bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photoionization of Li and radiative recombination of Li+ in Debye plasmas
Authors: Qi Y. Y. , Wu Y. , Wang J. G.
Published: March 2009

The photoionization cross sections in the photoelectron energy below 2 Ry are calculated for the ground and n≤4 excited states of Li embedded in plasma environments and the radiative-recombination (RR) rate coefficients for Li+ were presented for temperature T=100–32 000 K in a wide range of plasma parameters. The plasma screening interaction is described by the Debye–Hückel model and the energy levels and wave functions including both the bound and continuum states are calculated by solving the Schrödinger equation numerically in a symplectic integration scheme. The screening of Coulomb interactions remarkably changes the photoionization cross sections near the ionization threshold, and especially for the ns states, the Cooper minimum is uncovered and shifted to the higher energy as the screening interaction increases. The RR rate coefficients at low temperature have a complex variation on the Debye lengths; whereas at higher temperature the RR rate coefficients decrease with the increasing of screening effects. Comparison of present results with those of other authors when available is made.
On vortex shedding from bluff bodies with base cavities
Authors: Cai Jinsheng , Chng Tat Loon
Published: March 2009

In an extension of a previous drag reduction study via geometric shaping, this paper describes a numerical study of a quasistreamlined body in which the trailing edge is modified to form a base cavity. Here, we seek to establish if any synergistic merits exist through a combination of a spanwise wavy trailing edge with a straight-edged base cavity. Both two-dimensional and three-dimensional (3D) simulations are conducted to assess the effect of Reynolds number, streamwise cavity length and spanwise waviness on the flow. Two dimensional simulations examining a variation in Reynolds number for a cavity of constant length reveal the presence of three different general wake patterns: the steady wake, the Karman wake, and an asymmetric, deflected wake. Most critically, the origins of the deflected wake pattern are traced to the presence of a vortex which resides within the base cavity. Similarly, for a constant Reynolds number the influence of the cavity length on the flow is also intricately related to this cavity vortex, giving rise to wake topologies which bear a strong resemblance to the above three shedding processes. Reductions in drag are observed for all the investigated cavity configurations and additionally it is found that the magnitude of the reduction obeys a direct relationship with the length of the cavity up to a certain asymptotic value. The results of the 3D simulations reveal that the current base-cavity arrangement appears to yield a potential for further reduction in form drag as compared to earlier studies where the entire base region is modified in the shape of a wave. However, for a fixed cavity length, introducing spanwise waviness reduces the fluctuation intensity of the form drag but offers no obvious added benefit in terms of the time-averaged values. We anticipate that the presence of the straight-edged cavity causes a loss of spanwise coherence of these structures such that further enhancements due to the introduction of waviness are of less consequence.
Seebeck coefficient and thermal conductivity in doped C60
Authors: Wang Wendong , Wang Zhenjun , Tang Jinke , Yang Shizhong , Jin Hua , Zhao Guang-Lin , Li Qiang
Published: March 2009

Pressed bulk samples of C60 doped with P, Co, Al, and Bi have been investigated for their thermoelectric properties. These samples show extremely low thermal conductivity, typically in the range of 0.1–0.3W∕Km at room temperature. The Seebeck coefficients of Co, Al, and Bi doped C60 solids are in the tens of μV∕K; however, for P doped C60 samples, a very large Seebeck coefficient in the order of 103μV∕K was observed. The value of the Seebeck coefficient seems to depend sensitively on the P concentration and changes sign upon annealing at 100°C. Ab initio density functional theory calculations show that the calculated electronic structures and the activation energies strongly depend on the dopants in C60 solids. The high Seebeck coefficient in studied P doped C60 is due to the system’s unique dopant and concentration.
Hydrogen-bond mediated transitional adlayer of glycine on Si(111)7×7 at room temperature
Authors: Zhang L. , Chatterjee A. , Ebrahimi M. , Leung K. T.
Published: March 2009

The growth of glycine film by thermal evaporation on Si(111)7×7 at room temperature has been studied by X-ray photoemission. In contrast to common carboxylic acids, glycine is found to adsorb on Si(111)7×7 dissociatively through cleavage of a N–H bond instead of O–H bond. The intricate evolution of the observed N 1s features at 399.1, 401.4, and 402.2 eV with increasing film thickness demonstrates the existence of a transitional adlayer between the first adlayer and the zwitterionic multilayer. This transitional adlayer is estimated to be 1–2 adlayer thick and is characterized by the presence of intermolecular N⋯HO hydrogen bond. An intramolecular proton transfer mechanism is proposed to account for the adsorption process through the amino group.
Preface to Special Topic: Papers from the 82nd American Chemical Society Colloid and Surface Science Symposium, Raleigh, North Carolina, 2008
Authors: Petsev Dimiter N. , Doyle Patrick S.
Published: March 2009

This Special Topic section of Biomicrofluidics contains original contributions that were presented at the 82nd Colloid and Surface Science Symposium, which took place on 15–18 June 2008 at North Carolina State University. The Symposium covered a wide range of topics that are relevant to the fundamentals of fluidics and their application to biological systems.
Magnetic properties of some metastable Co–Ru alloys studied by ion beam mixing and ab initio calculation
Authors: Wang W. C. , Dai Y. , Wang T. L. , Li J. H. , He X. , Liu B. X.
Published: March 2009

Magnetic fcc-Co75Ru25 (L12) phase and nonmagnetic fcc-Co25Ru75 (L12) phase are obtained by ion beam mixing in the respective Co–Ru multilayered films. Interestingly, in the Co50Ru50 multilayered films, a magnetic dual-fcc phase, identified to be a mixture consisting of a magnetic fcc-Co75Ru25 and a nonmagnetic fcc-Co25Ru75 phases, is observed at an irradiation dose of 3×1015 Xe+/cm2 and, upon further irradiation to a dose of 7×1015 Xe+/cm2, transformed into a nonmagnetic single-fcc phase with an alloy composition back to be Co50Ru50.
‘Smart grid’ gets big stimulus from US recovery plan
Authors: Kramer David
Published: March 2009

An updated electric grid will be more reliable and secure, but some warn that investments should await industry standards.
Superconductors to boost wind power
Authors: Matthews Jermey N. A.
Published: March 2009

More powerful generators are key to growing offshore wind farms.
Phylogenetic systematics and biogeography of the sand crab families Albuneidae and Blepharipodidae (Crustacea : Anomura : Hippoidea)
Authors: Boyko Christopher B. , Harvey Alan W.
Published: March 2009

Many unrelated crustaceans sharing a suite of convergent specialisations for a sand-burrowing existence have been placed in the anomuran family Albuneidae at one time or another. Although most of these non-albuneids have long since been reassigned to other families, recent molecular and morphological evidence has suggested a further split within the family between the Albuneidae (sensu stricto) and the Blepharipodidae. We used 173 morphological characters to test phylogenetic hypotheses about the monophyly of the Albuneidae and Blepharipodidae, as well as their constituent genera. We included 61 known species of albuneids and blepharipodids (including eight fossil species) and six outgroup species in five anomuran families. Analyses confirm that the Albuneidae and the Blepharipodidae are separate and monophyletic taxa that have convergently evolved similar adaptations to sand burrowing. Zygopa Holthuis, 1961 and Squillalbunea Boyko, 2002 are sister-taxa to the rest of the Albuneidae; all other Recent genera of albuneids are well supported and form two clades at the subfamily level. An Indo-Pacific origin for the Albuneidae is proposed and various scenarios regarding possible routes of dispersal are discussed.
Effect of cotton - cowpea intercropping on C and N mineralisation patterns of residue mixtures and soil
Authors: Rusinamhodzi L. , Murwira H. K. , Nyamangara J.
Published: March 2009

Carbon and nitrogen mineralisation potential of mixed cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) crop residues produced under intercropping, as well as a reddish-brown soil classified by FAO as Ferralic Cambisol previously under intercrops, were studied over a 10-week incubation period under controlled conditions (25°C and moisture content of 70% field capacity, 125 mm) in the laboratory. Treatments consisted of cotton residues (100 : 0), cowpea residues (0 : 100), and cotton–cowpea residues (50 : 50, 70 : 30, and 30 : 70). These ratios were based on yields obtained in different cotton–cowpea intercrop treatments from a field study. Cowpea residues (0 : 100) released the highest amount of mineral N of 36.4 mg/kg soil, and cotton residues (100 : 0) least, 19.2 mg/kg soil, while the other mixtures were in between. All treatments except for cowpea residues (0 : 100) and the 30 : 70 mixture showed immobilisation of soil N during the first 2 weeks of incubation. The trend for C mineralisation was similar to that of N, and cowpea residues (0 : 100) released the highest amount, 492 mg C/kg soil, while cotton residues (100 : 0) recorded the least, 315 mg C/kg soil. The C mineralisation patterns of cowpea residues (0 : 100) and 30 : 70 treatments were exponential and were well described by the equation: where CE is exponentially mineralisable C fraction, k is the rate constant, and t is time in days. The mineralisation patterns for other treatments were sigmoidal and were well described by the equation: where CS is sigmoidally mineralisable C fraction; t 0 is time in days required for complete mineralisation of CS , while k is rate constant. The amount of N released from soil previously under cotton–cowpea intercrops and sole crops was approximately one-third of the amount released when the residues were incorporated. The highest amount of N released (12.2 mg/kg soil) was from soil previously under sole cowpea, while soil from the 1 : 1 cotton–cowpea intercrop released 9.9 mg/kg soil and soil from sole cotton released 5.9 mg/kg soil. There was no significant effect (P > 0.05) of previous crop on C mineralisation patterns of the soil. Mixtures slow down N losses and increase nutrient use efficiency of legume residues, especially in the short-term. When cotton is grown as a sole crop, starter N to offset negative effects of initial N-immobilisation at the start of season is required. A better understanding of controlling parameters of decomposition can make it possible to predict C and N mineralisation patterns in mixtures. Reduced C mineralisation in cotton–cowpea mixtures may result in more C sequestration and, hence, SOM build-up and improved sustainability in the long term in intercropping systems.
Soil respiration and N2O emission in croplands under different ploughing practices: a case study in south-east China
Authors: Chen Shutao , Huang Yao
Published: March 2009

Studies on the CO2 and N2O emission patterns of agricultural soils under different ploughing practices may provide an insight into the potential and magnitude of CO2 and N2O mitigation in highly managed farmland soils. In this study, field measurements of soil respiration and N2O flux with different ploughing depths were performed in the 2003–04 wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), 2004 maize (Zea mays L.), and 2004–05 wheat seasons. Soil temperature and moisture were simultaneously measured. Results showed that, in each cropping season, the seasonal variation in soil respiration developed with a similar pattern for different treatments, which was primarily regulated by soil temperature. This work demonstrates that ploughing depth can influence long-term loss of carbon from soil, but this was contingent on preceding cropping types. Given the same preceding cropping practice, no significant difference in N2O emission was found among different ploughing depths in each cropping season.
The grinding tip of the sea urchin tooth exhibits exquisite control over calcite crystal orientation and Mg distribution
Authors: Ma Yurong , Aichmayer Barbara , Paris Oskar , Fratzl Peter , Meibom Anders , Metzler Rebecca A. , Politi Yael , Addadi Lia , Gilbert P. U. P. A. , Weiner Steve
Published: March 2009

The sea urchin tooth is a remarkable grinding tool. Even though the tooth is composed almost entirely of calcite, it is used to grind holes into a rocky substrate itself often composed of calcite. Here, we use 3 complementary high-resolution tools to probe aspects of the structure of the grinding tip: X-ray photoelectron emission spectromicroscopy (X-PEEM), X-ray microdiffraction, and NanoSIMS. We confirm that the needles and plates are aligned and show here that even the high Mg polycrystalline matrix constituents are aligned with the other 2 structural elements when imaged at 20-nm resolution. Furthermore, we show that the entire tooth is composed of 2 cooriented polycrystalline blocks that differ in their orientations by only a few degrees. A unique feature of the grinding tip is that the structural elements from each coaligned block interdigitate. This interdigitation may influence the fracture process by creating a corrugated grinding surface. We also show that the overall Mg content of the tooth structural elements increases toward the grinding tip. This probably contributes to the increasing hardness of the tooth from the periphery to the tip. Clearly the formation of the tooth, and the tooth tip in particular, is amazingly well controlled. The improved understanding of these structural features could lead to the design of better mechanical grinding and cutting tools.
A multi-marker assay to distinguish malignant melanomas from benign nevi
Authors: Kashani-Sabet Mohammed , Rangel Javier , Torabian Sima , Nosrati Mehdi , Simko Jeff , Jablons David M. , Moore Dan H. , Haqq Chris , Miller James R. , Sagebiel Richard W.
Published: March 2009

The histopathological diagnosis of melanoma can be challenging. No currently used molecular markers accurately distinguish between nevus and melanoma. Recent transcriptome analyses have shown the differential expression of several genes in melanoma progression. Here, we describe a multi-marker diagnostic assay using 5 markers (ARPC2, FN1, RGS1, SPP1, and WNT2) overexpressed in melanomas. Immunohistochemical marker expression was analyzed in 693 melanocytic neoplasms comprising a training set (tissue microarray of 534 melanomas and nevi), and 4 independent validation sets: tissue sections of melanoma arising in a nevus; dysplastic nevi; Spitz nevi; and misdiagnosed melanocytic neoplasms. Both intensity and pattern of expression were scored for each marker. Based on the differential expression of these 5 markers between nevi and melanomas in the training set, a diagnostic algorithm was obtained. Using this algorithm, the lesions in the validation sets were diagnosed as nevus or melanoma, and the results were compared with the known histological diagnoses. Both the intensity and pattern of expression of each marker were significantly different in melanomas compared to nevi. The diagnostic algorithm exploiting these differences achieved a specificity of 95% and a sensitivity of 91% in the training set. In the validation sets, the multi-marker assay correctly diagnosed a high percentage of melanomas arising in a nevus, Spitz nevi, dysplastic nevi, and misdiagnosed lesions. The multi-marker assay described here can aid in the diagnosis of melanoma.
State-dependent modulation of CFTR gating by pyrophosphate
Authors: Tsai Ming-Feng , Shimizu Hiroyasu , Sohma Yoshiro , Li Min , Hwang Tzyh-Chang
Published: March 2009

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is an adenosine triphosphate (ATP)-gated chloride channel. ATP-induced dimerization of CFTR's two nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs) has been shown to reflect the channel open state, whereas hydrolysis of ATP is associated with channel closure. Pyrophosphate (PPi), like nonhydrolytic ATP analogues, is known to lock open the CFTR channel for tens of seconds when applied with ATP. Here, we demonstrate that PPi by itself opens the CFTR channel in a Mg2+-dependent manner long after ATP is removed from the cytoplasmic side of excised membrane patches. However, the short-lived open state (τ ∼1.5 s) induced by MgPPi suggests that MgPPi alone does not support a stable NBD dimer configuration. Surprisingly, MgPPi elicits long-lasting opening events (τ ∼30 s) when administrated shortly after the closure of ATP-opened channels. These results indicate the presence of two different closed states (C1 and C2) upon channel closure and a state-dependent effect of MgPPi on CFTR gating. The relative amount of channels entering MgPPi-induced long-open bursts during the ATP washout phase decreases over time, indicating a time-dependent dissipation of the closed state (C2) that can be locked open by MgPPi. The stability of the C2 state is enhanced when the channel is initially opened by N6-phenylethyl-ATP, a high affinity ATP analogue, but attenuated by W401G mutation, which likely weakens ATP binding to NBD1, suggesting that an ATP molecule remains bound to the NBD1 site in the C2 state. Taking advantage of the slow opening rate of Y1219G-CFTR, we are able to identify a C2-equivalent state (C2*), which exists before the channel in the C1 state is opened by ATP. This closed state responds to MgPPi much more inefficiently than the C2 state. Finally, we show that MgAMP-PNP exerts its effects on CFTR gating via a similar mechanism as MgPPi. The structural and functional significance of our findings is discussed.
Role of Matching in Case-Control Studies of Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Cerceo Elizabeth , Lautenbach Ebbing , Linkin Darren R. , Bilker Warren B. , Lee Ingi
Published: March 2009

Of 57 case-control studies of antimicrobial resistance, matching was used in 23 (40%). Matched variables differed substantially across studies. Of these 23 matched case-control studies, 12 (52%) justified the use of matching, and 9 (39%) noted the strengths or limitations of this approach. Analysis that accounted for matching was performed in only 52% of the case-control studies.
Correction for Gridin
et al.
, Trapped modes in curved elastic plates
Authors: Gridin Dmitri , Craster Richard V. , Adamou Alexander T. I.
Published: March 2009

Correction for ‘Trapped modes in curved elastic plates’ by Dmitri Gridin, Richard V. Craster and Alexander T. I. Adamou (Proc. R. Soc. A
461
, 1181–1197.
(doi:
10.1098/rspa.2004.1431
)).

The following paragraphs and equations contain typographical errors that have no consequence for any other equation or result in the above paper.
Ferrous iron oxidation and rusticyanin in halotolerant, acidophilic ‘Thiobacillus prosperus’
Authors: Nicolle James Le C. , Simmons Susan , Bathe Stephan , Norris Paul R.
Published: March 2009

The halotolerant acidophile ‘Thiobacillus prosperus’ was shown to require chloride for growth. With ferrous iron as substrate, growth occurred at a rate similar to that of the well-studied acidophile Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans. Previously, the salt (NaCl) requirement of ‘T. prosperus’ was not clear and its growth on ferrous iron was described as poor. A subtractive hybridization of cDNAs from ferrous-iron-grown and sulfur-grown ‘T. prosperus’ strain V6 led to identification of a cluster of genes similar to the rus operon reported to encode ferrous iron oxidation in A. ferrooxidans. However, the ‘T. prosperus’ gene cluster did not contain a homologue of cyc1, which is thought to encode a key cytochrome c in the pathway of electron transport from ferrous iron in A. ferrooxidans. Rusticyanin, another key protein in ferrous iron oxidation by A. ferrooxidans, was present in ‘T. prosperus’ at similar concentrations in cells grown on either ferrous iron or sulfur.
Delayed association of the NADPH oxidase complex with macrophage vacuoles containing the opportunistic pathogen Burkholderia cenocepacia
Authors: Keith Karen E. , Hynes Daniel W. , Sholdice Judith E. , Valvano Miguel A.
Published: March 2009

Burkholderia cenocepaciacauses chronic lung infections in patients suffering from cystic fibrosis and chronic granulomatous disease. We have previously shown thatB. cenocepaciasurvives intracellularly in macrophages within a membrane vacuole (BcCV) that delays acidification. Here, we report that after macrophage infection with liveB. cenocepaciathere is a ∼6 h delay in the association of NADPH oxidase with BcCVs, while heat-inactivated bacteria are normally trafficked into NADPH oxidase-positive vacuoles. BcCVs in macrophages treated with a functional inhibitor of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator exhibited a further delay in the assembly of the NADPH oxidase complex at the BcCV membrane, but the inhibitor did not affect NADPH oxidase complex assembly onto vacuoles containing heat-inactivatedB. cenocepaciaor liveEscherichia coli. Macrophages produced less superoxide followingB. cenocepaciainfection as compared to heat-inactivatedB. cenocepaciaandE. colicontrols. Reduced superoxide production was associated with delayed deposition of cerium perhydroxide precipitates around BcCVs of macrophages infected with liveB. cenocepacia, as visualized by transmission electron microscopy. Together, our results demonstrate that intracellularB. cenocepaciaresides in macrophage vacuoles displaying an altered recruitment of the NADPH oxidase complex at the phagosomal membrane. This phenomenon may contribute to preventing the efficient clearance of this opportunistic pathogen from the infected airways of susceptible patients.
Clinical usefulness of a supplementary cyclosporin administration with a topical application of maxacalcitol ointment for patients with moderate psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: ABE Masatoshi , SYUTO Tomoko , HASEGAWA Michiko , YOKOYAMA Yoko , ISHIKAWA Osamu
Published: March 2009

In this study, we aimed at confirming the clinical usefulness of a supplementary additional cyclosporin microemulsion preconcentrate (CyA MEPC) administration in 15 patients with psoriasis vulgaris whose disease activity had been unchanged or exacerbated with topical maxacalcitol treatment. Each patient took a supplementary CyA MEPC administration, 2.5 mg/kg per day in addition to maxacalcitol ointment therapy. When the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) score revealed over a 75% decrease against the initial value, the administration of CyA MEPC was tapered off, and a topical application of maxacalcitol ointment was continued for the maintenance phase. All patients could obtain improvement within 12 weeks. In 12 patients whose PASI score reduced over 75%, CyA MEPC was tapered off. Of those, five patients remained in remission by maxacalcitol ointment for over 12 months and three patients for 6 months. In conclusion, this preliminary study may suggest that supplementary therapy of short‐term CyA MEPC administration in combination with topical vitamin D3 treatment may be worth trying for patients with moderate psoriasis vulgaris.
Comparative study of direct polymerase chain reaction, microscopic examination and culture‐based morphological methods for detection and identification of dermatophytes in nail and skin samples
Authors: UCHIDA Takao , MAKIMURA Koichi , ISHIHARA Katsuhito , GOTO Hideaki , TAJIRI Yoshito , OKUMA Mariko , FUJISAKI Ryuichi , UCHIDA Katsuhisa , ABE Sigeru , IIJIMA Masafumi
Published: March 2009

The positive rates of dermatophytes isolated and identified by conventional methods are rather low. Moreover, clinical isolates sometimes show atypical morphology, and in such cases microscopic methods are not applicable for identification. The present study was performed to assess the utility of specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based methods for Trichophyton rubrum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes as diagnostic tools for dermatophytoses. Both conventional morphological identification and specific PCR methods based on the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS)1 DNA sequence were performed to identify dermatophyte species from clinical specimens of patients who visited Kawasaki Social Insurance Hospital between 16 May and 17 August 2005. Specific PCR methods were also directly applied to clinical specimens, and the results of the two methods were compared. The clinical samples examined consisted of 126 skin scale specimens and 80 nail specimens. The positive rates of culture isolation from clinical specimens were 67% and 33% for skin scale and nail specimens, respectively. In contrast, PCR analysis yielded a positive rate of 100% for clinical isolates from both skin scales and nails, and rates of 95% and 99% were obtained by direct application to clinical specimens. The results of the present study indicated that specific PCR is highly advantageous as a diagnostic tool for detection and identification of dermatophytes on direct application to skin scale or nail specimens.
Plasmocytosis circumorificialis successfully treated with topical fusidic acid ointment
Authors: SARUYA Kanako , FUKUDA Hidetsugu , SAITO Ryuzo , URUSHIBATA Osamu , MUKAI Hideki
Published: March 2009

Plasmocytosis circumorificialis is a benign chronic inflammatory disease, which causes erythema, erosions, ulcers, nodules and related changes in and around the openings of the human body, and is histopathologically characterized by dense infiltration of the dermis by plasma cells. We recently encountered a 49‐year‐old man in whom this disease affected the lower lip. On initial examination in our department, a well‐demarcated region of erosion (10 mm × 5 mm), accompanied in part by formation of a crust, was noted on the left side of his lower lip. Histopathologically, the mucosal epithelium exhibited erosions, and dense plasma cell infiltration, without signs of atypia, was noted in the upper through middle layers of the lamina propria. On the basis of these findings, plasmocytosis circumorificialis was diagnosed. Because the patient had experienced repeated cycles of remission and relapse, despite topical treatment with various drugs (e.g. topical antibiotics and steroids), prior to referral to our department, we administered topical 2% fusidate sodium or Fucidin (Leo Pharmaceutical, Ballerup, Denmark) ointment. His eruption healed approximately 3 weeks after the start of this treatment. We report this case and discuss the findings reported in Japan on the development of plasmocytosis circumorificialis of the lips.
Evaluation of the effect of autologous mesenchymal stem cell injection in a large‐animal model of bilateral kidney ischaemia reperfusion injury
Authors: Behr L. , Hekmati M. , Lucchini A. , Houcinet K. , Faussat A.‐M. , Borenstein N. , Noel L.‐H. , Lelievre‐Pegorier M. , Laborde K.
Published: March 2009

Objectives: Adult mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) have been proven to be of benefit to the kidney in different experimental models of renal injuries. All studies have been performed in valuable rodent models, but the relevance of these results to large mammals and ultimately, to humans remains unknown. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of MSC transplantation in an alternative ovine large‐animal model of bilateral kidney ischaemia reperfusion injury.

Material and methods: Sheep were divided into three groups: one sham‐operated group and two groups submitted to renal bilateral ischaemia for 60 min. Animals with ischaemia reperfusion injury were treated with injection of autologous MSCs or with vehicle medium.

Results: The model sheep presented with renal histological manefestations that closely resembled lesions seen in patients. Transplanted MSCs were found in glomeruli but not in tubules and did not express glomerular cell markers (podocin, von Willebrand factor), but functional evaluation showed no beneficial effect of MSC infusion. Morphological and molecular analyses corroborated the functional results. MSCs did not repair kidney parenchyma and failed to modulate cell death and proliferation or cytokine release (tumour necrosis factor‐alpha, vascular endothelial growth factor alpha (VEGF‐α), Bcl‐2, caspase).

Conclusion: In this unique autologous large‐animal model, MSCs did not exhibit reparative or paracrine protective properties.
Welcome back New Zealand: regional biogeography and Gondwanan origin of three endemic genera of mite harvestmen (Arachnida, Opiliones, Cyphophthalmi)
Authors: Boyer Sarah L. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: March 2009

Aim  Biogeographers have long been intrigued by New Zealand’s biota due to its unique combination of typical ‘continental’ and ‘island’ characteristics. The New Zealand plateau rifted from the former supercontinent Gondwana c. 80 Ma, and has been isolated from other land masses ever since. Therefore, the flora and fauna of New Zealand include lineages that are Gondwanan in origin, but also include a very large number of endemics. In this study, we analyse the evolutionary relationships of three genera of mite harvestmen (Arachnida, Opiliones, Cyphophthalmi) endemic to New Zealand, both to each other and to their temperate Gondwanan relatives found in Australia, Chile, Sri Lanka and South Africa.

Location  New Zealand (North Island, South Island and Stewart Island).

Methods  A total of 94 specimens of the family Pettalidae in the suborder Cyphophthalmi were studied, representing 31 species and subspecies belonging to three endemic genera from New Zealand (Aoraki, Neopurcellia and Rakaia) plus six other members of the family from Chile, South Africa, Sri Lanka and Australia. The phylogeny of these taxa was constructed using morphological and molecular data from five nuclear and mitochondrial genes (18S rRNA, 28S rRNA, 16S rRNA, cytochrome c oxidase subunit I and histone H3, totalling c. 5 kb), which were analysed using dynamic as well as static homology under a variety of optimality criteria.

Results  The results showed that each of the three New Zealand cyphophthalmid genera is monophyletic, and occupies a distinct geographical region within the archipelago, grossly corresponding to palaeogeographical regions. All three genera of New Zealand mite harvestmen fall within the family Pettalidae with a classic temperate Gondwanan distribution, but they do not render any other genera paraphyletic.

Main conclusions  Our study shows that New Zealand’s three genera of mite harvestmen are unequivocally related to other members of the temperate Gondwanan family Pettalidae. Monophyly of each genus contradicts the idea of recent dispersal to New Zealand. Within New Zealand, striking biogeographical patterns are apparent in this group of short‐range endemics, particularly in the South Island. These patterns are interpreted in the light of New Zealand’s turbulent geological history and present‐day patterns of forest cover.
Review: Neuropathology of acute phase encephalitis lethargica: a review of cases from the epidemic period
Authors: Anderson L. L. , Vilensky J. A. , Duvoisin R. C.
Published: March 2009

Introduction: Encephalitis lethargica (EL), an epidemic disease of the early 20th century, has continued to be diagnosed sporadically since that time, including a report of 20 new cases in 2004. Many of the recent case reports state that the primary neuropathology of acute EL consists of inflammatory changes and lesions within the midbrain, basal ganglia and substantia nigra. However, the neuropathology of acute EL cases from the epidemic period was actually much more widespread. Methods: In order to characterize the neuropathology of acute phase EL, we developed a database of EL pathology based on 112 cases from the years 1915 to 1940, of which most died within 2 weeks of EL onset. Results: Our analysis revealed that cortical damage was prevalent in 75% of the 112 cases; damage to the meninges and brainstem occurred in approximately half of the cases; and the substantia nigra was damaged in only 13% of these acute cases. We also found that after 1921, damage to cranial nerve nuclei was not reported. An analysis of the neuropathology and clinical symptoms revealed little correlation. Conclusions: Based on these findings, putative modern cases of acute EL with MRI/CT indicated lesions confined solely to the midbrain, brainstem, and/or basal ganglia should not be considered, consistent with that reported during epidemic period.
Selective recruitment of proteins to 5′ cap complexes during the growth cycle in Arabidopsis
Authors: Bush Maxwell S. , Hutchins Andrew P. , Jones Alexandra M.E. , Naldrett Mike J. , Jarmolowski Artur , Lloyd Clive W. , Doonan John H.
Published: March 2009

Translation of most mRNAs is performed in a cap‐dependent manner, requiring a protein complex, the cap complex, to regulate the accessibility of the message to the 40S ribosome. The cap complex initiates protein translation by binding to the 5′ cap of an mRNA and recruiting ribosomes to begin translation. Compared to animals and yeast, there are significant plant‐specific differences in the regulation of cap‐dependent mRNA translation, but these are poorly understood. Here, we purified proteins that bind to the 5′ cap during the Arabidopsis growth cycle. The protein profile of the cap‐binding complexes varies during the various stages of the growth cycle in suspension culture cells. Using Western blotting, the cap complexes of quiescent cells were found to be composed of only three major proteins: eIF4isoE, which is primarily a cytoplasmic protein, and eIF4E and CBP80, which accumulate in the nucleus. However, when cells proliferate, at least 10 major proteins bind directly or indirectly to the 5′ cap. Proteomic, Western blotting and immunoprecipitation data establish that the spectrum of RNA helicases in the cap complexes also changes during the growth cycle. Cap complexes from proliferating cultures mainly contain eIF4A, which associates with at least four cap complexes, but eIF4A is replaced by additional helicases in quiescent cells. These findings suggest that the dynamic and selective recruitment of various proteins to mRNA 5′ cap complexes could play an important role in the regulation of gene expression.
Immunohistochemical staining of liver grafts with a monoclonal antibody against HCV‐Envelope 2 for recurrent hepatitis C after living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Sadamori Hiroshi , Yagi Takahito , Iwagaki Hiromi , Matsuda Hiroaki , Shinoura Susumu , Umeda Yuzo , Ohara Nobuya , Yanai Hiroyuki , Ogino Tetsuya , Tanaka Noriaki
Published: March 2009

Aim:  We evaluated the expression of hepatitis C virus (HCV) antigen on liver grafts by immunohistochemical staining (IHS) using IG222 monoclonal antibody (mAb) against HCV‐envelope 2 (E2).

Methods:  The study material was 84 liver biopsy specimens obtained from 28 patients who underwent living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) for HCV infection. The biopsy samples were examined histopathologically, and by IHS using IG222 mAb against HCV‐E2. Serum HCV‐RNA level was measured in all patients. The IHS grades were compared among the three groups classified according to the time elapsed from LDLT (at 1–30, 31–179 and ≥180 days post‐LDLT) and among four post‐transplant conditions, including acute cellular rejection (ACR).

Results:  Immunoreactivity to IG222 was detected in 78.6% of the specimens obtained during the first month after LDLT, and there were no significant differences on the IHS grades between the three groups classified according to the time elapsed from LDLT. The IHS grades were significantly stronger in definite recurrent HCV (n = 12) and probable recurrent HCV (n = 7) than in definite ACR (n = 7) and other complications (n = 8). There were no significant differences in serum HCV‐RNA levels among the four post‐transplant conditions. There was no significant correlation between the IHS grades using IG222 mAb and serum HCV‐RNA levels when data of 84 liver biopsy specimens were analyzed.

Conclusions:  Constant HCV‐E2 expression was observed in liver biopsy specimens obtained 1 month or longer. The strong HCV‐E2 expression on liver grafts were associated with recurrent hepatitis C after LDLT, but the serum HCV‐RNA levels were not.
Hepatitis B virus genotypes, subgenotypes, precore, and basal core promoter mutations in the two largest provinces of Pakistan
Authors: Ahmed Choudhary Shoaib , Wang Zhan‐hui , Bin Zhou , Chen Jin‐jun , Kamal Mustafa , Hou Jin‐lin
Published: March 2009

Background and Aim:  Hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotyping has been done in most countries, but unfortunately, in Pakistan, HBV genotypic distribution is still unclear. The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalent genotype and subgenotype in the two most populated provinces in Pakistan: Punjab and Sind.

Methods:  In total, 236 HBV DNA‐positive samples were selected for genotyping by polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). The RFLP results were further confirmed with whole genome and partial genome sequencing.

Results:  Genotype D was detected as the most prevalent (93.22%) genotype in all eight cities of both provinces; genotype C was present in 5.93% and genotype A was present in 0.85% of the samples. The D1 subtype was present in 84%, and D2 was present in 8% of 25 whole genome‐sequenced samples. The C2 subtype was detected in 58.33% of S gene‐sequenced samples, while D1 was detected in the remaining 41.67% of 24 samples sequenced for the S gene. Subtype D1 is the most dominant in D, while C2 is dominant in genotype C. Eight‐ and 15‐bp deletion mutations were also detected in genotype D samples. Other precore and basal core promoter (BCP) mutations included T1915 (100%), A1679 (86.96%), T1762 (39.13%), and A1764 (30.43%), which were also detected in the genotype D samples.

Conclusion:  Genotype D subtype D1 is the most prevalent HBV strain in Pakistan with 8‐bp deletion mutants the most common in HBV carriers.
Review article: Progress of treatment in ANCA‐associated vasculitis
Authors: JAYNE DAVID
Published: March 2009

This study reports on innovations in the field of, and current approaches to, the therapy of ANCA‐associated vasculitis (AAV). Randomized clinical trials and prospective open label trial of newer therapies performed in the last 15 years in Wegener's granulomatosis and microscopic polyangiitis or both (AAV) were reviewed. Although cyclophosphamide remains the favoured immunosuppressive for remission induction, the use of alternative immunosuppressives and of intravenous pulsed administration have reduced cyclophosphamide exposure and are likely to increase the safety of treatment. Mycophenolate mofetil, leflunomide and deoxyspergualin are newer immunosuppressive drugs which have been evaluated in AAV, while tumpur necrosis factor, alemtuumab and rituximab are ‘biologic’ agents that have received attention. There is insufficient study of the dosing of glucocorticoids. Plasma exchange is indicated for severe renal vasculitis. Outcomes for elderly patients presenting with severe renal impairment are often poor despite optimal therapy. The development of collaborative networks in Europe and the USA has facilitated the conduct of larger randomized controlled trials. These have led to consensus recommendations on how AAV should be treated. Many newer agents are currently under evaluation which have the potential to improve AAV outcomes in the future.
Molecular pathological approaches to human tumor immunology
Authors: Sato Noriyuki , Hirohashi Yoshihiko , Tsukahara Tomohide , Kikuchi Tomoki , Sahara Hiroeki , Kamiguchi Kenjiro , Ichimiya Shingo , Tamura Yasuaki , Torigoe Toshihiko
Published: March 2009

Research on human tumor immunology has greatly advanced in the past two decades. Many immunogenic tumor antigens have been identified, and some of these antigens entered in clinical trials. Consequently, it has been shown that these antigens can inhibit tumor growth in patients to some extent, indicating that they act as potent immunogenic therapeutic vaccines in cancer patients with malignancies originating from various tissues. These patients had antigen‐specific cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte (CTL) responses when assessed on tetramer, enzyme‐linked immunospot (ELISPOT), T‐cell clonotype and CTL induction efficiency. Thus, it has become clear that human tumor vaccines can evoke clinical and immunological anti‐tumor responses in patients. The tumor regression effects of tumor vaccines, however, are generally low, and it is obvious that current vaccination protocols are generally too weak to provide substantial and satisfactory clinical benefits. This means that other drastic and more potent clinical and immunological protocols are required in cancer immunotherapy. To find such efficient protocols the basic immunological and biological properties of cancers must be investigated. In the present review the identification of human tumor antigens recognized on CTL and the clinical trials are introduced. Next, the most recent analysis of human cancer‐initiating cell (cancer stem cell)‐associated antigens is described. These antigens might be able to act as ‘universal, general and fundamental’ tumor antigens. Also present is the authors' recent study for increasing cross‐presentation efficiency in dendritic cells and subsequent enhancement of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐class I‐restricted peptide antigenicity by using HSP90 and ORP150 molecular chaperones that act as endogenous Toll‐like receptor ligands. In addition to the aforementioned manipulation of the positive loop of tumor immunity, it is necessary to regulate and intervene in the negative loop. In particular, the potential of the expression of HLA class I molecule regulation by epigenetic mechanisms will be discussed. Finally, the type of basic and clinical tumor immunology research highly required currently, and in the very near future, are described.
Conversion of a neonatal hepatic hemangioma to focal nodular hyperplasia
Authors: Turowski Carmen , Feist Henning , Alzen Gerhard , Glüer Sylvia , Petersen Claus
Published: March 2009

Hepatic hemangioma and focal nodular hyperplasia are both frequently observed benign lesions of the liver. Whereas hepatic hemangioma is the most frequent benign liver tumor in children, focal nodular hyperplasia occurs predominantly in adult patients. Concomitance of both entities has been described in adults, suggesting a similar pathogenesis. We report on a 6‐month‐old child with a continuously shrinking hepatic hemangioma after interventional therapy and a growing hepatic mass 5 years later, which emerged as focal nodular hyperplasia at the site of the former hemangioma. Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies regarding this patient are discussed. The present case supports the theory that these two entities may share a similar pathomechanism.
Comparison of neonatal outcome for inborn and outborn very low‐birthweight preterm infants
Authors: Chung Mei‐Yung , Fang Po‐Chiung , Chung Ching‐Hung , Chen Chih‐Cheng , Hwang Kao‐Pin , Chen Feng‐Shun
Published: March 2009

Background:  The aim of the present study was to compare the neonatal outcome of very low‐birthweight (VLBW) preterm infants with regard to inborn and outborn status in a medical center of Southern Taiwan, where short‐distance neonatal transport is the rule and maternal transport was not well established.

Methods:  This retrospective study included outborn VLBW preterm infants admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit of Chang Gung Memorial Hospital at Kaohsiung after neonatal transport during the period from 1999 through 2003. An equal number of inborn preterm infants matched for gender and birthweight were included as controls. Infants with lethal congenital anomalies or who died in the delivery room were excluded. Data were collected from reviewing medical charts.

Results:  A total of 34 inborn VLBW infants and 34 outborn VLBW infants with neonatal transport were included. Chronic lung disease (CLD) was significantly more frequent in the outborn group according to McNemar test (P = 0.0124) and logistic regression. Logistic regression also showed that outborn status (P = 0.0173) and birthweight (P = 0.0024) were the two most important risk factors for development of CLD.

Conclusion:  Well‐trained short distance neonatal transport is useful and valuable for VLBW infants with gestation age of 27–34 weeks in Southern Taiwan. The respiratory outcome, however, was poor in the outborn group in terms of incidence of CLD. To improve the respiratory outcome, further modification of respiratory care during transportation or antenatal maternal transport is crucial.
Pediatric chronic daily headache associated with school phobia
Authors: Fujita Mitsue , Fujiwara Junko , Maki Takako , Shibasaki Kayoko , Shigeta Midori , Nii Junko
Published: March 2009

Background:  Children and adolescents with school phobia sometimes complain of severe and persistent headaches that are diagnosed as chronic daily headache (CDH).

Methods:  We investigated 24 children with CDH and school phobia, and 26 children with CDH but without school phobia.

Results:  Of 24 children with CDH and school phobia, 4% had chronic migraine (CM), 46% had chronic tension‐type headache (CTTH) and 50% had both CTTH and migraine. However, of 26 children with CDH but without school phobia, 61% had CM, 24% had CTTH, 11% had CTTH and migraine, and 4% had new daily‐persistent headache. There was a significantly higher rate of CTTH and both CTTH and migraine in children with CDH and school phobia than that in children with CDH but without school phobia (P < 0.0001). All of the 24 children with CDH and school phobia were found to have psychiatric disorders. Of 24 children, 71% were found to have adjustment disorders, 21% were found to have anxiety disorders, and 8% were found to have conversion disorder. Of 26 children with CDH but without school phobia, only 20% were found to have psychiatric disorders. There was a significantly higher rate of psychiatric disorders in children with CDH and school phobia than in children with CDH but without school phobia (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:  Our study indicated that children with CDH and school phobia had problems in school and/or family and psychiatric disorders. They should be diagnosed and treated attentively not only for headaches but also for their psychosocial problems and psychiatric disorders.
Mean platelet volume in neonatal respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Canpolat Fuat Emre , Yurdakök Murat , Armangil Didem , Yiğit Şule
Published: March 2009

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences in mean platelet volume (MPV) between neonates with and without neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (RDS). Eighty‐three premature infants who were admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit were included in the study. Forty‐four of these infants were diagnosed as having RDS and the other 39 infants were non‐RDS patients. Infants born to mothers with pre‐eclampsia, or a drug history that had negative effects on platelet count, perinatal hypoxia, sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis were excluded. Blood collection was done on the first and third days of life. There were no demographic, gestational or platelet count differences between groups, but MPV was higher in RDS patients and this difference was statistically significant (P= 0.011). High platelet volumes in RDS patients is probably related to young platelet production and may be a result of increased platelet consumption in pulmonary damage due to RDS.