bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crafting Trust
Authors: Freitag Markus , Bühlmann Marc
Published: March 2009

In this article, the authors evaluate the origins of generalized trust. In addition to examining individual-level determinants, the analytic focus is on the political-institutional context. In contrast to most of the analyses to date, the authors conduct hierarchical analyses of the World Values Surveys (1995-1997 and 1999-2001) to simultaneously test for differences among respondents in 58 countries and for variations in levels of trust between countries with different institutional configurations. In addition, the authors extend the institutional theory of trust by introducing the power-sharing quality of institutions—a rather neglected institutional dimension hitherto. With regard to the most important contextual factors, the authors find that countries whose authorities are seen as incorruptible, whose institutions of the welfare state reduce income disparities, and whose political interests are represented in a manner proportional to their weight have citizens who are more likely to place trust in one another.
Does Expressing Your Emotions Raise or Lower Your Blood Pressure?
Authors: Butler Emily A. , Lee Tiane L. , Gross James J.
Published: March 2009

Emotion-expressive behavior is often but not always inversely related to physiological responding. To test the hypothesis that cultural context moderates the relationship between expressivity and physiological responding, the authors have Asian American and European American women engage in face-to-face conversations about a distressing film in same-ethnicity dyads. Blood pressure is measured continuously, and emotional expressivity is rated from reviewing videotapes. Results indicate that emotion-expressive behavior is inversely related to blood pressure in European American dyads, but the reverse was true in Asian American dyads in which there is a trend toward a positive association. These results suggest that the links between emotion-expressive behavior and physiological responding may depend on cultural context. One possible explanation for this effect may be that cultural contexts shape the meaning that individuals give to emotional expressions that occur during social interactions.
Effects of a Liquid Diet on Temporomandibular Joint Mechano-receptors
Authors: Ishida T. , Yabushita T. , Soma K.
Published: March 2009

Load during mastication is an important factor for the development and maintenance of mechano- receptor properties. The purpose of this study was to examine property changes in the rat TMJ mechano-receptors under conditions of liquid diet feeding and low articular load during the growth period. The hypothesis was that alterations in mastication of liquid diet might increase TMJ mechano-receptor sensitivity. Sixty-six two-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: a control group that was fed on whole pellets, and an experimental group that was fed a liquid diet. Electrophysiological recordings from the TMJ units were obtained from the trigeminal ganglion when the rats were 5, 7, and 9 weeks old. In the experimental group, TMJ mechanoreceptor sensitivity increased, because the firing threshold gradually decreased and the maximum instantaneous frequency gradually increased. In conclusion, functional properties of TMJ mechano-receptors under low articular loading conditions cannot mature normally within the growth period.
EDA Gene Mutations Underlie Non-syndromic Oligodontia
Authors: Song S. , Han D. , Qu H. , Gong Y. , Wu H. , Zhang X. , Zhong N. , Feng H.
Published: March 2009

Recent studies have detected mutations in the EDA gene, previously identified as causing X-linked hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia (XLHED), in two families with X-linked non-syndromic hypodontia. Notably, all affected males in both families exhibited isolated oligodontia, while almost all female carriers showed a milder or normal phenotype. We hypothesized that the EDA gene could be responsible for sporadic non-syndromic oligodontia in affected males. In this study, we examined 15 unrelated males with non-syndromic oligodontia. Three novel EDA mutations (p.Ala259Glu, p. Arg289Cys, and p.Arg334His) were identified in four individuals (27%). A genetic defect in the EDA gene could result in non-syndromic oligodontia in affected males.
Transglutaminase-2 Regulation by Arecoline in Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: Thangjam G.S. , Agarwal P. , Khan I. , Verma U.P. , Balapure A.K. , Rao S.G. , Kondaiah P.
Published: March 2009

Transglutaminase-2 (TGM-2) stabilizes extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins by cross-linking and has been implicated in several fibrotic disorders. Arecoline present in betel quid has been proposed as one of the causative factors for oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). Hence, we hypothesize that arecoline may regulate TGM-2 and may have a role in the pathogenesis of OSMF. The expression of TGM-2 was studied in OSMF tissues by real-time RT-PCR analysis, and significant overexpression was observed in most OSMF tissues (P = 0.0112) compared with normal tissues. Arecoline induced TGM-2 mRNA and protein expression as well as TGM-2 activity in human gingival fibroblast cells. The addition of methocramine hemihydrate (M-2 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor selective antagonist) or 8′-bromo-cAMP abolished arecoline-mediated TGM-2 induction, suggesting a role for M-2 muscarinic acid receptor and a repressor role for cAMP. Our study provides evidence for TGM-2 overexpression in OSMF and its regulation by arecoline in oral fibroblasts.
The Role of Multidimensional Attentional Abilities in Academic Skills of Children With ADHD
Authors: Preston Andrew S. , Heaton Shelley C. , McCann Sarah J. , Watson William D. , Selke Gregg
Published: March 2009

Despite reports of academic difficulties in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), little is known about the relationship between performance on tests of academic achievement and measures of attention. The current study assessed intellectual ability, parent-reported inattention, academic achievement, and attention in 45 children (ages 7—15) diagnosed with ADHD. Hierarchical regressions were performed with selective, sustained, and attentional control/switching domains of the Test of Everyday Attention for Children as predictor variables and with performance on the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test—Second Edition as dependent variables. It was hypothesized that sustained attention and attentional control/switching would predict performance on achievement tests. Results demonstrate that attentional control/ switching accounted for a significant amount of variance in all academic areas (reading, math, and spelling), even after accounting for verbal IQ and parent-reported inattention. Sustained attention predicted variance only in math, whereas selective attention did not account for variance in any achievement domain. Therefore, attentional control/switching, which involves components of executive functions, plays an important role in academic performance.
The Importance of Relying on the Manual
Authors: Erdodi Laszlo A. , Richard David C. S. , Hopwood Christopher
Published: March 2009

Classical test theory assumes that ability level has no effect on measurement error. Newer test theories, however, argue that the precision of a measurement instrument changes as a function of the examinee’s true score. Research has shown that administration errors are common in the Wechsler scales and that subtests requiring subjective scoring are the most prone to errors. In this study, graduate students scored fictitious Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children— Fourth Edition Vocabulary subtests that were constructed to yield actual scaled scores of 4, 10 and 16. Results support the conditional error variance hypothesis: Participants made significantly more scoring errors in the low and high ability conditions than they did in the average ability condition. Implications of these findings with regard to the interpretation of extreme scores are discussed.
Critical Illness Polyneuromyopathy in a Child with Severe Demyelinating Myelitis
Authors: Adamovic Tanja , Willems Ariane , Vanasse Michel , D'Anjou Guy , Robitaille Yves , Litalien Catherine , Gauvin France
Published: March 2009

We report a child presenting with severe demyelinating myelitis complicated with critical illness polyneuropathy. This previously healthy 8-month-old boy presented with acute superior limb weakness, absent tendon reflexes, and respiratory failure. Spinal magnetic resonance imaging showed an extensive cervical demyelinating lesion. Spinal cord trauma was suspected and high doses of dexamethasone were administered. Electromyography and nerve conduction studies showed absence of compound muscle action potentials and sural nerve sensory action potential, which was suggestive of a severe Guillain-Barré syndrome. However, intravenous immunoglobulins did not induce any improvement. Afterward, sural nerve biopsy showed a mild neuropathy, but muscle biopsy revealed abnormalities compatible with severe critical illness myopathy. After 5 months of evolution without improvement, the patient died following withdrawal of life support therapy. This case highlights the possible occurrence of critical illness polyneuromyopathy when treatment with corticosteroids are used in patients with acute demyelinating myelitis.
`Defend Lanka Your Home': War on the Home Front in Ceylon, 1939—1945
Authors: Jackson Ashley
Published: March 2009

In December 1941, Ceylon was transformed from a backwater into a key Allied military base when Japan went to war, though its wartime significance is largely unknown. The nature of the changes visited upon the island, and the manner in which an apparently insignificant colonial home front contributed tellingly to the strategic prosecution of the war, is the subject of this article. Several key themes are examined: the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean and Ceylon; the transformation of Ceylon's physical infrastructure as it became a military encampment; the work of Ceylonese-led departments of state in bringing the island to war readiness; the dire food situation caused by the Japanese conquest of import-supplying countries; propaganda and public information drives aimed at ensuring local participation in the war effort; the recruitment of indigenous labour for war-related tasks; unrest caused by the influx of thousands of foreign soldiers and provisions made for their welfare; and the role played by the media in conveying war information and propaganda. The article concludes with an assessment of the intimate links between Ceylon's war experience and the coming of national independence in 1948.
The Role of Ribbons at Sensory Synapses
Authors: LoGiudice Lisamarie , Matthews Gary
Published: March 2009

Synaptic ribbons are organelles that tether vesicles at the presynaptic active zones of sensory neurons in the visual, auditory, and vestibular systems. These neurons generate sustained, graded electrical signals in response to sensory stimuli, and fidelity of transmission therefore requires their synapses to release neurotransmitter continuously at high rates. It has long been thought that the ribbons at the active zones of sensory synapses accomplish this task by enhancing the size and accessibility of the readily releasable pool of synaptic vesicles, which may represent the vesicles attached to the ribbon. Recent evidence suggests that synaptic ribbons immobilize vesicles in the resting cell and coordinate the transient, synchronous release of vesicles in response to stimulation, but it is not yet clear how the ribbon can efficiently mobilize and coordinate multiple vesicles for release. However, detailed anatomical, electrophysiological, and optical studies have begun to reveal the mechanics of release at ribbon synapses, and this multidisciplinary approach promises to reconcile structure, function, and mechanism at these important sensory synapses.
Emergency Preparedness From the Ground Floor Up
Authors: Hendriks Leah , Bassi Sherry
Published: March 2009

Since the aftermath of September 11, 2001, both man-made and natural events have devastated communities in the United States and around the globe. As a result, individual communities now more than ever recognize the need for emergency and disaster planning. Local community-based home care agencies both large and small must be involved in comprehensive planning—anticipating the next event. The purpose of this article is to describe the yearlong preparation of a local Visiting Nurse Association as they committed to vigorous professional development and subsequently developed the necessary protocols for their own agency. This project was conceived by the authors to serve as an independent study for academic credit for the author enrolled in a RN-MS program and to address an important goal of the home care agency's strategic plan.
Biologic sequelae of IκB kinase (IKK) inhibition in multiple myeloma: therapeutic implications
Authors: Hideshima Teru , Chauhan Dharminder , Kiziltepe Tanyel , Ikeda Hiroshi , Okawa Yutaka , Podar Klaus , Raje Noopur , Protopopov Alexei , Munshi Nikhil C. , Richardson Paul G. , Carrasco Ruben D. , Anderson Kenneth C.
Published: March 2009

Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) has an important role in multiple myeloma (MM) cell pathogenesis in the context of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment. In NF-κB signaling cascades, IκB kinase α (IKKα) and IKKβ are key molecules that predominantly mediate noncanonical and canonical pathways, respectively. In this study, we examined the biologic sequelae of the inhibition of IKKα versus IKKβ in MM cell lines. All MM cell lines have constitutive canonical NF-κB activity, and a subset of MM cell lines shows noncanonical NF-κB activity. Adhesion to BM stromal cells further activates both canonical and noncanonical NF-κB activity. IKKβ inhibitor MLN120B blocks canonical pathway and growth of MM cell lines but does not inhibit the noncanonical NF-κB pathway. Although IKKα knockdown induces significant growth inhibition in the cell lines with both canonical and noncanonical pathways, it does not inhibit NF-κB activation. Importantly, IKKα down-regulation decreases expression of β-catenin and aurora-A, which are known to mediate MM cell growth and survival. Finally, IKKβ inhibitor enhances the growth inhibition triggered by IKKα down-regulation in MM cells with both canonical and noncanonical NF-κB activity. Combination therapy targeting these kinases therefore represents a promising treatment strategy in MM.
CNTO 530 functions as a potent EPO mimetic via unique sustained effects on bone marrow proerythroblast pools
Authors: Sathyanarayana Pradeep , Houde Estelle , Marshall Deborah , Volk Amy , Makropoulos Dorie , Emerson Christine , Pradeep Anamika , Bugelski Peter J. , Wojchowski Don M.
Published: March 2009

Anemia as associated with numerous clinical conditions can be debilitating, but frequently can be treated via administration of epoetin-alfa, darbepoietin-alfa, or methoxy-PEG epoetin-beta. Despite the complexity of EPO-EPO receptor interactions, the development of interesting EPO mimetic peptides (EMPs) also has been possible. CNTO 530 is one such novel MIMETIBODY Fc-domain dimeric EMP fusion protein. In a mouse model, single-dose CNTO 530 (unlike epoetin-alfa or darbepoietin-alfa) bolstered red cell production for up to 1 month. In 5-fluorouracil and carboplatin-paclitaxel models, CNTO 530 also protected against anemia with unique efficiency. These actions were not fully accounted for by half-life estimates, and CNTO 530 signaling events therefore were studied. Within primary bone marrow erythroblasts, kinetics of STAT5, ERK, and AKT activation were similar for CNTO 530 and epoetin-alfa. p70S6K activation by CNTO 530, however, was selectively sustained. In vivo, CNTO 530 uniquely stimulated the enhanced formation of PODXLhighCD71high (pro)erythroblasts at frequencies multifold above epoetin-alfa or darbepoietin-alfa. CNTO 530 moreover supported the sustained expansion of a bone marrow–resident KitnegCD71highTer119neg progenitor pool. Based on these distinct erythropoietic and EPOR signaling properties, CNTO 530 holds excellent promise as a new EPO mimetic.
Risk factors for lymphoproliferative disorders after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Landgren Ola , Gilbert Ethel S. , Rizzo J. Douglas , Socié Gérard , Banks Peter M. , Sobocinski Kathleen A. , Horowitz Mary M. , Jaffe Elaine S. , Kingma Douglas W. , Travis Lois B. , Flowers Mary E. , Martin Paul J. , Deeg H. Joachim , Curtis Rochelle E.
Published: March 2009

We evaluated 26 901 patients who underwent allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) at 271 centers worldwide to define patterns of posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLDs). PTLDs developed in 127 recipients, with 105 (83%) cases occurring within 1 year after transplantation. In multivariate analyses, we confirmed that PTLD risks were strongly associated (P < .001) with T-cell depletion of the donor marrow, antithymocyte globulin (ATG) use, and unrelated or HLA-mismatched grafts (URD/HLA mismatch). Significant associations were also confirmed for acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease. The increased risk associated with URD/HLA-mismatched donors (RR = 3.8) was limited to patients with T-cell depletion or ATG use (P = .004). New findings were elevated risks for age 50 years or older at transplantation (RR = 5.1; P < .001) and second transplantation (RR = 3.5; P < .001). Lower risks were found for T-cell depletion methods that remove both T and B cells (alemtuzumab and elutriation, RR = 3.1; P = .025) compared with other methods (RR = 9.4; P = .005 for difference). The cumulative incidence of PTLDs was low (0.2%) among 21 686 patients with no major risk factors, but increased to 1.1%, 3.6%, and 8.1% with 1, 2, and more than 3 major risk factors, respectively. Our findings identify subgroups of patients who underwent allogeneic HCT at elevated risk of PTLDs for whom prospective monitoring of Epstein-Barr virus activation and early treatment intervention may be particularly beneficial.
Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy after rituximab therapy in HIV-negative patients: a report of 57 cases from the Research on Adverse Drug Events and Reports project
Authors: Carson Kenneth R. , Evens Andrew M. , Richey Elizabeth A. , Habermann Thomas M. , Focosi Daniele , Seymour John F. , Laubach Jacob , Bawn Susie D. , Gordon Leo I. , Winter Jane N. , Furman Richard R. , Vose Julie M. , Zelenetz Andrew D. , Mamtani Ronac , Raisch Dennis W. , Dorshimer Gary W. , Rosen Steven T. , Muro Kenji , Gottardi-Littell Numa R. , Talley Robert L. , Sartor Oliver , Green David , Major Eugene O. , Bennett Charles L.
Published: March 2009

Rituximab improves outcomes for persons with lymphoproliferative disorders and is increasingly used to treat immune-mediated illnesses. Recent reports describe 2 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus and 1 with rheumatoid arthritis who developed progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) after rituximab treatment. We reviewed PML case descriptions among patients treated with rituximab from the Food and Drug Administration, the manufacturer, physicians, and a literature review from 1997 to 2008. Overall, 52 patients with lymphoproliferative disorders, 2 patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, 1 patient with rheumatoid arthritis, 1 patient with an idiopathic autoimmune pancytopenia, and 1 patient with immune thrombocytopenia developed PML after treatment with rituximab and other agents. Other treatments included hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (7 patients), purine analogs (26 patients), or alkylating agents (39 patients). One patient with an autoimmune hemolytic anemia developed PML after treatment with corticosteroids and rituximab, and 1 patient with an autoimmune pancytopenia developed PML after treatment with corticosteroids, azathioprine, and rituximab. Median time from last rituximab dose to PML diagnosis was 5.5 months. Median time to death after PML diagnosis was 2.0 months. The case-fatality rate was 90%. Awareness is needed of the potential for PML among rituximab-treated persons.
HAC stability in murine cells is influenced by nuclear localization and chromatin organization
Authors: Moralli Daniela , Chan David YL , Jefferson Andrew , Volpi Emanuela V , Monaco Zoia L
Published: March 2009

Background

Human artificial chromosomes (HAC) are small functional extrachromosomal elements, which segregate correctly during each cell division. In human cells, they are mitotically stable, however when the HAC are transferred to murine cells they show an increased and variable rate of loss. In some cell lines the HAC are lost over a short period of time, while in others the HAC become stable without acquiring murine DNA.

Results

In this study, we linked the loss rate to the position of the HAC in the murine cell nucleus with respect to the chromocenters. HAC that associated preferentially with the chromocenter displayed a lower loss rate compared to the HAC that are less frequently associated. The chromocenter acts as a hub for the deposition of heterochromatic markers, controlling centromeric and pericentromeric DNA replication timing and chromosome segregation. The HAC which localized more frequently outside the chromocenters bound variable amounts of histone H3 tri-methylated at lysine 9, and the high level of intraclonal variability was associated with an increase in HAC segregation errors and delayed DNA replication timing.

Conclusion

This is a novel result indicating that HAC segregation is closely linked to the position in the murine nucleus and gives important insight for HAC gene expression studies in murine cells and establishing murine models of human genetic disease.
Genetic evaluation of relationship between mutations in rpoB and resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis to rifampin
Authors: Zaczek Anna , Brzostek Anna , Augustynowicz-Kopec Ewa , Zwolska Zofia , Dziadek Jaroslaw
Published: March 2009

Background

Rifampin is a first line antituberculosis drug active against bacilli in logarithmic and stationary phase, which interferes with RNA synthesis by binding to bacterial RNA polymerase. Tubercle bacilli achieve resistance to rifampin by accumulation of mutations in a short-81 bp region of therpoBgene. Among many mutations identified in therpoB gene, few were verified by molecular genetic methods as responsible for resistance to rifampin (RMP).

Results

In this study eight different mutations identified in an 81 bp section of a "hot spot" region of therpoB gene of RMP resistantMycobacterium tuberculosisclinical strains were evaluated in respect to drug resistance. It was found that: mutations in positions 526 (H/D), 516 (D/V) and 531 (S/L) result in high level resistance to rifampin; mutations in positions 516 (D/Y), 515 (M/I), 510 (Q/H) or a double mutation in codons 512 (S/I) and 516 (D/G) relate to low level of resistance. GenerpoB carrying mutations in codon 513 (Q/L) introduced into anM. tuberculosislaboratory strain did not cause resistance to rifampin, however the same gene introduced into two different clinical strains did, with the level of resistance depending on the host strain.

Conclusion

Mutations in an 81 bp "hot spot" region of therpoBofM. tuberculosislead to different levels of resistance to rifampin. Some mutations in this "hot spot" region ofrpoBrequire a specific genetic background for the host strain to develop resistance to rifampin. Therefore, the identification of such mutations in a clinicalM. tuberculosisstrain is not enough to classify the given strain as resistant to rifampin.
Matrix metalloproteinase-7 facilitates immune access to the CNS in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Buhler Lillian A , Samara Ramsey , Guzman Esther , Wilson Carole L , Krizanac-Bengez Liljana , Janigro Damir , Ethell Douglas W
Published: March 2009

Background

Metalloproteinase inhibitors can protect mice against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for multiple sclerosis (MS). Matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) has been implicated, but it is not clear if other MMPs are also involved, including matrilysin/MMP-7 – an enzyme capable of cleaving proteins that are essential for blood brain barrier integrity and immune suppression.

Results

Here we report that MMP-7-deficient (mmp7-/-) mice on the C57Bl/6 background are resistant to EAE induced by myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG). Brain sections from MOG-primedmmp7-/-mice did not show signs of immune cell infiltration of the CNS, but MOG-primed wild-type mice showed extensive vascular cuffing and mononuclear cell infiltration 15 days after vaccination. At the peak of EAE wild-type mice had MMP-7 immuno-reactive cells in vascular cuffs that also expressed the macrophage markers Iba-1 and Gr-1, as well as tomato lectin. MOG-specific proliferation of splenocytes, lymphocytes, CD4+and CD8+cells were reduced in cells isolated from MOG-primedmmp7-/-mice, compared with MOG-primed wild-type mice. However, the adoptive transfer of splenocytes and lymphocytes from MOG-primedmmp7-/-mice induced EAE in naïve wild-type recipients, but not naïvemmp7-/-recipients. Finally, we found that recombinant MMP-7 increased permeability between endothelial cells in anin vitroblood-brain barrier model.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that MMP-7 may facilitate immune cell access or re-stimulation in perivascular areas, which are critical events in EAE and multiple sclerosis, and provide a new therapeutic target to treat this disorder.
Prevalence of antibodies to Ro-52 in a serologically defined population of patients with systemic sclerosis
Authors: Parker Jennifer C , Burlingame Rufus W , Bunn Christopher C
Published: March 2009

Background

Antibodies against Ro-52 have been described in patients with a broad spectrum of autoimmune disease, most commonly in association with anti-Ro-60 in systemic lupus erythematosus and Sjogrens syndrome. However, in inflammatory myositis anti-Ro-52 is frequently present without anti-Ro-60 and is closely linked to the presence of aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase (aats) antibodies. To date there have been no comprehensive reports on the frequency of anti-Ro-52 in systemic sclerosis (SSc), a disease characterised by hallmark autoantibodies that occur in non-overlapping subsets. Clinically, each antibody-defined group has a distinct pattern of organ involvement, some featuring myositis.

Objectives

To determine the frequency of anti-Ro-52 in serologically defined groups of SSc patients and to investigate a possible link with myositis-associated autoantibodies.

Methods

Serum samples from 1010 patients with SSc and 55 and 32 patients with anti-aats and anti-Ku respectively were tested for the presence of anti-Ro-52 using a commercial ELISA.

Results

The prevalence of anti-Ro-52 was 15–38% in nine of the eleven sub-groups. There were no significant differences in mean anti-Ro-52 levels in these groups with the exception of that defined by the presence of anti-U1-RNP. In the remaining groups defined by anti-Ro-60 and anti-aats, anti-Ro-52 was present in 92% and 100% respectively. In sera from non-SSc patients with anti-aats, anti-Ro-52 was detected in 64%.

Conclusion

Anti-Ro-52 is present throughout the SSc population. It is neither more prevalent in the myositis-associated antibody groups nor does it segregate with any other major SSc-specific autoantibodies. The co-existence of anti-Ro-52 with both anti-Ro-60 and anti-aats is confirmed.
Reliability and normative values for the foot mobility magnitude: a composite measure of vertical and medial‐lateral mobility of the midfoot
Authors: McPoil Thomas G , Vicenzino Bill , Cornwall Mark W , Collins Natalie , Warren Meghan
Published: March 2009

Background

A study was conducted to determine the reliability and minimal detectable change for a new composite measure of the vertical and medial‐lateral mobility of the midfoot called the foot mobility magnitude.

Methods

Three hundred and forty‐five healthy participants volunteered to take part in the study. The change in dorsal arch height between weight bearing and non‐weight bearing as well as the change in midfoot width between weight bearing and non‐weight bearing were measured at 50% of total foot length and used to calculate the foot mobility magnitude. The reliability and minimal detectable change for the measurements were then determined based on the assessment of the measurements by three raters with different levels of clinical experience.

Results

The change in dorsal arch height between weight bearing and non‐weight bearing, midfoot width between weight bearing and non‐weight bearing, and the foot mobility magnitude were shown to have high levels of intra‐rater and inter‐rater reliability. Normative data are provided for the left and right feet of both the female (n = 211) and male (n = 134) subjects.

Conclusion

While the measurements of navicular drop and drift have been used as a clinical method to assess both the vertical and medial‐lateral mobility of the midfoot, poor to fair levels of inter‐rater reliability have been reported. The results of the current study suggest that the foot mobility magnitude provides the clinician and researcher with a highly reliable measure of vertical and medial‐lateral midfoot mobility.
Scope for more genetic testing in learning
disability
Authors: Robertshaw B. A. , MacPherson J.
Published: March 2009

There have been major advances in the past few years in our understanding of
the X-linked learning disabilities. The most common of these is the
fragile-X syndrome, but the number of other gene defects that are now
recognised to be linked with learning disability is increasing year on year.
We describe one family displaying a rare X-linked abnormality. Repeat
genetic testing was requested for a family member with mild learning
disability when, following chromosomal analysis for her brother, it became
known that he had a genetic defect. The genetic defect 46,Xdup(X) (p22.13
p22.31) was identified. To our knowledge this is the first time this precise
configuration has been demonstrated. We conclude that genetic testing for
individuals with learning disability is worthwhile, even when there may be
only a low index of suspicion.
Sub-syndromal and syndromal symptoms in the longitudinal course
of bipolar disorder
Authors: Paykel Eugene S. , Abbott Rosemary , Morriss Richard , Hayhurst Hazel , Scott Jan
Published: March 2009

Background

There have been few detailed longitudinal symptom studies of bipolar
disorder.

Aims

To describe the course of bipolar disorder over 18 months in 204 patients
receiving mental healthcare.

Method

Patients were interviewed every 8 weeks, with weekly ratings of
depression, mania and overall severity.

Results

Participants were symptomatic 53% of the time, with sub-syndromal
symptoms present for twice as long as major disorder, and depressive
symptoms three times more than manic symptoms. Individuals who were
experiencing an episode at baseline spent 33% of the 18 months with
substantial sub-syndromal symptoms, 17% with major disorder and 28%
symptom free. Those not experiencing a baseline episode spent twice as
long symptom free and half as long at disorder levels. Changes in symptom
level were frequent. Predictors of sub-syndromal symptoms were similar to
those of major disorder.

Conclusions

Sub-syndromal residual symptoms are an important problem in recurrent
bipolar disorder and require therapeutic intervention.
Psychotic symptom and cannabis relapse in recent-onset
psychosis
Authors: Hides L. , Dawe S. , Kavanagh D. J. , Young R. M.
Published: March 2009

Background

Cannabis use appears to exacerbate psychotic symptoms and increase risk
of psychotic relapse. However, the relative contribution of cannabis use
compared with other risk factors is unclear. The influence of psychotic
symptoms on cannabis use has received little attention.

Aims

To examine the influence of cannabis use on psychotic symptom relapse and
the influence of psychotic symptom severity on relapse in cannabis use in
the 6 months following hospital admission.

Method

At baseline, 84 participants with recent-onset psychosis were assessed
and 81 were followed up weekly for 6 months, using telephone and
face-to-face interviews.

Results

A higher frequency of cannabis use was predictive of psychotic relapse,
after controlling for medication adherence, other substance use and
duration of untreated psychosis. An increase in psychotic symptoms was
predictive of relapse to cannabis use, and medication adherence reduced
cannabis relapse risk.

Conclusions

The relationship between cannabis use and psychosis may be bidirectional,
highlighting the need for early intervention programmes to target
cannabis use and psychotic symptom severity in this population.
Contingency management treatments
Authors: Petry Nancy M.
Published: March 2009

Contingency management is highly efficacious in improving outcomes in
substance misuse. Whereas a great deal of research has evaluated these
interventions empirically, few treatment providers integrate this approach
in practice. The rationale for contingency management is described, with a
call for expansion of this technique outside the USA.
The Essential Role of Endogenous Ghrelin in Growth Hormone Expression during Zebrafish Adenohypophysis Development
Authors: Li Xi , He Jiangyan , Hu Wei , Yin Zhan
Published: March 2009

Ghrelin, a multifunctional hormone, including potent GH stimulation activity, has been suggested to be important during embryonic development. Expression of ghrelin has been confirmed in the zebrafish pancreas during embryonic stages. Interfering with ghrelin function using two specific antisense morpholino oligonucleotides causes defects during zebrafish embryonic development. In ghrelin morphants the expression of GH was abolished in zebrafish somatotropes, whereas the expression patterns of the other key molecules involved in hypothalamic-pituitary development and distinct pituitary hormones genes remain largely intact at the appropriate time during zebrafish adenohypophysis development. Effective rescue of the ghrelin morphants with exogenous ghrelin mRNA showed that the correct gene had been targeted. Moreover, by analyzing the efficiencies of the ghrelin morphants rescue experiments with various forms of exogenous mutant ghrelin mRNAs, we also demonstrated the essentiality of the form acyl-ghrelin on GH stimulation during zebrafish adenohypophysis development. Our in vivo experiments, for the first time, also provided evidence of the existence of functional obestatin in the C-terminal part of zebrafish proghrelin peptides. Our research here has demonstrated that zebrafish is a unique model for functional studies of endogenous ghrelin, especially during embryonic development.
Excessive Ovarian Production of Nerve Growth Factor Facilitates Development of Cystic Ovarian Morphology in Mice and Is a Feature of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Humans
Authors: Dissen Gregory A. , Garcia-Rudaz Cecilia , Paredes Alfonso , Mayer Christine , Mayerhofer Artur , Ojeda Sergio R.
Published: March 2009

Although ovarian nerve growth factor (NGF) facilitates follicular development and ovulation, an excess of the neurotrophin in the rodent ovary reduces ovulatory capacity and causes development of precystic follicles. Here we show that ovarian NGF production is enhanced in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and that transgenically driven overproduction of NGF targeted to the ovary results in cystic morphology, when accompanied by elevated LH levels. NGF levels are increased in the follicular fluid from PCOS ovaries and in the culture medium of granulosa cells from PCOS patients, as compared with non-PCOS patients. Ovaries from transgenic mice carrying the NGF gene targeted to thecal-interstitial cells by the 17α-hydroxylase gene promoter produce more NGF than wild-type (WT) ovaries and are hyperinnervated by sympathetic nerves. Antral follicle growth is arrested resulting in accumulation of intermediate size follicles, many of which are apoptotic. Peripubertal transgenic mice respond to a gonadotropin challenge with a greater increase in plasma 17-hydroxyprogesterone, estradiol, and testosterone levels than WT controls. Transgenic mice also exhibit a reduced ovulatory response, delayed puberty, and reduced fertility, as assessed by a prolonged interval between litters, and a reduced number of pups per litter. Sustained, but mild, elevation of plasma LH levels results in a heightened incidence of ovarian follicular cysts in transgenic mice as compared with WT controls. These results suggest that overproduction of ovarian NGF is a component of polycystic ovarian morphology in both humans and rodents and that a persistent elevation in plasma LH levels is required for the morphological abnormalities to appear.
Distinct Expression Patterns of Glycoprotein Hormone-α2 and -β5 in a Basal Chordate Suggest Independent Developmental Functions
Authors: Dos Santos Sandra , Bardet Claire , Bertrand Stephanie , Escriva Hector , Habert Damien , Querat Bruno
Published: March 2009

The vertebrate glycoprotein hormones (GpHs), gonadotropins and thyrotropin, are heterodimers composed of a common α- and specific β-subunit. The recombinant heterodimer of two additional, structurally related proteins identified in vertebrate and protostome genomes, the glycoproteins-α2 (GPA2) and-β5 (GPB5), was shown to activate the thyrotropin receptor and was therefore named thyrostimulin. However, differences in tissue distribution and expression levels of these proteins suggested that they might act as nonassociated factors, prompting further investigation on these proteins. In this study we show that GPA2 and GPB5 appeared with the emergence of bilateria and were maintained in most groups. These genes are tightly associated at the genomic level, an association, however, lost in tetrapods. Our structural and genomic environment comparison reinforces the hypothesis of their phylogenetic relationships with GpH-α and -β. In contrast, the glycosylation status of GPA2 and GPB5 is highly variable further questioning heterodimer secretory efficiency and activity. As a first step toward understanding their function, we investigated the spatiotemporal expression of GPA2 and GPB5 genes at different developmental stages in a basal chordate, the amphioxus. Expression of GPB5 was essentially ubiquitous with an anteroposterior gradient in embryos. GPA2 embryonic and larvae expression was restricted to specific areas and, interestingly, partially overlapped that of a GpH receptor-related gene. In conclusion, we speculate that GPA2 and GPB5 have nondispensable and coordinated functions related to a novelty appeared with bilateria. These proteins would be active during embryonic development in a manner that does not require their heterodimerization.
The immunoglobulin superfamily member Hbs functions redundantly with Sns in interactions between founder and fusion-competent myoblasts
Authors: Shelton Claude , Kocherlakota Kiranmai S. , Zhuang Shufei , Abmayr Susan M.
Published: March 2009

The body wall muscle of a Drosophila larva is generated by fusion between founder cells and fusion-competent myoblasts (FCMs). Initially, a founder cell recognizes and fuses with one or two FCMs to form a muscle precursor, then the developing syncitia fuses with additional FCMs to form a muscle fiber. These interactions require members of the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF), with Kin-of-IrreC (Kirre) and Roughest (Rst) functioning redundantly in the founder cell and Sticks-and-stones (Sns) serving as their ligand in the FCMs. Previous studies have not resolved the role of Hibris(Hbs), a paralog of Sns, suggesting that it functions as a positive regulator of myoblast fusion and as a negative regulator that antagonizes the activity of Sns. The results herein resolve this issue, demonstrating that snsand hbs function redundantly in the formation of several muscle precursors, and that loss of one copy of sns enhances the myoblast fusion phenotype of hbs mutants. We further show that excess Hbs rescues some fusion in sns mutant embryos beyond precursor formation,consistent with its ability to drive myoblast fusion, but show using chimeric molecules that Hbs functions less efficiently than Sns. In conjunction with a physical association between Hbs and SNS in cis, these data account for the previously observed UAS-hbs overexpression phenotypes. Lastly, we demonstrate that either an Hbs or Sns cytodomain is essential for muscle precursor formation, and signaling from IgSF members found exclusively in the founder cells is not sufficient to direct precursor formation.
Neurexin IV and Wrapper interactions mediateDrosophilamidline glial migration and axonal ensheathment
Authors: Wheeler Scott R. , Banerjee Swati , Blauth Kevin , Rogers Stephen L. , Bhat Manzoor A. , Crews Stephen T.
Published: March 2009

Glia play crucial roles in ensheathing axons, a process that requires an intricate series of glia-neuron interactions. The membrane-anchored protein Wrapper is present in Drosophila midline glia and is required for ensheathment of commissural axons. By contrast, Neurexin IV is present on the membranes of neurons and commissural axons, and is highly concentrated at their interfaces with midline glia. Analysis of Neurexin IV and wrapper mutant embryos revealed identical defects in glial migration,ensheathment and glial subdivision of the commissures. Mutant and misexpression experiments indicated that Neurexin IV membrane localization is dependent on interactions with Wrapper. Cell culture aggregation assays and biochemical experiments demonstrated the ability of Neurexin IV to promote cell adhesion by binding to Wrapper. These results show that neuronal-expressed Neurexin IV and midline glial-expressed Wrapper act as heterophilic adhesion molecules that mediate multiple cellular events involved in glia-neuron interactions.
The co-regulator dNAB interacts with Brinker to eliminate cells with reduced Dpp signaling
Authors: Ziv Oren , Suissa Yaron , Neuman Hadar , Dinur Tama , Geuking Peter , Rhiner Christa , Portela Marta , Lolo Fidel , Moreno Eduardo , Gerlitz Offer
Published: March 2009

The proper development of tissues requires morphogen activity that dictates the appropriate growth and differentiation of each cell according to its position within a developing field. Elimination of underperforming cells that are less efficient in receiving/transducing the morphogenetic signal is thought to provide a general fail-safe mechanism to avoid developmental misspecification. In the developing Drosophila wing, the morphogen Dpp provides cells with growth and survival cues. Much of the regulation of transcriptional output by Dpp is mediated through repression of the transcriptional repressor Brinker (Brk), and thus through the activation of target genes. Mutant cells impaired for Dpp reception or transduction are lost from the wing epithelium. At the molecular level, reduced Dpp signaling results in Brk upregulation that triggers apoptosis through activation of the JNK pathway. Here we show that the transcriptional co-regulator dNAB is a Dpp target in the developing wing that interacts with Brk to eliminate cells with reduced Dpp signaling through the JNK pathway. We further show that both dNAB and Brk are required for cell elimination induced by differential dMyc expression, a process that depends on reduced Dpp transduction in outcompeted cells. We propose a novel mechanism whereby the morphogen Dpp regulates the responsiveness to its own survival signal by inversely controlling the expression of a repressor, Brk, and its co-repressor, dNAB.
Retrofitting CO2 capture ready fossil plants with post-combustion capture. Part 1: Requirements for supercritical pulverized coal plants using solvent-based flue gas scrubbing
Authors: Lucquiaud M , Gibbins J
Published: March 2009

Rapid global deployment of carbon capture and storage (CCS) requires a two-track approach. CCS needs to be deployed at scale as quickly as possible and other plants, if built without CCS, need to be built CO2 capture ready (CCR) before they are retrofitted. In particular, coal plants are likely to continue to be built in large numbers in developing countries. CCS is not an immediate option for all or most of these plants, but it would be feasible to make large numbers of them CCR for subsequent retrofit of flue gas scrubbing systems for post-combustion capture. This article will examine options for CCR steam turbines for such plants, showing that effective thermodynamic integration with the capture equipment can be achieved for minimal additional cost. The performance will be compared with the retrofit of non-CCR steam turbine configurations. Finally, the uncertainty of CCS development will be discussed and the performance of the CCR steam turbine options proposed will be assessed for a range of future possible CO2 scrubbing solvents that are less energy intensive than the original design case using current solvents.
Photoluminescence Wavelength Control of Fluorene Derivatives through H-bonding and Protonation
Authors: Kawatsuki Nobuhiro , Minami Yuta , Lee Joenghwan
Published: March 2009

A fluorene monomer, which comprised 4-pyridylcyanovinyl groups (FL-CNPy), was synthesized, and the photoluminescence (PL) properties of FL-CNPy combined with various (di)acids were evaluated. Due to hydrogen (H)-bonding or protonation between the pyridine end groups and acids, the PL emission maxima varied from 460 to 557 nm according to the acidity (pKa) and type of (di)acid. Additionally, adjusting the ratio of FL-CNPy/(di)acid tuned the PL emission wavelength without modifying the materials.
Outcome of treatment for dislocation after primary total hip replacement
Authors: Kotwal R. S. , Ganapathi M. , John A. , Maheson M. , Jones S. A.
Published: March 2009

We have studied the natural history of a first episode of dislocation after primary total hip replacement (THR) to clarify the incidence of recurrent dislocation, the need for subsequent revision and the quality of life of these patients.

Over a six-year period, 99 patients (101 hips) presented with a first dislocation of a primary THR. A total of 61 hips (60.4%) had dislocated more than once. After a minimum follow-up of one year, seven patients had died. Of the remaining 94 hips (92 patients), 47 underwent a revision for instability and one awaits operation (51% in total). Of these, seven re-dislocated and four needed further surgery. The quality of life of the patients was studied using the Oxford Hip Score and the EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D) questionnaire. A control group of patients who had not dislocated was also studied. At a mean follow-up of 4.5 years (1 to 20), the mean Oxford Hip Score was 26.7 (15 to 47) after one episode of dislocation, 27.2 (12 to 45) after recurrent dislocation, 34.5 (12 to 54) after successful revision surgery, 42 (29 to 55) after failed revision surgery and 17.4 (12 to 32) in the control group. The EuroQol-5 dimension questionnaire revealed more health problems in patients undergoing revision surgery.
Do children with autism use inner speech and visuospatial resources for the service of executive control? Evidence from suppression in dual tasks
Authors: Holland Lucy , Low Jason
Published: March 2009

Three experiments used dual‐task suppression methodology to study the use of inner speech and visuospatial resources for mediating central executive performance by children with autism (CWA) and group‐matched typically developing (TD) controls. Expt 1 revealed that CWA did not recruit inner speech to facilitate arithmetic task‐switching performance: there was no effect of articulatory suppression (AS) on completion time for CWA compared to the TD group. Expt 2 revealed that suppression of visuospatial resources disrupted the task‐switching performance of both CWA and TD groups. It also confirmed that the task‐switching performance of CWA was significantly slowed by visuospatial compared to AS. Expt 3 showed that CWA also did not employ inner speech, compared to visuospatial resources, for implementing planning movements. Overall, compared to the mixture of representations used by the TD group for problem solving, CWA seemed to use visuospatial working memory resources but not inner speech to service executive control.