bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The free anterolateral thigh musculocutaneous flap for head and neck reconstruction: One surgeon's experience in 92 cases
Authors: Bianchi Bernardo , Ferri Andrea , Ferrari Silvano , Copelli Chiara , Boni Pietro , Ferri Teore , Sesenna Enrico
Published: January 2012

Background:

Applications of the free anterolateral thigh (ALT) musculocutaneous flap have been largely underestimated compared with indications for fasciocutaneous or perforator flaps. In this article, the authors critically review the experience of a single surgeon with the free ALT musculocutaneous flap for head and neck reconstruction, focusing on its applications in different cephalic areas and on advantages and disadvantages of this technique.

Patients and methods:

Ninety‐two patients were treated using a free ALT musculocutaneous flap. Reconstructed areas included tongue, oropharynx, mandible, maxilla, hypopharynx, cheek, and skull base.

Results:

Flap survival rate was 97.8%. Donor site morbidity consisted in two cases of partial necrosis of the skin graft used its closure with a final donor site complication rate of 2.2%. Overall results showed an 89% of patients returned to a normal or a soft diet. Speech was good or intelligible in 88% and cosmesis resulted good or acceptable in 89% of cases.

Conclusion:

The free ALT musculocutaneous flap offers unique advantages in head and neck reconstructions including adequate bulk when needed, obliteration of dead space, support for the soft tissues of the face, low donor‐site morbidity, and harvesting without needing for perforators dissection, allowing for optimal patient outcome. Excessive bulky and thickness of subcutaneous tissue, especially in occidental population, have to be considered as the main disadvantages of this technique, finally the high incidence of hairy skin in thigh area in male patients and donor site scars associated with the use of skin grafts have to be considered as supplementary minor drawbacks. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Urinary incontinence during pregnancy and 1 year after delivery in primiparous women compared with a control group of nulliparous women
Authors: Hansen Bent Brandt , Svare Jens , Viktrup Lars , Jørgensen Torben , Lose Gunnar
Published: January 2012

Aims

To investigate the impact of the first pregnancy and delivery on the prevalence and types of urinary incontinence during pregnancy and 1 year after delivery.

Methods

The study was a prospective cohort study with a control group. Primiparous women, who delivered in our department from June 2003 to July 2005, participated. The women filled out a questionnaire 2–3 days after the delivery and a new questionnaire after 1 year. The questionnaires comprised basic characteristics and symptoms of urinary incontinence. An attempted age‐matched control group of nulliparous women was included, and filled out similar questionnaires. Prevalences and types of urinary incontinence, and a combined severity‐ and bother‐score (ICIQ‐SF score) among the incontinent women, were calculated and compared.

Results

The two groups differed significantly in age and most basic characteristics. During pregnancy, the prevalence of any type of urinary incontinence in the primiparous group was 32.1%, compared to 13.8% in the control group. Adjusted OR = 3.3 (95%CI = 2.4–4.4). One year after delivery, the prevalence in the primiparous group was 29.3%, compared to 16.6% in the control group. Adjusted OR = 2.5 (95%CI = 1.8–3.5). ICIQ‐SF mean scores among the incontinent women varied insignificantly between 5.8 and 6.2.

Conclusions

The prevalence of urinary incontinence during pregnancy was 3.3 times higher compared with a control group of nulliparous women. After 1 year, the difference was reduced, but still 2.5 times higher in the primiparous group. The symptoms and impact on quality of life seemed to be mild to moderate in both groups. Neurourol. Urodynam. 31:475–480, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Purinergic signaling
Authors: Burnstock Geoffrey , Verkhratsky Alexei
Published: January 2012

The concept of purinergic neurotransmission was proposed in 1972, after it was shown that adenosine 5′‐triphosphate (ATP) was a transmitter in non‐adrenergic, non‐cholinergic inhibitory nerves in the guinea pig taenia coli. Subsequently, ATP was identified as a cotransmitter in sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves, and it is now recognized that ATP acts as a cotransmitter in most nerves in both the peripheral nervous system and central nervous system (CNS). ATP acts as a fast excitatory neurotransmitter or neuromodulator and has potent long‐term (trophic) roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, and death in development and regeneration, as well as in disease. Three subclasses of receptors to purines and pyrimidines have been identified, P1 adenosine receptors (with four subtypes), P2X ionotropic nucleotide receptors (seven subtypes), and P2Y metabotropic nucleotide receptors (eight subtypes). ATP is released physiologically by many different cell types by mechanical deformation, and after release ATP undergoes rapid enzymatic degradation by ectonucleotidases. Purinergic receptors appeared early in evolution and have a widespread distribution on many different non‐neuronal cell types as well as neurons. There is evidence for the involvement of purinergic signaling in embryonic development and in the activities of stem cells. There is a rapidly growing literature about the pathophysiology of purinergic signaling, and there are therapeutic developments for a variety of diseases, including stroke and thrombosis, osteoporosis, kidney failure, bladder incontinence, cystic fibrosis, dry eye, cancer, and disorders of the CNS, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, migraine, and neuropsychiatric disorders. WIREs Membr Transp Signal 2012, 1:116–125. doi: 10.1002/wmts.14

For further resources related to this article, please visit the WIREs website.
Validation of the “Perrier” Parathyroid Adenoma Location Nomenclature
Authors: Mazeh Haggi , Stoll Samantha J. , Robbins Jessica B. , Sippel Rebecca S. , Chen Herbert
Published: January 2012

Background

In 2009, the “Perrier” nomenclature was introduced to enhance communications among surgeons and specialists regarding the location of parathyroid adenomas. The purpose of this study was to validate the utility of the nomenclature in a prospective manner at a different institution.

Methods

A prospective database was created from June 2010 through January 2011 evaluating 108 consecutive patients. In each case, the location of the parathyroid adenoma according to the nomenclature was predicted individually by an attending physician and a resident based on preoperative imaging studies. A radiologist interpreted the images retrospectively. These predictions were compared to the operative findings.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 61 ± 1 years, and 82% were women. The distribution using the nomenclature was as follows: A (adherent to posterior thyroid capsule) 20%; B (tracheoesophageal groove) 27%; C (tracheoesophageal groove but close to the clavicle) 12%; D (directly over the recurrent laryngeal nerve) 2%; E (easy to identify, inferior thyroid pole) 35%; F (fallen into the thymus) 4%. The overall predicting accuracy was significantly higher for the attending physicians than for the residents or the radiologist (78% vs. 64% vs. 25%, P < 0.001). It was 73–92%, 55–77%, and 12–46%, respectively, for locations with more than four patients. The accuracy was not affected by parathyroid hormone or and calcium levels, or the gland weight.

Conclusions

The “Perrier” nomenclature is reproducible. The most common adenoma locations were B and E in our study, similar to the initial studies. Nevertheless, there is a wide range of preoperative predicting accuracy based on the imaging studies obtained and the interpreter’s experience.
A Five Year Review of the Management of Acutely Presenting Epididymo-Orchitis in a Single Uk Institution
Authors: Dutton T.J. , Aning J.J. , Mcgrath J.S.
Published: January 2012

Introduction

This audit compared the management of epididymo-orchitis within our institution against the 2010 guidelines issued by the British Association of Sexual Health and HIV.

Methods

A Retrospective casenote analysis was performed on all patients diagnosed with epididymo-orchitis between August 2004 and August 2009. Patients were identified using Hospital Episode Statistics (HES) data. Data analysed included patient's age, investigations performed, treatment given, and patient follow-up.

Results

In total, 232 patients were identified (mean age 41 years, range 1–-96). A mid-stream urine was performed in 105 (45%) patients, 12 (5%) had a urethral swab and 82 (35%) had an ultrasound scan. Twenty patients were surgically explored to exclude torsion. The mean length of stay was 1 night (range 0–-9). Antibiotics were prescribed in 94% of patients. Sexual history and advice to attend a genito-urinary clinic was documented in 16% and 4% of cases respectively. Referral for follow-up in the urology outpatient clinic occurred for 24% of patients.

Conclusions

The management of epididymo-orchitis in patients referred for secondary care review is an area for significant improvement in clinical practice. Implementation and dissemination of clear local guidelines are essential to ensure appropriate patient management and minimise unnecessary in-patient admissions and outpatient follow-up.
The CORALZOO project: a synopsis of four years of public aquarium science
Authors: Osinga Ronald , Schutter Miriam , Wijgerde Tim , Rinkevich Buki , Shafir Shai , Shpigel Muki , Luna Gian Marco , Danovaro Roberto , Bongiorni Lucia , Deutsch Andreas , Kuecken Michael , Hiddinga Bart , Janse Max , McLeod Andrew , Gili Claudia , Lavorano Silvia , Henard Stephane , Barthelemy Dominique , Westhoff Guido , Baylina Nuria , Santos Elsa , Weissenbacher Anton , Kuba Michael , Jones Rachel , Leewis Rob , Petersen Dirk , Laterveer Michael
Published: January 2012

In order to improve the methodology for growing and maintaining corals in captivity, a consortium of European zoos, aquaria and academia executed a four-year public/private collaborative research and innovation project (CORALZOO) on the breeding and husbandry of stony corals. CORALZOO comprised the following topics: (1) sexual and asexual breeding of corals in captivity, including techniques for propagation, feeding and induction of natural coral colony morphogenesis; and (2) coral husbandry: development of generic bioassays to evaluate biotic and abiotic husbandry parameters and to monitor coral health, elaboration of methods for identification and treatment of coral diseases and optimization of transport and acclimation procedures. The results of this project are reviewed.
The colonization of macroalgal rafts by the genusIdotea(sub-phylum Crustacea; order Isopoda): an active or passive process?
Authors: Clarkin Emmett , Maggs Christine A. , Arnott Gareth , Briggs Sean , Houghton Jonathan D.R.
Published: January 2012

The association of invertebrate communities with macroalgae rafts has received much attention over recent decades, yet significant gaps in our knowledge remain with respect to the colonization process. Using laboratory-based experiments andin situfield trials in Strangford Lough, Northern Ireland, this study investigated whether members of the known rafting genusIdotea(sub-phylum Crustacea; order Isopoda) could effectively colonize rafts after shore seaweed detachment, or if their presence merely reflected a passive marooning process. Test tank arenas were used to identify traits that may influence the rafting potential of the dominant shore speciesIdotea granulosaand the well known rafterIdotea baltica. When released mid-water,I. granulosainitially ascended and associated with floating seaweed whereasI. balticatended to descend with no clear habitat association. These findings conflict with the differential distribution of theseIdoteaspecies among rafts and shore algae, thus highlighting the complex nature of the potential of organisms to raft. In the field we considered the relative ability of differentIdoteaspecies to colonize tethered rafts composed ofAscophyllum nodosumandFucus vesiculosus, cleaned of all vagile organisms and deployed at locations adjacent to established intertidalIdoteaspecies populations. At the end of the experiment (after 44 days) rafts were inhabited by known rafting and shoreline species, confirming that colonization can occur after algal detachment. Previously considered shoreline species on occasion outnumbered well known rafters suggesting that a wide range ofIdoteaspecies can readily avail of macroalgal rafts as a potential dispersal mechanism or alternative habitat.
The initial stages of first-language acquisition begun in adolescence: when late looks early
Authors: RAMÍREZ NAJA FERJAN , LIEBERMAN AMY M. , MAYBERRY RACHEL I.
Published: January 2012

Children typically acquire their native language naturally and spontaneously at a very young age. The emergence of early grammar can be predicted from children's vocabulary size and composition (Bateset al., 1994; Bates, Bretherton & Snyder, 1998; Bates & Goodman, 1997). One central question in language research is understanding what causes the changes in early language acquisition. Some researchers argue that the qualitative and quantitative shifts in word learning simply reflect the changing character of the child's cognitive maturity (for example, Gentner, 1982), while others argue that the trajectory of early language acquisition is driven by the child's growing familiarity with the language (Gillette, Gleitman, Gleitman & Lederer, 1999; Snedeker & Gleitman, 2004). These hypotheses are difficult to adjudicate because language acquisition in virtually all hearing children begins from birth and occurs simultaneously with cognitive development and brain maturation. The acquisition of sign languages, in contrast, is frequently delayed until older ages. In the USA, over 90% of deaf children are born to hearing parents who do not use sign language (Schein, 1989). As a result, deaf children are often exposed to sign language as a first language at a range of ages well beyond infancy (Mayberry, 2007). In rare cases, some deaf individuals are isolated from all linguistic input until adolescence when they start receiving special services and begin to learn sign language through immersion (Morford, 2003). Case studies of language acquisition in such extreme late first-language (L1) learners provide a unique opportunity to investigate first-language learning. The current study investigates three cases of young teens who are in the early stages of acquiring American Sign Language (ASL) as a first language, to determine what first-language acquisition in adolescence looks like.
Interseismic coupling, segmentation and mechanical behavior of the central Chile subduction zone
Authors: Métois M. , Socquet A. , Vigny C.
Published: January 2012

Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements carried out in Chile over the last two decades showed that an entire portion of the Nazca‐South America subduction zone (38°S − 24°S) was locked over this period of time. The induced accumulation of elastic deformation in the upper‐plate was not released until the recent Maule earthquake of 27 February 2010 (Mw 8.8) that ruptured the southern part of this section. Locking or coupling between the two plates varies both with depth and along strike. Here we use our own GPS data (an updated solution of our extended network in central Chile), combined with other published data sets, to quantify the spatial variations of the coupling that prevailed before the Maule earthquake. Using a simple elastic model based on the back‐slip assumption, we show that coupling variations on the subduction plane are sufficient to explain the observed surface deformation, with no need of a sliver in central Chile. We identify four segments characterized by higher coupling and separated by narrow areas of lower coupling. This segmentation is in good agreement with historical and recent seismicity in Chile. In particular the narrow zones of lower coupling seem to have stopped most large seismic ruptures, including Maule's. These zones are often associated with irregular bathymetric or coastal features (fracture zones or peninsulas). Finally, coseismic and early post‐seismic slip distribution of the Maule earthquake, occurring either in previously highly or weakly coupled zones, map a complex distribution of velocity‐weakening and velocity‐strengthening patches on the subduction interface.
γ-Enolase C-terminal peptide promotes cell survival and neurite outgrowth by activation of the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signalling pathways
Authors: Hafner Anja , Obermajer Nataša , Kos Janko
Published: January 2012

γ-Enolase, a glycolytic enzyme, is expressed specifically in neurons. It exerts neurotrophic activity and has been suggested to regulate growth, differentiation, survival and regeneration of neurons. In the present study, we investigated the involvement of γ-enolase in PI3K (phosphoinositide 3-kinase)/Akt and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase)/ERK (extracellular-signal-regulated kinase) signalling, the two pathways triggered predominantly by neurotrophic factors. Whereas the PI3K/Akt pathway, rather than the MAPK/ERK pathway, is involved in γ-enolase-enhanced cell survival, γ-enolase-stimulated neurite outgrowth requires both pathways, i.e. the activation of both PI3K and ERK1/2, leading to subsequent expression of the growth-cone-specific protein GAP-43 (growth-associated protein of 43 kDa). MEK (MAPK/ERK kinase) and PI3K inhibition blocked or attenuated the neurite outgrowth associated with dynamic remodelling of the actin-based cytoskeleton. We show that γ-enolase-mediated PI3K activation regulates RhoA kinase, a key regulator of actin cytoskeleton organization. Moreover, the inhibition of RhoA downstream effector ROCK (Rho-associated kinase) results in enhanced γ-enolase-induced neurite outgrowth, accompanied by actin polymerization and its redistribution to growth cones. Our results show that γ-enolase controls neuronal survival, differentiation and neurite regeneration by activating the PI3K/Akt and MAPK/ERK signalling pathways, resulting in downstream regulation of the molecular and cellular processes of cytoskeleton reorganization and cell remodelling, activation of transcriptional factors and regulation of the cell cycle.
Rediscovery of the scaly-tailed possum (Wyulda squamicaudata) in the eastern Kimberley
Authors: Doody J. Sean , Rhind David , Castellano Christina M. , Bass Michael
Published: January 2012

The tropical mammal fauna of Australia is both understudied and, in some cases, imperiled, and the former hinders a complete understanding of the latter. An enigmatic and poorly understood species is the scaly-tailed possum (Wyulda squamicaudata), a species endemic to the Kimberley Region, Western Australia. We describe the rediscovery of the scaly-tailed possum in the east Kimberley, where it has not been recorded since 1917. The discovery: (1) reinforces the hitherto-questioned validity of the east Kimberley record; (2) confirms an extension of the range by 200–300 km to the east from populations in the west Kimberley; and thus (3) broadens the climate envelope occupied by the species. Implications of the known distribution for the biology, genetics and conservation of the scaly-tailed possum are briefly discussed.
Ecotopic viral integration site 1 (EVI1) regulates multiple cellular processes important for cancer and is a synergistic partner for FOS protein in invasive tumors
Authors: Bard-Chapeau Emilie A. , Jeyakani Justin , Kok Chung H. , Muller Julius , Chua Belinda Q. , Gunaratne Jayantha , Batagov Arsen , Jenjaroenpun Piroon , Kuznetsov Vladimir A. , Wei Chia-Lin , D'Andrea Richard J. , Bourque Guillaume , Jenkins Nancy A. , Copeland Neal G.
Published: January 2012

Ecotropic viral integration site 1 (EVI1) is an oncogenic dual domain zinc finger transcription factor that plays an essential role in the regulation of hematopoietic stem cell renewal, and its overexpression in myeloid leukemia and epithelial cancers is associated with poor patient survival. Despite the discovery of EVI1 in 1988 and its emerging role as a dominant oncogene in various types of cancer, few EVI1 target genes are known. This lack of knowledge has precluded a clear understanding of exactly how EVI1 contributes to cancer. Using a combination of ChIP-Seq and microarray studies in human ovarian carcinoma cells, we show that the two zinc finger domains of EVI1 bind to DNA independently and regulate different sets of target genes. Strikingly, an enriched fraction of EVI1 target genes are cancer genes or genes associated with cancer. We also show that more than 25% of EVI1-occupied genes contain linked EVI1 and activator protein (AP)1 DNA binding sites, and this finding provides evidence for a synergistic cooperative interaction between EVI1 and the AP1 family member FOS in the regulation of cell adhesion, proliferation, and colony formation. An increased number of dual EVI1/AP1 target genes are also differentially regulated in late-stage ovarian carcinomas, further confirming the importance of the functional cooperation between EVI1 and FOS. Collectively, our data indicate that EVI1 is a multipurpose transcription factor that synergizes with FOS in invasive tumors.
Coaxial multishell nanowires with high-quality electronic interfaces and tunable optical cavities for ultrathin photovoltaics
Authors: Kempa Thomas J. , Cahoon James F. , Kim Sun-Kyung , Day Robert W. , Bell David C. , Park Hong-Gyu , Lieber Charles M.
Published: January 2012

Silicon nanowires (NWs) could enable low-cost and efficient photovoltaics, though their performance has been limited by nonideal electrical characteristics and an inability to tune absorption properties. We overcome these limitations through controlled synthesis of a series of polymorphic core/multishell NWs with highly crystalline, hexagonally-faceted shells, and well-defined coaxial

(
p
/
n
) and
p
/
intrinsic
/
n
(
p
/
i
/
n
) diode junctions. Designed 200–300 nm diameter
p
/
i
/
n
NW diodes exhibit ultralow leakage currents of approximately 1 fA, and open-circuit voltages and fill-factors up to 0.5 V and 73%, respectively, under one-sun illumination. Single-NW wavelength-dependent photocurrent measurements reveal size-tunable optical resonances, external quantum efficiencies greater than unity, and current densities double those for silicon films of comparable thickness. In addition, finite-difference-time-domain simulations for the measured NW structures agree quantitatively with the photocurrent measurements, and demonstrate that the optical resonances are due to Fabry-Perot and whispering-gallery cavity modes supported in the high-quality faceted nanostructures. Synthetically optimized NW devices achieve current densities of 17 mA/cm
2
and power-conversion efficiencies of 6%. Horizontal integration of multiple NWs demonstrates linear scaling of the absolute photocurrent with number of NWs, as well as retention of the high open-circuit voltages and short-circuit current densities measured for single NW devices. Notably, assembly of 2 NW elements into vertical stacks yields short-circuit current densities of 25 mA/cm
2
with a backside reflector, and simulations further show that such stacking represents an attractive approach for further enhancing performance with projected efficiencies of > 15% for 1.2 μm thick 5 NW stacks.
Modulated multiferroicity of Cr-doped orthorhombic polycrystalline YMnO3
Authors: Li S Z , Wang T T , Han H Q , Wang X Z , Li H , Liu J , Liu J-M
Published: January 2012

We synthesize a series of orthorhombic polycrystalline YMn1−x
Cr
x
O3 (o-YMCO, x < 0.3) samples using high-pressure sintering, and investigate the multiferroicity by various characterization techniques. It is identified that Cr doping remarkably enhances the ferromagnetism, and the ferroelectric polarization is also significantly modulated. The enhanced ferromagnetism is argued to originate from the ferromagnetic interactions between neighbouring Cr3+ spins and Mn3+ spins. While the microscopic mechanism for polarization generation remains to be clarified, it may be argued, based on the response of polarization against external magnetic field, that Cr doping induces a partial transition from the symmetric exchange striction mechanism in o-YMnO3 to the asymmetric exchange striction mechanism in o-YMCO for ferroelectricity generation.
Spatial distribution of metastable and resonance atoms in a low-pressure He–Xe discharge in spot mode
Authors: Golubovskii Yu B , Gorchakov S , Lange H , Timofeev A , Uhrlandt D , Winter J
Published: January 2012

A dc low-pressure discharge in a helium–xenon mixture with a hot spot on a flat oxide cathode is investigated. The zone around this cathode spot is an interesting source of excitation of metastable and resonance atoms and can be effectively used for the study of fundamental aspects, e.g. transport phenomena of these excited atoms. The method of laser atomic absorption spectroscopy is used to measure the spatial distribution of these atoms. Since excitation sources are significantly distinct from the diffusion and radiation fundamental modes there is a need for correct interpretation of the experimental results based on simultaneous solution of the diffusion equation and the equation of radiation transport. It is shown that the conventional method for the description of resonance radiation transport, which uses the effective lifetime approximation according to Holstein–Biberman, cannot reproduce the spatial distribution of excited atoms in this type of discharge. The influence of various transport mechanisms and of the collisional coupling between the two lowest excited states of xenon on the spatial distribution of these densities is analysed. It is found that the excited atoms appear on the discharge periphery mainly due to resonance radiation transport.
Concerted effort of centrosomal and Golgi-derived microtubules is required for proper Golgi complex assembly but not for maintenance
Authors: Vinogradova Tatiana , Paul Raja , Grimaldi Ashley D. , Loncarek Jadranka , Miller Paul M. , Yampolsky Dmitry , Magidson Valentin , Khodjakov Alexey , Mogilner Alex , Kaverina Irina
Published: January 2012

Assembly of an integral Golgi complex is driven by microtubule (MT)-dependent transport. Conversely, the Golgi itself functions as an unconventional MT-organizing center (MTOC). This raises the question of whether Golgi assembly requires centrosomal MTs or can be self-organized, relying on its own MTOC activity. The computational model presented here predicts that each MT population is capable of gathering Golgi stacks but not of establishing Golgi complex integrity or polarity. In contrast, the concerted effort of two MT populations would assemble an integral, polarized Golgi complex. Indeed, while laser ablation of the centrosome did not alter already-formed Golgi complexes, acentrosomal cells fail to reassemble an integral complex upon nocodazole washout. Moreover, polarity of post-Golgi trafficking was compromised under these conditions, leading to strong deficiency in polarized cell migration. Our data indicate that centrosomal MTs complement Golgi self-organization for proper Golgi assembly and motile-cell polarization.
YME1L controls the accumulation of respiratory chain subunits and is required for apoptotic resistance, cristae morphogenesis, and cell proliferation
Authors: Stiburek Lukas , Cesnekova Jana , Kostkova Olga , Fornuskova Daniela , Vinsova Kamila , Wenchich Laszlo , Houstek Josef , Zeman Jiri
Published: January 2012

Mitochondrial ATPases associated with diverse cellular activities (AAA) proteases are involved in the quality control and processing of inner-membrane proteins. Here we investigate the cellular activities of YME1L, the human orthologue of the Yme1 subunit of the yeast i‑AAA complex, using stable short hairpin RNA knockdown and expression experiments. Human YME1L is shown to be an integral membrane protein that exposes its carboxy-terminus to the intermembrane space and exists in several complexes of 600–1100 kDa. The stable knockdown of YME1L in human embryonic kidney 293 cells led to impaired cell proliferation and apoptotic resistance, altered cristae morphology, diminished rotenone-sensitive respiration, and increased susceptibility to mitochondrial membrane protein carbonylation. Depletion of YME1L led to excessive accumulation of nonassembled respiratory chain subunits (Ndufb6, ND1, and Cox4) in the inner membrane. This was due to a lack of YME1L proteolytic activity, since the excessive accumulation of subunits was reversed by overexpression of wild-type YME1L but not a proteolytically inactive YME1L variant. Similarly, the expression of wild-type YME1L restored the lamellar cristae morphology of YME1L-deficient mitochondria. Our results demonstrate the importance of mitochondrial inner-membrane proteostasis to both mitochondrial and cellular function and integrity and reveal a novel role for YME1L in the proteolytic regulation of respiratory chain biogenesis.
Pragmatic Modernism
Authors: Schoenbach Lisi
Published: January 2012

Modernism has long been understood as a radical repudiation of the past. Reading against the narrative of modernism-as-break, this book traces an alternative strain of modernist thought that grows out of pragmatist philosophy and is characterized by its commitment to gradualism, continuity, and recontextualization. It rediscovers a distinctive response to the social, intellectual, and artistic transformations of modernity in the work of Henry James, Marcel Proust, Gertrude Stein, Oliver Wendell Holmes, John Dewey, and William James. These thinkers share an institutionally-grounded approach to change which emphasizes habit, continuity, and daily life over spectacular events, heroic opposition, and radical rupture. They developed an active, dialectical approach to habit, maintaining a critical stance toward mindless repetitions while refusing to romanticize moments of shock or conflict. Through its analysis of pragmatist keywords, including “habit,” “institution,” “prediction,” and “bigness,” the book offers new readings of works by James, Proust, Stein, and Andre Breton, among others. It shows, for instance, how Stein’s characteristic literary innovation-her repetitions-aesthetically materialize the problem of habit; or how institutions in James’s novels-businesses, museums, newspapers, the law, and even the state itself-manage to shape and influence the subtlest of personal observations and private gestures. This study reconstructs an overlooked strain of modernism. In so doing, it helps us to reimagine the stark choice between political quietism and total revolution that has been handed down to us as modernism’s legacy.
Spell‐Out and the Minimalist Program
Authors: Uriagereka Juan
Published: January 2012

Since Juan Uriagereka originated the multiple spell-out model in 1999 it has been one of the most influential lines of research in syntactic theorizing. The model simplified a crucial element of the minimalist account of language making it a more accurate reflection of syntax and its acquisition. This book explores important consequences of the multiple spell-out hypothesis and of the linked notion of cyclicity. It combines the latest thinking in linguistics with perspectives drawn from physics, biology, and animal behaviour, aiming thereby to advance the field first described by Noam Chomsky as biolinguistics. Without simplifying, this book seeks to present the issues and their broader biological significance. The subjects discussed include the linearization of structure, the punctuated nature of a derivation (the multiple spell-out model), cyclicity and its consequences for locality, and the definition of c-command and its relevance to various types of grammatical dependency. The book discusses the evolutionary implications of Uriagereka's work, considering, for example, whether the punctuated nature of the derivation is a resolution of conflicting demands that yield an equilibrium found in nature more generally.
2 Beer Production, Profits, and Public Authorities in the Renaissance
Authors: Unger Richard W.
Published: January 2012

This chapter deals with a range of success-constraining problems which brewers faced during the Renaissance, despite a rapid growth in demand for beer and increasing sales. Technical changes led to higher average size of firms in the industry and so increased capital requirements. Governments at all levels took a greater interest in regulating and taxing brewing. The industry was largely urban and environmental degradation, in some cases caused by the ways of making beer, created pressure for more rules and more investment. Rising land costs along with rising prices of some principal raw materials also threatened the profitability of the industry. Eventually the hurdles proved too high and profits along with brewing stagnated or declined in the second half of the 17th century. Trends were all but universal in the beer-drinking regions of Europe.
8 Recent Economic Developments in the Import and Craft Segments of the US Brewing Industry
Authors: Tremblay Carol Horton , Tremblay Victor J.
Published: January 2012

This chapter explores recent economic trends in the import and craft sectors of the U.S. beer market. In 1970, beer sales of imports and crafts (microbrewers, brewpubs, and regional craft brewers) made up only 1% of U.S. beer sales, compared to 17% today. The reasons for this impressive gain are investigated. The data documented in this study include trends in market share; profit-to-sales ratios for the largest craft brewers; imports, exports, and import share by leading brands; advertising for leading brands; and demographic characteristics of beer consumers. Income and the demand for variety, novelty, and prestige appear to be important drivers of the increasing popularity of import and craft beers in the U.S.
10 Competition Policy towards Brewing: Rational Response to Market Power or Unwarranted Interference in Efficient Markets?
Authors: Slade Margaret E.
Published: January 2012

This chapter looks at general issues that competition authorities must face when designing a rational competition policy for any industry, and examines specific issues that arise when that industry is beer brewing. Both horizontal (i.e., firms in the same product market) and vertical (i.e., firms in a buying and selling chain) are considered, and the efficiency and market-power motives for common horizontal and vertical practices are assessed. These general issues are illustrated with two case studies, both from the UK beer industry. The horizontal case involves mergers among large brewers, whereas the vertical case involves the use of exclusive-dealing clauses and two-part tariffs in contracts between brewers and retailers.
The Geometry of Multidimensional Quadratic Utility in Models of Parliamentary Roll Call Voting
Authors: Poole Keith T.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this paper is to show how the geometry of the quadratic utility function in the standard spatial model of choice can be exploited to estimate a model of parliamentary roll call voting. In a standard spatial model of parliamentary roll call voting, the legislator votes for the policy outcome corresponding to Yea if her utility for Yea is greater than her utility for Nay. The voting decision of the legislator is modeled as a function of the difference between these two utilities. With quadratic utility, this difference has a simple geometric interpretation that can be exploited to estimate legislator ideal points and roll call parameters in a standard framework where the stochastic portion of the utility function is normally distributed. The geometry is almost identical to that used by Poole (2000) to develop a nonparametric unfolding of binary choice data and the algorithms developed by Poole (2000) can be easily modified to implement the standard maximum-likelihood model.
Estimating Voter Preference Distributions from Individual-Level Voting Data
Authors: Lewis Jeffrey B.
Published: January 2012

This paper presents a method for inferring the distribution of voter ideal points on a single dimension from individual-level binary choice data. The statistical model and estimation technique draw heavily on the psychometric literature on test taking and, in particular, on the work of Bock and Aitkin (1981) and are similar to several recent methods of estimating legislative ideal points (Londregan 2000; Bailey 2001). I present Monte Carlo results validating the method. The method is then applied to determining the partisan and ideological basis of support for presidential candidates in 1992 and to U.S. mass and congressional partisan realignment on abortion policy since 1973.
Epidemiology: clues to the pathogenesis of Burkitt lymphoma
Authors: Magrath Ian
Published: January 2012

The two major epidemiological clues to the pathogenesis of Burkitt lymphoma (BL) are the geographical association with malaria – BL incidence relates to the malaria transmission rate – and early infection by Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). Both agents cause B cell hyperplasia, which is almost certainly an essential component of lymphomagenesis in BL. The critical event in lymphomagenesis is the creation of a MYC translocation, bringing the MYC gene into juxtaposition with immunoglobulin genes and causing its ectopic expression, thereby driving the proliferation of BL cells. It is highly likely that such translocations are mediated by the activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID) gene, which is responsible for hypervariable region mutations as well as class switching. Stimulation of the Toll‐like receptor 9 by malaria‐associated agonists induces AID, providing a mechanism whereby malaria could directly influence BL pathogenesis. EBV‐containing cells must reach the memory cell compartment in order to survive throughout the life of the individual, which probably requires traversal of the germinal centre. Normally, cells that do not produce high affinity antibodies do not survive this passage, and are induced to undergo apoptosis. EBV, however, prevents this, and in doing so may also enhance the likelihood of survival of rare translocation‐containing cells.
Risk factors and treatment of childhood and adolescent Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia
Authors: Miles Rodney R. , Arnold Staci , Cairo Mitchell S.
Published: January 2012

Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia is the most common (40%) form of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma that occurs in children and adolescents. The prognosis of advanced (disseminated) Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia in children and adolescents three decades ago had a 5‐year event‐free survival (EFS) of <40%, and required combination chemotherapy and radiation therapy over a 1–2 year period. Currently, the prognosis for the same advanced stage has a 5‐year EFS of 85–90% with <6 months of chemotherapy only. Radiation therapy has been eliminated for children and adolescents with Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia except in emergencies, such as superior vena cava syndrome and acute neurological impairment or in patients with relapse/progression. Current risk factors in the prognosis of childhood and adolescent Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia include: lactate dehydrogenase level ≥ 2× the upper normal limit at diagnosis, bone marrow and central nervous system involvement, poor response to cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisone reduction therapy and poor risk cytogenetics. New and novel therapeutic approaches include monoclonal antibody (anti‐CD20) therapy, targeted cellular immune therapy and small molecule inhibitors. Future strategies should include improved staging and risk classification, reduction of cytotoxic chemotherapy, the investigation of targeted therapy, an increased understanding of the underlying biology of Burkitt lymphoma/leukaemia, strategies for prevention and approaches to reduce acute and chronic toxicities.
Proliferation and differentiation potential of cryopreserved human skin‐derived precursors
Authors: Bakhtiari M. , Mansouri K. , Sadeghi Y. , Mostafaie A.
Published: January 2012

Objectives:  Skin‐derived precursors are recognized to be a potentially autologous and accessible source of neural precursor cells for drug screening or cell‐based treatments, in many neurological disorders. Thus, it is necessary to investigate appropriate methods for cryopreservation of such human skin‐derived precursors (hSKPs). The aim of this study was to evaluate different cryopreservation techniques for retention of hSKPs to discover an optimized protocol.

Materials and methods:  We cryopreserved hSKPs treated with 0%, 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% foetal bovine serum (FBS) and three concentrations of dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) 5%, 10% and 15%, with two different storage periods in liquid nitrogen (2 days: short‐term storage; and 2 months: long‐term storage). Then, we assessed survival and proliferation levels of the cells after freeze–thaw processes, by viability measurement and colony‐forming assay. For detecting hSKPs, we used immunocytochemistry and RT‐PCR assessments.

Results:  Our findings indicated that hSKPs cryopreserved in 5% DMSO without FBS, had better survival and proliferation potentials compared to other working formulations. With various concentrations of cryoprotectants over different time periods, hSKPs retained their differentiation potentiality and were able to differentiate into neurons (NFM and βΙΙΙ tubulin‐positive), glial cells (GFAP‐positive) and smooth muscle cells (SMA‐positive).

Conclusions:  Results revealed that in only 5% DMSO, hSKPs could be cryopreserved for long‐term storage with considerable survival and proliferation levels, without losing multipotency.
Securin predicts aneuploidy and survival in breast cancer
Authors: Karra Henna , Pitkänen Reino , Nykänen Marjukka , Talvinen Kati , Kuopio Teijo , Söderström Mirva , Kronqvist Pauliina
Published: January 2012

Karra H, Pitkänen R, Nykänen M, Talvinen K, Kuopio T, Söderström M & Kronqvist P  (2012) Histopathology 60, 586–596 Securin predicts aneuploidy and survival in breast cancer

Aims:  Securin is known to participate in maintaining chromosomal integrity during the cell cycle through regulation of metaphase–anaphase transition, DNA damage repair, and apoptosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of securin in aneuploidy and prognosis in human breast cancer.

Methods and results:  The study was based on 603 breast cancer patients with up to 20 years of follow‐up. DNA content was determined by image cytometry on cell imprints, and securin immunohistochemistry was performed on tissue microarrays of breast cancer tissue. We show, for the first time in human breast cancer, that high‐level securin expression predicts abnormal DNA content, with up to 9.8‐fold odds for aneuploid DNA content (P = 0.0007). Securin also shows strong independent prognostic value for disease‐specific survival, with a significant difference in survival time between patients with low‐level and high‐level securin expression.

Conclusions:  The main result of the present study is the association of aneuploidy and securin expression. According to our results, securin immunohistochemistry is also a potential new prognosticator for treatment decisions concerning breast cancer patients.
Efficacy of D‐RaCe and ProTaper Universal Retreatment NiTi instruments and hand files in removing gutta‐percha from curved root canals – a micro‐computed tomography study
Authors: Rödig T. , Hausdörfer T. , Konietschke F. , Dullin C. , Hahn W. , Hülsmann M.
Published: January 2012

Rödig T, Hausdörfer T, Konietschke F, Dullin C, Hahn W, Hülsmann M. Efficacy of D‐RaCe and ProTaper Universal Retreatment NiTi instruments and hand files in removing gutta‐percha from curved root canals – a micro‐computed tomography study. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 580–589, 2012.

Aim  To compare the efficacy of two rotary NiTi retreatment systems and Hedström files in removing filling material from curved root canals.

Methodology  Curved root canals of 57 extracted teeth were prepared using FlexMaster instruments and filled with gutta‐percha and AH Plus. After determination of root canal curvatures and radii in two directions, the teeth were assigned to three identical groups (n = 19). The root fillings were removed with D‐RaCe instruments, ProTaper Universal Retreatment instruments or Hedström files. Pre‐ and postoperative micro‐CT imaging was used to assess the percentage of residual filling material as well as the amount of dentine removal. Working time and procedural errors were recorded. Data were analysed using analysis of covariance and analysis of variance procedures.

Results  D‐RaCe instruments were significantly more effective than ProTaper Universal Retreatment instruments and Hedström files (P < 0.05). Hedström files removed significantly less dentine than the rotary NiTi systems (P < 0.0001). D‐RaCe instruments were significantly faster compared to both other groups (P < 0.05). No procedural errors such as instrument fracture, blockage, ledging or perforation were detected in the Hedström group. In the ProTaper group, four instrument fractures and one lateral perforation were observed. Five instrument fractures were recorded for D‐RaCe.

Conclusions  D‐RaCe instruments were associated with significantly less residual filling material than ProTaper Universal Retreatment instruments and hand files. Hedström files removed significantly less dentine than both rotary NiTi systems. Retreatment with rotary NiTi systems resulted in a high incidence of procedural errors.
The reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire (W‐DEQ) with pregnant women
Authors: KORUKCU O. , KUKULU K. , FIRAT M. Z.
Published: January 2012

Accessible summary

The reliability and validity of the Turkish version of the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire suggests that the Turkish version of the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire has good comprehensibility, internal consistency and validity and is an adequate and useful instrument for the evaluation of fear of childbirth in Turkish pregnant women.

This methodological study was planned to translate the Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire (W‐DEQ) into Turkish and to investigate its reliability for both nulliparous and parous women in Turkish population. A total of 660 healthy women with normal pregnancies at gestational ages of between 28 and 40 weeks were recruited. The internal consistency reliability (Cronbach's α) was used for determining the reliability of the W‐DEQ. Construct validity was also determined utilizing the known‐groups method. In this study, independent sample t‐tests were used to compare the nulliparous and parous groups differing in known fear status. In order to test the construct of the W‐DEQ, Beck Anxiety Inventory, Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale and Brief Measure of Worry Severity scales were chosen as these scales are expected to correlate with the W‐DEQ. Analysis of the construct validity of the W‐DEQ version A using Pearson's correlation coefficients was performed for both nulliparous and parous women separately. All the scales in both groups showed a statistically significant correlation with the W‐DEQ. The alpha coefficient (0.89) is well above the 0.70 criterion for internal consistency reliability. Turkish form of Wijma Delivery Expectancy/Experience Questionnaire Version A was fixed as reliable and valid means to measure the level of fear of childbirth among Turkish pregnants.