bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Renal cortical hemopexin accumulation in response to acute kidney injury
Authors: Zager Richard A. , Johnson Ali C. M. , Becker Kirsten
Published: September 2012

Hemopexin (Hpx) is a liver-generated acute phase reactant that binds and neutralizes prooxidant free heme. This study tested whether acute kidney injury (AKI) triggers renal Hpx accumulation, potentially impacting heme Fe-mediated tubular injury. Mice were subjected to glycerol, cisplatin, ischemia-reperfusion (I/R), or endotoxemic [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] AKI. In each instance, 3- to 30-fold renal cortical and isolated proximal tubule segment (PTS) Hpx increases resulted. Although renal cortex and PTS showed variable Hpx mRNA increases, due, in part, to increased mRNA stability, mRNA levels did not correlate with renal Hpx protein accumulation. Conversely, AKI evoked three- to fourfold increases in hepatic Hpx gene induction, which corresponded with three- to fourfold plasma Hpx increases. Renal immunohistochemistry, and increased urinary Hpx excretion, indicated that circulating Hpx gains tubule luminal/urinary access, followed by proximal tubule endocytic uptake. Paradoxically, in cultured renal cells (HK-2, HEK-293), Fe depletion, and not free heme excess, increased Hpx mRNA. LPS acutely increased HK-2 cell Hpx mRNA. This finding, coupled with observations that LPS evoked ∼30-fold greater renal Hpx mRNA increases than any other AKI model, suggests that inflammation, not heme exposure, activates the renal Hpx gene. Each form of AKI evoked early increases in circulating free heme, which subsequently fell to subnormal levels as plasma Hpx rose. In addition, purified Hpx blunted free Fe-mediated HK-2 cell death. In sum, these data indicated that AKI-associated hepatic stress generates Hpx, which gains renal tubule access. Given its ability to bind free heme and mitigate free Fe toxicity, Hpx loading can potentially confer cytoprotective effects.
Arcuate Src activation-induced phosphorylation of NR2B NMDA subunit contributes to inflammatory pain in rats
Authors: Xu Longsheng , Pan Yanyan , Zhu Qi , Gong Shan , Tao Jin , Xu Guang-Yin , Jiang Xinghong
Published: September 2012

The tyrosine kinases of Src family play an important role in the central sensitization following peripheral inflammation. However, whether the Src family in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) of mediobasal hypothalamus is involved in central sensitization remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the role and mechanisms of tyrosine kinases of Src family in N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor activity in the ARC following peripheral inflammation. Peripheral inflammation was induced by unilateral injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into rat hindpaw. The neuronal activities of the ARC were recorded using electrophysiological field recording from the in vitro mediobasal hypothalamic slices from control and CFA rats. Expression of total and phosphorylated Src and NR2B subunit protein was analyzed by Western blot and immuoprecipitation. Our results showed that CFA injection resulted in an increase in mechanical and thermal sensitivity, which was partially blocked by neonatal monosodium glutamate treatment. CFA injection also enhanced spontaneous firings of ARC neurons, which were reversed by the NMDA receptor NR2B subunit specific antagonist Ro25–6981 and by PP2, an Src family tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In addition, peripheral inflammation enhanced Src phosphorylation and NMDA receptor NR2B subunit phosphorylation without alteration of total NR2B subunit expression in the ARC. Peripheral inflammation also increased the association of NR2B protein with p-Src protein in the ARC. Administration of PP2 blocked the upregulation of NR2B phosphorylation induced by CFA injection. Taken together, our present results suggest that the arcuate Src activation-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of NR2B NMDA subunit may contribute to inflammatory pain.
Lipschitz Continuity of the Solution Mapping of Symmetric ConeComplementarity Problems
Authors: Miao Xin-He , Chen Jein-Shan
Published: September 2012

This paper investigates the Lipschitz continuity of the solution mapping
of symmetric cone (linear or nonlinear) complementarity problems (SCLCP
or SCCP, resp.) over Euclidean Jordan algebras. We show that if
the transformation has uniform Cartesian P‐property, then the solution
mapping of the SCCP is Lipschitz continuous. Moreover, we establish that
the monotonicity of mapping and the Lipschitz continuity of solutions of
the SCLCP imply ultra P‐property, which is a concept recently developed
for linear transformations on Euclidean Jordan algebra. For a Lyapunov
transformation, we prove that the strong monotonicity property, the ultra
P‐property, the Cartesian P‐property, and the Lipschitz continuity of
the solutions are all equivalent to each other.
Immunomodulatory Effects of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells in Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Molendijk Ilse , Duijvestein Marjolijn , van der Meulen-de Jong Andrea E. , van Deen Welmoed K. , Swets Marloes , Hommes Daniel W. , Verspaget Hein W.
Published: September 2012

The ability of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) to suppress immune responses combined with their potential to actively participate in tissue repair provides a strong rationale for the use of MSCs as a new treatment option in diseases characterized by inflammation and severe tissue damage, such as Crohn’s disease (CD) and perianal fistulas. Multiple studies have shown that MSCs suppress a range of immune cells, such as dendritic cells (DC), naïve and effector T cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. Recently published papers attribute the immunosuppressive capacity of MSCs to soluble factors produced by MSCs, such as prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO). Promising results are obtained from phase I and II clinical trials with autologous and allogeneic MSCs as treatment for refractory CD and perianal fistulas; however the question remains: what are the molecular mechanisms underlying the immunomodulating properties of MSCs? This paper highlights the present knowledge on the immunosuppressive effects of MSCs and its complexity in relation to CD and perianal fistulas.
Genetic Transformation of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.) with theGusColor Marker, theBarHerbicide Resistance, and the Barley (Hordeum vulgare)HVA1Drought Tolerance Genes
Authors: Kwapata Kingdom , Nguyen Thang , Sticklen Mariam
Published: September 2012

Five common bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.) varieties including “Condor,” “Matterhorn,” “Sedona,” “Olathe,” and “Montcalm” were genetically transformed via the Biolistic bombardment of the apical shoot meristem primordium. Transgenes includedguscolor marker which visually confirmed transgenic events, thebarherbicide resistance selectable marker used forin vitroselection of transgenic cultures and which confirmed Liberty herbicide resistant plants, and the barley (Hordeum vulgare) late embryogenesis abundant protein (HVA1) which conferred drought tolerance with a corresponding increase in root length of transgenic plants. Research presented here might assist in production of betterP. vulgarisgermplasm.
Lipids of Archaeal Viruses
Authors: Roine Elina , Bamford Dennis H.
Published: September 2012

Archaeal viruses represent one of the least known territory of the viral universe and even less is known about their lipids. Based on the current knowledge, however, it seems that, as in other viruses, archaeal viral lipids are mostly incorporated into membranes that reside either as outer envelopes or membranes inside an icosahedral capsid. Mechanisms for the membrane acquisition seem to be similar to those of viruses infecting other host organisms. There are indications that also some proteins of archaeal viruses are lipid modified. Further studies on the characterization of lipids in archaeal viruses as well as on their role in virion assembly and infectivity require not only highly purified viral material but also, for example, constant evaluation of the adaptability of emerging technologies for their analysis. Biological membranes contain proteins and membranes of archaeal viruses are not an exception. Archaeal viruses as relatively simple systems can be used as excellent tools for studying the lipid protein interactions in archaeal membranes.
Myiasis as a Rare Complication of Male Circumcision: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Hossain Muhammad Rajib , Islam Kazi Mazharul , Nabi Junaid
Published: September 2012

Introduction. Circumcision is a common procedure carried out around the world. Due to religious reasons, it is routinely done in Bangladesh, by both traditional as well as medically trained circumcisers. Complications include excessive bleeding, loss of foreskin, infection, and injury to the glans penis. Myiasis complicating male circumcision appears to be very rare.Case Presentation. In 2010, a 10-year-old boy presented to the OPD of Dhaka Medical College Hospital with severe pain in his penile region following circumcision 7-days after. The procedure was carried out by a traditional circumciser using unsterilized instruments and dressing material. After examination, unhealthy granulation tissue was seen and maggots started coming out from the site of infestation, indicating presence of more maggots underneath the skin. An emergency operation was carried out to remove the maggots and reconstruction was carried out at the plastic surgery department.Conclusion. There is scarcity of literature regarding complications following circumcision in developing countries. Most dangerous complications are a result of procedure carried out by traditional circumcisers who are inadequately trained. Incidence of such complications can be prevented by establishing a link between the formal and informal sections of healthcare to improve the safety of the procedure.
Rational Homotopy Perturbation Method
Authors: Vázquez-Leal Héctor
Published: September 2012

The solution methods of nonlinear differential equations are very important because most of the physical phenomena are modelled by using such kind of equations. Therefore, this work presents a rational version of homotopy perturbation method (RHPM) as a novel tool with high potential to find approximate solutions for nonlinear differential equations. We present two case studies; for the first example, a comparison between the proposed method and the HPM method is presented; it will show how the RHPM generates highly accurate approximate solutions requiring less iteration, in comparison to results obtained by the HPM method. For the second example, which is a Van der Pol oscillator problem, we compare RHPM, HPM, and VIM, finding out that RHPM method generates the most accurate approximated solution.
On Enzyme-Based Anticancer Molecular Dietary Manipulations
Authors: Sapone Andrea , Canistro Donatella , Melega Simone , Moles Ramona , Vivarelli Fabio , Paolini Moreno
Published: September 2012

Evidence from both epidemiological and experimental observations has fuelled the belief that the high consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in nutrients and phytochemicals may help prevent cancer and heart disease in humans. This concept has been drastically simplified from the dietary approaches to the use of single bioactive components both as a single supplement or in functional foods to manipulate xenobiotic metabolism. These procedures, which aim to induce mutagen/carcinogen detoxification or inhibit their bioactivation, fail to take into account the multiple and paradoxical biological outcomes of enzyme modulators that make their effects unpredictable. Here, we show that the idea that the physiological roles of specific catalysts may be easily manipulated by regular long-term administration of isolated nutrients and other chemicals derived from food plants is not viable. In contrast, we claim that the consumption of healthy diets is most likely to reduce mutagenesis and cancer risk, and that both research endeavours and dietary recommendations should be redirected away from single molecules to dietary patterns as a main strategy for public health policy.
Functional Expression of TRPV4 Channels in Human Collecting Duct Cells: Implications for Secondary Hypertension in Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Hills Claire E. , Bland Rosemary , Squires Paul E.
Published: September 2012

Background. The Vanilloid subfamily of transient receptor potential (TRPV) ion channels has been widely implicated in detecting osmotic and mechanical stress. In the current study, we examine the functional expression of TRPV4 channels in cell volume regulation in cells of the human collecting duct.Methods. Western blot analysis, siRNA knockdown, and microfluorimetry were used to assess the expression and function of TRPV4 in mediating Ca2+-dependent mechanical stimulation within a novel system of the human collecting duct (HCD).Results. Native and siRNA knockdown of TRPV4 protein expression was confirmed by western blot analysis. Touch was used as a cell-directed surrogate for osmotic stress. Mechanical stimulation of HCD cells evoked a transient increase in [Ca2+]ithat was dependent upon thapsigargin-sensitive store release and Ca2+influx. At 48 hrs, high glucose and mannitol (25 mM) reduced TRPV4 expression by 54% and 24%, respectively. Similar treatment doubled SGK1 expression. Touch-evoked changes were negated following TRPV4 knockdown.Conclusion. Our data confirm expression of Ca2+-dependent TRPV4 channels in HCD cells and suggest that a loss of expression in response to high glucose attenuates the ability of the collecting duct to exhibit regulatory volume decreases, an effect that may contribute to the pathology of fluid and electrolyte imbalance as observed in diabetic nephropathy.
Dietary Nitrate Supplementation Improves Revascularization in Chronic Ischemia
Authors: Hendgen-Cotta Ulrike B. , Luedike Peter , Totzeck Matthias , Kropp Martina , Schicho Andreas , Stock Pia , Rammos Christos , Niessen Michael , Heiss Christian , Lundberg Jon O. , Weitzberg Eddie , Kelm Malte , Rassaf Tienush
Published: September 2012

Background—

Revascularization is an adaptive repair mechanism that restores blood flow to undersupplied ischemic tissue. Nitric oxide plays an important role in this process. Whether dietary nitrate, serially reduced to nitrite by commensal bacteria in the oral cavity and subsequently to nitric oxide and other nitrogen oxides, enhances ischemia-induced remodeling of the vascular network is not known.

Methods and Results—

Mice were treated with either nitrate (1 g/L sodium nitrate in drinking water) or sodium chloride (control) for 14 days. At day 7, unilateral hind-limb surgery with excision of the left femoral artery was conducted. Blood flow was determined by laser Doppler. Capillary density, myoblast apoptosis, mobilization of CD34
+
/Flk-1
+
, migration of bone marrow–derived CD31
+
/CD45
−
, plasma S-nitrosothiols, nitrite, and skeletal tissue cGMP levels were assessed. Enhanced green fluorescence protein transgenic mice were used for bone marrow transplantation. Dietary nitrate increased plasma S-nitrosothiols and nitrite, enhanced revascularization, increased mobilization of CD34
+
/Flk-1
+
and migration of bone marrow–derived CD31
+
/CD45
−
cells to the site of ischemia, and attenuated apoptosis of potentially regenerative myoblasts in chronically ischemic tissue. The regenerative effects of nitrate treatment were abolished by eradication of the nitrate-reducing bacteria in the oral cavity through the use of an antiseptic mouthwash.

Conclusions—

Long-term dietary nitrate supplementation may represent a novel nutrition-based strategy to enhance ischemia-induced revascularization.
Transient Receptor Potential Canonical-3 Channel–Dependent Fibroblast Regulation in Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Harada Masahide , Luo Xiaobin , Qi Xiao Yan , Tadevosyan Artavazd , Maguy Ange , Ordog Balazs , Ledoux Jonathan , Kato Takeshi , Naud Patrice , Voigt Niels , Shi Yanfen , Kamiya Kaichiro , Murohara Toyoaki , Kodama Itsuo , Tardif Jean-Claude , Schotten Ulrich , Van Wagoner David R. , Dobrev Dobromir , Nattel Stanley
Published: September 2012

Background—

Fibroblast proliferation and differentiation are central in atrial fibrillation (AF)–promoting remodeling. Here, we investigated fibroblast regulation by Ca
2+
-permeable transient receptor potential canonical-3 (TRPC3) channels.

Methods and Results—

Freshly isolated rat cardiac fibroblasts abundantly expressed TRPC3 and had appreciable nonselective cation currents (
I
NSC
) sensitive to a selective TPRC3 channel blocker, pyrazole-3 (3 μmol/L). Pyrazole-3 suppressed angiotensin II–induced Ca
2+
influx, proliferation, and α-smooth muscle actin protein expression in fibroblasts. Ca
2+
removal and TRPC3 blockade suppressed extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation inhibition reduced fibroblast proliferation. TRPC3 expression was upregulated in atria from AF patients, goats with electrically maintained AF, and dogs with tachypacing-induced heart failure. TRPC3 knockdown (based on short hairpin RNA [shRNA]) decreased canine atrial fibroblast proliferation. In left atrial fibroblasts freshly isolated from dogs kept in AF for 1 week by atrial tachypacing, TRPC3 protein expression, currents, extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation, and extracellular matrix gene expression were all significantly increased. In cultured left atrial fibroblasts from AF dogs, proliferation rates, α-smooth muscle actin expression, and extracellular signal-regulated kinase phosphorylation were increased and were suppressed by pyrazole-3. MicroRNA-26 was downregulated in canine AF atria; experimental microRNA-26 knockdown reproduced AF-induced TRPC3 upregulation and fibroblast activation. MicroRNA-26 has NFAT (nuclear factor of activated T cells) binding sites in the 5′ promoter region. NFAT activation increased in AF fibroblasts, and NFAT negatively regulated microRNA-26 transcription. In vivo pyrazole-3 administration suppressed AF while decreasing fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix gene expression.

Conclusions—

TRPC3 channels regulate cardiac fibroblast proliferation and differentiation, likely by controlling the Ca
2+
influx that activates extracellular signal-regulated kinase signaling. AF increases TRPC3 channel expression by causing NFAT-mediated downregulation of microRNA-26 and causes TRPC3-dependent enhancement of fibroblast proliferation and differentiation. In vivo, TRPC3 blockade prevents AF substrate development in a dog model of electrically maintained AF. TRPC3 likely plays an important role in AF by promoting fibroblast pathophysiology and is a novel potential therapeutic target.
On the Relationship between Southern Ocean Overturning and ACC Transport
Authors: Morrison Adele K. , McC. Hogg Andrew
Published: September 2012

The eddy field in the Southern Ocean offsets the impact of strengthening winds on the meridional overturning circulation and Antarctic Circumpolar Current (ACC) transport. There is widespread belief that the sensitivities of the overturning and ACC transport are dynamically linked, with limitation of the ACC transport response implying limitation of the overturning response. Here, an idealized numerical model is employed to investigate the response of the large-scale circulation in the Southern Ocean to wind stress perturbations at eddy-permitting to eddy-resolving scales. Significant differences are observed between the sensitivities and the resolution dependence of the overturning and ACC transport, indicating that they are controlled by distinct dynamical mechanisms. The modeled overturning is significantly more sensitive to change than the ACC transport, with the possible implication that the Southern Ocean overturning may increase in response to future wind stress changes without measurable changes in the ACC transport. It is hypothesized that the dynamical distinction between the zonal and meridional transport sensitivities is derived from the depth dependence of the extent of cancellation between the Ekman and eddy-induced transports.
Measurement of Cloud Perturbation Pressures Using an Instrumented Aircraft
Authors: Parish Thomas R. , Leon David
Published: September 2012

Vertical accelerations during the early stages of convective cloud formation are often the result of buoyancy and the perturbation vertical pressure gradient forces. Convection modifies the local pressure field surrounding the cloud. Measurement of the cloud perturbation pressure field is challenging over distance scales on the order of the convective elements, since the signals are often small and the turbulent environment complicates the measurement of static pressure. A technique is described that enables detection of the horizontal pressure perturbations associated with evolving convective clouds using global positioning system measurements on an airborne platform. Differential kinematic processing of data from dual-frequency, carrier-phase-tracking GPS receivers on research aircraft with static base station receivers enables the three-dimensional aircraft position to be resolved within decimeters. Vertical positioning and precise measurement of static pressure allow horizontal pressure perturbations to be determined to an accuracy of roughly 10 Pa. Errors in the static pressure measurement, rather than the GPS-derived altitude, are the largest source of error. A field experiment was conducted in May–June 2008 to demonstrate measurement of perturbations in the horizontal pressure field associated with summertime cumulus congestus clouds over the high plains. Observations of growing convective clouds show negative pressure perturbations on the order of 100 Pa near cloud base linked to updraft regions. Growing cumulus show a high degree of variability between subsequent passes that demonstrate that the horizontal pressure fields evolve rapidly along with attendant vertical circulations and cloud microphysical characteristics.
The United Nations Global Compact
Authors: Post James E.
Published: September 2012

The author focuses attention on some of the historical antecedents of the United Nations Global Compact. Developments such as the Global Compact do not arrive “whole cloth” but require people and institutions to be in a “state of readiness” for the idea. The article discusses Secretary-General Annan’s challenge to action, the historical background of three stages of corporate social responsibility, and the future of global corporate responsibility.
Joint angle effect on the failure behavior of pinned joint composite plates
Authors: Turan Kadir
Published: September 2012

In this study, the failure behaviors of composite plates with double-pin joints were investigated with experimental and numerical methods. The effects of joint angle, fiber orientation angle, and numerical modeling techniques on failure behavior were examined for composite plates consisting of epoxy matrix resin reinforced with woven glass fiber in four layers. The numerical study was performed in ANSYS 11.0 using two- and three-dimensional modeling techniques. Progressive failure analysis was performed by means of a subprogram. Tsai–Wu and Hashin failure criterion were used for two- and three-dimensional solutions, respectively. Material properties degradation rules were adopted for modeling the failure progress. As a result studies, a convergence ranging between 1% and 6% was obtained between the predicted and experimented failure loads. At the end of the study, it has been discovered that the failure loads, due to increment of the joint angle, cause decrease ranging between 16% and 43%.
Assessing the Effect of Routine Activity Theory and Self-Control on Property, Personal, and Sexual Assault Victimization
Authors: Franklin Cortney A. , Franklin Travis W. , Nobles Matt R. , Kercher Glen A.
Published: September 2012

This study used a sample of 2,230 female university students to assess the applicability of routine activity theory and self-control on property, personal, and sexual assault victimization. Results indicate that (a) both self-control deficits and participation in drug sale behavior were significantly correlated with increased property, personal, and sexual assault victimization; (b) increased partying and shopping frequency and off-campus housing significantly and substantively correlated with increased property victimization; (c) off-campus housing was correlated with increased personal victimization; and (d) increased number of days spent on campus and increased frequency of partying significantly increased sexual assault victimization, net of controls. Future directions for the integration of feminist theory and strategies for crime prevention are discussed.
Kinetics modelling of ethylene cracking furnace based on SQP-CPSO algorithm
Authors: Xia Lirong , Cui Yunfei , Gu Xiangbai , Geng Zhiqiang
Published: September 2012

The Kumar molecular reaction kinetics model (proposed by Kumar and Kunzru) is widely used to establish an ethylene cracking model because of its accuracy and simplicity. Parameters of the primary reaction equation are determined definitely by different oil properties and compositions. These parameters include changeable selectivity coefficients and minor-changeable kinetics parameters, which should be optimized in terms of different oils in an actual process. The paper proposes a new optimization algorithm based on a hybrid sequential quadratic programming–chaos particle swarm optimization (SQP-CPSO) to realize two optimal targets: elemental balances of carbon and hydrogen atoms, and minimum product yield errors. The SQP algorithm is to accelerate the local search in the CPSO global optimum process. The SQP-CPSO algorithm first acquires the optimized selectivity coefficients of non-linear kinetics modelling, and then if the elemental balance is not reached, the kinetics parameters are optimized to satisfy both optimal targets. The experimental results exceed the existing methods in its preferable realization of two targets. Moreover, this method has been proven effective and applicable with several kinds of naphtha with different characteristics from a real ethylene plant. The optimized kinetics model is helpful in predicting product yields, and optimizing and controlling operational conditions in an ethylene product system.
The emergence of cyberbullying: A survey of primary school pupils’ perceptions and experiences
Authors: Monks Claire P. , Robinson Susanne , Worlidge Penny
Published: September 2012

There is little research that has examined cyberbullying among children under the age of 11years. The current study explored the nature and extent of the phenomenon among primary school children aged 7- to 11-years-old ( N = 220; 116 boys and 104 girls) and investigated their perceptions of the distress caused to victims, how victims would feel, and their recommendations to victims for coping strategies. Participants completed a modified version of Ortega, Calmaestra, and Mora-Merchán’s (2007) and Smith et al.’s (2008a) bullying and cyberbullying questionnaire. The results indicated that cyberbullying is used and experienced by some children in this age group, with some age and gender differences in these experiences. Cyberbullying is generally viewed negatively and children are aware that it may have a negative impact on the emotions of victims. There is some overlap between involvement in cyberbullying and traditional bullying; with children most likely to take the same role (i.e., traditional bully and cyberbully or traditional victim and cybervictim) across the two settings. The most commonly endorsed coping strategy for victims was to tell someone, which is in line with government guidance to schools. The findings are discussed in relation to research with secondary school pupils as well as addressing potential implications for interventions with this age group.
Administration of clomipramine to neonatal mice alters stress response behavior and serotonergic gene expressions in adult mice
Authors: Kim Jae-Won , Ahn Hyo-Sang , Baik Ja-Hyun , Yoon Bong-June
Published: September 2012

Early life exposure to antidepressants frequently occurs when pregnant mothers take the medication during late pregnancy. Previous studies in animal models have shown that early exposure to certain antidepressants can alter some behaviors in adulthood. We examined whether the administration of clomipramine, a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, to neonatal mice could result in depression-related behavioral alterations in adult mice. In addition, in an attempt to uncover the mechanism underlying these behavioral changes, we examined the expression of candidate genes in different areas of the brain. Here we show that mice chronically injected with clomipramine specifically during early postnatal development demonstrated depression-like behavior as well as altered stress responses in adulthood. An analysis of the expression of serotonergic genes after exposure to social defeat stress revealed small but significant changes in the expression of 5-HT1A receptor gene ( Htr1a) and 5-HTT gene ( Slc6a4) in the mice treated with clomipramine compared with the mice injected with saline. We concluded that antidepressant exposure in early days of life could alter stress-related behavior in adulthood and that the behavioral alterations are accompanied by altered serotonergic gene expressions.
Exploring Family Communication About Sickle Cell Disease in Adolescence
Authors: Graff J.Carolyn , Hankins Jane , Graves Rebecca J. , Robitaille Kimberly Y. , Roberts Ruth , Cejda Katherine , Hardy Belinda T. , Johnson Margery , Porter Jerlym S.
Published: September 2012

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a lifelong disorder that involves progressive organ damage and requires ongoing medical attention to prevent and treat episodic acute complications. Children with SCD need ongoing monitoring and extra attention that may be stressful to family members. Communication within families can help resolve family stress and may be associated with medical follow-up and management of SCD. Focus groups were conducted with 12 African American families to explore the communication that occurred within and outside of the family from the perspectives of adolescents with SCD, siblings, and parents. Factors that influence family communication were explored. The extended family was an important social network and resource to adolescents, siblings, and parents. Family member knowledge of SCD was an important factor that influenced communication about SCD; adolescents and parents communicated more easily than siblings and also reported having more knowledge of SCD than siblings. Future research focusing on the knowledge of immediate and extended family members and their recognition of their contribution to the child with SCD is recommended.
The Use of a Web-Based Course Management System
Authors: Ring J. Kirk , Kellermanns Franz W. , Barnett Tim , Pearson Allison W. , Pearson Rodney A.
Published: September 2012

This article reports the results of two studies that examined (a) students’ intentions to use a web-based course management system, (b) their actual use of a course management system, and (c) the effect of their use of a course management system on classroom performance. We found that students’ attitudes toward the course management system, perceptions of support, and perceptions of their capacity to control their actions each were associated with their intentions to use the course management system. Subsequently, intentions directly influenced actual use of the course management system and greater usage of the course management system had a statistically significant, albeit modest, positive effect on students’ performance in the course. Practical applications of the findings are discussed.
Stepfathers and Noncustodial Fathers
Authors: Gold Joshua M. , Adeyemi Oluwatoyin
Published: September 2012

For the majority of 21st-century children, the traditional experience of “one father at a time” has been replaced by the experience of two fathers (a stepfather and noncustodial biological father) at the same time. Given the inadequate institutionalization of either fathering role, this literature review encapsulates common defining themes and concerns. The implications of these results for family counselors seeking to intervene with stepfamilies, and their constituent components, are offered as are possibilities for future research.
Using Social Marketing to Increase Awareness of the African American Infant Mortality Disparity
Authors: Rienks Jennifer , Oliva Geraldine
Published: September 2012

Background. African American infants in San Francisco suffer a mortality rate two to three times higher than Whites, yet prior discussion groups with African American residents suggested they were unaware of this disparity. Methods. Social marketing techniques were used to develop and implement three campaigns to increase awareness. The campaign themes were (1) infant mortality disparities, (2) proper infant sleep position, and (3) taking action to reduce disparities. Mediums to carry messages included bus ads, radio ads, church fans, and posters and cards distributed at clinics, daycares, agency waiting rooms, and community organizations. Campaign effectiveness was evaluated using telephone surveys of African Americans. Results. Almost 62% report some exposure to Campaign 1, 48.5% to Campaign 2, and 48.9% to Campaign 3. Chi-square analyses reveal a statistically significant increase in awareness of the disparity (39.6% vs. 62.7%, p < .0005, odds ratio [OR] = 2.5, confidence interval [CI] = 2.1-3.2). Although there was no overall significant increase in knowledge about proper sleep position, respondents who report any exposure to this campaign are more likely to know about sleep position (70.7% vs. 63.8%, p < .0001, OR = 2.2, CI = 1.6-3.2). Conclusions. Social marketing is an effective tool to increase disparity awareness, especially among groups disproportionately affected by the disparity.
Cognitive Profile of the Earliest Stage of Dementia in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Petrova Mariya , Raycheva Margarita , Traykov Latchezar
Published: September 2012

Recently, a strong interest has emerged in recognizing Parkinson’s disease dementia (PDD) at a very early stage. However, the specific profile of the earliest stages of PDD is still unclear and a matter of considerable controversy. The objective of this study was to find out early neuropsychological markers for progression of dementia in this population. Fifty-eight patients with PDD were divided into 2 subgroups on the basis of the Mini-Mental State Examination: very mild and mild. The comparison with 26 normal controls shows that very mild PDD had deficits on attention/executive functions, naming, visuospatial/constructional abilities and retrieval of the episodic memory. Patients with mild PDD showed additional deficits on coding of episodic memory. Moreover, we found that in this early stage of PDD, the progression of dementia is mainly related to deterioration of attention/executive functions as well as retrieval and coding of episodic memory.
In vivo roles of factor XII
Authors: Renné Thomas , Schmaier Alvin H. , Nickel Katrin F. , Blombäck Margareta , Maas Coen
Published: September 2012

Coagulation factor XII (FXII, Hageman factor, EC = 3.4.21.38) is the zymogen of the serine protease, factor XIIa (FXIIa). FXII is converted to FXIIa through autoactivation induced by “contact” to charged surfaces. FXIIa is of crucial importance for fibrin formation in vitro, but deficiency in the protease is not associated with excessive bleeding. For decades, FXII was considered to have no function for coagulation in vivo. Our laboratory developed the first murine knockout model of FXII. Consistent with their human counterparts, FXII−/− mice have a normal hemostatic capacity. However, thrombus formation in FXII−/− mice is largely defective, and the animals are protected from experimental cerebral ischemia and pulmonary embolism. This murine model has created new interest in FXII because it raises the possibility for safe anticoagulation, which targets thrombosis without influence on hemostasis. We recently have identified platelet polyphosphate (an inorganic polymer) and mast cell heparin as in vivo FXII activators with implications on the initiation of thrombosis and edema during hypersensitivity reactions. Independent of its protease activity, FXII exerts mitogenic activity with implications for angiogenesis. The goal of this review is to summarize the in vivo functions of FXII, with special focus to its functions in thrombosis and vascular biology.
High abundance of Serine/Threonine-rich regions predicted to be hyper-O-glycosylated in the secretory proteins coded by eight fungal genomes
Authors: González Mario , Brito Nélida , González Celedonio
Published: September 2012

Background

O-glycosylation of secretory proteins has been found to be an important factor in fungal biology and virulence. It consists in the addition of short glycosidic chains to Ser or Thr residues in the protein backbone via O-glycosidic bonds. Secretory proteins in fungi frequently display Ser/Thr rich regions that could be sites of extensive O-glycosylation. We have analyzed in silico the complete sets of putatively secretory proteins coded by eight fungal genomes (Botrytis cinerea, Magnaporthe grisea, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Ustilago maydis, Aspergillus nidulans, Neurospora crassa, Trichoderma reesei, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) in search of Ser/Thr-rich regions as well as regions predicted to be highly O-glycosylated by NetOGlyc (http://www.cbs.dtu.dk).

Results

By comparison with experimental data, NetOGlyc was found to overestimate the number of O- glycosylation sites in fungi by a factor of 1.5, but to be quite reliable in the prediction of highly O- glycosylated regions. About half of secretory proteins have at least one Ser/Thr-rich region, with a Ser/Thr content of at least 40% over an average length of 40 amino acids. Most secretory proteins in filamentous fungi were predicted to be O-glycosylated, sometimes in dozens or even hundreds of sites. Residues predicted to be O-glycosylated have a tendency to be grouped together forming hyper-O-glycosylated regions of varying length.

Conclusions

About one fourth of secretory fungal proteins were predicted to have at least one hyper-O-glycosylated region, which consists of 45 amino acids on average and displays at least one O- glycosylated Ser or Thr every four residues. These putative highly O-glycosylated regions can be found anywhere along the proteins but have a slight tendency to be at either one of the two ends.
Cardiovascular determinants of prognosis in normotensive hemodialysis patients
Authors: Yu Wen-Chung , Lin Yao-Ping , Chuang Shao-Yuan , Lin I-Feng , Chenb Chen-Huan
Published: September 2012

Background

Normotension has been hold to be the goal of hemodialysis. It remains obscure which cardiovascular parameter determines the prognosis in these normotensive hemodialysis patients.

Methods

We prospectively enrolled 145 hemodialysis patients, who had attained normotension without anti-hypertensive medications, and followed them for 72.6 ± 28.5 months. Important cardiovascular parameters were obtained at enrollment. Predictors for all-cause and cardiovascular mortalities were identified with the Cox model.

Results

There were 45 (18 cardiovascular/27 non-cardiovascular) deaths occurred during follow-up. Age, diabetes, left ventricular mass index (LVMI), left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT), and aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) were significant predictors for all-cause and cardiovascular mortalities. After adjustment for age and diabetes, only LVEF was significantly associated with all-cause mortality. LVEF was significantly associated with cardiovascular mortality. LVEF remained as a significant independent predictor of cardiovascular death after adjusting for age, diabetes, LVMI, CIMT, or PWV, respectively.

Conclusion

LVEF is the independent predictor for all-cause and cardiovascular mortalities in the normotensive hemodialysis patients.
A comparison of Direct sequencing, Pyrosequencing, High resolution melting analysis, TheraScreen DxS, and the K-ras StripAssay for detecting KRAS mutations in non small cell lung carcinomas
Authors: Jancik Sylwia , Drabek Jiri , Berkovcova Jitka , Xu Yong Zhong , Stankova Marcela , Klein Jiri , Kolek Vitezslav , Skarda Josef , Tichy Tomas , Grygarkova Ivona , Radzioch Danuta , Hajduch Marian
Published: September 2012

Background

It is mandatory to confirm the absence of mutations in the KRAS gene before treating metastatic colorectal cancers with epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors, and similar regulations are being considered for non-small cell lung carcinomas (NSCLC) and other tumor types. Routine diagnosis of KRAS mutations in NSCLC is challenging because of compromised quantity and quality of biological material. Although there are several methods available for detecting mutations in KRAS, there is little comparative data regarding their analytical performance, economic merits, and workflow parameters.

Methods

We compared the specificity, sensitivity, cost, and working time of five methods using 131 frozen NSCLC tissue samples. We extracted genomic DNA from the samples and compared the performance of Sanger cycle sequencing, Pyrosequencing, High-resolution melting analysis (HRM), and the Conformité Européenne (CE)-marked TheraScreen DxS and K-ras StripAssay kits.

Results and conclusions

Our results demonstrate that TheraScreen DxS and the StripAssay, in that order, were most effective at diagnosing mutations in KRAS. However, there were still unsatisfactory disagreements between them for 6.1% of all samples tested. Despite this, our findings are likely to assist molecular biologists in making rational decisions when selecting a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective method for detecting KRAS mutations in heterogeneous clinical tumor samples.
Acute adrenal failure as the presenting feature of primary antiphospholipid syndrome in a child
Authors: Improda Nicola , Alessio Maria , Capalbo Donatella , Russo Giustina , D’Acunzo Ida , Palamaro Loredana , Pignata Claudio , Salerno Mariacarolina
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is characterized by recurrent arterial and venous thrombosis and detection of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs). This syndrome may be associated with connective tissue disorders, or with malignancies, but it may also appear in isolated form (primary APS). We report on a pediatric patient presenting with acute adrenal failure as the first manifestation of primary APS.

Case report

A previously healthy 11-year-old boy developed fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting. An abdominal computed tomography scan showed nodular lesions in the adrenal glands. He was referred to our Department and a diagnosis of APS and acute adrenal failure was considered, based on positive aPLs (IgG and IgM), elevated ACTH levels and low cortisol levels. Other features were anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated inflammatory parameters, hypergammaglobulinemia, prolonged partial thromboplastin time, positive antinuclear, anticardiolipin, anti-platelet antibodies, with negative double-stranded DNA antibodies. Lupus anticoagulant and Coomb’s tests were positive. MRI revealed a bilateral adrenal hemorrhage. A treatment with intravenous metylprednisolone, followed by oral prednisone and anticoagulant, was started, resulting in a progressive improvement. After 2 months he also showed hyponatremia and elevated renine levels, indicating a mineralcocorticoid deficiency, requiring fludrocortisones therapy.

Conclusion

The development of acute adrenal failure from bilateral adrenal haemorrhage in the context of APS is a rare but life-threatening event that should be promptly recognized and treated. Moreover, this case emphasizes the importance of the assessment of aPLs in patients with acute adrenal failure in the context of an autoreaction.
Nuclear hormone receptors in podocytes
Authors: Khurana Simran , Bruggeman Leslie A , Kao Hung-Ying
Published: September 2012

Nuclear receptors are a family of ligand-activated, DNA sequence-specific transcription factors that regulate various aspects of animal development, cell proliferation, differentiation, and homeostasis. The physiological roles of nuclear receptors and their ligands have been intensively studied in cancer and metabolic syndrome. However, their role in kidney diseases is still evolving, despite their ligands being used clinically to treat renal diseases for decades. This review will discuss the progress of our understanding of the role of nuclear receptors and their ligands in kidney physiology with emphasis on their roles in treating glomerular disorders and podocyte injury repair responses.
Initial experience with the Codman Certas adjustable valve in the management of patients with hydrocephalus
Authors: Watt Sara , Agerlin Niels , Romner Bertil
Published: September 2012

Background

A new adjustable valve, the Codman CertasTM valve for treatment of hydrocephalus was introduced into clinical practice in January 2011. It has 8 different settings with an opening pressure varying from 36 to over 400 mm H2O at a flow rate of 20 mL/h. The 8th setting is designed to provide a "virtual off" function. The objective of this report is to describe the initial clinical experience with the CertasTM valve and evaluate clinical usage with the main focus on the portable adjustment device - Therapeutic Management System (TMS), the “virtual off” setting and compatibility with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Findings

Forty-two patients with hydrocephalus from different etiologies were treated with the CertasTM adjustable shunt system. Data regarding implantation procedures, the use of the TMS system, x-ray imaging, and MRI procedures were recorded prospectively. All patients had clinical follow-up at four weeks after implantation and every three months until a stable clinical condition was obtained.

The mean time for follow-up was 8.6 months (1–16.6). Seventy-one adjustments were performed with the TMS, 12 were problematic. Twenty-nine MRI procedures were performed and did not cause accidental resetting. Five patients were treated with the "virtual off" function for a period.

Conclusions

We found the CertasTM valve valuable in the treatment of hydrocephalus, usability of the TMS was high because it is small and portable, but in some cases we experienced adjustment problems with the first procedures performed by a surgeon, indicating that there is a learning curve. The "virtual off" function provided a possibility of treating over-drainage without the need for shunt ligation or other invasive procedures.