bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The inhibitory effects of deleted in liver cancer 1 gene on gallbladder cancer growth through induction of cell cycle arrest and apoptosis
Authors: Qin Yiyu , Chu Bingfeng , Gong Wei , Wang Jiandong , Tang Zhaohui , Shen Jun , Quan Zhiwei 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackground and AimThe biological function of tumor suppressor deleted in liver cancer 1 (DLC1) has been investigated in several types of human cancer, but its role in gallbladder cancer (GBC) is yet to be determined. In this research, we conducted in vitro and in vivo analysis to evaluate the inhibitory activities of DLC1 gene against GBC growth.MethodsDLC1 expression in GBC tissues and cell lines was examined by immunohistochemical staining, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and Western blot assay. The in vitro and in vivo effects of ectopic DLC1 expression on cell growth were evaluated. In addition, the effects of ectopic DLC1 expression on cell cycle, apoptosis, and migration were also evaluated. The expressions of cell cycle‐related and apoptosis‐related proteins were examined.ResultsThe downregulation of DLC1 expression was a common event in GBC tissues and cell lines. Restoration of DLC1 expression in GBC‐SD and NOZ cells significantly reduced cell proliferation, migration in vitro, and the ability of these cells to form tumors in vivo. Restoration of DLC1 expression arrested GBC‐SD and NOZ cells in G0/G1 phase through inducing p21 in a p53‐independent manner. In addition, restoration of DLC1 expression induced extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathway through promoting the expressions of Fas L/FADD, Bax, cytochrome c, cleaved caspase‐8, ‐9, ‐3, and cleaved poly‐(ADP‐ribose) polymerase and suppressing bcl‐2 expression in GBC‐SD and NOZ cells.ConclusionsOur findings suggested that dysregulated expression of DLC1 is involved in proliferation and invasion of GBC cells and may serve as a potential therapeutic target.
Electrophysiological Effects of Kainic Acid on Vasopressin‐Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein and Oxytocin‐Monomeric Red Fluorescent Protein 1 Neurones Isolated from the Supraoptic Nucleus in Transgenic Rats
Authors: Ohkubo J. , Ohbuchi T. , Yoshimura M. , Maruyama T. , Ishikura T. , Matsuura T. , Suzuki H. , Ueta Y. 
Published: December 2013

The supraoptic nucleus (SON) contains two types of magnocellular neurosecretory cells: arginine vasopressin (AVP)‐producing and oxytocin (OXT)‐producing cells. We recently generated and characterised two transgenic rat lines: one expressing an AVP‐enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) and the other expressing an OXT‐monomeric red fluorescent protein 1 (mRFP1). These transgenic rats enable the visualisation of AVP or OXT neurones in the SON. In the present study, we compared the electrophysiological responses of AVP‐eGFP and OXT‐mRFP1 neurones to glutamic acid in SON primary cultures. Glutamate mediates fast synaptic transmission through three classes of ionotrophic receptors: the NMDA, AMPA and kainate receptors. We investigated the contributions of the three classes of ionotrophic receptors in glutamate‐induced currents. Three different antagonists were used, each predominantly selective for one of the classes of ionotrophic receptor. Next, we focused on the kainate receptors (KARs). We examined the electrophysiological effects of kainic acid (KA) on AVP‐eGFP and OXT‐mRFP1 neurones. In current clamp mode, KA induced depolarisation and increased firing rates. These KA‐induced responses were inhibited by the non‐NMDA ionotrophic receptor antagonist 6‐cyano‐7‐nitroquinoxaline‐2,3(1H4H)‐dione in both AVP‐eGFP and OXT‐mRFP1 neurones. In voltage clamp mode, the application of KA evoked inward currents in a dose‐dependent manner. The KA‐induced currents were significantly larger in OXT‐mRFP1 neurones than in AVP‐eGFP neurones. This significant difference in KA‐induced currents was abolished by the GluK1‐containing KAR antagonist UBP302. At high concentrations (250–500 μm), the specific GluK1‐containing KAR agonist (RS)‐2‐amino‐3‐(3‐hydroxy‐5‐tert‐butylisoxazol‐4‐yl) propanoic acid (ATPA) induced significantly larger currents in OXT‐mRFP1 neurones than in AVP‐eGFP neurones. Furthermore, the difference between the AVP‐eGFP and OXT‐mRFP1 neurones in the ATPA currents was approximately equal to the difference in the KA currents. These findings suggest that the GluK1‐containing KARs may be more highly expressed in OXT neurones than in AVP neurones. These results may provide new insight into the physiology and synaptic plasticity of SON neurones.
Evaluating a novel approach to enhancing dysphagia management: workplace‐based, blended e‐learning
Authors: Ilott Irene , Bennett Bev , Gerrish Kate , Pownall Sue , Jones Amanda , Garth Andrew 
Published: December 2013

Aims and objectivesTo evaluate the learning effect and resource use cost of workplace‐based, blended e‐learning about dysphagia for stroke rehabilitation nurses.BackgroundDysphagia is a potentially life‐threatening problem that compromises quality of life. In many countries, nurses play a crucial role in supporting the management of patients with swallowing problems, yet the literature reports a need for training.DesignA single‐group, pre‐ and post‐study with mixed methods.MethodsEach blended e‐learning session comprised a needs analysis, e‐learning programmes, practical skills about modifying fluids and action planning to transfer learning into practice. Participants were the population of registered nurses (n = 22) and healthcare assistants (n = 10) on a stroke rehabilitation ward in a large, teaching hospital in England between August 2010–March 2011. Data collection comprised observation (34 hours), questionnaires administered at four time points to examine change in attitude, knowledge and practice, and estimating the resource use cost for the service. Nonparametric tests and content analysis were used to analyse the data.ResultsAll participants achieved a nationally recognised level of competence. The learning effect was evident on the post‐ and follow‐up measures, with some items of dysphagia knowledge and attitude achieving significance at the p ≤ 0·05 level. The most common self‐reported changes in practice related to medicines management, thickening fluids and oral hygiene. The resource use cost was estimated at £2688 for 108 hours training.ConclusionsWorkplace‐based, blended e‐learning was an acceptable, cost effective way of delivering essential clinical knowledge and skills about dysphagia.Relevance to clinical practiceDysphagia should be viewed as a patient safety issue because of the risks of malnutrition, dehydration and aspiration pneumonia. As such, it is pertinent to many members of the interdisciplinary team. Consideration should be given to including dysphagia management in initial education and continuing professional development programmes.
Plasma and Erythrocyte Glutathione Peroxidase Activity, Serum Selenium Concentration, and Plasma Total Antioxidant Capacity in Cats with IRIS Stages I–IV Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Krofič Žel M. , Tozon N. , Nemec Svete A. 
Published: December 2013

BackgroundSerum selenium concentrations and the activity of plasma glutathione peroxidase (GPx) decrease with the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in human patients. Selenium is considered a limiting factor for plasma GPx synthesis. Plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAC) is decreased in CKD cats in comparison to healthy cats.HypothesisSerum selenium concentrations and plasma and erythrocyte GPx activity in cats with CKD are lower than in healthy cats. Serum selenium concentrations, the activity of enzymes, and plasma TAC progressively decrease with the progression of kidney disease according to IRIS (International Renal Interest Society) classification.AnimalsTwenty‐six client‐owned cats in IRIS stages I–IV of CKD were compared with 19 client‐owned healthy cats.MethodsA CBC, serum biochemical profile, urinalysis, plasma and erythrocyte GPx activity, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC were measured in each cat.ResultsCats in IRIS stage IV CKD had a significantly higher (P = .025) activity of plasma GPx (23.44 ± 6.28 U/mL) than cats in the control group (17.51 ± 3.75 U/mL). There were no significant differences in erythrocyte GPx, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC, either among IRIS stages I–IV CKD cats or between CKD cats and healthy cats.Conclusions and Clinical ImportanceErythrocyte GPx activity, serum selenium concentration, and plasma TAC do not change in CKD cats compared with healthy cats. Selenium is not a limiting factor in feline CKD. Increased plasma GPx activity in cats with stage IV CKD suggests induction of antioxidant defense mechanisms. Antioxidant defense systems might not be exhausted in CKD in cats.
The pharmacokinetics of oclacitinib maleate, a Janus kinase inhibitor, in the dog
Authors: Collard W. T. , Hummel B. D. , Fielder A. F. , King V. L. , Boucher J. F. , Mullins M. A. , Malpas P. B. , Stegemann M. R. 
Published: December 2013

The pharmacokinetics of oclacitinib maleate was evaluated in four separate studies. The absolute bioavailability study used a crossover design with 10 dogs. The effect of food on bioavailability was investigated in a crossover study with 18 dogs. The breed effect on pharmacokinetics was assessed in a crossover study in beagles and mongrels dogs. Dose proportionality and multiple dose pharmacokinetics were evaluated in a parallel design study with eight dogs per group. In all four studies, serial blood samples for plasma were collected. Oclacitinib maleate was rapidly and well absorbed following oral administration, with a time to peak plasma concentration of <1 h and an absolute bioavailability of 89%. The prandial state of dogs did not significantly affect the rate or extent of absorption of oclacitinib maleate when dosed orally, as demonstrated by the lack of significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters between the oral fasted and oral fed treatment groups. The pharmacokinetics of oclacitinib in laboratory populations of beagles and mixed breed dogs also appeared similar. Following oral administration, the exposure of oclacitinib maleate increased dose proportionally from 0.6 to 3.0 mg/kg. Additionally, across the pharmacokinetic studies, there were no apparent differences in oclacitinib pharmacokinetics attributable to sex.
The relative importance of solar radiation and soil origin in cactus seedling survivorship at two spatial scales: plant association and microhabitat
Authors: García‐Chávez Juan H. , Montaña Carlos , Perroni Yareni , Sosa Vinicio J. , García‐Licona José B. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractQuestionWhat is the relative importance of solar radiation intensity and soil origin for cactus establishment at the spatial scales of microhabitat and plant association?LocationTehuacán‐Cuicatlán region, centralMexico.MethodsThe seedling survivorship ofMyrtillocactus geometrizans,Neobuxbaumia tetetzoandOpuntia piliferawas assessed. A garden experiment was conducted involving two light treatments (direct solar radiation and artificial shade) for seedlings growing in soil from different microhabitats (under the canopy of aParkinsonia praecoxnurse plant and in an open area) from three plant associations (tetechera,sotolineraandmezquitera) in a semi‐arid inter‐tropical ecosystem. It was predicted that seedling survival would be higher: (1) under the artificial shade treatment; (2) in soil from the microhabitat under the canopy of the nurse tree; (3) in soil from the plant association with the highest concentrations of carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P); and (iv) in the species with the largest seed mass.ResultsSeedlings of the three species survived better in the shade. Despite the fact that soil taken under nurse plants has a higher concentration of nutrients than that from open areas, seedling survivorship did not differ between these microhabitats.Opuntia pilifera, the species with higher seed mass, survived better thanM. geometrizansandN. tetetzo, whose seedling survival did not differ. Seedling survivorship differed between soils taken from the different plant associations. Higher survival rates were observed in soil from plant associations with the lowest concentration of total and available P (i.e.sotolineraandtetechera) but with a high concentration ofC, totalN, nitrate and ammonium.ConclusionsThe relative importance of shade and soil origin on seedling survivorship depends on the spatial scale. At the microhabitat level, shade is crucial for seedling establishment, whereas soil type is not. However, soil seems important at the plant association scale. An adaptation to the most common habitat of theZapotitlánValley, where soil has high quantities of Ca (as carbonate), little availablePbut relatively high availableN, could explain the better early cactus seedling survivorship in thetetecheraandsotolinera.
Competition and facilitation in synthetic communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Thonar Cécile , Frossard Emmanuel , Šmilauer Petr , Jansa Jan 
Published: December 2013

AbstractInteractions between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) species cocolonizing the same host plant are still little understood in spite of major ecological significance of mycorrhizal symbiosis and widespread occurrence of these fungi in communities rather than alone. Furthermore, shifting the composition of AMF communities has demonstrated consequences for the provision of symbiotic benefits to the host as well as for the qualities of ecosystem services. Therefore, here we addressed the nature and strength of interactions between three different AMF species in all possible two‐species combinations on a gradient of inoculation densities. Fungal communities were established in pots with Medicago truncatula plants, and their composition was assessed with taxon‐specific real‐time PCR markers. Nature of interactions between the fungi was varying from competition to facilitation and was influenced by both the identity and relative abundance of the coinoculated fungi. Plants coinoculated with Claroideoglomus and Rhizophagus grew bigger and contained more phosphorus than with any of these two fungi separately, although these fungi obviously competed for root colonization. On the other hand, plants coinoculated with Gigaspora and Rhizophagus, which facilitated each other's root colonization, grew smaller than with any of these fungi separately. Our results point to as yet little understood complexity of interactions in plant‐associated symbiotic fungal communities, which, depending on their composition, can induce significant changes in plant host growth and/or phosphorus acquisition in either direction.
Successful unrelated umbilical cord blood transplantation for class 3 β‐thalassemia major using a reduced‐toxicity regimen
Authors: Soni Sandeep , Breslin Nancy , Cheerva Alexandra 
Published: December 2013

AbstractUnrelated umbilical CB transplant for class 3 β‐thalassemia major is associated with an increased risk of mortality and non‐engraftment. We describe two patients who underwent successful unrelated umbilical CB transplant using a novel reduced‐toxicity preparative regimen. This regimen may be sufficiently immunosuppressive and myeloablative to ensure engraftment with reduced risks of toxicity and mortality. Close monitoring of HHV‐6 viral load is advised for patients undergoing transplant with this regimen.
Busulfan and melphalan as consolidation therapy with autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation following Children's Oncology Group (COG) induction platform for high‐risk neuroblastoma: Early results from a single institution
Authors: Soni Sandeep , Pai Vinita , Gross Thomas G. , Ranalli Mark 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBu‐Mel as preparative therapy prior to autologous stem cell rescue was recently shown to be superior to the conventional CEM regimen for HR NBL in Europe. There are no data available on the feasibility and toxicity of Bu‐Mel as consolidation therapy following the COG‐type induction regimens used in North America. We report early complications and outcomes of patients with HR NBL who received Bu‐Mel for consolidation following COG‐based induction. Retrospective analysis of all patients who had received Bu‐Mel as preparative regimen prior to stem cell rescue for HR NBL was carried out. Toxicity, outcomes, and any delays to receiving radiation or anti‐GD2 antibody therapy were analyzed. Six patients undergoing PBSCT had received Bu‐Mel. The treatment was well tolerated. Mucositis was the main toxicity; three patients had developed neutropenia fever and none developed pulmonary toxicity. One patient had developed moderate SOS that responded to conservative management. All patients were able to receive and tolerate post‐transplant local radiotherapy and ch.14.18 anti‐GD2 antibody therapy without any delays. All patients are alive with no disease recurrence. The Bu‐Mel regimen is well tolerated and is feasible post‐COG‐type induction platform.
Chemosensitization of Cancer Cells via Gold Nanoparticle‐Induced Cell Cycle Regulation
Authors: Mackey Megan A. , El‐Sayed Mostafa A. 
Published: December 2013

AbstractWe have previously shown that plasmonic nanoparticles conjugated with nuclear‐targeting and cytoplasm‐targeting peptides (NLS and RGD, respectively) are capable of altering the cell cycle of human oral squamous carcinoma cells (HSC‐3). In the present work, we show that this regulation of the cell cycle can be exploited to enhance the efficacy of a common chemotherapeutic agent, 5‐Fluorouracil, by pretreating cells with gold nanoparticles. Utilizing flow cytometry cell cycle analysis, we were able to quantify the 5‐Fluorouracil efficacy as an accumulation of cells in the S phase with a depletion of cells in the G2/M phase. Two gold nanoparticle sizes were tested in this work; 30 nm with a surface plasmon resonance at 530 nm and 15 nm with a surface plasmon resonance at 520 nm. The 30 nm nuclear‐targeted gold nanoparticles (NLS‐AuNPs) showed the greatest 5‐Fluorouracil efficacy enhancement when 5‐Fluorouracil treatment (500 μm, 48 h) is preceded by a 24‐h treatment with nanoparticles. In conclusion, we show that nuclear‐targeted 30 nm gold nanoparticles enhance 5‐Fluorouracil drug efficacy in HSC‐3 cells via regulation of the cell cycle, a chemosensitization technique that could potentially be expanded to different cell lines and different chemotherapies.
The symbolic roots of blood donation
Authors: Charbonneau Johanne , Tran Nathalie Y‐Lang 
Published: December 2013

BackgroundThroughout history, blood has been embedded with powerful and paradoxical connotations. In the last decades, a more rational conception based on scientific knowledge has emerged, portraying blood as a “disenchanted” and utilitarian object, hence more apt for donation between strangers. This study aims to examine blood's representations inQuebec,Canada.Study Design and MethodsData were collected in four separate studies carried out between 2009 and 2011 inQuebec. A total of 234 1 to 1½ hour‐long semi‐structured qualitative interviews were conducted with: 184 donors (including lapsed donors) and 50 nondonors; 106 women and 128 men from a variety of age groups eligible to donate; 76 minority informants fromAsian,Middle‐Eastern,LatinAmerican,African, andCaribbean origins; and 158 informants from the majority society.ResultsMany respondents donated blood because it was a “useful” substance. Others associated blood donation with a gift of vitality, strength, and energy. Some stressed the irreplaceable nature of blood, its rarity, and preciousness. It can also be associated with worrisome representations and seen as “bad” or carry infections: as a fluid, it has the ability to cross troublesome body boundaries.ConclusionThis overview of contemporary representations of blood in relation to blood donation inQuebec illustrates that though this substance might be disenchanted for many, it still maintains its mysteriousness for others, which underpins the importance of its social, cultural, and religious representations that can potentially lead to useful avenues in improving donor recruitment and retention.
Severe pertussis and hyperleukocytosis: is it time to change for exchange?
Authors: Kuperman Amir , Hoffmann Yoav , Glikman Danny , Dabbah Husein , Zonis Zeev 
Published: December 2013

BackgroundPertussis is an important cause of infant death worldwide and continues to be a public health concern even in countries with high vaccination coverage. Severe (critical) pertussis with hyperleukocytosis is a severe form of the disease with up to 80% mortality rate. Attempts have been reported to reduce the white blood cell burden by exchange transfusion (ET) with conflicting conclusions.Case ReportWe report a case of critical pertussis in a neonate who was treated with ET, in view of a comprehensive literature review.ResultsThe patient was discharged without any sequelae.ConclusionET should be considered in all infants suffering from critical pertussis and hyperleukocytosis, even in secondary care community hospitals.
Generation of chimeric piglets by injection of embryonic germ cells from inbred Wuzhishan miniature pigs into blastocysts
Authors: Dong Xiao , Tsung Hsiaochien , Mu Yulian , Liu Lixin , Chen Hongping , Zhang Li , Wang Hongjun , Feng Shutang 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundHuman embryonic stem/germ (ES/EG) cell research poses ethical dilemma, it is therefore critical to establish alternative sources of cells for relevant studies. Considering the similarities between the inbred miniature Wuzhishan pigs (WZSP) and humans, ES/EG from these pigs can serve as potential substitutes in human research. In this study, we reported our results that successfully established stable EG cell lines from the WZSP.MethodsPrimordial germ cells (PGCs) were isolated from the genital ridges of pig fetuses at 25 to 28 days of pregnancy. To obtain stable EG cell line, PGCs were maintained on STO cells in DMEM containing multiple essential growth factors.ResultsTwo EG cell lines were established and characterized by positive alkaline phosphatase staining (AKP), expressions of Oct‐4, SSEA‐1, SSEA‐3, SSEA‐4, ability to differentiate into cells of all three germ layers in vitro, and generation of chimeric offsprings after microinjection and embryo transfer. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated that the cytoplasmic structure of pig EG cells were rather simple and had a higher nuclear‐to‐cytoplasm ratio. Scanning electron microscopy showed the sizes of pig EG cells were similar to mouse EG cells. Both EG cell lines showed normal karyotypes. The EG cells were propagated for more than 20 passages and underwent multiple cycles of freezing and thawing, without losing their pluripotency (as distinguished by AKP staining).ConclusionsBoth in vitro and in vivo evidence strongly demonstrated that EG cells harvested from the inbred miniature WZSP were pluripotent and can be used for relevant pig or human studies.