bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An approach for preparing an absorbable porous film of silk fibroin–rice starch modified with trisodium trimetaphosphate
Authors: Racksanti Anucha , Janhom Sorapong , Punyanitya Sittiporn , Watanesk Ruangsri , Watanesk Surasak
Published: October 2014

The absorbable porous material, especially gelatin porous film, is widely used for surgical use to stop bleeding, but its price is quite high. Thus, a new material at lower price with desirable properties is required. This article presents an approach to prepare a porous film of silk fibroin–rice starch (SF–RS) modified with trisodium trimetaphosphate (STMP). The preparation was performed using freeze‐drying method aiming to increase the porosity and improve some other properties of the modified porous film. The solutions of SF and RS (5 : 95 weight ratio) and STMP were mixed and adjusted to pH 12 before being neutralized to pH 7 and freeze‐dried for 48 h. Result from the SEM images showed that the average pore size of the SF–RS film increased from 17 to 126 μm after STMP was added up to 5.0% w/w. Similar to the SF–RS–STMP hydrogel, the linkages within the modified SF–RS porous film also occurred mainly between the OH groups of RS and the triphosphate group of STMP. Moreover, cross‐linking density of the porous film increased with the increasing content of STMP, evidenced from the increase of relative methylene blue adsorption. The addition of STMP also affected the physical properties of the modified porous film such as degree of swelling, oxygen permeability, but not the water solubility. Whereas, the residual ash of the modified porous films was lower than 2.0% and the degradation of the film ceased after soaking in 0.01M PBS solution for about 2 weeks. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41517.
Water‐blown polyurethane/polyisocyanurate foams made from recycled polyethylene terephthalate and liquefied wood‐based polyester polyol
Authors: Čuk Nataša , Fabjan Ema , Grželj Petra , Kunaver Matjaž
Published: October 2014

Depolymerized polyethylene terephthalate and liquefied wood polyesters can be used as a polyol for the production of polyurethane/polyisocyanurate foams. In this research, liquefied wood was synthesized by using a combination of diethylene glycol and glycerol and due to the possibility of using glycerol that is a by‐product in biodiesel production, our goal was to use as much glycerol in the liquefaction reagent as possible. We determined the properties of the polyols, properties of produced foams, and explained their correlation. Greater amount of glycerol in the liquefaction reagent resulted in higher OH number, molecular weight, functionality, and viscosity of the polyol, as well as in longer cream time and tack free time in foam preparation. Glass transition temperature, density, and water absorption of the foam increased with increasing amount of glycerol in liquefied wood. Compressive stress increased up to 30% of the glycerol in the reagent and then reduced, while thermal conductivity was not affected. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2015, 132, 41522.
The Rabbit Brachial Plexus as a Model for Nerve Repair Surgery—Histomorphometric Analysis
Authors: Reichert Paweł , Kiełbowicz Zdzisław , DziĘgiel Piotr , Puła Bartosz , Kuryszko Jan , Gosk Jerzy , Bocheńska Aneta
Published: October 2014

One of the most devastating injuries to the upper limb is trauma caused by the avulsion. The anatomical structure of the rabbit's brachial plexus is similar to the human brachial plexus. The aim of our study was to analyze the microanatomy and provide a detailed investigation of the rabbit's brachial plexus. The purpose of our research project was to evaluate the possibility of utilizing rabbit's plexus as a research model in studying brachial plexus injury. Studies included histomorphometric analysis of sampled ventral branches of spinal nerves C5, C6, C7, C8, and Th1, the cranial trunk, the medial part of the caudal trunk, the lateral part of the caudal trunk and peripheral nerve. Horizontal and vertical analysis was done considering following features: the axon diameter, fiber diameter and myelin sheath. The number of axons, nerve area, myelin fiber density and minimal diameter of myelin fiber, minimal axon diameter and myelin area was marked for each element. The changes between ventral branches of spinal nerves C5–Th1, trunks and peripheral nerve in which the myelin sheath, axon diameter and fiber diameter was assessed were statistically significant. It was found that the g‐ratio has close value in the brachial plexus as in the peripheral nerve. The peak of these parameters was found in nerve trunks, and then decreased coherently with the nerves travelling peripherally. Anat Rec, 298:444–454, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Enhanced NLRP3, Caspase‐1, and IL‐ 1β Levels in Degenerate Human Intervertebral Disc and Their Association with the Grades of Disc Degeneration
Authors: Chen Zhong‐Hua , Jin Shen‐Hui , Wang Min‐Yan , Jin Xiao‐Liang , Lv Chen , Deng Ying‐Feng , Wang Jun‐Lu
Published: October 2014

The NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome plays an important role in a variety of diseases. However, the role of NLRP3 in the human intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration remains unknown. In the present study, we assessed the expression levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its downstream targets caspase‐1 and IL‐1β in 45 degenerate and seven nondegenerate IVD samples. The correlation between the degeneration scores and expression levels of NLRP3, caspase‐1, and IL‐1β were also analyzed. The mRNA expression levels of the three molecules (NLRP3, caspase‐1, and IL‐1β) were higher in the degenerate IVDs group than the controls (nondegenerate IVDs group). Immunohistochemistry showed that the expression levels of all three molecules were markedly increased in the nucleus pulposus of degenerate IVDs compared with nondegenerate IVDs. There was a positive correlation between the degeneration scores and the expression levels of the NLRP3 inflammasome as well as its downstream targets caspase‐1 and IL‐1β. The findings suggest that excessive activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome results in overproduction of downstream IL‐1β, which participates in the pathogenesis of human IVD degeneration. Therefore, the NLRP3 inflammasome might serve as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of IVD degeneration. Anat Rec, 298:720–726, 2015. © 2014 The Authors The Anatomical Record: Advances in Integrative Anatomy and Evolutionary Biology Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mono‐anionic phosphopeptides produced by unexpected histidine alkylation exhibit high plk1 polo‐box domain‐binding affinities and enhanced antiproliferative effects in hela cells
Authors: Qian Wen‐Jian , Park Jung‐Eun , Lim Dan , Lai Christopher C. , Kelley James A. , Park Suk‐Youl , Lee Ki Won , Yaffe Michael B. , Lee Kyung S. , Burke Terrence R.
Published: October 2014

Binding of polo‐like kinase 1 (Plk1) polo‐box domains (PBDs) to phosphothreonine (pThr)/phosphoserine (pSer)‐containing sequences is critical for the proper function of Plk1. Although high‐affinity synthetic pThr‐containing peptides provide starting points for developing PBD‐directed inhibitors, to date the efficacy of such peptides in whole cell assays has been poor. This potentially reflects limited cell membrane permeability arising, in part, from the di‐anionic nature of the phosphoryl group or its mimetics. In our current article we report the unanticipated on‐resin N(τ)‐alkylation of histidine residues already bearing a N(π)‐ alkyl group. This resulted in cationic imidazolium‐containing pThr peptides, several of which exhibit single‐digit nanomolar PBD‐binding affinities in extracellular assays and improved antimitotic efficacies in intact cells. We enhanced the cellular efficacies of these peptides further by applying bio‐reversible pivaloyloxymethyl (POM) phosphoryl protection. New structural insights presented in our current study, including the potential utility of intramolecular charge masking, may be useful for the further development of PBD‐binding peptides and peptide mimetics. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 102: 444–455, 2014.
Psd1 binding affinity toward fungal membrane components as assessed by SPR: The role of glucosylceramide in fungal recognition and entry
Authors: Neves de Medeiros Luciano , Domitrovic Tatiana , Cavalcante de Andrade Paula , Faria Jane , Barreto Bergter Eliana , Weissmüller Gilberto , Kurtenbach Eleonora
Published: October 2014

Psd1 is a plant defensin that has antifungal activity against several pathogenic and nonpathogenic fungi. Previous analysis of Psd1 chemical shift perturbations by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy demonstrated that this defensin interacts with phospholipids and the sphingolipid glucosylceramide isolated from Fusarium solani (GlcCerFusarium solani). In this study, these interactions were evaluated by real‐time surface plasmon resonance (SPR) analysis. The data obtained demonstrated that Psd1 could bind more strongly to small unilamellar vesicles (SUV)‐containing GlcCerFusarium solani than to SUV that was composed of phosphatidylcholine (PC) alone or was enriched with GlcCer that had been isolated from soybeans. An increase in the SPR response after cholesterol or ergosterol incorporation in PC‐SUV was detected; however, SUV composed of PC:Erg (7:3; molar:molar) became unstable in the presence of Psd1, suggesting membrane destabilization. We also observed a lack of Psd1 internalization in Candida albicans strains that were deficient in the glucosyl ceramide synthase gene. Together, these data indicate that GlcCer is essential for Psd1 anchoring in the fungal plasma membrane as well as internalization. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Pept Sci) 102: 456–464, 2014.
Moniliform deformation of retinal ganglion cells by formaldehyde‐based fixatives
Authors: Stradleigh Tyler W. , Greenberg Kenneth P. , Partida Gloria J. , Pham Aaron , Ishida Andrew T.
Published: October 2014

Protocols for characterizing cellular phenotypes commonly use chemical fixatives to preserve anatomical features, mechanically stabilize tissue, and stop physiological responses. Formaldehyde, diluted in either phosphate‐buffered saline or phosphate buffer, has been widely used in studies of neurons, especially in conjunction with dyes and antibodies. However, previous studies have found that these fixatives induce the formation of bead‐like varicosities in the dendrites and axons of brain and spinal cord neurons. We report here that these formaldehyde formulations can induce bead formation in the dendrites and axons of adult rat and rabbit retinal ganglion cells, and that retinal ganglion cells differ from hippocampal, cortical, cerebellar, and spinal cord neurons in that bead formation is not blocked by glutamate receptor antagonists, a voltage‐gated Na+ channel toxin, extracellular Ca2+ ion exclusion, or temperature shifts. Moreover, we describe a modification of formaldehyde‐based fixatives that prevents bead formation in retinal ganglion cells visualized by green fluorescent protein expression and by immunohistochemistry. J. Comp. Neurol. 523:545–564, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
RARβ2 expression is induced by the down‐regulation of microRNA 133a during caudal spinal cord regeneration in the adult newt
Authors: Lepp A. C. , Carlone R. L.
Published: October 2014

Background: Adult urodele amphibians represent unique model organisms to study spinal cord regeneration. Trauma to the spinal cord induces an ependymal response, activating multipotent neural stem cells that contribute to the redifferentiation of both glia and neurons in the regenerate. The molecular events underlying this ependymal response are not completely understood, but likely involve coordinated global changes in gene expression. MicroRNAs and retinoid signaling are postulated to orchestrate these patterns of gene expression in response to trauma. Our objectives were to determine the roles played by some miRNAs as potential regulators of retinoid signaling in this process. Results: We found that the expression levels of miRNAs 133a, 203, and 124a are dysregulated during the first 21 days post amputation (dpa). Interestingly, these miRNAs are expressed primarily within the ependymoglia. We have shown in vitro that a miR‐133a mimic targets the 3' UTR of the newt RARβ2 transcript. Importantly, upregulation of this mimic in vivo led to a significant decline in RARβ2 protein at 14 dpa and inhibited regeneration. Conclusions: These data are the first to link miRNAs and retinoid signaling during spinal cord regeneration and provide support for miR‐133a as an upstream regulator of RARβ2 expression in this process. Developmental Dynamics 243:1581–1590, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Generation of a Tlx1CreER‐Venus knock‐in mouse strain for the study of spleen development
Authors: Nakahara Ryo , Kawai Yasuhiro , Oda Akihisa , Nishimura Miyuki , Murakami Akikazu , Azuma Takachika , Kaifu Tomonori , Goitsuka Ryo
Published: October 2014

The spleen is a lymphoid organ that serves as a unique niche for immune reactions, extramedullary hematopoiesis, and the removal of aged erythrocytes from the circulation. While much is known about the immunological functions of the spleen, the mechanisms governing the development and organization of its stromal microenvironment remain poorly understood. Here we report the generation and analysis of a Tlx1CreER‐Venus knock‐in mouse strain engineered to simultaneously express tamoxifen‐inducible CreERT2 and Venus fluorescent protein under the control of regulatory elements of the Tlx1 gene, which encodes a transcription factor essential for spleen development. We demonstrated that Venus as well as CreER expression recapitulates endogenous Tlx1 transcription within the spleen microenvironment. When Tlx1CreER‐Venus mice were crossed with the Cre‐inducible reporter strain, Tlx1‐expressing cells as well as their descendants were specifically labeled following tamoxifen administration. We also showed by cell lineage tracing that asplenia caused by Tlx1 deficiency is attributable to altered contribution of mesenchymal cells in the spleen anlage to the pancreatic mesenchyme. Thus, Tlx1CreER‐Venus mice represent a new tool for lineage tracing and conditional gene manipulation of spleen mesenchymal cells, essential approaches for understanding the molecular mechanisms of spleen development. genesis 52:916–923, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effectiveness of a two‐stage strategy with HPV testing followed by visual inspection with acetic acid for cervical cancer screening in a low‐income setting
Authors: Tebeu Pierre‐Marie , Fokom‐Domgue Joël , Crofts Victoria , Flahaut Emmanuel , Catarino Rosa , Untiet Sarah , Vassilakos Pierre , Petignat Patrick
Published: October 2014

The World Health Organization recently advocated a two‐stage strategy with human papillomavirus (HPV) testing followed by visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid (VIA) as a suitable option for cervical cancer screening. However, its accuracy has never been directly assessed in the context of primary screening. To evaluate effectiveness of HPV testing on self‐obtained specimens (self‐HPV) followed by VIA (sequential testing) in a low‐income setting, we recruited 540 women aged between 30 and 65 years in two Cameroonian periurban areas. Eligible women were counseled about cervical cancer and how to perform self‐sampling. HPV positive and a random sample of HPV‐negative women were called back for VIA and biopsy. Disease was defined by interpretation of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 2 or worse (CIN2+). Performances of VIA, self‐HPV and sequential testing were determined after adjustment for verification bias. HPV prevalence was 27.0%. VIA positivity was 12.9% and disease prevalence was 5%. Sensitivity and specificity of VIA for CIN2+ were 36.4% [95% confidence interval (CI): 15.2–64.6%] and 90.4% (95% CI: 85.4–93.7%), respectively. Sensitivity of self‐HPV [100.0% (95% CI: 79.6–100.0%)] was 66% higher than that of sequential testing [33.3% (95% CI: 15.2–58.3%)]. Meanwhile, specificity of self‐HPV [74.5% (95% CI: 70.6–78.1%)] was 22% lower than that of sequential testing [96.7% (95% CI: 94.8–97.9%)]. A two‐stage screening strategy with self‐HPV followed by VIA improves specificity of cervical cancer screening, but at the cost of an important loss of sensitivity. Ways to improve VIA performance or other tools are needed to increase positive predictive value of HPV testing.
Thyroid cancer mortality and incidence: A global overview
Authors: La Vecchia Carlo , Malvezzi Matteo , Bosetti Cristina , Garavello Werner , Bertuccio Paola , Levi Fabio , Negri Eva
Published: October 2014

In most areas of the world, thyroid cancer incidence has been appreciably increasing over the last few decades, whereas mortality has steadily declined. We updated global trends in thyroid cancer mortality and incidence using official mortality data from the World Health Organization (1970–2012) and incidence data from the Cancer Incidence in Five Continents (1960–2007). Male mortality declined in all the major countries considered, with annual percent changes around −2/−3% over the last decades. Only in the United States mortality declined up to the mid 1980s and increased thereafter. Similarly, in women mortality declined in most countries considered, with APCs around −2/−5% over the last decades, with the exception of the UK, the United States and Australia, where mortality has been declining up to the late 1980s/late 1990s to level off (or increase) thereafter. In 2008–2012, most countries had mortality rates (age‐standardized, world population) between 0.20 and 0.40/100,000 men and 0.20 and 0.60/100,000 women, the highest rates being in Latvia, Hungary, the Republic of Moldova and Israel (over 0.40/100,000) for men and in Ecuador, Colombia and Israel (over 0.60/100,000) for women. In most countries, a steady increase in the incidence of thyroid cancer (mainly papillary carcinomas) was observed in both sexes. The declines in thyroid cancer mortality reflect both variations in risk factor exposure and changes in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease, while the increases in the incidence are likely due to the increase in the detection of this neoplasm over the last few decades.
Visual and Digital Texts
Authors: Botzakis Stergios
Published: October 2014

This column provides reviews of adolescent and adult literature and provides a valuable resource for literature selection in‐ and outside the classroom.
Seeking Asylum
Authors: Dunkerly‐Bean Judith , Bean Thomas , Alnajjar Khaled
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to explore middle school (grade 6‐8) students' understanding and interpretation of human rights issues with local and global implications as they engaged in the process of creating a film after reading print and multimedia texts and participating in human rights education activities. As the students explored issues related to local/global human rights from a cosmopolitan critical literacy perspective, their understanding of the interrelatedness of these issues became more complex prompting advocacy efforts.
Collaborative Design
Authors: Broderick Debora
Published: October 2014

This practitioner research study investigates the power of multimodal texts within a real‐world context and argues that a participatory culture focused on literary arts offers marginalized high school students opportunities for collaborative design and authoring. Additionally, this article invites educators to rethink the at‐risk label. This research specifically uses a multiliteracies framework to conduct a fine‐grained analysis of a high school literary arts journal. Findings suggest that mapping the multiliteracies framework onto student work uncovers complex meaning‐making, but does not necessarily address the collaborative nature of this particular multimodal project. This research introduces collaborative design as a theoretical hybrid approach that captures the complexities of both the creation of multimodal texts and the rich communities from which they flourish. This research therefore expands the multiliteracies framework, reconsiders the risk label, and explores the promise of a multiliteracies pedagogy.
Novel EP4 Receptor Agonist-Bisphosphonate Conjugate Drug (C1) Promotes Bone Formation and Improves Vertebral Mechanical Properties in the Ovariectomized Rat Model of Postmenopausal Bone Loss
Authors: Liu Careesa C , Hu Sally , Chen Gang , Georgiou John , Arns Steve , Kumar Nag S , Young Robert N , Grynpas Marc D
Published: October 2014

Current treatments for postmenopausal osteoporosis aim to either promote bone formation or inhibit bone resorption. The C1 conjugate drug represents a new treatment approach by chemically linking the antiresorptive compound alendronate (ALN) with the anabolic agent prostanoid EP4 receptor agonist (EP4a) through a linker molecule (LK) to form a conjugate compound. This enables the bone-targeting ability of ALN to deliver EP4a to bone sites and mitigate the systemic side effects of EP4a, while also facilitating dual antiresorptive and anabolic effects. In vivo hydrolysis is required to release the EP4a and ALN components for pharmacological activity. Our study investigated the in vivo efficacy of this drug in treating established bone loss using an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of postmenopausal osteopenia. In a curative experiment, 3-month-old female Sprague-Dawley rats were OVX, allowed to lose bone for 7 weeks, then treated for 6 weeks. Treatment groups consisted of C1 conjugate at low and high doses, vehicle-treated OVX and sham, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and mixture of unconjugated ALN-LK and EP4a to assess the effect of conjugation. Results showed that weekly administration of C1 conjugate dose-dependently increased bone volume in trabecular bone, which partially or completely reversed OVX-induced bone loss in the lumbar vertebra and improved vertebral mechanical strength. The conjugate also dose-dependently stimulated endocortical woven bone formation and intracortical resorption in cortical bone, with high-dose treatment increasing the mechanical strength but compromising the material properties. Conjugation between the EP4a and ALN-LK components was crucial to the drug's anabolic efficacy. To our knowledge, the C1 conjugate represents the first time that a combined therapy using an anabolic agent and the antiresorptive compound ALN has shown significant anabolic effects which reversed established osteopenia. © 2014 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Bone‐conduction hearing and seismic sensitivity of the late permian anomodontKawingasaurus fossilis
Authors: Laaß Michael
Published: October 2014

An investigation of the internal cranial anatomy of the anomodontKawingasaurusfrom the Upper Permian Usili Formation in Tanzania by means of neutron tomography revealed an unusual inner and middle ear anatomy such as extraordinarily inflated vestibules, lateroventrally orientated stapes with large footplates, and a small angle between the planes of the anterior and lateral semicircular canals. The vestibule has a volume, which is about 25 times larger than the human vestibule, althoughKawingasaurushas only a skull length of approximately 40 mm. Vestibule inflation and enlarged stapes footplates are thought to be functionally correlated with bone‐conduction hearing; both morphologies have been observed in fossorial vertebrates using seismic signals for communication. The firmly fused triangular head with spatulate snout was probably used for digging and preadapted to seismic signal detection. The quadrate‐quadratojugal complex was able to transmit sound from the articular to the stapes by small vibrations of the quadrate process, which formed a ball and socket joint with the squamosal. Mechanical considerations suggest that the ventrolaterally orientated stapes ofKawingasauruswas mechanically better suited to transmit seismic sound from the ground to the fenestra vestibuli than a horizontal orientated stapes. The low sound pressure level transformer ratio of 2–3 inKawingasauruspoints to a seismic sensitivity of the middle ear and a vestigial or reduced sensitivity to airborne sound. Three hypothetical pathways of bone conduction inKawingasaurusare discussed: 1) sound transmission via the spatulate snout and skull roof to the otic capsules, 2) relative movements resulting from the inertia of the mandible if sound is percepted with the skull, and 3) bone conduction from the substrate via mandible, jaw articulation, and stapes to the inner ear. J. Morphol. 276:121–143, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Metabolic profiling of synovial fluid in a unilateral ovine model of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction of the knee suggests biomarkers for early osteoarthritis
Authors: Mickiewicz Beata , Heard Bryan J. , Chau Johnny K. , Chung May , Hart David A. , Shrive Nigel G. , Frank Cyril B. , Vogel Hans J.
Published: October 2014

Joint injuries and subsequent osteoarthritis (OA) are the leading causes of chronic joint disease. In this work, we explore the possibility of applying magnetic resonance spectroscopy‐based metabolomics to detect host responses to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction injury in synovial fluid in an ovine model. Using multivariate statistical analysis, we were able to distinguish post‐injury joint samples (ACL and sham surgery) from the uninjured control samples, and as well the ACL surgical samples from sham surgery. In all samples there were 65 metabolites quantified, of which six could be suggested as biomarkers for early post‐injury degenerative changes in the knee joints: isobutyrate, glucose, hydroxyproline, asparagine, serine, and uridine. Our results raise a cautionary note indicating that surgical interventions into the knee can result in metabolic alterations that need to be distinguished from those caused by the early onset of OA. Our findings illustrate the potential application of metabolomics as a diagnostic and prognostic tool for detection of injuries to the knee joint. The ability to detect a unique pattern of metabolic changes in the synovial fluid of sheep offers the possibility of extending the approach to precision medicine protocols in patient populations in the future. © 2014 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 33:71–77, 2015.
Cognitive executive impairment and dopaminergic deficits in de novo Parkinson's disease
Authors: Siepel Françoise J. , Brønnick Kolbjørn S. , Booij Jan , Ravina Bernard M. , Lebedev Alexander V. , Pereira Joana B. , Grüner Renate , Aarsland Dag
Published: October 2014

Cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease (PD) is common and does directly impact patients' everyday functioning. However, the underlying mechanisms of early cognitive decline are not known. This study explored the association between striatal dopaminergic deficits and cognitive impairment within a large cohort of early, drug‐naïve PD patients and tested the hypothesis that executive dysfunction in PD is associated with striatal dopaminergic depletion. A cross‐sectional multicenter cohort of 339 PD patients and 158 healthy controls from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative study was analyzed. Each individual underwent cerebral single‐photon emission CT (SPECT) and a standardized neuropsychological assessment with tests of memory as well as visuospatial and executive function. SPECT imaging was performed with [123I]FP‐CIT, and specific binding ratios in left and right putamen and caudate nucleus were calculated. The association between specific binding ratios, cognitive domain scores, and age was analyzed using Pearson's correlations, partial correlation, and conditional process analysis. A small, but significant, positive association between total striatal dopamine transporter binding and the attention/executive domain was found (r = 0.141; P = 0.009) in PD, but this was not significant after adjusting for age. However, in a moderated mediation model, we found that cognitive executive differences between controls and patients with PD were mediated by an age‐moderated striatal dopaminergic deficit. Our findings support the hypothesis that nigrostriatal dopaminergic deficit is associated with executive impairment, but not to memory or visuospatial impairment, in early PD. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Primary familial brain calcification: Genetic analysis and clinical spectrum
Authors: Taglia Ilaria , Mignarri Andrea , Olgiati Simone , Menci Elisabetta , Petrocelli Patrizia L. , Breedveld Guido J. , Scaglione Cesa , Martinelli Paolo , Federico Antonio , Bonifati Vincenzo , Dotti Maria Teresa
Published: October 2014

Background

Primary familial brain calcification (PFBC) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder with bilateral calcification of basal ganglia and other cerebral regions, movement disorders, and neuropsychiatric disturbances. So far, three causative genes have been discovered: SLC20A2, PDGFRB and PDGFB, accounting for approximately 50% of cases.

Methods

Seven unrelated families with primary brain calcification were recruited to undergo clinical and genetic analysis, including Sanger sequencing of SLC20A2, PDGFRB, and PDGFB, and copy number analysis of SLC20A2.

Results

Mutations in SLC20A2 have been detected in three families: p.Glu368Glyfs*46, p.Ser434Trp, and p.Thr595Met. Intrafamilial phenotype variability has been observed. In spite of this, we found similar neuroimaging pattern among members of the same family.

Conclusions

This molecular analysis expands the mutational spectrum of SLC20A2, which remains the major causative gene of primary familial brain calcification, and suggests the existence of disease‐causing mutations in at least another, still unknown gene. © 2014 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Cover time of a random graph with a degree sequence II: Allowing vertices of degree two
Authors: Cooper Colin , Frieze Alan , Lubetzky Eyal
Published: October 2014

We study the cover time of a random graph chosen uniformly at random from the set of graphs with vertex set [n] and degree sequence . In a previous work (Abdullah, Cooper, and Frieze, Discrete Math 312 (2012), 3146–3163), the asymptotic cover time was obtained under a number of assumptions on d, the most significant being that di ≥ 3 for all i. Here we replace this assumption by di ≥ 2. As a corollary, we establish the asymptotic cover time for the 2‐core of the emerging giant component of . © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 45, 627–674, 2014
Influence of a Diet Enriched with Perilla Seed Bran on the Composition of Omega‐3 Fatty Acid in Nile Tilapia
Authors: dos Santos Hevelyse Munise Celestino , Nishiyama Márcia Fernandes , Bonafe Elton Guntendorfer , de Oliveira Carlos Antonio Lopes , Matsushita Makoto , Visentainer Jesui Vergilio , Ribeiro Ricardo Pereira
Published: October 2014

This study evaluated the effect of inclusion of perilla seed bran (PSB) in the diet of Nile tilapia genetically improved farmed tilapia (GIFT) on the concentration of fatty acid n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) according to the function of feeding time. The GIFT were cultivated in net cages for 60 days using a control diet with soybean oil and supplemented with PSB. Analyses of the proximate composition and quantification of fatty acids (mg g−1of total lipids) were performed in muscle tissue every 15 days. The PSB diet influenced the lipid composition of GIFT fillets by linolenic acid incorporation, which was approximately 384 %, resulting in an increase of 5.2 times the sum of n‐3 PUFA. On the other hand, there was a decrease in the sum of saturated fatty acids. During treatment, there was a continuous increase in n‐3 PUFA, proving the influence of feeding time in the lipid composition of GIFT fillets. The indices of the lipid quality of fillets coming from fish fed the PSB diet were improved. Of these indices, a n‐6/n‐3 ratio presented a significant reduction of 74.15 %, proving the quality of the dietary lipid. Therefore, the inclusion of PSB significantly altered the fatty acid muscle tissue composition of GIFT during feeding time, contributing to an increase in its nutritional value.
Involvement of lysosomal degradation in VEGF‐C‐induced down‐regulation of VEGFR‐3
Authors: Han Kyu-Yeon , Chang Jin-Hong , Dugas-Ford Jennifer , Alexander Jonathan S. , Azar Dimitri T.
Published: October 2014

The vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐C‐induced down‐regulation of VEGF receptor (VEGFR)‐3 is important in lymphangiogenesis. Here, we demonstrate that VEGF‐C, ‐D, and ‐C156S, but not VEGF‐A, down‐regulate VEGFR‐3. VEGF‐C stimulates VEGFR‐3 tyrosyl phosphorylation and transient phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), p38, and c‐Jun N‐terminal kinases in lymphatic endothelial cells. VEGF‐C‐induced down‐regulation of VEGFR‐3 was blocked by a VEGF‐C trap, tyrosine kinase inhibitor, and leupeptin, pepstatin, and E64 (LPE), but was unaffected by Notch 1 activator and γ‐secretase inhibitors. Our findings indicate that VEGF‐C down‐regulates VEGFR‐3 in lymphatic endothelial cells through VEGFR‐3 kinase activation and, in part, via lysosomal degradation.
DISP3 promotes proliferation and delays differentiation of neural progenitor cells
Authors: Zíková Martina , Konířová Jana , Ditrychová Karolína , Corlett Alicia , Kolář Michal , Bartůněk Petr
Published: October 2014

DISP3 (PTCHD2), a sterol‐sensing domain‐containing protein, is highly expressed in neural tissue but its role in neural differentiation is unknown. In the present study we used a multipotent cerebellar progenitor cell line, C17.2, to investigate the impact of DISP3 on the proliferation and differentiation of neural precursors. We found that ectopically expressed DISP3 promotes cell proliferation and alters expression of genes that are involved in tumorigenesis. Finally, the differentiation profile of DISP3‐expressing cells was altered, as evidenced by delayed expression of neural specific markers and a reduced capacity to undergo neural differentiation.
Modulation of inflammation response to murine cutaneous Leishmaniasis by homeopathic medicines: Antimonium crudum 30cH
Authors: Rodrigues de Santana Fabiana , de Paula Coelho Cidéli , Cardoso Thayná Neves , Perez Hurtado Elizabeth Cristina , Roberti Benites Nilson , Dalastra Laurenti Marcia , Villano Bonamin Leoni
Published: October 2014

Background: Leishmaniasis is a zoonotic disease caused by protozoan parasites of the mononuclear phagocytic system. The modulation activity of these cells can interfere in the host/parasite relationship and influences the prognosis.

Methods: We evaluated the effects of the homeopathic preparation Antimonium crudum 30cH on experimental infection induced by Leishmania (L.) amazonensis. Male Balb/c mice were inoculated with 2 × 106 Leishmania (L.) amazonensis promastigotes into the footpad and, after 48 h (acute phase) or 60 days (chronic phase), cell population of lymphocytes and phagocytes present in the peritoneal washing fluid and spleen were analyzed by flow cytometry and histopathology, with histometry of the subcutaneous primary lesion, local lymph node and spleen. Immunohistochemistry was performed to quantify CD3 (T lymphocyte), CD45RA (B lymphocyte) and CD11b (phagocytes) positive cells.

Results: In treated mice, during the acute phase, there was significant increase of the macroscopic lesion, associated to inflammatory edema, as well increase in the number of free amastigotes and B lymphocytes inside the lesion. Increase of B lymphocytes (predominantly B-2 cells) was also seen in the local lymph node, spleen and peritoneum. In the chronic phase, the inflammatory process in the infection focus was reduced, with reduced phagocyte migration and peritoneal increase of B-1a cells (precursors of B-2 immunoglobulin producers cells) and T CD8+ cells.

Conclusion: The treatment of mice with Antimonium crudum 30cH induced a predominantly B cell pattern of immune response in Leishmania (L.) amazonensis experimental infection, alongside the increase of free amastigote forms number in the infection site. The clinical significance of this study is discussed, further studies are suggested.
Proportion of cervical excision for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia as a predictor of pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Kyrgiou Maria , Valasoulis George , Stasinou Sofia‐Melina , Founta Christina , Athanasiou Antonios , Bennett Phillip , Paraskevadis Evangelos
Published: October 2014

Objective

To assess how the proportion of the cervical volume/length removed during treatment for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) varies and whether this correlates to the pregnancy duration at delivery.

Methods

The present prospective observational study included 142 women undergoing CIN treatment at a university hospital during 2009–2013. The pretreatment and post‐treatment cervical dimensions and cone size were measured with magnetic resonance imaging, three‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography, or two‐dimensional transvaginal ultrasonography, and the correlation between pregnancy outcomes and the relative proportion of the cervix excised was assessed.

Results

Pretreatment cervical volumes and cone volumes varied substantially (range 11–40 cm3 and 0.6–8 cm3, respectively). The proportion of the volume excised ranged from 2.2% to 39.4%. Sixteen (11%) women conceived following treatment; 12 had a live birth (seven at term, three preterm). The pregnancy duration at delivery was significantly correlated with the proportion of the cervical volume (r = −0.9; P < 0.001) and length (r = −0.7; P = 0.01) excised and the cone volume (r = −0.6; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

The pretreatment cervical dimensions and the proportions of the volume/length excised vary substantially, and the latter correlates with the pregnancy duration. Assessment of the proportion excised might help to stratify women at risk who need intensive surveillance when pregnant.
Effectiveness of an educational intervention on the suitability of indications for cesarean delivery in a Brazilian teaching hospital
Authors: Marquini Gisele V. , Jorge Miguel T. , Pinto Rogério M.C.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention to adjust the indications for caesarean delivery in a Brazilian teaching hospital in accordance with a specific protocol.

Methods

The present before‐and‐after study was carried out in three stages. In stages 1 and 3, data were obtained for 160 cesarean deliveries that occurred between May 20 and July 10 in 2011 and 2012, respectively. For stage 2, the protocol was implemented for 12 months. The deliveries in stages 1 and 3 were classified as high or low risk, and as consistent or inconsistent clinical cases on the basis of the protocol.

Results

A total of 160 (61.1%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 55.2–67.0) of 262 deliveries in stage 1 were by cesarean, compared with 160 (71.4%; 95% CI 65.5–77.3) of 224 in stage 3 (P = 0.67). In stage 1, 125 (78.1%; 95% CI 71.7–84.5) showed indications consistent with the protocol, compared with 136 (85.0%; 95% CI 79.5–90.5) in stage 3 (P = 0.11). Among the low‐risk cesarean deliveries, 27 (51.9%; 95% CI 38.3–65.5) of 52 were consistent with the protocol in stage 1, compared with 49 (72.1%; 95% CI 61.4–86.1) of 68 in stage 3 (P = 0.02).

Conclusion

The proposed intervention improved the suitability of indications for cesarean delivery among low‐risk pregnancies only.
A longitudinal study of unplanned pregnancy in a maternity hospital setting
Authors: McKeating Aoife , Crosby David A. , Collins Martha , O'Higgins Amy , McMahon Léan , Turner Michael J.
Published: October 2014

Objective

To review family planning in a cohort of women who delivered a second child within 3 years of their first.

Methods

A longitudinal, observational study included women aged at least 18 years who had delivered a singleton weighing at least 500 g in 2009 after their first pregnancy at a hospital in Dublin, Ireland, and who returned to the hospital for prenatal care for a second pregnancy before January 2012. Logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the effect of maternal characteristics on pregnancy intention.

Results

Of 3284 primigravidas who delivered in 2009, 1220 (37.1%) returned with a second pregnancy. The second pregnancy was unplanned in 248 (20.3%) women, and both pregnancies were unplanned in 124 (10.2%). The second pregnancy was more likely to be unplanned in women whose first pregnancy was also unplanned than in those whose first was planned (adjusted odds ratio 6.5; 95% confidence interval 4.6–8.4; P < 0.001). Among the 99 women with recurrent unplanned pregnancy who had not been using contraception before the first pregnancy, 85 (85.9%) were also not using contraception before the second.

Conclusion

Women whose first pregnancy is unplanned are at increased risk of subsequent unplanned pregnancies. Postnatal contraceptive advice in this high‐risk group should be prioritized.
The prevalence of sexually transmitted infections among migrant female patients in Italy
Authors: Laganà Antonio S. , Gavagni Valeria , Musubao Justine V. , Pizzo Alfonsa
Published: October 2014

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of several sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among migrant women incoming to Italy.

Methods

A single‐center, prospective, observational study was conducted of migrant women who had attended an outpatient clinic in Messina, Italy, between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2013. Participants underwent a gynecologic examination and a cervical smear test. Patients who showed cytologic alterations underwent human papillomavirus (HPV) typing by PCR and allele‐specific hybridization. Routine tests for hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), HIV, and syphilis were done for pregnant participants.

Results

Overall, 724 women were enrolled, of whom 320 (44.2%) were pregnant. The mean ± SD age was 33.1 ± 9.8 years. Cytologic abnormalities were recorded for 76 (10.5%) participants. Among 46 who attended a follow‐up clinic, 32 (69.6%) tested positive for HPV serotypes. Among the pregnant women, 9 (2.8%) had HBV infection, 3 (0.9%) had HCV infection, and 1 (0.3%) had HIV infection. No cases of syphilis were recorded.

Conclusion

The prevalence of STIs among migrant women in Messina is similar to that among nonmigrants.
The Mummy
Authors: Budge E. A. Wallis
Published: October 2014

Sir Ernest Alfred Thompson Wallis Budge (1857–1934) was a prominent English Egyptologist who was Keeper of the Department of Egyptian and Assyrian Antiquities in the British Museum between 1893 and 1924. He was knighted in 1920 for his contributions to Egyptology. First published in 1893, this book contains a detailed discussion of the funerary rituals and objects which were used in Egyptian religion to allow the deceased to live again in the Duat (the afterlife). Budge provides detailed descriptions of common religious texts, religious rites and the major deities involved in these. He also includes interpretations for other artefacts which commonly accompanied a burial, including shabiti statues and amulets. His comprehensive study represents the state of Egyptian funerary archaeology before major archaeological finds of the twentieth century challenged its interpretations. The text reissued here is taken from the expanded and revised second edition, published in 1925.
Life and Labours of Thomas Brassey
Authors: Helps Arthur
Published: October 2014

An important figure in British business history, the civil engineering contractor Thomas Brassey (1805–70) stood at the forefront of railway construction across the globe in the nineteenth century. He was also instrumental in the development of the Victoria Dock and part of London's sewer system. Originally published in 1872 and reissued here in its 1888 seventh edition, this first biography of Brassey was written by his personal friend, the public servant and author Sir Arthur Helps (1813–75). It describes Brassey's many remarkable achievements as a prolific contractor working in Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas. A brilliant businessman, representing the best of British skill, leadership and organisation, Brassey employed tens of thousands of men around the world at the peak of his career. Having collaborated with prominent engineers such as Joseph Locke and Robert Stephenson, he secured for himself a long-lasting reputation for integrity and dedication.
The Rev. J. G. Wood
Authors: Wood Theodore
Published: October 2014

An Oxford-educated clergyman and prolific writer on natural history topics ranging from seashore wildlife to microscopy, John George Wood (1827–89) wrote and lectured for a receptive Victorian audience. His books were not rigorously scientific, but they made their subjects accessible to laypeople and were said to have inspired many future naturalists in their youth. His Nature's Teachings (1877) has also been reissued in this series. Theodore Wood (1862–1923) published this biography of his father in 1890. The account covers Wood's childhood and education, his clerical work and his desire to share his enthusiasm for the natural world with the public. His lecturing engagements, including a tour of America, and his home life are also discussed. An affectionate portrait of a significant figure in the history of popular science, this work sheds light on the intellectual interests of its subject and his readership.
Fossils of All Kinds
Authors: Woodward John
Published: October 2014

To the naturalist John Woodward (c.1665–1728), fossils were 'much neglected, and left wholly to the Care and Treatment of Miners and meer Mechanicks'. He had built up a large personal collection of these samples of the Earth's petrified remains and spent much of his life developing a system for their classification, the results of which were published in this important illustrated work of 1728. A distinguished physician and a fellow of the Royal Society, Woodward wrote extensively on scientific topics, and had developed a theory that fossils were creatures destroyed in the flood described in the Bible. These ideas attracted critics and supporters in equal measure, but his contribution to techniques of fossil collection and classification were influential. In the present work, he devotes the early chapters to questions of description and classification, while the later sections contain some of his letters to his scientific contemporaries, including Isaac Newton.
Hortus Kewensis
Authors: Aiton William
Published: October 2014

Trained as a gardener in his native Scotland, William Aiton (1731–93) had worked in the Chelsea Physic Garden prior to coming to Kew in 1759. He met Joseph Banks in 1764, and the pair worked together to develop the scientific and horticultural status of the gardens. Aiton had become superintendent of the entire Kew estate by 1783. This important three-volume work, first published in 1789, took as its starting point the plant catalogue begun in 1773. In its compilation, Aiton was greatly assisted with the identification and scientific description of species, according to the Linnaean system, by the botanists Daniel Solander and Jonas Dryander (the latter contributed most of the third volume). Aiton added dates of introduction and horticultural information. An important historical resource, it covers some 5,600 species and features a selection of engravings. Volume 3 covers Diadelphia to Cryptogamia, and includes addenda and indexes of generic and English names.