bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Features and Outcome in HIV-Associated Multicentric Castleman's Disease
Authors: Bower Mark , Newsom-Davis Tom , Naresh Kikkeri , Merchant Shairoz , Lee Belinda , Gazzard Brian , Stebbing Justin , Nelson Mark
Published: May 2011

Purpose

To describe clinical features, treatment outcomes and relapse rates in HIV-associated multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) in a sizeable mature cohort.

Methods

From a prospective database, we identified 61 HIV-seropositive patients with histologically confirmed MCD (median follow-up, 4.2 years). Since 2003, 49 patients with newly diagnosed MCD have been treated with rituximab with (n = 14) or without (n = 35) etoposide.

Results

At MCD diagnosis, 55 (90%) of 61 patients met proposed clinical criteria defining an attack. Four patients (7%) had histologic evidence of coexisting lymphoma, and one developed lymphoma 2 years after treatment. The incidence of lymphoma is 28 per 1,000 patient years. With rituximab-based treatment, the overall survival was 94% (95% CI, 87% to 100%) at 2 years and was 90% (95% CI, 81% to 100%) at 5 years compared with 42% (95% CI, 14% to 70%) and 33% (95% CI, 6% to 60%) in 12 patients treated before introduction of rituximab (log-rank P < .001). Four of 49 rituximab-treated patients have died; three died as a result of MCD within 10 days of diagnosis, and one died as a result of lymphoma in remission of MCD. Eight of 46 patients who achieved clinical remission suffered symptomatic, histologically confirmed MCD relapse. The median time to relapse was 2 years, and all have been successfully re-treated and are alive in remission. The 2- and 5-year progression-free survival rates for all 49 patients treated with rituximab-based therapy were 85% (95% CI, 74% to 95%) and 61% (95% CI, 40% to 82%), respectively.

Conclusion

HIV-associated MCD is a remitting-relapsing disease. The outlook has improved dramatically in recent years with the introduction of rituximab-based therapy and yields high overall survival rates.
Persistence of Cytogenetic Abnormalities at Complete Remission After Induction in Patients With Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Prognostic Significance and the Potential Role of Allogeneic Stem-Cell Transplantation
Authors: Chen Yiming , Cortes Jorge , Estrov Zeev , Faderl Stefan , Qiao Wei , Abruzzo Lynne , Garcia-Manero Guillermo , Pierce Sherry , Huang Xuelin , Kebriaei Partow , Kadia Tapan , De Lima Marcos , Kantarjian Hagop , Ravandi Farhad
Published: May 2011

Purpose

To determine the prognostic impact of persistent cytogenetic abnormalities at complete remission (CR) on relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and to examine the potential role of allogeneic stem-cell transplantation (SCT) in this setting.

Patients and Methods

Data from 254 adult patients with AML (excluding acute promyelocytic leukemia) who achieved CR after induction chemotherapy on various first-line protocols were examined.

Results

Median follow-up for surviving patients was 43 months. Patients with cytogenetic abnormalities at CR (n = 71) had significantly shorter RFS (P = .001) and OS (P < .001) compared with patients with normal cytogenetics at CR (n = 183); 3-year RFS was 15% and 45%, and 3-year OS was 15% and 56%, respectively. Among the patients with persistent cytogenetic abnormalities at CR, those who underwent SCT in first CR (CR1; n = 15) had better RFS and OS compared to those without SCT (n = 56; P = .04 and .06, respectively). In multivariate analysis, persistent cytogenetic abnormalities at CR was an independent predictor for RFS (P < .001) and OS (P = .001), but among patients with persistent cytogenetic abnormalities at CR, no significant differences in OS (P = .25) was observed between those who did or did not receive SCT with a trend favoring SCT for RFS (P = .08).

Conclusion

Persistent cytogenetically abnormal cells at CR predict a significantly shorter RFS and OS. SCT in CR1 may improve the clinical outcome of patients lacking cytogenetic remission after induction although this depends on patient selection.
Long-Term Use of Acetaminophen, Aspirin, and Other Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Risk of Hematologic Malignancies: Results From the Prospective Vitamins and Lifestyle (VITAL) Study
Authors: Walter Roland B. , Milano Filippo , Brasky Theodore M. , White Emily
Published: May 2011

Purpose

Among previous studies examining the associations of over-the-counter analgesics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and incident hematologic malignancies, results were inconsistent for NSAIDs but suggested an increased risk with acetaminophen (paracetamol). Herein, we used a large prospective cohort study to examine these associations.

Patients and Methods

In total, 64,839 men and women age 50 to 76 years were recruited from 2000 to 2002 to the Vitamins and Lifestyle (VITAL) study. Incident hematologic malignancies (n = 577) were identified through December 2008 by linkage to the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results cancer registry. Hazard ratios (HRs) associated with use of analgesics for total incident hematologic malignancies and cancer subcategories were estimated by Cox proportional hazards models. Models were adjusted for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education, smoking, self-rated health, arthritis, chronic musculoskeletal pain, migraines, headaches, fatigue, and family history of leukemia/lymphoma.

Results

After adjustment, there was an increased risk of incident hematologic malignancies associated with high use (≥ 4 days/week for ≥ 4 years) of acetaminophen (HR, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.35 to 2.50 for high use; P trend = .004). This association was seen for myeloid neoplasms (HR, 2.26; 95% CI, 1.24 to 4.12), non-Hodgkin's lymphomas (HR, 1.81; 95% CI, 1.12 to 2.93), and plasma cell disorders (HR, 2.42; 95% CI, 1.08 to 5.41), but not chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL; HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.31 to 2.28). By comparison, there was no association with risk of incident hematologic malignancies for increasing use of aspirin, nonaspirin NSAIDs, or ibuprofen.

Conclusion

High use of acetaminophen was associated with an almost two-fold increased risk of incident hematologic malignancies other than CLL/SLL. Neither aspirin nor nonaspirin NSAIDs are likely useful for prevention of hematologic malignancies.
Monitoring of Minimal Residual Disease in NPM1-Mutated Acute Myeloid Leukemia: A Study From the German-Austrian Acute Myeloid Leukemia Study Group
Authors: Krönke Jan , Schlenk Richard F. , Jensen Kai-Ole , Tschürtz Florian , Corbacioglu Andrea , Gaidzik Verena I. , Paschka Peter , Onken Shiva , Eiwen Karina , Habdank Marianne , Späth Daniela , Lübbert Michael , Wattad Mohammed , Kindler Thomas , Salih Helmut R. , Held Gerhard , Nachbaur David , von Lilienfeld-Toal Marie , Germing Ulrich , Haase Detlef , Mergenthaler Hans-Günther , Krauter Jürgen , Ganser Arnold , Göhring Gudrun , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Döhner Hartmut , Döhner Konstanze
Published: May 2011

Purpose

To evaluate the prognostic value of minimal residual disease (MRD) in patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) with NPM1 mutation (NPM1mut).

Patients and Method

RNA-based real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RQ-PCR) specific for the detection of six different NPM1mut types was applied to 1,682 samples (bone marrow, n = 1,272; blood, n = 410) serially obtained from 245 intensively treated younger adult patients who were 16 to 60 years old.

Results

NPM1mut transcript levels as a continuous variable were significantly associated with prognosis after each treatment cycle. Achievement of RQ-PCR negativity after double induction therapy identified patients with a low cumulative incidence of relapse (CIR; 6.5% after 4 years) compared with RQ-PCR–positive patients (53.0%; P < .001); this translated into significant differences in overall survival (90% v 51%, respectively; P = .001). After completion of therapy, CIR was 15.7% in RQ-PCR–negative patients compared with 66.5% in RQ-PCR–positive patients (P < .001). Multivariable analyses after double induction and after completion of consolidation therapy revealed higher NPM1mut transcript levels as a significant factor for a higher risk of relapse and death. Serial post-treatment assessment of MRD allowed early detection of relapse in patients exceeding more than 200 NPM1mut/104 ABL copies.

Conclusion

We defined clinically relevant time points for NPM1mut MRD assessment that allow for the identification of patients with AML who are at high risk of relapse. Monitoring of NPM1mut transcript levels should be incorporated in future clinical trials to guide therapeutic decisions.
Evolutionary crossroads in developmental biology: the tunicates
Authors: Lemaire Patrick
Published: May 2011

The tunicates, or urochordates, constitute a large group of marine animals whose recent common ancestry with vertebrates is reflected in the tadpole-like larvae of most tunicates. Their diversity and key phylogenetic position are enhanced, from a research viewpoint, by anatomically simple and transparent embryos, compact rapidly evolving genomes, and the availability of powerful experimental and computational tools with which to study these organisms. Tunicates are thus a powerful system for exploring chordate evolution and how extreme variation in genome sequence and gene regulatory network architecture is compatible with the preservation of an ancestral chordate body plan.
Dual role for Drosophila lethal of scute in CNS midline precursor formation and dopaminergic neuron and motoneuron cell fate
Authors: Stagg Stephanie B. , Guardiola Amaris R. , Crews Stephen T.
Published: May 2011

Dopaminergic neurons play important behavioral roles in locomotion, reward and aggression. The Drosophila H-cell is a dopaminergic neuron that resides at the midline of the ventral nerve cord. Both the H-cell and the glutamatergic H-cell sib are the asymmetric progeny of the MP3 midline precursor cell. H-cell sib cell fate is dependent on Notch signaling, whereas H-cell fate is Notch independent. Genetic analysis of genes that could potentially regulate H-cell fate revealed that the lethal of scute [l(1)sc], tailup and SoxNeuro transcription factor genes act together to control H-cell gene expression. The l(1)sc bHLH gene is required for all H-cell-specific gene transcription, whereas tailup acts in parallel to l(1)sc and controls genes involved in dopamine metabolism. SoxNeuro functions downstream of l(1)sc and controls expression of a peptide neurotransmitter receptor gene. The role of l(1)sc may be more widespread, as a l(1)sc mutant shows reductions in gene expression in non-midline dopaminergic neurons. In addition, l(1)sc mutant embryos possess defects in the formation of MP4-6 midline precursor and the median neuroblast stem cell, revealing a proneural role for l(1)sc in midline cells. The Notch-dependent progeny of MP4-6 are the mVUM motoneurons, and these cells also require l(1)sc for mVUM-specific gene expression. Thus, l(1)sc plays an important regulatory role in both neurogenesis and specifying dopaminergic neuron and motoneuron identities.
BRANCHLESS TRICHOMESlinks cell shape and cell cycle control inArabidopsistrichomes
Authors: Kasili Remmy , Huang Cho-Chun , Walker Jason D. , Simmons L. Alice , Zhou Jing , Faulk Chris , Hülskamp Martin , Larkin John C.
Published: May 2011

Endoreplication, also called endoreduplication, is a modified cell cycle in which DNA is repeatedly replicated without subsequent cell division. Endoreplication is often associated with increased cell size and specialized cell shapes, but the mechanism coordinating DNA content with shape and size remains obscure. Here we identify the product of the BRANCHLESS TRICHOMES (BLT) gene, a protein of hitherto unknown function that has been conserved throughout angiosperm evolution, as a link in coordinating cell shape and nuclear DNA content in endoreplicated Arabidopsis trichomes. Loss-of-function mutations in BLT were found to enhance the multicellular trichome phenotype of mutants in the SIAMESE (SIM) gene, which encodes a repressor of endoreplication. Epistasis and overexpression experiments revealed that BLT encodes a key regulator of trichome branching. Additional experiments showed that BLT interacts both genetically and physically with STICHEL, another key regulator of trichome branching. Although blt mutants have normal trichome DNA content, overexpression of BLT results in an additional round of endoreplication, and blt mutants uncouple DNA content from morphogenesis in mutants with increased trichome branching, further emphasizing its role in linking cell shape and endoreplication.
Cyclin E and CDK-2 regulate proliferative cell fate and cell cycle progression in the C. elegans germline
Authors: Fox Paul M. , Vought Valarie E. , Hanazawa Momoyo , Lee Min-Ho , Maine Eleanor M. , Schedl Tim
Published: May 2011

The C. elegans germline provides an excellent model for analyzing the regulation of stem cell activity and the decision to differentiate and undergo meiotic development. The distal end of the adult hermaphrodite germline contains the proliferative zone, which includes a population of mitotically cycling cells and cells in meiotic S phase, followed by entry into meiotic prophase. The proliferative fate is specified by somatic distal tip cell (DTC) niche-germline GLP-1 Notch signaling through repression of the redundant GLD-1 and GLD-2 pathways that promote entry into meiosis. Here, we describe characteristics of the proliferative zone, including cell cycle kinetics and population dynamics, as well as the role of specific cell cycle factors in both cell cycle progression and the decision between the proliferative and meiotic cell fate. Mitotic cell cycle progression occurs rapidly, continuously, with little or no time spent in G1, and with cyclin E (CYE-1) levels and activity high throughout the cell cycle. In addition to driving mitotic cell cycle progression, CYE-1 and CDK-2 also play an important role in proliferative fate specification. Genetic analysis indicates that CYE-1/CDK-2 promotes the proliferative fate downstream or in parallel to the GLD-1 and GLD-2 pathways, and is important under conditions of reduced GLP-1 signaling, possibly corresponding to mitotically cycling proliferative zone cells that are displaced from the DTC niche. Furthermore, we find that GLP-1 signaling regulates a third pathway, in addition to the GLD-1 and GLD-2 pathways and also independent of CYE-1/CDK-2, to promote the proliferative fate/inhibit meiotic entry.
BMP signaling orchestrates photoreceptor specification in the zebrafish pineal gland in collaboration with Notch
Authors: Quillien Aurélie , Blanco-Sanchez Bernardo , Halluin Caroline , Moore John C. , Lawson Nathan D. , Blader Patrick , Cau Elise
Published: May 2011

A variety of signaling pathways have been shown to regulate specification of neuronal subtype identity. However, the mechanisms by which future neurons simultaneously process information from multiple pathways to establish their identity remain poorly understood. The zebrafish pineal gland offers a simple system with which to address questions concerning the integration of signaling pathways during neural specification as it contains only two types of neurons – photoreceptors and projection neurons. We have previously shown that Notch signaling inhibits the projection neuron fate. Here, we show that BMP signaling is both necessary and sufficient to promote the photoreceptor fate. We also demonstrate that crosstalk between BMP and Notch signaling is required for the inhibition of a projection neuron fate in future photoreceptors. In this case, BMP signaling is required as a competence factor for the efficient activation of Notch targets. Our results indicate that both the induction of a photoreceptor fate and the interaction with Notch relies on a canonical BMP/ Smad5 pathway. However, the activation of Notch-dependent transcription does not require a canonical Smad5-DNA interaction. Our results provide new insights into how multiple signaling influences are integrated during cell fate specification in the vertebrate CNS.
Classification of pituitary growth hormone producing adenomas according to SIPAP: application in clinical practice
Authors: Meyer Sofie , Valdemarsson Stig , Larsson Elna-Marie
Published: May 2011

Background

In 1997, the SIPAP classification was introduced, a guide designed for MRI, to characterize pituitary adenomas with emphasis on extrasellar extensions and impact on adjacent structures. To our knowledge no previous evaluation of the inter-observer agreement of the SIPAP classification has been performed.

Purpose

To evaluate the inter-observer agreement of the SIPAP classification.

Material and Methods

Sixty patients operated on for growth hormone producing pituitary adenomas at Lund University Hospital 1991–2007 had an assessable preoperative MRI scan. Forty-five of them also had an assessable postoperative MRI scan. The mean time between surgery and postoperative MRI scans was 11 months. Two observers evaluated all the MRI scans independently. The outcome of the evaluation is presented as the percentage of concordance in each of the evaluated directions and the degree of discrepancy for each of the directions evaluated.

Results

In 284 (79%) of 360 preoperative gradings both observers agreed completely. In 17 of the 60 preoperative MRI scans, both observers made identical assessments according to the SIPAP classification in all the six different directions of tumor extension. In 76 gradings the results differed between the observers. The difference was 1 grade (or less) in 69 cases. In 230 (85%) of 270 postoperative gradings the results were identical for both observers. In 18 of the 45 postoperative MRI scans, both observers made the same assessments according to the SIPAP classification in all the six different directions of tumor extension. In 40 gradings the results differed between the observers. The difference was 1 grade (or less) in all 40 cases.

Conclusion

We found a relatively high inter-observer agreement both pre- and postoperatively, supporting the usefulness and easy applicability of the SIPAP system for grading of pituitary adenomas pre- as well as postoperatively.
Telomerase-based immortalization modifies the angiogenic/inflammatory responses of human coronary artery endothelial cells
Authors: Baumer Yvonne , Scholz Beate , Ivanov Svetlana , Schlosshauer Burkhard
Published: May 2011

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is fundamental in determining the life span by regulating telomere length of chromosomes. To address the question whether the enhancement of the proliferative potential hampers cell differentiation, we generated TERT-over-expressing endothelial cells (ECs) and analyzed in vitro their (1) barrier function; (2) low-density lipoprotein uptake; (3) expression pattern of six selected marker proteins; (4) angiogenic potential in four assays; and (5) inflammatory responses. In contrast to investigations with focus on other cell parameters, we demonstrate that immortalization of ECs by over-expression of TERT resulted in different angiogenic and inflammatory behavior in comparison to cells with low native telomerase levels.
Polo-like kinases and DNA damage checkpoint: beyond the traditional mitotic functions
Authors: Bahassi El Mustapha
Published: May 2011

Polo-like kinases (Plks) are a family of serine–threonine kinases that play a pivotal role in cell cycle progression and in cellular response to DNA damage. The Plks are highly conserved from yeast to mammals. There are five Plk family members (Plk1–5) in humans, of which Plk1, is the best characterized. The Plk1 isoform is being aggressively pursued as a target for cancer therapy, following observations that this protein is overexpressed in human tumors and is actively involved in malignant transformation. The roles of Plks in mitotic entry, spindle pole functions and cytokinesis are well established and have been the subject of several recent reviews. In this review, we discuss functions of Plks other than their classical roles in mitotic progression. When cells incur DNA damage, they activate checkpoint mechanisms that result in cell cycle arrest and allow time for repair. If the damage is extensive and cannot be repaired, cells will undergo cell death by apoptosis. If the damage is repaired, cells can resume cycling, as part of the process known as checkpoint recovery. If the damage is not repaired or incompletely repaired, cells can override the checkpoint and resume cycling with damaged DNA, a process called checkpoint adaptation. The Plks play a role in all three outcomes and their involvement in these processes will be the subject of this review.
George Cheyne (1671 or 73–1743): 18th-century physician
Authors: Charlton Anne
Published: May 2011

George Cheyne was a well-known physician with a practice in Bath and London. He was a fat, jovial Scotsman weighing 32 stone at one time and with a great sense of humour who could be classed as one of the characters of the period. His health suffered seriously from eating and drinking too much in taverns with his ‘bottle companions’ when young, and he spent the rest of his life writing books for the public to help them avoid the problems he had experienced, with a particular emphasis on diet and nervous disorders. His book entitled An Essay on Health and Long Life had particular success. Although often lampooned, he had many famous patients including Beau Nash, Samuel Richardson, The Countess of Huntingdon and Catherine Walpole, the eldest daughter of the Prime Minister Robert Walpole. He was a skilled and caring doctor and health educator, and has been said to have established the agenda for psychiatric epidemiology.
Ali ibn Hosein Ansari (1330–1404): a Persian pharmacist and his pharmacopoeia, Ekhtiyarat i Badi i
Authors: Ramezany Farid , Ardakani Mohammad Reza Shams
Published: May 2011

Ekhtiyarat i Badi i ( Badi i Selections) is a drug manual of traditional Persian medicine, well known in Farsi-speaking countries, the Middle East and India. The author was the greatest pharmacist-physician of the 13th-century Mongolian period in Persia. The unique style of writing, with authoritative and critical drug overviews, made his book an invaluable Farsi reference of traditional pharmacy for four centuries. In spite of adverse social and political circumstances in the Mongolian era, the book contributed to the reconstitution of Persian pharmacy and medicine, serving as a basic reference for the compilation of other drug manuals and scientific works for centuries after its introduction.
Stonewall Jackson (1824–63) and ‘The Old Man's Friend’
Authors: Lively Mathew W
Published: May 2011

In May 1863 at the Battle of Chancellorsville in the American Civil War, Lieutenant General Thomas J ‘Stonewall’ Jackson received three gunshot wounds and subsequently underwent amputation of his left arm. Four days after his operation Jackson developed pneumonia and died three days later. Some modern physicians have challenged the diagnosis of pneumonia and have suggested other diseases as the being the likely cause of his death. Reviewing the accounts of Jackson's course of illness in the context of 19th-century medical knowledge supports the original diagnosis of pneumonia as the cause of his death.
Medical missionaries to China: the Jesuits
Authors: Fu Louis
Published: May 2011

The 15th and 16th centuries saw a religious revival in Europe and an increased interest in church missions. With geographical discoveries supported by strong monarchies in Spain, Portugal and later France, Catholic missions and in particular the Society of Jesus resumed the spread of Christianity to China. Convinced that it was wise policy to address themselves to the most influential upper classes, the Jesuits under the leadership of Father Matteo Ricci became friendly with the aristocrats and the intelligentsia. The Jesuits introduced Western scientific ideas into China and even practised medicine. Between periods of adversity and persecutions, Chinese emperors who valued them for their scientific expertise generally tolerated their missionary activities. Any lasting influence on Chinese culture was limited.
Transferring community music into the classroom: Some issues concerning the pedagogy of Japanese traditional music
Authors: Shiobara Mari
Published: May 2011

Based on my personal experiences of learning nagauta as a case study, this article examines the process of learning traditional Japanese music. It raises attention to potential pedagogical issues when traditional music is introduced into school music classrooms, as was suggested in
the 2008 Japanese Course of Study for Music. From my observation four points became clear: (1) traditional one-to-one and face-to-face teaching and learning situations are unfamiliar to school music teaching; (2) the historical and cultural background of this particular music may cause some
obstacles to the students' learning; (3) music teachers are not familiar with this genre and it is difficult to learn it in a short time because there are no written scores to rely on but for using them to remember what has been learned; and (4) its performance is based on individual presentation
supported by a community of musicians of the same school joining in. With these issues in mind, the article concludes by presenting possible strategies on how and in what ways can the traditional Japanese music of nagauta be taught in the music classroom, by calling upon professional musicians
from within the community.
Human chorionic gonadotropin and a 15 amino acid hCG fragment of the hormone induce downregulation of the cytokine IL-8 receptor in normal breast epithelial cells
Authors: Noronha Samuel M.R. , Correa-Noronha Silvana A.A. , Russo Irma H. , de Cicco Ricardo López , Santucci-Pereira Julia , Russo José
Published: May 2011

Cytokine receptors are associated with tumor cell growth by increasing proliferation, metastasis and regulating self-renewal of cancer stem cells (SCs). There is a strong association between cytokine IL-8 receptor (CXCR1) over-expression and cells displaying SC characteristics. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) causes differentiation, inhibition of cell proliferation and increased apoptosis of the breast epithelium. hCG receptor (LHCGR) expression in breast tumors and in breast cancer cell lines is undetectable or low. In this study, our objective was to assess and compare the effects of hCG and a 15 amino acid hCG fragment of the hormone on mRNA expression of CXCR1 and LHCGR on normal breast epithelial cells (MCF-10F) by real time RT-PCR after treatment with hCG or a hCG fragment for 15 days. Cell proliferation was also measured. hCG and the hCG fragment decreased cell proliferation in both groups. The compounds upregulated LHCGR expression and downregulated CXCR1 expression. It is possible to postulate that an increase of LHCGR mRNA seems to respond to the decrease of CXCR1 expression. These genes probably act synergistically to reduce the amount of cancer SCs in the mammary gland. Thereby, the use of hCG or the hCG fragment as a therapeutic or preventive tool should be considered.
Amtshaftung der Bundeswehr für Rechtsverletzungen im Rahmen von UN-Friedensmissionen
Authors: Meinert Philipp , Strauß Franziska
Published: May 2011

Aufgrund der in den letzten Jahren zunehmenden Zahl der Auslandseinsätze unter dem Dach der UN kann man die Bundeswehr ohne weiteres mit dem Prädikat »Armee im Einsatz« versehen. Im Rahmen dieser Einsätze kann es zu Individualrechtsgutsverletzungen kommen, die haftungsrechtliche Ausgleichsbegehren der Opfer entstehen lassen. Das zeigt aktuell die von Bremer Anwälten im Namen von 78 afghanischen Familien angeregte außergerichtliche Einigung – als Folge der Luftangriffe auf die Tanklastzüge in Afghanistan – mit dem Bundesverteidigungsministerium. Zwar wurde dieser Einsatz nicht von der Bundeswehr selbst geflogen, jedoch geht er auf eine deutsche Anforderung zurück. Es stellt sich die Frage, ob die Bundesrepublik Deutschland im Rahmen von UN-Friedenseinsätzen für Handlungen ihrer Soldaten rechtlich verantwortlich ist und als Folge daraus gemäß Art. 34 GG i.V. m. § 839 BGB für entstandene Schäden haften muss. Dem widmet sich der vorliegende Beitrag.
Von Meteoriten, Skeletten und anderen Kostbarkeiten
Authors: Süß Thorsten
Published: May 2011

Der Sachverhalt, den das LG Augsburg zu beurteilen hatte, dürfte bisher einmalig gewesen sein und so schnell auch nicht wieder zur Entscheidung anstehen: Ein Hobbyastronom aus Deutschland hatte die Flugbahn eines Meteoritensplitters berechnet, der von einem Meteoriten abgeplatzt war und irgendwo in Südbayern niedergegangen sein musste. Nach langer Suche fand er den Splitter auf dem frei zugänglichen, aber abgelegenen Geröllhang-Grundstück einer österreichischen Gemeinde im deutsch-österreichischen Grenzgebiet und nahm ihn an sich. Fachleute schätzten den Wert auf über 100.000 EUR. Geld, das anscheinend auch die Gemeinde gebrauchen konnte, denn sie klagte – und verlor. Durch Anwendung von Art. 43 I, II EGBGB gelangte das LG zur Anwendung österreichischen Rechts, das hier nicht weiter interessieren soll. Wie aber wäre der Fall nach deutschem Recht zu lösen gewesen? Wem gehörte nun der Meteoritensplitter? Der Fall gibt Anlass, über einige Formen originären Eigentumserwerbs im BGB nachzudenken und Unstimmigkeiten aufzuzeigen.
Unternehmens- und Wirtschaftsrecht, Handels- und Gesellschaftsrecht Praxisfragen aus dem Gesellschaftsrecht zu § 181 BGB
Authors: Blasche Sebastian
Published: May 2011

§ 181 BGB ist sicherlich eine der kompliziertesten Normen des Allgemeinen Teils des BGB, auf die man außerdem in der gesellschaftsrechtlichen Praxis besonders häufig trifft. Es stellen sich dort viele verschiedene Fragen, die sich bestens für die Prüfung im Wahlfach Gesellschaftsrecht eignen, weil so das allgemeine Grundlagenwissen mit den Besonderheiten des Gesellschaftsrechts verknüpft werden kann. Der vorliegende Beitrag geht einigen der wichtigsten gesellschaftsrechtlichen Praxisfragen zu § 181 BGB nach und zeigt ihre dogmatischen Hintergründe auf.
Increasing bat abundance in a major winter roost in central Poland over 30 years
Authors: Lesiński Grzegorz , Ignaczak Maurycy , Kowalski Marek
Published: May 2011

A bat census in the years 1981–2010 (repeated twice during each hibernation period in January and March) showed upward trends in many populations of bats hibernating in the Szachownica Cave (central Poland). Total numbers of the bat assemblage, which consisted of 11 species, increased within the study period from 178 to 1477 individuals in the first decade to 835–2902 in the past decade of the study, with the highest rates of increase noted in Barbastella barbastellus, Plecotus auritus and Myotis nattereri. Myotis myotis and Myotis daubentonii showed only slight upward trends. In the years 2009–2010, Myotis bechsteinii occurred in markedly higher numbers (up to 24 individuals) as compared to previous years.
Inter-individual variations in male and female mating bonds within a population of Eld’s deer in Hainan Island, China
Authors: Zeng Zhi-Gao , Song Yan-Ling , Zhang Qiong
Published: May 2011

The mating system of a semi-captive population of Hainan Eld’s deer Cervus eldi hainanus was investigated in the Datian National Nature Reserve, China. In total, 18 females and 11 males out of 61 semi-captive deer were involved in mating, and 43 copulations were observed. The mating system of this population was polygynous, with an inter-individual variation in the type of mating bonds among males (i.e., polygyny, promiscuity) and among females (i.e., serial monogamy, polyandry, promiscuity). During the rut, 13 out of these 18 females (72.2%) copulated with only one male, four of the 11 males (36.4%) mated with more than one female but obtained 81.4% mating opportunities (35 of 43 copulations). Dominant males served significantly more females in estrus than subordinate males. Dominant males can monopolize copulations despite the long duration (over 3 months) of the breeding season, and asynchronous estrus of females makes this possible without increasing energetic costs for dominant males. Mating dominance of a dominant male continued for at least 87 days during the rut, thus the male copulated with a total of 11 females. Our results suggest that the inter-individual variations in male and female mating bonds largely depends on mating strategies of dominant males, operational sex ratio as well as multiple estrous periods in females.
Density of ghrelin-producing cells is higher in the gastric mucosa of morbidly obese patients
Authors: Maksud Fabiana A N , Alves Jairo S , Diniz Marco T C , Barbosa Alfredo J A
Published: May 2011

Background

Ghrelin is a peptide mainly secreted by gastric mucosa and has been implicated in the regulation of eating behavior and weight balance. Obesity and Helicobacter pylori infection are associated with changes in plasma ghrelin levels.

Objective

This study was designed to evaluate the density of ghrelin-producing cells in the gastric mucosa of morbidly obese and dyspeptic non-obese patients, with and without H. pylori infection.

Methods

Gastric biopsies of the antral and oxyntic mucosa were obtained from 50 morbidly obese patients (BMI >40, 21 with metabolic syndrome (MS)), 17 dyspeptic overweight subjects (25<BMI<30), and 33 lean individuals (BMI<25) and processed for histology and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Ghrelin-immunoreactive cell densities in the oxyntic mucosa were similar in morbidly obese patients with MS and in overweight and lean patients, whereas morbidly obese patients without MS presented higher ghrelin-immunoreactive cell density. The number of ghrelin cells in the oxyntic mucosa was significantly lower in obese and non-obese H. pylori-infected subjects. Ghrelin-immunoreactive cells, although sparse in the antral mucosa, were found more frequently in obese patients and their numbers did not seem to be affected by H. pylori infection.

Conclusions

The higher expression of ghrelin-immunoreactive cells in the oxyntic mucosa of morbidly obese patients compared with non-obese subjects or with morbidly obese subjects with MS and the finding of a higher number of small foci of ghrelin cells in the antral mucosa of obese patients may indicate an adaptive mechanism or an individual factor to be considered in the pathogenesis of obesity.
A Left/Right Asymmetric Neuronal Differentiation Program Is Controlled by the Caenorhabditis elegans LSY-27 Zinc-Finger Transcription Factor
Authors: Zhang Feifan , O'Meara M Maggie , Hobert Oliver
Published: May 2011

Functional diversification across the left/right axis is a common feature of many nervous systems. The genetic programs that control left/right asymmetric neuron function and gene expression in the nervous system are, however, poorly understood. We describe here the molecular characterization of two phenotypically similar mutant Caenorhabditis elegans strains in which left/right asymmetric gene expression programs of two gustatory neurons, called ASEL and ASER, are disrupted such that the differentiation program of the ASER neuron is derepressed in the ASEL neuron. We show that in one mutant strain the LIM homeobox gene lim-6 is defective whereas in another strain a novel member of a nematode-specific, fast-evolving family of C2H2 zinc-finger transcription factors, lsy-27, is mutated, as revealed by whole-genome sequencing. lsy-27 is broadly and exclusively expressed in the embryo and acts during the initiation, but not during the maintenance phase of ASE asymmetry control to assist in the initiation of lim-6 expression.
Abnormal High-Density Lipoproteins in Overweight Adolescents With Atherogenic Dyslipidemia
Authors: Medina-Urrutia Aida , Juarez-Rojas Juan G. , Cardoso-Saldaña Guillermo , Jorge-Galarza Esteban , Posadas-Sánchez Rosalinda , Martínez-Alvarado Rocio , Caracas-Portilla Nacú , Mendoza Pérez Enrique , Posadas-Romero Carlos
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to evaluate high-density lipoprotein functionality and the cardiovascular risk factor profile in the overweight pediatric population. We hypothesized that overweight adolescents with low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and elevated triglyceride plasma levels have metabolic abnormalities and dysfunctional high-density lipoprotein particles, similar to those reported in adults.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Overweight adolescents with (group 1 [n = 21]) and without (group 2 [n = 36]) atherogenic dyslipidemia (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol: ≤40 mg/dL and triglycerides: ≥150 mg/dL) and normal-weight normolipidemic subjects, as a reference (group 3 [n = 36]), were included. The cardiovascular risk factor profile (lipids, lipoproteins, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, and insulin), high-density lipoprotein subclass distribution, composition, and cholesterol efflux capacity were studied.

RESULTS:

Group 1 adolescents showed abnormalities in high-density lipoprotein subclass distribution and high-density lipoprotein chemical composition, as well as a significantly lower capacity to promote cholesterol efflux (14.8 ± 2.8, 16.5 ± 3.8, 20.4 ± 3.5, for groups 1, 2 and 3, respectively). High-density lipoprotein2a (R2 = 0.212, β = 0.472, P < .0001) and the Tanner score (R2 = 0.054, β = −0.253, P = .02) were the independent predictors of cholesterol efflux. Group 1 also showed a higher degree of cardiovascular abnormalities (an adverse lipoprotein profile, greater insulin resistance and systemic inflammation; and lower low-density lipoprotein size) than group 2, even after BMI and Tanner score adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study suggests that atherogenic dyslipidemia identifies overweight adolescents with quantitative, qualitative, and functional high-density lipoprotein abnormalities. Atherogenic dyslipidemia seems to be a marker of an increased risk for developing cardiovascular disease and indicates that those adolescents should be a target of aggressive prevention programs and lipid management guidelines.
Epidemiology of 15-Day Readmissions to a Children's Hospital
Authors: Gay James C. , Hain Paul D. , Grantham John A. , Saville Benjamin R.
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To describe the population of pediatric patients readmitted to a children's hospital within 15 days of discharge.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Medical records were reviewed to identify characteristics of patients and their hospitalizations for all children hospitalized during calendar years 2007–2008 who were readmitted up to and including 15 days after a previous discharge.

RESULTS:

Of 30 188 total hospital admissions during the study period, 2546 (8.4%) were followed by a readmission within 15 days of discharge. The age groups with the greatest number of readmissions were infants (aged 31–364 days, 20.8% of readmissions) and patients aged >10 years (31.3% of readmissions). Most readmitted patients (78.0%) had an underlying chronic illness, and patients with malignancies were most likely to be readmitted, followed by newborns and patients with neurologic conditions. Patients with malignancies also experienced the greatest number of readmissions per patient (4.1). Most patients who were readmitted had only 1 readmission (71.5%), but the small subset of patients with 3 or more readmissions accounted for 43.7% of all 15-day readmissions. Disease recurrence and natural course of the original diagnosis were the most common reasons for readmission (44.9%), followed by planned readmissions (20.6%) and readmissions for a new, unrelated illness (7.7%).

CONCLUSIONS:

This report is the first description of the epidemiology of all 15-day pediatric readmissions at a children's hospital. The results of this study serve as a basis for additional analysis to determine the extent to which readmissions in the pediatric population may or may not be preventable.
Outcomes for Children Hospitalized With Abusive Versus Noninflicted Abdominal Trauma
Authors: Lane Wendy Gwirtzman , Lotwin Irwin , Dubowitz Howard , Langenberg Patricia , Dischinger Patricia
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND:

Abusive abdominal trauma (AAT) is the second leading cause of child abuse mortality. Previous outcome studies have been limited to data from trauma centers.

OBJECTIVES:

The goals of this study were (1) to examine mortality, length of hospitalization, and hospital charges among a national sample of children hospitalized for AAT; and (2) to compare these outcomes with children with noninflicted abdominal trauma.

METHODS:

Hospitalization data for children aged 0 to 9 years were obtained from the 2003 and 2006 Kids' Inpatient Database. Cases were identified using International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification and external cause of injury codes. Multivariable regression analyses were used to compare outcomes of children with AAT versus those with noninflicted injury.

RESULTS:

Children with AAT were younger, and more often insured by Medicaid. Among children surviving to discharge, those with AAT had longer hospitalizations (adjusted mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] length of stay: 7.9 (6.6–9.3) vs 6.4 (6.1–6.7) days, P < .01) and higher charges (adjusted mean [95% CI] costs: $24 343 [$20 952–$28 567] vs $19 341 [$18 770–$20 131]; P < .01). Among children aged 1 to 9 years, those with AAT had higher mortality (adjusted rate [95% CI]: 9.2% [5.0%–16.1%] vs 2.7% [2.2%–3.2%], P < .01). There was no significant difference in mortality for children aged younger than 1 year.

CONCLUSIONS:

Children hospitalized for AAT generally had poorer short-term outcomes compared with children with noninflicted abdominal trauma. Studies to explain these differences are needed. In addition, efforts to prevent these injuries and to assist families at risk should be supported.
Linezolid-Associated Peripheral and Optic Neuropathy in Children
Authors: Nambiar Sumathi , Rellosa Neil , Wassel Ronald T. , Borders-Hemphill Vicky , Bradley John S.
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

Peripheral neuropathy (PN) and optic neuropathy (ON) associated with linezolid use are described in the adult literature; however limited information is available in pediatrics. The purpose of this communication is to summarize pediatric cases of linezolid-associated neuropathy and to increase awareness of these neurologic side effects so that clinicians can most appropriately balance the benefits and risks of linezolid in the pediatric population.

METHODS:

A search of the FDA Adverse Events Reporting System was performed for all pediatric cases of neuropathy from April 2000–2009. AERS includes both inpatient and outpatient data. Inpatient utilization patterns for linezolid were also assessed from January 2000 to December 2008.

RESULTS:

Eight pediatric cases of linezolid-associated neuropathy were identified. Treatment duration ranged from 4 weeks to 1 year. Five patients had PN alone, one had only ON and two had both. Symptoms of PN included pain, numbness, weakness, and paresthesias. Symptoms of ON included decreased visual acuity and color vision. Three children had other adverse events associated with linezolid including acidosis, anemia, and leukopenia. Outcomes were reported in 5 cases. Resolution of symptoms occurred between 2 weeks and 6 months after discontinuation of linezolid. Utilization data showed that during the study period, overall inpatient utilization of linezolid had increased.

CONCLUSIONS:

While linezolid may be used to treat serious infections often needing extended courses of therapy, potential safety concerns should be kept in mind. In the circumstance of prolonged use of linezolid in children, it is likely that more cases of neuropathy may occur.
Cord Blood Vitamin D Deficiency Is Associated With Respiratory Syncytial Virus Bronchiolitis
Authors: Belderbos Mirjam E. , Houben Michiel L. , Wilbrink Berry , Lentjes Eef , Bloemen Eltje M. , Kimpen Jan L. L. , Rovers Maroeska , Bont Louis
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND:

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most important pathogen causing severe lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) in infants. Epidemiologic and basic studies suggest that vitamin D may protect against RSV LRTI.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the association between plasma vitamin D concentrations at birth and the subsequent risk of RSV LRTI.

DESIGN:

A prospective birth cohort study was performed in healthy term neonates. Concentrations of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25-OHD) in cord blood plasma were related to RSV LRTI in the first year of life, defined as parent-reported LRTI symptoms in a daily log and simultaneous presence of RSV RNA in a nose-throat specimen.

RESULTS:

The study population included 156 neonates. Eighteen (12%) developed RSV LRTI. The mean plasma 25-OHD concentration was 82 nmol/L. Overall, 27% of neonates had 25-OHD concentrations <50 nmol/L, 27% had 50-74 nmol/L and only 46% had 25-OHD 75 nmol/L. Cord blood 25-OHD concentrations were strongly associated with maternal vitamin D3 supplementation during pregnancy. Concentrations of 25-OHD were lower in neonates who subsequently developed RSV LRTI compared with those who did not (65 nmol/L versus 84 nmol/L, P = .009). Neonates born with 25-OHD concentrations <50 nmol/L had a sixfold (95% confidence interval: 1.6-24.9; P = .01) increased risk of RSV LRTI in the first year of life compared with those with 25-OHD concentrations ≥75 nmol/L.

CONCLUSIONS:

Vitamin D deficiency in healthy neonates is associated with increased risk of RSV LRTI in the first year of life. Intensified routine vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy may be a useful strategy to prevent RSV LRTI during infancy.
Pediatric Palliative Care Patients: A Prospective Multicenter Cohort Study
Authors: Feudtner Chris , Kang Tammy I. , Hexem Kari R. , Friedrichsdorf Stefan J. , Osenga Kaci , Siden Harold , Friebert Sarah E. , Hays Ross M. , Dussel Veronica , Wolfe Joanne
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To describe demographic and clinical characteristics and outcomes of patients who received hospital-based pediatric palliative care (PPC) consultations.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PATIENTS:

Prospective observational cohort study of all patients served by 6 hospital-based PPC teams in the United States and Canada from January to March 2008.

RESULTS:

There were 515 new (35.7%) or established (64.3%) patients who received care from the 6 programs during the 3-month enrollment interval. Of these, 54.0% were male, and 69.5% were identified as white and 8.1% as Hispanic. Patient age ranged from less than one month (4.7%) to 19 years or older (15.5%). Of the patients, 60.4% lived with both parents, and 72.6% had siblings. The predominant primary clinical conditions were genetic/congenital (40.8%), neuromuscular (39.2%), cancer (19.8%), respiratory (12.8%), and gastrointestinal (10.7%). Most patients had chronic use of some form of medical technology, with gastrostomy tubes (48.5%) being the most common. At the time of consultation, 47.2% of the patients had cognitive impairment; 30.9% of the cohort experienced pain. Patients were receiving many medications (mean: 9.1). During the 12-month follow-up, 30.3% of the cohort died; the median time from consult to death was 107 days. Patients who died within 30 days of cohort entry were more likely to be infants and have cancer or cardiovascular conditions.

CONCLUSIONS:

PPC teams currently serve a diverse cohort of children and young adults with life-threatening conditions. In contrast to the reported experience of adult-oriented palliative care teams, most PPC patients are alive for more than a year after initiating PPC.