bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A mathematical model of adult subventricular neurogenesis
Authors: Ashbourn J. M. A. , Miller J. J. , Reumers V. , Baekelandt V. , Geris L.
Published: May 2012

Neurogenesis has been the subject of active research in recent years and many authors have explored the phenomenology of the process, its regulation and its purported purpose. Recent developments in bioluminescent imaging (BLI) allow direct
in vivo
imaging of neurogenesis, and in order to interpret the experimental results, mathematical models are necessary. This study proposes such a mathematical model that describes adult mammalian neurogenesis occurring in the subventricular zone and the subsequent migration of cells through the rostral migratory stream to the olfactory bulb (OB). This model assumes that a single chemoattractant is responsible for cell migration, secreted both by the OB and in an endocrine fashion by the cells involved in neurogenesis. The solutions to the system of partial differential equations are compared with the physiological rodent process, as previously documented in the literature and quantified through the use of BLI, and a parameter space is described, the corresponding solution to which matches that of the rodent model. A sensitivity analysis shows that this parameter space is stable to perturbation and furthermore that the system as a whole is sloppy. A large number of parameter sets are stochastically generated, and it is found that parameter spaces corresponding to physiologically plausible solutions generally obey constraints similar to the conditions reported
in vivo
. This further corroborates the model and its underlying assumptions based on the current understanding of the investigated phenomenon. Concomitantly, this leaves room for further quantitative predictions pertinent to the design of future proposed experiments.
Hydrophobin Vmh2–glucose complexes self-assemble in nanometric biofilms
Authors: Rea Ilaria , Giardina Paola , Longobardi Sara , Porro Fabrizio , Casuscelli Valeria , Rendina Ivo , De Stefano Luca
Published: May 2012

Hydrophobins are small proteins secreted by fungi, which self-assemble into amphipathic membranes at air–liquid or liquid–solid interfaces. The physical and chemical properties of some hydrophobins, both in solution and as a biofilm, are affected by poly or oligosaccharides. We have studied the interaction between glucose and the hydrophobin Vmh2 from
Pleurotus ostreatus
by spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and water contact angle (WCA). We have found that Vmh2–glucose complexes forms a chemically stable biofilm, obtained by drop deposition on silicon, 1.6 nm thick and containing 35 per cent of glucose, quantified by SE. AFM highlighted the presence of nanometric rodlet-like aggregates (average height, width and length being equal to 3.6, 23.8 and 40 nm, respectively) on the biofilm surface, slightly different from those obtained in the absence of glucose (4.11, 23.9 and 64 nm). The wettability of a silicon surface, covered by the organic layer of Vmh2–glucose, strongly changed: WCA decreased from 90° down to 17°.
Hydrogen bis[tris(4-fluorophenyl)phosphane oxide] triiodide
Authors: Haghjoo Farhad , Barnes Nicholas A. , Pritchard Robin , Godfrey Stephen M. , Ratcliffe Shane
Published: May 2012

In the title compound, C36H25F6O2P2+·I3−, hydrogen-bonded [{(p-FC6H4)3PO}2H]+dimers assemble along the crystallographiccaxis to form channels that house extended chains of triiodide anions. Although the I—I bond lengths of 2.9452 (14) and 2.9023 (15) Å are typical, the inter-ion I...I distance of 3.5774 (10) Å is unusually short.A posteriorimodelling of nonmerohedral twinning about (100) has been only partially successful, achieving a reduction in the maximum residual electron density from 5.28 to 3.24 e Å−3. The inclusion of two low-occupancy I-atom sites (total 1.7%), which can be interpreted as translational disorder of the triiodide anions along the channels, reduced the maximum residual electron density to 2.03 e Å−3. The minor fractional contribution volume of the nonmerohedral twin domains refined to 0.24 and simultaneous refinement of the inversion twin domains showed the crystal to be a 0.5:0.5 inversion twin.
Two patterns of solar lentigines: A histopathological analysis of 40 Japanese women
Authors: YONEI Nozomi , KAMINAKA Chikako , KIMURA Ayako , FURUKAWA Fukumi , YAMAMOTO Yuki
Published: May 2012

Solar lentigines are common acquired pigmented lesions on sun‐exposed skin. Their histopathological features have been reported as large numbers of melanocytes at the base of clubbed and budding rete ridges. In this study, biopsies were taken from facial solar lentigines in 40 Japanese women, and the sections were stained using hematoxylin–eosin, Fontana–Masson, and immunostained for melanocytes and Langerhans cells in order to verify the histological patterns of Japanese patients. We characterized the histopathological features of solar lentigines on the face and identified two patterns: one pattern (20/40 cases) demonstrated a flattened epidermis with basal melanosis, and the other pattern (20/40 cases) showed epidermal hyperplasia with elongated rete ridges composed of deeply pigmented basaloid cells. We termed the former pattern the “flattened epidermis” group, and the latter the “budding” group, respectively. The flattened epidermis group showed a significantly thinner epidermis, more severe solar elastosis and fewer Langerhans cells in the epidermis as compared with the budding group. We concluded that more severely sun‐damaged solar lentigines might show the changes observed in the flattened epidermis group. Langerhans cells in the epidermis of solar lentigines might play a role in the remission of postinflammatory pigmentation due to aesthetic treatment.
Association ofCASP3polymorphism with hematologic toxicity in patients with advanced non‐small‐cell lung carcinoma treated with platinum‐based chemotherapy
Authors: Gu Shaohua , Wu Qihan , Zhao Xueying , Wu Wenting , Gao Zhiqiang , Tan Xiaoming , Qian Ji , Chen Hongyan , Xie Yi , Jin Li , Han Baohui , Lu Daru
Published: May 2012

Apoptosis is a distinct mode of cell death that is responsible for the deletion of cells in tumors and in normal tissues. We pursued a pathway‐based approach to investigate the association of potentially functional genetic polymorphisms of the corresponding genes with the outcomes of platinum‐based chemotherapy in advanced non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). AMALDI‐TOFmass spectrometer was used for genotyping 10 polymorphisms of eight apoptosis‐related genes, includingBCL2rs1801018, rs1564483, rs2279115,BAXrs4645878, caspase (CASP3) rs6948,CASP8rs3834129,CASP10rs13006529, rs3900115, tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) rs1800629, and macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) rs755622. The associations between these single nucleotide polymorphisms and the outcomes of 445 advancedNSCLCpatients treated with platinum‐based chemotherapy were evaluated. TheCASP3rs6948 polymorphism was most significantly associated with hematologic toxicity in a dose‐dependent manner. The incidence of severe hematologic toxicity was significantly lower in C allele carriers (P = 0.005; odds ratio = 0.524; 95% confidence interval = 0.333–0.824) and still significant after aBonferroni correction. The function of this single nucleotide polymorphism in gene expression was also investigated. QuantitativePCRshowed that individuals with theCallele had lower levels ofCASP3transcripts in peripheral blood lymphocytes. Luciferase reporter assays showed that the minorCallele significantly decreased the reporter gene expression level. In addition, theTNFαrs1800629 mutant allele significantly elevated gastrointestinal toxicity (P = 0.020; odds ratio = 3.020; 95% confidence interval = 1.188–7.676), when compared to the wild‐type homozygote. No other association was found. In conclusion, for the first time, our study suggests thatCASP3rs6948 might influenceCASP3expression and be associated with severe hematologic toxicity risk. (Cancer Sci, doi: 10.1111/j.1349‐7006.2012.02323.x, 2012)
Patients' knowledge of pregnancy‐related issues in inflammatory bowel disease and validation of a novel assessment tool (‘CCPKnow’)
Authors: Selinger C. P. , Eaden J. , Selby W. , Jones D. B. , Katelaris P. , Chapman G. , McDonald C. , McLaughlin J. , Leong R. W. L. , Lal S.
Published: May 2012

Background

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) require complex therapeutic decisions and life choices concerning pregnancy, but little is known about patient's knowledge of IBD and its treatment before and during pregnancy.

Aim

To develop a novel tool (Crohn's and Colitis Pregnancy Knowledge Score ‘CCPKnow’) to assess knowledge of pregnancy‐related issues in IBD. The validated tool was then applied to determine knowledge in patients.

Method

Discriminate ability of ‘CCPKnow’ was validated in four groups with different levels of IBD knowledge. Reliability and readability were tested by Cronbach‐α and Flesch‐Kencaid. Construct validity was subsequently assessed against general IBD knowledge (CCKnow) in 145 women with IBD. Associations between patient factors and knowledge were studied.

Results

Median CCPKnow scores differed significantly between the validation groups (P < 0.001). CCPKnow displayed excellent internal consistency, reliability (Cronbach‐α 0.94), readability (reading age 9 years) and close correlation with CCKnow (Spearman's ρ 0.64; P < 0.001). Of 145 patients, 44.8% had poor, 27.6% adequate, 17.3% good and only 10.3% very good knowledge. Better knowledge was associated with Caucasian ethnicity, higher income, having a partner, having children, Crohn's and Colitis Association membership, longer disease duration and Crohn's disease.

Conclusions

Crohn's and Colitis Pregnancy Knowledge Score, a novel knowledge assessment tool of pregnancy and IBD, demonstrated excellent test characteristics. We found that nearly half of the women with IBD had poor knowledge, identifying a pressing need for better education.
Radiation‐guided breast sentinel lymph node biopsies – is a handling delay for radiation protection necessary?
Authors: Singleton Mark , Firth Matthew , Stephenson Tim , Morrison Giles , Baginska Joanna
Published: May 2012

Singleton M, Firth M, Stephenson T, Morrison G & Baginska J  (2012) Histopathology 61, 277–282

Radiation‐guided breast sentinel lymph node biopsies – is a handling delay for radiation protection necessary?

Aims:  Radiation‐guided sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy is a well‐established procedure in many countries. However, histopathology protocols in different centres specify widely differing sample handling delays of between 0 and 72 h. Introducing a delay reduces the radiation exposure of pathologists, but has a detrimental effect on the quality and validity of histology. This study aims to show that a sample handling delay is not justified by the radiation doses to pathologists handling samples received directly from surgery.

Methods and results:  Radiation doses to the body and hands of pathologists handling samples delivered directly from theatres were measured using personal dose meters. These measurements were supplemented by dose assessments undertaken using dose‐rate measurements at 1 cm and 30 cm from Tc‐99m sources to simulate the processing of samples. The study has shown that radiation doses arising from a zero delay in sample handling represent a negligible radiation risk to pathologists and are well within relevant limits specified in the Ionising Radiations Regulations 1999.

Conclusions:  This study supports adoption of a zero‐delay SLN histopathology protocol. Centres must, however, complete a risk assessment that accounts for local practice and adopt simple precautions to keep doses to pathologists as low as reasonably achievable.
Breast cancer outcomes by steroid hormone receptor status assessed visually and by computer image analysis
Authors: Mohammed Zahra M A , Edwards Joanne , Orange Clare , Mallon Elizabeth , Doughty Julie C , McMillan Donald C , Going James J
Published: May 2012

Mohammed Z M A, Edwards J, Orange C, Mallon E, Doughty J C, McMillan D C & Going J J  (2012) Histopathology 61, 283–292

Breast cancer outcomes by steroid hormone receptor status assessed visually and by computer image analysis

Aims:  To compare the assessment of steroid hormone receptor immunohistochemistry by eye and by computer‐aided image analysis, and to examine their relationships with survival in breast cancer.

Methods and results:  Allred scores and weighted histoscores for oestrogen receptor (ER) and progesterone receptor (PR) immunohistochemistry were determined by eye (visual histoscore) for 459 primary invasive ductal breast carcinomas in triplicate tissue microarrays. Histoscores were also determined by computerized image analysis (automated histoscore). ER and PR status determined by these different methods were compared with each other and in their ability to predict survival over at least 142 months of follow‐up. Allred and visual histoscore were highly associated for ER and PR (both P < 0.001). By univariate analysis, Allred score and visual histoscore for ER and PR were highly associated with recurrence‐free and cancer‐specific survival (both P < 0.001) in patients with invasive ductal breast cancer overall, in those who received tamoxifen, and in those with recurrence on tamoxifen. Visual and automated histoscores were in excellent agreement for ER and PR (both P < 0.001), and were equally effective in predicting recurrence and survival for patients with invasive breast cancer who received tamoxifen.

Conclusions:  Automated histoscore appears to be a valid alternative to visual histoscore or Allred score for determining ER and PR status.
Virtual reality microscope versus conventional microscope regarding time to diagnosis: an experimental study
Authors: Randell Rebecca , Ruddle Roy A , Mello‐Thoms Claudia , Thomas Rhys G , Quirke Phil , Treanor Darren
Published: May 2012

Aims:  To create and evaluate a virtual reality (VR) microscope that is as efficient as the conventional microscope, seeking to support the introduction of digital slides into routine practice.

Methods and results:  A VR microscope was designed and implemented by combining ultra‐high‐resolution displays with VR technology, techniques for fast interaction, and high usability. It was evaluated using a mixed factorial experimental design with technology and task as within‐participant variables and grade of histopathologist as a between‐participant variable. Time to diagnosis was similar for the conventional and VR microscopes. However, there was a significant difference in the mean magnification used between the two technologies, with participants working at a higher level of magnification on the VR microscope.

Conclusions:  The results suggest that, with the right technology, efficient use of digital pathology for routine practice is a realistic possibility. Further work is required to explore what magnification is required on the VR microscope for histopathologists to identify diagnostic features, and the effect on this of the digital slide production process.
N‐ and C‐terminal degradation of ecdysteroid receptor isoforms, when transiently expressed in mammalian CHO cells, is regulated by the proteasome and cysteine and threonine proteases
Authors: Schauer S. , Burster T. , Spindler‐Barth M.
Published: May 2012

Transcriptional activity of nuclear receptors is the result of transactivation capability and the concentration of the receptor protein. The concentration of ecdysteroid receptor (EcR) isoforms, constitutively expressed in mammalian CHO cells, is dependent on a number of factors. As shown previously, ligand binding stabilizes receptor protein concentration. In this paper, we investigate the degradation of EcR isoforms and provide evidence that N‐terminal degradation is modulated by isoform‐specific ubiquitination sites present in the A/B domains of EcR‐A and ‐B1. This was demonstrated by the increase in EcR concentration by treatment with carbobenzoxy‐L‐leucyl‐L‐leucyl‐L‐leucinal (MG132), an inhibitor of ubiquitin‐mediated proteasomal degradation and by deletion of ubiquitination sites. In addition, EcR is degraded by the peptidyl‐dipeptidase cathepsin B (CatB) and the endopeptidase cathepsin S (CatS) at the C‐terminus in an isoform‐specific manner, despite identical C‐termini. Ubiquitin‐proteasome‐mediated degradation and the proteolytic action are modulated by heterodimerization with Ultraspiracle (USP). The complex regulation of receptor protein concentration offers an additional opportunity to regulate transcriptional activity in an isoform‐ and target cell‐specific way and allows the temporal limitation of hormone action.
Adherence to the Australian National Inpatient Medication Chart: the efficacy of a uniform national drug chart on improving prescription error
Authors: Atik Alp
Published: May 2012

Background  In 2006, the National Inpatient Medication Chart (NIMC) was introduced as a uniform medication chart in Australian public hospitals with the aim of reducing prescription error.

Purpose  The rate of regular medication prescription error in the NIMC was assessed.

Methods  Data was collected using the NIMC Audit Tool and analyzed with respect to causes of error per medication prescription and per medication chart. The following prescription requirements were assessed: date, generic drug name, route of administration, dose, frequency, administration time, indication, signature, name and contact details.

Findings  A total of 1877 medication prescriptions were reviewed. 1653 prescriptions (88.07%) had no contact number, 1630 (86.84%) did not have an indication, 1230 and 675 (35.96%) used a drug's trade name. Within 261 medication charts, all had at least one entry, which did not include an indication, 258 (98.85%) had at least one entry, which did not have a contact number and 200 (76.63%) had at least one entry, which used a trade name.

Discussion  The introduction of a uniform national medication chart is a positive step, but more needs to be done to address the root causes of prescription error.
Towards global patterns in the diversity and community structure of ectomycorrhizal fungi
Authors: TEDERSOO LEHO , BAHRAM MOHAMMAD , TOOTS MÄRT , DIÉDHIOU ABDALA G. , HENKEL TERRY W. , KJØLLER RASMUS , MORRIS MELISSA H. , NARA KAZUHIDE , NOUHRA EDUARDO , PEAY KABIR G. , PÕLME SERGEI , RYBERG MARTIN , SMITH MATTHEW E. , KÕLJALG URMAS
Published: May 2012

Global species richness patterns of soil micro‐organisms remain poorly understood compared to macro‐organisms. We use a global analysis to disentangle the global determinants of diversity and community composition for ectomycorrhizal (EcM) fungi—microbial symbionts that play key roles in plant nutrition in most temperate and many tropical forest ecosystems. Host plant family has the strongest effect on the phylogenetic community composition of fungi, whereas temperature and precipitation mostly affect EcM fungal richness that peaks in the temperate and boreal forest biomes, contrasting with latitudinal patterns of macro‐organisms. Tropical ecosystems experience rapid turnover of organic material and have weak soil stratification, suggesting that poor habitat conditions may contribute to the relatively low richness of EcM fungi, and perhaps other soil biota, in most tropical ecosystems. For EcM fungi, greater evolutionary age and larger total area of EcM host vegetation may also contribute to the higher diversity in temperate ecosystems. Our results provide useful biogeographic and ecological hypotheses for explaining the distribution of fungi that remain to be tested by involving next‐generation sequencing techniques and relevant soil metadata.
Kin association during brood care in a facultatively social bird: active discrimination or by‐product of partner choice and demography?
Authors: JAATINEN KIM , NOREIKIENE KRISTINA , MERILÄ JUHA , ÖST MARKUS
Published: May 2012

Intra‐group relatedness does not necessarily imply kin selection, a leading explanation for social evolution. An overlooked mechanism for generating population genetic structure is variation in longevity and fecundity, referred to as individual quality, affecting kin structure and the potential for cooperation. Individual quality also affects choosiness in partner choice, a key process explaining cooperation through direct fitness benefits. Reproductive skew theory predicts that relatedness decreases with increasing group size, but this relationship could also arise because of quality‐dependent demography and partner choice, without active kin association. We addressed whether brood‐rearing eider (Somateria mollissima) females preferentially associated with kin using a 6‐year data set with individuals genotyped at 19 microsatellite loci and tested whether relatedness decreased with increasing female group size. We also determined the relationship between local relatedness and indices of female age and body condition. We further examined whether the level of female intracoalition relatedness differed from background relatedness in any year. As predicted, median female intra‐group relatedness decreased with increasing female group size. However, the proportion of related individuals increased with advancing female age, and older females prefer smaller brood‐rearing coalitions, potentially producing a negative relationship between group size and relatedness. There were considerable annual fluctuations in the level of relatedness between coalition‐forming females, and in 1 year this level exceeded that expected by random association. Thus, both passive and active mechanisms govern kin associations in brood‐rearing eiders. Eiders apparently can discriminate between kin, but the benefits of doing so may vary over time.
Model‐based comparisons of phylogeographic scenarios resolve the intraspecific divergence of cactophilic Drosophila mojavensis
Authors: SMITH GILBERT , LOHSE KONRAD , ETGES WILLIAM J. , RITCHIE MICHAEL G.
Published: May 2012

The cactophilic fly Drosophila mojavensis exhibits considerable intraspecific genetic structure across allopatric geographic regions and shows associations with different host cactus species across its range. The divergence between these populations has been studied for more than 60 years, yet their exact historical relationships have not been resolved. We analysed sequence data from 15 intronic X‐linked loci across populations from Baja California, mainland Sonora‐Arizona and Mojave Desert regions under an isolation‐with‐migration model to assess multiple scenarios of divergence. We also compared the results with a pre‐existing sequence data set of eight autosomal loci. We derived a population tree with Baja California placed at its base and link their isolation to Pleistocene climatic oscillations. Our estimates suggest the Baja California population diverged from an ancestral Mojave Desert/mainland Sonora‐Arizona group around 230 000–270 000 years ago, while the split between the Mojave Desert and mainland Sonora‐Arizona populations occurred one glacial cycle later, 117 000–135 000 years ago. Although we found these three populations to be effectively allopatric, model ranking could not rule out the possibility of a low level of gene flow between two of them. Finally, the Mojave Desert population showed a small effective population size, consistent with a historical population bottleneck. We show that model‐based inference from multiple loci can provide accurate information on the historical relationships of closely related groups allowing us to set into historical context a classic system of incipient ecological speciation.
Elucidation of the infection process of Ustilaginoidea virens (teleomorph: Villosiclava virens) in rice spikelets
Authors: Tang Y.‐X. , Jin J. , Hu D.‐W. , Yong M.‐L. , Xu Y. , He L.‐P.
Published: May 2012

This study reports an efficient inoculation protocol that allowed cytological analysis of the infection process of the rice false smut pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens. Examination of serial semithin and ultrathin sections of infected spikelets showed that the primary infection sites for the pathogen were the upper parts of the three stamen filaments located between the ovary and the lodicules. The stigma and lodicules were also occasionally infected to a limited extent. The pathogen infected the filaments intercellularly and extended intercellularly along the filament base. The host cells were degraded gradually. The pathogen did not penetrate host cell walls directly and did not form haustoria. In the balls the ovary remained alive and was never infected. This suggests that the pathogen is a biotrophic parasite that grows intercellularly in vivo.
Pleural effusion decreases left ventricular pre‐load and causes haemodynamic compromise: an experimental porcine study
Authors: WEMMELUND K. B. , LIE R. H. , JUHL‐OLSEN P. , FREDERIKSEN C. A. , HERMANSEN J. F. , SLOTH E.
Published: May 2012

Background

Although pleural effusion is a common complication in critically ill patients, detailed knowledge is missing about the haemodynamic impact and the underlining mechanisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the haemodynamic effect of incremental pleural effusion by means of invasive haemodynamic parameters and transthoracic echocardiography.

Methods

This experimental interventional study was conducted using 22 female piglets (17.5–21.5 kg) randomized for right‐side (n = 9) and left‐side (n = 9) pleural effusion, or sham operation (n = 4). Pleural effusion was induced by infusing incremental volumes of saline into the pleural cavity. Invasive haemodynamic measurements and echocardiographical images were obtained at baseline, a volume of 45 ml/kg, a volume of 75 ml/kg and 45 min after drainage.

Results

No difference (all P > 0.147) was found between right‐ and left‐side pleural effusion, and the groups were thus pooled. At 45 ml/kg cardiac output, mean arterial pressure, stroke volume and mixed venous saturation decreased (all P < 0.003); central venous pressure and pulmonary arterial pressure increased (both P > 0.003) at this point. The changes accelerated at 75 ml/kg. At 45 ml/kg left ventricular pre‐load in terms of end‐diastolic area decreased significantly (P < 0.001). The effect on haemodynamics and cardiac dimensions changed dramatically at 75 ml/kg. Cardiac output, mean arterial pressure, central venous pressure and left ventricular end‐diastolic area returned to normal during a recovery period of 45 min (all P > 0.061).

Conclusion

Incremental volumes of unilateral pleural effusion induced a significant haemodynamic impact fully reversible after drainage. Pleural effusion causes a significant decrease of left ventricular pre‐load in a diverse picture of haemodynamic compromise.
Emergency extracorporeal membrane oxygenation to treat massive aspiration during anaesthesia induction. A case report
Authors: WETSCH W. A. , SPÖHR F. A. , HINKELBEIN J. , PADOSCH S. A.
Published: May 2012

Since first described in 1946 by Mendelson, aspiration of gastric content resulting in severe pulmonary complications is a known hazard of general anaesthesia. We report on a case of massive aspiration of gastric content during induction of general anaesthesia, resulting in severe prolonged hypoxaemia with cardiac arrest, followed by rapid onset of an acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) associated with severe global respiratory insufficiency and severe hypoxia. ARDS was successfully treated using emergency extracorporeal membrane oxygenation within 3 h after the incident.
Isoflurane‐induced post‐conditioning in senescent hearts is attenuated by failure to activate reperfusion injury salvage kinase pathway
Authors: CHANG D. J. , CHANG C. H. , KIM J. S. , HONG Y. W. , LEE W. K. , SHIM Y. H.
Published: May 2012

Background

We investigated the cardioprotective effects of isoflurane administered at the onset of reperfusion in senescent rat in vivo, and the activation of the reperfusion injury salvage kinase (RISK) pathway to address a possible mechanism underlying age‐related differences.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were assigned to age groups (young, 3–5 months; old, 20–24 months), and randomly selected to receive isoflurane (1 minimum alveolar concentration) or not for 3 min before and 2 min after reperfusion (ISO postC). Rats were subjected to coronary occlusion for 30 min followed by 2 h of reperfusion. Western blot analysis was used to assess the phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK1/2), Akt, and GSK3β 15 min after reperfusion.

Results

Brief administration of isoflurane 3 min before and 2 min after the initiation of early reperfusion reduced infarct size (56 ± 8% of left ventricular area at risk, mean ± standard deviation) compared with controls (68 ± 4%) in young rats, but had no effect in old rats (56 ± 8% in ISO postC and 56 ± 10% in control, respectively). Phosphorylation of ERK1/2, Akt, and GSK3β were increased in the young ISO postC group but not in the old ISO postC group compared with control groups of the respective ages.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that isoflurane post‐conditions the heart in young but not in senescent rats. Failure to activate RISK pathway may contribute to attenuation of isoflurane‐induced post‐conditioning effect in senescent rats.
Infantile adenomyoma subclinically excreted into the patient's diaper
Authors: Anami Katsuhiro , Sentani Kazuhiro , Sakamoto Naoya , Uraoka Naohiro , Oue Naohide , Yasui Wataru
Published: May 2012

Adenomyoma is a rare condition of the gastrointestinal tract, consisting of glandular structures lined by columnar or cuboidal epithelium and surrounded by smooth muscle bundles. The vast majority of adenomyomas of gastrointestinal tract have been reported to be located at the propyloric segment of the stomach and their localization in the bowel of infantile patients is considered rare. A review of the literature showed that 13 cases of infantile adenomyoma in the bowel have been reported. In the previous cases, intussusception was the most common complication of adenomyoma in the bowel and all cases underwent laparotomy. Here we describe an extremely rare case of infantile adenomyoma subclinically eliminated in the diaper. In addition, we performed immunohistochemical analysis to speculate on the origin of the adenomyoma.
Predictors for postoperative renal function after open partial nephrectomy: Including postoperative biomarkers
Authors: Takagi Toshio , Kondo Tsunenori , Iizuka Junpei , Tomita Eri , Kobayashi Hirohito , Hashimoto Yasunobu , Tanabe Kazunari
Published: May 2012

Objectives:  To assess the predictors of postoperative renal insufficiency after open partial nephrectomy.

Methods:  A total of 195 patients who underwent open partial nephrectomy were the participants in this study. Patients with a decrease in the estimated glomerular filtration rate of >25% from baseline were evaluated on the basis of multiple factors including patient‐specific, surgical, tumor and postoperative factors. Postoperative estimated glomerular filtration rate data were recorded between 3 and 6 months after surgery.

Results:  Of the 195 patients, 18 (9%) had a decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate of >25%. Percentage of preserved renal parenchyma (P = 0.0078), nearness of tumor to renal sinus (P = 0.0108), location of tumor to middle part of kidney (P = 0.0112), postoperative highest lactase dehydrogenase (P < 0.0001), postoperative body temperature (P = 0.0314) and postoperative acute kidney injury (P < 0.0001) were significantly different between patients with a decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate of >25% and those with a decrease in estimated glomerular filtration rate ≤25% on univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that postoperative highest lactase dehydrogenase (P = 0.0408) and acute kidney injury (P = 0.0002) were independent predictors for decrease of estimated glomerular filtration rate >25%. In contrast, patient characteristic factors (chronic kidney disease stage), surgical factors (clamping time and PPRP) and tumor factors (radius, endophytic/exophytic, nearness and location component) were not significant predictors.

Conclusions:  Postoperative factors, lactase dehydrogenase and acute kidney injury, were strong predictors for renal insufficiency after open partial nephrectomy. Thus, a strict follow up is advisable in patients showing high postoperative levels of these two biomarkers.
Savanna burning, greenhouse gas emissions and indigenous livelihoods: Introducing the Tiwi Carbon Study
Authors: RICHARDS ANNA E. , ANDERSEN ALAN N. , SCHATZ JON , EAGER ROBERT , DAWES TRACY Z. , HADDEN KATE , SCHEEPERS KELLY , VAN DER GEEST MARIA
Published: May 2012

Savanna burning for greenhouse gas abatement presents an opportunity for remote Aboriginal communities of northern Australia to engage with the mainstream economy while fulfilling cultural obligations for land stewardship. The recently established Tiwi Carbon Study aims to identify the biophysical and economic potential of fire management for greenhouse gas abatement on the Tiwi Islands north of Darwin, as a basis for possible livelihood opportunities for the Aboriginal Tiwi people. Recent (2001–2010) fire history for the Tiwi Islands based on AVHRR satellite imagery shows that on average 35% (187 700 ha) of its savanna woodlands and open forests are burned every year, with 72% of burning occurring late in the dry season (August to November). Non‐CO2 greenhouse gas emissions from Tiwi fires average 68 000 t CO2‐e year−1 and we discuss scenarios for greenhouse gas abatement through management of these fires by Tiwi people, consistent with the savanna burning methodology approved under the Federal Government's Carbon Farming Initiative. Changed fire management scenarios produced emissions abatement of up to 46 000 t CO2‐e year−1, with highest savings under a change in both fire frequency and intensity. In addition to abatement of non‐CO2 emissions, fire management has the potential to alter rates of carbon sequestered in soil and vegetation. Current ecosystem C stocks (excluding roots) on the Tiwi Islands range from 60 to 160 t C ha−1. The Tiwi Carbon Study features a long‐term, landscape‐scale fire experiment for informing full carbon accounting in relation to different fire management options, and for understanding their implications for biodiversity. We discuss potential co‐benefits and trade‐offs of fire management for greenhouse gas emissions abatement in relation to biodiversity and Tiwi cultural requirements and livelihood aspirations.
Effect of the umbilical cord blood acid‐base status and gas values on the yield of mononuclear cells and CD34+ cells
Authors: Ebina Satoko , Omori Atsuko , Tarakida Ayako , Ogasawara Tomoka , Manabe Mami , Katagiri Sei‐ichi , Kashiwakura Ikuo
Published: May 2012

Aim:  To investigate the influence of umbilical cord blood (CB) acid‐base status and gas values on the yield of mononuclear cells and CD34+ cells, pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3‐ and base excess were measured in arterial CB samples obtained from normal full‐term deliveries. The relationship of these values with the yield of mononuclear cells and CD34+ cells detected in venous CB was analyzed.

Material and Methods:  A total of 145 CB units were collected from full‐term vaginal deliveries at a single hospital. Immediately after delivery, a segment of the umbilical cord was double clamped, and arterial CB was analyzed to determine the acid‐base status and gases. Venous CB was collected in a sterile collection bag and processed for cell separation within 24 h of collection. The relationship between umbilical arterial acid‐base status, each gas value, and the yield of mononuclear cells and CD34+ cells was analyzed.

Results:  Statistically significant correlations were observed between the net weight of CB and the total mononuclear and CD34+ cell counts. In addition, there was a negative correlation between the mononuclear cell counts and pH, but a positive correlation between the mononuclear cell counts and pCO2. However, no significant differences were observed between the primipara and multipara groups in terms of the net weight of CB, total mononuclear cell counts and total CD34+ cell counts.

Conclusion:  The findings of the present study show that the mononuclear cell counts are correlated with arterial CB pH and pCO2, suggesting the involvement of fetal hypoxia on the yield of mononuclear cells.
Genetic diversity within and genetic differentiation between blooms of a microalgal species
Authors: Lebret Karen , Kritzberg Emma S. , Figueroa Rosa , Rengefors Karin
Published: May 2012

The field of genetic diversity in protists, particularly phytoplankton, is under expansion. However, little is known regarding variation in genetic diversity within populations over time. The aim of our study was to investigate intrapopulation genetic diversity and genetic differentiation in the freshwater bloom‐forming microalga Gonyostomum semen (Raphidophyceae). The study covered a 2‐year period including all phases of the bloom. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) was used to determine the genetic structure and diversity of the population. Our results showed a significant differentiation between samples collected during the two blooms from consecutive years. Also, an increase of gene diversity and a loss of differentiation among sampling dates were observed over time within a single bloom. The latter observations may reflect the continuous germination of cysts from the sediment. The life cycle characteristics of G. semen, particularly reproduction and recruitment, most likely explain a high proportion of the observed variation. This study highlights the importance of the life cycle for the intraspecific genetic diversity of microbial species, which alternates between sexual and asexual reproduction.
THE IMPACT OF TAX REGIMES ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE PATTERNS
Authors: NICHOLSON MICHAEL W.
Published: May 2012

This paper discusses the trade implications of value‐added taxes (VATs) that refund domestic taxes paid by exporters of domestic production while imposing taxes on imports of foreign production. VATs are used by over 140 countries of the world, including every member of the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development except the United States. An investigation of the implications of border‐adjustable taxes on the U.S. trade balance suggests that VATs positively affect trade competitiveness but with differing impacts by sector. These results do not necessarily extend to the conclusion that a U.S. VAT would increase U.S. exports; such a prediction requires economic forecasting and appropriate simulations. The present results do imply that the adoption of VATs by other countries appears to have benefited U.S. trade. Panel data over 20 years, 29 industries, and 145 countries is used to conduct the analysis. (JEL F10, H20, K34)
Re‐Reading Time‐Geography from a Gender Perspective: Examples from Gendered mobility
Authors: Scholten Christina , Friberg Tora , Sandén Annika
Published: May 2012

This paper is based on qualitative research on commuting and women's everyday lives. In the project ‘Re‐reading time‐geography from a feminist perspective’, labour force mobility is an important way of analysing women's time‐space use and identifying the constraints experienced when organising everyday life. We claim that time‐geography provides a useful set of analytical tools that successfully collaborate with social science theory such as gender studies. Time‐geography has been questioned by feminists as well as others. However, we argue that time‐geography could provide gender studies with a close, empathic and micro‐levelled interventional approach that makes obstacles and constraints due to spatio‐temporal conditions visible and thereby changeable. In this paper we use results from previous research to prove that time‐geography is an approach with several sets of useful concepts that describe and analyse women's everyday struggles and possibilities in an era in which mobility and transport have become undisputed factors of everyday life. In order to do this, time‐geography needs to be read from a gendered standpoint. Although we are still in the formative stages of this re‐reading of original texts and the formation of additional sets of concepts, the indications are that this work is worth pursuing and expanding.
CONTEMPORARY DIGITAL DIVIDES IN THE UNITED STATES
Authors: WARF BARNEY
Published: May 2012

While cyberspace has become increasingly ubiquitous in American society, enormous class, ethnic, and spatial inequalities characterise access to the US internet. This paper summarises the country's digital divides in the early twenty first century. First it notes major market and policy forces that have led to the growth in internet access. Second, it addresses the changing social and spatial patterns of internet access between 1995 and 2010. Although penetration rates grew among all socio‐demographic categories, significant differences by age, income, ethnicity and educational level persist but not gender. Third, it points to the roles of public schools and libraries as mechanisms to alleviate the divide. Fourth, it examines differentials in broadband access as the most recent manifestation of internet inequality. Fifth, it comments on the mobile internet and urban ‘hotspots’. The conclusion points to public policy measures that could diminish discrepancies in access.
Access to mainstream health services: a case study of the difficulties faced by a child with learning disabilities
Authors: Brown Freddy Jackson , Cooper Kate , Diebel Tara
Published: May 2012

Accessible summary

People with learning disabilities need to visit the doctor like everyone else, but this is sometimes difficult.

This paper is about a boy who needed to have a blood test.

It took seven appointments and 15 weeks to take a blood sample.

This paper talks about ways that medical services could get better and change to help people with learning disabilities visit the doctor.

People with learning disabilities have higher levels of health needs compared with the general population (Nocon, 2006, Background evidence for the DRC's formal investigation into health inequalities experienced by people with learning disabilities or mental health problems. London and Manchester, Disability Rights Commission). Research has shown that these individuals receive less effective health care (Michael, 2008, Tizard Learn Disabil Rev, 13: 28) and has explored the challenges and barriers in accessing health services (Jackson Brown & Guvenir, 2009, Br J Learn Disabil, 37: 110). This case study describes the experience of a child with a severe learning disability and his family accessing mainstream health care for a simple medical procedure. Implications for how healthcare services can be organised to meet the needs of learning disabled people are discussed, addressing issues such as physical environment of surgeries and hospitals, communication between staff teams, staff skills and lack of preparedness.
Lysophosphatidic acid in atherosclerotic diseases
Authors: Schober Andreas , Siess Wolfgang
Published: May 2012

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a potent bioactive phospholipid. As many other biological active lipids, LPA is an autacoid: it is formed locally on demand, and it acts locally near its site of synthesis. LPA has a plethora of biological activities on blood cells (platelets, monocytes) and cells of the vessel wall (endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, macrophages) that are all key players in atherosclerotic and atherothrombotic processes. The specific cellular actions of LPA are determined by its multifaceted molecular structures, the expression of multiple G‐protein coupled LPA receptors at the cell surface and their diverse coupling to intracellular signalling pathways. Numerous studies have now shown that LPA has thrombogenic and atherogenic actions. Here, we aim to provide a comprehensive, yet concise, thoughtful and critical review of this exciting research area and to pinpoint potential pharmacological targets for inhibiting thrombogenic and atherogenic activities of LPA. We hope that the review will serve to accelerate knowledge of basic and clinical science, and to foster drug development in the field of LPA and atherosclerotic/atherothrombotic diseases.
Evaluating Perceptions of the Effectiveness of the Community Advisory Panel Model for Enhancing Service Delivery to Marginalized Populations
Authors: Ramsay Jason T. , Smith Peter , Thompson Alison , O'Campo Patricia , Nisenbaum Rosane , Watson Priya , Park‐Wylie Laura , Bryant Toba , Tandon Reena , Farah Mohammed
Published: May 2012

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate perceptions of the effectiveness of the Community Advisory Panels (CAPs) at St. Michael's Hospital, in Toronto, Canada.

Design and Sample

A qualitative design was employed. Participants included hospital staff, patients, Community Advisory Panel chairs, and key informants from community services in the St. Michael's Hospital catchment area.

Measures

An online survey about awareness of the CAPs and CAP accomplishments; (2) Key informants interviews; and (3) Review of memos and meeting minutes of the CAPs to assess their impact in the hospital and the community. St. Michael's Hospital was the setting of the study. Descriptive statistics were generated for the survey data. Qualitative interview data were coded for major themes. Participants included hospital staff, patients, CAP chairs, and key informants from community services in the St. Michael's Hospital catchment area.

Results

Although the CAPs initiated and implemented an array of programs and services at St. Michael's Hospital, the visibility of the CAPs and their service to the hospital and community were very low. Themes that emerged from the semistructured interviews involved the visibility, effectiveness, and role of the CAPs in the hospital.

Conclusions

Although the CAPs at St. Michael's Hospital appear to be an effective model for community responsiveness, the visibility of their work in the hospital and community was very low.
A Prospective Study of Outcomes of Nursing Home Residents with Chronic Kidney Disease with and without Anemia
Authors: Binder Ellen F. , White Heidi K. , Resnick Barbara , McClellan William M. , Lei Lei , Ouslander Joseph G.
Published: May 2012

Objectives

To determine whether anemia is a risk factor for functional decline in nursing home (NH) residents with chronic kidney disease.

Design

Prospective 26‐week observational study.

Setting

Eighty‐two geographically representative NHs in the United States.

Participants

Three hundred eleven NH residents with chronic kidney disease (CKD; estimated glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2) who had anemia (hemoglobin <12 g/dL for women, <13 g/dL for men, n = 177) or not (n = 134).

Measurements

The primary outcome was the distance walked or wheeled for 10 minutes. Secondary outcomes were single chair stand time, grip strength, leg extension strength, Dartmouth Primary Care Cooperative Information scores, Modified Barthel Index, falls, hospitalization, and mortality.

Results

Mixed‐effects model analysis of distance walked or wheeled showed that changes between weeks 2 and 14 but not between weeks 2 and 26 were significantly different between participants with CKD with anemia and those without anemia. There were no significant differences for the other physical performance or self‐report measures. After adjustment for an anemia propensity score, participants with CKD with anemia did not have higher rates of hospitalization or death at 26 weeks than those without anemia.

Conclusion

Nursing home residents with CKD and anemia experienced greater decline than those with CKD without anemia only for a mobility distance task over a 3‐month but not a 6‐month period and not for other performance or self‐report measures. Anemia may not increase the risk of functional decline in NH residents with CKD, but further research is necessary to confirm these findings and evaluate whether a lower hemoglobin cutpoint confers greater risk for functional decline in this population.