bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of the Dexamethasone‐Corticotrophin Releasing Hormone Test to Assess Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal Axis Function in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Hasan Eman A. , Jessop David S. , Power Lynsey L. , Monk Paul T. , Kirwan John R.
Published: October 2009

Objectives. Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Adrenal axis function may be abnormal in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). A pilot study in 7 patients suggested impaired glucocorticoid feedback in some patients after the dexamethasone‐corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) test. This study aimed to investigate the dexamethasone‐corticotrophin releasing factor test in a larger group of patients and relate the results to characteristics of the disease. Methods. Outpatients with active RA (≥3 swollen and tender joints and C‐reactive protein > 10 mg/L) took dexamethasone (1.5 mg) at 23:00 hour in the evening. Next day, baseline saliva and plasma samples were collected, CRH was infused at 11:00 hour, and 4 serial blood and saliva samples were collected. Plasma samples were stored at −80∘C and a radioimmunoassay performed for saliva and plasma cortisol.
Results. All 20 participants showed normal dexamethasone suppression and mounted no response to the CRH challenge. In samples with measurable cortisol, there was a strong correlation between saliva and plasma values (r = 0.876, n = 26, P < .01). Conclusion. No abnormalities were found in the Dexamethasone‐CRH test in RA patients in contrast to a previous pilot study. Salivary cortisol measurement may offer an alternative noninvasive technique to plasma cortisol in RA patients in future studies.
Process, Structure, and Properties of Electrospun Carbon Nanotube‐Reinforced Nanocomposite Yarns
Authors: Uddin Nasir M. , Ko Frank , Xiong Jie , Farouk Bakhtier , Capaldi Franco
Published: October 2009

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are dispersed into polyacrylonitrile polymer solution and then assembled into continuous nanocomposite yarns through the drum‐tape co‐electrospinning process to facilitate the translation of CNT properties to higher order structures. We explore the dispersion of CNTs in a polymer matrix, the process of obtaining continuous yarn through electrospinning, and the surface morphology and mechanical properties of the nanocomposite yarn.
Hydrogen Stark Broadened Brackett lines
Authors: Stehlé C. , Fouquet S.
Published: October 2009

Stark-broadened lines of the hydrogen Brackett series are computed for the conditions of stellar atmospheres and circumstellar envelopes. The computation is performed within the Model Microfield Method, which includes the ion dynamic effects and makes the bridge between the impact limit at low density and the static limit at high density and in the line wings. The computation gives the area normalized line shape, from the line core up to the static line wings.
Heregulin-Induced VEGF Expression via the ErbB3 Signaling Pathway in Colon Cancer
Authors: Yonezawa Masaoki , Wada Ken , Tatsuguchi Atsushi , Akamatsu Tomonori , Gudis Katya , Seo Tsuguhiko , Mitsui Keigo , Nagata Kazuhiro , Tanaka Shu , Fujimori Shunji , Sakamoto Choitsu
Published: October 2009

Background/Aims: Heregulin (HRG/NRG) ligation to erbB3/4 promotes their respective heterodimerization with erbB2, and consequent erbB2 tyrosine phosphorylation. Although HRG has been shown to be expressed in a variety of cancer tissues, its expression and role in colon cancer have yet to be clarified. We therefore examined the link between the expression of these erbB receptors, and the relationship between HRG and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression in colon cancer. Methods: We analyzed the effects of HRG on VEGF secretion in 6 colorectal cancer cell lines by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and HRG-induced p85 subunit of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (p85 PI-3K), Akt, extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) activation in Caco-2 colon cancer cell lines by Western blot. We also examined HRG and VEGF mRNA expression in 16 colon cancer biopsy samples by real-time PCR. The localization of HRG and VEGF protein expression in colon cancer tissue was detected by immunohistochemistry. Results: Exogenous HRG stimulated VEGF secretion in all cell lines examined, and VEGF mRNA expression in Caco-2 cells. HRG also activated p85 PI-3K, Akt, ERK1/2, and p38 MAPK. VEGF secretion was inhibited by both specific p38 MAPK inhibitor and proteasome inhibitor that inhibit nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation. In colon cancer biopsy samples, HRG mRNA expression correlated with VEGF mRNA expression. HRG immunoreactivity was observed both in cancer cells and in mesenchymal cells in colon cancer tissues. Conclusion: These data suggest that HRG might affect colon cancer growth by regulating VEGF secretion via the erbB3 signaling pathway through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms.
Thrombophilia and Hypercoagulability
Authors: Hassouna Houria I.
Published: October 2009

This is a review of less well-known aspects of thrombophilia and hypercoagulability as they relate to thrombosis. Thrombosis is an abnormal fibrin clot that develops in circulating blood with clinical symptoms of one or more arterial and/or venous obstructions exclusively identified by imaging techniques. The terms thrombophilia and hypercoagulability are often used indiscriminately when they are in fact separate entities. Thrombophilia is an inherited or acquired clinical phenotype manifesting in selected individuals as a greater risk to develop recurrent thrombosis at a younger age than the general population, with considerable differences in the magnitude of risks among individuals in the same family with the same thrombophilic gene defect. Hypercoagulability is a laboratory phenotype whereby in vivo activation of clotting, fibrinolysis, endothelial cells and platelets is identified in vitro by specialized clotting techniques and by specific antibodies directed at biomarkers of clotting activation and damaged vasculature. Hypercoagulability may be provoked by drugs to treat bleeding in hemophilia, by sepsis, inflammation, surgery, blood stasis, atherosclerosis, and it manifests selectively in inherited and acquired thrombophilia. A chronology of the discovery of acquired and inherited thrombophilia puts in perspective the data analyzed in two representative large family studies that address whether venous and arterial thrombosis are a necessary outcome in thrombophilia, and the question, whether patients with inherited antithrombin, protein C and protein S deficiencies need to be treated after a first episode of thrombosis. The liberal use of case vignettes emphasizes a close relationship and the distinction between thrombosis, thrombophilia and hypercoagulability.
Relationship between Postoperative Infectious Complications and Glycemic Control for Diabetic Patients in an Orthopedic Hospital in Kuwait
Authors: Lamloum S.M. , Mobasher L.A. , Karar A.H. , Basiony L. , Abdallah T.H. , Al-Saleh A.I. , Al-Shamali N.A.
Published: October 2009

Objective: To study the relationship between postoperative infectious complications and glycemic control for diabetic patients in an orthopedic hospital in Kuwait. Subjects and Methods: Patients who underwent surgical orthopedic procedures between 2006 and 2007 were identified to provide demographic and clinical informations including age, gender, type of surgery, length of operation, HbA1c values, nature of specimens and species of the isolated pathogens. HbA1c <7% was used as the breaking point for diabetic control and occurrence of postoperative complications. Primary outcomes with infectious complications, including urinary tract infection, surgical site infection (SSI), lower respiratory tract infection and sepsis with different isolated pathogens were identified at least 48 h postoperatively. Results: Of 318 diabetic patients who underwent surgical operations, 90 (28.3%) developed postoperative complications; HbA1c <7% was significantly associated with decreased infectious complications with an adjusted odds ratio of 2.51 (95% confidence interval, 1.20–2.89). Regarding types of complications, urinary tract infectious complications were significantly higher among those patients with HbA1c ≥7% (p < 0.0001), while other complications (SSI, lower respiratory tract infection and sepsis) showed nonsignificant differences (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Our study confirmed a close association between preoperative glucose control indicated by HbA1c levels <7% and a decreased risk of postoperative infectious complications. Ideally, preoperative blood sugar should be controlled prior to elective surgery. Prophylaxis by antibiotics with preoperative patient preparation, proficient surgical technique and postoperative wound care is recommended for uncontrolled diabetics subjected to surgery.
Cross-Talk between Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase and Cyclooxygenase in Helicobacter-pylori-Induced Gastritis
Authors: Franco L. , Talamini G.
Published: October 2009

Objectives: The present study examined the cross-talk between prostanoids and nitric oxide (NO) in human gastric biopsies during Helicobacter pylori infection. Subjects and Methods: A pool of 1 or 2 biopsies per patient (11 H. pylori positive and 9 H. pylori negative) were incubated in the medium with/without drugs, 1400W and NS-398, inhibitors of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), respectively. Levels of NO and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), predominant products of activity of NOS and COX enzymes, were measured in the medium whereas the expressions of iNOS and COX protein, examined by Western blotting, were measured in the biopsies. Results: The 11 patients with H. pylori infection showed a marked expression of COX-2 and iNOS proteins and high levels of PGE2 and NO, as a consequence of iNOS and COX-2 activation, while proteins were absent and the level of nitrite and PGE2 was low in the 9 noninfected patients. The COX-2 inhibitor decreased both NO and PGE2. The iNOS-specific inhibitor decreased NO but did not have any effect on the increase in gastric mucosal PGE2. Both inhibitors had no effect on the protein level of these two enzymes. Conclusions: The data showed that COX-2 inhibitor might modulate the iNOS pathway, suggesting that COX-2 activity and/or its products may be related to the functional activation of iNOS but not to the expression of iNOS protein.
Three- and Four-Dimensional Fetal Echocardiography
Authors: Turan Sifa , Turan Ozhan , Baschat Ahmet A.
Published: October 2009

The rapid continuing development of 3-dimensional ultrasound imaging technologies has extended capabilities of fetal cardiac scanning beyond 2-dimensional imaging technologies and now provides a wide array of analytic possibilities. The acquisition of the 3D volume information is based on initial application of 2-dimensional imaging techniques including grey scale, Doppler, Power Doppler and B-flow modalities. Once the cardiac volume is obtained a combination of postprocessing tools such as surface mode, minimal mode, transverse rendering, inversion and glass body modes allow preferential display of various features of the fetal heart. Motion display modes including cine-loop and spatiotemporal image correlation in combination with automated and semiautomated display of examination planes opens a whole new array of diagnostic possibilities in clinical practice.
Fetal Transfusion of Red Blood Cells for Alloimmunization: Validity of a Published Equation
Authors: Le Ray Camille , Hudon Lynda , Leduc Line
Published: October 2009

Objective: To validate the equation published in 1990 by Leduc et al. for red blood cell fetal transfusion where fetoplacental blood volume (VO) = 100 ml/kg, then improve its precision. Methods: We reviewed 101 fetal transfusions among 32 patients. We analyzed risk factors for an inaccurate estimation with uni- and multivariate analysis. We compared the obtained Leduc formula with three other published equations. Results: Fetal weight and gestational age were risk factors for an inaccurate estimation of the final Hct. Before 32 weeks the estimation of VO was 120 ml/kg instead of 100 ml/kg. All formulae overestimated the mean expected Hct value. However, expected Hct estimated by Leduc’s formula is the nearest of the observed final Hct. Conclusion: Leduc’s equation seems to be accurate, but less so for the youngest fetuses. We propose an adapted formula VO according to gestational age and fetal weight estimation.
Gestational Age-Specific Cutoff Levels of TDx-FLM II for the Prediction of Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome
Authors: Bennasar Mar , Figueras Francesc , Palacio Montse , Bellart Jordi , Casals Elena , Figueras Josep , Coll Oriol , Gratacós Eduard
Published: October 2009

Aim: To construct a predictive model for respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) from gestational age (GA) at delivery and TDx-FLM II value. Methods: Pregnant women who underwent an amniocentesis in which TDx-FLM II was determined were included in the study. A model for the occurrence of RDS was constructed by means of a logistic regression procedure from TDx-FLM II values and GA at delivery. Results: The mean value of TDx-FLM II was 47.11 mg/g. The mean GA at delivery was 33.4 weeks. The incidence of RDS was 7.8% (18/231). The optimal cutoff of predicted risk for respiratory distress was found to be 8.8%, resulting in a sensitivity and specificity of 89 and 83%, respectively. Conclusions: The adjustment of the TDx-FLM II value for GA at delivery results in a significant improvement in the predictive capacity of the test for the occurrence of RDS. The use of GA-specific cutoff values may simplify clinical decisions.
Fluoroquinolone-Resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Guss Joel , Doghramji Laurel , Edelstein Paul H. , Chiu Alexander G.
Published: October 2009

Background:Pseudomonas aeruginosa is cultured in nearly 1 of 5 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and a history of sinus surgery. Fluoroquinolones are the only enterally administered antibiotics with efficacy against P. aeruginosa, but their frequent empiric use in the community raises concern for a rise in resistance. Objective: It was the aim of this study to determine the prevalence of fluoroquinolone-resistant P. aeruginosa in a tertiary rhinology practice. Methods: All bacterial sinus culture results from the outpatient otolaryngology clinic that yielded P. aeruginosa over a 5-year period (2002–2007) were reviewed along with the medical records of a randomly selected subset of patients. Results: In total, 689 culture results of 324 patients were examined. Nearly all patients had a history of endoscopic sinus surgery. Of all P. aeruginosa cultured, 13% were resistant to levofloxacin and 5% were intermediately sensitive, while 5% were resistant to ciprofloxacin and 7% intermediately sensitive. Of the 324 patients in the study, 19 and 15% had a history of a P. aeruginosa culture resistant to levofloxacin or ciprofloxacin, respectively. Mucoid strains of P. aeruginosa were significantly more likely to be fluoroquinolone resistant. No patient comorbidities were associated with a higher rate of resistance. The prevalence of resistant cultures remained stable over the 5-year study period. Conclusions:P. aeruginosa is cultured primarily in patients with previous sinus surgery. Nearly 20% of isolates are resistant to fluoroquinolones. Resistance to levofloxacin is more common than resistance to ciprofloxacin. This study supports the use of culture-directed therapy in the management of the postfunctional endoscopic sinus surgery patient and the avoidance of empiric use of fluoroquinolones.
A Prospective Study on the Development of Alzheimer’s Disease with Regard to Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone and Homocysteine
Authors: Annerbo Sylvia , Kivipelto Miia , Lökk Johan
Published: October 2009

Background/Aim: The combination of elevated total homocysteine (tHcy) levels and low levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) are linked to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in some studies, although the evidence is mixed. Our objective was to prospectively investigate the association between tHcy and TSH and the subsequent development of AD. Methods: A subsample of 200 nondemented subjects was taken from the Kungsholmen Project, a population-based study among people ≥75 years. Information about tHcy and TSH levels were taken from the baseline investigation of the Kungsholmen Project study. Results: Increased tHcy levels were related to an elevated risk of AD (n = 61) after a mean follow-up time of 6.7 years. People with high tHcy (the 3rd tertile) had more than twice as high a risk of developing AD than those with low tHcy, even after adjusting for age, sex, education, ApoE status, MMSE score and laboratory parameters. tHcy was negatively correlated with TSH (p = 0.02). There was neither an influence of TSH nor an interaction between tHcy and TSH in the development of AD. Conclusions: These results suggest that homocysteine, but not TSH, is involved in the development of AD. The connection between elevated tHcy and low TSH levels needs to be studied further.
Clinical Equivalence of Controlled-Release Oxycodone 20 mg and Controlled-Release Tramadol 200 mg after Surgery for Breast Cancer
Authors: Kampe Sandra , Wolter Karsten , Warm Mathias , Dagtekin Oguzhan , Shaheen Sasan , Landwehr Susanne
Published: October 2009

Aims: To assess clinical equivalence of 20 mg controlled-release oxycodone (Oxygesic®; Mundipharma, Limburg, Germany) and 200 mg controlled-release tramadol (Tramal long®; Grünenthal, Aachen, Germany) on a 12-hour dosing schedule in a randomized, double-blinded study of 54 ASA I–III physical status (American Society of Anesthesiologists classification of physical status) patients undergoing surgery for breast cancer. Methods: General anesthesia using remifentanil and propofol was performed for surgery. Patients were randomly allocated to 2 groups, receiving either 20 mg controlled-release oxycodone (Oxy group) or 200 mg controlled-release tramadol (Trama group) with the premedication (7.5 mg midazolam) and again 12 hours later. All patients had access to rescue medication (i.v. paracetamol). The primary variables for clinical equivalence were the differences between the mean values for pain scores at rest and pain scores on coughing over 24 hours after operation. The equivalence margin was determined as ±10 on the visual analogue scale. Results: Fifty-four patients were enrolled. Regarding pain scores at rest, the 90% CI of the mean differences between the treatment groups over 24 hours after operation was found to be within the predefined equivalence margin [–4.5 to +1.7], and the CI values for pain scores on coughing [–6.2 to +1.7] were similar. Cumulative paracetamol given over the 24-hour observation period did not differ significantly between the Oxy group (1.32 ±1.9 g) and the Trama group (1.61 ± 1.1 g; p = 0.32). There were no significant differences between the treatment groups regarding adverse events such as nausea (p = 0.13), vomiting (p = 0.24) and itching (p = 0.77). Also, no differences were found concerning patient satisfaction scores (p = 0.8) or patients’ general perception of postoperative pain management (p = 0.71). Conclusion: 20 mg controlled-release oxycodone is clinically equivalent to 200 mg controlled-release tramadol for postoperative analgesia after surgery for breast cancer.
Niacin Promotes Cholesterol Efflux through Stimulation of the PPARγ-LXRα-ABCA1 Pathway in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Wu Zhi-Hong , Zhao Shui-Ping
Published: October 2009

Background: The mechanism by which niacin increases plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is not clearly understood yet. Adipocytes contain the largest pool of free cholesterol in the body and might play a significant role in cholesterol metabolism. Despite preferential accumulation in adipose tissue, it is not clear whether the actions of niacin on cholesterol efflux from adipocytes contribute to its HDL-raising effect. Methods: Fully differentiated 3T3-L1 adipocytes were incubated in the medium containing various concentrations of niacin (0–1.0 mmol/l) for 24 h. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to evaluate peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), LXRα and ABCA1 mRNA expression in adipocytes. Cholesterol efflux rate was determined by measuring the release of radioactivity from 3H-cholesterolprelabeled cells into medium containing apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I). Results: Niacin dose-dependently stimulated PPARγ, LXRα and ABCA1 mRNA expression and promoted ApoA-I-induced cholesterol efflux in adipocytes. Treatment of PPARγ-selective antagonist GW9662 significantly abolished the niacin-induced increase in LXRα and ABCA1 mRNA expression and cholesterol efflux to ApoA-I. Conclusions: Niacin may promote cholesterol efflux from adipocytes to ApoA-I via activation of the PPARγ-LXRα-ABCA1 pathway. To some extent, this effect might help to explain the possible mechanism by which niacin increases plasma HDL-C levels.
Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 and Matrix-Metalloproteinases in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: Are They Associated with Cardiovascular Disease?
Authors: Peiskerová M. , Kalousová M. , Kratochvílová M. , Dusilová-Sulková S. , Uhrová J. , Bandúr S. , Malbohan I.M. , Zima T. , Tesař V.
Published: October 2009

Background: High cardiovascular risk in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may be related to mineral disorder and microinflammation. Fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) is a phosphatonin and inhibitor of calcitriol synthesis, which is associated with poor prognosis in CKD patients starting dialysis. Matrix-metalloproteinases (MMP-2, MMP-9) contribute to myocardial remodeling and arterial calcification. FGF-23 and MMPs levels are altered in CKD, however, little is known about their association and relation to cardiovascular (CV) disease. Methods: Standard laboratory parameters, plasma levels of MMP-2, MMP-9, FGF-23, PAPP-A and CV disease history were assessed in 80 patients with CKD 1–5 and 44 healthy control subjects. Results: FGF-23 and MMP-2 (assessed by ELISA) were higher in CKD patients compared to controls. FGF-23 increased from CKD 3, whereas MMP-2 increased only in CKD 5. FGF-23 was positively associated with MMP-2, adjusted to age, eGFR, phosphatemia, calcitriol and parathormone. FGF-23 independently correlated with parathormone and inversely with calcitriol, whereas MMP-2 was related to phosphatemia. FGF-23 was higher in subjects with a history of CV disease compared to those free of such history (559.0 vs.184.0 RU/ml), adjusted to age and eGFR. Conclusion: Our data suggest a possible relationship between FGF-23, MMP-2 and CV disease in CKD. Potential causality of this association remains to be elucidated.
Program Update and Novel Use of the DESPAIR Program to Design a Genome-Wide Linkage Study Using Relative Pairs
Authors: Ochs-Balcom Heather M. , Guo Xiuqing , Yonebayashi Takashi , Wiesner Georgia , Elston Robert C.
Published: October 2009

DESPAIR (DESign for PAIRs) is a computer program useful for designing a two-stage linkage study using relative pairs for a dichotomous phenotype. It determines the optimal two-stage study design – i.e., for specified power and significance level, how many pairs of relatives should be studied, how many equally spaced markers should be used initially, and what criterion should be used to specify the markers around which further searching should be done at a second stage. The program will calculate either the number of relative pairs required for a given number of first-stage markers or the number of markers required for a given number of relative pairs. We highlight the use of the latest version of DESPAIR to decide to what extent additional fine mapping in a candidate region of interest can lead to an increase in power in a previous linkage study sample. We also discuss new features of the program, such as the mean difference test for affected and discordant relative pairs and estimation of full sibling pair equivalents to design a study when several types of relative pairs are available. DESPAIR is part of the S.A.G.E. program package and is freely available for use online.
A Haplotype Sharing Method for Determining the Relative Age of SNP Alleles
Authors: de Vries André R. , te Meerman Gerard J.
Published: October 2009

There are two aspects regarding the age of alleles that are relevant as indicators of the timing of mutational events. The first is to know which alleles are species-specific; the second is about the time of origin of species-specific alleles. Both aspects can be analyzed using haplotype-sharing methods, by using the length of shared haplotypes as a measure of the speed of coalescence to common ancestors. The availability of sequence data for closely related species makes it possible to infer the original SNP allele. The allele present in more than one species is the original allele. In general, original alleles are expected to be more frequent, because the cumulative effects of genetic drift determine the maximum frequency a new mutant can reach. The human species is relatively young, and founder effects are still observable as extended linkage disequilibrium. Coalescence to a single founder takes place in human populations over a time frame that is so small that original haplotypes spanning several markers are still observable in current high-density SNP genotyping arrays. We show here that the length of shared haplotypes surrounding alleles is an indicator of the relative ages of alleles, and it is applicable to original and species-specific alleles.
Measurement of Growth Promoting Activity in Human Milk Using a Fetal Small Intestinal Cell Line
Authors: Ichiba H. , Kusuda S. , Itagane Y. , Fujita K. , Issiki G.
Published: October 2009

To evaluate the effect of the growth promoting activity in human milk on intestinal cells, a bioassay method was established using a fetal intestinal cell line (FHS 74 Int, ATCC CCL 241), since the developing intestine is considered to be a target organ for the growth factors present in human milk. Human milk had a growth promoting activity on the cultured human fetal intestinal cells. The activity level was very high in colostrum and decreased gradually during lactation, while formula products had no activity. The epidermal growth factor (EGF) concentration in human milk was significantly correlated with the growth promoting activity measured by bioassay. Thus, EGF may be the main growth factor for the proliferation of intestinal cells. These results suggest that human milk may stimulate the proliferation of intestinal cells in newborn infants, especially in very-low-birth-weight infants, and accelerate the maturation of the intestinal portion of the digestive system.
Characterization and Developmental Expression of Binding Sites for the Transplacental Iron Transport Protein, Uteroferrin, in Fetal Hematopoietic Tissues
Authors: Michel Frank J. , Fliss Maria Filomena V. , Bazer Fuller W. , Simmen Rosalia C.M.
Published: October 2009

In the pig, iron transport to the developing fetus during pregnancy involves, in part, uteroferrin (UF), a secreted progesterone-induced protein of the uterus. Neonatal pigs suffer from anemia, and the decrease in the synthesis of UF protein in late pregnancy was suggested to be partly responsible for this condition. To examine whether diminished capacity for UF uptake by pig fetuses may also contribute to neonatal anemia, binding sites for 125I-UF were examined in plasma membrane-enriched fractions of fetal liver and spleen, which are sites of fetal hematopoiesis. In addition, changes in the number of these binding sites as a function of fetal development were evaluated. Binding of 125I-UF to liver membrane fractions was displaced by intact UF > deglycosylated (aglyco) UF > ovalbumin, but not by yeast mannan. Scatchard analysis of radioligand binding showed the presence of a single class of binding sites with a dissociation constant of 10––7M. During fetal development and at postpartum (day 5), liver binding sites for UF remained invariant and displayed the same affinity. In contrast, the number of binding sites for UF in fetal spleen increased from midpregnancy to parturition and remained elevated in day 5 neonatal spleen. Affinity cross-linking of 125I-UF to liver membrane-associated binding sites and subsequent analysis by gel electrophoresis and autoradiography demonstrated a single labeled protein complex of Mr 58,000 and 87,000 under denaturing and nondenaturing conditions, respectively. The appearance of these bands was inhibited by intact UF, but not ovalbumin. The characteristics of the membrane-associated binding sites for UF differed from those of the mannose-related receptor previously described in reticuloendothelial cells of fetal liver. The invariant presence of UF binding components in sites of hematopoiesis during fetal development suggests that mechanism(s) unrelated to specific uptake of UF are responsible for neonatal anemia.
Early-Life Patterns of Plasma Gut Regulatory Peptide Levels in Calves: Effects of the First Meals
Authors: Guílloteau P. , Chayvialle J.A. , Toullec R. , Grongnet J.F. , Bernard Christine
Published: October 2009

The effects of the first meals on the release of seven gut regulatory peptides were studied in newborn calves fed colostrum either at serial intervals during the first day of life or at 28 h only. Fasted animals showed no significant variation of plasma peptides until the first feed, except for somatostatin, which peaked at 4-5 h and declined thereafter. As assessed before and 1 h after feeding, the first meal tended to induce rises in plasma gastrin, cholecystokinin and pancreatic polypeptide, while the other peptides were unaffected. Repeated colostrum feeds induced marked increases in plasma gastrin, cholecystokinin, secretin and vasoactive intestinal peptide from 10 h on. Pancreatic polypeptide was transiently increased from 4 to 16 h. Feeding was followed by a transitory reduction of plasma somatostatin and by a prolonged decrease of plasma motilin. We conclude that colostrum feeding potently modulates the release of several regulatory peptides shortly after birth in calves. These responses may be important for the adaptation of gut growth, secretions and motility to food ingestion in the neonatal period.
Carcass Composition and Resistance to Fasting in Neonatal Piglets Born of Sows Immunized against Somatostatin and/or Receiving Growth Hormone-Releasing Factor Injections during Gestation
Authors: Farmer C. , Petitclerc D. , Pelletier G. , Gaudreau P. , Brazeau P.
Published: October 2009

Thirty-eight gestating sows were either immunized against somatostatin (SRIF) and/or injected with growth hormone-releasing factor (GRF). Treatment effects on carcass composition and resistance of newborn piglets to a 60-hour fast were investigated. Protein content of carcasses at birth was increased in piglets of sows receiving GRF or immunized against SRIF, however, when sows received both treatments there was a reduction in carcass protein content (p = 0.01). Other carcass components were unaltered by treatments, and none of the treatments affected metabolic or endocrine profiles of piglets at birth. Concentrations of GH, IGF-I (p < 0.01), glucagon and cortisol (p < 0.05) increased linearly with duration of fast, whereas glucose values decreased. Resistance to fasting was unaltered in piglets from any treatment thereby suggesting that exogenous GRF and/or SRIF immunization of sows during gestation are unlikely to improve survival of newborn piglets.
Early Differentiation of the Gonads in the Gray Short-Tailed Opossum (Monodelphis domestica)
Authors: Fadem Barbara H. , Tesoriero John V. , Whang Michael
Published: October 2009

The time course for gonadal development in gray short-tailed opossums was examined in this study. It was found that the gonads were not differentiated on day 1 of postnatal life (the day of birth). While testis development was seen by postnatal day 4, ovarian development did not occur until after postnatal day 16. In both sexes, primordial germ cells were not identified until after postnatal day 1. These findings are discussed with respect to gonadal differentiation in other marsupial species.
Effect of Community Characteristics on Familial Clustering of End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Song Eun-Young , McClellan William M. , McClellan Ann , Gadi Rajyalakshmi , Hadley Alexander C. , Krisher Jenna , Clay Margo , Freedman Barry I.
Published: October 2009

Background: Lower socioeconomic status is generally associated with an increased risk of end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The relationship between community characteristics reflecting socioeconomic status and familial aggregation of common forms of ESRD has not been studied. Methods: Demographic data and family history of ESRD were collected from 23,880 incident dialysis patients in ESRD Network 6 between 1995 and 2003. Addresses were geocoded and linked to the 2000 census 5-digit zip code-level database that includes community demographic, social and economic characteristics. Clustering of patients having a family history of ESRD at the community level was accounted for using a generalized estimating equations (GEE) model. Multivariate analysis estimated associations between family history of ESRD and community-level characteristics. Results: Twenty-three percent of patients reported a family history of ESRD. After adjusting for individual demographic characteristics, multivariate analyses failed to reveal statistically significant relationships between a family history of ESRD and indicators of community socioeconomic status such as median household income, percentage high school graduates, percentage vacant housing units or ethnic composition. Conclusions: Although select community measures of lower socioeconomic status may contribute to the familial clustering of ESRD, non-socioeconomic factors, potentially inherited, appear to be more important contributors to familial aggregation of the common forms of ESRD.
Polycythemia of the Preterm and Full-Term Newborn Infant: Relationship between Hematocrit and Gestational Age, Total Blood Solutes, Reticulocyte Count, and Blood pH
Authors: Carmi Down , Wolach Baruch , Dolfin Tzipora , Merlob Paul
Published: October 2009

The umbilical venous hematocrit at birth (Hct 1) and the peripheral venous hematocrit at 2 h of life (Hct 2) were determined in 78 healthy full-term and 14 healthy preterm newborn infants. Hct 1 was 51.6 ± 4.1 % in full-term infants and 50.8 ± 4% in preterm infants. Hct 2 was 60.9 ± 2 and 58.6 ± 6.1% in full-term and preterm infants, respectively. Significant differences between Hct 1 and Hct 2 were found in both groups of infants (p < 0.01). The blood viscosity increased significantly in both groups from birth to 2 h of life. Neonatal polycythemia (Hct higher than 70% at 2 h of life) was detected in only 3 full-term infants (3.8%). They received partial exchange transfusion. There was a positive linear correlation of Hct 1 with Hct 2 in full-term newborns (r = 0.71 p < 0.001) and preterm infants (r = 0.57, p < 0.02). No infants with Hct 1 equal to or below 50% had Hct 2 higher than 65%. None with Hct 1 between 51 and 54% had Hct 2 higher than 70%. Neither Hct 1 nor Hct 2 correlated with birth weight, gestational age, total blood solutes, or reticulocyte counts at birth in either group. An inverse linear correlation was found between blood pH at birth and Hct 2 in preterm newborn infants (r = 0.66, p < 0.02).
Doxapram for the Initial Treatment of Idiopathic Apnea of Prematurity
Authors: Bairam A. , Faulon M. , Monin P. , Vert P.
Published: October 2009

The ventilatory effects of doxapram in the initial pharmaco-therapy for apnea in the newborn were evaluated in 8 premature infants with idiopathic apnea. All received doxapram for 48 h at 0.25 mg/kg/h on the first day and 1 mg/kg/h on the second day. The ventilatory effects and the airway occlusion pressure (p0.1) were measured by means of a face mask, and a pneumotachograph. Compared to the pretreatment period, the mean of the frequency of central apnea greater than or equal to 15 s decreased significantly (p < 0.01) by 48 and 75% during the first and second day, respectively. Both doses significantly increased inspiratory drive measured by airway occlusion pressure by 20% (p < 0.05) and 32% (p < 0.01) on the first and second day of drug treatment, respectively. Minute ventilation, tidal volume and mean respiratory flow significantly increased only with 1 mg/kg/h of doxapram, accompanied by a significant decrease in transcutaneous Pco2 No side effects were noted. Data suggested that doxapram alone at a dose of 1 mg/kg/h is effective for the treatment of neonatal apnea.
Prostaglandin E1, E2, and F2α in Human Milk and Plasma
Authors: Shimizu Toshiaki , Yamashiro Yuichiro , Yabuta Keijiro
Published: October 2009

Concentrations of prostaglandin E1, E2, and F2α (PGE1, PGE2, and PGF2α) were determined in milk and plasma from mothers of 9 preterm and 11 term infants. The concentration of PGE1 in milk was similar to that in plasma, and the concentrations of PGE2 and PGF2α were approximately 1.2–2 times higher than those in plasma. However, no significant differences in the levels of PGE1, PGE2, and PGF2α were observed between the foremilk and hindmilk, among the colostrum, transitional milk, and mature milk, and between preterm and term milk. Further studies have to be performed to confirm that the stable levels of PGE1, PGE2, and PGF2α in human milk found in this study play an important role in the gastrointestinal function of infants.
Breast Milk Beta-Glucuronidase and Exaggerated Jaundice in the Early Neonatal Period
Authors: Wilson D.C. , Afrasiabi M. , McC. Reid M.
Published: October 2009

Breast-feeding is associated with jaundice in the early neonatal period. Previous work has shown levels of the enzyme β-glucuronidase in maternal breast milk to be related to infant serum bilirubin on postnatal day 21. Our aim was to establish if there was a correlation between the level of breast milk β-glucuronidase and the degree of early (first week) neonatal hyperbilirubunaemia. A study of 55 mother and baby pairs showed that breast milk β-glucuronidase levels had no relationship with the level of infant serum bilirubin between postnatal days 3 and 6. Breast milk β-glucuronidase does not directly account for the early neonatal jaundice seen in breastfed babies.
Ultrastructural Studies on Bone Marrow Development in Embryonic Mice
Authors: Bessler H. , Djaldetti M.
Published: October 2009

The hematopoietic events in the embryonic C57B1/6J mouse bone marrow have been followed by electron microscopy. The first type of cells to appear in the embryonic bone marrow were mesenchymal cells identified at day 15 of gestation. The first recognisable hemopoietic cells to appear were those of the granulocytic series identified as mature cells at day 18, although single red cell precursors were also found at this gestational stage. The real erythroid development was noted on the last days of gestation (days 20 and 21), when also cells of the megakaryocytic series were found. At birth, day one of newborn life, all hematopoietic elements were present. The pattern of hematopoietic development in the embryonic bone marrow was compared to that observed in other embryonic hematopoietic sites.
The Fibrinolytic System in the Newborn: Role of Histidine-Rich Glycoprotein
Authors: Caccamo M.L. , Rossi E. , Salmoiraghi M.G. , Mondonico P. , Gianotti G.A. , Marini A.
Published: October 2009

The fibrinolytic system controls fibrin deposition and its clearance. The efficacy of this system can be evaluated by plasminogen concentration determinations and by the behavior of factors such as histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) which controls plasminogen activation and α2-antiplasmin which controls plasmin activity. Circulating plasminogen levels are decreased in the neonatal period. We studied factors affecting fibrinolysis in neonates and observed that an important reduction in HRG accompanied the reduced circulating plasminogen levels, with the result that 85% of circulating plasminogen was not bound to HRG and was thus free for binding to fibrin and for activation to plasmin. This condition is consistent with the increased fibrinolytic activity secondary to the ‘clotting activation’ observed in the neonatal period particularly on the 1st day of life.
Mode of Delivery, Plasma Catecholamines and Doppler-Derived Cardiac Output in Healthy Term Newborn Infants
Authors: Hirsimäki Hannu , Kero Pentti , Ekblad Henrik , Scheinin Mika , Saraste Markku , Erkkola Risto
Published: October 2009

Umbilical cord arterial and venous concentrations of epinephrine, norepinephrine and the catecholamine metabolites 3,4-dihydroxyphenylglycol and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid were determined in 41 healthy newborn infants delivered vaginally, vaginally with epidural analgesia, by cesarean section under general anesthesia or by cesarean section under epidural anesthesia. Doppler-derived cardiac output and arterial blood pressure were repeatedly measured during the first 48 h of life. There were fairly small differences in umbilical arterial and venous plasma concentrations of epinephrine and norepinephrine between the groups, with the highest levels of norepinephrine in infants delivered vaginally without analgesia (about 10 times as high as in the cesarean, general anesthetized group). No signficant differences were found in the metabolite concentrations. Doppler-derived cardiac output and heart rate decreased in all groups during the study period and, in spite of increased catecholamine levels in the vaginally delivered infants, the differences between the groups were marginal. Healthy term infants with no signs of asphyxia were well prepared for a normal hemodynamic adaptation irrespective of mode of delivery or mode of obstetric anesthesia/analgesia.
Effects of Thiazide Diuretics on the Lipid Profile of Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Kazzi Nadya J. , Morbach Connie A. , Brans Yves W.
Published: October 2009

Hyperlipidemia has been reported in some infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) who received thiazides for extended periods. In this prospective, controlled trial, we studied 17 infants with BPD who received diuretic therapy and 26 control infants who did not receive diuretics. Plasma triglycerides, total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol were measured enzymatically prior to onset of diuretic therapy in the study group of infants and on the day of recruitment into the study in control infants, and every 2 weeks thereafter. Plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations were calculated. At the end of 4 weeks, plasma lipid concentrations were comparable in both groups of infants except for significantly higher plasma HDL cholesterol concentrations observed in infants who received chlorothiazide (39 ± 15 vs. 30 ± 6 mg/dl, p < 0.05). Short-term administration of chlorothiazide to infants with BPD is not associated with clinically significant changes in plasma lipid concentrations.
Sarcoidosis-Associated Fibrosing Mediastinitis with Resultant Pulmonary Hypertension: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Toonkel Rebecca L. , Borczuk Alain C. , Pearson Gregory D. , Horn Evelyn M. , Thomashow Byron M.
Published: October 2009

Pulmonary hypertension, a common manifestation of advanced sarcoidosis, is thought to result from fibrosis with chronic hypoxia and destruction of small vessels, extrinsic compression of pulmonary arteries, or granulomatous vasculitis. We report a case of sarcoidosis-associated pulmonary hypertension due to fibrosing mediastinitis. Our patient presented with cough and dyspnea on exertion and was found to have pulmonary artery enlargement, pulmonary venous compression, and mediastinal soft tissue enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging. Pulmonary hypertension was confirmed by right heart catheterization and sarcoidosis was diagnosed by histologic examination of tissue obtained at mediastinoscopy. Treatment with steroids resulted in decreased pulmonary artery pressures as well as symptomatic improvement. While pulmonary hypertension is a common complication of sarcoidosis, fibrosing mediastinitis is an unusual etiology that should be considered by clinicians.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Histone H3 Lysine 4 Trimethylation in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells of Minimal Change Nephrotic Syndrome Patients
Authors: Zhang Li , Dai Yong , Peng Wujian , Lu Juanjuan , Zhang Yanliang , Wang Linxian
Published: October 2009

Background: Studies of the epigenome have attracted some interest in nephrology. However, to date, our knowledge about the alterations in histone modification in minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) is unknown. This study aimed to investigate the variations in histone H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of patients with MCNS. Methods: H3K4me3 variations were analyzed in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, from 15 MCNS patients and 15 healthy subjects, using the ChIP-chip approach. ChIP real-time PCR is used to validate the microarray results. In addition, mRNA expression and DNA methylation status can also be further analyzed by quantitative (q) RT-PCR and methyl-DNA immunoprecipitation-q PCR, respectively. Results: 848 increased and 231 decreased H3K4me3 probes displaying significant H3K4me3 differences were found in MCNS patients compared with healthy subjects. The results of ChIP real-time PCR coincided well with the microarray. Expression analysis by qRT-PCR revealed positive correlations between mRNA and H3K4me3 levels. DNA methylation alterations were found on selected positive genes (IL4R, HIVEP3, HPSE2, CDH13 and PRKD2). In addition, we also found that there is an inverse relationship between H3K4me3 and promoter DNA methylation in MCNS patients. Conclusion: Our studies indicate that there are significant alterations of H3K4me3 in MCNS patients. These significant H3K4me3 candidates may help to explain the immunological disturbance involved in MCNS patients.
Phosphorus Intake in Preterm Babies and Variation of Tubular Reabsorption for Phosphate per Liter Glomerular Filtrate
Authors: Langhendries J.P. , François A. , Chedid F. , Battisti O. , Bertrand J.M. , Senterre J.
Published: October 2009

Inadequate low intake of phosphorus can induce a hypophosphatemic depletion syndrome resulting in hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, hypophosphatemia, and rickets. Tubular reabsorption for phosphate per liter glomerular filtration rate (TP/GFR) has been proposed as a reliable index of renal phosphate handling for all age groups. In the present study, carried out in 12 healthy premature babies fed unmodified pooled human milk and then a preterm formula for two periods of 10 days, we demonstrated clearly that TP/GFR as well as calciuria can reflect the poor phosphorus intake and that the kidney of preterm babies is able to rapidly adapt itself to an increase in phosphorus diet content.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Lambs through Umbilical Vessel Perfusion: Cardiac and Hepatic Complications
Authors: Bui Kim Chi , Humphries Bridget , Kitagawa Hiroaki , Kosi Mahmoud , Dorio Raymond , Lew Cheryl , Atkinson James , Platzker Arnold
Published: October 2009

Twin lambs were delivered by ceasarean section near term, aralyzed, sedated and randomly assigned to either mechanical ventilation or umbilical arteriovenous ECMO for 48 hours. Umbilical arteriovenous ECMO provided adequate gas exchange with minimal or no ventilation of the native lungs. However, at autopsy, animals treated with umbilical ECMO showed right heart dilation and liver necrosis or hemorrhage compared to their twins treated with mechanical ventilation.