bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Arginine transport in human monocytic leukemia THP-1 cells during macrophage differentiation
Authors: Barilli Amelia , Rotoli Bianca Maria , Visigalli Rossana , Bussolati Ovidio , Gazzola Gian C , Dall'Asta Valeria 
Published: May 2011

ABSTRACTl-arginine metabolism in myeloid cells plays a central role in the processes of macrophage activation and in the regulation of immune responses. In this study, we investigated arginine transport activity and the expression of the related transporter genes during the differentiation of monocytes to macrophages. We show here that the induction of THP-1 monocyte differentiation by PMA markedly increases the expression of SLC7A7 mRNA and of y+LAT1 protein and consequently, the activity of system y+L-mediated arginine transport. Conversely, the activity of system y+ decreases during macrophage differentiation as a result of a reduction in CAT1 protein expression. The PMA-induced, macrophage-differentiated phenotype and the increased activity of system y+L through the induction of SLC7A7 gene are mediated by the specific activation of PKCβ. SLC7A7 gene silencing causes a significant reduction of system y+L activity and a subsequent, marked increase of arginine and lysine cell content, thus suggesting that in macrophagic cells, system y+L activity is mainly directed outwardly. Differentiating agents other than PMA, i.e., VD3 and ATRA, are equally effective in the stimulation of system y+L transport activity through the increased expression of SLC7A7 mRNA and y+LAT1 protein. Moreover, we found that also during differentiation of human monocytes from peripheral blood SLC7A7 mRNA and system y+L activity are increased. These findings point to SLC7A7 gene as a marker of macrophage differentiation.
How often do we ask about pregnancy in the diabetes review clinic?
Authors: Grant Paul , Lipscomb David 
Published: May 2011

Background Sub-optimal control of diabetes is a significant cause of complications during pregnancy. One of the aims of diabetes management should be to ensure that all women of child-bearing age with diabetes should be regularly screened with regard to their plans for pregnancy to ensure that their overall diabetic control and fitness for pregnancy can be maximized. Methods We analysed the electronic patient records of a target population of young women of child-bearing age (16–45) with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes who were attending the diabetes review clinic over a period of three years from 2007 to 2010. The Diabeta 3 software program which is commonly used has a query builder function which allows immediate recall and analysis of data. Results Of 1808 patients within the fertile range, only a small number appeared to have had information accurately documented with regard to any of the following: pregnancy plans, preconception counselling, contraception and also the recording of whether patients with diabetes were pregnant or not and enrolled in the ante-natal diabetes clinic. Conclusions The main inference from the data is its paucity and inaccuracy. It would appear that we are failing to enquire and/or record the fertility intentions of young female patients with diabetes. This is important because it means that we subsequently then miss those patients who need to be targeted for preconception counselling/optimization, which has implications for the morbidity and mortality associated with diabetes in pregnancy.
Evaluation of lymph drainage using bioelectrical impedance of the body
Authors: de Godoy J M P , Valente F M , Azoubel L M , Godoy M F G 
Published: May 2011

Aim The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of manual and mechanical lymph drainage on the bioelectrical composition of body tissues of patients with lymphoedema of the lower limbs. Method Twenty-one patients with lymphoedema of one leg were evaluated using single frequency bioelectrical impedance with four electrodes (SF-BIA4) immediately before and after a combination of manual and mechanical lymph drainage. Statistical analysis used the two-tailed paired t-test with an alpha error of 5% being considered acceptable. Results On comparing the results before and after lymph drainage, statistically significant differences were identified for both lymphoedematous and apparently healthy legs, but there were no significant differences in the alterations caused by the treatment between the healthy and lymphoedematous limbs of the same patient. Conclusion It was concluded that the association of manual and mechanical lymph drainage both modified the body composition as identified by bioelectrical impedance, and reduced the oedema.
Changes in popliteal vein diameter and flow velocity with knee flexion and hyperextension
Authors: Levine A , Huber J , Huber D 
Published: May 2011

Objective To compare popliteal vein (PV) diameter and peak flow velocity generated by a calf compressor, when the knee is either flexed or hyperextended. Method Subjects lay supine on a couch with a calf compressor on each leg. Peak flow velocities in the PV were measured by duplex ultrasound during activation of the compressor, when the knee was either flexed or hyperextended. Hyperextension of the knee is seen when the heel is elevated to prevent heel pressure ulcers. Results The results were analysed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. This showed a significant increase in peak flow measurements related to narrowing of the PV when the knee was hyperextended. Conclusion There is a functional narrowing of the PV during hyperextension of the knee. We developed a model, which postulates an increase in the risk of deep vein thrombosis in patients whose knee is hyperextended. Based on this model, we suggest that the knee should be flexed slightly when patients are supine and anaesthetized.
Evaluation of a Simplified N-Acetylcysteine Dosing Regimen for the Treatment of Acetaminophen Toxicity
Authors: Johnson Michael T , McCammon Craig A , Mullins Michael E , Halcomb S Eliza 
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND: Acetaminophen overdose is the most common pharmaceutical poisoning in the US. The labeled dosing regimen for Acetadote, the only intravenous N-acetylcysteine (IV-NAC) product approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treatment of acetaminophen toxicity, is a complex 3-step process that produces frequent medication errors. We have been using an off-label, uncomplicated dosing regimen consisting of a standard preparation of IV-NAC 30 g in 1 L of 5% dextrose in water, with a 150-mg/kg loading dose administered over 1 hour followed by an infusion of 14 mg/kg/h for 20 hours. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the frequency of medication errors, resolution of hepatotoxicity, and tolerability of the protocol used in our institution for treatment of acetaminophen toxicity. METHODS: This single-center, retrospective chart review evaluated patients receiving IV-NAC for acetaminophen toxicity from August 2006 to August 2008. Charts were reviewed for prescribing practices, dosing errors, and clinical outcomes. RESULTS: Among 70 patients who met inclusion criteria, 35 medication errors occurred, including 22 administration errors and 13 protocol initiation errors. The frequency of administration errors was 13.5 errors per 100 administration interventions. Loading dose errors were most common with 11 rate-related and 8 dose-related errors. Interruptions longer than 60 minutes occurred in only 3 patients. No adverse outcomes were associated with medication errors. The mean (SD) duration of therapy was 25.6 hours (n = 60 pts. [17.8], range 1-76.5), and mean length of stay was 2.99 days ([3.82], range 0.1-25.7). All patients with hepatotoxicity (aspartate aminotransferase >1000 units/L) due to acute acetaminophen toxicity had resolution of the toxicity and were successfully discharged. CONCLUSIONS: This single intravenous bag protocol is effective and well tolerated, and there is infrequent interruption of therapy. The overall rate of administration errors is similar to that in reports on the FDA regimen; thus, our protocol may be an acceptable alternative.
Morphine-Induced Cardiogenic Shock
Authors: Feeney Colin , Ani Chizobam , Sharma Naini , Frohlich Tom 
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE: Although animal and human models suggest that direct suppression of myocardial contractility may occur with morphine administration, to our knowledge, clinical observation of this potentially important effect has not been reported. This case report presents a unique case of morphine-induced transient reversible cardiogenic shock. CASE SUMMARY: A 44-year-old woman with a history of hypertension, diabetes, and asthma presented with a 3-day history of epigastric pain. Initial investigation results revealed elevated serum lipase level and computed tomography imaging that was consistent with a diagnosis of mild acute pancreatitis. Intravenous fluids and morphine, via patient-controlled analgesia, were started and the patient was admitted. The next day, she developed cardiogenic shock with a globally reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 26% and was admitted to the intensive care unit. Morphine was discontinued and norepinephrine and naloxone were concurrently administered. Over the next 24 hours her clinical status improved, and an echocardiogram 29 hours after the initial echocardiogram showed normal LV function (LVEF 62%). DISCUSSION: To our knowledge, this represents the first reported case of clinically significant morphine-induced cardiogenic shock. An objective causality assessment using the Naranjo probability scale suggests that the cardiogenic shock was probably related to morphine. Other causes of shock were ruled out. Additionally, the fact that the transient nature of the observed LV dysfunction reversed with discontinuation of morphine and administration of naloxone provides further support, particularly with the evidence that opiates may depress cardiac myocytes and cardiac output in animal and human models. CONCLUSIONS: Opiates can cause severe LV dysfunction. Physicians should consider emergent evaluation for myocardial depression in patients who are receiving opioids and present with persistent hypotension or pulmonary edema without other known etiology.
Sexual Understanding and Development of Young People With Intellectual Disabilities: Mothers' Perspectives of Within-Family Context
Authors: Pownall Jaycee D. , Jahoda Andrew , Hastings Richard , Kerr Linda 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
The sexual development of young people with intellectual disabilities is a marker of their transition to adulthood and affects their sense of well being and identity. Cognitive impairments and a socially marginalized position increase dependence on their families to assist with sexual matters. In this study, the authors adopted a novel interpretive phenomenological analysis approach, asking 8 mothers to contrast their experience of supporting similarly aged siblings with and without intellectual disabilities. Acknowledgment of their nondisabled offspring's sexuality was demanded by increasing autonomy, whereas continuing dependence of the offspring with intellectual disabilities hindered mothers who were addressing this intensely private and sensitive issue with them. The topic of sexuality brought to the forefront mothers' fears about their offspring's ability to cope with the challenges of adulthood.
Subsequent Births in Families of Children With Disabilities: Using Demographic Data to Examine Parents' Reproductive Patterns
Authors: Burke Meghan M. , Urbano Richard C. , Hodapp Robert M. 
Published: May 2011

AbstractThe authors determined family reproductive patterns after the birth of a child with (vs. without) a disability. Using Tennessee birth records, the authors examined families of children with Down syndrome (N  =  1,123), spina bifida (N  =  368), and population group (N  =  734,189). Families of children with Down syndrome and with spina bifida were more likely to have subsequent children and larger family sizes than the population group. When a 1st-born target child was born, 28.8% of families had a 2nd child in the population group compared with 37.1% and 45.7% when the child had spina bifida or Down syndrome, respectively. Families of children with disabilities were more likely to have subsequent children regardless of maternal race, marital status, and educational level.
Modeling the Social Determinants of Caregiver Burden Among Families of Children With Developmental Disabilities
Authors: McManus Beth M. , Carle Adam , Acevedo-Garcia Dolores , Ganz Michael , Hauser-Cram Penny , McCormick Marie 
Published: May 2011

AbstractThis study described predictors of caregiver burden among parents of children with developmental disabilities. The sample, obtained from the 2005–2006 National Survey of Children With Special Health Care Needs, included 12,225 children, aged 5 to 17 years, with a developmental disability. Structural equation modeling assessed the relationships between the factors of Caregiver Burden, Ease of Accessing and Navigating the Health Care System, and Unmet Health Care Needs. Caregiver burden was inversely associated with ease of accessing and navigating the health care system (β  =  −0.094, SE (β)  =  0.045) and positively associated with unmet health care needs (β  =  0.428, SE (β)  =  0.036). Parents of poor, minority, and uninsured children experienced significantly greater caregiver burden. Bolstering services, particularly for vulnerable families, may ameliorate caregiver burden.
Type V collagen-induced upregulation of capn2 (large subunit of m-calpain) gene expression and DNA fragmentation in 8701-BC breast cancer cells
Authors: Luparello Claudio , Sirchia Rosalia 
Published: May 2011

Abstract
Type V collagen is known to be over-deposited in the stroma of ductal infiltrating carcinomas of the breast. When used as a substrate, type V collagen restrains growth and invasion, and affects gene expression of 8701-BC ductal infiltrating carcinomas cells. Here we supplement existing data by demonstrating type V collagen dependent upregulation of capn2 gene expression in 8701-BC cells through differential display-PCR and Western blot assays. Furthermore, we suggest that our data obtained by centrifugal sedimentation and electrophoresis strongly suggest a correlation between calpain overproduction and DNA fragmentation, since the incubation with calpain inhibitor partly reverts the latter.
Review of Different Quantification Methods for the Diagnosis of Digital Vascular Abnormalities in Hand‐arm Vibration Syndrome
Authors: Mahbub MH , Harada Noriaki 
Published: May 2011

Review of Different Quantification Methods for the Diagnosis of Digital Vascular Abnormalities in Hand‐arm Vibration Syndrome: MH Mahbub, et al. Department of Hygiene, Yamaguchi University Graduate School of Medicine—ObjectiveThis study was undertaken to review the diagnostic ability of different quantification methods in the assessment of vibration‐induced white inger (VWF), the typical clinical manifestation of vascular injuries in Hand‐arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS).MethodsA literature search of original and major review articles related to the Quantification techniques for diagnosing vascular injuries in HAVS was performed. Relevant data from the publications were extracted and included in this study for reporting and discussion.ResultsFew studies were available to substantiate the diagnostic techniques using the nail press test and nailfold capillaroscopy. Also, few studies were found to conclusively demonstrate the diagnostic ability using thermometry and thermography incorporated with cold provocation. Some recent reports raised the question regarding the diagnostic ability of inger plethysmography; but by virtue of its comparable assessment parameters and better diagnostic performance, plethysmography appears to be a suitable diagnostic method. In noninvasive Quantification of vascular injuries, diagnostic techniques like laser Doppler perfusion imaging and nailfold capillaroscopy require further evaluation in future studies.ConclusionsFor a reliable objective diagnosis of VWF at present, Quantification of vascular responses using a test battery including established methods like thermometry or thermography and strain gauge plethysmography appears to be useful.
Pulmonary Toxicity Following an Intratracheal Instillation of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticle Agglomerates
Authors: Morimoto Yasuo , Hirohashi Masami , Ogami Akira , Oyabu Takako , Myojo Toshihiko , Hashiba Masayoshi , Mizuguchi Yohei , Kambara Tatsunori , Lee Byeong Woo , Kuroda Etsushi , Tanaka Isamu 
Published: May 2011

Pulmonary Toxicity Following an Intratracheal Instillation of Nickel Oxide Nanoparticle Agglomerates: Yasuo Morimoto, et al. Institute of Industrial Ecological Sciences, University of Occupational and Environmental Health, Japan—ObjectiveWe examined the pulmonary toxicity of nickel oxide nanoparticle agglomerates in the rat lung following an intratracheal instillation.MethodsThe weighted average surface primary diameter of nickel oxide nanoparticles was 8.41 nm, and the count median diameter of nickel oxide nanoparticle agglomerates suspended in saline was 1.34 µm. Male Wistar rats were exposed to 1 mg (3.3 mg/kg) of nickel oxide nanoparticles intratracheally. The control group Received intratracheal instillation of saline. Rats were dissected 3 days, 1 wk, 1 mo, 3 mo, and 6 mo after the instillation. Cytokine‐induced neutrophil chemoattractant (CINC)2αβ in the lung tissue was determined by quantitative measurement of protein by ELISA.ResultsThe total cell count in bronchoalveolar lavage luid (BALF) was increased persistently from 3 days to 6 mo. The neutrophil counts in BALF were also increased at 3days, 1 wk, 3 mo, and 6 mo. In the lung tissue, iniltration of mainly neutrophils and alveolar macrophages was observed in alveoli from 3 days to 6 mo. The CINC‐2αβ concentration was elevated from 3 days to 6 mo in the lung tissue.ConclusionsThese results showed that micron‐sized nickel oxide nanoparticle agglomerates also induced a persistent inlammatory response.
Brief Morning Exposure to Bright Light Improves Subjective Symptoms and Performance in Nurses with Rapidly Rotating Shifts
Authors: Tanaka Katsutoshi , Takahashi Masaya , Tanaka Mika , Takanao Tomoki , Nishinoue Nao , Kaku Akiko , Kato Noritada , Tagaya Hirokuni , Miyaoka Hitoshi 
Published: May 2011

Brief Morning Exposure to Bright Light Improves Subjective Symptoms and Performance in Nurses with Rapidly Rotating Shifts: Katsutoshi Tanaka, et al. Department of Occupational Mental Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kitasato University—ObjectiveTo investigate whether or not brief bright light (BL) exposure on workday mornings can improve health, performance and safety in nurses with rapidly rotating shifts.MethodsWe conducted a randomized crossover study involving registered nurses at a teaching hospital working a two‐shift system including the night shift. Participants were instructed to expose themselves to BL for 10 min on workday mornings.ResultsA total of 61 participants were enrolled in the present study. Thirty‐one participants Received BL exposure in the irst month, and the other 30 Received it in the second month. Significant improvements were noted in the BL periods compared with the non‐BL periods for self‐assessed sleepiness at 10:00 on day‐shift days evaluated using the Karolinska Sleepiness Scale, self‐assessment of night sleep for day‐shift days using the Visual Analogue Scale and for fatigue assessed using the Checklist Individual Strength Questionnaire. The estimated mean difference for each scale (95% conidence interval) was –0.55 (–0.91, –0.20), 0.37 (0.04, 0.70) and –2.13 (–3.78, –0.48), respectively. Mean response time evaluated using the psychomotor vigilance task test (PVT) showed significant improvement in the BL periods compared with the non‐BL periods. No statistically significant differences were observed for sleepiness at 14:00, depression, number of PVT lapses or frequency of perceived adverse events and near misses.ConclusionOur indings suggest that brief BL exposure on mornings preceding a day shift is effective in improving sleepiness and performance during day‐shift work, subjective nighttime sleep on day‐shift days, and perceived fatigue for the preceding two weeks in rapidly rotating shift nurses.
A Microvisual Study of the Displacement of Viscous Oil by Polymer Solutions
Authors: Buchgraber M.. , Clemens T.. , Castanier L. M. , Kovscek A. R. 
Published: May 2011

Summary
Of the various enhanced-oil-recovery (EOR) polymer formulations, newly developed associative polymers show special promise. We investigate pore and pore-network scales because polymer solutions ultimately flow through the pore space of rock to displace oil. We conduct and monitor optically water/oil and polymer-solution/oil displacements in a 2D etched-silicon micromodel. The micromodel has the geometrical and topological characteristics of sandstone. Conventional hydrolyzed-polyacrylamide solutions and newly developed associative-polymer solutions with concentrations ranging from 500 to 2,500 ppm were tested. The crude oil had a viscosity of 450 cp at test conditions. Our results provide new insight regarding the ability of polymer to stabilize multiphase flow. At zero and low polymer concentrations, relatively long and wide fingers of injectant developed, leading to early water break-through and low recoveries. At increased polymer concentration, a much greater number of relatively fine fingers formed. The width-to-length ratio of these fingers was quite small, and the absolute length of fingers decreased. At a larger scale of observation, the displacement front appears to be stabilized; hence, recovery efficiency improved remarkably. Above a concentration of 1,500 ppm, plugging of the micromodel by polymer and lower oil recovery was observed for both polymer types. For tertiary polymer injection that begins at breakthrough of water, the severe fingers resulting from water injection are modified significantly. Fingers become wider and grow in the direction normal to flow as polymer solution replaces water. Apparently, improved sweep efficiency of viscous oils is possible (at this scale of investigation) even after waterflooding. The associative- and conventional-polymer solutions improved oil recovery by approximately the same amount. The associative polymers, however, showed more-stable displacement fronts in comparison to conventional-polymer solutions.
Chemical Degradation of Polyacrylamide Polymers Under Alkaline Conditions
Authors: Levitt David B. , Pope Gary A. , Jouenne Stephane 
Published: May 2011

Summary
Hydrolysis of polyacrylamide (PAM) -based polymers is rapid and extensive under the alkaline conditions typical of alkaline/ surfactant-polymer (ASP) flooding. Even at room temperature, significant hydrolysis occurs within 1 to 2 months in the presence of sodium carbonate. While this implies that polymers used in ASP floods will rapidly become susceptible to precipitation with divalent cations, in most cases the alkali present will be the most sensitive component to precipitation, so this may be a moot point. Also, autoretarding kinetics under alkaline conditions limit hydrolysis at 100°C, whereas complete hydrolysis occurs under neutral conditions. Furthermore, in-situ hydrolysis of initially unhydrolyzed PAM is proposed as a promising strategy for ASP floods because the injectivity of the unhyrolyzed PAM will be greater than that of hydrolyzed PAM (HPAM) because of its lower initial viscosity. The lower initial viscosity is not a disadvantage because once it has been hydrolyzed in-situ, its viscosity will increase.