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Cao B, Christophersen L, Thomsen K, Sønderholm M, Bjarnsholt T, Jensen PØ, Høiby N, Moser C. 63 Distribution of tobramycin and the impact on bacterial killing in a biofilm model. J Cyst Fibros 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(14)60200-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Heinitz S, Schumann D, Neuhausen J, Köchli S, Thomsen K, Platacis E, Lielausis O, Bucenieks I, Zik A, Romančuks A, Kravalis K, Buligins L, Türler A. A comparison between the chemical behaviour of lead-gold and lead-bismuth eutectics towards 316L stainless steel. RADIOCHIM ACTA 2013. [DOI: 10.1524/ract.2013.2063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Summary
Lead-gold eutectic (LGE) has been recently proposed as an alternative target material for high power spallation sources. In order to compare the corrosive properties of LGE to the better-studied eutectic of lead-bismuth (LBE), an isothermal twin-loop made of SS 316L was built and operated at the Institute of Physics of the University of Latvia. We have measured the concentration of steel alloying elements dissolved in both alloys at the end of two test campaigns via ICP-OES. In case of LGE, a pronounced concentration increase of Fe, Ni, Mn and Cr is found in the liquid metal, which is significantly higher compared to LBE. Similar results were obtained during complementary investigations on material samples exposed to both alloys in this twin-loop at 400 ◦C and 450 ◦C. These findings indicate that in contact with LGE, SS 316L steel suffers from substantial chemical attack. Detailed investigations using structure materials other than SS 316L have to be undertaken before qualifying LGE as a serious alternative to LBE.
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Thomsen K, Ryg J, Matzen L, Masud T. Who to treat for osteoporosis in a falls clinic – a comparison of different international guidelines. Eur Geriatr Med 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurger.2013.07.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Cavanagh JP, Granslo HN, Fredheim EA, Christophersen L, Jensen PO, Thomsen K, Van Gennip M, Klingenberg C, Flaegstad T, Moser C. Efficacy of a synthetic antimicrobial peptidomimetic versus vancomycin in a Staphylococcus epidermidis device-related murine peritonitis model. J Antimicrob Chemother 2013; 68:2106-10. [DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkt161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
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Christophersen LJ, Trøstrup H, Malling Damlund DS, Bjarnsholt T, Thomsen K, Jensen PØ, Hougen HP, Høiby N, Moser C. Bead-size directed distribution of Pseudomonas aeruginosa results in distinct inflammatory response in a mouse model of chronic lung infection. Clin Exp Immunol 2013; 170:222-30. [PMID: 23039893 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2012.04652.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infection in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients is characterized by biofilms, tolerant to antibiotics and host responses. Instead, immune responses contribute to the tissue damage. However, this may depend on localization of infection in the upper conductive or in the peripheral respiratory zone. To study this we produced two distinct sizes of small alginate beads (SB) and large beads (LB) containing P. aeruginosa. In total, 175 BALB/c mice were infected with either SB or LB. At day 1 the quantitative bacteriology was higher in the SB group compared to the LB group (P < 0·003). For all time-points smaller biofilms were identified by Alcian blue staining in the SB group (P < 0·003). Similarly, the area of the airways in which biofilms were identified were smaller (P < 0·0001). A shift from exclusively endobronchial to both parenchymal and endobronchial localization of inflammation from day 1 to days 2/3 (P < 0·05), as well as a faster resolution of inflammation at days 5/6, was observed in the SB group (P < 0·03). Finally, both the polymorphonuclear neutrophil leucocyte (PMN) mobilizer granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) and chemoattractant macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (MIP-2) were increased at day 1 in the SB group (P < 0·0001). In conclusion, we have established a model enabling studies of host responses in different pulmonary zones. An effective recognition of and a more pronounced host response to infection in the peripheral zones, indicating that increased lung damage was demonstrated. Therefore, treatment of the chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection should be directed primarily at the peripheral lung zone by combined intravenous and inhalation antibiotic treatment.
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Malik F, Russell A, Pannirselvam M, Hinken A, Thomsen K, Ardiana A, Godinez G, Jia Z, Saikali K, Chen M, Morgans D, Jasper J. The Fast Skeletal Troponin Activator, CK-2017357, Increases Muscle Function and Survival in SOD1 (G93A) Mice; a Model of ALS (P05.169). Neurology 2012. [DOI: 10.1212/wnl.78.1_meetingabstracts.p05.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Hartwell D, Riis BJ, Christiansen C, Thomsen K, Johansen JS, Rødbro P. Bone metabolism and bone status in osteoporotic patients. ACTA MEDICA SCANDINAVICA 2009; 222:453-8. [PMID: 3425398 DOI: 10.1111/j.0954-6820.1987.tb10964.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
We have studied bone turnover and bone status in 29 patients with hip fractures and compared them with normal subjects and patients with arthritis of the hip. Markers for bone formation, bone Gla protein, alkaline phosphatase and whole body retention of 99mTc-diphosphonate, and fasting urinary hydroxyproline, a marker for bone resorption, were all significantly higher in the hip fracture group than in the control group. The serum concentrations of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D were similar in the three groups, whereas the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration in the control group was higher than in the patient groups. The bone mineral content (BMC) measured in the distal forearm and the spine was lower than normal in the hip fracture group. We conclude that patients with hip fractures have an increased bone turnover with no signs of bimodality and low BMC values at all locations.
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Thomsen K, Nilas L, Christiansen C. Dietary calcium intake and blood pressure in normotensive subjects. ACTA MEDICA SCANDINAVICA 2009; 222:51-6. [PMID: 3307307 DOI: 10.1111/j.0954-6820.1987.tb09928.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Epidemiological and prospective studies in man and animals have indicated an inverse relationship between calcium intake and cardiovascular mortality and blood pressure (BP). We have therefore studied the effect of dietary calcium on blood pressure in two groups of women. In a cross-sectional study 103 early postmenopausal women were stratified into three groups according to daily calcium intake calculated from a questionnaire. Both diastolic and systolic blood pressures were identical in the three groups. We thereafter conducted a prospective placebo-controlled trial on the effect of calcium supplementation. Twenty-eight healthy women were randomized to placebo treatment (n = 14) or calcium supplementation 2,000 mg daily (n = 14) for one year. In both groups BP remained at initial levels throughout the study and was identical in the two groups at measurements every three months. We thus conclude that calcium supplementation has no effect on BP in normotensive subjects on a high calcium diet.
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Thomsen K. The effect of sodium chloride on kidney function in rats with lithium intoxication. ACTA PHARMACOLOGICA ET TOXICOLOGICA 2009; 33:92-102. [PMID: 4800689 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0773.1973.tb01512.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Geisler A, Schou M, Thomsen K. Renal Lithium Elimination in Manic-Depressive Patients – Initial Excretion and Clearance. PHARMACOPSYCHIATRY 2009. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1094307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Purcell JW, Reddy M, Davis J, Samayoa K, Vo CH, Thomsen K, Bean PA, Wood KW, Cases S. Ispinesib (SB-715992) a kinesin spindle protein (KSP) inhibitor has single agent activity and enhances the efficacy of standard-of-care therapies in pre-clinical models of breast cancer. Cancer Res 2009. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.sabcs-2122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Abstract #2122
Background: Ispinesib is a novel highly specific small molecule inhibitor of kinesin spindle protein (KSP), a motor protein that is essential for formation of a bipolar mitotic spindle and for cell cycle progression through mitosis. KSP is expressed only in proliferating cells and not in post-mitotic neurons. In preclinical models and clinical studies thus far, ispinesib exhibits a favorable safety profile compared with tubulin-targeted therapies. Ispinesib has demonstrated clinical activity in patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer that failed to respond/relapsed after treatment with taxanes and anthracyclines, and is currently being evaluated in a Phase I/II trial as first-line treatment in chemotherapy-naïve patients with locally advanced (Stage IIIB) or metastatic (Stage IV) breast cancer. In the current study, we explored the anti-tumor activity of ispinesib as a single agent and in combination with approved therapies in preclinical models of breast cancer. Methods: We implanted cells representative of hormone receptor positive luminal tumors (MCF-7), tumors overexpressing Her-2 (KPL4, HCC1954, BT474) or triple-negative basal tumors (MDA-MB-468) in immunodeficient female Nude or SCID mice. We started dosing Ispinesib when tumor volume reached 100-150mm3 and monitored xenograft growth for 60 days post treatment. Results: Ispinesib administered i.p. as a single agent on a q4dx3 schedule at its MTD induced tumor regressions in all five models of human breast cancer. In particular, all treated MDA-MB-468 xenografts (7/7) were tumor free survivors at 90 days post dosing. In tumors collected at different times post-dosing, we observed a strong mitotic arrest, inhibition of proliferation, and increased apoptosis by western blotting and IHC analyses of PH3, Ki67 and cleaved PARP respectively. We also determined the efficacy of ispinesib in combination with standard-of-care therapies in breast cancer. In the Her2 overexpressing models, the combination of ispinesib and herceptin markedly improved response rate and efficacy over either single agent. Tumor Growth Inhibition (TGI) was 99% for the combined agents, 67% for herceptin and 78% for ispinesib in KPL4. A similar benefit was found by combining ispinesib with lapatinib in BT474. Finally, ispinesib enhanced the anti-tumor activity of doxorubicin, causing an increase in TGI in 2 separate models (in MCF7, TGI was 86% for the combined agents, 39% for doxorubicin and 67% for ispinesib). Additional combination studies with capecitabine are under investigation.Conclusions: In distinct models of human breast cancer, ispinesib exhibited significant anti-tumor activity as a single agent. When used in combination, ispinesib enhanced the activity of standard-of-care therapies herceptin, lapatinib and doxorubicin. These data suggest that ispinesib may offer clinical benefit in the treatment of breast cancer, and support clinical studies of ispinesib in combination with these therapies.
Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 2122.
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Wedderkopp N, Thomsen K, Manniche C, Kolmos HJ, Secher Jensen T, Leboeuf Yde C. No evidence for presence of bacteria in modic type I changes. Acta Radiol 2009; 50:65-70. [PMID: 19052939 DOI: 10.1080/02841850802524485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent studies suggest an association between sciatica and Propionibacterium acnes. "Modic type I changes" in the vertebrae are closely associated with sciatica and lower back pain, and recent studies have questioned the ability of conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to differentiate between degenerative Modic type I changes and vertebral abnormalities caused by infection. PURPOSE To test whether bacteria could be cultured from biopsies of Modic type I changes. MATERIAL AND METHODS Twenty-four consecutive patients with Modic type I changes in lumbar vertebrae had a biopsy taken from the affected vertebra by a strict aseptic procedure. The biopsy was split into two specimens, which were inoculated into thioglycolate agar tubes in the surgical theatre and transported to the microbiology laboratory. In the laboratory, one specimen was streaked onto plates and analyzed for anaerobic and aerobic culture. The other tube was left unopened and incubated directly. Plates and tubes were incubated for 2 weeks and observed for visible growth. RESULTS None of the biopsies yielded growth of anaerobic bacteria. In one patient, both biopsies yielded growth of Staphylococcus epidermidis, and in another patient coagulase-negative staphylococci were isolated from one biopsy. Both patients received oral antibiotics without convincing effect on symptoms. CONCLUSION Our results showed no evidence of bacteria in vertebrae with Modic type I changes. The isolation of staphylococci from two patients probably represented contamination.
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Podofillini L, Dang V, Thomsen K. Scoping-level Probabilistic Safety Assessment of a complex experimental facility: Challenges and first results from the application to a neutron source facility (MEGAPIE). NUCLEAR ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nucengdes.2008.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Lucchinetti CF, Gavrilova RH, Metz I, Parisi JE, Scheithauer BW, Weigand S, Thomsen K, Mandrekar J, Altintas A, Erickson BJ, König F, Giannini C, Lassmann H, Linbo L, Pittock SJ, Brück W. Clinical and radiographic spectrum of pathologically confirmed tumefactive multiple sclerosis. Brain 2008; 131:1759-75. [PMID: 18535080 PMCID: PMC2442427 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awn098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 308] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Atypical imaging features of multiple sclerosis lesions include size >2 cm, mass effect, oedema and/or ring enhancement. This constellation is often referred to as ‘tumefactive multiple sclerosis’. Previous series emphasize their unifocal and clinically isolated nature, however, evolution of these lesions is not well defined. Biopsy may be required for diagnosis. We describe clinical and radiographic features in 168 patients with biopsy confirmed CNS inflammatory demyelinating disease (IDD). Lesions were analysed on pre- and post-biopsy magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for location, size, mass effect/oedema, enhancement, multifocality and fulfilment of Barkhof criteria. Clinical data were correlated to MRI. Female to male ratio was 1.2 : 1, median age at onset, 37 years, duration between symptom onset and biopsy, 7.1 weeks and total disease duration, 3.9 years. Clinical course prior to biopsy was a first neurological event in 61%, relapsing–remitting in 29% and progressive in 4%. Presentations were typically polysymptomatic, with motor, cognitive and sensory symptoms predominating. Aphasia, agnosia, seizures and visual field defects were observed. At follow-up, 70% developed definite multiple sclerosis, and 14% had an isolated demyelinating syndrome. Median time to second attack was 4.8 years, and median EDSS at follow-up was 3.0. Multiple lesions were present in 70% on pre-biopsy MRI, and in 83% by last MRI, with Barkhof criteria fulfilled in 46% prior to biopsy and 55% by follow-up. Only 17% of cases remained unifocal. Median largest lesion size on T2-weighted images was 4 cm (range 0.5–12), with a discernible size of 2.1 cm (range 0.5–7.5). Biopsied lesions demonstrated mass effect in 45% and oedema in 77%. A strong association was found between lesion size, and presence of mass effect and/or oedema (P< 0.001). Ring enhancement was frequent. Most tumefactive features did not correlate with gender, course or diagnosis. Although lesion size >5 cm was associated with a slightly higher EDSS at last follow-up, long-term prognosis in patients with disease duration >10 years was better (EDSS 1.5) compared with a population-based multiple sclerosis cohort matched for disease duration (EDSS 3.5; P< 0.001). Given the retrospective nature of the study, the precise reason for biopsy could not always be determined. This study underscores the diagnostically challenging nature of CNS IDDs that present with atypical clinical or radiographic features. Most have multifocal disease at onset, and develop RRMS by follow-up. Although increased awareness of this broad spectrum may obviate need for biopsy in many circumstances, an important role for diagnostic brain biopsy may be required in some cases.
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Fazio C, Gröschel F, Wagner W, Thomsen K, Smith B, Stieglitz R, Zanini L, Guertin A, Cadiou A, Henry J, Agostini P, Dai Y, Heyck H, Dementjev S, Panebianco S, Almazouzi A, Eikenberg J, Letourneau A, Toussaint J, Janett A, Perret C, Joray S, Patorski J, Leung W, Meloni P, Turroni P, Zucchini A, Benamati G, Konys J, Auger T, Gessi A, Gorse D, Serre I, Terlain A, Vogt JB, Batta A, Class A, Cheng X, Fellmoser F, Daubner M, Gnieser S, Grötzbach G, Milenkovic R, Latgé C, Knebel J. The MEGAPIE-TEST project: Supporting research and lessons learned in first-of-a-kind spallation target technology. NUCLEAR ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nucengdes.2007.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Thomsen K, Beck S, Wilhelm B. The jabber chat tool EFDA Messenger and screen sharing tool EFDATV. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2008.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Castro R, Vega J, Portas A, López D, Balme S, Theis J, Lebourg P, Fernandes H, Neto A, Duarte A, Oliveira F, Reis F, Purahoo K, Thomsen K, Schiller W, Kadlecsik J. PAPI based federation as a test-bed for a common security infrastructure in EFDA sites. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fusengdes.2007.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Albrecht M, Kleinkauf-Houken A, Trams G, Thomsen K. 5jährige Erfahrungen mit adjuvanter Chemotherapie beim primären Mammakarzinom. Geburtshilfe Frauenheilkd 2008; 44:550-6. [PMID: 6567559 DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1036300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In 515 patients with primary carcinoma of the breast T1a-3aN1a-bM0, the authors conducted simple mastectomy with radical lymphonodectomy of the axilla from 1976 onwards to the time of reporting. In 190 patients with affected lymph nodes, assisting chemotherapy was effected with a combination of three drugs, namely, trofosfamide, methotrexate and 5-fluoro-uracil for a period of 12 months postoperatively. Patients whose lymph nodes remained free were not subjected to follow-up treatment. For both groups of patients, the rates of relapses and survival times were established for an average follow-up time of 41 months (15-75). No significant differences in the rates of relapses and localisation were seen on comparing both groups (P = 0.27). In the patients with affected lymph nodes, local relapses were somewhat more frequent than with patients whose lymph nodes were not affected (11.1% vs. 9.8%); the same also applied to the occurrence of metastases distant from the primary tumour (12.1% vs. 7.4%). Significant differences in survival rates in patients with affected lymph nodes were seen only in the tumour stages T1/T2 (P = 0.001) and for the stages T2/T3 (P = 0.009). The menopausal status of the patients did not show any significant differences in respect of probability of survival for both groups (N-:P = 0.75; N+:P = 0.79).
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Purhonen P, Thomsen K, Maunsbach AB, Hebert H. Association of renal Na,K-ATPase alpha-subunit with the beta- and gamma-subunits based on cryoelectron microscopy. J Membr Biol 2007; 214:139-46. [PMID: 17557166 DOI: 10.1007/s00232-006-0056-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2006] [Revised: 11/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Na,K-ATPase transports Na(+) and K(+) across cell membranes and consists of alpha- and beta-subunits. Na,K-ATPase also associates with small FXYD proteins that regulate the activity of the pump. We have used cryoelectron microscopy of two-dimensional crystals including data to 8 A resolution to determine the three-dimensional (3-D) structure of renal Na,K-ATPase containing FXYD2, the gamma-subunit. A homology model for the alpha-subunit was calculated from a Ca(2+)-ATPase structure and used to locate the additional beta- and gamma-subunits present in the 3-D map of Na,K-ATPase. Based on the 3-D map, the beta-subunit is located close to transmembrane helices M8 and M10 and the gamma-subunit is adjacent to helices M2 and M9 of the alpha-subunit.
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Abstract
The aetiology of congenital club foot is unclear. Although studies on populations, families and twins suggest a genetic component, the mode of inheritance does not comply with distinctive patterns. The Odense-based Danish Twin Registry contains data on all 73 000 twin pairs born in Denmark over the last 130 years. In 2002 all 46 418 twins born between 1931 and 1982 received a 17-page questionnaire, one question of which was ‘Were you born with club foot?’ A total of 94 twins answered ‘Yes’, giving an overall self-reported prevalence of congenital club foot of 0.0027 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.0022 to 0.0034). We identified 55 complete twin pairs, representing 12 monozygotic, 22 dizygotic same sex (DZss), 18 dizygotic other sex (DZos) and three unclassified. Two monozygotic and 2 DZss pairs were concordant. The pairwise concordance was 0.17 (95% CI 0.02 to 0.48) for monozygotic, 0.09 (95% CI 0.01 to 0.32) for DZss and 0.05 (95% CI 0.006 to 0.18) for all dizygotic (DZtot) twins. We have found evidence of a genetic component in congenital club foot, although non-genetic factors must play a predominant role.
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Schou AJ, Thomsen K, Plomgaard AM, Wolthers OD. Methodological aspects of high-frequency ultrasound of skin in children. Skin Res Technol 2004; 10:200-6. [PMID: 15225271 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0846.2004.00070.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-frequency ultrasound of the skin has recently been introduced for assessment of systemic effects in the cutis and subcutis of oral and inhaled glucocorticoids in children. However, the use of high-frequency skin ultrasound in clinical trials is invalidated because important methodological aspects have not been addressed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate inter- and intraobserver, day to day and diurnal variations of measurement of thickness of cutis and subcutis, and the fraction of low echogenic pixels (fLEP) in the cutis and, furthermore, to assess effects of exercise on the cutis and subcutis and variations in subcutaneous thickness between anatomical locations in children with a high-frequency B-mode ultrasound scanning device. METHODS Three studies were conducted, each including 10 healthy prepubertal children. High-frequency skin ultrasound was performed with the 20 MHz Dermascan C (Cortex Technology, Hadsund, Denmark). In study 1, the same observer performed five consecutive scannings to assess intraobserver variations. In study two different observers performed scannings at 2 h intervals between 08:00 and 20:00 h, whereby interobserver and diurnal variations were assessed. In study 3, the same observer performed scannings in different anatomical locations on five consecutive days, and on one of these days before and after exercise. Thus day-to-day variations and the effect of exercise were assessed. RESULTS Low inter- and intraobserver variations were found on assessment of the thickness of cutis and subcutis, whereas high variations were found on evaluation of the dermal water content. Diurnal variations were absent, and day-to-day variations were low. Exercise caused significant increases in the thickness of cutis and subcutis on the thigh. CONCLUSION Low inter- and intraobserver variations make high-frequency ultrasound a precise and reliable tool for assessment of the cutaneous and subcutaneous thickness in children. In future trials, repetitive scannings need not to be performed at the same time of the day, whereas strenuous physical activity should be avoided on days of examination.
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Schou AJ, Plomgaard AM, Thomsen K, Wolthers OD. Lower leg growth suppression caused by inhaled glucocorticoids is not accompanied by reduced thickness of the cutis or subcutis. Acta Paediatr 2004; 93:623-7. [PMID: 15174784 DOI: 10.1111/j.1651-2227.2004.tb02986.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exogenous glucocorticoids suppress short-term lower leg growth in children as assessed by knemometry. The knemometric measurements, however, may be confounded by reductions in the thickness of the cutis and subcutis over the knee. AIM To assess whether inhaled glucocorticoid-induced suppression of short-term growth is accompanied by changes in the thickness of the cutis and subcutis. METHODS The study was a randomized, controlled, crossover trial with 1 wk treatment, run-in and washout periods. Active treatment was inhaled budesonide 200 microg twice daily. Short-term growth was assessed by knemometry, and the thickness of the cutis and subcutis over the knee, on the volar forearm and abdomen was measured by 20 MHz B-mode ultrasound. MATERIAL Nineteen children with asthma aged 7 to 13 y. RESULTS Lower leg growth was significantly reduced during budesonide treatment (0.27 mm/wk) compared to the treatment-free period (0.54 mm/wk) (p = 0.02, 95%: -0.50 to -0.05). Variations in the thickness of the cutis were seen during budesonide treatment (mean +/- SEM): -0.01 +/- 0.03 mm over the knee, -0.02 +/- 0.02 mm on the forearm and 0.01 +/- 0.02 mm on the abdomen. The variations in the total thickness of the cutis and subcutis were -0.05 +/- 0.12 mm, 0.06 +/- 0.12 mm and -0.06 +/- 0.10 mm during budesonide treatment. The variations in thickness of the cutis or subcutis were not statistically different during budesonide treatment and the treatment free period in any anatomical location. CONCLUSIONS Short-term lower leg growth suppression induced by inhaled glucocorticoids is not confounded by variations in thickness of cutis or subcutis. The present observations further establishes knemometry as a reliable tool for assessment of the risk of growth suppression of inhaled glucocorticoids in children with asthma.
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Xu QG, Cheng C, Sun H, Thomsen K, Zochodne DW. Local sensory ganglion ischemia induced by endothelin vasoconstriction: vulnerability of diabetic neurons and microvessels. Neuroscience 2004; 122:897-905. [PMID: 14643759 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-4522(03)00520-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In some disorders of the peripheral nervous system, it is relevant to understand how sensory neurons respond to selective ganglion ischemia. Sensory dorsal root ganglia may be susceptible to ischemic damage and irretrievable neuron loss because of their metabolic requirements. In diabetes, heightened sensitivity to ischemia associated with elevated endothelin levels might render ganglia particularly vulnerable. In this work, we created a model of local sensory ganglion ischemia by generating intense local vasoconstriction from applied endothelin-1 (ET). In this model, we compared relative vulnerability of L5 ganglia microvessels and neurons to ET in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and nondiabetic controls. Diabetic ganglia had reductions in baseline core ganglion blood flow (GBF) measured using microelectrode hydrogen clearance polarography and ET induced particularly profound declines. Serial GBF measurements made using a laser Doppler flowmetry probe also indicated that diabetic ganglia exposed to ET had a marked prolongation in its action. Neuron perikarya and proximal axon segments were more vulnerable in diabetes. Neurons exhibited loss of neurofilament labeling, dissolution of the neurons, replacement of neurons with "nests of Nageotte," displacement of nuclei to the periphery of perikarya, and nuclear labeling with TUNEL. Both intraganglionic axons and downstream sural sensory axons developed evidence of axonal degeneration. Local endothelin-induced vasoconstriction of microvessels supplying dorsal root ganglia provides a selective model of ischemia. Diabetic vessels and neurons, exposed to a greater depth and duration of ischemia from endothelin, are especially vulnerable.
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Thomsen K. The international global H-mode confinement database: storage and distribution. FUSION ENGINEERING AND DESIGN 2002. [DOI: 10.1016/s0920-3796(02)00031-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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Hansen TK, Møller J, Thomsen K, Frandsen E, Dall R, Jørgensen JO, Christiansen JS. Effects of growth hormone on renal tubular handling of sodium in healthy humans. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2001; 281:E1326-32. [PMID: 11701449 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.2001.281.6.e1326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
To investigate the mechanisms behind the water- and sodium-retaining effects of growth hormone (GH), we studied the effect of GH on 1) water and sodium homeostasis, 2) the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), and 3) lithium clearance (C(Li)) with and without concomitant prostaglandin (PG) synthesis inhibition with ibuprofen. GH administration for 6 days induced a significant increase in plasma renin, which was abolished by coadministration of ibuprofen (mU x l(-1) x 24 h(-1): control: 22.4 +/- 4.3; GH: 37.7 +/- 8.8; ibuprofen: 15.2 +/- 3.0; GH + ibuprofen: 19.7 +/- 2.5; ANOVA: P < 0.01). Comparable increments in extracellular volume were seen after 6-day treatment with GH alone and in combination with ibuprofen [liters: control, 19.57 +/- 0.92; GH, 20.80 +/- 1.00 (ANOVA: P < 0.0005); ibuprofen, 19.38 +/- 0.90; GH + ibuprofen, 21.63 +/- 1.37 (ANOVA: P < 0.0005)]. Treatment with GH increased C(Li) and changed the tubular handling of sodium and water. The absolute distal sodium reabsorption was increased, and this was only partially counterbalanced by decreased reabsorption in the proximal tubules. The data demonstrate that GH-induced activation of the RAAS can be blocked by concomitant PG synthesis inhibition and that the tubular effects of GH include increased distal nephron sodium and water reabsorption.
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