bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spectral and oscillation theory for general second order Sturm-Liouville difference equations
Authors: Šimon Hilscher Roman 
Published: June 2012

Abstract
In this article we establish an oscillation theorem for second order Sturm-Liouville difference equations with general nonlinear dependence on the spectral parameter λ. This nonlinear dependence on λ is allowed both in the leading coefficient and in the potential. We extend the traditional notions of eigenvalues and eigenfunctions to this more general setting. Our main result generalizes the recently obtained oscillation theorem for second order Sturm-Liouville difference equations, in which the leading coefficient is constant in λ. Problems with Dirichlet boundary conditions as well as with variable endpoints are considered.

Mathematics Subject Classification 2010: 39A21; 39A12.
Efficient inhibition of HIV-1 replication by an artificial polycistronic miRNA construct
Authors: Zhang Tao , Cheng Tong , Wei Lihua , Cai Yijun , Yeo Anthony Et , Han Jiahuai , Yuan Y Adam , Zhang Jun , Xia Ningshao 
Published: June 2012

Abstract

Background
RNA interference (RNAi) has been used as a promising approach to inhibit human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) replication for both in vitro and in vivo animal models. However, HIV-1 escape mutants after RNAi treatment have been reported. Expressing multiple small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) against conserved viral sequences can serve as a genetic barrier for viral escape, and optimization of the efficiency of this process was the aim of this study.

Results
An artificial polycistronic transcript driven by a CMV promoter was designed to inhibit HIV-1 replication. The artificial polycistronic transcript contained two pre-miR-30a backbones and one pre-miR-155 backbone, which are linked by a sequence derived from antisense RNA sequence targeting the HIV-1 env gene. Our results demonstrated that this artificial polycistronic transcript simultaneously expresses three anti-HIV siRNAs and efficiently inhibits HIV-1 replication. In addition, the biosafety of MT-4 cells expressing this polycistronic miRNA transcript was evaluated, and no apparent impacts on cell proliferation rate, interferon response, and interruption of native miRNA processing were observed.

Conclusions
The strategy described here to generate an artificial polycistronic transcript to inhibit viral replication provided an opportunity to select and optimize many factors to yield highly efficient constructs expressing multiple siRNAs against viral infection.
The complement system of the goat: Haemolytic assays and isolation of major proteins
Authors: Moreno-Indias Isabel , Dodds Alister W , Argüello Anastasio , Castro Noemi , Sim Robert B 
Published: June 2012

AbstractBackgroundThe aim of the present study was to develop a haemolytic assay for the study of the complement system in dairy goats (Capra aegagrus hircus) and to characterize the major goat complement system proteins.ResultsThe commonly used sheep erythrocyte sensitized with rabbit antibodies were not sensitive to lysis by goat serum, but the combination of human red blood cells (RBC) plus rabbit antibodies was the best option found for goat complement assay. A buffer based on HEPES instead of the classical veronal (barbitone) was developed. Three proteins were isolated: factor H, C1q and C3 and these were compared with the corresponding human proteins. A novel affinity chromatography technique was developed for isolation of factor H.ConclusionsHuman RBC plus rabbit antibodies were a suitable option for haemolytic assays. The isolated proteins are similar to the human counterparts.
Neuropsychological profile and clinical effects of arginine treatment in children with creatine transport deficiency
Authors: Chilosi Annamaria , Casarano Manuela , Comparini Alessandro , Battaglia Francesca Maria , Mancardi Margherita Maria , Schiaffino Cristina , Tosetti Michela , Leuzzi Vincenzo , Battini Roberta , Cioni Giovanni 
Published: June 2012

Abstract

Background
SLC6A8, an X-linked gene, encodes the creatine transporter (CRTR) and its mutations lead to cerebral creatine (Cr) deficiency which results in mental retardation, speech and language delay, autistic-like behaviour and epilepsy (CRTR-D, OMIM 300352). CRTR-D represents the most frequent Cr metabolism disorder but, differently from Cr synthesis defects, that are partially reversible by oral Cr supplementation, does not respond to Cr treatment even if precociously administrated. The precursors of Cr are the non-essential amino acids Glycine (Gly) and Arginine (Arg), which have their own transporters at the brain–blood barrier level and, therefore, their supplementation appears an attractive and feasible therapeutic option aimed at stimulating Cr endogenous synthesis and, in this way, at overcoming the block of Cr transport within the brain. However, until now the effects of Arg and/or Gly supplementation on Cr brain levels and behaviour have been controversial.

Methods
In this study five Italian male patients affected by CRTR-D were supplemented with oral L-Arg at a dosage of 300 mg/kg/day divided into 3 doses, for 24–36 months. Biochemical and plasmatic amino acids examinations and thyroid hormone dosages were periodically performed. Moreover, Proton and Phosphorus Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy (MRS) was monitored during follow-up in concurrence with neuropsychological evaluations.

Results
During L-Arg treatment a clinical improvement in motor skills and to a lesser extent in communication and attention was observed. In addition, all patients had a reduction in the number and frequency of epileptic seizures. Daily living skills appeared also to be positively influenced by L-Arg treatment. Moreover, Total Cr and especially PhosphoCr, evaluated by proton and phosphorus spectroscopy, showed a mild increase, although well below the normal range.

Conclusion
This study provides information to support the effectiveness of L-Arg supplement treatment in CTRT-D patients; in fact the syndromic pattern of cognitive and linguistic deficit presented by CRTR-D patients was partially altered by L-Arg supplementation especially at a qualitative clinical level. Oral L-Arg may represent not only a protective factor towards a further cognitive decline, but can lead to the acquisition of new skills.
Changes in the anti-inflammatory activity of soy isoflavonoid genistein versus genistein incorporated in two types of cyclodextrin derivatives
Authors: Danciu CorinaTiulea , Soica Codruta , Csanyi Erzsebet , Ambrus Rita , Feflea Stefana , Peev Camelia , Dehelean Cristina 
Published: June 2012

Abstract

Background
The isoflavonoid genistein represents the major active compound from soybean, the vegetal product from Glycine max (Fabaceae). The aim of this study is to prove that genistein was incorporated in two semisynthetic cyclodextrins, beta-cyclodextrin derivatives: hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin and randomly-methylated-beta-cyclodextrin as well as to compare the anti-inflammatory activity of genistein with that of genistein incorporated in these two types of semisynthetic cyclodextrins.

Results
The animal studies were conducted on 8-week old C57BL/6 J female mice. Inflammation was induced in both ears of each mouse by topical application of 10 micrograms 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-3-acetate dissolved in 0.1 ml solvent (acetone : dimethylsulfoxide in a molar ratio 9:1). Thirty minutes later treatment was applied. The inflammatory reaction was correlated with increased values in ear thickness. Treatment with genistein and genistein incorporated in the two cyclodextrins led to decreased values for ear thickness. Better anti-inflammatory action was found for the complexes of genistein. Both haematoxylin-eosin analysis and CD45 marker expression are in agreement with these findings.

Conclusions
Results allow concluding that genistein is an active anti-inflammatory phytocompound and its complexation with hydrophilic beta-cyclodextrin derivatives leads to a stronger anti-inflammatory activity.
Chylous ascites and chylothorax due to constrictive pericarditis in a patient infected with HIV: a case report
Authors: Summachiwakij Sarawut , Tungsubutra Wiwun , Koomanachai Pornpan , Charoenratanakul Suchai 
Published: June 2012

Abstract

Introduction
Chylothorax and chylous ascites are uncommon and usually associated with trauma or neoplasms. To the best of our knowledge, constrictive pericarditis leading to chylothorax and chylous ascites in a person infected with HIV has never previously been described.

Case presentation
A 39-year-old Thai man was referred to our institute with progressive dyspnea, edema and abdominal distension. His medical history included HIV infection and pulmonary tuberculosis that was complicated by tuberculous pericarditis and cardiac tamponade. Upon further investigation, we found constrictive pericarditis, chylothorax and chylous ascites. A pericardiectomy was performed which resulted in gradual resolution of the ascites and chylous effusion.

Conclusions
Although constrictive pericarditis is an exceptionally rare cause of chylothorax and chylous ascites, it should nonetheless be considered in the differential diagnosis as a potentially reversible cause.
Diagnosis of HEV infection by serological and real-time PCR assays: a study on acute non-A-C hepatitis collected from 2004 to 2010 in Italy
Authors: Candido Angela , Taffon Stefania , Chionne Paola , Pisani Giulio , Madonna Elisabetta , Dettori Stefano , Hamza Abir , Valdarchi Catia , Bruni Roberto , Ciccaglione Anna Rita 
Published: June 2012

Abstract

Background
The impact of hepatitis E in developed countries, like Italy, still requires a clear definition. In the present study, we evaluated HEV infection in patients with acute non-A-C hepatitis by an approach comparing data from Real-time PCR and serological assays.

Methods
In a first analysis, sera from 52 patients hospitalized with a diagnosis of acute viral non-A-C hepatitis in Italy were tested by in-house Real-Time PCR assay for identification of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) RNA and by anti-HEV IgM and IgG assays. In a subsequent analysis, selected samples were evaluated by additional IgM tests to confirm diagnosis.

Results
Among the 52 samples, 21 showed positive results for all three markers (IgM, IgG and HEV RNA). One patient showed HEV RNA as single marker. Uncertain results were found in 8 samples while the remaining 22 were negative for all markers. Further analysis of the 8 undefined samples by additional IgM tests confirmed HEV infection in 1 patient. Overall, acute HEV infections were reliably identified in 23 (44.2%) out of 52 patients.

Conclusions
In the present paper, we performed a study evaluating HEV infection in 52 sporadic non-A-C acute hepatitis cases. All samples were collected from 2004 to 2010 in Italy. By a diagnostic strategy based on genomic and serological assays we identified HEV infections in 23 out of 52 patients (44.2%), a percentage higher than previous estimates. Thus, the actual impact of HEV infections in Italy needs to be further evaluated on a national scale by a diagnostic strategy based on multiple and last generation assays.
DSCR9 gene simultaneous expression in placental, testicular and renal tissues from baboon (papio hamadryas)
Authors: Rodriguez-Sanchez Irám Pablo , Garza-Rodríguez María Lourdes , Tejero María Elizabeth , Cole Shelley A , Comuzzie Anthony G , Barrera-Saldaña Hugo Alberto 
Published: June 2012

Abstract

Background
In 2002 Takamatsu and co-workers described the human DSCR9 gene and observed that it was transcriptionally active in human testicular tissue, but no protein was identified as a product of this transcript. Similar results were obtained in chimpanzee tissue. This gene has not been detected in species other than primates, suggesting that DSCR9 is exclusively found in these mammals.

Results
We report evidence of DSCR9 expression in placenta, testis and kidney of baboon (Papio hamadryas). We used primers specific for DSCR9 to amplify transcripts through reverse transcription (RT) coupled to polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Furthermore, PCR was used to amplify the complete DSCR9 gene from genomic DNA from three baboons. We amplified and sequenced five overlapping segments that were assembled into the 3284 bp baboon DSCR9 gene, including the putative promoter and the entire transcriptional unit (5'-UTR, CDS and 3'-UTR).

Conclusions
The baboon DSCR9 gene is highly similar to the human counterpart. The isolated transcripts from baboon tissues (placenta, testis and kidney) of three different baboons correspond to the human orthologous gene.
Prognostic value of unrelated atypical serum immunofixation patterns during Multiple Myeloma therapy
Authors: Guimarães Cristina , Bergantim Rui , Ramalho Renata , Couto Nuno , Guimarães João T , Trigo Fernanda 
Published: June 2012

Abstract
Autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) is the gold standard therapy for suitable multiple myeloma (MM) patients after induction with high dose therapy. To date, the evidence of a reliable marker of prognosis in these cases remains scarce. Our aim was to evaluate appearance of unrelated atypical serum immunofixation patterns (ASIPs) as a marker of prognosis in MM patients submitted to ASCT. We retrospectively analysed data from 65 patients. Interestingly, we observed that presence of ASIPs was associated with longer progression-free survival and longer overall survival. Our results suggested that presence of ASIPs could be a novel marker of good prognosis in MM patients submitted to ASCT.
Update on leukotriene receptor antagonists in preschool children wheezing disorders
Authors: Montella Silvia , Maglione Marco , De Stefano Sara , Manna Angelo , Di Giorgio Angela , Santamaria Francesca 
Published: June 2012

AbstractAsthma is the most common chronic disease in young children. About 40% of all preschool children regularly wheeze during common cold infections. The heterogeneity of wheezing phenotypes early in life and various anatomical and emotional factors unique to young children present significant challenges in the clinical management of this problem. Anti-inflammatory therapy, mainly consisting of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS), is the cornerstone of asthma management. Since Leukotrienes (LTs) are chemical mediators of airway inflammation in asthma, the leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) are traditionally used as potent anti-inflammatory drugs in the long-term treatment of asthma in adults, adolescents, and school-age children. In particular, montelukast decreases airway inflammation, and has also a bronchoprotective effect. The main guidelines on asthma management have confirmed the clinical utility of LTRAs in children older than five years. In the present review we describe the most recent advances on the use of LTRAs in the treatment of preschool wheezing disorders. LTRAs are effective in young children with virus-induced wheeze and with multiple-trigger disease. Conflicting data do not allow to reach definitive conclusions on LTRAs efficacy in bronchiolitis or post-bronchiolitis wheeze, and in acute asthma. The excellent safety profile of montelukast and the possibility of oral administration, that entails better compliance from young children, represent the main strengths of its use in preschool children. Montelukast is a valid alternative to ICS especially in poorly compliant preschool children, or in subjects who show adverse effects related to long-term steroid therapy.
Elaidyl-sulfamide, an oleoylethanolamide-modelled PPARα agonist, reduces body weight gain and plasma cholesterol in rats
Authors: Decara Juan Manuel , Romero-Cuevas Miguel , Rivera Patricia , Macias-González Manuel , Vida Margarita , Pavón Franciso J. , Serrano Antonia , Cano Carolina , Fresno Nieves , Pérez-Fernández Ruth , Rodríguez de Fonseca Fernando , Suárez Juan 
Published: June 2012

Summary
We have modelled elaidyl-sulfamide (ES), a sulfamoyl analogue of oleoylethanolamide (OEA). ES is a lipid mediator of satiety that works through the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα). We have characterised the pharmacological profile of ES (0.3-3 mg/kg) by means of in silico molecular docking to the PPARα receptor, in vitro transcription through PPARα and in vitro and in vivo administration to obese rats. ES interacts with the PPARα binding site in a similar way to OEA, is capable of activating PPARα and also reduces feeding in a dose-dependent manner when administered to food-deprived rats. When ES was given to obese male rats for 7 days, it reduced feeding and weight gain, lowered plasma cholesterol and reduced the plasmatic activity of transaminases, indicating a clear improvement of hepatic function. This pharmacological profile is associated with the modulation of both cholesterol and lipid metabolism regulatory genes, including the sterol response element-binding proteins SREBF1/2 and their regulatory proteins INSIG1/2 in liver and white adipose tissues. ES treatment induced the expression of thermogenic regulatory genes, including the uncoupling proteins UCP1/2/3 in brown adipose tissue and UCP3 in white adipose tissue. However, its chronic administration resulted in hyperglycaemia and insulin resistance, which represent a constraint for its potential clinical development.
Clinical data and characterization of the liver conditional mouse model exclude neoplasia as a non-neurological manifestation associated with Friedreich's ataxia
Authors: Martelli Alain , Friedman Lisa S. , Reutenauer Laurence , Messaddeq Nadia , Perlman Susan L. , Lynch David R. , Fedosov Kathrin , Schulz Jörg B. , Pandolfo Massimo , Puccio Hélène 
Published: June 2012

Summary
Friedreich’s ataxia (FRDA) is the most common hereditary ataxia in the caucasian population and is characterized by a mixed spinocerebellar and sensory ataxia, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and increased incidence of diabetes. FRDA is caused by impaired expression of the FXN gene coding for the mitochondrial protein frataxin. During the past ten years, the development of mouse models of FRDA has allowed better understanding of the pathophysiology of the disease. Among the mouse models of FRDA, the liver conditional mouse model pointed to a tumor suppressor activity of frataxin leading to the hypothesis that individuals with FRDA might be predisposed to cancer. In the present work, we investigated the presence and the incidence of neoplasia in the largest FRDA patient cohorts from the USA, Australia and Europe. As no predisposition to cancer could be observed in both cohorts, we revisited the phenotype of the liver conditional mouse model. Our results show that frataxin-deficient livers developed early mitochondriopathy, iron-sulfur cluster deficits and intramitochondrial dense deposits, classical hallmarks observed in frataxin-deficient tissues and cells. With age, a minority of mice developed structures similar to the ones previously associated with tumor formation. However, these peripheral structures contained dying, frataxin-deficient hepatocytes, whereas the inner liver structure was composed of a pool of frataxin-positive cells, due to inefficient Cre-mediated recombination of the Fxn gene, that contributed to regeneration of a functional liver. Altogether, our data demonstrate that frataxin deficiency and tumorigenesis are not associated.
Enhanced recovery programmes in hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Hall TC , Dennison AR , Bilku DK , Metcalfe MS , Garcea G 
Published: June 2012

INTRODUCTION The terms ‘enhanced recovery after surgery’, ‘enhanced recovery programme’ (ERP) and ‘fast track surgery’ refer to multimodal strategies aiming to streamline peri-operative care pathways, to maximise effectiveness and minimise costs. While the results of ERP in colorectal surgery are well reported, there have been no reviews examining if these concepts could be applied safely to hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) surgery. The aim of this systematic review was to appraise the current evidence for ERP in HPB surgery. METHODS A MEDLINE® literature search was undertaken using the keywords ‘enhanced recovery’, ‘fast-track’, ‘peri-operative’, ‘surgery’, ‘pancreas’ and ‘liver’ and their derivatives such as ‘pancreatic’ or ‘hepatic’. The primary endpoint was length of post-operative hospital stay. Secondary endpoints were morbidity, mortality and readmission rate. RESULTS Ten articles were retrieved describing an ERP. ERP protocols varied slightly between studies. A reduction in length of stay was a consistent finding following the incorporation of ERP when compared with historical controls. This was not at the expense of increased rates of readmission, morbidity or mortality in any study. CONCLUSIONS The introduction of an ERP in HPB surgery appears safe and feasible. Currently, many of the principles of the multimodal pathway are derived from the colorectal ERP and distinct differences exist, which may impede its implementation in HPB surgery.
Periprosthetic fractures around total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Sarmah SS , Patel S , Reading G , El-Husseiny M , Douglas S , Haddad FS 
Published: June 2012

INTRODUCTION The number of total knee arthroplasties performed continues to rise annually and it would be expected that complications, which include periprosthetic fractures, will also therefore become more commonplace. This article reviews the current literature regarding this injury and identifies the treatment principles that enable patients to regain optimal function. METHODS A comprehensive search of the Pubmed and Embase™ databases was performed to identify relevant articles. Keywords and MeSH (Medical Subject Headings) terms included in the search strategy were ‘periprosthetic fracture(s)’, ‘femur’, ‘tibia’, ‘patella(r)’, ‘complication(s)’, ‘failure(s)’, ‘risk(s)’, ‘prevalence’, ‘incidence’, ‘epidemiology’ and ‘classification(s)’. The search was limited to all articles published in English and reference lists from the original articles were reviewed to identify pertinent articles to include in this review. A total number of 43 studies were identified. RESULTS Common treatment aims have been identified when managing patients with a periprosthetic fracture around total knee arthoplasty. The main criterion that determines which option to choose is the degree of remaining bone stock and the amount of fracture displacement. CONCLUSIONS Treatment of a periprosthetic fracture around total knee arthroplasty will either be non-operative, osteosynthesis or revision arthroplasty. It is imperative that a suitable option is chosen and based on the published literature, pathways are outlined to aid the surgeon.
Diplomatie - Kriegspropaganda - “Landesverrat”. Die deutschen Reaktionen auf die Denkschrift “Meine Londoner Mission 1912–1914” von Karl Max Fürst von Lichnowsky
Authors: Koch Christian 
Published: June 2012

Zusammenfassung
Karl Max Fürst von Lichnowsky, ehemaliger Botschafter in Großbritannien hatte seine Denkschrift 1916 unter Entscheidungsträgern und Persönlichkeiten des öffentlichen Lebens in Deutschland zirkulieren lassen. Im März 1918 erfolgte eine nicht-autorisierte Publikation der Denkschrift in Schweden. Die alliierte Feindpropaganda griff die Publikation, die sich vor allem kritisch mit der deutschen Politik in der Julikrise 1914 auseinandersetzte, dankbar auf. Aufbauend auf die Überlieferung des Bundesarchivs zeigt der Aufsatz die Brisanz des Dokuments auf und schildert die Bemühungen der Reichsregierung, den ehemaligen Botschafter juristisch zu belangen. Der Beitrag untersucht anschließend die Einbindung der Denkschrift in die Propagandabemühungen der Entente im letzten Weltkriegsjahr und die letztlich erfolglosen Anstrengungen der deutschen Gegenpropaganda, die Wirkung der Veröffentlichung in der Öffentlichkeit, in den Streitkräften und im neutralen Ausland zu begrenzen.