bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STUDY OF 48-Ca DOUBLE BETA DECAY
Authors: KISHIMOTO TADAFUMI
Published: December 2009

Neutrino-less double beta decay (0νββ) is currently known to be only experiment to verify whether lepton number conservation is violated. The violation is the key to create matter dominated universe by the so-called Leptogenesys. We have been studying double beta decay of 48 Ca . First stage of the experiment was carried out by using the ELEGANT VI detector system. We gave the best lower limit of the half life of 0νββ of 48 Ca . We have been developing CANDLES detector system to sense much longer life-time region. We have developed techniques to reduce further backgrounds. One of the techniques has been used in the ELEGANTS VI system and improved further the half life limit. The CADLES detector system will be installed Kamioka underground laboratory next year. I describe these studies.
CHIRAL DYNAMICS, STRUCTURE OF Λ(1405), AND $\bar{K}N$ PHENOMENOLOGY
Authors: HYODO TETSUO
Published: December 2009

We investigate the structure of the Λ(1405) resonance and [Formula: see text] phenomenology in the perspective of chiral SU(3) dynamics. Utilizing the chiral coupled-channel approach which well describes the [Formula: see text] scattering observable, we perform three different analyses to clarify the structure of the Λ(1405) resonance. The results consistently indicate the meson-baryon molecule picture of the Λ(1405). We argue the consequence of the chiral dynamics in [Formula: see text] phenomenology and the antikaon bound state in nucleus, emphasizing the important role of the strong πΣ interaction.
FORMATION OF η-MESIC NUCLEI BY (π, N) REACTION AND CHIRAL SYMMETRY FOR BARYONS
Authors: NAGAHIRO HIDEKO , JIDO DAISUKE , HIRENZAKI SATORU
Published: December 2009

We calculate formation spectra of η-nucleus systems in (π, N) reactions with nuclear targets, which can be performed at existing and/or forthcoming facilities, including J-PARC, in order to investigate η-nucleus interactions. Based on the N*(1535) dominance in the ηN system, η-mesic nuclei are suitable systems for study of in-medium properties of the N*(1535) baryon resonance, such as reduction of the mass difference of N and N* in nuclear medium, which affects level structure of the η and N*-hole modes. We find that clear information on the in-medium N*- and η-nucleus interactions can be obtained through the formation spectra of the η-mesic nuclei.
IMPROVING THE SUCCESS PROBABILITY OF REMOTE STATE PREPARATION BY USING PARTIAL CLASSICAL KNOWLEDGE
Authors: LIN MIN , ZHANG MING , ZHOU WEI-WEI , DAI HONG-YI
Published: December 2009

We present a modified scheme for probabilistic remote preparation of a single qubit when partial classical knowledge of preparing state is available for the receiver. This is in contrast with the previous remote state preparation schemes that the receiver has no classical knowledge of preparing state. It is demonstrated that the total success probability of remote state preparation will be greatly improved when the receiver has partial classical knowledge of preparing state.
ENTANGLEMENT PROPERTIES OF ADIABATIC QUANTUM ALGORITHMS
Authors: WEN JIAYAN , HUANG YI , QIU DAOWEN
Published: December 2009

In this paper, by constructing a more entangled quantum system, we shorten the adiabatic quantum search algorithm to constant time. On the other hand, we show that the speed-up of adiabatic quantum algorithms by selecting particular adiabatic evolution paths or injecting energy into the quantum system can be explained as a form of entanglement enlargement. These findings suggest that entanglement plays a fundamental role for the efficiency of algorithm performance.
HOW TO EXPLOIT LOCAL INFORMATION WHEN DISTILLING ENTANGLEMENT
Authors: CAMPBELL EARL T.
Published: December 2009

Distillation protocols enable generation of high quality entanglement even in the presence of noise. Existing protocols ignore the presence of local information in mixed states produced from some noise sources such as photon loss, amplitude damping or thermalization. We propose new protocols that exploit local information in mixed states. Our protocols converge to higher fidelities in fewer rounds, and when local information is significant one of our protocols consistently improves yields by 10 fold or more. We demonstrate that our protocols can be compacted into an entanglement-pumping scheme, allowing quantum computation in distributed systems with a few qubits per location.
BMP2 promotes differentiation of nitrergic and catecholaminergic enteric neurons through a Smad1-dependent pathway
Authors: Anitha Mallappa , Shahnavaz Nikrad , Qayed Emad , Joseph Irene , Gossrau Gudrun , Mwangi Simon , Sitaraman Shanthi V. , Greene James G. , Srinivasan Shanthi
Published: December 2009

The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family is a class of transforming growth factor (TGF-β) superfamily molecules that have been implicated in neuronal differentiation. We studied the effects of BMP2 and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) on inducing differentiation of enteric neurons and the signal transduction pathways involved. Studies were performed using a novel murine fetal enteric neuronal cell line (IM-FEN) and primary enteric neurons. Enteric neurons were cultured in the presence of vehicle, GDNF (100 ng/ml), BMP2 (10 ng/ml), or both (GDNF + BMP2), and differentiation was assessed by neurite length, markers of neuronal differentiation (neurofilament medium polypeptide and β-III-tubulin), and neurotransmitter expression [neuropeptide Y (NPY), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) and Substance P]. BMP2 increased the differentiation of enteric neurons compared with vehicle and GDNF-treated neurons ( P < 0.001). BMP2 increased the expression of the mature neuronal markers ( P < 0.05). BMP2 promoted differentiation of NPY-, nNOS-, and TH-expressing neurons ( P < 0.001) but had no effect on the expression of cholinergic neurons (ChAT, Substance P). Neurons cultured in the presence of BMP2 have higher numbers of TH-expressing neurons after exposure to 1-methyl 4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) compared with those cultured with MPP+alone ( P < 0.01). The Smad signal transduction pathway has been implicated in TGF-β signaling. BMP2 induced phosphorylation of Smad1, and the effects of BMP2 on differentiation of enteric neurons were significantly reduced in the presence of Smad1 siRNA, implicating the role of Smad1 in BMP2-induced differentiation. The effects of BMP2 on catecholaminergic neurons may have therapeutic implications in gastrointestinal motility disturbances.
Inhibition of soluble epoxide hydrolase preserves cardiomyocytes: role of STAT3 signaling
Authors: Merkel Matthias J. , Liu Lijuan , Cao Zhiping , Packwood William , Young Jennifer , Alkayed Nabil J. , Van Winkle Donna M.
Published: December 2009

Soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) metabolizes epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs), primarily 14,15-EET. EETs are derived from arachidonic acid via P-450 epoxygenases and are cardioprotective. We tested the hypothesis that sEH deficiency and pharmacological inhibition elicit tolerance to ischemia via EET-mediated STAT3 signaling in vitro and in vivo. In addition, the relevance of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of EPHX2 (the gene encoding sEH) on tolerance to oxygen and glucose deprivation and reoxygenation and glucose repletion (OGD/RGR) was assessed in male C57BL\6J (WT) or sEH knockout (sEHKO) cardiomyocytes by using transactivator of transcription (TAT)-mediated transduction with sEH mutant proteins. Cell death and hydrolase activity was lower in Arg287Gln EPHX2 mutants vs. nontransduced controls. Excess 14,15-EET and SEH inhibition did not improve cell survival in Arg287Gln mutants. In WT cells, the putative EET receptor antagonist, 14,15-EEZE, abolished the effect of 14,15-EET and sEH inhibition. Cotreatment with 14,15-EET and SEH inhibition did not provide increased protection. In vitro, STAT3 inhibition blocked 14,15-EET cytoprotection, but not the effect of SEH inhibition. However, STAT3 small interfering RNA (siRNA) abolished cytoprotection by 14,15-EET and sEH inhibition, but cells pretreated with JAK2 siRNA remained protected. In vivo, STAT3 inhibition abolished 14,15-EET-mediated infarct size reduction. In summary, the Arg287Gln mutation is associated with improved tolerance against ischemia in vitro, and inhibition of sEH preserves cardiomyocyte viability following OGD/RGR via an EET-dependent mechanism. In vivo and in vitro, 14,15-EET-mediated protection is mediated in part by STAT3.
Resting and exercise-induced IL-6 levels in children with Type 1 diabetes reflect hyperglycemic profiles during the previous 3 days
Authors: Rosa Jaime S. , Flores Rebecca L. , Oliver Stacy R. , Pontello Andria M. , Zaldivar Frank P. , Galassetti Pietro R.
Published: December 2009

Poor glycemic control in Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) causes long-term cardiovascular complications, at least in part via chronic, low-grade inflammation associated with recurrent hyperglycemia. While physical activity can reduce both inflammation and cardiovascular risks, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. This is particularly important for T1DM children, for whom the prevention of long-term cardiovascular complications must include optimization of exercise-related anti-inflammatory strategies. We therefore studied the effect of prior hyperglycemia on resting and exercise-induced inflammatory status (plasma IL-6) in T1DM children. Glycemia was continuously recorded with a continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) system for 63 h preceding a 30-min intermittent cycling exercise protocol at ∼80% peak rate of oxygen uptake (V̇o2max). Euglycemia (4.4–6.1 mM) was maintained for 90 min before, during, and 30 min after exercise. IL-6 plasma concentration (pg/ml) was measured at baseline, at end exercise, and 30 min postexercise. Subjects were then divided into quartiles based on average glycemia during the CGMS recording. IL-6 levels (pg/ml) were lowest in the quartile with lowest average 3-day glycemia and increased proportionally to greater hyperglycemic exposure; this was observed at baseline (0.86 ± 0.10, 1.06 ± 0.16, 1.14 ± 0.14, 1.20 ± 0.16), absolute IL-6 change (Δ) at end exercise (0.20 ± 0.16, 0.32 ± 0.10, 0.48 ± 0.09, 0.62 ± 0.13), and Δ at 30 min postexercise (0.49 ± 0.13, 0.71 ± 0.16, 0.89 ± 0.14, 1.38 ± 0.33). Therefore, poorly controlled glycemic profile, even in the 63 h preceding an exercise challenge, can alter inflammatory adaptation in T1DM children. Our data underscore the necessity to fully understand all molecular aspects of physical activity to provide the scientific rationale for exercise regimens that will be able to maximize health benefits for T1DM children.
Force depression in single myofibrils
Authors: Joumaa V. , Herzog W.
Published: December 2009

Force depression after active shortening has been observed in different muscle preparations. It has been assumed that force depression is caused by the development of sarcomere length nonuniformities after shortening. However, this hypothesis has never been investigated in a preparation where individual sarcomere lengths could be directly measured. Here, we investigated force depression in single myofibrils ( n = 11) and tracked simultaneously the changes in individual sarcomere lengths ( n = 60) before, during, and after shortening and after a purely isometric contraction performed at the final length. Shortening produced force depression in all myofibrils (mean ± SE; 30.9 ± 3.9%). During shortening, all sarcomeres shortened, but not by the same amount. Sarcomere lengths were nonuniform, with the same mean SD before (0.11 ± 0.06 μm) and after shortening (0.11 ± 0.06 μm) and after a purely isometric contraction at the final length (0.10 ± 0.05 μm). Furthermore, greater shortening magnitudes were found for sarcomeres that were long in the initial isometric configuration. Nonuniformities of half-sarcomere lengths were also the same before (SD = 0.13 μm) and after (SD = 0.14 μm) shortening. We conclude from these results that the development of sarcomere (or half-sarcomere) length nonuniformities does not play a major role in force depression. Rather, force depression seems an intrinsic property of individual (half-) sarcomeres and muscle contraction.
Emerging New Infections: Importance in Child Health
Authors: van Seventer Jean M. , DeLoureiro Amanda , Hamer Davidson H.
Published: December 2009

A complex interplay of environmental and human factors, including ecological, genetic, political and socioeconomic factors, is responsible for the emergence and re-emergence of infectious diseases. These factors often have a distinct effect on children and, as a result, emerging infections can have unique impacts on younger populations in terms of both physical health and mental as well as social wellbeing. Children are the most vulnerable members of our society. In order to best protect them from the impact of emerging infectious diseases, it is imperative to understand how factors that determine disease emergence and emerging diseases themselves can affect the young. This will allow us to focus on the most appropriate measures to not only prevent infection of pediatric populations but also prepare for the treatment and care of children when an infectious disease emerges. Influenza is a prototypical emerging/re-emerging infectious disease. Epidemic influenza re-emerges annually in periods between influenza pandemics. Both epidemic and pandemic influenza can have considerable impacts on the wellbeing of children. For over a decade, we have anticipated the mutation of avian influenza (H5N1) into a virus that can be efficiently transmitted between humans. This has resulted in substantial efforts to prepare for a virulent influenza pandemic. Although the pandemic potential of avian influenza has not (yet) been realized, efforts to prepare for a widespread pandemic have not been in vain. The unexpected emergence and rapid spread of the swine flu [influenza A(H1N1)v] has resulted in a worldwide pandemic that has already had profound effects on children and adults. Schools, day care centers, modern transport and international travel have all facilitated the spread of this new influenza strain. Swine flu exemplifies well how environmental and human factors interact to result in the emergence of an infectious disease with unique impacts on children.
Emerging Fungal Infections
Authors: Garnica Marcia , Nucci Marcio
Published: December 2009

The epidemiology of invasive fungal infections is evolving. Yeasts other than Candida albicans and moulds other than Aspergillus fumigatus have emerged as significant causes of invasive mycoses in severely immunocompromised patients. Whereas in some instances these changes may be related to medical interventions, such as the use of prophylactic antifungal agents, in the majority of cases, they seem to be a consequence of changes in the host. More severe immunosuppression or different types of immune suppression impact both risk and the infections that occur. These factors have altered the epidemiology of infection in organ transplant recipients, premature newborns and critically ill patients. Our review discusses the epidemiology of some fungal infections that have emerged in the past few years, with an emphasis on the potential factors associated with their emergence and on practical implications of these epidemiological changes. In addition, some special characteristics noted in children and neonates are addressed separately.
Evaluation of the Usability of a Brief Computerized Cognitive Screening Test in Older People for Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Fredrickson J. , Maruff P. , Woodward M. , Moore L. , Fredrickson A. , Sach J. , Darby D.
Published: December 2009

Background: Computerized cognitive testing has the potential to be an effective way to assess and monitor cognition in large neuroepidemiological studies. CogState is a game-like computerized test with demonstrated validity and reliability that has shown sensitivity to decline in older individuals over time. This study aimed to evaluate the serial usability of the test specifically within an older community cohort. Methods: The test battery was administered to healthy volunteers aged 50 years and above at 3-month intervals over 12 months in a community setting. Test usability was examined in terms of acceptability, efficiency and stability. Results: Of 301 subjects (age: 61.9 ± 7.2 years), 87% completed the study. In addition, 85% completed the first test within the allowed time and passed integrity criteria with their performance improving and stabilizing at subsequent visits. The computerized battery required 15 min for administration on average, allowing 263 patients to be assessed on 5 occasions by 2 assessors. All tasks showed stability and a high test-retest reliability with serial administration. Conclusions: This computerized test was shown to have good acceptability, efficiency and stability for the repeated assessment of cognitive function in older people. Together with its demonstrated sensitivity to cognitive impairment and cognitive change, these data suggest that it would be a useful tool for application in neuroepidemiological studies.
Metabolic Syndrome and Cognition in Patients with Manifest Atherosclerotic Disease: The SMART Study
Authors: Muller Majon , van Raamt Fleur , Visseren Frank L.J. , Kalmijn Sandra , Geerlings Mirjam I. , Mali Willem P.T.M. , van der Graaf Yolanda
Published: December 2009

Background: It is unclear whether the metabolic syndrome (MetS) increases risk of cognitive dysfunction beyond the level expected from its individual components. We examined the association of MetS with cognitive dysfunction and assessed whether MetS increased risk of cognitive dysfunction more than that of the sum of its individual components. Methods: Data on 823 participants were used from the SMART-study, a cohort study among patients with atherosclerotic disease. MetS was defined according to the NCEP-ATPIII-criteria. Neuropsychological tests assessing memory, executive, and visuospatial functioning were performed. Regression analyses were performed to assess the association of MetS and its individual components with cognitive dysfunction. To examine whether MetS increased risk of cognitive dysfunction beyond its individual components we tested whether there was interaction on an additive scale by calculating the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI). Results: MetS was associated with increased risk of memory (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.1–3.3) and visuospatial dysfunction (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.4–2.7) but not with executive dysfunction. However, risk of memory and visuospatial dysfunction for having all MetS components was not greater than that of the sum of the individual components (RERI 0.2 and –0.9). Conclusions: In this population, MetS is related to increased risk of cognitive dysfunction but not more than that of the sum of its individual components.
Mortality and Predictors of Death 1 Month and 3 Years after First-Ever Ischemic Stroke: Data from the First National Acute Stroke Israeli Survey (NASIS 2004)
Authors: Koton Silvia , Tanne David , Green Manfred S. , Bornstein Natan M.
Published: December 2009

Background: Despite declining age-adjusted stroke mortality rates, the disease remains the third most common cause of death in Israel. Based on a national survey, we examined mortality rates during the first 3 years after a first-ever acute ischemic stroke (IS) and the major predictors of short-term (1 month) and long-term (3 years) mortality. Methods: In the National Acute Stroke Israeli Survey (NASIS 2004), data were collected on all hospitalized stroke patients in Israel during a 2-month period. Mortality rates for first-ever IS were assessed at 1 month and 3 years and predictors of death were evaluated using the Cox proportional hazard model. Results: A total of 1,079 first-ever IS patients were included. Survival data were complete for over 99% of patients. Cumulative mortality rates were 9.9% at 1 month and 31.1% at 3 years. Of the survivors at 1 month, 23.5% did not survive for 3 years. At 1 month, the hazard ratio (HR) for death significantly increased with stroke severity. One-month mortality was also associated with a decreased level of consciousness (HR 2.9, 95% CI 1.7–5.1), total anterior circulation infarction (TACI); HR 4.9, 95% CI 1.6–15.2), temperature on admission (HR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.1 per 1°C), age (HR 1.04, 95% CI 1.02–1.07 per year) and glucose levels on admission (HR 1.003, 95% CI 1.001–1.006 per 1 mg/dl). Age-adjusted proportions of diabetes and chronic heart failure were considerably higher in the deceased compared with survivors at 3 years (48 vs. 38 and 21 vs. 9%, respectively). In the multivariate survival analyses, predictors of death at 1 month also predicted death at 3 years; however, history of dementia (HR 1.5, 95% CI 1.0–2.4), diabetes (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.0–2.4), peripheral artery disease (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1–2.8), chronic heart failure (HR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1–2.4) and malignancy (HR 1.7, 95% CI 1.1–2.7) were additional predictors of long-term mortality for patients surviving the first month after stroke. Conclusions: Approximately one third of patients did not survive 3 years after the first-ever IS. While age and markers of severe stroke were the major predictors of death at 1 month, comorbidities and variables associated with atherosclerotic vascular disease predicted long-term mortality. Improved control of these factors can potentially reduce long-term mortality in stroke victims.
Hypertension Increases the Probability of Alzheimer’s Disease and of Mild Cognitive Impairment in an Arab Community in Northern Israel
Authors: Israeli-Korn S.D. , Masarwa M. , Schechtman E. , Abuful A. , Strugatsky R. , Avni S. , Farrer L.A. , Friedland R.P. , Inzelberg R.
Published: December 2009

Background: We aimed to determine whether vascular risk factors are associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in an elderly Arab population. Methods: An Arabic-speaking team performed a door-to-door survey of consecutive residents aged ≧65 years. We estimated the odds of AD or MCI versus normal controls as a function of age, gender, education and presence of vascular factors by multinomial logistic regression with interactions. Results: Out of 767 subjects (54% men), 444 were cognitively normal, 234 had MCI and 89 had AD. AD was significantly associated with hypertension (p = 0.01; OR = 2.08; 95% CI: 1.18–3.65), age (p < 0.0001; OR = 1.19; 95% CI: 1.14–1.24), female gender (p = 0.0016; OR = 3.06; 95% CI: 1.53–6.15) and education (p = 0.0002; OR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.65–0.88). MCI was significantly associated with hypertension (p = 0.0042; OR = 1.69; 95% CI: 1.25–2.44), age (p < 0.0001; OR = 1.06; 95% CI: 1.03–1.09) and education (p < 0.0001; OR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.71–0.83), but not with gender. Conclusions: Hypertension, older age and low education significantly increase the probability of AD and MCI. The effect of hypertension on the odds of AD versus controls is over and above the effects of age, gender and education. For MCI versus controls there is no gender effect, and the effect of hypertension is over and above the effects of age and education.
Ultrasound Experience Substantially Impacts on Diagnostic Performance and Confidence when Adnexal Masses Are Classified Using Pattern Recognition
Authors: Van Holsbeke Caroline , Daemen Anneleen , Yazbek Joseph , Holland Tom K. , Bourne Tom , Mesens Tinne , Lannoo Lore , Boes Anne-Sophie , Joos Annelies , Van De Vijver Arne , Roggen Nele , de Moor Bart , de Jonge Eric , Testa Antonia C. , Valentin Lil , Jurkovic Davor , Timmerman Dirk
Published: December 2009

Aim: To determine how accurately and confidently examiners with different levels of ultrasound experience can classify adnexal masses as benign or malignant and suggest a specific histological diagnosis when evaluating ultrasound images using pattern recognition. Methods: Ultrasound images of selected adnexal masses were evaluated by 3 expert sonologists, 2 senior and 4 junior trainees. They were instructed to classify the masses using pattern recognition as benign or malignant, to state the level of confidence with which this classification was made and to suggest a specific histological diagnosis. Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy and positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR–) with regard to malignancy were calculated. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of pattern recognition was calculated by using six levels of diagnostic confidence. Results: 166 masses were examined, of which 42% were malignant. Sensitivity with regard to malignancy ranged from 80 to 86% for the experts, was 70 and 84% for the 2 senior trainees and ranged from 70 to 86% for the junior trainees. The specificity of the experts ranged from 79 to 91%, was 77 and 89% for the senior trainees and ranged from 59 to 83% for the junior trainees. The experts were uncertain about their diagnosis in 4–13% of the cases, the senior trainees in 15–20% and the junior trainees in 67–100% of the cases. The AUCs ranged from 0.861 to 0.922 for the experts, were 0.842 and 0.855 for the senior trainees, and ranged from 0.726 to 0.795 for the junior trainees. The experts suggested a correct specific histological diagnosis in 69–77% of the cases. All 6 trainees did so significantly less often (22–42% of the cases). Conclusion: Expert sonologists can accurately classify adnexal masses as benign or malignant and can successfully predict the specific histological diagnosis in many cases. Whilst less experienced operators perform reasonably well when predicting the benign or malignant nature of the mass, they do so with a very low level of diagnostic confidence and are unable to state the likely histology of a mass in most cases.
Doxorubicin Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Chatterjee Kanu , Zhang Jianqing , Honbo Norman , Karliner Joel S.
Published: December 2009

Established doxorubicin cardiomyopathy is a lethal disease. When congestive heart failure develops, mortality is approximately 50%. Extensive research has been done to understand the mechanism and pathophysiology of doxorubicin cardiomyopathy, and considerable knowledge and experience has been gained. Unfortunately, no effective treatment for established doxorubicin cardiomyopathy is presently available. Extensive research has been done and is being done to discover preventive treatments. However an effective and clinically applicable preventive treatment is yet to be discovered.
Prevalence of Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy in Nursing Home Residents – A Nationwide Survey in Germany
Authors: Wirth R. , Bauer J.M. , Willschrei H.P. , Volkert D. , Sieber C.C.
Published: December 2009

Background: Despite extensive discussion about percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) in nursing home residents, no prevalence data exist in most countries. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PEG in German nursing homes, as well as nursing home characteristics that may influence this prevalence. Additionally, we documented the timing of PEG insertion, whether pre- or post-admission to the nursing home, and the proportion of residents receiving oral nutrition in addition to tube feeds. Methods: A 26-item questionnaire was sent to 6,995 German nursing homes. Responses were anonymous. Results: Of the 6,995 questionnaires sent out, 807 (11.5%) were completed and returned. Of the 66,507 total residents in the responding nursing homes, there were 4,390 residents with PEG (6.6%). The median PEG prevalence was 5.6% (5th–95th percentile 1.0–16.3%). Of all PEGs inserted, 55.3% were inserted before and 44.7% were inserted after nursing home admission. Oral beverage intake in addition to tube feeding was reported in 48.8% of residents with a PEG, and 43.5% of patients also received solid food. There were no significant differences in PEG prevalence between the federal states of Germany. The location (rural vs. urban) of the nursing home, its proprietor and food delivery method had no significant influence on PEG prevalence. With regard only to PEG tubes inserted after nursing home admission, all the factors stated above showed no significant influence on PEG prevalence. Weak positive correlations between PEG prevalence and the size of the nursing home as well as the number of total and certified nursing staff per resident could be detected, reflecting the heavy burden of care associated with residents requiring artificial nutrition. Conclusions: Compared to other countries, Germany can be assumed to have an average PEG prevalence in nursing home residents. No specific nursing home characteristics could be identified that affect PEG prevalence.
Research on Ageing, Health and Gender: A Long and Winding Road
Authors: Perrig-Chiello Pasqualina , Hutchison Sara
Published: December 2009

This contribution is a reply to Dr. Månsdotter’s comments on our discussion paper ‘Health and well-being in old age: the pertinence of a gender mainstreaming approach in research’ published in Gerontology [Gerontology 2010 (in press)]. Even though the comments are interesting and comprehensible, they cannot be left unanswered, this primarily because they are based on weak empirical evidence. (1) It is broadly uncontested that gender is not static. However, the conclusion that the more egalitarian division of parental duties can be viewed as an indicator for reduction of the gender gap in longevity and health is highly speculative. There is not enough empirical evidence to substantiate this position. (2) The ‘caring hypothesis’ proposed by Månsdotter, which holds that caring fathers develop less risky lifestyles and increased worries, is a possible, but not a sufficient explanation for gender convergence of physical and psychological health in future generations. Such a convergence seems to be heavily co-determined by the changing lifestyles of women. (3) From a lifespan developmental perspective, androgyny does not mean gender equality, but a necessary openness of an individual for the positive traits of the opposing gender role, an essential trait for successful ageing. (4) Månsdotter’s doubts concerning the implementation of gender mainstreaming in gerontological research and practice because of society’s limited resources are not comprehensible. Exactly because economical resources are limited, and exactly because men and women have different resources and disadvantages due to their specific bio-psycho-social realities, the most efficient way of dealing with the gender gaps in health is with a differentialapproach. (5) The concluding recommendation of Månsdotter for more openness as a scientific position regarding the impact of gender roles on human health and well-being stands in contrast to her claim for normative standpoints and prioritization of either women or men in health promotion. We certainly need openness as a scientific position, but what we urgently need are good theoretical frameworks and more interdisciplinary and longitudinal approaches, which help to overcome the thin empirical base we have. This is a challenge and a chance for future research.
Medical Imaging of Mummies and Bog Bodies – A Mini-Review
Authors: Lynnerup Niels
Published: December 2009

Mummies are human remains with preservation of non-bony tissue. Mummification by natural influences results in so-called natural mummies, while mummification induced by active (human) intervention results in so-called artificial mummies, although many cultures practiced burial rites which to some degree involved both natural and artificial mummification. Since they are so uniquely well-preserved, mummies may give many insights into mortuary practices and burial rites. Specifically, the presence of soft tissues may expand the scope of paleopathological studies. Many recent mummy studies have focused on the development and application of non-destructive methods for examining mummies, especially radiography and CT scanning with advanced 3D visualizations. Indeed, the development of commercially available CT scanners in the 1970s meant that for the first time the 3D internal structure of mummies and bog bodies could be studied non-destructively. This article describes the history of mummy radiography and CT scanning, and some of the problems and opportunities involved in applying these techniques, derived for clinical use, on naturally and artificially preserved ancient human bodies. Unless severely degraded, bone is quite readily visualized, but accurate imaging of preserved soft tissues, and pathological lesions therein, may require considerable post-image capture processing of CT data.
Nail Matrix Melanoma in situ: Conservative Surgical Management
Authors: Duarte Ana Filipa , Correia Osvaldo , Barros Ana Margarida , Azevedo Rosa , Haneke Eckart
Published: December 2009

Background: Nail unit melanoma (NUM) is a rare variant of acral lentiginous melanoma. The differential diagnosis is wide but an acquired brown streak in the nail of a fair-skinned person must be considered a potential melanoma. Dermatoscopy helps clinicians to more accurately decide if a nail apparatus biopsy is necessary. Methods: We report the case of a 61-year-old Caucasian woman with melanonychia occupying the central portion of the right thumbnail plate with 1 year of evolution. Dermatoscopy showed a brown pigmentation overlaid by longitudinal irregular lines. An excisional biopsy was performed, and pathological examination revealed melanoma in situ. For safety reasons, the nail unit was totally removed down to the phalangeal bone 3 weeks later, and a full-thickness skin graft taken from the arm was used for reconstruction. Conclusion: NUMs pose a difficult treatment challenge. Wide excision with phalanx amputation is not satisfactory for patients with in situ and early invasive melanoma. Full-thickness skin grafting after total nail unit excision is a simple procedure providing a good functional and cosmetic outcome.
Ectoparasites from Feral Pigeons Affecting Humans
Authors: Haag-Wackernagel Daniel , Bircher Andreas J.
Published: December 2009

Feral pigeons pose a considerable health risk to the human population. They are vectors of infectious diseases and source of antigens causing allergic diseases. Breeding and roosting sites of pigeons harbor parasites that may infest humans. In the present article, a concomitant parasitization of a young female with 3 different ectoparasites, the bedbug Cimex lectularius, the pigeon tick Argas reflexus and the red mite Dermanyssus gallinae, is reported. The parasites invaded the apartment from a balcony used as roost by feral pigeons and infested the patient continuously over a period of more than 2 months. To our knowledge this case presents the first record of a coincidental infestation of a single patient with several ectoparasite species deriving from feral pigeons. Additionally we report general symptoms in the patient probably caused by the high number of stings. Dermatologists should be aware of the possibility of an infestation with ectoparasites deriving from feral pigeons. In a review we give an overview on the most important ectoparasites transmitted from feral pigeons to humans and their importance for the dermatologist.
Differential Effects of Paricalcitol and Calcitriol on Intestinal Calcium Absorption in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Lund Richard J. , Andress Dennis L. , Amdahl Michael , Williams Laura A. , Heaney Robert P.
Published: December 2009

Background/Aims: Increased parathyroid activity associated with chronic kidney disease is often managed with calcitriol, which can elevate serum calcium (Ca) by increasing bone resorption and intestinal absorption, whereas paricalcitol promotes less bone resorption. This study compared intestinal Ca absorption in hemodialysis patients treated with calcitriol versus paricalcitol (dose ratio 1:3). Methods: Patients (n = 22) aged ≧20 years, on maintenance hemodialysis for ≧2 months with intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels of >200 pg/ml were enrolled in a single-center, double-blind, active-controlled, randomized, crossover trial. Mean fractional intestinal Ca absorption (±SE) was measured by the single-tracer method (42Ca) and evaluated with an analysis of variance crossover model. Results: Mean fractional intestinal Ca absorption was significantly lower after paricalcitol (0.135 ± 0.006) versus calcitriol treatment (0.158 ± 0.006, p = 0.022), a 0.023 difference in absolute Ca absorption fraction. Overall Ca absorption was low in the study population, indicating that regulation of Ca absorption may be dysfunctional. There were no significant differences in serum PTH, Ca, phosphorus (P), or Ca × P. Conclusion: Overall, paricalcitol-treated patients absorbed ∼14% less Ca compared with calcitriol-treated patients with similar effects on PTH. In hemodialysis patients, paricalcitol may provide a benefit by lowering the Ca available for removal by dialysis and/or for deposit in bone or soft tissues.
Role of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1α in T Cells as a Negative Regulator in Development of Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Kurobe Hirotsugu , Urata Masahisa , Ueno Masaki , Ueki Masaaki , Ono Shiro , Izawa-Ishizawa Yuki , Fukuhara Yayoi , Lei Yu , Ripen Adiratna Mat , Kanbara Tamotsu , Aihara Ken-ichi , Ishizawa Keisuke , Akaike Masashi , Gonzalez Frank J. , Tamaki Toshiaki , Takahama Yousuke , Yoshizumi Masanori , Kitagawa Tetsuya , Tomita Shuhei
Published: December 2009

Background and Purpose—

Recent studies have shown that the cellular immune response in the development of vascular remodeling modulates the resulting pathological alterations. We show that hypoxia-inducible factor 1 (Hif-1) (specifically expressed in T cells) is involved in the immune response to vascular remodeling that accompanies arteriosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

To study the role of T cells in the development of vascular remodeling, femoral arterial injury induced by an external vascular polyethylene cuff was examined in mice lacking Hif-1 (specifically in T cells). We found that cuff placement caused prominent neointimal hyperplasia of the femoral artery in Hif-1– (T-cell)–deficient mice compared with that in control mice and that infiltration of inflammatory cells at the adventitia was markedly increased in the mutant mice. Studies to clarify the mechanism of augmented vascular remodeling in the mutant mice showed enhanced production of cytokines by activated T cells and augmented antibody production in response to a T-dependent antigen in the mutant mice.

Conclusions—

The results of this study revealed that Hif-1α in T cells plays a crucial role in vascular inflammation and remodeling in response to cuff injury as a negative regulator of T cell–mediated immune response. Potential new therapeutic strategies that target Hif-1α are described.
Prostaglandin I
2
Promotes Recruitment of Endothelial Progenitor Cells and Limits Vascular Remodeling
Authors: Kawabe Jun-ichi , Yuhki Koh-ichi , Okada Motoi , Kanno Takayasu , Yamauchi Atsushi , Tashiro Naohiko , Sasaki Takaaki , Okumura Shunsuke , Nakagawa Naoki , Aburakawa Youko , Takehara Naofumi , Fujino Takayuki , Hasebe Naoyuki , Narumiya Shuh , Ushikubi Fumitaka
Published: December 2009

Objective—

Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) play an important role in the self-healing of a vascular injury by participating in the reendothelialization that limits vascular remodeling. We evaluated whether prostaglandin I
2
plays a role in the regulation of the function of EPCs to limit vascular remodeling.

Methods and Results—

EPCs (Lin
−
cKit
+
Flk-1
+
cells) were isolated from the bone marrow (BM) of wild-type (WT) mice or mice lacking the prostaglandin I
2
receptor IP (IP
−/−
mice). Reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction analysis showed that EPCs among BM cells specifically express IP. The cellular properties of EPCs, adhesion, migration, and proliferation on fibronectin were significantly attenuated in IP-deficient EPCs compared with WT EPCs. In contrast, IP agonists facilitated these functions in WT EPCs, but not in IP-deficient EPCs. The specific deletion of IP in BM cells, which was performed by transplanting BM cells of IP
−/−
mice to WT mice, accelerated wire injury–mediated neointimal hyperplasia in the femoral artery. Notably, transfused WT EPCs, but not IP-deficient EPCs, were recruited to the injured vessels, participated in reendothelialization, and efficiently rescued the accelerated vascular remodeling.

Conclusion—

These findings clearly indicate that the prostaglandin I
2
-IP system is essential for EPCs to accomplish their function and plays a critical role in the regulation of vascular remodeling.
NR2F1 and IRE1β Suppress Microsomal Triglyceride Transfer Protein Expression and Lipoprotein Assembly in Undifferentiated Intestinal Epithelial Cells
Authors: Dai Kezhi , Khatun Irani , Hussain M. Mahmood
Published: December 2009

Objective—

Our aim was to elucidate mechanisms involved in the acquisition of lipid transport properties during enterocyte differentiation.

Methods and Results—

We show that lipid mobilization via apolipoprotein B lipoproteins is dependent on the expression of microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) during differentiation of Caco-2 cells into enterocyte-like cells. Mechanistic studies showed that binding of the nuclear receptor family 2 group F member 1 (NR2F1) to the DR1 element in the
MTTP
promoter suppresses
MTTP
expression in undifferentiated cells. During cellular differentiation, NR2F1 expression and its binding to MTTP promoter decline and MTP induction ensues. Moreover, undifferentiated cells express inositol-requiring enzyme 1β (IRE1β), a protein that posttranscriptionally degrades MTP mRNA, and its expression substantially decreases during differentiation, contributing to MTP induction. Immunohistochemical studies revealed a significant negative relationship between the expressions of MTP and NR2F1/IRE1β in undifferentiated and differentiated Caco-2 cells, as well as in crypt–villus and jejunum–colon axes of mouse intestine.

Conclusion—

We propose that transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms involving NR2F1 and IRE1β ensure low MTP expression in undifferentiated intestinal cells and avoid apolipoprotein B lipoprotein biosynthesis.
A Specific Subset of Mouse Bone Marrow Cells Has Smooth Muscle Cell Differentiation Capacity–Brief Report
Authors: Metharom Pat , Kumar Arun H.S. , Weiss Sharon , Caplice Noel M.
Published: December 2009

Objective—

To determine whether CX
3
CR1
+
bone marrow cells have the capacity for smooth muscle cell (SMC) differentiation.

Methods and Results—

CX
3
CR1
+
and CX
3
CR1
−
cells were isolated from marrow of CX
3
CR1 transgenic mice and cultured in SMC differentiation media. Phenotypic and functional analyses showed only CX
3
CR1
+
bone marrow cells exhibit colony cell outgrowth with SMC-specific protein expression, calcium signaling, and contraction responses similar to mature SMC.

Conclusion—

CX
3
CR1 marks a bone marrow cells population that enriches for progenitors with capacity to differentiate in vitro into SMC-like cells.
Distinct Roles for Cell-Autonomous Notch Signaling in Cardiomyocytes of the Embryonic and Adult Heart
Authors: Kratsios Paschalis , Catela Catarina , Salimova Ekaterina , Huth Marion , Berno Valeria , Rosenthal Nadia , Mourkioti Foteini
Published: December 2009

Rationale
:

The Notch signaling pathway is important for cell–cell communication that controls tissue formation and homeostasis during embryonic and adult life, but the precise cell targets of Notch signaling in the mammalian heart remain poorly defined.

Objective
:

To investigate the functional role of Notch signaling in the cardiomyocyte compartment of the embryonic and adult heart.

Methods and Results
:

Here, we report that either conditional overexpression of Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD1) or selective silencing of Notch signaling in the embryonic cardiomyocyte compartment results in developmental defects and perinatal lethality. In contrast, augmentation of endogenous Notch reactivation after myocardial infarction in the adult, either by inducing cardiomyocyte-specific Notch1 transgene expression or by intramyocardial delivery of a Notch1 pseudoligand, increases survival rate, improves cardiac functional performance, and minimizes fibrosis, promoting antiapoptotic and angiogenic mechanisms.

Conclusions
:

These results reveal a strict requirement for cell-autonomous modulation of Notch signaling during heart morphogenesis, and illustrate how the same signaling pathway that promotes congenital heart defects when perturbed in the embryo can be therapeutically redeployed for the treatment of adult myocardial damage.
Short Communication: Ischemia/Reperfusion Tolerance Is Time-of-Day–Dependent
Authors: Durgan David J. , Pulinilkunnil Thomas , Villegas-Montoya Carolina , Garvey Merissa E. , Frangogiannis Nikolaos G. , Michael Lloyd H. , Chow Chi-Wing , Dyck Jason R.B. , Young Martin E.
Published: December 2009

Rationale
:

Cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology vary dramatically over the course of the day. For example, myocardial infarction onset occurs with greater incidence during the early morning hours in humans. However, whether myocardial infarction tolerance exhibits a time-of-day dependence is unknown.

Objective
:

To investigate whether time of day of an ischemic insult influences clinically relevant outcomes in mice.

Methods and Results
:

Wild-type mice were subjected to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) (45 minutes of ischemia followed by 1 day or 1 month of reperfusion) at distinct times of the day, using the closed-chest left anterior descending coronary artery occlusion model. Following 1 day of reperfusion, hearts subjected to ischemia at the sleep-to-wake transition (zeitgeber time [ZT]12) resulted in 3.5-fold increases in infarct size compared to hearts subjected to ischemia at the wake-to-sleep transition (ZT0). Following 1 month of reperfusion, prior ischemic event at ZT12 versus ZT0 resulted in significantly greater infarct volume, fibrosis, and adverse remodeling, as well as greater depression of contractile function. Genetic ablation of the cardiomyocyte circadian clock (termed cardiomyocyte-specific circadian clock mutant [CCM] mice) attenuated/abolished time-of-day variations in I/R outcomes observed in wild-type hearts. Investigation of Akt and glycogen synthase kinase-3β in wild-type and CCM hearts identified these kinases as potential mechanistic ties between the cardiomyocyte circadian clock and I/R tolerance.

Conclusions
:

We expose a profound time-of-day dependence for I/R tolerance, which is mediated by the cardiomyocyte circadian clock. Further understanding of I/R tolerance rhythms will potentially provide novel insight regarding the etiology and treatment of ischemia-induced cardiac dysfunction.
Sympathetic Control of the Cerebral Vasculature in Humans
Authors: Hamner J.W. , Tan Can Ozan , Lee Kichang , Cohen Michael A. , Taylor J. Andrew
Published: December 2009

Background and Purpose—

The role of the sympathetic nervous system in cerebral autoregulation remains poorly characterized. We examined cerebral blood flow responses to augmented arterial pressure oscillations with and without sympathetic blockade and compared them with responses in the forearm circulation.

Methods—

An oscillatory lower body negative pressure of 40 mm Hg was used at 6 frequencies from 0.03 to 0.08 Hz in 11 healthy subjects with and without α-adrenergic blockade by phentolamine.

Results—

Sympathetic blockade resulted in unchanged mean pressure and cerebral flow. The transfer function relationship to arterial pressure at frequencies >0.05 Hz was significantly increased in both the cerebral and brachial circulations, but the coherence of the relation remained weak at the lowest frequencies in the cerebral circulation.

Conclusion—

Our data demonstrate a strong, frequency-dependent role for sympathetic regulation of blood flow in both cerebral and brachial circulations. However, marked differences in the response to blockade suggest the control of the cerebral circulation at longer time scales is characterized by important nonlinearities and relies on regulatory mechanisms other than the sympathetic system.