bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High genetic diversity and predominance of Rhinovirus A and C from Panamanian hospitalized children under five years with respiratory infections
Authors: Franco Danilo , Delfraro Adriana , Abrego Leyda , Cano Maria , Castillo Celedonio , Castillo Marlene , Castillo Juan , Pascale Juan , Arbiza Juan
Published: November 2012

Background

Human Rhinoviruses (HRVs) have high genetic diversity and three species have been described: HRV-A, HRV-B, and the recently recognized HRV-C, which has been rapidly identified worldwide.

Findings

In the present study, we report the frequency and diversity of Human Rhinovirus (HRV) strains circulating in Panama from children hospitalized with respiratory infections.

Conclusions

HRVs of species A, B and C have been identified with a predominance of HRV-A and HRV-C over HRV-B, and marked genetic diversity within each species.
Reply to comment on Fisichella et al. (2012), “Intestinal toxicity evaluation of TiO2 degraded surface-treated nanoparticles: a combined physico-chemical and toxicogenomics approach in Caco-2 cells” by Faust et al.
Authors: Fisichella Matthieu , Bérenguer Frédéric , Steinmetz Gérard , Auffan Mélanie , Rose Jérôme , Prat Odette
Published: November 2012

In this response, we discuss the major differences that clearly distinguish our results from those mentioned by Faust et al. In particular, the experiments have been conducted on nanoparticles of different nature, what mainly explains the observed discrepancies. This is a reply to http://www.particleandfibretoxicology.com/content/pdf/1743-8977-9-39.pdf.
Cutaneous Nociceptors Lack Sensitisation, but Reveal μ-Opioid Receptor-Mediated Reduction in Excitability to Mechanical Stimulation in Neuropathy
Authors: Schmidt Yvonne , Labuz Dominika , Heppenstall Paul A , Machelska Halina
Published: November 2012

Background:

Peripheral nerve injuries often trigger a hypersensitivity to tactile stimulation. Behavioural studies demonstrated efficient and side effect-free analgesia mediated by opioid receptors on peripheral sensory neurons. However, mechanistic approaches addressing such opioid properties in painful neuropathies are lacking. Here we investigated whether opioids can directly inhibit primary afferent neuron transmission of mechanical stimuli in neuropathy. We analysed the mechanical thresholds, the firing rates and response latencies of sensory fibres to mechanical stimulation of their cutaneous receptive fields.

Results:

Two weeks following a chronic constriction injury of the saphenous nerve, mice developed a profound mechanical hypersensitivity in the paw innervated by the damaged nerve. Using an in vitro skin-nerve preparation we found no changes in the mechanical thresholds and latencies of sensory fibres from injured nerves. The firing rates to mechanical stimulation were unchanged or reduced following injury. Importantly, μ-opioid receptor agonist [D-Ala2, N-Me-Phe4,Gly5]-ol-enkephalin (DAMGO) significantly elevated the mechanical thresholds of nociceptive Aδ and C fibres. Furthermore, DAMGO substantially diminished the mechanically evoked discharges of C nociceptors in injured nerves. These effects were blocked by DAMGO washout and pre-treatment with the selective μ-opioid receptor antagonist Cys2-Tyr3-Orn5-Pen7-amide. DAMGO did not alter the responses of sensory fibres in uninjured nerves.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that behaviourally manifested neuropathy-induced mechanosensitivity does not require a sensitised state of cutaneous nociceptors in damaged nerves. Yet, nerve injury renders nociceptors sensitive to opioids. Prevention of action potential generation or propagation in nociceptors might represent a cellular mechanism underlying peripheral opioid-mediated alleviation of mechanical hypersensitivity in neuropathy.
Italian Biological Prosthesis Work-Group (IBPWG): proposal for a decisional model in using biological prosthesis
Authors: Coccolini Federico , Agresta Ferdinando , Bassi Andrea , Catena Fausto , Crovella Feliciano , Ferrara Roberto , Gossetti Francesco , Marchi Domenico , Munegato Gabriele , Negro Paolo , Piccoli Micaela , Melotti Gianluigi , Sartelli Massimo , di Visconte Michele Schiano , Testini Mario , Bertoli Paolo , Capponi Michela Giulii , Lotti Marco , Manfredi Roberto , Pisano Michele , Poiasina Elia , Poletti Eugenio , Ansaloni Luca
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Indications for repair of abdominal hernia are well established and widely diffused. Controversies still exist about the indication in using the different prosthetic materials and principally about the biological ones.

Material and methods

In February 2012, the Italian Biological Prosthesis Work-Group (IBPWG), counting a background of 264 biologic implants, met in Bergamo (Italy) for 1-day meeting with the aim to elaborate a decisional model on biological prosthesis use in abdominal surgery.

Results

A diagram to simplify the decisional process in using biologics has been elaborated.

Conclusion

The present score represents a first attempt to combine scientific knowledge and clinical expertise in order to offer precise indications about the kind of biological mesh to use.
The mQTL hotspot on linkage group 16 for phenolic compounds in apple fruits is probably the result of a leucoanthocyanidin reductase gene at that locus
Authors: Khan Sabaz Ali , Schaart Jan G , Beekwilder Jules , Allan Andrew C , Tikunov Yury M , Jacobsen Evert , Schouten Henk J
Published: November 2012

Background

Our previous study on ripe apples from a progeny of a cross between the apple cultivars ‘Prima’ and ‘Fiesta’ showed a hotspot of mQTLs for phenolic compounds at the top of LG16, both in peel and in flesh tissues. In order to find the underlying gene(s) of this mQTL hotspot, we investigated the expression profiles of structural and putative transcription factor genes of the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid pathways during different stages of fruit development in progeny genotypes.

Results

Only the structural gene leucoanthocyanidin reductase (MdLAR1) showed a significant correlation between transcript abundance and content of metabolites that mapped on the mQTL hotspot. This gene is located on LG16 in the mQTL hotspot. Progeny that had inherited one or two copies of the dominant MdLAR1 alleles (Mm, MM) showed a 4.4- and 11.8-fold higher expression level of MdLAR1 respectively, compared to the progeny that had inherited the recessive alleles (mm). This higher expression was associated with a four-fold increase of procyanidin dimer II as one representative metabolite that mapped in the mQTL hotspot. Although expression level of several structural genes were correlated with expression of other structural genes and with some MYB and bHLH transcription factor genes, only expression of MdLAR1 was correlated with metabolites that mapped at the mQTL hotspot. MdLAR1 is the only candidate gene that can explain the mQTL for procyanidins and flavan-3-ols. However, mQTLs for other phenylpropanoids such as phenolic esters, dihydrochalcones and flavonols, that appear to map at the same locus, have so far not been considered to be dependent on LAR, as their biosynthesis does not involve LAR activity. An explanation for this phenomenon is discussed.

Conclusions

Transcript abundances and genomic positions indicate that the mQTL hotspot for phenolic compounds at the top of LG16 is controlled by the MdLAR1 gene. The dominant allele of the MdLAR1 gene, causing increased content of metabolites that are potentially health beneficial, could be used in marker assisted selection of current apple breeding programs and for cisgenesis.
Mammalian Clusterin associated protein 1 is an evolutionarily conserved protein required for ciliogenesis
Authors: Pasek Raymond C , Berbari Nicolas F , Lewis Wesley R , Kesterson Robert A , Yoder Bradley K
Published: November 2012

Background

Clusterin associated protein 1 (CLUAP1) was initially characterized as a protein that interacts with clusterin, and whose gene is frequently upregulated in colon cancer. Although the consequences of these observations remain unclear, research of CLUAP1 homologs in C. elegans and zebrafish indicates that it is needed for cilia assembly and maintenance in these models. To begin evaluating whether Cluap1 has an evolutionarily conserved role in cilia in mammalian systems and to explore the association of Cluap1 with disease pathogenesis and developmental abnormalities, we generated Cluap1 mutant mice.

Methods

Cluap1 mutant embryos were generated and examined for gross morphological and anatomical defects using light microscopy. Reverse transcription PCR, β-galactosidase staining assays, and immunofluorescence analysis were used to determine the expression of the gene and localization of the protein in vivo and in cultured cell lines. We also used immunofluorescence analysis and qRT-PCR to examine defects in the Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway in mutant embryos.

Results

Cluap1 mutant embryos die in mid-gestation, indicating that it is necessary for proper development. Mutant phenotypes include a failure of embryonic turning, an enlarged pericardial sac, and defects in neural tube development. Consistent with the diverse phenotypes, Cluap1 is widely expressed. Furthermore, the Cluap1 protein localizes to primary cilia, and mutant embryos were found to lack cilia at embryonic day 9.5. The phenotypes observed in Cluap1 mutant mice are indicative of defects in Sonic hedgehog signaling. This was confirmed by analyzing hedgehog signaling activity in Cluap1 mutants, which revealed that the pathway is repressed.

Conclusions

These data indicate that the function of Cluap1 is evolutionarily conserved with regard to ciliogenesis. Further, the results implicate mammalian Cluap1 as a key regulator of hedgehog signaling and as an intraflagellar transport B complex protein. Future studies on mammalian Cluap1 utilizing this mouse model may provide insights into the role for Cluap1 in intraflagellar transport and the association with colon cancer and cystic kidney disorders.
Association between water related factors and active trachoma in Hai district, Northern Tanzania
Authors: Mahande Michael J , Mazigo Humphrey D , Kweka Eliningaya J
Published: November 2012

Background

Trachoma is widely distributed in sub-Saharan Africa and is mainly associated with poor water accessibility. However, these associations have never been demonstrated in some of the communities, especially in northern Tanzania. To cover that gap, the present case control study was conducted to assess the association of water related factors, general hygiene and active trachoma among preschool and school age children in Hai district, northern Tanzania.

Results

Families reported to use > 60 litres of water per day were less likely to have active disease (OR= 0.4, 95% CI: 0.1 - 0.3; P<0.001) compared to households collecting ≤ 60 litres. The risk of having trachoma increased with increase in distance to the water point (OR= 6.5, 95% CI; 1.8 - 16.7; P= 0.003). Households members who reported to use < 2 liters of water for face washing were more likely to be trachomatous (OR= 5.12, 95% CI: 1.87-14.6, P = 0.001). Increased number of preschool children in the household was also associated with increased risk of active trachoma by 2.46 folds.

Conclusions

Improving water supply near the households and providing public health education focusing on improving households socio-economic status and individual hygiene especially in pre-school children in part will help to reduce the prevalence of the disease. In addition, integrating public health education with other interventions such as medical interventions remains important.
A sensitive method for rapid detection of alkyl halides and dehalogenase activity using a multistep enzyme assay
Authors: Fabritz Sebastian , Maaß Franziska , Avrutina Olga , Heiseler Tim , Steinmann Björn , Kolmar Harald
Published: November 2012

A method for the detection of haloalkane conversion to the corresponding alcohols by haloalkane dehalogenases is described. It is based on a multistage enzyme reaction which allows for the analysis of alkyl halides in buffered systems. Irreversible hydrolytic dehalogenation catalyzed by haloalkane dehalogenase DhaA from Rhodococcus erythropolis transfers an alkyl halide into a corresponding alcohol that is further oxidized by alcohol oxidase AOX from Pichia pastoris yielding a respective aldehyde and hydrogen peroxide easily detectable via the horseradish peroxidase catalyzed oxidation of chromogenic molecules. Due to its high sensitivity (0.025 mM, 0.43 ppm for 1,3-dibromopropane), low expenditure and the ability of handling a large number of samples in parallel, this method is an attractive alternative to existing procedures for the monitoring of both haloalkanes and dehalogenases.
Acute exercise exacerbates ischemia-induced diastolic rigor in hypertensive myocardium
Authors: Reger Patricia O , Kolwicz Stephen C , Libonati Joseph R
Published: November 2012

Previous studies have shown that acute exercise preconditions the myocardium from ischemic injury. The purpose of this study was to test whether acute exercise protects the hypertensive myocardium from ischemia-induced diastolic rigor, and to compare the response between normotensive and uncompensated hypertensive hearts. Hearts harvested from female Wistar-Kyoto (WKY; n = 24) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR; n = 27) (age:10–12 weeks) were exposed to ischemia (Langendorff isovolumic preparation; 22 minutes of no flow ischemia and studied following prior conditions of: 1) no exercise (WKY-CON, n=8; SHR-CON, n=8); 2) ischemia initiated one hour post-acute exercise (WKY-1HR, n = 8; SHR-1HR, n = 11); and 3) ischemia initiated 24 hours post-acute exercise (WKY-24HR; n = 8; SHR-24HR, n = 8). Acute exercise consisted of one bout of treadmill running at 25 m/min for 60 minutes. Heart weight was similar between WKY and SHR despite elevated in vivo resting systolic blood pressure and rate pressure product in SHR (P<0.05). During normoxic perfusion, left ventricular (LV) Langendorff performance was similar between WKY and SHR over the post-exercise time course. However, during ischemia, LV diastolic rigor was less in WKY vs. SHR (P<0.05). Acute exercise augmented ischemia-induced LV dysfunction one hour post-exercise in SHR (P<0.05), with gradual recovery by 24 hours post-exercise. These data suggest that acute exercise promotes ischemic diastolic rigor in SHR, even prior to the development of cardiac hypertrophy.
Deletion of interferon-γ delays onset and severity of dacryoadenitis in CD25KO mice
Authors: Pelegrino Flavia SA , Volpe Eugene A , Gandhi Niral B , Li De-Quan , Pflugfelder Stephen C , de Paiva Cintia S
Published: November 2012

Introduction

To investigate the role of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) in the onset and severity of dacryoadenitis in the CD25 knockout (KO) mouse model of Sjögren Syndrome.

Methods

CD25/IFN-γ double KO (γDKO) mice were created by crossbreeding CD25KO and IFN-γKO mice. Mice were used at 8, 12, and 16 weeks. Lacrimal gland (LG) infiltrating lymphocytes were characterized with flow cytometry. Tear epidermal growth factor (EGF) concentration was measured with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) evaluated T-cell-related cytokines in LGs. Serum autoantibodies against M3R in LG lysates were detected with Western blot.

Results

γDKO LG showed lower lymphocytic infiltration at 8 weeks than in the CD25KO parental strain (˜20% versus ˜60%, respectively), which increased to CD25KO levels at 16 weeks. Flow-cytometry analysis showed an increase in CD4+ and CD8+ T cells with aging in γDKO LG, similar to that in CD25KO. γDKO had lower levels of interleukin (IL)-17A, transforming growth-factor (TGF)-β1, IL-21, and CCL20, and higher IL-1β and IL-13 mRNA transcripts in the LG than in the parental CD25KO strain. Autoantibodies to M3R were observed in both strains and significantly increased with aging in both strains. CD25KO mice had very low tear EGF concentrations at all ages, whereas the ear EGF concentration in γDKO mice significantly decreased with aging and inversely correlated with the presence of M3R autoantibodies and the degree of LG CD4 and CD8+ T-cell infiltration.

Conclusions

The deletion of IFN-γ in the CD25KO mice strain delays glandular destruction and preserves glandular function. M3R autoantibodies increased with aging in both the γDKO and the CD25KO strains. The decrease in LG function in γDKO correlated with the degree of T-cell infiltration and the presence of M3R autoantibodies.
Y27, a novel derivative of 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-formamide, prevents the development of murine systemic lupus erythematosus-like diseases in MRL/lpr autoimmune mice and BDF1 hybrid mice
Authors: Xiao Zhi-Yong , Chen Shao-Hui , Cheng Jun-Ping , Zhou Wen-Xia , Zhang Yong-Xiang , Yang Ri-Fang , Yun Liu-Hong
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Naturally occurring CD4+CD25+ regulatory T (Treg) cells are central to the maintenance of peripheral tolerance. Impaired activity and/or a lower frequency of these cells lead to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Manipulating the number or activity of Treg cells is to be a promising strategy in treating it and other autoimmune diseases. We have examined the effects of Y27, a novel derivative of 4-hydroxyquinoline-3-formamide, on SLE-like symptoms in MRL/lpr autoimmune mice and BDF1 hybrid mice. Whether the beneficial effect of Y27 involves modulation of CD4+CD25+ Treg cells has also been investigated.

Methods

Female MRL/lpr mice that spontaneously develop lupus were treated orally by gavage with Y27 for 10 weeks, starting at 10 weeks of age. BDF1 mice developed a chronic graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) by two weekly intravenous injections of parental female DBA/2 splenic lymphocytes, characterized by immunocomplex-mediated glomerulonephritis resembling SLE. Y27 was administered to chronic GVHD mice for 12 weeks. Nephritic symptoms were monitored and the percentage of CD4+CD25+FoxP3+ Treg peripheral blood leukocyte was detected with mouse regulatory T cell staining kit by flowcytometry. Purified CD4+CD25+ Tregs were assessed for immune suppressive activity using the mixed lymphocyte reaction.

Results

The life-span of MRL/lpr mice treated with Y27 for 10 weeks was significantly prolonged, proteinuria and renal lesion severity were ameliorated, and blood urea nitrogen, triglyceride and serum anti-double-stranded DNA antibodies were decreased. Similar results were found in chronic GVHD mice. Administration of Y27 had little impact on percentage of the peripheral blood lymphocyte CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Treg cells in both groups of mice. In contrast, the suppressive capacity of CD4+CD25+ Treg cells in splenocytes was markedly augmented in Y27-treated mice ex vivo.

Conclusions

Experimental evidence of the protect effects of Y27 against autoimmune nephritis has been shown. The mechanism may involve enhancement of the suppressive capacity of CD4+CD25+ Treg cells.
Systems analysis of primary Sjögren's syndrome pathogenesis in salivary glands identifies shared pathways in human and a mouse model
Authors: Horvath Steve , Nazmul-Hossain Abu NM , Pollard Rodney PE , Kroese Frans GM , Vissink Arjan , Kallenberg Cees GM , Spijkervet Fred KL , Bootsma Hendrika , Michie Sara A , Gorr Sven U , Peck Ammon B , Cai Chaochao , Zhou Hui , Wong David TW
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS) is a chronic autoimmune disease with complex etiopathogenesis. Despite extensive studies to understand the disease process utilizing human and mouse models, the intersection between these species remains elusive. To address this gap, we utilized a novel systems biology approach to identify disease-related gene modules and signaling pathways that overlap between humans and mice.

Methods

Parotid gland tissues were harvested from 24 pSS and 16 non-pSS sicca patients and 25 controls. For mouse studies, salivary glands were harvested from C57BL/6.NOD-Aec1Aec2 mice at various times during development of pSS-like disease. RNA was analyzed with Affymetrix HG U133+2.0 arrays for human samples and with MOE430+2.0 arrays for mouse samples. The images were processed with Affymetrix software. Weighted-gene co-expression network analysis was used to identify disease-related and functional pathways.

Results

Nineteen co-expression modules were identified in human parotid tissue, of which four were significantly upregulated and three were downregulated in pSS patients compared with non-pSS sicca patients and controls. Notably, one of the human disease-related modules was highly preserved in the mouse model, and was enriched with genes involved in immune and inflammatory responses. Further comparison between these two species led to the identification of genes associated with leukocyte recruitment and germinal center formation.

Conclusion

Our systems biology analysis of genome-wide expression data from salivary gland tissue of pSS patients and from a pSS mouse model identified common dysregulated biological pathways and molecular targets underlying critical molecular alterations in pSS pathogenesis.
Triple-negative breast cancer and PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homologue)loss are predictors of BRCA1 germline mutations in women with early-onset and familial breast cancer, but not in women with isolated late-onset breast cancer
Authors: Phuah Sze-Yee , Looi Lai-Meng , Hassan Norhashimah , Rhodes Anthony , Dean Sarah , Taib Nur Aishah Mohd , Yip Cheng-Har , Teo Soo-Hwang
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Given that breast cancers in germline BRCA1 carriers are predominantly estrogen-negative and triple-negative, it has been suggested that women diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) younger than 50 years should be offered BRCA1 testing, regardless of family cancer characteristics. However, the predictive value of triple-negative breast cancer, when taken in the context of personal and family cancer characteristics, is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether TNBC is a predictor of germline BRCA1 mutations, in the context of multiple predictive factors.

Methods

Germline mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 were analyzed by Sanger sequencing and multiple ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis in 431 women from the Malaysian Breast Cancer Genetic Study, including 110 women with TNBC. Logistic regression was used to identify and to estimate the predictive strength of major determinants. Estrogen receptor (ER) and phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) status were assessed and included in a modified Manchester scoring method.

Results

Our study in an Asian series of TNBC patients demonstrated that 27 (24.5%) of 110 patients have germline mutations in BRCA1 (23 of 110) and BRCA2 (four of 110). We found that among women diagnosed with breast cancer aged 36 to 50 years but with no family history of breast or ovarian cancer, the prevalence of BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations was similar in TNBC (8.5%) and non-TNBC patients (6.7%). By contrast, in women diagnosed with breast cancer, younger than 35 years, with no family history of these cancers, and in women with a family history of breast cancer, the prevalence of mutations was higher in TNBC compared with non-TNBC (28.0% and 9.9%; P = 0.045; and 42.1% and 14.2%; P < 0.0001, respectively]. Finally, we found that incorporation of estrogen-receptor and TNBC status improves the sensitivity of the Manchester Scoring method (42.9% to 64.3%), and furthermore, incorporation of PTEN status further improves sensitivity (42.9% to 85.7%).

Conclusions

We found that TNBC is an important criterion for highlighting women who may benefit from genetic testing, but that this may be most useful for women with early-onset breast cancer (35 years or younger) or with a family history of cancers. Furthermore, addition of TNBC and PTEN status improves the sensitivity of the Manchester scoring method and may be particularly important in the Asian context, where risk-assessment models underestimate the number of mutation carriers.
Good (or bad) vibrations: clinical intuition in violence risk assessment
Authors: Carroll Andrew
Published: November 2012

Assessment and management of the risk of violence in psychiatry inevitably and appropriately draws on emotionally laden ‘intuitive’ modes of thought, as well as deliberative analytic thinking. This article discusses the concept of ‘intuition’ and proposes a brief set of guidelines, derived from work by the cognitive psychologist Robin Hogarth, by which intuitive thinking may be applied by clinicians when undertaking risk assessment work. The guidelines are: consider the learning structure relevant to the risk assessment task; use your own emotions as a source of data; impose ‘circuit breakers' such as cost–benefit analyses and validated structured risk assessment tools; and use a narrative approach to develop formulations. The guidelines are intended to provide a framework for ongoing reflective practice in assessing and managing risk.
Patient experience and psychiatric discourse
Authors: Jacob K. S.
Published: November 2012

Language, concepts and frameworks employed by psychiatrists contrast starkly to those held by patients. Despite the fact that the battle to understand patient experience was won long ago, current biomedical approaches and the DSM culture prevent such understanding. Positioning patient narratives in the foreground will help translate experience, provide legitimate frameworks, create common language and interface for communication, offer powerful insights, influence clinical practice and have an impact on psychiatric theory.
The Health and Social Care Act 2012: what will it mean for mental health services in England?
Authors: Holloway Frank
Published: November 2012

The Health and Social Care Act 2012 brings in profound changes to the organisation of healthcare in England. These changes are briefly described and their implications for mental health services are explored. They occur as the National Health Service (NHS) and social care are experiencing significant financial cuts, the payment by results regime is being introduced for mental health and the NHS is pursuing the personalisation agenda. Psychiatrists have an opportunity to influence the commissioning of mental health services if they understand the organisational changes and work within the new commissioning structures.
Corticotropin-Releasing Factor Receptor Binding in the Amygdala Changes Across Puberty in a Sex-Specific Manner
Authors: Weathington Jill M. , Cooke Bradley M.
Published: November 2012

Corticotropin-releasing factor receptors type 1 (CRF1) and type 2 (CRF2) have complementary roles in controlling the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Because CRF receptors are expressed in sex steroid-sensitive areas of the forebrain, they may contribute to sex-specific patterns of stress sensitivity and susceptibility to stress-related mood disorders, which are more frequent in women. To determine whether CRF receptors vary as a function of age and/or sex, we measured receptor binding in the amygdala of male and female, prepubertal and adult rats. Both receptor subtypes demonstrated age- and sex-specific binding patterns. In the basolateral amygdala and posteroventral medial amygdala, CRF1 binding decreased in males and increased in females after puberty, there, CRF2 binding increased in males and was unchanged in females. In the posterodorsal medial amygdala, CRF1 binding was unchanged across puberty, whereas CRF2 binding increased across puberty far more in males than in females. Binding was lowest overall in the central amygdala; there, CRF1 was unchanged while CRF2 binding increased across puberty only in males. Thus, in all four examined areas across prepuberty to adulthood, CRF2 binding increased far more in males than in females and resulted in significantly more binding in adult males than in adult females. These sex-specific developmental patterns are consistent with sex differences in hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal responsiveness and may thus contribute to sex differences in mood disorder susceptibility.
Social status-dependent modulation of LG-flip habituation in the crayfish
Authors: Araki Makoto , Hasegawa Takuya , Komatsuda Shohei , Nagayama Toshiki
Published: November 2012

Strong stimuli applied to tailfan of the crayfish Procambarus clarkii (Girard) evoked lateral giant (LG) mediated tailflips. When the sensory stimulus was applied repeatedly, the response of LG habituated until it failed to give rise to a spike. We found that this LG-flip habituation was dependent on social-status. With a short interstimulus interval of 5 s, the rate of habituation of the LG in both socially dominant and subordinate crayfish was less than in socially isolated animals. By contrast, with a long interstimulus interval of 60 s, the rate of habituation of subordinate animals was less than both socially isolated and dominant animals. The excitability of the LGs following habituation was also dependent on social status. Following habituation the spike response of LGs recovered within several minutes, however they showed significant depression with a decrease in excitability. With a 5 s or 60 s interstimulus interval, subordinate animals showed longer delays of depression compared to dominant animals. A decrease in the rate of habituation and a delay of depression in subordinate crayfish would be advantageous to maintain an active escape response to evade repeated attacks of dominant animals and a reduced learning ability to adapt to social status.
Forelimb kinematics during swimming in the pig-nosed turtle,Carettochelys insculpta, compared with other turtle taxa: rowing versus flapping, convergence versus intermediacy
Authors: Rivera Angela R. V. , Rivera Gabriel , Blob Richard W.
Published: November 2012

Animals that swim using appendages do so by way of rowing and/or flapping motions. Often considered discrete categories, rowing and flapping are more appropriately regarded as points along a continuum. The pig-nosed turtle, Carettochelys insculpta, is unusual in that it is the only freshwater turtle to have limbs modified into flippers and swim via synchronous forelimb motions that resemble dorsoventral flapping, traits that evolved independently from their presence in sea turtles. We used high-speed videography to quantify forelimb kinematics in C. insculpta and a closely related, highly aquatic rower (Apalone ferox). Comparisons of our new data to those previously collected for a generalized freshwater rower (Trachemys scripta) and a flapping sea turtle (Caretta caretta) allow us to (1) more precisely quantify and characterize the range of limb motions used by flappers versus rowers, and (2) assess whether the synchronous forelimb motions of Carettochelys insculpta can be classified as flapping (i.e. whether they exhibit forelimb kinematics and angles of attack more similar to closely related rowing species, or more distantly related flapping sea turtles). We found that the forelimb kinematics of previously recognized rowers (T. scripta and A. ferox) were most similar to each other, but that those of Carettochelys were more similar to rowers than to flapping Caretta. Nevertheless, of the three freshwater species, Carettochelys was most similar to flapping Caretta. "Flapping" in Carettochelys is achieved through very different humeral kinematics than in Caretta, with Carettochelys exhibiting significantly more anteroposterior humeral motion and protraction, and significantly less dorsoventral humeral motion and depression. Based on several intermediate kinematic parameters and angle of attack data, Carettochelys may in fact represent a synchronous rower or hybrid rower-flapper, suggesting that traditional views of Carettochelys as a flapper should be revised.
Racemization-free Synthesis of Lactide Using an Onium Salt Catalyst
Authors: Ishijima Yuuki , Maruta Yasumi , Abiko Atsushi
Published: November 2012

Synthesis of Ll-lactide with high chemical, diastereomeric, and enantiomeric purities was achieved by depolymerization of oligo(lactic acid) in the presence of an onium salt catalyst.
Emergence of High-density DNA Origami Network by Dewetting with a Binary Solvent
Authors: Hirano Yoshiaki , Ojima Kaoru , Miyake Yusuke , Kawai Tomoji , Matsumoto Takuya
Published: November 2012

We report a novel and convenient method for rapidly preparing and simultaneously immobilizing a homogeneous DNA origami network on a dry mica surface using a binary solvent. This DNA origami network can be easily obtained through a dewetting process using DNA origami species with initial bar structures. This method for inducing the emergence of two-dimensional network structures with high and uniform densities over large areas is highly valuable for quickly building the scaffolding necessary for fabricating molecular nanoscale network devices.
Application of Sodium Poly(aspartic acid) as a Binding Phase in the Technique of Diffusive Gradients in Thin Films
Authors: Liu Yujing , Chen Hong , Bai Fengling , Gu Jiali , Liu Lianli
Published: November 2012

Sodium poly(aspartic acid) (PASP) was investigated for application in the diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) technique as a new binding phase (PASP DGT) for the measurement of Cd2+ in waters. The Cd2+ uptake of PASP DGT increased linearly with time (r2 = 0.9989), with a DGT-labile fraction (Ψ) of 97.57 ± 1.45% in synthetic solution. The Ψ values of Cd2+ were measured in spiked river water (48.65 ± 2.26%) and spiked domestic wastewater (26.71 ± 1.25%). The binding capacity of PASP DGT decreased with increasing ionic strength, whereas it remained fairly constant in the pH range 4–10. The stability constant (log K) of PASP with Cd2+ was 9.28, indicating that PASP can coordinate strongly with Cd2+. The results show that PASP can be used as a binding phase in liquid-type DGT devices for the measurement of Cd2+ in waters.
Investigation of erectile dysfunction
Authors: Patel D V , Halls J , Patel U
Published: November 2012

Erectile dysfunction (ED) represents a common and debilitating condition with a wide range of organic and non-organic causes. Physical aetiologies can be divided into disorders affecting arterial inflow, the venous occlusion mechanism or the penile structure itself. Various imaging modalities can be utilised to investigate the physical causes of ED, but penile Doppler sonography (PDS) is the most informative technique, indicated in those patients with ED who do not respond to oral pharmacological agents (e.g. phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors). This review will examine the anatomical and physiological basis of penile erection, the method for performing PDS and features of specific causes of ED, and will also consider the alternative imaging modalities available.
MRI of the penis
Authors: Kirkham A
Published: November 2012

MRI of the penis is an expensive test that is not always superior to clinical examination or ultrasound. However, it shows many of the important structures, and in particular the combination of tumescence from intracavernosal alprostadil, and high-resolution T  2 sequences show the glans, corpora and the tunica albuginea well. In this paper we summarise the radiological anatomy and discuss the indications for MRI. For penile cancer, it may be useful in cases where the local stage is not apparent clinically. In priapism, it is an emerging technique for assessing corporal viability, and in fracture it can in most cases make the diagnosis and locate the injury. In some cases of penile fibrosis and Peyronie's disease, it may aid surgical planning, and in complex pelvic fracture may replace or augment conventional urethrography. It is an excellent investigation for the malfunctioning penile prosthesis.
Characterizing and Modeling Wind Power Forecast Errors from Operational Systems for Use in Wind Integration Planning Studies
Authors: Hodge Bri-Mathias S. , Ela Erik G. , Milligan Michael
Published: November 2012

An important consideration in wind power integration studies is the role that wind power forecasting will play in simulated high-penetration system operations. As no wind power forecast is perfect, an understanding of the forecast error distributions that are observed in current system operations is important for modeling the forecast errors that can be expected in future scenarios. In this work, we statistically characterize and model the wind power forecast errors from three different operational forecasting systems at multiple timescales. Comparisons are made with two methods that are commonly used in wind integration studies to represent wind power forecasting: the persistence model, and an assumed normal distribution of forecasting errors. A number of model distributions are fit to the operational system forecast errors and the accuracy of the model fits to extreme events is examined in detail.
What would you do?
Authors: Lombardi Jr A. V. , Cameron H. U. , Della Valle C. J. , Jones R. E. , Paprosky W. G. , Ranawat C. S.
Published: November 2012

A moderator and panel of five experts led an interactive session in discussing five challenging and interesting patient case presentations involving surgery of the hip. The hip pathologies reviewed included failed open reduction internal fixation of subcapital femoral neck fracture, bilateral hip disease, evaluation of pain after metal-on-metal hip arthroplasty, avascular necrosis, aseptic loosening secondary to osteolysis and polyethylene wear, and management of ceramic femoral head fracture.
Subcapital fractures
Authors: Callaghan J. J. , Liu S. S. , Haidukewych G. J.
Published: November 2012

Options for the treatment of subcapital femoral neck fractures basically fall into two categories: internal fixation or arthroplasty (either hemiarthroplasty or total hip arthroplasty). Historically, the treatment option has been driven by a diagnosis-related approach (non-displaced neck fractures versus displaced neck fractures). More recently, the traditional paradigm has changed. Instead of a diagnosis-related approach, it has become more of a patient-related approach. Treatment options take in to consideration the patient’s age, functional demands, and individual risk profile. A simple algorithm can be helpful in terms of directing the treatment. Non-displaced fractures, regardless of age of the patient, should be treated with closed reduction and internal fixation. For displaced femoral neck fractures, the treatment differs depending on the age of the patient. The younger patient should be treated with urgent ORIF with the goal of an anatomic reduction. For displaced femoral neck fractures in the elderly, cognitive function should be determined. For those who are cognitively functioning, total hip arthroplasty appears to be the best option. In the cognitively dysfunctional, a bipolar hemiarthroplasty or a total hip arthroplasty with use of larger heads (32 mm or 36 mm) and/or constrained sockets are a viable option.
The influence of obesity on total joint arthroplasty
Authors: Vasarhelyi E. M. , MacDonald S. J.
Published: November 2012

Obesity is an epidemic across both the developed and developing nations that is possibly the most important current public health factor affecting the morbidity and mortality of the global population. Obese patients have the potential to pose several challenges for arthroplasty surgeons from the standpoint of the influence obesity has on osteoarthritic symptoms, their peri-operative medical management, the increased intra-operative technical demands on the surgeon, the intra- and post-operative complications, the long term outcomes of total hip and knee arthroplasty. Also, there is no consensus on the role the arthroplasty surgeon should have in facilitating weight loss for these patients, nor whether obesity should affect the access to arthroplasty procedures.
Short stems for total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Gustke K.
Published: November 2012

The use of short stems has become more popular with the increased interest in less invasive approaches for total hip arthroplasty. The curved broaches and stem can be inserted along a curved track to avoid the abductor attachments. Short stems have the potential of being more bone conserving by allowing for higher neck retention, maintenance of the medial greater trochanter, and preferential stress transfer to the proximal femur.

An initial experience with 500 new short stems (Fitmore, Zimmer Orthopedics) stems used for total hip arthroplasty is reported. No stems have been revised for aseptic loosening.
Articulating antibiotic impregnated spacers in two-stage revision of infected total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Munro J. T. , Garbuz D. S. , Masri B. A. , Duncan C. P.
Published: November 2012

Antibiotic impregnated articulating spacers are used in two-stage revision total knee arthroplasty to deliver local antibiotic therapy while preserving function. We have observed infection control in greater than 95% of cases with functional outcomes approaching those seen in revision for aseptic loosening. Higher failure has been observed with methicillin resistant organisms.
The Biology of Brain Metastasis
Authors: Langley Robert R , Fidler Isaiah J
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

It is estimated that at least 200 000 cases of brain metastases occur each year in the US, which is 10 times the number of patients diagnosed with primary brain tumors. Brain metastasis is associated with poor prognosis, neurological deterioration, diminished quality of life, and extremely short survival. Favorable interactions between tumor cells and cerebral microvascular endothelial cells encourage tumor growth in the central nervous system, while tumor cell interactions with astrocytes protect brain metastases from the cytotoxic effects of chemotherapy.

CONTENT

We review the pathogenesis of brain metastasis and emphasize the contributions of microvascular endothelial cells and astrocytes to disease progression and therapeutic resistance. Animal models used to study brain metastasis are also discussed.

Brain metastasis has many unmet clinical needs. There are few clinically relevant tumor models and no targeted therapies specific for brain metastases, and the mean survival for untreated patients is 5 weeks. Improved clinical outcomes are dependent on an enhanced understanding of the metastasis-initiating population of cells and the identification of microenvironmental factors that encourage disease progression in the central nervous system.
IsoPCR: An Analytically Sensitive, Nested, Multiplex Nucleic Acid Amplification Method
Authors: Søe Martin Jensen , Rohde Mikkel , Mikkelsen Jens , Warthoe Peter
Published: November 2012

BACKGROUND

Nucleic acid tests that can simultaneously detect multiple targets with high sensitivity, specificity, and speed are highly desirable. To meet this need, we developed a new approach we call the isoPCR method.

METHODS

The isoPCR method is a 2-stage nested-like nucleic acid amplification method that combines a single multiplex preamplification PCR with subsequent distinct detection of specific targets by use of isothermal amplification. We compared isoPCR to nested quantitative PCR (qPCR), loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), and nested LAMP (PCR followed by LAMP), for detection of DNA from Candida glabrata. We evaluated the method's multiplex capability for detecting low copy numbers of pathogens commonly involved in sepsis.

RESULTS

IsoPCR provided detection of 1 copy of Candida glabrata, an LOD that was 5-fold lower than a nested qPCR assay (5 copies), while the amplification time was simultaneously halved. Similarly, the LOD for isoPCR was lower than that for a LAMP assay (1000 copies) and a nested LAMP assay (5 copies). IsoPCR required recognition of 6 regions for detection, thereby providing a theoretically higher specificity compared to nested qPCR (4 regions). The isoPCR multiplexing capability was demonstrated by simultaneous detection of 4 pathogens with individual LODs of 10 copies or fewer. Furthermore, the specificity of isoPCR was demonstrated by successful pathogen detection from samples with more than 1 pathogen present.

CONCLUSIONS

IsoPCR provides a molecular diagnostic tool for multiplex nucleic acid detection, with an LOD down to 1 copy, high theoretical specificity, and halving of the amplification time compared to a nested qPCR assay.
Fuzzy logic controller based Shunt Active Filter control strategies for Power quality improvement Using Different Fuzzy M.F.s
Authors: Panda Anup Kumar , Mikkili Suresh
Published: November 2012

Current harmonics are one of the most common power quality problems and are usually resolved by the use of shunt active filters (SHAF). Control strategies (p-q and id-iq) for extracting the three-phase reference currents for shunt active power filters are compared, evaluating their performance under different source conditions. Three-phase reference current waveforms generated by proposed scheme are tracked by the three-phase voltage source converter in a hysteresis band control scheme.The performance of the control strategies has been evaluated in terms of harmonic mitigation and DC link voltage regulation. The proposed SHAF with different fuzzy M.F.s (Trapezoidal, Triangular and Gaussian) is able to eliminate the uncertainty in the system and SHAF gains outstanding compensation abilities. The detailed simulation results using MATLAB/SIMULINK software are presented to support the feasibility of proposed control strategies.
Using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) for Evaluation of Fluid Flow Through a Gate Valve
Authors: Augusto Pedro Esteves Duarte , Cristianini Marcelo
Published: November 2012

Gate valves are the most common valve in industrial plants. However, there is no work in the literature regarding the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to evaluate the fluid flow characteristics and pressure drop in gate valves. The present work evaluated the fluid flow and pressure drop through a commercial gate valve using CFD. The obtained values for the pressure loss coefficient (k) are in accordance to those described in the literature and a power type equation could be used for modeling it as function of the Reynolds Number. Fluid flow behavior through the gate valve highlighted the flow recirculation and stagnant areas, being critical for food and pharmaceutical products processing. The obtained results reinforce the advantages in using CFD as a tool for the engineering evaluation of fluid processes.
Advances in carbon nanotube-noble metal catalyzed organic transformations
Authors: John Jubi , Gravel Edmond , Namboothiri Irishi N.N. , Doris Eric
Published: November 2012

This review article is dealing with heterogeneous catalysis applied to synthetic chemistry using various carbon nanotube-supported noble metals (e.g., ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, silver, osmium, iridium, platinum, and gold).