bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An index for staging facial lipoatrophy and evaluation of the efficacy of the treatment with polymethylmethacrylate in HIV/AIDS patients: a pilot study
Authors: Serra M.S. , Oyafuso L.K. , Trope B.M. , Munhoz Leite O.H. , Ramos‐e‐Silva M.
Published: July 2012

Background  Treatment of facial lipoatrophy of HIV/AIDS patients is mandatory by law in Brazil due to its negative impact on their quality of life. The index for facial lipoatrophy (ILA) is used as one of the inclusion criteria for patient treatment.

Objectives  To define a correct diagnosis and staging of facial lipoatrophy, by employing the ILA.

Patients and methods  This is an observational study of a series of case reports from patients submitted to facial lipoatrophy evaluation through ILA and treated with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) fillers. Facial lipoatrophy was classified in grades from I to IV, corresponding to mild, moderate, severe and very severe stage, according to ILA. Response to the treatment was defined as excellent (≥91%), good (71–90%), moderate (51–70%) and insufficient (≤50%).

Results  A total of 20 patients were included in this study: 18 men and two women. Median age was 49 years (35–61) and average ILA was 9.9 (7.2–16.8). Ten patients presented facial lipoatrophy grade II (moderate), 5 grade III (severe) and 5 grade IV (very severe). The average volume of PMMA used was 13 mL (5.5–22 mL). All patients showed good or excellent response, with a median of 86% (74–100%). The most typical adverse effect was local oedema but there were no late adverse effects.

Conclusion  The ILA is an excellent method for evaluation of facial lipoatrophy and also for the assessment of the response to therapy. Facial filling with PMMA showed efficacy and safety in the treatment of facial lipoatrophy in HIV/AIDS patients.
Evaluation of tourists’ UV exposure in Paris
Authors: Mahé E. , Corrêa M.P. , Godin‐Beekmann S. , Haeffelin M. , Jégou F. , Saiag P. , Beauchet A.
Published: July 2012

Background  Ultraviolet (UV) exposure is one of the most important risk factor for skin cancers. If UV hazard has been evaluated in tropical countries or in some population – children, outdoor activities – little information is available about UV hazard in high latitude towns like Paris, considered as the most ‘charismatic city’ in the world.

Objective  To evaluate UV exposure in Paris in spring, in sun and shade, in real life conditions.

Methods  We evaluated erythemal UV exposure, during four sunny days in May‐June in eight Paris touristic sites during peak hours (2 days), and during two walks in touristic downtown of Paris. Measures were performed in sun and shade. UV radiation exposure was evaluated with UV index performed with a ‘Solarmeter ultraviolet index (UVI)’ and UV dose with ‘standard erythema dose’ (SED) and ‘minimal erythema dose’ (MED) calculations.

Results  Despite ‘average’ UVI in sunny conditions, a 4‐h sun exposure reaches 13–20 SED and 3–10 MED according to phototype. Clouds were inefficient to protect against UV. Shade of places reduces moderately UVI (50–60%) in forecourts. Exposure during 1‐h walk reach at least one MED in real life conditions for skin phototypes I–IV.

Conclusions  UV risk for tourist is quite high in spring in Paris. UVI remains high despite high cloud fraction. Shade reduces UVI, but UV protection factor is only 2–3 in large places such as Place Notre Dame and Place Charles de Gaulle. So sun protection campaigns should be proposed, and sun protective strategies could be integrated in urban planning.
Children on the Autism Spectrum: Grandmother Involvement and Family Functioning
Authors: Sullivan Alison , Winograd Greta , Verkuilen Jay , Fish Marian C.
Published: July 2012

Background  This study investigated associations between the presence of a child with autism or Asperger’s disorder in the family, family functioning and grandmother experiences with the goal of better understanding grandparent involvement in the lives of grandchildren on the autism spectrum and their families.

Methods  Mothers and grandmothers of children who were either typically developing or on the autism spectrum completed parallel forms of a grandparent involvement measure. Mothers reported on the functioning of the immediate family. Data were analysed via multilevel modelling with mother–grandmother dyads as the unit of observation.

Results  Autism spectrum disorders in children were associated with more flexible family functioning, lower levels of family satisfaction, greater grandmother difficulties and more grandmother information needs.

Conclusions  Participation of grandparents in diagnostic and treatment meetings and increased communication among family members may facilitate grandparent support and involvement in families with a child on the autism spectrum.
Are rocks still water‐wet in the presence of dense CO2 or H2S?
Authors: BROSETA D. , TONNET N. , SHAH V.
Published: July 2012

The various modes of acid gas storage in aquifers, namely structural, residual, and local capillary trapping, are effective only if the rock remains water‐wet. This paper reports an evaluation, by means of the captive‐bubble method, of the water‐wet character in presence of dense acid gases (CO2, H2S) of typical rock‐forming minerals such as mica, quartz, calcite, and of a carbonate‐rich rock sampled from the caprock of a CO2 storage reservoir in the South‐West of France. The method, which is improved from that previously implemented with similar systems by Chiquet et al. (Geofluids 2007; 7: 112), allows the advancing and receding contact angles, as well as the adhesion behavior of the acid gas on the mineral substrate, to be evaluated over a large range of temperatures (up to 140°C), pressures (up to 150 bar), and brine salinities (up to NaCl saturation) representative of various geological storage conditions. The water‐receding (or gas‐advancing) angle that controls structural and local capillary trapping is observed to be not significantly altered in the presence of dense CO2 or H2S. In contrast, some alteration of the water‐advancing (or gas‐receding) angle involved in residual trapping is observed, along with acid gas adhesion, particularly on mica. A spectacular wettability reversal is even observed with mica and liquid H2S. These results complement other recent observations on similar systems and present analogies with the wetting behavior of crude oil/brine/mineral systems, which has been thoroughly studied over the past decades. An insight is given into the interfacial forces that govern wettability in acid gas‐bearing aquifers, and the consequences for acid gas geological storage are discussed along with open questions for future work.
The new iminothiadiazole derivative VP1.14 ameliorates hippocampal damage after an excitotoxic injury
Authors: Susín Cristina , Morales‐Garcia Jose A. , Aguilar‐Morante Diana , Palomo Valle , Sanz‐Sancristobal Marina , Alonso‐Gil Sandra , Gil Carmen , Santos Angel , Martinez Ana , Perez‐Castillo Ana
Published: July 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 1193–1202.

Increased levels of glutamate causing excitotoxic damage accompany many neurological disorders. A well‐characterized model of excitotoxic damage involves administration of kainic acid (KA), which causes limbic seizure activity and subsequent neuronal death, particularly in the CA1 and CA3 areas of the hippocampus. Inhibition of the enzyme glycogen synthase kinase‐3 (GSK‐3) and cAMP levels might play an important role in neuroprotection. As intracellular cAMP levels depend, in part, on the activity of the phosphodiesterase enzymes (PDEs), these enzymes have recently emerged as potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of several diseases. In previous works, we have shown a potent anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective effect of GSK‐3 inhibition in a model of excitotoxicity, as well as a reduction of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neuronal cell death after phosphodiesterase 7 inhibition, which leads to an increase in cAMP levels. This study was undertaken to determine whether simultaneous inhibition of GSK‐3 and PDE‐7 by a novel 5‐imino‐1,2,4‐thiadiazole compound, named VP1.14, could prevent the massive neuronal loss in the hippocampus evoked by intrahippocampal injection of KA. Here, we show that rats treated with VP1.14 showed a reduced inflammatory response after KA injection, and exhibited a significant reduction in pyramidal cell loss in the CA1 and CA3 areas of the hippocampus. Studies with hippocampal HT22 cells in vitro also showed a clear neuroprotective effect of VP1.14 and an anti‐inflammatory effect shown by a decrease in the nitrite liberation and in the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines by primary cultures of astrocytes treated with lipopolysaccharide.
Mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in P2X7 receptor‐mediated neuronal cell death
Authors: Nishida Kentaro , Nakatani Tsunetoshi , Ohishi Akihiro , Okuda Hiroto , Higashi Youichirou , Matsuo Takaaki , Fujimoto Sadaki , Nagasawa Kazuki
Published: July 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 1118–1128.

P2X7 receptor (P2X7R) is known to be a ‘death receptor’ in immune cells, but its functional expression in non‐immune cells such as neurons is controversial. Here, we examined the involvement of P2X7R activation and mitochondrial dysfunction in ATP‐induced neuronal death in cultured cortical neurons. In P2X7R‐ and pannexin‐1‐expressing neuron cultures, 5 or more mM ATP or 0.1 or more mM BzATP induced neuronal death including apoptosis, and cell death was prevented by oxATP, P2X7R‐selective antagonists. ATP‐treated neurons exhibited Ca2+ entry and YO‐PRO‐1 uptake, the former being inhibited by oxATP and A438079, and the latter by oxATP and carbenoxolone, while P2X7R antagonism with oxATP, but not pannexin‐1 blocking with carbenoxolone, prevented the ATP‐induced neuronal death. The ATP treatment induced reactive oxygen species generation through activation of NADPH oxidase and activated poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase, but both of them made no or negligible contribution to the neuronal death. Rhodamine123 efflux from neuronal mitochondria was increased by the ATP‐treatment and was inhibited by oxATP, and a mitochondrial permeability transition pore inhibitor, cyclosporine A, significantly decreased the ATP‐induced neuronal death. In ATP‐treated neurons, the cleavage of pro‐caspase‐3 was increased, and caspase inhibitors, Q‐VD‐OPh and Z‐DEVD‐FMK, inhibited the neuronal death. The cleavage of apoptosis‐inducing factor was increased, and calpain inhibitors, MDL28170 and PD151746, inhibited the neuronal death. These findings suggested that P2X7R was functionally expressed by cortical neuron cultures, and its activation‐triggered Ca2+ entry and mitochondrial dysfunction played important roles in the ATP‐induced neuronal death.
Urocortin 3 elevates cytosolic calcium in nucleus ambiguus neurons
Authors: Brailoiu G. Cristina , Deliu Elena , Tica Andrei A. , Chitravanshi Vineet C. , Brailoiu Eugen
Published: July 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 1129–1136.

Urocortin 3 (also known as stresscopin) is an endogenous ligand for the corticotropin‐releasing factor receptor 2 (CRF2). Despite predominant Gs coupling of CRF2, promiscuous coupling with other G proteins has been also associated with the activation of this receptor. As urocortin 3 has been involved in central cardiovascular regulation at hypothalamic and medullary sites, we examined its cellular effects on cardiac vagal neurons of nucleus ambiguus, a key area for the autonomic control of heart rate. Urocortin 3 (1 nM–1000 nM) induced a concentration‐dependent increase in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration that was blocked by the CRF2 antagonist K41498. In the case of two consecutive treatments with urocortin 3, the second urocortin 3‐induced Ca2+ response was reduced, indicating receptor desensitization. The effect of urocortin 3 was abolished by pre‐treatment with pertussis toxin and by inhibition of phospolipase C with U‐73122. Urocortin 3 activated Ca2+ influx via voltage‐gated P/Q‐type channels as well as Ca2+ release from endoplasmic reticulum. Urocortin 3 promoted Ca2+ release via inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate receptors, but not ryanodine receptors. Our results indicate a novel Ca2+‐mobilizing effect of urocortin 3 in vagal pre‐ganglionic neurons of nucleus ambiguus, providing a cellular mechanism for a previously reported role for this peptide in parasympathetic cardiac regulation.
Changes in hope and health‐related quality of life in couples following acute myocardial infarction: a quantitative longitudinal study
Authors: Eriksson Monica , Asplund Kenneth , Hochwälder Jacek , Svedlund Marianne
Published: July 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2013; 27; 295–302

Changes in hope and health‐related quality of life in couples following acute myocardial infarction: a quantitative longitudinal study

Background:  Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is a life‐changing event that affects both the patient and the family and can have an influence on hope as well as HRQoL during the recovery period.

Aims:  To compare self‐rated scores of hope and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) 1, 7, 13 and 25 months, after an AMI with regard to (i) differences across time, and (ii) differences between patients and their partners.

Design:  Explorative and longitudinal study.

Methods:  In this nonrandomized study, Short Form 36 Health Questionnaire (SF‐36) and Herth Hope Index‐Swedish (HHI‐S) questionnaires were completed by thirteen post‐AMI patients and their partners. Data were collected on four occasions.

Results:  In general, hope as well as HRQoL scores increased over time. A 2 (groups) × 4 (times) anova for mixed design showed significant changes in mental as well as in physical health over time but no significant effect of group on mental or physical health. Calculation of the minimum detectable change (MDC‐index) for HHI‐S and SF‐36 revealed that scores between data collection points were not stable.

Conclusion:  Our results show that although hope and HRQoL scores increased, only a few of the changes were statistically significant. Neither HHI‐S nor SF‐36 seems to measure stable states. Changes in hope and HRQoL levels may be due to participants striving to adapt to the current situation.

Relevance to clinical practice:  These results can be used in the training of nursing staff to enhance their understanding of the significance of a family‐centred approach after an AMI.
Sudden generalized lung atelectasis during thoracotomy following thoracic lavage in 3 dogs
Authors: Drynan Eleanor , Musk Gabrielle , Raisis Anthea
Published: July 2012

Objective

To describe sudden onset of generalized pulmonary atelectasis following thoracic lavage in 3 dogs.

Series Summary

Thoracic lavage was performed following ligation of a patent ductus arteriosus in case 1, prior to closure of a large traumatic full thickness wound in the chest wall in case 2, and during investigation of an idiopathic spontaneous pneumothorax in case 3. In each case anesthesia and surgery were uneventful until thoracic lavage was performed, after which sudden generalized pulmonary atelectasis was observed. The atelectasis was visualized and was associated with oxyhemoglobin desaturation, decreased end‐tidal carbon dioxide partial pressure (ETCO2), and a marked increase in the peak inspiratory pressure (PIP) required to achieve visible lung inflation. Occlusion of the endotracheal tube and cervical trachea was directly eliminated as the cause of atelectasis in cases 1 and 2, and indirectly eliminated in case 3. Improvement in pulmonary function occurred in all cases in response to increased PIP ± positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP).

New or Unique Information Provided

Generalized atelectasis should be considered a possible complication of thoracic lavage performed during thoracotomy. In the cases presented here, it is suspected that pre‐existing reduction in lung volume (due to inadequate ventilation, surgical compression, absorption atelectasis) was exacerbated by the addition of the lavage fluid to the thoracic cavity. This pre‐existing lung collapse is believed to have resulted in reduction of lung volume and that further reduction below the critical closing volume occurred following instillation of saline into the thorax resulting in the subsequent development of generalized atelectasis. The performance of regular arterial blood gas analyses and different ventilation protocols may have prevented the marked atelectasis that was observed in these cases.
CD47 update: a multifaceted actor in the tumour microenvironment of potential therapeutic interest
Authors: Sick E , Jeanne A , Schneider C , Dedieu S , Takeda K , Martiny L
Published: July 2012

CD47 is a ubiquitous 50 kDa five‐spanning membrane receptor that belongs to the immunoglobulin superfamily. This receptor, also known as integrin‐associated protein, mediates cell‐to‐cell communication by ligation to transmembrane signal‐regulatory proteins SIRPα and SIRPγ and interacts with integrins. CD47 is also implicated in cell‐extracellular matrix interactions via ligation with thrombospondins. Furthermore, CD47 is involved in many and diverse cellular processes, including apoptosis, proliferation, adhesion and migration. It also plays a key role in many immune and cardiovascular responses. Thus, this multifaceted receptor might be a central actor in the tumour microenvironment. Solid tumours are composed of not only cancer cells that actively proliferate but also other cell types including immune cells and fibroblasts that make up the tumour microenvironment. Tumour cell proliferation is strongly sustained by continuous sprouting of new vessels, which also represents a gate for metastasis. Moreover, infiltration of inflammatory cells is observed in most neoplasms. Much evidence has accumulated indicating that infiltrating leukocytes promote cancer progression. Given its ubiquitous expression on all the different cell types that compose the tumour microenvironment, targeting CD47 could represent an original therapeutic strategy in the field of oncology. We present a current overview of the biological effects associated with CD47 on cancer cells and stromal cells.
Lecithoceridae (Lepidoptera: Gelechioidea) of New Guinea, Part VIII: A new genus Sulciolus, with descriptions of two new species
Authors: PARK Kyu‐Tek
Published: July 2012

As the eighth part in a series on the family Lecithoceridae (Lepidoptera: Gelechioidea) from New Guinea, Sulciolus Park, gen. nov. of the subfamily Lecithocerinae is described, based on the type species, S. pachystoma (Diakonoff), comb. nov., with two additional new species: (i) S. circulivalvae sp. nov.; and (ii) S. kaindiana sp. nov. The new genus shares with Achroa Meyrick, Onnuria Park, Hamatina Park and Scolizona Park a uniquely specialized 3rd segment of labial palpus, but it is differentiated from them by having a longitudinal furrow on the inner surface of the segment. Sulciolus abrasa (Diakonoff), S. capra (Diakonoff), S. induta (Diakonoff) and S. perspicua (Diakonoff) are newly combined, and Lecithocera sextacta Diakonoff is synonymized with S. perspicua (Diakonoff). Keys to genera related to Lecithocera and to species of the genus are given. Adults, labial palpi, wing venations and male genitalia are illustrated.
New insect host records for mites of the family Microdispidae (Acari: Heterostigmatina), with description of a new species of the genus Paramicrodispus
Authors: HAJIQANBAR Hamidreza , RAHIMINEJAD Vahid , FATHIPOUR Yaghoub
Published: July 2012

The mite Paramicrodispus scarabidophilus Hajiqanbar and Rahiminejad sp. nov. (Acari: Prostigmata: Microdispidae) is described and illustrated based on phoretic females recovered from Oryctes nasicornis L. (Col.: Scarabaeidae) hosts, which were collected from forests in northern Iran. It is the first record of the genus Paramicrodispus for the mite fauna of Iran. We also found Paramicrodispus crenulatus (Savulkina, 1978) associated with Lucanus ibericus Motschulsky (Col.: Lucanidae), the first report of association between beetles of the family Lucanidae and the mite family Microdispidae. Moreover, for the first time we report an association between beetles of the family Scarabaeidae and Paramicrodispus mites.
A New Approach for Tracking Vegetation Change after Restoration: A Case Study with Peatlands
Authors: Poulin Monique , Andersen Roxane , Rochefort Line
Published: July 2012

Developing objective tools for tracking progress of restored sites is of general concern. Here, we present an innovative approach based on principal response curves (PRC) and species classification according to their preferential habitats to monitor changes in community composition. Following large‐scale restoration of a cut‐over peatland, vegetation was surveyed biannually over 8 years. We evaluated whether the establishing plant communities fell within the range of natural variation. We used both general diversity curves and PRC applied on plant species grouped by preferred habitat to compare restored sites and unrestored sites to a reference ecosystem. After 8 years, diversity and richness differed between the sites, withForestandRuderalspecies more prominent in unrestored sites, andPeatland,Forest, andWetlandspecies dominant in restored sites. The PRC revealed that the restored site became rapidly dominated by typical peatland plants, the main drivers of temporal changes beingSphagnum rubellum,Pohlia nutans, andMylia anomala. Some differences remained between the restored and the undisturbed species pools: the former had more herbaceous species associated with wetlands such asCalamagrostis canadensisandTypha latifoliaand the latter had more forested species likeKalmia angustifoliathroughout the study. PRC revealed to be an efficient tool identifying species driving changes at the community level after restoration. In our case study, examining PRC scores after classifying species according to their preferred habitat allowed to illustrate objectively how restoration promotes target species (associated to peatlands) and how lack of intervention benefits ruderal species.
Competitive Control of an Exotic Mangrove Species: Restoration of Native Mangrove Forests by Altering Light Availability
Authors: Chen Leiyi , Peng Shaolin , Li Jing , Lin Zhenguang , Zeng Yan
Published: July 2012

Recently, many studies have focused on the possibility of restoring mangrove ecosystems by introducing fast‐growing mangroves. However, methods for managing an exotic fast‐growing species to restore mangrove ecosystems and at the same time preventing invasion by introduced species remains unclear.Sonneratia apetalaBuch‐Ham is one example of an exotic mangrove with both high ecological value and potential risk for invasion after introduction. To investigate the possibility of reducing the potential for invasion by altering light availability, we simulated different irradiances ofS. apetalaunderstory in the greenhouse. For each irradiance treatment, three levels of competition betweenS. apetalaand native mangrovesAegiceras corniculatum(L.) were used: no competition, intraspecific competition and interspecific competition. Compared withA. corniculatum,S. apetalashowed a significantly higher growth rate for both height and biomass accumulation under full irradiation. Compared to the full irradiation treatment, the shading treatment significantly reduced the height, total biomass and biomass allocation to leaves ofS. apetalaby 61.31, 71.0, and 76.2%, respectively, whereas the growth ofA. corniculatumwas not affected. The results suggested that lowering light availability could inhibit the growth ofS. apetalaand increase the competitiveness ofA. corniculatum. Planting introduced fast‐growing mangroves at a density of approximately 2,000 plants/hm2is an effective strategy for preventing potential invasion and restoring wetland habitats. By taking advantage of the differences in shade tolerance between fast‐growing exotic mangroves and native mangroves, introduction of fast‐growing mangroves in coastal areas could have huge potential for reforesting mangrove ecosystems.
Therapeutic Effects of Selective Atrioventricular Node Vagal Stimulation in Atrial Fibrillation and Heart Failure
Authors: ZHANG YOUHUA , POPOVIĆ ZORAN B. , KUSUNOSE KENYA , MAZGALEV TODOR N.
Published: July 2012

Therapeutic Effects of Selective AVN‐VS in AF and HF. Introduction: Atrial fibrillation (AF) and heart failure (HF) frequently coexist. We have previously demonstrated that selective atrioventricular node (AVN) vagal stimulation (AVN‐VS) can be used to control ventricular rate during AF. Due to withdrawal of vagal activity in HF, the therapeutic effects of AVN‐VS may be compromised in the combined condition of AF and HF. Accordingly, this study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic effects of AVN‐VS to control ventricular rate in AF and HF.

Methods and Results: A combined model of AF and HF was created by implanting a dual chamber pacemaker in 24 dogs. A newly designed bipolar electrode was inserted into the ganglionic AVN fat pad and connected to a nerve stimulator for delivering AVN‐VS. In all dogs, HF was induced by high rate ventricular pacing at 220 bpm for 4 weeks. AF was then induced and maintained by rapid atrial pacing at 600 bpm after discontinuation of ventricular pacing. These HF + AF dogs were randomized into control (n = 9) and AVN‐VS (n = 15) groups. In the latter group, vagal stimulation (310 μs, 20 Hz, 3–7 mA) was delivered continuously for 6 months. Compared with the control, AVN‐VS had a consistent effect on ventricular rate slowing (by >50 bpm, all P < 0.001) during the entire 6‐month observation period that was associated with left ventricular functional improvement. Moreover, AVN‐VS was well tolerated by the treated animals.

Conclusions: AVN‐VS achieved consistent rate slowing, which was associated with improved ventricular function in a canine AF and HF model. Thus, AVN‐VS may be a novel, effective therapeutic option in the combined condition of AF and HF. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 24, pp. 86‐91, January 2013)
Changes in hematological and serum biochemical parameters in common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) after inoculation with dengue virus
Authors: Omatsu Tsutomu , Moi Meng Ling , Takasaki Tomohiko , Nakamura Shinichiro , Katakai Yuko , Tajima Shigeru , Ito Mikako , Yoshida Tomoyuki , Saito Akatsuki , Akari Hirofumi , Kurane Ichiro
Published: July 2012

Background  Marmosets are susceptible to dengue virus (DENV) infection. However, blood parameter data and clinical signs of DENV‐infected marmosets are limited.

Methods  Blood hematological and serum biochemical values were obtained from twelve DENV‐inoculated and four mock‐infected marmosets. Additionally, body temperature and activity level were determined.

Results  Five DENV‐inoculated marmosets demonstrated thrombocytopenia, nine demonstrated leucopenia, and five demonstrated an increase in the levels of AST, ALT, LDH, and BUN. Additionally, seven DENV‐inoculated marmosets demonstrated clinical signs including fever and decreases in activity. None of the four mock‐inoculated marmosets demonstrated changes in either hematological or biochemical parameters.

Conclusions  Marmosets inoculated with DENV exhibited clinical signs and changes in hematological and biochemical parameters. The results suggest that blood parameter data and clinical signs could potentially be useful markers for understanding the progress of DENV infection in studies using marmosets.
Efficient oxidative folding and site‐specific labeling of human hepcidin to study its interaction with receptor ferroportin
Authors: Luo Xiao , Jiang Qian , Song Ge , Liu Ya‐Li , Xu Zeng‐Guang , Guo Zhan‐Yun
Published: July 2012

Hepcidin is a small disulfide‐rich peptide hormone that plays a key role in the regulation of iron homeostasis by binding and mediating the degradation of the cell membrane iron efflux transporter, ferroportin. Since it is a small peptide, chemical synthesis is a suitable approach for the preparation of mature human hepcidin. However, oxidative folding of synthetic hepcidin is extremely difficult due to its high cysteine content and high aggregation propensity. To improve its oxidative folding efficiency, we propose a reversible S‐modification approach. Introduction of eight negatively charged sulfonate moieties into synthetic hepcidin significantly decreased its aggregation propensity and, under optimized conditions, dramatically increased the refolding yield. The folded hepcidin displayed a typical disulfide‐constrained β‐sheet structure and could induce internalization of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) tagged ferroportin in transfected HEK293 cells. In order to study interactions between hepcidin and its receptor ferroportin, we propose a general approach for site‐specific labeling of synthetic hepcidin analogues by incorporation of an l‐propargylglycine during chemical synthesis. Following efficient oxidative refolding, a hepcidin analogue with Met20 replaced by l‐propargylglycine was efficiently mono‐labeled by a red fluorescent dye through click chemistry. The labeled hepcidin was internalized into the transfected cells together with the EGFP‐tagged ferroportin, suggesting direct binding between hepcidin and ferroportin. The labeled hepcidin was also a suitable tool to visualize internalization of overexpressed or even endogenously expressed ferroportin without tags. We anticipate that the present refolding and labeling approaches could also be used for other synthetic peptides.
Cell‐free expression of disulfide‐containing eukaryotic proteins for structural biology
Authors: Michel Erich , Wüthrich Kurt
Published: July 2012

We describe Escherichia coli based cell‐free production of milligram quantities of eukaryotic proteins containing native disulfide bonds. Using a previously described expression system, we systematically investigated the influence of redox potential variation in the reaction mixture and the impact of adding disulfide bond catalysts on soluble protein production. It is then shown that the optimized reaction conditions for native disulfide bond formation can be combined with the use of N‐terminal fusion constructs with the GB1 domain for increased expression yields. The resulting cell‐free system is suitable for stable‐isotope labeling and does not require chemical pretreatment of the cell extract to stabilize the redox potential. For the human doppel protein, the mouse doppel protein and mouse interleukin‐22 we obtained 0.3–0.7 mg of purified native protein per milliliter of reaction mixture. Formation of disulfide bonds was validated using the Ellman assay, and native folding of the three proteins was monitored by NMR and CD spectroscopy.

Structured digital abstract

 mIL22 and mIL22 bind by nuclear magnetic resonance (View interaction)
PERSPECTIVES ON PARENTING COORDINATION: VIEWS OF PARENTING COORDINATORS, ATTORNEYS, AND JUDICIARY MEMBERS
Authors: Fieldstone Linda , Lee Mackenzie C. , Baker Jason K. , McHale James P.
Published: July 2012

Because the development of effective parenting coordination depends upon a sound relationship with the court, this study examined attitudes and expectations toward the parenting coordination process held by judiciary members, attorneys, and parenting coordinators. Respondents from the 11th Judicial Circuit of Florida reported anonymously on background demographics and prior personal experience with and attitudes toward the process. Overall, respondents reported favorable views toward parenting coordination; analyses also provided initial insights into potential interdisciplinary differences in views among members of the three important constituencies. Results may be helpful in informing training processes, shaping conversations about legislation, and guiding the administration of parenting coordination through court programs.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

This article will inform parenting coordination program developers of the expectations and attitudes of judiciary and attorneys toward the parenting coordination process in order to build in safeguards that may enhance the success of the program.

This article will inform the development of prospective legislation on parenting coordination so that the outcomes also meet the expectations of the court and legal communities.

Readers will be able to identify behaviors of parenting coordinators, attorneys, and judges that may enhance the parenting coordination process.

This article will inform parenting coordination trainers of necessary components to be included in their educational programs of the roles and functions of parenting coordinators and the limitations of any statutory or rule provisions, so that the expectations of attorneys and judges are realistic.

This article will inform parenting coordinators about the attitudes and possible unrealistic expectations of judges and attorneys in order to anticipate and manage ethical dilemmas in the parenting coordination process.

Readers will be able to identify the positive outcomes of parenting coordination perceived by judges, attorneys, and parenting coordinators and to consider improvements to the process.
EDUCATION WELL‐BEING: COURT OUTCOME MEASURES FOR CHILDREN IN FOSTER CARE
Authors: Sydow Nora E. , Flango Victor E.
Published: July 2012

Courts, child welfare agencies, and schools are all important to the achievement of safety, permanency, and well‐being for children in foster care. Although safety and permanency performance measures have been established, tested, and implemented, the development of court‐related well‐being measures have not. This article describes the initial effort to establish a set of educational well‐being measures to track success in improving educational outcomes for children in foster care.

Key Points for the Family Court Community:

This article provides insights to assist children in care achieve successful educational outcomes—a key to becoming self‐sufficient, productive adults.

These newly developed education performance measures provide courts with a tool to measure the educational outcomes for children and youth under its jurisdiction.
Determination of Uncertainty in Transition Velocity Estimates for Ceramic Materials
Authors: Portune Andrew R. , Hilton Corydon D.
Published: July 2012

The uncertainty of transition velocity estimates made for five armor ceramic materials was quantified by applying Bayesian hypothesis testing to the McCauley Wilantewicz method. Likelihood functions of the ceramic plasticity parameter and estimated transition velocity for each material were determined through analysis of load–hardness probability spaces. Parameters of these functions were analyzed to quantify variability in expected material performance. The applied statistical methodology enabled formation of probability of penetration curves that indicated how the certainty of interface defeat varied as a function of impact velocity. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of results increases the utility of the McCauley Wilantewicz method as a screening tool for ceramic materials by providing additional information regarding the variability of expected material performance. Information revealed by this statistical approach could potentially be harnessed to drive future material development by indicating microstructural states more likely to result in desirable material behavior.
Trophic Niche Differentiation and Microhabitat Utilization in a Species‐rich Montane Forest Small Mammal Community of Eastern Madagascar
Authors: Dammhahn Melanie , Soarimalala Voahangy , Goodman Steven M.
Published: July 2012

Unraveling the mechanisms facilitating species coexistence in communities is a central theme in ecology. Species‐rich tropical mammal communities provide excellent settings to explore such mechanisms as they often harbor numerous congeneric species with close phylogenetic relationships. Explicit tests for the mechanisms that allow syntopic occurrence in these assemblages, however, is often hampered because of the difficulty in obtaining detailed ecological data on the organisms making up the community. Using stable nitrogen and carbon ratios of hair samples, we examine whether trophic niche differentiation and microhabitat segregation explain the coexistence of 21 small mammal species at a montane humid forest site in eastern Madagascar. Overall, the community was trophically diverse and covered wide isotopic space. This diversity was based on: (1) a multi‐layered trophic community structure with mainly frugivorous‐granivorous rodents (subfamily Nesomyinae) as primary consumers and insectivorous tenrecs (family Tenrecidae) as secondary and tertiary consumers; (2) trophic segregation of rodents and tenrecs with the latter occupying different microhabitats; and (3) a dense and regular packing of species in the community. The 12 locally occurring
Microgale shrew tenrecs (subfamily Oryzorictinae) showed high trophic redundancy, but were maximally spaced from each other within the trophic space covered by the genus. Results of stable isotope analysis suggest that in combination the differentiation of microhabitats and trophic niches explain the coexistence of small mammals in this community. Congeneric species appeared to be under more intense competition compared with non‐congeneric species and their coexistence can only partly be explained by trophic and microhabitat niche segregation.
Evidence of strong quasar feedback in the early Universe
Authors: Maiolino R. , Gallerani S. , Neri R. , Cicone C. , Ferrara A. , Genzel R. , Lutz D. , Sturm E. , Tacconi L. J. , Walter F. , Feruglio C. , Fiore F. , Piconcelli E.
Published: July 2012

Most theoretical models invoke quasar-driven outflows to quench star formation in massive galaxies, and this feedback mechanism is required to account for the population of old and passive galaxies observed in the local Universe. The discovery of massive, old and passive galaxies at z ∼ 2 implies that such quasar feedback on to the host galaxy must have been at work very early on, close to the reionization epoch. We have observed the [C ii] 158 μm transition in SDSS J114816.64+525150.3, which, at z = 6.4189, is one of the most distant quasars known. We detect broad wings of the line tracing a quasar-driven massive outflow. This is the most distant massive outflow ever detected and is likely tracing the long-sought quasar feedback, already at work in the early Universe. The outflow is marginally resolved on scales of ∼16 kpc, implying that the outflow can really affect the whole galaxy, as required by quasar feedback models. The inferred outflow rate, Ṁ > 3500 M⊙ yr−1, is the highest ever found. At this rate, the outflow can clean the gas in the host galaxy, and therefore quench star formation, in a few million years.
Repeated call types in short‐finned pilot whales, Globicephala macrorhynchus
Authors: Sayigh Laela , Quick Nicola , Hastie Gordon , Tyack Peter
Published: July 2012

Abstract

Four short‐finned pilot whales, Globicephala macrorhynchus, were tagged with digital acoustic recording tags (DTAGs) for a total of 30 h in the Bahamas during 2007. Spectrograms were made of all audible sounds, which were independently categorized by three observers. Of 4,098 calls, 1,737 (42%) were placed into 173 call types, which were defined as calls that occurred more than once. Of the 173 call types, 51 contained at least 10 calls (= 24), and were termed predominant call types (PCTs), which comprised 1,219 (70%) of categorized calls. PCTs tended to occur in sequences of the same call, which appeared to be produced by a single animal. However, matching interactions consisting of adjacent or overlapping calls of the same type were also observed, and some call types were recorded on more than one tag, suggesting that at least some calls are shared by members of a group or subgroup. These results emphasize the importance of categorizing calls before attempting to draw conclusions about call usage and possible effects of noise on vocal behavior.
Response of southern right whales to simulated swim‐with‐whale tourism at Península Valdés, Argentina
Authors: Lundquist David , Sironi Mariano , Würsig Bernd , Rowntree Victoria , Martino Julieta , Lundquist Lesley
Published: July 2012

Abstract

Guidelines for sustainable tourism involving swimming with large whales are not well‐developed compared to those focused on programs of swimming with delphinids. From September to November 2005 and August to September 2006, we collected behavioral and movement data for southern right whales (Eubalaena australis) exposed to interactions with boats and swimmers at Península Valdés, Argentina. Whales were tracked from shore using a theodolite before, during, and after a series of directed interactions with swimmers and a boat. Resting, socializing, and surface active behavior decreased, traveling increased, and whales swam faster and reoriented more often during interactions. Responses were variable by age/sex class, with mother/calf pairs showing strongest responses. Increased levels of tourism activity are a concern, as reduction in resting time and disruption of socialization among adults, juveniles, and mother/calf pairs have unknown long‐term consequences. Additional data should be collected for whale behavior in proposed tourism and nontourism areas to build a long‐term database which can be used to determine if reactions of whales change over time. Our data suggest that swimming with whales in Chubut Province should not be legalized until further investigations are completed, especially in light of the recent southern right whale die‐offs recorded in Península Valdés.
Diuretics for Hypertension—Reasons for a Contradiction in Primary Care Prescribing Behavior: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Lamers Henrik , Joos Stefanie , Goetz Katja , Hermann Katja , Szecsenyi Joachim , Kühlein Thomas
Published: July 2012

J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2012;14:680–685 ©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

There has been a long international discussion on diuretics as first‐line therapy for hypertension. In Germany, thiazide diuretics are very rarely prescribed in monotherapy and concurrently highly prescribed in fixed‐combinations. The aim of this study was to approach the reasons for this inconsistency in primary care prescribing behavior. A qualitative study design consisting of single interviews with general practitioners (GPs) was chosen. Most GPs perceived diuretics as too weak to treat arterial hypertension effectively in monotherapy. In combination therapy, GPs expected to spare the dose and to offset certain side effects of other drugs. The convenient availability of diuretics in most fixed‐dose combinations on the German drug market was seen as an important reason for their frequent prescription in combination therapy. Thus, the reasons given by the GPs differed from the main arguments of the academic debate. Dissemination strategies for guidelines should take the perceptions and opinions of practicing GPs into account.
Complications of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding: Our local experience
Authors: Low Vincent HS , Tan Jeremy , Lu Joy
Published: July 2012

Obesity is a major medical problem both within Australia as well as throughout the developed world. Achievement of weight loss for any individual patient brings an additional desirable benefit of improvement or resolution of a wide range of comorbid conditions.

Bariatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with the causes, prevention and treatment of obesity and allied diseases. The term bariatrics was created around 1965, from the Greek root baro (‘weight’ as in barometer), suffix ‐iatr (relating to medical treatment) and suffix ‐ic (‘pertaining to’). Besides the pharmacotherapy of obesity, it is concerned with obesity surgery. Bariatric surgery refers to surgical procedures of the gastrointestinal tract that are designed to induce weight loss.

The treatment of obesity traditionally relied on non‐surgical techniques to modify behaviour in regard to diet and exercise. This has variable and limited success. More recently, bariatric surgery has become the most rapidly growing form of treatment for obesity in recent years. In fact, it is the only current therapy that has been shown to achieve major and durable weight loss.

It is important for the radiologist to be familiar with the normal anatomical appearance of the more common bariatric operations and to be able to recognise their potential complications on imaging. The aim of this pictorial essay is to give an insight into some of the more common complications of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding surgery encountered in our centre during the period of 2001–2007.
Cardamine guatemalensis sp. nov. (Brassicaceae) from Guatemala
Authors: Al‐Shehbaz Ihsan A.
Published: July 2012

Cardamine guatemalensis Al‐Shehbaz is described from Zacapa, Guatemala. Its features such as the perennial, scapose, rhizomatous habit and simple leaves are very rare among North American Brassicaceae. The distinguishing characters from other species of Cardamine are discussed.
How effective are the sustainability criteria accompanying the European Union 2020 biofuel targets?
Authors: Frank Stefan , Böttcher Hannes , Havlík Petr , Valin Hugo , Mosnier Aline , Obersteiner Michael , Schmid Erwin , Elbersen Berien
Published: July 2012

The expansion of biofuel production can lead to an array of negative environmental impacts. Therefore, the European Union (EU) has recently imposed sustainability criteria on biofuel production in the Renewable Energy Directive (RED). In this article, we analyse the effectiveness of the sustainability criteria for climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. We first use a global agriculture and forestry model to investigate environmental effects of the EU member states National Renewable Energy Action Plans (NREAPs) without sustainability criteria. We conclude that these targets would drive losses of 2.2 Mha of highly biodiverse areas and generate 95 Mt CO
2 eq of additional greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, in a second step, we demonstrate that the EU biofuel demand could be satisfied ‘sustainably’ according to RED despite its negative environmental effects. This is because the majority of global crop production is produced ‘sustainably’ in the sense of RED and can provide more than 10 times the total European biofuel demand in 2020 if reallocated from sectors without sustainability criteria. This finding points to a potential policy failure of applying sustainability regulation to a single sector in a single region. To be effective this policy needs to be more complete in targeting a wider scope of agricultural commodities and more comprehensive in its membership of countries.
The importance of experiments: Constraints on chondrule formation models
Authors: DESCH Steven J. , MORRIS Melissa A. , CONNOLLY Harold C. , BOSS Alan P.
Published: July 2012

Abstract— We review a number of constraints that have been placed on the formation of chondrules and show how these can be used to test chondrule formation models. Four models in particular are examined: the “X‐wind” model (sudden exposure to sunlight <0.1 AU from the proto‐Sun, with subsequent launching in a magnetocentrifugal outflow); solar nebula lightning; nebular shocks driven by eccentric planetesimals; and nebular shocks driven by diskwide gravitational instabilities. We show that constraints on the thermal histories of chondrules during their melting and crystallization are the most powerful constraints and provide the least ambiguous tests of the chondrule formation models. Such constraints strongly favor melting of chondrules in nebular shocks. Shocks driven by gravitational instabilities are somewhat favored over planetesimal bow shocks.