bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The conversion from sensation to symptom – the case of catarrh, a qualitative study
Authors: Cathcart Russell A , Wilson Janet A , May Carl
Published: September 2011

Objective: There is significant variation in symptom tolerance before seeking healthcare advice and it has recently been postulated that there may be a similar variation in the degree to which individuals tolerate deviations in physiological body sensations before considering them symptoms. This study looked to explore this transition from sensation to symptom more closely using the clinical entity of chronic catarrh – a frequently presenting problem which represents a putative alteration of a physiological process.

Design: Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews.

Participants: 19 adult patients presenting with chronic catarrh, persistent throat clearing or post-nasal drip.

Setting: Secondary care institute in North of England.

Results: Subjects’ accounts revealed three changes in perception of nasopharyngeal mucus that triggered the transition from sensation to symptom: an apparent change in viscosity, quantity, or constancy. Such changes were invariably deemed to have a consequence (threat to wellbeing, social impact, or source of frustration) and invariably drew a response from the sufferer to limit these consequences.

Conclusions: Symptoms representing an aberration of normal body sensations likely develop over time in a series of recognizable phases. Discriminatory markers appear to exist which delineate those body sensations accepted and those considered symptoms. These are discussed with the use of a novel symptom evolution pathway diagram.
Democracy as Justification for Waging War
Authors: Falomir-Pichastor Juan M. , Staerklé Christian , Pereira Andrea , Butera Fabrizio
Published: September 2011

Democracy is positively valued. This positive evaluation extends to a democracy’s actions, even if it is to wage war. The authors investigated whether the perceived legitimacy of military interventions depends on the political structure (democratic vs. nondemocratic) of the countries involved and on the aggressor country’s popular support for the government’s aggressive policy. Participants learned that an alleged country planned to attack another. The political structure of both countries was manipulated in the two experiments. The support of the aggressor’s population toward military intervention was measured in Experiment 1 and manipulated in Experiment 2. Both experiments confirmed that military intervention was perceived as being less illegitimate when the population supported their democratic government’s policy to attack a nondemocratic country.
An Open, Pilot Study of the Understanding Words Reading Intervention Program
Authors: Wright Craig , Conlon Elizabeth G. , Wright Michalle , Dyck Murray H.
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy of a new reading intervention program, Understanding Words, for struggling readers in an open trial design. Twenty-five participants who had poor reading skills and typically had a mix of coexisting developmental disorders completed the 40-hr program over 20 weeks. Significant gains were achieved on measures of word identification, phonological decoding, and reading comprehension. Growth in reading ability per hour of intervention matched the average reported in the literature. Individual analysis showed that 84% of the sample returned to the average range on a measure of phonological decoding and 52% to 56% achieved the same gains in reading comprehension. Limitations of study design and future research directions are also discussed.
Loss of the wild-type allele contributes to myeloid expansion and disease aggressiveness in FLT3/ITD knockin mice
Authors: Li Li , Bailey Emily , Greenblatt Sarah , Huso David , Small Donald
Published: September 2011

Clinical evidence has shown that FLT3 internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutation confers poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia. Loss of the FLT3 wild-type (WT) allele is associated with even worse prognosis. We have previously reported that heterozygous FLT3wt/ITD “knockin” mice develop a slowly fatal myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN). To study the roles of the WT FLT3 and ITD alleles in the development of MPNs, we generated FLT3/ITD homozygous (FLT3ITD/ITD) and hemizygous (FLT3−/ITD) mice. FLT3−/ITD mice, with the loss of WT allele, display a more severe MPN, as evidenced by even larger spleen, higher white blood cell counts, and shorter survival, compared with FLT3wt/ITD mice. Reintroduction of the WT FLT3 allele into FLT3−/ITD BM slowed the progression of MPN in recipient mice. FLT3ITD/ITD mice had an even severe MPN compared with the FLT3−/ITD and FLT3wt/ITD mice. Spontaneous leukemia developed in a small fraction of the FLT3ITD/ITD mice but was never observed in the FLT3−/ITD and FLT3wt/ITD mice. Our results suggest that loss of the WT allele contributes to the development of a more severe phenotype. Thus, the WT FLT3 allele seemingly functions as a tumor suppressor, attenuating the function of the FLT3/ITD allele in leukemia harboring FLT3/ITD mutations.
FcRL4 acts as an adaptive to innate molecular switch dampening BCR signaling and enhancing TLR signaling
Authors: Sohn Hae Won , Krueger Peter D. , Davis Randall S. , Pierce Susan K.
Published: September 2011

Fc receptor–like 4 (FcRL4) is expressed on the surface of a subset of memory B cells (MBCs) located at sites of invading pathogens in mucosal lymphoid tissues in healthy individuals. Recently, FcRL4+ MBCs were shown to be greatly increased in number in the peripheral blood of HIV-infected viremic individuals, in whom they are associated with B-cell exhaustion, and in individuals chronically reinfected with malaria. In the present study, we provide evidence that the expression of FcRL4 in human B-cell lines disrupts immune synapse formation and blocks antigen-induced BCR signaling at the point of Syk phosphorylation, blocking downstream activation of PLC-γ2 and Vav and the induction of calcium responses and CD69 expression. FcRL4 functions by ligation-independent mechanisms that require the 3 tyrosine residues in its cytoplasmic domain and involves its phosphorylation and association with the tyrosine phosphatases SHP-1 and SHP-2. Remarkably, FcRL4 is concentrated in endosomes after treatment with the TLR9 agonist CpG and enhances signaling through TLR9, as measured by increased expression of CD23. These findings suggest that FcRL4 may act as a molecular switch in B cells to dampen adaptive immune signaling and enhance innate signaling in response to chronic antigenic stimulation.
Monitoring specific antibody responses against the hydrophilic domain of the 23 kDa membrane protein of Schistosoma japonicum for early detection of infection in sentinel mice
Authors: Wang Jie , Yu Chuan-Xin , Yin Xu-Ren , Zhang Wei , Qian Chun-Yan , Song Li-Jun , Ke Xue-Dan , Xu Yong-Liang , He Wei , Cao Guo-Qun
Published: September 2011

Background

Schistosomiasis remains an important public health problem throughout tropical and subtropical countries. Humans are infected through contact with water contaminated with schistosome cercariae. Therefore, issuing early warnings on the risk of infection is an important preventive measure against schistosomiasis. Sentinel mice are used to monitor water body infestations, and identifying appropriate antibody responses to schistosome antigens for early detection of infection would help to improve the efficiency of this system. In this study we explored the potential of detecting antibodies to the hydrophilic domain (HD) of the 23-kDa membrane protein (Sj23HD) and soluble egg antigen (SEA) ofSchistosome japonicumfor early detection of schistosome infection in sentinel mice.

Results

Development of IgM and IgG antibody levels against Sj23HD and SEA inS. japonicuminfected mice was evaluated over the course of 42 days post-infection by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunoblotting. The Sj23HD and SEA specific IgM and IgG levels in mice all increased gradually over the course of infection, but IgM and IgG antibodies against Sj23HD presented earlier than those against SEA. Furthermore, the rates of positive antibody responses against Sj23HD were higher than those against SEA in the early stage of schistosome infection, suggesting that the likelihood of detecting early infection using anti-Sj23HD responses would be higher than that with anti-SEA responses. The use of immunoblotting could further improve the early detection of schistosome infection due to its greater sensitivity and specificity compared to ELISA. Additionally, the levels of Sj23HD and SEA specific antibodies positively correlated with the load of cercariae challenge and the duration of schistosome infection.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that antibody responses to the Sj23HD antigen could be monitored for early detection of schistosome infection in mice, especially by immunoblotting which demonstrated greater sensitivity and specificity than ELISA for detection Sj23HD antibodies.
Effects of cadmium on bone microstructure and serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b in male rats
Authors: Chen Xiao , Zhu Guoying , Shao Chunlin , Jin Taiyi , Tan Mingguang , Gu Shuzhu , Zhang Yanyan , Xiao Hanfang
Published: September 2011

This study investigated the effects of cadmium on bone microstructure and serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (Tracp 5b) in male rats. Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into three groups that were given CdCl2 by subcutaneous injection at doses of 0, 0.1 and 0.5 mg/kg body weight (bw) for 12 weeks, respectively. Before killing at the 12th week, microcomputed tomography scanning was performed on the proximal tibia, and urine samples were collected from all of the rats. All rats were then killed, and their blood was collected for biomarkers assay. Bone tissues were dissected for mineral density determinations and histology. The concentration of cadmium in the blood, urine and bone of rats treated with cadmium were significantly higher than in the control group. The bone mineral density, bone mineral concentrations and bone microstructure index of rats treated with cadmium at 0.5 mg/kg bw were clearly lower than in the control rats. Histological investigation also revealed damage to the bone microstructure caused by cadmium. Tracp 5b concentrations in rats treated with cadmium were dose dependently higher than the control. The concentration of cadmium in blood, urine and bone was significantly correlated with Tracp 5b and bone microstructure parameters. Cadmium was shown to induce bone microstructure damage, especially to trabecular bone. The elevated concentrations of serum Tracp 5b suggest that bone resorption mediated via osteoclasts is an important mechanism for the toxic effects of cadmium on bone.
Novel Alkyl Polyglucoside Surfactant Derivatives for Improving the Infiltration of Irrigation Water into Repellent Soil
Authors: Bially Paul T.
Published: September 2011

Soil water repellency causes several agronomic challenges for turfgrass managers, such as reduced color, quality, and playability of golf courses and sports fields. Surfactants are commonly applied as water and soil treatments in order to manage water conservation, irrigation efficiency, and overall plant health. There is an ongoing need within the current sustainability initiatives for advanced materials with superior environmental and performance profiles. This research is the first to demonstrate the efficacy of anionic alkyl polyglucoside esters (AGEs) and AGE-nonionic surfactant blends in increasing the wettability of naturally derived and artificially repellent mineral soils. Surfactant compositions were diluted in distilled water to concentrations ranging from 8000 mg l−1 to 500 mg l−1. A standardized water droplet penetration test was used to measure infiltration times into soils of varying degrees of repellency. AGEs were up to 10 times more effective than alternative surfactants at improving water movement into soil. Performance differences became more significant as the application rates decreased. Our results demonstrate that AGEs can be highly effective at delivering irrigation water and aqueous compositions into the root zone of turfgrass when applied alone and/or in concert with traditional wetting agent classes. Patent applications have been submitted for this discovery.
Incidence of hyperthyroidism in Sweden
Authors: Abraham-Nordling Mirna , Byström Kristina , Törring Ove , Lantz Mikael , Berg Gertrud , Calissendorff Jan , Nyström Helena Filipsson , Jansson Svante , Jörneskog Gun , Karlsson F Anders , Nyström Ernst , Ohrling Hans , Örn Thomas , Hallengren Bengt , Wallin Göran
Published: September 2011

Introduction

The incidence of hyperthyroidism has been reported in various countries to be 23–93/100 000 inhabitants per year. This extended study has evaluated the incidence for ∼40% of the Swedish population of 9 million inhabitants. Sweden is considered to be iodine sufficient country.

Methods

All patients including children, who were newly diagnosed with overt hyperthyroidism in the years 2003–2005, were prospectively registered in a multicenter study. The inclusion criteria are as follows: clinical symptoms and/or signs of hyperthyroidism with plasma TSH concentration below 0.2 mIE/l and increased plasma levels of free/total triiodothyronine and/or free/total thyroxine. Patients with relapse of hyperthyroidism or thyroiditis were not included. The diagnosis of Graves' disease (GD), toxic multinodular goiter (TMNG) and solitary toxic adenoma (STA), smoking, initial treatment, occurrence of thyroid-associated eye symptoms/signs, and demographic data were registered.

Results

A total of 2916 patients were diagnosed withde novohyperthyroidism showing the total incidence of 27.6/100 000 inhabitants per year. The incidence of GD was 21.0/100 000 and toxic nodular goiter (TNG=STA+TMNG) occurred in 692 patients, corresponding to an annual incidence of 6.5/100 000. The incidence was higher in women compared with men (4.2:1). Seventy-five percent of the patients were diagnosed with GD, in whom thyroid-associated eye symptoms/signs occurred during diagnosis in every fifth patient. Geographical differences were observed.

Conclusion

The incidence of hyperthyroidism in Sweden is in a lower range compared with international reports. Seventy-five percent of patients with hyperthyroidism had GD and 20% of them had thyroid-associated eye symptoms/signs during diagnosis. The observed geographical differences require further studies.
Intensive management of electrical storm and incessant ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Zima Endre
Published: September 2011

Electrical storm (ES) is defined as ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation occurring at least three times in 24 h leading to hemodynamic unstable state that needs cardioversion or defibrillation. ES may cause fast hemodynamic impairment, leading to “low-perfusion” or “no perfusion” state of the organs, a vicious circle pointing toward cardiogenic shock, multi-organ failure, and pulseless electrical activity. ES in ICD patients may be a strong predictor of arrhythmic and nonarrhythmic death, as well as of rehospitalization. The first step is to start cardiopulmonary resuscitation to achieve complete hemodynamic stabilization to prevent the low-flow or no-flow state. The patient has to be transported to an intensive care unit for further specific treatment. The arrhythmia should be treated with specific antiarrhythmic agents, for example, amiodarone, lidocain and bretylium, and then all the reversible causes have to be detected and treated as fast as possible. Underlying heart disease determines the specific treatment such as coronary revascularization, mechanical circulatory and respiratory support, and ablation of the arrhythmic foci.
Serotonin and hydroxyindolacetic acid levels in aqueous humor of patients with primary open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Ghanem Asaad A. , Mady Salah M. , Arafa Lamiaa F. , Elewa Ahmed M.
Published: September 2011

Purpose

To investigate the levels of 5-HT (serotonin, 5-hydroxytryptamine) and 5-HIAA (5-hydroxyindolacetic acid) in the aqueous humor and plasma of subjects with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and to correlate their concentrations with the severity of glaucoma.

Methods

Thirty-five patients with POAG and 30 patients with senile cataract (control group) of matched age and gender were included in the study prospectively. Aqueous humor samples were obtained by paracentesis from glaucoma and cataract patients who were undergoing elective surgery. Aqueous humor and corresponding plasma samples were analyzed for 5-HT and 5-HIAA levels by high performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection.

Results

5-HT and 5-HIAA levels were significantly higher in the aqueous humor of POAG patients than in that of the comparative group of cataract patients. There was no significant difference in the 5-HT and 5-HIAA levels in plasma of POAG and cataract patients. A positive correlation was found between 5-HT and 5-HIAA in the aqueous humor of POAG patients. The 5-HT turnover (5-HIAA/5-HT) was higher in POAG than in cataract patients, but the difference was not significant. No significant correlation was found between levels and severity of visual field loss.

Conclusion

Increased levels of 5-HT and 5-HIAA aqueous humor may be associated with POAG.
Ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: Endovascular treatment
Authors: Ukovich Laura , Nikolakopoulos Konstantinos , Biasion Christian , Cera Chiara , Mucelli Fabio Pozzi , Chiarandini Stefano , Adovasio Roberto
Published: September 2011

Aim

The elective endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is nowadays a daily routine practice in selected patients. The traditional treatment of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA) has a peri-operative mortality of 40–50% that has not changed in the last 20 years. Nowadays, the endovascular repair may reduce mortality, hospitalization and sanitary costs.

Methods

The study included 14 patients affected by AAA who came to the Emergency Department because of hemodynamic shock (nine patients) or back pain (five patients). All patients underwent a CT angiography before surgery. Forty-two percent of the patients presented with shock (systolic pressure ≤70 mm Hg) in the operating room, and they underwent an endovascular aortic repair (EVAR) as an emergency procedure. Five bifurcated endoprotesis and nine uniliac protesis making a femoro-femoral bypass to revascularize the excluded limb were made. Patients underwent a follow up with CT angiography one month and then six months after surgery and if no problems were detected, patients underwent a follow-up every year.

Results

Two cases were immediately converted to open surgery because of failed EVAR. Four patients (28%) died after surgery because of multi-organ failure (MOF). The mean hospitalization was 12 days (range 3–21 days). We observed only one case of first-type endoleak at the 1-month follow up and we successfully treated it with a proximal cuff.

Conclusion

In our experience, the intention-to-treat protocol for rAAA offered acceptable results in terms of mortality rates. Multicenter studies are necessary to establish the role of endovascular treatment in patients with rAAA.
Characterization, comparative genomics, and evolutionary inferences of a human drug metabolizing (NAT2) gene
Authors: Khan Naazneen , Pande Veena , Das Aparup
Published: September 2011

Aim

The present-day genetic architecture of a species bears much significance to its closely related species. In recent availability of whole genome sequence data for closely related species, it is possible to detect genetic similarities/differences in specific lineages and infer the role of evolutionary forces in bringing such similarities/differences. In this respect, NAT2 gene, responsible for drug metabolism, is conserved across a few taxa and, thus, comparative genomic studies could be useful for better pharmacogenetic realization.

Methods

DNA sequences of human NAT2 gene were retrieved from NCBI and characterized. Comparative and evolutionary analyses were performed with sequences from four mammalian taxa and one avian taxon with different statistical algorithms.

Results

The observed genetic architecture of NAT2 gene was different across the taxa. Phylogenetic inferences revealed that human and chimpanzee are diverged recently and fowl was found to be diverged from rest of the taxa significantly. Also, gene length, microsatellites, Ka/Ks, secondary structure, and distribution of CpG islands were observed across taxa.

Conclusions

The detail architecture of NAT2 gene and its evolutionary history in different taxa show relationships with other taxa. Future population-based study in NAT2 would unravel the correlation between nucleotide changes and differential ability of drug metabolization in humans.
Radiofrequency ablation of multifocal bilateral renal oncocytomas
Authors: Krokidis Miltiadis , Sabharwal Tarun , Adam Andreas
Published: September 2011

Renal oncocytoma is a usually benign, typically solitary renal tumor, which cannot be reliably distinguished from other renal neoplasms on the basis of its imaging characteristics. Multifocality and/or bilaterality are very rare; to our knowledge only one case of multiple and/or bilateral oncocytomas is reported in the literature and was treated with partial nephrectomy. We report a case of a 72-year-old patient with multifocal and bilateral renal oncocytomas that were treated with radiofrequency ablation.
Atrial flutter in a newborn
Authors: Femitha P. , Joy Rojo , Bharathi B. , Adhisivam B. , Gane B. D. , Vishnu Bhat B. , Balachander J.
Published: September 2011

Fetal and neonatal arrhythmias present as diagnostic and therapeutic challenges to obstetricians and neonatologists. We present a case of antenatally detected atrial flutter in which the infant presented with congestive cardiac failure at birth and a short review of tachyarrhythmias in the perinatal period.
West Nile virus encephalitis in kidney transplanted patient, first case in Hungary: Case report
Authors: Smudla Anikó , Gerlei Zsuzsanna , Gergely Levente , Varga Marina , Toronyi Éva , Doros Attila , Mándli Tamás , Arányi Zsuzsanna , Bán Enikő , Sárváry Enikő , Kóbori László , Fazakas János
Published: September 2011

The complications caused by the rarely viral infections are more frequently treated in ICU (intensive care unit). The world paid attention to the WNV (West Nile virus) infections only in 1999, when 62 meningoencephalitis were registered in New York State. Six cases of WNV occur annually in Hungary. The authors present the first transplanted Hungarian patient with WNV encephalitis. The patient was hospitalized with epigastric pain, diarrhea, continuous fever, and decreasing amount of urine. The first checkup of infectious diseases was without any result. Although using of empirical antimicrobal therapy, the multiorgan failure patient remained febrile. On the basis of clinical signs, meningitis or encephalitis was suspected despite negative results of repeated cultures. On the 8th day, WNV infection was confirmed by serological examinations. With intravenous immunoglobulin therapy used within confines of supportive treatment, the patient became afebrile. After 21 days in ICU with good graft function, the patient was moved to the ward and he left the hospital after two more weeks. Until now, no prophylactic or etiological treatment has been developed for WNV. The early treatment is done with immunoglobulin or interferon; otherwise therapy has only supportive function. The disease caused by virus is more aggressive in transplanted patients and could be caused death.
Potential influence of the pericardial space on myocardial function: Cardiac interactions of adenosine and endothelin-1
Authors: Nagy Andrea
Published: September 2011

Adenosine (ADO) and endothelin-1 (ET-1) play an important role in the regulation of myocardial functions. The pericardial fluid accumulates these regulatory agents and reflects well their levels in the myocardial interstitium. The aim was to investigate the interaction and cardiovascular effects of ADO and ET-1 evoked from the pericardial space, determine the pericardial elimination of intrapericardially applied adenosine and its first metabolite, inosine (INO) and observe their effects on the cardiovascular function compared to their intravenous administration. The present studies were performed on in situ dog heart using the closed pericardium model. Significant increase of the pericardial concentrations of adenine nucleosides (adenosine and inosine) after intrapericardial administration of ET-1 has been found. Regarding the adenine nucleosides-ET-1 interaction, we have demonstrated ET-1 liberation after intrapericardial administration of adenine nucleosides. The present study confirmed significantly slower elimination of adenine nucleosides in the pericardial space than in the systemic circulation. In conclusion, characteristic cardiovascular effect and bidirectional interaction of adenine nucleosides and ET-1 could be provoked by and detected in the pericardial space, reflecting parallel changes in the myocardial interstitium. The low pericardial turnover rate of adenine nucleosides may offer the opportunity of utilizing their multiple beneficial effects for local pharmaco-therapeutic interventions.
Implant-Prosthetic Rehabilitation of a Patient with Nonsyndromic Oligodontia: A Clinical Report
Authors: Ergun Gulfem , Cekic-Nagas Isil
Published: September 2011

Oligodontia is defined as the absence of 6 or more permanent teeth due to the hypodevelopment of tooth germs. This familial abnormality is attributable to various mutations or polymorphisms of genes and associated with malformative syndromes. This clinical report presents the multidisciplinary dental treatment planning for a 27-year-old woman who exhibited oligodontia. After radiographic and clinical evaluations, 7 retained primary teeth and 2 mandibular third molars were extracted. Three dental implants were placed into the maxillary alveolar process. After the osseointegration period, complete-arch fixed prostheses in both maxilla and mandible, supported by a combination of implants and teeth, were fabricated. Osseointegration of the implants, peri-implant mucosa health, and prosthesis function were assessed every 6 months. At the end of the 3-year clinical follow-up, the patient was satisfied with the esthetics, function, and phonation of her prosthesis. To attain the best esthetic and biological results, an interdisciplinary approach could be used to synergistically combine surgery and restorative dentistry for the restoration of maximal esthetics and function.
Gingival Conditioning in an Implant-Supported Prosthesis: A Clinical Report
Authors: Neves Flávio Domingues das , Silveira-Júnior Clébio Domingues , Coró Vitor , Silva-Neto João Paulo , Simamoto-Júnior Paulo Cézar , Prado Célio Jesus do
Published: September 2011

The loss of gingival volume is a major challenge for dental surgeons with implant-supported fixed prosthesis manufactures, particularly from an aesthetics perspective in patients with a high smile line. Gingival tissue remodeling can help in papillae formation to avoid soft tissue surgery by reestablishing the appropriate shape and gingival contour of the tissues. This improves not only the aesthetics, but also the phonetics of the patient. This paper describes a clinical case of gingival conditioning obtained with interim implant-supported fixed partial dentures via incremental addition and adjustment of acrylic resin. The purpose of the gingival conditioning was to obtain improved aesthetics. Gingival conditioning by gradual pressure application is presented as an easy, non-traumatic technique that improves gingival aesthetics.
The Impact of Tuition Increases on Enrollment at Public Colleges and Universities
Authors: Hemelt Steven W. , Marcotte Dave E.
Published: September 2011

In this paper we review recent increases in tuition at public institutions and estimate impacts on enrollment. We use data on all U.S. public 4-year colleges and universities from 1991 to 2006 and illustrate that tuition increased dramatically beginning in the early part of this decade. We examine impacts of such increases on total enrollment and credit hours, and estimate differences by type of institution. We estimate that the average tuition and fee elasticity of total headcount is -0.0958. At the mean, a $100 increase in tuition and fees would lead to a decline in enrollment of about 0.25 percent, with larger effects at Research I universities. We find limited evidence that especially large tuition increases elicit disproportionate enrollment responses.
La prolongation de la vie humaine selon Francis Bacon. Ou : quel Tithon voulons-nous être ?
Authors: Weber Dominique
Published: September 2011

Afin de comprendre avec exactitude la manière dont Francis Bacon envisage la question de la prolongation de la vie humaine, il faut impérativement examiner l’assise théologique de la réflexion du philosophe à ce sujet. Il convient aussi de restituer l’intégration de cette réflexion dans les objectifs plus amples de la philosophie naturelle nouvelle. Enfin, il est nécessaire de comprendre les dimensions proprement morales de la question. Car la prolongation de la vie humaine n’est pas seulement, au sein de la philosophie naturelle nouvelle, un cas parmi d’autres des recherches qu’il faut désormais effectuer : en réalité, c’est elle qui lui donne et qui lui fixe son sens ; avec elle se joue l’effectivité de l’identité espérée entre science et puissance. Mais il faut encore préciser qu’il ne s’agit aucunement pour l’homme de vieillir pour vieillir : il s’agit pour lui de pouvoir vieillir bien. Les leçons que Bacon tire de la fable de Tithon sont ici véritablement décisives.
Stahl et les âges de la vie
Authors: Carvallo Sarah
Published: September 2011

La vieillesse constitue une pierre de touche pour toute théorie médicale : elle oblige à rendre raison de la temporalité à l’œuvre dans la vie. Aux yeux de Stahl, les iatromécaniciens méconnaissent la dimension temporelle de l’organisme ; en particulier, ils en ignorent la périodicité. Comprendre la vieillesse suppose donc la critique de la représentation linéaire du temps organique, que développe la mécanique et qui réduit le vivant au seul composé physique et chimique. Il reste alors à trouver la cause de la périodicité organique : sur ce point, Georg Ernst Stahl critique Thomas Sydenham, qui reconnaît certes la périodicité du vivant mais nie la possibilité d’une médecine étiologique. Pour sa part, le médecin de Halle cherche à rendre compte du vieillissement en lien avec les actions organiques fondamentales : le tonus, la circulation, l’excrétion, la sécrétion.
Synthèse et conclusions sur la gestion durable des zones côtières et marines. Au-delà des discours, des enjeux opérationnels pour le développement durable ?
Authors: Michelot Agnès
Published: September 2011

Le colloque de La Rochelle sur la « Gestion durable des zones côtières et marines : nouveaux discours, nouvelles durabilités, nouvelles frontières » des 10 et 11 juin 2010 permet d’aborder les enjeux du développement durable dans les zones côtières et maritimes. Les contributions de juristes, politistes, biologistes et géographes permettent d’établir une approche croisée du concept de gestion intégrée des zones côtières (GIZC) tournée vers la mer. Au gré des discours, des textes juridiques et de l’évolution des connaissances scientifiques, le concept connaît des adaptations qui ouvrent de nouvelles perspectives pour réaliser les objectifs de gestion durable dans une démarche intégrée responsable et ancrée dans des processus participatifs, à plusieurs échelles d’espaces et de temps. Le colloque de La Rochelle amène à découvrir les nouvelles « frontières » du concept de GIZC, c’est-à-dire ses potentialités, ses applications élargies ou redimensionnées, repensées en convergence avec des exigences décisionnelles et d’intervention garantissant son caractère opérationnel dans un contexte global, national ou local particulièrement évolutif.
Myeloma-Induced Alloreactive T Cells Arising in Myeloma-Infiltrated Bones Include Double-Positive CD8+CD4+ T Cells: Evidence from Myeloma-Bearing Mouse Model
Authors: Freeman Lisa M. , Lam Alfred , Petcu Eugene , Smith Robert , Salajegheh Ali , Diamond Peter , Zannettino Andrew , Evdokiou Andreas , Luff John , Wong Pooi-Fong , Khalil Dalia , Waterhouse Nigel , Vari Frank , Rice Alison M. , Catley Laurence , Hart Derek N. J. , Vuckovic Slavica
Published: September 2011

The graft-versus-myeloma (GVM) effect represents a powerful form of immune attack exerted by alloreactive T cells against multiple myeloma cells, which leads to clinical responses in multiple myeloma transplant recipients. Whether myeloma cells are themselves able to induce alloreactive T cells capable of the GVM effect is not defined. Using adoptive transfer of T naive cells into myeloma-bearing mice (established by transplantation of human RPMI8226-TGL myeloma cells into CD122+ cell-depleted NOD/SCID hosts), we found that myeloma cells induced alloreactive T cells that suppressed myeloma growth and prolonged survival of T cell recipients. Myeloma-induced alloreactive T cells arising in the myeloma-infiltrated bones exerted cytotoxic activity against resident myeloma cells, but limited activity against control myeloma cells obtained from myeloma-bearing mice that did not receive T naive cells. These myeloma-induced alloreactive T cells were derived through multiple CD8+ T cell divisions and enriched in double-positive (DP) T cells coexpressing the CD8αα and CD4 coreceptors. MHC class I expression on myeloma cells and contact with T cells were required for CD8+ T cell divisions and DP-T cell development. DP-T cells present in myeloma-infiltrated bones contained a higher proportion of cells expressing cytotoxic mediators IFN-γ and/or perforin compared with single-positive CD8+ T cells, acquired the capacity to degranulate as measured by CD107 expression, and contributed to an elevated perforin level seen in the myeloma-infiltrated bones. These observations suggest that myeloma-induced alloreactive T cells arising in myeloma-infiltrated bones are enriched with DP-T cells equipped with cytotoxic effector functions that are likely to be involved in the GVM effect.
Do Thyroid Disrupting Chemicals Influence Foetal Development during Pregnancy?
Authors: Hartoft-Nielsen Marie-Louise , Boas Malene , Bliddal Sofie , Rasmussen Åase Krogh , Main Katharina , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla
Published: September 2011

Maternal euthyroidism during pregnancy is crucial for normal development and, in particular, neurodevelopment of the foetus. Up to 3.5 percent of pregnant women suffer from hypothyroidism. Industrial use of various chemicals—endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs)—has been shown to cause almost constant exposure of humans with possible harmful influence on health and hormone regulation. EDCs may affect thyroid hormone homeostasis by different mechanisms, and though the effect of each chemical seems scarce, the added effects may cause inappropriate consequences on, for example, foetal neurodevelopment. This paper focuses on thyroid hormone influence on foetal development in relation to the chemicals suspected of thyroid disrupting properties with possible interactions with maternal thyroid homeostasis. Knowledge of the effects is expected to impact the general debate on the use of these chemicals. However, more studies are needed to elucidate the issue, since human studies are scarce.
Optimization Manufacture of Virus- and Tumor-Specific T Cells
Authors: Lapteva Natalia , Vera Juan F.
Published: September 2011

Althoughex vivoexpanded T cells are currently widely used in pre-clinical and clinical trials, the complexity of manufacture remains a major impediment for broader application. In this review we discuss current protocols for theex vivoexpansion of virus- and tumor-specific T cells and describe our experience in manufacture optimization using a gas-permeable static culture flask (G-Rex). This innovative device has revolutionized the manufacture process by allowing us to increase cell yields while decreasing the frequency of cell manipulation andin vitroculture time. It is now being used in good manufacturing practice (GMP) facilities for clinical cell production in our institution as well as many others in the US and worldwide.
Multiresponse Optimization of Inoculum Conditions for the Production of Amylases and Proteases by Aspergillus awamori in Solid-State Fermentation of Babassu Cake
Authors: Castro Aline Machado de , Teixeira Mariana Martins Pereira , Carvalho Daniele Fernandes , Freire Denise Maria Guimarães , Castilho Leda dos Reis
Published: September 2011

This work aimed at investigating the simultaneous production of amylases and proteases by solid-state fermentation (SSF) of babassu cake using Aspergillus awamori IOC-3914. By means of experimental design techniques and the desirability function, optimum inoculum conditions (C/N ratio of propagation medium, inoculum age, and concentration of inoculum added to SSF medium) for the production of both groups of enzymes were found to be 25.8, 28.4 h, and 9.1 mg g−1, respectively. Significant influence of both initial C/N ratio and inoculum concentration was observed. Optimum amylolytic activities predicted by this multiresponse analysis were validated by independent experiments, thus indicating the efficacy of this approach.
A Review of Enzymatic Transesterification of Microalgal Oil-Based Biodiesel Using Supercritical Technology
Authors: Taher Hanifa , Al-Zuhair Sulaiman , Al-Marzouqi Ali H. , Haik Yousef , Farid Mohammed M.
Published: September 2011

Biodiesel is considered a promising replacement to petroleum-derived diesel. Using oils extracted from agricultural crops competes with their use as food and cannot realistically satisfy the global demand of diesel-fuel requirements. On the other hand, microalgae, which have a much higher oil yield per hectare, compared to oil crops, appear to be a source that has the potential to completely replace fossil diesel. Microalgae oil extraction is a major step in the overall biodiesel production process. Recently, supercritical carbon dioxide (SC-CO2) has been proposed to replace conventional solvent extraction techniques because it is nontoxic, nonhazardous, chemically stable, and inexpensive. It uses environmentally acceptable solvent, which can easily be separated from the products. In addition, the use of SC-CO2as a reaction media has also been proposed to eliminate the inhibition limitations that encounter biodiesel production reaction using immobilized enzyme as a catalyst. Furthermore, using SC-CO2allows easy separation of the product. In this paper, conventional biodiesel production with first generation feedstock, using chemical catalysts and solvent-extraction, is compared to new technologies with an emphasis on using microalgae, immobilized lipase, and SC-CO2as an extraction solvent and reaction media.
Phosphorylcholine Phosphatase: A Peculiar Enzyme of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Domenech Carlos Eduardo , Otero Lisandro Horacio , Beassoni Paola Rita , Lisa Angela Teresita
Published: September 2011

Pseudomonas aeruginosa synthesizes phosphorylcholine phosphatase (PchP) when grown on choline, betaine, dimethylglycine or carnitine. In the presence of Mg2+ or Zn2+, PchP catalyzes the hydrolysis of p-nitrophenylphosphate (p-NPP) or phosphorylcholine (Pcho). The regulation of pchP gene expression is under the control of GbdR and NtrC; dimethylglycine is likely the metabolite directly involved in the induction of PchP. Therefore, the regulation of choline metabolism and consequently PchP synthesis may reflect an adaptive response of P. aeruginosa to environmental conditions. Bioinformatic and biochemistry studies shown that PchP contains two sites for alkylammonium compounds (AACs): one in the catalytic site near the metal ion-phosphoester pocket, and another in an inhibitory site responsible for the binding of the alkylammonium moiety. Both sites could be close to each other and interact through the residues 42E, 43E and 82YYY84. Zn2+ is better activator than Mg2+ at pH 5.0 and it is more effective at alleviating the inhibition produced by the entry of Pcho or different AACs in the inhibitory site. We postulate that Zn2+ induces at pH 5.0 a conformational change in the active center that is communicated to the inhibitory site, producing a compact or closed structure. However, at pH 7.4, this effect is not observed because to the hydrolysis of the [Zn2+L2−1L20(H2O)2] complex, which causes a change from octahedral to tetrahedral in the metal coordination geometry. This enzyme is also present in P. fluorescens, P. putida, P. syringae, and other organisms. We have recently crystallized PchP and solved its structure.
Screening of Supports for the Immobilization of β-Glucosidase
Authors: Figueira Joelise de Alencar , Dias Fernanda Furlan Gonçalves , Sato Hélia Harumi , Fernandes Pedro
Published: September 2011

A set of supports were screened for the immobilization of a partially purified extract of β-glucosidase from Aspergillus sp. These supports, namely, Eupergit, Amberlite, alginate, gelatin, polyvinyl alcohol- (PVA-) based matrices (Lentikats), and sol-gel, have proved effective for the implementation of some other enzyme-based processes. The initial criterion for selection of promising supports prior to further characterization relied on the retention of the catalytic activity following immobilization. Based on such criterion, where immobilization in sol-gel and in Lentikats outmatched the remaining approaches, those two systems were further characterized. Immobilization did not alter the pH/activity profile, whereas the temperature/activity profile was improved when sol-gel support was assayed. Both thermal and pH stability were improved as a result of immobilization. An increase in the apparent KM (Michaelis constant) was observed following immobilization, suggesting diffusion limitations.
A Systematic Review of Serum Biomarkers Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide and Rheumatoid Factor as Tests for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Taylor Peter , Gartemann Juliane , Hsieh Jeanie , Creeden James
Published: September 2011

This systematic review assesses the current status of anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) and rheumatoid factor (RF) tests in the diagnosis and prognosis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We reviewed publications on tests and biomarkers for early diagnosis of RA from English-language MEDLINE-indexed journals and non-MEDLINE-indexed sources. 85 publications were identified and reviewed, including 68 studies from MEDLINE and 17 non-MEDLINE sources. Anti-CCP2 assays provide improved sensitivity over anti-CCP assays and RF, but anti-CCP2 and RF assays in combination demonstrate a positive predictive value (PPV) nearing 100%, greater than the PPV of either of the tests alone. The combination also appears to be able to distinguish between patients whose disease course is expected to be more severe and both tests are incorporated in the 2010 ACR Rheumatoid Arthritis Classification Criteria. While the clinical value of anti-CCP tests has been established, differences in cut-off values, sensitivities and specificities exist between first-, second- and third-generation tests and harmonization efforts are under way. Anti-CCP and RF are clinically valuable biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of RA patients. The combination of the two biomarkers in conjunction with other clinical measures is an important tool for the diagnosis and management of RA patients.
Deletion 2p15–16.1 syndrome: Case report and review
Authors: Prontera Paolo , Bernardini Laura , Stangoni Gabriela , Capalbo Anna , Rogaia Daniela , Romani Rita , Ardisia Carmela , Dallapiccola Bruno , Donti Emilio
Published: September 2011

We report on a 9‐year‐old female patient with facial anomalies and developmental delay, heterozygous for three de novo rearrangements: a paracentric inversion of chromosome 7, an apparently balanced translocation between chromosome 1 and 7, involving the same inverted chromosome 7, detected by standard cytogenetic analysis [46,XX, der(7) inv(7)(q21.1q32.1)t(1;7)(q23q32.1)]; and a 2p16.1 deletion, spanning about 3.5 Mb of genomic DNA, shown by SNP‐array analysis [arr 2p16.1 (56,706,666–60,234,485)x1 dn]. Clinical features and cytogenetic imbalance in our patient were similar to those reported in five published cases, suggesting that this genomic region is prone to recombination and its hemizygosity results in a distinct although variable spectrum of clinical manifestations. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kleefstra syndrome in three adult patients: Further delineation of the behavioral and neurological phenotype shows aspects of a neurodegenerative course
Authors: Verhoeven Willem M.A. , Egger Jos I.M. , Vermeulen Karlijn , van de Warrenburg Bart P.C. , Kleefstra Tjitske
Published: September 2011

Kleefstra syndrome (KS), previously known as the 9q subtelomeric deletion syndrome (9qSTDS) is caused by haploinsufficiency of the EHMT1 gene. Both a single mutation and 9q34 microdeletions encompassing the entire gene can be responsible for this syndrome which is characterized by intellectual disability, hypotonia, and typical dysmorphisms, and may be associated with congenital heart and/or renal defects and epilepsy. Its behavioral phenotype has recently been described and comprises particular sleep disturbances and apathy. In this report, the evolution of the behavioral profile of KS is outlined by the description of three female patients aged 19, 33, and 43 years, respectively. In two patients, the syndrome was caused by an intragenic mutation and in the third by a 9q34 microdeletion encompassing the EHMT1 gene. MRI scanning of the brain in the two eldest patients demonstrated multifocal subcortical signal abnormalities. In general, the severity of the behavioral and motor deficiencies increased over time and became apparent after adolescence. It is concluded that the “regressive” phenotype of KS seems to be associated with the EHMT1 gene in particular. In addition, the utility of uncritical use of a classificatory diagnostic approach is discussed in the context of the motor and motivational disturbances that are prominent in this syndrome. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two sisters resembling Gorlin–Chaudhry–Moss syndrome
Authors: Aravena Teresa , Passalacqua Cristóbal , Pizarro Oscar , Aracena Mariana
Published: September 2011

The Gorlin–Chaudhry–Moss syndrome (GCMS), was describe initially by Gorlin et al. [Gorlin et al. (1960)] in two sisters with craniosynostosis, hypertrichosis, hypoplastic labia majora, dental defects, eye anomalies, patent ductus arteriosus, and normal intelligence. Two other sporadic instances have been documented. Here, we report on two sisters with a condition with some similarities to GCMS as well as some differences, which could represent either previously unreported variability in GCMS, or it may represent a novel disorder. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Eighteen‐year follow‐up of a patient with cobalamin F disease (cblF): Report and review
Authors: Alfadhel Majid , Lillquist Yolanda P. , Davis Cynthia , Junker Anne K. , Stockler‐Ipsiroglu Sylvia
Published: September 2011

Cobalamin F disease (cblF) is a rare disorder of intracellular cobalamin metabolism resulting in failure to thrive, recurrent stomatitis, skin rash, megaloblastic anemia, hypotonia, seizures, and intellectual disability. Data on long‐term outcomes are not available. We report on the outcome of a patient with cblF disease with a frameshift mutation in the LMBRD1 gene after 18 years of intramuscular hydroxycobalamin treatment. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.