bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular dynamics in calf‐thymus DNA, at neutral and low pH, in the presence of Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions: A Raman microspectroscopic study
Authors: Muntean Cristina M. , Bratu Ioan
Published: March 2012

In this paper the Raman total half bandwidths of calf‐thymus DNA vibrations have been measured as a function of pH, monovalent and divalent cations′ type and concentration. The dependence of different band parameters on DNA molecular subgroup structure, on pH and on Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions concentrations, respectively, are reported. It is shown that changes in (sub)picosecond dynamics of molecular subgroups in calf‐thymus DNA can be monitored with confocal Raman microspectroscopy.

The half bandwidths and the global relaxation times for the vibrations at 728 cm−1 (dA), 785 cm−1 (dC), 1094 cm−1 (PO2−), 1377 cm−1 (dA, dG, dT, dC), 1488 cm−1 (dG, dA) and 1580 cm−1 (dG, dA) of calf‐thymus DNA are presented. The full‐widths at half‐height (FWHH) of the bands in calf‐thymus DNA are typically in the wavenumber range from 7.4 to 31 cm−1. The bandwidths in the Raman spectra are sensitive to a dynamics active on a time scale from 0.34 to 1.44 ps.

Low pH‐induced melting of double helical structure in calf‐thymus DNA results for some bands in shorter global relaxation times, as a consequence of the increased interaction of the base moieties with the solvent molecules.

The molecular dynamics characterizing the 785, 1094, 1377 and 1580 cm−1 vibrations, is faster in the case of high divalent cations DNA sample (pH 7), as compared to the respective low divalent cations DNA sample (pH 7), for both Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions. The vibrational energy transfer process of the guanine band at 1488 cm−1 is slower for the high salt DNA sample, pH 7 as compared to the corresponding low salt DNA sample, pH 7, for both Ca2+ and Mg2+. Molecular dynamics characterizing the vibration at 1488 cm−1 is faster for DNA sample at high Na+ ions (pH 7), as compared to the DNA sample at low Na+ ions (pH 7).

As far as the CaDNA and MgDNA complexes are concerned (pH 7), the global relaxation times of some base vibrations decrease for the case of magnesium ions, as compared to the case of the same concentration of calcium ions. The different ionic radius of the two types of metal cations (0.72 Å for Mg and 0.99 Å for Ca) were considered in explaining these results.

Molecular relaxation processes of DNA subgroups, upon lowering the pH, in the presence of Na+, Ca2+ and Mg2+ ions are presented. Particularly, at low Ca2+ concentration, upon lowering the pH, the molecular dynamics of DNA subgroups corresponding to vibrations at 728, 1376, 1488 and 1580 cm−1 is much faster, probably due to the denaturation process of the double helical DNA.
Mechanisms of Odor Coding in Coniferous Bark Beetles: From Neuron to Behavior and Application
Authors: Andersson Martin N.
Published: March 2012

Coniferous bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) locate their hosts by means of olfactory signals, such as pheromone, host, and nonhost compounds. Behavioral responses to these volatiles are well documented. However, apart from the olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) detecting pheromones, information on the peripheral olfactory physiology has for a long time been limited. Recently, however, comprehensive studies on the ORNs of the spruce bark beetle,Ips typographus, were conducted. Several new classes of ORNs were described and odor encoding mechanisms were investigated. In particular, links between behavioral responses and ORN responses were established, allowing for a more profound understanding of bark beetle olfaction. This paper reviews the physiology of bark beetle ORNs. Special focus is onI. typographus, for which the available physiological data can be put into a behavioral context. In addition, some recent field studies and possible applications, related to the physiological studies, are summarized and discussed.
[Retracted] A Numerical Model for Torsion Analysis of Composite Ship Hulls
Authors: Chirica Ionel , Beznea Elena-Felicia
Published: March 2012

A new methodology based on a macroelement model proposed for torsional behaviour of the ship hull made of composite material is proposed in this paper. A computer program has been developed for the elastic analysis of linear torsion. The results are compared with the FEM‐based licensed soft COSMOS/M results and measurements on the scale simplified model of a container ship, made of composite materials.
Immunotherapy of Genitourinary Malignancies
Authors: Inamoto Teruo , Azuma Haruhito
Published: March 2012

Most cancer patients are treated with some combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Despite recent advances in local therapy with curative intent, chemotherapeutic treatments for metastatic disease often remain unsatisfying due to severe side effects and incomplete long-term remission. Therefore, the evaluation of novel therapeutic options is of great interest. Conventional, along with newer treatment strategies target the immune system that suppresses genitourinary (GU) malignancies. Metastatic renal cell carcinoma and non-muscle-invasive bladder caner represent the most immune-responsive types of all human cancer. This review examines the rationale and emerging evidence supporting the anticancer activity of immunotherapy, against GU malignancies.
Distribution of Cytoskeletal Components in Endothelial Cells in the Guinea Pig Renal Artery
Authors: Katoh Kazuo , Noda Yasuko
Published: March 2012

The cytoskeletal components of endothelial cells in the renal artery were examined by analysis of en face preparations under confocal laser scanning microscopy. Renal arterial endothelial cells were shown to be elongated along the direction of blood flow, while stress fibers ran perpendicular to the flow in the basal portion. Focal adhesions were observed along the stress fibers in dot-like configurations. On the other hand, stress fibers in the apical portion of cells ran along the direction of flow. The localizations of stress fibers and focal adhesions in endothelial cells in the renal artery differed from those of unperturbed aortic and venous endothelial cells. Tyrosine-phosphorylated proteins were mainly detected at the sites of cell-to-cell apposition, but not in focal adhesions. Pulsatile pressure and fluid shear stress applied over endothelial cells in the renal artery induce stress fiber organization and localization of focal adhesions. These observations suggest that the morphological alignment of endothelial cells along the direction of blood flow and the organization of cytoskeletal components are independently regulated.
Cleptobiosis in Social Insects
Authors: Breed Michael D. , Cook Chelsea , Krasnec Michelle O.
Published: March 2012

In this review of cleptobiosis, we not only focus on social insects, but also consider broader issues and concepts relating to the theft of food among animals. Cleptobiosis occurs when members of a species steal food, or sometimes nesting materials or other items of value, either from members of the same or a different species. This simple definition is not universally used, and there is some terminological confusion among cleptobiosis, cleptoparasitism, brood parasitism, and inquilinism. We first discuss the definitions of these terms and the confusion that arises from varying usage of the words. We consider that cleptobiosis usually is derived evolutionarily from established foraging behaviors. Cleptobionts can succeed by deception or by force, and we review the literature on cleptobiosis by deception or force in social insects. We focus on the best known examples of cleptobiosis, the ectatommine antEctatomma ruidum, the harvester antMessor capitatus, and the stingless beeLestrimellita limão.Cleptobiosis is facilitated either by deception or physical force, and we discuss both mechanisms. Part of this discussion is an analysis of the ecological implications (competition by interference) and the evolutionary effects of cleptobiosis. We conclude with a comment on how cleptobiosis can increase the risk of disease or parasite spread among colonies of social insects.
Caveolin 3, Flotillin 1 and Influenza Virus Hemagglutinin Reside in Distinct Domains on the Sarcolemma of Skeletal Myofibers
Authors: Kaakinen Mika , Kaisto Tuula , Rahkila Paavo , Metsikkö Kalervo
Published: March 2012

We examined the distribution of selected raft proteins on the sarcolemma of skeletal myofibers and the role of cholesterol environment in the distribution. Immunofluorescence staining showed that flotillin-1 and influenza hemagglutinin exhibited rafts that located in the domains deficient of the dystrophin glycoprotein complex, but the distribution patterns of the two proteins were different. Cholesterol depletion from the sarcolemma by means of methyl-β-cyclodextrin resulted in distorted caveolar morphology and redistribution of the caveolin 3 protein. Concomitantly, the water permeability of the sarcolemma increased significantly. However, cholesterol depletion did not reshuffle flotillin 1 or hemagglutinin. Furthermore, a hemagglutinin variant that lacked a raft-targeting signals exhibited a similar distribution pattern as the native raft protein. These findings indicate that each raft protein exhibits a strictly defined distribution in the sarcolemma. Only the distribution of caveolin 3 that binds cholesterol was exclusively dependent on cholesterol environment.
Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma Signaling Pathway: An Update on Molecular Biomarkers
Authors: Tulalamba Warut , Janvilisri Tavan
Published: March 2012

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an uncommon cancer, which has a distinctive ethnic and geographic distribution. Etiology of NPC is considered to be related with a complex interaction of environmental and genetic factors as well as Epstein-Barr virus infection. Since NPC is located in the silent painless area, the disease is usually therefore diagnosed at the advanced stages; hence early detection of NPC is difficult. Furthermore, understanding in molecular pathogenesis is still lacking, pondering the identification of effective prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers. Dysregulation of signaling molecules in intracellular signal transduction, which regulate cell proliferation, apoptosis, and adhesion, underlines the basis of NPC pathogenesis. In this paper, the molecular signaling pathways in the NPC are discussed for the holistic view of NPC development and progression. The important insights toward NPC pathogenesis may offer strategies for identification of novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prognosis.
Detectability of Colon Polyp Using Computed Virtual Chromoendoscopy with Flexible Spectral Imaging Color Enhancement
Authors: Kiriyama Shinsuke , Matsuda Takahisa , Nakajima Takeshi , Sakamoto Taku , Saito Yutaka , Kuwano Hiroyuki
Published: March 2012

The aim of this pilot study was to assess the feasibility of using computed virtual chromoendoscopy with the flexible spectral imaging color enhancement (FICE) for colon neoplasia screening. A modified back-to-back colonoscopy using FICE and white light in the right-sided colon was conducted prospectively for the consecutive patients attending for the postoperative (sigmoidectomy or anterior resection) follow-up colonoscopy. Histopathology of detected lesions was confirmed by evaluation of endoscopic resection or biopsy specimens. One-hundred and two patients were enrolled, and 100 patients (61 males and mean age 63 years) were finally analyzed. The total number of polyps detected by FICE and white light colonoscopy was 65 and 45, respectively. The miss rate for all polyps with FICE (24%) was significantly less than that with white light (46%) (P=0.03). Colonoscopy using FICE could beneficially enhance the detection of neoplastic lesions in the right-sided colon compared to white light colonoscopy.
Review of the Genus Andropogon (Poaceae: Andropogoneae) in America Based on Cytogenetic Studies
Authors: Nagahama Nicolás , Norrmann Guillermo A.
Published: March 2012

Andropogon is a pantropical grass genus comprising 100–120 species and found mainly in the grasslands of Africa and the Americas. In the new world the genus is represented by approximately sixty (diploids or hexaploids) species grouped in three sections. The hexaploid condition occurs only in the Americas and the full process of this origin is still uncertain, although cytogenetic analysis coupled with taxonomic evidence have provided strong support for new hypothesis. Stebbins proposed the first hypothesis suggesting that the origin of polyploidy in species of Andropogon in North America resulted from duplication of the genome of some diploid species, and then by intergeneric crosses with species of a related genus. Since then, numerous studies were performed to clarify the evolutionary history of the genus in America. In this paper, we present a review of cytogenetic studies in the American Andropogon species during the last four decades.
Determination of Susceptibility to Intergranular Corrosion of UNS 31803 Type Duplex Stainless Steel by Electrochemical Reactivation Method
Authors: Arıkan Mehmet Emin , Arıkan Rafet , Doruk Mustafa
Published: March 2012

Specimens taken from a hot-rolled cylindrical duplex stainless steel (DSS) bar with 22% Cr grade were solution annealed at1050∘C and then aged at725∘C from 100 to 31622 min for sensitization treatment. Double loop electrochemical potentiodynamic reactivation and standard weight loss immersion acid tests were conducted. The solution-annealed samples were found unsensitized. Those samples aged for 100 and 316 min were less sensitized whereas samples aged for 1000 min and especially those aged for 3162, 10000, and 31622 min were heavily sensitized. The degree of sensitization (DOS) can be attributed to higher contribution of chromium- and molybdenum-depleted areas resulting from intermetallic phases.
Effect of Variable Viscosity on Vortex Instability of Non‐Darcy Mixed Convection Boundary Layer Flow Adjacent to a Nonisothermal Horizontal Surface in a Porous Medium
Authors: Elaiw A. M. , Bakr A. A. , Alghamdi M. A. , Ibrahim F. S.
Published: March 2012

We study the effect of variable viscosity on the flow and vortex instability for non‐Darcy mixed convection boundary layer flow on a nonisothermal horizontal plat surface in a saturated porous medium. The variation of viscosity is expressed as an exponential function of temperature. The analysis of the disturbance flow is based on linear stability theory. The base flow equations and the resulting eigenvalue problem are solved using finite difference schemes. It is found that the variable viscosity effect enhances the heat transfer rate and destabilizes the flow for liquid heating, while the opposite trend is true for gas heating.
Optical Characterization of Chemically Etched Nanoporous Silicon Embedded in Sol‐Gel Matrix
Authors: Al Dwayyan A. S. , Khan M. Naziruddin , Al Salhi M. S.
Published: March 2012

Nanoporous (NPs) silicon fabricated by chemical etching process in HF acid was first separated in tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent and then incorporated into SiO2 matrix. The matrix was prepared by sol gel process in which dimethylformamide (DMF) was used as drying chemical control additive (DCCA) to form crack‐free dried sample. We examined the optical properties of NPs in three medium which are solvent, sol, and dried sol gel. Our observations reveal that absorption spectra of NPs silicon in THF are modified with respect to the spectra in sol gel. Significant stability in PL of NPs silicon in the sol gel is observed. Influence of matrix environment on peaks of NPs is also discussed. Surface morphology is characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) which shows that the NPs silicon in THF is similar to the sol gel but becomes aggregation particle to particle. Presence of Si nanoparticles in THF and sol is confirmed by Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The NPs silicons have mono dispersive and high crystalline nature with spherical shape of around 5 nm in sizes.
On Certain Classes of Meromorphic Functions Associated with Conic Domains
Authors: Noor Khalida Inayat , Amber Fiaz
Published: March 2012

Making use of the concept of k‐uniformly bounded boundary rotation and Ruscheweyh differential operator, we introduce some new classes of meromorphic functions in the punctured unit disc. Convolution technique and principle of subordination are used to investigate these classes. Inclusion results, generalized Bernardi integral operator, and rate of growth of coefficients are studied. Some interesting consequences are also derived from the main results.
Grid-Based Predictive Geographical Routing for Inter-Vehicle Communication in Urban Areas
Authors: Cha Si-Ho , Lee Keun-Wang , Cho Hyun-Seob
Published: March 2012

Vehicular ad-hoc networks (VANETs) are highly mobile wireless ad hoc networks for vehicular safety and other commercial applications, whereby vehicles move non-randomly along roads while exchanging information with other vehicles and roadside infrastructures. Inter-vehicle communication (IVC) is achieved wirelessly using multihop communication, without access to fixed infrastructure. Rapid movement and frequent topology changes cause repeated link breakages, increasing the packet loss rate. Geographical routing protocols are suitable for VANETs. However, they select the node nearest to the destination node as a relay node within the transmission range, increasing the possibility of a local maximum and link loss because of high mobility and urban road characteristics. We propose a grid-based predictive geographical routing (GPGR) protocol, which overcomes these problems. GPGR uses map data to generate a road grid and to predict the moving position during the relay node selection process. GPGR divides roads into two-dimensional road grids and considers every possible node movement. By restricting the position prediction in the road grid sequence, GPGR can predict the next position of nodes and select the optimal relay node. Simulation results using ns-2 demonstrated performance improvements in terms of local maximum probability, packet delivery rate, and link breakage rate.
Emergence of Exhausted B Cells in Asymptomatic HIV-1-Infected Patients Naïve for HAART is Related to Reduced Immune Surveillance
Authors: Fogli Manuela , Torti Carlo , Malacarne Fabio , Fiorentini Simona , Albani Melania , Izzo Ilaria , Giagulli Cinzia , Maggi Fabrizio , Carosi Giampiero , Caruso Arnaldo
Published: March 2012

Alterations of B cell subpopulations have been described up to date as characterizing advanced stage of HIV-1 infection. However, whether such defects are relevant in subjects with a preserved number of CD4+T cells (>350 cells/μL) is unclear. In a cross-sectional study, we investigated if signs of B cells exhaustion and impaired viral immune surveillance are present in a cohort of 43 asymptomatic HIV-1-infected patients with preserved CD4+T cell counts (>350 cells/μL) and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) untreated. A dramatic expansion of exhausted tissue-like memory B cells (CD10-CD21lowCD27-) was observed. B cells alteration was related to an increase in Torque teno virus (TTV) load, used as surrogate marker of immune function. Successfully HAART-treated patients showed normalization of B cell subpopulations frequency and TTV load. These results provide new insights on B cell in HIV-1 infection and show that development of B cell abnormalities precedes CD4+T cell decline.
MicroRNAs in Neurotoxicity
Authors: Kaur Prameet , Armugam Arunmozhiarasi , Jeyaseelan Kandiah
Published: March 2012

MicroRNAs are gaining importance as regulators of gene expression with the capability to fine-tune and modulate cellular events. The complex network with their selective targets (mRNAs/genes) pave way for regulation of many physiological processes. Dysregulation of normal neuronal activities could result in accumulation of substances that are detrimental to neuronal functions and subsequently result in neurotoxicity. Neurotoxicity-mediated pathophysiological conditions could then manifest as diseases or disabilities like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s which have debilitating implications. Such toxicity can be a result of individuals predisposed due to genetic inheritance or from other sources such as brain tumours. Neurotoxicity can also be brought about by external agents like drugs and alcohol as well as brain injury with miRNAs playing a pivotal role in diseases. It is therefore vital to understand the expression of these microRNAs and their impact on neuronal activities. In this paper, we discuss some of the neuronal pathophysiological conditions that could be caused by dysregulated microRNAs.
IGE Model: An Extension of the Ideal Gas Model to Include Chemical Composition as Part of the Equilibrium State
Authors: Paolini Christopher P. , Bhattacharjee Subrata
Published: March 2012

The ideal gas (IG) model is probably the most well-known gas models in engineering thermodynamics. In this paper, we extend the IG model into an ideal gas equilibrium (IGE model) mixture model by incorporating chemical equilibrium calculations as part of the state evaluation. Through a simple graphical interface, users can set the atomic composition of a gas mixture. We have integrated this model into a thermodynamic web portal TEST (http://thermofluids.sdsu.edu/) that contains Java applets for various models for properties of pure substances. In the state panel of the IGE model, the known thermodynamic properties are entered. For a given pressure and temperature, the mixture's Gibbs function is minimized subject to atomic constraints and the equilibrium composition along with thermodynamic properties of the mixture are calculated and displayed. What is unique about this approach is that equilibrium computations are performed in the background, without requiring any major change in the familiar user interface used in other state daemons. Properties calculated by this equilibrium state daemon are compared with results from other established applications such as NASA CEA and STANJAN. Also, two different algorithms, an iterative approach and a direct approach based on minimizing different thermodynamic functions in different situation, are compared.
Generalized Chessboard Structures Whose Effective Conductivities Are Integer Valued
Authors: Lukkassen Dag , Meidell Annette
Published: March 2012

We consider generalized chessboard structures where the local conductivity takes two values a and b. All integer combinations of a and b which make the components of effective conductivity matrix integer valued are found. Moreover, we discuss the problem of estimating the effective conductivity matrix by using the finite‐element method.
A Survey of Communications and Networking Technologies for Energy Management in Buildings and Home Automation
Authors: Kailas Aravind , Cecchi Valentina , Mukherjee Arindam
Published: March 2012

With the exploding power consumption in private households and increasing environmental and regulatory restraints, the need to improve the overall efficiency of electrical networks has never been greater. That being said, the most efficient way to minimize the power consumption is by voluntary mitigation of home electric energy consumption, based on energy-awareness and automatic or manual reduction of standby power of idling home appliances. Deploying bi-directional smart meters and home energy management (HEM) agents that provision real-time usage monitoring and remote control, will enable HEM in “smart households.” Furthermore, the traditionally inelastic demand curve has began to change, and these emerging HEM technologies enable consumers (industrial to residential) to respond to the energy market behavior to reduce their consumption at peak prices, to supply reserves on a as-needed basis, and to reduce demand on the electric grid. Because the development of smart grid-related activities has resulted in an increased interest in demand response (DR) and demand side management (DSM) programs, this paper presents some popular DR and DSM initiatives that include planning, implementation and evaluation techniques for reducing energy consumption and peak electricity demand. The paper then focuses on reviewing and distinguishing the various state-of-the-art HEM control and networking technologies, and outlines directions for promoting the shift towards a society with low energy demand and low greenhouse gas emissions. The paper also surveys the existing software and hardware tools, platforms, and test beds for evaluating the performance of the information and communications technologies that are at the core of future smart grids. It is envisioned that this paper will inspire future research and design efforts in developing standardized and user-friendly smart energy monitoring systems that are suitable for wide scale deployment in homes.
Obesity and the Risk for Premenopausal and Postmenopausal Breast Cancer
Authors: Anderson Garnet L. , Neuhouser Marian L.
Published: March 2012

Obesity has been consistently associated with an increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer in population-based studies. Conversely, obesity in such studies has been inversely associated with premenopausal breast cancer risk. In a report of data from two large chemoprevention trials, both of which enrolled women at a high risk of breast cancer, obesity was associated with only a modest, nonsignificantly increased risk of postmenopausal breast cancer and a surprising statistically significant 70% increased risk of premenopausal breast cancer (vs. normal weight). The discrepancies between these results and those from previous observational studies may be due to differences in study design and exposure ascertainment or due to inherent biologic differences whereby the obesity–breast cancer association differs for high-risk women in the clinical setting compared with general population, average-risk women in the observational setting. Cancer Prev Res; 5(4); 515–21. ©2012 AACR.
The Effects of Psychotherapy on Psychological Well-Being and Diurnal Cortisol Patterns in Breast Cancer Survivors
Authors: Hsiao Fei-Hsiu , Jow Guey-Mei , Kuo Wen-Hung , Chang King-Jen , Liu Yu-Fen , Ho Rainbow T.H. , Ng Siu-Man , Chan Cecilia L.W. , Lai Yu-Ming , Chen Yu-Ting
Published: March 2012

Background: Neuroendocrine dysregulation influenced by psychosocial stress is related to breast cancer recurrence. Very few studies examine the impacts of psychotherapy on diurnal cortisol patterns among breast cancer survivors. Methods: Forty-eight breast cancer patients who completed active cancer treatment were randomly assigned to receive either 8 weekly body-mind-spirit (BMS) group therapy sessions or 1 educational (EDU) session. Self-report measures included the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Meaning in Life questionnaire (MLQ) including two subscales: MLQ-Presence and MLQ-Search. Salivary cortisol levels were collected by the subjects in their homes at the time of awakening, 30 and 45 min after awakening, and at 12.00, 17.00, and 21.00 h. Measurement time points include baseline, the 2nd month (completion of BMS therapy), the 5th month, and the 8th month. Results: There were no significant differences in BDI-II scores (p>0.05) and MLQ-Presence scores (p >0.05) between BMS and EDU groups at baseline or across the three follow-ups. Nevertheless, greater MLQ-Search scores were found in the BMS group compared to the EDU group during the 5th month of follow-up (p <0.01). The higher level of cortisol at 21.00 h (p < 0.01) and a flatter diurnal cortisol pattern were more likely to occur in EDU than in BMS participants (p < 0.05) at the 8th month of follow-up. Conclusion: BMS group therapy likely contributed to enhancing an active search for meaning in life toward more opportunities for personal growth and to maintaining stable cortisol responses to everyday life stress for breast cancer survivors.
A Blind Randomized Controlled Trial of Cognitive versus Behavioral versus Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Sharpe Louise , Schrieber Leslie
Published: March 2012

Background: Despite evidence that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is effective for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), little is known about which components of therapy are most efficacious. The present study compared the efficacy of CBT with cognitive therapy (CT) and behavioral therapy (BT) for patients with RA. We hypothesized that CBT would be more efficacious on a broader range of outcomes. Methods: Participants (n = 104) with classic or definite RA were randomized to receive one of three active treatments (CBT, CT or BT) or a wait-list control (WLC). Participants were assessed at baseline, post-treatment and 6 months on a range of outcomes. Measures of disease activity, joint function, disability and psychological functioning were included. Results: The results showed that participants who received cognitive components had greater improvements in tender joint counts and C-reactive protein at post-treatment. Those receiving either BT or CT alone improved more on anxiety than CBT or WLC. At 6 months, the three active treatment groups could only be distinguished on tender joints, which favored CT and CBT. Conclusions: CBT did not demonstrate the broader benefits to patients that we expected, nor was there evidence that BT produced effects that were superior to CT alone. CT was superior to at least one of the other two active treatment components on 3 of the 7 outcome measures at post-treatment. Effect sizes for the interventions that included cognitive components were similar to those reported in the literature. These results suggest that CT is an effective treatment for RA and need not necessarily include behavioral strategies.
Diagnostic Value of Specific IgE Analysis in Latex Allergy
Authors: Ünsel Mehmet , Mete Nihal , Ardeniz Ömür , Sin Aytül , Gülbahar Okan , Kokuludağ Ali
Published: March 2012

Background: The precision of the methods used to diagnose latex allergy is of great importance due to false-positive results. Neither the skin prick test (SPT) nor the latex-specific IgE assay has 100% diagnostic accuracy. We analysed the diagnostic value of latex-specific IgE by the first-ever concomitant use of the SPT and nasal provocation test (NPT). Methods: Twenty-seven latex-sensitive patients (group 1), 46 aeroallergen-sensitive patients (group 2a) and 33 healthy subjects (group 2b) participated in the study. All groups underwent an SPT with latex and aeroallergens and an NPT with latex. Latex-specific IgE and total IgE levels were measured by the ImmunoCAP assay. Results: Latex-specific IgE was positive in 92.6, 30.4 and 9.1% of groups 1, 2a and 2b, respectively. The 11 aeroallergen-sensitive patients in group 1 and all of the patients in group 2a were predominantly sensitised to pollens (grass, weed and tree) and reacted to a lesser degree to house dust mite, moulds and animal dander. Combined pollinosis was remarkably more prevalent in patients with positive latex-specific IgE in group 2a than in those with negative latex-specific IgE (p = 0.001). The NPT was positive in 84.6% of group 1 and negative in all control subjects. The sensitivity, specificity, negative predictive value and positive predictive value of the latex-specific IgE assay were 90.9, 72.2, 96.3 and 50%, respectively. Conclusion: The high rate of false-positive results for latex-specific IgE by ImmunoCAP should be taken into account when making a diagnosis of latex allergy in patients with pollinosis, especially in those sensitised to more than one pollen species.
Effects of Different Leukocyte Subpopulations and Flow Conditions on Leukocyte Accumulation during Reperfusion
Authors: Ploppa Annette , Kampmann Miriam , Johannes Tanja , Haeberle Helene A. , Nohé Boris
Published: March 2012

Background/Aims: The study examined the interdependent effects of shear stress and different leukocyte subpopulations on endothelial cell activation and cell interactions during low flow and reperfusion. Methods: Human umbilical venous endothelial cells were perfused with either neutrophils or monocytes at different shear stress (2–0.25 dyn/cm2) and adhesion was quantified by microscopy. Effects of adherent neutrophils and monocytes on endothelial cell adhesion molecule expression were analyzed by flow cytometry after 4-hour static coincubation. After coincubation, the cocultures were reperfused with labeled neutrophils at 2 dyn/cm2 and their adhesion was quantified selectively. For the control, endothelium monocultures with and without lipopolysaccharide activation were used. Results: At 2 dyn/cm2, adhesion did not exceed baseline levels on nonactivated endothelium. Decreasing shear stress to 0.25 dyn/cm2 largely increased the adhesion of both leukocyte subpopulations, similar to the effect of lipopolysaccharide at 2 dyn/cm2. However, only adherent monocytes increased adhesion molecule expression, whereas neutrophils had no effect. As a functional consequence, adherent monocytes largely increased neutrophil adhesion during reperfusion, whereas adherent neutrophils did not. Conclusion: Compromised shear stress is an autonomous trigger of leukocyte adhesion even in the absence of additional activators. Exceeding this immediate effect, adherent monocytes induce further endothelial activation and enhance further neutrophil adhesion during reperfusion.
Depression Does Not Affect the Treatment Outcome of CBT for Panic and Agoraphobia: Results from a Multicenter Randomized Trial
Authors: Emmrich Angela , Beesdo-Baum Katja , Gloster Andrew T. , Knappe Susanne , Höfler Michael , Arolt Volker , Deckert Jürgen , Gerlach Alexander L. , Hamm Alfons , Kircher Tilo , Lang Thomas , Richter Jan , Ströhle Andreas , Zwanzger Peter , Wittchen Hans-Ulrich
Published: March 2012

Background: Controversy surrounds the questions whether co-occurring depression has negative effects on cognitivebehavioral therapy (CBT) outcomes in patients with panic disorder (PD) and agoraphobia (AG) and whether treatment for PD and AG (PD/AG) also reduces depressive symptomatology. Methods: Post-hoc analyses of randomized clinical trial data of 369 outpatients with primary PD/AG (DSM-IV-TR criteria) treated with a 12-session manualized CBT (n = 301) and a waitlist control group (n = 68). Patients with comorbid depression (DSM-IV-TR major depression, dysthymia, or both: 43.2% CBT, 42.7% controls) were compared to patients without depression regarding anxiety and depression outcomes (Clinical Global Impression Scale [CGI], Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale [HAM-A], number of panic attacks, Mobility Inventory [MI], Panic and Agoraphobia Scale, Beck Depression Inventory) at post-treatment and follow-up (categorical). Further, the role of severity of depressive symptoms on anxiety/depression outcome measures was examined (dimensional). Results: Comorbid depression did not have a significant overall effect on anxiety outcomes at post-treatment and follow-up, except for slightly diminished post-treatment effect sizes for clinician-rated CGI (p = 0.03) and HAM-A (p = 0.008) when adjusting for baseline anxiety severity. In the dimensional model, higher baseline depression scores were associated with lower effect sizes at post-treatment (except for MI), but not at follow-up (except for HAM-A). Depressive symptoms improved irrespective of the presence of depression. Conclusions: Exposure-based CBT for primary PD/AG effectively reduces anxiety and depressive symptoms, irrespective of comorbid depression or depressive symptomatology.
Pattern Recognition Receptors in Immune Disorders Affecting the Skin
Authors: de Koning Heleen D. , Simon Anna , Zeeuwen Patrick L.J.M. , Schalkwijk Joost
Published: March 2012

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) evolved to protect organisms against pathogens, but excessive signaling can induce immune responses that are harmful to the host. Putative PRR dysfunction is associated with numerous immune disorders that affect the skin, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome, and primary inflammatory skin diseases including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. As yet, the evidence is often confined to genetic association studies without additional proof of a causal relationship. However, insight into the role of PRRs in the pathophysiology of some disorders has already resulted in new therapeutic approaches based on immunomodulation of PRRs.
Prevalence and Profile of Mild Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Monastero Roberto , Di Fiore Paola , Ventimiglia Giusi Daniela , Ventimiglia Caterina Claudia , Battaglini Iacopo , Camarda Rosolino , Camarda Cecilia
Published: March 2012

Background/Aims: The frequency of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in Parkinson’s disease (PD) ranges from 19 to 40%, and this is probably due to methodological differences between the studies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and profile of MCI in a large sample of nondemented PD subjects and neurologically healthy subjects (NHS). Methods: A total of 872 subjects (582 controls and 290 PD) were included. The association between MCI and PD was tested, using logistic regression models; odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. Results: Fifty-three percent of PD subjects and 45% NHS met the criteria for MCI (p = 0.001). The PD subjects showed a higher frequency of nonamnestic MCI (naMCI), compared to NHS (23.8 vs. 14.4%, p ≤ 0.0001). In comparison to NHS, PD was associated with a univariate OR of 1.9 (95% CI = 1.3–2.8) for naMCI, and this association was marginally significant after multiple comparisons (multivariate OR = 1.5, 95% CI = 0.96–2.3, p = 0.077). Conclusion: The association between PD and the impairment of nonmemory domains is probably due to frontal-subcortical involvement, which characterizes the disease.
Retromers in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Siegenthaler Barbara M. , Rajendran Lawrence
Published: March 2012

Amyloid-β peptide (Aβ), the key pathogenic agent in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), is released after sequential proteolytic cleavage of the transmembrane amyloid precursor protein (APP). β-Site APP-cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE1) cleaves APP in early endosomes, and the cause of increased BACE cleavage of APP in AD is not fully resolved yet. It has been proposed that perturbed intracellular trafficking of APP, which leads to prolonged residence time in early endosomes, influences Aβ production and hence the risk for AD. Retromers are a family of proteins that mediate the retrieval of transmembrane proteins from the endosomes to the trans-Golgi network. Misregulation of retromers or retromer-associated proteins influences endosomal localization of APP/BACE1. Here we review the role of retromers in the amyloidogenic processing of APP and their pathogenic role in AD.
Brain Plasticity, Sleep and Aging
Authors: Cirelli Chiara
Published: March 2012

The link between sleep and aging is a hot topic of research. On the one hand, much attention has been paid to epidemiological studies showing that both short sleep and long sleep in humans are associated with reduced longevity. I will briefly review this literature and discuss recent experiments in the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster that may contribute to understanding this complicated association. On the other hand, other experiments have focused on age-related sleep changes. Sleep quantity and quality tend to decrease with age, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In young subjects, converging evidence from human and animal studies shows that the need for sleep is strongly modulated by the amount of brain plasticity during prior wake. In short, the more we learn and adapt our brain to an ever-changing environment, the more we need to sleep. If so, poor sleep in the elderly could be caused by a chronic decrease in sleep need due to reduced opportunity to learn and be exposed to novel experiences, rather than, or in addition to, an intrinsic problem in the neural circuits responsible for sleep regulation. This distinction has obvious practical implications. However, very little research has been done on this topic.
Untreated Cavitated Dentine Lesions: Impact on Children’s Quality of Life
Authors: Leal S.C. , Bronkhorst E.M. , Fan M. , Frencken J.E.
Published: March 2012

The aim of the present investigation was to assess the impact of dental caries prevalence and the consequences of untreated cavitated dentine lesions on quality of life of 6- and 7-year-old Brazilian children. A total of 826 schoolchildren were assessed using ICDAS and pufa (to score consequences of dental caries on soft tissues) indices. History of extraction and toothache was recorded. Oral health-related quality of life was assessed using the Brazilian version of the Early Childhood Oral Health Impact Scale (B-ECOHIS). A multiple logistic regression model was used to analyze the relationship between the prevalence of dentine carious lesions, pufa, history of extraction and toothache with the B-ECOHIS scores. A total of 587 questionnaires were analyzed. The prevalence of cavitated dentine lesions and pufa was 74.8 and 26.2%, respectively. Some 21.8% of children reported toothache and 9.2% had had at least one tooth extraction. The chance (OR) for children with cavitated dentine lesions, pufa ≥1, history of extraction and toothache of having higher B-ECOHIS scores than those not affected was 1.90 (95% CI: 1.18–3.06), 6.26 (95% CI: 3.63–10.83), 6.87 (95% CI: 2.75–17.16) and 3.68 (95% CI: 2.12–6.39), respectively. Children’s quality of life was negatively influenced by untreated cavitated dentine lesions and their consequences.
Psychoacoustic Performance and Music and Speech Perception in Prelingually Deafened Children with Cochlear Implants
Authors: Jung Kyu Hwan , Won Jong Ho , Drennan Ward R. , Jameyson Elyse , Miyasaki Gary , Norton Susan J. , Rubinstein Jay T.
Published: March 2012

The number of pediatric cochlear implant (CI) recipients has increased substantially over the past 10 years, and it has become more important to understand the underlying mechanisms of the variable outcomes in this population. In this study, psychoacoustic measures of spectral-ripple and Schroeder-phase discrimination, the Clinical Assessment of Music Perception, and consonant-nucleus-consonant (CNC) word recognition in quiet and spondee reception threshold (SRT) in noise tests have been presented to 11 prelingually deafened CI users, aged 8–16 years with at least 5 years of CI experience. The children’s performance was compared to the previously reported results of postlingually deafened adult CI users. The average spectral-ripple threshold (n = 10) was 2.08 ripples/octave. The average Schroeder-phase discrimination was 67.3% for 50 Hz and 56.5% for 200 Hz (n = 9). The Clinical Assessment of Music Perception test showed that the average complex pitch direction discrimination was 2.98 semitones. The mean melody score was at a chance level, and the mean timbre score was 34.1% correct. The mean CNC word recognition score was 68.6%, and the mean SRT in steady noise was –8.5 dB SNR. The children’s spectral-ripple resolution, CNC word recognition, and SRT in noise performances were, within statistical bounds, the same as in a population of postlingually deafened adult CI users. However, Schroeder-phase discrimination and music perception were generally poorer than in the adults. It is possible then that this poorer performance seen in the children might be partly accounted for by the delayed maturation in their temporal processing ability, and because of this, the children’s performance may have been driven more by their spectral sensitivity.
Novel Compound Heterozygous Mutations in the Cathepsin K Gene in Japanese Female Siblings with Pyknodysostosis
Authors: Matsushita M. , Kitoh H. , Kaneko H. , Mishima K. , Itoh Y. , Hattori T. , Ishiguro N.
Published: March 2012

We report on female siblings with pyknodysostosis who showed common clinical and radiographic features including disproportionate short stature, dental abnormalities, increased bone density, open fontanelle, and acroosteolysis. Sequence analysis of the cathepsin K (CTSK) gene demonstrated compound heterozygous mutations (935 C>T, A277V and 489 G>C, R122P) in the affected siblings and a heterozygous mutation in their parents. The former missense mutation has previously been reported in 6 unrelated patients, and the latter seemed to be a novel mutation. Atomic model assessment of the CTSK gene revealed that the R122P mutant could disrupt hydrogen bonds binding with chondroitin 4-sulfate leading to a decrease in the collagen-degrading activity of cathepsin K.
Role for Substance P–Based Nociceptive Signaling in Progenitor Cell Activation and Angiogenesis During Ischemia in Mice and in Human Subjects
Authors: Amadesi Silvia , Reni Carlotta , Katare Rajesh , Meloni Marco , Oikawa Atsuhiko , Beltrami Antonio P. , Avolio Elisa , Cesselli Daniela , Fortunato Orazio , Spinetti Gaia , Ascione Raimondo , Cangiano Elisa , Valgimigli Marco , Hunt Stephen P. , Emanueli Costanza , Madeddu Paolo
Published: March 2012

Background—

Pain triggers a homeostatic alarm reaction to injury. It remains unknown, however, whether nociceptive signaling activated by ischemia is relevant for progenitor cells (PC) release from bone marrow. To this end, we investigated the role of the neuropeptide substance P (SP) and cognate neurokinin 1 (NK1) nociceptor in PC activation and angiogenesis during ischemia in mice and in human subjects.

Methods and Results—

The mouse bone marrow contains sensory fibers and PC that express SP. Moreover, SP-induced migration provides enrichment for PC that express NK1 and promote reparative angiogenesis after transplantation in a mouse model of limb ischemia. Acute myocardial infarction and limb ischemia increase SP levels in peripheral blood, decrease SP levels in bone marrow, and stimulate the mobilization of NK1-expressing PC, with these effects being abrogated by systemic administration of the opioid receptor agonist morphine. Moreover, bone marrow reconstitution with NK1-knockout cells results in depressed PC mobilization, delayed blood flow recovery, and reduced neovascularization after ischemia. We next asked whether SP is instrumental to PC mobilization and homing in patients with ischemia. Human PC express NK1, and SP-induced migration provides enrichment for proangiogenic PC. Patients with acute myocardial infarction show high circulating levels of SP and NK1-positive cells that coexpress PC antigens, such as CD34, KDR, and CXCR4. Moreover, NK1-expressing PC are abundant in infarcted hearts but not in hearts that developed an infarct after transplantation.

Conclusions—

Our data highlight the role of SP in reparative neovascularization. Nociceptive signaling may represent a novel target of regenerative medicine.