bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
[Ca2+]i rise at in vitro maturation in bovine cumulus–oocyte complexes
Authors: Silvestre Francesco , Fissore Rafael A. , Tosti Elisabetta , Boni Raffaele
Published: March 2012

An intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) rise has been described in cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) following luteinizing hormone (LH) exposure. Together with cAMP, Ca2+ is a candidate signal for resumption of meiosis. Here, we analyzed if the most common hormones involved in oocyte maturation can induce the same Ca2+ signal. In addition, we characterized the source of this signal. Immature, in vitro‐matured, and roscovitine‐meiotically arrested COCs were loaded with Fluo‐4 AM, stimulated with hormones/growth factors, and tested for [Ca2+]i variations in cumulus cells. Reagents known to inhibit or stimulate [Ca2+]i rises were used to characterize these [Ca2+]i dynamics. Finally, expression of LH receptors (LHRs) in COCs was analyzed by immunofluorescence. In immature COCs, follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH) elicited a single [Ca2+]i rise that was higher than those induced by LH and growth hormone (GH), whereas epithelial growth factor failed to induce any changes in [Ca2+]i. The [Ca2+]i rise induced by FSH was higher in immature COCs; was reduced in roscovitine‐arrested, immature COCs; and was negligible in gonadotropin‐induced, in vitro‐matured COCs. In the case of spontaneous‐ and GH‐matured COCs, however, FSH stimulation caused a lower [Ca2+]i rise. The hormone‐induced [Ca2+]i rise was due to: (i) external Ca2+ entry; (ii) intercellular communication; and (iii) intracellular Ca2+ stores. Immunofluorescence revealed that LHRs were expressed throughout the cumulus cells. The above results show that: (i) gonadotropins and GH cause a [Ca2+]i rise in cumulus cells; (ii) this [Ca2+]i rise results from extra‐, inter‐, and intra‐cellular cumulative Ca2+ fluxes; and (iii) LHRs are distributed on either outer or inner cumulus cells. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 79:369–379, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The effects of school poverty on adolescents' sexual health knowledge
Authors: Atkins Robert , Sulik Michael J. , Hart Daniel , Ayres Cynthia , Read Nichole
Published: March 2012

Using National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health data, hierarchical linear modeling was conducted to estimate the association of school poverty concentration to the sexual health knowledge of 6,718 adolescents. Controlling for individual socio‐economic status, school poverty had modest negative effects on sexual health knowledge. Although not directly associated with sexual health knowledge, after controlling for demographic characteristics, school poverty interactions showed that sexual health knowledge was associated with higher grade point average (GPA) and age. The combination of low GPA and high‐levels of school poverty was especially detrimental for students' sexual health knowledge. There are differences in the sexual health knowledge of adolescents attending low poverty and high poverty schools that can be attributed to the school environment. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 35:231–241, 2012
Coordinated expression of REG4 and aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 regulating tumourigenic capacity of diffuse‐type gastric carcinoma‐initiating cells is inhibited by TGF‐β
Authors: Katsuno Yoko , Ehata Shogo , Yashiro Masakazu , Yanagihara Kazuyoshi , Hirakawa Kosei , Miyazono Kohei
Published: March 2012

Aldehyde dehydrogenase 1 (ALDH1) has been shown to serve as a marker for cancer‐initiating cells (CICs), but little is known about the regulation of the CIC functions of ALDH1+ cancer cells. We isolated ALDH1+ cells from human diffuse‐type gastric carcinoma cells and characterized these cells using an Aldefluor assay. ALDH1+ cells constituted 5–8% of the human diffuse‐type gastric carcinoma cells, OCUM‐2MLN and HSC‐39; were more tumourigenic than ALDH1− cells; and were able to self‐renew and generate heterogeneous cell populations. Using gene expression microarray analyses, we identified REG4 (regenerating islet‐derived family, member 4) as one of the genes up‐regulated in ALDH1+ cells, and thus as a novel marker for ALDH1+ tumour cells. Induced expression of REG4 enhanced the colony‐forming ability of OCUM‐2MLN cells, while knockdown of REG4 inhibited the tumourigenic potential of ALDH1+ cells. We further found that TGF‐β signalling reduces the expression of ALDH1 and REG4, and the size of the ALDH1+ cell population. In human diffuse‐type gastric carcinoma tissues, the expression of ALDH1 and REG4 correlated with each other, as assessed by immunohistochemistry, and ALDH1 expression correlated inversely with Smad3 phosphorylation as a measure of TGF‐β signalling. These findings illustrate that, in diffuse‐type gastric carcinoma, REG4 is up‐regulated in ALDH1+ CICs, and that the increased tumourigenic ability of ALDH1+ cells depends on REG4. Moreover, TGF‐β down‐regulates ALDH1 and REG4 expression, which correlates with a reduction in CIC population size and tumourigenicity. Targeting REG4 in ALDH1+ CICs may provide a novel strategy in the treatment of diffuse‐type gastric carcinoma. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tissue‐based proteomics reveals FXYD3, S100A11 and GSTM3 as novel markers for regional lymph node metastasis in colon cancer
Authors: Meding Stephan , Balluff Benjamin , Elsner Mareike , Schöne Cédrik , Rauser Sandra , Nitsche Ulrich , Maak Matthias , Schäfer Alexander , Hauck Stefanie M , Ueffing Marius , Langer Rupert , Höfler Heinz , Friess Helmut , Rosenberg Robert , Walch Axel
Published: March 2012

Regional lymph node metastasis negatively affects prognosis in colon cancer patients. The molecular processes leading to regional lymph node metastasis are only partially understood and proteomic markers for metastasis are still scarce. Therefore, a tissue‐based proteomic approach was undertaken for identifying proteins associated with regional lymph node metastasis. Two complementary tissue‐based proteomic methods have been employed. MALDI imaging was used for identifying small proteins (≤25 kDa) in situ and label‐free quantitative proteomics was used for identifying larger proteins. A tissue cohort comprising primary colon tumours without metastasis (UICC II, pN0, n = 21) and with lymph node metastasis (UICC III, pN2, n = 33) was analysed. Subsequent validation of identified proteins was done by immunohistochemical staining on an independent tissue cohort consisting of primary colon tumour specimens (n = 168). MALDI imaging yielded ten discriminating m/z species, and label‐free quantitative proteomics 28 proteins. Two MALDI imaging‐derived candidate proteins (FXYD3 and S100A11) and one from the label‐free quantitative proteomics (GSTM3) were validated on the independent tissue cohort. All three markers correlated significantly with regional lymph node metastasis: FXYD3 (p = 0.0110), S100A11 (p = 0.0071), and GSTM3 (p = 0.0173). FXYD3 and S100A11 were more highly expressed in UICC II patient tumour tissues. GSTM3 was more highly expressed in UICC III patient tumour tissues. By our tissue‐based proteomic approach, we could identify a large panel of proteins which are associated with regional lymph node metastasis and which have not been described so far. Here we show that novel markers for regional lymph metastasis can be identified by MALDI imaging or label‐free quantitative proteomics and subsequently validated on an independent tissue cohort. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic identification and functional validation of FcγRIV as key molecule in autoantibody‐induced tissue injury
Authors: Kasperkiewicz Michael , Nimmerjahn Falk , Wende Sabina , Hirose Misa , Iwata Hiroaki , Jonkman Marcel F , Samavedam Unni , Gupta Yask , Möller Steffen , Rentz Ellen , Hellberg Lars , Kalies Kathrin , Yu Xinhua , Schmidt Enno , Häsler Robert , Laskay Tamás , Westermann Jürgen , Köhl Jörg , Zillikens Detlef , Ludwig Ralf J
Published: March 2012

Autoantibody‐mediated diseases are clinically heterogeneous and often fail conventional therapeutic strategies. Gene expression profiling has helped to identify new molecular pathways in these diseases, although their potential as treatment targets largely remains to be functionally validated. Based on weighted gene co‐expression network analysis, we determined the transcriptional network in experimental epidermolysis bullosa acquisita (EBA), a paradigm of an antibody‐mediated organ‐specific autoimmune disease characterized by autoantibodies directed against type VII collagen. We identified 33 distinct and differentially expressed modules, including Fcγ receptor (FcγR) IV and components of the neutrophil‐associated enzyme system in autoantibody transfer‐induced EBA. Validation experiments, including functional analysis, demonstrated that FcγRIV expression on neutrophils crucially contributes to autoantibody‐induced tissue injury in the transfer model of EBA. Mice lacking the common γ‐chain of activating FcγRs, deficient in FcγRIV or treated with FcγRIV function blocking antibody, but not mice deficient in FcγRI, FcγRIIB, FcγRIII or both FcγRI and FcγRIII, were effectively protected from EBA. Skin disease was restored in γ‐chain‐deficient mice locally reconstituted with neutrophils from wild‐type, but not from γ‐chain‐deficient, mice. Our findings both genetically and functionally identify a novel disease‐related molecule, FcγRIV, in an autoantibody‐mediated disorder, which may be of importance for the development of novel targeted therapies. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
TGFBR2 but not SPP1 genotype modulates osteopontin expression in Duchenne muscular dystrophy muscle
Authors: Piva Luisa , Gavassini Bruno F , Bello Luca , Fanin Marina , Soraru Gianni , Barp Andrea , Ermani Mario , Angelini Corrado , Hoffman Eric P , Pegoraro Elena
Published: March 2012

A polymorphism (rs28357094) in the promoter region of the SPP1 gene coding for osteopontin (OPN) is a strong determinant of disease severity in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The rare G allele of rs28357094 alters gene promoter function and reduces mRNA expression in transfected HeLa cells. To dissect the molecular mechanisms of increased disease severity associated with the G allele, we characterized SPP1 mRNA and protein in DMD muscle biopsies of patients with defined rs28357094 genotype. We did not find significant differences in osteopontin mRNA or protein expression between patients carrying the T (ancestral allele) or TG/GG genotypes at rs28357094. The G allele was significantly associated with reduced CD4+ and CD68+ cells on patient muscle biopsy. We also quantified transforming growth factor‐β (TGFB) and TGFB receptor‐2 (TGFBR2) mRNA in DMD muscle biopsies, given the ability of TGFB and TGFBR2 to activate SPP1 promoter region and their role in DMD pathogenesis. The amount of TGFB and TGFBR2 mRNA did not predict the amount of SPP1 mRNA or protein, while a polymorphism in the TGFBR2 gene (rs4522809) was found to be a strong predictor of SPP1 mRNA level. Our findings suggest that OPN mediates inflammatory changes in DMD and that TGFB signalling has a role in the complex regulation of osteopontin expression. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical castration and anti‐androgens induce differential gene expression in prostate cancer
Authors: Lehmusvaara Saara , Erkkilä Timo , Urbanucci Alfonso , Waltering Kati , Seppälä Janne , Larjo Antti , Tuominen Vilppu J , Isola Jorma , Kujala Paula , Lähdesmäki Harri , Kaipia Antti , Tammela Teuvo LJ , Visakorpi Tapio
Published: March 2012

Endocrine therapy by castration or anti‐androgens is the gold standard treatment for advanced prostate cancer. Although it has been used for decades, the molecular consequences of androgen deprivation are incompletely known and biomarkers of its resistance are lacking. In this study, we studied the molecular mechanisms of hormonal therapy by comparing the effect of bicalutamide (anti‐androgen), goserelin (GnRH agonist) and no therapy, followed by radical prostatectomy. For this purpose, 28 men were randomly assigned to treatment groups. Freshly frozen specimens were used for gene expression profiling for all known protein‐coding genes. An in silico Bayesian modelling tool was used to assess cancer‐specific gene expression from heterogeneous tissue specimens. The expression of 128 genes was > two‐fold reduced by the treatments. Only 16% of the altered genes were common in both treatment groups. Of the 128 genes, only 24 were directly androgen‐regulated genes, according to re‐analysis of previous data on gene expression, androgen receptor‐binding sites and histone modifications in prostate cancer cell line models. The tumours containing TMPRSS2–ERG fusion showed higher gene expression of genes related to proliferation compared to the fusion‐negative tumours in untreated cases. Interestingly, endocrine therapy reduced the expression of one‐half of these genes and thus diminished the differences between the fusion‐positive and ‐negative samples. This study reports the significantly different effects of an anti‐androgen and a GnRH agonist on gene expression in prostate cancer cells. TMPRSS2‐ERG fusion seems to bring many proliferation‐related genes under androgen regulation. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abdominal aortic calcification in young adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Results from the St. Jude Lifetime Cohort study
Authors: Gurney James G. , Ojha Rohit P. , Ness Kirsten K. , Huang Sujuan , Sharma Shelly , Robison Leslie L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Kaste Sue C.
Published: March 2012

Abdominal aortic calcification (AAC), metabolic syndrome, and low bone mineral density (BMD) are risk factors for atherosclerotic disease and cardiovascular morbidity. We evaluated AAC in 662 adult survivors of childhood ALL (median age 31 years). AAC was present in 10% of subjects, metabolic syndrome in 36%, and low BMD in 29%. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) for AAC among women with metabolic syndrome was 2.3 (95% CL = 1.0, 4.3). The adjusted OR for AAC in men with low BMD was 3.1 (95% CL = 1.3, 7.3). A substantial proportion of adult survivors of childhood ALL have AAC and/or metabolic syndrome, suggestive of early atherosclerotic disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 1307–1309. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Quantitative description of the morphology and ossification center in the axial skeleton of 20‐week gestation formalin‐fixed human fetuses using magnetic resonance images
Authors: Chabert Steren , Villalobos Manuel , Ulloa Patricia , Salas Rodrigo , Tejos Cristian , San Martin Sebastian , Pereda Jaime
Published: March 2012

Objectives

Human tissues are usually studied using a series of two‐dimensional visualizations of in vivo or cutout specimens. However, there is no precise anatomical description of some of the processes of human fetal development. The purpose of our study is to develop a quantitative description of the normal axial skeleton by means of high‐resolution three‐dimensional magnetic resonance (MR) images, collected from six normal 20‐week‐old human fetuses fixed in formaldehyde.

Methods

Fetuses were collected after spontaneous abortion and subsequently fixed with formalin. They were imaged using a 1.5 T MR scanner with an isotropic spatial resolution of 200 µm. The correct tissue discrimination between ossified and cartilaginous bones was confirmed by comparing the images achieved by MR scans and computerized axial tomographies. The vertebral column was segmented out from each image using a specially developed semi‐automatic algorithm.

Results

Vertebral body dimensions and inter‐vertebral distances were larger in the lumbar region, in agreement with the beginning of the ossification process from the thoracolumbar region toward the sacral and cephalic ends.

Conclusion

In this article, we demonstrate the feasibility of using MR images to study the ossification process in formalin‐fixed fetal tissues. A quantitative description of the ossification centers of vertebral bodies and arches is presented. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Body stalk anomaly: adverse maternal outcomes in a series of 21 cases
Authors: Costa Maria Laura Botelho , Couto Egle , Furlan Erica , Zaccaria Renata , Andrade Kleber , Barini Ricardo , Nomura Marcelo Luís
Published: March 2012

Objective

To evaluate the demographic characteristics of cases with body stalk anomaly (BSA) and describe the obstetric outcome.

Method

Retrospective review of a case series of BSA diagnosed from 2000 to 2010.

Results

Among the 21 cases, mean gestational age at diagnosis was 22 weeks (range 11–35 weeks). Ten cases elected termination of pregnancy, which was performed at a median gestational age of 24 weeks. One termination of pregnancy at 33 weeks' gestation in a woman with late diagnosis of BSA and a previous uterine scar, required cesarean section during labor because of clinical signs of uterine rupture. Of the remaining 11 cases, four were lost to follow‐up, three delivered vaginally, three underwent elective cesarean sections, and one underwent cesarean section because of obstructed labor. Six of seven cases were growth restricted and six of seven were small for gestational age. There were no abnormal karyotypes among the nine cases which underwent cytogenetic studies.

Conclusion

Continuation of pregnancy in the presence of BSA is associated with greater maternal risks, in the form of labor complications requiring cesarean section. This information should be discussed with couples at the time of diagnosis. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcome in fetuses with isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia with increased nuchal translucency thickness in first trimester
Authors: Spaggiari E. , Stirnemann J. , Ville Y.
Published: March 2012

Objective

To examine the possible association between increased nuchal translucency (NT) thickness in the first trimester and perinatal outcome in isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study between January 2004 and June 2010. The database was searched to identify all consecutive cases of CDH referred to the fetal medicine center of Necker Hospital in Paris. Enlarged NT was defined above the 95th centile. Only children born alive with an isolated CDH were selected for the analysis of prognostic factors. We also studied the correlation between NT thickness in the first trimester and lung‐to‐head ratio, observed to expected lung area‐to‐head ratio, lung volume estimated by magnetic resonance imaging, and other prenatal features of intrathoracic compression.

Results

Seventy‐one cases of isolated CDH were available. The fetal NT was above the 95th centile in 9 of the 71 cases. Neonatal death occurred in 7/9 (78%) cases with enlarged NT, compared with 24/62 (38%) with normal NT (P = 0.035). Enlarged NT was significantly associated with prenatal features of intrathoracic compression.

Conclusion

Enlarged NT thickness in CDH is associated with a poor outcome and is related to an early intrathoracic compression. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification of novel candidate maternal serum protein markers for Down syndrome by integrated proteomic and bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Kang Yuan , Dong Xinran , Zhou Qiongjie , Zhang Ying , Cheng Yan , Hu Rong , Su Cuihong , Jin Hong , Liu Xiaohui , Ma Duan , Tian Weidong , Li Xiaotian
Published: March 2012

Objective

This study aimed to identify candidate protein biomarkers from maternal serum for Down syndrome (DS) by integrated proteomic and bioinformatics analysis.

Methods

A pregnancy DS group of 18 women and a control group with the same number were prepared, and the maternal serum proteins were analyzed by isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation and mass spectrometry, to identify DS differentially expressed maternal serum proteins (DS‐DEMSPs). Comprehensive bioinformatics analysis was then employed to analyze DS‐DEMSPs both in this paper and seven related publications.

Results

Down syndrome differentially expressed maternal serum proteins from different studies are significantly enriched with common Gene Ontology functions, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, transcription factor binding sites, and Pfam protein domains, However, the DS‐DEMSPs are less functionally related to known DS‐related genes. These evidences suggest that common molecular mechanisms induced by secondary effects may be present upon DS carrying. A simple scoring scheme revealed Alpha‐2‐macroglobulin, Apolipoprotein A1, Apolipoprotein E, Complement C1s subcomponent, Complement component 5, Complement component 8, alpha polypeptide, Complement component 8, beta polypeptide and Fibronectin as potential DS biomarkers.

Conclusion

The integration of proteomics and bioinformatics studies provides a novel approach to develop new prenatal screening methods for noninvasive yet accurate diagnosis of DS. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Psychosocial aspects of post‐treatment follow‐up for stage I/II melanoma: a systematic review of the literature
Authors: Rychetnik Lucie , McCaffery Kirsten , Morton Rachael , Irwig Les
Published: March 2012

Background

Patients treated for melanoma are advised to have lifelong full body skin examinations. Extended intervals between examinations have been proposed, but although this may be clinically effective, psychosocial aspects of follow‐up are not well understood. This systematic review summarised patient and clinician preferences, experiences and adherence with recommended follow‐up of stage I/II melanoma.

Methods

Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase, Cochrane Library, ACP Journal Club and NHS Economic Evaluation Database were searched from database inception to week 3 April 2010, to identify original studies of psychosocial outcomes of follow‐up after treatment of stage I/II primary cutaneous melanoma, as reported by patients or clinicians. The results were synthesised, and characteristics likely to maximise patients' well‐being and adherence to follow‐up schedules were proposed.

Results

We found 15 studies that met the inclusion criteria. Anxiety with melanoma follow‐up was common; patients valued reassurance, information and psychosocial support, but long‐term adherence to schedules was variable. Some wanted more emotional support from their clinician than was provided. Clinicians sometimes ordered additional blood and imaging tests to reassure patients. GPs were hesitant to conduct melanoma follow‐up, but a trial providing technical training and protocols reported positive outcomes. Both patients and GPs wanted prompt access to melanoma specialists when suspicious lesions were found.

Conclusion

Psychosocial aspects of follow‐up impact on patient well‐being and potential adherence to schedules, and may influence clinician practice. If follow‐up schedules or personnel are to be revised, psychosocial impacts on patients must be explicitly addressed, as well as guidance and specialist support for clinicians. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hyperoxia during one lung ventilation: Inflammatory and oxidative responses
Authors: Olivant Fisher Alicia , Husain Kamran , Wolfson Marla R. , Hubert Terrence L. , Rodriguez Elena , Shaffer Thomas H. , Theroux Mary C.
Published: March 2012

Background

It is common practice during one lung ventilation (OLV) to use 100% oxygen, although this may cause hyperoxia‐ and oxidative stress‐related lung injury. We hypothesized that lower oxygen (FiO2) during OLV will result in less inflammatory and oxidative lung injury and improved lung function.

Methods

Twenty pigs (8.88 ± 0.84 kg; 38 ± 4.6 days) were assigned to either the hyperoxia group (n = 10; FiO2 = 100%) or the normoxia group (n = 10; FiO2 < 50%). Both groups were subjected to 3 hr of OLV. Blood samples were tested for pro‐inflammatory cytokines and lung tissue was tested for these cytokines and oxidative biomarkers.

Results

There were no differences between groups for partial pressure of CO2, tidal volume, end‐tidal CO2, plasma cytokines, or respiratory compliance. Total respiratory resistance was greater in the hyperoxia group (P = 0.02). There were higher levels of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 in the lung homogenates of the hyperoxia group than in the normoxia group (P ≤ 0.01, 0.001, and 0.001, respectively). Myeloperoxidase and protein carbonyls (PC) were higher (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01, respectively) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) was lower in the lung homogenates of the hyperoxia group (P ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion

Higher myeloperoxidase, PC, and cytokine levels, and lower SOD availability indicate a greater degree of injury in the lungs of the hyperoxia animals, possibly from using 100% oxygen. In this translational study using a pig model, FiO2 ≤ 50% during OLV reduced hyperoxic injury and improved function in the lungs. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2012. 47:979–986. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cyanosis when head turned to left in an infant with primary ciliary dyskinesia
Authors: Vermeulen Bas , Haarman Eric , Rammeloo Lukas , Hruda Jaroslav
Published: March 2012

A 19‐month‐old boy with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), mirror‐image dextrocardia, situs inversus (SI) totalis suffered from persistent hypoxia. Cyanosis became clinically evident when the child turned the head to the left and resolved after turning the head to the right. Echocardiography demonstrated two superior caval veins; the left sided superior vena cava (SVC) entering the left sided right atrium (RA) and the right sided into the right sided left atrium (LA). Surgical redirection of the right sided caval vein into RA was performed. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:88–90. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Antibiotic treatment of children with community‐acquired pneumonia: Comparison of penicillin or ampicillin versus cefuroxime
Authors: Dinur‐Schejter Yael , Cohen‐Cymberknoh Malena , Tenenbaum Ariel , Brooks Rebecca , Averbuch Diana , Kharasch Sigmund , Kerem Eitan
Published: March 2012

Objective

Adherence to current guidelines for treatment of non‐complicated community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) in children, recommending penicillin or ampicillin as first‐line treatment, has been poor. Our objective was to examine whether cefuroxime confers an advantage over penicillin or ampicillin for the treatment of children hospitalized with non‐complicated CAP.

Patients and Methods

All children aged 3 months to 2 years with non‐complicated CAP treated with penicillin or ampicillin or cefuroxime, admitted during 2003–2008, in the Departments of Pediatrics, Hadassah University Medical Center were included. Presenting signs, symptoms, laboratory findings at presentation, clinical parameters including number of days with IV antibiotics, oxygen treatment, length of hospital stay, change of antibiotics, and clinical course 72 hr and 1 week after admission, were compared.

Results

Of the 319 children admitted for non‐complicated CAP, 66 were treated with IV penicillin or ampicillin, 253 with IV cefuroxime. Number of days of IV treatment, days of oxygen requirement, and days of hospitalization were similar (2.36 ± 1.6 days vs. 2.59 ± 1.6 days, 0.31 ± 1.2 days vs. 0.64 ± 1.3 days, and 2.67 ± 1.4 days vs. 2.96 ± 1.7 days, respectively). Treatment failure was not significantly different (7.6% vs. 4.7%). The number of patients who were febrile or required oxygen 72 hr after admission was similar (13.0% vs. 16.5% and 8.7% vs. 20.9%, respectively). One week after admission no difference between the two groups was seen.

Conclusions

In previously healthy children, parenteral penicillin or ampicillin for treatment of non‐complicated CAP in‐hospital is as effective as cefuroxime, and should remain the recommended first‐line therapy. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:52–58. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
IFN‐γ and IP‐10 in tracheal aspirates from premature infants: Relationship with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Aghai Zubair H. , Saslow Judy G. , Mody Kartik , Eydelman Riva , Bhat Vishwanath , Stahl Gary , Pyon Kee , Bhandari Vineet
Published: March 2012

Background

Interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) and interferon‐inducible protein of 10 kDa (IP‐10) are potent inflammatory mediators and contribute to acute lung injury in adults. Recently, a potential role for IFN‐γ and IP‐10 in the pathogenesis of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) has been reported in animal models.

Objective

To study the association between IFN‐γ and IP‐10 in tracheal aspirate (TA) and the development of BPD in premature infants.

Design/Methods

TA samples collected within 48 hr after birth from 79 mechanically ventilated premature neonates [gestational age (GA) <30 weeks (w), birth weight (BW) <1,250 g (g)] were analyzed. IFN‐γ was measured in a subgroup of 38 infants by using a biochip multi‐analyte immunoassay. The level of IP‐10 was determined using a commercially available ELISA kit. Total protein in TA was measured by Bradford assay to correct for sampling related dilution. BPD was defined as the need of supplemental oxygen at 36 weeks postmenstrual age (PMA).

Results

Twenty infants (GA 26.4 ± 1.9w, BW 860 ± 201 g) survived without BPD at 36 weeks PMA and 59 infants (GA 25.5 ± 1.5w, BW 751 ± 163 g) died before 36 weeks PMA or developed BPD. The mean IFN‐γ level was higher in infants who died or developed BPD (9.7 ± 2.8 vs. 3.1 ± 1.1 pg/ml, P = 0.03). Similarly, the mean IP‐10 level was higher in infants who died or developed BPD (63.4 ± 17.5 pg/ml) compared to those who survived without BPD (18.5 ± 7.5 pg/ml, P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Higher IFN‐γ and IP‐10 levels in TA samples are associated with the development of BPD or death in premature infants. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2013; 48:8–13. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of Temperature on Release of Eugenol and Isoeugenol from Soy Protein Isolate Films into Simulated Fatty Food
Authors: Chen Mo , Wang Zhi‐Wei , Hu Chang‐Ying , Wang Jin‐Ling
Published: March 2012

Soy protein isolate (SPI)–based cast films were incorporated with eugenol and isoeugenol. The release of eugenol and isoeugenol from the SPI films into simulated fatty food (olive oil) at 5°C, 20°C, 40°C and 60°C was determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to investigate the effect of temperature on the said release. The partition coefficients decreased linearly with temperature in the range of 5°C–60°C. Diffusion coefficients of eugenol and isoeugenol in the SPI films were determined by fitting the model to the experimental data. The linear relationship between the logarithm of the diffusion coefficient and temperature indicated that the release of eugenol and isoeugenol from SPI films into olive oil followed the Arrhenius equation. The comparison of release of eugenol and isoeugenol between the prediction and the experiment at 30°C was made, and a good agreement was obtained. The activation energies for the release of eugenol and isoeugenol were 52.4 and 53.9 kJ/mol, respectively. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Direct Gravure Printing of Silicon Nanowires Using Entropic Attraction Forces
Authors: Seo Jungmok , Lee Hyonik , Lee Seulah , Lee Tae Il , Myoung Jae‐Min , Lee Taeyoon
Published: March 2012

The development of a method for large‐scale printing of nanowire (NW) arrays onto a desired substrate is crucial for fabricating high‐performance NW‐based electronics. Here, the alignment of highly ordered and dense silicon (Si) NW arrays at anisotropically etched micro‐engraved structures is demonstrated using a simple evaporation process. During evaporation, entropic attraction combined with the internal flow of the NW solution induced the alignment of NWs at the corners of pre‐defined structures, and the assembly characteristics of the NWs were highly dependent on the polarity of the NW solutions. After complete evaporation, the aligned NW arrays are subsequently transferred onto a flexible substrate with 95% selectivity using a direct gravure printing technique. As a proof‐of‐concept, flexible back‐gated NW field‐effect transistors (FETs) are fabricated. The fabricated FETs have an effective hole mobility of 17.1 cm2·V−1·s−1 and an on/off ratio of ∼2.6 × 105.
Topotaxial Fabrication of Vertical AuxAg1–x Nanowire Arrays: Plasmon‐Active in the Blue Region and Corrosion Resistant
Authors: Lee Hyoban , Yoo Youngdong , Kang Taejoon , In Juneho , Seo Min‐Kyo , Kim Bongsoo
Published: March 2012

Topotaxial growth of AuxAg1–x alloy nanowires (NWs) by postepitaxial deposition of Ag vapor on Au NWs and investigation of their plasmonic properties are reported. Ag vapor is supplied onto the epitaxially grown Au NWs, topotaxially turning them into AuxAg1–x alloy NWs. The original geometries and alignments of the Au nanostructures are well preserved, while the composition of the alloy NWs is controlled by varying the Ag vapor supply time. The Au0.5Ag0.5 NWs show high surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) activity comparable to that of Ag NWs as well as highly increased oxidation resistance. The plasmon‐active wavelength range of the Au0.5Ag0.5 NW is significantly extended to the blue region compared to Au NWs. The AuxAg1–x alloy NWs that have plasmonic activity in the blue region in addition to high corrosion resistance will make a superb material for practical plasmonic devices including SERS sensors and optical nanoantennas.
Capacity of distributed antenna network by using single‐carrier frequency domain adaptive antenna array
Authors: Peng Wei , Adachi Fumiyuki
Published: March 2012

Single‐carrier frequency domain adaptive antenna array (SC‐FDAAA) has been proposed and proved in our previous study to be effective in suppressing multiple access interference in a severely frequency selective fading channel. In this paper, we studied the performance of SC‐FDAAA in a distributed antenna network (DAN). To make it clear whether the performance of SC‐FDAAA can benefit from the distributed nature of DAN or not, we made a comparison between DAN and the traditional cellular network, that is, central antenna network. The bit error rate distribution and the system capacity (both link capacity and cellular link capacity) are presented. It is shown that by using the SC‐FDAAA, cellular link capacity is maximized by using single frequency reuse. In addition, the capacity of SC‐FDAAA can also benefit from the distributed nature of DAN. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Identification in closed‐loop operation of models for collective pitch robust controller design
Authors: Iribas‐Latour M. , Landau I‐D.
Published: March 2012

To achieve load reduction and power optimization, wind turbine controllers design requires the availability of reliable control‐oriented linear models. These are needed for model‐based controller design. Model identification of wind turbine while operating in closed loop is an appropriate solution that has recently shown its capabilities when linear time‐invariant controllers and complicated control structures are present. However, the collective pitch control loop, one of the most important wind turbine loops, uses non‐linear controllers. Typically, this non‐linear controller is a combination of a linear controller and a gain scheduling. This paper presents a new algorithm for identification in closed‐loop operation that allows the use of this kind of non‐linear controllers. The algorithm is applied for identification the collective pitch demand to generator speed of a wind turbine at various operating points. The obtained models are presented and discussed from a control point of view. The validity of these models is illustrated by their use for the design of a linear fix robust controller. The performance based on simulation data of this linear controller is similar to that obtained with simulations based on a linear controller with gain scheduling, but its design and implementation is much simpler. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of the unsteady aerodynamics of offshore floating wind turbines
Authors: Sebastian T. , Lackner M.A.
Published: March 2012

Large‐scale offshore floating wind turbines were first proposed in 1972 by Prof. William E. Heronemus at the University of Massachusetts. Since then, very little progress has been made in the deployment of these systems despite the significant advantages afforded by floating wind turbines, namely access to superior wind resources and increased placement flexibility. Aside from the large capital costs associated with construction, one of the most significant challenges facing offshore floating wind turbines is a limited simulation and load estimation capability. Many wind turbine aerodynamic analysis methods rely on assumptions that may not be applicable to the highly dynamic environment in which floating wind turbines are expected to operate. This study characterizes the unique operating conditions that make aerodynamic analysis of offshore floating wind turbines a challenge. Conditions that may result in unsteady flow are identified, and a method to identify aerodynamically relevant platform modes is presented. Operating conditions that may result in a breakdown of the momentum balance equations are also identified for different platform configurations. It is shown that offshore floating wind turbines are subjected to significant aerodynamic unsteadiness fixed‐bottom offshore turbines. Aerodynamic analysis of offshore floating wind turbines may require the use of higher‐fidelity ‘engineering‐level’ models than commonly in use today. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of K‐absorption extended X‐ray absorption fine structure data of some transition metals
Authors: Mishra A. , Parsai N. , Shrivastava B. D.
Published: March 2012

A simplified method of analysis of the extended X‐ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) data is presented. The experimental EXAFS data for cobalt, manganese, chromium, iron and zinc have been analyzed to illustrate the procedure. Theoretical EXAFS data have been generated using standard EXAFS equation employing MathCAD programming. The phase shift parameter has been computed from experimental spectra itself, the backscattering amplitude has been taken from the available theoretical tabulations and other parameters have been taken from crystallographic data. The theoretical EXAFS data agree well with the experimental data. Fourier transforms of both the experimental and theoretical data have been computed, and the two Fourier transforms agree well with each other in case of all the metals. The analysis yields bond length of the first coordination shell that agrees well with the crystallographic value in the metals under consideration. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Level VI Lymph Node Dissection Does Not Decrease Radioiodine Uptake in Patients Undergoing Radioiodine Ablation for Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Yoo Don , Ajmal Saad , Gowda Shilpa , Machan Jason , Monchik Jack , Mazzaglia Peter
Published: March 2012

Background

In patients with well‐differentiated thyroid cancer, the incidence of pathologic central compartment lymph node metastases is reported to be approximately 50%. Recently level VI lymph node dissection has been advocated as a means of reducing recurrence rates in these patients, even if there are no clinically apparent nodal metastases. This study investigates whether level VI lymph node dissection decreases the percent radioiodine uptake when patients undergo radioiodine ablation.

Methods

All thyroid cancer patients entered into the endocrine surgery database at a tertiary care center from 2006 to 2010 were reviewed. Those treated with radioactive iodine were analyzed with respect to performance of a central compartment lymph node dissection and the percent uptake of radioiodine (131I) on the preablation scan at 72 h.

Results

There were 277 patients with well‐differentiated thyroid cancer who underwent radioiodine ablation. In all, 75% were female, and the mean age was 47.7 years. A total of 87 patients underwent total thyroidectomy and level VI lymph node dissection (TT + LVIND). The mean number of level VI nodes resected was 6 (1–27), and 60.9% of patients had nodal metastases. Altogether, 190 had a total thyroidectomy (TT) only, and the median number of nodes resected was 0 (0–10). The percent uptake of radioiodine on the preablation scan was 0.93% in patients who had undergone TT + LVIND and 1.2% in those with TT alone (p = 0.17). The median number of radioactive foci noted within the thyroid bed was two in both groups (p = 0.64). The mean preablation thyroglobulin levels, measured after thyroxine withdrawal or thyrogen stimulation, were 4.0 ng/ml in the TT + LVIND group versus 4.7 ng/ml in the TT group (p = 0.07). The average ablative dose of 131I was 111.8 mCi in the dissection group and 98.5 mCi in the TT‐only group.

Conclusions

There is no evidence that uptake of 131I is reduced by performance of a central neck dissection in patients with well‐differentiated thyroid cancer. Preablation thyroglobulin levels were not altered by level VI lymph node dissection.
Fine tuning the transcription of ldhA for d-lactate production
Authors: Zhou Li , Shen Wei , Niu Dan-Dan , Tian Kang-Ming , Prior Bernard A , Shi Gui-Yang , Singh Suren , Wang Zheng-Xiang
Published: March 2012

Fine tuning of the key enzymes to moderate rather than high expression levels could overproduce the desired metabolic products without inhibiting cell growth. The aims of this investigation were to regulate rates of lactate production and cell growth in recombinant Escherichia coli through promoter engineering and to evaluate the transcriptional function of the upstream region of ldhA (encoding fermentative lactate dehydrogenase in E. coli). Twelve ldhA genes with sequentially shortened chromosomal upstream regions were cloned in an ldhA deletion, E. coli CICIM B0013-080C (ack-pta pps pflB dld poxB adhE frdA ldhA). The varied ldhA upstream regions were further analyzed using program NNPP2.2 (Neural Network Promoter Prediction 2.2) to predict the possible promoter regions. Two-phase fermentations (aerobic growth and oxygen-limited production) of these strains showed that shortening the ldhA upstream sequence from 291 to 106 bp successively reduced aerobic lactate synthesis and the inhibition effect on cell growth during the first phase. Simultaneously, oxygen-limited lactate productivity was increased during the second phase. The putative promoter downstream of the −96 site of ldhA could function as a transcriptional promoter or regulator. B0013-080C/pTH-rrnB-ldhA8, with the 72-bp upstream segment of ldhA, could be grown at a high rate and achieve a high oxygen-limited lactate productivity of 1.09 g g−1 h−1. No transcriptional promoting region was apparent downstream of the −61 site of ldhA. We identified the latent transcription regions in the ldhA upstream sequence, which will help to understand regulation of ldhA expression.
Prevalence of symptoms in female Fabry disease patients: a case‐control survey
Authors: Bouwman Machtelt G. , Rombach Saskia M. , Schenk Erica , Sweeb Annelies , Wijburg Frits A. , Hollak Carla E. M. , Linthorst Gabor E.
Published: March 2012

Background

Fabry disease (FD) is an X‐linked lysosomal storage disorder, caused by a deficiency of α‐galactosidase A. Several studies demonstrated that heterozygotes have symptoms such as acroparesthesia, abdominal pain and chronic fatigue. However, as these symptoms are aspecific and relatively common in the general population, it is important to compare the prevalence of these symptoms with an appropriate control group. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of signs and symptoms in FD females in comparison to a control group.

Methods

FD females and age‐matched controls were approached to complete a questionnaire. This questionnaire was developed by the Dutch Fabry patient organisation (Fabry Support en Informatie Groep Nederland, FSIGN) with input from Fabry expert‐physicians from the AMC. We compared the prevalence symptoms using Pearson's chi‐square test. Bonferroni correction was used to correct for multiple comparisons.

Results

A total of 63 heterozygotes and 52 controls completed the questionnaire. Many symptoms were also common in controls. Yet, fatigue, palpitations, pains in hands and feet, joint pain, dizziness, loss of libido and proteinuria during pregnancy were more common in Fabry females (all p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In addition to acroparesthesia – fatigue, palpitations, dizziness, proteinuria during pregnancy, libido loss and joint pain are more prevalent in FD females as compared to a control group. Although, these symptoms are present in a significant proportion of normal controls they deserve further attention by treating physicians to better understand their significance, treatment and relationship with FD.
Beta‐Glucosylceramide Administration (i.p.) Activates Natural Killer T cells In Vivo and Prevents Tumor Metastasis in Mice
Authors: Inafuku Masashi , Li Changchun , Kanda Yasuhiro , Kawamura Toshihiko , Takeda Kazuyoshi , Oku Hirosuke , Watanabe Hisami
Published: March 2012

Natural killer (NK) T cells are well known to play important roles in both tumor rejection and the defense against infectious. Therefore, the antitumor potential of NKT cell‐activating antigens have been the focus for the development of NKT cell‐based immunotherapies. Up to now, several studies have revealed that the administrations of glycolipids (e.g. α‐galactosylceramide) can successfully treat certain metastatic tumors. However, liver injuries appeared upon the application of these antigens. We previously examined the potential of using β‐glucosylceramide (β‐GlcCer) to inhibit tumor metastasis to the liver. The aim of this study was to determine the antimetastatic effects of β‐GlcCer and its impact on the activation of NKT cells. Intraperitoneal administration of β‐GlcCer enhanced the production of interferon‐γ from hepatic lymphocytes containing NKT cells, and increased the cytotoxicity of hepatic lymphocytes against tumor cells. Moreover, β‐GlcCer administration suppressed the hepatic metastasis of tumors in wild type (WT) mice, but not in CD1d−/− or Jα18−/− mice. The drawback associated with the other glycolipids in liver injury was not noted in WT mice treated with the continuous daily administration of β‐GlcCer for 2 weeks. The present study demonstrated that β‐GlcCer treatment activates invariant NKT cells, thus resulting in the inhibition of tumor metastasis.
Effects of Monoacylglycerols on the Cold Flow Properties of Biodiesel
Authors: Dunn Robert O.
Published: March 2012

Biodiesel is a renewable alternative fuel made from plant oils and animal fats that may be burned in a compression–ignition (diesel) engine. It is composed of mono‐alkyl fatty acid esters made from plant oils or animal fats mainly by transesterification with methanol or ethanol. This process leaves behind small concentrations of minor constituents including monoacylglycerols (MAG). Saturated MAG have low solubility in biodiesel and may form solid residues during storage in cold weather. Soybean oil‐fatty acid methyl esters (SME) were mixed with up to 1.0 mass% MAG to evaluate the effects on cloud point (CP), freezing point (FP), cold filter plugging point (CFPP), and wax appearance point (WAP). Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) results showed that MAG with only 27.6 mass% total long chain (C16–C18) saturated fatty acid content had melting transitions between 54 and 59.0 °C. Furthermore, DSC analysis indicated that pure monoolein may be problematic with respect to melting transitions between 25.4 and 33.4 °C. Solubility data for SME–MAG mixtures indicated a broad transition temperature range from solid at low temperature to liquid at temperatures exceeding 60 °C. Increasing the added MAG content from 0.10 to 1.0 mass% increased both CP and FP. Cold filter plugging point demonstrated higher sensitivity than CP or FP at added MAG content below 0.10 mass%, though it was not affected by increasing MAG concentration above 0.50 mass%. Wax appearance point showed no effects until added MAG content exceeded 0.25 mass%. Kinematic viscosity measured at 5 °C similarly showed no effects until added MAG concentration exceeded 0.20 mass%. Specific gravity at 15.6 °C and refractive index at 25 °C were not greatly affected by added MAG except at concentrations greater than 0.10 mass%.