bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Track Minimally Invasive Transmyocardial Revascularization
Authors: Wehberg Kurt E. , Jackson Debra , Walters Joseph , Redmond Brandon , Todd James C. , Ogburn Nicholas L. , Leonard Steven
Published: July 2009

Objective

We evaluated the initial results of a fast-track discharge protocol for patients undergoing minimally invasive transmyocardial revascularization (MiTMR).

Methods

Fifteen male patients, aged 64.5 ± 9.2 years, with an ejection fraction of 46.8% ± 9.9%, underwent MiTMR through a mini-left anterior thoracotomy aided by robotic-controlled thoracoscopic assistance. A postoperative management protocol included immediate extubation, early chest tube and pulmonary artery catheter removal, and mobilization within 12 hours.

Results

There were no operative arrhythmias or in-hospital mortalities. Three of 15 patients developed left lower lobe atelectasis, delaying discharge between 2 and 5 days. Overall hospital length of stay was 1.4 ± 1.2 days, although 12 of 15 patients (80%) were discharged to home in 23 hours. Mild-moderate cardiomyopathy (ejection fraction 30%–50%) was not associated with prolonged length of stay. Mean hospital profit margin was $1882.50. One 30-day readmission occurred on day 23 for rapid atrial fibrillation, and one death occurred on day 11.

Conclusions

Despite these high-risk patients having end-staged, ischemic coronary artery disease, most MiTMR patients can be discharged to home in less than 24 hours. Perioperative morbidity and mortality rates are relatively low, and hospital profit margins are modest.
Left Ventricular Pseudoaneurysm Demonstrated by 64-Multislice Computed Tomography
Authors: Jebelli Mohammad , Kernstine Kemp , Mandegar Mohammad Hossein , Chitsaz Sam , Rayatzadeh Hussein
Published: July 2009

A 50-year-old man with a history of left ventricular aneurysmectomy was evaluated with a 64-multislice computed tomogram, which demonstrated left ventricular enlargement and a pseudoaneurysm at the apicolateral side. The images were critical to our management. We resected the pseudoaneurysm with an excellent outcome.
Quantifiers for randomness of chaotic pseudo-random number generators
Authors: De Micco L. , Larrondo H. A. , Plastino A. , Rosso O. A.
Published: July 2009

We deal with randomness quantifiers and concentrate on their ability to discern the hallmark of chaos in time series used in connection with pseudo-random number generators (PRNGs). Workers in the field are motivated to use chaotic maps for generating PRNGs because of the simplicity of their implementation. Although there exist very efficient general-purpose benchmarks for testing PRNGs, we feel that the analysis provided here sheds additional didactic light on the importance of the main statistical characteristics of a chaotic map, namely (i) its invariant measure and (ii) the mixing constant. This is of help in answering two questions that arise in applications: (i)
which is the best PRNG among the available ones?
and (ii) if a given PRNG turns out not to be good enough and a randomization procedure must still be applied to it,
which is the best applicable randomization procedure?
Our answer provides a comparative analysis of several quantifiers advanced in the extant literature.
The development of imitation in infancy
Authors: Jones Susan S.
Published: July 2009

An overview of existing data on imitation in infancy suggests that changes in the direction of imitation research are underway. The widely accepted view that newborn infants imitate lacks supporting evidence. Instead, existing data suggest that infants do not imitate others until their second year, and that imitation of different kinds of behaviour emerges at different ages. The evidence is consistent with a dynamic systems account in which the ability to imitate is not an inherited, specialized module, but is instead the emergent product of a system of social, cognitive and motor components, each with its own developmental history.
Slowing of Event-Related Potentials in Primary Progressive Aphasia. A case report
Authors: Giaquinto Salvatore , Ranghi Francesca
Published: July 2009

Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) is a rare and insidious language impairment that worsens over time. It belongs to the group of fronto–temporal dementias. This study was aimed at assessing the role of speed of cognitive abilities, such as word recognition, in PPA. The design is a single-case, longitudinal study. A male patient suffering from PPA was enrolled and 15 healthy older adults were the control group. An event-related electrical potential connected with word recognition, namely the N400, was delayed by 200 msec at baseline compared to healthy controls and progressively deteriorated. One year later, the delay was greater and two years later the potential had disappeared. Reduced speed of processing is an early pathological factor that negatively affecting higher cognitive functions in APP. Event–related electrical potentials are recommended in the field of aphasia and cognitive decline. They permit observation of a speed decline in higher cognitive abilities, when pathological changes at a central level begin and language comprehension seems to be unaffected.
Estimating Brain Load from the EEG
Authors: Holm Anu , Lukander Kristian , Korpela Jussi , Sallinen Mikael , Müller Kiti M. I.
Published: July 2009

Modern work requires cognitively demanding multitasking and the need for sustained vigilance, which may result in work-related stress and may increase the possibility of human error. Objective methods for estimating cognitive overload and mental fatigue of the brain on-line, during work performance, are needed. We present a two-channel electroencephalography (EEG)–based index, theta Fz/alpha Pz ratio, potentially implementable into a compact wearable device. The index reacts to both acute external and cumulative internal load. The index increased with the number of tasks to be performed concurrently (p= 0.004) and with increased time awake, both after normal sleep (p= 0.002) and sleep restriction (p= 0.004). Moreover, the increase of the index was more pronounced in the afternoon after sleep restriction (p= 0.006). As a measure of brain state and its dynamics, the index can be considered equivalent to the heartbeat, an indicator of the cardiovascular state, thus inspiring the name "brainbeat".
Seasonal changes in suppressive capacity of CD4+ CD25+ T cells from patients with hayfever are allergen‐specific and may result in part from expansion of effector T cells among the CD25+ population
Authors: Anderson A. E. , Mackerness K. J. , Aizen M. , Carr V. A. , Nguyen D. , Pre F. Du , Durham S. R. , Robinson D. S.
Published: July 2009

Background
Suppression of allergen‐stimulated peripheral blood CD4+ CD25− effector T cells by CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T cells obtained from subjects with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis is reduced during the pollen season when compared with out of season.

Objective
We examined possible explanations for this effect of seasonal pollen exposure on suppression of allergen responses.

Methods
CD4+ CD25− and CD4+ CD25+ T cells were isolated from blood obtained from 44 volunteers with allergic rhinoconjunctivitis during and out of the UK grass pollen season. Co‐cultures were performed with grass pollen extract and house dust mite (HDM) to examine allergen specificity. The frequency of IL‐5 and IL‐10 producing cells was determined by ELISPOT and the expression of T cell activation markers and the CD25+ regulatory T cell‐associated transcription factor Foxp3 were examined. Lactic acid stripping of IgE was used to determine IgE dependence of T cell responses.

Results
The seasonal reduction in suppression by CD4+ CD25+ T cells was confirmed and was shown to be allergen specific because suppression of HDM‐stimulated cultures was not affected significantly. The CD4+ CD25+ population contained IL‐5 and IL‐10 producing cells but increases in their frequencies with seasonal pollen exposure were not significant. Both activation marker and Foxp3 expression increased during the pollen season. IgE stripping reduced CD4+ and CD4+ CD25− T cell responses to allergen, but had no effect on suppression by CD4+ CD25+ T cells.

Conclusion
The seasonal reduction in suppression of grass pollen‐stimulated effector T cells by CD4+ CD25+ T cells is allergen specific and cannot be explained by increased IgE‐facilitated allergen presentation. We suggest that changes in the proportion of effector to regulatory T cells among the CD25+ population isolated may partially explain these findings, and that trafficking to the site of allergic disease may reduce allergen‐specific regulatory T cell numbers in peripheral blood.
The definition and diagnosis of Asthma
Authors: Hargreave F. E. , Nair P.
Published: July 2009

The diagnosis of asthma depends on what we mean by the word. Its definition continues to be controversial because there is no single genetic or environmental cause. Addressed from a descriptive point of view, the disease components include airway inflammation, symptoms, variable airflow limitation and chronic airflow limitation. The essentialist definition conveys the message that asthma is a separate disease entity, fails to identify a primary defining characteristic which separates it from other diseases and is long winded. These disadvantages are overcome by the nominalist definition of asthma in which the word ‘asthma’refers to an abnormality of airway function, specifically to wide variations in airflow limitation over short periods of time. In patients with asthma the other components of airway disease need to be considered. These have separate nominalist definitions and especially include different types of bronchitis for airway inflammation and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease for chronic airflow limitation. What is present will vary between and within patients. The accurate diagnosis of asthma and of other components of disease all require objective measurements. Currently spirometry and airway responsiveness should be available to the general practitioner, who sees milder disease, and additional quantitative sputum cell counts in specialist practice, where moderate to severe disease is more prevalent. Such measurements characterize the patient, identify heterogeneity and allow treatment to be personalized.
Haemopoietic processes in allergic disease: eosinophil/basophil development
Authors: Gauvreau G. M. , Ellis A. K. , Denburg J. A.
Published: July 2009

Haemopoietic myeloid progenitors contribute to the ongoing recruitment of pro‐inflammatory cells, such as eosinophils and basophils (Eo/B), to target tissue sites in allergic diseases. It is apparent that the development of allergic inflammation is critically dependent on the ability of the bone marrow to support the proliferation, differentiation and mobilization of haemopoietic progenitors. The haemopoietic inductive microenvironment in the bone marrow is crucial for providing signals necessary for maintenance of progenitor populations at varying stages of lineage commitment and permitting these cells to circulate in the bloodstream. Progenitors demonstrate responsiveness to specific cytokines, which varies with stage of differentiation. Pro‐inflammatory signals, Th2 cytokines in particular, generated following allergen challenge, can impact on haemopoietic progenitor differentiation and mobilization, leading to accelerated Eo/B production. Allergen inhalation by allergic asthmatics induces a time‐dependent change in cytokine levels within the bone marrow compartment, influencing differentiation of Eo/B progenitors, as evidenced by the relationship between increased bone marrow IL‐5 levels and Eo/B production. It is proposed that inhaled allergen induces trafficking of IL‐5‐producing T lymphocytes to the bone marrow, further promoting eosinophilopoiesis through IL‐5R signalling. In this manner, Th2 lymphocyte trafficking from the airway may regulate events occurring in the bone marrow. Negative regulators of Eo/B differentiation, including Th1 cytokines, may prove to be important for restoring homeostasis. Eo/B progenitors are also altered in cord blood of infants at risk of atopy and asthma, offering a potential biomarker for, and raising the possibility that Eo/B progenitors are directly involved in the development of allergic disease. For example, changes in the expression of haemopoietic cytokine receptors on cord blood progenitor cells are associated with maternal allergic sensitization, atopic risk and its development, suggesting that haemopoietic processes underlying the allergic phenotype may begin to evolve in the perinatal period.
Protein expression in salivary glands of rats with streptozotocin diabetes
Authors: Mednieks Maija I. , Szczepanski Andrew , Clark Brett , Hand Arthur R.
Published: July 2009

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a widespread disease with high morbidity and health care costs. An experimental animal model was employed, using morphological and biochemical methods, to investigate the effects of DM on the expression and compartmentation of salivary gland proteins. The distribution of proline‐rich proteins (PRP), submandibular mucin (Muc10) and the regulatory (RI and RII) subunits of cyclic AMP‐dependent protein kinase type I and type II was determined in the parotid and submandibular (SMG) glands of rats treated with streptozotocin. Quantitative immunocytochemistry of secretory granules in diabetic glands revealed decreases of 30% for PRP in both the parotid and SMG, and a 40% decrease in Muc10 in the SMG. Immunogold labelling showed that RII decreased in nuclei and the cytoplasm in diabetic acinar cells while labelling of secretory granules was similar in control and diabetic parotid. Electrophoresis and Western blotting of tissue extracts of two secretory proteins showed that the response to DM and insulin treatment was gland specific: PRP showed little change in the SMG, but decreased in the parotid in DM and was partially restored after insulin treatment. Photoaffinity labelling showed only RI present in the SMG and mainly RII in the parotid. The results of this and previous studies demonstrating highly specific changes in salivary protein expression indicate that the oral environment is significantly altered by DM, and that oral tissues and their function can be compromised. These findings may provide a basis for future studies to develop tests using saliva for diabetic status or progression in humans.
Blue fish burgers: nutritional characterisation and sensory optimisation
Authors: Di Monaco Rossella , Cavella Silvana , Masi Paolo , Sevi Agostino , Caroprese Mariangela , Marzano Alessandra , Conte Amalia , Del Nobile Matteo Alessandro
Published: July 2009

In order to reduce waste of marine resources, valorise fishing discards and move towards fish consumption, a new ready‐to‐cook seafood product was developed. In particular, a chemical investigation on chub mackerel and hake was conducted to the aim of mixing the two fish species to produce nutritionally balanced fish burgers. In addition, to evaluate consumer opinion about these new fresh products and best acceptability of different proportions of mackerel and hake, focus group interviews and consumer test were also performed. The results of the chemical analyses achieved on both selected fish species gave rise to minimally processed fish products with a high amount of chub mackerel, therefore providing the desired nutritional properties and low level of hake in order to obtain firmer and wetter burgers. By means of focus group interviews, the novelty and high level of convenience of the developed fresh commodity was highlighted. Consumer test declared that the most successful sample was that with 70% chub mackerel and 30% hake.
Use of kiam wood extract as gel enhancer for mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta) surimi
Authors: Balange Amjad Khansaheb , Benjakul Soottawat
Published: July 2009

Kiam (Cotylelobium lanceotatum craih) wood was extracted using water or ethanol. Water kiam wood extract (WKWE) and ethanolic kiam wood extract (EKWE) contained tannin at levels of 251.90 and 456.30 mg g−1 of dry extract, respectively. Effects of WKWE and EKWE at different levels (0–0.60% of protein content) on the properties of gels from mackerel (Rastrelliger kanagurta) surimi were investigated in comparison with commercial tannin (CT). Gels added with 0.30% WKWE, 0.15% EKWE or 0.30% CT had the increases in breaking force by 134.81%, 136.09% and 121.34% and in deformation by 52.60%, 54.96% and 33.53%, respectively, compared with the control (without addition of extracts or CT). The lowered expressible moisture content and the formation of cross‐linked myosin heavy chain were also observed in surimi gels incorporated with those additives. Thus, the extract of kiam wood can be used as surimi gel enhancer without affecting its sensory properties.
Teaching competencies for technology integration in the classroom
Authors: Guzman A. , Nussbaum M.
Published: July 2009

Abstract  There is growing interest in the integration of technology into the classroom. A range of initiatives have been launched to develop in‐service teacher training processes that will strengthen this integration. In the present paper, we systematize the findings of a large selection of studies on this topic, focusing on domains and competencies linked to teacher training propositions for technology integration. Our main result is the presentation of six such domains that have been proposed in the existing literature: instrumental/technological, pedagogical/curricular, didactic/methodological, evaluative/investigative, communicational/relational and personal/attitudinal. A set of teaching competencies for each domain is also identified. These domains and competencies together form the bases for creating a technology integration training model.
Tunga penetrans in a young dog imported to Denmark from Brazil; A case report
Authors: Loft K. Earl , Nissen M. Holst
Published: July 2009

The number of people who travel internationally with their pets is increasing. Consequently, veterinarians around the world are more likely to encounter parasitic diseases formerly restricted to certain geographical locations. The purpose of this report is to describe a case of tungiasis, a disease caused by the sand flea Tunga penetrans, in a dog imported from Brazil to Denmark. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of canine T. penetrans infestation in Scandinavia.
Herpes zoster with progression to acute varicella zoster virus‐meningoencephalitis
Authors: Braun‐Falco Markus , Hoffmann Marco
Published: July 2009

Background  Acute meningoencephalitis (ME) from varicella zoster virus (VZV) reactivation is a rare and serious complication of herpes zoster (HZ).

Objectives and methods  As early diagnostic detection is mandatory to prevent long‐term sequelae, any clinical indication is helpful to identify patients that are at higher risk of the development of VZV‐ME. In order to find such risk factors, the clinical data of 38 patients consecutively hospitalized for the treatment of HZ over a 1‐year period were analyzed.

Results  Four of the 38 patients with HZ developed ME. Of these, three had involvement of the trigeminal nerve branch, one including an ophthalmic affection, and one presented with disseminated HZ. All were women with an average age of 83.5 years, in comparison with patients with HZ but without ME who had an average age of 69.3 years and a female preponderance of 60%. The first clinical signs of ME were rapidly progressing somnolence and meningism. Patients with HZ‐ME were treated with intravenous acyclovir, oral glucocorticosteroids, and antiseizure therapy, and recovered almost completely without major residual symptoms.

Conclusion  Progression of HZ to ME seems to occur more often than normally believed. Female patients above 80 years of age with either ophthalmic involvement or disseminated HZ are at a potentially high risk of the development of ME. The general recommendation of starting oral glucocorticosteroids from day 1 of antiviral treatment in older patients must be questioned, as it may stimulate VZV replication and dissemination.
Island composite nasal flap for nasal dorsum skin defects
Authors: Skitarelić Neven , Mladina Ranko , Mraovic Boris , Śimurina Tatjana , Skitarelić Nataa , Vuković Katarina
Published: July 2009

Background  Skin defects on the nasal dorsum remain a challenge for the plastic surgeon. There are few local nasal flap options for the repair of proximally positioned nasal skin defects.

Methods  During a 3‐year period, 22 patients were treated after excision of skin cancer in the proximal two‐thirds of the nose. Nine patients (41%) were female and 13 (59%) were male, with an average age of 69 years. All patients were operated on under local anesthesia. The average follow‐up was 25 months.

Results  In all patients, after tumor ablation, the skin defect was closed with an island composite nasal skin flap. Pathohistologic analysis confirmed that the margins of the removed tumor were free of malignant cells. Six patients (27.3%) had squamous cell and 16 (72.7%) had basal cell carcinoma. There was no total or partial flap loss. None of the patients has suffered from recurrence of the tumor.

Conclusions  The island composite nasal flap is a reliable technique for the closure of proximal nasal skin defects. Complications in the elevation of the island composite flap were rare, and the final result was acceptable.
Acridid (Orthoptera: Acrididae) abundance in Western European Grasslands: sampling methodology and temporal fluctuations
Authors: Badenhausser I. , Amouroux P. , Lerin J. , Bretagnolle V.
Published: July 2009

The estimation of Acridid (Orthoptera: Acrididae) density is the goal of a wide variety of conservation studies to monitor the impacts of grassland management or habitat change. The first aim of this paper was to study the influence of surveyors, time of the day and size/form of the box quadrat method on density values of Acridids in grassland habitats in Western France. The main taxa wereCalliptamus italicus(L.) and Gomphocerinae sub‐family. Surveyor and day‐time (early morning vs. mid‐day) were not significantly influencing the density values of Acridids produced using a 1 m2box quadrat. A smaller box quadrat of 0.5 m2, square or rectangular, produced underestimates of Acridid density, such as square 1 m2box quadrat should be preferred. Population densities change through time. Thus, data‐based inferences about density are tied to the time periods during which data are collected. This was the main focus of this paper to provide a description of Acridid density fluctuations from egg hatching to adult’s death in grasslands with differing vegetation structures and grasshopper densities. Acridid densities were monitored weekly in 23 grassland plots over three seasons from 2004 to 2006. Weibull formulation was used to model density fluctuations for the two main taxa in each field with the Julian date as time. Phenological parameters of density were quite similar for the two taxa in the three years. This could be explained by similar meteorological conditions in the three years. However, these parameters exhibited a great variability between fields in the same year. Divergences between the fields could be attributable to different field ecological characters and to different grasshopper associations in the case of Gomphocerinae sub‐family. This study provided data which may be useful in determining the optimum survey dates.
Functional response ofNeoseiulus californicus(Acari: Phytoseiidae) toTetranychus urticae(Acari: Tetranychidae) on strawberry leaves
Authors: Ahn J. J. , Kim K. W. , Lee J.‐H.
Published: July 2009

Neoseiulus californicus(McGregor) is a predatory mite employed for biological control of the agricultural pestTetranychus urticae(Koch). We explored whether environmental differences, in this case the trichome densities of abaxial leaf surfaces of strawberry cultivars (‘Maehyang’ and ‘Sulhyang’ varieties) affect the functional response of adult femaleN. californicuspreying on immature stages (egg, larva and nymph) ofT. urticae. We also evaluated the functional response ofN. californicusto eggs ofT. urticaeat different temperatures (15, 20, 25, 30 and 35°C). We conducted a logistic regression of the proportion of prey consumed as a function of initial prey density to identify functional response types, and used nonlinear least‐squares regression and the random predator equation to estimate attack rates and handling times. The functional response of adult femaleN. californicustoT. urticaewas not influenced by non‐glandular trichomes on abaxial leaves but was affected by temperature. Overall, adult femaleN. californicusexhibited a type 2 functional response toT. urticae.The handling time ofN. californicuswas highest (1.9970 h) againstT. urticaenymphs. The attack rate did not change much at 15–30°C, but was significantly higher at 35°C. The handling time decreased significantly with increasing temperature at 15–35°C. At 35°C, the attack rate was highest (0.2087) and the handling time was lowest (0.9511 h).
Europe’s Migration Agreements with Migrant‐Sending Countries in the Global South: A Critical Review
Authors: Adepoju Aderanti , Van Noorloos Femke , Zoomers Annelies
Published: July 2009

The past two decades have seen the steady emergence of various bilateral and multilateral migration agreements between Europe and migrant‐sending countries in the global South.

This article provides a critical assessment of the way the EU – and individual countries such as Spain, France and Italy – have played active roles in reshaping old and developing new strategies for keeping migration under control while opening up new opportunities for “regular” migration. It also discusses the extent to which migration agreements help migrant‐sending countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America to optimize the link between migration and development. Based on an analysis of the contents of the migration agreements and their implementation, it has become obvious that there is still a long way to go to achieve “fair multilateralism” and create “win‐win” situations between the EU and the poorer migrant‐sending countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Moving Out and Staying in the Ethnic Economy
Authors: Fong Eric , Chan Elic , Cao Xingshan
Published: July 2009

Our study drew on a data set of 513 Chinese immigrants that was collected in Toronto in 1998 and 1999. We looked at how prior experiences in the ethnic economy affect current job transitions. Our analysis went beyond previous studies by situating job transition in the context of the economic integration of immigrants, with consideration of possible competing job transition outcomes and previous recurrent job transitions. Descriptive information in the study showed evidence of both forms of job transition outcomes, that is, either shifting away from or staying in the ethnic economy. Based on the competing risks model of event history analysis, which simultaneously considers different job transition outcomes, the results confirm that prior experience in the ethnic economy increases the likelihood of job transition away from and also remaining in the ethnic economy. However, the results also clearly suggest that those who have a higher level of English language ability are more likely to shift away from the ethnic economy. Results from the repeated events model show that the recurrent job transition experience does change the effects related to job transitions within the ethnic economy, where a customary working environment is expected.
Worker Remittances and Capital Flows to Developing Countries
Authors: Buch Claudia M. , Kuckulenz Anja
Published: July 2009

Worker remittances constitute an increasingly important channel for the transfer of resources to developing countries. Behind foreign direct investment, remittances are the second‐largest source of external funding for developing countries. Yet, literature on worker remittances has traditionally focused on the impact of remittances on income distribution within countries, on the determinants of remittances at a micro‐level, or on the effects of migration and remittances for specific countries or regions. Macroeconomic determinants and effects of remittances have received more attention only recently. Hence, the focus of this paper is on the macroeconomic determinants of remittances and on differences in these determinants between remittances and other capital flows. We find that remittances respond more to demographic variables while private capital flows respond more to macroeconomic conditions.
Semi‐quantitative tracking of intra‐airway fluids by computed tomography
Authors: Graf Jerónimo , Mentzelopoulos Spyros D. , Adams Alexander B. , Zhang Jie , Tashjian Joseph H. , Marini John J.
Published: July 2009

Background:  Airway secretions are a source of complications for patients with acute and chronic lung diseases, yet lack of techniques to quantitatively track secretions hampers research into clinical measures to reduce their pathologic consequences.

Methods:  In a preserved swine lung model, we tracked a contrasted mucus simulant (CMS) using sequential computed tomography (CT). Known drivers of secretion movement – gravity and ventilation – were tested. Ten millilitres of CMS were unilaterally introduced (1 ml min−1) into the airways of 12 lung sets. After instillation, six lung sets were maintained prone and six were rotated 180°. Subsequently, all were mechanically ventilated for 10 min. CTs were obtained before infusion, after infusion and after ventilation ± rotation. For CT analysis, the lungs were partitioned into eight sub‐cuboids using anatomic landmarks. The volumes of two CT number ranges representing CMS and poor aeration/collapse were computed in every sub‐cuboid for each CT acquisition. Volume differences between study time points were used to quantify changes.

Results:  CMS and poor aeration/collapse volume change distributed gravitationally after infusion. After ventilation without rotation, the CMS and poor aeration/collapse volumes remained within the originally injected sub‐cuboid, although the poor aeration/collapse volume expanded (27·3 ± 6·1→50·5 ± 7·4 ml, P<0·05). After ventilation + rotation, there was a reduction in the CMS and poor/aeration collapse volumes in the originally injected sub‐cuboid (14·4 ± 1·7→4·4 ± 0·6 ml, P<0·05 and 18·3 ± 3·8→11·9 ± 2·7 ml, P<0·05, respectively) accompanied by increases in the gravitationally opposite sub‐cuboid (1·7 ± 0·2→11·1 ± 1·1 ml, P<0·05 and 0·8 ± 0·5→40·6 ± 3·5 ml, P<0·05, respectively).

Conclusion:  Movement of fluids within the bronchial tree can be semi‐quantitatively tracked with analysis of sequential CT acquisitions. In this isolated swine lung model, gravity had an important and brisk effect on movement of a viscous fluid, whereas ventilation tended to embed it peripherally.
Cardiac sympathetic activity is associated with inflammation and neurohumoral activation in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy
Authors: Turpeinen Anu K. , Vanninen Esko , Magga Jarkko , Tuomainen Petri , Kuusisto Johanna , Sipola Petri , Punnonen Kari , Vuolteenaho Olli , Peuhkurinen Keijo
Published: July 2009

Background:  Idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (IDC) is characterized by sympathetic nervous overactivity, inflammation and neurohumoral activation; however, their interrelationships are poorly understood.

Methods and results:  We studied 99 patients with IDC (age 54 ± 1 years, left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) 40 ± 1%, maximum oxygen uptake (VO2max) 20 ± 1 ml kg−1 min−2, mean ± SEM) by using 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) imaging. MIBG washout and MIBG heart/mediastinum (H/M)‐ratio at 4 h postinjection were calculated. In addition, the plasma levels of interleukin (IL)‐6 and N‐terminal B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) were measured. MIBG washout and MIBG H/M ratio had a significant correlation with IL‐6 (r = 0·42, P<0·001 and r = −0·31, P<0·01) and NT‐proBNP (r = 0·48, P<0·001 and r = −0·40, P<0·001). During a median follow‐up of 4·1 years, 20 patients (20%) had an adverse cardiac event (death, heart transplantation or application of biventricular pacemaker or implantable cardioverter–defibrillator). In these patients, MIBG washout was higher (53 ± 4 versus 40 ± 2%, P = 0·01) and H/M ratio lower (1·38 ± 0·04 versus 1·51 ± 0·02, P = 0·01) than in patients without an event.

Conclusions:  In dilated cardiomyopathy, myocardial sympathetic innervation and activity are related to inflammation and neurohumoral activation. These relationships are at least partly independent of left ventricular function and exercise capacity.
Spinal Epidural Abscess as a Result of Dissemination from Gluteal Abscess Secondary to Intramuscular Analgesic Injection
Authors: Sasani Mehdi , Aydin Ozlem , Aydin Ahmet Levent , Oktenoglu Tunc , Ozer Ali Fahir , Ercelen Omur
Published: July 2009

Spinal epidural abscess is a collection of suppurative material that forms between the dura mater and the ligamentum flavum. If not recognized early and treated correctly, it can lead to life‐threatening sepsis. Here we report the case of a female patient, 51 years of age, with difficulty walking and bilateral leg pain after having had degenerative discogenic pain for many years. The patient had occasionally received intramuscular non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug injections. The current report is that of an unusual case of epidural abscess that formed following multiple dose of intramuscular non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug over a 1‐year period. Hematogenous or direct dissemination is the suspected cause. To prevent serious morbidity and mortality, early diagnosis is essential. Patients with localized back pain who are at risk for developing such epidural spinal abscesses should receive a magnetic resonance imaging scan with contrast enhancement without delay. The existence of predisposing factors such as intramuscular injections should be considered in the assessment of suspected spinal epidural abscess.
Translating tissue engineering technology platforms into cancer research
Authors: Hutmacher Dietmar W. , Horch Raymund E. , Loessner Daniela , Rizzi Simone , Sieh Shirly , Reichert Johannes C. , Clements Judith A. , Beier Justus P. , Arkudas Andreas , Bleiziffer Oliver , Kneser Ulrich
Published: July 2009

Introduction

History of tissue engineering

Physiological and structural aspects of 2D versus 3D culture in cancer research

State of the art of 3D culture systems in cancer research

New tissue engineering‐routed scaffolds for 3D culture

Endothelial progenitor cells and tumour vasculature

In vivo models

Arteriovenous loop isolation chamber for tumour angiogenesis research

Conclusion

Technology platforms originally developed for tissue engineering applications produce valuable models that mimic three‐dimensional (3D) tissue organization and function to enhance the understanding of cell/tissue function under normal and pathological situations. These models show that when replicating physiological and pathological conditions as closely as possible investigators are allowed to probe the basic mechanisms of morphogenesis, differentiation and cancer. Significant efforts investigating angiogenetic processes and factors in tumorigenesis are currently undertaken to establish ways of targeting angiogenesis in tumours. Anti‐angiogenic agents have been accepted for clinical application as attractive targeted therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. Combining the areas of tumour angiogenesis, combination therapies and drug delivery systems is therefore closely related to the understanding of the basic principles that are applied in tissue engineering models. Studies with 3D model systems have repeatedly identified complex interacting roles of matrix stiffness and composition, integrins, growth factor receptors and signalling in development and cancer. These insights suggest that plasticity, regulation and suppression of these processes can provide strategies and therapeutic targets for future cancer therapies. The historical perspective of the fields of tissue engineering and controlled release of therapeutics, including inhibitors of angiogenesis in tumours is becoming clearly evident as a major future advance in merging these fields. New delivery systems are expected to greatly enhance the ability to deliver drugs locally and in therapeutic concentrations to relevant sites in living organisms. Investigating the phenomena of angiogenesis and anti‐angiogenesis in 3D in vivo models such as the Arterio‐Venous (AV) loop mode in a separated and isolated chamber within a living organism adds another significant horizon to this perspective and opens new modalities for translational research in this field.
GMP‐based CD133+ cells isolation maintains progenitor angiogenic properties and enhances standardization in cardiovascular cell therapy
Authors: Gaipa Giuseppe , Tilenni Manuela , Straino Stefania , Burba Ilaria , Zaccagnini Germana , Belotti Daniela , Biagi Ettore , Valentini Marco , Perseghin Paolo , Parma Matteo , Campli Cristiana Di , Biondi Andrea , Capogrossi Maurizio C. , Pompilio Giulio , Pesce Maurizio
Published: July 2009

The aim of the present study was to develop and validate a good manufacturing practice (GMP) compliant procedure for the preparation of bone marrow (BM) derived CD133+ cells for cardiovascular repair. Starting from available laboratory protocols to purify CD133+ cells from human cord blood, we implemented these procedures in a GMP facility and applied quality control conditions defining purity, microbiological safety and vitality of CD133+ cells. Validation of CD133+ cells isolation and release process were performed according to a two‐step experimental program comprising release quality checking (step 1) as well as ‘proofs of principle’ of their phenotypic integrity and biological function (step 2). This testing program was accomplished using in vitro culture assays and in vivo testing in an immunosuppressed mouse model of hindlimb ischemia. These criteria and procedures were successfully applied to GMP production of CD133+ cells from the BM for an ongoing clinical trial of autologous stem cells administration into patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. Our results show that GMP implementation of currently available protocols for CD133+ cells selection is feasible and reproducible, and enables the production of cells having a full biological potential according to the most recent quality requirements by European Regulatory Agencies.
Fibroblast growth factor 2‐antagonist activity of a long‐pentraxin 3‐derived anti‐angiogenic pentapeptide
Authors: Leali Daria , Bianchi Roberta , Bugatti Antonella , Nicoli Stefania , Mitola Stefania , Ragona Laura , Tomaselli Simona , Gallo Grazia , Catello Sergio , Rivieccio Vincenzo , Zetta Lucia , Presta Marco
Published: July 2009

Fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF2) plays a major role in angiogenesis. The pattern recognition receptor long‐pentraxin 3 (PTX3) inhibits the angiogenic activity of FGF2. To identify novel FGF2‐antagonistic peptide(s), four acetylated (Ac) synthetic peptides overlapping the FGF2‐binding region PTX3‐(97–110) were assessed for their FGF2‐binding capacity. Among them, the shortest pentapeptide Ac‐ARPCA‐NH2 (PTX3‐[100–104]) inhibits the interaction of FGF2 with PTX3 immobilized to a BIAcore sensorchip and suppresses FGF2‐dependent proliferation in endothelial cells, without affecting the activity of unrelated mitogens. Also, Ac‐ARPCA‐NH2 inhibits angiogenesis triggered by FGF2 or by tumorigenic FGF2‐overexpressing murine endothelial cells in chick and zebrafish embryos, respectively. Accordingly, the peptide hampers the binding of FGF2 to Chinese Hamster ovary cells overexpressing the tyrosine‐kinase FGF receptor‐1 (FGFR1) and to recombinant FGFR1 immobilized to a BIAcore sensorchip without affecting heparin interaction. In all the assays the mutated Ac‐ARPSA‐NH2 peptide was ineffective. In keeping with the observation that hydrophobic interactions dominate the interface between FGF2 and the FGF‐binding domain of the Ig‐like loop D2 of FGFR1, amino acid substitutions in Ac‐ARPCA‐NH2 and saturation transfer difference‐nuclear magnetic resonance analysis of its mode of interaction with FGF2 implicate the hydrophobic methyl groups of the pentapeptide in FGF2 binding. These results will provide the basis for the design of novel PTX3‐derived anti‐angiogenic FGF2 antagonists.
CCK2 receptor splice variant with intron 4 retention in human gastrointestinal and lung tumours
Authors: Körner Meike , Waser Beatrice , Reubi Jean Claude , Miller Laurence J.
Published: July 2009

The wild‐type cholecystokinin type 2 (CCK2) receptor is expressed in many gastrointestinal and lung tumours. A splice variant of the CCK2 receptor with retention of intron 4 (CCK2Ri4sv) showing constitutive activity associated with increased tumour growth was described in few colorectal, pancreatic and gastric cancers. Given the potential functional and clinical importance of this spliceoform, its occurrence was quantitatively characterized in a broad collection of 81 gastrointestinal and lung tumours, including insulinomas, ileal carcinoids, gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST), gastric, colorectal and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas, cholangiocellular and hepatocellular carcinomas, small cell lung cancers (SCLC), non‐SCLC (nSCLC) and bronchopulmonary carcinoids, as well as 21 samples of corresponding normal tissues. These samples were assessed for transcript expression of total CCK2 receptor, wild‐type CCK2 receptor and CCK2Ri4sv with end‐point and real‐time RT‐PCR, and for total CCK2 receptor protein expression on the basis of receptor binding with in vitro receptor autoradiography. Wild‐type CCK2 receptor transcripts were found in the vast majority of tumours and normal tissues. CCK2Ri4sv mRNA expression was present predominantly in insulinomas (incidence 100%), GIST (100%) and SCLC (67%), but rarely in pancreatic, colorectal and gastric carcinomas and nSCLC. It was not found in wild‐type CCK2 receptor negative tumours or any normal tissues tested. CCK2Ri4sv transcript levels in individual tumours were low, ranging from 0.02% to 0.14% of total CCK2 receptor transcripts. In conclusion, the CCK2Ri4sv is a marker of specific gastrointestinal and lung tumours. With its high selectivity for and high incidence in SCLC and GIST, it may represent an attractive clinical target.
Association between type 1 and type 2 diabetes with periodontal disease and tooth loss
Authors: Kaur Gaganpreet , Holtfreter Birte , Rathmann Wolfgan G. , Schwahn Christian , Wallaschofski Henry , Schipf Sabine , Nauck Matthias , Kocher Thomas
Published: July 2009

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine whether both type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are associated with increased prevalence and extent of periodontal disease and tooth loss compared with non‐diabetic subjects within a homogeneous adult study population.

Material and Methods: T1DM, T2DM and non‐diabetic subjects were recruited from the population‐based Study of Health in Pomerania. Additionally, T1DM subjects were retrieved from a Diabetes Centre. The total study population comprised 145 T1DM and 2647 non‐diabetic subjects aged 20–59 years, and 182 T2DM and 1314 non‐diabetic subjects aged 50–81 years. Periodontal disease was assessed by attachment loss (AL) and the number of missing teeth.

Results: Multivariable regression revealed an association between T1DM (p<0.001) and T2DM (p<0.01) with mean AL after full adjustment. After age stratification (p=0.04 for interaction), the effect of T2DM was only statistically significant in the 60–69‐year‐old subjects (B=0.90 (95% confidence intervals [95% CI]; 0.49, 1.31). T1DM was positively associated with tooth loss (adjusted, p<0.001). The association between T2DM and tooth loss was statistically significant only for females (odds ratios=1.60 [95% CI: 1.10, 2.33]).

Conclusions: Our study confirmed an association between both T1DM and T2DM with periodontitis and tooth loss. Therefore, oral health education should be promoted in diabetic subjects.
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: review of the literature in reflection of unresolved dilemmas
Authors: Grisaru‐Granovsky S , Rabinowitz R , Ioscovich A , Elstein D , Schimmel MS
Published: July 2009

Background:  Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare but clinically and scientifically challenging condition. The introduction of ultrasound has enabled early prenatal detection and consequently, hope of early therapeutic intervention.

Aim:  We undertook the task to review the recent developments in understanding the pathology of CDH as well as the history and current management strategies to aid perinatologists in consultations with parents of CDH‐affected foetuses.

Study design:  A Medline search was undertaken of all reports and reviews published between 1980 and 2008 using MeSH search terms ‘diaphragmatic hernia’, ‘congenital’ and ‘newborn’.

Results:  The true incidence of CDH is still difficult to estimate because of the high incidence of hidden mortality of CDH. Complete case ascertainment also poses difficulties in assessment of the impact of new therapeutic modalities on overall survival. Recent improvements in prenatal detection are a milestone in affording time for re‐assessments and parental counselling. The true benefit of antenatal therapy is circumscribed and should be offered only in selected cases of isolated severe CDH as defined by existing guidelines. Postnatal intensive respiratory supportive therapy and innovative surgical techniques within specialized tertiary centres has had a major impact on survival of babies with CDH.

Conclusion:  The high survival of ‘selected cases’ that are live births and benefit from optimal care will be difficult to improve by antenatal interventions. The multidisciplinary approach to basic research and randomized clinical trials will further define the best approach to the foetus and neonate with CDH.
Calcitonin in a protochordate, Ciona intestinalis – the prototype of the vertebrate calcitonin/calcitonin gene‐related peptide superfamily
Authors: Sekiguchi Toshio , Suzuki Nobuo , Fujiwara Nobuyuki , Aoyama Masato , Kawada Tsuyoshi , Sugase Kenji , Murata Yoshiko , Sasayama Yuichi , Ogasawara Michio , Satake Honoo
Published: July 2009

The calcitonin (CT)/CT gene‐related peptides (CGRPs) constitute a large peptide family in vertebrates. However, no CT/CGRP superfamily members have so far been identified in invertebrates, and the evolutionary process leading to the diverse vertebrate CT/CGRP superfamily members remains unclear. In this study, we have identified an authentic invertebrate CT, Ci‐CT, in the ascidian Ciona intestinalis, which is the phylogenetically closest invertebrate chordate to vertebrates. The amino acid sequence of Ci‐CT was shown to display high similarity to those of vertebrate CTs and to share CT consensus motifs, including the N‐terminal circular region and C‐terminal amidated proline. Furthermore, the Ci‐CT gene was found to be the only Ciona CT/CGRP superfamily gene. Ci‐CT also exhibited less potent, but significant, activation of the human CT receptor, as compared with salmon CT. Physiological analysis revealed that Ci‐CT reduced the osteoclastic activity that is specific to vertebrate CTs. CD analysis demonstrated that Ci‐CT weakly forms an α‐helix structure. These results provide evidence that the CT/CGRP superfamily is essentially conserved in ascidians as well as in vertebrates, and indicate that Ci‐CT is a prototype of vertebrate CT/CGRP superfamily members. Moreover, expression analysis demonstrated that Ci‐CT is expressed in more organs than vertebrate CTs in the cognate organs, suggesting that an original CT/CGRP superfamily member gene was also expressed in multiple organs, and each CT/CGRP superfamily member acquired its current specific tissue distribution and physiological role concomitantly with diversification of the CT/CGRP superfamily during the evolution of chordates. This is the first report on a CT/CGRP superfamily member in invertebrates.