bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D3 correlates inversely with systemic dendritic cell numbers and bone erosion in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and allergic fungal rhinosinusitis
Authors: Mulligan J K , Bleier B S , O'Connell B , Mulligan R M , Wagner C , Schlosser R J
Published: March 2011

Vitamin D3 (VD3) is a steroid hormone that regulates bone health and numerous aspects of immune function and may play a role in respiratory health. We hypothesized that T helper type 2 (Th2) disorders, chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) and allergic fungal rhinosinusitis (AFRS) would have VD3 deficiencies, resulting in increased mature dendritic cells (DCs) and bone erosion. We conducted a retrospective study examining VD3 levels in patients with AFRS (n = 14), CRSwNP (n = 9), chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps (CRSsNP) (n = 20) and cerebrospinal fluid leak repair (non-diseased controls) (n = 14) at time of surgery. Circulating immune cell levels were determined by immunostaining and flow cytometric analysis. Plasma VD3 and immune regulatory factors (granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor and prostaglandin E2) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. It was observed that CRSwNP and AFRS demonstrated increased circulating DCs, while chronic rhinosinusitis without nasal polyps displayed increased circulating macrophages. CRSwNP and AFRS were to found to have insufficient levels of VD3 which correlated inversely with circulating numbers of mature DCs, DC regulatory factors and bone erosion. CRSsNP displayed no change in circulating DC numbers or VD3 status compared to control, but did display increased numbers of circulating macrophages that was independent of VD3 status. Lastly, VD3 deficiency was associated with more severe bone erosion. Taken together, these results suggest support a role for VD3 as a key player in the immunopathology of CRSwNP and AFRS.
Follicular dendritic cells in follicular lymphoma and types of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma show reduced expression of CD23, CD35 and CD54 but no association with clinical outcome
Authors: Jin Mi Kyung , Hoster Eva , Dreyling Martin , Unterhalt Michael , Hiddemann Wolfgang , Klapper Wolfram
Published: March 2011

Jin M K, Hoster E, Dreyling M, Unterhalt M, Hiddemann W & Klapper W (2011) Histopathology 58, 586–592 Follicular dendritic cells in follicular lymphoma and types of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma show reduced expression of CD23, CD35 and CD54 but no association with clinical outcome

Aims:  Follicular dendritic cells (FDC) are specialized antigen‐presenting cells found exclusively in the germinal centre (GC), which can be detected in B cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) as reactive bystander cells. Recently, gene expression profiling has revealed that FDC networks might be associated with clinical outcome in follicular lymphoma. The aim was to characterize FDC in NHL and to evaluate a possible association with outcome in follicular lymphoma.

Methods and results:  The extent and immunophenotype of FDC was determined semi‐quantitatively in reactive GC and NHL (follicular lymphoma, angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma, mantle cell lymphoma) using fluorescence double staining and digital image analysis. In all NHL tested CD23 and CD35 and CD54 were expressed at relatively low levels on FDC, comparable to FDC found in the dark zone of the GC. However, the extent of FDC networks did not correlate with the clinical outcome of 102 patients with follicular lymphomas treated within a prospectively randomized trial.

Conclusions:  FDC found in different types of NHL show quantitatively reduced expression of several proteins, suggesting that there are functional differences between FDC in normal GC and NHL. The extent of the FDC networks in follicular lymphoma is not useful as a prognostic marker.
Prosthetic outcome of cement‐retained implant‐supported fixed dental restorations: a systematic review
Authors: CHAAR M. S. , ATT W. , STRUB J. R.
Published: March 2011

Summary  The aim of the article is to assess the current literature in terms of the prosthetic outcome of cement‐retained implant‐supported fixed restorations, as well as to determine the type of cement that can be recommended for clinical application. A review of the literature published up to May 2010 was conducted to identify clinical studies about cement‐retained implant‐supported fixed restorations. The search strategy applied was a combination of MeSH terms and free text words, including the following keywords: implants, implant‐supported fixed dental prostheses (FDPs), bridges, implant‐supported single crowns (SCs), cement‐retained, cement fixation, cement, cementation, cement failure, retention, and loss of retention, technical complications, mechanical complications, prosthetic complication, retrievability and maintenance. Thirty‐two studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies were divided into two categories: 15 short‐term clinical studies with an observation period of less than 5 years, and 17 long‐term clinical studies with an observation period of 5 years and more. The most common technical complications of cement‐retained implant‐supported fixed restorations were loss of retention, chipping and abutment screw loosening. The results of the current review revealed no guidelines about cement or cementation procedures. It may be stated that despite the questionable retrievability of cement‐retained implant‐supported fixed restorations, this treatment modality is a reliable and effective option, especially for implant‐supported SCs and short‐span FDPs. The literature does not provide accurate information about the clinical outcome of cement‐retained implant‐supported fixed restorations nor about the ideal type of cement that facilitates stability and maintains retrievability. Standardised randomised clinical trials will provide valuable information to this issue.
The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers in extremely low gestational age newborns: individual items associated with motor, cognitive, vision and hearing limitations
Authors: Luyster Rhiannon J. , Kuban Karl C. K. , O'Shea T. Michael , Paneth Nigel , Allred Elizabeth N. , Leviton Alan ,   for ELGAN Study investigators
Published: March 2011

Luyster RJ, Kuban KCK, O'Shea TM, Paneth N, Allred EN, Leviton A for ELGAN Study investigators. The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers in extremely low gestational age newborns: Individual items associated with motor, cognitive, vision and hearing limitations. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology 2011; 25: 366–376.

The Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M‐CHAT) has yielded elevated rates of screening failure for children born preterm or with low birthweight. We extended these findings with a detailed examination of M‐CHAT items in a large sample of children born at extremely low gestational age. The sample was grouped according to children's current limitations and degree of impairment. The aim was to better understand how disabilities might influence M‐CHAT scores.

Fourteen participating institutions of the Extremely Low Gestational Age Newborns (ELGAN) Study prospectively collected information about 1086 infants who were born before the 28th week of gestation and had an assessment at age 24‐months. The 24‐month visit included a neurological assessment, the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Second edition (BSID‐II), M‐CHAT and a medical history form. Outcome measures included the distribution of failed M‐CHAT items among groups classified according to cerebral palsy diagnosis, gross motor function, BSID‐II scores and vision or hearing impairments.

M‐CHAT items were failed more frequently by children with concurrently identified impairments (motor, cognitive, vision and hearing). In addition, the frequency of item failure increased with the severity of impairment. The failed M‐CHAT items were often, but not consistently, related to children's specific impairments. Importantly, four of the six M‐CHAT ‘critical items’ were commonly affected by presence and severity of concurrent impairments.

The strong association between impaired sensory or motor function and M‐CHAT results among extremely low gestational age children suggests that such impairments might give rise to false positive M‐CHAT screening.
Discordant time trends in maternal body size and offspring birthweight of term deliveries in France between 1972 and 2003: data from the French National Perinatal Surveys
Authors: Diouf Ibrahima , Charles Marie Aline , Blondel Beatrice , Heude Barbara , Kaminski Monique
Published: March 2011

Diouf I, Charles MA, Blondel B, Heude B, Kaminski M. Discordant time trends in maternal body size and offspring birthweight of term deliveries in France between 1972 and 2003: data from the French National Perinatal Surveys. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology 2011; 25: 210–217.

We investigated time trends in maternal weight before and during pregnancy and in infant birthweight in France, from 1972 to 2003, using data on singleton live term births from the representative National Perinatal Surveys of 1972, 1981, 1995, 1998 and 2003 (n = 8 664, 4 494, 11 445, 12 006, 12 692, respectively). Mothers were interviewed a few days after delivery and data on delivery and the newborn were extracted from hospital records. Maternal prepregnancy weight, height, body mass index and pregnancy weight gain all increased from 1972 to 2003; however, birthweight did not show a parallel trend. After taking gestational age, maternal age, parity, country of origin, newborn gender and maternal smoking during pregnancy into account, mean birthweight increased between 1972 and 1995 but decreased thereafter and, consistently, there was an increase in small‐for‐gestational age (SGA) and a decrease in large‐for‐gestational age newborns. Further adjustment for induced delivery, an indicator of obstetric practice, did not change the results. A similar variation has been observed very recently in the US and in Germany. Further research is needed to identify the factors responsible for these discordant changes and especially the factors responsible for the recent increase in SGA since this has been shown to be associated with poorer health in later life.
Post‐mating enhancement of fecundity in female Lygus hesperus
Authors: BRENT COLIN S. , FASNACHT MATTHEW P. , JUDD TIMOTHY M.
Published: March 2011

Although mated females of the western tarnished plant bug Lygus hesperus Knight are known to produce more eggs than virgins, the nature of the inducing stimuli and the specific changes occurring in the female require additional elucidation. Compared with virgin females isolated from males, those exposed to male precopulatory behaviours produce similar numbers of eggs, whereas inseminated females produce 50% more during the observation period. Although the quantity of seminal fluids received by a female does not influence egg number, mating twice within a 10‐day span causes a 16% increase in fecundity, on average. Females mating more than twice during the same period do not exhibit additional increases in egg number. Because virgin females contain more chorionated eggs than are laid, mating appears to enhance the rate of oviposition. However, to achieve a sustained increase in fecundity, an augmented rate of oocyte maturation would also be required. Male‐derived spermatophores lack substantive quantities of nutrients that might otherwise have enhanced female fecundity. The total amounts of carbohydrate, protein and lipid, as well as eight essential minerals transferred by the male, are insufficient for producing even a single egg, and the female has already produced a large number of chorionated oocytes before she mates. Collectively, the data suggest that seminal fluid contains one or more activational molecules, such as a peptide, which triggers an increase in egg deposition. A prolonged increase in oviposition rate may be achieved through multiple matings to ensure a supply of sperm or to offset the degradation of the putative activational factor.
Egg dumping by predatory insects
Authors: FERRER AURELIE , CORBANI AUDE C. , DIXON ANTHONY F. G. , HEMPTINNE JEAN‐LOUIS
Published: March 2011

Synovigenic insects resorb oocytes when food is scarce and mature oocytes when food is plentiful. These two antagonistic processes allow an optimal allocation of resources to reproduction and somatic functions. Unlike hymenopteran parasitoids, ladybirds cannot resorb mature oocytes present in the oviducts. Is the energy contained in these oocytes lost or is there a mechanism for recovering it when needed? Females of two species of ladybird beetlesAdalia bipunctata(L.) andAdalia decempunctata(L.) that are starved for >24 h lay single infertile eggs, which they immediately eat, and these eggs comprise the mature oocytes in the oviducts at the onset of starvation. This behaviour has some similarities to egg dumping reported in herbivorous insects and is part, in ladybird beetles, of a process to retrieve energy invested in reproduction. Such behaviour may exist in other predatory synovigenic insects species that do not invest in maternal care.
Molecular and genetic analyses of Tic20 homologues in Arabidopsis thaliana chloroplasts
Authors: Kasmati Ali Reza , Töpel Mats , Patel Ramesh , Murtaza Ghulam , Jarvis Paul
Published: March 2011

The Tic20 protein was identified in pea (Pisum sativum) as a component of the chloroplast protein import apparatus. In Arabidopsis, there are four Tic20 homologues, termed atTic20‐I, atTic20‐IV, atTic20‐II and atTic20‐V, all with predicted topological similarity to the pea protein (psTic20). Analysis of Tic20 sequences from many species indicated that they are phylogenetically unrelated to mitochondrial Tim17‐22‐23 proteins, and that they form two evolutionarily conserved subgroups [characterized by psTic20/atTic20‐I/IV (Group 1) and atTic20‐II/V (Group 2)]. Like psTic20, all four Arabidopsis proteins have a predicted transit peptide consistent with targeting to the inner envelope. Envelope localization of each one was confirmed by analysis of YFP fusions. RT‐PCR and microarray data revealed that the four genes are expressed throughout development. To assess the functional significance of the genes, T‐DNA mutants were identified. Homozygous tic20‐I plants had an albino phenotype that correlated with abnormal chloroplast development and reduced levels of chloroplast proteins. However, knockouts for the other three genes were indistinguishable from the wild type. To test for redundancy, double and triple mutants were studied; apart from those involving tic20‐I, none was distinguishable from the wild type. The tic20‐I tic20‐II and tic20‐I tic20‐V double mutants were albino, like the corresponding tic20‐I parent. In contrast, tic20‐I tic20‐IV double homozygotes could not be identified, due to gametophytic and embryonic lethality. Redundancy between atTic20‐I and atTic20‐IV was confirmed by complementation analysis. Thus, atTic20‐I and atTic20‐IV are the major functional Tic20 isoforms in Arabidopsis, with partially overlapping roles. While the Group 2 proteins have been conserved over approximately 1.2 billion (1.2 × 109) years, they are not essential for normal development.
A critical role of autophagy in plant resistance to necrotrophic fungal pathogens
Authors: Lai Zhibing , Wang Fei , Zheng Zuyu , Fan Baofang , Chen Zhixiang
Published: March 2011

Autophagy is a pathway for degradation of cytoplasmic components. In plants, autophagy plays an important role in nutrient recycling during nitrogen or carbon starvation, and in responses to abiotic stress. Autophagy also regulates age‐ and immunity‐related programmed cell death, which is important in plant defense against biotrophic pathogens. Here we show that autophagy plays a critical role in plant resistance to necrotrophic pathogens. ATG18a, a critical autophagy protein in Arabidopsis, interacts with WRKY33, a transcription factor that is required for resistance to necrotrophic pathogens. Expression of autophagy genes and formation of autophagosomes are induced in Arabidopsis by the necrotrophic fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea. Induction of ATG18a and autophagy by B. cinerea was compromised in the wrky33 mutant, which is highly susceptible to necrotrophic pathogens. Arabidopsis mutants defective in autophagy exhibit enhanced susceptibility to the necrotrophic fungal pathogens B. cinerea and Alternaria brassicicola based on increased pathogen growth in the mutants. The hypersusceptibility of the autophagy mutants was associated with reduced expression of the jasmonate‐regulated PFD1.2 gene, accelerated development of senescence‐like chlorotic symptoms, and increased protein degradation in infected plant tissues. These results strongly suggest that autophagy cooperates with jasmonate‐ and WRKY33‐mediated signaling pathways in the regulation of plant defense responses to necrotrophic pathogens.
Arabidopsis metacaspase 2d is a positive mediator of cell death induced during biotic and abiotic stresses
Authors: Watanabe Naohide , Lam Eric
Published: March 2011

Cysteine proteases such as caspases play important roles in programmed cell death (PCD) of metazoans. Plant metacaspases (MCPs), a family of cysteine proteases structurally related to caspases, have been hypothesized to be ancestors of metazoan caspases, despite their different substrate specificity. Arabidopsis thaliana contains six type II MCP genes (AtMCP2a–f). Whether and how these individual members are involved in controlling PCD in plants remains largely unknown. Here we investigated the function and regulation of AtMCP2d, the predominant and constitutively expressed member of type II MCPs, in stress‐inducible PCD. Two AtMCP2d mutants (mcp2d‐1 and mcp2d‐3) exhibited reduced sensitivity to PCD‐inducing mycotoxin fumonisin B1 as well as oxidative stress inducers, whereas AtMCP2d over‐expressors were more sensitive to these agents, and exhibited accelerated cell‐death progression. We found that AtMCP2d exclusively localizes to the cytosol, and its accumulation and self‐processing patterns were age‐dependent in leaves. Importantly, active proteolytic processing of AtMCP2d proteins dependent on its catalytic activity was observed in mature leaves during mycotoxin‐induced cell death. We also found that mcp2d‐1 leaves exhibited reduced cell death in response to Pseudomonas syringae carrying avirulent gene avrRpt2, and that self‐processing of AtMCP2d was also detected in wild‐type leaves in response to this pathogen. Furthermore, increases in processed AtMCP2d proteins were found to correlate with conditional cell‐death induction in two lesion‐mimic mutants (cpr22 and ssi4) that exhibit spontaneous cell‐death phenotypes. Taken together, our data strongly suggest that AtMCP2d plays a positive regulatory role in biotic and abiotic stress‐induced PCD.
Farnesol kinase is involved in farnesol metabolism, ABA signaling and flower development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Fitzpatrick A. Heather , Bhandari Jayaram , Crowell Dring N.
Published: March 2011

Farnesol, which is toxic to plant cells at high concentrations, is sequentially phosphorylated to farnesyl phosphate and farnesyl diphosphate. However, the genes responsible for the sequential phosphorylation of farnesol have not been identified and the physiological role of farnesol phosphorylation has not been fully elucidated. To address these questions, we confirmed the presence of farnesol kinase activity in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) membranes and identified the corresponding gene (At5g58560, FOLK). Heterologous expression in recombinant yeast cells established farnesol as the preferred substrate of the FOLK‐encoded kinase. Moreover, loss‐of‐function mutations in the FOLK gene abolished farnesol kinase activity, caused an abscisic acid‐hypersensitive phenotype and promoted the development of supernumerary carpels under water‐stress conditions. In wild‐type plants, exogenous abscisic acid repressed FOLK gene expression. These observations demonstrate a role for farnesol kinase in negative regulation of abscisic acid signaling, and provide molecular evidence for a link between farnesol metabolism, abiotic stress signaling and flower development.
The basic helix‐loop‐helix transcription factor CrMYC2 controls the jasmonate‐responsive expression of the ORCA genes that regulate alkaloid biosynthesis in Catharanthus roseus
Authors: Zhang Hongtao , Hedhili Sabah , Montiel Grégory , Zhang Yanxia , Chatel Guillaume , Pré Martial , Gantet Pascal , Memelink Johan
Published: March 2011

Jasmonates are plant signalling molecules that play key roles in defence against insects and certain pathogens, among others by controlling the biosynthesis of protective secondary metabolites. In Catharanthus roseus, the AP2/ERF‐domain transcription factor ORCA3 controls the jasmonate‐responsive expression of several genes encoding enzymes involved in terpenoid indole alkaloid biosynthesis. ORCA3 gene expression is itself induced by jasmonate. The ORCA3 promoter contains an autonomous jasmonate‐responsive element (JRE) composed of a quantitative sequence responsible for the high level of expression and a qualitative sequence that acts as an on/off switch in response to methyl‐jasmonate (MeJA). Here, we identify the basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) transcription factor CrMYC2 as the major activator of MeJA‐responsive ORCA3 gene expression. The CrMYC2 gene is an immediate‐early jasmonate‐responsive gene. CrMYC2 binds to the qualitative sequence in the ORCA3 JRE in vitro, and transactivates reporter gene expression via this sequence in transient assays. Knock‐down of the CrMYC2 expression level via RNA interference caused a strong reduction in the level of MeJA‐responsive ORCA3 mRNA accumulation. In addition, MeJA‐responsive expression of the related transcription factor gene ORCA2 was significantly reduced. Our results show that MeJA‐responsive expression of alkaloid biosynthesis genes in C. roseus is controlled by a transcription factor cascade consisting of the bHLH protein CrMYC2 regulating ORCA gene expression, and the AP2/ERF‐domain transcription factors ORCA2 and ORCA3, which in turn regulate a subset of alkaloid biosynthesis genes.
Where would I be without ivermectin? Capturing the benefits of community‐directed treatment with ivermectin in Africa
Authors: Okeibunor Joseph C. , Amuyunzu‐Nyamongo Mary , Onyeneho Nkechi G. , Tchounkeu Yolande F. L. , Manianga Cele , Kabali Asaph T. , Leak Stephen
Published: March 2011

Objectives  To document peoples’ perceptions of the benefits of taking ivermectin, as an important predictor of sustained compliance with long‐term ivermectin treatment, and to identify the socio‐demographic correlates of perceived benefits of ivermectin treatment.

Methods  Multisite study in Cameroon, DRC, Nigeria and Uganda. A structured questionnaire was administered to 1600 persons randomly selected from household treatment records. Community leaders, community‐directed drug distributors (CDDs) and health workers were interviewed using in‐depth interview guides, while focus group discussions (FGDs) were held with community members to capture factors that reflected their perception of benefits of community‐directed treatment with ivermectin (CDTI). Case histories of persons with special experiences with onchocerciasis were collected.

Results  In this study, 84.7% of respondents indicated that ivermectin treatment has many benefits. The social benefits of CDTI included improved ability to work, peer acceptance and improved school attendance. Other individual benefits included self‐respect/esteem, election to political office and improved relationship in the homes. The health benefits included improved skin texture and less ill health. Important demographic factors that influenced perception of the benefits of taking ivermectin, include marital status (P = 0.012), age (P = 0.029) and length of stay in onchocerciasis‐endemic communities (P < 0.001). Another factor was individual perception of susceptibility to onchocerciasis infection (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion  A programmatic focus on the benefits of CDTI could provide a basis for motivating communities to comply with long‐term treatment with ivermectin. The results illustrate the importance of capturing beneficiaries’ perceptions towards CDTI as a resource for producing health education materials for increasing the sustainability ivermectin distribution in endemic countries.
Spatial analysis and privation index to identify urban areas with a high risk of lymphatic filariasis
Authors: Bonfim Cristine , Alves Ayla , Costa Tadeu R. , Alencar Fabio , Pedroza Dinilson , Portugal José L. , Medeiros Zulma
Published: March 2011

Objective  To evaluate composite living conditions as indicators of urban areas with a higher risk of filariasis transmission.

Methods  This was an ecological study in the municipality of Jaboatão dos Guararapes, in Brazil. The analysis units were census tracts. The study was divided into three phases. First, data gathered during an epidemiological investigation were analysed. Secondly, living condition indicators were drawn up and the relationship between these indicators and microfilaremia prevalence rates was analysed. Thirdly, positive cases were georeferenced with a view to identifying spatial concentration using kernel intensity estimates. Two composite living condition indicators were calculated: a socio‐environmental risk index (in the form of scores) and a social deprivation index (through principal‐component factor analysis).

Results  Of 23 673 individuals examined, 1.4% had microfilaremia. According to the two indicators, greater prevalence was found in the high‐risk strata, and this association was confirmed by the kernel intensity estimates.

Conclusions  Classification of census tracts into risk strata showed the relevance of socio‐economic factors and environmental conditions in identifying priority areas in urban spaces for interventions by the surveillance services and in planning filariasis control. Spatial analysis also proved to be an important tool for building up a territorially based surveillance system. These indicators, used in association with spatial analysis, are an instrument to be used by the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis.
Graft volume as the surrogate marker for nephron number affects the outcomes of living‐donor kidney transplantation
Authors: Han Seung Seok , Yang Seung Hee , Oh Yoon Jung , Cho Jeong Yeon , Moon Kyung Chul , Ha Jongwon , Kim Yon Su
Published: March 2011

Han SS, Yang SH, Oh YJ, Cho JY, Moon KC, Ha J, Kim YS. Graft volume as the surrogate marker for nephron number affects the outcomes of living‐donor kidney transplantation. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: E327–E335. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Post‐transplant outcome of kidney allografts depends on various factors, one of which may be the compatibility in volume between graft and recipient. However, previous studies adjusted the graft volume only for recipient’s size. As the adjusted graft volume for donor’s size would be substituted of nephron number more accurately, we adjusted the graft volume for both recipient’s and donor’s sizes. In 351 cases of living‐donor kidney transplantation, we found that the adjusted graft volume for both recipient’s and donor’s body surface areas (BSAs) yielded larger area under the curves for the transplant outcomes than looking only at the adjusted volume for the recipient’s BSA. The recipients were separated into two groups according to the low and high adjusted graft volumes. During the follow‐up period (mean 55.6 months), the low‐graft‐volume group conferred greater risk of rejection, chronic change, glomerulonephritis, and graft loss than the high‐graft‐volume group (all p’s < 0.05). However, the frequency of T‐cell infiltration, as evaluated in protocol biopsy, was not different between the two adjusted graft volume groups. In conclusion, the graft volume as the surrogate marker for nephron number should be considered in kidney transplantation, especially in otherwise similar donor conditions.
A simple multiplex polymerase chain reaction to determine ABO blood types of rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Premasuthan A. , Kanthaswamy S. , Satkoski J. , Smith D. G.
Published: March 2011

Rhesus macaques are the most common nonhuman primate model organism used in biomedical research. Their increasingly frequent use as subjects in studies involving transplantation requires that blood and other tissue antigens of donors and recipients be compatible. We report here an easy and rapid multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to determine the ABO blood group phenotypes of rhesus macaques that can be performed with only small amounts of DNA. We phenotyped 78 individuals and found this species to exhibit the A, B and AB phenotypes in frequencies that vary by geographic region. The probability of randomly pairing rhesus macaque donors and recipients that exhibit major ABO phenotype incompatibility is approximately 0.35 and 0.45 for Indian and Chinese rhesus macaques, respectively.
Two novel HLA class II alleles, DRB1*11:96 and DQB1*02:01:03, identified in Koreans
Authors: Lee K. W.
Published: March 2011

DRB1*11:96 and DQB1*02:01:03 differ from DRB1*11: 01:01 and DQB1*02:01:01 by one nucleotide in exon 2, respectively.
Identification of an NAP‐like transcription factor BeNAC1 regulating leaf senescence in bamboo (Bambusa emeiensis‘Viridiflavus’)
Authors: Chen Yunxia , Qiu Kai , Kuai Benke , Ding Yulong
Published: March 2011

NAC (NAM, ATAF1,2 and CUC2) proteins, which are plant‐specific transcription factors, have crucial roles in plant development, abiotic stress responses, defense and leaf senescence. In this study, an NAC gene was isolated and characterized from the bamboo Bambusa emeiensis‘Viridiflavus’ and tentatively named BeNAC1. Sequence analysis revealed that BeNAC1 belongs to the NAP (NAC‐like, activated by APETALA 3/PISTILLATA) subgroup and has a conserved NAC domain in the N‐terminus. Transcriptional activation analysis in yeast indicated that BeNAC1 as well as its C‐terminus have trans‐activation activity. BeNAC1 localized in the nucleus and its transcript level correlated positively with the severity of leaf senescence. Driven by a 1.5‐kb upstream fragment of AtNAP, BeNAC1 could rescue the delayed‐senescence phenotype of nap. Constitutive overexpression of BeNAC1 resulted in various precocious senescence phenotypes in Arabidopsis. These results collectively indicate that BeNAC1 might play an important regulatory role in leaf senescence in bamboo.
Isolated cerebral manifestation of Epstein–Barr virus‐associated post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a case of clinical and diagnostic challenges
Authors: Kittan N.A. , Beier F. , Kurz K. , Niller H.H. , Egger L. , Jilg W. , Andreesen R. , Holler E. , Hildebrandt G.C.
Published: March 2011

N.A. Kittan, F. Beier, K. Kurz, H.H. Niller, L. Egger, W. Jilg, R. Andreesen, E. Holler, G.C. Hildebrandt. Isolated cerebral manifestation of Epstein–Barr virus‐associated post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a case of clinical and diagnostic challenges. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 524–530. All rights reserved

Abstract: We present the case of a 49‐year‐old male patient with Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐associated post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) limited to the brain that occurred 6 months after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Clinical symptoms included mental confusion, ataxia, and diplopia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed cerebellar and periventricular lesions consistent with an inflammatory process. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, but not peripheral blood, was positive for EBV‐DNA, but no malignant cells were found. Brain biopsy was not feasible because of low platelet counts. As we considered a diagnosis of either EBV‐associated encephalitis or PTLD, the patient was treated with rituximab combined with antiviral therapy. However, the cerebral lesions progressed and follow‐up CSF testing revealed immunoglobulin H clonality as evidence of a malignant process. Subsequent treatment attempts included 2 donor lymphocyte infusions (DLI). Despite treatment, the patient died from autopsy‐proven PTLD within 8 weeks of the onset of symptoms. This case demonstrates the clinical and diagnostic challenges of primary cerebral PTLD in a patient following allogeneic HSCT.
Peripartal Hormonal Changes in Alpine Goats: a Comparison Between Physiological and Pathological Parturition
Authors: Probo M , Cairoli F , Kindahl H , Faustini M , Galeati G , Veronesi MC
Published: March 2011

Contents

In this study, 31 pregnant Alpine does were used to investigate the peripartal plasma profiles of progesterone, estradiol‐17β, 15‐ketodihydro‐PGF2αand cortisol, assessing differences between goats with physiological and pathological parturition. The goats were observed around the time of parturition; all peripartum abnormalities were recorded, and veterinary assistance was provided if necessary. Blood samples were collected every 12 h from 7 days before to 7 days after delivery, and plasma used for hormonal analysis by radioimmunoassay. Two animals died during the study, and their data were excluded from the study. Of the remaining 29 animals, 23 goats had a spontaneous and physiological delivery, while six goats showed pathological parturition, including dystocia and retained placenta. The 65 alive kids were viable at birth and at 7 days of age. The results concerning the hormonal concentrations in the normal parturition confirm and define more precisely the patterns already described in the goat, while the comparison between physiological and pathological parturition has never been previously reported in this species. Highest peripartum levels of cortisol were found in the pathological group at delivery (30.6 vs 15.9 ng/ml) (p < 0.01) and 12 h later (26.2 vs 11.1 ng/ml) (p < 0.05); the greater cortisol concentrations found in goats with dystocia and retained placenta could suggest a higher level of stress. No significant differences between the two groups were found with respect to the circulating values of the other hormones, but the individual variability and the small number of goats enrolled in the pathological delivery group could have masked possible differences.
Isolation of marinobufotoxin from the supernatant of cultured PC12 cells
Authors: Yoshika Masamichi , Komiyama Yutaka , Takahashi Hakuo
Published: March 2011

1. Digitalis‐like factors (DLFs) are believed to be involved in sodium metabolism via inhibition of Na+/K+‐ATPase and may cause hypertension. Yet, the source and regulation of secretion of DLFs remain unknown. Recently, marinobufagenin (MBG) was isolated in mammals and implicated in renal sodium and water metabolism. More recently, we isolated marinobufotoxin (MBT), a suberoyl arginine ester of MBG, in Y‐1 cells. We have developed an ELISA to measure MBG‐like immunoreactivity (MBG‐IR) and have characterized MBG‐IR using chromatography. We have also identified a ouabain‐like factor in cultured PC12 cells from a phaeochromocytoma cell line. In the present study, we examined whether MBT was produced in the adrenal medulla.

2. PC12 cells were cultured in serum‐free medium and culture supernatants were collected over a period of 24 h. The supernatants were analysed by ELISA and HPLC to determine MBG‐IR content. The HPLC fraction containing the main peak of MBG‐IR was characterized by LC/MS.

3. Compared with samples collected at 0.5 h, the concentration of MBG‐IR in culture supernatants increased significantly after 2 h and continued to increase until 24 h. The fraction with the highest ELISA peak for MBG‐IR had the same HPLC elution time as authentic MBT. Furthermore, tandem mass spectrometry indicated that each fraction of MBT and MBG had the correct specific daughter ions.

4. The results indicate that MBT and MBG are produced and/or secreted by adrenomedullary cells.
Inhibition of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein improves insulin sensitivity and reduces atherogenic risk in Zucker fatty rats
Authors: Dhote Vipin , Joharapurkar Amit , Kshirsagar Samadhan , Dhanesha Nirav , Patel Vishal , Patel Avnish , Raval Saurin , Jain Mukul
Published: March 2011

1. Insulin‐resistant states are commonly associated with a significantly higher risk of atherosclerosis. Insulin resistance has also been correlated with enhanced very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) production, which is exacerbated by increased intestinal lipid synthesis and insulin‐stimulated de novo lipogenesis. Microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) catalyses the critical step in the synthesis and secretion of VLDL and chylomicrons. The purpose of the present study was to test the hypothesis that chronic inhibition of MTP with a small molecule inhibitor would improve insulin sensitivity and reduce atherogenic risk in a genetic model of diabetic dyslipidaemia.

2. The in vivo activity of BMS‐201038, a potent inhibitor of MTP, was evaluated in a model of hypertriglyceridemia induced by Triton WR1339 and corn oil in Zucker fatty rats. Triglyceride secretion rate was significantly reduced by a single dose of BMS‐201038 by 35% at 0.3 mg/kg and 47% at 1 mg/kg, respectively.

3. Another group of Zucker fatty rats was dosed orally with BMS‐201038 (0.3 and 1 mg/kg) for 14 days. Serum levels of triglycerides were reduced by 71% and 87%, non‐esterified free fatty acids were reduced by 33% and 40%, and low‐density lipoproteins by 26% and 29%, by 0.3 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg dose of BMS‐201038, respectively. These serum lipid changes were accompanied by significant improvements in glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. In addition, lipid peroxidation in liver was reduced by 59% and 61%, and superoxide dismutase activity was increased by 11% and 45% by 0.3 mg/kg and 1 mg/kg dose of BMS‐201038, respectively. Similar beneficial changes were found in aorta as well.

4. The present study provides evidence that inhibition of MTP with a small molecule inhibitor significantly improves dyslipidaemia associated with insulin resistance and reduces the atherosclerotic risk.
Composite T lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: Case report
Authors: Niino Daisuke , Ohsaki Koichi , Arakawa Fumiko , Watanabe Jiro , Kimura Yoshizo , Kiyasu Junichi , Takeuchi Masanori , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Yoshida Maki , Sugita Yasuo , Ohshima Koichi , Okamura Takashi
Published: March 2011

This report concerns a unique case of a composite lymphoma composed of T‐lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T‐LBL) and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) in a 72‐year‐old woman with generalized lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly and ascites. Laboratory findings showed increased lactate dehydrogenase and soluble interleukin‐2 receptor. The biopsy specimen showed replacement of the normal architecture of the lymph nodes by a tumor containing a dual cell population composed of large lymphocytes and medium‐sized lymphocytes. Sheets of large lymphocytes often were punctuated by clusters of medium‐sized lymphocytes. Flow cytometry and immunohistochemical analysis showed a composite lymphoma with both T‐LBL and DLBCL. The T‐LBL expressed CD1a, CD3, CD4, CD8, and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase. The DLBCL expressed CD19 and CD20, CD23, bcl‐2, bcl‐6, MUM1 and immunoglobulin κ light chain. Polymerase chain reaction detected a monoclonal pattern of T‐cell receptor γ and immunoglobulin heavy chain rearrangements in the same specimen. She received eight cycles of R‐CHOP (rituximab+cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisone) therapy and achieved complete remission. She has shown no signs of recurrence 20 months after the diagnosis. We describe here a very unusual and, to the best of our knowledge, an as yet never reported case of a primary composite lymphoma of T‐LBL and DLBCL.
Effect of spirometry and medical review on asthma control in patients in general practice: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: OEI SIAO MING , THIEN FRANCIS C.K. , SCHATTNER ROSA L. , SULAIMAN NABIL D. , BIRCH KATE , SIMPSON PAM , DEL COLLE ELEONORA A. , ARONI ROSALIE A. , WOLFE RORY , ABRAMSON MICHAEL J.
Published: March 2011

Background and objective:  Although guidelines for asthma emphasize the importance of spirometry for continuity and evaluation of care, it is underused in general practice. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of spirometry and medical review on asthma control in general practice over 12 months.

Methods:  Patients were recruited through 31 practices, which were randomly allocated to one of three groups: Group A had 3‐monthly spirometry with medical review, Group B spirometry only before and after the trial, and Group C usual care. Asthma control data were analysed by intention to treat using non‐parametric tests and logistic regression models fitted to allow for confounders, repeated measures and clustering by practice.

Results:  The trial was completed by 195 patients (Group A 69, Group B 78, Group C 48). Asthma control improved in all groups during the 12 months trial, most impressively in Group A (odds ratio per 3 months = 1.27, 95% confidence interval: 1.08–1.49, P = 0.004), but the difference between the groups' respective 3‐monthly changes was not significant. At 6 months, asthma control in Group A had increased more from baseline than in Groups B + C (P = 0.006).

Conclusions:  Regular spirometry with medical review was associated with improved asthma control in general practice patients, while there was less improvement in either the spirometry only or usual care group. The mechanisms of this improvement may include appropriate adjustment of medication and improved compliance.
The all‐age spirometry reference ranges reflect contemporary Australasian spirometry
Authors: THOMPSON BRUCE R. , STANOJEVIC SANJA , ABRAMSON MICHAEL J. , BEASLEY RICHARD , COATES ANDREW , DENT ANNETTE , ECKERT BRENTON , JAMES ALAN , FILSELL SUE , MUSK A. W. (BILL). , NOLAN GARY , DIXON BARBARA , O'DEA CHRIS , SAVAGE JENNI , STOCKS JANET , SWANNEY MAUREEN P. , HALL GRAHAM L. ,   ON BEHALF OF THE ANZSRS REFERENCE RANGES WORKING PARTY
Published: March 2011

Background and objective:  Advances in statistical modelling have allowed the creation of smoothly changing spirometry reference ranges that apply across a wide age range and better define the lower limit of normal. The objective of this study was to assess the agreement of the Stanojevic 2009 all‐age reference ranges to contemporary lung function data to verify the appropriateness of this reference for clinical use in Australia and New Zealand.

Methods:  Spirometry data from healthy Caucasians measured between 2000–2009 in Australia and New Zealand were collected. Z‐scores were calculated for the standard spirometry outcomes based on the all‐age reference ranges.

Results:  Spirometry from 2066 subjects aged 4–80 years (55% male) from 14 centres were eligible. Statistically, the collated contemporary dataset differed from the all‐age reference ranges, but these differences were relatively small and clinically irrelevant representing differences of approximately 3% predicted. Significant differences were also observed between some centres and equipment, potentially indicating varying influence of equipment or subject selection.

Conclusions:  Spirometry from contemporary Australasian healthy subjects fits the all‐age reference ranges well. While the current study supports the use of the all‐age reference ranges, the between‐centre differences highlight the need for spirometry to be used in conjunction with other clinical findings.
Multicentre audit of inpatient management of acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: comparison with clinical guidelines
Authors: Pretto J. J. , McDonald V. M. , Wark P. A. B. , Hensley M. J.
Published: March 2011

Background and objective:  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations are a major cause of hospital admission and clinical guidelines for optimised management are available. However, few data assessing concordance with these guidelines are available. We aimed to identify gaps and document variability in clinical practices for COPD admissions.

Methods:  Medical records of all admissions over a 3‐month period as COPD with non‐catastrophic or severe comorbidities or complications at eight acute‐care hospitals within the Hunter New England region were retrospectively audited.

Results:  Mean (SD) length of stay was 6.3 (6.1) days for 221 admissions with mean age of 71 (10), 53% female and 34% current smokers. Spirometry was performed in 34% of admissions with a wide inter‐hospital range (4–58%, P < 0.0001): mean FEV1 was 36% (18) predicted. Arterial blood gases were performed on admission in 54% of cases (range 0–85%, P < 0.0001). Parenteral steroids were used in 82% of admissions, antibiotics in 87% and oxygen therapy during admission in 79% (with oxygen prescription in only 3% of these). Bronchodilator therapy was converted from nebuliser to an inhaler device in 51% of cases early in admission at 1.6 (1.7) days. Only 22% of patients were referred to pulmonary rehabilitation (inter‐hospital range of 0–50%, P= 0.002). Re‐admission within 28 days was higher in rural hospitals compared with metropolitan (27% vs 7%, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:  We identified gaps in best practice service provision associated with wide inter‐hospital variations, indicating disparity in access to services throughout the region.
Effects of oral estrogen and hypnotics on Japanese peri‐ and postmenopausal women with sleep disturbance
Authors: Terauchi Masakazu , Obayashi Satoshi , Akiyoshi Mihoko , Kato Kiyoko , Matsushima Eisuke , Kubota Toshiro
Published: March 2011

Aim:  To assess the effects of estrogen and hypnotics on Japanese peri‐ and postmenopausal women with sleep disturbance.

Methods:  Among the records of 1451 participants enrolled in the Systematic Health and Nutrition Education Program conducted at the Menopause Clinic of the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital between 1995 and 2009, those of 202 peri‐ and postmenopausal women were retrospectively analyzed. These women, who had moderate to severe sleep disturbances, had either received only health and nutrition education (control; n = 119), or had received education with either conjugated estrogen (estrogen [0.625 mg/day]; n = 55) or nightly hypnotics (hypnotics; n = 28), and were followed up for a median interval of six months.

Results:  Both oral estrogen and hypnotics improved the subjective sleep disturbance scores, while administration of hypnotics decreased the percentage of women reporting difficulty in initiating sleep or non‐restorative sleep. Oral estrogen was also effective in alleviating various menopausal symptoms, while hypnotics were not. The health‐related quality of life of these patients was significantly promoted by health and nutrition education alone, and neither estrogen nor hypnotics had an additive effect on it. Administration of hypnotics substantially lowered the blood pressure of the subjects (systolic pressure, −10.2%; diastolic pressure, −8.3%) and significantly reduced body weight (−2.1%), body mass index (−2.2%) and body fat (−7.8%), without affecting lean body mass.

Conclusions:  Oral estrogen and hypnotics are effective for sleep disturbance in Japanese peri‐ and postmenopausal women. They can be admininstered either singly or in combination, according to the patient's characteristics.