bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Colorectal cancers show distinct mutation spectra in members of the canonical WNT signaling pathway according to their anatomical location and type of genetic instability
Authors: Albuquerque Cristina , Baltazar Célia , Filipe Bruno , Penha Filipa , Pereira Teresa , Smits Ron , Cravo Marília , Lage Pedro , Fidalgo Paulo , Claro Isabel , Rodrigues Paula , Veiga Isabel , Ramos José Silva , Fonseca Isabel , Leitão Carlos Nobre , Fodde Riccardo
Published: May 2010

It is unclear whether the mutation spectra in WNT genes vary among distinct types of colorectal tumors. We have analyzed mutations in specific WNT genes in a cohort of 52 colorectal tumors and performed a meta‐analysis of previous studies. Notably, significant differences were found among the mutation spectra. We have previously shown that in familial adenomatous polyposis, APC somatic mutations are selected to provide the “just‐right” level of WNT signaling for tumor formation. Here, we found that APC mutations encompassing at least two β‐catenin down‐regulating motifs (20 a.a. repeats) are significantly more frequent in microsatellite unstable (MSI‐H) than in microsatellite stable (MSS) tumors where truncations retaining less than two repeats are more frequent (P = 0.0009). Moreover, in cases where both APC hits are detected, selection for mutations retaining a cumulative number of two 20 a.a. repeats became apparent in MSI‐H tumors (P = 0.001). This type of mutations were also more frequent in proximal versus distal colonic tumors, regardless of MSI status (P = 0.0008). Among MSI‐H tumors, CTNNB1 mutations were significantly more frequent in HNPCC than in sporadic lesions (28% versus 6%, P < 10‐6) and were preferentially detected in the proximal colon, independently of MSI status (P = 0.017). In conclusion, the observed spectra of WNT gene mutations in colorectal tumors are likely the result from selection of specific levels of β‐catenin signaling, optimal for tumor formation in the context of specific anatomical locations and forms of genetic instability. We suggest that this may underlie the preferential location of MMR deficient tumors in the proximal colon. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In the Rhythm of the Vegetation
Authors: Wiegand Kerstin
Published: May 2010

Many savannahs are considered to be threatened. But the massive areas, covering a fifth of the earth, have a dynamic of their own: The apparently unstoppable encroachment of scrub appears to be just a natural transitional stage
Quality over Quantity
Authors: Kleiner Matthias
Published: May 2010

The flood of publications is detrimental to science. The DFG now responds in its own way: Our mandatory rules for publication lists in funding proposals and final reports mark a paradigm shift
Words that Won't Go Away
Authors: Stötzel Georg , Eitz Thorsten
Published: May 2010

Coming to terms with the past: A dictionary of “Vergangenheitsbewältigung” illustrates how “charged” German terms have been used publicly in Germany since 1945
Flexible Heart Surgery
Authors: Hirzinger Gerhard , Hagn Ulrich
Published: May 2010

Basic research in medical technology: An innovative robotic platform makes minimally invasive surgery even more intelligent and efficient
The heart of the South American rattlesnake, Crotalus durissus
Authors: Jensen Bjarke , Abe Augusto S. , Andrade Denis V. , Nyengaard Jens R. , Wang Tobias
Published: May 2010

Most anatomical and physiological studies of the sauropsid heart have focused on species with extraordinary physiologies, and detailed anatomical descriptions of hearts from sauropsids with more common physiologies are therefore warranted. Here, we present a comprehensive study of the cardiac anatomy of the South American rattlesnake (Crotalus durissus). The cardiovascular physiology of this species has been investigated in a number of studies, whereas only a few cursory studies exist on the cardiac anatomy of viperid snakes. The heart of C. durissus is typically squamate in many regards. Both atria are thin‐walled sacs, and the right atrium is the most voluminous. The single ventricle contains three major septa; the vertical septum, the muscular ridge (MR), and the bulbuslamelle. These partially divide the ventricle into three chambers; the systemic and left‐sided cavum arteriosum (CA), the pulmonary and right‐sided cavum pulmonale, and the medial cavum venosum (CV). The MR is the most developed septum, and several additional and minor septa are found within the CA and CV. An extraordinary thin cortical layer encloses the ventricle, and it is irrigated by a remarkably rich arborization of coronary arteries. Previous studies show high degrees of blood flow separation in the Crotalus heart, and this can only be explained by the coordinated actions of the septa and the prominent atrioventricular valves. J. Morphol. 271:1066‐1077, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Goblin spiders without distinct receptacula seminis (Arachnida: Araneae: Oonopidae)
Authors: Burger Matthias
Published: May 2010

The mechanism of sperm transfer in spiders is unique among arthropods. Males use their modified pedipalps to transmit sperm which is received by females of most spider groups in specialized organs, the receptacula seminis. Oonopidae are a diverse spider family belonging to the Haplogynae. Female haplogynes have supposedly simple genitalia where the receptacula derive from the uterus externus, which is the duct passed by the eggs. The purpose of the present study is to describe the unusual female genitalia of the oonopids Xyphinus sp. and Ischnothyreus sp. by combining three methods of investigation: histological serial sections, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray ultra microscopy, and to compare the results with previous findings on haplogynes. Furthermore, the male palps are briefly described. The female genitalia of both investigated species do not correspond to the general description of haplogyne genitalia given in the literature. Distinct receptacula are lacking in both species. In Xyphinus sp., sperm are deposited into the uterus internus. A sclerite with attached muscles in the uterus wall might serve females to lock the uterus during copulation in order to prevent sperm from getting into it. The male palp of Xyphinus sp. bears complicated structures indicating that males could use the palps as copulatory courtship devices. The ventral scutum of female Ischnothyreus sp. forms a large depression which was always empty in the examined specimens. Sperm could be stored in a large fold of the uterus externus. As in Xyphinus sp., spermatozoa inside the uterus internus of Ischnothyreus sp. indicate that fertilization takes place in the uterus or the ovary. The function of a sclerotized squiggled tube in females of Ischnothyreus sp. remains unknown. Surrounding glandular tissue suggests the involvement of the tube in glandular activity. The male palp shows a simple embolus accompanied by a small conductor. J. Morphol. 271:1110–1118, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A comparison of cyclic variations in anterior knee laxity, genu recurvatum, and general joint laxity across the menstrual cycle
Authors: Shultz Sandra J. , Levine Beverly J. , Nguyen Anh‐Dung , Kim Hyunsoo , Montgomery Melissa M. , Perrin David H.
Published: May 2010

Changes in anterior knee laxity (AKL), genu recurvatum (GR) and general joint laxity (GJL) were quantified across days of the early follicular and early luteal phases of the menstrual cycle in 66 females, and the similarity in their pattern of cyclic variations examined. Laxity was measured on each of the first 6 days of menses (M1–M6) and the first 8 days following ovulation (L1–L8) over two cycles. The largest mean differences were observed between L5 and L8 for AKL (0.32 mm), and between L5 and M1 for GR (0.56°) and GJL (0.26) (p < 0.013). At the individual level, mean absolute cyclic changes in AKL (1.8 ± 0.7 mm, 1.6 ± 0.7 mm), GR (2.8 ± 1.0°, 2.4 ± 1.0°), and GJL (1.1 ± 1.1, 0.7 ± 1.0) were more apparent, with minimum, maximum and delta values being quite consistent from month to month (ICC2,3 = 0.51–0.98). Although the average daily pattern of change in laxity was quite similar between variables (Spearman correlation range 0.61 and 0.90), correlations between laxity measures at the individual level were much lower (range −0.07 to 0.43). Substantial, similar, and reproducible cyclic changes in AKL, GR, and GJL were observed across the menstrual cycle, with the magnitude and pattern of cyclic changes varying considerably among females. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:1411–1417, 2010
Polyneuropathy caused by cobalt–chromium metallosis after total hip replacement
Authors: Ikeda Tokuhei , Takahashi Kazuya , Kabata Tamon , Sakagoshi Daigo , Tomita Katsuro , Yamada Masahito
Published: May 2010

Although metal intoxication after arthroplasty causes various symptoms, polyneuropathy has never been the focus of clinical investigation. We report the case of a 56‐year‐old woman with metal neuropathy. She had metallosis after hip arthroplasty with a cobalt–chromium alloy prosthesis. She developed progressive sensory disturbance, hearing loss, and hypothyroidism. Sural nerve biopsy indicated axonopathy. After exchange arthroplasty, blood levels of cobalt and chromium decreased, and her symptoms improved. Cobalt or chromium can cause axonopathy. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Psychosocial adjustment during the transition to parenthood of Portuguese couples who conceived spontaneously or through assisted reproductive technologies
Authors: Gameiro Sofia , Moura‐Ramos Mariana , Canavarro Maria Cristina , Soares Isabel
Published: May 2010

We examined the psychosocial adjustment of 35 Portuguese couples who conceived through Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) and 31 couples with a spontaneous conception during their transition to parenthood (pregnancy and 4 months postpartum). Couples completed self‐report questionnaires regarding their perceptions of pregnancy and parenthood, psychological distress, quality of life, marital relationship, and parenting stress. Compared with parents who conceived spontaneously, parents who conceived through ART perceived pregnancy as being more risky and demanding, reported a decrease in their psychological quality of life, and ART fathers only perceived themselves as being more competent than fathers who conceived spontaneously. Healthcare professionals should be aware of need of couples in their efforts to adapt to the individual and relational challenges associated with the transition to parenthood. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:207–220, 2010
A modified hermeneutic phenomenological approach toward individuals who have autism
Authors: Newman Claire , Cashin Andrew , Waters Cheryl D.
Published: May 2010

Individuals with autism have a unique cognitive processing style characterized by impaired abstraction, impaired theory of mind, and visual as opposed to linguistic processing of information. A consequence of this unique cognitive processing style is that traditional ways of hermeneutical phenomenological examination may be inadequate to achieve the kind of understanding of experience toward which this method is directed. In order to stay true to Heidegger's hermeneutic phenomenology, we needed to develop modifications to this research methodology, which include the use of visual aids to promote participant engagement and access the eidetic memory of a participant with autism, so as to elicit concrete descriptors of an experience. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:265–271, 2010
An improvement on the adhesion‐strength of laminated ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight polyethylene fabrics: surface‐etching/modification using highly effective helium/oxygen/nitrogen plasma treatment
Authors: Yeh Jen‐Taut , Lai Yu‐Ching , Suen Maw‐Cherng , Chen Cheng‐Chi
Published: May 2010

In this study, helium/oxygen/nitrogen (He/O2/N2)‐plasma was used to etch/modify the surface of ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber. After coated with polyurethane (PU), the plasma treated UHMWPE fabrics were laminated. It was found that the values of peeling strength between the laminated UHMWPE fabrics treated with He/O2/N2‐plasma were significantly higher (3–4 times) than that between pristine fabrics. The hydrophilic property and the value of the surface roughness of the UHMWPE fibers increased significantly after treated with He/O2/N2‐plasma. The mechanism of the oxidation/degradation of the polymers on the surface of the UHMWPE fiber during He/O2/N2‐plasma treatment was suggested. In addition, it was found that the higher content of functional groups (carbonyl, aldehyde, and carboxylic acid) on fiber surface and the higher value of surface roughness of the UHMWPE fiber treated with He/O2/N2‐plasma could significantly improve the adhesion‐strength of the laminated UHMWPE fabric. Especially, the micro‐aperture on the surface of UHMWPE fiber caused by the strenuous etching of He/O2/N2‐plasma treatment was also an important factor on improving the adhesion‐strength between the laminated UHMWPE fabrics. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DeepQuanTR: MALDI‐MS‐based label‐free quantification of proteins in complex biological samples
Authors: Fugmann Tim , Neri Dario , Roesli Christoph
Published: May 2010

The quantification of changes in protein abundance in complex biological specimens is essential for proteomic studies in basic and applied research. Here we report on the development and validation of the DeepQuanTR software for identification and quantification of differentially expressed proteins using LC‐MALDI‐MS. Following enzymatic digestion, HPLC peptide separation and normalization of MALDI‐MS signal intensities to the ones of internal standards, the software extracts peptide features, adjusts differences in HPLC retention times and performs a relative quantification of features. The annotation of multiple peptides to the corresponding parent protein allows the definition of a Protein Quant Value, which is related to protein abundance and which allows inter‐sample comparisons. The performance of DeepQuanTR was evaluated by analyzing 24 samples deriving from human serum spiked with different amounts of four proteins and eight complex samples of vascular proteins, derived from surgically resected human kidneys with cancer following ex vivo perfusion with a reactive ester biotin derivative. The identification and experimental validation of proteins, which were differentially regulated in cancerous lesions as compared with normal kidney, was used to demonstrate the power of DeepQuanTR. This software, which can easily be used with established proteomic methodologies, facilitates the relative quantification of proteins derived from a wide variety of different samples.
Comparative physiological, ultrastructural and proteomic analyses reveal sexual differences in the responses ofPopulus cathayanaunder drought stress
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Chen Fugui , Peng Shuming , Ma Wujun , Korpelainen Helena , Li Chunyang
Published: May 2010

Drought is a major abiotic stress, limiting the survival and growth of young plants. However, little is known about sex‐dependent responses to drought at the proteome level. In this study, we carried out investigations on comparative proteomics, combined with physiological and organelle structure analyses, in males and females ofPopulus cathayanaRehd. Three‐month‐old poplar cuttings were treated at 30% of field capacity and at 100% field capacity as a control in a greenhouse for 40 days. Drought greatly inhibited plant growth, damaged the photosynthetic system and destructed the structures of chloroplasts, mitochondria and cellular membranes. However, males suffered less from the adverse effects of drought than did females. Using 2‐DE, 563 spots were detected, of which 64 spots displayed significant drought effect and 44 spots displayed a significant sex by drought interaction effect. The results suggest that the different responses to drought stress detected between the sexes have a close relationship to the changes in the expression of sex‐dependent proteins, including,e.g.photosynthesis‐related proteins, homeostasis‐related proteins and stress response proteins. These proteins could contribute to a physiological advantage under drought, giving potential clues for understanding sexual differences in the performance of plants in different environments.
MASPECTRAS 2: An integration and analysis platform for proteomic data
Authors: Mohien Ceereena Ubaida , Hartler Jürgen , Breitwieser Florian , Rix Uwe , Rix Lily Remsing , Winter Georg E. , Thallinger Gerhard G. , Bennett Keiryn L. , Superti‐Furga Giulio , Trajanoski Zlatko , Colinge Jacques
Published: May 2010

MASPECTRAS 2 is a freely available platform for integrating MS protein identifications with information from the major bioinformatics databases (ontologies, domains, literature, etc.). It assists researchers in understanding their data and publishing through sample comparisons, targeted queries, summaries, and exports in multiple formats such as PRIDE XML (Jones et al., Nucleic Acids Res. 2008, 36, D878–D883). MASPECTRAS 2 also comprises mechanisms to facilitate its integration in a high‐throughput infrastructure. We illustrate application of MASPECTRAS 2 with unpublished tyrosine kinase inhibitor drug proteomics profiles in cancerous cells.
Quantitative evaluation of tryptophan oxidation in actin and troponin I from skeletal muscles using a rat model of acute oxidative stress
Authors: Fedorova Maria , Todorovsky Toni , Kuleva Nadezda , Hoffmann Ralf
Published: May 2010

Increased levels of “ROS” cause oxidative stress and are believed to play a key role in the development of age‐related diseases and mammalian aging, e.g. through the oxidation of residues, at or close to, the protein surface. In this study, we have investigated the effects of ROS on tryptophan residues in alpha skeletal actin and troponin I (fast skeletal muscle isoform) using an established rat model of acute oxidative stress induced by X‐ray irradiation. In the control samples (no oxidative stress), the single Trp residue of troponin I (position 161) and the four tryptophan residues present in actin (positions 79, 86, 340, and 356) were only oxidized at very low levels. Post‐irradiation, the level of oxidized versions increased for most positions within 3 h. Tryptophan residues located inside the proteins, however, required longer time periods. Based on the increment masses of the tryptophan positions calculated from the b‐ and y‐ion series of the tandem mass spectra, the following oxidation products of tryptophan were detected: kynurenine; oxolactone; hydroxytryptophan or oxindolylalanine (isobaric); hydroxykynurenine; dioxindolylalanine, N‐formylkynurenine or dihydroxytryptophan (all three isobaric); and hydroxyl‐N‐formylkynurenine, with mass gains relative to tryptophan of 4, 14, 16, 20, 32, and 48 u, respectively. Despite a partial recovery after 24 h, the degree of oxidation of all oxidized versions was still higher than in the control samples.
Mobilizing Social Networks Beyond Project Team Frontiers: The Case of Polar Expeditions
Authors: Lecoutre Marc , Lièvre Pascal
Published: May 2010

New movements in project management are pushing project teams to hunt down contacts well outside their regular networks, to tackle problems encountered throughout project rollout. This raises the issue of initiating cooperation with someone unknown—that is, harnessing weak ties to tap into resources well outside the comfort zone. Our investigations into polar expedition projects has led us to develop the notion of a potentially cooperative weak tie converging Granovetter's approach with a synthesis about cooperation differentiating identity-sense and utilitarian mechanisms. We conclude that a weak tie can initiate a cooperation only if it includes one of these two sources of cooperation.
Consideration of regional difference in design and analysis of multi‐regional trials
Authors: Hung H. M. James , Wang Sue‐Jane , O'Neill Robert T.
Published: May 2010

Clinical trial strategy, particularly in developing pharmaceutical products, has recently expanded to a global level in the sense that multiple geographical regions participate in the trial simultaneously under the same study protocol. The possible benefits of this strategy are obvious, at least from the cost and efficiency considerations. The challenges with this strategy are many, ranging from trial or data quality assurance to statistical methods for design and analysis of such trials. In many regulatory submissions, the presence of regional differences in the estimated treatment effect, whether they are different only in magnitude or in direction, often presents great difficulty in interpretation of the global trial results, particularly for the acceptability by the local regulatory authorities. This article presents a number of useful statistical analysis tools for exploration of regional differences and a method that may be worth consideration in designing a multi‐regional clinical trial. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of damming on biological quality according to macroinvertebrates in some Estonian streams, Central—Baltic Europe: A pilot study
Authors: Käiro Kairi , Möls Tõnu , Timm Henn , Virro Taavi , Järvekülg Rein
Published: May 2010

The effect of damming on the structure of the macroinvertebrate community and biological quality was studied in nine (the 3–6th order) lowland streams of Estonia, Central—Baltic ecoregion of Europe. Four habitats—reservoirs with accumulated fine sediments, reservoirs with hard bottom, and two corresponding below‐dam areas (both fast‐flowing)—were compared to study whether and how significantly the bottom substrata in dammed areas affected macroinvertebrates and biological quality downstream of dams. The standard kick‐net samples (1.25 m2, complemented with qualitative sample) were collected in autumn 2005—spring 2006. The multimetric biological quality, based on five macroinvertebrate indices (total taxa richness, EPT taxa richness, Average Score Per Taxon, Danish Stream Fauna Index, Shannon diversity) was estimated and compared with reference values. Biological quality in reservoirs with hard bottom and their downstream reaches corresponded to good, or even high quality. Conversely, damming affected biological quality significantly and negatively, above the dam if fine sediments were accumulated. The effect was the strongest within muddy reservoirs themselves (revealing moderate quality only). However, some harmful consequences of mud were observed also downstream of dams. The results also demonstrated that the indices of estimation of organic pollution and/or general quality were able to reflect significant changes in stream flow. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cross‐plane information sharing for QoS in satellite–terrestrial integrated packet networks
Authors: Gopal Rajeev , Gopal Rohit
Published: May 2010

This paper introduces a standards‐based Quality‐of‐Service (QoS) architecture for satellite and terrestrial IP packet network integration to facilitate the evolution of the next generation integrated networks. Cross‐plane information sharing can extend the reach of cross‐layer improvements, typically applied for enhancing throughput and robustness in the wireless networks. Besides supporting real‐time interactive applications for all users, such a QoS architecture can also provide a prioritization framework for enhanced service assurance. The satellite packet transport operates in a spectral, power, and hardware resource constrained environment. It needs specific functions for packet classification, scheduling, and propagation, all operating within the broader context of dynamic resource allocations at the media access layer for transporting individual packets and their aggregates. Additional information, made available to these networking functions across the data, control, and management planes can facilitate key decision making at the individual packet flow level with the use of formal connection admission control (CAC). Our QoS scheme links the data and management planes with the use of IP differentiated services (Diffserv) information in the packet headers. Originally designed for packet traffic aggregates, Diffserv can be leveraged to provide QoS for the individual packet flows at specific data rates and packet drop sensitivity. This QoS architecture has been validated with a pioneering regenerative packet processing satellite system and it is also suitable for other networks that support flow‐level CAC, operating under dynamic network capacity management. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of Ca co‐substitution in (Y1−xCax)Ba2 (Cu0.98Co0.02)3O7−δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.35) ceramic
Authors: Boudjema E. H. , Mahtali M. , Chamekh S. , Taoufik A.
Published: May 2010

YBa2Cu3O7−δ cuprate is a suitable system for the study of impurity effect on superconducting properties because carrier concentration can be widely changed without introducing significant disorder. Thus, the effect of replacing Cu by Co atoms, and Y by Ca atoms is reported to provide useful information about the mechanism of high‐Tc superconductivity. In this paper, we have investigated the effect of Ca and Co simultaneous substitution on the structural and physical properties for a series of (Y1−xCax)Ba2(Cu0.98Co0.02)3O7−δ (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.35) ceramic. Doped Y123 samples are prepared by conventional solid‐state reaction method and characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), SEM, and resistivity measurements. We found that the obtained crystalline structure is mainly orthorhombic. No parasite phase is observed. The orthorhombicity increases with Ca content. The analysis of the superconducting behavior of the samples showed that co‐substitution of Ca does not counteract the adverse influence of Co within the single‐phase range. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface analyses of barium hexaferrite particles for magnetic suspensions
Authors: Ovtar Simona , Lisjak Darja , Drofenik Miha
Published: May 2010

The stabilization of a suspension made from barium hexaferrite (BaHF), hard magnetic particles was studied. The magnetic attraction between the particles of BaHF was reduced by the adsorption of the surfactant dodeclybenzene sulphonic acid (DBSa) onto the particles' surfaces. With the adsorption of the surfactant, the electrostatic and steric repulsions between the particles were enhanced and stable suspensions were prepared from three different powders of BaHF, with particles sizes 5–20, 10–130 and 40–300 nm. The stability of the suspensions was determined with zeta‐potential, saturation‐concentration measurements, TEM and FTIR spectroscopy. The zeta‐potential was increased with the addition of surfactants and the saturation concentration was increased with the decreased particle size. A stable suspension of the largest particles with a very high saturation concentration was prepared only by avoiding the application of an external magnetic field during the preparation of the suspension. The adsorption of the surfactant was observed in the FTIR spectra as a shift of the band assignment to the FeO vibrations. The red shift of the band by 37 or 53 cm−1 appears with the adsorption of the DBSa, and a blue shift by 41 and 67 cm−1 was observed, where two surfactants, DBSa and acetic acid, were used. The band shift is only partly observed in the suspension of the largest particles due to the effect of the particles' sizes. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Method of balanced adjustment in testing co‐primary endpoints
Authors: Kordzakhia George , Siddiqui Ohidul , Huque Mohammad F.
Published: May 2010

In a clinical trial, if there are three or more co‐primary endpoints, the type II error could increase depending on the correlation among the endpoints and their treatment effect sizes. To keep the type II error under control one may have to consider larger sample sizes. However, in cases where treatment effect size of at least one of the endpoints is likely to be small, the required sample size estimates can exceed reasonable bounds. Patel (1991) proposed an approach that adjusts the significance level for testing each primary endpoint based on the idea of restricting the null space. In Chuang‐Stein et al. (2007), the upward adjustment to the significance levels is based on controlling an average type I error rate. In the scenario that statistical significance of each individual hypothesis is not required, we introduce a compromise testing approach in which the significance level for a co‐primary endpoint is adjusted upward only if the treatment shows high significance in one (or more than one) of the remaining co‐primary endpoints. The adjustment depends on the correlation among the endpoints: larger adjustment is needed for cases of smaller correlation. The method is applicable for the scenario where the null space is restricted. Our testing approach controls maximum joint false positive rate over the restricted null space. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Solving longest common subsequence and related problems on graphical processing units
Authors: Deorowicz Sebastian
Published: May 2010

Modern graphical processing units (GPUs) offer much more computational power than modern central processing units. Therefore, it is natural that GPUs are applied not only for their original purposes, but also for general processing (GPGPU). In the field of sequence processing, one of the most important problems is the measuring of sequence similarity. There are many sequence similarity measures, e.g. edit distance, longest common subsequence length, and their derivatives. We examine the possibility of speeding up the algorithms computing some of them. We chose three measures useful in different situations. The experimental results show that the GPU versions of the examined algorithms are faster than their serial counterparts by a factor between 4 and 65. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enhancing SCORM through creating a reusable JAVA class repository
Authors: Hsiao Chun‐Feng , Chu Chih‐Ping
Published: May 2010

Sharable Content Object Reference Model (SCORM) is a set of standards that have been widely adopted when developing eLearning products. However, even with the use of SCORM, the creation of a simulation‐based eLearning course is still a hard task. An instructor can neither easily obtain source code from existing learning objects repositories nor reuse and adapt existing simulations to suit the instructor's needs. We describe an experimental reusable JAVA class repository that embeds itself in a SCORM run‐time environment to support software reuse and the cooperative creation of simulation‐based courses. Finally, we provide advice on how to promote software reuse and assure the quality of simulation‐based eLearning courses. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Toxicity assessment and public policies: An urgent need for research
Authors: Vindimian Eric
Published: May 2010

The new European regulation on chemicals triggers a huge number of new testing. However, more than 2 years after the enforcement of this policy, toxicity assessment and risk assessment are still using single species tests that deliver little information. As it is often the case, the link between science and policy seems to be disrupted. However, policy makers need more than ever information on the fate and effects of chemicals on living systems. Without relevant knowledge for decision making, the application of the precautionary principle is the only reasonable way to manage risks. It is necessary to develop new risk assessment strategies using the last innovations from biology: the omics tools, ecology, ecosystem modeling, chemistry, and computing. This article highlights some of the recent trends in ecotoxicology and calls for a new research strategy. This strategy implies research to be funded by its users. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2010.
Genome‐wide analysis of caesium and strontium accumulation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Heuck Sabine , Gerstmann Udo C. , Michalke Bernhard , Kanter Ulrike
Published: May 2010

137Cs and 90Sr contribute to significant and long‐lasting contamination of the environment with radionuclides. Due to their relatively high biological availability, they are transferred rapidly into biotic systems and may enter the food chain. In this study, we analysed 4862 haploid yeast knockout strains of Saccharomyces cerevisiae to identify genes involved in caesium (Cs+) and/or strontium (Sr2+) accumulation. According to this analysis, 212 mutant strains were associated with reproducible altered Cs+ and/or Sr2+ accumulation. These mutants were deficient for a wide range of cellular processes. Among those, the vacuolar function and biogenesis turned out to be crucial for both Cs+ and Sr2+ accumulation. Disruption of the vacuole diminished Cs+ accumulation, whereas Sr2+ enrichment was enhanced. Further analysis with a subset of the identified candidates were undertaken comparing the accumulation of Cs+ and Sr2+ with their essential counterparts potassium (K+) and calcium (Ca2+). Sr2+ and Ca2+ accumulation was highly correlated in yeast excluding the possibility of a differential regulation or uptake mechanisms. In direct contrast, the respective results suggest that Cs+ uptake is at least partially dependent on mechanisms distinct from K+ uptake. Single candidates (e.g. KHA1) are presented which might be specifically responsible for Cs+ homeostasis. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A systematic study of the cell wall composition of Kluyveromyces lactis
Authors: Backhaus Katja , Heilmann Clemens J. , Sorgo Alice G. , Purschke Günter , de Koster Chris G. , Klis Frans M. , Heinisch Jürgen J.
Published: May 2010

In many ascomycetous yeasts, the cell wall is composed of two main types of macromolecules: (a) polysaccharides, with a high content of β‐1,6‐ and β‐1,3‐linked glucan chains and minor amounts of chitin; and (b) cell wall proteins of different types. Synthesis and maintenance of these macromolecules respond to environmental changes, which are sensed by the cell wall integrity (CWI) signal transduction pathway. We here present a first systematic analysis of the cell wall composition of the milk yeast, Kluyveromyces lactis. Electron microscopic analyses revealed that exponentially growing cells of K. lactis supplied with glucose as a carbon source have a wall thickness of 64 nm, as compared to 105 nm when growing on 3% ethanol. Despite their increased wall thickness, ethanol‐grown cells were more sensitive to the presence of zymolyase in the growth medium. Mass spectrometric analysis identified 22 covalently linked cell wall proteins, including 19 GPI‐modified proteins and two Pir wall proteins. Importantly, the composition of the cell wall glycoproteome depended on carbon source and growth phase. Our results clearly illustrate the dynamic nature of the cell wall of K. lactis and provide a firm base for studying its regulation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Crystal Structure of Bi2W6Br18 and a New Synthesis of W6Br12
Authors: Ströbele Markus , Meyer H.‐Jürgen
Published: May 2010

The new tungsten bromide cluster compound Bi2W6Br18 was synthesized by reacting tungsten hexabromide with bismuth metal in a silica tube at 350 °C. The structure of Bi2W6Br18 was refined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction in the space group P21/c with unit cell dimensions of a = 981.8(2) pm, b = 1305.9(2) pm, c = 1256.8(2) pm and β = 101.81(2)°. The crystal structure is constructed from [(W6Br8i)Br6a]2–anions being interconnected by outer bromine ligands with (BiBr2) units that behave as cations in (BiBr2)2[(W6Br8)Br6]. Short Bi–Br bonding distances at 261.3(1) pm and 265.9(2) pm in (BiBr2) units suggest the presence of covalent interactions. Thermal decomposition of the compound leads to W6Br12.
Leibniz et Toland: philosophie pour princesses?
Authors: Fichant Michel
Published: May 2010

L’article apporte le bilan de ce que l’on sait aujourd’hui, en fonction des sources publiées, des relations philosophiques entre John Toland et Leibniz. Il esquisse une revue thématique des arguments, en se plaçant au point de vue de Leibniz.
Laparoscopic‐assisted distal pancreatectomy and nephrectomy from a live donor
Authors: Maruyama Michihiro , Kenmochi Takashi , Akutsu Naotake , Saigo Kenichi , Iwashita Chikara , Otsuki Kazunori , Ito Taihei , Asano Takehide
Published: May 2010

Background

The simultaneous transplantation of pancreas and kidney from live donors is performed in select countries. One of the reasons for this reduced applicability is the invasiveness of the donor operation. We propose the method of laparoscopic‐assisted operation to be performed on live donors with minimal invasion.

Method

The donor was placed in the right lateral decubitus position. A 7‐cm upper midline incision was made, and a handport was installed in addition to two or three 12‐mm ports. After the removal of the left kidney graft, the spleen and the distal part of the pancreas were completely mobilized. The splenic vein and artery were identified and mobilized. The donor was then rotated to a supine position. Dissection of the pancreatic parenchyma using ultrasound shears and ligation of the splenic vessels were performed through midline incision under direct vision. The distal part of the pancreas and the spleen were extracted.

Results

Since December 2007, 3 donors have undergone this operation. In all 3 cases, the postoperative course was uneventful, and both the renal and pancreatic grafts functioned well.

Conclusion

This technique is minimally invasive and safe, and may become the standard method of live donor operation for simultaneous pancreas–kidney transplantation.
Hippocampus specific iron deficiency alters competition and cooperation between developing memory systems
Authors: Carlson Erik S. , Fretham Stephanie J. B. , Unger Erica , O’Connor Michael , Petryk Anna , Schallert Timothy , Rao Raghavendra , Tkac Ivan , Georgieff Michael K.
Published: May 2010

Iron deficiency (ID) is the most common gestational micronutrient deficiency in the world, targets the fetal hippocampus and striatum and results in long-term behavioral abnormalities. These structures primarily mediate spatial and procedural memory, respectively, in the rodent but have interconnections that result in competition or cooperation during cognitive tasks. We determined whether ID-induced impairment of one alters the function of the other by genetically inducing a 40% reduction of hippocampus iron content in late fetal life in mice and measuring dorsal striatal gene expression and metabolism and the behavioral balance between the two memory systems in adulthood.Slc11a2hipp/hippmice had similar striatum iron content, but 18% lower glucose and 44% lower lactate levels, a 30% higher phosphocreatine:creatine ratio, and reduced iron transporter gene expression compared to wild type (WT) littermates, implying reduced striatal metabolic function.Slc11a2hipp/hippmice had longer mean escape times on a cued task paradigm implying impaired procedural memory. Nevertheless, when hippocampal and striatal memory systems were placed in competition using a Morris Water Maze task that alternates spatial navigation and visual cued responses during training, and forces a choice between hippocampal and striatal strategies during probe trials,Slc11a2hipp/hippmice used the hippocampus-dependent response less often (25%) and the visual cued response more often (75%) compared to WT littermates that used both strategies approximately equally. Hippocampal ID not only reduces spatial recognition memory performance but also affects systems that support procedural memory, suggesting an altered balance between memory systems.
Stability of Cholesterol, 7‐Ketocholesterol and β‐Sitosterol during Saponification: Ramifications for Artifact Monitoring of Sterol Oxide Products
Authors: Busch T. P. , King A. J.
Published: May 2010

Cholesterol has been used to monitor artifact generation. Stability differences among cholesterol oxide products (COPs) and cholesterol in thermal and alkaline conditions are theorized. Thus, use of cholesterol may be unsuitable for detection of artifacts generated from COPs. Stability of cholesterol was compared to that of 7‐ketocholesterol (7‐keto) and β‐sitosterol (βS) under various thermal and alkaline saponification conditions: 1 M methanolic KOH for 18 h at 24 °C (1 M18hr24°C, Control), 18 h at 37 °C (1M18hr37°C), 3 h at 45 °C (1M3hr45°C), and 3.6 M methanolic KOH for 3 h at 24 °C (3.6M3hr24°C). Trends indicated that cholesterol in solution was more stable than 7‐keto under all conditions. Compared to βS, cholesterol was more stable under all conditions except for 1M18hr37°C for which stabilities were similar. Compounds were more labile in heat than alkalinity. Poor recoveries of 7‐keto during cold saponification with high alkalinity were attributed to alkaline instability. 7‐Keto, less stable than cholesterol, should be used to monitor artifact generation during screening of various methods that include thermal and alkaline conditions. In a preliminary analysis of turkey meat, more 3,5‐7‐one was generated from spiking with cholesterol than with 7‐keto.
NeuN/Fox‐3 is an intrinsic component of the neuronal nuclear matrix
Authors: Dent Myrna A.R. , Segura-Anaya Edith , Alva-Medina Janeth , Aranda-Anzaldo Armando
Published: May 2010

MINT‐7890176: Fox‐3 (uniprotkb:B7ZC13) and Splicing factor SC35 (uniprotkb:Q6PDU1) colocalize (MI:0403) by fluorescence microscopy (MI:0416)
Transforming growth factor‐β inhibits nephronectin‐induced osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Fang Ling , Kahai Shireen , Yang Weining , He Chengyan , Seth Arun , Peng Chun , Yang Burton B.
Published: May 2010

We used cDNA microarray to identify transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) responsive target genes during osteoblast development and found that nephronectin (Npnt) is one such gene that is significantly down‐regulated. Here we report the role of TGF‐β in regulating Npnt‐mediated osteoblast differentiation. We found that the effect of TGF‐β on Npnt expression is associated with a change in cell morphology in a dose‐dependent manner. Npnt‐induced osteoblast differentiation was also inhibited by TGF‐β, which changed cell morphology from cuboidal to fibroblastic, an indication that osteoblast differentiation was disrupted. Furthermore, TGF‐β inhibited differentiation of osteoblasts transfected with various truncated Npnt constructs, suggesting that TGF‐β can exert a down‐stream effect on Npnt function. Our results suggest that TGF‐β can inhibit osteoblast differentiation through various mechanisms.
Atomic force microscopy imaging of the structure of the motor protein prestin reconstituted into an artificial lipid bilayer
Authors: Kumano Shun , Murakoshi Michio , Iida Koji , Hamana Hiroshi , Wada Hiroshi
Published: May 2010

Prestin is the motor protein of cochlear outer hair cells and is essential for mammalian hearing. The present study aimed to clarify the structure of prestin by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Prestin was purified from Chinese hamster ovary cells which had been modified to stably express prestin, and then reconstituted into an artificial lipid bilayer. Immunofluorescence staining with anti‐prestin antibody showed that the cytoplasmic side of prestin was possibly face up in the reconstituted lipid bilayer. AFM observation indicated that the cytoplasmic surface of prestin was ring‐like with a diameter of about 11 nm.
Linking HIV and sexual and reproductive health services to enhance program outcomes
Authors: Lusti‐Narasimhan Manjula , Say Lale , Mbizvo Michael T.
Published: May 2010

Sexual and reproductive health services provide an opportunity to achieve universal access to HIV prevention and care and should be part of a national strategic response. There is recognition that HIV is a sexually transmitted infection or associated with pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. Both address the same target population and the vulnerability to risk and underlying causes are essentially the same. Providing comprehensive services that prevent HIV transmission, including to infants, those that meet the fertility intentions of people living with HIV, and management and prevention of sexually transmitted infections are some of the key elements of these linkages. Approaches that have shown success in HIV prevention and care include those in which a combination of strategies has been deployed, both in prevention and treatment regimens, and the combination of services delivery should yield equally positive results. Some strategies and recommendations detailed at the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) World Congress in 2009 are discussed that could increase the effective response to the global response to HIV.
The FIGO initiative for the prevention of unsafe abortion
Authors: Shaw Dorothy
Published: May 2010

Unsafe abortion is a recognized public health problem that contributes significantly to maternal mortality. At least 13% of maternal mortality is caused by unsafe abortion, mostly in poor and marginalized women. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) launched an initiative in 2007 to prevent unsafe abortion and its consequences, building on its work on other major causes of maternal mortality. A Working Group was identified with collaborators from many international organizations and terms of reference provided direction from the FIGO Executive Board as to possible evidence‐based interventions. A total of 54 member associations of FIGO, representing almost half its member societies, requested participation in the initiative, with 43 subsequently producing action plans that are country specific and involve the national government and multiple collaborators. Obstetrician/gynecologists have demonstrated the importance of the initiative by an unprecedented level of engagement in efforts to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity in country and by sharing experiences regionally.
International organizations and NGOs: An example of international collaboration to improve women's health by preventing unsafe abortion
Authors: Zaidi Shahida , Hassan Ezzeldin Osman , Hodorogea Stelian , Leke Robert J.I. , Távara Luis , Padilla de Gil Marina
Published: May 2010

International collaboration with organizations and agencies is a basic requirement for the success of the FIGO Initiative for the Prevention of Unsafe Abortion and its Consequences. Many activities being carried out by the organizations form a part of the plans of action of all countries participating in the Initiative. It was, therefore, not difficult to obtain their collaboration in implementing the plans of action. The many ways in which they have collaborated and continue to do so are described in this article. This collaboration has saved time, avoided duplication of effort, and has also satisfied the Accra Agenda of Action by reducing fragmentation of funding. It has already contributed toward preventing unsafe abortion and reducing abortion‐related maternal deaths and morbidities, and is expected to contribute even more significantly in the coming months and years.