bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study in the Thermodynamic Behavior of Nickel in the MgO‐SiO2‐FeO Slag System
Authors: Park Jin Gyun , Eom Hyung Sub , Huh Wan Wook , Lee Young Seok , Min Dong Joon , Sohn Il
Published: February 2011

The dissolution behavior of nickel in the MgO‐SiO2‐FeO slag system was investigated by using the thermodynamic equilibrium technique. Nickel distribution ratio between molten MgO‐SiO2‐FeO slag and molten Fe‐Ni alloy at 1773 K and 1873 K was measured to understand the dissolution mechanism of nickel into the slags. In particular, the effect of oxygen potential and basicity on the distribution of nickel was investigated. Nickel distribution between slag and Fe‐Ni alloy increased with higher oxygen potential showing a slope of 1/2. For basic slag systems near the olivine saturated composition, the nickel distribution ratio increased with higher basicity and for acidic slag systems near the cristobalite saturated composition, the nickel distribution ratio decreased with higher basicity. Thus, the nickel dissolution into the MgO‐SiO2‐FeO slag system showed two independent mechanisms similar to that found in the CaO‐SiO2‐CaF2 system.

The contour of the iso distribution ratio was represented in the MgO‐SiO2‐FeO ternary phase diagram. From the results, an optimum slag composition was determined to be near the olivine saturated with approximately $X_{MgO} /X_{SiO_{2} } $ of 0.8 at 1773 K and 1.0 at 1873 K.
Influence of Pre‐Straining and Bake Hardening on the Strain Rate Sensitivity of Automotive Sheet Steels
Authors: Larour Patrick , Dahmen Kirsten , Bleck Wolfgang
Published: February 2011

The present investigation deals with the influence of pre‐straining with or without bake hardening on the strain rate sensitivity of automotive sheet steels in typical crash conditions. The strain rate sensitivity m has been determined by means of dynamic tensile tests in the strain rate range 0.005‐1000 s−1 and in the temperature range 233‐373K. A bake hardening heat treatment at 170 °C for 20 min without pre‐straining does not influence the m‐value in comparison to the base material condition. A small pre‐straining near plane strain condition, as commonly found in outer door panels, or a 10% uniaxial, plane strain and biaxial pre‐straining, as typically used in formed automotive crash components, without bake hardening does not affect the m‐value of sheet steels in comparison to the base material condition. Uniaxial 2% to 10% pre‐straining, longitudinal or transverse to rolling direction with subsequent bake hardening, does not clearly change the m‐value in comparison to the base material condition either. Small differences in the strain rate sensitivity behaviour are rather attributed to experimental scattering without real physical background.
Treatment Outcome and Prognosis of Patients with Lymph Node Recurrence of Thoracic Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma After Curative Resection
Authors: Kosuga Toshiyuki , Shiozaki Atsushi , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Ichikawa Daisuke , Okamoto Kazuma , Komatsu Shuhei , Otsuji Eigo
Published: February 2011

Background

This study aimed to assess treatment outcome and factors influencing survival after lymph node recurrence of thoracic esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) after curative resection.

Methods

A total of 207 patients who underwent curative resection of thoracic esophageal SCC between March 1999 and March 2009 were retrospectively analyzed. Of these, lymph node recurrence was observed in 45 (21.7%) patients. Twenty‐nine patients received intensive treatment (radiation therapy, chemoradiotherapy, or lymphadenectomy) directed at recurrent nodes, 9 patients received chemotherapy, and 7 patients received best supportive care (BSC). Treatment outcome and prognostic factors of these patients were investigated.

Results

Patients who received intensive treatment had significantly higher survival rates after recurrence than those who received chemotherapy or BSC (P = 0.0049 and 0.0004, respectively). In univariate analysis of survival after recurrence, the number of recurrent nodes (a single node or multiple nodes), the region of recurrent nodes (limited to a single region or extended to multiple regions), and the presence of simultaneous organ recurrence (present or absent) were prognostic factors (P = 0.0004, 0.0017, and <0.0001, respectively). Multivariate analysis demonstrated that the region of recurrent nodes and simultaneous organ recurrence were independent prognostic factors (P = 0.0396 and 0.0006, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that the region of recurrent nodes (limited to a single region or extended to multiple regions) and simultaneous organ recurrence are factors influencing survival after lymph node recurrence of thoracic esophageal SCC after curative resection.
Preoperative Neutrophil‐to‐Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) is Associated with Reduced Disease‐free Survival Following Curative Resection of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Garcea G. , Ladwa N. , Neal C. P. , Metcalfe M. S. , Dennison A. R. , Berry D. P.
Published: February 2011

Background

Serological proinflammatory markers such as C‐reactive protein (CRP), neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR), and platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) have been associated with reduced survival for many different types of cancer. This study determined the prognostic value of the preoperative value of these markers in patients with resectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma were entered into our database from 2001 to the present day. CRP, NLR, and PLR at the time of presentation were recorded as well as overall and disease‐free survival.

Results

Seventy‐four patients were identified. Overall median survival was 35.0 months and median disease‐free survival was 27.0 months. Follow‐up ranged from 1 to 125.8 months. Preoperative NLR was significantly greater in those patients who developed recurrence in the follow‐up period (4.5 vs. 3.1). CRP and PLR were not found to differ significantly between the two groups. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis of patients with NLR > 5 demonstrated a disease‐free survival of 12 months compared with 52 months for those patients with NLR < 5 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Preoperative NLR offers important prognostic information regarding disease‐free survival following curative resection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Geographical variation in the population dynamics of Thecodiplosis japonensis: causes and effects on spatial synchrony
Authors: Choi Won Il , Ryoo Mun Il , Chung Yeong‐Jin , Park Young‐Seuk
Published: February 2011

Geographical variation in population dynamics of a species offers an opportunity to understand the factors determining observed patterns of spatial dynamics. We evaluated the spatial variation in the population dynamics of the pine needle gall midge (PNGM), Thecodiplosis japonensis, which is a severe insect pest in pine forests in Korea, and studied the influences of weather factors that could affect its population dynamics. Results revealed that PNGM population dynamics were classified into five clusters based on the analysis of autocorrelation function and self‐organizing map, which is an artificial neural network. We also quantified spatial synchrony in the population dynamics of PNGM using the nonparametric covariance function. Variation in spatial synchrony was strongly related to differences in maximum temperature and precipitation in Random Forest analysis, suggesting that the synchrony in PNGM population dynamics is largely the result of the Moran effect. In addition, spatial differences in population dynamics could be influenced by transient process of synchronization following invasion. Finally, the present results indicate that differences in population dynamics can be induced by interactions among several factors such as maximum temperature, precipitation, and invasion history of species.
Identification of alkaptonuria in the general population: a United Kingdom experience describing the challenges, possible solutions and persistent barriers
Authors: Ranganath L. , Taylor A. M. , Shenkin A. , Fraser W. D. , Jarvis J. , Gallagher J. A. , Sireau N.
Published: February 2011

Progress in research into rare diseases is challenging. This paper discusses strategies to identify individuals with the rare genetic disease alkaptonuria (AKU) within the general population. Strategies used included a questionnaire survey of general practitioners, a dedicated website and patient network contact, targeted family screening and medical conference targeting. Primary care physicians of the UK were targeted by a postal survey that involved mailing 11,151 UK GPs; the response rate was 18.2%. We have identified 75 patients in the UK with AKU by the following means: postal survey (23), targeted family screening (11), patient networks and the website (41). Targeting medical conferences (AKU, rare diseases, rheumatology, clinical biochemistry, orthopaedics, general practitioners) did not lead to new identification in the UK but helped identify overseas cases. We are now aware of 626 patients worldwide including newly identified non‐UK people with AKU in the following areas: Slovakia (208), the rest of Europe (including Turkey) (79), North America (including USA and Canada) (110), and the rest of the world (154). A mechanism for identifying individuals with AKU in the general population—not just in the UK but worldwide—has been established. Knowledge of patients with AKU, both in the UK and outside, is often confined to establishing their location in a particular GP practice or association with a particular medical professional. Mere identification, however, does not always lead to full engagement for epidemiological research purposes or targeting treatment since further barriers exist.
Postoperative Delirium in Elderly Patients after Elective Hip or Knee Arthroplasty Performed under Regional Anesthesia
Authors: Rade Matthew C. , YaDeau Jacques T. , Ford Carey , Reid M. C.
Published: February 2011

Delirium is a major adverse postoperative event in elderly patients. Incidence rates of postoperative delirium are difficult to determine. Because of the accuracy, brevity, and ease of use by clinical interviewers, the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) has become widely used. This study used the CAM to determine the rate of postoperative delirium in patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedures under regional anesthesia. Following Institutional Review Board approval, a prospective study of 20 patients per group ages 70 and above undergoing unilateral THA or TKA was initiated. Both groups received a combined spinal–epidural, postoperative patient-controlled epidural anesthesia, and postoperative oral opioids. Patient interviews occurred five times: once preoperatively and two times each on postoperative days 1 and 2. Only two patients were assessed as delirious according to the CAM method (one in each group; 5%). Patient assessment by other clinicians indicated that five additional patients experienced acute change in mental status; however, these patients were not delirious at the times of the study interviews. The rate of delirium in the elderly after arthroplasty performed under regional anesthesia is very low. Reasons for this include patient selection criteria and anesthesia type. The study excluded patients with several proposed risk factors for postoperative delirium: prior history of dementia, history of mental illness, and use of benzodiazepines. The use of regional anesthesia may have also reduced the occurrence of postoperative delirium.
Community composition and diversity of twoLimaria hians(Mollusca: Limacea) beds on the west coast of Scotland
Authors: Trigg Colin , Harries Dan , Lyndon Alastair , Moore Colin G.
Published: February 2011

Limaria hiansfunctions as a keystone species in construction of a highly diverse biogenic habitat. An investigation to quantify the biodiversity of twoL. hiansbeds was carried out during the winter and summer seasons at two sites on the west coast of Scotland. Cores were taken semi-randomly through 100%L. hiansnest material, organisms removed, identified and enumerated. Univariate and multivariate analyses of the data were used to establish temporal and locational differences. A total of 7275 individuals were found representing 282 species from 16 phyla. Univariate analysis revealed significant differences between the species richness of the two populations, whilst multivariate analysis illustrated differences in the assemblage compositions between sites and times. This study showed that in terms of richness and diversity these beds are among the most important biogenic habitats in the UK.
Interdisciplinary perspectives on historical ecology and environmental policy in Papua New Guinea
Authors: FILER COLIN
Published: February 2011

Papua New Guinea (PNG) has been the site of a great deal of scientific work, and a fair amount of interdisciplinary debate, within the broad field of historical ecology, which encompasses the study of indigenous society-environment relationships over different time periods. However, this in itself provides no guarantee that scientists engaged in such debate will have a greater influence on the formulation of environmental conservation policies in a state where indigenous decision makers now hold the levers of political power. Five environmental policy paradigms which have emerged in the course of public debate about environmental conservation in PNG over the past half century; the wildlife management, environmental planning, biodiversity conservation, ecosystem assessment, and carbon sequestration paradigms. Each paradigm has framed a distinctive form of interdisciplinary debate about indigenous society-environment relationships within a contemporary political framework. However, a further connection can be drawn between the role of interdisciplinary debate in an evolving national policy framework and the history of scientific debate about the nature of indigenous society-environment relationships in the pre-colonial era. This connection places a distinctive emphasis on the relationship between indigenous agricultural practices and management of the national forest estate for reasons which are themselves a contingent effect of the nature of European colonial intervention over the course of the last century and a half. This particular bias in the relationship between historical ecology and environmental policy has lasted down to the present day. PNG's environmental policy problems are unlikely to have any rational or sensible solution in the absence of a better scientific understanding of the complexity of indigenous society-environment relationships. Scientists need to understand the complexity of the environmental policy process as a historical process in its own right in order to work out which policy problems offer both the scope and the incentive to sustain specific forms of interdisciplinary debate that are likely to produce better policy outcomes.
Comparative metagenomics of microbial traits within oceanic viral communities
Authors: Sharon Itai , Battchikova Natalia , Aro Eva-Mari , Giglione Carmela , Meinnel Thierry , Glaser Fabian , Pinter Ron Y , Breitbart Mya , Rohwer Forest , Béjà Oded
Published: February 2011

Viral genomes often contain genes recently acquired from microbes. In some cases (for example, psbA) the proteins encoded by these genes have been shown to be important for viral replication. In this study, using a unique search strategy on the Global Ocean Survey (GOS) metagenomes in combination with marine virome and microbiome pyrosequencing-based datasets, we characterize previously undetected microbial metabolic capabilities concealed within the genomes of uncultured marine viral communities. A total of 34 microbial gene families were detected on 452 viral GOS scaffolds. The majority of auxiliary metabolic genes found on these scaffolds have never been reported in phages. Host genes detected in viruses were mainly divided between genes encoding for different energy metabolism pathways, such as electron transport and newly identified photosystem genes, or translation and post-translation mechanism related. Our findings suggest previously undetected ways, in which marine phages adapt to their hosts and improve their fitness, including translation and post-translation level control over the host rather than the already known transcription level control.
Effects of Lactic Acid Infusions and pH on Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism
Authors: Laptook Abbot R. , Peterson Janet , Porter A. Michael
Published: February 2011

To determine the effects of lactic acidemia versus lactate on CBF, we infused lactic acid, either buffered with NaOH (L + NaOH) or with added NaCl (L + NaCl), to attain similar osmolalities in 18 piglets. CBF (microsphere technique), pH, blood gases, plasma osmolality, and cerebral arteriovenous differences of O2 content and lactic acid concentrations were measured prior to, at 30 min of a lactic acid infusion, and 15 and 90 min after completion of the infusion. Control arterial pH was comparable between groups (7.50 ± 0.02 vs. 7.49 ± 0.02, X̄ ± SE); during and following L + NaCl and L + NaOH, values were (p < 0.05) 7.09 ± 0.03, 7.35 ± 0.02, and 7.46 ± 0.02 vs. 7.58 ± 0.03,7.61 ± 0.01, and 7.57 ± 0.03, respectively. PaCO2 remained unchanged and osmolality rose by 15% in both groups during infusions and persisted throughout the study period. For L + NaCl piglets, CBF (ml/min · 100 g) rose from 136 ± 15 to 198 ±26 (p < 0.05) at 30 min of infusion and remained elevated at 201 ± 25 and 207 ± 28 at 15 and 90 min following the infusion, respectively. Similarly, for L + NaOH piglets, CBF rose from 130 ± 25 to 196 ±31 (p < 0.05) with the infusion and was 174 ± 17 and 166 ± 21 at 15 and 90 min afterward, respectively. Although lactic acid infusion increases CBF, the associated metabolic acidemia is not responsible for changes in CBF.
Vasomotor Responses of Rat Intracerebral Arterioles to Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide, Substance P, Neuropeptide Y, and Bradykinin
Authors: Dacey Ralph G. , Bassett John E. , Takayasu Masakazu
Published: February 2011

The effect of vasoactive peptides on vascular smooth muscle in the cerebral microcirculation was examined using an isolated intracerebral arteriole preparation. Extraluminally applied vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) dilated the spontaneous tone of intracerebral arterioles to 118.9 ± 3.1% of control diameter at pH 7.30, with an EC50 of 7.27 × 10−8 M. Similar degrees of dilation to VIP were seen in vessels preconstricted by changing bath solution to pH 7.60. Substance P had no effect on vessel diameter at pH 7.30. However, in vessels precontracted by pH 7.60, significant dose-dependent dilation was observed with an EC50 of 2.55 × 10−10 M. Neuropeptide constricted intracerebral arterioles to 8l.22 ± 2.7% of control diameter, with an EC50 of 6.23 × 10−10 M. Bradykinin dilated intracerebral arterioles at pH 7.30 and pH 7.60 to 130 ± 3.0% of control diameter. VIP and bradykinin are potent vasodilators of intracerebral arterioles. Neuropeptide Y is a vasoconstrictor. The effect of substance P appeared to be either pH-dependent or dependent on some degree of precontraction by another agonist, but no effect on vessel diameter was seen at pH 7.30.
Brain Enzyme Levels in CSF after Cardiac Arrest and Resuscitation in Dogs: Markers of Damage and Predictors of Outcome
Authors: Vaagenes Per , Safar Peter , Diven Warren , Moossy John , Rao Gutti , Cantadore Rinaldo , Kelsey Sheryl
Published: February 2011

Levels of brain creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), and lactate dehydrogenase (LD) in CSF after cardiac arrest were studied in dog models. Ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest lasting 10 min or asphyxiation cardiac arrest lasting 0–10 min was followed by cardiopulmonary resuscitation and 96-h intensive care. Outcome was scored as neurologic deficit (0% = normal, 100% = brain death) and overall performance category (1 = normal, 5 = death). Both measures correlated with EEG return time after asphyxiation cardiac arrest, but not after ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest. Peak activity of enzymes in CSF at 48–72 h post arrest correlated with outcome, and CK was the best predictor. Brain histopathologic damage score at autopsy 96 h post arrest correlated with CK level in CSF ( r = 0.79, n = 39) and neurologic deficit ( r = 0.70, n = 50). Ischemic neuronal changes occurred after ventricular fibrillation cardiac arrest of 10 min, and neuronal changes plus microinfarcts occurred after asphyxiation cardiac arrest of 1.5–10 min. Brain enzymes were decreased at 6 h post arrest in regions with worst histologic damage (gray matter of neocortex, hippocampus, caudate nucleus, cerebellum). Brain CK decreased further, ASAT remained low, and LD increased at 72 h after arrest. The temporal changes in CK level paralleled the temporal ischemic neuronal changes in the brain, and time to peak activity was unaffected by the severity of the ischemic insult. Peak activity of individual enzymes in CSF was determined predominantly by the brain concentration, but was also influenced by rate of decomposition. This “chemical brain biopsy method” represents a useful adjunctive tool to predict permanent, severe brain damage during comatose states after cardiac arrest and resuscitation.
19F Imaging of Cerebral Blood Oxygenation in Experimental Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion: Preliminary Results
Authors: Eidelberg D. , Johnson G. , Tofts P. S. , Dobbin J. , Crockard H. A. , Plummer D.
Published: February 2011

Fluorine (19F) nuclear magnetic resonance may be used to image cerebral perfusion in cats receiving perfluorocarbon blood substitutes. 19F relaxation times in these blood substitutes are dependent on oxygen tension (Po2) and may be used to calculate and spatially map cerebrovascular Po2 values in vivo. We have applied this noninvasive method to experimental middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusion. Following MCA occlusion a perfusion defect is evident in the sylvian region, followed by the appearance of collaterals. Signal from the ipsilateral rete mirabilis is increased. Calculated cortical vascular Po2 values indicate a relative reduction in oxygenation in the ischaemic hemisphere. Po2 maps show a perfused hypoxaemic zone adjacent to the perfusion defect. These changes are partly reversed with reperfusion.
Quantitative Evaluation of Vascular Permeability in the Gerbil Brain after Transient Ischemia Using Evans Blue Fluorescence
Authors: Uyama Osamu , Okamura Nobutaka , Yanase Masahiro , Narita Mitsuhiro , Kawabata Keita , Sugita Minoru
Published: February 2011

Mongolian gerbils were used to evaluate brain edema during restoration of flow following bilateral carotid occlusion for 1 h. We have modified the method for fluorometric measurement of Evans blue to monitor vascular protein leakage (vasogenic edema). The extraction of extravasated Evans blue was performed by homogenizing the whole brain in 50% trichloroacetic acid. The supernatant was diluted fourfold with ethanol and the Evans blue fluorescence was measured. The tissue blank was negligible. Evans blue content of the plasma was similarly determined and the ratio of tissue to plasma Evans blue content was calculated. Furthermore, Evans blue fluorescence was used for microscopic investigation. It is suggested that Evans blue fluorescence can be applied for quantification of protein leakage with much more sensitivity and accuracy than the colorimetric absorbance method, as well as for tissue localization of protein leakage.
Bone Age Advancement in Prepubertal Children With Obesity and Premature Adrenarche: Possible Potentiating Factors
Authors: Sopher Aviva B. , Jean Amy M. , Zwany Sarah K. , Winston Diana M. , Pomeranz Christy B. , Bell Jennifer J. , McMahon Donald J. , Hassoun Abeer , Fennoy Ilene , Oberfield Sharon E.
Published: February 2011

Obesity and premature adrenarche (PA) are both associated with bone age (BA) advancement of unclear etiology, which may lead to earlier puberty, suboptimal final height and obesity in adulthood. Our objective was to understand the hormonal and anthropometric characteristics of BA advancement in a spectrum of prepubertal children with and without obesity and PA. In this cross‐sectional study of 66 prepubertal children (35 PA, 31 control, 5–9 years), BMI z‐score, hormonal values and response to an oral glucose tolerance test were the main outcome measures. Subjects were divided into tertiles by BA divided by chronological age (BA/CA), an index of BA advancement. Subjects in the top tertile for BA/CA had the highest dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), free testosterone (%), hemoglobin A1C, BMI z‐score, and weight (P < 0.05). BMI z‐score (r = 0.47), weight (r = 0.40), free testosterone (%) (r = 0.34), and DHEAS (r = 0.30) correlated with BA/CA (P < 0.02). Regression analysis showed greater BA/CA in PA compared to controls after controlling for weight (0.21 ± 0.56, P < 0.004). An exploratory stepwise regression model showed that weight, estradiol, and DHEAS were the strongest predictors of BA/CA accounting for 24% of its variance. Obesity was highly associated with BA advancement in this study of prepubertal children. In addition, children with PA had greater BA/CA at any given weight when compared to controls. These findings suggest a possible hormonal factor, which potentiates the effect of obesity on BA advancement in children with obesity and/or PA.
Obesity Duration Is Associated to Pulmonary Function Impairment in Obese Subjects
Authors: Santamaria Francesca , Montella Silvia , Greco Luigi , Valerio Giuliana , Franzese Adriana , Maniscalco Mauro , Fiorentino Giuseppe , Peroni Diego , Pietrobelli Angelo , De Stefano Sara , Sperlì Francesco , Boner Attilio L.
Published: February 2011

Obesity is associated with pulmonary function disturbances. We hypothesized that lung function decreases with increasing duration of obesity. We evaluated pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in 188 nonsmoking subjects with primary obesity (aged 8–76 years; 36% with systemic hypertension). Duration of obesity was assessed by questionnaire in adults, and by height and weight growth patterns in children. Asthma and/or other allergic diseases were investigated by standardized questionnaires. BMI and BMI‐standard deviation scores (SDS) were 38.7 and 2.4 kg/m2, respectively. Forty‐six percent of patients were atopic. Among subjects with ever asthma (33%), 20 had current asthma (11% of the total). Forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s, total lung capacity (TLC), and functional residual capacity (FRC) were 103, 104, 95, and 76% predicted, respectively. Mean duration of obesity was 8.3 years. Compared with subjects who had been obese for ≤5 years, patients who had been obese for >15 years had significantly lower values on PFTs (P < 0.05). In subjects with systemic hypertension, PFTs were lower than in patients without hypertension (P < 0.01). Duration of obesity was significantly related to all PFTs (P ≤ 0.001). In a multiple regression analysis where duration and severity of obesity, hypertension, atopy, asthma, and family history of atopic diseases were independent variables, duration of obesity was a predictor of lower PFTs (P < 0.01). Of the remaining variables, only hypertension contributed to lower lung volumes. In obese individuals, lung function was significantly lower in subjects with greater years of obesity. Fat loss programs should be encouraged to prevent late pulmonary function impairment.
Hemojuvelin: A New Link Between Obesity and Iron Homeostasis
Authors: Luciani Nathalie , Brasse‐Lagnel Carole , Poli Maura , Anty Rodolphe , Lesueur Celine , Cormont Mireille , Laquerriere Annie , Folope Vanessa , LeMarchand‐Brustel Yannick , Gugenheim Jean , Gual Philippe , Tran Albert , Bekri Soumeya
Published: February 2011

The adipose tissue may play an active role in systemic iron regulation and this role may be determinant in obese patients. Indeed, we reported previously that hepcidin, the iron‐regulatory hormone, is expressed in adipose tissue and its messenger RNA (mRNA) expression is increased in adipose tissue of morbidly obese patients. The objectives of this study were to characterize the status of hemojuvelin (HJV), another iron‐regulatory protein, within the adipose tissue of morbidly obese patients. Since cell‐associated HJV acts as a coreceptor of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) to enhance hepcidin expression in liver cells, we investigated the possible involvement of this pathway in adipose tissue in regulating hepcidin expression. HJV expression was studied in adipose tissue of morbidly obese patients. Soluble HJV blood concentrations were assessed. Hepcidin regulation through BMP pathway was investigated in cultured adipocytes. HJV was expressed both at mRNA and protein levels in adipose tissue. Moreover, its mRNA expression was highly increased in adipose tissue of obese patients and correlated with mRNA hepcidin expression levels. Interestingly, HJV expressed by adipose tissue may be effective since cultured adipocytes increased their hepcidin expression when challenged with BMP2 through Smad effectors. In addition, blood concentrations of soluble HJV were significantly increased. In conclusion, adipose tissue may influence iron homeostasis in obese patients by expressing major iron‐regulatory proteins and the BMP signaling pathway could be involved in regulating hepcidin expression in this tissue.
Elevated BMI Is Associated With Decreased Blood Flow in the Prefrontal Cortex Using SPECT Imaging in Healthy Adults
Authors: Willeumier Kristen C. , Taylor Derek V. , Amen Daniel G.
Published: February 2011

Obesity is a risk factor for stroke and neurodegenerative disease. Excess body fat has been linked to impaired glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, and impulsivity and may be a precursor to decline in attention and executive cognitive function. Here, we investigated the effects of high BMI on regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) using single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging in healthy subjects. A total of 16 adult men and 20 adult women were recruited from the community between January 2003 and July 2009 as part of a healthy brain study (HBS) conducted at the Amen Clinics, a private medical facility. Participants in the study were screened to exclude medical, neurological, and psychiatric conditions, including substance abuse. Subjects were categorized as normal or overweight according to BMI. Using a two sample t‐test, we determined the effects of BMI on rCBF in normal vs. overweight subjects. Subjects were matched for age and gender. Statistical parametric mapping (SPM) revealed a higher BMI in healthy individuals that is associated with decreased rCBF in Broadmann areas 8, 9, 10, 11, 32, and 44, brain regions involved in attention, reasoning, and executive function (P < 0.05, corrected for multiple comparisons). We found that an elevated BMI is associated with decreased rCBF in the prefrontal cortex of a healthy cohort. These results indicate that elevated BMI may be a risk factor for decreased prefrontal cortex function and potentially impaired executive function.
Fungi and fire in Australian ecosystems: a review of current knowledge, management implications and future directions
Authors: McMullan-Fisher Sapphire J. M. , May Tom W. , Robinson Richard M. , Bell Tina L. , Lebel Teresa , Catcheside Pam , York Alan
Published: February 2011

Fungi are essential components of all ecosystems in roles including symbiotic partners, decomposers and nutrient cyclers and as a source of food for vertebrates and invertebrates. Fire changes the environment in which fungi live by affecting soil structure, nutrient availability, organic and inorganic substrates and other biotic components with which fungi interact, particularly mycophagous animals. We review the literature on fire and fungi in Australia, collating studies that include sites with different time since fire or different fire regimes. The studies used a variety of methods for survey and identification of fungi and focussed on different groups of fungi, with an emphasis on fruit-bodies of epigeal macrofungi and a lack of studies on microfungi in soil or plant tissues. There was a lack of replication of fire treatment effects in some studies. Nevertheless, most studies reported some consequence of fire on the fungal community. Studies on fire and fungi were concentrated in eucalypt forest in south-west and south-eastern Australia, and were lacking for ecosystems such as grasslands and tropical savannahs. The effects of fire on fungi are highly variable and depend on factors such as soil and vegetation type and variation in fire intensity and history, including the length of time between fires. There is a post-fire flush of fruit-bodies of pyrophilous macrofungi, but there are also fungi that prefer long unburnt vegetation. The few studies that tested the effect of fire regimes in relation to the intervals between burns did not yield consistent results. The functional roles of fungi in ecosystems and the interactions of fire with these functions are explained and discussed. Responses of fungi to fire are reviewed for each fungal trophic group, and also in relation to interactions between fungi and vertebrates and invertebrates. Recommendations are made to include monitoring of fungi in large-scale fire management research programs and to integrate the use of morphological and molecular methods of identification. Preliminary results suggest that fire mosaics promote heterogeneity in the fungal community. Management of substrates could assist in preserving fungal diversity in the absence of specific information on fungi.
Calycinal trichomes in Ipomoea cairica (Convolvulaceae): ontogenesis, structure and functional aspects
Authors: Paiva Elder Antônio Sousa , Martins Luiza Coutinho
Published: February 2011

The presence of calycinal trichomes in Ipomoea has been neglected, which renders the interpretation of their functions difficult. The present work aims to characterise the structure, as well as the composition of the secretion of calycinal trichomes in Ipomoea cairica, in order to establish a relationship between their structure and function. Samples of floral buds at different developmental stages and sepals from fruits were collected and fixed for study under light as well as under scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The calyx of I. cairica is persistent and presents glandular trichomes which produce acidic polysaccharides. The trichomes are peltate and consist of a short stalk and a pluricellular secretory portion. The cells from the secretory portion contain a dense and organelle-rich cytoplasm. The fresh secretion is hyaline and fluid, but solidifies when exposed to low humidity, taking on a crystalline and fragile aspect, and they return to a gel state when in the presence of water. The calycinal trichomes in I. cairica show great structural and ultrastructural similarities to colleters and can be considered functionally analogous. The secretion, which is highly hygroscopic, spreads along the surface of the corolla and of the fruit, apparently protecting these structures against desiccation.
Factors affecting somatic embryogenesis and transformation in modern plant breeding
Authors: Deo Pradeep C. , Tyagi Anand P. , Taylor Mary , Harding Rob , Becker Doug
Published: February 2011

Somatic embryogenesis and transformation systems are indispensable modern plant breeding components since they provide an alternative platform to develop control strategies against the plethora of pests and diseases affecting many agronomic crops. This review discusses some of the factors affecting somatic embryogenesis and transformation, highlights the advantages and limitations of these systems and explores these systems as breeding tools for the development of crops with improved agronomic traits. The regeneration of non-chimeric transgenic crops through somatic embryogenesis with introduced disease and pest-resistant genes for instance, would be of significant benefit to growers
worldwide.
Detection of urinary schistosomiasis among school age children in Ukwuani L.G.A of Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Igumbor E. O. , Ojo S. K. S. , Olateru-Olagbegi A.
Published: February 2011

Schistosomiasis is a water-borne disease also known as bilharziasis or snail fever. It is a major disease of public health and the second most prevalent tropical disease after malaria. This study was carried out to detect the prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis among school children in Ukwuani L.G.A of Delta State, Nigeria. Urine samples (n=280) were collected from 9 volunteered primary and post-primary schools between May and July, 2009. Centrifuge concentration technique was used in the analysis of urine samples for the eggs of Schistosoma haematobium. 16 (5.71%) were infected with the parasite with males having a slightly high prevalence rate of 10 (3.57%) than females 6 (2.14%). Males within the age group of 11-20 were found to have the highest rate (2.14%) compared with their females (1.43%). This result is indicative of low visit to the hospital following infection of any kind and the source of drinking water in the community was poor. Many of these children engage in different water activities such as fishing, swimming, washing and fetching of water. The statistical analysis using T-test (P<0.05) showed no significant difference in the prevalence rate between age and sex. Therefore regular health education on the possible transmission of this parasite and community based treatment should be embarked upon in the school and community so as to curtail the spread and re-infection of individuals.
Effect of ratoon stunting disease (RSD) on sugarcane yield in Fiji
Authors: Johnson S. S. , Tyagi A. P.
Published: February 2011

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) ratoon stunting disease (RSD) caused by bacterium Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli
causes huge (29% or more) in sugarcane ratoon crops. It cost farmers thousands of dollars. A study was conducted to minimize these losses using various hot-water treatments to sugarcane sets before sowing in the field. The differences in cane yield were recorded with all the treatments in the cane yield loss experiment but the differences were not statistically significant. It was observed that the only notable effect of the disease was on the cane yield but very little effect on the sugar and percent of pure obtainable cane sugar (% POCS). The cane yield for the plant (first crop) and subsequent ratoon crops (third year, fourth year, etc.) differed with an average reduction of 37% but the average loss caused by RSD was 29%. Out of the two hot water treatments the best duration of hot water treatment was identified as 2 hours at 50°C because it gave a higher average yield compared to the control (untreated) and 3 hours at 50°C. Three hour duration seems to affect germination of sets and thus total plant population which eventually results in low yield of sugarcane and thus total pure obtainable cane sugar (POAC).
Selective pharmacogenetic inhibition of mammalian target of Rapamycin complex I (mTORC1) blocks long-term synaptic plasticity and memory storage
Authors: Stoica Loredana , Zhu Ping Jun , Huang Wei , Zhou Hongyi , Kozma Sara C. , Costa-Mattioli Mauro
Published: February 2011

Both the formation of long-term memory (LTM) and late-long-term potentiation (L-LTP), which is thought to represent the cellular model of learning and memory, require de novo protein synthesis. The mammalian target of Rapamycin (mTOR) complex I (mTORC1) integrates information from various synaptic inputs and its best characterized function is the regulation of translation. Although initial studies have shown that rapamycin reduces L-LTP and partially blocks LTM, recent genetic and pharmacological evidence indicating that mTORC1 promotes L-LTP and LTM is controversial. Thus, the role of mTORC1 in L-LTP and LTM is unclear. To selectively inhibit mTORC1 activity in the adult brain, we used a “pharmacogenetic” approach that relies on the synergistic action of a drug (rapamycin) and a genetic manipulation (mTOR heterozygotes,
mTOR
+/−
mice) on the same target (mTORC1). Although L-LTP and LTM are normal in
mTOR
+/−
mice, application of a low concentration of rapamycin—one that is subthreshold for WT mice—prevented L-LTP and LTM only in
mTOR
+/−
mice. Furthermore, we found that mTORC1-mediated translational control is required for memory reconsolidation. We provide here direct genetic evidence supporting the role of mTORC1 in L-LTP and behavioral memory.
The pINDUCER lentiviral toolkit for inducible RNA interference in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Meerbrey Kristen L. , Hu Guang , Kessler Jessica D. , Roarty Kevin , Li Mamie Z. , Fang Justin E. , Herschkowitz Jason I. , Burrows Anna E. , Ciccia Alberto , Sun Tingting , Schmitt Earlene M. , Bernardi Ronald J. , Fu Xiaoyong , Bland Christopher S. , Cooper Thomas A. , Schiff Rachel , Rosen Jeffrey M. , Westbrook Thomas F. , Elledge Stephen J.
Published: February 2011

The discovery of RNAi has revolutionized loss-of-function genetic studies in mammalian systems. However, significant challenges still remain to fully exploit RNAi for mammalian genetics. For instance, genetic screens and in vivo studies could be broadly improved by methods that allow inducible and uniform gene expression control. To achieve this, we built the lentiviral pINDUCER series of expression vehicles for inducible RNAi in vivo. Using a multicistronic design, pINDUCER vehicles enable tracking of viral transduction and shRNA or cDNA induction in a broad spectrum of mammalian cell types in vivo. They achieve this uniform temporal, dose-dependent, and reversible control of gene expression across heterogenous cell populations via fluorescence-based quantification of reverse tet-transactivator expression. This feature allows isolation of cell populations that exhibit a potent, inducible target knockdown in vitro and in vivo that can be used in human xenotransplantation models to examine cancer drug targets.
The International Certification of Addiction Medicine: Validating Clinical Knowledge across Borders
Authors: el-Guebaly Nady , Violato Claudio
Published: February 2011

The experience of the International Society of Addiction Medicine in setting up the first international certification of clinical knowledge is reported. The steps followed and the results of a psychometric analysis of the tests from the first 65 candidates are reported. Lessons learned in the first 5 years and challenges for the future are identified.
Developing a Competence-Based Addiction Medicine Curriculum in Indonesia: The Training Needs Assessment
Authors: Pinxten W. J. L. , De Jong C. , Hidayat T. , Istiqomah A. N. , Achmad Y. M. , Raya R. P. , Norviatin D. , Siregar I. M. P.
Published: February 2011

Indonesia has one of the fastest growing, injecting drugs user–driven, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemics in Asia. Coverage of needle and syringe programs (NSPs), opioid substitution therapy (OST), and antiretroviral treatment (ART) is increasing, but is still low, whereas professional training in addiction medicine is not yet established. Urgent development and scaling-up of professional capacity in comprehensive, evidence-based addiction medicine is needed. In this article the results of the first step is presented, being the training needs assessment (TNA) and the process of further developing a national evidence- and competence-based addiction medicine curriculum in Indonesia.
The Master in Addiction Medicine Program in the Netherlands
Authors: De Jong Cornelis , Luycks Lonneke , Delicat Jan-Wilm
Published: February 2011

Since 2007 there is a full-time, 2-year professional training in addiction medicine in the Netherlands. The aim of this article is to describe in detail the development and present status of the Dutch Master in Addiction Medicine (MiAM) program. In this competency-based professional training, theoretical courses are integrated with learning in clinical practice under guidance of an experienced clinical teacher. The theoretical courses consist of evidence-based medicine, communication and basic psychotherapeutic skills, neurobiology of addiction, addiction medicine, addiction and psychiatry, and public health. The 7 main competencies are made ready for operation in the personal education plan and are evaluated by different styles of examination.
CK1 activates minus-end–directed transport of membrane organelles along microtubules
Authors: Ikeda Kazuho , Zhapparova Olga , Brodsky Ilya , Semenova Irina , Tirnauer Jennifer S. , Zaliapin Ilya , Rodionov Vladimir
Published: February 2011

Microtubule (MT)-based organelle transport is driven by MT motor proteins that move cargoes toward MT minus-ends clustered in the cell center (dyneins) or plus-ends extended to the periphery (kinesins). Cells are able to rapidly switch the direction of transport in response to external cues, but the signaling events that control switching remain poorly understood. Here, we examined the signaling mechanism responsible for the rapid activation of dynein-dependent MT minus-end–directed pigment granule movement in Xenopus melanophores (pigment aggregation). We found that, along with the previously identified protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), pigment aggregation signaling also involved casein kinase 1ε (CK1ε), that both enzymes were bound to pigment granules, and that their activities were increased during pigment aggregation. Furthermore we found that CK1ε functioned downstream of PP2A in the pigment aggregation signaling pathway. Finally, we discovered that stimulation of pigment aggregation increased phosphorylation of dynein intermediate chain (DIC) and that this increase was partially suppressed by CK1ε inhibition. We propose that signal transduction during pigment aggregation involves successive activation of PP2A and CK1ε and CK1ε-dependent phosphorylation of DIC, which stimulates dynein motor activity and increases minus-end–directed runs of pigment granules.
Inflammation Confers Dual Effects on Nociceptive Processing in Chronic Neuropathic Pain Model
Authors: Liou Jiin-Tarng , Liu Fu-Chao , Mao Chih-Chieh , Lai Ying-Shu , Day Yuan-Ji
Published: February 2011

Background

Although inflammation induces pain, immune cells also produce mediators that can effectively counteract it. To further elucidate the role of the immune response, we analyzed the relationship of pain behavior, several inflammatory signals, and opioid peptides using partial sciatic nerve ligation in mice at different levels of immunocompromise.

Methods

Sciatic nerves of C57BL/6C, nonobese diabetic (NOD), or nonobese diabetic-severe combined immune deficiency (NOD-SCID) mice were partially ligated. Responses to mechanical and radiant heat stimuli were observed. Inflammation was detected by immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry. Inflammatory cytokines and opioid peptides were analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay or immunostaining.

Results

Inflammation in immunocompromised mice was subordinate when compared with that seen in C57BL/6C mice. In addition, immunocompromised mice had less pain hypersensitivity at early stages. Whereas proinflammatory tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ), as well as antiinflammatory interleukin 1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), interleukin 4 (IL-4), interleukin 10 (IL-10), and interleukin 13 (IL-13) cytokine expression and protein were increased in C57BL/6C mice, they were lower in immunocompromised mice. Although enkephalin, dynorphin, and β-endorphin messenger RNA expression also increased in C57BL/6C mice, peaking on day 14, this result was not observed in immunocompromised mice.

Conclusion

The contribution of inflammation to nerve injury is complex with biphasic modulation. During the early phase, a wide range of proinflammatory cytokines are released, leading to enhanced pain. In contrast, the analgesic effect of opioid peptides and antiinflammatory cytokines was more predominate in the later phases of injury, leading to attenuated pain responses.