bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of Lipid Profile, Liver Function, and Pattern of Plasma Fatty Acids According to the Type of Lipid Emulsion Administered in Parenteral Nutrition in the Early Postoperative Period After Digestive Surgery
Authors: Puiggròs C. , Sánchez J. , Chacón P. , Sabín P. , Roselló J. , Bou R. , Planas M.
Published: May 2009

Background: The metabolic effects of intravenous lipid emulsions (ILEs) used in parenteral nutrition (PN) depend on their fatty acid composition. Methods: Subjects in this prospective and randomized double‐blind study were 28 adult patients post digestive surgery. PN was started after surgery and lasts for 5 days. Randomly, patients receive 1 of 4 different ILEs: medium‐chain triglycerides/long‐chain triglycerides (soybean oil; MCT/LCT), olive/soybean oil (oleic), long‐chain triglycerides (soybean oil; LCT), and structured lipid. On days 0 and 6, serum liver function tests were analyzed for cholesterol, triglycerides, lipoproteins, and serum fatty acids. Results: No differences were found in the 4 groups according to their gender, age, body mass index, diagnosis, baseline white blood cell, C‐reactive protein, glucose levels, and other study parameters. Differential significant changes were not observed in any of the hepatic function parameters or plasmatic lipid levels between the groups. A significant decrease was observed in cis monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and a significant increase in ω‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) andω ‐3 PUFA values in LCT and structured groups compared with MCT/LCT and oleic groups, and a tendency for a decrease in trans fatty acids in the oleic and structured groups was found. Conclusions: All ILEs administered were safe and well tolerated. The changes in serum fatty acids reflected the pattern of fatty acids administered with different ILEs. The group receiving the olive oil emulsion achieved a fatty acid composition of serum lipids that could offer major therapeutic or biological advantages.
Political alienation in adolescence: Associations with parental role models, parenting styles, and classroom climate
Authors: Gniewosz Burkhard , Noack Peter , Buhl Monika
Published: May 2009

The present study examined how parental political attitudes, parenting styles, and classroom characteristics predict adolescents' political alienation, as feelings about the individual's ability to affect the political system's performance at the individual level. Participants were 463 families that included mothers, fathers, and their adolescent children in 6th, 8th, and 10th grades. Teachers reported on the classroom context. Multilevel analyses indicated several findings: parental and adolescent political attitudes supported a parent—adolescent transmission process, adolescents' perceptions of parental attitudes mediated the transmission process, authoritarian parenting style positively predicted adolescent political alienation, and classrooms comprised of teachers with clear educational goals were negatively related to adolescent political alienation. Results are discussed in terms of learning political alienation within family by parent—child transmission. Associations among adolescent political alienation, parenting style, and classroom climate are considered as interaction characteristics with authorities shaping adolescents' political attitudes.
Categorization of regional and foreign accent in 5- to 7-year-old British children
Authors: Floccia Caroline , Butler Joseph , Girard Frédérique , Goslin Jeremy
Published: May 2009

This study examines children's ability to detect accent-related information in connected speech. British English children aged 5 and 7 years old were asked to discriminate between their home accent from an Irish accent or a French accent in a sentence categorization task. Using a preliminary accent rating task with adult listeners, it was first verified that the level of accentedness was similar across the two unfamiliar accents. Results showed that whereas the younger children group behaved just above chance level in this task, the 7-year-old group could reliably distinguish between these variations of their own language, but were significantly better at detecting the foreign accent than the regional accent. These results extend and replicate a previous study (Girard, Floccia, & Goslin, 2008) in which it was found that 5-year-old French children could detect a foreign accent better than a regional accent. The factors underlying the relative lack of awareness for a regional accent as opposed to a foreign accent in childhood are discussed, especially the amount of exposure, the learnability of both types of accents, and a possible difference in the amount of vowels versus consonants variability, for which acoustic measures of vowel formants and plosives voice onset time are provided.
Timing of parenthood in relation to other life transitions and adult social functioning
Authors: Kokko Katja , Pulkkinen Lea , Mesiäinen Päivi
Published: May 2009

The timing of having one's first child, in relation to the timing of other transitions into adulthood and to social functioning, was investigated based on the Finnish Jyväskylä Longitudinal Study of Personality and Social Development, conducted from age 8 (173 females and 196 males) to 42. Results showed that in women, relatively early (< 25 years) motherhood was associated with the early timing of all studied transitions (move from parental home, intimate relationship, education, full-time job); in men, early fatherhood was associated only with the early start of an intimate relationship. In women, but not in men, early parenthood was linked to a lower level of education, lower occupational status, an unstable career line, and heavier alcohol drinking. In the long run, early motherhood lessened its significance for occupational status. Furthermore, differences in education and drinking between women with early motherhood and women with late motherhood disappeared when school success was controlled for, and differences in career stability disappeared when low self-control was controlled for.
The New Friends Vignettes: Measuring parental psychological control that confers risk for anxious adjustment in preschoolers
Authors: McShane Kelly E. , Hastings Paul D.
Published: May 2009

This investigation examined the links between preschoolers’ internalizing problems and anxiety-related social difficulties and two aspects of maternal and paternal psychological control: overprotection and critical control. Some 115 mothers and 92 fathers completed the New Friends Vignettes (NFV), a new measure of psychological control and supportive parenting designed to assess parenting relevant to young children’s internalizing problems and anxiety. Children’s anxious behaviors with peers at daycare or preschool were observed, mothers reported on preschoolers’ internalizing problems, and teachers reported on children’s internalizing problems and isolated behaviors. The NFV scales demonstrated good internal consistency and one-year test—retest reliability for mothers and fathers, and moderate convergent validity with observed parenting for mothers. Maternal overprotection and paternal critical control predicted more internalizing problems and anxious adjustment in preschoolers, with some associations being stronger for sons than daughters. Conversely, paternal supportiveness predicted fewer internalizing difficulties at preschool in daughters only. Children’s anxious behaviors predicted increasing paternal overprotection, and their internalizing problems at home and preschool tended to predict increasing maternal overprotection and critical control. Results support the reliability and validity of the New Friends Vignettes, and are indicative of parent differences in socialization processes, gender differences in risk for internalizing problems, and possible bidirectional pathways of influence in the socialization of internalizing trajectories.
False belief understanding: Children catch it from classmates of different ages
Authors: Wang Yifang , Su Yanjie
Published: May 2009

Two experiments were conducted to compare the false belief understanding of children who have no siblings, but have classmates of different ages in kindergarten. In Experiment 1, 4- and 5-year-olds completed two unexpected location tasks. We found that 4-year-olds with classmates of different ages performed significantly better than those with classmates of the same age. This result was replicated in a larger sample in Experiment 2 in which the children were asked to complete an unexpected location task and an unexpected content task. The findings suggested that the presence of minds with varied ages stimulates the social cognitive understanding of young children, particularly for 4-year-olds. The findings of the present study give a particularly clear view of the effect of classmates of different ages on young children's theory of mind development, extending findings in other research on the advantage of having siblings.
Historical Perspectives in Marketing Education
Authors: Petkus Ed
Published: May 2009

This article provides a justification and an implementation plan for the establishment of a historical orientation across the undergraduate marketing curriculum. The justification for the historical perspective addresses three areas: tapping into the extensive body of knowledge in marketing history, practical implications, and critical thinking. The implementation plan involves recommendations drawing on two pedagogical approaches: (a) the degree to which topical marketing history can be infused into the marketing curriculum and (b) the development of a general historical perspective across marketing topics and courses (i.e., the role of marketing in history) by specifying historical contexts that are relevant to particular courses. General information on historical research methods in marketing is offered, and an example of a historical case analysis that illustrates a potential way to generate concrete practical outcomes from the historical context of marketing is included. Results of a survey of students show favorable responses to the discussion of the historical context of marketing in a senior-level marketing course.
Direct Fabrication of a Hybrid Cell/Hydrogel Construct by a Double-nozzle Assembling Technology
Authors: Shengjie Li  , Zhuo Xiong  , Xiaohong Wang  , Yongnian Yan  , Haixia Liu  , Renji Zhang
Published: May 2009

Assembling multitype cells and biomimic extracellular matrix materials in a single construct is a promising method to regenerate complex tissues/organs in vitro. A new double-nozzle assembling technique was used to fabricate a hybrid cell/hydrogel construct with a vascular-like network to perform as a mass exchange conduit. Using a digital model to mimic an anatomical liver structure, adipose-derived stromal cells (ADSC) were combined within a gelatin/alginate/fibrinogen hydrogel to form a vascular-like network and hepatocytes combined gelatin/alginate/chitosan were placed around it. The construct was stabilized in a thrombin/CaCl2/Na5P3O10 solution after assembly. The ADSC were induced to differentiate into endothelial-like cells with endothelial growth factor. The albumin secretion level of the embedded hepatocytes increased during the 2 weeks culture, while the levels of urea and alanine transaminase were decreased after an increasing profile. These preliminary results indicate that this double-nozzle assembling technique could be a powerful tool for fabricating complex constructs with special intrinsic/ extrinsic structures. This technology has the potential to be widely used in medical regeneration and drug screening.
Perception of Marital Quality by Parents with Small Children
Authors: Ahlborg Tone , Misvaer Nina , Möller Anders
Published: May 2009

Swedish couples' perceptions of their marital quality when their firstborn was 6 months old and then 4 years later were studied in 2002 and 2006, respectively. The results show that almost half of the 368 responding parents were satisfied with their marital relationship both in 2002 and 2006 as assessed by a modified Dyadic Adjustment Scale. However, a study of the various dimensions showed a significant decrease in marital quality. Housework and child care were perceived as having a greater strain on the relationship between couples who had had additional children during this period. Dyadic Sexuality and Dyadic Cohesion were the most significant predictors of marital quality. Covariates of marital quality in the group with additional children were “partner relation and parenthood perceived as a strain” and “perceived social support.” The results emphasize the need for supportive interventions for parents with children aged 0 to 4 years.
Executive Function Impairments in High IQ Adults With ADHD
Authors: Brown Thomas E. , Reichel Philipp C. , Quinlan Donald M.
Published: May 2009

Objectives: To demonstrate that high IQ adults diagnosed with ADHD suffer from executive function (EF) impairments that: a) can be identified with a combination of standardized measures and self-report data; and b) occur more commonly in this group than in the general population. Method: 157 ADHD adults with IQ ≥ 120 were assessed with 8 normed measures of EF— 3 index scores from standardized tests of memory and cognitive abilities, and 5 subscales of a normed self-report measure of EF impairments in daily life. Results: 73% of subjects were significantly impaired on ≥ 5 of these 8 EF markers. On all 8 measures, incidence of these impairments was significantly greater than in the general population. Conclusion: High IQ adults with ADHD tend to suffer EF impairments that can be assessed with these measures; incidence of such impairments in this group is significantly higher than in the general population. (J. of Att. Dis. 2009; 13(2) 161-167)
Effect of Atorvastatin on PM10-induced Cytokine Production by Human Alveolar Macrophages and Bronchial Epithelial Cells
Authors: Sakamoto Noriho , Hayashi Shizu , Mukae Hiroshi , Vincent Renaud , Hogg James C. , van Eeden Stephan F.
Published: May 2009

Exposure to ambient air pollution particles (PM10) has been associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Inhaled pollutants induce a pulmonary and systemic inflammatory response that is thought to exacerbate cardiovascular disease. The 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects that could contribute to their beneficial effect in cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of statins on PM10-induced cytokine production in human bronchial epithelial cells (HBECs) and alveolar macrophages (AMs). Primary HBECs and AMs are obtained from resected human lung. Cells are pretreated with different concentrations of atorvastatin for 24 hours and then exposed to 100 μg/mL urban air pollution particles (EHC-93). Cytokine levels (interleukin-1β, interleukin-8, granulocyte-macrophage colonystimulating factor, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α) are measured at messenger RNA and protein levels using real-time polymerase chain reaction and bead-based multiplex immunoassay, respectively. PM10 exposure increases production of these cytokines by both cell types. Atorvastatin attenuates PM10-induced messenger RNA expression and cytokine production by AMs but not by HBECs. It is concluded that statins can modulate the PM10-induced inflammatory response in the lung by reducing mediator production by AMs.
Ocular Inflammation in Cynomolgus Macaques Following Intravenous Administration of a Human Monoclonal Antibody
Authors: Martin Pauline L. , Miller Paul E. , Mata Marielena , Christian Brian J.
Published: May 2009

Angiogenesis is a major component of the pathogenesis of various ocular diseases, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). CNTO95 is a fully human monoclonal antibody against αν integrins that has shown antiangiogenic properties in cynomolgus macaques and rats. Because angiogenesis inhibitors may have the potential to treat AMD, a proof-of-concept study was conducted in a macaque model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization. In the course of this study, transient, intense anterior chamber ocular inflammation was observed within 24 hours following the first intravitreal or intravenous administration of the human monoclonal antibody. These animals had no outward signs of ocular toxicity or discomfort. Additional ocular safety studies demonstrated that the inflammation following intravenous administration of CNTO95 was not due to a contaminant in the vehicle, not due to endotoxin, and not a nonspecific reaction in the macaques from administration of a human monoclonal antibody. The anterior chamber ocular inflammation noted following the first dose did not recur with subsequent CNTO95 dosing. In repeated-dose toxicology studies, histopathological examination of the eyes revealed no ocular toxicity. The reason for the ocular inflammation following intravenous dosing remains unresolved but may be a secondary manifestation of a first-dose systemic infusion reaction.
Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase Tagging Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms and Recovery From Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Alexander Sheila , Poloyac Samuel , Hoffman Leslie , Gallek Matthew , Dianxu Ren  , Balzer Jeffrey , Kassam Amin , Conley Yvette
Published: May 2009

Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a hemorrhagic stroke subtype with a poor recovery profile. Cerebral vasospasm (CV), a narrowing of the cerebral vasculature, significantly contributes to the poor recovery profile. Variation in the endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS) gene has been implicated in CV and outcome after SAH. The purpose of this project was to explore the potential association between three eNOS tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and recovery from SAH. We included 195 participants with a diagnosis of SAH and DNA and 6-month outcome data available but without preexisting neurologic disease/deficit. Genotyping was performed using an ABI Prism 7000 Sequence Detection System and TaqMan assays. CV was verified by cerebral angiogram independently read by a neurosurgeon on 118 participants. Modified Rankin Scores (MRS) and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) scores were collected 6 months posthemorrhage. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, analysis of variance (ANOVA) and chi-square analysis as appropriate. The sample was primarily female (n = 147; 75.4%) and White (n = 178; 91.3%) with a mean age of 54.6 years. Of the participants with CV data, 56 (47.5%) developed CV within 14 days of SAH. None of the SNPs individually were associated with CV presence; however, a combination of the three variant SNPs was significantly associated with CV (p = .017). Only one SNP (rs1799983, variant allele) was associated with worse 6-month GOS scores (p < .001) and MRS (p < .001). These data indicate that the eNOS gene plays a role in the response to SAH, which may be explained by an influence on CV.
Rehabilitation from sports injuries: from theory to practice
Authors: Christakou Anna , Lavallee David
Published: May 2009

A great number of injuries occur in the context of recreational physical activities and competitive athletics. Adherence to sport injury rehabilitation means an injured athlete's compliance (or not) to a sports medicine/injury personnel's instructions of participating in a rehabilitation programme in a clinic, and/or doing rehabilitation exercises at home. It has emerged as an area of interest among physiotherapists and other allied professionals (i.e. sport trainers, physicians). This article reviews compliance among injured athletes in the recovery process by presenting the protection motivation theory, personal investment theory and models of cognitive appraisal. Also it reviews key research findings about these three theoretical models. In addition practical guidelines and specific strategies are offered to sport injury rehabilitation personnel to enhance an athlete's adherence to injury rehabilitation. Sports medicine/injury personnel should educate athletes about their injuries and rehabilitation and increase effective communication and active listening. Also sports medicine/injury personnel should provide social support and encourage positive beliefs of injured athletes. In addition, coping with pain and setting short-term goals help athletes to increase their compliance to programmes of rehabilitation.
On the Price and Income Sensitivity of the Demand for Sports: Has Linder’s Disease Become More Serious?
Authors: Løyland Knut , Ringstad Vidar
Published: May 2009

This study presents some results for household demand for sports in Norway. The results provide a firm basis for concluding that the demand for sports is income elastic. However, because both sports events and own sports activities are time-consuming, they may be subject to Linder’s disease, which is due to a shadow value of leisure increasing with income. This implies a negative bias in the income elasticity as estimated by us. The calculations suggest that the bias has become bigger in the period analyzed, that is, Linder’s disease has become more serious for sports over time.
Brazilian Football
Authors: Madalozzo Regina , Berber Villar Rodrigo
Published: May 2009

This article aims to identify variables that influence public attendance at football matches in Brazil, and how these variables affect decision management. Deriving a demand curve for public attendance at football stadiums in the Brazilian Football League, this article highlights four main explicative variables: stadium infrastructure, team performance, expected quality, and uncertainty. Data from over 1,800 matches are presented in an econometric model, using ordinary least squares (OLS) regression and in panel data form. The results reflect a series of variables that influence attendance, such as ticket price and local derbies, and the role of promotional strategies in distributing tickets is revealed.
Performing Black Power in the “Cradle of Liberty”
Authors: Heitner Devorah
Published: May 2009

This article examines the early history of Boston's black public affairs television program Say Brother from 1968—1970. This history shows that as a local broadcast, WGBH's Say Brother could take a more outspoken position than a national program, such as Black Journal, could have taken. The article explores the radical pedagogy offered by Say Brother, which attempted to impart “new principles of Blackness” to its viewers using multiple genres. Through an analysis of the archived program and interviews with former staff members, the article demonstrates how Say Brother's youthful creators took advantage of establishment fears about black uprisings to create an openly critical television show that examined black discontent, showcased black viewpoints and black artists and overcame a cancellation attempt by rallying community response.
Physical activity, diet and behaviour modification in the treatment of overweight and obese adults: a systematic review
Authors: Söderlund Anne , Fischer Annika , Johansson Titti
Published: May 2009

Aim: The aim was to extend the body of knowledge through a systematic review that combines the strengths and partly fills the gaps from earlier reviews. The aim is to review randomized controlled trials of the long-term effectiveness of physical exercise/activity with or without diet and/or behaviour modification therapy in terms of training effect, weight loss and improvement of body composition in overweight and obese, healthy adults.

Methods: Data for systematic review was collected via a search of databases for literature published between 1995 and 2006. The search yielded 12 articles.

Results: The studies showed that training intensity should be moderate. The treatment of overweight and obese individuals with training alone cannot be expected to result in any substantial weight loss but should be combined with diet and behaviour modification therapy. However training can be an important factor in preventing further weight gain, or in helping individuals maintain a lowered body weight.

Conclusion: According to this systematic review of randomized controlled trials, the treatment that produced the best weight loss results included a combination of training, behaviour therapy and diet.
Changes in BMI and prevalence of obesity and overweight in children in Liverpool, 1998—2006
Authors: Boddy Lynne M , Hackett Allan F , Stratton Gareth
Published: May 2009

Aims: To investigate changes in mean body mass index (BMI) and prevalence of obesity between 1998 and 2006 in annual cohorts of 9—10-year-old Liverpool schoolchildren.

Methods: Stature and body mass data collected at the Liverpool SportsLinx project's fitness testing sessions were available on 26,782 ( n = 13,637 boys, 13,145 girls) participants. BMI was calculated from these data.

Results: BMI z-score increased over time ( p < 0.01) in both boys ( z-score range = −0.22—0.14) and girls ( z-score range = -0.2—0.16), with all years showing significantly higher BMI values in comparison to the first two years of the project ( p < 0.01). There were no significant differences between the most recent three years of data in boys and girls. Prevalence of obesity, and obesity plus overweight increased over time. However a `levelling off' in prevalence was observed in the most recent three years of data (2003—2006).

Conclusions: A substantial number of Liverpool schoolchildren are at risk of obesity-related illness and disease. However the most recent three cohorts' data (2003—2006) suggest that the increasing prevalence of obesity may have slowed; a positive step towards meeting the partnership agreement to halt the year-on-year increase in obesity by 2010.
Differential signal transduction, membrane trafficking, and immune effector functions mediated by FcγRI versus FcγRIIa
Authors: Dai Xilei , Jayapal Manikandan , Tay Hwee Kee , Reghunathan Renji , Lin Gen , Too Chien Tei , Lim Yan Ting , Chan Soh Ha , Kemeny D. Michael , Floto R. Andres , Smith Kenneth G. C. , Melendez Alirio J. , MacAry Paul A.
Published: May 2009

Receptors for the fragment crystallizable region of immunoglobulin-G (FcγRs) play an important role in linking the humoral and cellular arms of the immune response. In this study, we present a comprehensive functional comparison of 2 human Fc-receptors, FcγRI and FcγRIIa. Activation of FcγRI results in a novel signaling cascade that links phospholipase D1 to sphingosine kinase-1 in U937 cells and primary human monocytes. This induces the expression of proinflammatory mediators and is associated with trafficking of immune complexes into human leukocyte antigen-DM positive antigen-processing compartments coupled with improved MHC class II–mediated antigen presentation to T lymphocytes. In contrast, activation of FcγRIIa elicits signaling through phospholipase Cγ1, resulting in increases in intracellular calcium, activation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-oxidative burst, and differential membrane trafficking combined with impaired antigen presentation and proinflammatory cytokine expression. These data provide a mechanistic insight into the disparate activities associated with Fc receptors in immunity, namely, reinforcement of immune responses through stimulation of proinflammatory signaling and antigen presentation, versus the maintenance of immunologic homeostasis through the noninflammatory clearance of immune complexes.
Surface antigen phenotypes of hematopoietic stem cells from embryos and murine embryonic stem cells
Authors: McKinney-Freeman Shannon L. , Naveiras Olaia , Yates Frank , Loewer Sabine , Philitas Marsha , Curran Matthew , Park Peter J. , Daley George Q.
Published: May 2009

Surface antigens on hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) enable prospective isolation and characterization. Here, we compare the cell-surface phenotype of hematopoietic repopulating cells from murine yolk sac, aorta-gonad-mesonephros, placenta, fetal liver, and bone marrow with that of HSCs derived from the in vitro differentiation of murine embryonic stem cells (ESC-HSCs). Whereas c-Kit marks all HSC populations, CD41, CD45, CD34, and CD150 were developmentally regulated: the earliest embryonic HSCs express CD41 and CD34 and lack CD45 and CD150, whereas more mature HSCs lack CD41 and CD34 and express CD45 and CD150. ESC-HSCs express CD41 and CD150, lack CD34, and are heterogeneous for CD45. Finally, although CD48 was absent from all in vivo HSCs examined, ESC-HSCs were heterogeneous for the expression of this molecule. This unique phenotype signifies a developmentally immature population of cells with features of both primitive and mature HSC. The prospective fractionation of ESC-HSCs will facilitate studies of HSC maturation essential for normal functional engraftment in irradiated adults.
Genetic characterization of TET1, TET2, and TET3 alterations in myeloid malignancies
Authors: Abdel-Wahab Omar , Mullally Ann , Hedvat Cyrus , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Patel Jay , Wadleigh Martha , Malinge Sebastien , Yao JinJuan , Kilpivaara Outi , Bhat Rukhmi , Huberman Kety , Thomas Sabrena , Dolgalev Igor , Heguy Adriana , Paietta Elisabeth , Le Beau Michelle M. , Beran Miloslav , Tallman Martin S. , Ebert Benjamin L. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Stone Richard M. , Gilliland D. Gary , Crispino John D. , Levine Ross L.
Published: May 2009

Disease alleles that activate signal transduction are common in myeloid malignancies; however, there are additional unidentified mutations that contribute to myeloid transformation. Based on the recent identification of TET2 mutations, we evaluated the mutational status of TET1, TET2, and TET3 in myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Sequencing of TET2 in 408 paired tumor/normal samples distinguished between 68 somatic mutations and 6 novel single nucleotide polymorphisms and identified TET2 mutations in MPN (27 of 354, 7.6%), CMML (29 of 69, 42%), AML (11 of 91, 12%), and M7 AML (1 of 28, 3.6%) samples. We did not identify somatic TET1 or TET3 mutations or TET2 promoter hypermethylation in MPNs. TET2 mutations did not cluster in genetically defined MPN, CMML, or AML subsets but were associated with decreased overall survival in AML (P = .029). These data indicate that TET2 mutations are observed in different myeloid malignancies and may be important in AML prognosis.
Staphylococcus epidermidis strains isolated from breast milk of women suffering infectious mastitis: potential virulence traits and resistance to antibiotics
Authors: Delgado Susana , Arroyo Rebeca , Jiménez Esther , Marín Maria L , del Campo Rosa , Fernández Leonides , Rodríguez Juan M
Published: May 2009

Background

Although Staphylococcus aureus is considered the main etiological agent of infectious mastitis, recent studies have suggested that coagulase-negative staphylococci (CNS) may also play an important role in such infections. The aims of this work were to isolate staphylococci from milk of women with lactational mastitis, to select and characterize the CNS isolates, and to compare such properties with those displayed by CNS strains isolated from milk of healthy women.

Results

The milk of 30 women was collected and bacterial growth was noted in 27 of them, of which Staphylococcus epidermidis was isolated from 26 patients and S. aureus from 8. Among the 270 staphylococcal isolates recovered from milk of women with mastitis, 200 were identified as Staphylococcus epidermidis by phenotypic assays, species-specific PCR and PCR sequencing. They were typified by pulsed field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) genotyping. The PFGE profiles of the S. epidermidis strains were compared with those of 105 isolates from milk of healthy women. A representative of the 76 different PFGE profiles was selected to study the incidence of virulence factors and antibiotic resistance. The number of strains that contained the biofilm-related icaD gene and that showed resistance to oxacillin, erythromycin, clindamycin and mupirocin was significantly higher among the strains isolated from mastitic milk.

Conclusion

S. epidermidis may be a frequent but largely underrated cause of infectious mastitis in lactating women. The resistance to diverse antibiotics and a higher ability to form biofilms found among the strains isolated from milk of women suffering mastitis may explain the chronic and/or recurrent nature of this infectious condition.
piggyBac is an effective tool for functional analysis of the Plasmodium falciparumgenome
Authors: Balu Bharath , Chauhan Chitra , Maher Steven P , Shoue Douglas A , Kissinger Jessica C , Fraser Malcolm J , Adams John H
Published: May 2009

Background

Much of the Plasmodium falciparum genome encodes hypothetical proteins with limited homology to other organisms. A lack of robust tools for genetic manipulation of the parasite limits functional analysis of these hypothetical proteins and other aspects of the Plasmodium genome. Transposon mutagenesis has been used widely to identify gene functions in many organisms and would be extremely valuable for functional analysis of the Plasmodium genome.

Results

In this study, we investigated the lepidopteran transposon, piggyBac, as a molecular genetic tool for functional characterization of the Plasmodium falciparum genome. Through multiple transfections, we generated 177 unique P. falciparum mutant clones with mostly single piggyBac insertions in their genomes. Analysis of piggyBac insertion sites revealed random insertions into the P. falciparum genome, in regards to gene expression in parasite life cycle stages and functional categories. We further explored the possibility of forward genetic studies in P. falciparum with a phenotypic screen for attenuated growth, which identified several parasite genes and pathways critical for intra-erythrocytic development.

Conclusion

Our results clearly demonstrate that piggyBac is a novel, indispensable tool for forward functional genomics in P. falciparum that will help better understand parasite biology and accelerate drug and vaccine development.
Characterization of the TRBP domain required for Dicer interaction and function in RNA interference
Authors: Daniels Sylvanne M , Melendez-Peña Carlos E , Scarborough Robert J , Daher Aïcha , Christensen Helen S , El Far Mohamed , Purcell Damian FJ , Lainé Sébastien , Gatignol Anne
Published: May 2009

Background

Dicer, Ago2 and TRBP are the minimum components of the human RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC). While Dicer and Ago2 are RNases, TRBP is the double-stranded RNA binding protein (dsRBP) that loads small interfering RNA into the RISC. TRBP binds directly to Dicer through its C-terminal domain.

Results

We show that the TRBP binding site in Dicer is a 165 amino acid (aa) region located between the ATPase and the helicase domains. The binding site in TRBP is a 69 aa domain, called C4, located at the C-terminal end of TRBP. The TRBP1 and TRBP2 isoforms, but not TRBPs lacking the C4 site (TRBPsΔC4), co-immunoprecipitated with Dicer. The C4 domain is therefore necessary to bind Dicer, irrespective of the presence of RNA. Immunofluorescence shows that while full-length TRBPs colocalize with Dicer, TRBPsΔC4 do not. tarbp2
-/- cells, which do not express TRBP, do not support RNA interference (RNAi) mediated by short hairpin or micro RNAs against EGFP. Both TRBPs, but not TRBPsΔC4, were able to rescue RNAi function. In human cells with low RNAi activity, addition of TRBP1 or 2, but not TRBPsΔC4, rescued RNAi function.

Conclusion

The mapping of the interaction sites between TRBP and Dicer show unique domains that are required for their binding. Since TRBPsΔC4 do not interact or colocalize with Dicer, we suggest that TRBP and Dicer, both dsRBPs, do not interact through bound dsRNA. TRBPs, but not TRBPsΔC4, rescue RNAi activity in RNAi-compromised cells, indicating that the binding of Dicer to TRBP is critical for RNAi function.
Collagen mRNA levels changes during colorectal cancer carcinogenesis
Authors: Skovbjerg Hanne , Anthonsen Dorit , Lothe Inger MB , Tveit Kjell M , Kure Elin H , Vogel Lotte K
Published: May 2009

Background

Invasive growth of epithelial cancers is a complex multi-step process which involves dissolution of the basement membrane. Type IV collagen is a major component in most basement membranes. Type VII collagen is related to anchoring fibrils and is found primarily in the basement membrane zone of stratified epithelia. Immunohistochemical studies have previously reported changes in steady-state levels of different α(IV) chains in several epithelial cancer types. In the present study we aimed to quantitatively determine the mRNA levels of type IV collagen (α1/α4/α6) and type VII collagen (α1) during colorectal cancer carcinogenesis.

Methods

Using quantitative RT-PCR, we have determined the mRNA levels for α1(IV), α4(IV), α6(IV), and α1(VII) in colorectal cancer tissue (n = 33), adenomas (n = 29) and in normal tissue from the same individuals. In addition, corresponding tissue was examined from healthy volunteers (n = 20). mRNA levels were normalized to β-actin. Immunohistochemical analysis of the distributions of type IV and type VII collagens were performed on normal and affected tissues from colorectal cancer patients.

Results

The α1(IV) and α1(VII) mRNA levels were statistically significantly higher in colorectal cancer tissue (p < 0.001) as compared to corresponding tissue from healthy controls. This is an early event as tissue from adenomas also displayed a higher level. There were small changes in the levels of α4(IV). The level of α6(IV) was 5-fold lower in colorectal cancer tissue as compared to healthy individuals (p < 0.01). The localisation of type IV and type VII collagen was visualized by immunohistochemical staining.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the down-regulation of α6(IV) mRNA coincides with the acquisition of invasive growth properties, whereas α1(IV) and α1(VII) mRNAs were up-regulated already in dysplastic tissue. There are no differences in collagen expression between tissues from healthy individuals and normal tissues from affected individuals.
Proteomic analysis of the response of the plant growth-promoting bacterium Pseudomonas putida UW4 to nickel stress
Authors: Cheng Zhenyu , Wei Yi-Yun C , Sung Wilson WL , Glick Bernard R , McConkey Brendan J
Published: May 2009

Background

Plant growth-promoting bacteria can alleviate the inhibitory effects of various heavy metals on plant growth, via decreasing levels of stress-induced ethylene. However, little has been done to detect any mechanisms specific for heavy metal resistance of this kind of bacteria. Here, we investigate the response of the wild-type plant growth-promoting bacterium Pseudomonas putida UW4 to nickel stress using proteomic approaches. The mutant strain P. putida UW4/AcdS-, lacking a functional 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid deaminase gene, was also assessed for its response to nickel stress.

Results

Two dimensional difference in-gel electrophoresis (DIGE) was used to detect significantly up- or down- regulated proteins (p < 0.05, | ratio | > 1.5) in P. putida in response to the presence of 2 mM Ni. Out of a total number of 1,702 proteins detected on the analytical gels for P. putida UW4, the expression levels of 82 (4.82%) proteins increased significantly while the expression of 81 (4.76%) proteins decreased significantly. Of 1,575 proteins detected on the analytical gels for P. putida UW4/AcdS-, the expression levels of 74 (4.70%) proteins increased and 51 (3.24%) proteins decreased significantly. Thirty-five proteins whose expression was altered were successfully identified by mass spectrometry and sequence comparisons with related species. Nineteen of the identified proteins were detected as differentially expressed in both wild-type and mutant expression profiles.

Conclusion

Functional assessment of proteins with significantly altered expression levels revealed several mechanisms thought to be involved in bacterial heavy metal detoxification, including general stress adaptation, anti-oxidative stress and heavy metal efflux proteins. This information may contribute to the development of plant growth-promoting bacteria mediated phytoremediation processes.
Surgical complications in neuromuscular scoliosis operated with posterior- only approach using pedicle screw fixation
Authors: Modi Hitesh N , Suh Seung-Woo , Yang Jae-Hyuk , Cho Jae Woo , Hong Jae-Young , Singh Surya Udai , Jain Sudeep
Published: May 2009

Background

There are no reports describing complications with posterior spinal fusion (PSF) with segmental spinal instrumentation (SSI) using pedicle screw fixation in patients with neuromuscular scoliosis.

Methods

Fifty neuromuscular patients (18 cerebral palsy, 18 Duchenne muscular dystrophy, 8 spinal muscular atrophy and 6 others) were divided in two groups according to severity of curves; group I (< 90°) and group II (> 90°). All underwent PSF and SSI with pedicle screw fixation. There were no anterior procedures. Perioperative (within three months of surgery) and postoperative (after three months of surgery) complications were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

There were fifty (37 perioperative, 13 postoperative) complications. Hemo/pneumothorax, pleural effusion, pulmonary edema requiring ICU care, complete spinal cord injury, deep wound infection and death were major complications; while atelectesis, pneumonia, mild pleural effusion, UTI, ileus, vomiting, gastritis, tingling sensation or radiating pain in lower limb, superficial infection and wound dehiscence were minor complications. Regarding perioperative complications, 34(68%) patients had at least one major or one minor complication. There were 16 patients with pulmonary, 14 with abdominal, 3 with wound related, 2 with neurological and 1 cardiovascular complications, respectively. There were two deaths, one due to cardiac arrest and other due to hypovolemic shock. Regarding postoperative complications 7 patients had coccygodynia, 3 had screw head prominence, 2 had bed sore and 1 had implant loosening, respectively. There was a significant relationship between age and increased intraoperative blood loss (p = 0.024). However it did not increased complications or need for ICU care. Similarly intraoperative blood loss > 3500 ml, severity of curve or need of pelvic fixation did not increase the complication rate or need for ICU. DMD patients had higher chances of coccygodynia postoperatively.

Conclusion

Although posterior-only approach using pedicle screw fixation had good correction rate, complications were similar to previous reports. There were few unusual complications like coccygodynia.
Predictors of packed red cell transfusion after isolated primary coronary artery bypass grafting – The experience of a single cardiac center: A prospective observational study
Authors: Elmistekawy Elsayed M. , Errett Lee , Fawzy Hosam F.
Published: May 2009

Background

Preoperative patients' characteristics can predict the need for perioperative blood component transfusion in cardiac surgical operations. The aim of this prospective observational study is to identify perioperative patient characteristics predicting the need for allogeneic packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion in isolated primary coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) operations.

Patients and Methods

105 patients undergoing isolated, first-time CABG were reviewed for their preoperative variables and followed for intraoperative and postoperative data. Patients were 97 males and 8 females, with mean age 58.28 ± 10.97 years. Regression logistic analysis was used for identifying the strongest perioperative predictors of PRBC transfusion.

Results

PRBC transfusion was used in 71 patients (67.6%); 35 patients (33.3%) needed > 2 units and 14 (13.3%) of these needed > 4 units. Univariate analysis identified female gender, age > 65 years, body weight ≤ 70 Kg, BSA ≤ 1.75 m2, BMI ≤ 25, preoperative hemoglobin ≤ 13 gm/dL, preoperative hematocrit ≤ 40%, serum creatinine > 100 μmol/L, Euro SCORE (standard/logistic) > 2, use of CPB, radial artery use, higher number of distal anastomoses, and postoperative chest tube drainage > 1000 mL as significant predictors. The strongest predictors using multivariate analysis were CPB use, hematocrit, body weight, and serum creatinine.

Conclusion

The predictors of PRBC transfusion after primary isolated CABG are use of CPB, hematocrit ≤ 40%, weight ≤ 70 Kg, and serum creatinine > 100 μmol/L. This leads to better utilization of blood bank resources and cost-efficient targeted use of expensive blood conservation modalities.
Digital manufacturing: History, perspectives, and outlook
Authors: Chryssolouris G , Mavrikios D , Papakostas N , Mourtzis D , Michalos G , Georgoulias K
Published: May 2009

Digital manufacturing has been considered, over the last decade, as a highly promising set of technologies for reducing product development times and cost as well as for addressing the need for customization, increased product quality, and faster response to the market. This paper describes the evolution of information technology systems in manufacturing, outlining their characteristics and the challenges to be addressed in the future. Together with the digital manufacturing and factory concepts, the technologies considered in this paper include computer-aided design, engineering, process planning and manufacturing, product data and life-cycle management, simulation and virtual reality, automation, process control, shopfloor scheduling, decision support, decision making, manufacturing resource planning, enterprise resource planning, logistics, supply chain management, and e-commerce systems. These technologies are discussed in the context of the digital factory and manufacturing concepts.
Oxide Glass/Amorphous Metal Alloy Laminated Membrane for Hydrogen Separation
Authors: Tawarayama Hiromasa , Hosono Hideo , Yamaura Shin-ichi , Zhang Wei , Inoue Akihisa
Published: May 2009

A five-layered membrane composed of an amorphous Ni–Nb–Zr alloy substrate (ca. 30 μm), thin proton–electron mixed conductive tungsten phosphate glass films (ca. 50 nm) and Ni coatings (ca. 20 nm) was fabricated by pulsed laser deposition and vacuum evaporation. A flux of hydrogen passed through the laminated membrane without Pd at 673 K at ca. 2×10−6 mol·cm−2·s−1, and no degradation was observed in the 10 h operation. The present results suggest that amorphous Ni–Nb–Zr alloy passivated with WO3-based oxide glass is a promising material for H2 filtering in a medium temperature range.
A Novel Dodecanuclear Mo–Cu Cluster Derived from [Mo2S2(edt)2(μ-S)2]2− as a Metalloligand: Preparation and Structure of [Mo6(edt)4(μ-edt)2(μ3-S)12Cu6(μ-dppe)2]·2DMF·C6H14 (edt = −SC2H4S−)
Authors: Li Jing-Jing , Duan Taike , Zhang Qian-Feng , Leung Wa-Hung
Published: May 2009

A novel dodecanuclear Mo–Cu cluster [Mo6(edt)4(μ-edt)2(μ3-S)12Cu6(μ-dppe)2]·2DMF·C6H14 was synthesized by the reaction of [Et4N]2[Mo2S2(edt)2(μ-S)2] (edtH2 = 1,2-ethanedithio) and [Cu(MeCN)4][ClO4] in the presence of bidentate phosphine ligand 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe). The molecular structure consists of one edt-linked double cubane and one single cubane which are linked by two bridging dppe ligands.
Properties of Protic Ionic Liquids Composed of N-Hexylethylenediaminium and N-(2-Ethylhexyl)ethylenediaminium Cations with Bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)amide Anion
Authors: Iida Masayasu , Syouno Emi , Kawakami Sayaka , Hanai Miyuki
Published: May 2009

We have newly prepared protic ionic liquids (PIL) composed of monoprotic alkylethylenediaminium (alkyl = N-hexyl and N-2-ethylhexyl) cations coupled with bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)amide anion (=TFSA) at room temperature. It is in contrast to the monoprotic N-hexylethylenediaminium (=HexH)TFSA salt which tends to crystallize on cooling that the monoprotic N-(2-ethylhexyl)ethylenediaminium (=EtHexH)TFSA salt assumes only a glassy state in solid. In the liquids, the HexH salt is more fluid than the EtHexH salt.