bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment with valacyclovir, famciclovir, or antiretrovirals reduces human herpesvirus‐8 replication in HIV‐1 seropositive men
Authors: Cattamanchi Ashok , Saracino Misty , Selke Stacy , Huang Meei‐Li , Magaret Amalia , Celum Connie , Corey Lawrence , Wald Anna , Casper Corey
Published: August 2011

Human herpesvirus‐8 (HHV‐8) replication is a key factor in Kaposi sarcoma, primary effusion lymphoma, and Castleman disease pathogenesis. In vitro data suggest that antivirals inhibit HHV‐8 replication, but little data exist in humans. Daily oropharyngeal swabs were analyzed from HIV/HHV‐8 dually infected men enrolled in three previous clinical trials of valacyclovir and famciclovir for HIV‐1 and/or HSV‐2 suppression. Fifty‐eight participants contributed 6,036 swabs. HHV‐8 was detected in 1,128 (19%) of 6,036 swabs, including 618 (21%) of 2,992 on placebo, 323 (15%) of 2,221 on valacyclovir, and 187 (23%) of 823 on famciclovir. After adjusting for baseline HIV viral load and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) use, an 18% reduction in HHV‐8 shedding frequency (IRR 0.822; P = 0.011) was found in participants on valacyclovir and a 30% reduction (IRR 0.700; P < 0.001) on famciclovir. HAART was associated with an 89% (IRR 0.129; P = 0.048) reduction in HHV‐8‐shedding. Neither antiviral nor antiretroviral therapy was associated with decreased HHV‐8 quantity. Valacyclovir and famciclovir were associated with modest but significant reductions in HHV‐8 oropharyngeal shedding frequency. In contrast, HAART was a potent inhibitor of HHV‐8 replication. Studies of whether antiviral therapy in combination with ART will prevent HHV‐8‐associated disease appear warranted. J. Med. Virol. 83:1696–1703, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alpine climate during the Holocene: a comparison between records of glaciers, lake sediments and solar activity
Authors: Nussbaumer Samuel U. , Steinhilber Friedhelm , Trachsel Mathias , Breitenmoser Petra , Beer Jürg , Blass Alex , Grosjean Martin , Hafner Albert , Holzhauser Hanspeter , Wanner Heinz , Zumbühl Heinz J.
Published: August 2011

The European Alps are very sensitive and vulnerable to climate change. Recent improvements in Alpine glacier length records and climate reconstructions from annually laminated sediments of Alpine Lake Silvaplana give the opportunity to investigate the relationship between these two data sets of Alpine climate. Two different time frames are considered: the last 500–1000 years as well as the last 7400 years. First, we found good agreement between the two different climate archives during the past millennium: mass accumulation rates and biogenic silica concentration are largely in phase with the glacier length changes of Mer de Glace and Unterer Grindelwaldgletscher, and with the records of glacier length of Grosser Aletschgletscher and Gornergletscher. Secondly, the records are compared with temporally highly resolved data of solar activity. The Sun has had a major impact on the Alpine climate variations in the long term, i.e. several centuries to millennia. Solar activity varies with the Hallstatt periodicity of about 2000 years. Hallstatt minima are identified around 500, 2500 and 5000 a. Around these times grand solar minima (such as the Maunder Minimum) occurred in clusters coinciding with colder Alpine climate expressed by glacier advances. During the Hallstatt maxima around 0, 2000 and 4500 a, the Alpine glaciers generally retreated, indicating a warmer climate. This is supported by archaeological findings at Schnidejoch, a transalpine pass in Switzerland that was only accessible when glaciers had retreated. On shorter timescales, however, the influence of the Sun cannot be as easily detected in Alpine climate change, indicating that in addition to solar forcing, volcanic influence and internal climate variations have played an important role. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A tephrochronology for the Lateglacial palynological record of the Endinger Bruch (Vorpommern, north‐east Germany)
Authors: Lane C. S. , De Klerk P. , Cullen V. L.
Published: August 2011

The tephrostratigraphy of lake sediments in the Endinger Bruch provides the first robust age model for the Lateglacial palynological records of Vorpommern (north‐east Germany). Cryptotephra investigations revealed six tephra layers within sediments spanning from Open vegetation phase I (∼Bølling, ∼15 ka) to the Early Holocene Betula/Pinus forest phase (∼Pre‐boreal, ∼10.5 ka). Four of these layers have been correlated with previously described tephra layers found in sites across Europe. The Laacher See Tephra (Eifel Volcanic Field) is present in very high concentrations within sediments of the Lateglacial Betula (/Pinus) forest phase (∼Allerød). The Vedde Ash (Iceland) lies midway through Open vegetation phase III (∼Younger Dryas). The Hässeldalen and the Askja tephras (Iceland) lie in the Early Holocene Betula/Pinus forest phase (∼Preboreal). These tephra layers have independently derived age estimates, which have been imported into the Endinger Bruch record. Furthermore, the layers facilitate direct correlation of the regional vegetation record with other palaeoenvironmental archives, which contain one or more of the same tephra layers, from Greenland to Southern Europe. In doing this, localized variations are confirmed in some aspects of the pollen stratigraphy; however, transitions between the main vegetation phases appear to occur synchronously (within centennial errors) with the equivalent environmental transitions observed in sites across the European continent. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Safety of intraperitoneal administration of paclitaxel after gastrectomy with en‐bloc D2 Lymph node dissection
Authors: Imano Motohiro , Imamoto Haruhiko , Itoh Tatsuki , Satou Takao , Peng Ying‐Feng , Yasuda Atsushi , Kato Hiroaki , Shiraishi Osamu , Shinkai Masayuki , Yasuda Takushi , Takeyama Yoshifumi , Okuno Kiyokata , Shiozaki Hitoshi
Published: August 2011

Background

The aim of this study was to examine the safety, pharmacokinetics, and cytological efficacy against free intraperitoneal cancer cells of intraperitoneal chemotherapy (IPC) with paclitaxel after gastrectomy with en‐bloc D2 lymph node dissection (GD2) in cases of gastric cancer with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) and/or positive cytological findings in peritoneal washings (CFPW).

Methods

Twenty‐one patients with gastric cancer with PC and/or positive CFPW who underwent GD2 were treated with early, post‐operative, intraperitoneal paclitaxel. Intra‐chemotherapeutic toxicity and operative complication were measured using the common toxicity criteria of the National Cancer Institute, version 3.0. Intraperitoneal and plasma paclitaxel concentrations were measured using a high‐performance liquid chromatography assay.

Results

Grade 3 anemia occurred in two patients (9.5%) and neutropenia was observed in three patients (14.3%). No grade 4 toxicity was observed. A grade 2 operative complication was a superficial surgical site infection (4.8%) that was treated with antibiotics. Cytologically, no viable cancer cells were observed in the intra‐abdominal fluid 24 hr after intraperitoneal administration of paclitaxel. The intraperitoneal/plasma area under the drug concentration–time curve (AUC) ratio was 596.9:1.

Conclusion

IPC with paclitaxel after GD2 is a safe and cytologically effective treatment modality for free intraperitoneal cancer cells. However, additional data are required to determine the effect on survival. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:43–47. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic significance of S100A4 mRNA and protein expression in colorectal cancer
Authors: Kang Yoon‐Goo , Jung Chan‐Kwon , Lee Ahwon , Kang Won‐Kyung , Oh Seung‐Taek , Kang Chang‐Suk
Published: August 2011

Background and Objectives

The calcium‐binding protein S100A4 promotes tumor progression and metastasis. We investigated the expression of S100A4 in colorectal cancer and its clinicopathologic significance in colorectal cancer.

Methods

A total of 526 colorectal cancer patients were examined for S100A4 protein by immunohistochemistry using tissue microarrays. S100A4 mRNA was subsequently investigated by in situ hybridization.

Results

S100A4 protein was expressed in various cell types including tumor cells, but S100A4 mRNA was only expressed in tumor cells. Cytoplasmic expression of S100A4 protein was seen in 127 (24.1%) of 526 tumors and significantly correlated with older age, depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, and worse overall survival. Nuclear expression of S100A4 protein was observed in 136 (25.9%) tumors and significantly related to the depth of invasion, perineural invasion, and worse overall survival. However, there was no correlation between S100A4 mRNA expression and clinicopathological parameters. Upon multivariate analysis nuclear expression of S100A4 protein was found to be an independent prognostic factor of poor survival.

Conclusions

Expression of S100A4 protein in colorectal cancers may indicate tumor progression and lymph node metastasis and can be useful for prediction of overall survival of patients with colorectal cancers. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:119–124. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Factors predicting oncologic outcomes in patients with fewer than 12 lymph nodes retrieved after curative resection for colon cancer
Authors: Huh Jung Wook , Kim Chang Hyun , Kim Hyeong Rok , Kim Young Jin
Published: August 2011

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine which clinicopathological factors influenced the long‐term survival after potentially curative resection of patients with colon cancer having fewer than 12 retrieved lymph nodes.

Methods

Prospective data were collected from 179 patients who had fewer than 12 resected lymph nodes after curative resection for stages I–III colon cancer. The oncological outcomes and the risk factors for recurrence were analyzed, focusing on lymph node ratio (LNR).

Results

The median number of harvested lymph nodes was 7 (range, 1–11). The LNR was associated significantly with T category and lymphovascular invasion. Multivariate analysis revealed that tumor diameter (P = 0.006), perineural invasion (P = 0.043), LNR (P = 0.002), and preoperative carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) level (P = 0.013) were the independent predictors for 5‐year disease‐free survival; T category (P = 0.032), postoperative chemotherapy (P = 0.001), LNR (P = 0.007), and preoperative CEA level (P = 0.023) were the independent predictors for 5‐year overall survival.

Conclusions

The LNR and preoperative CEA level may be reliable predictors of recurrence and survival after curative surgery in patients with colon cancer who have less than 12 lymph nodes examined. J. Surg. Oncol. 2012; 105:125–129. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Phytanic acid – a tetramethyl‐branched fatty acid in food
Authors: Vetter Walter , Schröder Markus
Published: August 2011

Phytanic acid is a tetramethyl‐branched isoprenoid fatty acid. Its presence in food is linked with chlorophyll, which contains its precursor, i. e. the alcohol side‐chain phytol. The bioconversion of phytol into phytanic acid is effective particularly in the rumen and in the marine environment. Thus, milk, other dairy products and meat from ruminants as well as fish contain the highest concentrations of phytanic acid in the range of ˜100–500 mg/100 g lipids. Phytanic acid has been proposed as a marker for organic milk because its abundance can be linked to the amount of chlorophyll present in the cows' diet. Phytanic acid is also involved in a very rare but dramatic disease, and persons suffering from the so‐called Refsum syndrome have to restrict themselves to a diet with low levels of phytanic acid.
Priority of candidates with hepatocellular carcinoma awaiting liver transplantation can be reduced after successful bridge therapy
Authors: Cucchetti Alessandro , Cescon Matteo , Bigonzi Eleonora , Piscaglia Fabio , Golfieri Rita , Ercolani Giorgio , Morelli Maria Cristina , Ravaioli Matteo , Pinna Antonio Daniele
Published: August 2011

The allocation rules for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) who are awaiting liver transplantation (LT) are a difficult issue and are continually evolving. To reduce tumor progression or down-stage advanced disease, most transplant centers have adopted the practice of treating HCC candidates with resection or locoregional therapies. This study was designed to assess the effectiveness of bridge therapy in preventing removal from the waiting list for death/sickness severity or tumor progression beyond the Milan criteria and in determining posttransplant outcomes. The removal rates for 315 adult patients with HCC who were listed for LT were analyzed and were correlated to responses to bridge therapy with a competing risk analysis. The 3-, 6-, and 12-month dropout rates were 3.5%, 6.5%, and 19.9%, respectively, and they were significantly affected by the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score (P = 0.032), the tumor stage at diagnosis (P = 0.041), and the response to bridge therapy (P < 0.001). The stratification of candidates by the tumor stage and the response to bridge therapy showed that patients with T2 tumors who achieved only a partial response or no response to bridge therapy had the highest dropout rates, and they were followed by patients with successfully down-staged T3-T4a tumors (P = 0.037). Patients with T2 tumors who had a complete response and patients with T1 tumors had similar dropout rates (P = 0.964). The response to bridge therapy significantly affected both the recurrence rate of 176 transplant patients (P = 0.017) and the overall intention-to-treat survival rate (P = 0.001). In conclusion, the response to therapy is a potentially effective tool for prioritizing HCC patients for LT as well as select cases with different risks of tumor recurrence after transplantation.
Impact of Calcineurin Inhibitors With or Without Interferon on Hepatitis C Virus Titers in a Chimeric Mouse Model of Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Kneteman Norman M. , Asthana Sonal , Lewis Jamie , Dibben Chelcey , Douglas Donna , Nourbakhsh Mahra , Tyrrell Lorne J. , Lund Garry
Published: August 2011

Cyclosporine A (CSA) has potent effects against hepatitis C virus (HCV) in vitro, but its clinical efficacy after liver transplantation (LT) is uncertain. We evaluated the impact of CSA and tacrolimus (TAC) with or without concomitant interferon (IFN) therapy on serum HCV titers in a chimeric mouse model of HCV infection. Six groups of HCV-infected mice received only the vehicle, IFN, CSA, CSA and IFN, TAC, or TAC and IFN for 4 weeks. The quantitative HCV polymerase chain reaction levels were determined after 1, 2, and 4 weeks of drug administration. There were no significant differences in the HCV titers after 4 weeks of treatment between the non–IFN-treated groups (log HCV titers: 3.5 ± 0.3 for the vehicle group, 4.4 ± 0.6 for the CSA group, and 4.3 ± 0.4 for the TAC group, P = 0.3). Although IFN had a consistent effect of reducing HCV titers across the groups, there was no significant impact of CSA on HCV levels when it was used alone or in combination with IFN at any time point. The 4-week HCV titers were as follows: 3.2 ± 0.3 for the IFN group, 4.7 ± 0.4 for the CSA/IFN group, and 4.0 ± 0.5 for the TAC/IFN group (P = 0.07). The CSA/IFN and TAC/IFN groups did not differ significantly (P = 0.6). Six of the 7 animals in the IFN group (85.7%) had an HCV titer decline ≥ 1 log, whereas in the test groups (CSA/IFN and TAC/IFN), 6 of 9 animals (66.7%) achieved a 1-log decline in the HCV titer (P = 1). Using this animal model, we could find no evidence supporting the routine use of CSA after LT in HCV-infected patients.
Late-Onset Carbamoyl Phosphate Synthetase 1 Deficiency in an Adult Cured by Liver Transplantation
Authors: Bates Timothy R. , Lewis Barry D. , Burnett John R. , So Kenji , Mitchell Andrew , Delriviere Luc , Jeffrey Gary P.
Published: August 2011

Urea cycle disorders (UCDs) are rare causes of hyperammonemic encephalopathy in adults. Most UCDs present in childhood and, if unrecognized, are rapidly fatal. Affected individuals who survive to adulthood may remain undiagnosed because of clinicians' unawareness of the condition or atypical presentations. We describe the case of a 49-year-old man who initially presented with a stroke and developed hyperammonemic encephalopathy over a period of 8 months. A diagnosis of carbamoyl phosphate synthetase type 1 deficiency was made, and the patient was referred for liver transplantation. One year after liver transplantation, the patient had normal plasma ammonia concentrations and had returned to work. Liver Transpl, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.
Ultrathin and Large‐area Macroporous Polymeric Membranes Formed Through Self‐assembly of Sub‐10 nm Elastic Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Yong , Wang Qian
Published: August 2011

A variety of sub‐10 nm nanoparticles are successfully prepared by crosslinking of polystyrene‐b‐poly(1,3‐butadiene) (PS‐b‐PB) and polystyrene‐b‐poly(4‐vinyl pyridine) (PS‐b‐P4VP) block copolymer micelles and inverse micelles. Among them, the core‐crosslinked PS‐b‐PB micelles can self‐assemble into ultrathin (< 10 nm) macroporous (pore size <1 µm) membranes in a facile way, i.e., by simply drop‐coating the particle solution onto a mica surface. No continuous/porous membranes are produced from shell‐crosslinked PS‐b‐PB micelles and both forms of PS‐b‐P4VP micelles. This suggests that the unique structure of the block copolymer precursor, including the very flexible core‐forming block and the glassy corona‐forming block and the specific block length ratio, directly determines the formation of the macroporous membrane.

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Effects of ΔNp73β on cisplatin treatment in colon cancer cells
Authors: Lööf Jasmine , Pfeifer Daniella , Ding Zhenyu , Sun Xiao‐Feng , Zhang Hong
Published: August 2011

p73 can activate transcription of p53‐responsive genes, thereby inhibiting cell growth. An alternative promoter in the TP73 gene gives rise to an N‐terminally truncated isoform of p73, ΔNp73, which lacks the transactivation domain of the full length TAp73 protein. TAp73 is considered pro‐apoptotic, and ΔNp73 anti‐apoptotic. In this study, we overexpressed ΔNp73β in p53 wild type and p53 mutant colon cancer cell lines and further exposed the cells to cancer therapeutic drug cisplatin. The results showed that cisplatin decreased the protein expression levels of ΔNp73β in a dose‐dependent manner, and both TAp73 and p53 were upregulated after cisplatin treatment. Further, clonogenic potential and cell viability were decreased, and apoptotic cells increased, in p53 mutant and in p53 wild type cells. Cellular viability was significantly higher in ΔNp73β‐cells than mock‐transfected cells. However, ΔNp73β overexpression did not affect the cellular susceptibility to cisplatin. In conclusion, the overexpression of ΔNp73β increases viability in p53 wild type and p53 mutant colon cancer cells, and cisplatin induces the degradation of ΔNp73β in a dose‐dependent manner. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vivo pharmacodynamics of indole‐3‐carbinol in the inhibition of prostate cancer in transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice: Involvement of Nrf2 and cell cycle/apoptosis signaling pathways
Authors: Wu Tien‐Yuan , Saw Constance Lay‐Lay , Khor Tin Oo , Pung Douglas , Boyanapalli Sarandeep S.S. , Kong Ah‐Ng Tong
Published: August 2011

Indole‐3‐carbinol (I3C) found abundantly in crucifers has been shown to possess anti‐cancer effects. The present study aims to examine the chemopreventive effects and the molecular mechanism of I3C, particularly the anti‐oxidative stress pathway regulated by nuclear erythroid related factor 2 (Nrf2). HepG2‐C8‐ARE‐luciferase cells were used for Nrf2‐ARE activity. TRAMP C1 cells were used to investigate the effects of I3C on Nrf2‐mediated genes. To test the chemopreventive efficacy of I3C, transgenic adenocarcinoma of mouse prostate (TRAMP) mice were fed with 1% I3C supplemented diet for 12 or 16 wk. The expression of Nrf2 and its downstream target genes, cell cycle and apoptosis genes were investigated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The protein expressions of these biomarkers were also investigated using Western blotting. I3C induced antioxidant response element (ARE)‐luciferase activity in a dose‐dependent manner. Treatments of TRAMP C1 cells with I3C also resulted in the induction of Nrf2‐mediated genes. I3C significantly suppressed the incidence of palpable tumor and reduced the genitourinary weight in TRAMP mice. Western blots and qPCR analyses of prostate tissues showed that I3C induced the expression of Nrf2, NAD(P)H quinine oxidoreductase 1 (NQO‐1) as well as cell cycle and apoptosis related biomarkers in I3C‐fed TRAMP mice. This study demonstrated that the effectiveness of I3C as prostate cancer chemoprevention agent via up‐regulation of a novel Nrf2‐mediated anti‐oxidative stress pathway. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Precipitation Copolymerization of Vinyl‐imidazole and Vinyl‐pyrrolidone, 2 – Kinetic Model
Authors: Arosio Paolo , Mosconi Matteo , Storti Giuseppe , Banaszak Brian , Hungenberg Klaus‐Dieter , Morbidelli Massimo
Published: August 2011

A mathematical model simulating the precipitation polymerization of vinyl‐imidazole (VI) and vinyl‐pyrrolidone (VP) in organic solvent is developed. Free radical polymerization can occur in two phases: the continuous solvent rich one and the dispersed polymer‐rich one. The relevance of each reaction locus has been identified by comparing the simulation results of a reduced version of the comprehensive model of precipitation polymerization developed in this work to the experimental data of cumulative copolymer composition. It is found that the interphase transport of active chains between the two phases is negligible. Consequently, due to the equilibrium partitioning of monomers and initiator largely in favor of the dispersed phase, the polymer chains are mainly produced in the polymer‐rich phase. Finally, the comprehensive model including the population balance equations for active and dead polymer chains is discussed, which allows describing the complete molecular weight distribution (MWD) of the final product. This way, a further confirmation of the dominance of the precipitated phase as main reaction locus is provided.

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A novel active MR probe using a miniaturized optical link for a 1.5‐T MRI scanner
Authors: Fandrey Stephan , Weiss Steffen , Müller Jörg
Published: August 2011

Applying an active intravascular MR catheter device that allows signal transmission from the catheter tip requires special means to avoid radiofrequency‐induced heating. This article presents a novel, miniaturized all‐optical active MR probe to use with real‐time MRI in minimally invasive interventions for catheter guidance and intravascular imaging. An optical link transmits the received MR signals from the catheter tip to the MR receiver with inherently radiofrequency‐safe optical fibers. Furthermore, power is supplied optically to the transmitter as well. The complete integration into a small tube of 6‐Fr (2‐mm diameter) size with a 7‐Fr (2.33‐mm diameter) rigid tubing was realized using chip components for the optical modulator and a novel miniaturized optical bench fabricated from silicon substrates with 3D self‐aligning structures for fiber integration. In MRI phantom measurements, projection‐based tip tracking and high‐resolution imaging were successfully performed with the optical link inside a 1.5‐T MRI scanner. Images were obtained in a homogeneous phantom liquid, and first pictures were acquired from inside a kiwi that demonstrates the potential of the MR‐safe optical link. The signal‐to‐noise ratio has significantly improved compared with former systems, and it is demonstrated that the novel optical link exhibits a signal‐to‐noise ratio comparable to a direct electrical link. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Robust multipoint water‐fat separation using fat likelihood analysis
Authors: Yu Huanzhou , Reeder Scott B. , Shimakawa Ann , McKenzie Charles A. , Brittain Jean H.
Published: August 2011

Fat suppression is an essential part of routine MRI scanning. Multiecho chemical‐shift based water‐fat separation methods estimate and correct for Bo field inhomogeneity. However, they must contend with the intrinsic challenge of water‐fat ambiguity that can result in water‐fat swapping. This problem arises because the signals from two chemical species, when both are modeled as a single discrete spectral peak, may appear indistinguishable in the presence of Bo off‐resonance. In conventional methods, the water‐fat ambiguity is typically removed by enforcing field map smoothness using region growing based algorithms. In reality, the fat spectrum has multiple spectral peaks. Using this spectral complexity, we introduce a novel concept that identifies water and fat for multiecho acquisitions by exploiting the spectral differences between water and fat. A fat likelihood map is produced to indicate if a pixel is likely to be water‐dominant or fat‐dominant by comparing the fitting residuals of two different signal models. The fat likelihood analysis and field map smoothness provide complementary information, and we designed an algorithm (Fat Likelihood Analysis for Multiecho Signals) to exploit both mechanisms. It is demonstrated in a wide variety of data that the Fat Likelihood Analysis for Multiecho Signals algorithm offers highly robust water‐fat separation for 6‐echo acquisitions, particularly in some previously challenging applications. Magn Reson Med, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
SOX10 mutation with peripheral amyelination and developmental disturbance of axons
Authors: Parthey Kathleen , Kornhuber Malte , Kunze Christian , Wand Dorothea , Nolte Kay W. , Nikolin Stefan , Weis Joachim , Schröder J. Michael
Published: August 2011

In this study we describe a case of a term infant with the neurological variant of Waardenburg syndrome type 4 (i.e., PCWH = peripheral demyelinating neuropathy, central dysmyelinating leukodystrophy, Waardenburg syndrome, and Hirschsprung disease, as defined in OMIM #609136) due to a novel heterozygous base exchange (c.671C>G) in exon 4 of SOX10. Magnetic resonance imaging suggested central myelin deficiency with cerebral and cerebellar hypoplasia. Hirschsprung disease was confirmed by rectal biopsy. Sural nerve biopsy revealed hypoplasia due to amyelination (with the exception of a single, small myelinated fiber) and severe reduction in the number of axons. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Carpal tunnel syndrome: Clinical, electrophysiological, and ultrasonographic ratio after surgery
Authors: Kim Jun Yeon , Yoon Joon Shik , Kim Sei Joo , Won Sun Jae , Jeong Jin Seok
Published: August 2011

Introduction: The aim of this study was to improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and to highlight the ultrasonographic cross‐sectional area (CSA) ratio as a tool for assessing outcomes by investigating postoperative changes. Methods: Twenty‐four individuals with CTS were evaluated using the Boston questionnaire, nerve conduction studies, and ultrasound, preoperatively and at 3 weeks and 3 months postoperatively. Results: Improved symptom scores, decreased CSA, and decreased CSA ratio were observed in the first 3 weeks, but functional improvement was also observed after 3 weeks postoperatively. The ratios between the CSA at the sites of enlargement and unaffected areas correlated significantly with the Padua classification, although the coefficient was not superior to the coefficient of CSA at the maximal swelling site. Conclusions: Symptoms improved more rapidly than function after surgery. Measurement of the ultrasonographic CSA ratio may provide clinicians with a useful assessment tool after surgery. Muscle Nerve, 2012
H‐reflex modulation in the human medial and lateral gastrocnemii during standing and walking
Authors: Makihara Yukiko , Segal Richard L. , Wolpaw Jonathan R. , Thompson Aiko K.
Published: August 2011

Introduction: The soleus H‐reflex is dynamically modulated during walking. However, modulation of the gastrocnemii H‐reflexes has not been studied systematically. Methods: The medial and lateral gastrocnemii (MG and LG) and soleus H‐reflexes were measured during standing and walking in humans. Results: Maximum H‐reflex amplitude was significantly smaller in MG (mean 1.1 mV) or LG (1.1 mV) than in soleus (3.3 mV). Despite these size differences, the reflex amplitudes of the three muscles were positively correlated. The MG and LG H‐reflexes were phase‐ and task‐dependently modulated in ways similar to the soleus H‐reflex. Conclusions: Although there are anatomical and physiological differences between the soleus and gastrocnemii muscles, the reflexes of the three muscles are similarly modulated during walking and between standing and walking. Our findings support the hypothesis that these reflexes are synergistically modulated during walking to facilitate ongoing movement. Muscle Nerve 45: 116–125, 2012
Reliability of a simple method for determining muscle fiber conduction velocity
Authors: McIntosh Kyle C.D. , Gabriel David A.
Published: August 2011

Introduction:

This study evaluated the reliability of muscle fiber conduction velocity (MFCV) measurement.

Methods:

Forty healthy, young participants performed isometric dorsiflexion of the foot on 3 non‐consecutive days. The reliability of force, root‐mean‐square (RMS) amplitude of the surface electromyographic (sEMG) signal, and MFCV were evaluated using the intraclass correlational analysis of variance technique.

Results:

The means across test days for all measures exhibited slight changes (<5%) and were considered stable. All measures exhibited remarkable consistency within subjects as indicated by high intraclass correlation coefficients (0.83–0.98).

Conclusions:

The procedures resulted in highly reliable MFCV values, and included: (1) electric identification of motor points prior to electrode placement; (2) twitch identification of muscle fiber orientation to guide initial electrode placement; (3) rotation of electrodes clockwise or counter‐clockwise to maximize the similarity and delay of compound muscle action potentials across all detection surfaces; and (4) minimization of synergistic activity during voluntary contractions. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Chorea‐acanthocytosis presenting as motor neuron disease
Authors: Neutel Dulce , Miltenberger‐Miltenyi Gabriel , Silva Ines , de Carvalho Mamede
Published: August 2011

Introduction: Chorea‐acanthocytosis (ChAc) is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by involuntary movements, seizures, cognitive changes, myopathy, and axonal neuropathy. Methods: We report a patient who presented with gait impairment and dysarthria. Clinical and neurophysiological assessment disclosed upper and lower motor neuron signs suggestive of motor neuron disease (MND). Results: Later observation of involuntary movements prompted further investigation. Acanthocytes were identified, and the patient's chorein level was low. Genetic studies identified a novel double heterozygous mutation of the chorein gene involving an exon‐stop mutation associated with another mutation that can affect the normal splicing of the RNA. Conclusions: We speculate that this genetic mutation could cause the atypical presentation. ChAc should be included in the differential diagnosis of atypical MND. Muscle Nerve, 2012
Coping strategies in relation to quality of life in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Montel Sébastien , Albertini Laurence , Spitz Elisabeth
Published: August 2011

Introduction:

The aim of this study was to examine the coping strategies of 49 patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and the relationships of these strategies to their perceived health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods:

Forty‐nine subjects were assessed for collection of demographic and medical data. Each one was then asked to complete a questionnaire of coping strategies (Brief COPE) as well as a questionnaire of health‐related duality of life (36‐item Short Form).

Results:

Correlation analysis showed strong relationships between some coping and HRQoL dimensions, including: emotional support and physical functioning (P = 0.01) and emotional role functioning (P = 0.02); venting and mental health (P = 0.04); positive reframing and mental health (P = 0.03); and disengagement and emotional role functioning (P = 0.03).

Conclusions:

The relationships between some coping strategies and certain dimensions of HRQoL are shown. We now understand the usefulness of focusing on coping strategies to improve HRQoL in ALS. Muscle Nerve 45: 131–134, 2012
Mouse intermittent hypoxia mimicking apnoea of prematurity: effects on myelinogenesis and axonal maturation
Authors: Cai Jun , Tuong Chi Minh , Zhang Yiping , Shields Christopher B , Guo Gang , Fu Hui , Gozal David
Published: August 2011

Premature babies are at high risk for both infantile apnoea and long‐term neurobehavioural deficits. Recent studies suggest that diffuse structural changes in brain white matter are a positive predictor of poor cognitive outcomes. Since oligodendrocyte maturation, myelination, axon development, and synapse formation mainly occur in the third trimester of gestation and first postnatal year, infantile apnoea could lead to and/or exaggerate white matter impairments in preterm neonates. Therefore, we investigated oligodendroglia and axon development in a neonatal mouse model of intermittent hypoxia between postnatal days 2 and 10. During critical phases of central nervous system development, intermittent hypoxia induced hypomyelination in the corpus callosum, striatum, fornix, and cerebellum, but not in the pons or spinal cord. Intermittent hypoxia‐elicited alterations in myelin‐forming processes were reflected by decreased expression of myelin proteins, including MBP, PLP, MAG, and CNPase, possibly due to arrested maturation of oligodendrocytes. Ultrastructural abnormalities were apparent in the myelin sheath and axon. Immature oligodendrocytes were more vulnerable to neonatal intermittent hypoxia exposures than developing axons, suggesting that hypomyelination may contribute, at least partially, to axonal deficits. Insufficient neurofilament synthesis with anomalous components of neurofilament subunits, β‐tubulin, and MAP2 isoforms indicated immaturity of axons in intermittent hypoxia‐exposed mouse brains. In addition, down‐regulation of synapsin I, synaptophysin, and Gap‐43 phosphorylation suggested a potential stunt in axonogenesis and synaptogenesis. The region‐selective and complex impairment in brain white matter induced by intermittent hypoxia was further associated with electrophysiological changes that may underlie long‐term neurobehavioural sequelae. Copyright © 2011 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Serious medical complications in children with cancer and fever in chemotherapy‐induced neutropenia: Results of the prospective multicenter SPOG 2003 FN study
Authors: Lüthi Fabienne , Leibundgut Kurt , Niggli Felix K. , Nadal David , Aebi Christoph , Bodmer Nicole , Ammann Roland A.
Published: August 2011

Background

Fever and chemotherapy‐induced neutropenia (FN) is the most frequent potentially lethal complication of therapy in children with cancer. This study aimed to describe serious medical complications (SMC) in children with FN regarding incidence, clinical spectrum, and associated characteristics.

Procedure

Pediatric patients presenting with FN induced by non‐myeloablative chemotherapy were observed in a prospective multicenter study. SMC was defined as potentially life‐threatening complication (PLTC), transfer to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), or death.

Results

A total of 443 FN episodes were reported from 8 centers. Of these, 411 episodes were reported from 4 centers recruiting consecutively and without bias regarding the risk of complications. They were used for calculation of proportions. An SMC was reported in 23 episodes [5.6%; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.7–8.1], usually defined by more than one criterion. These were PLTC in 13 episodes, PICU in 22, and death in 3 (mortality, 0.7%; 95% CI: 0.2–2.1). Both a delayed onset of SMC (14 of 23 episodes, 61%) and a biphasic clinical course (11 of 23, 48%) were frequently observed. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, 4 characteristics were significantly and independently associated with the risk of SMC: diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia, interval since chemotherapy ≤7 days, severely reduced general condition, and hemoglobin ≥9.0 g/dl at presentation.

Conclusions

In children with FN, SMC were rare, and mortality was very low. Those with SMC often had a delayed onset and biphasic clinical course with secondary deterioration. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 59: 90–95. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photo‐induced association behavior of poly(sodium acrylate) bearing a small amount of malachite green
Authors: Kousaka Shouta , Ito Masanori , Yusa Shin‐Ichi
Published: August 2011

The photo‐induced association and dissociation of poly(sodium acrylate) containing a small amount of photoresponsive malachite green (MG) in aqueous solution were studied. It is known that MG dissociates into ion pairs under UV irradiation to produce the green triphenylmethyl cation. The cation thermally recombines with its counter anion to regenerate the colorless neutral compound. The random copolymer of acrylic acid with 0.05 mol % of MG monomer [P(A/MG0.05)] was soluble in aqueous 0.01 M NaCl at pH 12 as a unimer due to electrostatic repulsion between carboxylate pendent groups when the MG moieties were in the neutral form. On the other hand, these MG groups were converted to the cationic form on UV irradiation, leading to polymer aggregation driven by electrostatic interactions between the cationic MG and anionic carboxylate pendent groups. These aggregates could be dissociated by heating in the dark, as the cationic MG reverted to its neutral form, eliminating these attractive electrostatic interactions. The association and dissociation of the copolymer was monitored by dynamic light scattering (DLS). When the salt concentration in aqueous solutions of P(A/MG0.05) was increased from 0.01 to 0.5 M at pH 12, no aggregation was observed on UV irradiation because of ionic screening of the aforementioned electrostatic interactions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Selective synthesis of poly(p‐oxybenzoyl) by fractional polycondensation: Enhancement of selectivity by shearing
Authors: Ichimori Toshimitsu , Yamazaki Shinichi , Kimura Kunio
Published: August 2011

The influence of shear flow, especially the timing for the application of shearing, was examined to enhance the selectivity for the preparation of poly(p‐oxybenzoyl) (Pp‐OB) by using hydrodynamically induced phase separation during polymerization of 4‐(4‐acetoxybenzoyloxy)benzoic acid (p‐ABAD) and m‐acetoxybenzoic acid (m‐ABA). The polymers containing few m‐oxybenzoyl (m‐OB) moieties were obtained as precipitates even at high content of m‐OB moiety in feed (χf) under shear flow. The content of m‐OB moiety in the precipitates (χp) prepared under shearing throughout the polymerization at the shear rate (γ) of 489 s−1 was 6.3 mol % even at χf of 60 mol %. Especially, the Pp‐OB was obtained as the precipitates at χf of less than 50 mol %. The timing of the application of the shearing influenced the selectivity significantly, and the shearing just after the precipitation of the oligomers started was quite efficient to enhance the selectivity more. The χp of the precipitates prepared with shearing at γ of 489 s−1 just after the precipitation was only 3.9 mol % even at χf of 60 mol %. The shear flow reduced the difference in the reactivity between p‐ABAD and m‐ABA, resulting in the decrease in the selectivity with regard to the formation of p‐oxybenzoyl homo‐oligomer. However, the shear flow enhanced the difference in the miscibility between homo‐oligomers and co‐oligomers. This change in the miscibility by shear flow brought about the more rapid precipitation of homo‐oligomers, leading to the enhancement of the selectivity. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2011
Phase behavior of SEBS triblock copolymer gels
Authors: Chantawansri Tanya L. , Duncan Andrew J. , Ilavsky Jan , Stokes Kristoffer K. , Berg Michael C. , Mrozek Randy A. , Lenhart Joseph L. , Beyer Frederick L. , Andzelm Jan W.
Published: August 2011

Dynamic density functional theory calculations were performed for thermoplastic elastomer gels composed of an ABA triblock copolymer immersed in a B‐attractive solvent. The triblock copolymer model was parameterized for poly[styrene‐b‐(ethylene‐co‐butylene)‐b‐styrene] (SEBS), while the solvent model was parameterized for the hydrocarbon oil tetradecane. The effect of the solvent concentration and S‐EB interaction on the morphology was investigated, where complementary experimental data was used to validate results at χABN≈ 100. Agreement was observed at solvent volume fractions of 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6, which correspond to the cylindrical, spherical, and spherical phases, respectively. Qualitative agreement was observed for 0.8 volume fraction solvent, where a core‐shell spherical micelle morphology was found. For a 50/50 vol % mixture of polymer/solvent, the effect of solvent molecular weight on the morphology was considered, where a transition between micro and macrophase separation was predicted at a critical solvent molecular weight. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 49: 1479–1491, 2011
Design of a Microplasma Device for Spatially Localised Plasma Polymerisation
Authors: Al‐Bataineh Sameer A. , Szili Endre J. , Mishra Apurva , Park Sung‐Jin , Eden J. Gary , Griesser Hans J. , Voelcker Nicolas H. , Short Robert D. , Steele David A.
Published: August 2011

There is considerable interest in the spatial control of plasma polymerisation such as to produce sub‐millimetre features with high fidelity, versatility and reproducibility, for example, for arrays or writable specific patterns. This study reports the design of a microcavity plasma device and a method for its fabrication, with the device comprising a single cavity of ≈400 µm diameter. The device can be fabricated within a short time and at low cost in a standard laboratory, with no need for a clean room facility. The device is capable of multiple operations in plasma polymerisation mode. XPS imaging combined with small‐spot ROI analysis showed localised thin film deposition of an acrylic acid plasma polymer with good retention of carboxylate groups from the monomer. The device can be configured with flexibility and addressed for plasma polymer writing of complex patterns.

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Effect of storage temperature as a preanalytical variable on the lens crystallins protein quality for proteomic studies
Authors: Bhattacharjee Soma , Mohanty Sasmita , Sharma Anil P. , Mohanty Bimal P.
Published: August 2011

Purpose: To study the effect of storage temperature on lens crystallins quality for proteomic analysis, using αA‐crystallins as internal marker.

Experimental design: Lenses were stored at −40°C, −10°C and ice for up to 10 days. Protein extracts were prepared from samples stored at −40°C and −10°C on completion of 10 days; for samples kept under ice‐storage, lenses were taken out at every 24 h, extracts prepared and stored. Fresh lens extracts served as the control.

Results: SDS‐PAGE analysis of proteins from lens stored at −40°C and −10°C for 10 days did not show any appreciable change in profiles; however, two protein bands of 27 and 29 kDa disappeared from lens stored in ice. A time‐course analysis showed that such changes in ice‐stored lens occurred beyond six days of storage. Appearance of additional αA‐crystallin fragments on 1‐D and 2‐D immunoblots confirmed degradation of αA‐crystallins. Protein spots altered in abundance and identified by peptide mass fingerprinting include αA‐, αB‐, βB1‐, βB2‐ and γ‐crystallins.

Conclusions and clinical relevance: For proteomic studies, quality of the starting material must be ensured to avoid erroneous and misleading interpretation of results. Under field conditions where deep freezing or immediate preparations of samples are not the options, eye lens can be transported under ice‐storage for about six days without deterioration in protein quality.
Tasquinimod prevents the angiogenic rebound induced by fractionated radiation resulting in an enhanced therapeutic response of prostate cancer xenografts
Authors: Dalrymple Susan L. , Becker Robyn E. , Zhou Haoming , DeWeese Theodore L. , Isaacs John T.
Published: August 2011

BACKGROUND

Tasquinimod is a novel inhibitor of tumor angiogenesis which enhances therapeutic efficacy when combined with androgen ablation and/or taxane‐based chemotherapies in pre‐clinical prostate cancer models. It has entered registration Phase III evaluation for the treatment of castration resistant prostate cancer. Since tasquinimod suppresses the angiogenic switch induced by tumor hypoxia as prostate cancers outgrow their blood supply, this raises the issue of whether tasquinimod also suppresses the angiogenic rebound induced by fractionated radiation thereby enhancing therapeutic response to fractionated radiation.

METHODS

Human endothelial and prostate cancer cells in culture and human prostate cancer xenografts growing in castrated male nude mice were evaluated for their response to radiation alone and in combination with tasquinimod.

RESULTS

At clinically relevant drug levels, tasquinimod significantly (P < 0.05) enhances anti‐cancer efficacy of fractionated radiation with optimal timing for initiating daily tasquinimod treatment being after completion of the fractionated radiation.

CONCLUSIONS

Based upon cell culture studies and tumor tissue oxygenation (i.e., pO2), tumor vascular volume, and tumor blood vessel density measurements, the mechanism for such enhancement and optimal timing involves tasquinimod's ability to prevent the angiogenic rebound induced by fractionated radiation. Prostate 72:638–648, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel physical phenomena in proximity to quantum critical point
Authors: Kaul Sharika Nandan
Published: August 2011

The weakly interacting quasiparticle picture of a Fermi liquid proposed by Landau (the phonon‐mediated electron‐pairing theory of Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer) provided a coherent theoretical basis for understanding how the interactions between electrons affect the low‐temperature properties of metals (metallic superconductors) for the past five decades. However, in recent years, strong departures from the predictions of these theories have been observed in an increasingly large number of systems, particularly in the vicinity of a quantum phase transition (QPT). This paper briefly reviews the current state of research in the areas of the non‐Fermi liquid (NFL) state, spin‐fluctuation‐mediated anisotropic superconductivity, and Bose–Einstein condensation (BEC) of magnons (bosonic quasiparticle excitations) near a quantum critical point (QCP), which is induced by external pressure or doping or nanocrystallite size or magnetic fields.