bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Over-expression of glutamine synthase in focal nodular hyperplasia (part 1): Early stages in the formation support the hypothesis of a focal hyper-arterialisation with venous (portal and hepatic) and biliary damage
Authors: Bioulac-Sage Paulette , Laumonier Hervé , Cubel Gaëlle , Saric Jean , Balabaud Charles 
Published: February 2008

Abstract

Background
Most focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) cases are diagnosed by chance. We studied a case of pre-FNH. We used glutamine synthase as an immunohistochemical marker for perivenous zones.

Results
Neither fibrotic scars nor hepatocytic nodules surrounded by fibrosis with a ductular reaction were observed in the sections studied. Most sections generally displayed preserved architecture. The glutamine synthase-positive hepatocyte areas were wider than those observed in non-tumoural surrounding liver, and they tended to extend outwards. Portal tracts bordering the nodule were more fibrotic, with an absence of portal veins and ducts and with arterial proliferation often in proximity with large draining veins; isolated arteries were present and hepatic veins were rare in the nodule. These features appeared prior to the identification of other major criteria characteristics of FNH, thus supporting the "hypothesis of Wanless".

Conclusion
The findings confirm that in FNH there is a portal tract injury leading to local portal vein injury. This leads to a cascade of events, including arterial venous shunts, ductular reaction, and scar formation.
Inhibition of oncogene-induced inflammatory chemokines using a farnesyltransferase inhibitor
Authors: DeGeorge Katharine C , DeGeorge Brent R , Testa James S , Rothstein Jay L 
Published: February 2008

Abstract

Background
Farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTI) are small molecule agents originally formulated to inhibit the oncogenic functions of Ras. Although subsequent analysis of FTI activity revealed wider effects on other pathways, the drug has been demonstrated to reduce Ras signaling by direct measurements. The purpose of the current study was to determine if FTI could be used to inhibit the inflammatory activities of a known Ras-activating human oncoprotein, RET/PTC3. RET/PTC3 is a fusion oncoprotein expressed in the thyroid epithelium of patients afflicted with thyroid autoimmune disease and/or differentiated thyroid carcinoma. Previous studies have demonstrated that RET/PTC3 signals through Ras and can provoke nuclear translocation of NFκB and the downstream release of pro-inflammatory mediators from thyroid follicular cells in vitro and in vivo, making it an ideal target for studies using FTI.

Methods
For the studies described here, an in vitro assay was developed to measure FTI inhibition of RET/PTC3 pro-inflammatory effects. Rat thyrocytes transfected with RET/PTC3 or vector control cDNA were co-cultured with FTI and examined for inhibition of chemokine expression and secretion measured by RT-PCR and ELISA. Immunoblot analysis was used to confirm the level at which FTI acts on RET/PTC3-expressing cells, and Annexin V/PI staining of cells was used to assess cell death in RET/PTC3-expressing cells co-cultured with FTI.

Results
These analyses revealed significant mRNA and protein inhibition of chemokines Ccl2 and Cxcl1 with nanomolar doses of FTI. Neither RET/PTC3 protein expression nor apoptosis were affected at any dose of FTI investigated.

Conclusion
These data suggest that FTI may be applied as an effective inhibitor for RET/PTC3-oncogene induced pro-inflammatory mediators.
Asymmetry and structural system analysis of the proximal femur meta-epiphysis: osteoarticular anatomical pathology
Authors: Samaha Ali A , Ivanov Alexander V , Haddad John J , Kolesnik Alexander I , Baydoun Safaa , Arabi Maher R , Yashina Irena N , Samaha Rana A , Ivanov Dimetry A 
Published: February 2008

AbstractBackgroundThe human femur is commonly considered as a subsystem of the locomotor apparatus with four conspicuous levels of organization. This phenomenon is the result of the evolution of the locomotor apparatus, which encompasses both constitutional and individual variability. The work therein reported, therefore, underlies the significance of observing anatomical system analysis of the proximal femur meta-epiphysis in normal conditions, according to the anatomic positioning with respect to the right or left side of the body, and the presence of system asymmetry in the meta-epiphysis structure, thus indicating structural and functional asymmetry.MethodsA total of 160 femur bones of both sexes were compiled and a morphological study of 15 linear and angulated parameters of proximal femur epiphysis was produced, thus defining the linear/angulated size of tubular bones. The parameters were divided into linear and angulated groups, while maintaining the motion of the hip joint and transmission of stress to the unwanted parts of the limb. Furthermore, the straight and vertical diameters of the femoral head and the length of the femoral neck were also studied. The angle between the neck and diaphysis, the neck antiversion and angle of rotation of the femoral neck were subsequently measured. Finally, the condylo-diaphyseal angle with respect to the axis of extremity was determined. To visualize the force of intersystem ties, we have used the method of correlation galaxy construction.ResultsThe absolute numeral values of each linear parameter were transformed to relative values. The values of superfluity coefficient for each parameter in the right and left femoral bone groups were estimated and Pearson's correlation coefficient has been calculated (> 0.60). Retrospectively, the observed results have confirmed the presence of functional asymmetry in the proximal femur meta-epiphysis. On the basis of compliance or insignificant difference in the confidence interval of the linear parameters, we have revealed, therefore, a discrepancy in values between the neck and the diaphysis angle and the angle of femoral neck rotation (range displacement of confident interval to a greater degree to the right).ConclusionThis study assessed the observations of a systemic anatomical study encompassing the proximal femur meta-epiphysis behavior in normal condition. This work has significance in medical practice as the theoretical basis is also required in knowing the decreased frequency and degree of severity of osteoarthritic pathologies in the dominant lower extremity.
Perceptions of disadvantage, ethnicity and psychosis
Authors: Cooper Claudia , Morgan Craig , Byrne Majella , Dazzan Paola , Morgan Kevin , Hutchinson Gerard , Doody Gillian A. , Harrison Glynn , Leff Julian , Jones Peter , Ismail Khalida , Murray Robin , Bebbington Paul , Fearon Paul 
Published: February 2008

BackgroundPeople from Black ethnic groups (African-Caribbean and Black African) are more prone to develop psychosis in Western countries. This excess might be explained by perceptions of disadvantage.AimsTo investigate whether the higher incidence of psychosis in Black people is mediated by perceptions of disadvantage.MethodA population-based incidence and case-control study of first-episode psychosis (Aetiology and Ethnicity in Schizophrenia and Other Psychoses (ÆSOP)). A total of 482 participants answered questions about perceived disadvantage.ResultsBlack ethnic groups had a higher incidence of psychosis (OR=4.7, 95% CI 3.1–7.2). After controlling for religious affiliation, social class and unemployment, the association of ethnicity with psychosis was attenuated (OR=3.0, 95% CI 1.6–5.4) by perceptions of disadvantage. Participants in the Black non-psychosis group often attributed their disadvantage to racism, whereas Black people in the psychosis group attributed it to their own situation.ConclusionsPerceived disadvantage is partly associated with the excess of psychosis among Black people living in the UK. This may have implications for primary prevention.
Characteristics of suicides in recent contact with NHS Direct
Authors: Bessant Michael , King Elizabeth A. , Peveler Robert 
Published: February 2008

Aims and MethodNHS Direct is increasingly used as a first source of health advice and information, receiving an average of 600 000 calls per month. We performed an audit of suicides in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight over a 2-year period to determine the characteristics of those who died by suicide and had been in recent contact with NHS Direct.ResultsOf 278 suicides resident in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight, 30 (10.8%) had contacted NHS Direct in the preceding year. Of the 30 callers within the preceding year, 12 (40%) made multiple calls, 7 (23%) called within 2 weeks of death, 9 (30%) callers reported mental health problems, 17 (57%) reported physical problems, and 4 (13%) just requested information. Eighteen (60%) calls resulted in urgent medical referral, 17 to a general practitioner and 1 to accident and emergency.Clinical ImplicationsThe high incidence of physical, often pain-related, problems merits further investigation.
Primary consultation clinics in child psychiatry: an evaluation of referrers' views of the service
Authors: Pathy Puru , Yanamani Neleema , Markantonakis Aristos , Wilson Paul , Mason Russell 
Published: February 2008

Aims and MethodTo collate referrers' views on primary consultations in child psychiatry, feedback data were collected by questionnaires over a 12-month period.ResultsReferrers found reports clearly written, informative and helpful, but wished for further, more direct involvement, support and follow up, and also for a clear plan of action for the children referred.Clinical ImplicationsPrimary consultation clinics should be further developed and audited in the future, in view of the recent changes in child and adolescent mental health services.
A Comparison of the Short-Term Effects of Oral Conjugated Equine Estrogens Versus Transdermal Estradiol on C-Reactive Protein, Other Serum Markers of Inflammation, and Other Hepatic Proteins in Naturally Menopausal Women
Authors: Shifren Jan L. , Rifai Nader , Desindes Sophie , McIlwain Marilyn , Doros Gheorghe , Mazer Norman A. 
Published: February 2008

AbstractObjective: Our objective was to compare the effects of oral vs. transdermal estrogen therapy on C-reactive protein (CRP), IL-6, E- and P-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1, serum amyloid A, transferrin, prealbumin, IGF-I, SHBG, thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG), and cortisol-binding globulin (CBG) in naturally menopausal women.Design: This was a randomized, open-label crossover clinical trial. A 6-wk withdrawal from prior hormone therapy (baseline) was followed in randomized order by 12-wk oral conjugated equine estrogens (CEEs) (0.625 mg/d) and 12-wk transdermal estradiol (E2) (0.05 mg/d), with oral micronized progesterone (100 mg/d) given continuously during both regimens.Results: A total of 27 women enrolled, and 25 completed both treatment periods. Nine parameters changed significantly during oral CEE (median percent change from baseline; P value): CRP (192%; P &lt;0.001); E-selectin (−16.3%; P = 0.003); P-selectin (−15.3%; P = 0.012); ICAM-1 (−5%; P = 0.015); transferrin (5.3%; P = 0.024); IGF-I (−30.5%; P &lt; 0.001); SHBG (113%; P &lt; 0.001); TBG (38%; P &lt; 0.001); and CBG (20%; P &lt; 0.001). With transdermal E2, only three parameters changed significantly and to a lesser degree: ICAM-1 (−2.1%; P = 0.04); IGF-I (−12.5%; P &lt; 0.001); and SHBG (2.6%; P = 0.042). During oral CEE the intrasubject changes in CRP correlated strongly with the changes in serum amyloid A (r = 0.805; P &lt; 0.001), and were only weakly associated with the changes in SHBG (r = 0.248; nonsignificant), TBG (0.430; P = 0.031), and CBG (r = 0.072; nonsignificant). The log-log relationship between CRP and IL-6 observed at baseline showed a parallel shift during oral CEE, suggesting an amplified hepatic response or a greater sensitivity to IL-6 stimulation.Conclusion: Compared with oral CEE, transdermal E2 exerts minimal effects on CRP and the other inflammation and hepatic parameters.
Visual sensitivity in the crepuscular owl butterfly Caligo memnon and the diurnal blue morpho Morpho peleides: a clue to explain the evolution of nocturnal apposition eyes?
Authors: Frederiksen Rikard , Warrant Eric J. 
Published: February 2008

SUMMARY
Insects active in dim light, such as moths and many beetles, normally have superposition compound eyes to increase photon capture. But there are nocturnal and crepuscular insects – such as some species of bees, wasps and butterflies – that have apposition compound eyes. These are likely to have adaptations – including large eye and facet size and coarsened spatial and temporal resolution – that improve their sensitivity and thus their visual reliability. Is this also true for crepuscular insects that are active at intermediate intensities? To test this hypothesis, the visual performance of two closely related butterflies, the diurnal blue morpho Morpho peleides and the crepuscular owl butterfly Caligo memnon, were compared. Compared to the diurnal M. peleides, the crepuscular C. memnon does not appear to be adapted to a nocturnal lifestyle in terms of spatial resolution: the interommatidial angleΔϕ is similar in both species, and acceptance angles, Δρ,are only marginally larger in C. memnon. Moreover, temporal resolution is only a little coarser in C. memnon compared to M. peleides. Using a model for sensitivity, we found that the eyes of C. memnon are about four times as light-sensitive as those of M. peleides in the frontal visual field, much of this difference being due to the larger facet diameters found in C. memnon. In summary, greater visual sensitivity has evolved in C. memnon than in M. peleides, showing that adaptations that improve sensitivity can be found not only in nocturnal apposition eyes, but also on a smaller scale in crepuscular apposition eyes.
`Blood-doping' effects on hematocrit regulation and oxygen consumption in late-stage chicken embryos (Gallus gallus)
Authors: Khorrami Sheva , Tazawa Hiroshi , Burggren Warren 
Published: February 2008

SUMMARYThe extent to which hematocrit (Hct) is regulated and the impact of altered Hct on blood oxygen transport in avian embryos are largely unknown. Consequently, we investigated how acute blood removal or Ringer solution injection modified Hct in day 15 embryos, and how `blood doping' with erythrocyte-enriched whole blood influenced O2 consumption in day 15–17 chicken embryos. Mean Hct (±s.e.m.) at day 15, 16 and 17 was 26.7±0.6%, 28.0±0.4% and 30.7±0.5%, respectively. Blood withdrawal (19 increments of 125 μl each, separated by 30 min) caused a progressive fall in Hct to ∼12% at day 15. Hct decline was strictly proportional to the extent of blood withdrawal. Incremental Ringer solution injection over an 8 h period, transiently increasing blood volume up to 85%over initial values, did not decrease Hct, indicating that injected Ringer solution rapidly left the circulating blood compartment. Blood doping with erythrocyte-enriched whole blood artificially elevated Hct from 27% to 38%,but caused no significant change in routine O2 consumption(0.35–0.39 ml O2 min–1egg–1) at any point over the subsequent 6 h period in day 15–17 embryos. We conclude that Hct is not protected acutely in day 15 chicken embryos, with no evidence of erythrocyte sequestration or release. Additionally, at day 15–17, Hct increases of ∼10% do not enhance embryonic oxygen consumption, suggesting that blood oxygen carrying capacity per se is not limiting to oxygen consumption.
Copper(I) Iodide Accelerates Catalytic Activation in Rhodium Complex-catalyzed Helix-sense-selective Polymerization of Achiral Phenylacetylene Monomers
Authors: Katagiri Hiroo , Kaneko Takashi , Teraguchi Masahiro , Aoki Toshiki 
Published: February 2008

Abstract
Achiral phenylacetylene monomers were polymerized using a rhodium (Rh) complex catalyst in the presence of (S)-1-phenylethylamine. Addition of copper(I) iodide (CuI) into the catalytic system improved the polymer yield. The monomer, which had two hydroxy groups and a hydrogalvinoxyl unit, gave the corresponding polymer with an optically active helical conformation stabilized by intramolecular hydrogen bonding. The chemical oxidation of the polymer yielded the corresponding optically active helical polyradical with high spin concentration.
Improving the Nutritional Status of Elderly Residents of Long-Term Care Homes
Authors: Leydon Noella , Dahl Wendy 
Published: February 2008

Introduction High rates of malnutrition exist in long-term care residents in Canada. Residents may be admitted in a malnourished state or may become malnourished while in care. Nutritional decline of residents may be due to medical conditions but may also result from the failure to provide for the unique nutritional needs of this population, through an inadequate menu, inadequate swallowing and functional assessments, and lack of assistance with dining. Assessment of problem A project for the implementation of regional food services policies and practices was deployed with the ultimate goals to reduce nutritional risk and enhance the quality of life of the individuals residing in the 29 long-term care homes in the Saskatoon Health Region. The objectives were: to ensure that food and nutrition staff were competent; to provide adequate nutrition to residents; and to ensure nutrition screening, assessment and appropriate intervention, as approved by the resident or their relatives, was provided. Implementation consisted of: extensive communication of the problem; the development of draft Saskatchewan Food Services policies; planning regional goals, tasks, accountabilities and indicators; delivering meal assistance training to staff; and establishing a Regional Menu Advisory Committee. Results Outcomes have been clearly articulated and methods to collect data clearly defined. Interventions in progress include:the development of key relationships among the health region's long-term care staff, managers and directors; communicating a clear understanding of resident-directed care; determining the baseline knowledge of food service staff; and assembling a project tool kit for implementing food and nutrition policies at each home. Strategies for quality improvement Although the expectation was that food services policy implementation would be presented to all homes simultaneously, a more intensive pilot schedule has focussed on early-adopter sites. The three-year implementation plan is designed for sustainability. Lessons and messages Malnutrition is multifactorial and a concerted effort of all caregivers and service providers is important to address root causes.
Increasing the Involvement of Specialist Physicians in Chronic Disease Management
Authors: Taylor Dylan , Lahey Michele 
Published: February 2008

Background The Capital Health (CH) region in Alberta serves the population of the Edmonton area as well as a large referral population in western Canada. CH is responsible for the delivery of the spectrum of patient care, from inpatient to outpatient services. Growth in outpatient care, in particular, has led to the development of several ambulatory care facilities from which the delivery of care to several populations with a chronic disease will be coordinated. Assessment of problem The traditional model of care delivery is unsuited to the management of chronic diseases. Physicians must be part of the planning and implementation of new models if they are to be successful and sustainable. The concept of integration into a delivery team is not well understood or practised. This is not conducive to the integration of specialist physicians into multidisciplinary teams in ambulatory care that serves the needs of patients from a large geographic area. Results Chronic disease management using the Chronic Care Model has proven to be an effective method of delivering care to this wide population. Specialist physicians have not always taken advantage of opportunities to be involved in the planning and development of such new health care projects. In CH, physician integration in the planning, development and implementation of this new model has proven vital to its success. Strategies for change We based our strategy for change on Wagner's Chronic Care Model. This involved eight steps, the first four of which have been completed and the fifth and sixth are underway. Lessons and messages Five factors contributed to the successful integration of specialist physicians in chronic disease management: collaboration between disciplines and organizations; creating patient-centred services; organizational commitments; strong clinical leadership; and early involvement of clinicians.
Written Consent – A Prospective Audit of Practices for ENT Patients
Authors: Berry NH , Phillips JS , Salam MA 
Published: February 2008

INTRODUCTION It is very important that patients are given sufficient time to consider the implications of surgical treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS The authors audited the consenting practices for patients undergoing surgery in a busy ENT unit. RESULTS The first cycle demonstrated that 15% of patients were providing written consent for surgery on the same day as their operation. Subsequent to a simple change in departmental policy, this was reduced to 2%. The medicolegal implications of this audit are discussed with reference to current recommendations. CONCLUSIONS This simple policy change not only protects the hospital trust from potential litigation but also provides a smooth journey for the patients from diagnosis to making the decision to operate and finally to undergoing surgery.
Rifaximin Treatment for Symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Fumi Andrea L , Trexler Katherine 
Published: February 2008

Objective: To evaluate the role of rifaximin in the treatment of symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Data Sources: Clinical literature was accessed through MEDLINE (1990–September 2007) using the terms rifaximin, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), bacterial overgrowth, and irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, references in publications identified in the search were reviewed for relevant information. Study Selection and Data Extraction: All articles published in English identified from the data source were evaluated. Randomized clinical trials in adult populations were included. Data Synthesis: IBS is a common functional bowel disorder of unknown etiology. Some evidence suggests that symptoms are secondary to bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. Rifaximin, a nonsystemic antibiotic that targets the gastrointestinal tract, has been evaluated in the treatment of SIBO. Six studies that evaluated rifaximin in either IBS, with or without documented SIBO, or SIBO alone, were reviewed. Significant symptom improvement was reported, and in some cases, correlated with reductions in hydrogen breath tests, suggesting successful treatment of bacterial overgrowth. Data are limited by controversial diagnostic techniques for SIBO, small sample sizes, the unpredictable course of the disorder, and variability in clinical trial methodology that prevents direct comparison. Conclusions: Rifaximin offers a potential new therapeutic option for patients with refractory IBS. Larger, well-designed trials are necessary to elucidate the role of rifaximin in the treatment of this disorder.