bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Saffron is a monomorphic species as revealed by RAPD, ISSR and microsatellite analyses
Authors: Rubio-Moraga Angela , Castillo-López Raquel , Gómez-Gómez Lourdes , Ahrazem Oussama 
Published: September 2009

Abstract

Background
Saffron (Crocus sativus) is considered the world's most expensive spice. Used mainly as a colorant for foodstuffs, it is highly appreciated for its aromatic and flavouring properties. Since no molecular markers for this species have been found in the literature, the objective of this study was to determine whether phenotypical differences found in C. sativus were supported by molecular analyses.

Findings
Thirty primers from Operon Technologies were used in random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis, forty eight primers were screened using intersimple sequence repeats (ISSR) method and fifteen primers derived from a microsatellites library flanking sequences with repeat motifs were assayed in forty three isolates of C. sativus from eleven different countries and a C. kotschyanus isolate was used as outgroup. No polymorphic bands were detected in any of the accessions combining the different approaches used in this study.

Conclusion
According to our findings, all accessions appear identical clones, not only because morphological characters but also at a molecular level. These data strongly suggested that C. sativus is a monomorphic species. Thus, genome sequencing is needed to find molecular markers for saffron.
Nonclassic Lipoid Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia Masquerading as Familial Glucocorticoid Deficiency
Authors: Metherell Louise A. , Naville Danielle , Halaby George , Begeot Martine , Huebner Angela , Nürnberg Gudrun , Nürnberg Peter , Green Jane , Tomlinson Jeremy W. , Krone Nils P. , Lin Lin , Racine Michael , Berney Dan M. , Achermann John C. , Arlt Wiebke , Clark Adrian J. L. 
Published: September 2009

Context: Familial glucocorticoid deficiency (FGD) is an autosomal recessive disorder resulting from resistance to the action of ACTH on the adrenal cortex. Affected individuals are deficient in cortisol and, if untreated, are likely to succumb to hypoglycemia and/or overwhelming infection. Mutations of the ACTH receptor (MC2R) and the melanocortin 2 receptor accessory protein (MRAP), FGD types 1 and 2 respectively, account for approximately 45% of cases.
Objective: A locus on chromosome 8 has previously been linked to the disease in three families, but no underlying gene defect has to date been identified.
Design: The study design comprised single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping and mutation detection.
Setting: The study was conducted at secondary and tertiary referral centers.
Patients: Eighty probands from families referred for investigation of the genetic cause of FGD participated in the study.
Interventions: There were no interventions.
Results: Analysis by single-nucleotide polymorphism array of the genotype of one individual with FGD previously linked to chromosome 8 revealed a large region of homozygosity encompassing the steroidogenic acute regulatory protein gene, STAR. We identified homozygous STAR mutations in this patient and his affected siblings. Screening of our total FGD patient cohort revealed homozygous STAR mutations in a further nine individuals from four other families.
Conclusions: Mutations in STAR usually cause lipoid congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a disorder characterized by both gonadal and adrenal steroid deficiency. Our results demonstrate that certain mutations in STAR (R192C and the previously reported R188C) can present with a phenotype indistinguishable from that seen in FGD.
Partial loss-of-function mutations in StAR can present with glucocorticoid deficiency alone; genetic diagnosis in familial glucocorticoid deficiency is therefore important for correct replacement therapy and genetic counseling.
8-Cl-Adenosine Inhibits Proliferation and Causes Apoptosis in B-Lymphocytes via Protein Kinase A-Dependent and Independent Effects: Implications for Treatment of Carney Complex-Associated Tumors
Authors: Robinson-White Audrey J. , Bossis Ioannis , Hsiao Hui-Pin , Nesterova Maria , Leitner Wolfgang W. , Stratakis Constantine A. 
Published: September 2009

Context: Carney complex, a multiple neoplasia syndrome, characterized primarily by spotty skin pigmentation and a variety of endocrine and other tumors, is caused by mutations in PRKAR1A, the gene that codes for the RIα subunit of protein kinase A (PKA). PKA controls cell proliferation in many cell types. The cAMP analogue 8-Cl-adenosine (8-Cl-ADO) is thought to inhibit cancer cell proliferation.Objective: The objective of the study was to study the antiproliferative effects of 8-Cl-ADO on growth and proliferation in B-lymphocytes of Carney complex patients that have PKA defects and to determine whether 8-CL-ADO could be used as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of Carney complex-associated tumors.Design: We used a multiparametric approach (i.e. growth and proliferation assays, PKA, and PKA subunit assays, cAMP and 3H-cAMP binding assays, and apoptosis assays) to understand the growth and proliferative effects of 8-Cl-ADO on human B-lymphocytes.Results: 8-Cl-ADO inhibited proliferation, mainly through its intracellular transport and metabolism, which induced apoptosis. PKA activity, cAMP levels, and 3H-cAMP binding were increased or decreased, respectively, by 8-Cl-ADO, whereas PKA subunit levels were differentially affected. 8-Cl-ADO also inhibited proliferation induced by G protein-coupled receptors for isoproterenol and adenosine, as well as proliferation induced by tyrosine kinase receptors.Conclusions: 8-Cl-ADO in addition to unambiguously inhibiting proliferation and inducing apoptosis in a PKA-independent manner also has PKA-dependent effects that are unmasked by a mutant PRKAR1A. Thus, 8-Cl-ADO could serve as a therapeutic agent in patients with Carney complex-related tumors.8-Cl-adenosine inhibits cancer cell proliferation, and induces apoptosis in B lymphocytes of Carney complex patients by PKA-independent and dependent effects that are unmasked by a mutant PRKAR1A.
Genome-wide expression analyses establish dendritic cells as a new osteoclast precursor able to generate bone-resorbing cells more efficiently than monocytes
Authors: Gallois A , Lachuer J , Yvert G , Wierinckx A , Brunet F , Rabourdin-Combe C , Delprat C , Jurdic P , Mazzorana M 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Dendritic cells (DCs), mononuclear cells that initiate immune responses, and osteoclasts (OCs), multinucleated bone-resorbing cells, are hematopoietic cells derived from monocytic precursor cells. Using in vitro generated dendritic cells, we previously showed that human and murine DCs could transdifferentiate into resorbing osteoclasts in the presence of macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) and receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). In this study we globally compared by transcriptomic profiling this new osteoclast differentiation pathway from DCs with the canonical differentiation pathway from monocytes. DNA chip data revealed that starting from two very distinct cell types, treatment with M-CSF and RANKL generated two highly similar types of osteoclast. In particular, DC-derived osteoclasts expressed all the characteristic marker genes of monocyte-derived osteoclasts. Two major molecular events could be observed during osteoclastogenesis: downregulation of a large set of monocyte or DC specific markers, together with upregulation of characteristic osteoclast marker genes. Most interestingly, our transcriptomic data showed a closer molecular profile between DCs and OCs than between monocytes and OCs. Our data establish DCs as a new osteoclast precursor able to generate OCs more efficiently than monocytes. © 2010 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Drehstromaggregate prüfen ohne WicklungstrennungTest of Three-Phase Aggregates without Coil Separation
Authors: Bähnck Frauke , Wagner Friedrich Ernst 
Published: September 2009

Zusammenfassung
Während bisher die Prüfung der einzelnen Wicklungen von Drehstromaggregaten auf Windungsschluss nur durch Öffnen des Aggregats und Eingriff in die Verdrahtung möglich ist, erlaubt das hier beschriebene Verfahren, die Wicklungswiderstände eines Drehstromaggregats, die Induktivitäten der einzelnen Wicklungen und Verpolungen in den Wicklungssträngen zu bestimmen, ohne die Schaltung auftrennen zu müssen. Zur Durchführung des Verfahrens wurde von den Autoren eine Schaltung und eine Software entwickelt, mit deren Hilfe die Messwerte erfasst und verarbeitet werden, unabhängig davon, ob die Wicklungen im Stern oder im Dreieck liegen und ohne Zugriff auf den Mittelpunkt der Sternschaltung. Die Einführung dieses computergeführten Prüfverfahrens in der Qualitätssicherung von Drehstromaggregaten sorgt für eine neue zerstörungsfreie, zeit- und kosteneffiziente Prüfmöglichkeit.
Synthesis and crystallographic structure of boron derivatives of N-(2-hydroxy-naphthylmethyl)-L-proline
Authors: Gawdzik Barbara , Iwanek Waldemar , Hoser Anna , Wozniak Krzysztof 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
A highly diastereoselective synthesis (>98%) of novel chiral (3aS)-4-oxo-6-phenyl-2,3,3a,4,6,14-hexahydro-1H-naphtho[1,2-e]pyrrolo[1′,2′:3,4][1,3,2]oxazaborolo-[2,3-b][1,3,2]oxazaborinin-15-ium-6-uide (2a) and (3aS)-6-(naphthalen-2-yl)-4-oxo-2,3,3a,4,6,14-hexahydro-1H-naphtho[1,2-e]pyrrolo[1′,2′:3,4][1,3,2]oxazaborolo[2,3-b][1,3,2] oxazaborinin-15-ium-6-uide (2b) compounds is described and details of the crystal structures are presented.
The effect of body mass index on the diagnosis of GH deficiency in patients at risk due to a pituitary insult
Authors: Tzanela Marinella , Zianni Dimitra , Bilariki Kalliopi , Vezalis Alexandros , Gavalas Nikos , Szabo Andrea , Drimala Panagiota , Vassiliadi Dimitra , Vassilopoulos Charalambos 
Published: September 2009

ObjectivesDiminished GH response to stimulation has been demonstrated in obesity, leading to erroneous diagnosis of GH deficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of body mass index (BMI) on GH responsiveness in patients at risk for pituitary function deficits.MethodsA total of 59 healthy subjects and 75 patients with a pituitary insult underwent insulin tolerance test or pyridostigmine+GHRH test in order to assess GH secretory reserve. Normal subjects and patients were classified as normal weight (BMI <24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2), and obese (BMI >30 kg/m2).ResultsAll normal individuals with BMI <24.9 kg/m2 demonstrated adequate GH responses, while three of the 21 overweight (14.3%) and nine of the 28 obese subjects (32.1%) did not respond to GH stimulation. Among patients, four of 14 (28.6%) with BMI <24.9 kg/m2, 18 of 22 (81.8%) who were overweight, and 28 of 39 (71.7%) who were obese did not respond to GH stimulation. Of the 46 nonresponder patients with increased BMI, nine (19.6%) had normal insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF1) values and no other pituitary hormone deficits, raising questions about the accuracy of somatotroph function assessment, while all nonresponders with BMI <24.9 kg/m2 had low IGF1 values and panhypopituitarism.ConclusionsOur results indicate that BMI >25 kg/m2 has a negative effect on GH response not only in normal healthy subjects but also in patients at risk for pituitary function deficit as well. Parameters such as IGF1 levels and anterior pituitary deficits should be taken into account to accurately assess GH status in these patients.
Gamma knife radiosurgery: a safe and effective salvage treatment for pituitary tumours not controlled despite conventional radiotherapy
Authors: Swords F M , Monson J P , Besser G M , Chew S L , Drake W M , Grossman A B , Plowman P N 
Published: September 2009

ObjectiveWe report the use of ‘gamma knife’ (GK) radiosurgery in 25 patients with pituitary adenomas not cured despite conventional therapy, including external beam radiotherapy.Patients and methodsAll patients had previously received conventional radiotherapy for a mean of 11.8 years prior to receiving GK; 23 out of 25 had also undergone pituitary surgery on at least one occasion. Seventeen had hyperfunctioning adenomas that still required medical therapy without an adequate biochemical control – ten somatotroph adenomas, six corticotroph adenomas and one prolactinoma, while eight patients had non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs).ResultsFollowing GK, mean GH fell by 49% at 1 year in patients with somatotroph tumours. Serum IGF1 fell by 32% at 1 year and by 38% at 2 years. To date, 80% of the patients with acromegaly have achieved normalisation of IGF1, and 30% have also achieved a mean GH level of <1.8 ng/ml correlating with normalised mortality. A total of 75% NFPAs showed disease stabilisation or shrinkage post GK. The patient with a prolactinoma showed a dramatic response: 75% reduction in prolactin at 2 years, with a marked shrinkage on magnetic resonance imaging. The results in corticotroph adenomas were variable. Prior to GK, 72% of the patients were panhypopituitary, and 42% of the remainder have developed new anterior pituitary hormone deficiencies to date. No other adverse events have been detected at a mean follow-up of 36.4 months.ConclusionsThese data indicate that GK is a safe and effective adjunctive treatment for patients with NFPAs and acromegaly not satisfactorily controlled with surgery and radiotherapy.
Free leptin index and thyroid function in male highly trained athletes
Authors: Perseghin Gianluca , Lattuada Guido , Ragogna Francesca , Alberti Giampietro , La Torre Antonio , Luzi Livio 
Published: September 2009

ObjectiveExercise training may cause changes in thyroid function. This thyroid response may be due to exercise-induced modulation of energy metabolism but also of the adipocytes endocrine function. In particular, the role of leptin and of circulating soluble leptin receptor (sOB-R) was unexplored. The aim of this study was to assess the relationships between thyroid function, whole body energy metabolism, and adipokines – mainly leptin and its receptor, sOB-R.MethodsWe measured serum TSH, free tri-iodothyronine (FT3), free thyroxine, leptin, and sOB-R and assessed energy homeostasis by means of indirect calorimetry, in 27 highly trained athletes and 27 sedentary, healthy men.ResultsTSH–FT3 ratio was lower in athletes (P<0.03), either in sustained power or anaerobic power-sprint athletes (n=13) or marathon runners (n=14). Whole body respiratory quotient was lower in athletes. Fasting serum sOB-R was higher and leptin lower in athletes than controls. Also serum adiponectin, resistin, and retinol binding protein-4 concentrations were different in athletes than in controls. The ratio between leptin and sOB-R, the free leptin index (FLI), was lower in athletes than in controls (0.025±0.014 vs 0.085±0.049; P<0.001). In multivariate analysis, FLI retained independent association with TSH–FT3 ratio.ConclusionMale, elite athletes had lower TSH–FT3 ratio and FLI than controls while FLI was independently associated with TSH–FT3 ratio supporting the hypothesis that the level of biologically active leptin is involved in the adaptive response of thyroid function in professional athletes.
Narrow intra-individual variation of maternal thyroid function in pregnancy based on a longitudinal study on 132 women
Authors: Boas Malene , Forman Julie Lyng , Juul Anders , Feldt-Rasmussen Ulla , Skakkebæk Niels Erik , Hilsted Linda , Chellakooty Marla , Larsen Torben , Larsen Jørgen Falck , Petersen Jørgen H , Main Katharina M 
Published: September 2009

BackgroundAdaptive alterations in maternal physiology cause changes in thyroid hormone levels throughout pregnancy, and precise biochemical evaluation is thus highly dependent on gestation-specific reference intervals and expected intra-individual variation.ObjectiveThe aim of the study was the assessment of the intra-individual variation as well as the longitudinal course of thyroid hormones during normal pregnancy and factors that influence the normal reference range for thyroid function. For this purpose, a longitudinal statistical model was applied.DesignIn a cohort of 132 pregnant women, serial blood samples were obtained and ultrasound scans were performed throughout pregnancy.MethodsSerum levels of TSH, free and total thyroxine (T4), free and total triiodothyronine (T3) as well as autoantibodies against thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin were measured in 979 serum samples.ResultsIntra-individual variations of thyroid hormone concentrations were smaller than inter-individual variations (individuality index range: 0.38–0.71). Maternal height was positively associated with free T4 (FT4) (b=0.003; P=0.031) and pre-pregnancy body mass index with T3 and free T3 (b=0.017; <0.001 and b=0.007; P<0.001). Smoking was positively associated with T4 and FT4, but it was modulated by gestational age. Gestation-specific reference intervals for thyroid function variables from autoantibody-negative participants are presented.ConclusionsIn accordance with the data from nonpregnant adults, intra-individual variations of thyroid hormones were smaller than inter-individual variations also during pregnancy. In the evaluation of thyroid function in pregnancy, the individual longitudinal course of thyroid hormones rather than absolute values should be considered. We present a longitudinal model for the prediction of maternal thyroid function tests in pregnant women.
Using Patient Safety Science to Explore Strategies for Improving Safety in Intravenous Medication Administration
Authors: Franklin Michelle 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Harm is more likely to result from errors in intravenous (IV) administration than through any other routes of administration. Infusion therapies are delivered in a variety of settings every day, including hospitals, home care settings, long-term care facilities, occupational health facilities, outpatient clinics, and physician offices. Understanding the basic principles of patient safety and developing strategies to reduce risk and severity are critical to improving the safety of IV medication administration. Consistent implementation of accepted strategies to prevent error is long overdue in the practice of IV medication administration. This article challenges the reader to develop a better understanding of patient-safety science, thoroughly investigate the causes of IV medication administration errors, and develop processes to mitigate the recurrence of similar errors.
A Nurse-Driven Peripherally Inserted Central CatheterTeam Exhibits Excellence Through Teamwork
Authors: Ean Renee , Kirmse Jane , Roslien Jennifer , Dickerson Kate , Grimes Elizabeth , Lowrie Angela , Woodman Kim 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Studies have demonstrated that a dedicated peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) team can reduce costs, lead to efficient use of staff time, improve patient outcomes, and improve organizational performance. A dedicated, nurse-driven PICC team at the authors' facility has demonstrated excellence through teamwork. Over the past three years, the PICC team has made significant strides in the quality of service provided to patients. The goals of the team consisted of (1) improving PICC-placement success rates; (2) developing an electronic database to track patient outcomes; (3) constructing protocols and guidelines to improve efficiency, appropriate use of PICC lines, and patient safety; and (4) pursuing collaborative research projects, publications, and presentations at the local and national level.
The Advantages of a Precision-engineered Securement Device for Fixation of Arterial Pressure-monitoring Catheters
Authors: Stephenson Catharine 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
A prospective, sequential, controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the clinical and cost consequences of securing arterial catheters with a precision-engineered securement device compared with tape and transparent membrane dressing (TMD). Tape and TMD securement resulted in an unscheduled catheter restart rate of 25%; the study device resulted in an unscheduled catheter restart rate of 12.8%. The difference was highly significant (P &lt; .001).
The Importance of Child Life and Pain Management During Vascular Access Procedures in Pediatrics
Authors: Heckler-Medina Gail A. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
The author asks of the reader: Have you ever been called to start a peripheral intravenous (IV) catheter or place a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) in a child, and you wished someone else could do it? Performing vascular access procedures on children is considered by many one of the most stressful and difficult jobs. This article discusses the role of certified child life specialists (CCLSs) and some of the techniques used to assist children in coping with painful procedures as well as the necessity for proper assessment and pain management. The goal of this article is to eliminate the uncertainty of performing these procedures on pediatric patients. By making a few changes in your practice, one could dramatically increase successful outcomes and improve the overall quality of care provided to the patient.
Trimming of Peripherally Inserted Central Catheters: The End Result
Authors: Pettit Janet 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
A debate surfaced in the neonatal literature over two years ago questioning the safety and efficacy of trimming peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) prior to insertion. An investigation was undertaken to define the risks and benefits of doing so and evaluate the methods of trimming PICCs. When trimmed by 1 of 3 methods, conclusive evidence revealed that the method of catheter trimming affects the integrity of the catheter tip. Additional study is required to determine whether catheter tip alteration impacts patient outcomes.
Vascular Access Nursing Practice, Standards of Care, and Strategies to Prevent Infection: A Review of Skin Cleansing Agents and Dressing Materials (Part I of a 3-Part Series)
Authors: Richardson Deborah 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
This three-part series of articles (parts 2 and 3 will be published in the Spring and Summer 2007 journal issues, respectively) will include information appropriate for the novice and the expert vascular access nurse. The series will include primers on vascular access devices, along with review of skin cleansing agents, dressing materials, catheter flush solutions, and injection caps. The focus of the article series will be the issue of catheter-related bloodstream infection, practice, technologies developed to prevent or decrease infections, current standards, and guidelines and preventive strategies.
Heparin Locking for Central Venous Catheters
Authors: Hadaway Lynn 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Traditionally, heparin-lock solution has been used with all central venous catheters. The introduction of new technology calling for the elimination of heparin and the growing concerns about the use of heparin have caused many health care professionals to question its continued use for this purpose. This literature review attempts to answer the most common questions using available research; however, there continues to be more questions than answers. At present, it appears that some farm of anticoagulant will produce more patent catheters, and heparin-lock solution is the only product commercially available. This situation drives the need for a careful assessment of patients' needs prior to abandoning the use of heparin.