MedWorm: University of Minnesota

Key Finding In Stem Cell Self-Renewal

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 09:00:00 +0100

A University of Minnesota-led research team has proposed a mechanism for the control of whether embryonic stem cells continue to proliferate and stay stem cells, or differentiate into adult cells like brain, liver or skin. The work has implications in two areas. In cancer treatment, it is desirable to inhibit cell proliferation. But to grow adult stem cells for transplantation to victims of injury or disease, it would be desirable to sustain proliferation until a sufficient number of cells have been produced to make a usable organ or tissue... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Parenting after Traumatic Events: Ways to Support Children

Psych Central — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 14:35:07 +0100

One of the most important messages for parents about traumatic experiences—such as car accidents, medical trauma, exposure to violence, disasters—that may impact them and their children is that while children of all ages can be impacted, most are resilient and able to cope and recover. Dr. Ann Masten from the University of Minnesota wrote in the journal American Psychologist (2001) about resilience as “ordinary magic.” That is, given normal protective factors, most children will be able to cope, recover, and be fine after witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. Some children and adolescents may develop symptoms following a disaster, especially if they have experienced traumatic events earlier such as losses or other difficult situations. The symptoms related to trauma may ap...

Hormel Institute study makes key finding in stem cell self-renewal

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) A University of Minnesota-led research team has proposed a mechanism for the control of whether embryonic stem cells continue to proliferate and stay stem cells, or differentiate into adult cells like brain, liver or skin. The work has implications in two areas. In cancer treatment, it is desirable to inhibit cell proliferation. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Cryptogenic Hepatitis and Bartonellosis

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:53:10 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory CorrespondencePages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s10620-012-2065-zAuthors Paulo Eduardo Neves Ferreira Velho, Department of Dermatology/Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware St. S.E., MMC98, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USAMarna Elise Ericson, Department of Dermatology/Center for Drug Design, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware St. S.E., MMC98, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA Journal Digestive Diseases and SciencesOnline ISSN 1573-2568Print ISSN 0163-2116 (Source: Digestive Diseases and Sciences)

A comparison of the accuracy of self-reported intake with measured intake of a laboratory overeating episode in overweight and obese women with and without binge eating disorder

European Journal of Nutrition — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 17:57:45 +0100

Conclusions Findings confirm that those with BED consume significantly more than controls during a laboratory binge and controls tended to be more accurate in recalling their intake 24 h later. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ContributionPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00394-012-0302-zAuthors Lindsay T. Bartholome, Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota Medical School, F282/2A West, 2450 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USARoseann E. Peterson, Department of Human and Molecular Genetics, Virginia Institute for Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetics, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23220, USASusan K. Raatz, USDA Human Nutrition Research Center, Grand Forks, ND 58203, USANancy C. Raymond, Department of Psychiatry, University of M...

Get Kids to Eat Their Veggies

RWJF News Digest - Childhood Obesity — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Want kids to eat their vegetables? Try pictures, not words. Using a Richfield elementary school as their lab, researchers from the University of Minnesota placed images of green beans and carrots on the cafeteria food trays for one day. More kids took vegetables, and more kids ate them, according to a study published online Wednesday. (Source: RWJF News Digest - Childhood Obesity)

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Minnesota Partnership Researchers Close in on Drug to Fight Fungal Infections

News from Mayo Clinic — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:46:47 +0100

Researchers from the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis and Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., are another step closer to developing a drug to combat fungal infections - one of the major problems confronting patients with compromised immune systems. (Source: News from Mayo Clinic)

New U of M video game teaches consequences of distracted driving

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) Distraction Dodger is an Internet-based video game developed by the Intelligent Transportation System Institute at the University of Minnesota. The game, designed to help teens and young adults understand the importance of concentrating on driving, will premiere at the Teen Safe Driving Summit on Thursday, Feb. 2, at the Rosemount Community Center, 13885 S. Robert Trail, Rosemount. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Clinical Use of Bone Turnover Markers to Monitor Pharmacologic Fracture Prevention Therapy

Current Osteoporosis Reports — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:54:46 +0100

Abstract Monitoring of drug therapies to prevent fractures is controversial. Measurement of bone turnover markers has the potential to identify those with a suboptimal response to fracture prevention medication within a few months of its commencement. However, given the imprecision of currently commercially available assays of bone turnover markers, many individual persons who are “suboptimal medication responders” are likely to be misclassified as “adequate responders” or vice versa, depending on the cut point chosen to define suboptimal and adequate response. Before bone turnover markers can be recommended for routine use in clinical practice to monitor fracture prevention therapies, three advances are needed: 1) bone marker assays with better precision; 2) resea...

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Rotator cuff: biology and current arthroscopic techniques

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:34:45 +0100

Abstract The present article summarizes current trends in arthroscopic rotator cuff repairs focusing on the used repair technique, potential influencing factors on the results, and long-term outcome after reconstruction of the rotator cuff. Moreover, different treatment options for the treatment for irreparable rotator cuff ruptures were described, and the results of additional augmentation of the repairs with platelet-rich plasma were critically analyzed. Based on the current literature, double-row repairs did not achieve superior clinical results compared to single-row repairs neither in the clinical results nor in the re-rupture rate. Multiple factors such as age, fatty infiltration, and initial rupture size might influence the results. If the rupture is not repairable,...

Default policies and parents’ consent for school-located HPV vaccination

Journal of Behavioral Medicine — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:15:42 +0100

We examined the effect of two default policies on parents’ consent to have their adolescent sons hypothetically receive HPV vaccine at school. A national sample of 404 parents of adolescent sons participated in an online 3 × 2 between-subjects factorial experiment. Factors varied the default consent policy (opt-in, opt-out, or neutral) and the number of vaccines sons would receive (HPV vaccine alone or along with two other recommended adolescent vaccines). Among parents wanting to get their sons HPV vaccine in the next year, consent was higher in the opt-in condition (compared to the opt-out condition) or if other recommended adolescent vaccines would be included. Default policies had no effect among parents undecided about HPV vaccination. Parents’ consent for school-...

Examining the Link Between Bariatric Surgery, Bone Loss, and Osteoporosis: a Review of Bone Density Studies

Obesity Surgery — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:50:11 +0100

Abstract As the popularity of bariatric surgery to treat morbid obesity has risen, so has a concern of increased skeletal fragility secondary to accelerated bone loss following bariatric procedures. We reviewed cross-sectional and prospective literature reporting bone density outcomes following bariatric surgical treatment for morbid obesity. Prospective research provides evidence of hip and lumbar spine areal bone mineral density (aBMD) reductions primarily in women despite calcium and vitamin D supplementation. Femoral neck aBMD declines of 9–11% and lumbar spine aBMD reductions up to 8% were observed at the first post-operative year following malabsorptive procedures. Mean T- and Z-scores up to 25 years following surgery remained within normal and healthy ranges. ...

NAADP Does Not Directly Bind to Two-pore Channels to Release Calcium♦ [Papers of the Week]

Journal of Biological Chemistry — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

♦ See referenced article, J. Biol. Chem. 2012, 287, 2296–2307 ♦ See referenced article, J. Biol. Chem. 2012, 287, 2308–2315 Nicotinic acid adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAADP) is a second messenger that releases calcium from intracellular acidic stores in the endolysosomal system. The calcium ions exit through two-pore channels (TPCs) that get activated by NAADP, but little is known about the interaction mechanism between NAADP and TPCs. In two companion Papers of the Week, Jonathan S. Marchant and Timothy F. Walseth at the University of Minnesota Medical School in Minneapolis led teams to develop a photoaffinity labeling method to identify the NAADP-binding site on TPCs. Walseth and colleagues designed and characterized the molecule 5-azido-[32P]NAADP. When incubated with sea ur...

Meta-analysis of Histopathological Features of Primary Colorectal Cancers that Predict Lymph Node Metastases

Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:48:04 +0100

Conclusions No single histopathological feature of colorectal cancer reliably predicted lymph node metastases. Several risk factors that correlate highly with nodal disease are not routine components of standard pathology reports. Until further research establishes histopathological or molecular patterns for predicting lymph node spread, caution should be exercised when basing treatment decisions solely on these factors. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s11605-012-1827-4Authors Sean C. Glasgow, Department of Surgery, San Antonio Military Medical Center, 3551 Roger Brooke Drive, Ft. Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX 78234-6200, USAJoshua I. S. Bleier, Department of Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USALawrenc...

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A Commentary on the Role of Sexually Explicit Media (SEM) in the Transmission and Prevention of HIV among Men who have Sex with Men (MSM)

AIDS and Behavior — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:59:07 +0100

Abstract Although research has been conducted over the last half century to test the hypothesis that pornography, or sexually explicit media (SEM), influences behavior, information regarding usage and its effect on men who have sex with men (MSM) is limited. It is important for researchers studying online risk factors for HIV to consider the relationship between SEM consumption and risky sexual behavior, particularly given the exponential increase in SEM exposure as a result of the near-compulsory use of the Internet. In this commentary, we review findings regarding this relationship from studies of international and heterosexual populations. We then suggest future directions for research regarding MSM in the United States and practical applications of such research if the...

State Health Access Reform Evaluation - 2012 Call for Proposals

RWJF - Open Calls For Proposals — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 14:00:00 +0100

State Health Access Reform Evaluation (SHARE) is a national program of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation that supports rigorous research on health reform issues by investigators representing diverse disciplines and backgrounds. The program seeks to identify and fill gaps in research on health reform issues, especially related to state-level implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), with a focus on provisions that are designed to increase access and coverage. SHARE-sponsored research will provide timely guidance on implementation issues as states consider their unique responsibilities in executing the ACA, and will contribute to the evidence base for future state and national health reform efforts. The State Health Access Data Assistance Center (SHADAC) at the University of Minnesot...

Cytotoxic purine nucleoside analogues bind to A1, A2A, and A3 adenosine receptors

Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:07:28 +0100

The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of cytotoxic nucleoside analogues to bind and activate adenosine receptor subtypes (A1, A2A, A2B, and A3). Radioligand binding studies utilizing Chinese hamster ovary cells, stably transfected with adenosine A1, A2A, or A3 receptor subtype, were used to assess the binding affinities of these compounds, whereas adenylyl cyclase activity was used to assess the binding to A2B receptors. Clofarabine and cladribine both bound to the A2A receptor with a K i of 17 and 15 μM, respectively. Clofarabine was the only adenosine analogue to bind to the A3 receptor with a K i of 10 μM, and none of these compounds bound to the A2B receptor. Results show that clofarabine, cladribine, and fludarabine bind to the A1 receptor. In additio...

Human temporomandibular joint and myofascial pain biochemical profiles: a case‐control study

Journal of Oral Rehabilitation — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Summary Neurobiological mechanisms of human musculoskeletal pain are poorly understood. This case‐control study tested the hypothesis that biomarkers within temporomandibular muscle and joint disorders (TMJD) subjects’ masseter muscles or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) synovial fluid correlate with plasma biomarker concentrations. Fifty subjects were recruited and categorized into TMJD cases (n = 23) and pain‐free controls (n = 27) at the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry. Prior to specimen collection, pain intensity and pressure pain threshold masseter muscles and the TMJs were assessed. We collected venous blood; biopsied masseter muscle; and sampled TMJ synovial fluid on the subjects’ side of maximum pain intensity. We assayed these tissues for the presence o...

Use of the University of Minnesota Biocatalysis/Biodegradation Database for study of microbial degradation

The Aspergillus Website - articles — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:16:55 +0100

Lynda B.M. Ellis and Lawrence P. Wackett (Source: The Aspergillus Website - articles)

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TASER electronic control devices and eye injuries

Documenta Ophthalmologica — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 17:16:14 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Letter to the EditorPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s10633-012-9310-9Authors Mark W. Kroll, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Minnesota, Box 23, Crystal Bay, MN 55323, USADonald M. Dawes, Department of Emergency Medicine, Lompoc Valley Medical Center, 1515 East Ocean Avenue, Lompoc, CA 93436, USAWilliam G. Heegaard, Emergency Medicine, Hennepin County Medical Center, 701 Park Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55415, USA Journal Documenta OphthalmologicaOnline ISSN 1573-2622Print ISSN 0012-4486 (Source: Documenta Ophthalmologica)

A scarcity of women leads men to spend more, save less

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) The perception that women are scarce leads men to become impulsive, save less, and increase borrowing, according to new research from the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Well-Differentiated Liposarcoma/Atypical Lipomatous Tumor of the Oral Cavity: Report of Three Cases and Review of the Literature

Head and Neck Pathology — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 17:02:08 +0100

In this study, three additional cases of ALT/WDLS located on the tongue (2 cases) and the lower lip (1 case), respectively, are described. Analysis of the salient clinicopathologic features of 63 oral ALT/WDLS cases previously reported in the English language literature, as well as of the 3 cases presented in this study, indicates that the indolent biologic behavior of this tumor justifies its designation as a locally spreading malignant neoplasm, affording a rather conservative surgical approach. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Case ReportPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s12105-011-0327-2Authors Evangelia Piperi, Department of Oral Pathology and Medicine, Dental School, University of Athens, 2 Thivon Street, 11527 Athens, GreeceKonstantinos I. Tosios, Department of Oral Pathology and...

Characterizing Sexual Health Resources on College Campuses

Journal of Community Health — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:40:12 +0100

Abstract This observational study describes the development of the college resources and sexual health inventory, the profile of sexual health promotion resources at participating colleges, and comparisons of resources across several college characteristics. 28 diverse college campuses in one Midwestern state participated. 10 domains were assessed, including characteristics of campus health services (e.g. convenience), condom programs, sexual health information, communication about resources, sexual violence resources and gay/lesbian/bisexual student resources. Scores for each measure reflected the presence or extent of each resource. Summary scores were created for the overall level of sexual health resources and for each domain. T tests and ANOVAs were used to compare res...

Endothelial function in children and adolescents with mucopolysaccharidosis

Journal of Inherited Metabolic Disease — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:34:48 +0100

Conclusion These preliminary findings suggest that children and adolescents with treated MPS have significantly poorer endothelial function when compared to healthy controls. Further investigation into the utility of endothelial function for risk stratification and the long term implications of reduced endothelial function in MPS is warranted. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s10545-011-9438-xAuthors Aaron S. Kelly, Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Medical School, 420 Delaware St. S.E., MMC 715, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USAAndrea M. Metzig, Division of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Medical School, 420 Delaw...

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Presence of Oxalobacter formigenes in the intestinal tract is associated with the absence of calcium oxalate urolith formation in dogs

Urological Research — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 17:04:55 +0100

Abstract The incidence of calcium oxalate (CaOx) urolithiasis in dogs has increased steadily over the last two decades. A potential mechanism to minimize CaOx urolithiasis is to reduce enteric absorption of dietary oxalate by oxalate-metabolizing enteric bacteria. Enteric colonization of Oxalobacter formigenes, an anaerobe which exclusively relies on oxalate metabolism for energy, is correlated with absence of hyperoxaluria or CaOx urolithiasis or both in humans and laboratory animals. We thus hypothesized that decreased enteric colonization of O. formigenes is a risk factor for CaOx urolithiasis in dogs. Fecal samples from dogs with CaOx uroliths, clinically healthy, age-, breed- and gender-matched dogs, and healthy non-stone forming breed dogs were screened for the presenc...

Mentoring in Health Services Management: Reflections on an Evolving Training Ground

The Health Care Manager — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 06:00:00 +0100

Since the University of Chicago Health Management program was first initiated in 1932, programs and health delivery organizations have dealt with the issue of how to best provide a meaningful transition from academia to entry-level management. Today, new challenges face the same old questions: New federal legislation and increased demand for a finite supply of services cause increased revenue and expense pressures and result in the need for a higher performance level by a well-coordinated management team. In addressing these challenges, mentoring is an essential requirement for survival and success in health services. The long-term success of future practitioners will require both an understanding and incorporation of mentoring in their skill set. The University of Virginia Medical Center ...

Genetic association between human chitinases and lung function in COPD

Human Genetics — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 06:34:36 +0100

Abstract Two primary chitinases have been identified in humans—acid mammalian chitinase (AMCase) and chitotriosidase (CHIT1). Mammalian chitinases have been observed to affect the host’s immune response. The aim of this study was to test for association between genetic variation in the chitinases and phenotypes related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Polymorphisms in the chitinase genes were selected based on previous associations with respiratory diseases. Polymorphisms that were associated with lung function level or rate of decline in the Lung Health Study (LHS) cohort were analyzed for association with COPD affection status in four other COPD case–control populations. Chitinase activity and protein levels were also related to genotypes. In the ca...

The Ability To Love Takes Root In Earliest Infancy

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 26 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

The ability to trust, love, and resolve conflict with loved ones starts in childhood - way earlier than you may think. That is one message of a new review of the literature in Current Directions in Psychological Science, a journal published by the Association for Psychological Science. "Your interpersonal experiences with your mother during the first 12 to 18 months of life predict your behavior in romantic relationships 20 years later," says psychologist Jeffry A. Simpson, the author, with University of Minnesota colleagues W. Andrew Collins and Jessica E. Salvatore... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Organization, complexity and allelic diversity of the porcine (Sus scrofa domestica) immunoglobulin lambda locus

Immunogenetics — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 20:13:39 +0100

Abstract We have characterized the organization, complexity, and expression of the porcine (Sus scrofa domestica) immunoglobulin lambda (IGL) light chain locus, which accounts for about half of antibody light chain usage in swine, yet is nearly totally unknown. Twenty-two IGL variable (IGLV) genes were identified that belong to seven subgroups. Nine genes appear to be functional. Eight possess stop codons, frameshifts, or both, and one is missing the V-EXON. Two additional genes are missing an essential cysteine residue and are classified as ORF (open reading frame). The IGLV genes are organized in two distinct clusters, a constant (C)-proximal cluster dominated by genes similar to the human IGLV3 subgroup, and a C-distal cluster dominated by genes most similar to the human...

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Medical Center Characteristics Associated with PSA Screening in Elderly Veterans with Limited Life Expectancy

Journal of General Internal Medicine — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 06:45:07 +0100

CONCLUSIONS Substantial practice variation exists for PSA screening in older men with limited life expectancy across VAs. The high center-specific correlation of screening among men with limited and favorable life expectancies indicates that PSA screening is poorly targeted according to life expectancy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ResearchPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11606-011-1945-9Authors Cynthia So, School of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USAKatharine A. Kirby, Division of Geriatrics, San Francisco VA Medical Center and University of California, San Francisco, CA, USAKala Mehta, Division of Geriatrics, San Francisco VA Medical Center and University of California, San Francisco, CA, USARichard M. Hoffman, New Mexico VA Health Ca...

Methylseleninic acid potentiates multiple types of cancer cells to ABT-737-induced apoptosis by targeting Mcl-1 and Bad

Apoptosis — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 16:54:34 +0100

Abstract ABT-737, a novel small molecule inhibitor of Bcl-2 family proteins, holds great promise to complement current cancer therapies. However many types of solid cancer cells are resistant to ABT-737. One practical approach to improve its therapeutic efficacy is to combine with the agents that can overcome such resistance to restore the sensitivity. In the present study, a second-generation selenium compound methylseleninic acid (MSeA) synergistically sensitized MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells, HT-29 human colon cancer cells and DU145 human prostate cancer cells to apoptosis induction by ABT-737, as evidenced by greater than additive enhancement of Annexin V/FITC positive (apoptotic) cells and activation of multiple caspases and PARP cleavage. Mechanistic investiga...

Mayo Clinic and University of Minnesota Renew Historical Commitment

Mayo Clinic Business News — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 14:34:36 +0100

Mayo Clinic today hosted University of Minnesota President Eric Kaler, Ph.D., to sign a renewal of a memorandum of understanding, tour Mayo Clinic, and meet with University of Minnesota students who are training and practicing at Mayo Clinic. (Source: Mayo Clinic Business News)

Eliminating untimely deaths of women from heart disease: Highlights from the Minnesota Women's Heart Summit

American Heart Journal — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 02:35:17 +0100

This report summarizes strategies identified during the conference to serve as springboards for more substantive future initiatives. These include, for example, standardized data collection and use of existing data sets to inform perspectives on sex-related cardiovascular issues, mandatory reporting of sex-specific data, and increased attention to underserved/high-risk women. Participants acknowledged that implementing these ideas would be challenging and recommended key priorities/next action steps such as providing services close to “point-of-life” rather than “point-of-care” and creation of policies and regulations so that resources and environmental modifications encouraging healthier lifestyle choices are promoted. Additional research is needed to improve identification, treat...

Reading Food Nutrition Labels

Sound Medicine — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 05:00:00 +0100

When you're shopping for food, do you check nutrition labels? A lot of the time you probably do. But how carefully do we actually parse all those numbers and percentages? To find out, Dan Graham, a research associate at the University of Minnesota who studies diet and physical activity, did an experiment where he studied around 200 people in a sort of simulated shopping scenario, using compute.... (Source: Sound Medicine)

Erratum to: Soy intake and risk of type 2 diabetes in Chinese Singaporeans

European Journal of Nutrition — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 16:55:42 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0290-4Authors Noel T. Mueller, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USAAndrew O. Odegaard, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USAMyron D. Gross, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USAWoon-Puay Koh, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, SingaporeMimi C. Yu, The Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USAJian-Min Yuan, Division of Epidemi...

Considerations for Endpoint Selection When Designing HIV Clinical Trials

Current Infectious Disease Reports — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 18:24:05 +0100

Abstract Selecting the primary endpoint is one of the most important decisions in designing clinical trials. Many HIV trials are powered for surrogate markers, often virologic suppression. Among 49 recently published Phase 3 or higher randomized HIV trials only 14% were powered for clinical outcomes such as the progression to AIDS, death, or serious non-AIDS diseases. We provide two examples where interventions modified the targeted surrogate markers but failed to provide clinical benefit. We review the use of surrogate and clinical endpoints, discuss the composition of clinical endpoints, and the need for endpoint verification. In HIV-infected individuals with CD4 cell counts above 200 cells/mm3 serious non-AIDS conditions such as cardiovascular, renal, hepatic diseases an...

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Wolfgang von Ohnesorge

Physics of Fluids — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 14:35:58 +0100

Gareth H. McKinley and Michael Renardy This manuscript got started when one of us (G.H.M.) presented a lecture at the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications at the University of Minnesota. The presentation included a photograph of Rayleigh and made frequent mention of the Ohnesorge number. When the other of us (M.R.) enquired abou ... [Phys. Fluids 23, 127101 (2011)] published Wed Dec 7, 2011. (Source: Physics of Fluids)

Flexible Workplaces Promote Better Health Behavior And Well-Being

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 08:00:00 +0100

A flexible workplace initiative improved employees' health behavior and well-being, including a rise in the amount and quality of sleep and better health management, according to a new study by University of Minnesota sociology professors Erin Kelly and Phyllis Moen, which appears in the December issue of the Journal of Health and Social Behavior. "Our study shows that moving from viewing time at the office as a sign of productivity, to emphasizing actual results can create a work environment that fosters healthy behavior and well-being," says Moen... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Across-Channel Timing Differences as a Potential Code for the Frequency of Pure Tones

JARO - Journal of the Association for Research in Otolaryngology — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 07:19:27 +0100

Abstract When a pure tone or low-numbered harmonic is presented to a listener, the resulting travelling wave in the cochlea slows down at the portion of the basilar membrane (BM) tuned to the input frequency due to the filtering properties of the BM. This slowing is reflected in the phase of the response of neurons across the auditory nerve (AN) array. It has been suggested that the auditory system exploits these across-channel timing differences to encode the pitch of both pure tones and resolved harmonics in complex tones. Here, we report a quantitative analysis of previously published data on the response of guinea pig AN fibres, of a range of characteristic frequencies, to pure tones of different frequencies and levels. We conclude that although the use of across-chann...

Is KRAS Mutation Associated with Interval Colorectal Cancers?

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:26:36 +0100

Conclusions KRAS mutation is inversely associated with interval cancers and with MSI, suggesting that it is a marker of the chromosomal instability pathway associated with slow tumor growth, and distinct from MSI rapidly growing cancers. Molecular characterization of colorectal cancers is helpful in determining underlying pathway and may determine therapy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s10620-011-1974-6Authors Aasma Shaukat, Division of Gastroenterology, VA Medical Center, University of Minnesota, One-Veterans Drive, 111-D, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USAMustafa Arain, Division of Gastroenterology, VA Medical Center, University of Minnesota, One-Veterans Drive, 111-D, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USARuth Anway, Division of Gastroen...

Radiologist uses CT scans to replicate antique violin

Physics Today News Picks — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

BBC: A radiologist at the University of Minnesota is using computed tomography (CT) to replicate antique musical instruments. Steven Sirr first got the idea to take a CT scan of a violin in 1988. Such scans, he discovered, can reveal characteristics of the wood, worm holes and cracks, and previous repairs, all of which help create an instrument’s unique sound. Teaming up with a couple of violin makers, Sirr used more than 1000 CT images to reproduce a 1704 Stradivarius violin borrowed from the US Library of Congress. Over the years, the team has scanned hundreds of instruments, including guitars, mandolins, and other violins. "The copies are amazingly similar to originals in their sound quality," said Sirr, who hopes that the process will allow more music students to have access to h...

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Quit Smoking Interventions Work For Some Smokers

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 23:00:00 +0100

The use of smoking cessation intervention programs and nicotine replacement therapy can be effective for some current smokers, researchers from the Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, and the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis reported in two separate articles in Archives of Internal Medicine. As background information to the first article, the authors wrote: "Despite advances in clinical care and policy, rates of smoking cessation have held constant in the past decade, indicating a need for novel approaches... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Is Ulcerative Colitis Associated with Survival Among Older Persons with Colorectal Cancer in the US? A Population-Based Case–Control Study

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 17:37:53 +0100

Conclusions Colorectal cancers tend to be diagnosed at earlier stages among persons with UC, but there is no difference in 3-year survival rates for colorectal cancer among individuals with and without UC. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s10620-011-1966-6Authors Aasma Shaukat, Section of Gastroenterology, VA Medical Center, University of Minnesota, Gastroenterology Section 111-D, 1-Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USANadim I. Salfiti, Section of Gastroenterology, VA Medical Center, University of Minnesota, Gastroenterology Section 111-D, 1-Veterans Drive, Minneapolis, MN 55417, USADaniel J. Virnig, Section of Gastroenterology, VA Medical Center, University of Minnesota, Gastroenterology Section 111-D, 1-Veterans Driv...

Evolution of the porcine (Sus scrofa domestica) immunoglobulin kappa locus through germline gene conversion

Immunogenetics — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:32 +0100

Abstract Immunoglobulin (IG) gene rearrangement and expression are central to disease resistance and health maintenance in animals. The IG kappa (IGK) locus in swine (Sus scrofa domestica) contributes to approximately half of all antibody molecules, in contrast to many other Cetartiodactyla, whose members provide the majority of human dietary protein and in which kappa locus utilization is limited. The porcine IGK variable locus is 27.9 kb upstream of five IG kappa J genes (IGKJ) which are separated from a single constant gene (IGKC) by 2.8 kb. Fourteen variable genes (IGKV) were identified, of which nine are functional and two are open reading frame (ORF). Of the three pseudogenes, IGKV3-1 contains a frameshift and multiple stop codons, IGKV7-2 contains multiple ...

S100A4 calcium-binding protein is key player in tumor progression and metastasis: preclinical and clinical evidence

Cancer and Metastasis Reviews — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 17:57:02 +0100

Abstract The fatality of cancer is mainly bestowed to the property of otherwise benign tumor cells to become malignant and invade surrounding tissues by circumventing normal tissue barriers through a process called metastasis. S100A4 which is a member of the S100 family of calcium-binding proteins has been shown to be able to activate and integrate pathways both intracellular and extracellular to generate a phenotypic response characteristic of cancer metastasis. A large number of studies have shown an increased expression level of S100A4 in various types of cancers. However, its implications in cancer metastasis in terms of whether an increased expression of S100A4 is a causal factor for metastasis or just another after effect of several other physiological and molecular ...

New projection shows global food demand doubling by 2050

EurekAlert! - Biology — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(National Science Foundation) Scientists David Tilman and Jason Hill of the University of Minnesota and colleagues found that producing the amount of food needed could significantly increase levels of carbon dioxide and nitrogen in the environment, and may cause the extinction of numerous species. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

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Tributes to cardiac surgical pioneers

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:18:33 +0100

“The only way to predict the future … is to invent it yourself.”—Norman E. Shumway, Jr In this issue, you will notice an interesting article that should have been printed 24 years ago: the presidential address of Norman E. Shumway, Jr, the 67th president of the American Association for Thoracic Surgery. His address titled, “Some thoughts from the other side of the table, or the last presidential address” is one of great insight, humor, and education. This address has been lying fallow for some time because it was never really completed and had some interesting sections that required carefully editing. His daughter, Dr Sara Shumway, a cardiac surgeon at the University of Minnesota, did a great job editing her father’s manuscript and was in favor of us publishing this article ...

Soy intake and risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Chinese Singaporeans

European Journal of Nutrition — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 06:53:37 +0100

Conclusions The current findings support a protective role for unsweetened soy foods and isoflavones on risk of type 2 diabetes. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ContributionPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00394-011-0276-2Authors Noel T. Mueller, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USAAndrew O. Odegaard, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USAMyron D. Gross, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, University of Minnesota, 1300 South 2nd St., Suite 300, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USAWoon-Puay Koh, Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National Univ...

Is there a Role for Surgery with Adequate Nodal Evaluation Alone in Gastric Adenocarcinoma?

Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 06:57:25 +0100

Conclusion Surgery alone with adequate nodal evaluation may have a role in low-risk gastric cancer. To corroborate these findings, surgery with adequate lymphadenectomy alone (as treatment arm) deserves consideration in the design of gastric cancer trials to provide effective yet resource-conserving, rather than maximally tolerated, treatments. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory 2011 SSAT Plenary PresentationPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s11605-011-1756-7Authors Vikas Dudeja, University of Minnesota Surgical Outcomes Research Center, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota and Minneapolis Veteran Affairs Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, USAElizabeth B. Habermann, University of Minnesota Surgical Outcomes Research Center, Department of Surgery, University of Minneso...

Even The Cleanest Wastewater Contributes To More 'Super Bacteria'

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 09:00:00 +0100

A new University of Minnesota study reveals that the release of treated municipal wastewater - even wastewater treated by the highest-quality treatment technology - can have a significant effect on the quantities of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, often referred to as "superbacteria," in surface waters. The study also suggests that wastewater treated using standard technologies probably contains far greater quantities of antibiotic-resistant genes, but this likely goes unnoticed because background levels of bacteria are normally much higher than the water studied in this research... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Bridging Taxonomic and Disciplinary Divides in Infectious Disease

EcoHealth — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 06:49:56 +0100

Abstract Pathogens traverse disciplinary and taxonomic boundaries, yet infectious disease research occurs in many separate disciplines including plant pathology, veterinary and human medicine, and ecological and evolutionary sciences. These disciplines have different traditions, goals, and terminology, creating gaps in communication. Bridging these disciplinary and taxonomic gaps promises novel insights and important synergistic advances in control of infectious disease. An approach integrated across the plant-animal divide would advance our understanding of disease by quantifying critical processes including transmission, community interactions, pathogen evolution, and complexity at multiple spatial and temporal scales. These advances require more substantial investment i...

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Skeletal Remodeling Following Clinically Relevant Radiation-Induced Bone Damage Treated with Zoledronic Acid

Calcified Tissue International — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 16:58:05 +0100

Abstract Our aim was to determine if zoledronic acid (ZA) changes 45Ca pharmacokinetics and bone microstructure in irradiated, ovary-intact (I) and irradiated, ovariectomized mice (OVX), two groups with different patterns of skeletal damage. The hind limbs of I and OVX BALB/c mice received a single 16-Gy radiation dose, simulating pre- and postmenopausal female cancer patients undergoing radiation treatment. All I and OVX mice were radiolabeled with 15 μCi 45Ca. Mice were treated with or without a 0.5 mg/kg injection of ZA. The time course of bone mineral remodeling was evaluated using a fecal 45Ca assay, measured by liquid scintillation. A group of nonirradiated, intact mice were used for the longitudinal evaluation of 45Ca biodistribution. Distal femur bone his...

New study finds that even the cleanest wastewater contributes to more 'super bacteria'

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) A new University of Minnesota study reveals that the release of treated municipal wastewater -- even wastewater treated by the highest-quality treatment technology -- can have a significant effect on the quantities of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, often referred to as "superbacteria," in surface waters. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Necessary Health Care and Basic Needs: Health Insurance Plans and Essential Benefits

Health Care Analysis — Wed, 09 Nov 2011 07:03:06 +0100

Abstract According to HealthCare.gov, by improving access to quality health for all Americans, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will reduce disparities in health insurance coverage. One way this will happen under the provisions of the ACA is by creating a new health insurance marketplace (a health insurance exchange) by 2014 in which “all people will have a choice for quality, affordable health insurance even if a job loss, job switch, move or illness occurs”. This does not mean that everyone will have whatever insurance coverage he or she wants. The provisions of the ACA require that each of the four benefit categories of plans (known as bronze, silver, gold and platinum) provides no less than the benefits available in an “essential health benefits package”. However,...

MicroRNAs in Opioid Pharmacology

Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 16:49:41 +0100

Abstract MicroRNAs (miRNA), a class of ~22-nucleotide RNA molecules, are important gene regulators that bind to the target sites of mRNAs to inhibit the gene expressions either through translational inhibition or mRNA destabilization. There are growing evidences that miRNAs have played several regulatory roles in opioid pharmacology. Like other research fields such as cancer biology, the area where numerous miRNAs are found to be involved in gene regulation, we assume that in opioid studies including research fields of drug additions and opioid receptor regulation, there may be more miRNAs waiting to be discovered. This review will summarize our current knowledge of miRNA functions on opioids biology and briefly describe future research directions of miRNAs related to opio...

Erratum to: Effects of expiratory tracheal gas insufflation in patients with severe head trauma and acute lung injury

Intensive Care Medicine — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:49:31 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ErratumPages 1-1DOI 10.1007/s00134-011-2397-8Authors Melcior Martínez-Pérez, Critical Care Center, Hospital de Sabadell, Corporació Parc Taulí, Institut Universitari Fundació Parc Taulí, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08206 Sabadell, SpainFrancesca Bernabé, Critical Care Center, Hospital de Sabadell, Corporació Parc Taulí, Institut Universitari Fundació Parc Taulí, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08206 Sabadell, SpainRocío Peña, Critical Care Center, Hospital de Sabadell, Corporació Parc Taulí, Institut Universitari Fundació Parc Taulí, Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona, 08206 Sabadell, SpainRafael Fernández, Critical Care Center, Hospital de Sabadell, Corporació Parc Taulí, Institut Universitari Fundació Parc Taulí, Uni...

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Recent Veterans In College Engage In Riskier Health Behaviors

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 07:00:00 +0100

College students who have served in the U.S. conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan are more likely than their non-veteran peers to use tobacco, drink in excess and engage in other behaviors that endanger their health and safety, according to a study that appeared in the latest issue of American Journal of Health Promotion. "We also found some protective behaviors where veterans showed particular strengths," said lead author Rachel Widome, Ph.D., of the Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research at the Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center and University of Minnesota... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Evaluation of a simulated pivot shift test: a biomechanical study

Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:54:10 +0100

Conclusions We found that the coupled internal rotation and valgus torques best recreated the anterolateral subluxation that occurs in the pivot shift in vitro. This study describes an anterolateral subluxation test for ACL integrity in the laboratory setting. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory KneePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00167-011-1744-1Authors Lars Engebretsen, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Oslo University Hospital and Faculty of Medicine, Kirkeveien 166, 0407 Oslo, NorwayCoen A. Wijdicks, Steadman Philippon Research Institute, Vail, CO, USAColin J. Anderson, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USABenjamin Westerhaus, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USARobert F. LaPrade, Stea...

How should society pay for services ecosystems provide?

EurekAlert! - Biology — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) Over the past 50 years, 60 percent of all ecosystem services have declined as a direct result of the conversion of land to the production of foods, fuels and fibers. This should come as no surprise, say seven of the world's leading environmental scientists, who met to collectively study the pitfalls of utilizing markets to induce people to take account of the environmental costs of their behavior and solutions. We are getting what we pay for. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

Clues To Young Children's Aggressive Behavior

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Children who are persistently aggressive, defiant, and explosive by the time they're in kindergarten very often have tumultuous relationships with their parents from early on. A new longitudinal study suggests that a cycle involving parenting styles and hostility between mothers and toddlers is at play. The study was done by researchers at the University of Minnesota and appears in the journal Child Development. The researchers looked at more than 260 mothers and their children, following them from the children's birth until first grade... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Canine epilepsy genetics

Mammalian Genome — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 05:37:59 +0100

Abstract There has been much interest in utilizing the dog as a genetic model for common human diseases. Both dogs and humans suffer from naturally occurring epilepsies that share many clinical characteristics. Investigations of inherited human epilepsies have led to the discovery of several mutated genes involved in this disease; however, the vast majority of human epilepsies remain unexplained. Mouse models of epilepsy exist, including single-gene spontaneous and knockout models, but, similar to humans, other, polygenic models have been more difficult to discern. This appears to also be the case in canine epilepsy genetics. There are two forms of canine epilepsies for which gene mutations have been described to date: the progressive myoclonic epilepsies (PMEs) and idiopa...

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Novel, Noninvasive System Designed That Allows Users To Control A Virtual Helicopter Using Only Their Minds

Health News from Medical News Today — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Scientists have designed a novel, noninvasive system that allows users to control a virtual helicopter using only their minds, as reported in the online journal PLoS ONE on Oct. 26. The researchers, led by Dr. Bin He of University of Minnesota, created an EEG-based, noninvasive brain-computer interface that allowed users to accurately and continually navigate a virtual helicopter simply by thinking about where they wanted to craft to go... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Treatment of Vision Loss in Giant Cell Arteritis

Current Treatment Options in Neurology — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:24:27 +0100

Opinion statement If giant cell arteritis is suspected as a cause of visual loss, emergent management is necessary. Clinical suspicion should prompt the practitioner to obtain laboratory studies and initiate treatment prior to establishing the diagnosis. The evaluation includes immediate erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C-reactive protein (CRP), and complete blood count (CBC). Treatment begins with high-dose intravenous corticosteroids. We recommend intravenous methylprednisolone (250 mg every 6 h) for 3 to 5 days. During that time, a temporal artery biopsy should be performed for pathologic diagnosis. We also begin daily adjunctive aspirin orally. After the initial bolus of intravenous corticosteroids, therapy transitions to oral prednisone administered...

“Better the devil you know”: a preliminary study of the differential modulating effects of reputation on reward processing for boys with and without externalizing behavior problems

European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:17:57 +0100

Abstract Very little is known about the neurobiological correlates of reward processing during social decision-making in the developing brain and whether prior social and moral information (reputations) modulates reward responses in youth as has been demonstrated in adults. Moreover, although externalizing behavior problems in youth are associated with deficits in reward processing and social cognition, a real-life social interaction paradigm using functional neuroimaging (fMRI) has not yet been applied to probe reward processing in such youth. Functional neuroimaging was used to examine the neural correlates of reward-related decision-making during a trust task in two samples of age-matched 11 to 16-year-old boys: with (n = 10) and without (n = 10) exte...

Bariatric Surgery Outcomes in the Elderly: An ACS NSQIP Study

Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 17:11:28 +0100

Conclusion This multi-hospital study demonstrates older age predicts short-term prolonged length of stay but not major events following bariatric surgery. Older age trends toward predicting mortality, but it is not statistically significant. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory 2011 SSAT Plenary PresentationPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s11605-011-1749-6Authors Robert B. Dorman, The University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USAAnasooya A. Abraham, The University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USAWaddah B. Al-Refaie, The University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USAHelen M. Parsons, The University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USASayeed Ikramuddin, The University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USAElizabeth B. Habermann, The University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA ...

Common genetic variants differentially influence the transition from clinically defined states of fasting glucose metabolism

Diabetologia — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:45:51 +0100

Conclusions/interpretation Common genetic risk variants at GCK, SLC30A8, IGF2BP2 and MTNR1B influence to different extents the development of IFG and the transition from IFG to type 2 diabetes. Our findings may have implications for understanding the genetic contribution of these variants to the development of IFG and type 2 diabetes. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00125-011-2353-8Authors G. A. Walford, Center for Human Genetic Research, Simches Research Building—CPZN 5.250, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114, USAT. Green, Center for Human Genetic Research, Simches Research Building—CPZN 5.250, Massachusetts General Hospital, 185 Cambridge Street, Boston, MA 02114, USAB. Neale, Center for Huma...

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Study Uncovers Clues To Young Children's Aggressive Behavior

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:00:00 +0100

University of Minnesota study uncovers clues to young children's aggressive behavior

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(New York University) Children who are persistently aggressive, defiant, and explosive by the time they're in kindergarten very often have tumultuous relationships with their parents from early on. A new longitudinal study suggests that a cycle involving parenting styles and hostility between mothers and toddlers is at play. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Location, Location, Location: Eye-Tracking Evidence that Consumers Preferentially View Prominently Positioned Nutrition Information

Journal of the American Dietetic Association — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 03:09:22 +0100

Conclusions: Nutrition Facts label position within a viewing area and position of specific components on a label relate to viewing. Eye tracking is a valuable technology for evaluating consumers' attention to nutrition information, informing nutrition labeling policy (eg, front-of-pack labels), and designing labels that best support healthy dietary decisions. (Source: Journal of the American Dietetic Association)

Study Confirms Chest X-Rays Ineffective for Detecting Lung Cancer

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 20:50:00 +0100

Early detection of cancer is often a key factor in successful treatment. When it comes to lung cancer, however, all screening methods are not created equal. In fact, getting an annual chest X-ray is no more likely to turn up evidence of lung cancer than normal visits to the physician. And chest X-rays are less likely to find early stage lung cancer than a low-dose helical computed tomography (LDCT) screening.So says a new study published online Wednesday by JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association . (The study will also appear in the November 2 issue.) The benefits of annual chest X-rays as a means of reducing the number of lung cancer deaths have been in question for some decades . In the JAMA study, researchers from a wide variety of institutions, including the National Can...

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NHS News Feed — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 17:08:00 +0100

Conclusion This systematic review screened over 40 years’ worth of published studies. It serves to highlight a relative lack of high quality evidence on the effectiveness of flu vaccine in certain age groups, one of which is the over 65s. The review provides good evidence that the flu vaccine provides moderate protection against infection and illness for the majority of adults, but that it is not 100% effective. One strength of the study is that it only included studies that used accurate methods of assessing flu infection. By doing this, the authors believe they have produced the ‘most accurate estimates of the efficacy and effectiveness of influenza vaccines’. While it is not possible to verify this claim, these results do provide valuable information to inform the current debate o...

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Flu Shots Not as Effective as Believed, New Study Shows

Drugs.com - Pharma News — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 13:10:31 +0100

From Saint Paul Pioneer Press (MN) (October 26, 2011) Oct. 26--The message to the general public remains: Get your flu shot. But a new report from University of Minnesota researchers suggests that manufacturers of flu vaccines must work to... (Source: Drugs.com - Pharma News)

People look at labels less than they think

Health News - UPI.com — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 23:05:22 +0100

MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 25 (UPI) -- Consumers think they look at food labels more than they actually do, University of Minnesota researchers suggest. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

With Thanks and Gratitude

Obesity Surgery — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 06:10:51 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialPages 1-2DOI 10.1007/s11695-011-0535-6Authors Henry Buchwald, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 290, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USANicola Scopinaro, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, Mayo Mail Code 290, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA Journal Obesity SurgeryOnline ISSN 1708-0428Print ISSN 0960-8923 (Source: Obesity Surgery)

Whether We Know It Or Not, We Can "See" Through One Eye At A Time

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Although portions of the visible world come in through one eye only, the brain instantaneously takes all that information and creates a coherent image. As far as we know, we "see" with both eyes at once. Now a new study suggests that the brain may know which eye is receiving information - and can turn around and tell that eye to work even harder. "We have demonstrated for the first time that you can pay attention through one eye, even when you have no idea where the image is coming from," says Peng Zhang, who conducted the study with University of Minnesota colleagues Yi Jiang and Sheng He... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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UCLA gets $2.8 million from NIH to develop saliva test to diagnose Sjögren's syndrome

UCLA Newsroom: Health Sciences — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 09:00:00 +0100

In August, tennis star Venus Williams withdrew from the U.S. Open, saying she was suffering from fatigue and other symptoms related to Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that results in the loss of the ability to produce saliva and tears. Her announcement focused public attention on this malady, which affects nearly 4 million Americans. While women are nine times more likely than men to develop Sjögren's, the disorder affects virtually every racial and ethnic group. Most patients develop symptoms after age 40, including dry eyes, dry mouth and often joint pain and chronic fatigue. And because of their paucity of saliva and the antibacterial chemicals it contains, patients may also develop tooth decay and cavities. While much is known about the symptoms of Sj...

Mesothelioma Death Toll Rising from Minnesota’s Taconite Mining Area

Asbestos and Mesothelioma News — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 22:28:53 +0100

An already abnormal mesothelioma death toll in northeast Minnesota continues to climb, according to an updated study at the University of Minnesota examining the nearby taconite mining industry. The study, which began in 2008 with funding from state lawmakers, confirmed what many suspected for years about the mines in the “Iron Range” area of Minnesota. Taconite is a lower-grade iron ore that is prevalent in the area. The industry employees approximately 3,000 workers. The study has focused on the estimated 46,000 people born after 1920 who worked in the industry. Early results show that 1,681 taconite workers developed some type of lung cancer, including 82 with confirmed cases of mesothelioma, which normally strikes 2,000 to 3,000 people a year in the United States. Jeffrey...

New U of M start-up may save lives of victims of massive blood loss and trauma

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) A new technology from the University of Minnesota has resulted in a start-up that may help prolong the lives of victims suffering from massive blood loss or trauma. The university's Office for Technology Commercialization has signed a license agreement with Denver-based Ariel Pharmaceuticals authorizing the private company to develop and commercialize the therapy. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Drugs of Abuse Effects on Immunity and Microbial Pathogenesis

Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 15:48:32 +0100

Abstract Substance abuse remains a serious medical, public health, and social problem. The impact on destructive public health and health costs compounded with the negative consequences of drugs abuse poses a significant toll on the economy. Despite significant advancement of research in the field treatment of and care of patients with substance abuse has lagged behind because of limited education and training of clinicians on substance abuse problems. The goal of the special issue is to provide the current status on the mechanisms underlying the increased prevalence of opportunistic infections in the drug abuse population, to identify important areas where further research would be beneficial and to open new avenues of investigation for therapeutic development. We aimed t...

Unintended Consequences of Implementing a National Performance Measurement System into Local Practice

Journal of General Internal Medicine — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 05:48:03 +0100

CONCLUSIONS Facility-level strategies undertaken to implement national PM systems may result in inappropriate clinical care, can distract providers from patient concerns, and may have a negative effect on patient education and autonomy. Further research is needed to ascertain how features of centralized PM systems influence whether measures are translated locally by facilities into more or less patient-centered policies and processes. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ResearchPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11606-011-1906-3Authors Adam A. Powell, Core Research Investigator, Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research (CCDOR), Minneapolis VA Health Care System, One Veterans Drive (111-0), Minneapolis, MN 55417, USAKatie M. White, School of Public Health, Universi...

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Increased Rate of Aspiration Pneumonia and Poor Discharge Outcome Among Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Following Intubation for Endovascular Treatment

Neurocritical Care — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 05:44:38 +0100

Conclusions Careful consideration should be exercised when emergently intubating acute ischemic stroke patients for endovascular treatment, because the rate of death and disability appears to be high. This increased rate is not explained by higher rates of subsequent aspiration pneumonia. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s12028-011-9638-0Authors Ameer E. Hassan, Zeenat Qureshi Stroke Research Center, Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, 12-100 PWB, 516 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, 55455 USASaqib A. Chaudhry, Zeenat Qureshi Stroke Research Center, Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, 12-100 PWB, 516 Delaware St. SE, Minneapolis, 55455 USAHaralabos Zacharatos, Zeenat Qureshi Stroke Research Center, De...

Minnesota discovery could make fuel and plastics production more energy efficient and cost effective

EurekAlert! - Biology — Wed, 12 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) A University of Minnesota team of researchers has overcome a major hurdle in the quest to design a specialized type of molecular sieve that could make the production of gasoline, plastics and various chemicals more cost effective and energy efficient. (Source: EurekAlert! - Biology)

Vitamin pills and risk of death studied

NHS News Feed — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:58:00 +0100

Conclusion The study has some strengths in that it had a large number of participants who were followed over a long period of time. Also, their supplement use was assessed at the start of the study, and also in 1997 and 2004, and these repeated assessments help to strengthen the argument for the reliability of the study. However, the study also has some limitations and it is not possible to give a definitive answer as to how these findings should be interpreted. For instance, the results were analysed using several different models, each designed to take into account the various confounding factors that could have affected the results. As an accompanying commentary points out, the most complex of these models found that the only supplements significantly associated with dying earlier were ...

Mayo Clinic wins grant to study ethics of sharing genetic test results with relatives

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(Mayo Clinic) A team of researchers, Gloria Petersen, Ph.D., of Mayo Clinic, Barbara Koenig, Ph.D., of the University of California, San Francisco, and Susan Wolf, J.D., of the University of Minnesota, have received a five-year, $2.5 million grant from the National Cancer Institute and the National Human Genome Research Institute to study the ethical and legal implications of providing genetic research results, such as DNA test results, from tissue donated to research bio banks to relatives of the donor. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Drugs of Abuse and the Immune System in Perspective

Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 15:42:02 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory PERSPECTIVEPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s11481-011-9319-yAuthors Phillip K. Peterson, Infectious Diseases and International Medicine Division, Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN 55415, USA Journal Journal of Neuroimmune PharmacologyOnline ISSN 1557-1904Print ISSN 1557-1890 (Source: Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology)

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Neurohormonal control of heart failure

Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

For nearly three decades, starting in the early 1970s, the cardiology research laboratories at the University of Minnesota served as the focal point for the discovery and implementation of much of the information we now apply to the management of heart failure. Director Jay Cohn, building on his expertise in hypertension and hemodynamics, led many creative and committed investigators in the exploration of the mechanisms responsible for increased sensitivity to afterload in heart failure. The neurohormonal hypothesis of heart failure led to the development of several pharmacologic tools, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, β-adrenergic blockers, and, later, angiotensin-receptor blockers. By the late 1990s, it was understood that neurohormonal antagonists could prevent the...

Impact of a rural interprofessional experience in rural communities on medical and pharmacy students.

Famly Medicine — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 04:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: The RIE of medical and pharmacy students is associated with an increase in perceived knowledge in all categories related to rural health care. PMID: 22002778 [PubMed - in process] (Source: Famly Medicine)

Delivery of nicotine in an extract of a smokeless tobacco product reduces its reinforcement-attenuating and discriminative stimulus effects in rats

Psychopharmacology — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 05:49:44 +0100

Conclusions The reinforcement-attenuating and discriminative stimulus effects of nicotine delivered in an extract of a commercial smokeless tobacco product differed from those of nicotine alone. Extracts of tobacco products may be useful for evaluating the abuse liability of those products and understanding the role of non-nicotine constituents in tobacco addiction. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original InvestigationPages 1-12DOI 10.1007/s00213-011-2514-yAuthors Andrew C. Harris, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, 914 South 8th St,. S-3 Labs, 860, Minneapolis, MN 55404, USAIrina Stepanov, Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USAPaul R. Pentel, Minneapolis Medical Research Foundation, 914 South 8th St,. S-3 Labs, 860, Minneap...

Giving Child Victims Of Domestic Violence A Voice

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Over half of the residents of battered women's shelters in the United States are children (National Network to End Domestic Violence, 2010). Now, a new, innovative online training program aims to elevate children's voices, so that service providers may better hear, understand, and respond to the children and families they serve. The project, called Honor Our Voices* was created by the Minnesota Center Against Violence and Abuse and the Center for Advanced Studies in Child Welfare at the School of Social Work at the University of Minnesota, with support from the Avon Foundation for Women... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Thirty-Day Outcomes in Patients Treated with En Bloc Colectomy and Pancreatectomy for Locally Advanced Carcinoma of the Colon

Journal of Gastrointestinal Surgery — Thu, 29 Sep 2011 06:16:59 +0100

Conclusions Perioperative outcomes with en bloc pancreatectomy and colectomy include increased pulmonary complications, blood transfusions, wound complications, and length of stay compared to patients treated with colectomy alone for colon cancer. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s11605-011-1691-7Authors Ian M. Paquette, Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, USABrian R. Swenson, Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, USAMary R. Kwaan, Department of Surgery, Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, University of Minnesota Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, USAAnders F. Mellgre...

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Where Would You Rather Live If You Were Insured? Assessing Community Uninsurance Spillover Effects on the Insured

Journal of Immigrant and Minority Health — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 05:51:49 +0100

This study sought to understand the cost, quality of, and access to health care for the insured population in the context of spillover effects resulting from community-level uninsurance. We examined the health care access, quality, and cost experienced by insured Latina mothers in two communities, Minneapolis, Minnesota and McAllen, Texas. These communities differ substantially by the size of the local population without health insurance coverage. Four focus groups were conducted with insured Latina mothers who were caring for at least one child in their household. Eleven and thirteen mothers participated in each community, respectively. The experiences of the insured population in McAllen were substantially different from the experiences of the insured population in Minneapolis. The...

New online learning module gives children of domestic violence a voice

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Tue, 27 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) Over half of the residents of battered women's shelters in the United States are children (National Network to End Domestic Violence, 2010). Now, a new, innovative online training program aims to elevate children's voices, so that service providers may better hear, understand, and respond to the children and families they serve. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

U-M Twin Cities medical facilities get new president

bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 21:30:06 +0100

Carolyn Wilson, the chief operating officer at the University of Chicago Medical Center, has been named president of the University of Minnesota Amplatz Children's Hospital and the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview. Wilson, a registered nurse who has held a variety of positions at the University of Chicago Medical Center over the last 13 years, will start her new job Nov. 1, according to a Fairview news release. She replaces Gordon Alexander, who left the position last year to become CEO of Children's Hospital of Central California. (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines)

Why the New Atheism is a boys' club | Victoria Bekiempis

Guardian Unlimited Science — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 13:30:01 +0100

This article was originally published as "The Unbelievers: New Atheism and the Old Boys' Club" in Bitch Magazine (no 51, Summer 2011) and is crossposted by kind permission of the editorAtheismReligionRichard DawkinsChristopher HitchensUnited StatesGenderFeminismWomenPhilosophyVictoria Bekiempisguardian.co.uk © 2011 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More Feeds (Source: Guardian Unlimited Science)

SLC39A2 and FSIP1 polymorphisms as potential modifiers of arsenic-related bladder cancer

Human Genetics — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 15:46:55 +0100

Abstract Arsenic is a carcinogen that contaminates drinking water worldwide. Accumulating evidence suggests that both exposure and genetic factors may influence susceptibility to arsenic-induced malignancies. We sought to identify novel susceptibility loci for arsenic-related bladder cancer in a US population with low to moderate drinking water levels of arsenic. We first screened a subset of bladder cancer cases using a panel of approximately 10,000 non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Top ranking hits on the SNP array then were considered for further analysis in our population-based case–control study (n = 832 cases and 1,191 controls). SNPs in the fibrous sheath interacting protein 1 (FSIP1) gene (rs10152640) and the solute carrier family 39,...

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Histological Versus Clinical Cirrhosis in Chronic Hepatitis C: Does Race/Ethnicity Really Matter?

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 15:47:23 +0100

Conclusions Using only histology, liver cirrhosis was significantly underestimated. In our cohort, severity of CHC was not clearly affected by race when alcohol use and features of the metabolic syndrome were taken into consideration. However, there was a trend for African Americans to have lower cirrhosis rates. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10620-011-1908-3Authors Mohamed Kohla, Department of Transplantation, California Pacific Medical Center, 2340 Clay Street, Suite 308, San Francisco, CA 94115, USAShunpei Iwata, Department of Transplantation, California Pacific Medical Center, 2340 Clay Street, Suite 308, San Francisco, CA 94115, USARoth Ea, Department of Transplantation, California Pacific Medical Center, 2340 Clay S...

Recent Blackout Highlights Nation's Aging Electricity Grid

Scientific American - Official RSS Feed — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 17:00:00 +0100

Experts say the cascading blackout that put millions of Westerners in the dark last week was no surprise: Major power outages have more than doubled in the last decade."This is just evidence that we need a smarter, better, more secure system," said Massoud Amin, director of the Technological Leadership Institute at the University of Minnesota, who has analyzed federal data on the reliability of the nation's electric grid. [More] (Source: Scientific American - Official RSS Feed)

Arthroplasty options in femoral-neck fracture: answers from the national registries

International Orthopaedics — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 13:43:56 +0100

Conclusion Our review of data from national registries supports the continued use of bipolar hemiarthroplasty in femoral-neck fracture in the elderly and identifies age, method of fixation and surgical approach as important prognostic variables in determining implant survival. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Review ArticlePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00264-011-1354-zAuthors Arun Kannan, Orthopaedics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USARamprasad Kancherla, Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Delhi, IndiaStephen McMahon, Malabar Orthopaedic Institute, Monash University, Orthopaedics and The Avenue Hospital, Orthopaedics, Melbourne, Victoria, AustraliaGabrielle Hawdon, Malabar Orthopaedic Institute, The Avenue Hospital, Orthopaedic...

Obituary Dr. Eduardo Ruiz

Journal of Pediatric Urology — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Our dear friend and colleague Dr. Eduardo Ruiz passed away on June 8, 2011. Eduardo was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on September 15, 1956. After receiving his medical degree from Universidad de Medicina de Buenos Aires, he completed his Pediatric Surgery residency at Ricardo Gutierrez Children Hospital, in Buenos Aires. Very soon during his training he realized that his real passion was Pediatric Urology, and began to work with Dr. J.C. Puigdevall who became his mentor, role model and close friend. Seeking further training, he rotated with Dr. J.M. Garat in Barcelona, Spain and with Dr. R. Gonzalez in the University of Minnesota, USA. Since 1984 he was Chief of the Division of Pediatric Urology at Hospital Italiano, Buenos Aires. In 2003, Dr. Ruiz became Chairman of the Department of P...

Efficacy of the Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Compared to Medically Managed Controls in Meeting the American Diabetes Association Composite End Point Goals for Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Obesity Surgery — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 05:55:37 +0100

Conclusions RYGB achieves the ADA composite endpoint more frequently than conventional therapy and with less medication. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Clinical ResearchPages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s11695-011-0494-yAuthors Daniel B. Leslie, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 290, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USARobert B. Dorman, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 290, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USAFederico J. Serrot, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 290, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USATherese W. Swan, Department of Surgery, University of Minnesota, 420 Delaware Street SE, MMC 290, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USATodd A. Kellogg, Department of Surgery, University of Minn...

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Kids who play sports apt to be overweight

Health News - UPI.com — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 04:01:56 +0100

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 15 (UPI) -- Kids who play sports are more physically active than those who don't, but they are just as likely to be overweight, a University of Minnesota researcher says. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Adult vitamin D consumption declines

Health News - UPI.com — Thu, 15 Sep 2011 03:41:14 +0100

MINNEAPOLIS, Sept. 14 (UPI) -- A University of Minnesota researcher says vitamin D in adult diets has been on the decline for the past 25 years. (Source: Health News - UPI.com)

Fruit and vegetable consumption is inversely associated with having pancreatic cancer

Cancer Causes and Control — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 15:44:31 +0100

Conclusions We provide evidence that lower consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber is associated with having pancreatic cancer. This may have a role in developing prevention strategies. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original paperPages 1-13DOI 10.1007/s10552-011-9838-0Authors Rick J. Jansen, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USADennis P. Robinson, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USARachael Z. Stolzenberg-Solomon, Department of Epidemiology, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USAWilliam R. Bamlet, Department of Health Sciences Research, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USAMariza de Andrade...

Comparison of circadian characteristics for cytotoxic lymphocyte subsets in non-small cell lung cancer patients versus controls

Clinical and Experimental Medicine — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 15:41:50 +0100

Abstract Lymphocyte subsets are major cellular components of the adaptive immune response and in most cases show 24-h (circadian) variations in health. In order to determine overall levels and circadian characteristics of cytotoxic natural killer (NK) and T and B lymphocyte subsets, blood samples were collected every 4 h for 24 h from eleven male controls (C) without neoplastic disease and nine men with untreated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and analyzed for 3 hormones (melatonin, cortisol, and interleukin 2 [IL2]) and for 11 lymphocyte subpopulations classified by cell surface clusters of differentiation (CD) and antigen receptors. Circadian rhythmicity for each variable was evaluated by ANOVA and 24 h cosine fitting and groups compared. Rhythms in mel...

Early Outcomes and Prognostic Factors for Left Atrioventricular Valve Reoperation After Primary Atrioventricular Septal Defect Repair

Pediatric Cardiology — Sat, 10 Sep 2011 15:41:33 +0100

This study aimed to identify early outcomes of and prognostic factors for left atrioventricular valve (LAVV) reoperation after primary atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) repair. A retrospective cohort study was performed using the Pediatric Cardiac Care Consortium database, which included 370 patients with previously repaired AVSDs who subsequently underwent LAVV reoperation between 1982 and 2007. Of these patients, 243 underwent LAVV repair, and 127 underwent LAVV replacement. Median time to first reoperation after primary repair was 0.67 years in the repair subgroup and 0.18 years in the replacement subgroup. Thirty-day survival was significantly poorer in the replacement subgroup compared with the repair subgroup (P = 0.0002). In multivariable analysis, indep...

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Awards Announced to Enhance the Public Health Infrastructure

The Cornflower — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 17:03:42 +0100

“U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced today over $40 million in grant funding, partly supported by the Affordable Care Act, to state, tribal, local and territorial health departments and several schools of public health to enhance the nation’s public health infrastructure and strengthen the public health workforce. Awarded in nearly every state, this funding will improve the delivery of necessary public health services in communities, cities and states across the country.” Read more about it here: http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2011pres/08/20110831a.html. Some of the CDC/HRSA grantees are right here in our region: State Project Grantee Amount Illinois Strengthening Public Health Infrastructure for Improved Health Outcomes Gra...

Learning: What Matters Most.

Physical Therapy — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Jensen GM Abstract This excerpt was created in the absence of an abstract.Dr Jensen is a leader known nationally and internationally for scholarly contributions related to expert practice, clinical reasoning, professional ethics, and educational theory and application. Although her vision and work often center on physical therapy, she reaches beyond the profession to have an impact on health professions and higher education more broadly. She has served on several editorial boards, including Physical Therapy and the Journal of Physical Therapy Education, and is currently deputy editor for Physiotherapy Research International and Associate Editor for Physiotherapy Theory and Practice and is on the editorial board of Qualitative Health Research. Dr Jensen is author or coautho...

Associations between hurtful weight-related comments by family and significant other and the development of disordered eating behaviors in young adults

Journal of Behavioral Medicine — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:51:38 +0100

This study expands on the existing research by examining associations between hurtful weight comments by family and a significant other and disordered eating in young adults. Data come from 1,902 young adults (mean age 25) who completed surveys in 1998, 2003 and 2009. Correlations were examined between receiving hurtful comments from family and significant others, and four disordered eating behaviors in young adulthood, adjusting for prior disordered eating and prior teasing. Disordered eating behaviors were common in young adulthood, and were associated with hearing hurtful weight-related comments from family members and a significant other, for both females and males. Disordered eating prevention activities, which include messages about the potential harm associated with hurtful w...

The Minnesota Center Against Violence and Abuse (MINCAVA): Providing Research, Education, and Access to Information on Violence Against Women and Children. - Witt JL, Edleson JL.

SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated) — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 22:31:35 +0100

The Minnesota Center Against Violence and Abuse (MINCAVA) was established in 1994 through an appropriation of the Minnesota Legislature. Located at the University of Minnesota, MINCAVA conducts original research, develops extensive collections of translati... (Source: SafetyLit: All (Unduplicated))

Impact of global health residency training on medical knowledge of immigrant health.

The American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Authors: Bjorklund AB, Cook BA, Hendel-Paterson BR, Walker PF, Stauffer WM, Boulware DR Abstract Abstract. Lack of global health knowledge places immigrants at risk of iatrogenic morbidity. Although global health education programs have grown in popularity, measurable impact is lacking. We previously surveyed 363 physicians in training across 15 programs in four countries in 2004 regarding basic parasite knowledge and recognition of Strongyloides risk through a theoretical case scenario. In 2005, the University of Minnesota implemented a formal global health training program (GHP). In 2009, the identical survey was repeated. Strongyloidiasis recognition increased from 11.1% (19/171) in 2004 to 39.4% (50/127) in 2009 (P < 0.001). Trainees participating in formal didactic and inte...

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Nursing Care of the Pancreas Transplant Recipient

Critical Care Nursing Clinics of North America — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 04:00:00 +0100

Pancreas transplantation was first successfully performed (simultaneously with a kidney transplant) at the University of Minnesota in Minneapolis in 1966 by Drs Richard Lillehei and William Kelly. The first two recipients achieved the goal of insulin independence, albeit for short time spans of only months, but were plagued by complications. The first simultaneous kidney and pancreas grafts failed because of pancreatic fistula and rejection, but the patient ultimately died of pulmonary embolism, and the second recipient died 5 months posttransplant with functioning grafts of infection after experiencing multiple rejection episodes. However, these two cases demonstrated that euglycemia could be restored with a pancreas transplant graft, forever altering the future of transplantation. Althou...

Morphine Alters M. bovis Infected Microglia’s Ability to Activate γδ T Lymphocytes

Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:54:51 +0100

This study was designed to determine if Mycobacterium infected microglia activate γδT lymphocytes and if the opiate morphine alters the capability of microglia to activate γδT lymphocytes. γδT lymphocytes proliferated, produced IFN-γ, and demonstrated cytolytic response upon exposure to Mycobacterium bovis infected microglia. IFN-γ, and antigen specific cytotoxicity were both markedly impaired due to morphine treatment. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory ORIGINAL ARTICLEPages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s11481-011-9308-1Authors Michael Olin, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USAKeumhwa Choi, Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1352 Boyd Ave., St. Paul, MN 55108, USAThomas W. Molitor, Veterinary...

Human type 2 17beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in umbilical vein and artery endothelial cells: differential inactivation of sex steroids according to the vessel type

Endocrine — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 15:58:50 +0100

In this study, 17βHSD2 expression level and enzymatic activity, and estrogen receptor α and β expression levels, were measured in endothelial cell cultures from umbilical arteries (HUAEC) and vein (HUVEC) using real-time quantitative PCR, western blot, and radiolabeled steroids. 17βHSD2-specific activities were also measured in proximal and distal segments of freshly isolated umbilical cord arteries and vein. 17βHSD2 mRNA level and activity were higher in HUAEC than in HUVEC. Activity was higher in umbilical arteries than in the umbilical vein. In arteries, enzymatic activity was higher near the placenta, suggesting a gradient of expression. No difference was found in ERα expression, whereas ERβ was expressed at a higher level in HUAEC than in HUVEC. Expression profiles of est...

A synthetic decursin analog with increased in vivo stability suppresses androgen receptor signaling in vitro and in vivo

Investigational New Drugs — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 15:49:34 +0100

We report here that a synthetic decursin analog, decursinol phenylthiocarbamate (DPTC), has greater in vivo stability than the parent compounds. DPTC-decursinol conversion was undetectable in mice. Furthermore, in LNCaP cells, DPTC decreased prostate specific antigen (PSA) expression, down-regulated AR abundance and mRNA and inhibited AR nuclear translocation. The effect of DPTC on AR and PSA mRNA and protein abundance was also observed in VCaP cells expressing wild type AR. DPTC inhibited growth of both PCa cell lines through G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, as did decursin and DA. Furthermore, i.p. administration of DPTC for 3 weeks suppressed the expression of AR target genes probasin and Nkx3.1 in mouse prostate glands. Overall, our data suggest that DPTC represents a prot...

Cellular Pathway Essential To Removing Damaged Mitochondria Defined: Findings Could Have Important Implications For Current Cancer Treatments

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 07:00:00 +0100

In a joint research effort with researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and with help from scientists at The University of Pennsylvania, The University of Minnesota, and the National Institutes of Health, investigators from the Florida campus of The Scripps Research Institute have defined a specific protein complex that allows cells to rid themselves of damaged mitochondria, which are the energy producing machines of the cell... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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GMR RAC Members Announced

The Cornflower — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 16:35:53 +0100

The GMR is pleased to announce the 20 members of the 2011-2016 Regional Advisory Council (RAC). Members include the 10 representatives chosen by their state’s health sciences library group (indicated by state) and additional members selected for their varieties of expertise. Welcome new RAC members! Mary Blackwelder, Medical College of Wisconsin Todd Wehr Library, Milwaukee, WI Jane Blumenthal, University of Michigan Taubman Medical Library,Ann Arbor, MI Pam Bradigan, Ohio State University Prior Health Sciences Library, Columbus, OH Arlis Dittmer, Blessing Health System, Blessing Health Professions Library, Quincy, IL Liz Fine (MN), University of Minnesota Health Sciences Libraries, Minneapolis, MN Martha Hardy, Metropolitan State University Library Services, St. Paul, MN Heather Ho...

Study Identifies Psychological Factors That Keep Young Adults Employed

Health News from Medical News Today — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0100

Today's rapid economic change and labor market turbulence make early careers particularly unstable, but new research to be presented at the 106th Annual Meeting of the American Sociological Association shows that young workers with certain characteristics may weather turbulent times better than their peers. "The current 'Great Recession' in Europe and America has had particularly severe consequences for young workers," said University of Minnesota sociology professor Jeylan Mortimer. "They suffer high unemployment rates with lasting consequences for their careers... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Scripps Research scientists define cellular pathway essential to removing damaged mitochondria

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Tue, 23 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(Scripps Research Institute) In a joint research effort with researchers at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and with help from scientists at the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Minnesota, and the National Institutes of Health, investigators from the Florida campus of the Scripps Research Institute have defined a specific protein complex that allows cells to rid themselves of damaged mitochondria, which are the energy producing machines of the cell. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Magnetic resonance diffusion tensor imaging (MRDTI) of the optic nerve and optic radiations at 3T in children with neurofibromatosis type I (NF-1)

Pediatric Radiology — Sat, 20 Aug 2011 15:50:58 +0100

Conclusion MRDTI can evaluate the optic pathways in children with NF-I. Statistically significant abnormalities were detected in the diffusion tensor metrics of the optic nerves and radiations in children with NF-I compared to age-matched controls. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-7DOI 10.1007/s00247-011-2216-yAuthors Christopher G. Filippi, Department of Radiology, University of Vermont School of Medicine-FAHC, 111 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT 05401, USAAaron Bos, University of Vermont School of Medicine, Burlington, VT, USAJoshua P. Nickerson, Department of Radiology, University of Vermont School of Medicine-FAHC, 111 Colchester Ave, Burlington, VT 05401, USAMichael B. Salmela, Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota School of...

Morphine Induces Splenocyte Trafficking into the CNS

Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 16:01:48 +0100

The objective of the study was to use in vivo bioluminescent imaging to determine morphine’s effect on the trafficking pattern of splenocytes systemically and into the CNS either in a naïve state or following a neuroinflammatory stimulus. A neuroinflammatory response was induced by intracerebrally administering a DNA IFN-γ DNA plasmid into morphine-dependent or placebo wildtype mice. Mice with or without a neurostimulus received adoptively transferred firefly luciferase transgenic splenocytes and imaged. Morphine dependence significantly altered the inherent ability of splenocytes to traffic into the spleen, and lead to non-directed chaotic trafficking throughout the animal, including into the CNS. The morphine-mediated effects on trafficking were blocked by the antagonist naltre...

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Recruitment by sustained inflation: time for a change

Intensive Care Medicine — Fri, 19 Aug 2011 15:59:07 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory EditorialPages 1-3DOI 10.1007/s00134-011-2329-7Authors John J. Marini, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, USA Journal Intensive Care MedicineOnline ISSN 1432-1238Print ISSN 0342-4642 (Source: Intensive Care Medicine)

Immunomodulatory Properties of Kappa Opioids and Synthetic Cannabinoids in HIV-1 Neuropathogenesis

Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 06:02:53 +0100

Abstract Anti-retroviral therapy (ART) has had a tremendous impact on the clinical outcomes of HIV-1 infected individuals. While ART has produced many tangible benefits, chronic, long-term consequences of HIV infection have grown in importance. HIV-1-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) represents a collection of neurological syndromes that have a wide range of functional cognitive impairments. HAND remains a serious threat to AIDS patients, and there currently remains no specific therapy for the neurological manifestations of HIV-1. Based upon work in other models of neuroinflammation, kappa opioid receptors (KOR) and synthetic cannabinoids have emerged as having neuroprotective properties and the ability to dampen pro-inflammatory responses of glial cells; propertie...

Enhancement of doxorubicin cytotoxicity of human cancer cells by tyrosine kinase inhibition of insulin receptor and type I IGF receptor

Breast Cancer Research and Treatment — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 05:59:18 +0100

In this study, we examined whether inhibition of the tyrosine kinase activity of this receptor family would also enhance chemotherapy response. Cis-3-[3-(4-methyl-piperazin-l-yl)-cyclobutyl]-1-(2-phenyl-quinolin-7-yl)-imidazo[1,5-a]pyrazin-8-ylamine (PQIP) inhibited IGF1R and insulin receptor (InsR) kinase activity and downstream activation of ERK1/2 and Akt in MCF-7 and LCC6 cancer cells. PQIP inhibited both monolayer growth and anchorage-independent growth in a dose-dependent manner. PQIP did not induce apoptosis, but rather, PQIP treatment was associated with an increase in autophagy. We examined whether sequential or combination therapy of PQIP with DOX could enhance growth inhibition. PQIP treatment together with DOX or DOX followed by PQIP significantly inhibited anchorage-ind...

Urolithiasis/Endourology

The Journal of Urology — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

O. Ortiz-Alvarado, R. Miyaoka, C. Kriedberg, A. Moeding, M. Stessman and M. Monga Department of Urologic Surgery, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota (Source: The Journal of Urology)

Smoking heart risk greater for women

NHS News Feed — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 17:10:00 +0100

Conclusion This was a well-conducted systematic review on gender-related CHD risk in smokers that has searched all relevant literature and analysed data on 3.9 million participants from 86 eligible cohort studies. Combining these results they were able to calculate the difference in risk of CHD from smoking in women compared with men, and found the risk to be 25% higher in women. The authors’ conclusions from this review are appropriate. It is not possible to tell why there is this apparent difference in risk of CHD between men and women, and whether this could be due to biological differences or to differences in smoking behaviour. In particular, it was not possible to gain information on smoking behaviours from the individual studies, so we cannot tell how males and females differ in t...

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Women Who Smoke 25% More Likely To Develop Coronary Heart Disease Than Male Smokers

Health News from Medical News Today — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Published Online first by The Lancet a new study revealed that women have a 25% higher increased risk of developing coronary heart disease conferred by smoking in comparison with men. Researchers suggest, cigarette toxins may have a more powerful effect on women and the increased risk may be due to physiological differences between the sexes. The study was conducted by Dr Rachel R Huxley, Division of Epidemiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA, and Dr Mark Woodward, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Heart disease risk greater for women smokers

Guardian Unlimited Science — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 08:58:20 +0100

Huge US study published in the Lancet finds risk of heart disease linked to smoking is 25% higher for womenSmoking is more likely to give women heart disease than men, a study has found.Toxic chemicals in tobacco smoke may have a more potent effect on women due to biological differences, scientists believe.US researchers analysed pooled data on around 4 million individuals from 86 studies. After adjusting for other risk factors, they found the increased risk of heart disease linked to smoking was 25% higher for women.The longer a woman smoked, the greater her heart disease risk was compared with that of a man who had smoked for the same length of time. A woman's extra risk increased by 2% for every additional year she had been smoking.The findings are published on Thursday in an online edi...

Protracted manifestations of acute dependence after a single morphine exposure

Psychopharmacology — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 05:54:47 +0100

Conclusions Together with existing literature, these results suggest acute as well as chronic opiate exposure leave rodents persistently vulnerable to express anxiety-like behavior in response to opioid receptor antagonists or stressful experience. The adaptations in brain function that underlie this protracted state of dependence may provide a foundation for the escalation of withdrawal severity that develops over repeated opiate exposure, and increase the likelihood of progression from casual drug use to compulsive drug abuse. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s00213-011-2425-yAuthors Patrick E. Rothwell, Department of Neuroscience, University of Minnesota, 321 Church St SE, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USAMark J. Thomas, Department of Neuroscience, Uni...

University of Minnesota researchers reveal Wikipedia gender biases

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) Computer science researchers in the University of Minnesota's College of Science and Engineering are leading a team that has confirmed a substantial gender gap among editors of Wikipedia and a corresponding gender-oriented disparity in the content. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Advancing islet transplantation: from engraftment to the immune response

Diabetologia — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:48:52 +0100

Abstract The promise and progress of islet transplantation for treating type 1 diabetes has been challenged by obstacles to patient accessibility and long-term graft function that may be overcome by integrating emerging technologies in biomaterials, drug delivery and immunomodulation. The hepatic microenvironment and traditional systemic immunosuppression stress the vulnerable islets and contribute to the limited success of transplantation. Locally delivering extracellular matrix proteins and trophic factors can enhance transplantation at extrahepatic sites by promoting islet engraftment, revascularisation and long-term function while avoiding unintended systemic effects. Cell- and cytokine-based therapies for immune cell recruitment and reprogramming can inhibit local and...

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Natural Food Preservative That Kills Food-Borne Bacteria

Health News from Medical News Today — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 07:00:00 +0100

University of Minnesota researchers have discovered and received a patent for a naturally occurring lantibiotic - a peptide produced by a harmless bacteria - that could be added to food to kill harmful bacteria like salmonella, E. coli and listeria. The U of M lantibiotic is the first natural preservative found to kill gram-negative bacteria, typically the harmful kind. "It's aimed at protecting foods from a broad range of bugs that cause disease," said Dan O'Sullivan, a professor of food science and nutrition in the university's College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Deterioration of glycemic control after corticosteroid administration in islet autotransplant recipients: a cautionary tale

Acta Diabetologica — Sun, 07 Aug 2011 05:52:21 +0100

We present four IAT recipients treated with oral or injected corticosteroids after transplant for medical conditions unrelated to chronic pancreatitis or TPIAT. Hyperglycemia or insulin resistance was evident in all four patients, including reversion to long-term insulin therapy in two patients. One patient receiving corticosteroid injections had a transient increase in hemoglobin A1c (+0.6% above baseline), and one patient given a one time dose of oral dexamethasone exhibited hyperglycemia despite high insulin (>200 mU/L) and C-peptide (15.3 ng/mL) production on an oral glucose tolerance test. IAT recipients have insufficient islet mass to compensate for the insulin resistance induced by corticosteroids. Caution should be given to using these agents in IAT recipients. W...

Delta Dental gives $3.5M for new U-M children's dental clinic

bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 15:31:54 +0100

Delta Dental of Minnesota Trust said Thursday it is giving $3.5 million to the University of Minnesota School of Dentistry for the formation of a children's dental clinic. The gift is the largest in the history of the dental school, Judith Buchanan, interim dean of the School of Dentistry, said in a news release. The University of Minnesota Pediatric Dental Clinic will be adjacent to the Amplatz Children's Hospital on the west bank campus of the University of Minnesota Medical Center. It will be the only hospital-based clinic for children in Minnesota, Eagan-based Delta Dental said in a news release... (Source: bizjournals.com Health Care:Biotechnology headlines)

Researchers Find New Bacterium Causing Tick-Borne Illness Ehrlichiosis In Wis., Minn.

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 08:00:00 +0100

A new tick-borne bacterium infecting humans with ehrlichiosis has been discovered in Wisconsin and Minnesota. It was identified as a new strain of bacteria through DNA testing conducted at Mayo Clinic. The findings appear in the Aug. 4 edition of the New England Journal of Medicine. Doctors at Mayo Clinic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the University of Minnesota, the University of Wisconsin, and state and local health departments say the new species from the Ehrlichia genus can cause a feverish illness in humans... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

U of Minnesota researchers discover a natural food preservative that kills food-borne bacteria

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) University of Minnesota researchers have discovered and received a patent for a naturally occurring lantibiotic -- a peptide produced by a harmless bacteria -- that could be added to food to kill harmful bacteria like salmonella, E. coli and listeria. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Improved Brain Imaging Techniques Used To Discover A Better Approach To Diagnosing Epilepsy

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 07:00:00 +0100

Using state-of-the-art, 7 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology, University of Minnesota Medical School researchers may have uncovered a better approach to diagnosing epilepsy. In the process, the team was able to cure eight patients of all epileptic symptoms. Epilepsy, a neurological disorder causing repeated seizures or convulsions, impacts about one percent of the population, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The most common type of epilepsy is temporal lobe epilepsy, caused by scarring inside the hippocampus, a major memory center of the brain... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

U of M researchers use improved imaging technique; discover a better approach to diagnosing epilepsy

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) Using state-of-the-art, 7 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology, University of Minnesota Medical School researchers may have uncovered a better approach to diagnosing epilepsy. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

Analysis of family- and population-based samples in cohort genome-wide association studies

Human Genetics — Fri, 29 Jul 2011 16:02:58 +0100

We present simulation studies based on Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) pedigree structures to compare the performance of several popular methods of GWA analysis for both quantitative and dichotomous traits in cohort studies. We evaluate approaches suitable for analysis of families, and combined the best performing methods with population-based samples either by meta-analysis, or by pooled analysis of family- and population-based samples (mega-analysis), comparing type 1 error and power. We further assess practical considerations, such as availability of software and ability to incorporate covariates in statistical modeling, and demonstrate our recommended approaches through quantitative and binary trait analysis of HDL cholesterol (HDL-C) in 2,553 MESA family- and popula...

U researchers look to dogs to better understand intricacies of bone cancer

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 04:00:00 +0100

(University of Minnesota) A team led by Dr. Jaime Modiano, a College of Veterinary Medicine and Masonic Cancer center expert in comparative medicine, discovered a gene pattern that distinguishes the more severe form of bone cancer from a less aggressive form in dogs. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Clinical Trial Design in the Neurocritical Care Unit

Neurocritical Care — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 05:49:33 +0100

Abstract Clinical trials provide a robust mechanism to advance science and change clinical practice across the widest possible spectrum. Fundamental in the Neurocritical Care Society’s mission is to promote Quality Patient Care by identifying and implementing best medical practices for acute neurological disorders that are consistent with the current scientific knowledge. The next logical step will be to foster rapid growth of our scientific body of evidence, to establish and disseminate these best practices. In this manuscript, five invited experts were impaneled to address questions, identified by the conference organizing committee as fundamental issues for the design of clinical trials in the neurological intensive care unit setting. Content Type Journal ArticleP...

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Novel acridine-based agents with topoisomerase II inhibitor activity suppress mesothelioma cell proliferation and induce apoptosis

Investigational New Drugs — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:45:24 +0100

This study evaluates the anti-proliferative activity of series of acridine-based catalytic inhibitors of hTopoII using four mesothelioma cell lines (H513, H2372, H2461, and H2596). The results indicate these compounds inhibit malignant cell proliferation with EC50 values ranging from 6.9 to 32 μM. Experiments are also performed that show that combination therapies may be used to increase potency. Based on the results of PARP cleavage and Guava Nexin assay, it is concluded that the primary mode of cell death is by apoptosis. The results are consistent with prior work involving pancreatic cancer and hTopoII catalytic inhibitors and suggest substituted acridines may hold promise in treating malignant mesothelioma. Content Type Journal ArticlePages 1-6DOI 10.1007/s10637-011-972...

Opioid Drug Abuse and Modulation of Immune Function: Consequences in the Susceptibility to Opportunistic Infections

Journal of NeuroImmune Pharmacology — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 15:43:43 +0100

Abstract Infection rate among intravenous drug users (IDU) is higher than the general public, and is the major cause of morbidity and hospitalization in the IDU population. Epidemiologic studies provide data on increased prevalence of opportunistic bacterial infections such as TB and pneumonia, and viral infections such as HIV-1 and hepatitis in the IDU population. An important component in the intravenous drug abuse population and in patients receiving medically indicated chronic opioid treatment is opioid withdrawal. Data on bacterial virulence in the context of opioid withdrawal suggest that mice undergoing withdrawal had shortened survival and increased bacterial load in response to Salmonella infection. As the body of evidence in support of opioid dependency and its im...

Women May Be Able To More Efficiently Fight Off Prenatal Infections Following Manipulation Of An Immune Suppressive Cell Type

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 24 Jul 2011 07:00:00 +0100

A normal but concerning consequence of pregnancy is the fact that pregnant women are more susceptible to infection. University of Minnesota Medical School researchers have identified the underlying mechanisms for this physiologic immune suppression that may lead to new therapies to help ward off infections during pregnancy. In pregnancy, immune system suppressing cells (called regulatory T cells) increase in number to protect the baby from attack by the mother's immune system... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

The origins of open heart surgery at the University of Minnesota 1951 to 1956

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery — Fri, 22 Jul 2011 03:55:46 +0100

As a senior medical student in May 1951, I recall the excitement in the surgery department when Dr Clarence Dennis, who later became Chairman at Downstate University in New York, and his staff were in an operating suite to repair an atrial septal defect in a child by using open heart surgical techniques. They were using a heart–lung machine of the team’s design; later, a second procedure was performed, but neither effort was successful. (Source: The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery)