bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of dietary pyridoxine on haemato‐immunological responses ofLabeo rohitafingerlings reared at higher water temperature
Authors: Akhtar M. S. , Kumar Pal A. , Sahu N. P. , Ciji A. , Kumar N.
Published: June 2011

A sixty‐day feeding trial was carried out to elucidate the effect of dietary pyridoxine (PN) on hemato‐immunological parameters inLabeo rohitafingerlings exposed to an elevated temperature (ET) of 33 °C. Two hundred and seventy fingerlings (6.71 ± 0.32 g) were randomly distributed into six treatments in triplicates (15 fish/tank). Five iso‐nitrogenous (356.3 ± 2.7 g/kg crude protein) purified diets were prepared with graded levels (0, 10, 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg diet) of PN. Six treatment groups were P10T26 (10 mg PN + ambient temperature (26 °C), P0T33 (0 mg PN + ET), P10T33 (10 mg PN + ET), P50T33 (50 mg PN + ET), P100T33 (100 mg PN + ET) and P200T33 (200 mg PN + ET). The responses ofL. rohitafingerlings to dietary PN were assessed in terms of growth and by analysing some hemato‐immunological parameters. When PN supplementation increased from 10 to 200 mg/kg diet, a significant improvement in weight gain percentage was observed. Erythrocyte (RBC) count, leucocyte (WBC) count, haemoglobin content and respiratory burst activity were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in 100 mg PN/kg diet–fed group than their non‐PN‐fed counterpart. Also, serum albumin, globulin and lysozyme activity were found significantly (p < 0.05) higher in PN‐fed groups. The overall results indicated that dietary PN supplementation at 100 mg/kg diet may reverse the negative effects caused by ET and may protect the haemato‐immunological status ofL. rohitafingerlings reared at higher water temperature.
Do multiple renal arteries in the remnant kidney have a negative influence on kidney donors after kidney donation?
Authors: MA LU‐LIN , LI GANG , HUANG YI , HOU XIAO‐FEI , ZHAO LEI , WANG GUO‐LIANG , TANG WEN‐HAO , CHEN YING‐TAO
Published: June 2011

Aim:  To investigate whether the presence of multiple renal arteries in the remnant kidney has implications for lower renal function or increased incidence of hypertension.

Methods:  We reviewed the intraoperative and follow‐up data of 101 live kidney donors who underwent nephrectomies at our institution. Sixty‐nine donors (68.3%) had single artery in the remnant kidney (Group A), while 32 donors (31.7%) had multiple renal arteries in the remnant kidney (Group B). We compared the demographic and intraoperative data between the two groups. The follow‐up data of donors in each group were divided into three subgroups based on the length of the follow‐up period (12–24 months, 24–48 months and ≥48 months). Subgroups were created based on blood pressure and serum creatinine level. The δblood pressure (follow‐up blood pressure minus preoperative blood pressure) and δserum creatinine (follow‐up serum creatinine minus preoperative serum creatinine) in each subgroup in Group A were compared with the counterparts in Group B.

Results:  Renal arterial stenosis and calcification of renal arterial wall were not observed in all donors. There were no significant differences in the intraoperative characteristics (e.g. age, body mass index, operative duration and estimated blood loss) between the two groups. In addition, the blood pressure and serum creatinine level among subgroups within each group were similar. Furthermore, significant differences in δblood pressure and δserum creatinine were not observed between subgroups within the same follow‐up period. Recipient survival rate and serum creatinine level were similar and acceptable in both groups.

Conclusions:  The presence of multiple renal arteries in the remnant kidney does not have additional negative influence on kidney donors after kidney donation.
The Joanna Briggs Institute Best Practice Information Sheet: The effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle exercises on urinary incontinence in women following childbirth
Authors:   The Joanna Briggs Institute
Published: June 2011

This Best Practice Information Sheet is derived from 21 studies and aims to synthesize the best available evidence on the effectiveness of pelvic floor muscle exercises on urinary incontinence in women following childbirth. The information that is contained in this sheet has been derived from studies that were included in a systematic review that was conducted by the Joanna Briggs Institute. The original references can be sourced from the systematic review. Pregnancy and childbirth are major risk factors for the development of urinary incontinence as the muscles of the pelvic floor become stretched and weakened. For some women, such incontinence after childbirth is temporary, but for others, their suffering can be of much longer‐term duration. A number of risk factors has been identified for urinary incontinence following childbirth, including antenatal urinary incontinence, obesity, and significant perineal trauma. The aim of pelvic floor muscle exercises is to strengthen the perivaginal and perianal musculature in order to increase a woman's control of urinary leakage.
Successful pregnancy after simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplantation from a brain‐dead donor: The first case report in Japan
Authors: Koyama Shinsuke , Tomimatsu Takuji , Kanagawa Takeshi , Daimon Emiko , Kimura Tadashi , Kuroda Akio , Tanemura Masahiro , Doki Yuichiro , Ito Toshinori
Published: June 2011

Simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplantation is a revolutionary medical procedure to cure diabetes mellitus and its complications in one step. For women with type 1 diabetes mellitus and end‐stage renal disease, this procedure not only treats their disease but may also allow them to have children. Worldwide, 77 pregnancies from 43 pancreas‐kidney recipients have been reported. Here, we present the first case report of successful pregnancy after simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplantation from a brain‐dead donor in Japan. She conceived spontaneously 32 months after transplantation. Her pregnancy course was favorable except for mild rejection of the grafted pancreas and development of gestational diabetes. She delivered a 2882‐g healthy infant in October 2010. Pregnancy after simultaneous pancreas‐kidney transplantation is discussed.
Disseminated intravascular coagulation as the presenting sign of gastric cancer during pregnancy
Authors: Takai Hiroshi , Kondoh Eiji , Sato Yukiyasu , Kakui Kazuyo , Tatsumi Keiji , Konishi Ikuo
Published: June 2011

Gastric cancer during pregnancy is rare and the outcome is generally poor. A 36‐year‐old woman in the 28th week of gestation was complicated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), and she was diagnosed with gastric cancer with bone marrow metastasis. Cesarean delivery followed by sequential methotrexate (100 mg/m2) and 5‐fluorouracil (600 mg/m2) chemotherapy was conducted. DIC was successfully managed with blood transfusion and chemotherapy. She has received chemotherapy in the outpatient clinic. This report is the second case of a pregnant woman with DIC as the initial manifestation of advanced gastric cancer. Prompt diagnosis and chemotherapy increases the chances of a relatively favorable outcome even in advanced gastric cancer presenting with DIC due to bone marrow involvement.
Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor C correlates with a poor prognosis based on analysis of prognostic factors in patients with cervical carcinomas
Authors: Ma De‐mei , Xu Yong‐ping , Zhu Lin
Published: June 2011

Aim:  The aim of this study was to specifically investigate the clinicopathological role of expression of vascular endothelial growth factor C (VEGF‐C) as well as the correlation with clinical outcomes in cervical cancer.

Method:  We carried out a comparative analysis of data from a prospective observational study of 82 patients with cervical carcinomas who underwent radical hysterectomy with bilateral adnexectomy and bilateral pelvic lymphadenectomy from January 2001 to January 2005.

Results:  VEGF‐C mRNA was identified in tumor tissues from 42 patients. In univariate analysis by Fisher's exact probability test, VEGF‐C expression was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis (LNM) (pN1) (P < 0.01). In multivariate analysis by Binary logistic regression analysis, LNM was the independent relevant factor for VEGF‐C mRNA expression in tumor tissues. In univariate analysis by the log–rank test, the overall 5‐year survival rate of the patients with VEGF‐C mRNA expression in tumor tissues was significantly lower than that of the patients without VEGF‐C mRNA expression (47.6% vs 87.5%; P < 0.01). The overall 5‐year survival rate of the patients with LNM was significantly lower than that of the patients without LNM (50.0% vs 80.4%; P < 0.01). According to Cox regression multivariate analysis, VEGF‐C mRNA expression in tumor tissues and LNM were independent, relevant factors for 5‐year survival rate, respectively.

Conclusions:  Expression of VEGF‐C is related to lymph node metastasis (pN1), and is a prognostic indicator for cervical cancer.
Rebuilding the labor curve during neuraxial analgesia
Authors: Frigo Maria Grazia , Larciprete Giovanni , Rossi Federica , Fusco Paolo , Todde Cristina , Jarvis Sheba , Panetta Valentina , Celleno Danilo
Published: June 2011

Aim:  The aim of this study was to examine the pattern of labor progression among nulliparous women under neuraxial analgesia to obtain a new, specific reference labor curve and to compare the different effects of epidural and combined spinal epidural (CSE) analgesia on the progression of labor.

Material and Methods:  This perspective cohort study was carried out in the Obstetrics and Gynecology tertiary care unit. Six hundred nulliparous parturients were enrolled. A total of 545 nulliparous women were assigned to receive either epidural (272) or CSE (273) analgesia during labor.

Results:  The mean duration of the first stage was 4 h and 30 min (SD 1.52 h) and the mean duration of the second stage was 1 h and 10 min (SD 0.43). In the second stage, the CSE analgesia labors showed an overall faster progression compared to the epidural labors but both lasted longer than the duration reported by Zhang (53 min) and Friedman (39 min). Both the first and the second‐stage duration were significantly lower if neuraxial analgesia was performed as a CSE procedure with respect to the simple epidural procedure (first stage 4 h and 1 min vs 4 h and 60 min, P = 0.043; second stage 1 h and 5 min vs 1 h and 15 min, P = 0.0356).

Conclusions:  The pattern of labor progression in contemporary obstetrics differs significantly from the Friedman curve. Based on these observations, we can obtain a more comprehensive knowledge of the partogram's modifications due to the analgesia.
Rate of negative appendectomy in pregnant women in Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Agholor Kingsley , Omo‐Aghoja Lawrence , Okonofua Friday
Published: June 2011

Aim:  This study was an analysis of women diagnosed with acute appendicitis in pregnancy, to appraise the maternal and fetal outcomes and explore the correlations with negative appendectomy.

Material and Methods:  A retrospective study was undertaken at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. The service delivery records of all pregnant women who underwent appendectomy for acute appendicitis from January 2000 to December 2009 were analyzed.

Results:  Among 16 173 deliveries, 23 pregnant women were diagnosed with acute appendicitis. The age of the women ranged between 15 and 34 years (median = 26 years), while the majority (65.2%) were nulliparous. The mean gestational age at presentation was 21.1 ± 6.9 weeks with up to 15 (65.2%) patients presenting in the second trimester. Eighteen (78.3%) patients had histopathologically proven appendicitis giving a negative appendectomy rate of 21.7%. Postoperative complications were noted in eight (34.8%) patients. Half of these occurred within the negative appendectomy group. The negative appendectomy group also contributed significantly to the adverse obstetric outcome: preterm labor, 8.7% of 21.7%, preterm delivery, 4.5% of 13.6% and a fetal loss rate of 4.3% of 13%. One maternal death occurred in the group with diseased appendix giving a maternal mortality rate of 4.3%.

Conclusions:  While a higher index of suspicion among clinicians will ensure earlier diagnosis and improve the associated maternal and fetal prognosis, the need to reduce the negative laparotomy rate is highlighted by the high rate of adverse obstetric outcomes amongst the negative appendectomy group.
The Effect of Perceived Advantage and Disadvantage on Performance: The Role of External Efficacy
Authors: Stirin Keren , Ganzach Yoav , Pazy Asya , Eden Dov
Published: June 2011

This experiment examined how perceptions of advantage and disadvantage determine performance in a competitive context. We distinguished between internal and external efficacy, and manipulated external efficacy by inducing perceptions of advantaged or disadvantaged starting positions in a competition, keeping the actual positions equal. The treatment increased the performance of the advantaged party and decreased the performance of the disadvantaged party. In addition, measured external and internal efficacy had qualitatively different effects on performance. The results are explained by the idea that losses loom larger than gains.
The Moderating Effect of Core Self‐Evaluations on the Relationships between Job Attitudes and Organisational Citizenship Behavior
Authors: Bowling Nathan A. , Wang Qiang , Li Hai Yan
Published: June 2011

Several studies in the organisational citizenship behavior (OCB) literature have focused on the main effects of employee dispositions and job attitudes. The current study builds upon previous findings by examining whether core self‐evaluations (CSE) moderate the relationship between job attitudes and OCBs. Consistent with our hypotheses and with the notion that CSE contributes to one's general level of initiative and self‐confidence, data collected from 200 New Zealand workers found that the job attitude–OCB relationship was stronger for workers who were high in CSE than for workers who were low in CSE.
Five‐Factor Model of Personality and Job Satisfaction: The Importance of Agreeableness in a Tight and Collectivistic Asian Society
Authors: Templer Klaus J.
Published: June 2011

Results from predominantly US‐based research have shown that personality can partly explain job satisfaction. As the issue of globalisation grows in importance for organisations, I researched in this study whether meta‐analytic findings on the relationships between job satisfaction and the Big Five personality traits extraversion, conscientiousness, and neuroticism would hold in a tight and collectivistic Asian society. Additionally, I expected that in a tight and collectivistic society the personality trait agreeableness would have a strong positive relationship with job satisfaction. Study participants were 354 employees from organisations in Singapore. Results confirmed that extraversion, conscientiousness, non‐neuroticism (emotional stability), and also agreeableness were related to job satisfaction. The study advises scholars and practitioners that even in a tight and collectivistic Asian society—despite situations that demand abiding by norms and fulfilling obligations—job satisfaction is related to stable personality traits.
Historic and recent fragmentation coupled with altitude affect the genetic population structure of one of the world's highest tropical tree line species
Authors: Hensen Isabell , Cierjacks Arne , Hirsch Heidi , Kessler Michael , Romoleroux Katya , Renison Daniel , Wesche Karsten
Published: June 2011

Aim  To assess the effects of altitude and historic and recent forest fragmentation on the genetic diversity and structure of the wind‐pollinated tropical tree line species Polylepis incana.

Location  One of the highest mountain forest regions of the world, located in the Eastern Cordillera of the Ecuadorian Andes.

Methods  We compared genetic diversity and structure of adult trees with those of seedlings (n= 118 in both cases) in nine forest stands spanning an altitudinal gradient from 3500 to 4100 m a.s.l. using amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs). Genetic diversity was calculated as percentage of polymorphic bands (P) and Nei's expected heterozygosity (He); genetic differentiation was assessed using analysis of molecular variance, ΦST statistics and Bayesian cluster analysis.

Results  Estimates of genetic diversity at the population level were significantly lower in seedlings than in adults. Genetic diversity (He‐value) was, in both cases, negatively correlated to altitude and positively correlated to population size in the seedlings. Genetic differentiation of the seedlings was approximately as high (φST= 0.298) as that of the adults (φST= 0.307), and geographical differentiation was clearly reflected in both AFLP profiles, with mountain ridges acting as barriers to gene flow.

Main conclusions  Our study provides evidence of a historic upslope migration of P. incana in central Ecuador. In addition, it highlights the detrimental effects of unexpectedly strong genetic isolation, both recent and historical, particularly for our wind‐pollinated species where the distance between forest stands was less than 25 km. We therefore additionally propose that in habitats with pronounced high‐mountain landscape structures, gene flow may be hampered to such an extent that species have a more pronounced sensitivity to habitat fragmentation, even among populations of wind‐pollinated trees.
READING AUGUSTINE THROUGH JOB: A REPARATIVE READING OF AUGUSTINE'S DOCTRINE OF PREDESTINATION
Authors: TICCIATI SUSANNAH
Published: June 2011

In this article I argue that Augustine's four late works against the so‐called “Semi‐Pelagians” can be read creatively and reparatively alongside the book of Job. Specifically, Augustine's frequent appeals to the inscrutability of God's judgment can be compared with God's speeches to Job out of the whirlwind. Having shown how the latter operate “indexically”, I will return to Augustine to highlight signs of indexicality throughout his four works. This will allow an interpretation of Augustine's doctrine of predestination, and its culminating moments of inscrutability, not as timeless truth, but as a tool used within prayer and preaching to foster salvation.
THE MODERNITY OF CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY OR WRITING KIERKEGAARD AGAIN FOR THE FIRST TIME
Authors: JORDAN MARK D.
Published: June 2011

From his first book forward, Stanley Cavell has responded to modernity's demands upon philosophic writing. He has also turned from time to time to remark on the situation of Christian speech or its theological elaboration, especially when commenting on Kierkegaard. Implicit in both gestures are questions about whether Christian theology has ever become modern in Cavell's sense—has ever responded to modernity as a crisis in its relation to received forms. If writers of Christian theology take nothing else from Cavell, they should at least carry away some sense of the demand that Kierkegaard puts on any theology written after him.
“A GREATEST MIRACLE”: STANLEY CAVELL, MORAL PERFECTIONISM, AND THE ASCENT INTO THE ORDINARY
Authors: DE VRIES HENT
Published: June 2011

What to make of “the ordinary,”“the everyday,” and their common “eventfulness”? What to think of what Veena Das, in her recent book Life and Words, prefaced by Stanley Cavell, has called our need to “descent into the ordinary”? Is there a parallel figure of “ascent,” again, into the same “ordinary,” that we might we want to juxtapose with it and that resembles the motif of “change,” even “conversion,” that Cavell analyzes at some length in The Claim of Reason and throughout his oeuvre as a whole? And what could be our reasons for doing so? This essay will draw on Cavell's reading of Ibsen's work in the volume Cities of Words to spell out what such an “ascent” might mean.
PHILOSOPHY AS TRAGEDY OR WHAT WORDS WON'T GIVE
Authors: WARD GRAHAM
Published: June 2011

This article examines Cavell's problematic understanding of scepticism and the knowledge of other minds with respect to his long preoccupation with tragedy. I point to the meta‐philosophical questions Cavell continually raises but fails to address such that a philosophy as tragedy is frequently announced. Taking the same meta‐philosophical questions raised by the inability of words to give us access to certain knowledge, I then rethink this problematic theologically. I show the way Cavell hints at a Christology and a doctrine of analogy neither of which he develops. In developing these two theologoumenon I make some observations on the relationship between theology, philosophy and the endemic potential of the tragic.
FINITUDE AND ORIGINAL SIN: CAVELL'S CONTRIBUTION TO THEOLOGY
Authors: DAHL ESPEN
Published: June 2011

Stanley Cavell's relation to theology is by no means settled nor is, more generally, his relation to religion. The noted American philosopher's own remarks on these topics are notoriously ambiguous and the commentary literature offers no univocal answer. Taking my cue from Cavell's own suggestions, I argue that there is indeed a fruitful way of positively understanding his relation to religion that proves generative for theology as well. Cavell's highly original understanding of the link between finitude and what he calls scepticism sheds light on the dynamics inherent in the Christian doctrine of original sin.
Noncirrhotic hyperammonaemic encephalopathy
Authors: Laish Ido , Ben Ari Ziv
Published: June 2011

Adult hyperammonaemia is associated with severe liver disease in 90% of cases. In the remainder, noncirrhotic causes should be considered. Measurements of serum ammonia level must be part of the basic work‐up in all patients presenting with encephalopathy of unknown origin, even when liver function is normal. Clinician awareness of noncirrhotic hyperammonaemic encephalopathy can contribute to early diagnosis and the initiation of sometimes life‐saving treatment. This review focuses on the physiology, aetiology and underlying mechanisms of noncirrhotic hyperammonaemic encephalopathy and discusses the available treatment modalities.
The prevalence of atypical presentations and comorbidities of benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes
Authors: Tovia Eliel , Goldberg‐Stern Hadassa , Ben Zeev Bruria , Heyman Eli , Watemberg Nathan , Fattal‐Valevski Aviva , Kramer Uri
Published: June 2011

Purpose: Benign childhood epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BCECTS) is the most common epileptic syndrome in childhood. The outcome is usually excellent, but there are some atypical forms of BCECTS with less favorable outcomes. The aim of this study was to delineate the frequency of these atypical features among patients with BCECTS.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart study by retrieving the medical records of all consecutive patients with BCECTS who were evaluated in four pediatric neurology outpatient clinics in Israel between the years 1991 and 2008.

Key Findings: A total of 196 patients with BCECTS were identified (78 female and 118 male; mean age at time of diagnosis 7.64 years, range 1.5–14). The mean duration of follow‐up was 4.43 years (range 2–11). Nine patients (4.6%) developed electrical status epilepticus in slow waves sleep (ESES) during follow‐up, four (2%) had Landau‐Kleffner syndrome, three (1.5%) had BCECTS with frequent refractory seizures, two (1%) had BCECTS with falls at presentation, one (0.5%) had a “classic” atypical variant, and one (0.5%) had oromotor dysfunction. None had rolandic status epilepticus. Sixty‐one patients (31%) had attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), 43 (21.9%) had specific cognitive deficits, and 23 (11.7%) had behavioral abnormalities, including aggressiveness, anxiety disorders, depression, and pervasive developmental disorder (PDD).

Significance: The prevalence of most atypical forms of BCECTS other than ESES is low. There is, however, a high prevalence of ADHD and specific cognitive deficits among patients with BCECTS.
Health Care Costs in Patients with Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Prescribed Pregabalin or Duloxetine
Authors: Burke James P. , Sanchez Robert J. , Joshi Ashish V. , Cappelleri Joseph C. , Kulakodlu Mahesh , Halpern Rachel
Published: June 2011

Background:  Pregabalin and duloxetine are two FDA‐approved medications for the treatment of pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (pDPN). The objective of this study was to compare changes in all‐cause and pDPN‐related health care costs in patients with pDPN initiated on pregabalin or duloxetine.

Methods:  Patients at least 18 years of age initiating pregabalin or duloxetine between March 1, 2006 and December 31, 2008 were identified from a large U.S. managed care plan database. The date of the first pregabalin or duloxetine prescription was defined as the index date. Patients with claims‐based evidence of pDPN and who had continuous enrollment for 6‐month pre‐ and post‐index periods were selected for study inclusion. Duloxetine patients with depression or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) were excluded. All‐cause and pDPN‐related total health care costs (over 6 month pre‐index and post‐index periods) were analyzed with difference‐in‐differences (DiD) models.

Results:  A total of 2,136 patients (1,785 pregabalin and 351 duloxetine) were identified. No significant differences in gender, age, or pre‐index Quan–Charlson comorbidity score were observed between the two cohorts. No significant differences (pregabalin vs. duloxetine) in pre‐index to post‐index change in mean all‐cause health care costs ($1,411 vs. $1,560, P = 0.93) or mean pDPN‐related health care costs ($704 vs. −$240, P = 0.22) were found. The DiD models showed no significant difference in all‐cause (mean) costs attributable to pregabalin vs. duloxetine therapy between pre‐index and post‐index periods (mean cost ratio = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.75 to 1.26), but showed that patients receiving pregabalin had a significantly higher increase in pDPN‐related costs compared with patients receiving duloxetine (mean cost ratio = 2.35, 95% CI: 1.01 to 5.46). However, the difference (pre‐ to post‐index) in pDPN‐related costs attributable to pregabalin vs. duloxetine therapy was nonsignificant (mean cost ratio = 2.30, 95% CI: 0.93 to 5.68) in a sensitivity analysis in which patients with depression and GAD were excluded from both cohorts.

Conclusion:  No differences were noted in all‐cause costs attributable to pregabalin or duloxetine. Although patients receiving pregabalin had a significantly greater pre‐ to post‐index increase in pDPN‐related health care costs compared with patients receiving duloxetine, this may have been due to an imbalance in patient exclusion criteria between cohorts. ▪
How do tenascins influence the birth and life of a malignant cell?
Authors: Brellier Florence , Chiquet‐Ehrismann Ruth
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Birth of a malignant cell

Niches for self‐renewable cells

Expression patterns in tumours

Promotion of tumour cell proliferation

Promotion of tumour cell migration

Contribution to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT)

Promotion of angiogenesis

Promotion of metastasis

How do tenascins signal to cells?

Importance of the mechanical aspect

Evasion of tumour cells from conventional therapy

Conclusions

Tenascins are large glycoproteins found in embryonic and adult extracellular matrices. Of the four family members, two have been shown to be overexpressed in the microenvironment of solid tumours: tenascin‐C and tenascin‐W. The regular presence of these proteins in tumours suggests a role in tumourigenesis, which has been investigated intensively for tenascin‐C and recently for tenascin‐W as well. In this review, we follow a malignant cell starting from its birth through its potential metastatic journey and describe how tenascin‐C and tenascin‐W contribute to these successive steps of tumourigenesis. We consider the importance of the mechanical aspect in tenascin signalling. Furthermore, we discuss studies describing tenascin‐C as an important component of stem cell niches and present examples reporting its role in cancer therapy resistance.
Profilin1 facilitates staurosporine‐triggered apoptosis by stabilizing the integrin β1–actin complex in breast cancer cells
Authors: Yao Wantong , Yu Xianjun , Fang Zhengyu , Yin Peng , Zhao Chao , Li Na , Wang Liying , Li Zengxia , Zha Xiliang
Published: June 2011

Profilin1 (Pfn1) functions as a tumour suppressor against malignant phenotypes of cancer cells. A minimum level of Pfn1 is critical for the differentiation of human epithelial cells, and its lower expression correlates with the tumourigenesis of breast cancer cells and tissues. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying its anti‐tumour action remain largely unknown. In this study, we found that stable expression of ectopic Pfn1 sensitized the breast cancer cell line MDA‐MB‐468 to apoptosis induced by staurosporine, a widely used natural apoptosis‐inducing agent. Pfn1 overexpression could also up‐regulate the expression of integrin α5β1, which has been shown to inhibit the transformed phenotype of cancer cells. Furthermore, the Pfn1‐facilitated apoptosis induced by staurosporine was blocked in cells attached to a supplementary fibronectin substrate, which serves as a ligand of integrin α5β1. These results suggest that the insufficient fibronectin caused by the integrin α5β1 up‐regulation might activate a signalling pathway leading to an increase of cellular apoptosis. Moreover, Pfn1 that primarily functions to promote local superstructure formation involving actin filaments and integrin β1 may contribute to its promotion on apoptosis. Our study indicated a previously uncharacterized role of Pfn1 in mediating staurosporine‐inducing apoptosis in breast cancer cells via up‐regulating integrin α5β1, and suggested a new target for breast cancer therapy.
Variable beta‐glucans production by different states of Eurotium amstelodami explains differences in inflammatory responses in airway cells
Authors: BELLANGER ANNE‐PAULINE , MILLON LAURENCE , ROGNON BÉNÉDICTE , ROUSSEL SANDRINE , BOTTEREL FRANÇOISE , BRETAGNE STÉPHANE , REBOUX GABRIEL
Published: June 2011

Bellanger A‐P, Millon L, Rognon B, Roussel S, Botterel F, Bretagne S, Reboux G. Variable beta‐glucans production by different states of Eurotium amstelodami explains differences in inflammatory responses in airway cells. APMIS 2011.

Eurotium amstelodami, a mold frequently identified in housing and farm air samples, is a suspected cause of respiratory diseases such as allergic alveolitis, atopic asthma, and organic dust toxic syndrome. This fungus is present in the air in three different states (ascospores, conidia, and hyphae). The aim of this study was to test in vitro the differential inflammatory response of airway cells exposed to 1,3 betaglucanase‐treated protein extract (BGPE), from E. amstelodami ascospores, conidia, and hyphae. Confluent cells from the A549 cell line were inoculated with calibrated BGPE issued from the three fungal forms. The levels of eight cytokines and chemokines involved in inflammatory responses were measured after 8 h of exposure. Beta‐d‐glucan (BDG) was quantified in total fungal extract as well as in the BGPE from the three fungal states. Hyphal BGPE were the only ones to induce a marked inflammatory response and they contain higher quantities of BDG. The present study adds to the growing body of evidence that beta‐glucan from fungal hyphae play a crucial role in respiratory diseases.
Cardiac myxoma in Iceland: a case series with an estimation of population incidence
Authors: SIGURJONSSON HANNES , ANDERSEN KARL , GARDARSDOTTIR MARIANNA , PETURSDOTTIR VIGDIS , KLEMENZSON GUDMUNDUR , GUNNARSSON GUNNAR , DANIELSEN RAGNAR , GUDBJARTSSON TOMAS
Published: June 2011

Sigurjonsson H, Andersen K, Gardarsdottir M, Petursdottir V, Klemenzson G, Gunnarsson G, Danielsen R, Gudbjartsson T. Cardiac myxoma in Iceland: a case series with an estimation of population incidence, APMIS 2011.

Cardiac myxoma (CM) is the most common primary benign tumor of the heart, but the true age‐standardized incidence rate (ASR) has remained unknown. We therefore used nationwide registries in Iceland to study CM and establish its incidence rate. This was a retrospective study involving all patients diagnosed with CM in Iceland between 1986 and 2010. Cases were identified through three different registries, and hospital charts and histology results reviewed. An ASR was estimated based on a world standard population (w). Nine cases of CM (six women) were identified with a mean age of 62.8 years (range: 37–85), giving an ASR of 0.11 (95% CI: 0.05–0.22) per 100 000. The mean tumor size was 4.4 cm (range: 1.5–8.0) with all the tumors located in the left atrium. Dyspnea (n = 6) and ischemic stroke (n = 2) were the most common symptoms. All patients underwent complete resection of the tumor and there were no postoperative deaths or CM‐related deaths at follow‐up (mean 85 months). The ASR of CM in Iceland was 0.11 per 100 000. To our knowledge, this is the first study to determine the incidence of CM in an entire population. In Iceland, the presenting symptoms and mode of detection of CM are similar to those in other series.
Early milk availability modulates the activity of choline acetyltransferase in the cerebral cortex of rats
Authors: AIZAWA Shu , NAKAMURA Ryosuke , YAMAGUCHI Yuki , SENSUI Naoto , YAMAMURO Yutaka
Published: June 2011

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of milk in the early stage of lactation on the maturation of cholinergic neurons in the cerebral cortex of rats. Pups were removed from their mothers immediately following parturition and placed with foster dams at days 5–7 of lactation. At days 18 and 56 after birth, the activity of choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), an enzyme responsible for acetylcholine synthesis, in different areas of the cerebral cortex was examined by high‐performance liquid chromatography electrochemical detection. In the frontal and hindlimb/parietal regions of the cerebral cortex, the lack of early milk significantly decreased ChAT activity at days 18 and 56. There was no effect on gains in the body or brain weight of infants. ChAT activity in the occipital area tended to be lower in the early milk‐deprived rats. The intake of early milk potentially contributes not only to nutrients for the growth of newborn infants, but also to the functional maturation of the cholinergic neurotransmission system in a region‐specific manner.
Prenatal diagnosis of a fetus with anencephaly and thumb agenesis
Authors: Barone Chiara , Bartoloni Giovanni , Cataliotti Antonella , Indaco Lara , Pappalardo Elisa , Barrano Barbara , Ettore Giuseppe , Bianca Sebastiano
Published: June 2011

Severe anomalies of the forebrain together with reduction limb anomalies are a rare congenital anomalies association. We report a prenatal diagnosis of acalvaria, anencephaly and thumb agenesis in a voluntary terminated fetus and discuss the role of genetic counseling.
Tyrosine phosphorylation of tau regulates its interactions with Fyn SH2 domains, but not SH3 domains, altering the cellular localization of tau
Authors: Usardi Alessia , Pooler Amy M. , Seereeram Anjan , Reynolds C. Hugh , Derkinderen Pascal , Anderton Brian , Hanger Diane P. , Noble Wendy , Williamson Ritchie
Published: June 2011

Recent reports have demonstrated that interactions between the microtubule‐associated protein tau and the nonreceptor tyrosine kinase Fyn play a critical role in mediating synaptic toxicity and neuronal loss in response to β‐amyloid (Aβ) in models of Alzheimer’s disease. Disruption of interactions between Fyn and tau may thus have the potential to protect neurons from Aβ‐induced neurotoxicity. Here, we investigated tau and Fyn interactions and the potential implications for positioning of these proteins in membrane microdomains. Tau is known to bind to Fyn via its Src‐homology (SH)3 domain, an association regulated by phosphorylation of PXXP motifs in tau. Here, we show that Pro216 within the PXXP(213–216) motif in tau plays an important role in mediating the interaction of tau with Fyn‐SH3. We also show that tau interacts with the SH2 domain of Fyn, and that this association, unlike that of Fyn‐SH3, is influenced by Fyn‐mediated tyrosine phosphorylation of tau. In particular, phosphorylation of tau at Tyr18, a reported target of Fyn, is important for mediating Fyn‐SH2–tau interactions. Finally, we show that tyrosine phosphorylation influences the localization of tau to detergent‐resistant membrane microdomains in primary cortical neurons, and that this trafficking is Fyn‐dependent. These findings may have implications for the development of novel therapeutic strategies aimed at disrupting the tau/Fyn‐mediated synaptic dysfunction that occurs in response to elevated Aβ levels in neurodegenerative disease.

Structured digital abstract

 Fyn physically interacts with tau by pull down (View interaction)

 Fyn physically interacts with tau by pull down (View interaction)
The Big Con: Reframing the state/society debate
Authors: Tam Henry
Published: June 2011

Henry Tam casts a critical eye over the Coalition's ‘Big Society’ policy agenda and sees in it not a platform for citizen engagement and localised service provision but a barely concealed ‘small state’ agenda, with more in common with the Thatcherite politics of the 1980s than David Cameron and Conservatives might admit.
Recombinase‐mediated Gene Stacking as a Transformation Operating SystemF
Authors: Ow David W.
Published: June 2011

David W. Ow (Corresponding author)

The current method for combining transgenes into a genome is through the assortment of independent loci, a classical operating system compatible with transgenic traits created by different developers, at different times and/or through different transformation techniques. However, as the number of transgenic loci increases over time, increasingly larger populations are needed to find the rare individual with the desired assortment of transgenic loci along with the non‐transgenic elite traits. Introducing a transgene directly into a field cultivar would bypass the need to introgress the engineered trait. However, this necessitates separate transformations into numerous field cultivars, along with the characterization and regulatory approval of each independent transformation event. Reducing the number of segregating transgenic loci could be achieved if multiple traits are introduced at the same time, a preferred option if each of the many traits is new or requires re‐engineering. If re‐engineering of previously introduced traits is not needed, then appending a new trait to an existing locus would be a rational strategy. The insertion of new DNA at a known locus can be accomplished by site‐specific integration, through a host‐dependent homology‐based process, or a heterologous site‐specific recombination system. Here, we discuss gene stacking through the use of site‐specific recombinases.
Pseudo‐nitzschia blooms, domoic acid, and related California sea lion strandings in Monterey Bay, California
Authors: Bargu Sibel , Goldstein Tracey , Roberts Kathryn , Li Chunyan , Gulland Frances
Published: June 2011

Abstract

Blooms of the toxin‐producing diatom Pseudo‐nitzschia commonly occur in Monterey Bay, California, resulting in sea lion mortality events. The links between strandings of California sea lions suffering from domoic acid (DA) toxicity, toxic cell numbers, and their associated DA concentration in Monterey Bay and in sea lion feces were examined from 2004 to 2007. While Pseudo‐nitzschia toxic cells and DA concentrations were detectable in the water column most of the time, they were often at low levels. A total of 82 California sea lions were found stranded in the Bay between 2004 and 2007 with acute or chronic signs associated with DA poisoning. The highest number with detectable DA in feces occurred in April 2007 and corresponded with the presence of a highly toxic bloom in the Bay. Higher DA levels occurred in feces from sea lions stranding with acute toxicosis and lower concentrations in feces of sea lions exhibiting signs of chronic DA poisoning or not exhibiting any neurologic signs. Results indicated that sea lions are likely exposed to varying levels of DA through their prey throughout the year, often at sublethal doses that may contribute to a continued increase in the development of chronic neurologic sequelae.
Reduction of Fumonisin B1 in Corn Grits by Twin‐Screw Extrusion
Authors: Jackson Lauren S. , Jablonski Joseph , Bullerman Lloyd B. , Bianchini Andreia , Hanna Milford A. , Voss Kenneth A. , Hollub April D. , Ryu Dojin
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  This study was designed to investigate the fate of fumonisins in flaking corn grits during twin‐screw extrusion by measuring fumonisin B1 (FB1) and its analogs with a mass balance approach. Food grade corn grits and 2 batches of grits contaminated with FB1 at 10 and 50 μg/g by Fusarium verticillioides M‐2552 were processed with or without glucose supplementation (10%, w/w) with a twin‐screw extruder. Extrusion reduced FB1 in contaminated grits by 64% to 72% without glucose and 89% to 94% with added glucose. In addition, extrusion alone resulted in 26% to 73% reduction in the levels of fumonisin B2 and fumonisin B3, while levels of both mycotoxins were reduced by >89% in extruded corn grits containing 10% glucose. Mass balance analysis showed that 38% to 46% of the FB1 species detected in corn extruded with glucose was N‐(deoxy‐D‐fructos‐1‐yl)‐FB1, while 23% to 37% of FB1 species detected in extruded corn grits with and without added glucose was bound to the matrix. It was also found that the hydrolyzed form of FB1 was a minor species in extruded corn grits with or without added glucose, representing <15% of the total FB1 species present. Less than 46% of FB1 originally present in corn grits could be detected in the fumonisin analogues measured in this study. Research is needed to identify the reaction products resulting from extrusion processing of fumonisin‐contaminated corn products.

Practical Application:  Twin‐screw extrusion is widely used in food industry for its versatility. This technology may reduce the level of fumonisins in corn particularly with added glucose.
Utilization of African Grains for Sourdough Bread Making
Authors: Coda Rossana , Di Cagno Raffaella , Rizzello Carlo G. , Nionelli Luana , Edema Mojisola O. , Gobbetti Marco
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  Acha and Iburu flours were singly subjected to sourdough fermentation with previously selected autochthonous starters. Sourdoughs were used (30%, wt/wt) as aroma carriers and acidifiers during short time fermentation with the addition of baker's yeast. Acha and Iburu sourdough breads were compared to wheat sourdough bread started with the same strains and to breads made with the same formula but using baker's yeast alone. During Acha and Iburu sourdough fermentations, starter lactic acid bacteria reached almost the same cell density found in wheat sourdoughs. Acidification was more intense. Iburu sourdough bread had the highest total titratable acidity, the lowest pH, and contained the highest levels of free amino acids and phytase activity. The values of in vitro protein digestibility did not differ between Acha sourdough and wheat sourdough breads, while Iburu sourdough bread showed a slightly lower value. Acha and Iburu sourdough breads showed lower specific volume and higher density with respect to wheat sourdough breads. Nevertheless, Acha and Iburu sourdough breads were preferred for hardness and resilience. As shown by sensory analysis, Acha and especially Iburu sourdough breads were appreciated for color, acid taste and flavor, and overall acceptability.

Practical Application:  This study was aimed at evaluating the technological and nutritional properties of the African cereals Acha and Iburu. Sourdough fermentation and the use of selected starters increased the nutritional and sensory qualities and the potential application for bakery industry.
Maintenance of Safety and Quality of Refrigerated Ready‐to‐Cook Seasoned Ground Beef Product (Meatball) by Combining Gamma Irradiation with Modified Atmosphere Packaging
Authors: Gunes Gurbuz , Ozturk Aylin , Yilmaz Neriman , Ozcelik Beraat
Published: June 2011

Abstract:  Meatballs were prepared by mixing ground beef and spices and inoculated with E. coli O157:H7, L. monocytogenes, and S. enteritidis before packaged in modified atmosphere (3% O2+ 50% CO2+ 47% N2) or aerobic conditions. The packaged samples were irradiated at 0.75, 1.5, and 3 kGy doses and stored at 4 °C for 21 d. Survival of the pathogens, total plate count, lipid oxidation, color change, and sensory quality were analyzed during storage. Irradiation at 3 kGy inactivated all the inoculated (approximately 106 CFU/g) S. enteritidis and L. monocytogenes cells in the samples. The inoculated (approximately 106 CFU/g) E. coli O157:H7 cells were totally inactivated by 1.5 kGy irradiation. D10‐values for E. coli O157:H7, S. enteritidis, and L. monocytogenes were 0.24, 0.43, and 0.41 kGy in MAP and 0.22, 0.39, and 0.39 kGy in aerobic packages, respectively. Irradiation at 1.5 and 3 kGy resulted in 0.13 and 0.36 mg MDA/kg increase in 2‐thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances (TBARS) reaching 1.02 and 1.49 MDA/kg, respectively, on day 1. Irradiation also caused significant loss of color and sensory quality in aerobic packages. However, MAP effectively inhibited the irradiation‐induced quality degradations during 21‐d storage. Thus, combining irradiation (3 kGy) and MAP (3% O2+ 50% CO2+ 47% N2) controlled the safety risk due to the potential pathogens and maintained qualities of meatballs during 21‐d refrigerated storage.

Practical Application:  Combined use of gamma irradiation and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) can maintain quality and safety of seasoned ground beef (meatball). Seasoned ground beef can be irradiated at 3 kGy and packaged in MAP with 3% O2+ 50% CO2+ 47% N2 gas mixture in a high barrier packaging materials. These treatments can significantly decrease risk due to potential pathogens including E. coli O157:H7, L. monocytogenes, and S. enteritidis in the product. The MAP would reduce the undesirable effects of irradiation on quality, and extend the shelf life of the product for up to 21 d at 3 °C.
Lithium Isotope Composition of Ultramafic Geological Reference Materials JP‐1 and DTS‐2
Authors: Gao Yongjun , Casey John F.
Published: June 2011

An organic solvent‐free two‐step column procedure is presented that provided robust, high yield and super clean separation of Li from silicate rock sample matrices. The measured δ7Li value for BHVO‐2 of +4.29 ± 0.23‰ (1s) is comparable with the reported values. The δ7Li values for GSJ JP‐1 (+3.14 ± 0.41‰, 1s) and USGS DTS‐2 (+4.91 ± 0.34‰, 1s) presented here provide new reference values for ultramafic rock reference materials.
Improved AFLP protocol using dual‐suppression PCR and its application to species with large genomes
Authors: GUAN LANHUA , SHIRAISHI SUSUMU
Published: June 2011

To improve the amplified fragment length polymorphism assay, dual‐suppression PCR was introduced into the preamplification step of the assay. The dual‐suppression PCR blocked completely the amplification of fragments with the same sequence (Bsp1407I‐Bsp1407I or NlaIII‐NlaIII) at both ends and amplified selectively fragments with different adaptor sequences (Bsp1407I‐NlaIII) at each end. Two protocols, referred to as A and B, were established for species with medium‐ and large‐sized genomes, respectively. Both protocols incorporated the dual‐suppression PCR. Protocol A resulted in high‐quality electrophoretic profiles for black cottonwood and rice, which have medium‐sized genomes. In protocol B, an intensely selective PCR step was added to protocol A. Protocol B yielded profiles for Japanese black pine and Japanese cedar that were improved significantly relative to protocol A: the number of strong peaks increased and that of low peaks decreased. Japanese black pine and Japanese cedar have large genomes. The optimal profiles were generated with a total of eight or nine selective nucleotides.