bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel murine model of myeloproliferative disorders generated by overexpression of the transcription factor NF-E2
Authors: Kaufmann Kai B. , Gründer Albert , Hadlich Tobias , Wehrle Julius , Gothwal Monika , Bogeska Ruzhica , Seeger Thalia S. , Kayser Sarah , Pham Kien-Binh , Jutzi Jonas S. , Ganzenmüller Lucas , Steinemann Doris , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Wagner Julia M. , Jung Manfred , Will Britta , Steidl Ulrich , Aumann Konrad , Werner Martin , Günther Thomas , Schüle Roland , Rambaldi Alessandro , Pahl Heike L.
Published: January 2012

The molecular pathophysiology of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) remains poorly understood. Based on the observation that the transcription factor NF-E2 is often overexpressed in MPN patients, independent of the presence of other molecular aberrations, we generated mice expressing an NF-E2 transgene in hematopoietic cells. These mice exhibit many features of MPNs, including thrombocytosis, leukocytosis, Epo-independent colony formation, characteristic bone marrow histology, expansion of stem and progenitor compartments, and spontaneous transformation to acute myeloid leukemia. The MPN phenotype is transplantable to secondary recipient mice. NF-E2 can alter histone modifications, and NF-E2 transgenic mice show hypoacetylation of histone H3. Treatment of mice with the histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDAC-I) vorinostat restored physiological levels of histone H3 acetylation, decreased NF-E2 expression, and normalized platelet numbers. Similarly, MPN patients treated with an HDAC-I exhibited a decrease in NF-E2 expression. These data establish a role for NF-E2 in the pathophysiology of MPNs and provide a molecular rationale for investigating epigenetic alterations as novel targets for rationally designed MPN therapies.
Regulatory Functions of SnRK1 in Stress-Responsive Gene Expression and in Plant Growth and Development
Authors: Cho Young-Hee , Hong Jung-Woo , Kim Eun-Chul , Yoo Sang-Dong
Published: January 2012

Sucrose-nonfermentation1-related protein kinase1 (SnRK1) is an evolutionarily conserved energy sensor protein that regulates gene expression in response to energy depletion in plants. Efforts to elucidate the functions and mechanisms of this protein kinase are hampered, however, by inherent growth defects of snrk1-null mutant plants. To overcome these limitations and study SnRK1 functions in vivo, we applied a method combining transient expression in leaf mesophyll protoplasts and stable expression in transgenic plants. We found that both rice (Oryza sativa) and Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) SnRK1 activities critically influence stress-inducible gene expression and the induction of stress tolerance. Genetic, molecular, and chromatin immunoprecipitation analyses further revealed that the nuclear SnRK1 modulated target gene transcription in a submergence-dependent manner. From early seedling development through late senescence, SnRK1 activities appeared to modulate developmental processes in the plants. Our findings offer insight into the regulatory functions of plant SnRK1 in stress-responsive gene regulation and in plant growth and development throughout the life cycle.
Malassezia globosa tends to grow actively in summer conditions more than other cutaneous Malassezia species
Authors: AKAZA Narifumi , AKAMATSU Hirohiko , TAKEOKA Shiori , SASAKI Yasuyuki , MIZUTANI Hiroshi , NAKATA Satoru , MATSUNAGA Kayoko
Published: January 2012

Malassezia globosa is a major pathogen of Malassezia folliculitis (MF) and the predominant species on human skin. The aim of this study was to clarify the differences between M. globosa and other cutaneous Malassezia species, M. restricta, M. dermatis, M. sympodialis and M. furfur. The optimum growth temperature, effects of compounds of sweat and free fatty acids on growth, and lipase activities of five cutaneous Malassezia species were determined. The growth of M. globosa was promoted strongly by the compounds of sweat and high temperature unlike that of other cutaneous Malassezia species. This result clarified that M. globosa tended to grow actively in summer conditions more than other cutaneous Malassezia species. Furthermore, M. globosa showed high lipase activity. We consider these characteristics of M. globosa to relate to the pathogenesis of MF.
Lateral cervical lymph node metastases in papillary thyroid cancer: a systematic review of imaging‐guided and prophylactic removal of the lateral compartment
Authors: Mulla Mubashir G. , Knoefel Wolfram Trudo , Gilbert Jackie , McGregor Alan , Schulte Klaus‐Martin
Published: January 2012

Background

Papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) is a common endocrine cancer and frequently presents with lymph node (LN) metastases. The frequency of LN metastases in the lateral compartment and their surgical removal are poorly defined. There are no prospective randomised controlled trials addressing an eventual outcome difference relating to the extent of the initial surgical approach. The aim of this study was to define the extent of lateral LN involvement and the role of imaging in identification of these metastatic LN.

Design and Methods

A systematic review of studies of patients with PTC undergoing either prophylactic or therapeutic lymphadenectomy of the lateral cervical compartment. Studies involving imaging modalities in the detection of lateral cervical LNs in PTC were also analysed.

Results

Systematic review on the frequency of lateral LN metastases and their detection using various imaging tools identified 19 studies containing data on 5587 patients undergoing prophylactic or imaging‐guided removal of the lateral compartment. Imaging‐guided surgery retrieved cancerous lateral LNs in 446/3178 or 14% of eligible patients, whilst prophylactic lateral neck dissection yielded histopathological proof of cancer in 1177/204 or 57·5% of patients. The frequency of lateral compartment metastases increased with T stage. The sensitivity of ultrasound and CT was poor as low as 27% when accurately calculated.

Conclusion

Metastatic cervical LNs were found in more than half of patients when prophylactic lateral LN dissection was performed. Use of conventional imaging for the selection of the surgical approach to the lateral cervical compartment may commonly identify stage N1a instead of N1b and thus lead to false stage assignment as stage III rather than stage IV, concealing the severe prognostic implications of this stage progression in individual patients.
Quorum‐sensing non‐coding small RNAs use unique pairing regions to differentially control mRNA targets
Authors: Shao Yi , Bassler Bonnie L.
Published: January 2012

Quorum sensing is a mechanism of cell–cell communication that bacteria use to control collective behaviours including bioluminescence, biofilm formation and virulence factor production. In the Vibrio harveyi and Vibrio cholerae quorum‐sensing circuits, multiple non‐coding small regulatory RNAs called the quorum‐regulated small RNAs (Qrr sRNAs) function to establish the global quorum‐sensing gene expression pattern by modulating translation of multiple mRNAs encoding quorum‐sensing regulatory factors. Here we show that the Qrr sRNAs post‐transcriptionally activate production of the low cell density master regulator AphA through base pairing to aphA mRNA, and this is crucial for the accumulation of appropriate levels of AphA protein at low cell density. We find that the Qrr sRNAs use unique pairing regions to discriminate between their different targets. Qrr1 is not as effective as Qrr2–5 in activating aphA because Qrr1 lacks one of two required pairing regions. However, Qrr1 is equally effective as the other Qrr sRNAs at controlling targets like luxR and luxO because it harbours all of the required pairing regions for these targets. Sequence comparisons reveal that Vibrionaceae species possessing only qrr1 do not have the aphA gene under Qrr sRNA control. Our findings suggest co‐evolving relationships between particular Qrr sRNAs and particular mRNA targets.
Mating, ovariole number and sperm production of the dengue vector mosquito Aedes aegypti (L.) in Australia: broad thermal optima provide the capacity for survival in a changing climate
Authors: BADER CHRISTIE A. , WILLIAMS CRAIG R.
Published: January 2012

Little is known about mating, ovariole number and sperm production of Aedes aegypti (L.) in Australia, especially in relation to climate. To determine the extent of interpopulation variation and thermal dependence of reproductive traits in A. aegypti, laboratory studies are conducted using colonies originating from up to four locations in Queensland, Australia. Observations of insemination reveal that these behaviours are temperature‐dependent, although humidity levels appear to have little effect, with only small increases in insemination at higher humidities. No noteworthy variations in thermal optima (temperature ranges within which maximal performance occurs) for such behaviours are observed between colonies, with all showing high levels of insemination between 25 and 35 °C. Both male and female maximum fecundity for A. aegypti are also found to be temperature‐dependent. Sperm counts, not hitherto obtained for Australian A. aegypti, range from approximately 3000–5000 per male, with counts increasing with increased rearing and holding temperature, despite a decreasing body size. Conversely, ovary size decreases with temperature and body size, from approximately 100 ovarioles per female at 17 °C, to 85 at 35 °C. The lack of variation in reproductive capacity between colonies of different geographical origin indicates that any locally‐acting selective pressures are not driving divergence in key reproductive traits such as insemination ability and fecundity. This may be because the source populations used are not from sufficiently diverse climates. Nonetheless, the broad thermal optima for reproductive traits in A. aegypti are suggestive of limitations on these traits not being responsible for limiting distribution and population growth in the event of projected mean temperature rises.
Wide genetic diversity of Ralstonia solanacearum strains affecting tomato in Trinidad, West Indies
Authors: Ramsubhag A. , Lawrence D. , Cassie D. , Fraser R. , Umaharan P. , Prior P. , Wicker E.
Published: January 2012

The genetic diversity of Ralstonia solanacearum causing bacterial wilt of tomato in Trinidad was assessed using the hierarchical phylotyping scheme and rep‐PCR DNA fingerprinting. Seventy‐one isolates were collected in 2003 on infected tomato crops in the four main vegetable cropping areas of Trinidad (North, Central, South‐East and South). Two phylotypes were present, with phylotype II being much more prevalent (66%) than phylotype I (34%). Phylotype II strains consisted mainly of sequevar 7 in Central and South‐East, and sequevar 35 in North, South‐East and South. This is the first report of sequevar 7 outside south‐eastern USA. In contrast, no ‘brown rot’ (phylotype IIB/1, race 3 biovar 2) or emerging strains of phylotype IIB/4NPB were identified. Rep‐PCR data were used to assess population genetic structure. No significant clustering by geographical distance was found, suggesting regular gene flow among cropping areas (via waterways, plant or soil). However, the population from Central was significantly differentiated from the others, containing only phylotype II/seq 7 strains, with a high degree of clonality, suggesting a possible recent introduction from abroad. The South population was less aggressive and more genetically diverse, suggesting horizontal gene transfers within the population, even among isolates of different phylotypes. Phylotype I and phylotype II populations differed slightly in clonality levels, with indications of more frequent recombination events within phylotype I populations. Possible factors influencing genetic diversity and distribution within the island are discussed.
Association Studies of Gene Polymorphisms in Toll‐Like Receptors 2 and 4 in Croatian Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Džumhur A. , Zibar L. , Wagner J. , Šimundić T. , Dembić Z. , Barbić J.
Published: January 2012

The aim of the study was to assess the frequency of SNP896A/G in the Toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 gene and SNP1350T/C in the TLR2 gene in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and to analyse the association of these SNPs with risk factors for atherosclerosis and clinical aspects of AMI in a sample of the Croatian population. We included 240 participants in the study: 120 AMI patients and 120 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy blood donor controls. The SNP1350T/C variant in the TLR2 gene showed a lower frequency in the AMI patient group than in the control group (P = 0.033). The frequency of SNP896A/G variants in the TLR4 gene between the patients and the controls did not differ (P = 0.286). Significantly, fewer people had SNP1350T/C in the TLR2 gene (P = 0.003) among the participants with arterial hypertension than those without it. The frequency of SNP896A/G in TLR4 was the same in hypertensive patients compared with normotensive subjects (P = 0.088). SNP1350T/C in TLR2 was less frequent in the AMI patients and in those with hypertension. Thus, SNP1350T/C in TLR2 might play a protective role against AMI and arterial hypertension. The frequency of SNP896A/G in the TLR4 gene was not associated with AMI and arterial hypertension. Other risk factors for atherosclerosis and clinical aspects of myocardial infarction were not associated with the genotype distribution of the examined genes.
Immunotherapy with oligomannose‐coated liposomes ameliorates allergic symptoms in a murine food allergy model
Authors: Kawakita Akiko , Shirasaki Hisako , Yasutomi Motoko , Tokuriki Shuko , Mayumi Mitsufumi , Naiki Hironobu , Ohshima Yusei
Published: January 2012

Background:

Allergen‐specific immunotherapy has been anticipated to be a disease‐modifying therapy for food allergies. We previously reported that CD8+ regulatory T cells may prevent antigen‐sensitized mice from developing allergic diarrhea. Because oligomannose‐coated liposomes (OML) have been shown to induce MHC class I‐restricted CD8+ T cell responses, we analyzed the adjuvant activities of OML for inducing regulatory CD8+ T cells and mucosal tolerogenic responses in allergen‐sensitized mice.

Methods:

The BALB/c mice that were previously sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) were intranasally immunized with OVA‐encased in OML (OVA‐OML) or OVA‐encased in non‐coated liposomes (OVA‐NL). We assessed allergic diarrhea induced by oral OVA administration, OVA‐specific immunoglobulin production, and cytokine production in the intestines and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs).

Results:

Intranasal immunization with OVA‐OML, but not OVA‐NL, suppressed the development of allergic diarrhea. This was associated with in vitro Ag‐induced IL‐10 production and the in vivo expansion of CD8+ CD28− and CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ T cell populations among mesenteric lymph node mononuclear cells, and was significantly ablated by anti‐SIGNR1 or anti‐CR3 mAbs. Up‐regulation of serum OVA‐specific IgE was suppressed, whereas OVA‐specific IgG1, IgG2a, and soluble IgA production were enhanced by intranasal administration of OVA‐OML. Adoptive transfer of CD8+ CD28− T cells but not CD28+ CD8+ T cells from the MLNs of OVA‐OML‐treated mice ameliorated the development of diarrhea.

Conclusion:

These results suggest that intranasal immunization with Ag‐encased OML may be an effective immunotherapy for food allergies, as it induces a subset of regulatory CD8+ T cells as well as CD4+ CD25+ Foxp3+ T cell and modulates humoral immune responses in allergen‐sensitized mice.
Mode of inheritance in fruit acidity in apple analysed with a mixed model of a major gene and polygenes using large complex pedigree
Authors: Iwanami Hiroshi , Moriya Shigeki , Kotoda Nobuhiro , Mimida Naozumi , Takahashi‐Sumiyoshi Sae , Abe Kazuyuki
Published: January 2012

With 5 figures and 2 tables

Fruit acidity is an important characteristic to determine the marketability of apple (Malus × domestica Borkh.). To reveal the mode of inheritance in fruit acidity and to estimate the genetic parameters, we performed segregation analysis using a population from an apple breeding programme. Four models (mixed, Mendelian, polygenic and environmental) were compared to find the most likely mode of the inheritance of acidity. The phenotypic variance of acidity in the population was properly explained using a mixed model of a major gene and polygenes. The genotypic values of the major gene (AA, Aa and aa) were estimated to be 0.45, 0.52 and 0.92 g/100 ml in titratable acidity, respectively. The values of the homozygote (AA) and the heterozygote (Aa) were very close and lower than that of the other homozygote (aa), indicating that an allele of the major gene appeared to have complete dominance with a function of lowering acidity. The estimate of the heritability after accounting for the major gene was moderately high, 0.43, in the mixed model. This means that even with removal of the effect of the major gene, acidity could fluctuate considerably by the effect of polygenes. The proportions of progeny with adequate acidity differed greatly, depending on which genotype was used as parents for the crossing. Therefore, it is very important to know the genotypes of parental cultivars before crossing.
Dry matter and relative sugar yield from enzymatic hydrolysis of maize whole plants and cobs
Authors: Paul Scott Marvin , Byrnes Kenneth , Blanco Michael
Published: January 2012

With 1 figure and 6 tables

The objective of this work was to determine the potential of germplasm from the Germplasm Enhancement of Maize (GEM) programme for use as a biofuel feedstock, relative to commercial grain and silage hybrids. Eighteen maize genotypes including GEM varieties and commercial checks were evaluated in a 2‐year field study for dry matter yield, moisture at harvest and sugar produced by hydrolysis of whole plants and cobs. There were no significant correlations between any of the traits measured, suggesting that it should be possible to improve yield with quality traits using a selection index. A brown midrib variety was in the top significance group for hydrolysis traits, underscoring the impact of this mutation on the digestibility of lignocellulosic biomass. Commercial varieties tended to have superior dry matter yield, while several GEM lines ranked highly for sugar produced by hydrolysis of whole plants. Selection indices that take both sugar produced by hydrolysis and dry matter yield into account produced rankings of the germplasm used in this study that were markedly different than rankings based on either trait alone.
Oral simvastatin reduces the hypertensive response to air‐jet stress
Authors: Ufnal Marcin , Drapala Adrian , Sikora Mariusz , Szczepanska‐Sadowska Ewa
Published: January 2012

Brain angiotensin (Ang)IIand vasopressin play important roles in the neurogenic regulation of the circulatory system, such as in cardiovascular responses to stress. Recently, it has become evident that the positive effects of statins are not limited to their lipid‐lowering actions; for example, it has been found that statins interact with angiotensin peptides.

In the present study we tested the hypothesis that simvastatin affects haemodynamic responses to air‐jet stress and intracerebroventricular infusions of vasopressin andAngII. We maintained 12‐week‐old maleSprague‐Dawley rats either on tap water (control) or on water containing simvastatin (20, 40 or 60 mg/L) for 4 weeks. Subsequently, we measured arterial blood pressure and heart rate (HR) at baseline and after air‐jet stress or intracerebroventricular infusions over 30 s of 10 ngAngII, 20 ng vasopressin or their antagonists (10 μg losartan and 400 ng d(CH2)5[Tyr(Me)2,Ala‐NH29] vasopressin, respectively).

There were no significant differences between the control and simvastatin groups in terms of baseline mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) andHR. In rats given 60 mg/Lsimvastatin, the hypertensive response to air‐jet stress was significantly smaller than in controls, as was the increase inMAPin response toAngII. In contrast, there was no significant difference between the groups in terms of the hypertensive response to vasopressin.

These findings show that simvastatin affects the hypertensive response to air‐jet stress and provide evidence that statins may affect the brain's regulation of the circulatory system.
Cancer‐associated ischemic stroke is associated with elevated d‐dimer and fibrin degradation product levels in acute ischemic stroke with advanced cancer
Authors: Kono Tomoyuki , Ohtsuki Toshiho , Hosomi Naohisa , Takeda Ikuko , Aoki Shiro , Sueda Yoshimasa , Ishihara Kayoko , Nakamura Takeshi , Yamawaki Takemori , Matsumoto Masayasu
Published: January 2012

Aim:  Although several studies have reported various causes of ischemic stroke in patients with cancer, only a few have evaluated the clinical relevance of ischemic stroke pathogenesis to cancer. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the clinical characteristics of cancer‐associated ischemic stroke.

Methods:  We evaluated 154 ischemic stroke patients without cancer and 57 ischemic stroke patients with cancer who had either received continuous treatment for cancer within 5 years before to the onset of ischemic stroke, or who had been diagnosed with cancer within 1 year after the onset of ischemic stroke. Cancer patients were grouped into “cancer‐associated ischemic stroke,” the “conventional ischemic stroke,” or “other.”

Results:  A total of 15 patients (26%) were classified into the cancer‐associated ischemic stroke in cancer patients. In univariate analysis of the cancer‐associated ischemic stroke and the others, there were significant differences in the prevalence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia and advanced cancer (clinical stage IV), and the levels of d‐dimer, fibrin degradation product and hemoglobin. With multivariate regression analysis of those factors, the prevalence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia and advanced cancer (clinical stage IV), and the levels of d‐dimer and fibrin degradation product remained as statistically independent factors, which were associated with cancer‐associated ischemic stroke (n = 111, χ2 = 67.21, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:  In acute ischemic stroke, the cancer‐associated ischemic stroke is associated with elevated d‐dimer and fibrin degradation products, even after controlling hypertension, hyperlipidemia and advanced cancer (clinical stage IV). Geriatr Gerontol Int 2012; 12: 468–474.
Rupture of a pregnant unscarred uterus in an early secondary trimester: A case report and brief review
Authors: Sun Hsu‐Dong , Su Wen‐Hsiang , Chang Wen‐Hsun , Wen Lily , Huang Ben‐Shian , Wang Peng‐Hui
Published: January 2012

Rupture of a pregnant uterus in early pregnancy and an unscarred uterus are extremely rare, and some non‐specific symptoms might appear before this occurrence. We report the case of a multiparous woman (gravida 3, para 2) with uterine fundal rupture in her early second trimester (17+ weeks of gestational age), who presented upper abdominal discomfort and vomiting for 3 days, and progressed into sudden acute abdomen and shock. During emergent laparotomy, the entire amniotic sac was found in the peritoneal cavity with a rupture of the uterine fundus. Although we could not confirm that the appearance of upper gastrointestinal symptoms and severe vomiting was associated with uterine rupture in this pregnant woman, abdominal symptoms or signs might be a hint or cause of severe catastrophic pregnancy‐related complications.
Rapidly grown congenital fetal immature gastric teratoma causing severe neonatal respiratory distress
Authors: Jeong Hyun Chul , Cha Seong Jae , Kim Gwang Jun
Published: January 2012

A pregnant woman in the mid‐third trimester developed complications with enlarged fetal abdomen and polyhydramnios. Prenatal ultrasound visualized dilated bowel, intraperitoneal calcifications, ascites, hydroceles and polyhydramnios, giving the impression of meconium peritonitis. The fetal abdomen continued to increased in size, and maternal dyspnea due to polyhydramnios was aggravated. She underwent a cesarean section at 36 + 1 weeks' gestation. The delivery was followed by severe neonatal respiratory distress due to the huge mass in the abdomen. The tumor was successfully removed by emergency surgery and diagnosed as immature gastric teratoma. No other associated anomaly was found. The infant made a good progress after the operation.
Octogenarians: an increasing challenge for acute care and colorectal surgeons. An outcomes analysis of emergency colorectal surgery in the elderly
Authors: Modini C. , Romagnoli F. , De Milito R. , Romeo V. , Petroni R. , La Torre F. , Catani M.
Published: January 2012

Aim  Emergency surgery is associated with higher mortality rates, especially in elderly patients presenting with emergent colorectal disease. The aim of this study was to determine the outcomes in elderly patients following emergency colorectal resection, with particular focus on octogenarians who presented a sixfold higher mortality rate with respect to other patients.

Method  This study examined 355 patients who underwent surgery at an Emergency Department for complications of colorectal disease between January 2007 and December 2009. Morbidity and mortality were analyzed on the basis of patients’ characteristics and presentation. Univariate and logistic regression analyses were performed on morbidity and mortality risk factors.

Results  Two‐hundred and fifteen patients of > 65 years of age were included, 93 of whom were ≥ 80 years of age. The global mortality rate was 16%. In patients ≥ 80 years of age the mortality rate was 30%. The difference in mortality rate between patients < 80 years of age vs patients ≥ 80 years of age was 24%. In resected patients ≥ 80 years of age, American Society of Anesthesiology grade, colonic ischaemia, neurological comorbidity and anastomotic dehiscence were identified as independent risk factors in both univariate and logistic regression analyses. The morbidity rate was approximately 17%, and no significant difference in morbidity was found between the two groups.

Conclusion  The results of this study show that fitness status and micro vascular impairment impact significantly on mortality in the elderly, particularly in octogenarians. Although the outcomes observed were compatible with the literature, the six fold higher mortality rate observed in the most elderly patients identifies a group for which death prevention is best achieved with aggressive resuscitation and intensive postoperative care, rather than timing of surgery.
The mesocolon: a prospective observational study
Authors: Culligan K. , Coffey J. C. , Kiran R. P. , Kalady M. , Lavery I. C. , Remzi F. H.
Published: January 2012

Aim The aim of this study was to characterize formally the mesocolic anatomy during and following total mesocolic excision. Total mesocolic excision may improve survival in patients with colon cancer. Although this requires a detailed knowledge of normal and variant mesocolic anatomy, the latter is poorly characterized. No studies have prospectively characterized the anatomy of the entire mesocolon.

Method Total mesocolic excision was performed in 109 patients undergoing total abdominal colectomy. The mesocolon was maintained intact thereby permitting a precise anatomical characterization from ileocaecal to mesorectal levels. Two‐ and three‐dimensional schematic reconstructions were generated to illustratein situconformation.

Results Several previously undocumented findings emerged, including: (i) the mesocolon was continuous from ileocaecal to rectosigmoid level; (ii) a mesenteric confluence occurred at the ileocaecal and rectosigmoid junction as well as at the hepatic and splenic flexures; (iii) each flexure (and ileocaecal junction) was a complex of peritoneal and omental attachments to the colon centred on a mesenteric confluence; (iv) the proximal rectum originated at the confluence of the mesorectum and mesosigmoid; and (v) a plane occupied by Toldt’s fascia separated the entire apposed mesocolon from the retroperitoneum.

Conclusion When the mesocolon is fully mobilized during a total mesocolic excision of the colon, several anatomical findings that have not been previously documented emerge. These findings provide a rationalization of the surgical, embryological and anatomical approaches to the mesocolon. This has implications for all related sciences.
Impact at the ‘Bottom of the Pyramid’: The Role of Social Capital in Capability Development and Community Empowerment
Authors: Ansari Shahzad , Munir Kamal , Gregg Tricia
Published: January 2012

abstract

Rooted in the notion of inclusive capitalism, the Bottom‐of‐the‐Pyramid (BoP) approach argues for the simultaneous pursuit of profit and social welfare by creating markets for the poor. This idea has been both celebrated and criticized in the literature. We do neither in this paper. Instead, by leveraging insights from Amartya Sen's work on capability development and the literature on social capital, we offer a more socially embedded and community‐centric BoP approach. By redefining poverty not just as a lack of income, but also as a lack of ‘capabilities’ in Sen's sense that can be developed through leveraging social capital, we offer a systemic framework for understanding the societal impact of business‐driven ventures in the BoP and empowering BoP communities through these ventures. Specifically, we argue that any business initiative in the BoP ought to be evaluated on the basis of whether it advances capability transfer and retention by (a) enhancing the social capital between a particular community and other more resource rich networks, and (b) preserving the existing social capital in the community.
Linear Asymmetries and the LCA
Authors: Abels Klaus , Neeleman Ad
Published: January 2012

Abstract. Kayne (1994)was instrumental in putting linear asymmetries on the generative research agenda. His Linear Correspondence Axiom is seen as a restrictive, conceptually attractive proposal supported by a wealth of empirical evidence. In this paper, we take issue with this assessment. (i) We show that for every structure that violates the LCA, there is an LCA‐compatible counterpart, including rightward movement structures and structures with rightward specifiers. (ii) We discussCinque's (2005)LCA‐based analysis of word order in the extended nominal projection, demonstrating that the data in fact do not support any hypothesis stronger than a ban on rightward movement. (iii) We demonstrate that claims to the effect that central properties of phrase structure (such as headedness and the single‐specifier restriction) follow from the LCA are incorrect. (iv) We show that the LCA is toothless without a restrictive theory of movement, but that it can only be reconciled with the data in the absence of such a theory.
Working Memory and the Observed Effectiveness of Recasts on Different L2 Outcome Measures
Authors: Révész Andrea
Published: January 2012

This study examined whether the observed effectiveness of recasts is influenced by the type of outcome measure used and whether different aspects of working memory are differentially associated with learners’ performance on the various outcome measures. The participants were 90 learners of English as a foreign language, who were randomly assigned to a recast, a nonrecast, and a control group. A pretest–posttest–delayed posttest design was employed to detect any improvement in the learners’ knowledge of one usage of the English past progressive construction. Many‐facet Rasch measurement and correlational analyses yielded two main findings. First, recasts generated the greatest gains on an oral production test, lesser gains on a written production test, and the least gains on a written grammaticality judgment test. Second, in the recast group, participants with higher reading spans achieved more development on the written tests, while those with higher digit and nonword spans showed greater improvement on the oral test. For the nonrecast group, no association was found between the working memory and developmental measures.
Evidence for epistatic gene interactions between growth factor genes in stroke outcome
Authors: Manso H. , Krug T. , Sobral J. , Albergaria I. , Gaspar G. , Ferro J. M. , Oliveira S. A. , Vicente A. M.
Published: January 2012

Background and purpose:  Growth factors are thought to modulate neurological function in stroke recovery through effects in angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and neuroprotection.

Methods:  We tested the association of variants in the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) and vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) genes, and epistatic interactions between them, with functional outcome in a sample of 546 stroke patients.

Results:  While none of the tested genes was independently associated with stroke outcome, two significant gene–gene interaction models were identified. One model combined one BDNF and three FGF2 markers, with a global odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval [CI]) of 4.15 [2.86–6.04]. The second model included one FGF2 and two VEGFA markers with a global OR [95% CI] = 2.54 [1.76–3.67].

Conclusions:  The results provide evidence for gene interactions in stroke outcome, highlighting the complexity of the recovery mechanisms after a stroke event.
Fatigue, sleep, and nocturnal complaints in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Lo Coco D. , La Bella V.
Published: January 2012

Background and purpose:  Fatigue is a common symptom in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Although sleep disturbances are a candidate factor that may interfere with fatigue in patients with ALS, the role of sleep‐related abnormalities in determining fatigue in ALS is unknown.

Objective:  To evaluate the frequency and determinants of fatigue in a group of 91 consecutive patients with ALS, with special attention to the relationship between fatigue and sleep problems.

Methods:  Measures included the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), ALS Functional Rating Scale‐Revised (ALSFRS‐R), and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI).

Results:  The mean FSS score was 4.35 ± 1.1, and 48 patients with ALS (52.75%) reported clinical significant fatigue. FSS score correlated with ALSFRS‐R score, forced vital capacity, ESS, BDI, and global PSQI score. Patients with fatigue were significantly more disabled and more frequently reported difficulties staying asleep and nocturnal complaints, such as nocturia and disturbing muscle cramps. After multivariate analysis, patients’ disability and nocturnal complaints were significantly associated with fatigue.

Conclusion:  In this study, we demonstrated that fatigue, a troublesome and disabling symptom in ALS, is associated with physical impairment and night‐time complaints (such as nocturia and muscle cramps), suggesting that treating sleep problems might be useful in alleviating fatigue in these patients.
Genetic bases and phenotypes of autosomal recessive Parkinson disease in a Turkish population
Authors: Lohmann E. , Dursun B. , Lesage S. , Hanagasi H. A. , Sevinc G. , Honore A. , Bilgic B. , Gürvit H. , Dogu O. , Kaleagası H. , Babacan G. , Yazici J. , Erginel‐Unaltuna N. , Brice A. , Emre M.
Published: January 2012

Background and purpose:  To evaluate the phenotype and the frequencies of mutations in PRKN, DJ1 and PINK1 genes in patients with Parkinson disease (PD) in Turkey.

Methods:  Eighty‐six patients from 77 PD families participated in the study. Seventy‐four families were originating from Turkey, two families from Greece and one family from Bulgaria. All patients underwent detailed neurological examination. PRKN, PINK1 and DJ1 genes were sequenced, and dosage analysis was performed by multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification.

Results:  Sixteen patients with PD were found to carry homozygous (n = 14) or compound heterozygous (n = 2) PRKN mutations. We identified exon rearrangements, three point mutations and one new point mutation in exon 2 (p.K27del). In two families, two new PINK1 point mutations (L31X and P416L) were identified. No pathogenic mutations were found in DJ1 gene. Clinical phenotypes of PRKN patients were comparable to previously described features, but only in four of 13 families, the pedigree structure was clearly consistent with an autosomal recessive (AR) mode of inheritance in comparison with nine families where also different pattern of transmission could have been possible.

Conclusions:  Our data suggest that the PRKN gene mutation is the most frequent form of ARPD in Turkey. The proportion of mutations with regard to the age of onset in our population is in the range of those previously described, but our pedigrees are characterized by high rate of consanguinity, which might explain the high proportion of families with homozygous mutations and of patients in more than one generation. Pathogenic DJ1 mutations do not seem to play a major role in Turkey.
Microstructure of Powellite‐Rich Glass‐Ceramics: A Model System for High Level Waste Immobilization
Authors: Taurines Tatiana , Boizot Bruno
Published: January 2012

In this study, we synthesized glass‐ceramics from glasses in the system SiO2–B2O3–Na2O–CaO–Al2O3–MoO3–Gd2O3 by various heat treatments. Glass‐ceramics contain only one crystalline phase in the bulk: powellite (CaMoO4). The influence of molybdenum and rare earth contents on powellite crystallization was studied using SEM and XRD. Heat treatments were optimized to lead to a wide range in size and concentration of powellite. Moreover, the molybdenum content left in residual glasses, calculated using XRD quantitation, showed that the residual glasses have a similar composition for a given Gd2O3 content after heat treatments. This work had led to the synthesis of two phase glass‐ceramics with constant borosilicate glass matrices and powellite crystals with controlled sizes and concentrations.
The Contribution of the “Extrinsic” Polarizations to the Dielectric Tunability of Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)1−xTixO3 Relaxor Ferroelectrics
Authors: Peng Biaolin , Fan Huiqing , Zhang Qi
Published: January 2012

Pure perovskite Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)1−xTixO3 (x = 0, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, 0.09) ceramics were prepared using a two‐stage solid state reaction process. With the increase of Ti content, the dielectric tunability and dielectric loss at x = 0.09, 25 kV/cm and 300 K reached a maximum 91% and 0.09, respectively. High dielectric tunability 82% with low dielectric loss 0.007 was obtained at x = 0.05, indicating that it is a promising tunable material. The Lorentz fit of the temperature dependence of the dielectric permittivity and the measurement of the temperature dependence of the depolarization current density showed that polar nanoregions are related to the dielectric tunability properties of these relaxor ferroelectric ceramics. The Landau‐Ginsberg‐Devonshire and multipolarization‐mechanism model fitted results of the electric field dependence of the dielectric permittivity showed that the contribution of the “extrinsic” polarizations including “reorientation of nanopolar clusters” and the “motion of the cluster interphase boundaries or domain‐wall motions” to the dielectric tunability properties increased with the increase of Ti content. These results provide a clear understanding to the complicated dielectric response in a family of high‐tunability ceramics and a key to the high tunability of ferroelectrics with low loss under dc electric field.
Obstetric near‐miss cases among women admitted to intensive care units in Italy
Authors: DONATI SERENA , SENATORE SABRINA , RONCONI ALESSANDRA ,   the Regional Maternal Mortality Working Group
Published: January 2012

Objective. Maternal near‐miss defines a narrow category of morbidity encompassing potentially life‐threatening episodes. The purpose of this study was to detect near‐miss instances among women admitted to intensive care units or coronary units, analyze associated causes, and compute absolute and specific maternal morbidity rates in six Italian regions. Design. Observational retrospective study. Setting. Six Italian regions representing 49% of all resident Italian women aged 15–49 years. Population. The study population included all pregnant women aged 15–49 years admitted to intensive care units or coronary care units in the participating regions. Cases were defined as women aged 15–49 years resident in the participating regions, with one or more hospitalizations in intensive care for pregnancy or any pregnancy outcome between 2004 and 2005. Methods. Cases were identified through the Hospital Discharge Database. Enrolled cases were diagnosed according to the 9th International Classification of Diseases. Main outcome measure. Maternal near‐miss rate (number of women experiencing an admission to intensive care units/all women with live or stillborn babies). Results. A total of 1259 near‐miss cases were identified and the total maternal near‐miss rate was 2.0/1000 deliveries. Seventy percent of the women were admitted to intensive care units or coronary units after a cesarean section. The leading associated risk factors were obstetric hemorrhage/disseminated intravascular coagulation (40%) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (29%). Conclusions. Monitoring of near‐miss morbidity in conjunction with mortality surveillance could help to identify effective preventive measures for potentially life‐threatening episodes.
Lipoxin A4 Inhibits the Development of Endometriosis in Mice: The Role of Anti‐Inflammation and Anti‐Angiogenesis
Authors: Xu Zhangye , Zhao Feng , Lin Feng , Chen Jinxia , Huang Yingping
Published: January 2012

Problem

To evaluate the effects of the anti‐inflammatory and anti‐angiogenic roles of LXA4 on endometriosis in mice.

Method of study

Endometriosis was induced in 40 mice and separated into two groups. LXA4 group was administered by LXA4 for 3 weeks. The endometriotic lesions were counted, measured, and identified by pathology. The presence of a panel of pro‐inflammatory factors was assessed by real‐time RT‐PCR, and enzyme‐linked immunoassay, the mRNA, protein levels of matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were determined by real‐time RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry; the activity of MMPs was evaluated by gelatin zymography.

Results

Treatment with LXA4 significantly inhibited endometriotic lesion development (13.58 ± 4.01 mm2 in LXA4 group and 23.20 ± 7.49 mm2, P = 0.0002), downregulated pro‐inflammatory factors, suppressed the activity of MMP9, and reduced the VEGF levels associated with endometriosis in mice.

Conclusion

LXA4 may inhibit the progression of endometriosis possibly by anti‐inflammation and anti‐angiogenesis.
Keratocystic odontogenic tumors and Carnoy’s solution: results and complications assessment
Authors: Ribeiro Junior O , Borba AM , Alves CAF , de Gouveia MM , Coracin FL , Guimarães Júnior J.
Published: January 2012

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 548–557

Objective:  Keratocystic odontogenic tumors (KOTs) can be treated with Carnoy’s solution, although this treatment modality is not free from complications. It is important to verify the incidence of complications after the use of Carnoy’s solution and compare these with the literature.

Materials and methods:  This study verified the effects of a complementary treatment for KOTs and assessed the incidence of such complications as recurrence, infection, sequestrum formation, mandibular fracture, dehiscence, and neuropathy.

Results:  Twenty‐two KOTs treated with Carnoy’s solution combined with peripheral ostectomy were included, and the follow‐up period varied from 12 to 78 months with a mean of 42.9 months. Complications included recurrence (4.5%), dehiscence (22.7%), infection (4.5%), and paresthesia (18.2%). No difference was found among lesions associated (9.1%) or not (0%) with nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome (P > 0.05). Dehiscence was influenced by marsupialization (P < 0.05), and paresthesia was observed exclusively in cases of mandibular canal fenestration (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:  Complementary treatment with Carnoy’s solution and peripheral ostectomy appear to provide efficient treatment for KOTs. Complications originating from the use of the solution are less frequent and less serious than complications associated with cryotherapy. Neuropathy seems to be related to direct contact between the solution and the epineurium.
Retracted: Translation and validation of the Hindi version of the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index
Authors: Deshmukh Saee Prasad , Radke Usha M.
Published: January 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00609.x

Translation and validation of the Hindi version of the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index

Purpose:  To translate the original English version of the Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) into Hindi and assess its validity and reliability for use among people in India.

Materials and Method:  After translation into Hindi, a total of 385 participants aged 55+ demonstrated acceptable validity and reliability when used for people in India. Individual GOHAI items were recorded and summed as originally recommended. The questionnaire sought information about socio‐demographic characteristics and self‐reported perception of general and oral health. Clinical examination included assessment of periodontal status and number of decayed teeth, missing teeth, filled teeth and crowned teeth.

Result:  Mean GOHAI score was 40.9 (SD, 10.6; range, 12–60). Cronbach’s alpha for the GOHAI score was 0.88, indicating a high degree of internal consistency and homogeneity between the GOHAI items. The test–retest correlation coefficient for add‐GOHAI scores was 0.72, indicating good stability. Add‐GOHAI scores increased with poorer perceived general and oral health. Convergent validity, construct validity and discriminant validity of the GOHAI were demonstrated.

Conclusion:  It could therefore be used as a valuable instrument for measuring oral health–related quality of life for people in this region.
Xanthine oxidase‐generated hydrogen peroxide is a consequence, not a mediator of cell death
Authors: Czupryna Julie , Tsourkas Andrew
Published: January 2012

Oxidative stress has been associated with a wide range of diseases including atherosclerosis, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. When present in excessive concentrations, reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause deleterious effects. This has led to the notion that the anticancer effects of various chemotherapeutics may be mediated, at least in part, by an increase in ROS. To investigate the role of xanthine oxidase (XO), a source of hydrogen peroxide, in cell death, MCF7, HeLa and 293T cells were treated with various cell‐death‐inducing drugs in the presence and absence of allopurinol, a specific inhibitor of XO. In the absence of allopurinol, each drug led to a time‐ and concentration‐dependent increase in percent DNA fragmentation and ROS levels, regardless of the mechanism of cell death incurred, i.e. caspase dependent and caspase independent. By contrast, pretreatment with allopurinol led to dramatically lower ROS levels in all cases, suggesting that XO is a major contributor to oxidative stress. However, allopurinol did not exhibit a protective effect against cell death. Similarly, the administration of siRNA against XO also did not exhibit a protective effect against cell death. The level of oxidative stress was recorded using the ROS sensor CM‐H2DCFDA and a ratiometric bioluminescent assay that takes advantage of the increased sensitivity of Firefly luciferase to hydrogen peroxide, compared with a stable variant of Renilla luciferase (RLuc), RLuc8. Overall, these findings suggest that XO‐generated hydrogen peroxide, and perhaps hydrogen peroxide in general, is a consequence, but not a mediator of cell death.