bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A carbon dwarf wearing a Necklace: first proof of accretion in a post-common-envelope binary central star of a planetary nebula with jets
Authors: Miszalski Brent , Boffin Henri M. J. , Corradi Romano L. M.
Published: October 2012

The formation of collimated outflows or jets in planetary nebulae (PNe) is not well understood. There is no evidence for active accretion discs in PNe, making it difficult to decide which of the several proposed jet formation scenarios may be correct. A handful of wide binary central stars of PNe are known to have accreted carbon and slow neutron capture (s-process) enhanced material, the immediate progenitors of barium stars; however, no close binary analogues are known to have passed through a common-envelope (CE) phase. Here we present spectroscopy of the Necklace taken near light-curve minimum that for the first time reveals a carbon-rich (C/O > 1) companion, a carbon dwarf, in a post-CE central star. As unevolved stars do not produce carbon, the chemical enhancement of the secondary can only be explained by accretion from the primary. Accretion most likely happened prior to the CE phase via wind accretion as not enough material can be accreted during the short CE phase. The pair of jets in the Necklace, which are observed to be older than the PN, are therefore likely to have been launched from an accretion disc around the companion during this early accretion phase. This discovery adds significant weight to the emerging scenario that jets in post-CE PNe are primarily launched by an accretion disc around a main-sequence companion before the CE phase.
Experimental infection and natural contact exposure of ferrets with canine influenza virus (H3N2)
Authors: Lee Yu-Na , Lee Dong-Hun , Park Jae-Keun , Yuk Seong-Su , Kwon Jung-Hoon , Nahm Sang-Soep , Lee Joong-Bok , Park Seung-Yong , Choi In-Soo , Song Chang-Seon
Published: October 2012

Epidemics of H3N2 canine influenza virus (CIV) among dogs in South Korea and southern China have raised concern over the potential for zoonotic transmission of these viruses. Here, we analysed the pathogenesis and transmissibility of H3N2 CIV in ferret. H3N2 CIV replicated efficiently in the respiratory system of inoculated ferrets and caused acute necrotizing bronchioalveolitis and non-suppurative encephalitis. Transmission of H3N2 CIV was detected in three of six ferrets co-housed with inoculated ferrets, but no viruses were detected in second-contact ferrets. These findings show that H3N2 CIV has the capacity to replicate in and transmit partially among co-housed ferrets and underscore the need for continued public health surveillance.
Felodipine–diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane–water (1/1/1)
Authors: Solanko Katarzyna A. , Surov Artem O. , Perlovich German L. , Bauer-Brandl Annette , Bond Andrew D.
Published: October 2012

The title compound, C18H19Cl2NO4·C6H12N2·H2O, is a cocrystal hydrate containing the active pharmaceutical ingredient felodipine and diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (DABCO). The DABCO and water molecules are linked through O—H...N hydrogen bonds into chains around 21screw axes, while the felodipine molecules form N—H...O hydrogen bonds to the water molecules. The felodipine molecules adopt centrosymmetric back-to-back arrangements that are similar to those present in all of its four reported polymorphs. The dichlorophenyl rings also form π-stacking interactions. The inclusion of water molecules in the cocrystal, rather than formation of N—H...N hydrogen bonds between felodipine and DABCO, may be associated with steric hindrance that would arise between DABCO and the methyl groups of felodipine if they were directly involved in hydrogen bonding.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of the high molecular weight ketoacyl reductase FabG4 complexed with NADH. Corrigendum
Authors: Dutta Debajyoti , Bhattacharyya Sudipta , Das Amit Kumar
Published: October 2012

In the article by Duttaet al.[(2012)Acta Cryst.F68, 786–789] two citations were given erroneously. These are now corrected.
Cloning, expression, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic analysis of aspartyl aminopeptidase from theapeBgene ofPseudomonas aeruginosa. Retraction
Authors: Natarajan Sampath , Mathews Rita
Published: October 2012

The article by Natarajan & Mathews [(2012)Acta Cryst.F68, 207–210] is retracted.
From urothelial signalling to experiencing a sensation related to the urinary bladder
Authors: Birder L. , Wyndaele J.‐J.
Published: October 2012

The mechanisms underlying bladder sensation and the way we experience sensations during normal voiding and in pathology is complex and not well understood. During storage and emptying, mechanical changes occurring in number of cell types within the bladder wall (i.e. the uroepithelium and bladder afferents) can have a major influence on our sensory systems. In this review, we discuss bladder sensation with a focus on coding events in the periphery.
The gene expression signature associated with TP53 mutation/deletion in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia is dominated by the under‐expression of TP53 and other genes on chromosome 17p
Authors: Lin Ke , Lane Brian , Carter Anthony , Johnson Gillian G. , Onwuazor Obiageli , Oates Melanie , Zenz Thorsten , Stilgenbauer Stephan , Atherton Mark , Douglas Angela , Ebrahimi Bahram , Sherrington Paul D. , Pettitt Andrew R.
Published: October 2012

In chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL), TP53 mutation and deletion are strongly associated with one another and with adverse clinical outcome. Mutant TP53 protein typically accumulates to high levels and has been reported to have transcriptional regulatory activity distinct from that of wild‐type TP53. To investigate whether such an effect is relevant to CLL, carefully balanced primary CLL samples with or without TP53 mutation/deletion were compared for their gene expression profiles using high‐density DNA microarrays. Ninety‐six and eight differentially expressed genes were identified, respectively, using two alternative statistical approaches with different stringencies. None of the differentially expressed genes were known to be regulated by mutant TP53, and only four of the 67 under‐expressed genes were known transcriptional targets of wild‐type TP53. Significantly, both approaches showed that gene under‐expression was the dominant feature of TP53‐mutant CLL samples. Furthermore, a disproportionate number of the under‐expressed genes were located on chromosome 17p, the most significant being TP53 itself. Together, these results indicate that any transcriptional regulatory effects of mutant TP53 in CLL cells are overshadowed by the under‐expression of co‐deleted TP53 and other genes on chromosome 17p. Our findings have implications for emerging therapeutic strategies that target mutant TP53.
Highly Predictive Ligand‐based Pharmacophore and Homology Models of ABHD6
Authors: Bowman Anna L. , Makriyannis Alexandros
Published: October 2012

α/β‐Hydrolase domain‐containing 6 (ABHD6) represents a potentially attractive therapeutic target for indirectly potentiating 2‐arachidonoylglycerol signaling; however, the enzyme is currently largely uncharacterized. Here, we describe a five element, ligand‐based pharmacophore model along with a refined homology model of ABHD6. Following a virtual screen of a modest database, both the pharmacophore and homology models were found to be highly predictive, preferentially identifying ABHD6 inhibitors over drug‐like non‐inhibitors. The models yield insight into the features required for optimal ligand binding to ABHD6 and the atomic structure of the binding site. In combination, the two models should be very helpful not only in high‐throughput virtual screening, but also in lead optimization, and will facilitate the development of novel, selective ABHD6 inhibitors as potential drugs.
Domain Differences in Early Social Interactions
Authors: Dahl Audun , Campos Joseph J.
Published: October 2012

Different social experiences help children develop distinctions between domains of norms. This study investigated whether mothers respond differently to moral, prudential, and pragmatic norms during the 2nd year, a period that precedes the time when children are able to make explicit distinctions between these norms. Sixty mothers of infants between 11 and 23 months were interviewed. Mothers' reports of their initial interventions, changes in intervention following noncompliance, and emotional reactions depended on normative domain. Initial interventions were less differentiated by domain for mothers of older than for mothers of younger children. These findings suggest that children have social experiences in the 2nd year that are associated with distinctions among normative domains.
Academic Achievement Trajectories of Homeless and Highly Mobile Students: Resilience in the Context of Chronic and Acute Risk
Authors: Cutuli J. J. , Desjardins Christopher David , Herbers Janette E. , Long Jeffrey D. , Heistad David , Chan Chi‐Keung , Hinz Elizabeth , Masten Ann S.
Published: October 2012

Analyses examined academic achievement data across third through eighth grades (N = 26,474), comparing students identified as homeless or highly mobile (HHM) with other students in the federal free meal program (FM), reduced price meals (RM), or neither (General). Achievement was lower as a function of rising risk status (General > RM > FM > HHM). Achievement gaps appeared stable or widened between HHM students and lower risk groups. Math and reading achievement were lower, and growth in math was slower in years of HHM identification, suggesting acute consequences of residential instability. Nonetheless, 45% of HHM students scored within or above the average range, suggesting academic resilience. Results underscore the need for research on risk and resilience processes among HHM students to address achievement disparities.
Similar reference intervals for total testosterone in healthy young and elderly men: results from the Odense Androgen Study
Authors: Frost M. , Wraae K. , Nielsen T. L. , Hougaard D. M. , Brixen K. , Hagen C. , Andersen M.
Published: October 2012

Context

Ageing in men is associated with changes in levels of sex hormones.

Objective

To evaluate differences in sex hormones in young and elderly men and the significance of comorbidity and fat mass on sex hormones in elderly men.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Patients

Seven hundred and eighty‐three men aged 20–29 years and 600 men aged 60–74 years randomly recruited from the background population.

Measurements

Sex hormones and sex hormone‐binding globulin (SHBG) were measured, and reference intervals were determined in healthy individuals in both groups and in elderly men stratified according to whether they were obese or lean (waist circumference ≥102 cm).

Results

Sex hormones were lower and SHBG higher in elderly men compared with the young cohort. Lower cut‐offs for total testosterone (TT) in healthy, young and elderly men were similar [Lower cut‐off (95% CI): Young: 11·7 (11·2–12·1) vs elderly: 11·2 (10·3–12·1) nmol/l], but lower and higher cut‐offs of bioavailable testosterone (BT) and free testosterone (FT) were higher in young men. Higher levels of androgens were found in healthy elderly men compared with those with a chronic disease or obesity. Androgens were inversely associated with central fat mass (CFM), whereas SHBG was inversely and directly associated with CFM and lower extremity fat mass, respectively, in both young and elderly men.

Conclusion

Reference intervals for TT were comparable in healthy young and elderly men, but reference intervals for FT and BT were lower in elderly men due to higher levels of SHBG. Androgens and SHBG were lower in elderly men with chronic disease and inversely associated with CFM.
‘Kinship by design’ in England: reconfiguring adoption from Blair to the coalition
Authors: Kirton Derek
Published: October 2012

Using Ellen Herman's concept of ‘kinship by design’ (KBD), this paper analyses recent efforts to reform adoption in England, arguing that they represent an attempt to curtail the powers of adoption professionals and their established practices of assessing and responding to risk. Examining policy contexts and relevant research, the paper looks at various facets of contemporary KBD in England as they relate to adoptable children, the treatment of adopters, matching, support and systemic governance of adoption within a mixed economy. From this analysis, it is suggested that the evidence base for many of the reforms is limited and that in important respects represents a ‘manufactured crisis’ used to justify radical changes, which, in turn, pose significant risks to wider policy and practice in child welfare.
Efficacy of interventions to improve motor performance in children with developmental coordination disorder: a combined systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: SMITS‐ENGELSMAN BOUWIEN C M , BLANK RAINER , VAN DER KAAY ANNE‐CLAIRE , MOSTERD‐VAN DER MEIJS RIANNE , VLUGT‐VAN DEN BRAND ELLEN , POLATAJKO HELENE J , WILSON PETER H
Published: October 2012

Aim The aim of this study was to review systematically evidence about the efficacy of motor interventions for children with developmental coordination disorder (DCD), and to quantify treatment effects using meta‐analysis.

Method Included were all studies published between 1995 and 2011 that described a systematic review, (randomized) clinical trial, or crossover design about the effect of motor intervention in children with DCD. Studies were compared on four components: design, methodological quality, intervention components, and efficacy. Twenty‐six studies met the inclusion criteria for the review. Interventions were coded under four types: (1) task‐oriented intervention, (2) traditional physical therapy and occupational therapy, (3) process‐oriented therapies, and (4) chemical supplements. For the meta‐analysis, effect sizes were available for 20 studies and their magnitude (weighted Cohen’sd[dw]) was compared across training types.

Results The overall effect size across all intervention studies wasdw=0.56. A comparison between classes of intervention showed strong effects for task‐oriented intervention (dw=0.89) and physical and occupational therapies (dw=0.83), whereas that for process‐oriented intervention was weak (dw=0.12). Of the chemical supplements, treatment with methylphenidate was researched in three studies (dw=0.79) and supplementation of fatty acids plus vitamin E in one study (no effect). Thepost hoccomparison between treatment types showed that the effect size of the task‐oriented approach was significantly higher than the process‐oriented intervention (p=0.01) and comparison (p=0.006). No significant difference in the magnitude of effect size between traditional physical and occupational therapy approaches and any of the other interventions emerged.

Interpretation In general, intervention is shown to produce benefit for the motor performance of children with DCD, over and above no intervention. However, approaches from a task‐oriented perspective yield stronger effects. Process‐oriented approaches are not recommended for improving motor performance in DCD, whereas the evidence for chemical supplements for children with DCD is currently insufficient for a recommendation.
Metformin directly inhibits ghrelin secretion through AMP‐activated protein kinase in rat primary gastric cells
Authors: Gagnon J. , Sheppard E. , Anini Y.
Published: October 2012

The antidiabetic drug Metformin causes weight loss in both diabetic and non‐diabetic individuals. Metformin treatment is also associated with lower circulating levels of the orexigenic hormone ghrelin. To test whether Metformin directly affects ghrelin cells, rat primary stomach cells were treated with Metformin and the levels of ghrelin secretion, proghrelin gene expression and activation of adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) were examined. Metformin significantly reduced ghrelin secretion and proghrelin mRNA production and both these effects were blocked by co‐incubation with the AMPK inhibitor compound C. Furthermore, the AMPK activator 5‐amino‐1‐β‐D‐ribofuranosyl‐imidazole‐4‐carboxamide (AICAR) significantly inhibited ghrelin secretion. Additionally, ghrelin cells were shown to express AMPK. Finally, Metformin treatment caused a significant increase in the level of phosphorylated (active) AMPK. Our results show that Metformin directly inhibits stomach ghrelin production and secretion through AMPK. This reduction in ghrelin secretion may be one of the key components in Metformin's mechanism of weight loss.
Natural infection of Fraxinus excelsior seeds by Chalara fraxinea
Authors: Cleary M. R. , Arhipova N. , Gaitnieks T. , Stenlid J. , Vasaitis R.
Published: October 2012

The occurrence of Chalara fraxinea, the fungus responsible for dieback of European ash (Fraxinus excelsior), was investigated in the current and previous seed years collected from symptomatic trees in Latvia and Sweden using molecular techniques (DNA extraction, ITS‐PCR, Sanger sequencing). Molecular analysis of seeds revealed the presence of 30 different fungal taxa. Chalara fraxinea was detected in 8.3% of seeds tested from the current year originating from Latvia. The presence of C. fraxinea in seeds of F. excelsior is of great concern to phytosanitary protection authorities in countries outside the current zone of infestation.
Clonal heterogeneity of mantle cell lymphoma revealed by array comparative genomic hybridization
Authors: Liu Fang , Yoshida Noriaki , Suguro Miyuki , Kato Harumi , Karube Kennosuke , Arita Kotaro , Yamamoto Kiyoko , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Oshima Koichi , Seto Masao
Published: October 2012

Mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) is an aggressive B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) characterized by the translocation t(11;14)(q13;q32). This lymphoma exhibits a poor prognosis and remains incurable with standard chemotherapy approaches. Recently, we have shown that a majority of patients with acute‐type adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) have multiple subclones that were likely produced in lymph nodes. We investigated whether MCL has multiple subclones as identified in ATLL by high‐resolution oligo‐array comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). Eleven of 20 (55%) evaluable MCL cases had a log2 ratio imbalance, suggesting the existence of multiple subclones in MCL. Based on the proportion of every subclone relative to the main clone, we were able to speculate clonal evolution in each MCL case with multiple subclones. Our analysis gave new insights into the clonal heterogeneity quantitatively and accurately. Furthermore, genomic copy number alterations are not hierarchical events and not necessarily the initial or later events for cells to become MCL.
Case‐based approach for supporting strategy decision making
Authors: Surma Jerzy
Published: October 2012

The practice of strategy decision making proves that when the management board is strongly limited in its capacity to take rational actions, specifically in the context of great decision complexity and uncertainty, it is considered good practice to refer to experience through reasoning by analogy. In this paper, we would like to concentrate on supporting strategic decisions in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The complexity of analogy‐based reasoning has its roots in an attempt to solve new problems based on past cases from a different domain, while we will focus on case‐based approach for a single domain. Additionally, we have chosen case‐based reasoning as a suitable decision‐making paradigm because it is corresponds to managers’ decision‐making behaviour. We present the STRATEGOS case‐based reasoning system for supporting strategic decision making by SMEs management boards and then the system evaluation by the dozens of chief executive officers (CEOs) from SMEs is presented. The results of the survey are promising and show the remarkable correspondence of the proposed solution with expectations and strategic behaviour of CEOs.
Retinoic acid improves recovery after nephrectomy and decreases renal TGF‐β1 expression. Gender‐related effects
Authors: Delgadillo Dealmy , Barbier Olivier , Sierra Gerardo , Reyes Jose L.
Published: October 2012

End‐stage renal disease is a cause for death worldwide. Renal transplant is a therapeutic alternative, restricted by the scant number of donors. Function of the donor kidney is under risk of adverse circumstances such as fibrosis, where profibrotic effect of transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF‐β1) plays a key role. Efforts to diminish risks of damage in the remnant kidney of the donor are required. Vitamin A represents one alternative. It has beneficial effects on some nephropathies, mainly those related to oxidative stress. It also participates in normal intrauterine renal development. We studied the effect of all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA), active form of vitamin A, on postnephrectomy compensatory growth, in male or female rats. Compensatory growth and renal function were evaluated on four experimental groups: Control without treatment (CTL), ATRA‐treated intact rats (CTL + RA), nephrectomized rats (NFX), and ATRA‐treated nephrectomized rats (NFX + RA). We evaluated glomerular function (inulin clearance), tubular function (fractional excretions of sodium and potassium), and urinary flow. Renal mass was also estimated. In ATRA‐treated animals, compensatory growth was higher than in nephrectomized rats without treatment. Hyperfiltration after nephrectomy was less intense in ATRA‐treated female than in male rats. In tubular functions, effect of ATRA was more evident in female than in male rats. Glomerular expression of TGF‐β1 was lower in ATRA‐treated animals than in controls. ATRA reduced intensity and duration of compensatory changes after nephrectomy, improving recovery.
Involvement of transcription factor Ets‐1 in the expression of the α3 integrin subunit gene
Authors: Kamoshida Go , Matsuda Ayaka , Katabami Kouji , Kato Takumi , Mizuno Hiromi , Sekine Wakana , Oku Teruaki , Itoh Saotomo , Tsuiji Makoto , Hattori Yoshiyuki , Maitani Yoshie , Tsuji Tsutomu
Published: October 2012

The α3β1 integrin is an adhesion receptor for extracellular matrix proteins, and plays crucial roles in cell motility, proliferation, and differentiation. The aberrant expression of this adhesion molecule on tumor cells is frequently associated with their malignant behaviors. We previously reported that the Ets transcription factor‐binding consensus sequence 133 bp upstream of the mouse α3 integrin gene is an important element for its expression in various tumor cell lines. In the present study, we attempted to identify a transcription factor bound to the Ets‐consensus sequence, and found that Ets‐1 bound to this sequence in an electrophoretic mobility shift assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation assay, and pull‐down assay with a tandem repeat of the sequence as adsorbent. We next examined the role of Ets‐1 in α3 integrin gene expression by use of a luciferase assay with a reporter plasmid containing the 5′‐flanking region of the α3 integrin gene. Cotransfection of HEK293T cells with an Ets‐1 expression construct and the reporter plasmid increased luciferase activity. By contrast, transfection of HT1080 cells (high α3 integrin expresser) with a dominant‐negative mutant of Ets‐1 decreased luciferase activity. Overexpression of Ets‐1 in HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells (low α3 integrin expresser) upregulated α3 integrin expression as assessed by immunoprecipitation. Finally, the induction of α3 integrin gene expression in HepG2 cells after transforming growth factor‐β1 treatment was abrogated by the dominant‐negative mutant of Ets‐1. These results suggest that Ets‐1 is involved in transcriptional activation of the α3 integrin gene through its binding to the Ets‐consensus sequence at −133 bp.
Iron deficiency and fatigue in adolescent females with heavy menstrual bleeding
Authors: Wang W. , Bourgeois T. , Klima J. , Berlan E. D. , Fischer A. N. , O'Brien S. H.
Published: October 2012

Iron deficiency and fatigue are common problems in adolescent females. Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is associated with both iron deficiency and fatigue. The aim of this study was to define baseline ferritin values and fatigue symptoms in a population of young females with excessive menstrual blood loss, as compared to healthy controls. The study population included 11 to 17‐year‐old menstruating females presenting to an Adolescent Gynaecology Clinic, Menorrhagia Clinic or Sports Medicine clinic. To evaluate the degree and effects of menstrual blood loss, we utilized the Ruta Menorrhagia Severity Score. We investigated the symptoms of fatigue using the Fatigue Severity Scale. We evaluated possible predictors of ferritin level (age, body mass index, fatigue scores and Menorrhagia Severity Score) using generalized linear models. A total of 48 adolescents with HMB and 102 healthy adolescents completed the study. Iron deficiency and elevated fatigue scores were common findings in young women with HMB. Both fatigue severity scores and menorrhagia severity scores were significantly higher in young women with HMB as compared to healthy controls. In adolescents with HMB, 87.5% had ferritin levels ≤40 ng mL−1, and 29.2% had ferritin levels ≤15 ng mL−1. Our generalized linear models did not identify any significant univariate relationships between ferritin levels and patient age, body mass index, fatigue score or menorrhagia score. Iron deficiency and symptoms of fatigue are common findings in young women with HMB. Fatigue severity scores are significantly higher in young women with HMB as compared to healthy controls.
The physiological consequences of catch‐and‐release angling: perspectives on experimental design, interpretation, extrapolation and relevance to stakeholders
Authors: Cooke S. J. , Donaldson M. R. , O'connor C. M. , Raby G. D. , Arlinghaus R. , Danylchuk A. J. , Hanson K. C. , Hinch S. G. , Clark T. D. , Patterson D. A. , Suski C. D.
Published: October 2012

Over the past 20 years, there has been a dramatic increase in the use of physiological tools and experimental approaches for the study of the biological consequences of catch‐and‐release angling practices for fishes. Beyond simply documenting problems, physiological data are also being used to test and refine different strategies for handling fish such that stress is minimised and survival probability maximised, and in some cases, even for assessing and facilitating recovery post‐release. The inherent sensitivity of physiological processes means that nearly every study conducted has found some level of – unavoidable – physiological disturbance arising from recreational capture and subsequent release. An underlying tenet of catch‐and‐release studies that incorporate physiological tools is that a link exists between physiological status and fitness. In reality, finding such relationships has been elusive, with further extensions of individual‐level impacts to fish populations even more dubious. A focus of this article is to describe some of the challenges related to experimental design and interpretation that arise when using physiological tools for the study of the biological consequences of catch‐and‐release angling. Means of overcoming these challenges and the extrapolation of physiological data from individuals to the population level are discussed. The argument is presented that even if it is difficult to demonstrate strong links to mortality or other fitness measures, let alone population‐level impacts of catch‐and‐release, there remains merit in using physiological tools as objective indicators of fish welfare, which is an increasing concern in recreational fisheries. The overarching objective of this paper is to provide a balanced critique of the use of physiological approaches in catch‐and‐release science and of their role in providing meaningful information for anglers and managers.
Fell‐Muir lecture: connective tissue growth factor (CCN2) – a pernicious and pleiotropic player in the development of kidney fibrosis
Authors: Mason Roger M.
Published: October 2012

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF, CCN2) is a member of the CCN family of matricellular proteins. It interacts with many other proteins, including plasma membrane proteins, modulating cell function. It is expressed at low levels in normal adult kidney cells but is increased in kidney diseases, playing important roles in inflammation and in the development of glomerular and interstitial fibrosis in chronic disease. This review reports the evidence for its expression in human and animal models of chronic kidney disease and summarizes data showing that anti‐CTGF therapy can successfully attenuate fibrotic changes in several such models, suggesting that therapies targeting CTGF and events downstream of it in renal cells may be useful for the treatment of human kidney fibrosis. Connective tissue growth factor stimulates the development of fibrosis in the kidney in many ways including activating cells to increase extracellular matrix synthesis, inducing cell cycle arrest and hypertrophy, and prolonging survival of activated cells. The relationship between CTGF and the pro‐fibrotic factor TGFβ is examined and mechanisms by which CTGF promotes signalling by the latter are discussed. No specific cellular receptors for CTGF have been discovered but it interacts with and activates several plasma membrane proteins including low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein (LRP)‐1, LRP‐6, tropomyosin‐related kinase A, integrins and heparan sulphate proteoglycans. Intracellular signalling and downstream events triggered by such interactions are reviewed. Finally, the relationships between CTGF and several anti‐fibrotic factors, such as bone morphogenetic factor‐4 (BMP4), BMP7, hepatocyte growth factor, CCN3 and Oncostatin M, are discussed. These may determine whether injured tissue heals or progresses to fibrosis.
Modelling quality changes in Songpu mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio) fillets stored at chilled temperatures: comparison between Arrhenius model and log‐logistic model
Authors: Bao Yulong , Zhou Zhongyun , Lu Han , Luo Yongkang , Shen Huixing
Published: October 2012

To understand the quality changes in Songpu mirror carp (Cyprinus carpio) fillets during chilled storage, sensory score, total aerobic counts (TAC), total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N) and electrical conductivity (EC) of the fillets stored at 270, 273, 276, 282 and 288 K were investigated. Furthermore, both Arrhenius model and log‐logistic model were established to predict the quality changes. The high regression coefficients (R2 > 0.90) represented the acceptability of both Arrhenius model and log‐logistic model. Relative errors between predicted values and observed values were all within ±5% for models based on EC, within ± 25% for models based on TAC and TVB‐N (except the TVB‐N value on 9th and 15th day). The relative errors of sensory score were all within ±35% in the first 9 days. It is concluded that both Arrhenius model and log‐logistic model based on EC, TAC or TVB‐N can be applied in modelling quality changes in Songpu mirror carp fillets during storage within 270–288 K.
Transanal minimally invasive surgery: an initial experience
Authors: Slack Timothy , Wong Shing , Muhlmann Mark
Published: October 2012

Background

Transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) is a novel approach used for the resection of rectal lesions. The purpose of this study was to review our initial experience with TAMIS.

Methods

Between March 2012 and May 2012, we collected clinical data on patients who underwent the TAMIS procedure. This included patient demographics, tumour characteristics, operative technique, histological results and post‐operative outcomes.

Results

Three patients successfully underwent TAMIS resection of rectal lesions. All tumours were tubulovillous adenomas with high‐grade dysplasia, with one also having a small focus of adenocarcinoma. Clear margins were achieved in all cases. One case was complicated by a post‐operative bleed, requiring a return to theatre.

Conclusions

TAMIS is a feasible and cost‐effective alternative to transanal endoscopic microsurgery for resection of rectal lesions. It may have a shorter learning curve, especially for laparoscopic surgeons already proficient in single‐port procedures.
Clinical evaluations of cell‐free fetal DNA quantities in pre‐eclamptic pregnancies
Authors: Zeybek Yosun Görkem , Günel Tuba , Benian Ali , Aydınlı Kılıç , Kaleli Semih
Published: October 2012

Aim

Quantitative changes of cell‐free fetal DNA in maternal plasma as an indicator for impending pre‐eclampsia was reported in different studies. Cell‐free fetal nucleic acids can be detected in maternal circulation during pregnancy. Our aim was to determine the higher rate of fetal DNA levels in maternal blood in pre‐eclampsia compared to normal pregnancies and the clinical use of real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the Turkish population as a marker.

Material and Methods

According to their gestational ages, the plasma levels of 30 pre‐eclamptic women at 26–40 weeks of pregnancy were matched with 18 healthy pregnant women. Cell‐free fetal DNA levels in maternal plasma were compared using real‐time PCR technology. For the quantitative measurement of fetal DNA from maternal blood, the relative quantification PCR process was applied to all samples, using SRY and GAPDH genes. These patients were classified as pre‐eclamptic and control groups and were matched according to weeks of pregnancy.

Results

Free fetal DNA levels of 30 pre‐eclamptic patients were compared to healthy pregnant women and an average 3.06‐fold increase was observed. During the second trimester, free fetal DNA levels were 1.5 times higher in pre‐eclamptic patients. This increase was 3.5‐fold during the third trimester. The DNA increase of pre‐eclamptic patients was 4.1‐fold and 3.4‐fold during 29th–33rd and 34th–40th weeks, respectively.

Conclusions

Cell‐free fetal DNA in maternal blood could be used as a marker for identifying subjects at increased risk of developing pre‐eclampsia.
Positive correlation between serum levels of adiponectin and homocysteine in pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Khosrowbeygi Ali , Ahmadvand Hassan
Published: October 2012

Aim

The aims of the present study were to assess the correlation between homocysteine and adiponectin and the homocysteine‐to‐adiponectin ratio in pre‐eclampsia compared with normal pregnant women.

Materials and Methods

The study population consisted of 30 women with pre‐eclampsia and 30 normal pregnant women. Serum levels of total adiponectin and total homocysteine were assessed using commercially available enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay methods. Data are presented as median.

Results

Serum levels of total adiponectin correlated directly with total homocysteine in both pre‐eclampsia (r = 0.48, P = 0.01) and normal pregnancy (r = 0.68, P = 0.001). The homocysteine‐to‐adiponectin ratio was increased significantly in pre‐eclampsia compared with normal pregnancy (0.90 vs 0.70, P = 0.03). Compared with normal pregnancy, women with severe pre‐eclampsia showed significant increase in total adiponectin (14.29 vs 10.24, P = 0.01), total homocysteine (13.80 vs 7.25, P = 0.000) and homocysteine‐to‐adiponectin ratio (0.92 vs 0.70, P = 0.02). Women with mild pre‐eclampsia had higher values of total adiponectin (16.19 vs 10.24, P = 0.000) and total homocysteine (13.11 vs 7.25, P = 0.000) compared with normal pregnancy. No significant differences were observed between mild and severe pre‐eclampsia.

Conclusion

The present study showed a positive association between adiponectin and homocysteine in pre‐eclampsia. The homocysteine‐to‐adiponectin ratio may be an informative biomarker for the disease diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring.
Endometrial scratching to improve pregnancy rate in couples with unexplained subfertility: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gibreel Ahmed , Badawy Ahmed , El‐Refai Waleed , El‐Adawi Noha
Published: October 2012

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of endometrial scratching in women with unexplained infertility.

Material and Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in Mansoura University Teaching Hospital and a private practice setting. A total of 105 couples with unexplained infertility were randomly allocated into two groups: group A comprised 54 women who underwent endometrial scratching in the luteal phase of a spontaneous menstrual cycle; and group B included 51 women who underwent a placebo procedure. The main outcome measured was cumulative clinical pregnancy rate after 6 months and miscarriage rate.

Results

Clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the women experiencing endometrial biopsy than in the control group (25.9% and 9.8%, respectively, P = 0.04). There was no significant difference in miscarriage rate between pregnant women in the endometrial injury group and pregnant women in the control group (12.5% and 16.5%, respectively, P = 0.79).

Conclusions

Endometrial scratching may improve clinical pregnancy rates in couples with unexplained infertility. Adequately powered studies are mandated to confirm or refute the findings.
Incidental renal stones in potential live kidney donors: prevalence, assessment and donation, including role of ex vivo ureteroscopy
Authors: Olsburgh Jonathon , Thomas Kay , Wong Kathie , Bultitude Matthew , Glass Jonathan , Rottenberg Giles , Silas Lisa , Hilton Rachel , Koffman Geoff
Published: October 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Previously, donors with asymptomatic stones found incidentally on CT were not considered ideal donor candidates because of the presumed risk of morbidity to both the donor and recipient. Increasingly, studies show that these risks are low.

This study aims to evaluate the long‐term safety of using ex vivo ureteroscopy to remove the stones from the donor kidney on the bench before donation. Outcomes so far suggest that this technique can safely render a kidney stone‐free before transplantation. This has led to 20 more transplants in our institution than would otherwise be possible.

Objectives

To evaluate the prevalence of asymptomatic renal stones in our potential donor population.

To assess the safety and success of ex vivo ureteroscopy (ExURS) to remove stones from explanted donor kidneys before transplantation.

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis of 377 computed tomography (CT) angiograms of potential kidney donors between October 2004 and May 2007 to assess the prevalence of asymptomatic renal stones in our donor population.

Between October 2005 and October 2011, kidneys from suitable donors underwent ExURS. Stones were removed using basket extraction or were fragmented with holmium laser on bench before transplantation.

Immediate and long‐term complications of the transplanted recipients were recorded.

Donors were followed with yearly ultrasonography of the remaining kidney in addition to standard follow‐up protocol.

Results

Review of 377 CT angiograms between October 2004 to May 2007 showed a 5% prevalence of asymptomatic renal stones.

Out of 55 potential donors (19 identified between October 2004 to May 2007 and a further 36 identified since May 2007), 20 donors with stones proceeded to donation, with stone size ranging from 2 to 12 mm.

Of the patients, 17 proceeded to ExURS. Stones were removed in 10 patients; five with basket retrieval, four with laser fragmentation and one with both laser fragmentation and basket retrieval.

There were no early or late allograft stone‐related complications and no evidence of stones on follow‐up imaging at a mean (range) of 10 (1–24) months.

There has been no reported stone recurrence in any of the donors to date and no stone on ultrasonography of eight donors with >1‐year follow‐up (mean 26 months, range 12–49 months).

Conclusions

Asymptomatic renal stones are present in 5% of our donors.

ExURS can be safely used to remove stones in these kidneys before transplantation, without the risk of subjecting the donor to an additional stone‐removing procedure.

Continued long‐term follow‐up of donors and recipients is still required to ensure the safety of this approach.
Inclusive Britishness: A Multiculturalist Advance
Authors: Uberoi Varun , Modood Tariq
Published: October 2012

Scholars argue that policies of multiculturalism in different countries are in retreat or in question. Britain is often used as an example of this, and leading British politicians and commentators often criticise such a policy. Yet a long-held multiculturalist goal has been to make Britishness more inclusive and this is something leading politicians were until recently uncommitted to. We use interviews with politicians who have served in this government and the last, the measures they have introduced, their media contributions, speeches and policy documents, to show that they are now committed to this goal. At a time when a British policy of multiculturalism is said to be in retreat or in question we identify a multiculturalist advance and show that this raises a range of difficult questions about government approaches to ‘Britishness’.
Does John Henry Newman Have a Theo‐Drama?
Authors: McDermott Ryan
Published: October 2012

The essay surveys Newman's work in literary drama, from an early essay on Aristotle's Poetics to his adaptation of Roman comedies for production at the Oratory School, in order to approach his affinities with Hans Urs von Balthasar's theological dramatic theory. Newman does not find a Balthasarian theo‐drama via literary drama – perhaps because he was not properly exposed to medieval religious drama – but scattered dramatic analogies in his history writing suggest that he undertakes a theo‐drama in that genre. Von Balthasar and Newman employ dramatic analogies to reject chiliastic apocalyptic and foster ‘keromatic’ apocalyptic.
Thermotherapy to the facial region in and around the eyelids altered prefrontal hemodynamic responses and autonomic nervous activity during mental arithmetic
Authors: Takamoto Kouich , Hori Etsuro , Urakawa Susumu , Katayama Miho , Nagashima Yoshinao , Yada Yukihiro , Ono Taketoshi , Nishijo Hisao
Published: October 2012

To investigate neural mechanisms of local thermotherapy to reduce mental stress, participants were required to perform mental arithmetic after treatment by a heat‐ and steam‐generating sheet on the facial eyelid region while hemodynamic activity and ECGs were monitored. The results indicated that thermotherapy decreased hemodynamic activity in the anterior dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (aDMPFC) involved in sympathetic activity. Consistently, thermotherapy increased parasympathetic activity while it decreased sympathetic activity. Furthermore, thermotherapy increased hemodynamic activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) during mental arithmetic. These hemodynamic responses in the DLPFC during mental arithmetic were negatively correlated with that in the aDMPFC during thermotherapy. The results suggest that thermotherapy in the facial eyelid region is useful to ameliorate mental fatigue through its effects on the prefrontal cortex.
A method for modelling peat depth in blanket peatlands
Authors: Parry L. E. , Charman D. J. , Noades J. P. W.
Published: October 2012

Inventories of peat volume and carbon storage often include general values for peat depth, but more spatially explicit and accurate estimates are required if carbon management strategies are to be developed at scales appropriate for the management. This article presents a methodology for estimating peat depth for large blanket peat areas using field sampling and GIS modelling to map peat depth on Dartmoor in south‐west England. The study area was divided into carbon unit areas (CUAs) based on soil and vegetation. Approximately 1000 peat depth measurements were taken, each consisting of a mean (n = 5) from depths within a 32 m2 area. Sampling points were stratified according to CUA area and proportional extent of slope and elevation classes. Regression analyses were used to determine the relationships between slope, elevation and peat depth within each CUA. The strongest relationship was for blanket peat (r2 = 0.53), with weaker ones for areas where peat was shallow and depth was less variable. A digital elevation model was used in a GIS to model peat depths for the whole of Dartmoor. Results were tested against a data set of 200 peat depths on a 250 m grid covering 1325 ha. We conclude that peat depth can be modelled using easily available topographic data combined with well‐designed field sampling over larger spatial scales. The approach can result in accurate mapping of peat depth and carbon storage for blanket peatlands in the United Kingdom and perhaps also elsewhere.
Metabolic and hormonal responses to subcutaneous glucagon in healthy beagles
Authors: Zeugswetter Florian K. , Schornsteiner Elisa , Haimel Georg , Schwendenwein Ilse
Published: October 2012

Objective

To compare the effects of subcutaneous (SC) and intravenous (IV) glucagon on glucose concentrations, and insulin and cortisol secretion.

Design

Prospective randomized 3‐way crossover study.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Five healthy beagles.

Interventions

Diabetes mellitus and adrenal insufficiency were excluded by repeated glucose and fructosamine measurements, urinalysis, abdominal ultrasonography, and ACTH stimulation tests. Blood samples were collected before and after the SC and IV injection of 1 milligram (1 mg = 1 mL) commercially available synthetic glucagon and analyzed for insulin‐like immunoreactivity (insulin‐imr), glucose, ACTH and cortisol concentrations. The results were compared with those obtained after the SC injection of 1 mL saline (placebo). Measurements were performed over a period of up to 3 hours.

Measurements and Main Results

SC glucagon significantly increased glucose and insulin‐imr (P < 0.001 and 0.043, respectively). Peak glucose concentrations were observed after 20 minutes and were lower than after IV injection (mean ± SD: 6.5 ± 1.1 mmol/L versus 9.3 ± 0.8 mmol/L [117.1 ± 19.8 mg/dL versus 167.6 ± 14.4 mg/dL]; P = 0.001). The route of application had no significant effect on insulin‐imr (peak concentration: median [range]: 83.3 [13.9–312.5] pmol/L versus 194.5 [118.1–284.7] pmol/L [12 [2–45] μU/mL versus 28 [17–41] μU/mL; P = 0.151). SC glucagon did not increase cortisol or ACTH concentrations at any time point of observation (P > 0.05). Aside from somnolence, no adverse events were recorded.

Conclusions

SC glucagon has the potential to be used as a simple and safe test in diabetic animals, but is of little use in animals with suspected corticotrophic insufficiency. The hyperglycemic effects are significant, implying that the commercially available human emergency kit could be useful in the home treatment of canine hypoglycemic emergencies.