bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Susceptibility Profile of
Candida metapsilosis
and
Candida orthopsilosis
: Results from Population-Based Surveillance of Candidemia in Spain
Authors: Gomez-Lopez A. , Alastruey-Izquierdo A. , Rodriguez D. , Almirante B. , Pahissa A. , Rodriguez-Tudela J. L. , Cuenca-Estrella M.
Published: February 2008

We describe the prevalences and susceptibility profiles of two recently described species,
Candida metapsilosis
and
Candida orthopsilosis
, related to
Candida parapsilosis
in candidemia. The prevalences of these species (1.7% for
C. metapsilosis
and 1.4% for
C. orthopsilosis
) are significant. Differences observed in their susceptibility profiles could have therapeutic importance.
A Chemical Genomic Screen in
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Reveals a Role for Diphthamidation of Translation Elongation Factor 2 in Inhibition of Protein Synthesis by Sordarin
Authors: Botet Javier , Rodríguez-Mateos María , Ballesta Juan P. G. , Revuelta José Luis , Remacha Miguel
Published: February 2008

Sordarin and its derivatives are antifungal compounds of potential clinical interest. Despite the highly conserved nature of the fungal and mammalian protein synthesis machineries, sordarin is a selective inhibitor of protein synthesis in fungal organisms. In cells sensitive to sordarin, its mode of action is through preventing the release of translation elongation factor 2 (eEF2) during the translocation step, thus blocking protein synthesis. To further investigate the cellular components required for the effects of sordarin in fungal cells, we have used the haploid deletion collection of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
to systematically identify genes whose deletion confers sensitivity or resistance to the compound. Our results indicate that genes in a number of cellular pathways previously unknown to play a role in sordarin response are involved in its growth effects on fungal cells and reveal a specific requirement for the diphthamidation pathway of cells in causing eEF2 to be sensitive to the effects of sordarin on protein synthesis. Our results underscore the importance of the powerful genomic tools developed in yeast (
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
) to more comprehensively understanding the cellular mechanisms involved in the response to therapeutic agents.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Cystic Fibrosis Isolates from Individual Patients Demonstrate a Range of Levels of Lethality in Two
Drosophila melanogaster
Infection Models
Authors: Lutter Erika I. , Faria Monica M. P. , Rabin Harvey R. , Storey Douglas G.
Published: February 2008

Recently, two
Drosophila melanogaster
models of infection, fly feeding and fly nicking, have been developed that allow a determination of pathogenic potential of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
isolates. In this study, control strains, isolates from burn wounds, and isolates from the sputa of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients were used to compare the two infection models to determine whether any of the isolates might be better adapted to either of the models. In addition, our goal was to determine the variability of isolates from individual CF patients. Three of four control strains (PAO1, PAK, and PA14) caused significant mortality in the flies in both models of infection. The remaining control strain, PA103, was lethal to flies in the nicking model but lacked significant lethality in the feeding model. The burn wound isolates had a high level of lethality in both models. Interestingly, the CF isolates had the largest diversity of lethality in both models of infection. The range of pathogenic potentials of the CF isolates occurred across a cohort of patients, both at the patient level and down to the level of individual sputum samples. The majority of all isolates had similar levels of lethality in both fly infection models. However, two CF isolates were significantly more lethal in the nicking model, and three CF isolates were significantly more lethal in the feeding model. In conclusion, the two
Drosophila
infection models were useful for the analysis of the diversity of pathogenic potentials of
P. aeruginosa
isolates.
Hepatosplenomegaly Is Associated with Low Regulatory and Th2 Responses to Schistosome Antigens in Childhood Schistosomiasis and Malaria Coinfection
Authors: Wilson Shona , Jones Frances M. , Mwatha Joseph K. , Kimani Gachuhi , Booth Mark , Kariuki H. Curtis , Vennervald Birgitte J. , Ouma John H. , Muchiri Eric , Dunne David W.
Published: February 2008

Hepatosplenomegaly among Kenyan schoolchildren has been shown to be exacerbated where there is transmission of bothSchistosoma mansoniandPlasmodium falciparum. This highly prevalent and chronic morbidity often occurs in the absence of ultrasound-detectable periportal fibrosis and may be due to immunological inflammation. For a cohort of school-age children, whole-blood cultures were stimulated withS. mansonisoluble egg antigen (SEA) or soluble worm antigen (SWA). Responses to SWA were found to be predominantly Th2 cytokines; however, they were not significantly associated with either hepatosplenomegaly or infection withS. mansoniorP. falciparum. In comparison, SEA-specific Th2 cytokine responses were low, and the levels were negatively correlated withS. mansoniinfection intensities and were lower among children who were coinfected withP. falciparum. Tumor necrosis factor alpha levels in response to stimulation with SEA were high, and a negative association between presentation with hepatomegaly and the levels of the regulatory cytokines interleukin-6 and transforming growth factor β1suggests that a possible mechanism for childhood hepatomegaly in areas where both malaria and schistosomiasis are endemic is poor regulation of an inflammatory response to schistosome eggs.
ON IMPLEMENTATION AND PERFORMANCE OF TABLE-DRIVEN DFA-BASED STRING PROCESSORS
Authors: NGASSAM ERNEST KETCHA , KOURIE DERRICK G. , WATSON BRUCE W.
Published: February 2008

Table-driven (TD) DFA-based string processing algorithms are examined from a number of vantage points. Firstly, various strategies for implementing such algorithms in a cache-efficient manner are identified. The denotational semantics of such algorithms is encapsulated in a function whose various arguments are associated with each implementation strategy. This formal view of the implementation strategies suggests twelve different algorithms, each blending together the implementation strategies in a particular way. The performance of these algorithms is examined in against a set of artificially generated data. Results indicate a number of cases where the new algorithms outperform the traditional TD algorithm.
ON SUBWORD SYMMETRY OF WORDS
Authors: ČERNÝ ANTON
Published: February 2008

We call a word L-symmetric with respect to a finite language L if it contains the same number of scattered subwords u as of uR for every word u from L. We show that increasing the size of the language L may lead to an unlimited refinement of the language of L-symmetric words. Further we prove that if a long enough initial segment of a D0L-sequence consists entirely of L-symmetric words, then all words in the sequence are L-symmetric.
TRAFFIC BEHAVIOR IN A TWO-LANE SYSTEM CONSISTING OF A MIXTURE OF BUSES AND CARS
Authors: YUAN YAO-MING , JIANG RUI , WU QING-SONG , WANG RUILI
Published: February 2008

In this paper, a two-lane traffic system consisting of a mixture of buses and cars is studied. The buses stop at each bus stop to pick up passengers and are not allowed to change lane. The cars may change lane when hindered by preceding vehicles. Our simulations show that with a fixed number of buses, four states of the traffic system are identified. The spatial-temporal plots of the four traffic states, and the trajectories of buses at different densities are presented. A gradual transition instead of sharp phase transition from bunching state to homogeneous state of the buses is found. Next, we study the system behavior at different number of bus stops, and an optimal number of stops is suggested. Finally, the influence of bus stops on the fundamental diagram is studied.
MACROSCOPIC DYNAMICAL DESCRIPTION OF ROTATING Au + Au SYSTEM
Authors: CÂRJAN N. , SIWEK-WILCZYŃSKA K. , SKWIRA-CHALOT I. , WILCZYŃSKI J.
Published: February 2008

Events with more than two heavy fragments have been abundantly observed in heavy-ion semi-peripheral (fission-like) reaction 197 Au +197 Au at 15 MeV/nucleon. This raised interesting questions about their origin and about the time-scale at which they occur. As a possible explanation of this process, the surface instability of the cylindrical neck that is formed along the path from contact to reseparation of the rotating Au + Au system is investigated in the present paper. For this purpose the Los Alamos finite-range macroscopic dynamical model was used. The calculations were performed at relatively high angular momenta, L = 100 to 300 ħ, for two types of dissipation mechanisms: two-body viscosity and one-body dissipation. Various initial nuclear deformations and initial kinetic energies in the fission direction were considered. The resulting dynamical evolution in the multidimensional deformation space always led to multifragment scission configurations suggesting that ternary and quaternary break-up can occur during the heavy-ion reaction studied.
TDDFT WITH SKYRME FORCES: EFFECT OF TIME-ODD DENSITIES ON ELECTRIC GIANT RESONANCES
Authors: NESTERENKO V. O. , KLEINIG W. , KVASIL J. , VESELY P. , REINHARD P.-G.
Published: February 2008

Time-odd densities and their effect on electric giant resonances are investigated within the self-consistent separable random-phase-approximation (SRPA) for a variety of Skyrme forces (SkT6, SkO, SkM*, SIII, SGII, SLy4, SLy6, SkI3). Time-odd densities are essential for maintaining the Galilean invariance of the Skyrme functional. Their contribution is determined by the values and signs of the isovector and isoscalar effective-mass parameters of the force. In even-even nuclei these densities are not active in the ground state but can affect the dynamics. As a particular case, we explore the role of the current density in the description of isovector E1 and isoscalar E2 giant resonances in a chain of spherical and deformed Nd isotopes with A=134-158. The relation of the current to the effective masses and relevant parameters of the Skyrme functional is analyzed. It is shown that the current contributes substantially to E1 and E2 and the contribution is the same for all the isotopes along the chain, i.e. for both standard and exotic nuclei.
THE SIMPLIFIED DESCRIPTION OF DIPOLE RADIATIVE STRENGTH FUNCTION
Authors: PLUJKO V. A. , KADENKO I. M , GORBACHENKO O. M. , KULICH E. V.
Published: February 2008

The gamma-decay strength function is calculated and compared with experimental data to test simple methods of the descriptions of the dipole radiative strength function (RSF) of gamma-decay in the middle-weight and heavy atomic nuclei. Simplified version of the modified Lorentzian model is proposed. It is shown that the phenomenological closed-form models with asymmetric shape can be used for overall estimates of the dipole RSF in the gamma-ray energy region up to about 20 MeV when giant dipole resonance (GDR) parameters are known or the GDR systematics can be adopted.
Hydrogeology of lowland karst in Ireland
Authors: Drew D.P.
Published: February 2008

Almost a half of the Republic of Ireland is underlain by Carboniferous limestone, most of which is sufficiently pure to be karstified. Upland outcrops of limestone are largely confined to plateaux in the west and NW such as the Burren but the great majority of the limestone underlies the undulating lowland of central Ireland, which only locally exceeds 100 m in elevation. The lowland limestones are the principal source of groundwater in Ireland and also coincide with the most economically developed and intensively farmed areas, unlike the situation in Britain, where most karst limestone areas are relatively peripheral uplands. Such limited hydrogeological investigations as have been undertaken of the lowland limestones of Ireland suggest that karstic flow systems predominate, that they are intimately related to surface drainage systems and that the groundwater and associated karst features are often highly vulnerable to anthropogenic influences.
Effects of a high-glucose environment on the pituitary growth hormone-releasing hormone receptor: type 1 diabetes compared with in vitro glucotoxicity
Authors: Bédard Karine , Strecko Julie , Thériault Karyne , Bédard Julie , Veyrat-Durebex Christelle , Gaudreau Pierrette
Published: February 2008

The present study investigated the effects of diabetes and high glucose on GHRH receptor (GHRH-R) mRNA and protein levels in the pituitary of diabetic rats 2, 21, and 60 days post-streptozotocin (post-STZ) administration. Two days post-STZ, the 2.5-kb GHRH-R mRNA transcript was increased. Twenty-one days post-STZ, both the 2.5- and 4-kb transcripts and a 72-kDa 125I-GHRH-GHRH-R complex were elevated. Sixty days post-STZ, the 4-kb transcript remained increased and the 45-kDa 125I-GHRH-GHRH-R complex (functional receptor) was decreased. Hypothalamic GHRH mRNA and serum total IGF-I levels were reduced at all three time points. To better understand the role of high glucose on GHRH-R regulation, time-course effects of 33 compared with 6 mM d-glucose (DG) were examined in cultured anterior pituitary cells from 2-mo-old healthy rats. Membrane lipoperoxidation was present in 33 mM DG, and GHRH-R mRNA levels were diminished after 24 h, Fluo-GHRH internalization was marginal after 16–24 h, and GHRH-induced cAMP levels were decreased after 24 and 48 h. Altogether, these results indicate that the increase of the 2.5-kb GHRH-R mRNA transcript in vivo could be a consequence of a decrease of hypothalamic GHRH mRNA levels in STZ rats. Since it does not affect primarily functional GHRH-R levels, the initial diminution of circulating IGF-I levels could result from a decreased GHRH-R stimulation by GHRH. Thus, the effect of glucotoxicity would be related to a decrease of functional GHRH-R protein, as observed in rats 60 days post-STZ and in cultured pituitary cells from healthy rats exposed to a high-glucose environment.
Neurocircuits integrating hormone and nutrient signaling in control of glucose metabolism
Authors: Rother Eva , Könner A. Christine , Brüning Jens C.
Published: February 2008

As obesity, diabetes, and associated comorbidities are on a constant rise, large efforts have been put into better understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which nutrients and metabolic signals influence central and peripheral energy regulation. For decades, peripheral organs as a source and a target of such cues have been the focus of study. Their ability to integrate metabolic signals is essential for balanced energy and glucose metabolism. Only recently has the pivotal role of the central nervous system in the control of fuel partitioning been recognized. The rapidly expanding knowledge on the elucidation of molecular mechanisms and neuronal circuits involved is the focus of this review.
TRX-ASK1-JNK signaling regulation of cell density-dependent cytotoxicity in cigarette smoke-exposed human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Lee Yong Chan , Chuang Chun-Yu , Lee Pak-Kei , Lee Jin-Soo , Harper Richart W. , Buckpitt Alan B. , Wu Reen , Oslund Karen
Published: February 2008

Cigarette smoke is a major environmental air pollutant that injures airway epithelium and incites subsequent diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The lesion that smoke induces in airway epithelium is still incompletely understood. Using a LIVE/DEAD cytotoxicity assay, we observed that subconfluent cultures of bronchial epithelial cells derived from both human and monkey airway tissues and an immortalized normal human bronchial epithelial cell line (HBE1) were more susceptible to injury by cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and by direct cigarette smoke exposure than cells in confluent cultures. Scraping confluent cultures also caused an enhanced cell injury predominately in the leading edge of the scraped confluent cultures by CSE. Cellular ATP levels in both subconfluent and confluent cultures were drastically reduced after CSE exposure. In contrast, GSH levels were significantly reduced only in subconfluent cultures exposed to smoke and not in confluent cultures. Western blot analysis demonstrated ERK activation in both confluent and subconfluent cultures after CSE. However, activation of apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1), JNK, and p38 were demonstrated only in subconfluent cultures and not in confluent cultures after CSE. Using short interfering RNA (siRNA) to JNK1 and JNK2 and a JNK inhibitor, we attenuated CSE-mediated cell death in subconfluent cultures but not with an inhibitor of the p38 pathway. Using the tetracycline (Tet)-on inducible approach, overexpression of thioredoxin (TRX) attenuated CSE-mediated cell death and JNK activation in subconfluent cultures. These results suggest that the TRX-ASK1-JNK pathway may play a critical role in mediating cell density-dependent CSE cytotoxicity.
Medullary pathways mediating the parasubthalamic nucleus depressor response
Authors: Ciriello John , Solano-Flores L. Pastor , Rosas-Arellano M. Patricia , Kirouac Gilbert J. , Babic Tanja
Published: February 2008

The parasubthalamic nucleus (PSTN) projects extensively to the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS); however, the function of PSTN in cardiovascular regulation is unknown. Experiments were done in α-chloralose anesthetized, paralyzed, and artificially ventilated rats to investigate the effect of glutamate (10 nl, 0.25 M) activation of PSTN neurons on mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), and renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA). Glutamate stimulation of PSTN elicited depressor (−20.4 ± 0.7 mmHg) and bradycardia (−26.0 ± 1.0 beats/min) responses and decreases in RSNA (67 ± 17%). Administration (intravenous) of atropine methyl bromide attenuated the bradycardia response (46%), but had no effect on the MAP response. Subsequent intravenous administration of hexamethonium bromide blocked both the remaining bradycardia and depressor responses. Bilateral microinjection of the synaptic blocker CoCl2 into the caudal NTS region attenuated the PSTN depressor and bradycardia responses by 92% and 94%, respectively. Additionally, prior glutamate activation of neurons in the ipsilateral NTS did not alter the magnitude of the MAP response to stimulation of PSTN, but potentiated HR response by 35%. Finally, PSTN stimulation increased the magnitude of the reflex bradycardia to activation of arterial baroreceptors. These data indicate that activation of neurons in the PSTN elicits a decrease in MAP due to sympathoinhibition and a cardiac slowing that involves both vagal excitation and sympathoinhibition. In addition, these data suggest that the PSTN depressor effects on circulation are mediated in part through activation of NTS neurons involved in baroreflex function.
Increased renal renin content in mice lacking the Na+/H+ exchanger NHE2
Authors: Hanner Fiona , Chambrey Régine , Bourgeois Soline , Meer Elliott , Mucsi István , Rosivall László , Shull Gary E. , Lorenz John N. , Eladari Dominique , Peti-Peterdi János
Published: February 2008

Macula densa (MD) cells express the Na+/H+ exchanger (NHE) isoform NHE2 at the apical membrane, which may play an important role in tubular salt sensing through the regulation of cell volume and intracellular pH. These studies aimed to determine whether NHE2 participates in the MD control of renin synthesis. Renal renin content and activity and elements of the MD signaling pathway were analyzed using wild-type (NHE2+/+) and NHE2 knockout (NHE2−/−) mice. Immunofluorescence studies indicated that NHE2−/− mice lack NHE3 at the MD apical membrane, so the other apical NHE isoform has not compensated for the lack of NHE2. Importantly, the number of renin-expressing cells in the afferent arteriole in NHE2−/− mice was increased ∼2.5-fold using renin immunohistochemistry. Western blotting confirmed ∼20% higher renal cortical renin content in NHE2−/− mice compared with wild type. No-salt diet for 1 wk significantly increased renin content and activity in NHE2+/+ mice, but the response was blunted in NHE2−/− mice. Renal tissue renin activity and plasma renin concentration were elevated three- and twofold, respectively, in NHE2−/− mice compared with wild type. NHE2−/− mice also exhibited a significantly increased renal cortical cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase (mPGES) expression, indicating MD-specific mechanisms responsible for the increased renin content. Significant and chronic activation of ERK1/2 was observed in MD cells of NHE2−/− kidneys. Removal of salt or addition of NHE inhibitors to cultured mouse MD-derived (MMDD1) cells caused a time-dependent activation of ERK1/2. In conclusion, the NHE2 isoform appears to be important in the MD feedback control of renin secretion, and the signaling pathway likely involves MD cell shrinkage and activation of ERK1/2, COX-2, and mPGES, all well-established elements of the MD-PGE2-renin release pathway.
Effects of chromosome 17 on features of the metabolic syndrome in the Lyon hypertensive rat
Authors: Gilibert S. , Kwitek A. E. , Hubner N. , Tschannen M. , Jacob H. J. , Sassard J. , Bataillard A.
Published: February 2008

The metabolic syndrome (involving obesity, hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and a proinflammatory/prethrombotic state) is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Its incidence continues to rise, in part because of the epidemic increase in obesity. The Lyon hypertensive (LH) rat is a model for hypertension and several other features of the metabolic syndrome, having high body weight, plasma cholesterol, and triglycerides, increased insulin-to-glucose ratio, and salt-sensitive hypertension. Previous genetic studies in LH/Mav rats and a normotensive control (LN/Mav) identified quantitative trait loci (QTLs) on rat chromosome (RNO)17 for multiple features of the metabolic syndrome. To further evaluate the role of RNO17 in the LH rat, we generated a consomic strain (LH-17BN) by substituting LH RNO17 with that of the sequenced Brown Norway (BN/NHsdMcwi) rat. Male LH and BN rats and LH-17BNrats were characterized for blood pressure and metabolic and morphological parameters. Similar to the protective effect of LN alleles, the LH-17BNrat also showed decreased body weight, triglycerides, and blood pressure; however, there was no significant difference in cholesterol or insulin-to-glucose ratio. Therefore, the substitution of the LH chromosome 17 is sufficient to recapitulate some, but not all, of the traits previously mapped to this chromosome. This could be due to the lack of a susceptible LH genome background or due to the introgression of chromosome 17 from another strain. Regardless, this study provides a single-chromosome genetic model for further dissection of blood pressure and morphological and metabolic traits on this chromosome.
Nutritional Determinants of the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Josse Andrea R. , Jenkins David J.A. , Kendall Cyril W.C.
Published: February 2008

The metabolic syndrome has attracted interest because of its relevance to major contemporary chronic diseases associated with inactive lifestyles and the abundance of food, both of which have resulted in a way of life which challenges our genetic makeup. Changing the fuel mix by the introduction of more monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids, a reduction in saturated fatty acids, an increase in fiber, and the use of low glycemic index slow-release carbohydrate foods may make a difference, as will increasing the amount of vegetable protein and plant foods such as nuts, rich in monounsaturated fatty acids and antioxidant systems. Nevertheless, these supportive measures will be overwhelmed in the absence of calorie restriction combined with adequate energy expenditure. This situation appears to be one where the subsidiary solutions are complex and the central issue is simple.
Gene–Nutrient Interactions in the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Phillips Catherine M. , Tierney Audrey C. , Roche Helen M.
Published: February 2008

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a very common disease associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease. The diverse clinical characteristics of the MetS illustrate the complexity of the disease process, which involves several dysregulated metabolic pathways. Thus, multiple genetic targets must be involved in the pathogenesis and progression of the disease. Research indicates a major role for genetic susceptibility to the MetS. However, the human genome has not changed markedly in the last decade but the prevalence of the condition has increased exponentially, illustrating the importance of gene–environmental interactions. Dietary fat is an important environmental factor which can modify the development of the MetS. Genetic background can interact with habitual dietary fat composition, affecting predisposition to the MetS. Recent research indicates that currently ineffective therapeutic dietary recommendations may require a ‘personalised nutrition’ approach, wherein the genetic profile may determine the responsiveness of patients to specific dietary fatty acid interventions. Understanding the biological impact of gene–nutrient interactions will provide a key insight into the pathogenesis and progression of diet-related polygenic disorders, including the MetS. This review will explore the interactions between genetic background and dietary exposure/nutritional therapy.
Acute Coronary Stenosis in a Young Man with Behçet’s Syndrome
Authors: Erbilen Enver , Albayrak Sinan , Gulcan Erim , Taser Figen , Bulur Serkan , Ozhan Hakan , Yazici Mehmet
Published: February 2008

Objective: To present a case of myocardial infarction due to Behçet’s syndrome. Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 27-year-old man who was known to have Behçet’s syndrome for 1 year presented with retrosternal fluctuating chest pain, which radiated to the epigastrium 5 h prior to admission. Coronary angiography showed total occlusion of the left anterior descending coronary artery, which was successfully treated with coronary stent implantation. Conclusion: This case shows that patients with Behçet’s syndrome who had acute chest pain should be thoroughly examined for any signs of acute myocardial infarction.
Ruptured Meckel’s Mesodiverticulum and Meckel’s Diverticulum following Blunt Abdominal Trauma
Authors: Kazemi Kourosh , Jalaeian Hamed , Fattahi Mohammad Reza , Hosseini Seyed Vahid , Shafiee Masoud , Roshan Naghmeh
Published: February 2008

Objectives: To present a case of simultaneous rupture of Meckel’s diverticulum and mesodiverticulum with abdominal pain following a blunt trauma to the abdomen, sustained during an automobile accident. Clinical Presentation: Following a head-on automobile collision a 36-year-old man was referred to the emergency room with abdominal pain, guarding and rigidity and was taken to the operating theater with a preoperative impression of peritonitis due to rupture of a hollow viscus. Upon abdominal exploration, ruptured Meckel’s diverticulum (from the base) and ileum with active bleeding from mesodiverticulum was found. Intervention: The ileum was repaired in two layers: a segmental bowel resection including Meckel’s diverticulum and the gastrointestinal tube anastomosed without any tension. The patient has a normal postoperative course. Conclusion: This case shows that a blunt abdominal trauma can tear the mesodiverticulum and rupture the Meckel’s diverticular base simultaneously, resulting in hemoperitoneum and chemical peritonitis. Diagnosis and management of this type of injury are basically the same as those of acute surgical abdomen following trauma.
Fetal Loss after Amniocentesis in a Series of 5,780 Procedures
Authors: Gaudry P. , Grangé G. , Lebbar A. , Choiset A. , Girard S. , Goffinet F. , Lewin F.
Published: February 2008

Objectives: Counseling on prenatal diagnosis requires accurate knowledge of the associated risks, including fetal loss. The objective of our study was to assess this risk of amniocentesis in a single center with several operators. Methods: This retrospective analysis concerns only women with singleton pregnancies who underwent amniocentesis between 14+0 and 23+6 weeks’ gestation. Results: During this 4.5-year period, 5,780 amniocenteses were performed, of which we analyzed 5,319. The rate of fetal loss was 70 in 4,858 tests (1.4%), with a lost-to-follow-up rate of 3.8%. Conclusion: Our results for fetal loss are comparable to those in the largest series with fewer operators already published.
Vaginal Delivery Using Cranioclasia following Prenatal Diagnosis of a Giant Fetal Intracranial Teratoma
Authors: Vibert-Guigue Claude , Gonzales Marie , Gouellet Nicodème , Zirah Clément , Milliez Jacques , Carbonne Bruno
Published: February 2008

Intracranial teratoma, although a rare disease, is nonetheless the most common of the congenital tumors of the central nervous system in the neonatal period. It can be diagnosed antenatally by ultrasound. The prognosis for fetal forms of teratoma is very grim. We report here the case of an immature teratoma identified at 26 weeks’ gestation and discuss its obstetric consequences, in particular, the technical procedures for a medically-indicated termination of pregnancy in view of the massive increase in head circumference associated with this tumor.
Organic Acid Concentrations in Amniotic Fluid Found in Normal and Down Syndrome Pregnancies
Authors: Baggot Paddy Jim , Eliseo Anna Jane Y. , DeNicola Nathaniel G. , Kalamarides Jeremy A. , Shoemaker James D.
Published: February 2008

Introduction: Organic acids were examined from normal and Down syndrome pregnancies to identify possible differences between the amniotic fluid from fetuses with Down Syndrome compared with that of normal fetuses. Materials and Methods: Amniotic fluids were obtained from prior amniocenteses. Forty-one normal and 22 Down syndrome specimens were assayed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Results and Discussion: 5-Hydroxycaproate, methylsuccinate, α-ketoglutarate, and adipate were significantly elevated in Down syndrome, suggesting riboflavin deficiency. Phenylpyruvate was also significantly elevated in fetuses with Down syndrome. Phenylpyruvate inhibits the metabolism of tetrahydrobiopterin, which is necessary for neurotransmitter metabolism. Elevated phenylpyruvate is consistent with previous research, suggesting a disturbance of tetrahydrobiopterin metabolism in Down syndrome. Conclusion: Organic acid markers for B2 deficiency are elevated in the amniotic fluid of fetuses with Down syndrome. Elevation of phenylpyruvate may impair neurotransmitter metabolism. Organic acid markers for B12 levels are not different between the Down syndrome and normal group.
Effects of Low- and High-Flux Dialyzers on Oxidative Stress and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Chu Pei-Lun , Chiu Yen-Ling , Lin Jou-Wei , Chen Shih-I , Wu Kwan-Dun
Published: February 2008

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The cornerstone of high CVD incidence in ESRD patients is endothelial dysfunction which results from inflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance. Although various modalities of hemodialysis (HD) have been presumed to exert different effects on oxidative stress and insulin resistance, solid evidence is still lacking. Methods: 40 ESRD patients undergoing HD were prospectively enrolled and divided randomly into two groups. Patients in each group received either F8 HPS (low-flux) (Group A) or FX80 (high-flux) (Group B) as HD dialyzers for 2 consecutive months. Diet pattern and medications were kept as usual in both groups to avoid considerable blood glucose change during study period. Blood samples were taken at the start and end of the study. Results: A total of 38 patients (18 and 20 for Groups A and B, respectively) completed the study. Within each group, there was no change in adiponectin, plasma 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, blood glucose and insulin after 2 months of treatment except a significant change of HOMAIR (p = 0.02) in high-flux group. The significant change of HOMAIR between the two groups (p = 0.017) mainly results from the parallel change of insulin between the two groups (p = 0.03). Conclusion: For patients receiving HD, the high-flux dialyzer with synthetic polysulfone membranes fails to provide a better anti-inflammatory or antioxidative effect than the low-flux dialyzer; however, the high-flux dialyzer does significantly improve insulin resistance in this short-term study. This result implies that the high-flux dialyzer might provide better cardiovascular protection than the low-flux dialyzer. Therefore, the low-flux dialyzer might be considered for patients who only need short-term HD therapy. Regarding patients under long-term maintenance HD therapy, a high-flux dialyzer might be the choice of dialyzer.
Cost-Effectiveness of Providing Full Drug Coverage to Increase Medication Adherence in Post–Myocardial Infarction Medicare Beneficiaries
Authors: Choudhry Niteesh K. , Patrick Amanda R. , Antman Elliott M. , Avorn Jerry , Shrank William H.
Published: February 2008

Background—

Effective therapies for the secondary prevention of coronary heart disease–related events are significantly underused, and attempts to improve adherence have often yielded disappointing results. Elimination of patient out-of-pocket costs may be an effective strategy to enhance medication use. We sought to estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness of providing full coverage for aspirin, β-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers, and statins (combination pharmacotherapy) to individuals enrolled in the Medicare drug benefit program after acute myocardial infarction.

Methods and Results—

We created a Markov cost-effectiveness model to estimate the incremental cost-effectiveness of providing Medicare beneficiaries with full coverage for combination pharmacotherapy compared with current coverage under the Medicare Part D program. Our analysis was conducted from the societal perspective and considered a lifetime time horizon. In a sensitivity analysis, we repeated our analysis from the perspective of Medicare. In the model, post–myocardial infarction Medicare beneficiaries who received usual prescription drug coverage under the Part D program lived an average of 8.21 quality-adjusted life-years after their initial event, incurring coronary heart disease–related medical costs of $114 000. Those who received prescription drug coverage without deductibles or copayments lived an average of 8.56 quality-adjusted life-years and incurred $111 600 in coronary heart disease–related costs. Compared with current prescription drug coverage, full coverage for post–myocardial infarction secondary prevention therapies would result in greater functional life expectancy (0.35 quality-adjusted life-year) and less resource use ($2500). From the perspective of Medicare, full drug coverage was highly cost-effective ($7182/quality-adjusted life-year) but not cost saving.

Conclusions—

Our analysis suggests that providing full coverage for combination therapy to post–myocardial infarction Medicare beneficiaries would save both lives and money from the societal perspective.
Endogenous Melanocortin System Activity Contributes to the Elevated Arterial Pressure in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: da Silva Alexandre A. , do Carmo Jussara M. , Kanyicska Bela , Dubinion John , Brandon Elizabeth , Hall John E.
Published: February 2008

Previous studies suggest that activation of the CNS melanocortin system reduces appetite while increasing sympathetic activity and arterial pressure. The present study tested whether endogenous activity of the CNS melanocortin 3/4 receptors (MC3/4-R) contributes to elevated arterial pressure in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR), a model of hypertension with increased sympathetic activity. A cannula was placed in the lateral ventricle of male SHR and Wistar (WKY) rats for chronic intracerebroventricular (ICV) infusions (0.5 μL/h). Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were recorded 24 hour/d using telemetry. After 5-day control period, rats were infused with MC3/4-R antagonist (SHU-9119, 1 nmol/h-ICV) for 12 days, followed by 5-day posttreatment period. MC3/4-R antagonism increased food intake in SHR by 90% and in WKY by 125%, resulting in marked weight gain, insulin resistance, and hyperleptinemia in SHR and WKY. Despite weight gain, MC3/4-R antagonism reduced HR in SHR and WKY (≈40 bpm), while lowering MAP to a greater extent in SHR (−22±4 mm Hg) than WKY (−4±3 mm Hg). SHU9119 treatment failed to cause further reductions in MAP during chronic adrenergic blockade with propranolol and terazosin. These results suggest that endogenous activity of the CNS melanocortin system contributes to the maintenance of adrenergic tone and elevated arterial pressure in SHR even though mRNA levels for POMC and MC4R in the mediobasal hypothalamus were not increased compared to WKY. These results also support the hypothesis that weight gain does not raise arterial pressure in the absence of a functional MC3/4-R.
Statin Treatment in Hypercholesterolemic Pregnant Mice Reduces Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Their Offspring
Authors: Elahi Maqsood M. , Cagampang Felino R. , Anthony Frederick W. , Curzen Nick , Ohri Sunil K. , Hanson Mark A.
Published: February 2008

Increasing evidence suggests that hypercholesterolemia during pregnancy initiates pathogenic events in the fetus leading to increased risk of cardiovascular disease in the adult offspring. In this study we examined in mice whether pharmacological intervention using statins in late pregnancy could alleviate the detrimental effects of a high-fat, high-cholesterol (45% fat) maternal diet on the health of the dams and their offspring. Pregnant C57 mice on high-fat, high-cholesterol diet were given the 3hydroxy3methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase inhibitor pravastatin in the drinking water (5 mg/kg of body weight per day) in the second half of pregnancy and during lactation to lower cholesterol and improve postweaning maternal blood pressure. Weaned offspring were then fed the high-fat, high-cholesterol diet until adulthood (generating dam/offspring dietary groups high-fat, high-cholesterol/high-fat, high-cholesterol and high-fat, high-cholesterol plus pravastatin during the second half of pregnancy and lactation/high-fat, high-cholesterol). These groups were compared with offspring from mothers fed standard chow (control), which were then fed control diet to adulthood (control/control). Compared with high-fat, high-cholesterol, high-fat, high-cholesterol plus pravastatin during second half of pregnancy and lactation dams showed significantly reduced total cholesterol concentrations and reduced systolic blood pressure. The high-fat, high-cholesterol plus pravastatin during second half of pregnancy and lactation/high-fat, high-cholesterol offspring were significantly lighter, less hypertensive, and more active compared with the high-fat, high-cholesterol/high-fat, high-cholesterol group. Total serum and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations were significantly lower, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations were raised in high-fat, high-cholesterol plus pravastatin during the second half of pregnancy and lactation/high-fat, high-cholesterol offspring, compared with the high-fat, high-cholesterol/high-fat, high-cholesterol group. The control/control offspring showed the lowest blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These findings indicate that the cholesterol-lowering effect of statins in pregnant dams consuming a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet leads to reduced cardiovascular risk factors in offspring that are sustained into adulthood.
Salt Intake Is Related to Soft Drink Consumption in Children and Adolescents
Authors: He Feng J. , Marrero Naomi M. , MacGregor Graham A.
Published: February 2008

Dietary salt is a major determinant of fluid intake in adults; however, little is known about this relationship in children. Sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption is related to childhood obesity, but it is unclear whether there is a link between salt and sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption. We analyzed the data of a cross-sectional study, the National Diet and Nutrition Survey for young people in Great Britain. Salt intake and fluid intake were assessed in 1688 participants aged 4 to 18 years, using a 7-day dietary record. There was a significant association between salt intake and total fluid, as well as sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption (
P
<0.001), after adjusting for potential confounding factors. A difference of 1 g/d in salt intake was associated with a difference of 100 and 27 g/d in total fluid and sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption, respectively. These results, in conjunction with other evidence, particularly that from experimental studies where only salt intake was changed, demonstrate that salt is a major determinant of fluid and sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption during childhood. If salt intake in children in the United Kingdom was reduced by half (mean decrease: 3 g/d), there would be an average reduction of ≈2.3 sugar-sweetened soft drinks per week per child. A reduction in salt intake could, therefore, play a role in helping to reduce childhood obesity through its effect on sugar-sweetened soft drink consumption. This would have a beneficial effect on preventing cardiovascular disease independent of and additive to the effect of salt reduction on blood pressure.
Glucose Homeostasis in Hypertensive Subjects
Authors: Korhonen Päivi , Aarnio Pertti , Saaresranta Tarja , Jaatinen Pekka , Kantola Ilkka
Published: February 2008

The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of undiagnosed impaired glucose homeostasis in hypertensive subjects in the general population. The most reasonable screening strategy for glucose disorders was also assessed. We carried out an oral glucose tolerance test for 1106 hypertensive subjects aged 45 to 70 years without previously diagnosed diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Blood pressure, waist circumference, body mass index, and plasma lipids were also measured. Type 2 diabetes was found in 66 (6%) of the subjects, impaired glucose tolerance in 220 (20%), and impaired fasting glucose in 167 (15%). If we had carried out an oral glucose tolerance test only for those hypertensive subjects with fasting plasma glucose ≥5.6 mmol/L, we would have missed ≈40% of the patients with impaired glucose tolerance. The International Diabetes Federation criteria of metabolic syndrome identified 96% of all the cases of type 2 diabetes and 88% of all the cases of impaired glucose tolerance. The prevalence of central obesity was alarming: 90% of the women and 82% of the men had a waist circumference ≥80 cm or ≥94 cm, respectively. Impaired glucose homeostasis and central obesity are common in hypertensive subjects. An oral glucose tolerance test is reasonable to carry out at least for the hypertensive subjects with metabolic syndrome. Weight stabilization is an important goal to treat hypertensive patients.
Safety of Placebo Controls in Pediatric Hypertension Trials
Authors: Smith P. Brian , Li Jennifer S. , Murphy M. Dianne , Califf Robert M. , Benjamin Daniel K.
Published: February 2008

Many clinical trials, including those in pediatric populations, use a placebo arm for medical conditions for which there are readily available therapeutic interventions. Several short-term efficacy trials of antihypertensive medications performed in response to Food and Drug Administration–issued written requests have used a placebo arm; whether the use of a placebo arm is safe in children with hypertension is unknown. We sought to define the rates of adverse events in 10 short-term antihypertensive trials to determine whether these trials resulted in increased risk to pediatric patients receiving placebo. We combined patient-level data from 10 antihypertensive efficacy trials performed in pediatric patients that were submitted to the Food and Drug Administration from 1998 to 2005. We determined the number and type of all of the adverse events reported during the placebo-controlled portion of the clinical trials and compared these numbers between the patients who received placebo and those who received active drug. Among the 1707 children in the 10 studies, we observed no differences in the rates of adverse events reported between the patients who received placebo and those who received active drug. Only 5 patients suffered a serious adverse event during the trials; none were thought by the investigators to be related to study drug, and only 1 occurred in a patient receiving placebo. Short-term exposure to placebo in pediatric trials of antihypertensive medications appears to be safe.
The Image of the Jews in Ps.-Gregory of Nyssa's Testimonies against the Jews
Authors: Albl Martin
Published: February 2008

This article examines the implicit audience of Ps.-Gregory's Testimonies against the Jews, a late fourth-century collection of Old Testament proof-texts and commentary intended to prove the truth of Christian beliefs over against Jewish objections. As a "meta-collection" of previous Christian proof-text collections and exegetical traditions, it reflects disparate and sometimes contradictory images of the Jews. In comparison with other Christian adversus Iudaeos literature, however, the Testimonies is remarkable for its generally positive portrayal of Judaism. It argues, for example, that the purpose of the Jewish law was to keep the descendants of Abraham pure until the birth of the Messiah. While "proving" at length that Jesus' death was prophesied in scripture, it never blames the Jews for that death. Its tone is consistently civil, presuming that "the Jew" is not "blind" or "hard-hearted," but rather is a person who can be persuaded by rational argument.
Vertebral Artery Dissection and Posterior Stroke in a Child
Authors: Halevy Ayelet , Konen Osnat , Straussberg Rachel , Michowitz S.D. , Shuper Avinoam
Published: February 2008

Vertebral artery dissection is a relatively rare disease. Its symptoms and signs can be misleading, making the diagnosis, even with imaging assistance, difficult. We describe an 8-year-old boy in whom a brain tumor was suspected because of neurological signs and findings on computerized tomography of the brain. The differential diagnosis was broadened with further imaging evaluation. Magnetic resonance angiography demonstrated vertebral artery dissection, which was attributed to a trivial trauma the child had experienced 1 week before presentation. During the follow-up period, the child recovered, except for residual right hemianopsia.
Modeling and Numerical Analysis of a Circular Piezoelectric Actuator for Valveless Micropumps
Authors: Qifeng Cui  , Chengliang Liu  , Zha Xuan F.
Published: February 2008

This article investigates mechanical behavior of a circular piezoelectric actuator for valveless micropumps. An analytical equation for analyzing the deflection of multi-layer piezoelectric structure is derived based on the electro-elastic theory and the thin plate theory. We assume that the distribution of electric potential along the thickness direction is governed by the square law to satisfy the Maxwell static electricity equation. The validity of the proposed analytical model is further studied by using the ANSYS software. Furthermore, the effects of the dimensions and material properties of a multi-layer piezoelectric structure on its deflection are analyzed for optimal design of the actuator. The simulation results show that the thickness ratio of the piezoelectric layer and the passive plate in the multi-layer structure can be optimized to obtain the largest deflection. The important design parameters of the piezoelectric actuator, such as the passive plate properties and material, and the piezoelectric layer dimension and material, and the bonding layer dimension and its excitation voltage, should be selected to improve the performance of the valveless micropump.