bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1): new pathoanatomical and clinico‐pathological insights
Authors: Rüb U. , Bürk K. , Timmann D. , den Dunnen W. , Seidel K. , Farrag K. , Brunt E. , Heinsen H. , Egensperger R. , Bornemann A. , Schwarzacher S. , Korf H.‐W. , Schöls L. , Bohl J. , Deller T.
Published: February 2012

U. Rüb, K. Bürk, D. Timmann, W. den Dunnen, K. Seidel, K. Farrag, E. Brunt, H. Heinsen, R. Egensperger, A. Bornemann, S. Schwarzacher, H.‐W. Korf, L. Schöls, J. Bohl and T. Deller (2012) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology 38, 665–680

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1): new pathoanatomical and clinico‐pathological insights

Aims: Spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) represents the first molecular genetically characterized autosomal dominantly inherited cerebellar ataxia and is assigned to the CAG‐repeat or polyglutamine diseases. Owing to limited knowledge about SCA1 neuropathology, appropriate pathoanatomical correlates of a large variety of SCA1 disease symptoms are missing and the neuropathological basis for further morphological and experimental SCA1 studies is still fragmentary. Methods: In the present study, we investigated for the first time serial tissue sections through the complete brains of clinically diagnosed and genetically confirmed SCA1 patients. Results: Brain damage in the three SCA1 patients studied went beyond the well‐known brain predilection sites of the underlying pathological process. Along with neuronal loss in the primary motor cortex, it included widespread degeneration of gray components of the basal forebrain, thalamus, brainstem and cerebellum, as well as of white matter components in the cerebellum and brainstem. It involved the motor cerebellothalamocortical and basal ganglia‐thalamocortical circuits, the visual, auditory, somatosensory, oculomotor, vestibular, ingestion‐related, precerebellar, basal forebrain cholinergic and midbrain dopaminergic systems. Conclusions: These findings show for the first time that the extent and severity of brain damage in SCA1 is very similar to that of clinically closely related spinocerebellar ataxias (that is, SCA2, SCA3 and SCA7). They offer suitable explanations for poorly understood SCA1 disease symptoms and will facilitate the interpretation of further morphological and experimental SCA1 studies.
Comparative efficacy of rHaa86 and rBm86 against Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus
Authors: KUMAR B. , AZHAHIANAMBI P. , RAY D. D. , CHAUDHURI P. , De La FUENTE J. , KUMAR R. , GHOSH S.
Published: February 2012

Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum and Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus are the most economically important tick species in India and other tropical and subtropical regions of the world and transmit pathogens causing animal and human diseases. We demonstrated that vaccination of animal by rHaa86 could be used for the control of both H. a. anatolicum and R. (B.) microplus infestations. By comparing the efficacy of rHaa86 and rBm86, it was observed that vaccine based on rHaa86 will be more effective in controlling homologous challenge infestations (68·7% against larvae and 45·8% against adults). The results of this trial demonstrated that species‐specific antigens are the better choice for vaccine development and could serve as an effective tool for the integrated control of H. a. anatolicum.
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt following liver transplantation: can outcomes be predicted?
Authors: El Atrache Mazen , Abouljoud Marwan , Sharma Saurabh , Abbass Ahmad Abou , Yoshida Atsushi , Kim Dean , Kazimi Marwan , Moonka Dilip , Brown Kim
Published: February 2012

El Atrache M, Abouljoud M, Sharma S, Abbass AA, Yoshida A, Kim D, Kazimi M, Moonka D, Brown K. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt following liver transplantation: can outcomes be predicted?

Abstract:  Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) has been fairly effective in managing portal hypertension in the setting of cirrhosis. The aim is to study the safety and efficacy of TIPS in liver transplant (LT) recipients. Fifteen patients underwent TIPS insertion following LT. Indications were refractory ascites (12), hepatic hydrothorax (2), and bleeding esophageal varices (1). Seven patients (46.6%) had complete (C) resolution of ascites, while eight (53.4%) had partial or no (PN) resolution. Portal pressure and portal‐right atrial pressure gradients post‐TIPS were comparable. Ammonia levels were significantly higher in the PN group. Encephalopathy occurred in two patients (PN group). Four patients required re‐transplantation and seven patients expired. The five‐yr survival probability was 60.0% for the C group and 66.7% for the PN group. Currently, six patients are alive without clinical evidence of ascites. Two patients are alive but require re‐transplantation. TIPS is a safe and effective method to control refractory ascites after LT. Portal pressure changes did not seem to correlate with resolution of ascites. Earlier allograft dysfunction is more likely with PN resolution of ascites after TIPS, and thus early re‐transplantation should be considered. Re‐transplantation in the context of organ dysfunction and graft failure should be a priority when considering TIPS.
Drug‐administration sequence of target‐controlled propofol and remifentanil influences the onset of rocuronium. A double‐blind, randomized trial
Authors: NA H. S. , HWANG J. W. , PARK S. H. , OH A. Y. , PARK H. P. , JEON Y. T. , DO S. H.
Published: February 2012

Background

Remifentanil is known to cause bradycardia and hypotension, as well as the decreases of cardiac output (CO). We hypothesized that hemodynamic suppression by remifentanil would affect the onset time of rocuronium. This study investigated whether the onset of rocuronium was influenced by the drug‐administration sequence during induction of anesthesia with target‐controlled infusion of propofol and remifentanil.

Methods

Healthy adult patients (n = 126) undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia were randomized into two groups according to drug‐administration sequence. In Remi‐Pro‐Rocu group (n = 62), remifentanil was infused first, followed by propofol. Then, rocuronium was administered lastly. In Pro‐Rocu‐Remi group (n = 64), propofol, rocuronium, and remifentanil were given in that order. As a primary outcome, the onset time of rocuronium was measured. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), CO, and stroke volume were recorded before anesthesia (T1), at injection of rocuronium (T2), immediately before and after intubation (T3 and T4).

Results

In Remi‐Pro‐Roc group, the onset of rocuronium was delayed significantly compared with Pro‐Rocu‐Remi group [median (interquartile range); 130 (105–150) vs. 90 (71–100) s, P < 0.001]. At the time of rocuronium injection (T2), MAP, HR, and CO were significantly lower in Remi‐Pro‐Rocu group than Pro‐Rocu‐Remi group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The onset time of rocuronium is prolonged significantly by early administration of remifentanil during target‐controlled infusion of propofol and remifentanil, and it may be due to the decreased CO caused by remifentanil.
Risk factors for incomplete resection and complications in endoscopic mucosal resection for lateral spreading tumors
Authors: Kim Hyung Hun , Kim Joo Hoon , Park Seun Ja , Park Moo In , Moon Won
Published: February 2012

Aim:  Lateral spreading tumors (LST) are relatively large flat lesions with diameters exceeding 10 mm in length. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is a commonly used technique for removing LST. We aimed to evaluate the risk factors for incomplete resection and complications of EMR for LST.

Method:  Between January 2004 and December 2010, 497 patients who underwent EMR for LST were retrospectively reviewed. Risk factors for endoscopic and histopathological complete resection, complications, and clinical outcomes were investigated.

Results:  Risks for incomplete resection by piecemeal resection and en bloc resection of a lesion ≥30 mm were higher than for en bloc resection of a lesion <30 mm (OR = 2.688, CI 1.036–6.993; OR = 4.982, CI 1.894–13.101). Risks of post‐EMR bleeding for piecemeal resection and en bloc resection for a lesion ≥40 mm were higher than for en bloc resection of a lesion < 40 mm (OR = 15.231, CI 1.816–127.744; OR = 43.043, CI 4.306–430.314).

Conclusion:  We found risk factors of EMR for LST and tentatively suggest a protocol for EMR adapted to the size of LST and resection methods. (i) Following piecemeal resection and en bloc resection for LST ≥ 40 mm, hospitalize patients for 36 h and note risk for incomplete resection and delayed bleeding. (ii) After en bloc resection for 40 mm > LST ≥ 30 mm, hospitalize patients for 12 h and note risk for incomplete resection. (iii) Following en bloc resection for LST < 30 mm, hospitalize the patient for 12 h and expect complete resection.
Phytoplankton chytridiomycosis: community structure and infectivity of fungal parasites in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Rasconi Serena , Niquil Nathalie , Sime‐Ngando Télesphore
Published: February 2012

Fungal parasitism is recurrent in plankton communities, especially in the form of parasitic chytrids. However, few attempts have been made to study the community structure and activity of parasites at the natural community level. To analyse the dynamics of zoosporic fungal parasites (i.e. chytrids) of phytoplankton, samples were collected from February to December 2007 in two freshwater lakes. Infective chytrids were omnipresent in lakes, with higher diversity of parasites and infected phytoplankton than in previous studies. The abundance and biomass of parasites were significantly higher in the productive Lake Aydat than in the oligomesotrophic Lake Pavin, while the infection prevalence in both lakes were similar and averaged about 20%. The host species composition and their size appeared as critical for chytrid infectivity, the larger hosts being more vulnerable, including pennate diatoms and desmids in both lakes. The highest prevalence (98%) was noted for the autumn bloom of the cyanobacterium Anabaena flosaquae facing the parasite Rhizosiphon crassum in Lake Aydat. Because parasites killed their hosts, this implies that cyanobacterial blooms, and other large size inedible phytoplankton blooms as well, may not totally represent trophic bottlenecks because their zoosporic parasites can release dissolved substrates for microbial processes through host destruction, and provide energetic particles as zoospores for grazers. Overall, we conclude that the parasitism by zoosporic fungi represents an important ecological driving force in the food web dynamics of aquatic ecosystems, and infer general empirical models on chytrid seasonality and trophodynamics in lakes.
Laparoscopic adhesiolysis: consensus conference guidelines
Authors: Vettoretto N. , Carrara A. , Corradi A. , De Vivo G. , Lazzaro L. , Ricciardelli L. , Agresta F. , Amodio C. , Bergamini C. , Borzellino G. , Catani M. , Cavaliere D. , Cirocchi R. , Gemini S. , Mirabella A. , Palasciano N. , Piazza D. , Piccoli M. , Rigamonti M. , Scatizzi M. , Tamborrino E. , Zago M. ,   on behalf of the Italian Association of Hospital Surgeons (Associazione dei Chirurghi Ospedalieri Italiani – ACOI)
Published: February 2012

Aim  Laparoscopic adhesiolysis has been demonstrated to be technically feasible in small bowel obstruction and carries advantages in terms of post‐surgical course. The increasing dissemination of laparoscopic surgery in the emergency setting and the lack of concrete evidence in the literature have called for a consensus conference to draw recommendations for clinical practice.

Methods  A literature search was used to outline the evidence, and a consensus conference was held between experts in the field. A survey of international experts added expertise to the debate. A public jury of surgeons discussed and validated the statements, and the entire process was reviewed by three external experts.

Results  Recommendations concern the diagnostic evaluation, the timing of the operation, the selection of patients, the induction of the pneumoperitoneum, the removal of the cause of obstructions, the criteria for conversion, the use of adhesion‐preventing agents, the need for high‐technology dissection instruments and behaviour in the case of misdiagnosed hernia or the need for bowel resection.

Conclusion  Evidence of this kind of surgery is scanty because of the absence of randomized controlled trials. Nevertheless laparoscopic skills in emergency are widespread. The recommendations given with the consensus process might be a useful tool in the hands of surgeons.
Phase II study of cytarabine in men with docetaxel‐refractory, castration‐resistant prostate cancer with evaluation of TMPRSS2‐ERG and SPINK1 as serum biomarkers
Authors: Dhani Neesha C. , Emmenegger Urban , Adams Laurie , Jongstra Jan , Tannock Ian F. , Sridhar Srikala S. , Knox Jennifer J. , Day John R. , Groskopf Jack , Joshua Anthony M.
Published: February 2012

Study Type – Therapy (cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

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

To date, there has been limited impetus to examine the use of cytarabine in prostate cancer. We presented preliminary laboratory data to suggest its utility in the castration refractory prostate cancer (CRPC) population which, combined with a previous case report, suggested it may have hitherto unrecognized utility in this setting. Embedded in this study was peripheral blood sampling for TMPRSS2‐ERG and SPINK1, two genes that are believed to define prostate cancer genotypes, to assess their utility as biomarkers

This study suggests that at the delivered doses, cytarabine has limited efficacy and significant myelotoxicity suggesting, it does not have a role in the treatment of docetaxel‐refractory CRPC. The presence of serum TMPRSS2‐ERG and SPINK1 mRNA biomarkers recovered from blood suggest that their analysis is worthy of further study.

OBJECTIVES

To run a phase II clinical trial of cytarabine in men with docetaxel‐refractory, castration‐resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), based on evidence that cytarabine might be effective in men with abnormalities of ERG oncogenes.

To measure mRNA levels of prostate cancer‐related genes in blood as biomarkers.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Ten of a planned maximum of 30 men received i.v. cytarabine at doses of 0.25–1g/m2 at 21‐day intervals. The primary endpoint was prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) response.

Archival tumour samples were assessed by fluorescence in‐situ hybridization for TMPRSS2:ERG translocation, and by immunohistochemistry for serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type 1 (SPINK1).

Blood was processed for mRNA quantification of TMPRSS2:ERG (exon1:exon4), SPINK1 and PSA.

RESULTS

A PSA response was not observed in any patient. The trial was stopped at the end of stage 1 of a modified Flemming design.

The median number of cycles administered was 3. Grade 3–4 haematological toxicity was common. Five patients were subsequently excluded from the study for toxicity, and five for disease progression.

Analysis of whole blood mRNA for T1:E4 translocation in TMPRSS2:ERG was consistent with that in the tumour in 8/9 evaluable cases (one was concordantly positive, seven were concordantly negative), SPINK1 results were concordant in 9/10 cases (two were concordantly positive, seven were concordantly negative [P= 0.047 for the predictive value]).

There was no correlation between PSA or SPINK protein and their respective mRNA copy levels in blood.

CONCLUSIONS

Cytarabine at the doses used is ineffective for men with CRPC.

Blood mRNA levels of prostate cancer genes may represent a novel aspect of monitoring prostate cancer and have implications for the understanding of tumour‐derived mRNA.
Prevalence of haematuria positively associated with urine albumin excretion in Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Shen F.‐C. , Lee C.‐T. , Sun C.‐K. , Chung M.‐S. , Lee J.‐J. , Chang H.‐W. , Hsieh C.‐J. , Yang K. D. , Liu R.‐T.
Published: February 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 1178‐1183 (2012)

Aims  Some guidelines or studies consider haematuria an indication for renal biopsy or a potential cause of albuminuria that precludes accurate assessment of urinary albumin excretion. This study examined the justification of excluding haematuria in interpreting urinary albumin excretion in patients with Type 2 diabetes and its associations with other diabetes‐related variables.

Methods  Between May and November 2008, patients with Type 2 diabetes at a single centre with data on urinary albumin excretion and urinalysis in the same urine sample were recruited. Urinary albumin excretion was determined by urine albumin/creatinine ratio in spot urine. Diagnosis of haematuria was made by positive urine occult blood from 1+ to 4+ and/or presence of more than nine red blood cells/ml in urinalysis. Demographic, anthropometric, clinical and laboratory variables and diabetes‐associated complications were analysed.

Results  In total, 743 patients were enrolled. Prevalence of haematuria among patients with normoalbuminuria, microalbuminuria, or macroalbuminuria was 8.7% (n = 13), 16.1% (n = 67) and 35.8% (n = 64), respectively. Urine albumin/creatinine ratio was significantly higher, while macroalbuminuria was more common in patients with haematuria (n = 144) than in those without (n = 599). Multiple regression analysis identified urine albumin/creatinine ratio (odds ratio 1.33, P = 0.01) and macroalbuminuria (odds ratio 2.66, P = 0.01) as the only independent predictors of haematuria. Moreover, urine albumin/creatinine ratio was an independent predictor of haematuria in the macroalbuminuria subgroup (odds ratio 1.30, P = 0.04).

Conclusions  Increased urine albumin/creatinine ratio and macroalbuminuria were the only independent predictors of haematuria in patients with Type 2 diabetes, raising questions on the justifications of excluding haematuria in interpreting urinary albumin excretion in patients with Type 2 diabetes and including haematuria as an indication for renal biopsy in those with macroalbuminuria.
Children’s Early Child Care and Their Mothers’ Later Involvement With Schools
Authors: Crosnoe Robert , Augustine Jennifer March , Huston Aletha C.
Published: February 2012

Theory and policy highlight the role of child care in preparing children for the transition into school. Approaching this issue in a different way, this study investigated whether children’s care experiences before this transition promoted their mothers’ school involvement after it, with the hypothesized mechanism for this link being the cultivation of children’s social and academic skills. Analyses of 1,352 children (1 month–6 years) and parents in the NICHD Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development revealed that mothers were more involved at their children’s schools when children had prior histories of high‐quality nonparental care. This pattern, which was fairly stable across levels of maternal education and employment, was mediated by children’s academic skills and home environments.
TreeMatrix: A Hybrid Visualization of Compound Graphs
Authors: Rufiange Sébastien , McGuffin Michael  J. , Fuhrman Christopher  P.
Published: February 2012

We present a hybrid visualization technique for compound graphs (i.e. networks with a hierarchical clustering defined on the nodes) that combines the use of adjacency matrices, node‐link and arc diagrams to show the graph, and also combines the use of nested inclusion and icicle diagrams to show the hierarchical clustering. The graph visualized with our technique may have edges that are weighted and/or directed. We first explore the design space of visualizations of compound graphs and present a taxonomy of hybrid visualization techniques. We then present our prototype, which allows clusters (i.e. subtrees) of nodes to be grouped into matrices or split apart using a radial menu. We also demonstrate how our prototype can be used in the software engineering domain, and compare it to the commercial matrix‐based visualization tool Lattix using a qualitative user study.
Cynandione A mitigates ischemic injuries in rats with cerebral ischemia
Authors: Yue Rongcai , Yuan Xing , Liu Xiaojun , Zhang Jigang , Jiang Peng , He Cheng , Shan Lei , Yu Yizhi , Zhang Weidong
Published: February 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 451–464.

Cynandione A, an acetophenone from the roots of Cynanchum auriculatum and other species in the genus attenuates neurotoxicity of a variety of neurotoxic agents such as l‐glutamate in vitro. In this study, we sought to further characterize the neuroprotective effects of cynandione A and other acetophenones from the roots of C. auriculatum in pheochromocytoma tumor cell line PC12 and investigate whether cynandione A protected against ischemic injuries in rats with experimentally induced cerebral ischemia. Viability assays using the 2‐(2‐methoxy‐4‐nitrophenyl)‐3‐(4‐nitrophenyl)‐5‐(2,4‐disulfophen‐yl)‐2H‐tetrazolium monosodium salt method and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays showed that cynandione A dose‐dependently attenuated glutamate‐induced cytotoxicity. Comparative proteomic analysis by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐time of flight MS/MS of PC12 cells treated with cynandione A showed 10 μM cynandione A caused broad changes in protein expression in PC12 cells including down‐regulation of high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) and dihydropyrimidinase‐like 2 (DPYSL2). Immunoblotting studies showed that 10 μM cynandione A aborted glutamate‐induced increase in DPYSL2 and HMGB1 levels in PC12 cells and 30 mg/kg cynandione A also attenuated the rise in HMGB1 levels and mitigated DPYSL2 cleavage in brain tissues of rats with cerebral ischemia. Furthermore, rats with cerebral ischemia treated with 30 mg/kg cynandione A exhibited markedly improved neurological deficit scores at 24 and 72 h compared with control and a 7.2% reduction in cerebral infarction size at 72 h (p < 0.05 vs. control). Our findings demonstrated that cynandione A mitigated ischemic injuries and should be further explored as a neuroprotective agent for ischemic stroke.
Synaptic vesicles are capable of synthesizing the VGLUT substrate glutamate from α‐ketoglutarate for vesicular loading
Authors: Takeda Kouji , Ishida Atsuhiko , Takahashi Kento , Ueda Tetsufumi
Published: February 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 184–196.

Synaptic vesicle loading of glutamate is a pivotal step in glutamate synaptic transmission. The molecular machinery responsible for this step is comprised of v‐type proton‐pump ATPase and a vesicular glutamate transporter. Recent evidence indicates that synaptic vesicles are endowed with glycolytic ATP‐synthesizing enzymes, providing energy for immediate use by vesicle‐bound proton‐pump ATPase. In this study, we provide evidence that synaptic vesicles are also capable of synthesizing the vesicular glutamate transporter substrate glutamate, from α‐ketoglutarate and l‐aspartate (as the amino group donor); glutamate thus produced is taken up into vesicles. We also report a finding that α‐ketoglutarate‐derived glutamate uptake into synaptic vesicles and aspartate aminotransferase are inhibited by 2,3‐pyrazinedicarboxylate. Evidence is given that this is a selective inhibitor for aspartate aminotransferase. These observations provide insight into understanding the nerve endings’ mechanism for high efficiency in glutamate transmission. Finding this inhibitor may have implications for further experimentation on the role of α‐ketoglutarate‐derived glutamate in glutamate transmission.
Prevalence of Unhealthy Substance Use on Teaching and Hospitalist Medical Services: Implications for Education
Authors: Holt Stephen R. , Ramos Jorge , Harma Michael A. , Cabrera Felix , Louis‐Ashby Coeurlida , Dinh An , Tetrault Jeanette M. , Fiellin David A.
Published: February 2012

The prevalence of unhealthy substance use (USU) among medical inpatients can vary, and prior research has not characterized the prevalence of USU among patients cared for by a teaching service (TS) and a nonteaching hospitalist service (NTHS). The objective of this study was to compare the prevalence of USU among patients cared for by a TS and an NTHS. We conducted a cross‐sectional study from February to June 2009 at a community teaching hospital. Within 24 hours of admission, all eligible internal medicine admissions to the TS or NTHS were screened for USU, using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test‐Consumption and Drug Abuse Screening Test. Patients screening positive then underwent a diagnostic interview and blinded chart review to increase case finding and to assess whether each patient's admission was related to USU. There were 414 eligible and consenting patients out of 656 patients identified. Patients on the TS were younger and more likely to be current smokers, male, unmarried, non‐white, and unemployed (p < .01 for all comparisons). TS patients were more likely to have evidence of USU (29.2% vs. 12.3%; p < .01). Among all admissions to the TS, 22.2% were deemed to be probably or possibly due to USU, as compared with only 3.7% of admissions to the NTHS (p < .01). Medical TSs care for a greater share of patients with USU as compared with an NTHS. These data highlight the need for expanded medical resident training in the diagnosis and management of USU. (Am J Addict 2012;00:1‐9)
Ictal epileptic headache as “subtle” symptom in generalized idiopathic epilepsy
Authors: Fanella Martina , Fattouch Jinane , Casciato Sara , Lapenta Leonardo , Morano Alessandra , Egeo Gabriella , Manfredi Mario , Prencipe Massimiliano , Giallonardo Anna Teresa , Di Bonaventura Carlo
Published: February 2012

Epilepsy and migraine are common neurologic chronic disorders with episodic manifestations characterized by recurrent attacks and a return to baseline conditions between attacks. Epilepsy and migraine are frequently observed in comorbidity, with the occurrence of one disorder increasing the probability of the other: Migraine occurs in about one‐fourth of patients with epilepsy, whereas epilepsy is present in 8–15% of patients with migraine. The link between headache and seizures is controversial and multifactorial. In epilepsy, headache can be seen as a preictal, ictal, or postictal phenomenon. In this report, we describe a case of a 37‐year‐old patient, affected by both drug‐resistant generalized idiopathic epilepsy and headache, who displayed the sudden onset of a headache attack referred during a 24‐h electroencephalography (EEG). The EEG tracing during this event revealed the activation of subcontinuous epileptic activity consisting of generalized spike‐wave discharges (GSWDs) and generalized polyspike and wave discharges (GPSWDs) that persisted for 60 min, that is, until the disappearance of the headache. The case we describe appears to be original in that it represents one of the few EEG‐documented ictal epileptic headaches in generalized idiopathic epilepsy.
ASSESSMENT OF PHOTOSYNTHETIC PERFORMANCE OF PORPHYRA YEZOENSIS (BANGIALES, RHODOPHYTA) IN CONCHOCELIS PHASE1
Authors: Xu Dong , Qiao Hongjin , Zhu Jianyi , Xu Pu , Liang Chengwei , Zhang Xiaowen , Ye Naihao , Yang Wanxin
Published: February 2012

Photosynthetic characteristics of four Porphyra yezoensis Ueda [a taxonomic synonym of Pyropia yezoensis (Ueda) M. S. Hwang et H. G. Choi] strains in conchocelis phase were investigated and compared with one wildtype of P. yezoensis and two strains of Porphyra haitanensis T. J. Chang et B. F. Zheng [a taxonomic synonym of Pyropia haitanensis (T. J. Chang et B. F. Zheng) N. Kikuchi et M. Miyata]. Results showed that experimental strains had higher contents of chl a and carotenoids, but a lower content of total phycobiliproteins than the wildtype. Meanwhile, photochemical efficiency of PSII was measured using pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) fluorometry technology. The value of PSII photosynthetic parameters of P. yezoensis strains were all higher than the wild strain, and the maximal quantum yields (Fv/Fm), effective quantum yields Y(II), and relative photosynthetic electron transport rates (rETR) of P. haitanensis were higher than those of P. yezoensis. The present study verified the possibility of selective breeding of P. yezoensis using the filamentous sporophyte instead of the gametophytic thallus, the advantages being (i) nonrequirement of control of life cycle and (ii) direct and rapid cultivar improvement by artificial selection. We consider the method to be a promising technique for selective breeding of P. yezoensis cultivars.
FATTY ACIDS, AMINO ACIDS, MINERAL CONTENTS, AND PROXIMATE COMPOSITION OF SOME BROWN SEAWEEDS1
Authors: Tabarsa Mehdi , Rezaei Masoud , Ramezanpour Zohreh , Robert Waaland J. , Rabiei Reza
Published: February 2012

This study was conducted to create a nutritional database on brown seaweeds and to popularize their consumption and utilization in Iran. The fatty acid contents, amino acids profiles, and certain mineral elements composition of some brown seaweeds, Padina pavonica (L.) Thivy, Dictyota dichotoma (Huds.) J. V. Lamour., and Colpomenia sinuosa (Mert. ex Roth) Derbés et Solier were determined. Total lipid content ranged from 1.46 ± 0.38 to 2.94 ± 0.94 g · 100 g−1dry weight (dwt), and the most abundant fatty acids were C16:0, C18:1, C20:4 ω6, and C20:5 ω3. The unsaturated fatty acids predominated in all species and had balanced sources of ω3 and ω6 acids. Highest total polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) levels occurred in C. sinuosa. The protein content of D. dichotoma was 17.73 ± 0.29 g · 100 g−1dwt, significantly higher than the other seaweeds examined. Among amino acids essential to human nutrition, methionine (Met; in D. dichotoma and P. pavonica) and lysine (Lys; in C. sinuosa) were present in high concentrations. The crude fiber content varied by 9.5 ± 11.6 g · 100 g−1dwt in all species. Chemical analysis indicated that ash content was between 27.02 ± 0.6 and 39.28 ± 0.7 g · 100 g−1dwt, and that these seaweeds contained higher amounts of both macrominerals (7,308–9,160 mg · 100 g−1dwt; Na, K, Ca) and trace elements (263–1,594 mg · 100 g−1dwt; Fe, Ni, Mn, Cu, Co) than have been reported for edible land plants. C. sinuosa had the highest amount of Ca, Fe, and a considerable content of Na was measured in P. pavonica.
URGORRI COMPLANATUSGEN. ET SP. NOV. (CRYPTOPHYCEAE), A RED‐TIDE‐FORMING SPECIES IN BRACKISH WATERS1
Authors: Laza‐Martínez Aitor
Published: February 2012

The morphology, ultrastructure, phylogeny, and ecology of a new red‐tide‐forming cryptomonad,Urgorri complanatusLaza‐Martínez gen. et sp. nov., is described.U. complanatushas been collected in southwestern European estuaries, blooming in the inner reaches of several of them. The estuarine character of the species is also supported by its in vitro salinity preferences, showing a maximum growth rate at 10 psu.U. complanatusis a distinctive species and can be easily distinguished by LM from other known brackish and marine species. Cells are dorsoventrally flattened. The plastid has two anterior lobes. One pyrenoid is located in each of the lobes, and a third one on the posterior part. Thylakoids are arranged in pairs and do not penetrate pyrenoids. The plastid is reddish due to the presence of the phycoerythrin Cr‐PE545. An orange discoidal eyespot lies beneath the nucleus, in the posterior ventral face of the plastid. A long furrow runs from the vestibulum, and a gullet is lacking. The periplast is composed of an inner sheet. The nuclear 18S rDNA based molecular analysis revealsU. complanatusis not related to any of the main cryptomonad lineages. Based on ultrastructural and pigment data, the most probable relatives are those merged under the family Geminigeraceae. Its lack of derived characters, together with the presence of characters proposed in previous studies to be primitive, suggestsUrgorricould be considered representative of the cryptophycean ancestral character state.
Analysis of Nε‐Ethyllysine in Human Plasma Proteins by Gas Chromatography–Negative Ion Chemical Ionization/Mass Spectrometry as a Biomarker for Exposure to Acetaldehyde and Alcohol
Authors: Mabuchi Ryota , Kurita Aya , Miyoshi Noriyuki , Yokoyama Akira , Furuta Takumi , Goda Toshinao , Suwa Yoshihide , Kan Toshiyuki , Amagai Takashi , Ohshima Hiroshi
Published: February 2012

Background

Nε‐ethyllysine (NEL) is a major stable adduct formed by the reaction of acetaldehyde (AA) with lysine residues in proteins. However, its occurrence and levels in biological specimens and its relationship with AA/alcohol exposure‐associated disorders have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we have developed a sensitive and specific method to quantitate NEL levels in human plasma proteins.

Methods

The method consists of (1) purification of the protein fraction of interest by Sephadex G‐15 to remove low molecular substances, (2) hydrolysis of proteins with Pronase E in the presence of stable isotope–labeled internal standards, (3) derivatization of amino acids with pentafluorobenzyl (PFB) bromide, and (4) quantification of the PFB derivatives of NEL and l‐lysine using gas chromatography–negative ion chemical ionization/mass spectrometry in a selected ion monitoring mode.

Results

Using the above method, the NEL levels in human plasma proteins obtained from 10 each of control subjects and alcoholic patients were measured. NEL was detected in all samples analyzed, the average level of NEL in the plasma proteins of alcoholic patients (1.17 ± 0.36 NEL/1,000 l‐lysine) being significantly higher than that of control subjects (0.26 ± 0.07 NEL/1,000 l‐lysine).

Conclusions

The method could be applied to molecular epidemiological studies to investigate possible associations between the NEL levels in human tissue proteins and human diseases associated with exposure to AA and alcohol.
Ethanol Tolerance and Withdrawal Severity in High Drinking in the Dark Selectively Bred Mice
Authors: Crabbe John C. , Colville Alexandre M. , Kruse Lauren C. , Cameron Andy J. , Spence Stephanie E. , Schlumbohm Jason P. , Huang Lawrence C. , Metten Pamela
Published: February 2012

Background

Mouse lines are being selectively bred in replicate for high blood ethanol concentrations (BECs) achieved after limited access of ethanol (EtOH) drinking early in the circadian dark phase. High Drinking in the Dark‐1 (HDID‐1) mice are in selected generation S21, and the replicate HDID‐2 line in generation S14. Tolerance and withdrawal symptoms are 2 of the 7 diagnostic criteria for alcohol dependence. Withdrawal severity has been found in mouse studies to be negatively genetically correlated with EtOH preference drinking.

Methods

To determine other traits genetically correlated with high DID, we compared naïve animals from both lines with the unselected, segregating progenitor stock, HS/Npt. Differences between HDID‐1 and HS would imply commonality of genetic influences on DID and these traits.

Results

Female HDID‐1 and HDID‐2 mice tended to develop less tolerance than HS to EtOH hypothermia after their third daily injection. A trend toward greater tolerance was seen in the HDID males. HDID‐1, HDID‐2, and control HS lines did not differ in the severity of acute or chronic withdrawal from EtOH as indexed by the handling‐induced convulsion (HIC). Both HDID‐1 and HDID‐2 mice tended to have greater HIC scores than HS regardless of drug treatment.

Conclusions

These results show that tolerance to EtOH's hypothermic effects may share some common genetic control with reaching high BECs after DID, a finding consistent with other data regarding genetic contributions to EtOH responses. Withdrawal severity was not negatively genetically correlated with DID, unlike its correlation with preference drinking, underscoring the genetic differences between preference drinking and DID. HDID lines showed greater basal HIC scores than HS, suggestive of greater central nervous system excitability.
Prevention of Inappropriate ICD Shocks due to Lead Insulation Failure by Continuous Monitoring and Automatic Alert
Authors: GELDER ROBERT N. , GUNDERSON BRUCE D.
Published: February 2012

Patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillator lead insulation failures may present with oversensing and/or abnormal impedance. The Lead Integrity Alert (LIA) monitors right ventricular pace/sense leads using both continuous oversensing and daily impedance measurementd. Oversensing consists of isolated short R‐R intervals and nonsustained runs of short R‐R intervals. The LIA algorithm has been studied for Sprint Fidelis conductor fractures, but not for lead insulation failures. We report on a patient with a failed St. Jude Riata™ ST lead (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN, USA) connected to a Medtronic Virtuoso DR (Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) with the LIA. Oversensing triggered the LIA, while the impedance trend was normal. (PACE 2012; 35:e150–e153)
Unrecognized Failure of a Narrow Caliber Defibrillation Lead: The Role of Defibrillation Threshold Testing in Identifying an Unprotected Individual
Authors: LEONG DARRYL P. , ERVEN LIESELOT VAN
Published: February 2012

In this case report we describe a short circuit in the Riata 1570 defibrillator lead (Riata 1570, St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN, USA) that was unsuspected owing to normal lead parameters until defibrillator threshold testing at the time of elective generator change. On this occasion, the short circuit manifested as unsuccessful defibrillation of ventricular fibrillation with immediate battery depletion. This report adds weight to existing concerns over narrow caliber leads, it draws attention to the possibility of lead malfunction despite unremarkable interrogation, and lastly it highlights the potential role of routine defibrillator threshold testing, particularly at elective generator change (an issue that remains sparingly addressed in the existing literature). (PACE 2012; 35:e154–e155)
Long Distance Conduction of Vasodilation: A Passive or Regenerative Process?
Authors: HILL CARYL E.
Published: February 2012

Please cite this paper as Hill CE. Long distance conduction of vasodilation: a passive or regenerative process? Microcirculation 19: 379‐390, 2012.

The mechanism enabling coordination of the resistance of feed arteries with microcirculatory arterioles to rapidly regulate tissue blood flow in line with changes in metabolic demand has preoccupied scientists for a quarter of a century. As experiments uncovered the underlying electrical events, it was frequently questioned how vasodilation could conduct over long distances without appreciable attenuation. This perspective reviews the data pertinent to this phenomenon and provides evidence that this remarkable response could be made possible by a simple mechanism based on the steep relationship between membrane potential and calcium entry demonstrated by the voltage‐dependent calcium channels which mediate the control of vascular tone in vivo.
Phylogenetic Position of the Adeleorinid Coccidia (Myzozoa, Apicomplexa, Coccidia, Eucoccidiorida, Adeleorina) Inferred Using 18S rDNA Sequences
Authors: Barta John R. , Ogedengbe Joseph D. , Martin Donald S. , Smith Todd G.
Published: February 2012

Investigating the evolutionary relationships of the major groups of Apicomplexa remains an important area of study. Morphological features and host‐parasite relationships continue to be important in the systematics of the adeleorinid coccidia (suborder Adeleorina), but the systematics of these parasites have not been well‐supported or have been constrained by data that were lacking or difficult to interpret. Previous phylogenetic studies of the Adeleorina have been based on morphological and developmental characters of several well‐described species or based on nuclear 18S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences from taxa of limited taxonomic diversity. Twelve new 18S rDNA sequences from adeleorinid coccidia were combined with published sequences to study the molecular phylogeny of taxa within the Adeleorina and to investigate the evolutionary relationships of adeleorinid parasites within the Apicomplexa. Three phylogenetic methods supported strongly that the suborder Adeleorina formed a monophyletic clade within the Apicomplexa. Most widely recognized families within the Adeleorina were hypothesized to be monophyletic in all analyses, although the single Hemolivia species included in the analyses was the sister taxon to a Hepatozoon sp. within a larger clade that contained all other Hepatozoon spp. making the family Hepatozoidae paraphyletic. There was an apparent relationship between the various clades generated by the analyses and the definitive (invertebrate) host parasitized and, to lesser extent, the type of intermediate (vertebrate) host exploited by the adeleorinid parasites. We conclude that additional taxon sampling and use of other genetic markers apart from 18S rDNA will be required to better resolve relationships among these parasites.
Transvaginal color Doppler sonography predicts ovarian interstitial fibrosis and microvascular injury in women with ovarian endometriotic cysts
Authors: QIU JUN‐JUN , LIU MAN‐HUA , ZHANG ZHONG‐XIN , CHEN LI‐PING , YANG QI‐CHANG , LIU HONG‐BING
Published: February 2012

Objective. To determine novel predictors of ovarian interstitial fibrosis and microvascular injury associated with ovarian endometriotic cysts (OECs). Design. Case‐control study. Setting. The gynecology unit of an affiliated hospital in China. Population. Women <40 years of age with OECs or benign ovarian tumors (controls). Methods. Transvaginal color Doppler sonography was performed preoperatively to detect ovarian interstitial flow. Postoperatively, expressions of transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) and thrombospondin‐1 (TSP‐1), as well as microvessel density in ovarian interstitial, were analyzed using immunohistochemistry. Main outcome and measures. Ovarian interstitial flow and expressions of TGF‐β1, TSP‐1, and microvessel density. Results. Compared with controls, ovarian interstitial flow in the study group was decreased and arterial spectra indicated significantly higher resistance indices. Microvessel density was reduced, but TGF‐β1 and TSP‐1 were elevated in the study group. There was a positive correlation between TGF‐β1 and TSP‐1. There were negative correlations between TGF‐β1 and microvessel density, and between TSP‐1 and microvessel density. Microvessel density and resistance indices were negatively correlated, whereas the correlations of TGF‐β1 and TSP‐1 with resistance indices were positive. Conclusions. Resistance indices are consistent with pathological indices. Changes in resistance indices in ovaries with endometriosis are related to interstitial fibrosis and microvascular injury.
The molecular basis of the plumage colour polymorphism in the Tahiti reed‐warbler Acrocephalus caffer
Authors: Cibois Alice , Thibault Jean‐Claude , Pasquet Eric
Published: February 2012

The endemic Tahiti reed‐warbler Acrocephalus caffer occurs in two distinct morphs, a typical or ‘yellow’ morph and a melanic or ‘dark’ morph, which are found together in the valleys of the eastern and central parts of the island of Tahiti (Society Islands, French Polynesia). We investigated the molecular basis of the plumage colour polymorphism in this species using sequences of the melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC1R), a gene often found associated to melanism in birds. We found that the MC1R genotype was perfectly associated with plumage colour in the Tahiti reed‐warbler, with the same nonsynonymous substitution that showed a correlation with phenotype in the Caribbean bananaquit Coereba flaveola. An heterozygous reed‐warbler at this site presented a melanic phenotype, suggesting that the melanic allele is dominant. All other Polynesian reed‐warbler species, which do not have a melanic morph, shared the ‘yellow’ nucleotide at this position. These results suggested that the same mutation point was linked to a melanic polymorphism in two unrelated passerine birds.
A.actinomycetemcomitans‐induced periodontal disease promotes systemic and local responses in rat periodontium
Authors: Bezerra Beatriz de Brito , Andriankaja Oelisoa , Kang Jun , Pacios Sandra , Bae Hyung Jin , Li Yu , Tsiagbe Vincent , Schreiner Helen , Fine Daniel H. , Graves Dana T.
Published: February 2012

Aim

To characterize the histologic and cellular response to A. actinomycetemcomitans (Aa) infection.

Material & Methods

Wistar rats infected with Aa were evaluated for antibody response, oral Aa colonization, loss of attachment, PMN recruitment, TNF‐α in the junctional epithelium and connective tissue, osteoclasts and adaptive immune response in local lymph nodes at baseline and 4, 5 or 6 weeks after infection. Some groups were given antibacterial treatment at 4 weeks.

Results

An antibody response against Aa occurred within 4 weeks of infection, and 78% of inoculated rats had detectable Aa in the oral cavity (p < 0.05). Aa infection significantly increased loss of attachment that was reversed by antibacterial treatment (p < 0.05). TNF‐α expression in the junctional epithelium followed the same pattern. Aa stimulated high osteoclast formation and TNF‐α expression in the connective tissue (p < 0.05). PMN recruitment significantly increased after Aa infection (p < 0.05). Aa also increased the number of CD8+ T cells (p < 0.05), but not CD4+ T cells or regulatory T cells (Tregs) (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Aa infection stimulated a local response that increased numbers of PMNs and TNF‐α expression in the junctional epithelium and loss of attachment. Both TNF‐α expression in JE and loss of attachment was reversed by antibiotic treatment. Aa infection also increased TNF‐α in the connective tissue, osteoclast numbers and CD8+ T cells in lymph nodes. The results link Aa infection with important characteristics of periodontal destruction.
Primary malignant melanoma of the oesophagus: A case report and literature review
Authors: Shum Chung‐Nin , Poon Chi‐Ming , Poon Cycles Suet‐Ping , Leong Heng‐Tat
Published: February 2012

We report a case of primary malignant melanoma of the oesophagus (PMMO), followed by a review of recent literature. Surgical resection for operable tumours remains the current practice. In general, the prognosis of PMMO is poor, with a median survival of 10 months. Recent advances, including chemoendocrine and chemoimmunotherapy, might help improve overall survival. Combined endoscopic and systemic therapy is an alternative for patients unfit for surgery, or in patients with metastatic disease.
Synthesis and Characterization of NiFe2O4 Nanoparticles via Solid‐State Reaction
Authors: Zhang Zhigang , Liu Yihan , Yao Guangchun , Zu Guoyin , Hao Yi
Published: February 2012

NiFe2O4 nanoparticles were synthesized via solid‐state reaction. The effects of the reaction parameters, namely dispersant content, calcination temperature and annealing time on particle size and morphology were investigated. Magnetic properties of NiFe2O4 nanoparticles were tested. The formation mechanism of nanoparticles by solid‐state reaction was also discussed. The results indicated that the synthesized nickel ferrite particles were of nanometer size with different morphologies by slight variation of the reaction conditions. The solid‐state reaction technique is a simple, convenient, inexpensive and effective preparation method of NiFe2O4 in high yield.
Photodynamic Antifungal Chemotherapy†
Authors: Calzavara‐Pinton Piergiacomo , Rossi M. Teresa , Sala Raffaella , Venturini Marina
Published: February 2012

The growing resistance against antifungal drugs has renewed the search for alternative treatment modalities, and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) seems to be a potential candidate. Preliminary findings have demonstrated that dermatophytes and yeasts can be effectively sensitized in vitro and in vivo by administering photosensitizers (PSs) belonging to four chemical groups: phenothiazine dyes, porphyrins and phthalocyanines, as well as aminolevulinic acid, which, while not a PS in itself, is effectively metabolized into protoporphyrin IX. Besides efficacy, PDT has shown other benefits. First, the sensitizers used are highly selective, i.e., fungi can be killed at combinations of drug and light doses much lower than that needed for a similar effect on keratinocytes. Second, all investigated PSs lack genotoxic and mutagenic activity. Finally, the hazard of selection of drug resistant fungal strains has been rarely reported. We review the studies published to date on antifungal applications of PDT, with special focus on yeast, and aim to raise awareness of this area of research, which has the potential to make a significant impact in future treatment of fungal infections.