bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Treatment of adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma: past, present, and future
Authors: Ishitsuka Kenji , Tamura Kazuo 
Published: February 2008

AbstractAdult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a peripheral T‐cell malignancy caused by human T‐cell lymphotrophic virus type I. Clinical manifestations of ATLL range from smoldering to chronic, lymphoma and acute. Patients with acute and lymphoma type ATLL require therapeutic intervention. Conventional chemotherapeutic regimens used against other malignant lymphoma have been administered to ATLL patients, but the therapeutic outcomes of acute and lymphoma type ATLL remain very poor. Promising results of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (SCT) for ATLL patients have recently been reported and the treatment outcome might be improved for some ATLL patients. Besides conventional chemotherapy and SCT, interferon, zidovudine, arsenic trioxide, targeted therapy against surface molecule on ATLL cells, retinoid derivatives, and bortezomib have been administered to ATLL patients in pilot or phase I/II studies. Further studies are required to confirm the clinical benefits of these novel therapeutics. This article reviews the current status and future directions of ATLL treatment.
Clinical impact of nucleophosmin mutations and Flt3 internal tandem duplications in patients older than 60 yr with acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Scholl Sebastian , Theuer Claudia , Scheble Veit , Kunert Christa , Heller Anita , Mügge Lars‐Olof , Fricke Hans‐Joerg , Höffken Klaus , Wedding Ulrich 
Published: February 2008

AbstractBackground:  Nucleophosmin (NPM1) and Flt3 internal tandem duplications (Flt3‐ITD mutations) represent the most frequent molecular aberrations in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML). While NPM1 mutations are associated with favourable prognosis in younger AML patients, Flt3‐ITD mutations reflect an unfavourable prognostic factor in these patients. So far, especially NPM1 mutations have not yet been evaluated exclusively in older patients.Patients and methods:  We retrospectively analysed the prevalence of NPM1 and Flt3‐ITD mutations and its association with complete remission (CR), and survival in 99 elderly patients (median age 71 yr, range 60–85 yr) newly diagnosed for AML. Primary treatment approach was curative in 54, and palliative in 38 patients, while seven patients received best supportive care only. The mean follow‐up of surviving patients was 600 d.Results:  Sixty‐seven patients were tested negative for NPM1 and Flt3‐ITD mutations (group 1), 16 patients carried only a NPM1 mutation (group 2) and nine patients had only a Flt3‐ITD mutation (group 3) while additional seven patients were positive for both aberrations (group 4). We can demonstrate a significant higher rate of CR comparing wildtype vs. NPM1 positive patients (40.5% for group 1 vs. 80.0% for group 2, P = 0.03) for patients receiving curative therapy. Interestingly, there is no significant difference in overall survival between group 1 and group 2 (Log‐rank test P = 0.22, median 440 d vs. 1125 d). In contrast, patients carrying a Flt3‐ITD mutation had a significant worse overall survival compared to wildtype patients (P = 0.03, median 210 d for group 3 + 4 vs. 634 d for group 1 + 2) while no difference of CR rate could be observed (42.8% vs. 48.9%, P = 0.91).Conclusion:  As elderly but medically fit patients with AML carrying a NPM1 mutation have a high CR rate, age itself should not be a barrier for induction treatment. However, new therapeutic concepts of postremission therapy (e.g. allogeneic stem cell transplantation after dose‐reduced conditioning) should be considered for these patients in first CR.
Leukemia‐associated antigens as target structures for a specific immunotherapy in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Greiner Jochen , Schmitt Michael 
Published: February 2008

AbstractSpecific immunotherapies for CML patients targeting T cell antigens might eliminate residual CML cells after chemotherapy, in combination with imatinib or other tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and might enhance a specific graft versus leukemia effect after allogeneic stem cell transplantation without aggravating the graft versus host disease. For an effective specific immunotherapy in CML, the use of leukemia‐associated antigens (LAAs) with an optimal expression pattern is required. In this work, we review known LAAs which are able to induce specific CD8 positive T cell responses and which are appropriate target structures for immunological targeting of CML cells. Moreover, an overview on LAA‐targeted immunotherapeutic approaches for CML patients are given.
Detection of alpha‐thalassemia‐1 Southeast Asian type using real‐time gap‐PCR with SYBR Green1 and high resolution melting analysis
Authors: Pornprasert Sakorn , Phusua Arunee , Suanta Sudjai , Saetung Rattika , Sanguansermsri Torpong 
Published: February 2008

Abstractα‐Thalassemia‐1 Southeast Asian (SEA) type is the most common genetic disorder in the Asian population. Couples who are both carriers have a 25% chance of conceiving Bart’s hydrops fetalis. Therefore, results from carrier screening and prenatal diagnosis frequently need to be available rapidly. A rapid technique for diagnosis of α‐thalassemia‐1 SEA type was implemented. The technique used is based on real‐time gap‐PCR and high resolution melting (HRM) analysis of the amplified fragment using the Rotor‐Gene 6000™. The DNA samples used for amplification were obtained from whole blood, cord blood, and chorionic villus sampling (CVS). With this method, the α‐thalassemia‐1 SEA allele can be easily distinguished from wild type α‐globin gene allele. The real‐time gap‐PCR and HRM analysis offers additional benefits including minimal labor, rapid turnaround time, and a decreased risk of PCR carryover contamination. It is cost‐effective and safe, does not require fluorescently labeled probe and hazardous chemicals. Moreover, it is accurate showing 100% concordance with conventional gap‐PCR analysis.
Aortas Isolated from Sinoaortic‐Denervated Rats Exhibit Rhythmic Contractions That Are Regulated by Pharmacologically Distinct Calcium Sources
Authors: Rocha Matheus L. , Bendhack Lusiane M. 
Published: February 2008

Abstract: Sinoaortic denervation is characterized by arterial pressure lability, without sustained hypertension. Aortas isolated from rats with sinoaortic denervation present rhythmic contractions. We studied the participation of distinct Ca2+sources in the maintenance of the oscillations. Three days after the surgeries, aortic rings were placed in an organ chamber, and the incidence of aortas presenting rhythmic contractions was measured. Specific drugs were employed to analyse the participation of the Ca2+released from the sarcoplasmic reticulum [2‐APB (diphenylborinic acid 2‐aminoethyl ester), thapsigargin and ryanodine] and external Ca2+entry [Bay K 8644, verapamil and DMB (dimethylbenzyl amiloride)] on the rhythmic contractions. Additionally, we verified the effects of chloride channel blocker NPPB [5‐nitro‐2‐(3‐phenylpropylamino)‐benzoic acid] on the maintenance of the rhythmic contractions. Under phenylephrine stimulus, sinoaortic‐denervated rat aortas exhibited rhythmic contractions in the frequency of 4.5 ± 0.50 cycles/min. and an amplitude of 0.465 ± 0.05 g. 2‐APB, thapsigargin and ryanodine inhibited the rhythmic contractions. Bay K 8644 increased the oscillations, reaching maximum values with a concentration of 50 nM (18.5 ± 2.5 cycles/min.). The rhythmic contractions were inhibiting by verapamil and Ca2+‐free solution. DMB and NPPB did not alter the oscillations. In conclusion, we observed that aorta isolated from sinoaortic‐denervated rats present rhythmic contractions. Moreover, drugs that impaired intracellular Ca2+release from sarcoplasmic reticulum interrupted the oscillations. The oscillations also depend on the extracellular Ca2+entry through L‐type Ca2+.
Importance of and Satisfaction with Sex Among Men and Women Worldwide: Results of the Global Better Sex Survey
Authors: Mulhall John , King Rosie , Glina Sidney , Hvidsten Kyle 
Published: February 2008

ABSTRACT

Introduction
It is now increasingly recognized that sexual health is important to overall good health and well-being.

Aim
The Global Better Sex Survey (GBSS) explored the sexual aspirations and unmet needs of men and women worldwide.

Main Outcome Measures
Participant responses to survey questions.

Methods
Data were collected during 2005 in 27 countries by phone, door-to-door, and street-intercept interview. Data were weighted by demographic characteristics to accurately reflect the general population of each country.

Results
Of the 12,563 respondents (men=6,291, women=6,272), 46% of men and 48% of women were younger than 40 years, 41% were 40–59 years, and 11% were 60 years or older. Nearly all men (91%) and women (94%) were married, living with a partner, or in a relationship. All aspects of sex (intercourse, foreplay, orgasm, attraction to partner) were important to men and women. Nearly half (48%) of men surveyed reported some degree of erectile dysfunction (ED). A significant proportion of men (65%) were not very satisfied with their erection hardness (63% of women were not very satisfied with their partner's erection hardness). An association existed between satisfaction with erection hardness and satisfaction with sex life, love and romance, and overall health. Only 7% of men reported using a prescription medication for ED. However, 74% of men were willing to take medication to improve their erections if they thought they had ED; 64% of women would support such a decision.

Conclusions
The GBSS reports the sexual needs and desires of men and women worldwide. Erectile function and the effect of ED on aspects of the sexual experience emerged as the most pressing concerns among male participants.
Association of vitamin D receptor gene 3′‐variants with Hashimoto's thyroiditis in the Croatian population
Authors: Štefanić M. , Papić S. , Suver M. , Glavaš‐Obrovac L. , Karner I. 
Published: February 2008

SummaryHashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is the most frequent autoimmune thyroid disease with strong genetic background. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) endocrine system affects immunosuppressive, regulatory and tolerogenic decisions required for induction and maintenance of peripheral immune tolerance. With respect to the biological function of the VDR and functionally plausible gene‐expression data, we sought to test whether particular 3′‐restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLP) and haplotypes previously directly or indirectly associated with VDR mRNA 3′‐allelic imbalance phenotype and differences in total VDR mRNA expression are implicated in HT susceptibility. Thus, 145 Croatian HT patients and 145 age‐, sex‐ and ethnically matched euthyroid controls were genotyped for VDR rs1544410 (BsmI), rs7975232 (ApaI) and rs731236 (TaqI) polymorphisms by polymerase chain reaction‐RFLP method. Covariate‐adjusted single‐locus and haplotype–phenotype regression analyses were performed. Permutation corrections (Pc) and Akaike Information Criteria were used for model comparisons. The best‐fit [global Pc = 7.2 × 10−4]BsmI‐TaqI BT haplotype was found significantly more often in subjects without HT [12.2% vs. 3.7%; odds ratio (OR, 95% confidence intervals) = 0.28 (0.14–0.56), Pc = 8 × 10−4], whereas the bT haplotype was significantly more frequent in individuals with HT [45.7% vs. 61.8%; OR = 1.91 (1.37–2.65), Pc = 4 × 10−4]. Two extended BsmI‐ApaI‐TaqI RFLP haplotypes, the common baT [35.7 vs. 47.3%, OR = 1.63 (1.17–2.27), Pc = 0.012] and rare BaT variants [6.5 vs. 1.2%, OR = 0.17 (0.06–0.55), Pc = 1.2 × 10−3] were associated with HT, representing predisposing and protective haplotypes, respectively. In single‐RFLP association analyses, only rs1544410 polymorphism was associated with HT phenotype (allelic Pc = 0.0078) and appeared to function under the recessive model, with decreased risk of HT among the BB homozygotes [OR = 0.39 (0.21–0.7), Pc = 0.0052] when compared to the reference b+‐genotypes. These data suggest that common haplotypic variants within the VDR gene 3′‐region previously linked to VDR mRNA expression and allelic imbalance could be associated with HT in the general population, and thus, may be involved in the pathogenesis of HT.
A possible mechanism for non‐replication of allelic association between a single nucleotide polymorphism of the human beta T‐cell receptor and autoimmune diseases
Authors: Tripputi P. , Bianchi S. , Fedele L. 
Published: February 2008

SummaryGene polymorphisms, in particular single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), have been associated to multifactorial diseases such as cancer, inflammation and autoimmunity. Indeed for some autoimmune diseases, it has been possible to identify critical residues that play a major role in susceptibility to diseases. The association of a common T/C polymorphism in the promoter region of the beta 2 constant chain of the T‐cell receptor with autoimmune diseases, such as insulin‐dependent diabetes, autoimmune hepatitis, IgA nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, Graves’ disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis, was described in the 1990s. These reports have not been confirmed in the last few years. We also failed in a previous study to detect any difference between 70 normal subjects and 70 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis; however, we found a difference in allelic frequency between males and females. This finding led us to make an allele frequency study of this single nucleotide polymorphism between sexes in a new series of patients. We studied 165 subjects, 80 males and 85 females, and we found a significant difference between sexes especially for the CC homozygous genotype: 34% of females vs. 14% of males (P = 0.008). If the higher frequency of CC homozygous genotype (that is associated with an increased risk of autoimmune diseases) in females would be confirmed in normal population, this could be an explanation of the controversial results obtained by association studies made between this SNP and autoimmune diseases.
The genetic differences with whole genome linkage disequilibrium mapping between responder and non‐responder in interferon‐α and ribavirin combined therapy for chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Chen P.‐J. , Hwang Y. , Lin C. G.‐J. , Wu Y.‐J. , Wu L. S.‐H. 
Published: February 2008

SummaryInterferon‐α and ribavirin combined therapy has been a mainstream treatment for hepatitis C infection. The efficacy of this combined treatment is around 30% to 60%, and the factors affecting the responsiveness are still poorly defined. Our study is intended to investigate the genetic differences between responder and non‐responder patients. The genome‐wide linkage disequilibrium screening for loci associated with genetic difference between two patient groups was conducted by using 382 autosomal short tandem repeat (STR) markers involving 92 patients. We have identified 19 STR markers displaying different allele frequencies between the two patient groups. In addition, based on their genomic location and biological function, we selected the CD81 and IL15 genes to perform single nucleotide polymorphism genotyping. In conclusion, this study may provide a new approach for identifying the associated polymorphisms and the susceptible loci for interferon‐α and ribavirin combined therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C.
Mapping Nursing Intervention Data Into the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC): Process and Rules
Authors: Moorhead Sue , Delaney Connie 
Published: February 2008

TOPIC. Uniform language in nursing is needed to clearly depict the contributions of nursing in the healthcare arena but little data related to nursing interventions and patient outcomes are standardized. PURPOSE. To investigate the feasibility of mapping nonstandardized nursing interventions into standardized language using the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC). SOURCE. Data from a Midwest community hospital's Computerized information system. CONCLUSIONS. Results demonstrate that nonstandardized nursing orders can be mapped into standardized language using the NIC.
Effects of combined strength and sprint training on regulation of muscle contraction at the whole‐muscle and single‐fibre levels in elite master sprinters
Authors: Cristea A. , Korhonen M. T. , Häkkinen K. , Mero A. , Alén M. , Sipilä S. , Viitasalo J. T. , Koljonen M. J. , Suominen H. , Larsson L. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractAim:  This study aims at examining the effects of progressive strength and sprint training on regulation of muscle contraction at the whole‐muscle and single‐fibre levels in older sprint‐trained athletes.Methods:  Eleven men (52–78 years) were randomized to a training (EX, n = 7) or control (CTRL, n = 4) group. EX participated in a 20‐week programme that combined sprint training with heavy and explosive strength exercises, while CTRL maintained their usual run‐based training schedules.Results:  EX improved maximal isometric and dynamic leg strength, explosive jump performance and force production in running. Specific tension and maximum shortening velocity of single fibres from the vastus lateralis were not altered in EX or CTRL. Fibre type and myosin heavy chain isoform distributions remained unchanged in the two groups. There was a general increase in fibre areas in EX, but this was significant only in IIa fibres. The 10% increase in squat jump in EX was accompanied by a 9% increase in the integrated EMG (iEMG) of the leg extensors but the 21–40% increases in isometric and dynamic strength were not paralleled by changes in iEMG.Conclusion:  Adding strength training stimulus to the training programme improved maximal, explosive and sport‐specific force production in elite master sprinters. These improvements were primarily related to hypertrophic muscular adaptations.
Has Fiscal Federalism Worked for Macroeconomic Purposes? The Chinese Experience 1994–2003
Authors: He Liping 
Published: February 2008

AbstractChina's central government undertook major tax regime reform in 1994 that was characterized by fiscal federalism. In hindsight, this reform might be viewed as being more emphatic towards the revenue side than the expenditure side. The reform has resulted in certain success both for revenue shifting and inflation fighting purposes. However, the reform and its subsequent follow‐ups have not addressed some fundamental issues pertaining to China's government finance system, such as the overhauling of the function of government finance and redrawing lines between the central and regional governments with regard to their fiscal responsibilities and duties. Moreover, fiscal federalism might have actually increased fiscal burden on the economy, especially on domestic sectors of the economy. However, coupled with enhanced policy support for China's external development, fiscal federalism might have helped to further accelerate resource shifts toward the external sector, thus resulting in an unprecedented rapid expansion in China's exports since the mid‐1990s.
A Counterfactual Analysis on Unlimited Surplus Labor in Rural China
Authors: Cai Fang , Wang Meiyan 
Published: February 2008

AbstractUsing a counterfactual analysis approach, the present paper examines a host of conventional wisdoms relating to issues of farmer, the countryside and agriculture, which are believed to be all originated from the existence of mass surplus laborers in China. When analyzing various sources of statistics, evidence shows that there is no longer a large pool of surplus laborers in rural China as most people believe. Based on this counterfactual result, all related events, such as the direction of agricultural technological changes, the level of comparative productivity of agricultural labor, and the degree of rural‐urban income gap must be reconsidered.
Is China's Economic Growth Extraordinar or Mediocre? The Role of the Exchange Rate
Authors: Feng Yun , Wu Chongfeng 
Published: February 2008

AbstractResults derived from evaluations using different measures for China's economic growth are divergent, especially when the RMB exchange rate has experienced large depreciation. Focusing on the changes in the RMB exchange rate matching the demands of economic development, we offer some plausible explanations for the variations in the evaluation results. The significant gaps between different economic performance evaluation results before the mid‐1990s, and evidence from international comparisons of factor productivity indicate that the quality of economic growth in China is different from that of other economies. Evaluation of economic development should take into account both quantitative expansion and qualitative improvement. From this perspective, evaluation results indicate qualitative improvement in the Chinese economy after the mid‐1990s.
Caspase‐3 Activation and DNA Damage in Pig Skin Organ Culture After Solar Irradiation
Authors: Bacqueville Daniel , Mavon Alain 
Published: February 2008

AbstractIn the present study, a convenient and easy‐to‐handle skin organ culture was developed from domestic pig ears using polycarbonate Transwell® culture inserts in 12‐well plate. This alternative model was then tested for its suitability in analyzing the short‐term effects of a single solar radiation dose (from 55 to 275 kJ·m−2). Differentiation of the pig skin was maintained for up to 48 h in culture, and its morphology was similar to that of fresh human skin. Solar irradiation induced a significant release of the cytosolic enzymes lactate dehydrogenase and extracellular signal‐related kinase 2 protein in the culture medium 24 h after exposure. These photocytotoxic effects were associated with the formation of sunburn cells, thymine dimers and DNA strand breaks in both the epidermis and dermis. Interestingly, cell death was dose dependent and associated with p53 protein upregulation and strong caspase‐3 activation in the basal epidermis. None of these cellular responses was observed in non‐irradiated skin. Finally, topical application of a broad‐spectrum UVB + A sunfilter formulation afforded efficient photoprotection in irradiated explants. Thus, the ex vivo pig ear skin culture may be a useful tool in the assessment of solar radiation‐induced DNA damage and apoptosis, and for evaluating the efficacy of sunscreen formulations.
Experience with sodium fluorescein flow cytometry in the determination of red cell volume
Authors: SLIGHT R. D. , FERGUSON R. , STIRLING D. , McCLELLAND D. B. L. , MANKAD P. S. 
Published: February 2008

SummarySodium fluorescein flow cytometry for the calculation of red cell volume is an exciting proposition in that the repeatability of the technique in a short time frame should allow for applications such as the measurement of surgical red cell volume loss. Our results found that the rapid decay in fluorescence negated the usefulness of this technique as currently described. However, further investigation into the behaviour of the sodium fluorescein labelled red blood cells may allow for the mathematical correction of the fluorescent red cell population prior to red cell volume calculation.