bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of Corpora Lutea Growth and Progesterone Secretion in Sows with Thrifty Genotype and Leptin Resistance due to Leptin Receptor Gene Polymorphisms (Iberian Pig)
Authors: Gonzalez‐Añover P , Encinas T , Torres‐Rovira L , Sanz E , Pallares P , Ros JM , Gomez‐Izquierdo E , Sanchez‐Sanchez R , Gonzalez‐Bulnes A
Published: March 2011

Contents

The current study aimed to compare luteal function, as measured by corpora lutea dynamics and progesterone secretion, in 10 sows with obesity/leptin resistance genotype (Iberian pig) and 10 females of lean commercial crosses (Large White × Landrace). In all the animals, the oestrous cycle was synchronized with progestagens, and ovulation was induced by exogenous gonadotrophins. Thereafter, number and size of follicles and plasma oestradiol concentration were determined at oestrus detection, and number and size of corpora lutea and progesterone concentration were evaluated from Day 4 to 12 of the cycle. There were no differences between genotypes in follicle population and oestradiol concentration, and ovulation rate (15.2 ± 1.3 in Iberian vs 12.7 ± 1.8 in LWxL sows); however, there was a higher percentage of Iberian than control sows showing luteal cysts (66.7% vs 30%, respectively; p < 0.05). In both breeds, both total luteal area and plasma progesterone concentration grew linearly from Day 4 to 8 (p < 0.01) and remained more stable between Days 8 and 12, without significant differences between genotypes. In conclusion, current study supports that ovulatory processes and luteal functionality are not the main limiting factors for prolificacy in a pig model of leptin resistance and obesity.
Advances in membranous nephropathy: Success stories of a long journey
Authors: Ronco Pierre , Debiec Hanna
Published: March 2011

1. embranous nephropathy is characterized by an accumulation of immune deposits on the outer aspect of the glomerular basement membrane.

2. In the rat model described by Heymann in 1959, the target antigen of antibodies is megalin, a multiligand receptor expressed in the rat glomerulus but absent from the human glomerulus.

3. In recent years, two major antigens have been identified in human membranous nephropathy (MN). The first is neutral endopeptidase (NEP), the alloantigen involved in neonatal cases of MN that occur in newborns from NEP‐deficient mothers. The second is the M‐type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R), the first autoantigen identified in idiopathic MN in the adult. Megalin, NEP and PLA2R are all expressed on the podocyte surface, where they can serve as targets for circulating antibodies, leading to in situ immune complex formation, complement activation and proteinuria.

4. In addition to podocyte antigens, we recently showed that some patients with childhood MN had both circulating cationic bovine serum albumin (BSA) and anti‐BSA antibodies, with BSA being present in immune deposits. This suggests that food antigens may be involved in MN through charge‐dependent binding to the anionic glomerular capillary wall and in situ formation of immune complexes.
Chronic activation of AMP‐activated protein kinase prevents 20‐hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid‐induced endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Ward Natalie C , Chen Kai , Li Chunying , Croft Kevin D , Keaney John F
Published: March 2011

1. 20‐Hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20‐HETE) is a potent vasoconstrictor involved in vascular dysfunction and blood pressure regulation. Studies have revealed strong associations between 20‐HETE and endothelial dysfunction; however, the signalling mechanisms are largely unknown. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 20‐HETE on the association between endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90).

2. In mouse aortic rings, 20‐HETE significantly enhanced the constriction to phenylephrine and inhibited the relaxation to acetylcholine (P = 0.05 vs control rings). In mice with chronic AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation, this protected against the negative effects of 20‐HETE (P < 0.05). Immunoprecipitation of eNOS in human umbilical vein endothelial cells treated with 20‐HETE revealed a decrease in basal and vascular endothelial growth factor‐stimulated Hsp90 association with eNOS (P < 0.05). Pretreatment of cells with 5′‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxyamide‐ribonucleoside (AICAR; a chronic activator of AMPK) prevented the loss of Hsp90 association with eNOS following 20‐HETE treatment. Treatment with 20‐HETE for 24 h induced an increase in eNOS phosphorylation that was not seen following acute treatment (30 min). The increased eNOS phosphorylation was accompanied by transient changes in Akt phosphorylation.

3. In conclusion, 20‐HETE impairs eNOS–Hsp90 association, which can be reversed by chronic activation of AMPK. This provides a mechanism for reduced nitric oxide bioactivity and endothelial dysfunction in diseases with elevated 20‐HETE levels, such as hypertension.
Reactive oxygen species and the central nervous system in salt‐sensitive hypertension: possible relationship with obesity‐induced hypertension
Authors: Ando Katsuyuki , Fujita Megumi
Published: March 2011

1. There are multiple and complex mechanisms of salt‐induced hypertension; however, central sympathoexcitation plays an important role. In addition, the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) is increased in salt‐sensitive hypertensive humans and animals. Thus, we hypothesized that brain ROS overproduction may increase blood pressure (BP) by central sympathostimulation.

2. Recently, we demonstrated that ROS levels were elevated in the hypothalamus of salt‐sensitive hypertensive animals. Moreover, intracerebroventricular anti‐oxidants suppressed BP and renal sympathetic nerve activity more in salt‐sensitive than non‐salt‐sensitive hypertensive rats. Thus, brain ROS overproduction increased BP through central sympathoexcitation in salt‐sensitive hypertension.

3. Salt sensitivity of BP is enhanced in obesity and metabolic syndrome. Interestingly, it is also suggested that, in obesity‐induced hypertension models, increases in BP are caused by brain ROS‐induced central sympathoexcitation.

4. Recent studies suggest that increased ROS production in the brain and central sympathoexcitation may share a common pathway that increases BP in both salt‐ and obesity‐induced hypertension.
Multicystic mesothelioma of the pericardium
Authors: Morita Shigeki , Goto Akiteru , Sakatani Takashi , Ota Satoshi , Murakawa Tomohiro , Nakajima Jun , Maeda Eriko , Fukayama Masashi
Published: March 2011

Multicystic mesothelioma is a well recognized but rare serosal tumor which mainly arises from the peritoneum in women and is considered as a benign lesion. This is the second case report of pericardial multicystic mesothelioma, which took a fatal clinical course. A 63‐year‐old man presented with pitting edema, shortness of breath, and hoarseness. Radiological investigations revealed solid and cystic tumor of the pericardium which was continuously extending into the mediastinum and the liver. Pericardial biopsy showed micro‐cystic tumor lined by single layer of mesothelial cells without atypia, and the diagnosis was multicystic mesothelioma. Curative surgery could not be performed, and three years and four months later, the patient died because of the direct compression of the heart by the tumor. At autopsy, the tumor was found to be directly extending into the right pleural cavity and the right lung, besides the mediastinum and the liver. Neither malignant transformation nor metastatic tumor was identified.
Role model behaviors of nursing faculty members in Thailand
Authors: Klunklin Areewan , Sawasdisingha Piyawan , Viseskul Nongkran , Funashima Naomi , Kameoka Tomomi , Nomoto Yuriko , Nakayama Toshiko
Published: March 2011

Being a role model is very important in order for nurse teachers to promote students' competence and confidence. This descriptive study aimed at exploring the role model behavior of nursing faculty members in Thailand. The Self‐Evaluation Scale on Role Model Behaviors for Nursing Faculty (Thai version) was used to collect data from 320 nursing faculty members in eight schools of nursing, four university nursing schools, one college under the Ministry of Public Health, one under the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and two private schools of nursing. The results revealed that the mean score of the overall items in the role model behaviors of nursing faculty members in Thailand, as perceived by themselves, was at a high level. The scores on each subscale of the role model behaviors also were high and related to respect for students, enthusiastic and high‐quality teaching activities, showing the value of nursing practice and the nursing profession, social appropriateness, and ongoing professional development. The results can be used to further develop nurse professionals and to improve the effectiveness of clinical teaching in Thailand.
An unusual case of air within the bladder wall: Bladder pneumatosis?
Authors: Medina‐Polo José , Nuñez‐Sobrino Juan Antonio , Díaz‐González Rafael
Published: March 2011

Emphysematous cystitis is a potentially life‐threatening condition characterized by the amassing of gas within the wall of the bladder, as a result of infection by gas‐forming organisms. However, the amassing of gas in the wall of the bladder does not always result from an infectious etiology. Here we report the case of a patient diagnosed with lung cancer and treated with chemotherapy, where there was air within the bladder wall accompanied by pneumoperitoneum. The presence of an infectious etiology was not clear, and the patient responded successfully to medical treatment. Although emphysematous cystitis is the most common diagnosis, the presence of gas within the wall of the bladder is a sign and not a disease per se. In our opinion, the case displays similar characteristics to those of pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis, and for this reason we refer to it as bladder pneumatosis.
Nurses' perceptions of a mental health education programme for Australian nurses
Authors: Joyce Terry , Higgins Isabel , Magin Parker , Goode Susan , Pond Dimity , Stone Teresa , Elsom Stephen , O'Neill Kerry
Published: March 2011

In the present study, we present qualitative findings of study of nurses' perceptions of a mental health education programme for Australian nurses. Many nurses avoid disclosing their mental health problem/illness because of the stigmatization by health workers. Mental health education is a successful means to address workplace stigma; thus, it can be anticipated that such education can address workplace difficulties experienced by nurses with mental health problems. During 2008, a qualitative study was conducted to obtain nurses' perceptions of a short mental health education programme for nurses. The workshop purpose was to improve mental health literacy in order to improve support to colleagues with mental health problems. Semistructured, audio‐taped interviews were conducted with 13 nurses and then transcribed. A framework analysis approach guided interpretation of the data. The education programme had limited effect on the participants' attitudes towards colleagues with mental health problems. This was likely due to their high level of mental health literacy and experiences prior to the workshop. Participants felt that a more focused nurse‐specific programme might have been more efficacious. Implementing a nurse‐specific education session is potentially an effective means to improve support to nurses who experience mental health problems.
Successful in vitro fertilization pregnancy following magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound surgery for uterine fibroids
Authors: Zaher Summia , Lyons Deidre , Regan Lesley
Published: March 2011

We describe an in vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancy and delivery after magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) for a symptomatic uterine fibroid. A 45‐year‐old para 0 + 1, with four previous failed IVF treatments underwent MRgFUS for a single anterior wall fibroid causing intra‐cavitary distortion and conceived after the first IVF cycle 10 months following the procedure. The patient received shared antenatal care. She was admitted in spontaneous labor at term but delivered by emergency cesarean section a healthy male infant. We describe the first IVF pregnancy following MRgFUS for a symptomatic fibroid.
Bacterial enzymes for dissimilatory sulfate reduction in a marine microbial mat (Black Sea) mediating anaerobic oxidation of methane
Authors: Basen Mirko , Krüger Martin , Milucka Jana , Kuever Jan , Kahnt Jörg , Grundmann Olav , Meyerdierks Anke , Widdel Friedrich , Shima Seigo
Published: March 2011

Anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) with sulfate is catalysed by microbial consortia of archaea and bacteria affiliating with methanogens and sulfate‐reducing Deltaproteobacteria respectively. There is evidence that methane oxidation is catalysed by enzymes related to those in methanogenesis, but the enzymes for sulfate reduction coupled to AOM have not been examined. We collected microbial mats with high AOM activity from a methane seep in the Black Sea. The mats consisted mainly of archaea of the ANME‐2 group and bacteria of the Desulfosarcina–Desulfococcus group. Cell‐free mat extract contained activities of enzymes involved in sulfate reduction to sulfide: ATP sulfurylase (adenylyl : sulfate transferase; Sat), APS reductase (Apr) and dissimilatory sulfite reductase (Dsr). We partially purified the enzymes by anion‐exchange chromatography. The amounts obtained indicated that the enzymes are abundant in the mat, with Sat accounting for 2% of the soluble mat protein. N‐terminal amino acid sequences of purified proteins suggested similarities to the corresponding enzymes of known species of sulfate‐reducing bacteria. The deduced amino acid sequence of PCR‐amplified genes of the Apr subunits is similar to that of Apr of the Desulfosarcina/Desulfococcus group. These results indicate that the major enzymes involved in sulfate reduction in the Back Sea microbial mats are of bacterial origin, most likely originating from the bacterial partner in the consortium.
Patient‐reported outcomes are superior in patients with Type 2 diabetes treated with liraglutide as compared with exenatide, when added to metformin, sulphonylurea or both: results from a randomized, open‐label study
Authors: Schmidt W. E. , Christiansen J. S. , Hammer M. , Zychma M. J. , Buse J. B.
Published: March 2011

Diabet. Med. 28, 715–723 (2011)

Aims  The Liraglutide Effect and Action in Diabetes 6 trial was an open‐label trial comparing liraglutide with exenatide as an ‘add‐on’ to metformin and/or sulphonylurea.

Methods  Patients with Type 2 diabetes were randomized to liraglutide 1.8 mg once daily or exenatide 10 μg twice daily for 26 weeks. This was followed by a 14‐week extension phase, in which all patients received liraglutide 1.8 mg once daily.

Results  Patient‐reported outcomes were measured in 379 patients using Diabetes Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire status (DTSQs) and DTSQ change (DTSQc). The change in overall treatment satisfaction (DTSQs score) from baseline at week 26 with liraglutide was 4.71 and with exentaide was 1.66 [difference between groups 3.04 (95% CI 1.73–4.35), P < 0.0001]. Five of the six items on the DTSQs improved significantly more with liraglutide than with exenatide (differences: current treatment 0.37, P = 0.0093; convenience 0.68, P < 0.0001; flexibility 0.57, P = 0.0002; recommend 0.49, P = 0.0003; continue 0.66, P = 0.0001). Patients perceived a greater reduction in hypoglycaemia at week 26 with liraglutide than with exenatide [difference in DTSQc score 0.48 (0.08–0.89), P = 0.0193] and a greater reduction in perceived hyperglycaemia [difference 0.74 (0.31–1.17), P = 0.0007]. During the extension phase, when all patients received liraglutide, DTSQs scores remained stable in patients who continued on liraglutide and increased significantly (P = 0.0026) in those switching from exenatide.

Conclusions  These results demonstrate significant improvements in patients’ treatment satisfaction with liraglutide compared with exenatide.
Age effect on vascular reactivity in Type 1 diabetes
Authors: Grzelak P. , Czupryniak L. , Olszycki M. , Majos A. , Stefańczyk L.
Published: March 2011

Diabet. Med. 28, 833–837 (2011)

Aim  The objective of this study was to assess the effect of age on vascular reactivity in patients with Type 1 diabetes.

Methods  Forty‐five patients with Type 1 diabetes and 71 healthy control subjects, divided into three age groups (18–30, 31–45 and 46–60 years old), underwent assessment of vascular reactivity based on ultrasound examination of a brachial artery after nitric oxide donor administration.

Results  The vasodilative and haemodynamic effect was most pronounced in the youngest control subjects, where lumen widening of 0.51 ± 0.16 mm (13.9 ± 4.2%) and increase in early velocity of 28.4 ± 6.5 cm/s (237 ± 55%) were observed, while, in the control subjects from the middle and oldest age groups, the increase in artery diameter was 0.4 ± 0.11 and 0.22 ± 0.12 mm (9.8 ± 2.6 and 5.0 ± 2.6%), respectively. In the youngest patients with diabetes, lumen widening by 0.35 ± 0.13 mm (8.6 ± 3.4%) and increase in early diastolic velocity by 16.9 ± 5.6 cm/s (158 ± 52%) were noted (P < 0.05 vs. control subjects). In patients with diabetes from the middle and oldest age groups, the increase in artery diameter was 0.26 ± 0.06 and 0.16 ± 0.09 mm (5.5 ± 1.4 and 3.2 ± 1.8%), respectively.

Conclusions  Vascular reactivity is strongly age dependent in all subjects; however, responses are delayed and occur over a longer time period in the patients with diabetes. Vasodilation test protocols should take into account the age of the subjects.
DO WE REALLY NEED BOTH BEKK AND DCC? A TALE OF TWO MULTIVARIATE GARCH MODELS
Authors: Caporin Massimiliano , McAleer Michael
Published: March 2011

Abstract The management and monitoring of very large portfolios of financial assets are routine for many individuals and organizations. The two most widely used models of conditional covariances and correlations in the class of multivariate GARCH models are BEKK and dynamic conditional correlation (DCC). It is well known that BEKK suffers from the archetypal ‘curse of dimensionality’, whereas DCC does not. It is argued in this paper that this is a misleading interpretation of the suitability of the two models for use in practice. The primary purpose of this paper is to analyse the similarities and dissimilarities between BEKK and DCC, both with and without targeting, on the basis of the structural derivation of the models, the availability of analytical forms for the sufficient conditions for existence of moments, sufficient conditions for consistency and asymptotic normality of the appropriate estimators and computational tractability for ultra large numbers of financial assets. Based on theoretical considerations, the paper sheds light on how to discriminate between BEKK and DCC in practical applications.
A Communication‐Based Theory of the Choice Between Greenfield and Acquisition Entry
Authors: Slangen Arjen H. L.
Published: March 2011

abstract

This paper develops a communication‐based theory of the choice by multinational enterprises (MNEs) between greenfield and acquisition entry. It argues that MNE parents communicate with their subsidiaries for reasons of knowledge exchange, coordination, monitoring, and socialization. The expected communication costs arising from these activities are argued to increase with the verbal communication barriers existing between a prospective subsidiary and its parent, but this increase is argued to be larger for acquisitions because they require more extensive parent–subsidiary communication than greenfields. I therefore hypothesize that verbal communication barriers have positive effects on the likelihood that MNEs choose greenfield over acquisition entry. I also hypothesize that these effects are weaker for prospective subsidiaries that will have more autonomy or local co‐owners. An analysis of 231 entries by Dutch MNEs into 48 countries lends substantial support to these hypotheses, indicating that geographic and linguistic barriers to verbal communication play important roles in MNEs' establishment mode decisions.
Institutional Investment in Listed Private Equity
Authors: Cumming Douglas , Fleming Grant , Johan Sofia A.
Published: March 2011

This paper examines institutional investors’ propensity to invest in a relatively unknown asset class of listed private equity. Based on data provided by LPEQ, Preqin and Scorpio Partnership covering 171 institutional investors in Europe in 2008–2010, we find allocations are primarily a function of size, type, location, decision‐making authority and liquidity preferences. Investment in listed private equity is more commonly made by institutions that are smaller, private (not public) pension institutions, institutions that have a preference for liquidity, quick access, and administrative and cash flow management simplicity, and institutions that are based in the UK, Switzerland, Sweden and the Netherlands. As well, institutions are less likely to invest in listed private equity when investment decision‐making is empowered to an alternative asset class team.
Gaussian mixture decomposition in the analysis of MALDI‐TOF spectra
Authors: Polanska Joanna , Plechawska Malgorzata , Pietrowska Monika , Marczak Lukasz
Published: March 2011

The article presents a method of protein matrix‐assisted laser desorption and ionization‐time of flight (TOF) spectra analysis. The method performs peaks detection. Spectra are analysed with Gaussian mixture decomposition. The results obtained are used for peaks identification purposes. The concept of the method is that a single peak is represented by one Gaussian distribution. The expectation‐maximization algorithm and maximum likelihood rule are used for spectra processing. The analysis can be done for a set of spectra with use of the mean spectrum, or it may be performed for a single spectrum at a time. The number of mixture‐model components is estimated by the Bayesian information criterion. Before the main analysis, a few pre‐processing steps need to be done. Spectra should be subjected to calibration, normalization, denoising, baseline correction, etc. The aim of the work is to identify peptides in the analysed sample on the basis of the parameters of the mixture model and to find differences between spectra in the analysed set.
Association between psoriasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a population‐based study in Taiwan
Authors: Chiang Y.‐Y. , Lin H.‐W.
Published: March 2011

Background  Psoriasis is regarded as a systemic inflammatory disease, having been linked in recent studies, to a wide range of systemic disorders. Previous studies have reported a positive correlation between psoriasis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); however, no studies have been conducted on an ethnic Chinese population.

Methods  We conducted a population‐based study, using a representative cohort from the National Health Insurance database in Taiwan, between 2004 and 2006. The risk of COPD was compared between patients with psoriasis and a matched reference cohort. This study included 2096 psoriasis patients and 8384 randomly selected controls.

Results  After adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics and selected chronic diseases, the hazard ratio (HR) for COPD in psoriasis patients was 2.35 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.42–3.89) compared with the control group in 18 months of follow‐4 up. Men (HR = 2.38, 95% CI: 1.36–4.18) and patients with psoriasis over 50 years of age (HR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.27–3.77) were more likely to contract COPD.

Conclusions  We concluded that psoriasis patients were at a greater risk of developing COPD with significantly lower COPD‐free survival rates than the comparison cohort (P < 0.001). Physicians should be aware of this potential risk to reduce comorbidity and mortality.
Nilotinib counteracts thioacetamide‐induced hepatic oxidative stress and attenuates liver fibrosis progression
Authors: Shaker Mohamed E. , Salem Hatem A. , Shiha Gamal E. , Ibrahim Tarek M.
Published: March 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the effects of imatinib and nilotinib to that of silymarin on established liver fibrosis and oxidative stress in a thioacetamide (TAA) rat model. Male Wistar rats received intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections of TAA (150 mg/kg, twice weekly) for 12 weeks. Daily treatments with imatinib (10 mg/kg), nilotinib (10 mg/kg), and silymarin (100 mg/kg) were administered orally during the last 4 weeks of TAA‐administration. At the end of the study, hepatic damage was evaluated by analysis of liver function tests in serum. Hepatic histopathology and collagen content were employed to quantify liver fibrosis. Hepatic oxidative stress was assessed by measuring malondialdehyde (MDA), 4‐hydroxynonenal (4‐HNE), total nitrate/nitrite (NOx), and reduced glutathione (GSH) contents, as well as myeloperoxidase (MPO) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities. Nilotinib, silymarin and, to a lesser extent, imatinib treatments ameliorated TAA‐induced hepatic oxidative stress and damage as indicated by hepatic MDA, 4‐HNE, NOx, GSH, MPO and SOD levels, as well as liver function tests. Hepatic histopathology results revealed that nilotinib, imatinib, and silymarin treatments decreased the mean score of fibrosis in TAA‐treated rats by 24, 14, and 3%, respectively. However, nilotinib and silymarin, but not imatinib, treatments decreased hepatic collagen content in TAA‐treated rats by 17 and 36%, respectively. In conclusion, we demonstrated for the first time that nilotinib not only protected against hepatic oxidative stress, but also slowed down liver fibrosis progression. Thus, we provide the first evidence that nilotinib might be a promising anti‐fibrotic drug.
Lithium decreased endothelium‐mediated, but not nonadrenergic noncholinergic, relaxation of guinea pig corpus cavernosum in vitro: a role for nitrergic system
Authors: Ghasemi Mehdi , Farrokhi‐Khajeh‐Pasha Yasin , Ostovaneh Mohammad Reza , Dehpour Ahmad Reza
Published: March 2011

Lithium causes erectile dysfunction in patients but its mechanism is yet unknown. The aim of our study was to verify the effect of acute lithium administration on the nonadrenergic noncholinergic (NANC)‐ and endothelium‐mediated relaxation of guinea pig isolated corpus cavernosum. Although lithium (0.5, 1, and 5 mm) had no effect on the neurogenic relaxations, it significantly (P < 0.001) attenuated the relaxant responses to acetylcholine in a concentration‐dependent manner. Combination of low concentration of lithium (0.5 mm) with either 0.1 or 1 μm l‐NAME significantly (P < 0.001) reduced the endothelium‐mediated relaxation. Although the Nitric oxide (NO) precursor l‐arginine at 1 mm did not alter the relaxant responses to acetylcholine in control strips, it improved the inhibition by lithium (1 mm) of relaxant responses to acetylcholine. Sodium nitroprusside (SNP; 10 nm–1 mm) produced similar concentration‐dependent relaxations in both groups. Our experiments indicated that lithium can result in impairment of the NO‐mediated endothelium‐dependent but not NANC relaxation of guinea pig corpus cavernosum.
Pilot study on basophil activation induced by contrast medium
Authors: Böhm Ingrid , Speck Ulrich , Schild Hans H.
Published: March 2011

The purpose was to analyze the influence of both mono‐/dimeric X‐ray contrast media (CM) and immunological co‐factors on basophil degranulation. The study has been conducted in 31 adult patients who received nonionic CM injection for enhanced routine computed tomography examination. Plasma histamine, and basophil degranulation by using CD63 expression and flow‐cytometry in blood samples of patients receiving iotrolan or iopromide injections were analyzed in vivo and in vitro (with different stimuli) before and up to 24 h after CM‐injection. After iotrolan injection, histamine values remained unchanged and showed minimal increase after iopromide. In 5/12 patients receiving iopromide and in 5/19 in the iotrolan group histamine level rose (>100% of the baseline). After CM‐injection, a significant activation of basophils (CD63) could be measured (P < 0.05). IL‐3 prestimulus revealed a more pronounced CD63 expression after iopromide than after iotrolan. The IL‐1β prestimulus seemed to be dose‐dependent. Patients showing the most marked CM‐induced CD63 expression had the highest predose values after in vitro N‐formyl‐methionyl‐leucyl‐phenylalanine treatment. Our finding suggests that increased histamine values and CD63 expression on basophils could depend on individual stimuli. Iopromide and iotrolan per se neither enhanced histamine release nor basophil degranulation under normal conditions. Analysis of CD63 expression by using fluorescence activated cell sorter‐analysis is an interesting new tool to elucidate the complex conditions leading to CM‐mediated hypersensitivity reactions.
Sporamin induce apoptosis in human tongue carcinoma cells by down‐regulating Akt/GSK‐3 signaling
Authors: Yao Jun , Qian Cuijuan
Published: March 2011

We investigated the effects of sporamin, the major soluble protein with a kunitz‐type trypsin inhibitory activity in the root tuber of the sweet potato, on cell proliferation, apoptosis, Akt/GSK‐3 signaling and its related genes to provide more insights in the mechanism behind the inhibitory effects of sporamin in a human tongue cancer line Tca8113. In this study, sporamin inhibited cell proliferation and induced apoptosis in Tca8113 cells in a concentration‐dependent and time‐dependent manner. Consistently, Bax was up‐regulated and Bcl‐2 was down‐regulated in sporamin‐treated cells. Furthermore, Akt/GSK‐3 signaling was down‐regulated in sporamin‐treated cells. Consistently, the phosphorylated Bad was significantly declined in sporamin‐treated Tca8113 cells. These results suggest the antiproliferative effects of sporamin in Tca8113 cells might result partly from induction of apoptosis by down‐regulating Akt/GSK‐3 pathway.
Requirement of DDX39 DEAD box RNA helicase for genome integrity and telomere protection
Authors: Yoo Hyun Hee , Chung In Kwon
Published: March 2011

Human chromosome ends associate with shelterin, a six‐protein complex that protects telomeric DNA from being recognized as sites of DNA damage. The shelterin subunit TRF2 has been implicated in the protection of chromosome ends by facilitating their organization into the protective capping structure and by associating with several accessory proteins involved in various DNA transactions. Here we describe the characterization of DDX39 DEAD‐box RNA helicase as a novel TRF2‐interacting protein. DDX39 directly interacts with the telomeric repeat binding factor homology domain of TRF2 via the FXLXP motif (where X is any amino acid). DDX39 is also found in association with catalytically competent telomerase in cell lysates through an interaction with hTERT but has no effect on telomerase activity. Whereas overexpression of DDX39 in telomerase‐positive human cancer cells led to progressive telomere elongation, depletion of endogenous DDX39 by small hairpin RNA (shRNA) resulted in telomere shortening. Furthermore, depletion of DDX39 induced DNA‐damage response foci at internal genome as well as telomeres as evidenced by telomere dysfunction‐induced foci. Some of the metaphase chromosomes showed no telomeric signal at chromatid ends, suggesting an aberrant telomere structure. Our findings suggest that DDX39, in addition to its role in mRNA splicing and nuclear export, is required for global genome integrity as well as telomere protection and represents a new pathway for telomere maintenance by modulating telomere length homeostasis.
Differential influence of peripheral and systemic sex steroids on skeletal muscle quality in pre‐ and postmenopausal women
Authors: Pöllänen Eija , Sipilä Sarianna , Alen Markku , Ronkainen Paula H.A. , Ankarberg‐Lindgren Carina , Puolakka Jukka , Suominen Harri , Hämäläinen Esa , Turpeinen Ursula , Konttinen Yrjö T. , Kovanen Vuokko
Published: March 2011

Aging is associated with gradual decline of skeletal muscle strength and mass often leading to diminished muscle quality. This phenomenon is known as sarcopenia and affects about 30% of the over 60‐year‐old population. Androgens act as anabolic agents regulating muscle mass and improving muscle performance. The role of female sex steroids as well as the ability of skeletal muscle tissue to locally produce sex steroids has been less extensively studied. We show that despite the extensive systemic deficit of sex steroid hormones in postmenopausal compared to premenopausal women, the hormone content of skeletal muscle does not follow the same trend. In contrast to the systemic levels, muscle tissue of post‐ and premenopausal women had similar concentrations of dehydroepiandrosterone and androstenedione, while the concentrations of estradiol and testosterone were significantly higher in muscle of the postmenopausal women. The presence of steroidogenetic enzymes in muscle tissue indicates that the elevated postmenopausal steroid levels in skeletal muscle are because of local steroidogenesis. The circulating sex steroids were associated with better muscle quality while the muscle concentrations reflected the amount of infiltrated fat within muscle tissue. We conclude that systemically delivered and peripherally produced sex steroids have distinct roles in the regulation of neuromuscular characteristics during aging.
Siphuncular structure in the orders Tarphycerida and Barrandeocerida (Cephalopoda: Nautiloidea)
Authors: MUTVEI HARRY , DUNCA ELENA
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  The siphuncular structure is described in two Silurian taxa, Boionautilus tyrannus and Cumingsoceras complanatus, currently placed in the Tarpycerida. Tarphycerids have the Nautilus type of connecting ring that is composed of an outer, thick, spherulitic‐prismatic layer and an inner glycoprotein layer, the latter was destroyed by diagenesis. However, both Silurian specimens have the connecting ring of the calcified‐perforate type, previously known to occur in orthocerids, actinocerids, plectronocerids and now also in barrandeocerids. In this type, the inner layer of the connecting ring is calcified and perforated by pore canals. Boionautilus and Cumingsoceras are therefore classified with barrandeocerids and not with tarphycerids.
The political geographies of transitional justice
Authors: Jeffrey Alex
Published: March 2011

This paper examines how geographers can contribute to debates concerning transitional justice. Recent scholarship in criminology has identified a residual ‘legalism’ in the enactment and study of transitional justice: trial processes and the perspectives of jurists have been prioritised over wider processes of social healing and the perceptions of non‐legal actors. This paper explores how geographers can contribute to challenging this prioritisation of legal processes within the study and practice of transitional justice. This is achieved through an examination of attempts to establish forms of transitional justice in Bosnia and Herzegovina since the end of the war in 1995. Specifically, the paper explores the establishment in 2005 of the War Crimes Chamber of the Court of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the civil society‐based strategies it has employed to reach out to witnesses and victim populations. The paper makes two interlinked arguments. First, it examines how the international response to the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina placed justice at a distance from victim communities. Second, the paper argues that civil society activities undertaken to widen access to justice have opened up new spaces of deliberation and critique. It is argued that these spatialities point to possibilities of deliberative conceptions of justice fostered beyond legal institutions and processes.
Changes in body composition after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent in cirrhosis: a critical review of literature
Authors: Dasarathy Jaividhya , Alkhouri Naim , Dasarathy Srinivasan
Published: March 2011

Change in body composition with reduced muscle mass with or without loss of fat mass occurs in 60–90% of patients with cirrhosis. This has an adverse impact on the outcome of these patients and is an understudied area. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent (TIPS) is now a standard therapy for portal hypertension but its beneficial impact on nutritional indices is not well recognized. We included all publications on TIPS that had any nutritional index as an outcome measure or end point. Given the heterogeneity of the patient population, differences in study design and outcome measures, a meta‐analysis was not feasible. Data were summarized and interpreted. A total of eight studies have been published on the changes in body composition after TIPS in cirrhosis in a total of 152 patients followed for 3–12 months. Improvement in fat‐free mass and fluid‐free or ascites‐free body weight was reported in all studies. Plasma leptin, IGF1, insulin sensitivity, rate of glucose disposal and growth hormone did not change after TIPS. One study measured muscle strength that improved. Direct measurement of skeletal muscle mass was not performed in any study. TIPS resulted in an improvement in body composition. Given the clinical significance of skeletal muscle and fat mass in cirrhosis, nutritional indices should be considered to be an important outcome measure in patients with TIPS. The mechanism of these is unclear, but its clinical implication is that this may contribute to the improved survival after TIPS.
Propranolol for Infantile Hemangiomas
Authors: Bagazgoitia Lorea , Torrelo Antonio , Gutiérrez Juan Carlos López , Hernández‐Martín Ángela , Luna Paula , Gutiérrez Marta , Baño Antonio , Tamariz Amalia , Larralde Margarita , Alvarez Roser , Pardo Nuria , Baselga Eulalia
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  Propranolol has been used successfully in a limited number of children with infantile hemangiomas. This multicenter retrospective study describes the efficacy and adverse effects of propranolol in infantile hemangioma. Seventy‐one infants with infantile hemangiomas were treated with oral propranolol, 1 mg/kg/12 hours, for at least 12 weeks. A photograph based severity scoring assessment was performed by five observers to evaluate efficacy, utilizing a scoring system of 10 as the original infantile hemangioma before treatment and 0 as completely normal skin. The mean of the five independent measurements was used in the analysis. Propranolol was a rapid and effective treatment for infantile hemangiomas at 4 weeks (p < 0.001), at 8 weeks (p < 0.001 compared to the 4 wks value), at 12 weeks (p < 0.05 compared to the 8 wks value), and thereafter up to 32 weeks (p < 0.01 compared to the 16 wks value). The response of infantile hemangiomas to propranolol was similar regardless of sex, age at onset of treatment, type of involvement (segmental and nonsegmental), facial segments affected, special locations (eyelid, nasal tip, and parotid region), ulceration, and depth of infantile hemangiomas. Very few side effects were reported; mainly agitated sleep in 10 of 71 patients. In the series of patients in this study, oral propranolol 2 mg/kg/day was a well‐tolerated and effective treatment for infantile hemangiomas. Prospective studies are needed to establish the exact role of propranolol in the treatment of infantile hemangiomas.
Bier Spots in Two Children
Authors: TUNCA MUSTAFA , CALISKAN ERCAN , ERBIL HAKAN , AKAR AHMET
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  Bier spots are a distinct pattern of vascular mottling. Most reported cases are in young adults, with the youngest case in the literature at age 15 years. We report two children, ages 11 and 12 years, with Bier spots. Patient 1 was an 11‐year‐old boy who presented with white spots on the dorsal aspect of his hands. Patient 2 was a 12‐year‐old girl who presented with similar spots on the dorsal aspect of her left forearm and left hand. In both patients, the spots were visible when extremities were placed in a dependent position and disappeared with elevation of the extremity. Both patients were otherwise healthy.
Cutaneous Mastocytosis in Twins: Multiple Mastocytomas and Urticaria Pigmentosa in Two Pairs of Monozygotic Twins
Authors: SOTTA PILAR de la , ROMERO WILLIAM A. , KRAMER DANIELA , CÁRDENAS CONSUELO , GONZÁLEZ SERGIO
Published: March 2011

Abstract:  We report two sets of monozygotic twins with cutaneous mastocytosis: one set with urticaria pigmentosa and the other set with multiple mastocytomas. This is the first report of multiple mastocytomas in twins to our knowledge.
A Value Model for Evaluating Homeland Security Decisions
Authors: Keeney Ralph L. , von Winterfeldt Detlof
Published: March 2011

One of the most challenging tasks of homeland security policymakers is to allocate their limited resources to reduce terrorism risks cost effectively. To accomplish this task, it is useful to develop a comprehensive set of homeland security objectives, metrics to measure each objective, a utility function, and value tradeoffs relevant for making homeland security investments. Together, these elements form a homeland security value model. This article develops a homeland security value model based on literature reviews, a survey, and experience with building value models. The purposes of the article are to motivate the use of a value model for homeland security decision making and to illustrate its use to assess terrorism risks, assess the benefits of countermeasures, and develop a severity index for terrorism attacks.
Consequences of Fetal Programming for Cardiovascular Disease in Adulthood
Authors: LEACH LOPA , MANN GIOVANNI E.
Published: March 2011

Please cite this paper as: Leach and Mann (2011). Consequences of Fetal Programming for Cardiovascular Disease in Adulthood. Microcirculation 18(4), 253–255.

This Spotlight Issue of Microcirculation contains six current perspectives on the role of the intrauterine environment, especially maternal nutritional status and maternal diabetes, in influencing fetal growth and cardiovascular health in the offspring in later life. The reviews address issues such as the existence of a commonality of mechanism following both under‐nutritional and over‐nutritional states in utero; alterations in the placental fetal microcirculation in response to maternal and fetal changes; transmission of metabolic or nutritional perturbations affecting fetal endogenous antioxidant defense pathways; the presence of a disadvantageous microvascular phenotype resulting from perinatal priming; interactions between developmental programming and genetic variation in noncommunicable adult diseases such as hypertension and hypercholesterolemia; and unresolved questions on the independency and causal mechanisms for low birth weight/intrauterine growth restriction and the risk of developing the metabolic syndrome. These timely reviews highlight the accumulating evidence that changes in the intrauterine environment have pronounced effects on vascular function in the offspring whether due to maternal diabetes or altered maternal nutritional status or fetal and perinatal overnutrition.
A novel copper complex induces paraptosis in colon cancer cells via the activation of ER stress signalling
Authors: Gandin Valentina , Pellei Maura , Tisato Francesco , Porchia Marina , Santini Carlo , Marzano Cristina
Published: March 2011

Platinum anticancer drugs have been used for three decades despite their serious side effects and the emerging of resistance phenomena. Recently, a phosphine copper(I) complex, [Cu(thp)4][PF6] (CP), gained special attention because of its strong antiproliferative effects. CP killed human colon cancer cells more efficiently than cisplatin and oxaliplatin and it overcame platinum drug resistance. CP preferentially reduced cancer cell viability whereas non‐tumour cells were poorly affected. Colon cancer cells died via a programmed cell death whose transduction pathways were characterized by the absence of hallmarks of apoptosis. The inhibition of 26S proteasome activities induced by CP caused intracellular accumulation of polyubiquitinated proteins and the functional suppression of the ubiquitin–proteasome pathway thus triggering endoplasmic reticulum stress. These data, providing a mechanistic characterization of CP‐induced cancer cell death, shed light on the signaling pathways involved in paraptosis thus offering a new tool to overcome apoptosis‐resistance in colon cancer cells.
Stable region for maxillary dental cast superimposition in adults, studied with the aid of stable miniscrews
Authors: Chen G , Chen S , Zhang XY , Jiang RP , Liu Y , Shi FH , Xu TM
Published: March 2011

To cite this article:
 Chen G, Chen S, Zhang XY, Jiang RP, Liu Y, Shi FH, Xu TM:  Stable region for maxillary dental cast superimposition in adults, studied with the aid of stable miniscrews  Orthod Craniofac Res 2011;14:70–79

Structured Abstract

Authors –  Chen G, Chen S, Zhang XY, Jiang RP, Liu Y, Shi FH, Xu TM

Objectives –  To identify a stable and reproducible reference region to superimpose serial maxillary dental models in adult extraction cases.

Setting and Sample Population –  Fifteen adult volunteers were enrolled.

Methods –  To reduce protrusion, bilateral maxillary first premolars were extracted in all volunteers. Each volunteer received six miniscrews, including two loaded miniscrews used to retract anterior teeth and four unloaded miniscrews. Impressions for maxillary models were taken at T1 (1 week after miniscrew placement) and T2 (17 months later). Dental models were created and then scanned using a laser scanner. Stability of the miniscrews was evaluated, and dental models were registered using stationary miniscrews. The palatal region, where deviation was within 0.5 mm in all subjects, was determined to be the stable region. Reproducibility of the new palatal region for 3D digital model superimposition was evaluated.

Results –  Deviation of the medial 2/3 of the palatal region between the third rugae and the line in contact with the distal surface of the bilateral maxillary first molars was within 0.5 mm. Tooth movement of 15 subjects was measured to evaluate the validity of the new 3D superimposition method. Displacements were 8.18 ± 2.94 mm (central incisor) and 2.25 ± 0.73 mm (first molar) measured by miniscrew superimposition, while values of 7.81 ± 2.53 mm (central incisor) and 2.29 ± 1.03 mm (first molar) were measured using the 3D palatal vault regional superimposition method; no significant difference was observed.

Conclusion –  The medial 2/3 of the third rugae and the regional palatal vault dorsal to it is a stable region to register 3D digital models for evaluation of orthodontic tooth movement in adult patients.
Gender role behaviour in prenatally dexamethasone‐treated children at risk for congenital adrenal hyperplasia – a pilot study
Authors: Hirvikoski Tatja , Lindholm Torun , Lajic Svetlana , Nordenström Anna
Published: March 2011

Aim:  To investigate the effects of prenatal dexamethasone (DEX) exposure on gender role behaviour.

Methods:  The participants were 25 of the 40 children (62%, mean age 11 years) at risk for CAH treated with DEX prenatally during the years 1985–1995 in Sweden. The control group consisted of 35 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy children. A new inventory, the Karolinska Inventory of Gender Role Behaviour (KI‐GRB), was developed to assess directly school‐age children’s behaviour, and was evaluated using a separate sample of 160 school‐age children.

Results:  DEX‐treated CAH‐unaffected boys showed more neutral behaviours than the controls (p = 0.04), while the DEX‐treated CAH‐unaffected girls did not differ from the controls after adjusting for the site of residence. There was a larger variation in the behaviour of the DEX‐treated boys (p < 0.05) and a tendency for less‐masculine behaviours in the DEX‐treated CAH‐unaffected children (p = 0.13). There were no between‐group differences in the feminine behaviours. Recalculation of the analyses including the CAH‐affected children showed analogous results.

Conclusions:  This pilot study indicates that the gender role behaviour may be affected in boys as an effect of DEX exposure in early pregnancy. Larger retrospective studies are needed for more conclusive results.