bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Voltage sensitive phosphoinositide phosphatases of Xenopus: Their tissue distribution and voltage dependence
Authors: Ratzan William J. , Evsikov Alexei V. , Okamura Yasushi , Jaffe Laurinda A.
Published: May 2011

Voltage‐sensitive phosphatases (VSPs) are unique proteins in which membrane potential controls enzyme activity. They are comprised of the voltage sensor domain of an ion channel coupled to a lipid phosphatase specific for phosphoinositides, and for ascidian and zebrafish VSPs, the phosphatase activity has been found to be activated by membrane depolarization. The physiological functions of these proteins are unknown, but their expression in testis and embryos suggests a role in fertilization or development. Here we investigate the expression pattern and voltage dependence of VSPs in two frog species, Xenopus laevis and Xenopus tropicalis, that are well suited for experimental studies of these possible functions. X. laevis has two VSP genes (Xl‐VSP1 and Xl‐VSP2), whereas X. tropicalis has only one gene (Xt‐VSP). The highest expression of these genes was observed in testis, ovary, liver, and kidney. Our results show that while Xl‐VSP2 activates only at positive membrane potentials outside of the physiological range, Xl‐VSP1 and Xt‐VSP phosphatase activity is regulated in the voltage range that regulates sperm–egg fusion at fertilization. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 2740–2746, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mechanisms controlling neurite outgrowth in a pheochromocytoma cell line: The role of TRPC channels
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Chakraborty Saikat , Barbosa Cindy , Brustovetsky Tatiana , Brustovetsky Nickolay , Obukhov Alexander G.
Published: May 2011

Transient Receptor Potential Canonical (TRPC) channels are implicated in modulating neurite outgrowth. The expression pattern of TRPCs changes significantly during brain development, suggesting that fine‐tuning TRPC expression may be important for orchestrating neuritogenesis. To study how alterations in the TRPC expression pattern affect neurite outgrowth, we used nerve growth factor (NGF)‐differentiated rat pheochromocytoma 12 (PC12) cells, a model system for neuritogenesis. In PC12 cells, NGF markedly up‐regulated TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression, but down‐regulated TRPC5 expression while promoting neurite outgrowth. Overexpression of TRPC1 augmented, whereas TRPC5 overexpression decelerated NGF‐induced neurite outgrowth. Conversely, shRNA‐mediated knockdown of TRPC1 decreased, whereas shRNA‐mediated knockdown of TRPC5 increased NGF‐induced neurite extension. Endogenous TRPC1 attenuated the anti‐neuritogenic effect of overexpressed TRPC5 in part by forming the heteromeric TRPC1–TRPC5 channels. Previous reports suggested that TRPC6 may facilitate neurite outgrowth. However, we found that TRPC6 overexpression slowed down neuritogenesis, whereas dominant negative TRPC6 (DN‐TRPC6) facilitated neurite outgrowth in NGF‐differentiated PC12 cells. Consistent with these findings, hyperforin, a neurite outgrowth promoting factor, decreased TRPC6 expression in NGF‐differentiated PC12 cells. Using pharmacological and molecular biological approaches, we determined that NGF up‐regulated TRPC1 and TRPC6 expression via a p75NTR–IKK2‐dependent pathway that did not involve TrkA receptor signaling in PC12 cells. Similarly, NGF up‐regulated TRPC1 and TRPC6 via an IKK2 dependent pathway in primary cultured hippocampal neurons. Thus, our data suggest that a balance of TRPC1, TRPC5, and TRPC6 expression determines neurite extension rate in neural cells, with TRPC6 emerging as an NGF‐dependent “molecular damper” maintaining a submaximal velocity of neurite extension. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 1408–1419, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In ovo feeding of IGF‐1 to ducks influences neonatal skeletal muscle hypertrophy and muscle mass growth upon satellite cell activation
Authors: Liu He‐He , Wang Ji‐Wen , Zhang Rong‐Ping , Chen Xi , Yu Hai‐Yue , Jin Hai‐Bo , Li Liang , Han Chun‐Chun , Xu Feng , Kang Bo , He Hua , Xu Heng‐Yong
Published: May 2011

To investigate reasons for the muscle increase observed when eggs are treated by IGF‐1 and whether or not satellite cell activation is specific to different types of myofibers, duck eggs were administrated with IGF‐1. After injection, during the neonatal stages, the duck breast muscle and leg muscle were isolated for analysis. The muscle weight, muscle fiber diameter (MFD), cross‐sectional area (CSA), the number of myofibers per unit area (MFN) and frequency of satellite cell activation and mitosis at the embryo stage of 27 days (27E) and the postnatal stage of 2 days after hatching (P2D) were determined. In addition, expression of two important myogenic transcription factors MyoD and Myf5 were detected and compared in the two types of muscle tissues. Results indicated that IGF‐1 administration increased the duck body weight, MFD, CSA, MFN, and quantity of activated satellite cells and mitotic nuclei in the two types of muscle tissues. The MyoD and Myf5 expressed at a higher level in IGF‐1‐treated muscle. IGF‐1 stimulated muscle weight growth more in the leg muscle than in the breast muscle. These results indicate that in ovo feeding of IGF‐1 can stimulate duck growth and, especially, lead to increased muscle hypertrophy. These increases appear to be mainly dependent on the activation of satellite cells, some of which proliferate and fuse to the myofiber, enabling increased muscle mass. IGF‐1 can indirectly affect satellite cells by regulating the expression of two important myogenic transcription factors, MyoD and Myf5, which help activate satellite cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 1465–1475, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuronal specific βPix‐b stimulates actin‐dependent processes via the interaction between its PRD and WH1 domain of N‐WASP
Authors: Park Joohyun , Kim Yoonju , Park Zee Yong , Park Dongeun , Chang Sunghoe
Published: May 2011

βPix, a Pak‐interacting nucleotide exchange factor (Cool‐1/p85SPR), is a Cdc42/Rac1‐specific guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) involved in various actin‐related processes. Many previous studies have focused on ubiquitously expressed βPix‐a, while the role of the neuronal‐specific isoform βPix‐b is still unknown, especially whether its role is distinct from or similar to βPix‐a. Here we show that unlike βPix‐a, overexpression of βPix‐b stimulates actin‐dependent comet formation in BHK21 cells. This effect is attributed to the interaction between its proline‐rich domain (PRD) and the WH1 domain of N‐WASP. In addition, we show that overexpression of βPix‐b stimulates actin‐dependent dendritic spine formation in rat hippocampal neurons in culture, a formation that is blocked by co‐expression of the WH1 domain of N‐WASP or the PRD of βPix‐b. Knocking‐down endogenous expression of βPix‐b by shRNA reduced the number of dendritic spines, which were rescued only by PRD‐containing βPix‐b mutants. GEF activity of βPix‐b is also required for these effects. The results show that neuronal‐specific βPix‐b stimulates actin‐dependent processes in cells via the interaction between its PRD and the WH1 domain of N‐WASP. Our results identify N‐WASP as the first protein shown to interact with the PRD of βPix‐b, raising the possibility that, as an N‐WASP WH1‐binding protein, βPix‐b may regulate N‐WASP's activity in cells. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 1476–1484, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Functional anatomy of scent glands in Paranemastoma quadripunctatum (Opiliones, Dyspnoi, Nemastomatidae)
Authors: Schaider Miriam , Komposch Christian , Stabentheiner Edith , Raspotnig Günther
Published: May 2011

The morphological organization and functional anatomy of prosomal defensive (scent) glands in Paranemastoma quadripunctatum, a representative of the dyspnoid harvestmen, was investigated by means of histological semithin sections, software‐based 3D‐reconstruction and scanning electron microscopy. Scent glands comprise large, hollow sacs on either side of the prosoma, each of these opening to the outside via one orifice (ozopore) immediately above coxa I. In contrast to the situation known from laniatorean, cyphophthalmid and some eupnoid Opiliones, ozopores are not exposed but hidden in a depression (atrium), formed by a dorsal integumental fold of the carapace and the dorsal parts of coxae I. Glandular sacs are connected to ozopores via a short duct which is equipped with a specific closing mechanism in its distal part: A layer of modified epidermal cells forms a kind of pad‐like tissue, surrounding the duct like a valve. Several muscles attached to the anterior parts of the glandular reservoir and to the epithelial pad may be associated with ozopore‐opening. The actual mechanism of secretion discharge seems to be highly unusual and may be hypothesized on the basis of corroborating data from behavioral observations, scent gland anatomy and secretion chemistry as follows: Enteric fluid is considered to be directed towards the
ozopores via cuticular grooves in the surface of the coxapophyses of legs I. Then, the fluid is sucked into the anterior part of the scent gland reservoirs by the action of dorsal dilator muscles that widen the reservoir and produce a short‐term negative pressure. After dilution/solution of the naphthoquinone‐rich scent gland contents, a secretion‐loaded fluid is thought to be discharged with the help of transversal compressor muscles. This is the first detailed study on the functional anatomy of scent glands and the mechanisms of secretion discharge in the Dyspnoi. J. Morphol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative and reproducibility study of four tractography algorithms used in clinical routine
Authors: Tensaouti Fatima , Lahlou Ihssan , Clarisse Perrine , Lotterie Jean Albert , Berry Isabelle
Published: May 2011

Purpose:

To evaluate fiber tracking strategy in terms of acquisition schemes in conjunction with four algorithms used in clinical routine, we studied one of the major tracts, anatomically well known, and which should be preserved as much as possible during neurosurgery: the corticospinal tract.

Materials and Methods:

Two identical exams, composed of three DTI acquisition schemes (6, 15, and 32 gradient directions), were performed on 12 healthy subjects during two different sessions. For each subject, intra‐operator, and inter‐exam reproducibility was quantitatively calculated from different fiber tracking algorithms: three deterministic and a probabilistic one. Inter‐exam reproducibility was evaluated comparing fiber tracking results from the repetition of the same acquisition one month apart and variation of the fiber density distribution percentile.

Results:

For each fiber tracking algorithm, the best reproducibility result is obtained in case of 50% of fiber density and for the number of directions equal to 32. The reproducibility is improved using the probabilistic algorithm.

Conclusion:

This study highlights increased reliability of reproducibility results based on the number of directions used during the acquisition. The method of tractography used and the choice of adequate density fiber tract greatly improve the results. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Robust mapping of the myelin water fraction in the presence of noise: Synergic combination of anisotropic diffusion filter and spatially regularized nonnegative least squares algorithm
Authors: Hwang Dosik , Chung Hyunjin , Nam Yoonho , Du Yiping P. , Jang Ung
Published: May 2011

Purpose:

To improve the mapping of myelin water fraction (MWF) despite the presence of measurement noise, and to increase the visibility of fine structures in MWF maps.

Materials and Methods:

An anisotropic diffusion filter (ADF) was effectively combined with a spatially regularized nonnegative least squares algorithm (srNNLS) for robust MWF mapping. Synthetic data simulations were performed to assess the effectiveness of this new method. Experimental measurements of signal decay curves were obtained and MWF maps were estimated using the new method and compared with maps estimated using other methods.

Results:

MWF mapping was substantially improved in both simulations and experimental data when ADF was combined with the srNNLS algorithm. MWF variability decreased with the use of the proposed method, which in turn resulted in increased visibility of small focal lesions and structures in the MWF maps.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates that the benefits of ADF and srNNLS algorithms can be effectively combined in a synergic way for robust mapping of MWF in the presence of noise. Substantial improvements to MWF mapping can be made using the proposed method. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diagnostic value of whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging for bone metastases: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Lian‐Ming , Gu Hai‐Yan , Zheng Jasmine , Xu Xiao , Lin Lin‐Hua , Deng Xia , Zhang Wei , Xu Jian‐Rong
Published: May 2011

Purpose:

To assess the overall diagnostic accuracy of whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging (WB‐MRI) in detecting bone metastases with a meta‐analysis.

Materials and Methods:

The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cancerlit, and Cochrane Library databases were searched from January 1995 to September 2010 for studies evaluating the accuracy of WB‐MRI in detecting bone metastases. Histopathologic analysis and/or close clinical and imaging follow‐up for at least 6 months was assessed. Meta‐analysis methods were used to pool sensitivity and specificity and to construct summary receiver‐operating characteristics.

Results:

A total of 11 studies with 495 patients who fulfilled all of the inclusion criteria were considered for the analysis. No publication bias was found. WB‐MRI had a pooled sensitivity of 0.899 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.845–0.939) and a pooled specificity of 0.918 (95% CI, 0.882–0.946). The subgroup without diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) positive results had higher pooled specificity 0.961 (95% CI, 0.922‐0.984) than the subgroup with DWI (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

WB‐MRI was an accurate, cost‐effective tool in detecting bone metastases. WB‐MRI without DWI may improve the specificity of detecting bone metastases. DWI seems to be a sensitive but rather unspecific modality for the detection of bone metastatic disease. High‐quality prospective studies regarding WB‐MRI in detecting bone metastases still need to be conducted. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interruption of the circulation of an indigenous measles genotype and the introduction of other genotypes after a mass vaccination campaign in the Philippines
Authors: Fuji Naoko , Suzuki Akira , Saito Mariko , Centeno Rex , Galang Hazel , Lupisan Socorro , Olveda Remigio , Oshitan Hitoshi
Published: May 2011

Molecular analysis of measles viruses in the Philippines was conducted from 2000 to 2008. No confirmed measles cases were detected in the surveillance in 2005 after the mass vaccination campaign in 2004. However, a re‐emergence of measles cases occurred in 2007, which was caused by other genotypes and the previous circulating genotype had disappeared. J. Med. Virol. 83:1424–1427, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Symptomatic and asymptomatic infections of rotavirus, norovirus, and adenovirus among hospitalized children in Xi'an, China
Authors: Zhang Shuwan , Chen Tsun‐Hsuan , Wang Juan , Dong Changxin , Pan Jingjing , Moe Christine , Chen Wei , Yang Lihong , Wang Xiaoqin , Tang Helen , Li Xu , Liu Pengbo
Published: May 2011

Rotavirus (RV), norovirus (NoV), and adenovirus (AdV) have been reported as the common viral pathogens of acute gastroenteritis in children. To determine the prevalence of RV, NoV, and AdV infections among hospitalized children with and without symptoms of acute gastroenteritis, fecal specimens, and data on clinical symptoms were collected from 201 children with diarrhea and 53 children without diarrhea admitted to the Xi'an Children's Hospital in Xi'an, China between March 2009 and May 2010. RV, NoV, and AdV were identified in 68.7% (138/201), 20.4% (41/201), and 5.0% (10/201), respectively, of children with diarrhea. These three viruses were also detected in 13.2% (7/53), 35.9% (19/53), and 9.4% (6/53), respectively, of children without diarrhea. Diarrheal children infected with RV alone showed the average severity score of 6.5, statistically significant higher than the average score of 5.3 in children with unidentifiable viruses. GII.3 and GII.4 were the only two NoV genotypes identified, and the GII.4 sequences were genetically close to GII.4 2006b cluster. These findings highlight the importance of NoV as a causative agent of pediatric diarrhea after RV based on the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of NoV infection, and particularly convey information of asymptomatic infections of enteric viruses in young children. J. Med. Virol. 83:1476–1484, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Schwann‐like adult stem cells derived from bone marrow and adipose tissue express γ‐aminobutyric acid type B receptors
Authors: Faroni Alessandro , Mantovani Cristina , Shawcross Susan G. , Motta Marcella , Terenghi Giorgio , Magnaghi Valerio
Published: May 2011

γ‐Aminobutyric acid type B receptors (GABA‐B) are expressed in glial cells of the central and peripheral nervous systems, and recent evidence has shown their importance in modulating physiological parameters of Schwann cell (SC). SC play essential roles in peripheral nerve regeneration, but several drawbacks prevent their use for nerve repair. Adult stem cells from adipose tissue (ASC) or bone marrow (BM‐MSC) can be differentiated into an SC‐like phenotype and used as SC replacements. The aim of this study was to investigate GABA‐B receptor functional expression in differentiated stem cells by assessing the similarity to SC. By means of RT‐PCR and Western blot methodologies, BM‐MSC and ASC were found to express both GABA‐B1 and GABA‐B2 receptor subunits. The expression levels of GABA‐B1b and GABA‐B2 receptors were influenced by SC‐like differentiation, as shown by Western blot studies. GABA‐B receptor stimulation with baclofen reduced the proliferation rate of SC and differentiated ASC (dASC) but not that of dBM‐MSC. In conclusion, both of the subunits that assemble into a functional GABA‐B receptor are present in differentiated stem cells. Furthermore, GABA‐B receptors in dASC are functionally active, regulating a key process such as proliferation. The presence of functional GABA‐B receptors on differentiated stem cells opens new opportunities for a possible pharmacological modulation of their physiology and phenotype. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chronology of the Last Glacial Maximum in the Salzach palaeoglacier area (Eastern Alps)
Authors: Starnberger Reinhard , Rodnight Helena , Spötl Christoph
Published: May 2011

A chronostratigraphy based on luminescence data was established at a key loess profile (Duttendorf) in the northern alpine foreland of Austria. The data help to constrain the timing and duration of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) in the area of one of the largest east Alpine piedmont glaciers, the Salzach palaeoglacier. Climate deterioration and maximum advance of this glacier were coeval with the beginning of the main loess accumulation phase in the glacier forefield at ∼29–30 ka. A late LGM‐outwash gravel layer deposited on top of the loess profile marks the end of the LGM glacier activity at ∼20 ka. The geomorphological setting around the loess profile provides evidence of a major glacier oscillation during the course of the LGM, a phenomenon qualitatively known from other alpine palaeoglaciers but never interpreted in terms of palaeoclimate. A LGM glacier oscillation similar to that of the Salzach palaeoglacier was reported recently from the south Alpine Tagliamento palaeoglacier, suggesting a common forcing. The onset of loess deposition at Duttendorf and the tentatively contemporal advance of the Salzach palaeoglacier reflect, as do other data, the drastic cooling in Europe as a result of Heinrich event 3. The first glacier maximum is not well constrained in the study area but a correlation with the better dated Tagliamento amphitheatre suggests a possible response to Heinrich 2. The second re‐advance occurred synchronously (within dating uncertainties) in both palaeoglaciers forefields (at ∼21 ka) but the forcing mechanism remains unknown. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long‐term outcomes and survival after laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer: Three‐year survival analysis of a single‐center experience in Korea
Authors: Yoo Han Mo , Lee Han Hong , Shim Jung Ho , Jeon Hae Myung , Park Cho Hyun , Kim Jun Gi , Song Kyo Young
Published: May 2011

Background and Objectives

Laparoscopy‐assisted distal gastrectomy (LADG) has been established as an alternative treatment for early gastric cancer (EGC) because of excellent short‐term results. However, only a few reports have considered the long‐term outcomes of LADG. In this study, we investigated the 3‐year outcome and survival of patients who underwent LADG.

Methods

We assessed 182 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma who underwent LADG. The indication for LADG was confined to EGCs (T1N0 or T1N1 cases). The clinicopathological characteristics and long‐term survival data of all patients were analyzed.

Results

The overall morbidity and mortality rates of the patients were 11% and 0%, respectively. An analysis of the final pathological stages of the patients revealed that 160 had stage Ia, 20 had stage Ib, and only 2 had stage II. The median follow‐up period was 44 months (range, 2–73 months), and there were two recurrences. Five patients died of other causes, but no patients died of a gastric cancer recurrence. The 3‐year overall and disease‐specific survival rates were 97.3% and 100%, respectively.

Conclusions

LADG for EGC is acceptable in terms of both short‐ and long‐term outcomes. Thus, LADG can be considered a primary treatment for EGC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011; 104:511–515. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Automated on‐fiber derivatization with headspace SPME‐GC‐MS‐MS for the determination of primary amines in sewage sludge using pressurized hot water extraction
Authors: Llop Anna , Pocurull Eva , Borrull Francesc
Published: May 2011

An automated, environmentally friendly, simple, selective, and sensitive method was developed for the determination of ten primary aliphatic amines in sewage sludge at μg/kg dry weight (d.w.). The procedure involves a pressurized hot water extraction (PHWE) of the analytes from the solid matrix, followed by a fully automated on‐fiber derivatization with 2,3,4,5‐pentafluorobenzaldehyde (PFBAY) and headspace solid‐phase microextraction (HS‐SPME) and subsequent gas chromatography ion‐trap tandem mass spectrometry (GC‐IT‐MS‐MS) analysis. The limits of detection (LODs) of the method were between 0.5 and 45 μg/kg (d.w.) for all compounds except for ethyl‐, isopropyl‐, and amylamine, whose LODs were 70, 109, and 116 μg/kg (d.w.), respectively. The limits of quantification (LOQs) were between 10 and 350 μg/kg (d.w.). Repeatability and intermediate precision, expressed as RSD(%) (n=3), were lower than 18 and 21%, respectively. The method developed enabled to determine primary aliphatic amines in sludge from various urban and industrial sewage treatment plants as well as from a potable treatment plant. Most of the primary aliphatic amines were found in the sewage sludge samples analyzed corresponding to the maximum concentrations to the samples from the urban plant: for instance, isobutylamine and methylamine were found at 7728 and 12 536 μg/kg (d.w.), respectively. Amylamine was detected only in few samples but always at concentrations lower than its LOQ.
The European Timeshare Consumer in the Twenty‐First Century
Authors: Cortés‐Jiménez Isabel , Pratt Steve , Bregoli Ilenia , Cooper Chris
Published: May 2011

This paper outlines the results of the most recent pan‐European survey of timeshare and its owners. The paper begins by placing timeshare in context of the European leisure sector and outlining previous research on timeshare. It then goes on to examine the results of a major survey of timeshare owners and the industry. The results unveil the profile of timeshare owners in Europe, their purchasing behaviour and their future intentions; it also looks into the satisfaction of the timeshare experience. The survey demonstrates that timeshare represents a significant sector of the European accommodation market a d that in general, consumers have a high satisfaction rate with their use of timeshare. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Avoidant coping as a mediator between peritraumatic dissociation and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms
Authors: Pacella Maria L. , Irish Leah , Ostrowski Sarah A. , Sledjeski Eve , Ciesla Jeffrey A. , Fallon William , Spoonster Eileen , Delahanty Douglas L.
Published: May 2011

Peritraumatic dissociation consistently predicts posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Avoidant coping may serve as a mechanism through which peritraumatic dissociation contributes to PTSD symptoms. Path analysis was used to examine whether avoidant coping assessed 6 weeks following a motor vehicle accident mediated the relationship between in‐hospital peritraumatic dissociation and 6‐month (n = 193) and 12‐month (n = 167) chronic PTSD symptoms. Results revealed that, after controlling for age, gender, depression, and 6‐week PTSD symptoms, avoidant coping remained a partial mediator between peritraumatic dissociation and chronic PTSD symptoms 6‐ and 12‐months postaccident. Post‐hoc multigroup analyses suggested that at 6‐months posttrauma, the mediation was significant in women, but not in men. Gender‐specific results were not significant at 12‐months posttrauma. Interventions targeted at reducing avoidant coping in high dissociators may aid in reducing PTSD symptoms.
Liver transplantation for acute intermittent porphyria is complicated by a high rate of hepatic artery thrombosis
Authors: Dowman Joanna K. , Gunson Bridget K. , Mirza Darius F. , Bramhall Simon R. , Badminton Mike N. , Newsome Philip N.
Published: May 2011

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) is an autosomal-dominant condition resulting from a partial deficiency of the ubiquitously expressed enzyme porphobilinogen deaminase. Although its clinical expression is highly variable, a minority of patients suffer recurrent life-threatening neurovisceral attacks despite optimal medical therapy. Because the liver is the major source of excess precursor production, liver transplantation (LT) represents a potentially effective treatment for severely affected patients. Using data from the UK Transplant Registry, we analyzed all transplants performed for AIP in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Between 2002 and 2010, 10 patients underwent LT for AIP. In all cases, the indication for transplantation was recurrent, biochemically proven, medically nonresponsive acute attacks of porphyria resulting in significantly impaired quality of life. Five patients had developed significant neurological morbidities such as paraplegia before transplantation. The median follow-up time was 23.4 months, and there were 2 deaths from multiorgan failure at 98 days and 26 months. Eight recipients were alive for 3.2 to 109 months after transplantation. Complete biochemical and symptomatic resolution was observed in all patients after transplantation. However, there was a high rate of hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT; 4/10), with 1 patient requiring regrafting. The effects of previous neuronal damage such as joint contractures were not improved by transplantation. Thus, impaired quality of life in the surviving patients was usually a result of preoperative complications. Refractory AIP is an excellent indication for LT, and long-term outcomes for carefully selected patients are good. There is, however, an increased incidence of HAT in these patients, and we recommend routine antiplatelet therapy after transplantation. Liver Transpl 18:195–200, 2012. © 2011 AASLD.
Safety of liver transplantation with chagas disease–seropositive donors for seronegative recipients
Authors: Salvador Fernando , Len Oscar , Molina Israel , Sulleiro Elena , Sauleda Silvia , Bilbao Itxarone , Castells Lluis , Pont Teresa , Gavaldà Joan , Pahissa Albert
Published: May 2011

The shortage of organs for transplantation has prompted the investigation of extended criteria donors, such as donors with transmissible infectious diseases. Here we report our recent experience with liver transplantation using organs from donors who were serologically positive for Chagas disease. We also provide a review of the literature and emphasize donor screening and preventive measures.
Iron(III)‐Mediated AGET ATRP of Methyl Methacrylate Using Vitamin C Sodium Salt as a Reducing Agent
Authors: Tao Meixia , Zhang Lifen , Jiang Hongjuan , Zhang Zhengbiao , Zhu Jian , Cheng Zhenping , Zhu Xiulin
Published: May 2011

Vitamin C sodium salt (VC‐Na) is used as a reducing agent for the iron‐mediated AGET ATRP (atom transfer radical polymerization using activators generated by electron transfer) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) with FeCl3/tris‐(3,6‐dioxa‐heptyl) amine (TDA‐1) as a catalyst complex and ethyl 2‐bromoisobutyrate (EBiB) as an initiator in the absence/presence of a limited amount of air. As compared with the reported iron‐mediated AGET ATRP of MMA, the current catalyst system shows a faster polymerization rate. For example, a conversion of 82.3% is obtained in 3.1 h with a molar ratio of [MMA]0/[EBiB]0/[FeCl3.6H2O]0/[TDA‐1]0/[VC‐Na]0 = 500:1:1:3:0.5 at 90 °C. The kinetics of polymerizations of MMA in bulk or anisole demonstrate features of “living” or controlled free‐radical polymerization, such as the number‐average molecular weights increasing linearly with monomer conversion and maintaining narrow molecular weight distributions ($\overline {M} _{w} $/$\overline {M} _{n} $ = 1.20–1.44).

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Optically Triggered Dissociation of Kinetically Stabilized Block Copolymer Vesicles in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Yan Bin , He Jie , Ayotte Patrick , Zhao Yue
Published: May 2011

We demonstrate a strategy for using an optical stimulus to trigger the dissociation of block copolymer (BCP) vesicles in aqueous solution. The BCP, comprising hydrophilic poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) and a block of poly(methacrylic acid) bearing a number of spiropyran methacrylate comonomer units (P(MAA‐co‐SPMA)), was allowed to firstly self‐assemble into large vesicles in aqueous solution at pH = 3 with protonated carboxylic acid groups, and then become kinetically stable at pH = 8 due to the glassy vesicle membrane of P(MAA‐co‐SPMA). Fast dissociation of the vesicles was achieved through a cascade of events triggered by UV‐induced isomerization from neutral spiropyran to charged merocyanine in the membrane.

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Fabrication of Nanofillers into a Granular “Nanosupport” for Ziegler‐Natta Catalysts: Towards Scalable in situ Preparation of Polyolefin Nanocomposites
Authors: Qin Yawei , Wang Ning , Zhou Yong , Huang Yingjuan , Niu Hui , Dong Jin‐Yong
Published: May 2011

This communication reports a strategy for scale‐up of an in situ polymerization technique for polyolefin‐based nanocomposites preparation, taking layered silicate (clay) and multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) as examples of nanofillers. The strategy is realized by transforming the nanofillers into granular “nanosupports” for Ziegler‐Natta catalysts. With a catalyst to polymer replication effect on particle morphology, the in situ prepared nanocomposites are of controlled granular particle morphology. With the polymer particle morphology controlled, the in situ polymerization technique becomes suitable for industrial olefin polymerization processes for mass production of polyolefin nanocomposites.

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Olfactory dysfunction is associated with neuropsychiatric manifestations in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Morley James F. , Weintraub Daniel , Mamikonyan Eugenia , Moberg Paul J. , Siderowf Andrew D. , Duda John E.
Published: May 2011

Hyposmia, psychiatric disorders, and cognitive problems are common nonmotor manifestations in Parkinson's disease, but how they are related remains unclear. We investigated the relationship between olfactory dysfunction and neuropsychiatric manifestations and performed a cross‐sectional study of 248 patients at two movement disorders clinics at academic medical centers. Psychiatric measures were the Geriatric Depression Scale‐15, Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology, State Anxiety Inventory, Apathy Scale, and Parkinson's Psychosis Rating Scale. Cognitive measures were the Mini–Mental State Examination, Hopkins Verbal Learning Test–Revised, Digit Span, Tower of London‐Drexel, and the Stroop Color Word Test. Olfaction was tested with the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test. There was no significant association between olfaction and mood measures, but psychotic symptoms were more common in patients with olfaction scores below the median (30% vs. 12%; P < 0.001). Worse olfaction was associated with poorer memory (Hopkins Verbal Learning Test–Revised delayed recall items: mean [standard deviation], 6.2 [3.2] vs. 8.4 [2.8]; P < 0.001) and executive performance (Tower of London total moves, 52 [38] vs. 34 [21]; P < 0.001). Odor‐identification score was a significant predictor of abnormal performance on these cognitive tests after adjustment for age, sex, and disease characteristics in logistic regression models. The relationship between hyposmia, psychosis, and specific cognitive impairments may reflect the anatomic distribution of Lewy pathology and suggests that olfactory dysfunction could be a biomarker of additional extranigral disease. Future prospective studies are warranted to assess whether hyposmia, a very early feature of Parkinson's disease, might be used to predict the appearance of other common nonmotor symptoms. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Long‐term adaptation of global transcription and metabolism in the liver of high‐fat diet‐fed C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Do Gyeong‐Min , Oh Hea Young , Kwon Eun‐Young , Cho Yun‐young , Shin Su‐kyung , Park Hae‐Jin , Jeon Seon‐Min , Kim Eunjung , Hur Cheol‐Goo , Park Tae‐Sun , Sung Mi‐Kyung , McGregor Robin A. , Choi Myung‐Sook
Published: May 2011

Scope: This study investigated the global transcriptional and metabolic changes occurring at multiple time points over 24 wk in response to a high‐fat diet (HFD).

Methods and results: C57BL/6J mice were fed a HFD or normal diet (ND) over 24 wk. HFD‐fed mice developed early clinical indicators of obesity‐related co‐morbidities including fatty liver, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia and hypercholesterolemia. Time‐course microarray analysis at eight time points over 24 wk identified 332 HFD responsive genes as potential targets to counteract diet‐induced obesity (DIO) and related co‐morbidities. Glucose regulating enzyme activity and gene expression were altered early in the HFD‐fed mice. Fatty acid (FA) and triglyceride (TG) accumulation in combination with inflammatory changes appear to be likely candidates contributing to hepatic insulin resistance. Cidea seemed to be one of representative genes related to these changes.

Conclusion: Global transcriptional and metabolic profiling across multiple time points in liver revealed potential targets for nutritional interventions to reverse DIO. In future, new approaches targeting HFD responsive genes and hepatic metabolism could help ameliorate the deleterious effects of an HFD and DIO‐related complication.
Quality of life after treatment with midurethral sling and concomitant prolapse repair in patients with mixed versus stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Lin Stephanie N. , Klapper Allan S. , Wong Peter , Shalom Dara F. , Winkler Harvey A.
Published: May 2011

Aims

To compare quality of life in patients with mixed urinary incontinence (MUI) to stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after treatment with a retropubic midurethral sling and concomitant prolapse repair.

Methods

Sixty‐three patients met inclusion criteria. Patients completed the short form of the urogenital distress inventory (UDI‐6) questionnaire pre‐ and postoperatively. Concomitant procedures included anterior/posterior colporrhaphy, paravaginal repair, LeForte, vaginal hysterectomy, and sacrospinous ligament fixation.

Results

Preoperatively, those with MUI had significantly higher UDI‐6 scores (59.8 ± 16.6 vs. 42.3 ± 14.5, respectively, P < 0.0001). Postoperatively, there was no difference in UDI‐6 scores (P = 0.87). Subjective cure rate for SUI was the same in patients with MUI versus SUI (73%). Patients with MUI demonstrated a significantly greater improvement in UDI‐6 scores as compared to patients with SUI.

Conclusions

Patients with MUI compared with SUI demonstrated a greater improvement in quality of life after midurethral sling placement and concomitant pelvic organ prolapse repair as assessed by a disease‐specific quality of life questionnaire (UDI‐6). Neurourol. Urodynam. 30: 1507–1511, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Triclosan‐based antibacterial paper reinforced with nano‐montmorillonite: a model nanocomposite for the development of new active packaging
Authors: Soares N. F. F. , Moreira F. K. V. , Fialho T. L. , Melo N. R.
Published: May 2011

In this study, a suitable method is reported to produce reinforced antibacterial paper packaging using the antimicrobial triclosan (TC) and organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT) as “model” compounds. Direct incorporation of TC at a concentration of 1 wt% and OMMT at concentrations of 1, 4, 7, and 10 wt% into papers was performed via coating process, and the resulting materials were characterized by in vitro antimicrobial assays, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, mechanical tests, and water vapor transmission rate determinations. It was demonstrated that the presence of 1% TC in the coated papers exhibited inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. It was also pointed out that increases of approximately 30% in the tensile strength of commercial paper are obtained by using the OMMT at a concentration of 1 wt%. Water barrier property and thermal stability of paper were also enhanced because of the coating process and the incorporation of OMMT. The results from this study demonstrate that OMMT has a great potential to be incorporated into coating formulations to obtain antibacterial‐coated papers with improved properties for various packaging applications. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risk factors for smoking among adolescent survivors of childhood cancer: A report from the childhood cancer survivor study
Authors: Kahalley Lisa S. , Robinson Leslie A. , Tyc Vida L. , Hudson Melissa M. , Leisenring Wendy , Stratton Kayla , Mertens Ann C. , Zeltzer Lonnie , Robison Leslie L. , Hinds Pamela S.
Published: May 2011

Background

Few studies have examined risk factors for smoking among adolescent survivors of childhood cancer. The present study reports on the rate of smoking and identifies factors associated with smoking in a sample of adolescent survivors from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS).

Procedure

Participants included 307 adolescent survivors and 97 healthy siblings (ages 14–20) who completed a self‐report survey of health, quality of life, and health behaviors.

Results

Smoking rates did not differ significantly between survivor and sibling groups (ever smokers: 28% vs. 33%, recent smokers: 10% vs. 9%, respectively). Ever smoking was significantly associated with peer smoking, smokers in the household, binging, suicidal behavior, and no history of CRT. There were significant interactions of peer smoking with gender and CRT for ever smoking and with binging for recent smoking. Recent smoking was more likely for survivors with other household smokers (RR = 2.24, CI = 1.21–4.16), past suicidality (RR = 1.89, CI = 1.00–3.56), and no CRT (RR = 2.40, CI = 1.12–5.17). Among survivors with few smoking friends, ever smoking was more likely for survivors with no CRT (RR = 4.47, CI = 1.43–13.9), and recent smoking was more likely among survivors who binged (RR = 3.37, CI = 1.17–9.71).

Conclusions

Despite the health risks associated with survivorship, nearly one in three adolescent survivors of childhood cancer has smoked. Exposure to other smokers, in particular, appears to increase the likelihood of smoking for some survivors. Providing smoking cessation programs targeted to family members, helping survivors choose non‐smoking friends, and teaching ways to resist smoking influences from peers may be important pathways for smoking prevention with adolescent survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 428–434. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Favorable outcome with conservative treatment for children with low grade brainstem tumors
Authors: Fried Iris , Hawkins Cynthia , Scheinemann Katrin , Tsangaris Elena , Hesselson Leila , Bartels Ute , Huang Annie , Laperriere Normand , Dirks Peter , Bouffet Eric , Tabori Uri
Published: May 2011

Background

Pediatric brainstem tumors (BST) comprise a heterogeneous group of entities. Data regarding treatment options and outcome of BST, specifically brainstem low grade tumors (BSLGT) are limited. In order to better define risk groups and evaluate treatment options for pediatric BST, we performed a comprehensive analysis of all BST patients treated in our hospital during the MRI era.

Procedures

We retrospectively analyzed clinical, imaging, and pathology data at presentation, treatment, and outcome of all BST patients followed at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto over the last 25 years.

Results

Of 1,801 children with brain tumors, 223 (12%) had a brainstem primary location. Tumors without pontine involvement were BSLGT in 98.3%, whereas 75% of tumors involving the pons were high grade (P = 0.0001). Patients with BSLGT had 5‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) of 57 ± 3% and 89 ± 5%, respectively. Upfront observation of tumor residual conferred no survival disadvantage with 5‐year PFS and OS of 57 ± 5% and 93 ± 3%, respectively. In the group of patients requiring further treatment, 5‐year PFS and OS were comparable between chemotherapy and radiotherapy with 53 ± 12% and 93 ± 4% and 66 ± 11% and 83 ± 6%, respectively (P = 0.26 and 0.3, respectively).

Conclusion

BST without pontine involvement are almost invariably BSLGT. Children with BSLGT have an excellent outcome even with careful initial observation. No clear benefit was observed for radiotherapy over chemotherapy when adjuvant treatment was needed. A conservative approach may be warranted for children with non‐pontine brainstem lesions. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 556–560. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Superior outcome of pediatric acute myeloid leukemia patients with orbital and CNS myeloid sarcoma: A report from the Children's Oncology Group
Authors: Johnston Donna L. , Alonzo Todd A. , Gerbing Robert B. , Lange Beverly J. , Woods William G.
Published: May 2011

Background

Extramedullary leukemia (EML) is common in pediatric acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and occurs as leukemia cells within the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or as a solid tumor (myeloid sarcoma—MS). The effect of MS on survival is unknown.

Methods

Patients on CCG protocols 2861, 2891, 2941, and 2961 being treated for AML with intensive‐timing chemotherapy were classified for the presence of EML (CSF leukemia, CNS‐MS, orbital‐MS, or non‐CNS MS). CSF leukemia was classified as CNS3 (>5 WBC in the CSF with blasts) and non‐CSF leukemia as CNS1/2 (<5 WBC in the CSF with or without blasts). Characteristics and outcomes of these patients were compared.

Results

Of the 1,459 total patients, 1,206 (82%) had no EML, 154 (11%) had CSF leukemia, 19 (1%) had CNS‐MS, 23 (2%) had orbital‐MS, and 57 (4%) had non‐CNS MS. The CR rate was significantly higher in patients with orbital‐MS and CNS‐MS than in those with non‐MS and non‐CNS MS (96% and 95% vs. 78% and 78%, P = 0.034). Patients with orbital‐MS and CNS‐MS had significantly higher overall survival than patients with non‐CNS MS (92% and 73% vs. 38%, P < 0.001), CNS3 patients (92% and 73% vs. 51, P < 0.001), and CNS1/2 patients (92% and 73% vs. 50%, P < 0.001). Patients with orbital‐MS had a significantly lower relapse rate.

Conclusion

Patients with MS involving orbital and CNS sites had a significantly better survival than patients with non‐CNS MS, with CSF leukemia, or with no EML. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2012; 58: 519–524. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced surface morphology and transport property of poly(N‐vinylcarbazole)/gold nanocomposite Langmuir–Schaefer films
Authors: Basavaraja C. , Kim Won Jung , Kim Dae Gun , Thin P.X. , Huh Do Sung
Published: May 2011

A composite of poly(N‐vinylcarbazole) (PVK) containing gold nanoparticles (GNPs) was synthesized via simple solid‐state in situ bulk polymerization of N‐vinylcarbazole in the presence of GNPs at a high temperature. Both PVK and PVK–GNP composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and UV–vis spectroscopy. The surface morphology of the composites was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Thermal stability was identified via thermogravimetric analysis. The composites were fabricated into films using the Langmuir–Schaefer process. The enhancement in the characteristics of room temperature I–V, pressure–area isotherms, and photoelectrochemical behaviors was observed in the composite films. Results suggest that a charge transfer process occurs across the hybrid at the interface of the PVK–GNP composites. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers
1H‐NMR Analysis of Terpene Trilactones (TTLs) in Ginkgo biloba: Green Female Leaves Contain the Most TTLs
Authors: Goto Hiroshi , Usuki Toyonobu
Published: May 2011

Introduction

Terpene trilactones (TTLs), unique components of Ginkgo biloba extracts, are believed to play important roles in the biological activity of these materials. The investigation of seasonal and gender‐related variations in the natural content of TTLs in the leaves is a challenging problem that must be addressed in order to establish more efficient extraction/isolation protocols for TTLs.

Objective

The aims of this work were (i) to modify the extraction/isolation protocols of TTLs from G. biloba leaves by means of boiling and filtration procedures, and (ii) to investigate seasonal and gender‐related variations in the TTL content of the leaves via 1H‐NMR analysis.

Methodology

When extracting TTLs from G. biloba leaves, procedures for boiling and filtration were improved in this work. Moreover, quantitative 1H‐NMR analysis using DMF as a reference was performed and correlated to the colour (green/yellow) and gender (male/female) variations in the natural compositions of TTLs in the leaves.

Results

Extraction procedures were modified to include boiling in ethyl acetate and filtration was achieved with celite. 1H‐NMR analysis of TTLs suggested that green female leaves contained the largest amount of TTLs, while no TTLs were present in yellow male leaves.

Conclusion

The present results provide a method for quickly supplying laboratory‐scale quantities of TTLs from natural sources to enable the study of their structure–activity relationships. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.