bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of Unexplained Syncope
Authors: Flammang Daniel , Church Timothy R. , De Roy Luc , Blanc Jean-Jacques , Leroy Jean , Mairesse Georges H. , Otmani Akli , Graux Pierre J. , Frank Robert , Purnode Philippe ,   for the ATP Multicenter Study
Published: November 2011

Background—

The origin of 40% of syncope cases remains unknown even after a complete diagnostic workup. Previous studies have suggested that ATP testing has value in selecting successful therapy. This patient-blinded, multicenter, randomized superiority trial tested whether, in patients with syncope of unknown origin, selecting cardiac pacing in those with a positive ATP test leads to fewer recurrences than those who do not receive pacing.

Methods and Results—

From 2000 to 2005, 80 consenting patients (mean age, 75.9±7.7 years; 81% women; 56% without diagnosed structural heart disease) with syncope of unknown origin and atrioventricular or sinoatrial block lasting >10 seconds (average, 17.9±6.8 seconds) under ATP administration (20-mg IV bolus) were recruited from 10 hospitals, implanted with programmable pacemakers, and randomized to either active pacing (dual-chamber pacing at 70 bpm) or backup pacing (atrial pacing at 30 bpm). Patients were followed up regularly for up to 5 years for any syncope recurrence, the primary outcome. Mean follow-up was 16 months. Syncope recurred in 8 of 39 patients (21%) randomized to active pacing and in 27 of 41 (66%) randomized to backup pacing (control), yielding a hazard ratio of 0.25 (95% confidence interval, 0.12–0.56). After recurrence, the 27 recurrent control patients were reprogrammed to active pacing, and only 1 reported subsequent syncope.

Conclusion—

This study suggests that, in elderly patients with syncope of unknown origin and positive ATP tests, active dual-chamber pacing reduces syncope recurrence risk by 75% (95% confidence interval, 44–88).

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN00029383
. Unique identifier: ISRCTN00029383.
The TPR-containing domain within Est1 homologs exhibits species-specific roles in telomerase interaction and telomere length homeostasis
Authors: Sealey David CF , Kostic Aleksandar D , LeBel Catherine , Pryde Fiona , Harrington Lea
Published: November 2011

Background

The first telomerase-associated protein (Est1) was isolated in yeast due to its essential role in telomere maintenance. The human counterparts EST1A, EST1B, and EST1C perform diverse functions in nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD), telomere length homeostasis, and telomere transcription. Although Est1 and EST1A/B interact with the catalytic subunit of yeast and human telomerase (Est2 and TERT, respectively), the molecular determinants of these interactions have not been elaborated fully.

Results

To investigate the functional conservation of the EST1 protein family, we performed protein-protein interaction mapping and structure-function analysis. The domain in hEST1A most conserved between species, containing a TPR (tricotetrapeptide repeat), was sufficient for interaction of hEST1A with multiple fragments of hTERT including the N-terminus. Two mutations within the hTERT N-terminus that perturbin vivofunction (NAAIRS92, NAAIRS122) did not affect this protein interaction. ScEst1 hybrids containing the TPR of hEST1A, hEST1B, or hEST1C were expressed in yeast strains lackingEST1, yet they failed to complement senescence. Point mutations within and outside the cognate ScEst1 TPR, chosen to disrupt a putative protein interaction surface, resulted in telomere lengthening or shortening without affecting recruitment to telomeres.

Conclusions

These results identify a domain encompassing the TPR of hEST1A as an hTERT interaction module. The TPR ofS. cerevisiaeEst1 is required for telomerase-mediated telomere length maintenance in a manner that appears separable from telomere recruitment. Discrete residues in or adjacent to the TPR of Est1 also regulate telomere length homeostasis.
Two genetic loci control syllable sequences of ultrasonic courtship vocalizations in inbred mice
Authors: Choi Hansol , Park Saegeun , Kim Daesoo
Published: November 2011

Background

The ultrasonic vocalizations (USV) of courting male mice are known to possess a phonetic structure with a complex combination of several syllables. The genetic mechanisms underlying the syllable sequence organization were investigated.

Results

This study compared syllable sequence organization in two inbred strains of mice, 129S4/SvJae (129) and C57BL6J (B6), and demonstrated that they possessed two mutually exclusive phenotypes. The 129S4/SvJae (129) strain frequently exhibited a "chevron-wave" USV pattern, which was characterized by the repetition of chevron-type syllables. The C57BL/6J strain produced a "staccato" USV pattern, which was characterized by the repetition of short-type syllables. An F1 strain obtained by crossing the 129S4/SvJae and C57BL/6J strains produced only the staccato phenotype. The chevron-wave and staccato phenotypes reappeared in the F2 generations, following the Mendelian law of independent assortment.

Conclusions

These results suggest that two genetic loci control the organization of syllable sequences. These loci were occupied by the staccato and chevron-wave alleles in the B6 and 129 mouse strains, respectively. Recombination of these alleles might lead to the diversity of USV patterns produced by mice.
Hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction in Friedreich Ataxia
Authors: Stüwe Sven H , Goetze Oliver , Arning Larissa , Banasch Matthias , Schmidt Wolfgang E , Schöls Ludger , Saft Carsten
Published: November 2011

Background

Mitochondrial dysfunction due to respiratory chain impairment is a key feature in pathogenesis of Friedreich ataxia. Friedreich ataxia affects the nervous system, heart and pancreas.

Methods

We assessed hepatic mitochondrial function by 13C-methionine-breath-test in 16 Friedreich ataxia patients and matched healthy controls.

Results

Patients exhaled significantly smaller amounts of 13CO2 over 90 minutes. Maximal exhaled percentage dose of 13CO2 recovery was reduced compared to controls.

Conclusions

13C-methionine-breath-test indicates subclinical hepatic mitochondrial dysfunction in Friedreich ataxia but did not correlate with GAA repeat lengths, disease duration or disease severity.
Assessing cognitive insight in nonpsychiatric individuals and outpatients with schizophrenia in Taiwan: an investigation using the Beck Cognitive Insight Scale
Authors: Kao Yu-Chen , Wang Tzong-Shi , Lu Chien-Wen , Liu Yia-Ping
Published: November 2011

Background

The Beck Cognitive Insight Scale (BCIS) was designed for the assessment of the cognitive processes involved in self-reflection and the ability to modify erroneous beliefs and misinterpretations. Studies investigating the factor structure of the BCIS have indicated a two-factor model in the psychotic population. The factor structure of the BCIS, however, has not received much consideration in the nonpsychiatric population. The present study examined the factor structure and validity of the BCIS and compared its scores between nonpsychiatric individuals and outpatients with psychosis.

Method

The Taiwanese version of the BCIS was administered to 507 nonpsychiatric individuals and 118 outpatients with schizophrenia. The psychometric properties of the BCIS were examined through the following analyses: exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, reliability, correlation analyses, and discriminative validity.

Results

The BCIS showed adequate internal consistency and stability over time. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses on the 15-item measure indicated a two-factor solution that supported the two dimensions of the Taiwanese BCIS, which was also observed with the original BCIS. Following the construct validation, we obtained a composite index (self-reflectiveness minus self-certainty) of the Taiwanese BCIS that reflected cognitive insight. Consistent with previous studies, our results indicated that psychosis is associated with low self-reflectiveness and high self-certainty, which possibly reflect lower cognitive insight. Our results also showed that better cognitive insight is related to worse depression in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders, but not in nonpsychiatric individuals. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses revealed that the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.731. A composite index of 3 was a good limit, with a sensitivity of 87% and a specificity of 51%.

Conclusion

The BCIS proved to be useful for measuring cognitive insight in Taiwanese nonpsychiatric and psychotic populations.
Sumo-dependent substrate targeting of the SUMO protease Ulp1
Authors: Elmore Zachary C , Donaher Megan , Matson Brooke C , Murphy Helen , Westerbeck Jason W , Kerscher Oliver
Published: November 2011

Background

In the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiae, the essential small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO) protease Ulp1 is responsible for both removing SUMO/Smt3 from specific target proteins and for processing precursor SUMO into its conjugation-competent form. Ulp1 localizes predominantly to nuclear pore complexes but has also been shown to deconjugate sumoylated septins at the bud-neck of dividing cells. How Ulp1 is directed to bud-neck localized septins and other cytoplasmic deconjugation targets is not well understood.

Results

Using a structure/function approach, we set out to elucidate features of Ulp1 that are required for substrate targeting. To aid our studies, we took advantage of a catalytically inactive mutant of Ulp1 that is greatly enriched at the septin ring of dividing yeast cells. We found that the localization of Ulp1 to the septins requires both SUMO and specific structural features of Ulp1's catalytic domain. Our analysis identified a 218-amino acid, substrate-trapping mutant of the catalytic domain of Ulp1, Ulp1(3)(C580S), that is necessary and sufficient for septin localization. We also used the targeting and SUMO-binding properties of Ulp1(3)(C580S)to purify Smt3-modified proteins from cell extracts.

Conclusions

Our study provides novel insights into how the Ulp1 SUMO protease is actively targeted to its substratesin vivoandin vitro. Furthermore, we found that a substrate-trapping Ulp1(3)(C580S)interacts robustly with human SUMO1, SUMO2 and SUMO2 chains, making it a potentially useful tool for the analysis and purification of SUMO-modified proteins.
Involvement of Peripheral Ionotropic Glutamate Receptors in Orofacial Thermal Hyperalgesia in Rats
Authors: Honda Kuniya , Noma Noboru , Shinoda Masamichi , Miyamoto Makiko , Katagiri Ayano , Kita Daiju , Liu Ming-Gang , Sessle Barry J , Yasuda Masafumi , Iwata Koichi
Published: November 2011

Background:

The purpose of the present study was to elucidate the mechanisms that may underlie the sensitization of trigeminal spinal subnucleus caudalis (Vc) and upper cervical spinal cord (C1-C2) neurons to heat or cold stimulation of the orofacial region following glutamate (Glu) injection.

Results:

Glu application to the tongue or whisker pad skin caused an enhancement of head-withdrawal reflex and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation in Vc-C2 neurons. Head-withdrawal reflex and ERK phosphorylation were also enhanced following cold stimulation of the tongue but not whisker pad skin in Glu-injected rats, and the head-withdrawal reflex and ERK phosphorylation were enhanced following heat stimulation of the tongue or whisker pad skin. The enhanced head-withdrawal reflex and ERK phosphorylation after heat stimulation of the tongue or whisker pad skin, and those following cold stimulation of the tongue but not whisker pad skin were suppressed following ionotropic glutamate receptor antagonists administration into the tongue or whisker pad skin. Furthermore, intrathecal administration of MEK1/2 inhibitor PD98059 caused significant suppression of enhanced head-withdrawal reflex in Glu-injected rats, heat head-withdrawal reflex in the rats with Glu injection into the tongue or whisker pad skin and cold head-withdrawal reflex in the rats with Glu injection into the tongue.

Conclusions:

The present findings suggest that peripheral Glu receptor mechanisms may contribute to cold hyperalgesia in the tongue but not in the facial skin, and also contribute to heat hyperalgesia in the tongue and facial skin, and that the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade in Vc-C2 neurons may be involved in these Glu-evoked hyperalgesic effects.
MVP and vaults: a role in the radiation response
Authors: Lara Pedro C , Pruschy Martin , Zimmermann Martina , Henríquez-Hernández Luis Alberto
Published: November 2011

Vaults are evolutionary highly conserved ribonucleoproteins particles with a hollow barrel-like structure. The main component of vaults represents the 110 kDa major vault protein (MVP), whereas two minor vaults proteins comprise the 193 kDa vault poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (vPARP) and the 240 kDa telomerase-associated protein-1 (TEP-1). Additionally, at least one small and untranslated RNA is found as a constitutive component. MVP seems to play an important role in the development of multidrug resistance. This particle has also been implicated in the regulation of several cellular processes including transport mechanisms, signal transmission and immune responses. Vaults are considered a prognostic marker for different cancer types. The level of MVP expression predicts the clinical outcome after chemotherapy in different tumour types. Recently, new roles have been assigned to MVP and vaults including the association with the insulin-like growth factor-1, hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha, and the two major DNA double-strand break repair machineries: non-homologous endjoining and homologous recombination. Furthermore, MVP has been proposed as a useful prognostic factor associated with radiotherapy resistance. Here, we review these novel actions of vaults and discuss a putative role of MVP and vaults in the response to radiotherapy.
High throughput screening of hydrolytic enzymes from termites using a natural substrate derived from sugarcane bagasse
Authors: Lucena Severino A , Lima Leile S , Cordeiro Luís SA , Sant'Anna Celso , Constantino Reginaldo , Azambuja Patricia , de Souza Wanderley , Garcia Eloi S , Genta Fernando A
Published: November 2011

Background

The description of new hydrolytic enzymes is an important step in the development of techniques which use lignocellulosic materials as a starting point for fuel production. Sugarcane bagasse, which is subjected to pre-treatment, hydrolysis and fermentation for the production of ethanol in several test refineries, is the most promising source of raw material for the production of second generation renewable fuels in Brazil. One problem when screening hydrolytic activities is that the activity against commercial substrates, such as carboxymethylcellulose, does not always correspond to the activity against the natural lignocellulosic material. Besides that, the macroscopic characteristics of the raw material, such as insolubility and heterogeneity, hinder its use for high throughput screenings.

Results

In this paper, we present the preparation of a colloidal suspension of particles obtained from sugarcane bagasse, with minimal chemical change in the lignocellulosic material, and demonstrate its use for high throughput assays of hydrolases using Brazilian termites as the screened organisms.

Conclusions

Important differences between the use of the natural substrate and commercial cellulase substrates, such as carboxymethylcellulose or crystalline cellulose, were observed. This suggests that wood feeding termites, in contrast to litter feeding termites, might not be the best source for enzymes that degrade sugarcane biomass.
Detection of DNA mismatch repair proteins in fresh human blood lymphocytes - towards a novel method for hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome) screening
Authors: Hassen Samar , Boman Bruce M , Ali Nawab , Parker Marcie , Somerman Chandra , Ali-Khan Catts Zohra J , Ali Akhtar A , Fields Jeremy Z
Published: November 2011

Background

A broad population-based assay to detect individuals with Lynch Syndrome (LS) before they develop cancer would save lives and healthcare dollars via cancer prevention. LS is caused by a germline mutation in a DNA mismatch repair (MMR) gene, especially protein truncation-causing mutations involving MSH2 or MLH1. We showed that immortalized lymphocytes from LS patients have reduced levels of full-length MLH1 or MSH2 proteins. Thus, it may be feasible to identify LS patients in a broad population-based assay by detecting reduced levels of MMR proteins in lymphocytes.

Methods

Accordingly, we determined whether MSH2 and MLH1 proteins can also be detected in fresh lymphocytes. A quantitative western blot assay was developed using two commercially available monoclonal antibodies that we showed are specific for detecting full-length MLH1 or MSH2. To directly determine the ratio of the levels of these MMR proteins, we used both antibodies in a multiplex-type western blot.

Results

MLH1 and MSH2 levels were often not detectable in fresh lymphocytes, but were readily detectable if fresh lymphocytes were first stimulated with PHA. In fresh lymphocytes from normal controls, the MMR ratio was ~1.0. In fresh lymphocytes from patients (N > 50) at elevated risk for LS, there was a bimodal distribution of MMR ratios (range: 0.3-1.0).

Conclusions

Finding that MMR protein levels can be measured in fresh lymphocytes, and given that cells with heterozygote MMR mutations have reduced levels of full-length MMR proteins, suggests that our immunoassay could be advanced to a quantitative test for screening populations at high risk for LS.
Translational research in sepsis - an ultimate challenge?
Authors: Kampmeier Tim G , Ertmer Christian , Rehberg Sebastian
Published: November 2011

In the era of evidence-based medicine, large, randomized, controlled, multicenter studies represent the "summit of evidence". In contrast to specialties like cardiology, the majority of randomized, controlled trials in critical care medicine, however, have failed to demonstrate a survival benefit; notably, despite encouraging results from experimental and phase-II clinical studies. The difficulty in translating our theoretical knowledge into successful multicenter randomized, controlled trials and subsequent treatment recommendations may represent one reason, why the mortality of septic shock still averages between 40-60%, although our knowledge about the underlying pathophysiology has considerably increased and international guidelines have widely been implemented. The present article elucidates some of the difficulties in translating research from bench to bedside.
Increased liver stiffness denotes hepatic dysfunction and mortality risk in critically ill non-cirrhotic patients at a medical ICU
Authors: Koch Alexander , Horn Andreas , Dückers Hanna , Yagmur Eray , Sanson Edouard , Bruensing Jan , Buendgens Lukas , Voigt Sebastian , Trautwein Christian , Tacke Frank
Published: November 2011

Introduction

Hepatic dysfunction is a common finding in critically ill patients on the ICU and directly influences survival. Liver stiffness can be measured by the novel method of transient elastography (fibroscan) and is closely associated with hepatic fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease, but also is increased in patients with acute hepatitis, acute liver failure and cholestasis. We investigated liver stiffness as a potentially useful tool for early detection of patients with hepatic deterioration and risk stratification with respect to short- and long-term mortality.

Methods

We prospectively evaluated 108 consecutive critically ill patients at our medical intensive care unit (ICU) with subsequent longitudinal liver stiffness measurements (admission, Day 3, Day 7 and weekly thereafter) during the course of ICU treatment. Outcome was followed after discharge (median observation time 237 days).

Results

Liver stiffness could be reliably measured in 71% of ICU patients at admission (65% at Day 3, 63% at Day 7). Critically ill patients (n = 108) had significantly increased liver stiffness compared to sex- and age-matched standard care patients (n = 25). ICU patients with decompensated cirrhosis showed highest liver stiffness, whereas other critical diseases (for example, sepsis) and comorbidities (for example, diabetes, obesity) did not impact stiffness values. At admission to the ICU, liver stiffness is closely related to hepatic damage (liver synthesis, cholestasis, fibrosis markers). During the course of ICU treatment, fluid overload (renal failure, volume therapy) and increased central venous pressure (mechanical ventilation, heart failure) were major factors determining liver stiffness. Liver stiffness values > 18 kilopascal (kPa) at ICU admission were associated with increased ICU and long-term mortality, even in non-cirrhotic patients.

Conclusions

Considering that liver stiffness cannot be validly measured in about 30% of ICU patients, transient elastography performed at ICU admission might be a useful tool to early identify liver dysfunction and predict mortality in critically ill patients at a medical ICU.
Identifying critically ill patients who benefit the most from nutrition therapy: the development and initial validation of a novel risk assessment tool
Authors: Heyland Daren K , Dhaliwal Rupinder , Jiang Xuran , Day Andrew G
Published: November 2011

Introduction

To develop a scoring method for quantifying nutrition risk in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

A prospective, observational study of patients expected to stay > 24 hours. We collected data for key variables considered for inclusion in the score which included: age, baseline APACHE II, baseline SOFA score, number of comorbidities, days from hospital admission to ICU admission, Body Mass Index (BMI) < 20, estimated % oral intake in the week prior, weight loss in the last 3 months and serum interleukin-6 (IL-6), procalcitonin (PCT), and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Approximate quintiles of each variable were assigned points based on the strength of their association with 28 day mortality.

Results

A total of 597 patients were enrolled in this study. Based on the statistical significance in the multivariable model, the final score used all candidate variables except BMI, CRP, PCT, estimated percentage oral intake and weight loss. As the score increased, so did mortality rate and duration of mechanical ventilation. Logistic regression demonstrated that nutritional adequacy modifies the association between the score and 28 day mortality (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

This scoring algorithm may be helpful in identifying critically ill patients most likely to benefit from aggressive nutrition therapy.
Integrated seismic texture segmentation and cluster analysis applied to channel delineation and chert reservoir characterization
Authors: de Matos Marcilio Castro , Yenugu Malleswar (Moe) , Angelo Sipuikinene Miguel , Marfurt Kurt J.
Published: November 2011

In recent years, 3D volumetric attributes have gained wide acceptance by seismic interpreters. The early introduction of the single-trace complex trace attribute was quickly followed by seismic sequence attribute mapping workflows. Three-dimensional geometric attributes such as coherence and curvature are also widely used. Most of these attributes correspond to very simple, easy-to-understand measures of a waveform or surface morphology. However, not all geologic features can be so easily quantified. For this reason, simple statistical measures of the seismic waveform such as rms amplitude and texture analysis techniques prove to be quite valuable in delineating more chaotic stratigraphy. In this paper, we coupled structure-oriented texture analysis based on the gray-level co-occurrence matrix with self-organizing maps clustering technology and applied it to classify seismic textures. By this way, we expect that our workflow should be more sensitive to lateral changes, rather than vertical changes, in reflectivity. We applied the methodology to a remote sensing image and to a 3D seismic survey acquired over Osage County, Oklahoma, USA. Our results indicate that our method can be used to delineate meandering channels as well as to characterize chert reservoirs.
Source-independent time-domain waveform inversion using convolved wavefields: Application to the encoded multisource waveform inversion
Authors: Choi Yunseok , Alkhalifah Tariq
Published: November 2011

Full waveform inversion requires a good estimation of the source wavelet to improve our chances of a successful inversion. This is especially true for an encoded multisource time-domain implementation, which, conventionally, requires separate-source modeling, as well as the Fourier transform of wavefields. As an alternative, we have developed the source-independent time-domain waveform inversion using convolved wavefields. Specifically, the misfit function consists of the convolution of the observed wavefields with a reference trace from the modeled wavefield, plus the convolution of the modeled wavefields with a reference trace from the observed wavefield. In this case, the source wavelet of the observed and the modeled wavefields are equally convolved with both terms in the misfit function, and thus, the effects of the source wavelets are eliminated. Furthermore, because the modeled wavefields play a role of low-pass filtering, the observed wavefields in the misfit function, the frequency-selection strategy from low to high can be easily adopted just by setting the maximum frequency of the source wavelet of the modeled wavefields; and thus, no filtering is required. The gradient of the misfit function is computed by back-propagating the new residual seismograms and applying the imaging condition, similar to reverse-time migration. In the synthetic data evaluations, our waveform inversion yields inverted models that are close to the true model, but demonstrates, as predicted, some limitations when random noise is added to the synthetic data. We also realized that an average of traces is a better choice for the reference trace than using a single trace.
Fourier finite-difference wave propagation
Authors: Song Xiaolei , Fomel Sergey
Published: November 2011

We introduce a novel technique for seismic wave extrapolation in time. The technique involves cascading a Fourier transform operator and a finite-difference operator to form a chain operator: Fourier finite differences (FFD). We derive the FFD operator from a pseudoanalytical solution of the acoustic wave equation. Two-dimensional synthetic examples demonstrate that the FFD operator can have high accuracy and stability in complex-velocity media. Applying the FFD method to the anisotropic case overcomes some disadvantages of other methods, such as the coupling of qP-waves and qSV-waves. The FFD method can be applied to enhance accuracy and stability of seismic imaging by reverse time migration.
Compression and shear-wave velocities in discrete particle simulations of quartz granular packings: Improved Hertz-Mindlin contact model
Authors: Santos Carlos , Urdaneta Vanessa , García Xavier , Medina Ernesto
Published: November 2011

The Hertz-Mindlin (HM) contact model has been a cornerstone for the development of several effective medium theories (EMTs) aimed at describing the mesoscopic and macroscopic mechanical behavior of granular materials like unconsolidated sands. In addition, this model is at the core of most of the discrete particle method designs used to numerically solve for the responses of these heterogeneous materials to external perturbations, like acoustic and stress-strain experiments. However, this model has shown shortcomings in the description of the shear response characterization of granular materials, partly due to the non-affine motions experienced by the grains. We have developed a correction of the model based on a detailed calibration of our acoustic numerical results with previous empirical data. Using a microscopic approach to the grain-grain contact surfaces, the nature of the corrections found appear to be related to the shear resistant asperities and the smaller scale of the grain-grain contact areas compared to the total area assumed by the HM model. An improved HM model characterized by a tangential stiffness weakening is based on these surface corrections. Using this observation an enhanced EMT theory emerges based not only on the tangential stiffness modification but also on the velocity-pressure dependence obtained during the calibration of our numerical model.
A new recombinant human apolipoprotein E mimetic peptide with high-density lipoprotein binding and function enhancing activity
Authors: Zhao Wentao , Du Fen , Zhang Michelle , Sun Shengfang , Yu Hong , Fan Daping
Published: November 2011

We generated a novel human apolipoprotein E (apoE)-mimetic peptide, designated EpK. EpK contains an N-terminal cysteine residue, a low-density lipoprotein receptor-binding fragment, a 6 × lysine linker and a lipid-binding fragment. The recombinant peptide was expressed in Escherichia coli, and purified with a chitin bead column followed by a Heparin Sepharose CL-6B column to yield pure peptide. EpK displayed high solubility in aqueous solution at neutral pH and adopted a low content of α-helical structure which was significantly increased in 2,2,2-trifluoroethanol or upon lipid binding. EpK retained similar 1,2-dimyristoyl(d54)-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine binding activity as human apoE3 albeit with slower kinetics. Cell culture studies showed that EpK mediated cholesterol efflux from cholesterol-loaded primary murine macrophages with higher mass-based efficiency than human apoAI and human apoE3, and that EpK inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced proinflammatory cytokine expression in murine macrophages. When injected into apoE−/−mice, EpK predominantly associated with high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which was also shown in in vitro incubation experiments. Moreover, association of EpK with HDL enhanced the ability of HDL in mediating cholesterol efflux and suppressing LPS-induced proinflammatory cytokine expression in cholesterol-loaded human acute monocytic leukemia cell line (THP-1) macrophages. These data suggest that this novel recombinant apoE mimetic peptide enhances HDL function and harbors antiatherogenic potential.
Evaluation of Herbicides and Mowing on Catbriar (Smilax bona-nox) in Oklahoma Rangeland
Authors: Funderburg Eddie , Locke James , Biermacher Jon
Published: November 2011

Catbriar can be problematic to ranchers who graze rangeland. Five field studies of 2 yr duration were conducted during the 2007 to 2010 growing seasons to evaluate the effects of mowing and foliar-applied herbicides on the control of catbriar in Oklahoma rangeland. Without mowing, a formulated mixture of triclopyr and fluroxypyr (2.7 and 0.9 g ae L−1) and triclopyr alone (2.4 g ae L−1) applied at a volume of approximately 720 L ha−1twice over 2 yr consecutively controlled catbriar 69 and 71% (visual rating), respectively. Relative to the untreated control, these two treatments reduced the number of live catbriar stems 53 and 64% at the final evaluation, respectively. Mowing without herbicide was equally as effective as any herbicide treatment in reducing the catbriar population. The effects of herbicide were independent of mowing (i.e., the two experimental variables were noninteractive). If infested areas can be mowed, adding herbicide is not necessary to reduce catbriar population.
Comparison of Weed Management Programs for Furrow-Irrigated and Flooded Hybrid Rice Production in Arkansas
Authors: Bagavathiannan Muthukumar V. , Norsworthy Jason K. , Scott Robert C.
Published: November 2011

Whether season-long weed control can be achieved in a furrow-irrigated rice system with similar herbicide inputs to that of a flooded system is not known. Field experiments were conducted in 2007 and 2008 at Pine Tree, AR to evaluate different herbicide programs on the weed control efficacy and rice grain yield in furrow-irrigated and flooded rice production systems. Six herbicide programs were evaluated with and without additional late-season “as-needed” herbicide treatments. Minor injury to rice was noted for quinclorac plus propanil. However, the injury was transient and the plants fully recovered. Overall weed control was greater in the flooded system compared with the furrow-irrigated system (up to 20% greater), because flooding effectively prevented the emergence of most terrestrial weeds. In addition, rice grain yields were 13 to 14% greater in flooded compared with furrow-irrigated plots. Irrespective of the irrigation system, herbicide programs that contained a PRE-applied herbicide provided greater weed control and resulted in greater yield compared with those that did not contain PRE-applied herbicide, indicative of the importance of early-season weed control in achieving higher grain yields. On the basis of weed control, yield, and weed treatment cost, the herbicide program with clomazone PRE followed by propanil at four- to five-leaf rice was more efficient than other programs evaluated in both irrigation systems. However, furrow-irrigated plots required as-needed herbicide applications, which were applied after the four- to five-leaf rice stage when two or more plots within a program exhibited ≤ 80% control for any of the weed species. This suggests that furrow-irrigated rice production demands additional weed management efforts and thereby increases production costs. There is also a possibility for substantial yield reduction in the furrow-irrigated system compared with the flooded system. Nevertheless, furrow-irrigated rice production can still be a viable option under water-limiting situations and under certain topographic conditions.
The High-Risk Infant Is Going Home: What Now?
Authors: McMurray Jennifer
Published: November 2011

EACH YEAR APPROXIMATELY 460,000 infants—nearly 12 percent of all babies born in the U.S.—are born prematurely.1Technological advances in the medical and nursing care of premature infants over the past decade have increased survival rates among preterm newborns, especially of very low birth weight (VLBW) infants. Survival rates are as high as 49 percent for infants weighing 501–750 gm at birth, 85 percent for infants weighing 751–1,000 gm, 93 percent for infants weighing 1,001–1,250 gm, and 96 percent for infants weighing 1,251–1,500 gm.2Although 50–60 percent of VLBW infants have normal outcomes, morbidity rates range from 40 to 50 percent.3Because of this incidence of morbidity, premature infants require comprehensive primary care follow-up after discharge from the NICU.
Inhaled Nitric Oxide Therapy in the Near-Term or Term Neonate with Hypoxic Respiratory Failure
Authors: Williams Leslie , Shaffer Thomas , Greenspan Jay
Published: November 2011

Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) has altered the management strategy for treating near-term and term infants with hypoxic respiratory failure (HRF) There is a strong relationship between HRF and persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN). PPHN is characterized by elevated pulmonary resistance, pulmonary vasoconstriction, and altered vascular reactivity. The resulting high pulmonary pressure may lead to HRF, which is defined as a relative deficiency of oxygen in arterial blood and insufficient minute ventilation. iNO improves oxygenation and decreases the need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Although iNO therapy is effective, its efficacy can depend on the fine points of its use and on other care the infant is receiving. Even in NICUs that do not have iNO available, those who care for term infants with HRF must be familiar with its use and know when and how to transfer these infants and how to help families through this difficult period. Because iNO therapy will probably be used more frequently in nurseries over the next few years, more information on the safety and efficacy of its use in the broader neonatal population needs to be available.
The Australian Safe-n-Sound Baby Safety Capsule and Its Effect on Oxygen Saturation Values in Infants Ready for Discharge Home
Authors: Dawson Jennifer Anne , Stainton M. Colleen
Published: November 2011

Purpose:To examine the effect of the Australian Safe-n- Sound Baby Safety Capsule (BSC) on oxygen saturation (SpO2) values of preterm and term infants ready for discharge home.

Design:A two-group pretest/posttest quasi-experimental study compared the effect of the BSC on SpO2.

Sample:Thirty-nine low birth weight premature newborn infants and 19 term newborn infants ready for discharge home.

Main outcome variable:Mean oxygen saturation values and the number of oxygen desaturation events below 90 percent.

Results:The mean SpO2values for both preterm and term infants were within the normal range (>90–100 percent) for each phase of data collection (baseline, capsule, and recovery). However, mean SpO2values decreased from baseline during the 60 minutes spent in the BSC for the preterm infants.
News of The Academy of Neonatal Nursing
Authors: Davis Deborah Winders
Published: November 2011

Membership in The Academy of Neonatal Nursing has been gradually increasing to the current level of 7,078 members. The National Advanced Practice Neonatal Nurses Conference, sponsored by the Academy, which took place April 16–18, 2004, in St. Louis, was very well received. Some of the speakers who the attendees really enjoyed were Dr. Sherry Courtney, who spoke on various respiratory issues; Dr. Luciana Young, who spoke on cardiac topics; Dr. Susan Abdel-Rahman, who spoke on developmental pharmacokinetics; and Jeanne Giebe, MSN, NNP who spoke on DIC. There were many other great speakers at the conference, including: Dr. Martin Keszler, Dr. F. Sessions Cole, Dr. Brian Ohning, and Dr. Carol Trotter. A copy of the program for this conference can be found in the November/December 2003 issue of Neonatal Network.®
Intrauterine Infections
Authors: Askin Debbie Fraser
Published: November 2011

Editor’s Note: This information is excerpted from the chapter, “Intrauterine Infections,” in the new book: Infection in the Neonate: A Comprehensive Guide to Assessment, Management, and Nursing Care. Ordering information can be found on the facing page, or you may order online at: www.neonatalnetwork.com/nicuink.
New and Old
Authors: Burkes Chaplain Norris
Published: November 2011

IN THE NICU, WE SEE LIFE IN the earliest viable beginnings. So perhaps we know better than some the wisdom in the sacred writing from Ecclesiastes: “There is a time to every purpose under the heaven; a time to be born, and a time to die.” NICU nurses also know that the time between birth and death can be frightfully short, which might explain the dedication they have toward lengthening that fragile period. While struggling to understand how we find meaning in such a brief life, however, we should note that the NICU is not the only place in the hospital where time’s fragility can be appreciated.
Foster Families Who Care for Infants with Prenatal Drug Exposure: Support During the Transition from NICU to Home
Authors: Marcellus Lenora
Published: November 2011

Infants exposed prenatally to drugs and alcohol tend to enter the child welfare system at a younger age than many other foster children and often directly from the hospital following birth. This article examines three concepts from the postpartum family adaptation literature: transition to parenthood, maternal and paternal role identities, and attachment. It applies these concepts to the experiences of foster parents who care for infants with prenatal drug and alcohol exposure. Also reviewed are recommended strategies to promote development of the foster parent–infant relationship and to increase parental knowledge within the NICU setting and during the period of transition from hospital to home. Nurses within the NICU have a unique knowledge and experience of caring for infants in withdrawal. This knowledge needs to be shared beyond the hospital with community professionals, who may have limited training in infant health, mental health, or development.
Staff R & R: Rewards and Recognitions That Work
Authors: Simons Sherri Lee
Published: November 2011

IN HEALTH CARE SETTINGS SUCH as the NICU, nurses are trained to notice problems, detect untoward signs and symptoms of disease processes, and react to systems failures and crises on a regular basis. Indeed, NICU nurses are professionally trained to be problem detectives. Unfortunately, consistently focusing on negative issues does not provide a strong foundation for a positive work environment.1
Recent Findings from the National Institute of Nursing Research Related to Neonatal Care
Authors: Bingham Raymond J.
Published: November 2011

WORKING WITH PRETERM OR SICK INFANTS IN AN intensive care setting involves interdisciplinary teamwork and nursing professionalism. The growing importance of genetic testing in health care is generating concerns that can affect the lives of patients well beyond the period of infancy. New information on antenatal care can help those involved in the care of pregnant women to anticipate potential problems and improve pregnancy outcomes. Ongoing research is continuing to deepen our understanding of preterm infants, helping neonatal nurses to improve care procedures, work with parents and families, and address concerns of infant development.
Gastroesophageal Reflux and Prokinetic Agents
Authors: Hammer Davita
Published: November 2011

GASTROESOPHAGEAL REFLUX (GER), a common problem in preterm and term infants, occurs when there is retrograde movement of gastric contents into the esophagus. The severity of the reflux is related to the height of the gastric contents up into the esophagus or the oral pharynx. Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation is the main mechanism thought to be responsible for GER in infants.1–3In a study conducted by Marino and associates, approximately 60 percent of preterm infants were affected by reflux.4GER is associated with irritability, apnea and bradycardia, poor weight gain, aspiration pneumonia, and esophagitis.2,5–7
Use of Percutaneous Central Venous Catheters versus Peripheral Catheters; Impact of Body Positioning on GER; A Latina Mother’s Experience in the NICU
Authors: McCain Gail
Published: November 2011

This column highlights selected research abstracts from published studies and systematic reviews about neonatal care. The original abstracts, from peer reviewed journals, are followed with a commentary by the column editor. The goal of this column is to inform the readers of Neonatal Network:® The Journal of Neonatal Nursing about the most up-to-date research evidence for use in neonatal nursing practice. If you would like to see a particular research publication, research review, or research-based guideline in this column, please advise the column editor (E-mail: gmccain.com).
Pivotal Moments in Nursing: Leaders Who Changed the Path of a Profession
Authors: Houser Beth , Player Kathy
Published: November 2011

Pivotal Moments in Nursing is a collection of biographies of contemporary nursing leaders and innovators. The authors profile 12 nurses who contributed to the profession and became recognized as legends in the field. Readers will be familiar with some of the names, such as Loretta Ford, who initiated the nurse practitioner role, and Rheba De Tornyay, whom many nurse leaders identify as the person who has had the most influence on today’s national nursing education programs.
A Review of Harlequin Ichthyosis
Authors: Layton Lt. Jason
Published: November 2011

Harlequin ichthyosis is an extremely rare and historically lethal congenital disorder of the skin caused by abnormal keratinization. This article reviews the embryology and currently understood pathophysiology of the disease, as well as current methods used to diagnose and treat these infants. There are serious implications for the family to consider: the high risk that their newborn will die soon, as well as future family planning issues.
How Do I Get Started Building a Neonatal Nursing Career?
Authors: Askin Debbie Fraser
Published: November 2011

“I’D LIKE TO WRITE AN ARTICLE, BUT I DON’T KNOW where to start.” This is a common theme in e-mails I get from prospective authors. Fair enough; the process of getting an article from conception to publication can appear daunting. This is one of the reasons that Neonatal Network® is committed to working with new authors, helping translate their curiosity and expertise into solid, practical articles that can benefit neonatal nurses. This is balanced by articles from seasoned researchers and authors who also choose Neonatal Network® as a vehicle for disseminating new knowledge and ensuring that this knowledge is available to the practice community.
Yet Another Degree for the Nursing Profession
Authors: McCain Gail
Published: November 2011

THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF COLLEGES OF NURSING (AACN) issued a position statement on the practice doctorate in nursing in October of 2004.1 It proposes a terminal professional degree, doctor of nursing practice (DNP), to replace the master’s degree in nursing as preparation for advanced practice nursing. Advanced practice nursing refers to certified nurse practitioners (e.g., neonatal nurse practitioners), certified nurse midwives, certified nurse anesthetists, and clinical nurse specialists.
Nursing Care of the Premature Infant with Severe Combined Immunodeficiency Disease
Authors: Carter Brigit
Published: November 2011

Diagnosis and treatment of severe combined immunodeficiency disease (SCID) is documented in fetuses, term infants, and older children; however, there is very little information on its diagnosis and treatment in premature infants. When Duke University Medical Center’s first preterm infant with a known SCID history was delivered, in June 1999, there was no defined protocol for the infant’s nursing care. Although many of the guidelines for nursing care of the premature infant population (≤36 weeks) apply, there are important considerations for preterm infants with an SCID diagnosis. This article provides background on SCID and identifies those special considerations—namely, multidisciplinary communication, infection prevention, thorough physical assessments, and parental support.
Letters
Authors: Harbold Lorraine , Appel Julie , Copelan David
Published: November 2011

I read with interest, the January/February, 2006 (Vol. 25, No. 1) article, “Implementation of an Enteral Nutrition and Medication Administration System Utilizing Oral Syringes in the NICU.” The inadvertent administration of an enteral product intravenously is certainly a safety concern for all NICUs. Our institution began addressing this more than a decade ago by first converting all oral medications to a unit dose system dispensed only in oral syringes. I was surprised by the incompatibility between oral syringes and orogastric, nasogastric, or nasojejunal tubes, cited by the authors, as one of the contributing factors in preventing them from making this conversion. Over the years we have used several brands of NG/OG tubes that easily accommodate the intermittent use of oral syringes. They do not have luer-lok hubs that preclude the use of an oral syringe. The feeding tubes that we generally use for transpyloric placement (duodenal/jejunal), often have a medication port that easily accommodates an oral syringe.
Optimizing the Neonatal Thermal Environment
Authors: Sherman Tami Irwin , Greenspan Jay , St. Clair Nancy , Touch Suzanne , Shaffer Thomas
Published: November 2011

Devices used to maintain thermal stability in preterm infants have advanced over time from the first incubator reported by Jean-Louis-Paul Denuce in 1857 to the latest Versalet Incuwarmer and Giraffe Omnibed devices today. Optimizing the thermal environment has proven significant for improving the chances of survival for small infants. Understanding the basic physiologic principles and current methodology of thermoregulation is important in the clinical care of these tiny infants. This article highlights principles of thermoregulation and the technologic advances that provide thermal support to our vulnerable neonatal population.