bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D Receptor in Endometrial Carcinoma and the Differentiation‐Inducing Effect of 1,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D3 on Endometrial Carcinoma Cell Lines
Authors: Yabushita Hiromitsu , Hirata Masato , Noguchi Masayoshi , Nakanishi Masami
Published: August 2010

In view of the potential of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 [1,25(OH)2D3] as a cell‐differentiation‐inducing agent in endometrial cancer, the localization of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) was examined immunohistochemically in 21 endometrial adenocarcinoma specimens, and the effect of 1,25(OH)2D3 on cell growth, as well as the phenotypic changes for cell maturation after treatment with 1,25(OH)2D3, was investigated in 2 endometrial carcinoma cell lines (AMEC‐1, RL95‐2). The VDR was detected in 14 of the 21 endometrial carcinoma specimens. The growth of RL95‐2 cells expressing VDR was inhibited to 44% when cultured with 50 nM 1,25(OH)2D3 for 6 days. In contrast, the growth of AMEC‐1 cells not expressing VDR was completely uninhibited even when cultured with 100 nM 1,25(OH)2D3 for 6 days. The RL95‐2 cells exposed to 50 nM 1,25(OH)2D3 for 6 days had an increasing expression for 52.5 kD or 45 kD cytokeratin polypeptide, and they became columnar with pronounced polarity and formed gland‐like structures when cultured in collagen gel. These results suggest that endometrial adenocarcinoma is a target for 1,25(OH)2D3, which appears to function as a cell‐differentiation‐inducing agent for the treatment of endometrial cancer.
Intravenous Immunoglobulin as Primary Therapy or Adjuvant Therapy to Intrauterine Fetal Blood Transfusion: A New Approach in the Management of Severe Rh‐Immunization
Authors: Deka Dipika , Buckshee Kamal , Kinra Geeta
Published: August 2010

Maternal high dose intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has shown promise in the management of severe Rh‐immunization. Intravenous immunoglobulin, blocks Fc mediated antibody transport across the placenta and blocks destruction of fetal red cells and reduces maternal antibody levels. We have tried this new therapy in 6 patients with severe Rh‐immunization, with high maternal antibody titres and previous hydrops and intrauterine deaths. Intravenous immunoglobulin was given from 13–18 weeks of gestation 3–4 weekly, till intrauterine transfusion (IUT) or delivery. Intensive fetal monitoring was done. No fetal hydrops or deaths occurred in any of the 6 cases. Only 2 cases needed intrauterine transfusion. IVIG delayed the onset of fetal anemia by 8–17 weeks thus deferring the need for IUT. All pregnancies continued till 32–36 weeks and all 6 babies did well in the neonatal period.
Choriocarcinoma in Infant and Mother: A Case Report
Authors: Andreitchouk Alexandre Evgenievich , Takahashi Osamu , Kodama Hideya , Morita Mamoru , Sankawa Takeru , Saito Ken , Enomoto Katsuhiko , Tanaka Toshinobu
Published: August 2010

We present a case of gestational choriocarcinoma that developed in a pregnant woman with metastases to her baby. In this case, severe anemia and hepatomegaly of the baby were noticed after delivery. Despite intensive treatments, the tumor progressed rapidly, and the baby died at the age of 38 days. Accurate diagnosis was made after autopsy. When the baby's mother visited our hospital again at 4 months postpartum, there were widespread multiple metastases to her lungs and liver. We want to emphasize that if a neonate or infant has anemia and/or hepatomegaly, it is necessary to be aware of the possibility of infantile choriocarcinoma with the presence of an occult tumor in the mother and to examine the mother's and infant's hCG levels immediately.
Small‐Cell Carcinoma of the Endometrium: An Immunohistochemical and Ultrastructural Analysis
Authors: Tsujioka Hiroshi , Eguchi F. , Emoto M. , Hachisuga T. , Kawarabayashi T. , Shirakawa K.
Published: August 2010

Small‐cell carcinoma of the endometrium is a rare neoplasm, and its aggressive behavior has been reported. We report a case of small‐cell carcinoma occurring primarily in the endometrium of a 62‐year‐old woman with postmenopausal vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal pain. The excised uterus showed a necrotic polypoid mass and histologically displayed an endometrial small‐cell carcinoma. Immuno‐histochemically, the tumor cells were positive for cytokeratin, the epithelial membrane antigen, neuron‐specific enolase, and chromogranin, but were negative for the leukocyte common antigen and Grimelius stain. Ultrastructural analysis revealed the presence of dense core granules in the cytoplasm of tumor cells. The patient died 2 months after surgery because of aggressive behavior of the tumor. We wish to distinguish small‐cell carcinoma of the endometrium from conventional epithelial tumors of the endometrium, because of the former's distinctive histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural characteristics.
Dietary Patterns amongst Ethnic Chinese Pregnant Women in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Helen O. F. , Fung Hedy , Rogers Michael S.
Published: August 2010

Objective: To provide baseline data on the food consumption pattern of ethnic Chinese women in Hong Kong during pregnancy, in order to identify any risk of nutritional imbalance in this population.

Subjects and Outcome Measures: One hundred and sixty‐seven primagravid ethnic Chinese women attending the antenatal booking clinic at the Prince of Wales Hospital in the New Territories region were recruited. Among the study sample, subjects with less than 7 years of residence in Hong Kong were identified as recent immigrants (n = 25), while the remainder (n = 142) were classified as local. Half of the recent immigrants originated on the Chinese mainland and half from Indonesia. The eating patterns of the entire sample were compared with the intake recommended in the Taiwan Food Guide. Comparisons were made between local and immigrant regarding age, educational standard and consumption of food from each food group.

Results: The median intake of meat and meat substitutes was significantly higher than recommendation. There was no significant difference between actual and recommended intake of fruit but the consumption of dairy products, bread and cereals, and vegetables were all significantly below minimum recommendation.

Conclusion: The unfavorable dietary pattern reflected that many Chinese pregnant women are still not aware of dietary guidelines and the necessity of modifying their dietary practices in order to achieve the optimal maternal nutrition status. This lack of awareness is more prominently exhibited among the Asian Chinese immigrants.
Acute Myocarditis with Eosinophilia Presenting as Asymmetric Septal Hypertrophy during Pregnancy
Authors: Sagesaka Toshiaki , Liang Shan‐Guang , Morioka Hiromitsu , Watanabe Takaya , Kaibara Manabu , Dohba Nobutaka
Published: August 2010

A pregnant female at 24 weeks' gestation developed acute myocarditis with eosinophilia presenting as asymmetric septal hypertrophy. Her clinical course improved with ordinary treatment within a few weeks.
Effect of Oocyte Retrieval from a Small Leading Follicle in Fixed‐Schedule in vitro Fertilization Program
Authors: Nagai Seiichiro , Yasumizu Takehiko , Kasai Tsuyoshi , Hirata Shuji , Mizuno Kaoruko , Kato Junzo
Published: August 2010

Objective: To evaluate the propriety of oocyte retrieval (OR) from a small leading follicle during a fixed‐schedule in vitro fertilization (IVF) program.

Methods: OR was fixed only to take place on Wednesdays. Gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonist treatment was initiated on the first day of the cycle, human menopausal gonadotrophin was given for 7 days starting on the next Monday, and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) was given on the Tuesday before the OR. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to the follicular size observed before the day of hCG administration: Group 1 (141 cycles), with follicles > 16 mm in mean diameter; and Group 2 (38 cycles) with follicles of 10 to 16 mm in mean diameter.

Results: Fertilization rates and the incidence of mature oocytes were higher in Group 1 than in Group 2. However, the mean number of oocytes recovered and pregnancy rates were similar in the 2 groups.

Conclusion: It is worthwhile to retrieve the oocyte from a small leading follicle in a fixed‐schedule IVF program.
Thromboembolism Treated with Low Molecular Weight Heparin in a Pregnancy Complicated by Major Placenta Praevia: A Case Report
Authors: Rowlands Shelley , Lahoud Robert , Hertzberg Mark , Nicholl Michael
Published: August 2010

The concurrent problems of bleeding placenta praevia and thromboembolism present a difficult management problem. We present a case of pulmonary embolism successfully treated with low molecular weight heparin in a woman with a major grade placenta praevia, who required emergency operative delivery.
Elevated Serum Levels of the c‐erbB‐2 Encoded Oncoprotein Fragment in Cases of Pure Preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome
Authors: Meden Harald , Mielke Stephan , Wuttke Wolfgang , Kuhn Walther
Published: August 2010

Objective: During normal human ontogenesis an overexpression of the c‐erbB‐2 encoded oncoprotein p185 (HER2/neu) occurs in the placenta and on fetal epithelial cells. It is accompanied by the increase of a 105 kD fragment (p105) in both maternal serum and cord blood. We examined whether p105 levels in maternal serum! are influenced by destructions of placental tissue, fetal growth disturbances and placental circulation disorders.

Methods: We analysed p105 serum concentrations in patients with abortion (n = 25), ectopic pregnancy (n = 5), intrauterine growth retardation (n = 9), pregnancy induced hypertension (n = 24) and compared them with normal pregnancies of a corresponding gestational age.

Results: Patients with abortions showed normal p105 values. Intrauterine growth retardation was associated with lower p105 levels (p < 0.05) whereas patients with pure preeclampsia (p < 0.001) and HELLP syndrome (p < 0.05) had significantly higher levels.

Conclusion: The elevation of p105 in sera of preeclamptic women could be due to an increased fetomaternal transfer of p105.
Vaginal Delivery in the Grand Multipara following Previous Lower Segment Cesarian Section
Authors: Dyack Colin , Hughes Philip F. , Simbakalia Janet B.
Published: August 2010

Objective: To examine the effect of attempting vaginal birth after cesarian section in the grand multipara with one previous cesarian section scar in the uterus.

Method: Over 5‐year period (1990–1994) mothers with 6 or more previous deliveries and with a previous section scar in the uterus were identified. The outcome in these patients who attempted vaginal birth was reviewed.

Results: Of the 85 patients with the combination of both grand multiparity and a previous cesarian section scar in the uterus, 45 attempted a trial of labor. Twenty‐seven patients (60%) achieved successful uncomplicated vaginal delivery. There was a relatively high incidence of serious complications.

Conclusion: Vaginal birth after cesarian section can be achieved in some grand multiparas with a previous scar in the uterus. There is an increased risk of serious complications. The labor should be very closely supervised and early intervention arranged if there is not smooth rapid progress.
Effects of Transforming Growth Factor‐β on the Production of Parathyroid Hormone‐Related Peptide in a Human Ovarian Cancer Cell Line in vitro
Authors: Yasui Toshiyuki , Uemura Hirokazu , Irahara Minoru , Aono Toshihiro
Published: August 2010

Objective: We examined the effects of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) on intracellular parathyroid hormone‐related peptide (PTHrP) production in a human ovarian cancer cell line (HOC‐21).

Methods: Various concentrations of TGF‐β1 were added to a culture medium, and the numbers of cells were counted. HOC‐21 cells were cultured with or without TGF‐4bT1, and intracellular PTHrP was measured by a radioimmunoassay kit that recognized the carboxy‐terminal protein while counting the number of cells. Furthermore, a 125I‐TGF‐β1 binding assay was carried out. Values were analyzed statistically using an analysis of variance followed by an unpaired t‐test.

Results: Five ng/m/ of TGF‐β1 inhibited the cell growth on Day 1 after plating. The TGF‐β1 significantly (p < 0.05) stimulated intracellular PTHrP production in a time‐dependent manner, also by Day 1. A 125I‐TGF‐β1 binding study revealed that HOC‐21 cells expressed a high affinity for the TGF‐β1 receptor.

Conclusion: The suppression of human ovarian cancer cell proliferation by TGF‐β1 might be involved in the production of PTHrP.
First‐Trimester Detection of Amniotic Sac in Relation to Miscarriage
Authors: Ikegawa Akira
Published: August 2010

Objectives: The purposes of this study were to make clear the amniotic sac detection rate, and to determine whether the detection of an amniotic sac can effectively predict miscarriage in the first trimester.

Study Design: This study included 169 normal pregnancy cases and 169 miscarriage cases. Both groups consisted of cases with a crown‐rump length (CRL) of less than 40 mm.

Results: In normal pregnancies, the amniotic sac was detectable at a CRL of 7 mm, or longer, and its detection rate varied proportionately with the length of the crownrump. In the miscarriage cases, the detection of an amniotic sac was possible at a CRL of less than 7 mm, and it was independent of the length of the crown rump. At a CRL of less than 7 mm, the amniotic sac was detected in 6 miscarriage cases, and the amniotic sac size increased after embryonic death in 19 miscarriage cases. The amniotic sac detection rate was 38% (65 cases) in all miscarriage cases.

Conclusion: Detection of an amniotic sac might be one of the useful signs indicating miscarriage when the CRL is less than 7 mm, at which point detection in normal cases is not yet possible.
Laparoscopic Colposuspension in Women with Previously Failed Anti‐Incontinence Surgery
Authors: Foote Andrew J. , Lam Alan
Published: August 2010

Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of laparoscopic colposuspension after previously failed anti‐incontinence surgery.

Methods: Retrospective review of 10 cases, all with urodynamically proven grade 2 genuine stress incontinence.

Results: All patients were subjectively cured at 3 months or more follow‐up. The mean hospital stay was 2.9 days, the mean time until normal voiding was 1.7 days, and the mean blood loss was 39 ml.

Conclusion: Laparoscopic colposuspension may be useful after failed anti‐incontinence surgery. However, larger numbers are needed with objective longer term follow‐up.
Is There a Need to Treat Hypokalaemia Associated with Intravenous Salbutamol Infusion?
Authors: Chua S. , Razvi K. , Wong M. T. , Tay R. , Arulkumaran S.
Published: August 2010

Objectives: To investigate the evolution of metabolic effects associated with intravenous salbutamol infusion given together with 2 doses of intramuscular steroids in the treatment of preterm labour

Methods: Preterm labour was inhibited with an intravenous infusion of salbutamol m 8 women between 26 and 32+6 weeks with normal singleton pregnancies. Serum glucose concentration, serum potassium, sodium and insulin concentrations, and total white cell count both during the infusion as well as post‐therapy, were plotted against time.

Results: Intravenous salbutamol infusion administered at a rate required to inhibit uterine contractions in preterm labour causes a rise in serum glucose and plasma insulin concentrations. The serum glucose and plasma insulin levels peaked soon after cessation of therapy and took 2–3 hours to come to pre‐infusion levels. The decline in serum potassium concentration was gradual and plateaued after 2 hours. Once the salbutamol infusion was stopped the potassium levels were back to normal by 2 hours. There is an increase in total white cell count within an hour of the initation of therapy.

Conclusion: There is no need to administer insulin for hyperglycaemia and/or potassium for hypokalaemia unless the patient is a known diabetic or when a patient needs immediate surgery.
Diffuse Cystic Change of a Term Placenta with a Normal Newborn
Authors: Uemura Naoko , Kobayashi Fuminori , Korita Daizo , Tanada Shozo , Niwa Hayato , Nanbu Kanako , Konishi Ikuo , Sagawa Norimasa , Mori Takahide
Published: August 2010

We recently encountered a case of term placenta with a diffuse cystic lesion of the villi.

A 19‐year‐old primipara at 36 weeks of gestation underwent cesarean section due to breech presentation with premature rupture of the membranes; she delivered a mature male baby of 2,502 g with an Apgar score of 9/9. The placenta was 940 g in weight and 29 × 20 × 3 cm in size, and macroscopically had multiple cystic lesions (3–8 mm in diameter) that resembled hydatidiform moles. However, histopathological examination revealed that the severe hydropic change was localized in the stem villi but not remarkable in the terminal chorionic villi. Moreover, abnormal proliferation of the trophoblast was not observed. However, the hypertrophic change was observed in the vascular wall of stem villi, in which hyperplasia of smooth muscle‐like cells was present. The urinary hCG levels at 1 month and 2 months after delivery were less than 50 IU/Z. These findings indicate that the multiple cystic lesions of the placenta in this case are essentially different from those of a trophoblastic disease, and that the diffuse cystic lesion of the villi might have been secondary to changes in the local circulation.
Statistical Analysis of Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnancy Complicated with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Zhu Liping , Nakabayashi Masao , Takeda Yoshihiko
Published: August 2010

Objective: To evaluate the outcomes of pregnancies complicated with diabetes mellitus (DM) in the maternal and perinatal center of Tokyo Women's Medical College (TWMC), and compare the results with reports of other countries.

Methods: A retrospective study of 482 cases of DM pregnancies were included over a 13‐year period in a tertiary care hospital in Tokyo. Information were obtained from medical records of both mothers and babies.

Results: The prevalence of pregnancies complicated with DM was 5.1%. Preeclampsia developed in 124 cases at a rate of 25.8%. Incidence of preterm delivery was 16.6%. Caesarean sections were performed in 36.7% patients. There were significant differences of caesarean section rates between diabetic complication group (retinopathy and nephropathy) and non‐complication group (69.5% vs 30.5%, p < 0.0001), and between preterm and term deliveries (60.0% vs 32.1%, p < 0.0001). Maternal backgrounds significantly involved with preterm delivery were DM nephropathy and severe preeclampsia. Babies with heavy for gestational age (HGA) were observed at a rate of 21% in all. There were 3 perinatal deaths (intrauterine fetal deaths, IUFD) with the perinatal mortality rate of 6.1/1,000 births. The incidence of caesarean section and perinatal mortality rate of non‐DM pregnancies in our center during the same study period were 16.3% and 7.7/1,000 births respectively.

Conclusions: The perinatal outcome in our study was better compared to other worldwide reports. With accurate perinatal management, perinatal mortality rate of DM pregnancies in the current study was almost same as that of non‐DM pregnancies in our center. The main factors to promote adverse perinatal outcomes were presence of DM nephropathy and severe preeclampsia.
Enhanced chloroplast transgene expression in a nuclear mutant of Chlamydomonas
Authors: Michelet Laure , Lefebvre‐Legendre Linnka , Burr Sarah E. , Rochaix Jean‐David , Goldschmidt‐Clermont Michel
Published: August 2010

Chloroplast transformation in microalgae offers great promise for the production of proteins of pharmaceutical interest or for the development of novel biofuels. For many applications, high level expression of transgenes is desirable. We have transformed the chloroplast of Chlamydomonas reinhardtii with two genes, acrV and vapA, which encode antigens from the fish pathogen Aeromonas salmonicida. The promoters and 5′ untranslated regions of four chloroplast genes were compared for their ability to drive expression of the bacterial genes. The highest levels of expression were obtained when they were placed under the control of the cis‐acting elements from the psaA‐exon1 gene. The expression of these chimeric genes was further increased when a nuclear mutation that affects a factor involved in psaA splicing was introduced in the genetic background of the chloroplast transformants. Accumulation of both the chimeric mRNAs and the recombinant proteins was dramatically increased, indicating that negative feedback loops limit the expression of chloroplast transgenes. Our results demonstrate the potential of manipulating anterograde signalling to alter negative regulatory feedback loops in the chloroplast and improve transgene expression.
Income Support and Stigma Effects for Young Australians
Authors: Lee Wang‐Sheng , Oguzoglu Umut
Published: August 2010

The central research question addressed in this article is how receipt of income support payments affects the well‐being of youths. Using 1997–2004 panel data from a nationally representative survey of Australian youths, we attempt to estimate the size of the welfare stigma faced by Australian youths, where stigma is defined as the effect of welfare receipt on reported happiness levels. In analysing the determinants of happiness, we argue that it is important to control for dynamics and initial conditions. The latter arguably measures an initial setpoint of happiness which the psychology literature has found strong support for. In contrast to the general findings of the existence of a welfare stigma for adults, based on our results using dynamic panel probit models, our findings suggest that for Australian youths there is a small negative, but not statistically significant, stigma associated with welfare receipt.
Propositions, Properties and Relations: Wittgenstein's “Notes on Logic” and the Tractatus
Authors: Palmer Anthony
Published: August 2010

Frege famously argued that truth is not a property or relation. In the “Notes on Logic” Wittgenstein emphasised the bi‐polarity of propositions which he called their sense. He argued that “propositions by virtue of sense cannot have predicates or relations.” This led to his fundamental thought that the logical constants do not represent predicates or relations. The idea, however, has wider ramifications than that. It is not just that propositions cannot have relations to other propositions but also that they cannot have relations to anything at all. The paper explores the consequences of this insight for the way in which we should read the Tractatus. In the “Notes on Logic” the insight led to Wittgenstein's emphasis on “facts” in any attempt to understand the nature of symbolism. This emphasis is continued in the Tractatus. It is central to his view that propositions are facts which picture facts which prevent us from construing such picturing as a relation between what pictures and what is pictured. It illuminates the importance of context principle with regard to the distinction between showing and saying to which Wittgenstein attached so much importance and it underlies the non‐relational view of psychological propositions which he advocates. Finally, if propositions by virtue of sense cannot have predicates or relations the paradox at the end of a work which consist largely of propositions about propositions becomes intelligible.
Understanding participation in e‐learning in organizations: a large‐scale empirical study of employees
Authors: Garavan Thomas N. , Carbery Ronan , O'Malley Grace , O'Donnell David
Published: August 2010

Much remains unknown in the increasingly important field of e‐learning in organizations. Drawing on a large‐scale survey of employees (N = 557) who had opportunities to participate in voluntary e‐learning activities, the factors influencing participation in e‐learning are explored in this empirical paper. It is hypothesized that key variables derived from the theories of planned behaviour and instructional design – general‐person characteristics, motivation to learn, general and task‐specific self‐efficacy, situational barriers and enablers, and instructional design characteristics – will predict participation in e‐learning. Using structural equation modelling, we find statistical support for the overall theoretical model proposed. We discuss the implications for practice.
Computer‐based training: capitalizing on lessons learned
Authors: Bedwell Wendy L. , Salas Eduardo
Published: August 2010

Computer‐based training (CBT) is a methodology for providing systematic, structured learning; a useful tool when properly designed. CBT has seen a resurgence given the serious games movement, which is at the forefront of integrating primarily entertainment computer‐based games into education and training. This effort represents a multidisciplinary integration and application of lessons learned from human factors, multimedia design, as well as training effectiveness literatures. The authors suggest 10 practical considerations for CBT design and development, designed to challenge traditionally held beliefs about CBT effectiveness based on previous CBT failures of the 1960s/1970s. These practical considerations are critical to the continued evolution of CBT and should be considered during design and development to most effectively capitalize on the advantages that CBT can offer.
Evaluation of the efficacy of a dill extract in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Sohm B. , Cenizo V. , André V. , Zahouani H. , Pailler‐Mattei C. , Vogelgesang B.
Published: August 2010

Synopsis

Lysyl oxidase–like (LOXL) is an extracellular enzyme that catalyses the cross‐linking between microfibrils and tropoelastin (TE), thereby ensuring elastic fibre functionality. With ageing, LOXL expression decreases, thus participating in the loss of skin elasticity. In a previous study, we showed that a dill seed extract [INCI name: Peucedanum graveolens (Dill) extract] could increase LOXL expression in cultured dermal fibroblasts. Besides, we showed a good correlation between the measurements of skin elasticity obtained in vitro and in vivo using a fully automated bio‐tribometer designed to measure the biomechanical properties of soft and complex materials like skin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of the dill extract to improve skin elasticity in vitro and in vivo using different models. Using the bio‐tribometer, we first showed that the lateral elasticity of dermis equivalents (DEs) treated with the dill extract at 1% was significantly increased by +29% (P < 0.01) when compared to untreated DEs. In vivo, skin firmness and elastic recovery measured using cutometry methods were also significantly improved compared to placebo in volunteers treated for 56 days with a formula containing 1% of dill extract. Moreover, the clinical evaluation evidenced significant improvements in ‘skin elasticity’ compared to placebo. A majority of subjects treated with the dill extract also noted significant improvements in skin elasticity, firmness and slackness of the jaw line. Finally, mean wrinkle area and length were also significantly reduced compared to placebo after 84 days as measured using silicone replicas taken from the crow’s feet. In summary, this study showed that the dill extract could improve elasticity of DEs in vitro as well as skin biomechanical properties and appearance in vivo. It also highlights the relevance of using the bio‐tribometer as an exploratory tool for the measurement of skin elasticity in vitro.
A specific isoform of glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor family receptor alpha 1 regulates RhoA expression and glioma cell migration
Authors: Wan Guoqiang , Too Heng‐Phon
Published: August 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 115, 759–770.

Malignant gliomas are highly invasive neuroepithelial tumors where the tendency to invade and migrate away from the primary tumor mass is thought to be a leading cause of tumor recurrence and treatment failures. Autocrine signals produced by secreted factors that signal through receptors on the tumor are known to contribute to the invasiveness. Glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor and GDNF family receptor alpha 1 (GFRα1) are over‐expressed in human gliomas. We have previously reported that human gliomas express high levels of GFRα1b, an alternatively spliced isoform of GFRα1. However, the functional significance of GFRα1b in glioma behaviors is currently unknown. In this study, we have designed isoform‐specific small‐interfering RNA to knockdown the highly homologous GFRα1a or GFRα1b isoform efficiently in malignant C6 glioma cells. Unexpectedly, the knockdown of GFRα1b but not GFRα1a induced cell elongation and inhibited C6 cell migration and invasion in vitro. In addition, GFRα1b was found to regulate the expression of RhoA small GTPase, which was required for migration of C6 cells. The decreases in RhoA expression and cell migration after GFRα1b knockdown were attenuated by small‐interfering RNA ‐resistant GFRα1b but not GFRα1a, further demonstrating the specific role of GFRα1b in glioma migration. Interestingly, the knockdown of NCAM but not receptor tyrosine kinase Ret resulted in the reduction of RhoA expression and C6 cell migration. Taken together, these unanticipated results indicate that GFRα1b is involved in glioma migration through glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor –GFRα1b‐NCAM signaling complex and modulation of RhoA expression.
Dilysine retrieval signal‐containing p24 proteins collaborate in inhibiting γ‐cleavage of amyloid precursor protein
Authors: Hasegawa Hiroshi , Liu Lei , Nishimura Masaki
Published: August 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 115, 771–781.

γ‐Secretase mediates intramembranous γ‐cleavage and ε‐cleavage of β‐amyloid precursor protein (APP) to liberate β‐amyloid peptide (Aβ) and APP intracellular domain respectively from the membrane. Although the regulatory mechanism of γ‐secretase cleavage remains unresolved, a member of the p24 cargo protein family, named p24δ1 or TMP21, has been identified as an activity‐modulating component. The p24 family proteins are divided into four subfamilies (p24α, β, δ and γ). In contrast to p24δ1, p24β1 has reportedly no effect on γ‐cleavage. In this study, we determined whether p24α2, p24γ3 or p24γ4 modulates APP processing. Knockdown of cellular p24α2 induced a significant increase in Aβ generation but not in APP intracellular domain production in cell‐based and cell‐free assays, whereas p24α2 over‐expression suppressed Aβ secretion. By contrast, Aβ secretion was not altered by p24γ3 or p24γ4 knockdown. Endogenous p24α2 co‐immunoprecipitated with core components of the γ‐secretase complex, and the anti‐p24α2 immunoprecipitate exhibited γ‐secretase activity. Mutational disruption of the conserved dilysine ER‐retrieval motifs of p24α2 and p24δ1 perturbed inhibition of γ‐cleavage. Simultaneous knockdown, or co‐over‐expression, of these proteins had no additive or synergistic effect on Aβ generation. Our findings suggest that dilysine ER‐retrieval signal‐containing p24 proteins, p24α2 and p24δ1, bind with γ‐secretase complexes and collaborate in attenuating γ‐cleavage of APP.
Influence of somatostatin and octreotide on liver microcirculation in an experimental mouse model of cirrhosis studied by intravital fluorescence microscopy
Authors: Vanheule Eline , Geerts Anja M. , Reynaert Hendrik , Van Vlierberghe Hans , Geerts Albert , De Vos Martine , Colle Isabelle
Published: August 2010

Background and Aims: Chronic liver damage causes hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation and contraction, leading to intrahepatic microvascular and structural changes. In vitro endothelin‐1 (ET‐1)‐induced contraction of HSCs can be reduced by somatostatin (SST); however, intrahepatic in vivo effects have never been studied.

Methods: Sinusoidal diameter was measured by intravital fluorescence microscopy in carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and control mice before and after an intravenous (IV) bolus and after 0, 5, 10 and 15 min of an IV infusion of saline, 8 μg/kg/h SST or 8 μg/kg/h octreotide.

Results: The baseline sinusoidal diameter in CCl4 mice (3.01±0.05 μm) was significantly smaller than that in controls (4.37±0.06 μm). The sinusoidal diameter increased significantly in both groups after a bolus (27, 16% respectively) and following 5 min of SST IV infusion (28, 14% respectively). The percentage increase was significantly higher in CCl4 mice as compared with controls. This dilatory effect continued for at least 15 min. SST did not influence the mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and portal venous inflow. In none of the groups did octreotide or saline have any influence on sinusoidal diameters, MAP and portal venous inflow.

Conclusions: Sinusoidal diameter in cirrhotic mice is significantly smaller than that in controls. SST causes significant sinusoidal dilation following a bolus and for at least 15 min of IV infusion. Octreotide does not have any influence on liver sinusoids. These results demonstrate for the first time the in vivo dilatory effect of SST on liver sinusoids.
Long‐term outcome of a covered vs. uncovered transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in Budd–Chiari syndrome
Authors: Murad Sarwa Darwish , Luong Trinh K. , Pattynama Peter M. T. , Hansen Bettina E. , Van Buuren Henk R. , Janssen Harry L. A.
Published: August 2010

Background: The clinical outcome of a covered vs. uncovered transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for patients with Budd–Chiari syndrome (BCS) is as yet largely unknown.

Objectives: To compare patency rates of bare and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)‐covered stents, and to investigate clinical outcome using four prognostic indices [Child–Pugh score, Rotterdam BCS index, modified Clichy score and Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD)].

Methods: Consecutive patients with BCS who had undergone TIPS between January 1994 and March 2006 were evaluated in a retrospective review in a single centre.

Results: Twenty‐three TIPS procedures were performed on 16 patients. The primary patency rate at 2 years was 12% using bare and 56% using covered stents (P=0.09). We found marked clinical improvement at 3 months post‐TIPS as determined by a drop in median Child–Pugh score (10–7, P=0.04), Rotterdam BCS index (1.90–0.83, P=0.02) and modified Clichy score (7.77–2.94, P=0.003), but not in MELD (18.91–17.42, P=0.9). Survival at 1 and 3 years post‐TIPS was 80% (95% CI: 59–100%) and 72% (95% CI: 48–96%). Four patients (25%) died and one required liver transplantation.

Conclusions: A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt using PTFE‐covered stents shows better patency rates than bare stents in BCS. Moreover, TIPS leads to an improvement in important prognostic indicators for the survival of patients with BCS.
Radiological diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Saar B. , Kellner‐Weldon F.
Published: August 2010

Treatment of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC) is often complicated by the fact that early HCCs are mostly asymptomatic and the carcinoma is often discovered at an advanced stage. The aim of diagnostic imaging is to detect HCC at an early stage, when curative options are available. In recent years, there have been many efforts to improve early detection of small HCC. The purpose of this article is to describe the pertinent findings of HCCs in non‐invasive, diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound, computed tomography, as well as modern magnetic resonance imaging techniques. Special emphasis is given to the frequently addressed difficulties of differentiation of precancerous lesions and small HCCs. A non‐invasive diagnostic approach is considered with a review of the literature.
RNA interference targeting the platelet‐derived growth factor receptor β subunit ameliorates experimental hepatic fibrosis in rats
Authors: Chen Si‐Wen , Zhang Xing‐Rong , Wang Chong‐Ze , Chen Wei‐Zhong , Xie Wei‐Fen , Chen Yue‐Xiang
Published: August 2010

Background/Aims: Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) is the strongest stimulator of the proliferation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). PDGF receptor β subunit (PDGFR‐β) is acquired on HSCs proliferation induced by PDGF. In this study, we aim to investigate the effect of PDGFR‐β small interference RNA (siRNA) on experimental hepatic fibrosis.

Methods: We constructed a PDGFR‐β siRNA expression plasmid and investigated its effect on the activation of HSCs. Bromodeoxyuridine incorporation was performed to investigate the effect of PDGFR‐β siRNA on HSCs proliferation. A hydrodynamics‐based transfection method was used to deliver PDGFR‐β siRNA to rats with hepatic fibrosis. The distribution of transgenes in the liver was observed by immunofluorescence. The antifibrogenic effect of PDGFR‐β siRNA was investigated pathologically.

Results: Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐β subunit siRNA could significantly downregulate PDGFR‐β expression, suppress HSCs activation, block the mitogen‐activated protein kinase signalling pathway and inhibit HSCs proliferation in vitro. PDGFR‐β siRNA expression plasmid could be delivered into activated HSCs by the hydrodynamics‐based transfection method, and remarkably improve the liver function of the rat model induced by dimethylnitrosamine and bile duct ligation. Furthermore, the progression of fibrosis in the liver was significantly suppressed by PDGFR‐β siRNA in both animal models.

Conclusions: Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐β subunit siRNA may be presented as an effective antifibrogenic gene therapeutic method for hepatic fibrosis.
The Impact of Hydrological Restoration on Benthic Aquatic Invertebrate Communities in a New Zealand Wetland
Authors: Suren Alastair M. , Lambert Paul , Sorrell Brian K.
Published: August 2010

Drainage is a major disturbance affecting wetlands, as drains lower water tables and convert lentic habitats to lotic ones. Consequently, invertebrate communities in drained wetlands are likely to differ from those in unimpacted wetlands. This study investigated the effect of hydrological restoration on invertebrate communities in small drains in a New Zealand fen. Invertebrates were collected over 4 summers from 10 drains within the wetland, one of which was blocked as part of a restoration program. The sampling protocol thus represented a Before‐After Control‐Impact experiment. Invertebrate community composition varied over the 4 years, but variability was greatest in the manipulated drain before and after it was blocked. Relative abundance of the amphipod Paraleptamphopus decreased after blockage, whereas those of the midges Chironomus zelandicus and Tanypodinae increased. Relative abundances of these taxa in control sites were unchanged. Hydraulic restoration thus had a demonstrable impact on the invertebrate communities. The invertebrate community of the blocked drain was compared to that of natural wetlands in undisturbed catchments. Similarity was very low prior to drain blockage, but increased following drain blockage. Invertebrate communities in the restored drain were more similar to those of low pH wetlands than high pH wetlands. Given the goal of restoring the communities to those similar to natural conditions, this was a beneficial result. These results, coupled with studies that showed a decline in the cover of alien pasture grasses around the blocked drain, suggest that drain blockage represents a cost‐effective way of restoring wetland plant and aquatic invertebrate communities, especially where connectivity allows for the natural recruitment of these organisms into restored areas.
Can Carbon and Phosphorous Amendments Increase Native Forbs in a Restoration Process? A Case Study in the Northern Tall‐grass Prairie (U.S.A.)
Authors: Grygiel Carolyn E. , Norland Jack E. , Biondini Mario E.
Published: August 2010

In the northern Great Plains (United States), sites with less than 20% of native species are difficult to restore. We have experimented with a restoration method that shows some promise. It consists of systematically installing simulated small‐scale patches (8.0 m2 in size) over 25% of an old field and then seeding these patches with native species. The working hypothesis is that these patches will generate a constant source of propagules which in time will lead to increases in native species diversity within the surrounding grass matrix. The objective of this paper was to determine whether soil amendments should be used to facilitate the establishment and persistence of native species (primarily forbs) within these patches. We seeded the patches with a mixture of native grass and forb species and applied four soil treatments: P fertilization, C additions, C + P, and a control (no amendments). Results for the first 5 years were as follows: (1) seeded forb richness was mostly unaffected by soil amendments; (2) seeded and nonseeded forb biomass and density were substantially reduced by C additions, whereas they were unaffected or increased under P additions; (3) both seeded and non‐native grass biomass substantially increased with C additions; and (4) there was an inverse relationship between native seeded forbs and non‐native grass biomass. Our conclusions are that: (1) P amendments are a potential tool for enhancing native seeded forb biomass in simulated small‐scale disturbance patches; and (2) C additions, although enhancing seeded grass biomass do not reduce the biomass of non‐native grasses.
Efficacy of ketogenic diet in severe refractory status epilepticus initiating fever induced refractory epileptic encephalopathy in school age children (FIRES)
Authors: Nabbout Rima , Mazzuca Michel , Hubert Philippe , Peudennier Sylviane , Allaire Catherine , Flurin Vincent , Aberastury Marina , Silva Walter , Dulac Olivier
Published: August 2010

Purpose:  Fever induced refractory epileptic encephalopathy in school age children (FIRES) is a devastating condition initiated by prolonged perisylvian refractory status epilepticus (SE) triggered by fever of unknown cause. SE may last more than 1 month, and this condition may evolve into pharmacoresistant epilepsy associated with severe cognitive impairment. We aimed to report the effect of ketogenic diet (KD) in this condition.

Methods:  Over the last 12 years we collected data of nine patients with FIRES who received a 4:1 ratio of fat to combined protein and carbohydrate KD. They presented with SE refractory to conventional antiepileptic treatment.

Results:  In seven patients, KD was efficacious within 2–4 days (mean 2 days) following the onset of ketonuria and 4–6 days (mean 4.8 days) following the onset of the diet. In one responder, early disruption of the diet was followed by relapse of intractable SE, and the patient died. Epilepsy affected the other six responders within a few months.

Discussion:  KD may be an alternative therapy for refractory SE in FIRES and might be proposed in other types of refractory SE in childhood.
Skating on thin ice: rule changes and team strategies in the NHL
Authors: Banerjee Anurag N. , Swinnen Johan F. M. , Weersink Alfons
Published: August 2010

Abstract.  In an effort to stimulate a more exciting and entertaining style of play, the National Hockey Association (NHL) changed the rewards associated with the results of overtime games. Under the new rules, teams tied at the end of regulation both receive a single point, regardless of the outcome in overtime. A team scoring in the sudden‐death 5‐minute overtime period would earn an additional point. Prior to the rule change in the 1999–2000 season, the team losing in overtime would receive no points while the winning team earned 2 points. This paper presents a theoretical model to explain the effect of the rule change on the strategy of play during both the overtime period and the regulation time game. The results suggest that under the new overtime, format equally powerful teams will play more offensively in overtime resulting in more games decided by a sudden‐death goal. The results also suggest that while increasing the likelihood of attacking in overtime, the rule change would have a perverse effect on the style of play during regulation by causing them to play conservatively for the tie. Empirical data confirm the theoretical results. The paper also shows that increasing the rewards to a win in regulation time would prevent teams from playing defensively during regular time.
Heterogeneous ideas production and endogenous growth: an empirical investigation
Authors: Luintel Kul B. , Khan Mosahid
Published: August 2010

AbstractWe examine the dynamics of ideas production and knowledge‐productivity relationship in a panel of 19 OECD countries. A new data set of triadic patents is used. We rigorously address the issues of cross‐country heterogeneity and endogeneity. Domestic and foreign ideas stocks exert positive but heterogeneous effects on ideas production. We find evidence of duplicate R&D but little support for endogenous growth. Countries with low domestic ideas bases could considerably improve productivity through ideas accumulation; however, this effect is modest for countries with sizeable ideas bases. An implication is that country‐specific R&D policy appears potentially more effective than the one‐size‐fits‐all approach.
Hovering sunbirds in the Old World: occasional behaviour or evolutionary trend?
Authors: Janeček Štěpán , Patáčová Eliška , Bartoš Michael , Padyšáková Eliška , Spitzer Lukáš , Tropek Robert
Published: August 2010

The nectarivory of sunbirds in the Old World and hummingbirds in the New World evolved independently. While both groups are specialised in their feeding apparatuses, hummingbirds are moreover famous for their adaptations to sustained hovering flight. Recently, an example of a pollination system of the invasive plant Nicotiana glauca has been used to show that less adapted sunbirds also are frequently able to hover. Nevertheless, the question has remained why plants adapted to bird hovering pollination do not occur outside the New World. In this paper we show that the long‐peduncle Cameroonian Impatiens sakeriana is not capable of autonomous selfing and can be pollinated only by two often hovering sunbirds, the Cameroon sunbird Cyanomitra oritis and the northern double‐collared sunbird Cinnyris reichenowi. Our study revealed that this plant is highly specialised for pollination by C. oritis. Cinnyris reichenowi hovers less frequently and often thieves nectar by piercing the flower spur when perching. This study shows that pollination systems occurring in the Old World follow similar evolutionary trends as systems including hovering hummingbirds in the New World.
Central and peripheral fatigue kinetics during exhaustive constant‐load cycling
Authors: Decorte N. , Lafaix P. A. , Millet G. Y. , Wuyam B. , Verges S.
Published: August 2010

The kinetics of central and peripheral fatigue development during an intensive constant‐load cycling exercise was evaluated to better understand the mechanisms of task failure. Thirteen males cycled to exhaustion at 80% of maximal power output in intermittent bouts of 6 min of exercise with 4‐min break between bouts to assess quadriceps fatigue with maximal voluntary contractions and single (1 Hz), paired (10 and 100 Hz) potentiated and interpolated magnetic stimulations of the femoral nerve (TwQ). Surface electromyographic signals (EMG) of the quadriceps muscles were recorded during stimulations and cycling. Total cycling duration (TCD) was 27 min 38 s±7 min 48 s. The mechanical response evoked by magnetic stimulation decreased mostly during the first half of TCD (TwQ1 Hz reduction: −34.4±12.2% at 40% TCD and −44.8±9.2% at exhaustion; P<0.001), while a reduction in maximum voluntary activation was present toward the end of exercise only (−5.4±4.8% and −6.4±5.6% at 80% TCD and exhaustion, respectively; P<0.01). The increase in quadriceps EMG during cycling was significantly correlated to the TwQ reduction for the rectus femoris (r2=0.20 at 1 Hz, r2=0.47 at 100 Hz, all P≤0.001). We conclude that peripheral fatigue develops early during constant‐load intense cycling and is compensated by additional motor drive, while central fatigue appears to be associated with task failure.