bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drug binding to Sudlow's site I impairs allosterically human serum heme‐albumin‐catalyzed peroxynitrite detoxification
Authors: Ascenzi Paolo , Bolli Alessandro , Gullotta Francesca , Fanali Gabriella , Fasano Mauro
Published: October 2010

Heme endows human serum albumin (HSA) with globin‐like reactivity and spectroscopic properties. Here, the effect of chlorpropamide, digitoxin, furosemide, indomethacin, phenylbutazone, sulfisoxazole, tolbutamide, and warfarin on peroxynitrite isomerization to NOby ferric HSA‐heme (HSA‐heme‐Fe(III)) is reported. Drugs binding to Sudlow's site I impair dose‐dependently peroxynitrite isomerization by HSA‐heme‐Fe(III). The allosteric modulation of HSA‐heme‐Fe(III)‐mediated peroxynitrite isomerization by drugs has been ascribed to the pivotal role of Tyr150, a residue that either provides a polar environment in Sudlow's site I or protrudes into the heme cleft (i.e., the fatty acid site 1, FA1), depending on ligand occupancy of either sites. © 2010 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 62(10): 776–780, 2010
Bone formation on carbon nanotube composite
Authors: Bhattacharya Mrinal , Wutticharoenmongkol‐Thitiwongsawet Patcharaporn , Hamamoto Darryl T. , Lee Dongjin , Cui Tianhong , Prasad Hari S. , Ahmad Mansur
Published: October 2010

The effects of a layer‐by‐layer assembled carbon nanotube composite (CNT‐comp) on osteoblasts in vitro and bone tissue in vivo in rats were studied. The effects of CNT‐comp on osteoblasts were compared against the effects by commercially pure titanium (cpTi) and tissue culture dishes. Cell proliferation on the CNT‐comp and cpTi were similar. However, cell differentiation, measured by alkaline phosphatase activity and matrix mineralization, was better on the CNT‐comp. When implanted in critical‐sized rat calvarial defect, the CNT‐comp permitted bone formation and bone repair without signs of rejection or inflammation. These data indicate that CNT‐comp may be a promising substrate for use as a bone implant or as a scaffold for tissue engineering. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2010.
Effects of patellar position and defect healing on in vitro stifle joint kinematics following removal of the central one‐third of the patellar tendon in an ovine model
Authors: Bertollo Nicky , Bell David James , Yu Yan , Walsh William Robert
Published: October 2010

Harvest of the central one‐third of the patella tendon (PT) is routinely performed for anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). Patella infera may ensue. In this study we unilaterally resected the central one‐third of the PT in 20 sheep, without reconstructing or defunctionalizing the native ACL, and examined the effects at 3, 6, 12, and 24 weeks postoperatively on PT length, histological appearance of the donor defect and in vitro stifle joint kinematics. Mean length increases (p > 0.263) in the operated tendons of 0.3%, 2.8%, 0.5%, and 2.4% were observed at 3, 6, 12, and 24 weeks. A significant proximal shift of the patella correlated well with a mean 2.35° retardation of patellar flexion (r = 0.440, p = 0.001). A mean net 4.9° decrease in medial patellar tilt was also observed (p < 0.001), but was not coupled with changes in tibial rotation. Donor defect tissue showed a distinct progression of healing with time, remodeling from dense scar tissue at 3 weeks to bundles of well‐organized collagen enveloped by vascularized loose connective tissue at 24 weeks but was not associated with the restoration of kinematics. These results suggest that resection of the central one‐third of the PT and leaving the defect open in the ovine stifle joint may be associated with increased PT length and changes in patellar kinematics which do not recover 6 months postoperatively. The lack of patella infera may render this animal model unsuitable for the interpretation of joint kinematics following PT resection for human ACLR. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:572–581, 2011
Potential involvement of SIRT1 in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis through the modulation of chondrocyte gene expressions
Authors: Fujita Norifumi , Matsushita Takehiko , Ishida Kazunari , Kubo Seiji , Matsumoto Tomoyuki , Takayama Koji , Kurosaka Masahiro , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: October 2010

SIRT1 has been implicated as a key factor in aging‐related diseases. Nevertheless, the role of SIRT1 in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA) is still unknown. We examined the expression of SIRT1 in cartilage samples and the effect of SIRT1 inhibition on chondrocyte gene expression changes to elucidate the role of SIRT1 in chondrocytes. SIRT1 expression was examined using cartilage samples from patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty and femoral head replacement by immunohistochemistry. The effect of SIRT1 inhibition by siRNA on chondrocyte gene expression was examined by real‐time PCR and Western blotting. SIRT1 expression was barely detectable in the severely degenerated cartilage while SIRT1 was clearly expressed in the less damaged cartilage. The inhibition of SIRT1 by siRNA induced OA‐like gene expression changes, namely the significant down‐regulation ofaggrecanand up‐regulation ofCOL10A1andADAMTS‐5. Our observations suggest that SIRT1 expression decreases with development of OA and the reduction of SIRT1 in chondrocytes may cause chondrocyte hypertrophy and cartilage matrix loss. SIRT1 might play important roles in the pathogenesis of OA. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:511–515, 2011
Surveying the traumatic stress literature: The effective use of bibliographic databases in preparing reviews and meta‐analyses
Authors: Lerner Fred , Hamblen Jessica L.
Published: October 2010

The value of a systematic review or meta‐analysis depends upon the care with which it is designed and conducted. A major factor in this is the literature search that identifies the articles to be reviewed. Careful selection of bibliographic databases and the use of well‐designed search strategies based on the controlled vocabularies contained in published thesauri are essential to ensure retrieval of all relevant articles. This commentary offers suggestions for identifying the literature to be searched, designing a suitable search strategy, using a controlled vocabulary, and describing the bibliographic methodology underlying a systematic review or meta‐analysis.
Topical ciprofloxacin is superior to topical saline and systemic antibiotics in the treatment of tympanostomy tube otorrhea in children: The results of a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Heslop Anders , Lildholdt Torben , Gammelgaard Niels , Ovesen Therese
Published: October 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To compare the clinical failure rates among children with otorrhea through tympanostomy tubes treated with topical or systemic antibiotics versus topical saline.

Study Design:

Randomized, double‐blind, controlled patient study.

Methods:

A three‐armed randomized clinical trial using topical ciprofloxacin or oral amoxicillin or topical saline. The primary outcome was treatment failure defined as presence of otorrhea in at least one ear after 7 days of treatment.

Results:

The treatment failure rates were 23% and 70% in the group treated with topical ciprofloxacin and oral amoxicillin, respectively. Treatment failures were seen in 58% of children treated with topical saline. Thus, topical ciprofloxacin significantly reduced treatment failures compared to both oral amoxicillin and topical saline. The most frequent bacteria isolated from treatment failures in general were streptococci and Moraxella catarrhalis.

Conclusions:

The significant effect of topical ciprofloxacin is probably related to a higher local concentration of antibiotics in the middle ear rather than the result of mechanical rinsing and dissolution of the bacterial load. Laryngoscope, 2010
Bilateral vascular supply in juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas
Authors: Wu Arthur W. , Mowry Sarah E. , Vinuela Fernando , Abemayor Elliot , Wang Marilene B.
Published: October 2010

Objectives:

Juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA) is a rare, benign tumor of the nasopharynx, exclusively affecting males in their teens and twenties. Historically, it has been thought that JNAs primarily receive their blood supply from the ipsilateral external carotid system. We demonstrate in our case series and literature review that bilateral vascular supply in these tumors is, in fact, very common.

Study Design:

Case series and literature review.

Methods:

We present four consecutive cases of JNA in a three‐year period from a major tertiary care center. A literature review on the topic of vascular supply in JNA was performed.

Results:

The first patient's preoperative angiogram demonstrated only right‐sided blood supply. However, significant bleeding was encountered, and an intraoperative angiogram showed significant new vascularization from the left ascending pharyngeal artery (APA), which was embolized. The surgery was completed successfully without further significant hemorrhage after converting to an open approach. Preoperative angiograms from the next three patients demonstrated bilateral vascular supply. Embolization and endoscopic resection was successful in these cases. Review of the literature demonstrates that bilateral vascular supply is not commonly documented; however, it may be more frequent than previously thought. Other series demonstrate bilateral vascularity from 0% to 100%. Combining patients from nine studies, including our own, we found that 57 of 157 (36%) patients had tumors with bilateral vascular supply.

Conclusions:

Bilateral vascular supply may be an underappreciated factor in JNA, and thorough radiographic investigation via angiography of bilateral carotid systems should be routinely done preoperatively. Laryngoscope, 2011
Covering the below‐knee amputation stump with the pedicled dorsalis pedis flap from the ipsilateral foot: A case report
Authors: Motomiya Makoto , Iwasaki Norimasa , Tazaki Yasushi , Nishida Kinya , Funakoshi Tadanao , Minami Akio
Published: October 2010

It is important to preserve the length, appropriate durable skin, and sensation of the stump when performing below‐knee amputation to achieve functional ambulation with a prosthesis. There are many reports of reconstruction procedures using microvascular surgery to preserve the optimum length of the amputation stump for prosthesis; however, free tissue reconstruction is necessary to accompany with the donor site morbidity. In this report, we describe our experience with a below‐knee amputation and stump covering using the pedicled dorsalis pedis flap from the no longer usable foot in the case of a severe osteomyelitis of a lower extremity after highly contaminated Gustilo type IIIB fracture. We achieved a well‐healed amputated stump with enough length for a prosthesis and for protective sensation. The pedicled dorsalis pedis flap is easily elevated without microvascular anastomosis and is one useful option for the reconstruction of the below‐knee amputated stump in the specific case. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.
Comparing community and specialty provider‐based recruitment in a randomized clinical trial: Clinical trial in fecal incontinence
Authors: Whitebird Robin R. , Bliss Donna Zimmaro. , Savik Kay , Lowry Ann , Jung Hans‐Joachim G.
Published: October 2010

Recruitment of participants to clinical trials remains a significant challenge, especially for research addressing topics of a sensitive nature such as fecal incontinence (FI). In the Fiber Study, a randomized controlled trial on symptom management for FI, we successfully enrolled 189 community‐living adults through collaborations with specialty‐based and community‐based settings, each employing methods tailored to the organizational characteristics of their site. Results show that using the two settings increased racial and ethnic diversity of the sample and inclusion of informal caregivers. There were no differential effects on enrollment, final eligibility, or completion of protocol by site. Strategic collaborations with complementary sites can achieve sample recruitment goals for clinical trials on topics that are sensitive or known to be underreported. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:500–511, 2010
Clinical features, molecular diagnosis, and treatment outcome of infants with leukemia in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Shih‐Hsiang , Yang Chao‐Ping , Hung Iou‐Jih , Jaing Tang‐Her , Shih Lee‐Yung , Tsai Ming‐Horng
Published: October 2010

Background

Infant leukemia is rare and quite distinct from other childhood leukemias. Differentiating between leukemia and transient myeloproliferative disorder (TMD) in phenotypically normal infants is sometimes difficult. The clinical features and molecular analyses for the fusion transcripts of mixed lineage leukemia (MLL) gene rearrangement in infant leukemia have not been well documented in the Chinese population.

Procedure

Forty‐five consecutive infants diagnosed with leukemia between 1995 and 2007 in a tertiary medical center in Taiwan were studied. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was diagnosed in 23 infants, acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in 21 (including TMD in 4), and juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) in 1.

Results

The median white count at diagnosis was higher in ALL than in AML (154.4 × 109/l vs. 58.3 × 109/l, P = 0.05). Chromosome 11q23/MLL abnormalities were present in 77% of ALL and 31% of AML. The 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) in infant ALL and AML showed no difference (18% vs. 12%, respectively). The only independent predictor of an adverse prognosis among infants diagnosed with ALL was high presenting white count ≥ 100 × 109/l (P = 0.05). However, no factor was associated with an adverse outcome for infants with AML.

Conclusions

The molecular assessments and prognostic factors of infant leukemia in Taiwan mirror those in developed Western countries. Continued molecular investigations and development of more effective therapies are needed. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:1264–1271. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Child‐related determinants of health‐related quality of life in children with brain tumours 1 year after diagnosis
Authors: Penn Anthony , Shortman Robert I. , Lowis Stephen P. , Stevens Michael C.G. , Hunt Linda P. , McCarter Renee J. , Curran Andrew L. , Sharples Peta M.
Published: October 2010

Objectives

Infratentorial tumour site and health‐related quality of life (HRQL) 1 month after diagnosis have been shown to predict HRQL 1 year after diagnosis in children with brain tumours. This study aimed to identify additional early child‐related determinants of parent‐ and child‐report HRQL.

Methods

Longitudinal prospective study. Semi‐structured interviews took place approximately 1 and 12 months after diagnosis. HRQL was measured using the self‐ and parent‐report Pediatric Quality of Life Scales (PedsQL 4.0) Total Scale Score and Health Utilities Index Mark 3 (HUI3) multi‐attribute utility function. Child variables included performance and verbal IQ, general memory, selective attention executive function, behaviour problems, adaptive behaviour, symptoms of depression and anxiety and event related anxiety. Univariate analyses were used to identify potential early predictors of HRQL. Regression analysis was then used to identify the most important determinants of HRQL at 1 year.

Results

Thirty‐five patients completed the 12‐month interviews. Multivariate analysis showed infratentorial tumour site remained an important determinant of HRQL 1 year after diagnosis. Infratentorial tumour site and selective attention at 1 month generally best predicted poor self‐ and parent‐report HRQL at 12 months. Adaptive behaviour and performance IQ may be important.

Conclusion

Selective attention and infratentorial tumour site are most important in predicting both parent‐ and self‐report HRQL at 1 year after diagnosis. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings. Cognitive remediation or/and pharmacological intervention, particularly aimed at children with infratentorial tumours may improve attention and subsequently HRQL and both merit further investigation. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:1377–1385. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment of childhood kaposiform hemangioendothelioma with sirolimus
Authors: Blatt Julie , Stavas Joseph , Moats‐Staats Billie , Woosley John , Morrell Dean S.
Published: October 2010

Sirolimus (Rapamune), a mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor, which has been used extensively in children following solid organ transplantation, has been demonstrated to have anti‐angiogenic activity in pre‐clinical models. Limited experience suggests that it may have application to the treatment of vascular lesions. We describe our experience with a 1‐year‐old female with a kaposiform hemangioendothelioma and Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon who had rapid and dramatic response to sirolimus (0.1 mg/kg/day). This case provides further rationale for clinical trials of sirolimus in the treatment of vascular lesions. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:1396–1398. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitative analysis of major dibenzocyclooctane lignans in schisandrae fructus by online TLC‐DART‐MS
Authors: Kim Hye Jin , Oh Myung Sook , Hong Jongki , Jang Young Pyo
Published: October 2010

Introduction – Direct analysis in real time (DART) ion source is a powerful ionising technique for the quick and easy detection of various organic molecules without any sample preparation steps, but the lack of quantitation capacity limits its extensive use in the field of phytochemical analysis.

Objective – To improvise a new system which utilize DART‐MS as a hyphenated detector for quantitation.

Methodology – A total extract of Schisandra chinensis fruit was analyzed on a TLC plate and three major lignan compounds were quantitated by three different methods of UV densitometry, TLC‐DART‐MS and HPLC‐UV to compare the efficiency of each method. To introduce the TLC plate into the DART ion source at a constant velocity, a syringe pump was employed. The DART‐MS total ion current chromatogram was recorded for the entire TLC plate. The concentration of each lignan compound was calculated from the calibration curve established with standard compound.

Results – Gomisin A, gomisin N and schisandrin were well separated on a silica‐coated TLC plate and the specific ion current chromatograms were successfully acquired from the TLC‐DART‐MS system. The TLC‐DART‐MS system for the quantitation of natural products showed better linearity and specificity than TLC densitometry, and consumed less time and solvent than conventional HPLC method.

Conclusion – A hyphenated system for the quantitation of phytochemicals from crude herbal drugs was successfully established. This system was shown to have a powerful analytical capacity for the prompt and efficient quantitation of natural products from crude drugs. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Binding analysis of peptides that recognize preferentially cis‐azobenzene groups of synthetic polymers
Authors: Chen J. , Serizawa T. , Komiyama M.
Published: October 2010

Peptides identified by the PD method against a film surface composed of azobenzene‐containing synthetic polymers were characterized by QCM measurements. Among the four peptides analyzed, the c16 peptide with the sequence Trp‐His‐Thr‐Leu‐Pro‐Asn‐Ala showed the highest binding affinity to the films rich in cis‐azobenzene groups. SPR served to determine the association/dissociation constants of the c16 peptide against the trans‐ and cis‐azobenzene groups. The binding constants were estimated to be 1.3 × 105 and 1.4 × 106/M, respectively, indicating a high specificity of the c16 peptide for cis‐azobenzene conformer. Then mutants of the c16 peptide were synthesized and characterized to gain information on the structural requirements for the cis‐form specificity. An Ala‐scan clearly revealed that all the amino acid residues of the c16 peptide were essential for the specificity. More importantly, the results with peptides of inverted sequence and containing Gly insertions confirmed that the specificity is strictly derived from the primary sequence of the c16 peptide. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facile synthesis of peptide nucleic acids and peptide nucleic acid‐peptide conjugates on an automated peptide synthesizer
Authors: Joshi Rajendra , Jha Deepti , Su Wu , Engelmann Joern
Published: October 2010

Peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) are DNA mimics with a neutral peptide backbone instead of the negatively charged sugar phosphates. PNAs exhibit several attractive features such as high chemical and thermal stability, resistance to enzymatic degradation, and stable binding to their RNA or DNA targets in a sequence‐specific manner. Therefore, they are widely used in molecular diagnosis of antisense‐targeted therapeutic drugs or probes and in pharmaceutical applications. However, the main hindrance to the effective use of PNAs is their poor uptake by cells as well as the difficult and laborious chemical synthesis. In order to achieve an efficient delivery of PNAs into cells, there are already many published reports of peptides being used for transport across the cell membrane. In this protocol, we describe the automated as well as cost‐effective semi‐automated synthesis of PNAs and PNA‐peptide constructs on an automated peptide synthesizer. The facile synthesis of PNAs will be helpful in generating PNA libraries usable, e.g. for high‐throughput screening in biomolecular studies. Efficient synthetic schemes, the automated procedure, the reduced consumption of costly reagents, and the high purity of the products are attractive features of the reported procedure. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transit migration: A blurred and politicised concept
Authors: Düvell Franck
Published: October 2010

This article examines first the emergence and construction of the concept of transit migration and the political framework and discourses that brought about this concept. It goes on analysing how this reinforces the EU's efforts to externalise its migration policy and integrate non‐EU countries into a comprehensive migration control policy. Second, it critically surveys the state of the art, analyses causes and conditions of transit migration, identifies its geography and discusses some methodological and analytical pitfalls and difficulties of researching transit migration. Finally, in the conclusions a structuralist approach is taken and it is suggested that a clear‐cut typology could be developed by rigid comparison. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cytotoxic effects induced by combination of heliantriol B2 and dequalinium against human leukemic cell lines
Authors: Vela Gurovic M. Soledad , Díaz Lanza A. María , Boyano Adánez María del Carmen , Estañ Omaña M. Cristina , Gañán Gómez Irene , Murray A. Paula , Sancho López Pilar
Published: October 2010

Natural occurring compounds are considered an important source of antitumoral agents. In the present study, the cytotoxic potential of three pentacyclic triterpenes isolated from Chuquiraga erinacea (Asteraceae), against the human leukemic cell lines NB4 and K562 was assessed. Heliantriol B2 (HB2) showed the highest cytotoxic activity after 24 h treatment showing IC50 values of 1.98 ± 0.12 µm and 3.52 ± 0.14 µm for NB4 and K562 cells, respectively. This activity was higher than that of the reference compound dequalinium (DQA). Apoptosis and necrosis induced by HB2 in both NB4 and K562 cell lines were analysed by Annexin V/PI labeling. Mitochondrial alterations including reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitochondrial transmembrane potential (ΔΨm) were also tested. The results demonstrated that HB2 induced cell death by apoptosis and necrosis and showed enhanced cytotoxic effects in combination with DQA. Besides, HB2 induced ROS overproduction in NB4 cells and a slight decrease of ΔΨm. Consequently, our findings prompt further studies on the HB2 mechanism of action and its selectivity to tumor cells in order to assess the potential of HB2 as an agent for cancer treatment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A theoretical study on decomposition and rearrangement reaction mechanism of trichloroacetyl chloride (CCl3COCl)
Authors: Shankar R. , Kolandaivel P. , Senthilkumar K.
Published: October 2010

In the present study, the possible decomposition and rearrangement reaction profile of trichloroacetyl chloride have been studied using UMP2/6‐311++G (2d, 2p) level of ab initio and UB3LYP/6‐311++G (2d, 2p) level of density functional theory methods. The harmonic vibrational frequencies were calculated at the same level of theory used for the characterization of stationary points and zero‐point vibrational energy corrections. The potential energy barrier and activation energy between each step of the reaction have been calculated for the seven possible reaction pathways (Ia–c, IIa–b, IIIa–b). The trichloroacetyl chloride is an asymmetric ketone where the two α bonds of acetyl chloride, the CC and CCl bonds are strong with dissociation energy of 72 kcal/mol. The phosgene (COCl2), dichloroketene (CCl2CO), carbon dichloride (CCl2), carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), and carbon monoxide (CO) are the major dominant products on the decomposition of the trichloroacetyl chloride. These resultant products are more hazards than the parent trichloroacetyl chloride molecules. The positive value of the reaction energy indicate that the overall reaction profile is found to be endothermic at the UMP2 and UBLYP/6‐311++G(2d, 2p) levels of theory, respectively, at UMP2/6‐311G** optimized geometry. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Quantum confinement effects on the surface enhanced Raman spectra of hybrid systems molecule‐TiO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Tarakeshwar Pilarisetty , Finkelstein‐Shapiro Daniel , Rajh Tijana , Mujica Vladimiro
Published: October 2010

The role of quantum confinement, size, and solvent effects on the surface enhanced Raman spectra of biologically important molecules absorbed on semiconducting titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles is investigated using density functional calculations. The results obtained for both the gas phase and solvated systems indicate significant changes in the electronic structure and the Raman spectra of molecules like formic acid and dopamine, when they are adsorbed on small TiO2 nanoparticles. A number of distinctive features that are determined by the formation of a charge‐transfer complex at the nanoparticle‐molecule interface can be noted in the Raman spectra. Both the spectra and the electronic properties are strongly size dependent and are also sensitive to the presence of the solvent and the nature of adsorbate interaction. Although these calculations reinforce recent experimental findings on the role of quantum confinement, they also pose new questions about the extension of collective effects and the effect of pH and other environmental variables. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2010
O‐loss photodissociation of the OCS+ ion in the low‐lying electronic states studied using multiconfiguration second‐order perturbation theory
Authors: Dong Hua , Chen Bo‐Zhen , Huang Ming‐Bao , Chang Hai‐Bo
Published: October 2010

The CASPT2 potential energy curves (PECs) for O‐loss dissociation from the X2Π, A2Π, B2Σ+, C2Σ+, 14Σ−, 12Σ−, and 14Π states of the OCS+ ion were calculated. The PEC calculations indicate that X2Π, 14Σ−, 12Σ−, and 14Π correlate with CS+(X2Σ+) + O(3Pg); A2Π and B2Σ+ correlate with CS+(A2Π) + O(3Pg); and C2Σ+ probably correlates with CS+(X2Σ+) + O(1Dg). The CASSCF minimum energy crossing point (MECP) calculations were performed for the C2Σ+/14Σ−, C2Σ+/14Π, A2Π/14Σ−, A2Π/12Σ−, A2Π/14Π, and B2Σ+/12Σ− state pairs and the spin‐obit couplings were calculated at the located MECPs. A conical intersection point between the B2Σ+ and C2Σ+ potential energy surfaces was found at the CASSCF level. Based on our calculations, seven O‐loss predissociation processes of the C2Σ+ state are suggested and an appearance potential value of 7.13 eV for the CS+ + O product group is predicted. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Bounds to electronic expectation values for atomic and molecular systems
Authors: Marmorino M. G. , Cassella Kayleigh
Published: October 2010

A generalization of a method to calculate lower bounds to expectation values of non‐negative observables is presented. We consider bounds to three electronic expectation values 〈r2〉, 〈r〉, and 〈r−1〉 in the helium atom as an example. For both 〈r2〉 and 〈r〉, we are able to calculate improved lower bounds. The lower bound to 〈r−1〉 does not improve, but we are able to calculate an upper bound which is much closer to the expectation value than the lower bound. Although our generalization allows for improved bounds and/or upper bounds, these bounds to general observables are much less precise than energy bounds and even the expectation values calculated from variational wave functions. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
A robot to detect and control broad‐leaved dock (Rumex obtusifolius L.) in grassland
Authors: van Evert Frits K. , Samsom Joost , Polder Gerrit , Vijn Marcel , Dooren Hendrik‐Jan van , Lamaker Arjan , van der Heijden Gerie W.A.M. , Kempenaar Corné , van der Zalm Ton , Lotz Lambertus A.P.
Published: October 2010

Broad‐leaved dock is a common and troublesome grassland weed with a wide geographic distribution. In conventional farming the weed is normally controlled by using a selective herbicide, but in organic farming manual removal is the best option to control this weed. The objective of our work was to develop a robot that can navigate a pasture, detect broad‐leaved dock, and remove any weeds found. A prototype robot was constructed that navigates by following a predefined path using centimeter‐precision global positioning system (GPS). Broad‐leaved dock is detected using a camera and image processing. Once detected, weeds are destroyed by a cutting device. Tests of aspects of the system showed that path following accuracy is adequate but could be improved through tuning of the controller or adoption of a dynamic vehicle model, that the success rate of weed detection is highest when the grass is short and when the broad‐leaved dock plants are in rosette form, and that 75% of weeds removed did not grow back. An on‐farm field test of the complete system resulted in detection of 124 weeds of 134 encountered (93%), while a weed removal action was performed eight times without a weed being present. Effective weed control is considered to be achieved when the center of the weeder is positioned within 0.1 m of the taproot of the weed—this occurred in 73% of the cases. We conclude that the robot is an effective instrument to detect and control broad‐leaved dock under the conditions encountered on a commercial farm. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Memory functioning in post‐traumatic stress disorder: objective findings versus subjective complaints
Authors: Carlozzi Noelle E. , Reese‐Melancon Celinda , Thomas David G.
Published: October 2010

Although memory complaints are common in post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), the only published study of objective and subjective memory in PTSD by Roca and Freeman indicates that subjective complaints may not accurately reflect objective performance. The present study examined memory in 21 PTSD patients, 20 combat controls and 23 non‐combat controls using two objective memory measures (Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test; Backward Digit Span) and one subjective measure (Memory Functioning Questionnaire). Analysis of variances (ANOVAs) and analysis of co‐variances generally did not reveal group differences for objective memory performance. For subjective memory complaints, ANOVAs indicated group differences; PTSD participants reported more memory problems than controls. These differences disappeared, however, when depression was included as a covariate. Also, we provide some preliminary evidence that depression may mediate the relationship between PTSD symptomatology and subjective memory complaints. Findings suggest that reductions in depressive symptomatology in PTSD may be associated with decreased subjective memory complaints. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Costs and benefits of supportive versus disciplinary emotion regulation strategies in teachers
Authors: Barber Larissa K. , Grawitch Matthew J. , Carson Russell L. , Tsouloupas Costas N.
Published: October 2010

Using 659 K‐12 teachers, this study explored the extent to which well‐being outcomes were affected by differential emotion regulation strategies (surface versus deep acting) for positive emotion expression (supportive display rules) versus negative emotion expression (disciplinary display rules). Analyses showed that almost half of the teachers reported disciplinary display rules as important for effectively doing their job (as compared with 97% for supportive display rules), and these perceptions were associated with increased disciplinary surface and deep acting strategies. A confirmatory factor analysis supported the proposed four‐factor structure of emotional regulation strategies, and provided the best fit in relation to two alternative models (surface versus deep acting and supportive versus disciplinary). A structural equation model revealed that both supportive surface acting and disciplinary surface acting positively predicted emotional exhaustion, and both negatively predicted personal accomplishment. However, only supportive deep acting had a positive relationship with personal accomplishment. Disciplinary deep acting was unrelated to the study outcomes. These findings indicate that disciplinary emotion regulation may have the same costs to emotional exhaustion in teachers as supportive regulation, but fewer benefits in terms of increasing personal accomplishment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gaucher disease in sheep
Authors: Karageorgos Litsa , Lancaster Malcolm J. , Nimmo Judith S. , Hopwood John J.
Published: October 2010

Gaucher disease, an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the β‐glucocerebrosidase gene, was recently discovered in sheep on a “Southdown” sheep stud in Victoria, Australia. Clinical signs include neuropathy, thickened leathery skin, and ichthyosis, with lambs unable to stand from birth. Affected lambs were found to be deficient in glucocerebrosidase activity, and mutational analysis found them to be homozygous for the missense mutations c.1142G>A (p.C381Y) and c.1400C>T (p.P467L). In addition, four silent mutations were detected (c.777C>A [p.Y259Y], c1203A>G [p.Q401Q], c.1335T>C [p.I445I], c.1464C>G [p.L488L]). The human equivalent [C342Y] to the C381Y mutation leads to an acute neuronopathic phenotype in patients. Identification of an acute neuronopathic form of Gaucher disease in sheep provides a large animal model that will enable studies of pathology and evaluation of therapies to treat this common lysosomal storage disorder.
Excess risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with porphyria: a population‐based cohort study
Authors: Tollånes Mette Christophersen , Aarsand Aasne Karine , Sandberg Sverre
Published: October 2010

The porphyrias comprise a heterogeneous group of rare, primarily hereditary, metabolic diseases caused by a partial deficiency in one of the eight enzymes involved in the heme biosynthesis. Our aim was to assess whether acute or cutaneous porphyria has been associated with excess risks of adverse pregnancy outcomes. A population‐based cohort study was designed by record linkage between the Norwegian Porphyria Register, covering 70% of all known porphyria patients in Norway, and the Medical Birth Registry of Norway, based on all births in Norway during 1967–2006. The risks of the adverse pregnancy outcomes preeclampsia, delivery by caesarean section, low birth weight, premature delivery, small for gestational age (SGA), perinatal death, and congenital malformations were compared between porphyric mothers and the rest of the population. The 200 mothers with porphyria had 398 singletons during the study period, whereas the 1,100,391 mothers without porphyria had 2,275,317 singletons. First‐time mothers with active acute porphyria had an excess risk of perinatal death [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 4.9, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.5–16.0], as did mothers with the hereditable form of porphyria cutanea tarda (PCT) (3.0, 1.2–7.7). Sporadic PCT was associated with an excess risk of SGA [adjusted relative risk (RR) 2.0, 1.2–3.4], and for first‐time mothers, low birth weight (adjusted OR 3.4, 1.2–10.0) and premature delivery (3.5, 1.2–10.5) in addition. The findings suggest women with porphyria should be monitored closely during pregnancy.
The proteins involved in sucrose synthesis in the marine cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 are encoded by two genes transcribed from a gene cluster
Authors: Cumino Andrea C. , Perez-Cenci Macarena , Giarrocco Laura E. , Salerno Graciela L.
Published: October 2010

It has been reported that higher plants and cyanobacteria synthesize sucrose (Suc) by a similar sequential action of sucrose‐phosphate synthase (SPS) and sucrose‐phosphate phosphatase (SPP). In the genome of the marine unicellular cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC 7002 there is a sequence that was not annotated as a putative SPP encoding gene (sppA), although the sequence was available. In this study, we functionally characterize the sppA gene of that strain and demonstrate that it is cotranscribed with spsA, the SPS encoding gene. This is the first report on the coordination of Suc synthesis gene expression in an oxygenic‐photosynthetic organism.
Cognitive Dysfunction in Cats: A Syndrome we Used to Dismiss as ‘Old Age’
Authors: Landsberg Gary M , Denenberg Sagi , Araujo Joseph A
Published: October 2010

Practical relevance Cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) is a widely accepted diagnosis in dogs, with established treatment options. In cats, however, our understanding of cognitive dysfunction is still being shaped by ongoing research in the field, and limited treatment options are available. Recent clinical studies indicate that old age in the cat is accompanied by increased behavioural signs such as wandering, vocalization and night-time activity that are not attributable to identifiable medical problems. It is essential, therefore, that veterinarians include behavioural well-being in the routine care of senior cats.

Patient group While the exact age of onset is not established, studies suggest that age-related behavioural changes consistent with cognitive dysfunction are prevalent in cats as early as 10 years of age and that prevalence increases significantly in older cats.

Clinical challenges The diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction requires the identification of geriatric behavioural changes that are not caused by other medical problems, although the two may not be mutually exclusive. Therefore, the practitioner must rely heavily on owner reports and history to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment. The absence of any approved dietary or pharmaceutical interventions for cognitive dysfunction adds a further challenge, although several possibilities exist.

Evidence base This article draws on recent research that has produced neuropathological, cognitive and behavioural evidence for cognitive dysfunction in aging cats. As an impetus to further our understanding of this disease and potential treatment options, the authors propose a behavioural checklist that might aid in the clinical diagnosis of feline CDS and discuss treatment options that have proven successful in the canine counterpart of this disease.
Food Allergy in the Cat: A Diagnosis by Elimination
Authors: Bryan Jacqueline , Frank Linda A
Published: October 2010

Practical relevance Food allergy is recognized as a cause of non-seasonal dermatologic disease and pruritus in cats, though its exact prevalence remains unknown. Feline food allergy can also be associated with gastrointestinal, neurologic, respiratory and behavioral components.

Patient group There are no breed, sex or age predispositions for developing food allergy, though there is some evidence that the Siamese and its crosses may be at increased risk.

Clinical challenges Food allergy cannot be diagnosed simply on the basis of the distribution of pruritus, and many of the dermatologic reaction patterns observed in affected cats, such as miliary dermatitis, eosinophilic granuloma complex and alopecia, may be seen in cats with flea allergy and atopy; in some cases, cats may have concurrent allergic conditions. The only way to definitively diagnose food allergy is to identify a causative food component through a food elimination trial. However, palatability and client compliance can each be a problem; specifically, many owners are unwilling to perform a provocation challenge, which is required to confirm a suspected food allergy. For cats in which the existence of a food allergy is confirmed, a suitable maintenance diet then needs to be fed for the remainder of the patient's life.

Evidence base Recent literature has revealed that there is marked variability in the clinical picture, response to treatment and outcome in food-allergic cats. This article reviews published literature and highlights clinically relevant observations pertinent to feline food allergy.
Nasopharyngeal Trichobezoar Foreign Body in a Cat
Authors: Haynes Kristin J , Anderson Susan E , Laszlo Marika P
Published: October 2010

Case summary A 5-year-old male neutered indoor cat presented for evaluation and treatment of an acute onset of nasal discharge and open-mouth breathing of 3 days' duration. He had been treated for asthma prior to presentation, but his clinical signs were more consistent with upper airway disease. Thoracic radiographs were suggestive of asthma. However, a soft tissue mass was noted in the nasopharynx on a lateral cervical radiograph. Nasopharyngeal examination revealed the mass to be a trichobezoar (hair ball) lodged in the nasopharynx, removal of which led to resolution of clinical signs. The cat re-presented with a second nasopharyngeal trichobezoar approximately 1 year later, which was also successfully removed.

Clinical significance Nasopharyngeal disease has myriad potential infectious, inflammatory and neoplastic etiologies. However, simpler causes such as foreign bodies can be considered in cases of acute-onset nasopharyngeal disease. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of a nasopharyngeal trichobezoar foreign body in a cat.
Long‐Chain Omega‐3 Fatty Acids and Women's Mental Health in the Perinatal Period and Beyond
Authors: Kendall‐Tackett Kathleen
Published: October 2010

Recent research has shown that depression and a range of physical illnesses, including heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes, have an inflammatory etiology. The long‐chain omega‐3 fatty acids (omega‐3s) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which are found in fish and fish‐oil products, may protect against these illnesses, in part because they lower inflammation. This article reviews the recent research on omega‐3s and women's mental health, with a particular focus on the perinatal period. These studies include population studies examining fish consumption and studies testing the efficacy of EPA and DHA as treatments for depression. Although the findings are mixed, the majority of studies indicate that EPA has efficacy in treating depression either alone or in combination with DHA and/or antidepressant medications. The role of DHA alone in mental health is less clear, but it is generally combined with EPA and appears to have a beneficial effect. In moderate doses, EPA and DHA appear safe for pregnant and postpartum women, and they are well tolerated by patients.
Maternal Nutrition and Perinatal Outcomes
Authors: Barger Mary K.
Published: October 2010

Diet and patterns of eating during pregnancy can affect perinatal outcomes through direct physiologic effects or by stressing the fetus in ways that permanently affect phenotype. Supplements are not a magic nutritional remedy, and evidence of profound benefit for most supplements remains inconclusive. However, research supports calcium supplements to decrease preeclampsia. Following a low glycemic, Mediterranean‐type diet appears to improve ovulatory infertility, decrease preterm birth, and decrease the risk of gestational diabetes. Although women in the United States have adequate levels of most nutrients, subpopulations are low in vitamin D, folate, and iodine. Vitamin D has increasingly been shown to be important not only for bone health, but also for glucose regulation, immune function, and good uterine contractility in labor. To ensure adequate vitamin and micronutrient intake, especially of folate before conception, all reproductive age women should take a multivitamin daily. In pregnancy, health care providers need to assess women's diets, give them weight gain recommendations based on their body mass index measurement, and advise them to eat a Mediterranean diet rich in omega‐3 fatty acids (ingested as low–mercury risk fatty fish or supplements), ingest adequate calcium, and achieve adequate vitamin D levels through sun exposure or supplements. Health care providers should continue to spend time on nutrition assessment and counseling.
Practical Advice for Caring for Women With Eating Disorders During the Perinatal Period
Authors: Harris Amy A.
Published: October 2010

Pregnancy is a critical time for women struggling with disordered eating and weight concerns. For the majority of women with eating disorders, symptoms improve during pregnancy. Other women, particularly those with either subclinical or binge eating disorders, are at risk for an escalation of pathologic behaviors, putting both mother and fetus at risk for negative birth outcomes. Routinely screening for eating disorders will help identify those women who will most benefit from specialized care. Attention must be paid to possible harmful comorbid behaviors found in women with eating disorders, such as smoking, alcohol use, abusing laxatives or herbal supplements, and self‐injurious behavior. This article reviews the mixed research findings of the impact of eating disorders upon pregnancy and identifies key times in prenatal care where nutritional counseling and specific interventions will increase the likelihood of positive pregnancy outcomes. The postpartum period is another critical time for provider intervention that may lower women's risks for eating disorder relapse, postpartum depression, and breastfeeding difficulties.
Kinder und Jugendliche – eine zentrale Zielgruppe im BMBF-Förderschwerpunkt Präventionsforschung
Authors: Plaumann Martina , Dubben Svenja , Kliche Thomas , Nöcker Guido , Walter Ulla
Published: October 2010

Einleitung

Gesundheitsfördernde und -gefährdende Verhaltensweisen werden in der Kindheit und Jugend mitgeprägt. Der BMBF-Förderschwerpunkt „Präventionsforschung“ unterstützt zahlreiche praxisbezogene Projekte zur Kinder- und Jugendgesundheit, die unterschiedliche präventive und gesundheitsförderliche Themen, Altersgruppen und Settings fokussieren. Ein Meta-Projekt unterstützt den Politik- und Praxistransfer. Die Präventionsforschung gewinnt eine gute und ausbaufähige Basis, um wirkungsvolle, evaluierte Maßahmen künftig breiter und systematischer in Bildungswesen und Gesundheitsversorgung umzusetzen.
Effekte von Bonusprogrammen der Kassen
Authors: Scherenberg Viviane , Glaeske Gerd
Published: October 2010

Einleitung

Seit dem 01.01.2004 können die GKVn ihren Versicherten Boni für gesundheitsbewusstes Verhalten offerieren. Die spezifischen Gestaltungsmöglichkeiten auf die spezifischen Zielgruppenbelange auch von Kindern und Jugendlichen sind vielfältig, um früh eigenverantwortliches Handeln zu fördern. Im Hinblick auf die Nutzung, den Nutzen nicht kinder- und jugendzentrierter Programme, möglicher Nebeneffekte aufgrund der Verdrängung intrinsischer Motivation sowie verhältnisbezogener Barrieren besteht erheblicher Forschungsbedarf.