bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatocytes Polyploidization and Cell Cycle Control in Liver Physiopathology
Authors: Gentric Géraldine , Desdouets Chantal , Celton-Morizur Séverine
Published: October 2012

Most cells in mammalian tissues usually contain a diploid complement of chromosomes. However, numerous studies have demonstrated a major role of “diploid-polyploid conversion” during physiopathological processes in several tissues. In the liver parenchyma, progressive polyploidization of hepatocytes takes place during postnatal growth. Indeed, at the suckling-weaning transition, cytokinesis failure events induce the genesis of binucleated tetraploid liver cells. Insulin signalling, through regulation of the PI3K/Akt signalling pathway, is essential in the establishment of liver tetraploidization by controlling cytoskeletal organisation and consequently mitosis progression. Liver cell polyploidy is generally considered to indicate terminal differentiation and senescence, and both lead to a progressive loss of cell pluripotency associated to a markedly decreased replication capacity. Although adult liver is a quiescent organ, it retains a capacity to proliferate and to modulate its ploidy in response to various stimuli or aggression (partial hepatectomy, metabolic overload (i.e., high copper and iron hepatic levels), oxidative stress, toxic insult, and chronic hepatitis etc.). Here we review the mechanisms and functional consequences of hepatocytes polyploidization during normal and pathological liver growth.
Rapid Stereomicroscopic Imaging of HER2 Overexpression inEx VivoBreast Tissue Using Topically Applied Silica-Based Gold Nanoshells
Authors: Bickford Lissett R. , Langsner Robert J. , Chang Joseph , Kennedy Laura C. , Agollah Germaine D. , Drezek Rebekah
Published: October 2012

Tumor margin detection for patients undergoing breast conservation surgery primarily occurs postoperatively. Previously, we demonstrated that gold nanoshells rapidly enhance contrast of HER2 overexpression inex vivotissue sections. Our ultimate objective, however, is to discern HER2 overexpressing tissue from normal tissue in whole, nonsectioned, specimens to facilitate rapid diagnoses. Here, we use targeted nanoshells to quickly and effectively visualize HER2 receptor expression in intactex vivohuman breast tissue specimens. Punch biopsies of human breast tissue were analyzed after a brief 5-minute incubation with and without HER2-targeted silica-gold nanoshells using two-photon microscopy and stereomicroscopy. Labeling was subsequently verified using reflectance confocal microscopy, darkfield hyperspectral imaging, and immunohistochemistry to confirm levels of HER2 expression. Our results suggest that anti-HER2 nanoshells used in tandem with a near-infrared reflectance confocal microscope and a standard stereomicroscope may potentially be used to discern HER2-overexpressing cancerous tissue from normal tissue in near real time and offer a rapid supplement to current diagnostic techniques.
Autoimmune Polyendocrinopathy Candidiasis Ectodermal Dystrophy: Insights into Genotype-Phenotype Correlation
Authors: Capalbo Donatella , De Martino Lucia , Giardino Giuliana , Di Mase Raffaella , Di Donato Iolanda , Parenti Giancarlo , Vajro Pietro , Pignata Claudio , Salerno Mariacarolina
Published: October 2012

Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy candidiasis ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) is a rare autosomal recessive disease, caused by mutations of a single gene named autoimmune regulator gene (AIRE) which results in a failure of T cell tolerance within the thymus. Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, chronic hypoparathyroidism, and Addison’s disease are the hallmarks of the syndrome. APECED is also characterized by several autoimmune endocrine and nonendocrine manifestations, and the phenotype is often complex. Moreover, even though APECED is a monogenic disease, its clinical picture is generally dominated by a wide heterogeneity both in the severity and in the number of components even among siblings with the sameAIREgenotype. The variability of its clinical expression implies that diagnosis can be challenging, and a considerable delay often occurs between the appearance of symptoms and the diagnosis. Since a prompt diagnosis is essential to prevent severe complications, clinicians should be aware of all symptoms and signs of suspicion. The aim of this paper is to give an overview on the clinical presentation and diagnostic criteria of APECED and to focus on current knowledge on genotype-phenotype correlation.
Bilateral Choroidal Metastases as Presentation of Dissemination of Cutaneous Malignant Melanoma
Authors: Fernandez-Perez S. , Ruiz-Moreno O. , Pueyo V. , de la Mata G. , Pablo L.
Published: October 2012

Case Report. A 47-year-old man presented with blurred vision in the right eye. Ophthalmoscopic examination showed several placoid, pigmented lesions in the posterior pole and midperiphery of the retina of both eyes.Results. Patient referred a cutaneous malignant melanoma on the back skin removed 6 years ago. A systemic workup revealed multiple metastases in liver and spleen. After an exhaustive study we concluded that it was a dissemination of a cutaneous malignant melanoma with bilateral choroidal metastases, liver and spleen metastases. The patient obtained clinical ocular improvement after palliative chemotherapy, although he died in the following months. Pathological examination of the lesions confirmed the diagnosis of choroidal metastases from a malignant cutaneous melanoma.Conclusions. Monitoring patients who have had cutaneous malignant melanoma is very important, since melanoma metastases may occur even many years after the diagnosis of the primary tumor. Choroidal metastases from cutaneous melanoma are uncommon but we should be aware because their appearance worsens prognosis.
Metastatic Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Bladder to the Testis: A Case Report
Authors: Kozak Gregory N. , Field Nicholas C.
Published: October 2012

An 84-year-old gentleman presented with onset of gross hematuria in September 2010. Follow-up investigations revealed T1 superficially invasive, poorly differentiated, papillary urothelial carcinoma. He subsequently had GreenLight laser for BPH and bladder neck contracture on two occasions. He developed a right hydrocele 16 months after initial presentation and during his hydrocelectomy, a rock-hard right epididymis and testicle were discovered. Pathology revealed metastatic urothelial carcinoma replacing nearly the entire testis with lymphovascular invasion.
TRAF1Gene Polymorphism Correlates with the Titre of Gp210 Antibody in Patients with Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Authors: Kempinska-Podhorodecka Agnieszka , Shums Zakera , Wasilewicz Michał , Wunsch Ewa , Milkiewicz Malgorzata , Bogdanos Dimitrios P. , Norman Gary L. , Milkiewicz Piotr
Published: October 2012

Background. Polymorphisms ofTRAF1(Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 1) are associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). WhetherTRAF1polymorphisms confer increased risk for primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), an autoimmune liver disease which can co-exist with RA, is unknown.Aim of the Study. To assess the frequency of the RA-conferring susceptibilityTRAF1polymorphisms rs3761847 and rs2900180 in a cohort of PBC patients. The association ofTRAF1polymorphisms with clinical features and autoantibody markers was also analyzed.Methods. We studied 179 PBC patients and 300 controls. Samples were genotyped forTRAF1gene polymorphisms by real-time PCR. Autoantibodies were tested by ELISA.Results. The frequency of rs3761847 and rs2900180 polymorphisms did not differ between patients and controls. Laboratory or clinical features were not associated with specific polymorphisms. Gp210 autoantibody titres were conspicuously higher among GG homozygotes of rs3761847 as compared with AA homozygotes (P=0.02). In contrast, antichromatin titers were higher in AA compared to GG rs3761847 homozygotes (P=0.04). Rheumatoid factor IgG titres were significantly higher in rs2900180 TT homozygotes than CC homozygotes (P=0.02).Conclusions.TRAF1polymorphisms occur with the similar frequency in PBC patients and in the general population, but their presence is probably involved in the regulation of specific PBC-related autoantibodies.
A Study on the Working Performance of Dimming Methods for Single- and Multichip Power LEDs
Authors: Kıyak İsmail
Published: October 2012

Light emitting diodes (LEDs) have many positive features, such as long life, low power consumption, and high luminous efficacy. Consequently, they are very attractive for use in many applications. Also, the use of LEDs ensures energy savings. Power LEDs have increasingly been used for general lighting via multichip module technology. The output of power LEDs should be controlled to obtain life and illuminance values in catalog. In this study, the effects of different dimming methods are investigated for single-and multichip LEDs. To achieve this aim, pulse width modulation (PWM) and current variation (CV) dimming methods are applied to single and multichip power LEDs during ten stages of dimming. A current-regulated DC source is used for current variation (CV) dimming, and a driver designed by the researcher is used for pulse width modulation (PWM) dimming. Moreover, all of the applications are made for active and passive cooling. Finally, the results are compared.
Interactive Multiobjective Fuzzy Random Linear Programming through Fractile Criteria
Authors: Yano Hitoshi , Sakawa Masatoshi
Published: October 2012

We propose an interactive fuzzy decision making method for multiobjective fuzzy random linear programming problems through fractile criteria optimization. In the proposed method, it is assumed that the decision maker has fuzzy goals for not only objective functions but also permissible probability levels in a fractile optimization model, and such fuzzy goals are quantified by eliciting the corresponding membership functions. Using the fuzzy decision, such two kinds of membership functions are integrated. In the integrated membership space, the satisfactory solution is obtained from among an extended Pareto optimal solution set through the interaction with the decision maker. An illustrative numerical example is provided to demonstrate the feasibility and efficiency of the proposed method.
Cardiovascular Disease Risk in the Offspring of Diabetic Women: The Impact of the Intrauterine Environment
Authors: Marco Laura J. , McCloskey Kate , Vuillermin Peter J. , Burgner David , Said Joanne , Ponsonby Anne-Louise
Published: October 2012

The incidence of gestational diabetes is increasing worldwide, exposing large numbers of infants to hyperglycaemia whilstin utero. This exposure may have a long-term negative impact on the cardiovascular health of the offspring. Novel methods to assess cardiovascular status in the neonatal period are now available—including measuring arterial intima-media thickness and retinal photography. These measures will allow researchers to assess the relative impact of intrauterine exposures, distinguishing these from genetic or postnatal environmental factors. Understanding the long-term impact of the intrauterine environment should allow the development of more effective health policy and interventions to decrease the future burden of cardiovascular disease. Initiating disease prevention aimed at the developing fetus during the antenatal period may optimise community health outcomes.
ABO Blood Groups and Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Zhang Hanrui , Mooney Ciarán J. , Reilly Muredach P.
Published: October 2012

ABO blood groups have been associated with various disease phenotypes, particularly cardiovascular diseases. Cardiovascular diseases are the most common causes of death in developed countries and their prevalence rate is rapidly growing in developing countries. There have been substantial historical associations between non-O blood group status and an increase in some cardiovascular disorders. Recent GWASs have identified ABO as a locus for thrombosis, myocardial infarction, and multiple cardiovascular risk biomarkers, refocusing attention on mechanisms and potential for clinical advances. As we highlight in this paper, more recent work is beginning to probe the molecular basis of the disease associations observed in these observational studies. Advances in our understanding of the physiologic importance of various endothelial and platelet-derived circulating glycoproteins are elucidating the mechanisms through which the ABO blood group may determine overall cardiovascular disease risk. The role of blood group antigens in the pathogenesis of various cardiovascular disorders remains a fascinating subject with potential to lead to novel therapeutics and prognostics and to reduce the global burden of cardiovascular diseases.
Zoo U: A Stealth Approach to Social Skills Assessment in Schools
Authors: DeRosier Melissa E. , Craig Ashley B. , Sanchez Rebecca P.
Published: October 2012

This paper describes the design and evaluation ofZoo U, a novel computer game to assess children’s social skills development.Zoo Uis an innovative product that combines theory-driven content and customized game mechanics. The game-like play creates the opportunity forstealth assessment, in which dynamic evidence of social skills is collected in real time and players’ choices during gameplay provide the needed data. To ensure the development of an engaging and valid game, we utilized an iterative data-driven validation process in which the game was created, tested, revised based on student performance and feedback, and retested until game play was statistically matched to independent ratings of social skills. We first investigated whether the data collected through extensive logging of student actions provided information that could be used to improve the assessment. We found that detailed game logs of socially relevant player behavior combined with external measures of player social skills provided an efficient vector to incrementally improve the accuracy of the embedded assessments. Next, we investigated whether the game performance correlated with teachers’ assessments of students’ social skills competencies. An evaluation of the final game showed (a) significant correlations between in-game social skills assessments and independently obtained standard psychological assessments of the same students and (b) high levels of engagement and likeability for students. These findings support the use of the interactive and engaging computer game format for the stealth assessment of children’s social skills. The created innovative design methodologies should prove useful in the design and improvement of computer games in education.
Effect of Gastrointestinal Surgical Manipulation on Metabolic Syndrome: A Focus on Metabolic Surgery
Authors: Rizzello Mario , De Angelis Francesco , Campanile Fabio Cesare , Silecchia Gianfranco
Published: October 2012

Metabolic syndrome is strictly associated with morbid obesity and leads to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and related mortality. Bariatric surgery is considered an effective option for the management of these patients. We searched MEDLINE, Current Contents, and the Cochrane Library for papers published on bariatric surgery outcomes in English from 1 January 1990 to 20 July 2012. We reported the effect of gastrointestinal manipulation on metabolic syndrome after bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery determines an important resolution rate of major obesity-related comorbidities. Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and biliopancreatic diversion appear to be more effective than adjustable gastric banding in terms of weight loss and comorbidities resolution. However, the results obtained in terms of weight loss and resolution of comorbidities after a “new bariatric procedure” (sleeve gastrectomy) encouraged and stimulated the diffusion of this operation.
UV-Irradiated Photocatalytic Degradation of Nitrobenzene by Titania Binding on Quartz Tube
Authors: Whang Thou-Jen , Hsieh Mu-Tao , Shi Tjaun-En , Kuei Chun-Hsiung
Published: October 2012

A new method for UV-irradiated degradation of nitrobenzene by titania photocatalysts was proposed, titania nanoparticles were coated on a quartz tube through the introduction of tetraethyl orthosilicate into the matrix. The dependence of nitrobenzene photodegradation on pH, temperature, concentration, and air feeding was discussed, and the physical properties such as the activation energy, entropy, enthalpy, adsorption constant, and rate constant were acquired by conducting the reactions in a variety of experimental conditions. The optimum efficiency of the photodegradation with the nitrobenzene residue as low as 8.8% was achieved according to the experimental conditions indicated. The photodegradation pathways were also investigated through HPLC, GC/MS, ion chromatography (IC), and chemical oxygen demand (COD) analyses.
Idiopathic Clubbing Confined to Lower Limb Digits and Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: An Unusual Association
Authors: Magazine Rahul , Shetty Ranjan , Goneppanavar Umesh , Mohapatra Aswini K.
Published: October 2012

A 62-year-old housewife presented to the chest outpatient department with a history of exertional breathlessness of four-month duration. On general physical examination, clubbing of toes was present with sparing of fingers. Chest examination revealed bilateral basal end inspiratory fine crepitations. A diagnosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis was made on the basis of clinical, spirometric, and high-resolution computed tomography findings. Extensive evaluation could not reveal any cause for the differential clubbing. The unusual distribution of clubbing in a clinical condition, such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, where generalized clubbing is expected can lead to a diagnostic confusion. This can lead to a further burden of investigations on the patient as clubbing being a significant finding cannot be ignored.
Primary Oral Myiasis: A Case Report
Authors: Bhola Nitin , Jadhav Anendd , Borle Rajiv , Adwani Nitin , Khemka Gaurav , Jadhav Pretti
Published: October 2012

Myiasis commonly refers to invasion of live human or animal tissue by fly larvae of the Diptera order where they complete their cycle totally or in part, feeding on living or dead tissue, as well as on body fluids. Infestation of tissues of vertebrate species is pandemic but more frequently found in tropical and subtropical countries where poor hygiene, poor housing infrastructure, warm humid climate, and proximity with domestic animals prevail. Its diagnosis is made basically by the presence of larvae. The present paper reports a case of gingival myiasis involving 14–16 larvae in a 12-year-old boy.
Statins for Renal Patients: A Fiddler on the Roof?
Authors: Guedes Anabela Malho , Neves Pedro Leão
Published: October 2012

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is the main cause of morbidity and mortality in chronic kidney disease patients. There is a raft of evidence showing that in the general population dyslipidaemia is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, as well as with a greater prevalence of chronic kidney disease. Consequently, the use of statins in the general population with dyslipidaemia is not controversial. Nevertheless, the benefits of statins in patients with chronic kidney disease are more elusive. The authors review the possible effects of statins on the progression of renal disease and cardiovascular events in chronic kidney disease patients.
Association between Habitual Dietary Salt Intake and Risk of Gastric Cancer: A Systematic Review of Observational Studies
Authors: Ge Sheng , Feng Xiaohui , Shen Li , Wei Zhanying , Zhu Qiankun , Sun Juan
Published: October 2012

Purpose.Systematic reviews of case-control and prospective studies showed a positive association between habitual salt intake and gastric cancer. Given new studies published thereafter, we carried out a meta-analysis to assess the association between dietary salt intake and gastric cancer.Methods.Case-control studies and cohort studies published between January 1992 and January 2012 on PubMed and Embase were searched. We quantified associations between salt intake and gastric cancer with meta-analysis.Results.Eleven studies (7 case controls and 4 cohorts) finally were included in the meta-analysis (total population:n=2076498; events:n=12039). The combined odds ratio showed significantly positive association between high salt intake and gastric cancer compared with low salt intake (OR = 2.05, 95% CI [1.60, 2.62];P<0.00001). In subgroup meta-analysis, findings were slightly different when analyses were restricted to salty food intake (OR = 2.41, 95% CI [2.08, 2.78];P<0.00001) as well as in Asia (OR = 1.27 95% CI [1.22, 1.32];P<0.00001). There was no evidence that sample size, exposure assessment substantially influenced the estimate of effects.Conclusions.The systemic review supports the hypothesis that dietary salt intake is positively associated with the risk of gastric cancer.
Food Price Inflation Rates in the Euro Zone: Distribution Dynamics and Convergence Analysis
Authors: Liontakis Angelos
Published: October 2012

It is widely recognized that inflation as a monetary phenomenon is determined by money supply changes. In the short run, however, several factors may lead to inflation rate differentials among different regions in the same country or among different countries in a monetary union. This paper examines the mean reversion attitude of food price inflation rates in the Euro zone, borrowing the concepts and developments from the recent growth literature and using panel unit root tests. Additionally, in order to capture sufficiently the evolving distributional dynamics, nonparametric econometric methods are also implemented. Finally, the comovement of the inflation rates among different food subgroups is also explored. The data consist of monthly observations of the EU harmonized consumer price indices of food and three different food subgroups (meat, bread and cereals, and vegetables) for the 12 older member states of the Euro zone, covering the period from 1997 to 2010. The results do not fully support the hypothesis of the food price inflation rates convergence for the whole period under investigation. Mean reversion shows up in different time periods and in different food categories. Moreover, the analysis of distribution dynamics sheds light to different aspects of convergence and highlights processes like club formation and polarization.
Recent Developments of Hilbert-Type Discrete and Integral Inequalities with Applications
Authors: Debnath Lokenath , Yang Bicheng
Published: October 2012

This paper deals with recent developments of Hilbert-type discrete and integral inequalities by introducing kernels, weight functions, and multiparameters. Included are numerous generalizations, extensions, and refinements of Hilbert-type inequalities involving many special functions such as beta, gamma, logarithm, trigonometric, hyper-bolic, Bernoulli's functions and Bernoulli's numbers, Euler's constant, zeta function, and hypergeometric functions with many applications. Special attention is given to many equivalent inequalities and to conditions under which the constant factors involved in inequalities are the best possible. Many particular cases of Hilbert-type inequalities are presented with numerous applications. A large number of major books and recent research papers published during 2009–2012 are included to stimulate new interest in future study and research.
Nonlinear MIMO Control of a Continuous Cooling Crystallizer
Authors: Quintana-Hernández Pedro Alberto , Ocampo-Pérez Raúl , Tututi-Avila Salvador , Hernández-Castro Salvador
Published: October 2012

In this work, a feedback control algorithm was developed based on geometric control theory. A nonisothermal seeded continuous crystallizer model was used to test the algorithm. The control objectives were the stabilization of the third moment of the crystal size distribution (μ3) and the crystallizer temperature (T); the manipulated variables were the stirring rate and the coolant flow rate. The nonlinear control (NLC) was tested at operating conditions established within the metastable zone. Step changes of magnitudes ±0.0015 and ±0.5°C were introduced into the set point values of the third moment and crystallizer temperature, respectively. In addition, a step change of ±1°C was introduced as a disturbance in the feeding temperature. Closed-loop stability was analyzed by calculating the eigenvalues of the internal dynamics. The system presented a stable dynamic behavior when the operation conditions maintain the crystallizer concentration within the metastable zone. Closed-loop simulations with the NLC were compared with simulations that used a classic PID controller. The PID controllers were tuned by minimizing the integral of the absolute value of the error (IAE) criterion. The results showed that the NLC provided a suitable option for continuous crystallization control. For all analyzed cases, the IAEs obtained with NLC were smaller than those obtained with the PID controller.
A Point-to-Point Interference Measurement Approach for Large-Scale Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zeng Bo , Dong Yabo , Lu Dongming
Published: October 2012

Interference measurement is an important part for use in links scheduling protocol in wireless sensor networks (WSNs). To know wireless interference among nodes in the network is essential to guarantee the efficiency of links scheduling protocol. This work presents a point-to-point interference measurement approach based on time division technique for large-scale low-power WSNs. We first propose an optimized time-slots assignment to reduce the time-slot requirement of interference measurement for large-scale WSNs. We then mitigate the problem of communication by using a subtree-based information distribution method. The accuracy of interference measurement is controlled by a control factor that can be specified by user based on the application requirement to achieve a tradeoff between the overhead of measuring interference and measurement accuracy. Our simulation results indicate that our approach has low-energy and-communication overhead when compared with baseline.
Sudden Death of a Pregnant Woman in Third Trimester with No Risk Factor
Authors: Goker Asli , Civi Melek , Bayturan Ozgur , Kuscu N. Kemal
Published: October 2012

Acute myocardial infarction in pregnancy is rare and life-threatening for both the mother and the fetus. We present the case of a 31-year-old previously healthy woman with no risk factors at 32 weeks of gestation who applied with vomiting, dyspnea and orthopnea. A respiratory arrest developed followed by loss of the fetal viability, cardiac arrest, and failure of resuscitation. We aim to raise awareness about the clinical approach to pregnant patients who are to be considered with a broad spectrum of differential diagnosis.
Removal of Cr(VI) and Cu(II) Ions from Aqueous Solution by Carbon Prepared from Henna Leaves
Authors: Shanthi T. , Selvarajan V. M.
Published: October 2012

Carbon prepared from leaves of henna (Lawsonia inermis) was used to study the adsorption of Cr(VI) and Cu(II) ions from their aqueous solutions. The experimental conditions which include pH, contact time, initial concentration, and adsorbent dosage on the metal removal were investigated. The capacity of adsorption depends on pH value; it increases with an increase in pH value from 1 to 7 and then decreases. The highest percentage of metal removal was achieved in the adsorbent dosage of 0.7 g and at an initial concentration of 100 ppm metal ion. The adsorption isotherm studies revealed that data was confirmed with both the Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models. The removal percentage was found to be higher for Cu(II) when compared with Cr(VI). The potential of carbon prepared from henna leaves for the removal of these two solutions containing heavy metals was substantiated.
Multivoxel MR Spectroscopy in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Dani Krishna A. , An Li , Henning Erica C. , Shen Jun , Warach Steven ,   on behalf of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke Natural History of Stroke Investigators
Published: October 2012

Background and Purpose—

Few patients with stroke have been imaged with MR spectroscopy (MRS) within the first few hours after onset. We compared data from current MRI protocols to MRS in subjects with ischemic stroke.

Methods—

MRS was incorporated into the standard clinical MRI stroke protocol for subjects <24 hours after onset. MRI and clinical correlates for the metabolic data from MRS were sought.

Results—

One hundred thirty-six MRS voxels from 32 subjects were analyzed. Lactate preceded the appearance of the lesion on diffusion-weighted imaging in some voxels but in others lagged behind it. Current protocols may predict up to 41% of the variance of MRS metabolites. Serum glucose concentration and time to maximum partially predicted the concentration of all major metabolites.

Conclusion—

MRS may be helpful in acute stroke, especially for lactate detection when perfusion-weighted imaging is unavailable. Current MRI protocols do provide surrogate markers for some indices of metabolic activity.
Persistent Hemodynamic Changes in Ruptured Brain Arteriovenous Malformations
Authors: Illies Till , Forkert Nils Daniel , Saering Dennis , Wenzel Karolin , Ries Thorsten , Regelsberger Jan , Wegscheider Karl , Fiehler Jens
Published: October 2012

Background and Purpose—

Hemodynamic properties of brain arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) with risk factors for a future hemorrhage are essentially unknown. We hypothesized that AVMs with anatomic properties, which are associated with an increased rupture risk, exhibit different hemodynamic characteristics than those without these properties.

Methods—

Seventy-two consecutive patients with AVMs diagnosed by conventional angiography underwent MRI examination, including time-resolved 3-dimensional MR angiography. Signal-intensity curves derived from the time-resolved 3-dimensional MR angiography datasets were used to calculate relative blood flow transit times through the AVM nidus based on the time-to-peak parameter. For identification of characteristics associated with altered transit times, a multiple normal regression model was fitted with stepwise selection of the following regressors: intracranial hemorrhage, deep nidus location, infratentorial location, deep drainage, associated aneurysm, nidus size, draining venous stenosis, and number of draining veins.

Results—

A previous intracranial hemorrhage is the only characteristic that was associated with a significant alteration of the relative transit time, leading to an increase of 2.4 seconds (95% CI, 1.2–3.6 seconds;,
P
<0.001) without adjustment and 2.1 seconds (95% CI, 0.6–3.6 seconds;
P
=0.007) with adjustment for all other regressors considered. The association was independent of the bleeding age.

Conclusion—

Hemodynamic parameters do not seem useful for risk assessment of an AVM-related hemorrhage because only a previous AVM rupture leads to a significant and permanent alteration of the hemodynamic situation.
Immigrants’ membership in civic associations: Why are some immigrants more active than others?
Authors: Voicu Malina , Rusu Ioana Alexandra
Published: October 2012

This study focuses on the level of membership in associations of the migrant population in Spain. Three types of civic engagement are considered: participation in all types of civic associations, in associations for immigrants and in non-immigrant associations. The article investigates whether immigrants coming from countries with higher levels of civic participation are more likely to participate in civic associations and if immigrants who have lived longer in and stayed in closer contact with a home country with a higher level of civic participation are more likely to join civic associations. Data used come from the Spanish National Immigrant Survey (2007) and the World Values Survey (2000, 2005). The results of multilevel logistic regressions show that immigrants who have spent more time in a more participatory context at origin and who are in closer contact with these societies are more likely to get involved in civic associations at destination.
Effects of music therapy on facial expression of individuals with Parkinson’s disease: A pilot study
Authors: Elefant Cochavit , Lotan Meir , Baker Felicity A. , Skeie Geir Olve
Published: October 2012

Neurological degeneration associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD) affects the verbal as well as the nonverbal communicative potential of individuals diagnosed with PD. Communicating with significant others is crucial to quality of life and maintaining healthy and satisfying relationships. Evidence indicates that Music Therapy (MT) improves communication in a range of neurologically impaired populations; however there is no research that has studied its effect on the facial expressions of PD patients. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of group music therapy on facial expression in individuals with PD.

Ten patients diagnosed with PD were recruited from a large demographic study at the Haukeland Hospital Rehabilitation Centre in Bergen, Norway. Two groups, with five individuals each group, met once a week for a 60 minute music therapy session for 20 weeks. Facial expressions were measured using the Facial Action Coding System (FACS) tool, and the facial mobility and engagement evaluation. FACS results were measured twice by different observers to ensure stability (interrater reliability) of findings.

Interrater reliability was found at ICC = 0.89. A large effect size was found in facial expression between pre- and post-test measurements taken during singing (ES = 0.9). A large effect size was found in both sets of data (singing and speaking) (ES = 0.8). A moderate effect size was found in facial expression between pre- and post-test measurements taken during speaking (ES = 0.5). We conclude that this MT program was found successful in significantly enhancing facial expression in individuals with PD.
Music-enhanced recall: An effect of mood congruence, emotion arousal or emotion function?
Authors: Tesoriero Michael , Rickard Nikki Sue
Published: October 2012

Research on whether music facilitates recall has been inconsistent and has lacked a theoretical basis. Three competing emotion-based theories yield differential predictions dependent on arousal levels, mood congruence, and functional relevance of information respectively. The aim of this study was to determine the most informative framework to understand the effect of emotion-inducing music on the short-term recall of information about narratives. Ninety-five participants (range = 18–58 years) were randomly allocated to one of four groups differentiated by the type of music presented to them, which was either happy ( n = 26), sad ( n = 19), fearful ( n = 25), or calm ( n = 25). Participants listened to music, followed by a positively or negatively emotionally-valenced narrative, and free recall of the narrative was tested approximately five minutes later. The results provided strongest support for the mood congruence theory in this context. After exposure to positive music, recall of positive information was significantly greater than recall of negative information. Mood regulation ability moderated this effect, with symmetrical mood congruence observed in participants with a tendency to repair their negative moods. Music may therefore offer an effective means of facilitating encoding of information when the mood induced by preceding music is congruent with the valence of information learnt. While the arousal and function theories may be more informative in other contexts (for instance, when music is played following learning or longer-term recall is tested), the current findings may help to clarify some of the inconsistencies previously observed in the research on music-facilitated recall.
Social Complexity in the Mid-Holocene Northeastern Bothnian Gulf
Authors: Costopoulos André , Vaneeckhout Samuel , Okkonen Jari , Hulse Eva , Paberzyte Ieva , Wren Colin D.
Published: October 2012

There was a period of reduced mobility, increased population density, and social complexity among hunter–gatherers in northern Bothnian prehistory between about 4050 and 2050 cal BC. We argue that this was made possible by a combination of physical and social factors that include the shortening of the coastline due to isostatic land uplift, the reduction of distances between major river mouths along the Bothnian coast, and the local variability in rate of shoreline displacement at individual river mouths.
Protein interactions of the transcription factor Hoxa1
Authors: Lambert Barbara , Vandeputte Julie , Remacle Sophie , Bergiers Isabelle , Simonis Nicolas , Twizere Jean-Claude , Vidal Marc , Rezsohazy René
Published: October 2012

Background

Hox proteins are transcription factors involved in crucial processes during animal development. Their mode of action remains scantily documented. While other families of transcription factors, like Smad or Stat, are known cell signaling transducers, such a function has never been squarely addressed for Hox proteins.

Results

To investigate the mode of action of mammalian Hoxa1, we characterized its interactome by a systematic yeast two-hybrid screening against ~12,200 ORF-derived polypeptides. Fifty nine interactors were identified of which 45 could be confirmed by affinity co-purification in animal cell lines. Many Hoxa1 interactors are proteins involved in cell-signaling transduction, cell adhesion and vesicular trafficking. Forty-one interactions were detectable in live cells by Bimolecular Fluorescence Complementation which revealed distinctive intracellular patterns for these interactions consistent with the selective recruitment of Hoxa1 by subgroups of partner proteins at vesicular, cytoplasmic or nuclear compartments.

Conclusions

The characterization of the Hoxa1 interactome presented here suggests unexplored roles for Hox proteins in cell-to-cell communication and cell physiology.
The independent prokaryotic origins of eukaryotic fructose-1, 6-bisphosphatase and sedoheptulose-1, 7-bisphosphatase and the implications of their origins for the evolution of eukaryotic Calvin cycle
Authors: Jiang Yong-Hai , Wang De-Yong , Wen Jian-Fan
Published: October 2012

Background

In the Calvin cycle of eubacteria, the dephosphorylations of both fructose-1, 6-bisphosphate (FBP) and sedoheptulose-1, 7-bisphosphate (SBP) are catalyzed by the same bifunctional enzyme: fructose-1, 6-bisphosphatase/sedoheptulose-1, 7-bisphosphatase (F/SBPase), while in that of eukaryotic chloroplasts by two distinct enzymes: chloroplastic fructose-1, 6-bisphosphatase (FBPase) and sedoheptulose-1, 7-bisphosphatase (SBPase), respectively. It was proposed that these two eukaryotic enzymes arose from the divergence of a common ancestral eubacterial bifunctional F/SBPase of mitochondrial origin. However, no specific affinity between SBPase and eubacterial FBPase or F/SBPase can be observed in the previous phylogenetic analyses, and it is hard to explain why SBPase and/or F/SBPase are/is absent from most extant nonphotosynthetic eukaryotes according to this scenario.

Results

Domain analysis indicated that eubacterial F/SBPase of two different resources contain distinct domains: proteobacterial F/SBPases contain typical FBPase domain, while cyanobacterial F/SBPases possess FBPase_glpX domain. Therefore, like prokaryotic FBPase, eubacterial F/SBPase can also be divided into two evolutionarily distant classes (Class I and II). Phylogenetic analysis based on a much larger taxonomic sampling than previous work revealed that all eukaryotic SBPase cluster together and form a close sister group to the clade of epsilon-proteobacterial Class I FBPase which are gluconeogenesis-specific enzymes, while all eukaryotic chloroplast FBPase group together with eukaryotic cytosolic FBPase and form another distinct clade which then groups with the Class I FBPase of diverse eubacteria. Motif analysis of these enzymes also supports these phylogenetic correlations.

Conclusions

There are two evolutionarily distant classes of eubacterial bifunctional F/SBPase. Eukaryotic FBPase and SBPase do not diverge from either of them but have two independent origins: SBPase share a common ancestor with the gluconeogenesis-specific Class I FBPase of epsilon-proteobacteria (or probably originated from that of the ancestor of epsilon-proteobacteria), while FBPase arise from Class I FBPase of an unknown kind of eubacteria. During the evolution of SBPase from eubacterial Class I FBPase, the SBP-dephosphorylation activity was acquired through the transition “from specialist to generalist”. The evolutionary substitution of the endosymbiotic-origin cyanobacterial bifunctional F/SBPase by the two light-regulated substrate-specific enzymes made the regulation of the Calvin cycle more delicate, which contributed to the evolution of eukaryotic photosynthesis and even the entire photosynthetic eukaryotes.
Profiles of physical, emotional and psychosocial wellbeing in the Lothian birth cohort 1936
Authors: Zammit Andrea R , Starr John M , Johnson Wendy , Deary Ian J
Published: October 2012

Background

Physical, emotional, and psychosocial wellbeing are important domains of function. The aims of this study were to explore the existence of separable groups among 70-year olds with scores representing physical function, perceived quality of life, and emotional wellbeing, and to characterise any resulting groups using demographic, personality, cognition, health and lifestyle variables.

Methods

We used latent class analysis (LCA) to identify possible groups.

Results

Results suggested there were 5 groups. These included High (n = 515, 47.2% of the sample), Average (n = 417, 38.3%), and Poor Wellbeing (n = 37, 3.4%) groups. The two other groups had contrasting patterns of wellbeing: one group scored relatively well on physical function, but low on emotional wellbeing (Good Fitness/ Low Spirits,n = 60, 5.5%), whereas the other group showed low physical function but relatively well emotional wellbeing (Low Fitness/Good Spirits, n = 62, 5.7%). Salient characteristics that distinguished all the groups included smoking and drinking behaviours, personality, and illness.

Conclusions

Despite there being some evidence of these groups, the results also support a largely one-dimensional construct of wellbeing in old age—for the domains assessed here—though with some evidence that some individuals have uneven profiles.
BMP and TGFbeta pathways in human central chondrosarcoma: enhanced endoglin and Smad 1 signaling in high grade tumors
Authors: Boeuf Stephane , Bovée Judith VMG , Lehner Burkhard , van den Akker Brendy , van Ruler Maayke , Cleton-Jansen Anne-Marie , Richter Wiltrud
Published: October 2012

Background

As major regulators of normal chondrogenesis, the bone morphogenic protein (BMP) and transforming growth factor β (TGFB) signaling pathways may be involved in the development and progression of central chondrosarcoma. In order to uncover their possible implication, the aim of this study was to perform a systematic quantitative study of the expression of BMPs, TGFBs and their receptors and to assess activity of the corresponding pathways in central chondrosarcoma.

Methods

Gene expression analysis was performed by quantitative RT-PCR in 26 central chondrosarcoma and 6 healthy articular cartilage samples. Expression of endoglin and nuclear localization of phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 and Smad2 was assessed by immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

The expression of TGFB3 and of the activin receptor-like kinase ALK2 was found to be significantly higher in grade III compared to grade I chondrosarcoma. Nuclear phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 and Smad2 were found in all tumors analyzed and the activity of both signaling pathways was confirmed by functional reporter assays in 2 chondrosarcoma cell lines. Immunohistochemical analysis furthermore revealed that phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 and endoglin expression were significantly higher in high-grade compared to low-grade chondrosarcoma and correlated to each other.

Conclusions

The BMP and TGFβ signaling pathways were found to be active in central chondrosarcoma cells. The correlation of Smad1/5/8 activity to endoglin expression suggests that, as described in other cell types, endoglin could enhance Smad1/5/8 signaling in high-grade chondrosarcoma cells. Endoglin expression coupled to Smad1/5/8 activation could thus represent a functionally important signaling axis for the progression of chondrosarcoma and a regulator of the undifferentiated phenotype of high-grade tumor cells.
Quinine localizes to a non-acidic compartment within the food vacuole of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Bohórquez Elaine B , Chua Michael , Meshnick Steven R
Published: October 2012

Background

The naturally fluorescent compound quinine has long been used to treat malaria infections. Although some evidence suggests that quinine acts in the parasite food vacuole, the mechanism of action of quinine has not yet been resolved. The Plasmodium falciparum multidrug resistance (pfmdr1) gene encodes a food vacuolar membrane transporter and has been linked with parasite resistance to quinine. The effect of multiple pfmdr1 copies on the subcellular localization of quinine was explored.

Methods

Fluorescence microscopy was used to evaluate the subcellular localization of quinine in parasites containing different pfmdr1 copy numbers to determine if copy number of the gene affects drug localization. The acidotropic dye LysoTracker Red was used to label the parasite food vacuole. Time-lapse images were taken to determine quinine localization over time following quinine exposure.

Results

Regardless of pfmdr1 copy number, quinine overlapped with haemozoin but did not colocalize with LysoTracker Red, which labeled the acidic parasite food vacuole.

Conclusions

Quinine localizes to a non-acidic compartment within the food vacuole possibly haemozoin. Pfmdr1 copy number does not affect quinine subcellular localization.
Hypoxia and estrogen are functionally equivalent in breast cancer-endothelial cell interdependence
Authors: George Andrea L , Rajoria Shilpi , Suriano Robert , Mittleman Abraham , Tiwari Raj K
Published: October 2012

Background

Rapid breast tumor development relies on formation of new vasculature to supply the growing malignancy with oxygenated blood. Previously we found that estrogen aided in this neovasculogenesis via recruitment of bone marrow derived endothelial progenitor cells (BM-EPCs), leading to increased vessel formation and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) production in vivo. However, the cellular mechanism of this induction and the signaling pathways involved need elucidation.

Results

Using the murine mammary cell line TG1-1 we observed estrogen (E2) lead to an up regulation of hypoxia inducible factor-1 (HIF-1), an effect abrogated by the anti-estrogen Fulvestrant and the HIF-1 inhibitor YC-1 (3-(5’-hydroxymethyl-2’-furyl)-1-benzylindazole) suggesting the interchangeability of hypoxia and estrogen mediated effects. Estrogen modulation of HIF-1 and subsequent effects on endothelial cells is dependent on the Akt/PI3K pathway and protein synthesis as validated by the use of the inhibitors wortmannin and cycloheximide which abrogated estrogen’s effects respectively. Estrogen treated TG1-1 cells secreted higher levels of VEGF which were comparable to secreted levels from cells grown under hypoxic conditions. Soluble factors in conditioned media from E2 treated breast cancer cells also lead to migration and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in vitro.

Conclusions

Our data provide evidence that estrogen signaling mediates the tumor vasculogenic process required for breast cancer progression and involves a key regulator of the hypoxia signaling pathway. Further, hypoxia and estrogen are interchangeable as both similarly modulate epithelial-endothelial cell interaction.