bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome profiling and sequencing of differentiated human hematopoietic stem cells reveal lineage-specific expression and alternative splicing of genes
Authors: Liu Poching , Barb Jennifer , Woodhouse Kimberly , Taylor James G. , Munson Peter J. , Raghavachari Nalini
Published: August 2011

Hematopoietic differentiation is strictly regulated by complex network of transcription factors that are controlled by ligands binding to cell surface receptors. Disruptions of the intricate sequences of transcriptional activation and suppression of multiple genes cause hematological diseases, such as leukemias, myelodysplastic syndromes, or myeloproliferative syndromes. From a clinical standpoint, deciphering the pattern of gene expression during hematopoiesis may help unravel disease-specific mechanisms in hematopoietic malignancies. Herein, we describe a human in vitro hematopoietic model system where lineage-specific differentiation of CD34+cells was accomplished using specific cytokines. Microarray and RNAseq-based whole transcriptome and exome analysis was performed on the differentiated erythropoietic, granulopoietic, and megakaryopoietic cells to delineate changes in expression of whole transcripts and exons. Analysis on the Human 1.0 ST exon arrays indicated differential expression of 172 genes ( P < 0.0000001) and significant alternate splicing of 86 genes during differentiation. Pathway analysis identified these genes to be involved in Rac/RhoA signaling, Wnt/B-catenin signaling and alanine/aspartate metabolism. Comparison of the microarray data to next generation RNAseq analysis during erythroid differentiation demonstrated a high degree of correlation in gene (R = 0.72) and exon (R = 0.62) expression. Our data provide a molecular portrait of events that regulate differentiation of hematopoietic cells. Knowledge of molecular processes by which the cells acquire their cell-specific fate would be beneficial in developing cell-based therapies for human diseases.
Intrauterine growth restriction affects hippocampal dual specificity phosphatase 5 gene expression and epigenetic characteristics
Authors: Ke Xingrao , McKnight Robert A. , Caprau Diana , O'Grady Shannon , Fu Qi , Yu Xing , Callaway Christopher W. , Albertine Kurt H. , Lane Robert H.
Published: August 2011

Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) predisposes humans toward hippocampal morbidities, such as impaired learning and memory. Hippocampal dual specificity phosphatase 5 (DUSP5) may be involved in these morbidities because DUSP5 regulates extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation (Erk). In the rat, IUGR causes postnatal changes in hippocampal gene expression and epigenetic characteristics. However, the impact of IUGR upon hippocampal DUSP5 expression and epigenetic characteristics is not known. We therefore hypothesized that IUGR affects hippocampal 1) DUSP5 expression, DNA CpG methylation, and histone code, and 2) erk1/2 phosphorylation in a well-characterized rat model of IUGR. We found that IUGR significantly decreased DUSP5 expression in the day of life (DOL) 0 and 21 male rat, while decreasing only DUSP5 protein levels in the DOL21 female rat. Fluorescent in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry analyses localized the changes in DUSP5 mRNA and protein, many of which occurred in the dentate gyrus. IUGR also caused sex-specific differences in DNA CpG methylation and histone code in two sites of the hippocampal DUSP5 gene, a 5′-flanking specificity protein-1 (SP1) site and exon 2. Finally, when IUGR decreased DUSP5 protein levels, Erk phosphorylation increased. We conclude that IUGR affects hippocampal DUSP5 expression and epigenetic characteristics in a sex-specific manner.
Impulse Control of Proportional Reinsurance with Constraints
Authors: Meng Hui , Siu Tak Kuen
Published: August 2011

We consider an insurance company whose surplus follows a diffusion process
with proportional reinsurance and impulse dividend control. Our objective is to
maximize expected discounted dividend payouts to shareholders of the company
until the time of bankruptcy. To meet some essential requirements of solvency
control (e.g., bankruptcy not soon), we impose some constraints on the insurance
company's dividend policy. Under two types of constraints, we derive the value
functions and optimal control policies of the company.
Positive Solutions for a General Gause‐Type Predator‐Prey Model with Monotonic Functional Response
Authors: Zhang Guohong , Wang Xiaoli
Published: August 2011

We study a general Gause‐type predator‐prey model with
monotonic functional response under Dirichlet boundary condition. Necessary and
sufficient conditions for the existence and nonexistence of positive solutions for this
system are obtained by means of the fixed point index theory. In addition, the local
and global bifurcations from a semitrivial state are also investigated on the basis of
bifurcation theory. The results indicate diffusion, and functional response does help
to create stationary pattern.
Effect of Different Parameters on Mechanical and Erosion Wear Behavior of Bamboo Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Gupta Anu , Kumar Ajit , Patnaik Amar , Biswas Sandhyarani
Published: August 2011

The application of natural fibers as reinforcement in polymer composites has been continuously growing during the last few decades. These composites find diverse applications in hostile environment where they are exposed to external attacks such as solid particle erosion. Also, in many respects, the mechanical properties of different polymer composites are their most important characteristics. Therefore, improvement of the erosion resistance and mechanical behavior of polymer composites are the prime requirements in their applications. Bamboo fiber which is rich in cellulose, relatively inexpensive, and abundantly available has the potential for reinforcement in polymers. To this end, an attempt has been made in this paper not only to study the utilization potential of bamboo fiber in polymer composites but also to study the effect of various parameters on mechanical and erosion wear performance of bamboo fiber reinforced epoxy composites.
ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channel Currents in Eccentrically Hypertrophied Cardiac Myocytes of Volume-Overloaded Rats
Authors: Alvin Zikiar V. , Millis Richard M. , Hajj-Mousssa Wissam , Haddad Georges E.
Published: August 2011

ATP-sensitive potassium channels (KATP) protect the myocardium from hypertrophy induced by pressure-overloading. In this study, we determined the effects of these channels in volume-overloading. We compared the effects of a KATPagonist and a KATPantagonist on sarcolemmal transmembrane current density (pA/pF) clamped at 20 mV increments of membrane potential from −80 to +40 mV in ventricular cardiac myocytes. The basal outward potassium pA/pF in myocytes of volume-overloaded animals was significantly smaller than that in the myocytes of sham-operated controls. Treatment of the control myocytes with the KATPagonist cromakalim increased pA/pF significantly. This increase was blocked by the KATPantagonist glibenclamide. Treatment of the hypertrophied myocytes from volume-overloaded animals with cromakalim and in the presence and absence of glibenclamide did not change pA/pF significantly. These findings suggest that eccentrically hypertrophied cardiac myocytes from volume-overloading may be unresponsive to specific activation/inactivation of KATPand that dysfunctional KATPmay fail to protect the myocardium from left ventricular hypertrophy associated with volume-overloading.
A Data Envelopment‐Based Clustering Approach for Public Sugar Factories in Privatizing Process
Authors: Demirtas Ezgi A.
Published: August 2011

Turkish Sugar Inc., a public enterprise including 25 factories, is the first corporation of Turkish industry. According to the government policy, public sugar factories (PSFs) will be privatized as geography‐based 6 portfolio groups in two years. As performance measures of PSF affect government, sugar producers, and several unions in privatizing process, a systematic approach is necessary to measure efficiencies and grouping factories. This paper uses a new DEA‐ (Data Envelopment Analysis‐) based clustering approach for measuring efficiency scores of PSF and grouping them instead of geography‐ based portfolio groups. This new approach can help decision makers in privatizing process. At the same time, target values obtained by dual model can be used to eliminate inefficiencies of some PSFs.
Control and Synchronization of Fractional‐Order Financial System Based on Linear Control
Authors: Chen Liping , Chai Yi , Wu Ranchao
Published: August 2011

Control and synchronization of the financial systems with fractional‐order are discussed in this paper. Based on the stability theory of fractional‐order differential equations, Routh‐Hurwitz stability condition, and by using linear control, simpler controllers are designed to achieve control and synchronization of the fractional‐order financial systems. The proposed controllers are linear and easy to implement, which have improved the existing results. Theoretical analysis and numerical simulations are shown to demonstrate the validity and feasibility of the proposed method.
NAFLD, Estrogens, and Physical Exercise: The Animal Model
Authors: Lavoie Jean-Marc , Pighon Abdolnaser
Published: August 2011

One segment of the population that is particularly inclined to liver fat accumulation is postmenopausal women. Although nonalcoholic hepatic steatosis is more common in men than in women, after menopause there is a reversal in gender distribution. At the present time, weight loss and exercise are regarded as first line treatments for NAFLD in postmenopausal women, as it is the case for the management of metabolic syndrome. In recent years, there has been substantial evidence coming mostly from the use of the animal model, that indeed estrogens withdrawal is associated with modifications of molecular markers favouring the activity of metabolic pathways ultimately leading to liver fat accumulation. In addition, the use of the animal model has provided physiological and molecular evidence that exercise training provides estrogens-like protective effects on liver fat accumulation and its consequences. The purpose of the present paper is to present information relative to the development of a state of NAFLD resulting from the absence of estrogens and the role of exercise training, emphasizing on the contribution of the animal model on these issues.
Long Noncoding RNA, Polycomb, and the Ghosts Haunting INK4b-ARF-INK4a Expression
Authors: Aguilo Francesca , Zhou Ming-Ming , Walsh Martin J.
Published: August 2011

Polycomb group proteins (PcG) function as transcriptional repressors of gene expression. The important role of PcG in mediating repression of the INK4b-ARF-INK4a locus, by directly binding to the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) transcript antisense noncoding RNA in the INK4 locus (ANRIL), was recently shown. INK4b-ARF-INK4a encodes 3 tumor-suppressor proteins, p15INK4b, p14ARF, and p16INK4a, and its transcription is a key requirement for replicative or oncogene-induced senescence and constitutes an important barrier for tumor growth. ANRIL gene is transcribed in the antisense orientation of the INK4b-ARF-INK4a gene cluster, and different single-nucleotide polymorphisms are associated with increased susceptibility to several diseases. Although lncRNA-mediated regulation of INK4b-ARF-INK4a gene is not restricted to ANRIL, both polycomb repressive complex-1 (PRC1) and -2 (PRC2) interact with ANRIL to form heterochromatin surrounding the INK4b-ARF-INK4a locus, leading to its repression. This mechanism would provide an increased advantage for bypassing senescence, sustaining the requirements for the proliferation of stem and/or progenitor cell populations or inappropriately leading to oncogenesis through the aberrant saturation of the INK4b-ARF-INK4a locus by PcG complexes. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the underlying epigenetic mechanisms that link PcG function with ANRIL, which impose gene silencing to control cellular homeostasis as well as cancer development. Cancer Res; 71(16); 5365–9. ©2011 AACR.
B-Myb, Cancer, Senescence, and MicroRNAs
Authors: Martinez Ivan , DiMaio Daniel
Published: August 2011

The transcription factor B-Myb plays a critical role in regulating gene expression and is implicated in controlling carcinogenesis and cellular senescence. Transcription of the B-Myb gene is regulated by retinoblastoma proteins acting directly on the B-Myb promoter. Recently, we found that microRNAs also control the abundance of B-Myb mRNA during senescence, adding another level of complexity to B-Myb regulation. This review focuses on the importance of B-Myb in cancer and senescence, with an emphasis on the regulation of B-Myb expression and activity. Cancer Res; 71(16); 5370–3. ©2011 AACR.
Prognostic Model for Survival in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma: Results from the International Kidney Cancer Working Group
Authors: Manola Judith , Royston Patrick , Elson Paul , McCormack Jennifer Bacik , Mazumdar Madhu , Négrier Sylvie , Escudier Bernard , Eisen Tim , Dutcher Janice , Atkins Michael , Heng Daniel Y.C. , Choueiri Toni K. , Motzer Robert , Bukowski Ronald
Published: August 2011

Purpose: To develop a single validated model for survival in metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) using a comprehensive international database.

Experimental Design: A comprehensive database of 3,748 patients including previously reported clinical prognostic factors was established by pooling patient-level data from clinical trials. Following quality control and standardization, descriptive statistics were generated. Univariate analyses were conducted using proportional hazards models. Multivariable analysis using a log–logistic model stratified by center and multivariable fractional polynomials was conducted to identify independent predictors of survival. Missing data were handled using multiple imputation methods. Three risk groups were formed using the 25th and 75th percentiles of the resulting prognostic index. The model was validated using an independent data set of 645 patients treated with tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy.

Results: Median survival in the favorable, intermediate and poor risk groups was 26.9 months, 11.5 months, and 4.2 months, respectively. Factors contributing to the prognostic index included treatment, performance status, number of metastatic sites, time from diagnosis to treatment, and pretreatment hemoglobin, white blood count, lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, and serum calcium. The model showed good concordance when tested among patients treated with TKI therapy (C statistic = 0.741, 95% CI: 0.714–0.768).

Conclusions: Nine clinical factors can be used to model survival in mRCC and form distinct prognostic groups. The model shows utility among patients treated in the TKI era. Clin Cancer Res; 17(16); 5443–50. ©2011 AACR.
Stimulating Cardiac Muscle by Light
Authors: Jia Zhiheng , Valiunas Virginijus , Lu Zongju , Bien Harold , Liu Huilin , Wang Hong-Zhang , Rosati Barbara , Brink Peter R. , Cohen Ira S. , Entcheva Emilia
Published: August 2011

Background—

After the recent cloning of light-sensitive ion channels and their expression in mammalian cells, a new field, optogenetics, emerged in neuroscience, allowing for precise perturbations of neural circuits by light. However, functionality of optogenetic tools has not been fully explored outside neuroscience, and a nonviral, nonembryogenesis-based strategy for optogenetics has not been shown before.

Methods and Results—

We demonstrate the utility of optogenetics to cardiac muscle by a tandem cell unit (TCU) strategy, in which nonexcitable cells carry exogenous light-sensitive ion channels, and, when electrically coupled to cardiomyocytes, produce optically excitable heart tissue. A stable channelrhodopsin2 (ChR2)-expressing cell line was developed, characterized, and used as a cell delivery system. The TCU strategy was validated in vitro in cell pairs with adult canine myocytes (for a wide range of coupling strengths) and in cardiac syncytium with neonatal rat cardiomyocytes. For the first time, we combined optical excitation and optical imaging to capture light-triggered muscle contractions and high-resolution propagation maps of light-triggered electric waves, found to be quantitatively indistinguishable from electrically triggered waves.

Conclusions—

Our results demonstrate feasibility to control excitation and contraction in cardiac muscle by light, using the TCU approach. Optical pacing in this case uses less energy, offers superior spatiotemporal control and remote access and can serve not only as an elegant tool in arrhythmia research but may form the basis for a new generation of light-driven cardiac pacemakers and muscle actuators. The TCU strategy is extendable to (nonviral) stem cell therapy and is directly relevant to in vivo applications.
Reciprocal Transcriptional Regulation of Metabolic and Signaling Pathways Correlates With Disease Severity in Heart Failure
Authors: Barth Andreas S. , Kumordzie Ami , Frangakis Constantine , Margulies Kenneth B. , Cappola Thomas P. , Tomaselli Gordon F.
Published: August 2011

Background—

Systolic heart failure (HF) is a complex systemic syndrome that can result from a wide variety of clinical conditions and gene mutations. Despite phenotypic similarities, characterized by ventricular dilatation and reduced contractility, the extent of common and divergent gene expression between different forms of HF remains a matter of intense debate.

Methods and Results—

Using a meta-analysis of 28 experimental (mouse, rat, dog) and human HF microarray studies, we demonstrate that gene expression changes are characterized by a coordinated and reciprocal regulation of major metabolic and signaling pathways. In response to a wide variety of stressors in animal models of HF, including ischemia, pressure overload, tachypacing, chronic isoproterenol infusion, Chagas disease, and transgenic mouse models, major metabolic pathways are invariably downregulated, whereas cell signaling pathways are upregulated. In contrast to this uniform transcriptional pattern that recapitulates a fetal gene expression program in experimental animal models of HF, human HF microarray studies displayed a greater heterogeneity, with some studies even showing upregulation of metabolic and downregulation of signaling pathways in end-stage human hearts. These discrepant results between animal and human studies are due to a number of factors, prominently cardiac disease and variable exposure to cold cardioplegic solution in nonfailing human samples, which can downregulate transcripts involved in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), thus mimicking gene expression patterns observed in failing samples. Additionally, β-blockers and ACE inhibitor use in end-stage human HF was associated with higher levels of myocardial OXPHOS transcripts, thus partially reversing the fetal gene expression pattern. In human failing samples, downregulation of metabolism was associated with hemodynamic markers of disease severity.

Conclusions—

Irrespective of the etiology, gene expression in failing myocardium is characterized by downregulation of metabolic transcripts and concomitant upregulation of cell signaling pathways. Gene expression changes along this metabolic-signaling axis in mammalian myocardium are a consistent feature in the heterogeneous transcriptional response observed in phenotypically similar models of HF.
Continuity of Insurance Coverage and Ambulatory Care–Sensitive Hospitalizations/ED Visits
Authors: Becker David J. , Blackburn Justin L. , Kilgore Meredith L. , Morrisey Michael A. , Sen Bisakha , Caldwell Cathy , Menachemi Nir
Published: August 2011

Objective: To assess the effects of continuity of insurance coverage on treatment of ambulatory-care sensitive conditions (ACSC). Study Population: 42,382 children enrolled in ALL Kids (Alabama Children’s Health Insurance Program) for 3 or more years. Methods: We model annual hospitalizations and ED visits for six ACSCs identified by the AHRQ - bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, perforated appendix, urinary tract infection, gastroenteritis, and severe ear, nose and throat infection. Results: In unadjusted models, we find lower risk of ACSC hospitalizations and ED visits in the second and third years of continuous enrollment. Risk of hospitalization in year 3 was significantly lower for pneumonia (OR 0.608, 95% CI: 0.421-0.878) and gastroenteritis (OR 0.549, 95% CI: 0.404-0.746). These beneficial effects of duration of coverage disappear after controlling for age, year and other enrollee characteristics. Conclusions: Hospitalizations and ED visits for ACSCs are rare and do not decrease with additional years of coverage.
Nanofibrous Scaffolds for Dental and Craniofacial Applications
Authors: Gupte M.J. , Ma P.X.
Published: August 2011

Tissue-engineering solutions often harness biomimetic materials to support cells for functional tissue regeneration. Three-dimensional scaffolds can create a multi-scale environment capable of facilitating cell adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. One such multi-scale scaffold incorporates nanofibrous features to mimic the extracellular matrix along with a porous network for the regeneration of a variety of tissues. This review will discuss nanofibrous scaffold synthesis/fabrication, biological effects of nanofibers, their tissue- engineering applications in bone, cartilage, enamel, dentin, and periodontium, patient-specific scaffolds, and incorporated growth factor delivery systems. Nanofibrous scaffolds cannot only further the field of craniofacial regeneration but also advance technology for tissue-engineered replacements in many physiological systems.
Chymotrypsin C (Caldecrin) Is Associated with Enamel Development
Authors: Lacruz R.S. , Smith C.E. , Smith S.M. , Hu P. , Bringas P. , Sahin-Tóth M. , Moradian-Oldak J. , Paine M.L.
Published: August 2011

Two main proteases cleave enamel extracellular matrix proteins during amelogenesis. Matrix metalloprotease-20 (Mmp20) is the predominant enzyme expressed during the secretory stage, while kallikrein-related peptidase-4 (Klk4) is predominantly expressed during maturation. Mutations to both Mmp20 and Klk4 result in abnormal enamel phenotypes. During a recent whole-genome microarray analysis of rat incisor enamel organ cells derived from the secretory and maturation stages of amelogenesis, the serine protease chymotrypsin C (caldecrin, Ctrc) was identified as significantly up-regulated (> 11-fold) during enamel maturation. Prior reports indicate that Ctrc expression is pancreas-specific, albeit low levels were also noted in brain. We here report on the expression of Ctrc in the enamel organ. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) and Western blot analysis were used to confirm the expression of Ctrc in the developing enamel organ. The expression profile of Ctrc is similar to that of Klk4, increasing markedly during the maturation stage relative to the secretory stage, although levels of Ctrc mRNA are lower than for Klk4. The discovery of a new serine protease possibly involved in enamel development has important implications for our understanding of the factors that regulate enamel biomineralization.
Mode of Birth Delivery Affects Oral Microbiota in Infants
Authors: Lif Holgerson P. , Harnevik L. , Hernell O. , Tanner A.C.R. , Johansson I.
Published: August 2011

Establishment of the microbiota of the gut has been shown to differ between infants delivered by Caesarian section (C-section) and those delivered vaginally. The aim of the present study was to compare the oral microbiota in infants delivered by these different routes. The oral biofilm was assayed by the Human Oral Microbe Identification Microarray (HOMIM) in healthy three-month-old infants, 38 infants born by C-section, and 25 infants delivered vaginally. Among over 300 bacterial taxa targeted by the HOMIM microarray, Slackia exigua was detected only in infants delivered by C-section. Further, significantly more bacterial taxa were detected in the infants delivered vaginally (79 species/species clusters) compared with infants delivered by C-section (54 species/species clusters). Multivariate modeling revealed a strong model that separated the microbiota of C-section and vaginally delivered infants into two distinct colonization patterns. In conclusion, our study indicated differences in the oral microbiota in infants due to mode of delivery, with vaginally delivered infants having a higher number of taxa detected by the HOMIM microarray.
C-kit Expression in Canine Mucosal Melanomas
Authors: Newman S. J. , Jankovsky J. M. , Rohrbach B. W. , LeBlanc A. K.
Published: August 2011

The c-kit receptor is responsible for transmission of promigration signals to melanocytes; its downregulation may be involved in malignant progression of human melanocytic neoplasms. Expression of this receptor has not been examined in normal or neoplastic melanocytes from dogs. In this study, 14 benign dermal and 61 malignant mucosal melanocytic tumors were examined for c-kit (KIT) expression. Sites of the mucosal melanomas were gingiva (not further specified; n = 30), buccal gingiva ( n = 6), soft palate ( n = 4), hard palate ( n = 5), tongue ( n = 7), lip ( n = 6), and conjunctiva ( n = 3). Melan A was expressed in all 14 dermal melanocytomas and in 59 of 61 (96.7%) tumors from oral or conjunctival mucosa, confirming melanocytic origin. C-kit receptor expression was strong and diffuse throughout the cytoplasm in all 14 dermal melanocytomas and was identified in basilar mucosal melanocytes over submucosal neoplasms (27 of 61, 44.3%), junctional (neoplastic) melanocytes (17 of 61, 27.9%), and, less commonly, neoplastic melanocytes of the subepithelial tumors (6 of 61, 9.8%). KIT expression anywhere within the resected melanomas correlated with significantly longer survival. These results suggest that c-kit receptor expression may be altered in canine melanomas and may have potential as a prognostic indicator for mucosal melanomas.
Intramuscular Transplantation of Muscle-Derived Stem Cells Accelerates Skeletal Muscle Healing After Contusion Injury via Enhancement of Angiogenesis
Authors: Ota Shusuke , Uehara Kenji , Nozaki Masahiro , Kobayashi Tetsuo , Terada Satoshi , Tobita Kimimasa , Fu Freddie H. , Huard Johnny
Published: August 2011

Background: Muscle contusions are common muscle injuries. Although these injuries are capable of healing, incomplete functional recovery often occurs. Muscle-derived stem cells (MDSCs) are likely derived from blood vessel cells and have a multilineage differentiation potential.

Purpose: The aims of this study are (1) to find optimal timing of MDSC transplantation to enhance muscle healing by stimulating muscle regeneration and preventing scar tissue (fibrosis) formation after skeletal muscle contusion injury, and (2) to investigate the role of angiogenesis in the muscle-healing process after MDSC transplantation.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: Muscle-derived stem cells were injected directly into injured tibialis anterior muscles of mice at various time points (1, 4, and 7 days) after the muscle contusion injury. Muscle regeneration, angiogenesis, and fibrosis formation were evaluated by histology and real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis, and functional recovery was measured by physiologic testing.

Results: Transplantation of MDSCs at 4 days after injury significantly promoted angiogenesis, which was induced by high levels of vascular endothelial growth factor expression at week 1, and significantly increased muscle regeneration and muscle strength by week 2, when compared with the other groups. A decrease in fibrosis formation was observed at week 4, when compared with the other groups, after the transplantation of MDSCs at 4 and 7 days after injury.

Conclusion: Intramuscular injection of MDSCs at 4 days after injury improved and accelerated skeletal muscle healing by increasing angiogenesis and decreasing scar tissue formation.

Clinical Relevance: These findings could contribute to the development of biologic treatments to aid in muscle healing after muscle injury.
Current Methodological Considerations in Exploratory and Confirmatory Factor Analysis
Authors: Schmitt Thomas A.
Published: August 2011

Researchers must make numerous choices when conducting factor analyses, each of which can have significant ramifications on the model results. They must decide on an appropriate sample size to achieve accurate parameter estimates and adequate power, a factor model and estimation method, a method for determining the number of factors and evaluating model fit, and a rotation criterion. Unfortunately, researchers continue to use outdated methods in each of these areas. The present article provides a current overview of these areas in an effort to provide researchers with up-to-date methods and considerations in both exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. A demonstration was provided to illustrate current approaches. Choosing between confirmatory and exploratory methods is also discussed, as researchers often make incorrect assumptions about the application of each.
Vacuum-infused anionic polyamide-6 composites: The effect of postprocessing
Authors: Teuwen Julie JE , van Geenen AA , Bersee Harald EN
Published: August 2011

Research on postprocessing of glass fiber–reinforced anionic polyamide-6 (APA-6) composites was performed in order to optimize the processing time. The two main points of investigation were the cure time and the annealing cycle. It was shown that the optimal mechanical properties (short-beam strength) coincided with the maximum degree of crystallinity for a cure time of 90 min at a cure temperature of 180°C. Annealing close to the crystallization temperature of APA-6 showed the largest increase in degree of crystallinity. For enhanced mechanical properties, however, the processing history is of importance. It was seen that for short cure times, sufficient annealing time at elevated temperatures is beneficial for the polymer chains to branch, cross-link, or adhere to the fibers, hence, significantly improving the mechanical properties.
Properties of low-density polyethylene/palm kernel shell composites: Effect of polyethylene co-acrylic acid
Authors: Salmah H , Romisuhani A , Akmal H
Published: August 2011

Palm kernel shell (PKS)-filled low-density polyethylene (LDPE) composites was studied. The polyethylene co-acrylic acid (PEAA) was used as compatibilizer. The tensile properties, thermal analysis, water absorption, and morphology of LDPE/PKS composites were investigated. The results show that increasing of PKS loading have decreased the tensile strength and elongation at break but Young's modulus and water absorption of composites increased. The higher tensile properties (such as tensile strength and Young's modulus) and lower water absorption with addition of compatibilizer was due to the improvement in the filler-matrix interaction and adhesion of composites as evidence from scanning electron microscopy studies. The presence of PEAA also increased the crystallinity of LDPE/PKS composites.
Common-Fate Grouping as Feature Selection
Authors: Levinthal Brian R. , Franconeri Steven L.
Published: August 2011

The visual system groups elements within the visual field that are physically separated yet similar to each other. Although grouping processes have been intensely studied for a century, the mechanisms of grouping remain elusive. We propose that a primary mechanism for grouping by common fate is attentional selection of a direction of motion. A unique prediction follows from this account: that the visual system must be limited to forming only a single common-fate group at a time, and that attempts to find a particular common-fate group among other groups, or among nongroups, should therefore be highly inefficient. We show that this is true in searches for vertically oriented groups of moving dots among horizontally oriented groups (Experiment 1) and in searches for motion-linked groups among nonlinked objects (Experiment 2). Feature selection may limit the visual system to the construction of only one common-fate group at a time, and thus the experience of simultaneous grouping may be an illusion.
Underestimating Nearby Nature
Authors: Nisbet Elizabeth K. , Zelenski John M.
Published: August 2011

Modern lifestyles disconnect people from nature, and this may have adverse consequences for the well-being of both humans and the environment. In two experiments, we found that although outdoor walks in nearby nature made participants much happier than indoor walks did, participants made affective forecasting errors, such that they systematically underestimated nature’s hedonic benefit. The pleasant moods experienced on outdoor nature walks facilitated a subjective sense of connection with nature, a construct strongly linked with concern for the environment and environmentally sustainable behavior. To the extent that affective forecasts determine choices, our findings suggest that people fail to maximize their time in nearby nature and thus miss opportunities to increase their happiness and relatedness to nature. Our findings suggest a happy path to sustainability, whereby contact with nature fosters individual happiness and environmentally responsible behavior.
Sensible use of observational clinical data
Authors: Overhage J Marc , Overhage Lauren M
Published: August 2011

Observational data sets offer many potential advantages for medical research including their low cost, large size and generalisability. Because they are collected for clinical care and health care operations purposes, observational data sets have some limitations that must be considered in order to perform useful analyses. Sensible use of observational data sets can yield valuable insights, particularly when clinical trials are impractical.
Medical Therapy for Calcific Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Salas Maria J. , Santana Orlando , Escolar Esteban , Lamas Gervasio A.
Published: August 2011

Severe aortic stenosis due to calcification of the aortic valve is the most common indication for aortic valve replacement in the United States and Europe. The standard therapy for symptomatic patients with severe aortic stenosis is replacement of the valve. Some of the risk factors and pathophysiologic mechanisms in atherosclerosis play an important role in the development of calcific aortic stenosis. In the last few years, there have been an increased number of publications regarding the use of medications in order to delay the progression of aortic stenosis. These medications include statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, and biphosphanates. This article describes and summarizes some of the medical approaches that have emerged to alter the progression of aortic stenosis. Currently, only statins have been evaluated in randomized, placebo-control trials. Furthermore, statins have not proven to alter the progression of aortic stenosis. Ongoing randomized controlled trials with the use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, statins, and biphosphonates will determine the use of these medications to delay the progression of aortic stenosis.
Damage models based on representation of the non-local residual
Authors: Huang Zaixing
Published: August 2011

A representation of the non-local residual is issued in the form of theorem. This representation makes the non-local residual satisfy the zero mean condition automatically. On the basis of this representation, a new theoretical framework and method to establish the non-local damage model are put forth. In this framework, the non-locality of damage and inelastic deformation is characterized by the non-local residual, and it need not introduce the non-local constitutive variables in the Helmholtz free energy and the dissipation potential. According to the new method, non-local quasi-brittle damage model and non-local viscoplastic damage model are established. The constitutive equations and evolution equations of damage are consistently derived from the thermodynamics principles.
Antibodies against aquaporin-4 in neuromyelitis optica: distinction between recurrent and monophasic patients
Authors: Ketelslegers Immy A , Modderman Piet W , Vennegoor Anke , Killestein Joep , Hamann Dörte , Hintzen Rogier Q
Published: August 2011

The detection of antibodies against aquaporin-4 (AQP4) has improved the diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica (NMO). We evaluated a recently established cell-based anti-AQP4 assay in 273 patients with inflammatory CNS demyelination. The assay had a specificity of 99% and a sensitivity of 56% to detect all NMO patients and of 74% to detect the recurrent NMO patients, similar to the initial studies reported. AQP4 antibodies were absent in monophasic NMO patients, while samples in recurrent cases remained positive during follow-up. We conclude that the pathogenesis of monophasic NMO may be different from that of relapsing NMO.
Cortical oscillopsia without nystagmus, an isolated symptom of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder with anti-aquaporin 4 antibody
Authors: Kim Sung-Min , Kim Ji-Soo , Heo Young Eun , Yang Hye-Ran , Park Kyung Seok
Published: August 2011

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO), mainly affecting optic nerve and spinal cord, can also manifest diverse ocular symptoms due to brain abnormalities. We present a cortical oscillopsia without nystagmus or head tremor in a patient with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) with anti-aquaporin 4 antibody. This rare ocular manifestation, which is easily underestimated owing to absence of the typical nystagmus, can be an initial manifestation of NMOSD.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging correlates of cognitive performance in patients with a clinically isolated syndrome suggestive of multiple sclerosis at presentation: an activation and connectivity study
Authors: Forn C , Rocca MA , Valsasina P , Boscá I , Casanova B , Sanjuan A , Ávila C , Filippi M
Published: August 2011

Background/Objective: To assess whether abnormalities on functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) are related to cognitive function in patients at presentation with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) suggestive of multiple sclerosis.

Methods: Eighteen patients with CIS and 15 healthy controls (HCs) performed an adapted fMRI version of the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT). According to their PASAT performance, CIS patients were divided into two groups: 10 with a low PASAT performance (<1 SD from the mean value of HCs) were considered ‘cognitive impairment’ (CI); eight patients were defined as ‘cognitively preserved’ (CP). Between-group differences in the patterns of brain activations and effective connectivity were assessed.

Results: During PASAT, compared to HCs, CIS patients showed increased activations of the bilateral inferior parietal lobe (IPL), bilateral precuneus, bilateral middle frontal gyrus (MFG), left anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), left claustrum, right thalamus and right caudate nucleus. When CIS patients were analyzed, the CI group had a more significant activation of the bilateral IPL than HCs and CP patients. Compared to CP patients, they also had more significant recruitment of the right superior parietal lobe, right cerebellum, left MFG and left ACC. The analysis of effective connectivity showed stronger connections between several regions of the right hemisphere involved in working memory function in CI patients versus CP and HC.

Conclusions: During performance of the PASAT, CIS patients show abnormalities in the patterns of cortical recruitment and connectivity related to the level of their cognitive impairment.
Weight loss surgery for morbidly obese adolescents
Authors: Pfeil Michael
Published: August 2011

Obesity is common among adolescents resulting in substantial comorbidities and reduced life expectancy. Conservative treatments normally fail to ensure significant and sustained weight loss and suitable adolescents should be offered weight loss surgery. Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding and Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass are commonly used in adolescents. Complications in RYGB tend to be more severe, but the procedure leads to more immediate results. LAGB complications are often device-related and less severe. Dietary adherence, eating behaviour and unrealistic patient expectations often cause problems. Significant and sustained weight loss of 50–70 per cent of excess weight is achievable, comorbidities and psychological problems improve. Meticulous patient selection and preparation and good post-operative care are vital for successful weight loss surgery. Weight loss surgery is safe, effective and economically viable with nurses playing a vital role at all stages of its application.
Experiences of community health nurses regarding father participation in child health care
Authors: Alehagen Siw , Hägg Monica , Kalén-Enterlöv Maria , Johansson AnnaKarin
Published: August 2011

Traditionally child health care (CHC) has been an arena where mothers and nurses meet, but in recent years fathers are entering CHC with increasing frequency. The aim of this study was to describe nurses’ experiences of fathers’ participation in CHC. Nine Swedish nurses working in CHC were interviewed and asked to give a description of their experiences from meetings with fathers in CHC. Phenomenology according to Giorgi was used for the analysis and the essence of the findings was that father participation was seen from the perspective of mother participation and was constantly compared to mother participation in CHC. The essence is explicated in the following themes: participation through activities; equal participation although diverse; influence of structures in society; and strengthening participation. Clinical implications include the need for creating a separate identity in CHC for fathers and more communication directed at fathers.
Polyunsaturated fatty acids, cognition and literacy in children with ADHD with and without learning difficulties
Authors: Milte Catherine M , Sinn Natalie , Buckley Jonathan D , Coates Alison M , Young Ross M , Howe Peter RC
Published: August 2011

Suboptimal omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid ( n-3 PUFA) levels may contribute to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and related developmental problems. Associations between n-3 and omega-6 ( n-6) PUFA levels in red blood cells (erythrocytes) and learning and behaviour were investigated in 75 children aged 7–12 with ADHD. Children provided blood samples and underwent cognitive assessments. Parents completed questionnaires and Conners’ Rating Scales. Controlling for covariates, higher n-3 PUFA predicted lower anxiety/shyness (β = -.27), higher docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) better word reading (β = .22), and higher n-6 PUFA poorer reading (β = -.34), vocabulary (β = .-.26), spelling (β = -.30) and attention (β = -.30). Thirty-six per cent of the sample with learning difficulties had lower DHA than those without (M = 3.26 ± 0.54 vs M = 3.68 ± 0.76, p = .02). This study is the first to compare erythrocyte PUFAs (a measure of PUFA status) in children who have ADHD with and without learning difficulties, and supports emerging indications that the former may be more likely responders to n-3 PUFAs.
Uncovering pain in critically ill non-verbal children: Nurses’ clinical experiences in the paediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Mattsson Janet Yvonne , Forsner Maria , Arman Maria
Published: August 2011

Critically ill paediatric patients are frequently exposed to pain that is required to be assessed and treated effectively. The most reliable resource for assessing pain is the child itself, but children in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) are commonly unable to communicate their needs, requiring professional caregivers to uncover and interpret pain. However, nurses and paediatricians do not have sufficient knowledge of how critical illness affects childrens’ signs of pain. The aim of this study was to illuminate clinical experiences of pain in the PICU; describing nurses’ perceptions of expressions of pain in non-verbal, critically ill 2—6 year old children. The participants were 17 experienced PICU nurses. Data were analysed according to the phenomenographic method and three qualitatively different main categories, gained from clinical experience, emerged: changes in the measurable parameters; perceived muscular tension; and, altered behaviour. Furthermore, contrasting the categories revealed two diverse perspectives to focus pain: measure-oriented and patient-oriented. Subtle expressions of pain were recognised when focus was patient-oriented. These findings support the necessity of actively looking for pain deriving from various perspectives and considering diverse caring needs when doing so. Acknowledging pain makes pain visible.
Children’s participation in decision-making
Authors: Coyne Imelda , Harder Maria
Published: August 2011

Children’s participation in decision-making in the health care setting is complex because parents and health professionals tend to take a protective stance towards children to act in their best interest. Children prefer to be protected in some situations and to share decision-making in others. Adults in the health care setting need to consider children as individuals, rather than as a homogenous group, and take into account that a child’s competence and preferences will depend on the circumstances in every situation. This article argues for a situational perspective of children’s participation to act in the child’s best interest and to balance protection with shared decision-making, according to children’s rights and desires.
Special needs require special attention: A pilot project implementing the paediatric pain profile for children with profound neurological impairment in an in-patient setting following surgery
Authors: Hunt Katie A , Franck Linda S
Published: August 2011

There is a lack of knowledge regarding the implementation of pain assessment tools for children with profound neurological impairment (PNI) in in-patient settings. This article describes a pilot project to evaluate the Paediatric Pain Profile (PPP) for children with PNI undergoing surgery. Five families of children 5 to16 years of age with a primary diagnosis of cerebral palsy and admitted for surgical procedures were interviewed. Nineteen nurses completed questionnaires and children’s pain management documentation was audited. The project identified issues in three areas of pain management: implementation process, individualised pain management and partnership. The PPP required pre-admission assessment and parental involvement, and was considered time-consuming by nurses. Individualised pain assessment and intervention was difficult to achieve, as was shared assessment and documentation among parents and nurses. Despite initial resistance to change, with greater use there was growing appreciation of the value of components of the PPP. Further exploration of the PPP tool in practice is required before its use can be widely recommended for children with PNI in in-patient settings. Future studies are required to determine which of the available pain assessment tools has the greatest accuracy and utility for assessment of post-operative pain in children with PNI.
Increased demand for mental health services on college campuses: Perspectives from administrators
Authors: Watkins Daphne C. , Hunt Justin B. , Eisenberg Daniel
Published: August 2011

This study examined changes in the demand and role of student mental health services as reported by administrators from college counseling and mental health centers (CCMHCs). Ten CCMHC administrators from US institutions engaged in semi-structured interviews. Four themes characterized the changes in demand and role of student mental health services: 1) an increase in the severity of mental health concerns and demand for services; 2) overall psychosocial differences in today’s college student population; 3) changes in the roles of counseling centers; and 4) institutional challenges and the response to those challenges. Administrators’ responses provided an enriched understanding of the current mental health needs of college students, the potential psychosocial and societal causes of these needs, and the importance of dynamic and flexible responses by counseling centers and institutions more broadly as the mental health profile of students continues to evolve.