bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of a highly flexible and comprehensive gene collection representing the ORFeome of the human pathogen Chlamydia pneumoniae
Authors: Maier Christina J , Maier Richard H , Virok Dezso Peter , Maass Matthias , Hintner Helmut , Bauer Johann W , Önder Kamil
Published: November 2012

Background

The Gram-negative bacterium Chlamydia pneumoniae (Cpn) is the leading intracellular human pathogen responsible for respiratory infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis. Basic and applied research in pathogen biology, especially the elaboration of new mechanism-based anti-pathogen strategies, target discovery and drug development, rely heavily on the availability of the entire set of pathogen open reading frames, the ORFeome. The ORFeome of Cpn will enable genome- and proteome-wide systematic analysis of Cpn, which will improve our understanding of the molecular networks and mechanisms underlying and governing its pathogenesis.

Results

Here we report the construction of a comprehensive gene collection covering 98.5% of the 1052 predicted and verified ORFs of Cpn (Chlamydia pneumoniae strain CWL029) in Gateway® ‘entry’ vectors. Based on genomic DNA isolated from the vascular chlamydial strain CV-6, we constructed an ORFeome library that contains 869 unique Gateway® entry clones (83% coverage) and an additional 168 PCR-verified ‘pooled’ entry clones, reaching an overall coverage of ~98.5% of the predicted CWL029 ORFs. The high quality of the ORFeome library was verified by PCR-gel electrophoresis and DNA sequencing, and its functionality was demonstrated by expressing panels of recombinant proteins in Escherichia coli and by genome-wide protein interaction analysis for a test set of three Cpn virulence factors in a yeast 2-hybrid system. The ORFeome is available in different configurations of resource stocks, PCR-products, purified plasmid DNA, and living cultures of E. coli harboring the desired entry clone or pooled entry clones. All resources are available in 96-well microtiterplates.

Conclusion

This first ORFeome library for Cpn provides an essential new tool for this important pathogen. The high coverage of entry clones will enable a systems biology approach for Cpn or host–pathogen analysis. The high yield of recombinant proteins and the promising interactors for Cpn virulence factors described here demonstrate the possibilities for proteome-wide studies.
High viremia and low level of transmitted drug resistance in anti-retroviral therapy-naïve perinatally-infected children and adolescents with HIV-1 subtype C infection
Authors: Neogi Ujjwal , Sahoo Pravat Nalini , De Costa Ayesha , Shet Anita
Published: November 2012

Background

High plasma viremia in HIV-1 infection is associated with rapid CD4 cell decline and faster disease progression. Children with HIV infection have high viral loads, particularly in early childhood. In this study we sought to understand the relationship between duration of HIV-1 infection and viral dynamics among perinatally-infected children and adolescents in India along with transmitted drug resistance in this population.

Methods

During 2007–2011, cross-sectional samples were collected from ART-naïve children (n = 105) with perinatally-acquired HIV infection, aged 2–16 years from Bangalore, India. CD4 counts, viral load and in-house genotyping were performed and transmitted drug resistance mutations were identified using the World Health Organization recommendations for Surveillance of Drug Resistance Mutations (SDRM_2009) list.

Results

Among 105 children studied, 73.3% (77/105) were asymptomatic, but had a median viral load of 5.24 log copies/mL (IQR 4.62-5.66). In the adolescent age group, 54% (21/39) had high levels of viremia (median 5.14 log copies/mL) but were asymptomatic. HIV-1 subtyping identified 98% strains (103/105) as subtype C; one A1 and one unique recombinant form (URF). Transmitted NRTI resistance was 1.9% (2/105); NNRTI resistance was 4.8% (5/105) and overall prevalence of transmitted drug resistance was 5.7% (6/105).

Conclusions

The high burden of plasma viremia found among untreated asymptomatic adolescents needs to be addressed both from an individual angle to halt disease progression, and from a public health perspective to arrest horizontal transmission. The low level of transmitted drug resistance among perinatally-infected children is reassuring; however with improving ART access globally, regular genotyping surveillance is indicated.
Influence of contact with schizophrenia on implicit attitudes towards schizophrenia patients held by clinical residents
Authors: Omori Ataru , Tateno Amane , Ideno Takashi , Takahashi Hidehiko , Kawashima Yoshitaka , Takemura Kazuhisa , Okubo Yoshiro
Published: November 2012

Background

Patients with schizophrenia and their families have suffered greatly from stigmatizing effects. Although many efforts have been made to eradicate both prejudice and stigma, they still prevail even among medical professionals, and little is known about how contact with schizophrenia patients affects their attitudes towards schizophrenia.

Methods

We assessed the impact of the renaming of the Japanese term for schizophrenia on clinical residents and also evaluated the influence of contact with schizophrenia patients on attitudes toward schizophrenia by comparing the attitudes toward schizophrenia before and after a one-month clinical training period in psychiatry. Fifty-one clinical residents participated. Their attitudes toward schizophrenia were assessed twice, before and one month after clinical training in psychiatry using the Implicit Association Test (IAT) as well as Link’s devaluation-discrimination scale.

Results

The old term for schizophrenia, “Seishin-Bunretsu-Byo”, was more congruent with criminal than the new term for schizophrenia, “Togo-Shitcho-Sho”, before clinical training. However, quite opposite to our expectation, after clinical training the new term had become even more congruent with criminal than the old term. There was no significant correlation between Link's scale and IAT effect.

Conclusions

Renaming the Japanese term for schizophrenia still reduced the negative images of schizophrenia among clinical residents. However, contact with schizophrenia patients unexpectedly changed clinical residents’ attitudes towards schizophrenia negatively. Our results might contribute to an understanding of the formation of negative attitudes about schizophrenia and assist in developing appropriate clinical training in psychiatry that could reduce prejudice and stigma concerning schizophrenia.
A dedicated surveillance network for congenital toxoplasmosis in Greece, 2006-2009: assessment of the results
Authors: Aptouramani Maria , Theodoridou Maria , Syrogiannopoulos George , Mentis Andreas , Papaevangelou Vasiliki , Gaitana Katerina , Daponte Alexandros , Hadjichristodoulou Christos ,   the Toxoplasmosis Study Group of the Greece-Cyprus Pediatric Surveillance Unit
Published: November 2012

Background

Toxoplasmosis is caused by infection with the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Acute infections in pregnant women may be transmitted to the fetus and cause severe illness. The purpose of this study was to establish a dedicated surveillance network (DSN) for congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) in Greece, in order to assess the birth prevalence of CT.

Methods

A DSN of thirty clinicians was established for reporting CT cases from hospitals throughout Greece. The clinicians were selected on the basis that there was a high possibility the suspected cases would be referred to them from district hospitals or private clinics. Suspected cases of CT were reported on a monthly basis with a zero reporting card during a surveillance period from April 2006 to December 2009. A questionnaire was sent for any suspected case to record information including demographic parameters, clinical signs and symptoms and laboratory results. Serological and molecular confirmation of cases was performed by the Pasteur Hellenic Institute. All newborns suspected of CT received treatment and were serologically and clinically followed up for one year.

Results

The monthly response rate reached 100%, although only after reminders sent to 65% of the participant physicians. Sixty-three suspected CT cases were recorded by the DSN during the study period including fourteen confirmed and seven probable cases. Ten cases (47.6%) presented with symptoms at birth. Chorioretinitis was the most prominent manifestation, occurring in five symptomatic CT cases (50%). No other symptoms appeared by the end of the one year clinical follow up. No case was recorded by the existing surveillance system of the Hellenic Center of Disease Control and Prevention (HCDCP) during the same time period. Birth prevalence was estimated at 0.45, 0.51 and 0.51 per 10,000 births for 2007, 2008 and 2009 respectively. The incidence rate of symptomatic CT at birth was estimated at 0.10 cases per 10,000 births per year in Greece (for the period 2007–2009).

Conclusion

The DSN for CT proved to be more sensitive than the classical notification system, easy in application and very efficient in reporting rare diseases such as CT. Similar DSNs could be used to provide useful information on other rare diseases.
Coadministration of tacrolimus with corticosteroid accelerates recovery in refractory patients with polymyositis/ dermatomyositis: a retrospective study
Authors: Shimojima Yasuhiro , Ishii Wataru , Matsuda Masayuki , Tazawa Ko-ichi , Ikeda Shu-ichi
Published: November 2012

Background

To investigate whether or not coadministration of tacrolimus (TAC) with prednisolone (PSL) can produce a beneficial effect in the treatment of polymyositis/ dermatomyositis (PM/DM).

Methods

We reviewed medical records of 32 PM/DM patients who had been admitted to our hospital, and abstracted those who had received TAC in addition to oral PSL for treatment. The clinical usefulness of TAC in PM/DM was objectively evaluated focusing upon the manual muscle strength test (MMT) score, serum creatine kinase (CK) and tapering of PSL.

Results

Nine patients with PM and 6 with DM were enrolled in this study. TAC was added because of difficulty in reduction of PSL in 12 patients and recurrence with corticosteroid-induced complications in the remaining 3. Both PM and DM patients showed significant increases in the MMT score and significant decreases in serum CK 1 to 3 months after starting TAC compared with before. Skin symptoms in a clinically amyopathic DM patient also improved 1 month after starting TAC. The daily dosage of PSL could be significantly reduced in both PM and DM after starting TAC compared with before. No serious adverse events ascribable to TAC occurred in any patients.

Conclusion

Additional use of TAC with PSL may safely promote improvement of PM/DM and also accelerate tapering of the latter.
The effects of rear-wheel camber on the kinematics of upper extremity during wheelchair propulsion
Authors: Tsai Chung-Ying , Lin Chien-Ju , Huang Yueh-Chu , Lin Po-Chou , Su Fong-Chin
Published: November 2012

Background

The rear-wheel camber, defined as the inclination of the rear wheels, is usually used in wheelchair sports, but it is becoming increasingly employed in daily propulsion. Although the rear-wheel camber can increase stability, it alters physiological performance during propulsion. The purpose of the study is to investigate the effects of rear-wheel cambers on temporal-spatial parameters, joint angles, and propulsion patterns.

Methods

Twelve inexperienced subjects (22.3±1.6 yr) participated in the study. None had musculoskeletal disorders in their upper extremities. An eight-camera motion capture system was used to collect the three-dimensional trajectory data of markers attached to the wheelchair-user system during propulsion. All participants propelled the same wheelchair, which had an instrumented wheel with cambers of 0°, 9°, and 15°, respectively, at an average velocity of 1 m/s.

Results

The results show that the rear-wheel camber significantly affects the average acceleration, maximum end angle, trunk movement, elbow joint movement, wrist joint movement, and propulsion pattern. The effects are especially significant between 0° and 15°. For a 15° camber, the average acceleration and joint peak angles significantly increased (p < 0.01). A single loop pattern (SLOP) was adopted by most of the subjects.

Conclusions

The rear-wheel camber affects propulsion patterns and joint range of motion. When choosing a wheelchair with camber adjustment, the increase of joint movements and the base of support should be taken into consideration.
Comparative studies of Al-doped ZnO and Ga-doped ZnO transparent conducting oxide thin films
Authors: Jun Min-Chul , Park Sang-Uk , Koh Jung-Hyuk
Published: November 2012

We have investigated the influences of aluminum and gallium dopants (0 to 2.0 mol%) on zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films regarding crystallization and electrical and optical properties for application in transparent conducting oxide devices. Al- and Ga-doped ZnO thin films were deposited on glass substrates (corning 1737) by sol–gel spin-coating process. As a starting material, AlCl3⋅6H2O, Ga(NO3)2, and Zn(CH3COO)2⋅2H2O were used. A lowest sheet resistance of 3.3 × 103 Ω/□ was obtained for the GZO thin film doped with 1.5 mol% of Ga after post-annealing at 650°C for 60 min in air. All the films showed more than 85% transparency in the visible region. We have studied the structural and microstructural properties as a function of Al and Ga concentrations through X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analysis. In addition, the optical bandgap and photoluminescence were estimated.
Replication of somatic micronuclei in bovine enucleated oocytes
Authors: Canel Natalia , Bevacqua Romina , Hiriart María Inés , Salamone Daniel
Published: November 2012

Background

Microcell-mediated chromosome transfer (MMCT) was developed to introduce a low number of chromosomes into a host cell. We have designed a novel technique combining part of MMCT with somatic cell nuclear transfer, which consists of injecting a somatic micronucleus into an enucleated oocyte, and inducing its cellular machinery to replicate such micronucleus. It would allow the isolation and manipulation of a single or a low number of somatic chromosomes.

Methods

Micronuclei from adult bovine fibroblasts were produced by incubation in 0.05 μg/ml demecolcine for 46 h followed by 2 mg/ml mitomycin for 2 h. Cells were finally treated with 10 μg/ml cytochalasin B for 1 h. In vitro matured bovine oocytes were mechanically enucleated and intracytoplasmatically injected with one somatic micronucleus, which had been previously exposed [Micronucleus- injected (+)] or not [Micronucleus- injected (−)] to a transgene (50 ng/μl pCX-EGFP) during 5 min. Enucleated oocytes [Enucleated (+)] and parthenogenetic [Parthenogenetic (+)] controls were injected into the cytoplasm with less than 10 pl of PVP containing 50 ng/μl pCX-EGFP. A non-injected parthenogenetic control [Parthenogenetic (−)] was also included. Two hours after injection, oocytes and reconstituted embryos were activated by incubation in 5 μM ionomycin for 4 min + 1.9 mM 6-DMAP for 3 h. Cleavage stage and egfp expression were evaluated. DNA replication was confirmed by DAPI staining. On day 2, Micronucleus- injected (−), Parthenogenetic (−) and in vitro fertilized (IVF) embryos were karyotyped. Differences among treatments were determined by Fisher′s exact test (p≤0.05).

Results

All the experimental groups underwent the first cell divisions. Interestingly, a low number of Micronucleus-injected embryos showed egfp expression. DAPI staining confirmed replication of micronuclei in most of the evaluated embryos. Karyotype analysis revealed that all Micronucleus-injected embryos had fewer than 15 chromosomes per blastomere (from 1 to 13), while none of the IVF and Parthenogenetic controls showed less than 30 chromosomes per spread.

Conclusions

We have developed a new method to replicate somatic micronuclei, by using the replication machinery of the oocyte. This could be a useful tool for making chromosome transfer, which could be previously targeted for transgenesis.
The isotropic fractionator provides evidence for differential loss of hippocampal neurons in two mouse models of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Brautigam Hannah , Steele John W , Westaway David , Fraser Paul E , George-Hyslop Peter H St , Gandy Sam , Hof Patrick R , Dickstein Dara L
Published: November 2012

Background

The accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) oligomers or fibrils is thought to be one of the main causes of synaptic and neuron loss, believed to underlie cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Neuron loss has rarely been documented in amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgenic mouse models. We investigated whether two APP mouse models characterized by different folding states of amyloid showed different neuronal densities using an accurate method of cell counting.

Findings

We examined total cell and neuronal populations in Swedish/Indiana APP mutant mice (TgCRND8) with severe Aβ pathology that includes fibrils, plaques, and oligomers, and Dutch APP mutant mice with only Aβ oligomer pathology. Using the isotropic fractionator, we found no differences from control mice in regional total cell populations in either TgCRND8 or Dutch mice. However, there were 31.8% fewer hippocampal neurons in TgCRND8 compared to controls, while no such changes were observed in Dutch mice.

Conclusions

We show that the isotropic fractionator is a convenient method for estimating neuronal content in milligram quantities of brain tissue and represents a useful tool to assess cell loss efficiently in transgenic models with different types of neuropathology. Our data support the hypothesis that TgCRND8 mice with a spectrum of Aβ plaque, fibril, and oligomer pathology exhibit neuronal loss whereas Dutch mice with only oligomers, showed no evidence for neuronal loss. This suggests that the combination of plaques, fibrils, and oligomers causes more damage to mouse hippocampal neurons than Aβ oligomers alone.
Sequence based analysis of U-2973, a cell line established from a double-hit B-cell lymphoma with concurrent MYC and BCL2 rearrangements
Authors: Hooper Sean D , Jiao Xiang , Sundström Elisabeth , Rehman Farah L , Tellgren-Roth Christian , Sjöblom Tobias , Cavelier Lucia
Published: November 2012

Background

Double-hit lymphoma is a complex and highly aggressive sub-type of B-cell lymphoma, which has recently been classified and is an area of active research interest due to the poor prognosis for patients with this disease. It is characterized by the presence of both an activating MYC chromosomal translocation and a simultaneous additional oncogenic translocation, often of the BCL2 gene. Recently, a cell line was established from a patient with this complex lymphoma and analyzed using conventional tools revealing it contains both MYC and BCL2 translocation events.

Findings

In this work, we reanalyzed the genome of the cell line using next generation whole genome sequencing technology in order to catalogue translocations, insertions and deletions which may contribute to the pathology of this lymphoma type.

Conclusions

We describe the cell line in much greater detail, and pinpoint the exact locations of the chromosomal breakpoints. We also find several rearrangements within cancer-associated genes, which were not found using conventional tools, suggesting that high throughput sequencing may reveal novel targets for therapy, which could be used concurrently with existing treatments.
Adverse event reporting in adult intensive care units and the impact of a multifaceted intervention on drug-related adverse events
Authors: Pagnamenta Alberto , Rabito Giovanni , Arosio Alessandra , Perren Andreas , Malacrida Roberto , Barazzoni Fabrizio , Domenighetti Guido
Published: November 2012

Background

Adverse events (AEs) frequently occur in intensive care units (ICUs) and affect negatively patient outcomes. Targeted improvement strategies for patient safety are difficult to evaluate because of the intrinsic limitations of reporting crude AE rates. Single interventions influence positively the quality of care, but a multifaceted approach has been tested only in selected cases. The present study was designed to evaluate the rate, types, and contributing factors of emerging AEs and test the hypothesis that a multifaceted intervention on medication might reduce drug-related AEs.

Methods

This is a prospective, multicenter, before-and-after study of adult patients admitted to four ICUs during a 24-month period. Voluntary, anonymous, self-reporting of AEs was performed using a detailed, locally designed questionnaire. The temporal impact of a multifaceted implementation strategy to reduce drug-related AEs was evaluated using the risk-index scores methodology.

Results

A total of 2,047 AEs were reported (32 events per 100 ICU patient admissions and 117.4 events per 1,000 ICU patient days) from 6,404 patients, totaling 17,434 patient days. Nurses submitted the majority of questionnaires (n = 1,781, 87%). AEs were eye-witnessed in 49% (n = 1,003) of cases and occurred preferentially during an elective procedure (n = 1,597, 78%) and on morning shifts (n = 1,003, 49%), with a peak rate occurring around 10 a.m. Drug-related AEs were the most prevalent (n = 984, 48%), mainly as a consequence of incorrect prescriptions. Poor communication among caregivers (n = 776) and noncompliance with internal guidelines (n = 525) were the most prevalent contributing factors for AE occurrence. The majority of AEs (n = 1155, 56.4%) was associated with minimal, temporary harm. Risk-index scores for drug-related AEs decreased from 10.01 ± 2.7 to 8.72 ± 3.52 (absolute risk difference 1.29; 95% confidence interval, 0.88-1.7; p < 0.01) following the introduction of the intervention.

Conclusions

AEs occurred in the ICU with a typical diurnal frequency distribution. Medication-related AEs were the most prevalent. By applying the risk-index scores methodology, we were able to demonstrate that our multifaceted implementation strategy focused on medication-related adverse events allowed to decrease drug related incidents.
Excessive bone formation in a mouse model of ankylosing spondylitis is associated with decreases in Wnt pathway inhibitors
Authors: Haynes Katelin R , Pettit Allison R , Duan Ran , Tseng Hsu-Wen , Glant Tibor T , Brown Matthew A , Thomas Gethin P
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is unique in its pathology where inflammation commences at the entheses before progressing to an osteoproliferative phenotype generating excessive bone formation that can result in joint fusion. The underlying mechanisms of this progression are poorly understood. Recent work has suggested that changes in Wnt signalling, a key bone regulatory pathway, may contribute to joint ankylosis in AS. Using the proteoglycan-induced spondylitis (PGISp) mouse model which displays spondylitis and eventual joint fusion following an initial inflammatory stimulus, we have characterised the structural and molecular changes that underlie disease progression.

Methods

PGISp mice were characterised 12 weeks after initiation of inflammation using histology, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and expression profiling.

Results

Inflammation initiated at the periphery of the intervertebral discs progressing to disc destruction followed by massively excessive cartilage and bone matrix formation, as demonstrated by toluidine blue staining and IHC for collagen type I and osteocalcin, leading to syndesmophyte formation. Expression levels of DKK1 and SOST, Wnt signalling inhibitors highly expressed in joints, were reduced by 49% and 63% respectively in the spine PGISp compared with control mice (P < 0.05) with SOST inhibition confirmed by IHC. Microarray profiling showed genes involved in inflammation and immune-regulation were altered. Further, a number of genes specifically involved in bone regulation including other members of the Wnt pathway were also dysregulated.

Conclusions

This study implicates the Wnt pathway as a likely mediator of the mechanism by which inflammation induces bony ankylosis in spondyloarthritis, raising the potential that therapies targeting this pathway may be effective in preventing this process.
A Tale of Two Citizens: A State Attorney General and a Hematologist Facilitate Translation of Research Into US Food and Drug Administration Actions—A SONAR Report
Authors: Chen Brian , Restaino John , Norris LeAnn , Xirasagar Sudha , Qureshi Zaina P. , McKoy June M. , Lopez Isaac S. , Trenery Alyssa , Murday Alanna , Kahn Adam , Mattison Donald R. , Ray Paul , Sartor Oliver , Bennett Charles L.
Published: November 2012

The authors reviewed FDA and manufacturer responses to a citizen petition filed to address thalidomide safety issues and concluded that new approaches addressing off-label safety are needed.
Patient-Reported Discontinuation of Endocrine Therapy and Related Adverse Effects Among Women With Early-Stage Breast Cancer
Authors: Aiello Bowles Erin J. , Boudreau Denise M. , Chubak Jessica , Yu Onchee , Fujii Monica , Chestnut Janet , Buist Diana S.M.
Published: November 2012

Few individual adverse effects or patient characteristics were significantly associated with endocrine therapy discontinuation, yet adverse effects were prevalent and were the most commonly reported reason for discontinuation.
Clinical Practice Guidelines for Cancer Care: Utilization and Expectations of the Practicing Oncologist
Authors: Dillmon Melissa , Goldberg John M. , Ramalingam Suresh S. , Mayer Robert J. , Loehrer Patrick , Van Poznak Catherine
Published: November 2012

In a time of rapid change in practice and research in cancer, ASCO can play a pivotal role in patient care through major revisions to guideline development, accessibility, and integration with quality metrics.
Technology Resource Planning in Radiation Oncology: Application of a Needs-Based Analytic Framework to Radiosurgery Planning in Ontario
Authors: Greenspoon Jeffrey N. , O'Reilly Daria , Wright James R. , Whitton Anthony , Sussman Jonathan , Birch Stephen
Published: November 2012

The authors demonstrate through the example of single brain metastases in Ontario that it is feasible to perform explicit needs-based resource planning in radiation oncology.
Tif1γ is essential for the terminal differentiation of mammary alveolar epithelial cells and for lactation through SMAD4 inhibition
Authors: Hesling Cédric , Lopez Jonathan , Fattet Laurent , Gonzalo Philippe , Treilleux Isabelle , Blanchard Daphné , Losson Régine , Goffin Vincent , Pigat Natascha , Puisieux Alain , Mikaelian Ivan , Gillet Germain , Rimokh Ruth
Published: November 2012

Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) is widely recognised as an important factor that regulates many steps of normal mammary gland (MG) development, including branching morphogenesis, functional differentiation and involution. Tif1γ has previously been reported to temporally and spatially control TGFβ signalling during early vertebrate development by exerting negative effects over SMAD4 availability. To evaluate the contribution of Tif1 γ to MG development, we developed a Cre/LoxP system to specifically invalidate the Tif1g gene in mammary epithelial cells in vivo. Tif1g-null mammary gland development appeared to be normal and no defects were observed during the lifespan of virgin mice. However, a lactation defect was observed in mammary glands of Tif1g-null mice. We demonstrate that Tif1 γ is essential for the terminal differentiation of alveolar epithelial cells at the end of pregnancy and to ensure lactation. Tif1 γ appears to play a crucial role in the crosstalk between TGFβ and prolactin pathways by negatively regulating both PRL receptor expression and STAT5 phosphorylation, thereby impairing the subsequent transactivation of PRL target genes. Using HC11 cells as a model, we demonstrate that the effects of Tif1g knockdown on lactation depend on both SMAD4 and TGFβ. Interestingly, we found that the Tif1γ expression pattern in mammary epithelial cells is almost symmetrically opposite to that described for TGFβ. We propose that Tif1γ contributes to the repression of TGFβ activity during late pregnancy and prevents lactation by inhibiting SMAD4.
Enhanced erythropoiesis in mice exposed to low environmental temperature
Authors: Maekawa Shun , Iemura Hitomi , Kato Takashi
Published: November 2012

Hematopoietic responses to environmental factors are not fully characterized. Polycythemia has been reported during exposure to low temperatures in ectothermic animals. The relationship between the causes of polycythemia and erythropoiesis during low-temperature exposure is not fully understood. In this study, we exposed C57BL/6 mice to 5°C and monitored the blood cell counts and erythropoiesis. The hematocrit level increased from 45.6% to 52.2% after 14 days. Likewise, the hemoglobin concentration, initially 15.1 gdL-1, rose to 16.0 gdL-1. The reticulocyte production index significantly increased from 4% to 8% after seven days. We examined the anatomy and cell composition of the spleens of the mice. On day 5, the spleens were approximately 6 mgg-1 of body weight, which was two-fold greater than the spleens on day 0. Flow cytometry showed four-fold more proerythroblasts on day 5, compared with day 0. Additionally, the number of late-stage mature erythroblasts increased on days 14. Erythropoietin mRNA levels increased in the kidneys, and hypoxia inducible genes were enhanced in the kidney. Our findings indicated that low ambient temperature is a novel erythropoietic stress, that induces polycythemia by enhanced erythropoiesis.
Sperm metabolism in pig: a role for peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ
Authors: Santoro Marta , Guido Carmela , De Amicis Francesca , Sisci Diego , Vizza Donatella , Gervasi Serena , Carpino Amalia , Aquila Saveria
Published: November 2012

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a nuclear hormone receptor expressed predominantly in adipose tissue, and it is implicated in energy homeostasis. In this study, by Western blotting and Immunofluorescence techniques, we demonstrated for the first time that pig spermatozoa express the PPARγ. To investigate the functional role of PPARγ in pig sperm, we evaluated its action on different events that characterize the biology of sperm cell as motility, capacitation, viability and acrosome reaction, using 15-deoxy-12,14-prostaglandin J2 (PGJ2) PPARγ-agonist. Responses to PGJ2 treatments on motility, cholesterol efflux and tyrosine phosphorylation were increased and this broadens the roles of PPARγ in the literature, since it also acts to ameliorate sperm functionality. To deepen PPARγ significance in pig sperm we focused its effects on lipid and glucose metabolism. The evaluation of the triglycerides content, lipase and acyl-CoA dehydrogenase as well as G6PDH activities, suggests that PPARγ induces energy expenditure in pig spermatozoa. These data represent a meaningful advance in the field of sperm energy metabolism since this is an intriguing issue at the beginning of the knowledge. Taken together, our results demonstrated for the first time that PPARγ is expressed by pig sperm improving its functionalities such as motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction, survival and metabolism. The use of PPARγ-agonists may be considered a strategy in the procedures of artificial insemination or other biotechnologies, including cryopreservation.
Recent Developments in the Reactivity of Stable Disilynes
Authors: Asay Matthew , Sekiguchi Akira
Published: November 2012

Unsaturated main group 14 species have unique properties and reactivity compared with their organic analogues. The isolation of stable disilynes, one of the most recent and intriguing additions to the catalog of unsaturated main group species, has opened the way for further studies into the differences between organic molecules and their heavy analogues. Since the isolation of the first disilyne, the reactivity and properties of these species has been the subject of numerous studies. Herein, the recent developments and results pertaining to the reactivity of disilynes are discussed.
Decomposed and non-decomposed bodies retrieved from water: a comparative approach
Authors: Ambade Vipul Namdeorao , Kukde Hemant Ghanshyam , Malani Ajit , Tumram Nilesh Keshav , Borkar Jaydeo Laxman , Batra Anil Krishnaram , Meshram Satin Kalidas
Published: November 2012

The cause and manner of death in submersion cases are a routine challenge for forensic pathologists as they present considerable diagnostic difficulties. The present study was undertaken with a view to determine the characteristic pattern in bodies retrieved from water. From a total of 6779 medicolegal deaths reported at an Apex Medical Centre, Yeotmal, a rural district of Maharashtra over a 10-year study period, only 110 cases (1.6%) were decomposed and 243 cases (3.6%) were non-decomposed bodies retrieved from water with a rate of 0.6 decomposed body as compared with 1.4 non-decomposed bodies per 100,000 population per year. However, out of total 353 bodies retrieved from water, 31.2% were decomposed and 68.8% non-decomposed. Male predominance was seen in both groups with peak at 31-40 years. The cause and manner of death were ascertained as 89.9% and 82.7%, respectively, in decomposed bodies as compared with 100% and 96.3%, respectively, in non-decomposed bodies. Drowning was the commonest cause of death in both groups with suicide as the commonest manner of death in decomposed bodies in contrast to accidental in non-decomposed bodies. Excessive amount of pleural fluid, aquatic animal activity and mud/vegetation in lower respiratory tract was more commonly encountered in decomposed bodies. However, fine white froth was not seen in any of the cases in contrast to 81% non-decomposed bodies. Bodies were commonly recovered from wells in both groups. Most of the bodies were retrieved in the rainy season followed by summer and winter seasons in both groups.
The impact of direction of great saphenous vein total stripping on saphenous nerve injury
Authors: Papakostas J C , Douitsis E , Sarmas I , Avgos S , Kyritsis A , Matsagkas M
Published: November 2012

Objectives

To examine and compare the effects of downwards versus upwards total stripping of great saphenous vein (GSV) on saphenous nerve (SN) injury using clinical and electrophysiological studies.

Methods

Fifty patients with varicosities were equally and randomly assigned to undergo total, upwards stripping (group A) or downwards stripping (group B) of GSV during saphenectomy. SN function was measured with electroneurogram (ENG) before operation, two weeks and 12 weeks after, in order to record the incidence and type of SN injury. Clinical signs of SN injury were also recorded at the same time points. The results were statistically analysed.

Results

There were no statistical significant differences on the occurrence of SN injury between groups A and B at two and 12 weeks, respectively, as confirmed with ENG studies and clinical evaluation. There were no differences between the two techniques with regard to the type of SN injury. SN injury was significantly ameliorated from 34% to 6% during the first three months.

Conclusion

SN injury was equally observed after downwards or upwards total stripping of the GSV, as confirmed by ENG and clinical evaluation, with no differences in injury type. SN injury tends to be relieved through time in most patients.
Assessment of jugular endovascular malformations in chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency: colour-Doppler scanning and catheter venography compared with intravascular ultrasound
Authors: Scalise F , Farina M , Manfredi M , Auguadro C , Novelli E
Published: November 2012

Objectives

Chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) is a malformative condition characterized by several anomalies of the azygos and/or internal jugular veins (IJVs). Recommended diagnosis of CCSVI is performed with colour-Doppler (CD) sonography. Though catheter venography (CV) is considered as the gold standard for determining vascular anatomy, its uniplanar point of view does not allow an overall evaluation of endoluminal structures. This limit could be addressed by intravascular ultrasound (IVUS). The aim of this report is to evaluate, in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), the accuracy of CD sonography and CV versus IVUS in estimating the diameter and the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the IJVs and in detecting jugular endoluminal malformations (JEM).

Method

Forty-five MS patients with CCSVI, diagnosed by CD sonography, were submitted to CV during IJVs angioplasty. Twenty-five subjects were also examined with IVUS. The IJVs maximum diameter (MAXD) and CSA were estimated. CD and CV data were compared with IVUS data with the Bland-Altman method.

Results

The mean difference in IJV MAXD recorded by CD and IVUS was —0.5 mm. The mean difference in IJV MAXD recorded by CV and IVUS was 3.36 mm. The mean difference in IJV CSA recorded by CD and IVUS was —11.2 mm2. JEM recorded by IVUS were detected by CD sonography and CV with 88% and 32% accuracy, respectively.

Conclusions

CV was significantly inferior to CD sonography and IVUS in detecting JEM. Differences between IVUS and CD sonography in detecting JEM and in quantifying jugular diameters were not significant. The IJV CSA was underestimated by CD sonography compared with IVUS. CD sonography was proven to be important in the anatomical characterization of CCSVI, providing useful information for correct intravascular treatment.
Catalytic Appel reactions
Authors: van Kalkeren Henri A. , van Delft Floris L. , Rutjes Floris P. J. T.
Published: November 2012

Organophosphorus chemistry plays a key role in the modern synthesis of organic compounds. The formation of phosphine oxides from phosphines often drives reactions to completion. However, these oxides also result in waste and purification issues. Organophosphorus catalysis aims to address these problems, and in this paper we present our progress in developing and utilizing new organophosphorus catalysts. More specifically, the in situ reduction of a range of cyclic phosphine oxides was explored, leading to the development of dibenzophospholes as new organophosphorus catalysts and the application thereof in the phosphorus-mediated substitution of alcohols by halides, which is also known as the Appel reaction. We show that the electronic fine-tuning of the catalyst is crucial for the success of the reaction and that the development of reactions using the in situ reduction protocol all depends on finding the right balance in the reactivities of the reaction components. This balance has been successfully found for the bromination of alcohols, and significant progress has been made for the chlorination reactions.
Social Interaction Screen. Making Social Networking Services Accessible for Elderly People
Authors: Burkhard Martin , Koch Michael
Published: November 2012

Social Networking Services could strengthen social ties between elderly people and families and friends. Due to the implications of aging and technical barriers existing user interfaces prove to be too complex and therefore not appropriate for most of the elderly. The goal of this paper is to present a holistic solution to enhance accessibility to Social Networks for elderly people. The solution combines an adapted (tablet) hardware, an adapted graphical user interface, and an adapted middleware for accessing the Social Networks.
Autonomously Driving Trains on Open Tracks — Concepts, System Architecture and Implementation Aspects
Authors: Gebauer Oliver , Pree Wolfgang , Stadlmann Burkhard
Published: November 2012

This paper describes a cyber-physical system that we called autoBAHN as well as some economic and legal aspects for the realization of the vision of a driverless train operating on openly accessible existing railroads, particularly regional branch lines. Existing autonomous trains, e. g., in use on airports, do not need obstacle recognition because they operate on closed tracks that cannot be accessed by humans and have no intersections with roads. The vision is to economically offer a train frequency of about 10 min on regional branch lines. This requires more but smaller trains. As it would not be economically feasible to operate them with human drivers, they need to be autonomous. As it would again not be economically feasible to change the infrastructure (from open to closed tracks), the autonomous trains need to recognize potential obstacles on or near tracks analogous to autonomous cars. First we describe how train intervals of about 10 min can be achieved on single-track railroads. What kind and degree of changes in infrastructural equipment is necessary was validated with the help of a discrete event simulation. The focus of the paper is on the overall system architecture of the prototypical autonomous train that we have implemented and in particular on obstacle recognition. Finally, the current legislation in German speaking countries is surveyed for the assessment of whether an autonomously operating railway system can become reality in the future.
A cohort effect on serum testosterone levels in Finnish men
Authors: Perheentupa A , Mäkinen J , Laatikainen T , Vierula M , Skakkebaek N E , Andersson A-M , Toppari J
Published: November 2012

Objective

To investigate whether a population-level decline in serum testosterone exists in Finnish men. In comparison with other European populations, Finnish men have compared well in the studies of reproductive health (i.e. semen quality, incidence of cryptorchidism and testicular cancer); thus, we expected no significant cohort-dependent decrease in serum testosterone.

Methods

We analysed serum levels of testosterone, gonadotrophin and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in 3271 men representing different ages (25–74 years) and birth cohorts within three large Finnish population surveys conducted in 1972, 1977 and 2002.

Results

Serum testosterone levels decreased (from 25.3 nmol/l in 25- to 29-year-old men gradually to 16.9 nmol/l in 70- to 74-year-old men), whereas SHBG and gonadotrophin levels increased with increasing age. In addition, a significant secular trend in testosterone (total and free), SHBG and gonadotrophin levels was observed with lower levels in more recently born age-matched men. Serum testosterone level decreased in men aged 60–69 years from 21.9 nmol/l (men born 1913–1922) to 13.8 nmol/l (men born 1942–1951). These decreases remained significant following adjustment for BMI. An age-independent birth cohort effect existed on reproductive hormones measured in the Finnish men. In concert with the lower free testosterone levels, we observed lower gonadotrophin levels, suggesting that while there may be detrimental changes at the gonad level, the hypothalamus–pituitary–axis is not responding appropriately to this change.

Conclusions

The more recently born Finnish men have lower testosterone levels than their earlier born peers. This study offers no explanation for this substantial recent adverse development.
Evaluation of the agronomic and environmental aspects of the direct application of Algerian rock phosphate to acidic soils in field experiments in Hungary
Authors: Csathó Péter , Magyar Marianna , Holló Sándor , Németh István , Giczi Zsolt , Németh Tamás
Published: November 2012

Az évi 80 kg P2O5·ha-1trágyázás, ill. a 400 kg P2O5·ha-1adagú tartalékoló P-trágyázás hatását – reaktív (lisztfinomságúra őrölve jó természetes P-oldhatóságú, „lágy”, üledékes) algériai nyersfoszfát, ill. Kola-foszfátból előállított szuperfoszfát formájában kijuttatva – két hazai, közepesen–erősen savanyú talajon 5 éves szabadföldi kísérletben vizsgáltuk. A kompolti csernozjom barna erdőtalaj gyenge– közepes, a szentgyörgyvölgyi pszeudoglejes barna erdőtalaj közepes–jó P-ellátottsággal volt jellemezhető a kísérletek beállításakor. A két P-forma P-szolgáltatását a vizsgált módszerek közül a H2O-P talaj P-teszt jellemezte a legpontosabban. Az AL-módszer felülbecsülte, az Olsen-módszer pedig alulértékelte a nyersfoszfát formájában kiadott foszfornak a növények által való felvehetőségét. A két P-forma, ill. a két P-trágyázási rendszer a kísérletek első 5 éves ciklusában azonos hatékonyságúnak bizonyult mind a főtermés, mind a kivont foszfor vonatkozásában. A P-hasznosulás a gyenge–közepes P-ellátottságú kompolti talajon több mint két-háromszorosa (7–10%) volt, mint a közepes–jó P-ellátottságú szentgyörgyvölgyi talajon (2–5%). A P-trágyázott kezelésekben az 5. évben kapott, továbbra is pozitív P-mérlegek azt valószínűsítik, hogy a P-trágyázás megszüntetése esetén, ezekben a kezelésekben a korábban adott, a talajban maradt műtrágya-P további hasznosulása várható. Algériai nyersfoszfát kijuttatásával nem növekedett a könnyen oldható (LE, Lakanen-Erviő) Cd-, ill. Cr-tartalom a talajban. A Kola-foszfát alapú szuperfoszfát hatására viszont nagyobb LE-Sr koncentrációkat kaptunk. Közepesen savanyú hazai talajainkon a kitűnő természetes oldékonyságú, olcsóbb algériai nyersfoszfát jól helyettesítheti a környezetet tovább savanyító, drágább szuperfoszfátot, ill. a nagy foszfortartalmú komplex, ill. kevert műtrágyákat. A külföldi gyakorlatnak megfelelően, közepesen, vagy erősen savanyú talajokon, nyersfoszfát alkalmazásakor a vízoldható formában indokolt adagok másfélszeresét-dupláját javasoljuk kijuttatni. A lisztfinomságúra őrölt üledékes, reaktív nyersfoszfátok közül csupán a 20 mg·kg-1Cd-tartalom alattiak közvetlen kijuttatását tartjuk környezeti kockázat szempontjából elfogadhatónak.
Challenges facing carbon dioxide labelling of construction materials
Authors: Ng S. Thomas , Wong James M. W. , Skitmore Martin
Published: November 2012

In the absence of a benchmarking mechanism specifically designed for local requirements and characteristics, a carbon dioxide footprint assessment and labelling scheme for construction materials is urgently needed to promote carbon dioxide reduction in the construction industry. This paper reports on a recent interview survey of 18 senior industry practitioners in Hong Kong to elicit their knowledge and opinions concerning the potential of such a carbon dioxide labelling scheme. The results of this research indicate the following. A well-designed carbon dioxide label could stimulate demand for low carbon dioxide construction materials. The assessment of carbon dioxide emissions should be extended to different stages of material lifecycles. The benchmarks for low carbon dioxide construction materials should be based on international standards but without sacrificing local integrity. Administration and monitoring of the carbon dioxide labelling scheme could be entrusted to an impartial and independent certification body. The implementation of any carbon dioxide labelling schemes should be on a voluntary basis. Cost, functionality, quality and durability are unlikely to be replaced by environmental considerations in the absence of any compelling incentives or penalties. There are difficulties in developing and operating a suitable scheme, particularly in view of the large data demands involved, reluctance in using low carbon dioxide materials and limited environmental awareness.