bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic Ultrasound Combined With Glycoprotein IIb/IIIa–Targeted Microbubbles Improves Microvascular Recovery After Acute Coronary Thrombotic Occlusions
Authors: Xie Feng , Lof John , Matsunaga Terry , Zutshi Reena , Porter Thomas R.
Published: March 2009

Background—

The high mechanical index (MI) impulses from a diagnostic ultrasound transducer may be a method of recanalizing acutely thrombosed vessels if the impulses are applied only when microbubbles are channeling through the thrombus.

Methods and Results—

In 45 pigs with acute left anterior descending thrombotic occlusions, a low-MI pulse sequence scheme (contrast pulse sequencing) was used to image the myocardium and guide the delivery of high-MI (1.9 MI) impulses during infusion of either intravenous platelet-targeted microbubbles or nontargeted microbubbles. A third group received no diagnostic ultrasound and microbubbles. All groups received half-dose recombinant prourokinase, heparin, and aspirin. Contrast pulse sequencing examined replenishment of contrast within the central portion of the risk area and guided the application of high-MI impulses. Angiographic recanalization rates, resolution of ST-segment elevation on ECG, and wall thickening were analyzed. Pigs receiving platelet-targeted microbubbles had more rapid replenishment of the central portion of the risk area (80% versus 40% for nontargeted microbubbles;
P
=0.03) and higher epicardial recanalization rates (53% versus 7% for prourokinase alone;
P
=0.01). Replenishment of contrast within the risk area (whether with platelet-targeted microbubbles or nontargeted microbubbles) was associated with both higher recanalization rates and even higher rates of ST-segment resolution (82% versus 21% for prourokinase alone;
P
=0.006). ST-segment resolution occurred in 6 pigs (40%) treated with microbubbles who did not have epicardial recanalization, of which 5 had recovery of wall thickening.

Conclusions—

Intravenous platelet-targeted microbubbles combined with brief high-MI diagnostic ultrasound impulses guided by contrast pulse sequencing improve both epicardial recanalization rates and microvascular recovery.
Interleukin-17 and Interferon-γ Are Produced Concomitantly by Human Coronary Artery–Infiltrating T Cells and Act Synergistically on Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Eid Raymond E. , Rao Deepak A. , Zhou Jing , Lo Sheng-fu L. , Ranjbaran Hooman , Gallo Amy , Sokol Seth I. , Pfau Steven , Pober Jordan S. , Tellides George
Published: March 2009

Background—

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease in which interferon (IFN)-γ, the signature cytokine of Th1 cells, plays a central role. We investigated whether interleukin (IL)-17, the signature cytokine of Th17 cells, is also associated with human coronary atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

Circulating IL-17 and IFN-γ were detected in a subset of patients with coronary atherosclerosis and in referent outpatients of similar age without cardiac disease but not in young healthy individuals. IL-17 plasma levels correlated closely with those of the IL-12/IFN-γ/CXCL10 cytokine axis but not with known Th17 inducers such as IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-23. Both IL-17 and IFN-γ were produced at higher levels by T cells within cultured atherosclerotic coronary arteries after polyclonal activation than within nondiseased vessels. Combinations of proinflammatory cytokines induced IFN-γ but not IL-17 secretion. Blockade of IFN-γ signaling increased IL-17 synthesis, whereas neutralization of IL-17 responses decreased IFN-γ synthesis; production of both cytokines was inhibited by transforming growth factor-β1. Approximately 10-fold fewer coronary artery–infiltrating T helper cells were IL-17 producers than IFN-γ producers, and unexpectedly, IL-17/IFN-γ double producers were readily detectable within the artery wall. Although IL-17 did not modulate the growth or survival of cultured vascular smooth muscle cells, IL-17 interacted cooperatively with IFN-γ to enhance IL-6, CXCL8, and CXCL10 secretion.

Conclusions—

Our findings demonstrate that IL-17 is produced concomitantly with IFN-γ by coronary artery–infiltrating T cells and that these cytokines act synergistically to induce proinflammatory responses in vascular smooth muscle cells.
Epistatic Genetic Determinants of Blood Pressure and Mortality in a Salt-Sensitive Hypertension Model
Authors: Cicila George T. , Morgan Eric E. , Lee Soon Jin , Farms Phyllis , Yerga-Woolwine Shane , Toland Edward J. , Ramdath Ramona S. , Gopalakrishnan Kathirvel , Bohman Keith , Nestor-Kalinoski Andrea L. , Khuder Sadik A. , Joe Bina
Published: March 2009

Although genetic determinants protecting against the development of elevated blood pressure (BP) are well investigated, less is known regarding their impact on longevity. We concomitantly assessed genomic regions of rat chromosomes 3 and 7 (RNO3 and RNO7) carrying genetic determinants of BP without known epistasis, for their independent and combinatorial effects on BP and the presence of genetic determinants of survival using Dahl salt-sensitive (S) strains carrying congenic segments from Dahl salt-resistant (R) rats. Although congenic and bicongenic S.R strains carried independent BP quantitative trait loci within the RNO3 and RNO7 congenic regions, only the RNO3 allele(s) independently affected survival. The bicongenic S.R strain showed epistasis between R-rat RNO3 and RNO7 alleles for BP under salt-loading conditions, with less-than-additive effects observed on a 2% NaCl diet and greater-than-additive effects observed after prolonged feeding on a 4% NaCl diet. These RNO3 and RNO7 congenic region alleles had more-than-additive effects on survival. Increased survival of bicongenic compared with RNO3 congenic rats was attributable, in part, to maintaining lower BP despite chronic exposure to an increased dietary salt (4% NaCl) intake, with both strains showing delays in reaching highest BP. R-rat RNO3 alleles were also associated with superior systolic function, with the S.R bicongenic strain showing epistasis between R-rat RNO3 and RNO7 alleles leading to compensatory hypertrophy. Whether these alleles affect survival by additional actions within other BP-regulating tissues/organs remains unexplored. This is the first report of simultaneous detection of independent and epistatic loci dictating, in part, longevity in a hypertensive rat strain.
Exercise Training Alters Left Ventricular Geometry and Attenuates Heart Failure in Dahl Salt-Sensitive Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Miyachi Masaaki , Yazawa Hiroki , Furukawa Mayuko , Tsuboi Koji , Ohtake Masafumi , Nishizawa Takao , Hashimoto Katsunori , Yokoi Toyoharu , Kojima Tetsuhito , Murate Takashi , Yokota Mitsuhiro , Murohara Toyoaki , Koike Yasuo , Nagata Kohzo
Published: March 2009

The clinical efficacy of exercise training in individuals with heart failure is well established, but the mechanism underlying such efficacy has remained unclear. An imbalance between cardiac hypertrophy and angiogenesis is implicated in the transition to heart failure. We investigated the effects of exercise training on cardiac pathophysiology in hypertensive rats. Dahl salt-sensitive rats fed a high-salt diet from 6 weeks of age were assigned to sedentary or exercise (swimming)-trained groups at 9 weeks. Exercise training attenuated the development of heart failure and increased survival, without affecting blood pressure, at 18 weeks. It also attenuated left ventricular concentricity without a reduction in left ventricular mass or impairment of cardiac function. Interstitial fibrosis was increased and myocardial capillary density was decreased in the heart of sedentary rats, and these effects were attenuated by exercise. Exercise potentiated increases in the phosphorylation of Akt and mammalian target of rapamycin observed in the heart of sedentary rats, whereas it inhibited the downregulation of proangiogenic gene expression apparent in these animals. The abundance of the p110α isoform of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase was decreased, whereas those of the p110γ isoform of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase were increased, in the heart of sedentary rats, and all of these effects were prevented by exercise. Thus, exercise training had a beneficial effect on cardiac remodeling and attenuated heart failure in hypertensive rats, with these effects likely being attributable to the attenuation of left ventricular concentricity and restoration of coronary angiogenesis through activation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(p110α)-Akt-mammalian target of rapamycin signaling.
Cardiovascular Regulation During Apnea in Elite Divers
Authors: Heusser Karsten , Dzamonja Gordan , Tank Jens , Palada Ivan , Valic Zoran , Bakovic Darija , Obad Ante , Ivancev Vladimir , Breskovic Toni , Diedrich André , Joyner Michael J. , Luft Friedrich C. , Jordan Jens , Dujic Zeljko
Published: March 2009

Involuntary apnea during sleep elicits sustained arterial hypertension through sympathetic activation; however, little is known about voluntary apnea, particularly in elite athletes. Their physiological adjustments are largely unknown. We measured blood pressure, heart rate, hemoglobin oxygen saturation, muscle sympathetic nerve activity, and vascular resistance before and during maximal end-inspiratory breath holds in 20 elite divers and in 15 matched control subjects. At baseline, arterial pressure and heart rate were similar in both groups. Maximal apnea time was longer in divers (1.7±0.4 versus 3.9±1.1 minutes;
P
<0.0001), and it was accompanied by marked oxygen desaturation (97.6±0.7% versus 77.6±13.9%;
P
<0.0001). At the end of apnea, divers showed a >5-fold greater muscle sympathetic nerve activity increase (
P
<0.01) with a massively increased pressor response compared with control subjects (9±5 versus 32±15 mm Hg;
P
<0.001). Vascular resistance increased in both groups, but more so in divers (79±46% versus 140±82%;
P
<0.01). Heart rate did not change in either group. The rise in muscle sympathetic nerve activity correlated with oxygen desaturation (
r
2
=0.26;
P
<0.01) and with the increase in mean arterial pressure (
r
2
=0.40;
P
<0.0001). In elite divers, breath holds for several minutes result in an excessive chemoreflex activation of sympathetic vasoconstrictor activity. Extensive sympathetically mediated peripheral vasoconstriction may help to maintain adequate oxygen supply to vital organs under asphyxic conditions that untrained subjects are not able to tolerate voluntarily. Our results are relevant to conditions featuring periodic apnea.
Creating and Sustaining Successful Mixed-Income Communities
Authors: Joseph Mark , Feldman Jessica
Published: March 2009

This article examines the theory and evidence behind the increased policy and scholarly interest in the role that schools might play in promoting neighborhood revitalization, focuses on the extent to which schools might be a key component in the growing efforts across the country to address urban poverty by creating and sustaining mixed-income neighborhoods, identifies five channels through which investment in high-quality public schools might help facilitate the types of neighborhood- and individual-level outcomes sought through mixed-income development, explores the theoretical arguments behind these pathways, and draws on research to assess the potential value of each. The article concludes that schools can play unique roles as amenities, local resources, and forums for interaction and collective action, but leveraging that potential value for the benefit of everyone, including those in poverty, will require impeding real estate market forces and surmounting differences in parental school expectations and engagement associated with socioeconomic status.
Working Memory, Short-Term Memory, and Reading Disabilities
Authors: Swanson H. Lee , Xinhua Zheng  , Jerman Olga
Published: March 2009

The purpose of the present study was to synthesize research that compares children with and without reading disabilities (RD) on measures of short-term memory (STM) and working memory (WM). Across a broad age, reading, and IQ range, 578 effect sizes (ESs) were computed, yielding a mean ES across studies of —.89 ( SD = 1.03). A total of 257 ESs were in the moderate range for STM measures ( M = —.61, 95% confidence range of —.65 to —.58), and 320 ESs were in the moderate range for WM measures ( M = —.67, 95% confidence range of —.68 to —.64). The results indicated that children with RD were distinctively disadvantaged compared with average readers on (a) STM measures requiring the recall of phonemes and digit sequences and (b) WM measures requiring the simultaneous processing and storage of digits within sentence sequences and final words from unrelated sentences. No significant moderating effects emerged for age, IQ, or reading level on memory ESs. The findings indicated that domain-specific STM and WM differences between ability groups persisted across age, suggesting that a verbal deficit model that fails to efficiently draw resources from both a phonological and executive system underlies RD.
Aflatoxin B1 and/or Hepatitis B Virus Induced Tumor Spectrum in a Genetically Engineered Hepatitis B Virus Expression and Trp53 Haploinsufficient Mouse Model System for Hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Cullen John M. , Brown Danielle L. , Kissling Grace E. , Foley Julie F. , Rizzo Jennifer , Marion Patricia L. , Parron Vandy I. , French John E.
Published: March 2009

The authors investigated the spectrum of tumors and Trp53 mutations in genetically engineered models using the FVB/N mouse that expressed the hepatitis B virus genome and/or carried a Trp53 null and wildtype allele and/or were exposed to aflatoxin B1. Liver tumor incidence was increased when all three risk factors were present. Without aflatoxin B1 exposure, neither Trp53 haploinsufficiency nor HBV expression affected liver tumor development. Liver tumor prevalence increased with aflatoxin B1 exposure ( p < .001), as thirteen of fourteen mice with liver tumors were initiated with aflatoxin B1. Liver tumors were more frequent in males (12/190) than females (2/170). Seventy-three mice developed sarcomas. Trp53 haploinsufficiency was associated with increased sarcoma incidence in males and females ( p < .001). In Trp53 haploinsufficient mice, the HBV transgene increased the risk of sarcoma in males and females ( p < .001). Lymphoma was significantly increased in Trp53 haploinsufficient FVB/N mice. There was no loss of heterozygosity at the wildtype Trp53 locus in twenty-five sarcomas or four hepatocellular tumors examined. No mutations were identified in the mRNA (exons 2–11) of Trp53 in six liver neoplasms or twenty-four sarcomas. In this model system, HBV expression affected only hepatocellular neoplasia in association with both aflatoxin B1 initiation and p53 haploinsufficiency.
Unusual Radiological Presentation of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex With Leptomeningeal Angiomatosis Associated With a Hypomorphic Mutation in the TSC2 Gene
Authors: Ramantani Georgia , Niggemann Pascal , Hahn Gabriele , Näke Andrea , Fahsold Raimund , Lee-Kirsch Min Ae
Published: March 2009

Tuberous sclerosis complex is an autosomal dominant disorder affecting primarily the central nervous system, skin, and kidney caused by mutations in the TSC1 and TSC2 genes. Diagnosis is established with the identification of various neurocutaneous symptoms and multiple organ system hamartomas. The authors report on a 9-year-old patient with episodes of vertigo and headache followed by full spontaneous recovery. There was no history of seizures, mental retardation, or other neurologic sequelae, and psychomotor development was normal. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed pial angiomatosis of the left cerebellum and calcifications in the left parieto-occipital lobe consistent with the diagnosis of Sturge-Weber syndrome. At the age of 13, multiple renal angiomyolipomas and a single hypomelanotic macule were found, and subsequent imaging revealed several cortical tuberi. The diagnosis was confirmed by sequence analysis, which identified a novel missense mutation p.Ala460Thr in exon 13 of the TSC2 gene. Thus, mild tuberous sclerosis due to a hypomorphic mutation in TSC2 may present with isolated leptomeningeal angiomatosis.
Intrarater and Interrater Reliability of Myotonometer Measurements of Muscle Tone in Children
Authors: Lidström Åsa , Ahlsten Gunnar , Hirchfeld Helga , Norrlin Simone
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study was to investigate reliability of Myotonometer measurements, by assessing muscle tone in muscle rectus femoris in children with cerebral palsy and children without disabilities. Differences in muscle tone between groups and conditions, contracted or relaxed, were also investigated. A total of 15 children with cerebral palsy and 15 children without disabilities participated. Intrarater reliability of Myotonometer measurements showed high to very high intraclass correlation, under both conditions and in both groups. Interrater reliability showed high to very high intraclass correlation under both conditions in the control group and in the cerebral palsy group under contracted condition and moderate under relaxed condition. There were slight differences in tissue displacement between groups, although not statistically significant. Myotonometer measurements are reliable when assessing muscle tone in children. However, there is still a need to investigate this method for objectively quantifying increased muscle tone in children with cerebral palsy.
Experimental Neuronal Migration Disorders Following the Administration of Ibotenate in Hamsters: The Role of the Subventricular Zone in the Development of Cortical Dysplasia
Authors: Sawai Chihiro , Takano Tomoyuki , Takeuchi Yoshihiro
Published: March 2009

To examine the role of subventricular zone in cortical dysplasia, an experimental model was established using a neuronal tracing study. Ibotenate is a glutamate receptor agonist, and its intracerebral injection produces excitotoxic lesions mimicking microgyria and heterotopia. A total of 72 newborn hamsters were subjected. Biotinylated dextran amine was injected into the ganglionic eminence for the neuronal tracer. The cortical lesions and apoptotic cells were analyzed. In the microgyric cortex, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated 2' -deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate–biotin end labeling–positive cells were increased and accumulated in the cortical folding. Biotinylated dextran amine–positive cells and fibers were derived from the dorsolateral subventricular zone and directed toward the cortical folding. In the heterotopic cortex, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated 2'-deoxyuridine 5'-triphosphate– biotin end labeling–positive cells were distributed around the heterotopia, but number of cells was not remarkable. Our findings suggest that the subventricular zone plays an important role in the formation of cortical dysplasia, especially in the microgyria, after excitatory neuronal injury.
Acute Transverse Myelitis and Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis in Childhood: Spectrum or Separate Entities?
Authors: Yiu Eppie M. , Kornberg Andrew J. , Ryan Monique M. , Coleman Lee T. , Mackay Mark T.
Published: March 2009

The clinical and radiological features of childhood acute transverse myelitis are compared to those of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis with spinal cord involvement in 22 children with acute transverse myelitis and 12 children with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis with spinal cord involvement. Children with acute transverse myelitis were more likely to have a sensory level (55%) and areflexia. Sixty-eight percent of the children with acute transverse myelitis, and 92% of children with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis had longitudinally extensive transverse myelitis. Demyelination was more extensive in acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (mean 15.6 vertebral segments) than in acute transverse myelitis (mean 8.0 vertebral segments). The outcome was normal to good in 82% with acute transverse myelitis and in 100% with acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Persistent bladder dysfunction was uncommon in both. Poor prognostic factors in acute transverse myelitis are flaccid paraparesis, respiratory failure, and age less than 6 months. These clinical and radiological differences suggest acute transverse myelitis and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis are separate entities.
Phaeohyphomycosis of the Central Nervous System Caused by Exophiala dermatitidis in a 3-Year-Old Immunocompetent Host
Authors: Chang Xingzhi , Li Ruoyu , Yu Jin , Bao Xinhua , Qin Jiong
Published: March 2009

An extremely rare case of cerebral phaeohyphomycosis caused by Exophiala dermatitidis is reported. We described an otherwise healthy young child whose presentation was a progressive intracranial hypertension and paraplegia, accompanied by urine retention and constipation. His blood test showed eosinophilia with the proportion of eosinophilic cell up to 28%. A computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and the spinal cord revealed multiple lesions. A cerebral biopsy was performed and the pathological report was cerebral phaeohyphomycosis. Cultures of the tissue and cerebrospinal fluid grew the same fungus. Extraction of genomic DNA from cultures was performed, and the DNA sequence displayed 99% sequence homologies with E dermatitidis. The patient's response to therapy was poor, and the boy died 2 months later. Our experience suggests that phaeohyphomycosis should be included in the differential diagnosis in children with multiple intracranial lesions of unknown origin and eosinophilia.
Hyperglycemia Management in Non-critically Ill Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Arnold Lindsay M. , Keller Darcie L. , Tofade Toyin S.
Published: March 2009

There is increasing evidence demonstrating negative consequences and poor clinical outcomes associated with untreated hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients. Data in specific patient populations, primarily critically ill patients, demonstrate improved patient outcomes with tight glycemic control. To date, no clear evidence exists to determine optimal glycemic targets in non-critically ill patients; however, experts agree that better glycemic control in hospitalized patients is warranted. Glycemic control is complicated by numerous factors in hospitalized patients including increased circulating stress hormones, changing nutritional status, and administration of medication therapies that contribute to hyperglycemia. In addition, fear of hypoglycemia among health care providers, a commonly cited barrier, contributes to the failure to adopt more intensive insulin regimens. Current practice trends have proven ineffective and major changes are needed. Some of those trends include the use of sliding scale insulin, continuation of oral agents or combination insulins upon admission, and provider reluctance to initiate insulin in patients not receiving insulin prior to admission. With proper education, safe and effective use of insulin can be used during hospitalization to improve glycemic control. The following article reviews the benefits of glycemic control, identifies barriers to achieving glycemic control, and describes strategies for health care providers and institutions to realize glycemic control in medically ill hospitalized patients.
Variability of Attention Processes in ADHD
Authors: Rapport Mark D. , Kofler Michael J. , Alderson R. Matt , Timko Thomas M. , DuPaul George J.
Published: March 2009

Objective: Classroom- and laboratory-based efforts to study the attentional problems of children with ADHD are incongruent in elucidating attentional deficits; however, none have explored within- or between-minute variability in the classroom attentional processing in children with ADHD. Method: High and low attention groups of ADHD children defined via cluster analysis, and 36 typically developing children, were observed while completing academic assignments in their general education classrooms. Results: All children oscillated between attentive and inattentive states; however, children in both ADHD groups switched states more frequently and remained attentive for shorter durations relative to typically developing children. Conclusion: Overall differences in attention and optimal ability to maintain attention among the groups are consistent with laboratory studies of increased ADHD-related interindividual and intergroup variability but inconsistent with laboratory results of increased intra-individual variability and attention decrements over time. ( J. of Att. Dis. 2009; 12(6) 563-573)
Altered Beta-2 Adrenergic Receptor Gene Expression in Human Clinical Hypertension
Authors: Dungan Jennifer R. , Conley Yvette P. , Langaee Taimour Y. , Johnson Julie A. , Kneipp Shawn M. , Hess Philip J. , Yucha Carolyn B.
Published: March 2009

Objectives: The beta-2 adrenergic receptor is involved in mediating vasodilatation via neurohumoral and sympathetic nervous system pathways. Alterations in beta-2 adrenergic receptor gene expression (mRNA transcription) may contribute to the hypertensive phenotype. Human gene expression in clinical phenotypes remains largely unexplored due to ethical constraints involved in obtaining human tissue. We devised a method to obtain normally discarded internal mammary artery tissue from coronary artery bypass graft patients. We then investigated differences in hypertensive and normotensive participants' beta-2 adrenergic receptor gene expression in this tissue. Methods: We collected arterial tissue samples from 46 coronary artery bypass patients in a surgical setting. Using 41 of the samples, we performed TaqMan real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and used the delta delta cycle threshold (ΔΔCt) relative quantitation method for determination of fold-differences in gene expression between normotensive and hypertensive participants. The beta-2 adrenergic receptor target was normalized to glyceraldehyde-phosphate dehydrogenase. Results: Participants with hypertension had significantly less-expressed beta-2 adrenoceptor gene (2.76-fold, p < .05) compared to normotensive participants. After Bonferroni correction, gene expression did not differ by race, gender, type/dose of β-blocker prescribed, positive family history of hypertension, or diagnosis of diabetes mellitus type 2. Conclusions: These data support the possibility of a molecular basis for impaired adrenoceptor-mediated vascular tone in hypertension. Modification and extension of this research is required.
Formation of alteration zones and kaolin genesis, Limnos Island, northeast Aegean Sea, Greece
Authors: Papoulis D. , Tsolis-Katagas P.
Published: March 2009

Kaolin deposits extending over an area of ~10 km2in the western and southern parts of Limnos Island, northeast Aegean Sea, Greece, were studied. The kaolin deposits are alteration products of volcanic rocks, mainly trachytes, trachyandesites, andesites and dacites. Study of the collected samples was carried out using X-ray powder diffraction (XRPD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive scanning electron microscopy (SEM-EDS), Fourier transform Raman spectroscopy (FT-Raman), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) techniques and inductively-coupled plasma (ICP) bulk rock chemical analyses for major, trace and rare earth elements. The extensive alteration of the parent rocks resulted from the circulation of hydrothermal fluids through faults and fractures. The development of the various assemblages depends not only on the temperature and composition of the hydrothermal fluids but also on the distance of the rock from the fault or the channel of the ascending hydrothermal fluids.

Kaolinite, dickite, halloysite, illite, smectite and mixed-layer illite-smectite and jarosite were detected in the altered volcanic rocks forming locally various alteration zones. Smectite-rich zones and illite-rich zones are relatively infrequent. In the halloysite-rich zones, the kaolinization of feldspars is accomplished in four stages. The kaolinizaton of feldspars in the kaolinite-dickite-rich zones follows five discrete stages. In the less altered rocks, thin layers of kaolinite are formed on the surface of feldspars. With increasing kaolinization, kaolinite is developed on the surface of feldspars forming extended parallel booklets of newly formed kaolinite. In the third stage, feldspar crystals are partially altered to kaolinite booklets. As kaolinization advances, kaolinite becomes well formed and, in the most altered rocks, feldspars are partially or completely altered to dickite books, depending on the temperature of the hydrothermal fluids.
Removal of Pb2+ and Ni2 ions from aqueous media by filtration through clay-based beds
Authors: Ribeiro M. J. , Albuquerque C. M. , Labrincha J. A.
Published: March 2009

This work examines possible new applications for common, clay-based formulations. We processed spray-dried grains of a common clay (ZA-4) and collected fines/rejects from the production of lightweight aggregates (LWA), which were used as filtration beds for removal of Pb2+ and Ni2+ from aqueous solutions. Experiments were performed at different contaminant concentrations and by testing several operational conditions. The removal performance of both tested materials is strongly dependent on the particle-size distribution of the batch, being better for beds made of smaller grain size, since packing density and specific contact area for removal are greater. In general, the efficiency for removal of Pb2+ was greater than for Ni2+. When compared with granular activated carbon, clay-based beds performed well. In particular, finer fractions of LWA show stable behaviour, without saturation after consecutive runs. Saturated beds can potentially be reused, in appropriate amounts, for production of new lightweight aggregates or common ceramic items (e.g. bricks), since retained contaminants will be fixed by firing in the clay matrix. Calcination of pressed pellets made of contaminated filter grains created consolidated ceramic components and sorbed metallic species became inert.
Bone marrow deficient in IFN-γ signaling selectively reverses GVHD-associated immunosuppression and enhances a tumor-specific GVT effect
Authors: Capitini Christian M. , Herby Sarah , Milliron Matthew , Anver Miriam R. , Mackall Crystal L. , Fry Terry J.
Published: March 2009

Vaccine-based expansion of T cells is one approach to enhance the graft-versus-tumor effect of allogeneic bone marrow transplantation (BMT), but the complex immunobiology of the allogeneic environment on responses to tumor vaccines has not been well characterized. We hypothesized that subclinical graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) impairs immunity, but modulation of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) signaling could reverse this effect. Dendritic cell vaccines and donor lymphocyte infusions (DLIs) were incorporated into a minor histocompatibility antigen–mismatched, T cell–depleted, allogeneic BMT mouse model. Animals were then challenged with H-Y expressing tumors. CD4+ and CD8+ responses to H-Y were diminished in vaccinated allogeneic versus syngeneic BMT recipients with DLI doses below the threshold for clinical GVHD, especially in thymectomized hosts. IFN-γ receptor 1–deficient (IFN-γR1−/−) T cells cannot cause GVHD but also have diminished vaccine responses. Remarkably, IFN-γR1−/− bone marrow abrogates GVHD, allowing higher DLI doses to be tolerated, but improves vaccine responses and tumor protection. We conclude that tumor vaccines administered after allogeneic BMT can augment graft-versus-tumor if GVHD is avoided and that prevention of IFN-γ signaling on donor bone marrow is an effective approach to preventing GVHD while preserving immunocompetence.
FragIdent – Automatic identification and characterisation of cDNA-fragments
Authors: Seelow Dominik , Goehler Heike , Hoffmann Katrin
Published: March 2009

Background

Many genetic studies and functional assays are based on cDNA fragments. After the generation of cDNA fragments from an mRNA sample, their content is at first unknown and must be assigned by sequencing reactions or hybridisation experiments.

Even in characterised libraries, a considerable number of clones are wrongly annotated. Furthermore, mix-ups can happen in the laboratory. It is therefore essential to the relevance of experimental results to confirm or determine the identity of the employed cDNA fragments. However, the manual approach for the characterisation of these fragments using BLAST web interfaces is not suited for larger number of sequences and so far, no user-friendly software is publicly available.

Results

Here we present the development of FragIdent, an application for the automatic identification of open reading frames (ORFs) within cDNA-fragments. The software performs BLAST analyses to identify the genes represented by the sequences and suggests primers to complete the sequencing of the whole insert. Gene-specific information as well as the protein domains encoded by the cDNA fragment are retrieved from Internet-based databases and included in the output. The application features an intuitive graphical interface and is designed for researchers without any bioinformatics skills. It is suited for projects comprising up to several hundred different clones.

Conclusion

We used FragIdent to identify 84 cDNA clones from a yeast two-hybrid experiment. Furthermore, we identified 131 protein domains within our analysed clones. The source code is freely available from our homepage at http://compbio.charite.de/genetik/FragIdent/.
Mapping QTL influencing gastrointestinal nematode burden in Dutch Holstein-Friesian dairy cattle
Authors: Coppieters Wouter , Mes Ted HM , Druet Tom , Farnir Frédéric , Tamma Nico , Schrooten Chris , Cornelissen Albert WCA , Georges Michel , Ploeger Harm W
Published: March 2009

Background

Parasitic gastroenteritis caused by nematodes is only second to mastitis in terms of health costs to dairy farmers in developed countries. Sustainable control strategies complementing anthelmintics are desired, including selective breeding for enhanced resistance.

Results and Conclusion

To quantify and characterize the genetic contribution to variation in resistance to gastro-intestinal parasites, we measured the heritability of faecal egg and larval counts in the Dutch Holstein-Friesian dairy cattle population. The heritability of faecal egg counts ranged from 7 to 21% and was generally higher than for larval counts. We performed a whole genome scan in 12 paternal half-daughter groups for a total of 768 cows, corresponding to the ~10% most and least infected daughters within each family (selective genotyping). Two genome-wide significant QTL were identified in an across-family analysis, respectively on chromosomes 9 and 19, coinciding with previous findings in orthologous chromosomal regions in sheep. We identified six more suggestive QTL by within-family analysis. An additional 73 informative SNPs were genotyped on chromosome 19 and the ensuing high density map used in a variance component approach to simultaneously exploit linkage and linkage disequilibrium in an initial inconclusive attempt to refine the QTL map position.
Rapid detection of laboratory cross-contamination with Mycobacterium tuberculosis using multispacer sequence typing
Authors: Djelouadji Zoheira , Orehek Jean , Drancourt Michel
Published: March 2009

Background

The ability to culture Mycobacterium tuberculosis from clinical specimens serves as the gold standard for the diagnosis of tuberculosis. However, a number of false-positive diagnoses may be due to cross-contamination of such specimens. We herein investigate such episode of cross-contamination by using a technique known as multispacer sequence typing (MST). This technique was applied to six M. tuberculosis isolates prepared within the same laboratory over a two-week period of time.

Results

MST analysis indicated a unique and common sequence profile between a strain isolated from a patient with proven pulmonary tuberculosis and a strain isolated from a patient diagnosed with lung carcinoma. Using this approach, we were able to provide a clear demonstration of laboratory cross-contamination within just four working days. Further epidemiological investigations revealed that the two isolates were processed for culture on the same day.

Conclusion

The application of MST has been demonstrated to serve as a rapid and efficient method to investigate cases of possible cross-contamination with M. tuberculosis.
Functional claudication distance: a reliable and valid measurement to assess functional limitation in patients with intermittent claudication
Authors: Kruidenier Lotte M , Nicolaï Saskia PA , Willigendael Edith M , de Bie Rob A , Prins Martin H , Teijink Joep AW
Published: March 2009

Background

Disease severity and functional impairment in patients with intermittent claudication is usually quantified by the measurement of pain-free walking distance (intermittent claudication distance, ICD) and maximal walking distance (absolute claudication distance, ACD). However, the distance at which a patient would prefer to stop because of claudication pain seems a definition that is more correspondent with the actual daily life walking distance. We conducted a study in which the distance a patient prefers to stop was defined as the functional claudication distance (FCD), and estimated the reliability and validity of this measurement.

Methods

In this clinical validity study we included patients with intermittent claudication, following a supervised exercise therapy program. The first study part consisted of two standardised treadmill tests. During each test ICD, FCD and ACD were determined. Primary endpoint was the reliability as represented by the calculated intra-class correlation coefficients. In the second study part patients performed a standardised treadmill test and filled out the Rand-36 questionnaire. Spearman's rho was calculated to assess validity.

Results

The intra-class correlation coefficients of ICD, FCD and ACD were 0.940, 0.959, and 0.975 respectively. FCD correlated significantly with five out of nine domains, namely physical function (rho = 0.571), physical role (rho = 0.532), vitality (rho = 0.416), pain (rho = 0.416) and health change (rho = 0.414).

Conclusion

FCD is a reliable and valid measurement for determining functional capacity in trained patients with intermittent claudication. Furthermore it seems that FCD better reflects the actual functional impairment. In future studies, FCD could be used alongside ICD and ACD.
Recruitment barriers in a randomized controlled trial from the physicians' perspective – A postal survey
Authors: Spaar Anne , Frey Martin , Turk Alexander , Karrer Werner , Puhan Milo A
Published: March 2009

Background

The feasibility of randomized trials often depends on successful patient recruitment. Although numerous recruitment barriers have been identified it is unclear which of them complicate recruitment most. Also, most surveys have focused on the patients' perspective of recruitment barriers whereas the perspective of recruiting physicians has received less attention. Therefore, our aim was to conduct a postal survey among recruiting physicians of a multi-center trial to weigh barriers according to their impact on recruitment.

Methods

We identified any potential recruitment barriers from the literature and from our own experience with a multi-center trial of respiratory rehabilitation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. We developed and pilot-tested a self-administered questionnaire where recruiting physicians were asked to express their agreement with statements about recruitment barriers on a Likert-type scale from 1 (full agreement with statement = very substantial recruitment barrier) to 7 (no agreement with statement = no recruitment barrier).

Results

38 of 55 recruiting physicians returned questionnaires (69% response rate), of which 35 could be analyzed (64% useable response rate). Recruiting physicians reported that "time constraints" (median agreement of 3, interquartile range 2–5) had the most negative impact on recruitment followed by "difficulties including identified eligible patients" (median agreement of 5, IQR 3–6). Other barriers such as "trial design barriers", "lack of access to treatment", "individual barriers of recruiting physicians" or "insufficient training of recruiting physicians" were perceived to have little or no impact on patient recruitment.

Conclusion

Physicians perceived time constraints as the most relevant recruitment barrier in a randomized trial. To overcome recruitment barriers interventions, that are affordable for both industry- and investigator-driven trials, need to be developed and tested in randomized trials.

Trial registration

ISRCTN84612310
The role of PET/CT in detection of gastric cancer recurrence
Authors: Sim Sung Hoon , Kim Yu Jung , Oh Do-Youn , Lee Se-Hoon , Kim Dong-Wan , Kang Won Jun , Im Seock-Ah , Kim Tae-You , Kim Woo Ho , Heo Dae Seog , Bang Yung-Jue
Published: March 2009

Background

In the course of surveillance of gastric cancer recurrence after curative resection, contrast CT scan is used in general. However, new findings from CT scan are not always confirmatory for the recurrence. In this case, we usually use short-term follow up strategy or therapeutic intervention with clinical decision. Recently, the use of fusion Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) is increasing. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and usefulness of PET/CT for detecting recurrence of gastric cancer after curative resection.

Methods

Fifty two patients who received curative resection of gastric cancer and had undergone PET/CT and contrast CT for surveillance of recurrence until Dec 2006 in Seoul National University Hospital were analyzed retrospectively. Recurrence of gastric cancer was validated by histologic confirmation (n = 17) or serial contrast CT follow up with at least 5 month interval (n = 35). McNemar's test and Fisher's exact test were used to evaluate sensitivity and specificity of PET/CT and contrast CT.

Results

Of 52 patients, 38 patients were confirmed as recurrence. The sensitivity was 68.4% (26/38) for PET/CT and 89.4% (34/38) for contrast CT (p = 0.057). The specificity was 71.4% (10/14) and 64.2% (9/14), respectively (p = 1.0). In terms of the recurred sites, the sensitivity and specificity of PET/CT were similar to those of contrast CT in all sites except peritoneum. Contrast CT was more sensitive than PET/CT (p = 0.039) for detecting peritoneal seeding. Additional PET/CT on contrast CT showed no further increase of positive predictive value regardless of sites. Among 13 patients whose image findings between two methods were discordant and tissue confirmation was difficult, the treatment decision was made in 7 patients based on PET/CT, showing the final diagnostic accuracy of 42.8% (3/7).

Conclusion

PET/CT was as sensitive and specific as contrast CT in detection of recurred gastric cancer except peritoneal seeding. However, additional PET/CT on contrast CT did not increase diagnostic accuracy in detection of recurred gastric cancer. Further studies are warranted to validate the role of PET/CT in detection of gastric cancer recurrence.
Intrinsic anticarcinogenic effects of Piper sarmentosum ethanolic extract on a human hepatoma cell line
Authors: Zainal Ariffin Shahrul Hisham , Wan Omar Wan Haifa Haryani , Zainal Ariffin Zaidah , Safian Muhd Fauzi , Senafi Sahidan , Megat Abdul Wahab Rohaya
Published: March 2009

Background

Piper sarmentosum, locally known as kaduk is belonging to the family of Piperaceae. It is our interest to evaluate their effect on human hepatoma cell line (HepG2) for the potential of anticarcinogenic activity.

Results

The anticarcinogenic activity of an ethanolic extract fromPiper sarmentosumin HepG2 and non-malignant Chang's liver cell lines has been previously determined using (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide) (MTT) assays, where the IC50value was used as a parameter for cytotoxicity. The ethanolic extract that showed anticarcinogenic properties in HepG2 cells had an IC50of 12.5 μg mL-1, while IC50values in the non-malignant Chang's liver cell line were greater than 30 μg mL-1. Apoptotic morphological changes in HepG2 cells were observed using an inverted microscope and showed chromatin condensation, cell shrinkage and apoptotic bodies following May-Grunwald-Giemsa's staining. The percentage of apoptotic cells in the overall population (apoptotic index) showed a continuously significant increase (p < 0.05) in 12.5 μg mL-1ethanolic extract-treated cells at 24, 48 and 72 hours compared to controls (untreated cells). Following acridine orange and ethidium bromide staining, treatment with 10, 12 and 14 μg mL-1of ethanolic extracts caused typical apoptotic morphological changes in HepG2 cells. Molecular analysis of DNA fragmentation was used to examine intrinsic apoptosis induced by the ethanolic extracts. These results showed a typical intrinsic apoptotic characterisation, which included fragmentation of nuclear DNA in ethanolic extract-treated HepG2 cells. However, the non-malignant Chang's liver cell line produced no DNA fragmentation. In addition, the DNA genome was similarly intact for both the untreated non-malignant Chang's liver and HepG2 cell lines.

Conclusion

Therefore, our results suggest that the ethanolic extract fromP. sarmentosuminduced anticarcinogenic activity through an intrinsic apoptosis pathway in HepG2 cellsin vitro.
IGOB131, a novel seed extract of the West African plant Irvingia gabonensis, significantly reduces body weight and improves metabolic parameters in overweight humans in a randomized double-blind placebo controlled investigation
Authors: Ngondi Judith L , Etoundi Blanche C , Nyangono Christine B , Mbofung Carl MF , Oben Julius E
Published: March 2009

Background

A recent in vitro study indicates that IGOB131, a novel seed extract of the traditional West African food plant Irvingia gabonensis, favorably impacts adipogenesis through a variety of critical metabolic pathways including PPAR gamma, leptin, adiponectin, and glycerol-3 phosphate dehydrogenase. This study was therefore aimed at evaluating the effects of IGOB131, an extract of Irvingia gabonensis, on body weight and associated metabolic parameters in overweight human volunteers.

Methods

The study participants comprised of 102 healthy, overweight and/or obese volunteers (defined as BMI > 25 kg/m2) randomly divided into two groups. The groups received on a daily basis, either 150 mg of IGOB131 or matching placebo in a double blinded fashion, 30–60 minutes before lunch and dinner. At baseline, 4, 8 and 10 weeks of the study, subjects were evaluated for changes in anthropometrics and metabolic parameters to include fasting lipids, blood glucose, C-reactive protein, adiponectin, and leptin.

Results

Significant improvements in body weight, body fat, and waist circumference as well as plasma total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, blood glucose, C-reactive protein, adiponectin and leptin levels were observed in the IGOB131 group compared with the placebo group.

Conclusion

Irvingia gabonensis administered 150 mg twice daily before meals to overweight and/or obese human volunteers favorably impacts body weight and a variety of parameters characteristic of the metabolic syndrome. This is the first double blind randomized placebo controlled clinical trial regarding the anti-obesity and lipid profile modulating effects of an Irvingia gabonensis extract. The positive clinical results, together with our previously published mechanisms of gene expression modulation related to key metabolic pathways in lipid metabolism, provide impetus for much larger clinical studies. Irvingia gabonensis extract may prove to be a useful tool in dealing with the emerging global epidemics of obesity, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, and their co-morbid conditions.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00645775