bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overlap of replication rounds disturbs the progression of replicating forks in a ribonucleotide reductase mutant of Escherichia coli
Authors: Salguero Israel , López Acedo Elena , Guzmán Elena C.
Published: April 2011

Ribonucleotide reductase (RNR) is the only enzyme specifically required for the synthesis of deoxyribonucleotides (dNTPs). Surprisingly,Escherichia colicells carrying thenrdA101allele, which codes for a thermosensitive RNR101, are able to replicate entire chromosomes at 42 °C under RNA or protein synthesis inhibition. Here we show that the RNR101 protein is unstable at 42 °C and that its degradation under restrictive conditions is prevented by the presence of rifampicin. Nevertheless, the mere stability of the RNR protein at 42 °C cannot explain the completion of chromosomal DNA replication in thenrdA101mutant. We found that inactivation of the DnaA protein by using severaldnaAtsalleles allows complete chromosome replication in the absence of rifampicin and suppresses the nucleoid segregation and cell division defects observed in thenrdA101mutant at 42 °C. As both inactivation of the DnaA protein and inhibition of RNA synthesis block the occurrence of new DNA initiations, the consequent decrease in the number of forks per chromosome could be related to those effects. In support of this notion, we found that avoiding multifork replication rounds by the presence of moderate extra copies ofdatAsequence increases the relative amount of DNA synthesis of thenrdA101mutant at 42 °C. We propose that a lower replication fork density results in an improvement of the progression of DNA replication, allowing replication of the entire chromosome at the restrictive temperature. The mechanism related to this effect is also discussed.
Characterization of the Porphyromonas gingivalis conjugative transposon CTnPg1: determination of the integration site and the genes essential for conjugal transfer
Authors: Naito Mariko , Sato Keiko , Shoji Mikio , Yukitake Hideharu , Ogura Yoshitoshi , Hayashi Tetsuya , Nakayama Koji
Published: April 2011

In our previous study, extensive genomic rearrangements were found in two strains of the Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium Porphyromonas (Por.) gingivalis, and most of these rearrangements were associated with mobile genetic elements such as insertion sequences and conjugative transposons (CTns). CTnPg1, identified in Por. gingivalis strain ATCC 33277, was the first complete CTn reported for the genus Porphyromonas. In the present study, we found that CTnPg1 can be transferred from strain ATCC 33277 to another Por. gingivalis strain, W83, at a frequency of 10−7 to 10−6. The excision of CTnPg1 from the chromosome in a donor cell depends on an integrase (Int; PGN_0094) encoded in CTnPg1, whereas CTnPg1 excision is independent of PGN_0084 (a DNA topoisomerase I homologue; Exc) encoded within CTnPg1 and recA (PGN_1057) on the donor chromosome. Intriguingly, however, the transfer of CTnPg1 between Por. gingivalis strains requires RecA function in the recipient. Sequencing analysis of CTnPg1-integrated sites on the chromosomes of transconjugants revealed that the consensus attachment (att) sequence is a 13 bp sequence, TTTTCNNNNAAAA. We further report that CTnPg1 is able to transfer to two other bacterial species, Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and Prevotella oralis. In addition, CTnPg1-like CTns are located in the genomes of other oral anaerobic bacteria, Porphyromonas endodontalis, Prevotella buccae and Prevotella intermedia, with the same consensus att sequence. These results suggest that CTns in the CTnPg1 family are widely distributed among oral anaerobic Gram-negative bacteria found in humans and play important roles in horizontal gene transfer among these bacteria.
The genome sequence of Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii W23: insights into speciation within the B. subtilis complex and into the history of B. subtilis genetics
Authors: Zeigler Daniel R.
Published: April 2011

The genome sequence of Bacillus subtilis subsp. spizizenii W23 has been determined. The sequence strongly suggests that W23 is a direct descendant of B. subtilis ATCC 6633. W23 shares a 3.6 Mb core genome with the intensively studied model organism B. subtilis subsp. subtilis 168, and gene order within this core has been strongly conserved. Additionally, the W23 genome has 157 accessory (that is, non-core) genome segments that are not found in 168, while the 168 genome has 141 segments not found in W23. The distribution of sequences similar to these accessory segments among other genomes of the B. subtilis species complex shows that those sequences having entered into the phylogeny of the complex more recently tend to be larger and more AT-rich than those having entered earlier. A simple model can account for these observations, in which parasitic or symbiotic DNAs are transferred into the genome and then are reduced in size and modified in base composition during speciation.
Identification of a Novel Gene,CIA6, Required for Normal Pyrenoid Formation inChlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Ma Yunbing , Pollock Steve V. , Xiao Ying , Cunnusamy Khrishen , Moroney James V.
Published: April 2011

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii possesses a CO2-concentrating mechanism (CCM) that allows the alga to grow at low CO2 concentrations. One common feature seen in photosynthetic organisms possessing a CCM is the tight packaging of Rubisco within the cell. In many eukaryotic algae, Rubisco is localized to the pyrenoid, an electron-dense structure within the chloroplast. In order to identify genes required for a functional CCM, insertional Bleomycin resistance (BleR) mutants were generated and screened for growth on minimal medium under high CO2 conditions (5% CO2 in air) but only slow or no growth under very low CO2 conditions (0.01% CO2 in air). One mutant identified from this screen was named cia6. Physiological studies established that cia6 grows poorly on low levels of CO2 and has an impaired ability to accumulate inorganic carbon. The inserted BleR disrupted a gene encoding a protein with sequence similarity to proteins containing SET domain methyltransferase, although experiments using overexpressed CIA6 failed to demonstrate the methyltransferase activity. Electron microscopy revealed that the pyrenoid of cia6 mutant cells is highly disorganized. Complementation of the mutant restored the pyrenoid, the ability to grow under low-CO2 conditions, and the ability to concentrate inorganic carbon. Quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction data from a low-CO2 induction time-course experiment demonstrated that the up-regulation of several CCM components is slower in cia6 compared with the wild type. This slow induction was further confirmed at the protein level using western blots. These results indicated that CIA6 is required for the formation of the pyrenoid and further supported the notion that the pyrenoid is required for a functional CCM in C. reinhardtii.
Incorporating climate change adaptation into national conservation assessments
Authors: GAME EDWARD T , LIPSETT‐MOORE GEOFFREY , SAXON EARL , PETERSON NATE , SHEPPARD STUART
Published: April 2011

The Convention on Biological Diversity requires that member nations establish protected area networks that are representative of the country's biodiversity. The identification of priority sites to achieve outstanding representation targets is typically accomplished through formal conservation assessments. However, representation in conservation assessments or gap analyses has largely been interpreted based on a static view of biodiversity. In a rapidly changing climate, the speed of changes in biodiversity distribution and abundance is causing us to rethink the viability of this approach. Here we describe three explicit strategies for climate change adaptation as part of national conservation assessments: conserving the geophysical stage, identifying and protecting climate refugia, and promoting cross‐environment connectivity. We demonstrate how these three approaches were integrated into a national terrestrial conservation assessment for Papua New Guinea, one of the most biodiverse countries on earth. Protected areas identified based on representing geophysical diversity were able to capture over 90% of the diversity in vegetation communities, suggesting they could help protect representative biodiversity regardless of changes in the distribution of species and communities. By including climate change refugia as part of the national conservation assessment, it was possible to substantially reduce the amount of environmental change expected to be experienced within protected areas, without increasing the overall cost of the protected area network. Explicitly considering environmental heterogeneity between adjacent areas resulted in protected area networks with over 40% more internal environmental connectivity. These three climate change adaptation strategies represent defensible ways to guide national conservation priority given the uncertainty that currently exists in our ability to predict climate changes and their impacts. Importantly, they are also consistent with data and expertise typically available during national conservation assessments, including in developing nations. This means that in the vast majority of countries, these strategies could be implemented immediately.
‘POP’! The mystery of a skeletal dysplasia vanishes thanks to exome sequencing
Authors: Sutton LM
Published: April 2011

Whole‐exome re‐sequencing in a family quartet identifies POP1 mutations as the cause of a novel skeletal dysplasia

Glazov et al. (2011)

PLoS Genetics 7(3):e1002027
Molecular testing in congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21α‐hydroxylase deficiency in the era of newborn screening
Authors: Sarafoglou K , Lorentz C P , Otten N , Oetting W S , Grebe S K G
Published: April 2011

Sarafoglou K, Lorentz CP, Otten N, Oetting WS, Grebe SKG. Molecular testing in congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21α‐hydroxylase deficiency in the era of newborn screening.

Newborn screening (NBS) identifies the majority of classical [salt‐wasting (SW) and simple‐virilizing (SV)] cases of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) due to 21α‐hydroxylase (21α‐OHase) during the first days of life. Diagnosis of classical CAH is confirmed by follow‐up serum 17‐hydroxyprogesterone and/or the adrenocorticotropin stimulation test; however, neither test definitively distinguishes between the classical subtypes. After confirmation, all newborns are started on hydrocortisone (glucocorticoid) and fludrocortisone (mineralocorticoid) treatment. While initiating fludrocortisone treatment in classical CAH patients, independent of subtype and before SW signs or symptoms occur, prevents a life‐threatening SW crisis, it may later complicate distinguishing between the classical subtypes. Genotype–phenotype correlations in 21α‐OHase deficiency are excellent; however, molecular testing is not a regular part of the diagnostic workup. Molecular testing on 39 patients (25 identified by NBS) with an already established diagnosis of CAH identified 11 SW patients (8 identified by NBS) whose mutations suggested further biochemical and clinical reassessment of their subtype. Overall, SW accounted for 57.6% of our classical CAH patients, below the generally accepted figure that >75% of classical CAH are comprised of the SW form. In the era of NBS, molecular testing is a valuable supplemental tool identifying patients who may benefit from reassessment of their salt‐retaining ability.
Fungemia due to Rhodotorula mucilaginosa after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Mori T. , Nakamura Y. , Kato J. , Sugita K. , Murata M. , Kamei K. , Okamoto S.
Published: April 2011

T. Mori, Y. Nakamura, J. Kato, K. Sugita, M. Murata, K. Kamei, S. Okamoto. Fungemia due to Rhodotorula mucilaginosa after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Transpl Infect Dis 2011. All rights reserved

Abstract:
Rhodotorula species have been increasingly recognized as emerging pathogens, particularly in immunocompromised patients. We herein report on a patient with myelodysplastic syndrome who developed fungemia due to Rhodotorula mucilaginosa after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) from an unrelated donor. He developed severe acute graft‐versus‐host disease requiring high‐dose steroids, and had serially been administered fluconazole and micafungin for the prophylaxis of fungal infection. Although several cases of Rhodotorula infection after HSCT have been reported, all of them were recipients of autologous HSCT, not allogeneic HSCT. A review of all the reported cases of Rhodotorula infection after HSCT revealed that all patients had received fluconazole or echinocandins before the onset of infection. The findings suggest that Rhodotorula species could be causative yeasts, particularly in patients receiving fluconazole or echinocandins, both of which are inactive against the species.
In vitro quality of platelets during prolonged storage after washing with three platelet additive solutions
Authors: Tynngård N. , Trinks M. , Berlin G.
Published: April 2011

Background and Objectives  Patients with anaphylactic transfusion reactions require washed platelet concentrates (PCs) for subsequent platelet (PLT) transfusions. New PLT additive solutions (PASs) contain substances that might be beneficial for the preservation of PLT function during storage. This study compares the quality of PLTs washed and stored with T‐Sol, Composol or SSP+.

Study Design and Methods  Fifteen buffy coats were pooled and divided into three parts. PCs with 30% plasma and 70% PAS (T‐Sol, Composol or SSP+) were prepared. Washing was performed on day 5 of storage. Ten PCs were prepared and washed with each PAS. In vitro variables including haemostatic function (clotting time and clot retraction) were analysed on day 5 before, directly after and up to 2 days after washing.

Results  Swirling was well preserved, and pH was within acceptable limits (6·4–7·4) during storage for all PASs. The PLT number was reduced by washing for all PASs, and T‐Sol PCs had a further decrease during storage. PLTs in T‐Sol were spontaneously more activated and had lower capacity to respond to an agonist than Composol or SSP+ PLTs. The haemostatic function was only slightly changed by washing and during postwashing storage.

Conclusion  PLTs washed with T‐Sol, Composol or SSP+ had good in vitro quality for two days after washing despite absence of glucose. PLTs in T‐Sol were more affected by the washing procedure and subsequent storage than Composol or SSP+ PLTs as judged by higher spontaneous activation.
Quantitative RT‐PCR Expression Analysis of Lipodepsipeptides Synthetase and Defence‐related Genes in Orange Fruit in Response to Antagonist–pathogen Interaction
Authors: Scuderi Giuseppe , Polizzi Giancarlo , Cirvilleri Gabriella
Published: April 2011

Strains of Pseudomonas syringae are effective in controlling postharvest diseases of citrus fruits, and antagonistic activity has been correlated with in vitro production of lipodepsipeptides. Additionally, biocontrol agents can induce a range of defence mechanisms of resistance in citrus tissue that result in a broad spectrum of metabolic modifications, such as systemic acquired resistance, induced systemic resistance and production of reactive oxygen species. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of syringomycin (syrB1) and syringopeptin (sypA) synthetase genes from P. syringae pv. syringae biocontrol strains in vitro on different culture media and in vivo on citrus fruits (Citrus sinensis cv. Tarocco) during the interaction with Penicillium digitatum by quantitative RT‐PCR. Similarly, gene transcript levels of chitinase (CHI1), allene oxide synthase (AOS), glutathione peroxidase (GPX1) and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL1) were measured. SyrB1 and sypA genes were more actively expressed when antagonistic Pseudomonas strains were grown on orange peel broth as compared to NB and PDB. Penicillium digitatum resulted to be strongly stimulatory only to syrB1 expression, thus suggesting that syrB1 gene could be involved in biocontrol activity. QRT‐PCR showed that both P. s. pv. syringae and P. digitatum strains increase CHI1 transcription in inoculated flavedo tissues relative to the untreated control. Interestingly, CHI1 transcription was markedly induced by co‐inoculation of P. s. pv syringae and P. digitatum strains. Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae, alone or co‐inoculated with P. digitatum, was weakly effective in enhancing GPX1, AOS and PAL1 gene expression, whereas P. digitatum alone strongly enhanced GPX1, AOS and PAL1 expression. Moreover, we assume that CHI1 gene is most likely part of the molecular mechanisms involved in pathogen defence responses in citrus fruit. This is the first example of monitoring the expression of syrB1‐sypA and CHI1, GPX1, AOS and PAL1 genes in interactions between P. s. pv. syringae biocontrol agents and P. digitatum in vitro and in vivo.
Paediatric biobanks: What makes them so unique?
Authors: Samuël Julie , Knoppers Bartha M , Avard Denise
Published: April 2011

Paediatric biobanks store and organise the biological material of children. They are an invaluable resource for the study of the development, health and behaviour of children. International norms for the management of adult biobanks exist, but paediatric biobanks require distinct policies to account for the needs of children, their general incapacity, and their intellectual development throughout the life of the biobank. Because of their particular nature we revisit the issues of consent, the return of research results, and privacy, and discuss how each could be modulated in the paediatric context. We recognize that such modifications entail further financial and logistical complications but maintain that it is essential that paediatric biobanks consider these issues and adapt their biobanks management policies accordingly, rather than extrapolate the current adult‐based norms and jeopardise the rights of child participants.
Arginine extravasation leading to skin necrosis
Authors: Abraham Mary B , van der Westhuyzen Jasper , Khanna Vikrant
Published: April 2011

Arginine hydrochloride is used in the evaluation of short stature and in the management of urea cycle disorders. In recent times, it has been used in the treatment of stroke‐like episodes of MELAS (mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, stroke‐like episodes). We want to highlight the need for good intravenous access and monitoring the drip site to prevent extravasation injuries that can be caused by arginine, which is a hyperosmolar solution.
AIM TO UNIFY THE NARROW BAND IMAGING (NBI) MAGNIFYING CLASSIFICATION FOR COLORECTAL TUMORS: CURRENT STATUS IN JAPAN FROM A SUMMARY OF THE CONSENSUS SYMPOSIUM IN THE 79TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE JAPAN GASTROENTEROLOGICAL ENDOSCOPY SOCIETY
Authors: TANAKA SHINJI , SANO YASUSHI
Published: April 2011

At present, there are many narrow band imaging (NBI) magnifying observation classifications for colorectal tumor in Japan. To internationally standardize the NBI observation criteria, a simple classification system is required. When a colorectal tumor is closely observed using the recent high‐resolution videocolonoscope, a pit‐like pattern on the tumor can be observed to a certain degree without magnification. In the symposium we could have a consensus that we will name the pit‐like pattern as ‘surface pattern.’ Using the NBI system, the microvessels on the tumor surface can also be recognized to a certain degree. When the NBI system is used, the structure is emphasized, and consequently, the surface pattern can be recognized easily. Recently, an international cooperative group was formed and consists of members from Japan, the USA and Europe, which is named as the Colon Tumor NBI Interest Group. This group has developed a simple category classification (NBI international colorectal endoscopic [NICE] classification), which classifies colorectal tumors into types 1−3 even by closely observing colorectal tumors using a high‐resolution videocolonoscope (Validation study is now ongoing by Colon Tumor NBI Interest Group.). The key advantage of this is simplification of the NBI classification. Although the magnifying observation is the best for getting detailed NBI findings, both close observation and magnifying observation using the NICE classification might give almost similar results. Of course the NICE classification can be used more precisely with magnification. In this report we also refer the issues on NBI magnification, which should be solved as early as possible.
ROLE OF ENDOSCOPIC ULTRASOUND‐GUIDED FINE NEEDLE ASPIRATION (EUS‐FNA) FOR DIAGNOSIS OF SOLID PANCREATIC MASSES
Authors: YOSHINAGA SHIGETAKA , SUZUKI HARUHISA , ODA ICHIRO , SAITO YUTAKA
Published: April 2011

Since it was developed in 1992, endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) has been widely used and has been adapted for gastrointestinal and perigastrointestinal lesions. A medical literature review to evaluate the role of EUS‐FNA for diagnosis of solid pancreatic masses showed a 78–95% sensitivity, 75–100% specificity, 98–100% positive predictive value, 46–80% negative predictive value and a 78–95% accuracy. The reported complication rates of EUS‐FNA for pancreatic solid masses were 0–2%, although the criteria for complications varied among the studies. Because of its high diagnostic yield and low complication rate, EUS‐FNA is cost‐effective and widely applicable for the diagnosis of solid pancreatic masses, and is the best initial and the preferred secondary method compared with other biopsy techniques, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography‐guided biopsy, computed tomography/ultrasound‐FNA and surgery. Although EUS‐FNA is ‘a nearly perfected procedure,’ controversy remains, such as the most suitable diameter of the needle, the appropriate number of needle passes and the necessity of on‐site cytopathological evaluation. Recently investigators reported that using molecular analysis of EUS‐FNA samples can achieve a higher diagnostic efficacy. Further research is encouraged to optimize the EUS‐FNA procedure to reach its maximum diagnostic yield for solid pancreatic masses.
SANO'S CAPILLARY PATTERN CLASSIFICATION FOR NARROW‐BAND IMAGING OF EARLY COLORECTAL LESIONS
Authors: URAOKA TOSHIO , SAITO YUTAKA , IKEMATSU HIROAKI , YAMAMOTO KAZUHIDE , SANO YASUSHI
Published: April 2011

Narrow‐band imaging enhances visualization of the mucosal surface structure and vascular network and helps to increase the visibility of neoplasia by improving contrast. Sano and his colleagues first reported its efficacy for endoscopic use in the gastrointestinal tract and later proposed a sequential classification of the mucosal vascular network patterns according to histopathological categories. Sano's ‘capillary pattern classification’ was established to facilitate diagnosis of early colorectal lesions on a step‐by‐step basis. This review focuses on the utility and effectiveness of Sano's capillary pattern classification when examining early colorectal lesions using narrow‐band imaging.
CLINICAL IMPACT OF NARROW‐BAND IMAGING MAGNIFYING ENDOSCOPY FOR ‘BASAL LAYER TYPE SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA’ IN THE ESOPHAGUS
Authors: GODA KENICHI , TAJIRI HISAO , IKEGAMI MASAHIRO , DOBASHI AKIRA , YOSHIMURA NOBORU
Published: April 2011

A 61‐year‐old man had received endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early gastric cancer twice. Then he had undergone annual control esophagogastroduodenoscopy using narrow‐band imaging (NBI) magnifying endoscope. At the esophagogastroduodenoscopy, we were not able to detect any significant finding in the esophagus by conventional endoscopy. Switching to NBI mode, a brownish area was showed in the middle esophagus. The lesion showing the brownish area was predicted to be mucosal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) as a result of assessment of morphologic change of intraepithelial papillary capillary loop under magnifying NBI observation. Lugol chromoendoscopy displayed the lesion as unstained area corresponding to the brownish area visualized by NBI. The ESD was performed for the lesion. Histology from ESD specimen showed SCC with minimal invasion to lamina propria at multifocal sites. The SCC was surrounded by low‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia. Most of the SCC showed a high degree of cytological and architectural atypia confined to the lower half of the epithelium. The type of SCC was called as ‘basal layer type SCC’ mainly by Japanese pathologists. We suggest that magnifying NBI endoscopy can be useful for detecting and diagnosing ‘basal layer type SCC’.
THE BENEFIT OF USING NARROW‐BAND IMAGING SYSTEMS FOR OBSERVATION OF CAPILLARY NETWORKS BEFORE DETERMINING OF TREATMENTS FOR EARLY COLON CANCER
Authors: SAITO SHOICHI , TAJIRI HISAO , OHYA TOMOHIKO , NIKAMI TOSHIKI , AIHARA HIROYUKI , IKEGAMI MASAHIRO
Published: April 2011

Introduction:  This study examined whether magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band Imaging observation could be useful selecting the appropriate treatment for early colon cancer.

Patients and Methods:  We analyzed 551 cases of colon tumors excised endoscopically or surgically, comprising 68 with large hyperplastic polyps, 25 traditional serrated adenomas, 141 tubular adenomas, 177 intramucosal cancers and 140 submucosal invasive (SM) cancers. We classified capillary network pattern into four types according to the degree of dilatation, irregularity and distribution of microcapillary features. These results were then compared with the histological findings.

Results:  The comparison of capillary pattern and histological features showed microcapillary networks by magnifying endoscopy with narrow‐band imaging observation in intramucosal lesion or SM cancer with remnant neoplastic glands at the superficial layer.

Conclusions:  The remaining microcapillary network was designed to maintain the architecture of neoplastic glands, even in the presence of subumucosal invasion. Consequently, loss of this network could correlate with depth of tumor invasion and histological reaction. Therefore, even if the tumor, remained of network was diagnosed to invade into SM layer, it should be checked up further examination by using magnifying endoscopy with crystal violet staining.
THE DIFFERENCE IN THE CAPABILITY OF DELINEATION BETWEEN CONVEX AND RADIAL ARRAYED ECHOENDOSCOPE FOR PANCREAS AND BILIARY TRACT; CASE REPORTS FROM THE STANDPOINT OF BOTH CONVEX AND RADIAL ARRAYED ECHOENDOSCOPE
Authors: KATANUMA AKIO , MAGUCHI HIROYUKI , OSANAI MANABU , TAKAHASHI KUNIYUKI
Published: April 2011

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) is useful in obtaining not only high‐resolution images of organs and surrounding tissue but also the tissue itself for histopathological diagnosis using fine needle aspiration. Currently, there are two types of EUS available for use: radial and convex arrayed EUS. Each type of EUS has its own advantages and disadvantages. Because radial arrayed EUS can obtain 360 degree images, it is easy to see surrounding organs and vessels. In addition, a single longitudinal image of the pancreas, gallbladder and bile duct is easy to obtain. For this reason, radial arrayed EUS is highly effective in diagnostic examinations. In contrast, while scanning range of convex arrayed EUS limited to 180 degrees, it has the advantage of being able to obtain tissue samples. Additionally while using convex arrayed EUS, the upper part of the bile duct and neck of the pancreas are easily seen beyond the portal vein. It is important to understand the characteristics of each EUS in order to select the most suitable EUS technique for diagnostic assessment.
HISTOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS BY EUS‐GUIDED FINE‐NEEDLE ASPIRATION BIOPSY IN PANCREATIC SOLID MASSES WITHOUT ON‐SITE CYTOPATHOLOGIST: A SINGLE‐CENTER EXPERIENCE
Authors: ITOI TAKAO , TSUCHIYA TAKAYOSHI , ITOKAWA FUMIHIDE , SOFUNI ATSUSHI , KURIHARA TOSHIO , TSUJI SHUJIRO , IKEUCHI NOBUHITO
Published: April 2011

There are few reports on the histological diagnostic ability of endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided fine needle aspiration (EUS‐FNA) in a large‐series of pancreatic masses. In the present study therefore we retrospectively evaluated the histological diagnostic ability of EUS‐FNA in pancreatic masses without on‐site cytopathologist. In 355 patients with pancreatic solid masses, EUS‐FNA was carried out. EUS‐FNA histology showed accuracy, 90.7%; sensitivity, 89.5%; specificity, 95.6%; positive predict value, 98.8%; negative predict value, 68.8% by intention‐to‐treat analysis. Except for 10 with inadequate materials, EUS‐FNA histology showed accuracy, 93.3%; sensitivity, 91.8%; specificity, 100%; positive predict value, 100%; negative predict value, 77.6%. The mean number of puncture was 2.88 (range 1 to 8). There was two (0.6%) procedure‐related bleeding. In conclusion, diagnostic ability of EUS‐FNA by histological materials was similar to previous literature on the EUS‐FNA without on‐site cytopathologist.
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF ENDOSCOPIC FACTORS FROM CONVENTIONAL COLONOSCOPY AND NARROW‐BAND IMAGING OF COLORECTAL LESIONS
Authors: IKEMATSU HIROAKI , SAITO YUTAKA , YAMANO HIROO
Published: April 2011

Background:  Narrow‐band imaging (NBI) diagnosis of colorectal lesions requires further consideration and standardized classification for attaining consensus among endoscopists.

Objective:  Compare vascular findings and diagnosis of colorectal lesions using various endoscopic images to assess effectiveness of NBI with magnification.

Method:  Three endoscopic factors (vascular findings; diagnosis from NBI with magnification images; and total diagnosis from all available colonoscopic images including white light endoscopy, chromoendoscopy, NBI with magnification and magnifying chromoendoscopy) for 15 colorectal lesions were evaluated by 12 expert colonoscopists (Group A), 36 endoscopists not expert in colonoscopy (Group B) and 55 individuals not medical doctors, but familiar with gastrointestinal endoscopy or other medical products (Group C). We calculated accuracy percentages for all three endoscopic factors based on responses from each group. Highest percentage for vascular finding, NBI with magnification diagnosis and total diagnosis for each lesion assumed to be opinion of each group. We compared incidence of agreement among three groups and calculated invasion depth diagnostic accuracy rate for each group.

Results:  For vascular findings from NBI with magnification images, incidence of complete agreement among three groups was 46.7%, incidence of disagreement among three groups was 46.7% and incidence of complete disagreement among three groups was 6.7%. For diagnosis from NBI with magnification images and total diagnosis from all available endoscopic images, incidence of complete agreement, disagreement and complete disagreement were 40.0%, 60.0% and 0.0%, respectively, and 60.0%, 40.0% and 0.0%, respectively. Invasion depth diagnostic accuracy from NBI with magnification images and all available endoscopic images were 60.0% and 73.3%, respectively, in Group A; 46.7% and 66.7%, respectively, in Group B; and 46.6% and 60.0%, respectively, in Group C.

Conclusion:  Results suggest some level of educational training is required for effective application of NBI with magnification for precise diagnosis of colorectal lesions.
NEW TECHNIQUES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVE OF EUS FOR THE DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS OF PANCREATIC MALIGNANCIES: CONTRAST HARMONIC IMAGING
Authors: KITANO MASAYUKI , SAKAMOTO HIROKI , KOMAKI TAKAMITSU , KUDO MASATOSHI
Published: April 2011

Although endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has the advantage over other imaging methods in that it is possible to obtain high resolution images of the pancreas, it is limited in its ability to characterize pancreatic masses. Contrast‐enhanced power Doppler ultrasonography suffers from several limitations such as blooming artifacts, poor spatial resolution, low sensitivity to slow flow and high sensitivity to motion artifacts. Recently, EUS system specific for contrast harmonic imaging has been developed. The use of this EUS system enabled us to observe images of microcirculation and parenchymal perfusion without Doppler‐related artifacts in the pancreas. Contrast‐enhanced harmonic EUS could diagnose pancreatic carcinomas as hypovascular masses with a high sensitivity (89–96%) and specificity (64–88%). Contrast‐enhanced harmonic EUS also discriminates mural nodules from mucous clots in the intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms.
Microbial Metabolism in Ice and Brine at −5°C
Authors: Bakermans Corien , Skidmore Mark L.
Published: April 2011

Metabolic activity, but not growth, has been observed in ice at temperatures from −5°C to −32°C. To improve understanding of metabolism in ice, we simultaneously examined various aspects of metabolism (14C‐acetate utilization, macromolecule syntheses and viability via reduction of CTC) of the glacial isolates Sporosarcina sp. B5 and Chryseobacterium sp. V3519‐10 during incubation in nutrient‐rich ice and brine at −5°C for 50 days. Measured rates of acetate utilization and macromolecule syntheses were high in the first 20 days suggesting adjustment to the lower temperatures and higher salt concentrations of both the liquid vein network in the ice and the brine. Following this adjustment, reproductive growth of both organisms was evident in brine, and suggested for Sporosarcina sp. B5 in ice by increases in cell numbers and biomass. Chryseobacterium sp. V3519‐10 cells incubated in ice remained active. These data indicate that neither low temperature nor high salt concentrations prohibit growth in ice, but some other aspect of living within ice slows growth to within the detection limits of current methodologies. These results imply that microbial growth is plausible in natural ice systems with comparable temperatures and sufficient nutrients, such as debris‐rich basal ices of glaciers and ice masses.
Collaborative Knowing: The Adaptive Nature of Cross‐Boundary Spanning
Authors: Hsiao Ruey‐Lin , Tsai Dun‐Hou , Lee Ching‐Fang
Published: April 2011

abstract

This article elaborates how experts employ boundary objects to perform collaborative work in situ across boundaries. Our study takes a practice lens to examine the adaptive nature of cross‐boundary spanning. We conduct a field study and analyse engineers' troubleshooting tasks in maintaining sophisticated wafer‐fabrication machines. Our findings report three organizing practices: identifying problem boundaries, orchestrating collective responsibilities, and developing a systemic understanding. This mode of organizing explains how experts draw lessons from boundary objects to facilitate adaptive learning and collaboration for solving complicated problems in interactive systems. Our analysis contributes to theories of cross‐boundary spanning, adaptive learning, and problem‐solving, and suggests practical lessons in managing cross‐boundary work.
Unheard voices, unmapped terrain: Care work in long‐term residential care for older people in Canada and Sweden
Authors: Daly Tamara , Szebehely Marta
Published: April 2011

Daly T, Szebehely M. Unheard voices, unmapped terrain: care work in long‐term residential care for older people in Canada and Sweden

This article aims to contribute to comparative welfare state research by analysing the everyday work life of long‐term care facility workers in Canada and Sweden. The study's empirical base was a survey of fixed and open‐ended questions. The article presents results from a subset of respondents (care aides and assistant nurses) working in facilities in three Canadian provinces (n= 557) and across Sweden (n= 292). The workers' experiences were linked to the broader economic and organisational contexts of residential care in the two jurisdictions. We found a high degree of country‐specific differentiation of work organisation: Canada follows a model of highly differentiated task‐oriented work, whereas Sweden represents an integrated relational care work model. Reflecting differences in the vertical division of labour, the Canadian care aides had more demanding working conditions than their Swedish colleagues. The consequences of these models for care workers, for older people and for their families are discussed.
Capital Market Access and Financing of Private Firms*
Authors: GOYAL VIDHAN K. , NOVA ALESSANDRO , ZANETTI LAURA
Published: April 2011

How does capital market access affect the capital structure decisions of firms? To examine this question, we compare the financing decisions of a large sample of private and public companies from 18 different European countries. We find significant differences in the leverage policies of private and public firms. Private firms have much higher leverage ratios than public firms. In particular, the leverage of private firms is more negatively related to past profitability, consistent with their less active adjustment. Other evidence corroborates sluggish adjustment and suggests that private firms face significantly higher cost of accessing external capital markets. When we compare private and public firms in countries that differ on creditor rights and contract enforceability, we find more pronounced differences in the leverage policies of private and public firms in countries that are strong on legal rights and their enforcement. In countries with weak rights and poor enforcement, the financing policies of public firms begin to resemble those of private firms.
Representations of “the West,”“Japan,” and “the Periphery” in the Discourse of Lafcadio Hearn Studies
Authors: FUKUMA YOSHIAKI
Published: April 2011

The purpose of this article is to analyze representations of “the West,”“Japan,” and “the Periphery” in the discourse of research on Lafcadio Hearn (“Hearn studies”) from pre‐war Japan. The nature and construction of nationality will be analyzed by examining where the representations of “the West,”“Japan,” and “the Periphery” intersected. During the 1900s, researchers in the field of Hearn studies recognized that “Japan” lacked—and thus sought—a universality similar to what existed in “the West.” The tone of the discourse shifted during the 1910s through 1920s however, and what came to be emphasized was “Japan's” peculiarity. By the 1930s through 1940s, “Japan” aimed to show to “the West” a new universality that was different from what existed in Europe and America. Yet simultaneously, in order to legitimize its representation of its self, “Japan” portrayed “the Periphery” as an object that was both excluded and absorbed or appropriated into that image. On the one hand, “Japan” received and internalized the Orientalist viewpoint of “the West.” In fact, “Japan” was always conscious of its self‐image as something to display to “the West.” On the other hand, in order to create that self‐portrayal, both a representation of “the Periphery” and a reflection from that same “Periphery” were essential. While representations of “Japan” were produced, reproduced, and reinforced through interactions with “the West” and “the Periphery,” the intersecting behavior of these three entities also points to a residual ambiguity in “Japan's” nationality. By analyzing the discourse in Hearn studies, this paper reveals how the interaction between “Japan” and the two others of “the West” and “the Periphery” helped construct and destabilize its nationality.
Initial Results of Linear Duty‐Cycled Radiofrequency for Atypical Flutter and Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: NAEGELI BARBARA , DANG LAM , BOLL STEFANIE , TIVIG CHRISTINE , SCHARF CHRISTOPH
Published: April 2011

Background: Duty‐cycled radiofrequency (DCRF) is increasingly used for ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Many patients also have atrial flutter (AFL). Recently, a linear multielectrode has been shown to create linear block at the cavotricuspid isthmus and in the left atrium (LA).

Objective: To map and ablate atypical AFL and atrial tachycardias (ATs) in the right and LA using a linear multielectrode with DCRF.

Methods: The linear multielectrode delivers DCRF at 20–45 W maximum in 1:1 unipolar/bipolar temperature‐controlled mode. Target temperatures were manually titrated to 60 °C in the LA, if power >5W indicated adequate passive cooling.

Results: A total of 76 AT/AFL were targeted in 57 patients. Acute success was reached in 14/15 (93%) right AT, in 17/22 (77%) left atrial roof AFL, in 5/6 (83%) septal AFL, in 9/9 (100%) other left atrial AT, but only in 8/23 (35%) AFL from the mitral isthmus (which rose to 13/23 [57%] with additional use of irrigated radiofrequency). Nevertheless, freedom of AF/AFL 10 ± 6 months after a single procedure was documented in 92% of right AT, 71% of roof AFL, 73% for mitral AFL, and 60% of septal or other LA AT/AFL. No char formation was noted. However, frequent induction of AF and one case of asystole occurred during delivery of DCRF in a pacemaker patient.

Conclusion: The linear multielectrode allows mapping and ablation of atypical AFL/AT. Freedom of AF/AT was reached in 60%–92% depending on localization and number of arrhythmias. Technical modifications will improve safety and efficacy. (PACE 2011; 34:1128–1137)
Working in Research Teams: Lessons from Personal Experiences
Authors: Lee Thomas W. , Mitchell Terence R.
Published: April 2011

Managing a successful research team involves a variety of activities and potential issues. In this article, we discuss these issues based on our experience of having worked together for 20 years with regular team meetings that include Ph.D. and undergraduate students and occasionally other faculty colleagues. We attempt to describe the challenges that occur, including some ethical issues, and distil the knowledge we have gained over the years. We pose and answer nine questions about our team processes and procedures and end with a brief summary of key learning.
Ethical Issues Faced by Editors and Reviewers
Authors: Rupp Deborah E.
Published: April 2011

This essay discusses the sundry ethical considerations confronting editors and reviewers. To begin, journal hierarchy and manuscript lifecycles are reviewed. From there, ethical issues faced by individuals in various editorial roles, who interact with various parties, are discussed. Issues include making fair desk rejections, assigning reviewers ethically, refraining from the promotion of HARKing (hypothesizing after results are known), promoting a holistic view of validity, balancing scientific progress with journal success, providing developmental and actionable feedback, disclosing expertise parameters, and upholding the spirit of double-blind review.
Author Ethical Dilemmas in the Research Publication Process
Authors: Chen Xiao-Ping
Published: April 2011

While editors and their editorial teams play an important role in gatekeeping the knowledge dissemination process, the majority of the responsibility to ensure the quality of the created knowledge and its fair review actually falls on the shoulder of the authors. This essay discusses the dilemmas faced by authors between maximizing their publication possibilities and being truthful to data, to co-authors, and to editors. Potential solutions are also discussed.
Relationship between periodontal status and intellectual function among community‐dwelling elderly persons
Authors: Moriya Shingo , Tei Kanchu , Toyoshita Yoshifumi , Koshino Hisashi , Inoue Nobuo , Miura Hiroko
Published: April 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00483.x
 
Relationship between periodontal status and intellectual function among community‐dwelling elderly persons

Objective:  The aim of this study was to indicate the relationship between periodontal status and intellectual function in the elderly.

Background:  Periodontal status has been shown to be related to demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological status. Intellectual function is a significant indicator of health status. Nevertheless, the relationship between periodontal status and intellectual function has not been elucidated in detail among the elderly.

Materials and Methods:  A total of 152 community‐dwelling elderly persons, aged 70–74 years, were enrolled in the study. Periodontal status was evaluated using the WHO Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN). Intellectual function was assessed by four neuropsychological tests: Raven’s Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM) test, the Verbal Paired Associates 1 (VerPA) task and the Visual Paired Associates 1 (VirPA) task, extracted from the Wechsler Memory Scale Revised Edition, and the Block Design subtest, extracted from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scales, Third Edition. Correlations between CPITN and each test were examined using Spearman rank correlation coefficients. The ordinal regression model was constructed with CPITN as the dependent variable and neuropsychological test as the principal independent variable to adjust for demographic factors, general health, lifestyle and oral health behaviour.

Results:  Significant correlations were found between the RCPM test, the VerPA task, the Visual Paired Associates 1 and CPITN. In the ordinal regression model, CPITN was significantly related to measures of RCPM after adjusting for demographic factors, general health status, lifestyle and oral health behaviour.

Conclusion:  Intellectual function is considered a significant indicator of periodontal status among community‐dwelling elderly persons.
Crystal structure of an ascomycete fungal laccase from Thielavia arenaria – common structural features of asco‐laccases
Authors: Kallio Juha P. , Gasparetti Chiara , Andberg Martina , Boer Harry , Koivula Anu , Kruus Kristiina , Rouvinen Juha , Hakulinen Nina
Published: April 2011

Laccases are copper‐containing enzymes used in various applications, such as textile bleaching. Several crystal structures of laccases from fungi and bacteria are available, but ascomycete types of fungal laccases (asco‐laccases) have been rather unexplored, and to date only the crystal structure of Melanocarpus albomyces laccase (MaL) has been published. We have now solved the crystal structure of another asco‐laccase, from Thielavia arenaria (TaLcc1), at 2.5 Å resolution. The loops near the T1 copper, forming the substrate‐binding pockets of the two asco‐laccases, differ to some extent, and include the amino acid thought to be responsible for catalytic proton transfer, which is Asp in TaLcc1, and Glu in MaL. In addition, the crystal structure of TaLcc1 does not have a chloride attached to the T2 copper, as observed in the crystal structure of MaL. The unique feature of TaLcc1 and MaL as compared with other laccases structures is that, in both structures, the processed C‐terminus blocks the T3 solvent channel leading towards the trinuclear centre, suggesting a common functional role for this conserved ‘C‐terminal plug’. We propose that the asco‐laccases utilize the C‐terminal carboxylic group in proton transfer processes, as has been suggested for Glu498 in the CotA laccase from Bacillus subtilis. The crystal structure of TaLcc1 also shows the formation of a similar weak homodimer, as observed for MaL, that may determine the properties of these asco‐laccases at high protein concentrations.

Database
 Structural data are available in the Protein Data Bank database under the accession numbers 3PPS and 2VDZ

Structured digital abstract

 laccase binds to laccase by x‐ray crystallography (View interaction)
Mediastinal sarcoidosis: An easily forgotten diagnosis
Authors: Chan Alexander P.H. , Wong Randolph H.L. , Ma Tony K.F. , Hsin Michael K.Y. , Wan Innes Y.P. , Ng Calvin S.H. , Underwood Malcolm J.
Published: April 2011

Sarcoidosis is rarely diagnosed and reported in Hong Kong. We report a 58‐year‐old woman with incidental findings of right hilar adenopathy on chest X‐ray and subsequent computed tomography showed bilateral hilar and paratracheal lymphadenopathy. A biopsy of the paratracheal lymph node was carried out by mediastinoscopy and pathology confirmed sarcoidosis. We acknowledged that sarcoidosis was probably an underdiagnosed condition in our locality and clinicians should be reminded to include sarcoidosis as a differential diagnosis when dealing with patients with hilar lymphadenopathy. Surgical biopsy by mediastinoscopy is a minimally invasive option for accessing mediastinal pathology.