bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Temporal variations in early gut microbial colonization are associated with allergen‐specific immunoglobulin E but not atopic eczema at 2 years of age
Authors: Storrø O. , Øien T. , Langsrud Ø. , Rudi K. , Dotterud C. , Johnsen R. 
Published: July 2011

Summary
Background Intestinal microbiota undergoes substantial development during the first 2 years of life, important for intestinal immunologic development and maturation influencing systemic immune responses.
Objective We aimed to investigate, using a prospective study design, whether allergen‐specific IgE (sIgE) and atopic eczema are associated with variations in gut microbial colonization patterns in an unselected population during the first 2 years of life.
Methods Faeces from 94 infants were repeatedly sampled from 10 days, 4 months, 1 and 2 years postnatal and analysed for 12 different bacterial species by quantitative real‐time PCR. Venous blood samples from the infants were collected at 2 years of age and were analysed for sIgE for 12 specific allergens. The temporal gut colonization patterns for 42 sIgE‐positive (sIgE⩾0.35 kU/L) and 52 sIgE‐negative children (sIgE<0.1 kU/L) were then compared. The association between colonization pattern and phenotype as atopic eczema according to UK Working Party (UKWP) criteria were also described.
Results Subjects with atopic sensitization had lower levels of Escherichia coli at 4 months and 1 year, higher levels of Bifidobacterium longum at 1 year and lower levels of Bacteroides fragilis at 2 years. For E. coli and B. longum, the differences were only transient and had disappeared by 2 years of age. For other species, there were no differences in colonization patterns, and we found no association between colonization pattern and atopic eczema.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance We found temporal and transient variations in gut microbial colonization patterns associated with differences in sIgE sensitization at 2 years of age. A full understanding of the principles and mechanisms that underlie intestinal microbial colonization and diversity and host–microbiota relationships will be pivotal for the development of therapeutic approaches that manipulate the intestinal microbiota to maintain human health. [Registration number: ISRCTN28090297]
Cite this as: O. Storrø, T. Øien, Ø. Langsrud, K. Rudi, C. Dotterud and R. Johnsen, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 1545–1554.
Nitric oxide and malondialdehyde levels in plasma and tissue of psoriasis patients
Authors: Şikar Aktürk A. , Özdoğan H.K. , Bayramgürler D. , Çekmen M.B. , Bilen N. , Kıran R. 
Published: July 2011

AbstractBackground  The pathogenesis of psoriasis has not been known exactly yet. Recently, it has been suggested that increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) may play a part in the pathogenesis of various skin diseases, including psoriasis.Objectives  In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of ROS in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.Methods  A convenience sample of 23 patients with psoriasis and 23 healthy subjects consented to participate in the study. Plasma NO and MDA levels were measured in all participants. Psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) and tissue levels of MDA on lesional and non‐lesional skin regions of psoriasis patients were measured. In addition, the correlation between age, gender with plasma NO, plasma MDA and tissue MDA was assessed.Results  Plasma levels of NO and MDA in psoriasis patients (135.8 μmol/L, 4.33 μmol/L, respectively) were statistically significantly higher than those in controls (33.6 μmol/L, 2.03 μmol/L, respectively). Tissue levels of MDA in lesional tissues (49.18 nmol/gr) were significantly higher than those in non‐lesional tissues (28.41 nmol/gr). A significant correlation was not found between the PASI and levels of NO and MDA. In addition, a significant negative correlation was found between the plasma NO levels and age.Conclusion  NO and MDA levels are elevated in psoriasis patients, which may indicate that oxidative stress plays an important role in the aetiopathogenesis of psoriasis.
Hypermethylation of RUNX3 but not WIF1 gene and its association with stage and nodal status of tongue cancers
Authors: Supic G , Kozomara R , Jovic N , Zeljic K , Magic Z 
Published: July 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 794–800Objectives:  Recent studies indicate various molecular abnormalities in oral squamous cell carcinomas (OSCC), including DNA methylation of tumor‐associated genes. Although promoter hypermethylation of Wnt pathway antagonists RUNX3 (Runt‐related transcription factor 3) and Wnt inhibitory factor 1 (WIF1) has been identified as a common event in a number of carcinomas, methylation status and the role of RUNX3 as a possible tumor suppressor in oral and head and neck cancer are yet controversial. The aim of our study is to determine the occurrence of RUNX3 and WIF1 genes hypermethylation and correlation with tumor and host‐related factors and prognosis in tongue carcinomas.Material and Methods:  In 76 patients with tongue carcinoma, RUNX3 and WIF1 genes promoter hypermethylation analysis was assessed by nested methylation‐specific PCR method.Results:  Hypermethylation of WIF1 and RUNX3 genes promoters was observed in 35% and 25% of carcinomas, respectively. RUNX3 gene promoter hypermethylation was significantly associated with lymph node involvement (P = 0.013) and tumor stage (P = 0.006), but not with the overall survival. Occurrence of RUNX3 and WIF1 genes comethylation was associated with nodal status (P = 0.058) and tumor stage (P = 0.055).Conclusions:  Our findings indicate that RUNX3 and WIF1 are frequently aberrantly methylated and that RUNX3 promoter methylation could be considered as a potential prognostic marker in tongue carcinoma.
Association between cancer and contact allergy: a linkage study
Authors: Engkilde Kaare , Thyssen Jacob P , Menné Torkil , Johansen Jeanne D 
Published: July 2011

BackgroundContact allergy is a prevalent disorder. It is estimated that about 20% of the general population are allergic to one or more of the chemicals that constitute the European baseline patch test panel. While many studies have investigated associations between type I allergic disorders and cancer, few have looked into the association between cancer and contact allergy, a type IV allergy. By linking two clinical databases, the authors investigate the possible association between contact allergy and cancer.MethodsRecord linkage of two different registers was performed: (1) a tertiary hospital register of dermatitis patients patch tested for contact allergy and (2) a nationwide cancer register (the Danish Cancer Register). After linking the two registers, only cancer subtypes with 40 or more patients registered were included in the analysis. The final associations were evaluated by logistic regression analysis.ResultsAn inverse association between contact allergy and non-melanoma skin- and breast cancer, respectively, was identified in both sexes, and an inverse trend for brain cancer was found in women with contact allergy. Additionally, a positive association between contact allergy and bladder cancer was found.ConclusionThe inverse associations support the immunosurveillance hypothesis (ie, individuals with an allergy are less likely to get cancer due to a triggered immune system), while the positive association with bladder cancer could be due to accumulations of chemical metabolites in the bladder. The authors' findings add to the limited knowledge about contact allergy and the risk of cancer.
P-008 Simulated diagnostic cerebral angiography in neurosurgical training: a pilot program
Authors: Spiotta A , Rasmussen P , Masaryk T , Benzel E , Schlenk R 
Published: July 2011

IntroductionSurgical simulation provides a zero-risk setting in which skills can be obtained through repetition. Advanced, technically accurate simulation systems that provide sensory feedback can further aid the trainee in developing and refining the mechanical skills required for the procedure. We studied the feasibility and utility of simulated diagnostic cerebral angiography among neurosurgical residents and fellows using an endovascular biplane angiography simulator.MethodsTen neurosurgical residents and four neurointerventional fellows were recruited into a standardized training protocol consisting of a didactic, demonstration and hands-on learning environment. The Simbionix simulator (Simbionix USA Corp, Cleveland, Ohio, USA), was employed. Participants were instructed to catheterize (in order) the right internal carotid artery, left internal carotid artery and left vertebral artery. The task was repeated five times by the participants. Total procedure and fluoroscopy times were recorded in minutes and seconds. Volume of contrast administered and complications were also recorded. Violations of safe technique were recorded.ResultsAll participants demonstrated improvement over the five trials. There were no dissections, however residents performed actions that were perceived as potentially dangerous. Fellows performed the procedure with superior technique. Residents performed the task with an initial total procedure and fluoroscopy time of 6.6±4.3 min and 4.9±3.7 min, respectively and improved on the fifth trial (3.4±1.3 min; p=0.03 and 2.3±0.78 min; p=0.004). Residents approximated the efficiency of fellows for the third and fourth trial.ConclusionsWe have demonstrated that incorporating an endovascular simulator is feasible for training purposes in a neurosurgical residency program and provided the first evidence that it could facilitate the transfer of skills obtained in real world angiography.Abstract P-008 Figure 1
O-009 Mechanical balloon thromboembolectomy for the treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT): a restropsective analysis of safety and efficacy in 65 consecutive patients
Authors: Frei D , Huddle D , Bellon R , Dooley G 
Published: July 2011

ObjectiveConventional treatment of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVT) has been systemic heparinization. A variety of endovascular treatment paradigms have been described for the treatment of symptomatic CVST that has failed conventional therapy. We retrospectively evaluated the efficacy and safety of thromboembolectomy using the Fogarty balloon catheter (Edwards Lifesciences, Irvine, California, USA) for rapid revascularization of the major dural sinuses in consecutive patients over a 6-year period.Materials and MethodsA retrospective review of our Neurointerventional database over a 6-year period from January 2005 to January 2011 identified 65 consecutive patients who had undergone Fogarty balloon thromboembolectomy for the treatment of CVT. These patients with documented CVT were deemed a “failure” of conventional management (neurologic decline, hemorrhage or infarction, clot progression or sinus re-occlusion). All procedures were performed with ultrasound guided venous access of the internal jugular vein and placement of a vascular sheath. Low dose thrombolytic (1–10 mg of Tenecteplase (Genentech, South San Francisco, California, USA)) was utilized to lace the clot through a four French multisidehole infusion catheter in all but two patients (97%). Balloon thromboembolectomy was performed using either a three French or four French Fogarty balloon catheter until satisfactory revascularization was achieved. All patients were maintained on intravenous heparin during the procedure and continued on anticoagulation afterward. Procedural images, pre- and post- procedure neuroimaging and charts were reviewed by two experienced Neurointerventional surgeons. Revascularization was recorded as unsuccessful, partial or complete. Partial revascularization showed contrast wash out in the appropriate dural sinus, but non-occlusive residual clot remained present. Procedural complications were recorded.ResultsComplete revascularization was achieved in 52 of 65 patients (80%). Partial revascularization was achieved in 13 of 65 patients (20%). There was one procedural complication (1.5%) (wire perforation with subdural hematoma), which resolved without neurosurgical intervention or neurological decline. The mean patient age was 36 years. 60% of patients were female. 10 patients required additional thromboembolectomy for sinus re-occlusion.ConclusionFogarty balloon thromboembolectomy can be a safe and effective treatment for cerebral venous sinus thrombosis in patients who have failed conventional management.
The role of adiponectin (ADIPOQ) gene polymorphisms in the susceptibility and prognosis of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Cui Enhai , Deng Anmei , Wang Xiang , Wang Bin , Mao Wei , Feng Xueren , Hua Feng 
Published: July 2011

To study the role of the adiponectin (ADIPOQ) gene single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in the susceptibility and prognosis for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we recruited 344 patients with NSCLC, of which 141 had undergone surgical resection and post-surgery follow up. For controls, there were 264 healthy volunteers for the control group, matched in age and sex with the NSCLC patients. Genotyping of SNPs in the ADIPOQ gene, namely, rs266729 (11365C>G); rs822395 (4034A>C); rs822396 (3964A>G); rs2241766 (+45T>G) were performed. Of all SNPs in the ADIPOQ gene, only the TT genotype and T allele frequency of the rs2241766 were more prevalent in NSCLC subjects than in controls. The TT genotype of rs2241766 was significantly associated with susceptibility to NSCLC before and after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index, and smoking status. In the survival analyses of subjects receiving surgical resection, only the SNPs of rs2241766 were significantly related to overall survival of NSCLC. Our results suggest that the SNP rs2241766 of the ADIPOQ gene may determine both susceptibility to NSCLC, and the prognosis for those who underwent surgical treatment.
The Role of Erythropoietin and Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents in Tumor Progression
Authors: Hedley Benjamin D. , Allan Alison L. , Xenocostas Anargyros 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
Over the past few decades, understanding of the physiologic function of erythropoietin (EPO) has evolved significantly. EPO binds to erythropoietin receptors (EPOR), initiating signaling that stimulates growth, inhibits apoptosis, and induces the differentiation of erythroid progenitors to increase red blood cell mass. EPO has additionally been shown to exert tissue-protective effects on multiple tissues, suggesting a pleiotropic mechanism of action. Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESA) are used clinically for treating cancer-related anemia [chemotherapy-induced anemia (CIA)]. Recent clinical trials have reported increased adverse events and/or reduced survival in ESA-treated cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, potentially related to EPO-induced cancer progression. Signaling pathways downstream of EPO/EPOR have been shown to influence numerous cellular functions in both normal and tumor cells, including proliferation, apoptosis, and drug resistance. Some studies have reported effects on proliferation, reduced chemotherapy efficacy, reduction of apoptosis, and resistance to selective therapies on cancer cell lines, whereas others have shown null effects. In addition, newer targeted cancer therapies that are directed toward specific signaling pathways may be antagonized by ESAs. This molecular interplay between anticancer agents and potential survival signals triggered by ESAs may have been underestimated and may contribute toward decreased survival seen in certain trials. As more targeted anticancer therapies become available, these types of interactions may mitigate therapeutic efficacy by allowing tumor cells to acquire drug resistance. Therefore, a more complete understanding of the complex pathways involved will allow for the rational use of ESAs for the safe treatment of CIA in oncology patients. Clin Cancer Res; 17(20); 6373–80. ©2011 AACR.
Human Monoclonal Antibody Fragments Binding to Insulin-like Growth Factors I and II with Picomolar Affinity
Authors: Zhao Qi , Feng Yang , Zhu Zhongyu , Dimitrov Dimiter S. 
Published: July 2011

Abstract
The type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R) and its ligands (IGF-I and IGF-II) have been implicated in a variety of physiologic processes and in diseases such as cancer. In addition to IGF1R, IGF-II also activates the insulin receptor (IR) isoform A, and therefore, antibodies against IGF-II can inhibit cell proliferation mediated by the signaling through both IGF1R and IR triggered by IGF-II. We identified a new human monoclonal antibody (mAb), m708.2, which is bound to IGF-I and IGF-II but not to insulin. m708.2 potently inhibited signal transduction mediated by the interaction of IGF-I or IGF-II with the IGF1R and IGF-II with the IR. It also inhibited the growth of the breast cancer cell line MCF-7. An affinity-matured derivative of m708.2, m708.5, bound to IGF-I with equilibrium dissociation constant, KD = 200 pmol/L and to IGF-II with KD = 60 pmol/L. m708.5 inhibited signal transduction mediated by IGF-I and IGF-II and cancer cell growth more potently than m708.2. These results suggest that m708.5 could have potential as a candidate therapeutic for cancers driven by the IGF-I and IGF-II interactions with IGF1R and IR. Mol Cancer Ther; 10(9); 1677–85. ©2011 AACR.
Diabetic Neuropathy Status and the Concerns in Underserved Rural Communities: Challenges and Opportunities for Diabetes Educators
Authors: Wang Wen , Balamurugan Appathurai , Biddle Joyce , Rollins Kimberly M. 
Published: July 2011

Purpose The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and to identify at risk populations in medically underserved rural communities. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 816 type 2 diabetic patients from 5 rural Arkansas counties who attended a diabetes education program from 2005 to 2009. The data was collected through a survey questionnaire and from medical records. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted. Results Of the 816 patients studied, 9.6% had a DPN diagnosis, and 43% reported peripheral neuropathy symptoms (PNS). Among the patients with PNS, 79% had not been diagnosed with DPN. Multivariate analyses found that being female, being white, having less than a college education, having a longer duration of diabetes, having a history of smoking, having a professional foot examination, and performing self foot examinations are associated with a higher risk for having DPN or PNS. Conclusion The study found that the prevalence of patients with PNS was high, and that DPN was alarmingly underdiagnosed in these underserved rural communities. The high prevalence of PNS and underdiagnosis of DPN could influence the development of severe foot complications like diabetic foot ulcer, and even possibly increase the risk of lower extremity amputation in these underserved communities. The at risk population identified by this study would be a resource to help diabetes educators develop targeted education and intervention programs in underserved rural communities.
In vitro biocompatibility of novel biphasic calcium phosphate-mullite composites
Authors: Nath Shekhar , Kalmodia Sushma , Basu Bikramjit 
Published: July 2011

In designing new calcium phosphate (CaP)-based composites, the improvement in physical properties (strength, toughness) without compromising the biocompatibility aspect is essential. In a recent study, it has been demonstrated that significant improvement in compressive strength as well as modest enhancement in toughness is achievable in biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP)-based composites with mullite addition (up to 30 wt%). Herein, we report the results of the in vitro cell adhesion, cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and osteocalcin (OC) production for a series of BCP-mullite (up to 30 wt%) composites. Mouse fibroblast (L929) cell lines were used to examine in vitro cell adhesion and cell proliferation; while osteoblast-like (osteosarcoma, MG63) cells were used for in vitro osteoblastic function study by ALP and OC expression. Much emphasis has been provided to discuss the cell viability and proliferation as well as osteoblastic differentiation marker on the investigated biocomposites in relation to the characteristics of the phase assemblage. On the basis of various observations using multiple biochemical assays, it has been suggested that BCP-mullite composites would be a candidate material for orthopedic applications.
Effective age models for imperfect maintenance
Authors: Labeau P-E , Segovia M-C 
Published: July 2011

A large number of maintenance models are available in the literature. Most of these usually assume that the effect of maintenance interventions is as good as new. This amounts to assuming the maintenance action undergone by a system, be it preventive or corrective, is equivalent to its replacement. This hypothesis is, of course, questionable in many cases. Maintenance without replacement can lead to a significant level of rejuvenation of a system, either preventively or after repair. However, the restoration of the performances of the system is most of the time incomplete. The effect of such an imperfect maintenance has been described in different ways, which can be split in two main categories: reduction of the value of a degradation variable embodying the ‘health’ of the system, or modification of the lifetime distribution of the system. This paper focuses on the latter approach, and is structured in two parts. First, it reviews different approaches of imperfect maintenance, modelling the gain in residual lifetime either by a decrease of the failure rate value or by a reduction of the system effective age. Second, an innovative model based on the concepts of elasticity and inescapability of aging is described, in order to introduce more intuitive observations on the results of repeated maintenance actions on a system. This new approach is illustrated using a numerical example.
Effects of genetic variations in the Adiponectin pathway genes on the risk of colorectal cancer in the Chinese population
Authors: He Bangshun , Pan Yuqin , Zhang Ying , Bao Qian , Chen Liping , Nie Zhenlin , Gu Ling , Xu Yeqiong , Wang Shukui 
Published: July 2011

AbstractBackgroundDecreased expression of adiponectin (ADIPOQ) is associated with an increased risk for developing colorectal cancer (CRC) in humans. This study was designed to determine whether polymorphisms present in theADIPOQand its type 1 receptor (ADIPOR1) could affect the risk of CRC.MethodsWe measured five polymorphisms in theADIPOQand two polymorphisms inADIPOR1, and analyzed their associations with CRC risk in 420 CRC patients and 555 age- and gender-matched healthy individuals.ResultsMultivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that the CRC risks (adjusted odds ratio and 95% confidence interval) associated with theADIPOR1genotypes were 0.53 (95% CI, 0.35-0.81) for rs12733285C/T, 0.59 (95% CI, 0.45-0.78) for rs1342387A/G, and 0.59 (95% CI, 0.39-0.89) for rs1342387A/A, respectively. Furthermore, the risks were more significant in carriers of the allele A of rs1342387A/G (adjusted OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.46-0.77) than noncarriers (G/G). In a further subgroup analysis, we observed that rs266729G/C was associated with an increased risk for colon cancer (adjusted OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.05-2.14) but not for rectal cancer (adjusted OR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.63-1.22), and that carriers of the G allele had an increased risk for developing colon cancer (adjusted OR, 1.45; 95% CI, 1.03-2.05).ConclusionsWe conclude that the rs12733285C/T genotype and the carriage of the A allele of rs1342387 (A/G or A/A) inADIPOR1are the protective factors for CRC, while that rs266729G/C and G allele ofADIPOQare the risk factors for colon cancer after excluding rectal cancer cases.