bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of in vitro hemolysis on hematological testing on Advia 2120
Authors: LIPPI G. , MUSA R. , AVANZINI P. , ALOE R. , PIPITONE S. , SANDEI F. 
Published: November 2011

SummaryIntroduction:  Although there is broad knowledge on the effect of several preanalytical errors on laboratory hematology, there is no information on the reliability of routine hematological testing on hemolyzed specimens.Methods:  K2EDTA‐anticoagulated blood collected from 13 healthy volunteers was divided in three aliquots. Aliquot A did not undergo further manipulation, while the second and third aliquots (B and C, respectively) were passed 5 and 10 times through a small‐gauge needle to produce scalar amounts of hemolysis. Hematological testing was first performed on Advia 2120. The plasma was then separated by centrifugation and tested for lactate dehydrogenase and hemolysis index (HI).Results:  As compared with the nonhemolyzed aliquot, analytically and clinically significant variations were recorded in both mildly and frankly hemolyzed specimens for lactate dehydrogenase, HI, red blood cells count, hematocrit, mean corpuscular volume, mean hemoglobin content, lymphocytes, basophils, and large unstained cells. Both the platelets count and the mean platelet volume were also dramatically affected. The other parameters tested (hemoglobin, red blood cell distribution width, neutrophils, and eosinophils) did not vary significantly.Conclusion:  The results of routine hematological testing on mildly to frankly hemolyzed specimens might be unreliable.
Intravenous injection of autologous amniotic fluid induces transient thrombocytopenia in a gravid rabbit model of amniotic fluid embolism
Authors: Rannou B. , Rivard G.‐E. , Gains M. J. , Bédard C. 
Published: November 2011

BackgroundAmniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare but catastrophic complication of pregnancy characterized by severe hypotension, cardiovascular collapse, and massive consumptive coagulopathy. Several animal models of this syndrome have been proposed, but most have yielded inconclusive results.ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to develop a suitable animal model of AFE.MethodsTwelve rabbits in late gestation (25 days) were used. Amniotic fluid was collected from the fetal amniotic sacs after laparotomy, and autologous fluid was injected into 6 rabbits via the left auricular vein. Six other rabbits received saline (control group). Blood pressure, platelet counts, and coagulation variables were measured at baseline and at various intervals for 60 minutes after injection. The in vitro effect of amniotic fluid on coagulation was assessed by thrombelastographic (TEG) analysis.ResultsInjection of amniotic fluid did not reproduce clinical signs of AFE and had no effect on activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), prothrombin time (PT), or Factor VIII activity. However, significant thrombocytopenia was observed 5 minutes after administration of amniotic fluid and resolved by 60 minutes. In vitro addition of amniotic fluid to blood resulted in accelerated clotting on TEG tracings.ConclusionsThe syndrome of AFE was not reproduced in this rabbit model. However, injection of autologous amniotic fluid induced a transient and severe thrombocytopenia. Moreover, TEG analysis indicated that amniotic fluid could initiate the coagulation cascade. Other factors such as the presence of meconium in amniotic fluid may be needed to provoke more severe clinical signs.
Frequencies of blood typesA, B, andABin non‐pedigree domestic cats inBeijing
Authors: Zheng Lan , Zhong Yougang , Shi Zhensheng , Giger Urs 
Published: November 2011

BackgroundFrequencies of blood types A, B, and AB in domestic cats vary geographically and among breeds and have not been reported in China.ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to survey the frequency of blood types in domestic cats in theBeijing area.MethodsA total of 262 cats from the city ofBeijing were blood‐typed using a standard tube agglutination assay. All cats were nonpedigree domestic shorthaired and longhaired cats; purebred cats were excluded. Serum obtained from type‐B cats and a lectin (Triticum vulgaris) solution served as anti‐Aand anti‐Breagents, respectively. The presence of alloantibodies was also determined in some cats.ResultsThe frequency of blood types was 88.2% typeA, 11.4% typeB, and 0.4% typeAB. The tube assay resulted in 3+ to 4+ agglutination reactions with either the anti‐Aor anti‐Breagents. The 1 typeABsample showed 3+ agglutination with both anti‐Aand anti‐Breagents; the plasma of that sample did not react with either type‐Aor type‐B RBCs. Tested type‐Bcats had strong anti‐Aantibodies.ConclusionsThe frequency of blood typeBin theBeijing area was relatively high and similar to that reported for otherAsian countries andAustralia. Blood‐typing is recommended to match donors and recipients before transfusion therapy and planned matings to avoid hemolytic transfusion and neonatal isoerythrolysis reactions, respectively, due to blood‐type incompatibility.
Endocrine disorders and laminitis
Authors: Tadros E. M. , Frank N. 
Published: November 2011

SummaryTwo common endocrine disorders, pituitarypars intermediadysfunction and equine metabolic syndrome, predispose horses and ponies to laminitis and may even induce the condition. The exact mechanisms involved in endocrinopathic laminitis have not been elucidated but hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance are currently being investigated. Obesity and regional adiposity may also contribute to laminitis susceptibility through the release of inflammatory cytokines and adipokines. In the case of pituitarypars intermediadysfunction, glucocorticoid excess is likely to weaken hoof structures, alter vascular dynamics within the foot and induce or exacerbate insulin resistance. This review will summarise current theories regarding the pathophysiology of endocrinopathic laminitis and provide recommendations for the diagnosis and management of these common equine endocrine disorders.
A questionnaire study on parasite control practices on UK breeding Thoroughbred studs
Authors: RELF V. E. , MORGAN E. R. , HODGKINSON J. E. , MATTHEWS J. B. 
Published: November 2011

SummaryReasons for performing study:Improved education of veterinarians and equine owners/managers is essential in implementing parasite control strategies that are less reliant on chemicals.Methods:This questionnaire study, conducted on 61 UK Thoroughbred (TB) establishments during 2009 and 2010, was designed to obtain an understanding of current helminth control practices on studs. To our knowledge, this is the first occasion that statements obtained from TB studs via questionnaire have been supported by statistical analysis.Results:Despite many respondents indicating high levels of concern regarding anthelmintic resistance, 56% of these establishments that received visiting equines co‐grazed these animals with permanent stock and <74% administered anthelmintics prior to integration. In the 12 months preceding the study, most respondents administered frequent macrocyclic lactone (ML) treatments, with none appearing to leave any animals in groups untreated at each administration. Indiscriminate whole group treatments with MLs and movement of animals to ‘clean grazing’ post treatment (reported by >25% of respondents), indicates that many stud owners/managers are not aware of the strong risk factors for the development of anthelmintic resistance. Few studs had conducted faecal egg count (FEC) analysis in the past and only 22% indicated that they considered this form of analysis beneficial in determining anthelmintic choice.Conclusions and potential relevance:The challenge now is to convince stud owners/managers to deviate from their current practices to control strategies that are more likely to preserve anthelmintic efficacy. Veterinarians need to get more involved in implementing these control strategies, with better emphasis placed on the role of diagnostic tests in facilitating targeted treatments and in investigating anthelmintic sensitivity in the associated nematode populations.
Tumour-infiltrating macrophages and clinical outcome in breast cancer
Authors: Mahmoud S M A , Lee A H S , Paish E C , Macmillan R D , Ellis I O , Green A R 
Published: November 2011

BackgroundMacrophages constitute a major component of the leucocytic infiltrate of tumours. Human studies show an association between tumour-associated macrophages and tumours with poor prognostic features. In breast cancer, the presence of macrophages has been correlated with increased angiogenesis and poor prognosis but little information is available about the independent prognostic role of macrophages infiltrating breast carcinomas.Aims and methodsThis study used immunohistochemistry and tissue microarrays to assess the density and localisation of CD68 macrophages infiltrating 1322 breast tumours and to identify any relationship with clinicopathological factors and patient outcome.ResultsTumour-infiltrating macrophages were present in the majority of tumours with a predominantly diffuse pattern. The density of distant stromal macrophages (infiltrating stroma away from the carcinoma, median count 14 cells) was higher than intratumoural (median zero cells) and adjacent stromal macrophages (median three cells). Higher total macrophage number was associated with higher tumour grade (rs=0.39, p<0.001), ER and PgR negativity, HER-2 positivity and basal phenotype (p<0.001). In univariate survival analysis, higher numbers of CD68 macrophages were significantly associated with worse breast cancer-specific survival (p<0.001) and shorter disease-free interval (p=0.004). However in multivariate model analysis, the CD68 macrophage count was not an independent prognostic marker.ConclusionsMacrophages are heterogeneous with different subsets having different functions. The present study suggests that overall macrophage numbers are not related to prognosis in breast cancer. However, further studies are needed to investigate the potential role of different subsets of macrophages.
Predicting clinical behaviour of breast phyllodes tumours: a nomogram based on histological criteria and surgical margins
Authors: Tan Puay Hoon , Thike Aye Aye , Tan Wai Jin , Thu Minn Minn Myint , Busmanis Inny , Li HuiHua , Chay Wen Yee , Tan Min‐Han ,   The Phyllodes Tumour Network Singapore
Published: November 2011

AimTo define a predictive model for clinical behaviour of breast phyllodes tumours (PT) using histological parameters and surgical margin status.MethodsCases of breast PT diagnosed in the Department of Pathology Singapore General Hospital between January 1992 and December 2010 were stratified into benign, borderline and malignant grades based on a combination of histological parameters (stromal atypia, hypercellularity, mitoses, overgrowth and nature of tumour borders). Surgical margin status was assessed. Clinical follow-up and biostatistical modelling were accomplished.ResultsOf 605 PT, 440 (72.7%) were benign, 111 (18.4%) borderline and 54 (8.9%) malignant. Recurrences, which were predominantly local, were documented in 80 (13.2%) women. Deaths from PT occurred in 12 (2%) women. Multivariate analysis revealed stromal atypia, overgrowth and surgical margins to be independently predictive of clinical behaviour, with mitoses achieving near significance. Stromal hypercellularity and tumour borders were not independently useful. A nomogram developed based on atypia, mitoses, overgrowth and surgical margins (AMOS criteria) could predict recurrence-free survival at 1, 3, 5 and 10 years. This nomogram was superior to a total histological score derived from adding values assigned to each of five histological parameters.ConclusionA predictive nomogram based on three histological criteria and surgical margin status can be used to calculate recurrence-free survival of an individual woman diagnosed with PT. This can be applied for patient counselling and clinical management.
Antifungal treatment affects the laboratory diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis
Authors: McCulloch Elaine , Ramage Gordon , Rajendran Ranjith , Lappin David F , Jones Brian , Warn Peter , Shrief Raghdaa , Kirkpatrick William R , Patterson Thomas F , Williams Craig 
Published: November 2011

AimsThe purpose of this study was to investigate the performance of non-invasive diagnostic tests such as galactomannan enzyme immunoassay and quantitative PCR in the early diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis (IA), and how these tests are impacted upon by the use of different classes of antifungal agents in an in-vivo model of IA.MethodsA standardised rat inhalation model of IA was used to examine the effects of an azole, posaconazole, a polyene, amphotericin B and an echinocandin caspofungin. Daily blood samples were collected for subsequent analysis using a commercially available galactomannan assay and an inhouse qPCR assay.ResultsNo significant differences were observed in the CE/g ofAspergillus fumigatusin the lungs of each group. qPCR was statistically more sensitive than galactomannan for both the early detection of infected controls (p=0.045) and for overall detection (p=0.018). However, antifungal treatment significantly reduced the overall sensitivity of qPCR (p=0.020); these effects were due to posaconazole and caspofungin. In the latter stages of infection (days 4 and 5) there were no significant differences in the numbers of infections detected by galactomannan and qPCR; however, the antifungal class used caused significant qualitative differences (p=0.041). Galactomannan showed improved detection in posaconazole-treated animals.ConclusionsPrevious exposure to antifungal therapy must be considered when interpreting either qPCR or galactomannan-based IA diagnostics as this study has shown that individual classes of antifungal agents impact upon the dynamics of antigen and DNA release into the circulation.
Geochemistry of Torridonian tuffs and contemporary phosphorites; potential for correlation of Torridonian sequences in NW Scotland
Authors: Batchelor Richard A. 
Published: November 2011

Synopsis
Although a number of discoveries have been made in recent years, there are very few historical reports of volcanic ash deposits in the Torridonian rocks of Scotland. New examples extend the known occurrence of such deposits and analyses suggest a geochemical stratigraphy for a suite of rocks that are otherwise notoriously difficult to correlate. Tuffs from the Colonsay Group are described for the first time, subdivided according to their geochemical characteristics. The Kilchattan Formation of Colonsay may correlate with the Torridonian Diabaig Formation and, based on the geochemistry of both tuffs and contemporary phosphorites, the Upper Diabaig Formation may be correlated with the Lower Sleat Group. This is the first attempt to construct a stratigraphy of the Torridonian based on the geochemical characteristics of contemporary tuffs.
NKX3.1 Haploinsufficiency Is Prognostic for Prostate Cancer Relapse following Surgery or Image-Guided Radiotherapy
Authors: Locke Jennifer A. , Zafarana Gaetano , Ishkanian Adrian S. , Milosevic Michael , Thoms John , Have Cherry L. , Malloff Chad A. , Lam Wan L. , Squire Jeremy A. , Pintilie Melania , Sykes Jenna , Ramnarine Varune Rohan , Meng Alice , Ahmed Omer , Jurisica Igor , van der Kwast Theo , Bristow Robert G. 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
Background: Despite the use of prostate specific antigen (PSA), Gleason-score, and T-category as prognostic factors, up to 40% of patients with intermediate-risk prostate cancer will fail radical prostatectomy or precision image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT). Additional genetic prognosticators are needed to triage these patients toward intensified combination therapy with novel targeted therapeutics. We tested the role of the NKX3.1 gene as a determinant of treatment outcome given its reported roles in tumor initiating cell (TIC) renewal, the DNA damage response, and cooperation with c-MYC during prostate cancer progression.
Methods: Using high-resolution array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH), we profiled the copy number alterations in TIC genes using tumor DNA from frozen needle biopsies derived from 126 intermediate-risk patients who underwent IGRT. These data were correlated to biochemical relapse-free rate (bRFR) by the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox proportional hazards models.
Results: A screen of the aCGH-IGRT data for TIC genes showed frequent copy number alterations for NKX3.1, PSCA, and c-MYC. NKX3.1 haploinsufficiency was associated with increased genomic instability independent of PSA, T-category, and Gleason-score. After adjusting for clinical factors in a multivariate model, NKX3.1 haploinsufficiency was associated with bRFR when tested alone (HR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.46–6.39, P = 0.0030) or when combined with c-MYC gain (HR = 3.88, 95% CI: 1.78–8.49, P = 0.00067). A similar association was observed for patients following radical prostatectomy with a public aCGH database. NKX3.1 status was associated with positive biopsies post-IGRT and increased clonogen radioresistance in vitro.
Conclusions: Our results support the use of genomic predictors, such as NKX3.1 status, in needle biopsies for personalized approaches to prostate cancer management. Clin Cancer Res; 18(1); 308–16. ©2011 AACR.
Seasonal and Intraseasonal Modulation of Tropical Cyclogenesis Environment over the Bay of Bengal during the Extended Summer Monsoon
Authors: Yanase Wataru , Satoh Masaki , Taniguchi Hiroshi , Fujinami Hatsuki 
Published: November 2011

Abstract
The environmental field of tropical cyclogenesis over the Bay of Bengal is analyzed for the extended summer monsoon season (approximately May–November) using best-track and reanalysis data. Genesis potential index (GPI) is used to assess four possible environmental factors responsible for tropical cyclogenesis: lower-tropospheric absolute vorticity, vertical shear, potential intensity, and midtropospheric relative humidity. The climatological cyclogenesis is active within high GPI in the premonsoon (~May) and postmonsoon seasons (approximately October–November), which is attributed to weak vertical shear. The genesis of intense tropical cyclone is suppressed within the low GPI in the mature monsoon (approximately June–September), which is due to the strong vertical shear. In addition to the climatological seasonal transition, the authors’ composite analysis based on tropical cyclogenesis identified a high GPI signal moving northward with a periodicity of approximately 30–40 days, which is associated with boreal summer intraseasonal oscillation (BSISO). In a composite analysis based on the BSISO phase, the active cyclogenesis occurs in the high GPI phase of BSISO. It is revealed that the high GPI of BSISO is attributed to high relative humidity and large absolute vorticity. Furthermore, in the mature monsoon season, when the vertical shear is climatologically strong, tropical cyclogenesis particularly favors the phase of BSISO that reduces vertical shear effectively. Thus, the combination of seasonal and intraseasonal effects is important for the tropical cyclogenesis, rather than the independent effects.
Effects of Anatomy and Particle Size on Nasal Sprays and Nebulizers
Authors: Frank Dennis O. , Kimbell Julia S. , Pawar Sachin , Rhee John S. 
Published: November 2011

ObjectiveTo study the effects of nasal deformity on aerosol penetration past the nasal valve (NV) for varying particle sizes using sprays or nebulizers.Study DesignComputed mathematical nasal airway model.SettingDepartment computer lab.Subjects and MethodsParticle deposition was analyzed using a computational fluid dynamics model of the human nose with leftward septal deviation and compensatory right inferior turbinate hypertrophy. Sprays were simulated for 10 µm, 20 µm, 50 µm, or particle sizes following a Rosin Rammler particle size distribution (10‐110 µm), at speeds of 1, 3, or 10 meters per second. Nebulization was simulated for 1, 3.2, 6.42, or 10 µm particles. Steady state inspiratory airflow was simulated at 15.7 liters per minute.ResultsSprays predicted higher NV penetration on the right side for particle sizes >10 µm, with comparable penetration on both sides at 10 µm. Nearly 100% deposited in the nasal passages for all spray characteristics. Nebulizer predictions showed nearly 100% of particles <6.42 µm and more than 50% of 6.42 µm bypassing both sides of the nose without depositing. Of the nebulized particles that deposited, penetration was higher on the right at 10 µm, with comparable penetration on both sides at 6.42 µm. Spray penetration was highest at 10 µm, with more than 96% penetrating on both sides at 1 and 3 meters per second. Nebulization penetration was also highest at 10 µm (40% on the left, >90% on the right).ConclusionIn the presence of a septal deviation, sprays or nebulizers containing 10‐µm particles may have good penetration beyond the NV. Nebulized particles <10 µm are likely to be respirable. Additionally, spray speeds above 3 meters per second may limit penetration.
Tensile property of surface-treated poly-p-phenylenebenzobisoxazole (PBO) fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polyimide composite
Authors: Liang Yu , Xianhua Cheng 
Published: November 2011

The current study examined the effect of rare earth (RE) solution surface modification of poly- p-phenylenebenzobisoxazole (PBO) fibers on the tensile property of PBO fiber-reinforced thermoplastic polyimide (PBO/PI) composites. Experimental results revealed that RE surface treatment could effectively improve the interfacial adhesion between PBO fibers and PI matrix. Compared with the untreated and coupling agent-treated PBO/PI composite, the RE-treated composite had better interfacial adhesion. For RE-treated PBO/PI composites, the tensile strength and tensile modulus varied with RE concentrations, and the optimum value was obtained at 0.6 wt% of RE concentration. The fracture surface morphologies of the samples were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to analyze the effect of various surface treatments. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) study of PBO fibers surface showed that the ratio of oxygen/carbon on the surface of PBO fibers was obviously increased after RE treatment, which indicated the content of polar groups on the surface of PBO fibers increased compared with the others. The increase in the amount of polar groups strengthened the interfacial adhesion between PBO fibers and PI matrix and accordingly enhanced the tensile properties.
Characterization and significance of ACE2 and Mas receptor in human colon adenocarcinoma
Authors: Bernardi Stella , Zennaro Cristina , Palmisano Silvia , Velkoska Elena , Sabato Nicoletta , Toffoli Barbara , Giacomel Greta , Buri Luigi , Zanconati Fabrizio , Bellini Giuseppe , Burrell Louise M , De Manzini Nicolò , Fabris Bruno 
Published: November 2011

Introduction: A new arm of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) has been recently characterized; this includes angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE)2 and angiotensin (Ang)1-7, a heptapeptide acting through the Mas receptor (MasR). Recent studies show that Ang1-7 has an antiproliferative action on lung adenocarcinoma cells. The aim of this study was to characterize RAS expression in human colon adenocarcinoma and to investigate whether Ang1-7 exerts an antiproliferative effect on human colon adenocarcinoma cells. Materials and methods: Gene, protein expression and enzymatic activity of the main components of the RAS were determined on non-neoplastic colon mucosa as well as on the tumor mass and the mucosa taken 5 cm distant from it, both collected from patients with colon adenocarcinoma. Two different human colon cancer cell lines were treated with AngII and Ang1-7. Results: The novel finding of this study was that MasR was significantly upregulated in colon adenocarcinoma compared with non-neoplastic colon mucosa, which showed little or no expression of it. ACE gene expression and enzymatic activity were also increased in the tumors. However, AngII and Ang1-7 did not have any pro-/antiproliferative effects in the cell lines studied. Conclusions: The data suggest that upregulation of the MasR could be used as a diagnostic marker of colon adenocarcinoma.