bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MIReNA: finding microRNAs with high accuracy and no learning at genome scale and from deep sequencing data
Authors: Mathelier Anthony , Carbone Alessandra
Published: July 2010

Motivation: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of endogenes derived from a precursor (pre-miRNA) and involved in post-transcriptional regulation. Experimental identification of novel miRNAs is difficult because they are often transcribed under specific conditions and cell types. Several computational methods were developed to detect new miRNAs starting from known ones or from deep sequencing data, and to validate their pre-miRNAs.

Results: We present a genome-wide search algorithm, called MIReNA, that looks for miRNA sequences by exploring a multidimensional space defined by only five (physical and combinatorial) parameters characterizing acceptable pre-miRNAs. MIReNA validates pre-miRNAs with high sensitivity and specificity, and detects new miRNAs by homology from known miRNAs or from deep sequencing data. A performance comparison between MIReNA and four available predictive systems has been done. MIReNA approach is strikingly simple but it turns out to be powerful at least as much as more sophisticated algorithmic methods. MIReNA obtains better results than three known algorithms that validate pre-miRNAs. It demonstrates that machine-learning is not a necessary algorithmic approach for pre-miRNAs computational validation. In particular, machine learning algorithms can only confirm pre-miRNAs that look alike known ones, this being a limitation while exploring species with no known pre-miRNAs. The possibility to adapt the search to specific species, possibly characterized by specific properties of their miRNAs and pre-miRNAs, is a major feature of MIReNA. A parameter adjustment calibrates specificity and sensitivity in MIReNA, a key feature for predictive systems, which is not present in machine learning approaches. Comparison of MIReNA with miRDeep using deep sequencing data to predict miRNAs highlights a highly specific predictive power of MIReNA.

Availability: At the address http://www.ihes.fr/˜carbone/data8/

Contact:  alessandra.carbone@lip6.fr

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction Not Only Modifies the Cecocolonic Microbiota in Neonatal Rats But Also Affects Its Activity in Young Adult Rats
Authors: Fança‐Berthon Pascale , Hoebler Christine , Mouzet Elodie , David Agnès , Michel Catherine
Published: July 2010

Objective:

Elucidating why intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) predisposes to some intestinal pathologies would help in their prevention. Intestinal microbiota could be involved in this predisposition; its initial setup is likely to be altered by IUGR because IUGR delays perinatal intestinal development and strongly interacts with intestinal physiology. Furthermore, because initial colonization determines adult intestinal microbiota, an IUGR‐induced defect in initial microbiota would have long‐term consequences. Thus, to characterize the effect of IUGR on intestinal microbiota, we compared the composition and activity of cecocolonic microbiota from birth to adulthood in rats with and without IUGR.

Materials and Methods:

IUGR was induced by gestational isocaloric protein restriction. Pups were fed by unrestricted lactating mothers. At different ages (days 5, 12, 16, 22, 40, and 100), cecocolonic contents from rats with IUGR and controls were analyzed for concentrations of bacterial end products and numbers of main bacterial groups, and submitted to in vitro fermentation tests.

Results:

IUGR affected gut colonization: bacterial density was increased at day 5 and decreased at day 12. In adulthood, rats with IUGR still differed from controls, harboring fewer Bifidobacterium sp at day 40 and more bacteria related to Roseburia intestinalis at day 100. In vivo, propionate concentration was decreased by IUGR before weaning, whereas the concentrations of other short‐chain fatty acids were decreased at day 40, although the in vitro metabolic capability was unaffected overall.

Conclusions:

We showed that IUGR induced, per se, some neonatal and long‐lasting alterations of the intestinal microbiota. The physiological consequences of these changes and their relation to the predisposing effect of IUGR to gut pathologies must now be explored.
Intestinal Anastomoses in Small Children: Is There a Higher Risk?
Authors: Weih Sandra , Jung Ve , Romero Philipp , Chmelnik Martin , Holland‐Cunz Stefan
Published: July 2010

Aim:

The aim of the retrospective study was to evaluate complications and outcome of children in whom an intestinal anastomosis had been performed at age younger than 1 year.

Patients and Methods:

Data were collected both retrospectively and by interviewing the parents. For the retrospective analysis, the underlying disease, biometric data, technical information about the anastomoses, associated illnesses, and complications were evaluated. In the parent interviews, the present quality of life and the state of health of the children were evaluated.

Results:

From 1997 to 2007, intestinal anatomoses had been performed in 131 children for various reasons. There were no complications in 81.7% of the patients; 17 children received reoperation. In only 5 cases were anastomotic complications the reasons for the reoperation. Only 7.3% of the 77 interviewed families believe that their child has severe or relevant restrictions in daily life.

Conclusions:

Among 131 children in whom an intestinal bowel anastomosis procedure was performed at age younger than 1 year, only 5 (3.2%) experienced complications associated with the anastomosis. The children are in good physical condition and have an excellent quality of life.
Effect of Kasai Procedure on Hepatic Outcome in Alagille Syndrome
Authors: Kaye Adam J , Rand Elizabeth B , Munoz Pedro S , Spinner Nancy B , Flake Alan W , Kamath Binita M
Published: July 2010

Objectives:

Alagille syndrome (AGS) frequently presents with neonatal jaundice and can mimic other causes of high γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) cholestasis, most notably biliary atresia. As a result infants with AGS may undergo intraoperative cholangiogram and even Kasai procedure. The aim of the study was to assess the hepatic outcomes of children with AGS who underwent the Kasai procedure.

Patients and Methods:

A retrospective review of the AGS clinical database at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia was performed to identify clinically defined patients with AGS who underwent a Kasai. A cohort of Alagille control subjects was selected with equivalent symptoms of neonatal jaundice and matched for age and presence of cardiac anomaly. JAGGED1‐mutation analysis was performed on available samples. Clinical courses were reviewed. Fisher exact and t tests were used for analysis.

Results:

Of the 430 patients with AGS, 19 underwent a Kasai procedure (K). The control cohort (C) consisted of 36 patients. Total bilirubin measured between 6 and 10 weeks of age in each cohort was equivalent (K: 9.6 mg/dL, C: 8.7 mg/dL); GGT levels were higher in the control group (K:493.4 U/L, C:574.4 U/L). Of note, the Kasai cohort had a significantly larger number of liver transplants (K: 9 [47.3%], C: 5 [13.9%], P = 0.01) and sustained higher mortality (K: 6 [31.6%], C: 1 [2.8%], P = 0.005). There was no genotype‐phenotype correlation between the mutations identified and patients who underwent Kasai.

Conclusions:

These data suggest that the Kasai procedure, although appropriate for children with biliary atresia, does not benefit children with AGS and actually appears to worsen outcome. The current data suggest that the Kasai is not a marker for underlying severe liver disease, but the procedure itself may have a detrimental effect on outcome. An appropriate medical evaluation and particular consideration of AGS is essential before surgical referral in infants with high GGT cholestasis.
MicroRNAs and gene regulatory networks: managing the impact of noise in biological systems
Authors: Herranz Héctor , Cohen Stephen M.
Published: July 2010

Biological systems are continuously challenged by an environment that is variable. Yet, a key feature of developmental and physiological processes is their remarkable stability. This review considers how microRNAs contribute to gene regulatory networks that confer robustness.
Structural and operational complexity of the Geobacter sulfurreducens genome
Authors: Qiu Yu , Cho Byung-Kwan , Park Young Seoub , Lovley Derek , Palsson Bernhard Ø. , Zengler Karsten
Published: July 2010

Prokaryotic genomes can be annotated based on their structural, operational, and functional properties. These annotations provide the pivotal scaffold for understanding cellular functions on a genome-scale, such as metabolism and transcriptional regulation. Here, we describe a systems approach to simultaneously determine the structural and operational annotation of the Geobacter sulfurreducens genome. Integration of proteomics, transcriptomics, RNA polymerase, and sigma factor-binding information with deep-sequencing-based analysis of primary 5′-end transcripts allowed for a most precise annotation. The structural annotation is comprised of numerous previously undetected genes, noncoding RNAs, prevalent leaderless mRNA transcripts, and antisense transcripts. When compared with other prokaryotes, we found that the number of antisense transcripts reversely correlated with genome size. The operational annotation consists of 1453 operons, 22% of which have multiple transcription start sites that use different RNA polymerase holoenzymes. Several operons with multiple transcription start sites encoded genes with essential functions, giving insight into the regulatory complexity of the genome. The experimentally determined structural and operational annotations can be combined with functional annotation, yielding a new three-level annotation that greatly expands our understanding of prokaryotic genomes.
Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) Freeze Substitution of Plant Tissues
Authors: Weigel Detlef , Glazebrook Jane
Published: July 2010

INTRODUCTION

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) requires extensive preparation of plant tissues to achieve optimal results. Samples must be fixed to preserve ultrastructure, dehydrated to withstand the high vacuum of an electron microscope, and embedded in a suitable resin to permit very thin sections to be produced. This protocol describes freeze substitution of plant tissues. It provides better conservation of certain intracellular components, including microtubules and membranes, than do the standard sample preparation procedures for TEM.
Enrichment of Poly(A)+ mRNA Using Immobilized Oligo(dT)
Authors: Rio Donald C. , Ares Manuel , Hannon Gregory J. , Nilsen Timothy W.
Published: July 2010

INTRODUCTION

This protocol describes a method for enrichment of poly(A)+ messenger RNA (mRNA) using immobilized oligo(dT). It takes advantage of the fact that the vast majority of eukaryotic mRNAs contain a 3′ tail of polyadenylic acid added post-transcriptionally. It relies on the ability of these tails to form stable hybrids with oligo(dT) under high-salt conditions. The hybrids are destabilized when salt is absent, allowing mRNAs to be recovered. This protocol is effective in removing the bulk of non-mRNA RNAs. A drawback of the technique is that it does not enrich for mRNAs that lack poly(A) tails (e.g., normal histone mRNAs or deadenylated mRNAs whose poly[A] tails have been removed during mRNA turnover). Several commercially available kits can be used for selection of poly(A)+ RNAs. However, they are expensive and do not perform any better than “homemade” reagents using (dT) cellulose. One obvious advantage of this method is that mRNAs are enriched ~50-fold. Accordingly, detection by Northern blotting or reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) is considerably more sensitive.
Labeling Lipids for Imaging in Live Cells: Figure 1.
Authors: Schultz Carsten , Neef Anne B. , Gadella Theodorus W. , Goedhart Joachim
Published: July 2010

INTRODUCTION

Fluorescently tagged lipid-binding domains have become a popular tool to image lipids that are involved in intracellular signaling processes. The readout usually involves the translocation of the lipid-binding domain from the cytosol or nucleosol to the membrane of interest, or vice versa. Unfortunately, this method seems to work predominantly for lipids in the plasma membrane, whereas lipids such as phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) are not recognized in the membranes of the endoplasmic reticulum or the Golgi. Very recently, we developed an alternative way of localizing a lipid of interest by fluorescent labeling of minimally modified lipid derivatives using a single specific chemical reaction. For lipid location analyses, the method is used in fixed cells. However, for studying lipid dynamics, specific labeling in living cells is also possible. This protocol describes how to directly label lipids for imaging in living cells.
A defucosylated anti‐CD317 antibody exhibited enhanced antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity against primary myeloma cells in the presence of effectors from patients
Authors: Ishiguro Takahiro , Kawai Shigeto , Habu Kiyoshi , Sugimoto Masamichi , Shiraiwa Hirotake , Iijima Shigeyuki , Ozaki Shuji , Matsumoto Toshio , Yamada‐Okabe Hisafumi
Published: July 2010

The humanized monoclonal antibody (mAb) against CD317 antigen (anti‐HM1.24 antibody; AHM), which is highly expressed on multiple myeloma (MM), induces antibody‐dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). However, the antitumor activity of AHM in the clinical setting has not been clearly demonstrated. In this study, we produced defucosylated AHM and evaluated its potency for clinical application by performing autologous ADCC assays against primary MM cells from patients. Defucosylated AHM that was produced in rat myeloma YB2/0 cells expressing a low level of fucosyltransferase (FUT8) showed significant ADCC activity against three out of six primary MM cells in the presence of autologous PBMC, whereas conventional AHM did not. The results indicate that the potency of AHM to induce ADCC against primary MM cells was insufficient, but was significantly augmented by defucosylation. To generate more homogenous defucosylated monoclonal antibodies (mAb) for fermentation, we disrupted the GFT gene that encodes a GDP‐fucose transporter in a CHO/DXB11 cell line by sequential homologous recombination. Analysis of the N‐linked oligosaccharide in the defucosylated AHM produced by the established GFT(−/−)CHO cell line showed that a majority (93.4%) of the oligosaccharide was fucose free. The GFT(−/−) cells stably produced defucosylated mAb over passages. These results demonstrate that GTF(−/−)CHO‐produced defucosylated AHM (GFTKO‐AHM) will be a promising new therapeutic antibody against MM in the clinical setting. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Impaired Glucose Tolerance in the R6/1 Transgenic Mouse Model of Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Josefsen K. , Nielsen M. D. , Jørgensen K. H. , Bock T. , Nørremølle A. , Sørensen S. A. , Naver B. , Hasholt L.
Published: July 2010

Previous reports have highlighted a possible link between Huntington’s disease (HD) and diabetes mellitus (DM), but the association has not been characterised in detail. A transgenic mouse model for HD, the R6/2 mouse, also develops diabetes. In the present study, we examined the R6/1 mouse, which carries a shorter CAG repeat than the R6/2 mouse, and found that, although not diabetic, the mice showed several signs of impaired glucose tolerance. First, following i.p. glucose injection, the blood glucose concentration was approximately 30% higher in young R6/1 mice (10 weeks) compared to wild‐type mice (P = 0.004). In older mice (38 weeks), glucose tolerance was further impaired in both R6/1 and wild‐type animals. Second, during glucose challenge, the R6/1 mice reached higher plasma insulin levels than wild‐type mice, but the peripheral insulin sensitivity was normal as measured by injection of human or mouse insulin or when evaluated by the quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI). Third, the beta cell volume was 17% and 39% smaller at 10 and 38 weeks of age, respectively, compared to age‐matched wild‐type littermates and the reduction was not caused by apoptosis at either age. Finally, we demonstrated the presence of the HD gene product, huntingtin (htt), in both alpha‐ and beta‐cells in R6/1 islets of Langerhans. Since pancreatic beta cells and neurons share several common traits, clarification of the mechanism associating neurodegenerative diseases with diabetes might improve our understanding of the pathogenic events leading to both groups of diseases.
Immunization with newly transformed Schistosoma mansoni schistosomula tegument elicits tegument damage, reduction in egg and parasite burden
Authors: TEIXEIRA de MELO T. , MICHEL de ARAUJO J. , Do VALLE DURÃES F. , CALIARI M. V. , OLIVEIRA S. C. , COELHO P. M. Z. , FONSECA C. T.
Published: July 2010

The surface of the schistosomula is an important target for host immune system attack because the tegument represents the interface between host and parasite and thus is a potential candidate for the development of new intervention strategies. In this study, we evaluated the ability of schistosomula tegument (Smteg) to induce protection in mice. Immunization of mice with Smteg together with Freund adjuvant induced a Th1 type of immune response associated with a significant reduction in worm burden (43–48%), eggs trapped in the liver (65%), eggs eliminated in the faeces (59–60%) and granuloma number (41%). Lastly, during an in vitro study, worms from mice immunized with Smteg showed damage in the adult worm tegument and impaired egg laying.
Evolution of sperm quality but not quantity in the internally fertilized fish Xiphophorus nigrensis
Authors: SMITH C. C. , RYAN M. J.
Published: July 2010

Abstract Species with alternative reproductive strategies are characterized by discrete differences among males in suites of traits related to competition for fertilizations. Models predict sneaker males should allocate more resources to their ejaculates because they experience sperm competition more frequently and often occupy a disfavoured ‘role’ owing to subordinance in intramale competition and female preferences for larger males. We examined whether sperm number and quality differed between male strategies in the internally fertilized fish Xiphophorus nigrensis and explored the relationship between sperm morphology and performance. We found sneaker males had similar testes sizes compared to courting males but ejaculates with both more viable and longer lived sperm. Sneaker sperm also had longer midpieces, which was positively correlated with both velocity and longevity. Our study suggests that the evolution of sperm quantity and quality can be decoupled and that the sperm morphology is likely to play an important role in mediating sperm competition through its effects on sperm performance.
Comparison of low‐dose and high‐dose cosyntropin stimulation testing in children
Authors: Cemeroglu Ayse Pinar , Kleis Lora , Postellon Daniel C. , Wood Michael A.
Published: July 2010

Background:  There is no consensus among pediatric endocrinologists in using low‐dose (LD) versus high‐dose (HD) cosyntropin to test for secondary/tertiary adrenal insufficiency. This paper compares LD and HD cosyntropin stimulation testing in children for evaluation of hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis (HPAA) and suggests a new peak cortisol cut‐off value for LD stimulation testing to avoid false positivity.

Methods:  Data of 36 children receiving LD (1 µg) and HD (249 µg) cosyntropin consecutively during growth hormone (GH) stimulation testing were analyzed in two groups. Group A were patients who passed GH stimulation testing and were not on oral, inhaled or intranasal steroids (intact hypothalamic‐pituitary axis, n= 19). Group B were patients who failed GH stimulation testing and/or were on oral, inhaled or intranasal steroids (impaired hypothalamic‐pituitary axis, n= 17).

Results:  In group A, the mean peak cortisol response in LD cosyntropin was 18.5 ± 2.4 µg/dL and that for the HD cosyntropin was 24.8 ± 3.1 µg/dL (r: 0.76, P≤ 0.05). In group B, the mean peak cortisol response in LD cosyntropin was 15.7 ± 6.1 µg/dL and that for HD cosyntropin was 21.7 ± 7.9 µg/dL (r: 0.98, P≤ 0.05). When a standard cut‐off of 18 µg/dL was used, 37% of the patients with intact HPAA failed LD cosyntropin testing, but a cut‐off of 14 µg/dL eliminated false positive results.

Conclusions:  LD cosyntropin stimulation testing results should be interpreted cautiously when used alone to prevent unnecessary long‐term treatment. Using a lower cut‐off for LD (≥14 µg/dL) seems to avoid false positive results and still detects most cases of impaired HPAA.
Endoscopic ultrasound of pancreatic cystic lesions
Authors: Prasad Shyam , Wilson Jarrad , Kalade Andrius , Desmond Paul , Chen Robert
Published: July 2010

Background:  The impact of endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) on the management of pancreatic cystic lesions remains unclear, and there are no published studies of the Australian experience in this area. The aim of this study was to review the experience of EUS for such lesions within our institution.

Methods:  A retrospective review was undertaken of data collected prospectively over a two‐year period within the EUS database of St. Vincent's Hospital. Patients who underwent EUS for suspected pancreatic cystic lesions were identified. Data were collected on demographic variables, EUS findings, the results of EUS‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) and the findings on clinical and radiological follow‐up.

Results:  Fifty‐nine patients were identified. Two thirds were female. Most lesions were located at the pancreatic head. Median diameter was 25 mm. FNA was performed in 36 cases (61%). On cytology, six (17%) showed features of mucinous tumours and five (14%) showed adenocarcinoma. The remainder contained either non‐specific benign cells or insufficient epithelial tissue. Follow‐up data on 48 cases (83%), after a median duration of 15 months, revealed that 15 lesions (31%) had been resected, including six serous and six mucinous tumours. The level of carcinoembryonic antigen in FNA specimens appeared to be higher in mucinous than in serous neoplasms. Twenty‐four lesions had undergone repeat radiological imaging: only three had grown in size.

Conclusions:  EUS and FNA are useful procedures for assessing pancreatic cystic lesions. Malignant features are demonstrated in only a small minority. The majority of the remainder show no signs of progression during follow‐up.
Bayesian Scheme for Interactive Colourization, Recolourization and Image/Video Editing
Authors: Dalmau Oscar , Rivera Mariano , Alarcón Teresa
Published: July 2010

We propose a general image and video editing method based on a Bayesian segmentation framework. In the first stage, classes are established from scribbles made by a user on the image. These scribbles can be considered as a multi‐map (multi‐label map) that defines the boundary conditions of a probability measure field to be computed for each pixel. In the second stage, the global minima of a positive definite quadratic cost function with linear constraints, is calculated to find the probability measure field. The components of such a probability measure field express the degree of each pixel belonging to spatially smooth classes. Finally, the computed probabilities (memberships) are used for defining the weights of a linear combination of user provided colours or effects associated to each class. The proposed method allows the application of different operators, selected interactively by the user, over part or the whole image without needing to recompute the memberships. We present applications to colourization, recolourization, editing and photomontage tasks.
Effects of deoxyribonucleoside 5′‐monophosphates on human skin conditions
Authors: Hsu T.‐F. , Wang M.‐F. , Yamamoto S. , Sekido H. , Hoshino Y. , Honmura A. , Akita R. , Enari H.
Published: July 2010

Vol. 43, No.3 (2009) pp.209–216

We investigated the effects of deoxyribonucleoside 5′‐monophosphates (dNMP) on human skin conditions. dNMPs (dAMP, dGMP, dCMP, dTMP) were prepared from salmon milt DNA using enzymatic and chromatographic techniques. First, we investigated the rubbing test of dNMP mixture on skin. 1% of dNMP mixture‐containing cream (1%‐dNMP group), 3% of dNMP mixture‐containing cream (3%‐dNMP group), or no dNMP‐containing cream (control group) was rubbed on the skin of the face and hand of the male subjects (ten / each group) for 12 weeks. The 1%‐dNMP group had significantly improved skin‐elasticity compared to that of the control group at 8 weeks, and the tendency of improvement of skin‐elasticity was also recognized at 4 and 12 weeks. The 3%‐dNMP group tended to have improved skin‐elasticity at every period. The water content of face skin was significantly increased in the 3%‐dNMP group at 12 weeks. In addition, in the questionnaire, more than 80% of the 3%‐dNMP group answered that they felt the improvement of skin roughness after 4 weeks. These results indicated that the dNMP mixture has the effect of improving skin conditions by rubbing. Next, we evaluated the effect of the enzymatic digested DNA‐Na which contained dNMPs using normal dermal fibroblast from human skin (SF‐TY cell). Enzymatic digested DNA‐Na showed the activation effect of cell proliferation and the promoting effect of collagen production on SF‐TY cell. In a comparison of dNMPs, dAMP showed the highest activity of collagen production.
Addressing technical challenges associated with the FDA's proposed rules for the UVA in vitro testing procedure
Authors: Dueva‐Koganov O. V. , Rocafort C. , Orofino S. , Osterwalder U. , Brito J.
Published: July 2010

J. Cosmet. Sci.,
60, 587–598 (November/December 2009)

Synopsis

The proposed rules of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the UVA in vitro testing procedure were applied to the evaluation of various sunscreen formulations and the following technical challenges were observed: when proposed roughened quartz substrates were used, the required coefficient‐of‐variation criteria were not met, and the dynamic ranges of the available transmittance analyzers were exceeded for sunscreens with high SPF values. In the proposed rules, the FDA requested comment regarding the suitability of other possible substrates. In this research, two modifications to the FDA's proposed rules were evaluated: (i) the use of an alternative substrate, Vitro Skin® N‐19 (IMS, Inc.) instead of roughened quartz substrate and (ii) an increase in application time from 10 s to 30 s to ensure a uniform distribution of sunscreen product over the application area of the substrate. These two modifications allowed meeting the required coefficient‐of‐variation criteria without exceeding the dynamic ranges of the available transmittance analyzers. The modified test conditions were utilized for the evaluation of six commercial sunscreens, which fulfilled criteria of ‘medium’ or ‘high’ categories—based on their UVAI/UV ratios. These findings were in agreement with the statement in the proposed rules that the FDA is aware of the difficulty for current sunscreen formulations to meet the ‘highest’ category and believes that allowing such a category will foster additional research and development in this area. To determine if it was possible to achieve a UVA rating greater than 0.95, two experimental sunscreen prototypes with bisoctrizole (USAN), bemotrizinol (USAN), avobenzone, and octocrylene were tested under the modified test conditions and attained the ‘highest’ category. It should be noted that bisoctrizole and bemotrizinol are being evaluated by the FDA under TEA and are not permitted in the USA at this time, but they are approved for use in the rest of the world.
Caffeine microspheres – an attractive carrier for optimum skin penetration
Authors: Bourgeois S. , Bolzinger M.A. , Pelletier J. , Valour J.P. , Briançon St.
Published: July 2010

IFSCC Magazine, 12 (4) 359–363 (2009)

Synopsis

Caffeine is an effective slimming agent used for topical administration or in cosmetic products. The formulation must be such that caffeine reaches the adipocytes in the hypodermis. Biodegradable caffeine‐loaded microspheres were evaluated for the transport of caffeine to its site of action for 24 h and upto 72 h. The mean diameter of the microspheres was 2.8 μm and their caffeine loading was 2.3 mg g‐1 of particles. The permeation of caffeine from microspheres applied in aqueous suspension or from solution was evaluated through in vitro diffusion measurements with static Franz cells (n = 6) over 24 h or 72 h. The first experiments carried out on full‐thickness skin without hypodermis showed that after 24 h the total amount of caffeine was twice as high from microspheres as from aqueous solution (22.6% vs. 9.99%). The results suggested that microspheres could easily penetrate through the skin and accumulate in the receptor compartment, ensuring continuous caffeine release. When the hypodermis was retained, microsphere penetration was only slightly decreased. After 72 hours of exposure the receptor fluid contained 15.3% free caffeine and 27.8% encapsulated fraction. The hypodermis hindered solution permeation, and therefore the free caffeine content was lower. Permeation of microspheres was not stopped by the presence of hypodermis.
Evaluation of an assertive outreach intervention for problem families: intervention methods and early outcomes
Authors: Rots‐de Vries Carin , van de Goor Ien , Stronks Karien , Garretsen Henk
Published: July 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 211–219
 
Evaluation of an assertive outreach intervention for problem families: intervention methods and early outcomes

Families who experience a chronic complex of socio‐economic and psycho‐social problems are hard to reach with mainstream care. Evidence exists that the core of this problem lies in a problematic interaction between this type of family and current systems of care. The adults and children involved have needs in multiple domains, while the care system is fragmented and highlights well‐defined requests for help. To improve access to this target group, an assertive outreach intervention was implemented into the preventive child healthcare system in the Netherlands. Evaluation research was carried out to get a detailed insight into the content of this intervention. Also, early outcomes were examined. Information was gathered by interviews, attending meetings on method development, analysing registration forms and a survey on client satisfaction. Five intervention stages were identified: case finding, making contact, sustaining contact, developing a family plan and linking (arranging for services to be delivered). Practical support was used to build rapport and clear the way to the uptake of follow‐up help. The professionals delivering the intervention need a broad range of competencies to establish a working relation with the families and to link them to care and services. A good care network across professionals from various organisations must exist to provide a variety of linking options. Early outcomes indicate that professionals were able to get in touch with the families within a mean of 13.2 days. Goals of the intervention were mainly practical support (73%), starting new assistance for a child (63%) and starting new assistance for a parent (43%). Linking to care and services was attained in the majority of the cases and parents expressed satisfaction. The findings indicate that the studied intervention is a promising one. Some potent components can be indicated: the outreach approach, practical support, maximising participation of the family and building bridges between the family and (in)formal support and assistance.
Celebrity Politics: The Politics of the Late Modernity?
Authors: Marsh David , Hart Paul ‘t , Tindall Karen
Published: July 2010

The academic literature on celebrity politics is rarely systematic; more often it is superficial and anecdotal. In addition, most of the literature focuses either upon classifying different types/categories of celebrity politicians and their roles in politics, or upon the question of whether the growth of celebrity politics undermines or enhances democracy. In this article we consider both of these issues more systematically and, in doing so, work towards a more coherent understanding of the mechanisms that influence modern governance and the operation of contemporary democracy.
Using an integrated automated system to optimize retention and increase frequency of blood donations
Authors: Whitney J. Garrett , Hall Robert F.
Published: July 2010

BACKGROUND: This study examines the impact of an integrated, automated phone system to reinforce retention and increase frequency of donations among blood donors.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Cultivated by incorporating data results over the past 7 years, the system uses computerized phone messaging to contact blood donors with individualized, multilevel notifications. Donors are contacted at planned intervals to acknowledge and recognize their donations, informed where their blood was sent, asked to participate in a survey, and reminded when they are eligible to donate again.

RESULTS: The report statistically evaluates the impact of the various components of the system on donor retention and blood donations and quantifies the fiscal advantages to blood centers.

CONCLUSIONS: By using information and support systems provided by the automated services and then incorporating the phlebotomists and recruiters to reinforce donor retention, both retention and donations will increase.
Morphology, Optical, and Magnetic Properties of Zn1−xCoxO Nanorods Grown via a Wet Chemical Route
Authors: Kartawidjaja Fransiska Cecilia , Lim Zi Yi , Ng Serene Lay Geok , Zhang Yu , Wang John
Published: July 2010

Co‐doped ZnO nanorods (Zn1−xCoxO) with x=0.05, 0.1, and 0.2 were successfully grown on indium‐doped tin oxide glass substrates via a wet chemical route at 70°C for 10 h. The effect of Co‐doping level on the morphology, crystalline phases, optical, and magnetic properties of the ZnO nanorods was studied. Based on scanning electron microscopy, TEM, and XRD studies, it is confirmed that Co‐doped ZnO nanorods were grown along the [0001] direction. Co doping affects the d‐spacing and with an increasing Co concentration, the lattice parameter c is increased slightly. The incorporation of Co in ZnO is confirmed with XPS, whereby it is shown that the excitation state of Co is (+2), which rules out the formation of a secondary phase such as Co2O3 or Co3O4, which is consistent with XRD phase analysis results. The near‐band edge emission peak of ZnO nanorods is red shifted in response to Co doping, and the band gap energy of (Zn1−xCoxO) nanorods decreases with the increasing Co doping. Zn0.95Co0.05O and Zn0.9Co0.1O nanorods exhibit a degree of paragmagnetism, while the nanorods with higher Co concentration (Zn0.8Co0.2O) exhibit ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature.
Community structure of insect herbivores on introduced and native Solidago plants in Japan
Authors: Ando Yoshino , Utsumi Shunsuke , Ohgushi Takayuki
Published: July 2010

We compared community composition, density, and species richness of herbivorous insects on the introduced plant Solidago altissima L. (Asteraceae) and the related native species Solidago virgaurea L. in Japan. We found large differences in community composition on the two Solidago species. Five hemipteran sap feeders were found only on S. altissima. Two of them, the aphid Uroleucon nigrotuberculatum Olive (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and the scale insect Parasaissetia nigra Nietner (Hemiptera: Coccidae), were exotic species, accounting for 62% of the total individuals on S. altissima. These exotic sap feeders mostly determined the difference of community composition on the two plant species. In contrast, the herbivore community on S. virgaurea consisted predominately of five native insects: two lepidopteran leaf chewers and three dipteran leaf miners. Overall species richness did not differ between the plants because the increased species richness of sap feeders was offset by the decreased richness of leaf chewers and leaf miners on S. altissima. The overall density of herbivorous insects was higher on S. altissima than on S. virgaurea, because of the high density of the two exotic sap feeding species on S. altissima. We discuss the importance of analyzing community composition in terms of feeding guilds of insect herbivores for understanding how communities of insect herbivores are organized on introduced plants in novel habitats.
Energy intake and expenditure during a 6‐day cycling stage race
Authors: Rehrer N. J. , Hellemans I. J. , Rolleston A. K. , Rush E. , Miller B. F.
Published: July 2010

Energy intake (EI) and energy expenditure (EE) are relatively easy to measure accurately over short periods in a laboratory setting, but less so during a multi‐day competition. Our goal was to measure EI and EE as accurately as possible during a 6‐day, 10‐stage cycling race. We prepared all meals and supplements, assessed EI (weighed diet‐records) and macrontrient intake, total EE (doubly labelled water), resting metabolic rate (respiratory gas exchange), exercise EE (power meters), and body mass. Body composition was measured several days before and after racing (dual x‐ray absorptiometry). Body mass remained stable over the course of the race. The mean EI (27.3±3.8 MJ/day) nearly matched EE (27.4±2.0 MJ/day). The majority (62%) of EE was exercise EE. Macronutrient intake was within or exceeded the recommendations. Lean body mass increased and fat mass decreased in most of our participants. Our study indicates that EI can match high EE with adequate macronutrient intake during multi‐day cycle racing and may be facilitated by appropriate foods being available at appropriate times. This optimization of nutritional provision supports positive changes in body composition.
Slow versus rapid enteral feeding advancement in preterm newborn infants 1000–1499 g: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Krishnamurthy Sriram , Gupta Piyush , Debnath Sanjib , Gomber Sunil
Published: July 2010

Aim:  To evaluate whether preterm neonates weighing 1000–1499 g at birth receiving rapid enteral feeding advancement at 30 mL/kg/day attain full feedings (180 mL/kg/day) earlier than those receiving slow enteral feeding advancement at 20 mL/kg/day without increase in the incidence of feeding intolerance or necrotizing enterocolitis.

Methods:  A total of 100 stable intramural neonates weighing between 1000 and 1499 g and gestational age less than 34 weeks were randomly allocated to enteral feeding (expressed human milk or formula) advancement of 20 mL/kg/day (n = 50) or 30 mL/kg/day (n = 50).

Results:  Neonates in the rapid feeding advancement group achieved full volume feedings before the slow advancement group (median 7 days vs. 9 days) (p < 0.001), had significantly fewer days of intravenous fluids (median 2 days vs. 3.4 days) (p < 0.001), shorter length of stay in hospital (median 9.5 days vs. 11 days) (p = 0.003) and regained birth weight earlier (median 16 days vs. 22 days) (p < 0.001). There were no statistical differences in the proportion of infants with apnea, feed interruption or feed intolerance.

Conclusion:  Rapid enteral feeding advancements of 30 mL/kg/day are well tolerated by stable preterm neonates weighing 1000–1499 g.
Continuing Medical Education: Vulvodynia (CME)
Authors: Goldstein Andrew T. , Burrows Lara
Published: July 2010

Introduction

Vulvodynia is increasingly recognized as a cause of sexual pain.

Aim

The goal of this Continuing Medical Education article was to provide a comprehensive review of vulvodynia including terminology, possible etiologies, and offer treatment options.

Methods

A Medline search was conducted using several terms related to and including the terms vulvodynia, vulvar vestibulitis, vestibulodynia, and pudendal neuralgia.

Results

A thorough review of vulvodynia.

Conclusion

Vulvodynia most likely represents several disorders without an identifiable cause in many cases. The management of these patients requires a sensitive provider who can coordinate a multidisciplinary approach to their care. Despite the lack of large-scale, placebo-controlled trials, several new treatment options exist.
Identification of a novel HLA‐DQB1 allele, DQB1*0326, in a College of American Pathologists 2009 survey specimen
Authors: Chen M. J. , Chu C. C. , Shyr M. H. , Lin C. L. , Lin P. Y. , Yang K. L.
Published: July 2010

We identified a novel DQB1*0326 allele from a proficiency test sample provided by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) medical society. This novel DQB1 allele was unexpectedly discovered by sequence‐based typing method in an attempt to resolve a discrepant typing result between the CAP survey report and our laboratory report. This novel DQB1 allele is most similar to DQB1*030302 and DQB1*0311. DQB1*0326 has a nucleotide substitution resulting an amino acid change when compared with DQB1*030302 (M to L) and it differs from DQB1*0311 by one nucleotide variation causing an amino acid replacement (A to D).
Where are all the victims?
Authors: Farrell Amy , McDevitt Jack , Fahy Stephanie
Published: July 2010

Research Summary

The passage of new laws that criminalize the trafficking of persons for labor and sexual services has raised public awareness about the problem of human trafficking. In response, police must understand the problem, identify human trafficking victims, and make arrests. The numbers of victims identified to date, however, has paled in comparison with official estimates, which leads some to question the existence of a human trafficking problem. Missing from this debate is information about how frequently police encounter human trafficking and how well prepared officers are to handle these cases. Analyzing survey responses from a national sample of police agencies in the United States, we found that less than 10% of police agencies identified human trafficking cases from 2000 to 2006. Larger agencies were more likely to identify cases of human trafficking but the agency leader perception about the problem in their local communities as well as taking steps to prepare officers to identify and respond were the most important factors to increasing human trafficking identification by police.

Policy Implications

This study provides much needed information about why U.S. officials have identified so few human trafficking victims. By understanding how often and under what conditions police find, investigate, and prosecute cases of human trafficking we will be in a better position to identify and overcome barriers to police responses to trafficking and understand the limitations of official statistics about human trafficking. Data from a national survey also provide a baseline measure of police identification of human trafficking against which we can gauge the progress of future anti‐trafficking efforts.
Single layer centrifugation of stallion spermatozoa consistently selects the most robust spermatozoa from the rest of the ejaculate in a large sample size
Authors: MORRELL J. M. , RODRIGUEZ‐MARTINEZ H. , JOHANNISSON A.
Published: July 2010

Reasons for performing study: An improvement in sperm quality after single layer centrifugation (SLC) has been seen in previous studies using small sample sizes (for example, n = 10 stallions). There is a need to investigate whether this improvement is repeatable over several breeding seasons with a larger number of stallions (n ≥ 30 stallions).

Objective: To make a retrospective analysis of the results of SLC performed on more than 250 sperm samples (176 ejaculates) from 31 stallions in 3 consecutive breeding seasons.

Methods: Sperm quality (motility, proportion of morphologically normal spermatozoa and the proportion of spermatozoa with undamaged chromatin) was assessed before and after SLC.

Results: All parameters of sperm quality examined were significantly better in sperm samples after SLC than in their unselected counterparts (P<0.001 for each parameter). The yield of spermatozoa obtained after SLC was influenced by the type of extender used and also by the concentration of spermatozoa in the original ejaculate, with fewer spermatozoa being recovered when the loading dose contained a high concentration of spermatozoa. The optimal concentration was approximately 100 × 106/ml. Sperm concentration in the samples loaded on to the colloid influenced the sperm yield while the type of semen extender affected sperm quality and survival. Furthermore, the scaled‐up SLC method was found to be suitable for use with a range of ejaculates, with similar sperm kinematics being observed for standard and scaled‐up preparations.

Conclusions: SLC consistently improved the quality of stallion sperm samples from a large number of ejaculates. The method could be scaled‐up, allowing larger volumes of ejaculate to be processed easily from a wide range of stallions.
Effect of rapid thermal annealing on MgxZn1−xO films prepared by radio-frequency magnetron sputtering
Authors: Hsueh Kuang-Po , Tun Chun-Ju , Chiu Hsien-Chin , Huang Yu-Ping , Chi Gou-Chung
Published: July 2010

This study investigates the effects of thermal annealing on the MgxZn1−xO films. MgxZn1−xO films were deposited by a radio-frequency magnetron sputtering system using a 6 in. ZnO/MgO (80/20 wt %) target. The Hall results, x-ray diffraction (XRD), transmittance, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were measured. The XRD results indicate that the appearance of only (111) peaks in the as-grown MgxZn1−xO film is a sign of the cubic single phase, whereas the appearance of ZnO (002) peaks in MgxZn1−xO films annealed at 700 and 800 °C confirms the formation of a wurtzite single-phase crystal. The existence of a weak (002)-wurtzite peak besides the (111)-cubic peak indicates the coexistence of two phases. The absorption spectra of MgxZn1−xO annealed at 700 and 800 °C show two stages at wavelengths of 357 and 261 nm. The XPS spectra of MgxZn1−xO films were also demonstrated. The results of this study show that the ZnO films were separated from MgxZn1−xO films after higher thermal annealing.
Downsizing the Hydrated Electron's Lair
Authors: Jordan Kenneth D. , Johnson Mark A.
Published: July 2010

A new model for free electrons in water suggests that they are localized in regions of enhanced rather than depleted water density.
India Launches New Probe of Cyanide Disaster
Authors: Bagla Pallava
Published: July 2010

More than a quarter-century after the world's worst chemical disaster, the Indian government last week ordered remediation of the contaminated site in Bhopal and the creation of a research institute to study the toxic legacy.
"Dangerous" Hair
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: July 2010

A genome-wide association study reveals that ligands that serve as danger signals are overproduced in hair follicles of patients with a disfiguring form of hair loss.
Zinc Bells Rang in Jerusalem!A report on the Meeting of the International Society for Zinc Biology, Jerusalem, Israel, 1 to 5 December 2009.
Authors: Hershfinkel Michal , Aizenman Elias , Andrews Glen , Sekler Israel
Published: July 2010

Researchers met to discuss zinc signaling in health and disease.
Science Signaling
Podcast: 6 July 2010
Authors: Barkai Naama , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: July 2010

Lateral inhibition in proneuronal clusters in the fruit fly relies on competition between cis and trans Notch signaling.