bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microglia in juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis are primed toward a pro‐inflammatory phenotype
Authors: Xiong Juan , Kielian Tammy
Published: August 2013

Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is a lysosomal storage disease caused by an autosomal recessive mutation in CLN3. Regions of microglial activation precede and predict areas of neuronal loss in JNCL; however, the functional role of activated microglia remains to be defined. The inflammasome is a key molecular pathway for activating pro‐IL‐1β in microglia, and IL‐1β is elevated in the brains of JNCL patients and can induce neuronal cell death. Here, we utilized primary microglia isolated from CLN3Δex7/8 mutant and wild‐type (WT) mice to examine the impact of CLN3 mutation on microglial activation and inflammasome function. Treatment with neuronal lysates and ceramide, a lipid intermediate elevated in the JNCL brain, led to inflammasome activation and IL‐1β release in CLN3Δex7/8 microglia but not WT cells, as well as increased expression of additional pro‐inflammatory mediators. Similar effects were observed following either TNF‐α or IL‐1β treatment, suggesting that CLN3Δex7/8 microglia exist in primed state and hyper‐respond to several inflammatory stimuli compared to WT cells. CLN3Δex7/8 microglia displayed constitutive caspase‐1 activity that when blocked led to increased glutamate release that coincided with hemichannel opening. Conditioned medium from activated CLN3Δex7/8 or WT microglia induced significant cell death in CLN3Δex7/8 but not WT neurons, demonstrating that intrinsically diseased CLN3Δex7/8 neurons are less equipped to withstand cytotoxic insults generated by activated microglia. Collectively, aberrant microglial activation may contribute to the pathological chain of events leading to neurodegeneration during later stages of JNCL.

image

Juvenile neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (JNCL) is a lysosomal storage disease caused by an autosomal recessive mutation in CLN3. Regions of microglial activation precede and predict areas of neuronal loss in JNCL; however, the functional role of activated microglia remains to be defined. In this report, primary microglia from CLN3Δex7/8 mutant mice over‐produced numerous inflammatory cytokines in response to stimuli that are present in the JNCL brain, whereas wild‐type microglia were relatively non‐responsive. In addition, activated microglia induced significant cell death in CLN3Δex7/8 but not wild‐type neurons, demonstrating that intrinsically diseased CLN3Δex7/8 neurons are less equipped to withstand cytotoxic insults. Collectively, aberrant microglial activation may contribute to the pathological chain of events leading to neurodegeneration during later stages of JNCL.
The neuroprotective activity of the amyloid precursor protein against traumatic brain injury is mediated via the heparin binding site in residues 96‐110
Authors: Corrigan Frances , Thornton Emma , Roisman Laila C. , Leonard Anna V. , Vink Robert , Blumbergs Peter C. , van den Heuvel Corinna , Cappai Roberto
Published: August 2013

We have previously shown that following traumatic brain injury (TBI) the presence of the amyloid precursor protein (APP) may be neuroprotective. APP knockout mice have increased neuronal death and worse cognitive and motor outcomes following TBI, which is rescued by treatment with exogenous sAPPα (the secreted ectodomain of APP generated by α‐secretase cleavage). Two neuroprotective regions were identified in sAPPα, the N and C‐terminal domains D1 and D6a/E2 respectively. As both D1 and D6a/E2 contain heparin binding activity it was hypothesized that this is responsible for the neuroprotective activity. In this study, we focused on the heparin binding site, encompassed by residues 96‐110 in D1, which has previously been shown to have neurotrophic properties. We found that treatment with APP96‐110 rescued motor and cognitive deficits in APP−/− mice following focal TBI. APP96‐110 also provided neuroprotection in Sprague–Dawley rats following diffuse TBI. Treatment with APP96‐110 significantly improved functional outcome as well as preserve histological cellular morphology in APP−/− mice following focal controlled cortical impact injury. Furthermore, following administration of APP96‐110 in rats after diffuse impact acceleration TBI, motor and cognitive outcomes were significantly improved and axonal injury reduced. These data define the heparin binding site in the D1 domain of sAPPα, represented by the sequence APP96‐110, as the neuroprotective site to confer neuroprotection following TBI.

image

The product of α‐secretase cleavage of the amyloid precursor protein, sAPPα is neuroprotective following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Of interest was whether this neuroprotective activity could be further delineated to a heparin binding region within sAPPα, corresponding to the region APP96‐110 (see diagram demonstrating the domain structure of sAPPα). Indeed treatment with APP96‐110 improved functional outcome following TBI, an effect that was not seen with a mutated version of the peptide that had reduced heparin binding affinity.
Zoospore Production Biology of Pythiaceous Plant Pathogens
Authors: Pistininzi Michael , Weiss Edward , Achtemeier Lauren , Hong Chuanxue
Published: August 2013

Zoospores are major dispersal and infective propagules of pythiaceous species. Built upon a recently developed ‘wet‐plate’ method, the objectives of this study were to develop a better understanding about zoospore production biology. Four broth media and five incubation temperatures were evaluated with 12 isolates of Phytophthora nicotianae and 17 other pythiaceous species in this study. The ‘wet‐plate’ method worked the best for heterothallic species, especially those isolates that do not produce chlamydospores. These species included Phytophthora citrophthora, P. nicotianae, Phytophthora palmivora and Phytophthora tropicalis. They readily produced 105–106 zoospores/ml. Overall, most species and isolates produced more zoospores with 20% clarified V8 broth than the other three media: rye, lima bean and carrot. The optimal temperature for nutrient‐deprived culture without free‐flowing water to produce sporangia typically is 5°C cooler than that for vegetative growth. Fresh and revived cultures are more prolific than those that had been subcultured multiple times. These findings will assist oomycete researchers, adding quality, productivity and efficiency to their future zoospore‐based studies.
Trust and Deception in Negotiation: Culturally Divergent Effects
Authors: Zhang Jian-Dong , Liu Leigh Anne , Liu Wu
Published: August 2013

We investigate how trust reduces the tendency to use deception in negotiations from a culturally contextual perspective. We find culturally divergent patterns across Chinese and American negotiators. Specifically, for Chinese negotiators, cognition-based trust decreases the approval of using negative emotional and informational deception, whereas affect-based trust increases the approval of using informational deception. For American negotiators, affect-based trust decreases the approval of using negative emotional deception. We discuss theoretical and practical implications on the need for culturally specific strategies in managing deceptions in negotiations.
Meditation and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Newberg Andrew B. , Serruya Mijail , Wintering Nancy , Moss Aleezé Sattar , Reibel Diane , Monti Daniel A.
Published: August 2013

Neurodegenerative diseases pose a significant problem for the healthcare system, doctors, and patients. With an aging population, more and more individuals are developing neurodegenerative diseases and there are few treatment options at the present time. Meditation techniques present an interesting potential adjuvant treatment for patients with neurodegenerative diseases and have the advantage of being inexpensive, and easy to teach and perform. There is increasing research evidence to support the application of meditation techniques to help improve cognition and memory in patients with neurodegenerative diseases. This review discusses the current data on meditation, memory, and attention, and the potential applications of meditation techniques in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
Exploring age‐related brain degeneration in meditation practitioners
Authors: Luders Eileen
Published: August 2013

A growing body of research suggests that meditation practices are associated with substantial psychological as well as physiological benefits. In searching for the biological mechanisms underlying the beneficial impact of meditation, studies have revealed practice‐induced alterations of neurotransmitters, brain activity, and cognitive abilities, just to name a few. These findings not only imply a close link between meditation and brain structure, but also suggest possible modulating effects of meditation on age‐related brain atrophy. Given that normal aging is associated with significant loss of brain tissue, meditation‐induced growth and/or preservation might manifest as a seemingly reduced brain age in meditators (i.e., cerebral measures characteristic of younger brains). Surprisingly, there are only three published studies that have addressed the question of whether meditation diminishes age‐related brain degeneration. This paper reviews these three studies with respect to the brain attributes studied, the analytical strategies applied, and the findings revealed. The review concludes with an elaborate discussion on the significance of existing studies, implications and directions for future studies, as well as the overall relevance of this field of research.
Identification and characterization of OsEBS, a gene involved in enhanced plant biomass and spikelet number in rice
Authors: Dong Xianxin , Wang Xiaoyan , Zhang Liangsheng , Yang Zhengting , Xin Xiaoyun , Wu Shuang , Sun Chuanqing , Liu Jianxiang , Yang Jinshui , Luo Xiaojin
Published: August 2013

Common wild rice (Oryza rufipogon Griff.) is an important genetic reservoir for rice improvement. We investigated a quantitative trait locus (QTL), qGP5‐1, which is related to plant height, leaf size and panicle architecture, using a set of introgression lines of O. rufipogon in the background of the Indica cultivar Guichao2 (Oryza sativa L.). We cloned and characterized qGP5‐1 and confirmed that the newly identified gene OsEBS (enhancing biomass and spikelet number) increased plant height, leaf size and spikelet number per panicle, leading to an increase in total grain yield per plant. Our results showed that the increased size of vegetative organs in OsEBS‐expressed plants was enormously caused by increasing cell number. Sequence alignment showed that OsEBS protein contains a region with high similarity to the N‐terminal conserved ATPase domain of Hsp70, but it lacks the C‐terminal regions of the peptide‐binding domain and the C‐terminal lid. More results indicated that OsEBS gene did not have typical characteristics of Hsp70 in this study. Furthermore, Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) transformed with OsEBS showed a similar phenotype to OsEBS‐transgenic rice, indicating a conserved function of OsEBS among plant species. Together, we report the cloning and characterization of OsEBS, a new QTL that controls rice biomass and spikelet number, through map‐based cloning, and it may have utility in improving grain yield in rice.
Applications of biotechnology and genomics in potato improvement
Authors: Barrell Philippa J. , Meiyalaghan Sathiyamoorthy , Jacobs Jeanne M.E. , Conner Anthony J.
Published: August 2013

Potato is the third most important global food crop and the most widely grown noncereal crop. As a species highly amenable to cell culture, it has a long history of biotechnology applications for crop improvement. This review begins with a historical perspective on potato improvement using biotechnology encompassing pathogen elimination, wide hybridization, ploidy manipulation and applications of cell culture. We describe the past developments and new approaches for gene transfer to potato. Transformation is highly effective for adding single genes to existing elite potato clones with no, or minimal, disturbances to their genetic background and represents the only effective way to produce isogenic lines of specific genotypes/cultivars. This is virtually impossible via traditional breeding as, due to the high heterozygosity in the tetraploid potato genome, the genetic integrity of potato clones is lost upon sexual reproduction as a result of allele segregation. These genetic attributes have also provided challenges for the development of genetic maps and applications of molecular markers and genomics in potato breeding. Various molecular approaches used to characterize loci, (candidate) genes and alleles in potato, and associating phenotype with genotype are also described. The recent determination of the potato genome sequence has presented new opportunities for genomewide assays to provide tools for gene discovery and enabling the development of robustly unique marker haplotypes spanning QTL regions. The latter will be useful in introgression breeding and whole‐genome approaches such as genomic selection to improve the efficiency of selecting elite clones and enhancing genetic gain over time.
Individual and familial factors associated with metabolic control in children with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Demirel Fatma , Tepe Derya , Esen Ihsan , Buber Nazli , Boztepe Handan
Published: August 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the individual and familial factors associated with metabolic control in children with type 1 diabetes (T1DM).

Methods

The study was performed in 93 children with T1DM between the ages of 3 and 19 years. Children and their families completed questionnaires on sociodemographics and data associated with diabetes. Medical information from the charts was also recorded.

Results

Older age, longer diabetes duration and higher hospitalization rate for acute complications were positively associated with poor metabolic control. Good school performance, regular hospital visits, young maternal age, high paternal education level and fewer numbers of siblings were found to be negatively associated with poor metabolic control.

Conclusions

Multiple individual and family‐level factors are associated with metabolic control. These data may aid in identification of diabetic children and adolescents who have a higher risk of poor metabolic control.
DNA methylation errors in imprinting disorders and assisted reproductive technology
Authors: Chiba Hatsune , Hiura Hitoshi , Okae Hiroaki , Miyauchi Naoko , Sato Fumi , Sato Akiko , Arima Takahiro
Published: August 2013

There have been increased incident reports of rare imprinting disorders associated with assisted reproductive technology (ART). ART is an important treatment for infertile people of reproductive age and is increasingly common. The identification of epigenetic changes at imprinted loci in ART infants has led to the suggestion that the techniques themselves may predispose embryos to acquisition of imprinting errors and disease. It is still unknown, however, at what point(s) these imprinting errors arise, or the risk factors. In this review it was hypothesized that the particular steps of the ART process may be prone to induction of imprinting methylation errors during gametogenesis, fertilization and early embryonic development. In addition, imprinting diseases and their causes are explained. Moreover, using a Japanese nationwide epidemiological study of imprinting diseases, their association with ART is determined. Epigenetic studies are required to understand the pathogenesis of this association; the ART‐related risk factor(s); and the precautions that can be taken to prevent the occurrence of these syndromes. It is hoped that the constitution of children born after ART will indicate the safest and most ethical approach to use, which will be invaluable for the future development of standard ART treatment.
Clinical importance of renal calyceal microlithiasis in children
Authors: Bilge Ilmay , Yilmaz Alev , Kayiran Sinan M , Emre Sevinc , Kadioglu Alev , Yekeler Ensar , Sucu Aysegul , Sirin Aydan
Published: August 2013

Background

Renal calyceal microlithiasis refers to a hyperechogenic spot in renal calyces <3 mm in diameter detected on renal sonography. These spots possibly represent the first step in calculus formation. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical presentation, predisposing factors, prognosis and clinical importance of these hyperechogenic spots in renal calyces, renal calyceal microlithiasis, during childhood.

Methods

The data of 292 children (135 girls, 157 boys) with microlithiasis diagnosed between January 1998 and December 2010 were evaluated retrospectively. Demographic data, serum biochemistry, urinary metabolic factors, and renal sonography results were obtained from patient files. A total of 228 patients were re‐evaluated at least 6 months after the first observation of renal calyceal microlithiasis and at 6–12 month intervals thereafter.

Results

Mean age was 16.8 ± 14.9 months, and mean follow‐up duration was 14.6 ± 5.9 months. Presenting symptoms were abdominal or flank pain (41.1%), hematuria (35.6%), dysuria (24.7%) and urinary tract infection (34.6%). Previous ultrasounds were normal in 35% of the children. Metabolic and anatomic abnormalities were found in 55.5% and 17.8%, respectively. Hypercalciuria was the most common metabolic abnormality (88.9%). Among 228 patients who had been re‐evaluated, microlithiasis disappeared in 37.7%; decreased in number or size in 23.7%; progressed to renal stone formation in 10.6%; increased in number of microlithiasis in 19.0%; and remained unchanged on radiology in 9.0%.

Conclusion

Renal calyceal microlithiasis represents a spectrum of clinical situations and underlying metabolic abnormalities that need further investigation in children.
Short‐Term Storage and Swim‐Up Selection Do Not Affect the X/Y Ratio in Equine Spermatozoa
Authors: Orsztynowicz M , Pawlak P , Kociucka B , Mucha S , Klukowska‐Rotzler J , Lechniak D
Published: August 2013

Contents

The standard procedure of artificial insemination with fresh equine spermatozoa involves short‐term storage (to 48 h at 5°C). This procedure is accompanied by a gradual loss of sperm viability. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the X/Y ratio of equine spermatozoa is affected by short‐term storage and the swim‐up procedure. We used a standard protocol, for short‐term storage (0, 24 and 48 h at 5°C) of stallion semen diluted in the commercial extender EquiPro™ (Minitüb GmbH, Tiefenbach, Germany). After each set‐up storage period, the motile fraction of sperm cells was selected by the swim‐up method. The X/Y ratio was evaluated by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) in the fresh, non‐selected sperm, and in motile spermatozoa selected after each of the storage periods. Molecular probes for the equine chromosomes X and Y were used. The X/Y ratio in all sperm samples analysed in this study (fresh and stored) was not different from the theoretical 1 : 1 value. The incidence of chromosomally abnormal sperm cells in the fresh (0.28%) and motile (0.13%) sperm samples was not significantly different. The two approaches (sperm storage up to 48 h and the swim‐up procedure) applied to this study did not affect the X/Y ratio in the motile fraction of equine spermatozoa. This finding does not conform to phenomena described for human and cattle. For this reason, the finding may imply species‐related differences.
Post‐fire invasion and subsequent extinction of Conyza spp. in Mediterranean forests is mostly explained by local factors
Authors: Pino J , Arnan X , Rodrigo A , Retana J
Published: August 2013

This work explored the invasion patterns of Conyza species in Mediterranean pine forests after fire and identified their main correlates through a temporal study approach. We hypothesised that wildfires might favour Conyza spp. invasion in these forests, but only transiently and depending on fire regime. We recorded Conyza spp. invasion and subsequent extinction in plots from species' occurrence and cover in vegetation surveys. We also explored the association of Conyza spp. presence and cover with a set of climatic, landscape and local (plot) factors using GLZ and GLM. We assessed changes in significant factors over time with a Wilcoxon test for paired samples. Evidence for Conyza spp. establishment was found in two‐thirds of the study plots, with an invasion peak 2 years after fire. Local factors related to resource availability, including high fire severity, low soil stoniness and total vegetation cover and high herbaceous cover, were significantly correlated with Conyza occurrence in plots at the invasion peak. However, Conyza cover was always low (≤6%) and populations did not persist more than several years, thus becoming rarer as plant cover increased. Landscape and climatic factors showed no association with Conyza occurrence. In conclusion, wildfires favour transient invasion of European Mediterranean pine forests by Conyza spp. Invasion is mostly enhanced by local fire severity and constrained by subsequent vegetation recovery, while it is poorly explained by climate and landscape, either current or historical.
The Effect of Nanoparticles on the Real Area of Contact, Friction, and Wear
Authors: Ghaednia Hamed , Jackson Robert L.
Published: August 2013

Although nanoparticle additives have been the topic of multiple studies recently, very little work has attempted to explicitly model the third body contact of nanoparticles. This work presents and uses a novel methodology to model nanoparticles in contact between rough surfaces. The model uses two submodels to handle different scales of contact, namely the nano-sized particles and micrometer-sized roughness features. Silicon nanoparticles suspended in conventional lubricant are modeled in contact between steel rough surfaces. The effect of the particles on contact force and real area of contact has been modeled. The model makes predictions of the coefficient of friction and wear using fundamental models. The results suggest that particles would reduce the real area of contact and, therefore, decrease the friction force. Also, particles could induce abrasive wear by scratching the surfaces. The implications of the model are also discussed, and the arguments and results have been linked to available experimental data. This work finds that particle size and distribution are playing a key role in tribology characteristics of the nanolubricants.
Lift-Off Behavior of Micro and Nanoparticles in Contact With a Flat Surface
Authors: Rivera Julio L. , Sutherland John W. , Allen Jeffrey S.
Published: August 2013

The suspension of small particles from flat surfaces is recognized as a source of pollution and a potential hazard to exposed humans. The interaction of air flow over a particle in contact with a flat surface was studied. Parameters that affect the air flow-particle-surface interaction were taken into consideration and conditions that would lead to particle lift-off were identified. The results showed that particles 100 nm in size will lift-off from the surface for separation distances greater than 20 nm. A mapping strategy is proposed that could be used to minimize the suspension of small particles if the particle size and separation distances are known.
Antifriction Bearings Damage Analysis Using Experimental Data Based Models
Authors: Desavale R. G. , Venkatachalam R. , Chavan S. P.
Published: August 2013

Diagnosis of antifriction bearings is usually performed by means of vibration signals measured by accelerometers placed in the proximity of the bearing under investigation. The aim is to monitor the integrity of the bearing components, in order to avoid catastrophic failures, or to implement condition based maintenance strategies. In particular, the trend in this field is to combine in a simple theory the different signal-enhancement and signal-analysis techniques. The experimental data based model (EDBM) has been pointed out as a key tool that is able to highlight the effect of possible damage in one of the bearing components within the vibration signal. This paper presents the application of the EDBM technique to signals collected on a test-rig, and be able to test damaged fibrizer roller bearings in different working conditions. The effectiveness of the technique has been tested by comparing the results of one undamaged bearing with three bearings artificially damaged in different locations, namely on the inner race, outer race, and rollers. Since EDBM performances are dependent on the filter length, the most suitable value of this parameter is defined on the basis of both the application and measured signals. This paper represents an original contribution of the paper.
Finite Element Analysis for Shock Resistance Evaluation of Cushion-Packaged Multifunction Printer Considering Internal Modules
Authors: Kim Se-Chang , Cho Dae-Geun , Kim Tae-Gyu , Jung Se-Hun , Koo Ja-Choon , Kim Moon-Ki , Choi Jae-Boong
Published: August 2013

Failures in IT electronics are often caused by falling or external shocks during transportation. These failures cause customers to mistrust the reliability of the products. Many manufacturers of IT electronics have not only used cushioning materials but also increased the shock resistance of their products for failure prevention. Especially in case of printer products, the design of the packaging and the product robustness are extremely important because of their substantial weight and the fragility of the internal modules. For product design, it is essential to understand the impact failure mechanism of the products. In this study, a compression test, a drop impact test, and a finite element analysis (FEA) were performed to analyze the dynamic behaviors of a packaged multifunction printer (MFP). The mechanical properties of a cushioning material were measured by compression tests. The FE models of the cushion packaging and the MFP included the physical characteristics of the internal modules, and their dynamic behaviors were obtained using the commercial software ls-dyna3d. Simulation results were also compared with drop test results to verify the proposed FE models. The shock resistance of the MFP was assessed by stress analysis and strength evaluation. We also expect our FE models will be useful for evaluating the fragility of the internal modules because the models can numerically estimate the shock acceleration profiles of the internal modules, which are difficult to measure experimentally.
Experimental and Numerical Studies for a High Head Francis Turbine at Several Operating Points
Authors: Trivedi Chirag , Cervantes Michel J. , Gandhi B. K. , Dahlhaug Ole G.
Published: August 2013

Experimental and numerical studies on a high head model Francis turbine were carried out over the entire range of turbine operation. A complete Hill diagram was constructed and pressure-time measurements were performed at several operating conditions over the entire range of power generation by installing pressure sensors in the rotating and stationary domains of the turbine. Unsteady numerical simulations were performed at five operating conditions using two turbulent models, shear stress transport (SST) k-ω and standard k-ε and two advection schemes, high resolution and second order upwind. There was a very small difference (0.85%) between the experimental and numerical hydraulic efficiencies at the best efficiency point (BEP); the maximum difference (14%) between the experimental and numerical efficiencies was found at lower discharge turbine operation. Investigation of both the numerical and experimental pressure-time signals showed that the complex interaction between the rotor and stator caused an output torque oscillation over a particular power generation range. The pressure oscillations that developed due to guide vanes and runner blades interaction propagate up to the trailing edge of the blades. Fourier analysis of the signals revealed the presence of a vortex rope in the draft tube during turbine operation away from the BEP.
Understanding Consumer Tradeoffs Between Form and Function Through Metaconjoint and Cognitive Neuroscience Analyses
Authors: Sylcott Brian , Cagan Jonathan , Tabibnia Golnaz
Published: August 2013

This work investigates how consumers make preference judgments when taking into account both product form and function. In prior work, where aesthetic preference is quantified using visual conjoint methods, aesthetic preference and functional preference were handled separately. Here, we introduce a new methodology, metaconjoint analysis, for testing the hypothesis that when consumers make decisions taking into account both a product's form and its function they employ a more complex decision-making strategy than when basing their decisions on form or function alone. We anticipate that this strategy will involve both analytical and emotional processes. When compared with participant ratings of form and function combinations across 28 subjects, the metaconjoint model is shown to have a correlation that was not statistically different from an additive model of form and function. However, unlike the additive model, the metaconjoint model gave additional information about how participants make tradeoffs between form and function. Next, we developed a novel paradigm using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to determine what parts of the brain are primarily involved with a given tradeoff between form and function. While in the scanner, study participants were asked to make decisions in trials where only form varied, where only function varied, and where both form and function varied. Results from 14 participants suggest that choices based on products that vary in both form and function involve some unique and some common brain networks as compared to choices based on form or function alone; notably, emotion-related regions are activated during these complex decisions where form and function are in conflict. These results are consistent with the inclusion of emotion in decision-making with regards to product choice and demonstrate the feasibility of using fMRI to address questions about the mental processes underlying consumer decisions. Studying preference decisions together with their accompanying neurological activity will give engineers and designers greater insight into the consumer decision-making process.
Low‐dose phase contrast mammography with conventional x‐ray sources
Authors: Olivo A. , Gkoumas S. , Endrizzi M. , Hagen C. K. , Szafraniec M. B. , Diemoz P. C. , Munro P. R. T. , Ignatyev K. , Johnson B. , Horrocks J. A. , Vinnicombe S. J. , Jones J. L. , Speller R. D.
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

To provide an x‐ray phase contrast imaging (XPCI) method working with conventional sources that could be readily translated into clinical practice. XPCI shows potential in synchrotron studies but attempts at translating it for use with conventional sources are subject to limitations in terms of field of view, stability, exposure time, and possibly most importantly, delivered dose.

Methods:

Following the adaptation of our “edge‐illumination” XPCI technique for use with conventional x‐ray sources through the use of x‐ray masks, the authors have further modified the design of such masks to allow further reducing the dose delivered to the sample without affecting the phase sensitivity of the method.

Results:

The authors have built a prototype based on the new mask design and used it to imageex vivo breast tissue samples containing malignant lesions. The authors compared images acquired with this prototype to those obtained with a conventional system. The authors demonstrate and quantify image improvements, especially in terms of microcalcification detection. On calcifications detected also by the conventional system, the authors measure contrast increases from five to nine fold; calcifications and other features were also detected which are completely invisible in the conventional image. Dose measurements confirmed that the above enhancements were achieved while delivering doses compatible with clinical practice.

Conclusions:

The authors obtained phase‐related image enhancements in mammography by means of a system built with components available off‐the‐shelf that operates under exposure time and dose conditions compatible with clinical practice. This opens the way to a straightforward translation of phase enhanced imaging methods into clinical practice.
Cup of Joe: A Brain Development “No”?
Authors: Kabir Zeeba D. , McCarthy Deirdre M. , Bhide Pradeep G. , Kosofsky Barry E.
Published: August 2013

Treating pregnant mice with adenosine receptor antagonists including caffeine results in delayed migration of cortical GABA neurons and altered brain development in mouse offspring (Silva
et al
.).
More and Better Bone Formation for the Elderly
Authors: Balcells Mercedes
Published: August 2013

Repair of critical-size bone defects in aged animals is improved when bone grafts are incubated with stem-cell factor Wnt3a before implantation.
Pumping Iron Alters DNA Methylation
Authors: Neale Benjamin M.
Published: August 2013

After a 6-month exercise regimen, sedentary men show DNA methylation changes in adipose tissue.
Acinetobacter baumannii Strain M2 Produces Type IV Pili Which Play a Role in Natural Transformation and Twitching Motility but Not Surface-Associated Motility
Authors: Harding Christian M. , Tracy Erin N. , Carruthers Michael D. , Rather Philip N. , Actis Luis A. , Munson Robert S.
Published: August 2013

Acinetobacter baumannii
is a Gram-negative, opportunistic pathogen. Recently, multiple
A. baumannii
genomes have been sequenced; these data have led to the identification of many genes predicted to encode proteins required for the biogenesis of type IV pili (TFP). However, there is no experimental evidence demonstrating that
A. baumannii
strains actually produce functional TFP. Here, we demonstrated that
A. baumannii
strain M2 is naturally transformable and capable of twitching motility, two classical TFP-associated phenotypes. Strains were constructed with mutations in
pilA
,
pilD
, and
pilT
, genes whose products have been well characterized in other systems. These mutants were no longer naturally transformable and did not exhibit twitching motility. These TFP-associated phenotypes were restored when these mutations were complemented. More PilA was detected on the surface of the
pilT
mutant than the parental strain, and TFP were visualized on the
pilT
mutant by transmission electron microscopy. Thus,
A. baumannii
produces functional TFP and utilizes TFP for both natural transformation and twitching motility. Several investigators have hypothesized that TFP might be responsible, in part, for the flagellum-independent surface-associated motility exhibited by many
A. baumannii
clinical isolates. We demonstrated that surface-associated motility was not dependent on the products of the
pilA
,
pilD
, and
pilT
genes and, by correlation, TFP. The identification of functional TFP in
A. baumannii
lays the foundation for future work determining the role of TFP in models of virulence that partially recapitulate human disease.

IMPORTANCE
Several investigators have documented the presence of genes predicted to encode proteins required for the biogenesis of TFP in many
A. baumannii
genomes. Furthermore, some have speculated that TFP may play a role in the unique surface-associated motility phenotype exhibited by many
A. baumannii
clinical isolates, yet there has been no experimental evidence to prove this. Unfortunately, progress in understanding the biology and virulence of
A. baumannii
has been slowed by the difficulty of constructing and complementing mutations in this species. Strain M2, a recently characterized clinical isolate, is amenable to genetic manipulation. We have established a reproducible system for the generation of marked and/or unmarked mutations using a modified recombineering strategy as well as a genetic complementation system utilizing a modified mini-Tn
7
element in strain M2. Using this strategy, we demonstrated that strain M2 produces TFP and that TFP are not required for surface-associated motility exhibited by strain M2.
Structure and Evolution of Chlorate Reduction Composite Transposons
Authors: Clark Iain C. , Melnyk Ryan A. , Engelbrektson Anna , Coates John D.
Published: August 2013

The genes for chlorate reduction in six bacterial strains were analyzed in order to gain insight into the metabolism. A newly isolated chlorate-reducing bacterium (
Shewanella alga
e
ACDC) and three previously isolated strains (
Ideonella dechloratans
,
Pseudomonas
sp. strain PK, and
Dechloromarinus chlorophilus
NSS) were genome sequenced and compared to published sequences (
Alicycliphilus denitrificans
BC plasmid pALIDE01 and
Pseudomonas chloritidismutans
AW-1).
De novo
assembly of genomes failed to join regions adjacent to genes involved in chlorate reduction, suggesting the presence of repeat regions. Using a bioinformatics approach and finishing PCRs to connect fragmented contigs, we discovered that chlorate reduction genes are flanked by insertion sequences, forming composite transposons in all four newly sequenced strains. These insertion sequences delineate regions with the potential to move horizontally and define a set of genes that may be important for chlorate reduction. In addition to core metabolic components, we have highlighted several such genes through comparative analysis and visualization. Phylogenetic analysis places chlorate reductase within a functionally diverse clade of type II dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) reductases, part of a larger family of enzymes with reactivity toward chlorate. Nucleotide-level forensics of regions surrounding chlorite dismutase (
cld
), as well as its phylogenetic clustering in a betaproteobacterial Cld clade, indicate that
cld
has been mobilized at least once from a perchlorate reducer to build chlorate respiration.

IMPORTANCE
Genome sequencing has identified, for the first time, chlorate reduction composite transposons. These transposons are constructed with flanking insertion sequences that differ in type and orientation between organisms, indicating that this mobile element has formed multiple times and is important for dissemination. Apart from core metabolic enzymes, very little is known about the genetic factors involved in chlorate reduction. Comparative analysis has identified several genes that may also be important, but the relative absence of accessory genes suggests that this mobile metabolism relies on host systems for electron transport, regulation, and cofactor synthesis. Phylogenetic analysis of Cld and ClrA provides support for the hypothesis that chlorate reduction was built multiple times from type II dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) reductases and
cld
. In at least one case,
cld
has been coopted from a perchlorate reduction island for this purpose. This work is a significant step toward understanding the genetics and evolution of chlorate reduction.
Influence of Vaginal Bacteria andd- andl-Lactic Acid Isomers on Vaginal Extracellular Matrix Metalloproteinase Inducer: Implications for Protection against Upper Genital Tract Infections
Authors: Witkin Steven S. , Mendes-Soares Helena , Linhares Iara M. , Jayaram Aswathi , Ledger William J. , Forney Larry J.
Published: August 2013

We evaluated levels of vaginal extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-8) in vaginal secretions in relation to the composition of vaginal bacterial communities andd- andl-lactic acid levels. The composition of vaginal bacterial communities in 46 women was determined by pyrosequencing the V1 to V3 region of 16S rRNA genes. Lactobacilli were dominant in 71.3% of the women, followed byGardnerella(17.4%),Streptococcus(8.7%), andEnterococcus(2.2%). Of the lactobacillus-dominated communities, 51.5% were dominated byLactobacillus crispatus, 36.4% byLactobacillus iners, and 6.1% each byLactobacillus gasseriandLactobacillus jensenii. Concentrations ofl-lactic acid were slightly higher in lactobacillus-dominated vaginal samples, but most differences were not statistically significant.d-Lactic acid levels were higher in samples containingL. crispatusthan in those withL. iners(P< 0.0001) orGardnerella(P= 0.0002). The relative proportion ofd-lactic acid in vaginal communities dominated by species of lactobacilli was in concordance with the proportions found in axenic cultures of the various species grownin vitro. Levels ofl-lactic acid (P< 0.0001) and the ratio ofl-lactic acid tod-lactic acid (P= 0.0060), but not concentrations ofd-lactic acid, were also correlated with EMMPRIN concentrations. Moreover, vaginal concentrations of EMMPRIN and MMP-8 levels were highly correlated (P< 0.0001). Taken together, the data suggest the relative proportion ofl- tod-lactic acid isomers in the vagina may influence the extent of local EMMPRIN production and subsequent induction of MMP-8. The expression of these proteins may help determine the ability of bacteria to transverse the cervix and initiate upper genital tract infections.

IMPORTANCEA large proportion of preterm births (>50%) result from infections caused by bacteria originating in the vagina, which requires that they traverse the cervix. Factors that influence susceptibility to these infections are not well understood; however, there is evidence that matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-8) is known to alter the integrity of the cervix. In this work, we show that concentrations of vaginal extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN) are influenced by members of the vaginal microbial community and concentrations ofd- orl-lactic acid isomers in vaginal secretions. Elevated levels ofd-lactic acid and the ratio ofd- tol-lactic acid influence EMMPRIN concentrations as well as MMP-8 levels. Thus, isomers of lactic acid may function as signaling molecules that alter host gene expression and influence risk of infection-related preterm birth.
γ-Benzene hexachloride poisoning leading to acute hepatorenal decompensation
Authors: Paul Rudrajit , Talukdar Arunansu , Bhattacharya Raja , Santra Gouranga
Published: August 2013

γ-Benzene hexachloride is a commonly used insecticide of organochlorine group. Notable toxic effects include seizures, ataxia, confusion and other central nervous system dysfunction. A 30-year-old male farmer with suicidal ingestion of γ-benzene hexachloride poison developed acute intrinsic renal failure with azotaemia and diminished urine output along with features of acute fulminate liver failure. Renal function recovered with haemodialysis and liver parameters gradually normalised with time. As per our knowledge simultaneous acute hepatic and kidney injury associated with γ-benzene hexachloride poison is never reported in humans. The exact pathophysiology of this life-threatening complication is an enigma. However, oxidative stress has been postulated as a contributory factor as suggested in animal studies. Conservative management with successful outcome in our case stresses on the impact of watchful observation and aggressive management. He was discharged after 3 weeks at stable condition and was healthy at 3 months follow-up.
Recruitment bronchoscopy by trans-glottic approach successfully treated lung collapse in an intubated mechanically ventilated patient
Authors: Abtahi Hamidreza , Asadi Gharabaghi Mehrnaz , Azimi Mehdi
Published: August 2013

Pulmonary lower lobe atelectasis/collapse is a common problem in patients undergoing mechanical ventilation. It also occurs in non-intubated patients with traumatic brain or spinal cord injuries, morbid obesities and chest wall disorders. Conventional manoeuvres such as chest physiotherapy, bronchodilators and positive-end expiratory pressure (PEEP) administration are frequently used in its management with variable success rates. However, despite the reported success of bronchoscopic recruitment manoeuvres, selective intrabronchial air insufflation during fiberoptic bronchoscopy to re-expand collapsed lungs is an underutilised practice. Here, we report an example of successful selective intrabronchial air insufflation in an intubated patient with bilateral lower lobe collapses after surgery for an incarcerated hernia. To our knowledge, this is the first successful report of recruitment manoeuvre by trans-glottic bronchoscopy in an intubated, mechanically ventilated patient.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of anterior cruciate ligament injury prevention programme training components: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Taylor Jeffrey B , Waxman Justin P , Richter Scott J , Shultz Sandra J
Published: August 2013

Background

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury prevention programmes have shown mixed results, which may be due to differing emphasis on training components. The purpose of this study was to (1) quantify the overall and relative duration of each training component encompassed within these programmes and (2) examine the effect of these durations on ACL injury rates.

Methods

A systematic review was completed and meta-analyses performed on eligible studies to produce a pooled OR estimate of the effectiveness of these programmes. Meta-regression was used to detect any relationship that programme duration and the duration of individual training components had on ACL injury rates.

Results

13 studies were included for review. Results of the meta-analyses revealed a significant reduction of injuries after preventative training programmes for all ACL injuries (pooled OR estimate of 0.612, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.85; p=0.004) and for non-contact ACL injuries (OR 0.351, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.54; p<0.001). Results of meta-regression analysis revealed that a greater duration of balance training was associated with a higher injury risk for ACL injury (p=0.04), while greater durations of static stretching was associated with a lower injury risk for non-contact ACL injuries (p=0.04).

Conclusions

While ACL prevention programmes are successful in reducing the risk of ACL injury, the ideal combination and emphasis of training components within these programmes remains unclear. Evidence indicates that greater emphases on balance training and static stretching may be associated with an increase and decrease in injury risk, respectively.
Surgical checklists: a systematic review of impacts and implementation
Authors: Treadwell Jonathan R , Lucas Scott , Tsou Amy Y
Published: August 2013

Background

Surgical complications represent a significant cause of morbidity and mortality with the rate of major complications after inpatient surgery estimated at 3–17% in industrialised countries. The purpose of this review was to summarise experience with surgical checklist use and efficacy for improving patient safety.

Methods

A search of four databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE and the Cochrane Database of Controlled Trials) was conducted from 1 January 2000 to 26 October 2012. Articles describing actual use of the WHO checklist, the Surgical Patient Safety System (SURPASS) checklist, a wrong-site surgery checklist or an anaesthesia equipment checklist were eligible for inclusion (this manuscript summarises all but the anaesthesia equipment checklists, which are described in the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality publication).

Results

We included a total of 33 studies. We report a variety of outcomes including avoidance of adverse events, facilitators and barriers to implementation. Checklists have been adopted in a wide variety of settings and represent a promising strategy for improving the culture of patient safety and perioperative care in a wide variety of settings. Surgical checklists were associated with increased detection of potential safety hazards, decreased surgical complications and improved communication among operating staff. Strategies for successful checklist implementation included enlisting institutional leaders as local champions, incorporating staff feedback for checklist adaptation and avoiding redundancies with existing systems for collecting information.

Conclusions

Surgical checklists represent a relatively simple and promising strategy for addressing surgical patient safety worldwide. Further studies are needed to evaluate to what degree checklists improve clinical outcomes and whether improvements may be more pronounced in particular settings.