bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rotavirus Infection Activates Dendritic Cells from Peyer's Patches in Adult Mice
Authors: Lopez-Guerrero Delia V. , Meza-Perez Selene , Ramirez-Pliego Oscar , Santana-Calderon Maria A. , Espino-Solis Pavel , Gutierrez-Xicotencatl Lourdes , Flores-Romo Leopoldo , Esquivel-Guadarrama Fernando R.
Published: December 2009

This study used anin vivomouse model to analyze the response of dendritic cells (DCs) in Peyer's patches (PPs) within the first 48 h of infection with the wild-type murine rotavirus EDIM (EDIMwt). After the infection, the absolute number of DCs was increased by 2-fold in the PPs without a modification of their relative percentage of the total cell number. Also, the DCs from PPs of infected mice showed a time-dependent migration to the subepithelial dome (SED) and an increase of the surface activation markers CD40, CD80, and CD86. This response was more evident at 48 h postinfection (p.i.) and depended on viral replication, since DCs from PPs of mice inoculated with UV-treated virus did not show this phenotype. As a result of the activation, the DCs showed an increase in the expression of mRNA for the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin-12/23p40 (IL-12/23p40), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and beta interferon (IFN-β), as well as for the regulatory cytokine IL-10. These results suggest that, a short time after rotavirus infection, the DCs from PPs play a critical role in controlling the infection and, at the same time, avoiding an excessive inflammatory immune response.
α-PARTICLE CONDENSED STATE IN 16O
Authors: FUNAKI Y. , YAMADA T. , HORIUCHI H. , RÖPKE G. , SCHUCK P. , TOHSAKI A.
Published: December 2009

The α-particle condensed state in 16 O is investigated by the use of 4α OCM (Orthogonality Condition Model). Low-lying spectrum in experiment is well reproduced up to around the 4α threshold. Furthermore, the excited state obtained around the 4α threshold as the [Formula: see text] state is shown to have a dilute density structure and give strong enhancement of the occupation of the S-state c.o.m. orbital of the α-particles. This is strong evidence that the state is regarded as the 4α condensed state. It also has a large component of [Formula: see text] configuration, which is another reliable evidence of the state to be of 4α condensate nature.
EVOLUTION OF SHELL CLOSURES IN MEAN-FIELD-BASED MODELS: CONTRIBUTIONS BEYOND THE STATIC SPHERICAL MEAN FIELD TO OBSERVABLE SIGNATURES OF SHELL EVOLUTION
Authors: BENDER MICHAEL
Published: December 2009

A summary is given of recent work that provides evidence that the functional form of of the nuclear energy density functional, the rearrangement of the self-consistent mean field when changing neutron and proton number, and explicit fluctuations in collective degrees of freedom should be considered simultaneously when analyzing the evolution of shell structure in terms of nuclear energy density functional methods.
Tumor necrosis factor induces matrix metalloproteinases in cardiomyocytes and cardiofibroblasts differentially via superoxide production in a PI3Kγ-dependent manner
Authors: Awad Ahmed E. , Kandalam Vijay , Chakrabarti Subhadeep , Wang Xiuhua , Penninger Josef M. , Davidge Sandra T. , Oudit Gavin Y. , Kassiri Zamaneh
Published: December 2009

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is an inflammatory cytokine that is upregulated in a number of cardiomyopathies. Adverse cardiac remodeling and dilation result from degradation of the extracellular matrix by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). We investigated whether TNF can directly trigger expression and activation of MMPs in cardiac cells. We compared MMP expression profile and activities between primary cultures of mouse neonatal cardiomyocytes and cardiofibroblasts and in cellular and extracellular compartments. In response to recombinant TNF (rTNF, 20 ng/ml), cardiomyocytes exhibited faster and more pronounced superoxide production compared with cardiofibroblasts, concomitant with increased expression of several MMPs. MMP9 levels increased more rapidly and about twofold more in cardiomyocytes than in cardiofibroblasts. TNF did not induce MMP2 expression. Expression of collagenases (MMP8, MMP12, MMP13, and MMP14) increased significantly, while total collagenase activity increased to a greater degree in conditioned medium of cardiomyocytes than in cardiofibroblasts. rTNF-mediated MMP expression and activation were dependent on superoxide production and were blocked by apocynin, an NADPH oxidase inhibitor. We identified phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)γ as a key factor in TNF-mediated events since TNF-induced superoxide production, MMP expression, and activity were significantly suppressed in cardiomyocytes and cardiofibroblasts deficient in PI3Kγ. We further demonstrated that the TNF-superoxide-MMP axis of events is in fact activated in heart disease in vivo. Wild-type and TNF−/− mice subjected to cardiac pressure overload revealed that TNF deficiency resulted in reduced superoxide levels, collagenase activities, PI3K activity, and fibrosis leading to attenuated cardiac dilation and dysfunction. Our study demonstrates that TNF triggers expression and activation of MMPs faster and stronger in cardiomyocytes than in cardiofibroblasts in a superoxide-dependent manner and via activation of PI3Kγ, thereby contributing to adverse myocardial remodeling in disease.
The antidiuretic neurohormone RhoprCAPA-2 downregulates fluid transport across the anterior midgut in the blood-feeding insect Rhodnius prolixus
Authors: Ianowski Juan P. , Paluzzi Jean-Paul , Te Brugge Victoria A. , Orchard Ian
Published: December 2009

Osmotic balance in insects is regulated by the excretory system, consisting of Malpighian tubules and the gut under the control of diuretic and antidiuretic factors. Terrestrial insects must conserve water, and antidiuresis is the norm, only interrupted by brief diuretic periods. Surprisingly, little is known about antidiuresis in insects. Two antidiuretic strategies have been described. The first antidiuretic mechanism involves the reabsorption of fluid from the primary urine in the hindgut. More recently, a second antidiuretic strategy was reported, consisting of inhibition of primary urine formation by the Malpighian tubules. Recently, we isolated, characterized, and cloned the gene encoding for the antidiuretic neurohormone (the neuropeptide RhoprCAPA-2) acting on the Malpighian tubules of Rhodnius prolixus . Here we describe a third, novel mechanism central to the antidiuretic strategy of R. prolixus , the inhibition of ion and fluid transport across the anterior midgut by RhoprCAPA-2. Our results show that RhoprCAPA-2 (1 μmol/l) reduces serotonin-stimulated fluid transport from 83 ± 11 to 12 ± 12 nl/min and equivalent short-circuit current from 20 ± 4 to 5 ± 0.7 μA/cm2in diuretic hormone-stimulated anterior midgut. RhoprCAPA-2 appears to function independently of intracellular cGMP or Ca2+in the midgut. Thus, the antidiuretic neurohormone RhoprCAPA-2 has multiple target tissues, and we hypothesize that RhoprCAPA-2 functions to coordinate the transport activity of the anterior midgut and Malpighian tubules so that the rate of fluid transport into the haemolymph by the anterior midgut matches the transport rate of Malpighian tubules to maintain the volume and ion composition of haemolymph.
Mitochondrial content and distribution changes specific to mouse diaphragm after chronic normobaric hypoxia
Authors: Gamboa Jorge L. , Andrade Francisco H.
Published: December 2009

Chronic hypoxia reduces aerobic capacity (mitochondrial content) in limb skeletal muscles, and one of the causes seems to be decreased physical activity. Diaphragm and other respiratory muscles, however, may have a different pattern of adaptation as hypoxia increases the work of breathing. Thus, we hypothesized that chronic hypoxia would not reduce mitochondrial content in mouse diaphragm. Adult male C57BL/6J mice were kept in normoxia (FiO2= 21%, control) or normobaric hypoxia (FiO2= 10%, hypoxia) for 1, 2, and 4 wk. Mice were then killed, and the diaphragm and gastrocnemius muscles collected for analysis. In the diaphragm, cytochrome c oxidase histochemistry showed less intense staining in the hypoxia group. The total content of subunits from the electron transport chain, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 1 (PDK1), and voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) was evaluated by Western blot. These proteins decreased by 25–30% after 4 wk of hypoxia ( P < 0.05 vs. control for all comparisons), matching a comparable decrease in diaphragmatic mitochondrial volume density (control 33.6 ± 5.5% vs. hypoxia 26.8 ± 6.7%, P = 0.013). Mitochondrial volume density or protein content did not change in gastrocnemius after hypoxia. Hypoxia decreased the content of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) and PPARγ cofactor 1-alpha (PGC-1α) in diaphragm but not in gastrocnemius. PGC-1α mRNA levels in diaphragm were also reduced with hypoxia. BCL2/adenovirus E1B interacting protein 3 (BNIP-3) mRNA levels were upregulated after 1 and 2 wk of hypoxia in diaphragm and gastrocnemius, respectively; BNIP-3 protein content increased only in the diaphragm after 4 wk of hypoxia. Contrary to our hypothesis, these results show that chronic hypoxia decreases mitochondrial content in mouse diaphragm, despite the increase in workload. A combination of reduced mitochondrial biogenesis and increased mitophagy seems to be responsible for the decrease in mitochondrial content in the mouse diaphragm after hypoxia.
Antisickling property of fetal hemoglobin enhances nitric oxide bioavailability and ameliorates organ oxidative stress in transgenic-knockout sickle mice
Authors: Dasgupta Trisha , Fabry Mary E. , Kaul Dhananjay K.
Published: December 2009

In sickle cell disease (SCD), the events originating from hemoglobin S polymerization and intravascular sickling lead to reperfusion injury, hemolysis, decreased nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is implicated as a contributing factor to multiple organ damage in SCD. We hypothesize that inhibition of sickling by genetic manipulation to enhance antisickling fetal hemoglobin (HbF) expression will have an ameliorating effect on oxidative stress by decreasing intravascular sickling and hemolysis and enhancing NO bioavailability. We tested this hypothesis in BERK (Berkeley) mice expressing exclusively human α- and βS-globins and varying levels of HbF, i.e., BERK (<1% HbF), BERKγM (20% HbF) and BERKγH (40% HbF). Intravascular sickling showed a distinct decrease with increased expression of HbF, which was accompanied by decreased hemolysis and increased NO metabolites (NOx) levels. Consistent with decreased intravascular sickling and increased NO bioavailability, BERKγM and BERKγH mice showed markedly decreased lipid peroxidation accompanied by increased activity/levels of antioxidants [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced glutathione (GSH)] in the muscle, kidney, and liver compared with BERK mice ( P < 0.05–0.0001). NOxlevels showed a strong inverse correlation with hemolytic rate and oxidative stress. Decreased oxidative stress in the presence of elevated HbF levels led to an anti-inflammatory effect as evidenced by decreased peripheral leukocyte counts. These results show that the protective effect of HbF is mediated primarily by decreasing intravascular sickling resulting in decreased oxidative stress and increased NO bioavailability.
GTPase-Rac enhances depolarization-induced superoxide production by the macula densa during tubuloglomerular feedback
Authors: Liu Ruisheng , Juncos Luis A.
Published: December 2009

Superoxide (O2− ) enhances tubuloglomerular feedback (TGF) by scavenging nitric oxide at the macula densa (MD). The primary source of O2− in the MD during TGF is NADPH oxidase, which is activated by membrane depolarization. While Rac, a small GTP-binding protein, has been shown to enhance NADPH oxidase activity, its role in O2− generation by the MD is unknown. We hypothesized that depolarization of the MD leads to translocation of Rac to the apical membrane, and its activation, in turn, augments O2− generation during TGF. We tested this by measuring membrane potential and increased O2− levels during TGF responses in isolated, perfused tubules containing the intact MD plaque. Switching tubular NaCl from 10 to 80 mM, which induces TGF, depolarized membrane potential by 28.4 ± 4.5% from control ( P < 0.05) and O2− levels from 124 ± 19 to 361 ± 27 U/min. This NaCl-induced depolarization and O2− generation were blocked by a Cl− channel blocker, 5-nitro-2(3-phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid (NPPB; 10−6 M). Inhibition of Rac blunted NaCl-induced O2− generation by 47%. When the NaCl content of the MD perfusate was increased from 10 to 80 mM, immunointensity of Rac on the apical side increased from 32 ± 3.1 to 46 ± 2.5% of the total immunofluorescence in the MD, indicating that high NaCl induces the translocation of Rac to the apical membrane. This NaCl-induced Rac translocation was blocked by a Cl− channel blocker, NPPB, indicating that depolarization of the MD induced Rac translocation. In conclusion, we found that depolarization of the MD during TGF leads to translocation of Rac to the apical membrane, which enhances O2− generation by the MD.
De novo expression of podocyte proteins in parietal epithelial cells during experimental glomerular disease
Authors: Ohse Takamoto , Vaughan Michael R. , Kopp Jeffrey B. , Krofft Ronald D. , Marshall Caroline B. , Chang Alice M. , Hudkins Kelly L. , Alpers Charles E. , Pippin Jeffrey W. , Shankland Stuart J.
Published: December 2009

Studies have shown that certain cells of the glomerular tuft begin to express proteins considered unique to other cell types upon injury. Little is known about the response of parietal epithelial cells (PEC) to injury. To determine whether PECs change their phenotype upon injury to also express proteins traditionally considered podocyte specific, the following four models of glomerular disease were studied: the transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 transgenic mouse model of global glomerulosclerosis, the adriamycin model of focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), the anti-glomerular basement membrane (GBM) model of crescentic glomerulonephritis, and the passive Heymann nephritis model of membranous nephropathy. Double immunostaining was performed with antibodies to podocyte-specific proteins (synaptopodin and Wilms' tumor 1) and antibodies to PEC specific proteins (paired box gene 8 and claudin-1). No double staining was detected in normal mice. In contrast, the results showed a statistical increase in the number of cells attached to Bowman basement membrane that were double-positive for both podocyte/PEC proteins in TGF-β;1 transgenic, anti-GBM, and membranous animals. Double-positive cells for both podocyte and PEC proteins were also statistically increased in the glomerular tuft in TGF-β1 transgenic, anti-GBM, and FSGS mice. These results are consistent with glomerular cells coexpressing podocyte and PEC proteins in experimental glomerular disease, but not under normal circumstances.
Short-term stimulation of the thiazide-sensitive Na+-Cl−cotransporter by vasopressin involves phosphorylation and membrane translocation
Authors: Mutig K. , Saritas T. , Uchida S. , Kahl T. , Borowski T. , Paliege A. , Böhlick A. , Bleich M. , Shan Q. , Bachmann S.
Published: December 2009

Vasopressin influences salt and water transport in renal epithelia. This is coordinated by the combined action of V2receptor-mediated effects along distinct nephron segments. Modulation of NaCl reabsorption by vasopressin has been established in the loop of Henle, but its role in the distal convoluted tubule (DCT), an effective site for fine regulation of urinary electrolyte composition and the target for thiazide diuretics, is largely unknown. The Na+-Cl−cotransporter (NCC) of DCT is activated by luminal trafficking and phosphorylation at conserved NH2-terminal residues. Here, we demonstrate the effects of short-term vasopressin administration (30 min) on NCC activation in Brattleboro rats with central diabetes insipidus (DI) using the V2receptor agonist desmopressin (dDAVP). The fraction of NCC abundance in the luminal plasma membrane was significantly increased upon dDAVP as shown by confocal microscopy, immunogold cytochemistry, and Western blot, suggesting increased apical trafficking of the transporter. Changes were paralleled by augmented phosphorylation of NCC as detected by antibodies against phospho-threonine and phospho-serine residues (2.5-fold increase at Thr53 and 1.4-fold increase at Ser71). dDAVP-induced phosphorylation of NCC, studied in tubular suspensions in the absence of systemic effects, was enhanced as well (1.7-fold increase at Ser71), which points to the direct mode of action of vasopressin in DCT. Changes were more pronounced in early (DCT1) than in late DCT as distinguished by the distribution of 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 in DCT2. These results suggest that the vasopressin-V2receptor-NCC signaling cascade is a novel effector system to adjust transepithelial NaCl reabsorption in DCT.
Corticosteroid-induced kidney dysmorphogenesis is associated with deregulated expression of known cystogenic molecules, as well as indian hedgehog
Authors: Chan Shun-Kai , Riley Paul R. , Price Karen L. , McElduff Fiona , Winyard Paul J. , Welham Simon J. M. , Woolf Adrian S. , Long David A.
Published: December 2009

An intact genome is essential for kidney growth and differentiation, but less is known about whether, and how, an altered fetal milieu modifies these processes. Maternal low-protein diets perturb growth of the metanephros, the precursor of the mature kidney. Fetal corticosteroid overexposure may, in part, mediate this, because such diets downregulate placental 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2, which degrades maternal corticosteroids. We report that glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors are expressed in mouse metanephric epithelia. Metanephroi maintained in organ culture with hydrocortisone (1.4 or 14 μM) underwent a dose-dependant deceleration of overall growth accompanied by cyst formation. Dexamethasone, a glucocorticoid, reproduced these outcomes, but aldosterone, a mineralocorticoid, did not. Hydrocortisone upregulated transcripts levels of cadherin-11 and downregulated prospero-related homeobox-1, hence mimicking reported effects of maternal low-protein diet. Hydrocortisone also upregulated transcripts encoding Na+-K+-ATPase subunits and ligands for the epidermal growth factor receptor, all previously implicated in renal cyst growth. The most upregulated transcript, however, was indian hedgehog, and the encoded protein was immunodetected in metanephric cysts. Furthermore, in the presence of hydrocortisone, cystogenesis, but not whole organ growth, was significantly reduced by cyclopamine, a drug downregulating hedgehog signaling. Finally, both glucocorticoid receptor and indian hedgehog proteins were detected by immunohistochemistry in cystic tubules within human dysplastic kidneys, consistent with the hypothesis that these molecules modify the severity of this congenital malformation. Collectively, our observations raise the possibility that enhanced hedgehog signaling is an important stimulus for renal cyst formation. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of this pathway should be explored as a potential therapy for renal cystic diseases, starting with relevant animal models.
Detection of Autoantibodies against Recombinant Desmoglein 1 and 3 Molecules in Patients with Pemphigus vulgaris: Correlation with Disease Extent at the Time of Diagnosis and during Follow-Up
Authors: Belloni-Fortina Anna , Faggion Diana , Pigozzi Barbara , Peserico Andrea , Bordignon Matteo , Baldo Vincenzo , Alaibac Mauro
Published: December 2009

The recent availability of cDNA clones for pemphigus antigens has allowed the production of recombinant desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 molecules and the development of an ELISA approach in order to determine levels of antibodies to them. The aim of the study was to determine the relationship between autoantibodies levels and the extent of both mucosal and skin lesions in 20 patients with pemphigus vulgaris at the time of diagnosis and during follow-up. For the detection of autoantibodies by ELISA we used the recombinant proteins expressing overlapping sequences with the entire extracellular desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 domains. We showed that in presence of mucosal lesions there was a correlation between extension of mucosal involvement and autoantiboidies titres against both desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3, whereas in presence of skin lesions there was a statistically significant correlation between extension of skin lesions and autoantibodies titres against desmoglein 3, but not against desmoglein 1. A not negligible number of patients showed variations of the desmoglein 3 autoantibodies titre which did not correlate with the severity of both cutaneous and mucosal involvement. Similar results were obtained analyzing autoantibodies titres against desmoglein 1. In conclusion, we believe that the utilization of recombinant desmoglein 1 and desmoglein 3 proteins by ELISA should be used with caution to monitor disease severity and response to therapy, although it remains a high specific test for the initial diagnosis of pemphigus and the identification of a change in the clinical phenotype of this condition.
Convenient Approach to Access Octa-Glycosylated Porphyrins via “Click Chemistry”
Authors: Okada Misako , Kishibe Yuko , Ide Kanako , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Hasegawa Teruaki
Published: December 2009

Easy, quantitative, and one-pot introduction of eight β-lactoside-modules onto a porphyrin-core was achieved through Cu+-catalyzed chemoselective coupling (click chemistry) between a porphyrin carrying eight alkyne-terminals and β-lactosyl azides. The obtained porphyrin-based glycocluster shows not only good water-solubility but also strong/specific lectin-affinity.
Enhanced Interaction between Warfarin and High-Dose Ketoconazole: A Case Report
Authors: Jackevicius Cynthia A. , Ton Mannhu N.
Published: December 2009

This case describes the increased anticoagulation effect associated with the use of high-dose ketoconazole. A 59-year-old man treated with warfarin for aortic valve replacement was prescribed high-dose ketoconazole and hydrocortisone for the treatment of prostate cancer. Despite lowering the warfarin dosage by 35% during the start of high dose ketoconazole, an additional dose reduction was required subsequently when the INR rose from 2.62 to 3.82 within nine days. After a total dose reduction of 43%, the INR returned to therapeutic range within two weeks. The Naranjo probability scale revealed a probable adverse reaction of increased anticoagulant effect associated with high dose ketoconazole. Due to the inhibition of warfarin metabolism by ketoconazole, patients taking high dose ketoconazole concomitantly with warfarin may need their warfarin dosage reduced by more than is currently recommended, as well as receive more frequent INR monitoring to avoid over anticoagulation.
Approximation and Shape Preserving Properties of the Bernstein Operator of Max‐Product Kind
Authors: Bede Barnabás , Coroianu Lucian , Gal Sorin G.
Published: December 2009

Starting from the study of the Shepard nonlinear operator of max-prod
type by Bede et al. (2006, 2008), in the book by Gal (2008), Open Problem 5.5.4, pages 324–326, the Bernstein max-prod-type operator is introduced and the question of the approximation order by this operator is raised. In recent paper, Bede and Gal by using a very complicated method to this open question an answer is given by obtaining an upper estimate of the approximation error of the form (with an unexplicit absolute constant C > 0) and the
question of improving the order of approximation is raised. The first aim of this note is to obtain this order of approximation but by a simpler method, which in addition presents, at least, two advantages: it produces an explicit constant in front of and it can easily be extended to other max‐prod operators of Bernstein type. However, for subclasses of functions f including, for example, that of concave functions, we find the order of approximation ω1(f; 1/n), which for many functions f is essentially better than the order of approximation obtained by the linear Bernstein operators. Finally, some shape‐preserving properties are obtained.
Lectins from the Red Marine Algal SpeciesBryothamnion seaforthiiandBryothamnion triquetrumas Tools to Differentiate Human Colon Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Pinto Vicente P. T. , Debray Henri , Dus Danuta , Teixeira Edson H. , de Oliveira Taianá Maia , Carneiro Victor Alves , Teixeira Alrieta H. , Filho Gerardo C. , Nagano Celso S. , Nascimento Kyria S. , Sampaio Alexandre H. , Cavada Benildo S.
Published: December 2009

The carbohydrate-binding activity of the algal lectins from the closely related red marine algal species Bryothamnion triquetrum (BTL) and Bryothamnion seaforthii (BSL) was used to differentiate human colon carcinoma cell variants with respect to their cell membrane glyco-receptors. These lectins interacted with the cells tested in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the fluorescence spectra of both lectins clearly differentiated the cells used as shown by FACS profiles. Furthermore, as observed by confocal microscopy, BTL and BSL bound to cell surface glycoproteins underwent intense internalization, which makes them possible tools in targeting strategies.
Solvability of Nonlinear Langevin Equation Involving Two Fractional Orders with Dirichlet Boundary Conditions
Authors: Ahmad Bashir , Nieto Juan J.
Published: December 2009

We study a Dirichlet boundary value problem for Langevin equation involving two fractional orders. Langevin equation has been widely used to describe the evolution of physical phenomena in fluctuating environments. However, ordinary Langevin equation does not provide the correct description of the dynamics for systems in complex media. In order to overcome this problem and describe dynamical processes in a fractal medium, numerous generalizations of Langevin equation have been proposed. One such generalization replaces the ordinary derivative by a fractional derivative in the Langevin equation. This gives rise to the fractional Langevin equation with a single index. Recently, a new type of Langevin equation with two different fractional orders has been introduced which provides a more flexible model for fractal processes as compared with the usual one characterized by a single index. The contraction mapping principle and Krasnoselskii′s fixed point theorem are applied to prove the existence of solutions of the problem in a Banach space.
Oral Factor Xa Inhibitors for Venous Thromboembolism Prevention in Major Orthopedic Surgery: A Review
Authors: Imberti Davide , Prisco Domenico
Published: December 2009

Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing major orthopedic surgery, and routine thromboprophylaxis has been the standard of care over the last 20 years. Currently available options for the prevention of VTE in major orthopedic surgery include low-molecular-weight heparins, vitamin K antagonists and, more recently, the synthetic pentasaccharide fondaparinux. Although effective, these drugs have several limitations, and new oral antithrombotics offering predictable, effective and safe anticoagulation are strongly needed. This overview focuses on the most advanced oral direct inhibitors of factor Xa, rivaroxaban, apixaban, LY517717, YM150 and betrixaban. Specifically, the results of phase II and III studies and the designs of ongoing clinical trials in patients undergoing elective hip and knee replacement are reviewed.
A Rice Variety (HYJA-Ri4) Enhances Arterial Thrombus Formation in an Animal Model of Thrombosis
Authors: Naemura Aki , Ijiri Yoshinobu , Kodama Mitsuhiro , Honda Yoshinori , Yamamoto Junichiro
Published: December 2009

Epidemiological evidence exists for a causative role of inappropriate diets in the development and clinical outcome of thrombotic diseases. Our previous studies have shown that some fruits and vegetables have antithrombotic activity. As rice is a principal ingredient of everyday food in Japan, the aim of the present study was to determine rice varieties with antithrombotic effect. Western-style high-fat diet containing flour prepared from whole-grain rice of different varieties was fed to atherosclerosis-prone (apolipoprotein E- and low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient) mice for 3 months. A laser-induced carotid-artery thrombosis model was used. None of the five tested rice varieties showed an antithrombotic effect. The effect of HYJA-Ri1, HYJA-Ri2, HYJA-Ri3 and HYJA-Ri5 rice on experimental thrombus formation did not differ significantly from the controls. However, HYJA-Ri4 rice significantly enhanced the thrombotic reaction (p = 0.0078), thus having a prothrombotic effect. Our findings suggest that HYJA-Ri4 rice should not be included in an antithrombotic diet.
Effects of Alteplase, a Thrombolytic Agent, in a Rat Photothrombotic Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion Model
Authors: Umemura Kazuo , Higo Katsuya , Sakata Takeshi , Yuki Satoshi , Iwata Koji , Yamaguchi Kazumasa
Published: December 2009

In this study, we examined the effects of alteplase, a recombinant tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), in a simple and reproducible rat middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion model induced by photoillumination with 12 mg/kg of rose bengal. A clinically equivalent dose of alteplase (3 mg/kg), which was administered just after thrombotic occlusion of the MCA, significantly reopened the thrombotic MCA occlusion in 16 of 23 animals (69.6%) when compared with vehicle-treated animals (8 of 22 animals, 36.4%). In addition, alteplase significantly reduced cerebral damage and improved neurological deficits. Although it has been reported that t-PA possesses neurotoxicity, the present findings suggest that alteplase was effective in a rat acute stroke model due to reopening of thrombotic MCA occlusion. This new model is very useful for investigating the efficacy of thrombolytic agents in stroke research, providing a condition similar to the clinical setting.
Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Increases the Platelet Volume in Peripheral Stem Cell Apheresis Donors
Authors: Ihara Akihiro , Matsui Keiko , Minami Ryouta , Uchida Shuzou , Ueda Shuji , Nishiura Tetsuo
Published: December 2009

We investigated the short-term influence of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) administration on platelet counts and platelet indices in 12 donors (8 males and 4 females; median age 34 years, range 16–49) for peripheral stem cell transplantation using an automated blood cell analyzer. On day 3 (D3) compared with D0, 11 donors with normal laboratory and physical findings showed increases in platelet indices (χ2 = 12.0, p = 0.0025). Furthermore, mean platelet volume (MPV) was significantly increased (p = 0.04). Also, platelet count decreased, and platelet distribution width and platelet-large cell ratio were increased, but these were not significant. On the contrary, 1 donor with abnormal laboratory findings who had large platelets (MPV 11.4 fl) before G-CSF administration showed decreases in platelet indices (MPV 10.3 fl) on D3, although platelet count (18.2 × 104/μl) decreased after G-CSF administration. G-CSF administration induces an inflammatory process with endothelial cell activation. This is probably the reason why platelet volume increases after G-CSF use. This is the first report showing that G-CSF administration immediately induces increases in large platelets in peripheral stem cell transplant donors before harvest.
Incidence of Deep Venous Thrombosis in Patients with Erysipelas of the Leg: Prospective Study of 30 Cases in an Emergency Department
Authors: Zaghdoudi Imen , Rezgui Monia , Zouaoui Wathak , Marhbene Takoua , Jendoubi Ali , El Fatimi Rim , Borsali-Falfoul Nébiha , Daghfous Mohamed Habib , Jerbi Zouhair
Published: December 2009

The treatment of lower limb erysipelas is based on anti-streptococcal antibiotherapy. The indication of adjuvant anticoagulant therapy is not clear because of the lack of data about the incidence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) in these patients. We performed a prospective study using a colour Doppler vein exploration combined with ultrasonography within the first 48 h, with evaluation of clinical probability of DVT according to the Wells score to assess the incidence of DVT in patients with erysipelas of the lower limb. Of 30 patients studied, 3 DVT were diagnosed: 2 distal DVT (posterior tibial vein) and 1 proximal DVT (superficial femoral vein) in patients having a clinical score ≥3. Pulmonary embolism was diagnosed in 2 cases. The incidence of DVTin our study was 10%.DVT should be considered in patients with erysipelas of the lower limb having a high pretest clinical probability.
Plasma Total Homocysteine Levels and Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase Gene Polymorphism in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Soares Anna L. , Fernandes Ana P. , Cardoso Jarbas E. , Sousa Marinez O. , Lasmar Marcelo C. , Novelli Bethânia A. , Lages Geralda F. , Dusse Luci M. , Vieira Lauro M. , Lwaleed Bashir A. , Carvalho Maria G.
Published: December 2009

Background: Thrombotic episodes account for approximately 80% of deaths in type 2 diabetic patients. Hyperhomocysteinaemia is a well recognized independent risk factor for atherosclerosis and thromboembolism. Increased homocysteine levels may occur due to a number of factors including inherited gene polymorphism of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T. Here, we evaluate plas- ma total homocysteine (tHcy) levels and frequency of the MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism in asymptomatic healthy volunteers and type 2 diabetic patients with hypertension but without nephropathy. We have also investigated the relationship between tHcy levels and the presence of MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism. Methods: Plasma tHcy levels and MTHFR C677T genotype were investigated in a total of 53 subjects. These included asymptomatic healthy volunteers (n = 16), patients with type 2 diabetes (n = 7), subjects with hypertension (n = 12) and patients with both type 2 diabetes and hypertension (n = 18). Renal function, serum lipids and other metabolites were also assessed. Results: There was no significant difference in tHcy levels between the groups studied. The frequency of MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism observed was similar to that obtained for the general Brazilian population. In patients with type 2 diabetes and hypertension but without impaired renal function, we observed no meaningful correlation between increased tHcy levels and the presence of MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism. Conclusions: Type 2 diabetics who are homozygous or heterozygous for the MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism showed normal tHcy levels. Our results further suggest that diabetes without an associated adverse risk profile is not an independent correlate of increased tHcy levels.
Personality Features in Subjective Cognitive Impairment and Mild Cognitive Impairment – Early Indicators of Dementia
Authors: Ausén Birgitta , Edman Gunnar , Almkvist Ove , Bogdanovic Nenad
Published: December 2009

Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to investigate patterns of personality in patients with subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI), compared to healthy controls. Methods: We assessed24 patients with SCI, 35 patients with MCI and 26 healthy controls with the self-report questionnaire Swedish Universities Scales of Personality measuring aspects of neuroticism/anxiety proneness, extraversion, and aggression-hostility. Results: Patients with SCI and MCI showed significantly more Somatic Trait Anxiety, Psychic Trait Anxiety and Stress Susceptibility than healthy controls. Moreover, there was a significant increase in Detachment in patients with MCI and a significant decrease in Adventure Seeking in patients with SCI, relative to healthy controls. Conclusions: Patients with SCI and MCI presented specific patterns of personality alterations with higher scores in traits related to anxiety proneness and aggression-hostility and lower in traits of extraversion. In most subscales differences followed a sequential pattern with gradually increasing scores from healthy controls, to patients with SCI and further to MCI. The groups differed in amount and type of symptoms, suggesting that patterns of personality may be related to degree of cognitive impairment.
Vitamin E Use Is Associated with Improved Survival in an Alzheimer’s Disease Cohort
Authors: Pavlik Valory N. , Doody Rachelle S. , Rountree Susan D. , Darby Eveleen J.
Published: December 2009

Background: Vitamin E at a dose of 2,000 IU per day has been shown to delay Alzheimer’s disease (AD) progression, but recent studies have questioned the safety of this dose level and the overall efficacy of vitamin E in AD treatment. Methods: We analyzed the survival history of 847 probable or mixed AD patients followed in a research center between 1990 and the censoring date of December 31, 2004. Standard practice during this period was to recommend vitamin E at 1,000 IU twice daily to all patients. We used Cox proportional hazards modeling to assess the association of vitamin E alone, or in combination with a cholinesterase inhibitor (ChEI), with all-cause mortality, adjusting for important covariates. Approximately two thirds of the patients took vitamin E with a ChEI, 10% took vitamin E alone, and 15% took no antidementia drug. Results: The adjusted hazard ratio (HR) associated with vitamin E (with or without a ChEI) was 0.71 (95% CI: 0.57–0.89; p = 0.003). Compared to the no drug treatment group, the HR for vitamin E alone or with another drug was 0.77 (95% CI: 0.60–1.0); the HR for ChEI use alone was 1.2 (95% CI: 0.87–1.60). Conclusion: The results do not support a concern over increased mortality with high-dose vitamin E supplementation.
Six Months of Daily High-Dose Xylitol in High-Risk Schoolchildren: A Randomized Clinical Trial on Plaque pH and Salivary Mutans Streptococci
Authors: Campus G. , Cagetti M.G. , Sacco G. , Solinas G. , Mastroberardino S. , Lingström P.
Published: December 2009

A randomized clinical trial was designed to evaluate the effect of daily high-dose xylitol chewing gum on plaque pH and salivary mutans streptococci (MS) in a sample of schoolchildren at high risk of caries. The study was performed on 204 subjects (acceptance rate 88.3%). Inclusion criteria were: >1 and <4 carious lesions, and a salivary MS concentration >105 CFU/ml. Subjects were randomly assigned to the xylitol or control group. Study design included one examination at baseline (t₀), one after 3 months of chewing (t1), one after 6 months of chewing (t2) and the last 3 months after the end of chewing period (t3). Plaque pH was assessed using the MicroTouch technique, following a sucrose challenge. The area under the curve (AUC5.7 and AUC6.2) was recorded. Whole saliva was collected in sterile vials and MS CFU/ml were counted. Data were analysed using repeated-measures ANOVA. The main result was that plaque acidogenicity was reduced in both groups. The differences between treatments were statistically significant both for plaque pH and MS concentration; the interaction term for treatment and time was statistically significant (p < 0.01). At t2, the xylitol group children with a salivary MS concentration >105 and those with ≤105 showed significantly lower AUC5.7 and AUC6.2 values than the control group. These results suggest that the long-term use of high-dose non-sucrose chewing gums had beneficial effects on plaque pH, and that this effect was statistically greater when using xylitol chewing gums, both on plaque pH and MS salivary concentration.
Effect of Various Rinsing Protocols after Use of Amine Fluoride/Stannous Fluoride Toothpaste on the Bacterial Composition of Dental Plaque
Authors: van Loveren C. , Gerardu V.A.M. , Sissons C.H. , van Bekkum M. , ten Cate J.M.
Published: December 2009

This clinical study evaluated the effect of different oral hygiene protocols on the bacterial composition of dental plaque. After a 2-week period of using fluoride-free toothpaste, 30 participants followed three 1-week experimental protocols, each followed by 2-week fluoride-free washout periods in a randomized crossover examiner-blind controlled trial. The 1-week experimental protocols comprised the use of AmF/SnF2 toothpaste twice daily, after which participants either (1) rinsed with tap water, (2) did not rinse but only spat out the toothpaste, or (3) rinsed with an AmF/SnF2 mouthwash. In the fluoride-free washout periods, the participants brushed their teeth with fluoride-free toothpaste without further instructions. Six hours after the last brushing (± rinsing) of each period, buccal plaque samples in the upper molar region were taken. The microbiota composition of the plaque samples was analyzed by checkerboard DNA:DNA hybridization. A statistically significant reduction was found in the total amount of DNA of the 39 major plaque species measured, and in the proportions of some acid-producing bacterial strains after the period having used the AmF/SnF2 toothpaste + AmF/SnF2 mouthrinsing. The results indicate that using the AmF/SnF2 toothpaste and rinse combination could result in plaque of lower cariogenicity.
Randomized Equivalence Trial of Intensive and Semiannual Applications of Fluoride Varnish in the Primary Dentition
Authors: Weinstein P. , Spiekerman C. , Milgrom P.
Published: December 2009

For children in the primary dentition with high caries prevalence the standard semiannual application of fluoride varnish may not be successful in preventing tooth decay. Oftentimes this population is mobile and does not receive consistent preventive care. This trial tested whether an intensive fluoride 5% sodium varnish regimen (three applications/2 weeks) applied annually has an equivalent effect on caries progression in the primary dentition compared to single applications applied semiannually. This study was a randomized clinical trial with two treatment groups. All participants (n = 600; mean age ± SD = 55.3 ± 4.6 months) received three varnish applications (active varnish or placebo) at semiannual visits over 3 years. Once per year the intensive-treatment group received one set of three active treatments and three placebo treatments 6 months later, each time within 2 weeks. The standard group received one active and two placebo treatments every 6 months. Children were assessed clinically at baseline and 12, 24 and 36 months after the initiation of the study. The mean (SD) numbers of newly decayed primary tooth surfaces observed over 3 years were 9.8 (8.6) and 7.4 (7.7) in the intensive and standard groups, respectively. The adjusted rate ratio was 1.13 (95% CI = 0.94–1.37, p = 0.20). In conclusion, the trial failed to demonstrate clear evidence of a difference in efficacy. However, differences of up to 36% greater rates of caries in the intensive group could not be ruled out, thus equivalence of the treatments cannot be concluded.
Cross-Sectional Hardness of Enamel from Human Teeth at Different Posteruptive Ages
Authors: Cardoso C.A.B. , Magalhães A.C. , Rios D. , Lima J.E.O.
Published: December 2009

This study evaluated, by cross-sectional hardness (CSH), enamel maturation at different depths in sound human teeth at different posteruptive ages (12 per age group): unerupted (molars; control), 2–3 years (premolars), 4–10 years (premolars) and >10 years (molars). Cross-sectional Knoop hardness was measured at 10, 30, 50, 70, 90, 110, 220 and 330 mm depth from the surface. The data were subjected to two-way ANOVA followed by Bonferroni’s pairwise tests (a = 0.05). The CSH significantly increased with posteruptive age, indicating that the time of exposure in the oral cavity might result in deep enamel maturation.
"In Jesus' Name": A Key Resource on the Worldwide Pentecostal Phenomenon & the Oneness, Apostolic, or Jesus' Name Movement
Authors: French Talmadge
Published: December 2009

The review summarizes the implications of David Reed's excellent study of Oneness Pentecostalism as a major treatment of the movement in which the sections regarding its background, history, and theology are equally comprehensive. Reed's work sets the movement, not in the context of its global expansion and impact, but within the context of its historical development amidst an array of Evangelical-Pentecostal tensions. It characterizes the movement as a sect, rather than a cult, and as a worldwide expression of Pentecostalism in its own right. This review, therefore, explores Reed's argumentation in which he explains its historical development as a movement rooted, first and foremost, in pietism, especially Wesleyan, which used Jewish categories, similar to the practice of early Jewish rather than Nicene Christianity. Reed contends that a tendency towards a Jesus-centric 'reductionism' in Evangelicalism shaped the movement and most of its patterns of doctrinal 'imbalances.' The specific setting for this influence is seen as the theology of William Durham, specifically, and the restoration impulses of Pentecostalism, generally.
Improved Global Rainfall Retrieval Using the Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I)
Authors: Vila Daniel , Ferraro Ralph , Semunegus Hilawe
Published: December 2009

Global monthly rainfall estimates have been produced from more than 20 years of measurements from the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program series of Special Sensor Microwave Imager (SSM/I). This is the longest passive microwave dataset available to analyze the seasonal, annual, and interannual rainfall variability on a global scale. The primary algorithm used in this study is an 85-GHz scattering-based algorithm over land, while a combined 85-GHz scattering and 19/37-GHz emission is used over ocean. The land portion of this algorithm is one of the components of the blended Global Precipitation Climatology Project rainfall climatology. Because previous SSM/I processing was performed in real time, only a basic quality control (QC) procedure had been employed to avoid unrealistic values in the input data. A more sophisticated, statistical-based QC procedure on the daily data grids (antenna temperature) was developed to remove unrealistic values not detected in the original database and was employed to reprocess the rainfall product using the current version of the algorithm for the period 1992–2007. Discrepancies associated with the SSM/I-derived monthly rainfall products are characterized through comparisons with various gauge-based and other satellite-derived rainfall estimates. A substantial reduction in biases was observed as a result of this QC scheme. This will yield vastly improved global rainfall datasets.
Determination of Precipitation Return Values in Complex Terrain and Their Evaluation
Authors: Früh Barbara , Feldmann Hendrik , Panitz Hans-Jürgen , Schädler Gerd , Jacob Daniela , Lorenz Philip , Keuler Klaus
Published: December 2009

To determine return values at various return periods for extreme daily precipitation events over complex orography, an appropriate threshold value and distribution function are required. The return values are calculated using the peak-over-threshold approach in which only a reduced sample of precipitation events exceeding a predefined threshold is analyzed. To fit the distribution function to the sample, the L-moment method is used. It is found that the deviation between the fitted return values and the plotting positions of the ranked precipitation events is smaller for the kappa distribution than for the generalized Pareto distribution.

As a second focus, the ability of regional climate models to realistically simulate extreme daily precipitation events is assessed. For this purpose the return values are derived using precipitation events exceeding the 90th percentile of the precipitation time series and a fit of a kappa distribution. The results of climate simulations with two different regional climate models are analyzed for the 30-yr period 1971–2000: the so-called consortium runs performed with the climate version of the Lokal Modell (referred to as the CLM-CR) at 18-km resolution and the Regional Model (REMO)–Umweltbundesamt (UBA) simulations at 10-km resolution. It was found that generally the return values are overestimated by both models. Averaged across the region the overestimation is higher for REMO–UBA compared to CLM-CR.