bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biharmonic distance
Authors: Lipman Yaron , Rustamov Raif M. , Funkhouser Thomas A.
Published: June 2010

Measuring distances between pairs of points on a 3D surface is a fundamental problem in computer graphics and geometric processing. For most applications, the important properties of a distance are that it is a metric, smooth, locally isotropic, globally “shape-aware,” isometry-invariant, insensitive to noise and small topology changes, parameter-free, and practical to compute on a discrete mesh. However, the basic methods currently popular in computer graphics (e.g., geodesic and diffusion distances) do not have these basic properties. In this article, we propose a new distance measure based on the biharmonic differential operator that has all the desired properties. This new surface distance is related to the diffusion and commute-time distances, but applies different (inverse squared) weighting to the eigenvalues of the Laplace-Beltrami operator, which provides a nice trade-off between nearly geodesic distances for small distances and global shape-awareness for large distances. The article provides theoretical and empirical analysis for a large number of meshes.
Identification of Phylogenetic Position in the Chlamydiaceae Family for Chlamydia Strains Released from Monkeys and Humans with Chlamydial Pathology
Authors: Karaulov Alexander , Aleshkin Vladimir , Slobodenyuk Vladimir , Grechishnikova Olga , Afanasyev Stanislav , Lapin Boris , Dzhikidze Eteri , Nesvizhsky Yuriy , Evsegneeva Irina , Voropayeva Elena , Afanasyev Maxim , Aleshkin Andrei , Metelskaya Valeria , Yegorova Ekaterina , Bayrakova Alexandra
Published: June 2010

Based on the results of the comparative analysis concerning relatedness and evolutional difference of the 16S–23S nucleotide sequences of the middle ribosomal cluster and 23S rRNA I domain, and based on identification of phylogenetic position for Chlamydophila pneumoniae and Chlamydia trichomatis strains released from monkeys, relatedness of the above stated isolates with similar strains released from humans and with strains having nucleotide sequences presented in the GenBank electronic database has been detected for the first time ever. Position of these isolates in the Chlamydiaceae family phylogenetic tree has been identified. The evolutional position of the investigated original Chlamydia and Chlamydophila strains close to analogous strains from the Gen-Bank electronic database has been demonstrated. Differences in the 16S–23S nucleotide sequence of the middle ribosomal cluster and 23S rRNA I domain of plasmid and nonplasmid Chlamydia trachomatis strains released from humans and monkeys relative to different genotype groups (group B-B, Ba, D, Da, E, L1, L2, L2a; intermediate group-F, G, Ga) have been revealed for the first time ever. Abnormality inincAchromosomal gene expression resulting in Chlamydia life development cycle disorder, and decrease of Chlamydia virulence can be related to probable changes in the nucleotide sequence of the gene under consideration
Dietary Karaya Saponin andRhodobacter capsulatusExert Hypocholesterolemic Effects by Suppression of Hepatic Cholesterol Synthesis and Promotion of Bile Acid Synthesis in Laying Hens
Authors: Afrose Sadia , Hossain Md. Sharoare , Salma Ummay , Miah Abdul Gaffar , Tsujii Hirotada
Published: June 2010

This study was conducted to elucidate the mechanism underlying the hypolipidemic action of karaya saponin orRhodobacter (R.) capsulatus. A total of 40 laying hens (20-week-old) were assigned into four dietary treatment groups and fed a basal diet (as a control) or basal diets supplemented with either karaya saponin,R. capsulatus, or both for 60 days. The level of serum low-density-lipoprotein cholesterol and the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the serum, liver, and egg yolk were reduced by all the supplementations (). Liver bile acid concentration and fecal concentrations of cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and bile acid were simultaneously increased by the supplementation of karaya saponin,R. capsulatus, and the combination of karaya saponin andR. capsulatus(). The supplementation of karaya saponin,R. capsulatus, and the combination of karaya saponin andR. capsulatussuppressed the incorporation of from -palmitic acid into the fractions of total lipids, phospholipids, triacylglycerol, and cholesterol in the liver in vitro (). These findings suggest that the hypocholesterolemic effects of karaya saponin andR. capsulatusare caused by the suppression of the cholesterol synthesis and the promotion of cholesterol catabolism in the liver.
Effect of VPAC1 Blockade on Adipose Tissue Formation and Composition in Mouse Models of Nutritionally Induced Obesity
Authors: Lijnen H. Roger , Freson Kathleen , Hoylaerts Marc F.
Published: June 2010

Background. The pituitary adenylate cyclase activating polypeptide (PACAP) may affect adipogenesis and adipose tissue formation through interaction with its G-protein-coupled receptor VPAC1.Methods. We have used a monoclonal antibody (MAb 23A11) blocking VPAC1 in mouse models of nutritionally induced obesity.Results. Administration of MAb 23A11 (25 mg/kg body weight i.p. twice weekly) to 5-week old male C57Bl/6 mice kept on a high-fat diet for 15 weeks had no significant effect on weight gain, nor on subcutaneous (SC) or gonadal (GON) adipose tissue mass, as compared to the control MAb 1C8. However, adipocyte hypertrophy was observed in SC adipose tissue of MAb 23A11 treated mice. In a second study, 24 weeks old obese mice were treated for 5 weeks with MAb 23A11, without effect on body weight or fat mass, as compared to treatment with MAb 1C8. In addition, MAb 23A11 had no significant effect on glucose tolerance or insulin resistance in lean or obese C57Bl/6 mice.Conclusion. Blocking VPAC1 does not significantly affect adipose tissue formation in mouse models of diet-induced obesity, although it may be associated with mild adipocyte hypertrophy.
Cell Density Plays a Critical Role in Ex Vivo Expansion of T Cells for Adoptive Immunotherapy
Authors: Ma Qiangzhong , Wang Yawen , Lo Agnes Shuk-Yee , Gomes Erica M. , Junghans Richard P.
Published: June 2010

The successful ex vivo expansion of a large numbers of T cells is a prerequisite for adoptive immunotherapy. In this study, we found that cell density had important effects on the process of expansion of T cells in vitro. Resting T cells were activated to expand at high cell density but failed to be activated at low cell density. Activated T cells (ATCs) expanded rapidly at high cell density but underwent apoptosis at low cell density. Our studies indicated that low-cell-density related ATC death is mediated by oxidative stress. Antioxidants N-acetylcysteine, catalase, and albumin suppressed elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in low-density cultures and protected ATCs from apoptosis. The viability of ATCs at low density was preserved by conditioned medium from high-density cultures of ATCs in which the autocrine survival factor was identified as catalase. We also found that costimulatory signal CD28 increases T cell activation at lower cell density, paralleled by an increase in catalase secretion. Our findings highlight the importance of cell density in T cell activation, proliferation, survival and apoptosis and support the importance of maintaining T cells at high density for their successful expansion in vitro.
Multiple-Locus Variable-Number Tandem Repeat Analysis ofVibrio choleraein Comparison with Pulsed Field Gel Electrophoresis and Virulotyping
Authors: Teh Cindy Shuan Ju , Chua Kek Heng , Thong Kwai Lin
Published: June 2010

Molecular analysis of MalaysianVibrio choleraewas carried out using a multiple-locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) assay based on 7 loci ofV. cholerae. The discriminatory ability of the assay was compared with pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) using 43 MalaysianV. choleraeisolated from various sources. In addition, the virulotypes of the strains were determined. Based on MLVA, 38 allelic profiles were obtained (F=0.63) while PFGE generated 35 pulsotypes (F=0.71). Simpson's index of diversity for different VNTR loci ranged from 0.59 to 0.92. The combined loci increased the discriminatory index to 0.99 which was comparable with PFGE (D=0.99). Most of the environmental non-O1/non-O139 strains harboredrtxA,rstR,toxR, andhlyA only, and the virulotype of this serogroup was significantly different (P<.01) from clinical/environmental O1 and environmental O139 strains. In conclusion, the MLVA assay developed in this study was a useful genotyping tool with comparable discriminatory power with PFGE. In addition, the combination of the two approaches can further distinguish the strains from different sources and geographical regions of isolation.
Effective Space Usage Estimation for Sliding‐Window Skybands
Authors: Chen Lijun , Zhao Jiakui , Huang Qun , Yang Liang Huai
Published: June 2010

Skyline query computes all the “best” elements which are not dominated by any other elements and thus is very important for decision‐making applications. Recently, it is generalized toskybandquery and ak‐skyband query returns those elements dominated by no more thank,of other elements. To incorporate the skyband operator into the stream engine for monitoring skybands over sliding windows, space usage estimation for skyband operator becomes a critical issue in the query optimizer. In this paper, we firstly introduce the skyband sketch as the cost model. Based on the cost model, we propose an approach for estimating the space usage of skyband operator over sliding windows of data streams under the assumptions of statistical independence across dimensions, no duplicate values over each dimension, and dimension domains totally ordered. Experiments verify that our approaches can estimate the space usage effectively over arbitrarily distributed data. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work that attempts to address the issue and proposes effective approaches to solve it.
A Need for Basic Research on Fluid-Based Early Detection Biomarkers
Authors: Martin Katherine J. , Fournier Marcia V. , Reddy G. Prem Veer , Pardee Arthur B.
Published: June 2010

Cancer continues to be a major cause of mortality despite decades of effort and expense. The problem reviewed here is that before many cancers are discovered they have already progressed to become drug resistant or metastatic. Biomarkers found in blood or other body fluids could supplement current clinical indicators to permit earlier detection and thereby reduce cancer mortality. Cancer Res; 70(13); 5203–6. ©2010 AACR.
Radiosensitization and Stromal Imaging Response Correlates for the HIF-1 Inhibitor PX-478 Given with or without Chemotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Schwartz David L. , Bankson James A. , Lemos Robert , Lai Stephen Y. , Thittai Arun K. , He Yi , Hostetter Galen , Demeure Michael J. , Von Hoff Daniel D. , Powis Garth
Published: June 2010

Growing tumors are hypoxic and respond to microenvironmental stress through increased expression of the hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) transcription factor, resulting in an adaptive switch to glycolytic metabolism, angiogenic signaling, survival, and metastasis. HIF-1α expression is associated with tumor resistance to cytotoxic therapy and inferior patient outcomes. Pancreatic cancer is the most hypoxic of all solid tumors and remains refractory to current chemoradiotherapy. We have seen nuclear HIF-1α in 88% of human pancreatic ductal carcinoma but in only 16% of normal pancreas. Stroma adjacent to the pancreatic ductal carcinoma also showed HIF-1α in 43% of cases. We investigated the novel selective HIF-1α inhibitor PX-478 on in vitro and in vivo radiation response of human pancreatic cancer models. Inhibition of HIF-1α by PX-478 increased cell killing by radiation. In mice with Panc-1, CF-PAC-1, or SU.86.86 pancreatic xenografts, concurrent administration of PX-478 potentiated the antitumor effects of fractionated radiation, with or without combined treatment with 5-fluorouracil or gemcitabine. Alternative sequencing of PX-478 with fractionated radiotherapy suggests optimal radiosensitization with concurrent or neoadjuvant administration of drug. Early tumor responses to combined PX-478/radiation treatment could be rapidly and repeatedly quantified by vascular imaging biomarkers. Dual-tracer dynamic contrast enhanced–magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound imaging discriminated response to combined treatment prior to detection of differences in anatomic tumor size at 10 days posttreatment. Therefore, PX-478 is a mechanistically appealing and potentially clinically relevant enhancer of pancreatic cancer radiosensitivity, inhibiting tumor and stromal HIF-1 proangiogenic signaling and reducing the innate radiation resistance of hypoxic tumor cells. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(7); 2057–67. ©2010 AACR.
Silencing of Integrated Human Papillomavirus-16 Oncogenes by Small Interfering RNA–Mediated Heterochromatization
Authors: Palanichamy Jayanth Kumar , Mehndiratta Mohit , Bhagat Mohita , Ramalingam Pradeep , Das Brati , Das Prerna , Sinha Subrata , Chattopadhyay Parthaprasad
Published: June 2010

Double-stranded RNAs or small interfering RNAs (siRNA) targeting the promoters of genes are known to cause gene knockdown by a process known as transcriptional gene silencing (TGS). We screened multiple siRNAs homologous to one of the NF-1 binding sites in the human papillomavirus-16 (HPV-16) enhancer and identified one siRNA which causes specific TGS of the HPV-16 oncogenes E6 and E7 when transfected into two HPV-16–positive cell lines siHa and CaSki. This phenomenon was specific to the HPV-16 enhancer with no effect on the HPV-18 enhancer. TGS was associated with heterochromatization of the targeted region of the enhancer but no DNA methylation was noted during the time period studied. The choice of target in the enhancer was important as siRNAs differing by one or two bases showed no suppression of downstream gene expression. A low copy number enhancer-associated transcript was detected in the cell lines studied and its level decreased significantly after treatment with the siRNA that caused TGS. This supports the RNA:RNA model described previously for TGS. This siRNA which causes simultaneous silencing of E6 as well as E7 oncogenes by an epigenetic mechanism might be useful as a therapeutic modality for HPV-16–positive cervical and other epithelial cancers. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(7); 2114–22. ©2010 AACR.
The Superparamagnetic Nanoparticles Carrying theE1AGene Enhance the Radiosensitivity of Human Cervical Carcinoma in Nude Mice
Authors: Shen Liang-Fang , Chen Jia , Zeng Shan , Zhou Rong-Rong , Zhu Hong , Zhong Mei-Zuo , Yao Ruo-Jing , Shen Hong
Published: June 2010

To explore the effects of early region 1A (E1A) carried by superparamagnetic dextran iron oxide nanoparticles (SDION) on the radiosensitivity of human cervical cancer. The xenograft mice with cervical cancer received weekly intratumoral SDION-E1A injection and a subsequent 50-Gy irradiation. The weekly relative tumor volume and the final tumor volume were compared among different experimental groups. p53 and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER-2)/Neu expression in final tumor tissue was detected by reverse transcription-PCR and Western blot. The relative tumor volume and the final tissue volume in the SDION-E1A group was significantly smaller than that in Sham and SDION-Vector groups at each time points after irradiation (P < 0.05). Exogenous E1A expression by SDION delivery significantly increased p53 expression, but inhibited HER-2/Neu expression in tumor tissue (P < 0.05). The intratumoral delivery of exogenous E1A carried by SDION increases p53 expression but inhibits HER-2/neu expression, and enhances the radiosensitivity of human cervical cancer in xenograft mice. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(7); 2123–30. ©2010 AACR.
The Convective Instability Pathway to Warm Season Drought in Texas. Part II: Free-Tropospheric Modulation of Convective Inhibition
Authors: Myoung Boksoon , Nielsen-Gammon John W.
Published: June 2010

This study is concerned with the modulation by convective instability of summertime precipitation in Texas as a mechanism for maintaining or enhancing drought. The important role of convective inhibition (CIN), its dependence on the temperature at 700 hPa and the surface dewpoint, and the mechanism by which soil moisture modulates precipitation through CIN were described in Part I of this two-part series study. This study, Part II, examines the dynamic and physical processes controlling the temperature at 700 hPa and elucidates the large-scale influences on convective instability and precipitation integrating the principal processes found in both Parts I and II.

Back-trajectory analysis indicates that a significant contributor to warming at 700 hPa is the inversion caused by warm air transport from the Rocky Mountains and the Mexican Plateau where the surface potential temperature is greater than 307.5 K, rather than by subsidence. It was found that downward motion and warm air transport are enhanced in Texas when an upper-level anticyclonic circulation develops in the southern United States.

Upper-level anticyclonic circulations in the southern United States, one of the distinctive features of central U.S. droughts, strongly affect Texas summertime precipitation by modulating the thermodynamic structure of the atmosphere and thus convective instability. Stationary anticyclonic anomalies increase CIN not only by enhancing warm air transport from the high terrain but also by suppressing the occurrence of traveling disturbances. The resulting reduced precipitation and dry soil significantly modulate surface conditions, which elevates CIN and decreases precipitation. The aforementioned chain reaction of upper-level anticyclone influences that is expected to play an important role in initiating and maintaining Texas summer droughts can be understood within the context of CIN.
Gelatinous Marrow Transformation and Hematopoietic Atrophy in a Miniature Horse Stallion
Authors: Beeler-Marfisi J. , Gallastegui Menoyo A. , Beck A. , König J. , Hewson J. , Bienzle D.
Published: June 2010

Gelatinous marrow transformation, or serous atrophy of bone marrow fat, has been noted in livestock, laboratory animals, and wildlife in association with an inadequate plane of nutrition, inanition, or intoxication. This is a report of gelatinous marrow transformation and hematopoietic marrow atrophy in a 5-year-old miniature horse stallion. The horse had oral malformations leading to poor food assimilation and emaciation. A bone marrow biopsy obtained to investigate persistent anemia and leukopenia showed hematopoietic atrophy and replacement of fat with a granular extracellular substance, which stained with alcian blue, consistent with acidic mucopolysaccharide content. Surgical correction of the dental abnormalities resulted in improved food assimilation, weight gain, and resolution of cytopenias. In humans, gelatinous bone marrow transformation and hematopoietic atrophy are commonly associated with malnutrition from anorexia nervosa and other causes. The cause of hematopoietic atrophy is unknown but may relate to a nonsupportive marrow microenvironment and inadequate hematopoietic substrate availability. Similar pathogenic mechanisms were suspected in this horse.
Spatial normalization improves the quality of genotype calling for Affymetrix SNP 6.0 arrays
Authors: Chai High Seng , Therneau Terry M , Bailey Kent R , Kocher Jean-Pierre A
Published: June 2010

Background

Microarray measurements are susceptible to a variety of experimental artifacts, some of which give rise to systematic biases that are spatially dependent in a unique way on each chip. It is likely that such artifacts affect many SNP arrays, but the normalization methods used in currently available genotyping algorithms make no attempt at spatial bias correction. Here, we propose an effective single-chip spatial bias removal procedure for Affymetrix 6.0 SNP arrays or platforms with similar design features. This procedure deals with both extreme and subtle biases and is intended to be applied before standard genotype calling algorithms.

Results

Application of the spatial bias adjustments on HapMap samples resulted in higher genotype call rates with equal or even better accuracy for thousands of SNPs. Consequently the normalization procedure is expected to lead to more meaningful biological inferences and could be valuable for genome-wide SNP analysis.

Conclusions

Spatial normalization can potentially rescue thousands of SNPs in a genetic study at the small cost of computational time. The approach is implemented in R and available from the authors upon request.
Treatment of reducible unstable fractures of the distal radius in adults: a randomised controlled trial of De Palma percutaneous pinning versus bridging external fixation
Authors: Belloti João C , Tamaoki Marcel JS , Atallah Alvaro N , Albertoni Walter M , dos Santos João BG , Faloppa Flavio
Published: June 2010

Background

At present, there is no conclusive evidence regarding the best treatment method for reducible unstable fractures of the distal radius. This study compared the effectiveness of two methods used in surgical treatment of such fractures: percutaneous pinning and external fixation.

Methods

We randomly allocated 100 patients into two groups treated surgically with modified De Palma percutaneous pinning and bridging external fixation. Independent but not blinded evaluators administered the DASH quality-of-life questionnaire at postoperative months 6 and 24, performed functional assessment of pain, range of motion, and palm grip strength, and radiographic examinations (volar and radial angle, and height of the radius) before the operation, immediately afterwards, and at 6 and 24 months postoperative. Modified De Palma percutaneous pinning patients used an above-elbow cast whereas external fixation group had unrestricted elbow motion after surgery. Patients who for any reason demonstrated treatment failure or required additional interventions were followed up and their results were included in the group into which these patients had initially been randomised according to the intention-to-treat principle. A significance level of 5% (alpha = 0.05). was used for all statistical tests, such that tests presenting a p-value less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

Ninety one (58.8 mean age and 66 participants were female) were included in the final assessment at 24 months. The DASH questionnaire evaluation showed a statistically significant result favouring the De Palma group (mean difference = -7.1 p = 0.044) after six months, but this was not maintained at 24 months. There were no statistically differences between the groups with respect to palm grip strength. Analysis of the range-of-motion limitation index (uninjured side minus affected side motion of) showed a statistical difference (mean difference = 2.4 p = 0.043) favoring the external fixator group with regard to the supination movement 6 months after the operation; however, this was not maintained at 24 months. The final results of the radiographic evaluation were similar for the two groups. Overall, five patients developed complications: two with De Palma pinning and three with external fixation.

Conclusion

There was a small statistically significant difference favouring the De Palma method in early functional at 6 months according to the DASH questionnaire, and for supination movement favouring the fixator group. However, both were not clinical relevant. By 24 months the groups were similar for all outcomes

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN04892785
Interactions of SARS Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Protein with the host cell proteasome subunit p42
Authors: Wang Qin , Li Chuan , Zhang Quanfu , Wang Tao , Li Jiandong , Guan Wuxiang , Yu Jianshi , Liang Mifang , Li Dexin
Published: June 2010

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) spreads rapidly and has a high case-mortality rate. The nucleocapsid protein (NP) of SARS-CoV may be critical for pathogenicity. This study sought to discover the host proteins that interact with SARS-CoV NP.

Results

Using surface plasmon resonance biomolecular interaction analysis (SPR/BIA) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry, we found that only the proteasome subunit p42 from human fetal lung diploid fibroblast (2BS) cells bound to SARS-CoV NP. This interaction was confirmed by the glutathione S-transferase (GST) fusion protein pulldown technique. The co-localization signal of SARS-CoV NP and proteasome subunit p42 in 2BS cells was detected using indirect immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy. p42 is a subunit of the 26S proteasome; this large, multi-protein complex is a component of the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, which is involved in a variety of basic cellular processes and inflammatory responses.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first report that SARS-CoV NP interacts with the proteasome subunit p42 within host cells. These data enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of SARS-CoV pathogenicity and the means by which SARS-CoV interacts with host cells.
A high-density Diversity Arrays Technology (DArT) microarray for genome-wide genotyping in Eucalyptus
Authors: Sansaloni Carolina P , Petroli César D , Carling Jason , Hudson Corey J , Steane Dorothy A , Myburg Alexander A , Grattapaglia Dario , Vaillancourt René E , Kilian Andrzej
Published: June 2010

Background

A number of molecular marker technologies have allowed important advances in the understanding of the genetics and evolution of Eucalyptus, a genus that includes over 700 species, some of which are used worldwide in plantation forestry. Nevertheless, the average marker density achieved with current technologies remains at the level of a few hundred markers per population. Furthermore, the transferability of markers produced with most existing technology across species and pedigrees is usually very limited. High throughput, combined with wide genome coverage and high transferability are necessary to increase the resolution, speed and utility of molecular marker technology in eucalypts. We report the development of a high-density DArT genome profiling resource and demonstrate its potential for genome-wide diversity analysis and linkage mapping in several species of Eucalyptus.

Findings

After testing several genome complexity reduction methods we identified the Pst I/Taq I method as the most effective for Eucalyptus and developed 18 genomic libraries from Pst I/Taq I representations of 64 different Eucalyptus species. A total of 23,808 cloned DNA fragments were screened and 13,300 (56%) were found to be polymorphic among 284 individuals. After a redundancy analysis, 6,528 markers were selected for the operational array and these were supplemented with 1,152 additional clones taken from a library made from the E. grandis tree whose genome has been sequenced. Performance validation for diversity studies revealed 4,752 polymorphic markers among 174 individuals. Additionally, 5,013 markers showed segregation when screened using six inter-specific mapping pedigrees, with an average of 2,211 polymorphic markers per pedigree and a minimum of 859 polymorphic markers that were shared between any two pedigrees.

Conclusions

This operational DArT array will deliver 1,000-2,000 polymorphic markers for linkage mapping in most eucalypt pedigrees and thus provide high genome coverage. This array will also provide a high-throughput platform for population genetics and phylogenetics in Eucalyptus. The transferability of DArT across species and pedigrees is particularly valuable for a large genus such as Eucalyptus and will facilitate the transfer of information between different studies. Furthermore, the DArT marker array will provide a high-resolution link between phenotypes in populations and the Eucalyptus reference genome, which will soon be completed.
German Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED): Reliability, Validity, and Cross-Informant Agreement in a Clinical Sample
Authors: Weitkamp Katharina , Romer Georg , Rosenthal Sandra , Wiegand-Grefe Silke , Daniels Judith
Published: June 2010

Background

The psychometric properties and cross-informant agreement of a German translation of the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) were assessed in a clinical sample

Methods

102 children and adolescents in outpatient psychotherapy and their parents filled out the SCARED and Youth Self Report/Child Behaviour Checklist (YSR/CBCL).

Results

The German SCARED showed good internal consistency for both parent and self-report version, and proved to be convergently and discriminantly valid when compared with YSR/CBCL scales. Cross-informant agreement was moderate with children reporting both a larger number as well as higher severity of anxiety symptoms than their parents.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the German SCARED is a valid and reliable anxiety scale and may be used in a clinical setting
A gene expression signature of RAS pathway dependence predicts response to PI3K and RAS pathway inhibitors and expands the population of RAS pathway activated tumors
Authors: Loboda Andrey , Nebozhyn Michael , Klinghoffer Rich , Frazier Jason , Chastain Michael , Arthur William , Roberts Brian , Zhang Theresa , Chenard Melissa , Haines Brian , Andersen Jannik , Nagashima Kumiko , Paweletz Cloud , Lynch Bethany , Feldman Igor , Dai Hongyue , Huang Pearl , Watters James
Published: June 2010

Background

Hyperactivation of the Ras signaling pathway is a driver of many cancers, and RAS pathway activation can predict response to targeted therapies. Therefore, optimal methods for measuring Ras pathway activation are critical. The main focus of our work was to develop a gene expression signature that is predictive of RAS pathway dependence.

Methods

We used the coherent expression of RAS pathway-related genes across multiple datasets to derive a RAS pathway gene expression signature and generate RAS pathway activation scores in pre-clinical cancer models and human tumors. We then related this signature to KRAS mutation status and drug response data in pre-clinical and clinical datasets.

Results

The RAS signature score is predictive of KRAS mutation status in lung tumors and cell lines with high (> 90%) sensitivity but relatively low (50%) specificity due to samples that have apparent RAS pathway activation in the absence of a KRAS mutation. In lung and breast cancer cell line panels, the RAS pathway signature score correlates with pMEK and pERK expression, and predicts resistance to AKT inhibition and sensitivity to MEK inhibition within both KRAS mutant and KRAS wild-type groups. The RAS pathway signature is upregulated in breast cancer cell lines that have acquired resistance to AKT inhibition, and is downregulated by inhibition of MEK. In lung cancer cell lines knockdown of KRAS using siRNA demonstrates that the RAS pathway signature is a better measure of dependence on RAS compared to KRAS mutation status. In human tumors, the RAS pathway signature is elevated in ER negative breast tumors and lung adenocarcinomas, and predicts resistance to cetuximab in metastatic colorectal cancer.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that the RAS pathway signature is superior to KRAS mutation status for the prediction of dependence on RAS signaling, can predict response to PI3K and RAS pathway inhibitors, and is likely to have the most clinical utility in lung and breast tumors.
A “Toll” for Th17 cell expansion
Authors: Davila Eduardo , Kolls Jay
Published: June 2010

TLR4 agonist LPS promotes the generation of Th17 cells in the small intestinal lamina propria.
Editorial: Leishmania survival mechanisms: the role of host phosphatases
Authors: Shio Marina Tiemi , Olivier Martin
Published: June 2010

Discussion on Leishmania and host phosphatase with regard to Das et al.
Addressing the sexual and reproductive health needs of women who use mental health services
Authors: Henshaw Carol , Protti Olivia
Published: June 2010

Pregnancies in women with serious mental illness are high risk and such women are also less likely to engage in the recommended health screening for women of reproductive age. Hence, reproductive health issues are important aspects of physical healthcare that should be assessed in women accessing mental health services. Pregnancy planning and management are crucial in reducing risk of relapse in women with affective disorders, and psychiatrists should acquaint themselves with the screening programmes and reproductive and sexual health services in their area and encourage their patients' uptake of these. Clinicians should be aware of the reproductive impact of medications and the needs of specific groups of women.
Compulsion in the community? The introduction of supervised community treatment
Authors: Brookes Guy , Brindle Nick
Published: June 2010

Supervised community treatment (SCT) is one of the most prominent amendments to the Mental Health Act 1983. It has divided opinion among health professionals and introduces significant powers not previously available in England and Wales. This article considers how SCT fits into the established legislative framework and how it may affect the care delivered by mental health practitioners.
Supervised community treatment: guidance for clinicians
Authors: Macpherson Rob , Molodynski Andrew , Freeth Rachel , Uppal Amjad , Steer Hannah , Buckle Dave , Jones Anne
Published: June 2010

This article describes the background to the introduction of supervised community treatment (SCT) in the 2007 amendments to the Mental Health Act 1983 for England and Wales. The evidence base for the use of SCT in the UK and in other countries to date is considered, and guidance from the literature regarding the decision to impose it is reviewed. Early local experience of SCT is described, in part through a number of fictitious vignettes. Finally, we present a set of guidelines which may be used by clinicians when considering SCT.
The supervised community treatment order and the Human Rights Act 1998
Authors: Khurmi Sanjay , Curtice Martin
Published: June 2010

The introduction of the supervised community treatment order (CTO) was a major and significant change to the Mental Health Act 1983 following the 2007 amendments to the Act. Owing to paternalistic aspects of psychiatry, such new legislation brings with it the potential to impinge on the human rights of patients. Any new legislation must be read and implemented to be compliant with the Human Rights Act 1998. Of all the articles comprising the Human Rights Act, Article 3 (the right to freedom from inhuman and degrading treatment), Article 5 (the right to liberty and security) and Article 8 (the right to respect for family and private life, home and correspondence) are of particular relevance to CTOs. We consider here the potential implications of the use of CTOs with regard to the Human Rights Act.
Cognitive–behavioural therapy for depression in people with a somatic disease: meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Beltman Matthijs W. , Voshaar Richard C. Oude , Speckens Anne E.
Published: June 2010

Background

Meta-analyses on psychological treatment for depression in individuals with a somatic disease are limited to specific underlying somatic diseases, thereby neglecting the generalisability of the interventions.

Aims

To examine the effectiveness of cognitive–behavioural therapy (CBT) for depression in people with a diversity of somatic diseases.

Method

Meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials evaluating CBT for depression in people with a somatic disease. Severity of depressive symptoms was pooled using the standardised mean difference (SMD).

Results

Twenty-nine papers met inclusion criteria. Cognitive–behavioural therapy was superior to control conditions with larger effects in studies restricted to participants with depressive disorder (SMD =–0.83, 95% CI –1.36 to –0.31, P<0.001) than in studies of participants with depressive symptoms (SMD =–0.16, 95% CI –0.27 to –0.06, P = 0.001). Subgroup analyses showed that CBT was not superior to other psychotherapies.

Conclusions

Cognitive–behavioural therapy significantly reduces depressive symptoms in people with a somatic disease, especially in those who meet the criteria for a depressive disorder.
Morbid risk for schizophrenia in first-degree relatives of people with frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Schoder Delphine , Hannequin Didier , Martinaud Olivier , Opolczynski Gaëlle , Guyant-Maréchal Lucie , Le Ber Isabelle , Campion Dominique
Published: June 2010

Background

Familial co-occurrence of frontotemporal dementia and schizophrenia has never been investigated.

Aims

To test the hypothesis that frontotemporal dementia and schizophrenia might have a common aetiology in some families in which both syndromes coexist (mixed families).

Method

The morbid risk for schizophrenia, calculated in first-degree relatives of 100 frontotemporal dementia probands, was compared with that calculated in first-degree relatives of 100 Alzheimer's disease probands. In mixed families, sequencing analysis of known frontotemporal dementia genes and detailed phenotype characterisation of individuals with frontotemporal dementia and schizophrenia were performed.

Results

The morbid risk for schizophrenia was significantly higher in relatives of frontotemporal dementia probands (1.35, s.e. = 0.45) than in relatives of Alzheimer's disease probands (0.32, s.e. = 0.22). Ten mixed families were characterised. In three of them a frontotemporal dementia causal mutation was identified that was present in individuals with schizophrenia. Several specific clinical features were noted in people with schizophrenia and frontotemporal dementia in mixed families.

Conclusions

Co-occurrence of schizophrenia and frontotemporal dementia could indicate, in some families, a common aetiology for both conditions.
Mental health literacy, folic acid and vitamin B12, and physical activity for the prevention of depression in older adults: randomised controlled trial
Authors: Walker Janine G. , Mackinnon Andrew J. , Batterham Philip , Jorm Anthony F. , Hickie Ian , McCarthy Affrica , Fenech Michael , Christensen Helen
Published: June 2010

Background

Few randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have examined potential preventive agents in high-risk community populations.

Aims

To determine whether a mental health literacy intervention, the promotion of physical activity, or folic acid plus vitamin B12reduce depression symptoms in community-dwelling older adults with elevated psychological distress.

Method

An RCT with a completely crossed 2 × 2 × 2 factorial design: (400 mcg/d folic acid + 100 mcg/d vitamin B12v.placebo)×(physical activityv.nutrition promotion control) × (mental health literacyv.pain information control). The initial target sample size was 2000; however, only 909 adults (60–74 years) met the study criteria. Interventions were delivered by mail with telephone calls. The main outcome was depressive symptoms on the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ–9) at 6 weeks, 6, 12 and 24 months. The Clinicaltrials.gov registration number is NCT00214682.

Results

The drop-out rate was low (13.5%) from randomisation to 24-month assessment. Neither folic acid + B12(F(3,856) = 0.83,P= 0.476) nor physical activity (F(3,856) = 1.65,P= 0.177) reduced depressive symptoms at any time point. At 6 weeks, depressive symptoms were lower for the mental health literacy intervention compared with its control condition (t(895) = 2.04,P= 0.042).

Conclusions

Mental health literacy had a transient effect on depressive symptoms. Other than this, none of the interventions significantly reduced symptoms relative to their comparator at 6 weeks or subsequently. Neither folic acid plus B12nor physical activity were effective in reducing depressive symptoms.
Experience of support time and recovery workers in promoting WRAP
Authors: Hill Laura , Roberts Glenn , Igbrude Wilson
Published: June 2010

Aims and method

Supporting self-management is a core ambition of progressive mental health services, but little is known about how to achieve this. Support time and recovery (STaR) workers are routinely taught the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP). This study explores their capacity to support self-management using WRAP.

Results

The audited STaR trainees had introduced an average of nine service users each to WRAP. There was a trend for those with personal experience of mental illness to introduce more clients to WRAP and even more so for those who had used WRAP themselves. Qualitative analysis suggested a range of factors that may mediate whether people engage with self-management or not.

Clinical implications

The capacity of STaR workers and others to support people in self-management may depend on more than knowledge of self-management methods and having personal experience of mental health problems and services. Important factors may also include specific experience of the methods introduced, ongoing training, accountability and supervision.
Comparison of the effectiveness of depot antipsychotics in routine clinical practice
Authors: Shajahan Polash , Spence Elizabeth , Taylor Mark , Daniel Darlington , Pelosi Anthony
Published: June 2010

Aims and method

To compare effectiveness of long-acting injections in schizophrenia and related psychoses in Lanarkshire, Scotland, from 2002 to 2008. We retrospectively assigned Clinical Global Impression (CGI) scores and examined discontinuation and hospitalisation rates.

Results

Risperidone, zuclopenthixol and flupentixol were associated with CGI improvement in 72-74% of individuals. Zuclopenthixol was associated with lower rates of discontinuation as a result of inefficacy compared with risperidone (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.11, 95% CI 0.05-0.27) and flupenthixol (HR = 0.14, 95% CI 0.05-0.39), and lower rates of hospitalisation compared with risperidone (HR = 0.32, 95% CI 0.17-0.56) and flupentixol (HR = 0.34, 95% CI 0.16-0.71). ‘Very much improved’ or ‘much improved’ on the CGI was seen in risperidone (29%), zuclopenthixol (16%) and flupentixol (37%), P<0.001.

Clinical implications

No long-acting injection was clearly superior in all our outcome measures, supporting the continued need for a variety of long-acting depot antipsychotics to optimise the treatment of the range of patients seen in clinical practice.
Steric Crowding Effect of 1,3-Diketonates on the Structures and the Solution Behaviors of Nickel(II) Mixed-Ligand Complexes
Authors: Arakawa-Itoh Machiko , Shibata Masayo , Linert Wolfgang , Fukuda Yutaka
Published: June 2010

Seven nickel(II) mixed-ligand complexes were synthesized: Ni(dike)(diam)X, where dike is a 1,3-diketonate such as 3,5-heptanedionate (dedk) or 2,6-dimethyl-3,5-heptanedionate (dmhd), diam is an N-alkylated ethylenediamine such as N,N,N′,N′-tetramethylethylenediamine (tmen) or 1,2-dipiperidinoethane (dipe), and X is BPh4− or NO3−. The crystal structures were analyzed: each nitrate complex has a six-coordinated octahedral structure with a bidentate-coordinated nitrate, and each tetraphenylborate complex has a four-coordinated square-planar structure. The ligand field strength of [Ni(dike)(diam)]BPh4 in the solid state increases in the order: [Ni(dmhd)(dipe)]BPh4 < [Ni(dedk)(dipe)]BPh4 < [Ni(dmhd)(tmen)]BPh4 = [Ni(dedk)(tmen)]BPh4. In solution, the change of the color depending on the donor/acceptor ability of the solvent, i.e., solvatochromism was observed. When dimethyl sulfoxide was added to a solution of [Ni(dike)(diam)]BPh4 in inert 1,2-dichloroethane, the adduct formation constants are in the order: [Ni(dmhd)(dipe)]BPh4 < [Ni(dedk)(dipe)]BPh4 << [Ni(dmhd)(tmen)]BPh4 = [Ni(dedk)(tmen)]BPh4, reflecting the difference in steric hindrance of the ligands rather than the difference in ligand field strength. The steric crowding effect of 1,3-diketonates was observed in the solid state and solution when bulky dipe is used as diamine.
The prevalence and radiological findings in 1347 elderly patients with scoliosis
Authors: Hong J. Y. , Suh S. W. , Modi H. N. , Hur C. Y. , Song H. R. , Park J. H.
Published: June 2010

In order to determine the epidemiology of adult scoliosis in the elderly and to analyse the radiological parameters and symptoms related to adult scoliosis, we carried out a prospective cross-sectional radiological study on 1347 adult volunteers. There were 615 men and 732 women with a mean age of 73.3 years (60 to 94), and a mean Cobb angle of 7.55° (sd 5.95).

In our study, 478 subjects met the definition of scoliosis (Cobb angle ≥10°) showing a prevalence of 35.5%. There was a significant difference in the epidemiological distribution and prevalence between the age and gender groups. The older adults showed a larger prevalence and more severe scoliosis, more prominent in women (p = 0.004). Women were more affected by adult scoliosis and showed more linear correlation with age (p < 0.001). Symptoms were more severe in those with scoliosis than in the normal group, but were similar between the mild, moderate and severe scoliosis groups (p = 0.224) and between men and women (p = 0.231).

Adult scoliosis showed a significant relationship with lateral listhesis, vertebral rotation, lumbar hypolordosis, sagittal imbalance and a high level of the L4–5 disc (p < 0.0001, p < 0.0001, p = 0.002, p = 0.002, p < 0.0001 respectively). Lateral listhesis, lumbar hypolordosis and sagittal imbalance were related to symptoms (p < 0.0001, p = 0.001, p < 0.0001 respectively).
Injury to the proximal deep medial collateral ligament
Authors: Narvani A. , Mahmud T. , Lavelle J. , Williams A.
Published: June 2010

Most injuries to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) heal well after conservative treatment. We have identified a subgroup of injuries to the deep portion of the MCL which is refractory to conservative treatment and causes persistant symptoms. They usually occur in high-level football players and may require surgical repair.

We describe a consecutive series of 17 men with a mean age of 29 years (18 to 44) who were all engaged in high levels of sport. Following a minor injury to the MCL there was persistent tenderness at the site of the proximal attachment of the deep MCL. It could be precipitated by rapid external rotation at the knee by clinical testing or during sport. The mean time from injury to presentation was 23.6 weeks (10 to 79) and none of the patients had responded to conservative treatment. The surgical finding was a failure of healing of a tear of the deep MCL at its femoral origin which could be repaired. After a period of postoperative protective bracing and subsequent rehabilitation the outcome was good. All the patients returned to their sports and remained asymptomatic at a mean of 48 weeks (28 to 60) post-operatively.

Recognition of this subgroup is important since the clinical features, the course of recovery and surgical requirement differ from those of most injuries to the MCL.
Resurfacing arthroplasty of the hip for avascular necrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Bose V. C. , Baruah B. D.
Published: June 2010

We performed 96 Birmingham resurfacing arthroplasties of the hip in 71 consecutive patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head. A modified neck-capsule-preserving approach was used which is described in detail. The University of California, Los Angeles outcome score, the radiological parameters and survival rates were assessed. The mean follow-up was for 5.4 years (4.0 to 8.1). All the patients remained active with a mean University of California, Los Angeles activity score of 6.86 (6 to 9). Three hips failed, giving a cumulative survival rate of 95.4%. With failure of the femoral component as the endpoint, the cumulative survival rate was 98.0%. We also describe the combined abduction-valgus angle of the bearing couple, which is the sum of the inclination angle of the acetabular component and the stem-shaft angle, as an index of the optimum positioning of the components in the coronal plane.

Using a modified surgical technique, it is possible to preserve the femoral head in avascular necrosis by performing hip resurfacing in patients with good results.