bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Familial multiple myeloma. Two more families
Authors: Várkonyi Judit , Farkas Péter , Tamáska Júlia , Masszi Tamás , Gopcsa László , Padányi Ágnes , Rajczy Katalin 
Published: July 2009

Abstract
The authors report on two multiple myeloma sibling pairs. In the absence of a known disease-specific marker one can only speculate on an explanation: is it because of inherited errors or is it related to the same environmental exposure, or both? In this study HLA typing and metabolizing enzyme polymorphism studies have been carried out with the aim of finding inherited similarities in the siblings or characteristics that might differ from the average population. Sibling pair 1 shared an HLA haplotype. Sibling pair 2 shared only HLA-B51, DR4, DRw53, DQ3. Sibling 1/1 was GSTT1 / GSTM1 null and GSTP1 Ile105Val; sibling 1/2 was a GSTT1 / GSTM1 heterozygote and GSTP1 Ile105Val; sibling 2/1 and 2/2 were GSTT1 heterozygotes and shared GSTM1 null / GSTP1 Ile105Ile. The siblings had identical light chain or heavy chain secretion, or both. The similarities found in the inherited factors together with the same environmental exposure in the siblings’ first 20 years of life imply that the development of the same disease cannot be a coincidence.
Ontario Family Physician Readiness to Collaborate with Community Pharmacists on Drug Therapy Management: Lessons for Pharmacists
Authors: Pojskic Nedzad , MacKeigan Linda , Boon Heather , Ellison Philip , Breslin Curtis 
Published: July 2009

Background/Objective: Collaboration between community pharmacists and physicians with respect to drug therapy management occurs relatively infrequently. There has been little research on physicians' views about such collaboration. The primary objective of this study was to assess Ontario family physicians' attitudes and readiness to collaborate with community pharmacists on drug therapy management. Methods: A 3-page survey instrument inquiring about 3 collaborative behaviours was distributed by fax or mail to a random sample of 848 family physicians and general practitioners across Ontario. Nonrespondents received 2 reminders. Results: The survey response rate was 36%. Most physicians reported conversing with a community pharmacist about a patient's drug therapy management 5 or fewer times per week, and very few said they used pharmacists as their primary source of medication information. Eighty-four percent reported that they regularly took community pharmacists' phone calls, while 78% reported that they sometimes sought pharmacists' recommendations regarding patient drug therapy. Only 28% reported that they sometimes referred their patients to community pharmacists for medication reviews, with 44% being unaware that such a service existed. Most comments were favourable, typically providing positive examples of collaboration with pharmacists. The most important identified advantage of collaborating with community pharmacists was more accurate medication lists. The main disadvantage identified was that pharmacists are constrained by not having access to key patient information (e.g., diagnosis, lab results, consultant reports). Additional barriers to collaboration reported by physicians included rotating pharmacists and perceived pharmacist interference with physicians' drug therapy plans. Conclusion: Overall, Ontario family physicians were engaged in limited collaboration with community pharmacists. By making an effort to increase the frequency of their direct professional interactions with physicians, pharmacists can enhance physician awareness of their willingness to provide patient-oriented services, thus facilitating collaboration.
Detection of Extended Spectrum β-lactamase Production Among Uropathogens
Authors: Aggarwal Ritu , Chaudhary Uma , Sikka Rama 
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT
Background: Detection of extended spectrum β -lactamase (ESBL) production among uropathogens is an important marker of endemicity.
Aim: Intervention of this endemic transmission is important for the control of initial outbreak of ESBL producing organisms in a hospital or specialized unit of hospital.
Materials and Methods: During the study period of one and a half months, 1,551 urine samples were processed for significant bacteriuria. Two hundred gram negative bacterial isolates were tested for ESBL production. Antimicrobial sensitivity pattern was ascertained for ESBL producing isolates.
Results: ESBL production was seen in 36% of isolates. All the isolates were multidrug resistant with uniform sensitivity to imipenem.
Conclusion: This study reveals the significant prevalence of ESBL producing organisms in this north Indian tertiary care hospital. Constant revision of antibiotic policies with infection control interventions is suggested.
Progress of Science from Microscopy to Microarrays (Part 1): Diagnosis of Parasitic Diseases
Authors: Dey Ayan , Singh Sarman 
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACTEven though description of the magnifying glass goes back to 1021 by an Arabic physicist in his book, Antony van Leeuwenhoek was the first man to improve the then simple microscope for viewing biological specimens in 1674. This suggests that every discovery has scope for improvement, be it physics or be it biology. In the field of biology, scientists have long studied gene expression as a hallmark of gene activities reflecting the current cell conditions and response to host immune defense systems. These studies have been cumbersome, technically demanding and time-consuming. Application of microarrays has revolutionized this field and help understand the simultaneous expression of thousands of genes in a single sample put onto a single solid support. It is also now possible to compare gene expression in two different cell types, different stages of life cycle or two tissue samples, such as in healthy and diseased ones. Thus microarrays are beginning to dominate other conventional and molecular diagnostic technologies. The microarrays consist of solid supports onto which the nucleic acid sequences from thousands of different genes are immobilized, or attached at fixed locations. These solid supports themselves are usually glass slides, silicon chips or nylon membranes. The nucleic acids are spotted or synthesized directly onto the support. Application of microarrays is new for parasites. Most of these applications are done for monitoring parasite gene expression, to predict the functions of uncharacterized genes, probe the physiologic adaptations made under various environmental conditions, identify virulence-associated genes and test the effects of drug targets. The best examples are vector-borne parasites, such as Plasmodium, Trypanosoma and Leishmania, in which genes expressed, during mammalian and insect host stages, have been elucidated. Microarrays have also been successfully applied to understand the factors responsible to induce transformation from tachyzoite-to-bradyzoite and vice versa in Toxoplasma gondii. Thus microarrays provide a novel tool for diagnosis, prognosis and clinical management of infectious disease.
Immune Hemolytic Anemia: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Kaur Paramjit , Basu Sabita , Kaur Ravneet , Kaur Gagandeep 
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACTThe transfusion-medicine specialists and physicians are often in a difficult situation when the patient has severe worsening anemia and all the blood is mismatched. This situation can arise in patients with red cell autoantibodies or alloantibodies due to previous transfusions. We report two cases of immune hemolysis - one due to warm auto antibodies and the second due to alloimmunization from multiple transfusions.
Laboratory Approach to the Management of Clinical Emergencies: A Diagnostic Series
Authors: Gupta Swati 
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACTThis article emphasizes on the laboratory investigations that may play a significant role in the prompt management of the patient. Hence, other conditions where laboratory investigations will not play a major role are not included in this article. An attempt has been made to highlight certain issues wherein we can prevent inadvertent ordering of tests to minimize the burden on the overworked emergency laboratory, without compromising patient care. The conditions that will be dealt here include: acute chest pain, acute abdominal pain, road traffic injuries, acute respiratory distress, high grade fever, vomiting, loss of consciousness, poisoning and laboratory accidents, and lastly occupational exposure to potential biological hazards.
Impact of BRCA mutations on female fertility and offspring sex ratio
Authors: Moslehi Roxana , Singh Ranjana , Lessner Lawrence , Friedman Jan M. 
Published: July 2009

AbstractPositive selection for inherited mutations in breast and ovarian cancer predisposing genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, may contribute to the high frequency of BRCA mutations among the Ashkenazi Jewish population. Impact of BRCA mutations on fertility has not been generally explored in epidemiologic studies. There are reports of distorted sex ratios in BRCA carrier families but these findings have been attributed to bias. We investigated the effect of BRCA mutations on female fertility and offspring sex ratio in a study of 260 Ashkenazi Jewish women with ovarian cancer and 331 controls, unselected for age or family history of the disease. Pregnancy success was similar for 96 mutation carrier (0.84) and 164 noncarrier cases (0.87) and controls (0.83). After adjusting for covariates, there were no significant differences between BRCA carrier and noncarrier cases and controls with regards to fertility, despite lower pregnancy rates among all cases compared to controls (P = 0.0049). Male/female sex ratios were significantly lower among offspring of carriers (0.71) than offspring of noncarriers (0.95) or those of the controls (0.99). Comparisons among the three groups yielded statistically significant distortion against males among the offspring of known and obligate BRCA carriers compared to noncarriers (OR = 0.74, 95% CI:0.55–0.99) and controls (OR = 0.71, 95% CI:0.54–0.94). In conclusion, we did not find evidence for an effect of BRCA mutations on female fertility. We found a significant excess of females among the offspring of female carriers of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations. Potential contribution of observed sex ratio distortions to positive selection for BRCA mutations may warrant further investigation. Am. J. Hum. Biol., 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A multiscale approach for reconstructing archaeological landscapes: Applications in Northern Apulia (Italy)
Authors: Ciminale Marcello , Gallo Danilo , Lasaponara Rosa , Masini Nicola 
Published: July 2009

AbstractThis paper is focused on the joint use of multiscale remote sensing technologies for supporting archaeological prospection. Satellite imagery, aerial photographs and high‐resolution magnetic surveys were adopted for studying the Tavoliere, an extended agricultural region located in Northern Apulia (Italy) that is characterized by an abundant presence of archaeological sites. A first recognition of the archaeological features was performed by historical aerial photographs and satellite QuickBird images were used to obtain an up‐to‐date synoptic view of the study area. Archaeological features extracted from both aerial and satellite images, were further investigated by high‐resolution magnetic survey, which provided detailed identification of buried remains. All data were stored in a GIS in order to integrate them properly. This database was used to cross‐check information of different types and determine significant correlations. The multilayer analysis in the GIS environment allowed for a comprehensive reconstruction of ancient landscapes and their palaeoenvironmental context, as well as the present geomorphological and territorial setting. Moreover it represents an open information system that could always be upgraded by inputting new data from future studies. Results from our analyses suggest that this multidisciplinary and multiscale approach, in addition to its important scientific implications, could yield meaningful information for the preservation, monitoring and management of the cultural resource, from a single site to a landscape perspective; thus this integrated tool could play a strategic role in defining proper policies of sustainable development in this region. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GPR microwave tomography for diagnostic analysis of archaeological sites: the case of a highway construction in Pontecagnano (Southern Italy)
Authors: Castaldo R. , Crocco L. , Fedi M. , Garofalo B. , Persico R. , Rossi A. , Soldovieri F. 
Published: July 2009

AbstractInterpretation of ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) data usually involves data processing similar to that used for seismic data analysis, including also migration techniques. Alternatively, in the past few years, microwave tomographic approaches exploiting more accurate models of the electromagnetic scattering have gained interest, owing to their capability of providing accurate results and stable images. Within this framework, this paper deals with the application of a microwave tomography approach, based on the Born Approximation and working in the frequency domain. The case study is a survey performed during the realization of the third lane of the most important highway in southern Italy (the Salerno‐Reggio Calabria, near Pontecagnano, Italy). It is shown that such an inversion approach produces well‐focused images, from which buried structures can be more easily identified by comparison to traditional radar images. Moreover, the visualization of the reconstruction results is further enhanced through a three‐dimensional volumetric rendering of the surveyed region, simply achieved by staggering the reconstructed GPR two‐dimensional profiles. By means of this rendering it is possible to follow the spatial continuity of the buried structures in the subsurface thus obtaining a very effective geometrical characterization. The results are very useful in our case where, due to important civil engineering works, a fast diagnosis of the archaeological situation was needed. The quality of our GPR data modelling was confirmed by a test excavation, where a corner of a building and the eastern part of another house, with its courtyard, were found at the depth and horizontal position suggested by our interpretation. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Regulation of the interferon‐α production induced by RNA‐containing immune complexes in plasmacytoid dendritic cells
Authors: Eloranta Maija‐Leena , Lövgren Tanja , Finke Doreen , Mathsson Linda , Rönnelid Johan , Kastner Berthold , Alm Gunnar V. , Rönnblom Lars 
Published: July 2009

AbstractObjectiveInterferon‐α (IFNα) is produced in several autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and may be important in their pathogenesis. We undertook this study to investigate how IFNα production induced by RNA‐containing immune complexes (ICs) in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (PDCs) is regulated.MethodsNormal PDCs purified from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were cocultivated with other cell populations isolated from healthy individuals or SLE patients. IFNα production was induced by RNA‐containing ICs, which consisted of anti‐RNP autoantibodies and U1 small nuclear RNP particles, and the effects of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), reactive oxygen species (ROS), or the cytokines IFNα2b, granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), or tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) were explored.ResultsMonocytes inhibited IFNα production by PDCs in PBMC cultures, while natural killer (NK) cells were stimulatory. The monocytes had little effect on IFNα production by pure PDCs but inhibited its stimulation by NK cells. Monocytes from SLE patients were less inhibitory. Exposure of PBMCs or PDCs to IFNα2b/GM‐CSF increased their IFNα production. RNA‐containing ICs caused production of ROS, PGE2, and TNFα, especially in monocytes. These mediators and IL‐10 suppressed IFNα production in PBMC cultures, with ROS and PGE2 also inhibiting IFNα production by purified PDCs. Inhibition by all of these agents, except for ROS, was abolished by IFNα2b/GM‐CSF. The inhibitory effect of monocytes was significantly counteracted by the ROS scavengers serotonin and catalase.ConclusionIFNα production induced by RNA‐containing ICs in PDCs is regulated by a network of interactions between monocytes, NK cells, and PDCs, involving several pro‐ and antiinflammatory molecules. This should be considered when designing and applying new therapies.
Therapeutic effects of interleukin‐6 blockade in a murine model of polymyositis that does not require interleukin‐17A
Authors: Okiyama Naoko , Sugihara Takahiko , Iwakura Yoichiro , Yokozeki Hiroo , Miyasaka Nobuyuki , Kohsaka Hitoshi 
Published: July 2009

AbstractObjectiveTo explore new molecular targets in the treatment of polymyositis (PM) by examining a recently established murine model of PM, C protein–induced myositis (CIM), for involvement of an interleukin‐6 (IL‐6)/IL‐17A pathway.MethodsCIM was induced by immunizing wild‐type mice as well as IL‐6–null and IL‐17A–null C57BL/6 mice with recombinant mouse skeletal C protein fragments. Some mice were treated with anti–IL‐6 receptor (anti–IL‐6R) monoclonal antibodies or control antibodies. Muscle tissue samples were examined histologically and immunohistochemically.ResultsThe syngeneic C protein fragments successfully induced inflammation in the skeletal muscles of wild‐type mice. IL‐6 was expressed by mononuclear cells, especially in macrophages, infiltrating in the muscles. IL‐6–null mice developed myositis with significantly lower incidence and milder severity than wild‐type mice. In contrast, IL‐17A–null mice were as susceptible to CIM as wild‐type mice. Intraperitoneal administration of anti–IL‐6R monoclonal antibodies, but not of control monoclonal antibodies, ameliorated CIM both preventively and therapeutically.ConclusionOur findings indicate that IL‐6 is critically involved in the development of CIM. Although many other autoimmune models require IL‐6 for differentiation of pathogenic T cells producing IL‐17A, IL‐17A was dispensable in CIM. Nevertheless, treatment with anti–IL‐6R antibodies was effective. IL‐6 blockade is potentially a new approach to the treatment of autoimmune myositis, via processes distinct from interference in the IL‐6/IL‐17A pathway.
Down‐regulation of cathepsin K in synovium leads to progression of osteoarthritis in rabbits
Authors: Takahashi Daisuke , Iwasaki Norimasa , Kon Shigeyuki , Matsui Yuichiro , Majima Tokifumi , Minami Akio , Uede Toshimitsu 
Published: July 2009

AbstractObjectiveThe hypothesis of this study was that synovial factors playing a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) and thus gene expression in the synovium would be altered at the initial stage of OA. The aims of this study were to identify the candidate genes in synovium related to OA initiation, to evaluate cartilage degeneration after knockdown of the gene using small interfering RNA (siRNA) gene silencing in the knee joints at the initial stage of OA, and to determine the potential role of the knocked‐down gene in OA initiation.MethodsGenes overexpressed in synovium at the initial stage of disease in a rabbit model of anterior cruciate ligament transection (ACLT)–induced OA were identified using the suppression subtractive hybridization technique and differential screening. Candidate gene expression in the synovium of the knees of rabbits with OA was manipulated with electroporation‐assisted siRNA transduction 4 times before and after operation. Four weeks after surgery, histologic analysis was performed.ResultsCathepsin K gene and protein expression was significantly up‐regulated in synovium at the initial stage of OA in rabbits. Down‐regulation of cathepsin K in synovium at the initial stage of OA significantly accelerated cartilage degeneration.ConclusionThese results indicate that cathepsin K plays a protective role in cartilage degeneration at the initial stage of OA. We believe that the current results obtained from models of the early phase of OA will provide useful information for developing a novel strategy to prevent disease progression.
Comparing a rule‐based versus statistical system for automatic categorization of MEDLINE documents according to biomedical specialty
Authors: Humphrey Susanne M. , Névéol Aurélie , Browne Allen , Gobeil Julien , Ruch Patrick , Darmoni Stéfan J. 
Published: July 2009

AbstractAutomatic document categorization is an important research problem in Information Science and Natural Language Processing. Many applications, including, Word Sense Disambiguation and Information Retrieval in large collections, can benefit from such categorization. This paper focuses on automatic categorization of documents from the biomedical literature into broad discipline‐based categories. Two different systems are described and contrasted: CISMeF, which uses rules based on human indexing of the documents by the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) controlled vocabulary in order to assign metaterms (MTs), and Journal Descriptor Indexing (JDI), based on human categorization of about 4,000 journals and statistical associations between journal descriptors (JDs) and textwords in the documents. We evaluate and compare the performance of these systems against a gold standard of humanly assigned categories for 100 MEDLINE documents, using six measures selected from trec_eval. The results show that for five of the measures performance is comparable, and for one measure JDI is superior. We conclude that these results favor JDI, given the significantly greater intellectual overhead involved in human indexing and maintaining a rule base for mapping MeSH terms to MTs. We also note a JDI method that associates JDs with MeSH indexing rather than textwords, and it may be worthwhile to investigate whether this JDI method (statistical) and CISMeF (rule‐based) might be combined and then evaluated showing they are complementary to one another.
When stopword lists make the difference
Authors: Dolamic Ljiljana , Savoy Jacques 
Published: July 2009

AbstractIn this brief communication, we evaluate the use of two stopword lists for the English language (one comprising 571 words and another with 9) and compare them with a search approach accounting for all word forms. We show that through implementing the original Okapi form or certain ones derived from the Divergence from Randomness (DFR) paradigm, significantly lower performance levels may result when using short or no stopword lists. For other DFR models and a revised Okapi implementation, performance differences between approaches using short or long stopword lists or no list at all are usually not statistically significant. Similar conclusions can be drawn when using other natural languages such as French, Hindi, or Persian.