bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropsychological tools in hepatology: a survival guide for the clinician
Authors: Montagnese S. , Schiff S. , De Rui M. , Crossey M. M. E. , Amodio P. , Taylor‐Robinson S. D.
Published: April 2012

Summary.  Neuropsychological assessment has three main applications in clinical hepatology: (i) to detect, grade and monitor liver failure‐related cognitive alterations in end‐stage liver disease (hepatic encephalopathy), (ii) to substantiate complaints of attention or concentration difficulties in patients with non‐cirrhotic chronic hepatitis C viral infection, and (iii) to screen patients who are being considered for liver transplantation for early signs of dementia. However, there is limited agreement on how cognitive assessment should be conducted in these patients, and how results should be interpreted and used to implement clinical decisions. In this review, we summarize the available literature on neuropsychological dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis and with chronic hepatitis C viral infection and provide some guidance on how to utilize neuropsychological assessment in practice.
The Wzx translocases for Salmonella enterica O‐antigen processing have unexpected serotype specificity
Authors: Hong Yaoqin , Cunneen Monica M. , Reeves Peter R.
Published: April 2012

Most Gram‐negative bacteria have an O antigen, a polysaccharide with many repeats of a short oligosaccharide that is a part of the lipopolysaccharide, the major lipid in the outer leaflet of the outer membrane. Lipopolysaccharide is variable with 46 forms in Salmonella enterica that underpin the serotyping scheme. Repeat units are assembled on a lipid carrier that is embedded in the cell membrane, and are then translocated by the Wzx translocase from the cytoplasmic face to the outer face of the cell membrane, followed by polymerization. The O antigen is then incorporated into lipopolysaccharide and exported to the outer membrane. The Wzx translocase is widely thought to be specific only for the first sugar of the repeat unit, despite extensive variation in both O antigens and Wzx translocases. However, we found for S. enterica groups B, D2 and E that Wzx translocation exhibits significant specificity for the repeat‐unit structure, as variants with single sugar differences are translocated with lower efficiency and little long‐chain O antigen is produced. It appears that Wzx translocases are specific for their O antigen for normal levels of translocation.
Proteolytic regulation of alginate overproduction in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Damron F. Heath , Goldberg Joanna B.
Published: April 2012

Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a Gram‐negative bacterium, is a significant opportunistic pathogen associated with skin and soft tissue infections, nosocomial pneumonia and sepsis. In addition, it can chronically colonize the lungs of cystic fibrosis (CF) patients. Overproduction of the exopolysaccharide called alginate provides P. aeruginosa with a selective advantage and facilitates survival in the CF lung. The in vitro phenotype of alginate overproduction observed on solid culture media is referred to as mucoid. Expression of the alginate machinery and biosynthetic enzymes are controlled by the extracytoplasmic sigma factor, σ22 (AlgU/T). The key negative regulator of both σ22 activity and the mucoid phenotype is the cognate anti‐sigma factor MucA. MucA sequesters σ22 to the inner membrane inhibiting the sigma factor's transcriptional activity. The well‐studied mechanism for transition to the mucoid phenotype is mutation of mucA, leading to loss of MucA function and therefore activation of σ22. Recently, regulated intramembrane proteolysis (RIP) has been recognized as a mechanism whereby proteolysis of the anti‐sigma factor MucA leads to active σ22 allowing P. aeruginosa to respond to environmental stress conditions by overproduction of alginate. The goal of this review is to illuminate the pathways leading to RIP that have been identified and proposed.
Differences in distribution and regulation of astrocytic aquaporin‐4 in human and rat hydrocephalic brain
Authors: Skjolding A. D. , Holst A. V. , Broholm H. , Laursen H. , Juhler M.
Published: April 2012

A. D. Skjolding, A. V. Holst, H. Broholm, H. Laursen and M. Juhler (2013) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology39, 179–191

Differences in distribution and regulation of astrocytic aquaporin‐4 in human and rat hydrocephalic brain

Aims: Aquaporin‐4 (AQP4) is the most abundant cellular water channel in brain and could be a molecular basis for a cerebrospinal fluid absorption route additional to the arachnoid villi. In the search for ‘alternative’ cerebrospinal fluid absorption pathways it is important to compare experimental findings with human pathophysiology. This study compares expression of AQP4 in hydrocephalic human brain with human controls and hydrocephalic rat brain. Methods: Cortical biopsies from patients with chronic hydrocephalus (n = 29) were sampled secondary to planned surgical intervention. AQP4 in human hydrocephalic cortex relative to controls was quantified by Western blotting (n = 28). A second biopsy (n = 13) was processed for immunohistochemistry [glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), CD68, CD34 and AQP4] and double immunofluorescence (AQP4 + GFAP and AQP4 + CD34). Brain tissue from human controls and kaolin‐induced hydrocephalic rats was processed in parallel. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were assessed qualitatively. Results: Western blotting showed that AQP4 abundance was significantly increased (P < 0.05) in hydrocephalic human brain compared with controls. AQP4 immunoreactivity was present in both white and grey matter. In human brain (hydrocephalic and controls) AQP4 immunoreactivity was found on the entire astrocyte membrane, unlike hydrocephalic rat brain where pronounced endfeet polarization was present. Endothelial AQP4 immunoreactivity was not observed. Conclusions: This study shows a significant increase in astrocytic AQP4 in human hydrocephalic cortex compared with control. Cell type specific expression in astrocytes is conserved between rat and human, although differences of expression in specific membrane domains are seen. This study addresses direct translational aspects from rat to human, hereby emphasizing the relevance and use of models in hydrocephalus research.
Aplasia ras homolog member I is downregulated in gastric cancer and silencing its expression promotes cell growth in vitro
Authors: Tang Hai‐Ling , Hu Yi‐Qun , Qin Xing‐Ping , Jazag Amarsanaa , Yang Hong , Yang Yi‐Xuan , Yang Xiao‐Ning , Liu Jing‐Jing , Chen Jian‐Min , Guleng Bayasi , Ren Jian‐Lin
Published: April 2012

Background and Aim:  Aplasia ras homolog member I (ARHI) is a maternally imprinted tumor suppressor gene. ARHI protein is widely expressed in many types of human tissues; however, its expression is frequently reduced or absent in various tumors and plays a tumor suppressor role for in vitro study. In this study, we investigated the expression level of ARHI in gastric cancer in order to investigate the function of ARHI and signaling pathways that might be linked during gastric cancer development.

Methods:  ARHI mRNA and protein expression levels were analyzed in primary gastric cancer tissues, adjacent noncancerous gastric tissues and gastric cancer cell lines using semi‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and immunohistochemistry, respectively.

Results:  Our results showed that both mRNA and protein expression levels of the ARHI gene were significantly downregulated (P < 0.05) in gastric cancer tissues and cell lines compared to the corresponding normal control groups. The protein expression level of ARHI was not associated with age, gender, location of tumor, tumor size or metastasis in patients with gastric cancer. However, a significant correlation between the level of ARHI protein expression and the degree of tumor differentiation and Tumor‐Node‐Metastasis stage was observed (P < 0.05). Furthermore, results of the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium and Transwell assays and flow cytometric analysis showed increased cell proliferation, migration and anti‐apoptotic capacities in the well‐differentiated gastric cancer MKN‐28 cell line, which has stably silenced ARHI protein expression.

Conclusion:  Our data indicate that ARHI expression is downregulated in human gastric cancer and it may be a novel tumor suppressive target for gastric cancer therapy.
Acute irreversible oxalate nephropathy in a lung transplant recipient treated successfully with a renal transplant
Authors: DHEDA SHYAM , SWAMINATHAN RAMYASUDA , MUSK MICHAEL , SINNIAH RAJALINGAM , LAWRENCE SHARON , IRISH ASHLEY
Published: April 2012

We report a 29 year old male cystic fibrosis patient with end stage lung disease and normal renal function who underwent a sequential double lung transplant. Medical history included: an ileal resection and pancreatic exocrine dysfunction. The postoperative period was complicated with haemorrhage and repeat surgery, requiring multiple blood transfusions and extensive antibiotic cover. Pancreatic supplements were interrupted. Acute renal failure attributed to haemodynamically‐mediated acute tubular necrosis was managed expectantly. He remained dialysis dependent 8 weeks post surgery and was maintained on triple immunosuppression with tacrolimus, mycophenolate and prednisolone. A DTPA study was consistent with ATN. Renal biopsy revealed features consistent with tubular injury due to acute oxalate nephropathy (AON). Further biochemical characterization excluded primary hyperoxaluria but confirmed increased 24 hour urinary oxalate. He was maintained on enhanced frequency HDF and subsequently received an uncomplicated live related renal transplant 10 months post lung transplant with only additional Basiliximab. Calcium Carbonate was continued to manage post transplant hyperoxaluria and an early renal biopsy excluded recurrent oxalate injury. Enteric hyperoxaluria due to malabsorption in patients with CF especially with ileal resection, in addition to loss of gut Oxalobacter Formigenes due to prolonged antimicrobials, increases the risk of AON. Increased awareness of this condition and screening prior to lung transplant is recommended.
Recurrence of anti‐neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody vasculitis in the kidney allograft
Authors: LAU DAVID , SUMMERS SHAUN , AMOS LIV , SIMPSON IAN , MULLEY WILLIAM
Published: April 2012

We report a case of recurrent anti‐cytoplasmic neutrophil antibody (ANCA)‐associated vasculitis post kidney transplantation. A 60‐year‐old woman underwent uncomplicated deceased‐donor kidney transplantation for end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) secondary to myeloperoxidase‐specific ANCA‐associated vasculitis, after six years of haemodialysis, and clinical remission. Immunosuppression was with Tacrolimus/Mycophenolate and Prednisolone after Basiliximab induction therapy. Five weeks post‐transplantation, an allograft biopsy, done for a rising creatinine and glomerular haematuria, revealed pauci‐immune crescentic glomerulonephritis. This was treated with pulse Methylprednisolone, increase in maintenance Prednisolone, 7 sessions of plasma exchange, and replacement of Mycophenolate with Cyclophosphamide. Tacrolimus was continued throughout. After 3 months of therapy a repeat allograft biopsy showed quiescent vasculitis. The Cyclophosphamide was then ceased, and Mycophenolate reinstituted. The patient has maintained clinical and histological stability. Reported rates of ANCA‐associated vasculitis recurrence post‐kidney transplantation have varied but are low compared with other types of glomerulonephritis and seemed to have further declined in the era of modern immunosuppression. Given the low recurrence rate and excellent outcomes in suitable patients, kidney transplantation remains the optimal form of renal replacement therapy for ESRD due to ANCA‐associated vasculitis. Whilst re‐introduction of Cyclophosphamide has been the mainstay of therapy, additional reported successful therapeutic strategies have included pulse Methylprednisolone, Plasma Exchange and Rituximab. Further study on the most effective and safest treatment options would be of use given the current paucity of data in this area.
Access to the kidney transplant waiting list: a time for reflection
Authors: Pussell B. A. , Bendorf A. , Kerridge I. H.
Published: April 2012

The limited availability of deceased donor kidneys for transplantation in Australia continues to be a matter of concern. Analysis of registry data suggests that the current renal transplant waiting list under‐represents the real demand for three reasons. Firstly, a very low proportion of dialysis patients across all age groups are wait‐listed for kidney transplantation; secondly, the percentage of dialysis patients listed for transplantation has fallen over time across all Australian states and territories; and thirdly, the number of patients wait‐listed varies significantly across the country. We explore possible reasons for these issues and call for new eligibility criteria that are both transparent and justifiable and balance equity and utility.
Prostate‐specific antigen concentration in young men: new estimates and review of the literature
Authors: Sutcliffe Siobhan , Pakpahan Ratna , Sokoll Lori J. , Elliott Debra J. , Nevin Remington L. , Cersovsky Steven B. , Walsh Patrick C. , Platz Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2012

Study Type – Diagnostic (cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

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

Although non‐recommended PSA testing has been reported in men younger than 40 years of age, there are few recognized data on PSA in younger American men, particularly younger African‐American men, to provide age‐ and race‐specific references.

Using data from an existing large study of young, male members of the US military, aged 28–36 years, the present study provides PSA reference distributions for young Caucasian‐American men (median = 0.56, 95th percentile = 1.42, range: <0.01–3.34 ng/mL) and African‐American men (median = 0.64, 95th percentile = 1.89, range: 0.12–6.45 ng/mL). Previous estimates from the literature are also summarized.

OBJECTIVE

To provide race‐specific prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) reference distributions for young men less than 40 years of age who might have undergone non‐recommended PSA testing because of their family history of prostate cancer or inadvertently as part of a standard panel of tests.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We used data from a large existing study of young, male Caucasian‐ and African‐American members of the US military with stored serum in the Department of Defense serum repository.

As part of this previous study, we selected a random sample of 373 Caucasian‐ and 366 African‐American men aged 28–36 years with an archived serum specimen collected for standard military purposes from 2004 to 2006.

We measured serum total PSA concentration in this specimen using the Beckman Coulter Access Hybritech PSA assay.

RESULTS

The PSA level ranged from <0.01 to 3.34 ng/mL among Caucasian‐American men, with a median of 0.56 ng/mL and a 95th percentile of 1.42 ng/mL.

The PSA level ranged from 0.12 to 6.45 ng/mL among African‐American men, with a median of 0.64 ng/mL and 95th percentile of 1.89 ng/mL.

The PSA level was significantly higher in African‐ than in Caucasian‐American men (P= 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The PSA estimates, together with those summarized from the literature, provide age‐ and race‐specific PSA reference distributions for young men who might have undergone non‐recommended PSA testing.

Comparisons by race could also begin to inform the timing of divergence of prostate cancer risk by race.
Use of Solovov–Badenoch principle in treating severe and recurrent vesico‐urethral anastomosis stricture after radical retropubic prostatectomy: technique and long‐term results
Authors: Simonato Alchiede , Gregori Andrea , Lissiani Andrea , Varca Virginia , Carmignani Giorgio
Published: April 2012

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Many different approaches have been used to treat bladder neck strictures and urinary incontinence after radical prostatectomy in the past. Most techniques are highly invasive and carry a high risk of complications.

The present study describes the use of the Solovov–Badenoch ‘pull‐through urethroplasty’ as well as artificial urinary sphincter implantation.

OBJECTIVE

To report our experience in the management of patients with combined urinary incontinence and stricture after radical prostatectomy with a two‐step approach: urethroplasty with a ‘pull‐through’ technique after the Solovov–Badenoch principle; and artificial urinary sphincter (AUS) insertion after 8–10 months.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated a cohort of 11 patients treated between September 2001 and January 2010.

RESULTS

There were no intraoperative complications in either procedure.

After urethroplasty one patient was unable to empty the bladder with complete urine retention without urethral stricture (treatment failure).

At 6 months after the urethroplasty 10 patients were completely incontinent and received AUS.

One previously irradiated patient developed urethral erosion 6 months after AUS implantation and underwent complete removal of the device.

After a mean (range) follow‐up of 65 (19–119) months, nine patients (81.8%) were continent with no post‐void residual urine and a perfectly functioning AUS.

CONCLUSION

Our experience with a two‐step approach (combined suprapubic/transperineal redo anastomosis and AUS placement) shows that redo vesico‐urethral anastomosis is easier than pure transperineal approaches with good results in restoring patency and that the transperineal step provides a dedicated operative field for AUS implantation with reduced risks of perioperative complications.
A Comparison between WCS and OPeNDAP for Making Model Results and Data Products Available through the Internet
Authors: Baart Fedor , de Boer Gerben , de Haas Wim , Donchyts Gennadii , Philippart Marc , van Koningsveld Mark , Plieger Maarten
Published: April 2012

Numerical models produce output with a large number of variables, grid cells and time steps. The same applies to algorithms that produce gridded datasets from sparse or abundant raw data. Further use of the resulting data products has been challenging, especially for dissemination outside the institute of origin. Due to the gradually increasing size of data products, simply downloading copies of them is becoming impossible. A gradual transition from traditional download methods to web services is therefore observed. Web services allow for on‐the‐fly access to subsets of data that were hitherto considered as indivisible granules. Here we compare the most mature candidates to serve gridded data through the web: the Open‐source Project for a Network Data Access Protocol (OPeNDAP) and Web Coverage Service (WCS) protocols. In the framework of the new Dutch National Model and Data Centre (NMDC.eu) a distributed data storage has been created by coupling OPeNDAP servers. A WCS service layer is provided for the same data. This allows us to compare OPeNDAP and WCS. Using several use cases, we compare the usability, performance and features of the two protocols.
Discharge‐planning for long‐term care needs: the values and priorities of older people, their younger relatives and health professionals
Authors: Denson Linley A. , Winefield Helen R. , Beilby Justin J
Published: April 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2013; 27; 3–12

Discharge‐planning for long‐term care needs: the values and priorities of older people, their younger relatives and health professionals

Discharge‐planning decisions about long‐term care (LTC) can be difficult and distressing for older people, families and discharge‐planning health professionals. Retrospective research suggests that despite good intentions and a shared focus on the best interests of the older person, stakeholders may hold very different values about good outcomes and how to decide them. We aimed to compare the opinions and values of frail elders living at home, younger relatives and health professionals experienced in discharge‐planning, prospectively: before, not after, a LTC decision. We interviewed three types of stakeholders (10 older people, 8 relatives and 18 health professionals) using a hypothetical vignette about a frail elder leaving hospital. In a mixed methods design, we quantitatively compared the discharge plans and decision‐makers that stakeholders suggested, and qualitatively analysed the 36 interview transcripts for participants’ articulation of underlying values during these discussions. Older participants often suggested safe restrictive options (residential care, proxy decision‐making) for the hypothetical frail elder, while advocating autonomy for themselves. Younger people generally endorsed autonomous decision‐making and less restrictive discharge options especially if the elder was mentally competent, but reported difficult ethical tensions between safety and autonomy. Individual personality and preferences, mental capacity, and the importance of personal care in supporting autonomy were central themes consistent with the Ecological Theory of Aging. Accordingly, discharge planners can usefully articulate the balance of safety and autonomy, conceptualizing home care as maintaining independence rather than accepting dependence. Ethical training should incorporate sophisticated models of practice specifying both psychological and physical safety as components of beneficence. Few elders adopt a consumer approach to LTC: health professionals can encourage mid‐life adults to consider later care needs when planning for retirement.
Dimethylsulfoxide potentiates the nerve conduction–blocking effect of lidocaine without augmentation of the intracellular lidocaine concentration in the giant axon of crayfish in vitro
Authors: Yano Takeshi , Ibusuki Shoichiro , Takasaki Mayumi , Tsuneyoshi Isao
Published: April 2012

The purpose of this study was to investigate how dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) potentiates the blocking action of lidocaine. A giant axon removed from a crayfish was used to investigate nerve conduction and intracellular lidocaine concentration. The maximum values of the differential waveform (dV/dt max) calculated from evoked action potentials were used for evaluating an inhibition of nerve conduction. The inhibition of the dV/dt max in low‐frequency stimulation (tonic block) and high‐frequency stimulation (phasic block) after perfusion of 1 mm lidocaine with or without 0.2 vol % DMSO, in which the concentration of DMSO alone had no anesthetic effect, was measured to evaluate the potentiating action of DMSO. The intracellular lidocaine concentration was measured via a lidocaine‐sensitive glass microelectrode during 30 min of perfusion of 1 mm lidocaine alone or in combination with DMSO. When applied without lidocaine, DMSO caused a dose‐dependent nerve conduction block when used at concentrations >1 vol %. The dV/dt max in the tonic block was significantly decreased when 0.2 vol % DMSO was added to the lidocaine solution (P = 0.004). In the phasic block, there was no significant potentiating action of DMSO. There were no significant differences in the intracellular lidocaine concentrations with or without DMSO. The potentiating effects of DMSO were observed only in the condition of low‐frequency stimulation and were not related to the intracellular lidocaine concentration in the giant axon of crayfish in vitro.
Neither oxidized nor anti‐oxidized low‐density lipoprotein level is associated with atherosclerosis or mortality in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Sevinc Ok Ebru , Kircelli Fatih , Asci Gulay , Altunel Ekrem , Ertilav Muhittin , Sipahi Savas , Bozkurt Devrim , Duman Soner , Ozkahya Mehmet , Toz Huseyin , Ok Ercan
Published: April 2012

It is anticipated that oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and anti‐oxLDL are associated with atherosclerosis and mortality. However, data on this issue are controversial and limited. We aimed to investigate the effect of these two markers on the extent and progression of atherosclerosis and mortality in a group of hemodialysis patients. In this prospective observational study with a follow‐up of 36 months, 124 hemodialysis patients were studied. Ninety‐five patients underwent carotid intima media thickness (CA‐IMT) measurement by B‐Mode ultrasonography both at baseline and at the end of the study. oxLDL and anti‐oxLDL were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The extent and progression of CA‐IMT, along with overall and cardiovascular mortality, were assessed. The mean age at baseline was 54.0 ± 14.8 years, 57.3% male and 20% diabetic. The mean oxLDL and anti‐oxLDL levels were 8.11 ± 3.16 mU/L and 1.30 ± 0.31, respectively. Baseline mean CA‐IMT was 0.82 ± 0.20 mm. Fifteen patients died during a follow‐up period of 28.5 ± 6.6 months, 11 from cardiovascular causes. Only oxLDL, not anti‐oxLDL, was correlated with the extent of atherosclerosis at baseline. However, both had no role in the progression of atherosclerosis. Also, in unadjusted and adjusted models, both parameters were not associated with overall or cardiovascular mortality. Neither oxLDL nor anti‐oxLDL level is associated with the progression of atherosclerosis or mortality in hemodialysis patients.
Through a glass less darkly: apoptosis and the germinal center response to antigen
Authors: Peperzak Victor , Vikstrom Ingela B. , Tarlinton David M.
Published: April 2012

Summary:  The regulation of cell death is crucial for normal immune responses. Apoptosis is required for appropriate affinity‐based recruitment of B cells into an immune response, for the normal expansion, contraction – and thereby selection – of B cells within germinal centers, and also for the normal expansion, contraction, and persistence of plasma cells, both extrafollicular and germinal center‐derived. In this review, we focus on the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis, which is mediated by the interaction of pro‐ and anti‐apoptotic members of the Bcl‐2 family of proteins. Early, relatively crude studies using transgene‐mediated over‐expression of pro‐survival proteins or germline‐encoded loss of pro‐apoptotic proteins demonstrated clearly the consequences of dysregulation of this apoptosis pathway on immunity. More recent studies have both been more targeted and extensive, meaning that a large number of Bcl‐2 family members have been assessed for roles in immune regulation in a relatively precise manner. These studies are revealing a level of specialization in the use of the pro‐survival proteins during immune responses, with several showing what appear to be stage‐specific contributions. Lastly, we consider the involvement of Bcl‐2 family proteins in the transformation of B cells at distinct stages of the response to antigen, comparing this involvement with that in the normal processes.
ULTRASONOGRAPHIC ASSESSMENT OF ABDOMINAL LYMPH NODES IN PUPPIES
Authors: Krol Lana , O'Brien Robert
Published: April 2012

The jejunal and medial iliac lymph nodes of 53 clinically normal dogs between the age of 4 and 6 weeks were examined ultrasonographically. At least two jejunal and both left and right medial iliac lymph nodes were seen in all dogs. One hundred forty‐five jejunal, 53 right medial iliac and 53 left medial iliac lymph nodes in six litters of dogs, for a total of 251 lymph nodes, were measured for cross sectional maximum diameters. Mean jejunal lymph node length was 16.4 mm (range 6.4–34.9 mm) and mean width was 6.0 mm (range 2.3–15.7 mm). The mean medial iliac lymph node length was 13.6 mm (range 7.2–27.8 mm) and mean width was 4.4 mm (range 1.9–8.2 mm). Significant differences of lymph node size, noted between and within breeds, may not be of clinical significance. The mean size of the combined left and right medial iliac nodes was within previously published ranges for normal adult dogs. Lymph nodes were described in four litters of dogs (162 lymph nodes). Lymph nodes were either uniformly hypoechoic (108/163, 66%) or centrally hyperechoic with a hypoechoic rim (55/163, 34%). Although most (60%) lymph nodes were oval, a variety of shapes were seen, including vermiform and complex branching shapes. We concluded that in 4‐ to 6‐week‐old dogs, medial iliac lymph nodes are similar in size to adult dogs and jejunal lymph nodes are multiple, routinely seen, are larger than in adults and often have unconventional shapes.
Nitrogen Under‐ and Over‐supply Induces Distinct Protein Responses in Maize Xylem SapF
Authors: Liao Chengsong , Liu Renyi , Zhang Fusuo , Li Chunjian , Li Xuexian
Published: April 2012

Xylem sap primarily transports water and mineral nutrients such as nitrogen (N) from roots to shoots in vascular plants. However, it remains largely unknown how nitrogenous compounds, especially proteins in xylem sap, respond to N under‐ or over‐supply. We found that reducing N supply increased amino‐N percentage of total N in maize (Zea mays L.) xylem sap. Proteomic analysis showed that 23 proteins in the xylem sap of maize plants, including 12 newly identified ones, differentially accumulated in response to various N supplies. Fifteen of these 23 proteins were primarily involved in general abiotic or biotic stress responses, whereas the other five proteins appeared to respond largely to N under‐ or over‐supply, suggesting distinct protein responses in maize xylem upon N under‐ and over‐supply. Furthermore, one putative xylanase inhibitor and two putative O‐glycosyl hydrolases had preferential gene expression in shoots.
Charpentiers Illusion bei gerade nach vorn gerichtetem Blick. Experimente und Erklärung1
Authors: Björkman Allan , Göthlin G. Fr.
Published: April 2012

Charpentiers Täuschung trat bei den meisten Versuchspersonen —17 von 19 — auch bei gerade nach vorn gerichtetem Blick auf.

Ein konstantes Verhältnis zwischen einerseits der Richtung, in der sich ein zentrales und in dunklem Blickfeld fixiertes optisches Nachbild infolge einer vorhandenen Tonusasymmetrie der äußeren Augenmuskeln zu bewegen scheint, und andererseits der Richtung, in der sich ein im dunkeln Raum bei gerade nach vorn gerichtetem Blick fixierter Lichtpunkt scheinbar bewegt (Charpentiers Täuschung), konnte bei den Versuchen nicht nachgewiesen werden.

Wenn sich also die Illusion auch bei gerade nach vorn gerichtetem Blick einstellt, so ist sie dann am einfachsten deutbar als eine Wirkung von ungleich rascher Ermüdung der verschiedenen Vektorgruppen der äußeren Augenmuskeln, die beim Fixieren wirksam sind, so daß, wenn eine bestimmte Vektorgruppe rascher ermüdet als die anderen, sie relativ stärker als die übrigen innerviert werden muß, damit die Fixationsrichtung beibehalten werden kann. Hierdurch tritt ein Übergewicht an Innervationsempfindung — vgl. 7 S. 57 — für diese Vektorgruppe ein. Dieses Übergewicht an Innervationsempfindung in einer bestimmten Drehungsrichtung ruft seinerseits in dem dunklen, bis auf den Lichtpunkt objektlosen Raum die Vorstellung hervor, daß sich der fixierte Lichtpunkt selbst in der Wirkungsrichtung dieser Vektorgruppe bewegt.
Zur Frage nach dem oxydativen Abbau der Stärkesubstanzen1
Authors: Thunberg T.
Published: April 2012

Die vorliegende Mitteilung ist eine Fortsetzung der früheren Untersuchungen des Verfassers über den oxydativen Abbau der Stärkestoffe durch ein im Gurkensamen befindliches Enzym. Die Frage, die den Verf. schon in der vorigen Mitteilung beschäftigte, war, ob dem oxydativen Abbau eine hydrolytische Spaltung und Phosphorylierung vorausgehen. Der Effekt von Vergiftungsversuchen mit Halogenfettsäuren ließ darauf schließen, daß das Stärkemolekül direkt angegriffen wird. Hier setzt Verf. seine Versuche fort, besonders unter Verwendung von Phlorrhizin. Da dieser die Phosphorylierung hemmende Stoff die Oxydation von Stärkestoffen in einem Phosphatextrakt von Cucumis kaum hemmt, spricht dies gegen die Annahme, daß die Oxydation eine vorherige Phosphorylierung voraussetzt. Magnesium, das wegen seines intimen Zusammenhangs mit den Phosphatasen untersucht wurde, beeinflußt ebenfalls die Oxydation der Stärkestoffe nicht.

Johan och Therese Anderssons Minnesfond sage ich für die Bereitstellung von Mitteln für die Durchführung dieser Untersuchung meinen Dank.
Radiotherapy with concurrent or sequential temozolomide in elderly patients with glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Hashem Sameh A , Salem Ahmed , Al‐Rashdan Abdulla , Ezam Najeeb , Nour Ala'a , Alsharbaji Amer , Rejeeth Chandrababu , Mohamad Issa , Sughayer Maher , Elyan Maher , Al‐Hussaini Maysa , Addasi Ala' , Almousa Abdelatif
Published: April 2012

Objective: The objective of this article was to evaluate therapeutic outcomes of elderly patients with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) treated by surgery followed by combined modality therapy and compare achievable outcomes to those of a younger age population.

Methods and Materials: Seventy‐eight adult patients with histologically confirmed grade IV astrocytoma were treated at King Hussein Cancer Center (Amman, Jordan) between September 2004 and December 2008. Records were retrospectively reviewed and included 55 males and 23 females between 19 and 78 years of age (median age 50 years). This case series included 20 patients aged 60 years or older. All patients underwent craniotomy followed radiotherapy and concurrent or sequential temozolomide. The follow‐up ranged from 1 to 56 months (median 9.4 months).

Results: The median survival for the whole cohort was 13.8 months. The median survival for patients less than 60 years was 14.3 months and for patients 60 years or older was 12.3 months (P = 0.19). Among elderly patients, radical surgical resection (P = 0.002), concurrent delivery of chemoradiation (0.041) and radiotherapy dose ≥5400 cGy (P = 0.0001) conferred statistically significant improvements in overall survival.

Conclusion: Management of GBM in elderly patients should include maximal surgical resection followed by radiotherapy and temozolomide whenever medically feasible. Outcomes comparable to those obtained in younger age groups can be expected. Our results indicate that concurrent chemoradiation is superior to sequential chemoradiation in these patients.
Cost analysis of lung cancer management in South Western Sydney
Authors: Kang Sharlyn , Koh Eng‐Siew , Vinod Shalini K. , Jalaludin Bin
Published: April 2012

Introduction: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer mortality in Western nations, and associated health‐care costs are escalating. The aim of this study was to describe the current pattern of resource use and direct medical costs associated in managing lung cancer in South Western Sydney, Australia.

Methods: All new cases of primary lung carcinoma discussed at the Liverpool and Macarthur Cancer Therapy Centre (CTC) Lung Cancer Multidisciplinary Team meeting or seen at CTC between 1 December 2005 and 21 December 2006 were reviewed. Staging investigations, hospitalisation, treatment and follow‐up investigations were documented from first consultation to last follow‐up (31 October 2008 or death). Cost estimates were based on the Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule and reported in Australian dollars. Infrastructure, staff and non‐medical costs were excluded.

Results: There were 210 patients, median age 68.2 years (range 39–90) with median follow‐up of 16.6 months. The pathology and stage distribution were: 3.8% limited stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC), 10.0% extensive stage SCLC, 13.4% stage I and II non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), 28.5% stage III NSCLC and 44.3% stage IV NSCLC. The estimated total cost for managing this patient cohort was A$2.91 million. The cost components were: staging investigations (10.1%), treatment 41.2% (2.8% surgery, 15.8% radiotherapy and 22.6% chemotherapy), hospitalisation (43.7%) and follow‐up investigations (5%). The median costs for managing NSCLC and SCLC subgroups were A$10 675 (range A$669–612 789) and A$14 799 (range A$908–31 057), respectively.

Conclusion: Hospitalisation and cancer treatment, particularly chemotherapy, accounted for the major components of direct medical costs in the management of lung cancer.
Coliform enteritis in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta)
Authors: Nath Bichitra Gopal , Chakraborty Apurba , Rahman Taibur
Published: April 2012

Background and aim: Death of non‐human primates due to enteritis is common. The present study examined 27 carcasses of non‐human primates and documented two enteritis cases in rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) of Assam State Zoo. Methods: For histopathological examination, fragments of small intestine and colon were collected from necropsied animals, fixed in 10% buffered formaldehyde solution, and processed by routine paraffin embedding techniques and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. We cultured contents of intestinal tracts and selected tissues for their microflora. Results: At post mortem examination, grossly hemorrhages and ulceration in the intestines were noticed. Microscopical examination revealed degenerative changes of the epithelial cells of the villi and capillary congestion in the lamina propria and in the submucosa. Cultural examination showed the presence of Eschericia coli in the intestine. Conclusions: The study recommended that under certain environmental conditions, pathogenic E. coli were able to multiply and cause death of animals.
Thermal Nanofluid Property Model With Application to Nanofluid Flow in a Parallel Disk System—Part II: Nanofluid Flow Between Parallel Disks
Authors: Feng Yu , Kleinstreuer Clement
Published: April 2012

This is the second part of a two-part paper which proposes a new theory explaining the experimentally observed enhancement of the thermal conductivity, knf, of nanofluids (Part I) and discusses simulation results of nanofluid flow in an axisymmetric jet-impingement cooling system using different knf-models (Part II). Specifically, Part II provides numerical simulations of convective nanofluid heat transfer in terms of velocity profiles, friction factor, temperature distributions, and Nusselt numbers, employing the new knf-model. Flow structures and the effects of nanoparticle addition on heat transfer and entropy generation are discussed as well. Analytical expressions for velocity profiles and friction factors, assuming quasi-fully-developed flow between parallel disks, have been derived and validated for nanofluids as well. Based on the numerical simulation results for both alumina-water nanofluids and pure water, it can be concluded that nanofluids show better heat transfer performance than convectional coolants with no great penalty in pumping power. Furthermore, the system’s entropy generation rate is lower for nanofluids than for pure water.
DSMC Scheme for Phonon Transport in Solid Thin Films
Authors: Matsumoto Mitsuhiro , Okano Masaya , Masao Yusuke
Published: April 2012

Analysis of phonon dynamics based on a linearized Boltzmann transport equation is widely used for thermal analysis of solid thin films, but couplings among various phonon modes appear in some situations. We propose a direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) scheme to simulate the phonon gas starting without the conventional linearization approximation. This requires no relaxation time as an input parameter, and we can investigate the couplings among phonons with different modes. A prototype code based on a simple phonon model was developed, and energy flux was evaluated for thin films of various thickness as a test calculation.
Performance Simulations of a Gas Turbine Disk-Blade Assembly Employing Miniature Radially Rotating Heat Pipes
Authors: Cao Yiding , Ling Jian
Published: April 2012

With a substantially increased gas inlet temperature in modern gas turbines, the cooling of turbine disks is becoming a challenging task. In order to reduce the temperature at the disk rim, a new turbine disk incorporating radially rotating heat pipes has been proposed. The objective of this paper is to conduct a numerical investigation for the cooling effectiveness of the rotating heat pipe. One of the major tasks of this paper is to compare the performance between a proposed disk-blade assembly incorporating radially rotating heat pipes and a conventional disk-blade assembly without the heat pipes under the same heating and cooling conditions. The numerical investigation illustrates that the turbine disk cooling technique incorporating radially rotating heat pipes is feasible. The maximum temperature at the rim of the proposed disk can be reduced by more than 100 °C in comparison with that of a conventional disk without heat pipes. However, the average temperature at the blade airfoil surface can be reduced by only about 10 °C. In addition, both the heat pipe length and diameter have an important effect on the turbine disk cooling. Under the permission of material strength, a longer heat pipe or a larger heat pipe diameter will produce a lower temperature at the disk rim.
A model for the spatial coherence of arbitrarily directive noise in the depth-stratified ocean
Authors: Walker Shane C.
Published: April 2012

Though referred to as noise, the ambient ocean soundscape carries valuable information about the physical ocean environment. To study this information, Kuperman and Ingenito introduced a model for spatial coherence in a depth stratified ocean arising from the vertically directive diffuse acoustic noise produced by bubbles distributed throughout the surface. Here the model is adapted to incorporate horizontal directivity as well, making it possible to include additional noise contributions from directive features such as storms, biologics, shipping, and wave breaking. As an analytic approach, the model can serve as a computationally light complement to existing methods.
Historical and Recent Achievements in the Field of Microbial Degradation of Natural and Synthetic Rubber
Authors: Yikmis Meral , Steinbüchel Alexander
Published: April 2012

This review intends to provide an overview of historical and recent achievements in studies of microbial degradation of natural and synthetic rubber. The main scientific focus is on the key enzymes latex-clearing protein (Lcp) from the Gram-positiveStreptomycessp. strain K30 and rubber oxygenase A (RoxA) from the Gram-negativeXanthomonassp. strain 35Y, which has been hitherto the only known rubber-degrading bacterium that does not belong to the actinomycetes. We also emphasize the importance of knowledge of biodegradation in industrial and environmental biotechnology for waste natural rubber disposal.
Modified Cre-
loxP
Recombination in Aspergillus oryzae by Direct Introduction of Cre Recombinase for Marker Gene Rescue
Authors: Mizutani Osamu , Masaki Kazuo , Gomi Katsuya , Iefuji Haruyuki
Published: April 2012

Marker rescue is an important molecular technique that enables sequential gene deletions. The Cre-
loxP
recombination system has been used for marker gene rescue in various organisms, including aspergilli. However, this system requires many time-consuming steps, including construction of a Cre expression plasmid, introduction of the plasmid, and Cre expression in the transformant. To circumvent this laborious process, we investigated a method wherein Cre could be directly introduced into
Aspergillus oryzae
protoplasts on carrier DNA such as a fragment or plasmid. In this study, we define the carrier DNA (Cre carrier) as a carrier for the Cre enzyme. A mixture of commercial Cre and nucleic acids (e.g., pUG6 plasmid) was introduced into
A. oryzae
protoplasts using a modified protoplast-polyethylene glycol method, resulting in the deletion of a selectable marker gene flanked by
loxP
sites. By using this method, we readily constructed a marker gene-rescued strain lacking
ligD
to optimize homologous recombination. Furthermore, we succeeded in integrative recombination at a
loxP
site in
A. oryzae
. Thus, we developed a simple method to use the Cre-
loxP
recombination system in
A. oryzae
by direct introduction of Cre into protoplasts using DNA as a carrier for the enzyme.
Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli O104:H4: a New Challenge for Microbiology
Authors: Muniesa Maite , Hammerl Jens A. , Hertwig Stefan , Appel Bernd , Brüssow Harald
Published: April 2012

In 2011, Germany experienced the largest outbreak with a Shiga toxin-producing
Escherichia coli
(STEC) strain ever recorded. A series of environmental and trace-back and trace-forward investigations linked sprout consumption with the disease, but fecal-oral transmission was also documented. The genome sequences of the pathogen revealed a clonal outbreak with enteroaggregative
E. coli
(EAEC). Some EAEC virulence factors are carried on the virulence plasmid pAA. From an unknown source, the epidemic strains acquired a lambdoid prophage carrying the gene for the Shiga toxin. The resulting strains therefore possess two different mobile elements, a phage and a plasmid, contributing essential virulence genes. Shiga toxin is released by decaying bacteria in the gut, migrates through the intestinal barrier, and is transported via the blood to target organs, like the kidney. In a mouse model, probiotic bifidobacteria interfered with transport of the toxin through the gut mucosa. Researchers explored bacteriophages, bacteriocins, and low-molecular-weight inhibitors against STEC. Randomized controlled clinical trials of enterohemorrhagic
E. coli
(EHEC)-associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) patients found none of the interventions superior to supportive therapy alone. Antibodies against one subtype of Shiga toxin protected pigs against fatal neurological infection, while treatment with a toxin receptor decoy showed no effect in a clinical trial. Likewise, a monoclonal antibody directed against a complement protein led to mixed results. Plasma exchange and IgG immunoadsoprtion ameliorated the condition in small uncontrolled trials. The epidemic O104:H4 strains were resistant to all penicillins and cephalosporins but susceptible to carbapenems, which were recommended for treatment.
Bactericidal Antibiotics Do Not Appear To Cause Oxidative Stress in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Feld Louise , Knudsen Gitte M. , Gram Lone
Published: April 2012

Oxidative stress can be an important contributor to the lethal effect of bactericidal antibiotics in some bacteria, such as
Escherichia coli
and
Staphylococcus aureus
. Thus, despite the different target-specific actions of bactericidal antibiotics, they have a common mechanism leading to bacterial self-destruction by internal production of hydroxyl radicals. The purpose of the present study was to determine if a similar mechanism is involved in antibiotic killing of the infectious human pathogen,
Listeria monocytogenes
. We treated wild-type
L. monocytogenes
and oxidative stress mutants (Δ
sod
and Δ
fri
) with three different bactericidal antibiotics and found no difference in killing kinetics. In contrast, wild-type
E. coli
and an oxidative stress mutant (Δ
sodA
Δ
sodB
) differed significantly in their sensitivity to bactericidal antibiotics. We conclude that bactericidal antibiotics did not appear to cause oxidative stress in
L. monocytogenes
and propose that this is caused by its noncyclic tricarboxylic acid (TCA) pathway. Hence, in this noncyclic metabolism, there is a decoupling between the antibiotic-mediated cellular requirement for NADH and the induction of TCA enzyme activity, which is believed to mediate the oxidative stress reaction.