bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Anatomy of the Dog Soft Palate. II. Histological Evaluation of the Caudal Soft Palate in Brachycephalic Breeds With Grade I Brachycephalic Airway Obstructive Syndrome
Authors: Pichetto Michela , Arrighi Silvana , Roccabianca Paola , Romussi Stefano
Published: June 2011

In brachycephalic dogs, the skull bone shortening is not paralleled by a decreased development of soft tissues. Relatively longer soft palate is one of the main factors contributing to pharyngeal narrowing during normal respiratory activity of these dog breeds, which are frequent carriers of the brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome (BAOS), which affects most part of them during their postnatal life. No histological studies assessing the morphology and the normal tissue composition of the soft palate in brachycephalic dogs are available, neither has ever been determined whether the elongated soft palate is a primary or secondary event. Aim of this study was to describe the morphology of the caudal soft palate in brachycephalic dogs with Grade I BAOS to identify potential features possibly favoring the pathogenesis of BAOS. Specimens from brachycephalic dogs (N = 11) that underwent preventive surgery were collected from surgery, processed for histology, and examined at six transversal levels. The brachycephalic soft palates showed peculiar features such as thickened superficial epithelium, extensive oedema of the connective tissue, and mucous gland hyperplasia. Several muscular alterations were evidenced in addition. The results of this investigation add to the general knowledge of the anatomy of soft palate in the canine species and establish baseline information on the morphological basis of the soft palate thickening in brachycephalic dogs. Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glutamate Microinjected in the Posterodorsal Medial Amygdala Induces Subtle Increase in the Consumption of a Three‐Choice Macronutrient Self‐Selection Diet in Male Rats
Authors: Rosa Carolina Böettge , Goularte Jéferson F. , Trindade Nathália A. , De Oliveira Alexandre P. , Rasia‐Filho Alberto A.
Published: June 2011

Previous studies have involved the “posterodorsal” amygdaloid area with the control of food intake and the development of obesity in rats. Within this wide region, the posterodorsal medial amygdala (MePD) has connections with specific hypothalamic nuclei that increase feeding behavior and modulate energy balance. Glutamate is the major brain excitatory neurotransmitter, remarkably enhances centrally mediated food consumption, and is abundantly found in the MePD. Here, it was studied the effects of saline (0.3 μL) and glutamate (45 nM or 45 mM/0.3 μL) directly microinjected in the MePD of adult male rats on the consumption of a three‐choice (high‐carbohydrate, high‐protein, or high‐lipid) macronutrient selective diet. The rat adaptation to the experimental procedures and its body weight gain were continuously evaluated. Control data for all groups and results following microinjections were obtained after a fasting protocol. Feeding behavior was evaluated during the subsequent 2‐hr period of free access to the selective diets. Both doses of glutamate microinjected in the MePD did not lead to a higher percentage of animals consuming any of the different diets (P > 0.05), although glutamate 45 mM induced a higher consumption of the high‐carbohydrate diet when compared with presurgery control values (P < 0.01). Interestingly, present data indicate that glutamate in the male MePD induces only a subtle modification in the feeding behavior and suggest that large electrolytic lesions of the “posterodorsal” amygdaloid region might have affected other regions to alter drastically meal size consumption in rats. Anat Rec, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Parasitization by Macrocentrus cingulum (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) influences expression of prophenoloxidase in Asian corn borer Ostrinia furnacalis
Authors: Feng Congjing , Huang Jianhua , Song Qisheng , Stanley David , Lü Wenjing , Zhang Yong , Huang Yongping
Published: June 2011

A prophenoloxidase (PPO) cDNA (OfPPO) was cloned from the Asian corn borer Ostrinia furnacalis. Sequence analysis revealed a full length transcript of the OfPPO cDNA with 2,686 bp, containing a 2,079 bp open reading frame (ORF), a 73‐bp 5′‐untranslated region, and a 534‐bp 3′‐untranslated region with a poly(A) signal. The ORF encodes a 693‐amino acid polypeptide, containing two distinct copper‐binding regions, a plausible thiol ester site, two proteolytic activation sites, and a conserved C‐terminal region, but lacks a signal peptide sequence. Expression of the OfPPO transcript in the plasma, hemocytes, fat body and midgut was inhibited by Macrocentrus cingulum at 4 h post‐parasitization (pp). In situ hybridization analysis showed that the hemocytes, especially the oenocytoids, hybridized strongly with the DNA probes of the OfPPO gene. No signal was detected in the cuticular epithelium or fat body of the parasitized larvae. Colloidal gold particles were used to visualize the PPO by immunoelectron microscopy. The time course study revealed a decrease in the labeling of the OfPPO at 4, 6, 8, 12, and 1 day pp in the larval integument and midgut parasitized by M. cingulum. We infer from time course studies of OfPPO gene expression and PO enzymatic activity that OfPPO in the integument is released from hemocytes and that the OfPPO expression was influenced at the transcriptional, translational, and then the post‐translational level by parasitization challenge. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Anatomy comic strips
Authors: Park Jin Seo , Kim Dae Hyun , Chung Min Suk
Published: June 2011

Comics are powerful visual messages that convey immediate visceral meaning in ways that conventional texts often cannot. This article's authors created comic strips to teach anatomy more interestingly and effectively. Four‐frame comic strips were conceptualized from a set of anatomy‐related humorous stories gathered from the authors' collective imagination. The comics were drawn on paper and then recreated with digital graphics software. More than 500 comic strips have been drawn and labeled in Korean language, and some of them have been translated into English. All comic strips can be viewed on the Department of Anatomy homepage at the Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea. The comic strips were written and drawn by experienced anatomists, and responses from viewers have generally been favorable. These anatomy comic strips, designed to help students learn the complexities of anatomy in a straightforward and humorous way, are expected to be improved further by the authors and other interested anatomists. Anat Sci Educ, 2011. © 2011 American Association of Anatomists.
Guaranteed‐cost fuzzy controller design for a self‐sustaining bicycle with practical constraints
Authors: Chen Ying‐Jen , Wang Wen‐June , Chang Chung‐Lung
Published: June 2011

This study presents a guaranteed‐cost fuzzy controller for a self‐sustaining bicycle. First, the nonlinear dynamics of the bicycle are exactly transformed into a T‐S fuzzy system with model uncertainty. The guaranteed‐cost fuzzy controller is then designed for the transformed T‐S fuzzy system. For practical considerations, the input/state constraints are also satisfied in the design. The main contribution of this study is the guaranteed‐cost control design for a T‐S fuzzy system with model uncertainty and input/state constraints. Finally, simulation results show the validity of the proposed controller design method.

Copyright © 2011 John Wiley and Sons Asia Pte Ltd and Chinese Automatic Control Society
Sentinel lymph node biopsy and survival in elderly patients with cutaneous melanoma
Authors: Koskivuo I , Hernberg M , Vihinen P , Virolainen S , Talve L , Seppänen M , Vahlberg T , Jahkola T
Published: June 2011

Background

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB) is a widely adopted staging procedure in patients with cutaneous melanoma. The benefits of SNB have not been evaluated thoroughly in older age groups.

Methods

This was a two-centre retrospective observational study of patients with melanoma aged at least 70 years undergoing SNB.

Results

A total of 423 patients were included. SNB was successful in 405 patients (95·7 per cent), of whom 88 (21·7 per cent) had sentinel node metastasis. During a median follow-up of 2·5 years, recurrence developed in 80 patients (18·9 per cent). Nodal recurrence developed in eight sentinel node-negative patients, giving a false-negative rate of 8·3 per cent, a sensitivity of 91·7 per cent and an overall diagnostic accuracy of 98·0 per cent. A total of 46 patients (10·9 per cent) died from melanoma and 42 (9·9 per cent) from other causes. At 5 years, the relapse-free survival rate was 80·0 per cent in sentinel node-negative patients and 39 per cent in node-positive patients; cancer-specific survival rates were 88·6 per cent and 46 per cent respectively (P < 0·001). In multivariable analysis, sentinel node metastasis (P < 0·001), a Breslow thickness of at least 2·0 mm (P = 0·007) and presence of ulceration (P = 0·012) were independent prognostic factors for cancer-specific survival.

Conclusion

SNB is a feasible and accurate technique for detecting nodal metastases in older patients with melanoma. Sentinel node status is the most important predictor of cancer-specific outcome in the elderly.
Diverse protective roles of the actin cytoskeleton during oxidative stress
Authors: Farah Michelle E. , Sirotkin Vladimir , Haarer Brian , Kakhniashvili David , Amberg David C.
Published: June 2011

Actin oxidation is known to result in changes in cytoskeleton organization and dynamics. Actin oxidation is clinically relevant since it occurs in the erythrocytes of sickle cell patients and may be the direct cause of the lack of morphological plasticity observed in irreversibly sickled red blood cells (ISCs). During episodes of crisis, ISCs accumulate C284‐C373 intramolecularly disulfide bonded actin, which reduces actin filament dynamics. Actin cysteines 284 and 373 (285 and 374 in yeast) are conserved, suggesting that they play an important functional role. We have been investigating the physiological roles of these cysteines using the model eukaryote Saccharomyces cerevisiae in response to oxidative stress load. During acute oxidative stress, all of the F‐actin in wild‐type cells collapses into a few puncta that we call oxidation‐induced actin bodies (OABs). In contrast, during acute oxidative stress the actin cytoskeleton in Cys‐to‐Ala actin mutants remains polarized longer, OABs are slower to form, and the cells recover more slowly than wild‐type cells, suggesting that the OABs play a protective role. Live cell imaging revealed that OABs are large, immobile structures that contain actin‐binding proteins and that can form by the fusion of actin cortical patches. We propose that actin's C285 and C374 may help to protect the cell from oxidative stress arising from normal oxidative metabolism and contribute to the cell's general adaptive response to oxidative stress. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fluorine‐Mediated Crystallization of Silicon in Plasma‐Enhanced CVD
Authors: Lim Cheolhyun , Yanagida Takafumi , Hanna Junichi
Published: June 2011

Fluorine mediated crystal silicon thin films in plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition were grown using a Si2H6 and SiF4 gas mixture without an intentional hydrogen dilution. The crystal growth took place at the temperatures above 400°C, and both crystallinity and growth rate were increased with an addition of SiF4. Optical emission spectroscopy reveals that addition of SiF4 changes the major precursor from SiH3 to SiHnFm (n+m≤3), and provides an abundant atomic fluorine ambient. These results indicate that contribution of atomic hydrogen is not indispensable for the crystallization, and atomic fluorine can be an alternative to atomic hydrogen.
Confocal backscattering‐based detection of leukemic cells in flowing blood samples
Authors: Greiner Cherry , Hunter Martin , Rius Francisca , Huang Peter , Georgakoudi Irene
Published: June 2011

The prognostic value of assessing minimal residual disease (MRD) in leukemia has been established with advancements in flow cytometry and PCR. Nonetheless, these techniques are limited by high equipment costs, complex, and costly cell processing and the need for highly trained personnel. Here, we demonstrate the potential of exploiting differences in the relative intensities of backscattered light at three wavelengths to detect the presence of leukemic cells in samples containing varying mixtures of white blood cells (WBCs) and leukemic cells flowing through microfluidic channels. Using 405, 488, and 633 nm illumination, we identify distinct light scattering intensity distributions for Nalm‐6 leukemic cells, normal mononuclear (PBMC) and polymorphonuclear (PMN) white blood cells and red blood cells. We exploit these differences to develop cell classification algorithms, whose performance is evaluated based on simultaneous acquisition of light scattering and fluorescence flow cytometry data. When this algorithm is used prospectively for the analysis of samples consisting of mixtures of PBMCs and leukemic cells, we achieve an average specificity and sensitivity of leukemic cell detection of 99.6 and 45.2%, respectively. When we consider samples that include leukemic cells along with PMNs and PBMCs, which can be acquired using a simple red blood cell lysis step following venipuncture, the specificity and sensitivity of the approach decreases to 91.6 and 39.5%, respectively. On the basis of the performance of these algorithms, we estimate that 42 or 71 μL of blood would be adequate to confirm the presence of leukemia at an 80% power level in samples containing 0.01% leukemia to either PBMCs or PBMCs and PMNs, respectively. Therefore, light scattering‐based flow cytometry in a microfluidic platform could provide a low cost, highly portable, minimally invasive approach for detection and monitoring of leukemic patients. This could offer significant improvements especially for pediatric patients and for patients in developing countries. © 2011 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Cell‐cycle distribution of different cell compartments in normal versus reactive bone marrow: A frame of reference for the study of dysplastic hematopoiesis
Authors: Matarraz Sergio , Fernandez Carlos , Albors Manuel , Teodosio Cristina , López Antonio , Jara‐Acevedo María , Cervero Carlos , Caballero Gonzalo , Gutierrez Oliver , Orfao Alberto
Published: June 2011

Limited information is currently available about the proliferation activity and cell‐cycle distribution of different bone marrow (BM) cell subsets defined according to their lineage and maturation stage in normal versus cytopenia‐associated reactive BM samples. Here, we report a three‐color flow cytometry approach to investigate the cell‐cycle distribution of different BM cell compartments—CD34+ hematopoietic progenitor and precursor cells (HPC), maturing neutrophils and monocytic cells, mature lymphocytes, eosinophils, and nucleated red blood cell precursors (NRBC)—from normal (n = 47) versus cytopenia‐associated reactive (n = 47) BM samples. Highly similar proliferation profiles were detected in normal versus reactive BM, with a higher proliferation index (PI) for the more immature CD34+ HPC, CD11b− maturing neutrophils and NRBC versus other BM cell compartments. The only differences observed between normal and reactive BM were restricted to the more mature (CD13hi/CD11b+) bands/neutrophils and to monocytic cells, which showed an increased PI (0.9% ± 0.8% vs. 0.6% ± 0.5% and 6 ± 3.6 vs. 4.6 ± 4.5, respectively) at the expense of a lower PI of CD34+ HPC in reactive conditions. Of note, bands/mature neutrophils and mature lymphocytes showed either residual numbers or absence of S + G2/M‐phase cells in both normal and reactive BM. Our results suggest that a slight shift of proliferation from the early precursors to the more mature granulomonocytic compartment occurs in reactive BM, which could reflect an attempt of the hematopoietic system to rapidly produce functional neutrophils and monocytes, at the expense of a lower expansion of the minor compartments of CD34+ HPC. © 2011 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Generation of the tamoxifen‐inducible DBH‐Cre transgenic mouse line DBH‐CT
Authors: Stubbusch Jutta , Majdazari Afsaneh , Schmidt Mirko , Schütz Günther , Deller Thomas , Rohrer Hermann
Published: June 2011

We generated transgenic mice bearing a tamoxifen‐dependent Cre recombinase expressed under the control of the dopamine‐β‐hydroxylase promoter. By crossing to the ROSA26 reporter mice we show that tamoxifen‐induced Cre recombinase in adult mice specifically activates β‐galactosidase expression in differentiated noradrenergic neurons of the central and peripheral nervous system. Tamoxifen application in adult mice did not induce β‐galactosidase activity in parasympathetic neurons that transiently express DBH during development. Thus, this transgenic mouse line represents a valuable tool to study gene function in mature noradrenergic neurons by conditional inactivation. genesis 49:935–941, 2011. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Genetics of sweet taste preferences
Authors: Bachmanov Alexander A , Bosak Natalia P , Floriano Wely B , Inoue Masashi , Li Xia , Lin Cailu , Murovets Vladimir O , Reed Danielle R , Zolotarev Vasily A , Beauchamp Gary K
Published: June 2011

Sweet taste is a powerful factor influencing food acceptance. There is considerable variation in sweet taste perception and preferences within and among species. Although learning and homeostatic mechanisms contribute to this variation in sweet taste, much of it is genetically determined. Recent studies have shown that variation in the T1R genes contributes to within‐ and between‐species differences in sweet taste. In addition, our ongoing studies using the mouse model demonstrate that a significant portion of variation in sweetener preferences depends on genes that are not involved in peripheral taste processing. These genes are likely involved in central mechanisms of sweet taste processing, reward and/or motivation. Genetic variation in sweet taste not only influences food choice and intake, but is also associated with proclivity to drink alcohol. Both peripheral and central mechanisms of sweet taste underlie correlation between sweet‐liking and alcohol consumption in animal models and humans. All these data illustrate complex genetics of sweet taste preferences and its impact on human nutrition and health. Identification of genes responsible for within‐ and between‐species variation in sweet taste can provide tools to better control food acceptance in humans and other animals. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outcomes after thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy
Authors: Gupta Prateek K. , Smith Russell B. , Gupta Himani , Forse R. Armour , Fang Xiang , Lydiatt William M.
Published: June 2011

Background

Previous reports on postoperative outcomes following thyroid and parathyroid surgery are limited by relatively small sample size. We report 30‐day outcomes following thyroid and parathyroid surgery and analyze factors affecting length of stay (LOS) and postoperative adverse events (AEs).

Methods

The multicenter, prospective, National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) datasets (2007/2008) were used. Multivariable logistic regression and analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) were performed.

Results

Patients undergoing thyroidectomy, parathyroidectomy, or both were identified (n = 13,380, 6154, 1535, respectively). Thirty‐day mortality was 0.08%, 0.16%, and 0.2%, respectively; 30‐day morbidity was 3.50%, 3.02%, and 4.04%, respectively. Mean LOS values were 1.1 ± 1.4, 1.1 ± 2.1, and 1.4 ± 3.1 days, respectively. Congestive heart failure, dependent functional status, dialysis dependence, and chronic corticosteroid use were significantly associated with increased LOS and postoperative AE.

Conclusions

Morbidity and mortality rates following thyroid and parathyroid surgery are low. These data could be used by third‐party interests, and surgeons should be aware of them to ensure their outcomes are in the national norm. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012.
Cellular (FLICE) like inhibitory protein (cFLIP) expression in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma identifies a poor prognostic subset, but fails to predict the molecular subtype
Authors: Harris Jemima , Ibrahim Hazem , Amen Furrat , Karadimitris Anastasios , Naresh Kikkeri N , Macdonald Donald H
Published: June 2011

Immunohistochemistry can sub‐classify diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) into germinal centre B‐cell like (GCB) and non‐GCB subtypes. The latter consists predominately of the activated B‐cell like subgroup in which nuclear factor kappa‐B activation is its characteristic. Expression of cellular caspase 8 (FLICE)‐like inhibitory protein (cFLIP), a caspase 8 homologue, is regulated by nuclear factor kappa‐B signalling, and it is the main inhibitor of Fas ligand activated apoptosis. To determine if cFLIP expression was confined to non‐GCB subtype, we studied 66 cases of DLBCL. cFLIP expression showed no significant correlation to DLBCL subtypes (GCB or non‐GCB) but was associated with a worse clinical outcome. For cFLIP positive and negative patients, the five‐year event free survival was 20 and 31%, respectively (p = 0.049), and the five‐year overall survival was 20 and 57%, respectively (p = 0.041). Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Learning from peers in signaling game experiments
Authors: Liu Xiaodong , Kagel John H. , Lee Lung‐Fei
Published: June 2011

We investigate peer group effects in laboratory experiments based on Milgrom and Roberts' (1982, Econometrica 50: 443–459) entry limit pricing game. We generalize Heckman's (1981, in Structural Analysis of Discrete Data with Econometric Applications. MIT Press: Cambridge, MA) dynamic discrete‐choice panel data models by introducing time‐lagged social interactions, using the unbiased GHK simulator to implement the computationally cumbersome maximum likelihood estimation. We find that subjects' decisions are significantly influenced by past decisions of peers on several dimensions, including potential entrants' choices and strategic play of like‐type monopolists. The proposed model and estimation method may be applicable to other experiments where peer group effects are likely to play an important role. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A novel quercetin analogue from a medicinal plant promotes peak bone mass achievement and bone healing after injury and exerts an anabolic effect on osteoporotic bone: The role of aryl hydrocarbon receptor as a mediator of osteogenic action
Authors: Sharan Kunal , Mishra Jay Sharan , Swarnkar Gaurav , Siddiqui Jawed Akhtar , Khan Kainat , Kumari Rashmi , Rawat Preeti , Maurya Rakesh , Sanyal Sabyasachi , Chattopadhyay Naibedya
Published: June 2011

We recently reported that extracts made from the stem bark of Ulmus wallichiana promoted peak bone mass achievement in growing rats and preserved trabecular bone mass and cortical bone strength in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Further, 6-C-β-D-glucopyranosyl-(2S,3S)-(+)-3',4',5,7-tetrahydroxyflavanol (GTDF), a novel flavonol-C-glucoside isolated from the extracts, had a nonestrogenic bone-sparing effect on OVX rats. Here we studied the effects of GTDF on osteoblast function and its mode of action and in vivo osteogenic effect. GTDF stimulated osteoblast proliferation, survival, and differentiation but had no effect on osteoclastic or adipocytic differentiation. In cultured osteoblasts, GTDF transactivated the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Activation of AhR mediated the stimulatory effect of GTDF on osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. Furthermore, GTDF stimulated cAMP production, which mediated osteogenic gene expression. GTDF treatments given to 1- to 2-day-old rats or adult rats increased the mRNA levels of AhR target genes in calvaria or bone marrow stromal cells. In growing female rats, GTDF promoted parameters of peak bone accrual in the appendicular skeleton, including increased longitudinal growth, bone mineral density, bone-formation rate (BFR), cortical deposition, and bone strength. GTDF promoted the process of providing newly generated bone to fill drill holes in the femurs of both estrogen-sufficient and -deficient rats. In osteopenic OVX rats, GTDF increased BFR and significantly restored trabecular bone compared with the ovaries-intact group. Together our data suggest that GTDF stimulates osteoblast growth and differentiation via the AhR and promotes modeling-directed bone accrual, accelerates bone healing after injury, and exerts anabolic effects on osteopenic rats likely by a direct stimulatory effect on osteoprogenitors. Based on these preclinical data, clinical evaluation of GTDF as a potential bone anabolic agent is warranted. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Association of the α2δ1 subunit with Cav3.2 enhances membrane expression and regulates mechanically induced ATP release in MLO-Y4 osteocytes
Authors: Thompson William R , Majid Amber S , Czymmek Kirk J , Ruff Albert L , García Jesús , Duncan Randall L , Farach-Carson Mary C
Published: June 2011

Voltage-sensitive calcium channels (VSCCs) mediate signaling events in bone cells in response to mechanical loading. Osteoblasts predominantly express L-type VSCCs composed of the α1 pore-forming subunit and several auxiliary subunits. Osteocytes, in contrast, express T-type VSCCs and a relatively small amount of L-type α1 subunits. Auxiliary VSCC subunits have several functions, including modulating gating kinetics, trafficking of the channel, and phosphorylation events. The influence of the α2δ auxiliary subunit on T-type VSCCs and the physiologic consequences of that association are incompletely understood and have yet to be investigated in bone. In this study we postulated that the auxiliary α2δ subunit of the VSCC complex modulates mechanically regulated ATP release in osteocytes via its association with the T-type Cav3.2 (α1H) subunit. We demonstrated by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunostaining that MLO-Y4 osteocyte-like cells express the T-type Cav3.2 (α1H) subunit more abundantly than the L-type Cav1.2 (α1C) subunit. We also demonstrated that the α2δ1 subunit, previously described as an L-type auxiliary subunit, complexes with the T-type Cav3.2 (α1H) subunit in MLO-Y4 cells. Interestingly, siRNA-mediated knockdown of α2δ1 completely abrogated ATP release in response to membrane stretch in MLO-Y4 cells. Additionally, knockdown of the α2δ1 subunit resulted in reduced ERK1/2 activation. Together these data demonstrate a functional VSCC complex. Immunocytochemistry following α2δ1 knockdown showed decreased membrane localization of Cav3.2 (α1H) at the plasma membrane, suggesting that the diminished ATP release and ERK1/2 activation in response to membrane stretch resulted from a lack of Cav3.2 (α1H) at the cell membrane. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
A single infusion of zoledronic acid produces sustained remissions in paget disease: Data to 6.5 years
Authors: Reid Ian R , Lyles Kenneth , Su Guoqin , Brown Jacques P , Walsh John P , del Pino-Montes Javier , Miller Paul D , Fraser William D , Cafoncelli Susan , Bucci-Rechtweg Christina , Hosking David J
Published: June 2011

Two trials have shown that a single 5-mg infusion of zoledronic acid achieves much higher response rates in Paget disease of bone than risedronate. The duration of this effect is unknown. We have conducted an open follow-up of responders from the two trials (152 originally treated with zoledronic acid, 115 with risedronate) out to 6.5 years without further intervention. Endpoints were times to relapse (ie, return of serum total alkaline phosphatase activity to within 20% of the pretreatment value) or loss of response (response = normalization of alkaline phosphatase or 75% or greater reduction in its excess). Bone turnover markers were lower in the zoledronic acid group throughout follow-up, with mean alkaline phosphatase (ALP) remaining within the reference range in these patients, whereas the mean in the risedronate group was above normal from 1 year. Relapse rates were substantially greater in the risedronate group (23 of 115, 20%) than in those treated with zoledronic acid (1 of 152, 0.7%, p < .001), and loss of response occurred in 19 (12.5%) zoledronic acid patients compared with 71 (62%) risedronate patients (p < .0001). Risk ratios for relapse and loss of response in zoledronic acid patients were 0.02 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.00–0.18] and 0.12 (95% CI 0.07–0.19), respectively. Changes from baseline in quality of life, assessed using SF-36 scores, were more positive in the zoledronic acid group across the follow-up period (p = .01). Bone markers at 6 months were predictive of response duration. These data demonstrate an unprecedented duration of remission of Paget disease following treatment with zoledronic acid, accompanied by an improved quality of life. © 2011 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Aromatase is expressed and active in the rainbow trout oocyte during final oocyte maturation
Authors: Gohin Maella , Bodinier Pascal , Fostier Alexis , Chesnel Franck , Bobe Julien
Published: June 2011

While it is generally well accepted that the ovarian follicular sites of estradiol‐17β (E2) synthesis are restricted to somatic cells, the possible contribution of the germinal compartment has received little or no attention in teleosts. In order to demonstrate the expression of ovarian aromatase in the oocyte, cyp19a1a mRNA was studied in ovarian follicles by in situ hybridization. In addition, the expression of cyp19a1a was studied in both somatic and germinal compartments of the ovarian follicle in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) during final oocyte maturation (i.e., maturational competence acquisition and subsequent meiosis resumption) by real‐time PCR. The enzymatic activity of ovarian aromatase was also studied in both somatic and germinal compartments of the ovarian follicle. Finally, E2 levels were monitored in follicle‐enclosed oocytes throughout the pre‐ovulatory period. We were able to demonstrate a significant ovarian aromatase expression and activity in the late vitellogenic oocyte. Furthermore, a dramatic decrease in aromatase expression and activity occurs in the oocyte during late oogenesis, concomitantly with the trend observed in surrounding follicular layers. We also report an unexpected increase of E2 levels in the oocyte during the pre‐ovulatory period. To our knowledge, these observations are reported for the first time in any teleost species. Together, our data support the hypothesis of the participation of the germinal compartment in follicular estrogen synthesis and a biological role of E2 during oocyte and/or early embryo development. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:510–518, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved in vitro development of cloned bovine embryos using S‐adenosylhomocysteine, a non‐toxic epigenetic modifying reagent
Authors: Jafari Shahram , Hosseini Morteza S. , Hajian Mahdi , Forouzanfar Mohsen , Jafarpour Farnoosh , Abedi Parvaneh , Ostadhosseini Somayyeh , Abbasi Hassan , Gourabi Hamid , Shahverdi Abdol H. , Dizaj Ahmad Vosough Taghi , Anjomshoaa Maryam , Haron Wahid , Noorshariza Noor , Yakub Halimhatoon , Nasr‐Esfahani Mohammad H.
Published: June 2011

In this study, fibroblast cells were stably transfected with mouse POU5F1 promoter‐driven enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) to investigate the effect of S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH), the reversible non‐toxic inhibitor of DNA‐methyltransferases (DNMTs), at different intervals post‐fusion on in vitro development of cloned bovine embryos. Treatment with SAH for 12 hr resulted in 54.6 ± 7.7% blastocyst production, which was significantly greater than in vitro fertilized embryos (IVF: 37.2 ± 2.7%), cloned embryos treated with SAH for 72 hr (31.0 ± 7.6%), and control cloned embryos (34.6 ± 3.6%). The fluorescence intensities of the EGFP‐POU5F1 reporter gene at all intervals of SAH treatment, except of 72 hr, were significantly higher than control somatic cell nuclear transfers (SCNT) embryos. The intensity of DNA‐methylation in cloned embryos treated with SAH for 48 hr was similar to that of IVF embryos, and was significantly lower than the other SCNT groups. The levels of H3K9 acetylation in all SCNT groups were significantly lower than IVF embryos. Real‐time PCR analysis of gene expression revealed significantly higher expression of POU5F1 in cloned versus IVF blastocysts. Neither embryo production method (SCNT vs. IVF) nor the SAH treatment interval affected expression of the BCL2 gene. Cloned embryos at all intervals of SAH treatment, except for 24 hr, had significantly increased VEGF transcript compared to IVF and control SCNT embryos. It was suggested that the time interval of DNMT inhibition may have important consequences on different in vitro features of bovine SCNT, and the improving effects of DNMT inhibition on developmental competency of cloned embryos are restricted to a specific period of time preceding de novo methylation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 78:576–584, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electrospun nanofiber mats coating—new route to flame retardancy
Authors: Gallo E. , Fan Z. , Schartel B. , Greiner A.
Published: June 2011

A novel route toward halogen‐free fire retardancy of polymers through innovative surface coating is described. Nanofiber mats based on polyimide are deposited on PA66 through electrospinning. Scanning electron microscopy is used to characterize the nanofibers. Cone calorimeter tests were performed to evaluate the fire performance. Because of their low thermal conductivity, electrospun nanofiber mats act not only as sacrificial layers but also as a protective surface that delays ignition. The effect is influenced by the fiber diameters and the imidization. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attachment style and schema as predictors of social functioning in youth with borderline features
Authors: Hulbert Carol A. , Jennings Tarni C. , Jackson Henry J. , Chanen Andrew M.
Published: June 2011

Theorized associations between adverse attachment experience, maladaptive core schema (EMS) and the interpersonal dysfunction seen as characteristic of borderline personality disorder were investigated in two groups of outpatient youth aged between 15 and 25 years. Patients with sub‐syndromal (meeting at least 3 DSM‐IV criteria) and full syndrome BPD (n = 30) and patients with major depressive disorder completed self‐report measures of adult attachment style, EMS and interpersonal functioning. Results for both groups indicated a level of disadvantage for each of the domains assessed. Contrary to prediction, mean scores for the two groups did not differ for anxious or avoidant attachment style or for 13 or the 15 EMS assessed. BPD participants scored at a significantly higher level for the Mistrust/abuse and Entitlement schema. Consistent with results reported for adult samples, the BDP group acknowledged a predominantly anxious attachment style, a wide range of EMS and poor interpersonal functioning. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses undertaken for each EMS domain in turn indicated that an anxious attachment style and endorsement of the Social Isolation EMS were the strongest predictors of social functioning. Against, prediction, there was limited evidence supporting the specificity of theorized relationships between BPD diagnosis and attachment style and prominence of Disconnection and Rejection domain EMS. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evaluation and optimization of IgY Spin Column technology in the depletion of abundant proteins from human serum
Authors: Corrigan Laura , Jefferies Caroline , Clive Lee Thomas , Daly Jacqueline
Published: June 2011

Serum depletion strategies are commonly implemented in order to remove abundant proteins, increasing the number of proteins detected in a biomarker study. The IgY spin columns used in this study bind 12 and 14 primate proteins, respectively. 1‐D SDS‐PAGE and 2‐DE revealed a suboptimal performance of the IgY spin columns. However, modification of the manufacturer's protocol, subjecting samples to two rounds of depletion, improved the number of proteins resolved by 2‐DE. With alteration of the manufacturer protocol, the Seppro® IgY14 spin column can produce depleted serum with an increased number of spots resolved by 2‐DE compared to untreated serum.
Immune proteomics of Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Bröker Barbara M. , van Belkum Alex
Published: June 2011

Immune proteomics is an increasingly powerful tool for the investigation of the adaptive immune response to natural encounters between micro‐organisms and their hosts. The versatile species Staphylococcus aureus serves to illustrate how these techniques can be employed to appreciate the complexity and diversity of the host–pathogen interactions in unprecedented detail and completeness. Such knowledge is important for the development of effective vaccines as well as informative diagnostic and novel therapeutic tools. From high‐resolution immune proteome studies, general rules underlying the human adaptive immune response to S. aureus colonization and infection are beginning to emerge against a background of extreme diversity: S. aureus carriers develop immune memory for their colonizing strain, but even non‐carriers are frequently exposed to S. aureus, resulting in specific antibodies. During bacterial invasion, immune‐competent individuals rapidly mount an antibody response to a large panel of S. aureus antigens. However, every patient starts from a personal baseline antibody profile reflecting his or her history of encounters with S. aureus.
Site‐specific analysis of bacterial phosphoproteomes
Authors: Macek Boris , Mijakovic Ivan
Published: June 2011

Protein phosphorylation on serine, threonine and tyrosine is established as an important regulatory modification in bacteria. A growing number of studies employing mass spectrometry‐based proteomics report large protein phosphorylation datasets, providing precise evidence for in‐vivo phosphorylation that is especially suitable for functional follow‐up. Here, we provide an overview of the strategies currently used in bacterial phosphoproteomics, with an emphasis on gel‐free proteomics and approaches that enable global detection of phosphorylation sites in bacterial proteins. The proteomics technology has matured sufficiently to permit routine characterization of phosphoproteomes and phosphopeptides with high sensitivity; we argue that the next challenge in the field will be the large‐scale detection of protein kinase and phosphatase substrates and their integration into regulatory networks of the bacterial cell.
Structural analysis of the N‐terminal fragment of the antiangiogenic protein endostatin: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Monteiro Torres Pedro Henrique , Limaverde Soares Costa Sousa Gabriel , Pascutti Pedro Geraldo
Published: June 2011

Endostatin is a potent antiangiogenic protein derived from the noncollagenous domain 1 (NC1) of collagen XVIII. The mechanism by which endostatin exerts its antiangiogenic effect is still incompletely understood. It has been shown that the 27 amino acid N‐terminal fragment of murine endostatin has antitumor, antimigration, and antipermeability activities comparable to the full soluble protein. To understand how this peptide can exert such elaborate function, we performed structural analysis using molecular dynamics to evaluate the behavior of this fragment in aqueous environment. Here, we show that the N‐terminal peptide of murine endostatin is able to assume a well‐defined structure, folding into a zinc‐dependent β‐hairpin conformation. Analyzing the folding mechanism, we were able to understand why the N‐terminal peptide of human endostatin with the same length failed to acquire a stable conformation. Conversely, we were able to predict the successful folding of the R4Q mutant and of a shorter form of the human peptide with 25 residues. Finally, we show that the β‐hairpin conformation assumed by the zinc‐bound peptide of murine endostatin has a high structural similarity with fragments of another family of angiogenesis inhibitors: the integrin‐binding portion of the NC1 domain of collagen IV. Indeed, our docking simulations show that arresten, canstatin, and the endostatin peptide bind to the same spot of αVβ3 integrin, suggesting similar interactions via a common binding site on this receptor. Proteins 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the cut‐off phenomenon for the transitivity of randomly generated subgroups
Authors: Galligo André , Miclo Laurent
Published: June 2011

Consider K ≥ 2 independent copies of the random walk on the symmetric group SN starting from the identity and generated by the products of either independent uniform transpositions or independent uniform neighbor transpositions. At any time
\documentclass{article} \usepackage{amsmath,amsfonts}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document} $n\in \mathbb{N}$ \end{document}, let Gn be the subgroup of SN generated by the K positions of the chains. In the uniform transposition model, we prove that there is a cut‐off phenomenon at time N ln(N)/(2K) for the non‐existence of fixed point of Gn and for the transitivity of Gn, thus showing that these properties occur before the chains have reached equilibrium. In the uniform neighbor transposition model, a transition for the non‐existence of a fixed point of Gn appears at time of order \documentclass{article} \usepackage{amsmath,amsfonts}\pagestyle{empty}\begin{document} $N^{1+\frac{2}{K}}$ \end{document}
(at least for K ≥ 3), but there is no cut‐off phenomenon. In the latter model, we recover a cut‐off phenomenon for the non‐existence of a fixed point at a time proportional to N by allowing the number K to be proportional to ln(N). The main tools of the proofs are spectral analysis and coupling techniques. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 2012
Expression pattern of Mical‐1 in the temporal neocortex of patients with intractable temporal epilepsy and pilocarpine‐induced rat model
Authors: Luo Jing , Xu Yali , Zhu Qiong , Zhao Fenghua , Zhang Ying , Peng Xi , Wang Wei , Wang Xuefeng
Published: June 2011

Mical‐1 is a novel F‐actin‐disassembly factor that is critical in actin reorganization. It provides a molecular conduit through which actin reorganizes‐a hallmark of cell morphological changes, including axon navigation. However, whether Mical‐1 is involved in the epileptogenesis remains unknown. Here, we investigate Mical‐1 expression pattern in patients with intractable temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) and pilocarpine‐induced rat model. We used double‐labeled immunoflurescence, immunohistochemistry, and Western blotting to assess the location and expression of Mical‐1 in temporal neocortex of patients with intractable TLE, and the expression pattern of Mical‐1 at different time point in the hippocampus and temporal lobe cortex of the pilocarpine‐induced rat model. Double‐labeled immunofluorescence showed that Mical‐1 was coexpressed with neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) in the cytoplasm of neurons in temporal neocortex of patients with TLE and hippocampus of rat model. Faint and scattered immunoreactivity for Mical‐1 in the neuron of temporal neocortex in TLE group, but strong immunoreactivity for Mical‐1 was shown in control subjects. To quantitatively evaluate the Mical‐1 immunoreactivity, we measured the mean optical density (OD) of Mical‐1. In the hippocampus of pilocarpine‐induced rat model, the OD values transient increased at 6 h after seizure then decreased from 1 day to 14 days, and returned to a subnormal level at 60 days. The lowest level of Mical‐1 expression occurred at 14 days after seizure in the hippocampus. In the temporal lobe cortex of rat model, the OD values decreased at all time point after kindling compared to the normal group. Furthermore, our Western blot analysis confirmed these expression patterns of Mical‐1 from latent stage to chronic stage. Our results indicate that in patients with TLE and pilocarpine‐induced rat model, the expression of Mical‐1 were followed a downtrend from the latent stage to chronic stage after seizure evoke. Thus, as an effect factor participated in F‐actin disassemble, Mical‐1 may associate with inner pathophysiological modulation in epilepsy. Synapse, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wellness as Fairness
Authors: Prilleltensky Isaac
Published: June 2011

I argue that distinct conditions of justice lead to diverse wellness outcomes through a series of psychosocial processes. Optimal conditions of justice, suboptimal conditions of justice, vulnerable conditions of injustice, and persisting conditions of injustice lead to thriving, coping, confronting, and suffering, respectively. The processes that mediate between optimal conditions of justice and thriving include the promotion of responsive conditions, the prevention of threats, individual pursuit, and avoidance of comparisons. The mechanisms that mediate between suboptimal conditions of justice and coping include resilience, adaptation, compensation, and downward comparisons. Critical experiences, critical consciousness, critical action, and righteous comparisons mediate between vulnerable conditions of injustice and confrontation with the system. Oppression, internalization, helplessness, and upward comparisons mediate between persisting conditions of injustice and suffering. These psychosocial processes operate within and across personal, interpersonal, organizational and community contexts. Different types of justice are hypothesized to influence well‐being within each context. Intrapersonal injustice operates at the personal level, whereas distributive, procedural, relational, and developmental justice impact interpersonal well‐being. At the organizational level, distributive, procedural, relational and informational justice influence well‐being. Finally, at the community level, distributive, procedural, retributive, and cultural justice support community wellness. Data from a variety of sources support the suggested connections between justice and well‐being.
Where is China Heading? An Analysis of China's Foreign Policy and how it Affects the Western World
Authors: Heinemeyer Martin H.
Published: June 2011

China's growing international importance puzzles not only political scientists but also journalists, politicians and others. Apparently, it is possible that an autocratic regime which has opened itself only on the economic level can still survive. The new foreign policy of China affects the liberal democratic Western world in several ways. China, with impressive economic growth, questions the US dollar as a stable reserve currency and increases its military power. It establishes Confucius Institutes to promote its culture and it allocates more development aid than the World Bank. This article looks at these developments from a critical perspective and reveals that China's strategy faces serious problems: lack of human rights, religious freedom, demographic renewal and protection of intellectual property. It concludes that the current Chinese reality of authoritarian capitalism is neither holistic nor sustainable and that development in China takes place only with enormous social and economic costs. It argues that although China claims to be a new global actor, it cannot (yet) fulfil this role in a multipolar world order.
The Secret of Western Success: Cheap Paper and the Freedom to Use It
Authors: Turk Žiga
Published: June 2011

Over the past several centuries, the West has emerged as a global leader economically, militarily, scientifically and technologically. This article explores why it has been so successful in the past in order to determine where its strengths lie at a time when the West's advantage is melting away. This article will argue that the West was the only civilisation that took advantage of the communications revolution involving cheap paper and the printing press in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, and could do so because of its values and ethics. Compared to other parts of the world, the West offered more freedom to its peoples, and its societies were the most vertically mobile. This is an important lesson for today when we are in the midst of the digital and Internet communications revolution and another wave of globalisation, and when the whole world seems to be adopting Western values. It is important not to forget where these values originated.