bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Essential roles of grp94 in gut homeostasis via chaperoning canonical Wnt pathway
Authors: Liu Bei , Staron Matthew , Hong Feng , Wu Bill X. , Sun Shaoli , Morales Crystal , Crosson Craig E. , Tomlinson Stephen , Kim Ingyu , Wu Dianqing , Li Zihai
Published: April 2013

Increasing evidence points to a role for the protein quality control in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) in maintaining intestinal homeostasis. However, the specific role for general ER chaperones in this process remains unknown. Herein, we report that a major ER heat shock protein grp94 interacts with MesD, a critical chaperone for the Wnt coreceptor low-density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 6 (LRP6). Without grp94, LRP6 fails to export from the ER to the cell surface, resulting in a profound loss of canonical Wnt signaling. The significance of this finding is demonstrated in vivo in that grp94 loss causes a rapid and profound compromise in intestinal homeostasis with gut-intrinsic defect in the proliferation of intestinal crypts, compromise of nuclear β-catenin translocation, loss of crypt-villus structure, and impaired barrier function. Taken together, our work has uncovered the role of grp94 in chaperoning LRP6-MesD in coordinating intestinal homeostasis, placing canonical Wnt-signaling pathway under the direct regulation of the general protein quality control machinery in the ER.
Parasitoid wasps influence where aphids die via an interspecific indirect genetic effect
Authors: Khudr Mouhammad Shadi , Oldekop Johan A. , Shuker David M. , Preziosi Richard F.
Published: April 2013

Host–parasite interactions are a key paradigm for understanding the process of coevolution. Central to coevolution is how genetic variation in interacting species allows parasites to evolve manipulative strategies. However, genetic variation in the parasite may also be associated with host phenotype changes, thereby changing the selection on both species. For instance, parasites often induce changes in the behaviour of their host to maximize their own fitness, yet the quantitative genetic basis for behavioural manipulation has not been fully demonstrated. Here, we show that the genotype of the parasitoid waspAphidius ervihas a significant effect on where its aphid hostAcyrthosiphon pisummoves to die following parasitism, including the likelihood that the aphid abandons the plant. These results provide a clear example of an interspecific indirect genetic effect whereby the genetics of one species influences the expression of a specific behavioural trait in another.
Unusual anal fin in a Devonian jawless vertebrate reveals complex origins of paired appendages
Authors: Sansom Robert S. , Gabbott Sarah E. , Purnell M. A.
Published: April 2013

Jawed vertebrates (gnathostomes) have undergone radical anatomical and developmental changes in comparison with their jawless cousins (cyclostomes). Key among these is paired appendages (fins, legs and wings), which first evolved at some point on the gnathostome stem. The anatomy of fossil stem gnathostomes is, therefore, fundamental to our understanding of the nature and timing of the origin of this complex innovation. Here, we show thatEuphanerops, a fossil jawless fish from the Devonian, possessed paired anal-fin radials, but no pectoral or pelvic fins. This unique condition occurs at an early stage on the stem-gnathostome lineage. This condition, and comparison with the varied condition of paired fins in other ostracoderms, indicates that there was a large amount of developmental plasticity during this episode—rather than a gradual evolution of this complex feature. Apparently, a number of different clades were exploring morphospace or undergoing multiple losses.
Epidemiological effects of group size variation in social species
Authors: Caillaud Damien , Craft Meggan E. , Meyers Lauren Ancel
Published: April 2013

Contact patterns in group-structured populations determine the course of infectious disease outbreaks. Network-based models have revealed important connections between group-level contact patterns and the dynamics of epidemics, but these models typically ignore heterogeneities in within-group composition. Here, we analyse a flexible mathematical model of disease transmission in a hierarchically structured wildlife population, and find that increased variation in group size reduces the epidemic threshold, making social animal populations susceptible to a broader range of pathogens. Variation in group size also increases the likelihood of an epidemic for mildly transmissible diseases, but can reduce the likelihood and expected size of an epidemic for highly transmissible diseases. Further, we introduce the concept ofepidemiological effective group size, which we define to be the group size of a hypothetical population containing groups of identical size that has the same epidemic threshold as an observed population. Using data from the Serengeti Lion Project, we find that pride-living Serengeti lions are epidemiologically comparable to a homogeneous population with up to 20 per cent larger prides.
Spheres, Kähler geometry and the Hunter–Saxton system
Authors: Lenells Jonatan
Published: April 2013

Many important equations of mathematical physics arise geometrically as geodesic equations on Lie groups. In this paper, we study an example of a geodesic equation, the two-component Hunter–Saxton (2HS) system, which displays a number of unique geometric features. We show that 2HS describes the geodesic flow on a manifold, which is isometric to a subset of a sphere. Since the geodesics on a sphere are simply the great circles, this immediately yields explicit formulae for the solutions of 2HS. We also show that when restricted to functions of zero mean, 2HS reduces to the geodesic equation on an infinite-dimensional manifold, which admits a Kähler structure. We demonstrate that this manifold is in fact isometric to a subset of complex projective space, and that the above constructions provide an example of an infinite-dimensional Hopf fibration.
Generation of periodic travelling waves in cyclic populations by hostile boundaries
Authors: Sherratt Jonathan A.
Published: April 2013

Many recent datasets on cyclic populations reveal spatial patterns with the form of periodic travelling waves (wavetrains). Mathematical modelling has identified a number of potential causes of this spatial organization, one of which is a hostile habitat boundary. In this paper, the author investigates the member of the periodic travelling wave family selected by such a boundary in models of reaction–diffusion type. Using a predator–prey model as a case study, the author presents numerical evidence that the wave generated by a hostile (zero-Dirichlet) boundary condition is the same as that generated by fixing the population densities at their coexistence steady-state levels. The author then presents analysis showing that the two waves are the same, in general, for oscillatory reaction–diffusion models with scalar diffusion close to Hopf bifurcation. This calculation yields a general formula for the amplitude, speed and wavelength of these waves. By combining this formula with established results on periodic travelling wave stability, the author presents a division of parameter space into regions in which a hostile boundary will generate periodic travelling waves, spatio-temporal disorder or a mixture of the two.
A new three-dimensional silver(I) coordination framework with a diamondoid topology constructed from 2-(pyridin-4-yl)-1H-imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid
Authors: Deng Zhi-He , Peng Zhen-Jian , Huang Jun
Published: April 2013

The title compound, poly[[μ4-5-carboxy-4-carboxylato-2-(pyridin-4-yl)-1H-imidazol-1-ido]disilver(I)], [Ag2(C10H5N3O4)]n, was synthesized by reacting silver nitrate with 2-(pyridin-4-yl)-1H-imidazole-4,5-dicarboxylic acid (H3PyIDC) under hydrothermal conditions. The asymmetric unit contains two crystallographically independent AgIcations and one unique HPyIDC2−anion. Both AgIcations are three-coordinated in distorted T-shaped coordination geometries. One AgIcation is coordinated by one N and two O atoms from two HPyIDC2−anions, while the other is bonded to one O and two N atoms from two HPyIDC2−anions. It is interesting to note that the HPyIDC2−group acts as a μ4-bridging ligand to link the AgIcations into a three-dimensional framework, which can be simplified as a diamondoid topology. The thermal stability and photoluminescent properties of the title compound have also been studied.
Isomeric 3- and 4-chloro-N-[1-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)ethylidene]aniline
Authors: Su Bi-Yun , Wang Jia-Xiang , Liu Xiang , Li Qian-Ding
Published: April 2013

The title isomers, namely 3-chloro-N-[1-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)ethylidene]aniline, (I), and 4-chloro-N-[1-(1H-pyrrol-2-yl)ethylidene]aniline, (II), both C12H11ClN2, differ in the position of the chlorine substitution. Both compounds have the basic iminopyrrole structure, which shows a planar backbone with similar features. The dihedral angle formed by the planes of the pyrrole and benzene rings is 75.65 (7)° for (I) and 86.56 (8)° for (II). The H atom bound to the pyrrole N atom is positionally disordered and partial protonation occurs at the imino N atom in (I), while this phenomenon is absent from the structure of (II). Packing interactions for both compounds include intermolecular N—H...N hydrogen bonds and C—H...π interactions, forming centrosymmetric dimers for both (I) and (II).
‘If you feel that nobody wants you you'll withdraw into your own’: Gypsies/Travellers, networks and healthcare utilisation
Authors: Smith David , Ruston Annmarie
Published: April 2013

Gypsies and Travellers are the unhealthiest group in British society, suffering from higher levels of physical and mental illness, lower life expectancy and with low levels of healthcare utilisation. They also continue to experience the highest level of prejudice and discrimination in society. While studies indicate that social networks play an important role in shaping health beliefs and the response to symptoms, evidence on the influence of networks on health is unclear and contradictory. This article draws on social network theory and research into the relation between discrimination and health to critically examine how networks mediate between collective experiences of racism and health‐related behavior. Qualitative interviews with 39 adult Gypsies and Travellers were conducted in the South‐East of England to explore the wider structural and institutional context and the influence those contexts play in shaping health beliefs and decisions whether to access formal health services. The findings indicate that the influence networks play in shaping health behaviour is dependent on the particular social context of the group and its status in relation to wider social structures, making generalization problematic.
Undoing gender? The case of complementary and alternative medicine
Authors: Brenton Joslyn , Elliott Sinikka
Published: April 2013

Despite a rich body of sociological research that examines the relationship between gender and health, scholars have paid little attention to the case of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). One recent study (Sointu 2011) posits that men and women who use CAM challenge traditional ascriptions of femininity and masculinity through the exploration of self‐care and emotions, respectively. Drawing on 25 in‐depth interviews with middle‐class Americans who use CAM, this article instead finds that men and women interpret their CAM use in ways that reproduce traditional gendered identities. Men frame their CAM use in terms of science and rationality, while simultaneously distancing themselves from feminine‐coded components of CAM, such as emotions. Women seek CAM for problems such as abusive relationships, low self‐esteem, and body image concerns, and frame their CAM use as a quest for self‐reinvention that largely reflects and reproduces conventional femininity. Further, the reproduction of gendered identities is shaped by the participants' embrace of neoliberal tenets, such as the cultivation of personal control. This article contributes to ongoing theoretical debates about the doing, redoing and undoing of gender, as well as the literature on health and gender.
Hidden acidosis: an explanation of acid–base and lactate changes occurring in umbilical cord blood after delayed sampling
Authors: Mokarami P , Wiberg N , Olofsson P
Published: April 2013

Objective

To explore the ‘hidden acidosis’ phenomenon, in which there is a washout of acid metabolites from peripheral tissues in both vaginal and abdominal deliveries, by investigating temporal umbilical cord blood acid–base and lactate changes after delayed blood sampling.

Design

Prospective comparative study.

Setting

University hospital.

Sample

Umbilical cord blood from 124 newborns.

Methods

Arterial and venous cord blood was sampled immediately after birth (T0), and at 45 seconds (T45), from unclamped cords with intact pulsations taken from 66 neonates born vaginally and 58 neonates born via planned caesarean section at 36–42 weeks of gestation. Non‐parametric tests were used for statistical comparisons, with P < 0.05 considered significant.

Main outcome measures

Temporal changes (T0–T45) in umbilical cord blood pH, the partial pressure of CO2 () and O2 (), and in the concentrations of lactate, haematocrit (Hct), and haemoglobin (Hb).

Results

In both groups all arterial parameters, except for in the group delivered by caesarean section, changed significantly (pH decreased and the other variables increased). There were corresponding changes in venous acid–base parameters. When temporal arterial changes were compared between the two groups, the decrease in pH and increase in were more pronounced in the group delivered vaginally. Neonates born vaginally had significantly lower pH and higher lactate, Hct, and Hb concentrations at T0 and T45 in both the artery and the vein. At T45, arterial and levels in the group delivered vaginally were also significantly higher.

Conclusions

Delayed umbilical cord sampling affected the acid–base balance and haematological parameters after both vaginal and caesarean deliveries, although the effect was more marked in the group delivered vaginally. The hidden acidosis phenomenon explains this change towards acidaemia and lactaemia. Arterial haemoconcentration was not the explanation of the acid–base drift.
Interobserver variability of radiation therapists aligning to fiducial markers for prostate radiation therapy
Authors: Deegan Timothy , Owen Rebecca , Holt Tanya , Roberts Lisa , Biggs Jennifer , McCarthy Alicia , Parfitt Matthew , Fielding Andrew
Published: April 2013

Introduction

As the use of fiducial markers (FMs) for the localisation of the prostate during external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) has become part of routine practice, radiation therapists (RTs) have become increasingly responsible for online image interpretation. The aim of this investigation was to quantify the limits of agreement (LoA) between RTs when localising to FMs with orthogonal kilovoltage (kV) imaging.

Methods

Six patients receiving prostate EBRT utilising FMs were included in this study. Treatment localisation was performed using kV imaging prior to each fraction. Online stereoscopic assessment of FMs, performed by the treating RTs, was compared with the offline assessment by three RTs. Observer agreement was determined by pairwise Bland‐Altman analysis.

Results

Stereoscopic analysis of 225 image pairs was performed online at the time of treatment, and offline by three RT observers. Eighteen pairwise Bland‐Altman analyses were completed to assess the level of agreement between observers. Localisation by RTs was found to be within clinically acceptable 95% LoAs.

Conclusions

Small differences between RTs, in both the online and offline setting, were found to be within clinically acceptable limits. RTs were able to make consistent and reliable judgements when matching FMs on planar kV imaging.
Development of the first standardised panel of two new microsatellite multiplex PCRs for gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.)
Authors: Lee‐Montero I. , Navarro A. , Borrell Y. , García‐Celdrán M. , Martín N. , Negrín‐Báez D. , Blanco G. , Armero E. , Berbel C. , Zamorano M. J. , Sánchez J. J. , Estévez A. , Ramis G. , Manchado M. , Afonso J. M.
Published: April 2013

The high number of multiplex PCRs developed for gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) from many different microsatellite markers does not allow comparison among populations. This highlights the need for developing a reproducible panel of markers, which can be used with safety and reliability by all users. In this study, the first standardised panel of two new microsatellite multiplex PCRs was developed for this species. Primers of 138 specific microsatellites from the genetic linkage map were redesigned and evaluated according to their genetic variability, allele size range and genotyping reliability. A protocol to identify and classify genotyping errors or potential errors was proposed to assess the reliability of each marker. Two new multiplex PCRs from the best assessed markers were designed with 11 markers in each, named SMsa1 and SMsa2 (SuperMultiplex Sparus aurata). Three broodstocks (59, 47 and 98 breeders) from different Spanish companies, and a sample of 80 offspring from each one, were analysed to validate the usefulness of these multiplexes in the parental assignation. It was possible to assign each offspring to a single parent pair (100% success) using the exclusion method with SMsa1 and/or SMsa2. In each genotyped a reference sample (Ref‐sa) was used, and its DNA is available on request similar to the kits of bin set to genotype by genemapper (v.3.7) software (kit‐SMsa1 and kit‐SMsa2). This will be a robust and effective tool for pedigree analysis or characterisation of populations and will be proposed as an international panel for this species.
Diet‐induced pigmented purpuric dermatosis
Authors: Weiß Katharina T. , Karrer Sigrid , Landthaler Michael , Babilas Philipp , Schreml Stephan
Published: April 2013

Pigmented purpuric dermatoses (PPD) are chronic and relapsing disorders characterised by a localised or generalised purpuric rash. Even though the clinical presentation of PPD subtypes varies, they have a similar histopathology. The aetiology is largely unknown, but trigger factors, such as drugs, infections and systemic illnesses have been described. To our knowledge, this is the only case showing widespread PPD lesions not only induced but also rapidly provoked by dietary factors, namely Coca Cola and apple‐cherry fruit spritzer.
IL‐13‐producing BLT1‐positive CD8 cells are increased in asthma and are associated with airway obstruction
Authors: Dakhama A. , Collins M. L. , Ohnishi H. , Goleva E. , Leung D. Y. M. , Alam R. , Sutherland E. R. , Martin R. J. , Gelfand E. W.
Published: April 2013

Background

The role of CD8 T lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of asthma is not well understood. We investigated whether a subset of IL‐13‐producing BLT1‐positive CD8 T lymphocytes are present in asthmatic airways and are associated with impaired lung function.

Methods

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cells were obtained from asthmatic (n = 39) and healthy control (n = 28) subjects. Cells were stimulated with phorbol ester and ionomycin in the presence of brefeldin A and stained for CD8, BLT1, and intracellular IL‐13. The frequency of IL‐13‐producing BLT1‐positive CD8 T lymphocytes was compared between the two groups and related to lung function, serum IgE levels, and reticular basement membrane (RBM) thickness.

Results

A subset of CD8 T lymphocytes expressing BLT1 and producing IL‐13 were detected in the airways of all asthmatic subjects. The frequency of this subset among recovered lymphocytes was significantly higher in the airways of asthmatic subjects compared with controls (mean ± SEM: 16.2 ± 1.4 vs 5.3 ± 0.5, respectively, P < 0.001) and correlated positively with serum IgE levels and RBM thickness. More importantly, the frequency of CD8 T lymphocytes co‐expressing BLT1 and IL‐13 was inversely related to FEV1 and FEF[25–75] percent predicted values (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A subset of CD8 T lymphocytes expressing BLT1 and producing IL‐13 is present in the airways of asthmatics. The accumulation of these cells is associated with airway obstruction, suggesting that they may play a significant pathogenic role in bronchial asthma.
Role of comorbid conditions in asthma hospitalizations in the south of France
Authors: Aubas C. , Bourdin A. , Aubas P. , Gamez A. S. , Halimi L. , Vachier I. , Malafaye N. , Chanez P. , Molinari N.
Published: April 2013

Background

Reasons for asthma hospitalizations are dynamic and complex. Comorbid conditions are important contributors to most chronic diseases today. We aim to characterize and describe risk factors associated with hospitalizations due to asthma in the Languedoc‐Roussillon region (France) in 2009.

Methods

Programme de Médicalisation des Systèmes d'Information (PMSI) data records from 2009 were sorted using selected International Classification of Diseases (ICD10) codes eliciting three groups of asthma hospitalizations according to acute severity. All available data including demographics, comorbid conditions, past hospitalizations either related or unrelated to asthma, seasonality and distance to medical facilities were used to compare the subjects within the three groups.

Results

One thousand two hundred and eighty‐nine hospitalizations due to asthma exacerbation were found, concerning 1122 patients. We observed significant differences within the groups, using univariate analysis, concerning duration of hospitalizations (mean ± SD, 4.9 ± 5.9 days vs 6.4 ± 6.8 vs 15.8 ± 16.8, P < 0.001), deaths (percentage, 0.03% vs 1.50% vs 9.20%, P < 0.001) and numbers of comorbid conditions (0.80 ± 0.95 vs 0.75 ± 0.97 vs 1.74 ± 1.36, P < 0.001). Recurrent admissions for asthma during the period 2006–2008 were significantly more frequent in the more severe group (1.93 ± 3.91 vs 2.56 ± 4.47 vs 2.81 ± 3.97, P = 0.006). In the multivariate model, age and number of comorbid conditions were independently associated with severe hospitalizations and deaths.

Conclusions

Asthma hospitalizations can be appropriately assessed using PMSI coding databases. In this study, age and the presence of comorbid conditions are the major risk factors for asthma hospitalizations and deaths.
Vitamin D and intraocular pressure – results from a case –control and an intervention study
Authors: Krefting Einar Andreas , Jorde Rolf , Christoffersen Terje , Grimnes Guri
Published: April 2013

Purpose:  To study the associations between serum 25‐hydroxy‐vitamin D (25(OH)D) levels, vitamin D administration and intraocular pressure (IOP).

Methods:  The design of the study included a nested case–control study and a randomized controlled intervention trial. In the first part, healthy Caucasians with high or low serum 25(OH)D levels were recruited from a population‐based study. IOP of the right eye was measured by the use of a rebound tonometer. In the second part, those with low serum 25(OH)D levels were randomized to receive either capsules of vitamin D3 20 000 IU twice per week or placebo for 6 months before IOP was measured again.

Results:  Intraocular pressure in the 87 participants with low serum 25(OH)D levels (mean 40.1 ± 12.9 nm) did not differ from IOP in the 42 participants with high serum 25(OH)D levels (mean 85.1 ± 14.0 nm) (15.9 ± 3.3 mmHg versus 15.6 ± 3.1 mmHg, p = 0.56, independent t‐test). After intervention, IOP decreased by −0.8 ± 2.1 mmHg (p = 0.017, paired t‐test) in the vitamin D group (n = 39) and −0.8 ± 2.5 mmHg (p = 0.059) in the placebo group (n = 39), but the change was not significantly different between the groups (p = 0.92, independent t‐test).

Conclusion:  This study in healthy participants revealed no associations between serum 25(OH)D levels and IOP, and administration of vitamin D3 to participants with low levels of 25(OH)D did not affect IOP. These results do not support a role of vitamin D in the regulation of IOP.
Shifting Paradigms and Dynamics of Indonesia‐China Relations: Toward the Best Use of Theoretical Eclecticism
Authors: Kosandi Meidi
Published: April 2013

In the last two decades, Indonesia has been swiftly maneuvering between China and the United States in the context of the great powers' contest in the region. But a look further into history shows deeper dynamics of Indonesia‐China relations, in which Indonesia demonstrates paradigm shifts of its China policy on the verge of China's rise toward great power status. This article argues for the best use of theoretical eclecticism to comprehend Indonesia's policy perspective toward China's rise as a great power.
Jesson, Jill & Peacock, Graham (2012) The really useful ict bookRoutledge (New York & London) isbn 978‐0‐415‐59277‐2 216 pp £24.99 http://www.routledge.com/books/details/9780415592772/
Authors: Cowan John
Published: April 2013

This is written as an up‐to‐date guide to the effective and imaginative use of information technology in primary classrooms, in a range of subjects and activities. However, much of its content and approach will offer ideas and inspiration to those who teach at other levels. If the content of this book may well be relevant, I recommend you buy your own copy.

John Cowan
Powell, Robert G & Powell, Dana L (2012) Classroom communication and diversityRoutledge (New York & London) isbn 978‐0‐415‐87719‐0 279 pp £25.99 http://www.routledge.com/books/details/9780415877190/
Authors: Dettori Giuliana
Published: April 2013

This interesting book, addressed both to novice and to experienced teachers, provides a theoretical and practical framework to foster positive communication in today's diverse classroom and to help educators view diversity as a valuable resource. It highlights the importance of the context in which communication takes place, because this can determine the emergence of different facets of diversity. If this book's content is likely to be relevant to you, I recommend you arrange to borrow a copy for a time.

Giuliana Dettori
Accelerated Tau Aggregation, Apoptosis and Neurological Dysfunction Caused by Chronic Oral Administration of Aluminum in a Mouse Model of Tauopathies
Authors: Oshima Etsuko , Ishihara Takeshi , Yokota Osamu , Nakashima‐Yasuda Hanae , Nagao Shigeto , Ikeda Chikako , Naohara Jun , Terada Seishi , Uchitomi Yosuke
Published: April 2013

To clarify whether long‐term oral ingestion of aluminum (Al) can increase tau aggregation in mammals, we examined the effects of oral Al administration on tau accumulation, apoptosis in the central nervous system (CNS) and motor function using tau transgenic (Tg) mice that show very slowly progressive tau accumulation. Al‐treated tau Tg mice had almost twice as many tau‐positive inclusions in the spinal cord as tau Tg mice without Al treatment at 12 months of age, a difference that reached statistical significance, and the development of pretangle‐like tau aggregates in the brain was also significantly advanced from 9 months. Al exposure did not induce any tau pathology in wild‐type (WT) mice. Apoptosis was observed in the hippocampus in Al‐treated tau Tg mice, but was virtually absent in the other experimental groups. Motor function as assessed by the tail suspension test was most severely impaired in Al‐treated tau Tg mice. Given our results, chronic oral ingestion of Al may more strongly promote tau aggregation, apoptosis and neurological dysfunction if individuals already had a pathological process causing tau aggregation. These findings may also implicate chronic Al neurotoxicity in humans, who frequently have had mild tau pathology from a young age.
The Effect of Teachers' Memory‐Relevant Language on Children's Strategy Use and Knowledge
Authors: Grammer Jennie , Coffman Jennifer L. , Ornstein Peter
Published: April 2013

Building on longitudinal findings of linkages between aspects of teachers' language during instruction and children's use of mnemonic strategies, this investigation was designed to examine experimentally the impact of instruction on memory development. First and second graders (N = 54, Mage = 7 years) were randomly assigned to a science unit that varied only in teachers' use of memory‐relevant language. Pretest, posttest, and 1‐month follow‐up assessments revealed that although all participating children learned new information as a result of instruction, those exposed to memory rich teaching exhibited greater levels of strategic knowledge and engaged in more sophisticated strategy use in a memory task involving instructional content than did students exposed to low memory instruction. The findings provide support for a causal linkage between teachers' language and children's strategic efforts.
Reading Development in Young Children: Genetic and Environmental Influences
Authors: Logan Jessica A. R. , Hart Sara A. , Cutting Laurie , Deater‐Deckard Kirby , Schatschneider Chris , Petrill Stephen
Published: April 2013

The development of reading skills in typical students is commonly described as a rapid growth across early grades of active reading education, with a slowing down of growth as active instruction tapers. This study examined the extent to which genetics and environments influence these growth rates. Participants were 371 twin pairs, aged approximately 6 through 12, from the Western Reserve Reading Project. Development of word‐level reading, reading comprehension, and rapid naming was examined using genetically sensitive latent quadratic growth curve modeling. Results confirmed the developmental trajectory described in the phenotypic literature. Furthermore, the same shared environmental influences were related to early reading skills and subsequent growth, but genetic influences on these factors were unique.
ZAP70 expression in regulatory T cells in allergic rhinitis: effect of immunotherapy
Authors: Ciebiada M. , Kasztalska K. , Gorska‐Ciebiada M. , Górski P.
Published: April 2013

Background

Some allergic diseases may be accompanied by inappropriate number or malfunction of regulatory T cells, which seems to be modified by specific immunotherapy (SIT).

Objectives

To assess if immunotherapy affects regulatory T lymphocytes (Tregs) and their expression of zeta chain associated protein kinase (Zap70), which is essential for T cell activation and intracellular signal downstream transduction.

Methods

A 3‐year prospective, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind trial of grass SIT was conducted. Forty‐one patients sensitized to grass pollen with intermittent allergic rhinitis were randomized to receive SIT (n = 21) or placebo (n = 20) and 15 healthy were included as a control. Concentration of exhaled nitric oxide (ENO), lung function, symptom scores, the subsets of regulatory T cells (CD4+ CD25hiCD127low) which express ZAP70 and the level of ZAP70 expression in this subset were assessed at baseline and during the treatment period: before the onset, at the height of the pollen season and after the end of the pollen season.

Results

The concentration of nitric oxide and the symptom score were significantly higher in allergic rhinitis patients as compared with the control group. Natural allergen stimulation diminished both the numbers of regulatory T cells that express ZAP70 and the expression of Zap70 within these cells. In the second year of treatment, immunotherapy reduced significantly the symptom scores, concentrations of ENO (P < 0.01), intensively increased expression of ZAP70 in regulatory T cells (P < 0.001) and the percentage of cells that express ZAP70 (P < 0.05) at the height of the pollen season. Placebo treatment did not reduce scores, ENO (P > 0.05) nor had influence on Zap70 expression (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

SIT with grass pollen effectively reduces rhinitis severity and affects allergic airway inflammation reflected by reduction of ENO. Beneficial role of immunotherapy may result not only from the induction of Treg numbers but especially from cell activation and restitution of Treg intracellular signal transduction.
Regional differences in the frequency of the c.985A>G ACADM mutation: findings from a meta‐regression of genotyping and screening studies
Authors: Leal J. , Ades A.E. , Wordsworth S. , Dezateux C.
Published: April 2013

Several countries include medium‐chain acyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (MCAD) deficiency, a rare autosomal recessive disease, in their newborn screening programmes despite prevalence uncertainty. We estimated the frequency of its most common mutation, c.985A>G, tested for regional differences and compared screening and genotype frequencies. We identified 43 studies reporting the frequency of c.985A>G over 10 million individuals, and pooled frequency data using a novel Bayesian approach. We found significant variation in the frequency of the mutation across regions supporting a reported founder effect. The proportion of c.985A>G homozygotes was highest in Western Europe with 4.1 (95%CI: 2.8–5.6) per 100,000 individuals, then the New World (3.2, 95%CI: 2.0–4.7), Southern (1.2, 95%CI: 0.6–2.0) and Eastern European regions (0.9, 95%CI: 0.5–1.7). No cases with the mutation were identified in Asian and Middle Eastern regions. Significant differences were found in some countries between the genotype and screening allele frequency of c.985A>G. Our predictions could inform the frequency of the mutation by region and our approach could apply to other genetic conditions.
A Minority Subpopulation of CD133+/EGFRvIII+/EGFR− Cells Acquires Stemness and Contributes to Gefitinib Resistance
Authors: Liu Xu‐Jie , Wu Wen‐Tao , Wu Wei‐Hua , Yin Feng , Ma Si‐Hai , Qin Jia‐Zhen , Liu Xiu‐Xiu , Liu Yi‐Nan , Zhang Xiao‐Yan , Li Peng , Han Shuo , Liu Kai‐Yu , Zhang Jin‐Ming , He Qi‐Hua , Shen Li
Published: April 2013

Aims

To study the contribution of epidermal growth factor receptor variant III (EGFRvIII) to glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) stemness and gefitinib resistance.

Methods

CD133+ and CD133− cells were separated from EGFRvIII+ clinical specimens of three patients with newly diagnosed GBM. Then, RT‐PCR was performed to evaluate EGFRvIII and EGFR expression in CD133+ and CD133− cells. The tumorigenicity and stemness of CD133+ cells was verified by intracranial implantation of 5 × 103 cells into immunodeficient NOD/SCID mice. Finally, cells were evaluated for their sensitivity to EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibition by gefitinib.

Results

RT‐PCR results showed that the sorted CD133+ cells expressed EGFRvIII exclusively, while the CD133− cells expressed both EGFRvIII and EGFR. At 6–8 weeks postimplantation, CD133+/EGFRvIII+/EGFR− cells formed intracranial tumors. Cell counting kit‐8 results showed that the IC50 values of the three isolated EGFRvIII+ cell lines treated with gefitinib were 14.44, 16.00, and 14.66 μM, respectively, whereas the IC50 value of an isolated EGFRvIII− cell line was 8.57 μM.

Conclusions

EGFRvIII contributes to the stemness of cancer stem cells through coexpression with CD133 in GBMs. Furthermore, CD133+/EGFRvIII+/EGFR− cells have the ability to initiate tumor formation and may contribute to gefitinib resistance.
Bariatric surgery attrition secondary to psychological barriers
Authors: Mahony D.
Published: April 2013

Despite the effectiveness of bariatric surgery only 49% of the patients that enroll in bariatric surgery programmes complete the surgery. This study attempts to identify psychological barriers to bariatric surgery. A sample of 471 patients who were screened for medical indications for surgery, adequate health insurance and medical/psychological contraindications, were used. Participants were predominantly female (71.8%) and Caucasian (68.4%) with a mean body mass index (±standard deviation [SD]) of 47.84 (±7.53) and mean age (±SD) of 40.59 (±10.79). A total of 69.2% completed surgery (63.2% gastric bypass, 35.6% gastric band, 1.2% gastric sleeve). Participants with lower levels of global surgical anxiety, a preference for the gastric bypass, a childhood or adolescent onset of obesity, and more experience dieting, were more likely to complete surgery. No significant differences were found among groups for specific surgical anxieties or medical comorbidities. These findings suggest that factors that patients routinely report as surgical motivators, including comorbidities, may be necessary, but are not sufficient, for surgical completion. Other factors, such as a global surgical anxiety, and the patient's belief in their ability to lose weight without surgery, may play a large role in surgical attrition.
Predictors of cardiovascular events in hemodialysis patients after stress myocardial perfusion imaging
Authors: Furuhashi Tatsuhiko , Moroi Masao , Joki Nobuhiko , Hase Hiroki , Minakawa Megumi , Masai Hirofumi , Kunimasa Taeko , Fukuda Hiroshi , Sugi Kaoru
Published: April 2013

Cardiovascular prognosis in patients under normal stress myocardial perfusion images (MPI) is generally excellent. However, this is not true for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) treated by hemodialysis. This study evaluated prognostic factors of adverse cardiovascular events in hemodialysis patients in whom stress MPI was performed. Pharmacological stress MPI was performed in 88 hemodialysis patients, and we retrospectively followed‐up for 26 months. Cardiovascular events included cardiac death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and unstable angina. Cardiovascular events occurred in 16 patients (18%). Univariate Cox regression analysis revealed that peripheral artery disease (PAD) and parameters of stress MPI were significant predictors of cardiovascular events. Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that only PAD (hazard ratio = 6.54; P = 0.002), and abnormal stress MPI (hazard ratio = 8.26; P = 0.008) were independent and significant predictors of cardiovascular events. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed better prognosis in patients with normal stress MPI than in patients with abnormal stress MPI (P < 0.001, log–rank test). However, in patients with normal stress MPI, cardiovascular events occurred in 10 of the 76 patients (13%). Among patients with normal stress MPI, Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that patients with no PAD had better prognosis than patients with PAD (P = 0.001, log–rank test). In hemodialysis patients, both PAD and stress MPI were powerful cardiovascular predictors. Normal stress MPI alone cannot guarantee good prognosis in terms of cardiovascular events. Consideration of PAD may improve the predictive value of stress MPI in some patients.
Obesity in Children With Headaches: Association With Headache Type, Frequency, and Disability
Authors: Ravid Sarit , Shahar Eli , Schiff Aharon , Gordon Shirie
Published: April 2013

Objective

To examine the association between obesity and the different types of primary headaches, and the relation to headache frequency and disability

Background

The association between obesity and headache has been well established in adults, but only a few studies have examined this association in children, in particular, the relationship between obesity and different types of primary headaches.

Methods

The authors retrospectively evaluated 181 children evaluated for headaches as their primary complaint between 2006 and 2007 in their Pediatric Neurology Clinic. Data regarding age, gender, headache type, frequency, and disability, along with height and weight were collected. Body mass index was calculated, and percentiles were determined for age and sex. Headache type and features were compared among normal weight, at risk for overweight, and overweight children.

Results

A higher prevalence (39.8%) of obesity was found in our study group compared with the general population. The diagnosis of migraine, but not of tension‐type headache, was significantly associated with being at risk for overweight (odds ratio [OR] = 2.37, 95% confidence interval 1.21‐4.67, P = .01) or overweight (OR = 2.29, 95% confidence interval 0.95‐5.56, P = .04). A significant independent risk for overweight was present in females with migraine (OR = 4.93, 1.46‐8.61, P = .006). Regardless of headache type, a high body mass index percentile was associated with increased headache frequency and disability, but not with duration of attack.

Conclusions

Obesity and primary headaches in children are associated. Although obesity seems to be a risk factor for migraine more than for tension‐type headache, it is associated with increased headache frequency and disability regardless of headache type.
Stop Football … Save Brains: A Point Counterpoint Discussion
Authors: Robbins Lawrence , Conidi Frank
Published: April 2013

In a recent Opinion Editorial posted on the Listserv of the Southern Headache Society (http://www.SouthernHeadache.org), Dr. Lawrence Robbins of the Robbins Headache Clinic, Northbrook, Illinois, explored how headaches resulting from trauma are sometimes difficult to treat and often remain refractory. Most neurologists likely encounter young athletes who have a moderate‐to‐severe post‐concussion syndrome. The following discussion, therefore, is relevant to the practice of headache medicine. In this Point Counterpoint, Dr. Robbins has repurposed his OpEd once more for Headache, followed by a response from Dr. Frank Conidi of the Florida Center for Headache and Sports Neurology, and Team Neurologist for the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League. The discussion concludes with a retort from Dr. Robbins.
Non‐invasive liver fibrosis score calculated by combination of virtual touch tissue quantification and serum liver functional tests in chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Takaki Shintaro , Kawakami Yoshiiku , Miyaki Daisuke , Nakahara Takashi , Naeshiro Noriaki , Murakami Eisuke , Tanaka Mio , Honda Yohji , Yokoyama Satoe , Nagaoki Yuko , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Hiramatsu Akira , Tsuge Masataka , Hiraga Nobuhiko , Imamura Michio , Hyogo Hideyuki , Aikata Hiroshi , Takahashi Shoichi , Arihiro Koji , Chayama Kazuaki
Published: April 2013

Aim

Acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) technology, involving the shear wave velocity (SWV) with virtual touch tissue quantification (VTTQ), are currently available for the assessment of liver fibrosis, while there is no index derived from the combination of SWV and blood tests. The aim of this study was to develop a new index for assessment of liver fibrosis.

Methods

The subjects were 176 consecutive patients with hepatitis C (training set [n = 120] and validation set [n = 56]) who underwent liver biopsy in our institution.

Results

In the training set, SWV, international normalized ratio (INR) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) correlated independently and significantly with fibrosis. According to this, we developed the VIA index = −1.282 + 0.965 × SWV + 1.785 INR + 0.00185 ALT. The areas under the receiver–operator curve (AUROC) of the VIA index were 0.838 for the diagnosis of significant fibrosis (≥F2), 0.904 for the severe fibrosis (≥F3) and 0.958 for the cirrhosis (F4) in the training set. While in the validation set, AUROC of the VIA index were 0.917 for F2 or higher, 0.906 for F3 or higher and 1.000 for F4, respectively. AUROC of the VIA index was improved compared to SWV alone, equivalent for VIA for the diagnosis of F2 or higher, and superior to that of FIB‐4 index and aspartate aminotransferase‐to‐platelet ratio index for the diagnosis of F3 or higher and F4.

Conclusion

The VIA index is potentially more useful for assessment of liver fibrosis than SWV alone, and easily and accurately measures liver fibrosis stage.
Effect of reaction pH and CuSO4 addition on the formation of catechinone due to oxidation of (+)‐catechin
Authors: Matsubara T. , Wataoka I. , Urakawa H. , Yasunaga H.
Published: April 2013

Synopsis

A novel hair dyeing technique being milder and safer for a human body is desired. The oxidation product of (+)‐catechin, catechinone, was invented as a safer dyestuff for hair colouring under such the situation. The preparation of catechinone by a chemical oxidation is a practical way and the objective of the study is clarify the effect of the solution pH and in the presence or absence of Cu2+ on the formation rate and yield of catechinone in order to improve the efficiency of the dye formation. The catechinone formation was monitored by ultraviolet‐visible spectroscopy. Catechinone was prepared chemically from (+)‐catechin in aqueous solution with O2 gas introduced over a pH range of 7.1–11.7. The rate and amount of the dye formation increase with increasing pH. Dissociation of the hydroxyl group of the catechol part of (+)‐catechin is significant for the oxidation of (+)‐catechin and promotes the dye production. This is because the deprotonated (+)‐catechin has a higher reactivity with O2. The production of catechinone is accelerated by the addition of CuSO4 and the production rate reaches the maximum at pH = 8.8. (+)‐Catechin ‐ Cu2+ complexes are formed and the formation promotes the oxidation of the catechol part of (+)‐catechin at pH ≤ 8.8. On the other hand, the complex becomes too stable to proceed for the oxidation reaction at pH > 8.8.
Creation of Titania Artificial Interfaces with Geometric Patterns by Using Microstereolithography and Aqueous Solution Techniques
Authors: Kirihara Soshu , Itakura Yusuke , Tasaki Satoko
Published: April 2013

Titania micropatterns with periodic arrangements were successfully formed on glass substrates for use with electromagnetic wave energy resonance and localizations in terahertz frequency ranges. Geometric arrangements of acrylic polygonal tablets with titania particle dispersions were fabricated by using micropatterning stereolithography. Moreover, periodically arranged full anatase‐phase titania tablets were created homogeneously through liquid‐phase crystal depositions of water solvent processes, using microtemplates fabricated by using the stereolithography system. The terahertz wave properties were measured and calculated by using a time‐domain spectroscopic system and finite‐difference time‐domain method.
Effect of Heat Treatment Schedules and Glass Powder Particle Size on Glass Infiltration in Porous Alumina Preforms
Authors: Bajpai Preeti , Bhargava Parag
Published: April 2013

Glass infiltrated alumina is one of the popular materials for fabrication of dental prostheses. Achieving complete and uniform glass infiltration is important to achieve desired properties in dental prostheses. This study examined the role of various factors on glass infiltration in sintered porous alumina preforms (porosity ~ 27%). Observations on infiltration in porous alumina samples at a heating rate of 3°C/min at 1100°C for 2 h showed residual glass on the surfaces of the samples indicating incomplete infiltration. Rapid heating of the samples to the peak infiltration temperature by introducing the samples into a preheated furnace resulted in complete infiltration of glass into the samples in <90 min. In addition to heating rate during infiltration, influence of soaking duration and the particle size of glass powder on glass infiltration were also examined.
Income Comparison as a Determining Mechanism of Class Identification: A Quantitative and Simulation Study Using Japanese Survey Data
Authors: Maeda Yutaka , Ishida Atsushi
Published: April 2013

This paper questions whether personal income comparison explains the distributive gap between income and class identification by exploring the following two issues: empirical validity of income comparison as the determinant of class identification, and theoretical validity of income comparison for the distributive gap. For the first issue, we conduct a statistical analysis using data from the Social Stratification and Social Mobility surveys (1975–2005), and the Stratification and Social Psychology‐I survey (2010). We find that the criteria for choosing reference groups changed historically from residential proximity to occupational equality. In addition, income comparison with sensitive to lower‐income possessors and a distorted perception of income difference significantly affected class identification, except for the year of 1985. The simulation analysis employed to examine the second issue clarified that income comparison with the above‐mentioned features yields a less skewed distribution compared to that of class identification. The data also indicates that the empirical conditions of income are satisfied for realization of this result. Thus, we could ascertain empirical and theoretical validity of income comparison as explanation for the distributive gap between income and class identification.