bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paxillin phosphorylation by JNK and p38 is required for NFAT activation
Authors: Lee Yu‐Chi , Chang An‐Yun , Lin‐Feng Ming‐Hsien , Tsou Wen‐I , Chiang I‐Hsuan , Lai Ming‐Zong
Published: August 2012

Paxillin is an adaptor protein associated with focal adhesion complex, and is activated by tyrosine phosphorylation through focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and Src kinase. Recent studies reveal that serine phosphorylation of paxillin by JNK and p38 MAPK is essential for cell migration or neurite extension, but their cellular targets remain unclear. In this study, we examined the requirement of paxillin phosphorylation by p38 MAPK or JNK in T‐cell motility and activation using paxillin mutants at the respective phosphorylation sites, Ser85, and Ser178. (S85A)‐paxillin, (S178A)‐paxillin, or (S85A/S178A)‐paxillin inhibited the motility of NIH/3T3 fibroblasts, but did not interfere with T‐cell migration and integrin‐mediated T‐cell adhesion. In contrast, activation of T cells was effectively suppressed by (S85A/S178A)‐paxillin. Transgenic (S85A/S178A)‐paxillin expression inhibited T‐cell proliferation and reduced the production of IL‐2, IFN‐γ, and IL‐4. In searching for signals modulated by (S85A/S178A)‐paxillin, we found that NFAT activation was specifically blocked by (S85A/S178A)‐paxillin. This could be partly attributed to diminished stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) expression and attenuated TCR‐induced Ca2+ influx. Our results demonstrate that dual phosphorylation of paxillin by JNK and p38 MAPK is essential for T‐cell activation and suggest that NFAT is a functional target of the JNK/p38 phosphorylated paxillin.
IFN‐γ receptor deficiency prevents diabetes induction by diabetogenic CD4+, but not CD8+, T cells
Authors: Yi Zuoan , Li Li , Garland Alaina , He Qiuming , Wang Haidong , Katz Jonathan D. , Tisch Roland , Wang Bo
Published: August 2012

IFN‐γ is generally believed to be important in the autoimmune pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, the development of spontaneous β‐cell autoimmunity is unaffected in NOD mice lacking expression of IFN‐γ or the IFN‐γ receptor (IFNγR), bringing into question the role IFN‐γ has in T1D. In the current study, an adoptive transfer model was employed to define the contribution of IFN‐γ in CD4+ versus CD8+ T cell‐mediated β‐cell autoimmunity. NOD.scid mice lacking expression of the IFNγR β chain (NOD.scid.IFNγRBnull) developed diabetes following transfer of β cell‐specific CD8+ T cells alone. In contrast, β cell‐specific CD4+ T cells alone failed to induce diabetes despite significant infiltration of the islets in NOD.scid.IFNγRBnull recipients. The lack of pathogenicity of CD4+ T‐cell effectors was due to the resistance of IFNγR‐deficient β cells to inflammatory cytokine‐induced cell death. On the other hand, CD4+ T cells indirectly promoted β‐cell destruction by providing help to CD8+ T cells in NOD.scid.IFNγRBnull recipients. These results demonstrate that IFN‐γR may play a key role in CD4+ T cell‐mediated β‐cell destruction.
Synthesis of Vinyl Sulfoxide‐Modified Pent‐2‐enofuranosides and Hex‐2‐enopyranosides and Preliminary Studies of Their Reactivity
Authors: Atta Ananta Kumar , Dey Debanjana , Bhaumik Atanu , Manna Chinmoy , Pal Tarun K. , Pathak Tanmaya
Published: July 2012

Vinyl sulfoxide‐modified pent‐2‐enofuranosides and hex‐2‐enopyranosides have been synthesized by using a controlled oxidation of C‐3‐deoxy‐C‐3‐thioaryl furanosides and pyranosides, respectively, followed by mesylation of the C‐2‐hydroxyl group and elimination. In the furanose system, both diastereomers were formed in almost equal ratio, whereas the pyranose ring imposed diastereoselectivity of oxidation of the sulfur atom to produce only Ss isomers in good overall yields. Vinyl sulfoxide‐modified 2‐enofuranosides were treated with NaCH2NO2 to obtain C‐2 branched chain sugars. Furanosyl sulfoxides yielded products that were similar to the adducts obtained by treatment of the corresponding sulfones with nitromethane. The sulfinyl group in thepyranosides influenced the diastereoselectivity of addition to produce adducts that differed from the products obtained from the corresponding vinyl sulfones under similar reaction conditions.
A Sample Selection Strategy for Next‐Generation Sequencing
Authors: Kang Chul Joo , Marjoram Paul
Published: August 2012

Next‐generation sequencing technology provides us with vast amounts of sequence data. It is efficient and cheaper than previous sequencing technologies, but deep resequencing of entire samples is still expensive. Therefore, sensible strategies for choosing subsets of samples to sequence are required. Here we describe an algorithm for selection of a sub‐sample of an existing sample if one has either of two possible goals in mind: maximizing the number of new polymorphic sites that are detected, or improving the efficiency with which the remaining unsequenced individuals can have their types imputed at newly discovered polymorphisms. We then describe a variation on our algorithm that is more focused on detecting rarer variants. We demonstrate the performance of our algorithm using simulated data and data from the 1000 Genomes Project.
Middle Permian sponge–microencruster bioherms in the Akiyoshi Limestone, SW Japan: implications for Late Palaeozoic reef evolution on mid‐Panthalassan atolls
Authors: Nakazawa Tsutomu , Ueno Katsumi , Fujikawa Masayuki
Published: July 2012

Middle Permian lagoonal bioherms are described from mid‐Panthalassan atoll carbonates (Akiyoshi Limestone) in the Akiyoshi accretionary complex, SW Japan. The bioherms are composed of frame‐building sphinctozoan and inozoan sponges, together with encrusting organisms, including chaetetids, Shamovella, calcareous red algae, and other microbes. Of them, sphinctozoan sponges, Shamovella, and microbes (forming microbialites) are the most dominant. Chaetetids, which were predominant in the Early Pennsylvanian but rapidly decreased in the late Moscovian, are also common in these bioherms. Archaeolithoporella and bryozoans are rare, probably due to the low‐energy lagoonal environment.

This sponge–microencruster community replaced the Gzhelian–Asselian Palaeoaplysina–microencruster community on the Akiyoshi atolls during the Sakmarian–Kubergandian interval. This drastic change in the reef‐building community type almost coincides with the rapid deglaciation of the Gondwanan ice sheet and superplume activity beneath the mid‐Panthalassan ocean. The prosperity of calcareous sponges was possibly controlled by environmental factors such as warming and eutrophication after the Gondwanan glaciation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dynamics of T‐cell infiltration during the course of ovarian cancer: The gradual shift from a Th17 effector cell response to a predominant infiltration by regulatory T‐cells
Authors: Fialová Anna , Partlová Simona , Sojka Luděk , Hromádková Hana , Brtnický Tomáš , Fučíková Jitka , Kocián Petr , Rob Lukáš , Bartůňková Jiřina , Špíšek Radek
Published: August 2012

The type of immune cells that are present within the tumor microenvironment can play a crucial role in the survival of patients. However, little is known about the dynamics of the tumor‐infiltrating immune cells during disease progression. We studied the immune cells that infiltrated the tumor tissues of ovarian cancer patients at different stages of disease. The early stages of development of ovarian carcinomas were characterized by a strong Th17 immune response, whereas in stage II patients, recruitment of high numbers of Th1 cells was observed. In disseminated tumors (Stages III–IV), we detected a dominant population of Helios+ activated regulatory T cells (Tregs) along with high numbers of monocytes/macrophages and myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs). Tumor‐infiltrating Tregs had markedly lower expression of CCR4 than circulating Tregs, and the numbers of tumor‐infiltrating Tregs significantly correlated with the levels of CCL22 in ovarian tumor cell culture supernatants, suggesting their recruitment via a CCR4/CCL22 interaction. CCL22 was mainly produced by tumor cells, monocytes/macrophages and mDCs in the primary ovarian tumors, and its expression markedly increased in response to IFNγ. Taken together, the specific recruitment of Tregs, probably triggered by inflammatory stimuli, leads to a significant immune suppression in the advanced stages of ovarian cancer.
MUTYH c.933+3A>C, associated with a severely impaired gene expression, is the first Italian founder mutation in MUTYH‐Associated Polyposis
Authors: Pin Elisa , Pastrello Chiara , Tricarico Rossella , Papi Laura , Quaia Michele , Fornasarig Mara , Carnevali Ileana , Oliani Cristina , Fornasin Alessio , Agostini Marco , Maestro Roberta , Barana Daniela , Aretz Stefan , Genuardi Maurizio , Viel Alessandra
Published: August 2012

MUTYH variants are differently distributed in geographical areas of the world. In MUTYH‐associated polyposis (MAP) patients from North‐Eastern Italy, c.933+3A>C (IVS10+3A>C), a transversion causing an aberrant splicing process, accounts for nearly 1/5 of all mutations. The aim of this study was to verify whether its high frequency in North‐Eastern Italy is due to a founder effect and to clarify its impact on MUTYH transcripts and protein. Haplotype analysis and age estimate performed on members of eleven Italian MAP families and cancer‐free controls provided evidence that c.933+3A>C is a founder mutation originated about 83 generations ago. In addition, the Italian haplotype associated with the c.933+3A>C was also found in German families segregating the same mutation, indicating it had a common origin in Western Europe. Altogether c.933+3A>C and the two common Caucasian mutations p.Tyr179Cys and p.Gly396Asp represent about 60% of MUTYH alterations in MAP patients from North‐Eastern Italy, suggesting the opportunity to perform targeted molecular screening for these variants in the diagnostic setting. Expression analyses performed on lymphoblastoid cell lines supported the notion that MUTYH c.933+3A>C alters splicing causing the synthesis of a non functional protein. However, some primary transcripts escape aberrant splicing, producing traces of full‐length transcript and wild‐type protein in a homozygote; this is in agreement with clinical findings that suggest a relatively mild phenotypic effect for this mutation. Overall, these data, that demonstrate a founder effect and further elucidate the splicing alterations caused by the MUTYH c.933+3A>C mutation, have important implications for genetic counseling and molecular diagnosis of MAP.
Coparenting interactions observed by the prenatal lausanne trilogue play: An Italian replication study
Authors: Simonelli Alessandra , Bighin Mara , de Palo Francesca
Published: August 2012

The infant–parent interaction is the focus of interest on early interactive relational models in the triadic perspective. This approach considers the mother–father–child interaction as the matrix of early competences, which start to develop well before delivery. This theoretical approach has generated an observation paradigm, the Lausanne Trilogue Play (LTP; E. Fivaz‐Depeursinge & A. Corboz‐Warnery, 1999). The aim of the study was to investigate (a) the psychometric characteristics of coding of the prenatal LTP procedure and their comparison with the Lausanne validation studies and (b) the characteristics of triadic interactions during pregnancy. Ninety‐eight nonreferred, primiparous families were recruited at childbirth courses. In addition to validated questionnaires, observational data were collected at the seventh month of pregnancy in the prenatal LTP. The collected data show good reliability of the LTP coding and a consistent factorial structure in line with the Lausanne validation studies (C. Carneiro, A. Corboz‐Warnery, & E. Fivaz‐Depeursinge, 2006; N. Favez et al., 2006). The Structure of the Play and the Intuitive Parenting Behaviors Scales seem the most representative dimensions in the prenatal period. Coparental abilities during pregnancy represent an interactive matrix for the construction of early family relations and may be considered as protective factors in the child's development of early triadic interactive abilities.
Regulation of μ‐opioid type 1 receptors by microRNA134 in dorsal root ganglion neurons following peripheral inflammation
Authors: Ni J. , Gao Y. , Gong S. , Guo S. , Hisamitsu T. , Jiang X.
Published: August 2012

Background

MOR1 is the main transcript of μ‐opioid receptor (MOR) gene, which represents a mandatory molecule for the analgesic effects of opioids and plays an important role in the pathology of inflammatory pain. MicroRNAs (miR) are non‐coding molecules that primarily modulate gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level in various pathophysiological conditions. Based on in silico analysis, an exact match to the seed sequence of miR‐134 was found in 3′‐untranslated region of MOR1. Given the important roles of MOR1 in pain modulation, the purpose of this study is to investigate whether miR‐134 can regulate the MOR1 following allodynia.

Methods

Using Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced chronic inflammatory pain model, we investigated the expression profiles of miR‐134 and MOR1 in rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The relationship of miR‐134 and MOR1 expressions was analysed by linear regression. Luciferase assay was used to examine whether MOR1 was the target of miR‐134.

Results

Our results showed that miR‐134 expression level was inversely related to MOR1 expression. Down‐regulation of miR‐134 and up‐regulation of MOR1 in the same tissues after inflammatory pain were observed. Functional experiments showed that MOR1 expression in SH‐SY5Y cells was up‐regulated after inhibition of miR‐134, indicating that MOR1 was a target of miR‐134.

Conclusions

Our present data suggested a model that miR‐134 participated in CFA‐induced inflammatory pain by balancing the expression of MOR1 in DRGs, which implied that miR‐134 may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of neuropathic pain including inflammation.
Surface‐bound orientated Jagged‐1 enhances osteogenic differentiation of human periodontal ligament‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Osathanon Thanaphum , Ritprajak Patcharee , Nowwarote Nunthawan , Manokawinchoke Jeeranan , Giachelli Cecilia , Pavasant Prasit
Published: July 2012

Notch signaling plays critical roles in various cell types by regulating cell fate determination and differentiation. Here, we investigated the ability to control differentiation of human periodontal ligament derived mesenchymal stem cells using modified surfaces containing the affinity immobilized Notch ligand, Jagged‐1. After seeding human periodontal ligament derived mesenchymal stem cells (HPDLs) on Jagged‐1 modified surfaces, expression of Notch signaling target genes, Hes‐1 and Hey‐1, was higher than those exposed to soluble Jagged‐1 or control surfaces. Upregulation of Notch signaling target genes was attenuated after treatment with the γ secretase inhibitor. Upon seeding the cells on Jagged‐1 immobilized surface and maintained in osteogenic medium, alkaline phosphatase enzymatic activity and mineralization as well as mRNA expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), collagen type I (COL I) and osteopontin (OPN) were significantly increased compared to those of controls. However, osteocalcin (OCN) mRNA expression level was decreased when cells were exposed to Jagged‐1 modified surfaces. HPDLs on Jagged‐1 modified surfaces expressed lower TWIST2 mRNA levels than the control, suggesting that the mechanism whereby Jagged‐1 enhances osteogenic differentiation of HPDLs may occur through Notch signaling and TWIST regulation. In summary, an alteration of biomaterial interface using Notch ligands illustrates a promising system to control HPDLs differentiation toward osteogenic lineage. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
Biomaterials immobilized with chitosan for rechargeable antimicrobial drug delivery
Authors: Lv Wei , Luo Jie , Deng Ying , Sun Yuyu
Published: August 2012

Microbial contamination on medical device material surfaces causes serious problems including device‐related infections. Here we report a new strategy to produce rechargeable antimicrobial biomaterial surfaces to address the issue. Methacrylic acid (MAA) was grafted onto the surfaces of polyurethane (PU), a widely used biomaterial with excellent biological and mechanical properties. Chitosan was covalently bonded onto the MAA‐grafted surfaces. The new chitosan‐containing PU strongly bound and then slowed release anionic antibiotics (e.g., rifampin) for weeks to months to kill microbes. The released drug could be recharged with the same or a different class of drugs to further extend antimicrobial duration. Also, the new surfaces demonstrated good biocompatibility against mammal cells, pointing to great potentials for a wide range of biomedical applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
Purification and cytotoxicity of tag‐free bioengineered spider silk proteins
Authors: Dams‐Kozlowska Hanna , Majer Agnieszka , Tomasiewicz Paulina , Lozinska Jolanta , Kaplan David L. , Mackiewicz Andrzej
Published: August 2012

Bioengineered spider silk‐like proteins can serve as biomaterials for various biomedical applications. These proteins can be assembled in several morphological forms such as films, microcapsules, spheres, fibers, gels, and scaffolds. However, crucial points for recombinant spider silks for human use are toxicity and immunogenicity. To assess this issue, two bioengineered spider silk proteins composed of different numbers of repetitive motifs of the consensus repeats fromspidroin‐1fromNephila clavipes(15X and 6X) were cloned and expressed inEscherichia coli. The proteins were free of tag sequence and were purified using two methods based on (1) thermal and (2) organic acid resistance of the spider silks. The soluble spider silk proteins were not cytotoxic and did not activate macrophages over a wide range of concentrations, except when present at the highest concentration. Films made of the different silk variants supported the growth of the cells. Based on these data, and as the biodegradation rate of silk is very slow, the bioengineered spider silks are presumed safe biomaterials for biomedical applications. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A, 2013.
In vitro response of osteoarthritic chondrocytes and fibroblast‐like synoviocytes to a 500–730 kDa hyaluronan amide derivative
Authors: Brun Paola , Zavan Barbara , Vindigni Vincenzo , Schiavinato Antonella , Pozzuoli Assunta , Iacobellis Claudio , Abatangelo Giovanni
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of native hyaluronan (HA) with that of its hexadecylamide derivative (HYADD) on proliferation of fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) and chondrocytes. The production of inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines was also analyzed in FLS cultures. The proliferation of osteoarthritis (OA) chondrocytes was enhanced when cells were treated with 0.5–1.5 mg mL−1 of HA or HYADD®4‐G. This effect was completely suppressed by the anti‐CD44 antibody. At 0.5 to 1 mg mL−1, HA and HYADD®4‐G did not influence the proliferation of normal or pathological FLS; however, at the higher concentration (1.5 mg mL−1), HYADD®4‐G did significantly inhibit cell proliferation. As to effects on inflammation, a significant increase in the expression of the IL‐10 gene was observed when FLS were pretreated with tumor necrosis factor alpha and then cultured in the presence of 0.5 mg mL−1 HYADD® 4‐G or HA. The effects of HA derivatives on FLS proliferation and production of anti‐inflammatory cytokines indicate that they may be of therapeutic benefit in OA. The longer residence time in the joint cavity, the increased viscoelasticity, and the anti‐inflammatory potential of HYADD®4‐G make it a better candidate than native HA for OA therapy. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2012.
Impaired bone microarchitecture at the distal radius in older men with low muscle mass and grip strength: The STRAMBO study
Authors: Szulc Pawel , Blaizot Stéphanie , Boutroy Stephanie , Vilayphiou Nicolas , Boonen Steven , Chapurlat Roland
Published: August 2012

The aim was to study the association between bone microarchitecture and muscle mass and strength in older men. Volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) and bone microarchitecture were assessed in 810 men aged ≥60 years at the distal radius by high-resolution peripheral computed tomography (HR-pQCT). Areal bone mineral density (aBMD) and appendicular muscle mass (ASM) were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Relative ASM of the upper limbs (RASM-u.l.) was calculated as ASM of the upper limbs/(height)2. Grip strength was measured by dynanometry. In multivariable models, men in the lowest RASM-u.l. quartile had lower cross-sectional area (CSA), cortical area (Ct.Ar), cortical thickness (Ct.Th), and trabecular area (Tb.Ar) at distal radius compared with men in the highest quartile. The trends remained significant after adjustment for grip strength. Men in the lowest quartile of the normalized grip strength (grip strength/[height]2) had lower aBMD, total vBMD, Ct.Ar, Ct.Th, Tb.vBMD, and Tb.N, and higher Tb.Sp and Tb.Sp.SD. The associations for Ct.Ar, total vBMD, Ct.Th, Tb.vBMD, and Tb.Sp remained significant after adjustment for RASM-u.l. In the models including RASM-u.l. and normalized grip strength, CSA and Tb.Ar were associated with RASM-u.l. but not with the strength. Lower Ct.Th, Tb.vBMD, and Tb.N were associated with lower grip strength but not with RASM-u.l. Lower Ct.Ar was associated with lower grip strength and with lower RASM-u.l. In conclusion, in older men, low RASM-u.l. and low grip strength are associated with poor cortical and trabecular microarchitecture partly independently of each other, after adjustment for confounders. © 2013 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Optimal hydrodynamic design of tubular photobioreactors
Authors: Wongluang Pinyaporn , Chisti Yusuf , Srinophakun Thongchai
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND

Tubular photobioreactors are being considered for growing microalgae to produce renewable fuel oils via photosynthesis. Such bioreactors need to be highly energy efficient, or the energy captured in the fuel oil through photosynthesis will barely compensate for the fossil energy required to operate the photobioreactor.

RESULTS

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling of the flow in a conventional tubular loop photobioreactor is used to reveal the existence of substantial dead zones in the typically used U‐bends and 90° elbows. Fluid circulation in these dead zones leads to increased energy consumption, formation of deposits, wall growth and potentially reduced productivity. Alternative designs of U‐bends and 90° elbows are evaluated by CFD modeling. Optimal design of a U‐bend and a 90° elbow are identified and shown to substantially reduce the development of dead zones. Use of the proposed new configurations of bends is shown to reduce the energy consumption for fluid circulation in the loop by up to 15% relative to a conventionally designed tubular loop photobioreactor, for turbulent flow of seawater.

CONCLUSION

For a typical tubular loop made of a tube of 0.1 m in diameter, the optimal configuration of a U‐bend had a radius of curvature of 0.35 m and an angle of the arc of 210°. The optimal configuration of a 90° elbow was found to have a radius of curvature of 0.3 m. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Microflora associated with primary endodontic infections: Correlations among sem evaluation, clinical features, and radiographic findings
Authors: Razera Baldasso Flávia Emi , Stürmer Caroline Patta , Luisi Simone Bonato , Rodrigues Petruzzi Maria Noel Marzano , SCARPARO Roberta Kochenborger , Figueiredo José Antônio Poli De
Published: August 2012

The aim of the present study was to characterize, by means of SEM, primary endodontic infections and to correlate with clinical and radiographic findings. Twelve (12) human extracted teeth (19 roots) presenting primary endodontic infection were examined. SEM qualitative observations of bacterial and defense cells, their features and distribution within the root canal lumen and root dentine were recorded for association with clinical and radiographic tabled data. Although a direct correlation between biofilm composition and clinical/radiographic findings was not established, structural organization and distribution of the biofilm, as well as the characteristics of host response, could be easily related to those features. Bacterial biofilm was predominant at the apical third. Symptomatic apical periodontitis was related to presence of bacterial biofilm all thirds. Defense cells could be seen in the apical third of some samples. These cells were present in all thirds in some of the cases with open cavities. The correlations performed in this study allowed a better understanding of the picture of primary endodontic infection, host response and relevant clinical features. The combined use of scanning electron microscopy with clinical and radiographic evaluation has the potential to overcome some limits of the current knowledge related to pulpal and periapical diseases, providing important insights for improving treatment strategies. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Fire Containment in Planar Graphs
Authors: Esperet Louis , van den Heuvel Jan , Maffray Frédéric , Sipma Félix
Published: August 2012

In a graph G, a fire starts at some vertex. At every time step, firefighters can protect up to k vertices, and then the fire spreads to all unprotected neighbors. The k‐surviving rate of G is the expectation of the proportion of vertices that can be saved from the fire, if the starting vertex of the fire is chosen uniformly at random. For a given class of graphs , we are interested in the minimum value k such that for some constant and all , (i.e., such that linearly many vertices are expected to be saved in every graph from ). In this note, we prove that for planar graphs this minimum value is at most 4, and that it is precisely 2 for triangle‐free planar graphs.
On Serial Symmetric Exchanges of Matroid Bases
Authors: Kotlar Daniel , Ziv Ran
Published: July 2012

We study some properties of a serial (i.e., one‐by‐one) symmetric exchange of elements of two disjoint bases of a matroid. We show that any two elements of one base have a serial symmetric exchange with some two elements of the other base. As a result, we obtain that any two disjoint bases in a matroid of rank 4 have a full serial symmetric exchange
Direct radiofluorination of [18F]MH.MZ for 5‐HT2A receptor molecular imaging with PET
Authors: Herth Matthias M. , Kramer Vasko , Gillings Nic , Rösch Frank , Knudsen Gitte M.
Published: August 2012

Imaging the serotonin 2A neuroreceptor with positron emission tomography has been carried out with [11C]MDL 100907 and [18F]altanserin for years. Recently, the MDL 100907 analogue [18F]MH.MZ was developed by combining the increased selectivity profile of MDL 100907 and the favourable radiophysical properties of fluorine‐18. Here, we want to report the synthesis of [18F]MH.MZ via direct radiofluorination. Unfortunately, the direct radiofluorination did not have any significant benefits over the indirect labelling method. This is mainly because the precursor for the direct labelling approach is not completely stable and slowly decomposes. However, only one HPLC separation is necessary for the direct 18F‐nucleophilic labelling procedure, and accordingly, automation is easier. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Susceptibility phase imaging with improved image contrast using moving window phase gradient fitting and minimal filtering
Authors: Walsh Andrew J. , Eissa Amir , Blevins Gregg , Wilman Alan H.
Published: August 2012

Purpose:

To enhance image contrast in susceptibility phase imaging using a new method of background phase removal.

Materials and Methods:

A background phase removal method is proposed that uses the spatial gradient of the raw phase image to perform a moving window third‐order local polynomial estimation and correction of the raw phase image followed by minimal high pass filtering. The method is demonstrated in simulation, 10 healthy volunteers, and 5 multiple sclerosis patients in comparison to a standard phase filtering approach.

Results:

Compared to standard phase filtering, the new method increased phase contrast with local background tissue in subcortical gray matter, cortical gray matter, and multiple sclerosis lesions by 67% ± 33%, 13% ± 7%, and 48% ± 19%, respectively (95% confidence interval). In addition, the new method removed more phase wraps in areas of rapidly changing background phase.

Conclusion:

Local phase gradient fitting combined with minimal high pass filtering provides better tissue depiction and more accurate phase quantification than standard filtering. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012; 36:1460–1469. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The chronostratigraphy of a quaternary sequence at the distal part of the nile littoral cell, Haifa Bay, Israel
Authors: Avnaim‐Katav Simona , Almogi‐Labin Ahuva , Sandler Amir , Sivan Dorit , Porat Naomi , Matmon Ari
Published: August 2012

The current detailed chronostratigraphic framework of the last 1 Ma of an eastern Mediterranean sequence (Haifa Bay, Israel) aims to examine the relative roles of sea‐level changes, climate and tectonics. Seven continuous marine cores, up to ∼120 m long, were recovered from shallow water depths. The cores were dated by optically stimulated luminescence, 14C, magnetostratigraphy, 230Th/234U, 26Al/10Be, occurrence of index fossils and correlated to the global sea‐level curve and Marine Isotope Stages (MIS). The sedimentary sequence accumulated during the last ca. 1.0 Ma consists of 21 transgression–regression units with hiatuses between them. Five marine/terrestrial cycles, which occur in the lower part of the sequence, are attributed to the Jaramillo subchron and the Brunhes–Matuyama boundary, and correspond to MIS 29–21. The top ∼50 m includes three sedimentary cycles deposited in the last ca. 400 ka. The regressive phases during this interval correspond to Glacial MIS 8, 6 and 2, while the transgressions correspond to Interglacial MIS 11, 7, 5 and 1. Thus, for the first time, this study documents the longest Quaternary succession dated so far in a key area of the Levant, sensitive to global history of sea‐level changes and glacial/interglacial fluctuations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sensory, yield and quality differences between organically and conventionally grown winter wheat
Authors: Arncken Christine M , Mäder Paul , Mayer Jochen , Weibel Franco P
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Consumers expect organic produce to have higher environmental, health and sensory related qualities than conventional produce. In order to test sensory differences between bio‐dynamically, bio‐organically and conventionally grown winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L., cv. Runal), we performed double‐blinded triangle tests with two panels on dry wholemeal flour from the harvest years 2006, 2007 and 2009 and from two field replicates of the ‘DOK’ long‐term farming system comparison field trial near Basel, Switzerland. Yield and quality parameters were also assessed.

RESULTS: Significant farming system effects were found for yield (up to 42% reduction in the organic system), thousand kernel weight, hectolitre weight and crude protein content across the three years. In the triangle tests one out of 12 pair‐wise farming system comparisons (PFSCs) on wholemeal flour made from the different wheat samples showed significant sensory differentiation (between bio‐dynamically and conventionally grown wheat). When all data from the three harvest years and two panels were aggregated, a statistically significant effect (P = 0.045) of PFSCs on the number of correct answers became evident.

CONCLUSIONS: Although testing of dry wholemeal flour was very challenging for panellists, we were able to show that sensory differences between farming systems can occur. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Disturbance factors influencing greater sage‐grouse lek abandonment in north‐central Wyoming
Authors: Hess Jennifer E. , Beck Jeffrey L.
Published: July 2012

Detecting the disappearance of active leks is the most efficient way to determine large declines in greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) populations; thus, understanding factors that influence lek abandonment is critical. We evaluated factors that may have influenced the probability of sage‐grouse lek abandonment in the Bighorn Basin (BHB) of north‐central Wyoming from 1980 to 2009. Our objective was to examine lek abandonment based on landscape characteristics that explain differences between occupied and unoccupied leks. We evaluated lek abandonment from 144 occupied and 39 unoccupied leks from the Wyoming Game and Fish Department lek database with sufficient data for our 30‐year analysis. We conducted our analysis with binary logistic regression using landscape predictor variables obtained from geographic coverages at 5 scales (1.0‐, 3.2‐, 4.0‐, 5.0‐, and 6.4‐km radii around leks) to evaluate how these disturbances have influenced lek abandonment. Coverages included anthropogenic characteristics such as agricultural development, oil and gas development, prescribed burned treatments, and roads; and environmental characteristics such as vegetation attributes and wildfire. Our combined model included the number of oil and gas wells in a 1.0‐km radius, percent area of wildfire in a 1.0‐km radius, and variability in shrub height in a 1.0‐km radius around sage‐grouse leks. Abandoned (unoccupied) leks had 1.1‐times the variability of shrub height in a 1.0‐km radius, 3.1‐times the percentage of wildfire in a 1.0‐km radius, and 10.3‐times the number of oil and gas wells in a 1.0‐km radius compared to occupied leks. The model‐averaged odds of lek persistence with every 1 unit increase in oil and gas wells within a 1.0‐km radius was 0.66 (90% CI: 0.37–0.94), odds with every 1% increase in wildfire in a 1.0‐km radius was 0.99 (90% CI: 0.85–1.12), and odds with every 1 unit increase in the standard deviation of shrub height within a 1.0‐km radius around a lek was 0.77 (90% CI: 0.45–1.08). Because the 90% confidence intervals around the odds ratios of wells did not overlap 1.0, we suggest this predictor variable was most influential in our model‐averaged estimates. The BHB has lower developed reserves of oil and gas than many other regions; however, our study supports findings from other studies that demonstrate energy development increases lek abandonment. Our findings indicate conservation efforts should be focused on minimizing well development and implementing wildfire suppression tactics near active sage‐grouse leks. © 2012 The Wildlife Society.
Safety analysis of vagal nerve stimulation for continuous nerve monitoring during thyroid surgery
Authors: Friedrich Colin , Ulmer Christoph , Rieber Fabian , Kern Eva , Kohler Andrea , Schymik Karolina , Thon Klaus‐Peter , Lamadé Wolfram
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM) facilitates recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) identification, but various studies affirm virtually unchanged postoperative RLN palsy rates. Several authors meanwhile suggest continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring (CIONM) via vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) to improve RLN protection. However, knowledge of side effects of electrical VNS derives mainly from its therapeutic applications in the fields of neurology and psychiatry. The presented study was conducted to further evaluate the safety of CIONM and identify possible VNS related side effects.

Study Design:

Prospective nonrandomized controlled trail.

Methods:

Forty patients scheduled for thyroid or parathyroid surgery were enrolled in the trail. The intervention group consisted of 22 patients receiving VNS for CIONM. Eighteen patients were operated on with routine IONM. To assess VNS‐induced effects on the autonomic nervous system (ANS), heart rate variability analysis (HRVA) was applied. Serum cytokine levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α were monitored to evaluate immunomodulatory effects of VNS.

Results:

HRVA revealed significantly increased vagal activity during CIONM. This parasympathetic predominance was not countered by the sympathetic nervous system. Despite a significant increase of vagal tone, no hemodynamic events occurred; in fact, no significant changes in median heart rate or in median arterial blood pressure were detected. Even though anti‐inflammatory effects of VNS have been reported, no attenuation of cytokine release of TNF‐α was measured.

Conclusions:

VNS for CIONM resulted in increased vagal activity assessable via HRVA. The increased parasympathetic tone affected neither hemodynamics nor levels of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF‐α. VNS for CIONM appears safe with the applied settings. Laryngoscope, 2012
Endoscopic total arytenoidectomy for bilateral abductor vocal fold paralysis: A new flap technique and personal experience with 50 cases
Authors: Yılmaz Taner
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Bilateral vocal fold paralysis is a very serious complication of thyroid surgery, with resulting airway obstruction, aspiration, swallowing disturbance, and voice change. When treated with endoscopic total arytenoidectomy, airway obstruction may be relieved; however, there are concerns that voice may be seriously and irreversibly damaged and aspiration may become a permanent problem.

Study Design:

Prospective, cohort study.

Methods:

Fifty patients with bilateral vocal fold paralysis underwent endoscopic total arytenoidectomy, medially based mucosal advancement flap, and vocal fold lateralization with endoscopic microsuture. Pre‐ and postoperative evaluations included Voice Handicap Index (VHI‐30), aerodynamic and acoustic analysis, subjective comparison of pre‐ and postoperative voice by phoniatrician, speech intensity measurement, breathing ability evaluation, and functional outcome swallowing scale.

Results:

All VHI‐30 results, all aerodynamic analysis results, and all acoustic results (except F0) worsened significantly after surgery (P < .05). Subjective comparison of pre‐ and postoperative voice by phoniatrician revealed somewhat worse voice (94%). Mean speech intensity decreased from 65 dB to 60 dB postoperatively (P < .05). Postoperative breathing ability was significantly better (90%). The pre‐ and postoperative functional outcome swallowing scales were not significantly different (P > .05).

Conclusions:

Endoscopic total arytenoidectomy is still a very successful static surgical option for bilateral vocal fold paralysis. It is performed without a tracheotomy, but may be required in some patients postoperatively. Laser is not a requirement for it, and it can easily be done with cold instruments. It attains comfortable airway with acceptable voice. Postoperatively, it does not increase aspiration significantly. It has good long‐term results. Laryngoscope, 2012
A multicenter, prospective, clinical trial evaluating a novel adhesive baseplate (Provox StabiliBase) for peristomal attachment of postlaryngectomy pulmonary and voice rehabilitation devices
Authors: Hilgers Frans J. M. , Dirven Richard , Wouters Yannick , Jacobi Irene , Marres Henri A. M. , van den Brekel Michiel W. M.
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Assessment of a novel adhesive baseplate (Provox StabiliBase) for heat and moisture exchanger (HME) and/or automatic speaking valve (ASV) application.

Study Design:

Prospective, clinical, multicenter trial.

Methods:

This was a trial in laryngectomized patients comparing their usual adhesive with the trial adhesive. Primary outcome measure was overall patient preference; additional outcome parameters possibly explaining patients' preferences were 1) patient tolerance and preference with respect to daily handling of the adhesive; 2) adhesive lifespan, and 3) voice and speech with the adhesives. Study specific questionnaires, visual analog scales, patients' diaries, and stoma assessments were used for data collection.

Results:

In total, 58 of the 65 laryngectomized individuals entered in the study completed the trial. Patients' overall preference for the new device was high (76%; P < .001). Significantly better performance was found for the trial adhesive with respect to ease of application (P = .034), fit (P < .001), and air leakage through the adhesive (P < .001). Comfort and stoma depth correlated weakly (r = 0.297; P = .024; deeper stoma–more comfort with StabiliBase). The adhesive lifespan with HME is significantly increased (1.7 times and 15.7 hours‐plus airtight use; P < .001). This longer lifespan coincided with somewhat increased dirtying of the adhesive (P = .02). There were no serious adverse events.

Conclusions:

The StabiliBase adhesive for peristomal attachment of HMEs and/or ASVs was preferred by 76% of study participants and showed a promising prolonged lifespan. This new device further increases the options for stoma attachment in laryngectomized individuals, and subsequently the availability of optimal voice and pulmonary rehabilitation for a larger proportion of patients. Laryngoscope, 2012
Mapping the frontal sinus ostia using virtual endoscopy
Authors: Dearking Amy C. , Pallanch John F.
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To determine the relative location of the frontal sinus opening to other frontal cells using virtual endoscopy; and to assess whether the relative location of the frontal sinus ostium can be predicted.

Study Design:

Retrospective analysis of high‐resolution computed tomography scans from 50 adult patients without frontal sinus disease or previous sinus surgery.

Methods:

Using virtual endoscopy software, 100 frontal recesses were mapped for the presence and relative position of the frontal sinus ostium to the following cells: agger nasi (ANC); frontal bullar; frontal types 1, 2, and 3; supraorbital ethmoid; suprabullar; and intersinus septal cells.

Results:

ANC and frontal type 3 cells were present in 92% and 45% of frontal recesses, respectively. All other cell types had a prevalence of ≤25%. Fifty percent of recesses had two rows of ostia anterior to posterior (AP), and the frontal opening was anterior in 52%. When there were three rows of cells AP (39%), the frontal opening was in the center in 64% of cases. Thirty‐five percent of recesses had two rows of ostia medial to lateral (ML), and the frontal opening was medial 80% of the time. When there were three rows of openings ML (45%), the frontal opening was in the center 56% of the time.

Conclusions:

The frontal sinus recess is variable and complex. Virtual endoscopy can be used to analyze the frontal recess and assist in presurgical planning. Although there is variability in the ostial configuration present in the frontal recess, the probable position of the frontal sinus ostium can be predicted. Laryngoscope, 2012
The importance of ulceration of cutaneous melanoma of the head and neck: A comparison of ear (pinna) and nonear sites
Authors: Augenstein Adam C. , Capello Zachary J. , Little Jarrod A. , McMasters Kelly M. , Bumpous Jeffrey M.
Published: August 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To compare clinicopathologic and prognostic factors associated with ear melanomas and nonear melanomas of the head and neck (H&N).

Study Design:

Post hoc analysis of the database from a multi‐institutional, prospective, randomized study.

Methods:

Clinicopathologic factors were assessed and correlated with survival and recurrence. Univariate and multivariate analysis of prognostic factors affecting disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were performed.

Results:

Of 405 patients with H&N melanomas ≥1.0 mm Breslow thickness, 59 patients had melanomas of the ear. Most were Caucasian (96.6%) males (79.7%) with a mean age of 52 years. The mean Breslow thickness was 2.5 mm; 34.5% had signs of ulceration. Sentinel lymph node (SLN) positivity was seen in 7.1%. The incidence of locoregional and distant recurrence were similar. OS for ear melanoma was significantly impacted by ulceration status (P = .013), whereas both ulceration and SLN positivity predicted survival in nonear melanoma (P < .001 and P = .015, respectively). Thicker melanomas in the nonear group demonstrated significantly decreased DFS, whereas other factors in both groups lost their predictive value (P = .035).

Conclusions:

In the Sunbelt Melanoma Trial, ulceration was the strongest predictor of overall survival in melanoma of the ear. Ulceration and SLN status correlated with poorer OS in nonear melanoma of the H&N, whereas increasing depth correlated with poorer DFS in those same patients. Recurrence and survival were not impacted by anatomic site, but the prognostic significance of ulceration, thickness, and SLN status in the H&N may vary with the site of the melanoma. Laryngoscope, 2012
Checking the harness: Safety for living liver donors
Authors: Simpson Mary Ann , Pomfret Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2012

Key Points

1. Expertise in hepatobiliary surgery.

2. Donor selection criteria.

3. Selective liver biopsy in donors.

4. Accurate determination of hepatic volumes and anatomy.

5. Extent of donor hepatectomy.

6. Donor psychosocial evaluation.

7. Catastrophic events.

8. Long-term follow up. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Poly(ethylene imine)s as Antimicrobial Agents with Selective Activity
Authors: Gibney Katherine A. , Sovadinova Iva , Lopez Analette I. , Urban Michael , Ridgway Zachary , Caputo Gregory A. , Kuroda Kenichi
Published: August 2012

We report the structure–activity relationship in the antimicrobial activity of linear and branched poly(ethylene imine)s (L‐ and B‐PEIs) with a range of molecular weights (MWs) (500–12 000). Both L‐ and B‐PEIs displayed enhanced activity against Staphylococcus aureus over Escherichia coli. Both B‐ and L‐PEIs did not cause any significant permeabilization of E. coli cytoplasmic membrane. L‐PEIs induced depolarization of S. aureus membrane although B‐PEIs did not. The low MW B‐PEIs caused little or no hemolysis while L‐PEIs are hemolytic. The low MW B‐PEIs are less cytotoxic to human HEp‐2 cells than other PEIs. However, they induced significant cell viability reduction after 24 h incubation. The results presented here highlight the interplay between polymer size and structure on activity.

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Conjectures of Rado and Chang and special Aronszajn trees
Authors: Todorčević Stevo , Torres Pérez Víctor
Published: August 2012

We show that both Rado's Conjecture and strong Chang's Conjecture imply that there are no special ℵ2‐Aronszajn trees if the Continuum Hypothesis fails. We give similar result for trees of higher heights and we also investigate the influence of Rado's Conjecture on square sequences.
Percolated Network Structure Formation and Rheological Properties in Nylon 6/Clay Nanocomposites
Authors: Mizuno Chihiro , John Baiju , Okamoto Masami
Published: August 2012

To understand the effect of the percolated clay network structure formed by the exfoliated clay layers in nanocomposites, the clay network structure in nylon‐6‐based nanocomposites is characterized using TEM and FFT analyses. A MMT volume fraction between 0.013 and 0.014 is the percolation threshold for strong network formation. The volume spanning MMT network leads to a very high flow activation energy as compared with that of neat nylon 6, resulting in the pseudo‐solid like response under molten state in N6CNs. A canonical NVT‐MD simulation was conducted in the system made up by nylon 6 molecules/Si(OH)4 molecules. The formation of the strong interfacial interaction between nylon 6 molecules and Si(OH)4 molecules induced by OH groups is suggested.

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