bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicted Redistribution of Ceratomyxa shasta Genotypes with Salmonid Passage in the Deschutes River, Oregon
Authors: Stinson Matthew E. T. , Bartholomew Jerri L.
Published: November 2012

A series of dams on the Deschutes River, Oregon, act as migration barriers that segregate the river system into upper and lower basins. Proposed fish passage between basins would reunite populations of native potamodromous fish and allow anadromous fish of Deschutes River origin access to the upper basin. We assessed the potential redistribution of host-species-specific genotypes (O, I, II, III) of the myxozoan parasite Ceratomyxa shasta that could occur with fish passage and examined the influence of nonnative fish on genotype composition. To determine the present distribution of the parasite genotypes, we exposed eight salmonid species—three native and five stocked for sport fishing—in present and predicted anadromous salmonid habitats. We monitored fish for infection by C. shasta and sequenced a section of the parasite ribosomal DNA gene from fish and water samples to determine parasite genotype. Genotype O was present in both upper and lower basins and detected only in steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss. Genotype I was spatially limited to the lower basin, isolated predominately from Chinook salmon O. tshawytscha, and lethal for this species only. Genotype II was detected in both basins and in multiple species, but only as a minor component of the infection. Genotype III was also present in both basins, had a wide host range, and caused mortality in native steelhead and multiple nonnative species. Atlantic salmon Salmo salar and kokanee O. nerka were the least susceptible to infection by any genotype of C. shasta. Our findings confirmed the host-specific patterns of C. shasta infections and indicated that passage of Chinook salmon would probably spread genotype I into the upper Deschutes River basin, but with little risk to native salmonid populations.

Received April 20, 2012; accepted July 19, 2012
Challenging the use of adult neuropsychological models for explaining neurodevelopmental disorders: Developed versus developing brains
Authors: Karmiloff-Smith Annette
Published: November 2012

In this paper, I contrast approaches from adult neuropsychology that seek selective, domain-specific deficits with approaches aimed at understanding the dynamics of developmental trajectories in children with genetic disorders. I stress the crucial difference between develop ed brains damaged in their mature state, and atypically develop ing brains. I also challenge the search for single genes to explain selective cognitive-level outcomes. Throughout, the paper argues that it is critical to trace cognitive-level deficits back to their basic-level processes in infancy, where genes are likely to exert their early influences, if we are to understand both the impairments and proficiencies displayed in children with neurodevelopmental disorders.
A novel motif in the yeast mitochondrial dynamin Dnm1 is essential for adaptor binding and membrane recruitment
Authors: Bui Huyen T. , Karren Mary A. , Bhar Debjani , Shaw Janet M.
Published: November 2012

To initiate mitochondrial fission, dynamin-related proteins (DRPs) must bind specific adaptors on the outer mitochondrial membrane. The structural features underlying this interaction are poorly understood. Using yeast as a model, we show that the Insert B domain of the Dnm1 guanosine triphosphatase (a DRP) contains a novel motif required for association with the mitochondrial adaptor Mdv1. Mutation of this conserved motif specifically disrupted Dnm1–Mdv1 interactions, blocking Dnm1 recruitment and mitochondrial fission. Suppressor mutations in Mdv1 that restored Dnm1–Mdv1 interactions and fission identified potential protein-binding interfaces on the Mdv1 β-propeller domain. These results define the first known function for Insert B in DRP–adaptor interactions. Based on the variability of Insert B sequences and adaptor proteins, we propose that Insert B domains and mitochondrial adaptors have coevolved to meet the unique requirements for mitochondrial fission of different organisms.
Effect of thermal conduction on pressure-driven modes in the reversed-field pinch
Authors: Mirza Ahmed Akram , Scheffel Jan , Johnson Thomas
Published: November 2012

Classical linearized resistive magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) stability theory predicts unstable pressure-driven modes even at low plasma beta values for the reversed-field pinch (RFP) because of its unfavourable curvature and strong poloidal magnetic field. These resistive g-modes undermine energy confinement and are detrimental to the RFP reactor potential. In the analysis, one aspect is common, which is the usage of the adiabatic energy equation, ignoring the contribution due to thermal conduction effects. However, in recent analysis, stabilization of pressure-driven modes is demonstrated through inclusion of thermal conductivity. In this paper, we compare the results obtained from both classical and thermal conduction modified boundary layer stability analysis with those from a time-spectral resistive linearized MHD code. Ohmic heating and thermal conduction effects are included in the calculations. We have found that thermal conduction effects stabilize pressure-driven resistive g-modes only for very low values of plasma beta. In addition, analytical and numerical investigation of the equilibrium reveal that, for reactor relevant values of S
0 and tearing stable plasmas, the scaling

for the growth rate of these modes is weaker than that for the adiabatic case

.
Nanostructured magnesium increases bone cell density
Authors: Weng Lucy , Webster Thomas J
Published: November 2012

Magnesium has attracted some attention in orthopedics due to its biodegradability and mechanical properties. Since magnesium is an essential natural mineral for bone growth, it can be expected that as a biomaterial, it would support bone formation. However, upon degradation in the body, magnesium releases OH− which results in an alkaline pH that can be detrimental to cell density (for example, osteoblasts or bone forming cells). For this reason, modification of magnesium may be necessary to compensate for such detrimental effects to cells. This study created biologically inspired nanoscale surface features on magnesium by soaking magnesium in various concentrations of NaOH (from 1 to 10 N) and for various periods of time (from 10 to 30 min). The results provided the first evidence of increased roughness, surface energy, and consequently greater osteoblast adhesion, after 4 h as well as density up to 7 days on magnesium treated with any concentration of NaOH for any length of time compared to untreated controls. For these reasons, this study suggests that soaking magnesium in NaOH could be an inexpensive, simple and effective manner to promote osteoblast functions for numerous orthopedic applications and, thus, should be further studied.
New Sources of Resistance in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) Germplasm Are Effective Against a Diverse Array of Potyvirus spp.
Authors: Seifers Dallas L. , Perumal Ramasamy , Little Christopher R.
Published: November 2012

Sorghum is a host to numerous Potyvirus spp. and its germplasm encompasses a wide range of infection responses to these viruses. We determined how 183 mini-core-collection sorghum germplasm accessions responded to mechanical inoculation with Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV) in growth regimes in which they were maintained at 30°C followed by 16°C for 5 days. Accessions that appeared immune to MDMV in this initial screening were evaluated for their response in a similar temperature maintenance regime to mechanical inoculation with MDMV, Sugarcane mosaic virus strain MDB (SCMV-MDB), Sorghum mosaic virus (SrMV), Zea mosaic virus (ZeMV), and Kansas, Nigerian, and Australian isolates of Johnsongrass mosaic virus (JGMV-KS, -N, and -Aus, respectively). In both experiments, MDMV systemically infected all accessions except international sorghum accession number (IS) 7679 and IS 20740. These accessions also proved resistant to MDMV, SCMV-MDB, SrMV, and JGMV-N but both were susceptible to the JGMV-KS and JGMV-Aus isolates. IS 7679 but not IS 20740 was resistant to infection with ZeMV. These observations suggest that IS 7679 and IS 20740 might serve as new sources of resistance to several Potyvirus spp. that systemically infect sorghum.
Regulatory factors for the assembly of thylakoid membrane protein complexes
Authors: Chi Wei , Ma Jinfang , Zhang Lixin
Published: November 2012

Major multi-protein photosynthetic complexes, located in thylakoid membranes, are responsible for the capture of light and its conversion into chemical energy in oxygenic photosynthetic organisms. Although the structures and functions of these photosynthetic complexes have been explored, the molecular mechanisms underlying their assembly remain elusive. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of the regulatory components involved in the assembly of thylakoid membrane protein complexes in photosynthetic organisms. Many of the known regulatory factors are conserved between prokaryotes and eukaryotes, whereas others appear to be newly evolved or to have expanded predominantly in eukaryotes. Their specific features and fundamental differences in cyanobacteria, green algae and land plants are discussed.
Towards elucidation of dynamic structural changes of plant thylakoid architecture
Authors: Anderson Jan M. , Horton Peter , Kim Eun-Ha , Chow Wah Soon
Published: November 2012

Long-term acclimation of shade versus sun plants modulates the composition, function and structural organization of the architecture of the thylakoid membrane network. Significantly, these changes in the macroscopic structural organization of shade and sun plant chloroplasts during long-term acclimation are also mimicked following rapid transitions in irradiance: reversible ultrastructural changes in the entire thylakoid membrane network increase the number of grana per chloroplast, but decrease the number of stacked thylakoids per granum in seconds to minutes in leaves. It is proposed that these dynamic changes depend on reversible macro-reorganization of some light-harvesting complex IIb and photosystem II supracomplexes within the plant thylakoid network owing to differential phosphorylation cycles and other biochemical changes known to ensure flexibility in photosynthetic functionin vivo.Some lingering grana enigmas remain: elucidation of the mechanisms involved in the dynamic architecture of the thylakoid membrane network under fluctuating irradiance and its implications for function merit extensive further studies.
Different labour outcomes in primiparous women that have been subjected to childhood sexual abuse or rape in adulthood: a case–control study in a clinical cohort
Authors: Nerum H , Halvorsen L , Straume B , Sørlie T , Øian P
Published: November 2012

Objective

To compare the duration and outcome of the first labour in women who have been subjected to childhood sexual abuse (CSA) and women who have been raped in adulthood (RA).

Design

Case–control study in a clinical cohort.

Setting

University Hospital of North Norway.

Sample

In all, 373 primiparas: 185 subjected to CSA, 47 to RA and 141 controls without a history of abuse.

Methods

Data on birth outcomes were retrieved from the patient files. Information on sexual abuse was reported in consultation with specialised midwives in the mental health team. Birth outcomes were analysed by multinominal regression analysis.

Main outcome measures

Vaginal births, delivery by caesarean section, operative vaginal delivery and duration of labour.

Results

As compared with controls, the RA group showed a significantly higher risk for caesarean section (adjusted OR 9.9, 95% CI 3.4–29.4) and operative vaginal delivery (adjusted OR 12.2, 95% CI 4.4–33.7). There were no significant differences between the CSA and the control group. The RA group displayed significantly longer duration of labour in all phases as compared with the control and CSA groups.

Conclusions

There were major differences in the duration of labour and birth outcomes in the two abuse groups. Despite a higher proportion of obstetric risk factors at onset of labour in the CSA group, women subjected to CSA had shorter labours and less risk for caesarean section and operative vaginal deliveries than women subjected to RA. The best care for birthing women subjected to sexual abuse needs to be explored in further studies.
Coitus to expedite the onset of labour: a randomised trial
Authors: Omar NS , Tan PC , Sabir N , Yusop ES , Omar SZ
Published: November 2012

Objective

To evaluate the effect of suggesting coitus as a safe and effective means to expedite labour on pregnancy duration and requirement for labour induction.

Design

A randomised trial.

Setting

Antenatal clinic in a university hospital in Malaysia.

Population

Women from 35 weeks of gestation with an uncomplicated singleton pregnancy.

Methods

The advise‐coitus arm was counselled that coitus at term is a safe, natural and effective means to initiate labour and to avoid labour induction. The control arm was told coitus was safe. Both arms were asked to record coital activity.

Main outcome measures

Pregnancy duration and labour induction.

Results

The intervention to delivery interval (mean ± SD) was 3.2 ± 1.4 versus 3.3 ± 1.3 weeks (P = 0.417), with a gestational age at delivery of 39.4 ± 1.2 versus 39.5 ± 1.2 weeks (P = 0.112), and with labour induction rates of 126/574 (22.0%) versus 120/576 (20.8%) (P = 0.666) for the advise‐coitus and control arms, respectively, with no statistical difference between the groups. Coitus prior to delivery was more often reported in the advise‐coitus arm compared with the control arm: 481/574 (85.3%) versus 458/576 (79.9%) (RR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.0, P = 0.019). Also, the median (interquartile range) reported number of coital acts of 3 (2–5) versus 2 (1–4) (P = 0.006) was higher for the advise‐coitus arm. Other pregnancy and neonatal outcomes did not differ between the groups.

Conclusions

Labour onset and labour induction did not differ in the advise‐coitus arm.
Decision aids to improve informed decision‐making in pregnancy care: a systematic review
Authors: Vlemmix F , Warendorf JK , Rosman AN , Kok M , Mol BWJ , Morris JM , Nassar N
Published: November 2012

Background

Rapid development in health care has resulted in an increasing number of screening and treatment options. Consequently, there is an urgency to provide people with relevant information about benefits and risks of healthcare options in an unbiased way. Decision aids help people to make decisions by providing unbiased non‐directive research evidence about all treatment options.

Objective

To determine the effectiveness of decision aids to improve informed decision making in pregnancy care.

Search strategy

We searched MEDLINE (1953–2011), EMBASE (1980–2011), CENTRAL (CENTRAL, the Cochrane Library; 2011, Issue 4), Psycinfo (1806–2011) and Research Registers of ongoing trials (www.clinicaltrials.gov, www.controlled-trials.com).

Selection criteria

We included randomised controlled trials comparing decision aids in addition to standard care. The study population needed to be pregnant women making actual decisions concerning their pregnancy.

Data collection and analysis

Two independent researchers extracted data on quality of the randomised controlled trial (GRADE criteria), quality of the decision aid (IPDAS criteria), and outcome measures. Data analysis was undertaken by assessing group differences at first follow up after the interventions.

Main results

Ten randomised controlled trials could be included. Pooled analyses showed that decision aids significantly increased knowledge, (weighted mean difference 11.06, 95% confidence interval 4.85–17.27), decreased decisional conflict scores (weighted mean difference −3.66, 95% confidence interval −6.65 to −0.68) and decreased anxiety (weighted mean difference −1.56, 95% confidence interval −2.75 to −0.43).

Conclusions

Our systematic review showed the positive effect of decision aids on informed decision making in pregnancy care. Future studies should focus on increasing the uptake of decision aids in clinical practice by identifying barriers and facilitators to implementation.
NS309 decreases rat detrusor smooth muscle membrane potential and phasic contractions by activating SK3 channels
Authors: Parajuli Shankar P , Hristov Kiril L , Soder Rupal P , Kellett Whitney F , Petkov Georgi V
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose

Overactive bladder (OAB) is often associated with abnormally increased detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) contractions. We used NS309, a selective and potent opener of the small or intermediate conductance Ca2+‐activated K+ (SK or IK, respectively) channels, to evaluate how SK/IK channel activation modulates DSM function.

Experimental Approach

We employed single‐cell RT‐PCR, immunocytochemistry, whole cell patch‐clamp in freshly isolated rat DSM cells and isometric tension recordings of isolated DSM strips to explore how the pharmacological activation of SK/IK channels with NS309 modulates DSM function.

Key Results

We detected SK3 but not SK1, SK2 or IK channels expression at both mRNA and protein levels by RT‐PCR and immunocytochemistry in DSM single cells. NS309 (10 μM) significantly increased the whole cell SK currents and hyperpolarized DSM cell resting membrane potential. The NS309 hyperpolarizing effect was blocked by apamin, a selective SK channel inhibitor. NS309 inhibited the spontaneous phasic contraction amplitude, force, frequency, duration and tone of isolated DSM strips in a concentration‐dependent manner. The inhibitory effect of NS309 on spontaneous phasic contractions was blocked by apamin but not by TRAM‐34, indicating no functional role of the IK channels in rat DSM. NS309 also significantly inhibited the pharmacologically and electrical field stimulation‐induced DSM contractions.

Conclusions and Implications

Our data reveal that SK3 channel is the main SK/IK subtype in rat DSM. Pharmacological activation of SK3 channels with NS309 decreases rat DSM cell excitability and contractility, suggesting that SK3 channels might be potential therapeutic targets to control OAB associated with detrusor overactivity.
Astrocytes and absence epilepsy
Authors: Onat Filiz
Published: November 2012

This article is a commentary on the research paper by Yamamura et al., pp. 1088‐1100 of this issue.
Andrographolide protects against cigarette smoke‐induced oxidative lung injury via augmentation of Nrf2 activity
Authors: Guan SP , Tee W , Ng DSW , Chan TK , Peh HY , Ho WE , Cheng C , Mak JC , Wong WSF
Published: November 2012

Background and Purpose

Cigarette smoke is a major cause for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Andrographolide is an active biomolecule isolated from the plant Andrographis paniculata. Andrographolide has been shown to activate nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), a redox‐sensitive antioxidant transcription factor. As Nrf2 activity is reduced in COPD, we hypothesize that andrographolide may have therapeutic value for COPD.

Experimental Approach

Andrographolide was given i.p. to BALB/c mice daily 2 h before 4% cigarette smoke exposure for 1 h over five consecutive days. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and lungs were collected for analyses of cytokines, oxidative damage markers and antioxidant activities. BEAS‐2B bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and used to study the antioxidant mechanism of action of andrographolide.

Key Results

Andrographolide suppressed cigarette smoke‐induced increases in lavage fluid cell counts; levels of IL‐1β, MCP‐1, IP‐10 and KC; and levels of oxidative biomarkers 8‐isoprostane, 8‐OHdG and 3‐nitrotyrosine in a dose‐dependent manner. Andrographolide promoted inductions of glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) activities in lungs from cigarette smoke‐exposed mice. In BEAS‐2B cells, andrographolide markedly increased nuclear Nrf2 accumulation, promoted binding to antioxidant response element (ARE) and total cellular glutathione level in response to CSE. Andrographolide up‐regulated ARE‐regulated gene targets including glutamate‐cysteine ligase catalytic (GCLC) subunit, GCL modifier (GCLM) subunit, GPx, GR and heme oxygenase‐1 in BEAS‐2B cells in response to CSE.

Conclusions

Andrographolide possesses antioxidative properties against cigarette smoke‐induced lung injury probably via augmentation of Nrf2 activity and may have therapeutic potential for treating COPD.
Body fat predicts an increase and limb muscle strength predicts a decrease in leptin in older adults over 2·6 years
Authors: Antony Benny , Jones Graeme , Stannus Oliver , Blizzard Leigh , Ding Changhai
Published: November 2012

Objective

Obesity is characterized by hyperleptinaemia, which is associated with diabetes, hypertension and coronary heart disease. The aim of this study was to determine if body fat and muscle measures predict the natural increase in leptin over 2·6 years in older adults.

Methods

A total of 190 subjects (50% females) aged between 50 and 79 years were selected to perform the serum measurements for leptin. Height and weight were measured and body mass index (BMI) was calculated. Fat and lean mass of the whole body and the trunk were acquired through dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA). Leg muscle strength and handgrip strength were measured using dynamometry.

Results

In multivariable analyses, leg muscle strength was negatively associated with both baseline leptin (β: −0·05 μg/l per kg, 95% CI: −0·08, −0·02) and follow‐up leptin (β: −0·04 μg/l per kg, 95% CI: −0·07, −0·01). BMI, and percentage total fat and trunk fat and their respective change per annum (cpa) were significantly and positively associated with leptin. Lean mass was negatively associated with baseline leptin. Gender‐specific analyses produced similar associations between leg muscle strength, fat measures and follow‐up leptin in males and females.

Conclusion

Besides positive associations between body fat, trunk fat and leptin, we found that leg muscle strength was negatively associated with leptin after 2·6 years in a sample of older population. This suggests that interventions to maintain or increase muscle strength may have a protective effect on hyperleptinaemia.
Prenatal diagnosis of cervical spinal cord compression in chondrodysplasia punctata brachytelephalangic type: A case report and literature review
Authors: Ochiai Daigo , Takamura Kyoko , Nishimura Gen , Ikeda Toshiyuki , Yakubo Kazumi , Fukuiya Tatsuro
Published: November 2012

Chondrodysplasia punctata brachytelephalangic type is a common subset of a heterogeneous group of chondrodysplasia punctata. Most affected children generally do not have significant physical disabilities; however, a small number of patients are at risk of cervical canal stenosis with cervical cord compression leading to serious morbidity and early mortality. Very little is known about the in utero manifestation of severe complications. We report an affected child in whom the Binder phenotype was found on antenatal ultrasound and cervical spinal cord compression on fetal magnetic resonance imaging. Prenatal diagnosis of chondrodysplasia punctata brachytelephalangic type and its complications are beneficial for timely, prompt medical intervention.
Incomplete nonsense‐mediated decay facilitates detection of a multi‐exonic deletion mutation in SGCE
Authors: Xiao J , Nance MA , LeDoux MS
Published: November 2012

Mutations in SGCE represent the major cause of the myoclonus‐dystonia syndrome (DYT11), an autosomal dominant disorder of reduced penetrance. Virtually all affected individuals have myoclonus, which is concentrated in the upper extremities, neck and trunk. Over half of patients have dystonia, usually affecting the neck or arms. SGCE is maternally imprinted. Of the more than 70 SGCE mutations reported in the literature, 18 are large deletions disrupting at least one exon. Therefore, testing for exonic deletions should be considered in individuals with a classic phenotype in whom Sanger sequencing is unrevealing. However, standard methodologies for detection of exonic deletion mutations are expensive, labor intensive and can produce false negatives. Herein, we report the use of cDNA derived from leukocyte RNA to identify a deletion mutation (exons 4 and 5) of SGCE in a family with DYT11. Residual RNA from incomplete nonsense‐mediated decay permitted reverse transcription to cDNA. Breakpoints of the 8939 bp heterozygous deletion were then defined with long‐range polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing. Use of cDNA generated by reverse transcription of leukocyte RNA can reduce the costs associated with diagnostic genetic testing and can facilitate detection of deletion mutations.
Lower limb vascular conductance and resting popliteal blood flow during head‐up and head‐down postural challenges
Authors: Villar Rodrigo , Hughson Richard L.
Published: November 2012

This study hypothesized that central and local reflex mechanisms affecting vascular conductance (VC) through the popliteal artery compensated for the reduction in muscle perfusion pressure (MPP) to maintain popliteal blood flow (PBF) during head‐down tilt (35˚ HDT), but not in head‐up tilt (45˚ HUT). Resting measurements were made on 15 healthy men in prone position to facilitate the access to the popliteal artery, on two separate days in random order during horizontal (HOR), HDT or HUT. In each body position, the body was supported, and the ankles were maintained in relaxed state so that there was no muscle tension, as with normal standing. Popliteal blood flow velocity and popliteal arterial diameter were measured by ultrasound, and PBF was calculated. MPP was corrected to mid‐calf from measured finger cuff pressure, and VC was estimated by dividing PBF by MPP. The MPP in HDT (48 ± 2 mmHg) was ~100mmHg less than in HUT (145 ± 2 mmHg). PBF was similar between HOR (51 ± 18 ml min−1) and HDT (47 ± 13 ml min−1), but was lower in HUT (30 ± 9 ml min−1). VC was different between HDT (1·0 ± 0·3 ml min−1 mmHg−1), HOR (0·6 ± 0·2 ml min−1 mmHg−1) and HUT (0·2 ± 0·1 ml min−1 mmHg−1). In conclusion, the interactions of central and local regulatory mechanisms resulted in a disproportionate reduction of VC during HUT lowering PBF even though MPP was higher, while in HDT, increased VC contributed to maintain PBF at the same level as the HOR control condition.
Multimodality Imaging of Mitral Perivalvular Abscess with Annular Fistula and Preserved Leaflet Function
Authors: Yang Eric H. , Lanks Charles , Shah Sonia
Published: November 2012

A devastating complication of both native and prosthetic valvular infective endocarditis can involve periannular extension, which is associated with increased perioperative mortality and long‐term adverse outcomes. Cardiac imaging, both noninvasive and invasive, is essential to accurately identify the extent and complexity of these infections to perform effective surgical interventional strategies. We present the case of a 62‐year‐old woman who was found to have a perivalvular mitral valve abscess with an annular fistula without evidence of mitral valve leaflet involvement on histopathology, diagnosed by 3‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography, and left ventriculography.
Prognostic relevance of BRD7 expression in colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Wu Wen‐Jing , Hu Kai‐Shun , Chen Dong‐Liang , Zeng Zhao‐Lei , Luo Hui‐Yan , Wang Feng , Wang De‐Shen , Wang Zhi‐Qiang , He Fan , Xu Rui‐Hua
Published: November 2012

Background

BRD7 is a member of bromodomain‐containing protein and was found to be a cofactor of P53. Down‐regulation of BRD7 has been shown in nasopharyngeal carcinoma cell lines and tissues. However, the clinical role of BRD7 in colorectal cancer remains unknown.

Materials and methods

Real‐time PCR, Western blotting analysis and immunohistochemistry were employed to examine BRD7 expression in CRC cell lines/tissues compared with normal epithelia cells/adjacent non‐tumorous tissues. In addition, statistical analyses were applied to evaluate the diagnostic value and associations of BRD7 expression with clinical parameters of patient samples.

Results

BRD7 was down‐regulated in colorectal cancer cell lines and cancerous tissues compared with that in normal colon epithelial cells and adjacent noncancerous tissue samples. BRD7 protein expression was positively correlated with clinical stage (P  <  0·001), T classification (P  =  0·001), N classification (P  <  0·001), M classification (P <  0·001) and pathologic differentiation (P =  0·008). Patients with low/none BRD7 expression had shorter overall survival time than those with higher BRD7 expression. Univariate and multivariate analyses indicated BRD7 expression was an independent prognostic factor (P < 0·001).

Conclusion

BRD7 may serve as a potential prognostic biomarker of human colorectal cancer.
GsmR, a response regulator with an HD‐related output domain in Xanthomonas campestris, is positively controlled by Clp and is involved in the expression of genes responsible for flagellum synthesis
Authors: Liu Yu‐Fan , Liao Chao‐Tsai , Song Wan‐Ling , Hsu Pei‐Chi , Du Shin‐Chiao , Lo Hsueh‐Hsia , Hsiao Yi‐Min
Published: November 2012

In prokaryotes, two‐component signal transduction systems, consisting of a histidine kinase and a response regulator, play a critical role in regulating a range of cellular functions. A recent study suggests that XCC3315, a response regulator with a CheY‐like receiver domain attached to an uncharacterized HD‐related output domain (HDOD domain), plays a role in the general stress response of the Gram‐negative bacterium Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc), the causal agent of black rot in cruciferous plants. Here, we demonstrated genetically that XCC3315, designated as gsmR (general stress and motility regulator), is involved in the expression of genes responsible for flagellum synthesis, including rpoN2, flhF, flhB, and fliC. Site‐directed mutagenesis revealed that Glu9 and Arg100 in the receiver domain and Gly205, Asp263, His287, Trp298 and His311 in the HDOD are critical amino acids for GsmR function in cell motility regulation. The gsmR transcription initiation site was mapped. Promoter analysis and gel retardation assay revealed that the expression of gsmR is positively controlled by the global transcriptional regulator Clp in a direct manner, and is subject to catabolite repression. Our findings not only extend the previous work on Clp regulation to show that it influences the expression of gsmR in Xcc, but are also the first to characterize the expression of this response regulator gene in this phytopathogen. Furthermore, GsmR is the first HDOD‐containing protein of bacteria in which key amino acids have been experimentally identified and characterized.
Invasive grasses, climate change, and exposure to storm‐wave overtopping in coastal dune ecosystems
Authors: Seabloom Eric W. , Ruggiero Peter , Hacker Sally D. , Mull Jeremy , Zarnetske Phoebe
Published: November 2012

The world's coastal habitats are critical to human well‐being, but are also highly sensitive to human habitat alterations and climate change. In particular, global climate is increasing sea levels and potentially altering storm intensities, which may result in increased risk of flooding in coastal areas. In the Pacific Northwest (USA), coastal dunes that protect the coast from flooding are largely the product of a grass introduced from Europe over a century ago (Ammophila arenaria). An introduced congener (A. breviligulata) is displacing A. arenaria and reducing dune height. Here we quantify the relative exposure to storm‐wave induced dune overtopping posed by the A. breviligulata invasion in the face of projected multi‐decadal changes in sea level and storm intensity. In our models, altered storm intensity was the largest driver of overtopping extent, however the invasion by A. breviligulata tripled the number of areas vulnerable to overtopping and posed a fourfold larger exposure than sea‐level rise over multi‐decadal time scales. Our work demonstrates the importance of a transdisciplinary approach that draws on insights from ecology, geomorphology, and civil engineering to assess the vulnerability of ecosystem services in light of global change.
The combined effects of water level reduction and an increase in ammonia concentration on organic matter processing by key freshwater shredders in alluvial wetlands
Authors: Dehedin Arnaud , Maazouzi Chafik , Puijalon Sara , Marmonier Pierre , Piscart Christophe
Published: November 2012

In a global change context, the intensity and the frequency of drastic low flow periods or drought events will most likely increase to a substantial extent over the coming decades, leading to a modification in the abiotic characteristics of wetlands. This change in environmental parameters may induce severe shifts in plant and animal communities and the functioning of ecosystems. In this study, we experimentally estimated the effect of drought and the accumulation of ammonia (NH3) on the feeding activities of three generalist macroinvertebrates (i.e. Gammarus pulex, Gammarus roeselii and Asellus aquaticus) on three types of organic matter: leaves of Berula erecta growing in submerged conditions, leaves of the same species growing in emerged conditions and dead leaves of Alnus glutinosa. We observed a modification in the biomechanical and stoichiometric characteristics of the plants as a result of the emersion of the aquatic plants. This shift produced a substantial decrease in organic matter recycling by invertebrates and in their associated physiological ability (i.e. the energy stores of the animals) to face conditions associated with environmental change. Moreover, the accumulation of NH3 amplified the negative effect of emersion. This snowball effect on invertebrates may profoundly modify the functioning of ecosystems, particularly in terms of organic matter production/degradation and carbon mineralization.
Evaluation of the Liver Fibrosis Index calculated by using real‐time tissue elastography for the non‐invasive assessment of liver fibrosis in chronic liver diseases
Authors: Tomeno Wataru , Yoneda Masato , Imajo Kento , Suzuki Kaori , Ogawa Yuji , Shinohara Yoshiyasu , Mawatari Hironori , Fujita Koji , Shibata Wataru , Kirikoshi Hiroyuki , Maeda Shin , Nakajima Atsushi , Saito Satoru
Published: November 2012

Aim

A rapid and non‐invasive method of detecting fibrosis in patients with chronic liver diseases is of major clinical interest. The purpose of this study was to comparatively investigate the effectiveness of the Liver Fibrosis Index (LF Index) calculated using real‐time tissue elastography (RTE) in patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and patients with chronic hepatitis C (CHC).

Methods

Twenty‐seven patients with biopsy‐proven NAFLD and 93 patients with biopsy‐proven CHC were included. They underwent transient elastography (TE), serum liver fibrosis marker testing and RTE to calculate the LF Index.

Results

The LF Index showed a stepwise increase with increasing histological severity of fibrosis in CHC patients (P = 0.0102), whereas no significant correlation of the LF Index with the histological severity of liver fibrosis in NAFLD patients (P = 0.852). There was a significant correlation between the LF Index and liver stiffness measured by TE in CHC patients (r = 0.319, P = 0.0009). On the other hand, no such correlation was observed in NAFLD patients. While in CHC patients, the LF Index was correlated with the FIB‐4 index, no such correlation was observed in NAFLD patients.

Conclusion

The LF Index calculated by RTE is effective for assessment of liver fibrosis in patients with CHC. On the other hand, it is not useful in patients with NAFLD. This is the first study to compare the clinical usefulness of RTE as non‐invasive assessment of liver fibrosis between CHC and NAFLD. Further investigations are required to refine statistical assessment of RTE.
Effects of stump extraction on saproxylic beetle diversity in Swedish clear‐cuts
Authors: Victorsson Jonas , Jonsell Mats
Published: November 2012

Stump extraction for bio energy is a new forestry activity and before large‐scale implementation occurs, it is important to analyse its consequences. Saproxylic beetles depend on dead trees and stump extraction will reduce the amount of habitat available for this group.

Early warning signs of impending regional species extinctions were looked for in areas where stump harvest has only been conducted for about 3 years. In a paired design (N = 8), the beetle fauna was sampled in stumps on ordinary clear‐cuts and on clear‐cuts from which stumps had been extracted. Sampling in extraction clear‐cuts was possible because 25% of the stump volume was retained. Samples were collected by bark sieving ten Norway spruce, Picea abies, stumps per clear‐cut.

In total, 6959 individuals of 46 species were found. Several early warning signs were seen: stump extraction reduced the number of species per stump and per clear‐cut and reduced the species evenness in individual stumps.

Species at higher trophic levels (predators and fungivores), in particular, suffered negative effects. Stump extraction reduced the number of species of fungivores and facultative predators/fungivores at the clear‐cut level and reduced the relative abundance of predators at the stump level.

These results indicate that if stumps are extracted from a high proportion of the clear‐cuts in a region, the present recommendations of leaving 15–25% of the stump volume will be insufficient for preserving the beetle fauna in the stumps. Further studies are needed to identify levels of stump retention that do not lead to species loss.
Study of Lanthanum Aluminum Silicate Glasses for Passive and Active Optical Fibers
Authors: Litzkendorf Doris , Grimm Stephan , Schuster Kay , Kobelke Jens , Schwuchow Anka , Ludwig Anne , Kirchhof Johannes , Leich Martin , Jetschke Sylvia , Dellith Jan , Auguste Jean‐Louis , Humbert Georges
Published: November 2012

We are reporting onSiO2‐Al2O3‐La2O3glasses—with and withoutYb2O3—suitable for nonlinear and fiber laser applications. We will also be presenting successful supercontinuum generation and fiber laser operation around 1060 nm in step‐index fibers. We optimized the glass compositions in terms of thermal and optical requirements for both a highLa2O3andYb2O3concentration and good compatibility with a silica cladding. We also produced bulk samples, unstructured fibers, and structured fibers with aSiO2‐Al2O3‐La2O3core and silica cladding for this purpose.
The medicines use review in patients with chronic skin diseases: are pharmacists doing them and how confident are they?
Authors: Tucker Rod
Published: November 2012

Objectives

The aim of the study was to explore the range of dermatology medicines use reviews (MURs) undertaken by pharmacists and their confidence in dealing with the provision of advice to patients with skin problems.

Method

A self-completion questionnaire was sent to a random sample of 3500 community pharmacies in England and Wales, UK.

Key findings

A total of 870 pharmacists responded to the survey giving a response rate of 25% (870/3500). Nearly half of respondents (44%, n = 866) had undertaken a dermatology MUR with eczema/dermatitis and psoriasis being the main conditions encountered. The mean confidence score (on a five-point scale) at conducting dermatology MURs was 3.5 (SD 1.0).

Conclusion

Many pharmacists currently undertake dermatology MURs and rate themselves as confident in this role. Further work is needed to establish if such reviews lead to improvements in disease specific outcomes.
Emotional intelligence as a predictor of academic performance in first‐year accelerated graduate entry nursing students
Authors: Fernandez Ritin , Salamonson Yenna , Griffiths Rhonda
Published: November 2012

Aims and objectives.  To examine the association between trait emotional intelligence and learning strategies and their influence on academic performance among first‐year accelerated nursing students.

Design.  The study used a prospective survey design.

Methods.  A sample size of 81 students (100% response rate) who undertook the accelerated nursing course at a large university in Sydney participated in the study. Emotional intelligence was measured using the adapted version of the 144‐item Trait Emotional Intelligence Questionnaire. Four subscales of the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire were used to measure extrinsic goal motivation, peer learning, help seeking and critical thinking among the students. The grade point average score obtained at the end of six months was used to measure academic achievement.

Results.  The results demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between emotional intelligence scores and critical thinking (r = 0.41; p < 0·001), help seeking (r = 0.33; p < 0·003) and peer learning (r = 0.32; p < 0·004) but not with extrinsic goal orientation (r = −0.05; p < 0·677). Emotional intelligence emerged as a significant predictor of academic achievement (β = 0.25; p = 0·023).

Conclusion.  In addition to their learning styles, higher levels of awareness and understanding of their own emotions have a positive impact on students’ academic achievement. Higher emotional intelligence may lead students to pursue their interests more vigorously and think more expansively about subjects of interest, which could be an explanatory factor for higher academic performance in this group of nursing students.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The concepts of emotional intelligence are central to clinical practice as nurses need to know how to deal with their own emotions as well as provide emotional support to patients and their families. It is therefore essential that these skills are developed among student nurses to enhance the quality of their clinical practice.
Utilizing confocal microscopy to measure refractive index of articular cartilage
Authors: WANG K. , WU J. , DAY R.E. , KIRK T.B.
Published: November 2012

This study proposes a method for measuring the refractive index of articular cartilage within a thin and small specimen slice. The cartilage specimen, with a thickness of about 50 μm, was put next to a thin film of immersion oil of similar thickness. Both the articular cartilage and immersion oil were scanned along the depth direction using a confocal microscope. The refractive index mismatch between the cartilage and the immersion oil induced a slight axial deformation in the confocal images of the cartilage specimen that was accurately measured by a subpixel edge‐detection‐based technique. A theoretical model was built to quantify the focal shift of confocal microscopy caused by the refractive index mismatch. With the quantitative deformations of cartilage images and the quantified function of focal shift, the refractive index of articular cartilage was accurately interpolated. At 561 nm, 0.1 MPa and 20 °C, the overall refractive index of the six cartilage plugs was 1.3975 ± 0.0156. The overall coefficient of variation of all cartilage specimens was 0.68%, which indicated the high repeatability of our method. The verification experiments using distilled water showed a minimal relative error of 0.02%.
Orbitofrontal Dysfunction and Medication Overuse in Patients With Migraine
Authors: Biagianti Bruno , Grazzi Licia , Gambini Orsola , Usai Susanna , Muffatti Riccardo , Scarone Silvio , Bussone Gennaro
Published: November 2012

Objective

Orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) dysfunction and poor decision making have been described in patients with chronic migraine and medication overuse. These neurobiological underpinnings might explain dependency‐like behaviors often described in this condition, such as loss of control over painkillers, high rates of relapse after detoxification, and compromised social functioning. We investigate whether the OFC impairment was a persistent trait in migraine, independent of clinical and affective features, a dynamic result of the need to cope with the increased pain and disability, or a temporary consequence of medication overuse.

Methods

For this purpose, we compared 40 chronic migraineurs with medication overuse, 40 episodic migraineurs, and 40 matched healthy controls. The examination consisted of a clinical interview, Anxiety and Depression Hamilton Scales, Severity of Dependence Scale, and Migraine Disability Assessment questionnaire. A neuropsychological assessment of orbitofrontal function was made through the Iowa Gambling Task (IGT). Chronic migraineurs with medication overuse were followed for a year after detoxification.

Results

We found an impaired decision‐making performance among chronic and episodic migraineurs that seems independent of the patients' clinical and affective status. Contrary to the psychiatric and clinical improvement shown 1 year after the detox, CM patients exhibited a persistent IGT deficit. No significant differences in OFC functioning were found between the CM patients who relapsed into medication overuse after detox and those who did not.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest the presence of a persistent OFC dysfunction in migraine as a psychobiologic trait that is not influenced by the presence of medication overuse, the clinical severity of the disease, or the patient's affective status. Further studies are needed to elucidate the etiopathological role of OFC in migraine and medication overuse.
Déjà‐vu all over again: using simulation to evaluate the impact of shorter shelf life for red blood cells at Héma‐Québec
Authors: Blake John T. , Hardy Matthew , Delage Gilles , Myhal Geneviève
Published: November 2012

Background

Since the 1970s red blood cells (RBCs) have had a rated shelf life of 42 days. Recently, studies have suggested poorer patient outcomes when older blood is transfused. However, shortening the shelf life of RBCs may increase costs and lead to greater instances of outdates and shortages.

Study Design and Methods

A simulation method to evaluate the impact of a shorter shelf life for RBCs on a regional blood network was developed. A network model of the production and distribution system in the province of Quebec was built and validated.

Results

The model suggests that a shelf life of 21 or 28 days will have modest impact on outdate and shortage rates. A shelf life of 14 days will create significant challenges for both blood suppliers and hospitals and will result in systemwide outdate rates of 6.64% and shortage rates of 2.75%. The impact of a shorter shelf life for RBCs will disproportionately affect smaller and midsize hospitals.

Conclusion

A shelf life of 28 or 21 days is feasible without excessive increases to systemwide outdate, shortage, or emergency ordering rates. Large hospitals will see minimal impact; smaller hospitals will see larger increases and may be unable to find inventory policies that maintain both low outdate and shortage rates. Reducing the shelf life to 14 days, or lower, results in significant challenges for suppliers and hospitals of all sizes. All hospitals will see an impact on outdate and shortage rates; overall systemwide outdate rates (6% or more) will reach levels that would currently be considered unacceptably high.