bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple telencephalic and extratelencephalic embryonic domains contribute neurons to the medial extended amygdala
Authors: Bupesh Munisamy , Legaz Isabel , Abellán Antonio , Medina Loreta
Published: December 2010

Dysfunctions in emotional control and social behavior are behind human neuropsychiatric disorders, some of which are associated with an alteration of amygdalar development. The medial extended amygdala is a key telencephalic center for control of social behavior, but very little is known about its development. We used in vitro migration assays for analyzing the origin of the neurons of the medial extended amygdala in mouse embryos (E13.5–E16.5). We compared the migration assays with immunofluorescence/immunohistochemistry for calbindin and radial glial fibers and with mRNA expression of several genetic markers of distinct forebrain subdivisions. We provide experimental evidence for multiple embryonic origins of the principal neurons of the medial extended amygdala. In particular, we provide novel evidence indicating that a major part of the neurons derives from a caudoventral pallidal subdivision (previously called or included as part of the anterior peduncular area), forming a cell corridor with similar molecular features (expression of Lhx6 and calbindin), connectivity, and function, which relates to reproductive behavior. We also provide novel experimental evidence indicating that the ventral pallium produces some neurons for the medial amygdala, which correlates with data from Lhx9 expression. Our results also confirm that some neurons of the medial extended amygdala originate in the preoptic area (our results indicate that these cells specifically originate in its commissural subdivision) and the supraoptoparaventricular domain of the hypothalamus. Our study helps to set up the foundations for a better understanding of medial amygdalar control of behavior in normal and abnormal conditions. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:1505–1525, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enhancement in Dibenzothiophene Reactive Adsorption from Liquid Fuel via Incorporation of Sulfur Heteroatoms into the Nanoporous Carbon Matrix
Authors: Seredych Mykola , Khine Monmon , Bandosz Teresa J.
Published: December 2010

Adsorption of dibenzothiophene (DBT) and 4,6‐dimethyldibenzothiophene (DMDBT) from simulated diesel fuel was investigated with polymer‐derived carbon matrices. Sulfur was incorporated to the carbon surface via a high‐temperature hydrogen sulfide reduction of oxygen‐containing groups. The resultant carbons were characterized by nitrogen adsorption, thermal analysis, potentiometric titration, and elemental analysis. The selectivities for DBT and DMDBT adsorption were calculated with reference to naphthalene. The carbon matrices studied had comparable structures, hence, the effects of the sulfur functionalities were evident in an increase in dibenzothiophenes selectivity and the breakthrough capacity; this was especially visible at a breakthrough point where small pores are expected to be active in the adsorption process. Incorporation of sulfur atoms into the aromatic rings of the carbon matrix increases the ability of the surface to attract dibenzothiophenes via dispersive interactions (sulfur–sulfur bridges). Sulfur and sulfur–oxygen groups present in larger pores enhance the amount of adsorbed dibenzothiophenes via specific acid–base and polar interactions. They also contribute to the reactive adsorption of DBT and DMDBT (oxidized) and their chemisorption on the carbon surface.
Reevaluation of quantitative flow cytometric analysis for TLR2 on monocytes using F(ab′)2 fragments of monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Oba Ryutaro , Orihara Koji , Kumagai Tomoaki , Hirai Hiroyuki , Nagata Kinya , Hamasaki Shuichi , Tei Chuwa , Masataka Nakamura
Published: December 2010

In patients with refractory infections, reliable markers that monitor the severity and healing process are needed. The expression level of toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2) on monocytes is such candidate. In the conventional assay system, the whole IgG (wIgG) form of anti‐TLR2 mAb has been used with control IgG, which blocks nonantigen‐specific bindings. However, the competitive reactions against Fcγ receptors (FcγRs) between labeled anti‐TLR2 mAbs and control IgG should be considered. Our goal was to precisely quantify TLR2 expression level on monocytes by flow cytometry (FCM). In this study, we prepared anti‐TLR2 mAbs, D45 (IgG2a), and D29 (IgG1), as well as their fragment antigen‐binding [F(ab′)2] fragments to avoid nonantigen‐specific binding to FcγRs. And then, we determined TLR2 expression levels on monocytes by using these mAbs/fragments and our calibration system using recombinant TLR2 beads. The binding of PE‐labeled D45 wIgG to monocytes was completely blocked with unlabeled D45 wIgG, but not with unlabeled D45 F(ab′)2 fragment. Although the nonantigen‐specific binding of D29 wIgG to nonstimulated monocytes was negligible, it was enhanced in interleukin‐10‐stimulated monocytes. It proved difficult to completely block nonantigen‐specific binding of D45 and D29 wIgGs by treatment with control IgG. It was demonstrated that the use of fluorescent‐labeled antigen‐binding region lacking the fragment crystallizable portion of anti‐TLR2 mAb [such as the PE‐labeled F(ab′)2 fragment] is indispensible for quantification of TLR2 levels on monocytes in flow cytometry. © 2010 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Rapid cell population identification in flow cytometry data
Authors: Aghaeepour Nima , Nikolic Radina , Hoos Holger H. , Brinkman Ryan R.
Published: December 2010

We have developed flowMeans, a time‐efficient and accurate method for automated identification of cell populations in flow cytometry (FCM) data based on K‐means clustering. Unlike traditional K‐means, flowMeans can identify concave cell populations by modelling a single population with multiple clusters. flowMeans uses a change point detection algorithm to determine the number of sub‐populations, enabling the method to be used in high throughput FCM data analysis pipelines. Our approach compares favorably to manual analysis by human experts and current state‐of‐the‐art automated gating algorithms. flowMeans is freely available as an open source R package through Bioconductor. © 2010 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
Phenotypic abnormalities strongly reflect genotype in patients with unexplained cytopenias
Authors: Cutler Jevon A. , Wells Denise A. , van de Loosdrecht Arjan A. , de Baca Monica E. , Kalnoski Michael H. , Zehentner Barbara K. , Eidenschink Lisa , Ghirardelli Keely M. , Biggerstaff Julie Sanford , Loken Michael R.
Published: December 2010

Background:

In patients with unexplained cytopenias, abnormal karyotyping studies can be found with inconclusive light microscopic findings. Multidimensional flow cytometry (FCM) can identify myelomonocytic cells with aberrant phenotypes often not seen by standard morphology.

Methods:

In 431 patients presenting with unexplained cytopenia(s) FCM results were compared to abnormal karyotyping and FISH results recognized as associated with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) in the 2008 WHO classification, to assess the degree of and types of phenotypic abnormalities observed using a previously reported flow cytometric scoring system (FCSS). Fluorescence activated cell sorting was also used to identify subpopulations of abnormal maturing myelomonocytic cells that carry the genotypic abnormality.

Results:

For marrows with complex (three or more karyotypic abnormalities), two abnormalities, isolated chromosome seven anomalies, del(5q) or del(13q), 100% of cases were positive when using a FCSS cutoff of ≥2. Trisomy 8, del(20q), and minus Y had flow scores ≥2 in 72, 60, and 18%, respectively, but in some cases the flow score was high, indicating myeloid dysplasia. Most patients (16/22) with high myeloid progenitor cells (MyPC) (>20%) also exhibited maturing myeloid cell abnormalities by FCM. Morphology was negative in the maturing myeloid cells in many cases with phenotypically abnormal myeloid cells.

Conclusions:

The high correlation between genotypic and phenotypic abnormalities suggests a possible increased utility of flow cytometry in the diagnosis of patients with unexplained cytopenias and may be useful in future clinical studies and in the classification by the WHO, using the FCSS rather than simple counting of flow cytometric abnormalities. © 2010 International Clinical Cytometry Society
Chronic cough: a natural (and parental) disaster
Authors: Moja Lorenzo
Published: December 2010

The second in this series of Dr Cochrane clinical vignettes is based upon an overview of Cochrane Reviews that was published in the previous issue of Evidence‐Based Child Health: Russell K, Chang AB, Foisy M, Thomson D and Williams K: The Cochrane Library and the Treatment of Chronic Cough in Children: An Overview of Reviews: Evid.‐Based Child Health 2010, 5: 1196–1205.

Dr Cochrane is a unique self‐learning experience—the integration of Cochrane evidence with a quirky fictional story and multiple‐choice questions provides readers with the opportunity to explore and understand the applicability of a Cochrane Review or Overview in a new way.

In this series of fictional clinical vignettes, Dr Cochrane travels across time from the past century to the present day, to solve clinical problems using evidence from Cochrane Reviews. Read the associated article and/or listen to the Evidence‐Based Child‐Health podcast available online at www.cochrane.org/podcasts/ and then test your knowledge with six multiple choice questions. You can find the answers to the questions in this issue on page 2007.

In the next issue of Evidence‐based Child Health, Dr Cochrane explores the evidence for croup, based upon the Cochrane Overview available in this issue (Bjornson C, Russell K, Foisy M and Johnson DW: The Cochrane Library and the Treatment of Croup in Children: An Overview of Reviews. Evid.‐Based Child Health 2010, 5, 1555–1565). Copyright © 2010 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Summary of ‘Iron supplementation for breath‐holding attacks in children’
Authors: Office Evidence‐Based Child Health Canadian Editorial
Published: December 2010

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Zehetner AA, Orr N, Buckmaster A, Williams K, Wheeler DM. Iron supplementation for breath‐holding attacks in children. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2010, Issue 5. Art. No.: CD008132. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD008132.pub2. Copyright © 2010 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Commentary on ‘The use of polymer‐based oral rehydration solutions for treating acute watery diarrhoea: should we change current practice?’ with a Response from the Review Authors
Authors: Koletzko Sibylle
Published: December 2010

This is a commentary on a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Gregorio GV, Gonzales ML, Dans LF, Martinez EG. Polymer‐based oral rehydration solution for treating acute watery diarrhoea. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2009, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD006519.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying Summary article. Copyright © 2010 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Commentary on ‘Braces for idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents’
Authors: Weiss Hans‐Rudolf , Turnbull (Goodall) Deborah
Published: December 2010

This is a commentary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Negrini S, Minozzi S, Bettany‐Saltikov J, Zaina F, Chockalingam N, Grivas TB, Kotwicki T, Maruyama T, Romano M, Vasiliadis ES. Braces for idiopathic scoliosis in adolescents. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2010, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD006850. DOI: 10.1002/14 651 858.CD006850.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying Summary article. Copyright © 2010 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Commentary on ‘Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) versus multiple insulin injections for type 1 diabetes mellitus’ with a response from the review authors
Authors: Scaramuzza Andrea E. , Zuccotti Gian Vincenzo
Published: December 2010

This is a commentary on a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Misso ML, Egberts KJ, Page M, O'Connor D, Shaw J. Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) versus multiple insulin injections for type 1 diabetes mellitus. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2010, Issue 1. Art. No.: CD005103. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD005103.pub2.

Further information for this Cochrane review is available in this issue of EBCH in the accompanying Summary article. Copyright © 2010 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Summary of ‘Antifungal therapy in infants and children with proven, probable or suspected invasive fungal infections’
Authors: Office Evidence‐Based Child Health Canadian Editorial
Published: December 2010

This is a summary of a Cochrane review, published in this issue of EBCH, first published as: Blyth CC, Hale K, Palasanthiran P, O'Brien T, Bennett MH. Antifungal therapy in infants and children with proven, probable or suspected invasive fungal infections. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2010, Issue 2. Art. No.: CD006343. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD006343.pub2. Copyright © 2010 The Cochrane Collaboration. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. The Cochrane Collaboration
Characterizing ecohydrological and biogeochemical connectivity across multiple scales: a new conceptual framework
Authors: Wang Lixin , Zou Chris , O'Donnell Frances , Good Stephen , Franz Trenton , Miller Gretchen R. , Caylor Kelly K. , Cable Jessica M. , Bond Barbara
Published: December 2010

The connectivity of ecohydrological and biogeochemical processes across time and space is a critical determinant of ecosystem structure and function. However, characterizing cross‐scale connectivity is a challenge due to the lack of theories and modelling approaches that are applicable at multiple scales and due to our rudimentary understanding of the magnitude and dynamics of such connectivity. In this article, we present a conceptual framework for upscaling quantitative models of ecohydrological and biogeochemical processes using electrical circuit analogies and the Thévenin's theorem. Any process with a feasible linear electrical circuit analogy can be represented in larger scale models as a simplified Thévenin equivalent. The Thévenin equivalent behaves identically to the original circuit, so the mechanistic features of the model are maintained at larger scales. We present three case applications: water transport, carbon transport, and nitrogen transport. These examples show that Thévenin's theorem could be a useful tool for upscaling models of interconnected ecohydrological and biogeochemical systems. It is also possible to investigate how disruptions in micro‐scale connectivity can affect macro‐scale processes. The utility of the Thévenin's theorem in environmental sciences is somewhat limited, because not all processes can be represented as linear electrical circuits. However, where it is applicable, it provides an inherently scalable and quantitative framework for describing ecohydrological connectivity. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding patterns of vegetation degradation at meaningful scales within saline landscapes
Authors: Callow J. N.
Published: December 2010

Understanding patterns of vegetation degradation in saline catchments has been a major challenge to ecohydrology researchers in the conservation biology, geomorphology and hydrology disciplines. Hydrologists have measured streamflow quantity and quality at point locations and modelled at the landscape or macro‐scale. Botanists have investigated species diversity, structure and patterns at the micro‐scale in transect studies. Yet, the reach‐scale is widely recognized as the most appropriate scale for management and considering geomorphology. As a result, links between streamflow salinity and vegetation condition and river health remain poorly understood in a spatial sense. This study uses digital multi‐spectral imagery (DMSI) collected along a freshening downstream salinity gradient in a southwestern Australian catchment affected by secondary dryland salinity. DMSI was collected over 59 km in a 1200‐m swath at the micro‐scale (2‐m pixels), and calibrated against field transect data from 12 sites across three sections (degraded, transitional and ‘locally healthy’) to map vegetation condition. Results show that measures of mean annual salinity cannot account for variability in vegetation condition, but peak salinity concentration maintained over a length of time similar to greenhouse trials of plant mortality (∼60 days) appears to be a physiologically meaningful descriptor of streamflow salinity. The 60‐day peak salinity concentration showed high correlation to patterns of vegetation condition and published plant salinity tolerance values. Remote‐sensed imagery that captures vegetative condition in combination with physiologically meaningful descriptors of streamflow salinity provides a powerful tool to identify the spatial patterns of vegetation degradation at meaningful management scales within a saline catchment. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cover Picture: Eur. J. Immunol. 1/11
Authors: Takenaka Nobuyuki , Edamatsu Hironori , Suzuki Noboru , Saito Hiromitsu , Inoue Yukiko , Oka Masahiro , Hu Lizhi , Kataoka Tohru
Published: December 2010

The cover image of this issue consists of a section of the dorsal skin of K5‐PLCε‐TG mice stained with anti‐PLCε antibody (red), with the nuclei visualized by DAPI staining (blue), and is taken from Takenaka et al. (pp. 202–213). In this article, the authors investigate the role of phospholipase Cε (PLCε) in skin inflammation by creating transgenic mice (TG) overexpressing PLCε in epidermal keratinocytes (K5: keratin 5 promoter). The authors show that the resulting transgenic mice spontaneously develop skin inflammation, and that this is correlated with an increased cytokines production, including IL‐23, by the keratinocytes, leading to the activation of IL‐22‐producing T cells.
Copy number variation and susceptibility to complex traits
Authors: Canales Cesar P. , Walz Katherina
Published: December 2010

Copy number variations (CNV) within the genome are extremely abundant. In this closeup, Canales and Walz discuss how CNV are associated with normal variation, genomic disorders, genome evolution, adaptive traits and how the use of a novel screen described by Ermakova et al in this issue that is designed to identify human disease‐relevant phenotypes associated with CNV in the mouse can help elucidating susceptibility or predisposition to diseases loci.

See related article in EMBO Molecular Medicine by Olga Ermakova et al: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/emmm.201000112
Modelling a cohesive‐frictional debris flow: an experimental, theoretical, and field‐based study
Authors: De Blasio Fabio Vittorio , Breien Hedda , Elverhøi Anders
Published: December 2010

The rheology of debris flows is difficult to characterize owing to the varied composition and to the uneven distribution of the components that may range from clay to large boulders, in addition to water. Few studies have addressed debris flow rheology from observational, experimental, and theoretical viewpoints in conjunction. We present a coupled rheological‐numerical model to characterize the debris flows in which cohesive and frictional materials are both present. As a first step, we consider small‐scale artificial debris flows in a flume with variable percentages of clay versus sand, and measure separately the rheological properties of sand–clay mixtures. A comparison with the predictions of a modified version of the numerical model BING shows a reasonable agreement between measurements and simulations.

As application to a field case, we analyse a recent debris flow that occurred in Fjærland (Western Norway) for which much information is now available. The event was caused by a glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) originating from the failure of a moraine ridge. In a previous contribution (Breien et al., Landslides, 2008, 5: 271–280) we focused on the hydrological and geomorphological aspects. In particular we documented the marked erosion and reported the change in sediment transport during the event. In contrast to the laboratory debris flows, the presence of large boulders and the higher normal pressure inside the natural debris flow requires the introduction of a novel rheological model that distinguishes between mud‐to–clast supported material. We present simulations with a modified BING model with the new cohesive‐frictional rheology. To account for the severe erosion operated by the debris flow on the colluvial deposits of Fjærland, we also suggest a simple model for erosion and bulking along the slope path. Numerical simulations suggest that a self‐sustaining mechanism could partly explain the extreme growth of debris flows running on a soft terrain.
The effect of fullerenes and functionalized fullerenes on Daphnia magna phototaxis and swimming behavior
Authors: Brausch Kathryn A , Anderson Todd A , Smith Philip N , Maul Jonathan D
Published: December 2010

The effects of carbon fullerenes (C60) on the environment is a growing concern as the use of nanotechnology continues to increase. Previous studies have reported alteration in Daphnia magna behavior, including increased hopping frequency, heart rate, and appendage movement in response to tetrahydrofuran-solubilized C60 and increased hopping rate and appendage movement in response to tetrahydrofuran-solubilized C60HxC70Hx exposure. The objective of the current study was to evaluate effects of water-stirred C60 and sonicated carboxylic acid functionalized fullerenes (fC60) on D. magna behavior. Behavioral endpoints are important because changes in behavior can influence predator avoidance behaviors, alter predation risk, and potentially lead to population-level effects in D. magna. To evaluate the potential effect of fullerenes on phototactic behavior, D. magna were exposed to 545.4 µg/L C60 and 545.6 µg/L fC60, and vertical position was monitored. Daphnia magna were also exposed to 545.4 µg/L C60, 545.6 µg/L fC60, and 829.3 µg/L fC60, and swimming movements were recorded. Fullerenes altered the vertical migration response of D. magna to the addition of food, but D. magna vertical position response to predator cues was similar for fullerenes and controls. In addition, D. magna reduced swimming speed when exposed to C60, but other components of D. magna swimming behavior were not affected. This research supports previous findings and suggests that C60 may influence D. magna behavior and highlights the need for further research on sublethal behavioral modifications in aquatic organisms in response to nanomaterials. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011; 30:878–884. © 2010 SETAC
Anosognosia for memory deficit in amnestic mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Galeone Filomena , Pappalardo Stella , Chieffi Sergio , Iavarone Alessandro , Carlomagno Sergio
Published: December 2010

Objective

to investigate patterns of anosognosia for memory deficit in subjects with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

the study involved twenty‐five subjects with MCI, 15 with mild AD and 21 normal controls (NC). Subjective rating of memory functioning was assessed with a six‐items questionnaire that was administered before and after memory testing; an informant version from caregivers gave a discrepancy score (SRD). In the Objective Judgement (OJ) task, aiming to evaluate memory‐monitoring abilities, subjects were requested three times to predict their memory performance in recalling words from a list of ten. Then they had to recall the words. Prediction accuracy was computed by subtracting the predicted performance from the actual performance.

Results

MCI and AD showed reduced awareness of memory difficulties at the SRD and did not change their rating of these difficulties after memory testing. At the OJ task, MCI and AD consistently overestimated their memory performances as compared with NC. The SRD and OJ measures were not correlated with some patients being impaired on only one measure. Only the OJ measure was significantly related to executive functioning.

Conclusions

AD and MCI subjects show unawareness for memory deficit and significant memory‐monitoring disorder. This confirms that anosognosia is an important symptom of MCI. Similarities of patterns of impaired awareness between AD and MCI supports the view of a continuum of the anosognosia phenomenon in MCI and AD. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The transcriptional response to chronic stress and glucocorticoid receptor blockade in the hippocampal dentate gyrus
Authors: Datson Nicole A. , Speksnijder Niels , Mayer Joseph L. , Steenbergen Peter J. , Korobko Oksana , Goeman Jelle , de Kloet E. Ronald , Joëls Marian , Lucassen Paul J.
Published: December 2010

The dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus plays a crucial role in learning and memory. This subregion is unique in its ability to generate new neurons throughout life and integrate these new neurons into the hippocampal circuitry. Neurogenesis has further been implicated in hippocampal plasticity and depression. Exposure to chronic stress affects DG function and morphology and suppresses neurogenesis and long‐term potentiation (LTP) with consequences for cognition. Previous studies demonstrated that glucocorticoid receptor (GR) blockade by a brief treatment with the GR antagonist mifepristone (RU486) rapidly reverses the stress and glucocorticoid effects on neurogenesis. The molecular pathways underlying both the stress‐induced effects and the RU486 effects on the DG are, however, largely unknown. The aim of this study was therefore (1) to investigate by microarray analysis which genes and pathways in the DG are sensitive to chronic stress and (2) to investigate to what extent blockade of GR can normalize these stress‐induced effects on DG gene expression. Chronic stress exposure affected the expression of 90 genes in the DG (P < 0.01), with an overrepresentation of genes involved in brain development and morphogenesis and synaptic transmission. RU486 treatment of stressed animals affected expression of 107 genes; however, mostly different genes than those responding to stress. Interestingly, we found CREBBP to be normalized by RU486 treatment to levels observed in control animals, suggesting that CREB‐signaling may play a central role in mediating the chronic stress effects on neurogenesis, LTP and calcium currents. The identified genetic pathways provide insight into the stress‐induced adaptive plasticity of the hippocampal DG that is so central in learning and memory and will direct future studies on the functional outcome and modulation of these stress effects.© 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rainfall, fog and throughfall dynamics in a subtropical ridge top cloud forest, National Park of Garajonay (La Gomera, Canary Islands, Spain)
Authors: García‐Santos G. , Bruijnzeel L. A.
Published: December 2010

Mixed tree‐heath/beech forest is a type of subtropical montane cloud forest found on wind‐ and fog‐exposed ridges in the Canary Islands. With a dry season of 5 months and an annual precipitation of 600–700 mm, the extra water inputs through fog interception assume particular importance in this environment. Measurements were made of rainfall, fog occurrence, wind speed and direction as well as of throughfall (TF) in a ridge top cloud forest located near the centre of the National Park of Garajonay on the island of La Gomera. Measured amounts of incident rainfall were corrected for wind‐induced losses around the gauge and for topographic effects. Amounts of fog water as collected by a 0·25‐m2 fog screen were corrected for changes in effective screen surface collection area depending on wind direction. No such corrections were taken into account in most if not all previous studies of rainfall and fog water inputs in the Canary Islands. TF fractions differed between events with rain‐only (87% of wind‐corrected rainfall), fog‐only (∼6% of wind‐corrected fog) and mixed precipitation (110%). It is concluded that the fog screen was more efficient at capturing fog water than the forest canopy, whereas previous wetting of the canopy and bryophytes by rain may have caused the higher TF fraction found on days with rainfall and fog. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
M&A resurgence: Good or bad?
Authors: Gaughan Patrick A.
Published: December 2010

The Great Recession has officially been declared to have ended in June 2009. Many companies are flush with cash. But it has been a jobless recovery, and consumers have remained on the sidelines during the recession and weak recovery. Companies may remain cautious until consumers begin spending again. And instead of using their cash to repurchase stock or produce higher dividends for investors, many companies want to spend their cash buying other companies. But is this strategy good or bad for corporate America? And are CEOs promoting questionable deals to line their own pockets with money?. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
M&A update
Authors: Sánchez Carol , Seeber Christina D. , Goldberg Stephen R.
Published: December 2010

Most of 2009 was slow for mergers and acquisitions (M&As), due to financial turmoil and economic uncertainty that carried over from late 2008. But the deal market rebounded in the fourth quarter of 2009, and 2010 appears to be much better for M&As than 2009. Yet while the global economy shows signs of recovery, and many buyers and sellers are flush with cash, M&A activity may begin slowly in the United States in 2011‐due to uncertainty about the business outlook and potential tax changes.

How healthy is current deal making? And what is the short‐ and long‐term outlook for M&As?. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Creative M&A deals for a tough economy
Authors: Martin Dale R. , Wathen Michael M. , Cotter James F.
Published: December 2010

The economy has greatly hindered merger‐and‐acquisition (M&A) deal makers over the past few years. But deals are still being made‐especially when both parties are willing to be creative in structuring the deal. Then the lack of cash and credit can be overcome. The authors look at some of the innovative deal structures being used to overcome obstacles of our tough, slumping economy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selling your business: Avoid today's hazards
Authors: Kohn David S.
Published: December 2010

In the current economic climate, those selling a business are forced to be extremely cautious. There are many pitfalls to avoid‐making the transaction even more complex. The author explains how sellers can avoid deadly hazards with a key five‐step process. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Collaboration: An alternative to M&As
Authors: Venema William H.
Published: December 2010

“If you do not seek out allies and helpers, then you will be isolated and weak.” So wrote Sun Tzu in his classic ancient text The Art of War. And it suggests an alternative to mergers and acquisitions (M&As) in these economically challenging times: collaboration.

Every business will encounter gaps in its knowledge and resources. If structured properly, collaboration can bridge those gaps. The author looks at some recent examples of collaboration and explains what you need to know to make this strategy work for your company. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The new horizontal merger guidelines
Authors: Tokic Stijepko
Published: December 2010

As a presidential candidate, Barack Obama was critical of the Bush administration's weak enforcement of antitrust laws. So now the Obama administration has released new horizontal merger guidelines. How do they differ from the old guidelines? And what impact will they have?. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
M&A prophecy: One year later
Authors: Sherman Andrew J. , Badillo Alejandro
Published: December 2010

Last year, the authors wrote an article for JCAF entitled “Is the M&A Market Back?” They were not sure if the glass was half full or half empty. Now, a year later, they look back at their predictions. Were they accurate? And what does the future hold? © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The new financial statement presentation format
Authors: Olsen Lori , Weirich Thomas R.
Published: December 2010

In any proposed merger or acquisition, the buyer must critically examine the target company's financial statements. But the way financial statements are presented can frustrate a buyer, who needs clear and precise information about the target company. Now the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the International Accounting Standards Board are working on a joint project to improve how financial statement information is organized and presented. The authors look at this work and give some examples of the new financial statement presentations. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lost knowledge—What is the cost?
Authors: Trugman‐Nikol Gail L.
Published: December 2010

There have been warnings for years about the unprecedented loss of knowledge and expertise that will occur when the baby boomers retire—which could bring a potentially catastrophic effect on businesses and government. Why? Most companies don't understand the most effective and efficient way to “transfer knowledge” from one employee to another or even how to begin a project of this magnitude. This article offers information on how to plan for this problem. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Gold nanoparticle formation using Shewanella oneidensis: a fast biosorption and slow reduction process
Authors: De Corte Simon , Hennebel Tom , Verschuere Stephanie , Cuvelier Claude , Verstraete Willy , Boon Nico
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: The metal respiring bacterium Shewanella oneidensis has previously been used for reduction of Pd(II) into Pd(0) nanoparticles. This study investigated whether Shewanella oneidensis could also perform the reduction of Au(III) to Au(0). The kinetics of both the biosorption and reduction of Au(III) were studied.

RESULTS: Biosorption of Au(III) was a fast and efficient process, and depended on the presence of an electron donor, the pH and the medium used. The reduction process, however, appeared to be a slow process, requiring the presence of an electron donor. As reduction also occurred in heat‐killed cells, it is suggested that the reduction is non‐enzymatic. At a concentration of 100 mg L−1 Au(III), the nanoparticles were mainly smaller than 10 nm and precipitated intracellularly. With H2 as the electron donor, it was shown that the location of the particles and the size could be steered by changing the concentration of Au(III).

CONCLUSIONS: After a fast biosorption and slow reduction process, Au(0)‐nanoparticles were formed inside the cells or on the cell wall of Shewanella oneidensis. In most cases, these particles had interesting properties, such as small size and a narrow size distribution, which can make them suitable for applications in, for example, catalysis. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of aging on male reproduction in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Kanuga Manasi K. , Benner Maia J. , Doble Justin A. , Wilson‐Leedy Jonas G. , Robison Barrie D. , Ingermann Rolf L.
Published: December 2010

The study was designed to test the hypothesis that male aging is associated with a change in reproductive function in the zebrafish. Young (290 ± 37 d) and older (911 ± 48 d) males were combined with females (604 ± 24 d) to test the effect of male age on the number and fertility of eggs laid by their mates. 48% of breeding trials with young males and 25% of the trails with older males resulted in egg deposition. Although young males were associated with significantly more successful breeding attempts than older males, number of eggs laid per clutch, number and percent of fertilized eggs and the number and percent living embryos were not statistically different between young and older males. These data suggest that male aging is associated with altered reproductive behavior and/or female response but not in sperm quality per se. Consistent with this interpretation were the findings that percent motility and sperm motility characteristics did not differ between sperm from young and older males as assessed by computer‐assisted sperm analysis. However, older males contained higher quantities of extractable sperm than did young males, perhaps associated with fewer successful breeding attempts. Age‐related effects on male reproductive in the zebrafish may therefore be a consequence of behavioral or morphological features that play a role in female mate choice and/ or male sexual response. J. Exp. Zool. 315:156–161, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical utility of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in patients with prostate cancer: Can ADC values contribute to assess the aggressiveness of prostate cancer?
Authors: Itou Yasushi , Nakanishi Katsuyuki , Narumi Yoshifumi , Nishizawa Yasuko , Tsukuma Hideaki
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To retrospectively evaluate the relationship between apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values and Gleason score (GS) in prostate cancer.

Methods

A total of 60 patients who underwent radical prostatectomy for clinically localized prostate cancer were selected for this study. Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance (MR) images were obtained using a 1.5 T system. ADC values were analyzed between three groups: GS of 6 or less (n = 7); GS of 7 (n = 37); and GS of 8 or higher (n = 16). ADC values of the three GS groups were statistically analyzed in order to determine the relationship with GS. In the 37 patients with GS = 7 the difference in ADC values between GS 3+4 and GS 4+3 was analyzed.

Results

Median ADC values (10−3 mm2/s) of the three GS groups were 1.04 (GS = 6 or less), 0.867 (GS = 7), and 0.729 (GS = 8 or higher). Although there was considerable overlap among the groups, the differences in ADC were statistically significant (P < 0.0001). There was a significant inverse correlation between GS and ADC values (z = −0.437, P < 0.0005). Median ADC values (10−3 mm2/s) of GS 3+4 and GS 4+3 patients were 0.88 and 0.814, respectively (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

ADC values showed a negative correlation with GS. Pathologically, however, there was considerable intrasubject heterogeneity. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:167–172. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
3 Tesla MRI detects accelerated hippocampal volume reduction in postmenopausal women
Authors: Goto Masami , Abe Osamu , Miyati Tosiaki , Inano Sachiko , Hayashi Naoto , Aoki Shigeki , Mori Harushi , Kabasawa Hiroyuki , Ino Kenji , Yano Keiichi , Iida Kyouhito , Mima Kazuo , Ohtomo Kuni
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To clarify age‐related structural changes specific to hippocampal volume by hierarchizing according to age, gender, and menopausal status. Many studies report the neuroprotective effects of estrogen and age‐related brain volume changes; however, there are no studies regarding age‐related change specific to hippocampal volume in terms of age, gender, and menopausal status.

Materials and Methods

T1‐weighted MR images were obtained in 412 healthy adults divided into eight groups according to age and gender, to analyze brain volume change focusing on hippocampal volume.

Results

Voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) revealed significantly smaller gray matter volume in the hippocampus bilaterally in females aged in their fifties (51 of 59 females were at menopause) compared with females in their forties (3 of 46 females were at menopause). No significant difference was found, however, between female groups in their fifties versus sixties, or sixties versus seventies; or between male groups in their forties versus fifties, fifties versus sixties, or sixties versus seventies. In addition, VBM revealed significant hippocampal volume reduction bilaterally in all postmenopausal women compared with all premenopausal women.

Conclusion

The results of the current study suggest that the menopause may be associated with hippocampal volume reduction. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:48–53. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Renal cell carcinoma associated with Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusion: Radiological findings mimicking papillary subtype
Authors: Kato Hiroki , Kanematsu Masayuki , Yokoi Shigeaki , Miwa Kousei , Horie Kengo , Deguchi Takashi , Hirose Yoshinobu
Published: December 2010

The authors describe the computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of an 18‐year‐old man with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) associated with the Xp11.2 translocation/transcription factor E3 (TFE3) gene fusion (Xp11 translocation carcinoma). The lesion was hyperdense on unenhanced CT, hypovascular on contrast‐enhanced studies, hypointense on T2‐weighted MR images, and hemosiderin deposition was suspected on phase‐shift gradient‐echo MR images. Histopathological specimens revealed pathological findings resembling papillary RCC predominantly and exhibited immunoreactivity for TFE3. Because there is often considerable morphological overlap between this carcinoma and papillary RCC, the imaging findings of Xp11 translocation carcinoma may be similar to those of the papillary subtype. Therefore, Xp11 translocation carcinoma should be considered, particularly in young patients when radiologic images demonstrate a renal tumor mimicking the papillary subtype. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:217–220. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Papillary muscle involvement in myocardial infarction: Initial results using multicontrast late‐enhancement MRI
Authors: Yang Yuesong , Connelly Kim , Graham John J. , Detsky Jay , Lee Tony , Walcarius Rhonda , Paul Gideon , Wright Graham A. , Dick Alexander J.
Published: December 2010

We hypothesized that multicontrast late‐enhancement (MCLE) MRI would improve the identification of papillary muscle involvement (PM‐MI) in patients with myocardial infarction (MI), compared with conventional late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) MRI using the inversion recovery fast gradient echo (IR‐FGRE) technique. Cardiac LGE‐MRI studies using both MCLE and IR‐FGRE pulse sequences were performed on a 1.5 Tesla (T) MRI system in 23 patients following MI. In all patients, PM‐MI was confirmed by the diagnostic criteria as outlined below: (a) the increased signal intensity of PM was the same or similar to that of adjacent hyper‐enhanced left ventricular (LV) infarct segments; and (b) the hyper‐enhanced PM region was limited to the PM area defined by precontrast cine images of steady‐state free precession (SSFP). Visual contrast score was rated according to the differentiation between LV blood pool and hyper‐enhanced infarct myocardium. Quantitative contrast‐noise ratios (CNR) of infarct relative to blood pool and viable myocardium were also measured on MCLE and IR‐FGRE images. Of these 23 patients, 13 studies demonstrated primarily involvement of the territories of the right coronary (RCA, 8 patients) and/or left circumflex (LCX, 5 patients) arteries and 10 involved the territories of left anterior descending artery (LAD) with some LCX involvement. Although both IR‐FGRE and MCLE determined the presence and extent of LV MI, better visual contrast scores were achieved in MCLE (2.9 ± 0.3) compared with IR‐FGRE (1.6 ± 0.8, P < 0.001). The CNRs of infarct relative to LV blood pool showed a significant statistical difference (n = 23, P < 0.00001) between MCLE (16.2 ± 7.2) and IR‐FGRE images (4.8 ± 4.1), which is consistent with the result of visual contrast scores between infarct and LV blood pool. The CNRs of infarct versus viable myocardium did not demonstrate a significant statistical difference (n = 23, P = 0.61) between MCLE (14.4 ± 7.0) and IR‐FGRE images (13.6 ± 6.1). MCLE clearly demonstrated PM‐MI in all cases (100%, 23/23) while only 39% (9/23) could be visualized on the corresponding IR‐FGRE images. In conclusion, MCLE imaging provides better contrast between blood pool and infarct myocardium, thus improving the determination of PM‐MI. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:211–216. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation of the apparent diffusion coefficient value and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging findings with prognostic factors in invasive ductal carcinoma
Authors: Jeh Su Kyung , Kim Sung Hun , Kim Hyeon Sook , Kang Bong Joo , Jeong Seung Hee , Yim Hyeon Woo , Song Byung Joo
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To evaluate the correlation of the mean and minimal apparent diffusion coefficient values (ADCmean, ADCminimal) and dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings with prognostic factors in invasive ductal carcinoma.

Materials and Methods

A total of 107 women with invasive ductal cancer underwent breast MRI. The ADCmean and ADCminimal of the cancers were computed. MRI findings were retrospectively evaluated according to the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System (BI‐RADS) lexicon: mass or nonmass type, mass shape, mass margin, nonmass distribution, and enhancement pattern. Histological records were reviewed for tumor size, lymph node metastasis, histologic grade, and expression of estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), c‐erbB‐2(HER2), Ki‐67, and epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR). Correlations of ADC values and MR findings with prognostic factors were determined using the Mann–Whitney U‐test and the Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results

The mean ADCminimal was 0.78 ± 0.24 (×10−3 mm2/s), and the mean ADCmean was 1.01 ± 0.23 (×10−3 mm2/s). There was a significant correlation of the ADCmean value with ER expression (P = 0.027) and HER2 expression (P = 0.018). There was no significant relationship between ADCminimal and prognostic factors or between ADCmean and traditional prognostic factors, PR, Ki‐67 and EGFR. The majority of the mass type lesions were less than 5 cm in size and the majority of nonmass type lesions were more than 2 cm in size (P = 0.022). The margin of mass was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis (P = 0.031), ER expression (P = 0.013), PR expression (P = 0.036), HER2 expression (P = 0.019), and EGRF expression (P = 0.041). The rim internal enhancement was significantly correlated with Ki‐67 expression (P = 0.008).

Conclusion

The low ADCmean value was related to positive expression of ER and negative expression of HER2. A spiculated margin was related to a good prognosis, but rim enhancement was associated with a poor prognosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:102–109. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
T1‐weighted ultrashort echo time method for positive contrast imaging of magnetic nanoparticles and cancer cells bound with the targeted nanoparticles
Authors: Zhang Longjiang , Zhong Xiaodong , Wang Liya , Chen Hongwei , Wang Y. Andrew , Yeh Julie , Yang Lily , Mao Hui
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To obtain positive contrast based on T1 weighting from magnetic iron oxide nanoparticle (IONP) using ultrashort echo time (UTE) imaging and investigate quantitative relationship between positive contrast and the core size and concentration of IONPs.

Materials and Methods

Solutions of IONPs with different core sizes and concentrations were prepared. T1 and T2 relaxation times of IONPs were measured using the inversion recovery turbo spin echo (TSE) and multi‐echo spin echo sequences at 3 Tesla. T1‐weighted UTE gradient echo and T2‐weighted TSE sequences were used to image IONP samples. U87MG glioblastoma cells bound with arginine‐glycine‐aspartic acid (RGD) peptide and IONP conjugates were scanned using UTE, T1 and T2‐weighted sequences.

Results

Positive contrast was obtained by UTE imaging from IONPs with different core sizes and concentrations. The relative‐contrast‐to‐water ratio of UTE images was three to four times higher than those of T2‐weighted TSE images. The signal intensity increases as the function of the core size and concentration. Positive contrast was also evident in cell samples bound with RGD‐IONPs.

Conclusion

UTE imaging allows for imaging of IONPs and IONP bound tumor cells with positive contrast and provides contrast enhancement and potential quantification of IONPs in molecular imaging applications. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:194–202. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.