bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of antigen‐presenting cells by HDAC inhibitors: implications in autoimmunity and cancer
Authors: Woan Karrune V , Sahakian Eva , Sotomayor Eduardo M , Seto Edward , Villagra Alejandro
Published: November 2011

There is a growing body of evidence to support the use of histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) in the treatment of diverse conditions from autoimmunity to cancer. In this context, HDACi have been ascribed many immunomodulatory effects, assigning novel and promising roles to these compounds. This review summarizes the current observations arising from both pre‐clinical and clinical studies in these pathological conditions. However, it is left to be explained how a single agent can have both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory effects in either physiological or pathological conditions. This question is explored in greater detail by focusing on the effects of HDACi on antigen‐presenting cells (APCs), key regulators of immune activation. In particular, HDACi modulation of molecules involved in antigen processing and presentation, as well as co‐stimulatory and adhesion molecules, and cytokines will be discussed in the context of both professional and non‐professional APCs. Professional APCs encompass classic immune cells; however, it is increasingly evident that other somatic cells, including cancer cells, are not immunologically inert and can display functions similar to professional APCs, a challenging feature that needs to be explored as a potential therapeutic target. In this way, professional and non‐professional APCs can regulate their particular micro‐environmental niche, affecting either a pro‐ or anti‐inflammatory milieu.
Angiogenic properties of the chemokine RANTES/CCL5
Authors: Suffee Nadine , Richard Benjamin , Hlawaty Hanna , Oudar Olivier , Charnaux Nathalie , Sutton Angela
Published: November 2011

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease that is one of the leading causes of death in developed countries. This disease is defined by the formation of an atherosclerotic plaque, which is responsible for artery obstruction and affects the heart by causing myocardial infarction. The vascular wall is composed of three cell types and includes a monolayer of endothelial cells and is irrigated by a vasa vasorum. The formation of the vascular network from the vasa vasorum is a process involved in the destabilization of this plaque. Cellular and molecular approaches are studied by in vitro assay of activated endothelial cells and in in vivo models of neovascularization. Chemokines are a large family of small secreted proteins that have been shown to play a critical role in the regulation of angiogenesis during several pathophysiological processes such as ischaemia. Chemokines may exert their regulatory activity on angiogenesis directly by activating the vasa vasorum, or as a consequence of leucocyte infiltration through the endothelium, and/or by the induction of growth factor expression such as that of VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor). The present review focuses on the angiogenic activity of the chemokines RANTES (regulated upon activation, normal T-cell expressed and secreted)/CCL5 (CC chemokine ligand 5). RANTES/CCL5 is released by many cell types such as platelets or smooth muscle cells. This chemokine interacts with GPCRs (G-protein-coupled receptors) and GAG (glycosaminoglycan) chains bound to HSPGs (heparan sulfate proteoglycans). Many studies have demonstrated, using RANTES/CCL5 mutated on their GAG or GPCR-binding sites, the involvement of these chemokines in angiogenic process. In the present review, we discuss two controversial roles of RANTES/CCL5 in the angiogenic process.
Nuclear envelope influences on cell-cycle progression
Authors: Srsen Vlastimil , Korfali Nadia , Schirmer Eric C.
Published: November 2011

The nuclear envelope is a complex double membrane system that serves as a dynamic interface between the nuclear and cytoplasmic compartments. Among its many roles is to provide an anchor for gene regulatory proteins on its nucleoplasmic surface and for the cytoskeleton on its cytoplasmic surface. Both sets of anchors are proteins called NETs (nuclear envelope transmembrane proteins), embedded respectively in the inner or outer nuclear membranes. Several lines of evidence indicate that the nuclear envelope contributes to cell-cycle regulation. These contributions come from both inner and outer nuclear membrane NETs and appear to operate through several distinct mechanisms ranging from sequestration of gene-regulatory proteins to activating kinase cascades.
Keeping the LINC: the importance of nucleocytoskeletal coupling in intracellular force transmission and cellular function
Authors: Lombardi Maria L. , Lammerding Jan
Published: November 2011

Providing a stable physical connection between the nucleus and the cytoskeleton is essential for a wide range of cellular functions and it could also participate in mechanosensing by transmitting intra- and extra-cellular mechanical stimuli via the cytoskeleton to the nucleus. Nesprins and SUN proteins, located at the nuclear envelope, form the LINC (linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton) complex that connects the nucleus to the cytoskeleton; underlying nuclear lamins contribute to anchoring LINC complex components at the nuclear envelope. Disruption of the LINC complex or loss of lamins can result in disturbed perinuclear actin and intermediate filament networks and causes severe functional defects, including impaired nuclear positioning, cell polarization and cell motility. Recent studies have identified the LINC complex as the major force-transmitting element at the nuclear envelope and suggest that many of the aforementioned defects can be attributed to disturbed force transmission between the nucleus and the cytoskeleton. Thus mutations in nesprins, SUN proteins or lamins, which have been linked to muscular dystrophies and cardiomyopathies, may weaken or completely eliminate LINC complex function at the nuclear envelope and result in impaired intracellular force transmission, thereby disrupting critical cellular functions.
Combined anaerobic ammonium and methane oxidation for nitrogen and methane removal
Authors: Zhu Baoli , Sánchez Jaime , van Alen Theo A. , Sanabria Janeth , Jetten Mike S.M. , Ettwig Katharina F. , Kartal Boran
Published: November 2011

Anammox (anaerobic ammonium oxidation) is an environment-friendly and cost-efficient nitrogen-removal process currently applied to high-ammonium-loaded wastewaters such as anaerobic digester effluents. In these wastewaters, dissolved methane is also present and should be removed to prevent greenhouse gas emissions into the environment. Potentially, another recently discovered microbial pathway, n-damo (nitrite-dependent anaerobic methane oxidation) could be used for this purpose. In the present paper, we explore the feasibility of simultaneously removing methane and ammonium anaerobically, starting with granules from a full-scale anammox bioreactor. We describe the development of a co-culture of anammox and n-damo bacteria using a medium containing methane, ammonium and nitrite. The results are discussed in the context of other recent studies on the application of anaerobic methane- and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria for wastewater treatment.
Décompensation d’une proalvéolie mandibulaire par ancrage
mini-vis maxillaire dans le traitement d’une classe II, division 1 d’Angle
Authors: Haïm Frédéric
Published: November 2011

Cet article montre une méthode relativement simple de décompensation de la proalvéolie
mandibulaire sans extraction compensatrice des prémolaires mandibulaires ni aggravation de
l’avancée des incisives mandibulaires dans le traitement d’une malocclusion de la classe
II division 1 d’Angle. L’utilisation raisonnée des ancrages squelettiques les plus adaptés
à chaque situation clinique est évoquée.
Gyrokinetic simulations of the tearing instability
Authors: Numata Ryusuke , Dorland William , Howes Gregory G. , Loureiro Nuno F. , Rogers Barrett N. , Tatsuno Tomoya
Published: November 2011

Linear gyrokinetic simulations covering the collisional–collisionless transitional regime of the tearing instability are performed. It is shown that the growth rate scaling with collisionality agrees well with that predicted by a two-fluid theory for a low plasma beta case in which ion kinetic dynamics are negligible. Electron wave-particle interactions (Landau damping), finite Larmor radius, and other kinetic effects invalidate the fluid theory in the collisionless regime, in which a general non-polytropic equation of state for pressure (temperature) perturbations should be considered. We also vary the ratio of the background ion to electron temperatures and show that the scalings expected from existing calculations can be recovered, but only in the limit of very low beta.
Fourier transform emission spectroscopy of YH and YD: Observation of new A1Δ and B1Π electronic states
Authors: Ram R. S. , Li G. , Bernath P. F.
Published: November 2011

The emission spectra of YH and YD molecules have been investigated in the 3600–12 000 cm−1 region using a Fourier transform spectrometer. Molecules were formed in an yttrium hollow cathode lamp operated with a continuous flow of a mixture of Ne and Ar gases, and YH and YD were observed together in the same spectra. A group of bands observed near 1 μm have been identified as 0-0 and 1-1 bands of the A1Δ-X1Σ+ and B1Π-X1Σ+ transitions of YH and the 0-0 bands of the same two transitions for YD. The A1Δ and B1Π states of YH are separated by only about 12 cm−1 and are involved in strong interactions. A perturbation analysis has been performed using the PGOPHER program to fit the two interacting electronic states and spectroscopic parameters for the A1Δ and B1Π states, including the interaction matrix elements, have been obtained for the first time.
Synchrotron x-ray analyses of crystalline and electronic structures of carbon nanowalls
Authors: Kondo Hiroki , Takeuchi Wakana , Hori Masaru , Kimura Shigeru , Kato Yukako , Muro Takayuki , Kinoshita Toyohiko , Sakata Osami , Tajiri Hiroo , Hiramatsu Mineo
Published: November 2011

The electronic and crystal structures of carbon nanowalls (CNWs) were analyzed using synchrotron x-rays. Although they have branchless graphene sheets with high crystallinities comparable to those of highly oriented pyrolytic graphite, they also have small amount of fluorine atoms and slightly large interlayer spacing of basal plane. Soft x-ray emission spectra indicate that CNWs have similar but not identical electronic structures to HOPG. Such the chemical and crystallographic structures might be one of factors to induce characteristic electrical features of the CNWs.
Magnetic study of the Co-MCM-41 catalyst: Before and after reaction
Authors: Morey Aimee M. , Li Nan , Hines William A. , Perry David M. , Jain Menka , Haller Gary L. , Suib Steven L.
Published: November 2011

A combined magnetization (both dc and ac techniques), NMR, and EPR study of the magnetic properties has been carried out on a 3 wt. % Co-loaded Co-MCM-41 catalyst, before and after reaction. Before reaction, the Co magnetization can be described by the Curie-Weiss law (50 K ≤ T ≤ 350 K) consistent with the vast majority of the Co existing in the MCM-41 structure as weakly-interacting Co2+ paramagnetic moments with an effective value μp = 4.7(2) μB. In addition, there appears to be a contribution from a small number of Co “clusters” exhibiting a magnetic transition at ≈15 K. After reaction, the Co magnetization is dominated by a magnetic contribution which saturates with a value 58% that for bulk Co, and is attributed to Co metal nanoparticles. In addition, the Co nanoparticles are characterized by a superparamagnetic blocking temperature at 10.5 K. Before reaction, Co-MCM-41 showed two Co EPR signals: (1) a strong signal at g = 1.93 and (2) a weak signal at g = 1.99. After reaction, Co59 zero-field spin-echo NMR on Co-MCM-41 yielded a broad asymmetric spectrum (200 MHz ≤ ν ≤ 240 MHz) with a peak at 220 MHz, characteristic of magnetic Co particles which are nanometer in size and single domain. Although there were no discernable spectral features which could be used to identify the short-range atomic order, the peak frequency indicated a face centered cubic (fcc) structure. This is consistent with XRD scans which revealed a broad (111) fcc peak and enabled an estimate of 2 nm for the particle size.
A calorimetric method to determine water activity
Authors: Björklund Sebastian , Wadsö Lars
Published: November 2011

A calorimetric method to determine water activity covering the full range of the water activity scale is presented. A dry stream of nitrogen gas is passed either over the solution whose activity should be determined or left dry before it is saturated by bubbling through water in an isothermal calorimeter. The unknown activity is in principle determined by comparing the thermal power of vaporization related to the gas stream with unknown activity to that with zero activity. Except for three minor corrections (for pressure drop, non-perfect humidification, and evaporative cooling) the unknown water activity is calculated solely based on the water activity end-points zero and unity. Thus, there is no need for calibration with references with known water activities. The method has been evaluated at 30 °C by measuring the water activity of seven aqueous sodium chloride solutions ranging from 0.1 mol kg−1 to 3 mol kg−1 and seven saturated aqueous salt solutions (LiCl, MgCl2, NaBr, NaCl, KCl, KNO3, and K2SO4) with known water activities. The performance of the method was adequate over the complete water activity scale. At high water activities the performance was excellent, which is encouraging as many other methods used for water activity determination have limited performance at high water activities.
Experimental determination of self-similarity constant for converging cylindrical shocks
Authors: Kjellander Malte , Tillmark Nils , Apazidis Nicholas
Published: November 2011

Guderley’s self-similarity solution r = r0(1 – t/t0)α for strong converging cylindrical shocks is investigated experimentally for three different gases with adiabatic exponents γ = 1.13; 1.40; and 1.66 and various values of the initial Mach number. Corresponding values of the similarity exponent α which determines the strength of shock convergence are obtained for each gas thus giving the variation of α with γ. Schlieren imaging with multiple exposure technique is used to track the propagation of a single shock front during convergence. The present experimental results are compared with previous experimental, numerical, and theoretical investigations.
Reduction of the potential energy barrier and resistance at wafer-bonded n-GaAs/n-GaAs interfaces by sulfur passivation
Authors: Jackson Michael J. , Jackson Biyun L. , Goorsky Mark S.
Published: November 2011

Sulfur passivation and subsequent wafer-bonding treatments are demonstrated for III–V semiconductor applications using GaAs–GaAs direct wafer-bonded structures. Two different sulfur passivation processes are addressed. A dry sulfur passivation method that utilizes elemental sulfur vapor activated by ultraviolet light in vacuum is compared with aqueous sulfide and native-oxide-etch treatments. The electrical conductivity across a sulfur-treated 400 - °C-bonded n-GaAs/n-GaAs interface significantly increased with a short anneal (1–2 min) at elevated temperatures (500–600 °C). Interfaces treated with the NH4OH oxide etch, on the other hand, exhibited only mild improvement in accordance with previously published studies in this area. TEM and STEM images revealed similar interfacial microstructure changes with annealing for both sulfur-treated and NH4OH interfaces, whereby some areas have direct semiconductor–semiconductor contact without any interfacial layer. Fitting the observed temperature dependence of zero-bias conductance using a model for tunneling through a grain boundary reveals that the addition of sulfur at the interface lowered the interfacial energy barrier by 0.2 eV. The interface resistance for these sulfur-treated structures is 0.03 Ω·cm at room temperature. These results emphasize that sulfur-passivation techniques reduce interface states that otherwise limit the implementation of wafer bonding for high-efficiency solar cells and other devices.
First principles results on TbAl3(BO3)4: A promising magneto-optical material
Authors: Saeed Y. , Singh N. , Schwingenschlögl U.
Published: November 2011

The electronic and optical properties of TbAl3(BO3)4 are determined using density functional theory. The calculated total magnetic moment of 5.96 μB is close to the expected moment of Tb3+. The frequency dependent dielectric function, refractive index, extinction coefficient, absorption, optical reflectivity, and energy loss function are explained in terms of the transitions between the valence and conduction bands. We find very high Kerr angles for ultraviolet light and potential for extension, even into the visible range by band structure design.
Effect of (O, As) dual implantation on p-type doping of ZnO films
Authors: Oh Kim Chang , Hee Shin Dong , Kim Sung , Choi Suk-Ho , Belay K. , Elliman R. G.
Published: November 2011

Optical and electrical characteristics of ZnO films co-implanted with O and As ions have been investigated by photoluminescence (PL), Hall-effect, and current-voltage (I-V) measurements. 100-nm-thick ZnO films grown on n-type Si (100) wafers by RF sputtering have been implanted with various fluences of 30 keV O and 100 keV As ions at room temperature, and subsequently annealed at 800 °C for 20 min in a N2 ambient. The dually-implanted ZnO films show stable p-type characteristics for particular implant combinations, consistent with the observation of dominant PL peaks at 3.328 and 3.357 eV that are associated with the acceptor levels. For these dually-implanted p-type ZnO films/n-type Si diodes, the I-V curves show rectifying p-n junction behavior. Other singly (As)- or dually-implanted samples show n-type or indeterminable doping characteristics. These results suggest that O implantation plays a key role in forming p-type ZnO films by reducing the oxygen vacancy concentration and facilitating the formation of As-related acceptors in ZnO.
Origin of electrical signals for plasma etching endpoint detection
Authors: Sobolewski Mark A.
Published: November 2011

Electrical signals are used for endpoint detection in plasma etching, but the origin of the electrical changes observed at endpoint is not known. They may be caused by changes in the gas-phase densities of etch products and reactants or by changes in substrate surface properties such as photoemitted or ion-induced electron yield. To investigate these effects, experiments were performed in an inductively coupled, rf-biased reactor, during CF4/Ar etches of SiO2 films on Si wafers. The rf bias impedance was measured vs. time during etching, simultaneous with Langmuir probe measurements. At endpoint, a decrease in impedance coincided with increases in ion current and electron energy. The data, analyzed by a numerical model of the discharge, indicate that changes in electron emission yield were relatively insignificant or entirely absent. Thus the impedance change is not a surface effect but is, instead, predominantly or entirely a gas-phase phenomenon.
Giant magneto-light output in three-phase magnetostrictive, piezoelectric, and electroluminescent composites
Authors: Wu Zheng , Tian Xiangling , Jia Yanmin , Tian Xiaojuan , Xie A’xi , Zhang Yihe , Luo Haosu
Published: November 2011

Clear magneto-light output is obtained from a fabricated three-phase composite of magnetostrictive, piezoelectric, and electroluminescent materials. Electrical charges, attributable to the magnetoelectric effect, are induced when a magnetic field is applied to the magnetostrictive/piezoelectric layers. These induced electrical charges result in a light signal emanating from the electroluminescent layer, thereby accomplishing a magneto-light effect. Increasing the strength of the applied ac magnetic field or the number of series-connected piezoelectric layers produces an enhanced magneto-light output. The magneto-light composite has potential applications in magnetic resonance imaging, optical monitoring of magnetic fields, magnetic/light sensing, and transducer technologies.
Affect and Security: Exercising Emergency in ‘UK Civil Contingencies’
Authors: Anderson Ben , Adey Peter
Published: November 2011

In this paper we explore the relation between affect and security through a case study of one technique for making futures present and actionable: The use of exercises in UK emergency planning after the 2004 Civil Contingencies Act. Based on observation of exercises and interviews with emergency planners, we show how exercises function by making present an ‘interval’ of emergency in between the occurrence of a threatening event and its becoming a disaster. This ‘interval’ is made present through a set of partially connected affective atmospheres and sensibilities. By making futures present at the level of affect, exercises function as techniques of equivalence that enable future disruptive events to be governed. Through this case study we argue against epochal accounts that frame the relation between affect and security in terms of an ‘age of anxiety’ or a ‘culture of fear’. Instead, we understand security affects to be both a means through which futures are made present in apparatuses of security and a part of the relational dynamics through which apparatuses emerge, endure, change, and function strategically.
Follow the Thing: Money
Authors: Christophers Brett
Published: November 2011

In an attempt to resist and surmount the mystifications of commodity fetishism, scholars have gone to great lengths to trace the social and spatial pathways of various physical, consumable commodities. By contrast, there have been relatively limited efforts to similarly defetishise what Marx called the “god of commodities”—money—and there has been no systematic, theoretically informed consideration of what the defetishisation of money might actually entail. From an explicitly Marxian perspective this paper aims to make a modest contribution in such a direction. It has two central objectives: To demonstrate why money merits defetishisation and to explore, at a largely theoretical level, how such an exercise might proceed, what primary challenges it would confront, and where the main opportunities for progress are likely to lie.
An Efficient Profile Detection Method for Fiber Spectrum Images with Low SNR Based on Wigner Bispectrum
Authors: Zhu Jia , Zhu Zhangqin , Ye Zhongfu
Published: November 2011

Anovel profile detection method is proposed for astronomical fiber spectrum data with low signalto-noise ratio. This approach can be applied to the pretreatment for 2-D astronomical spectrum data before the extraction of spectra. The Wigner bispectrum, a classical higher-order spectrum analysis method, is introduced and applied to deal with the spectrumsignal in this article.After analyzing the Wigner higher-order spectra distribution of the target profile signal, the combination of the Wigner bispectrum algorithm and the fast Fourier transform algorithm is used to weaken the effect of the noise to obtain more accurate information. Both the reconstruction method of the Wigner bispectrum and inverse fast Fourier transform are used to acquire the detection signal. At the end of this paper, experiments with both simulated and observed data based on the Large Sky Area Multi-Object Fiber Spectroscopy Telescope project are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Effects of temperature-induced sea breezes on phosphorus dynamics in a shallow eutrophic lake
Authors: Shinohara Ryuichiro , Isobe Masahiko
Published: November 2011

Wind gusts often contribute to the internal loading of nutrients in standing waters, but the linkage between the meteorological factors inducing wind gusts and phosphorus (P) dynamics in lakes is unclear. We tested the hypothesis that when atmospheric temperature-induced sea breezes occur, the total P (TP) concentration in a shallow eutrophic lake will be significantly greater than when there were no sea breezes. TP concentrations on days with sea breezes were significantly greater than on breezeless days, indicating that strong sea breezes increase sediment resuspension and that sediment P is supplied to surface water. In this case, water temperature also increased with increasing air temperature, which was significantly higher than on the days with no breezes. The high chlorophyll a and pH values alter the sequentially extracted algal available P fractions of suspended particles, which contained high levels of labile- and residual-P and low levels of NaOH-P. The NaOH-P concentration was lower on the days with sea breezes, indicating that P is released from this fraction. Our study illustrates how rising air temperature induces wind gusts, which are an important mechanism for P dynamics in shallow lakes.
Brassinosteroid control of sex determination in maize
Authors: Hartwig Thomas , Chuck George S. , Fujioka Shozo , Klempien Antje , Weizbauer Renate , Potluri Devi Prasad V. , Choe Sunghwa , Johal Gurmukh S. , Schulz Burkhard
Published: November 2011

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are plant hormones that regulate growth and development. They share structural similarities with animal steroids, which are decisive factors of sex determination. BRs are known to regulate morphogenesis and environmental stress responses, but their involvement in sex determination in plants has been only speculative. We show that BRs control sex determination in maize revealed through characterization of the classical dwarf mutant
nana plant1
(
na1
), which also feminizes male flowers.
na1
plants carry a loss-of-function mutation in a
DET2
homolog—a gene in the BR biosynthetic pathway. The mutant accumulates the DET2-specific substrate (
24R
)-24-methylcholest-4-en-3-one with a concomitant decrease of downstream BR metabolites. Treatment of wild-type maize plants with BR biosynthesis inhibitors completely mimicked both dwarf and tasselseed phenotypes of
na1
mutants. Tissue-specific
na1
expression in anthers throughout their development supports the hypothesis that BRs promote masculinity of the male inflorescence. These findings suggest that, in the monoecious plant maize, BRs have been coopted to perform a sex determination function not found in plants with bisexual flowers.
DNA double-strand breaks induced by high NaCl occur predominantly in gene deserts
Authors: Dmitrieva Natalia I. , Cui Kairong , Kitchaev Daniil A. , Zhao Keji , Burg Maurice B.
Published: November 2011

High concentration of NaCl increases DNA breaks both in cell culture and in vivo. The breaks remain elevated as long as NaCl concentration remains high and are rapidly repaired when the concentration is lowered. The exact nature of the breaks, and their location, has not been entirely clear, and it has not been evident how cells survive, replicate, and maintain genome integrity in environments like the renal inner medulla in which cells are constantly exposed to high NaCl concentration. Repair of the breaks after NaCl is reduced is accompanied by formation of foci containing phosphorylated H2AX (γH2AX), which occurs around DNA double-strand breaks and contributes to their repair. Here, we confirm by specific comet assay and pulsed-field electrophoresis that cells adapted to high NaCl have increased levels of double-strand breaks. Importantly, γH2AX foci that occur during repair of the breaks are nonrandomly distributed in the mouse genome. By chromatin immunoprecipitation using anti-γH2AX antibody, followed by massive parallel sequencing (ChIP-Seq), we find that during repair of double-strand breaks induced by high NaCl, γH2AX is predominantly localized to regions of the genome devoid of genes (“gene deserts”), indicating that the high NaCl-induced double-strand breaks are located there. Localization to gene deserts helps explain why the DNA breaks are less harmful than are the random breaks induced by genotoxic agents such as UV radiation, ionizing radiation, and oxidants. We propose that the universal presence of NaCl around animal cells has directly influenced the evolution of the structure of their genomes.
Snail1 controls epithelial–mesenchymal lineage commitment in focal adhesion kinase–null embryonic cells
Authors: Li Xiao-Yan , Zhou Xiaoming , Rowe R. Grant , Hu Yuexian , Schlaepfer David D. , Ilić Dusko , Dressler Gregory , Park Ann , Guan Jun-Lin , Weiss Stephen J.
Published: November 2011

Mouse embryonic cells isolated from focal adhesion kinase (FAK)–null animals at embryonic day 7.5 display multiple defects in focal adhesion remodeling, microtubule dynamics, mechanotransduction, proliferation, directional motility, and invasion. To date, the ability of FAK to modulate cell function has been ascribed largely to its control of posttranscriptional signaling cascades in this embryonic cell population. In this paper, we demonstrate that FAK unexpectedly exerts control over an epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) program that commits embryonic FAK-null cells to an epithelial status highlighted by the expression of E-cadherin, desmoplakin, and cytokeratins. FAK rescue reestablished the mesenchymal characteristics of FAK-null embryonic cells to generate committed mouse embryonic fibroblasts via an extracellular signal–related kinase– and Akt-dependent signaling cascade that triggered Snail1 gene expression and Snail1 protein stabilization. These findings indentify FAK as a novel regulator of Snail1-dependent EMT in embryonic cells and suggest that multiple defects in FAK−/− cell behavior can be attributed to an inappropriate commitment of these cells to an epithelial, rather than fibroblastic, phenotype.
Ajuba is required for Rac activation and maintenance of E-cadherin adhesion
Authors: Nola Sébastien , Daigaku Reiko , Smolarczyk Kasia , Carstens Maryke , Martin-Martin Belen , Longmore Gregory , Bailly Maryse , Braga Vania M.M.
Published: November 2011

Maintenance of stable E-cadherin–dependent adhesion is essential for epithelial function. The small GTPase Rac is activated by initial cadherin clustering, but the precise mechanisms underlying Rac-dependent junction stabilization are not well understood. Ajuba, a LIM domain protein, colocalizes with cadherins, yet Ajuba function at junctions is unknown. We show that, in Ajuba-depleted cells, Rac activation and actin accumulation at cadherin receptors was impaired, and junctions did not sustain mechanical stress. The Rac effector PAK1 was also transiently activated upon cell–cell adhesion and directly phosphorylated Ajuba (Thr172). Interestingly, similar to Ajuba depletion, blocking PAK1 activation perturbed junction maintenance and actin recruitment. Expression of phosphomimetic Ajuba rescued the effects of PAK1 inhibition. Ajuba bound directly to Rac·GDP or Rac·GTP, but phosphorylated Ajuba interacted preferentially with active Rac. Rather than facilitating Rac recruitment to junctions, Ajuba modulated Rac dynamics at contacts depending on its phosphorylation status. Thus, a Rac–PAK1–Ajuba feedback loop integrates spatiotemporal signaling with actin remodeling at cell–cell contacts and stabilizes preassembled cadherin complexes.
A small CD11b+ human B1 cell subpopulation stimulates T cells and is expanded in lupus
Authors: Griffin Daniel O. , Rothstein Thomas L.
Published: November 2011

A primary function of B lymphocytes is immunoglobulin production; however, the therapeutic benefit of B cell depletion in autoimmune diseases previously thought to be T cell mediated suggests that some B cells fulfill other roles in autoimmunity. We examined the recently identified human B1 cell population for T cell stimulatory activity. We found two kinds of B1 cells that are distinguished by multiple surface markers and distinct transcriptomic profiles. In both umbilical cord and adult peripheral blood, a CD11b+ subset constitutes ∼1 out of every 8–10 B1 cells, whereas a CD11b− subset constitutes the remaining B1 cells. These B1 cell populations differ functionally. CD11b− B1 cells spontaneously secrete much more IgM than CD11b+ B1 cells. In contrast, CD11b+ B1 cells express more CD86, and more efficiently stimulate allogeneic CD4+ T cell expansion, than CD11b− B1 cells. The frequency of these CD11b+ B1 cells is markedly elevated in lupus patients. CD11b+ B1 cells in lupus patients express more CD86 and have increased T cell–stimulating activity in disease. This work distinguishes a novel, T cell–interacting B1 cell population whose abundance and activity may be a reflection of, and a therapeutic target in, autoimmune disease.
The Construal (In)compatibility Effect: The Moderating Role of a Creative Mind-Set
Authors: Yang Xiaojing , Ringberg Torsten , Mao Huifang , Peracchio Laura A.
Published: November 2011

This research examines how consumers with a creative mind-set are persuaded by advertising claims construed at different levels (i.e., abstract vs. concrete ad claims). Across four experiments, we show that consumers with a creative mind-set are more persuaded by ad claims construed at a level incompatible with their mental construal, while ad claims construed at a level compatible with consumers’ mental construal are more effective for those who possess a less creative mind-set. We document that such differences in persuasion are driven by the fact that consumers with a creative (less creative) mind-set prefer information that is more remotely (closely) associated with their mental construal and appears novel (familiar).
A System of Integrated Care for Older Persons With Disabilities in Canada: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Béland François , Bergman Howard , Lebel Paule , Clarfield A. Mark , Tousignant Pierre , Contandriopoulos André-Pierre , Dallaire Luc
Published: November 2011

Background. Care for elderly persons with disabilities is usually characterized by fragmentation, often leading to more intrusive and expensive forms of care such as hospitalization and institutionalization. There has been increasing interest in the ability of integrated models to improve health, satisfaction, and service utilization outcomes.

Methods. A program of integrated care for vulnerable community-dwelling elderly persons (SIPA [French acronym for System of Integrated Care for Older Persons]) was compared to usual care with a randomized control trial. SIPA offered community-based care with local agencies responsible for the full range and coordination of community and institutional (acute and long-term) health and social services. Primary outcomes were utilization and public costs of institutional and community care. Secondary outcomes included health status, satisfaction with care, caregiver burden, and out-of-pocket expenses.

Results. Accessibility was increased for health and social home care with increased intensification of home health care. There was a 50% reduction in hospital alternate level inpatient stays (“bed blockers”) but no significant differences in utilization and costs of emergency department, hospital acute inpatient, and nursing home stays. For all study participants, average community costs per person were C$3390 higher in the SIPA group but institutional costs were C$3770 lower with, as hypothesized, no difference in total overall costs per person in the two groups. Satisfaction was increased for SIPA caregivers with no increase in caregiver burden or out-of-pocket costs. As expected, there was no difference in health outcomes.

Conclusions. Integrated systems appear to be feasible and have the potential to reduce hospital and nursing home utilization without increasing costs.
Optimization of Dietary Restriction Protocols in Drosophila
Authors: Bass Timothy M. , Grandison Richard C. , Wong Richard , Martinez Pedro , Partridge Linda , Piper Matthew D. W.
Published: November 2011

Dietary restriction (DR) extends life span in many organisms, through unknown mechanisms that may or may not be evolutionarily conserved. Because different laboratories use different diets and techniques for implementing DR, the outcomes may not be strictly comparable. This complicates intra- and interspecific comparisons of the mechanisms of DR and is therefore central to the use of model organisms to research this topic. Drosophila melanogaster is an important model for the study of DR, but the nutritional content of its diet is typically poorly defined. We have compared fly diets composed of different yeasts for their effect on life span and fecundity. We found that only one diet was appropriate for DR experiments, indicating that much of the published work on fly “DR” may have included adverse effects of food composition. We propose procedures to ensure that diets are suitable for the study of DR in Drosophila.
Faecal Calprotectin in HIV‐infected, HAART‐naïve Ugandan Children
Authors: Hestvik E. , Olafsdottir E. , Tylleskar T. , Aksnes L. , Kaddu‐Mulindwa D. , Ndeezi G. , Tumwine J.K. , Grahnquist L.
Published: November 2011

Objectives:

Calprotectin is a calcium‐ and zinc‐binding protein and a marker in faeces of gastrointestinal inflammation. Reference values have been established in children older than 4 years. The aim of the present study was to determine the concentration of faecal calprotectin (FC) in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)–infected, highly active antiretroviral therapy–naïve Ugandan children and compare it with the reference value.

Methods:

We tested 193 HIV‐infected children ages 0 to 12 years in a hospital‐based survey for FC. A standardised interview with sociodemographic information and medical history was used to assess risk factors. A cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) cell percentage was prevalent in all of the children.

Results:

The median FC concentrations decreased with increasing age, as in healthy children. The median concentration was 208 mg/kg in infants 0 to 1 year, 171 mg/kg among toddlers 1 to 4 years, and 62 mg/kg for children 4 to 12 years. Children with advanced disease and a low CD4 cell percentage had significantly higher FC concentrations than those with a high CD4 cell percentage. Children older than 4 years with diarrhoea had significantly higher FC concentrations compared with those without diarrhoea.

Conclusions:

HIV‐infected children older than 4 years had a median FC concentration above the reference value, and gut inflammation in the children with elevated values is likely. Children with more advanced disease had increased FC concentrations regardless of age.
Papillary thyroid microcarcinoma: clinicopathological characteristics and implications for treatment in 276 patients
Authors: Vasileiadis Ioannis , Karakostas Efthimios , Charitoudis Georgios , Stavrianaki Anna , Kapetanakis Stylianos , Kouraklis Gregory , Karatzas Theodore
Published: November 2011

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (6): 657–664

Background  There is debate concerning the clinical significance of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC), and therefore, the rise in the incidence of PTMC creates management dilemmas. The purpose of this study was to analyse the clinicopathological characteristics of PTMC in an island region that has a high prevalence of goitre and to determine risk factors for the worst prognosis.

Materials and methods  Data from 1874 patients who underwent a total thyroidectomy between January 2002 and December 2008 were reviewed retrospectively. A total of 276 patients who were diagnosed with PTMC in a final pathology report were included in the study. A PTMC was defined as a papillary thyroid carcinoma with a diameter ≤ 10 mm. Clinicopathological features were evaluated by both univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results  Of the 276 patients with PTMC, 219 patients (79·3%) were incidentally diagnosed. Two hundred and two patients had carcinomas of ≤ 5 mm, and 74 patients presented with carcinomas that ranged in size from 0·6 to 1·0 cm. Lymph node metastasis was diagnosed in 3·5% of patients with tumours ≤ 5 mm, and 21·6% of patients presented tumours > 5 mm. Upon multivariate analysis, clinically suspected diagnosis, a tumour size > 5 mm and an age over 45 years at diagnosis were independent risk factors for capsule invasion, while tumour multifocality, bilaterality, size of tumour > 5 mm and thyroid capsule invasion were independent risk factors for lymph node metastasis at diagnosis.

Conclusions  Patients presenting multifocal, bilateral PTMC with a maximum diameter > 5 mm and thyroid capsule invasion may have an increased risk of lymph node metastasis. These factors should be considered in the follow‐up for these patients.
Beneficial effect of successful HCV treatment in patients with inherited bleeding disorders, assessed by liver stiffness measurements
Authors: FRANSEN van de PUTTE D. E. , FISCHER K. , De KNEGT R. J. , POSTHOUWER D. , Van ERPECUM K. J. , BIESMA D. H. , MAUSER‐BUNSCHOTEN E. P.
Published: November 2011

Summary.  Hepatitis C infection is a major comorbidity in patients with inherited bleeding disorders. Successful antiviral treatment leads to a reduction in liver fibrosis, as shown by liver biopsies. Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) is a non‐invasive method of assessing liver fibrosis. The aim of this cohort study was to evaluate the long‐term effect of successful antiviral treatment, using LSM, in HCV‐infected patients with inherited bleeding disorders. The LSM were performed in 2005 (LSM 1) and 2009 (LSM 2) in 39 patients who were successfully treated for HCV. The change in liver fibrosis between LSM 1 and 2 was assessed. The median duration of HCV infection was 28.8 years. A total of 22 patients (56%) underwent successful antiviral treatment before LSM 1 (group 1), and 17 patients between LSM 1 and LSM 2 (group 2). The median time since antiviral treatment was 8.8 years in group 1 and 2.5 years in group 2. In group 1, the median results of LSM 1 and 2 were similar (6.0 vs. 5.6 kPa, P‐value 0.36), so overall, patients remained stable. In three patients in this group, all treated more than 15 years ago, an increase of liver stiffness was shown. Group 2 showed a significant improvement in median LSM results (10.3 vs. 6.1 kPa, P‐value <0.01), with decrease of liver stiffness in 82%. Even after a long HCV infection duration, successful antiviral treatment led to a significant improvement of fibrosis, measured by LSM, mainly in the first few years after completing treatment.
Challenges and expectations of the Mental Capacity Act 2005: an interview‐based study of community‐based specialist nurses working in dementia care
Authors: Samsi Kritika , Manthorpe Jill , Nagendran Tayvanie , Heath Hazel
Published: November 2011

Aims.  This study aimed to explore experiences of specialist community nurses providing information about the Mental Capacity Act and supporting people with dementia and carers.

Background.  The role of specialist community nurses and case managers, such as Admiral Nurses, suggests that providing information about the recent Mental Capacity Act (2005) in England and Wales would be appreciated by people with dementia and carers and would assist in assessment and support.

Design.  In‐depth qualitative methodology was adopted to explore experiences and opinions of Admiral Nurses using the Mental Capacity Act.

Method.  A volunteer sample of 15 Admiral Nurses were interviewed in 2008 about their experiences of explaining the legal framework to carers and people with dementia and expectations of the Act. Thematic analysis identified textual consistencies in the interviews.

Results.  Most participants reported positively about the Mental Capacity Act and considered it beneficial when working with people with dementia and carers. Specific themes included knowledge acquisition and training, alongside limited confidence with implementation; practice experiences in the community and the empowering nature of the Mental Capacity Act; practice expectations and challenges with implementation.

Conclusion.  The Mental Capacity Act has potential for supporting the safeguarding and empowerment role of community nurses. However, not all participants felt confident using it and speculated this would improve with greater familiarity and use, which should be facilitated by refresher training and supervision.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The article concludes that nurses providing support to carers and of people with dementia may need greater familiarity about legal provisions. This may assist them in providing general information, making timely referrals to sources of specialist legal advice, and in using the Act to reduce anxiety, conflict and disputes.
Matching genetics with oceanography: directional gene flow in a Mediterranean fish species
Authors: SCHUNTER C. , CARRERAS‐CARBONELL J. , MACPHERSON E. , TINTORÉ J. , VIDAL‐VIJANDE E. , PASCUAL A. , GUIDETTI P. , PASCUAL M.
Published: November 2011

Genetic connectivity and geographic fragmentation are two opposing mechanisms determining the population structure of species. While the first homogenizes the genetic background across populations the second one allows their differentiation. Therefore, knowledge of processes affecting dispersal of marine organisms is crucial to understand their genetic distribution patterns and for the effective management of their populations. In this study, we use genetic analyses of eleven microsatellites in combination with oceanographic satellite and dispersal simulation data to determine distribution patterns for Serranus cabrilla, a ubiquitous demersal broadcast spawner, in the Mediterranean Sea. Pairwise population FST values ranged between −0.003 and 0.135. Two genetically distinct clusters were identified, with a clear division located between the oceanographic discontinuities at the Ibiza Channel (IC) and the Almeria‐Oran Front (AOF), revealing an admixed population in between. The Balearic Front (BF) also appeared to dictate population structure. Directional gene flow on the Spanish coast was observed as S. cabrilla dispersed from west to east over the AOF, from north to south on the IC and from south of the IC towards the Balearic Islands. Correlations between genetic and oceanographic data were highly significant. Seasonal changes in current patterns and the relationship between ocean circulation patterns and spawning season may also play an important role in population structure around oceanographic fronts.
The complementary and alternative medicine use among asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients in the southern region of Turkey
Authors: Akinci Ayse Cil , Zengin Neriman , Yildiz Hicran , Sener Emral , Gunaydin Besime
Published: November 2011

Akinci AC, Zengin N, Yildiz H, Sener E, Gunaydin B. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2011; 17: 571–582

The complementary and alternative medicine use among asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients in the southern region of Turkey

The aim of this descriptive study was to investigate the complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) applications and factors associated and its use among asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients in the southern region of Turkey. The study sample consisted of 197 patients. A percentage of 86.3 of asthma and COPD patients used at least one type of CAM. The most commonly used CAM methods are deep inhalation (51.8%), herb or herbal tea (46.7%), praying (41.1%) and applying vapour (36%). Patients generally use CAM methods for breathing comfortably, improving respiration, reducing dyspnoea, and relaxing. Patients frequently use CAM methods together with medical treatments, and they benefit from these methods without getting any harm. The rate of CAM usage is higher among patients who have a longer period of asthma and COPD and more than five symptoms of asthma and COPD. In conclusion, CAM is used commonly by asthma and COPD patients. The CAM usage rate is higher among patients who have a longer period of asthma and COPD and more than five symptoms of asthma and COPD.
Microsatellite instability: Detection and management in sporadic colorectal cancer
Authors: Whitehall Vicki , Leggett Barbara
Published: November 2011

See article in J. Gastroenterol. Hepatol. 2011; 26: 1733–1739.