bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Differential Transcription Factor Use by the KIR2DL4 Promoter under Constitutive and IL-2/15–Treated Conditions
Authors: Presnell Steven R. , Zhang Lei , Chlebowy Corrin N. , Al-Attar Ahmad , Lutz Charles T. 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
KIR2DL4 is unique among human KIR genes in expression, cellular localization, structure, and function, yet the transcription factors required for its expression have not been identified. Using mutagenesis, EMSA, and cotransfection assays, we identified two redundant Runx binding sites in the 2DL4 promoter as essential for constitutive 2DL4 transcription, with contributions by a cyclic AMP response element (CRE) and initiator elements. IL-2– and IL-15–stimulated human NK cell lines increased 2DL4 promoter activity, which required functional Runx, CRE, and Ets sites. Chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments show that Runx3 and Ets1 bind the 2DL4 promoter in situ. 2DL4 promoter activity had similar transcription factor requirements in T cells. Runx, CRE, and Ets binding motifs are present in 2DL4 promoters from across primate species, but other postulated transcription factor binding sites are not preserved. Differences between 2DL4 and clonally restricted KIR promoters suggest a model that explains the unique 2DL4 expression pattern in human NK cells.
Herpes Simplex Virus Antigens Directly Activate NK Cells via TLR2, Thus Facilitating Their Presentation to CD4 T Lymphocytes
Authors: Kim Min , Osborne Naomi R. , Zeng Weiguang , Donaghy Heather , McKinnon Kay , Jackson David C. , Cunningham Anthony L. 
Published: March 2012

AbstractNK cells infiltrate human herpetic lesions, but their role has been underexplored. HSV can stimulate innate immune responses via surface TLR2, which is expressed on monocyte-derived dendritic cells (DCs) and NK cells. In this study, UV-inactivated HSV1/2 and immunodominant HSV2 glycoprotein D peptides conjugated to the TLR2 agonist dipalmitoyl-S-glyceryl cysteine stimulated CD4 T lymphocyte IFN-γ responses within PBMCs or in coculture with monocyte-derived DCs. NK cells contributed markedly to the PBMC responses. Furthermore, NK cells alone were activated directly by both Ags, also upregulating HLA-DR and HLA-DQ and then they activated autologous CD4 T lymphocytes. Using Transwells, Ag-stimulated NK cells and CD4 T lymphocytes were shown to interact through both cell-to-cell contact and cytokines, differing in relative importance in different donors. A distinct immunological synapse between Ag-stimulated NK cells and CD4 T lymphocytes was observed, indicating the significance of their cell-to-cell contact. A large proportion (57%) of NK cells was also in contact with CD4 T lymphocytes in the dermal infiltrate of human recurrent herpetic lesions. Thus, NK cells stimulated by TLR2-activating HSV Ags can present Ag alone or augment the role of DCs in vitro and perhaps in herpetic lesions or draining lymph nodes. In addition to DCs, NK cells should be considered as targets for adjuvants during HSV vaccine development.
Signal Integration by Akt Regulates CD8 T Cell Effector and Memory Differentiation
Authors: Kim Eui Ho , Sullivan Jeremy A. , Plisch Erin H. , Tejera Melba Marie , Jatzek Anna , Choi Kwan Yong , Suresh M. 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
During a T cell response, the effector CTL pool contains two cellular subsets: short-lived effector cells (SLECs), a majority of which are destined for apoptosis, and the memory precursor effector cells, which differentiate into memory cells. Understanding the mechanisms that govern the differentiation of memory CD8 T cells is of fundamental importance in the development of effective CD8 T cell-based vaccines. The strength and nature of TCR signaling, along with signals delivered by cytokines like IL-2 and IL-12, influence differentiation of SLECs and memory precursor effector cells. A central question is, how are signals emanating from multiple receptors integrated and interpreted to define the fate of effector CTLs? Using genetic and pharmacological tools, we have identified Akt as a signal integrator that links distinct facets of CTL differentiation to the specific signaling pathways of FOXO, mTOR, and Wnt/β-catenin. Sustained Akt activation triggered by convergent extracellular signals evokes a transcription program that enhances effector functions, drives differentiation of terminal effectors, and diminishes the CTLs’ potential to survive and differentiate into memory cells. Whereas sustained Akt activation severely impaired CD8 T cell memory and protective immunity, in vivo inhibition of Akt rescued SLECs from deletion and increased the number of memory CD8 T cells. Thus, the cumulative strength of convergent signals from signaling molecules such as TCR, costimulatory molecules, and cytokine receptors governs the magnitude of Akt activation, which in turn controls the generation of long-lived memory cells. These findings suggest that therapeutic modulation of Akt might be a strategy to augment vaccine-induced immunity.
Human Vγ9Vδ2 T Cells Specifically Recognize and Kill Acute Myeloid Leukemic Blasts
Authors: Gertner-Dardenne Julie , Castellano Remy , Mamessier Emilie , Garbit Slaveia , Kochbati Eloïse , Etienne Anne , Charbonnier Aude , Collette Yves , Vey Norbert , Olive Daniel 
Published: March 2012

AbstractVγ9Vδ2 T cells are attractive candidates for antileukemic activity. The analysis of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells in newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients revealed that their absolute cell numbers were normal in the blood as well as in the bone marrow but showed a striking imbalance in the differentiation subsets, with preponderance of the effector memory population. This unusual phenotype was restored after removal of leukemic cells in patients, which reached complete remission after chemotherapy, suggesting that leukemic cells might be involved in the alteration of γδ T cell development in AML. Accordingly, coculture between AML cells and Vγ9Vδ2 T cells induced selection of effector cells. In accordance with their effector memory status, in vitro proliferation of Vγ9Vδ2 T cells was reduced compared with normal controls. Nevertheless, Vγ9Vδ2 T cells efficiently killed autologous AML blasts via the perforin/granzyme pathway. The ligands for DNAM-1 were expressed by AML cells. We showed that killing of AML blasts was TCR and DNAM-1 dependent. Using a xenotransplantation murine model, we showed that Vγ9Vδ2 T cells homed to the bone marrow in close proximity of engrafted leukemic cells and enhanced survival. These data demonstrate that Vγ9Vδ2 T cells are endowed with the ability to interact with and eradicate AML blasts both in vitro and in a mouse model. Collectively, our data revealed that Vγ9Vδ2 T cells have a potent antileukemic activity provided that optimal activation is achieved, such as with synthetic TCR agonists. This study enhances the interest of these cells for therapeutic purposes such as AML treatment.
Uptake of Particulate Antigens in a Nonmammalian Lung: Phenotypic and Functional Characterization of Avian Respiratory Phagocytes Using Bacterial or Viral Antigens
Authors: de Geus Eveline D. , Jansen Christine A. , Vervelde Lonneke 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Major distinctive features of avian lungs are the absence of draining lymph nodes and alveoli and alveolar macrophages (MPhs). However, a large network of MPhs and dendritic cells (DCs) is present in the mucosa of the larger airways and in the linings of the parabronchi. For the modulation of respiratory tract immune responses, for example, by vaccination, a better understanding of Ag uptake in the chicken respiratory tract is needed. In this study, we provide detailed characterization of APCs in chicken lungs, including their functional in vivo activities as measured by the uptake of fluorescently labeled 1-μm beads that are coated with either LPS or inactivated avian influenza A virus (IAV) mimicking the uptake of bacterial or viral Ag. We identified different subsets of MPhs and DCs in chicken lungs, based on the expression of CD11, activation markers, and DEC205. In vivo uptake of LPS- and IAV-beads resulted in an increased percentage MHC class II+ (MHC II+) cells and in the upregulation of CD40. The uptake of LPS-beads resulted in the upregulation of CD80 and MHC II on the cell surface, suggesting either uptake of LPS- and IAV-beads by different subsets of phagocytic cells or LPS-mediated differential activation. Differences in phagosomal acidification indicated that in chicken lungs the MHC II+ and CD80+ bead+ cell population includes DCs and that a large proportion of beads was taken up by MPhs. LPS-bead+ cells were present in BALT, suggesting local induction of immune responses. Collectively, we characterized the uptake of Ags by phagocytes in the respiratory tract of chickens.
Establishing a protocol for immunocytochemical staining and chromogenicin situhybridization of Giemsa and Diff-Quick prestained cytological smears
Authors: Beraki Elsa , Olsen Thale Kristin , Sauer Torill 
Published: March 2012

Background:Protocols for immunocytochemical staining (ICC) andin situhybridization (ISH) of air-dried Diff-Quick or May-Grünwald Giemsa (MGG)-stained smears have been difficult to establish. An increasing need to be able to use prestained slides for ICC and ISH in specific cases led to this study, aiming at finding a robust protocol for both methods.Materials and Methods:The material consisted of MGG- and Diff-Quick-stained smears. After diagnosis, one to two diagnostic smears were stored in the department. Any additional smear(s) containing diagnostic material were used for this study. The majority were fine needle aspirates (FNAC) from the breast, comprising materials from fibroadenomas, fibrocystic disease, and carcinomas. A few were metastatic lesions (carcinomas and malignant melanomas). There were 64 prestained smears. Ten smears were Diff-Quick stained, and 54 were MGG stained. The antibodies used for testing ICC were Ki-67, ER, and PgR, CK MNF116 (pancytokeratin) and E-cadherin. HER-2 Dual SISH was used to test ISH. Citrate, TRS, and TE buffers at pH6 and pH9 were tested, as well as, different heating times, microwave powers and antibody concentrations. The ICC was done on the Dako Autostainer (Dako®, Glostrup, Denmark), and HER-2 Dual SISH was done on the Ventana XT-machine (Ventana / Roche®, Strasbourg, France).Results:Optimal results were obtained with the TE buffer at pH 9, for both ICC and ISH. Antibody concentrations generally had to be higher than in the immunohistochemistry (IHC). The optimal microwave heat treatment included an initial high power boiling followed by low power boiling. No post fixation was necessary for ICC, whereas, 20 minutes post fixation in formalin (4%) was necessary for ISH.Conclusions:Microwave heat treatment, with initial boiling at high power followed by boiling at low power and TE buffer at pH 9 were the key steps in the procedure. Antibody concentrations has to be adapted for each ICC marker. Post fixation in formalin is necessary for ISH.
Dual color multiplex TTF-1 + Napsin A and p63 + CK5 immunostaining for subcategorizing of poorly differentiated pulmonary non-small carcinomas into adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in fine needle aspiration specimens
Authors: Sethi Seema , Geng Lili , Shidham Vinod B , Archuletta Pamela , Bandyophadhyay Sudeshna , Feng Jining , Madan Shashi , Shi Dongping , Tranchida Paul , Giorgadze Tamar 
Published: March 2012

Background:The distinction of lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) from squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has important therapeutic implications. Napsin A is a recently developed marker, which has shown high specificity for lung tissue in the surgical pathology specimens. In this study, we have evaluated whether the use of a panel of novel multiplex cocktails of TTF-1 + Napsin A and p63 + CK5 for dual color immunostaining will improve the diagnostic accuracy of lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in fine needle aspiration (FNA) specimens, usually with relatively scant microfragments of diagnostic material.Materials and Methods:Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, adequately cellular FNA cell blocks with a confirmed diagnosis of either ADC (n = 22), SCC (n = 20) or poorly differentiated carcinoma (PDC; n = 7), from a total of 49 consecutive cases, were studied. All these cases had subsequently confirmed diagnosis in biopsies or resection specimens. The sections were immunostained with two color methods of TTF-1 + Napsin A and p63 + CK5 multiplex cocktails. The presence of one or more unequivocal individual tumor cells with convincing brown nuclear TTF-1 and red cytoplasmic Napsin A staining, and cells with brown nuclear p63 and membranous / cytoplasmic CK5 staining were interpreted as ‘positive’.Results:All 20 FNA cell blocks from SCC cases were positive for dual stain p63 + CK5 and negative for dual stain TTF-1 + Napsin A. The sensitivity and specificity of the dual immunoexpressions of p63 + CK5 for SCC of lung FNAs were both 100%. All 22 ADC cases were positive with dual stain of TTF-1 + Napsin A and negative for dual stain of p63 + CK5. On follow-up of the surgical pathology specimens, 22 cases were confirmed as ADC. The sensitivity of the dual immunoexpression of TTF-1 + Napsin A for ADC of lung FNAs was 100% and the specificity was also 100%. Of the seven PDC cases, five cases that were positive for dual stain p63 + CK5 and negative for dual stain TTF-1 + Napsin A could be categorized as SCC. Two of the seven (2 / 7) PDC cases were positive for dual stain TTF-1 + Napsin A and negative for dual stain p63 + CK5, consistent with ADC.Conclusions:Simultaneous coordinate or individual immunostaining for Napsin A / TTF-1 in ADC and p63 / CK5 in SCC demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity. The panel with multiplex Napsin A / TTF-1 and p63 / CK5 dual color immunostains could specifically subcategorize PDC into ADC and SCC in lung FNA specimens. Multiplex dual color Napsin A / TTF-1 and p63 / CK5 immunostaining is especially recommended for evaluation of FNA specimens with relatively scant cellularity.
Surgery of vestibular schwannomas
Authors: Samii Amir , Gerganov Venelin , Samii Madjid 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Vestibular schwannomas (VS) are the most common tumors of the cerebellopontine angle (CPA). Their surgical management has reached high standards in the last decade. Treatment options for VS are microsurgical removal or Radiosurgery. The following three basic operative approaches are currently utilized: Retrosigmoid approach (RSA), translabyrinthine and middle fossa approach. The following article elaborates the operative technique by the senior author based on his vast experience of VS surgery formed over the last three decades; during which period he has operated more than 3500 of such patients
Scalp flora in Indian patients undergoing craniotomy for brain tumors – Implications for pre-surgical site preparation and surgical site infection
Authors: Sumukhi Umesh , Shetty Prakash , Biswas Sanjay , Kelkar Rohini , Moiyadi Aliasgar 
Published: March 2012

AbstractCausation of surgical site infection (SSI) following craniotomy is multifactorial. Most preventive strategies (including site preparation and antibiotic prophylaxis) revolve around reducing preoperative contamination of the local site. There is little evidence, however, linking site contamination with postoperative infections. This is important given the preference for performing non-shaved cranial surgery. We undertook a prospective study to document the scalp flora in neurosurgical patients in an Indian setting and to assess possible association with SSI.A prospective study recruited 45 patients undergoing non-shaved clean craniotomies for various brain tumors. Standard perioperative procedures and antibiotic policy were employed. Prior to and immediately following the pre-surgical scrubbing, we collected swabs and evaluated their growth qualitatively. SSI was documented adhering to CDC guidelines. The association of swab-positivity with various parameters (including SSI) was evaluated.Pre-scrub positivity was seen in 18 of 44 patients, three of them developed subsequent SSI. Most were known skin contaminants. Five patients had swab positivity after scrubbing, though none of these developed any SSI. Four of these five had pre-scrub positivity. In three the same organisms persisted (two being Staphylococcus aureus), and one had different growth post-scrub, whereas one patient developed new growth (contaminant mycelial fungus) in the post-scrub swab. We did not find any association between swab positivity and SSI. Swab positivity was also not related to hair-length or hygiene.Scalp flora in Indian patients is similar to that described. Pre-surgical preparation does not always eliminate this contamination (especially staphylococcus). However, this does not necessarily translate into increased SSI. Moreover, the results also provide objective evidence to support the performance of non-shaved cranial surgery without an undue risk of SSI.
Cost and usage patterns of antibiotics in a tertiary care neurosurgical unit
Authors: Suri Ashish , Chandra Sarat , Kale Shashank , Kapil Arti , Sharma Bhawani , Mahapatra Ashok , Singh Sharma Manish 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
The routine use of prophylactic antibiotics in neurosurgery has been shown to significantly reduce surgical site infection rates. The documentation of non-surgical site, nosocomial infections in neurosurgical patients remains limited, despite this being a stimulus for prolific antibiotic usage. The actual quantum of antibiotic use in neurosurgery and its role in infection control remain both undocumented and controversial. The authors address this issue with a cost-effectiveness study using historical controls.
Bacteriologically positive body fluid samples were used to quantify infection rates in the year 2006 and compared with those in the year 1997. Itemized drug lists obtained from dedicated neurosurgical intensive care units and wards were used to quantify antibiotic usage and calculate their costs. Results were compared using both historical and internal controls. The monetary conversion factor used was INR 40=US$1.
A total of 3114 consecutive elective and emergency neurosurgical procedures were performed during the study period. 329 patients (10.6%) were recorded to have bacteriologically positive body fluid samples, and 100,250 units of antibiotics were consumed costing Rs. 14,378,227.5 ($359,455.7). On an average, an operated patient received 32.2 units of antibiotics valued at Rs. 4,617 ($115.4). The crude infection rates were recorded to have reduced significantly in comparison to 1997, but did not differ between mirror intra-departmental units with significantly different antibiotic usage.
Antibiotics accounted for 31% of the per capita cost of consumables for performing a craniotomy in the year 2006. This estimate should be factored into projecting future package costs.
Brainstem tumors: Current management and future directions
Authors: Recinos Pablo , Rahmathulla Gazanfar , Jallo George , Recinos Violette 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Tumors arising in the brainstem comprise 10–20% of all pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors and account for a small percentage in adults. The prognosis for these tumors was considered uniformly poor prior to the era of modern neuroimaging and the location was fraught with disaster being considered a ‘no man’s land’ for neurosurgeons. Following the introduction of advanced imaging modalities and neurophysiological monitoring, striking progress has occurred in the management of these lesions. Brainstem tumors are presently classified based on their anatomic location, focality, and histopathology. This article reviews the current classification of brainstem tumors, current management options, and future directions in the treatment for these rare tumors.
Cranio-vertebral junction tuberculosis
Authors:   Rajkumar
Published: March 2012

Abstract
There are variety of diseases which affect the region of craniovertebral junction, including congenital, malignant lesions, traumatic and infective/inflammatory lesions. CVJ tuberculosis is an extremely rare condition, accounting for 0.3 to 1% of all cases of spinal TB. Few case series have been reported in the literature about this rare condition, but there appears to be lack of consensus even on basic issues like whether to undertake surgical intervention or prefer a conservative approach in cases of CVJ TB. These cases can present with a myriad of symptoms and one needs to have a high index of suspicion for early diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment is very important for a favorable outcome. In this article, we have tried to review the available literature and also share our experience about this condition so as to have a better understanding of the disease process and have a more rational treatment protocol.
What our colleagues says.... Basic anesthetic considerations in neurosurgery
Authors: Chaturvedi Arvind ,   Indu
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Rapid development in neurosurgical practice poses new challenges for anaesthesiologists requiring search for newer and safer anaesthetic agents and modification in basic anaesthetic techniques. The present article describes the basic neuroanaesthetic considerations and some of the newer developments in anaesthetic drugs and techniques which are important during neurosurgical practice.
Delayed presentation of a thorn prick as an intramedullary abscess
Authors: Gandhi Ashok , Sharma Achal , Shekawath Jitender , Kaushal Ronyl , Mittal Radhey 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Penetrating injury to the spine is the third most common cause of spinal injury. Injuries due to bullet, glass, nails and pencil injuries are well documented in literature. We report a rare case of delayed onset intramedullary abscess following thorn prick and have reviewed the literature for similar forms of injuries.
Giant intracranial hydatid cyst: A report of two cases and literature review
Authors: Kumar Anil , Sahay C.B. , Minj T.J. , Mallik Jeevesh 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Hydatid disease is a zoonosis caused by Taenia echinococcus. The three main varieties Echinococcus granulosus, E. multilocularis and E. vogeli are primarily found in dogs and are transmitted to man by fecal–oral route. Commonly affected organs are liver, lungs and spleen. Brain is involved only in 2-5% cases. The authors herein present two cases of giant intracranial hydatid cysts managed at department of neurosurgery, Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi, India.
Osteoblastoma of the ethmoid
Authors: Venkatesh M.D. , Deb Prabal , Bhatoe Harjinder 
Published: March 2012

Abstract
Osteoblastoma is a rare, benign bony tumor of skull base. We report one such case. Clinical record. We reviewed the record of a 21-year-old-male, who presented with nasal obstruction and proptosis. The tumor had formed a large mass that displaced the frontal lobes, the orbits and projected into the nasal cavity. Imaging revealed a calcified nodular expansile lesion. The tumor could be excised near-total by bifrontal craniotomy combined with endonasal approach. Histopathology was confirmatory of osteoblastoma. The patient was discharged on the seventh postoperative day and is now on follow-up. Osteoblastoma is a rare tumor of the frontoethmoid region. Surgery requires meticulous planning and team approach.