bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of weight management interventions for people with serious mental illness who receive treatment with atypical antipsychotic medications. A literature review
Authors: LOWE T. , LUBOS E.
Published: November 2008

Weight gain associated with treatment with atypical antipsychotic medication has been widely recognized as a risk factor for the development of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. A systematic search was conducted of major databases and of citations for material about the effectiveness of weight management interventions for people with serious mental illness who receive treatment with atypical antipsychotic medications. Studies were included if the focus was on improvement in weight profile through the application of psychoeducational or exercise and dietary interventions and where outcome measures were reported and presented in recognized values. Out of 221 studies, 19 met the inclusion criteria and after assessment of the quality of the studies, eight were selected for detailed review.
Influence of administration route on the biotransformation of amoxicillin in the pig
Authors: REYNS T. , DE BOEVER S. , SCHAUVLIEGE S. , GASTHUYS F. , MEISSONNIER G. , OSWALD I. , DE BACKER P. , CROUBELS S.
Published: November 2008

A comparison was made in the plasma concentration of the major metabolites of amoxicillin (AMO), i.e. amoxicilloic acid (AMA) and amoxicillin diketopiperazine‐2′,5′‐dione (DIKETO) in portal and jugular venous plasma after oral (p.o.) and intravenous (i.v.) AMO administration to pigs, in order to study a possible presystemic degradation of AMO in the gastro‐intestinal tract and liver. Almost identical plasma concentration‐time curves were obtained for AMO and its metabolites in portal and jugular venous plasma, both after p.o. and i.v. AMO administration. Almost immediately after i.v. AMO administration, high AMA and DIKETO concentrations were measured in plasma, while after p.o. dosing, the metabolites appeared in plasma after almost complete absorption of AMO. No significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters of AMO, AMA and DIKETO, derived from the concentration‐time profiles in portal and jugular venous plasma were calculated, both after i.v. and p.o. AMO administration (P > 0.05). After p.o. administration, the half‐life of elimination (t1/2(el)) for AMA is at least two or three times thet1/2(el)of AMO (0.75 h for AMO vs. 2.69 h for AMA), indicating the slower clearance of the metabolite. It could be hypothesized that AMA is only eliminated by glomerular filtration, as its open β‐lactam structure might not be recognized by the transport carrier in the proximal tubule of the kidney. The results of the study indicate that AMO is not substantially metabolized presystemically in the gut and liver. Therefore, it may be assumed that the kidney may be the major organ for AMO biotransformation. Futurein vivoandin vitroexperiments should be performed to state this hypothesis.
Larvae of related Diptera species from thermally contrasting habitats exhibit continuous up‐regulation of heat shock proteins and high thermotolerance
Authors: GARBUZ DAVID G. , ZATSEPINA OLGA G. , PRZHIBORO ANDREY A. , YUSHENOVA IRINA , GUZHOVA IRINA V. , EVGEN’EV MICHAEL B.
Published: November 2008

A population of Stratiomys japonica, a species belonging to the family Stratiomyidae (Diptera), common name ‘soldier flies’, occurs in a hot volcanic spring, which is apparently among the most inhospitable environments for animals because of chemical and thermal conditions. Larvae of this species, which naturally often experience temperatures more than 40 °C, have constitutively high concentrations of the normally inducible heat‐shock protein Hsp70, but very low level of corresponding mRNA. Larvae of three other species of the same family, Stratiomys singularior, Nemotelus bipunctatus and Oxycera pardalina, are confined to different type semi‐aquatic habitats with contrasting thermal regime. However, all of them shared the same pattern of Hsp70 expression. Interestingly, heat‐shock treatment of S. japonica larvae activates heat‐shock factor and significantly induces Hsp70 synthesis, whereas larvae of O. pardalina, a species from constant cold environment, produce significantly less Hsp70 in response to heat shock. Adults of the four species also exhibit lower, but detectable levels of Hsp70 without heat shock. Larvae of all species studied have very high tolerance to temperature stress in comparison with other Diptera species investigated, probably representing an inherent adaptive feature of all Stratiomyidae enabling successful colonization of highly variable and extreme habitats.
Open‐ocean barriers to dispersal: a test case with the Antarctic Polar Front and the ribbon wormParborlasia corrugatus(Nemertea: Lineidae)
Authors: THORNHILL DANIEL J. , MAHON ANDREW R. , NORENBURG JON L. , HALANYCH KENNETH M.
Published: November 2008

Open‐ocean environments provide few obvious barriers to the dispersal of marine organisms. Major currents and/or environmental gradients potentially impede gene flow. One system hypothesized to form an open‐ocean dispersal barrier is the Antarctic Polar Front, an area characterized by marked temperature change, deep water, and the high‐flow Antarctic Circumpolar current. Despite these potential isolating factors, several invertebrate species occur in both regions, including the broadcast‐spawning nemertean wormParborlasia corrugatus. To empirically test for the presence of an open‐ocean dispersal barrier, we sampledP. corrugatusand other nemerteans from southern South America, Antarctica, and the sub‐Antarctic islands. Diversity was assessed by analyzing mitochondrial 16S rRNA and cytochromecoxidase subunit I sequence data with Bayesian inference andtcshaplotype network analysis. Appropriate neutrality tests were also employed. Although our results indicate a single well‐mixed lineage in Antarctica and the sub‐Antarctic, no evidence for recent gene flow was detected between this population and South AmericanP. corrugatus. Thus, even thoughP. corrugatuscan disperse over large geographical distances, physical oceanographic barriers (i.e. Antarctic Polar Front and Antarctic Circumpolar Current) between continents have likely restricted dispersal over evolutionary time. Genetic distances and haplotype network analysis between South American and Antarctic/sub‐AntarcticP. corrugatussuggest that these two populations are possibly two cryptic species.
OxyR tightly regulates catalase expression in Neisseria meningitidis through both repression and activation mechanisms
Authors: Ieva Raffaele , Roncarati Davide , Metruccio Matteo M. E. , Seib Kate L. , Scarlato Vincenzo , Delany Isabel
Published: November 2008

Mechanisms for coping with oxidative stress (OS) are crucial for the survival of pathogenic Neisseria spp. in the human host. In this study we investigate the mechanism by which OxyR finely regulates the catalase gene (kat) in Neisseria meningitidis. Detailed transcriptional analyses show that catalase is transcribed from a single promoter that is induced by H2O2 in an OxyR‐dependent manner and two key cysteine residues are essential for this. OxyR also represses the kat promoter: kat expression in the null mutant is at a constitutive intermediary level higher than uninduced, but lower than H2O2‐induced levels in the wild type. Our data are consistent with a model in which OxyR binds to the kat promoter and exerts: (i) repression of transcription in the absence of OS signal and (ii) activation of the promoter in response to OS signal. This direct double‐edged mechanism may ensure tight regulatory control of kat expression ensuring catalase is synthesized only when needed. In addition, our results provide an explanation for the altered OS resistance phenotypes seen in Neisseria mutant strains where, paradoxically, the oxyR mutants are more resistant than the wild type in oxidative killing assays.
Post‐transcriptional processing of the LEE4 operon in enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli
Authors: Lodato Patricia B. , Kaper James B.
Published: November 2008

Enterohaemorrhagic Escherichia coli (EHEC) employs a type III secretion system (T3SS) to export translocator and effector proteins required for mucosal colonization. The T3SS is encoded in a pathogenicity island called the locus of enterocyte effacement (LEE) that is organized in five major operons, LEE1 to LEE5. LEE4 encodes a regulator of secretion (SepL), translocators (EspA, D and B), two chaperones (CesD2 and L0017), a T3SS component (EscF) and an effector protein (EspF). It was originally proposed that the esp transcript is transcribed from a promoter located at the end of sepL but other authors suggested that this transcript is the result of a post‐transcriptional processing event. In this study, we established that the espADB mRNA is generated by post‐transcriptional processing at the end of the sepL coding sequence. RNase E is the endonuclease involved in the cleavage, but the interaction of this enzyme with other proteins through its C‐terminal half is dispensable. A putative transcription termination event in the cesD2 coding region would generate the 3′ end of the transcript. Similar to what has been described for other processed transcripts, the cleavage of LEE4 seems a mechanism to differentially regulate SepL and Esp protein production.
Monitoring the quality of maternity care: how well are labour and delivery events reported in population health data?
Authors: Roberts Christine L. , Bell Jane C. , Ford Jane B. , Morris Jonathan M.
Published: November 2008

Administrative or population health data sets (PHDS), such as birth and hospital discharge data, are used increasingly to evaluate maternity care. Use of PHDS requires reliable identification of diagnoses and procedures. The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy and reliability of the reporting of diagnoses and procedures related to childbirth in both individual and linked, birth and ICD10‐coded hospital discharge data. Data from a population‐based validation study of 1200 women provided the ‘gold standard’ for labour and delivery events and were compared with the hospital discharge and birth databases. Reporting characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values) were determined for: induction, augmentation and obstruction of labour, modes of delivery (including failed instrumental delivery), episiotomy, perineal tears and repairs, and manual removal of the placenta. Differences in reporting by mode of delivery were also examined.

Of the 1184 records available for review, 25% had labour induced, 25% had labour augmented and, of those who laboured, 17% had obstructed labour reported. Fourteen per cent had an elective/planned caesarean section (CS) including 2% that went into labour prior to the planned date, and 11% had an emergency, unplanned CS including 2% who had no labour. With the exception of augmentation and obstruction of labour, failed instrumental delivery and manual removal, there were high levels of accuracy for reporting of diagnoses and procedures during labour and delivery. There were no significant differences in reporting by mode of delivery. The findings suggest that PHDS‐reported induction of labour, mode of delivery, and 3rd and 4th degree tears and repairs can be reliably used to evaluate maternity care. Consistency in reporting in birth and hospital discharge data from different countries and over time suggests the findings are likely to be generalisable to high‐income countries.
Association between maternal seafood consumption before pregnancy and fetal growth: evidence for an association in overweight women. The EDEN mother‐child cohort
Authors: Drouillet Peggy , Kaminski Monique , De Lauzon‐Guillain Blandine , Forhan Anne , Ducimetière Pierre , Schweitzer Michel , Magnin Guillaume , Goua Valérie , Thiébaugeorges Olivier , Charles Marie‐Aline
Published: November 2008

Studies in countries with high seafood consumption have shown a benefit on fetal growth and child development. The objective of our study was to determine the association between seafood consumption in French pregnant women and fetal growth. Pregnant women included in the EDEN mother‐child cohort study completed two food frequency questionnaires on their usual diet in the year before and during the last 3 months of pregnancy (n = 1805). Fetal circumferences were measured by ultrasound and anthropometry at birth. Variables were compared across tertiles of the mother's seafood consumption using multiple linear regression to adjust for confounding variables. Analyses were stratified by maternal overweight status because of an interaction between maternal seafood consumption and her body mass index (P < 0.01).

There was no association between seafood intake and fetal growth in the whole sample of women. For overweight women (n = 464), higher consumption of seafood before pregnancy was associated with higher fetal biparietal and abdominal circumferences and anthropometric measures. From the lowest to the highest tertiles, mean birthweight was 167 g higher (P = 0.002). No significant association was found with consumption at the end of pregnancy. In conclusion, high seafood consumption before pregnancy is positively associated with fetal growth in overweight women.
The joint effects of maternal prepregnancy body mass index and age on the risk of gastroschisis
Authors: Siega‐Riz Anna Maria , Herring Amy H. , Olshan Andrew F. , Smith Joanna , Moore Cynthia ,   The National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: November 2008

Young maternal age has been associated with an increased risk of gastroschisis, while high maternal weight status has been associated with a decreased risk. We were interested in investigating the joint effect of these two risk factors to identify thresholds in risk associated with body mass index (BMI) for a given age. Data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study included 464 case infants with gastroschisis and 4842 healthy controls. A generalised additive model with a bivariate spline for continuous maternal age and prepregnancy BMI was used to model the probability of gastroschisis.

The bivariate spline in BMI and maternal age was significantly associated with gastroschisis (P = 0.0001) after adjustment for study centre, maternal race/ethnicity, education, income and number of persons supported by income, smoking, alcohol use, vitamin use, vasoconstrictor medication use and gestational diabetes. The data indicate that women who are younger and who have lower BMI are at the greatest risk; a woman with a BMI of 17 who gives birth at age 15 has 7 times the odds (adjusted odds ratio = 7.0 [95% CI 4.2, 11.5]) of having an offspring with gastroschisis compared with a woman of age 24 with a BMI of 23. Furthermore, there was an interaction between maternal age and BMI for this risk. The increased risk of low maternal age and prepregnancy BMI associated with gastroschisis appears to suggest an aetiological role related to biological immaturity for this particular birth defect.
Absence of fumarate hydratase mutation in a family with cutaneous leiomyosarcoma and renal cancer
Authors: Badeloe Sadhanna , Van Geest Adrienne J. , Van Marion Ariënne M. W. , Frank Jorge
Published: November 2008

A 41‐year‐old man was diagnosed with a cutaneous leiomyosarcoma on the left shoulder. Family history revealed that his brother had died of a metastatic kidney tumor at young age. Although apparently rare, the familial occurrence of cutaneous leiomyosarcoma with renal cancer has been described in the context of hereditary cutaneous leiomyomatosis and renal cell cancer (HLRCC). This rare genetic syndrome is caused by heterozygous mutations in the fumarate hydratase (FH) gene. Hence, the manifestation of these two rare malignancies within one family was strongly suggestive of a common underlying genetic defect. However, mutation analysis in the FH gene excluded HLRCC in this family. Although the familial occurrence of these rare tumors might be coincidental, it cannot be ruled out that, beside FH, mutations in another as yet unknown gene could give rise to both leiomyosarcoma and kidney cancer.
Brooke–Spiegler syndrome complicated by unilateral hearing loss
Authors: Parren Lizelotte J. M. T. , Bauer Boris , Hamm Henning , Frank Jorge
Published: November 2008

Brooke–Spiegler syndrome is an autosomal dominant tumor predisposition disorder. The disease is characterized by the occurrence of multiple skin appendage tumors, including cylindroma, trichoepithelioma, and spiradenoma. In some patients, tumors cover the entire head circumference, thereby causing disfigurement and other complications. Here, we report on a man with multiple cylindroma that were distributed in a turban tumor‐like fashion. One of these neoplasms arose in the meatus externus of the right ear leading to unilateral hearing loss, a complication that has been documented only on few occasions in this disease.
Rapid full engraftment and successful immune reconstitution after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with reduced intensity conditioning in Omenn syndrome
Authors: Gozdzik Jolanta , Czogala Wojciech , Skoczen Szymon , Krasowska‐Kwiecien Aleksandra , Wiecha Oktawiusz , Mordel Anna , Lesko Ewa , Majka Marcin , Kowalczyk Danuta , Zembala Marek
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  OS is a variant of SCID characterized by generalized erythroderma, alopecia, eosinophilia, and elevated IgE levels. It is fatal unless treated with allogeneic HSCT, which is the only curative approach. However, treatment related complications and graft rejection are major obstacles to the success of treatment. In this report, we describe a patient with OS, complicated by prolonged cytomegalovirus infection, successfully treated by reduced intensity conditioning allogeneic HSCT from sibling donor.
Calcineurin‐inhibitor free immunosuppression with mycophenolate mofetil and corticosteroids in paediatric renal transplantation improves renal allograft function without increasing acute rejection
Authors: Krischock L. , Gullett A. , Bockenhauer D. , Rees L. , Trompeter R. S. , Marks S. D.
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to determine whether CNIs can be safely withdrawn in paediatric patients with declining renal allograft function receiving MMF and corticosteroids for long‐term immunosuppression following renal transplantation. We performed a retrospective review of paediatric renal transplant recipients who received MMF with corticosteroids at least three months after transplantation with or without CNI in a single centre. Thirty‐eight children (71% male), mean age 7.2 ± 3.7 yr received MMF and corticosteroids, with 29 (76%) receiving a CNI. Mean follow‐up was 59.2 ± 42 months post‐MMF commencement and 109 ± 98.8 months post‐transplantation. Patient and renal allograft survival were 100% and 94%, respectively. There was a significant improvement in eGFR after MMF introduction both in children on a CNI and those where the CNI was withdrawn, with stabilisation of eGFR after two yr. There was no significant difference in the number of acute rejection episodes prior to or following introduction of MMF between the groups. MMF in combination with corticosteroids is a safe and effective immunosuppressive regimen in paediatric renal transplantation. Complete withdrawal of CNIs after conversion to MMF should be considered in all patients, to preserve renal function as evidenced by improved eGFR.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome and obesity in renal transplanted Mexican children
Authors: Ramirez‐Cortes Guadalupe , Fuentes‐Velasco Yolanda , García‐Roca Pilar , Guadarrama Omar , López Mónica , Valverde‐Rosas Saúl , Velásquez‐Jones Luis , Romero Benjamin , Toussaint Georgina , Medeiros Mara
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of MS and obesity in Mexican children with more than one yr post‐renal transplantation. Thirty‐two children transplanted between January 2004 and February 2006 were included in the study. The weight and height at the time of renal transplant were obtained. A fasting blood sample was drawn for serum creatinine, adiponectin, and complete lipid profile, and a three‐h glucose tolerance test was also taken. A complete nutritional evaluation was performed including anthropometry. There was a statistically significant increase in BMI at one yr post‐transplant that was maintained at two yr post‐transplant. Three patients exhibited obesity and were overweight. Seventeen patients had hypertension, 14 patients had low HDL, 12 patients had hypertriglyceridemia, all had normal fasting glucose, six of them had glucose intolerance, and two had waist circumference higher than 90%. Eight patients (25%) had MS. Patients with MS had higher proportion of deceased donor grafts, acute rejection episodes, and received more methylprednisolone pulses; also they had a statistically significant higher pretransplant BMI than patients without MS. There was a significant relationship between BMI at one yr post‐renal transplant and creatinine clearance estimated by Schwartz formula.
Neonates with severe infantile hepatic hemangioendothelioma: Limitations of liver transplantation
Authors: Grabhorn Enke , Richter Andrea , Fischer Lutz , Krebs‐Schmitt Dorothee , Ganschow Rainer
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  IHHE as the most common vascular tumor of the liver in infancy can present with acute postnatal liver and congestive heart failure. LTx may be a lifesaving option, but can be complicated by extrahepatic involvement and bleeding complications, especially in neonates. Here we discuss the benefit of LTx in cases of acute postnatal deterioration and massive extent of the hepatic tumor. Three infants with IHHE were transplanted at our institution between 2005 and 2007. Two were neonates with acute postnatal decompensation and progressive liver and heart failure within days. Treatment with steroids and chemotherapy was ineffective; resection surgery and interventional treatment were not considered appropriate. LTx was performed at the age of 7 and 24 days, respectively. An additional infant with a bilobar tumor that evolved more slowly was transplanted on day‐of‐life 56. Patients 1 and 2 had to be resuscitated during the LTx procedure because of massive bleeding and both died during the procedure. Patient 3 had a complicated post‐operative course but is doing well one‐yr post‐LTx. Neonates with extended hepatic and extrahepatic involvement of IHHE should be evaluated carefully prior to LTx. Whenever possible, alternative interventional treatment options should be considered.
Evaluation of reproductive functions in male adolescents following renal transplantation
Authors: Koyun Mustafa , Baysal Yunus Emre , Usta Mustafa Faruk , Akman Sema , Güven Ayfer Gür
Published: November 2008

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to analyze the semen variables and hormone profiles in kidney transplanted male adolescents. Eight post‐pubertal male patients who underwent successful renal tx during the peripubertal period and who had ESRD during childhood were enrolled in the study. Patients who underwent tx before 14 yr old (group I) and patients who underwent tx after 14 yr old (group II) were evaluated separately. Semen was collected and analyzed. Serum levels of LH, FSH, and testosterone were measured and found to be normal in all patients except one. The mean age at the diagnosis of CKD was six yr and 13 yr in groups I and II, respectively. The mean age at the time of tx was 12 yr in the first and 17.8 yr in the second group. The patients in group I had received prednisone, cyclosporine A and azathioprine with a longer duration of time compared with patients in group II. Sperm counts (15.5 ± 15.7 vs. 82.3 ± 64.2 millions/mL) and sperm motilities (37.8 ± 30.9 vs. 57.8 ± 22.1%) were lower in group I than group II. Only one patient in group II had normal sperm parameters and azospermia was observed in one patient from group I. We conclude that the earlier onset and the longer duration of uremia, the more impairment of reproductive function. Also, it seems that duration of exposure to corticosteroids or cyclosporine combined with azathioprine contribute to sperm dysfunction in peripubertal transplanted boys.
Trichosporon mucoides fungemia in a liver transplant recipient: case report and review
Authors: Lacasse A. , Cleveland K.O.
Published: November 2008

Abstract: Four months after receiving an orthotopic liver transplant, a 51‐year‐old man was admitted for progressive liver failure and severe hepatocellular necrosis thought to be due to tacrolimus. During his hospitalization he experienced bloodstream infections including fungemia due to Trichosporon mucoides and prolonged undulating fever despite antifungal and antibacterial treatment. He underwent removal of the allograft and implantation of another liver. Fever continued postoperatively until therapy with posaconazole was initiated. Initiation of posaconazole led to clinical improvement until the patient's demise from bacteremic vancomycin‐resistant enterococcal peritonitis. Trichosporonosis appears to be an emerging fungal infection among immunocompromised individuals (including both hematological and solid organ transplant recipients). T. mucoides is a rare cause of systemic infection. When it occurs, trichosporonosis usually is associated with hematological malignancies and, to the best of our knowledge, has not been previously reported in a liver transplant recipient. The optimal treatment is not well defined. We report here the first case using posaconazole for treatment of trichosporonosis in a liver transplant recipient caused by T. mucoides.
HSP70 expression in the Copper butterfly Lycaena tityrus across altitudes and temperatures
Authors: KARL I. , SØRENSEN J. G. , LOESCHCKE V. , FISCHER K.
Published: November 2008

The ability to express heat‐shock proteins (HSP) under thermal stress is an essential mechanism for ectotherms to cope with unfavourable conditions. In this study, we investigate if Copper butterflies originating from different altitudes and/or being exposed to different rearing and induction temperatures show differences in HSP70 expression. HSP70 expression increased substantially at the higher rearing temperature in low‐altitude butterflies, which might represent an adaptation to occasionally occurring heat spells. On the other hand, high‐altitude butterflies showed much less plasticity in response to rearing temperatures, and overall seem to rely more on genetically fixed thermal stress resistance. Whether the latter indicates a higher vulnerability of high‐altitude populations to global warming needs further investigation. HSP70 expression increased with both colder and warmer induction temperatures.
Testing evolutionary stasis and trends in first lower molar shape of extinct Italian populations of Terricola savii (Arvicolidae, Rodentia) by means of geometric morphometrics
Authors: PIRAS P. , MARCOLINI F. , RAIA P. , CURCIO M. T. , KOTSAKIS T.
Published: November 2008

Extinct populations of Terricola savii have been investigated in order to analyse evolutionary stasis and correlation of first lower molar shape with climatic proxies by means of geometric morphometrics. Evolutionary stasis, its recognition and explanation are central topics in evolutionary paleobiology. In this study, tooth shape variation of the arvicolid T. savii has been analysed through time. In addition to explicit multivariate tests of stasis based on landmark and semi‐landmark geometric morphometrics, first lower molar M1 shape has been decomposed in orthogonal axes of variation and tested for correlation with climate changes. Multivariate tests were consistent with evolutionary stasis. Yet, according to univariate tests, the dominant dimension of shape variation shows a temporal trend well correlated with a climatic proxy, i.e. δ18O. The remaining variation does not show any trend. Adaptation to current climatic condition might occur even without affecting shape as a whole. Phenotypic plasticity of this species could be invoked to explain evolutionary stasis, as a long time pattern.
Inactivation of hepatitis A virus by heat and high hydrostatic pressure: variation among laboratory strains
Authors: Shimasaki N. , Kiyohara T. , Totsuka A. , Nojima K. , Okada Y. , Yamaguchi K. , Kajioka J. , Wakita T. , Yoneyama T.
Published: November 2008

Background and Objectives  Hepatitis A virus (HAV) transmission via contaminated blood products has been reported. Cell‐adapted HAV strains are generally used to confirm virus inactivation in manufacturing blood products, but the strains may differ in their sensitivity to inactivation treatment. To select an appropriate cell‐adapted HAV strain for virus validation, we compared the inactivation efficiency among four strains under two different physical inactivation treatments: heat and high hydrostatic pressure.

Materials and Methods  The cell‐adapted HAV strains used here were KRM238, KRM003 (subgenotype IIIB), KRM031 (IA), and TKM005 (IB). The strains were treated at 60°C for up to 10 h or under high hydrostatic pressure (up to 420 MPa). The reduction in HAV infectivity was measured by an immunofocus‐staining method.

Results  The heat treatment at 60°C for 10 h reduced HAV infectivity in the range of 3 to 5 log10 among the strains; KRM238 and TKM005 were harder to inactivate than the other two. The high hydrostatic pressure treatment at 420 MPa also reduced infectivity in the range of 3 to 5 log10 among the strains, and KRM031 was easier to inactivate than the other strains.

Conclusion  Heat treatment and high hydrostatic pressure treatment revealed differences in inactivation efficiencies among cell‐adapted HAV strains, and each strain reacted differently depending on the treatment. KRM238 may be the best candidate for virus validation to ensure the safety of blood products against viral contamination, as it is harder to inactivate and it replicates better in cell culture than the other strains.
Clinical and laboratory practices in investigation of suspected transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infection: a survey of Canadian hospitals
Authors: Traore A. N. , Delage G. , McCombie N. , Robillard P. , Heddle N. M. , Hyson C. , Goldman M.
Published: November 2008

Transfusion of a bacterially contaminated blood product can have serious consequences. We undertook an electronic survey of representative Canadian hospitals to determine current clinical and laboratory practices for investigating such reactions, prior to the development of national guidelines. There was considerable variability in symptoms and signs that would trigger investigation of possible contamination. The most frequent laboratory investigations performed were aerobic blood cultures of recipients and the residual component. If there is no residual product in the component bag, 36% of respondents would use a segment to perform testing. Guidelines could be helpful in improving and standardizing these practices.
Human immunodeficiency virus 1 subtypes detected in Scottish blood donors
Authors: Davidson F. , Yirrell D. L. , Lycett C. , Petrik J. , Dow B. C.
Published: November 2008

The aim of our study was to determine human immunodeficiency virus 1 subtypes in Scottish blood donors. We were able to document virus subtypes present in this population over a period of 19 years and examine associated risk factors where available. Subtype B was found to be the predominant cause of human immunodeficiency virus 1 infection in Scottish blood donors with subtype C increasing in this population after 2002. Non‐B subtypes were found mainly in heterosexuals but also in all other risk categories with the exception of men having sex with men (MSM). Within Scotland there is an increase in transmission via heterosexual contact and the consequential introduction of non‐B subtypes.
Hydration, sporoderm breaking and germination of Cupressus arizonica pollen
Authors: Chichiriccò G. , Spanò L. , Torraca G. , Tartarini A.
Published: November 2008

In vitro and in vivo rehydration and germination in Cupressus arizonica pollen were examined using light and scanning electron microscopy. Shed pollen has 12.6% water content, which reduced to 8.2% after dispersal, and this latter pollen survived for some months at room temperature and for years at −10 °C. Rehydration requires breaking of the sporoderm walls and depends on the composition and pH of the rehydration medium. Acidity restrains the breakage, while alkalinity promotes it. Pollen division follows exine shedding and requires the persistence of the mucilaginous layer; hence, pH values countering these outcomes prevent division. Division results in a large and a small cell separated by a callosic wall. A pollen tube develops from the innermost intine of the large cell, which is callosic, and extends into the mucilaginous middle intine. The percentage germination never exceeded 17% in all tested media. In vivo, pollen rehydrates and casts off the exine in the micropylar drop. Drop withdrawal brings pollen to the apical nucellar cells that degenerate in the meantime, and it leaves a deposit on the surface of the micropylar canal. After contaction of the nucellar cells, the pollen flattens and its mucilaginous layer shrinks and disappears. This occurs simultaneously with sealing of the micropylar canal. During this time, pollen divides asymmetrically without the callosic wall, and the larger cell develops a tube in the interface with the nucellus. Only some pollen grains accomplish adhesion to the nucellus and germinate. The in vitro and in vivo developmental stages are discussed.
Differential expression of microRNA species in human gastric cancer versus non‐tumorous tissues
Authors: Guo Junming , Miao Ying , Xiao Bingxiu , Huan Rong , Jiang Zhen , Meng Dan , Wang Yanjun
Published: November 2008

Background and Aim:  MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play important roles in carcinogenesis. The global miRNA expression profile of gastric cancer has not been reported. The purpose of the present study was to determine the miRNA expression profile of gastric cancer.

Methods:  Total RNA were first extracted from primary gastric cancer tissues and adjacent non‐tumorous tissues and then small isolated RNAs (< 300 nt) were 3′‐extended with a poly(A) tail. Hybridization was carried out on a μParaflo™ microfluidic chip (LC Sciences, Houston, TX, USA). After hybridization detection by fluorescence labeling using tag‐specific Cy3 and Cy5 dyes, hybridization images were collected using a laser scanner and digitized using Array‐Pro image analysis software (Media Cybernetics, Silver Spring, MD, USA). To validate the results and investigate the biological meaning of differential expressed miRNAs, immunohistochemistry was used to detect the differential expression of target genes.

Results:  The most highly expressed miRNAs in non‐tumorous tissues were miR‐768‐3p, miR‐139‐5p, miR‐378, miR‐31, miR‐195, miR‐497 and miR‐133b. Three of them, miR‐139‐5p, miR‐497 and miR‐768‐3p, were first found in non‐tumorous tissues. The most highly expressed miRNAs in gastric cancer tissues were miR‐20b, miR‐20a, miR‐17, miR‐106a, miR‐18a, miR‐21, miR‐106b, miR‐18b, miR‐421, miR‐340*, miR‐19a and miR‐658. Among them, miR‐340*, miR‐421 and miR‐658 were first found highly expressed in cancer cells. The expression of some target genes (such as Rb and PTEN) in cancer tissues was found to be decreased.

Conclusion:  To our knowledge, this is the first report about these miRNAs associated with gastric cancer. This new information may suggest the potential roles of these miRNAs in the diagnosis of gastric cancer.
Expression of intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)‐1 or ICAM‐2 is critical in determining sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells to cytolysis by human γδ‐T cells: Implications in the design of γδ‐T‐cell‐based immunotherapies for pancreatic cancer
Authors: Liu Zhiyong , Guo Ben , Lopez Richard D
Published: November 2008

Background and Aims:  γδ‐T cells can recognize and kill malignant cells, particularly those of epithelial origin, through mechanisms which do not require the recognition of tumor‐specific antigens (innate immune response). This natural ability of γδ‐T cells to kill tumor cells in a tumor antigen‐independent manner provides a strong rationale for developing clinical trials designed to exploit the innate antitumor properties of γδ‐T cells.

Methods:  In vitro studies were carried out to asses the sensitivity of pancreatic cancer cells (MIA PaCa2, BxPC‐3, PANC‐1) to killing by ex vivo expanded human γδ‐T cells.

Results:  The capacity of γδ‐T cells to bind to as well as to kill pancreatic cancer cells correlated with the degree of surface expression of key intercellular adhesion molecules (ICAM) present on pancreatic cancer cells. Moreover, pancreatic cancer cells expressing neither ICAM‐1 nor ICAM‐2 were bound poorly by γδ‐T cells and were found to be resistant to γδ‐T‐cell killing. However, upon transfection of resistant cells with ICAM‐1 or ICAM‐2, γδ‐T cells were then able to bind to and subsequently kill these cells.

Conclusion:  In vitro, the expression of ICAM‐1 or ICAM‐2 on human pancreatic cancer cells is critically important in determining the extent to which these cells are sensitive to killing by human γδ‐T cells. Accordingly, in ongoing and future clinical studies using γδ‐T cells for the treatment of a variety of epithelial‐derived solid tumors—including pancreatic cancer—interventions intended to modulate ICAM expression on tumor cells may become important adjuncts to γδ‐T‐cell‐based immunotherapies.
SRD5B1 gene analysis needed for the accurate diagnosis of primary 3‐oxo‐Δ4‐steroid 5β‐reductase deficiency
Authors: Ueki Isao , Kimura Akihiko , Chen Huey‐Ling , Yorifuji Tohru , Mori Jun , Itoh Susumu , Maruyama Kenichi , Ishige Takashi , Takei Hajime , Nittono Hiroshi , Kurosawa Takao , Kage Masayoshi , Matsuishi Toyojiro
Published: November 2008

Background and Aim:  We encounter hyper‐3‐oxo‐Δ4 bile aciduria in patients with severe cholestatic liver disease or fulminant liver failure during the neonatal period. However, simply by bile acid analysis, it is difficult to distinguish hyper‐3‐oxo‐Δ4 bile aciduria from primary 3‐oxo‐Δ4‐steroid 5β‐reductase deficiency.

Methods:  To determine whether 3‐oxo‐Δ4‐steroid 5β‐reductase (SRD5B1) gene analysis is required for the accurate diagnosis of 3‐oxo‐Δ4‐steroid 5β‐reductase deficiency, we evaluated the laboratory data, bile acid analysis and SRD5B1 gene analysis from six patients with hyper‐3‐oxo‐Δ4 bile aciduria.

Results:  Based upon the results, four patients who had developed neonatal liver failure were diagnosed as having neonatal hemochromatosis. Two patients with chronic cholestasis were diagnosed as having primary 3‐oxo‐Δ4‐steroid 5β‐reductase deficiency by SRD5B1 gene analysis. The SRD5B1 gene in these two patients had a heterozygous mutation, G737A (Gly 223 Glu) in one patient and C217T (Arg 50 stop) in the other.

Conclusions:  Based upon our limited data, we conclude that SDR5B1 gene analysis is required for the accurate diagnosis of 3‐oxo‐Δ4‐steroid 5β‐reductase deficiency. Moreover, we think that it is important to elucidate whether there is a heterozygous or a compound heterozygous mutation of the SRD5B1 gene in our two patients.
Unclassified mucin phenotype of gastric adenocarcinoma exhibits the highest invasiveness
Authors: Han Hye S , Lee Sun‐Young , Lee Kyung Y , Hong Sung N , Kim Jeong H , Sung In‐Kyung , Park Hyung S , Jin Choon J , Min Young I
Published: November 2008

Background and Aim:  Gastric cancers present with distinctive carcinogenesis pathways that vary with the mucin phenotypes. We attempted to elucidate the relations between the characteristics of the mucin phenotypes of gastric cancer and the tumor invasiveness.

Methods:  Gastric adenocarcinomas that were resected surgically between August 2005 and April 2007 were included in the present study. The gastric cancers were subclassified into gastric and intestinal mucin phenotypes if more than 10% of cancer cells exhibited gastric (MUC5AC and/or MUC6) and intestinal (MUC2 or CD10) markers, respectively.

Results:  The mucin phenotypes of 123 gastric cancers were gastric (n = 31), intestinal (n = 43), mixed (n = 28) and unclassified (n = 21). The mucin phenotype was related to histological type (P < 0.001), Lauren's classification (P = 0.001) and size (P = 0.014) of the gastric adenocarcinoma, but not to its location or to the presence of Helicobacter pylori infection. The unclassified mucin phenotype exhibited the largest number of lymph node metastases (P = 0.007), lymphatic invasions (P < 0.001) and neural invasions (P = 0.026), whereas the intestinal mucin phenotype exhibited the lowest invasiveness.

Conclusion:  The mucin phenotype reflects the biological behavior of gastric cancer, with the intestinal and unclassified mucin phenotypes exhibiting the lowest and highest invasiveness, respectively.
Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies
Authors: Limaye V. S. , Blumbergs P. , Roberts‐Thomson P. J.
Published: November 2008

The idiopathic inflammatory myopathies are a group of systemic autoimmune syndromes characterized by striated muscle inflammation. Here, we discuss the clinical features of this group of cond2itions and review the recent developments in the understanding of the pathogenesis and immunogenetics of the idiopathic inflammatory myopathies. The role of myositis‐specific autoantibodies and their clinical significance and an overview of management are also provided.
Osteonecrosis of the jaw complicating bisphosphonate treatment for bone disease in multiple myeloma: an overview with recommendations for prevention and treatment
Authors: Dickinson M. , Prince H. M. , Kirsa S. , Zannettino A. , Gibbs S. D. J. , Mileshkin L. , O'Grady J. , Seymour J. F. , Szer J. , Horvath N. , Joshua D. E.
Published: November 2008

Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ) is a recently recognised and potentially highly morbid complication of bisphosphonate therapy in the setting of metastatic malignancy, including myeloma. Members of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Group of the Myeloma Foundation of Australia formulated guidelines for the management of bisphosphonates around the issue of ONJ, based on the best available evidence in June 2008. Prior to commencement of therapy, patients should have an oral health assessment and be educated about the risks of ONJ. Dental assessment should occur 6 monthly during therapy. If tooth extraction is required, sufficient time should be allowed for complete healing to occur prior to commencement of bisphosphonate. As the risk of ONJ increases with duration of bisphosphonate therapy, we recommend annual assessment of dose with modification to 3 monthly i.v. therapy or to oral therapy with clodronate for those with all but the highest risk of skeletal‐related event. Established ONJ should be managed conservatively; a bisphosphonate “drug holiday” is usually indicated and invasive surgery should generally be avoided. These recommendations will assist with clinical decision making for myeloma patients who are at risk of bisphosphonate‐associated ONJ.
Single versus double unrelated umbilical cord blood units for allogeneic transplantation in adults with advanced haematological malignancies: a retrospective comparison of outcomes
Authors: Bradstock K. , Hertzberg M. , Kerridge I. , Svennilson J. , George B. , McGurgan M. , Huang G. , Antonenas V. , Gottlieb D.
Published: November 2008

Background: Unrelated umbilical cord blood has emerged as an alternative stem cell source for allogeneic transplantation for patients with haematological malignancies, but in adults is limited by the low number of stem cells present in banked cord blood units. We report our experience with double cord blood transplants for adult patients. The aim of the study was to compare the outcomes of double unrelated cord blood transplants in adults with poor prognosis haematological diseases with single cord blood transplants.

Methods: Eleven patients, median age 27 years and median weight 69 kg, received transplants of two partially matched unrelated cord blood units after myeloablative conditioning therapy.

Results: Neutrophil recovery to 0.5 × 109/L was seen by median day 32 (18–53), and platelet recovery to 50 × 109/L by day 91 (56–381). These results were not significantly different from those reported in patients receiving single cord blood transplants. Acute graft‐versus‐host disease of grades II–IV was seen in four patients, but no chronic graft‐versus‐host disease occurred. Transplant‐related complications were responsible for the deaths of five patients in the first 3 months post‐transplant, whereas two patients died of relapse of their haematological malignancy. Four patients survive, disease free, 17–33 months post‐transplant.

Conclusion: Transplantation using two partially matched unrelated cord blood units did not appear to result in improvements either in engraftment or survival, as compared with a previous cohort of patients receiving single cord blood units. Further strategies appear to be needed to reduce the duration of severe neutropenia and reduce the high transplant‐related mortality in these patients.
Validation of a portable recording device (ApneaLink) for identifying patients with suspected obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome
Authors: Ng S. S. S. , Chan T.‐O. , To K.‐W. , Ngai J. , Tung A. , Ko F. W. S. , Hui D. S. C.
Published: November 2008

Background: Polysomnography (PSG) is currently the standard diagnostic procedure for sleep apnoea. This study evaluates the diagnostic accuracy of a portable recording device, ApneaLink (AL; ResMed, Poway, CA, USA) for detection of sleep apnoea in comparisons against PSG.

Methods: The AL device is a three‐channel screening tool that measures airflow through a nasal pressure transducer, oximetry and pulse, providing an apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI) based on recording time. Nocturnal PSG (Alice 4; Healthdyne, Atlanta, GA, USA), with airflow measured by a nasal pressure transducer (ProTech PTAF2; ProTech, Woodinville, WA, USA) and AL recordings were carried out simultaneously in consecutive patients with suspected obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS). The PSG recordings were analysed manually by a blinded investigator. The oxygen desaturation index of AL was also compared against the AHI based on PSG.

Results: Fifty consecutive subjects with symptoms of OSAS were recruited with mean age of 50 years and body mass index of 27.9 kg/m2. The AHI obtained by the AL device correlated closely to that obtained by PSG (Pearson correlation, r= 0.978, P < 0.001), whereas the correlation between PSG AHI and oxygen desaturation index by AL was also strong (r= 0.895, P < 0.001). Comparison of AHI based on the AL against the PSG demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity at AHI ≥10/h (sensitivity 0.977 and specificity 1.0) and at AHI ≥20/h (sensitivity 0.969 and specificity 1.0).

Conclusion: The AL portable monitoring device is highly sensitive and specific in quantifying the apnoea–hypopnoea index when compared against hospital based polysomnography in patients with suspected OSAS. The simple device may be useful for screening and diagnostic purpose when access to PSG is limited.