bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Semantic priming of person recognition: Categorial priming may be a weaker form of the associative priming effect
Authors: Carson Derek R. , Mike Burton A.
Published: September 2011

An interactive activation and competition account (Burton, Bruce, & Johnston, 1990) of the semantic priming effect in person recognition studies relies on the fact that primes and targets (people) have semantic information in common. However, recent investigations into the type of relationship needed to mediate the semantic priming effect have suggested that the prime and target must be close associates (e.g., Barry, Johnston, & Scanlan, 1998; Young, Flude, Hellawell, & Ellis, 1994). A review of these and similar papers suggests the possibility of a small but non-reliable effect based purely on categorial relationships. Experiment 1 provided evidence that when participants were asked to make a name familiarity decision it was possible to boost this small categorial effect when multiple (four) primes were presented prior to the target name. Results from Experiment 2 indicated that the categorial effect was not due to the particular presentation times of the primes. This boosted categorial effect was shown to cross domains (names to faces) in Experiment 3 and persist in Experiment 4 when the task involved naming the target face. The similarity of the pattern of results produced by the associative priming effect and this boosted categorial effect suggests that the two may be due to the same underlying mechanism in semantic memory.
The relationship between the structural mere exposure effect and the implicit learning process
Authors: Newell Ben R. , Bright James E.H.
Published: September 2011

Three experiments are reported that investigate the relationship between the structural mere exposure effect (SMEE) and implicit learning in an artificial grammar task. Subjects were presented with stimuli generated from a finite-state grammar and were asked to memorize them. In a subsequent test phase subjects were required first to rate how much they liked novel items, and second whether or not they thought items conformed to the rules of the grammar. A small but consistent effect of grammaticality was found on subjects’ liking ratings (a “structural mere exposure effect”) in all three experiments, but only when encoding and testing conditions were consistent. A change in the surface representation of stimuli between encoding and test (Experiment 1), memorizing fragments of items and being tested on whole items (Experiment 2), and a mismatch of processing operations between encoding and test (Experiment 3) all removed the SMEE. In contrast, the effect of grammaticality on rule judgements remained intact in the face of all three manipulations. It is suggested that rule judgements reflect attempts to explicitly recall information about training items, whereas the SMEE can be explained in terms of an attribution of processing fluency.
Inspection times, the change task, and the rapid-response selection task
Authors: Roberts Maxwell J. , Newton Elizabeth J.
Published: September 2011

Three experiments are reported, which are based upon the Wason four-card selection task inspection time paradigm, in which subjects solve computer-presented trials while using a mouse to indicate the card currently under consideration. Evans (1996) had shown that selected cards were inspected for longer than non-selected cards, and this was taken as support for the existence of pre-conscious heuristic processes that direct attention towards relevant aspects of a problem. However, Roberts (1998b) suggested that this inspection time effect is artefactual, due to task format induced biases. Experiment 1 utilized a “change” task: Cards were presented either as selected or not selected, and subjects changed these where necessary. This demonstrated an association between card selection and inspection time independently of one between the act of response and inspection time. Experiment 2 utilized a standard selection task, but subjects either responded within 2 s of each card presentation, or made selections with no time pressure. The curtailment of thinking time increased matching behaviour—more cards matching the terms in the rules were selected—and was replicated in Experiment 3 using a within-subjects design. Overall, the data support Evans’ heuristic-analytic framework albeit with some caveats.
Separating effects of orthographic similarity and contour summation in the identification of masked letter strings
Authors: Humphreys Glyn W. , Olson Andrew
Published: September 2011

We separated effects of contour summation and orthographic similarity under masking conditions, by comparing identification with simultaneous and sequentially presented letter strings, which either did or did not overlap spatially. With overlapping simultaneous stimuli, performance was better for strings with similar contours than for strings with the same letters (the orthographic similarity condition). This suggests that contour summation effects were strongest in the condition where stimuli had similar contours. With sequential presentations, performance in the similar contour and the orthographically similar conditions was equated when the stimuli were overlapping. However, effects of contour summation decreased when prime and target letters were spatially displaced, whereas performance in the orthographically similar condition was maintained. We conclude that effects of orthographic similarity can be distinguished from effects of contour summation, under masking conditions.
Packaging materials for plasma sterilization with the flowing afterglow of an N2–O2 discharge: damage assessment and inactivation efficiency of enclosed bacterial spores
Authors: Levif P , Séguin J , Moisan M , Soum-Glaude A , Barbeau J
Published: September 2011

In conventional sterilization methods (steam, ozone, gaseous chemicals), after their proper cleaning, medical devices are wrapped/enclosed in adequate packaging materials, then closed/sealed before initiating the sterilization process: these packaging materials thus need to be porous. Gaseous plasma sterilization being still under development, evaluation and comparison of packaging materials have not yet been reported in the literature. To this end, we have subjected various porous packagings used with conventional sterilization systems to the N2–O2 flowing afterglow and also a non-porous one to evaluate and compare their characteristics towards the inactivation of B. atrophaeus endospores deposited on a Petri dish and enclosed in such packagings. Because the sterilization process with the N2–O2 discharge afterglow is conducted under reduced-pressure conditions, non-porous pouches can be sealed only after returning to atmospheric pressure. All the tests were therefore conducted with one end of the packaging freely opened, post-sealing being required. The features of these packaging materials, namely mass loss, resistance, toxicity to human cells as well as some characteristics specific to the plasma method used such as ultraviolet transparency, were examined before and after exposure to the flowing afterglow. All of our results show that the non-porous packaging considered is much more suitable than the conventionally used porous ones as far as ensuring an efficient and low-damage sterilization process with an N2–O2 plasma-afterglow is concerned.
How kinesin-2 forms a stalk
Authors: Vukajlovic Marija , Dietz Hendrik , Schliwa Manfred , Ökten Zeynep
Published: September 2011

The heterotrimeric structure of kinesin-2 makes it a unique member of the kinesin superfamily; however, molecular details of the oligomer formation are largely unknown. Here we demonstrate that heterodimerization of the two distinct motor domains KLP11 and KLP20 of Caenorhabditis elegans kinesin-2 requires a dimerization seed of merely two heptads at the C terminus of the stalk. This heterodimeric seed is sufficient to promote dimerization along the entire length of the stalk, as shown by circular dichroism spectroscopy, Förster resonance energy transfer analysis, and electron microscopy. In addition to explaining the formation of the kinesin-2 stalk, the seed sequence identified here bears great potential for generating specific heterodimerization in other protein biochemical applications.
The Strategy of Structure: Architectural and Managerial Style at Alcoa and Owens-Corning
Authors: Leslie Stuart W.
Published: September 2011

The Alcoa Building (1953) and Fiberglas Tower (1969) exemplify “architecture parlante”, literally buildings that speak of their function and meaning. They said—in steel, aluminum and (fiber)glass—this is who we are; this is what we do; this is how we do it. They provided prestige, visibility, and a sense of collective identity. Alcoa and Owens-Corning intended their signature buildings as larger than life advertisements for their signature products. The executives who commissioned them also expected the buildings themselves to reflect, and reinforce, new management styles. In the early 1990s, Alcoa and Owen-Corning commissioned new headquarters buildings that reflected a new management style thought to be appropirate for an emerging era of the flat organization and the ‘networked corporation’. Like their predecessors, these buildings sent an unmistakable message about management priorities. The buildings – outside and in – helped bring the organization, and the organizational chart, to life, both symbolically and pragmatically. Read carefully, a signature building can be a revealing corporate memoir.
Factors influencing temporal variation of scrapie incidence within a closed Suffolk sheep flock
Authors: González Lorenzo , Dagleish Mark P. , Martin Stuart , Finlayson Jeanie , Sisó Sílvia , Eaton Samantha L. , Goldmann Wilfred , Witz Janey , Hamilton Scott , Stewart Paula , Pang Yvonne , Steele Philip , Reid Hugh W. , Chianini Francesca , Jeffrey Martin
Published: September 2011

Several studies have shown that transmission of natural scrapie can occur vertically and horizontally, and that variations in scrapie incidence between and within infected flocks are mostly due to differences in the proportion of sheep with susceptible and resistant PRNP genotypes. This report presents the results of a 12-year period of scrapie monitoring in a closed flock of Suffolk sheep, in which only animals of the ARQ/ARQ genotype developed disease. Among a total of 120 of these, scrapie attack rates varied between birth cohorts from 62.5 % (5/8) to 100 % (9/9), and the incidence of clinical disease among infected sheep from 88.9 % (8/9) to 100 % (in five birth cohorts). Susceptible sheep born to scrapie-infected ewes showed a slightly higher risk of becoming infected (97.2 %), produced earlier biopsy-positive results (mean 354 days) and developed disease at a younger age (median 736 days) than those born to non-infected dams (80.3 %, 451 and 782 days, respectively). Taken together, this was interpreted as evidence of maternal transmission. However, it was also observed that, for the birth cohorts with the highest incidence of scrapie (90–100 %), sheep born to infected and non-infected dams had a similar risk of developing scrapie (97.1 and 95.3 %, respectively). Compared with moderate-attack-rate cohorts (62.5–66.7 %), high-incidence cohorts had greater numbers of susceptible lambs born to infected ewes, suggesting that increased rates of horizontal transmission in these cohorts could have been due to high levels of environmental contamination caused by infected placentas.
The accumulation of influenza A virus segment 7 spliced mRNAs is regulated by the NS1 protein
Authors: Robb Nicole C. , Fodor Ervin
Published: September 2011

The influenza A virus M1 mRNA is alternatively spliced to produce M2 mRNA, mRNA3, and in some cases, M4 mRNA. Splicing of influenza mRNAs is carried out by the cellular splicing machinery and is thought to be regulated, as both spliced and unspliced mRNAs encode proteins. In this study, we used radioactively labelled primers to investigate the accumulation of spliced and unspliced M segment mRNAs in viral infection and ribonucleoprotein (RNP) reconstitution assays in which only the minimal components required for transcription and replication to occur were expressed. We found that co-expression of the viral NS1 protein in an RNP reconstitution assay altered the accumulation of spliced mRNAs compared with when it was absent, and that this activity was dependent on the RNA-binding ability of NS1. These findings suggest that the NS1 protein plays a role in the regulation of splicing of influenza virus M1 mRNA.
Synchrotron X-ray tests of an L-shaped laterally graded multilayer mirror for the analyzer system of the ultra-high-resolution IXS spectrometer at NSLS-II
Authors: Honnicke Marcelo G. , Keister Jeffrey W. , Conley Raymond , Kaznatcheev Konstantine , Takacs Peter Z. , Coburn David Scott , Reffi Leo , Cai Yong Q.
Published: September 2011

Characterization and testing of an L-shaped laterally graded multilayer mirror are presented. This mirror is designed as a two-dimensional collimating optics for the analyzer system of the ultra-high-resolution inelastic X-ray scattering (IXS) spectrometer at National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II). The characterization includes point-to-point reflectivity measurements, lattice parameter determination and mirror metrology (figure, slope error and roughness). The synchrotron X-ray test of the mirror was carried out reversely as a focusing device. The results show that the L-shaped laterally graded multilayer mirror is suitable to be used, with high efficiency, for the analyzer system of the IXS spectrometer at NSLS-II.
In situtwo-dimensional imaging quick-scanning XAFS with pixel array detector
Authors: Tanida Hajime , Yamashige Hisao , Orikasa Yuki , Oishi Masatsugu , Takanashi Yu , Fujimoto Takahiro , Sato Kenji , Takamatsu Daiko , Murayama Haruno , Arai Hajime , Matsubara Eiichiro , Uchimoto Yoshiharu , Ogumi Zempachi
Published: September 2011

Quick-scanning X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) measurements were performed in transmission mode using a PILATUS 100K pixel array detector (PAD). The method can display a two-dimensional image for a large area of the order of a centimetre with a spatial resolution of 0.2 mm at each energy point in the XAFS spectrum. The time resolution of the quick-scanning method ranged from 10 s to 1 min per spectrum depending on the energy range. The PAD has a wide dynamic range and low noise, so the obtained spectra have a good signal-to-noise ratio.
The identification of SNPs with indeterminate positions using the Equine SNP50 BeadChip
Authors: Corbin L. J. , Blott S. C. , Swinburne J. E. , Vaudin M. , Bishop S. C. , Woolliams J. A.
Published: September 2011

We have used linkage disequilibrium (LD) to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on the Illumina Equine SNP50 BeadChip, which may be incorrectly positioned on the genome map. A total of 1201 Thoroughbred horses were genotyped using the Illumina Equine SNP50 BeadChip. LD was evaluated in a pairwise fashion between all autosomal SNPs, both within and across chromosomes. Filters were then applied to the data, firstly to identify SNPs that may have been mapped to the wrong chromosome and secondly to identify SNPs that may have been incorrectly positioned within chromosomes. We identified a single SNP on ECA28, which showed low LD with neighbouring SNPs but considerable LD with a group of SNPs on ECA10. Furthermore, a cluster of SNPs on ECA5 showed unusually low LD with surrounding SNPs. A total of 39 SNPs met the criteria for unusual within‐chromosome LD. The results of this study indicate that some SNPs may be misplaced. This finding is significant, as misplaced SNPs may lead to difficulties in the application of genomic methods, such as homozygosity mapping, for which SNP order is important.
Families affected by childhood cancer: an analysis of the provision of social support within online support groups
Authors: Coulson N. S. , Greenwood N.
Published: September 2011

Background  With increasing access to the Internet, there are new opportunities available to families to seek information, advice and support about childhood cancer online.

Methods  A total of 487 messages were retrieved from three childhood cancer online support groups and were analysed using deductive thematic analysis for the presence of support‐intended communication using Cutrona and Suhr's social support typology. In addition, the messages were examined for negative experiences or disadvantages.

Results  The results revealed the presence of five types of social support: emotional, informational, esteem support and tangible assistance. In addition, some potential limitations of online support were identified, including a lack of responses and difficulties in maintaining relationships outside the online group context.

Conclusion  This study suggests that online support groups may offer the potential to support family members of children with cancer. In particular, it may be a useful resource for those seeking emotional and information support. However, there may be limitations associated with the use of online support groups.
Vertical vs. transverse sections of scalp biopsy specimens: a pilot study on the comparison of the diagnostic value of two techniques in alopecia
Authors: Özcan D. , Özen Ö. , Seçkin D.
Published: September 2011

Background. Using both vertical and transverse sections is preferred for histopathological diagnosis of alopecia. However, in cases in which only a single biopsy is taken, it is not clear which type of sectioning is better.

Aim. To compare the diagnostic value of transverse and vertical sections.

Methods. In total, 53 patients with alopecia were enrolled in the study. Two biopsies were taken from each patient, and cut into either transverse or vertical sections. The clinical and histopathological findings were evaluated together for the definitive diagnosis. After the study period, a pathologist randomly re-evaluated the sections. We compared the histopathological diagnoses with the definitive diagnoses, and determined the sensitivity and specificity of each method.

Results. A definitive diagnosis was made for 47 patients (88.7%). Of these, 30 (63.8%) had noncicatricial and 17 (36.2%) had cicatricial alopecia, and the diagnosis was made by transverse and vertical sections for 43 (91.5%) and 39 (88%), respectively (P > 0.05; sensitivity; 91.5% vs. 82%). All 30 patients with noncicatricial alopecia were diagnosed by transverse sections, and 25 (83.3%) of the 30 were diagnosed with vertical sections (P = 0.05; sensitivity 100% vs. 83.3%). Of the 17 patients with cicatricial alopecia, 13 (76.5%) and 14 (82.4%) patients were diagnosed by transverse and vertical sections, respectively (P > 0.05; sensitivity 76.5% vs. 82.4%). Five patients with lichen planopilaris were diagnosed by vertical sections, and one by transverse sections. There were several limitations to the study: (i) statistical subtype analysis could be performed only for alopecia areata; (ii) no conclusion could be drawn about the interobserver reliability of two sections; and (iii) having the pathologist-blinded study performed retrospectively might have caused a recall bias.

Conclusion. If only a single biopsy specimen is available, it may be preferable to have transverse sections in cases of suspected noncicatricial alopecia, and vertical sections in cases of suspected lichen planopilaris. Either type of sectioning is suitable for cicatricial alopecia when lichen planopilaris is clinically unlikely.
A reduced serum level of total osteocalcin in men predicts the development of diabetes in a long‐term follow‐up cohort
Authors: Ngarmukos Chardpraorn , Chailurkit La‐or , Chanprasertyothin Suwanee , Hengprasith Bunlue , Sritara Piyamitr , Ongphiphadhanakul Boonsong
Published: September 2011

Background  Osteocalcin (OC), an osteoblast‐specific protein, has been demonstrated to affect glucose metabolism in both animals and humans. Studies in animals have shown an effect of undercarboxylated OC (ucOC) on beta‐cell proliferation and insulin resistance. It remains unclear whether OC is associated with the future development of diabetes in humans, as well as the relative importance of ucOC vs OC.

Objective  The aim of this study was to examine serum OC and its post‐translational forms as potential biomarkers for future the development of type 2 diabetes.

Methods  This was a nested case–control study using data from the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT). We identified 63 men without diabetes in the exploratory cohort at baseline who developed type 2 diabetes (DM) during the 10‐year follow‐up period from 1998–2008, and also 63 men age‐ and BMI‐matched for a non‐diabetes control group (non‐DM). Serum N‐mid OC and ucOC were measured in baseline blood samples. Logistic regression models were used to explore and identify baseline factors, including OC and ucOC, that predicted the subsequent development of diabetes.

Results  The mean age and BMI were similar in both non‐DM and DM groups (47·2 ± 0·5 vs 47·8 ± 0·8 years and 25·2 ± 0·5 vs 25·9 ± 0·5 kg/m2, respectively). Only baseline mean serum N‐mid OC (15·2 ± 0·5 vs 13·0 ± 0·5 μg/l, P < 0·05) and fasting plasma glucose (4·92 ± 0·04 vs 5·28 ± 0·07 mmol/l, P < 0·05) were significantly different between the two groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that baseline serum N‐mid OC and glucose, but not ucOC, were independent risk factors for the development of diabetes in this long‐term study cohort.

Conclusions  Circulating total OC is associated with incident diabetes in men. Further studies to evaluate the potential utility of OC as a biomarker to predict the development of type 2 diabetes are warranted.
Nurses’ assessments of individualised care in long‐term care institutions
Authors: Suhonen Riitta , Alikleemola Pilvi , Katajisto Jouko , Leino‐Kilpi Helena
Published: September 2011

Aims.  The aims of this study were to explore nurses’ assessments of individualised care in long‐term care wards and to examine how their sociodemographic variables were associated with their views of such care.

Background.  Although the importance of individualised care is highlighted both by nurses and by older people, there is a limited amount of research about individualised care, especially in the long‐term care of older people.

Design.  An exploratory design was employed.

Methods.  Data were collected using questionnaires [Individualised Care Scale (ICS)‐Nurse] from nurses (n = 283, n = 215, response rate 76%) working in the long‐term care wards (n = 19) of four institutions in 2009. Data were analysed statistically.

Results.  Overall, nurses perceived that they supported patient individuality during nursing activities but the care they provided was not so individualised. Nurses perceived that they supported older peoples’ individuality in the clinical situation and in decisional control over care well but supported older peoples’ individual life situation to a lesser extent. The higher the nurses’ age, the longer the working experience in health care or experience in the current ward, the more positive views they had about the support of individuality.

Conclusions.  This study identified some shortcomings in the realisation of individuality in the care of older people. Nurses seem to think they generally provide individualised care but this was not necessarily realised in the current evaluations of the care they delivered.

Relevance to clinical practice.  There is need to identify issues that may help in developing individualised care in clinical practice. Nurses’ attitude to older people in the geriatric care settings needs exploration. Nurses may focus on physiological needs that may hinder the recognition of older patient’s individuality.
Global spread and evolution of viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus
Authors: Studer J , Janies D A
Published: September 2011

Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia virus (VHSV) is a rhabdovirus that infects over 48 species of teleosts and is lethal in many. VHSV threatens marine and aquatic fisheries. VHSV was first discovered outside Europe in 1988 in fish from the Pacific coast of North America. In 1994, VHSV was discovered in Newfoundland. In 2003, VHSV was isolated from fish in Lake St. Clair (Michigan and Ontario). In this study, we used 46 nucleotide sequences for the glycoprotein gene from 12 studies and 150 nucleotide sequences for the nucleoprotein gene from nine studies. We combined phylogenetics and a geographic information system to visualize the transmission paths of VHSV lineages. We also reconstructed the spread of VHSV lineages through optimization of geographic data for viral isolates on phylogenetic trees. We demonstrate that VHSV was transmitted from the North Atlantic Ocean and/or Baltic Sea to the Atlantic coast of North America and Japan in independent events. From the Atlantic coast, the virus was transmitted independently to the Laurentian Great Lakes and the Pacific coast of Canada and the contiguous United States. From the Pacific Northwest, the virus was transmitted to Asia and Alaska in independent events. These results clarify the debate ongoing in the literature on the geographic spread of VHSV.
How staff pursue questions to adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Finlay W. M. L. , Antaki C.
Published: September 2011

Background  When support staff use questions to instruct, advise or guide adults with intellectual disabilities (ID), or to solicit information from them, the interaction does not always proceed smoothly, particularly when replies are ambiguous, absent or not obviously relevant. That can lead to interactional trouble and dissatisfaction, or worse.

Methods  We report on the ways in which staff members transform their questions over a series of conversational turns in order to solicit an adequate reply, and thereby to fulfil the interactional goal of the question. Our data come from approximately 30 h of recordings of natural conversation between staff members and adults with ID in two residential and one outdoor activities settings.

Results  We identify seven practices by which staff attempt to resolve the dilemma between undue direction and premature closure. These include: expansion of the original question, simplifying its format, changing its content in various ways and realising its alternatives in physical form.

Conclusions  We highlight strategies which produce answers satisfactory to both parties, and improve the quality of interaction between staff and people with ID.
Light‐ and electronmicroscopic study of infiltration of resin into initial caries lesions—a new methodological approach
Authors: ARNOLD W.H. , GAENGLER P.
Published: September 2011

It was the purpose of this pilot study to investigate resin infiltration into various types of initial subsurface caries lesions using a combined microscopic technique with polarized light microscopy and fluorescence microscopy and subsequent scanning microscopy with EDX‐element analysis. Six extracted premolars with initial caries lesions were used. Five were infiltrated with resin after imbibition of the subsurface carious pore volume of enamel with sodium fluorescein solution. After light curing the unbound dye was removed by washing out in water. Serial sections were cut through the lesions and investigated with polarized light microscopy, fluorescence microscopy and simultaneously with both microscopic techniques. The same sections were then studied with scanning electron microscopy and EDX‐element analysis to prove the infiltration of the resin into the lesions. The results showed, that the combination technique adds further morphologic information to infiltration behaviour of the resin. The individual volume of early acute lesions versus chronic lesions involving dentin, and the fluorescein bound by resin was well documented in serial sections. The EDX calcium and phosphorus signals correlate negatively with the lesion extension, and the carbon signal correlates positively, thus labelling the resin infiltration. It could be demonstrated that resin infiltration is dependent from the pore volume of the lesion. It can be concluded that the combined polarized light microscopy with fluorescence microscopy is an advantageous tool for studying infiltration of resin into hard tissues.
Collagen bundle morphometry in skin and scar tissue: a novel distance mapping method provides superior measurements compared to Fourier analysis
Authors: VERHAEGEN PAULINE D.H.M. , VAN MARLE JAN , KUEHNE ANDREAS , SCHOUTEN HENNIE J. , GAFFNEY EAMONN A. , MAINI PHILIP K. , MIDDELKOOP ESTHER , VAN ZUIJLEN PAUL P.M.
Published: September 2011

Histopathological evaluations of fibrotic processes require the characterization of collagen morphology in terms of geometrical features such as bundle orientation thickness and spacing. However, there are currently no reliable and valid techniques of measuring bundle thickness and spacing. Hence, two objective methods quantifying the collagen bundle thickness and spacing were tested for their reliability and validity: Fourier first‐order maximum analysis and Distance Mapping, with the latter constituting a newly developed morphometric technique. Histological slides were constructed and imaged from 50 scar and 50 healthy human skin biopsies and subsequently analyzed by two observers to determine the interobserver reliability via the intraclass correlation coefficient. An intraclass correlation coefficient larger than 0.7 is considered as representing good reliability. The interobserver reliability for the Fourier first‐order maximum and for the Distance Mapping algorithms, respectively, showed an intraclass correlation coefficient above 0.72 and 0.89. Additionally, we performed an assessment of validity in the form of responsiveness, in particular, demonstrating medium to excellent results via a calculation of the effect size, highlighting that both methods are sensitive enough to measure a treatment effect in clinical practice. In summary, two reliable and valid measurement methods were demonstrated for collagen bundle morphometry for the first time. Due to its superior reliability and more useful measures (bundle thickness and bundle spacing), Distance Mapping emerges as the preferred and more practical method. Nevertheless, in the future, both methods can be used for reliable and valid collagen morphometry of skin and scars, whereas further applications evaluating the quantitative microscopy of other fibrotic processes are anticipated.
Transient Attenuated Foxp3 Expression on CD4+ T cells Treated with 7D4 mAb Contributes to the Control of Parasite Burden in DBA / 2 Mice Infected with Lethal Plasmodium chabaudi chabaudi AS
Authors: Feng H. , Zhu X. T. , Qi Z. M. , Wang Q. H. , Wang G. G. , Pan Y. Y. , Li Y. , Zheng L. , Jiang Y. J. , Shang H. , Cui L. , Cao Y. M.
Published: September 2011

CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells expressing Foxp3+ play a critical role in maintaining immune homoeostasis and controlling excessive immune responses. However, controversy about the immunoregulatory role of Treg cells exists in malaria studies. Given the role of maintenance of Foxp3 expression in Treg cells’ activities, we investigated whether anti‐CD25 mAb (7D4 clone) treatment affects Foxp3 expression in CD4+ T cells in DBA/2 mice infected with Plasmodium chabaudi chabaudi AS (P. c. chabaudi AS). We found that DBA/2 mice succumbed to P. c. chabaudi AS infection, which was accompanied by increased expression of Foxp3 in CD4+ T cells at the peak parasitemia. In contrast, Foxp3 expression was impaired in CD25‐depleted mice with 7D4 mAb treatment, leading to delayed parasitemia and extended survival of infected mice. Production of IFN‐γ, TNF‐α and IL‐6, as well as NO was significantly enhanced in CD25‐depleted mice. The majority of CD4+ CTLA‐4+ cells expressed high levels of Foxp3 (Foxp3hi cells) in control mice with P. c. chabaudi AS infection. However, the number of CD4+ Foxp3hiCTLA‐4+ cells was reduced in CD25‐depleted mice. Together, these data suggest that CD4+ Foxp3hiCTLA‐4+ cells may be involved in regulating the intensity of pro‐inflammatory responses via CTLA‐4.
Evidence of Saharan dust in upper Pleistocene reworked palaeosols of North‐west Sardinia, Italy: palaeoenvironmental implications
Authors: ANDREUCCI STEFANO , BATEMAN MARK D. , ZUCCA CLAUDIO , KAPUR SELIM , AKŞIT İHSAN , DUNAJKO ADAM , PASCUCCI VINCENZO
Published: September 2011

A multi‐disciplinary approach was followed to investigate two thick palaeosol strata that alternate with wind‐blown dominated deposits developed along the Alghero coast (North‐west Sardinia, Italy). Optically stimulated luminescence ages reveal that both palaeosols were developed during cooler drier periods: the first one at around 70 ka Marine Isotope Stage 4 and the latter around 50 ka (Marine Isotope Stage 3). In contrast, the pedological features indicate that the palaeosols underwent heavy weathering processes under warm humid to sub‐humid conditions, characteristic of the Sardinian climate during the last interglacial stage (Marine Isotope Stage 5e). To reconcile this apparent data discrepancy, a range of sedimentological and pedological analyses were conducted. These analyses reveal that the palaeosols possess a complex history, with accumulation and weathering occurring during Marine Isotope Stage 5e, and erosion, colluviation and final deposition taking place during the following cold stages. Thus, even if these reddish palaeosols were last formed during the glacial period, the sediments building up these strata probably record the climate of the last interglacial stage (Marine Isotope Stage 5e). Trace element and X‐ray diffraction analyses, together with scanning electron microscope images, reveal the presence of Saharan dust in the parent material of the palaeosols. However, no evidence of any far‐travelled African dust has been observed in the Marine Isotope Stage 4–3 aeolian deposits. It is possible to conclude that in the West Mediterranean islands, Saharan dust input, even if of modest magnitude, is preserved preferentially in soils accumulated and weathered during interglacial stages.
An Immunohistochemical Study of Ovarian Follicle Histogenesis in the Early Post‐hatch Japanese Quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Madekurozwa M.‐C.
Published: September 2011

With 6 figures

The early post‐hatch development of immunoreactivity to vimentin, desmin, smooth muscle actin (SMA) and laminin, in relation to follicle histogenesis, was described in this study. Ovigerous cords in day old quails contained pre‐granulosa cells and oocytes. Pre‐granulosa cells at the cortico‐medullary junction were vimentin immunopositive. A laminin immunopositive basement membrane and desmin immunopositive mesenchymal cells lined the ovigerous cords. Ovigerous cords in 3‐day‐old quails contained developing primordial follicles, the vimentin immunopositive pre‐granulosa cells of which were partially encircled by a basement membrane and desmin immunopositive mesenchymal cells. In 5‐ to 7‐day‐old quails, ovigerous cords formed an outer cortical region, while primordial follicles formed the inner cortical region. Early pre‐vitellogenic follicles were present in 9‐ to 13‐day‐old quails. Underlying the granulosa cells of these follicles was a laminin immunopositive basement membrane and a layer of desmin immunopositive thecal cells. Early and late pre‐vitellogenic follicles dominated the ovary in 15‐ to 17‐day‐old quails. The thecal layer in these follicles was desmin immunopositive, but SMA immunonegative. The results of the study have shown that the process of primordial follicle development in the Japanese quail is similar to that reported in mammals. The study suggests that in the quail pre‐granulosa cells originate predominantly from the medulla. The study has shown that, in the Japanese quail, thecal cells are derived from desmin immunopositive mesenchymal cells lining the ovigerous cords.
Host genomics and HCV treatment response
Authors: Clark Paul J , Thompson Alexander J
Published: September 2011

In 2009, an association between the interleukin‐28B (IL28B) polymorphism and treatment outcome for genotype 1 (G1) hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, as well as spontaneous clearance of HCV, was reported. Since the initial publications, over 100 articles have appeared in the peer‐reviewed literature, with many more manuscripts in press and abstracts presented at scientific meetings. Despite the proliferation of data concerning the IL28B polymorphism and HCV infection, there remain many critical unanswered questions about clinical implications and the underlying biological mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the basic principles of genome‐wide association study methodologies that are important for interpreting the results of genetic association studies. We then review the current literature concerning the association between IL28B variants and interferon (IFN) treatment response in patients with chronic HCV infection, as well as spontaneous HCV clearance. We consider the relevance of the IL28B polymorphism to non‐G1 HCV, as well as the special treatment populations of HIV/HCV co‐infection and recurrent HCV post‐liver transplantation. We review current knowledge of the biological mechanisms underlying this genetic association, including the link to liver IFN‐stimulated gene expression, and identify continuing gaps in our knowledge and key research priorities. Finally, pegylated‐IFN and ribavirin is no longer the standard of care for the treatment of G1 HCV, and we conclude by considering the relevance of IL28B polymorphisms in the era of direct‐acting antivirals.
18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography to evaluate recurrent gastric cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Lian‐Ming , Hu Jia‐Ni , Hua Jia , Gu Hai‐Yan , Zhu Jiong , Xu Jian‐Rong
Published: September 2011

Background and Aim:  We aimed to explore the role of the diagnostic accuracy of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F‐FDG PET) in detecting recurrent gastric cancer through a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods:  The MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cancerlit, and Cochrane Library database, from January 2001 to July 2011, were searched for studies evaluating the diagnostic performance of 18F‐FDG PET in detecting recurrent gastric cancer. We determined the sensitivities and specificities across studies, calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR−), and constructed summary receiver operating characteristic curves. We also compared the performance of 18F‐FDG PET with computed tomography (CT) by analyzing studies that had also used these diagnostic methods on the same patients.

Results:  Across nine studies (526 patients), the overall sensitivity of 18F‐FDG PET was 0.78 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.68–0.86), and the overall specificity was 0.82 (95% CI: 0.76–0.87). Overall, LR+ was 3.52 (95% CI: 2.68–4.63) and LR− was 0.32 (95% CI: 0.22–0.46). In studies in which both 18F‐FDG PET and other diagnostic tests were performed, the sensitivity and specificity of 18F‐FDG PET were 0.72 (95% CI: 0.62–0.80) and 0.84 (95% CI: 0.77–0.90), respectively; of contrast CT, they were 0.74 (95% CI: 0.64–0.83) and 0.85 (95% CI: 0.78–0.90), respectively; and of combined PET and CT, they were 0.75 (95% CI: 0.67–0.82) and 0.85 (95% CI 0.79–0.90), respectively. Study sensitivity was not correlated with the prevalence of recurrent gastric cancer.

Conclusion:  18F‐FDG PET has good diagnostic performance in the overall evaluation of recurrent gastric cancer, but still has some limited performance compared with contrast CT. 18F‐FDG PET combined with CT might improve the diagnostic performance in detecting recurrent gastric cancer.
Null genotype of glutathione S‐transferase Tl contributes to colorectal cancer risk in the Asian population: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhong Shan , Yang Jia‐He , Liu Kai , Jiao Bing‐Hua , Chang Zhijie
Published: September 2011

Background and Aim:  Previous studies investigating the association between the glutathione S‐transferase Tl (GSTT1) null genotype and colorectal cancer (CRC) risk in the Asian population have reported controversial results. Thus, a meta‐analysis was performed to clarify the effect of the GSTT1 null genotype on CRC risk in the Asian population.

Methods:  A comprehensive study was conducted, and 12 case‐control studies were finally included, involving a total of 4517 CRC cases and 6607 controls. Subgroup analyses were performed by the sample size.

Results:  A meta‐analysis of all 12 studies showed that the GSTT1 null genotype was significantly associated with an increased CRC risk in the Asian population (odds ratio [OR] = 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02–1.19, the P‐value of the OR [POR] = 0.02, the value of the heterogeneity analysis [I2] = 42%). A more obvious association was observed after the heterogeneity was eliminated by excluding one study (OR = 1.15, 95% CI: 1.06–1.25, POR = 0.001, I2 = 0%). This association was further identified by both subgroup analyses and a sensitivity analysis.

Conclusions:  This meta‐analysis suggests that the GSTT1 null genotype contributes to an increased colorectal cancer risk in the Asian population.
Management of ascites in cirrhosis
Authors: Wong Florence
Published: September 2011

Ascites is a common complication of liver cirrhosis associated with a poor prognosis. The treatment of ascites requires dietary sodium restriction and the judicious use of distal and loop diuretics, sequential at an earlier stage of ascites, and a combination at a later stage of ascites. The diagnosis of refractory ascites requires the demonstration of diuretic non‐responsiveness, despite dietary sodium restriction, or the presence of diuretic‐related complications. Patients with refractory ascites require second‐line treatments of repeat large‐volume paracentesis (LVP) or the insertion of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), and assessment for liver transplantation. Careful patient selection is paramount for TIPS to be successful as a treatment for ascites. Patients not suitable for TIPS insertion should receive LVP. The use of albumin as a volume expander is recommended for LVP of >5–6 L to prevent the development of circulatory dysfunction, although the clinical significance of post‐paracentesis circulatory dysfunction is still debated. Significant mortality is still being observed in cirrhotic patients with ascites and relatively preserved liver and renal function, as indicated by a lower Model for End‐Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score. It is proposed that patients with lower MELD scores and ascites should receive additional points in calculating their priority for liver transplantation. Potential new treatment options for ascites include the use of various vasoconstrictors, vasopressin V2 receptor antagonists, or the insertion of a peritoneo‐vesical shunt, all of which could possibly improve the management of ascites.
Evaluation of oxidative stress in children with congenital heart defects
Authors: Pirinccioglu Ayfer Gözü , Alyan Ömer , Kizil Göksel , Kangin Murat , Beyazit Nurcan
Published: September 2011

Background:  A significant cause of death and chronic illness in childhood is caused by cardiovascular diseases, including congenital heart disease (CHD). This study aims to investigate the oxidative stress status and to establish its association with CHD in children.

Methods:  The study involves measurements of malondialdehyde (MDA), protein carbonyl (PCO), total anti‐oxidant capacity, high‐sensitive C‐reactive protein (hs‐CRP), fibrinogen and cytokine (interleukin [IL‐6] and tumor necrosis factor‐α) levels in 43 children with CHD and 30 healthy age‐matched children.

Results:  MDA, PCO, hs‐CRP, fibrinogen, IL‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐α were significantly elevated while total anti‐oxidant capacity was significantly declined in patients compared with the controls. MDA was positively correlated with PCO, hs‐CRP, Qp/Qs and systolic pulmonary artery pressure. PCO was positively correlated with hs‐CRP, fibrinogen, IL‐6 and systolic pulmonary artery pressure.

Conclusion:  Oxidative stress and its association with other markers in children with CHD was established. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that PCO has been used as a biomarker in CHD and it may be employed as a new diagnostic biomarker in CHD and in the assessment of its severity.
Outcomes of very‐low‐birthweight infants at 3 years of age born in 2003–2004 in Japan
Authors: Kono Yumi , Mishina Jun , Yonemoto Naohiro , Kusuda Satoshi , Fujimura Masanori
Published: September 2011

Background:  The aim of this study was to describe and compare neurodevelopmental outcomes with birthweight (BW) groups at 250‐g intervals of very‐low‐birthweight (VLBW) infants at 3 years of age in a multicenter cohort in Japan.

Methods:  A total of 3104 VLBW infants born in 2003 and 2004 registered in a NICU‐network database were followed in the study. Neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) was defined as any of the following impairments: cerebral palsy, unilateral or bilateral blindness, severe hearing impairment, or developmental delay; a developmental quotient (DQ) <70 measured using the Kyoto Scale of Psychological Development test or judged by physicians in infants without the test.

Results:  A total of 257 infants died and follow‐up data were obtained from 1826 infants. Of the 1826 infants, 155 (8.5%) had cerebral palsy, 25 (1.4%) had visual impairment, and 12 (0.7%) had hearing impairment. Of the 1197 infants in whom DQ was measured, 184 (15.4%) had DQ < 70. The proportion of NDI in the evaluated infants was 19.2% (n= 350), ranging from 11.9% (BW 1251–1500 g) to 42.0% (BW ≤ 500 g). Odds ratios (95%CI) of NDI or death against the group BW 1251–1500 g were 20.62 (13.29–31.97) in BW ≤ 500 g, 7.25 (5.45–9.64) in BW 501–750 g, 2.85 (2.12–3.82) in BW 751–1000 g and 1.18 (0.85–1.64) in BW 1001–1250 g.

Conclusion:  The increasing proportion of NDI or death, an indicator of adverse outcome, was associated with decrement in the BW of the groups. Although we have to consider a bias due to loss of follow‐up data, the incidence of NDI was similar to previous overseas cohort studies despite the higher survival proportion in our study.
Papillary squamotransitional cell carcinoma of the vagina
Authors: Niederle Bernhard , Rauthe Stephan , Engel Jörg B. , Krockenberger Matthias , Dietl Johannes , Honig Arnd
Published: September 2011

A case of a papillary squamotransitional cell carcinoma (PSTCC) of the vagina with a follow‐up of 3 years is presented here. The characteristics of this case support a squamous rather than urothelial origin of this rare entity. Unlike its counterparts in the cervix uteri, the clinical behavior of vaginal PSTCC is more favorable than squamous cell carcinoma. Histological and clinical features are compared to those of previously described cases of vaginal and cervical PSTCC.
Elevation of plasma soluble CD26 levels during pregnancy
Authors: Zhao Shuming , Song Min , Fan Yahan , Chang Qing , Yi Weijing , Li Peng , Hu Chuanmin
Published: September 2011

Aim:  CD26 is a type II transmembrane protein with dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) activity expressed on a variety of cell types. Recent studies have indicated that CD26 or enzymatic activity levels were previously associated with immune‐mediated disorders. As immunoregulation is very important for a successful pregnancy, we hypothesize that CD26 may play an important role during pregnancy, and herein, we sought to determine the association between circulating levels of soluble CD26 (sCD26) and pregnancy outcome.

Material and Methods:  In this study, a stable hybridoma cell line 1F1 was produced by fusion of murine splenocytes and myeloma cells. An indirect competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ic‐ELISA) was developed for the detection of the maternal plasma sCD26. We measured the plasma levels of sCD26 in 80 normal pregnant women and 45 non‐pregnant women.

Results:  Our results indicated that the plasma level of sCD26 was significantly higher in the pregnant group (P < 0.001) than that in the non‐pregnant group.

Conclusion:  These findings hinted that CD26 may play a role in successful pregnancy and it is not an absolute surrogate marker for the Th1‐type immunity as the dominant Th2‐type immunity during pregnancy.