bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conversion method of powder inelastic scattering data for one-dimensional systems
Authors: Tomiyasu K. , Fujita M. , Kolesnikov A. I. , Bewley R. I. , Bull M. J. , Bennington S. M.
Published: March 2009

Extracting dispersive magnetic excitations from inelastic neutron scattering data usually requires large single crystals. We present a simple yet powerful method for extracting such information from polycrystalline or powder data for one-dimensional systems. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this data treatment by extracting dispersion curves from powder inelastic neutron scattering data on the one-dimensional spin-half systems: CuGeO3 and Rb2Cu2Mo3O12. For many such materials, it is not possible to grow sufficiently large crystals and this method offers a quick and efficient way to study their magnetic excitations.
Stability diagrams of laterally coupled triple vertical quantum dots in triangular arrangement
Authors: Amaha S. , Hatano T. , Kubo T. , Teraoka S. , Tokura Y. , Tarucha S. , Austing D. G.
Published: March 2009

We investigate three vertical quantum dots (QDs) laterally coupled in a triangular arrangement forming a triple QD (tQD) with common source and drain electrodes. The three equidistant dot mesas each have one gate electrode allowing control of the electrochemical potential in each QD. From the stability diagrams observed by measuring current through the tQD on sweeping the voltages on two of the gate electrodes for different values of voltage on the third gate electrode, we build up part of the three-dimensional stability diagram. Our device can be useful to reveal the consequences of interdot coupling on electronic states in tQDs.
Interaction of oxygen with thermally induced vacancies in Czochralski silicon
Authors: Akhmetov V. , Kissinger G. , von Ammon W.
Published: March 2009

Complexes consisting of a vacancy and four oxygen atoms, VO4, were found in oxygen-rich Czochralski silicon wafers subjected to rapid thermal annealing (RTA) at 1250 °C for 30 s in Ar/O2 atmosphere by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with enhanced sensitivity. An absorption band at 985 cm−1, previously observed only in irradiated Si and assigned to a local vibration mode of VO4, was measured reproducibly in all RTA treated wafers examined. A concentration of about 1.4×1013 cm−3 of thermally induced VO4 was estimated from the integrated intensity of the band at 985 cm−1 using the known calibration factor for interstitial oxygen.
Visible light photocatalytic activity in nitrogen-doped TiO2 nanobelts
Authors: Tafen De Nyago , Wang Jin , Wu Nianqiang , Lewis James P.
Published: March 2009

We present a comprehensive experimental and theoretical study of the electronic properties and photocatalytic activity of nitrogen-doped anatase TiO2 nanobelts. UV-visible spectra show enhanced absorption in the visible light range for nitrogen-doped nanobelts compared to the pristine sample. The nitrogen-doped nanobelts exhibit improved photocatalytic activity compared to the pristine sample upon visible light irradiation. Furthermore, the incorporation of nitrogen introduces localized states in the band gap.
Microsatellite detection of donor-derived sperm DNA following germ cell transplantation in cattle
Authors: Stockwell Sally , Herrid Muren , Davey Rhonda , Brownlee Alan , Hutton Keryn , Hill Jonathan R.
Published: March 2009

Although autologous and heterologous transplantation has resulted in colonisation of recipient testes in cattle, the ability of the transplanted spermatogonial stem cells to complete spermatogenesis has not yet been determined. The objective of the present study was to identify and validate microsatellite markers that can distinguish the genotype of different individuals and therefore can be used to detect the presence of donor DNA in recipient semen samples. In a previous study by this group, successful colonisation of recipient testes by heterologous transfer using a fluorescent dye was shown. In the present work, some of the same recipient animals were investigated further to monitor donor-derived sperm production. The bovine microsatellite detection method was developed specifically to test the ejaculates of the recipients and can also be used to pre-match individuals before germ cell transplantation. Semen was collected from the recipients 52–98 weeks after transfer and the presence of donor DNA in the samples was determined using microsatellite markers. In one of the recipients, all collected semen samples were shown to be positive for donor-derived cells; however, the percentage of donor spermatozoa in the recipient ejaculate declined with time. The donor DNA was also detected in both single cell suspensions and testis tissue from this recipient. These results demonstrate for the first time that testicular germ cell transplantation between different breeds of cattle is feasible and the recipients thereof are able to produce spermatozoa of donor origin. This technology has potential applications in livestock breeding systems and may provide an alternative to artificial insemination.
Efalizumab binding to the LFA-1 αLI domain blocks ICAM-1 binding via steric hindrance
Authors: Li Sheng , Wang Hao , Peng Baozhen , Zhang Meilan , Zhang Daipong , Hou Sheng , Guo Yajun , Ding Jianping
Published: March 2009

Lymphocyte function-associated antigen 1 (LFA-1) plays important roles in immune cell adhesion, trafficking, and activation and is a therapeutic target for the treatment of multiple autoimmune diseases. Efalizumab is one of the most efficacious antibody drugs for treating psoriasis, a very common skin disease, through inhibition of the binding of LFA-1 to the ligand intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). We report here the crystal structures of the Efalizumab Fab alone and in complex with the LFA-1 αLI domain, which reveal the molecular mechanism of inhibition of LFA-1 by Efalizumab. The Fab binds with an epitope on the inserted (I) domain that is distinct from the ligand-binding site. Efalizumab binding blocks the binding of LFA-1 to ICAM-1 via steric hindrance between its light chain and ICAM-1 domain 2 and thus inhibits the activities of LFA-1. These results have important implications for the development of improved antibodies and new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Identification of two distinct inactive conformations of the β
2
-adrenergic receptor reconciles structural and biochemical observations
Authors: Dror Ron O. , Arlow Daniel H. , Borhani David W. , Jensen Morten Ø. , Piana Stefano , Shaw David E.
Published: March 2009

Fully understanding the mechanisms of signaling proteins such as G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) will require the characterization of their conformational states and the pathways connecting those states. The recent crystal structures of the β
2
- and β
1
-adrenergic receptors in a nominally inactive state constituted a major advance toward this goal, but also raised new questions. Although earlier biochemical observations had suggested that these receptors possessed a set of contacts between helices 3 and 6, known as the ionic lock, which was believed to form a molecular switch for receptor activation, the crystal structures lacked these contacts. The unexpectedly broken ionic lock has raised questions about the true conformation(s) of the inactive state and the role of the ionic lock in receptor activation and signaling. To address these questions, we performed microsecond-timescale molecular dynamics simulations of the β
2
-adrenergic receptor (β
2
AR) in multiple wild-type and mutant forms. In wild-type simulations, the ionic lock formed reproducibly, bringing the intracellular ends of helices 3 and 6 together to adopt a conformation similar to that found in inactive rhodopsin. Our results suggest that inactive β
2
AR exists in equilibrium between conformations with the lock formed and the lock broken, whether or not the cocrystallized ligand is present. These findings, along with the formation of several secondary structural elements in the β
2
AR loops during our simulations, may provide a more comprehensive picture of the inactive state of the β-adrenergic receptors, reconciling the crystal structures with biochemical studies.
Faciogenital Dysplasia Protein (FGD1) Regulates Export of Cargo Proteins from the Golgi Complex via Cdc42 Activation
Authors: Egorov Mikhail V. , Capestrano Mariagrazia , Vorontsova Olesya A. , Di Pentima Alessio , Egorova Anastasia V. , Mariggiò Stefania , Ayala M. Inmaculada , Tetè Stefano , Gorski Jerome L. , Luini Alberto , Buccione Roberto , Polishchuk Roman S.
Published: March 2009

Mutations in the FGD1 gene are responsible for the X-linked disorder known as faciogenital dysplasia (FGDY). FGD1 encodes a guanine nucleotide exchange factor that specifically activates the GTPase Cdc42. In turn, Cdc42 is an important regulator of membrane trafficking, although little is known about FGD1 involvement in this process. During development, FGD1 is highly expressed during bone growth and mineralization, and therefore a lack of the functional protein leads to a severe phenotype. Whether the secretion of proteins, which is a process essential for bone formation, is altered by mutations in FGD1 is of great interest. We initially show here that FGD1 is preferentially associated with the trans-Golgi network (TGN), suggesting its involvement in export of proteins from the Golgi. Indeed, expression of a dominant-negative FGD1 mutant and RNA interference of FGD1 both resulted in a reduction in post-Golgi transport of various cargoes (including bone-specific proteins in osteoblasts). Live-cell imaging reveals that formation of post-Golgi transport intermediates directed to the cell surface is inhibited in FGD1-deficient cells, apparently due to an impairment of TGN membrane extension along microtubules. These effects depend on FGD1 regulation of Cdc42 activation and its association with the Golgi membranes, and they may contribute to FGDY pathogenesis.
Improved Survival after Resuscitation with Norepinephrine in a Murine Model of Uncontrolled Hemorrhagic Shock
Authors: Poloujadoff Marie-Pierre , Borron Stephen W. , Amathieu Roland , Favret Fabrice , Camara Mamadou S. , Lapostolle Frédéric , Vicaut Eric , Adnet Frédéric
Published: March 2009

Background

Recent studies have challenged current guidelines on fluid resuscitation. However, studies on resuscitation using norepinephrine in uncontrolled hemorrhagic shock are lacking. The authors examined the effects of norepinephrine in combination with saline infusion in uncontrolled hemorrhage in rats.

Methods

Rats subjected to a 15-min controlled hemorrhage (withdrawal of 3 ml blood/100 g body mass) followed by a 60-min uncontrolled hemorrhage (75% tail amputation) were randomly assigned to one of several treatment groups (10 rats/group) receiving different doses of norepinephrine (0 [NE0], 5 [NE5], 50 [NE50], or 500 [NE500] microg.100 g(-1).h(-1)). In the four hypotensive resuscitation groups (n = 40), mean arterial pressure was not allowed to fall below 40 mmHg by titrated infusion of normal saline. In the four normotensive resuscitation groups (n = 40), it was not allowed to fall below 80 mmHg. The endpoint was survival at 210 min.

Results

There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in survival rate among groups. Among the hypotensive rats, 6 (60%) survived in the NE0 and NE5 dose groups, 9 (90%) survived in the NE50 dose group, and none survived in the NE500 dose group. Among the normotensive rats, none survived in the NE0 group, 4 (40%) survived in the NE5 dose group, all 10 (100%) survived in the NE50 group, and none survived in the NE500 group.

Conclusions

The early use of norepinephrine in uncontrolled hemorrhagic shock in rats significantly improved survival when infused at a rate of 50 microg.100 g(-1).h(-1) in normotensive and hypotensive resuscitation strategies.
Management of a Right Aberrant Subclavian Artery during Complex Hybrid Stent-Graft Procedures: A Rare and Complex Issue
Authors: Mohammadi Siamak , Normand Jean-Pierre , Turcotte Roch , Voisine Pierre , Mathieu Patrick , Dagenais François
Published: March 2009

A 76-year-old man with an ascending arch and proximal descending aortic aneurysm underwent a complex aortic replacement through a sternotomy with ligation of a right aberrant subclavian artery (RASA) distal to the right vertebral artery. The second-stage procedure was performed with a stent-graft deployed within the elephant trunk. At 6- and 12-month follow-up, the RASA was opacified by the patent right vertebral artery. Under ultrasound guidance, the patient's RASA stump was occluded by coils. Management of an RASA during complex hybrid stent-graft procedures is discussed.
Percutaneous Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Quaden René , Attmann Tim , Klaws Günther-Rudolf , Schünke Michael , Theisen-Kunde Dirk , Lozonschi Lucian , Cremer Jochen , Lutter Georg
Published: March 2009

Objective

To improve the outcome of percutaneous valve replacement in aortic stenosis endovascular resection of calcified aortic valves will be necessary. In this study different sealing methods were evaluated. The focus of this research was feasibility and mechanical functionality in human anatomy.

Methods

The aortic valve isolation chamber (AVIC) is a catheter-based system to seal the aortic valve during resection, and was installed antegrade and retrograde. Firstly, AVIC was inserted antegrade via the cardiac apex in human postmortem models (n = 2), and secondly in porcine in vivo models under extra corporeal circulation (n = 5). Endoscopic inspection of the valve was recorded. AVIC was installed via a port system through the descending aorta. Micro- and macropathologies were performed.

Results

AVIC transapical deployment in the two human models took 3 and 4 minutes respectively and 2.2 ± 1.3 minutes in average in the porcine model. From the descending aorta, the deployment took 9.3 ± 5.5 minutes. Fluoroscopy and macroscopy demonstrated sealed chambers. Microscopic and histologic analysis demonstrated no profound damages of the surrounding tissue.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the feasibility of transapical and retrograde endovascular sealing of the aortic valve in vitro and in vivo in nonbeating hearts.
Rising Incidence of Oropharyngeal Cancer and the Role of Oncogenic Human Papilloma Virus
Authors: Ernster Joel A. , Sciotto Cosimo G. , O'Brien Maureen M. , Finch Jack L. , Robinson Linda J. , Willson Thomas , Mathews Michael
Published: March 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis: To document the increasing incidence of oropharyngeal (OP) cancer and to provide evidence that this increase is caused by oncogenic human papilloma virus (HPV).

Study Design: Epidemiologic review and retrospective case series analysis.

Methods: We collected data from Colorado and the United States comparing the average annual age‐adjusted incidence rates of OP and non‐OP head and neck cancer between the periods 1980 to 1990 and 1991 to 2001. We obtained data on 72 patients with OP cancer from a single county in Colorado, from 1980 through 2004. HPV status was determined by DNA‐polymerase chain reaction. We assessed disease‐specific survival.

Results: The average annual age‐adjusted incidence of OP cancer in males in Colorado increased from 2.54 per 100,000 to 3.47 (P < .05) or 36.6%, whereas the U.S. rate increased from 4.34 to 4.81 (P < .05) or 10.8%. The rates in females and the rates of non‐OP head and neck cancer decreased. Of the 72 cases, 50 (69%) were positive for HPV subtype 16. The ratio of HPV‐positive to HPV‐negative cases prior to 1995 was 0.72 (8:11) but was 3.81 (42:11) afterward. Survival was positively affected by HPV status (hazard ratio of 0.15, confidence intervals 0.07–0.36, P < .001). Disease‐specific survival was 83% in the HPV‐positive patients and 15% in the HPV‐negative group.

Conclusions: OP cancer incidence is increasing in Colorado males and to a lesser extent in U.S. males. The HPV‐positive OP cancer cases were more frequent in the later years of the study. Disease‐specific survival was much better in the HPV‐positive patients, confirming that HPV testing defines a unique subset of patients. These findings suggest that HPV oncogenesis accounts for the increase in average annual age‐adjusted incidence of OP cancer.
Deferring Planned Neck Dissection Following Chemoradiation for Stage IV Head and Neck Cancer: The Utility of PET‐CT
Authors: Nayak Jayakar V. , Walvekar Rohan R. , Andrade Regiane S. , Daamen Nicole , Lai Stephen Y. , Argiris Athanassios , Smith Ryan P. , Heron Dwight E. , Ferris Robert L. , Johnson Jonas T. , Branstetter Barton F.
Published: March 2009

Objective: To determine whether combined positron emission tomography and computed tomography (PET‐CT) may be of value in deferring planned neck dissections for patients with advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Study Design: Observational study of patients with de novo cervical ≥N2 regional spread of HNSCC in a tertiary care academic medical center.

Methods: Forty‐three patients were identified who underwent post‐treatment PET‐CT within 6 months of completing neoadjuvant chemotherapy combined with radiation therapy (CRT). The PET‐CT was “positive” if the radiologist recommended tissue sampling or resection of cervical lymph nodes, or if there was progressive neck disease in the setting of distant metastatic disease. Patients who had positive PET‐CT underwent confirmatory biopsy given clinical suspicion for regional cervical metastasis without distant disease. Patients with negative PET‐CT were followed clinically and radiographically for a minimum of 5 months (median 18.1 months) after CRT.

Results: Ten (22%) of the 43 post‐treatment PET‐CT studies were positive. Seven of the 10 PET‐CT scans (70% of positives) were true‐positive given histologically‐confirmed residual viable tumor or progressive disease including disease in the neck. The 3 remaining studies (30% of positives) were false‐positive PET‐CT results, given resolution of fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avidity on subsequent imaging or tissue sampling demonstrating absence of viable tumor cells. Of the 33 patients with negative PET‐CTs in the neck, 1 patient had absence of FDG‐avidity in the setting of malignant disease in the neck (3% false negatives); otherwise, patients with an initially negative PET‐CT scan had no recurrences during the study (97% true negatives). This corresponds to a sensitivity of 87.5% (7/8), a specificity of 91% (32/35), a positive predictive value of 70% (7/10), a negative predictive value of 97% (32/33), and accuracy of 91% (39/43) for PET‐CT scans in the detection of cervical metastatic disease after CRT. Overall, 37 (86%) of 43 patients were spared neck dissection using this technology without evidence of recurrent disease in the neck at extended follow‐up.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that planned neck dissection after CRT for HNSCC may be deferred in favor of serial PET‐CT imaging, and that sampling of areas of suspicious FDG‐avid uptake can be rationally considered prior to therapeutic neck dissection. These data also suggest that negative PET‐CT scans are highly reliable for the absence of residual cervical nodal disease.
Formalism for the determination of intermediate stress gradients using X-ray diffraction
Authors: Gnäupel-Herold Thomas
Published: March 2009

A method is outlined that allows the determination of one-dimensional stress gradients at length scales greater than 0.2 mm. By using standard four-circle X-ray diffractometer equipment and simple aperture components, length resolutions down to 0.05 mm in one direction can be achieved through constant orientation of a narrow, line-shaped beam spot. Angle calculations are given for the adjustment of goniometer angles, and for the effective azimuth and tilt of the scattering vector for general angle settings in a four-circle goniometer. The latter is necessary for the computation of stresses from lattice strain measurements.
Single‐dose (270 μg kg−1) recombinant activated factor VII for the treatment and prevention of bleeds in haemophilia A patients with inhibitors: experience from seven European haemophilia centres
Authors: PAN‐PETESCH B. , LAGUNA P. , MITAL A. , STANLEY J. , TORCHET M. F. , SALEK S. Z. , SALAJ P.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  Several studies have suggested that recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) is effective and safe at doses >90 μg kg−1. In March 2007, the European Medicines Agency approved the use of single‐dose rFVIIa 270 μg kg−1 for the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate bleeds in haemophilia patients with inhibitors. The aim of this study was to describe the use of single‐dose rFVIIa in a real‐life setting. In November 2007, seven haemophilia specialists from five European countries convened to share and discuss their experiences with the single‐dose rFVIIa regimen within haemophilia A. Case histories of eight patients were discussed in this retrospective study. Six adult and two paediatric patients (age range, 19 months–40 years) were treated with single‐dose rFVIIa for a variety of target‐joint bleeding, other bleeds and bleeding prevention. Treatment was successful in all the eight cases, with most patients requiring one dose to achieve bleeding resolution. No thrombotic or other safety concerns were raised by single‐dose rFVIIa treatment. All patients and physicians preferred single‐dose rFVIIa treatment to multiple injections; key benefits of single‐dose rFVIIa treatment reported by patients and physicians included improved quality of life, greater convenience and ease of administration, improved compliance, faster control of bleeding, less injection‐related pain and faster pain relief. In the patients reported here, single‐dose rFVIIa 270 μg kg−1 appears to be an effective and safe haemostatic treatment that improves the quality of life and convenience of treatment for patients. Such treatment might be of particular benefit for patients with difficult venous access or needle phobia.
Stability, efficacy, and safety of continuously infused sucrose‐formulated recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII‐FS) during surgery in patients with severe haemophilia
Authors: MARTINOWITZ U. , LUBOSHITZ J. , BASHARI D. , RAVID B. , GORINA E. , REGAN L. , STASS H. , LUBETSKY A.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  Bolus injection (BI) of sucrose‐formulated recombinant factor VIII (rFVIII‐FS) is an approved treatment for haemophilia patients undergoing major surgery. Continuous infusion (CI) during surgery has potential benefits by providing steady administration of replacement factor to the patient, avoiding high peaks and low troughs. We tested the stability of rFVIII‐FS under CI conditions and conducted a single‐centre, open‐label, phase III study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CI using rFVIII‐FS in haemophilia A patients undergoing surgery. Patients received bolus rFVIII‐FS to achieve ≥80% FVIII levels 30–60 min presurgery, followed by CI of rFVIII‐FS at a rate calculated to maintain haemostatic factor levels until days 8–10 post surgery. The rate of infusion was adjusted according to daily calculations derived from the actual clearance. The stability of rFVIII‐FS was found to be appropriate for CI for 7 days under the same conditions as clinical settings. Fourteen patients (mean age 37.8 years) receiving on‐demand FVIII treatment without a history of inhibitors underwent 15 surgical procedures including joint replacements, synovectomies, multiple tooth extractions, and cholecystectomy. Bleeding was similar to that observed in non‐haemophilia patients undergoing similar operations in the same department. Haemostasis during surgery was considered by the attending surgeons as ‘excellent’ or ‘good’ in all cases; study investigators rated all 15 cases as ‘excellent’ overall. There were no adverse events, including inhibitor formation, related to rFVIII‐FS. rFVIII‐FS was found to be suitable for use in CI in haemophilia A patients undergoing major surgery.
Pregnancy and rare bleeding disorders
Authors: KADIR R. , CHI C. , BOLTON‐MAGGS P.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  Rare bleeding disorders include deficiency of fibrinogen, prothrombin, factor V, factor VII, factor X, factor XI and factor XIII together with combined deficiency disorders, factor V+VIII deficiency, and deficiency of the vitamin K‐dependent factors (factor II, VII, IX and X). They account for 3–5% of all inherited coagulation disorders. Due to their rarity, information about pregnancy complications and management is limited and mostly derived from case reports. Deficiency of fibrinogen and FXIII are both found to be strongly associated with increased risk of recurrent miscarriage and placental abruption. Factor replacement is used to reduce these risks. However, the risk of miscarriage and ante‐partum complications is less clear in women with other bleeding disorders. Haemostatic abnormalities in women with rare bleeding disorders seem to persist throughout pregnancy especially if the defect is severe. Therefore women affected with these disorders are at risk of post‐partum haemorrhage. The fetus can also be affected and potentially at risk of bleeding complications. Specialised multidisciplinary management is essential to minimise the potential maternal and neonatal complications and ensure an optimal outcome. This paper presents literature review for pregnancy complications in each of the rare bleeding disorders. In addition general principles for management of pregnancy, labour and delivery are discussed.
Inattention, hyperactivity‐impulsivity, academic skills and psychopathology in boys with and without haemophilia
Authors: SPENCER M. L. S. , WODRICH D. L. , SCHULTZ W. , WAGNER L. , RECHT M.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  The aim of this study was to determine if symptoms of inattention (IN) and hyperactivity‐impulsivity (HI) differ for boys with and without haemophilia and to determine if IN and HI are the essential behavioural dimensions on which the two groups differ. Using a quasi‐experimental design, parents’ and teachers’ ratings of IN and HI for boys with and without haemophilia (ages 6–14 years) were compared. IN and HI were also assessed with a psychometric task, as were reading and math, psychopathology, and educational status via various techniques. Boys with haemophilia (n = 19) were rated higher on dimensions of HI and IN by teachers (P = 0.01, P = 0.02, respectively) but only on HI by parents (P = 0.01). In addition, the haemophilia group committed more impulsivity errors on a psychometric task (P = 0.01). Trends, but not statistically significant differences, were found on reading and math scores, and the haemophilia group had more special education participation. Compared to national norms, borderline range scores on the attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)‐related dimensions of HI and psychometrically measured impulsivity characterized the boys with haemophilia. Although not addressing formal diagnoses, this study found that boys with haemophilia risk ADHD‐spectrum problems, especially HI, and special education participation, but not frank academic deficits.
Expression of Fas and Fas ligand in human testicular germ cell tumours
Authors: Baldini E. , Ulisse S. , Marchioni E. , Di Benedetto A. , Giovannetti G. , Petrangeli E. , Sentinelli S. , Donnorso R. P. , Reale M. G. , Mottolese M. , Gandini L. , Lenzi A. , D’Armiento M.
Published: March 2009

In the present study, we analysed the expression of Fas ligand (FasL) and its cognate receptor Fas in 14 seminomatous testicular germ cell tumours (TGCT) and six normal testicular tissues obtained following orchiectomy. Tissue samples have been processed to prepare either total RNA or protein extracts or fixed and embedded in paraffin for immunohistochemistry (IHC) experiments. Quantitative RT‐PCR experiments demonstrated in TGCT a significant (p < 0.01) increase of the FasL mRNA expression of 21.1 ± 5.4 fold, with respect to normal tissues. On the contrary, in the same cancer tissues, the levels of Fas mRNA were significantly (p < 0.01) reduced to 0.27 ± 0.06 fold. These observations were confirmed in western blot experiments showing a significant increase of FasL and a concomitant decrease of Fas proteins in testicular cancer tissues, with respect to normal testis. Moreover, IHC experiments showed a strong FasL immuno‐reactivity in six out of eight TGCT samples analysed, while Fas immuno‐positivity was found in cancer cells of only two TGCT tissues. In addition, in all tumour samples, infiltrating lymphocytes were Fas positive. However, no correlation could be observed between Fas or FasL mRNA variations and clinical parameters such as patient’s age, TNM stage or tumour size. We also compared the serum levels of soluble FasL (sFasL) of 15 patients affected by seminomatous TGCT, of four patients with non‐seminomatous TGCT and six age‐matched healthy males. No significant differences in sFasL serum level could be identified. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that the majority of seminomas are characterized by an increased expression of FasL and a concomitant reduction of Fas, with respect to human normal testis, and that sFasL serum level is not a tumour marker for patients affected by TGCT.
NMR structure of a fungal virulence factor reveals structural homology with mammalian saposin B
Authors: Beck Moriah R. , DeKoster Gregory T. , Cistola David P. , Goldman William E.
Published: March 2009

The fungal protein CBP (calcium binding protein) is a known virulence factor with an unknown virulence mechanism. The protein was identified based on its ability to bind calcium and its prevalence as Histoplasma capsulatum's most abundant secreted protein. However, CBP has no sequence homology with other CBPs and contains no known calcium binding motifs. Here, the NMR structure of CBP reveals a highly intertwined homodimer and represents the first atomic level NMR model of any fungal virulence factor. Each CBP monomer is comprised of four α‐helices that adopt the saposin fold, characteristic of a protein family that binds to membranes and lipids. This structural homology suggests that CBP functions as a lipid binding protein, potentially interacting with host glycolipids in the phagolysosome of host cells.
Control of Pseudomonas aeruginosa AlgW protease cleavage of MucA by peptide signals and MucB
Authors: Cezairliyan Brent O. , Sauer Robert T.
Published: March 2009

The ability of a pathogen to survive the defensive attacks of its host requires the detection of and response to perturbations in its own physiology. Activation of the extracytoplasmic stress response in the pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa results in higher tolerance against immune defences as well as in the production of alginate, a surface polysaccharide that also confers resistance to many host defences and antibiotic treatments. The alginate response is regulated by proteolytic cleavage of MucA, a transmembrane protein that inhibits the transcription factor AlgU, and by the periplasmic protein MucB. Here we show that specific peptides bind to the periplasmic AlgW protease and activate its cleavage of MucA. We demonstrate that tight binding of MucB to MucA strongly inhibits this cleavage. We also probe the roles of structural features of AlgW, including a key regulatory loop and its PDZ domain, in regulating substrate binding and cleavage.
A randomized trial of lower leg and height growth in children with asthma treated with inhaled budesonide from a new dry powder inhaler
Authors: Gradman Josefine , Wolthers Ole D.
Published: March 2009

Gradman J, Wolthers OD. A randomized trial of lower leg and height growth in children with asthma treated with inhaled budesonide from a new dry powder inhaler. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: e206–e212. © 2009 The Authors Journal compilation © 2009 Blackwell Munksgaard

Short‐term knemometry is a highly sensitive and accurate method for non‐invasive assessment of systemic activity of inhaled corticosteroids in children with asthma. However, there are no randomized data available to elucidate the relation between inhaled corticosteroid suppressed short‐term lower leg and height growth. The aim of the present study was to assess the relation between short‐term lower leg and 1‐yr height growth in children with asthma treated with inhaled budesonide from the new Pulairmax® inhaler 200 μg once daily in the morning or montelukast 5 mg once daily. A total of 52 pre‐pubertal children with asthma were included in a randomized open‐label parallel group study. Length of the lower leg and height were measured by knemometry and stadiometry, respectively, at study entry and after 2, 4, 12, 20, 28, 36, 44 and 52 wks. Lower leg and height growth rates were significantly lower in the budesonide than in the montelukast group (p < 0.0001). Mean 2‐wks lower leg growth rate was 0.17 mm/wk in the budesonide and 0.39 mm/wk in the montelukast treated children (p = 0.02). Mean 1‐yr height growth rate was 5.51 cm/yr in the budesonide and 6.51 cm/yr in the montelukast group [95% CI: (0.20; 1.79)]. There was a strong linear correlation between lower leg and height growth in both groups, rho = 0.96 (budesonide) and 0.98 (montelukast). In conclusion, 1‐yr height growth suppression of budesonide 200 μg administered via the Pulairmax® inhaler once daily in the morning was indicated from suppressed short‐term lower leg growth providing evidence that short‐term knemometry is able to predict 1‐yr height growth suppression of inhaled corticosteroids. Short‐term knemometry should be performed as part of the safety assessments of new inhaled corticosteroids and inhalation devices in children with asthma before long‐term height growth evaluations are initiated.
Mental health services for people with intellectual disability: challenges to care delivery
Authors: Chaplin Eddie , O’Hara Jean , Holt Geraldine , Bouras Nick
Published: March 2009

Accessible summary

 This paper looks at how care is given to people with intellectual disability who have mental health problems.

 The paper looks at care since Valuing People came out in 2001.

 It shows there are not enough services for people with intellectual disability who have mental health problems.

 It shows there are not enough services for people who have autism and mental health problems.

 Lots of people feel that mainstream mental health services are not good enough for people with intellectual disability. Lots of people feel mainstream services could be better.

 The paper looks at how people can get help and support in their local area and not having to move away to get help.

 The paper looks at what services might be needed in the future. What can be done to make services better?

 The people who pay for services are called commissioners. They should think about how they can make local services better for with intellectual disability and mental health problems.

 Commissioners should work more together with those who support people with intellectual disability to improve services.

 People with intellectual disability should be happy with the services they have in their local places.

 Services need to remember that people change as they get older.

 Services need to remember that what people want. This can change when they get older.

The commissioning and provision of mental health services for people with intellectual disability is often complex and characterised by different service delivery models. This paper looks at the current situation 7 years after the White Paper, Valuing People (From words into action: London learning disabilities strategic framework, Department of Health, London), within the context of the National Service Framework for Mental Health (Establishing responsible commissioner; draft guidance. HSC draft, Department of Health, London). It sets out to illustrate problems faced in providing local services in the United Kingdom for those with intellectual disability and other neurodevelopmental disorders. This paper proposes new ways of working and introduces the concept of a neurodevelopmental model designed to address gaps and inequalities within services by offering solutions that embrace joint working.
The transferable placebo effect from pain to emotion: Changes in behavior and EEG activity
Authors: Zhang Wencai , Luo Jing
Published: March 2009

Past studies indicate that the placebo expectation established by analgesic treatment significantly relieves pain perception, while ataractic treatment significantly alleviates unpleasant arousal evoked by negative picture processing. But it is unclear whether the placebo effect can be transferred from one domain to the other, namely from pain to emotion. In this study we led participants to believe in the analgesic effect of magnetic treatment equipment (the placebo) by secretly reducing the intensity of pain stimulus. Then, we examined if this placebo could significantly alter participants' negative affect evoked by watching unpleasant pictures. Our results indicated a significant transferable placebo effect that alleviated negative feelings. EEG recordings showed the transferable placebo treatment induced decreased P2 amplitude and increased N2 amplitude, with source location near the posterior cingulate.
Combined Ultrasound and Nerve Stimulation‐Guided Thoracic Epidural Catheter Placement for Analgesia Following Anterior Spine Fusion in Scoliosis
Authors: Pandin Pierre , Haentjens Lionel , Salengros Jean Corentin , Quintin Jeam , Barvais Luc
Published: March 2009

Anterior spine fusion by thoracotomy is indicated for the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis. Although epidural (EP) analgesia represents the most effective way to provide adequate analgesia after thoracotomy, scoliosis patients have substantial anatomic variations that make EP catheter placement more difficult and often contraindicated. This case report describes a safe, effective technique for placing a thoracic EP catheter in a young patient undergoing anterior spine fusion surgery by thoracotomy. The procedure was guided by both ultrasound (US) and electrical stimulation of the Tuohy needle and catheter. The combination of US and nerve stimulation in this setting may be associated with easier, potentially safer, and more accurate insertion.
Financial Management Grades for the States: A Prospective Use
Authors: RUBIN MARILYN MARKS , WILLOUGHBY KATHERINE
Published: March 2009

This research examines whether financial management grades awarded to the states by the Government Performance Project (GPP) can provide some prospective gauge of fiscal performance in proximate years, particularly on the downside of the business cycle. Our findings confirm the weaker fiscal condition in both 2002 and 2003 of states that received lower financial management grades from the GPP in 2001, suggesting that these grades have the potential to be prospective as well as retrospective. These results, however, are tempered by several concerns that inform our suggestions for additional research to further assess the prospective potential of financial management performance grades.
Quantitative Microscopy: Protein Dynamics and Membrane Organisation
Authors: Owen Dylan M. , Williamson David , Rentero Carles , Gaus Katharina
Published: March 2009

The mobility of membrane proteins is a critical determinant of their interaction capabilities and protein functions. The heterogeneity of cell membranes imparts different types of motion onto proteins; immobility, random Brownian motion, anomalous sub‐diffusion, ‘hop’ or confined diffusion, or directed flow. Quantifying the motion of proteins therefore enables insights into the lateral organisation of cell membranes, particularly membrane microdomains with high viscosity such as lipid rafts. In this review, we examine the hypotheses and findings of three main techniques for analysing protein dynamics: fluorescence recovery after photobleaching, single particle tracking and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. These techniques, and the physical models employed in data analysis, have become increasingly sophisticated and provide unprecedented details of the biophysical properties of protein dynamics and membrane domains in cell membranes. Yet despite these advances, there remain significant unknowns in the relationships between cholesterol‐dependent lipid microdomains, protein‐protein interactions, and the effect of the underlying cytoskeleton. New multi‐dimensional microscopy approaches may afford greater temporal and spatial resolution resulting in more accurate quantification of protein and membrane dynamics in live cells.
Surface Water Seepage Effects on Shallow Ground‐Water Quality Along the Rio Grande in Northern New Mexico1
Authors: Helmus A.M. , Fernald A.G. , VanLeeuwen D.M. , Abbott L.B. , Ulery A.L. , Baker T.T.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Interactions between surface irrigation water, shallow ground water, and river water may have effects on water quality that are important for both drinking water supplies and the ecological function of rivers and floodplains. We investigated water quality in surface water and ground water, and how water quality is influenced by surface water inputs from an unlined irrigation system in the Alcalde Valley of the Rio Grande in northern New Mexico. From August 2005 to July 2006, we sampled ground water and surface water monthly and analyzed for concentrations of major cations and anions, specific conductance, pH, dissolved oxygen, and water levels. Results indicate that irrigation ditch seepage caused an increase in ground water levels and that the Rio Grande is a gaining stream in this region. Temporal and spatial differences were found in ion concentrations in shallow ground water as it flowed from under the ditch toward the river. Ground‐water ion concentrations were higher when the ditch was not flowing compared with periods during peak irrigation season when the ditch was flowing. Ditch inputs diluted ion concentrations in shallow ground water at well positions near the ditch. Specifically, lower ion concentrations were detected in ground water at well positions located near the ditch and river compared with well positions located in the middle of an agricultural field. Results from this project showed that ditch inputs influenced ion concentrations and were associated with ground‐water recharge. In arid region river valleys, careful consideration should be given to management scenarios that change seepage from irrigation systems, because in some situations reduced seepage could negatively affect ground‐water recharge and water quality.
Development of a Quantitative Pasture Phosphorus Management Tool Using the SWAT Model1
Authors: White Michael J. , Storm Daniel E. , Smolen Michael D. , Zhang Hailin
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Assessment tools to evaluate phosphorus loss from agricultural lands allow conservation planners to evaluate the impact of management decisions on water quality. Available tools to predict phosphorus loss from agricultural fields are either: (1) qualitative indices with limited applicability to address offsite water quality standards, or (2) models which are prohibitively complex for application by most conservation planners. The purpose of this research was to develop a simple interface for a comprehensive hydrologic/water quality model to allow its usage by farmers and conservation planners. The Pasture Phosphorus Management (PPM) Calculator was developed to predict average annual phosphorus (P) losses from pastures under a variety of field conditions and management options. PPM Calculator is a vastly simplified interface for the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model that requires no knowledge of SWAT by the user. PPM Calculator was validated using 33 months of data on four pasture fields in northwestern Arkansas. This tool has been extensively applied in the Lake Eucha/Spavinaw Basin in northeastern Oklahoma and northwestern Arkansas. PPM Calculator allows conservation planners to take advantage of the predictive capacity of a comprehensive hydrologic water quality model typically reserved for use by hydrologists and engineers. This research demonstrates the applicability of existing water quality models in the development of user friendly P management tools.
Experimental Investigation of Miniature Three-Dimensional Flat-Plate Oscillating Heat Pipe
Authors: Thompson S. M. , Ma H. B. , Winholtz R. A. , Wilson C.
Published: March 2009

An experimental investigation on the effects of condenser temperatures, heating modes, and heat inputs on a miniature three-dimensional (3D) flat-plate oscillating heat pipe (FP-OHP) was conducted visually and thermally. The 3D FP-OHP was charged with acetone at a filling ratio of 0.80, had dimensions of 101.60×63.50×2.54 mm3, possessed 30 total turns, and had square channels on both sides of the device with a hydraulic diameter of 0.762 mm. Unlike traditional flat-plate designs, this new three-dimensional compact design allows for multiple heating arrangements and higher heat fluxes. Transient and steady-state temperature measurements were collected at various heat inputs, and the activation/start-up of the OHP was clearly observed for both bottom and side heating modes during reception of its excitation power for this miniature 3D FP-OHP. The neutron imaging technology was simultaneously employed to observe the internal working fluid flow for all tests directly through the copper wall. The activation was accompanied with a pronounced temperature field relaxation and the onset of chaotic thermal oscillations occurring with the same general oscillatory pattern at locations all around the 3D FP-OHP. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of these thermal oscillations, along with the presentation of the average temperature difference and thermal resistance, for all experimental conditions are provided. The novelty of the three-dimensional OHP design is its ability to still produce the oscillating motions of liquid plugs and vapor bubbles and, more importantly, its ability to remove higher heat fluxes.
Measurements Within Cloud Cavitation by Means of X-Ray Attenuation Device
Authors: Stutz Benoit , Legoupil Samuel , Woo Romuald
Published: March 2009

The purpose of this work is to describe the two-phase flow structure of cloud cavitation. The experimental study is performed in a cavitation tunnel equipped with a Venturi-type test section. The flow is investigated by means of a double optical probe and a X-ray attenuation device. 24 collimated detectors enable to measure the instantaneous space fraction of the vapour phase at different locations of the two-phase flow. The technique used to treat the data from the optical probe signal consists in building histograms, and computing statistical values from them. X-ray intensity measurement mode enable fast data acquisitions (1000Hz). The studied geometry is characterized by a convergent angle of 18° and a divergent angle of 8°. It leads to regular large vapour cloud shedding.
Experiments on Supercavitating Projectiles Fired Horizontally Into Water
Authors: Schaffar Martin J. , Rey Christian J. , Boeglen Ge´rard S.
Published: March 2009

The study of supercavitating projectiles has become an important research subject in the last years and some experimental results are presented here, obtained on supercavitating projectiles fired horizontally into a small test reservoir (1 × 0.5 × 0.5 m3). During these tests spherical, cylindrical and truncated cone projectiles were fired with velocities from 600 to 1000 m/s. The experimental results are compared with the OTi-HULL code (a penetration code of continuum mechanics, useful here but not very well adapted) and with Levinson’s and Serebryakov’s formulas. The comparison shows that: 1) the HULL code underestimates the cavity width by 20 to 40% except for the spherical projectiles, 2) the widths obtained with the Levinson and Serebryakov formulas are close to one another but are also inferior to the experimental values (nearly 10%), 3) the experimental drag coefficients approach the theoretical ones but the HULL code overestimates the drag by nearly 10 to 20%. These experiments confirm the feasibility of these tests at ISL and they will be continued in a larger reservoir.