bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-cell sequencing provides clues about the host interactions of segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB)
Authors: Pamp Sünje J. , Harrington Eoghan D. , Quake Stephen R. , Relman David A. , Blainey Paul C.
Published: March 2012

Segmented filamentous bacteria (SFB) are host-specific intestinal symbionts that comprise a distinct clade within theClostridiaceae, designatedCandidatus Arthromitus. SFB display a unique life cycle within the host, involving differentiation into multiple cell types. The latter include filaments that attach intimately to intestinal epithelial cells, and from which “holdfasts” and spores develop. SFB induce a multifaceted immune response, leading to host protection from intestinal pathogens. Cultivation resistance has hindered characterization of these enigmatic bacteria. In the present study, we isolated five SFB filaments from a mouse using a microfluidic device equipped with laser tweezers, generated genome sequences from each, and compared these sequences with each other, as well as to recently published SFB genome sequences. Based on the resulting analyses, SFB appear to be dependent on the host for a variety of essential nutrients. SFB have a relatively high abundance of predicted proteins devoted to cell cycle control and to envelope biogenesis, and have a group of SFB-specific autolysins and a dynamin-like protein. Among the five filament genomes, an average of 8.6% of predicted proteins were novel, including a family of secreted SFB-specific proteins. Four ADP-ribosyltransferase (ADPRT) sequence types, and a myosin-cross-reactive antigen (MCRA) protein were discovered; we hypothesize that they are involved in modulation of host responses. The presence of polymorphisms among mouse SFB genomes suggests the evolution of distinct SFB lineages. Overall, our results reveal several aspects of SFB adaptation to the mammalian intestinal tract.
The use of anti‐D to improve post‐transfusion platelet response: a randomized trial
Authors: Heddle Nancy M. , Klama Luba , Kelton John G. , Meyer Ralph , Walker Irwin , Dickson Lenore , Chambers Shelley , Levine Mark N.
Published: March 2012

Summary. Patients undergoing induction chemotherapy for acute leukaemia often become refractory to platelet transfusions. Increased clearance of transfused platelets due to alloimmune destruction has been identified as one of the primary mechanisms contributing to this refractory state. We performed a double‐blind randomized trial to determine whether the administration of anti‐D to Rh‐positive individuals could prevent the refractory state and improve post‐transfusion platelet response. Rh‐positive patients with acute leukaemia undergoing induction chemotherapy and requiring platelet transfusions were allocated to weekly intravenous anti‐D (20 μg/kg) or placebo. Platelets and red cell concentrates were administered according to standardized transfusion guidelines. Outcome measures included platelet transfusion utilization, red cell utilization, platelet recovery 18–24 h post‐infusion, and the percentage of patients refractory to platelet transfusion. There were 43 patients studied: 21 received anti‐D and 22 saline placebo. The mean number of platelet concentrates required per day of observation was 0.59 (SD 0.22) in the anti‐D group and 0.61 (SD 0.22) in the placebo group, P= 0.86. No difference was detected between groups in terms of platelet recovery post‐infusion, refractoriness to platelet transfusion or frequency of infection (P= 0.97). Red cell concentrate utilization was significantly increased in the anti‐D group compared to the placebo group, 0.58 units per day versus 0.37 units per day respectively, P= 0.005. We conclude that the use of anti‐D did not improve post‐transfusion platelet response in Rh positive patients with acute leukaemia, but did result in an increased need for red cell transfusion.
Family studies in an extremely large mild haemophilia A pedigree which includes 10% of Greek haemophiliacs
Authors: Mandalaki T. , Koumbarelis E. , Gialeraki A. , Apostolou A.
Published: March 2012

Summary. We illustrate the usefulness of direct mutation detection for genetic counselling by showing its application to an extremely large mild haemophilia A pedigree (91 haemophiliacs) originating from the village of Aiani in Macedonia, northern Greece. The causative mutation has already been shown to be an A to T transversion in codon 280 of the FVIII gene which replaces Asn 280 (AAC) by He (ATC) and which creates a new Bam HI restriction site in exon 7. The latter permitted direct, rapid and reliable detection of the mutation in relevant family members. All major branches of the family were shown to share the mutation, and carrier status was diagnosed or excluded for 23 possible carriers. Other interesting characteristics of the Aiani haemophilic population are a slightly higher longevity and fecundity than that observed in the general population and a wide range of FVIILC levels (5–25%) associated with the mutation.
Reduced T‐bet in addition to enhanced STAT6 and GATA3 expressing T cells contribute to human allergen‐induced late responses
Authors: Eifan A. O. , Furukido K. , Dumitru A. , Jacobson M. R. , Schmidt‐Weber C. , Banfield G. , Durham S. R. , Nouri‐Aria K. T.
Published: March 2012

Background

T‐bet and GATA‐3 are transcriptional factors involved in Th1 and Th2 cell differentiation, although their concomitant roles at protein levels in target organs during human allergic disease have not been assessed.

Objectives

We investigated the expression of T‐bet and GATA‐3 in nasal and cutaneous models of Th2 (grass‐pollen allergen) and a cutaneous model of Th1 (PPD) responses in man.

Methods

Nasal biopsies were obtained at 8 h and skin biopsies at 8 and 48 h after allergen and PPD challenges, respectively, from 10 allergic rhinitics and 6 non‐atopic controls. T cells were assessed using immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results

There were increases in CD3+STAT6+cells (P = 0.01 for nose and skin) and CD3+GATA3+cells (P = 0.03 for skin) in response to allergen compared with diluent in allergics. When compared with non‐atopics after allergen challenge the difference between the two groups was also significant for CD3+STAT6+ (P = 0.001 and 0.03) and for CD3+GATA3+cells (P = 0.04 and 0.001) for nose and skin respectively. Following PPD challenge CD3+STAT4+cells and CD3+T‐bet+cells increased in both groups compared with diluent (P = 0.02 and 0.03 for both TFs), whereas only CD3+T‐bet+ cells were significantly greater in non‐atopics compared with allergics (P = 0.04). The ratio of GATA3+:T‐bet+ T cells in allergen‐induced responses was significantly greater in the allergics (P = 0.008 and 0.01 nose and skin respectively), whereas the ratio of T‐bet:GATA3+T cells was significantly higher in the non‐atopics during PPD‐induced responses (P = 0.003).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Dysregulation of Th1 transcription may contribute to heightened expression of STAT6 and GATA3 leading to exaggerated Th2‐driven manifestations of allergic disease.
Targeted massively parallel sequencing provides comprehensive genetic diagnosis for patients with disorders of sex development
Authors: Arboleda VA , Lee H , Sánchez FJ , Délot EC , Sandberg DE , Grody WW , Nelson SF , Vilain E
Published: March 2012

Arboleda VA, Lee H, Sánchez FJ, Délot EC, Sandberg DE, Grody WW, Nelson SF, Vilain E. Targeted massively parallel sequencing provides comprehensive genetic diagnosis for patients with disorders of sex development.

Disorders of sex development (DSD) are rare disorders in which there is discordance between chromosomal, gonadal, and phenotypic sex. Only a minority of patients clinically diagnosed with DSD obtains a molecular diagnosis, leaving a large gap in our understanding of the prevalence, management, and outcomes in affected patients. We created a novel DSD‐genetic diagnostic tool, in which sex development genes are captured using RNA probes and undergo massively parallel sequencing. In the pilot group of 14 patients, we determined sex chromosome dosage, copy number variation, and gene mutations. In the patients with a known genetic diagnosis (obtained either on a clinical or research basis), this test identified the molecular cause in 100% (7/7) of patients. In patients in whom no molecular diagnosis had been made, this tool identified a genetic diagnosis in two of seven patients. Targeted sequencing of genes representing a specific spectrum of disorders can result in a higher rate of genetic diagnoses than current diagnostic approaches. Our DSD diagnostic tool provides for first time, in a single blood test, a comprehensive genetic diagnosis in patients presenting with a wide range of urogenital anomalies.
Fitness trade‐offs and the maintenance of alternative male morphs in the bulb mite (Rhizoglyphus robini)
Authors: SMALLEGANGE I. M. , THORNE N. , CHARALAMBOUS M.
Published: March 2012

Alternative reproductive phenotypes (ARPs) occur across a wide range of taxa. Most ARPs are conditionally expressed in response to a cue, for example body size, that reliably correlates with the status of the environment: individuals below the (body size) threshold then develop into one morph, and individuals above the threshold develop into the alternative morph. The environmental threshold model provides a theoretical framework to understand the evolution and maintenance of such ARPs, yet no study has examined the underlying fitness functions that are necessary to realize this. Here, we empirically examined fitness functions for the two male morphs of the bulb mite (Rhizoglyphus robini). Fitness functions were derived in relation to male size for solitary males and in relation to female size under competition. In both cases, the fitness functions of the two morphs intersected, and the resulting fitness trade‐offs may play a role in the maintenance of this male dimorphism. We furthermore found that competition was strongest between males of the same morph, suggesting that fitness trade‐off in relation to male size may persist under competition. Our results are a first step towards unravelling fitness functions of ARPs that are environmentally cued threshold traits, which is essential for understanding their maintenance and in explaining the response to selection against alternative morphs.
Long‐term multiple risk factor interventions in Japanese elderly diabetic patients: The Japanese Elderly Diabetes Intervention Trial – study design, baseline characteristics and effects of intervention
Authors: Araki Atsushi , Iimuro Satoshi , Sakurai Takashi , Umegaki Hiroyuki , Iijima Katsuya , Nakano Hiroshi , Oba Kenzo , Yokono Koichi , Sone Hirohito , Yamada Nobuhiro , Ako Junya , Kozaki Koichi , Miura Hisayuki , Kashiwagi Atsunori , Kikkawa Ryuichi , Yoshimura Yukio , Nakano Tadasumi , Ohashi Yasuo , Ito Hideki ,   the Japanese Elderly Diabetes Intervention Trial Study Group
Published: March 2012

Aim:  To evaluate long‐term, multiple risk factor intervention on physical, psychological and mental prognosis, and development of complications and cardiovascular disease in elderly type 2 diabetes patients.

Methods:  Our randomized, controlled, multicenter, prospective intervention trial included 1173 elderly type 2 diabetes patients who were enrolled from 39 Japanese institutions and randomized to an intensive or conservative treatment group. Glycemic control, dyslipidemia, hypertension, obesity, diabetic complications and atherosclerotic disease were measured annually. Instrumental activity of daily living, cognitive impairment, depressive symptoms and diabetes burden were assessed at baseline and 3 years.

Results:  There was no significant difference in clinical or cognitive parameters at baseline between the two groups. The prevalence of low activities of daily living, depressive symptoms and cognitive impairment was 13%, 28% and 4%, respectively, and was similar in the two groups. A small, but significant difference in HbA1c between the two groups was observed at 1 year after the start of intervention (7.9% vs 8.1%, P < 0.05), although this significant difference was not observed after the second year. With the exception of coronary revascularization, there was no significant difference in fatal or non‐fatal events between the two groups. Composite events were also similar in the two groups.

Conclusions:  This study showed no significant differences in fatal or non‐fatal events between intensive and conventional treatment. The present study might clarify whether treatment of risk factors influences function and quality of life in elderly diabetic patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12 (Suppl. 1): 7–17.
Insulin secretion based on the late oral glucose tolerance test period and incident diabetes: the San Antonio Heart Study
Authors: Lorenzo C. , Williams K. , Haffner S. M.
Published: March 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, e151–e158 (2012)

Aims  The Insulinogenic Index from 0 to 30 min (ΔI 0‐30/ΔG0‐30), a measure of insulin secretion derived from the early period of the oral glucose tolerance test, predicts future diabetes. However, there are few data on secretory measures from the late oral glucose tolerance test period. We therefore investigated the association of the ratio of the area under the insulin curve to the area under the glucose curve from 60 to 120 min (I/GAUC 60‐120) with incident diabetes.

Methods  Participants were 1540 Mexican Americans and non‐Hispanic whites in the San Antonio Heart Study who were free of diabetes at baseline. We analysed indices of sensitivity (Matsuda index) and secretion from the early (ΔI0‐30/ΔG0‐30) and late oral glucose tolerance test periods (I/GAUC 60‐120).

Results  A total of 179 participants developed diabetes after 7.5 years. I/GAUC60‐120 was an independent predictor of diabetes [odds ratio × 1 SD unit increase, 0.37 (0.26–0.54)] in a model that also included age, sex, ethnicity, body mass index, family history of diabetes, Matsuda index and (ΔI 0‐30/ΔG0‐30) as covariates. I/GAUC 60–120 increased the C statistic (a test of discrimination) of the model (0.882 vs. 0.875, P = 0.044). I/GAUC 60–120 correctly reclassified one‐fifth of individuals with moderate and strong risks of future diabetes. The net reclassification improvement was 0.13 (P < 0.001) and the integrated discrimination improvement was 0.033 (P < 0.001).

Conclusions  An insulin secretory measure derived from the late oral glucose tolerance test period is useful for classifying individuals at risk of future diabetes independently of other risk factors, including insulin sensitivity and a secretory measure from the early oral glucose tolerance test period.
Thematic review of family therapy journals 2011
Authors: Carr Alan
Published: March 2012

In this article the contents of the principal English‐language family therapy journals published in 2011 are reviewed under these headings: child‐focused problems, adult‐focused problems, couples therapy, medical family therapy, military family therapy, theory, research, training, the new Journal of Couple and Family Psychology and Human Systems twenty‐first anniversary.
Legal Reform and Good Governance: Assessing Rights and Economic Development in Chile
Authors: TIEDE LYDIA BRASHEAR
Published: March 2012

Legal reforms throughout Latin America have increased the transparency of the criminal justice process and improved defendants' rights. Many scholars conjecture that such reforms also improve “good governance” and by extension economic development. Paradoxically, despite such assertions, there are few quantitative studies that examine the precise effect of such legal reforms. Using original data sets, the impact of Chile's criminal law reforms on the rights of criminals and economic development is tested. The results show that Chile's criminal law reform has enhanced defendants' rights by reducing the percent of individuals incarcerated. The reform has had a positive effect on regional economic activity, but little effect on foreign direct investment at the regional level.
Peripheral neuropathy associated with mitochondrial disease in children
Authors: MENEZES MANOJ P , OUVRIER ROBERT A
Published: March 2012

Mitochondrial diseases in children are often associated with a peripheral neuropathy but the presence of the neuropathy is under‐recognized because of the overwhelming involvement of the central nervous system (CNS). These mitochondrial neuropathies are heterogeneous in their clinical, neurophysiological, and histopathological characteristics. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review of childhood mitochondrial neuropathy. Early recognition of neuropathy may help with the identification of the mitochondrial syndrome. While it is not definite that the characteristics of the neuropathy would help in directing genetic testing without the requirement for invasive skin, muscle or liver biopsies, there appears to be some evidence for this hypothesis in Leigh syndrome, in which nuclear SURF1 mutations cause a demyelinating neuropathy and mitochondrial DNA MTATP6 mutations cause an axonal neuropathy. POLG1 mutations, especially when associated with late‐onset phenotypes, appear to cause a predominantly sensory neuropathy with prominent ataxia. The identification of the peripheral neuropathy also helps to target genetic testing in the mitochondrial optic neuropathies. Although often subclinical, the peripheral neuropathy may occasionally be symptomatic and cause significant disability. Where it is symptomatic, recognition of the neuropathy will help the early institution of rehabilitative therapy. We therefore suggest that nerve conduction studies should be a part of the early evaluation of children with suspected mitochondrial disease.
Effect of age and COX‐2‐derived prostanoids on the progression of adult vascular dysfunction in the offspring of diabetic rats
Authors: Ramos‐Alves FE , de Queiroz DB , Santos‐Rocha J , Duarte GP , Xavier FE
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The present study was designed to determine how diabetes in pregnancy affects vascular function in their offspring, the influence of age and whether COX activation is involved in this effect.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Relaxation responses to ACh were analysed in mesenteric resistance arteries from the offspring of control rats (O‐CR) and those of diabetic rats (O‐DR) at 3, 6 and 12 months of age. TxB2, PGE2 and PGF2α release were determined by enzyme immunoassay. COX‐1 and COX‐2 expression were measured by Western blot analysis.

KEY RESULTS O‐DR developed hypertension from 6 months of age compared with O‐CR. In O‐DR, relaxation responses to ACh were impaired in all ages studied and were restored by COX‐2 inhibition. TP receptor blockade (SQ29548) restored ACh relaxation in arteries from 3‐month‐old O‐DR while TP and EP receptor blockade (SQ29548 + AH6809) was required to restore it in 6‐month‐old O‐DR. In 12‐month‐old O‐DR, ACh relaxation was restored when TP, EP and FP receptors were blocked (SQ29548 + AH6809 + AL8810). ACh‐stimulated TxB2 was higher in all O‐DR. ACh‐stimulated PGE2 release was increased in arteries from 6‐ and 12‐month‐old O‐DR, whereas PGF2α was increased only in 12‐month‐old O‐DR. COX‐2, but not COX‐1, expression was higher in O‐DR than O‐CR.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The results indicate an age‐dependent up‐regulation of COX‐2 coupled to an enhanced formation of vasoconstrictor prostanoids in resistance arteries from O‐DR. This effect plays a key role in the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction, which in turn could contribute to the progression of vascular dysfunction in these rats.
Continuing Medical Education Activity in Echocardiography
Authors: Fan Pohoey , Bhagirath Kapil M. , Lester Steven J. , Humphries Julie , Hentz Joseph G. , Hurst R. Todd
Published: March 2012

Article Title: Carotid Intima‐Media Thickness Measurements Are Not Affected by the Ultrasound Frequency (Echocardiography 2012;29:353)
Elastin overexpression by cell‐based gene therapy preserves matrix and prevents cardiac dilation
Authors: Li Shu‐Hong , Sun Zhuo , Guo Lily , Han Mihan , Wood Michael F. G. , Ghosh Nirmalya , Alex Vitkin I. , Weisel Richard D. , Li Ren‐Ke
Published: March 2012

After a myocardial infarction, thinning and expansion of the fibrotic scar contribute to progressive heart failure. The loss of elastin is a major contributor to adverse extracellular matrix remodelling of the infarcted heart, and restoration of the elastic properties of the infarct region can prevent ventricular dysfunction. We implanted cells genetically modified to overexpress elastin to re‐establish the elastic properties of the infarcted myocardium and prevent cardiac failure. A full‐length human elastin cDNA was cloned, subcloned into an adenoviral vector and then transduced into rat bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs). In vitro studies showed that BMSCs expressed the elastin protein, which was deposited into the extracellular matrix. Transduced BMSCs were injected into the infarcted myocardium of adult rats. Control groups received either BMSCs transduced with the green fluorescent protein gene or medium alone. Elastin deposition in the infarcted myocardium was associated with preservation of myocardial tissue structural integrity (by birefringence of polarized light; P < 0.05 versus controls). As a result, infarct scar thickness and diastolic compliance were maintained and infarct expansion was prevented (P < 0.05 versus controls). Over a 9‐week period, rats implanted with BMSCs demonstrated better cardiac function than medium controls; however, rats receiving BMSCs overexpressing elastin showed the greatest functional improvement (P < 0.01). Overexpression of elastin in the infarcted heart preserved the elastic structure of the extracellular matrix, which, in turn, preserved diastolic function, prevented ventricular dilation and preserved cardiac function. This cell‐based gene therapy provides a new approach to cardiac regeneration.
Shear induced collateral artery growth modulated by endoglin but not by ALK1
Authors: Seghers Leonard , de Vries Margreet R. , Pardali Evangelia , Hoefer Imo E. , Hierck Beerend P. , Dijke Peter ten , Goumans Marie Jose , Quax Paul H.A.
Published: March 2012

Transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) stimulates both ischaemia induced angiogenesis and shear stress induced arteriogenesis by signalling through different receptors. How these receptors are involved in both these processes of blood flow recovery is not entirely clear. In this study the role of TGF‐β receptors 1 and endoglin is assessed in neovascularization in mice. Unilateral femoral artery ligation was performed in mice heterozygous for either endoglin or ALK1 and in littermate controls. Compared with littermate controls, blood flow recovery, monitored by laser Doppler perfusion imaging, was significantly hampered by maximal 40% in endoglin heterozygous mice and by maximal 49% in ALK1 heterozygous mice. Collateral artery size was significantly reduced in endoglin heterozygous mice compared with controls but not in ALK1 heterozygous mice. Capillary density in ischaemic calf muscles was unaffected, but capillaries from endoglin and ALK1 heterozygous mice were significantly larger when compared with controls. To provide mechanistic evidence for the differential role of endoglin and ALK1 in shear induced or ischaemia induced neovascularization, murine endothelial cells were exposed to shear stress in vitro. This induced increased levels of endoglin mRNA but not ALK1. In this study it is demonstrated that both endoglin and ALK1 facilitate blood flow recovery. Importantly, endoglin contributes to both shear induced collateral artery growth and to ischaemia induced angiogenesis, whereas ALK1 is only involved in ischaemia induced angiogenesis.
The effect of diabetes on bone formation following application of the GBR principle with the use of titanium domes
Authors: Lee Sang‐Bok , Retzepi Maria , Petrie Aviva , Hakimi Ahmad‐Reza , Schwarz Frank , Donos Nikolaos
Published: March 2012

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of experimental diabetes and metabolic control on de novo bone formation following the GBR principle under titanium dome with a hydrophobic or hydrophilic surface.

Material and methods

Three groups of equal number of randomly allocated Wistar strain rats were created: (a) uncontrolled, streptozotocin‐induced diabetes (D); (b) insulin‐controlled diabetes (CD); (c) healthy (H). Each group was then further divided into two groups according to either 7 or 42 days of healing period, which received either a hydrophobic (SLA: A) or a hydrophilic (SLActive: B) dome. The undecalcified sections were evaluated by qualitative and quantitative histological analysis and the differences between means for the groups (D, CD, and H) and the type of domes (SLA and SLActive) at each of two observational periods (i.e. 7 and 42 days) were assessed by performing a two‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

In all experimental groups, significant de novo bone formation under the domes was observed at 42 days of healing. There was a tendency of increased new total bone (TB) formation in H and CD groups compared to D group at 42 days of healing. Also, the SLActive titanium surface showed a trend of promoting superior TB formation at the early observational period among the experimental groups, however these differences did not reach statistical significance. In regards to the bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC%) under the both dome treatments (SLA and SLActive), there was no statistically significant difference among the H, CD, and D groups at both 7 and 42 days.

Conclusion

Despite of the presence of uncontrolled diabetes, substantial de novo bone formation can be achieved in titanium domes with a hydrophobic and a hydrophilic surface. The use of SLActive titanium surface may present a tendency to promote new bone formation in healthy and diabetic conditions at 7 days of healing, however the obtained data do not allow any robust conclusions.
Evidence for tissue iron overload in long‐term hemodialysis patients and the impact of withdrawing parenteral iron
Authors: Ghoti Hussam , Rachmilewitz Eliezer A. , Simon‐Lopez Ramon , Gaber Raed , Katzir Zeev , Konen Eli , Kushnir Tamar , Girelli Domenico , Campostrini Natascia , Fibach Eitan , Goitein Orly
Published: March 2012

Background/aims

Erythropoiesis in long‐term hemodialyzed (LTH) patients is supported by erythropoietin (rHuEpo) and intravenous (IV) iron. This treatment may end up in iron overload (IO) in major organs. We studied such patients for the parameters of IO in the serum and in major organs.

Methods

Patients were treated with rHuEpo (6–8 x 103 units × 1–3/wk) and IV 100 mg ferric saccharate.

Results

Of 115 patients, 21 had serum ferritin (SF) > 1000 ng/mL. This group was further analyzed. Their SF and transferrin saturation (TSAT) were 2688 ± 1489 ng/mL and 54.2 ± 32.7%, respectively (vs. 125–360 ng/mL and 20–50% in normal controls). Serum hepcidin was 60.1 ± 29.5 nm (vs. 10.61 ± 6.44 nm in controls) (P < 0.001). Nineteen patients had increased malonyldialdehyde, a product of lipid peroxidation, indicating oxidative stress. T2* MRI disclosed in 19 of 21 patients moderate to severe IO in the liver and spleen, in three of eight patients in the pancreas, but in no patient in the heart. After stopping IV iron for a mean of 12 months, while continuing rHuEpo, the mean SF decreased in 11 patients to 1682 ng/mL and the mean TSAT decreased to 28%, whereas hemoglobin did not change indicating that tissue iron was utilized.

Conclusion

High SF correlates with IO in the liver and spleen, but not in the heart.
Advantages of granivory in seasonal environments: feeding ecology of an arboreal seed predator in Amazonian forests
Authors: Palminteri Suzanne , Powell George V. , Peres Carlos A.
Published: March 2012

Specialized seed predators are uncommon in arboreal vertebrate assemblages, and the hypothesis that consuming seeds of immature fruits – which may be available for relatively long periods compared to mature fruit – could reduce seasonal food scarcity experienced by generalist frugivores remains largely untested. To test this hypothesis, we examined the diet and feeding ecology of bald‐faced saki monkeys Pithecia irrorata in a largely intact forest mosaic of southeastern Peru based on systematic monitoring of five habituated groups over a three‐year period and compared the relative availability of ripe and unripe fruits in their diet. Plant phenology data from individual tree crowns showed that, compared to ripe fruits, immature fruits were available in more tree species, in greater quantities, and for longer periods. Despite pronounced community‐wide seasonal changes in fruit production at our study area, feeding patterns of bald‐faced saki remained largely invariant: fruits comprised approximately 95% of the species’ monthly diet, with seeds alone accounting for 75%, with no major monthly dietary shifts. The flexible exploitation by this species of a consistently available food supply for which it faces little competition likely reduces foraging effort and consumption of less desirable foods, even during prolonged periods of overall fruit scarcity. The relative rarity of immature fruit specialists in tropical forests may reflect the fact that processing the hard pericarps and neutralizing the toxicities of immature seeds present substantial evolutionary hurdles that few arboreal vertebrate species have overcome.
On the Crafting of Population Knowledge
Authors: Greenhalgh Susan
Published: March 2012

Focusing on the craft aspect of population research—the generally unremarked fact that behind our well‐turned‐out publications lie particular, historically situated humans using craft‐type techniques—this essay traces the history of the making of population knowledge about China by the author over some twenty‐five years. At least in this case, population research has taken the form not of a stable subdiscipline, but of a loose, flexible, opportunistic assemblage—of concerns, logics, techniques, methods, and ethics—that has been guided by some of the big questions posed by China's post‐Mao global rise. It suggests that, unlike disciplines and inter‐disciplines, population studies is a post‐disciplinary assemblage whose contents and boundaries are flexible, varying with the practitioner and the research question being explored. Recounting more individual histories of population knowledge‐making would help us see the strong shaping role of historical contexts and personal values in the crafting of population thought. Such insights would help us recognize the diverse pathways by which population knowledge is formed and the different purposes for which it is pursued.
Combined Effect of Hsp90 Inhibitor Geldanamycin and Parthenolide via Reactive Oxygen Species‐Mediated Apoptotic Process on Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Lee Chung S. , Kim Yun J. , Lee Seon A. , Myung Soon C. , Kim Wonyong
Published: March 2012

Hsp90 inhibitor geldanamycin and parthenolide have been shown to induce apoptosis in cancer cells. However, the combined effect of geldanamycin and parthenolide on epithelial ovarian cancer cells has not been studied. In respect of cell death process, we investigated the promoting effect of parthenolide on geldanamycin‐induced apoptosis in the human epithelial ovarian carcinoma cell lines OVCAR‐3 and SK‐OV‐3. Geldanamycin induced a decrease in Bid, Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL and survivin protein levels; an increase in Bax and tumour suppressor p53 levels; loss of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential; cytochrome c release; activation of caspases (‐8, ‐9 and ‐3); cleavage of PARP‐1; and increase in the reactive oxygen species formation. Parthenolide enhanced geldanamycin‐induced changes in the apoptosis‐related protein levels, reactive oxygen species formation, nuclear damage and cell death. The combined effect was inhibited by the addition of oxidant scavengers. The results suggest that parthenolide may potentiate the apoptotic effect of geldanamycin on ovarian carcinoma cell lines by the activation of the caspase‐8‐ and Bid‐dependent pathway and the mitochondria‐mediated apoptotic pathway. The apoptosis‐promoting effect seems to be mediated by the stimulatory effect on the formation of reactive oxygen species.
Fluctuating αO dynamos by iterated matrices
Authors: Richardson K. J. , Proctor M. R. E.
Published: March 2012

Recent publications have suggested various scaling laws for dynamo growth rates when dynamo action is made possible or enhanced by shear. In order to understand the relation between the different scalings, we study a simple model mean field dynamo, in which the α-effect is piecewise constant in time, allowing a simple derivation of the growth rates in terms of iterated matrices. It is found that all the different scaling laws that appear in earlier work can be seen in different parameter regimes.
Steller sea lion spatial‐use patterns derived from a Bayesian model of opportunistic observations
Authors: Himes Boor Gina K. , Small Robert J.
Published: March 2012

Abstract

Despite acquisition of a substantial catalog of telemetry data from Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) over the past two decades, scientists still lack comprehensive regionally explicit knowledge about Steller sea lion habitat use. The Platforms of Opportunity data contain records of Steller sea lion sightings throughout the species’ entire range and have potential to fill gaps in knowledge about their spatial use; however, the data have not previously been used because effort (e.g., time spent surveying or area sampled) was not recorded when sightings were obtained. For this study a novel approach was used to overcome the lack of effort data through development of an effort index and a Bayesian negative binomial model. The model quantified Steller sea lion encounter rates and associated uncertainty within 15 × 15 km2grid cells across the species’ entire range. Year‐round, as well as breeding and nonbreeding season encounter rates were estimated. The results of this analysis identify several previously undocumented areas of high use by Steller sea lions, indicate that only 37% of Steller sea lion high‐use areas fall within designated critical habitat, and demonstrate that use of depth and distance from shore as indicators of Steller sea lion habitat is contraindicated.
The Human Child's Nature Orientation
Authors: Lee Patrick C.
Published: March 2012

This article pursues 3 interwoven objectives: to explore the hypothesis that the human child has a basic and developmentally significant orientation toward nature; to show that embracing this hypothesis would enrich and expand, rather than contest, the field's prevailing sociocultural account of child development; and, finally, to show that the hypothesis already enjoys a good fit with an emerging body of empirical findings. The article begins with a brief overview of the child's evolutionary background that centers on 2 constructs—Wilson's “biophilia” and Shipman's “animal connection.” It then turns to a discussion of 3 related areas of developmental research: children's interaction with pets, children's attitudes toward nature, and the animate–inanimate distinction. The article concludes with the proposal that this new emphasis on the human child's nature orientation may better position the field to address 21st‐century environmental issues and policy as they affect the child.
Discordant introgression in a rapidly expanding hybrid swarm
Authors: Ward Jessica L. , Blum Mike J. , Walters David M. , Porter Brady A. , Burkhead Noel , Freeman Byron
Published: March 2012

The erosion of species boundaries can involve rapid evolutionary change. Consequently, many aspects of the process remain poorly understood, including the formation, expansion, and evolution of hybrid swarms. Biological invasions involving hybridization present exceptional opportunities to study the erosion of species boundaries because timelines of interactions and outcomes are frequently well known. Here, we examined clinal variation across codominant and maternally inherited genetic markers as well as phenotypic traits to characterize the expansion and evolution of a hybrid swarm between nativeCyprinella venustaand invasiveCyprinella lutrensisminnows. Discordant introgression of phenotype, microsatellite multilocus genotype, and mtDNA haplotype indicates that the observable expansion of theC. venusta × C. lutrensishybrid swarm is a false invasion front. Both parental and hybrid individuals closely resemblingC. lutrensisare numerically dominant in the expansion wake, indicating that the non‐native parental phenotype may be selectively favored. These findings show that cryptic introgression can extend beyond the phenotypic boundaries of hybrid swarms and that hybrid swarms likely expand more rapidly than can be documented from phenotypic variation alone. Similarly, dominance of a single parental phenotype following an introduction event may lead to instances of species erosion being mistaken for species displacement without hybridization.
Oral health literacy: a pathway to reducing oral health disparities in Maryland
Authors: Horowitz Alice M. , Kleinman Dushanka V.
Published: March 2012

Oral health literacy is a relatively new but critical concept in our efforts to decrease disparities and increase oral health for all Marylanders. Oral health literacy is important because low health literacy contributes to disease which results in increased costs for all of us. Those with low health literacy are usually at highest risk for oral diseases and problems. These individuals include the poor, those with low levels of education, minorities, and the elderly. Prompted by the untimely demise of Deamonte Driver, Maryland has taken the lead in developing a statewide approach to improving oral health literacy with the ultimate objective of reducing disparities.
Outcomes of oral cancer early detection and prevention statewide model in Maryland
Authors: Maybury Catherine , Horowitz Alice M. , Goodman Harold S.
Published: March 2012

A high oral cancer mortality rate and a moderately high oral cancer incidence rate prompted Maryland to develop a statewide approach to oral cancer early detection and prevention. This approach can serve as a model for other states. Key lessons learned include the need to: develop a comprehensive plan that focuses on actions to increase awareness, education and training for the public, dental and non‐dental providers and policy makers; include oral cancer in the state's comprehensive cancer control plan to keep attention focused on this disease; and maintain high vigilance among stakeholders to keep oral cancer prevention and early detection a high priority within the state. Future efforts will focus on: requiring all dental and dental hygiene students to perform a set number of supervised oral cancer examinations for licensure to ensure a dental workforce that is competent and predisposed to providing routine oral cancer examinations; training health care providers such as doctors, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants to perform oral cancer examinations as part of a comprehensive cancer screening exam to expand the number of individuals that receive oral cancer examinations; and continuing to educate the public about oral cancer risk factors, its symptoms, and ways to prevent it.
Breaking the cycle in Maryland: oral health policy change in the face of tragedy
Authors: Thuku Njeri M. , Carulli Kelly , Costello Stacy , Goodman Harold S.
Published: March 2012

In response to the death of a young child, efforts by many partners have enabled Maryland to institute oral health reforms that ensure that low‐income children remain visible and have continued access to dental services. This paper shows how proponents of oral health in Maryland used issues that were already on the oral health policy agenda to break the cycle of nonaction and become a role model for other states. Deriving from the knowledge and advice of an advisory committee, Maryland administrators and state and federal legislators, with the support of many community partners, took appropriate action to elevate the oral health agenda. Maryland continues to address oral health issues, ensuring that the policy agenda is inclusive of all its citizens.
Enhancing government's policy management and decision‐making system: The case of Ghana's central governance reforms project
Authors: Appiah‐Adu Kwaku , Aning Samuel
Published: March 2012

Countries around the world are investing in the improvement of policy capacity in their public services. Ghana has made similar investments during the last decade, in order to achieve the government's far‐reaching policy agenda of transforming Ghana's economy. The Ghana Central Governance Project was initiated during the year 2000 in order to develop a skilled civil service, capable of moving coherently and effectively from policy and strategy to detailed policy options, budgeted programs and concrete results. This reform was deemed essential to the realization of the government's ambitious agenda.
The Effect of Cognitive Behavior Therapy on Decision Making in Adolescents who Self‐Harm: A Pilot Study
Authors: Oldershaw Anna , Simic Mima , Grima Emanuela , Jollant Fabrice , Richards Clair , Taylor Lucy , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: March 2012

Research shows poor decision making in adolescents who self‐harm and a positive correlation between decision‐making abilities and duration since last self‐harm episode. This exploratory study investigated whether decision making in self‐harming adolescents could be improved through treatment with a novel cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). It also investigated whether improvement in decision making following treatment was linked to self‐harm cessation. Adolescent self‐harmers receiving CBT (n = 24) or no treatment (n = 9) and healthy controls (n = 22) were longitudinally compared on the Iowa gambling task (IGT). Significant IGT improvements were only observed for adolescents who self‐harm following CBT. CBT may benefit adolescent self‐harmers and generate decision‐making improvements.
CORRELATION STUDY BETWEEN BONE MINERAL DENSITY DETERMINED BY RADIOGRAPHIC ABSORPTIOMETRY AND BONE RESISTANCE OF EQUINE THIRD METACARPAL BONE SUBMITTED TO BIOMECHANICAL TESTING
Authors: Frazao Paulo J R , Crispim Rodrigo , Pereira Cesar A M , Selim Mariana B , Facó Lara L , Fonseca Pinto Ana Carolina B C , Hagen Stefano C F , Zoppa André L V
Published: March 2012

Knowledge about non-invasive methods for early diagnostics in equine orthopedic disorders is economically important and has been widely studied. In this study, bone mineral density determined by radiographic absorptiometry was correlated to bone resistance of the equine third metacarpal bone submitted to biomechanical testing. Thirty pairs of third metacarpal bone of adult horses were collected, dissected, radiographed, analyzed by the radiographic absorptiometry technique, and submitted to tomographic study and biomechanical testing. No significant linear correlation between radiographic bone density values and measured biomechanical properties was observed. Therefore, bone mineral density of the third metacarpal bone determined by radiographic absorptiometry does not predict bone capacity to resist compression and flexion loads. Further studies should be developed to establish which techniques are reliably capable of giving such predictive information.
Serotonin 5-HT2C receptor-mediated inhibition of the M-current in hypothalamic POMC neurons
Authors: Roepke T. A. , Smith A. W. , Rønnekleiv O. K. , Kelly M. J.
Published: March 2012

Hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons are controlled by many central signals, including serotonin. Serotonin increases POMC activity and reduces feeding behavior via serotonion [5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] receptors by modulating K+ currents. A potential K+ current is the M-current, a noninactivating, subthreshold outward K+ current. Previously, we found that M-current activity was highly reduced in fasted vs. fed states in neuropeptide Y neurons. Because POMC neurons also respond to energy states, we hypothesized that fasting may alter the M-current and/or its modulation by serotonergic input to POMC neurons. Using visualized-patch recording in neurons from fed male enhanced green fluorescent protein-POMC transgenic mice, we established that POMC neurons expressed a robust M-current (102.1 ± 6.7 pA) that was antagonized by the selective KCNQ channel blocker XE-991 (40 μM). However, the XE-991-sensitive current in POMC neurons did not differ between fed and fasted states. To determine if serotonin suppresses the M-current via the 5-HT2C receptor, we examined the effects of the 5-HT2A/5-HT2C receptor agonist 2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine (DOI) on the M-current. Indeed, DOI attenuated the M-current by 34.5 ± 6.9% and 42.0 ± 5.3% in POMC neurons from fed and fasted male mice, respectively. In addition, the 5-HT1B/5-HT2C receptor agonist m-chlorophenylpiperazine attenuated the M-current by 42.4 ± 5.4% in POMC neurons from fed male mice. Moreover, the selective 5-HT2C receptor antagonist RS-102221 abrogated the actions of DOI in suppressing the M-current. Collectively, these data suggest that although M-current expression does not differ between fed and fasted states in POMC neurons, serotonin inhibits the M-current via activation of 5-HT2C receptors to increase POMC neuronal excitability and, subsequently, reduce food intake.
Preparation, Characterization, and Activity Evaluation of CuO/F-TiO2Photocatalyst
Authors: Jinfeng Zhang , Yunguang Yang , Wei Liu
Published: March 2012

CuO/F-TiO2nanoparticle photocatalyst was prepared by ball milling. The photocatalyst was characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, and photoluminescence emission spectroscopy. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by photocatalytic oxidation of rhodamine B and reduction of Cr2O7 2−. The results showed that, for F-TiO2photocatalyst, the photooxidation activity increases remarkably with the increasing amount of NH4F up to 1.0 g, and the photoreduction activity decreases gradually with the increase in the amounts of NH4F. For the CuO/F-TiO2photocatalyst, the photoreduction activity increases greatly with the increase in the amount of doped p-CuO up to 1.0 wt.%, and the photooxidation activity decreases rapidly with the increase in the amounts of doped p-CuO. Compared with pure TiO2, the photoabsorption wavelength range of the CuO/F-TiO2and F-TiO2photocatalysts red shifts and improves the utilization of the total spectrum. The effect of ball milling time on the photocatalytic activity of the photocatalysts was also investigated. The mechanisms of influence on the photocatalytic activity of the photocatalysts were also discussed.
An Adaptive System Supporting Collaborative Learning Based on a Location-Based Social Network and Semantic User Modeling
Authors: Choi Sook-Young , Kang Jang-Mook
Published: March 2012

This paper presents an adaptive e-learning system which supports collaborative learning based on a location-based social network and semantic modeling. In the system, a social network among e-learning learners is dynamically constructed on the basis of the location information of learners using GPS sensors for collaborative learning. In addition, user modeling for semantic social network and adaptive e-learning is supported. For these, a mechanism that supports the construction of a dynamic social network using the location information of smart phones is provided. The user modeling for the construction of a semantic social network and the support of adaptive e-learning considers the information such as the users' achievement, preference, and learning goal. Through this system, e-learners can find mentors who are able to facilitate their learning and create communities for collaborative learning offline and online. The support of a location-based social network service and semantic user model in our system would increase interactions among e-learners and improve satisfaction regarding their mobile learning environment.