bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reducing HDAC6 ameliorates cognitive deficits in a mouse model for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Govindarajan Nambirajan , Rao Pooja , Burkhardt Susanne , Sananbenesi Farahnaz , Schlüter Oliver M. , Bradke Frank , Lu Jianrong , Fischer André
Published: November 2012

Histone deacetylases (HDACs) are currently being discussed as promising therapeutic targets to treat neurodegenerative diseases. However, the role of specific HDACs in cognition and neurodegeneration remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate the function of HDAC6, a class II member of the HDAC superfamily, in the adult mouse brain. We report that mice lacking HDAC6 are cognitively normal but reducing endogenous HDAC6 levels restores learning and memory and α‐tubulin acetylation in a mouse model for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Our data suggest that this therapeutic effect is, at least in part, linked to the observation that loss of HDAC6 renders neurons resistant to amyloid‐β‐mediated impairment of mitochondrial trafficking. Thus, our study suggests that targeting HDAC6 could be a suitable strategy to ameliorate cognitive decline observed in AD.
Location‐assisted clustering and scheduling for coordinated homogeneous and heterogeneous cellular networks
Authors: Eslami Mohsen , Elliott Robert C. , Krzymień Witold A. , Al‐Shalash Mazin
Published: November 2012

The multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) downlink with transmitter coordination in a cellular network is considered. The transmitters are assumed to be either neighbouring base stations (homogeneous) or a base station with a number of remote radio heads that form picocells in its coverage area (heterogeneous). In centralized coordinated transmission from a cluster of nodes, the channel state information (CSI) of users needs to be sent to a central processor for precoding and resource allocation. Real‐time CSI feedback from the users to their home base station and from the base stations to the central processor is a serious challenge from a practical point of view. In this work, efficient location‐assisted limited‐feedback schemes for homogeneous and heterogeneous cellular networks are proposed. First, a hybrid mode transmission scheme with reduced feedback requirement is proposed for a homogeneous network, in which on the basis of the location of users, some are served using a single‐cell multiuser MIMO approach and some using a network MIMO approach. Next, for a heterogeneous network, a location‐assisted clustering and scheduling scheme is proposed for the case of joint reference signals, in which multiple transmission nodes that share the reference signals cannot be distinguished from each other. We evaluate the performance of our schemes with a series of simulations. In the homogeneous scenario, we compare with the case of full CSI, and in the heterogeneous scenario, we compare with joint transmission from all nodes in a cell. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Network planning for distributed antenna‐based high‐speed railway mobile communications
Authors: Wang Jin‐Yuan , Wang Jun‐Bo , Song Xiaoyu , Chen Ming , Zhang Jie
Published: November 2012

Network planning in wireless communication systems, which has strong impacts on the system performance, is a complex and challenging issue. This paper investigates the network planning problem under high‐speed railway communication scenarios. A system model is characterised in terms of distributed antenna technology. An optimisation problem is formulated to optimise the total system cost with transmission rate, handoff time and antenna number constraints. Because the optimisation problem is NP‐hard, a particle swarm optimisation (PSO)‐based network planning strategy is proposed to tackle it. The complexity analysis demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed PSO‐based network planning scheme in terms of running time and memory space. Finally, the simulation results substantiate that the proposed method can consistently offer a better performance gain in comparison with the uniform network planning scheme. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Examining the Return–Volatility Relation for Foreign Exchange: Evidence from the Euro VIX
Authors: Daigler Robert T. , Hibbert Ann Marie , Pavlova Ivelina
Published: November 2012

We compare the return–volatility relation for the euro currency to the equivalent relation for the equity market, examining the sign, symmetry, and strength of the relation. We employ the euro‐currency exchange‐traded fund (FXE) and its associated option implied volatility index (the EVZ), whereas previous studies only employ equities and/or realized volatility. The equity studies find a negative asymmetric return–volatility relation for implied volatility, with a strong relation when large market movements occur. We find that the euro return–volatility relation can possess either a positive or negative sign, is asymmetric, and has a weaker relation. Thus, the sign and strength of the euro relation differs from the equivalent equity relation. Our quantile regressions show that both the positive and negative contemporaneous returns of the euro result in increased volatility in the extreme quantiles of the conditional distribution, with the contemporaneous effect showing a stronger relation when the euro depreciates. We also find that the volume of the euro‐currency ETF options affects the return–volatility relation for the euro ETF. Overall, the results here expand the concept originally restricted to equities, with the surprising results that the return‐implied volatility relation is weaker and the asymmetric return sometimes is positive for the euro currency. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 34:74–92, 2014
Defective bile salt biosynthesis and hydroxylation in mice with reduced cytochrome P450 activity
Authors: Kunne Cindy , Acco Alexandra , Hohenester Simon , Duijst Suzanne , de Waart Dirk R. , Zamanbin Alaleh , Oude Elferink Ronald P.J.
Published: November 2012

The difference in bile salt (BS) composition between rodents and humans is mainly caused by formation of muricholate in rodents as well as by efficient rehydroxylation of deoxycholic acid. The aim of this study was to characterize bile formation in a mouse model (

Hrn

mice) with hepatic disruption of the cytochrome p450 (CYP) oxidoreductase gene, encoding the single electron donor for all CYPs. Bile formation was studied after acute BS infusion or after feeding a BS-supplemented diet for 3 weeks. Fecal BS excretion in

Hrn

mice was severely reduced to 7.6% ± 1.8% of wild-type (WT), confirming strong reduction of (CYP-mediated) BS synthesis.

Hrn

bile contained 48% ± 18% dihydroxy BS, whereas WT bile contained only 5% ± 1% dihydroxy BS. Upon tauroursodeoxycholate infusion, biliary BS output was equal in WT versus

Hrn

, indicating that canalicular secretion capacity was normal. In contrast, taurodeoxycholic acid (TDC) infusion led to markedly impaired bile flow and BS output, suggesting onset of cholestasis. Feeding a cholate-supplemented diet (0.1%) resulted in a completely restored bile salt pool in

Hrn

mice, with 50% ± 9% TDC and 42% ± 10% taurocholic acid in bile, as opposed to 2% ± 1% and 80% ± 3% in WT mice, respectively. Under these conditions, biliary cholesterol secretion was strongly increased in

Hrn

mice, whereas serum alanine aminotransferase levels were decreased.

Conclusion

:

Hrn

mice have strongly impaired bile salt synthesis and (re)hydroxylation capacity and are more susceptible to acute TDC-induced cholestasis. In this mouse model, a more-human BS pool can be instilled by BS feeding, without hepatic damage, which makes

Hrn

mice an attractive model to study the effects of human BS.
Complexity of cancer stem cells
Authors: Sugihara Eiji , Saya Hideyuki
Published: November 2012

Heterogeneity of tumor tissue has been accounted for in recent years by a hierarchy‐based model in which cancer stem cells (CSCs) have the ability both to self‐renew and to give rise to differentiated tumor cells and are responsible for the overall organization of a tumor. Research into CSCs has progressed rapidly and concomitantly with recent advances in the biology of normal tissue stem cells, resulting in the identification of CSCs in a wide range of human tumors. Studies of mouse models of human cancer have provided further insight into the characteristics of CSCs as well as a basis for the development of novel therapies targeted to these cells. However, recent studies have revealed complexities, such as plasticity of stem cell properties and clonal diversity of CSCs, in certain tumor types that have led to revision of the original CSC model. In this review, we summarize the history of the discovery and characterization of CSCs, as well as address recent advances that have revealed the complexity of these cells and their therapeutic implications.
Fe65 matters: New light on an old molecule
Authors: Minopoli Giuseppina , Gargiulo Anna , Parisi Silvia , Russo Tommaso
Published: November 2012

The discovery that the main constituents of amyloid deposits, characteristic of Alzheimer neuropathology, derive from the proteolytic processing of the membrane precursor amyloid precursor protein (APP) is one of the milestones of the research history of this disease. Despite years of intense studies, the functions of APP and of its amyloidogenic processing are still under debate. One focus of these studies was the complex network of protein–protein interactions centered at the cytosolic domain of APP, which suggests the involvement of APP in a lively signaling pathway. Fe65 was the first protein to be demonstrated to interact with the APP cytodomain. Starting from this observation, a large body of data has been gathered, indicating that Fe65 is an adaptor protein, which binds numerous proteins, further than APP. Among these proteins, the crosstalk with Mena, mDab, and Abl suggested the involvement of the Fe65–APP complex in the regulation of cell motility, with a relevant role in differentiation and development. Other partners, like the histone acetyltransferase Tip60, indicated the possibility that the nuclear fraction of Fe65 could be involved in gene regulation and/or DNA repair. © 2012 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 64(12): 936–942, 2012
Real‐time interactive two‐photon photoconversion of recirculating lymphocytes for discontinuous cell tracking in live adult mice
Authors: Chtanova Tatyana , Hampton Henry R. , Waterhouse Louise A. , Wood Katherine , Tomura Michio , Miwa Yoshihiro , Mackay Charles R. , Brink Robert , Phan Tri Giang
Published: November 2012

The potential usefulness of intravital two‐photon microscopy for fate mapping is limited by its inability to track cells beyond the confines of the imaging volume. Therefore, we have developed and validated a novel method for in vivo photolabelling of spatially‐restricted cells expressing the Kaede optical highlighter by two‐photon excitation. This has allowed us to optically mark a cohort of follicular B cells and track their dissemination from the original imaging volume in the lymph node to the spleen and contralateral lymph node. We also present the first demonstration, to our knowledge, of in vivo photoconversion of a freely moving single cell in a live adult animal. This method of `discontinuous' cell tracking therefore significantly extends the fate mapping capabilities of two‐photon microscopy to delineate the spatiotemporal dynamics of cellular processes that span multiple anatomical sites at the single cell level. (© 2014 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bicarbonate Secreted From the Pancreas Contributed to the Formation of Ca Precipitates in Japanese eel, Anguilla japonica
Authors: Mekuchi Miyuki , Watanabe Soichi , Kaneko Toyoji
Published: November 2012

Marine teleosts produce Ca precipitates in the intestine as a product of osmoregulation. Ca precipitates are formed by a chemical reaction of Mg2+ and Ca2+ derived from ingested seawater with bicarbonate (HCO3−). It has been reported that HCO3− originates from the intestine; however, the pancreas is predicted to be another organ that may supply HCO3− to the intestinal tract. In the present study, the pancreas was surgically removed from Japanese eel to confirm its contribution to Ca precipitate formation. Pancreatectomized eel produced significantly less Ca precipitates than control eel in seawater, indicating that HCO3− from the pancreas contributes substantially to the formation of Ca precipitates. To further examine the molecular mechanisms of HCO3− secretion, we cloned cDNAs encoding HCO3− transporters and identified those transporters that elevated their mRNA expression in the intestine and pancreas following seawater transfer. In the intestine, mRNA expression of Slc26a6A was increased shortly after seawater transfer, whereas Slc26a1 mRNA expression increased gradually following seawater transfer. In the pancreas, Slc26a3 mRNA expression was high during the early stage of seawater acclimation, whereas Slc26a1 expression increased gradually after transfer to seawater. In the intestine and pancreas, therefore, both transient and progressively increasing types of HCO3− transporters are likely to be involved in HCO3− secretion into the intestinal lumen in a coordinated manner. J. Exp. Zool. 319A:53–62, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
“A Big Piece of News”: Théodule Ribot and the Founding of the Revue Philosophique de la France et de l'Etranger
Authors: Nicolas Serge
Published: November 2012

This paper describes the founding of the Revue Philosophique de la France et de l’Étranger by Théodule Ribot (1839–1916) in 1876. Like the English journal Mind, which was launched the same year, this journal introduced the new scientific psychology to France. Its founding increased Ribot's scientific credibility in psychology and led him to be regarded as the most distinguished French specialist in the field. First, we review the state of French philosophy at the time of the journal's founding, focusing on the three main French schools of thought in philosophy and on their relations with psychology. Second, after analyzing the preface written by Ribot in the first issue of the Revue Philosophique, we examine how the journal was received in French philosophical circles. Finally, we discuss its subsequent history, highlighting its founder's promotion of new ideas in psychology.
Mortality, morbidity, and disease severity of patients with aspiration pneumonia
Authors: Lanspa Michael J. , Jones Barbara E. , Brown Samuel M. , Dean Nathan C.
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Aspiration pneumonia is a common syndrome, although less well characterized than other pneumonia syndromes. We describe a large population of patients with aspiration pneumonia.

METHODS

In this retrospective population study, we queried the electronic medical records at a tertiary‐care, university‐affiliated hospital from 1996 to 2006. Patients were initially identified by International Classification of Diseases, 9th Revision code 507.x; subsequent physician chart review excluded patients with aspiration pneumonitis and those without a confirmatory radiograph. Patients with community‐acquired aspiration pneumonia were compared to a contemporaneous population of community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP) patients. We compared CURB‐65 (a clinical prediction rule based on Confusion, Uremia, Respiratory rate, Blood Pressure, and age)–predicted mortality with actual 30‐day mortality.

RESULTS

We identified 628 patients with aspiration pneumonia, of which 510 were community‐acquired. Median age was 77 years, with 30‐day mortality of 21%. Compared to CAP patients, patients with community‐acquired aspiration pneumonia had more frequent inpatient admission (99% vs 58%) and intensive care unit admission (38% vs 14%), higher Charlson comorbidity index (3 vs 1), and higher prevalence of do not resuscitate/intubate orders (24% vs 11%). CURB‐65 predicted mortality poorly in aspiration pneumonia patients (area under the curve, 0.66).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with community‐acquired aspiration pneumonia are older, have more comorbidities, and demonstrate higher mortality than CAP patients, even after adjustment for age and comorbidities. CURB‐65 poorly predicts mortality in this population. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2013;8:83–90. © 2012 Society of Hospital Medicine
Pressure–morphology relationship of a released carpal tunnel
Authors: Kim Dong Hee , Marquardt Tamara L. , Gabra Joseph N. , Shen Zhilei Liu , Evans Peter J. , Seitz William H. , Li Zong‐Ming
Published: November 2012

We investigated morphological changes of a released carpal tunnel in response to variations of carpal tunnel pressure. Pressure within the carpal tunnel is known to be elevated in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome and dependent on wrist posture. Previously, increased carpal tunnel pressure was shown to affect the morphology of the carpal tunnel with an intact transverse carpal ligament (TCL). However, the pressure–morphology relationship of the carpal tunnel after release of the TCL has not been investigated. Carpal tunnel release (CTR) was performed endoscopically on cadaveric hands and the carpal tunnel pressure was dynamically increased from 10 to 120 mmHg. Simultaneously, carpal tunnel cross‐sectional images were captured by an ultrasound system, and pressure measurements were recorded by a pressure transducer. Carpal tunnel pressure significantly affected carpal arch area (p < 0.001), with an increase of >62 mm2 at 120 mmHg. Carpal arch height, length, and width also significantly changed with carpal tunnel pressure (p < 0.05). As carpal tunnel pressure increased, carpal arch height and length increased, but the carpal arch width decreased. Analyses of the pressure–morphology relationship for a released carpal tunnel revealed a nine times greater compliance than that previously reported for a carpal tunnel with an intact TCL. This change of structural properties as a result of transecting the TCL helps explain the reduction of carpal tunnel pressure and relief of symptoms for patients after CTR surgery. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 616–620, 2013
The stability of natural red/pink food colours in ultrahigh‐temperature (UHT) products
Authors: Crinó Michelle A , Heenan Claire N , Nguyen Minh H , Stathopoulos Costas E
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

The aim of this experiment was to select a pool of potential red/pink natural colour candidates and evaluate their stability during ultrahigh‐temperature (UHT) processing and subsequent storage and to compare their behaviour against the artificial colour erythrosine. It was hypothesised that heat processing and post‐treatment storage conditions would have a negative effect on the stability of the natural colourants.

RESULTS

All colourants except fermented red rice showed significant colour loss post‐UHT processing (α = 0.05). Analysis of the colour parameters L*, a* and b* determined that lycopene was the least stable of the colourants and red radish the most stable under all conditions. Fermented red rice was observed to be heat‐stable after exposure to UHT processing and also remained relatively stable during storage, as was black carrot. The variation across trials and the spoilage of some samples were attributed to the fluctuations in temperature (±5 °C) observed during processing.

CONCLUSION

Heat processing and post‐treatment storage conditions had a negative effect on the stability of the natural colourants. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Ochratoxin A removal by Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains: effect of wine‐related physicochemical factors
Authors: Petruzzi Leonardo , Sinigaglia Milena , Corbo Maria Rosaria , Beneduce Luciano , Bevilacqua Antonio
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the effect of some physicochemical parameters on the removal of ochratoxin A (OTA) by yeasts.

RESULTS

Two wild strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (W47 and Y28) were used to assess OTA removal under various conditions of temperature, pH, ethanol content and incubation time. All samples were analysed for OTA concentration by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition, yeast oenological traits were investigated: qualitative and technological traits were assessed on appropriate laboratory media, while the main products of microfermentation (sugars, ethanol, glycerol, acetic acid) were evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed OTA reduction by 36–42% in cultures containing 100 g L−1 ethanol incubated at pH 3.5 and 37 °C.

CONCLUSION

OTA removal was affected by contact time, pH and ethanol content, as it was increased at low pH and by 100 g L−1 ethanol. Moreover, the phenomenon was reversible, as OTA was lowest after 4 days, then it was partially released in the medium. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Stabilising emulsion‐based colloidal structures with mixed food ingredients
Authors: Dickinson Eric
Published: November 2012

The physical scientist views food as a complex form of soft matter. The complexity has its origin in the numerous ingredients that are typically mixed together and the subtle variations in microstructure and texture induced by thermal and mechanical processing. The colloid science approach to food product formulation is based on the assumption that the major product attributes such as appearance, rheology and physical stability are determined by the spatial distribution and interactions of a small number of generic structural entities (biopolymers, particles, droplets, bubbles, crystals) organised in various kinds of structural arrangements (layers, complexes, aggregates, networks). This review describes some recent advances in this field with reference to three discrete classes of dispersed systems: particle‐stabilised emulsions, emulsion gels and aerated emulsions. Particular attention is directed towards explaining the crucial role of the macromolecular ingredients (proteins and polysaccharides) in controlling the formation and stabilisation of the colloidal structures. The ultimate objective of this research is to provide the basic physicochemical insight required for the reliable manufacture of novel structured foods with an appealing taste and texture, whilst incorporating a more healthy set of ingredients than those found in many existing traditional products. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni as a source of bioactive compounds: the effect of harvest time, experimental site and crop age on steviol glycoside content and antioxidant properties
Authors: Tavarini Silvia , Angelini Luciana G
Published: November 2012

Background

This study was aimed at identifying the effect of harvest time, experimental site and crop age on the no‐calorie sweetener steviol glycosides (SG) and on the antioxidant properties of stevia leaf extracts. The experiment was conducted over two growing seasons at two sites in the northeastern plain of Italy.

Results

The results showed that all analysed factors played an important role in defining the SG profile and the antioxidant properties of stevia extracts. A high level of phenols (78.24 mg GAE g−1 DW by Folin–Ciocalteu method) and high antioxidant activity (812.6 µmol Fe2+ g−1 DW by FRAP assay) were observed. The inhibition of DPPH free radicals was evaluated and an IC50 mean value of 250 µg mL−1 was obtained. Significant relationships among the total antioxidant capacity and the analysed compounds were found.

Conclusion

The results showed the possibility of obtaining, in the tested environments, very high SG yields thanks to the long‐day conditions during the spring/summer season. The harvest time played a key role in determining the stevia quality, influencing the rebaudioside A/stevioside ratio. The strong antioxidant properties make very interesting the possibility of using stevia extracts to improve functional food properties. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Olive leaves (Olea europaea L.) versus α‐tocopheryl acetate as dietary supplements for enhancing the oxidative stability of eggs enriched with very‐long‐chain n‐3 fatty acids
Authors: Botsoglou Evropi N , Govaris Alexandros K , Ambrosiadis Ioannis A , Fletouris Dimitrios J
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Ninety‐six brown Lohmann laying hens were equally assigned into four groups with six replicates. Hens within the control group were given a corn/soybean‐based diet supplemented with 30 g kg−1 fish oil. Two other groups were given the same diet further supplemented with olive leaves at 5 (OL5) and 10 (OL10) g kg−1 respectively, while the diet of the fourth group was supplemented with α‐tocopheryl acetate (TOC) at 200 mg kg−1. Eggs were analysed for lipid hydroperoxide and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, fatty acid profile, α‐tocopherol content and susceptibility to iron‐induced lipid oxidation.

RESULTS

Neither OL nor TOC supplementation affected (P > 0.05) the fatty acid composition. Dietary supplementation with OL10 or TOC reduced (P ≤ 0.05) the lipid hydroperoxide content but exerted no (P > 0.05) effect on the MDA content of fresh eggs compared with controls. Eggs submitted to iron‐induced lipid oxidation from the OL5 group presented higher (P ≤ 0.05) MDA levels than the control but lower (P ≤ 0.05) than the OL10 group. Eggs from the TOC group presented lower (P ≤ 0.05) MDA levels compared with all groups at all incubation time points.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study suggested that dietary supplementation with both OL10 and TOC could protect n‐3 fatty acids in eggs from deterioration.
A comprehensive chromatographic comparison of amphetamine and methylamphetamine extracted from river water using molecular imprinted polymers and without the need for sample derivatization
Authors: Wongniramaikul Worawit , Choodum Aree , Dennany Lynn , Daeid Niamh Nic
Published: November 2012

This work explores the differences between two GCMS instruments for the determination of amphetamine and methylamphetamine extracted from water samples (ultra pure water and river water) without the necessity for derivatization. The instruments contained different generations of gas chromatograph and mass selective detector components and revealed significantly different results when presented with the same samples. The extraction methodology also compared two SPE systems. The extraction efficiency of commercially available molecular imprinted polymers as a sorbent in SPE was compared with commonly used hydrophilic balance sorbent. Molecular imprinted polymers provided excellent recoveries (81 ± 2% and 108 ± 3% at 30 μg L−1, and 94 ± 2% and 94 ± 2% at 200 μg L−1 for amphetamine and methylamphetamine, respectively). The best LOD obtained was sufficient for the determination of both drugs extracted from river water (0.029 ± 0.003 and 0.015 ± 0.004 μg L−1 for amphetamine and methylamphetamine, respectively). These were comparable to literature values obtained through conventional extraction and analysis using LC‐MS/MS but had the advantage of being achieved using an underivatized GCMS method.
A comparison of various modes of liquid–liquid based microextraction techniques: Determination of picric acid
Authors: Burdel Martin , Šandrejová Jana , Balogh Ioseph S. , Vishnikin Andriy , Andruch Vasil
Published: November 2012

Three modes of liquid–liquid based microextraction techniques – namely auxiliary solvent‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction, auxiliary solvent‐assisted dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction with low‐solvent consumption, and ultrasound‐assisted emulsification microextraction – were compared. Picric acid was used as the model analyte. The determination is based on the reaction of picric acid with Astra Phloxine reagent to produce an ion associate easily extractable by various organic solvents, followed by spectrophotometric detection at 558 nm. Each of the compared procedures has both advantages and disadvantages. The main benefit of ultrasound‐assisted emulsification microextraction is that no hazardous chlorinated extraction solvents and no dispersive solvent are necessary. Therefore, this procedure was selected for validation. Under optimized experimental conditions (pH 3, 7 × 10−5 mol/L of Astra Phloxine, and 100 μL of toluene), the calibration plot was linear in the range of 0.02–0.14 mg/L and the LOD was 7 μg/L of picric acid. The developed procedure was applied to the analysis of spiked water samples.
Influence of ionic liquids as electrolyte additives on chiral separation of dansylated amino acids by using Zn(II) complex mediated chiral ligand exchange CE
Authors: Zhang Haizhi , Qi Li , Mu Xiaoyu , Zhou Xiaoping , Li Dan , Mao Lanqun
Published: November 2012

In this work, investigation of the comparative influence of diverse ionic liquids (ILs) as electrolyte additives on the chiral separation of dansylated amino acids by using Zn(II)‐L‐arginine complex mediated chiral ligand exchange CE (CLE‐CE) was conducted. It has been found that not only the varied substituted group number, but also the alkyl chain length of the substituted group on imidazole ring in the structure of ILs show different influence on chiral separation of the analytes in the CLE‐CE system, which could be understood by their direct influence on EOF. Meanwhile, the variation of anion in the structure of ILs displayed remarkably changed performance and the ILs with Cl− showed the most obvious promoting effect on the chiral separation performance. Among the investigated seven ILs, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride was validated to be the proper electrolyte additive in the CLE‐CE system. Moreover, it has been observed that 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride also has obvious promotive effect on the labeling performance. The results have demonstrated that the ILs with different structures have important relation to their performance in CLE‐CE and to their labeling efficiency in dansylation of the analytes.
Simultaneous separation of jasmonic acid conjugates with amino acids by MEKC
Authors: Chen Ying , Chen Zilin
Published: November 2012

Jasmonic acid (JA) conjugates with amino acids (AAs) are a group of plant hormone in the family of jasmonates. The separation of stereoisomers of JA‐AA conjugates is a very challenging work since these stereoisomers have similar chromatographic and electrophoretic behavior. Simultaneous separation of ten (±)‐JA conjugates with five AAs including l‐Tyr (tyrosine), l‐leucine, l‐Ile (isoleucine), l‐valine, and l‐phenylalanine and their stereoisomers has been achieved by MEKC with diode array detector in this work. Optimum separation of the analytes was obtained on a 61.5 cm × 75 μm id capillary using a running buffer containing 80 mM SDS and 50 mM phosphates (pH 7.0) at +18 kV applied voltage and capillary temperature of 35°C. Ten stereoisomers of JA conjugates with five AAs are completely separated in 13 min. The RSDs of the migration times and peak areas of the ten stereoisomers were in the range of 0.48–1.03% and 1.03–2.07%, respectively. In the tested concentration range, good linear relationships (correlation coefficients above 99%) between peak areas and concentrations of the analytes were observed. The proposed method has been successfully applied to the analysis of spiked rice floret sample and original reaction solution of (±)‐JA‐Ile conjugate and (±)‐JA‐Tyr conjugate. The recoveries ranged from 91.7 to 107.6% for the rice floret sample and 92.9 to 107.2% for the original reaction solution.
Laser interstitial thermotherapy of small breast fibroadenomas: Numerical simulations
Authors: Marqa Mohamad Feras , Mordon Serge , Betrouni Nacim
Published: November 2012

Background

Laser interstitial thermotherapy (LITT) is potentially a novel method to treat small breast fibroadenoma, without the need for surgical removal. Dosimetry planning and conformation of the treated area of tumor remain major issues, especially for a moving organ such as the breast. Pre‐treatment simulation planning of this therapy is an effective method to predict the final thermal damage. In this study, a mathematical model is elaborated to simulate the heat distribution and the thermal damage.

Methods

The mathematical model was based on finite element method (FEM) to solve the light distribution, bioheat, and thermal damage equations. Six simulations were performed with the following powers: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 W (λ = 980 nm), and for an irradiation time of 125 seconds, with a 50°C iso‐damage temperature. To validate these simulations, six turkey breast samples were irradiated with parameters used for simulations. Volumes of thermal damage were calculated by using formulas: spherical, Elliptical, and Carlsson volumes and compared to the simulated volumes.

Results

Differences between volumes were from 0.01 to 1 cm3. Interpolations between volumes from ex vivo experiments with corresponding powers were established. The relationship between the volume of the thermal damage and the laser power was described by a polynomial equation (R2 = 0.99).

The power estimated by the interpolation to obtain 1 cm3 of thermal damage was 7.4 W (922 J) and the maximum corresponding temperature was 90°C.

Conclusion

In this study, a good correlation was established between simulation and ex vivo experiments of LITT for fibroadenoma breast cancer. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 832–839, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy (PACT) using phenothiazine derivatives as photosensitizers against Leishmania braziliensis
Authors: Barbosa Artur F. , Sangiorgi Bruno B. , Galdino Suely L. , Barral‐Netto Manoel , Pitta Ivan R. , Pinheiro Antônio L.
Published: November 2012

Background and Objective

Cutaneous and mucocutaneous leishmaniasis are diseases characterized by skin or mucosal manifestations. In the new world, Leishmania braziliensis is the main etiological agent of cutaneous leishmaniasis, condition that may evolve to the mucocutaneous form. The therapeutic arsenal routinely employed to treat infected patients is unsatisfactory, especially for pentavalent antimonials, treatment recommended by the WHO, as they are often highly toxic, poorly tolerated and of variable effectiveness. This work aimed to evaluate in vitro the effectiveness of photodynamic antimicrobial chemotherapy as a new approach for the treatment of leishmaniasis.

Materials and Methods

A laser (λ = 660 nm, 40 mW, 4.2 J/cm2, and 8.4 J/cm2, CW) associated to phenothiazine's derivatives (5 and 10 µg/ml, toluidine blue O, methylene blue, or phenothiazine) on the promastigote forms of L. braziliensis in a single session. Samples were removed and analyzed in a hemocytometer 72 hours after PACT and viability of the parasites was assessed in quadruplicates.

Results

An important decrease in the number of viable parasites on all treated groups in comparison to their controls was observed as all tested compounds lead to significant parasite lethality being the highest lethality achieved with 10 µg/ml of TBO. No lethality was observed on groups treated with laser or with any of the compounds separately.

Conclusions

TBO presented higher parasite lethality in comparison to MB with impressive reduction from 1 hour to 5 minutes of pre‐incubation time. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 850–855, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Decreasing 25‐hydroxy‐vitamin D levels account for portion of the effect of increasing body mass index on breast cancer mortality
Authors: Morton Matthew L. , Thompson Cheryl L.
Published: November 2012

Scope

Increased body mass index (BMI) and decreased serum vitamin D are both known to be associated with increased mortality from breast cancer. However, vitamin D levels are lower in obese individuals in general. Recent studies have sought to determine whether serum vitamin D levels can account for some of the association between higher BMI and increased risk for breast cancer and found that low vitamin D levels in the overweight and obese account for up to 40% of the BMI‐attributable risk of developing breast cancer.

Methods and results

Here we reviewed the literature to determine if a similar relationship exists between vitamin D, BMI, and breast cancer mortality. Utilizing previously reported independent associations of low vitamin D and high BMI to increases in breast cancer mortality, as well as the known decrement in vitamin D per unit increase in BMI, we estimated that low vitamin D levels may be responsible for roughly 16% of the increased mortality from breast cancer in overweight and obese patients.

Conclusion

Although this is a relatively small proportion of the effect of obesity, supplements to increase serum vitamin D levels may represent a way to reduce obesity‐associated disparities in breast cancer mortality.
Paraneoplastic neuromuscular disorders
Authors: Sharp Lydia , Vernino Steven
Published: November 2012

Introduction: Paraneoplastic neurological disorders are rare autoimmune conditions that can affect any part of the nervous system, including the peripheral nervous system. These disorders are associated with certain types of cancer, and the peripheral nervous system dysfunction often precedes the symptoms from the cancer itself. Methods: This investigation was undertaken as a topic review. Conclusions: Learning to recognize paraneoplastic neuromuscular disorders, the associated antibodies and their implications, and the appropriate screening modalities can, in some cases, lead to an earlier diagnosis of cancer. Eliminating the cancer, if present, and immunomodulation can potentially improve the symptoms and clinical outcome. Muscle Nerve, 2012
High‐throughput RNA sequencing of a formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded autopsy lung tissue sample from the 1918 influenza pandemic
Authors: Xiao Yong‐Li , Kash John C , Beres Stephen B , Sheng Zong‐Mei , Musser James M , Taubenberger Jeffery K
Published: November 2012

Most biopsy and autopsy tissues are formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded (FFPE), but this process leads to RNA degradation that limits gene expression analysis. The RNA genome of the 1918 pandemic influenza virus was previously determined in a 9‐year effort by overlapping RT‐PCR from post‐mortem samples. Here, the full genome of the 1918 virus at 3000× coverage was determined in one high‐throughput sequencing run of a library derived from total RNA of a 1918 FFPE sample after duplex‐specific nuclease treatments. Bacterial sequences associated with secondary bacterial pneumonias were also detected. Host transcripts were well represented in the library. Compared to a 2009 pandemic influenza virus FFPE post‐mortem library, the 1918 sample showed significant enrichment for host defence and cell death response genes, concordant with prior animal studies. This methodological approach should assist in the analysis of FFPE tissue samples isolated over the past century from a variety of diseases.
A review of oral glucose tolerance tests at the Borders General Hospital
Authors: Chandy Edward , Rolph Natalie , O'Donnell John , Scott Jacqui , Wilson Justin , Herlihy Olive
Published: November 2012

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is increasing in prevalence and is associated with increasing obesity and reduced physical activity. Currently, the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is used to detect diabetes and impaired glucose tolerance in those with impaired fasting glycaemia as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The results of all OGTTs performed in the Scottish Borders in 2009 were reviewed and a database constructed tabulating the results and the indication for performing the test. All patients diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus were excluded. A total of 874 OGTTs were reviewed.

Twenty percent (171) of the OGTTs performed were prompted by a fasting glucose between 6.1–6.9mmol/L, or impaired fasting glycaemia (IFG). A further 20% (177) of tests were prompted by a previous diagnosis of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) or IFG, and 60% (526) were prompted for other reasons (glycosuria, investigation of reactive hypoglycaemia, family history of diabetes, random plasma glucose, inappropriate fasting glucose). Of all the OGTTs performed only 39.8% were indicated by WHO criteria and 60% of all tests performed were not done under standard WHO conditions.

This review highlights the significant number of OGTTs being performed in the community that are not adhering to current recommendations or standards. It also raises the question of the most appropriate screening tool for the diagnosis of diabetes. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
Pregnancy outcome in women with pregestational diabetes mellitus at a district general hospital in Australia
Authors: Basu Abhijit , Parghi Sneha
Published: November 2012

The global incidence of pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM) is on the increase. Pregnancy outcome in these women is much worse compared to those without diabetes, from higher rates of miscarriage, congenital malformations and perinatal mortality. This small audit is a retrospective case note analysis of women with PGDM birthing over 12 months at a health facility in Australia serving a high‐risk and migrant multicultural population.

The local prevalence of PGDM was high (0.63%). A large number (56.5%) of the 23 women whose case notes were analysed were older (>30 years) and, of these, 77% were non‐Caucasians. Six women were pregnant for the first time. Many (69%) were on preconception folate supplementation. Data on satisfactory pre‐pregnancy glycaemic control (HbA1c > 6.1% [43mmol/mol]) were found in two women and, though HbA1c was >7.1% (54mmol/mol)‐ in some, HbA1c readings in all three trimesters were not identified for each woman. Nine women used metformin and insulin was prescribed in the vast majority (82.6%). Overall, vaginal birth rate was 43% which was even higher (58.8%) among those who attempted vaginal birth, seemingly higher than national figures. Mean gestation at delivery was 37 weeks with four macrosomic (>4.5kg) babies. There was one stillbirth and the neonatal morbidities were in keeping with average. Breastfeeding rates were compatible with the baby‐friendly status of the hospital.

Following this audit, the provision of antenatal care for this high‐risk pregnancy group has been changed in order to improve the quality of care. This is due for re‐audit in due course. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
Liraglutide‐induced acute kidney injury
Authors: Narayana S Koppa , Talab SK , Elrishi MA
Published: November 2012

Type 2 diabetes is a progressive disease characterised by insulin resistance and pancreatic beta‐cell dysfunction. It eventually leads to insulin deficiency and hyperglycaemia.

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) is an incretin hormone playing a role in glucose homeostasis which is rapidly degraded and eliminated, because of a short half‐life. Liraglutide is an acylated GLP‐1 analogue with a prolonged half‐life. It has a plasma half‐life of 13 hours after subcutaneous administration. The side effects reported with liraglutide are gastrointestinal: mainly nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and heartburn. These effects are more frequent when starting on treatment and usually stop with persistent treatment with liraglutide.

We present two type 2 diabetes patients who developed renal impairment after liraglutide therapy that reversed to normal after stopping the drug and adequate hydration. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons.
Quantitative proteomics analysis of BMS‐214662 effects on CD34 positive cells from chronic myeloid leukaemia patients
Authors: Balabanov Stefan , Evans Caroline A. , Abraham Sheela A. , Pellicano Francesca , Copland Mhairi , Walker Michael J. , Whetton Anthony D. , Holyoake Tessa L.
Published: November 2012

Chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) arises in a haemopoietic stem cell and is driven by the Bcr‐Abl oncoprotein. Abl kinase inhibitors (protein tyrosine kinase inhibitors) represent standard treatment for CML and induce remission in the majority of patients with early disease, however these drugs do not target leukaemic stem cells (LSCs) effectively, thus preventing cure. Previously, we identified the farnesyl transferase inhibitor BMS‐214662 as a selective inducer of apoptosis in LSCs of CML patients relative to normal controls; however, the mechanism underlying LSC‐specific apoptosis remains unclear. To identify pathways involved in the favourable effects of BMS‐214662 in CML, we employed a proteomic approach (based on iTRAQ) to analyse changes in protein expression in response to drug treatment in the nuclear and cytoplasmic fractions of CD34+ CML cells. The study identified 88 proteins as altered after drug treatment, which included proteins known to be involved in nucleic acid metabolism, oncogenesis, developmental processes and intracellular protein trafficking. We found that expression of Ebp1, a negative regulator of proliferation, was upregulated in the nucleus of BMS‐214662‐treated cells. Furthermore, proteins showing altered levels in the cytosol, such as histones, were predominantly derived from the nucleus and BMS‐214662 affected expression levels of nuclear pore complex proteins. Validation of key facets of these observations suggests that drug‐induced alterations in protein localisation, potentially via loss of nuclear membrane integrity, contributes to the LSC specificity of BMS‐214662, possibly via Ran proteins as targets.
A guide for integration of proteomic data standards into laboratory workflows
Authors: Medina‐Aunon J. Alberto , Krishna Ritesh , Ghali Fawaz , Albar Juan P. , Jones Andrew J.
Published: November 2012

The development of the HUPO‐Proteomics Standards Initiative standard data formats and Minimum Information About a Proteomics Experiment guidelines facilitate coordination within the scientific community. The data standards provide a framework to exchange and share data regardless of the source instrument or software. Nevertheless there remains a view that Proteomics Standards Initiative standards are challenging to use and integrate into routine laboratory pipelines. In this article, we review the tools available for integrating the different data standards and building compliant software. These tools are focused on a range of different data types and support different scenarios, intended for software developers or end users, allowing the standards to be used in a straightforward manner.
Secretomes: The fungal strike force
Authors: Girard Vincent , Dieryckx Cindy , Job Claudette , Job Dominique
Published: November 2012

Microorganisms, although being very diverse because they comprise prokaryotic organisms such as bacteria or eukaryotic organisms such as fungi, all share an essential exodigester function. The consequence is their essential need to have a secretome adapted to their environment. The selection pressure exerted by environmental constraints led to the emergence of species with varying complexity in terms of composition of their secretomes. This review on fungal secretomes highlights the extraordinary variability among these organisms, even within the same species, and hence the absolute necessity to fully characterize all their components in the aims of understanding the fundamental mechanisms responsible for secretome plasticity and developing applications notably toward a better control of diseases caused by these pathogens.