bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Costello syndrome with severe cutis laxa and mosaic HRAS G12S mutation
Authors: Girisha Katta M. , Lewis Leslie E. , Phadke Shubha R. , Kutsche Kerstin
Published: October 2010

Costello syndrome is a rare developmental disorder characterized by coarse face, postnatal growth retardation, skin and musculoskeletal anomalies, cardiovascular abnormalities, mental retardation, and tumor predisposition. Dermatological manifestations usually include redundant, soft and thickened skin. Loose skin is especially present over the neck, hands, and feet. Heterozygous missense mutations in HRAS are causative for Costello syndrome, with the c.34G > A (p.G12S) mutation as the most commonly found alteration. In the majority of affected individuals pathogenic sequence changes appeared de novo, however, two individuals with somatic mosaicism for the HRAS mutation have been reported. Here, we describe a boy with somatic mosaicism for the c.34G > A mutation in HRAS. Allelic quantitation revealed the mutation in approximately 58% of his lymphocytes; however, in DNA derived from buccal cells we could not detect the sequence change. The patient presented with the typical clinical findings of Costello syndrome such as increased birth weight, severe failure to thrive, characteristic facial appearance, and skin abnormalities. The dermatological anomalies were remarkable as he showed severe skin laxity with wrinkling of skin on all parts of the body due to loss of subcutaneous fat that decreased significantly by age 13 months. This case further adds to the phenotypic variability seen in patients with somatic mosaicism for an HRAS mutation and highlights the awareness of mosaic mutations in Costello syndrome when molecular testing is performed. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Marfan syndrome with neonatal progeroid syndrome‐like lipodystrophy associated with a novel frameshift mutation at the 3′ terminus of the FBN1‐gene
Authors: Graul‐Neumann Luitgard M. , Kienitz Tina , Robinson Peter N. , Baasanjav Sevjidmaa , Karow Benjamin , Gillessen‐Kaesbach Gabriele , Fahsold Raimund , Schmidt Hartmut , Hoffmann Katrin , Passarge Eberhard
Published: October 2010

We report on a 25‐year‐old woman with pronounced generalized lipodystrophy and a progeroid aspect since birth, who also had Marfan syndrome (MFS; fulfilling the Ghent criteria) with mild skeletal features, dilated aortic bulb, dural ectasia, bilateral subluxation of the lens, and severe myopia in addition to the severe generalized lipodystrophy. She lacked insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia, hepatic steatosis, and diabetes. Mutation analysis in the gene encoding fibrillin 1 (FBN1) revealed a novel de novo heterozygous deletion, c.8155_8156del2 in exon 64. The severe generalized lipodystrophy in this patient with progeroid features has not previously been described in other patients with MFS and FBN1 mutations. We did not find a mutation in genes known to be associated with congenital lipodystrophy (APGAT2, BSCL2, CAV1, PTRF‐CAVIN, PPARG, LMNB2) or with Hutchinson–Gilford progeria (ZMPSTE24, LMNA/C). Other progeria syndromes were considered unlikely because premature greying, hypogonadism, and scleroderma‐like skin disease were not present. Our patient shows striking similarity to two patients who have been published in this journal by O'Neill et al. [O'Neill et al. (2007); Am J Med Genet Part A 143A:1421–1430] with the diagnosis of neonatal progeroid syndrome (NPS). This condition also known as Wiedemann–Rautenstrauch syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by accelerated aging and lipodystrophy from birth, poor postnatal weight gain, and characteristic facial features. The course is usually progressive with early lethality. However this entity seems heterogeneous. We suggest that our patient and the two similar cases described before represent a new entity, a subgroup of MFS with overlapping features to NPS syndrome. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Autism spectrum features in Smith–Magenis syndrome
Authors: Laje Gonzalo , Morse Rebecca , Richter William , Ball Jonathan , Pao Maryland , Smith Ann C.M.
Published: October 2010

Smith–Magenis syndrome (SMS; OMIM 182290) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a well‐defined pattern of anomalies. The majority of cases are due to a common deletion in chromosome 17p11.2 that includes the RAI1 gene. In children with SMS, autistic‐like behaviors and symptoms start to emerge around 18 months of age. This study included 26 individuals (15 females and 11 males), with a confirmed deletion (del 17p11.2). Parents/caregivers were asked to complete the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) and the Social Communication Questionnaire (SCQ) both current and lifetime versions. The results suggest that 90% of the sample had SRS scores consistent with autism spectrum disorders. Moreover, females showed more impairment in total T‐scores (P = 0.02), in the social cognition (P = 0.01) and autistic mannerisms (P = 0.002) subscales. The SCQ scores are consistent to show that a majority of individuals may meet criteria for autism spectrum disorders at some point in their lifetime. These results suggest that SMS needs to be considered in the differential diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders but also that therapeutic interventions for autism are likely to benefit individuals with SMS. The mechanisms by which the deletion of RAI1 and contiguous genes cause psychopathology remain unknown but they provide a solid starting point for further studies of gene–brain–behavior interactions in SMS and autism spectrum disorders. Published 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mouse models of cognitive disabilities in trisomy 21 (Down syndrome)
Authors: Roubertoux Pierre L. , Carlier Michèle
Published: October 2010

Trisomy 21 (TRS21), also referred to as Down syndrome, occurs once in every 800–1,000 live births. It is the consequence of an extra copy of HSA21 that causes an imbalanced gene dose effect. TRS21 is the first known genetic cause of cognitive disability. The syndrome is complex, and includes various cardiac, immune, and bone disorders. Most of these signs are highly variable in expression but cognitive disability is the most constant characteristic of persons with TRS21. The syntenies that exist between HSA21 and three mouse chromosomes (MMU10, MMU16, and MMU17) offer the opportunity for a genotype–phenotype correlation. We present here the segmental trisomies available in the mouse and we discuss their contribution to the brain and cognitive phenotypes of TRS21. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The behavioral phenotype of the idic(15) syndrome
Authors: Battaglia Agatino , Parrini Barbara , Tancredi Raffaella
Published: October 2010

Idic(15) syndrome is a neurogenetic disorder clinically delineated by early central hypotonia, developmental delay and intellectual disability (ID), epilepsy, absent or very poor speech, and autistic or autistic‐like behavior. It is due to the presence of a supernumerary marker chromosome formed by the inverted duplication of proximal chromosome 15, resulting in tetrasomy 15p and partial tetrasomy 15q, and containing the Prader–Willi/Angelman syndrome critical region (PWS/ASCR). The vast majority of these idic(15) derives from the two homologous maternal chromosomes at meiosis. To better define the behavior profile, we studied 22 idic(15) children (15 males and 7 females) observed at our institute between 1986 and 2010, and present, in detail, case studies of five of them. We have been able to perform standardized and semi‐standardized measures of intelligence, and psychopathology in only 13 of our 22 patients, due to the limitations of chronological age, and to the severity of ID (ranging from mild–moderate, in 15%, to severe–profound, in 85% of our sample). The results show a distinct developmental profile in idic(15) patients, that may provide a behavioral signature for autism spectrum disorder (ASD)/ASD‐like arising from the susceptibility locus on proximal 15q; and suggest that idic(15) individuals are not “true autistic,” but distinct “autistic‐like” persons with high score in the third ADOS‐G and ADI‐R area. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A new species of snub‐nosed monkey, genus Rhinopithecus Milne‐Edwards, 1872 (Primates, Colobinae), from northern Kachin state, northeastern Myanmar
Authors: Geissmann Thomas , Lwin Ngwe , Aung Saw Soe , Aung Thet Naing , Aung Zin Myo , Hla Tony Htin , Grindley Mark , Momberg Frank
Published: October 2010

We describe a snub‐nosed monkey that is new to science from the high altitudes of northeastern Kachin state, northeastern Myanmar, the Burmese snub‐nosed monkey, Rhinopithecus strykeri sp. nov. Descriptions are based on a skin and skulls of four specimens obtained from local hunters. The new species is geographically isolated from other snub‐nosed monkeys and separated from them by two major barriers—the Mekong and the Salween (Thanlwin) rivers. The species is chiefly diagnosed by its almost entirely blackish fur coloration with white fur only on ear tufts, chin beard, and perineal area, and its relatively long tail (140% of head and body length in the adult male). Preliminary surveys and interviews with hunters indicate that the new species is limited in distribution to the Maw River area, a small region of the Salween‐N'mai Hka divide in northeastern Kachin state, northeastern Myanmar. The distribution area appears to cover about 270 km2, and the species may consist of only three groups with a total population of approximately 260–330 individuals. Our data on hunting pressure suggest that the species is Critically Endangered. Am. J. Primatol. 73:96–107, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of intraperitoneal local anaesthetic for pain reduction after laparoscopic gastric procedures
Authors: Kahokehr A , Sammour T , Srinivasa S , Hill A G
Published: October 2010

Background

With the advent of minimally invasive gastric surgery, visceral nociception has become an important area of investigation as a potential cause of postoperative pain. A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out to investigate the clinical effects of intraperitoneal local anaesthetic (IPLA) in laparoscopic gastric procedures.

Methods

Comprehensive searches were conducted independently without language restriction. Studies were identified from the following databases from inception to February 2010: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase and CINAHL. Relevant meeting abstracts and reference lists were searched manually. Appropriate methodology according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement was adhered to.

Results

Five randomized controlled trials in laparoscopic gastric procedures were identified for review. There was no significant heterogeneity between the trials (χ2 = 10·27, 10 d.f., P = 0·42, I2 = 3 per cent). Based on meta-analysis of trials, there appeared to be reduced abdominal pain intensity (overall mean difference in pain score − 1·64, 95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) − 2·09 to − 1·19; P < 0·001), incidence of shoulder tip pain (overall odds ratio 0·15, 95 per cent c.i. 0·05 to 0·44; P < 0·001) and opioid use (overall mean difference − 3·23, − 4·81 to − 1·66; P < 0·001).

Conclusion

There is evidence in favour of IPLA in laparoscopic gastric procedures for reduction of abdominal pain intensity, incidence of shoulder pain and postoperative opioid consumption.
Mouse granulosa cells contribute more to the mRNA synthesis of mZP2 than oocyte does
Authors: Xie Yan , Yu Yanhong , Nie Chuncheng , Cao Zuowu
Published: October 2010

In order to elucidate the biogenesis of mouse zona pellucida 2 (mZP2) protein, RT‐PCR, and in situ hybridization were carried out to localize the expression of mouse ZP2 mRNA. Cumulus cells of the OCC (Oocyte‐Cumulus cell Complex) were isolated from the oocytes after superovulation for the RNA extraction. The frozen sections of ovaries from adolescent and aged mice were prepared to hybridize with RNA probe of mouse ZP2. mRNA of ZP2 was detected in isolated cumulus cells by RT‐PCR. Results of in situ hybridization showed that the mRNA of ZP2 was synthesized in both oocyte and granulosa cells at different folliculogenesis stages; and the expression of ZP2 mRNA in granulosa cells was stronger than that in oocyte; much weaker expression of mZP2 was detected in the follicles of aged mouse. These suggest that the entire amount of ZP2 mRNA generated in the granulosa cells layer should be much more than that in oocyte. Therefore, we think that the granulosa cells contribute more to the mZP2 mRNA synthesis than oocyte does. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Fluorescence Selection Method for Accurate Large‐Gene Synthesis
Authors: Kim Hwangbeom , Han Hyojun , Shin Dongyun , Bang Duhee
Published: October 2010

The fundamental problem for low‐cost gene synthesis is errors that occur during the synthetic process. To address this problem, we developed a practical method that exploits the fact that the predominant errors are deletions. In this method, a simple fluorescence‐based readout was used to distinguish error‐free synthetic DNA molecules. To do this, we constructed vectors that contained multiple cloning sites and GFP. In the vectors, the GFP gene is designed to be out‐of‐frame, but insertion of an in‐framed synthetic DNA construct into the appropriate cloning site will lead to fluorescent cell colonies. We successfully used this method to synthesize five genes and improved the bp per error from 629 to 6552 by selecting green fluorescent colonies.
Semiparametric median residual life model and inference
Authors: Ma Yanyuan , Yin Guosheng
Published: October 2010

For randomly censored data, the authors propose a general class of semiparametric median residual life models. They incorporate covariates in a generalized linear form while leaving the baseline median residual life function completely unspecified. Despite the non‐identifiability of the survival function for a given median residual life function, a simple and natural procedure is proposed to estimate the regression parameters and the baseline median residual life function. The authors derive the asymptotic properties for the estimators, and demonstrate the numerical performance of the proposed method through simulation studies. The median residual life model can be easily generalized to model other quantiles, and the estimation method can also be applied to the mean residual life model.The Canadian Journal of Statistics38: 665–679; 2010 © 2010 Statistical Society of Canada
Prognostic Value of Different Laboratory Measures of Renal Function for Long‐Term Mortality After Contrast Media‐Associated Renal Impairment
Authors: Heitmeyer Christine , Hölscher Birgit , Fobker Manfred , Breithardt Günter , Hausberg Martin , Reinecke Holger
Published: October 2010

Background: Contrast media‐induced nephropathy (CIN) is associated with markedly increased morbidity and mortality. Although creatinine is at present routinely used to characterize renal function, many studies and guidelines recommend using the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) since it was found to be much more accurate.

Hypothesis: To assess whether the eGFR or creatinine alone provided a better predictive value for long‐term mortality after contrast media‐associated renal impairment.

Methods: From a prospective trial with 412 patients undergoing heart catheterization, creatinine and eGFR before and after 24 h, 48–72 h, and 30 d after contrast‐media exposure were assessed as well as long‐term mortality.

Results: Univariate Cox regression models identified increases in creatinine after 48 h (hazard rate ratio [HRR] 1.754, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.134–2.712) and 30 d (HRR 3.157, 95% CI 1.968–5.064) as well as decreases in eGFR after 30 d (HRR 0.962, 95% CI 0.939–0.986) to be significant predictors of long‐term mortality. However, by multivariable Cox regression, only increases in creatinine after 48 h (HRR 1.608, 95% CI 1.002–2.581) and after 30 d (HRR 2.685, 95% CI 1.598–4.511) turned out to be significant and independent predictors of mortality. With regard to a possibly critical threshold of creatinine increase, our data confirmed the historically grown increase in creatinine of 0.5 mg/dl or more during the first 48 h as being associated with increased mortality (p = 0.016, log rank test).

Conclusions: Serum creatinine, but not eGFR, was predictive for long‐term mortality, with a threshold of 0.5 mg/dl or more indicating worse prognosis. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Supported by an unrestricted research grant from Schering AG, Berlin, Germany.
Developmental pharmacology
Authors: van den Anker Johannes N.
Published: October 2010

Understanding the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs used in psychopharmacology across the pediatric age spectrum from infants to adolescents represents a major challenge for clinicians. In pediatrics, treatment protocols use either standard dose reductions for these drugs for children below a certain age or use less conventional parameters such as weight for allometric dosing. The rationale behind this, however, is often lacking. In this review current available data on the developmental changes in absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of drugs are presented with a specific focus on metabolic pathways, indicating significant differences in the development of enzymes involved in the biotransformation of drugs used in psychopharmacology. Major emphasis will be given to the genetic variation in CYP2D6 activity, the most important enzyme for the metabolism of many psychotropic medications. Finally, this review will summarize the role of the developmental pharmacologist in ensuring rational use of drugs in children with developmental disabilities and in translating pharmacological concepts from the bench to the clinic. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Dev Disabil Res Rev 2010;16:233–238.
Alone in the dark? Modeling the conditions for visual experience in human fetuses
Authors: Del Giudice Marco
Published: October 2010

It is commonly assumed that, whereas auditory and olfactory learning take place already during fetal development, visual experience and learning are not possible before birth. This paper explores the conditions for visual experience in the last two months of human gestation, when the fetal visual system is mature enough to permit directed vision if a sufficient amount of light is available. Light transmission from the external environment to the uterine cavity is modeled, based on the measured transmission coefficients of biological tissues. Results indicate that illumination in the uterine cavity is highly variable, depending on factors such as external illumination and the mother's abdominal thickness. At least some fetuses can be predicted to develop in conditions allowing for ample visual experience before birth. This finding could have intriguing implications for the ontogeny of early visuo‐motor abilities in newborns and infants. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Dev Psychobiol 53:214–219, 2011
TLR5 functions as an endocytic receptor to enhance flagellin‐specific adaptive immunity
Authors: Letran Shirdi E. , Lee Seung‐Joo , Atif Shaikh M. , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , McSorley Stephen J.
Published: October 2010

Innate immune activation via TLR induces dendritic cell maturation and secretion of inflammatory mediators, generating favorable conditions for naïve T‐cell activation. Here, we demonstrate a previously unknown function for TLR5, namely that it enhances MHC class‐II presentation of flagellin epitopes to CD4+ T cells and is required for induction of robust flagellin‐specific adaptive immune responses. Flagellin‐specific CD4+ T cells expanded poorly in TLR5‐deficient mice immunized with flagellin, a deficiency that persisted even when additional TLR agonists were provided. Flagellin‐specific IgG responses were similarly depressed in the absence of TLR5. In marked contrast, TLR5‐deficient mice developed robust flagellin‐specific T‐cell responses when immunized with processed flagellin peptide. Surprisingly, the adaptor molecule Myd88 was not required for robust CD4+ T‐cell responses to flagellin, indicating that TLR5 enhances flagellin‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses in the absence of conventional TLR signaling. A requirement for TLR5 in generating flagellin‐specific CD4+ T‐cell activation was also observed when using an in vitro dendritic cell culture system. Together, these data uncover an Myd88‐independent function for dendritic cell TLR5 in enhancing the presentation of peptides to flagellin‐specific CD4+ T cells.
Distortional Isomerism in Copper(II) Nitrato Complexes of N,N′,N″‐Tris{[(para‐nitrobenzyl)phenyl]aminoethyl}amine
Authors: Almesåker Ann , Gamez Patrick , Scott Janet L. , Teat Simon J. , Reedijk Jan , Spiccia Leone
Published: October 2010

The tris(aminoethyl)amine derivative tris{[(para‐nitrobenzyl)phenyl]aminoethyl}amine [(p‐NO2BP)3tren] was reacted with copper(II) nitrate in thf to yield three different solvates of [Cu(p‐NO2BP)3trenNO3]NO3 (C1) in the solid state, namely α‐C1·2thf (C2), β‐C1·2.5thf (C3) and α‐C1·(thf)1.5·(iPr2O)0.25 (C4). The light green‐yellow coloured complexes, C2 and C4, are different solvates of the one distortion isomer, while the dark‐green C3 is a different distortion isomer. The spectral properties of these distortion isomers were examined, and the structures of C3 and C4 were determined by X‐ray crystallography. The difference in the physical properties (EPR and reflectance electronic spectra) of the light and dark green solids of C1 (α‐C1·2thf and β‐C1·2.5thf) can be attributed to a change in the coordination mode of the ligand to the CuII centre. While the coordination sphere and orientation of the donor atoms in C3 and C4 are similar and the axial Cu–N and Cu–O distances identical, their equatorial bond lengths [Cu(1)–Neq] differ significantly. Compound C4 was found to have a more uniform distribution of Cu(1)–Neq bond lengths [2.166(3)–2.232(3) Å] than C3 [2.077(3)–2.352(3) Å], one Cu–Neq distance being unusually long, when compared with similar bonds in a range of copper(II) complexes of tren derivatives.
CLA TAG rich in cis‐9,trans‐11‐CLA is stable beyond 2 years of proper storage
Authors: Jaudszus Anke , Kuhnt Katrin , Rohrer Carsten , Jahreis Gerhard
Published: October 2010

We analyzed a triacylgylcerol esterified CLA preparation characteristically rich in c9,t11‐CLA and free of t10,c12‐CLA three times within a period of 2${1 \over 2}$ years by GC and silver ion‐HPLC. For the first time, we present data on the long‐term stability of this preparation with regard to the fatty acid profile and the isomeric composition of CLA under certain storage conditions, providing useful information for the planning of long‐term trials.
Chiral Primary Amine Catalyzed Asymmetric Epoxidation of α‐Substituted Acroleins
Authors: Li Jiuyuan , Fu Niankai , Zhang Long , Zhou Pengxin , Luo Sanzhong , Cheng Jin‐Pei
Published: October 2010

1,1‐Disubstituted terminal alkenes remain challenging substrates in asymmetric epoxidation reactions. In this study, chiral primary amines are shown to catalyze the asymmetric epoxidation of α‐substituted acroleins, a versatile type of 1,1‐disubstituted terminal alkene. Among various chiral primary amines explored, the chiral primary‐tertiary vicinal diamine derived from trans‐1,2‐diphenylethane‐1,2‐diamine is identified as the optimal catalyst, which, in combination with 5‐sulfosalicyclic acid (5‐SSA), exhibits good catalytic activity (up to 95 % yield) and enantioselectivity (up to 88 % ee). Aqueous 2 M sodium chloride was found to be the optimal reaction media.
A Short, Catalytic, Asymmetric Synthesis of Diospongins A and B by a One‐Pot, Sequential Hetero‐Diels–Alder/Mukaiyama–Michael Reaction Process
Authors: Anada Masahiro , Washio Takuya , Watanabe Yudai , Takeda Koji , Hashimoto Shunichi
Published: October 2010

A new route to the diarylheptanoid diospongins A and B was developed. The key step is a novel, one‐pot, sequential dirhodium(II) tetrakis[(S)‐3‐(benzo‐fused phthalimido)‐2‐piperidinonate] [Rh2(S‐BPTPI)4] catalyzed enantioselective hetero‐Diels–Alder/TMSOTf‐catalyzed Mukaiyama–Michael reaction process. The sign of the optical rotation of natural diospongin B was determined to be (+) and not (–) as was originally reported.
An Amperometric Immunosensor for IgG Based on Conducting Polymer and Carbon Nanotube‐Linked Hydrazine Label
Authors: Zhu Ye , Koh Wei Choon Alvin , Shim Yoon‐Bo
Published: October 2010

An amperometric immunosensor for IgG was developed by covalently immobilizing anti‐IgG on multiwall carbon nanotube‐embedded conducting polymer, poly‐5,2′ : 5′′,2′′‐terthiophene‐3′‐carboxylic acid (MWCNT/pTTCA). The MWCNT/pTTCA modified electrode was characterized by SEM, EIS, and XPS. A hydrazine‐labeled secondary antibody‐MWCNT conjugate (Hyd‐MWCNT‐Ab2) was applied for detection. Hydrazine was used as a catalyst for the reduction of hydrogen peroxide, which was monitored at −0.3 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The calibration plots showed a linear range of 0.1–10 ng/mL with a detection limit of 0.084±0.004 ng/mL. The proposed immunosensor was evaluated for clinical applications in a rabbit serum sample.
Endotracheal temperature and humidity in laryngectomized patients in a warm and dry environment and the effect of a heat and moisture exchanger
Authors: Scheenstra Renske J. , Muller Sara H. , Hilgers Frans J. M.
Published: October 2010

Background

This study was designed to assess endotracheal climate in laryngectomized patients in a warm and dry environment and the effects of a heat and moisture exchanger (HME).

Methods

Endotracheal temperature and humidity were measured in 11 laryngectomized patients with a regularly used HME (Provox Normal HME; R‐HME), an HME with antimicrobial filter (Provox Micron HME; F‐HME), and without HME (open stoma). Measurements were performed at 32°C, 34°C, and 38°C (<25% relative humidity).

Results

Both R‐HME and F‐HME increased end‐inspiratory humidity (AHinsp) equally (range, 3.4 to 5.6 mgH2O/L). The R‐HME has a cooling effect on end‐inspiratory temperature (Tinsp), which is similar for all tested environmental conditions (−3.8°C); F‐HME decreases Tinsp less (range, −1.3 to −0.6°C).

Conclusions

In a warm and dry environment, both R‐ and F‐HME significantly cool and humidify inspired air. Therefore, consistent use of an HME under these climate conditions is also probably clinically beneficial. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Hepatitis C pharmacogenetics: State of the art in 2010
Authors: Afdhal Nezam H. , McHutchison John G. , Zeuzem Stefan , Mangia Alessandra , Pawlotsky Jean-Michel , Murray Jeffrey S. , Shianna Kevin V. , Tanaka Yasuhito , Thomas David L. , Booth David R. , Goldstein David B.
Published: October 2010

In 2009, a correlated set of polymorphisms in the region of the interleukin-28B (

IL28B

) gene were associated with clearance of genotype 1 hepatitis C virus (HCV) in patients treated with pegylated interferon-alfa and ribavirin. The same polymorphisms were subsequently associated with spontaneous clearance of HCV in untreated patients. The link between

IL28B

genotype and HCV clearance may impact decisions regarding initiation of current therapy, the design and interpretation of clinical studies, the economics of treatment, and the process of regulatory approval for new anti-HCV therapeutic agents. (Hepatology 2011)
‘Health transformation programme’ in Turkey: an assessment
Authors: Yasar Gulbiye Yenimahalleli
Published: October 2010

The aim of this study is to assess the ‘Health Transformation Programme’ (HTP) in Turkey announced in 2003. This assessment has been made according to the ultimate performance goals of a health care system, such as improvement in health status, financial risk protection and satisfaction with health care.

This study provides a brief history of health policy since 1980, when the Turkish health care system began to transform with the introduction of both structural adjustment and market‐oriented reform policy. The main aim of these reforms was increasing efficiency. Reform proposals of the 1990s focused on the introduction of a general health insurance (GHI) system, decentralization, introduction of a family medicine scheme, purchaser‐provider split, contracting‐out, quasi‐markets and improvement of management information systems.

Like the reform proposals of the 1990s, HTP has eight components, the major ones being a new role for the Ministry of Health (MoH), introduction of a GHI system, reorganization of health service delivery and human resources development. No component of HTP has yet been sufficiently realized. Therefore, despite some improvements, Turkish people continue to face low health status and a low level of financial risk protection. More research needs to be done for the determination of satisfaction with health services. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular characterization of heat shock protein 70 genes in the liver of three warm freshwater fishes with differential tolerance to microcystin‐LR
Authors: He Shan , Liang Xu‐Fang , Li Ren‐Qiang , Li Guan‐Gui , Wang Lin , Shen Dan
Published: October 2010

Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) protect cell from oxidative stress by preventing the irreversible loss of vital proteins and facilitating their subsequent regeneration. Silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys molitrix), grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus), and Nile tilapia (Oreochromis nilotica) are three warm freshwater fishes with differential tolerance to microcystin‐LR (MC‐LR). Full‐length cDNAs encoding the HSP70 were cloned from the livers of the three fishes. The HSP70 cDNAs of silver carp, grass carp, and Nile tilapia were 2356, 2348, and 2242 bp in length and contained an open‐reading frame of 1950 bp (encoding a polypeptide of 649 amino acids), 1950 bp (649 amino acids), and 1917 bp (638 amino acids), respectively. Like mammalian HSP70, the HSP70 of the three fish was also composed of an ATPase domain from residues 1 to 383 (44 kDa), substrate peptide binding domain from residues 384 to 544 (18 kDa), and a C‐terminus domain from residues 545 to 649 (10 kDa). The relatively high conservation of HSP70 sequences among different vertebrates is consistent with their important role in fundamental cellular processes. Using beta‐actin as an external control, RT‐PCR within the exponential phase was conducted to determine the constitutive and inducible expression level of HSP70 gene among the three fishes (6–12 g) intraperitoneally injected with MC‐LR (50 μg kg−1 body weight). Both constitutive and inducible liver mRNA levels of the fish HSP70 genes showed positive relationships with their tolerance to MC‐LR: highest in Nile tilapia, followed by silver carp, and lowest in grass carp. The differential expression pattern of liver HSP70 genes in the three fish indicated a potential role of HSP70 in the detoxification process of MC‐LR. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 24:293–302, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.20338
Protective effects of combination of quercetin and α‐tocopherol on mitochondrial dysfunction and myocardial infarct size in isoproterenol‐treated myocardial infarcted rats: Biochemical, transmission electron microscopic, and macroscopic enzyme mapping evidences
Authors: Punithavathi V. R. , Stanely Mainzen Prince P.
Published: October 2010

Mitochondrial dysfunction plays an important role in the pathology of myocardial infarction. We evaluated the combined protective effects of quercetin and α‐tocopherol on mitochondrial damage and myocardial infarct size in isoproterenol‐induced myocardia‐ infarcted rats. Rats were pretreated with quercetin (10 mg/kg) alone, α‐tocopherol (10 mg/kg) alone, and combination of quercetin (10 mg/kg) and α‐tocopherol (10 mg/kg) orally using an intragastric tube daily for 14 days. After pretreatment, rats were induced myocardial infarction by isoproterenol (100 mg/kg) at an interval of 24 h for 2 days. Isoproterenol treatment caused significant increase in mitochondrial lipid peroxides with significant decrease in mitochondrial antioxidants. Significant decrease in the activities of isocitrate, succinate, malate, and α‐ketoglutarate and NADH dehydrogenases and cytochrome‐c‐oxidase, significant increase in calcium, and significant decrease in adenosine triphosphate were observed in mitochondria of myocardial infarcted rats. Combined pretreatment with quercetin and α‐tocopherol normalized all the biochemical parameters and preserved the integrity of heart tissue and restored normal mitochondrial function in myocardial‐infarcted rats. Transmission electron microscopic findings on heart mitochondria and macroscopic enzyme mapping assay on the size of myocardial infarct also correlated with these biochemical parameters. The present study showed that combined pretreatment was highly effective than single pretreatment. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 24:303–312, 2010; View this article online at wileyonlinelibrary.com. DOI 10.1002/jbt.20339
Efficient separation of (R)‐(‐)‐mandelic acid biosynthesized from (R,S)‐mandelonitrile by nitrilase using ion‐exchange process
Authors: Xue Ya‐Ping , Liu Zhi‐Qiang , Xu Ming , Wang Ya‐Jun , Zheng Yu‐Guo
Published: October 2010

BACKGROUND: (R)‐(‐)‐Mandelic acid (R‐MA) is an important intermediate and chiral regent with broad uses. An efficient method for the separation of R‐MA from the bioreaction mixture with high yield is of great importance, thus, the main objective of this work is to investigate the recovery of R‐MA using an ion‐exchange process.

RESULTS: The equilibrium isotherms for the separation of R‐MA by resin HZ202 were obtained in the pH range 5.0–9.0 and temperature range 25–35 °C. The equilibrium data are well fitted by the Langmuir isotherm. Batch kinetic experiments showed that the mobility of R‐MA− in solution was rapid and the R‐MA−/OH− ion‐exchange process reached equilibrium after about 60 min. Adsorption kinetics were analyzed by a linear driving force mass‐transfer model, yielding good prediction of the kinetic behavior. In fixed bed column experiments, the breakthrough curves of R‐MA from the solution on resin HZ202 were determined at different flow rates and R‐MA was eluted with different concentrations of HCl. A favorable breakthrough curve and optimal eluant concentration were obtained. The results were used for the separation of R‐MA biosynthesized from (R,S)‐mandelonitrile with nitrilase, and separation was successfully achieved with above 90% recovery yield.

CONCLUSION: Resin HZ202 presents favorable behavior for the recovery of R‐MA, in terms of capacity, kinetics, affinity, and susceptibility to regeneration. The results of this study provide an efficient method for R‐MA recovery from bioreaction mixture and could potentially be used in industry. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Reactivation of epstein–barr virus in B cells of patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Shimozuma Yuu , Ito Takayoshi , Inokuchi Momoko , Uchikoshi Manabu , Miyashita Miyuki , Nozawa Hisako , Shimazaki Tomoe , Hiroishi Kazumasa , Imawari Michio
Published: October 2010

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is associated with lymphoproliferative disorders. HCV infection of B cells is a predictive factor for lymphoproliferative disorders in patients with chronic hepatitis C, although its molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) is a B cell‐tropic virus with the potential to cause lymphoproliferative disorders, and its reactivation is induced by several viruses and cytokines. The possibility that HCV infection triggers reactivation of EBV and induces lymphoproliferative disorders were investigated. Expression of EBV mRNAs was analyzed by RT‐PCR in patients infected with HCV and control subjects, and correlations between reactivation of EBV and markers for lymphoproliferative disorders were investigated. BZLF1 mRNA, a starter molecule of reactivation, was detected in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from 12 of 52 (23%), patients infected with HCV and the frequency was higher than in healthy subjects [3 of 43 (9%), P = 0.032]. But the presence of the BZLF1 mRNA was not associated with an abnormality of markers for lymphoproliferative disorders. This study on BZLF1 mRNA expression among lymphoid cell subsets showed that reactivation of EBV was observed specifically in B cells. The BZLF1 mRNA disappeared following anti‐viral therapy and remained negative after eradication of HCV in patients with a sustained viral response, while the EBER1 RNA, a marker for persistence of EBV, was detected throughout the therapy. Infection with HCV induces reactivation of EBV in B cells, but this reactivation was not associated directly with lymphoproliferative disorders triggered by HCV. J. Med. Virol. 82:2064–2072, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular epidemiology of human astrovirus infections in Saudi Arabia pediatric patients
Authors: Tayeb Hamsa T. , Al‐Ahdal Mohammed N. , Cartear Micheal J. , Al‐Qahtani Ahmade A. , Cruz Damian M. Dela
Published: October 2010

Earlier work Tayeb et al. [Tayeb et al. (2008): J Med Virol 80: 1919–1929] set out to study the epidemiology of diarrhea viruses in pediatric populations. The study addressed initially rotavirus, enteric adenovirus, and astrovirus but was later expanded to include norovirus (NoV). Viruses were sought in fecal specimens and characterized for genotype using molecular methods (PCR, RT‐PCR, and RFLP) for the first time in KSA. The survey focused on three locations; Jeddah, Makkah, and Riyadh. During the Hajj, the chief population fluxes are via Jeddah to Makkah. One thousand samples were obtained from children (aged 6 years or less) presenting with diarrhea and thus representing community acquired rather than nosocomial infections. Rotavirus was identified in 6% of the samples followed by NoV accounted for 3.5%, astrovirus 1.9%, and adenovirus 1.4%. Rotavirus G9 was characterized for the first time in Saudi Arabia. Adenoviruses were confirmed and further typed using hexon‐specific PCR and RFLP. These data were published by Tayeb et al. [Tayeb et al. (2008): J Med Virol 80: 1919–1929]. However, the nature of astrovirus identified was not investigated further. Therefore, more analysis details are appropriate for astrovirus in the Kingdom. As an extension of earlier work carried out on astrovirus serotype distribution in the Kingdom [Tayeb et al. (2008): J Med Virol 80: 1919–1929], a major objective of the project is to use molecular methods to determine the distribution of astrovirus genotype. Such data will help to provide valuable insights into genetic identities and possible sources of virus strains involved not only in pediatric gastroenteritis but also possible outbreaks in the community. J. Med. Virol. 82:2038–2042, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Seroprevalence of varicella‐zoster virus in Korea
Authors: Choi Won Suk , Noh Ji Yun , Huh Joong Yeon , Jo Yu Mi , Lee Jacob , Song Joon Young , Kim Woo Joo , Cheong Hee Jin
Published: October 2010

Varicella‐zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox and herpes zoster. Korea is assumed to have a high seroprevalence of VZV, although data are scant. A cross‐sectional and age‐stratified study was conducted to investigate the seroprevalence of VZV in different ages in the South Korean population. Four medical institutions were chosen in the southwestern area of Seoul in the vicinity of Gyeonggi‐do. Serum samples were obtained at each institution from consenting patients during April–August, 2008. Anti‐VZV IgG antibody was measured by an enzyme immunoassay. Of the 887 patients, 87.6% had anti‐VZV IgG antibody. The prevalence of anti‐VZV IgG antibody was 75% during the first 3 months after birth, but was only 13.6% 12 months after birth. Anti‐VZV IgG antibody prevalence increased, first at 1–2 years of age, and then at 5–6 years of age. The seroprevalence rate exceeded 90% in subjects over 11 years of age. The results show that the seroprevalence of VZV is relatively high in the South Korean population. A study on the rate of varicella vaccination and the vaccine's efficacy in South Korea is warranted. J. Med. Virol. 82:2123–2126, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cardioprotective effect of NO‐metoprolol in murine coxsackievirus B3‐induced myocarditis
Authors: Glück Brigitte , Dahlke Katja , Zell Roland , Krumbholz Andi , Decker Michael , Lehmann Jochen , Wutzler Peter
Published: October 2010

The effect of NO‐metoprolol, that is, 3‐nitrooxypivaloyl metoprolol‐amide, a novel NO‐releasing derivative of the β1‐blocking drug metoprolol was investigated in A.CA/SnJ mice infected with coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) and compared to metoprolol and placebo. Daily treatment of mice with the respective drug started immediately (experiment A) or 3 days after virus infection (experiment B) and was continued until day 13 post‐infection (p.i.). Two doses of NO‐metoprolol were administered. Body mass differences, viral load, and histopathological signs of myocarditis were compared between the several groups. As a result, NO‐metoprolol diminished significantly the body weight loss, the viral load and the histopathology, whereas metoprolol treatment led solely to a significant attenuation of myocardial damage. In experiment A, low dose NO‐metoprolol decreased significantly enteroviral copy numbers. Both doses of NO‐metoprolol had a significant effect on reduction of myocardial infiltrates and fibrosis. The data suggest that delayed drug administration might more advantageous. Both doses of NO‐metoprolol reduced significantly the scores of four tested parameters compared to placebo. Body weight loss, virus titers, plus‐strand as well as minus‐strand enteroviral RNA levels, infiltration and fibrosis scores were diminished significantly when NO‐metoprolol was given 3 days p.i. In addition, a significant difference regarding the enteroviral copy numbers was observed between low dose NO‐metoprolol‐ and metoprolol‐treated mice. Treatment with metoprolol reduced insignificantly the viral load and body weight loss (experiment A and B) but led to a significant reduction of myocardial histopathology in experiment A. The results indicate that NO‐metoprolol treatment has a greater therapeutic benefit than metoprolol. J. Med. Virol. 82:2043–2052, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Urban climatic map studies: a review
Authors: Ren Chao , Ng Edward Yan‐yung , Katzschner Lutz
Published: October 2010

Since their introduction 40 years ago, worldwide interest in urban climatic map (UCMap) studies has grown. Today, there are over 15 countries around the world processing their own climatic maps, developing urban climatic guidelines, and implementing mitigation measures for local planning practices. Facing the global issue of climate change, it is also necessary to include the changing climatic considerations holistically and strategically in the planning process, and to update city plans. This paper reviews progress in UCMap studies. The latest concepts, key methodologies, selected parameters, map structure, and the procedures of making UCMaps are described in the paper. The mitigation measures inspired by these studies and the associated urban climatic planning recommendations are also examined. More than 30 relevant studies around the world have been cited, and both significant developments and existing problems are discussed. The thermal environment and air ventilation condition within the urban canopy layer (UCL) of the city are important in the analytical processes of the climatic‐environmental evaluation. Possible mitigation measures and planned actions include decreasing anthropogenic heat release, improving air ventilation at the pedestrian level, providing more shaded areas, increasing greenery, creating air paths, and controlling building morphologies. Further developments have and will continue to focus on the spatial analysis of human thermal comfort in urban outdoor environments and on the impacts and adaptations of climate change. Mapmakers must continue to share lessons and experiences with city planners and policy makers, especially in the rapidly expanding cities of developing countries and regions. Copyright © 2010 Royal Meteorological Society
Tribological study of triazine derivatives as additives in rapeseed oil
Authors: Xiong Liping , He Zhongyi , Xu Huan , Lu Jinliang , Ren Tianhui , Fu Xisheng
Published: October 2010

Three novel S‐P‐N type triazine derivatives were synthesised, and their structures were analysed through elemental analysis, and their tribological behaviours as additives in rapeseed oil were evaluated using a four‐ball tester. The extreme pressure and antiwear (AW) mechanism was investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results indicate that the additives possess excellent load‐carrying capacity and AW ability but have some friction‐reducing property only under the low load condition. Based on the results of XPS and SEM analysis, it can be seen that tribochemical reaction occurred between the synthesised compounds and metal surfaces during the sliding process, to form a complex film which has excellent load‐carrying capacity and AW ability. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential effects of plasma and red blood cell transfusions on acute lung injury and infection risk following liver transplantation
Authors: Benson Alexander B. , Burton James R. , Austin Gregory L. , Biggins Scott W. , Zimmerman Michael A. , Kam Igal , Mandell Susan , Silliman Christopher C. , Rosen Hugo , Moss Marc
Published: October 2010

Patients with chronic liver disease have an increased risk of developing transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI) from plasma-containing blood products. Similarly, red blood cell transfusions have been associated with postoperative and nosocomial infections in surgical and critical care populations. Patients undergoing liver transplantation receive large amounts of cellular and plasma-containing blood components, but it is presently unclear which blood components are associated with these postoperative complications. A retrospective cohort study of 525 consecutive liver transplant patients revealed a perioperative TRALI rate of 1.3% (7/525, 95% confidence interval = 0.6%-2.7%), which was associated with increases in the hospital mortality rate [28.6% (2/7) versus 2.9% (15/518), P = 0.02] and the intensive care unit length of stay [2 (1-11 days) versus 0 days (0-2 days), P = 0.03]. Only high-plasma-containing blood products (plasma and platelets) were associated with the development of TRALI. Seventy-four of 525 patients (14.1%) developed a postoperative infection, and this was also associated with increased in-hospital mortality [10.8% (8/74) versus 2.0% (9/451), P
< 0.01] and a prolonged length of stay. Multivariate logistic regression determined that the number of transfused red blood cell units (adjusted odds ratio = 1.08, 95% confidence interval = 1.02-1.14, P
< 0.01), the presence of perioperative renal dysfunction, and reoperation were significantly associated with postoperative infection. In conclusion, patients undergoing liver transplantation have a high risk of developing postoperative complications from blood transfusion. Plasma-containing blood products were associated with the development of TRALI, whereas red blood cells were associated with the development of postoperative infections in a dose-dependent manner. Liver Transpl 17:149–158, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.