bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A case of Poland Syndrome associated with dextroposition
Authors: Lacorte Doriana , Marsella Maria , Guerrini Pietro 
Published: February 2010

Abstract
Classical Poland Syndrome (PS) is characterized by unilateral, partial or complete absence of the sternocostal head of the major pectoral muscle and brachysyndactyly of fingers on the same side.
We report the case of a newborn infant with dextrocardia and PS located on the left side.
This association is very rare: to date only 19 cases have been described in scientific literature. In all reported cases, as in the present, the Poland defect involved the left side and was associated to rib defects, whereas most cases of PS are on the right side and few have rib defects. This case supports the view that dextrocardia follows the loss of volume of the left hemithorax caused by Poland sequence and that the combination of PS and dextrocardia is not coincidental.
Comparison of sensitivity of Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells to Fas-mediated apoptosis
Authors: Fang Yujiang , Yu Shiguang , Ellis Jason S , Sharav Tumenjargal , Braley-Mullen Helen 
Published: February 2010

Abstract
Decreased FasL and increased FLIP expression levels in Th17 cells correlated with their decreased sensitivity to Fas-mediated apoptosis as compared to Th1 cells.
Following activation through the TCR, CD4+ T cells can differentiate into three major subsets: Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells. IL-17-secreting Th17 cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases and in immune responses to pathogens, but little is known about the regulation of apoptosis in Th17 cells. In this study, the sensitivity of in vitro-polarized Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells to Fas-mediated apoptosis was compared directly by different methods. The order of sensitivity of T cell subsets to Fas-mediated apoptosis is: Th1 &gt; Th17 &gt; Th2. The greater sensitivity of Th17 cells to Fas-mediated apoptosis compared with Th2 cells correlated with their higher expression of FasL and comparable expression of the antiapoptotic molecule FLIP. The decreased sensitivity of Th17 compared with Th1 cells correlated with the higher expression of FLIP by Th17 cells. Transgenic overexpression of FLIP in T cells protected all three subsets from Fas-mediated apoptosis. These findings provide new knowledge for understanding how survival of different subsets of T cells is regulated.
Genetic redirection of T cells for cancer therapy
Authors: Westwood Jennifer A , Kershaw Michael H 
Published: February 2010

Abstract
Review on tumor-specific T cells for adoptive immunotherapy generated using genetic modification: recent advances facilitate clinical translation of this therapeutic approach.
Adoptive immunotherapy can induce dramatic tumor regressions in patients with melanoma or viral-induced malignancies, but extending this approach to many common cancers has been hampered by a lack of naturally occurring tumor-specific T cells. In this review, we describe recent advances in the genetic modification of T cells using genes encoding cell-surface receptors specific for tumor-associated antigen. Using genetic modification, the many functional properties of T cells, including cytokine secretion and cytolytic capacity, are redirected from their endogenous specificity toward the elimination of tumor cells. Advances in gene design, vectors, and cell production are discussed, and details of the progress in clinical application of this approach are provided.
Perceived Barriers to Provision of Medication Therapy Management Services (MTMS) and the Likelihood of a Pharmacist to Work in a Pharmacy that Provides MTMS
Authors: Blake Kimberly B , Madhavan S Suresh 
Published: February 2010

Background: Recently, medication therapy management services (MTMS) has gained significant attention as an important type of pharmaceutical care designed to improve patient outcomes with more appropriate medication usage and monitoring. Although the provision of MTMS is increasing in pharmacies across the nation, and pharmacists are well equipped to administer MTMS, many community pharmacists are not currently providing these services. Objective: To determine barriers to provision of MTMS perceived by pharmacists and factors associated with the likelihood of working in a pharmacy that provides MTMS. Methods: Surveys were mailed to 906 community pharmacists licensed in West Virginia using a stratified random sample. The instrument was constructed and finalized following a review by experts and pilot tested in a convenience sample of pharmacists. Principal components analysis was performed to determine the factors that describe perceived barriers to provision of MTMS. Discriminant analysis using factor scores and other demographic and practice variables was performed to predict respondents' likelihood to work in a pharmacy that provides MTMS. Results: A 3-factor model was extracted from the responses, which explained 53.3% of the total variance. The factors included perceived ability to respond to patient interest, pharmacy-related factors, and enabling factors. The discriminant function correctly classified 76.2% of cases and included comfort level with provision of services, perceived value of services to patients, perceived ability to respond to patient interest, and whether they currently offer MTMS. These variables were all positively correlated with pharmacists' likelihood of working in a pharmacy that provides MTMS. Conclusions: Comfort level and ability are important factors that influence pharmacists' likelihood of working in a pharmacy that provides MTMS. These findings highlight the importance of advanced practice experiences, certificate programs, and residencies to build pharmacists' confidence, and the role of targeted recruitment to attract pharmacists to community pharmacies that provide MTMS.
Cerebral Spinal Fluid Penetration of Tigecycline in a Patient with Acinetobacter baumannii Cerebritis
Authors: Ray Leslie , Levasseur Kimberly , Nicolau David P , Scheetz Marc H 
Published: February 2010

Objective: To describe cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) penetration of tigecycline. Case Summary: A 38-year-old woman experienced a right internal carotid artery dissection and right anterior and middle cerebral artery strokes due to unknown causes and subsequently developed vasogenic edema requiring right hemicraniectomy. Her postoperative course was complicated by multiple infections, and she developed multidrug, carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii cerebritis. She was treated with a prolonged course of multiple antibiotics, including 18 days of therapy with tigecycline. Time-paired serum and CSF samples were obtained, and tigecycline concentrations were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography. We report serial, steady-state, serum, and CSF concentrations of tigecycline when administered in the Food and Drug Administration-approved dose of 50 mg every 12 hours. CSF concentrations remained relatively stable, suggesting that tigecycline did not accumulate in the CSF, at least in our patient. Tigecycline concentrations in the CSF were between 0.035 and 0.048 mg/L, while corresponding serum concentrations were 0.097–0.566 mg/L. The calculated tigecycline penetration ratio in this patient ranged from 0% to 52%, depending on the calculation methodology utilized. Discussion: Concentrations, regardless of sample timing relative to dose, remained relatively stable in the CSF of our patient. The pharmacodynamic profile of tigecycline is not completely elucidated; however, it is presumed that the drug must be at the site of infection for efficacy. Our patient never obtained tigecycline concentrations in excess of the minimum inhibitory concentration for A. baumannii in either the serum or the CSF. Conclusions: Our patient experienced low CSF tigecycline concentrations and failed to achieve a clinical response while on therapy. CSF drug disposition of tigecycline requires further systematic study to fully elucidate the pharmacokinetic profile. Reduced CSF concentrations urge caution in the treatment of cerebritis with standard dosing of tigecycline.
New Drug Approvals: Pitavastatin: A New HMG-CoA Reductase Inhibitor
Authors: Wensel Terri M , Waldrop Bruce A , Wensel Brian 
Published: February 2010

Objective: To review pitavastatin, the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor and determine its place in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Data Sources: Literature was accessed through PubMed (1948–December 2009). Pitavastatin, itavastatin, nisvastatin, NK 104, and NKS 104 were used as search terms. Results were limited to articles written in the English language. Study Selection And Data Extraction: All articles identified from the data source were reviewed for inclusion. Articles included were those pertaining to the pharmacology and pharmacokinetic properties of pitavastatin, in addition to original research evaluating the clinical efficacy of pitavastatin for hypercholesterolemia. Data Synthesis: Pitavastatin is an oral HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of primary hyperlipidemia and mixed dyslipidwmia. Pitavastatin 2 mg has been shown to be noninferior to atorvastatin 10 mg and simvastatin 20 mg with respect to low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C)–lowering ability. Additionally, pitavastatin 2 mg was shown in one study to lower LDL-C significantly more than pravastatin 10 mg. As with other HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, primary safety concerns are related to myopathies and alterations in liver enzyme levels. While efficacy regarding beneficial effects on lipid parameters is comparable to that of other agents, a potential advantage of pitavastatin is its cytochrome P450 (CYP450) independent elimination, thereby reducing the likelihood of clinically significant drug-drug interactions. However, this is not a unique property, as pravastatin and rosuvastatin also possess this property. Conclusions: In light of the lack of outcome data, pitavastatin offers no clear advantage over other drugs in this class.
Use of the Chloride Channel Activator Lubiprostone for Constipation in Adults with Cystic Fibrosis: A Case Series
Authors: O'Brien Catherine E , Anderson Paula J , Stowe Cindy D 
Published: February 2010

Objective: To describe the use of lubiprostone for constipation in 3 adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). Case Summary: This case series describes the use of lubiprostone for the treatment of constipation in 3 adutts with CF (mean ± SD length of therapy 17.3 ± 1.5 mo). All 3 patients were prescribed lubiprostone 24 μg twice daily after hospitalization for treatment of intestinal obstruction. Patient 1 continues on chronic polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 and lubiprostone and has not had a recurrence of obstruction. Patient 2 requires aggressive chronic therapy with PEG 3350, lubiprostone, and methylnaltrexone. She has had 1 recurrence of obstruction. Patient 3 continues with lubiprostone taken several times per week with good control of constipation and no recurrence of obstruction to date. The adverse effect profile has been tolerable in all 3 patients. Discussion: CF is caused by a genetic mutation resulting in a dysfunctional or absent CF transmembrane conductance regulator that normally functions as a chloride channel. This results in viscous secretions in multiple organ systems including the lungs and intestinal tract. Accumulation of viscous intestinal contents contributes to constipation, which is common among adults with CF and can sometimes lead to intestinal obstruction. Lubiprostone is indicated for chronic constipation and works by activating type 2 chloride channels (CIC-2) in the intestinal tract. Because it utilizes an alternate chloride channel, lubiprostone may be especially effective for constipation in patients with CF. Conclusions: Lubiprostone provides an additional option for the treatment of constipation in adults with CF. Its use in the CF population deserves further study.
Risk perception and moralization among smokers in the USA and Denmark: A qualitative approach
Authors: Helweg‐Larsen Marie , Tobias Margaret R. , Cerban Bettina M. 
Published: February 2010

Objectives. The present research explored the role that culture plays in smokers' description of their risk perceptions and experiences as targets of moralization.Methods. We conducted in‐depth qualitative interviews with 15 smokers each from Denmark (a smoking‐lenient culture) and the USA (a smoking‐prohibitive culture).Results. Smokers said they were well aware of the risks of smoking yet minimized the risks of active and passive smoking; Danes were particularly likely to minimize these risks. Smokers also described many experiences as targets of moralization and accepted some elements of moralized attitudes although overall Danes more strongly rejected moralized opinions. Smokers described adjusting to moralization by changing when and where but not how much they smoked.Conclusion. It is important to consider cultural influences on moralization and risk perception of smoking.
Early maladaptive schemas and personality disorder symptoms: An examination in a non‐clinical sample
Authors: Carr Steven N. , Francis Andrew J. P. 
Published: February 2010

Objective.This study aimed to examine the overall and specific relationship between early maladaptive schemas (EMSs) and personality disorder (PD) symptoms in a non‐clinical sample.Design.While a notable previous study has examined the relationship between EMSs and PD symptoms after statistically controlling for gender and within‐cluster PD symptoms, they did not control for comorbid axis I and inter‐cluster PD symptoms. Hence, we redressed this methodological problem by statistically controlling for these conditions in a series of multiple regressions.Methods.In a sample of 178 non‐clinical participants, we obtained self‐reports of PD symptoms, depression, anxiety, eating disorder, and EMSs.Results.Results of a series of multiple regressions found that EMSs significantly predicted all PD symptoms apart from borderline and antisocial PDs and our hypotheses were largely consistent with hypotheses for cluster A and C PDs. We also found that specific EMSs differentially predicted PD subtypes even after controlling for other PD symptoms, depression, anxiety, and eating disorder symptoms.Conclusion.This study supports the contention that PDs are related to EMSs and there are specific relationships between particular EMSs and particular PDs.
Klk8, a multifunctional protease in the brain and skin: analysis of knockout mice
Authors: Yoshida Shigetaka 
Published: February 2010

Abstract
Klk8 is a tryptic serine protease with limited substrate specificity. Klk8 mRNA is expressed in many developing organs, whereas its expression is confined to limited regions, including the hippocampus, in adults. In the hippocampus, Klk8 is involved in activity-dependent synaptic changes such as long-term potentiation, which was found to be suppressed in Klk8 knockout (KO) mice. Oligodendrocytes only expressed Klk8 mRNA after injury to the central nervous system. The epidermis of the skin is one of the tissues that exhibits a high level of KLK8 expression. Klk8 might be involved in desquamation through the degradation of adhesive molecules that connect layers of the epidermis. Klk8 might thus be involved in tissue development and rearrangement.
Kallikrein-related peptidases: proteolysis and signaling in cancer, the new frontier
Authors: Oikonomopoulou Katerina , Diamandis Eleftherios P. , Hollenberg Morley D. 
Published: February 2010

Abstract
The exact mechanism(s) by which kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) function, their levels of activity and their potential endogenous targets in vivo have only recently begun to be revealed. Our group and others have shown that KLKs can have hormonal properties by signaling via proteinase-activated receptors (PARs), a family of G-protein-coupled receptors. Signals by PAR1, PAR2, and PAR4 can regulate calcium release or mitogen-activated protein kinase activation and lead to platelet aggregation, vascular relaxation, cell proliferation, cytokine release, and inflammation. We have further documented the presence of active KLK6 and 10 (by activity-based ELISA or proteomics) and the presence of proteinase inhibitors, such as α1-antitrypsin, in cancer-derived fluids. We suggest that tumors and inflamed tissues can release active KLKs, which are under tight regulation by proteinase inhibitors. These enzymes can potentially control cell/tissue behavior by regulating PAR activation in specific settings and disease stages.
Identification of IGFBP-3 fragments generated by KLK2 and prevention of fragmentation by KLK2-inhibiting peptides
Authors: Hekim Can , Riipi Tero , Weisell Janne , Närvänen Ale , Koistinen Riitta , Stenman Ulf-Håkan , Koistinen Hannu 
Published: February 2010

AbstractKallikrein-related peptidase 2 (KLK2) degrades insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3)in vitro. IGFBP-3 forms complexes with IGFs, preventing them from binding to their receptors and stimulating cell proliferation and survival. IGF-independent actions have also been described for IGFBP-3. The degradation of IGFBP-3 by KLK2 or other proteases in the prostate may promote the growth of prostate cancer. We studied IGFBP-3 degradation by immunoblotting and two specific immunoassays, one recognizing only native non-fragmented IGFBP-3 and the other one recognizing both intact and proteolytically cleaved IGFBP-3. Peptides were used to inhibit the enzyme activity of KLK2 and cleavage sites in IGFBP-3 were identified by mass spectrometry. KLK2 proteolyzed IGFBP-3 into several small fragments, mostly after Arg residues, in keeping with the trypsin-like activity of KLK2. The fragmentation could be inhibited by KLK2-inhibiting peptides in a dose-dependent fashion. As degradation of IGFBP-3 could lead to a more aggressive cancer phenotype, inhibition of KLK2 activity might be useful for treatment of prostate cancer and other diseases associated with increased KLK2 activity.
Lack of association between DAZ gene methylation patterns and spermatogenic failure
Authors: Wu Wei , Lu Chuncheng , Xia Yankai , Shen Ouxi , Ji Guixiang , Gu Aihua , Song Ling , Wang Xinru 
Published: February 2010

Abstract

Background: Abnormal DNA methylation of the male germ line is proposed as a possible mechanism causing compromised spermatogenesis in some men diagnosed with idiopathic infertility. Previous studies suggested that aberrant DNA methylation of several genes is associated with disruptions in spermatogenesis. However, little information is available on DNA methylation patterns of testis-specific genes in idiopathic male infertility.

Methods: To investigate the association between DAZ gene methylation patterns and spermatogenic failure, we performed an analysis of methylation patterns in 174 idiopathic infertile patients and 58 fertile controls using bisulfite-modified sequencing.

Results: We found that the methylation patterns of CpG island (CGI) in the DAZ gene promoter region were different between somatic cells and spermatic cells in the control group. DAZ gene methylation patterns among groups with different spermatogenic status were the same in somatic cells, completely methylated. The results were concordant in spermatic cells, completely unmethylated, in groups with different degrees of spermatogenesis, except for the group with azoospermia (AZ).

Conclusions: Our data indicate that the methylation patters of the DAZ gene are not associated with spermatogenic failure. This suggests that epigenetic modification of DAZ is unlikely to be involved in the etiology of spermatogenic failure.
Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:355–60.
An Oral Appliance with Velar Extension for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Infants with Pierre Robin Sequence
Authors: Bacher Margit , Sautermeister Judit , Urschitz Michael S. , Buchenau Wolfgang , Arand Joerg , Poets Christian F. 
Published: February 2010

Objective A new oral appliance to treat obstructive sleep apnea in infants with Pierre Robin sequence has recently been shown to be superior to a sham procedure. We now investigate safety and long-term effects of this appliance on obstructive sleep apnea in infants with Pierre Robin sequence. Design Case series with repetitive follow-up examinations. Setting Tertiary neonatal intensive care unit at the University Children's Hospital Tuebingen, Germany. Patients Fifteen infants (11 girls and four boys; median age, 5 days) with Pierre Robin sequence and obstructive sleep apnea (i.e., mixed-obstructive-apnea index > 3). Intervention A custom-made intraoral appliance with velar extension was used continuously in situ from admission until 3 months after hospital discharge. Main Outcome Measure The mixed-obstructive-apnea index was determined prior to the intervention at admission, at discharge, and 3 months later using polygraphic sleep studies. The geometric mean of the mixed-obstructive-apnea index and its 95% confidence interval were calculated. Results Compared with admission (mean, 17.2; 95% confidence interval, 11.1–26.7), there was a significant decrease in the mixed-obstructive-apnea index to discharge (mean, 3.8; 95% confidence interval, 2.2–6.6) and 3 months later (mean, 1.2; 95% confidence interval, 0.7–2.2; p value < .001). No severe adverse events occurred. Conclusions This oral appliance was safe and appears to treat obstructive sleep apnea effectively in infants with Pierre Robin sequence.
Narratives of the Struggling Reader
Authors: Vlach Saba , Burcie Judy 
Published: February 2010

Struggling readers need to be taught at their instruction level. But often, separating them from their classmates reinforces their feelings of inadequacy. This article will explain the importance of developing a sense of agency in struggling learners and outline some strategies teachers can incorporate to help make this happen within the classroom.يحتاج القراء المواجهون صعوبة في القراءة إلى أن يتعلموا على مستواهم التعليمي. ومع ذلك وكثيراً من الأحيان انفصالهم من زملاءهم في غرفة الصف يعزز أحاسيسهم بالنقص. لذا تصف هذه المقالة أهمية تطور وعي الفاعلية في الدارسين المواجهين صعوبة في الدراسة وتحدد بعض الإستراتيجيات قد يدمجها المعلمون لمساعدة تنفيذها في غرفة الصف.有阅读困难的学生需要得到适合他们能力水平的教学。可是，教师常常把这些学生与其他同学分开，因而加深了他们力有不逮的感觉。本文阐释培养原动力意识这个教学目标对有学习困难的学生的重要性，并概述教师可以在教室内采用的一些教学策略，以实现这个教学目标。Il faut enseigner aux lecteurs qui ont des difficultés au niveau qui leur convient. Mais souvent, en les séparant de leurs camarades de classe, on renforce leur sentiment d'inaptitude. Cet article explique l'importance de développer le sens de l'action chez les lecteurs en difficulté et présente des stratégies que les enseignants puissent adopter pour que ceci se produise en classe.Обучение детей, испытывающих трудности с чтением, должно соответствовать их уровню и возможностям. Однако, отделяя их от одноклассников, мы зачастую усугубляем их комплексы. В статье разъясняется, как важно развивать у таких учеников чувство принадлежности, общности с классом. Предлагаются некоторые стратегии, которые позволят проблемным детям нагнать одноклассников на обычных уроках, не меняя среду обучения.Lectores con dificultades tienen que recibir isntrucción a su nivel. A menudo, sin embargo, separarlos de sus compañeros de clase los hace sentirse ineptos. Este artículo explica la importancia de desarrollar un sentido de valimineto en estudiantes con problemas y hace un resumen de estrategias que los maestros pueden incorporar en sus clases para fomentar tal sentido.