bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PGE2 maintains the tone of the guinea pig trachea through a balance between activation of contractile EP1 receptors and relaxant EP2 receptors
Authors: Säfholm J , Dahlén S‐E , Delin I , Maxey K , Stark K , Cardell L‐O , Adner M
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose

The guinea pig trachea (GPT) is commonly used in airway pharmacology. The aim of this study was to define the expression and function of EP receptors for PGE2 in GPT as there has been ambiguity concerning their role.

Experimental Approach

Expression of mRNA for EP receptors and key enzymes in the PGE2 pathway were assessed by real‐time PCR using species‐specific primers. Functional studies of GPT were performed in tissue organ baths.

Key Results

Expression of mRNA for the four EP receptors was found in airway smooth muscle. PGE2 displayed a bell‐shaped concentration–response curve, where the initial contraction was inhibited by the EP1 receptor antagonist ONO‐8130 and the subsequent relaxation by the EP2 receptor antagonist PF‐04418948. Neither EP3 (ONO‐AE5‐599) nor EP4 (ONO‐AE3‐208) selective receptor antagonists affected the response to PGE2. Expression of COX‐2 was greater than COX‐1 in GPT, and the spontaneous tone was most effectively abolished by selective COX‐2 inhibitors. Furthermore, ONO‐8130 and a specific PGE2 antibody eliminated the spontaneous tone, whereas the EP2 antagonist PF‐04418948 increased it. Antagonists of other prostanoid receptors had no effect on basal tension. The relaxant EP2 response to PGE2 was maintained after long‐term culture, whereas the contractile EP1 response showed homologous desensitization to PGE2, which was prevented by COX‐inhibitors.

Conclusions and Implications

Endogenous PGE2, synthesized predominantly by COX‐2, maintains the spontaneous tone of GPT by a balance between contractile EP1 receptors and relaxant EP2 receptors. The model may be used to study interactions between EP receptors.
Pro‐fibrotic processes in human lung fibroblasts are driven by an autocrine/paracrine endothelinergic system
Authors: Ahmedat AS , Warnken M , Seemann WK , Mohr K , Kostenis E , Juergens UR , Racké K
Published: August 2012

Background and Purpose

Since endothelin (ET) may act as pro‐fibrotic mediator, expression and release of ET isoforms, their receptors and potential pro‐fibrotic ET effects were studied in human lung fibroblasts.

Experimental Approach

MRC‐5 and primary human lung fibroblasts (phLFb) were cultured. Expression of prepro‐ET isoforms was determined by qPCR and release of ET‐1 by elisa. ET receptor function was analysed by real‐time measurement of dynamic mass redistribution (DMR). Incorporation of [3H]‐thymidine was determined as measure of proliferation and that of [3H]‐proline for collagen synthesis. Phospho‐p42/44 MAP kinase was determined by Western blot.

Key Results

ET‐1 is the predominant ET in human lung fibroblasts (hLF), and TGF‐β caused a further, selective and sustained up‐regulation of ET‐1 resulting in increased extracellular ET‐1 accumulation. hLFb express mRNA encoding ET‐A and ET‐B receptors. Expression of both receptors was confirmed at protein level. ET‐1 induced marked DMR signals, an effect that involved ET‐A and ET‐B receptors. Stimulatory effects of ET‐1 on hLFb proliferation and collagen synthesis were mediated exclusively via ET‐A receptors. ET‐1, again via ET‐A receptors, induced rapid activation of ERK MAPK, shown to be a crucial cellular signal in ET‐1‐induced collagen synthesis. ET‐1‐induced activation of ERK and collagen synthesis was, in contrast to corresponding effect of a muscarinic agonist, largely insensitive to pertussis toxin.

Conclusions and Implications

hLFb are endowed with all elements necessary to build a functional autocrine/paracrine endothelinergic system, which appears to drive pro‐fibrotic airway and lung remodelling processes, effects for which only ET‐A, but not ET‐B receptors appear to be of significance.
The apelin receptor inhibits the angiotensin II type 1 receptor via allosteric trans‐inhibition
Authors: Siddiquee K , Hampton J , McAnally D , May LT , Smith LH
Published: August 2012

This article is commented on by Goupil et al., pp. 1101‐1103 of this issue.
Oral and maxillofacial osteosarcoma in dogs: a review
Authors: Farcas N. , Arzi B. , Verstraete F. J. M.
Published: August 2012

Osteosarcoma in dogs is a heterogeneous disease entity with regard to its histologic, clinical and biologic behaviour. Differences in behaviour are associated with tumour location. Oral and maxillofacial osteosarcomas are typically reported as a component of the broader classifications of axial osteosarcoma or osteosarcoma of flat bones to differentiate them from appendicular osteosarcoma. Similar to human oral and maxillofacial osteosarcoma, in dogs, these also appear to have less aggressive behaviour than appendicular osteosarcoma. Ideally, local control is achieved with wide surgical resection that results in tumour‐free margins. Failure of local control is the most common contributor to poor prognosis. Chemotherapy and radiation treatment are reported to have variable outcomes. The aim of this article is to review the literature on oral and maxillofacial osteosarcoma in dogs in comparison to appendicular and axial osteosarcoma. Similarities and differences between oral and maxillofacial osteosarcoma in humans are addressed.
Critical Care nurses' understanding of the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework. An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Stewart Laura FM , Rae Agnes M
Published: August 2012

Aims: This small‐scale research study aimed to explore Critical Care nurses' understanding of the National Health Service (NHS) Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF) in relationship to its challenges and their nursing role.

Background: The NHS KSF is central to the professional development of nurses in Critical Care and supports the effective delivery of health care in the UK. KSF was implemented in 2004 yet engagement seems lacking with challenges often identified.

Design: This qualitative study adopted an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis framework.

Method: Data were collected from five Critical Care nurses using semi‐structured interviews that were transcribed for analysis.

Results: Two super‐ordinate themes of ‘engagement’ and ‘theory‐practice gap’ were identified. Six subthemes of ‘fluency’, ‘transparency’, ‘self‐assessment', ‘achieving for whom’, ‘reflection’ and ‘the nursing role’ further explained the super‐ordinate themes. Critical Care nurses demonstrated layers of understanding about KSF. Challenges identified were primarily concerned with complex language, an unclear process and the use of reflective and self‐assessment skills.

Conclusions: Two theory‐practice gaps were found. Critical Care nurses understood the principles of KSF but they either did not apply or did not realize they applied these principles. They struggled to relate KSF to Critical Care practice and felt it did not capture the ‘essence’ of their nursing role in Critical Care.

Relevance to clinical practice: Recommendations were made for embedding KSF into Critical Care practice, using education and taking a flexible approach to KSF to support the development and care delivery of Critical Care nurses.
Femoroplasty: A New Option for Femur Metastasis
Authors: Plancarte‐Sanchez Ricardo , Guajardo‐Rosas Jorge , Cerezo‐Camacho Oscar , Chejne‐Gomez Faride , Gomez‐Garcia Francisco , Meneses‐Garcia Abelardo , Armas‐Plancarte Cristopher , Saldaña‐Ramirez Gustavo , Medina‐Santillan Roberto
Published: August 2012

Abstract:  Bone metastases are very frequent in patients with cancer and usually are located in the patient’s long bones and spine. Various approaches to pain relief and stability to the affected bone have been used. The aim of the study is to report our experience with a new minimally invasive percutaneous technique in patients with bone metastases located in the head, neck, and proximal femur. The technique is performed under fluoroscopic guidance through the application of polymethylmethacrylate bone cement. Our descriptive, retrospective, longitudinal case series included 15 patients who underwent femoroplasty. All patients reported pain reduction and improved mobility, with no complications observed. The femoroplasty procedure caused pain relief by stabilizing the bone through the consolidation of the microfractures because of bone metastases.
Preoperative hemostasis and its association with bleeding and blood component transfusion requirements in cardiopulmonary bypass surgery
Authors: Emeklibas Nahit , Kammerer Inna , Bach Juergen , Sack Falk‐Udo , Hellstern Peter
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Variables of hemostasis before surgery might indicate an elevated risk of bleeding. We determined hemostasis tests and standardized bleeding history and their association with bleeding and transfusion requirements in cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In a prospective trial, variables from 104 patients were associated with postsurgical bleeding and with red blood cells (RBCs) and platelet concentrate (PC) transfusions. Variables included standardized bleeding history, prothrombin time (PT), fibrinogen, fibrin monomers, Factor VIII, von Willebrand factor (VWF), multiple electrode aggregation (MEA), and the day of aspirin or thienopyridine withdrawal before operation.

RESULTS: Multiple linear regression revealed bleeding history score, ADP‐induced MEA, CPB time, and hemoglobin (Hb) independently associated with postoperative bleeding and bleeding history, arachidonic acid (AA)‐induced MEA, CPB time, and PT associated with RBC transfusions. The logistic regression model for the outcome of bleeding within 24 hours after operation indicated ADP‐induced MEA, the day of aspirin withdrawal before operation, and CPB time as predictors. AA‐induced MEA, CPB time, Hb, and PT were predictors of RBCs transfusion. ADP‐induced MEA, the day of aspirin withdrawal, PT, and VWF were associated with PC transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS: A standardized bleeding history may help to identify patients undergoing CPB surgery whose risk of bleeding is elevated. ADP‐induced MEA appears to predict postoperative bleeding and PC transfusion requirements, while AA‐induced MEA and preoperative Hb indicate the need for RBCs. The time of aspirin withdrawal before surgery influences perioperative blood loss and PC transfusion.
SALL4 is a key transcription regulator in normal human hematopoiesis
Authors: Gao Chong , Kong Nikki R. , Li Ailing , Tatetu Hiro , Ueno Shikiko , Yang Youyang , He Jie , Yang Jianchang , Ma Yupo , Kao Grace S. , Tenen Daniel G. , Chai Li
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Stem cell factor SALL4 is a zinc finger transcription factor. It plays vital roles in the maintenance of embryonic stem cell properties, functions as an oncogene in leukemia, and has been recently proposed to use for cord blood expansion. The mechanism(s) by which SALL4 functions in normal human hematopoiesis, including identification of its target genes, still need to be explored.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by microarray hybridization (ChIP‐chip) was used for mapping SALL4 global gene targets in normal primary CD34+ cells. The results were then correlated with SALL4 functional studies in the CD34+ cells.

RESULTS: More than 1000 potential SALL4 downstream target genes have been identified, and validation of binding by ChIP‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction was performed for 5% of potential targets. These include genes that are involving in hematopoietic differentiation and self‐renewal, such as HOXA9, RUNX1, CD34, and PTEN. Down regulation of SALL4 expression using small‐hairpin RNA in these cells led to decreased in vitro myeloid colony–forming abilities and impaired in vivo engraftment. Furthermore, HOXA9 was identified to be a major SALL4 target in normal human hematopoiesis and the loss of either SALL4 or HOXA9 expression in CD34+ cells shared a similar phenotype.

CONCLUSION: Taken together, SALL4 is a key regulator in normal human hematopoiesis and the mechanism of its function is at least in part through the HOXA9. Future study will determine whether modulating the SALL4/HOXA9 pathway can be used in cellular therapy such as cord blood expansion and/or myeloid engraftment.
Early adoption, experience, and farm performance of GM corn seeds
Authors: Aldana Ursula , Barham Brad , Foltz Jeremy , Useche Pilar
Published: August 2012

The current article explores the characteristics that distinguish early from late adopters of GM corn and measures the productivity impacts of early adoption, for a sample of farmers in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The results of the adoption analysis confirm that size, education as well as specialization are positively correlated with early adoption. In addition, these results also show that farms that are mostly worked by family labor but hire some off‐farm labor are more likely to adopt GM seeds earlier in the diffusion process. The productivity analysis demonstrates the superiority of stacked varieties. At the same time, we find no evidence of a direct impact of experience on yields. Given the previously documented impact of early adoption on the use of stacked varieties, we conclude that experience plays a role through the adoption of these new technologies but does not play a role in allowing the producer to use the technology more efficiently, once it has been adopted.
Impacts of tenancy arrangements on investment and efficiency: evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Ali Akhter , Abdulai Awudu , Goetz Renan
Published: August 2012

In this article, we use farm‐level data from the Punjab Province in Pakistan to analyze the impact of three tenancy contracts on investment in soil‐improving and productivity‐enhancing measures and farm productivity. A multivariate tobit model that accounts for potential substitutability and complementarity of investment options, as well as endogeneity of tenure arrangements was employed in the empirical analysis. Our empirical results indicate that land tenure arrangements influence farmers’ decisions to invest in soil‐improving and productivity‐enhancing measures. In particular, owner‐cultivators with secured tenancy arrangements were found to be more likely to invest in soil‐improving and productivity‐enhancing measures, compared to those on leased contracts. We also find that output per hectare was highest on land cultivated by owners and lowest on land under sharecropping tenancy, lending support to the Marshallian inefficiency hypothesis.
Machinery‐sharing in the presence of strategic uncertainty: evidence from Sweden
Authors: Lagerkvist Carl Johan , Hansson Helena
Published: August 2012

Interpersonal choices related to machinery‐sharing collaborations between farmers in the presence of strategic uncertainty were examined by combining personality measures, game theory, and socioeconomic questionnaire results to empirically analyze the formation of voluntary cooperation in collaborations relating to farm machinery. It was found that aversion to probabilistic uncertainty referring to the Ellsberg paradox had no explanatory power. Intolerance of ambiguity as a personal trait proved to be a significant variable explaining collaborative strategies, whereas fear of negative evaluation by others did not significantly affect the choices made. In the repeated game context, the time taken to converge from limited to full collaboration was longer than that needed to dissolve the full collaboration owing to deviating behavior of the other party. These results can be used in developing richer, descriptive, fertile models that explain the formation of more viable farm business structures.
Alterations in Antibody Subclass Immune Reactivity to Trophoblast‐derived Fetal Fibronectin and α2‐Macroglobulin in Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Saunders Rhiana D. , Nakajima Steven T. , Rai Shesh N. , Pan Jianmin , Gercel‐Taylor Cicek , Taylor Douglas D.
Published: August 2012

Problem

Increasing evidence supports the involvement of complex antibody‐mediated immunologic events at the decidua–trophoblast interface. Our objective is to define the humoral immune responses of pregnant women with a history of recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) compared with gestation‐age‐matched and non‐pregnant controls in terms of trophoblast‐derived antigenic targets and IgG subclasses.

Method of study

Immunoprecipitation and Western immunoblotting were performed to characterize IgG subclass reactivity to Sw.71 trophoblast–derived fetal fibronectin and alpha‐2‐macroglobulin, using serum obtained from first‐trimester pregnant RPL subjects, gestation‐age‐matched controls, and non‐pregnant controls.

Results

Using a generalized linear model, sera from women with a history of RPL exhibited increased IgG3 immunoreactivity to trophoblast‐derived fetal fibronectin and alpha‐2‐macroglobulin compared with controls (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

IgG3 reactivity in women with RPL may play a significant role in aberrant immune‐regulatory mechanisms in early pregnancy. Further investigations into the role of autoantibodies against trophoblast‐derived proteins in implantation and pregnancy are warranted.
Perspectives of emergency department staff on the triage of mental health‐related presentations: Implications for education, policy and practice
Authors: Gerdtz Marie F , Weiland Tracey J , Jelinek George A , Mackinlay Claire , Hill Nicole
Published: August 2012

Objective

To explore ED staff perceptions of the factors that influence accuracy of triage for people with mental health problems.

Methods

This qualitative learning needs analysis used a descriptive exploratory design. Participants were Australian emergency nurses and doctors. We used a criterion‐based sampling approach. Recruitment was facilitated by the College of Emergency Nursing Australasia and the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine. A semi‐structured interview schedule was developed. Telephone interviews were conducted, audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Thematic analysis was used to identify factors perceived to affect triage outcomes and to explore strategies to optimise the accuracy of triage assessments.

Results

Thirty‐six staff participated (16 nurses and 20 doctors). Four major factors were perceived to influence accuracy. These were: environmental factors (physical structure, time pressures, activity levels, and interruptions), policy and education (guidelines, training and resources), staff factors (knowledge, experience, attitudes) and patient factors (police presence, patient behaviour, clinical condition). Differences of opinion were expressed by emergency doctors about the validity of the time to treatment objectives included in the Australasian Triage Scale for mental health presentations, and the utility of the scale to differentiate urgency for psychiatric conditions.

Conclusion

Clinical guidelines and training have been developed to support the use of the Australasian Triage Scale. Further evaluation of the application of this scale to assess mental health problems is indicated. Additional work is also required to reduce variance in urgency assignment based on staff knowledge and attitudes about the causes, assessment and early management of psychiatric disorders.
Some Reflections on the ‘Teaching Attitude’ and Its Application to Teaching About the Use of the Transference: A British View
Authors: Lemma Alessandra
Published: August 2012

abstract

In this paper the author argues that psychoanalytic education is enhanced when (a) it attends seriously to the affective, relational and social processes that frame the experience of teaching and of learning, fostering a critical engagement with both, and (b) it engages candidates in exploring what they do (technique) in the context of the articulation of their model of working (theory). The features of the ‘teaching attitude’ that are relevant to psychoanalytic education are illustrated though a ‘teaching case study’ detailing the rationale, process and content for a curriculum on the concept of transference.
Conventional DMARD therapy (methotrexate‐sulphasalazine) may decrease the requirement of biologics in routine practice of ankylosing spondylitis patients: A real‐life experience
Authors: Can Meryem , Aydın Sibel Z. , Niğdelioğlu Adil , Atagündüz Pamir , Direskeneli Haner
Published: August 2012

Aim

The effect of disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) in ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is still controversial. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy of sulphasalazine (SSZ) mono‐ or combination therapy with methotrexate (MTX) in AS patients naive to anti‐tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) agents.

Methods

Patients with AS (n = 87, male : female, 46 : 41) treated with SSZ (n = 61) or SSZ + MTX (n = 26) combination and a documented 6‐month follow‐up were evaluated retrospectively. Disease activity was assessed by the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI), C‐reactive protein and erythrocyte sedimentation rate. Requirement for anti‐TNFα therapy was assessed after 6 months.

Results

Mean (SD) age was 43.0 (11.0) versus 40.2 (11.1) and disease duration was 11.0 (8.6) versus 8.2 (5.2) years, in the SSZ and SSZ + MTX groups, respectively. Initially, 59% (34/61) of the patients in SSZ monotherapy and 68% (17/26) in the combination arm had BASDAI > 4. At the end of the study, BASDAI scores decreased similarly in both groups (mono: 1.4 [–7–6] versus combination: 0.7 [–3–6] P = 0.2). BASDAI was > 4 in 32.8% (20/61) of patients in the SSZ monotherapy and in 44% (11/26) in the combination arm. Only 4 (6.6%) patients in the SSZ group and 2 (7.7%) in the ombination arm were switched to anti‐TNFα therapies.

Discussion

A significant subset of our AS patients responded to SSZ mono or SSZ + MTX combination therapies at 6 months follow‐up. Using BASDAI, the requirement for biological therapies decreased by 21–24%. In AS patients, including those with axial involvement only, DMARD therapy may be a reasonable first alternative to anti‐TNFα therapy and may delay the switch to biologic agents.
Performance of hands and feet radiographs in differentiation of psoriatic arthritis from rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ichikawa Naomi , Taniguchi Atsuo , Kobayashi Satomi , Yamanaka Hisashi
Published: August 2012

Aim

The purpose of this study was to determine useful radiographic findings for differentiating psoriatic arthritis (PsA) from rheumatoid factor (RF)‐positive or ‐negative rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in Japanese patients.

Methods

We accrued 85 patients with PsA. Controls included 135 patients with RA (85 RF‐positive, 50 RF‐negative) matched for gender and disease duration with PsA patients. Radiographs of hands and feet were obtained, and distal interphalangeal (DIP) erosive disease, joint osteolysis, tuft osteolysis, juxta‐articular bony proliferation (JBP), periosteal new bone formation and bony ankylosis, which were identified using the definitions developed by an earlier study, were compared between the PsA and RA groups.

Results

For radiographic features of hands, the frequencies of JBP, periosteal new bone, and diffuse soft tissue swelling of the fingers were significantly higher in PsA patients than in RF‐positive RA patients. However, only the frequency of JBP significantly differed between PsA and RF‐negative RA patients. In feet, the frequencies of DIP erosive disease, tuft osteolysis, JBP, and diffuse soft tissue swelling of the toes were significantly higher in PsA patients than in RF‐positive RA patients. However, only the frequency of JBP significantly differed between PsA and RF‐negative RA patients.

Conclusion

JBP was the most important radiographic feature for discriminating PsA from both RF‐positive and ‐negative RA, confirming the study by the CASPAR group that showed that JBP is the only radiologic feature that can discriminate PsA from other inflammatory arthritides. This study showed the utility of plain radiographs for diagnosis of PsA.
The inositol monophosphatase All2917 (IMPA1) is involved in osmotic adaptation in Anabaena sp. PCC7120
Authors: Wang Fang‐Kui , Latifi Amel , Chen Wen‐Li , Zhang Cheng‐Cai
Published: August 2012

Inositol monophosphatase (IMPase; EC 3.1.3.25) acts at the last step in the inositol biosynthesis pathway by hydrolysing inositol‐1‐phosphate into inositol. In this study, an IMPase encoding gene, all2917 from Anabaena sp. PCC7120, was characterized. We found that All2917 exhibits a specific activity on inositol‐1‐phosphate, in a typical Mg2+‐dependent, Li+‐sensitive manner. The deletion of all2917 in Anabaena made the cells more sensitive to osmotic stress caused by sucrose or sorbitol, while its overexpression led to an increased resistance to such stress. Consistent with these phenotypes, the transcription of all2917 was significantly upregulated upon the sucrose‐mediated osmotic stress. Phylogenic analysis using 134 IMPase homologues from 36 cyanobacterial strains shows that members of IMPase family form three major distinct clades, suggesting that multiple copies of IMPase family proteins have been maintained in Cyanobacteria during a long history of evolution, and they may play important roles in cyanobacterial physiology.
The genome and transcriptome of a newly described psychrophilic archaeon, Methanolobus psychrophilusR15, reveal its cold adaptive characteristics
Authors: Chen Zijuan , Yu Haiying , Li Lingyan , Hu Songnian , Dong Xiuzhu
Published: August 2012

We analysed the cold‐responsive gene repertoire for a psychrophilic methanogen, Methanolobus psychrophilus R15 through genomic and RNA‐seq assayed transcriptomic comparisons for cultures at 18°C (optimal temperature) versus 4°C. The differences found by RNA‐seq analysis were verified using quantitative real time‐PCR assay. The results showed that as in the Antarctic methanogen, Methanococcoides burtonii, genes for methanogenesis, biosynthesis and protein synthesis were all downregulated by the cold in R15. However, the RNA polymerase complex was upregulated at cold, as well as a gene cluster for a putative exosome complex, suggesting that exosome‐mediated RNA decay may be cold‐accelerated. Unexpectedly, the chaperonin genes for both thermosome and GroES/EL were all upregulated at 4°C. Strain R15 possessed eight protein families for oxygen detoxification, including both anaerobe‐specific superoxide reductase (SOR) and the aerobe‐typical superoxide dismutase (SOD)‐catalase oxidant‐removing system, implying the higher oxidative tolerance. Compared with a mesophilic methanogen, R15 survived in higher paraquat, a redox‐cycling drug. Moreover, 71 one‐component systems and 50 two‐component systems for signal transduction ranked strain R15, together with M. burtonii, as being highly adaptive among archaea. Most of them exhibited cold‐enhanced expression, indicating their involvement in cold adaptation. This study has added new perspectives on the cold adaptation of methanogenic archaea.
Case of mediastinal epithelioid hemangioendothelioma associated with hypertrophic osteoarthropathy and literature review
Authors: Pundole Xerxes , Lu Huifang
Published: August 2012

Hypertrophic osteoarthropathy is commonly associated with malignancies of the lungs and stomach. A few cases associated with epithelioid hemangioendothelioma, a rare vascular soft tissue neoplasm, have been reported. Presented here is the first report of a case of hypertrophic osteoarthropathy as the initial symptom of epithelioid hemangioendothelioma of the mediastinum. A 64‐year‐old woman presented with pain around the long bones and diffuse puffiness of bilateral hands and feet. She had a history of multiple malignancies, all of which were in remission. She had clubbing of her fingernails and toenails. Her chest X‐ray was negative. A positron emission tomography (PET) scan performed showed metabolically active soft tissue that extensively infiltrated the mediastinum, with several sites of disease involving the pericardium. Mediastinal biopsy and subsequent pleural fluid cytology obtained by thoracocentesis was consistent with metastatic epithelioid hemangioendothelioma. Our case supports that the PET scan has a valuable role in localizing malignancies in such patients who present with hypertrophic osteoarthropathy and no lung or stomach involvement.
Interaction of Combat Exposure and Unit Cohesion in Predicting Suicide‐Related Ideation Among Post‐Deployment Soldiers
Authors: Mitchell Mary M. , Gallaway Michael Shayne , Millikan Amy M. , Bell Michael
Published: August 2012

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death among U.S. Army soldiers. Suicide‐related ideation, which is associated with suicide attempts and suicide, can cause considerable distress. In a sample of 1,663 recently redeployed soldiers, we used factor analysis and structural equation modeling to test the associations between combat exposure, unit cohesion, and their interaction in predicting suicide‐related ideation. We found that combat exposure was a significant risk factor for suicide‐related ideation, while unit cohesion was a significant protective factor. The significant interaction between the two factors indicated that soldiers who experienced greater combat exposure but also had higher levels of unit cohesion had relatively lower levels of suicide‐related ideation. In addition, those who had higher levels of combat exposure and lower unit cohesion were most at risk for suicide‐related ideation. Our findings indicate the importance of unit cohesion in protecting soldiers from suicide‐related ideation and suggest a higher risk group of soldiers who should be targeted for interventions.
Have Mental Health Education Programs Influenced the Mental Health Literacy of Those with Major Depression and Suicidal Ideation? A Comparison between 1998 and 2008 in South Australia
Authors: Chamberlain Peter N , Goldney Robert D. , Taylor Anne W. , Eckert Kerena A.
Published: August 2012

Mental health literacy is the knowledge and beliefs about mental disorders that aid their recognition, management, or prevention and is considered to be an important determinant of help‐seeking. This has relevance in suicide prevention, as depression, the clinical condition most frequently associated with suicidality, has been the target of community and professional education programs designed to enhance mental health literacy. In this study, whether such programs have influenced help‐seeking attitudes and behavior in those who are depressed and suicidal was considered. The results indicate that despite intensive community education programs over the last two decades, there has been little change in those who are depressed and suicidal in terms of their attitudes toward treatment seeking and, more importantly, their treatment‐seeking behavior. These results draw into question the value of current community education programs for those most vulnerable to suicidal behavior.
Germ cell‐specific disruption of the Meig1 gene causes impaired spermiogenesis in mice
Authors: Teves M. E. , Jha K. N. , Song J. , Nagarkatti‐Gude D. R. , Herr J. C. , Foster J. A. , Strauss J. F. , Zhang Z.
Published: August 2012

Meiosis expressed gene 1 (Meig1) was originally identified in a search for mammalian genes potentially involved in meiosis. Seven mouse Meig1 transcripts with the same coding region, but different 5′‐UTRs, have been identified. These transcripts have different tissue distributions, two are only present in the testis. In the testis, Meig1 is present in germ cells and Sertoli cells. A Meig1 conditional knockout model has been generated. When Meig1 was inactivated globally by crossing with Cmv‐Cre transgenic mice, the Meig1‐deficient males were sterile due to severe spermiogenic defects, and had no obvious defects in meiosis. To further study its role in individual cell types in the testis, the Meig1flox mice were crossed with Hsp2a‐Cre, Prm‐Cre, and Amh‐Cre mice, in which the Cre recombinase is driven by the heat shock protein 2 (Hsp2a) gene promoter (expressed in spermatocytes), the protamine 1 gene promoter (expressed in post‐meiotic spermatids) and the anti‐Mullerian hormone (Amh) gene promoter (expressed in Sertoli cells) respectively. Both Meig1 mRNA and protein were undetectable in testis of the Hsp2a‐Cre; Meig1flox/flox mice and all the mutant adult males tested were sterile. This phenotype mirrors that of the Cmv‐Cre; Meig1flox/flox mice. Even though the total testicular Meig1 mRNA and protein expression levels were dramatically reduced in testis of the Prm‐Cre; Meig1flox/flox males, all the mice tested were fertile, and there was no significant difference in sperm count and sperm motility compared with age‐matched Meig1flox/flox male mice. Disruption of Meig1 in the Sertoli cells did not affect the MEIG1 protein expression. Amh‐Cre; Meig1flox/flox males were fertile, and produced the same amount of spermatozoa as age‐matched Meig1flox/flox mice. The testicular histology was also normal. Our results indicate that MEIG1 regulates spermiogenesis through effects in germ cells alone, and that the Meig1 gene must be active during a discrete period in spermatogenesis after which it is dispensable.
Sperm retrieval and live birth rates in presumed Sertoli‐cell‐only syndrome in testis biopsy: a single centre experience
Authors: Gul U. , Turunc T. , Haydardedeoglu B. , Yaycioglu O. , Kuzgunbay B. , Ozkardes H.
Published: August 2012

We aimed to investigate sperm retrieval rates (SRR) by testicular sperm extraction (TESE), factors affecting SRR, and fertilization rate (FR), implantation rate (IR), clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR) in patients with presumed Sertoli‐cell‐only syndrome in testis biopsy (SCOS). We retrospectively evaluated files of 134 patients with SCOS who underwent TESE. Group I were patients in whom spermatozoa were retrieved and Group II were patients in whom no spermatozoa could be retrieved. SRR, Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), Luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone levels, and the volume of testicles were compared between groups. In addition, FR, IR, CPR and LBR were determined. Sperm retrieval was achieved in 37 (27.6%) patients (Group I), and the remaining 97 (72.4%) patients made Group II. There were no significant differences in age, infertility time, testicular volume, serum FSH, LH and testosterone levels between Groups I and II (p > 0.05). Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) was performed in 36 patients. FR, IR, and CPR were 60.86 ± 23.03, 36.53 ± 41.78 and 51.3% respectively. Cycle and patient based LBRs were 37.8 and 45.1% respectively. SRR in SCOS is lower than patients with non‐obstructive azoospermia (NOA) in general. No parameters to predict spermatozoa retrieval were determined. In patients with SCOS, ICSI achieves similar live birth rate to other patients with NOA.
Pathogens of Ips amitinus: new species and comparison with Ips typographus
Authors: Lukášová K. , Holuša J. , Turčáni M.
Published: August 2012

Ips amitinus and I. typographus are two serious pests of spruce in Europe, have similar bionomics and are likely to occur and meet on the same host trees. We therefore hypothesized that the two species support similar levels of similar pathogens. To test this hypothesis, we collected mature beetles from three trap trees at each of eight study sites and determined beetle numbers and pathogen infection levels. In total, 938 mature I. amitinus beetles and 3435 of I. typographus were dissected; five pathogens, as well as intestinal nematodes and endoparasitoids, were detected. The neogregarine Mattesia schwenkei is reported here for the first time as a new pathogen in 9.4% of I. amitinus individuals at one site. Average infection levels of most pathogens (Chytridiopsis typographi, Gregarina typographi, Mattesia schwenkei and parasitoids) were significantly higher in I. typographus than in I. amitinus. Metschnikowia typographi was confirmed only in Ips amitinus, while the microsporidium of Nosema typographi occurred only in I. typographus. Within‐season increases in G. typographi infection levels were documented in Ips amitinus.
Probing behaviour of Cacopsylla pyri on a resistant pear selection
Authors: Civolani S. , Grandi G. , Chicca M. , Pasqualini E. , Fano E. A. , Musacchi S.
Published: August 2012

European pear psylla Cacopsylla pyri L. (Hemiptera Psyllidae) is one of the worst pests of pear (Pyrus communis L.) in Europe. We investigated probing behaviour in adults and nymphs of C. pyri by full EPG on a psylla‐resistant pear selection, NY 10353. Concerning stylet probing behaviour on the plant surface, the results showed no significant differences between the resistant selection and the susceptible cultivar Bartlett, and no differences were also detected for epidermis and mesophyll resistance in the same conditions. For mesophyll/phloem, no differences were found in adults. However, in nymphs, weak resistance factors (longer stylet penetration and mesophyll salivation) were detected in the resistant selection. In phloem, EPG data indicate strong resistance factors in NY 10353, especially for nymphs and summer‐form adults (longer time before the first phloem ingestion and a lower duration of each phloem ingestion event). No prolonged (>10 min) phloem ingestion was performed by nymphs and adults in the resistant selection. The results support the hypothesis that NY 10353 resistance factors are located in the phloem sap and cause high C. pyri nymph mortality: this could be useful as a basis for further investigations of resistance mechanisms at the metabolic, chemical and genetic levels.
Surfing biological surfaces: exploiting the nucleoid for partition and transport in bacteria
Authors: Vecchiarelli Anthony G. , Mizuuchi Kiyoshi , Funnell Barbara E.
Published: August 2012

The ParA family of ATPases is responsible for transporting bacterial chromosomes, plasmids and large protein machineries. ParAs pattern the nucleoid in vivo, but how patterning functions or is exploited in transport is of considerable debate. Here we discuss the process of self‐organization into patterns on the bacterial nucleoid and explore how it relates to the molecular mechanism of ParA action. We review ParA‐mediated DNA partition as a general mechanism of how ATP‐driven protein gradients on biological surfaces can result in spatial organization on a mesoscale. We also discuss how the nucleoid acts as a formidable diffusion barrier for large bodies in the cell, and make the case that the ParA family evolved to overcome the barrier by exploiting the nucleoid as a matrix for movement.
Inhibitory mechanism of the Qβ lysis protein A2
Authors: Reed C. A. , Langlais C. , Kuznetsov V. , Young R.
Published: August 2012

The lysis protein A2, present as a single copy on the surface of Qβ virion particles, was previously shown to inhibit the activity of MurA, an enzyme that catalyses the first committed step of murein biosynthesis. Here we report experiments with a two‐hybrid study that indicates A2 and MurA interact directly. Moreover, experiments with a soluble MBP–A2 fusion indicate that the interaction between MurA and A2 is dependent on a substrate‐induced conformational change featured in the UDP‐NAG‐liganded state of MurA but not the tetrahedral intermediate state. Moreover, based on the location of L138Q, the original dominant A2‐resistant mutant that identified MurA as the target, a directed mutagenesis strategy has identified a continuous surface required for A2 binding. This surface spans the catalytic loop/cleft and encompasses both the catalytic and C‐terminal domains. These data support a model in which A2 preferentially binds MurA liganded with UDP‐NAG, thereby preventing catalysis by occluding PEP from accessing the active site.
Assimilate transport in phloem sets conditions for leaf gas exchange
Authors: NIKINMAA EERO , HÖLTTÄ TEEMU , HARI PERTTI , KOLARI PASI , MÄKELÄ ANNIKKI , SEVANTO SANNA , VESALA TIMO
Published: August 2012

Carbon uptake and transpiration in plant leaves occurs through stomata that open and close. Stomatal action is usually considered a response to environmental driving factors. Here we show that leaf gas exchange is more strongly related to whole tree level transport of assimilates than previously thought, and that transport of assimilates is a restriction of stomatal opening comparable with hydraulic limitation. Assimilate transport in the phloem requires that osmotic pressure at phloem loading sites in leaves exceeds the drop in hydrostatic pressure that is due to transpiration. Assimilate transport thus competes with transpiration for water. Excess sugar loading, however, may block the assimilate transport because of viscosity build‐up in phloem sap. Therefore, for given conditions, there is a stomatal opening that maximizes phloem transport if we assume that sugar loading is proportional to photosynthetic rate. Here we show that such opening produces the observed behaviour of leaf gas exchange. Our approach connects stomatal regulation directly with sink activity, plant structure and soil water availability as they all influence assimilate transport. It produces similar behaviour as the optimal stomatal control approach, but does not require determination of marginal cost of water parameter.
Contribution of house and garden work to the association between physical activity and well-being in young, mid-aged and older women
Authors: Peeters Geeske , van Gellecum Yolanda R , van Uffelen Jannique G Z , Burton Nicola W , Brown Wendy J
Published: August 2012

Objective

Although physical activity occurs in leisure, transport, occupational and domestic domains of life, the contribution of house and garden work (HGW) to the association between total physical activity and well-being is not clear. The aim was to describe the contribution of HGW to total physical activity (TPA) in association with well-being in younger, mid-aged and older women.

Design

Younger (25–30 years), mid-aged (50–55 years) and older (76–81 years) participants in the Australian Longitudinal Study on Women's Health completed a mailed survey with questions about leisure, transport and house and garden activities. Well-being was assessed using the physical and mental components scores of the SF-36. Cross-sectional associations between the physical activity variables and well-being were modelled using General Additive Modelling.

Results

Correlations between HGW and leisure/transport activity (LTA) were low (r<0.3, p<0.001). Positive curvilinear associations were found between LTA and physical and mental well-being in all three cohorts, and between HGW and physical and mental well-being in mid-aged and older women. In the younger women, an inverse relationship was found between HGW and well-being. When HGW and LTA were summed (TPA), the associations between TPA and well-being were attenuated compared with those for LTA alone and well-being.

Conclusions

In mid-aged and older women, relationships between HGW and well-being were similar to, but weaker than seen for LTA and well-being. In young women, well-being declined with increasing HGW. Summing HGW to LTA led to attenuated relationships, suggesting that domains of physical activity should not be summed when studying relationships with well-being.
Biomechanical analysis of three tennis serve types using a markerless system
Authors: Abrams Geoffrey D , Harris Alex HS , Andriacchi Thomas P , Safran Marc R
Published: August 2012

Purpose

The tennis serve is commonly associated with musculoskeletal injury. Advanced players are able to hit multiple serve types with different types of spin. No investigation has characterised the kinematics of all three serve types for the upper extremity and back.

Methods

Seven NCAA Division I male tennis players performed three successful flat, kick and slice serves. Serves were recorded using an eight camera markerless motion capture system. Laser scanning was utilised to accurately collect body dimensions and data were computed using inverse kinematic methods.

Results

There was no significant difference in maximum back extension angle for the flat, kick or slice serves. The kick serve had a higher force magnitude at the back than the flat and slice as well as larger posteriorly directed shoulder forces. The flat serve had significantly greater maximum shoulder internal rotation velocity versus the slice serve. Force and torque magnitudes at the elbow and wrist were not significantly different between the serves.

Conclusions

The kick serve places higher physical demands on the back and shoulder while the slice serve demonstrated lower overall kinetic forces. This information may have injury prevention and rehabilitation implications.
Impact of accelerometer wear time on physical activity data: a NHANES semisimulation data approach
Authors: Herrmann Stephen D , Barreira Tiago V , Kang Minsoo , Ainsworth Barbara E
Published: August 2012

Background

Current research practice employs wide-ranging accelerometer wear time criteria to identify a valid day of physical activity (PA) measurement.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of varying amounts of daily accelerometer wear time on PA data.

Methods

A total of 1000 days of accelerometer data from 1000 participants (age=38.7±14.3 years; body mass index=28.2±6.7 kg/m2) were selected from the 2005–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Study data set. A reference data set was created using 200 random days with 14 h/day of wear time. Four additional samples of 200 days were randomly selected with a wear time of 10, 11, 12 and 13 h/day1. These data sets were used in day-to-day comparison to create four semisimulation data sets (10, 11, 12, 13 h/day) from the reference data set. Differences in step count and time spent in inactivity (<100 cts/min), light (100–1951 cts/min), moderate (1952–5724 cts/min) and vigorous (≥5725 cts/min) intensity PA were assessed using repeated-measures analysis of variance and absolute percent error (APE).

Results

There were significant differences for moderate intensity PA between the reference data set and semisimulation data sets of 10 and 11 h/day. Differences were observed in 10–13 h/day1for inactivity and light intensity PA, and 10–12 h/day for steps (all p values <0.05). APE increased with shorter wear time (13 h/day=3.9–14.1%; 12 h/day=9.9–15.2%, 11 h/day=17.1–35.5%; 10 h/day=24.6–40.3%).

Discussion

These data suggest that using accelerometer wear time criteria of 12 h/day or less may underestimate step count and time spent in various PA levels.
Registration in a quality register: a method to improve end-of-life care—a cross-sectional study
Authors: Martinsson Lisa , Fürst Carl Johan , Lundström Staffan , Nathanaelsson Lena , Axelsson Bertil
Published: August 2012

Objectives

Structured methods to assess and support improvement in the quality of end-of-life care are lacking and need to be developed. This need is particularly high outside the specialised palliative care. This study examines whether participation in a national quality register increased the quality of end-of-life care.

Design

This study is a cross-sectional longitudinal register study.

Setting

The Swedish Register of Palliative Care (SRPC) collects data about end-of-life care for deaths in all types of healthcare units all over Sweden. Data from all 503 healthcare units that had reported patients continuously to the register during a 3-year period were analysed.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Data on provided care during the last weeks of life were compared year-by-year with logistic regression.

Participants

The study included a total 30 283 patients. The gender distribution was 54% women and 46% men. A total of 60% of patients in the study had a cancer diagnosis.

Results

Provided end-of-life care improved in a number of ways. The prevalence of six examined symptoms decreased. The prescription of ‘as needed’ medications for pain, nausea, anxiety and death rattle increased. A higher proportion of patients died in their place of preference. The patient's next of kin was more often offered a follow-up appointment after the patient's death. No changes were seen with respect to providing information to the patient or next of kin.

Conclusions

Participation in a national quality register covariates with quality improvements in end-of-life care over time.