bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gaussian Process Gauss–Newton for non-parametric simultaneous localization and mapping
Authors: Tong Chi Hay , Furgale Paul , Barfoot Timothy D.
Published: May 2013

In this paper, we present Gaussian Process Gauss–Newton (GPGN), an algorithm for non-parametric, continuous-time, nonlinear, batch state estimation. This work adapts the methods of Gaussian process (GP) regression to address the problem of batch simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) by using the Gauss–Newton optimization method. In particular, we formulate the estimation problem with a continuous-time state model, along with the more conventional discrete-time measurements. Two derivations are presented in this paper, reflecting both the weight-space and function-space approaches from the GP regression literature. Validation is conducted through simulations and a hardware experiment, which utilizes the well-understood problem of two-dimensional SLAM as an illustrative example. The performance is compared with the traditional discrete-time batch Gauss–Newton approach, and we also show that GPGN can be employed to estimate motion with only range/bearing measurements of landmarks (i.e. no odometry), even when there are not enough measurements to constrain the pose at a given timestep.
Mammographic and ultrasonographic features of triple-negative breast cancer: a comparison with other breast cancer subtypes
Authors: Kim Mi Young , Choi Nami
Published: May 2013

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known to be associated with aggressive biologic features and a poor clinical outcome. Therefore, early detection of TNBC without missing cancer is mandatory to improve prognosis.

Purpose

To retrospectively evaluate the mammographic and sonographic features of TNBC compared to ER (+) cancers and HER2 (+) cancers.

Material and Methods

From June 2011 through June 2012, mammographic and sonographic features of 281 surgically confirmed ER (+) cancers ( n = 153), HER2 (+) cancers ( n = 83), and TNBC ( n = 45) were retrospectively reviewed by two radiologists in consensus. The clinicopathological features were also compared between the three subtypes. Additionally the 45 TNBC cases were analyzed using morphologic criteria of ACR BI-RADS lexicon.

Results

Most TNBC (93.3%, 42 of 45) were mammographically seen and presented with mass or focal asymmetry without microcalcifications ( P < 0.001). Ultrasonographically TNBC were presented as hypoechoic nodule without microcalcifications ( P < 0.001). Palpable symptom ( P < 0.001), a lower incidence of ductal carcinoma in situ ( P < 0.001), invasive tumor size that is >2 cm ( P = 0.028) and high histologic grade ( P < 0.001) were significantly associated with TNBC. With regard to morphologic features of 45 TNBC cases, TNBC were most likely to be hyperdense mass (89.3%) with oval (68.9%) or lobular shape (28.6%) and indistinct (42.9%) or circumscribed margin (32.1%) on mammogram. Ultrasonographically TNBC were most likely to be a hypoechoic mass (82.2%) with irregular (68.9%) or oval (28.9%) shape and microlobulated (46.7%), circumscribed (17.8%) or indistinct margin (17.8%) and parallel orientation (68.9%).

Conclusion

Being familiar with combined mammographic and ultrasonographic features of TNBC may be useful to avoid false-negative cases of TNBC.
Quantitative computed tomography assessment of bone mineral density after 2 years’ oral bisphosphonate treatment in postmenopausal osteoarthritis patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Lee Jin Kyu , Choi Choong H , Kang Chang-Nam
Published: May 2013

Objectives

To identify the effects of two years’ oral bisphosphonate (alendronate) treatment in patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty (TKA); to determine whether significant responses seen after the first year of treatment changed during the second year. Additionally, the study tried to identify factors relating to bone mineral density (BMD) changes.

Methods

This was a prospective 2-year follow-up study of a previous 1-year report of postmenopausal women with knee osteoarthritis who underwent primary unilateral or staged bilateral TKA, after which they received 70 mg alendronate orally once-weekly. BMD was measured using quantitative computed tomography (QCT) on lumbar vertebrae at baseline (pre-TKA) and at 12 and 24 months. Factors associated with BMD changes were determined by regression analysis.

Results

Sixty-one patients entered the second year and continued treatment for ≥24 months. Mean vertebral QCT BMDs at baseline and after 12 and 24 months’ alendronate treatment were 71.8 mg/ml (41.9–97.5 mg/ml), 69.3 mg/ml (31.4–103.9 mg/ml), and 72.7 mg/ml (33.1–136.1 mg/ml), respectively. Patients undergoing bilateral TKA and who had more severe OA at baseline (bilateral severe [grade 4] OA) had a lower BMD response after 2 years’ bisphosphonate treatment, compared with patients with less severe unilateral knee OA who underwent unilateral TKA. Improvements were, however, seen compared with year 1 levels. Low BMI was associated with BMD nonresponse.

Conclusions

Patients with bilateral severe OA (grade 4) requiring bilateral knee replacement are at greater risk of nonresponse after 2 years’ oral alendronate treatment. A longer duration of treatment may be necessary in these patients.
Efficacy of Point-of-View Video Modeling
Authors: Mason Rose A. , Davis Heather S. , Boles Margot B. , Goodwyn Fara
Published: May 2013

Point-of-view video modeling (POV), a variation of video-based modeling interventions, involves creating a video exemplar from a first-person perspective. The advantage is a significant reduction in extraneous stimuli, as well as increased efficiency in production. However, the lack of systematic analysis to evaluate differential impact on targeted outcomes for individuals with disabilities limits the identification of the population for whom POV is most appropriate, as well as the most efficacious implementation procedure. Through meta-analysis of single-subject studies using POV to improve targeted outcomes, this study identifies differential effects of participant characteristics, implementation procedures, and targeted outcomes. Results of the systematic search reveal that POV has only been implemented with individuals with developmental disabilities or an autism spectrum disorder. Analysis yielded an overall improvement rate difference (IRD) effect size of .78 (83.4% confidence interval [CI] = [.76, .80]). Furthermore, age, disability, and implementation variables moderate outcomes. Areas of future research and implications for practice are discussed.
A Novel Topical Rapamycin Cream for the Treatment of Facial Angiofibromas in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Wheless James W. , Almoazen Hassan
Published: May 2013

Facial angiofibromas are dermatological manifestations of tuberous sclerosis complex, a neurocutaneous disorder characterized by excess cell growth and proliferation. Oral rapamycin has been used to treat visceral tuberous sclerosis–related tumors; however, the side effect profile of this medicine precludes its routine use in patients lacking significant internal involvement. The authors formulated a novel rapamycin cream that is easy to compound and apply, does not cause local or systemic side effects, and results in a dramatic improvement of facial angiofibromas.
Beyond 12 Angry Men
Authors: Waller Mary J. , Sohrab Golchehreh , Ma Bernard W.
Published: May 2013

The ability of group members to shape group behaviors can greatly influence collective outcomes; however, the skills associated with correctly recognizing behaviors in situ and responding appropriately to them on a real-time basis are typically not emphasized in group dynamics education. In this article, we describe a pedagogical method that uses film excerpts and a thin-slicing technique specifically designed to help students develop such skills. We identify a variety of sample film excerpts that illustrate several group behaviors—behaviors that recent research suggests can influence group effectiveness in different contexts. We end by discussing which group phenomena may or may not be particularly well-suited to this technique.
Towards an enactive account of action: speaking and joint speaking as exemplary domains
Authors: Cummins Fred
Published: May 2013

Sense-making, within enactive theories, provides a novel way of understanding how a comprehensible and manageable world arises for a subject. Elaboration of the concept of sense-making allows a fundamental reframing of the notion of perception that does not rely on the pick up of information about a pre-given world. In rejecting the notion of the subject as an input/output system, it is also necessary to reframe the scientific account of skilled action. Taking speech as an exemplary domain, I here present the outline of an enactive account of skilled action that is continuous with the concept of sense-making. Extending this account to the rich domain of joint or synchronous speaking allows many of the principal themes of the emerging enactive account to be considered as they relate to a familiar and important human practice.
Study of the volatile compounds and odor-active compounds of dry-cured Iberian ham extracted by SPME
Authors: del Pulgar José Sánchez , García Carmen , Reina Raquel , Carrapiso Ana I
Published: May 2013

The volatile compounds and the most odor-active compounds of dry-cured Iberian ham were investigated by extracting them using a solid phase microextraction technique with a 2 cm Carboxen/PDMS/DVB fiber. The detection frequency method was applied to estimate the potential contribution of each compound to the odor of hams. Twenty-one volatile compounds were tentatively identified for the first time in dry-cured ham by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and eight in dry-cured Iberian ham. Gas chromatography-olfactometry allowed the identification for the first time of six compounds not previously reported as odorants of Iberian ham, and also two odorants were newly identified in dry-cured ham. According to the detection frequency method, the most odor active compounds found were 3-methylbutanoic acid (dirty sock-like smelling), hexanal (cut grass-like odor), 3-methylbutanal (sweaty and bitter almond-like odor), 2-methyl-3-furanthiol (toasted nuts-like odor) and 1-octen-3-one (mushroom-like odor).
Effect of ante-mortem hypoxia on the physicochemical and functional properties of white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) muscle stored on ice
Authors: García-Sifuentes Celia Olivia , Pacheco-Aguilar Ramón , Scheuren-Acevedo Susana María , Carvallo-Ruiz Gisela , Garcia-Sanchez Guillermina , Gollas-Galván Teresa , Hernández-López Jorge
Published: May 2013

The effect of ante-mortem hypoxia on the physicochemical and functional properties of raw and cooked white shrimp was studied. Hue angle was greater ( p ≤ 0.05) for stressed raw shrimp compared to control (greener color); whereas a lower angle was detected for cooked stressed shrimp (redder/orange coloration). In addition, hue angle increased ( p ≤ 0.05) over the ice storage period for control and stressed shrimp (raw and/or cooked). Muscle hardness and shear force showed no differences when comparing control and stressed shrimp (raw and/or cooked). However, during ice storage, shear force increased ( p ≤ 0.05) by 22% and 9% for control and stressed raw shrimp, respectively; in contrast, shear force and muscle hardness decreased for cooked shrimp ( p ≤ 0.05). Control showed more ( p ≤ 0.05) elasticity than stressed cooked shrimp. Stressed raw shrimp showed a water holding capacity 10.8% lower ( p ≤ 0.05) than control. However, during the storage, water holding capacity increased ( p ≤ 0.05) reaching similar values to control after day 4. Muscle protein solubility of stressed shrimp was 31% lower than control; however, no differences ( p > 0.05) were observed after the second day. The thermal stability of myosin ( Tmax) showed differences ( p ≤ 0.05) among control and stressed shrimp, whereas no differences for Δ H were observed. Results showed the influence of ante-mortem hypoxia on the physicochemical and functional properties of white shrimp muscle.
Proactive Environmental Strategies and Employee Inclusion
Authors: Aragón-Correa J. Alberto , Martín-Tapia Inmaculada , Hurtado-Torres Nuria Esther
Published: May 2013

The organizational literature has often acknowledged that under certain conditions, corporations should limit the information that employees receive and how they interact to improve corporate financial performance. The present article criticizes the logic of such corporate restrictions. Data obtained from 164 pharmaceutical firms operating in 27 different countries support the positive implications of inclusive and collaborative human resources practices. Our results reveal positive and significant relationships between the practices of information sharing with employees and promoting employee collaboration and the development of a proactive natural environmental strategy for a firm. In addition, this research tests the moderating role of general environment uncertainty in these relationships. Contrary to expectations based on contingency theory, uncertainty does not appear to moderate these results for the sampled firms.
The discourse of meritocracy contested/reproduced: Foreign women academics in UK business schools
Authors: Śliwa Martyna , Johansson Marjana
Published: May 2013

This article provides insights into the role of minority employees in reproducing and contesting the discourse of meritocracy in contemporary organizations. It also discusses the effects the contestation of meritocracy, or the lack thereof, has on organizational power relations and on the situation of individuals who are the target of meritocratic policies. Empirically, we address the experiences of a growing category of workers—women academics of non-UK origin—employed within UK business schools. Based on the analysis of narratives focusing on the career trajectories of our research participants, we show how the belief in, and paradoxically the questioning of, meritocratic principles contribute to the reproduction of inequalities. We conclude that, as a result of the overarching perpetuation, and only limited challenging of, extant power relations in organizations, both the current definitions of merit and the application of meritocratic principles remain unchanged.
Emotional intelligence, personality, and gender as factors in disordered eating patterns
Authors: Zysberg Leehu
Published: May 2013

We examined the hypotheses that proposing higher levels of emotional intelligence (ability test and self-report) and lower neuroticism, extraversion, and agreeableness associate with lower levels of disordered eating. In a correlational study, 126 Israeli college students completed two measures of emotional intelligence, a brief five-factor personality test, demographic data questionnaires, and questionnaires assessing food preoccupation, namely, the Body Weight, Image and Self-Esteem Scale and the Appearance Schema Inventory. Results suggested that ability emotional intelligence is associated with disordered eating beyond gender and personality. Self-reported emotional intelligence did not associate with any of the outcomes after controlling for personality. Implications and applications are briefly discussed.
Effects of distraction on negative behaviors and salivary α-amylase under mildly stressful medical procedures for brief inpatient children
Authors: Tsumura Hideki , Shimada Hironori , Morimoto Hiroshi , Hinuma Chihiro , Kawano Yoshiko
Published: May 2013

Inconsistent results have been reported on the effects of distraction on negative emotions during medical procedures in infants. These differing results may be attributable to the fact that the effects are apparent under a mildly stressful medical procedure. A total of 17 infants, 18 preschoolers, and 15 school-aged children who were hospitalized were administered, monitoring for vital signs, a mildly stressful medical procedure, by a nurse in a uniform with attractive character designs as a distractor. Consistent with the hypothesis, participating infants showed fewer negative behaviors and lower salivary α-amylase levels when distracted. The results support the efficacy of distraction in infants under a mildly stressful medical procedure.
Job satisfaction of women managers in Lebanon
Authors: Tlaiss Hayfaa A
Published: May 2013

This study examined the association between selected organizational factors and job satisfaction dimensions. The study sample consisted of 346 women managers working in the services industry in Lebanon. This study findings indicate that managerial rank, monthly salary, and the size of the organization have a statistically significant effect on the job satisfaction of Lebanese women managers. Overall, the data revealed that women managers in the services industry were satisfied with their careers, despite their dissatisfaction with pay, fringe benefits, and promotions. The findings present implications for business management processes, human resource practices, and government-led initiatives in Lebanon and in the Arab Middle East.
Teaching about religions and education in citizenship in France
Authors: Saint-Martin Isabelle
Published: May 2013

In the French school system, citizenship is treated in a civics course titled ‘Education in civics, laws and society’. However, it would be restrictive to narrow this topic to civics lessons, as the question resurfaces implicitly in other subjects. For instance, emphasis was placed in recent years on teaching about religions within existing disciplines. Various justifications for this have been advanced since the 1990s: cultural development, understanding the contemporary world, and finally, the need for community cohesion in view of growing religious diversity in France. The study of religions based on a secular and scientific approach is often assumed to provide a better understanding of diversity and to reinforce the teaching of tolerance and mutual respect. By intersecting these different aspects with the topic treated in civics, ‘Pluralism of beliefs and cultures in a secular Republic’, we examine how cultural diversity plays a role in citizenship education in France.
Focused Transthoracic Echocardiography Performed and Interpreted by Medical Residents in the Critically Ill
Authors: Caronia Jonathan , Kutnick Richard , Sarzynski Adrian , Panagopoulos Georgia , Mahdavi Ramyar , Mina Bushra
Published: May 2013

Purpose. Intensivist-performed focused echocardiography (FE) is accepted practice. Whether medical residents can perform and interpret quality FE in the critically ill is unknown. Methods. Novice residents trained in an 8-hour module in FE, evaluating ejection fraction (EF), pericardial effusion, right ventricular (RV) strain, valvular pathology, wall motion abnormalities (WMAs), and inferior vena cava collapsibility in patients awaiting comprehensive echocardiograms. The Fleiss kappa (κ), sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive values, and negative predictive values were calculated against the comprehensive echocardiogram. Results. Seven residents performed 102 FE, demonstrating substantial agreement with cardiologists for EF as decreased versus normal or hyperdynamic (κ = .67, P < .001, sensitivity = 94%, specificity = 93%) and pericardial effusion (κ = .60, P < .001, sensitivity = 85%, specificity = 93%); moderate agreement for aortic stenosis (κ = .54, P < .001, sensitivity = 56%, specificity = 98%), aortic insufficiency (κ = .50, P < .001, sensitivity = 47%, specificity = 97%), mitral regurgitation (κ = 0.51, P < .001, sensitivity = 65%, specificity = 90%), and WMAs (κ = .49, P < .001, sensitivity = 71%, specificity = 88%) and fair agreement for RV strain (κ = .38, P < .001, sensitivity = 41%, specificity = 95%). Conclusions. After an 8-hour course, resident FE demonstrated substantial agreement with comprehensive echocardiography for EF and pericardial effusion, moderate agreement for valvulopathy and WMAs and fair agreement for RV strain. Sensitivity and specificity were high for systolic dysfunction and pericardial effusion. Whereas sensitivity was lower for RV strain, valvular abnormalities, and WMAs, residents demonstrated excellent specificity for all parameters studied. Clinical implications. FE can be taught to residents to hasten diagnosis of key pathologies while awaiting comprehensive echocardiography.
Can the Intracuff Pressure Be Estimated by Palpation of the Pilot Balloon?
Authors: Bryant Jason , Werner Joseph , Moss Earl , Tobias Joseph D.
Published: May 2013

Background. Over the past 5 years, there has been a change in the clinical practice of pediatric anesthesiology with a transition to the use of cuffed instead of uncuffed endotracheal tubes in infants and children. However, there has been limited attention to techniques to ensure a safe intracuff pressure. We sought to determine the accuracy of estimating endotracheal tube intracuff pressure by palpation of the pilot balloon by anesthesiologists, anesthesia residents, pediatric anesthesia fellows, certified nurse anesthetists, and student nurse anesthetists. Methods. A tracheal simulation model was constructed with 3 different diameters of polyvinylchloride tubing. Three different-sized endotracheal tubes (4.0, 5.0, and 6.0 mm) were then placed into the tubes and the cuffs inflated to various pressures. Each participant was given 3 different scenarios of cuff pressure for each endotracheal tube size for a total of 9 scenarios per practitioner. By feeling the pilot balloon, the anesthesia provider was asked to estimate whether the cuff pressure was greater than 30 cm H2O, 20 to 30 cm H2O, or less than 20 cm H2O. The cuff pressure was then measured using a manometer to determine whether they had correctly estimated the intracuff pressure. Results. A total of 106 anesthesia providers participated in the study. Participants were able to estimate the correct intracuff pressure with palpation of the pilot balloon 45% of the time. In the remaining cases, the intracuff pressure was overestimated 29.4% of the time and underestimated 25.7% of the time. The intracuff pressure was correctly identified 44.4% of the time by attending physicians, 55.67% of the time by anesthesia residents or fellows, 50.6% of the time by certified nurse anesthetists, and 38.4% of the time by student nurse anesthetists. Conclusion. Participants from all the groups were unable to reliably estimate endotracheal intracuff pressure from palpation of the pilot balloon. Given the potential injury from excessive intracuff pressures, other techniques are necessary to ensure that excessive pressures are not present.
Shame on Me
Authors: Rothmund Tobias , Baumert Anna
Published: May 2013

In two experimental studies, we used a moral self-evaluation implicit association task to investigate reactions to personal moral transgressions. In Study 1, negative self-evaluation was higher after participants had been blamed for being late to the experiment compared to a control condition. In Study 2, participants imagined committing either (a) a moral transgression or (b) no moral wrongdoing. In the transgression condition, negative self-evaluation was increased compared to the control condition. This effect was particularly pronounced among participants high in dispositional shame-proneness. Moreover, in the transgression condition, negative moral self-evaluation mediated the effect of shame-proneness on the preference for physical cleansing products. The present findings contribute to a better understanding of the cognitive and affective processes that underlie moral motivation.
Membrane and capillary components of lung diffusion and pro-angiogenic cells in infants
Authors: Chang Daniel V. , Tiller Christina J. , Kisling Jeffrey A. , Case Jamie , Mund Julie A. , Haneline Laura S. , Ingram David A. , Tepper Robert S.
Published: May 2013

Angiogenesis is a critical determinant of alveolarisation, which increases alveolar surface area and pulmonary capillary blood volume in infants; however, our understanding of this process is very limited. The purpose of our study was to measure the pulmonary membrane diffusion capacity (DM) and pulmonary capillary blood volume (VC) components of the diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) in healthy infants and toddlers, and evaluate whether these components were associated with pro-angiogenic circulating haematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (pCHSPCs) early in life.

21 healthy subjects (11 males), 3–25 months of age, were evaluated.DLCOwas measured under normoxic and hyperoxic conditions, andDMandVCwere calculated. From 1 mL venous blood, pCHSPCs were quantified by multiparametric flow cytometry.

DMandVCincreased with increasing body length; however, membrane resistance as a fraction of total resistance to pulmonary diffusion remained constant with somatic size. In addition,DLCOandVC, but notDM, increased with an increasing percentage of pCHSPCs.

The parallel increase in the membrane and vascular components of pulmonary diffusion is consistent with alveolarisation during this period of rapid lung growth. In addition, the relationship between pCHSPCs andVCsuggest that pro-angiogenic cells may contribute to this vascular process.
Macitentan for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis: the randomised controlled MUSIC trial
Authors: Raghu Ganesh , Million-Rousseau Rachel , Morganti Adele , Perchenet Loїc , Behr Juergen ,   the MUSIC Study Group
Published: May 2013

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive, fatal disease. This prospective, randomised, double-blind, multicentre, parallel-group, placebo-controlled phase II trial (NCT00903331) investigated the efficacy and safety of the endothelin receptor antagonist macitentan in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Eligible subjects were adults with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis of <3 years duration and a histological pattern of usual interstitial pneumonia on surgical lung biopsy. The primary objective was to demonstrate that macitentan (10 mg once daily) positively affected forced vital capacityversusplacebo.

Using a centralised system, 178 subjects were randomised (2:1) to macitentan (n=119) or placebo (n=59). The median change from baseline up to month 12 in forced vital capacity was -0.20 L in the macitentan arm and -0.20 L in the placebo arm. Overall, no differences between treatments were observed in pulmonary function tests or time to disease worsening or death. Median exposures to macitentan and placebo were 14.5 months and 15.0 months, respectively. Alanine and/or aspartate aminotransferase elevations over three times upper limit of normal arose in 3.4% of macitentan-treated subjects and 5.1% of placebo recipients.

In conclusion, the primary objective was not met. Long-term exposure to macitentan was well tolerated with a similar, low incidence of elevated hepatic aminotransferases in each treatment group.
The C. elegans gene pan-1encodes novel transmembrane and cytoplasmic leucine-rich repeat proteins and promotes molting and the larva to adult transition
Authors: Gissendanner Chris R , Kelley Tram Do
Published: May 2013

Background

Extracellular leucine-rich repeat (eLRR) proteins are a highly diverse superfamily of membrane-associated or secreted proteins. In the membrane-associated eLRR proteins, the leucine-rich repeat motifs interact with the extracellular matrix and other ligands. Characterizing their functions in animal model systems is key to deciphering their activities in various developmental processes.

Results

In this study, we identifypan-1as a critical regulator ofC. eleganslarval development.pan-1encodes both transmembrane and cytoplasmic isoforms that vary in the presence and number of leucine-rich repeats. RNAi experiments reveal thatpan-1is required for developmental processes that occur during the mid to late larval stages. Specifically,pan-1loss of function causes a late larval arrest with a failure to complete development of the gonad, vulva, and hypodermis.pan-1is also required for early larval ecdysis and execution of the molting cycle at the adult molt. We also provide evidence thatpan-1functionally interacts with the heterochronic genelin-29during the molting process.

Conclusions

We show that PAN-1 is a critical regulator of larval development. Our data suggests that PAN-1 promotes developmental progression of multiple tissues during the transition from a larva to a reproductive adult. We further demonstrate that the activity of PAN-1 is complex with diverse roles in the regulation of animal development.
External and internal shell formation in the ramshorn snail Marisa cornuarietisare extremes in a continuum of gradual variation in development
Authors: Marschner Leonie , Staniek Julian , Schuster Silke , Triebskorn Rita , Köhler Heinz-R
Published: May 2013

Background

Toxic substances like heavy metals can inhibit and disrupt the normal embryonic development of organisms. Exposure to platinum during embryogenesis has been shown to lead to a “one fell swoop” internalization of the shell in the ramshorn snail Marisa cornuarietis, an event which has been discussed to be possibly indicative of processes in evolution which may result in dramatic changes in body plans.

Results

Whereas at usual cultivation temperature, 26°C, platinum inhibits the growth of both shell gland and mantle edge during embryogenesis leading to an internalization of the mantle and, thus, also of the shell, higher temperatures induce a re-start of the differential growth of the mantle edge and the shell gland after a period of inactivity. Here, developing embryos exhibit a broad spectrum of shell forms: in some individuals only the ventral part of the visceral sac is covered while others develop almost “normal” shells. Histological studies and scanning electron microscopy images revealed platinum to inhibit the differential growth of the shell gland and the mantle edge, and elevated temperature (28 - 30°C) to mitigate this platinum effect with varying efficiency.

Conclusion

We could show that the formation of internal, external, and intermediate shells is realized within the continuum of a developmental gradient defined by the degree of differential growth of the embryonic mantle edge and shell gland. The artificially induced internal and intermediate shells are first external and then partly internalized, similar to internal shells found in other molluscan groups.
Bilirubin attenuates the renal tubular injury by inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Oh Se Won , Lee Eun Seong , Kim Sejoong , Na Ki Young , Chae Dong Wan , Kim Suhnggwon , Chin Ho Jun
Published: May 2013

Background

Bilirubin (BIL) has been recognized as an endogenous antioxidant that shows a protective effect for cardiorenal diseases. We investigated whether administration of BIL had a protective effect on cyclosporine (CsA)-induced nephropathy (CIN), and examined the effects of BIL on the oxidative stress and apoptosis.

Methods

BIL was pretreated intraperitoneally three times for a week (60 mg/kg), and CsA was injected for 4 weeks (15 mg/kg/day, subcutaneous). Proximal tubular epithelial (HK2) cells were pretreated with 0.1mg/ml of BIL for 24 hours, and then treated with 20 μM of CsA for another 24 hours.

Results

CsA induced marked increases in urine kidney injury molecule-1 (Kim-1) and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) concentrations (P < 0.05). BIL reduced urine Kim-1 in CIN (P < 0.05), while urine NGAL exhibited a decreasing tendency. In CsA-treated rat kidneys, the protein expression of NOX4 and p22phox was reduced by BIL (P < 0.05). BIL ameliorated CsA-induced arteriolopathy, tubulointerstitial fibrosis, tubular injury, and the apoptosis examined by TUNEL assay (P < 0.01). In HK2 cells, BIL reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species in CsA-treated cells. CsA increased the protein expression of bax, cleaved caspase-9, caspase-3 and the activity of caspase-3; however, the anti-apoptotic bcl-2 protein was reduced. These changes were recovered by BIL (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The direct administration of BIL protected against CsA-induced tubular injury via inhibition of oxidative stress and apoptosis.
Establishment of monocular-limited photoreceptor degeneration models in rabbits
Authors: Isago Hitomi , Sugano Eriko , Murayama Namie , Tamai Makoto , Tomita Hiroshi
Published: May 2013

Background

Numerous rodent models of photoreceptor degeneration have been developed for the study of visual function. However, no viable model has been established in a species that is more closely related toHomo sapiens. Here, we present a rabbit model of monocular photoreceptor degeneration.

Methods

We tested 2 chemicals, verteporfin and sodium nitroprusside (SNP), for developing a 1-eye limited photoreceptor degeneration model in pigmented rabbits. After the intravenous injection of verteporfin, the retina was exposed to light from a halogen lamp for 0, 10, 30, or 60 min. Alternately, 100 μL of various concentrations of sodium nitroprusside (0.1 mM, 0.5 mM, and 1 mM) were intravitreously injected into the rabbit eye. Retinal degeneration was evaluated by fundus photography, electroretinogram (ERG), and histological examinations.

Results

Fundus photographs of animals in the verteporfin- or SNP-treated groups showed evidence of retinal degeneration. The severity of this degradation depended on the duration of light exposure and the concentration of SNP administered. The degeneration was clearly limited to the light-exposed areas in the verteporfin-treated groups. Extensive retinal atrophy was observed in the SNP-treated groups. The a- and b-wave amplitudes were dramatically decreased on the ERGs from SNP-treated groups. Histological examination revealed that either verteporfin or SNP induced severe photoreceptor degeneration. High-dose SNP treatment (1 mM) was also associated with inner retinal layer degeneration.

Conclusions

Both SNP and verteporfin clearly caused photoreceptor degeneration without any effect on the contralateral eye. These compounds therefore represent valuable tools for the empirical investigation of visual function recovery. The findings will inform guidelines for clinical applications such as retinal prostheses, cell-based therapy, and gene therapy.
Interaction between a serotonin transporter gene promoter region polymorphism and stress predicts depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents: a multi-wave longitudinal study
Authors: Ming Qing-sen , Zhang Yun , Chai Qiao-lian , Chen Hai-yan , Hou Chan-juan , Wang Meng-cheng , Wang Yu-ping , Cai Lin , Zhu Xiong-zhao , Yi Jin-yao , Yao Shu-qiao
Published: May 2013

Background

The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) gene may play an important role in the onset and development of mental disorders. Past studies have tested whether a functional polymorphism in the 5-HTT gene linked promoter region (5-HTTLPR) moderated the association between stress and depressive symptoms, but the results of these studies were inconsistent. Thus, the aim of the current study was to examine the interaction between 5-HTTLPR and stress that predict depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents.

Methods

A total of 252 healthy adolescents (131 females and 121 males, aged from 14 to 18, mean = 16.00, standard deviation = 0.60) participated in this study. During the initial assessment, all participants completed the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) and Adolescent Life Events Questionnaire (ALEQ) and were genotyped for the 5-HTTLPR polymorphism. Participants subsequently completed CES-D and ALEQ once every three months during the subsequent 24 months. A multilevel model was used to investigate the 5-HTTLPR × stress interaction in predicting depressive symptoms.

Results

The results indicated no main effect of 5-HTTLPR and a significant 5-HTTLPR × stress interaction in females only. Females with at least one 5-HTTLPR S allele exhibited more depressive symptoms under stressful situations. No significant 5-HTTLPR × stress interaction was found in males.

Conclusions

In Chinese adolescents, there are gender differences on the interaction between 5-HTTLPR and stress that predict depressive symptoms. The association between stress and depressive symptoms is moderated by 5-HTTLPR in Chinese female adolescents.
Using web-based familial risk information for diabetes prevention: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wijdenes Miranda , Henneman Lidewij , Qureshi Nadeem , Kostense Piet J , Cornel Martina C , Timmermans Danielle RM
Published: May 2013

Background

It has been suggested that family history information may be effective in motivating people to adopt health promoting behaviour. The aim was to determine if diabetic familial risk information by using a web-based tool leads to improved self-reported risk-reducing behaviour among individuals with a diabetic family history, without causing false reassurance among those without a family history.

Methods

An online sample of 1,174 healthy adults aged 35–65 years with a BMI ≥ 25 was randomized into two groups receiving an online diabetes risk assessment. Both arms received general tailored diabetes prevention information, whilst the intervention arm also received familial risk information after completing a detailed family history questionnaire. Separate analysis was performed for four groups (family history group: 286 control versus 288 intervention group; no family history: 269 control versus 266 intervention group). Primary outcomes were self-reported behavioural outcomes: fat intake, physical activity, and attitudes towards diabetes testing. Secondary outcomes were illness and risk perceptions.

Results

For individuals at familial risk there was no overall intervention effect on risk-reducing behaviour after three months, except for a decrease in self-reported saturated fat intake among low-educated individuals (Beta (b) -1.01, 95% CI −2.01 to 0.00). Familial risk information resulted in a decrease of diabetes risk worries (b −0.21, -0.40 to −0.03). For individuals without family history no effect was found on risk-reducing behaviour and perceived risk. A detailed family history assessment resulted in a greater percentage of individuals reporting a familial risk for diabetes compared to a simple enquiry.

Conclusions

Web-based familial risk information reduced worry related to diabetes risk and decreased saturated fat intake of those at greatest need of preventative care. However, the intervention was not effective for the total study population on improving risk-reducing behaviour. The emphasis on familial risk does not seem to result in false reassurance among individuals without family history. Additionally, a detailed family history questionnaire identifies more individuals at familial risk than a simple enquiry.

Trial registration

NTR1938
Effect of consumption of micronutrient enriched wheat steamed bread on postprandial plasma glucose in healthy and type 2 diabetic subjects
Authors: Su-Que Lan , Ya-Ning Meng , Xing-Pu Li , Ye-Lun Zhang , Guang-Yao Song , Hui-Juan Ma
Published: May 2013

Background

Steamed wheat bread have previously been shown to induce comparatively high postprandial plasma glucose responses, on the contrary, buckwheat products induced lower postprandial plasma glucose. The present study was to assess the effects of micronutrient enriched bread wheat variety Jizi439 and buckwheat on postprandial plasma glucose in healthy and diabetic subjects comparing with buckwheat and other bread wheat varieties.

Methods

Two experiments were conducted to study the effects of bread wheat variety Jizi439 on the postprandial plasma glucose levels of the randomly selected subjects. The first experiment involved three types of steamed bread with equivalent of 50 g available carbohydrate fed to 10 normal weight young healthy subjects. Two types of steamed bread were made from two purple-grain bread wheat varieties, Jizi439 and Chu20, respectively, and the third type was made from the mixture of different white grain wheat varieties. Plasma glucose levels of each subject were measured at 15, 30, 45, 60, 120 min after eating. Glucose was used as a reference, the total area under curve (AUC) and glycemic index (GI) was calculated for test meal. The second experiment was performed among ten type 2 diabetics who were served equivalent of 50 g available carbohydrate of steamed bread made from Jizi 439, the mixture of white grain bread wheat and buckwheat, respectively. The plasma glucose increment was determined two hours thereafter.

Results

In the first experiment, consumption of the steamed bread made from Jizi439 resulted in the least increase in plasma glucose and the GI was significantly lower than that of Chu20 and the mixture. In the second experiment, the average of postprandial 2 h plasma glucose increment of Jizi439 was 2.46 mmol/L which was significantly lower than that of the mixture of white wheat but was not significantly different from buckwheat.

Conclusions

The results indicated that consumption of Jizi439 steamed bread resulted in significantly lower plasma glucose in both healthy and diabetic subjects, compared with other types of test foods, except buckwheat bread. The steam bread made from Jizi439 would be an ideal food for preventing and treatment of diabetes.
The novel BH3 α-helix mimetic JY-1-106 induces apoptosis in a subset of cancer cells (lung cancer, colon cancer and mesothelioma) by disrupting Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 protein–protein interactions with Bak
Authors: Cao Xiaobo , Yap Jeremy L , Newell-Rogers M Karen , Peddaboina Chander , Jiang Weihua , Papaconstantinou Harry T , Jupitor Dan , Rai Arun , Jung Kwan-Young , Tubin Richard P , Yu Wenbo , Vanommeslaeghe Kenno , Wilder Paul T , MacKerell Alexander D , Fletcher Steven , Smythe Roy W
Published: May 2013

Background

It has been shown in many solid tumors that the overexpression of the pro-survival Bcl-2 family members Bcl-2/Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 confers resistance to a variety of chemotherapeutic agents. We designed the BH3 α-helix mimetic JY-1-106 to engage the hydrophobic BH3-binding grooves on the surfaces of both Bcl-xL and Mcl-1.

Methods

JY-1-106–protein complexes were studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and the SILCS methodology. We have evaluated the in vitro effects of JY-1-106 by using a fluorescence polarization (FP) assay, an XTT assay, apoptosis assays, and immunoprecipitation and western-blot assays. A preclinical human cancer xenograft model was used to test the efficacy of JY-1-106 in vivo.

Results

MD and SILCS simulations of the JY-1-106–protein complexes indicated the importance of the aliphatic side chains of JY-1-106 to binding and successfully predicted the improved affinity of the ligand for Bcl-xL over Mcl-1. Ligand binding affinities were measured via an FP assay using a fluorescently labeled Bak-BH3 peptidein vitro. Apoptosis induction via JY-1-106 was evidenced by TUNEL assay and PARP cleavage as well as by Bax–Bax dimerization. Release of multi-domain Bak from its inhibitory binding to Bcl-2/Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 using JY-1-106 was detected via immunoprecipitation (IP) western blotting.

At the cellular level, we compared the growth proliferation IC50s of JY-1-106 and ABT-737 in multiple cancer cell lines with various Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 expression levels. JY-1-106 effectively induced cell death regardless of the Mcl-1 expression level in ABT-737 resistant solid tumor cells, whilst toxicity toward normal human endothelial cells was limited. Furthermore, synergistic effects were observed in A549 cells using a combination of JY-1-106 and multiple chemotherapeutic agents. We also observed that JY-1-106 was a very effective agent in inducing apoptosis in metabolically stressed tumors. Finally, JY-1-106 was evaluated in a tumor-bearing nude mouse model, and was found to effectively repress tumor growth. Strong TUNEL signals in the tumor cells demonstrated the effectiveness of JY-1-106 in this animal model. No significant side effects were observed in mouse organs after multiple injections.

Conclusions

Taken together, these observations demonstrate that JY-1-106 is an effective pan-Bcl-2 inhibitor with very promising clinical potential.
Pathophysiological implication of reversed CT halo sign in invasive pulmonary mucormycosis: a rare case report
Authors: Okubo Yoichiro , Ishiwatari Takao , Izumi Haruka , Sato Fumitomo , Aki Kyoko , Sasai Daisuke , Ando Tsunehiro , Shinozaki Minoru , Natori Kazuhiko , Tochigi Naobumi , Wakayama Megumi , Hata Yoshinobu , Nakayama Haruo , Nemoto Tetsuo , Shibuya Kazutoshi
Published: May 2013

Background

It has been accepted that reversed halo sign (RHS) appeared on a computed tomography (CT) image in immunocompromised patients indicates an invasive fungal infection, but its pathophysiology remains obscure as to what this image implies. Therefore, the present report describes detailed radiological and histopathological findings of a case of invasive pulmonary mucormycosis (IPM) presenting RHS with comparison to those from a lesion of discrete nodule caused by invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA), and discusses the pathophysiological implications of this characteristic image.

Case presentation

RHS had been clinically noted at the time of recovering of bone marrow function of a 64-year-old Japanese man who had chemotherapy for his acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Histological examination of the surgically removed lung revealed a lesion of IPM. This was composed of coagulation necrosis of septa at the center of lesion with preservation of air content which was encompassed outer rim comprising triplet structure; liquefaction, consolidation, and organization from the inner to the outer layer. In addition, Micro-CT examination confirmed reticular structure and monotonous high density at the central coagulation necrosis preserving air content and surrounding consolidation, and organization lesion of the IPM lesion.

Conclusion

Our investigations suggest that RHS might be understood as a kind of immune reconstitution syndrome and be the initial and prior status of air crescent sign.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here: http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/3480054198968132
Immunohistochemical detection of S100A1 in the postmortem diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Bi Haitao , Yang Ying , Huang Jianye , Li Yingmin , Ma Chunling , Cong Bin
Published: May 2013

Background

Sudden cardiac death resulting from acute myocardial infarction (AMI) constitutes a significant percentage of the caseload for forensic and clinical pathologists. When sudden death occurs at an early stage (<6 h), pathologists experience difficulty in the postmortem diagnosis of AMI. Because of the specific tissue distribution of S100A1 and its relationship with acute ischemic heart disease, this study aimed to evaluate the performance of S100A1 in the postmortem diagnosis of AMI.

Methods

We constructed a rat model of AMI through permanent ligation of the left anterior descending coronary artery (LAD) to investigate the depletion of S100A1 from ischemic cardiomyocytes by immunohistochemistry and measuring S100A1 plasma concentrations by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay at varying post-infarction intervals. In addition, immunohistochemical staining of S100A1 for definite infarction, suspected early infarction, and in normal human hearts, was also performed to test its practical feasibility for postmortem diagnosis of AMI at an early stage.

Results

As early as 15 min after ligation of the LAD, depletion of S100A1 was observed in ischemic cardiomyocytes, and S100A1 plasma concentration was also significantly higher than that of the sham-operated group (P < 0.001). With continuation of the occlusion time, the depleted areas of S100A1 further expanded and S100A1 plasma concentrations further increased. For autopsy material, all human cases of definite myocardial infarction and suspected early infarction showed well-defined areas without S100A1 staining. None of the normal human cases showed diffuse depletion of S100A1.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that immunohistochemical detection of S100A1 is useful for the postmortem diagnosis of AMI at an early stage.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here:

http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/4366650979519818