bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Subthalamic neuronal firing in obsessive‐compulsive disorder and Parkinson disease
Authors: Piallat Brigitte , Polosan Mircea , Fraix Valérie , Goetz Laurent , David Olivier , Fenoy Albert , Torres Napoleon , Quesada Jean‐Louis , Seigneuret Eric , Pollak Pierre , Krack Paul , Bougerol Thierry , Benabid Alim L. , Chabardès Stéphan
Published: December 2010

Objective

Although electrophysiologic dysfunction of the subthalamic nucleus is putative, deep brain stimulation of this structure has recently been reported to improve obsessions and compulsions. In Parkinson disease, sensorimotor subthalamic neurons display high‐frequency burst firing, which is considered as an electrophysiologic signature of motor loop dysfunction. We addressed whether such neuronal dysfunction of the subthalamic nucleus also exists in the nonmotor loops involved in patients with obsessive‐compulsive disorder.

Methods

We compared the neuronal activity of the subthalamic nucleus recorded in 9 patients with obsessive‐compulsive disorder with that of 11 patients with Parkinson disease measured during intraoperative exploration for deep brain stimulation.

Results

The mean subthalamic neuron discharge rate was statistically lower in patients with obsessive‐compulsive disorder than in patients with Parkinson disease (20.5 ± 11.0 Hz, n = 100 and 30.8 ± 15.6 Hz, n = 93, respectively, p < 0.001). The relative proportion of burst neurons did not differ significantly between the 2 diseases (75% vs 73%). Interestingly, burst neurons were predominantly left‐sided in obsessive‐compulsive disorder.

Interpretation

The recording of burst neurons within the nonmotor subthalamic nucleus in patients with obsessive‐compulsive disorder is a novel finding that suggests the existence of deregulation of the nonmotor basal ganglia loop, possibly left‐sided. Potentially, burst activity might interfere with normal processes occurring within nonmotor loops. Ann Neurol 2010.
Noradrenergic enhancement improves motor network connectivity in stroke patients
Authors: Wang Ling E. , Fink Gereon R. , Diekhoff Svenja , Rehme Anne K. , Eickhoff Simon B. , Grefkes Christian
Published: December 2010

Objective

Both animal and human data suggest that noradrenergic stimulation may enhance motor performance after brain damage. We conducted a placebo‐controlled, double‐blind and crossover design study to investigate the effects of noradrenergic stimulation on the cortical motor system in hemiparetic stroke patients.

Methods

Stroke patients (n = 11) in the subacute or chronic stage with mild‐to‐moderate hand paresis received a single oral dose of 6mg reboxetine (RBX), a selective noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging and dynamic causal modeling to assess changes in neural activity and interregional effective connectivity while patients moved their paretic hand.

Results

RBX stimulation significantly increased maximum grip power and index finger‐tapping frequency of the paretic hand. Enhanced motor performance was associated with a reduction of cortical “hyperactivity” toward physiological levels as observed in healthy control subjects, especially in the ipsilesional ventral premotor cortex (vPMC) and supplementary motor area (SMA), but also in the temporoparietal junction and prefrontal cortex. Connectivity analyses revealed that in stroke patients neural coupling with SMA or vPMC was significantly reduced compared with healthy controls. This “hypoconnectivity” was partially normalized when patients received RBX, especially for the coupling of ipsilesional SMA with primary motor cortex.

Interpretation

The data suggest that noradrenergic stimulation by RBX may help to modulate the pathologically altered motor network architecture in stroke patients, resulting in increased coupling of ipsilesional motor areas and thereby improved motor function. Ann Neurol 2011.
Oberflächenchemie Metall‐organischer Gerüste an der Flüssig‐fest‐Grenzfläche
Authors: Zacher Denise , Schmid Rochus , Wöll Christof , Fischer Roland A.
Published: December 2010

Metall‐organische Gerüste (metal–organic frameworks, MOFs) sind eine faszinierende Klasse organisch‐anorganischer Hybridmaterialien. Sie beruhen hauptsächlich auf der klassischen Koordinationschemie und versprechen einzigartige Anwendungen von der Gasspeicherung und ‐trennung bis hin zur chemischen Sensorik, Katalyse oder Wirkstoff‐Freisetzung. Die Erschließung des gesamten Potenzials von MOFs, insbesondere für die Nanotechnologie und Systemintegration, erfordert jedoch ein grundlegendes Verständnis der MOF‐Bildungsprozesse sowie die Fähigkeit, die Bildung dünner Filme und die definierte und orientierte Positionierung von nach Größe und Form selektierten Kristallen und MOF‐Heterostrukturen auf einer Oberfläche zu steuern. MOFs sind typischerweise durch Solvothermalreaktionen gebildete Festkörper, und ihre Kristallisation aus der flüssigen Phase wird durch die Wechselwirkungen der einzelnen Bausteine mit der Oberfläche bestimmt. Hier werden verschiedene Aspekte der MOF‐Oberflächenchemie behandelt.
Sanierung des Grabenoberlichtes der Universitätsbibliothek Würzburg
Authors: Pistora Arthur , Siebert Barbara
Published: December 2010

Das Grabenoberlicht der Bibliothek der Universität Würzburg Am Hubland wurde in den Jahren 1975 bis 1981 nach Plänen des Architekten Alexander Freiherr von Branca erbaut. Dieses wurde als Vorwegmaßnahme der geplanten Gesamtsanierung der Dachfläche im Jahr 2009 bauphysikalisch und statisch saniert.

In Laufe der Jahre kam es zu Glasbrüchen und zu Undichtigkeit in der Konstruktion, die eine Gefährdung für die darunter gelagerten Bücher darstellten. Das Oberlicht wirkte als eine Wärmebrücke mit entsprechenden Beeinträchtigungen für die Besucher und das Personal. So sollte die Konstruktion des Oberlichtes nach über 30‐jähriger Nutzung im Zuge einer Sanierung auf den aktuellen Stand der Wärmedämmung und der Tragsicherheit gebracht werden. Die gesamte Konstruktion des Oberlichtes wurde entsprechend den aktuellen Last‐ und Bemessungsnormen neu nachgewiesen. Zusätzlich wurde für die Verglasung die Anforderung der Durchsturzsicherheit für Wartungs‐ oder Reinigungsarbeiten nachgewiesen.

Restoration of the trench skylight of the University Library in Würzburg. At the library of the University of Würzburg built in the years 1975‐1981, a glass roof had to be replaced. The glass roof has the dimensions of 22,5 m × 7,5 m.

Many glass panes of the roof were damaged in the last years because pieces of shivers fell on the roof from the neighboring fa�ade. A consequence was also infiltrated water which damaged the wired glass. The overhead glazing has an inclination of 30° to the horizontal and consists of 104 double glazing units of which 12 can be opened as natural smoke and heat exhaust ventilators.
Maßanzug — Zu den Anforderungen an objektbezogene baudynamische Messungen von Glockentürmen
Authors: Steiner Josef , Bißwurm Axel , Krubasik Christoph
Published: December 2010

Die dynamischen Eigenschaften von Glockentürmen, insbesondere ihre Eigenfrequenz, sind oft geprägt von einem nichtlinearen Zusammenhang zwischen der Größe der von den Glocken ausgelösten horizontalen Läutekräfte und den dynamischen Reaktionen des Bauwerks. Dies gilt vor allem, wenn geringe Resonanzabstände zu einer erheblichen dynamischen Vergrößerung der einwirkenden Kräfte führen. Bei der messtechnischen Analyse der dynamischen Eigenschaften von Glockentürmen müssen dem Einzelfall angepasste Methoden der Schwingungs‐Anregung eingesetzt werden, die geeignet sind, nichtlineare Effekte aufzuspüren. An problembehafteten Beispielen wird dargestellt, dass für saubere Analysen als Grundlage für wirtschaftliche Instandsetzungsmethoden meistens der Einsatz eines frequenzgesteuerten Unwuchterregers erforderlich ist. Abschließend werden Regeln für dem Einzelfall angepasste Anregungsmethoden von Glockentürmen vorgeschlagen.

Tailor‐made suit — Requirements concerning object‐related structural dynamic measurements of bell towers. The dynamic properties of bell towers, and especially their resonance frequency, are often characterised by a non‐linear relationship between the effect of horizontal forces that are released by the bells and the dynamic reactions of the building. This is particularly true if small resonance intervals cause a considerable dynamic increase of the effective forces. In metrological analyses of the dynamic properties of bell towers, it is mandatory to implement methods of oscillation excitation that are adapted to individual cases and allow for the detection of non‐linear effects. It is shown by the examples of a few problematic cases that the use of a frequency‐controlled shaker is usually required for proper analysis as a prerequisite for cost effective repair tasks. Finally, guidelines for methods of oscillation excitement, suitable for individual cases, are provided.
Compliance descriptors: Analysis and evaluation in terms of therapeutic effect
Authors: Sarem Sarem , Li Jun , Nekka Fahima
Published: December 2010

The aim of this work was to evaluate the performance of various compliance parameters in order to identify those which best assess the impact of compliance on therapeutic issues. We will discuss the particularities and restrictions of these parameters by considering two criteria, namely sensitivity index and reliability, which respectively describe strength and robustness of the relationship between these parameters and compliance. Using real and virtual data, performance analysis of compliance parameters was carried out for drugs whose pharmacokinetic properties govern the time course of their actions. Within this context, it was found that the percentage of taken doses (PTD), the most widely used parameter, poorly performed in the evaluation of the therapeutic impact of compliance. On the other hand, the adjusted percentage of correct doses (PCD*) which we propose here, showed the best reliability, making it the most appropriate parameter for the comparison of different compliance patterns. The percentage of correct doses (PCD) has, in its turn, the highest sensitivity index and thus should be preferred for the assessment of changes in compliance. Hence, a perfect parameter for the evaluation of compliance impact cannot be universally identified since each parameter can have its own characteristic advantages and limitations. The methodology proposed here is general enough to be adapted for similar drug classes to evaluate their compliance descriptors. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Possible Effect From Shear Stress on Maturation of Somatic Embryos of Norway Spruce (Picea abies)
Authors: Sun Hong , Aidun Cyrus K. , Egertsdotter Ulrika
Published: December 2010

Somatic embryogenesis is the only method with the potential for industrial scale clonal propagation of conifers. Implementation of the method has so far been hampered by the extensive manual labor required for development of the somatic embryos into plants. The utilization of bioreactors is limited since the somatic embryos will not mature and germinate under liquid culture conditions. The negative effect on mature embryo yields from liquid culture conditions has been previously described. We have described the negative effects of shear stress on the development of early stage somatic embryos (proembryogenic masses; PEMs) at shear stresses of 0.086 and 0.14 N/m2. In the present study, additional flow rates were studied to determine the effects of shear stress at lower rates resembling shear stress in a suspension culture flask. The results showed that shear stress at 0.009, 0.014, and 0.029 N/m2 inhibited the PEM expansions comparing with the control group without shear stress. This study also provides validation for the cross‐correlation method previously developed to show the effect of shear stress on early stage embryo suspensor cell formation and polarization. Furthermore, shear stress was shown to positively affect the uptake of water into the cells. The results indicate that the plasmolyzing effect from macromolecules added to liquid culture medium to stimulate maturation of the embryos are affected by liquid culture conditions and thus can affect the conversion of PEMs into mature somatic embryos. Bioeng. 2011; 108:1089–1099. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Randomized clinical trial of splenic radiofrequency ablation versus splenectomy for severe hypersplenism
Authors: Feng K , Ma K , Liu Q , Wu Q , Dong J , Bie P
Published: December 2010

Background

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a relatively new treatment for hypersplenism. The results of a randomized clinical trial comparing RFA and splenectomy with 5 years of follow-up are reported.

Methods

Fifty-seven patients with hypersplenism due to liver cirrhosis were assigned randomly (in a 1 : 2 ratio) to splenectomy (19 patients) or RFA (38). The RFA group was subdivided according to the percentage of the spleen ablated: less than 50 per cent (9 patients), 50–70 per cent (18) or over 70 per cent (11). Routine blood tests were performed before and after operation, and total spleen volume and ablated volume were measured by contrast-enhanced computed tomography. The primary endpoint of the trial was recurrence of hypersplenism, assessed as platelet and white cell counts, at 5 years after surgery.

Results

White cell and platelet counts increased rapidly after intervention in both groups. By 36 months after operation peripheral platelet and white cell counts had decreased significantly in the RFA group compared with the splenectomy group, and declined to baseline levels by 48 months. Hypersplenism recurred after 6 months in patients with less than 50 per cent of the spleen ablated. Blood cell count in the splenectomy group and in patients with more than 50 per cent of the spleen ablated decreased with time after operation, but to levels that remained significantly higher than those before operation (P < 0·050). Splenic volume reached its nadir 12 months after RFA and then increased with time.

Conclusion

Splenic RFA represents an attractive alternative treatment for hypersplenism induced by liver cirrhosis, particularly when more than 50 per cent of the spleen is ablated.
Early results from a randomized trial of saphenous surgery with or without subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery in patients with a venous ulcer
Authors:   Swedish SEPS Study Group, Nelzén O , Fransson I
Published: December 2010

Background

The aim was to clarify the role of incompetent perforators (IPs) in venous leg ulcers. This short-term report focused on safety, patient satisfaction and the fate of IPs after subfascial endoscopic perforator surgery (SEPS), or saphenous surgery alone.

Methods

Patients aged 30–78 years with an open or recently healed venous ulcer, and with an incompetent saphenous vein and IPs, were allocated randomly to saphenous surgery alone, or in combination with SEPS. A control duplex scan was performed 6–9 months after surgery, and clinical follow-up was scheduled after 1 week, 3 and 12 months. A standard questionnaire was completed at each clinical visit.

Results

Seventy-five patients were enrolled; 37 had SEPS and 38 had saphenous surgery alone. SEPS prolonged the operation by a median of 15 min (P = 0·003). Duplex imaging revealed significantly more remaining IPs in the no-SEPS group (P < 0·001). Compared with the preoperative scan, significantly more legs were free from IPs in the SEPS group compared with the no-SEPS group (21 of 36 versus 7 of 37 respectively; P < 0·001). There were no other major outcome differences between the groups.

Conclusion

There was no short-term clinical benefit from adding SEPS to saphenous surgery in patients with varicose ulcers and IPs, although SEPS reduced the number of perforators remaining after 1 year.
Multivisceral resection for primary locally advanced rectal carcinoma
Authors: Harris D A , Davies M , Lucas M G , Drew P , Carr N D , Beynon J
Published: December 2010

Background

Pelvic multivisceral resection offers the possibility of cure in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer. This study assessed the clinical outcome and determinants of survival and local recurrence in patients undergoing multivisceral resection for clinical T4 primary rectal cancer.

Methods

This was a cohort study of consecutive multivisceral resections carried out in a single centre from 2000 to 2009. Determinants of local recurrence and survival were examined by means of Kaplan–Meier survival curves and Cox regression analysis.

Results

The study included 42 patients, with a median age of 62 (range 41–83) years, who underwent surgery with a median follow-up of 30 (range 2–102) months. Thirty-one patients had preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Seven patients had rectal resection with en bloc radical prostatectomy. The 30-day mortality rate was zero. Thirty-nine of the 42 patients had a negative circumferential resection margin. The 5-year overall survival rate for those who had complete resection was 48 per cent. Local recurrence was predicted by metastatic disease (P < 0·001) and nodal disease (P < 0·001), but not positive resection margins (P = 0·077).

Conclusion

An aggressive surgical strategy with complete resection is predictive of long-term survival in selected patients with T4a rectal carcinoma. With optimal treatment local recurrence is a sign of systemic disease.
Strategies in quantitative LC‐MS/MS analysis of unstable small molecules in biological matrices
Authors: Li Wenkui , Zhang Jie , Tse Francis L. S.
Published: December 2010

Stability is an important pre‐analytical variable for quantitative LC‐MS/MS analysis of drug molecules and/or their metabolites in biological matrices. Instability of an analyte in any stage of the bioanalytical process, including sample collection, processing, storage, extraction and LC‐MS/MS analysis, can result in under‐/over‐estimation if an adequate preventive procedure is not in place. In the current review on practical strategies in quantitative LC‐MS/MS bioanalysis of unstable small molecules, the common causes of analyte instability were examined. The instability of some analytes is readily predictable because of the presence of certain chemically or biologically labile moieties in the molecules or because the compounds are in an inter‐convertible form, e.g. lactone vs hydroxyl carboxylic acid. However, the instability of many other analytes is not readily predictable. Necessary evaluation needs to be conducted to identify the possible instability issues. The current review highlighted some general considerations and specific approaches for developing a robust LC‐MS/MS method. In particular, incurred samples should be used as part of routine short‐term stability assessment of any unstable analyte during the early stages of method development and validation. This can help unveil any ‘hidden’ instability issues that, if left unaddressed, could lead to the invalidation of a ‘validated’ method. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction of enhancement factor for mass transfer coefficient in regular packed liquid–liquid extraction columns
Authors: Rahbar Ahmad , Azizi Zoha , Bahmanyar Hossein , Moosavian Mohammad Ali
Published: December 2010

Mass transfer coefficients are one of the most important parameters for the design of liquid–liquid extraction columns. The mass transfer coefficients of single drops in a pilot structured packed column have been measured using toluene/acetic acid/water and n‐butyl acetate/acetic acid/water systems. Current research shows that theoretical models have failed to predict mass transfer coefficient precisely and are not reliable for design. In this work an empirical correlation for prediction of enhancement factor is developed. Dispersed phase mass transfer coefficients predicted by the proposed correlation are in good compatibility with experimental results.

Les cœfficients de transfert de masse figurent parmi les paramètres les plus importants à prendre en compte lors de la conception de colonnes d'extraction liquide‐liquide. Les cœfficients de transfert de masse de chaque goutte dans une colonne à garnissage structuré pilote ont été mesurés grâce à des systèmes à base de toluène/d'acide acétique/d'eau et d'acétate de n‐butyle/d'acide acétique/et d'eau. La comparaison entre les modèles théoriques et les résultats expérimentaux de cœfficients de transfert de masse a montré que ces modèles ne sont pas assez précis pour être appliqués à la conception. Dans cette recherche, les facteurs d'accentuation du cœfficient de diffusion ont été déterminés expérimentalement et une corrélation empirique a été atteinte pour le facteur d'accentuation. Les cœfficients de transfert de masse de la phase dispersée qui avait été prévus grâce à la corrélation proposée s'harmonisent bien aux résultats des expériences. © 2010 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Special Issue: Portals for life sciences—Providing intuitive access to bioinformatic tools
Authors: Gesing Sandra , Hemert Jano van , Kacsuk Peter , Kohlbacher Oliver
Published: December 2010

The topic ‘Portals for life sciences’ includes various research fields, on the one hand many different topics out of life sciences, e.g. mass spectrometry, on the other hand portal technologies and different aspects of computer science, such as usability of user interfaces and security of systems. The main aspect about portals is to simplify the user's interaction with computational resources that are concerted to a supported application domain. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Three‐Coordinate [Pt(N,N′‐chelate)(η2‐olefin)] Complexes: Synthesis, Properties and Reactions with Electrophiles
Authors: Cucciolito Maria Elena , De Felice Vincenzo , Roviello Giuseppina , Ruffo Francesco
Published: December 2010

This review provides a survey of the key‐class of Pt0 complexes of general formula [Pt(N,N′‐chelate)(η2‐olefin)]. The main spectroscopic, structural and chemical features are discussed, in terms of electronic and steric properties of the ancillary ligands. The versatile reactivity towards electrophiles is described as a very useful entry to PtII compounds with a wide assortment of ligands, such as halido, hydrido, hydrocarbyl, organometal, organoelement and carbene fragments, in some cases stabilised for the first time by the careful choice of the N,N′‐ligand. Remarkably, the reactions can be an equilibrium, and their relevant thermodynamic parameters have also been collected, thus allowing a thorough discussion of the electronic and steric factors which affect its position.
Molecular and Supramolecular Architectures of Organic Semiconductors for Field‐Effect Transistor Devices and Sensors: A Synthetic Chemical Perspective
Authors: Operamolla Alessandra , Farinola Gianluca M.
Published: December 2010

Organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) are key devices in organic electronics, and their performances largely depend on molecular structure and solid‐state organization of the π‐conjugated compounds used as semiconductors. This microreview reports several examples of materials for OFET devices and sensors, which have been selected to highlight the basic criteria of molecular design together with the synthetic logic driving the development of organic semiconductors. Versatile synthetic methodologies enable to optimize properties by tailoring molecular structures and functionalization, thus playing a key role in the progress of OFET technology, and more in general of organic electronics, which is emphasized in the discussion.
Grignard Reactions in Pyridinium and Phosphonium Ionic Liquids
Authors: Ford Leigh , Atefi Farzad , Singer Robert D. , Scammells Peter J.
Published: December 2010

Alkylpyridinium (10a, R = Me and 10b, R = Et) and tetraalkylphosphonium (19) ionic liquids which possess ether functionality were prepared and evaluated as solvents and co‐solvents for Grignard reactions. Interestingly, reduction of the starting aldehydes to the corresponding primary alcohol was the favored pathway when reactions were conducted in pyridinium ILs 10a, b in the absence an ethereal co‐solvent. However, the same reactions in the phosphonium IL 19 afforded the expected Grignard products in good yield in cases where diethyl ether was present as a co‐solvent.
An Electroactive Versatile Matrix for the Construction of Sensors
Authors: Cortez M. Lorena , González Graciela A. , Battaglini Fernando
Published: December 2010

The strong interaction between a positively charged electroactive polyelectrolyte (polyallylamine derivatized with an osmium complex) with an anionic surfactant (sodium dodecyl sulfate) produces a composite material soluble in organic solvents. The organic solution of this material can be applied on electrode surfaces (gold, graphite), generating a very stable modified electrode. The modified electrode presents a very efficient charge propagation through the film and it can be used in further modifications. As an example glucose oxidase is adsorbed; in presence of glucose, this electrode presents catalytic currents with similar values compared to others built by self‐assembling operations.
Anxiety in anorexia nervosa and its management using family‐based treatment
Authors: Hildebrandt Tom , Bacow Terri , Markella Mariana , Loeb Katharine L.
Published: December 2010

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is characterized by its similarity to anxiety disorders, especially obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD). Family‐based treatment (FBT) has shown promising initial results for treatment of AN in adolescents, yet the precise mechanisms of action are unknown. We present a theoretical argument and model, suggesting that FBT may work via exposure (and habituation) to food and its consumption. First, we review the evidence for pathological anxiety in AN, and suggest a framework for identifying specific anxious triggers, emotions (fear and worry) and avoidance strategies. Second, we briefly review evidence indicating that cognitive‐behavioural therapy (CBT) and specifically exposure in its various forms is most effective for treating anxiety disorders in youth. Third, we consider distinct approaches to exposure therapy based on the pattern of triggers, anxious emotions and avoidance. We conclude that the interventions utilized in FBT share clear similarities to exposure with response prevention, a type of exposure therapy commonly used with OCD, and may work via facilitating habituation to food and eating in one's natural environment. We also highlight how parents facilitate this process in between sessions by effectively coaching their children and facilitating naturalistic exposure to food and related triggers. Options for future research are considered. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Simulated watershed mercury and nitrate flux responses to multiple land cover conversion scenarios
Authors: Golden Heather E , Knightes Christopher D
Published: December 2010

Water quality and toxic exposure science is transitioning towards analysis of multiple stressors rather than one particular environmental concern (e.g., mercury) or a group of similarly reacting chemicals (e.g., nutrients). However, two of the most important water quality constituents affecting both human and ecosystem health today, reactive nitrogen (Nr) and methylmercury (MeHg), are often assessed separately for their independent effects on water quality. With the continued pressure of landscape modifications on water quality, a challenge remains in understanding the concurrent watershed flux response of both Nr and MeHg to such physical stressors, particularly at the spatial scale (regional watersheds) and within the mixed land cover type systems that most decision-making processes are conducted. We simulate the annual average and monthly flux responses of Hg (MeHg and total mercury [HgT]), NO3-N, and runoff to four land cover change scenarios in the Haw River Watershed (NC, USA), a headwater system in the Cape Fear River Basin. Fluxes are simulated using a process-based, spatially explicit watershed Grid-Based Mercury Model (GBMM) and a NO3-N watershed flux model we developed to link to GBMM. Results suggest that annual NO3-N and Hg fluxes increase and decrease concomitantly to land cover change; however, the magnitude of the changes in NO3-N, MeHg, HgT, and water fluxes vary considerably between different land cover conversion scenarios. Converting pasture land to a suburbanized landscape elicited the greatest increase in runoff and MeHg, HgT, and NO3-N fluxes among all four conversion scenarios. Our findings provide insight for multi-stressor ecological exposure research and management of coastal eutrophication resulting from elevated Nr loadings and exposure risk due to elevated concentrations of MeHg in fish tissue. Environ. Toxicol. Chem. 2011; 30:773–786. © 2010 SETAC
Introduction to special issue commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Kalman Filter and 40th anniversary of Box and Jenkins
Authors: Mills Terence C. , Tsay Ruey S. , Young Peter C.
Published: December 2010

This special issue of the Journal of Forecasting jointly celebrates the 40th anniversary of the publication of George Box and Gwilym Jenkins' highly influential book Time Series Analysis: Forecasting and Control, which introduced a robust and easily implementable strategy for modelling time series, and the 50th anniversary of the appearance of Rudolf Kalman's article ‘A new approach to linear filtering and prediction problems’ in the Journal of Basic Engineering, which has had an extraordinary impact in many diverse fields, has led to major advances in recursive estimation, and has introduced the term Kalman filter into the lexicon of time series analysis and forecasting. The huge number of papers published in the Journal of Forecasting that reference these two publications bears testament to their seminal status and long‐lasting influence, making them a natural choice to base a special issue around. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Test Your Memory test: diagnostic utility in a memory clinic population
Authors: Hancock P. , Larner A. J.
Published: December 2010

Background

Test Your Memory (TYM) test is a recently described cognitive test instrument designed to be self‐administered under medical supervision. The pragmatic role of such self‐administered tests in cognitive clinics has not previously been examined. We investigated the diagnostic utility of the TYM as an independent test to differentiate patients with and without dementia at initial clinical diagnostic interview in dedicated memory clinics.

Methods

TYM was administered to consecutive new patient referrals to two memory clinics independent of other tests [Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination‐Revised] which were used to establish diagnoses according to standard diagnostic criteria (DSM‐IV), and results were compared.

Results

In a cohort of 224 patients, 35% fulfilling clinical diagnostic criteria for dementia, TYM proved easy to use and acceptable to patients. Downward adjustment of the TYM test cutoff to ≤30/50, compared to ≤42/50 used in the index study, proved necessary to maximise test accuracy and specificity. Using this revised cutoff, TYM showed comparable diagnostic utility (sensitivity 0.73, specificity 0.88, positive predictive value 0.77, negative predictive value 0.86 and area under receiver operating characteristic curve 0.89) to the MMSE and the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination‐Revised for the differentiation of cases of dementia from non‐dementia.

Conclusions

TYM is a useful screening test in the cognitive function clinic setting, with patients who fall below the designated cutoff requiring further investigation to ascertain a cause for their cognitive impairment. Self‐administered tests such as TYM may be of particular value in situations where clinician time is limited. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PET imaging of brain amyloid in dementia: a review
Authors: Quigley Harriet , Colloby Sean J. , O'Brien John T.
Published: December 2010

Objective

To review the rapidly expanding literature of amyloid PET imaging with particular attention to Pittsburgh compound‐B (PIB) in Alzheimer's disease (AD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), fronto‐temporal dementia (FTD), mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and cognitively normal volunteers.

Design

Literature searches were performed using Medline up to February 2010. Individual articles were then examined for additional references not revealed by automated searches. This yielded 79 articles whose abstracts were read by the authors to select key papers.

Results

Amyloid deposition assessed using PIB‐PET is significantly elevated in AD and DLB compared to controls and those with FTD. In MCI, uptake is often intermediate between AD and normal ageing, and excessive amyloid burden in non‐demented individuals with MCI are likely to represent high‐risk cases. Amyloid deposition appears to be an early event, and as dementia progresses clinical decline seems to be more associated with neurodegeneration than amyloid burden.

Conclusions

PIB‐PET imaging is a sensitive and specific marker for underlying Aβ amyloid deposition and represents an important investigative tool for examining the relationship between amyloid burden, clinical symptoms and structural and functional changes in dementia. Amyloid imaging may also be useful for selecting patients for anti‐amyloid therapies. However, studies have identified PIB‐positive cases in otherwise healthy older individuals (10–30%), limiting diagnostic specificity. Development of biomarkers for investigating other aspects of dementia pathology, i.e. soluble Aβ, tau, synuclein and brain inflammation would further inform our understanding and assist in studying disease‐modifying and preventive treatments in dementia. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activating transcription factor‐2 in survival mechanisms in head and neck carcinoma cells
Authors: Duffey Dianne , Dolgilevich Svetlana , Razzouk Sleiman , Li Lina , Green Ross , Gorti Goutham Krishna
Published: December 2010

Background

Activating transcription factor‐2 (ATF2) is associated with tumor progression but is not well studied in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Its effects in stress and its importance in other survival mechanisms were studied.

Methods

ATF2 expression and nuclear activation were confirmed in HNSCC. After modulation of ATF2, in vitro effects on proliferation and chemosensitivity were studied. Effects on in vivo tumor growth and interleukin 8 (IL‐8) expression were determined. Tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) treatment was used to further evaluate cytokine production and chemosensitivity.

Results

Reductions of ATF2 resulted in significant nuclear p‐ATF2 activation, cisplatin resistance, and augmented IL‐8 expression without affecting in vivo tumor growth. In this setting, TNF increases p‐p38 phosphorylation and chemosensitivity while further enhancing IL‐8 production.

Conclusion

Our data suggest regulatory roles for ATF2 in TNF‐related mechanisms of HNSCC. Its perturbation and nuclear activation are associated with significant effects on survival and cytokine production. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2011
Relationships between rainfall, fog and throughfall at a hill evergreen forest site in northern Thailand
Authors: Tanaka Nobuaki , Kuraji Koichiro , Tantasirin Chatchai , Takizawa Hideki , Tangtham Nipon , Suzuki Masakazu
Published: December 2010

This study used hourly data of rainfall, water captured by a sheltered fog gauge and wind speed as collected at a montane forest site in northern Thailand during nearly 3 years to test the efficiency of the rain‐protected passive fog gauge as a predictor of fog occurrence. To separate possible contributions by wind‐driven rain (WDR) from fog, the maximum rate of water input to the fog gauge during rainless periods (Fogmax) was derived as a function of wind speed. During periods with rain and fog, the fog gauge often produced values above the Fogmax line, suggesting contributions by WDR. The specific conditions of rainfall intensity and wind speed under which this happened were identified and the corresponding data were excluded from the fog data‐set for subsequent reanalysis. Based on the recalculated data‐set, inter‐annual and seasonal variations as well as the diurnal pattern of fog occurrence at the studied forest are described. Fog‐induced canopy drip during rainless periods was only 19·3 mm over the 3 years, being less than 0·5% of total throughfall and ∼33% of the corresponding catch by the fog gauge (58 mm). However, the fog gauge captured nearly 18 times more water (1033 mm) during all times when WDR could reasonably be excluded. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Canopy water balance of windward and leeward Hawaiian cloud forests on Haleakalā, Maui, Hawai'i
Authors: Giambelluca Thomas W. , DeLay John K. , Nullet Michael A. , Scholl Martha A. , Gingerich Stephen B.
Published: December 2010

The contribution of intercepted cloud water to precipitation at windward and leeward cloud forest sites on the slopes of Haleakalā, Maui was assessed using two approaches. Canopy water balance estimates based on meteorological monitoring were compared with interpretations of fog screen measurements collected over a 2‐year period at each location. The annual incident rainfall was 973 mm at the leeward site (Auwahi) and 2550 mm at the windward site (Waikamoi). At the leeward, dry forest site, throughfall was less than rainfall (87%), and, at the windward, wet forest site, throughfall exceeded rainfall (122%). Cloud water interception estimated from canopy water balance was 166 mm year−1 at Auwahi and 1212 mm year−1 at Waikamoi. Annual fog screen measurements of cloud water flux, corrected for wind‐blown rainfall, were 132 and 3017 mm for the dry and wet sites respectively. Event totals of cloud water flux based on fog screen measurements were poorly correlated with event cloud water interception totals derived from the canopy water balance. Hence, the use of fixed planar fog screens to estimate cloud water interception is not recommended. At the wet windward site, cloud water interception made up 32% of the total precipitation, adding to the already substantial amount of rainfall. At the leeward dry site, cloud water interception was 15% of the total precipitation. Vegetation at the dry site, where trees are more exposed and isolated, was more efficient at intercepting the available cloud water than at the rainy site, but events were less frequent, shorter in duration and lower in intensity. A large proportion of intercepted cloud water, 74% and 83%, respectively for the two sites, was estimated to become throughfall, thus adding significantly to soil water at both sites. Published in 2010 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of antihistamine and anti‐inflammatory medication use on risk of specific glioma histologies
Authors: Scheurer Michael E. , Amirian E. Susan , Davlin Stacy L. , Rice Terri , Wrensch Margaret , Bondy Melissa L.
Published: December 2010

Several studies have shown a decrease in glioma risk associated with a personal history of allergic conditions and the medications used to treat the symptoms. However, few studies have been able to examine risk within histological subgroups of glioma. Case–control data from M. D. Anderson Cancer Center and University of California, San Francisco were pooled to conduct the analysis stratified by histological subtype. A risk prediction model considering inflammation‐related variables and antihistamine use was built using logistic regression. Of the subtypes examined, long‐term antihistamine use was associated with increased risk of anaplastic gliomas, especially when length of use was considered in conjunction with history of asthma or allergy. Anaplastic cases with no history of asthma or allergy were 2.94 times more likely than controls to report antihistamine use for 10 years or more; whereas anaplastic cases with a history of asthma or allergy were 2.34 times more likely than controls to report antihistamine use for 10 years or more. Furthermore, anti‐inflammatory medication use was associated with a protective effect against glioblastoma (OR = 0.80; 95% CI: 0.65, 0.99), especially among individuals with no history of asthma or allergies. No statistically significant effects of anti‐inflammatory drugs or antihistamines were evident for the other histological subtypes. Thus, modulation of the immune system by the use of common drugs, such as antihistamines or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs, may contribute to the development of certain types of brain tumors.
Long‐term persistence of systemic and mucosal immune response to HPV‐16/18 AS04‐adjuvanted vaccine in preteen/adolescent girls and young women
Authors: Petäjä Tiina , Pedersen Court , Poder Airi , Strauss Gitte , Catteau Gregory , Thomas Florence , Lehtinen Matti , Descamps Dominique
Published: December 2010

Vaccination against oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) types is one key intervention for cervical cancer prevention. This follow‐up study assessed the persistence of the systemic and mucosal immune responses together with the safety profile of the HPV‐16/18 AS04‐adjuvanted vaccine administered to young women aged 10–25 years. Serum and cervicovaginal secretion (CVS) samples were collected at prespecified time‐points during the 48‐month follow‐up period. Anti‐HPV‐16/18 antibody levels in serum and CVS were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). At Month 48, all subjects remained seropositive for serum anti‐HPV‐16 and ‐18 antibodies. As previously observed, anti‐HPV‐16 and ‐18 antibodies levels (ELISA Units/mL) were higher in subjects vaccinated at the age of 10–14 years (2862.2 and 940.8) compared to subjects vaccinated at the age of 15–25 years (1186.2 and 469.8). Moreover, anti‐HPV‐16 and ‐18 antibodies in CVS were still detectable for subjects aged 15–25 years (84.1% and 69.7%, respectively). There was a strong correlation between serum and CVS anti‐HPV‐16 and ‐18 antibodies levels (correlation coefficients = 0.84 and 0.90 at Month 48, respectively) supporting the hypothesis of transudation or exudation of serum immunoglobulin G antibodies through the cervical epithelium. The HPV‐16/18 AS04‐adjuvanted vaccine had a clinically acceptable safety profile. In conclusion, this follow‐up study shows that the HPV‐16/18 AS04‐adjuvanted vaccine administered to preteen/adolescents girls and young women induces long‐term systemic and mucosal immune response and has a clinically acceptable safety profile up to 4 years after the first vaccine dose.
Biochemical studies on Helicobacter pylori arginase: Insight into the difference in activity compared to other arginases
Authors: Srivastava Abhishek , Sau Apurba Kumar
Published: December 2010

Arginase is a binuclear Mn2+‐metalloenzyme of urea cycle that catalyzes the conversion of L‐arginine to L‐ornithine and urea. Unlike other arginases, the Helicobacter pylori enzyme is selective for Co2+, and has lower catalytic activity. To understand the differences in the biochemical properties as well as activity compared to other arginases, we carried out a detailed investigation of different metal reconstituted H. pylori arginases that includes steady‐state kinetics, fluorescence measurement, pH‐dependent and oligomerization assays. Unlike other arginases (except human at physiological pH), the Co2+‐ and Mn2+‐reconstituted H. pylori enzymes exhibit cooperative mechanism of arginine hydrolysis, and undergo self‐association and activation with increasing concentrations. Analytical gel‐filtration assays in conjunction with the kinetic data showed that the protein exists as a mixture of monomer and dimer with monomer being the major form (other arginases exclusively exist as a trimer or hexamer) but the dimer is associated with higher catalytic activity. The proportion of dimer is found to decrease with increasing salt concentrations indicating that salt bridges play important roles in dimerization of the protein. Furthermore, the fluorescence measurement showed that Co2+ ions play an important role in the local tertiary structure of the protein than Mn2+. This is consistent with the pH‐dependent studies where the Co2+‐enzyme showed a single ionization compared to the double in the Mn2+‐enzyme. Thus, this study presents the detailed biochemical and spectroscopic investigations into the differences in the biochemical properties and activity between H. pylori and other arginases. © 2010 IUBMB IUBMB Life, 62(12): 906–915
A role for human neuroglobin in apoptosis
Authors: Brittain Thomas , Skommer Joanna , Henty Kristen , Birch Nigel , Raychaudhuri Subhadip
Published: December 2010

Over the past decade, following the discovery of the human heme protein neuroglobin, many studies have searched for evidence for this protein's mechanism of action. Much data has accrued showing that high levels of neuroglobin will protect cells from apoptotic cell death, following a wide range of challenges. Various explanations of its actions, based on measured reactivity with oxygen, nitric oxide, or free radicals, have been proposed, but none have, as yet, been substantiated in vivo. Following preliminary experiments, it was previously hypothesised that “the central role of neuroglobin in highly metabolically active cells and retinal and brain neurons is to reset the trigger level of mitochondrial cytochrome c release necessary to commit the cells to apoptosis” (I.U.M.B.M. Life (2008) 60, 398). In this article, we review the evidence, which has accumulated to support this hypothesised mechanism of action of neuroglobin and integrate this data, with other reported intracellular functions of neuroglobin, to suggest a plausible central role for neuroglobin in the control of apoptosis. © IUBMB IUBMB Life, 62(12): 878–885, 2010.
Toxicological responses of Cyprinus carpio exposed to the herbicide penoxsulam in rice field conditions
Authors: Cattaneo Roberta , Clasen Bárbara , Lucia Loro Vania , de Menezes Charlene Cavalheiro , Moraes Bibiana , Santi Adriana , Toni Candida , de Avila Luis Antonio , Zanella Renato
Published: December 2010

Cyprinus carpio fish were exposed to penoxsulam (Ricer) in field conditions. The experiment in the rice field was carried out for 7, 21 and 72 days. Oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant profile were studied. The acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme activity in the brain was increased after 7 days and reduced after 21 and 72 days of the experiment in the rice field. The AChE activity in muscle was reduced only after 72 days of exposure. Thiobarbituric acid‐reactive species were increased in the liver, brain and muscle at 7 days of the trial, reduced at 21 days in the brain and unaltered after 72 days of exposure in muscle. However, an increase in this parameter in the brain and liver was observed. Liver glutathione S‐transferase was reduced at 7 days, unchanged at 21 days and increased after 72 days of exposure. Catalase of the liver changed only in the second experimental period, when it was reduced. Liver protein carbonyl was reduced at 7 days and increased at 21 and 72 days of exposure. This study shows long‐term effects of rice herbicide at environmentally relevant concentrations on toxicological parameters in different tissues (brain, muscle and liver) of Cyprinus carpio. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.