bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bub1, Sgo1, and Mps1 mediate a distinct pathway for chromosome biorientation in budding yeast
Authors: Storchová Zuzana , Becker Justin S. , Talarek Nicolas , Kögelsberger Sandra , Pellman David
Published: March 2011

The conserved mitotic kinase Bub1 performs multiple functions that are only partially characterized. Besides its role in the spindle assembly checkpoint and chromosome alignment, Bub1 is crucial for the kinetochore recruitment of multiple proteins, among them Sgo1. Both Bub1 and Sgo1 are dispensable for growth of haploid and diploid budding yeast, but they become essential in cells with higher ploidy. We find that overexpression of SGO1 partially corrects the chromosome segregation defect of bub1Δ haploid cells and restores viability to bub1Δ tetraploid cells. Using an unbiased high-copy suppressor screen, we identified two members of the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC), BIR1 (survivin) and SLI15 (INCENP, inner centromere protein), as suppressors of the growth defect of both bub1Δ and sgo1Δ tetraploids, suggesting that these mutants die due to defects in chromosome biorientation. Overexpression of BIR1 or SLI15 also complements the benomyl sensitivity of haploid bub1Δ and sgo1Δ cells. Mutants lacking SGO1 fail to biorient sister chromatids attached to the same spindle pole (syntelic attachment) after nocodazole treatment. Moreover, the sgo1Δ cells accumulate syntelic attachments in unperturbed mitoses, a defect that is partially corrected by BIR1 or SLI15 overexpression. We show that in budding yeast neither Bub1 nor Sgo1 is required for CPC localization or affects Aurora B activity. Instead we identify Sgo1 as a possible partner of Mps1, a mitotic kinase suggested to have an Aurora B–independent function in establishment of biorientation. We found that Sgo1 overexpression rescues defects caused by metaphase inactivation of Mps1 and that Mps1 is required for Sgo1 localization to the kinetochore. We propose that Bub1, Sgo1, and Mps1 facilitate chromosome biorientation independently of the Aurora B–mediated pathway at the budding yeast kinetochore and that both pathways are required for the efficient turnover of syntelic attachments.
Forest Type Influences Transmission of Phytophthora ramorum in California Oak Woodlands
Authors: Davidson Jennifer M. , Patterson Heather A. , Wickland Allison C. , Fichtner Elizabeth J. , Rizzo David M.
Published: March 2011

The transmission ecology of Phytophthora ramorum from bay laurel (Umbellularia californica) leaves was compared between mixed-evergreen and redwood forest types throughout winter and summer disease cycles in central, coastal California. In a preliminary multisite study, we found that abscission rates of infected leaves were higher at mixed-evergreen sites. In addition, final infection counts were slightly higher at mixed-evergreen sites or not significantly different than at redwood sites, in part due to competition from other foliar pathogens at redwood sites. In a subsequent, detailed study of paired sites where P. ramorum was the main foliar pathogen, summer survival of P. ramorum in bay laurel leaves was lower in mixed-evergreen forest due to lower recovery from infected attached leaves and higher abscission rates of infected leaves. Onset of inoculum production and new infections of bay laurel leaves occurred later in mixed-evergreen forest. Mean inoculum levels in rainwater and final infection counts on leaves were higher in redwood forest. Based on these two studies, lower summer survival of reservoir inoculum in bay laurel leaves in mixed-evergreen forest may result in delayed onset of both inoculum production and new infections, leading to slower disease progress in the early rainy season compared with redwood forest. Although final infection counts also will depend on other foliar pathogens and disease history, in sites where P. ramorum is the main foliar pathogen, these transmission patterns suggest higher rates of disease spread in redwood forests during rainy seasons of short or average length.
Combination use of anti‐CD133 antibody and SSA lectin can effectively enrich cells with high tumorigenicity
Authors: Moriwaki Kenta , Okudo Kumiko , Haraguchi Naotsugu , Takeishi Shunsaku , Sawaki Hiromichi , Narimatsu Hisashi , Tanemura Masahiro , Ishii Hideshi , Mori Masaki , Miyoshi Eiji
Published: March 2011

Glycans exhibit characteristic changes in their structures during development and thus have been used as markers for stem/progenitor cells. However, the glycan structures unique to cancer stem cells (CSC) remain unknown. In the present study, we examined glycan structures in CD133+CD13+CSC, which were recently found to have a high CSC ability, by means of a lectin microarray. Seven sialylated glycan‐recognizing lectins, MAL‐I, SNA, SSA, TJA‐I, ACG, ABA and MAH, showed higher affinity to CD133+CD13+CSC than CD133+cells with a lower CSC ability. In addition, we demonstrated that CD133+SSA+cells isolated from Huh7 cells had a significantly higher ability to form tumors in non‐obese diabetic/severe combined immunodeficiency disease (NOD/SCID) mice and spheres under serum‐free conditions than CD133+SSA−cells. These results suggest that hepatic CSC highly express sialylated glycans and that SSA lectin can be used as a tool for isolating CSC. This study is the first report to demonstrate the characteristic glycan structures in CSC and to indicate a new methodology involving lectins for isolating CSC. (Cancer Sci2011; 102: 1164–1170)
Platelet adhesion defect in type I Gaucher Disease is associated with a risk of mucosal bleeding
Authors: Spectre Galia , Roth Batia , Ronen Galia , Rosengarten Dror , Elstein Deborah , Zimran Ari , Varon David , Revel‐Vilk Shoshana
Published: March 2011

Patients with type I Gaucher Disease (GD) may have a clinically significant bleeding tendency that is disproportionate to their platelet count. We hypothesized that impaired platelet adhesion might contribute to bleeding tendency. Adult patients with type I GD with platelet counts ≥130 × 109/l and haematocrit ≥30% (n = 48), obligatory carriers (n = 52), and healthy controls (n = 19) were studied. Platelet adhesion, using the IMPACT‐R (Cone and Plate(let) Analyser), and platelet aggregation were determined. Type I GD patients had significantly lower platelet adhesion [surface coverage %, median (interquartile range)] 4·6 (3·2–7·5), compared to controls, 8·7 (7·6–10·3), or carriers, 8·1 (6·5–9·4; P = 0·001). Platelet adhesion was not affected by the use of disease‐specific enzyme replacement therapy but was improved in patients after splenectomy, 7·2 (5·8–9·3). Mixing tests showed that the reduced adhesion was an intrinsic platelet defect. Mucosal bleeding was reported in 17 (35·4%) patients and was associated with abnormal adhesion [P = 0·037, with an Odds Ratio (95% confidence interval) of 5·73 (1·1–29·6)]. Five patients (22%) had reduced platelet aggregation, all of whom had reduced platelet adhesion. Platelet aggregation defect was not associated with mucosal bleeding. In conclusion, platelet adhesion defect is a major thrombocytopathy in type I GD patients and can explain part of the increased tendency to bleeding.
Recognition of iodixanol by dendritic cells increases the cellular response in delayed allergic reactions to contrast media
Authors: Antunez C. , Barbaud A. , Gomez E. , Audonnet S. , Lopez S. , Guéant‐Rodriguez R.‐M. , Aimone‐Gastin I. , Gomez F. , Blanca M. , Guéant J.‐L.
Published: March 2011

Background
Delayed reactions to iodine contrast media (CM) account for 1–3% of patients with adverse reactions to iodine CM. The cellular and molecular mechanisms of these reactions remain poorly documented. Although most of these reactions are T cell mediated, the involvement of dendritic cells (DC) has not been investigated sufficiently.

Objective
To determine whether the T cell response to iodixanol requires DC as antigen‐presenting cell and, more particularly, to evaluate the changes induced by iodixanol on DC maturation and in vitro production of cytokines after drug stimulation in patients with maculopapular exanthema.

Methods
Peripheral blood lymphocytes, immature monocyte‐derived DC (imDC) and skin biopsies were obtained from patients with delayed reactions to iodixanol and tolerant subjects. We studied the consequences of the interaction between DC, lymphocytes and iodixanol by phenotype analysis, proliferation and cytokine production.

Results
A T‐cell‐mediated reaction was evidenced in patient biopsies, with a lymphocyte‐rich, peri‐vascular infiltrate. Iodixanol induced maturation of imDC from patients but not from controls, with expression of the co‐stimulatory markers CD83, CD86 and CD40 and an increase in mean fluorescence intensity of CD80, CD86 and HLA‐DR. In the absence of DC, positive cell proliferation to iodixanol was detected in only one patient while the addition of DC produced a positive test in five of the six patients. Similarly, the increase in cytokines (IFN‐γ, IL‐2, IL‐6, IL‐1b and TNF‐α) was higher when imDC were introduced into the culture together with the culprit drug.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance
These results provide evidence for a DC‐mediated mechanism in delayed allergic reactions to CM, influencing T cell proliferation and cytokine production. These new insights will be helpful for designing immunotherapeutic strategies and in vitro diagnostic tests of CM‐delayed reactions.

Cite this as: C. Antunez, A. Barbaud, E. Gomez, S. Audonnet, S. Lopez, R.‐M. Guéant‐Rodriguez, I. Aimone‐ Gastin, F. Gomez, M. Blanca and J.‐L. Guéant, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 657–664.
Effect of transglutaminase on the functional properties of GDL (glucono‐delta‐lactone) cold‐set soybean glycinin gel
Authors: Zhu Jian‐Hua , Yang Xiao‐Quan , Ahmad Ijaz , Zhong Rui‐Min , Qi Jun‐Ru , Zhu Ding‐He
Published: March 2011

Cold‐set soybean glycinin gel was prepared by cross‐linking of soybean glycinin (non‐preheated and preheated) at pH 8.0 and 50 °C using transglutaminase (TG), followed by cold‐set acidification using glucono‐δ‐lactone (GDL). Dynamic oscillatory rheological measurements (both under non‐preheat and preheat conditions) showed that there was a substantial increase in the elastic (G′) and viscous (G″) moduli of enzyme treated gels. The moduli also showed similar frequency dependence. The yield strains of enzyme treated gels were clearly higher than that of the gels without enzyme treatment. Texture profile analysis indicated that preheat and enzyme treatments have beneficial effect on hardness, fracturability and gumminess of gels. Thermal and enzyme treatments have synergetic effect to improve the strength of gels, which is also consistent with the results of rheological measurements. These results demonstrated that heat treatment followed by TG treatment and GDL acidification improved the functional properties of soybean glycinin cold‐set gel.
Physicochemical characteristics and sensory optimisation of pineapple leather snack as affected by glucose syrup and pectin concentrations
Authors: Phimpharian Chanchira , Jangchud Anuvat , Jangchud Kamolwan , Therdthai Nantawan , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon , No Hong Kyoon
Published: March 2011

Effects of glucose syrup (2%, 4%, and 6%) and pectin (0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5%) concentrations on physicochemical characteristics and sensory acceptability of machine‐formed pineapple leather snack were investigated. Changes in glucose syrup and pectin concentrations significantly affected velocity of forming and total soluble solids content of pineapple paste, but did not affect thickness of pineapple leathers. Increasing pectin concentrations generally increased redness (a*) and yellowness (b*), and hardness (tensile force and work) while decreased moisture content and aw of pineapple leathers. Two most acceptable pineapple leathers were prepared with 6% glucose syrup and 0.5–1.0% pectin. Increasing pectin concentration from 1.0% to 1.5% negatively affected toughness acceptability, which was attributed to reduced moisture and aw, and increased tensile force and work. The optimum formulation range consisted of 3.5–6.0% glucose syrup and 0.5–1.0% pectin, yielding products with acceptability scores of 6.7–7.3 (on a 9‐point hedonic scale) for appearance, sourness, sweetness, overall‐taste, toughness and overall‐liking.
Patients’ perceptions of living with epilepsy: a phenomenographic study
Authors: Räty Lena KA , Wilde‐Larsson Bodil M
Published: March 2011

Aim.  The study aimed to describe how patients with epilepsy perceive living with epilepsy.

Background.  Epilepsy signifies a medical diagnosis as well as a social label. Persons living with epilepsy have more psychosocial problems compared with the general population, and stigma is often experienced. Few studies address patients’ life situations as a whole, and there are no studies on how patients perceive living with epilepsy.

Design.  This was a qualitative interview study where 19 outpatients were purposively chosen and interviewed.

Method.  A phenomenographic approach was used for interviewing and for analysing the interviews.

Results.  Living with epilepsy was perceived in two different ways depending on the person’s feelings towards the condition. A positive feeling signified ‘Living with epilepsy means living a normal life – gaining and maintaining control’ with the descriptive categories: ‘Accepting the person with epilepsy’, ‘Taking responsibility’ and ‘Appreciating the good things’. A negative feeling signified ‘Living with epilepsy means living with focus on the condition – conflict and avoidance or resigning to fate’ with the descriptive categories: ‘Struggling with feelings of stigma, prejudices and loss of control’ and ‘Giving up hope of recovery, accepting loss of control’.

Conclusion.  The findings indicate that patients’ perceptions of living with epilepsy are closely related to their feelings towards the condition. There is a need for further exploration of the relationship between perceptions of epilepsy as a phenomenon, perceptions of living with epilepsy and feelings related to the condition.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings demonstrated how important feelings and perceptions are to how patients with epilepsy regard themselves. This knowledge is essential for nurses when helping patients to better understand underlying reasons for their reactions to various situations. Forming interventions to help patients with epilepsy to find coping strategies that enhance self‐esteem and self‐value is another area of relevance.
Grandfathering in a new era of parentage analysis
Authors: MOBLEY KENYON B.
Published: March 2011

The advent of DNA fingerprinting and microsatellite techniques has revolutionized the way in which we investigate genetic pedigrees in the wild (Pemberton 2008). With large and often incomplete data sets consisting of hundreds to thousands of individuals over multiple generations becoming commonplace, new methods in parentage analysis are being developed to rise to the next generation of questions and challenges. In this issue, Christie et al. (2011) provide a simple yet elegant solution to the problem of identifying missing parents and assessing hybrid fitness in a mixed population of wild and hatchery steelhead trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) where not all individuals can be sampled effectively. They develop a new method of grandparent analysis where parental genotypes can be reconstructed using data from candidate grandparent crosses and F2 offspring genotypes, allowing for new explorations of hybridization, migration and gene flow in wild populations.
Serpentinites act as sponges for fluid‐mobile elements in abyssal and subduction zone environments
Authors: Deschamps Fabien , Guillot Stéphane , Godard Marguerite , Andreani Muriel , Hattori Kéiko
Published: March 2011

Terra Nova, 23, 171–178, 2011

Serpentinization of the oceanic lithosphere contributes significantly to the geochemical cycle from spreading ridges to subduction zones. In situ trace element analysis of oceanic serpentinites from the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge and the Greater Antilles (Cuba, Dominican Republic) shows that all serpentine minerals are enriched in fluid‐mobile elements (FME: As, Sb, B, Li, Cs, Pb, U, Ba, Sr). We observe no loss of these elements from abyssal to subduction environments during prograde metamorphism. Moreover, the transition from lizardite/chrysotile to antigorite during subduction is marked by a strong over‐enrichment in As and Sb in antigorite, indicating late contamination by a sedimentary source. This suggests that a second stage of serpentinization occurs in the earlier stages of subduction, when newly formed or reactivated normal faults ease fluid penetration, and/or in the subduction channel. Our study shows that, from spreading ridges to forearc environments, serpentines act as sponges for FME. We posit that, until ultimate antigorite breakdown, serpentinites efficiently transport significant amounts of FME down to great depths in the mantle.
Sterile panniculitis in dogs: new diagnostic findings and alternative treatments
Authors: Kim Ha‐Jung , Kang Min‐Hee , Kim Jung‐Hyun , Kim Daeyoung , Park Hee‐Myung
Published: March 2011

The objective of this study was to analyse the underlying diseases, diagnostic findings and treatment outcomes in 10 dogs with sterile panniculitis. There was no significant breed association in this study (P = 0.86).The median age of the dogs was 7.4 years. Concurrent diseases included atopic dermatitis (four dogs), acute pancreatitis (two dogs) and primary hypoadrenocorticism (one dog), with no concurrent conditions detected in three dogs. There was no significant association with the sterile panniculitis (P = 0.57). Well‐circumscribed firm nodules were noted in seven dogs, and ill‐defined soft nodules were observed in three dogs. Bacterial and fungal cultures of biopsy samples were negative in all cases. Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of the nodules revealed pleomorphic mesenchymal cells in all of the well‐circumscribed firm nodules, whereas numerous inflammatory cells and adipose cells were evident in soft nodules. These results indicate that firm nodules in panniculitis could be misdiagnosed as tumours. Immunosuppressive therapy was used in eight cases. Topical dexamethasone was used in four dogs, intralesional dexamethasone in one dog, oral prednisolone plus ciclosporin in two dogs and oral prednisolone only in one dog. The remaining treatments were surgical excision and systemic cefalexin in one dog each. The lesions regressed within 1 week in all cases, with more rapid remission following systemic immunosuppressive therapy. This study suggests that cytology may be misinterpreted as neoplastic, especially with firm lesions. In addition, topical glucocorticoid therapy should be further evaluated as a potential treatment for canine sterile panniculitis.
Effects of quinoa hull meal on piglet performance and intestinal epithelial physiology
Authors: Carlson D. , Fernandez J. A. , Poulsen H. D. , Nielsen B. , Jacobsen S.‐E.
Published: March 2011

Saponin‐containing feed additives have shown positive effects on pig performance. Quinoa hull has high saponin content and may be of interest as a feed additive. This study aimed to evaluate quinoa hull meal (QHM) as a feed additive in a pig diet. The effects of QHM were assessed for three dosages of South American (SA) origin (100, 300 and 500 mg/kg) and one dosage of Danish (DK) quinoa (300 mg/kg). In addition, the effect of dietary SA‐QHM and SA‐QHM‐extract on jejunal epithelial physiology was studied ex vivo in Ussing chambers. The experiment included 400 piglets weaned at 28 ± 2 days of age and the experimental period was 4 weeks. Piglets were weighed initially and finally and feed intake registered. The ex vivo studies were performed with epithelium from 40 pigs receiving control or SA‐QHM. Epithelium from each pig was placed into eight Ussing chambers, where four concentrations of SA‐QHM‐extract were added. Epithelial permeability, Na+‐dependent glucose transport and serotonin (5‐HT) and theophylline‐induced secretion were measured. The results showed that QHM had no influence on piglet’s growth (p = 0.41) or feed intake (p = 0.17). In spite of a large difference in saponin content between SA‐QHM and DK‐QHM (28.7% and 2.0% w/w respectively) the source did not affect pig performance. The ex vivo studies revealed no effect (p > 0.05) of adding QHM‐extract into the medium. The permeability and glucose induced absorption were highest (p = 0.003 and p = 0.04 respectively) in epithelium from pigs that consumed 100 or 300 mg/kg SA‐QHM. The secretory response to 5‐HT was not affected (p = 0.59) by dietary treatments, but the theophylline‐induced secretion decreased (p = 0.02) with increasing dietary SA‐QHM. The changes in epithelial physiology measured ex vivo did not affect animal performance in vivo in this study.
A basis for the renewal of sterile insect technique for the olive fly, Bactrocera oleae (Rossi)
Authors: Estes A. M. , Nestel D. , Belcari A. , Jessup A. , Rempoulakis P. , Economopoulos A. P.
Published: March 2011

The olive fly (OLF), Bactrocera oleae (Rossi), is an invasive tephritid fruit fly that causes extensive damage to olive crops around the world (especially in the Mediterranean basin and North America). Previous attempts to use the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) for the OLF were not successful because of the inability to rear high quality OLF in the laboratory on an artificial diet. New improvements in rearing methods and additional understanding of the basic biology of the OLF have led to a renewal of interest in using SIT for OLF. This review discusses the history, difficulties, improvements and future directions of OLF mass‐rearing. Issues include: the design of cages and oviposition substrates, cost and quality of artificial diets, maintenance of endosymbiotic microbiota, control of pathogenic microbes, collection of pupae, the fitness of adults, and the competitiveness of sterilized laboratory males released to the field.
Assessment of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Sperm DNA Fragmentation Using a Sperm Chromatin Dispersion Test
Authors: Pawar K , Kaul G
Published: March 2011

Contents

Chromosomal fragmentations or damage in sperm DNA has considerable value in determination of semen quality. However, rapid and/or simple method to assess sperm DNA integrity in buffalo has apparently not been reported. In the present study, SCD was used for the first time in buffalo bulls for assessment of sperm DNA fragmentation. A modified SCD protocol, under bright field microscope was developed and validated by comparison with other routine tests which can be used for processing of samples. The DNA fragmentation index (DFI) from SCD was correlated with semen quality parameters viz. viability (r = −0.68, p < 0.05), membrane integrity (r = −0.74, p < 0.05) and capacitation status (r = −0.69, p < 0.05). The amount of DNA fragmentation assessed by SCD was highly correlated (R = 0.874, p < 0.05) with results of acridine orange test (AOT), a traditional method of assessing DNA damage. There were no significant differences between two observers with regards to scoring dispersion patterns. Therefore, the SCD test can be routinely used for detection of DNA fragmentation in buffalo sperm, with potential for replacing conventional time consuming tests.
Floor mattresses: Another potentially dangerous infant sleeping environment
Authors: Byard Roger W , Winskog Calle
Published: March 2011

Aim:  To identify and characterise cases of infant deaths where the fatal episodes were considered to be because of positional asphyxia from wedging and/or suffocation associated with sleeping on or near a mattress that had been placed on a floor.

Methods:  Retrospective review of autopsy cases from Forensic Science SA, Adelaide, Australia, was performed over a 10‐year period from January 2001 to December 2009 to identify such cases.

Results:  A total of five deaths were identified. In three cases, infants were wedged between the sides of mattresses and a wall or a sofa. In one case, the infant's head was wedged between a mattress side and a chest of drawers, and in the remaining case, the head was pressed into a plastic bag containing clothes. The age range was 2–10 months, with a male‐to‐female ratio of 3:2.

Conclusions:  Although such deaths are not common, they may be more prevalent when there is overcrowding and reduced sleeping space. While the ideal situation is to provide an infant with his or her own sleeping space, infants sleeping on or near floor mattresses can have the risk of asphyxiation reduced if such mattresses are not located close to furniture or walls, and are not near items such as soft materials or plastic sheeting that could cause airway obstruction.
Recurrent mesh erosion and retropubic abscess following anterior intravaginal slingplasty
Authors: Lo Tsia‐Shu , Ashok Kiran
Published: March 2011

Anterior intravaginal slingplasty (IVS), which utilizes multifilament polypropylene mesh is associated with significant risk of mesh erosion and infection. A case of mesh erosion occurred at 6 months following retropubic suburethral IVS sling was referred to our clinic. Complete removal of the protruded tape with primary closure of the vaginal defect was performed. However, repeat vaginal erosion was observed 2 years later. The undermined remaining tape further developed a retropubic purulent abscess. Thereafter, complete mesh removal and debridement in the retropubic space was carried out. The retropubic abscess resulted from the remains of the IVS tape. We emphasize that complicated sequel can develop after incomplete removal of IVS tape when tape erosion is encountered.
Effect of Ramadan fasting on maternal oxidative stress during the second trimester: A preliminary study
Authors: Ozturk Ebru , Balat Ozcan , Ugur Mete Gurol , Yazıcıoglu Caglar , Pence Sadrettin , Erel Özcan , Kul Seval
Published: March 2011

Aim:  To evaluate whether fasting during Ramadan has any significant effects on maternal oxidative stress or fetal health in healthy, pregnant women with an uncomplicated, second‐trimester, singleton pregnancy.

Methods:  During the month of Ramadan, 1–29 September 2008, 42 fasting and 30 non‐fasting pregnant women were enrolled in this prospective controlled study. Total antioxidant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) and the oxidative stress index (OSI) were measured from maternal serum samples taken on a fasting day during Ramadan. The two groups underwent routine follow‐up examinations. At the end of the pregnancy, maternal complications, birth weight and maternal weight gain during the entire pregnancy were noted. To evaluate whether the duration of fasting days (≥10 or ≥15 days) had any significant effects on maternal oxidative stress, pregnant women who observed Ramadan for more than nine days or those who fasted for more than 14 days were compared with the control group in terms of TAS, TOS and OSI.

Results:  No significant differences were observed between the groups studied in terms of TAS, TOS, OSI, maternal age, gestational age, parity, birth weight or weight gain during the pregnancy. The TAS level was evaluated as significantly higher (P = 0.027) in the ≥10 fasting days group compared to the non‐fasting control group, while there were no significant differences between the groups with respect to TOS and OSI.

Conclusion:  Maternal fasting during Ramadan during the second trimester does not have a significant effect on maternal oxidative stress, fetal development or fetal birth weight.
Uterine inversion due to a leiomyoma on postpartum day 41: A case report
Authors: Shirota Kyoko , Ota Takeharu , Tsujioka Hiroshi , Miyamoto Shingo
Published: March 2011

Uterine leiomyomas are common tumors in women of reproductive age and are frequently detected during pregnancy. The major complications during pregnancy include abortion, preterm delivery, abruptio placentae, intrauterine growth retardation, dystocia, and postpartum hemorrhage. Little attention is given to uterine leiomyomas postpartum compared to leiomyomas prior to childbirth. In the present case, a 27‐year‐old woman, gravida 1 para 1, presented with massive vaginal bleeding, urinary retention and lower abdominal pain on postpartum day 41. She was diagnosed with uterine inversion due to leiomyoma. After a vaginal myomectomy, the uterus was re‐placed with a combined vaginal and abdominal approach. Because of timely medical intervention, the patient managed to overcome the crisis and her reproductive organs were successfully preserved.
Recombinant activated factor VII as a promising adjuvant therapy for postpartum hemorrhage in the practice of obstetric anesthesia: Experience from a university hospital in Taiwan
Authors: Jan Jing‐Yi , Lin Shin‐Yu , Lin Chia‐Hui , Lee Chien‐Nan , Fan Shou‐Zen , Han Yin‐Yi
Published: March 2011

Massive postpartum hemorrhage is one of the major complications in the peripartum period. In some critical cases, hemostasis is hard to achieve even after a hysterectomy has been performed. Recombinant activated factor VII has been reported as a promising adjuvant therapy for obstetric hemorrhage, although it remains unlicensed for this indication. Eight cases receiving recombinant activated factor VII in postpartum hemorrhage refractory to the conventional therapy in a Taiwanese hospital were analyzed retrospectively. A good response, defined as bleeding control in 15 min, was achieved in six patients (75%) with a single dose ranging from 55 to 105 µg/kg. The two patients with a poor response were later discovered to have had unsolved birth canal injuries. No drug‐related adverse effects were noted. We recommend that any surgical bleeding should first be controlled, as well as the correction of metabolic and hematological abnormalities; however, in the situation of intractable postpartum hemorrhage, recombinant activated factor VII offers a salvage therapy and should be considered early, even before hysterectomy.
Alcohol tax changes and the use of alcohol in Europe
Authors: ÖSTERBERG ESA L.
Published: March 2011

Introduction and Aims. Different motives in determining the level and structure of alcohol taxes lead to greatly varying alcohol excise duty levels. The aim of this paper is to look at alcohol excise duty rates in European Union (EU) and the mechanisms affecting them. Also the trends in alcohol prices and alcohol consumption will be discussed.

Material. Material concerning alcohol taxes and consumption comes from available statistics and published literature.

Results. This paper shows that despite many attempts the EU has not been able to harmonise alcohol excise duty rates in its member states. The importance of alcohol taxes as an alcohol control measure has decreased as the real value of alcohol excise duty rates has decreased in most EU countries during the last decades.

Discussion. In most European countries the share of alcohol taxes of the price of alcoholic beverages is quite low. Therefore, increasing alcohol excise duty rates would in most countries lead to increased alcohol tax revenues to the public sector. Consequently, increasing alcohol excise duty rates would serve both the fiscal and the health and social policy interests of the state.[Österberg EL. Alcohol tax changes and the use of alcohol in Europe. Drug Alcohol Rev 2011;30:124–129]
PSYCHOLOGICAL BARRIERS IN THE ROAD TO SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT: EVIDENCE FROM PUBLIC SECTOR PROCUREMENT
Authors: PREUSS LUTZ , WALKER HELEN
Published: March 2011

This article provides a conceptual framework for understanding key psychological barriers to implementing sustainable development in procurement process by local government and health care authorities. This task is an important one as a comprehension of psychological barriers is a prerequisite for understanding how individuals engage with the often more visible technical, budgetary or regulatory barriers in sustainable procurement. The article highlights how progress towards sustainable procurement is hampered by a combination of (1) individual factors; (2) organizational factors; (3) small group adaptation processes; (4) adaptation processes within the organization; and (5) external adaptation processes between organizations. The framework thus contributes to filling the conceptual space between human agent and organizational structure by pointing to the importance of cognitive filters and ideational resources that interact at various levels within an organization and in the complex network of formal or informal partners that surround it.
PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT IN SPANISH LOCAL GOVERNMENTS. A CROSS‐CASE COMPARISON STUDY
Authors: TORRES LOURDES , PINA VICENTE , YETANO ANA
Published: March 2011

This paper explores local government in Spain: the nature of and extent to which performance measures are developed and how they are used in some of the biggest Spanish local governments. The features of performance measurement in Spain raise the question of why non‐mandatory performance indicators are introduced and why specific initiatives are undertaken. A cross‐theory strategy allows us to build a wider explanation of the cases studied. This study shows that performance measurement systems are not neutral but conditioned by the environmental context of each local government to fit into its organizational structure. Spanish local governments are experimenting with different approaches – centralized/decentralized, top‐down/bottom‐up, internal/external use – to implement performance measures. A relationship between external use and the top‐down approach, and internal use and the bottom‐up approach can be found. Our results also show that the institutional image value of taking decisions under rational decision‐making models is the primary driver of implementation processes.
Costs of Taxation and Benefits of Public Goods with Multiple Taxes and Goods
Authors: ANDERSON JAMES E. , MARTIN WILL
Published: March 2011

The fact that raising taxes can increase taxed labor supply through income effects is frequently and erroneously used to justify greater public good provision than indicated by traditional, compensated analyses. We develop a model including multiple public goods and taxes and derive measures of the marginal benefits of public goods and the Marginal Cost of Funds (MCF) using both compensated and uncompensated measures. We confirm that the desirability of tax‐financed public projects is independent of the method used. An important innovation is to show that the benefits of public goods must be adjusted by a benefit multiplier not previously seen in the literature if an uncompensated MCF is used.
Taxes, Tuition Fees, and Education for Pleasure
Authors: MALCHOW‐MØLLER NIKOLAJ , NIELSEN SØREN BO , SKAKSEN JAN ROSE
Published: March 2011

The fact that education provides both a productive and a consumptive (nonproductive) return has important and, in some cases, dramatic implications for optimal taxes and tuition fees. Using a simple model, we show that when the consumption share in education is endogenous and tuition fees are unconstrained, the optimal tax/fee system involves regressive income taxes and high tuition fees. A progressive labor income tax system may, on the other hand, be a second‐best response to politically constrained, low tuition fees. Finally, the existence of individuals with different abilities will also move the optimal income tax system toward progressivity.
Multiscale Adaptive Regression Models for Neuroimaging Data
Authors: Li Yimei , Zhu Hongtu , Shen Dinggang , Lin Weili , Gilmore John H. , Ibrahim Joseph G.
Published: March 2011

Neuroimaging studies aim to analyse imaging data with complex spatial patterns in a large number of locations (called voxels) on a two-dimensional surface or in a three-dimensional volume. Conventional analyses of imaging data include two sequential steps: spatially smoothing imaging data and then independently fitting a statistical model at each voxel. However, conventional analyses suffer from the same amount of smoothing throughout the whole image, the arbitrary choice of extent of smoothing and low statistical power in detecting spatial patterns. We propose a multiscale adaptive regression model to integrate the propagation– separation approach with statistical modelling at each voxel for spatial and adaptive analysis of neuroimaging data from multiple subjects. The multiscale adaptive regression model has three features: being spatial, being hierarchical and being adaptive. We use a multiscale adaptive estimation and testing procedure to utilize imaging observations from the neighbouring voxels of the current voxel to calculate parameter estimates and test statistics adaptively. Theoretically, we establish consistency and asymptotic normality of the adaptive parameter estimates and the asymptotic distribution of the adaptive test statistics. Our simulation studies and real data analysis confirm that the multiscale adaptive regression model significantly outperforms conventional analyses of imaging data.
Adaptive Inference for the Mean of a Gaussian Process in Functional Data
Authors: Bunea Florentina , Ivanescu Andrada E. , Wegkamp Marten H.
Published: March 2011

We propose and analyse fully data-driven methods for inference about the mean function of a Gaussian process from a sample of independent trajectories of the process, observed at random time points and corrupted by additive random error. Our methods are based on thresholded least squares estimators relative to an approximating function basis. The variable threshold levels are determined from the data and the resulting estimates adapt to the unknown sparsity of the mean function relative to the approximating basis. These results are obtained via novel oracle inequalities, which are further used to derive the rates of convergence of our mean estimates. In addition, we construct confidence balls that adapt to the unknown regularity of the mean and covariance function of the stochastic process. They are easy to compute since they do not require explicit estimation of the covariance operator of the process. A simulation study shows that the new method performs very well in practice and is robust against large variations that may be introduced by the random-error terms.
Functional Singular Component Analysis
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Müller Hans-Georg , Stadtmüller Ulrich
Published: March 2011

Aiming at quantifying the dependence of pairs of functional data (X,Y), we develop the concept of functional singular value decomposition for covariance and functional singular component analysis, building on the concept of ‘canonical expansion’ of compact operators in functional analysis. We demonstrate the estimation of the resulting singular values, functions and components for the practically relevant case of sparse and noise-contaminated longitudinal data and provide asymptotic consistency results. Expanding bivariate functional data into singular functions emerges as a natural extension of the popular functional principal component analysis for single processes to the case of paired processes. A natural application of the functional singular value decomposition is a measure of functional correlation. Owing to the involvement of an inverse operation, most previously considered functional correlation measures are plagued by numerical instabilities and strong sensitivity to the choice of smoothing parameters. These problems are exacerbated for the case of sparse longitudinal data, on which we focus. The functional correlation measure that is derived from the functional singular value decomposition behaves well with respect to numerical stability and statistical error, as we demonstrate in a simulation study. Practical feasibility for applications to longitudinal data is illustrated with examples from a study on aging and on-line auctions.
Influence of season on some skin properties: winter vs. summer, as experienced by 354 Shanghaiese women of various ages
Authors: Qiu H. , Long X. , Ye J. C. , Hou J. , Senee J. , Laurent A. , Bazin R. , Flament F. , Adam A. , Coutet J. , Piot B.
Published: March 2011

Synopsis

The facial skin of 354 women, aged 18–80, living in Shanghai, was investigated over two successive 6 month periods, summer and winter. Results from clinical assessments indicate that aging signs, such as wrinkling and sagging, are unaffected over such period.

However, physical measurements revealed alterations in some functional criteria of the skin, such as sebum output, skin colour, melanin content of pigmented spots, skin hydration, all being increased during summer. The relationships between all criteria, as well as technical or applied inferences/consequences from this study, are discussed.
Corneobiology and Corneotherapy – a final chapter
Authors: Kligman A. M.
Published: March 2011

Synopsis

The text obtained for this review from Professor Albert Kligman was drawn posthumously from a variety of notes that he had been planning to use to write a review on corneobiology and corneotherapy. It was a review that he had dearly hoped to complete – his final ‘magnum opus’ with reflections on the subject.
Fenretinide metabolism in humans and mice: utilizing pharmacological modulation of its metabolic pathway to increase systemic exposure
Authors: Cooper Jason P , Hwang Kyunghwa , Singh Hardeep , Wang Dong , Reynolds C Patrick , Curley Jr Robert W , Williams Simon C , Maurer Barry J , Kang Min H
Published: March 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE High plasma levels of fenretinide [N‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4‐HPR)] were associated with improved outcome in a phase II clinical trial. Low bioavailability of 4‐HPR has been limiting its therapeutic applications. This study characterized metabolism of 4‐HPR in humans and mice, and to explore the effects of ketoconazole, an inhibitor of CYP3A4, as a modulator to increase 4‐HPR plasma levels in mice and to increase the low bioavailability of 4‐HPR.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH 4‐HPR metabolites were identified by mass spectrometric analysis and levels of 4‐HPR and its metabolites [N‐(4‐methoxyphenyl)retinamide (4‐MPR) and 4‐oxo‐N‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl)retinamide (4‐oxo‐4‐HPR)] were quantified by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Kinetic analysis of enzyme activities and the effects of enzyme inhibitors were performed in pooled human and pooled mouse liver microsomes, and in human cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4 isoenzyme microsomes. In vivo metabolism of 4‐HPR was inhibited in mice.

KEY RESULTS Six 4‐HPR metabolites were identified in the plasma of patients and mice. 4‐HPR was oxidized to 4‐oxo‐4‐HPR, at least in part via human CYP3A4. The CYP3A4 inhibitor ketoconazole significantly reduced 4‐oxo‐4‐HPR formation in both human and mouse liver microsomes. In two strains of mice, co‐administration of ketoconazole with 4‐HPR in vivo significantly increased 4‐HPR plasma concentrations by > twofold over 4‐HPR alone and also increased 4‐oxo‐4‐HPR levels.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Mice may serve as an in vivo model of human 4‐HPR pharmacokinetics. In vivo data suggest that the co‐administration of ketoconazole at normal clinical doses with 4‐HPR may increase systemic exposure to 4‐HPR in humans.
Naringin directly activates inwardly rectifying potassium channels at an overlapping binding site to tertiapin‐Q
Authors: Yow Tin T , Pera Elena , Absalom Nathan , Heblinski Marika , Johnston Graham AR , Hanrahan Jane R , Chebib Mary
Published: March 2011

BACKGROUND G protein‐coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (KIR3) channels are important proteins that regulate numerous physiological processes including excitatory responses in the CNS and the control of heart rate. Flavonoids have been shown to have significant health benefits and are a diverse source of compounds for identifying agents with novel mechanisms of action.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The flavonoid glycoside, naringin, was evaluated on recombinant human KIR3.1–3.4 and KIR3.1–3.2 expressed in Xenopus oocytes using two‐electrode voltage clamp methods. In addition, we evaluated the activity of naringin alone and in the presence of the KIR3 channel blocker tertiapin‐Q (0.5 nM, 1 nM and 3 nM) at recombinant KIR3.1–3.4 channels. Site‐directed mutagenesis was used to identify amino acids within the M1–M2 loop of the KIR3.1F137S mutant channel important for naringin's activity.

KEY RESULTS Naringin (100 µM) had minimal effect on uninjected oocytes but activated KIR3.1–3.4 and KIR3.1–3.2 channels. The activation by naringin of KIR3.1–3.4 channels was inhibited by tertiapin‐Q in a competitive manner. An alanine‐scan performed on the KIR3.1F137S mutant channel, replacing one by one aromatic amino acids within the M1–M2 loop, identified tyrosines 148 and 150 to be significantly contributing to the affinity of naringin as these mutations reduced the activity of naringin by 20‐ and 40‐fold respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These results show that naringin is a direct activator of KIR3 channels and that tertiapin‐Q shares an overlapping binding site on the KIR3.1–3.4. This is the first example of a ligand that activates KIR3 channels by binding to the extracellular M1–M2 linker of the channel.
Spinal neuronal NOS activation mediates sigma‐1 receptor‐induced mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity in mice: involvement of PKC‐dependent GluN1 phosphorylation
Authors: Roh Dae‐Hyun , Choi Sheu‐Ran , Yoon Seo‐Yeon , Kang Suk‐Yun , Moon Ji‐Young , Kwon Soon‐Gu , Han Ho‐Jae , Beitz Alvin J. , Lee Jang‐Hern
Published: March 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE We recently demonstrated that activation of the spinal sigma‐1 receptor induces mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity via calcium‐dependent second messenger cascades and phosphorylation of the spinal NMDA receptor GluN1 subunit (pGluN1). Here we examined the role of NO in this process, as it plays a critical role in PKC‐mediated calcium signalling and the potentiation of NMDA receptor function.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The effects of intrathecal (i.t.) pretreatment with nNOS inhibitors on PRE084 (sigma‐1 receptor agonist)‐induced pain were assessed in mice by use of mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia tests. Western blot analysis, immunoprecipitation and immunohistochemical techniques were used to determine effects of these treatments on spinal pGluN1‐immunoreactive (ir) cells, whether PRE084 induces a time‐dependent modification of nNOS activity in the dorsal horn, and if any changes in nNOS activity can be blocked by sigma‐1 receptor, calcineurin or soluble guanylyl cyclase (sGC) inhibitors.

KEY RESULTS PRE084, injected i.t., induced mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity, and increased the number of PKC‐ and PKA‐dependent pGluN1‐ir cells in spinal cord. This PRE084‐induced hypersensitivity and increase in PKC‐dependent pGluN1 expression were blocked by pretreatment with NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME) or 7‐nitroindazole (7‐NI). PRE084 also time‐dependently decreased the ratio of phosphorylated nNOS (pnNOS) to nNOS expression and the number of spinal pnNOS‐ir cells. This decrease in pnNOS was prevented by BD1047, a sigma‐1 receptor antagonist and cyclosporin A, a calcineurin inhibitor, but not by a sGC inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Spinal sigma‐1 receptor‐induced sensitization is mediated by an increase in nNOS activity, which is associated with an NO‐induced increase in PKC‐dependent pGluN1 expression.
Tracking Epistemic Violence, Tracking Practices of Silencing
Authors: Dotson Kristie
Published: March 2011

Too often, identifying practices of silencing is a seemingly impossible exercise. Here I claim that attempting to give a conceptual reading of the epistemic violence present when silencing occurs can help distinguish the different ways members of oppressed groups are silenced with respect to testimony. I offer an account of epistemic violence as the failure, owing to pernicious ignorance, of hearers to meet the vulnerabilities of speakers in linguistic exchanges. Ultimately, I illustrate that by focusing on the ways in which hearers fail to meet speaker dependency in a linguistic exchange, efforts can be made to demarcate the different types of silencing people face when attempting to testify from oppressed positions in society.