bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of five techniques of skin prick tests used routinely in Europe
Authors: Masse M. S. , Granger Vallée A. , Chiriac A. , Dhivert‐Donnadieu H. , Bousquet‐Rouanet L. , Bousquet P.‐J. , Demoly P.
Published: July 2011

To cite this article: Masse MS, Granger Vallée A, Chiriac A, Dhivert‐Donnadieu H, Bousquet‐Rouanet L, Bousquet P‐J, Demoly P. Comparison of five techniques of skin prick tests used routinely in Europe. Allergy 2011; 66: 1415–1419.

Background:  Skin prick tests represent indispensable tools in allergy, even more than 30 years after their introduction in clinical practice.

Objectives:  Few recent European studies have focused on this topic and we thus wanted to compare the instruments most often used today.

Methods:  Four instruments were investigated: the 23G intravenous (IV) needle, the ALK Lancet, the Stallergenes (STG) Prick Lancet and the Stallerpoint® (using two different methods). Sensitivity, reproducibility, and acceptability were evaluated. In 22 subjects, we calculated the sensitivity and reproducibility (both intra‐ and interpatient) of these methods by testing the positive control five times. In 50 subjects, we tested the single‐blind acceptability of these same five techniques.

Results:  In terms of sensitivity, the IV needle (100%) and metal lancets (96% for the ALK Lancet and 98% for the STG Prick Lancet) were superior (P < 0.01) to the two Stallerpoint® methods (20% and 57%). Intrapatient reproducibility was 16.2%, 14.6%, 15.0%, 97.1% and 18.1%, respectively. The instruments that were best tolerated by the patients were the IV needle and the two metal lancets.

Conclusion:  Metal needles and/or lancets are the tools of choice for skin prick testing.
Corpus callosum abnormalities, intellectual disability, speech impairment, and autism in patients with haploinsufficiency of ARID1B
Authors: Halgren C , Kjaergaard S , Bak M , Hansen C , El‐Schich Z , Anderson CM , Henriksen KF , Hjalgrim H , Kirchhoff M , Bijlsma EK , Nielsen M , den Hollander NS , Ruivenkamp CAL , Isidor B , Le Caignec C , Zannolli R , Mucciolo M , Renieri A , Mari F , Anderlid B‐M , Andrieux J , Dieux A , Tommerup N , Bache I
Published: July 2011

Halgren C, Kjaergaard S, Bak M, Hansen C, El‐Schich Z, Anderson CM, Henriksen KF, Hjalgrim H, Kirchhoff M, Bijlsma EK, Nielsen M, den Hollander NS, Ruivenkamp CAL, Isidor B, Le Caignec C, Zannolli R, Mucciolo M, Renieri A, Mari F, Anderlid B‐M, Andrieux J, Dieux A, Tommerup N, Bache I. Corpus callosum abnormalities, intellectual disability, speech impairment, and autism in patients with haploinsufficiency of ARID1B.

Corpus callosum abnormalities are common brain malformations with a wide clinical spectrum ranging from severe intellectual disability to normal cognitive function. The etiology is expected to be genetic in as much as 30–50% of the cases, but the underlying genetic cause remains unknown in the majority of cases. By next‐generation mate‐pair sequencing we mapped the chromosomal breakpoints of a patient with a de novo balanced translocation, t(1;6)(p31;q25), agenesis of corpus callosum (CC), intellectual disability, severe speech impairment, and autism. The chromosome 6 breakpoint truncated ARID1B which was also truncated in a recently published translocation patient with a similar phenotype. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (Q‐PCR) data showed that a primer set proximal to the translocation showed increased expression of ARID1B, whereas primer sets spanning or distal to the translocation showed decreased expression in the patient relative to a non‐related control set. Phenotype–genotype comparison of the translocation patient to seven unpublished patients with various sized deletions encompassing ARID1B confirms that haploinsufficiency of ARID1B is associated with CC abnormalities, intellectual disability, severe speech impairment, and autism. Our findings emphasize that ARID1B is important in human brain development and function in general, and in the development of CC and in speech development in particular.
Favorable outcome of primary liver transplantation in children with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Romano Fabrizio , Stroppa Paola , Bravi Michela , Casotti Valeria , Lucianetti Alessandro , Guizzetti Michela , Sonzogni Aurelio , Colledan Michele , D’Antiga Lorenzo
Published: July 2011

Romano F, Stroppa P, Bravi M, Casotti V, Lucianetti A, Guizzetti M, Sonzogni A, Colledan M, D’Antiga L. Favorable outcome of primary liver transplantation in children with cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 573–579. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  The outcome of HCC after transplantation (OLT) in children is not well known. Unfavorable features based on adult reports may lead to contraindicate OLT even in children. We reviewed a cohort of children with cirrhosis and HCC to evaluate their outcome after primary transplantation. We considered children with cirrhosis and HCC who had a primary OLT. We retrospectively recorded demographic, medical and surgical features, and MC as predictors of outcome. Among 456 children transplanted in the last 15 yr, 10 (2%), median age at diagnosis 1.8 yr (range 0.5–7.2), had HCC in biliary atresia (3), BSEP deficiency (3), tyrosinemia type 1 (2), complications of choledocal cyst and glycogen storage disease type IV (1 each). At HCC discovery, median AFP was 2322 ng/mL (3–35 000), high or rising in 9/10 patients. Six patients were outside the MC. Median time on the waiting list was 38 days (1–152). Two patients died from early complications of OLT. In the other eight patients, there was no tumor recurrence after a median follow‐up of four yr. Children with cirrhosis may develop HCC at a very young age. The outcome appears excellent even outside MC. Primary liver transplantation is advisable for children with cirrhosis, HCC, and no extrahepatic disease.
Domestic cats convert [2H8]‐β‐carotene to [2H4]‐retinol following a single oral dose
Authors: Green A. S. , Tang G. , Lango J. , Klasing K. C. , Fascetti A. J.
Published: July 2011

Many animals convert β‐carotene to retinol to meet their vitamin A (VA) requirement. However, this pathway is inefficient in many carnivores. This study quantified the plasma response to a single oral dose of [2H8]‐β‐carotene in adult domestic cats, including measurement of [2H4]‐retinol derived from the dose. Cats were fed with either a control diet containing adequate VA (n = 5) or a VA‐devoid diet (n = 5) for 28 days. An oral dose of either 5 mg/kg body weight (BW) (n = 4) or 10 mg/kg BW (n = 6) of [2H8]‐β‐carotene was administered on day 28. Plasma samples were collected prior to dosing and at 6, 12, 24, 32, 48, 72, 120, 168 and 216 h post‐dose. Plasma retinoids and β‐carotene were measured using HPLC and [2H4]‐retinol by GC‐ECNCI‐MS (gas chromatography/electron capture negative chemical ionization/mass spectrometry). β‐carotene was undetectable in plasma prior to dosing. Post‐dose, mean peak plasma β‐carotene was 0.37 ± 0.06 nmol/ml at 9.0 ± 1.8 h following the dose, while [2H4]‐retinol peaked at 3.71 ± 0.69 pmol/ml at 55.2 ± 16.3 h. The ratio per cent of total area under the curve for [2H4]‐retinol compared with the β‐carotene response was 4.6 ± 2.6%. There was little effect of diet or dose on the β‐carotene or [2H4]‐retinol responses. The appearance of [2H4]‐retinol in plasma indicates that cats are capable of converting β‐carotene to active VA. Conversion efficiency was not calculated in this study, but it is likely inadequate to meet cats’ VA requirement without the inclusion of preformed VA in the diet.
Commentary: a different lens for working with affairs: using social constructionist and attachment theory
Authors: Reibstein Janet
Published: July 2011

A combined social constructivist and attachment theory approach can help in work with affairs. Using past empirical research, a case is made that vulnerability to affairs derives primarily from pressures on partnerships stemming from the dominant discourse of modern partnerships. This discourse exalts sharing and joining, subjugating the more common experience of couples that other meaningful relationships (including non‐sexual ones) augment and fill in gaps. Affairs may be seen as, perhaps misguided, attempts to address untenable goals of the dominant discourse. Concomitantly, attachment theory explains both the need to be in a variety of relationships, normally within a hierarchy (‘multiple attachments’) and also the extreme wounds attendant to the discovery of secret affairs. Using both these perspectives can be useful preceding attempts at forgiveness. It is argued that they help therapists to establish an empathic positioning toward both partners in the couple, rather than the moralistic one too frequently attendant in work with affairs.
Positive Intelligence Illusions: On the Relation Between Intellectual Self‐Enhancement and Psychological Adjustment
Authors: Dufner Michael , Denissen Jaap J. A. , van Zalk Maarten , Matthes Benjamin , Meeus Wim H. J. , van Aken Marcel A. G. , Sedikides Constantine
Published: July 2011

The relation between self‐enhancement and psychological adjustment has been debated for over 2 decades. This controversy is partly due to the variety of approaches implicated in the assessment of mainly self‐enhancement but also psychological adjustment. We adopted a face‐valid approach by statistically removing actual intellectual ability variance from self‐rated intellectual ability variance. Study 1 (N = 2,048), a concurrent Internet investigation, provided initial insight into the relation between intellectual self‐enhancement and psychological adjustment. Study 2 (N = 238), a longitudinal round‐robin investigation, allowed a closer examination of the dynamic processes underlying this relation. Self‐enhancement was positively linked to multiple indicators of intrapersonal and interpersonal adjustment, and predicted rank‐order increases in adjustment over time. The links between intellectual self‐enhancement and intrapersonal adjustment were mediated by self‐esteem. Finally, the interpersonal costs and benefits of self‐enhancement systematically varied depending on methodology.
Passion for a Cause, Passion for a Creed: On Ideological Passion, Identity Threat, and Extremism
Authors: Rip Blanka , Vallerand Robert J. , Lafrenière Marc‐André K.
Published: July 2011

Passion energizes and directs both peaceful and violent ideologically inspired movements. The type of ideological passion that underlies people's political or religious commitment was proposed to moderate the effect of social identity–threatening circumstances on their choice of activist tactics. Ideological passion was defined as a strong inclination toward a loved, valued, and self‐defining cause, ideology, or group in which people invest considerable time and energy. Harmonious ideological passion was expected to promote peaceful activism and nonviolence partly because it is anchored in a strong and secure sense of identity—one that facilitates nondefensiveness in identity‐threatening circumstances. Obsessive ideological passion, in contrast, was expected to engender hatred and aggressive extremism in identity‐threatening circumstances partly because it is anchored in a strong, but insecure, sense of identity. Results from 2 studies, conducted with nationalist activists (N = 114) and devout Muslims (N = 111), supported these hypotheses. Implications for the motivation/passion and intergroup literatures are discussed.
A Narrower Scope or a Clearer Lens for Personality? Examining Sources of Observers’ Advantages Over Self‐Reports for Predicting Performance
Authors: Connelly Brian S. , Hülsheger Ute R.
Published: July 2011

Emerging studies have shown that observers’ ratings of personality predict performance behaviors better than do self‐ratings. However, it is unclear whether these predictive advantages stem from (a) use of observers who have a frame of reference more closely aligned with the criterion (“narrower scope”) or (b) observers having greater accuracy than targets themselves (“clearer lens”). In a primary study of 291 raters of 97 targets, we found predictive advantages even when observers were personal acquaintances who knew targets only outside of the work context. Integrating these findings with previous meta‐analyses showed that colleagues’ unique perspectives did not predict incrementally beyond commonly held trait perceptions across all raters (except for Openness) and that self‐raters who overestimate their Agreeableness and Conscientiousness perform worse on the job. Broadly, our results suggest that observers have clearer lenses for viewing targets’ personality traits, and we discuss the theoretical implications of these findings for studying and measuring personality.
Is Low Anxiety Part of the Psychopathy Construct?
Authors: Visser Beth A. , Ashton Michael C. , Pozzebon Julie A.
Published: July 2011

Low anxiety has traditionally been considered a feature of psychopathy, but there has been mixed research support for this conceptualization. We investigated the PPI‐R‐SF Stress Immunity subscale (a measure of low anxiety) in relation to 2 widely used self‐report psychopathy scales in a sample of 346 undergraduate students. Results indicated that PPI‐R‐SF Stress Immunity was nearly unrelated to other indicators of psychopathy, showing a near‐zero loading on the common psychopathy factor defined jointly by the scales of the PPI‐R‐SF and SRP‐III. Stress Immunity also showed a pattern of personality and temperament correlates much different from those of other psychopathy subscales. Finally, Stress Immunity had a slight negative correlation with self‐reports of diverse antisocial acts. These results suggest that despite its historical importance in the conceptualization of psychopathy, low anxiety is likely not a core feature of psychopathy.
ONTOLOGY OR PHENOMENOLOGY? HOW THE LVAD CHALLENGES THE EUTHANASIA DEBATE
Authors: KRAEMER FELICITAS
Published: July 2011

This article deals with the euthanasia debate in light of new life‐sustaining technologies such as the left ventricular assist device (LVAD). The question arises: does the switching off of a LVAD by a doctor upon the request of a patient amount to active or passive euthanasia, i.e. to ‘killing’ or to ‘letting die’? The answer hinges on whether the device is to be regarded as a proper part of the patient's body or as something external. We usually regard the switching off of an internal device as killing, whereas the deactivation of an external device is seen as ‘letting die’. The case is notoriously difficult to decide for hybrid devices such as LVADs, which are partly inside and partly outside the patient's body. Additionally, on a methodological level, I will argue that the ‘ontological’ arguments from analogy given for both sides are problematic. Given the impasse facing the ontological arguments, complementary phenomenological arguments deserve closer inspection. In particular, we should consider whether phenomenologically the LVAD is perceived as a body part or as an external device. I will support the thesis that the deactivation of a LVAD is to be regarded as passive euthanasia if the device is not perceived by the patient as a part of the body proper.
REFOCUSING THE RESPONSIVENESS REQUIREMENT
Authors: SHAH SEEMA , WOLITZ REBECCA , EMANUEL EZEKIEL
Published: July 2011

Many guidelines for international research require that studies be responsive to host community health needs or health priorities. Although responsiveness possesses great intuitive and rhetorical appeal, existing conceptions are confusing and difficult to apply. Not only are there few examples of what research the responsiveness requirement permits and what it rejects, but its application can lead to contradictory results. Because of the practical difficulties in applying responsiveness and the danger that misapplying responsiveness could harm the interests of developing countries, we argue that responsiveness should be refocused in three ways: in terms of (1) who enforces it, (2) under what standard, and (3) in what cases. We conclude that responsiveness should be applied by host country officials at the policy level with the exercise of judgment when externally funded research threatens to displace scarce local resources.
CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTIONS IN PHARMACY PRACTICE IN GREAT BRITAIN
Authors: DEANS ZUZANA
Published: July 2011

Pharmacists who refuse to provide certain services or treatment for reasons of conscience have been criticized for failing to fulfil their professional obligations. Currently, individual pharmacists in Great Britain can withhold services or treatment for moral or religious reasons, provided they refer the patient to an alternative source. The most high‐profile cases have concerned the refusal to supply emergency hormonal contraception, which will serve as an example in this article.

I propose that the pharmacy profession's policy on conscientious objections should be altered slightly. Building on the work of Brock and Wicclair, I argue that conscientious refusals should be acceptable provided that the patient is informed of the service, the patient is redirected to an alternative source, the refusal does not cause an unreasonable burden to the patient, and the reasons for the refusal are based on the core values of the profession. Finally, I argue that a principled categorical refusal by an individual pharmacist is not morally permissible. I claim that, contrary to current practice, a pharmacist cannot legitimately claim universal exemption from providing a standard service, even if that service is available elsewhere.
Do the filarial lymphoedema patients’‘3 months recall’ on acute dermato‐lymphangio‐adenitis (ADLA) correlate with streptococcal serology?
Authors: De Britto L.J. , Das L.K.
Published: July 2011

Aim  The aim of this study was to know the correlation of patients’ 3 months recall on acute dermato‐lymphangio‐adenitis (ADLA) with anti‐streptolysin O (ASO) serology and its application as a tool to know the burden of ADLA in the community.

Methods  Fifty‐nine lymphoedema (LE) patients and 27 age matched controls were clinically assessed for LE and the occurrence of ADLA during the previous 3 months was obtained by recall. After obtaining the informed consent, 2 mL of venous blood sample was collected and ASO was quantified in Olympus AU400 auto‐analyzer.

Results  When the results were computed as two groups, controls and LE patients with no reported ADLA and LE patients with reported ADLA (by 3 months recall), the ASO positivity and ASO titre was significantly higher in the later group (P < 0.05). When the results were computed as three groups, controls with no reported ADLA, LE patients with no reported ADLA and LE patients with reported ADLA, the ASO titre was significantly higher in LE patients reported ADLA (P < 0.05).

Conclusion  As ASO was measured in post‐infection phase, we relied on the ASO titre for making conclusion. Patients’ 3 months recall on ADLA correlates with the ASO titre and therefore, it could be considered as a tool to measure the burden of ADLA in the community. Multicentre community‐based studies are needed to ascertain the findings.
Pharmacological rationale for the treatment of chronic urticaria with second‐generation non‐sedating antihistamines at higher‐than‐standard doses
Authors: Zuberbier T.
Published: July 2011

Chronic urticaria (CU) is a long‐lasting and distressing condition that impairs patient quality of life (QoL) by disrupting sleep and diminishing work/school productivity. Thus treatment should not only be safe and effective but also not add to this impairment or increase risks to health or safety. Non‐sedating second‐generation antihistamines, with their long duration of action, pharmacodynamic properties that allow once‐daily dosing and lack of drug–drug interactions and sedative effects, are the first‐line symptomatic treatment option, but some patients have no adequate response to standard doses of these medications. Other therapeutic approaches to refractory urticaria have been suggested but have been limited by sparse clinical data and/or significant adverse effect profiles. Although discouraged by treatment guidelines, sedating antihistamines are frequently prescribed for nighttime use when urticaria symptoms are severe as add‐on therapy to a non‐sedating antihistamine. However, their pronounced effects on rapid eye movement sleep and hangover negatively impact QoL, learning and performance, and limit their use for patients in occupations that require alertness. For patients who do not respond adequately to standard doses of non‐sedating second‐generation antihistamines, increasing the dose of non‐sedating antihistamines thus may represent the safest therapeutic approach. Given the fact that only few controlled studies have assessed the efficacy and safety of high‐dose non‐sedating antihistamines in CU, patient safety should be a key consideration when choosing a specific antihistamine.
Role of sodium/hydrogen exchanger isoform 1 in microglial activation and proinflammatory responses in ischemic brains
Authors: Shi Yejie , Chanana Vishal , Watters Jyoti J. , Ferrazzano Peter , Sun Dandan
Published: July 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 124–135.

Our recent study reveals that Na+/H+ exchanger isoform 1 (NHE‐1) mediates H+ extrusion during “respiratory bursting”, which is important for microglial activation. In the present study, we further investigated whether NHE‐1 plays a role in proinflammatory activation of microglia in vivo using a mouse model of transient focal cerebral ischemia and reperfusion (I/R). Activated microglial cells were identified by their expression of two microglial marker proteins (CD11b and Iba1) as well as by their transformation from a “ramified” to an “amoeboid” morphology. An immediate increase in activated microglial numbers was detected in the ipsilateral ischemic core area of NHE‐1+/+ brains at 1 hour (h) I/1 h R, which gradually decreased during 6–24 h I/R. This was followed by a sharp rise in microglial activation in the peri‐infarct area and an increase in proinflammatory cytokine formation at 3 day after I/R. Interestingly, HOE 642 (a potent NHE‐1 inhibitor) ‐treated or NHE‐1 heterozygous (NHE‐1+/−) mice exhibited less microglia activation, less NADPH oxidase activation, or a reduced proinflammatory response at 3–7 day after I/R. Blocking NHE‐1 activity also significantly decreased microglial phagocytosis in vitro. In contrast, astrogliosis formation in the peri‐infarct area was not affected by NHE‐1 inhibition. Taken together, our results demonstrate that NHE‐1 protein was abundantly expressed in activated microglia and astrocytes. NHE‐1 inhibition reduced microglial proinflammatory activation following ischemia.
Association of membrane rafts and postsynaptic density: proteomics, biochemical, and ultrastructural analyses
Authors: Suzuki Tatsuo , Zhang Jingping , Miyazawa Shoko , Liu Qian , Farzan Michael R. , Yao Wei‐Dong
Published: July 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 64–77.

Postsynaptic membrane rafts are believed to play important roles in synaptic signaling, plasticity, and maintenance. However, their molecular identities remain elusive. Further, how they interact with the well‐established signaling specialization, the postsynaptic density (PSD), is poorly understood. We previously detected a number of conventional PSD proteins in detergent‐resistant membranes (DRMs). Here, we have performed liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) analyses on postsynaptic membrane rafts and PSDs. Our comparative analysis identified an extensive overlap of protein components in the two structures. This overlapping could be explained, at least partly, by a physical association of the two structures. Meanwhile, a significant number of proteins displayed biased distributions to either rafts or PSDs, suggesting distinct roles for the two postsynaptic specializations. Using biochemical and electron microscopic methods, we directly detected membrane raft–PSD complexes. In vitro reconstitution experiments indicated that the formation of raft–PSD complexes was not because of the artificial reconstruction of once‐solubilized membrane components and PSD structures, supporting that these complexes occurred in vivo. Taking together, our results provide evidence that postsynaptic membrane rafts and PSDs may be physically associated. Such association could be important in postsynaptic signal integration, synaptic function, and maintenance.
Antioxidants as therapeutic agents for liver disease
Authors: Singal Ashwani K. , Jampana Sarat C. , Weinman Steven A.
Published: July 2011

Oxidative stress is commonly associated with a number of liver diseases and is thought to play a role in the pathogenesis of chronic hepatitis C, alcoholic liver disease, non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), haemochromatosis and Wilson's disease. Antioxidant therapy has thus been considered to have the possibility of beneficial effects in the management of these liver diseases. Despite this promise, antioxidants have produced mixed results in a number of clinical trials of efficacy. This review summarizes the results of clinical trials of antioxidants as sole or adjuvant therapy of chronic hepatitis C, alcoholic liver disease and non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Overall, the most promising results to date are for vitamin E therapy of NASH but some encouraging results have been obtained with antioxidant therapy of acute alcoholic hepatitis as well. Despite evidence for small reductions of serum alanine aminotransferase, there is as yet no convincing evidence that antioxidant therapy itself is beneficial to patients with chronic hepatitis C. Problems such as small sample size, short follow up duration, inadequate endpoints, failure to demonstrate tissue delivery and antioxidant efficacy, and heterogeneous nature of the ‘antioxidant’ compounds used have complicated interpretation of results of the clinical studies. These limitations and their implications for future trial design are discussed.
Substandard care in antepartum term stillbirths: prospective cohort study
Authors: EVERS ANNEMIEKE C.C. , NIKKELS PETER G.J. , BROUWERS HENS A.A. , BOON JANINE , van EGMOND‐LINDEN ANNEKE , HART CLAARTJE , SNUIF YVETTE S. , STERKEN‐HOOISMA SIETSKE , BRUINSE HEIN W. , KWEE ANNEKE
Published: July 2011

Objective. To assess substandard care factors in antepartum stillbirths at term. Design. Prospective cohort study. Setting. A region in the middle of the Netherlands covering 13% of the Dutch population. Population. Antepartum stillbirths (≥37 weeks) without congenital malformations. Methods. During a two‐year period, all antepartum term stillbirths were prospectively collected and audited by an expert panel. Main outcome measures. Substandard care factors. Results. During the study period, 37 735 normally formed infants were delivered ≥37 weeks of gestation. There were 60 antepartum stillbirths (1.59 per 1 000, 95%CI 1.19–1.99). Most stillbirths occurred during apparently uncomplicated pregnancies. Twenty‐one infants (35%) were small‐for‐gestational age but growth restriction was only suspected in 10 (47.6%) of these cases. Substandard care factors were identified in 21 (35%) cases. A relation between these factors and fetal demise was possible in nine (15%) and probable in seven (12%) of these cases. Inadequate management and recognition of suspected growth restriction (n=9) or hypertension (n=6) were the most common substandard care factors. Ten (16.7%) women felt none or decreased fetal movements for 24 hours or more before they consulted a doctor or midwife. Conclusion. Twenty‐seven percent of all stillbirths were possibly or probably avoidable. Special attention to the recognition and adequate management of suspected growth restriction and hypertension as well as guidelines about patient information and management of decreased fetal movements might result in a reduction of stillbirths in the Netherlands.
An Exo2 Derivative Affects ER and Golgi Morphology and Vacuolar Sorting in a Tissue‐Specific Manner in Arabidopsis
Authors: Sorieul Mathias , Langhans Markus , Guetzoyan Lucie , Hillmer Stefan , Clarkson Guy , Lord John Michael , Roberts Lynne M. , Robinson David G. , Spooner Robert A. , Frigerio Lorenzo
Published: July 2011

We screened a panel of compounds derived from Exo2—a drug that perturbs post‐Golgi compartments and trafficking in mammalian cells—for their effect on the secretory pathway in Arabidopsis root epidermal cells. While Exo2 and most related compounds had no significant effect, one Exo2 derivative, named LG8, induced severe morphological alterations in both the Golgi (at high concentrations) and the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). LG8 causes the ER to form foci of interconnecting tubules, which at the ultrastructural level appear similar to those previously reported in Arabidopsis roots after treatment with the herbicide oryzalin. In cotyledonary leaves, LG8 causes redistribution of a trans Golgi network (TGN) marker to the vacuole. LG8 affects the anterograde secretory pathway by inducing secretion of vacuolar cargo and preventing the brassinosteroid receptor BRI1 from reaching the plasma membrane. Uptake and arrival at the TGN of the endocytic marker FM4‐64 is not affected. Unlike the ADP ribosylation factor‐GTP exchange factor (ARF‐GEF) inhibitor brefeldin A (BFA), LG8 affects these post‐Golgi events without causing the formation of BFA bodies. Up to concentrations of 50 µm, the effects of LG8 are reversible.
Mitochondrial Cholesterol: A Connection Between Caveolin, Metabolism, and Disease
Authors: Bosch Marta , Marí Montserrat , Gross Steven P. , Fernández‐Checa José C. , Pol Albert
Published: July 2011

Caveolin (CAV) is an essential component of caveolae, cholesterol‐enriched invaginations of the plasma membrane of most mammalian cells. However, CAV is not restricted to plasma membrane caveolae, and pools of CAV are present in myriad intracellular membranes. CAV proteins tightly bind cholesterol and contribute to regulation of cholesterol fluxes and distributions within cells. In this context, we recently showed that CAV1 regulates the poorly understood process controlling mitochondrial cholesterol levels. Cholesterol accumulates in mitochondrial membranes in the absence of CAV1, promoting the organelle's dysfunction with important metabolic consequences for cells and animals. In this article, we suggest a working hypothesis that addresses the role of CAV1 within the homeostatic network that regulates the influx/efflux of mitochondrial cholesterol.
Prenatal diagnosis of a huge facial tumor: Report of a rare case and literature review
Authors: Sahinoglu Zeki , Ertekin Arif Aktug , Celayir Aysenur Cerrah , Gucluer Berrin
Published: July 2011

Neonatal tumors are reported to occur in approximately 17–121 per million live births worldwide. They are often diagnosed by ultrasonography after mid‐pregnancy. Teratomas are the most frequent solid neoplasms, accounting for between one‐quarter and one‐third of cases. Here, we describe the prenatal diagnosis of a fetal face teratoma located on the right temporal side at 26 weeks of gestation. Besides 2D and 4D ultrasound imaging, fetal magnetic resonance imaging provides substantial support in perinatal management and promotes the perception of fetal malformations by the family. Extreme intrauterine growth of the tumor with remarkable pressure to the surrounding facial structures and good perinatal prognosis following complete tumoral resection are reviewed.
Temperature Correction of UV Spectral Solar Measurements for ICEPURE Project
Authors: Baczynska Katarzyna , O’Hagan John B. , Pearson Andy J. , Eriksen Paul
Published: July 2011

UV solar spectra have been measured, using a double‐grating spectroradiometer, during population studies carried out across Europe for the EC Framework 7 funded ICEPURE project on the impact of climatic and environmental factors on personal UV radiation exposure and human health. Spectral field measurements have been conducted at ambient temperatures which varied between 11.5 and 33.5°C. This temperature variation might affect instrument performance. The effect of ambient temperature was quantified and verified, and a model for temperature correction of spectral data is presented.
The effect of bovine colostrum on viral upper respiratory tract infections in children with immunoglobulin A deficiency
Authors: Patıroğlu Türkan , Kondolot Meda
Published: July 2011

Introduction:  Immunoglobulin A (IgA)‐deficient patients predominantly suffer from respiratory and gastrointestinal infections since secretory IgA has important functions to protect mucosal surfaces.

Objective:  To evaluate the effect of bovine colostrum, rich in IgA, on the treatment of viral upper respiratory tract (URT) infections in IgA‐deficient children.

Methods:  Thirty‐one IgA‐deficient children with viral URT infections were included in this double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, and randomly oral bovine colostrum or placebo was given three times a day for 1 week. Samples of saliva IgA were collected before treatment, after the administration of the first dose, and after the last dose. Mothers of the children completed a daily questionnaire regarding the severity of the infection and any adverse effects.

Results:  The bovine colostrum group had a lower infection severity score than the placebo group after 1 week (respectively 0.81 ± 0.83, 3.00 ± 1.85; P = 0.000), but there was no difference between the salivary IgA levels of the groups.

Conclusion:  This is the first study to evaluate the effect of bovine colostrum in IgA‐deficient children, and no adverse effects were observed. However, further studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of bovine colostrum in IgA‐deficient patients.

Please cite this paper as: Patıroğlu T and Kondolot M. The effect of bovine colostrum on viral upper respiratory tract infections in children with immunoglobulin A deficiency. Clin Respir J 2013; 7: 21–26.
The effect of lateral decubitus position on intraocular pressure in healthy young subjects
Authors: Lee Jong Yeon , Yoo Chungkwon , Jung Jae Hoon , Hwang Young Hoon , Kim Yong Yeon
Published: July 2011

Purpose:  To investigate the effect of change of body posture from supine to lateral decubitus position (LDP) on intraocular pressure (IOP) in healthy young subjects.

Methods:  We evaluated 38 eyes of 19 healthy young Korean subjects. IOP was measured using Tonopen XL® in both eyes in the sitting and supine position, 5 and 30 min after right LDP and 5 min after returning to the supine position. A week later, IOP was measured in the same sequence except that the subjects assumed the left LDP. The eye on the lower side in the LDP was termed as a dependent eye.

Results:  The mean IOP of the dependent eyes increased significantly at 5 min after changing from supine to right (16.26 ± 2.73 mmHg versus 18.54 ± 2.95 mmHg, p < 0.01) or left LDP (15.53 ± 2.41 mmHg versus 17.53 ± 3.37 mmHg, p < 0.01); this IOP increase in the dependent eyes persisted at 30 min after changing to right (18.47 ± 2.97 mmHg, p < 0.01) or left LDP (17.79 ± 2.20 mmHg, p < 0.01). Upon returning to the supine position, IOP of the dependent eyes decreased significantly (16.83 ± 2.67 mmHg, p < 0.01 for right LDP and 16.47 ± 2.32 mmHg, p < 0.01 for left). However, this effect of the positional change was not found in the non‐dependent eyes (all, p > 0.05). Mean IOP in the dependent eye was significantly higher than that in the non‐dependent eye at 30 min after changing to the right (+0.89 ± 1.52 mmHg) or left LDP (+1.84 ± 2.03 mmHg).

Conclusion:  The postural change from supine to LDP significantly increased IOP of the dependent eyes.
Retinal blood flow in response to an intravitreal injection of ranibizumab for neovascular age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Micieli Jonathan A. , Tsui Edmund , Lam Wai‐Ching , Brent Michael H. , Devenyi Robert G. , Hudson Chris
Published: July 2011

Purpose:  To assess the hemodynamic response of retinal arterioles and venules following a single intravitreal injection of ranibizumab in neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (NV‐AMD) patients and to assess the influence of the number of prior injections on this response.

Methods:  Fifteen NV‐AMD patients were prospectively recruited and grouped according to the dosage of ranibizumab previously received. Group 1 NV‐AMD patients (n = 7) had previously received 1.50 mg or less, and group 2 patients (n = 8) had received more than 1.50 mg in the study eye. A group of 12 non‐NV AMD patients were also recruited for control comparison. Vessel diameter, centreline blood velocity and blood flow were assessed with the Canon Laser Blood Flowmeter immediately prior to an injection and at a mean follow‐up of 37.7 and 36.7 days for group 1 and group 2 patients, respectively.

Results:  The NV‐AMD patients as a whole and the group 1 cohort had a significantly greater arteriolar diameter at baseline than the non‐NV AMD patients. There was a significant reduction in arteriolar diameter, velocity and blood flow in group 1 but not in group 2 NV‐AMD patients at follow‐up. There was only an insignificant decrease in measured parameters of the retinal venules. At follow‐up, there was no difference in the diameter, velocity or flow between AMD patients.

Conclusion:  Intravitreal ranibizumab treatment for NV‐AMD induces a reduction in arteriolar diameter, velocity, and blood flow in patients who have received <1.50 mg of ranibizumab.
Morphology, phylogenetic position, and ecophysiology ofAlexandrium ostenfeldii(Dinophyceae) from the Bohai Sea, China
Authors: GU Haifeng
Published: July 2011

Abstract Alexandrium ostenfeldiiis a potentially toxic dinoflagellate that often occurs in coastal areas at high latitudes. Here we report the presence ofA. ostenfeldiiin the Bohai Sea, China, for the first time. The vegetative cells ofA. ostenfeldiiare characterized by a narrow first apical plate and a large ventral pore located on the anterior right side. Partial large subunit sequence comparison revealed that the Chinese strain differs from the Finnish strains at only three positions, and fromA. peruvianumof Spain at five positions. Maximum parsimony analysis revealed thatA. ostenfeldiifrom China and Finland andA. peruvianumfrom Spain grouped together. They were the nearest sister group to a clade withA. ostenfeldiifrom New Zealand, Europe, and North America. In culture, growth did not occur at temperatures below 9 °C and occurred at salinities between 7 and 27 psu. It took 10–20 days for newly formed cysts to mature at 20 °C. Lower temperature delayed germination, but the germination rate exceeded 90% at temperatures from 12 to 24 °C. No germination occurred below 9 °C after 1 month of incubation. The Chinese strain ofA. ostenfeldiiproduced neither spirolides nor paralytic shellfish poisoning toxins.
Lead Time and Price Quotation Mode Selection: Uniform or Differentiated?
Authors: Zhao Xuying , Stecke Kathryn E. , Prasad Ashutosh
Published: July 2011

Firms in service and make‐to‐order manufacturing industries often quote lead times and prices to customers. We define uniform quotation mode (UQM) as the strategy where a firm offers a single lead time and price quotation, and differentiated quotation mode (DQM) is where a firm offers a menu of lead times and prices for customers to choose from. Both modes are followed in practice. Firms should determine which is more profitable. We classify customers into two groups: lead time sensitive (LS) and price sensitive (PS). LS customers value lead time reduction more than PS customers. We develop mathematical models of both quotation modes and analyze them to determine the most profitable mode under specified situations as well as the best lead time and price quotations within each mode. We find that DQM is dominated by UQM whenever PS customers have positive utilities from UQM or LS customers have positive utilities from DQM. Otherwise, which quotation mode is better depends on multiple factors, such as customer characteristics (including lead time reduction valuation and product valuation of a customer, and the proportion of LS customers) and production characteristics (including the desired service level and service or production cost).
Springer theory via the Hitchin fibration
Authors: Nadler David
Published: July 2011

We develop the Springer theory of Weyl group representations in the language of symplectic topology. Given a semisimple complex group G, we describe a Lagrangian brane in the cotangent bundle of the adjoint quotient 𝔤/G that produces the perverse sheaves of Springer theory. The main technical tool is an analysis of the Fourier transform for constructible sheaves from the perspective of the Fukaya category. Our results can be viewed as a toy model of the quantization of Hitchin fibers in the geometric Langlands program.
Similarities and Differences Between the Flow Factor Method by Patir and Cheng and Homogenization
Authors: Almqvist Andreas , Fabricius John , Spencer Andrew , Wall Peter
Published: July 2011

Different averaging techniques have proved to be useful for analyzing the effects of surface roughness in hydrodynamic lubrication. This paper compares two of these averaging techniques, namely the flow factor method by Patir and Cheng (P&C) and homogenization. It has been rigorously proved by many authors that the homogenization method provides a correct solution for arbitrary roughness. In this work it is shown that the two methods coincide if and only if the roughness exhibits certain symmetries. Hence, homogenization is always the preferred method.
Effect of Nano-Enhanced Lubricant in Minimum Quantity Lubrication Balling Milling
Authors: Park Kyung-Hee , Ewald Brent , Kwon Patrick Y.
Published: July 2011

Minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) has been used as an alternative solution for flood cooling as well as dry machining. However, the benefit of MQL is only realized in mild machining conditions as the heat generation during more aggressive machining conditions cannot be effectively eliminated by the small amount of oil mist being applied during MQL process. To extend the applicability of MQL to more aggressive machining conditions, we have developed a potential additive to MQL lubricant. After the preliminary wetting angle measurement of the various lubricants, one commercially available MQL vegetable oil was chosen, which is then mixed in a high-speed mixer with exfoliated nanographene particles. The resulting nanoenhanced MQL lubricant was evaluated for its tribological and machining behaviors together with the suspension stability of the mixture. Friction coefficients of new nanoenhanced MQL oil were also measured in terms of loads, speeds and lubricants. Finally, MQL-ball milling tests with nanographene enhanced lubricant were performed to show a remarkable performance improvement in reducing both central wear and flank wear as well as edge chipping at cutting edge.
Comparison of sinogram‐ and image‐domain penalized‐likelihood image reconstruction estimators
Authors: Vargas Phillip A. , La Rivière Patrick J.
Published: July 2011

Purpose:

In recent years, the authors and others have been exploring the use of penalized‐likelihood sinogram‐domain smoothing and restoration approaches for emission and transmission tomography. The motivation for this strategy was initially pragmatic: to provide a more computationally feasible alternative to fully iterative penalized‐likelihood image reconstruction involving expensive backprojections and reprojections, while still obtaining some of the benefits of the statistical modeling employed in penalized‐likelihood approaches. In this work, the authors seek to compare the two approaches in greater detail.

Methods:

The sinogram‐domain strategy entails estimating the “ideal” line integrals needed for reconstruction of an activity or attenuation distribution from the set of noisy, potentially degraded tomographic measurements by maximizing a penalized‐likelihood objective function. The objective function models the data statistics as well as any degradation that can be represented in the sinogram domain. The estimated line integrals can then be input to analytic reconstruction algorithms such as filtered backprojection (FBP). The authors compare this to fully iterative approaches maximizing similar objective functions.

Results:

The authors present mathematical analyses based on so‐called equivalent optimization problems that establish that the approaches can be made precisely equivalent under certain restrictive conditions. More significantly, by use of resolution‐variance tradeoff studies, the authors show that they can yield very similar performance under more relaxed, realistic conditions.

Conclusions:

The sinogram‐ and image‐domain approaches are equivalent under certain restrictive conditions and can perform very similarly under more relaxed conditions. The match is particularly good for fully sampled, high‐resolution CT geometries. One limitation of the sinogram‐domain approach relative to the image‐domain approach is the difficulty of imposing additional constraints, such as image non‐negativity.
Precision grid and hand motion for accurate needle insertion in brachytherapy
Authors: McGill Carl S. , Schwartz Jonathon A. , Moore Jason Z. , McLaughlin Patrick W. , Shih Albert J.
Published: July 2011

Purpose:

In prostate brachytherapy, a grid is used to guide a needle tip toward a preplanned location within the tissue. During insertion, the needle deflects en route resulting in target misplacement. In this paper, 18‐gauge needle insertion experiments into phantom were performed to test effects of three parameters, which include the clearance between the grid hole and needle, the thickness of the grid, and the needle insertion speed. Measurement apparatus that consisted of two datum surfaces and digital depth gauge was developed to quantify needle deflections.

Methods:

The gauge repeatability and reproducibility (GR&R) test was performed on the measurement apparatus, and it proved to be capable of measuring a 2 mm tolerance from the target. Replicated experiments were performed on a 23 factorial design (three parameters at two levels) and analysis included averages and standard deviation along with an analysis of variance (ANOVA) to find significant single and two‐way interaction factors.

Results:

Results showed that grid with tight clearance hole and slow needle speed increased precision and accuracy of needle insertion. The tight grid was vital to enhance precision and accuracy of needle insertion for both slow and fast insertion speed; additionally, at slow speed the tight, thick grid improved needle precision and accuracy.

Conclusions:

In summary, the tight grid is important, regardless of speed. The grid design, which shows the capability to reduce the needle deflection in brachytherapy procedures, can potentially be implemented in the brachytherapy procedure.