bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Norepinephrine Promotes the β1-Integrin–Mediated Adhesion of MDA-MB-231 Cells to Vascular Endothelium by the Induction of a GROα Release
Authors: Strell Carina , Niggemann Bernd , Voss Melanie J. , Powe Desmond G. , Zänker Kurt S. , Entschladen Frank 
Published: December 2011

AbstractThe migratory activity of tumor cells and their ability to extravasate from the blood stream through the vascular endothelium are important steps within the metastasis cascade. We have shown previously that norepinephrine is a potent inducer of the migration of MDA-MB-468 human breast carcinoma cells and therefore investigated herein, whether the interaction of these cells as well as MDA-MB-231 and MDA-MB-435S human breast carcinoma cells with the vascular endothelium is affected by this neurotransmitter as well. By means of a flow-through assay under physiologic flow conditions, we show that norepinephrine induces an increase of the adhesion of the MDA-MB-231 cells, but not of MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-435S cells to human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells (HMVEC). The adhesion of MDA-MB-231 cells was based on a norepinephrine-mediated release of GROα from HMVECs. GROα caused a β1-integrin–mediated increase of the adhesion of MDA-MB-231 cells. Most interestingly, this effect of norepinephrine, similar to the aforementioned induction of migration in MDA-MB-468 cells, was mediated by β-adrenergic receptors and therefore abrogated by β-blockers. In conclusion, norepinephrine has cell line–specific effects with regard to certain steps of the metastasis cascade, which are conjointly inhibited by clinically established β-blockers. Therefore, these results may deliver a molecular explanation for our recently published retrospective data analysis of patients with breast cancer which shows that β-blockers significantly reduce the development of metastases. Mol Cancer Res; 10(2); 197–207. ©2011 AACR.
Midterm Stability and Hemodynamic Performance of a Transfemorally Implantable Nonmetallic, Retrievable, and Repositionable Aortic Valve in Patients With Severe Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Bijuklic Klaudija , Tuebler Thilo , Reichenspurner Hermann , Treede Hendrik , Wandler Andreas , Harreld John H. , Low Reginald I. , Schofer Joachim 
Published: December 2011

Background—
Misplacement during percutaneous aortic valve implantation can be associated with severe complications. The direct flow medical (DFM) valve is repositionable and retrievable; however, the nonmetallic inflatable and conformable design of the valve results in less radial force, which may have an impact on stability and valve function over time. We, therefore, analyzed the midterm stability of the position, shape, and hemodynamic performance of the DFM percutaneous aortic valve.

Methods and Results—

Sixteen symptomatic high-risk for surgery patients with aortic stenosis and a logistic EuroSCORE >20 underwent implantation and were the subject of this analysis. Clinical, echocardiographic, and dual-source multislice computed tomography data were obtained during 2-year follow-up. The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 81% and 69%, respectively. The dual-source multislice computed tomography follow-up indicated no changes in position, diameter, and orifice area of the DFM valve over time. Echocardiography revealed a significant decrease of the mean gradient from baseline (50.1±11.3 mm Hg) to 30 days (19.6±5.7 mm Hg,
P
<0.001), which remained stable over 2 years. The aortic valve area increased from 0.57±0.15 cm
2
at baseline to 1.47±0.35 cm
2
at 30 days (
P
<0.001) and did not significantly change during 2-year follow-up. Of the patients, 73% had no aortic regurgitation (AR) and 27% had minimal AR.

Conclusions—
In this preliminary series, the 2-year follow-up data of patients, in whom the nonmetallic, repositionable, and retrievable DFM valve was successfully implanted, show stability of the position, shape, and hemodynamic performance, with no AR in most patients.
High Prevalence of Hearing Impairment in HIV‐Infected Peruvian Children
Authors: Chao Christina K. , Czechowicz Josephine A. , Messner Anna H. , Alarcón Jorge , Kolevic Roca Lenka , Larragán Rodriguez Marsi M. , Gutiérrez Villafuerte César , Montano Silvia M. , Zunt Joseph R. 
Published: December 2011

ObjectivesTo measure the prevalence and to identify risk factors of hearing impairment in human immunodeficiency virus‐infected children living in Peru.Study designCross‐sectional observational study.SettingTwo public hospitals and 1 nonprofit center in Lima, Peru, between August 2009 and April 2010.SubjectsA total of 139 HIV‐infected children, ages 4 to 19 years.MethodsHearing impairment and otologic health were assessed with pure tone audiometry, tympanometry, and otoscopy. The primary outcome was hearing loss, defined as average threshold >25dB for 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz, in one or both ears. Historical and socioeconomic information was obtained through parental survey and medical chart review. Statistical analysis included univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression.ResultsFifty‐four (38.8%) of 139 children had hearing impairment. On multivariate analysis, risk factors included: tympanic membrane perforation (odds ratio [OR] 7.08; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.65‐30.5; P =. 01), abnormal tympanometry (OR 2.71; 95% CI, 1.09‐6.75; P =. 03), cerebral infection (OR 11.6; 95% CI, 1.06‐126; P =. 05), seizures (OR 5.20; 95% CI, 1.21‐22.4; P =. 03), and CD4 cell count <500 cells/mm3 (OR 3.53; 95% CI, 1.18‐10.5; P =. 02).ConclusionsThe prevalence of hearing impairment in HIV‐infected children in Lima, Peru was 38.8%. Middle ear disease, prior cerebral infection, and low CD4 cell count were significantly associated with hearing impairment. The high prevalence of hearing impairment emphasizes the need for periodic hearing assessment in the routine clinical care of HIV‐infected children.
HLA-DRB1*15:01 and multiple sclerosis: a female association?
Authors: Irizar Haritz , Muñoz-Culla Maider , Zuriarrain Olaia , Goyenechea Estibaliz , Castillo-Triviño Tamara , Prada Alvaro , Saenz-Cuesta Matias , De Juan Dolores , Lopez de Munain Adolfo , Olascoaga Javier , Otaegui David 
Published: December 2011

Background: The association between multiple sclerosis (MS) and the HLA-DRB1*15:01 haplotype has been proven to be strong, but its molecular basis remains unclear. Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene variants and sex have been proposed to modulate this association. Objectives: 1) Test the association of MS with *15:01 and VDR variants; 2) check whether VDR variants and/or sex modulate the risk conferred by *15:01; 3) study whether *15:01, VDR variants and/or sex affect HLA II gene expression. Methods: Peripheral blood from 364 MS patients and 513 healthy controls was obtained and DNA and total RNA were extracted from leukocytes. HLA-DRB1, DRB5 and DQA1 gene expression measurements and *15:01 genotyping were performed by qPCR. VDR variants were genotyped by PCR-RFLP. Results: Our data confirms that the *15:01 haplotype confers a higher risk of suffering from MS (OR = 1.364; 95% CI = 1.107–1.681). No association was found between VDR variants and MS, but they were shown to moderately modulate the risk conferred by *15:01. Sex confers a much stronger modulation and the *15:01-MS association seems to be female specific. A higher *15:01 frequency has been observed in Basques (45.1%). *15:01 positive samples showed a significant overexpression of DRB1 ( p < 0.001), DRB5 ( p < 0.001) and DQA1 ( p = 0.004) in patients. DRB1 ( p = 0.004) and DRB5 ( p < 0.001) were also overexpressed in *15:01 controls. Conclusions: We confirm the *15:01-MS association and support that it is female specific. The relevance of ethnic origin on association studies has also been highlighted. HLA-DRB1*15:01 seems to be a haplotype consistently linked to high HLA II gene expression.
Children's confidences, parents’ confessions: Child welfare dialogues as technologies of control
Authors: Hennum Nicole Marie Janine 
Published: December 2011

Abstract: The article presents findings from a detailed examination of dialogical sequences recorded in written documents from Norwegian child welfare services. Using a frame drawn from Foucault's theory of technologies of control, it describes how conversations between the social workers and parents function as disciplining tools. By emphasizing children's rights under Norwegian law and scientific based knowledge about children, the social workers regulate the parents’ life towards what is culturally considered as proper parenting in Norway. In doing so, they assign the children and the parents different subject positions in the dialogues. I will argue that the children become subjects through what is perceived as the sharing of confidences, while the parents become subjects through confessions and admissions.
Pandemic and post-pandemic Influenza A (H1N1) infection in critically ill patients
Authors: Martin-Loeches Ignacio , Díaz Emili , Vidaur Loreto , Torres Antoni , Laborda Cesar , Granada Rosa , Bonastre Juan , Martín Mar , Insausti Josu , Arenzana Angel , Guerrero Jose Eugenio , Navarrete Ines , Bermejo-Martin Jesus , Suarez David , Rodriguez Alejandro ,   the H1N1 SEMICYUC/REIPI/CIBERES Working group
Published: December 2011

Abstract
Background
There is a vast amount of information published regarding the impact of 2009 pandemic Influenza A (pH1N1) virus infection. However, a comparison of risk factors and outcome during the 2010-2011 post-pandemic period has not been described.

Methods
A prospective, observational, multi-center study was carried out to evaluate the clinical characteristics and demographics of patients with positive RT-PCR for H1N1 admitted to 148 Spanish intensive care units (ICUs). Data were obtained from the 2009 pandemic and compared to the 2010-2011 post-pandemic period.

Results
Nine hundred and ninety-seven patients with confirmed An/H1N1 infection were included. Six hundred and forty-eight patients affected by 2009 (pH1N1) virus infection and 349 patients affected by the post-pandemic Influenza (H1N1)v infection period were analyzed. Patients during the post-pandemic period were older, had more chronic comorbid conditions and presented with higher severity scores (Acute Physiology And Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA)) on ICU admission. Patients from the post-pandemic Influenza (H1N1)v infection period received empiric antiviral treatment less frequently and with delayed administration. Mortality was significantly higher in the post-pandemic period. Multivariate analysis confirmed that haematological disease, invasive mechanical ventilation and continuous renal replacement therapy were factors independently associated with worse outcome in the two periods. HIV was the only new variable independently associated with higher ICU mortality during the post-pandemic Influenza (H1N1)v infection period.

Conclusion
Patients from the post-pandemic Influenza (H1N1)v infection period had an unexpectedly higher mortality rate and showed a trend towards affecting a more vulnerable population, in keeping with more typical seasonal viral infection.
Topical oxytocin reverses vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women: a double-blind randomized pilot study
Authors: Jonasson Aino Fianu , Edwall Lena , Uvnäs-Moberg Kerstin 
Published: December 2011

Introduction Oxytocin is a peptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus and it is best known for its role in labour and lactation. This double-blind, randomized study was performed at Huddinge Hospital of Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm in order to test the effectiveness of topical oxytocin gel in women with postmenopausal vaginal atrophy. Methods Twenty postmenopausal women (at least two years after menopause) with symptoms of vaginal atrophy such as vaginal dryness, pain, itching, discomfort and bleeding during intercourse were enrolled in the study when visual inspection of the vagina had confirmed that their mucosa was atrophic. The participants were randomized to intravaginal treatment with either oxytocin or placebo gel for seven days. Before and after treatment, a gynaecological examination and a visual and colposcopic inspection of the vagina were performed, biopsies from the vaginal mucosa were taken and blood samples were collected for analysis of circulating levels of estradiol and oxytocin. Results Prior to treatment, visual and colposcopic inspection showed that all of the 20 participants had an atrophic vaginal mucosa. After treatment with the oxytocin gel, the examination showed that the vaginal epithelium of seven of the 10 participants in the oxytocin group had become healthier and normalized. No change in these parameters was observed among the 10 participants in the placebo group. This difference between the oxytocin and placebo groups was significant ( P= 0.003). Seven participants in the active group and four in the placebo group reported relief of symptoms of vaginal atrophy after seven days of applying the gel. The effect of oxytocin to normalize the morphological appearance of the vaginal mucosa was almost significant when compared with the placebo group ( P= 0.07). There was no significant difference between the circulating levels of estradiol and oxytocin in both the oxytocin and placebo groups before and after treatment. None of the participants reported any side-effects. Conclusion Topical treatment with oxytocin appears to improve vaginal atrophy in postmenopausal women. A limitation of this pilot study is that it was based on a small study population hence the results should be regarded with caution. Larger studies are in progress to establish the possibility of using oxytocin as a clinical treatment for vaginal atrophy.
B-Type Natriuretic Peptide: From Posttranslational Processing to Clinical Measurement
Authors: Goetze Jens P 
Published: December 2011

AbstractBACKGROUNDPlasma cardiac natriuretic peptides and peptide fragments from their molecular precursors are markers of heart disease. Clinical studies have defined the current diagnostic utility of these markers, whereas biochemical elucidation of peptide structure and posttranslational processing has revealed new plasma peptide forms of potential clinical use.CONTENTNatriuretic propeptide structures undergo variable degrees of endo- and exoproteolytic cleavages as well as amino acid modifications, which leave the plasma phase of the peptides highly heterogeneous and dependent on cardiac pathophysiology and capacity. An ongoing characterization of the molecular heterogeneity may not only help us to appreciate the biosynthetic capacity of the endocrine heart but may also lead to the discovery of new and more disease-specific targets for future molecular diagnosis.SUMMARYPeptides derived from pro–atrial natriuretic peptide and pro–B-type natriuretic peptide are useful plasma markers in heart failure. New data have defined cardiac myocytes as competent endocrine cells in posttranslational processing and cellular secretion.
The effects of docosahexaenoic acid supplementation and exercise on growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor I serum levels during chronic hypoxia in rats
Authors: Turgut Sebahat , Erken Haydar Ali , Erken Gülten , Ayada Ceylan , Genc Osman , Turgut Günfer 
Published: December 2011

Abstract

Background: In this study we examined the effects of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) on growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) in response to chronic hypoxia and exercise training in hypoxic conditions.

Methods: Thirty-five rats were divided into five groups; control group (C), hypoxia group (H), hypoxia-exercise group (HE), hypoxia-docosahexaenoic acid group (HD), hypoxia-exercise-docosahexaenoic acid group (HED). A treadmill exercise was performed as 30 m/min for 20 min/day, 5 days per week for 28 days at level grade for the exercising groups (HE and HED). DHA was given to the HD and HED groups every day orally (36 mg/kg). The animals, except for the C group, were exposed to hypoxia for 28 days.

Results: Serum levels of GH and IGF-I in the H group decreased after chronic hypoxia (p<0.001). GH and IGF-I in the HD group also decreased compared with the C group (p<0.05, p<0.01, respectively). GH in C group did not show significant difference compared with the HE and HED groups. Decreased serum level of IGF-I was observed for the HED group (p<0.05).

Conclusions: According to our findings, chronic hypoxia exposure decreases serum levels of GH, and IGF-I and exercise training have a slightly positive effect on GH/IGF-I axis during hypoxia. In addition, DHA supplementation slightly increases GH and IGF-I serum levels in hypoxic conditions. However, this effect on GH/IGF-I axis during hypoxia is not strong compared with exercise. Therefore, we concluded that exercise and/or DHA supplementation does not have additional positive effect on these hormones in hypoxic conditions.
Kinematic Stability Evaluation of Spinal Fusion Devices by Synthetic FSU Model
Authors: Hansen Thomas 
Published: December 2011

Abstract
The purpose of the paper is to open discussion for an alternative methodology for stability testing of spinal fusion devices that does not require cadaveric tissue. A simulated single level functional spinal unit (FSU) model was used to evaluate spinal fusion devices as an alternative to using cadaveric human tissue models. Initially, this study was proposed as a feasibility investigation prior to investing in a cadaveric study, but was then developed into an alternative, stand-alone method that eliminates variabilities associated with cadaveric tissue testing for providing comparison testing between spinal devices. The objective of this paper is to present the development of the synthetic FSU model and the apparatus for providing kinematic stability testing on lumbar interbody spinal devices. The synthetic model geometry was based on morphological parameters for the lumbar spine using rigid foam per ASTM F1839. A universal servo-controlled test frame provided the pure moment loading through a system of cables and pulleys for the application of flexion-extension, lateral bending, and axial rotation. Comparable testing was performed using short cyclical, fully reversing runs up to 50 cycles where the last ten cycles were evaluated.
Past, Present, and Future of Model-Based User Interface Development
Authors: Meixner Gerrit , Paternò Fabio , Vanderdonckt Jean 
Published: December 2011

Abstract
This article presents the past, present and future of model-based user interface development. After 30 years of research there has been significant success in modeling user interfaces. This article aims to give a comprehensive overview of the history, describes important aspects and current approaches, lists actual challenges of model-based user interface development and gives implications for the next generation.
Serum high-mobility group box-1 levels are positively associated with micro- and macroalbuminuria but not with cardiovascular disease in type 1 diabetes: the EURODIAB Prospective Complications Study
Authors: Nin Johanna W M , Ferreira Isabel , Schalkwijk Casper G , Prins Martin H , Chaturvedi Nish , Fuller John H , Stehouwer Coen D A , _ _ 
Published: December 2011

Context and objectiveHigh-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that may contribute to the pathogenesis of micro- and macrovascular complications commonly observed in diabetes. We investigated whether HMGB1 is associated with: i) markers of low-grade inflammation (LGI) and endothelial dysfunction (ED) and pulse pressure (PP, a marker of arterial stiffness); ii) prevalent nephropathy, retinopathy and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in type 1 diabetes; and iii) the potential mediating roles of LGI, ED and PP therein.Design and methodsThis was a cross-sectional nested case–control study of 463 patients (226 women; mean age 40±10 years) with type 1 diabetes from the EURODIAB Prospective Complications Study. We used linear and binary or multinomial logistic regression analyses adjusted for traditional risk factors.ResultsSerum Ln-HMGB1 levels were positively associated with LGI and ED (standardisedβ=0.07 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.02–0.12) andβ=0.08 (95% CI: 0.02–0.14) respectively), but not with PP. Higher Ln-HMGB1 (per unit) was associated with greater odds of micro- and macroalbuminuria: odds ratio (OR)=1.24 (95% CI: 0.90–1.71) and OR=1.61 (95% CI: 1.15–2.25) respectively,Pfor trend=0.004. Further adjustments for LGI or ED did not attenuate these associations. No such associations were found between Ln-HMGB1 and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), retinopathy or CVD, however.ConclusionsIn type 1 diabetes, higher serum HMGB1 levels are associated with greater prevalence and severity of albuminuria, though not with eGFR, retinopathy and CVD. Prospective studies are needed to clarify the causal role of HMGB1, if any, in the pathogenesis of vascular complications in type 1 diabetes.
Idiopathic syringomyelia: retrospective case series, comprehensive review, and update on management
Authors: Roy Anil K. , Slimack Nicholas P. , Ganju Aruna 
Published: December 2011

Object
A syrinx is a fluid-filled cavity within the spinal cord that can be an incidental finding or it can be accompanied by symptoms of pain and temperature insensitivity. Although it is most commonly associated with Chiari malformation Type I, the advancement of imaging techniques has resulted in more incidental idiopathic syringes that are not associated with Chiari, tumor, trauma, or postinfectious causes. The authors present a comprehensive review and management strategies for the idiopathic variant of syringomyelia.

Methods
The authors retrospectively identified 8 idiopathic cases of syringomyelia at their institution during the last 6 years. A PubMed/Medline literature review yielded an additional 38 articles.

Results
Two of the authors' patients underwent surgical treatment that included a combination of laminectomy, lysis of adhesions, duraplasty, and syrinx fenestration. The remaining 6 patients were treated conservatively and had neurologically stable outcomes. Review of the literature suggests that an etiology-driven approach is essential in the diagnosis and management of syringomyelia, although conservative management suffices for most cases. In particular, it is important to look at disturbances in CSF flow, as well as structural abnormalities including arachnoid webs, cysts, scars, and a diminutive posterior fossa.

Conclusions
The precise etiology for idiopathic syringomyelia (IS) is still unclear, although conceptual advances have been made toward the overall understanding of the pathophysiology of IS. Various theories include the cerebellar piston theory, intramedullary pulse pressure theory, and increased spinal subarachnoid pressure. For most patients with IS, conservative management works well. Continued progression of symptoms, however, could be approached using decompressive strategies such as laminectomy, lysis of adhesions, and craniocervical decompression, depending on the level of pathology. Management for patients with progressive neurological dysfunction and the lack of flow disturbance is unclear, although syringosubarachnoid shunting can be considered.