bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Netrin-1 Hyperexpression in Mouse Brain Promotes Angiogenesis and Long-Term Neurological Recovery After Transient Focal Ischemia
Authors: Lu Haiyan , Wang Yongting , He Xiaosong , Yuan Falei , Lin Xiaojie , Xie Bohua , Tang Guanghui , Huang Jun , Tang Yaohui , Jin Kunlin , Chen Shengdi , Yang Guo-Yuan
Published: January 2012

Background and Purpose—

Netrin-1 (NT-1) stimulates endothelial cell proliferation and migration in vitro and promotes focal neovascularization in the adult brain in vivo. This in vivo study in mice investigated the effect of NT-1 hyperexpression on focal angiogenesis and long-term functional outcome after transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO).

Methods—

Adeno-associated viral vectors carrying either the NT-1 gene (AAV–NT-1) or GFP (AAV-GFP) were generated and injected into the brains of separate groups of 93 mice. Seven days later, tMCAO followed by 7–28 days of reperfusion were carried out. Histological outcomes and behavioral deficits were quantified 7–28 days after tMCAO. Small cerebral vessel network and angiogenesis were assessed 28 days after tMCAO, using synchrotron radiation microangiography and immunohistochemistry.

Results—

Western blot and immunohistochemistry showed that on the day of tMCAO, NT-1 hyperexpression had been achieved in both normal and ischemic hemispheres. Immunofluorescence imaging showed that NT-1 expression was primarily in neurons and astrocytes. Ischemia-induced infarction in the NT-1 hyperexpression group was attenuated in comparison to saline or AAV-GFP–treated groups (
P
<0.01). Similarly, neurological deficits were greatly improved in AAV–NT-1–treated mice compared with mice in saline or AAV-GFP–treated groups (
P
<0.05). In addition, angiogenesis was increased in AAV–NT-1–treated mice compared with the other 2 groups (
P
<0.05). In vivo synchrotron radiation microangiography 28 days after tMCAO revealed more branches in AAV–NT-1–treated mice than in other groups.

Conclusions—

AAV–NT-1 induced NT-1 hyperexpression before tMCAO reduced infarct size, enhanced neovascularization, and improved long-term functional recovery.
Impacts of a wildfire on the mortality rate and small-scale movements of a Hermann's tortoise Testudo hermanni hermanni population in southeastern France
Authors: Couturier Thibaut , Guérette Emmanuelle , Cheylan Marc , Besnard Aurélien
Published: January 2012

Because they have high longevity and a weak dispersal capacity, chelonians are known to be highly impacted by fire. We investigated the immediate demographic consequences of a wildfire occurring in 2009 on a population of Hermann's tortoises Testudo hermanni in the Plaine des Maures in southeastern France using the multistate capture–recapture method. Over two years (2009 and 2010), 108 adult individuals were marked. Survival probability was higher in the unburned (0.99) than in the burned area (0.43). The inter-annual transition probability from the burned to the unburned area was high (0.72). These results show that fire affects survival by immediately killing individuals and by inducing small-scale movements from burned to unburned areas.
Genetic diversity of the European pond turtle (Emys orbicularis) in the South-West region of Hungary – first results
Authors: Jeney Zsigmond , Molnár Marcell , Magyary István , Lehoczky István , Zsolnai Attila , Molnár Tamás , Benedek Ildikó
Published: January 2012

A set of five polymorphic microsatellite markers developed in Emydoidea blandingii was characterized for crossspecies amplification in the European pond turtle, Emys orbicularis. The markers were tested for polymorphism in a total of 155 turtles sampled in four natural habitats in the Danube-Drava National Park, South-West Hungary in order to determine the genetic diversity of European pond turtle populations and to check the functionality of existing ecological corridors in the region. The number of alleles varied from 5 to 24. Observed heterozygosity was moderate (0.43-0.55), while the level for expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.76 to 0.80. Significant heterozygote deficit was found in the populations accompanied by a low degree of genetic differentiation (FST ranges from 0.0166 to 0.0652). Wahlund effect was demonstrated in two populations. The ecological corridor between two water catchment areas (Lake Balaton and Drava River) fulfils its role only partially.
Reflections and Legal Analysis of the Relationship between “Religious Government and Human Rights” from the Perspective of Grand Ayatullāh Muntazirī
Authors: Hajatpour Reza
Published: January 2012

This article discusses the book "Religious Government and Human Rights" (Hukūmat-i dīn-i wa huqūq-i insān) by the Shiite Grand Ayatullāh Husayn 'Alī Muntazirī (1922-2009). In this work, he explicitly tackles central issues of religious government and discusses its incongruity with human rights. He advocates the recognition of human rights along general lines, and positions himself firmly against absolutist Islamic rule, thereby undermining the concept of religious authority currently prevalent in the Islamic Republic. Muntazirī justifies these moves by applying the traditional method of jurisprudence (usūl al-fiqh), calls for re-arranging the system of how sections of the law are structured and even for the possibility of adding entirely new articles. Iğtihād for him is the renewal of jurisprudence in accordance with the Zeitgeist, with changing social conditions and with scientific discoveries. Jurisprudence, in contrast to revelation, is the work of man and can therefore be questioned and adapted in the light of the principles of reason ('aql). Muntazirī calls for a fresh review of jurisprudence based on the liberal human rights of our time. He also stresses the permanent and universal character of these natural and fundamental rights, which apply in all situations and under all conditions despite cultural and religious differences. For Muntazirī, these fundamental rights are deduced from the very essence of man's existence (insāniyat-i insān), which constitutes their only legitimate source. The roots for Muntazirī's oppositional and critical stance towards the Islamic Republic and its despotic system of rule lie first and foremost in his negative personal experiences with the system. Gradually, these gave way to a critical and more liberal concept of religion and political authority in his thought.
The Early Days of the European External Action Service: A Practitioner’s View
Authors: Spence David
Published: January 2012

Summary

The proposal to create the European External Action Service (EEAS) seemed to be an acceptance by the European Union’s political elites that, in the post-Westphalian world, more attention needed to be given to collective European diplomacy rather than individual national diplomacy. Yet there was no guarantee that existing officials, whether from EU institutions or from the EU member states, would easily accept the related diplomatic norms and values. Melding different epistemic communities into one effective new diplomatic community is not a foregone conclusion. Europe’s new diplomatic service ‘an sich’ is not a diplomatic service ‘für sich’. While creating a team with a spirit of unity was the formal goal, ambiguities in the Lisbon Treaty’s articles on the EEAS have facilitated a major reassertion of bureaucratic politics, which are destined to keep Westphalian diplomacy alive and to produce even more turf battles and complexity. The mind-sets of the component parts of the EEAS are so diverse that, without serious discussion of these issues and concentrated training, creating a new European diplomacy will be difficult.
Potential Vorticity Accumulation Following Atmospheric Kelvin Waves in the Active Convective Region of the MJO
Authors: MacRitchie Kyle , Roundy Paul E.
Published: January 2012

Previous works have shown that most of the rainfall embedded within the Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO) occurs in large eastward-moving envelopes of enhanced convection known as super cloud clusters. Many of these superclusters have been identified as convectively coupled Kelvin waves. In this work, a simple composite-averaging technique diagnoses the linear and nonlinear contributions to MJO potential vorticity (PV) structure by convection collocated with Kelvin waves. Results demonstrate that PV is generated coincident with active convection in Kelvin waves, but that this PV remains in the environment after Kelvin wave passage and becomes part of the structure of the MJO. Analysis of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) rainfall suggests that 62% of the total rainfall within the MJO occurs within the active convective phases of the Kelvin waves (88% higher than the rain rate that occurs outside of the Kelvin waves), supporting the hypothesis that diabatic heating in cloud clusters embedded within the Kelvin waves generates this PV.
Influence of Circulation Patterns on Temperature Behavior at the Regional Scale: A Case Study Investigated via Neural Network Modeling
Authors: Pasini Antonello , Langone Rocco
Published: January 2012

An analysis of the influence of circulation patterns on temperature changes in an extended Italian Alpine area has been performed by nonlinear methods and neural network modeling. This leads to the clarification of the roles of these patterns in the various seasons and permits the development of models that are able to reconstruct in a satisfactory manner the behavior of temperature anomalies in the second half of the twentieth century in this limited region. This nonlinear analysis shows that the role of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) is probably overestimated, and that European blocking and the Scandinavian pattern should be considered as prime candidates as temperature drivers in this area.
Social Justice Leadership as Praxis
Authors: Furman Gail
Published: January 2012

Purpose: The purpose of this article is to propose a conceptual framework for social justice leadership as praxis and to explore the implications of this framework for leadership preparation programs. Conceptual Argument: The conceptual framework for social justice leadership is grounded in a review of literature and organized around three central concepts. First, leadership for social justice is conceived as a praxis, in the Freireian sense, involving both reflection and action. Second, leadership for social justice spans several dimensions, which serve as arenas for this praxis. These dimensions include the personal, interpersonal, communal, systemic, and ecological. Third, each dimension within the framework requires the development of capacities on the part of the leader, capacities for both reflection and action. The author argues that the central purpose of leadership preparation programs is to develop these capacities in aspiring school leaders. Implications: At present, the literature on social justice leadership and most preparation programs address some of the capacities for social justice leadership well (e.g., critical consciousness about social justice issues) but others poorly or not at all (e.g., the actual skills needed for leadership praxis). The praxis framework proposed in this article facilitates a more detailed and comprehensive analysis of the capacities needed by contemporary school leaders working for social justice and therefore how preparation programs might be designed and delivered.
Examining the Effects of Gifted Programming in Mathematics and Reading Using the ECLS-K
Authors: Adelson Jill L. , McCoach D. Betsy , Gavin M. Katherine
Published: January 2012

This study examined the average effects of schools’ third through fifth grade gifted programming policy in mathematics and reading on overall school achievement, on gifted students’ achievement and academic attitudes and on nongifted students’ achievement and academic attitudes. Data and results represent a broad, national look at school personnel–reported programming without distinction as to type, length, or degree of programming. No detrimental effects were found at the overall school level or for nongifted students. However, the results also indicated that, on average, the diverse programs reported in the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Kindergarten Class of 1988-1989 (ECLS-K) database had no effect on gifted students’ achievement or academic attitudes. Considered in light of prior research indicating benefits of specific programs and existing inconsistent policies and programs, this suggests the need for future research to determine effective program characteristics and suggests that policy makers, educators, and parents actively must seek research-based practices to use with gifted children.
Molecular and Cellular Regulatory Mechanisms of Tongue Myogenesis
Authors: Parada C. , Han D. , Chai Y.
Published: January 2012

The tongue exerts crucial functions in our daily life. However, we know very little about the regulatory mechanisms of mammalian tongue development. In this review, we summarize recent findings of the molecular and cellular mechanisms that control tissue-tissue interactions during tongue morphogenesis. Specifically, cranial neural crest cells (CNCC) lead the initiation of tongue bud formation and contribute to the interstitial connective tissue, which ultimately compartmentalizes tongue muscles and serves as their attachments. Occipital somite-derived cells migrate into the tongue primordium and give rise to muscle cells in the tongue. The intimate relationship between CNCC- and mesoderm-derived cells, as well as growth and transcription factors that have been shown to be crucial for tongue myogenesis, clearly indicate that tissue-tissue interactions play an important role in regulating tongue morphogenesis.
The Impacts of Transport Accessibility on Population Change across Rural, Suburban and Urban Areas: A Case Study of Wisconsin at Sub-county Levels
Authors: Chi Guangqing
Published: January 2012

A large body of research has found that highways and airports have played important roles in promoting development and population growth (or decline). However, little attention has been paid to the possible spatial variation of their effects on population change. This study uses data related to population change in 1980–90 at the minor civil division level in Wisconsin to investigate the effects of highway and airport accessibility and accessibility improvements on population change across rural, suburban and urban areas. The results show that the effects vary across the three area types. In rural areas, highway improvement and airport accessibility promote population growth; in suburban areas, airport accessibility promotes population growth but highway accessibility facilitates population flows; and in urban areas, neither highways nor airports have a statistically significant effect on population change. The findings have important implications for local transport planning, as highways and airports play different roles along the rural–urban continuum.
Fair or Not Fair? The Effects of Numerical Framing on the Perceived Justice of Outcomes
Authors: Kwong Jessica Y. Y. , Wong Kin Fai Ellick
Published: January 2012

The authors draw on prospect theory and demonstrate that the perceived justice of an outcome is affected by the way numerical information is presented. Three experimental studies were conducted using five different samples, representing teachers, general employees, and future employees. People generally tend to see a bigger difference in the performance between the self versus another person when their performance components are presented in frames associated with small numbers (e.g., absence rate of 3% vs. 9%) than when they are presented in frames associated with large numbers (e.g., attendance rate of 97% vs. 91%). Despite the same objective performance difference (e.g., 6% in the above example), people expected different fair shares of rewards and evaluated justice of a given outcome differently across the two frames.
Problem Solving and Well-Being
Authors: Daniels Kevin , Beesley Nick , Wimalasiri Varuni , Cheyne Alistair
Published: January 2012

Enacting social support and job control can enable effective problem solving and protect well-being. The authors operationalized social support used for problem solving as “discussing problems with others to solve problems” (DIS-SP) and job control used to solve problems as “changing aspects of work activities to solve problems” (CHA-SP). Analyses of experience sampling data (N = 191) revealed that DIS-SP was inversely associated with subsequent negative affect and that there were curvilinear relationships between CHA-SP and subsequent levels of negative affect, fatigue, and cognitive failure, such that only high levels of CHA-SP were associated with lower levels of negative affect, fatigue, and cognitive failure. Fatigue was inversely associated with subsequent levels of DIS-SP and CHA-SP. Contrary to expectations, there was a positive association between cognitive failure and subsequent CHA-SP.
Irritability and Social Isolation in Dementia Patients With and Without Depression
Authors: Shub Denis , Bass David M. , Morgan Robert O. , Judge Katherine S. , Snow A. Lynn , Wilson Nancy L. , Walder Annette , Murry Brian , Kunik Mark E.
Published: January 2012

This study examined the prevalence of irritability and social isolation in veterans with dementia, with and without depression. Participants were diagnosed with dementia and enrolled in a dementia care-coordination and support-service intervention. Participants were interviewed and underwent assessment with the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale, a Patient Strain Measure and the Short Blessed Test. In all, of 294 participants completing interviews, 77 (26.2%) were depressed and 107 (36.4%) endorsed irritability; mean social isolation score was 1.59 ± 1.96. Irritability was significantly more likely to be present in depressed versus nondepressed participants ( P < .0001), but this relationship was moderated by dementia severity. The mean social isolation score was also significantly more elevated in depressed rather than nondepressed patients (2.82 ± 1.96 vs 1.15 ± 1.76, respectively). Conclusions: Depressed persons with dementia are significantly more likely to experience irritability and social isolation than those who are not depressed.
Preparation of adsorbent for extracting heavy metal ions by coir yarn
Authors: Zaman Haydar U , Al-Mamun Md , Khan Mubarak A , Khan Ruhul A
Published: January 2012

Coir yarns were cured with acrylic acid (AA) and phosphoric acid (PA) using ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Concentration of AA and PA, soaking time and intensity of UV radiation were optimized based on polymer loading (PL). It was found that the formulation containing 4% PA, 30% AA, 64% methanol and 2% photoinitiator showed maximum 35.13% of PL. The grafted yarns were soaked in CuSO4 solution for 30–180 min at different conditions. After withdrawing the yarns, the remaining copper in the solution were measured by atomic absorption spectrophotometer. It was revealed that copper was successfully removed using the grafted coir yarns.
Nursing Science and Public Health
Authors: Kulbok Pamela A. , Ervin Naomi E.
Published: January 2012

This column highlights the unique relationship of nursing science and public health in the broader context of the discipline of nursing and healthcare. An integrated framework is used to illustrate that nursing knowledge is the product of interaction and interdependence of four domains –the discipline and science of nursing, the philosophy of nursing, the nursing profession, and nursing practice. In the context of the integrated framework, knowledge specific to public health nursing is shown to inform the discipline of nursing and other health disciplines. Ongoing challenges related to clarifying and describing unique contributions to nursing and public health are explored. In addition, under utilization of theoretical and conceptual nursing knowledge from public health nursing for the advancement nursing science in education, practice, and research is addressed.
A Humanbecoming Program of Research
Authors: Doucet Thomas J.
Published: January 2012

The author of this column describes the evolution of program of research underpinned by the humanbecoming school of thought.
Classification and analysis of electric-powered lateral torque-vectoring differentials
Authors: Kato Tomo , Sawase Kaoru
Published: January 2012

An electric-powered lateral torque-vectoring differential utilizes the output torque of an electric motor for generating the torque difference between the right and the left wheels. Compared with conventional torque-vectoring differentials which utilize the slipping clutch or brake for torque vectoring, electric-powered lateral torque-vectoring differentials have advantages, namely the response and the control accuracy of the torque difference. However, an electric-powered lateral torque-vectoring differential is complex as it is composed of a single electric motor and some planetary gear units; therefore it is difficult to understand its mechanism and characteristics. This paper describes the classification and analysis of electric-powered lateral torque-vectoring differentials. Electric-powered lateral torque-vectoring differentials are studied using the velocity diagram which is utilized for analysis of the conventional torque-vectoring differentials. The analysis shows that the simplest electric-powered lateral torque-vectoring differential is a mechanism of five elements with two degrees of freedom; the mechanism is composed of a single electric motor, one differential gear unit and two planetary gear units; the gear ratios of the planetary gear units are equal to each other. The simplest mechanisms are classified into nine kinds and these have two differences in their characteristics, namely the torque amplification factor between the electric motor and the vectoring torque, and the revolution speeds of one rotational element. Finally, the best mechanism is evaluated from the differences of the characteristics.
Music and Reading
Authors: Hall Suzanne N. , Robinson Nicole R.
Published: January 2012

Increasingly, music teachers are required to assist, tutor, or teach reading skills in the music classroom. In the effort to meet such mandates, music teachers may be challenged to either relinquish valuable music instruction time or attempt to combine instructional strategies of both music and reading into singular lessons, units, and classroom activities. It may prove beneficial for music educators to understand common characteristics inherently shared between the two subjects. This article details terminology, learning processes, and instructional strategies shared between music and reading instruction. Activities demonstrate ways reading instruction is naturally supported in the music classroom.
Family Management Style Framework and Its Use With Families Who Have a Child Undergoing Palliative Care at Home
Authors: Bousso Regina Szylit , Misko Maira Deguer , Mendes-Castillo Ana Márcia Chiaradia , Rossato Lisabelle Mariano
Published: January 2012

Palliative care settings in many countries acknowledge families as their prime focus of care, but in Brazil, to date, researchers have devoted scant attention to that practice setting. In this article, we report the findings of a study that explored how families define and manage their lives when they have a child or adolescent undergoing palliative care at home. Data included individual semistructured interviews with 14 family members of 11 different families. Interviews were transcribed and the coding procedure featured qualitative content analysis methods. The deductive coding was based on the major components of the Family Management Style Framework and the eight dimensions comprising these components. The analysis provides insight into families’ daily practices and problems inherent in managing their everyday lives that are encountered when they have a child in palliative care. The article features discussion of implications for the palliative care related development of family nursing practice.
Family Management After the Sudden Death of a Family Member
Authors: Wiegand Debra L.
Published: January 2012

Although more is known about how individuals within families make decisions and manage more discrete issues when a family member is dying, less is known about how families as a unit manage after the sudden death of a family member. The article discusses an investigation that was conducted to better understand how families respond to the life-threatening illness or injury and eventual death of a family member. The purpose of the study was to define Family Management Styles (FMSs) and determine distinctive characteristics of each FMS used by families after the death of a family member who had life-sustaining therapy withdrawn as a result of an unexpected, life-threatening illness or injury. Interviews are conducted with 8 families (22 family members) 1 to 2 years after the death of their family members. A modified typology of FMSs based on a directed analysis that was then inductively modified includes: progressing, accommodating, maintaining, struggling, and floundering. Understanding FMSs and how FMSs may change over time, reflecting the changing focus of family work, will further aid in the development of family-focused interventions as well as develop FMSs within the context of end of life.
Introduction
Authors: Wyatt Jonathan , Adams Tony E.
Published: January 2012

In this article, the authors provide a context for, and an introduction to, the contributions in this special issue on sons and fathers. After alluding to the rich heritage of literature on sons and fathers, the authors propose three themes that run through this collection: the continuing significance of son-father relationships, the act of writing such relationships into being, and the “clunky intimacy” conveyed. They follow this with an outline of the lines of inquiry contained within each of the subsequent articles, and conclude by drawing attention to the absences left within and by this issue.
Fathers, Sons, Loss, and the Search for the Question
Authors: Wyatt Jonathan
Published: January 2012

As part of his continuing inquiry into fathers and loss, the author weaves between—felts together—stories from several sessions of working with a counseling client, “Terry,” and stories of the author’s relationship with his father. Through these narratives he explores the experience of relating to and losing a father, not necessarily in that order. The particular focus of the piece is on areas of relational dissonance, which he finds are often more difficult to surface and are certainly more problematic to articulate publicly. Suspicious of writing, writing, however inadequate, feels the only response he can make to these as, pace Cixous, he searches for questions rather than answers. He is not sure whether this is a hopeful essay or whether this writing “helps,” either the writer or the reader/witness.
Hips, elbows and Stifles
Authors: Grierson James
Published: January 2012

Practical relevance Cats commonly present with joint disease and trauma. A methodical approach to diagnostics and treatment can aid the clinician in the management of these cases.

Clinical challenges Cats with joint disease may present with a vague history owing to their independent nature, and gait assessment is often challenging when compared with the dog. Knowledge of feline-specific anatomy is important to avoid over- or misinterpretation of physical examination or imaging findings.

Audience This review of feline joint disease focuses on the more common, non-traumatic conditions of the hip, stifle and elbow. It aims to provide first opinion clinicians with a guide to decision making that will assist them in achieving a diagnosis and formulating a management strategy.

Evidence base There is an extensive body of original articles and textbooks in the published literature relating to aspects of feline joint disease. This article combines information from key companion animal and feline-specific references together with the author’s clinical experience to provide a practical overview of joint disease, and highlight important differences between cats and dogs in terms of presentation and treatment.
Transcultural issues in the dynamics of a Balint clinical reflection group for community mental health workers
Authors: Leggett Andrew
Published: January 2012

The author presents transcultural issues in the content, process, and group dynamics of consecutive meetings of a Balint clinical reflection group for community mental health workers at Inala, Australia. Balint work and the context and evolution of the group process are briefly described, as is the consultative research methodology. The process of a Balint group meeting is reported in detail, following the author’s consultation with group members. The collaborative work of a culturally diverse team of mental health professionals is examined in the context of discussion of a practitioner–patient relationship in which transcultural, gender, and family conflicts were the focus of affective and cognitive dissonance. For mental health workers engaging with communities of cultural diversity, Balint reflection groups can facilitate insight into cultural countertransferences that adversely affect clinical work. The group served to support the caseworkers’ engagement with patients of different cultures, and provided a safe environment for the creative consideration and exploration in fantasy of the emotional pressures and complex ethical dilemmas related to boundaries in transcultural client–practitioner relationships, including those in which open discussion would otherwise be avoided.
Thumb carpometacarpal osteoarthritis: trapeziectomy versus pyrocarbon interposition implant (Pi2) arthroplasty
Authors: Maru M. , Jettoo P. , Tourret L. , Jones M. , Irwin L.
Published: January 2012

We retrospectively compared the short-term outcomes of 18 thumbs that had a trapeziectomy and 18 that had a pyrocarbon interposition implant (Pi2) arthroplasty in 33 patients. We measured the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and Short Form 36 (SF-36) scores at a mean of 20 months. Pain severity was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS), and level of patient satisfaction was assessed using a 5-point scale. The mean DASH scores at follow up were 27 for those that had a trapeziectomy and 35 for those that had a Pi2 arthroplasty ( p = 0.001). There was no difference in the VAS for pain, SF-36 scores, or other parameters assessed. Six out of 18 (33%) thumbs in the Pi2 group had multiple operations, usually for dislocation or subluxation of the implant. The early results of Pi2 arthroplasty show a high complication rate compared with trapeziectomy and no identifiable benefit.
Recurrent Chyle Aspiration Secondary to a Bronchopleural Fistula Communicating With a Chylothorax
Authors: Coba Victor , Whitmill Melissa , Killu Keith , Mataria Hamed , Chawla Mohit , Simoff Mike
Published: January 2012

Persistent pneumonia and pulmonary infiltrates are commonly encountered in the intensive care unit. Thorough investigation is needed to uncover and confirm the diagnosis. This report presents a case of persistent pulmonary infiltrate and pleural effusion, which did not resolve despite multiple courses of antibiotics and several attempts of thoracostomy tube drainage. A bronchoscopy was performed that identified chyle aspiration from a persistent chylothorax through a postsurgical bronchopleural fistula.
Medical Training in the United States Prior to the Civil War*
Authors: Slawson Robert G.
Published: January 2012

Early medical school development in the United States was considerably more robust than is usually appreciated. Most histories include only that portion of medicine known as regular or allopathic medicine. To fully understand developments in the country, it is necessary to include the various medical sects that developed in the country in the early 19th century. It is also important to realize that the impetus for medical school development came not from established academic institutions but from the medical community itself. Medical schools in the United States developed at a time and place that hospitals, as we know them, did not exist. The melding together of the preceptorship (apprenticeship), didactic lectures, demonstrations, and clinical/hospital experience evolved slowly. The move from heroic medicine occurred somewhat reluctantly as in Europe. In the United States, in contrast to the situation in Europe, the majority of medical practitioners were called “doctor.” The development of medicine and medical education is usually discussed as a progression of knowledge. It has been fashionable to ignore the development of the various medical sects. Even within regular medicine, no uniformity of thought existed by this time. The American Medical Association was born of this. Change within a segment of society always reflects, and is reflected by, change in society at large. The rapid increases in geographic area and the huge population growth must be understood. Times changed as the character of the population changed. Perception of gender and freedom were important aspects of this change. A number of prominent African American physicians also emerged.
Annexin II interactions with the annexin II receptor enhance multiple myeloma cell adhesion and growth in the bone marrow microenvironment
Authors: D'Souza Sonia , Kurihara Noriyoshi , Shiozawa Yusuke , Joseph Jeena , Taichman Russell , Galson Deborah L. , Roodman G. David
Published: January 2012

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable B-cell malignancy in which the marrow microenvironment plays a critical role in our inability to cure MM. Marrow stromal cells in the microenvironment support homing, lodging, and growth of MM cells through activation of multiple signaling pathways in both MM and stromal cells. Recently, we identified annexin II (AXII) as a previously unknown factor produced by stromal cells and osteoclasts (OCL) that is involved in OCL formation, HSC and prostate cancer (PCa) homing to the BM as well as mobilization of HSC and PCa cells. AXII expressed on stromal cells supports PCa cell lodgment via the AXII receptor (AXIIR) on PCa cells, but the role of AXII and AXIIR in MM is unknown. In this study, we show that MM cells express AXIIR, that stromal/osteoblast-derived AXII facilitates adhesion of MM cells to stromal cells via AXIIR, and OCL-derived AXII enhances MM cell growth. Finally, we demonstrate that AXII activates the ERK1/2 and AKT pathways in MM cells to enhance MM cell growth. These results demonstrate that AXII and AXIIR play important roles in MM and that targeting the AXII/AXIIR axis may be a novel therapeutic approach for MM.
RNA-Seq and molecular docking reveal multi-level pesticide resistance in the bed bug
Authors: Mamidala Praveen , Wijeratne Asela J , Wijeratne Saranga , Kornacker Karl , Sudhamalla Babu , Rivera-Vega Loren J , Hoelmer Andrew , Meulia Tea , Jones Susan C , Mittapalli Omprakash
Published: January 2012

Background

Bed bugs (Cimex lectularius) are hematophagous nocturnal parasites of humans that have attained high impact status due to their worldwide resurgence. The sudden and rampant resurgence ofC. lectulariushas been attributed to numerous factors including frequent international travel, narrower pest management practices, and insecticide resistance.

Results

We performed a next-generation RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) experiment to find differentially expressed genes between pesticide-resistant (PR) and pesticide-susceptible (PS) strains ofC. lectularius. A reference transcriptome database of 51,492 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) was created by combining the databases derived fromde novoassembled mRNA-Seqtags (30,404 ESTs) and our previous 454 pyrosequenced database (21,088 ESTs). The two-way GLMseq analysis revealed ~15,000 highly significant differentially expressed ESTs between the PR and PS strains. Among the top 5,000 differentially expressed ESTs, 109 putative defense genes (cuticular proteins, cytochrome P450s, antioxidant genes, ABC transporters, glutathioneS-transferases, carboxylesterases and acetyl cholinesterase) involved in penetration resistance and metabolic resistance were identified. Tissue and development-specific expression of P450 CYP3 clan members showed high mRNA levels in the cuticle, Malpighian tubules, and midgut; and in early instar nymphs, respectively. Lastly, molecular modeling and docking of a candidate cytochrome P450 (CYP397A1V2) revealed the flexibility of the deduced protein to metabolize a broad range of insecticide substrates including DDT, deltamethrin, permethrin, and imidacloprid.

Conclusions

We developed significant molecular resources forC. lectulariusputatively involved in metabolic resistance as well as those participating in other modes of insecticide resistance. RNA-Seqprofiles of PR strains combined with tissue-specific profiles and molecular docking revealed multi-level insecticide resistance inC. lectularius. Future research that is targeted towards RNA interference (RNAi) on the identified metabolic targets such as cytochrome P450s and cuticular proteins could lay the foundation for a better understanding of the genetic basis of insecticide resistance inC. lectularius.
Randomised controlled trial of improvisational music therapy's effectiveness for children with autism spectrum disorders (TIME-A): study protocol
Authors: Geretsegger Monika , Holck Ulla , Gold Christian
Published: January 2012

Background

Previous research has suggested that music therapy may facilitate skills in areas typically affected by autism spectrum disorders such as social interaction and communication. However, generalisability of previous findings has been restricted, as studies were limited in either methodological accuracy or the clinical relevance of their approach. The aim of this study is to determine effects of improvisational music therapy on social communication skills of children with autism spectrum disorders. An additional aim of the study is to examine if variation in dose of treatment (i.e., number of music therapy sessions per week) affects outcome of therapy, and to determine cost-effectiveness.

Methods/Design

Children aged between 4;0 and 6;11 years who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder will be randomly assigned to one of three conditions. Parents of all participants will receive three sessions of parent counselling (at 0, 2, and 5 months). In addition, children randomised to the two intervention groups will be offered individual, improvisational music therapy over a period of five months, either one session (low-intensity) or three sessions (high-intensity) per week. Generalised effects of music therapy will be measured using standardised scales completed by blinded assessors (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule, ADOS) and parents (Social Responsiveness Scale, SRS) before and 2, 5, and 12 months after randomisation. Cost effectiveness will be calculated as man years. A group sequential design with first interim look at N = 235 will ensure both power and efficiency.

Discussion

Responding to the need for more rigorously designed trials examining the effectiveness of music therapy in autism spectrum disorders, this pragmatic trial sets out to generate findings that will be well generalisable to clinical practice. Addressing the issue of dose variation, this study's results will also provide information on the relevance of session frequency for therapy outcome.

Trial Registration

Current Controlled TrialsISRCTN78923965.
Prevalence of the metabolic syndrome among children from six cities of China
Authors: Xu Haiquan , Li Yanping , Liu Ailing , Zhang Qian , Hu Xiaoqi , Fang Hongyun , Li Tingyu , Guo Hongwei , Li Ying , Xu Guifa , Ma Jun , Du Lin , Ma Guansheng
Published: January 2012

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) in childhood can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia in adulthood, which is of increasing concern in transitional and advanced economies. The aim of the current study was to explore the prevalence of MetS among children from six cities of China.

Methods

A total of 8,764 children (4,495 boys, 4,269 girls) aged 7-11 years were randomly selected from 6 cities of China. MetS was mainly defined by the criteria proposed by International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

Results

The overall prevalence of MetS for children older than 10 years was 0.8% by IDF definition. Obese children had significantly higher MetS prevalence compared with their counterparts with overweight (6.6% vs. 0.9%, p < 0.01) and normal weight (6.6% vs. 0.05%, p < 0.01). The prevalence of abdominal obesity, high triglycerides, low high density lipoprotein cholesterol, hypertension and high glucose among obese children was 93.4%, 16.5%, 14.3%, 7.3% and 4.0%, respectively, which significantly higher than those among overweight children (37.0%, 6.1%, 10.0%, 4.2%, and 3.3%, respectively) and among normal weight children (1.2%, 3.3%, 4.0%, 1.7% and 2.5%, respectively). The proportion of children with at least one, two, and three items of the metabolic abnormalities were 25.0%, 5.4% and 0.9%, respectively. Metabolic abnormalities were also present in children under 10 years of age.

Conclusions

The early onset of MetS among children and relatively high proportions of children with at least one or two metabolic abnormalities in cities of China can increase the risk of developing MetS. It implies the necessity to take effective actions to control and prevent the rapid development of obesity among children in developing countries, especial those undergoing transition to a Western lifestyle.
Construction and transformation of a Thermotoga-E. colishuttle vector
Authors: Han Dongmei , Norris Stephen M , Xu Zhaohui
Published: January 2012

Background

Thermotoga spp. are attractive candidates for producing biohydrogen, green chemicals, and thermostable enzymes. They may also serve as model systems for understanding life sustainability under hyperthermophilic conditions. A lack of genetic tools has hampered the investigation and application of these organisms. This study aims to develop a genetic transfer system for Thermotoga spp.

Results

Methods for preparing and handling Thermotoga solid cultures under aerobic conditions were optimized. A plating efficiency of ~50% was achieved when the bacterial cells were embedded in 0.3% Gelrite. A Thermotoga-E. coli shuttle vector pDH10 was constructed using pRQ7, a cryptic mini-plasmid found in T. sp. RQ7. Plasmid pDH10 was introduced to T. maritima and T. sp. RQ7 by electroporation and liposome-mediated transformation. Transformants were isolated, and the transformed kanamycin resistance gene (kan) was detected from the plasmid DNA extracts of the recombinant strains by PCR and was confirmed by restriction digestions. The transformed DNA was stably maintained in both Thermotoga and E. coli even without the selective pressure.

Conclusions

Thermotoga are transformable by multiple means. Recombinant Thermotoga strains have been isolated for the first time. A heterologous kan gene is functionally expressed and stably maintained in Thermotoga.
Copeptin does not accurately predict disease severity in imported malaria
Authors: van Wolfswinkel Marlies E , Hesselink Dennis A , Hoorn Ewout J , de Rijke Yolanda B , Koelewijn Rob , van Hellemond Jaap J , van Genderen Perry JJ
Published: January 2012

Background

Copeptin has recently been identified to be a stable surrogate marker for the unstable hormone arginine vasopressin (AVP). Copeptin has been shown to correlate with disease severity in leptospirosis and bacterial sepsis. Hyponatraemia is common in severe imported malaria and dysregulation of AVP release has been hypothesized as an underlying pathophysiological mechanism. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the performance of copeptin as a predictor of disease severity in imported malaria.

Methods

Copeptin was measured in stored serum samples of 204 patients with imported malaria that were admitted to our Institute for Tropical Diseases in Rotterdam in the period 1999-2010. The occurrence of WHO defined severe malaria was the primary end-point. The diagnostic performance of copeptin was compared to that of previously evaluated biomarkers C-reactive protein, procalcitonin, lactate and sodium.

Results

Of the 204 patients (141 Plasmodium falciparum, 63 non-falciparum infection), 25 had severe malaria. The Area Under the ROC curve of copeptin for severe disease (0.66 [95% confidence interval 0.59-0.72]) was comparable to that of lactate, sodium and procalcitonin. C-reactive protein (0.84 [95% CI 0.79-0.89]) had a significantly better performance as a biomarker for severe malaria than the other biomarkers.

Conclusions

C-reactive protein but not copeptin was found to be an accurate predictor for disease severity in imported malaria. The applicability of copeptin as a marker for severe malaria in clinical practice is limited to exclusion of severe malaria.
Targeting notch pathway enhances rapamycin antitumor activity in pancreas cancers through PTEN phosphorylation
Authors: Vo Kevin , Amarasinghe Barushi , Washington Kay , Gonzalez Adriana , Berlin Jordan , Dang Thao P
Published: January 2012

Background

Pancreas cancer is one of most aggressive human cancers with the survival rate for patients with metastatic pancreas cancer at 5-6 months. The poor survival demonstrates a clear need for better target identification, drug development and new therapeutic strategies. Recent discoveries have shown that the role for Notch pathway is important in both development and cancer. Its contribution to oncogenesis also involves crosstalks with other growth factor pathways, such as Akt and its modulator, PTEN. The mounting evidence supporting a role for Notch in cancer promotion and survival suggests that targeting this pathway alone or in combination with other therapeutics represents a promising therapeutic strategy.

Results

Using a pancreas cancer tissue microarray, we noted that Jagged1, Notch3 and Notch4 are overexpressed in pancreas tumors (26%, 84% and 31% respectively), whereas Notch1 is expressed in blood vessels. While there was no correlation between Notch receptor expression and survival, stage or tumor grade, Notch3 was associated with Jagged1 and EGFR expression, suggesting a unique relationship between Notch3 and Jagged1. Inhibition of the Notch pathway genetically and with gamma-secretase inhibitor (GSI) resulted in tumor suppression and enhanced cell death. The observed anti-tumor activity appeared to be through Akt and modulation of PTEN phosphorylation. We discovered that transcriptional regulation of RhoA by Notch is important for PTEN phosphorylation. Finally, the mTOR inhibitor Rapamycin enhanced the effect of GSI on RhoA expression, resulting in down regulation of phospho-Akt and increased in vitro tumor cytotoxity.

Conclusions

Notch pathway plays an important role in maintaining pancreas tumor phenotype. Targeting this pathway represents a reasonable strategy for the treatment of pancreas cancers. Notch modulates the Akt pathway through regulation of PTEN phosphorylation, an observation that has not been made previously. Furthermore, we discovered that this regulation is dependent on RhoA/Rock1 activation. Enhanced phospho-Akt suppression when GSI is combined with rapamycin suggests that targeting both pathways will lead to a greater efficacy in the treatment of patients with pancreas cancer.