bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast spin‐echo imaging of the temporomandibular joint
Authors: Rao Vijay M. , Vinitski Simon , Liem Marina , Rapoport Robert
Published: March 2007

The applicability of a fast spin‐echo (PSE) technique for magnetic resonance imaging of the tem‐poromandibular joint (TMJ) was studied, and the technique compared with a conventional spin‐echo (CSE) technique. Sagittal Tl‐weighted CSE and dual‐echo FSE images of 50 TMJs in 25 patients with symptoms of internal TMJ derangement were compared. CSE and FSE images were diagnostically comparable in 22 TMJs (44%). The FSE technique was rated better than CSE imaging for delineation of the disk in 26 joints (52%), whereas the CSE technique was rated better in only two joints (4%). The FSE technique was preferred overall in 54% of the joints. Mild to moderate joint effusion was detected in 17 joints because additional T2‐weighted data were provided with the dual‐echo FSE technique. The study showed that FSE imaging is an effective technique for evaluation of the TMJ. It is faster and diagnostically comparable to or better than CSE imaging, with the added advantage of providing T2‐weighted data.
Segmentation of small structures in MR images: Semiautomated tissue hydration measurement
Authors: Koechner Donna , Petropoulos Helen , Eaton R. Philip , Hart Blaine L. , Brooks William M.
Published: March 2007

Segmentation of small anatomic structures In noisy magnetic resonance (MR) images is inherently challenging because the edge Information is contained in the same high‐frequency image component as the noise. The authors overcame this obstacle in the analysis of the sural nerve in the ankle by processing images to reduce noise and extracting edges with an edge detection algorithm less sensitive to noise. Anatomic accuracy of the segmentation was confirmed by a neuroradiologist. A nerve hydration coefficient was determined from the signal intensity of the nerve in these segmented images. These semiautomated measurements of hydration agreed closely with those obtained with a previously described manual method (n=44, P=.76). Each image in the study was analyzed identically, with no modification of the computer algorithm parameters. The data suggest that this robust method may be useful in a multicenter evaluation of diabetes treatment protocols.
Mr cholangiopancreatography: Comparison between two‐dimensional fast spin‐echo and three‐dimensional gradient‐echo pulse sequences
Authors: Reinhold Caroline , Guibaud Laurent , Genin Gilles , Bret Patrice M.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of our study was to perform a prospective comparative analysis of three‐dimensional (3D) steady‐state free precession (SSFP) and two‐dimensional (2D) fast spin‐echo (FSB) imaging in the evaluation of 26 patients with suspected bile duct obstruction. SSFP and highly T2‐weighted FSB sequences were obtained for each patient in multiple planes. Both sequences were reviewed independently and results were compared with findings from direct cholangiography (n = 17) or from a combination of sonography and CT (n = 9). The extrahepatic bile duct (EHBD) and intrahepatic bile duct (IHBD) were dilated In 32% and 54% of patients, respectively. The EHBDs were visualized in 44% of patients with SSFP. versus in 96% with FSE. One or more IHBD segments were seen In 42% of the SSFP sequences and in 100% of the FSB sequences. A portion of, or the entire, pancreatic duct was seen in 23% of the SSFP sequences and in 65% of the FSE sequences. Our findings lead us to conclude that T2‐weighted FSE sequences are superior to SSFP sequences In visualizing the biliary tree and pancreatic duct and that they should replace gradient‐echo sequences in MR Cholangiopancreatography.
A segmented k‐space velocity mapping protocol for quantification of renal artery blood plow during breath‐holding
Authors: Thomsen C. , Cortsen M. , Söndergaard L. , Henriksen O. , Ståhlberg F.
Published: March 2007

Two Important prerequisites for MR velocity mapping of pulsatile motion are synchronization of the sequence execution to the time course of the flow pattern and robustness toward loss of signal in complex flow fields. Synchronization is normally accomplished by using either prospective ECG triggering or so‐called retrospective gating. However, if the studied vessel moves periodically in space as a result of respiratory motion, as in the case of renal arteries, a second synchronization with respect to the vessel motion in space may be necessary. One method to overcome this problem is to use the segmented k‐space technique, in which the entire data acquisition can be made within a breath‐hold by the sampling of several phase‐encoding lines within a small time window during each heart cycle. The aim of this study was to investigate the performance of a segmented k‐space velocity mapping protocol for renal artery flow determination. The protocol uses 16 phase‐encoding lines per heart beat during 16 heart cycles and gives a temporal velocity resolution of 160 msec. Comparison with a conventional ECG‐triggered velocity mapping protocol was made in phantoms as well as in volunteers. In our study, both methods showed sufficient robustness toward complex flow in a phantom model. In comparison with the ECG technique, the segmentation technique reduced vessel blurring and pulsatility artifacts caused by respiratory motion, and average flow values obtained in vivo in the left renal artery agreed between the two methods studied. Although presently hampered by a relatively low temporal resolution, velocity mapping with k‐space segmentation In combination with breath‐holding will benefit from future increased gradient quality, and we assume that in the future the method will become an attractive choice for noninvasive renal artery flow determination.
Influence of bolus volume and dose of gadolinium chelate for first‐pass myocardial perfusion MR imaging studies
Authors: Canet Emmanuelle , Douek Philippe , Bendid Karim , Revel Didier , Amaya Juventino , Millet Philippe , Janier Marc
Published: March 2007

First‐pass MR myocardial perfusion measurements require a well‐defined left ventricular (LV) blood pool input function. We used a peripheral intravenous (IV) injection of a gadolinium (Gd) chelate to obtain a well‐characterized LV time‐intensity curve. Using a strongly T1‐weighted subsecond MR sequence, we performed cardiac MR imaging after administering an IV bolus injection of one of three different doses of the Gd chelate: a standard dose (0.1 mmol/kg, group I, n = 8); a low dose with two bolus volumes (0.01 mmol/kg, l/10e bolus volume, group n, n = 7, and 0.01 mmol/kg diluted in saline, same bolus volume as group I, group III, n = 3); and an intermediate dose (0.05 mmol/kg, group IV, n = 5). Unlike in group I (high dose), in groups n and m (low dose), the LV curve had a well‐defined first peak, followed by a downslope and a recirculation peak. With the intermediate dose (group IV), a saturation effect still remained on the LV curve. The signal intensity (SI) enhancement of the myocardium was respectively 580 ± 77% at 0.1 mmol/kg, 362 ± 95% at 0.05 mmol/kg, and at 0.01 mmol/kg, it was 184 ± 33% in group II and 272 ± 8% in group m. In conclusion, with subsecond T1‐weighted MR imaging and a low dose of Gd chelate (i.e., 0.01 mmol/kg). the LV input function is a well‐defined first step for MR perfusion modeling.
Correlation between high‐field t2‐ weighted MR imaging and histology of ischemic lesions in gerbil brain
Authors: Hockings Paui D. , Rose Stephen E. , Crozier Stuart , Roffman Wolfgang , Doddrell David M. , Middleton David A. , Reid David G. , Patel Sara , Samson Nicole A. , Rothaul Alan L. , Hunter Jackie A.
Published: March 2007

Global forebrain ischemia in the Mongolian gerbil is a common animal model for use in stroke research. We produced lesions of graded severity in gerbil brains (after prescreening by MR imaging) by performing 6 minute bilateral carotid artery occlusions while monitoring pericranial temperature with a temporalis muscle thermocouple probe and maintaining the temperature at 32°C 36°C. or 40°C. Lesion severity was scored 4 days after occlusion from findings on spin‐echo images acquired at 7 T and from histologic scores. Statistically signiflcant correlation was observed between the MR imaging score and brain temperature and between the MR imaging score and the area of the CA region of the hippocampus measured by histology. In addition, because prescreening with MR imaging revealed abnormalities in the hippocampus of some of the animals, and these animals were rejected from the study. the statistical significance of the result could be strengthened.
Flow patterns in the dilated ischemic left ventricle studied by MR imaging with velocity vector mapping
Authors: Mohiaddin Raad H.
Published: March 2007

Magnetic reaonance velocity vector mapping was used to study flow patterns in dilated and healthy left ventricles. Eleven patients (age mean ± SD, 67 ± 12 yeare) with dilated left ventricle resulting from coronary artery diclease and 10 healthy volunteers (age 50 ± 9) were studied. Cine gradient echo images were acquired in the left ventricle vertical and horizontal long axes. Vertical and horizontal velocity components in the horizontal long axis plane of the left ventricle were encoded simultaneously. Maps of velocity components were then processed into multiple computer generated streaks whose orientation and length corresponded to velocity vectors. The following parameters (mean ± SD) differed significantly between the two groups: The heart rate (patients 70 211 beat/min. controls 57 ± 8, P <.001). end‐diastolic volume (patients 264 ± 83 ml. controls 143 ± 26 ml. P <.001). ejection fraction (patients 31% ± 7, controls 61% ± 6, P < .MI), diameter of the Mow stream (patients 1.7 ± 0.6 cm. controls 3.2 2 0.3 cm. P <.001). In normal subjects the predominant direction of diastouc now through the mitd valve was toward the apex with short‐lived vortices curling back behind each mitral ldet. The vortex beneath the anterior leaflet tended to be larger and more dominant. In patients with dilated left ventricle, the inflow was directed toward the free wall, giving rise to a well developed circular flow pattern turning back toward the septum and outflow tract and persisting through diastole. Magnetic resonance velocity vector mapping is an excellent method for studying left ventricular flow patterns. We have studied flow patterns in healthy volunteers and demonstrated abnormalities in patients with dilated left ventriclea resulting from coronary artery disease.
Gadolinium zeolite as an oral contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Young Stuart W. , Qing Fan , Rubin Daniel , Balkus Kenneth J. , Engel Julie S. , Lang Johanna , Dow William C. , Mutch James D. , Miller Richard A.
Published: March 2007

The purpose of thls study was to evaluate efficacy and safety of a gadolinium (Gd) zeolite suspension aa an oral MRI contrast agent. Serial dilution of GADO‐ LITE@ orpl Suspdon 1.2500 pg of GdO/mL) were prepared. MRI (T1 and T2 welghted) of standards and dogs (precontrast and postcontraat) were performed. Toxicity and Gd absorption were also asmaued. Subsequently, 30 nod male adult volunteers were divided into six group of five subjects each. Gd zeolite po suspension waa adminlstered before and after MRI in volumes and concentrations ranging from 250 to 1600 mL; 6 to 80 pg of Gd+3/mL. The images were rated (efficacy score) by a bllnded reader. Vital signs, blood chemistries and urlnalysia were recorded. Gadollte Oral Suspension produced excellent enhancement of the dog gastrointestinal (GI) tract. No todclty or absorption of Gd wan obsenred in dogs receiving doses up to 4 times the anticipated human dose My for 14 consecutive days. In clinical tri.lr. Gd zeollte slgnlficantly lmproved the efficacy scores for all groups and all pulrina sequences (all P values <.05). Efflcacy scores and slgnal intendtics generally increased with concentration and volume. No Gd waa detected in blood or urine specimens. No signiftcant adverse events were reported. Gd zeolite 1s a promlsing contrast medium for enhancement of the GI tract in MRI.
Temporal phase unwrapping for cine velocity imaging
Authors: Xiang Qing‐San
Published: March 2007

A simple algorithm named temporal phase unwrapping (TPU) is introduced to address the phase aliasing problem in time‐dependent pa contrast (CINE‐PC) velocity imaging. The method exploits the temporal continuity of velocity field and unwraps the phmc along time. TPU only involver a one‐dimensional (1D) temporal integration: therefore. many complications in 2D or 3D spatial phpee unwrapping are avoided. Differential velocity map (DVM) between adjacent movie framer arc first calculated from the complex MR imager. The DVM. have no phase aliasing no the differential velocities arc much smaller than the absolute velocities. ‐–free velocity maps are obtained by integrating the DVMs along the time direction provided M aliasing‐free reference velocity map (RVM) is found as a starting point of the integration. typically, much RVMs are always available within the cardiac cycle, especially in diastole where the blood flow is the lowest. In vivo rceults from fully automated processing and detailed discussion on noise behavior are presented.
A monoclonal antibody to α4‐integrin reverses the MR‐detectable signs of experimental allergic encephalomyelitis in the Guinea pig
Authors: Kent Sharon J. , Karlik Stephen J. , Rice George P. A. , Horner Heidi C.
Published: March 2007

Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a T cell‐mediated autoimmune disease of the CNS characterized by blood‐brain barrier breakdown. cerebral edema formation, lymphocyte infiltration, and demy‐elination, and is used as an animal model of multiple sclerosis (MS). MR imaging is important for the diagnosis of MS and for the evaluation of potential new therapier. In this study, T2‐weighted and T1‐weighted contrast‐enhanced MR imaging was used to evaluate the effectiveness of an antiadhesion therapy in EAE. Leukocyte‐endothelial adhesion at the blood‐brain barrier is considered an essential step in the mediation of CNS leukocyte infiltration in EAE.

AN100226m. a monoclonal antibody to α4 integrin has been previously shown to reverse the clinical and histologic signs of EAE by blocking this interaction. In the present study, AN100226m treatment in acute EAE significantly decreased contrast enhancement of the CNS parenchyma indicating closure of the blood‐brain barrier. The percentage of pixele due to leakage of contrast material in T1‐weighted images decreased to <4% in AN100226m‐treated animals whereas it was increased to 15% in control animal (P <.05. Mann‐Whitney rank sum test). A decrease in CNS abnormalities associated with cerebral edema and inflammation was also obsaved on T2‐weighted images (P < ‐05, Mann‐Whitney rank sum test). Thus, an antibody to α4 integrin reversed the blood‐brain barrier permeability changes characteristic of acute EAE. In addition, the further accumulation of innammatory edema was prevented and preexisting edema was resolved.
Appearance of the Normal Pericardium on Coronary MR Angiograms
Authors: Bogaert Jan , Duerinckx André J.
Published: March 2007

We evaluated the appearance of the normal pericardium on breath‐hold MR images used to visualize coronary arteries. A coronary MR angiogram was obtained in 23 subjects (17 healthy volunteers and six patients with no known pericardia! disease) using a breath‐hold K‐space segmented gradient‐recalled echo sequence with fat suppression. Each coronary MR angiographic study included imaging planes equivalent to the following echocardiographic planes: four‐chamber view, vertical two‐chamber view, and two short‐axis views (at base and mid ventricular level). The average pericardial thickness was 1.7 mm (range, 1.5–2.0 mm), and an average length of 60 mm (range, 20–110 mm) of pericardium was visualized. A significantly longer portion of the pericardium was seen in the vertical two‐chamber view and the basal short‐axis view than in the two other views (P <.001). Normal anatomic variations and overlapping structures and image artifacts can alter the appearance of the pericardium. Breath‐hold MR imaging techniques used for coronary MR angiography allow routine, time‐efficient evaluation of large portions of the pericardium.
Feasibility of MR Diffusion Studies in the Kidney
Authors: Siegel Cary Lynn , Aisen Alex M. , Ellis James H. , Londy Frank , Chenevert Thomas L.
Published: March 2007

Renal apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were anisotropic within and significantly different between cortex and medulla using a relatively motion‐insensitive one‐dimensional technique in 20 volunteers. ADC values ranged from 1.79 ±.39 to 2.95 ±.58(× 10‐3mm2/sec), relatively high but similar to other reports. Further investigation may help clarify this data, and determine whether the findings result from diffusion properties (and/or radially oriented parenchymal architecture), or artifacts due to factors such as bulk motion.
Determination of wall shear stress in the aorta with the use of MR phase velocity mapping
Authors: Osinnski John N. , Ku David N. , Mukundan Srinivasan , Loth Francis , Pettigrew Roderic I
Published: March 2007

MR phase velocity mapping was used to calculate wall shear stress (WSS) in the suprarenal and infrarenal abdominal aorta, two sites with very different proclivities for development of atherosclerosis. For the eight subjects studied, the average value of the mean (tune averaged over the cardiac cycle) WSS in the suprarenal aorta was 10.4 dynes/cm2 at the posterior wall and 8.6 at the anterior wall. In the infrarenal aorta, WSS values were 4.7 at the posterior wall and 6.1 at the anterior wall. Peak WSS over the cardiac cycle was 48 and 54 at the anterior and posterior walls of the suprarenal aorta, respectively, and 33 and 30 at the anterior and posterior walls of the infrarenal aorta, respectively. Wide variation was found in both mean and peak WSS values among subjects. However, for 28 of 32 locations examined, mean and peak WSS were ingher in the suprarenal aorta than in the infrarenal aorta. Because atherosclerosis is more likely to form in the infrarenal aorta than in the suprarenal aorta, tins study supports the hypothesis that low WSS is a localizing factor for atherosclerosis, and ingh WSS may act as a deterrent against formation of atherosclerosis.
Phase‐contrast echo‐planar MR imaging: Real‐time quantification of plow and velocity patterns in the thoracic vessels induced by valsalva's maneuver
Authors: Eichenberger A. C. , Schwitter J. , McKinnon G. C. , Debatin J. F. , Von Schulthess G. K.
Published: March 2007

Although the clinical manifestations of Valsalva's maneuver are well known, the associated hemodynamic changes in the great vessels have not been extensively studied and documented. In each of six healthy subjects, we evaluated three “quasi‐steady‐state” phases of Valsalva's maneuver: (1) during normal respiration, (2) during late strain, and (3) 4 seconds after strain release. Continuous flow, velocity, and cross‐sectional area measurements were obtained in the superior vena cava, pulmonary trunk, and thoracic aorta with single‐shot echo‐planar MR imaging (EPI) with velocity‐encoded gradients, which provided 256 Images in 5 seconds, yielding 26 velocity‐encoded images per second. In the superior vena cava, Valsalva's maneuver induced an 11% decrease in average flow volume, a 102% increase in peak flow velocity, a 156% increase in the time velocity integral, and a 37% decrease in cross‐sectional area. MR velocity measurements agreed with echo‐cardiographic data and supplied additional information on flow and morphology. EPI showed a reduction in venous return during Valsalva's maneuver by simultaneously assessing flow, velocity, and vessel morphology; this technique appears to be useful in the analysis of flow dynamics of the great vessels.
Changes in fibroglandular volume and water content of breast tissue during the menstrual cycle observed by MR imaging at 1.5 t
Authors: Graham S. J. , Stanchev P. L. , Lloyd‐Smith J. O. A. , Bronskill M. J. , Plewes D. B.
Published: March 2007

MR imaging at 1.5 T was used to investigate variations in breast parenchyma during the menstrual cycle. Seven subjects were examined twice weekly over at least one menstrual cycle. A three‐point Dixon technique (TE = 19 msec, TR = 2000 msec) provided images of fat, water, and static magnetic field (B0), from which two quantitative whole breast parameters were calculated: the mean relative volumetric water content, 〈WC〉, and the mean volumetric fibroglandular fraction, 〈FV〉. Four of seven subjects showed unequivocal cyclic variations in 〈WC〉 and 〈FV〉 consistent with expected histologic changes; 〈WC〉 and 〈FV〉 values were elevated during menses and reduced in mid‐cycle. The maximum deviation measured for each of the four subjects was ≦10% in 〈WC〉 and 〈FV〉 units. These variations probably do not influence significantly the clinical interpretation of unenhanced MR breast images. Quantitative measurements of breast parenchyma, however, should recognize these effects.
Radiofrequency shielding of surface coils at 4.0 t
Authors: Ong Kenneth C. , Wen Han , Chesnick A. Scott , Duewell Stefan , Jaffer Farouc A. , Balaban Robert S.
Published: March 2007

Because radiation loss associated with a radiofrequency (RF) coil increases as roughly the fourth power of the frequency, this loss mechanism may become important in high‐field studies above 2.0 T. In this study, the contribution of radiation losses at 4.0 T were determined in a rectangular surface coil using an RF shield to modify the radiation losses. The effect of this shield was determined on coil Q, B1 distribution, and signal to noise as a function of distance between the coil and the shield. Phantoms and human tissue were evaluated to characterize the loss mechanisms. The results demonstrate a large radiation loss in the unshielded surface coil. However, the radiation losses in vivo were not dominant owing to a large inductive loss occurring from dielectric currents in the body at 170 MHz.
MR demonstration of a cystic pheochromocytoma
Authors: Belden Clifford J. , Powers Cathryn , Ros Pablo R.
Published: March 2007

Cystic pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor of the adrenal gland that can pose a diagnostic challenge. We report a case of a 14 year‐old boy who had an adrenal lesion that appeared cystic by both sonography and CT, but that demonstrated hemorrhage into the lesion at MR Imaging, and proved to be a cystic pheochromocytoma. We emphasize the importance of considering the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma when faced with a cystic lesion of the adrenal gland.
Screening adolescents for metallic foreign bodies before MR procedures
Authors: Elmquist Carolin , Shellock Frank G. , Stoller David
Published: March 2007

The report describes a case in which routine prescreening procedures were found to be inadequate for an adolescent patient referred for MR imaging. Recommendations are provided to correct this potential problem.
Spinal cord dopamine receptor expression and function in mice with 6‐OHDA lesion of the A11 nucleus and dietary iron deprivation
Authors: Zhao Hongru , Zhu Wen , Pan Tianhong , Xie Wenjie , Zhang Aijun , Ondo William G. , Le Weidong
Published: March 2007

It is suggested that dysfunction of the diencephalospinal dopaminergic (DAergic) pathway may cause restless legs syndrome. We examined the mRNA and protein levels as well as DA receptor subtypes function within the lumbar spinal cord of an RLS animal model. C57BL/6 male mice with or without iron deprivation were lesioned with 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA) in the bilateral A11 nuclei. Locomotor behaviors were observed. DA concentration, mRNA, and protein levels of D1, D2, and D3 receptors in the lumbar spinal cords were analyzed, and the specific binding of D1, D2, and D3 receptors was determined using [3H]SCH23390, [3H]Spiperone, and [3H]PD128907 radioligands respectively. The behavioral tests showed that the locomotor activities were increased significantly in the mice treated with iron‐deficiency (ID) diet and 6‐OHDA lesions, which were reversed by the D2/D3 agonist ropinirole. DA in the spinal cord was decreased significantly by 6‐OHDA lesioning in A11. D2/D3 mRNA and protein levels as well as their binding capacity in the spinal cord were decreased significantly by 6‐OHDA lesions. ID with 6‐OHDA lesions produced a synergistic greater decrease of D2 binding. Although ID increased D1 mRNA and protein expression in the spinal cord, it did not significantly change D1 receptor binding. The present study suggests that ID and 6‐OHDA lesions in A11 nuclei differentially altered the D1, D2, and D3 receptors expression and binding capacity in the lumbar spinal cord of RLS animal model, which was accompanied by changes in locomotor activities. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of storage temperature and duration on glucosinolate, total vitamin C and nitrate contents in rocket salad (Eruca sativa Mill.)
Authors: Kim Sun‐Ju , Ishii Gensho
Published: March 2007

The effect of storage temperature and duration on nitrate, total vitamin C and glucosinolate (GSL) contents was investigated in rocket salad (Eruca sativa Mill.) grown in soilless culture. Harvested plants were either maintained intact as leaves with roots (RL) or separated as leaves only (LO) before being placed in oriented polypropylene packages and immediately stored at 4 °C (RL and LO) or 15 °C (LO only) in darkness. Packages were sampled after 1, 3, 6 and 10 days of storage (DOS) and, along with fresh samples (0 DOS), submitted to chemical analysis. For RL (4 °C), leaf moisture content decreased gradually with increasing storage duration, from 98.7% at 1 DOS to 93.8% at 10 DOS. For LO (15 °C), leaf colour at 10 DOS had shifted from an initial greenish hue to a yellowish one. Nitrate contents were highest at 10 DOS in all treatments but did not show any significant differences between LO (15 °C) and RL (4 °C). Total vitamin C content ranged from 0.87 to 1.81 mg g−1 fresh weight and was higher in both LO (4 °C) and RL (4 °C) leaves than in those of LO (15 °C) regardless of storage duration. Total GSL content in the leaves of both LO (4 °C) and LO (15 °C) increased up to 3 DOS and decreased thereafter. The correlation between total vitamin C and GSL contents only existed at 0 DOS before storage and at 3 DOS of LO (15 °C) during storage in all treatments. Storage temperature generally had a significant effect on GSLs individually or collectively, except for 4‐methoxyglucobrassicin. Copyright © 2007 Society of Chemical Industry
Dynamics of vitellogenin mRNA expression during vitellogenesis in the banana shrimp Penaeus (Fenneropenaeus) merguiensis using real‐time PCR
Authors: Phiriyangkul Pharima , Puengyam Peerapong , Jakobsen Ingrid B. , Utarabhand Prapaporn
Published: March 2007

An open reading frame (ORF) of vitellogenin (Vg) cDNA was amplified from the ovaries of the banana shrimp, Penaeus merguiensis. An examination of Vg‐deduced amino acid sequence revealed the presence of cleavage sites at a consensus motif for subtilisin‐like endoproteases prior to the N‐terminal sequences of purified vitellin (Vt) subunits. A comparison of the primary structures of Vg molecules in decapod crustacean species revealed the existence of a common characteristic structure, and phylogenetic analysis reflected the current taxonomic classifications of crustaceans. A PCR product of 1.1 kb encoding the 3′‐end of Vg cDNA was cloned from the hepatopancreas. Although its sequence was almost identical to that of the same region of the ovarian Vg, with only 18 nucleotide differences, analysis suggests that they have been subjected to natural selection, indicating that there may be two different, tissue‐specific Vg genes in P. merguiensis. This is consistent with the different expression patterns of Vg mRNA, as determined by real‐time PCR. Vg mRNA levels were maintained at low levels during the previtellogenic stage and they increased as vitellogenesis progressed to reach a peak at the early vitellogenic stage in the ovary or at the vitellogenic stage in the hepatopancreas, and thereafter, levels decreased. Expression of Vg mRNA was much higher in the ovary compared to the hepatopancreas at all stages of ovarian development, implying that the ovary is mainly responsible for Vt synthesis. These indicate that penaeids constitute a unique model for vitellogenesis, showing intraovarian gene expression and synthesis of yolk protein Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1198–1207, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of a novel T‐complex testis expressed 5 (Tctex5) in mouse testis, epididymis, and spermatozoa
Authors: Han Y.B. , Feng H.L. , Cheung C.K. , Lam P.M. , Wang C.C. , Haines C.J.
Published: March 2007

Expression of T‐complex testis expressed 5 (Tctex5), an orthologue of protein phosphatase‐1 inhibitor‐3 (PPP1R11), was enhanced in mouse testis and was also expressed in epididymis and spermatozoa. There were three transcripts of Tctex5 including one brain specific and two common transcripts dominant in mouse testis. Tctex5 protein isoforms (75, 52, 32, 25, and 14.3 kDa) were identified. Isoforms of 75 and 52 kDa were spermatogenic‐specific and were found in protein fraction containing nuclei, mitochondria, and flagellum accessory, and also in protein fraction containing mainly membranes. Tctex5 was localized in nuclei of pachytene spermatocytes, round spermatocytes, cytoplasm of Sertoli cells in testis; cilia, secretion bodies and nuclei of epithelial cells and interstitium smooth muscle cells in epididymis; and head and principal piece of tail in epididymal spermatozoa. The results suggested that Tctex5 might be a specific protein phosphatase‐1 inhibitor in sperm; various Tctex5 transcripts and isoforms and cellular locations imply its different roles in spermatogenesis. Nuclei‐type isoforms (75 and 52 kDa) might take part in nucleus remodeling during spermatogenesis whilst membrane‐type isoform (52 kDa) might be responsible for dephosphorylation of proteins during capacitation. The other isoforms might play general roles for all kinds of cell types. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1132–1140, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Homologous regulation of estrogen receptor subtypes in goldfish (Carassius auratus)
Authors: Nelson E.R. , Wiehler W.B. , Cole W.C. , Habibi H.R.
Published: March 2007

While considerable information is available on the physiological effects of estrogen, much less is known about the regulation of estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes, particularly in non‐mammalian vertebrates. Using goldfish as primary experimental model, we investigated sex‐ and tissue‐specific homologous regulation of ER subtypes (ERα, ERβI, and ERβII) by estradiol in vivo, in the liver and gonads. Treatment with estradiol, significantly upregulated transcript levels for all three types of ERs (ERα, ERβI, and ERβII) in the goldfish ovary and testis. In the goldfish liver, treatment with estradiol significantly increased ERα, ERβI transcript levels without affecting ERβII. In all cases increased ER transcript level was correlated with increased ER protein level determined by Western blot analysis, although we are not able to distinguish between ER subtypes. The results provide strong support for the hypothesis that homologous regulation of ERs is tissue‐ and gender‐specific, and may be a mechanism for estrogen‐mediated regulation of reproduction in goldfish. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1105–1112, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Concentration and composition of free amino acids and osmolalities of porcine oviductal and uterine fluid and their effects on development of porcine IVF embryos
Authors: Li Rongfeng , Whitworth Kristin , Lai Liangxue , Wax David , Spate Lee , Murphy Clifton N. , Rieke August , Isom Clay , Hao Yanhong , Zhong Zhisheng , Katayama Mika , Schatten Heide , Prather Randall S.
Published: March 2007

The concentration of free amino acids and the osmolalities in porcine oviductal (OF) and uterine fluids (UFs) on day 3 (D3) and day 5 (D5) were measured by HPLC and Vapor Pressure Osmometer, respectively. Based on these measurements we designed new media based on PZM3 by modifying the amino acid composition and osmolality. The effectiveness of the modified PZM3 on the development of porcine IVF embryos was then investigated. A total of 24 free amino acids were measured, including 20 protein and 4 nonprotein amino acids (β‐alanine, taurine, ornithine, and citrulline). There was no significant difference in the total concentration of amino acids among D3OF (13.06 ± 3.63 mmol/L), D3UF (10.54 ± 5.16 mmol/L), or D5UF (10.23 ± 6.69 mmol/L). But the total concentration of amino acids in D5OF (5.89 ± 1.47 mmol/L) was significantly lower than the three fluids above. Some individual amino acids varied significantly depending on where they were collected and from which day. The blastocyst rates of porcine IVF embryos were not improved when embryos were cultured in PZM3 with amino acids at D3OF (PZM3‐D3OF, 20.3 ± 7.9%) or D5UF (PZM3‐D5UF, 14.3 ± 10.7%) concentrations or in PZM3‐D3OF for the first 48 (20.5 ± 15.1), 72 (25.6 ± 10.4), and 96 (18.7 ± 10.0) hr and then transferred into PZM3‐D5UF compared with PZM3 with Sigma amino acid solution (PZM3‐SAA) (30.8 ± 9.1%). However, when IVF embryos were cultured in PZM3‐D5UF, the average nuclear number per blastocyst (57.6 ± 8.3) was increased compared to PZM3‐SAA (40.5 ± 3.5). The osmolalities in D3OF, D3UF, D5OF, and D5UF were 318 ± 8, 320 ± 32, 321, and 293 ± 8 mOsM, respectively. When the IVF embryos were cultured in PZM3‐SAA and PZM3‐D3OF at a variety of osmolalities (150–360 mOsM), higher blastocyst rates were obtained at 270–300 mOsM in the PZM3‐SAA group (24.6–33.9%) and 270–290 mOsM in PZM3‐D3OF group (22.4–24.2%). The blastocyst rate gradually decreased when the osmolality was increased or decreased in both groups. When the embryos were cultured in PZM3‐SAA at 330 mOsM for the first 72 hr and then transferred to 250 mOsM (33.3 ± 3.4%), the blastocyst rate was higher than original PZM3 (21.2 ± 2.2%) (288 mOsM). Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1228–1235, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of either glucose or fructose and metabolic regulators on bovine embryo development and lipid accumulation in vitro
Authors: Barceló‐Fimbres M. , Seidel G.E.
Published: March 2007

Our objective was to determine if replacing glucose with fructose would decrease cytoplasmic lipid accumulation during culture of embryos with or without regulators of metabolism. In vitro‐produced bovine zygotes were cultured 60 hr in chemically defined medium‐1 (CDM‐1) plus 0.5% BSA and 0.5 mM fructose or glucose in Experiment 1, and glucose in Experiment 2. In both experiments, 8‐cell embryos were next cultured 135 hr in CDM‐2 plus 2 mM fructose or glucose in factorial combination with five treatments: (Experiment 1: control, 10% fetal calf serum (FCS), 0.3 µM phenazine ethosulfate (PES), 30 µM dinitrophenol (DNP), and PES + DNP), and (Experiment 2: control, PES, PES + DNP, and 1 and 3 µg/ml cerulenin (C1 and C3)). Day 7.5 blastocysts were stained with Sudan Black B to quantify cytoplasmic lipid droplets as small (SD, <2 µm), medium (MD, 2–6 µm), or large (LD, >6 µm). Blastocyst rates per oocyte were 22% (Experiment 1) and 15% (Experiment 2) higher (P < 0.05) for fructose than glucose. For Experiment 1, numbers of MD were lower for PES, DNP, and PES + DNP than control and FCS (P < 0.05). LD were lower for PES and DNP than control, and higher for FCS than all other treatments (P < 0.05). For Experiment 2, MD were lower (P < 0.05) for PES, and PES + DNP than C1, C3, and control. For LD, PES was lower (P < 0.05) than control, C1, and C3, but not different from PES + DNP. The only effect of hexose on lipids was that fructose resulted in fewer MD (P < 0.01) in Experiment 2. In conclusion, fructose produced more blastocysts than glucose, and PES reduced lipid accumulation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1406–1418, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Developmental arrest induced in cleavage stage porcine embryos following microinjection of mRNA encoding Brahma (Smarca 2), a chromatin remodeling protein
Authors: Magnani Luca , Cabot Ryan A.
Published: March 2007

Smarca 2 (Brahma) and Smarca 4 (Brahma related gene 1, BRG1) alternatively occupy the catalytic site of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes. Mammalian embryos undergo a dramatic amount of epigenetic remodeling during cleavage development, which plays key roles in regulating both gene transcription and the developmental potential of the embryo. In order to understand how the epigenetic state of cleavage stage embryos is regulated, it is important to identify the factors that mediate epigenetic changes during cleavage development. In this study we hypothesized that altered expression of Smarca 2 would have profound effects on embryo development. The objectives of this study were to determine the expression pattern of Smarca 2 and determine the effects of Smarca 2 overexpression in cleavage stage parthenogenetic porcine embryos. Smarca 2 transcripts are most abundant in germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes and decline progressively during cleavage development. At the blastocyst stage, Smarca 2 transcripts are reduced by 18‐fold (GV stage oocyte vs. blastocyst stage embryo, P < 0.05). Parthenogenetic porcine embryos injected with mRNA encoding wild type human Smarca 2 exhibited a dramatic developmental arrest as compared to noninjected embryos, embryos injected with GFP mRNA, or mRNA encoding a dominant negative version of human Smarca 2 (P < 0.01). This work demonstrates the importance of Smarca 2 containing SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complexes in preimplantation porcine embryos and how perturbing the amount of Smarca 2 in porcine embryos disrupts cleavage development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1262–1267, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Proteomics for everyday use: Activities of the HUPO Brain Proteome Project during the 5th HUPO World Congress
Authors: Hamacher Michael , Stephan Christian , Eisenacher Martin , van Hall Andre , Marcus Katrin , Martens Lennart , Park Young Mok , Gutstein Howard B. , Herberg Friedrich , Meyer Helmut E.
Published: March 2007

Long Beach hosted this year's annual congress of the Human Proteome Organisation (HUPO). In addition to the numerous sessions, talks and poster presentations organized by HUPO itself, several events were arranged by the HUPO initiatives. The Brain Proteome Project (HUPO BPP) was very active, initiating three pre‐congress workshops: (i) the kick‐off meeting of the EU‐funded ProDaC consortium (Proteomics Data Collection) that is aiming at the bioinformatics Standardization in the proteomics field; (ii) the workshop “Standardization Issues in Proteomics: Perspectives from Vendors” giving an overview about the lessons learned by proteomics industrial partners; (iii) the 6th HUPO BPP Workshop “New Proteomics Approaches for further HUPO BPP Studies” offering new concepts for brain‐related proteomics studies.
Controlled synthesis of carboxylic acid end‐capped poly(heptadecafluorodecyl acrylate) and copolymers with 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate
Authors: Grignard Bruno , Jérôme Christine , Calberg Cédric , Detrembleur Christophe , Jérôme Robert
Published: March 2007

1H,1H,2H,2H‐Heptadecafluorodecyl acrylate (AC8) was polymerized by reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer and copolymerized with 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate with the formation of random and block copolymers, respectively. The kinetics of the (co)polymerization was monitored with 1H NMR spectroscopy and showed that the homopolymerization and random copolymerization of AC8 were under control. As a result of this control and the use of S‐1‐dodecyl‐S‐(α,α′‐dimethyl‐α″‐acetic acid)trithiocarbonate as a chain‐transfer agent, the copolymer chains were end‐capped by an α‐carboxylic acid group. Moreover, the controlled polymerization of AC8 was confirmed by the successful synthesis of poly(1H,1H,2H,2H‐heptadecafluorodecyl acrylate)‐b‐poly(2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate) diblock copolymers, which were typically amphiphilic compounds. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 45: 1499–1506, 2007
Post‐infarction peripheral cysts of the lung in pediatric patients: A possible cause of idiopathic spontaneous pneumothorax
Authors: Stocker J. Thomas , McGill Leigh C. , Orsini Edmund N.
Published: March 2007

Occlusion of the main pulmonary artery to the right lung in a newborn infant produced peripheral (subpleural) infarction of the lung and cyst formation. Two older infants were found at autopsy to have subpleural cysts of the upper lobes. One had had surgery for repair of an atrial septal defect and a patent ductus arteriosus eight months prior to death, while the second had died suddenly of carbon monoxide intoxication. The authors suggest that pulmonary arterial occlusion may have been responsible for cyst formation in all three cases and may produce cysts in other infants that lead to idiopathic spontaneous pneumothorax in older children and young adults. The presence of bronchopulmonary arteries in fetuses and newborn infants may provide the mechanism for the production of subpleural cysts following pulmonary arterial occlusion.
Flow‐pressure looping during plethysmography in wheezy infants
Authors: Beardsmore C. S. , Maayan Ch. , Bar‐Yishay E. , Godfrey S.
Published: March 2007

Marked looping of the expiratory portion of the flow‐pressure relationship was noted in some infants during measurements of airway resistance in a whole‐body plethysmograph while the respired air was maintained at body temperature and humidity. An investigation of 13 infants who had varying degrees of airway obstruction showed that there was a negative correlation (r = 0.72) between the severity of the looping and specific airway conductance (SGaw). An even stronger correlation (r = 0.85) was found between the tangent of the angle of phase lag between flow and pressure (θ) and the forced expiratory time constant (t) obtained from the partial forced expiratory flow‐volume curve. Such a relationship would be predicted from a model in which the lung behaved as a simple electrical resistance‐capacitance network during expiration. It is suggested that the looping is the result of small airway closure during expiration in wheezy infants, with a consequent rise in resistance and prolongation of the time constant of the lung.
Pressure‐flow curves in infancy
Authors: Stocks Janet , Thomson Anne , Wong Charles , Silverman Michael
Published: March 2007

Calibrated pressure‐flow (P‐V) curves were plotted by computer using data from both the plethysmographic method for measuring airway resistance and the esophageal balloon technique for measuring lung resistance. P‐V curves from 100 sick, healthy, and convalescent infants (age range 2 days to 19 months, weight range 0.9–10.4 kg) were classified into five distinctive types according to shape and direction of looping. Two of these patterns, one with a virtually closed, the other with a narrow figure‐of‐eight loop, reflected the normal physiologic changes in airway caliber that may occur during tidal breathing. The remaining three patterns, with far more marked changes in resistance, were associated with particular pathophysiologic mechanisms of airway obstruction. A wide figure‐of‐eight configuration, in which the expiratory loop rotated clockwise with marked flow limitation toward end expiration, was found for infants with chronic lung disease. By contrast, a rise in initial expiratory resistance due to dynamic glottic narrowing, with an anticlockwise rotated expiratory P‐V loop, occurred in infants with reduced or unstable lung volumes. A clockwise inspiratory loop was observed only for infants intubated during the neonatal period, many of whom had clinical evidence of extrathoracic airway obstruction. Inspection and analysis of P‐V curves provides more information about the state of the airways than does a single numerical expression of resistance. However, since normal patterns of P‐V curves are not restricted to infants with healthy airways, a combined qualitative and quantitative approach to these measurements is recommended.
Endogenous opiates and response to exercise in asthmatic children and adolescents
Authors: Tal Asher , Pasterkamp Hans , Chernick Victor
Published: March 2007

Whether endorphins secreted during stressful exercise may play a role in the physiologic response of asthmatics was investigated. Thirteen asthmatic subjects were studied: seven (mean age 16 years ± 2.8 SEM) had perennial asthma and exercise‐induced bronchospasm (EIB), and six (mean age 18 years ± 2) had mild seasonal asthma without EIB. Each subject performed two matched progressive exercise challenges on consecutive days. Baseline lung function was measured before each challenge and was measured again after exercise at regular intervals for 30 minutes. One minute before exercise each subject received intravenously either i.v. naloxone (0.04 mg/kg), an opiate receptor blocker, or saline, in a double‐blind crossover fashion. Heart rate, oxygen consumption, minute ventilation, tidal volume, and arterial oxygen saturation were recorded throughout the tests. During the two challenges these parameters were not significantly different for all 13 patients. The mean percentage reduction in FEV1 after exercise for the seven subjects with EIB was slightly but not significantly less with naloxone (25% ± 7 SEM) than with placebo (32% ± 7) during the first 10 minutes after exercise. Naloxone had no obvious effect on EIB or the other parameters measured in association with strenuous exercise in asthmatic patients.
Parental smoking and respiratory illness during early childhood: A six‐year longitudinal study
Authors: Fergusson D. M. , Hons Ba , Horwood L. J.
Published: March 2007

The relationship between parental smoking habits and lower respiratory illness and symptoms during the first 6 years of life was studied in a birth cohort of New Zealand children. This showed that maternal (but not paternal) smoking was associated with significant increase in rates of lower respiratory infection and lower respiratory symptoms during the child's first 2 years. This association persisted when a range of perinatal, social, and familial factors were taken into account statistically. After two years there was no detectable association between parental smoking habits and lower respiratory infection. Further, there was no evidence to suggest that children whose parents smoked had increased risks of asthma or rates of asthmatic attacks during early childhood.
Calculation of mean airway pressure during neonatal intermittent positive pressure ventilation and high frequency positive pressure ventilation
Authors: Field D. , Milner A. D. , Hopkin I. E.
Published: March 2007

Because mean airway pressure (MAP) is extensively used to quantify ventilation administered during the neonatal period, the accuracy and reproducibility of the techniques currently used to define MAP were assessed. All techniques were found to compare closely with MAP measured by integration of the pressure wave form even at ventilator rates in excess of 100 breaths per minute. It was therefore concluded that all methods currently used are satisfactory for clinical use.