bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Prion diseases are efficiently transmitted by blood transfusion in sheep
Authors: Houston Fiona , McCutcheon Sandra , Goldmann Wilfred , Chong Angela , Foster James , Sisó Silvia , González Lorenzo , Jeffrey Martin , Hunter Nora 
Published: July 2008

Abstract
The emergence of variant Creutzfeld-Jakob disease, following on from the bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) epidemic, led to concerns about the potential risk of iatrogenic transmission of disease by blood transfusion and the introduction of costly control measures to protect blood supplies. We previously reported preliminary data demonstrating the transmission of BSE and natural scrapie by blood transfusion in sheep. The final results of this experiment, reported here, give unexpectedly high transmission rates by transfusion of 36% for BSE and 43% for scrapie. A proportion of BSE-infected tranfusion recipients (3 of 8) survived for up to 7 years without showing clinical signs of disease. The majority of transmissions resulted from blood collected from donors at more than 50% of the estimated incubation period. The high transmission rates and relatively short and consistent incubation periods in clinically positive recipients suggest that infectivity titers in blood were substantial and/or that blood transfusion is an efficient method of transmission. This experiment has established the value of using sheep as a model for studying transmission of variant Creutzfeld-Jakob disease by blood products in humans.
Population-based estimate of sibling risk for preterm birth, preterm premature rupture of membranes, placental abruption and pre-eclampsia
Authors: Plunkett Jevon , Borecki Ingrid , Morgan Thomas , Stamilio David , Muglia Louis J 
Published: July 2008

Abstract

Background
Adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth, preeclampsia and placental abruption, are common, with acute and long-term complications for both the mother and infant. Etiologies underlying such adverse outcomes are not well understood. As maternal and fetal genetic factors may influence these outcomes, we estimated the magnitude of familial aggregation as one index of possible heritable contributions.
Using the Missouri Department of Health's maternally-linked birth certificate database, we performed a retrospective population-based cohort study of births (1989–1997), designating an individual born from an affected pregnancy as the proband for each outcome studied. We estimated the increased risk to siblings compared to the population risk, using the sibling risk ratio, λs, and sibling-sibling odds ratio (sib-sib OR), for the adverse pregnancy outcomes of preterm birth, preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM), placental abruption, and pre-eclampsia.

Results
Risk to siblings of an affected individual was elevated above the population prevalence of a given disorder, as indicated by λS (λS (95% CI): 4.3 (4.0–4.6), 8.2 (6.5–9.9), 4.0 (2.6–5.3), and 4.5 (4.4–4.8), for preterm birth, PPROM, placental abruption, and pre-eclampsia, respectively). Risk to siblings of an affected individual was similarly elevated above that of siblings of unaffected individuals, as indicated by the sib-sib OR (sib-sib OR adjusted for known risk factors (95% CI): 4.2 (3.9–4.5), 9.6 (7.6–12.2), 3.8 (2.6–5.5), 8.1 (7.5–8.8) for preterm birth, PPROM, placental abruption, and pre-eclampsia, respectively).

Conclusion
These results suggest that the adverse pregnancy outcomes of preterm birth, PPROM, placental abruption, and pre-eclampsia aggregate in families, which may be explained in part by genetics.
WildSilkbase: An EST database of wild silkmoths
Authors: Arunkumar KP , Tomar Archana , Daimon Takaaki , Shimada Toru , Nagaraju J 
Published: July 2008

Abstract

Background
Functional genomics has particular promise in silkworm biology for identifying genes involved in a variety of biological functions that include: synthesis and secretion of silk, sex determination pathways, insect-pathogen interactions, chorionogenesis, molecular clocks. Wild silkmoths have hardly been the subject of detailed scientific investigations, owing largely to non-availability of molecular and genetic data on these species. As a first step, in the present study we generated large scale expressed sequence tags (EST) in three economically important species of wild silkmoths. In order to make these resources available for the use of global scientific community, an EST database called 'WildSilkbase' was developed.

Description
WildSilkbase is a catalogue of ESTs generated from several tissues at different developmental stages of 3 economically important saturniid silkmoths, an Indian golden silkmoth, Antheraea assama, an Indian tropical tasar silkmoth, A. mylitta and eri silkmoth, Samia cynthia ricini. Currently the database is provided with 57,113 ESTs which are clustered and assembled into 4,019 contigs and 10,019 singletons. Data can be browsed and downloaded using a standard web browser. Users can search the database either by BLAST query, keywords or Gene Ontology query. There are options to carry out searches for species, tissue and developmental stage specific ESTs in BLAST page. Other features of the WildSilkbase include cSNP discovery, GO viewer, homologue finder, SSR finder and links to all other related databases. The WildSilkbase is freely available from http://www.cdfd.org.in/wildsilkbase/.

Conclusion
A total of 14,038 putative unigenes was identified in 3 species of wild silkmoths. These genes provide important resources to gain insight into the functional and evolutionary study of wild silkmoths. We believe that WildSilkbase will be extremely useful for all those researchers working in the areas of comparative genomics, functional genomics and molecular evolution in general, and gene discovery, gene organization, transposable elements and genome variability of insect species in particular.
Laminin enhances the growth of human neural stem cells in defined culture media
Authors: Hall Peter E , Lathia Justin D , Caldwell Maeve A , ffrench-Constant Charles 
Published: July 2008

Abstract

Background
Human neural stem cells (hNSC) have the potential to provide novel cell-based therapies for neurodegenerative conditions such as multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. In order to realise this goal, protocols need to be developed that allow for large quantities of hNSC to be cultured efficiently. As such, it is important to identify factors which enhance the growth of hNSC. In vivo, stem cells reside in distinct microenvironments or niches that are responsible for the maintenance of stem cell populations. A common feature of niches is the presence of the extracellular matrix molecule, laminin. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of exogenous laminin on hNSC growth.

Results
To measure hNSC growth, we established culture conditions using B27-supplemented medium that enable neurospheres to grow from human neural cells plated at clonal densities. Limiting dilution assays confirmed that neurospheres were derived from single cells at these densities. Laminin was found to increase hNSC numbers as measured by this neurosphere formation. The effect of laminin was to augment the proliferation/survival of the hNSC, rather than promoting the undifferentiated state. In agreement, apoptosis was reduced in dissociated neurospheres by laminin in an integrin β1-dependent manner.

Conclusion
The addition of laminin to the culture medium enhances the growth of hNSC, and may therefore aid their large-scale production.
Podocyte specific knock out of selenoproteins does not enhance nephropathy in streptozotocin diabetic C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Blauwkamp Marsha N , Yu Jingcheng , Schin MaryLee A , Burke Kathleen A , Berry Marla J , Carlson Bradley A , Brosius Frank C , Koenig Ronald J 
Published: July 2008

Abstract

Background
Selenoproteins contain selenocysteine (Sec), commonly considered the 21st genetically encoded amino acid. Many selenoproteins, such as the glutathione peroxidases and thioredoxin reductases, protect cells against oxidative stress by functioning as antioxidants and/or through their roles in the maintenance of intracellular redox balance. Since oxidative stress has been implicated in the pathogenesis of diabetic nephropathy, we hypothesized that selenoproteins protect against this complication of diabetes.

Methods
C57BL/6 mice that have a podocyte-specific inability to incorporate Sec into proteins (denoted in this paper as PodoTrsp-/-) and control mice were made diabetic by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin, or were injected with vehicle. Blood glucose, body weight, microalbuminuria, glomerular mesangial matrix expansion, and immunohistochemical markers of oxidative stress were assessed.

Results
After 3 and 6 months of diabetes, control and PodoTrsp-/- mice had similar levels of blood glucose. There were no differences in urinary albumin/creatinine ratios. Periodic acid-Schiff staining to examine mesangial matrix expansion also demonstrated no difference between control and PodoTrsp-/- mice after 6 months of diabetes, and there were no differences in immunohistochemical stainings for nitrotyrosine or NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, quinone 1.

Conclusion
Loss of podocyte selenoproteins in streptozotocin diabetic C57BL/6 mice does not lead to increased oxidative stress as assessed by nitrotyrosine and NAD(P)H dehydrogenase, quinone 1 immunostaining, nor does it lead to worsening nephropathy.
Development and evaluation of a cancer-related fatigue patient education program: protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Stuhldreher Nina , Reif Karl , de Vries Ulrike , Görres Stefan , Petermann Franz 
Published: July 2008

Abstract

Background
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) and its impact on patients' quality of life has been an increasing subject of research. However, in Germany there is a lack of evidence-based interventions consistent with the multidimensional character of fatigue. The objective of this study is to develop and evaluate a self-management program for disease-free cancer patients to cope with CRF.

Methods
Based on evidence extracted from a literature review, a curriculum for the self-management program was elaborated. The curriculum was reviewed and validated by an interdisciplinary expert group and the training-modules will be pretested with a small number of participants and discussed in terms of feasibility and acceptance.
To determine the efficacy of the program a randomised controlled trial will be carried out: 300 patients will be recruited from oncological practices in Bremen, Germany, and will be allocated to intervention or control group. The intervention group participates in the program, whereas the control group receives standard care and the opportunity to take part in the program after the end of the follow-up (waiting control group). Primary outcome measure is the level of fatigue, secondary outcome measures are quality of life, depression, anxiety, self-efficacy and physical activity. Data will be collected before randomisation, after intervention, and after a follow-up of 6 months.

Discussion
Because there are no comparable self-management programs for cancer survivors with fatigue, the development of the curriculum has been complex; therefore, the critical appraisal by the experts was an important step to validate the program and their contributions have been integrated into the curriculum. The experts appreciated the program as filling a gap in outpatient cancer care.
If the results of the evaluation prove to be satisfactory, the outpatient care of cancer patients can be broadened and supplemented.

Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials NCT00552552
A Genome-Wide Linkage Scan for Age at Menarche in Three Populations of European Descent
Authors: Anderson Carl A. , Zhu Gu , Falchi Mario , van den Berg Stéphanie M. , Treloar Susan A. , Spector Timothy D. , Martin Nicholas G. , Boomsma Dorret I. , Visscher Peter M. , Montgomery Grant W. 
Published: July 2008

Context: Age at menarche (AAM) is an important trait both biologically and socially, a clearly defined event in female pubertal development, and has been associated with many clinically significant phenotypes.
Objective: The objective of the study was to identify genetic loci influencing variation in AAM in large population-based samples from three countries.
Design/Participants: Recalled AAM data were collected from 13,697 individuals and 4,899 pseudoindependent sister-pairs from three different populations (Australia, The Netherlands, and the United Kingdom) by mailed questionnaire or interview. Genome-wide variance components linkage analysis was implemented on each sample individually and in combination.
Results: The mean, sd, and heritability of AAM across the three samples was 13.1 yr, 1.5 yr, and 0.69, respectively. No loci were detected that reached genome-wide significance in the combined analysis, but a suggestive locus was detected on chromosome 12 (logarithm of the odds = 2.0). Three loci of suggestive significance were seen in the U.K. sample on chromosomes 1, 4, and 18 (logarithm of the odds = 2.4, 2.2 and 3.2, respectively).
Conclusions: There was no evidence for common highly penetrant variants influencing AAM. Linkage and association suggest that one trait locus for AAM is located on chromosome 12, but further studies are required to replicate these results.
Aminoglycoside-Induced Vestibular Injury: Maintaining a Sense of Balance
Authors: Ariano Robert E , Zelenitsky Sheryl A , Kassum Diamond A 
Published: July 2008

Objective To describe the mechanism and risk factors for the development of aminoglycoside-induced vestibular injury and discuss their implications for therapeutic monitoring of aminoglycoside antibiotics. Data Sources: A MEDLINE search (1975–January 2008) was performed to identify literature on aminoglycoside-induced vestibular injury and risk factors associated with this outcome and their impact on therapeutic drug monitoring. Additional references were identified through review of bibliographies of identified articles. Study Selection And Data Extraction: Data on the mechanisms of vestibular toxicity and its development in association with aminoglycoside exposure were extracted from identified references. Data Synthesis: The mechanism leading to the development of irreversible vestibular injury from exposure to aminoglycosides appears to be through the excessive production of oxidative free radicals. This production and subsequent toxicity appears to be a time-dependent process and is unrelated to dose or serum concentration. For similarly designed studies, the pooled incidence of vestibular toxicity is 10.9% for gentamicin, 7.4% for amikacin, 3.5% for tobramycin, and 1.1% for netilmicin. Current evidence suggests that this form of drug toxicity is not restricted to traditionally dosed systemic therapy, since intraperitoneal administration, high-dose once-daily administration, topical inhalation, and eardrop administration have all been associated with the development of this adverse outcome. Conclusions: Given the lack of association between serum concentrations and vestibulotoxicity, it is imperative for the pharmacist to interview the patient and not focus solely on maintaining target range drug concentrations. Minimizing the duration of exposure to aminoglycosides is recommended to reduce the risk from this form of drug toxicity.
Formulary Forum: Ixabepilone: A New Antimitotic for the Treatment of Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Bhushan Shriya , Walko Christine M 
Published: July 2008

Objective: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of ixabepilone as a new antimitotic chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of breast cancer. Data Sources: Data were identified by searches of MEDLINE, PubMed, and American Society of Clinical Oncology abstracts from 1966 to March 2008, using the primary search terms ixabepilone, epothilones, BMS-247550, and breast cancer. Study Selection And Data Extraction: Phase 1, Phase 2, and Phase 3 clinical trials examining the safely and efficacy of ixabepilone and its place in cancer treatment were reviewed. Preference was given to large Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials in the breast cancer population. Manufacturer product information was used to supplement data lacking in published trials. Data Synthesis: Ixabepilone belongs to a novel class of drugs, the epothilones, which are nontaxano microtubule-stabilizing agents. Ixabepilone, in combination with capecitabine, has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for treatment in patients with metastatic or locally advanced breast cancer that progresses after anthracycline and taxane therapy, or in patients with taxane-resistant cancer with contraindication to further anthracycline therapy. Ixabepilone has also been approved as monotherapy in patients with metastatic and locally advanced breast cancer refractory to taxanes, anthracyclines, and capecitabine. The most common adverse reactions reported by 20% or more of the patients receiving ixabepilone were peripheral sensory neuropathy, fatigue/asthenia, myalgia/arthralgia, alopecia, nausea, vomiting, stomatitis/mucositis, diarrhea, and musculoskeletal pain. The most common hematologic abnormalities seen in more than 40% of the patients include neutropenia, leukopenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia. Premedication with histamine H1 and H2 antagonists is recommended to prevent hypersensitivity reactions. Conclusions: Based on the clinical trials reviewed here and the current information available, ixabepilone is a welcome addition to the options available for the treatment of patients with metastatic breast cancer refractory to standard therapy.
Impact of Health Literacy on Health Outcomes in Ambulatory Care Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Keller Darcie L , Wright Julie , Pace Heather A 
Published: July 2008

Objective To examine the relationship between low health literacy and disease state control and between low health literacy medication adherence in the primary caro setting. Data Sources: The following databases were searched for relevant articles from date of inception to April 2008: The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Cumulative Index to Nursing & Allied Health Literature, EMBASE, Education Resources Information Center, PsyclNFO, International Pharmaceutical Abstracts, and Iowa Drug Information Service. MEDLINE was searched from 1966 to April 2008. Key words included literacy, health literacy, health education, educational status, disease outcomes, health outcomes, adherence, medication adherence, and patient compliance. Additional articles were identified by reviewing reference sections of retrieved articles. Study Selection And Data Extraction: Studies using a validated measure of health literacy and performing statistical analysis to evaluate the relationship between health literacy and disease state control or medication adherence were evaluated. Data Synthesis: Eleven evaluations, including 10 discrete studies, met eligibility criteria. Six studies evaluated the relationship between health literacy and disease state control, 3 evaluated health literacy and medication adherence, and 1 study evaluated health literacy and both outcomes. A quality rating of poor, fair, or good was assigned to each study based on the study question, population, outcome measures, statistical analysis, and results. Eight studies had good quality, 1 was fair, and 2 were poor. Two high-quality studies demonstrated statistically significant relationships with health literacy, 1 with disease state control and 1 with medication adherence. Limitations of the other studies included inadequate sample size, underrepresentation of patients with low health literacy, use of less objective outcome measures, and insufficient statistical analysis. Conclusions: There may be a relationship between health literacy and disease state control and health literacy and medication adherence. Future research, with adequate representation of patients with low health literacy, is needed to further define this relationship and explore interventions to overcome the impact that low health literacy may have on patient outcomes.
Trends in Statin Use and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels Among US Adults: Impact of the 2001 National Cholesterol Education Program Guidelines
Authors: Mann Devin , Reynolds Kristi , Smith Donald , Muntner Paul 
Published: July 2008

Background Few data are available on the use of statins after publication of the National Cholesterol Education Program Third Adult Treatment Panel (ATP-III) guidelines in 2001. Objective To determine changes in statin use and its Impact on low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) control among US adults from 1999 to 2004. Methods High LDL-C levels and statin use among 1911 participants of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2004 were determined and compared with 1770 and 2094 participants of NHANES 1999–2000 and NHANES 2001–2002, respectively. Statin use was obtained from review of participants’ drug containers. High LDL-C levels and LDL-C control were defined, using risk-specific cut-points from the ATP-III guidelines. Results: Statins were taken by 24 million Americans in 2003–2004, an increase from 12.5 million in 1999–2000. In 1999–2000, 2001–2002, and 2003–2004, statins were being used by 19.6%, 27.3%, and 35.9% of US adults with high LDL-C levels, respectively (p trend <0.001). Age-standardized mean LDL-C declined from 119.9 to 112.0 to 100.7 mg/dL among statin users between 1999–2000, 2001–2002, and 2003–2004. LDL-C control to ATP-III recommended targets was achieved by 49.7%, 67.4%, and 77.6% of statin users in 1999–2000, 2001–2002, and 2003–2004, respectively (p trend <0.001). Among US adults with high LDL-C, after multivariate adjustment, non-Hispanic blacks were 39% less likely (prevalence ratio = 0.61; 95 CI 0.39 to 0.97) than non-Hispanic whites to be taking statins. Conclusions: Statin use continues to increase among US adults and this has led to substantial improvements in LDL-C control. Nevertheless, suboptimal statin use, especially among racial/ethnic minorities, continues to prevent the maximal public health benefit from this effective drug class.