bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A fluorescence histochemical study of ketosteroids in gonadal and adrenal tissue of the rat
Authors: SMITH W. N. ADAMS , STOWARD P. J.
Published: November 2011

SYNOPSIS

Sections of formalin‐fixed gonads from normal rats, and adrenals and ovarian transplants from normal and castrated rats, were treated with salicylhydrazide (after pretreatment with methylhydrazine and sulphobenzaldehyde) and examined for fluorescence before and after mounting in alkali. Sites containing ketosteroids demonstrable in this way are described. Evidence is presented which suggests that luteinized thecal cells of non‐cyclic ovarian transplants may secrete androgens.

Ovarian tissue which has been transplanted to male rats castrated at birth behaves as in the normal female (Pfeiffer, 1936; Yazaki, 1960; Harris, 1963, 1964). Its activity does not appear to depend on the adrenal, and castration of the newborn male rat does not lead to any obvious histological change in the adrenal (Adams Smith, 1966). However, production of androgen has been observed, using biological criteria, in ovaries grafted into the ears of castrated mice (Hill, 1937a, b) and rats (Deanesly, 1938). It therefore seemed worthwhile investigating the ketosteroid content of such tissues histochemically. In this paper the histological distribution of two different types of ketosteroid in gonads of normal rats, in adrenals of normal and castrated male rats and in ovarian transplants in the eyes of male rats (either castrated at birth or at two months of age, or with intact testes) will be described. The ketosteroids were detected histochemically by condensing them with salicylhydrazide (after pretreatment with methylhydrazine and sulphobenzaldehyde) and then observing the fluoresence they emit before and after treatment with alkali (Stoward & Adams Smith, 1964).
A tale of two mRNA degradation pathways mediated by RNase E
Authors: Bouvier Marie , Carpousis Agamemnon J.
Published: November 2011

RNase E is an essential endoribonuclease with a preference for RNA substrates with 5′‐monophosphate ends. Primary transcripts, which have 5′ triphosphate ends, are thus protected from RNase E. Their conversion to 5′‐monophosphate transcripts by RppH is a prerequisite for RNase E‐mediated processing and degradation. 5′‐monophosphate recognition involves binding to a subdomain in the catalytic core of RNase E known as the 5′ sensor. There are, however, transcripts that can be attacked directly by RNase E in a 5′‐end‐independent pathway. Direct entry involves elements outside of the catalytic domain that are located in the carboxyl terminal half (CTH) of RNase E. Strains harbouring rne alleles that express variants of RNase E in which 5′ sensing (rneR169Q) or direct entry (rneΔCTH) are inactivated, are viable. However, the rneR169Q/rneΔCTH and ΔrppH/rneΔCTH combinations are synthetic lethal suggesting that the essential function(s) of RNase E requires at least one of these pathways to be active. A striking result is the demonstration that mutations affecting Rho‐dependent transcription termination can overcome synthetic lethality by a pathway that requires RNase H. It is hypothesized that R‐loop formation and RNase H cleavage substitute for RNase E‐dependent RNA processing and mRNA degradation.
Effects of Salinity and Soil–Drying on Radiation Use Efficiency, Water Productivity and Yield of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.)
Authors: Razzaghi F. , Ahmadi S. H. , Jacobsen S.‐E. , Jensen C. R. , Andersen M. N.
Published: November 2011

Drought and salinity reduce crop productivity especially in arid and semi‐arid regions, and finding a crop which produces yield under these adverse conditions is therefore very important. Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is such a crop. Hence, a study was conducted in field lysimeters to investigate the effect of salinity and soil–drying on radiation use efficiency, yield and water productivity of quinoa. Quinoa was exposed to five salinity levels (0, 10, 20, 30 and 40 dS m−1) of irrigation water from flower initiation onwards. During the seed‐filling phase the five salinity levels were divided between two levels of irrigation, either full irrigation (FI; 95 % of field capacity) or non‐irrigated progressive drought (PD). The intercepted photosynthetically active radiation was hardly affected by salinity (8 % decrease at 40 dS m−1) and did not differ significantly between FI and PD. Radiation use efficiency of dry matter was similar between salinity levels and between FI and PD. In line with this, no negative effect of severe salinity and soil–drying on total dry matter could be detected. Salinity levels between 20 and 40 dS m−1 significantly reduced the seed yield by ca. 33 % compared with 0 dS m−1 treatment owing to a 15–30 % reduction in seed number per m2, whereas the seed yield of PD was 8 % less than FI. Consequently, nitrogen harvested in seed was decreased by salinity although the total N‐uptake was increased. Both salinity and drought increased the water productivity of dry matter. Increasing salinity from 20 to 40 dS m−1 did not further decrease the seed number per m2 and seed yield, which shows that quinoa (cv. Titicaca) acclimated to saline conditions when exposed to salinity levels between 20 and 40 dS m−1.
Exotic species richness and native species endemism increase the impact of exotic species on islands
Authors: Walsh Jessica C. , Venter Oscar , Watson James E. M. , Fuller Richard A. , Blackburn Tim M. , Possingham Hugh P.
Published: November 2011

Aim  Exotic species pose one of the most significant threats to biodiversity, especially on islands. The impacts of exotic species vary in severity among islands, yet little is known about what makes some islands more susceptible than others. Here we determine which characteristics of an island influence how severely exotic species affect its native biota.

Location  We studied 65 islands and archipelagos from around the world, ranging from latitude 65° N to 54° S.

Methods  We compiled a global database of 10 island characteristics for 65 islands and determined the relative importance of each characteristic in predicting the impact of exotic species using multivariate modelling and hierarchical partitioning. We defined the impact of exotic species as the number of bird, amphibian and mammal (BAM) species listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) as threatened by exotics, relative to the total number of BAM species on that island.

Results  We found that the impact of exotic species is more severe on islands with more exotic species and a greater proportion of native species that are endemic. Unexpectedly, the level of anthropogenic disturbance did not influence an island's susceptibility to the impacts of exotic species.

Main conclusions  By coupling our results with studies on the introduction and establishment of exotic species, we conclude that colonization pressure, or invasion opportunities, influences all stages of the invasion process. However, species endemism, the other important factor determining the impact of exotic species, is not known to contribute to introduction and establishment success on islands. This demonstrates that different factors correlate with the initial stages of the invasion process and the subsequent impacts of those invaders, highlighting the importance of studying the impacts of exotic species directly. Our study helps identify islands that are at risk of impact by exotics and where investment should focus on preventing further invasions.
Free Trade in Agriculture and Global Poverty
Authors: Bussolo Maurizio , De Hoyos Rafael , Medvedev Denis
Published: November 2011

This paper assesses the potential impacts of the removal of agriculture trade distortions using a newly developed data set and methodological approach for evaluating the global poverty and inequality effects of policy reforms. It finds that liberalisation of agriculture and food could increase global extreme poverty by 0.2 per cent and lower moderate poverty by 0.3 per cent. Beneath these small aggregate changes, most countries witness a substantial reduction in poverty, while South Asia – where half of the world’s poor reside – experiences an increase in extreme poverty incidence owing to high rates of protection afforded to unskilled‐intensive agricultural sectors. The distributional changes are likely to be mild but exhibit a strong regional pattern. Inequality is likely to fall in regions such as Latin America, which are characterised by high initial inequality, and rise in regions like South Asia, characterised by low initial inequality.
Clonal diversity, population structure, and dispersal in the parthenogenetic moth Ectoedemia argyropeza
Authors: Menken Steph B. J. , Wiebosch‐Steeman Maria
Published: November 2011

Populations of the parthenogenetic moth Ectoedemia argyropeza (Lepidoptera, Nepticulidae) were studied for their clonal composition. Clones were characterized by 6 polymorphic enzyme loci. In a geographic survey 32 clones were observed among 812 individuals. Two clones were predominant, together they explained over 75% of the total variation. Relationships among clones hinted at a monophyletic origin of the species. Analysis of the life cycle and population structure indicated that E. argyropeza is a very sedentary species, with bottlenecks, drift, and passive migration as important population genetical factors moulding the variation.
Eastern Sociological Society Presidential Address: Globalizing Gender Issues: Many Voices, Different Choices1
Authors: Bose Christine E.
Published: November 2011

Why are the important gender inequality issues different in various countries around the world? This question is answered using a comparative perspective on extant research about gender inequalities in the regions of the world. Just as there is diversity among individual women, based on their intersecting axes of age, race, ethnicity, class, marital status, sexual orientation, religion, or other characteristics, I argue that there is diversity across countries in their gender inequalities based on intersecting axes of transnational, regional, cross‐cutting, and unique national issues that structure gendered or feminist concerns within any country. Global and regional dynamics are the interrelated foundations on which broad gender inequalities are built. Major transnational dynamics include neoliberal economics, migration, and violence, while regional patterns include nation building and gendered inequalities in education and property ownership. On the other hand, unique national trajectories and cross‐cutting themes, found in a few nations in each region, add much greater variation to those basic inequalities. Some of those cross‐cutting themes are problems generated by health status and health services, the relationship of religion to the state, and war or militarism.
The New Normal1
Authors: Etzioni Amitai
Published: November 2011

The Great Recession has caused many Americans to reevaluate their consumption‐rich way of life. In response to the shrinking economy, they have spent less, saved more, and simplified their lives. This essay asks whether people will seek a return to their prerecession lifestyles—in particular a return to making the acquisition and consumption of consumer goods a major source of meaning and contentment—as soon as their economic condition allows or whether they will make their more austere lives their “new normal.” It evaluates existing research on contentment and suggests that if instead of choosing to return to their “old normal,” Americans learn to derive satisfaction from nonconsumerist sources, in particular social relations and transcendental activities (i.e., religious, contemplative, and cultural activities), they may find the new normal quite acceptable.
Can the American Dream Survive the New Multiethnic America? Evidence from Los Angeles1
Authors: Cohen‐Marks Mara A. , Stout Christopher
Published: November 2011

Drawing from a survey conducted in Los Angeles, we examine perceptions of achievement and optimism about reaching the American dream among racial, ethnic, and nativity groups. We find blacks and Asian Americans less likely than whites to believe they have reached the American dream. Latinos stand out for their upbeat assessments, with naturalized citizens possessing a stronger sense of achievement and noncitizens generally optimistic that they will eventually fulfill the American dream. We discuss patterns of variation between the racial and ethnic groups as well as variation within each group. Notwithstanding interesting differences along lines of race, ethnicity, and nativity, we find no evidence that the nation’s changing ethnic stew has diluted faith in the American dream.
Evaluation of compressive strength in the first premolars between young and elderly people: ex vivo study
Authors: de Noronha Fernando , Scelza Miriam F.Z. , da Silva Licinio E. , de Carvalho Waldimir R.
Published: November 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00583.x

Evaluation of compressive strength in the first premolars between young and elderly people: ex vivo study

Objective:  This study evaluated the compressive strength of first maxillary premolars from young and elderly people.

Background:  Findings have revealed that changes happening on dental structure lead to a higher susceptibility of tooth fracture.

Materials and methods:  Thirty teeth were divided into four groups as follows: G I (n = 7) premolars of elderly patients with fused roots, G II (n = 8) premolars of elderly with separate roots, G III (n = 7) pre‐molars of young people with fused roots and G IV (n = 8) premolars of young people with roots separated. The roots were placed in polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cylinder and embedded in acrylic resin. Afterward, the samples were subjected to fracture by compressive strength in a universal testing machine. Loads were applied in continuous and progressive speed of 0.5 mm/min until the moment of fracture. The values found underwent statistical analysis (anovaα = 0.05).

Results:  With regard to age, there was a statistical difference, the teeth of the elderly being more susceptible to fracture (p < 0.05). With regard to root morphology, no significant differences between both groups were observed (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:  It was concluded that with the methodology employed, the age factor was important with regard to fracture resistance to compression.
Shear bond strength between Ni‐Cr alloy bonded to a ceramic substrate
Authors: do Nascimento Cássio , Kirsten Miani Paola , Luiz Bezzon Osvaldo , Gonçalves Mariane , Ferreira de Albuquerque Junior Rubens
Published: November 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00585.x

Shear bond strength between Ni‐Cr alloy bonded to a ceramic substrate

Introduction:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the shear bond strength between a Ni‐Cr alloy and a ceramic system submitted or not to thermocycling.

Materials and methods:  Forty‐eight cylinder blocks of Ni‐Cr with 3.0 mm diameter by 4.0 mm hight and 48 disc‐shaped specimens (7.0 mm in diameter by 2.0 mm thick) composed of ceramic were prepared. The Ni‐Cr cylinder blocks were randomised in two groups of 24 specimens each. One group was submitted to air‐particle abrasion (sandblasting) with 50 μm Al2O3 (0.4–0.7 MPa) during 20 s, and the other group was submitted to mechanical retentions with carbide burrs. Each group was subdivided into other two groups (n = 12), submitted or not to thermocycling (500 cycles, 5–55°C). The cylinder blocks were bonded to the disc‐shaped ceramic specimens under 10 N of load. The shear bond strengths (MPa) were measured using a universal testing machine at a cross head speed of 0.5 mm/min and 200 kgf of load. The data were submitted to statistical analysis (anova and Tukey’s test).

Results:  The air‐particle abrasion group exhibited significantly higher shear bond strength when compared to drilled group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Thermocycling decreased significantly the bond strengths for all groups tested.
Knowledge and attitude of elderly persons towards dental implants
Authors: Müller Frauke , Salem Kamel , Barbezat Cindy , Herrmann François R. , Schimmel Martin
Published: November 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00586.x

Knowledge and attitude of elderly persons towards dental implants

Background:  Despite their unrivalled place in restorative treatment, dental implants are still scarcely used in elderly patients.

Introduction:  The aim of this survey was therefore to identify potential barriers for accepting an implant treatment.

Materials and methods:  Participants were recruited from a geriatric hospital, two long‐term‐care facilities and a private clinic. The final study sample comprised 92 persons, 61 women and 31 men with an average age of 81.2 ± 8.0 years. In a semi‐structured interview, the participants’ knowledge of implants and attitude towards a hypothetical treatment with dental implants were evaluated.

Results:  Twenty‐seven participants had never heard of dental implants, and another 13 participants could not describe them. The strongest apprehensions against implants were cost, lack of perceived necessity and old age. Univariate and multiple linear regression analysis identified being women, type and quality of denture, having little knowledge on implants and being hospitalised as the risk factors for refusing implants. However, old age as such was not associated with a negative attitude.

Conclusion:  The acceptance of dental implants in the elderly population might be increased by providing further information and promoting oral health in general. Regardless of the age, dental implants should be placed when patients are still in good health and live independently.
First record of the family Heloridae (Hymenoptera: Proctotrupoidea) from Korea
Authors: CHOI Gang Won , KIM Chang‐Jun , LEE Jong‐Wook
Published: November 2011

As part of an ongoing study of the superfamily Proctotrupoidea, the family Heloridae Förster is recorded for the first time from Korea, based on the two species, Helorus anomalipes (Panzer) and H. ruficornis Förster. A species key to Korean Heloridae, diagnosis and digital images are provided.
Identification of monohydroxylated metabolites of cannabidiol formed by rat liver
Authors: Martin Bill , Nordqvist Marianne , Agurell Stig , Lindgren Jan-Erik , Leander Kurt , Binder Michael
Published: November 2011

Cannabidiol (CBD) was metabolized in vitro by rat liver enzymes. Unchanged CBD and eight monohydroxylated metabolites were isolated and positively identified. As previously reported, 7-hydroxy-CBD was the major metabolite. The second most abundant metabolite was 6α-hydroxy-CBD; whereas only a trace amount of 6β-hydroxy-CBD was found. In addition hydroxylation occurred in all positions of the pentyl side chain, 4″-hydroxy-CBD being most abundant. 3″-Hydroxy-CBD was formed in half of the yield of 4″-hydroxy-CBD, while 1″-, 2″-, and 5″-hydroxy-CBD were each formed in approximately one fourth of the yield of 4″-hydroxy-CBD.
Mediation of prostaglandin E2 in the triphasic response to ATP of the isolated tracheal muscle of guinea-pigs
Authors: Kamikawa Yuichiro , Shimo Yasuo
Published: November 2011

ATP, at a dose higher than 0·1 μg ml−1, showed a biphasic action consisting of an initial increase followed by a gradual decrease of muscle tension in the isolated tracheal strip-chains of guinea-pigs. The pattern of this biphasic response to ATP varied with the level of basal tone of the preparation at the moment of application of ATP. A similar biphasic action was obtained by prostaglandin (PG) E2 among the various active substances studied including acetylcholine, histamine, catecholamines and various types of PG. Indomethacin (0·1 μg ml−1) and aspirin (30 μg ml−1) completely abolished the ATP-induced inhibitory response observed in the presence of histamine (10 μm). Polyphloretin phosphate (100 μg ml−1) also significantly depressed the inhibitory response to ATP or PGE2. It is concluded that the response to ATP of the preparation is mediated by PGE2 released via the stimulation of its biosynthesis.
High-Pressure Angle Gears: Comparison to Typical Gear Designs
Authors: Handschuh Robert F. , Zakrajsek Andrew J.
Published: November 2011

A preliminary study has been completed to determine the feasibility of using high-pressure angle gears in aeronautic and space applications. Tests were conducted in the NASA GRC Spur Gear Test Facility at speeds up to 10,000 rpm and 73 N m (648 in. lb) for 3.18, 2.12, and 1.59 module gears (8, 12, and 16 diametral pitch gears), all designed to operate in the same test facility. The 3.18 module (8-diametral pitch), 28 tooth, 20 deg pressure angle gears are the NASA GRC baseline test specimen. Also, 2.12 module (12-diametral pitch), 42 tooth, 25 deg pressure angle gears were tested. Finally, 1.59 module (16-diametral pitch), 56 tooth, 35 deg pressure angle gears were tested. The high-pressure angle gears were the most efficient when operated in the high-speed aerospace mode (10,000 rpm, lubricated with a synthetic turbine engine oil) and produced the lowest wear rates when tested with a perfluoroether-based grease. The grease tests were conducted at 150 rpm and 71 N m (630 in. lb).
Mechanically Amplified 3-DoF Nonresonant Microelectromechanical Systems Gyroscope Fabricated in Low Cost MetalMUMPs Process
Authors: Shakoor Rana I. , Bazaz Shafaat A. , Saleem M. Mubasher
Published: November 2011

This paper introduces the design implementation of 3-DoF Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) based gyroscope concept, which allows shaping up the dynamic response without using advance control system strategies, with less compromise in performance. The proposed architecture utilizes an active–passive mass configuration in order to achieve the dynamic amplification of the oscillation in 2-DoF drive-mode. A comprehensive theoretical description, dynamics, and mechanical design configuration of the proposed gyroscope design are discussed in detail. A complete test methodology has also been devised for the proposed nonresonant 3-DoF gyroscope. A cost effective commercially available metal-multi user MEMS process is used to fabricate a 20 μm thick nickel based micromachined vibratory gyroscope with an overall chip size of 2.2 mm × 2.6 mm. A good agreement is found between the tested and the simulated results. The experimental characterization demonstrated that the wide bandwidth frequency response of the 2-DoF drive-mode oscillator consists of two resonant peaks at 754 Hz and 2.170 kHz, respectively, with a flat region of 1.4 kHz between the peaks, defining the operational frequency region. The sense-mode resonant frequency lies within this region at 1.868 kHz allowing the amplitude of the response to be insensitive to structural parameter and damping variations, with improved robustness against such variations. The passive mass achieved a dynamic amplification of three times at first resonant peak of 754 Hz and five times at the second resonant peak of 2.170 kHz in comparison with the active mass, resulting in improved sensitivity in response to the Coriolis torque induced due to rotation.
Fractal-Inspired Multifrequency Structures for Piezoelectric Harvesting of Ambient Kinetic Energy
Authors: Castagnetti D.
Published: November 2011

Energy harvesting devices capable of converting freely-available ambient energy into electrical energy have received significant attention recently. Ambient kinetic energy is particularly attractive for conversion since it is almost ubiquitous and easily accessible. Piezoelectric energy harvesting devices are promising due to their simple configuration and high conversion efficiency. This paper studies multifrequency structures for piezoelectric energy harvesting of ambient kinetic energy, inspired by fractal geometry. Identifying such structures that are simple and efficient is challenging. We propose four fractal-inspired structures and we examine them at both micro and macroscales. We calculate their frequency response up to 100 Hz with computational modeling, and we also examine the effect of the fractal geometry iteration level. We use a cantilever plate example as a reference to validate computational results against analytical ones. A quantitative criterion to assess the harvesting efficiency of the proposed structures is introduced using the bending strain associated with each mode shape. Results show that a large number of eigenfrequencies is obtained, evenly distributed below 100 Hz, particularly in the macroscale. In addition, the iteration level of the fractal geometry affects the number and distribution of eigenfrequencies in the range of interest. Comparison with a conventional batch of cantilevers of the same size as the proposed structures shows noticeable improvement in electric charge generation.
Contact Characteristics of Recess Action Worm Gear Drives With Double-Depth Teeth
Authors: Chen Wei-Liang , Tsay Chung-Biau
Published: November 2011

Based on the previously developed mathematical model of a series of recess action (RA) worm gear drive (i.e., semi RA, full RA, and standard proportional tooth types) with double-depth teeth, the tooth contact analysis (TCA) technique is utilized to investigate the kinematic error (KE), contact ratio (CR), average contact ratio (ACR), instantaneous contact teeth (ICT) under different assembly conditions. Besides, the bearing contact and contact ellipse are studied by applying the surface topology method. Three numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the influence of the assembly errors and design parameters of the RA worm gear drive on the KE, CR, ACR, ICT, and contact patterns.
The Beginning of therpoBGene in Addition to the Rifampin Resistance Determination Region Might Be Needed for Identifying Rifampin/Rifabutin Cross-Resistance in Multidrug-Resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis Isolates from Southern China
Authors: Tan Yaoju , Hu Zuqiong , Zhao Yanlin , Cai Xingshan , Luo Chunming , Zou Cairong , Liu Xin
Published: November 2011

We aimed to study the distribution and contribution of mutations in therpoBwhole gene in rifampin-resistant/rifabutin-resistant (RIFr/Rfbr) (or RIF/Rfb cross-resistant) clinicalMycobacterium tuberculosisisolates. One standardM. tuberculosisstrain (H37Rv) and 392 other clinicalM. tuberculosisisolates mainly from Guangdong Province of China whose susceptibilities to rifampin (RIF), rifabutin (Rfb), streptomycin (SM), ethambutol (EMB), and isoniazid (INH) were previously determined were subjected to DNA sequencing of theirrpoBwhole genes. H37Rv and the 30 drug-susceptible clinical isolates had no mutations inrpoBwhole genes. In 43 rifampin-resistant/rifabutin-susceptible (RIFr/Rfbs) isolates, the most frequent mutation codons were 516 (62.80%), 526 (14.0%), and 533 (6.98%), but codon 531 had no mutation. Twenty-one of the 43 isolates (48.84%) had single mutations of H526L, H526S, D516V, D516Y, and D516F. In 319 RIFr/Rfbrisolates, the most frequent mutation codons were 531 (73.7%) and 526 (18.8%); the mutation frequency for codon 516 was 2.5%, and that for codon 533 was only 0.31%. A total of 82.8% (264/319) of them had single mutations of S531L, S531W, H526D, H526Y, H526R, Q513K, Q513P, Q510H, V176F, P206TR, Y314TC, and H323TY (the superscript T indicatesM. tuberculosisnumbering; the remaining codons use theE. colinumbering), among which V176F, P206TR, Y314TC, and H323TY were located in the beginning ofrpoB, and all of them were present in 1.9% (6/319) of RIFr/Rfbrisolates. The multiple mutations in RIFr/Rfbrisolates and in RIFr/Rfbsisolates were also different from each other either in mutation positions or in types of mutation combinations. In conclusion, the mutations ofrpoBin RIF-R/Rfbsand in RIF-R/Rfb-R isolates differ significantly from each other not only in the most frequent mutation codons (516, 531, and 533) but also in the most frequent single mutations (S531L, H526L, D516V, D516Y, and D516F), and the beginning ofrpoBmay confer a RIF/Rfb cross-resistance phenotype inM. tuberculosis. Molecular assays for identifying RIF/Rfb cross-resistance inM. tuberculosismight be improved in terms of accuracy by including this region, in addition to the rifampin resistance determination region.
Necrotizing Fasciitis and Septic Shock Related to the Uncommon Gram-Negative Pathogen Sphingobacterium multivorum
Authors: Grimaldi D. , Doloy A. , Fichet J. , Bourgeois E. , Zuber B. , Wajsfisz A , Mira J. P. , Poyart C. , Pène F.
Published: November 2011

We report the first case of necrotizing fasciitis due to the uncommon Gram-negative pathogen
Sphingobacterium multivorum
in an immunocompromised patient, who presented with septic shock. This case adds necrotizing fasciitis to the spectrum of
S. multivorum
-related infections and highlights the emergence of Gram-negative bacteria in severe soft tissue infections.
Evaluation of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Multiple-Locus Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Analysis, N. gonorrhoeae Multiantigen Sequence Typing, and Full-Length
porB
Gene Sequence Analysis for Molecular Epidemiological Typing
Authors: Heymans Raymond , Golparian Daniel , Bruisten Sylvia M. , Schouls Leo M. , Unemo Magnus
Published: November 2011

The performance characteristics of
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
multilocus variable-number tandem-repeat analysis were evaluated, by comparison with
N. gonorrhoeae
multiantigen sequence typing and full-length
porB
sequence typing. Assessment of the relatedness of intra- and interpatient isolates showed that all three genotyping techniques display a high resolution and typeability.
A Longitudinal Case Series Description of Meningitis Due to Streptococcus gallolyticus subsp. pasteurianus in Infants
Authors: Klatte J. Michael , Clarridge Jill E. , Bratcher Denise , Selvarangan Rangaraj
Published: November 2011

Streptococcus gallolyticus
subsp.
pasteurianus
, previously known as
Streptococcus bovis
biotype II.2, is known to cause multiple infectious complications, including bacterial meningitis, in adults. Only sporadic individual case reports have identified this pathogen as a cause of meningitis in infants. This study is the first to longitudinally document
S. gallolyticus
subsp.
pasteurianus
as a cause of meningitis in four epidemiologically unrelated infants less than 2 weeks of age. The 16S rRNA gene sequences of all 4 isolates were identical, and further were identical to 3 central nervous system (CNS) strains (two adults and one child) reported in existing literature.
S. gallolyticus
subsp.
pasteurianus
is an increasingly recognized cause of meningitis and bacteremia in the newborn period, and it merits further study with respect to etiology of infection.
Pathology of primary and metastatic mucinous ovarian neoplasms
Authors: Leen Sarah Lam Shang , Singh Naveena
Published: November 2011

Recent years have seen a dramatic change in the pathological approach to ovarian mucinous neoplasms. A substantial proportion of tumours previously considered to be ovarian primaries actually represent secondary ovarian involvement by tumours elsewhere in the body. Two major categories of tumour have completely disappeared from the diagnostic spectrum: ovarian ‘borderline’ mucinous tumour associated with pseudomyxoma peritonei, and widely disseminated mucinous carcinomas. The emergent picture of true ovarian primary carcinoma of pure mucinous morphology is that this is a rare malignancy that is low grade and low stage at presentation in the vast majority of cases, with a very low likelihood of aggressive clinical behaviour. A large volume of literature has appeared concerning the pathological distinction of primary from metastatic ovarian mucinous neoplasms in view of the dramatically different prognosis and treacherously similar morphology. Clinicopathological parameters useful in the distinction of primary from metastatic mucinous ovarian carcinomas are reviewed. Major features favouring metastases are bilaterality, size <10 cm, surface involvement, extensive intra-abdominal spread and an extensive infiltrative pattern with desmoplasia. Two morphological patterns essentially exclude ovarian origin: colloid and signet ring carcinomas. Features favouring primary ovarian origin are unilaterality, large size >12 cm, smooth external surface and association with other ovarian pathology. An admixture of benign, borderline and malignant patterns in the same tumour favour primary origin, but can be misleading as a ‘maturation’ pattern in metastases can result in the same appearance.
EVOLUTION OF THE DENSITY PARAMETER IN THE ANISOTROPIC DGP COSMOLOGY
Authors: ANSARI RIZWAN UL HAQ , SURESH P. K.
Published: November 2011

Evolution of the density parameter in the anisotropic DGP braneworld model is studied. The role of shear and cross-over scale in the evolution of Ωρ is examined for both the branches of solution in the DGP model. The evolution is modified significantly compared to the FRW model and further it does not depend on the value of γ alone. Behavior of the cosmological density parameter Ωρ is unaltered in the late universe. The study of decceleration parameter shows that the entry of the universe into self-accelerating phase is determined by the value of shear. We also obtain an estimate of the shear parameter [Formula: see text], which is in agreement with the constraints obtained in the literature using data.
Chemoarchitecture of Layer 4 Isocortex in the American Water Shrew (Sorex palustris)
Authors: Leitch Duncan B. , Gauthier Danielle , Sarko Diana K. , Catania Kenneth C.
Published: November 2011

We examined the chemoarchitecture of layer 4 isocortex and the number of myelinated nerve fibers of selected cranial nerves in the American water shrew (Sorex palustris). This study took advantage of the opportunity to examine juvenile brain tissue, which often reveals the most distinctive cortical modules related to different sensory representations. Flattened cortical sections were processed for the metabolic enzyme cytochrome oxidase, revealing a number of modules and septa. Subdivisions related to sensory representations were tentatively identified by performing microelectrode recordings in a single adult shrew in this study, combined with microelectrode recordings and anatomical findings from a previous investigation. Taken together, these results suggest that characteristic chemoarchitectonic borders in the shrew neocortex can be used to delineate and quantify cortical areas. The most obvious subdivisions in the water shrew include a relatively small primary visual cortex which responded to visual stimuli, a larger representation of vibrissae in the primary somatosensory cortex, and a prominent representation of oral structures apparent in the more rostral-lateral cortex. A presumptive auditory area was located in the far caudal cortex. These findings for the cortex are consistent with counts from optic, auditory and trigeminal nerves, suggesting that somatosensory inputs dominate the shrew’s senses whereas visual and auditory inputs play a small role in navigation and in finding prey. More generally, we find that shrews share unusual features of cortical organization with moles, supporting their close taxonomic relationship.
Economic Burden in a German Cohort of Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Reese Jens Peter , John Axel , Wienemann Gabriele , Wellek Anne , Sommer Norbert , Tackenberg Björn , Balzer-Geldsetzer Monika , Dodel Richard
Published: November 2011

Aims: To estimate costs of multiple sclerosis (MS) in a German cohort according to severity of the disease and clinical symptoms. Methods: 144 patients were recruited from an MS outpatient clinic. Costs were calculated according to current German health-economic guidelines from the perspective of the social health insurance system. Patients were either interviewed or completed a questionnaire. Cost assessment covered a 3-month period. Health outcomes were: Expanded Disability Status Scale, MS Functional Composite, Functional Assessment of MS, fatigue, depression (Beck Depression Inventory II) and patients’ socioeconomic status. Multivariate linear regression identified independent cost predictors. Results: Total quarterly costs per patient were EUR 10,329 (95% CI 9,357–11,390). Direct costs were EUR 5,344 for the social health insurance system and EUR 140 for the patient. Drugs represented the major share of direct costs (and 35% of total costs); indirect costs accounted for 47% of total costs. Univariate and multivariate analyses identified age, disability, fatigue and depression as independent predictors for total, indirect or drug costs. Conclusion: MS represents a high economic burden, with direct costs exceeding indirect costs. To reduce costs, research should focus on prevention that slows down progression of MS. Rehabilitation and symptomatic treatment may have merits in decreasing indirect costs.
Immunoadsorption Therapy for Steroid-Unresponsive Relapses in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Trebst Corinna , Bronzlik Paul , Kielstein Jan T. , Schmidt Bernhard M.W. , Stangel Martin
Published: November 2011

Background: Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in steroid-unresponsive relapses of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is an established therapy with response rates of up to 70%. Immunoadsorption (IA) specifically removes immunoglobulins from the patient’s plasma. It is hypothesized that IA therapy might be better tolerated than and as effective as TPE in the treatment of MS relapses. Experiences with IA therapy of steroid-unresponsive MS relapses are limited. Methods: We report our experiences with IA therapy in a series of 10 patients with steroid-unresponsive MS relapses. Results: A marked to moderate clinical response with clear gain of function was observed in 66% of our patients. IA therapy was well tolerated. Conclusions: IA therapy is an effective and well-tolerated therapeutic option for steroid-unresponsive MS relapses.
A Comparison of Approaches to Control for Confounding Factors by Regression Models
Authors: Xing Guan , Lin Chang-Yun , Xing Chao
Published: November 2011

A common technique to control for confounding factors in practice is by regression adjustment. There are various versions of regression modeling in the literature, and in this paper we considered four approaches often seen in genetic association studies. We carried out both analytical and simulation studies comparing the bias of effect size estimates and examining the test sizes under the null hypothesis of no association between an outcome and an exposure. Further, we compared the methods in a nonsynonymous genome-wide scan for plasma lipoprotein(a) levels using a dataset from the Dallas Heart Study. We found that a widely employed approach that models the covariate-adjusted outcome and the exposure leads to an infranominal test size and underestimation of the exposure effect size. In conclusion, we recommend either using multiple regression models or modeling the covariate-adjusted outcome and the covariate-adjusted exposure to control for confounding factors.
Implications of a Reduction in the Hemoglobin Target in Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agent-Treated Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Nguyen Timothy V. , Goldfarb David S.
Published: November 2011

Background: Patients treated with erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) to a hemoglobin (Hb) level >12.0 g/dl have increased risk of multiple complications, including death. The optimal Hb target for ESA use has not been established. We hypothesized that reducing the target Hb would prevent levels >12 g/dl and lead to significant cost savings. Methods: Our target Hb range was reduced to 9–11 g/dl from 10–12 g/dl. Thirty-five chronic hemodialysis (HD) patients received erythropoietin (EPO) and intravenous iron from January to December 2009. Data analysis included: Hb level, EPO dose, transferrin saturation and ferritin levels. EPO was administered via subcutaneous injection weekly or twice weekly. Results: The mean monthly Hb level changed from 11.2 to 10.6 g/dl. The percentages of patients with mean Hb >10.0, 12.0 and 13.0 g/dl were 82 ± 6.5, 10 ± 5.6 and 1.8 ± 1.9%, respectively. Weekly EPO dose decreased from 9,500 to 5,600 units, a 40% reduction per dose per patient and costs. The savings exceeded USD 60,000 per year for 35 patients. More than 80% of patients had transferrin saturation >20% and ferritin >200 ng/ml throughout the entire period. Conclusions: Lowering the target Hb range to 9–11 g/dl in HD patients achieved quality anemia management, avoided values >12.0 g/dl and resulted in cost savings. A minimal reduction in quality of life and no change in cardiovascular morbidity or mortality would be expected. The study has important implications in the new American bundled reimbursement model.
The Combined Effect of Tidally and Eddy-Driven Diapycnal Mixing on the Large-Scale Ocean Circulation
Authors: Saenko Oleg A. , Zhai Xiaoming , Merryfield William J. , Lee Warren G.
Published: November 2011

Several recent studies have shown that ocean western boundaries are the primary regions of eddy energy dissipation. Globally, the eddy energy sinks have been estimated to integrate to about 0.2 TW. This is a sizable fraction of the tidal energy dissipation in the deep oceanic interior, estimated at about 1.0 TW and contributing to diapycnal mixing. The authors conduct sensitivity experiments with an ocean general circulation model assuming that the eddy energy is scattered into high-wavenumber vertical modes, resulting in energy dissipation and locally enhanced diapycnal mixing. When only the tidal energy dissipation maintains diapycnal mixing, the overturning circulation, and stratification in the deep ocean are too weak. With the addition of the eddy dissipation, the deep-ocean thermal structure becomes closer to that observed and the overturning circulation and stratification in the abyss become stronger. Furthermore, the mixing associated with the eddy dissipation can, on its own, drive a relatively strong overturning. The stratification and overturning in the deep ocean are sensitive to the vertical structure of diapycnal mixing. When most of this energy dissipates within 300 m above the bottom, the abyssal overturning and stratification are too weak. Allowing for the dissipation to penetrate higher in the water column, such as suggested by recent observations, results in stronger stratification and meridional circulation. Zonal circulation is also affected. In particular, the Drake Passage transport becomes closer to its observational estimates with the increase in the vertical scale for turbulence above topography. Consistent with some theoretical models, the Drake Passage transport increases with the increase in the mean upper-ocean diffusivity.
MicroRNA regulation of STAT4 protein expression: rapid and sensitive modulation of IL-12 signaling in human natural killer cells
Authors: Huang Yong , Lei YingFeng , Zhang Hai , Hou LiChao , Zhang Mingjie , Dayton Andrew I.
Published: November 2011

IL-12 exerts several regulatory effects on natural killer (NK) cells by activating IL-12 signaling. IL-12 signaling is tightly auto-regulated to control its onset and termination, with prolonged IL-12 treatment resulting in IL-12 hyporesponsiveness. However, the mechanisms underlying IL-12 auto-regulation are still unclear. In this study we report that prolonged IL-12 treatment significantly up-regulates microRNAs (miRNAs), including miR-132, -212, and -200a in primary human NK cells. This up-regulation correlates temporally with gradually decreasing STAT4 levels and decreasing IFN-γ expression, after an initial increase within the first 16 hours of IL-12 treatment. The IL-12 hyporesponsiveness is dependent on IL-12 concentration, and associated up-regulation of miR-132, -212, and -200a. Furthermore, IL-12–hyporesponsive cells regain responsiveness of IFN-γ production 24 hours after IL-12 removal, which correlates with decreases in miR-132, -212, and -200a levels. Overexpression of miR-132, -212, and -200a by transfection into NK cells mimics IL-12 priming, inducing IL-12 hyporesponsiveness, whereas transfection of miR-132, -212, and -200a inhibitors largely abolishes IL-12 induction of IL-12 hyporesponsiveness. These data suggest that miR-132, -212, and -200a up-regulation during prolonged IL-12 treatment, negatively regulates the IL-12 signaling pathway by reducing STAT4 expression in primary human NK cells.
Delta neutrophil index as an early marker of disease severity in critically ill patients with sepsis
Authors: Park Byung Hoon , Kang Young Ae , Park Moo Suk , Jung Won Jai , Lee Su Hwan , Lee Sang Kook , Kim Song Yee , Kim Se Kyu , Chang Joon , Jung Ji Ye , Kim Young Sam
Published: November 2011

Background

The immature granulocyte count has been reported to be a marker of infection and sepsis. The difference in leukocyte subfractions (delta neutrophil index, DNI) in ADVIA 2120 reflects the fraction of circulating immature granulocytes in the blood. This study evaluated the clinical utility of DNI as a severity and prediction marker in critically ill patients with sepsis.

Methods

One hundred and three patients admitted to the medical intensive care unit with sepsis were studied. DNI (the difference in leukocyte subfractions identified by myeloperoxidase and nuclear lobularity channels) was determined using a specific blood cell analyzer.

Results

Forty four patients (42.7%) were diagnosed with severe sepsis/septic shock. Overt disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) occurred in 40 (38.8%). DNI was significantly higher in patients with severe sepsis/septic shock and overt DIC than in patients without (p < 0.05). DNI correlated with DIC score (r = 0.54, p < 0.001). We observed a monotonic increase in the proportion of overt DIC and severe sepsis/septic shock associated with increasing quartiles of DNI (p < 0.001). A DNI value > 6.5% was a better indicator of severe sepsis/septic shock than C-reactive protein, lactate, white blood cell count, and absolute neutrophil count (sensitivity, 81.3%; specificity, 91.0%; positive predictive value, 88.6%; and negative predictive value, 84.7%). In 36 (82%) of the 44 patients with severe sepsis/septic shock, DNI values were already elevated up to 12 hours before the onset of organ/circulatory failure.

Conclusions

DNI may be used as a marker of disease severity in critically ill patients with sepsis. High levels of DNI may help to identify patients with an impending risk of developing severe sepsis/septic shock.