAM); sedentary OVX (OVX-SED); OVX with estrogen replacement (OVX-ER); and OVX with sesame oil treatment (OVX-C). Rats in OVX-ER and OVX-C groups received 17β-estradiol valerate (30 μg/kg, subcutaneously) and sesame oil as vehicle, five days a week, respectively. All animals were sacrificed after eight weeks of intervention. Results Ovariectomy after eight weeks increased body weight and visceral fat ( P < 0.05) in OVX-SED and OVX-C groups compared with SHAM rats with no change in plasma adiponectin levels. Estrogen replacement in OVX animals decreased body weight (13.4%, P < 0.05) and visceral fat (10.4%). Although they were not statistically significant, adiponectin, insulin sensitivity and lipid profile of OVX rats were ameliorated with estrogen treatment. Conclusion. We conclude that ovarian hormone withdrawal leads to higher body weight and visceral adipose tissue in rats, but surprisingly does not change adiponectin levels. Although a substantial decrease in body weight was achieved by estrogen replacement therapy in OVX animals, the beneficial metabolic effects of weight loss seems to be only mechanical, having a tendency to improve insulin sensitivity without elevating adiponectin production.
Effect of Delayed Formalin Fixation on Estrogen and Progesterone Receptors in Breast Cancer
Authors: Qiu Jingxin , Kulkarni Swati , Chandrasekhar Rameela , Rees Mark , Hyde Kathryn , Wilding Gregory , Tan Dongfeng , Khoury Thaer 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
We previously reported that delayed formalin fixation (DFF) has a negative effect on immunohistochemical staining of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2. The primary aim of the study was to determine if DFF affected commonly used clones of the ER and PR differentially. The specific clones evaluated were ER clones 1D5, 6F11, and SP1 and PR clones 16, 1E2, and PgR636. Ten breast cancer cases were dissected and fixed at different times (0, 10, and 30 minutes; 1, 2, 4, and 8 hours; and overnight) and were then stained with anti-ER and anti-PR antibodies. The mean Q score for ER started to decline at 2 to 4 hours for clones 1D5 and 6F11 and at 1 hour for SP1. SP1 was superior to 1D5 at the 8-hour mark (P = .03). The Q score for PR started to decline at 1 hour for clones PgR636 and 16 and 4 to 8 hours for 1E2 (P = .03). Based on our findings, it appears that regardless of the antibody clones evaluated, DFF has a negative effect on hormone receptors.
Induction of CYP3A4 by Vinblastine: Role of the Nuclear Receptor NR1I2
Authors: Smith Nicola F , Mani Sridhar , Schuetz Erin G , Yasuda Kazuto , Sissung Tristan M , Bates Susan E , Figg William D , Sparreboom Alex 
Published: October 2010

Background:Several microtubule targeting agents are capable of inducing CYP3A4 via activation of the pregnane X receptor (PXR; NR1I2).Objective:To evaluate the CYP3A4 induction potential of vinblastine both clinically and in vitro and determine the involvement of the nuclear receptors NR1I2 and the constitutive androstane receptor (NR1I3).Methods:Midazolam pharmacokinetics were evaluated in 6 patients who were enrolled in a Phase 1/2 study of infusional vinblastine given in combination with the ABCB1 (P-glycoprotein) antagonist valspodar (PSC 833) and received the CYP3A4 phenotyping probo midazolam on more than 1 occasion. Genotyping was conducted in CYP3A4, CYP3A5, and ABCB1 to rule out potential pharmacogenetic influences. Clinical data were followed-up by Western blotting and reporter assays in HepG2 and NIH3T3 cells treated with vinbfastine over a dose range of 150-4800 ng/mL for 48 hours.Results:In 6 patients with cancer, vinblastine increased the median (95% CI) clearance of the CYP3A4 phenotyping probe midazolam from 21.7 L/h (12.6 to 28.1) to 32.3 L/h (17.3 to 53.9) (p = 0.0156, Wilcoxon signed-rank test). No obvious effect of polymorphisms in CYP3A4, CYP3A5, and ABCB1 on midazolam clearance was observed. In vitro, vinblastine induced CYP3A4 protein. Furthermore, cell-based reporter gene assays using transiently transfected HepG2 and NIH3T3 cells indicated that vinblastine (150-4800 ng/mL) weakly activated human and mouse full-length NR1I2, but had no influence on NR1I3.Conclusions:Collectively, these findings suggest that vinblastine is able to induce CYP3A4, at least in part, via an NR1I2-dependent mechanism, and thus has the potential to facilitate its own elimination and cause interactions with other CYP3A4 substrates.
Standardizing plasma protein measurements worldwide: a challenging enterprise
Authors: Merlini Giampaolo , Blirup-Jensen Søren , Johnson A. Myron , Sheldon Joanna , Zegers Ingrid 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
The need for harmonizing laboratory results is particularly intense in the field of quantitative protein assays in consideration of the clinical impact of specific protein measurements and their relevance in monitoring disease. We report the efforts made by the Committee on Plasma Proteins of the IFCC Scientific Division to achieve worldwide comparability in plasma protein results. We focus on the production of reference materials and the methods applied throughout their production process. Particularly, the recent characterization of ERM-DA470k/IFCC and ERM-DA472/IFCC has demonstrated that it is possible to reproduce the earlier established procedures and thereby maintain standardization. Plasma protein reference materials have had a substantial impact in improving the harmonization of patient protein results that should translate into better patient care.
Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1567–75.
Relationship of hepatic steatosis and alanine aminotransferase with coronary calcification
Authors: Jung Dong-Hyuk , Lee Yong-Jae , Ahn Hong-Yup , Shim Jae-Yong , Lee Hye-Ree 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Background: It has been observed that hepatic steatosis is related to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), an indicator of the severity of hepatic steatosis is also associated with CVD. This study focused on the relationship between hepatic steatosis and ALT with coronary calcification.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study to examine the association between hepatic steatosis and serum ALT with coronary calcification in 1218 subjects (772 men, 446 women; ages 30–75 years). We evaluated hepatic steatosis and ALT as categorical variables, and constructed four groups (reference group; only with hepatic steatosis; only with ALT >30 U/L; with both hepatic steatosis and ALT >30 U/L), which did not overlap. Multi-detected row computed tomography (MDCT) was used to measure coronary calcium score.

Results: The adjusted ORs (95% CIs) for coronary calcification in the four groups were 1.00 (reference), 1.24 (0.68–2.26), 1.82 (0.78–4.23), and 2.12 (1.08–4.20) after adjusting for confounding variables. In addition, an increase in serum ALT activity of 10 U/L was associated with an increased risk of coronary atherosclerosis.

Conclusions: In summary, patients with both hepatic steatosis and increases in ALT are associated with coronary calcification as a marker of coronary atherosclerosis determined by MDCT. This finding suggested that subjects with both hepatic steatosis and increased ALT should be considered for further evaluation of coronary atherosclerosis.
Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1829–34.
Investigation of the relationship between apolipoprotein E gene polymorphisms and hepatitis B virus infection in northern China
Authors: Yin Zhinong , Xiong Chenling , Wang Yongguang , Zhou Xin , Yan Sheng-Kai 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Background: Certain genetic polymorphisms can lead to differences in immunity function, resulting in different clinical outcomes for hepatitis B virus (HBV) patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between apolipoprotein E (ApoE) gene polymorphisms and HBV infection status in northern Chinese individuals.

Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted using an improved sodium iodide (NaI) method from the peripheral blood of 270 patients with hepatitis B and 112 healthy controls. Multiplex Amplification Refractory Mutation System (Multi-ARMS) was performed to analyze ApoE gene poly-morphisms with three alleles (ɛ2, ɛ3, ɛ4) in patients and controls. A chemiluminescence assay was used to detect serological markers for hepatitis B infection status.

Results: An improved PCR system for the detection of ApoE gene polymorphisms was established successfully. The frequency of the ɛ2 allele in patients with HBV infection was higher than that of normal controls (p<0.05). The ɛ2 allele, compared with the ɛ3 and ɛ4 alleles, showed positive correlation with the different HBV infection models [odds ratio (OR)=1.735, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.509–1.999, p<0.01; OR=1.768, 95% CI: 1.554–2.011, p<0.01]. The OR for the ApoE ɛ2 allele was 1.503 in a multivariate unconditional logistic regression model (OR=1.503, 95% CI: 1.212–1.754, p<0.01).

Conclusions: Our results indicated that the ApoE gene poly-morphism was associated with HBV infection, and the ɛ2 allele showed positive correlation with HBV infection in northern China.
Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1803–7.
Harmonization of free thyroid hormone tests: a mission impossible?
Authors: Iervasi Giorgio , Clerico Aldo 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
The aim of in vitro testing of thyroid function is to accurately reflect the in vivo activity of key analytes, such as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). For these key laboratory parameters, it is highly desirable that assay results are interpretable in relation to consensus reference intervals, which should not vary depending on the choice of method used for measurement. The IFCC Working Group for Standardization of Thyroid Function Tests has recently published three reports on standardization of thyroid function tests in order to resolve the issues concerning method performance and quality specifications, as well as to meet clinical requirements. The aim of the present article is to discuss the relevant contribution of the IFCC Working Group study towards the standardization of free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) assays. The most important result obtained by this study is the establishment of a reliable candidate reference procedure and some commutable reference materials. These reference materials, including sera collected from blood donors, were measured by the gold standard method, and by several immunoassay methods and two equilibrium dialysis procedures in order to obtain a recalibration of test results. The recalibration on average eliminated assay-specific biases with respect to reference method values. However, sample-related effects remained among the immunoassay methods tested. Although these findings are clearly important, they should only be considered a start towards harmonization of patients test results. In conclusion, further studies are necessary to answer the question of whether standardization and harmonization of the FT3 and FT4 test is an impossible mission (or not).
Serum paraoxonase 1 (PON1) lactonase activity is lower in end-stage renal disease patients than in healthy control subjects and increases after hemodialysis
Authors: Gugliucci Alejandro , Kinugasa Eriko , Kotani Kazuhiko , Caccavello Russell , Kimura Satoshi 
Published: October 2010

AbstractBackground:The mechanism of paraoxonase 1 (PON1) atheroprotective remains elusive. The lactonizing/lactonase activity of PON1 is gaining favor as the most significant in physiology.Methods:We studied 42 end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients undergoing hemodialysis (HD) and 49 control subjects. We measured PON1 lactonase, arylesterase and triesterase activities by kinetic methods.Results:Serum lactonase activity was 11% lower in ESRD patients (p<0.0001) and did not correlate with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol when controlling for confounders. Lactonase activity was significantly higher after dialysis. Using a repeated measure-ANOVA adjusted for the confounders (age, gender, total cholesterol, triglyceride and HDL cholesterol) we show that the changes in lactonase after dialysis were significant (p<0.0001). HD increases lactonase activity to levels indistinguishable from those of control subjects. In simple linear regression analyses we showed a significant inverse correlation between changes in lactonase and those of creatinine by dialysis (r=–0.339, p=0.028).Conclusions:ESRD patients maybe more susceptible to lipid peroxidation and to protein homocysteinylation than healthy subjects due to the decreased activity of lactonase. A lower serum lactonase activity would be coupled with delayed catabolism of oxidized phospholipids in low-density lipoprotein and oxidized macrophages, and with greater protein homocysteinylation, accelerating atherogenesis. One mechanism for lower lactonase activity in ESRD patients may be inhibition by uremic toxins and oxidative stress. The pathophysiology of reduced lactonase activity in uremia and the beneficial effects of HD need further investigation.
Use of serum free light chain analysis and urine protein electrophoresis for detection of monoclonal gammopathies
Authors: Holding Stephen , Spradbery Dorothy , Hoole Robin , Wilmot Rachel , Shields Michael L. , Levoguer Alison M. , Doré Philip C. 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Background: Serum free light chain (FLC) analysis is used in the prognostic assessment and monitoring of patients with monoclonal gammopathies (MG). Its use in detection of MG is less widespread despite good sensitivity for diseases poorly detected by serum protein electrophoresis (SPE), e.g., FLC disease and AL amyloidosis. FLC analysis may facilitate earlier diagnosis in these diseases. However, if replacing urine protein electrophoresis (UPE) in an initial screening algorithm, this must be balanced against any loss of detection of Bence Jones proteinuria (BJP).

Methods: We assessed the effect of replacing UPE with FLC. Sensitivity of FLC for BJP was assessed in 126 clinical cases where UPE and FLC analyses were performed. Impact on disease detection was assessed from 753 patient sera tested by SPE and FLC and 128 patients matched associated urine samples.

Results: Sensitivity of FLC for BJP was 98%. Use of FLC in routine testing increased the number of MG detected by 7%.

Conclusions: Using FLC alongside or in place of UPE can give clinical benefit through earlier diagnosis and hence treatment earlier in the patients' disease.
Testosterone is an independent determinant of bone mineral density in men with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Vasilkova Olga , Mokhort Tatiana , Sanec Igor , Sharshakova Tamara , Hayashida Naomi , Takamura Noboru 
Published: October 2010

Abstract

Background: Although many reports have elucidated pathophysiological characteristics of abnormal bone metabolism in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DT2), determinants of bone mineral density (BMD) in patients with DT2 are still controversial.

Methods: We examined 168 Belarussian men 45–60 years of age. Plasma total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), immunoreactive insulin, and C-reactive protein concentrations were assessed. BMD was measured using dual energy X-ray densitometry of the lumbar spine (L1–L4). Total testosterone (TT) and sex hormone-binding globulin were measured, and free testosterone (FT) was calculated.

Results: Using univariate linear regression analysis, BMD of the lumbar spine was significantly correlated with FT (r=0.32, p<0.01) and TT (r=0.36, p<0.01). Using multiple linear regression analysis adjusted for confounding factors, BMD was significantly correlated with TT (β=0.23, p<0.001) and TC (β=–0.029, p=0.005). Age (β=0.005, p=0.071), body mass index (β=0.005, p=0.053), HbA1c (β=–0.002, p=0.72) and duration of diabetes (β=0.001, p=0.62) were not significantly correlated with BMD.

Conclusions: Our data indicate that androgens are independent determinants of BMD in male patients with DT2.
On regularization method for numerical inversion of the Laplace transforms computable at any point on the real axis
Authors: Kryzhniy V. V. 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
The regularized inversion of real-valued Laplace transforms computable at any point on the real axis is discussed from the point of view of practical calculations. New criterion for selection of free parameters is suggested. Selection of optimal values of free parameters allows to improve the numerical results significantly.
The effectiveness of the proposed criterion is demonstrated with examples. Method can be used in conjunction with other numerical methods for problems where the inverse Laplace transform is expected to tend to a monotonic function.
Ecology of Dolichopodidae (Diptera) in a wetland habitat and their potential role as bioindicators
Authors: Gelbič Ivan , Olejníček Jiří 
Published: October 2010

Abstract
Ecological investigations of long-legged flies (Dolichopodidae) were carried out in wet meadow wetlands near České Budějovice, Czech Republic. Sampling was performed during the adult flies’ seasonal activity (March–October) in 2002, 2003 and 2004 using yellow pan traps, Malaise traps, emergence traps, and by sweeping. Altogether 5,697 specimens of 78 species of Dolichopodidae were collected, identified and analysed. The study examined community structure, species abundance, and diversity (Shannon-Weaver’s index - H’; Sheldon’s equitability index - E). Chrysotus cilipes, C. gramineus and Dolichopus ungulatus were the most abundant species in all three years. Species richness and diversity seem strongly affected by soil moisture.
Investigation of influence of tilt angle on mode dispersion in step-index plastic optical fibers
Authors: Kovacevic M.S. , Djordjevich A. 
Published: October 2010

AbstractEffect of numerical aperture on mode dispersion and bandwidth is reported for commercially available step-index plastic optical fibers. For the first time, the functional relationship is given between dispersion and the “tilt-angle” describing the slant of the input/output face for a fiber terminated by a plane not perpendicular to the fiber axis. This tilt of a non-squarely terminated fiber may be intentional as in some biomedical spectroscopic sensors, or otherwise when exploiting the quick-interconnectivity potential of plastic fibers.
Pack wounds of donkeys and mules in the Northern High Atlas and lowlands of Morocco
Authors: SELLS P. D. , PINCHBECK G. , MEZZANE H. , IBOURKI J. , CRANE M. 
Published: October 2010

SummaryReasons for performing study: Wounds are one of the primary welfare concerns of working equids and are often related to harness or load‐bearing packs.Objectives: To identify and quantify factors associated with the presence of pack wounds in donkeys and mules working in the wood trade in the Midelt (Northern High Atlas) region of Morocco, and to compare wounds of these donkeys and mules to those working in other trades.Methods: The study population comprised equids working in the Midelt region involved in the wood trade. Comparison populations were comprised of equids working in other trades, in the same region and in Khemmiset region (lowlands of Central Morocco). Wounds were numbered and scored according to their severity. Questionnaires were used to gather data from owners, and objective data regarding the animal, berdaa (back‐pack) and load were collected. Data were analysed using multilevel uniand multivariable regression models to allow for clustering of wound sites within an equid.Results: Analysis showed an overall pack wound prevalence of 54% (n = 80/147). The most common site was the withers. Equids working in the wood trade were at increased risk of suffering pack wounds. Equids in the lowland study population were at increased risk of developing pack wounds, and donkeys were at increased risk of suffering pack wounds compared to mules both overall and within the wood trade. Other factors affecting the prevalence of wounds included the cleanliness of the berdaa and the frequency and distances of work imposed on the equid.Conclusion: Pack wounds in donkeys and mules are common in the 2 study regions of Morocco and appear to be associated with work factors including the trade the equids work in, the frequency and distances of work imposed and cleanliness of the pack. Donkeys are more susceptible than mules to developing pack wounds.Potential relevance: These results allow recommendations to be made to owners of equids that may decrease the prevalence of wounds and, therefore, improve welfare and working capability of these equids. Research is required to identify reasons for regional difference in prevalence of pack wounds in equids not working in the wood trade.