bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex and gender issues in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Harbo Hanne F. , Gold Ralf , Tintoré Mar
Published: May 2013

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is universally found to be more prevalent in women than men. This has led to extensive studies of differences in the immune system or nervous system between women and men, which might be caused by the effects of gonadal hormones, genetic differences, and different environmental exposures and modern lifestyle in men and women. We review the effects of sex and gender from a genetic, immunological and clinical point of view. We discuss the effects of sex on the clinical expression of MS and responses to therapy, as well as issues concerning pregnancy.
Deliver us from definitions: A fresh way of looking at public relations
Authors: Galloway Christopher James
Published: May 2013

Public relations (PR) is caught up in a seemingly endless quest to define its identity through locating the essence of its practice. This article not only questions the value of the quest but also offers an alternative ‘apophatic’ path – one based on what may not be said about the profession. This way of building understanding through negation is found in various religious traditions and also in the works of some modern philosophers and poets. Rather than adding to the multiple efforts to define PR’s essence – most recently by the Public Relations Society of America – an apophatic approach could help clear the profession’s field of vision by removing some accumulated definitional debris. In this way, it could serve as an alternative strategy to assist those both inside and outside the profession to better describe what PR does.
Public relations and neo-institutional theory
Authors: Fredriksson Magnus , Pallas Josef , Wehmeier Stefan
Published: May 2013

The article introduces a special section on public relations and neo-institutional theory where we seek to enrich research on public relations by using neo-institutional theory to describe, explain and understand the activities, processes and dynamics of the practice. By this we open up for a wider understanding of public relations, its preconditions, its performances and its consequences for shaping the social.

The article starts with a discussion on earlier work in the tradition of neo-institutional theory where a lot of attention was paid to the governing mechanisms of institutions and how they control the behavior of actors. A perspective leading to some fundamental challenges where the primary objection was the over-determinism neo-institutional researchers ascribed to institutions. Taking these objectives seriously we follow more recent developments and present three streams of research – institutional logics, translation and institutional work – where agency is given a more profound role. We argue for how an employment of the logic can help us gain a more insightful understanding of public relations and communication as an institutional practice; how public relations functions as a carrier and translator of institutions; and how public relations is used to challenge and re-shape the foundations on which social actors interact with each other.

We argue that public relations could be analyzed as an institutionalized practice with certain set of governing mechanisms including taken-for-granted activities, rules, norms and ideas. One argument for a neo-institutional perspective is the importance it gives communication in the understanding of organizations, institutions and society. Another argument is recent developments where public relations and other forms of organizational communication have been examined as a major dimension of organizing in some of the more profound works among neo-institutional theorists.
Cerebral microbleeds: A new dilemma in stroke medicine
Authors: Kakar Puneet , Charidimou Andreas , Werring David J
Published: May 2013

Cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) are an increasingly common neuroimaging finding in the context of ageing, cerebrovascular disease and dementia, with potentially important clinical relevance. Perhaps the most pressing clinical question is whether CMBs are associated with a clinically important increase in the risk of intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH), the most feared complication in patients treated with thrombolytic or antithrombotic (antiplatelet and anticoagulant) drugs. This review will summarize the evidence available regarding CMBs as an indicator of future ICH risk in stroke medicine clinical practice.
Reproducibility of pain manikins: a comparison of paper versus online questionnaires
Authors: Jones Gareth T , Kyabaggu Ramona , Marais Debbi , Macfarlane Gary J
Published: May 2013

Background

In epidemiological studies, pain location is often collected by paper questionnaire using blank body manikins, onto which participants shade the location of their pain(s). However, it is unknown how reliable these will transfer to online questionnaires. The aim of the current study was to determine agreement between online- and paper-based completion of pain manikins.

Methods

A total of 264 children, aged 15–18 years, completed both an online and a paper questionnaire. Participants were asked to identify the location of their pain by highlighting predefined body areas on a manikin (online) or by shading a blank version of the manikin (paper). The difference in the prevalence of 12 regional/widespread pain conditions was determined, and agreement between online and paper questionnaires was assessed using prevalence- and bias-adjusted kappa (PABAK).

Results

For the majority of pain conditions, prevalence was higher when ascertained by paper questionnaire. However, for the most part, the difference in prevalence was modest (range: −1.1 to 5.7%) the exceptions being hip/thigh pain (difference: 10.6%) and upper back pain (difference: 14.8%). For most pain locations, there was good or very good agreement between paper and online manikins (PABAK range: 0.61 to 0.88). However, identification of pain in the hip/thigh and in the upper back had poorer agreement (PABAK: 0.49 and 0.29, respectively).

Conclusions

This is the first study to examine the reproducibility of body manikins on different media, in a population-based survey. We have shown that online manikins can be used to capture data on pain location in a manner satisfactorily comparable to paper questionnaires.
Describing Adolescent Breastfeeding Environments Through Focus Groups in an Urban Community
Authors: Woods Nikki Keene , Chesser Amy K. , Wipperman Jennifer
Published: May 2013

Purpose: Breastfeeding is a potential solution to improve health outcomes for adolescent mothers and infants. Adolescence is a risk factor for low breastfeeding rates and is associated with a higher risk for perinatal complication. This study investigated facilitators and barriers to adolescent breastfeeding initiation and duration in an urban setting. Methods: Four, 1-hour focus groups were conducted. Twenty-nine (N = 29) adolescent mothers and pregnant adolescents participated and described attitudes toward breastfeeding, attitudes among family and friends, current knowledge, and barriers and facilitators for breastfeeding. Results: Four themes emerged, including the following: behavioral histories of breastfeeding, community assets, social support, and barriers. Participants identified positive histories and community resources such as local hospitals and social services as facilitators. Lifestyle, independence, lack of support from family and primary care providers, social stigma/embarrassment, and difficulty with breastfeeding techniques were described as barriers. Conclusion: A comprehensive and integrated primary care and public health community effort is needed to support and improve adolescent breastfeeding. Further examination of integrated interventions focused on adolescent breastfeeding behaviors through an environmental approach is needed.
Evaluation of Fecal Immunochemical Tests for Colorectal Cancer Screening
Authors: Daly Jeanette M. , Bay Camden P. , Levy Barcey T.
Published: May 2013

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) screening reduces the mortality due to CRC. It is important for health care providers to be aware of the variation in the products available for CRC screening. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to summarize the accuracy of results of individual fecal immunochemical test (FIT) products across pathology proficiency testing programs. Methods: Secondary data analysis of proficiency testing programs’ FIT results. Results: Four of 7 proficiency testing program’s FIT evaluations were obtained for a 2-year period. Fourteen unique FIT brands were evaluated by at least 1 of the 4 proficiency testing programs. Five of the products performed similarly with sensitivities ranging from 98.1% to 98.8% and specificities from 98.1% to 99.6%. Ninety-three percent of the FIT tests completed were manual Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments–waived FITs. Conclusions: About two thirds of the commonly used FIT products performed acceptably on spiked samples of human hemoglobin. However, some had low sensitivity and specificity and probably should not be used for population-based or other screening. Further investigation to determine appropriate, reliable products for fecal occult blood testing is warranted.
On strong orthogonality and strictly convex normed linear spaces
Authors: Paul Kallol , Sain Debmalya , Jha Kanhaiya
Published: May 2013

We introduce the notion of a strongly orthogonal set relative to an element in the sense of Birkhoff-James in a normed linear space to find a necessary and sufficient condition for an element x of the unit sphere

S
X

to be an exposed point of the unit ball

B
X

. We then prove that a normed linear space is strictly convex iff for each element x of the unit sphere, there exists a bounded linear operator A on X which attains its norm only at the points of the form λx with

λ
∈

S
K

.

MSC:46B20, 47A30.
Effects of lifestyle education program for type 2 diabetes patients in clinics: a cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Adachi Misa , Yamaoka Kazue , Watanabe Mariko , Nishikawa Masako , Kobayashi Itsuro , Hida Eisuke , Tango Toshiro
Published: May 2013

Background

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is rising worldwide, as has been the global mean fasting plasma glucose level. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured individual-based lifestyle education (SILE) program to reduce the hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) level in type 2 diabetes patients delivered by registered dietitians in primary care clinical settings.

Methods

This was a 6-month prospective cluster randomized controlled trial in a primary care setting with randomization at the practice level. Twenty general practitioners in 20 clinics in Kanagawa prefecture, Japan, were involved. 193 adults (51% men, mean age 61.3 years) with type 2 diabetes and HbA1c ≥6.5% who received treatment in medical clinics were the participants. A SILE program was implemented through 4 sessions with trained registered dietitians during the 6-month study period. Results were compared with those of a control group who received usual care. The primary endpoint was the change in HbA1c levels at 6 months from baseline. Secondary endpoints were the changes at 6 months from baseline in fasting plasma glucose, lipid profile, blood pressure, BMI, energy, and nutrient intakes (whole day and each meal). Intention-to-treat analysis was conducted. Mixed-effects linear models were used to examine the effects of the treatment.

Results

The mean change at 6 months from baseline in HbA1c was a 0.7% decrease in the intervention group (n = 100) and a 0.2% decrease in the control group (n = 93) (difference −0.5%, 95%CI: -0.2% to −0.8%, p = 0.004). After adjusting for baseline values and other factors, the difference was still significant (p = 0.003 ~ 0.011). The intervention group had a significantly greater decrease in mean energy intake at dinner compared with the control group and a greater increase in mean vegetable intake for the whole day, breakfast, and lunch as shown in crude and adjusted models. A tendency toward improvement was observed in the other secondary endpoints but the improvement was not statistically significant. These results were confirmed by several sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

The SILE program that was provided in primary care settings for patients with type 2 diabetes resulted in greater improvement in HbA1c levels than usual diabetes care and education.

Trial registration

http://UMIN000004049
A structural role for the PHP domain in E. coli DNA polymerase III
Authors: Barros Tiago , Guenther Joel , Kelch Brian , Anaya Jordan , Prabhakar Arjun , O’Donnell Mike , Kuriyan John , Lamers Meindert H
Published: May 2013

Background

In addition to the core catalytic machinery, bacterial replicative DNA polymerases contain a Polymerase and Histidinol Phosphatase (PHP) domain whose function is not entirely understood. The PHP domains of some bacterial replicases are active metal-dependent nucleases that may play a role in proofreading. In E. coli DNA polymerase III, however, the PHP domain has lost several metal-coordinating residues and is likely to be catalytically inactive.

Results

Genomic searches show that the loss of metal-coordinating residues in polymerase PHP domains is likely to have coevolved with the presence of a separate proofreading exonuclease that works with the polymerase. Although the E. coli Pol III PHP domain has lost metal-coordinating residues, the structure of the domain has been conserved to a remarkable degree when compared to that of metal-binding PHP domains. This is demonstrated by our ability to restore metal binding with only three point mutations, as confirmed by the metal-bound crystal structure of this mutant determined at 2.9 Å resolution. We also show that Pol III, a large multi-domain protein, unfolds cooperatively and that mutations in the degenerate metal-binding site of the PHP domain decrease the overall stability of Pol III and reduce its activity.

Conclusions

While the presence of a PHP domain in replicative bacterial polymerases is strictly conserved, its ability to coordinate metals and to perform proofreading exonuclease activity is not, suggesting additional non-enzymatic roles for the domain. Our results show that the PHP domain is a major structural element in Pol III and its integrity modulates both the stability and activity of the polymerase.
Protective effect of genistein on radiation-induced intestinal injury in tumor bearing mice
Authors: Son Tae Gen , Gong Eun Ji , Bae Min Ji , Kim Sung Dae , Heo Kyu , Moon Changjong , Yang Kwangmo , Kim Joong Sun
Published: May 2013

Background

Radiation therapy is the most widely used treatment for cancer, but it causes the side effect of mucositis due to intestinal damage. We examined the protective effect of genistein in tumor-bearing mice after abdominal irradiation by evaluation of apoptosis and intestinal morphological changes.

Methods

Mouse colon cancer CT26 cells were subcutaneously injected at the flank of BALB/c mice to generate tumors. The tumor-bearing mice were treated with abdominal radiation at 5 and 10 Gy, and with genistein at 200 mg/kg body weight per day for 1 d before radiation. The changes in intestinal histology were evaluated 12 h and 3.5 d after irradiation. To assess the effect of the combination treatment on the cancer growth, the tumor volume was determined at sacrifice before tumor overgrowth occurred.

Results

Genistein significantly decreased the number of apoptotic nuclei compared with that in the irradiation group 12 h after 5 Gy irradiation. Evaluation of histological changes showed that genistein ameliorated intestinal morphological changes such as decreased crypt survival, villus shortening, and increased length of the basal lamina 3.5 d after 10 Gy irradiation. Moreover, the genistein-treated group exhibited more Ki-67-positive proliferating cells in the jejunum than the irradiated control group, and crypt depths were greater in the genistein-treated group than in the irradiated control group. The mean weight of the CT26 tumors was reduced in the group treated with genistein and radiation compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Genistein had a protective effect on intestinal damage induced by irradiation and delayed tumor growth. These results suggest that genistein is a useful candidate for preventing radiotherapy-induced intestinal damage in cancer patients.
A study of TiO2/carbon black composition as counter electrode materials for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Lim Jeongmin , Ryu Sang Yeoul , Kim Jeonghun , Jun Yongseok
Published: May 2013

This study describes a systematic approach of TiO2/carbon black nanoparticles with respect to the loading amount in order to optimize the catalytic ability of triiodide reduction for dye-sensitized solar cells. In particular, the cell using an optimized TiO2 and carbon black electrode presents an energy conversion efficiency of 7.4% with a 5:1 ratio of a 40-nm TiO2 to carbon black. Based on the electrochemical analysis, the charge-transfer resistance of the carbon counter electrode changed based on the carbon black powder content. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry study show lower resistance compared to the Pt counter electrode. The obtained nanostructures and photo electrochemical study were characterized.
Mining for hemicellulases in the fungus-growing termite Pseudacanthotermes militaris using functional metagenomics
Authors: Bastien Géraldine , Arnal Grégory , Bozonnet Sophie , Laguerre Sandrine , Ferreira Fernando , Fauré Régis , Henrissat Bernard , Lefèvre Fabrice , Robe Patrick , Bouchez Olivier , Noirot Céline , Dumon Claire , O’Donohue Michael
Published: May 2013

Background

The metagenomic analysis of gut microbiomes has emerged as a powerful strategy for the identification of biomass-degrading enzymes, which will be no doubt useful for the development of advanced biorefining processes. In the present study, we have performed a functional metagenomic analysis on comb and gut microbiomes associated with the fungus-growing termite, Pseudacanthotermes militaris.

Results

Using whole termite abdomens and fungal-comb material respectively, two fosmid-based metagenomic libraries were created and screened for the presence of xylan-degrading enzymes. This revealed 101 positive clones, corresponding to an extremely high global hit rate of 0.49%. Many clones displayed either β-d-xylosidase (EC 3.2.1.37) or α-l-arabinofuranosidase (EC 3.2.1.55) activity, while others displayed the ability to degrade AZCL-xylan or AZCL-β-(1,3)-β-(1,4)-glucan. Using secondary screening it was possible to pinpoint clones of interest that were used to prepare fosmid DNA. Sequencing of fosmid DNA generated 1.46 Mbp of sequence data, and bioinformatics analysis revealed 63 sequences encoding putative carbohydrate-active enzymes, with many of these forming parts of sequence clusters, probably having carbohydrate degradation and metabolic functions. Taxonomic assignment of the different sequences revealed that Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes were predominant phyla in the gut sample, while microbial diversity in the comb sample resembled that of typical soil samples. Cloning and expression in E. coli of six enzyme candidates identified in the libraries provided access to individual enzyme activities, which all proved to be coherent with the primary and secondary functional screens.

Conclusions

This study shows that the gut microbiome of P. militaris possesses the potential to degrade biomass components, such as arabinoxylans and arabinans. Moreover, the data presented suggests that prokaryotic microorganisms present in the comb could also play a part in the degradation of biomass within the termite mound, although further investigation will be needed to clarify the complex synergies that might exist between the different microbiomes that constitute the termitosphere of fungus-growing termites. This study exemplifies the power of functional metagenomics for the discovery of biomass-active enzymes and has provided a collection of potentially interesting biocatalysts for further study.
Acute 5-HT7 receptor activation increases NMDA-evoked currents and differentially alters NMDA receptor subunit phosphorylation and trafficking in hippocampal neurons
Authors: Vasefi Maryam S , Yang Kai , Li Jerry , Kruk Jeff S , Heikkila John J , Jackson Michael F , MacDonald John F , Beazely Michael A
Published: May 2013

Background

N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors are regulated by several G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) as well as receptor tyrosine kinases. Serotonin (5-HT) type 7 receptors are expressed throughout the brain including the thalamus and hippocampus. Long-term (2–24 h) activation of 5-HT7 receptors promotes the expression of neuroprotective growth factor receptors, including the platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) β receptors which can protect neurons against NMDA-induced neurotoxicity.

Results

In contrast to long-term activation of 5-HT7 receptors, acute (5 min) treatment of isolated hippocampal neurons with the 5-HT7 receptor agonist 5-carboxamidotryptamine (5-CT) enhances NMDA-evoked peak currents and this increase in peak currents is blocked by the 5-HT7 receptor antagonist, SB 269970. In hippocampal slices, acute 5-HT7 receptor activation increases NR1 NMDA receptor subunit phosphorylation and differentially alters the phosphorylation state of the NR2B and NR2A subunits. NMDA receptor subunit cell surface expression is also differentially altered by 5-HT7 receptor agonists: NR2B cell surface expression is decreased whereas NR1 and NR2A surface expression are not significantly altered.

Conclusions

In contrast to the negative regulatory effects of long-term activation of 5-HT7 receptors on NMDA receptor signaling, acute activation of 5-HT7 receptors promotes NMDA receptor activity. These findings highlight the potential for temporally differential regulation of NMDA receptors by the 5-HT7 receptor.
Mediating factors of coping process in parents of children with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Oskouie Fatemeh , Mehrdad Neda , Ebrahimi Hossein
Published: May 2013

Background

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition for children and their parents, the management for which imposes a vast responsibility. This study explores the mediating factors that affect Iranian parents’ coping processes with their children’s type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Research was conducted using the grounded theory method. Participants were selected purposefully, and we continued with theoretical sampling. Constant comparative analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

The mediating factors of the parental coping process with their child’s diabetes consist of the child’s cooperation, crises and experiences, economic challenges, and parental participation in care.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the necessity of well-informed nurses with insightful understanding of the mediating factors in parental coping with juvenile diabetes in order to meet the particular needs of this group.
Total restrained domination in graphs of diameter 2 or 3
Authors: Tahmasbzadehbaee Zahra , Nandappa D Soner , Ahangar Hossein Abdollahzadeh , Mojdeh Doost Ali , Zhao Yancai
Published: May 2013

For a given connected graph G=(V,E), a set

D

tr

⊆
V
(
G
)

is a total restrained dominating set if it is a dominating set and both 〈D

t
r
〉 and 〈V(G)−D

t
r
〉 do not contain isolated vertices. The cardinality of the minimum total restrained dominating set in G is the total restrained domination number and is denoted by γ

t
r
(G). In this paper, we continue the study of total restrained domination number of graphs. We first give some results on total restrained domination number of graphs. And then, we characterize all graphs G of order n for which (1) γ

t
r
(G)=n, (2) γ(G)=1 and γ

t
r
(G)=3, and (3) γ

t
r
(G)=2. Furthermore, we give some bounds on total restrained domination number of graphs with diameter 3. Finally, we present some bounds for total restrained domination number of some planar graphs with diameter 2 and γ-set of cardinality 2.
A novel in vitro bovine cartilage punch model for assessing the regeneration of focal cartilage defects with biocompatible bacterial nanocellulose
Authors: Pretzel David , Linss Stefanie , Ahrem Hannes , Endres Michaela , Kaps Christian , Klemm Dieter , Kinne Raimund W
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Current therapies for articular cartilage defects fail to achieve qualitatively sufficient tissue regeneration, possibly because of a mismatch between the speed of cartilage rebuilding and the resorption of degradable implant polymers. The present study focused on the self-healing capacity of resident cartilage cells in conjunction with cell-free and biocompatible (but non-resorbable) bacterial nanocellulose (BNC). This was tested in a novel in vitro bovine cartilage punch model.

Methods

Standardized bovine cartilage discs with a central defect filled with BNC were cultured for up to eight weeks with/without stimulation with transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1. Cartilage formation and integrity were analyzed by histology, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy. Content, release and neosynthesis of the matrix molecules proteoglycan/aggrecan, collagen II and collagen I were also quantified. Finally, gene expression of these molecules was profiled in resident chondrocytes and chondrocytes migrated onto the cartilage surface or the implant material.

Results

Non-stimulated and especially TGF-β1-stimulated cartilage discs displayed a preserved structural and functional integrity of the chondrocytes and surrounding matrix, remained vital in long-term culture (eight weeks) without signs of degeneration and showed substantial synthesis of cartilage-specific molecules at the protein and mRNA level. Whereas mobilization of chondrocytes from the matrix onto the surface of cartilage and implant was pivotal for successful seeding of cell-free BNC, chondrocytes did not immigrate into the central BNC area, possibly due to the relatively small diameter of its pores (2 to 5 μm). Chondrocytes on the BNC surface showed signs of successful redifferentiation over time, including increase of aggrecan/collagen type II mRNA, decrease of collagen type I mRNA and initial deposition of proteoglycan and collagen type II in long-term high-density pellet cultures. Although TGF-β1 stimulation showed protective effects on matrix integrity, effects on other parameters were limited.

Conclusions

The present bovine cartilage punch model represents a robust, reproducible and highly suitable tool for the long-term culture of cartilage, maintaining matrix integrity and homoeostasis. As an alternative to animal studies, this model may closely reflect early stages of cartilage regeneration, allowing the evaluation of promising biomaterials with/without chondrogenic factors.
High mammographic density in women of Ashkenazi Jewish descent
Authors: Caswell Jennifer L , Kerlikowske Karla , Shepherd John A , Cummings Steven R , Hu Donglei , Huntsman Scott , Ziv Elad
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Percent mammographic density (PMD) adjusted for age and body mass index is one of the strongest risk factors for breast cancer and is known to be approximately 60% heritable. Here we report a finding of an association between genetic ancestry and adjusted PMD.

Methods

We selected self-identified Caucasian women in the California Pacific Medical Center Research Institute Cohort whose screening mammograms placed them in the top or bottom quintiles of age-adjusted and body mass index-adjusted PMD. Our final dataset included 474 women with the highest adjusted PMD and 469 with the lowest genotyped on the Illumina 1 M platform. Principal component analysis (PCA) and identity-by-descent analyses allowed us to infer the women's genetic ancestry and correlate it with adjusted PMD.

Results

Women of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, as defined by the first principal component of PCA and identity-by-descent analyses, represented approximately 15% of the sample. Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, defined by the first principal component of PCA, was associated with higher adjusted PMD (P = 0.004). Using multivariate regression to adjust for epidemiologic factors associated with PMD, including age at parity and use of postmenopausal hormone therapy, did not attenuate the association.

Conclusions

Women of Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, based on genetic analysis, are more likely to have high age-adjusted and body mass index-adjusted PMD. Ashkenazi Jews may have a unique set of genetic variants or environmental risk factors that increase mammographic density.
Monitoring neurodegeneration in diabetes using adult neural stem cells derived from the olfactory bulb
Authors: Hidaka Ryo , Machida Masanao , Fujimaki Shin , Terashima Kazuyuki , Asashima Makoto , Kuwabara Tomoko
Published: May 2013

Introduction

Neurons have the intrinsic capacity to produce insulin, similar to pancreatic cells. Adult neural stem cells (NSCs), which give rise to functional neurons, can be established and cultured not only by intracerebral collection, which requires difficult surgery, but also by collection from the olfactory bulb (OB), which is relatively easy. Adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus (HPC) is significantly decreased in diabetes patients. As a result, learning and memory functions, for which the HPC is responsible, decrease.

Methods

In the present study, we compared the effect of diabetes on neurogenesis and insulin expression in adult NSCs. Adult NSCs were derived from the HPC or OB of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Comparative gene-expression analyses were carried out by using extracted tissues and established adult NSC cultures from the HPC or OB in diabetic rats.

Results

Diabetes progression influenced important genes that were required for insulin expression in both OB- and HPC-derived cells. Additionally, we found that the expression levels of several genes, such as voltage-gated sodium channels, glutamate transporters, and glutamate receptors, were significantly different in OB and HPC cells collected from diabetic rats.

Conclusions

By using identified diabetes-response genes, OB NSCs from diabetes patients can be used during diabetes progression to monitor processes that cause neurodegeneration in the central nervous system (CNS). Because hippocampal NSCs and OB NSCs exhibited similar gene-expression profiles during diabetes progression, OB NSCs, which are more easily collected and established than HPC NSCs, may potentially be used for screening of effective drugs for neurodegenerative disorders that cause malignant damage to CNS functions.
PKC-ɛ pseudosubstrate and catalytic activity are necessary for membrane delivery during IgG-mediated phagocytosis
Authors: Wood Tiffany R , Chow Rachel Y , Hanes Cheryl M , Zhang Xuexin , Kashiwagi Kaori , Shirai Yasuhito , Trebak Mohamed , Loegering Daniel J , Saito Naoaki , Lennartz Michelle R
Published: May 2013

In RAW 264.7 cells [1], PKC-ɛ regulates FcγR-mediated phagocytosis. BMDM behave similarly; PKC-ɛ concentrates at phagosomes and internalization are reduced in PKC-ɛ−/− cells. Two questions were asked: what is the role of PKC-ɛ? and what domains are necessary for PKC-ɛ concentration? Function was studied using BMDM and frustrated phagocytosis. On IgG surfaces, PKC-ɛ−/− macrophages spread less than WT. Patch-clamping revealed that the spreading defect is a result of the failure of PKC-ɛ−/− macrophages to add membrane. The defect is specific for FcγR ligation and can be reversed by expression of full-length (but not the isolated RD) PKC-ɛ in PKC-ɛ−/− BMDM. Thus, PKC-ɛ function in phagocytosis requires translocation to phagosomes and the catalytic domain. The expression of chimeric PKC molecules in RAW cells identified the ɛPS as necessary for PKC-ɛ targeting. When placed into (nonlocalizing) PKC-δ, ɛPS was sufficient for concentration, albeit to a lesser degree than intact PKC-ɛ. In contrast, translocation of δ(ɛPSC1B) resembled that of WT PKC-ɛ. Thus, ɛPS and ɛC1B cooperate for optimal phagosome targeting. Finally, cells expressing ɛK437W were significantly less phagocytic than their PKC-ɛ-expressing counterparts, blocked at the pseudopod-extension phase. In summary, we have shown that ɛPS and ɛC1B are necessary and sufficient for targeting PKC-ɛ to phagosomes, where its catalytic activity is required for membrane delivery and pseudopod extension.
Benefits and Adverse Events in Younger Versus Older Patients Receiving Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for Osteosarcoma: Findings From a Meta-Analysis
Authors: Collins Marnie , Wilhelm Miriam , Conyers Rachel , Herschtal Alan , Whelan Jeremy , Bielack Stefan , Kager Leo , Kühne Thomas , Sydes Matthew , Gelderblom Hans , Ferrari Stefano , Picci Piero , Smeland Sigbjørn , Eriksson Mikael , Petrilli Antonio Sérgio , Bleyer Archie , Thomas David M.
Published: May 2013

Purpose

The LIVESTRONG Young Adult Alliance has conducted a meta-analysis of individual patient data from prospective neoadjuvant chemotherapy osteosarcoma studies and registries to examine the relationships of sex, age, and toxicity on survival.

Patients and Methods

Suitable data sets were identified by a survey of published data reported in PubMed. The final pooled data set comprised 4,838 patients from five international cooperative groups.

Results

After accounting for important variables known at study entry such as tumor location and histology, females experienced higher overall survival rates than males (P = .005) and children fared better than adolescents and adults (P = .002). Multivariate landmark analysis following surgery indicated that a higher rate of chemotherapy-induced tumor necrosis was associated with longer survival (P < .001), as was female sex (P = .004) and the incidence of grade 3 or 4 mucositis (P = .03). Age group was not statistically significant in this landmark analysis (P = .12). Females reported higher rates of grade 3 or 4 thrombocytopenia relative to males (P < .001). Children reported the highest rates of grade 3 or 4 neutropenia (P < .001) and thrombocytopenia (P < .001). The achievement of good tumor necrosis was higher for females than for males (P = .002) and for children than for adults (P < .001).

Conclusion

These results suggest fundamental differences in the way chemotherapy is handled by females compared with males and by children compared with older populations. These differences may influence survival in a disease in which chemotherapy is critical to overall outcomes.
Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis and Treatment in Patients With Cancer: American Society of Clinical Oncology Clinical Practice Guideline Update
Authors: Lyman Gary H. , Khorana Alok A. , Kuderer Nicole M. , Lee Agnes Y. , Arcelus Juan Ignacio , Balaban Edward P. , Clarke Jeffrey M. , Flowers Christopher R. , Francis Charles W. , Gates Leigh E. , Kakkar Ajay K. , Key Nigel S. , Levine Mark N. , Liebman Howard A. , Tempero Margaret A. , Wong Sandra L. , Prestrud Ann Alexis , Falanga Anna
Published: May 2013

Purpose

To provide recommendations about prophylaxis and treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in patients with cancer. Prophylaxis in the outpatient, inpatient, and perioperative settings was considered, as were treatment and use of anticoagulation as a cancer-directed therapy.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature published from December 2007 to December 2012 was completed in MEDLINE and the Cochrane Collaboration Library. An Update Committee reviewed evidence to determine which recommendations required revision.

Results

Forty-two publications met eligibility criteria, including 16 systematic reviews and 24 randomized controlled trials.

Recommendations

Most hospitalized patients with cancer require thromboprophylaxis throughout hospitalization. Thromboprophylaxis is not routinely recommended for outpatients with cancer. It may be considered for selected high-risk patients. Patients with multiple myeloma receiving antiangiogenesis agents with chemotherapy and/or dexamethasone should receive prophylaxis with either low–molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or low-dose aspirin. Patients undergoing major cancer surgery should receive prophylaxis, starting before surgery and continuing for at least 7 to 10 days. Extending prophylaxis up to 4 weeks should be considered in those with high-risk features. LMWH is recommended for the initial 5 to 10 days of treatment for deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism as well as for long-term (6 months) secondary prophylaxis. Use of novel oral anticoagulants is not currently recommended for patients with malignancy and VTE. Anticoagulation should not be used for cancer treatment in the absence of other indications. Patients with cancer should be periodically assessed for VTE risk. Oncology professionals should provide patient education about the signs and symptoms of VTE.
5α-Reductase Inhibition Suppresses Testosterone-Induced Initial Regrowth of Regressed Xenograft Prostate Tumors in Animal Models
Authors: Masoodi Khalid Z. , Ramos Garcia Raquel , Pascal Laura E. , Wang Yujuan , Ma Hei M. , O'Malley Katherine , Eisermann Kurtis , Shevrin Daniel H. , Nguyen Holly M. , Vessella Robert L. , Nelson Joel B. , Parikh Rahul A. , Wang Zhou
Published: May 2013

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the standard treatment for patients with prostate-specific antigen progression after treatment for localized prostate cancer. An alternative to continuous ADT is intermittent ADT (IADT), which allows recovery of testosterone during off-cycles to stimulate regrowth and differentiation of the regressed prostate tumor. IADT offers patients a reduction in side effects associated with ADT, improved quality of life, and reduced cost with no difference in overall survival. Our previous studies showed that IADT coupled with 5α-reductase inhibitor (5ARI), which blocks testosterone conversion to DHT could prolong survival of animals bearing androgen-sensitive prostate tumors when off-cycle duration was fixed. To further investigate this clinically relevant observation, we measured the time course of testosterone-induced regrowth of regressed LuCaP35 and LNCaP xenograft tumors in the presence or absence of a 5ARI. 5α-Reductase inhibitors suppressed the initial regrowth of regressed prostate tumors. However, tumors resumed growth and were no longer responsive to 5α-reductase inhibition several days after testosterone replacement. This finding was substantiated by bromodeoxyuridine and Ki67 staining of LuCaP35 tumors, which showed inhibition of prostate tumor cell proliferation by 5ARI on day 2, but not day 14, after testosterone replacement. 5α-Reductase inhibitors also suppressed testosterone-stimulated proliferation of LNCaP cells precultured in androgen-free media, suggesting that blocking testosterone conversion to DHT can inhibit prostate tumor cell proliferation via an intracrine mechanism. These results suggest that short off-cycle coupled with 5α-reductase inhibition could maximize suppression of prostate tumor growth and, thus, improve potential survival benefit achieved in combination with IADT.
Dexamethasone Induces a Putative Repressor Complex and Chromatin Modifications in the CRH Promoter
Authors: Sharma Dharmendra , Bhave Shreyas , Gregg Elaine , Uht Rosalie
Published: May 2013

Glucocorticoids down-regulate expression of hypothalamic CRH; however, mechanisms by which they do so are not fully understood. The proximal promoter cAMP response element, negative glucocorticoid response element (nGRE), and methylated CpG islands all play a role in crh down-regulation. Dexamethasone (Dex)-repressed crh expression is associated with glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) recruitment to the region of the crh promoter. Given that HDAC1 may be present in methylated CpG binding protein 2 (MeCP2) complexes, and that MeCP2 is known to play a role in regulating crh expression, we sought to determine whether or not HDAC1 and/or MeCP2 could interact with the GR. Dex enhanced GR interactions with both proteins. Glucocorticoid regulation of crh has also been associated with CpG methylation; thus we assessed whether GR could interact with a DNA methyltransferase (DnMT). Indeed, the GR interacted with DnMT3b, but not DnMT3a. In addition, Dex-induced occupancy of the crh promoter by HDAC1, MeCP2, and DnMT3b was associated with an increased level of promoter methylation, which appeared to be CpG site specific. Lastly, to extend previous assessment of chromatin modifications in this promoter region, the degree of histone methylation was measured. Dex increased trimethylation of histone 3-lysine 9, a marker of gene suppression; however, levels of di- and trimethylated histone 3-lysine 4, markers of gene activation, were not significantly changed. Taken together, the data suggest that Dex-mediated crh suppression involves formation of a repressor complex consisting of GR, MeCP2, and HDAC1, recruitment of DnMT3b, and associated changes in proximal promoter CpG methylation.
Polar auxin transport: models and mechanisms
Authors: van Berkel Klaartje , de Boer Rob J. , Scheres Ben , ten Tusscher Kirsten
Published: May 2013

Spatial patterns of the hormone auxin are important drivers of plant development. The observed feedback between the active, directed transport that generates auxin patterns and the auxin distribution that influences transport orientation has rendered this a popular subject for modelling studies. Here we propose a new mathematical framework for the analysis of polar auxin transport and present a detailed mathematical analysis of published models. We show that most models allow for self-organised patterning for similar biological assumptions, and find that the pattern generated is typically unidirectional, unless additional assumptions or mechanisms are incorporated. Our analysis thus suggests that current models cannot explain the bidirectional fountain-type patterns found in plant meristems in a fully self-organised manner, and we discuss future research directions to address the gaps in our understanding of auxin transport mechanisms.
Inhibition of Sox2-dependent activation of Shh in the ventral diencephalon by Tbx3 is required for formation of the neurohypophysis
Authors: Trowe Mark-Oliver , Zhao Li , Weiss Anna-Carina , Christoffels Vincent , Epstein Douglas J. , Kispert Andreas
Published: May 2013

Tbx2 and Tbx3 are two highly related members of the T-box transcription factor gene family that regulate patterning and differentiation of a number of tissue rudiments in the mouse. Both genes are partially co-expressed in the ventral diencephalon and the infundibulum; however, a functional requirement in murine pituitary development has not been reported. Here, we show by genetic lineage tracing that Tbx2+ cells constitute the precursor population of the neurohypophysis. However, Tbx2 is dispensable for neurohypophysis development as revealed by normal formation of this organ in Tbx2-deficient mice. By contrast, loss of Tbx3 from the ventral diencephalon results in a failure to establish the Tbx2+ domain in this region, and a lack of evagination of the infundibulum and formation of the neurohypophysis. Rathke's pouch is severely hypoplastic, exhibits defects in dorsoventral patterning, and degenerates after E12.5. In Tbx3-deficient embryos, the ventral diencephalon is hyperproliferative and displays an abnormal cellular architecture, probably resulting from a failure to repress transcription of Shh. We further show that Tbx3 and Tbx2 repress Shh by sequestering the SRY box-containing transcription factor Sox2 away from a Shh forebrain enhancer (SBE2), thus preventing its activation. These data suggest that Tbx3 is required in the ventral diencephalon to establish a Shh− domain to allow formation of the infundibulum.
Adsorptions of Iso- and Terephthalaldehydes on 3-Aminopropyl-Functionalized SBA-15 with Various Loadings
Authors: Koizumi Teruaki , Yoshitake Hideaki
Published: May 2013

Isophthalaldehyde and terephthalaldehyde (m- and p-benzenedialdehydes, respectively) are adsorbed on 3-aminopropyl-functionalized SBA-15 with loadings of 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, and 1.8 mmol g−1. The data are analyzed by fitting with Langmuir adsorption isotherms. For both isomers, the adsorption capacity gradually increases with increasing loading. In contrast, in the adsorption of the m-isomer, the Langmuir constant considerably increases with loading (by a factor of 8.6), while the increase is limited in the case of p-isomer (by a factor of 1.6). This large difference, which is due to structural isomerism of adsorbate, can be explained by the ease of matching of the two aldehyde functions to 3-aminopropyl groups densely populated on the surface. The adsorption model is supported by the results of IR spectroscopy.
Synthesis of α-Arylcarboxylic Acid Amides from Silyl Enol Ether via Migratory Amidation with 2-Azido-1,3-dimethylimidazolinium Hexafluorophosphate
Authors: Kitamura Mitsuru , Murakami Kento , Shiratake Yuichiro , Okauchi Tatsuo
Published: May 2013

α-Arylcarboxylic acid amides were synthesized by reacting silyl enol ethers of aryl ketones and 2-azido-1,3-dimethylimidazolinium hexafluorophosphate (ADMP, 1). Silyl enol ethers react with ADMP 1 to give N-(α-arylacyl)guanidines via the migration of aryl groups in enol ethers. The products were transformed to the corresponding α-aryl acetamides by treating with LiAlH4.
Infiltration of Photonic Crystals with Organic Materials
Authors: Tay Savas , Norwood Robert A. , Sumimura Hiroshi , Kropachev Alexander , Thomas Jayan , Peyghambarian Nasser , Skotheim Terje , Moon Jun Hyuk , Yang Shu
Published: May 2013

Infiltration of photonic crystals (PC's) with organic materials was
investigated. Metal-like PC's were fabricated by coating polymeric
templates with nano-amorphous carbon. Melt-processing was used for
complete filling of 2D silicon PC's with azo-copolymers and
nano-particles. Article not available.
Intussusception After Rotavirus Vaccines Reported to US VAERS, 2006–2012
Authors: Haber Penina , Patel Manish , Pan Yi , Baggs James , Haber Michael , Museru Oidda , Yue Xin , Lewis Paige , DeStefano Frank , Parashar Umesh D.
Published: May 2013

BACKGROUND:

In 2006 and 2008, 2 new rotavirus vaccines (RotaTeq [RV5] and Rotarix [RV1]) were introduced in the United States.

METHODS:

We assessed intussusception events reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System from February 2006 through April 2012 for RV5 and from April 2008 through April 2012 for RV1. For RV5, we conducted a self-controlled risk interval analysis using Poisson regression to estimate the daily reporting ratio (DRR) of intussusception comparing average daily reports 3 to 6 versus 0 to 2 days after vaccination. We calculated reporting rate differences based on DRRs and background rates of intussusception. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess effects of differential reporting completeness and inaccuracy of baseline rates. Few reports were submitted after RV1, allowing only a descriptive analysis.

RESULTS:

The Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System received 584 confirmed intussusception reports after RV5 and 52 after RV1, with clustering 3 to 6 days after both vaccines. The DRR comparing the 3- to 6-day and the 0- to 2-day periods after RV5 dose 1 was 3.75 (95% confidence interval = 1.90 to 7.39). There was no significant increase in reporting after dose 2 or dose 3. Over all 3 doses, the excess risk of intussusception was 0.79 events (95% confidence interval = –0.04 to 1.62) per 100 000 vaccinations. From the sensitivity analyses, we conclude that under a worst-case scenario, the DRR could be 5.00 and excess risk per 100 000 doses could be 1.36.

CONCLUSIONS:

We observed a persistent clustering of reported intussusception events 3 to 6 days after the first dose of RV5 vaccination. This clustering could translate to a small increased risk of intussusception, which is outweighed by the benefits of rotavirus vaccination.
Photochromic properties in Eu3+ doped Sr2SnO4
Authors: Kamimura Sunao , Yamada Hiroshi , Xu Chao-Nan
Published: May 2013

We report the photochromism (PC) in Eu3+ doped Sr2SnO4. The Sr2SnO4:Eu3+ is sensitive to UV light (λ < 350 nm) and turns to purple color. When visible light (λ= 400-700 nm) is irradiated, the colored Sr2SnO4:Eu3+ is bleached. From the results of absorption spectrum, Sr vacancies in the host lattice and charge transfer transition between Eu3+-O2- is responsible for PC process of Sr2SnO4:Eu3+.