bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Use of Anatomic M‐Mode Echocardiography to Determine the Left Atrial Appendage Functions in Patients with Sinus Rhythm
Authors: Gurlertop Yekta , Yilmaz Mustafa , Acikel Mahmut , Bozkurt Engin , Erol M. Kemal , Gundogdu Fuat , Senocak Huseyin , Atesal Sebahattin
Published: February 2005

Left atrial appendage (LAA) contractile dysfunction is associated with thrombus formation and systemic embolism. LAA function is determined by its flow velocities and fractional area change. This study was performed in order to determine the LAA functions with the anatomic M‐mode echocardiography (AMME). Our study comprised 74 patients who had sinus rhythm and underwent transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for various reasons. LAA fractional change (LAAFAC) was measured by manual planimetry in a transverse basal short‐axis approach and LAA emptying and filling velocities also were measured. The AMME values were determined by an M‐mode cross section from a cursor placed beneath the orifice of the LAA in transverse basal short‐axis imaging. From these values LAA fractional shortening (LAAFS) and ejection fraction (LAAEF) were calculated. LAAEF was calculated by the Teicholz method. The comparisons were conducted, and no correlations between the LAA late filling and the anatomic M‐mode values were found (for LAAFS r = 0.18; P > 0.05 and for LAAEF r = 0.19; P > 0.05). There were significant but poor correlations among the LAA late emptying with the anatomic M‐mode measurements (for LAAFS r = 0.26; P < 0.05 and for LAAEF r = 0.30; P < 0.01), whereas, there were significant and good correlations between the LAAFAC and the anatomic M‐mode values (for LAAFS r = 0.75; P < 0.01 and for LAAEF r = 0.78; P < 0.01). There were significant differences between the valvular heart disease group and the normal group, and between the valvular heart disease group and the ASD group (for LAAFAC P < 0.01, for LAAEF P < 0.01, for LAAFS P < 0.01). There was no difference between the normal group and the ASD group. Our study showed that the LAAEF and LAAFS in patients with sinus rhythm obtained via anatomical M‐mode echocardiography is a new method, which can be used instead of left atrial appendage area change.
Freehand Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography with Rotational Scanning for Measurements of Left Ventricular Volume and Ejection Fraction in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Fukuda Shota , Hozumi Takeshi , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Muro Takashi , Yamagishi Hiroyuki , Yoshiyama Minoru , Takeuchi Kazuhide , Yoshikawa Junichi
Published: February 2005

Background: Measurement of left ventricular (LV) volumes and ejection fraction (EF) is important in managing patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Introduction of free‐hand three‐dimensional echocardiography (3DE) system which is equipped with small magnetic tracking system and average rotational geometry for LV volumes may provide easy and accurate quantification of LV systolic function in CAD patients. Purpose: To evaluate the feasibility and accuracy of LV volumes and EF measurement by free‐hand 3DE with rotational geometry in patients with CAD. Methods and Results: The study subjects consisted of consecutive 25 patients with CAD who were scheduled for quantitative gated single‐photon emission computed tomography (QGS). LV end‐diastolic volume (EDV), end‐systolic volume (ESV), and EF were determined by conventional two‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE), 3DE, and QGS. Three‐dimensional echocardiography data acquisition and analysis were possible in 22 of 25 subjects (feasibility 88%). In this 3DE system, image acquisition time was 2 minutes, and 5 minutes were needed for off‐line analysis of LV volumes and EF. Correlations and the limits of agreement between 3DE and QGS (r = 0.97, 0.0 ± 9.1 ml for EDV, r = 0.99, 0.0 ± 5.0 ml for ESV, and r = 0.97, 0.5 ± 3.3% for EF, respectively) were superior to those between 2DE and QGS (r = 0.85, 12.6 ± 26.8 ml for EDV, r = 0.85, 9.7 ± 26.1 ml for ESV, and r = 0.90, −1.3 ± 6.9% for EF, respectively). Inter‐ and intra‐observer variabilities of 3DE were smaller than that of 2DE (5% vs 10%, 5% vs 10% for EDV, 6% vs 13%, 5% vs 9% for ESV, and 4% vs 11%, 4% vs 6% for EF, respectively). Conclusion: Three‐dimensional echocardiography using magnetic tracking system and average rotational geometry offered a feasible and accurate method for quantification of LV volumes and EF in patients with CAD.
Noninvasive Evaluation of a Cutting Balloon Entrapped in a Left Main Coronary Artery Using Transesophageal Echocardiography
Authors: Güven Hasan , Thanigaraj Srihari , Beardslee Michael
Published: February 2005

There are reports in the literature describing the utility of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in the evaluation of the coronary arteries. Studies have also shown the value of TEE in patients undergoing coronary intervention such as assessing coronary anatomy and flow following angioplasty. We report an interesting case where TEE helped to establish the location of a fractured cutting balloon device lodged in the left main coronary artery and obviated the need for cardiac surgery to remove the fractured balloon catheter. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of this type of complication utilizing a cutting balloon device.
Myocardial Viability: Nuclear Assessment
Authors: Mehta Deval , Iskandrian Ami E.
Published: February 2005

There are an estimated 5 million patients with congestive heart failure (CHF) in the United States. The long‐term outcome in these patients is poor with a 5‐year mortality of 70%. There is evidence suggesting that revascularization in patients with viable myocardium can result in reduced event rate in these patients. The presence of viable myocardium best identifies patients who will improve with revascularization. Noninvasive imaging with radionuclide tracers has been used extensively to identify the presence and extent of viable myocardium. We have summarized the role of radionuclide myocardial perfusion and function evaluation in assessment of viable myocardium in this review.
Role of F‐18 FDG Positron Emission Tomography (PET) in the Assessment of Myocardial Viability
Authors: Ghesani Munir , DePuey E. Gordon , Rozanski Alan
Published: February 2005

Positron emission tomography (PET) is a functional imaging technique with important clinical applications in cardiology, oncology, and neurology. In cardiac imaging, its role has been extensively evaluated in the noninvasive diagnosis of coronary artery disease and in the determination of prognosis. Additionally, cardiac PET with F‐18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) is very helpful in selection of patients with coronary artery disease and left ventricular dysfunction who would benefit from coronary artery revascularization. Cardiac PET is arguably considered by many as a gold standard in this particular application. F‐18, unlike other positron emitters, has a reasonably long physical half‐life, which permits its distribution through commercial radiopharmacies. This is further facilitated by increasing popularity of FDG PET in oncology, which makes cardiac FDG PET a practical option for hospitals and outpatient centers equipped with PET scanners. In addition, gamma camera single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) systems, routinely used in nuclear medicine departments, can be equipped with coincidence circuit or high‐energy 511 KeV collimators, providing a cost‐effective means of FDG cardiac imaging. Myocardial utilization of glucose as a substrate is variable, depending, among other factors, on serum levels of glucose and insulin. Therefore, patient preparation is important in obtaining good‐quality images and in turn allowing for accurate interpretation of myocardial viability. There are various protocols to choose from that provide diagnostic image quality in both diabetic and nondiabetic patients. Mismatch between blood flow and FDG metabolism, an indicator of viable, jeopardized myocardium, can predict postrevascularization improvement in left ventricular function, symptomatic relief, and long‐term survival.
Assessment of Myocardial Viability by Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Lloyd Steven G. , Gupta Himanshu
Published: February 2005

Patients with ischemic heart disease may have left ventricular (LV) dysfunction due to reversible or irreversible causes. The ability to distinguish viable myocardium with dysfunction due to a reversible etiology (hibernation, stunning) from nonviable scar is critical for determining proper management of the patient. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) is a technique that has been established to be useful for the detection of myocardial viability and advancements in the field promise to further increase its utility. In this review we describe the features of CMR that make it suited for this purpose and outline promising developments that may soon make CMR the reference standard for viability assessment.
Inflammatory bowel disease related osteonecrosis: report of a large series with a review of the literature
Authors: Klingenstein G. , Levy R. N. , Kornbluth A. , Shah A. K. , Present D. H.
Published: February 2005

Background : Osteonecrosis is a major complication of inflammatory bowel disease usually associated with steroid use. There are few large series available detailing the specifics of affected patients.

Aim : To identify any specific characteristics of osteonecrosis in this cohort. A major focus was placed on steroid dose, the average time between diagnosis of IBD and appearance of osteonecrosis and the frequency of multiple joint involvement.

Methods : Our study identified 23 patients in the practices of five gastroenterologists at the Mount Sinai Medical Center. We retrospectively reviewed their clinical history, as well as imaging studies. We classified osteonecrosis according to the Association Research Circulation Osseous (ARCO) staging system.

Results : Although our prednisone dosing data could not be used as an accurate predictor of onset or joint distribution, there was a tendency for correlation between the average daily dosing and the ARCO score. The ARCO scoring system was consistent for patients with bilateral hip involvement. The distribution of affected joints in IBD is similar to other conditions associated with osteonecrosis, with hips being the most frequently involved joints. Data showed bilateral involvement in most hips, but usually unilateral disease in the shoulders and knees. Treatment options include core decompression for early stages, whereas joint replacement surgery is required for stages 3 and 4.

Conclusion : IBD predisposes patients to corticosteroid induced osteonecrosis. An exact threshold dose has not been determined. The data suggests that either long term therapy or short term high dose treatment increases the risk of osteonecrosis. Even if symptoms are limited to one joint, multiple joints are often involved and comprehensive testing with MRI is indicated in all cases.
Review article: diagnosis and management of mesenteric ischaemia with an emphasis on pharmacotherapy
Authors: Kozuch P. L. , Brandt L. J.
Published: February 2005

Mesenteric ischaemia results from decreased blood flow to the bowel, causing cellular injury from lack of oxygen and nutrients. Acute mesenteric ischaemia (AMI) is an uncommon disorder with high morbidity and mortality, but outcomes are improved with prompt recognition and aggressive treatment. Five subgroups of AMI have been identified, with superior mesenteric artery embolism (SMAE) the most common. Older age and cardiovascular disease are common risk factors for AMI, excepting acute mesenteric venous thrombosis (AMVT), which affects younger patients with hypercoaguable states. AMI is characterized by sudden onset of abdominal pain; a benign abdominal exam may be observed prior to bowel infarction. Conventional angiography and more recently, computed tomography angiography, are the cornerstones of diagnosis. Correction of predisposing conditions, volume resuscitation and antibiotic treatment are standard treatments for AMI, and surgery is mandated in the setting of peritoneal signs. Intra‐arterial vasodilators are used routinely in the treatment of non‐occlusive mesenteric ischaemia (NOMI) and also are advocated in the treatment of occlusive AMI to decrease associated vasospasm. Thrombolytics have been used on a limited basis to treat occlusive AMI. A variety of agents have been studied in animal models to treat reperfusion injury, which sometimes can be more harmful than ischaemic injury. Chronic mesenteric ischaemia (CMI) usually is caused by severe obstructive atherosclerotic disease of two or more splanchnic vessels, presents with post‐prandial pain and weight loss, and is treated by either surgical revascularization or percutaneous angioplasty and stenting.
Esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily in triple therapy and the efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication related to CYP2C19 metabolism
Authors: Sheu B.‐S. , Kao A.‐W. , Cheng H.‐C. , Hunag S.‐F. , Chen T.‐W. , Lu C.‐C. , Wu J.‐J.
Published: February 2005

Aim : To determine whether an increased dosage of esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily in triple therapy improved the Helicobacter pylori eradication rate for patients with different genotypes of S‐mephenytoin 4′‐hydroxylase (CYP2C19).

Methods : Two hundred H. pylori‐infected dyspeptic patients were randomized to receive clarithromycin 500 mg twice daily and amoxicillin 1 g twice daily plus either omeprazole 20 mg or esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily for 1 week. Six weeks later, the success of H. pylori eradication was defined. The genotyping of CYP2C19 in each patient was defined as homologous, heterologous extensive metabolizer or poor metabolizer.

Results : The age, gender, drug compliance and proportion of CYP2C19 genotypes were similar between the two groups. The H. pylori eradication rates were also similar between the omeprazole group and the esomeprazole group (intention‐to‐treat analysis: 79% vs. 86%, P > 0.05; per‐protocol analysis: 85% vs. 94%, P > 0.05). For patients classified as homologous extensive metabolizers, the per‐protocol H. pylori eradication rate was significantly higher in the esomeprazole group than in the omeprazole group (93% vs. 76%, P < 0.05).

Conclusion : Esomeprazole 40 mg twice daily for triple therapy may improve the H. pylori eradication compared to omeprazole‐based therapy, but only for homologous extensive metabolizers of CYP2C19.
Mental distress in patients with functional or organic dyspepsia: a comparative study with a sample of the general population
Authors: Pajala M. , Heikkinen M. , Hintikka J.
Published: February 2005

Background : It has been argued that patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders have mental disorders more often than healthy controls and patients with organic disease. Most studies surveying psychological factors at the population level have relied on symptom questionnaires to diagnose functional dyspepsia. However, the symptom patterns alone are unable to adequately discriminate organic from functional dyspepsia.

Aim : To evaluate the frequency of mental distress in primary care patients with organic or functional dyspepsia and compare the findings with a sample of the Finnish general population.

Methods : Four‐hundred consecutive, unselected dyspeptic patients were referred for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and other diagnostic examinations. All patients compiled a self‐administered questionnaire including the 12‐item General Health Questionnaire to detect cases of recent mental disorders.

Results : The prevalence of mental distress among patients with functional and organic dyspepsia was 38 and 36.4% respectively. The sex‐ and age‐adjusted risk of having mental distress was nearly fourfold higher among patients with dyspepsia than in the general population.

Conclusion : Mental distress is common among patients with functional or organic dyspepsia. Nevertheless, there is no difference between patients with functional or organic dyspepsia in the prevalence or risk of mental distress.
Utility of a depression score to predict candidacy for hepatitis C virus therapy in veterans: a prospective longitudinal study
Authors: Tavakoli‐Tabasi S. , Rowan P. , Abdul‐Latif M. , Kunik M. E. , El‐Serag H. B.
Published: February 2005

Background : The frequency and determinants of receipt of antiviral therapy once a diagnosis of a mood disorder is established in hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐infected patients remains unknown.

Aim : To examine the incidence and determinants of receiving antiviral therapy in HCV‐infected veterans with abnormal scores of Zung Self‐Rating Depression Scale (SDS).

Methods : We systematically evaluated the presence of psychiatric disorders among HCV‐infected patients with initial referral between September 2000 and May 2002. We reviewed medical records, obtained history, and administered Zung SDS to evaluate for depressive symptoms. Patients with psychiatric disorders were referred for psychiatric evaluation. The primary outcome was the receipt of antiviral therapy during and after the initial evaluation up to December 1, 2003. The association between SDS scores and receipt of antiviral therapy was examined in a multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results : A total of 424 patients completed a Zung SDS. The scores were normal in only 43% of all patients, and were impaired mildly in 25%, moderately in 23%, and severely in 9%. Zung SDS scores were significantly higher in patients who served during the Vietnam War era, participated in combat, or had lower albumin levels. At the end of the first visit, 180 (42%) had psychiatric disorders. An abnormal Zung score (>55) was the only reason for referral to psychiatry in 83 of 180 patients; and in those 78 (94%) a formal psychiatric evaluation confirmed depressive disorder. Psychiatric disorders were the sole contraindication to therapy in 145 (34%) patients in whom eligibility for antiviral therapy was achieved in 42 (29%) during a mean follow‐up duration of 27 months.

Conclusions : Approximately one‐quarter of patients with psychiatric disorders may become eligible for antiviral therapy following subsequent management of these disorders. The Zung self‐screening test is an easy, valid method for detecting mood disorders in HCV‐infected veterans.
The safety of proton pump inhibitors in pregnancy: a multicentre prospective controlled study
Authors: Diav‐Citrin O. , Arnon J. , Shechtman S. , Schaefer C. , van Tonningen M. R. , Clementi M. , de Santis M. , Robert‐Gnansia E. , Valti E. , Malm H. , Ornoy A.
Published: February 2005

Background : Proton pump inhibitors are used to treat gastro‐oesophageal reflux and peptic ulcers. Gastro‐oesophageal reflux is a common condition in pregnancy. Human pregnancy experience with lansoprazole or pantoprazole is very limited. More data exist on the safety of omeprazole in pregnancy.

Aim : To assess the safety of proton pump inhibitors in pregnancy.

Methods : The rate of major anomalies was compared between pregnant women exposed to omeprazole, lanzoprazole, or pantoprazole and a control group counselled for non‐teratogens. The study design is a multicentre (n = 8), prospective, controlled study of the European Network of Teratology Information Services.

Results : We followed up 295 pregnancies exposed to omeprazole [233 in the first trimester (T1)], 62 to lansoprazole (55 in T1) and 53 to pantoprazole (47 in T1), and compared pregnancy outcome to that of 868 European Network of Teratology Information Services controls. The rate of major congenital anomalies did not differ between the exposed and control groups [omeprazole nine of 249 (3.6%), lansoprazole two of 51 (3.9%) and pantoprazole one of 48 (2.1%) vs. controls 30 of 792 = 3.8%]. No differences were found when exposure was limited to the first trimester after exclusion of genetic, cytogenetic or infectious anomalies.

Conclusions : This study suggests that proton pump inhibitors do not represent a major teratogenic risk in humans.
B‐cell lymphoma associated with haemophagocytic syndrome: a clinical, immunological and cytogenetic study
Authors: Shimazaki Chihiro , Inaba Tohru , Shimura Kazuho , Okamoto Akio , Takahashi Ryoichi , Hirai Hideyo , Sudo Yoshikazu , Ashihara Eishi , Adachi Yoko , Murakami Satoshi , Saigo Katsuyasu , Fujita Naohisa , Nakagawa Masao
Published: February 2005

B‐cell lymphoma associated with haemophagocytic syndrome (HPS) is extremely rare in Western countries but has recently been increasingly reported in Asian countries. We describe seven patients with B‐cell lymphoma associated with HPS, six males and one female, age range 41–82 years (median 63 years). All patients had fever and splenomegaly, and six of the seven patients had hepatomegaly with no associated lymphadenopathy. The bone marrow showed haemophagocytosis and an infiltration of lymphoma cells. All patients showed increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase, C‐reactive protein, ferritin and soluble interleukin‐2 receptor. Lymphoma cells were positive for CD19, CD20 and surface immunoglobulin in all patients examined, and positive for CD5 in four of seven patients. Cytogenetic analyses of bone marrow cells showed a complex structural abnormality including chromosome 14q32 in two patients, 19q13 in three patients and deletion of the terminal part of 8p21 in six patients. The prognosis was poor; only two of the seven patients have survived in complete remission with a median survival of 11 months. These data suggested that B‐cell lymphoma associated with HPS might constitute a distinct biological and clinical disease entity. Abnormality of chromosome 19q13 and loss of 8p21 might be involved in the pathogenesis of this disease.
Rapid assignment of the swine major histocompatibility complex (SLA) class I and II genotypes in Clawn miniature swine using PCR‐SSP and PCR‐RFLP methods
Authors: Ando Asako , Ota Masao , Sada Masaharu , Katsuyama Yoshihiko , Goto Rieko , Shigenari Atsuko , Kawata Hisako , Anzai Tatsuya , Iwanaga Takahiro , Miyoshi Yukari , Fujimura Nobuyuki , Inoko Hidetoshi
Published: February 2005

Abstract:  Background:  Inbred miniature swine with defined novel SLA haplotypes will be useful in allo‐ and xeno‐transplantation studies, which can be carried out representing variable combinations of SLA haplotypes.

Methods:  In Clawn miniature swine, two haplotypes (c1 and c2) and one crossover haplotype (c3) have been assigned by nucleotide sequence determination of RT‐PCR products of the three SLA classical class I genes and two SLA class II genes. To select SLA class I and II homozygotes in Clawn miniature swine individuals, we developed a rapid and simple SLA‐class I‐ and II‐DNA typing method by a combination of polymerase chain reaction‐sequence specific primer (PCR‐SSP) and polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) techniques.

Results:  Seven allele specific primer pairs were designed for amplification of the second exons of three SLA class I genes, SLA‐1, SLA‐2, and SLA‐3, and one SLA class II gene, DRB1. Furthermore, based on PCR‐RFLP patterns in the SLA‐DQB1 gene, two allelic variants were recognized in the second exon in the Clawn miniature swine. Three haplotypes, c1, c2 and c3, were simply identified by the combination of PCR‐SSP and PCR‐RFLP methods in 22 samples from five families. A single allele at each of the class I and II genes was also observed in seven samples as SLA class I and II homozygotes with either the c1 or c2 haplotype.

Conclusions:  The combination of PCR‐SSP and PCR‐RFLP methods facilitate the rapid identification of the three haplotypes and SLA class I and II homozygotes in individual Clawn miniature swine.
Prevention, detection, and management of early bacterial and fungal infections in a preclinical cardiac xenotransplantation model that achieves prolonged survival
Authors: Teotia Sumeet S. , Walker Randall C. , Schirmer Johannes M. , Tazelaar Henry D. , Michaels Marian G. , Risdahl Jack M. , Byrne Guerard W. , Logan John S. , McGregor Christopher G. A.
Published: February 2005

Abstract:  Background:  We analyzed bacterial and fungal infectious complications in a cohort of 16 consecutive experiments with the longest surviving cardiac xenografts to date. Methods: Transgenic, porcine‐to‐baboon, heterotopic (abdomen) cardiac xenotransplantation was performed in 16 consecutive experiments, using rapamycin, tacrolimus, corticosteroids, anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody, and an alpha‐Gal‐PEG polymer, as immunosuppression. Prophylactic anti‐microbials included i.v. trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, oral ganciclovir/valganciclovir, and oral itraconazole. An episode of bacterial infection was defined as a positive blood and/or wound culture with: leukocytosis, fever >101.5°F, and/or clinical deterioration. Results: Mean graft survival was 71 ± 29 days; the longest was 113 days. There were 23 episodes of bacterial infection; 14 resolved with treatment. The mean time to the first episode of infection was 44 ± 21 days (n = 12). Eight of 16 deaths were due to infection: two bacterial‐only, two cytomegalovirus (CMV) only, four both bacterial and CMV, and none fungal. The frequency of infection was 1, 2.8, and 1.8 episodes/100 survival days, respectively, for animals whose grafts survived for 30 to 59, 60 to 89, and >90 days. CMV infection (reviewed in detail in a separate communications) was due to baboon CMV, and was associated with low serum levels of ganciclovir. Conclusion: In a cardiac xenograft model that achieved prolonged (>3 months) survival, bacteremia was common, but usually reversible, and fungal infection was prevented with prophylaxis. The level of immunosuppression required to achieve clinically meaningful xenograft survival is associated with a level of bacterial and fungal infectious complications that is manageable and similar to the early clinical experiences in human transplantation. Further research will determine if the viral infectious complications observed in these experiments can be reduced by optimizing blood levels of anti‐viral prophylaxis and monitoring viral polymerase chain reaction levels.
Transgenic pigs expressing human CD59, in combination with human membrane cofactor protein and human decay‐accelerating factor
Authors: Zhou Chun‐Yan , McInnes Elizabeth , Copeman Laura , Langford Gillian , Parsons Nicola , Lancaster Richard , Richards Andrew , Carrington Christine , Thompson Simon
Published: February 2005

Abstract:  Background:  The expression of human complement regulators has been proved as an effective strategy to overcome hyperacute rejection in discordant xenogeneic organ transplantation. In this study, we tested the hypotheses that expression of triple transgenes for human complement regulators and provide more effective protection to the transplanted pig tissues.

Methods:  Pigs transgenic for human complement regulatory proteins, human CD59 (hCD59) and human membrane cofactor protein (hMCP), have been generated using large genomic constructs. Heterozygous human decay‐accelerating factor (hDAF) transgenic pigs, from a previously established line, were bred with hCD59 or hCD59 plus hMCP pigs to produce animals that expressed both hCD59 and hDAF, or expressed triple transgenes hCD59, hDAF and hMCP.

Results:  All three transgenes were widely expressed in most of the tissues analyzed, but the expression of hMCP was at low levels. In cytotoxicity assays on porcine peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the expression of a single transgenic protein, hCD59, or hCD59 in combination with hMCP provided similar protection against human complement‐mediated damage as the single expression of hDAF. However, the expression of triple transgenic proteins or double hCD59 and hDAF transgenic proteins provided greater protection than either hCD59 or hDAF alone.

Conclusions:  Thus, pigs transgenic for multiple transgenes provide a greater degree of human complement regulation and hence might be more suitable for xenotransplantation.
Evaluation of a diet free of animal protein in germfree swine
Authors: Loynachan A. T. , Pettigrew J. E. , Wiseman B. S. , Kunkle R. A. , Harris D. L.
Published: February 2005

Abstract:  Background: 
Two experiments were conducted in which germfree pigs or pigs monoassociated with Lactobacillus paracasei subspecies paracasei were fed either a traditional milk‐based diet (Esbilac) or an experimental diet free of animal protein (DFAP).

Methods:  Throughout the 16‐day study, animals’ clinical condition, total weight gain, feed conversion, and bacterial contamination were monitored. At the conclusion of the study the animals were killed, necropsied and tissues sampled for L. paracasei isolation.

Results:  General pig disposition remained consistent between treatment groups and trials, except for two animals that developed mild diarrhoea during trial 1. All pigs remained viable during the study irrespective the diet fed or probiotic inoculation. Germfree pigs fed the Esbilac diet gained on average a total of 1034 ± 63.0 g, and had a feed conversion ratio of 0.17 ± 0.01 g of gain per 1 ml of diet. Germfree pigs fed the experimental diet gained on average a total of 599 ± 151 g, and had a feed conversion ratio of 0.10 ± 0.02 g of gain per 1 ml of diet. Monoassociated pigs fed the Esbilac diet gained on average a total of 862 ± 70.3 g, and had a feed conversion ratio 0.14 ± 0.01 g of gain per 1 ml of diet. Monoassociated pigs fed the experimental diet gained on average a total of 563 ± 96.8 g, and had a feed conversion ratio of 0.09 ± 0.02 g of gain per 1 ml of diet. Lactobacillus paracasei established extensively in pigs fed either the Esbilac or experimental diets. Lactobacillus paracasei had no effect (P > 0.05) on piglet growth and did not display any interactions based on the diet fed. Measured growth parameters were statistically different (P < 0.05) based on the diet fed and variance seen between trials.

Conclusion:  In conclusion, a DFAP has been developed and has been shown to be capable of sustaining life in piglets up to 16 days of age.
Immunohistochemical expression of 14‐3‐3 sigma protein in human urological and gynecological tumors using a multi‐tumor microarray analysis
Authors: Mhawech Paulette , Greloz Vincent , Assaly Mounia , Herrmann Francois
Published: February 2005

14‐3‐3 σ is an exclusive epithelial marker and data on its expression in different malignancies are very scarce. The aims of the present study are to screen its expression in the most common neoplasms occurring in the urological and gynecological tract and to evaluate its use as a diagnostic marker. A tissue microarray was constructed using 350 samples from 13 different neoplasms. Immunohistochemical analysis using a polyclonal 14‐3‐3 σ antibody was performed. Overall, this protein was positive in 141 and negative in 209 tumors. The most frequent expression was seen in squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix and urothelial bladder carcinoma, followed by prostatic and endometrial adenocarcinoma. 14‐3‐3 σ was able to distinguish prostate adenocarcinoma from urothelial bladder carcinoma, with an odds ratio of 0.028 (P = 0.001; 95% CI, 0.0003–0.222), and distinguish seminoma from embryonal carcinoma of the testis, with an odds ratio of 0.061 (P = 0.009; 95% CI, 0.007–0.5014). It also has a good value in differentiating renal clear cell carcinoma from papillary carcinoma, with an odds ratio 0.470 (P < 0.001; 95% CI, 0.008–0.261). 14‐3‐3 σ seems to have good potential use as an epithelial marker, after confirmation with further targeted studies. Finally, as with all immunohistochemical markers, we can optimize the utility of this protein to distinguish tumor mimics by including it in an appropriate immunohistochemical panel.
Establishment and characterization of a KIT‐positive and stem cell factor‐producing cell line, KTHOS, derived from human osteosarcoma
Authors: Hitora Toshiaki , Yamamoto Tetsuji , Akisue Toshihiro , Marui Takashi , Nakatani Tetsuya , Kawamoto Teruya , Nagira Keiko , Yoshiya Shinichi , Kurosaka Masahiro
Published: February 2005

Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor that commonly affects adolescents and young adults. In the present study a human osteosarcoma cell line, KTHOS, was established from a primary osteosarcoma lesion in the distal femur of a 16‐year‐old girl. After 106 passages, the KTHOS cell line retained the biological characteristics of osteosarcoma. The KTHOS cells had spindle to pleomorphic cytoplasm with round to ovoid nuclei containing multiple prominent nucleoli, as expected based on the mesodermic origin of osteoblasts. The KTHOS cells were immunoreactive for osteocalcin, osteonectin, stem cell factor (SCF), and KIT (CD117). Reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction indicated that the KTHOS cell line expressed mRNA for SCF and KIT. The KTHOS cells produced relatively high amounts of soluble SCF as determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The results suggest that cell proliferation of the KTHOS cell line might be involved in autocrine and/or paracrine loops of the SCF/KIT signaling system. The KTHOS cell line is a novel human osteosarcoma cell line that releases SCF and expresses KIT. This cell line can be used for studies to explore the mechanisms for oncogenesis of human osteosarcomas.
Her2V655 genotype and breast cancer progression in Korean women
Authors: An Hee Jung , Kim Nam Keun , Oh Doyeun , Kim Sae Hyun , Park Min Jung , Jung Moon Young , Kang Haeyoun , Kim Seung Gi , Lee Kyung Po , Lee Kyung Sik
Published: February 2005

The amplification and overexpression of Her2 proto‐oncogene have been found to be associated with the development and progression of human breast cancer. A polymorphic valine allele at codon 655 of the Her2 gene (Her2V655) was suggested by some authors to be a susceptible genetic factor for the development of breast cancer. The Her2 polymorphism at codon 655 was investigated in 304 Korean women including 177 patients with breast cancer. The association between Her2 genotype and Her2 protein overexpression was also examined in breast cancers by immunohistochemistry. Her2V655 was not associated with a significant breast cancer risk (odds ratio (OR), 1.792; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.459–6.991). The frequency of homozygous or heterozygous valine allele increased in stage 2 patients (OR, 1.67; 95% CI, 0.67–4.19), and patients in stages 3 and 4 (OR, 3.36; 95% CI, 0.85–13.42) compared to patients in stage 0. However, an association between the presence of the valine allele and the overexpression of Her2 protein could not be demonstrated. These results suggest that Her2 polymorphism at codon 655 is not associated with the development of breast cancer in Korean women. However, there is a possibility that the valine allele at codon 655 might be related to increased risk of breast cancer progression.
Podoplanin as a marker for mesothelioma
Authors: Kimura Noriko , Kimura Itaru
Published: February 2005

Podoplanin is a specific marker for lymph vessel endothelial cells. It was noted that podoplanin is expressed in reactive mesothelial cells. The utility of podoplanin for the histological diagnosis of tumors was then investigated, especially for mesothelioma. Immunohistochemical study of podoplanin was carried out in five malignant mesotheliomas and 118 other tumors including 93 adenocarcinomas, four squamous cell carcinomas, six gastrointestinal stromal tumors and five endocrine tumors. Immunoreactivity for podoplanin was demonstrated on the cell membrane of tumor cells for all mesotheliomas. All other tumors were negative for podoplanin. Among the many antibodies used for differential diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, podoplanin has the potential to be an excellent tumor marker in both specificity and sensitivity. The utility of podoplanin as a marker for mesothelioma will be confirmed by further studies.
Distinct expression patterns of claudin‐1 and claudin‐4 in intraductal papillary–mucinous tumors of the pancreas
Authors: Tsukahara Munetoshi , Nagai Hideo , Kamiakito Tomoko , Kawata Hirotoshi , Takayashiki Norio , Saito Ken , Tanaka Akira
Published: February 2005

The expression of claudin‐4 was investigated in human pancreas, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, and intraductal papillary–mucinous tumors of the pancreas (IPMT), and compared with that of claudin‐1. In human adult pancreatic specimens, both claudin‐1 and claudin‐4 were immunohistochemically found in main and branching pancreatic ducts, terminal ductules and acinic cells, with the exception of endocrine cells. Of 12 cases of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, 11 (92%) had positive immunostaining for claudin‐4, and seven (58%) for claudin‐1. In 44 lesions of 22 cases of IPMT, including six hyperplastic foci distant from the main lesions, clauidin‐1 was positive in three out of six (50%) hyperplastic foci, 14 out of 17 (82%) adenomas, three out of 10 (30%) borderline tumors, two out of six (33%) non‐invasive carcinomas, and one out of five (20%) invasive carcinomas, producing a statistically negative correlation with histological tumor grades. In contrast, claudin‐4 was negative in the six hyperplastic foci, and positive in four out of the 17 (24%) adenomas, five out of the 10 (50%) borderline tumors, five out of the six (83%) non‐invasive carcinomas, and four out of the five (80%) invasive carcinomas, producing a statistically positive correlation with histological tumor grades. On study of IPMT subtypes, claudin‐1 was positive in nine out of 10 (90%) clear‐cell types, seven out of 20 (35%) dark‐cell types, and four out of eight (50%) compact‐cell types. In contrast, claudin‐4 was positive in two out of the 10 (20%) clear‐cell types, 13 out of the 20 (65%) dark‐cell types, and three out of the eight (38%) compact‐cell types. These distinct expression patterns of claudin‐1 and claudin‐4 suggest that both claudins serve as useful molecular markers for the tumor classification of IPMT.
Mutual Influence of Marital Conflict and Children's Behavior Problems: Shared and Nonshared Family Risks
Authors: Jenkins Jennifer , Simpson Anna , Dunn Judy , Rasbash Jon , O'Connor Thomas G.
Published: February 2005

This within‐family, longitudinal study including biological and stepfamilies investigated mutual influences between marital conflict and children's behavior problems. Children (4 to 17 years; N=296) residing in 127 families drawn from a general population study were investigated at Time 1 and again 2 years later. These nested data were analyzed using multilevel modeling, controlling for previous child behavior or marital conflict. Marital conflict about children predicted change in children's behavior. Children's behavior also predicted an increase in marital conflict, particularly in stepfamilies. Differences between siblings in exposure to conflict and the extent to which siblings were a source of argument increased more in stepfamilies than in biological families. Boys were exposed to more conflict over time than were girls.
Reconceptualizing Children's Suggestibility: Bidirectional and Temporal Properties
Authors: Gilstrap Livia L. , Ceci Stephen J.
Published: February 2005

Forty‐one children (3 to 7 years) were exposed to a staged event and later interviewed by 1 of 41 professional interviewers. All interviews were coded with a detailed, mutually exclusive, and exhaustive coding scheme capturing adult behaviors (leading questions vs. neutral) and child behaviors (acquiescence vs. denial) in a temporally organized manner. Overall, interviewers' use of leading questions did not result in increased acquiescence as previously found. However, one specific type of leading question (i.e., inaccurate misleading) was followed by acquiescence. Lagged sequential analyses showed that it was possible to predict directly from child‐to‐child behavior, effectively skipping the intervening adult behavior. This result raises questions about the current conceptualization that suggestibility is driven by adult behaviors.
Maternal Nonstandard Work Schedules and Child Cognitive Outcomes
Authors: Han Wen‐Jui
Published: February 2005

This paper examined associations between mothers' work schedules and children's cognitive outcomes in the first 3 years of life for approximately 900 children from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care. Both the timing and duration of maternal nonstandard work schedules were examined. Although results varied across developmental stages and dimensions of cognitive performance, the effects of mothers working nonstandard schedules tended to be negative, particularly if these schedules began in the 1st year of life, and particularly for measures of cognitive development at 24 months and expressive language at 36 months. Descriptive statistics suggested that these negative effects might be due to the type of child care used. Avenues for future research are discussed.
Human Newborns Prefer Human Milk: Conspecific Milk Odor Is Attractive Without Postnatal Exposure
Authors: Marlier Luc , Schaal Benoist
Published: February 2005

Behavioral responses of 3‐ to 4‐day‐old newborns to the odors of various human milk (HM) and formula milk (FM) were examined in paired‐choice tests. When both stimuli were nonfamiliar, breast‐fed, as well as bottle‐fed, infants oriented their head and mouthed more vigorously to HM than to FM. When breast‐fed infants were exposed to nonfamiliar HM along with the familiar FM, their head‐turning responses were undifferentiated although they mouthed more frequently to the human stimulus. When nonfamiliar HM and familiar FM were equalized in intensity, nonfamiliar HM again elicited more head orientation and mouthing responses. These results demonstrate that the odor of HM is more attractive to human newborns than FM and that this preference is independent of postnatal feeding experience.
Face Processing in Infancy: Developmental Changes in the Use of Different Kinds of Relational Information
Authors: Bhatt Ramesh S. , Bertin Evelin , Hayden Angela , Reed Andrea
Published: February 2005

Adults use both first‐order, or categorical, relations among features (e.g., the nose is above the mouth), and second‐order, or fine spatial relations (e.g., the space between eyes), to process faces. Adults' expertise in face processing is thought to be based on the use of second‐order relations. In the current study, 5‐month‐olds detected second‐order changes, but 3‐month‐olds failed to detect second‐order changes induced by 2 different manipulations. Three‐month‐olds did detect first‐order changes, however. Also, inversion affected 5‐month‐olds' processing of second‐order but not first‐order information. These results suggest that, although sensitivity to first‐order relations is available by 3 months or earlier, sensitivity to second‐order information may not develop until sometime between 3 and 5 months of age.
Social Functioning and Adjustment in Chinese Children: The Imprint of Historical Time
Authors: Chen Xinyin , Cen Guozhen , Li Dan , He Yunfeng
Published: February 2005

This study examined, in 3 cohorts (1990, 1998, and 2002) of elementary school children (M age=10 years), relations between social functioning and adjustment in different phases of the societal transition in China. Data were obtained from multiple sources. The results indicate that sociability‐cooperation was associated with peer acceptance and teacher‐rated competence, whereas aggression was associated with social and school difficulties in all 3 cohorts. The effect of different social contexts was reflected mainly in the relations between shyness‐sensitivity and adjustment. Whereas shyness was associated with social and academic achievement in the 1990 cohort, the associations became weaker or nonsignificant in the 1998 cohort. Furthermore, shyness was associated with peer rejection, school problems, and depression in the 2002 cohort.
Anxious Solitude Across Contexts: Girls' Interactions With Familiar and Unfamiliar Peers
Authors: Gazelle Heidi , Putallaz Martha , Li Yan , Grimes Christina L. , Kupersmidt Janis B. , Coie John D.
Published: February 2005

Cross‐situational continuity and change in anxious solitary girls' behavior and peer relations were examined in interactions with familiar versus unfamiliar playmates. Fourth‐grade girls (N=209, M age=9.77 years, half African American, half European American) were identified as anxious solitary or behaviorally normative using observed and teacher‐reported behavior among classmates. Subsequently, girls participated in 1‐hr play groups containing 5 same‐race familiar or unfamiliar girls for 5 consecutive days. Results support both cross‐situational continuity and change in anxious solitary girls' behavior and peer relations. Although anxious solitary girls exhibited difficulty interacting with both familiar and unfamiliar playmates relative to behaviorally normative girls, elements of their behavior improved in unfamiliar play groups, a context in which they received less peer mistreatment.
Attention in Preschoolers: Associations With Effortful Control and Motivation
Authors: Chang Florence , Burns Barbara M.
Published: February 2005

The current study examined how individual differences in children's temperament and motivation relate to attention skills in children from economically disadvantaged families. A total of 73 mother–child dyads participated in this study. Children were between the ages of 3 and 5, and all attended a Head Start program. Using multiple hierarchical regression analyses, the hypotheses that effortful control (an aspect of temperament) and motivation would individually and collectively relate to attention skills were supported. The current study supports the importance of understanding attention as a multifaceted concept (Posner & Petersen, 1990) that relates to cognitive, socioemotional, and motivational systems. The utility of applying a systems approach to school readiness issues in children of poverty is discussed.
Prenatal Hormones and Postnatal Socialization by Parents as Determinants of Male‐Typical Toy Play in Girls With Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Pasterski Vickie L. , Geffner Mitchell E. , Brain Caroline , Hindmarsh Peter , Brook Charles , Hines Melissa
Published: February 2005

Toy choices of 3‐ to 10‐year‐old children with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and of their unaffected siblings were assessed. Also assessed was parental encouragement of sex‐typed toy play. Girls with CAH displayed more male‐typical toy choices than did their unaffected sisters, whereas boys with and without CAH did not differ. Mothers and fathers encouraged sex‐typical toy play in children with and without CAH. However, girls with CAH received more positive feedback for play with girls' toys than did unaffected girls. Data show that increased male‐typical toy play by girls with CAH cannot be explained by parental encouragement of male‐typical toy play. Although parents encourage sex‐appropriate behavior, their encouragement appears to be insufficient to override the interest of girls with CAH in cross‐sexed toys.
When Less Is More: How Infants Learn to Form an Abstract Categorical Representation of Support
Authors: Casasola Marianella
Published: February 2005

Two experiments explored how infants learn to form an abstract categorical representation of support (i.e., on) when habituated to few (i.e., 2) or many (i.e., 6) examples of the relation. When habituated to 2 pairs of objects in a support relation, 14‐month‐olds, but not 10‐month‐olds, formed the abstract spatial category (i.e., generalized the relation to novel objects). When habituated to 6 object pairs in a support relation, infants did not attend to the relation. The results indicate that infants learn to form an abstract spatial category of support between 10 and 14 months and that having fewer object pairs depicting this relation facilitates their acquisition of the abstract categorical representation.