bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
To resprout or not to resprout: factors driving intraspecific variability in resprouting
Authors: Moreira Bruno , Tormo Jaume , Pausas Juli G.
Published: January 2012

Resprouting is a mechanism that allows individual plants to persist in disturbance‐prone ecosystems. It is often considered a binary trait, defining species as resprouters or non‐resprouters. Although this dichotomous classification accounts for a high proportion of the interspecific variability in resprouting, it does not account for the intraspecific variability, as not all individuals of resprouting species successfully resprout, even if they are subject to a similar disturbance. To ascertain the causes of the intraspecific variability in resprouting we propose a conceptual model that disaggregates the process of resprouting into three sequential steps: initial ability to resprout, resprouting vigour and post‐resprouting survival. To test this model, we clipped 151 plants of three resprouting species (Anthyllis cytisoides, Globularia alypum and Linum suffruticosum) and, for each individual, we analysed the carbohydrate (starch and soluble sugars) and nutrient (N and P) concentrations in the roots at the moment of the disturbance (clipping all aboveground biomass). We then monitored initial ability to resprout, resprouting vigour and post‐resprouting survival in each individual during a one‐year period. Anthyllis showed high initial ability to resprout and high post‐resprouting survival. Globularia and Linum had low final resprouting success, mainly due to their low post‐resprouting survival, but also to the low initial ability to resprout in Linum. All three species showed variable resprouting vigour. Our results suggest that resprouting success is limited by different phases of the process of resprouting, depending on the species. Intraspecific variability in resprouting supported the importance of: a) the pre‐disturbance state of the plant (i.e. plant size and stored resources) on the initial ability to resprout and on the resprouting vigour, and b) the initial post‐disturbance capacity to acquire resources (i.e. resprouting vigour) on the post‐resprouting survival. The proposed three‐step model of resprouting provides a mechanistic description of the factors driving intraspecific variability in resprouting.
Long‐term cognitive outcomes of extremely low‐birth‐weight infants: the influence of the maternal educational background
Authors: Voss W , Jungmann T , Wachtendorf M , Neubauer AP
Published: January 2012

Aim:  The purpose of the present contribution is to analyse the relationships between perinatal risk factors, social parameters and neurodevelopmental outcomes in extremely low‐birth‐weight (ELBW) children up to the age of 10–13 years.

Methods:  Of 200 live‐born ELBW infants, 148 were enrolled in the high‐risk infant follow‐up programme. Each follow‐up visit included a neurodevelopmental examination and an interview with the infant’s parents. Multivariate analyses using SPSS (version 17.0, Chicago, IL, USA) were conducted, and a p‐value of <0.05 indicated a statistically significant result.

Results:  The results of the logistic regression analysis of the biological and sociodemographic risk factors illustrated that a low maternal educational background is the most important factor (OR, 21.9) associated with a decreased composite intelligence quotient (IQ) in children between 10 and 13 years old. A Grade III or Grade IV intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) or periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) were also associated with decreased IQ at the age of 10–13 years (OR, 6.9). These results were confirmed by ANOVAs with repeated measurements.

Conclusion:  Maternal educational background is the strongest predictor of long‐term neurodevelopment in ELBW children. The findings emphasize the need for special support and follow‐up care services for poorly educated parents.
Biochemistry of Parkinson’s disease – insights from cellular models, animal models and human tissue specimens obtained by autopsy
Authors: Fasano Mauro
Published: January 2012

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Mutations in hpyAVIBM, C5 cytosine DNA methyltransferase from Helicobacter pylori result in relaxed specificity
Authors: Kumar Ritesh , Sabareesh Varatharajan , Mukhopadhyay Asish K. , Rao Desirazu N.
Published: January 2012

The genome of Helicobacter pylori is rich in restriction–modification (RM) systems. Approximately 4% of the genome codes for components of RM systems. hpyAVIBM, which codes for a phase‐variable C5 cytosine methyltransferase (MTase) from H. pylori, lacks a cognate restriction enzyme. Over‐expression of M.HpyAVIB in Escherichia coli enhances the rate of mutations. However, when the catalytically inactive F9N or C82W mutants of M.HpyAVIB were expressed in E. coli, mutations were not observed. The M.HpyAVIB gene itself was mutated to give rise to different variants of the MTase. M.HpyAVIB variants were purified and differences in kinetic properties and specificity were observed. Intriguingly, purified MTase variants showed relaxed substrate specificity. Homologues of hpyAVIBM homologues amplified and sequenced from different clinical isolates showed similar variations in sequence. Thus, hpyAVIBM presents an interesting example of allelic variations in H. pylori where changes in the nucleotide sequence result in proteins with new properties.
Discovery of Small Molecule Inhibitors that Interact with γ‐Tubulin
Authors: Friesen Douglas E. , Barakat Khaled H. , Semenchenko Valentyna , Perez‐Pineiro Rolando , Fenske Bruce W. , Mane Jonathan , Wishart David S. , Tuszynski Jack A.
Published: January 2012

Recent studies have shown an overexpression of γ‐tubulin in human glioblastomas and glioblastoma cell lines. As the 2‐year survival rate for glioblastoma is very poor, potential benefit exists for discovering novel chemotherapeutic agents that can inhibit γ‐tubulin, which is known to form a ring complex that acts as a microtubule nucleation center. We present experimental evidence that colchicine and combretastatin A‐4 bind to γ‐tubulin, which are to our knowledge the first drug‐like compounds known to interact with γ‐tubulin. Molecular dynamics simulations and docking studies were used to analyze the hypothesized γ‐tubulin binding domain of these compounds. The suitability of the potential binding modes was evaluated and suggests the subsequent rational design of novel targeted inhibitors of γ‐tubulin.
Sprint exercise enhances skeletal muscle p70S6k phosphorylation and more so in women than in men
Authors: Esbjörnsson M. , Rundqvist H. C. , Mascher H. , Österlund T. , Rooyackers O. , Blomstrand E. , Jansson E.
Published: January 2012

Aim:

Sprint exercise is characterized by repeated sessions of brief intermittent exercise at a high relative workload. However, little is known about the effect on mTOR pathway, an important link in the regulation of muscle protein synthesis. An earlier training study showed a greater increase in muscle fibre cross‐sectional area in women than men. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that the activation of mTOR signalling is more pronounced in women than in men. Healthy men (n = 9) and women (n = 8) performed three bouts of 30‐s sprint exercise with 20‐min rest in between.

Methods:

Multiple blood samples were collected over time, and muscle biopsy specimens were obtained at rest and 140 min after the last sprint.

Results:

Serum insulin increased by sprint exercise and more so in women than in men [gender (g) × time (t)]: P = 0.04. In skeletal muscle, phosphorylation of Akt increased by 50% (t, P = 0.001) and mTOR by 120% (t, P = 0.002) independent of gender. The elevation in p70S6k phosphorylation was larger in women (g × t, P = 0.03) and averaged 230% (P = 0.006) as compared to 60% in men (P = 0.04). Phosphorylation rpS6 increased by 660% over time independent of gender (t, P = 0.003). Increase in the phosphorylation of p70S6k was directly related to increase in serum insulin (r = 0.68, P = 0.004).

Conclusion:

It is concluded that repeated 30‐s all‐out bouts of sprint exercise separated by 20 min of rest increases Akt/mTOR signalling in skeletal muscle. Secondly, signalling downstream of mTOR was stronger in women than in men after sprint exercise indicated by the increased phosphorylation of p70S6k.
Genetic structure and rabies spread potential in raccoons: the role of landscape barriers and sex‐biased dispersal
Authors: Côté Héloïse , Garant Dany , Robert Karine , Mainguy Julien , Pelletier Fanie
Published: January 2012

Identifying natural barriers to movements of hosts associated with infectious diseases is essential for developing effective control strategies. Raccoon rabies variant (RRV) is a zoonosis of concern for humans because its main vector, the raccoon (Procyon lotor), is found near residential areas. In Québec, Canada, all cases of RRV found in raccoons since 2006 were detected on the eastern side of the Richelieu River, suggesting that this river acts as a barrier to gene flow and thus the potential for RRV to spread. The objectives of this study were to characterize the genetic structure of raccoon populations and assess the effect of the Richelieu River on the population structure in southern Québec, Canada. We also evaluated whether RRV spread potential differed between sex and at a larger spatial scale. Our analyses revealed a weak signal of genetic differentiation among individuals located on each side of the Richelieu River. At a larger spatial scale, genetic structuring was weak. Our results suggest that rivers might not always efficiently restrain raccoon movements and spread of RRV. We suggest that the difference in genetic structure found between sexes can be partly explained by male movements during the breeding season in winter, when ice bridges allow passage over most rivers in Québec.
Topical drug delivery to the eye: dorzolamide
Authors: Loftsson Thorsteinn , Jansook Phatsawee , Stefánsson Einar
Published: January 2012

Topically applied carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) in eye drop solutions are commonly used to treat glaucoma. However, local eye irritation and multiple daily administrations may hamper their clinical usefulness. Aqueous eye drop formulations that improve their topical bioavailability and reduce their eye irritation can improve their clinical efficacy. Earlier studies showed that dorzolamide and closely related CAIs are more effectively delivered into the eye from acidic eye drop solutions than from comparable neutral solutions. Consequently, dorzolamide was marketed as an aqueous pH 5.6 eye drop solution (Trusopt®, Merck). Later, it was shown that increasing the pH of the eye drops from pH 5.6 to physiologic pH significantly reduced their local irritation. Earlier attempts to use cyclodextrins (CDs) as ocular penetration enhancers in dorzolamide eye drop solutions failed since; although the CDs were able to enhance the aqueous solubility of dorzolamide, increasing the pH from 5.6 to physiologic pH reduced the ability of the drug to permeate into the eye. Later, it was discovered that formulating the drug as aqueous dorzolamide/γCD eye drop microparticle suspension resulted in significant bioavailability enhancement. The solid dorzolamide/γCD microparticles are mucoadhesive and release dorzolamide into the aqueous tear fluid for extended time period. Consequently, sustained high dorzolamide concentrations in aqueous humour and various eye tissues were observed after single administration of the aqueous dorzolamide/γCD eye drop microsuspension. The microsuspension has a potential of being developed into a once‐a‐day eye drop product. This article reviews the physicochemical properties of dorzolamide, its permeation characteristics and topical bioavailability.
Karyology of the genus Faberia (Cichorieae–Asteraceae) and its systematic implications
Authors: Liu Ying , Deng Tao , Yang Qin‐Er
Published: January 2012

Faberia Hemsl., a small genus of six species in the tribe Cichorieae, Asteraceae, has been karyologically investigated for the first time. All four studied species were revealed to have the somatic chromosome number 2n = 34, and thus the basic number of the genus was assumed to be x = 17. This rather high basic number has been previously reported very rarely in the tribe, occurring otherwise only in Warionia Benth. & Coss., a monospecific genus endemic to northwestern Africa, and in the American species of Lactuca L. The chromosome morphology was very similar among the four species, with the majority being median centromeric (m) and a few submedian centromeric (sm). In all the karyotypes the chromosomes were medium‐sized (6.33–1.61 μm), and showed a steady gradation in length from the longest to the shortest, with no evidence of bimodality. Our results strongly support the recognition of Faberia as an independent genus and the inclusion of Faberiopsis Shih & Y. L. Chen in Faberia.
FromL-series of elliptic curves to Mahler measures
Authors: Rogers Mathew , Zudilin Wadim
Published: January 2012

We prove the conjectural relations between Mahler measures andL-values of elliptic curves of conductors 20 and 24. We also present new hypergeometric expressions forL-values of elliptic curves of conductors 27 and 36. Furthermore, we prove a new functional equation for the Mahler measure of the polynomial family (1+X) (1+Y)(X+Y)−αXY,α∈ℝ.
Analysis of Heat Loadings in the Forced Cooled Electronic Chassis or Cold Plate
Authors: Kraus Allan D.
Published: January 2012

The forced cooled electronic chassis is revisited and, because of recent developments, changes which amend the design procedure are proposed. These considerations involve the thickness of the cover and splitter plates dictated by the Murray–Gardner assumptions, the impact of the so-called heat flow choke, and the development of a new concept involving the equivalent height of a fin. The current literature is reviewed and summarized, so that the new concept proposed here can be clearly apparent.
Effect of the Intra-Abdominal Pressure and the Center of Segmental Body Mass on the Lumbar Spine Mechanics – A Computational Parametric Study
Authors: Park W. M. , Wang S. , Kim Y. H. , Wood K. B. , Sim J. A. , Li G.
Published: January 2012

Determination of physiological loads in human lumbar spine is critical for understanding the mechanisms of lumbar diseases and for designing surgical treatments. Computational models have been used widely to estimate the physiological loads of the spine during simulated functional activities. However, various assumptions on physiological factors such as the intra-abdominal pressure (IAP), centers of mass (COMs) of the upper body and lumbar segments, and vertebral centers of rotation (CORs) have been made in modeling techniques. Systematic knowledge of how these assumptions will affect the predicted spinal biomechanics is important for improving the simulation accuracy. In this paper, we developed a 3D subject-specific numerical model of the lumbosacral spine including T12 and 90 muscles. The effects of the IAP magnitude and COMs locations on the COR of each motion segment and on the joint/muscle forces were investigated using a global convergence optimization procedure when the subject was in a weight bearing standing position. The data indicated that the line connecting the CORs showed a smaller curvature than the lordosis of the lumbar spine in standing posture when the IAP was 0 kPa and the COMs were 10 mm anterior to the geometric center of the T12 vertebra. Increasing the IAP from 0 kPa to 10 kPa shifted the location of CORs toward the posterior direction (from 1.4 ± 8.9 mm anterior to intervertebral disc (IVD) centers to 40.5 ± 3.1 mm posterior to the IVD centers) and reduced the average joint force (from 0.78 ± 0.11 Body weight (BW) to 0.31 ± 0.07 BW) and overall muscle force (from 349.3 ± 57.7 N to 221.5 ± 84.2 N). Anterior movement of the COMs from −30 mm to 70 mm relative to the geometric center of T12 vertebra caused an anterior shift of the CORs (from 25.1 ± 8.3 mm posterior to IVD centers to 7.8 ± 6.2 mm anterior to IVD centers) and increases of average joint forces (from 0.78 ± 0.1 BW to 0.93 ± 0.1 BW) and muscle force (from 348.9 ± 47.7 N to 452.9 ± 58.6 N). Therefore, it is important to consider the IAP and correct COMs in order to accurately simulate human spine biomechanics. The method and results of this study could be useful for designing prevention strategies of spinal injuries and recurrences, and for enhancing rehabilitation efficiency.
Optimization of Cardiovascular Stent Design Using Computational Fluid Dynamics
Authors: Gundert Timothy J. , Marsden Alison L. , Yang Weiguang , LaDisa John F.
Published: January 2012

Coronary stent design affects the spatial distribution of wall shear stress (WSS), which can influence the progression of endothelialization, neointimal hyperplasia, and restenosis. Previous computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies have only examined a small number of possible geometries to identify stent designs that reduce alterations in near-wall hemodynamics. Based on a previously described framework for optimizing cardiovascular geometries, we developed a methodology that couples CFD and three-dimensional shape-optimization for use in stent design. The optimization procedure was fully-automated, such that solid model construction, anisotropic mesh generation, CFD simulation, and WSS quantification did not require user intervention. We applied the method to determine the optimal number of circumferentially repeating stent cells (NC) for slotted-tube stents with various diameters and intrastrut areas. Optimal stent designs were defined as those minimizing the area of low intrastrut time-averaged WSS. Interestingly, we determined that the optimal value of NC was dependent on the intrastrut angle with respect to the primary flow direction. Further investigation indicated that stent designs with an intrastrut angle of approximately 40 deg minimized the area of low time-averaged WSS regardless of vessel size or intrastrut area. Future application of this optimization method to commercially available stent designs may lead to stents with superior hemodynamic performance and the potential for improved clinical outcomes.
Mechanical Behavior of Collagen-Fibrin Co-Gels Reflects Transition From Series to Parallel Interactions With Increasing Collagen Content
Authors: Lai Victor K. , Lake Spencer P. , Frey Christina R. , Tranquillo Robert T. , Barocas Victor H.
Published: January 2012

Fibrin and collagen, biopolymers occurring naturally in the body, are biomaterials commonly-used as scaffolds for tissue engineering. How collagen and fibrin interact to confer macroscopic mechanical properties in collagen-fibrin composite systems remains poorly understood. In this study, we formulated collagen-fibrin co-gels at different collagen-to-fibrin ratios to observe changes in the overall mechanical behavior and microstructure. A modeling framework of a two-network system was developed by modifying our micro-scale model, considering two forms of interaction between the networks: (a) two interpenetrating but noninteracting networks (“parallel”), and (b) a single network consisting of randomly alternating collagen and fibrin fibrils (“series”). Mechanical testing of our gels show that collagen-fibrin co-gels exhibit intermediate properties (UTS, strain at failure, tangent modulus) compared to those of pure collagen and fibrin. The comparison with model predictions show that the parallel and series model cases provide upper and lower bounds, respectively, for the experimental data, suggesting that a combination of such interactions exists between the collagen and fibrin in co-gels. A transition from the series model to the parallel model occurs with increasing collagen content, with the series model best describing predominantly fibrin co-gels, and the parallel model best describing predominantly collagen co-gels.
A new multimedia resource for teaching quantum mechanics concepts
Authors: Kohnle Antje , Cassettari Donatella , Edwards Tom J. , Ferguson Callum , Gillies Alastair D. , Hooley Christopher A. , Korolkova Natalia , Llama Joseph , Sinclair Bruce D.
Published: January 2012

We describe a collection of interactive animations and visualizations for teaching quantum mechanics. The animations can be used at all levels of the undergraduate curriculum. Each animation includes a step-by-step exploration that explains the key points. The animations and instructor resources are freely available. By using a diagnostic survey, we report substantial learning gains for students who have worked with the animations.
Cappuccino and Specific Heat Versus Heat of Vaporization
Authors: Hidden Frits , Boomsma Jorn , Schins Anton , van den Berg Ed
Published: January 2012

A cappuccino is prepared by adding about 50 mL frothing, foaming milk to a cup of espresso. Whole milk is best for foaming and the ideal milk temperature when adding it to the espresso is 65 °C. The espresso itself may be warmer than that. During the heating the milk should not burn, as that would spoil the taste. The best way is to heat the milk slowly while stirring to froth the milk and create foam. But modern cappuccino machines in restaurants do not have time for slow heating. Could we heat the milk by just adding hot water?
Solving permutations in frequency-domain for blind separation of an arbitrary number of speech sources
Authors: Durán-Díaz Iván , Sarmiento Auxiliadora , Cruces Sergio , Aguilera Pablo
Published: January 2012

Blind separation of speech sources in reverberant environments is usually performed in the time-frequency domain, which gives rise to the permutation problem: the different ordering of estimated sources for different frequency components. A two-stage method to solve permutations with an arbitrary number of sources is proposed. The suggested procedure is based on the spectral consistency of the sources. At the first stage frequency bins are compared with each other, while at the second stage the neighboring frequencies are emphasized. Experiments for perfect separation situations and for live recordings show that the proposed method improves the results of existing approaches.
Frequency dependent beating patterns and amplitude increase during the approach of an internal wave packet
Authors: Luo Jing , Badiey Mohsen
Published: January 2012

A frequency-dependent beating pattern in the spectrogram of broadband signals transmitted during the approach of an internal wave packet to an acoustic propagating path is reported. An analytical expression relating the acoustic signal measurements and environmental parameters under certain conditions is obtained. Three-dimensional parabolic equation modeling results compare well with Shallow Water 2006 experiment data.
Oral ingestion of a topical benzydamine hydrochloride-containing gynaecological preparation in association with television advertising in Italy: analysis of cases managed by a National Poison Control Centre
Authors: Settimi Laura , Davanzo Franca , Lauria Laura , Casini Maria Luisa , Ferrazin Fernanda
Published: January 2012

Objective

To evaluate the impact of a television advertising campaign on the risk of oral ingestion of a topical non-prescription gynaecological preparation containing benzydamine hydrochloride.

Design

An interrupted time series design with data routinely collected.

Setting

A National Poison Control Centre.

Participants

215 cases of hazardous exposure to the preparation under study occurred in Italy from January 2005 to December 2010.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Mean daily rate of cases of exposure by gender in three different periods, that is,pre-advertisementperiod, before the advertisement was broadcast (from 1 January 2005 to 19 December 2009),advertisementperiod, when the advertisement was repeatedly launched (from 20 December 2009 to 27 February 2010),post-advertisement period(from 28 February 2010 to 6 March 2010); observed/expected ratios of cases, with expected cases based on data from thepre-advertisementperiod, adjusted for estimated variations in the number of users. Comparison of the distribution of the main characteristics of cases in the three different periods by means of Pearson's χ2test or Fisher's exact test.

Results

The adjusted observed/expected ratio of cases in women was 7.48 (95% CI 5.76 to 9.56) in theadvertisementperiod and 2.97 (95% CI 2.24 to 3.85) in thepost-advertisement period. Regarding the characteristics of cases, there was an increased proportion of cases of exposure due to confusion about the correct administration route in theadvertisementandpost-advertisementperiods (81% and 55%, respectively, compared to 16% for thepre-advertisementperiod.) and of individuals with clinical effects (55%, 52% and 27%, respectively).

Conclusions

In Italy, an advertisement for a non-prescription medicine seems to have confused consumers regarding the administration route. This effect was observed even after the advertisement had stopped being broadcast. These results highlight the need for the monitoring of medication errors and adverse effects before, during and after advertising.
A cross-sectional study of breast cancer biomarkers among shift working nurses
Authors: Langley Annie R , Graham Charles H , Grundy Anne L , Tranmer Joan E , Richardson Harriet , Aronson Kristan J
Published: January 2012

Objectives

In 2007, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified long-term shift work as a probable carcinogen, with the strongest evidence for breast cancer. One proposed mechanism involves night-time light exposure and decreases in melatonin, a circadian rhythmic hormone. It is hypothesised that melatonin influences patterns of sex hormone production that in turn influence breast cancer risk. This study sought to investigate the relationships of shift work history, 6-sulfatoxymelatonin (aMTs-6, the primary melatonin metabolite) and sex hormone levels among shift working nurses.

Design

This is a cross-sectional biomarker study.

Setting

94 premenopausal nurses who work a full-time rotating shift schedule at one Ontario hospital were recruited for this study; 82 completed follow-up.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Study participants provided morning void urine and fasting blood samples for the assessment of aMTs-6 and sex hormone (oestradiol, oestrone, progesterone, prolactin) levels, respectively. These data were collected at two time points (summer and winter) such that relationships between melatonin and sex hormones could be assessed with respect to two time frames of interest (acute and cross-seasonal).

Results

An inverse relationship between aMTs-6 and oestradiol was suggested in the winter (β=−0.18, p=0.04), but this result was not statistically significant in multivariate modelling that adjusted for age, body mass index and menstrual cycle. Likewise, while oestradiol, oestrone and progesterone levels increased with greater years of shift work history (all p<0.05), these associations were attenuated after confounder adjustment.

Conclusions

These results do not support the proposed relationship between melatonin and sex hormone levels as biomarkers on the pathway of shift work and breast cancer but emphasise the importance of adjusting for confounders in modelling.
Protocol for a qualitative study exploring the roles of ‘Diffusion Fellows’ in bridging the research to practice gap in the Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Lincolnshire Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care (CLAHRC-NDL)
Authors: Rowley Emma
Published: January 2012

Introduction

Evidence produced by researchers is not comprehensibly used in practice. National Institute for Health Research Collaboration for Leadership in Applied Health Research and Care for Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and Lincolnshire's strategy for closing the research to practice gap relies on the use of ‘Diffusion Fellows’ (DFs). DFs are seconded from the local healthcare economy to act as champions for change, translating and disseminating knowledge from practice into the research studies and vice versa, taking the knowledge developed by academics back into their own practice environments. This paper outlines the rationale and design of a qualitative evaluation study of the DF role.

Methods and analysis

The evaluation responds to the research question: what are the barriers and facilitators to DFs acting as knowledge brokers and boundary spanners? Interviews will be carried out annually with DFs, the research team they work with and their line managers in the employing organisations. Interviews with DFs will be supplemented with a creative mapping component, offering them the opportunity to construct a 3D model to creatively illustrate some of the barriers precluding them from successfully carrying out their role. This method is popular for problem solving and is valuable for both introducing an issue that might be difficult to initially verbalise and to reflect upon experiences.

Ethics and dissemination

DFs have an important role within the CLAHRC and are central to our implementation and knowledge mobilisation strategies. It is important to understand as much about their activities as possible in order for the CLAHRC to support the DFs in the most appropriate way. Dissemination will occur through presentations and publications in order that learning from the use of DFs can be shared as widely as possible. The study has received ethical approval from Nottingham 2 Research Ethics Committee and has all appropriate NHS governance clearances.
TLR-4 expression and decrease in chronic inflammation: indicators of aggressive follicular thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Hagström Jaana , Heikkilä Annukka , Siironen Päivi , Louhimo Johanna , Heiskanen Ilkka , Mäenpää Hanna , Arola Johanna , Haglund Caj
Published: January 2012

Background

Well-differentiated follicular thyroid carcinoma usually has a favourable prognosis and metastases are rare. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) that take part in adaptive and innate immunity have, in many tumours, both apoptotic and antiapoptotic effects, making their role in tumourigenesis controversial. Chronic inflammation is involved in many cancers.

Aims

To examine the clinical relevance of TLR-2, TLR-4, and CD45 in follicular thyroid neoplasias.

Methods

The authors studied the immunohistochemical expression of TLR-2 and TLR-4 in 127 follicular thyroid neoplasms, both in adenomas and in carcinomas including oxyphilic tumours. Their degree of chronic inflammation was evaluated by a count of CD45-positive lymphocytes within and adjacent to the tumourous tissue.

Results

Both high TLR-4 expression and lack of TLR-4 expression in carcinomas were associated with metastatic and aggressive disease. In oxyphilic tumours, both in adenomas and in carcinomas, TLR-4 expression was significantly stronger. TLR-2 expression was stronger in adenomas than in carcinomas but without any correlation with clinical variables. Degree of chronic inflammation outside the primary tumour was lower for metastasized carcinomas than for non-metastasised carcinomas.

Conclusions

Varying expression of TLR-4 and lack of inflammation are indicators of aggressive disease among follicular thyroid cancer.
Transorbital direct puncture of the posterior cavernous sinus through the internal carotid artery for embolization of isolated cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistula
Authors: Luo Chao-Bao , Teng Michael M H , Chang Feng-Chi , Guo Wan-Yuo , Chang Cheng-Yen
Published: January 2012

Background

Most cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistulas (CSDAVFs) present with benign ocular symptoms; isolated CSDAVFs with aggressive behavior are extremely rare. The treatment goal is to occlude the fistula totally. However, transarterial or venous access may not be possible because of complex angioarchitecture.

Case description

A woman in her late 70s presented with progressive respiratory failure and rapid deterioration of limb muscle power. Imaging studies showed an isolated CSDAVF with exclusive venous drainage to the deep venous system leading to venous hypertension as well as ischemic changes in the brain stem, left thalamus and basal ganglia. Transvascular access of the cavernous sinus (CS) failed. The fistula was eventually occluded by transorbital direct puncture of the posterior CS through the internal carotid artery (ICA) with coils delivered into the CS. The holes in the walls of the ICA created by the puncture needle were sealed by detachable coils and the patient was discharged with mild paresis.

Conclusion

Although more invasive than the transvascular route and possibly associated with the risk of loss of visual acuity and occurrence of subarachnoid hemorrhage, transorbital direct puncture of the posterior CS through the ICA is an alternative and feasible method to treat isolated aggressive CSDAVFs when access by the transvascular route fails.
Endovascular coil embolization of a very small ruptured aneurysm using a novel microangiographic technique: technical note
Authors: Kan Peter , Yashar Parham , Ionita Ciprian N , Jain Amit , Rudin Stephen , Levy Elad I , Siddiqui Adnan H
Published: January 2012

Endovascular treatment of very small aneurysms is technically difficult, although recent advances with coils, microcatheters and adjunctive techniques such as balloon- or stent-assisted coiling have improved the outcomes. The microangiographic fluoroscope (MAF) is a new high-resolution x-ray detector developed for neurointerventional procedures in which superior resolution is required within a small field of view. We report the successful coil embolization of a very small ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm using the MAF technique. The use of the MAF facilitated the precision of the coiling procedure and was helpful in preventing catheter- and coil-related intraprocedural complications.
Imaging in pulmonary hypertension, part 1: clinical perspectives, classification, imaging techniques and imaging algorithm
Authors: McCann Caroline , Gopalan Deepa , Sheares Karen , Screaton Nicholas
Published: January 2012

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is an uncommon condition associated with significant morbidity and mortality. It has diverse aetiology with differing clinical presentations, imaging features and treatments that range from surgical treatment of proximal chronic thromboembolic disease to targeted medical therapies in small vessel disease. Current classification of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is clinically based and groups diseases with similar pathophysiological mechanisms and therapeutic approaches. Groupings include conditions characterised by diffuse small vessel diseases such as idiopathic PAH, PH secondary to chronic hypoxic lung disease, left sided cardiac disease, chronic large vessel obstruction such as chronic thromboembolic disease and a miscellaneous group of diseases. The physiological manifestation of all of these diseases is increased pulmonary vascular resistance and PAH and while clinical features may provide a clue to diagnosis imaging plays a fundamental role in establishing a precise diagnosis and therefore guides therapy. A broad range of imaging modalities is available for the patient with suspected PH including chest radiograph, echocardiography, ventilation/perfusion scintigraphy, catheter pulmonary angiography as well as cross-sectional CT and MRI. Each modality has its strengths and limitations and different techniques may be used at different stages of diagnostic investigation and frequently complement each other. For example, while MRI and echocardiography permit cardiac structural and functional assessment, CT pulmonary angiography provides exquisite morphological information about the proximal pulmonary vasculature and lung parenchyma but little functional information. Modern cross-sectional imaging techniques (CT and MRI) hold the promise of a comprehensive evaluation of the heart, circulation and lung parenchyma in PH. The authors present a multimodality-imaging algorithm for the investigation of patients with suspected PH though it is acknowledged that there is some variation in practice depending on availability of resources and expertise.
Observations on the epidemiology of autumn nematodirosis in weaned lambs in a Scottish sheep flock
Authors: Sargison N. D. , Wilson D. J. , Scott P. R.
Published: January 2012

Nematodirosis was diagnosed in the south‐east of Scotland during two consecutive autumns in lambs which were grazed on the same field. The problem was unpredicted based on the knowledge of the pasture and animal management, and rudimentary understanding of the behaviour of free‐living stages of Nematodirus battus in the region. Unlike the epidemiology that has been described in the south of England, whereby autumn infection of lambs is believed to arise from autumn hatching of eggs shed during the previous spring without prior chilling, it is concluded that the autumn nematodirosis in a particular sheep flock in Scotland most likely arose following prolonged survival of larvae hatched during the spring from eggs shed during the previous summer, following periods of cold exposure over the previous winter. The infective larvae survived in large numbers in a small, sheltered strip of rough grazing, where they would have been protected from harmful ultraviolet radiation and heavy rainfall, before infecting lambs during the autumn. Understanding of the evolutionary potential, nematode parasites to adapt to changing environmental conditions depends on a thorough clinical investigative approach, and is a prerequisite for future preventive management.
Novel bivalent vectored vaccine for control of myxomatosis and rabbit haemorrhagic disease
Authors: Spibey N. , McCabe V. J. , Greenwood N. M. , Jack S. C. , Sutton D. , van der Waart L.
Published: January 2012

A novel, recombinant myxoma virus‐rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) vaccine has been developed for the prevention of myxomatosis and rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD). A number of laboratory studies are described illustrating the safety and efficacy of the vaccine following subcutaneous administration in laboratory rabbits from four weeks of age onwards. In these studies, both vaccinated and unvaccinated control rabbits were challenged using pathogenic strains of RHD and myxoma viruses, and 100 per cent of the vaccinated rabbits were protected against both myxomatosis and RHD.
Treatment of Fournier's Gangrene with Combination of Vacuum-Assisted Closure Therapy, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, and Protective Colostomy
Authors: Zagli Giovanni , Cianchi Giovanni , Degl'Innocenti Sara , Parodo Jessyca , Bonetti Lorenzo , Prosperi Paolo , Peris Adriano
Published: January 2012

Fournier's gangrene is a rare process which affects soft tissue in the genital and perirectal area. It can also progress to all different stages of sepsis, and abdominal compartment syndrome can be one of its complications. Two patients in septic shock due to Fournier gangrene were admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of Emergency Department. In both cases, infection started from the scrotum and the necrosis quickly involved genitals, perineal, and inguinal regions. Patients were treated with surgical debridement, protective colostomy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and broad-spectrum antibacterial chemotherapy. Vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) therapy was applied to the wound with the aim to clean, decontaminate, and avoid abdominal compartmental syndrome development. Both patients survived and were discharged from Intensive Care Unit after hyperbaric oxygen therapy cycles and abdominal closure.
Forearm Compartment Syndrome following Thrombolytic Therapy for Massive Pulmonary Embolism: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Badge Ravi , Hemmady Mukesh
Published: January 2012

Use of thrombolytic therapy in pulmonary embolism is restricted in cases of massive embolism. It achieves faster lysis of the thrombus than the conventional heparin therapy thus reducing the morbidity and mortality associated with PE. The compartment syndrome is a well-documented, potentially lethal complication of thrombolytic therapy and known to occur in the limbs involved for vascular lines or venepunctures. The compartment syndrome in a conscious and well-oriented patient is mainly diagnosed on clinical ground with its classical signs and symptoms like disproportionate pain, tense swollen limb and pain on passive stretch. However these findings may not be appropriately assessed in an unconscious patient and therefore the clinicians should have high index of suspicion in a patient with an acutely swollen tense limb. In such scenarios a prompt orthopaedic opinion should be considered. In this report, we present a case of acute compartment syndrome of the right forearm in a 78 years old male patient following repeated attempts to secure an arterial line for initiating the thrombolytic therapy for the management of massive pulmonary embolism. The patient underwent urgent surgical decompression of the forearm compartments and thus managed to save his limb.
Effect of Narrowband Interference on Galileo E1 Signal Receiver Performance
Authors: Zhang Jie , Lohan Elena-Simona
Published: January 2012

Satellite navigation technology is becoming essential for civil application. The high-accuracy navigation service is demanded. However, the satellite signal may be exposed to the signal from other systems, which are sharing the same frequency band. This is a potential threat for the performance of navigation devices. The aim of this paper is to present an interference impact assessment in the context of global navigation based on the new modulation Composite Binary Offset Carrier (CBOC) that will be used for Galileo E1 civil signal. The focus is on the analysis of the Galileo CBOC-modulated signal robustness against narrowband interference.
Divergent Evolution of Male Aggressive Behaviour: Another Reproductive Isolation Barrier in Extremophile Poeciliid Fishes?
Authors: Bierbach David , Klein Moritz , Sassmannshausen Vanessa , Schlupp Ingo , Riesch Rüdiger , Parzefall Jakob , Plath Martin
Published: January 2012

Reproductive isolation among locally adapted populations may arise when immigrants from foreign habitats are selected against via natural or (inter-)sexual selection (female mate choice). We asked whether also intrasexual selection through male-male competition could promote reproductive isolation among populations of poeciliid fishes that are locally adapted to extreme environmental conditions [i.e., darkness in caves and/or toxic hydrogen sulphide (H2S)]. We found strongly reduced aggressiveness in extremophile Poecilia mexicana, and darkness was the best predictor for the evolutionary reduction of aggressiveness, especially when combined with presence of H2S. We demonstrate that reduced aggression directly translates into migrant males being inferior when paired with males from nonsulphidic surface habitats. By contrast, the phylogenetically old sulphur-endemic P. sulphuraria from another sulphide spring area showed no overall reduced aggressiveness, possibly indicating evolved mechanisms to better cope with H2S.
Deoxyribonuclease Is a Potential Counter Regulator of Aberrant Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Formation after Major Trauma
Authors: Meng Wei , Paunel-Görgülü Adnana , Flohé Sascha , Witte Ingo , Schädel-Höpfner Michael , Windolf Joachim , Lögters Tim Tobias
Published: January 2012

Introduction. Neutrophil extracellular traps (NET) consist of a DNA scaffold that can be destroyed by Deoxyribonuclease (DNase). Thus DNases are potential prerequisites for natural counter regulation of NETs formation. In the present study, we determined the relationship of NETs and DNase after major trauma.Methods. Thirty-nine major trauma patients, 14 with and 25 without sepsis development were enrolled in this prospective study. Levels of cell-free (cf)-DNA/NETs and DNase were quantified daily from admission until day 9 after admission.Results. Levels of cf-DNA/NETs in patients who developed sepsis were significantly increased after trauma. In the early septic phase, DNase values in septic patients were significantly increased compared to patients without sepsis (P<0.05). cf-DNA/NETs values correlated to values of DNase in all trauma patients and patients with uneventful recovery (P<0.01) but not in septic patients. Recombinant DNase efficiently degraded NETs released by stimulated neutrophils in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro.Conclusions. DNase degrades NETs in a concentration-dependent manner and therefore could have a potential regulatory effect on NET formation in neutrophils. This may inhibit the antibacterial effects of NETs or protect the tissue from autodestruction in inadequate NETs release in septic patients.
Changes in Cytokines of the Bone Microenvironment during Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Sosnoski Donna M. , Krishnan Venkatesh , Kraemer William J. , Dunn-Lewis Courtenay , Mastro Andrea M.
Published: January 2012

It is commonly accepted that cancer cells interact with host cells to create a microenvironment favoring malignant colonization. The complex bone microenvironment produces an ever changing array of cytokines and growth factors. In this study, we examined levels of MCP-1, IL-6, KC, MIP-2, VEGF, MIG, and eotaxin in femurs of athymic nude mice inoculated via intracardiac injection with MDA-MB-231GFPhuman metastatic breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231BRMS1GFP, a metastasis suppressed variant, or PBS. Animals were euthanized (day 3, 11, 19, 27 after injection) to examine femoral cytokine levels at various stages of cancer cell colonization. The epiphysis contained significantly more cytokines than the diaphysis except for MIG which was similar throughout the bone. Variation among femurs was evident within all groups. By day 27, MCP-1, MIG, VEGF and eotaxin levels were significantly greater in femurs of cancer cell-inoculated mice. These pro-osteoclastic and angiogenic cytokines may manipulate the bone microenvironment to enhance cancer cell colonization.
Mesenchymal Stem Cells and Cardiovascular Disease: A Bench to Bedside Roadmap
Authors: Mazo Manuel , Araña Miriam , Pelacho Beatriz , Prosper Felipe
Published: January 2012

In recent years, the incredible boost in stem cell research has kindled the expectations of both patients and physicians. Mesenchymal progenitors, owing to their availability, ease of manipulation, and therapeutic potential, have become one of the most attractive options for the treatment of a wide range of diseases, from cartilage defects to cardiac disorders. Moreover, their immunomodulatory capacity has opened up their allogenic use, consequently broadening the possibilities for their application. In this review, we will focus on their use in the therapy of myocardial infarction, looking at their characteristics,in vitroandin vivomechanisms of action, as well as clinical trials.
Synthesis, Spectroscopic, Anticancer, and Antimicrobial Properties of Some Metal(II) Complexes of (Substituted) Nitrophenol Schiff Base
Authors: Osowole Aderoju A. , Ott Ingo , Ogunlana Oladunni M.
Published: January 2012

The Schiff base, 2-[(2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-4-ylimino)methyl]-5-nitrophenol coordinates to Mn(II), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Pd(II) ions through the phenolic O and imine N atoms. The complexes are characterized by physicochemical and spectroscopic methods. The metal complexes formed as [ML2]xH2O with exception of the Cu(II) complex which is anhydrous. Spectroscopic data corroborate the adoption of a four-coordinate, tetrahedral geometry for the Mn(II), and Zn(II) complexes, and a four-coordinate, square planar geometry for the Cu(II) and Pd(II) complexes. None is an electrolyte in DMSO. The in vitro anticancer activities of the metal free ligand, Cu(II), Zn(II), and Pd(II) complexes against MCF-7 (human breast adenocarcinoma) and HT-29 (colon carcinoma) cells reveal that the Pd(II) complex has the best cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 cells with an IC50 of 5.94 μM, which is within the same order of activity as cisplatin. Furthermore, the ligand and the Zn(II) complex exhibit broad-spectrum activity against two gram-positive bacteria, three gram-negative bacteria, and a fungus with inhibitory zones range of 10.0–20.0 and 10.0–17.0 mm, respectively.