bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High resolution CT and histological findings in idiopathic pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis: Features and differential diagnosis
Authors: Piciucchi Sara , Tomassetti Sara , Casoni Gianluca , Sverzellati Nicola , Carloni Angelo , Dubini Alessandra , Gavelli Giampaolo , Cavazza Alberto , Chilosi Marco , Poletti Venerino
Published: August 2011

Idiopathic pleuroparenchymal fibroelastosis (IPPFE) is a recently described clinical-pathologic entity characterized by pleural and subpleural parenchymal fibrosis, mainly in the upper lobes. As this disease is extremely rare (only 7 cases have been described in the literature to date) poorly defined cases of IPPFE can go unrecognized.

The clinical course of disease is progressive and prognosis is poor, with no therapeutic options other than lung transplantation currently available, yet. The aim of this report is to describe two further cases of this rare disease, reviewing CT, clinical and histological features.
Gallus gallus NEU3 sialidase as model to study protein evolution mechanism based on rapid evolving loops
Authors: Giacopuzzi Edoardo , Barlati Sergio , Preti Augusto , Venerando Bruno , Monti Eugenio , Borsani Giuseppe , Bresciani Roberto
Published: August 2011

Background

Large surface loops contained within compact protein structures and not involved in catalytic process have been proposed as preferred regions for protein family evolution. These loops are subjected to lower sequence constraints and can evolve rapidly in novel structural variants. A good model to study this hypothesis is represented by sialidase enzymes. Indeed, the structure of sialidases is a β-propeller composed by anti-parallel β-sheets connected by loops that suit well with the rapid evolving loop hypothesis. These features prompted us to extend our studies on this protein family in birds, to get insights on the evolution of this class of glycohydrolases.

Results

Gallus gallus (Gg) genome contains one NEU3 gene encoding a protein with a unique 188 amino acid sequence mainly constituted by a peptide motif repeated six times in tandem with no homology with any other known protein sequence. The repeat region is located at the same position as the roughly 80 amino acid loop characteristic of mammalian NEU4. Based on molecular modeling, all these sequences represent a connecting loop between the first two highly conserved β-strands of the fifth blade of the sialidase β-propeller. Moreover this loop is highly variable in sequence and size in NEU3 sialidases from other vertebrates. Finally, we found that the general enzymatic properties and subcellular localization of Gg NEU3 are not influenced by the deletion of the repeat sequence.

Conclusion

In this study we demonstrated that sialidase protein structure contains a surface loop, highly variable both in sequence and size, connecting two conserved β-sheets and emerging on the opposite site of the catalytic crevice. These data confirm that sialidase family can serve as suitable model for the study of the evolutionary process based on rapid evolving loops, which may had occurred in sialidases. Giving the peculiar organization of the loop region identified in Gg NEU3, this protein can be considered of particular interest in such evolutionary studies and to get deeper insights in sialidase evolution.
Haplo2Ped: a tool using haplotypes as markers for linkage analysis
Authors: Cheng Feng , Zhang Xianglong , Zhang Yinan , Li Chaohua , Zeng Changqing
Published: August 2011

Background

Generally, SNPs are abundant in the genome; however, they display low power in linkage analysis because of their limited heterozygosity. Haplotype markers, on the other hand, which are composed of many SNPs, greatly increase heterozygosity and have superiority in linkage statistics.

Results

Here we developed Haplo2Ped to automatically transform SNP data into haplotype markers and then to compute the logarithm (base 10) of odds (LOD) scores of regional haplotypes that are homozygous within the disease co-segregation haploid group. The results are reported as a hypertext file and a 3D figure to help users to obtain the candidate linkage regions. The hypertext file contains parameters of the disease linked regions, candidate genes, and their links to public databases. The 3D figure clearly displays the linkage signals in each chromosome. We tested Haplo2Ped in a simulated SNP dataset and also applied it to data from a real study. It successfully and accurately located the causative genomic regions. Comparison of Haplo2Ped with other existing software for linkage analysis further indicated the high effectiveness of this software.

Conclusions

Haplo2Ped uses haplotype fragments as mapping markers in whole genome linkage analysis. The advantages of Haplo2Ped over other existing software include straightforward output files, increased accuracy and superior ability to deal with pedigrees showing incomplete penetrance. Haplo2Ped is freely available at: http://bighapmap.big.ac.cn/software.html.
Improving the prediction of protein binding sites by combining heterogeneous data and Voronoi diagrams
Authors: Segura Joan , Jones Pamela F , Fernandez-Fuentes Narcis
Published: August 2011

Background

Protein binding site prediction by computational means can yield valuable information that complements and guides experimental approaches to determine the structure of protein complexes. Predictions become even more relevant and timely given the current resolution of protein interaction maps, where there is a very large and still expanding gap between the available information on: (i) which proteins interact and (ii) how proteins interact. Proteins interact through exposed residues that present differential physicochemical properties, and these can be exploited to identify protein interfaces.

Results

Here we present VORFFIP, a novel method for protein binding site prediction. The method makes use of broad set of heterogeneous data and defined of residue environment, by means of Voronoi Diagrams that are integrated by a two-steps Random Forest ensemble classifier. Four sets of residue features (structural, energy terms, sequence conservation, and crystallographic B-factors) used in different combinations together with three definitions of residue environment (Voronoi Diagrams, sequence sliding window, and Euclidian distance) have been analyzed in order to maximize the performance of the method.

Conclusions

The integration of different forms information such as structural features, energy term, evolutionary conservation and crystallographic B-factors, improves the performance of binding site prediction. Including the information of neighbouring residues also improves the prediction of protein interfaces. Among the different approaches that can be used to define the environment of exposed residues, Voronoi Diagrams provide the most accurate description. Finally, VORFFIP compares favourably to other methods reported in the recent literature.
A Nation-Wide multicenter 10-year (1999-2008) retrospective clinical epidemiological study of female breast cancer in china
Authors: Li Jing , Zhang Bao-Ning , Fan Jin-Hu , Pang Yi , Zhang Pin , Wang Shu-Lian , Zheng Shan , Zhang Bin , Yang Hong-Jian , Xie Xiao-Ming , Tang Zhong-Hua , Li Hui , Li Jia-Yuan , He Jian-Jun , Qiao You-Lin
Published: August 2011

Background

According to the very limited cancer registry, incidence and mortality rates for female breast cancer in China are regarded to be increasing especially in the metropolitan areas. Representative data on the breast cancer profile of Chinese women and its time trend over years are relatively rare. The aims of the current study are to illustrate the breast cancer profile of Chinese women in time span and to explore the current treatment approaches to female breast cancer.

Methods

This was a hospital-based nation-wide and multi-center retrospective study of female primary breast cancer cases. China was divided into 7 regions according to the geographic distribution; from each region, one tertiary hospital was selected. With the exception of January and February, one month was randomly selected to represent each year from year 1999 to 2008 at every hospital. All inpatient cases within the selected month were reviewed and related information was collected based on the designed case report form (CRF). The Cancer Hospital/Institute, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (CICAMS) was the leading hospital in this study.

Results

Four-thousand two-hundred and eleven cases were randomly selected from the total pool of 45,200 patients and were included in the analysis. The mean age at diagnosis was 48.7 years (s.d. = 10.5 yrs) and breast cancer peaked in age group 40-49 yrs (38.6%). The most common subtype was infiltrating ductal carcinoma (86.5%). Clinical stage I & II accounted for 60.6% of 4,211 patients. Three-thousand five-hundred and thirty-four cases had estrogen receptor (ER) and progestin receptor (PR) tests, among them, 47.9% were positive for both. Two-thousand eight-hundred and forty-nine cases had human epidermal growth factor receptor 2(HER-2) tests, 25.8% of them were HER-2 positive. Among all treatment options, surgery (96.9% (4,078/4,211)) was predominant, followed by chemotherapy (81.4% (3,428/4,211). Much less patients underwent radiotherapy (22.6% (952/4,211)) and endocrine therapy (38.0% (1,599/4,211)).

Conclusions

The younger age of breast cancer onset among Chinese women and more advanced tumor stages pose a great challenge. Adjuvant therapy, especially radiotherapy and endocrine therapy are of great unmet needs.
Study protocol of cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of a biopsychosocial multidisciplinary intervention in the evolution of non-specific sub-acute low back pain in the working population: cluster randomised trial
Authors: Berenguera Anna , Pujol-Ribera Enriqueta , Rodriguez-Blanco Teresa , Violan Concepció , Casajuana Marc , de Kort Nelleke , Trapero-Bertran Marta
Published: August 2011

Background

Low back pain (LBP), with high incidence and prevalence rate, is one of the most common reasons to consult the health system and is responsible for a significant amount of sick leave, leading to high health and social costs. The objective of the study is to assess the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis of a multidisciplinary biopsychosocial educational group intervention (MBEGI) of non-specific sub-acute LBP in comparison with the usual care in the working population recruited in primary healthcare centres.

Methods/design

The study design is a cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis of a MBEGI in comparison with the usual care of non-specific sub-acute LBP.

Measures on effectiveness and costs of both interventions will be obtained from a cluster randomised controlled clinical trial carried out in 38 Catalan primary health care centres, enrolling 932 patients between 18 and 65 years old with a diagnosis of non-specific sub-acute LBP. Effectiveness measures are: pharmaceutical treatments, work sick leave (% and duration in days), Roland Morris disability, McGill pain intensity, Fear Avoidance Beliefs (FAB) and Golberg Questionnaires. Utility measures will be calculated from the SF-12. The analysis will be performed from a social perspective. The temporal horizon is at 3 months (change to chronic LBP) and 12 months (evaluate the outcomes at long term).

Assessment of outcomes will be blinded and will follow the intention-to-treat principle.

Discussion

We hope to demonstrate the cost-effectiveness and cost-utility of MBEGI, see an improvement in the patients' quality of life, achieve a reduction in the duration of episodes and the chronicity of non-specific low back pain, and be able to report a decrease in the social costs. If the intervention is cost-effectiveness and cost-utility, it could be applied to Primary Health Care Centres.

Trial registration

ISRCTN:ISRCTN58719694
The impact of open versus closed format ICU admission practices on the outcome of high risk surgical patients: a cohort analysis
Authors: van der Sluis Frederik J , Slagt Cornelis , Liebman Barbara , Beute Jan , Mulder Jan WR , Engel Alexander F
Published: August 2011

Background

In the year 2000, the organizational structure of the ICU in the Zaandam Medical Centre (ZMC) changed from an open to a closed format ICU. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of this organizational change on outcome in high risk surgical patients.

Methods

The medical records of all consecutive high risk surgical patients admitted to the ICU from 1996 to 1998 (open format) and from 2003 to 2005 (closed format), were reviewed. High-risk patients were defined according to the Identification of Risk in Surgical patients (IRIS) score. Parameters studied were: mortality, morbidity, ICU length of stay (LOS) and hospital LOS.

Results

Mortality of ICU patients was 25.7% in the open format group and 15.8% in the closed format group (p = 0.01). Morbidity decreased from 48.6% to 46.1% (p = 0.6). The average length of hospital stay was 17 days in the open format group, and 21 days in the closed format group (p = 0.03).

Conclusions

High risk surgical patients in the ICU are patients that have undergone complex and often extensive surgery. These patients are in need of specialized treatment and careful monitoring for maximum safety and optimal care. Our results suggest that closed format is a more favourable setting than open format to minimize the effects of high risk surgery, and to warrant safe outcome in this patient group.
Messing up disorder: how do missense mutations in the tumor suppressor protein APC lead to cancer?
Authors: Minde David P , Anvarian Zeinab , Rüdiger Stefan GD , Maurice Madelon M
Published: August 2011

Mutations in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) tumor suppressor gene strongly predispose to development of gastro-intestinal tumors. Central to the tumorigenic events inAPCmutant cells is the uncontrolled stabilization and transcriptional activation of the protein β-catenin. Many questions remain as to how APC controls β-catenin degradation. Remarkably, the large C-terminal region of APC, which spans over 2000 amino acids and includes critical regions in downregulating β-catenin, is predicted to be natively unfolded. Here we discuss how this uncommonly large disordered region may help to coordinate the multiple cellular functions of APC. Recently, a significant number of germline and somatic missense mutations in the central region of APC were linked to tumorigenesis in the colon as well as extra-intestinal tissues. We classify and localize all currently known missense mutations in the APC structure. The molecular basis by which these mutations interfere with the function of APC remains unresolved. We propose several mechanisms by which cancer-related missense mutations in the large disordered domain of APC may interfere with tumor suppressor activity. Insight in the underlying molecular events will be invaluable in the development of novel strategies to counter dysregulated Wnt signaling by APC mutations in cancer.
Obesity, diabetes and OSAS induce of sleep disorders: Exercise as therapy
Authors: Alves Eduardo S , Lira Fabio S , Santos Ronaldo VT , Tufik Sergio , de Mello Marco T
Published: August 2011

Sleep is an integral part of good health. Sleep disorders and variations in sleep habits are associated with a low-grade inflammatory status, which may be either a cause or consequence of other conditions, including obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Several strategies are available to counteract these conditions including continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), pharmacological and nutritional interventions, and even surgery. At present, our group is investigating the effect of chronic endurance exercise on sleep alterations.
Responsiveness of EORTC QLQ-C30, QLQ-CR38 and FACT-C quality of life questionnaires in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Uwer Lionel , Rotonda Christine , Guillemin Francis , Miny Joëlle , Kaminsky Marie-Christine , Mercier Mariette , Tournier-Rangeard Laetitia , Leonard Isabelle , Montcuquet Philippe , Rauch Philippe , Conroy Thierry
Published: August 2011

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the responsiveness of the European Organization for Research and Treatment (EORTC) quality of life questionnaires (QLQ-C30, QLQ-CR38) and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-colorectal version 4 questionnaire (FACT-C).

Method

This prospective study included 127 patients with colorectal cancer: 71 undergoing chemotherapy and 56 radiation therapy. Responsiveness statistics included the Standardized Response Mean (SRM) and the Effect Size (ES). The patient's overall assessment of his/her change in state of health status was the reference criterion to evaluate the responsiveness of the QoL questionnaires.

Results

34 patients perceived their health as stable and 17 as improved between the first and the fourth courses of chemotherapy. 21 patients perceived their health as stable and 22 as improved between before and the last week of radiotherapy.

The responsiveness of the 3 questionnaires differed according to treatments. The EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire was more responsive in patients receiving chemotherapy, particulary functional scales (SRM > 0.55). The QLQ-CR38 and the FACT-C questionnaires provided little clinically relevant information during chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Conclusion

The EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire appears to be more responsive in patients receiving chemotherapy.
Integrated nanophotonic hubs based on ZnO-Tb(OH)3/SiO2 nanocomposites
Authors: Lin Hsia Yu , Cheng Chung Liang , Lin Yu Shen , Hung Yann , Mou Chung Yuan , Chen Yang Fang
Published: August 2011

Optical integration is essential for practical application, but it remains unexplored for nanoscale devices. A newly designed nanocomposite based on ZnO semiconductor nanowires and Tb(OH)3/SiO2 core/shell nanospheres has been synthesized and studied. The unique sea urchin-type morphology, bright and sharply visible emission bands of lanthanide, and large aspect ratio of ZnO crystalline nanotips make this novel composite an excellent signal receiver, waveguide, and emitter. The multifunctional composite of ZnO nanotips and Tb(OH)3/SiO2 nanoparticles therefore can serve as an integrated nanophotonics hub. Moreover, the composite of ZnO nanotips deposited on a Tb(OH)3/SiO2 photonic crystal can act as a directional light fountain, in which the confined radiation from Tb ions inside the photonic crystal can be well guided and escape through the ZnO nanotips. Therefore, the output emission arising from Tb ions is truly directional, and its intensity can be greatly enhanced. With highly enhanced lasing emissions in ZnO-Tb(OH)3/SiO2 as well as SnO2-Tb(OH)3/SiO2 nanocomposites, we demonstrate that our approach is extremely beneficial for the creation of low threshold and high-power nanolaser.
Biocompatible micro-sized cell culture chamber for the detection of nanoparticle-induced IL8 promoter activity on a small cell population
Authors: Kohl Yvonne , Oostingh Gertie J , Sossalla Adam , Duschl Albert , von Briesen Hagen , Thielecke Hagen
Published: August 2011

In most conventional in vitro toxicological assays, the response of a complete cell population is averaged, and therefore, single-cell responses are not detectable. Such averaging might result in misinterpretations when only individual cells within a population respond to a certain stimulus. Therefore, there is a need for non-invasive in vitro systems to verify the toxicity of nanoscale materials. In the present study, a micro-sized cell culture chamber with a silicon nitride membrane (0.16 mm2) was produced for cell cultivation and the detection of specific cell responses. The biocompatibility of the microcavity chip (MCC) was verified by studying adipogenic and neuronal differentiation. Thereafter, the suitability of the MCC to study the effects of nanoparticles on a small cell population was determined by using a green fluorescence protein-based reporter cell line. Interleukin-8 promoter (pIL8) induction, a marker of an inflammatory response, was used to monitor immune activation. The validation of the MCC-based method was performed using well-characterized gold and silver nanoparticles. The sensitivity of the new method was verified comparing the quantified pIL8 activation via MCC-based and standard techniques. The results proved the biocompatibility and the sensitivity of the microculture chamber, as well as a high optical quality due to the properties of Si3N4. The MCC-based method is suited for threshold- and time-dependent analysis of nanoparticle-induced IL8 promoter activity. This novel system can give dynamic information at the level of adherent single cells of a small cell population and presents a new non-invasive in vitro test method to assess the toxicity of nanomaterials and other compounds.

PACS: 85.35.Be, 81.16.Nd, 87.18.Mp
Clustering-based routing for top-k querying in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Mo Shangfeng , Chen Hong , Li Yinglong
Published: August 2011

A large-scale wireless sensor networks (WSNs) can be deployed for top-k querying applications. There are many top-k querying algorithms which are based on traditional routing approaches. In this article, we proposed a clustering-based routing for top-k querying (CRTQ) in WSNs to save the energy consumption and extend the network lifetime. The proposed scheme consists of two parts: one is the cluster formation algorithm; another part is the inter-cluster choosing the relay cluster head algorithm. Moreover, we adopt a corresponding dynamic clustering algorithm. Our experimental result shows that CRTQ substantially outperforms the existing tree-based approaches and clustering-based approaches in terms of both energy consumption and network lifetime.
Structural aspects of leg-to-gonopod metamorphosis in male helminthomorph millipedes (Diplopoda)
Authors: Drago Leandro , Fusco Giuseppe , Garollo Elena , Minelli Alessandro
Published: August 2011

Background

In the adult males of helminthomorph millipedes, one or two pairs of legs in the anterior part of the trunk are strongly modified into sexual appendages (gonopods) used for sperm transfer during the copula. Gonopods differentiate in an advanced phase of post-embryonic development, in most cases as replacement for the walking legs of the seventh trunk ring, as these first regress to tiny primordia, to eventually develop into gonopods at a subsequent stadium. These extremely localized but dramatic changes have been described as a non-systemic metamorphosis. In the present study we describe morphological and anatomical changes of trunk ring VII associated with non-systemic metamorphosis in four helminthomorph species.

Results

As documented here for the first time by means of traditional histology methods and new techniques based on confocal laser scanning microscopy, the external modifications caused by non-systemic metamorphosis are associated to a huge rearrangement of internal anatomy, mostly due to the development of gonopod apodemes and extrinsic muscles.

Conclusions

Internal changes in the seventh trunk ring, locally leading to the dorsal displacement of the ventral nerve cord and the digestive tract, are modulated in a taxon-specific manner, and are very conspicuous in the blaniulidsNopoiulus kochiiandBlaniulus guttulatus, with likely major functional consequences.
Activation of TRPA1 by Membrane Permeable Local Anesthetics
Authors: Leffler Andreas , Lattrell Anja , Kronewald Sergej , Niedermirtl Florian , Nau Carla
Published: August 2011

Background:

Low concentrations of local anesthetics (LAs) suppress cellular excitability by inhibiting voltage-gated Na+ channels. In contrast, LAs at high concentrations can be excitatory and neurotoxic. We recently demonstrated that LA-evoked activation of sensory neurons is mediated by the capsaicin receptor TRPV1, and, to a lesser extent by the irritant receptor TRPA1. LA-induced activation and sensitization of TRPV1 involves a domain that is similar, but not identical to the vanilloid-binding domain. Additionally, activation of TRPV1 by LAs involves PLC and PI(4,5)P2-signalling. In the present study we aimed to characterize essential structural determinants for LA-evoked activation of TRPA1.

Results:

Recombinant rodent and human TRPA1 were expressed in HEK293t cells and investigated by means of whole-cell patch clamp recordings. The LA lidocaine activates TRPA1 in a concentration-dependent manner. The membrane impermeable lidocaine-derivative QX-314 is inactive when applied extracellularly. Lidocaine-activated TRPA1-currents are blocked by the TRPA1-antagonist HC-030031. Lidocaine is also an inhibitor of TRPA1, an effect that is more obvious in rodent than in human TRPA1. This species-specific difference is linked to the pore region (transmembrane domain 5 and 6) as described for activation of TRPA1 by menthol. Unlike menthol-sensitivity however, lidocaine-sensitivity is not similarly determined by serine- and threonine-residues within TM5. Instead, intracellular cysteine residues known to be covalently bound by reactive TRPA1-agonists seem to mediate activation of TRPA1 by LAs.

Conclusions:

The structural determinants involved in activation of TRPA1 by LAs are disparate from those involved in activation by menthol or those involved in activation of TRPV1 by LAs.
Lentiviral Gene Transfer into the Dorsal Root Ganglion of Adult Rats
Authors: Yu gwei , Fischer Greg , Jia Guangfu , Reiser Jakob , Park Frank , Hogan Quinn H
Published: August 2011

Background:

Lentivector-mediated gene delivery into the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is a promising method for exploring pain pathophysiology and for genetic treatment of chronic neuropathic pain. In this study, a series of modified lentivector particles with different cellular promoters, envelope glycoproteins, and viral accessory proteins were generated to evaluate the requirements for efficient transduction into neuronal cells in vitro and adult rat DRG in vivo.

Results:

In vitro, lentivectors expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) under control of the human elongation factor 1α (EF1α) promoter and pseudotyped with the conventional vesicular stomatitis virus G protein (VSV-G) envelope exhibited the best performance in the transfer of EGFP into an immortalized DRG sensory neuron cell line at low multiplicities of infection (MOIs), and into primary cultured DRG neurons at higher MOIs. In vivo, injection of either first or second-generation EF1α-EGFP lentivectors directly into adult rat DRGs led to transduction rates of 19 ± 9% and 20 ± 8% EGFP-positive DRG neurons, respectively, detected at 4 weeks post injection. Transduced cells included a full range of neuronal phenotypes, including myelinated neurons as well as both non-peptidergic and peptidergic nociceptive unmyelinated neurons.

Conclusion:

VSV-G pseudotyped lentivectors containing the human elongation factor 1α (EF1α)-EGFP expression cassette demonstrated relatively efficient transduction to sensory neurons following direct injection into the DRG. These results clearly show the potential of lentivectors as a viable system for delivering target genes into DRGs to explore basic mechanisms of neuropathic pain, with the potential for future clinical use in treating chronic pain.
Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome associated with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome-related gastrointestinal limited Kaposi's sarcoma presenting as acute intestinal obstruction: a case report
Authors: Pal Jyotirmoy , Shrivastav Ankit , Pathak Hari Shankar , Sarkar Dipendra Kumar
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome during anti-retroviral treatment of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) -associated gastrointestinal Kaposi's sarcoma has rarely been reported.

Case Presentation

A 36-year-old Asian Indian male, newly diagnosed with AIDS and treatment naïve, was started on highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). He developed acute intestinal obstruction after four weeks of therapy. A laparotomy was done with excision and adhesiolysis leading to relief of symptoms. A histology report revealed the lesion to be Kaposi's sarcoma. Our patient was diagnosed to be having immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome associated with AIDS-associated gastrointestinal limited Kaposi's sarcoma, which presented as acute intestinal obstruction. Our patient was treated with paclitaxel post-operatively and HAART was continued. Our patient responded to therapy.

Conclusion

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome involving Kaposi's sarcoma may occur in HAART-naïve individuals with AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma. Gastrointestinal Kaposi's sarcoma may present with sudden increase in size or inflammation leading to acute intestinal obstruction. This does not indicate failure of HAART or a need for changes in anti-retroviral regimen.
Submicroscopic interstitial deletion of chromosome 11q22.3 in a girl with mild mental retardation and facial dysmorphism: Case report
Authors: Krgovic Danijela , Marcun Varda Natasa , Zagorac Andreja , Kokalj-Vokac Nadja
Published: August 2011

Background

Except for terminal deletions that lead to Jacobsen syndrome, interstitial deletions involving the long arm of chromosome 11 are not frequently reported. A clinically distinct phenotype is usually observed in these cases, and no clear genotype-phenotype correlation is proposed.

Results

Here we present a case study of a 5-year-old girl with de novo submicroscopic deletion of chromosome 11q22.3 with mild mental retardation and facial dysmorphism. A standard cytogenetic analysis did not reveal any structural aberrations. In contrary, array-CGH analysis indicated a small deletion of 11q22.3.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the smallest 11q22.3 deletion reported in literature, containing nine RefSeq genes. Although none of the deleted genes are obvious candidates for the features observed in our patient, genes CUL5 and SLN could play a key role in the features described.
Short term efficacy of nebulized beclomethasone in mild-to-moderate wheezing episodes in pre-school children
Authors: Papi Alberto , Nicolini Gabriele , Boner Attilio L , Baraldi Eugenio , Cutrera Renato , Fabbri Leonardo M , Rossi Giovanni A
Published: August 2011

Background

Few data are available on the usefulness of short term treatment with low-medium dose of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in pre-school children with wheezing exacerbations.

Methods

To compare the efficacy of one week treatment with 400 μg b.i.d. nebulized beclomethasone dipropionate (BDP), plus nebulized 2500 μg prn salbutamol (BDP group), versus nebulized b.i.d. placebo, plus nebulized prn 2500 μg salbutamol (placebo group), a post-hoc analysis was performed on data obtained in 166 pre-school children with multiple-trigger wheezing, recruited during an acute wheezing episode.

Results

The percentage of symptom-free days (SFDs) was significantly higher in the BDP group (54.7%) than in the placebo group (40.5%; p = 0.012), with a 35% relative difference. Day-by-day analysis showed that the percentage of SFDs was already higher in the BDP group after 2 days (7.4%), the difference reaching statistical significance at day 6 (12.3%; p = 0.035). Cough score was also reduced in the BDP group (0.11) as compared with the placebo group (0.39; p = 0.048), the difference reaching statistical significance after 5 days of treatment (0.18 and 0.47 respectively; p = 0.047). The mean number of nebulizations per day of prn salbutamol was lower in the BDP group as compared to the placebo group (0.26 and 0.34, respectively), but the difference was not significant (p = 0.366). There were no differences in positive effects of BDP treatment between children with and without risk factors for asthma.

Conclusions

A 1-week treatment with nebulized BDP and prn salbutamol is effective in increasing SFDs and improving cough in children with wheezing, providing a clinical rationale for the short term use of ICS in episodic wheeze exacerbations in pre-school children.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT00497523)
The zinc-ribbon domain of Helicobacter pylori HP0958: requirement for RpoN accumulation and possible roles of homologs in other bacteria
Authors: Pereira Lara E , Tsang Jennifer , Mrázek Jan , Hoover Timothy R
Published: August 2011

Background

Helicobacter pylori HP0958 protein (FlgZ) prevents the rapid turnover of RpoN (σ54), a transcription factor required for expression of several flagellar genes in H. pylori. FlgZ possesses a zinc-ribbon domain (DUF164) that contains two conserved CXXC motifs which coordinate a zinc ion and is thought to interact with nucleic acids or proteins. Two conserved cysteine residues in FlgZ (Cys-202 and Cys-223) were replaced with serine to assess their significance in FlgZ function. After confirming the importance of the CXXC motifs in the DUF164 domain of FlgZ, the distribution of DUF164 proteins and RpoN homologs in other bacteria was examined to determine if a correlation existed for the concurrence of the two proteins.

Results

Levels of RpoN were greatly reduced in H. pylori strains that expressed the FlgZC202S or FlgZC223S variants. The FlgZC202S variant, but not the FlgZC223S variant, accumulated at levels similar to the wild-type protein. DUF164 proteins are not universally distributed and appear to be absent in several major bacterial taxa, including Cyanobacteria as well as Alpha-, Beta- and Gammaproteobacteria. With the exception of the Actinobacteria, members of which generally lack RpoN, genes encoding DUF164 proteins and RpoN are frequently found in the same genome. Interestingly, many of the DUF164 proteins in Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes lack most or even all of the conserved cysteine residues.

Conclusions

These findings suggest the importance of the zinc-ribbon domain of FlgZ in protecting RpoN from turnover. Since many bacteria that possess a DUF164 protein also contain RpoN, DUF164 proteins may have roles in RpoN protection or function in other bacteria.
Lef1-dependent Wnt/β-catenin signalling drives the proliferative engine that maintains tissue homeostasis during lateral line development
Authors: Valdivia Leonardo E. , Young Rodrigo M. , Hawkins Thomas A. , Stickney Heather L. , Cavodeassi Florencia , Schwarz Quenten , Pullin Lisa M. , Villegas Rosario , Moro Enrico , Argenton Francesco , Allende Miguel L. , Wilson Stephen W.
Published: August 2011

During tissue morphogenesis and differentiation, cells must self-renew while contemporaneously generating daughters that contribute to the growing tissue. How tissues achieve this precise balance between proliferation and differentiation is, in most instances, poorly understood. This is in part due to the difficulties in dissociating the mechanisms that underlie tissue patterning from those that regulate proliferation. In the migrating posterior lateral line primordium (PLLP), proliferation is predominantly localised to the leading zone. As cells emerge from this zone, they periodically organise into rosettes that subsequently dissociate from the primordium and differentiate as neuromasts. Despite this reiterative loss of cells, the primordium maintains its size through regenerative cell proliferation until it reaches the tail. In this study, we identify a null mutation in the Wnt-pathway transcription factor Lef1 and show that its activity is required to maintain proliferation in the progenitor pool of cells that sustains the PLLP as it undergoes migration, morphogenesis and differentiation. In absence of Lef1, the leading zone becomes depleted of cells during its migration leading to the collapse of the primordium into a couple of terminal neuromasts. We show that this behaviour resembles the process by which the PLLP normally ends its migration, suggesting that suppression of Wnt signalling is required for termination of neuromast production in the tail. Our data support a model in which Lef1 sustains proliferation of leading zone progenitors, maintaining the primordium size and defining neuromast deposition rate.
Glycomonomeric and Glycopolymeric Inhibitors for β-Glucuronidase. π–π Stacking Interaction, Polymeric Effect, and Plausible Conformation
Authors: Kawaguchi Asei William , Okawa Haruki , Hashimoto Kazuhiko
Published: August 2011

N-p-Vinylbenzyl-6-d-glucaramic acid (VB-6-d-GlcaH, 1) and its corresponding polymer, P(VB-6-d-GlcaH-co-AAm) (2), were found to inhibit β-glucuronidase activity more efficiently than d-glucaro-6,3-lactone, while the inhibition ability of N-butyl-6-d-glucaramic acid (Butyl-6-d-GlcaH, 3) on the enzyme activity was seriously lower than that of the lactone. The π–π stacking interaction between the styryl part of 1 and Trp587 of β-glucuronidase was confirmed by the blue shift detected on fluorescence spectrophotometry and the observation of the 3D motif for the active site with the glycomonomer, which must enhance the inhibition ability of the enzyme. In the case of 2, however, such a shift was not observed, which indicated that the effective inhibition of 2 was induced not by the π–π stacking interaction but a polymeric effect. Based on these results and our previous work, plausible conformations of 1 and 2 fitting in β-glucuronidase were proposed.
Un supplément au glossaire de CourLouisLe
Authors: Ogurisu Hitoshi
Published: August 2011

Der Aufsatz bietet Ergänzungen zum Glossar der Ausgabe Lepage 1978 des Couronnement de Louis (CourLouisLe), indem er dort enthaltene problematische Definitionen richtig stellt und wichtige dort fehlende Lemmata ergänzt. Darüber hinaus wird die Interpretation des rätselhaften Syntagmas «a destesee» (nach Y. Lepage als ‘d'un geste large’, nach G. Roques als ‘a levé pour frapper’ zu verstehen) einer Überprüfung unterzogen.
Esmouvoir à bien vivre. La construction prépositionnelle en à en tant que témoin de la psychologisation du verbe émouvoir
Authors: Bloem Annelies
Published: August 2011

Au cours des siècles, le verbe émouvoir est sujet à maints changements. Selon nous, l'évolution sémantique du verbe émouvoir va de pair avec une évolution syntaxique qui s'opère avant tout au niveau de la sélection sémantique et syntaxique des compléments prépositionnels. Dès lors, nous étudions le comportement lexical du verbe par le biais d'une analyse détaillée des compléments prépositionnels introduits par à, pour laquelle nous nous inspirons essentiellement de la typologie conçue par Goyens, Lamiroy et Melis. Ainsi, nous étudions si on peut observer une corrélation entre les changements sémantiques et syntaxiques du verbe émouvoir.
An Experimental Test of Kin Recognition in Harvester Ants
Authors: Strickler Stephanie A. , Schwagmeyer P. L.
Published: August 2011

Many animals direct assistance selectively toward relatives and/or aggression toward non-relatives; the ability to differentiate between kin and non-kin should evolve when doing so incurs fitness benefits. We detail a field-based experiment that tests whether workers of a large-bodied, abundant, and hardy seed-harvester ant are capable of kin recognition. We use this exercise in an undergraduate animal-behavior class to introduce concepts associated with eusocial insects and the study of kin recognition, as well as to reinforce principles of hypothesis testing, experimental design, and scientific writing. Students collect data, analyze and interpret results, and write a formal report; this experiment is one of several we use as models to prepare students for designing and performing their own follow-up studies.
Pulmonary Homografts for Aortic Valve Replacement: Long-term Comparison with Aortic Grafts
Authors: Vogt Ferdinand , Kowert Anke , Beiras-Fernandez Andres , Oberhoffer Martin , Kaczmarek Ingo , Reichart Bruno , Kilian Eckehard
Published: August 2011

Objective: The use of homografts for aortic valve replacement (AVR) is an alternative to mechanical or biological valve prostheses, especially in younger patients. This retrospective comparative study evaluated our single-center long-term results, with a focus on the different origins of the homografts.

Methods: Since 1992, 366 adult patients have undergone AVR with homografts at our center. We compared 320 homografts of aortic origin and 46 homografts of pulmonary origin. The grafts were implanted via either a subcoronary technique or the root replacement technique. We performed a multivariate analysis to identify independent factors that influence survival. Freedom from reintervention and survival rates were calculated as cumulative events according to the Kaplan-Meier method, and differences were tested with the log-rank test.

Results: Overall mortality within 1 year was 6.5% (21/320) in the aortic graft group and 17.4% (8/46) in the pulmonary graft group. In the pulmonary graft group, 4 patients died from valve-related complications, 1 patient died after additional heterotopic heart transplantation, and 1 patient who entered with a primary higher risk died from a prosthesis infection. Two patients died from non-valve-related causes. During the long-term follow-up, the 15-year survival rate was 79.9% for patients in the aortic graft group and 68.7% for patients in the pulmonary graft group (P = .049). The rate of freedom from reoperation was 77.7% in the aortic graft group and 57.4% in the pulmonary graft group (P < .001). The reasons for homograft explantation were graft infections (aortic graft group, 5.0%; pulmonary graft group, 6.5%) and degeneration (aortic graft group, 7.5%; pulmonary graft group, 32.6%).

Conclusion: Our study demonstrated superior rates of survival and freedom from reintervention after AVR with aortic homografts. Implantation with a pulmonary graft was associated with a higher risk of redo surgery, owing to earlier degenerative alterations.
Aortoesophageal Fistula Secondary to Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair of a Descending Aortic Aneurysm Rupture
Authors: Yavuz Sadan , Kanko Muhip , Ciftci Ercument , Parlar Hakan , Agirbas Huseyin , Berki Turan
Published: August 2011

Purpose: We present the case of a patient who developed an aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) 4 years after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) of a descending thoracic aortic aneurysm rupture.

Case Report: A 60-year-old female patient underwent emergency stent graft placement in December 2006 because of rupture of a distal descending aortic aneurysm. The patient was discharged uneventfully. Four years later, the patient was readmitted because of recurrent hematemesis, weight loss, and malaise. A computed tomography scan and an upper gastrointestinal system (GIS) endoscopy examination revealed an AEF located at the midportion of the esophagus and at the caudal end of the stent graft. An emergency stent graft was re-replaced into the previous graft. The patient died from hemorrhagic shock due to massive GIS bleeding while she was being prepared for secondary major esophageal surgery.

Conclusion: AEF is a catastrophic complication of TEVAR. Conservative treatment is often associated with fatal results. If possible, these patients should be treated with secondary major surgical procedures.
Pediatric Injuries Attributable to Falls From Windows in the United States in 1990–2008
Authors: Harris Vaughn A. , Rochette Lynne M. , Smith Gary A.
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To examine the epidemiological features of pediatric injuries related to falls from windows.

METHODS:

By using the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, emergency department (ED) data for pediatric injury cases associated with window falls in 1990–2008 were reviewed.

RESULTS:

An estimated 98 415 children (95% confidence interval [CI]: 82 416–114 419) were treated in US hospital EDs for window fall–related injuries during the 19-year study period (average: 5180 patients per year [95% CI: 4828–5531]). The mean age of children was 5.1 years, and boys accounted for 58.1% of cases. One-fourth (25.4%) of the patients required admission to the hospital. The annual injury rate decreased significantly during the study period because of a decrease in the annual injury rate among 0- to 4-year-old children. Children 0 to 4 years of age were more likely to sustain head injuries (injury proportion ratio [IPR]: 3.22 [95% CI: 2.65–3.91]) and to be hospitalized or to die (IPR: 1.65 [95% CI: 1.38–1.97]) compared with children 5 to 17 years of age. Children who landed on hard surfaces were more likely to sustain head injuries (IPR: 2.05 [95% CI: 1.53–2.74]) and to be hospitalized or to die (IPR: 2.23 [95% CI: 1.57–3.17]) compared with children who landed on cushioning surfaces.

CONCLUSIONS:

To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate window fall–related injuries treated in US hospital EDs by using a nationally representative sample. These injuries are an important pediatric public health problem, and increased prevention efforts are needed, including development and evaluation of innovative prevention programs.
Universal Hepatitis B Vaccination Reduces Childhood Hepatitis B Virus–Associated Membranous Nephropathy
Authors: Liao Min-Tser , Chang Mei-Hwei , Lin Fu-Gong , Tsai I-Jung , Chang Yen-Wen , Tsau Yong-Kwei
Published: August 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To compare the incidence of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-associated membranous nephropathy (HBVMN) before and after universal HBV vaccination and to identify factors underlying the change.

METHODS:

This study included 471 hospitalized children with nephrotic syndrome (NS) and 488 long-term follow-up hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg)-carrier children. Horizontal transmission (negative maternal HBsAg status) of HBVMN and HBV was assessed, and the incidence of HBVMN was compared before and after initiation of the universal HBV vaccination program started in 1984.

RESULTS:

The frequency of HBVMN in children with NS was 11.6% between 1974 and 1984, 4.5% between 1984 and 1994, 2.1% between 1994 and 2004, and 0% between 2004 and 2009. Similarly, the number of HBsAg-seropositive children with NS (mainly via horizontal infection) decreased after universal vaccination. The prevaccination frequency of HBV horizontal transmission in chronic HBsAg carriers from the general population was 36.5% compared with 5% in the postvaccination period. The incidence of HBVMN in these carriers revealed a parallel decline.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our results revealed a significant decrease in the frequency of HBVMN in children with NS and in long-term follow-up HBsAg carriers. Children with HBVMN are primarily infected with HBV via horizontal transmission; thus, the significant reduction in horizontal transmission in HBsAg-carrier children in the general population after universal HBV vaccination may explain the reduction of HBVMN in the vaccinated population. These findings confirm the effectiveness of HBV vaccination on reducing the incidence of HBVMN, possibly through a significant decline in horizontal HBV infection.