bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resting-State Functional Brain Connectivity
Authors: Niu Haijing , He Yong
Published: September 2013

Resting-state functional near-infrared spectroscopy (R-fNIRS) is an active area of interest and is currently attracting considerable attention as a new imaging tool for the study of resting-state brain function. Using variations in hemodynamic concentration signals, R-fNIRS measures the brain’s low-frequency spontaneous neural activity, combining the advantages of portability, low-cost, high temporal sampling rate and less physical burden to participants. The temporal synchronization of spontaneous neuronal activity in anatomically separated regions is referred to as resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC). In the past several years, an increasing body of R-fNIRS RSFC studies has led to many important findings about functional integration among local or whole-brain regions by measuring inter-regional temporal synchronization. Here, we summarize recent advances made in the R-fNIRS RSFC methodologies, from the detection of RSFC (e.g., seed-based correlation analysis, independent component analysis, whole-brain correlation analysis, and graph-theoretical topological analysis), to the assessment of RSFC performance (e.g., reliability, repeatability, and validity), to the application of RSFC in studying normal development and brain disorders. The literature reviewed here suggests that RSFC analyses based on R-fNIRS data are valid and reliable for the study of brain function in healthy and diseased populations, thus providing a promising imaging tool for cognitive science and clinics.
The impact of pre-transplant valganciclovir on early cytomegalovirus reactivation after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Wilhelm Kaci , Chemaly Roy , Saliba Rima , Gulbis Alison , Saunders Ila , Cool Rita , Ferguson Jill , Westmoreland Michael , Rondon Gabriela , Kebriaei Partow
Published: September 2013

Cytomegalovirus reactivation is a common complication of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. The use of pre-transplant valganciclovir during the conditioning regimen followed by preemptive therapy has been used in an attempt to reduce the rate of early cytomegalovirus reactivation, but efficacy data are lacking. In this retrospective study, we evaluated the impact of pre-transplant valganciclovir during the conditioning regimen followed by a preemptive approach on the rate of early cytomegalovirus reactivation through day 100. The rate of cytomegalovirus reactivation through day 100 was 41% in the no-valganciclovir group compared to 46% in the valganciclovir group ( p = 0.4). Interestingly, median time to cytomegalovirus reactivation was earlier in the no-valganciclovir group compared to the valganciclovir group (26 vs. 34 days; p = 0.008) and there was a trend toward a higher rate of cytomegalovirus disease through day 100 in the no-valganciclovir group (0.7% valganciclovir vs. 4% no-valganciclovir; p = 0.1). Day 100 survival was similar between the groups (90% valganciclovir vs. 91% no-valganciclovir; p = 0.8). Although the time to cytomegalovirus reactivation is significantly longer in the valganciclovir group, this did not impact the rate of cytomegalovirus reactivation or survival by day 100 suggesting that other strategies need to be explored.
Spatial planning as condensation of social relations: A dialectical approach
Authors: Holgersen Ståle
Published: September 2013

Inspired by state theory and in particular Nicos Poulantzas, this article claims that spatial planning should be seen neither as autonomous (subject) nor merely an expression of something else (thing), but rather grasped as a place for condensation of social relations. The notion of dialectics is used in order to grasp relations between planning and other aspects and social relations. From this, we can outline five theses, claiming that planning (1) is constituted by conflicts which are grounded in social relations, (2) is never a neutral place, (3) contains neither a ‘dark’ nor a ‘bright’ side, (4) and is changing and being changed by the world and also that (5) political alliances should be made between planners and non-planners who want the world to change in similar directions.
Neonatal euthanasia: A claim for an immoral law
Authors: Eijnden Serge Vanden , Martinovici Dana
Published: September 2013

Active ending of the life of a newborn baby is a crime. Yet its clandestine practise is a reality in several European countries. In this paper, we defend the necessity to institute a proper legal frame for what we define as active neonatal euthanasia. The only legal attempt so far, the Dutch Groningen protocol, is not satisfactory. We critically analyse this protocol, as well as several other clinical practises and philosophical stances. Furthermore, we have tried to integrate our opinions as clinicians into a law project, with the purpose of pinpointing several issues, specific of perinatality that should be addressed by such a law. In conclusion, we argue that the legalisation of neonatal euthanasia under exceptional circumstances is the only way to avoid all the “well-intentioned” malpractices associated with ending life at the very dawn of it.
A randomized trial of a fully covered self-expandable metallic stent versus plastic stents in anastomotic biliary strictures after liver transplantation
Authors: Kaffes Arthur , Griffin Sean , Vaughan Rhys , James Martin , Chua Tee , Tee Hoi , Dinesen Lotte , Corte Crispin , Gill Raghubinder
Published: September 2013

Background:

Post-liver-transplant biliary anastomotic strictures (ASs) are currently managed with repeated endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatographies (ERCPs) inserting multiple plastic stents. Fully covered self-expanding metal stents (FCSEMSs) are being increasingly reported in the management of this condition, however no prospective randomized trials have been performed to date.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine whether FCSEMSs decrease overall numbers of ERCPs needed to achieve stricture resolution and to establish the safety, efficacy and cost-effectiveness in this setting.

Methods:

Two tertiary referral centres performed this open-label prospective randomized trial. A total of 32 patients consented and subsequently 20 were randomized with 10 in the FCSEMS arm and 10 in the plastic arm. The FCSEMS arm had the stent in situ for 12 weeks with the plastic stent arm undergoing 3-monthly multiple plastic stenting with or without dilatation over a year.

Results:

The median number of ERCPs performed per patient in the FCSEMS was 2 versus 4.5 ( p = 0.0001) in the plastic stenting arm. Stricture resolution was achieved in all 10 patients with FCSEMSs compared with 8/10 in the plastic arm [ p = not significant (NS)]. Complications occurred in 1/10 patients in the FCSEMS arm versus 5/10 in the plastic arm ( p = 0.051). Days in hospital for complications was 6 in the FCSEMS versus 56 in the plastic arm ( p = 0.11). Cost analysis shows that the FCSEMS arm was more cost effective. No cases of FCSEMS migration were seen.

Conclusions:

FCSEMSs reduced the number of ERCPs needed to achieve stricture resolution with similar recurrence rates between arms. The FCSEMSs may do so with fewer complications making it cost effective.
Applications of high-throughput DNA sequencing to benign hematology
Authors: Sankaran Vijay G. , Gallagher Patrick G.
Published: September 2013

The development of novel technologies for high-throughput DNA sequencing is having a major impact on our ability to measure and define normal and pathologic variation in humans. This review discusses advances in DNA sequencing that have been applied to benign hematologic disorders, including those affecting the red blood cell, the neutrophil, and other white blood cell lineages. Relevant examples of how these approaches have been used for disease diagnosis, gene discovery, and studying complex traits are provided. High-throughput DNA sequencing technology holds significant promise for impacting clinical care. This includes development of improved disease detection and diagnosis, better understanding of disease progression and stratification of risk of disease-specific complications, and development of improved therapeutic strategies, particularly patient-specific pharmacogenomics-based therapy, with monitoring of therapy by genomic biomarkers.
Cytological and molecular characterization of three gametoclones of Citrus clementina
Authors: Germana Maria Antonietta , Aleza Pablo , Carrera Esther , Chen Chunxian , Chiancone Benedetta , Costantino Gilles , Dambier Dominique , Deng Xiuxin , Federici Claire T , Froelicher Yann , Guo Wenwu , Ibáñez Victoria , Juárez José , Kwok Kevin , Luro François , Machado Marcos A , Naranjo Miguel Angel , Navarro Luis , Ollitrault Patrick , Ríos Gabino , Roose Mikeal L , Talon Manuel , Xu Qiang , Gmitter Fred G
Published: September 2013

Background

Three gametoclonal plants of Citrus clementina Hort. ex Tan., cv. Nules, designated ESP, FRA, and ITA (derived from three labs in Spain, France, and Italy, respectively), were selected for cytological and molecular characterization in order to elucidate genomic rearrangements provoked by haploidization. The study included comparisons of their ploidy, homozygosity, genome integrity, and gene dosage, using chromosome counting, flow cytometry, SSR marker genotyping, and array-Comparative Genomic Hybridization (array-CGH).

Results

Chromosome counting and flow cytometry revealed that ESP and FRA were haploid, but ITA was tri-haploid. Homozygous patterns, represented by a single peak (allele), were observed among the three plants at almost all SSR loci distributed across the entire diploid donor genome. Those few loci with extra peaks visualized as output from automated sequencing runs, generally low or ambiguous, might result from amplicons of paralogous members at the locus, non-specific sites, or unexpected recombinant alleles. No new alleles were found, suggesting the genomes remained stable and intact during gametogenesis and regeneration. The integrity of the haploid genome also was supported by array-CGH studies, in which genomic profiles were comparable to the diploid control.

Conclusions

The presence of few gene hybridization abnormalities, corroborated by gene dosage measurements, were hypothetically due to the segregation of hemizygous alleles and minor genomic rearrangements occurring during the haploidization procedure. In conclusion, these plants that are valuable genetic and breeding materials contain completely homozygous and essentially intact genomes.
Inhibiting signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 increases response to gemcitabine and delays progression of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Venkatasubbarao Kolaparthi , Peterson Lindsay , Zhao Shujie , Hill Ping , Cao Lin , Zhou Qing , Nawrocki Steffan T , Freeman James W
Published: September 2013

Background

Among the solid tumors, human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) has the worst prognosis. Gemcitabine is the standard first line of therapy for pancreatic cancer but has limited efficacy due to inherent or rapid development of resistance and combining EGFR inhibitors with this regimen results in only a modest clinical benefit. The goal of this study was to identify molecular targets that are activated during gemcitabine therapy alone or in combination with an EGFR inhibitor.

Methods

PDAC cell lines were used to determine molecular changes and rates of growth after treatment with gemcitabine or an EGFR inhibitor, AG1478, by Western blot analysis and MTT assays respectively. Flow cytometric analysis was performed to study the cell cycle progression and rate of apoptosis after gemcitabine treatment. ShRNA was used to knockdown STAT3. Anin vivoorthotopic animal model was used to evaluate STAT3 as a target. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to analyze Ki67 and STAT3 expression in tumors.

Results

Treatment with gemcitabine increased the levels of EGFRTyr1068and ERK phosphorylation in the PDAC cell lines tested. The constitutive STAT3Tyr705phosphorylation observed in PDAC cell lines was not altered by treatment with gemcitabine. Treatment of cells with gemcitabine or AG1478 resulted in differential rate of growth inhibition. AG1478 efficiently blocked the phosphorylation of EGFRTyr1068and inhibited the phosphorylation of down-stream effectors AKT and ERKs, while STAT3Tyr705phosphorylation remained unchanged. Combining these two agents neither induced synergistic growth suppression nor inhibited STAT3Tyr705phosphorylation, thus prompting further studies to assess whether targeting STAT3 improves the response to gemcitabine or AG1478. Indeed, knockdown of STAT3 increased sensitivity to gemcitabine by inducing pro-apoptotic signals and by increasing G1 cell cycle arrest. However, knockdown of STAT3 did not enhance the growth inhibitory potential of AG1478.In vivoorthotopic animal model results show that knockdown of STAT3 caused a significant reduction in tumor burden and delayed tumor progression with increased response to gemcitabine associated with a decrease in the Ki-67 positive cells.

Conclusions

This study suggests that STAT3 should be considered an important molecular target for therapy of PDAC for enhancing the response to gemcitabine.
Sex-specific expression of CTNNB1 in the gonadal morphogenesis of the chicken
Authors: Bae Seung-Min , Lim Whasun , Jeong Wooyoung , Lee Jin-Young , Kim Jinyoung , Bazer Fuller W , Song Gwonhwa
Published: September 2013

Background

Beta-catenin (CTNNB1), as a key transcriptional regulator in the WNT signal transduction cascade, plays a pivotal role in multiple biological functions such as embryonic development and homeostasis in adults. Although it has been suggested that CTNNB1 is required for gonad development and maintenance of ovarian function in mice, little is known about the expression and functional role of CTNNB1 in gonadal development and differentiation in the chicken reproductive system.

Methods

To examine sex-specific, cell-specific and temporal expression of CTNNB1 mRNA and protein during gonadal development to maturation of reproductive organs, we collected left and right gonads apart from mesonephric kidney of chicken embryos on embryonic day (E) 6, E9, E14, E18, as well as testes, oviduct and ovaries from 12-week-old and adult chickens and performed quantitative PCR, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemical analyses. In addition, localization of Sertoli cell markers such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), estrogen receptor alpha (ESR1), cyclin D1 (CCND1) and N-cadherin (CDH2) during testicular development was evaluated.

Results

Results of the present study showed that CTNNB1 mRNA and protein are expressed predominantly in the seminiferous cords on E6 to E14 in the male embryonic gonad, and are mainly localized to the medullary region of female embryonic gonads from E6 to E9. In addition, CTNNB1 mRNA and protein are abundant in the Sertoli cells in the testes and expressed predominantly in luminal epithelial cells of the oviduct, but not in the ovaries from 12-week-old and adult chickens. Concomitant with CTNNB1, AMH, ESR1, CCND1 and CDH2 were detected predominantly in the seminiferous cord of the medullary region of male gonads at E9 (after sex determination) and then maintained or decreased until hatching. Interestingly, AMH, ESR1, CCND1 and CDH2 were located in seminiferous tubules of the testes from 12-weeks-old chickens and ESR1, CCND1 and CDH2 were expressed predominantly in the Sertoli cells within seminiferous tubules of adult testes.

Conclusions

Collectively, these results revealed that CTNNB1 is present in gonads of both sexes during embryonic development and it may play essential roles in differentiation of Sertoli cells during formation of seminiferous tubules during development of the testes.
Interventions for supporting nurse retention in rural and remote areas: an umbrella review
Authors: Mbemba Gisèle , Gagnon Marie-Pierre , Paré Guy , Côté José
Published: September 2013

Context

Retention of nursing staff is a growing concern in many countries, especially in rural, remote or isolated regions, where it has major consequences on the accessibility of health services.

Purpose

This umbrella review aims to synthesize the current evidence on the effectiveness of interventions to promote nurse retention in rural or remote areas, and to present a taxonomy of potential strategies to improve nurse retention in those regions.

Methods

We conducted an overview of systematic reviews, including the following steps: exploring scientific literature through predetermined criteria and extracting relevant information by two independents reviewers. We used the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) criteria in order to assess the quality of the reports.

Findings

Of 517 screened publications, we included five reviews. Two reviews showed that financial-incentive programs have substantial evidence to improve the distribution of human resources for health. The other three reviews highlighted supportive relationships in nursing, information and communication technologies support and rural health career pathways as factors influencing nurse retention in rural and remote areas. Overall, the quality of the reviews was acceptable.

Conclusions

This overview provides a guide to orient future rural and remote nurse retention interventions. We distinguish four broad types of interventions: education and continuous professional development interventions, regulatory interventions, financial incentives, and personal and professional support. More knowledge is needed regarding the effectiveness of specific strategies to address the factors known to contribute to nurse retention in rural and remote areas. In order to ensure knowledge translation, retention strategies should be rigorously evaluated using appropriate designs.
Structure, morphology, and photoluminescence of porous Si nanowires: effect of different chemical treatments
Authors: Leontis Ioannis , Othonos Andreas , Nassiopoulou Androula G
Published: September 2013

The structure and light-emitting properties of Si nanowires (SiNWs) fabricated by a single-step metal-assisted chemical etching (MACE) process on highly boron-doped Si were investigated after different chemical treatments. The Si nanowires that result from the etching of a highly doped p-type Si wafer by MACE are fully porous, and as a result, they show intense photoluminescence (PL) at room temperature, the characteristics of which depend on the surface passivation of the Si nanocrystals composing the nanowires. SiNWs with a hydrogen-terminated nanostructured surface resulting from a chemical treatment with a hydrofluoric acid (HF) solution show red PL, the maximum of which is blueshifted when the samples are further chemically oxidized in a piranha solution. This blueshift of PL is attributed to localized states at the Si/SiO2 interface at the shell of Si nanocrystals composing the porous SiNWs, which induce an important pinning of the electronic bandgap of the Si material and are involved in the recombination mechanism. After a sequence of HF/piranha/HF treatment, the SiNWs are almost fully dissolved in the chemical solution, which is indicative of their fully porous structure, verified also by transmission electron microscopy investigations. It was also found that a continuous porous Si layer is formed underneath the SiNWs during the MACE process, the thickness of which increases with the increase of etching time. This supports the idea that porous Si formation precedes nanowire formation. The origin of this effect is the increased etching rate at sites with high dopant concentration in the highly doped Si material.
Prevalence of antibodies against Leptospira sp. in snakes, lizards and turtles in Slovenia
Authors: Lindtner-Knific Renata , Vergles-Rataj Aleksandra , Vlahović Ksenija , Zrimšek Petra , Dovč Alenka
Published: September 2013

Background

Leptospiral infections in poikilothermic (cold blooded) animals have received very little attention and the literature concerning natural infections of these animals is limited. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of leptospiral antibodies in reptiles, imported into Slovenia and intended to be pets in close contact with humans. A total of 297 reptiles (22 snakes, 210 lizards and 65 turtles) were tested for specific antibodies against serovars of Leptospira interrogans sensu stricto using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT). Live cultures of different serovars were used as antigens. MAT was performed according to standard procedures and the degree of reaction was interpreted by estimating the percentage of agglutinated leptospires. Samples showing titres of ≥ 50 against one or more serovars were considered as positive.

Results

Antibodies against seven pathogenic serovars of L. interrogans sensu stricto were detected in 46 of 297 reptiles. Among 22 snakes, specific antibodies against pathogenic serovars of three Leptospira species (L. interrogans, L. kirschneri and L. borgpetersenii) at titre levels from 1:50 to 1:400 were detected in 6 snakes. In 31 of 210 lizards, specific antibodies were found in titres from 1:50 to 1:1000 and, finally, among 65 turtles (terrapins and tortoises), 9 had specific antibodies at titre levels between 1:50 and 1:1600. Animals imported from non-EU countries showed significantly higher prevalence (25.0%; 95 confidence interval: 16.7–33.3%) than animals from EU member states (10.4%; confidence interval: 6.1–14.7%).

Conclusions

Reptiles may be considered as potential reservoirs of L. interrogans sensu stricto. Origin of the animals is a risk factor for presence of leptospiral antibodies, especially in lizards. Special attention should be focused on animals from non-EU member states.
Inter-observer reliability assessment of the Schatzker, AO/OTA and three-column classification of tibial plateau fractures
Authors: Zhu Yi , Hu Cheng-Fang , Yang Guang , Cheng Dong , Luo Cong-Feng
Published: September 2013

Background

The purpose of our study was to evaluate inter-observer reliability of the Three-Column classifications with conventional Schatzker and AO/OTA of Tibial Plateau Fractures.

Methods

50 cases involving all kinds of the fracture patterns were collected from 278 consecutive patients with tibial plateau fractures who were internal fixed in department of Orthopedics and Trauma III in Shanghai Sixth People’s Hospital. The series were arranged randomly, numbered 1 to 50. Four observers were chosen to classify these cases. Before the research, a classification training session was held to each observer. They were given as much time as they required evaluating the radiographs accurately and independently. The classification choices made at the first viewing were not available during the second viewing. The observers were not provided with any feedback after the first viewing. The kappa statistic was used to analyze the inter-observer reliability of the three fracture classification made by the four observers.

Results

The mean kappa values for inter-observer reliability regarding Schatzker classification was 0.567 (range: 0.513–0.589), representing “moderate agreement”. The mean kappa values for inter-observer reliability regarding AO/ASIF classification systems was 0.623 (range: 0.510–0.710) representing “substantial agreement”. The mean kappa values for inter-observer reliability regarding Three-Column classification systems was 0.766 (range: 0.706–0.890), representing “substantial agreement”.

Conclusion

Three-Column classification, which is dependent on the understanding of the fractures using CT scans as well as the 3D reconstruction can identity the posterior column fracture or fragment. It showed “substantial agreement” in the assessment of inter-observer reliability, higher than the conventional Schatzker and AO/OTA classifications. We finally conclude that Three-Column classification provides a higher agreement among different surgeons and could be popularized and widely practiced in other clinical centers.
Structural characterization of copia-type retrotransposons leads to insights into the marker development in a biofuel crop, Jatropha curcasL.
Authors: Alipour Atefeh , Tsuchimoto Suguru , Sakai Hiroe , Ohmido Nobuko , Fukui Kiichi
Published: September 2013

Background

Recently,Jatropha curcasL. has attracted worldwide attention for its potential as a source of biodiesel. However, most DNA markers have demonstrated high levels of genetic similarity among and within jatropha populations around the globe. Despite promising features ofcopia-type retrotransposons as ideal genetic tools for gene tagging, mutagenesis, and marker-assisted selection, they have not been characterized in the jatropha genome yet. Here, we examined the diversity, evolution, and genome-wide organization ofcopia-type retrotransposons in the Asian, African, and Mesoamerican accessions of jatropha, then introduced a retrotransposon-based marker for this biofuel crop.

Results

In total, 157 PCR fragments that were amplified using the degenerate primers for the reverse transcriptase (RT) domain ofcopia-type retroelements were sequenced and aligned to construct the neighbor-joining tree. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated that isolatedcopiaRT sequences were classified into ten families, which were then grouped into three lineages. An in-depth study of the jatropha genome for the RT sequences of each family led to the characterization of full consensus sequences of the jatrophacopia-type families. Estimated copy numbers of target sequences were largely different among families, as was presence of genes within 5 kb flanking regions for each family. Fivecopia-type families were as appealing candidates for the development of DNA marker systems. A candidate marker from familyJc7was particularly capable of detecting genetic variation among different jatropha accessions. Fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH) to metaphase chromosomes reveals thatcopia-type retrotransposons are scattered across chromosomes mainly located in the distal part regions.

Conclusion

This is the first report on genome-wide analysis and the cytogenetic mapping ofcopia-type retrotransposons of jatropha, leading to the discovery of families bearing high potential as DNA markers. Distinct dynamics of individualcopia-type families, feasibility of a retrotransposon-based insertion polymorphism marker system in examining genetic variability, and approaches for the development of breeding strategies in jatropha usingcopia-type retrotransposons are discussed.
Analysis of the gut microbiota of walking sticks (Phasmatodea)
Authors: Shelomi Matan , Lo Wen-Sui , Kimsey Lynn S , Kuo Chih-Horng
Published: September 2013

Background

Little is known about the Phasmatodea gut microbial community, including whether phasmids have symbiotic bacteria aiding in their digestion. While symbionts are near ubiquitous in herbivorous insects, the Phasmatodea’s distinctively thin body shape precludes the gut enlargements needed for microbial fermentation. High-throughput sequencing was used to characterize the entire microbiota of the fat bodies, salivary glands, and anterior and posterior midguts of two species of walking stick.

Results

Most bacterial sequences belonged to a strain of Spiroplasma (Tenericutes) found primarily in the posterior midgut of the parthenogenetic species Ramulus artemis (Phasmatidae). Beyond this, no significant differences were found between the R. artemis midgut sections or between that species and Peruphasma schultei (Pseudophasmatidae). Histological analysis further indicated a lack of bacteriocytes.

Conclusions

Phasmids are unlikely to depend on bacteria for digestion, suggesting they produce enzymes endogenously that most other herbivorous insects obtain from symbionts. This conclusion matches predictions based on phasmid anatomy. The role of Spiroplasma in insects warrants further study.
Cause-specific telomere factors deregulation in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: El Idrissi Manale , Hervieu Valérie , Merle Philippe , Mortreux Franck , Wattel Eric
Published: September 2013

Background

Among the numerous genetic defects associated with hepatocarcinogenesis, telomere abnormalities appear to play a role both in tumor promotion and maintenance. Telomeres, the chromosome extremities, are protected by specific proteins, the shelterin complex and by additional factors. Besides telomerase dysregulation, expression changes of these telomere factors have been observed in cancers.

Methods

Here, we tested the hypothesis that such dysregulation might occur in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with specific patterns depending on the cause of HCC. We compared telomere length, telomerase activity (TA), hTERT and telomere genes expression using PCR and Western-blot analyses between non-cirrhotic liver, peritumoral cirrhotic tissue (40 samples) and cancerous tissue (40 samples) derived from 40 patients with HBV-, HCV-, or alcohol-related HCC.

Results

Alterations in TA, hTERT expression and telomere length between non-cirrhotic, cirrhotic, and tumor samples were not significantly influenced by the cause of HCC. In contrast, the expression pattern of hTR, shelterin, and non-shelterin telomere protective factors clearly distinguished the 3 causes of cirrhosis and HCC. For patients with HBV diseased liver, when compared with non-cirrhotic liver, the cirrhotic tissue underexpressed all shelterin and all but HMRE11A and RAD50 non-shelterin telomere factors. For HCV the expression level of POT1, RAP1, Ku80, and RAD50 was higher in cirrhotic than in non-cirrhotic liver samples without evidence for significant transcriptional change for the remaining genes. For alcohol-related liver diseases, the expression level of POT1, RAP1, TIN2, hMRE11A, hMRE11B, Ku70, Ku80, RAD50, TANK1, and PINX1 was higher in cirrhotic than in non-cirrhotic liver samples. For the 3 causes of HCC, there was no significant change in shelterin and non-shelterin gene expression between cirrhosis and HCC samples.

Conclusions

These results validate our hypotheses and demonstrate that cirrhosis and HCC add-up numerous telomere dysfunctions including numerous cause-specific changes that appear to occur early during the course of the disease.
Comparative evaluation of rumen metagenome community using qPCR and MG-RAST
Authors: Nathani Neelam M , Patel Amrutlal K , Dhamannapatil Prakash S , Kothari Ramesh K , Singh Krishna M , Joshi Chaitanya G
Published: September 2013

Microbial profiling of metagenome communities have been studied extensively using MG-RAST and other related metagenome annotation databases. Although, database based taxonomic profiling provides snapshots of the metagenome architecture, their reliability needs to be validated through more accurate methods. Here, we performed qPCR based absolute quantitation of selected rumen microbes in the liquid and solid fraction of the rumen fluid of river buffalo adapted to varying proportion of concentrate to green or dry roughages and compared with the MG-RAST based annotation of the metagenomes sequences of 16S r-DNA amplicons and high throughput shotgun sequencing. Animals were adapted to roughage-to-concentrate ratio in the proportion of 50:50, 75:25 and 100:00, respectively for six weeks. At the end of each treatment, rumen fluid was collected at 3 h post feeding. qPCR revealed that the relative abundance of Prevotella bryantii was higher, followed by the two cellulolytic bacteria Fibrobacter succinogens and Ruminococcus flavefaciens that accounted up to 1.33% and 0.78% of the total rumen bacteria, respectively. While, Selenomonas ruminantium and archaea Methanomicrobiales were lower in microbial population in the rumen of buffalo. There was no statistically significant difference between the enumerations shown by qPCR and analysis of the shotgun sequencing data by MG-RAST except for Prevotella. These results indicate the variations in abundance of different microbial species in buffalo rumen under varied feeding regimes as well as in different fractions of rumen liquor, i.e. solid and the liquid. The results also present the reliability of shotgun sequencing to describe metagenome and analysis/annotation by MG-RAST.
Comparison of survival time between two types of orthodontic fixed retainer: a prospective randomized clinical trial
Authors: Salehi Parisa , Zarif Najafi Hooman , Roeinpeikar Seyyed Mehdi
Published: September 2013

Background

The aim of this prospective clinical study was to compare the mean durability and the failure rates of two types of orthodontic retainers.

Methods

Orthodontic patients (142) aged between 14 and 28 years were recruited in this study. The polyethylene woven ribbon (Ribbond, Seattle, WA, USA) retainer was compared with a 0.0175-in flexible spiral wire (Respond, Ormco, Glendora, CA, USA) retainer. When treatment was completed, the retainers were bonded from canine to canine in the maxillary and the mandibular arches of the participants. In the follow-up visits, the patients were re-evaluated every 3 months over a period of 18 months. The time taken for the retainers to remain without any fracture was appraised. Kaplan-Meier analysis and the logrank test were employed to identify significant differences in the survival functions between the groups. The rates of the retainers' failure between the groups were analyzed using Chi-square test.

Results

It was revealed that the mean survival of the flexible spiral wire retainer was 15.34 ± 0.47 and 15.60 ± 0.42 months in the maxillary and mandibular arches, respectively. The mean survival of the ribbon retainer was 13.95 ± 0.55 and 14.26 ± 0.57 months in the maxillary and mandibular arches, respectively. Ribbon retainers showed a failure rate of 50% in the maxillary and 42.6% in the mandibular arches. Flexible spiral retainers showed a failure rate of 36.5% in the maxillary and 37.8% in the mandibular arches. The differences were not statistically significant. Regarding the evaluation period, the differences had limited clinical significance.

Conclusion

The mean survival time and the failure rates of the polyethylene woven ribbon retainer were comparable to the flexible spiral wire retainer during the 18 months after orthodontic treatment.
Direct Functionalization of Aromatic Rings on Platinum-loaded Titanium Oxide Photocatalyst
Authors: Yuzawa Hayato , Yoshida Hisao
Published: September 2013

Organic syntheses by using TiO2 photocatalysts have been extensively studied in view of green and sustainable chemistry. This highlight review shows our recent studies on photocatalytic direct functionalization of aromatic rings, i.e., aromatic ring hydroxylation with H2O and aromatic ring amination with aqueous NH3 on Pt-loaded TiO2 photocatalysts. Both reactions involve two key steps: one is an activation of a rather stable molecule (H2O or NH3) by a photoexcited hole on the TiO2 surface to produce its radical species, and the other is an aromatic substitution by the radical species through an addition–elimination mechanism. Interestingly, the radical species produced from H2O (surface oxygen radical or hydroxyl radical) is electrophilic while that produced from NH3 (amide radical) is electroneutral. These properties determine the regioselectivity in the functionalization of substituted benzene.
Hydrogen-transfer Oxidation of Primary Alcohols Catalyzed by Iridium Complexes Bearing a Functional Pyridonate Ligand Using Isopropenyl Acetate as a Hydrogen Acceptor
Authors: Fujita Ken-ichi , Uejima Takehisa , Yamaguchi Ryohei
Published: September 2013

A new catalytic system for the hydrogen-transfer oxidation of alcohols catalyzed by iridium complexes bearing a functional pyridonate ligand has been developed. By using isopropenyl acetate as a hydrogen acceptor, a variety of primary alcohols were efficiently converted to the corresponding aldehydes in moderate to excellent yields.
Correlation between miRNA-targeted-gene promoter methylation and miRNA regulation of target genes
Authors: Taguchi Y-h
Published: September 2013

Background miRNA regulation of target genes and promoter methylation are known to be the primary mechanisms underlying the epigenetic regulation of gene expression. However, how these two processes cooperatively regulate gene expression has not been extensively studied.

Methods Gene expression and promoter methylation profiles of 270 distinct human cell lines were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus. P-values that describe both miRNA-targeted-gene promoter methylation and miRNA regulation of target genes were computed using the MiRaGE method proposed recently by the author.

Results Significant changes in promoter methylation were associated with miRNA targeting. It was also found that miRNA-targeted-gene promoter hypomethylation was related to differential target gene expression; the genes with miRNA-targeted-gene promoter hypomethylation were downregulated during cell senescence and upregulated during cellular differentiation. Promoter hypomethylation was especially enhanced for genes targeted by miR-548 miRNAs, which are non-conserved, primate-specific miRNAs that are typically expressed at lower levels than the frequently investigated conserved miRNAs. miRNA-targeted-gene promoter methylation may also be related to the seed region features of miRNA.

Conclusions It was found that promoter methylation was correlated to miRNA targeting. Furthermore, miRNA-targeted-gene promoter hypomethylation was especially enhanced in promoters of genes targeted by miRNAs that are not strongly expressed (e.g., miR-548 miRNAs) and was suggested to be highly related to some seed region features of miRNAs.
Application of the paediatric throat disorders outcome test (T-14) for tonsillectomy and adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Konieczny K , Biggs TC , Caldera S
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The T-14 questionnaire is a validated patient reported outcome measure (PROM) used to assess the value of paediatric tonsillectomy from the patient’s perspective. Tonsillectomy is a procedure under threat. As such, this study aimed to provide further evidence supporting the role of tonsillectomy in the management of recurrent tonsillitis and obstructive sleep apnoea.

Methods

A prospective uncontrolled observational study was undertaken examining 54 paediatric patients undergoing tonsillectomy at our institution. Parents of children having surgery were invited to complete a T-14 questionnaire preoperatively as well as at three and six months postoperatively.

Results

The questionnaire was completed for 52 of the 54 patients preoperatively as well as at 3 and 6 months postoperatively (96% response rate). The mean difference between the preoperative and six-month T-14 score was 31.8 (p<0.0001). T-14 scores at three months were also significantly improved compared with those taken preoperatively (mean difference: 29.9, p<0.0001).

Conclusions

This is the first study in the literature to assess T-14 questionnaires at three and six months following paediatric tonsillectomy, providing evidence of the early benefit on PROMs. Tonsillectomy is the most common surgical procedure performed in the UK, and it is regarded highly by patients and otolaryngologists alike. This study provides significant evidence that tonsillectomy improves PROMs, thereby demonstrating its ongoing clinical value as a funded National Health Service procedure.
Absence of the genicular arterial anastomosis as generally depicted in textbooks
Authors: Sabalbal M , Johnson M , McAlister V
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Textbook representations of the genicular arterial anastomosis show a large direct communication between the descending branch of the lateral circumflex femoral artery (DBLCFA) and a genicular branch of the popliteal artery but this is not compatible with clinical experience. The aim of this study was to determine whether the arterial anastomosis at the knee is sufficient, in the event of traumatic disruption of the superficial femoral artery, to infuse protective agents or to place a stent to restore flow to the lower leg.

Methods

Dissection of ten cadaveric lower limbs was performed to photograph the arterial anatomy from the inguinal ligament to the tibial tubercle. Anastomosis with branches of the popliteal artery was classified as: ‘direct communication’, ‘approaching communication’ or ‘no evident communication’.

Results

A constant descending artery in the lateral thigh (LDAT) was found to have five types of origin: Type 1 (2/10 limbs) involved the lateral circumflex femoral branch of the femoral artery, Type 2 (3/10 limbs) the lateral circumflex femoral branch of the profunda femoris artery, Type 3 (1/10 limbs) the femoral artery, Type 4 (3/10 limbs) the superficial femoral artery and Type 5 (2/10 limbs) the profunda femoris artery. In one limb, there were two descending arteries (Types 4 and 5). Collateral circulation at the knee was also variable: direct communicating vessels (3/10 limbs); approaching vessels with possible communication via capillaries (5/10 limbs); no evident communication (2/10 limbs). Communicating vessels, if present, are too small to provide immediate collateral circulation.

Conclusions

Modern representations of the genicular arterial anastomosis are inaccurate, derived commonly from an idealised image that first appeared Gray’s Anatomy in 1910. The afferent vessel is not the DBLCFA. The majority of subjects have the potential to recruit collateral circulation via the LDAT following gradual obstruction to normal arterial flow, which may be important if the LDAT is removed for bypass or flap surgery. A direct communication is rarely present and is never as robust as generally depicted in textbooks.
Obstructed hepatic flexure contained in a right-sided inguinoscrotal hernia resulting in caecal perforation
Authors: Skelly BL , Neill AK
Published: September 2013

Inguinal hernia often presents as an emergency with obstruction and subsequent strangulation. We report a unique case where an inguinoscrotal sliding type hernia contained the entire hepatic flexure as its lead point, resulting in acute colonic obstruction and caecal wall perforation.
NICE thromboprophylaxis guidelines are not associated with increased pericardial effusion after surgery of the proximal thoracic aorta
Authors: Rahman IA , Hussain A , Davies A , Bryan AJ
Published: September 2013

Introduction

In 2010 the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) released guidelines on venous thromboembolism. Strategy focused on risk assessment, antiembolic stockings, sequential compression devices, subcutaneous high dose enoxaparin (40mg), early mobilisation and hydration. The 40mg enoxaparin dose over the previous 20mg regimen was worrisome, and its effect on pericardial effusion rates and mortality in proximal aortic surgery was investigated.

Methods

Proximal aortic reconstructions performed between December 2008 and April 2011 were identified from prospectively collected data in a tertiary centre database. Retrospective analysis of patient notes was performed. Proximal aortic surgery patients were categorised as low dose (20mg) enoxaparin and high dose (40mg) enoxaparin, and compared for confounding variables. In-hospital, early and one-year readmission rates for pericardial effusion were ascertained from echocardiography reports. The primary outcome was total pericardial effusion rate. Secondary outcomes consisted of 30-day and 1-year mortality.

Results

A total of 198 patients underwent proximal thoracic aortic surgery. Nine patients were excluded due to early postoperative death (n=5) and missing patient records (n=4). This left 189 cases for analysis. There were 93 patients in the low dose group and 96 in the high dose group. Groups were comparable for age, cardiopulmonary bypass time, aortic cross-clamp time, postoperative warfarin and antiplatelet agents. Pericardial effusion rates up to one year were comparable (low dose 19% vs high dose 21%). Thirty-day mortality was lower in the low dose group (0 vs 3 deaths). There were four deaths up to one year but these were not attributable to increased enoxaparin.

Conclusions

Increased perioperative thromboprophylaxis dosage does not increase pericardial effusion rates or mortality in proximal aortic surgery.
Indications and early to mid-term results of ulnar head replacement
Authors: Warwick D , Shyamalan G , Balabanidou E
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The aim of this study was to explore the indications and show the early to mid-term results of ulnar head replacement for the treatment of pathological conditions of the distal radioulnar joint.

Methods

Our study group comprised 52 patients with a mean age of 64 years who had 56 ulnar head replacements. Seven were implanted to salvage an unstable deletive procedure; the rest were for primary treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and trauma. Concomitant procedures along with the ulnar head replacement included wrist arthrodesis, joint replacement and tendon transfers.

Results

The follow-up duration ranged from 1 year to 11 years (mean: 60 months, median: 60 months). In almost all of the patients, pain improved with a median visual analogue scale score of 2 (mean: 2.2, range: 0–8) and a median DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) score of 12.5 (mean: 17.9, range: 0–56). Of the 52 patients, 47 reported they would have the same procedure again.

Conclusions

Ulnar head replacement appears to be a reliable and effective procedure solving several pathological problems of the distal radioulnar joint. We present a large patient group with a short to medium-term follow-up duration.
Phage Display-Derived Binders Able to Distinguish Listeria monocytogenes from Other Listeria Species
Authors: McIvor Mary Josephine , Karoonuthaisiri Nitsara , Charlermroj Ratthaphol , Stewart Linda D. , Elliott Christopher T. , Grant Irene R.
Published: September 2013

The objective of this study was to produce phage display-derived binders with the ability to distinguish Listeria monocytogenes from other Listeria spp., which may have potential utility to enhance detection of Listeria monocytogenes. To obtain binders with the desired binding specificity a series of surface and solution phage-display biopannings were performed. Initially, three rounds of surface biopanning against gamma-irradiated L. monocytogenes serovar 4b cells were performed followed by an additional surface biopanning round against L. monocytogenes 4b which included prior subtraction biopanning against gamma-irradiated L. innocua cells. In an attempt to further enhance binder specificity for L. monocytogenes 4b two rounds of solution biopanning were performed, both rounds included initial subtraction solution biopanning against L. innocua. Subsequent evaluations were performed on the phage clones by phage binding ELISA. All phage clones tested from the second round of solution biopanning had higher specificity for L. monocytogenes 4b than for L. innocua and three other foodborne pathogens (Salmonella spp., Escherichia coli and Campylobacter jejuni). Further evaluation with five other Listeria spp. revealed that one phage clone in particular, expressing peptide GRIADLPPLKPN, was highly specific for L. monocytogenes with at least 43-fold more binding capability to L. monocytogenes 4b than to any other Listeria sp. This proof-of-principle study demonstrates how a combination of surface, solution and subtractive biopanning was used to maximise binder specificity. L. monocytogenes-specific binders were obtained which could have potential application in novel detection tests for L. monocytogenes, benefiting both the food and medical industries.