bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison between protein profiles of B cell subpopulations and mantle cell lymphoma cells
Authors: Stranneheim Henrik , Orre Lukas M , Lehtiö Janne , Flygare Jenny
Published: November 2009

Background

B-cell lymphomas are thought to reflect different stages of B-cell maturation. Based on cytogenetics and molecular markers, mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is presumed to derive predominantly from naïve, pre-germinal centre (pre-GC) B lymphocytes. The aim of this study was to develop a method to investigate the similarity between MCL cells and different B-cell compartments on a protein expression level.

Methods

Subpopulations of B cells representing the germinal centre (GC), the pre-GC mantle zone and the post-GC marginal zone were isolated from tonsils using automated magnetic cell sorting (AutoMACS) of cells based on their expression of CD27 and IgD. Protein profiling of the B cell subsets, of cell lines representing different lymphomas and of primary MCL samples was performed using top-down proteomics profiling by surface-enhanced laser detection/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS).

Results

Quantitative MS data of significant protein peaks (p-value < 0.05) separating the three B-cell subpopulations were generated. Together, hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the primary MCL samples clustered together with the pre- and post-GC subpopulations. Both primary MCL cells and MCL cell lines were clearly separated from the B cells representing the GC compartment.

Conclusion

AutoMACS sorting generates sufficient purity to enable a comparison between protein profiles of B cell subpopulations and malignant B lymphocytes applying SELDI-TOF-MS. Further validation with an increased number of patient samples and identification of differentially expressed proteins would enable a search for possible treatment targets that are expressed during the early development of MCL.
Disruption of the maxi-K-caveolin-1 interaction alters current expression in human myometrial cells
Authors: Brainard Adam M , Korovkina Victoria P , England Sarah K
Published: November 2009

Background

One determinant of the total K+ myometrial smooth muscle cell (MSMC) current is the large conductance, calcium- and voltage-activated potassium channel (maxi-K channel). This channel provides a repolarizing current in response to excitatory stimuli, most notably in response to increases in the levels of intracellular Ca2+, and blocking the channel by pharmacological means induces the depolarization of MSMCs and also enhances contraction strength. In MSMCs, maxi-K channels can reside in the caveolae, where they associate with the scaffolding protein caveolin-1 (cav-1). The aim of this study was to investigate the consequences of this interaction - more specifically, how disruption of the association between the maxi-K channel and cav-1 may influence the current expression and excitability of myometrial cells - with the aim of better understanding the mechanisms that underlie the regulation of normal and aberrant uterine function.

Methods

Myometrial biopsies were collected from women undergoing elective C-sections. From these samples, myometrial cells were isolated, cultured, infected with a virus containing either caveolin-1 (cav-1) siRNA or scrambled cav-1 siRNA, and finally subjected to patch-clamp analysis. Mutant caveolin-binding site maxi-K channel constructs were generated and transfected into mouse Ltk- fibroblasts. Channel activity, expression, association, and localization were examined by patch-clamping, Western blot, immunoprecipitation, and immunofluorescence, respectively.

Results

The caveolin-1 siRNA suppressed the total K+ current in human myometrial smooth muscle cells (hMSMC), as evident from comparison to the currents generated by both non-infected cells and cells infected with scrambled siRNA controls. The interaction between the maxi-K channel and caveolin depends on a region in the channel's C-terminal caveolin-binding site. Mutations of aromatic residues in this site (mutant F1012A, mutant Y1007A, F1012A and mutant Y1007A, F1012A, Y1015A) resulted in a decrease in K+ current compared to that produced by wild-type channels transfected into mouse Ltk- fibroblasts. However, mutation of all three aromatic amino acids (mutant Y1007A, F1012A, Y1015A) was necessary to disrupt the association between caveolin and the maxi-K channel, as visualized by immunofluorescence and immunoprecipitation.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that disruption of the caveolin-binding site interferes with the cav-1/maxi-K channel interaction, and that lack of the cav-1/maxi-K channel interaction in MSMCs attenuates the total K+ channel current of the cell.
Differential requirement for MEK Partner 1 in DU145 prostate cancer cell migration
Authors: Park Electa R , Pullikuth Ashok K , Bailey Evangeline M , Mercante Donald E , Catling Andrew D
Published: November 2009

ERK signaling regulates focal adhesion disassembly during cell movement, and increased ERK signaling frequently contributes to enhanced motility of human tumor cells. We previously found that the ERK scaffold MEK Partner 1 (MP1) is required for focal adhesion disassembly in fibroblasts. Here we test the hypothesis that MP1-dependent ERK signaling regulates motility of DU145 prostate cancer cells. We find that MP1 is required for motility on fibronectin, but not for motility stimulated by serum or EGF. Surprisingly, MP1 appears not to function through its known binding partners MEK1 or PAK1, suggesting the existence of a novel pathway by which MP1 can regulate motility on fibronectin. MP1 may function by regulating the stability or expression of paxillin, a key regulator of motility.
Dynamics of viral replication in blood and lymphoid tissues during SIVmac251 infection of macaques
Authors: Mannioui Abdelkrim , Bourry Olivier , Sellier Pierre , Delache Benoit , Brochard Patricia , Andrieu Thibault , Vaslin Bruno , Karlsson Ingrid , Roques Pierre , Le Grand Roger
Published: November 2009

Background

Extensive studies of primary infection are crucial to our understanding of the course of HIV disease. In SIV-infected macaques, a model closely mimicking HIV pathogenesis, we used a combination of three markers -- viral RNA, 2LTR circles and viral DNA -- to evaluate viral replication and dissemination simultaneously in blood, secondary lymphoid tissues, and the gut during primary and chronic infections. Subsequent viral compartmentalization in the main target cells of the virus in peripheral blood during the chronic phase of infection was evaluated by cell sorting and viral quantification with the three markers studied.

Results

The evolutions of viral RNA, 2LTR circles and DNA levels were correlated in a given tissue during primary and early chronic infection. The decrease in plasma viral load principally reflects a large decrease in viral replication in gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), with viral RNA and DNA levels remaining stable in the spleen and peripheral lymph nodes. Later, during chronic infection, a progressive depletion of central memory CD4+ T cells from the peripheral blood was observed, accompanied by high levels of viral replication in the cells of this subtype. The virus was also found to replicate at this point in the infection in naive CD4+ T cells. Viral RNA was frequently detected in monocytes, but no SIV replication appeared to occur in these cells, as no viral DNA or 2LTR circles were detected.

Conclusion

We demonstrated the persistence of viral replication and dissemination, mostly in secondary lymphoid tissues, during primary and early chronic infection. During chronic infection, the central memory CD4+ T cells were the major site of viral replication in peripheral blood, but viral replication also occurred in naive CD4+ T cells. The role of monocytes seemed to be limited to carrying the virus as a cargo because there was an observed lack of replication in these cells. These data may have important implications for the targeting of HIV treatment to these diverse compartments.
Association between the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase C677T polymorphism and hepatocellular carcinoma risk: a meta-analysis
Authors: Jin Fei , Qu Li-Shuai , Shen Xi-Zhong
Published: November 2009

Background

Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a key enzyme in the metabolism of folate. The non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (nsSNP), C677T (Ala>Val, rs1801133), has been verified to impair enzyme activity. The association with cancer susceptibility, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), has also been widely studied. The results, however, were inconsistent. To shed light on the influence of MTHFR C677T polymorphism on HCC, a meta-analysis was conducted.

Methods

The meta-analysis of C677T consisted of 10 studies (1814 cases/2862 controls). The association was measured by using random-effect (RE) or fixed-effect (FE) odds ratio (OR) combined with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) according to the studies' heterogeneity.

Results

Using genetic model analysis, C677T polymorphism was found to increase the risk of HCC in a complete overdominant model, which indicates that heterozygotes CT are at a lesser risk of HCC than either homozygotes CC or TT. Meta-analyses of the 10 studies showed that the TT genotype increased the risk of HCC as compared to the CT genotype: FE OR was 1.20 (95%CI: 1.00-1.45, p for heterogeneity = 0.21). When subgroup analysis was done between the HCC cases and the chronic liver disease (CLD) patients of four studies, meta-analysis showed that individuals with the TT genotype had increased HCC risk compared with those with the CT genotype: FE OR (TT vs. CT) reached 1.81 (1.22-2.71, p for heterogeneity = 0.25). Meanwhile, the C677T polymorphism also increased HCC risk in a recessive model when cases were compared to CLD patients of four studies: RE OR reached 1.85 (95%CI: 1.00-3.42, p for heterogeneity = 0.06). Overall, there was some extent heterogeneity when analyses were performed in various models. There was no publication bias.

Conclusion

MTHFR C677T polymorphism increased the risk of HCC in an overdominant model, and might be a risk factor for HCC occurrence, especially in CLD patients. The association warranted further studies.
Tape-Arabidopsis Sandwich - a simpler Arabidopsis protoplast isolation method
Authors: Wu Fu-Hui , Shen Shu-Chen , Lee Lan-Ying , Lee Shu-Hong , Chan Ming-Tsar , Lin Choun-Sea
Published: November 2009

Background

Protoplasts isolated from leaves are useful materials in plant research. One application, the transient expression of recombinant genes using Arabidopsis mesophyll protoplasts (TEAMP), is currently commonly used for studies of subcellular protein localization, promoter activity, and in vivo protein-protein interactions. This method requires cutting leaves into very thin slivers to collect mesophyll cell protoplasts, a procedure that often causes cell damage, may yield only a few good protoplasts, and is time consuming. In addition, this protoplast isolation method normally requires a large number of leaves derived from plants grown specifically under low-light conditions, which may be a concern when material availability is limited such as with mutant plants, or in large scale experiments.

Results

In this report, we present a new procedure that we call the Tape-Arabidopsis Sandwich. This is a simple and fast mesophyll protoplast isolation method. Two kinds of tape (Time tape adhered to the upper epidermis and 3 M Magic tape to the lower epidermis) are used to make a "Tape-Arabidopsis Sandwich". The Time tape supports the top side of the leaf during manipulation, while tearing off the 3 M Magic tape allows easy removal of the lower epidermal layer and exposes mesophyll cells to cell wall digesting enzymes when the leaf is later incubated in an enzyme solution. The protoplasts released into solution are collected and washed for further use. For TEAMP, plasmids carrying a gene expression cassette for a fluorescent protein can be successfully delivered into protoplasts isolated from mature leaves grown under optimal conditions. Alternatively, these protoplasts may be used for bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) to investigate protein-protein interactions in vivo, or for Western blot analysis. A significant advantage of this protocol over the current method is that it allows the generation of protoplasts in less than 1 hr, and allows TEAMP transfection to be carried out within 2 hr.

Conclusion

The protoplasts generated by this new Tape-Arabidopsis Sandwich method are suitable for the same range of research applications as those that use the current method, but require less operator skill, equipment and time.
The long term effects of early analysis of a trauma registry
Authors: Shaban Sami , Ashour Mazen , Bashir Masoud , El-Ashaal Yousef , Branicki Frank , Abu-Zidan Fikri M
Published: November 2009

Background

We established a trauma registry in 2003 to collect data on trauma patients, which is a major cause of death in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The aim of this paper is to report on the long term effects of our early analysis of this registry.

Methods

Data in the early stages of this trauma registry were collected for 503 patients during a period of 6 months in 2003. Data was collected on a paper form and then entered into the trauma registry using a self-developed Access database. Descriptive analysis was performed.

Results

Most were males (87%), the mean age (SD) was 30.5 (14.9). UAE citizens formed 18.5%. Road traffic collisions caused an overwhelming 34.2% of injuries with 29.7% of those involving UAE citizens while work-related injuries were 26.2%. The early analysis of this registry had two major impacts. Firstly, the alarmingly high rate of UAE nationals in road traffic collisions standardized to the population led to major concerns and to the development of a specialized road traffic collision registry three years later. Second, the equally alarming high rate of work-related injuries led to collaboration with a Preventive Medicine team who helped with refining data elements of the trauma registry to include data important for research in trauma prevention.

Conclusion

Analysis of a trauma registry as early as six months can lead to useful information which has long term effects on the progress of trauma research and prevention.
Maximum lying bout duration affects the occurrence of shoulder lesions in sows
Authors: Rolandsdotter Elin , Westin Rebecka , Algers Bo
Published: November 2009

Shoulder lesions are caused by tissue breakdown of the skin and/or underlying tissue as a result of long lasting pressure. The lesions are commonly seen in sows during the period of lactation and contribute to poor animal welfare as well as affecting the consumers' attitudes towards the swine industry. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between prolonged recumbency during early lactation and development of shoulder lesions, in particular the lying bout time. Eighteen sows of Swedish Landrace were observed for 24 hours during the day of farrowing and day 2, 4, 9 and 11 after farrowing in May 2009. The data were analysed for correlations between the duration of the longest observed uninterrupted lying bout and the prevalence of shoulder lesions recorded at weaning (week 5).

In the study, shoulder lesions were observed in eight of the eighteen sows at the time of weaning. The total lying time of the sows was highest on day 0 and day 2, when the proportion of time spent in lateral recumbency over the 24-hour period was on average 80 percent. The longest lying bout had an average duration of 6,3 hours (right side) and 7,2 hours (left side). A significant correlation (Spearman rank coefficient = 0,88; P < 0,05) was found between the duration of the longest observed uninterrupted lying bout and the occurrence of shoulder lesions on right side among well conditioned sows with a low amount of straw present at farrowing. This suggests that avoiding prolonged uninterrupted recumbency contributes to the prevention of shoulder lesions in sows.
Isolation and molecular characterization of multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria from imported flamingos in Japan
Authors: Sato Maiko , Ahmed Ashraf M , Noda Ayako , Watanabe Hitoshi , Fukumoto Yukio , Shimamoto Tadashi
Published: November 2009

Imported animals, especially those from developing countries, may constitute a potential hazard to native animals and to public health. In this study, a new flock of lesser flamingos imported from Tanzania to Hiroshima Zoological Park were screened for multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, integrons and antimicrobial resistance genes. Thirty-seven Gram-negative bacterial isolates were obtained from the flamingos. Seven isolates (18.9%) showed multidrug resistance phenotypes, the most common being against: ampicillin, streptomycin, tetracycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole and nalidixic acid. Molecular analyses identified class 1 and class 2 integrons, β-lactamase-encoding genes, bla
TEM-1 and bla
CTX-M-2 and the plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance genes, qnrS and qnrB. This study highlights the role of animal importation in the dissemination of multidrug-resistant bacteria, integrons and antimicrobial resistance genes from one country to another.
The expression and significance of P-glycoprotein, lung resistance protein and multidrug resistance-associated protein in gastric cancer
Authors: Hu Wen-Qing , Peng Chun-Wei , Li Yan
Published: November 2009

Background

To detect the expression of multidrug resistance molecules P-glycoprotein (P-gp), Lung resistnce protein (LRP) and Multidrug resistance-associated protein (MRP) and analyze the relationship between them and the clinico-pathological features.

Methods

The expressions of P-gp, LRP and MRP in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections from 59 gastric cancer patients were determined by a labbelled Streptavidin-Peroxidase (SP) immunohistochemical technique, and the results were analyzed in correlation with clinicopathological data. None of these patients received chemotherapy prior to surgery.

Results

The positive rates of P-gp, LRP, MRP were 86.4%, 84.7% and 27.1%, respectively. The difference between the positive rate of P-gp and MRP was significant statistically, as well as the difference between the expression of MRP and LRP. No significant difference was observed between P-gp and LRP, but the positively correlation between the expression of P-gp and LRP had been found. No significant correlation between the expression of P-gp, LRP, MRP and the grade of differentiation were observed. The expression of P-gp was correlated with clinical stages positively (r = 0.742), but the difference with the expression of P-gp in different stages was not significant.

Conclusion

The expressions of P-gp, LRP and MRP in patients with gastric cancer without prior chemotherapy are high, indicating that innate drug resistance may exist in gastric cancer.
A severe coarctation of aorta in a 72-year-old female: a case report
Authors: Kountouris Evaggelos , Potsis Thomas , Nikas Dimitrios , Siogas Konstantinos
Published: November 2009

Aortic coarctation is a congenital malformation of the aorta usually diagnosed and corrected early in life. Long-term survival is exceptional in patients with untreated aortic coarctation. In this case report, we present a late diagnosis of aortic coarctation in a 72-year-old female. Our patient was relatively asymptomatic until she presented with exertional dyspnea and fatigue in her seventh decade of life. The patient was managed conservatively with aggressive antihypertensive medication. After the 1-year follow-up visit, the patient was in good clinical condition, without, however, adequate control of blood pressure.
Celiac disease associated membranous nephropathy - a rare cause or coincidence? A case report
Authors: Prasad Deepali , Khara Harshit S , Gupta Mohit , Sterman Paul
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Celiac disease is associated with a variety of autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes mellitus, autoimmune thyroid disorders, Sjogren's syndrome and IgA nephropathy, however membranous nephropathy is not recognized amongst one of them.

Case presentation

We report a rare case of nephrotic syndrome due to membranous nephropathy in a patient with celiac disease. A 77-years-old male patient presented with uncontrolled hypertension, anemia and acute renal failure. He was diagnosed with celiac disease and membranous nephropathy confirmed by small bowel and renal biopsy. Patient was treated with gluten free diet and immuno-suppressive therapy; however, he died within 2 to 3 months due to myocardial infarction.

Conclusion

The association between celiac disease and nephrotic syndrome is extremely rare. Only two adult patients with celiac disease and membranous nephropathy have been reported in the literature so far. Since the prevalence of celiac disease ranges between 0.75% and 4.54%, the question arises whether the coexistence of celiac disease and membranous nephropathy is just a coincidence or a rare association. As they both are immune mediated diseases, a link between them is a strong possibility.
Pulmonary lymphoma mimicking metastases: a case report
Authors: Hadda Vijay , Khilnani Gopi C , Bhalla Ashu Seith , Gupta Ruchika , Gupta Siddhartha D , Goel Ashish
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Lung mass is a common radiological finding among elderly. Bronchogenic carcinoma with metastases is the commonest cause of lung mass with multiple nodules in same or other lung seen in this age group. However, sometimes other uncommon malignancies with better prognosis can also present similarly. Primary pulmonary lymphoma is one of the rare malignancies, which have similar radiological presentation but different treatment and prognosis.

Case presentation

We present a non-smoking, elderly, diabetic man who presented with nonspecific symptoms of generalized weakness without any symptom pertaining to respiratory system. Examination of chest revealed findings suggestive of right lower lobe mass. On evaluation, he was found to have a well circumscribed lung mass on chest radiograph. Computerized tomography of chest with contrast showed a large mass involving right lung and multiple nodules in both lungs. For diagnosis, biopsy from right lung mass was done under image guidance. Histopathology revealed diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Evaluation for primary malignancy leading to lung metastases was inconclusive. Patient was advised chemotherapy.

Conclusion

Primary pulmonary lymphoma is a rare disease and can present with non specific symptoms. Radiologically, it can easily be confused with commoner malignancies like, bronchogenic carcinoma with or without metastases. Primary pulmonary lymphoma carries different therapeutic and prognostic implications. Therefore, physicians should make every effort to achieve histopathological diagnosis before prognosticating patient presenting with lung mass.
Virilizing ovarian steroid cell tumor in a 40 year old South Indian female: a case report
Authors: Salim Shihas , Shantha Ghanshyam Palamaner Subash , Patel Amish Dilip , Kumar Anita A , Ganeshram Prasanthi , Mehra Nikita , Rajan Anish George , Joseph Tarun , Sudhakar Lavangi
Published: November 2009

Virilism is the masculinization and enhancement of male secondary sexual characteristics in females. The etiology is usually of adrenal or ovarian origin. Here we report a case of virilizing Leydig cell type, steroid cell tumor of the left ovary, in a 40 year old female who presented with clinical signs and symptoms of virilization: deepening of voice, hirsutism (Ferriman-Gallwey score 26), clitoromegaly, and androgenic alopecia. On further evaluation, laboratory investigations revealed hyperandrogenism in the male range. Basal testosterone values were elevated. Folicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinising Hormone levels were within normal limits. Dexamethasone suppression test did not alter cortisol or testosterone levels. An ovarian mass was confirmed radiologically. Following a total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingoophorectomy, histopathological studies confirmed a left sided steroid-cell ovarian tumor, Leydig cell type (stage T1N0M0), which proved to the etiology of virilization in this patient. Post-operatively her serum testosterone levels declined with near-complete reversal of symptoms over time.
Streptococcus constellatus bacteremia causing septic shock following tooth extraction: a case report
Authors: Ng Kay Wei Ping , Mukhopadhyay Amartya
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Organisms of the Streptococcus milleri group consists of Streptococcus
intermedius, Streptococcus constellatus, and Streptococcus anginosus. Though they are commonly associated with abscesses, bacteremia with subsequent septic shock and mortality is infrequent.

Case presentation

We report a case of a 27-year-old Chinese man who presented with Streptococcus constellatus bacteremia following an incomplete tooth extraction resulting in septic shock.

Conclusion

Bacteremia from the Streptococcus milleri group is infrequent but must trigger the search for an underlying abscess. Knowledge of each member's predilection for different clinical presentations can aid in determining the location of the underlying source of infection.
An interdisciplinary, family-centered approach to treating pediatric obesity in an 11-year-old female: a case report
Authors: Keaschuk Rachel A , Newton Amanda S , Kaczmarek Tesia G , Ball Geoff DC
Published: November 2009

Pediatric obesity has become increasingly prevalent over the past 2-3 decades. Recently-published clinical practice guidelines and expert recommendations provide guidance for obesity treatment, but therapy is often complicated by a host of medical, behavioural, psychosocial, and interpersonal issues. We report the case of an 11-year-old obese girl and her family referred for weight management. Our case underscores the need for an interdisciplinary, family-centered approach to the assessment and treatment of pediatric obesity, and highlights the value of understanding familial complexities that often accompany this health issue. The importance of utilizing multiple health indicators to assess weight management 'success' is discussed.
Irreducible distal radial fracture due to extensor pollicis longus tendon interposition: a case report
Authors: Mohanlal Paraskumar , Jain Sunil
Published: November 2009

Various causes have been reported for irreducible fractures of the distal radius. Most of them have been reported in children.

We report a case of irreducible distal radial fracture in an 18-year-old Caucasian male patient. The fracture was not reducible by closed methods and extensor pollicis tendon was found to be interposed during surgical intervention. At one year follow-up, the patient had good radiological evidence of fracture healing and a good functional outcome.

This case report highlights the need for a high index of suspicion to rule out soft tissue interposition in cases of irreducible distal radial fractures and a low threshold for open reduction.
Inadvertent insertion of a nasogastric tube into both main bronchi of an awake patient: a case report
Authors: Takwoingi Yohanna M
Published: November 2009

The use of nasogastric tube is desirable for the short-term administration of calories when oral feeding is not possible. Although the insertion of nasogastric tubes has been described as being easy this is not without risks. An unusual case of malpositioning of a fine bore nasogastric tube into both main bronchi in a patient that was awake is reported. Respiratory complications of misplaced nasogastric tubes and the importance of a check chest x-ray following tube placement are discussed.
Malposition of subclavian vein catheter inserted through indirect technique in a pediatric liver transplantation: a case report
Authors: Coskun Demet , Mahli Ahmet , Oncul Sema , Ilvan Gizem , Dalgic Aydin
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Clinicians use either direct or indirect (Seldinger) techniques for internal juguler or subclavian vein catheterization. This report aims to point out that the success rate of the direct technique where the catheter is inserted directly through the cannula may be higher particularly in catheterization of pediatric cases.

Case presentation

A 7.5-month-old female infant weighing 7200 gm was operated on for liver transplantation. The patient suffered jaundice at one month of age and was diagnosed with neonatal colestatic hepatitis. After routine monitoring, via indirect technique, central catheterization was attempted through internal jugular vein. However, the attempt failed. Therefore, again via indirect technique, catheterization was achieved through the right subclavian vein and fixed at 8 cm. After the operation started, fluid replacement and central venous pressure monitoring were performed with this catheter. Immediately after the operation, a control postero-anterior chest radiograph of the patient was obtained. This graph revealed that the tip of the catheter was fixed in the right internal jugular vein. Since the vital symptoms of the patient were not stable, the catheter was not removed and fluid replacement was performed via this technique. The catheter was removed on the postoperative 2ndday.

Conclusion

The J wire advanced via the indirect technique advances anatomically following the upper wall of subclavian vein. Because of the smaller vessel dimensions and sharper, more angulated routes the subclavian and internal jugular veins make in infants, the rigid J wire may advance in the cephalic direction. However, in the technique where the catheter (Cavafix®catheter) is inserted directly through the cannula, this probability is less since J wire is not used and the catheter employed is flexible. We concluded that especially in pediatric cases, employment of the technique where the catheter is inserted directly through the cannula would be more convenient in order to decrease the catheter malpositioning probability.
CTLA4-Ig interacts with cultured synovial macrophages from rheumatoid arthritis patients and downregulates cytokine production
Authors: Cutolo Maurizio , Soldano Stefano , Montagna Paola , Sulli Alberto , Seriolo Bruno , Villaggio Barbara , Triolo Pierfranco , Clerico Paolo , Felli Lamberto , Brizzolara Renata
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Co-stimulatory signal B7(CD80/CD86):CD28 is needed in order to activate T cells in immune response. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen-4-immunoglobulin (CTLA4-Ig) binding to the B7 molecules on antigen-presenting cells downregulates this activation and represents a recent biological treatment in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Objectives of the study were to investigate the presence of the B7.2 (CD86) molecule and its masking by CTLA4-Ig on cultures of both RA synovial macrophages (RA SM), and of macrophages differentiated from THP-1 cells (M). In addition, the anti-inflammatory effects of CTLA4-Ig on co-cultures of RA SM and M with activated T cells were tested.

Methods

All macrophages were co-cultured for 24 hours with activated T cells, without or with CTLA4-Ig (10, 100, 500 μg/ml for 1 hour, 3 hours and overnight, respectively). Immunofluorescence (IF) staining for B7.2, and an analysis of inflammatory cytokine expression (interleukin (IL) -6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, IL-1β, transforming growth factor (TGF) β) by immunocytochemistry (ICC), western blot (WB) and reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were performed.

Results

Macrophages showed intense B7.2 expression. CTLA4-Ig/B7.2 masking was evident for all macrophages, even after only 1 hour of cell culture (range from 10 to 100 μg/ml). ICC of co-cultures showed a dose-dependent decrease in inflammatory cytokines (P < 0.001 for IL-6, TNFα, IL-1β and TGFβ). Data were confirmed by WB and RT-PCR analysis.

Conclusions

Optimal concentrations of CTLA4-Ig for the CTLA4-Ig/B7.2 masking on activated macrophages were identified and were found to induce significant downregulation in the cell production of IL-6, TNFα, IL1-β and TGFβ. In conclusion, macrophages would appear to be a sensitive target for CTLA4-Ig treatment in RA.
Effect of fluid resuscitation on mortality and organ function in experimental sepsis models
Authors: Brandt Sebastian , Regueira Tomas , Bracht Hendrik , Porta Francesca , Djafarzadeh Siamak , Takala Jukka , Gorrasi José , Borotto Erika , Krejci Vladimir , Hiltebrand Luzius B , Bruegger Lukas E , Beldi Guido , Wilkens Ludwig , Lepper Philipp M , Kessler Ulf , Jakob Stephan M
Published: November 2009

Introduction

Several recent studies have shown that a positive fluid balance in critical illness is associated with worse outcome. We tested the effects of moderate vs. high-volume resuscitation strategies on mortality, systemic and regional blood flows, mitochondrial respiration, and organ function in two experimental sepsis models.

Methods

48 pigs were randomized to continuous endotoxin infusion, fecal peritonitis, and a control group (n = 16 each), and each group further to two different basal rates of volume supply for 24 hours [moderate-volume (10 ml/kg/h, Ringer's lactate, n = 8); high-volume (15 + 5 ml/kg/h, Ringer's lactate and hydroxyethyl starch (HES), n = 8)], both supplemented by additional volume boli, as guided by urinary output, filling pressures, and responses in stroke volume. Systemic and regional hemodynamics were measured and tissue specimens taken for mitochondrial function assessment and histological analysis.

Results

Mortality in high-volume groups was 87% (peritonitis), 75% (endotoxemia), and 13% (controls). In moderate-volume groups mortality was 50% (peritonitis), 13% (endotoxemia) and 0% (controls). Both septic groups became hyperdynamic. While neither sepsis nor volume resuscitation strategy was associated with altered hepatic or muscle mitochondrial complex I- and II-dependent respiration, non-survivors had lower hepatic complex II-dependent respiratory control ratios (2.6 +/- 0.7, vs. 3.3 +/- 0.9 in survivors; P = 0.01). Histology revealed moderate damage in all organs, colloid plaques in lung tissue of high-volume groups, and severe kidney damage in endotoxin high-volume animals.

Conclusions

High-volume resuscitation including HES in experimental peritonitis and endotoxemia increased mortality despite better initial hemodynamic stability. This suggests that the strategy of early fluid management influences outcome in sepsis. The high mortality was not associated with reduced mitochondrial complex I- or II-dependent muscle and hepatic respiration.
COMIT: identification of noncoding motifs under selection in coding sequences
Authors: Kural Deniz , Ding Yang , Wu Jiantao , Korpi Alicia M , Chuang Jeffrey H
Published: November 2009

Coding nucleotide sequences contain myriad functions independent of their encoded protein sequences. We present the COMIT algorithm to detect functional noncoding motifs in coding regions using sequence conservation, explicitly separating nucleotide from amino acid effects. COMIT concurs with diverse experimental datasets, including splicing enhancers, silencers, replication motifs, and microRNA targets, and predicts many novel functional motifs. Intriguingly, COMIT scores are well-correlated to scores uncalibrated for amino acids, suggesting that nucleotide motifs often override peptide-level constraints.
Expansion of the human mitochondrial proteome by intra- and inter-compartmental protein duplication
Authors: Szklarczyk Radek , Huynen Martijn A
Published: November 2009

Background

Mitochondria are highly complex, membrane-enclosed organelles that are essential to the eukaryotic cell. The experimental elucidation of organellar proteomes combined with the sequencing of complete genomes allows us to trace the evolution of the mitochondrial proteome.

Results

We present a systematic analysis of the evolution of mitochondria via gene duplication in the human lineage. The most common duplications are intra-mitochondrial, in which the ancestral gene and the daughter genes encode mitochondrial proteins. These duplications significantly expanded carbohydrate metabolism, the protein import machinery and the calcium regulation of mitochondrial activity. The second most prevalent duplication, inter-compartmental, extended the catalytic as well as the RNA processing repertoire by the novel mitochondrial localization of the protein encoded by one of the daughter genes. Evaluation of the phylogenetic distribution of N-terminal targeting signals suggests a prompt gain of the novel localization after inter-compartmental duplication. Relocalized duplicates are more often expressed in a tissue-specific manner relative to intra-mitochondrial duplicates and mitochondrial proteins in general. In a number of cases, inter-compartmental duplications can be observed in parallel in yeast and human lineages leading to the convergent evolution of subcellular compartments.

Conclusions

One-to-one human-yeast orthologs are typically restricted to their ancestral subcellular localization. Gene duplication relaxes this constraint on the cellular location, allowing nascent proteins to be relocalized to other compartments. We estimate that the mitochondrial proteome expanded at least 50% since the common ancestor of human and yeast.
Predictors of Competing Mortality in Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Mell Loren K. , Dignam James J. , Salama Joseph K. , Cohen Ezra E.W. , Polite Blase N. , Dandekar Virag , Bhate Amit D. , Witt Mary Ellyn , Haraf Daniel J. , Mittal Bharat B. , Vokes Everett E. , Weichselbaum Ralph R.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

Death from noncancer causes (competing mortality) is an important event in head and neck cancer, but studies identifying predictors of this event are lacking. We sought to identify predictors of competing mortality and develop a risk stratification model for competing events.

Patients and Methods

Cohort study of 479 patients with stage III to IV carcinoma of the head and neck diagnosed between August 1993 and November 2004. Patients were treated on consecutive prospective clinical trials involving organ-preserving chemoradiotherapy and surgery. We used multivariable competing risks regression models to analyze factors associated with the cumulative incidence of competing mortality, locoregional and distant failure, and second malignancies as first events.

Results

Median follow-up was 52 months median for survivors. The 5-year cumulative incidence of competing mortality was 19.6% (95% CI, 15.8 to 23.4). On multivariable analysis, competing mortality was associated with female sex (hazard ratio [HR], 1.72; 95% CI, 1.13 to 2.63), increasing age (HR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.04 to 1.62), increasing Charlson Comorbidity Index (HR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.47), decreasing body mass index (HR, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.13 to 0.84), and decreasing distance traveled to the treating center (HR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.44 to 0.98). Patients with zero, one, two, and ≥ three risk factors had 5-year competing mortality of 8.9% (95% CI, 3.0% to 14.8%), 12.4% (95% CI, 7.0% to 17.8%), 22.1% (95% CI, 14.5% to 29.7%), and 39.3% (95% CI, 28.6% to 50.1%), respectively.

Conclusion

Competing mortality in advanced head and neck cancer is associated with several demographic and health status characteristics. Analyses of risk factors for competing mortality may be useful in outcomes reporting and designing clinical trials.
Evaluating Overall Survival and Competing Risks of Death in Patients With Localized Renal Cell Carcinoma Using a Comprehensive Nomogram
Authors: Kutikov Alexander , Egleston Brian L. , Wong Yu-Ning , Uzzo Robert G.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

Many patients with localized node-negative renal cell carcinoma (RCC) are elderly with competing comorbidities. Their overall survival benefit after surgical treatment is unknown. We reviewed cases in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database to evaluate the impact of kidney cancer versus competing causes of death in patients with localized RCC and develop a comprehensive nomogram to quantitate survival differences.

Methods

We identified individuals with localized, surgically treated clear-cell, papillary, or chromophobe RCC in SEER (1988 through 2003). We used Fine and Gray competing risks proportional hazards regressions to predict 5-year probabilities of three competing mortality outcomes: kidney cancer death, other cancer death, and noncancer death.

Results

We identified 30,801 cases of localized RCC (median age, 62 years; median tumor size, 4.5 cm). Five-year probabilities of kidney cancer death, other cancer death, and noncancer death were 4%, 7%, and 11%, respectively. Age was strongly predictive of mortality and most predictive of nonkidney cancer deaths (P < .001). Increasing tumor size was related to death from RCC and inversely related to noncancer deaths (P < .001). Racial differences in outcomes were most pronounced for nonkidney cancer deaths (P < .001). Men were more likely to die than women from all causes (P < .002). This nomogram integrates commonly available factors into a useful tool for comparing competing risks of death.

Conclusion

Management of localized RCC must consider competing causes of mortality, particularly in elderly populations. Effective decision making requires treatment trade-off calculations. We present a tool to quantitate competing causes of mortality in patients with localized RCC.
Early-Stage, Lymphocyte-Predominant Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Patient Outcomes From a Large, Single-Institution Series With Long Follow-Up
Authors: Chen Ronald C. , Chin Michael S. , Ng Andrea K. , Feng Yang , Neuberg Donna , Silver Barbara , Pinkus Geraldine S. , Stevenson Mary Ann , Mauch Peter M.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The optimal treatment for early-stage, lymphocyte-predominant Hodgkin's lymphoma (LPHL) is not well defined. Treatment has become less aggressive over time in an attempt to reduce iatrogenic complications, such as cardiac mortality and second cancers, but long-term efficacy is unclear. We present the long-term outcome of patients treated at a single institution.

Patients and Methods

The study population includes 113 patients with stage I or II LPHL treated between 1970 and 2005. Pathologic diagnosis for all patients was confirmed using standard criteria. Ninety-three patients received radiation therapy (RT) alone, 13 received RT with chemotherapy, and seven received chemotherapy alone. Among patients treated with RT, 25 received limited-field, 35 received regional-field, and 46 received extended-field RT.

Results

Median follow-up was 136 months. Ten-year progression-free survival (PFS) rates were 85% (stage I) and 61% (stage II); overall survival (OS) rates were 94% and 97% for stages I and II, respectively. PFS and OS did not differ among patients who received limited-field, regional-field, or extended-field RT. In contrast, six of seven patients who received chemotherapy alone without RT developed early disease progression and required salvage treatment. Multivariable analysis adjusting for extent of RT, clinical stage, sex, and use of chemotherapy confirmed that the extent of RT was not significantly associated with PFS (P = .67) or OS (P = .99). The addition of chemotherapy to RT did not improve PFS or OS compared with RT alone.

Conclusion

RT alone leads to sustained disease control and high long-term survival rates in patients with early-stage LPHL. This study supports the use of limited-field RT alone to treat this disease.
Paradoxes in Advance Care Planning: The Complex Relationship of Oncology Patients, Their Physicians, and Advance Medical Directives
Authors: Dow Lindsay A. , Matsuyama Robin K. , Ramakrishnan V. , Kuhn Laura , Lamont Elizabeth B. , Lyckholm Laurel , Smith Thomas J.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

Many seriously ill patients with cancer do not discuss prognosis or advance directives (ADs), which may lead to inappropriate and/or unwanted aggressive care at the end of life. Ten years ago, patients with cancer said they would not like to discuss ADs with their oncologist but would be willing to discuss them with an admitting physician. We assessed whether this point of view still held.

Patients and Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 75 consecutively admitted patients with cancer in the cancer inpatient service.

Results

Of those enrolled, 41% (31 of 75) had an AD. Nearly all (87%, 65 of 75) thought it acceptable to discuss ADs with the admitting physician with whom they had no prior relationship, and 95% (62 of 65) thought that discussing AD issues was very or somewhat important. Only 7% (5 of 75) had discussed ADs with their oncologist, and only 23% (16 of 70) would like to discuss ADs with their oncologist. When specifically asked which physician they would choose, 48% (36 of 75) of patients would prefer their oncologist, and 35% (26 of 75) would prefer their primary care physician.

Conclusion

Fewer than half of seriously ill patients with cancer admitted to an oncology service have an AD. Only 23% (16 of 70) would like to discuss their ADs with their oncologist but nearly all supported a policy of discussing ADs with their admitting physician. However, fully 48% (36 of 75) actually preferred to discuss advance directives with their oncologist if AD discussion was necessary. We must educate patients on why communicating their ADs is beneficial and train primary care physicians, house staff, hospitalists, and oncologists to initiate these difficult discussions.
Formation of Anhydroglucose in Ionic Liquids by Microwave Heating—Temperature and Chloride Ion Effects—
Authors: Satoh Hiroe , Kaga Harumi , Kakuchi Toyoji , Satoh Toshifumi , Takahashi Kenji
Published: November 2009

It is found that the dehydration of glucose to anhydroglucose, such as 1,6-anhydro-β-d-glucopyranose and 1,6-anhydro-β-d-glucofuranose, proceeds very effectively in hydrophobic ionic liquids, for example ionic liquid N,N-diethyl-N-(2-methoxyethyl)-N-methylammonium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)amide, without any catalysts at high temperature. On the other hand, addition of a small amount of an ionic liquid with chloride anion reduces the yield of the anhydroglucose significantly.
Tantalum-based Compounds Prepared by Reactive Sputtering as a New Non-platinum Cathode for PEFC
Authors: Kikuchi Akifumi , Ishihara Akimitsu , Matsuzawa Koichi , Mitsushima Shigenori , Ota Ken-ichiro
Published: November 2009

Tantalum-based compounds prepared by reactive sputtering with heating were evaluated as novel non-platinum cathodes for polymer electrolyte fuel cells. Effects of species of target, TaC and TaN, and the oxygen partial pressure on catalytic activity for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) were investigated. We found that TaC target was more useful than TaN to prepare specimens with high ORR activity. In addition, the existence of an appropriate amount of O2 was needed with the TaC target to obtain superior catalytic activity for the ORR. XRD and TOF-SIMS analysis suggested that crystalline structure of TaON (monoclinic) and carbon on the surface might affect the catalytic activity for the ORR.
Effects of Alkyl Length in Ligands in Mixed Valence MMX Complexes: Properties of Pt2(n-HexCS2)4I (n-Hex = n-Hexyl Group)
Authors: Ikeuchi Satoaki , Yamamura Yasuhisa , Mitsumi Minoru , Toriumi Koshiro , Saitoh Hideki , Atake Tooru , Saito Kazuya
Published: November 2009

The title compound newly synthesized shows a quite different physical properties from similar compounds having shorter alkyl chains in alkyl dithiocarboxylato ligands. This finding demonstrates an important role of ligands and their dynamics in designing physical properties of inorganic complexes.
Demonstrations of NMR Quantum Information Processing Utilizing 31P Nuclei of Phosphorus Heterocycles
Authors: Ito Shigekazu , Momozaki Taro , Kishimoto Yuta , Abe Jiro , Iwahori Fumiyasu
Published: November 2009

31P NMR data of a 1,4-diphosphafulvene (alkylidene-2,3-dihydro-1H-1,3-diphosphole) and a 3,4-dihydro-1,3,4-triphosphacyclopenta[a]indene, bearing two or three chemically inequivalent phosphorus nuclei, were promising to be applicable for solution 31P NMR quantum information processing, and demonstrations including implementation of the Deutsch–Jozsa algorithm with 31P nuclei were examined.