bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Osteopontin stimulates autophagy via integrin/CD44 and p38 MAPK signaling pathways in vascular smooth muscle cells
Authors: Zheng Yue‐Hong , Tian Cui , Meng Yan , Qin Yan‐Wen , Du Ya‐Hao , Du Jie , Li Hui‐Hua
Published: March 2011

Osteopontin (OPN) exerts pro‐inflammatory effect and is associated with the development of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). However, the molecular mechanism underlying this association remains obscure. In the present study, we compared gene expression profiles of AAA tissues using microarray assay, and found that OPN was the highest expressed gene (>125‐fold). Furthermore, the expression of LC3 protein and autophagy‐related genes including Atg4b, Beclin1/Atg6, Bnip3, and Vps34 was markedly upregulated in AAA tissues. To investigate the ability of OPN to stimulate autophagy as a potential mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of this disease, we treated vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) with OPN, and found that OPN significantly increased the formation of autophagosomes, expression of autophagy‐related genes and cell death, whereas blocking the signal by anti‐OPN antibody markedly inhibited OPN‐induced autophagy and SMC death. Furthermore, inhibition of integrin/CD44 and p38 MAPK signaling pathways markedly abrogated the biological effects of OPN on SMCs. These data for the first time demonstrate that OPN sitmulates autophagy directly through integrin/CD44 and p38 MAPK‐mediated pathways in SMCs. Thus, inhibition of OPN‐induced autophagy might be a potential therapeutic target in the treatment of AAA disease. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 127–135, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
BK virus‐associated infection in cerebrospinal fluid of neurological patients and mutation analysis of the complete VP1 gene in different patient groups
Authors: Bárcena‐Panero Ana , Van Ghelue Marijke , Khan Mahmud Tareq Hassan , Echevarría Juan E. , Fedele Giovanni , Moens Ugo
Published: March 2011

While BK virus (BKV) is frequently associated with pathological conditions in bone marrow and renal transplant recipients, BKV infection in neurological individuals has been rarely reported. As a result of a BKV, JCV, and SV40 large T antigen‐specific multiplex PCR on 2,062 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from neurological patients suspicious of JCV infection, we identified 20 subjects with at least 1 CSF specimen positive for BKV large T antigen DNA. Because VP1 protein has been suggested to influence the biological/pathological properties of BKV, we tried to sequence the entire VP1 gene in the BKV‐positive neurological patients and succeeded in 14 of the 20 neurological patients. To compare the VP1 sequence of the BKV neurological strains with that of non‐neurotropic strains in other clinical situations, full‐length VP1 DNA was sequenced in 15 renal and 6 bone marrow transplant recipients positive to BKV‐viremia, and in 8 pregnant women as non‐pathological controls. An increased (respectively, decreased) tendency for mutations in the BC loop (respectively, EF loop) was observed, and no mutations were detected in the CD, GH, and HI loops. Subtype I was predominant (93%) and compared to archetypal BKV (WW), amino acid substitutions were detected in 4/14 neurological patients, 10/15 renal transplant recipients, 3/6 bone marrow transplant patients, and in all the pregnant women. Each patient group had distinctive VP1 mutations, but these unique substitutions were not present in all patients of this group. However, molecular modeling simulations of the VP1 mutants predicted changes in protein surface properties which might affect the VP1–receptor interaction. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 136–145, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
AKAP350 Is involved in the development of apical “Canalicular” structures in hepatic cells HepG2
Authors: Mattaloni Stella M. , Kolobova Elena , Favre Cristián , Marinelli Raúl A. , Goldenring James R. , Larocca Maria C.
Published: March 2011

Hepatocytes are epithelial cells whose apical poles constitute the bile canaliculi. The establishment and maintenance of canalicular poles is a finely regulated process that dictates the efficiency of primary bile secretion. Protein kinase A (PKA) modulates this process at different levels. AKAP350 is an A‐kinase anchoring protein that scaffolds protein complexes involved in modulating the dynamic structures of the Golgi apparatus and microtubule cytoskeleton, facilitating microtubule nucleation at this organelle. In this study, we evaluated whether AKAP350 is involved in the development of bile canaliculi‐like structures in hepatocyte derived HepG2 cells. We found that AKAP350 recruits PKA to the centrosomes and Golgi apparatus in HepG2 cells. De‐localization of AKAP350 from these organelles led to reduced apical cell polarization. A decrease in AKAP350 expression inhibited the formation of canalicular structures and impaired F‐actin organization at canalicular poles. Furthermore, loss of AKAP350 expression led to diminished polarized expression of the p‐glycoprotein (MDR1/ABCB1) at the apical “canalicular” membrane. AKAP350 knock down effects on canalicular structures formation and actin organization could be mimicked by inhibition of Golgi microtubule nucleation by depletion of CLIP associated proteins (CLASPs). Our data reveal that AKAP350 participates in mechanisms which determine the development of canalicular structures as well as accurate canalicular expression of distinct proteins and actin organization, and provide evidence on the involvement of Golgi microtubule nucleation in hepatocyte apical polarization. J. Cell. Physiol. 227: 160–171, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Incubation temperature influences locomotor performance in young wood ducks (Aix sponsa)
Authors: Hopkins Brittney Cole , DuRant Sarah Elizabeth , Hepp Gary Richard , Hopkins William Alexander
Published: March 2011

Incubation temperature is an important maternal effect in birds that can influence numerous offspring traits. For example, ducklings from eggs incubated at lower temperatures have lower growth rates, protein content, and are in poorer body condition than ducklings from eggs incubated at higher temperatures. Based on these observations, we predicted that incubation temperature would indirectly influence performance through its direct effects on body size. Wood duck (Aix sponsa) eggs were incubated at three ecologically relevant temperatures (35, 35.9, 37°C). After hatching, all ducklings were housed under identical conditions and were subjected to aquatic and terrestrial racing trials at 15 and 20 days posthatch (dph). Contrary to our prediction, incubation temperature did not influence most duckling body size parameters at 15 or 20 dph. However, incubation temperature did have a strong influence on locomotor performance independent of body size and body condition. Ducklings hatched from eggs incubated at the lowest temperature had significantly reduced maximum aquatic swim velocity than ducklings from higher temperatures. Maximum terrestrial sprint velocity followed a similar pattern, but did not differ statistically among incubation treatments. To our knowledge, this is the first study to demonstrate that slight changes in incubation temperature can directly affect locomotor performance in avian offspring and thus provide a significant source of phenotypic variation in natural wood duck populations.J. Exp. Zool. 315:274–279, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of edge‐transitive 4‐valent bicirculants
Authors: Kovács István , Kuzman Boštjan , Malnič Aleksander , Wilson Steve
Published: March 2011

A bicirculant is a graph admitting an automorphism with exactly two vertex‐orbits of equal size. All non‐isomorphic 4‐valent edge‐transitive bicirculants are characterized in this article. As a corollary, a characterization of 4‐valent arc‐transitive dihedrants is obtained. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory.
On the decoupling of the IODZM from southern Africa Summer rainfall variability
Authors: Manatsa Desmond , Reason Chris J. C. , Mukwada Geoffrey
Published: March 2011

The decoupling of the Indian Ocean Dipole/zonal mode (IODZM) from southern Africa's dominant mode of rainfall variability since 1997 is investigated. An approach of using variability as the major descriptive parameter for the observational time series is adopted. This approach enables the identification of epochs differentiated by the examination of low‐frequency signals in the climate data of the Indian Ocean basin. The period of analysis stretches from 1922 to 2008 and focuses on the October to December season so as to capture the most active component of the IODZM events that coincide with the early summer rainfall. The period around 1997/1998 is noted as an important climate regime transition in the Indian Ocean climate system whereas the well known 1976/1977 climate shift appears to be of lesser significance in the region. The temporal manifestation of statistical parameters of the IODZM matches significantly with those of basic atmospheric variables in the western subtropical South Indian Ocean and consistently identifies 1961 and 1997 as important turning points in the Indian Ocean climate system. However, although the relatively high variability of the atmospheric variables quickly decreases after 1997, a corresponding fall in the rainfall and IODZM time series variability is not found. Instead, an abrupt reduction in the correlation between the two time series to insignificant values occurs after 1997. Coincidentally, notable cooling over the western South Indian Ocean is observed during the pre‐1997 positive IODZM events, followed by a synchronized anomalous warming and cooling over the respective western and eastern subtropical South Indian Ocean during the events after 1997. This change is associated with an eastward displacement of the South Indian Ocean anticyclone after 1997. Thus, 1997 is a significant year in the Indian Ocean climate system when a discontinuity acts to decouple the IODZM from the dominant mode of regional rainfall variability. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
An ex‐ante evaluation of the use of seasonal climate forecasts for millet growers in SW Niger
Authors: Roudier P. , Sultan B. , Quirion P. , Baron C. , Alhassane A. , Traoré S. B. , Muller B.
Published: March 2011

This work assesses the value of climate forecasts for millet growers in Niger. We quantify the potential value of three kinds of categorical forecasts assigning cumulated rainfall during the forthcoming rainy season by tercile (dry, normal, or humid): (i) a realistic imperfect tercile forecast; (ii) a perfect tercile forecast; and (iii) a perfect tercile forecast which includes a prediction of rainy season onset and offset dates. Eighteen management strategies are assessed. Corresponding yields are computed using the SARRA‐H crop model then converted into utility by taking into account risk‐aversion. Simulations over an historical 18‐year period 1990‐2007 show that benefit is lowest with imperfect tercile forecasts (+6.9%), higher (+11%) with perfect tercile forecasts, and reaches + 31% when enhanced adaptation strategies and additional climatic indices are available. These results show that improving existing forecast systems by including the prediction of onset and cessation of rainfall is of great value. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Possible effects of the North Atlantic Oscillation on the strengthening relationship between the East Asian Summer monsoon and ENSO
Authors: Wu Zhiwei , Li Jianping , Jiang Zhihong , He Jinhai , Zhu Xiaoying
Published: March 2011

In contrast to the weakened relationship between the Indian summer monsoon and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) since 1970s, the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) has exhibited a strengthened relationship with ENSO. In this study, observational and numerical evidences manifest that spring NAO may exert notable impacts on the enhancement of the EASM–ENSO relationship. Anomalous spring NAO induces a tripole sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTA) pattern in North Atlantic which persists into ensuring summer. The tripole SSTA excites downstream tele‐connections of a distinct Rossby wave train prevailing over the northern Eurasia and a simple Gill‐Matsuno‐type quadrupole response over western Pacific. The former modulates the blocking highs over the Ural Mountain and the Okhotsk Sea. The latter enhances the linkage between the western Pacific subtropical high and ENSO. The co‐effects of the two tele‐connection patterns help to strengthen (or weaken) the subtropical Meiyu‐Baiu‐Changma front, the primary rain‐bearing system of the EASM. As such, spring NAO is tied to the strengthened connection between ENSO and the EASM. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Establishment of an index with increased sensitivity for assessing murine arthritis
Authors: Sampson Erik R. , Beck Christopher A. , Ketz John , Canary Krista L. , Hilton Matthew J. , Awad Hani , Schwarz Edward M. , Chen Di , O'Keefe Regis J. , Rosier Randy N. , Zuscik Michael J.
Published: March 2011

The goals of our study were to establish quantitative outcomes for assessing murine knee arthritis and develop an Arthritis Index that incorporates multiple outcomes into a single calculation that provides enhanced sensitivity. Using an accepted model of meniscal/ligamentous injury (MLI)‐induced osteoarthritis (OA), we assessed mouse knee arthritis using several approaches. Histology‐based methods were performed to visualize joint tissues including articular cartilage and subchondral bone. Accepted histologic scoring methods and histomorphometry were performed to grade cartilage degeneration and determine articular cartilage area, respectively. MicroCT was used to visualize and quantify the bony structures of the joint including osteophytes and joint bone volume. A statistical algorithm was then developed that combined histologic scores and cartilage areas into a single Arthritis Index. MLI induced progressive, OA‐like articular cartilage degeneration characterized by increasing (worsening) histologic score and decreasing cartilage area. MicroCT revealed osteophytes and increased joint bone volume between the femoral and tibial physes following MLI. Lastly, an Arthritis Index calculation was established, which incorporated histologic scoring and cartilage area. The Arthritis Index provided enhanced quantitative sensitivity in assessing the level of joint degeneration compared to either histologic scoring or cartilage area determination alone; when using the Index, between 29% and 43% fewer samples are needed to establish statistical significance in studies of murine arthritis. Arthritis in the mouse knee can be quantitatively assessed by histologic scoring, measuring cartilage area, and determining joint bone volume. Enhanced sensitivity can be achieved by performing the Arthritis Index calculation, a novel method for quantitatively assessing mouse knee arthritis. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29: 1145–1151, 2011
Risk of venous thromboembolism in bone and soft‐tissue sarcoma patients undergoing surgical intervention: A report from prior to the initiation of SCIP measures
Authors: Damron Timothy A. , Wardak Zabi , Glodny Bradley , Grant William
Published: March 2011

Background and Objectives

This study reviews incidence and risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in bone/soft‐tissue sarcoma patients prior to the initiation of Surgical Care Improvement Program (SCIP) measures in October 2009.

Methods

A retrospective chart review identified 171 cases of bone (51) and soft‐tissue (120) sarcoma. Data were extracted on demographics, histology, presence of metastasis at presentation, type of adjuvant therapy, and established risk factors for VTE. Risk factors and outcomes were analyzed using chi‐square and logistic regression with the Fisher exact test.

Results

The rate of clinically diagnosed VTE was 4.1% (7/171). Only those patients undergoing chemotherapy were found to have a significantly increased risk of VTE (P = 0.04). Chemical prophylaxis showed a trend toward reduction in the risk of VTE (2.4% vs. 9.1%, P = 0.13). The number of individual patient prothrombotic risk factors showed a trend towards increased risk of VTE (P = 0.12).

Conclusions

The current rate of 4.1% is at the lower end of the range of reported incidence for musculoskeletal oncology patients. Furthermore, VTE did not occur only in patients with hip/thigh sarcomas, as previously reported by some. The trend for reduced incidence with chemoprophylaxis favors prophylactic measures but requires further substantiation in larger studies. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:643–647. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recurrent laryngeal nerve monitoring versus identification alone on post‐thyroidectomy true vocal fold palsy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Higgins Thomas S. , Gupta Reena , Ketcham Amy S. , Sataloff Robert T. , Wadsworth J. Trad , Sinacori John T.
Published: March 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To compare by meta‐analysis the effect of recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) monitoring versus RLN identification alone on true vocal fold palsy rates after thyroidectomy.

Study Design:

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods:

A search of MEDLINE (1966–July 2008), EMBASE (1980–July 2008), Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials (CENTRAL), Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, clinicaltrials.gov, and The National Guideline Clearinghouse databases was performed. References from retrieved articles, presentation data, and correspondence with experts was also included. All authors used a detailed list of inclusion/exclusion criteria to determine articles eligible for final inclusion. Two authors independently extracted data including study criteria, methods of vocal fold function assessment, laryngeal nerve monitor type, and surgical procedure. Odds ratios (OR) were pooled using a random‐effects model. Associations with patient and operative characteristics were tested in subgroups.

Results:

One randomized clinical trial, seven comparative trials, and 34 case series evaluating 64,699 nerves‐at‐risk were included. The overall incidence of true vocal fold palsy (TVFP) was 3.52% for intraoperative nerve monitoring (IONM) versus 3.12% for nerve identification alone (ID) (OR 0.93; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.76‐1.12]. No statistically significant difference in transient TVFP (2.74% IONM vs. 2.49% ID [OR 1.07, 95% CI, 0.95‐1.20]), persistent TVFP (0.75% IONM vs. 0.58% ID [OR 0.99, 95% CI, 0.79‐1.23]), or unintentional RLN injury (0.12% IONM vs. 0.33% ID [OR 0.50, 95% CI, 0.15‐1.75]) was found.

Conclusions:

This meta‐analysis demonstrates no statistically significant difference in the rate of true vocal fold palsy after using intraoperative neuromonitoring versus recurrent laryngeal nerve identification alone during thyroidectomy.
A CASE ASSESSMENT OF THE MECHANISMS INVOLVED IN HUMAN‐INDUCED LAND DEGRADATION IN NORTHEASTERN KUWAIT
Authors: AL‐Awadhi J. M.
Published: March 2011

Soil degradation and vegetation deterioration in contrasting areas (open desert versus protected desert) in the northeastern part of Kuwait were investigated, using field measurements, and laboratory methodologies. The average infiltration rate of compacted soils studied was found to be 52 per cent lower than that of the undisturbed soils we investigated. The bulk density of the compacted soils was 19 per cent higher than that of the non‐compacted soils. The average topsoil resistance of severely compacted soils was 13 per cent greater than that of undisturbed soils and is mainly due to overgrazing, and off‐road vehicle use. We found that the overall vegetation cover status of open areas investigated was approximately 70 per cent less than for the protected areas studied. As a consequence of soil compaction and vegetation deterioration, sand deflation processes, and sand movement prevail in open areas. The total average percentages of course grain sizes in unprotected soils and heavily disturbed soils by vehicles (off‐road) are 51 and 103 per cent greater, respectively. The annual rate of sand transport during the last 20 years, from the prevailing wind direction (NW) in the area has increased by 81 per cent. The delicate balance between soil and natural vegetation cover is easily disturbed by off‐road vehicle use associated with overgrazing and recreation activity. A restoration plan is needed in order to reduce land degradation and to allow natural vegetation recovery. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anarchy of effects? Exploring attention to online advertising and multiple outcomes
Authors: Goodrich Kendall
Published: March 2011

This research examines the relationship between attention to online advertising and brand attitude, aided recall, and purchase intention. Results indicate that attention to an ad is affected by ad type (pictorial vs. text) and the interaction between ad location (left vs. right) and page (image‐oriented vs. textual), suggesting a range of factors that impact attention. Furthermore, under the online conditions of this study, attention is positively related to aided recall and to purchase intention, but negatively associated with brand attitude. Re‐sults are interpreted in the framework of dual attitude theory (Wilson, Lindsey, & Schooler, 2000) and other effects models. Although a clear “hierarchy of effects” appears to be elusive, the results suggest that marketers must fully evaluate advertising goals prior to creative development. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
H. pylori cagL amino acid sequence polymorphism Y58E59 induces a corpus shift of gastric integrin α5β1 related with gastric carcinogenesis
Authors: Yeh Yi‐Chun , Chang Wei‐Lun , Yang Hsiao‐Bai , Cheng Hsiu‐Chi , Wu Jiunn‐Jung , Sheu Bor‐Shyang
Published: March 2011

We tested whether cagL amino acid sequence polymorphisms of Helicobacter pylori correlated to clinico‐histological outcomes and gastric α5β1 integrin expressions. One hundred forty five patients with H. pylori infection and 47 noninfected controls were enrolled to check gastric integrin α5β1 intensities topographically. The collected isolates were screened for cagL‐genotype by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and assessed for amino acid sequence polymorphisms using sequence translation. Our H. pylori isolates were predominantly (98.6%) cagL‐genopositive, 95.8% of which had the RGD motif in their amino acid sequences. The isolates from the gastric cancer (GCA) patients indicated a higher rate of amino acid sequence polymorphisms—Y58 and E59—than those of the non‐GCA patients (P < 0.05). The polymorphisms as Y58E59 noted with increased risk of GCA up to 4.6‐fold (95%CI: 1.8–11.9). H. pylori‐infected patients had higher integrin α5β1 than noninfected patients (P < 0.05). Furthermore, cagL‐Y58E59 H. pylori infection predisposed an upward shift in integrin α5β1 (P = 0.007) in the corpus, leading to more severe corpus chronic inflammation (P < 0.05). H. pylori CagL amino acid polymorphisms like Y58E59 correlate with a higher risk of GCA, and may regulate a corpus shift of gastric integrin α5β1 to lead to severe corpus gastritis during gastric carcinogenesis. Mol. Carcinog. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Can spiral analysis predict the FP‐CIT SPECT scan result in tremulous patients?
Authors: Bajaj Nin P.S. , Knöbel Maria , Gontu Vamsi , Bain Peter G.
Published: March 2011

Background:

Previous studies have compared the accuracy of spiral analysis in distinguishing essential tremor (ET) from PD. In this study, we have used this technique to distinguish cases of tremulous PD (TDPD) (N = 24) from tremulous parkinsonian subjects without evidence of dopaminergic deficit (N = 41).

Methods:

All patients were characterized on clinical and 123I‐N‐ω‐fluoro‐propyl‐2ß‐carbomethoxy‐3ß‐(4‐iodophenyl) nortropane ([123I] FP‐CIT) SPECT scan data, which were concordant in every case.

All analyses were carried out by observers blinded to the clinical details and supplied with just the spiral drawings, from which tremor severity (TS), 3‐turn spiral diameter (3TD), and spiral density (SD) were measured.

Results:

The spirals drawn by TDPD cases had significantly smaller 3TD (P = 0.029) and greater SD (P = 0.0082) than those with normal FP‐CIT scans. There was no significant difference in the TS between the two groups (P = 0.11). The sensitivity and specificity of TS were 62.5% and 65.0%, 3TD were 75% and 56.7%, and SD were 30.4% and 82.5%, respectively, in predicting the correct classification. Further analyses combining these factors into pairs, showed that the respective sensitivities and specificities of (1) TS × 3TD were 75.0% and 40.0%, (2) TS/SD were 56% and 70.0%, and (3) 3TD/SD were 87.0% and 40.0%.

Discussion:

There are significant differences in the 3TD and SD of spirals drawn by tremulous patients with normal versus abnormal FP‐CIT scans. Spiral analysis may have some clinical value in helping to distinguish tremulous parkinsonian patients with normal presynaptic dopaminergic imaging from tremulous PD patients, providing results similar to those reported for expert movement disorder neurologists using standardized videotaped examinations. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
The c.‐237_236GA>TT THAP1 sequence variant does not increase risk for primary dystonia
Authors: Xiao Jianfeng , Zhao Yu , Bastian Robert W. , Perlmutter Joel S. , Racette Brad A. , Tabbal Samer D. , Karimi Morvarid , Paniello Randal C. , Wszolek Zbigniew K. , Uitti Ryan J. , Van Gerpen Jay A. , Simon David K. , Tarsy Daniel , Hedera Peter , Truong Daniel D. , Frei Karen P. , Blitzer Andrew , Rudzińska Monika , Pfeiffer Ronald F. , Le Carrie , LeDoux Mark S.
Published: March 2011

Background: Sequence variants in coding and noncoding regions of THAP1 have been associated with primary dystonia.

Methods: In this study, 1,446 Caucasian subjects with mainly adult‐onset primary dystonia and 1,520 controls were genotyped for a variant located in the 5′‐untranslated region of THAP1 (c.‐237_236GA>TT).

Results: Minor allele frequencies were 62/2892 (2.14%) and 55/3040 (1.81%) in subjects with dystonia and controls, respectively (P=0.202). Subgroup analyses by gender and anatomical distribution also failed to attain statistical significance. In addition, there was no effect of the TT variant on expression levels of THAP1 transcript or protein.

Discussion: Our findings indicate that the c.‐237_236GA>TT THAP1 sequence variant does not increase risk for adult‐onset primary dystonia in Caucasians. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
A new familial syndrome with dystonia and lower limb action myoclonus
Authors: Groen Justus , van Rootselaar Anne‐Fleur , van der Salm Sandra M. A. , Bloem Bastiaan R. , Tijssen Marina
Published: March 2011

Background:

Myoclonus‐dystonia (M‐D) is genetic and clinically heterogeneous. Identification and description of rare M‐D syndromes may contribute to gene identification.

Results:

Here, we describe a new, autosomal dominant M‐D syndrome in a 3‐generation pedigree showing anticipation. Patients have progressive action‐induced multifocal dystonia and generalized myoclonus. A remarkable feature of the syndrome is action myoclonus in the lower extremities triggered by upright posture, causing instability. Electrophysiological characterization shows a 12‐Hz peak in the EMG autospectrum and corticomuscular and intermuscular coherences.

Conclusions:

A new familial M‐D syndrome with progressive action myoclonus and dystonia is described. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
The free vascularized fibular graft for bridging large skeletal defects of the upper extremity
Authors: Soucacos Panayotis N. , Korompilias Anastasios V. , Vekris Marios D. , Zoubos Aristides , Beris Alexandros E.
Published: March 2011

Large skeletal defects of the upper extremity pose a serious clinical problem with potentially deleterious effects on both function and viability of the limb. Recent advances in the microsurgical techniques involved in free vascularized bone transfers for complex limb injuries have dramatically improved limb salvage and musculoskeletal reconstruction. This study evaluates the clinical and radiographic results of 18 patients who underwent reconstruction of large defects of the long bones of the upper extremity with free vascularized fibular bone grafts. Mean patient age was 27 years (7−43 years) and mean follow‐up was 4 years (1−10 years). The results confirm the value of vascularized fibular grafts for bridging large bone defects in the upper extremity. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery 2011.
Long‐term outcome of bilateral Wilms tumors (BWT)
Authors: Aronson Daniel C. , Slaar Annelie , Heinen Richard C. , de Kraker Jan , Heij Hugo A.
Published: March 2011

Background

Modern WT management consist of ample chemotherapy, nephron‐sparing surgery, and, when indicated, radiotherapy. Survivors may develop renal failure or secondary tumors due to anticancer treatment. We analyzed long‐term outcome (follow‐up >5 years) after bilateral Wilms tumor (BWT) treatment with respect to survival, renal function, and secondary malignancies.

Methods

From 41 patients (23 females, 28 synchronous tumors) diagnosed with BWT between 1967 and 2007, 25 (18 females, 14 synchronous) with a follow‐up >5 years could be included. Of this subgroup, median age at diagnosis was 1.64 years (range 0.27–5.35), and at maximum follow‐up 14.99 years (range 5.40–33.99). Data were retrospectively collected and analyzed.

Results

One patient (4%) died 17.75 years after diagnosis, five (20%) had renal transplants: 3/5 after bilateral nephrectomy for Denys–Drash syndrome (DDS), and 2/5 for ESRD after an interval of 7 and 18 years, respectively. All transplanted patients remained in CR. Another three patients developed mild renal insufficiency (creatinine levels 1.3, 1.8, and 2.8 mg/100 ml, respectively; N = 0.5–1.2), combined with hypertension in 1; neither of them was transplanted. Sixteen (64%) had normal renal function and were in CR. Long‐term renal function appeared significantly better after bilateral nephron sparing surgery (NSS) then after other surgical procedures (P < 0.0001). Seven secondary tumors were found in five (20%) patients, one of whom had a DDS.

Conclusion

Long‐term 10‐year overall survival was 78%. There was significant morbidity (13/25, 52%), in terms of renal failure (8/25, 32%) including renal transplantation (5/25, 20%), and secondary tumors (5/25). These findings necessitate long‐term follow‐up beyond childhood. Future work should be directed at reducing the harmful effects of treatment, including the increased use of NSS. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:1110–1113. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ovarian‐sparing surgery for ovarian teratoma in children
Authors: Chabaud‐Williamson M. , Netchine I. , Fasola S. , Larroquet M. , Lenoir M. , Patte C. , Bénifla J.L. , Coulomb‐L'herminé A. , Grapin C. , Audry G. , Auber F.
Published: March 2011

Background

Ovarian teratoma (OT) is the most common ovarian neoplasm in children. Oophorectomy has been the standard treatment but may impair fertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility and outcome of ovarian‐sparing surgery (OSS) for OT.

Procedure

We retrospectively studied all children treated for OT at a pediatric teaching hospital in Paris, France, between March 1992 and July 2006. OSS was performed when deemed technically feasible in patients who had no lymphadenopathy by preoperative imaging or surgical exploration, normal tumor marker levels, and calcifications on radiographs.

Results

We identified 30 patients, including 29 with unilateral OT and 1 with synchronous bilateral OT. Emergent surgery was performed in five patients, among whom four had ovarian torsion requiring oophorectomy and one underwent OSS. Of the 26 OTs in the 25 remaining patients, 10 were managed with OSS and 16 with oophorectomy. Subsequently, ultrasound monitoring detected OT development in the contralateral ovary in 4 (14%) patients, after a median of 3 years (range, 1–14 years); OSS was performed in all four cases. The patient with bilateral synchronous OT, managed by OSS initially, underwent unilateral oophorectomy 3 years later for a recurrence. Overall OSS was performed for 15 (42%) OTs.

Conclusions

Our results suggest recommendations for preserving fertility whenever possible without compromising the oncological prognosis. In particular, OSS should be reserved for patients who meet all criteria for localized mature teratoma. Long‐term follow‐up is crucial. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 429–434. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Controlling mobility and birefringence of azo chromophores in epoxy polymers
Authors: Sáiz Luciana M , Orofino Antonela B , Ruzzo María M , Arenas Gustavo F , Oyanguren Patricia A , Galante María J
Published: March 2011

Polymers containing azobenzene units are of special interest due to the reversibility of their photo‐orientation. Applications of these materials are in the fields of optical information storage, information processing, optical switching devices and others. In the work reported, we synthesized, characterized and compared the optical behaviour of azo‐modified epoxy polymers. With this goal in mind, Disperse Red 13 was selected as azo chromophore and two different amines, N,N‐benzyldimethylamine and 4‐(dimethylamine)pyridine, as initiators of the epoxy homopolymerization. The influence of the degree of union between azo chromophore and matrix in crosslinked polymers, and, in consequence, the azo mobility, on the optical behaviour (birefringence and dichroism) of resulting films was evaluated. An analysis of the dynamics of the writing and relaxation processes was also carried out. When the azo chromophore was covalently linked to the network, the maximum birefringence was reached three times faster. Also, two completely different optical behaviours were observed taking into account the occurrence or not of covalent bonding between the chromophore and the matrix. A remnant birefringence of around 60% was retained in the first case; an on‐off optical behaviour was observed in the second case. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
A comparative study of the preparation and physical properties of polystyrene–silica mesocomposite and nanocomposite materials
Authors: Weng Chang‐Jian , Huang Kuan‐Yeh , Chiu Wen‐Ling , Yeh Jui‐Ming , Wei Yen , Liu Sung‐Po , Hwang Shyh‐Shin
Published: March 2011

In this paper, a comparative study with regard to the preparation and physical properties of as‐prepared polystyrene–silica mesocomposite (PSM) and polystyrene‐silica nanocomposite (PSN) materials is presented. Vinyl‐modified mesoporous silica particles with a wormhole structure were first prepared by doping a sol‐gel metal oxide with an optically active non‐surfactant (dibenzoyl‐L‐tartaric acid) as a template, followed by template removal through Soxhlet extraction. The as‐prepared silica particles with/without mesopores were subsequently characterized using the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller method and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Fourier transform infrared, 13C NMR and 29Si NMR solid‐state spectroscopy. A specific feed amount of silica particles was subsequently reacted with styrene monomer by free radical polymerization to yield a series of PSM and corresponding PSN materials. Both as‐prepared composite systems were further characterized using TEM and scanning electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive X‐ray mapping studies. A systematic comparative study of the physical properties of both as‐prepared composite materials clearly illustrated that PSM had effectively enhanced thermal stability, optical clarity and dielectric properties compared to the corresponding PSN counterpart. Evaluation was carried out using thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, UV‐visible transmission spectroscopy and dielectric constant measurements. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Reflective secondary optical elements for fresnel lens based concentrator modules
Authors: Jaus J. , Bett A.W. , Reinecke H. , Weber E.R.
Published: March 2011

This paper reports on the development of secondary optics for concentrator photovoltaic (CPV) modules. It focuses on reflective secondary optics designed for high concentration modules using fresnel lenses as the primary concentrating optics. The development of the secondary optics was guided by the idea of designing an optical element suitable for cost effective mass production. The primary concentrating optics of a CPV module can direct only a limited part of the solar aureole (the immediate surroundings of the sun) onto the solar cell. The same applies to light impinging non‐perpendicular to the optical axis of the module (e.g., due to misalignment of the module). Therefore, one of the main functions of reflective secondary optics is to redirect light onto the solar cell that would otherwise not reach it. In order to analyze the performance of secondary optical elements (“secondaries”), a measurement setup is introduced that measures the angular photocurrent response of a CPV device with highly parallel light. This response is referred to as the “angular acceptance function” (AAF). The AAF is used to estimate the performance of the CPV device under various conditions with differing circumsolar radiation (CSR). A CPV test module was manufactured featuring III–V triple‐junction solar cells, a fresnel lens panel as the primary concentrator optic, and the newly developed reflective secondary. The results of a 6‐month outdoor measurement period are presented and compared to the performance of a reference module as well as to the results of the indoor AAF measurements. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrated proteome and metabolite analysis of the de‐etiolation process in plastids from rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Reiland Sonja , Grossmann Jonas , Baerenfaller Katja , Gehrig Peter , Nunes‐Nesi Adriano , Fernie Alisdair R. , Gruissem Wilhelm , Baginsky Sacha
Published: March 2011

We have analyzed the dynamics of the rice etioplast membrane proteome during the early phase of de‐etiolation using iTRAQ‐based relative protein quantification. Several hundred plastid proteins were identified from enriched membranes, including 36 putative transporters. Hierarchical clustering revealed the coordinated light induction of thylakoid membrane proteins with proteins involved in translation and fatty acid metabolism. No other functional category of identified proteins showed a similarly consistent light induction, and no consistent changes were observed for the identified transporters. This suggests that the etioplast metabolism is already primed to accommodate the metabolic changes that occur during the onset of photosynthesis. This hypothesis was further tested in metabolite profiling experiments. Here, the changes upon illumination are mostly restricted to a decrease in the concentration of some amino acids and an increase in the concentrations of aspartic acid, malic acid, fumaric acid, and succinic acid. These changes are consistent with a rapid activation of photosynthesis and subsequent rapid production of storage carbohydrates and proteins. The information at the proteome level and the parallel measurements of metabolite accumulation both support the view that only minor metabolic network reconstruction and modification of enzyme levels occurs during the first 4 h of etioplast to chloroplast differentiation.
Comparative analysis of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and proximity ligation assay (PLA)
Authors: Mocanu Maria‐Magdalena , Váradi Tímea , Szöllősi János , Nagy Peter
Published: March 2011

Both fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and proximity ligation assay (PLA) are techniques used in the investigation of protein interactions but the latter has not been evaluated in a systematic way, prompting us to compare their performance quantitatively. Proteins were labeled with oligonucleotide‐ or fluorophore‐conjugated antibodies and their proximity was analyzed by flow cytometry in order to obtain statistically robust data. Both intermolecular and intramolecular PLA signals reached saturation at high expression levels. At the same time, the FRET efficiency was independent of, while the FRET signal exhibited a strict linear correlation with the expression levels of proteins. When the density of oligonucleotide‐ and fluorophore‐conjugated antibodies was systematically changed by competition with unlabeled antibodies the FRET signal was linearly proportional to the amount of bound fluorophore‐tagged antibodies, whereas the PLA signal was again saturated. The saturation phenomenon in PLA could not be eliminated by decreasing the duration of the rolling circle amplification reaction. Our data imply that PLA is a semiquantitative measure of protein colocalizations due to non‐linear effects in the reaction and that caution should be exercised when interpreting PLA data in a quantitative way.
A Model of Project Knowledge Management
Authors: Gasik Stanislaw
Published: March 2011

Knowledge is the most important resource needed for project management. The aim of this article is to present a full, consistent model of project knowledge management. There are two basic types of project knowledge: microknowledge, needed for performing a single task (or its part), and macro-knowledge (in other words, all the knowledge possessed by people from a given organizational level). Project knowledge is managed at four distinct levels: individual, project, organization, and global. The article describes the micro-knowledge life cycle and macro-knowledge life cycles from each organizational level, as well as the processes of vertical knowledge flow between organizational levels.
Substrates for flexible electronics: A practical investigation on the electrical, film flexibility, optical, temperature, and solvent resistance properties
Authors: Zardetto Valerio , Brown Thomas M. , Reale Andrea , Di Carlo Aldo
Published: March 2011

Designing and developing flexible electronics requires a thorough investigation of the substrates available for the fabrication of devices. Here, we present a practical study on a variety of significant substrates: polyethylene terephthalate (PET), its heat‐stabilized (HS) derivative, HS‐PET, and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) plastic insulating films; indium tin oxide (ITO)‐coated ITO/PEN and ITO/PET transparent conducting films; rigid ITO/glass and FTO/glass substrates; stainless steel and titanium foils. We put the substrates through a range of tests these actually undergo during device fabrication to determine their optical, mechanical flexibility (under different types of tensile and compressive stress bending with and without a PEDOT:PSS conducting polymer layer), solvent resistance, stability to temperature treatment (conductivity and deformation), and to UV irradiation. We highlight issues and propose solutions to improve substrate response. The results and thresholds extracted reveal limitations and windows of opportunity useful for the designer of flexible optoelectronics in determining manufacturing processes and the final applications under everyday operation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2011
Assessment of the Myogenic Stem Cell Compartment Following Transplantation of Pax3/Pax7-Induced Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived Progenitors
Authors: Darabi Radbod , Santos Filipe N. C. , Filareto Antonio , Pan Weihong , Koene Ryan , Rudnicki Michael A. , Kyba Michael , Perlingeiro Rita C. R.
Published: March 2011

An effective long-term cell therapy for skeletal muscle regeneration requires donor contribution to both muscle fibers and the muscle stem cell pool. Although satellite cells have these abilities, their therapeutic potential so far has been limited due to their scarcity in adult muscle. Myogenic progenitors obtained from Pax3-engineered mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells have the ability to generate myofibers and to improve the contractility of transplanted muscles in vivo, however, whether these cells contribute to the muscle stem cell pool and are able to self-renew in vivo are still unknown. Here, we addressed this question by investigating the ability of Pax3, which plays a critical role in embryonic muscle formation, and Pax7, which is important for maintenance of the muscle satellite cell pool, to promote the derivation of self-renewing functional myogenic progenitors from ES cells. We show that Pax7, like Pax3, can drive the expansion of an ES-derived myogenic progenitor with significant muscle regenerative potential. We further demonstrate that a fraction of transplanted cells remains mononuclear, and displays key features of skeletal muscle stem cells, including satellite cell localization, response to reinjury, and contribution to muscle regeneration in secondary transplantation assays. The ability to engraft, self-renew, and respond to injury provide foundation for the future therapeutic application of ES-derived myogenic progenitors in muscle disorders.
Surface area measurement using rendered three‐dimensional ultrasound imaging: an in‐vitro phantom study
Authors: Ioannou C. , Sarris I. , Yaqub M. K. , Noble J. A. , Javaid M. K. , Papageorghiou A. T.
Published: March 2011

Objective

Cranial sutures and fontanelles can be reliably demonstrated using three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound with rendering. Our objective was to assess the repeatability and validity of fontanelle surface area measurement on rendered 3D images.

Methods

This was an in‐vitro phantom validation study. Four holes, representing fontanelles, were cut on a flat vinyl tile. The phantom was scanned in a test‐tank by two sonographers, at four different depths and using two different 3D sweep directions. The surface areas were measured on scan images and also directly from the phantom for comparison. Coefficients of variation (CVs), intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) and Bland–Altman plots were used for repeatability analysis. Validity was expressed as the percentage difference of the measured area from the true surface area.

Results

Validity of measurement was satisfactory with a mean percentage difference of − 5.9% (median = − 3.5%). The 95% limits of agreement were − 23.9 to 12.1%, suggesting that random error is introduced during image generation and measurement. Repeatability of caliper placement on the same image was higher (intraobserver CV = 1.6%, ICC = 0.999) than for measurement of a newly generated scan image (intraobserver CV = 5.5%, ICC = 0.992). Reduced accuracy was noted for the smallest shape tested.

Conclusion

Surface area measurements on rendered 3D ultrasound images are accurate and reproducible in vitro. Copyright © 2011 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Change blindness and inattentional blindness
Authors: Jensen Melinda S. , Yao Richard , Street Whitney N. , Simons Daniel J.
Published: March 2011

Change blindness and inattentional blindness are both failures of visual awareness. Change blindness is the failure to notice an obvious change. Inattentional blindness is the failure to notice the existence of an unexpected item. In each case, we fail to notice something that is clearly visible once we know to look for it. Despite similarities, each type of blindness has a unique background and distinct theoretical implications. Here, we discuss the central paradigms used to explore each phenomenon in a historical context. We also outline the central findings from each field and discuss their implications for visual perception and attention. In addition, we examine the impact of task and observer effects on both types of blindness as well as common pitfalls and confusions people make while studying these topics. WIREs Cogni Sci 2011 2 529–546 DOI: 10.1002/wcs.130

This article is categorized under:

Psychology > Attention