bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of post‐traumatic stress disorder in children using cognitive behavioural writing therapy
Authors: Van der Oord Saskia , Lucassen S. , Van Emmerik A. A. P. , Emmelkamp P. M. G.
Published: December 2009

Objectives: This study evaluated the effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Writing Therapy (CBWT) in 23 children (age 8–18 years) in the Netherlands, who experienced a range of single and recurrent traumatic experiences. CBWT uses exposure, cognitive restructuring and social sharing. Methods: At pre‐test, post‐test and follow‐up, post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms, depressive symptoms, trauma‐related cognitions and general behavioural problems were assessed. Results: At post‐test there was a significant reduction of all symptoms, and this effect was maintained at 6 months follow‐up. The mean amount of treatment sessions needed was 5.5. Conclusions: This study shows that short‐term CBWT is a potentially effective intervention for clinically referred traumatized children. There is now a clear need of establishing the effectiveness of CBWT in a randomized, controlled trial. Practice implication: This first study indicates CBWT is a promising treatment, which can easily be used in clinical practice. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Key practitioner massage:

CWBT can easily be implemented in clinical practice.

CWBT is suitable for a clinically representative group of children and adolescents with PTSD, who have experienced a wide range of single and recurrent traumatic experiences.

CWBT is a short‐term potentially effective treatment.
Artesunate plus amodiaquine combination therapy: reviewing the evidence
Authors: Adjei George O. , Kudzi William , Dodoo Alexander , Kurtzhals Jorgen A.L.
Published: December 2009

The combination of artesunate plus amodiaquine (AS/AQ) is, next to the fixed‐dose combination of artemether‐lumefantrine, the most widely adopted artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) regimen being used as first‐line therapy for uncomplicated malaria by National Malaria Control Programs in sub‐Saharan Africa. In contrast to other ACT regimens in current use, on which reviews of the available evidence on safety and efficacy have been periodically published, no, or few summaries of the extensive data available on the safety and efficacy of this widely used ACT are available in the published literature. The available evidence on AS/AQ indicates high efficacy of this combination in children, variable tolerability in adults, and an interaction between artesunate and amodiaquine that could have implications for medium term efficacy or safety of the combination. In this article, a review of the available evidence on the efficacy and safety on AS/AQ, with a particular focus on parameters that could have operational significance for malaria control in endemic areas, is presented and discussed. Drug Dev Res 71: 33–43, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Malaria drugs: clues from malaria resistance genetics
Authors: Gurwitz David
Published: December 2009

New treatments for malaria are desperately needed. Malaria drug design can be assisted by knowledge on protective host genotypes. Individuals immune to severe malaria, being only mildly affected by the parasite infection, may carry alleles that provide protection from severe disease, which may provide clues for drug discovery. Lessons about protective genotypes have improved our understanding on the transmission and pathogenicity of the human immunodeficiency virus and have led to novel drug design. Similarly, clues from malaria protective genes may help in the design of new malaria therapies. Drug Dev Res 71: 1–3, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Application of FAIMS to anabolic androgenic steroids in sport drug testing
Authors: Guddat Sven , Thevis Mario , Kapron James , Thomas Andreas , Schänzer Wilhelm
Published: December 2009

Mass spectrometric identification of anabolic androgenic steroids challenges standard doping‐control methods. To reveal a doping offence the presence of prohibited anabolic androgenic steroids at trace levels in the picogram‐per‐millilitre range must be confirmed as reliable. Human urine samples containing epitrenbolone, metandienone metabolite (17β ‐hydroxymethyl‐17α‐methyl‐18‐norandrost‐1,4,13‐trien‐3‐one), stanozolol, 16β‐hydroxystanozolol and 4β‐hydroxystanozolol were analysed using LC‐FAIMS‐MS/MS. These substances are prohibited in sport according to World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) regulations. Glucuronides were hydrolysed and prepared by liquid‐liquid extraction. Excellent recovery and precision were obtained for all compounds. Linear calibration results for epitrenbolone and metandienone metabolite were obtained and concentration information could be determined in the ranges of reliable response between 750–1200 and 100–600 pg/mL, respectively. Limits of detection were estimated at 25 pg/mL (stanozolol), 50 pg/mL (metandienone metabolite, 16β‐hydroxystanozolol), 100 pg/mL (4β‐hydroxystanozolol) and 500 pg/mL (epitrenbolone). The assay was applied to doping‐control samples. For all analytes, LC‐FAIMS‐MS/MS resulted in excellent interference removal, which effectively extends the post‐dose detection time. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemoselective Reagents for Covalent Capture and Display of Glycans in Microarrays
Authors: Cló Emiliano , Blixt Ola , Jensen Knud J.
Published: December 2009

Glycobiology has made very significant progress in the past decades. However, further progress will significantly depend on the establishment of novel methods for miniaturized, high‐throughput analysis of glycan–protein interactions. Robust solid‐phase chemical tools and new, chemoselective reagents for biologically meaningful display of surface‐immobilized glycans are likely to play a key role. Here we present four new bifunctional linkers that allow highly chemoselective capture of unprotected glycans in solution to form glycan‐linker conjugates for direct construction of glycan microarrays (glycochips). The bifunctional linkers carry O‐linked aminooxy moieties, some with N‐substituents at one end and an amino group at the other. In addition, they contain a substituted benzene ring for UV traceability and improved purification of glycan‐linker conjugates. NMR spectroscopic studies in solution proved that N‐substituted aminooxy linkers provided model glycan‐linker conjugates with the β‐glucopyranoside configuration, i.e. the ring‐closed form required for biological recognition. Then an ensemble of glycan‐linker conjugates were assembled from mannobiose, lactose, and N‐acetyl‐lactosamine and used for covalent printing of glycan microarrays. The stability of oximes were studied both in solution and on‐chip. In solution, two of the linkers provided glycan‐linker conjugates with a remarkable stability at pH 4 or higher, on‐chip this relative stability was upheld. Two of the linkers, with different properties, are recommended for the glycobiology toolbox for the construction of glycan microarrays from unprotected glycans.
Suppression of tumorigenesis and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma by shRNA interference targeting on homeoprotein Six1
Authors: Ng Kevin T.P. , Lee Terence K.W. , Cheng Qiao , Wo Jana Y.H. , Sun Chris K.W. , Guo Dong‐Yong , Lim Zophia X. , Lo Chung‐Mau , Poon Ronnie T.P. , Fan Sheung‐Tat , Man Kwan
Published: December 2009

We previously demonstrated that the overexpression of homeoprotein Six1 in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients is associated with venous infiltration, advanced pathologic tumor metastasis (pTNM) stage and poor overall survival rate (Ng et al. Br J Cancer 2006;95:1050–5). In this study, short hairpin RNA (shRNA) interference approach was used to suppress the expression of Six1 in a metastatic HCC cell line MHCC97L. Stable transfectant MHCC97L‐shSix1 carrying Six1‐specific shRNA plasmid was established to downregulate Six1 expression to about 40% when compared with MHCC97L‐Control. In vitro functional assays demonstrated that the growth rate and proliferation ability of MHCC97L‐shSix1 cells were markedly decreased. Moreover, significant decrease of cell motility and invasiveness were observed in MHCC97L‐shSix1 cells. Data from in vivo xenograft tumorigenesis model demonstrated that the size of tumor in MHCC97L‐shSix1 group was dramatically reduced. Experimental and spontaneous metastasis models indicated that targeting Six1 suppression noticeably reduced the pulmonary metastasis in MHCC97L‐shSix1 group. To identify Six1‐regulated targets, cDNA microarray was employed to compare the expression profiles of MHCC97L‐Control and MHCC97L‐shSix1 cells. Twenty‐eight downregulated and 24 upregulated genes with known functions were identified in MHCC97L‐shSix1. The functions of these target genes are involved in diverse biological activities. Our data suggest that Six1 may be involved in regulation of proliferation and invasiveness of HCC; thus targeting suppression of Six1 is a viable option for treating HCC patients.
The precancerous effect of emitted cooking oil fumes on precursor lesions of cervical cancer
Authors: Lee Chien‐Hung , Yang Sheau‐Fang , Peng Chiung‐Yu , Li Ruei‐Nian , Chen Yu‐Chieh , Chan Te‐Fu , Tsai Eing‐Mei , Kuo Fu‐Chen , Huang Joh‐Jong , Tsai Hsiu‐Ting , Hung Yu‐Hsiu , Huang Hsiao‐Ling , Tsai Sharon , Wu Ming‐Tsang
Published: December 2009

Although cooking emission from high‐temperature frying has been deemed a Group 2A carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, little is known about its impact on cervical tumorigenesis. To investigate the precancerous consequence of cooking oil fumes on cervical intraepithelial neoplasm (CIN), a community‐based case‐control study, which takes all known risk factors into consideration, was conducted in Taiwan. From 2003 to 2008, in a Pap smear screening and biopsy examination network, 206 pathology‐verified women with inflammations/atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance or CIN grade‐1 (CIN1) and 73 with CIN2−3 (defined as low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LGSIL) and high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HGSIL), respectively); and 1,200 area‐and‐age‐matched controls with negative cytology were recruited. Multinomial logistic regression was applied in the multivariate analysis to determine the likelihood of contracting LGSIL or HGSIL. The risks of the two lesions increased with the increase of carcinogenic high‐risk human papillomavirus DNA load, with a clear dose‐response relationship. Chefs were observed to experience a 7.9‐fold elevated HGSIL risk. Kitchens with poor fume ventilation during the main cooking life‐stage correlated to a 3.7‐fold risk of HGSIL, but not for LGSIL. More than 1 hr of daily cooking in kitchens with poor fume conditions appeared to confer an 8.4‐fold HGSIL risk, with an 8.3‐fold heterogeneously higher odds ratio than that (aOR = 1.0) for LGSIL. Similar risk pattern has been reproduced among never‐smoking women. Our findings demonstrate the association between indoor exposure to cooking fumes from heated oil and the late development of cervical precancerous lesions. This final conclusion needs to be verified by future research.
Calibration of a distributed irrigation water management model using remotely sensed evapotranspiration rates and groundwater heads
Authors: Jhorar Raj Kumar , Smit A.A.M.F.R. , Bastiaanssen W.G.M. , Roest C.W.J.
Published: December 2009

Parameters of the distributed irrigation water management model FRAME are determined by an inverse method using evapotranspiration (ET) rates estimated from the SEBAL remote sensing procedure and in situ measurement of groundwater heads. The model simulates canal and on‐farm water management as well as regional groundwater flow. The calibration is achieved in two phases. The data on ET were introduced with the primary intent of improving predictions of ET through better estimated soil hydraulic parameters. During the first phase, soil hydraulic parameters sensitive to ET were optimized. As per the canal running schedule in the study area, the daily values of ET data were synthesized into 16 time periods with 15 periods each of 24 days and one period of 5 days. Use of cumulative (annual basis) ET data results in better estimates of soil hydraulic parameters as compared to temporal (24‐day period basis) ET data due to possible errors in other input data. During the second phase of calibration, aquifer drainable porosity and maximum allowable groundwater extraction were optimized against groundwater heads for five years. The calibration was very successful in about 70% of the study area with a coefficient of correlation between simulated and observed groundwater levels of more than 80%. Subsequently the model is validated against groundwater heads for nine years. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
S100A6 (calcyclin) deficiency induces senescence‐like changes in cell cycle, morphology and functional characteristics of mouse NIH 3T3 fibroblasts
Authors: Słomnicki Łukasz P. , Leśniak Wiesława
Published: December 2009

S100A6 (calcyclin) is a calcium binding protein with two EF‐hand structures expressed mostly in fibroblasts and epithelial cells. We have established a NIH 3T3 fibroblast cell line stably transfected with siRNA against S100A6 to examine the effect of S100A6 deficiency on non‐transformed cell physiology. We found that NIH 3T3 fibroblasts with decreased level of S100A6 manifested altered cell morphology and proliferated at a much slower pace than the control cells. Cell cycle analysis showed that a large population of these cells lost the ability to respond to serum and persisted in the G0/G1 phase. Furthermore, fibroblasts with diminished S100A6 level exhibited morphological changes and biochemical features of cellular senescence as revealed by β‐galactosidase and gelatinase assays. Also, S100A6 deficiency induced changes in the actin cytoskeleton and had a profound impact on cell adhesion and migration. Thus, we have shown that the S100A6 protein is involved in multiple aspects of fibroblast physiology and that its presence ensures normal fibroblast proliferation and function. J. Cell. Biochem. 109: 576–584, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
FIAT control of osteoblast activity
Authors: St‐Arnaud René , Mandic Vice
Published: December 2009

The basic domain‐leucine zipper transcription factor activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) regulates most functions of the osteoblast. It is therefore not surprising that its activity should be regulated through several mechanisms. Factor inhibiting ATF4‐mediated transcription (FIAT) is a leucine zipper nuclear molecule lacking a basic domain for DNA binding that interacts with ATF4 to repress its transcriptional activity. FIAT expression was monitored in parallel with ATF4 during osteoblastogenesis. The mechanism of ATF4 repression by FIAT was investigated through structure–function analysis. The physiological significance of FIAT expression in osteoblasts was studied through silencing FIAT in osteoblasts by RNA interference, as well as through characterization of two genetic mouse models: FIAT transgenic mice which overexpress FIAT in osteoblasts, and FIAT knockout mice. Studies to date show that FIAT and ATF4 are co‐expressed in osteoblasts, and that FIAT inhibition of matrix mineralization requires dimerization with ATF4 through the second leucine zipper. Furthermore, transgenic mice overexpressing FIAT exhibit osteopenia. The phenotype of FIAT knockout mice is still under evaluation but the salient aspects are discussed here. Taken together, the results accumulated to date support the hypothesis that FIAT is a transcriptional repressor that modulates osteoblast function. J. Cell. Biochem. 109: 453–459, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative skull osteology of Karsenia koreana (Amphibia, Caudata, Plethodontidae)
Authors: Buckley David , Wake Marvalee H. , Wake David B.
Published: December 2009

The recent discovery of a plethodontid salamander, Karsenia koreana, in Korea challenged our understanding of the biogeographic history of the family Plethodontidae, by far the largest family of salamanders, which otherwise is distributed in the New World with a few European species. Molecular studies suggest that Karsenia forms a clade with Hydromantes (sensu lato), which includes among its species the only other Old World plethodontids. We studied the skull of K. koreana and compared it with that of other plethodontid genera, especially members of the subfamily Plethodontinae, which it resembles most closely in general anatomy. The anatomy of its skull corresponds to the most generalized and apparently ancestral condition for plethodontids. No clearly autapomorphic states were detected, and no synapomorphies can be found that would link it to other genera. The Karsenia skull is cylindrical and well ossified, giving an impression of strength. In contrast, the skull of Hydromantes is highly derived; the skull is flattened and the bones are weakly ossified and articulated. Hydromantes and Karsenia share no unique anatomical features; differences between them are especially evident in the hyobranchial skeleton, which is generalized in Karsenia but highly modified in Hydromantes, which is well known for its highly projectile tongue. Plethodon and Plethodon‐like species, including Karsenia and to a lesser degree Ensatina, represent the more generalized and apparently ancestral plethodontid morphology. Specialized morphologies have evolved along only a few morphological axes within the Plethodontidae, resulting in a pattern of rampant homoplasy. Our analysis of the anatomy of the new Asiatic lineage illuminates some potential mechanisms underlying adaptive morphological evolution within the Plethodontidae. J. Morphol. 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Posthatching development of Alligator mississippiensis ovary and testis
Authors: Moore Brandon C. , Hamlin Heather J. , Botteri Nicole L. , Lawler Ashley N. , Mathavan Ketan K. , Guillette Louis J.
Published: December 2009

We investigated ovary and testis development of Alligator mississippiensis during the first 5 months posthatch. To better describe follicle assembly and seminiferous cord development, we used histochemical techniques to detect carbohydrate‐rich extracellular matrix components in 1‐week, 1‐month, 3‐month, and 5‐month‐old gonads. We found profound morphological changes in both ovary and testis. During this time, oogenesis progressed up to diplotene arrest and meiotic germ cells increasingly interacted with follicular cells. Concomitant with follicles becoming invested with full complements of granulosa cells, a periodic acid Schiff's (PAS)‐positive basement membrane formed. As follicles enlarged and thecal layers were observed, basement membranes and thecal compartments gained periodic acid‐methionine silver (PAMS)‐reactive fibers. The ovarian medulla increased first PAS‐ and then PAMS reactivity as it fragmented into wide lacunae lined with low cuboidal to squamous epithelia. During this same period, testicular germ cells found along the tubule margins were observed progressing from spermatogonia to round spermatids located within the center of tubules. Accompanying this meiotic development, interstitial Leydig cell clusters become more visible and testicular capsules thickened. During the observed testis development, the thickening tunica albuginea and widening interstitial tissues showed increasing PAS‐ and PAMS reactivity. We observed putative intersex structures in both ovary and testis. On the coelomic aspect of testes were cell clusters with germ cell morphology and at the posterior end of ovaries, we observed “medullary rests” resembling immature testis cords. We hypothesize laboratory conditions accelerated gonad maturation due to optimum conditions, including nutrients and temperature. Laboratory alligators grew more rapidly and with increased body conditions compared with previous measured, field‐caught animals. Additionally, we predict the morphological maturation observed in these gonads is concomitant with increased endocrine activities. J. Morphol. 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Virtual reality: A new paranasal sinus surgery simulator
Authors: Tolsdorff Boris , Pommert Andreas , Höhne Karl Heinz , Petersik Andreas , Pflesser Bernhard , Tiede Ulf , Leuwer Rudolf
Published: December 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Virtual surgical training systems are of growing value. Current prototypes for endonasal sinus surgery simulation are very expensive or lack running stability. No reliable system is available to a notable number of users yet. The purpose of this work was to develop a dependable simulator running on standard PC hardware including a detailed anatomic model, realistic tools and handling, stereoscopic view, and force feedback.

Study Design:

Descriptive.

Methods:

A three‐dimensional voxel model was created based on a high‐resolution computed tomography study of a human skull, from which the bony structures were segmented. The mucosa and organs at risk were added manually. The model may be manipulated with virtual surgical tools controlled with a low‐cost haptic device, which is also used to adjust microscopic or endoscopic views. Visualization, haptic rendering, and tissue removal are represented with subvoxel resolution.

Results:

The handling of the model is convincing. The haptic device provides a realistic feeling regarding the interaction between tool tip and anatomy. Three‐dimensional orientation and the look and feel of virtual surgical interventions get close to reality.

Conclusions:

The newly developed system is a stable, fully operational simulator for sinus surgery based on standard PC hardware. Besides the limitations of a low‐cost haptic device, the presented system is highly realistic regarding anatomy, visualization, manipulation, and the appearance of the tools. It is mainly intended for gaining surgical anatomy knowledge and for training navigation in a complex anatomical environment. Learning effects, including motor skills, have yet to be quantified. Laryngoscope, 2010
Outcomes of salvage surgery with free flap reconstruction for recurrent oral and oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Kostrzewa John P. , Lancaster William P. , Iseli Tim A. , Desmond Renee A. , Carroll William R. , Rosenthal Eben L.
Published: December 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate outcomes of salvage surgery with free flap reconstruction for recurrent squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx and oral cavity with increased use of chemoradiotherapy.

Study Design:

Retrospective patient review.

Methods:

All patients undergoing salvage surgery with free flap reconstruction for oropharynx (n = 36) and oral cavity (n = 36) squamous cell carcinomas between January 2001 and January 2008 were obtained. Mean follow‐up was 14 months. Previous chemoradiotherapy was used in 40% and radiotherapy alone in 60%.

Results:

Complications were more frequent in oropharynx than oral cavity tumors (36% and 14%, respectively; P = .05) requiring more secondary procedures (15 for oropharynx vs. six for oral cavity). Few patients returned to a normal diet (8%), and a majority retained an enterogastric feeding tube (56%). Median survival overall following salvage surgery was 44.8 months for oral cavity and 53.8 months for oropharynx head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Overall estimated 1‐, 2‐, and 5‐year observed survivals were 98%, 77.2%, and 43.7%, respectively. Twelve patients had a disease‐free interval of <6 months, 92% of whom died of disease. Of 17 patients with disease at the primary site and involved regional lymph nodes, 94% died of disease.

Conclusions:

Salvage surgery with free flap reconstruction for recurrent oral and oropharyngeal tumors after chemoradiotherapy has acceptable morbidity and similar cure rates as salvage following radiotherapy without chemotherapy. Concurrent nodal recurrence and short disease‐free interval are associated with reduced cure rates. A significant proportion will require enterogastric feeding and few will tolerate a normal diet. Laryngoscope, 2010
Pyramidal eminence and subpyramidal space: An endoscopic anatomical study
Authors: Marchioni Daniele , Alicandri‐Ciufelli Matteo , Grammatica Alberto , Mattioli Francesco , Presutti Livio
Published: December 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To describe retrotympanic endoscopic anatomy, especially the pyramidal eminence and contiguous spaces.

Study Design:

This was an anatomical study on a prospective case series.

Methods:

The anatomy of the retrotympanum was studied by endoscopy in nine patients affected by cholesteatoma who underwent tympanomastoid surgery and in six temporal bone dissections.

Results:

Pneumatization of the sinus tympani and posterior tympanic sinus or both, noted in 12 ears out of 15, may give rise to a recess beneath the pyramidal eminence, which we have called the subpyramidal space. This space can manifest with a variable degree of depth, shape, or extent depending on the shape and dimensions of the pyramidal eminence.

Conclusions:

Endoscopic exploration of the middle ear may guarantee a very good exposure of retrotympanic structures, allowing detailed anatomical descriptions of hidden areas. Improvement in our knowledge of the anatomy may decrease the possibility of residual disease during cholesteatoma surgery. Laryngoscope, 2010
Review of current progress in quantum dot infrared photodetectors
Authors: Barve A.V. , Lee S.J. , Noh S.K. , Krishna S.
Published: December 2009

Quantum dot infrared photodetectors (QDIPs) have made significant progress after their early demonstration about a decade ago. We review the progress made by QDIP technology over the last few years and compare QDIPs with quantum well infrared photodetectors (QWIPs). It is shown that the performance of QDIPs has significantly improved using novel architectures such as dots‐in‐a‐well designs, and large‐format (1 K × 1 K) focal plane arrays have been realized. However, even though there are significant reports of performance parameters better than QWIPs from single‐pixel devices, QDIP‐based focal plane arrays are still a factor of 3–5 worse in terms of noise equivalent temperature difference. We discuss the reasons for the performance gap and the key scientific and technological challenges that need to be addressed to achieve the full potential of QD‐based technology.
Anisotropy of spin relaxation of water protons in cartilage and tendon
Authors: Momot Konstantin I. , Pope James M. , Wellard R. Mark
Published: December 2009

Transverse spin relaxation rates of water protons in articular cartilage and tendon depend on the orientation of the tissue relative to the applied static magnetic field. This complicates the interpretation of magnetic resonance images of these tissues. At the same time, relaxation data can provide information about their organisation and microstructure. We present a theoretical analysis of the anisotropy of spin relaxation of water protons observed in fully hydrated cartilage. We demonstrate that the anisotropy of transverse relaxation is due almost entirely to intramolecular dipolar coupling modulated by a specific mode of slow molecular motion: the diffusion of water molecules in the hydration shell of a collagen fibre around the fibre, such that the molecular director remains perpendicular to the fibre. The theoretical anisotropy arising from this mechanism follows the ‘magic‐angle’ dependence observed in magnetic‐resonance measurements of cartilage and tendon and is in good agreement with the available experimental results. We discuss the implications of the theoretical findings for MRI of ordered collagenous tissues. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomic characterization of a pilR regulatory mutant of Azoarcus sp. strain BH72 with the aid of gel‐based and gel‐free approaches
Authors: Hauberg Lena , Schmidt Frank , Scharf Christian , Dörr Juliane , Völker Uwe , Reinhold‐Hurek Barbara
Published: December 2009

The proteome of the grass endophyte Azoarcus sp. strain BH72 was analyzed by a combination of gel‐based methods by means of 2‐DE and MS and a gel‐free approach via LC‐MS/MS. Among the identified 785 proteins, synthesis of around 100 conserved hypothetical proteins could be confirmed. Membrane proteins were detected at a higher rate in the gel‐free than in the gel‐based approach. The abundance of proteins in the constructed proteome reference map was analyzed and the 30 most abundant proteins were determined. The reference map was then used as a starting point to characterize the regulon under control of the response regulator PilR. PilR is part of the two‐component regulatory system PilSR controlling type IV pilin gene (pilAB) expression in strain BH72, which was strongly decreased (19.7‐fold) in the pilR‐mutant. Changes of protein composition in the wild type and the regulatory mutant were compared by the gel‐based and gel‐free analyses. Proteins responsible for amino acid and energy metabolism, chaperones as well as proteins that are involved in iron metabolism and iron storage were present in a pilR‐mutant at different levels than in the wild‐type strain. Levels of the transcriptional regulator Flp were also dependent on PilR, indicating that PilR might be part of a hierarchical regulatory cascade.
Mesoporous silica chips for selective enrichment and stabilization of low molecular weight proteome
Authors: Bouamrani Ali , Hu Ye , Tasciotti Ennio , Li Li , Chiappini Ciro , Liu Xuewu , Ferrari Mauro
Published: December 2009

The advanced properties of mesoporous silica have been demonstrated in applications, which include chemical sensing, filtration, catalysis, drug delivery and selective biomolecular uptake. These properties depend on the architectural, physical and chemical properties of the material, which in turn are determined by the processing parameters in evaporation‐induced self‐assembly. In this study, we introduce a combinatorial approach for the removal of the high molecular weight proteins and for the specific isolation and enrichment of low molecular weight species. This approach is based on mesoporous silica chips able to fractionate, selectively harvest and protect from enzymatic degradation, peptides and proteins present in complex human biological fluids. We present the characterization of the harvesting properties of a wide range of mesoporous chips using a library of peptides and proteins standard and their selectivity on the recovery of serum peptidome. Using MALDI‐TOF‐MS, we established the correlation between the harvesting specificity and the physicochemical properties of mesoporous silica surfaces. The introduction of this mesoporous material with fine controlled properties will provide a powerful platform for proteomics application offering a rapid and efficient methodology for low molecular weight biomarker discovery.
Dynamics of the Dictyostelium discoideum mitochondrial proteome during vegetative growth, starvation and early stages of development
Authors: Czarna Malgorzata , Mathy Gregory , Mac'Cord Allan , Dobson Rowan , Jarmuszkiewicz Wieslawa , Sluse‐Goffart Claudine M. , Leprince Pierre , De Pauw Edwin , Sluse Francis E.
Published: December 2009

In this study, a quantitative comparative proteomics approach has been used to analyze the Dictyostelium discoideum mitochondrial proteome variations during vegetative growth, starvation and the early stages of development. Application of 2‐D DIGE technology allowed the detection of around 2000 protein spots on each 2‐D gel with 180 proteins exhibiting significant changes in their expression level. In total, 96 proteins (51 unique and 45 redundant) were unambiguously identified. We show that the D. discoideum mitochondrial proteome adaptations mainly affect energy metabolism enzymes (the Krebs cycle, anaplerotic pathways, the oxidative phosphorylation system and energy dissipation), proteins involved in developmental and signaling processes as well as in protein biosynthesis and fate. The most striking observations were the opposite regulation of expression of citrate synthase and aconitase and the very large variation in the expression of the alternative oxidase that highlighted the importance of citrate and alternative oxidase in the physiology of the development of D. discoideum. Mitochondrial energy states measured in vivo with MitoTracker Orange CM™Ros showed an increase in mitochondrial membrane polarization during D. discoideum starvation and starvation‐induced development.
Insulin mimetics in Urtica dioica: structural and computational analyses of Urtica dioica extracts
Authors: Domola Masoud Shabani , Vu Vivian , Robson‐Doucette Christine A. , Sweeney Gary , Wheeler Michael B.
Published: December 2009

Urtica Dioica (UD) is a plant shown to reduce blood glucose levels upon oral ingestion; however, neither its active component nor its mechanism of action has been identified. One active fraction of this extract, termed UD‐1, was separated by molecular sieve column chromatography and purified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). While UD‐1 did not stimulate insulin secretion in glucose‐responsive MIN6 clonal beta‐cells, chronic exposure (24 h) significantly enhanced glucose uptake (∼1.5‐fold) in L6‐GLUT4myc myoblast cells. Using HPLC and MALDI‐TOF, we further purified the UD‐1 fraction into two fractions termed UD‐1A and UD‐1B. Computational and structural analyses strongly suggested that the antidiabetic component of UD‐1 was due to one or more structurally related cyclical peptides that facilitate glucose uptake by forming unique glucose permeable pores. The structure and function of these glucose‐conducting pores are discussed herein. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theoretical study of [Si,O,C,O] species: Prediction of new species on triplet potential energy surface
Authors: Mondal Bhaskar , Ghosh Deepanwita , Das Abhijit K.
Published: December 2009

The intermediates [Si,O,C,O] of the Si + CO2 reaction have been studied in detail using high level ab iniitio methods. Both singlet and triplet [Si,O,C,O] species are characterized structurally and energetically. On the singlet potential energy surface (PES), the vdw‐OSi–CO isomer and in the triplet PES, the bent‐SiOCO isomer is found to be thermodynamically as well as kinetically most stable species. All possible isomerization transition states (TS) are located on both singlet and triplet potential surfaces. On the triplet surface, the stability of the trans‐OSiCO isomer is comparable with that of the bent‐SiOCO isomer. A non‐planar cis‐SiOCO isomer is located on the triplet PES, which is predicted for the first time. Heats of formation at 0 K (ΔfH°, 0 K) for all singlet and triplet species are computed using G3B3, G3MP2, and CBS‐Q theories. The discrepancy between G3B3 and the other two methods for the heat of formation value for triplet trans‐OSiCO is discussed. The PESs for singlet as well as triplet species with their dissociation asymptotes are explored at the CCSD(T)/6‐311G(d,p)//MP2/6‐311G(d,p) level of theory. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Rapid prototyped PGA/PLA scaffolds in the reconstruction of mandibular condyle bone defects
Authors: Xu Hua , Han Dong , Dong Jia‐Sheng , Shen Guo‐Xiong , Chai Gang , Yu Zhe‐Yuan , Lang Wei‐Jun , Ai Song‐Tao
Published: December 2009

Background

Craniomaxillofacial bone defects are currently reconstructed by using computer‐aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) processes. We have developed a novel digital medical support system that enables us to custom‐make scaffolds to repair craniomaxillofacial bone defects using three‐dimensional computed tomographic (CT) images and a rapid‐prototyping method.

Methods

We created positive molds using CT data, CAD/CAM and a rapid prototyping method using 3D printing. Custom‐made poly (glycolic acid) (PGA) and polymers poly (lactic acid) (PLA) scaffolds were prefabricated by a positive‐negative mold interchange technique. A laser scanning system was used to evaluate the accuracy of the PGA/PLA scaffold. Bone marrow stem cells were incubated with the scaffold to assess biocompatibility.

Results

The mean error was <0.3 mm and confidence was ≥95% when the error was <1 mm. Results from in vitro cell culture demonstrated that the PGA/PLA scaffold had excellent cellular compatibility.

Conclusions

This pilot study suggests that custom‐made PGA/PLA scaffolds infiltrated with bone marrow stem cells may be effective for future treatment of craniomaxillofacial bone injuries. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A medical tactile sensing instrument for detecting embedded objects, with specific application for breast examination
Authors: Hosseini Sayyed Mohsen , Kashani Seyed Mohsen Towliat , Najarian Siamak , Panahi Farzad , Naeini Seyed Morteza Mousavi , Mojra Afsaneh
Published: December 2009

Background

In this paper, having considered the tactile sensing and palpation of a physician in order to detect abnormal masses in the breast, we simplified and then modelled the tissue containing a mass and used contact elements to analyse the tactile sensor function.

Methods

By using the finite element method, the effects of the mass existence appeared on the surface of the tissue. This was due to exerting mechanical load on the modelled tissue surface. Following this, a tactile sensing instrument called the ‘tactile tumour detector’ (TTD) was designed and constructed. This device is able to detect abnormal objects in the simulated models by making contact with model surfaces. In order to perform a series of precise experiments, a robot that could hold the tactile probe was used. The velocity of the linear movement of the probe is low enough to ensure that the tissue behaves in the linear elastic range, so that dynamic effects can be neglected.

Results and Discussion

The maximum value of stresses was chosen as the comparison criterion. The variation of this criterion vs. the mass parameter changes was investigated and good agreements between numerical and experimental results were obtained. Moreover, the sensitivity and specificity of TTD and clinical breast examination (CBE) in the detection of breast masses, in comparison to sonography as the ‘gold standard’, were calculated by performing clinical trials on 55 cases. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toward Engineering a Human Neoendothelium with Circulating Progenitor Cells
Authors: Allen Josephine B. , Khan Sadiya , Lapidos Karen A. , Ameer Guillermo A.
Published: December 2009

Tissue-engineered vascular grafts may one day provide a solution to many of the limitations associated with using synthetic vascular grafts. However, identifying a suitable cell source and polymer scaffold to recreate the properties of a native blood vessel remains a challenge. In this work, we assess the feasibility of using endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) found in circulating blood to generate a functional endothelium on poly(1,8-octanediol-co-citrate) (POC), a biodegradable elastomeric polyester. EPCs were isolated from human blood and biochemically differentiated into endothelial-like cells (HE-like) in vitro. The differentiated cell phenotype and function was confirmed by the appearance of the characteristic endothelial cell (EC) cobblestone morphology and positive staining for EC markers, von Willebrand factor, vascular endothelial cadherin, flk-1, and CD31. In addition, HE-like cells cultured on POC express endothelial nitric oxide synthase at levels comparable to aortic ECs. Furthermore, as with mature endothelial cells, HE-like cell populations show negligible expression of tissue factor. Similarly, HE-like cells produce and secrete prostacyclin and tissue plasminogen activator at levels comparable to venous and aortic ECs. When compared to fibroblast cells, HE-like cells cultured on POC show a decrease in the rate of plasma and whole-blood clot formation as well as a decrease in platelet adhesion. Finally, the data show that HE-like cells can withstand physiological shear stress of 10 dynes/cm2 when cultured on POC-modified expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) vascular grafts. Collectively, these data are the foundation for future clinical studies in the creation of an autologous endothelial cell-seeded vascular graft.
Perinatal outcome following fetal chest shunt insertion for pleural effusion
Authors: Yinon Y. , Grisaru‐Granovsky S. , Chaddha V. , Windrim R. , Seaward P. G. R. , Kelly E. N. , Beresovska O. , Ryan G.
Published: December 2009

Objective

To evaluate perinatal outcome of fetuses with primary pleural effusions following pleuroamniotic shunting.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 88 fetuses with large pleural effusions referred to a tertiary fetal medicine unit between 1991 and 2008 which, after a thorough work‐up, underwent pleuroamniotic shunting.

Results

At presentation, 59 (67.0%) fetuses were hydropic and 67 (76.1%) had bilateral effusions. In 17 (19.3%) fetuses, pleural fluid was aspirated prior to shunting and in 71 (80.7%), shunts were inserted directly as the first procedure. Mean gestational age at shunting was 27.6 (range, 18–37) weeks and at delivery 34.2 (range, 19–42) weeks. Seventy‐four (84.1%) babies were born alive, of whom 52 (70.3%) survived the neonatal period. Of 59 hydropic fetuses, 10 (16.9%) died @ in utero and 18 neonates (30.5%) died, resulting in perinatal survival of 52.5%, whereas of 29 non‐hydropic fetuses, perinatal survival was 72.4%. Hydrops resolved following shunting in 28 fetuses, of whom 71% survived, compared to 35% survival in 31 fetuses where hydrops persisted (P = 0.006). Of 22 neonatal deaths, seven were related to pulmonary hypoplasia, five to genetic syndromes, two to aneuploidy and one to a congenital anomaly (truncus arteriosus). Overall 13 (14.8%) were diagnosed with a chromosomal, genetic or other condition, several of which could not have been diagnosed antenatally.

Conclusion

Carefully selected fetuses with primary pleural effusions can benefit from pleuroamniotic shunting, allowing hydrops to resolve with a survival rate of almost 60%. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetic resonance imaging in the prenatal diagnosis of congenital diarrhea
Authors: Colombani M. , Ferry M. , Toga C. , Lacroze V. , Rubesova E. , Barth R. A. , Cassart M. , Gorincour G.
Published: December 2009

Objective

Congenital diarrhea is very rare, and postnatal diagnosis is often made once the condition has caused potentially lethal fluid loss and electrolyte disorders. Prenatal detection is important to improve the immediate neonatal prognosis. We aimed to describe the prenatal ultrasound and magnetic resonance (MRI) imaging findings in fetuses with congenital diarrhea.

Methods

The study reports the pre‐ and postnatal findings in four fetuses that presented with generalized bowel dilatation and polyhydramnios. We analyzed the fetal ultrasound and MRI examinations jointly, then compared our provisional diagnosis with the amniotic fluid biochemistry and subsequently with the neonatal stool characteristics.

Results

In each of the four cases an ultrasound examination between 22 and 30 weeks' gestation showed moderate generalized bowel dilatation and polyhydramnios suggesting intestinal obstruction. MRI examinations performed between 24 and 32 weeks' gestation confirmed that the dilatation was of gastrointestinal (GI) origin, with a signal indicating intraluminal water visible throughout the small bowel and colon. The expected hypersignal on T1‐weighted sequences characteristic of physiological meconium was absent in the colon and rectum. This suggested that the meconium had been completely diluted and flushed out by the water content of the bowel. The constellation of MRI findings enabled a prenatal diagnosis of congenital diarrhea. The perinatal lab test findings revealed two cases of chloride diarrhea and two of sodium diarrhea.

Conclusion

Congenital diarrhea may be misdiagnosed as intestinal obstruction on prenatal ultrasound but has characteristic findings on prenatal MRI enabling accurate diagnosis; this is important for optimal neonatal management. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A case of restrictive cardiomyopathy presenting in fetal life with an isolated pericardial effusion
Authors: Sekar P. , Hornberger L. K. , Smallhorn J. S.
Published: December 2009

We describe the evolution during pregnancy of a case of restrictive cardiomyopathy which first presented at 22 weeks' gestation with a large pericardial effusion. Measurements of cardiac function were normal and remained near normal until late in the third trimester, when pulsed and tissue Doppler data suggested impairment in ventricular relaxation. This disease progressed in postnatal life to symptomatic restrictive cardiomyopathy by 2 years of age necessitating cardiac transplant. To our knowledge, this is the first time this unusual association has been reported. Copyright © 2010 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal ultrasound in the prediction of bowel obstruction in infants with gastroschisis
Authors: Contro E. , Fratelli N. , Okoye B. , Papageorghiou A. , Thilaganathan B. , Bhide A.
Published: December 2009

Objective

To assess the value of prenatal ultrasound in predicting bowel obstruction requiring surgery in fetuses with prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis.

Methods

The database of our center was searched for cases with an antenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis. The ultrasound images were reviewed blindly to assess the presence of intra‐ or extra‐abdominal bowel dilatation. Details of surgical procedures were noted and the discharge letters were obtained. Pediatric follow‐up was also obtained from pediatric surgeons, general practitioners or parents.

Results

In the 10‐year period between November 1998 and September 2008 there were 62 cases with a prenatal diagnosis of gastroschisis. Postnatal outcome was not available for five cases, four pregnancies underwent termination and intrauterine fetal demise occurred in five cases. A final population of 48 liveborn infants was available for analysis. Intra‐abdominal bowel dilatation was identified in 14 of these 48 fetuses (29.2%) and extra‐abdominal bowel dilatation in 30 (62.5%) fetuses on prenatal ultrasound images. Eight fetuses (16.7%) had bowel obstruction. The relative risk of bowel obstruction with intra‐abdominal bowel dilatation was 4.05 (95% CI, 1.12–14.70). On the other hand, the relative risk of bowel obstruction with extra‐abdominal bowel dilatation was 1.0 (95% CI, 0.37–3.70). Four babies died, two of whom had intra‐ and one had extra‐abdominal bowel dilatation.

Conclusions

Intra‐abdominal dilatation of the bowel on prenatal ultrasound examination appears to predict postnatal bowel obstruction and the need for surgical resection. Extra‐abdominal bowel dilatation is observed frequently on prenatal ultrasound scans, but is not predictive of bowel obstruction. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.