bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genome Sequence of Mycobacterium hassiacum DSM 44199, a Rare Source of Heat-Stable Mycobacterial Proteins
Authors: Tiago Igor , Maranha Ana , Mendes Vitor , Alarico Susana , Moynihan Patrick J. , Clarke Anthony J. , Macedo-Ribeiro Sandra , Pereira Pedro J. B. , Empadinhas Nuno
Published: December 2012

Mycobacterium hassiacum
is a rapidly growing mycobacterium isolated from human urine and so far the most thermophilic among mycobacterial species. Its thermotolerance and phylogenetic relationship to
M. tuberculosis
render its proteins attractive tools for crystallization and structure-guided drug design. We report the draft genome sequence of
M. hassiacum
DSM 44199.
Genome Sequence of the Human-Pathogenic Bacterium Vibrio vulnificus Type Strain ATCC 27562
Authors: Li Zhaoyun , Chen Huihong , Chen Xianjun , Zhou Tieli , Zhao Lei , Zhang Chunling , Jin Wenyang
Published: December 2012

Vibrio vulnificus
, which is the causative agent of cholera, is a Gram-negative, curved, motile, and rod-shaped bacterium. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of the type strain, ATCC 27562, which was the first isolated
Vibrio vulnificus
strain.
Genome Sequence of OXA-48 Carbapenemase-Producing Klebsiella pneumoniae KpO3210
Authors: Wesselink Jan-Jaap , López-Camacho Elena , de la Peña Santiago , Ramos-Ruiz Ricardo , Ruiz-Carrascoso Guillermo , Lusa-Bernal Silvia , Fernández-Soria Victor M. , Gómez-Gil Rosa , Gomez-Puertas Paulino , Mingorance Jesús
Published: December 2012

Klebsiella pneumoniae
KpO3210 is a OXA-48 carbapenemase-producing isolate obtained from a blood culture in the context of an outbreak in Hospital Universitario La Paz (Madrid, Spain) in 2010. It belongs to the major clone detected during the outbreak and is resistant to all beta-lactams and to several other antibiotics.
Genome Sequence of Nitratireductor pacificus Type Strain pht-3B
Authors: Lai Qiliang , Li Guizhen , Shao Zongze
Published: December 2012

Nitratireductor pacificus
strain pht-3B
T
was isolated from a pyrene-degrading consortium enriched from the deep sea sediment of the Pacific Ocean. Here, we present the draft genome of strain pht-3B
T
, which contains 4,466,205 bp with a G+C content of 65.51% and contains 4,197 protein-coding genes and 46 tRNA genes.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus sp. Strain HYC-10, Isolated from Intestinal Tract Contents from a Marine Fish (Mugil cephalus)
Authors: Lai Qiliang , Liu Yang , Shao Zongze
Published: December 2012

Bacillus
sp. strain HYC-10 was isolated with intestinal tract content of a fish,
Mugil cephalus
, captured from the sea close to Xiamen Island, China. Here, we present the draft genome of strain HYC-10, which contains 3,611,918 bp with a G+C content of 41.30% and contains 3,687 protein-coding genes and 33 tRNA genes.
Genomic Analysis of Rickettsia japonica Strain YH
T
Authors: Dong Xin , El Karkouri Khalid , Robert Catherine , Raoult Didier , Fournier Pierre-Edouard
Published: December 2012

Rickettsia japonica
strain YH, isolated in 1984 in Japan, is the type strain of
R. japonica
, the tick-borne agent of Japanese spotted fever. Here, we report the 1.33-Mb genome of this rickettsial species.
Genome Sequence of the Human-Pathogenetic Bacterium Vibrio vulnificus B2
Authors: Wang Zhi-Gang , Wu Zhan , Xu Shui-Ling , Zha Jia
Published: December 2012

Vibrio vulnificus
, which can lead to rapidly expanding cellulitis or septicemia, is present in the marine environment. Here, we present the draft genome sequence of strain B2, which was isolated from a septicemia patient in 2010.
Pancreatitis-associated pseudoaneurysm of the splenic artery presenting as lower gastrointestinal bleeding: treatment with transcatheter embolisation
Authors: Taslakian Bedros , Khalife Mohammad , Faraj Walid , Mukherji Deborah , Haydar Ali
Published: December 2012

Pancreatitis is a known cause of pseudoaneurysms of the peripancreatic arteries, which can rarely rupture into various adjacent structures and become a source of life-threatening bleeding. The management is challenging and requires an individualised approach and multidisciplinary care. Herein, we present the case of a 24-year-old man in whom a splenic pseudoaneurysm ruptured into the adjacent infected pseudocyst, communicating with the colon by a fistulous tract, causing massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding. This was successfully managed by transcatheter arterial embolisation (TAE).
Bioclimatic equilibrium for lichen distributions on disjunct continental landmasses
Authors: Braidwood David , Ellis Christopher J.
Published: December 2012

Bioclimatic models assume that species distributions reflect their sensitivity to macroclimate, the so-called bioclimatic equilibrium. This has proven to be a controversial assumption. Here we perform a new test in the hypothesis of climatic equilibrium by comparing species’ bioclimatic space between two independently derived spatial distributions in Britain and North America. A presence-only statistical model (MAXENT) was used to construct bioclimatic response surfaces for 25 lichens in North America. These models were then projected onto British climate space. We tested the following: (1) the statistical congruence between likelihood values for North American bioclimatic space projected onto Britain and species’ observed British distributions, and (2) the extent to which the projection for a species matched its observed British distribution pattern better than the distributions for an alternative suite of species. In general, there is good evidence for bioclimatic equilibrium when comparing species distributions in North America and Britain. However, bioclimatic test 1 (statistical congruence) and bioclimatic test 2 (spatial matching) were failed by six (24% of cases) and four (16% of cases) species, respectively. Although there is general support for bioclimatic modelling in lichens, the species that failed a test of equilibrium would have been difficult to predict based on prior knowledge; however it may be explained by taxonomic uncertainty and (or) the existence of multiple correlated environmental drivers.
Review on DDT and metabolites in birds and mammals of aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Hellou Jocelyne , Lebeuf Michel , Rudi Marilynn
Published: December 2012

Interdisciplinary research regarding the pesticide DDT has been ongoing since its synthesis in 1874, with thousands of publications appearing in the literature. The present review, on the 50th anniversary of the publication of Silent Spring by Rachel Carson, examines the state of knowledge regarding the presence and toxicity of DDT in two groups of top predators in the aquatic environment, mammals and birds. The objective is to outline the essential chemical information available on the fate of this most renowned persistent organic pollutant in the context of other lipophilic contaminants, as much in terms of the abiotic environment as for the tissue distribution of DDT derivatives. The facts associated with bioaccumulation and biotransformation as well as linkages to more and less known toxic effects are presented. The discussion highlights the better understanding derived from bird investigations initiated owing to the discovery of avian reproductive effects, in contrast to the challenges faced in research on marine mammals. Eggshell thinning was observed when there were fewer industrial chemicals in use, while in the 21st century the plethora of xenobiotics entering the food web increased exponentially. A discussion of sediment quality guidelines as well as tissue guidelines is presented to explain the derivation of threshold concentrations for toxic effects. Recommendations are made to continue research on environmental contaminants entering the food chain, covering more POP and relevant toxic endpoints. Developments to replace DDT are highlighted alongside the cautionary principle, plus the regulation program launched in Europe in 2002 that will be implemented in 2020 to replace harmful chemicals.
Mesoporous silica and organosilica materials — Review of their synthesis and organic functionalization
Authors: Asefa Tewodros , Tao Zhimin
Published: December 2012

Mesoporous silica and organosilica materials are a class of nanostructured materials that have porous structures with tunable nanometer pores, large surface areas, high pore volumes, and, in some cases, well-ordered mesostructures. Furthermore, in the case of mesoporous organosilicas, the materials possess various types of organic functional groups. This review highlights the different synthetic methods developed for mesoporous silica and organosilica nanomaterials. The review also discusses the various synthetic strategies used to functionalize the surfaces of mesoporous silica materials and produce highly functionalized mesoporous materials. Rational design and synthetic methods developed to place judiciously chosen one or more than one type of functional group(s) on the surfaces of mesoporous silica materials and generate monofunctional and multifunctional mesoporous silica materials are also introduced. These organic functionalization methods have made possible the synthesis of organically functionalized mesoporous silicas and mesoporous organosilicas with various interesting properties and many potential applications in different areas, ranging from catalysis to drug delivery and biosensing.
A counterpoint between computer simulations and biological experiments to train new members of a laboratory of physiological sciences
Authors: Ozu Marcelo , Dorr Ricardo A. , Gutiérrez Facundo , Politi M. Teresa , Toriano Roxana
Published: December 2012

When new members join a working group dedicated to scientific research, several changes occur in the group's dynamics. From a teaching point of view, a subsequent challenge is to develop innovative strategies to train new staff members in creative thinking, which is the most complex and abstract skill in the cognitive domain according to Bloom's revised taxonomy. In this sense, current technological and digital advances offer new possibilities in the field of education. Computer simulation and biological experiments can be used together as a combined tool for teaching and learning sometimes complex physiological and biophysical concepts. Moreover, creativity can be thought of as a social process that relies on interactions among staff members. In this regard, the acquisition of cognitive abilities coexists with the attainment of other skills from psychomotor and affective domains. Such dynamism in teaching and learning stimulates teamwork and encourages the integration of members of the working group. A practical example, based on the teaching of biophysical subjects such as osmosis, solute transport, and membrane permeability, which are crucial in understanding the physiological concept of homeostasis, is presented.
Mechanisms of current therapies for diabetes mellitus type 2
Authors: Thulé Peter M.
Published: December 2012

The array of medications available for the treatment of hyperglycemia has increased rapidly in the previous decade, and recent investigations have clarified novel mechanisms underlying the antihyperglycemic efficacy of these drugs. This article reviews the mechanisms of action for medications currently approved to treat diabetes mellitus in the United States, with the exception of insulin and its analogs. Finally, it attempts to integrate these mechanisms into the schema of pathophysiological factors that combine to produce hyperglycemia in patients with diabetes mellitus.
Teaching nutritional biochemistry: an experimental approach using yeast
Authors: Alonso Manuel , Stella Carlos A.
Published: December 2012

In this report, we present a practical approach to teaching several topics in nutrition to science students at the high school and college freshmen levels. This approach uses baker's yeast ( Saccharomyces cerevisiae ) as a biological system model. The diameters of yeast colonies, which vary according to the nutrients present in the medium, can be observed, compared, and used to teach metabolic requirements. The experiments described in this report show simple macroscopic evidence of submicroscopic nutritional events. This can serve as a useful base for an analogy of heterotrophic human cell nutrition.
A Link between Autophagy and the Pathophysiology of LRRK2 in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Gómez-Suaga Patricia , Fdez Elena , Blanca Ramírez Marian , Hilfiker Sabine
Published: December 2012

Parkinson's disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder, and its molecular etiopathogenesis remains poorly understood. The discovery of monogenic forms has significantly advanced our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying PD, as it allows generation of cellular and animal models carrying the mutant gene to define pathological pathways. Mutations in leucine-rich repeat kinase 2 (LRRK2) cause dominantly inherited PD, and variations increase risk, indicating that LRRK2 is an important player in both genetic and sporadic forms of the disease. G2019S, the most prominent pathogenic mutation, maps to the kinase domain and enhances enzymatic activity of LRRK2, which in turn seems to correlate with cytotoxicity. Since kinases are druggable targets, this has raised great hopes that disease-modifying therapies may be developed around modifying LRRK2 enzymatic activity. Apart from cytotoxicity, changes in autophagy have been consistently reported in the context of G2019S mutant LRRK2. Here, we will discuss current knowledge about mechanism(s) by which mutant LRRK2 may regulate autophagy, which highlights additional putative therapeutic targets.
GaN-Based High-kPraseodymium Oxide Gate MISFETs withP2S5/(NH4)2SX+ UV Interface Treatment Technology
Authors: Lin Chao-Wei , Chiu Hsien-Chin
Published: December 2012

This study examines the praseodymium-oxide- (Pr2O3-) passivated AlGaN/GaN metal-insulator-semiconductor high electron mobility transistors (MIS-HEMTs) with high dielectric constant in which the AlGaN Schottky layers are treated with P2S5/(NH4)2SX+ ultraviolet (UV) illumination. An electron-beam evaporated Pr2O3insulator is used instead of traditional plasma-assisted chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), in order to prevent plasma-induced damage to the AlGaN. In this work, the HEMTs are pretreated with P2S5/(NH4)2SXsolution and UV illumination before the gate insulator (Pr2O3) is deposited. Since stable sulfur that is bound to the Ga species can be obtained easily and surface oxygen atoms are reduced by the P2S5/(NH4)2SXpretreatment, the lowest leakage current is observed in MIS-HEMT. Additionally, a low flicker noise and a low surface roughness (0.38 nm) are also obtained using this novel process, which demonstrates its ability to reduce the surface states. Low gate leakage current Pr2O3and high-kAlGaN/GaN MIS-HEMTs, with P2S5/(NH4)2SX+ UV illumination treatment, are suited to low-noise applications, because of the electron-beam-evaporated insulator and the new chemical pretreatment.
China in Southeast Asia: The Search for a Chinese Model of International Relations
Authors: Jacob Jabin T.
Published: December 2012

Despite China’s claims of a foreign policy of ‘peaceful rise’/‘peaceful development’ and of seeking a ‘harmonious world’, and despite its economic openness and active participation in economic multilateralism, China’s neighbours continue to be concerned about the overall direction and intent of Beijing’s security policies. These concerns are particularly heightened by China’s rapid military modernization of the past couple of decades. The announcement in 2010 that China considered its territorial claims in the South China Sea a ‘core interest’, can be seen as a setback to its regional diplomacy, so diligently crafted over the years and drove its Southeast Asian neighbours to seek closer engagement with the US. This article argues that the contradictions evident in China’s neighbourhood foreign policy reflect its continuing search for a model of international relations that can balance its domestic interests such as the need for political stability, including regime stability, on the one hand and its external ambitions for a decisive role in regional affairs, on the other.
Clinical Pearls for Initiating and Utilizing Liraglutide in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gross Benjamin
Published: December 2012

This review presents clinical pearls for initiating liraglutide (Victoza®, Novo Nordisk Inc) therapy for the management of type 2 diabetes and selecting patients who will benefit from liraglutide therapy. Liraglutide, a once-daily glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist, is Food and Drug Administration approved as an adjunct to diet and exercise to improve glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes. Liraglutide is effective for reducing hemoglobin A1c levels by 0.8% to 1.5% in patients with type 2 diabetes as monotherapy or in combination with other diabetic medications (such as metformin, sulfonylureas, rosiglitazone, or basal insulin) when compared with placebo and these other diabetic medications, including exenatide. Overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes or those with insulin resistance are good candidates for liraglutide therapy because liraglutide use is associated with weight loss (about 2%-4% of initial body weight) and improved β-cell function. The incidence of hypoglycemia with liraglutide is low; therefore, liraglutide would be a safe therapy choice for patients at risk or with a history of symptomatic or severe hypoglycemia. Nausea seems to be the most problematic adverse effect associated with liraglutide therapy, but it is usually transient and is minimized with dose titration.
Pharmacotherapy of Lung Transplantation
Authors: Thompson Melissa L. , Flynn Jeremy D. , Clifford Timothy M.
Published: December 2012

Lung transplantation has become a viable treatment therapy for end-stage lung disease patients. The most common etiologies of end-stage lung disease, which can require a transplant are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH), and pulmonary fibrosis (PF). Listing criteria are institution and program specific. Approximately 1500 lung transplants were performed in 2008; and at 5 years post transplant, one-half are expected to survive. The surgery itself is associated with various complications, including surgical, infectious, and mechanical. Immunosuppression is paramount to the management of these patients, the goal being prevention of T cell activation to prevent rejection of the new organ. The patients commonly receive an induction agent with a T cell depleting antibody and high-dose corticosteroids. Maintenance immunosuppression begins immediately after the surgery, consisting of a combination of a calcineurin inhibitor, antimetabolite, and corticosteroids. Side effect profiles from the various agents will determine the choice of agents, and patients may have modifications throughout the therapy. The role of the pharmacist spans the inpatient management of acute complications to medication selection, management of maintenance immunosuppression, as well as monitoring for adverse drug reactions and drug–drug interactions. A multidisciplinary collaborative approach must be taken to ensure the best outcomes for this patient population.
Residential Mobility
Authors: Oishi Shigehiro , Talhelm Thomas
Published: December 2012

In this article, we summarize psychological research on residential mobility. Psychological research has shed new light on the short-term consequences of residential moves, such as excitement, anxiety, and loneliness, as well as on long-term consequences, such as subjective well-being and mortality risk in adulthood. Psychological research has also clarified the causal relationships between residential mobility and important societal outcomes, such as pro-community action. Finally, recent research integrating psychological and sociological perspectives has led to several new discoveries. For instance, residential mobility evokes anxiety, which in turn leads to familiarity seeking, which in turn leads to favorable market conditions for national chain stores. This article highlights the fact that residential moves have important implications not only for individuals but also for society.
Prisoner reintegration and the stigma of prison time inscribed on the body
Authors: Moran Dominique
Published: December 2012

Building on previous work which has conceptualized the embodied experience of imprisonment as prison time ‘inscribed’ on the body, this article argues that the experience of reintegration after release from prison is similarly embodied and corporeal. It contends that while scholarship of prisoner reintegration post-release has identified the stigmatization of ex-inmates as a challenge to their successful re-entry, the embodied experience of this process has remained under-researched. Drawing on extensive research with women prisoners, former prisoners and prison staff in the contemporary Russian Federation, the article presents empirical evidence that explores the embodied experiences of release and reintegration, identifying specific examples of prison time being ‘inscribed’ on the body which prove problematic for former prisoners, and demonstrating the ways in which their attempts to ‘erase’ or overwrite these inscriptions constitute a stage in the continual corporeal process of becoming. The article suggests that these insights could inform better understandings of experiences of reintegration, and could in turn inform the improvement of provision of services to prisoners during incarceration.
Seeing Movement: On Motion Capture Animation and James Cameron’s Avatar
Authors: Ng Jenna
Published: December 2012

This article proposes that motion capture (mocap) animation relates movement to cinema in a unique way, in that rather than being a quality of the profilmic, in mocap animation movement is itself directly the profilmic. Motion capture records imagery consisting of data of a profilmic object’s positional change in space, rather than data of the object itself. Using this critical distinction between movement and object, the author argues that the experience of mocap changes the nature of the image so that it involves, or is, a specific sense of being, rather than seeing. Due to its thematic treatment of seeing as well as its own application of mocap technology, she also draws on James Cameron’s film Avatar (2009) as an illustration for this thesis on mocap and seeing/being. In the process, she revisits our experiences of seeing light when watching films and considers how mocap and the experience of movement change our engagement with cinema. This discussion is thus not only about our understanding of and interaction with the moving image, but also points to how we can understand movement and being, and the sum of our sensory experiences in the world of cinema ensconced in light and darkness.
Going (Digitally) Native
Authors: Bartlett Mark
Published: December 2012

This article demonstrates first that, in epistemological terms, Avatar relies on scientific ‘documents’ to legitimize its radical political–aesthetic fantasy with such anthropological and historical accuracy that it attains documentary status. The author shows that Avatar constructs its viewers as both hypothesizers of and experimenters with fact, while simultaneously constituting them as critics of fiction. Secondly, he illustrates how scientific legitimacy in Avatar sits in judgment of aesthetic imagination, just as aesthetic imagination sits in judgment of scientific legitimacy. Thirdly, he argues that Avatar is a radical, animated spectacle committed to scientific realism while at the same time being an animated spectacle committed to radical political fantasy. Lastly, he demonstrates how the film offers an alternative model for identity formation, based not on the psychoanalytic processes of introjection, but on the quasi-phenomenological processes of projection into a life form that is factually alien to modern Humanism – into a model of social relations that incorporates symbiotic alliances with the non-human, with flora and fauna, with networked ecological systems in which all actants are interdependent, cooperative, co-constitutive and co-creative.
Cell-type specific requirements for thiol/disulfide exchange during HIV-1 entry and infection
Authors: Stantchev Tzanko S , Paciga Mark , Lankford Carla R , Schwartzkopff Franziska , Broder Christopher C , Clouse Kathleen A
Published: December 2012

Background

The role of disulfide bond remodeling in HIV-1 infection is well described, but the process still remains incompletely characterized. At present, the data have been predominantly obtained using established cell lines and/or CXCR4-tropic laboratory-adapted virus strains. There is also ambiguity about which disulfide isomerases/ reductases play a major role in HIV-1 entry, as protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) and/or thioredoxin (Trx) have emerged as the two enzymes most often implicated in this process.

Results

We have extended our previous findings and those of others by focusing on CCR5-using HIV-1 strains and their natural targets - primary human macrophages and CD4+ T lymphocytes. We found that the nonspecific thiol/disulfide exchange inhibitor, 5,5'-dithiobis(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB), significantly reduced HIV-1 entry and infection in cell lines, human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM), and also phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Subsequent studies were performed using specific anti-PDI or Trx monoclonal antibodies (mAb) in HIV-1 envelope pseudotyped and wild type (wt) virus infection systems. Although human donor-to-donor variability was observed as expected, Trx appeared to play a greater role than PDI in HIV-1 infection of MDM. In contrast, PDI, but not Trx, was predominantly involved in HIV-1 entry and infection of the CD4+/CCR5+ T cell line, PM-1, and PHA-stimulated primary human T lymphocytes. Intriguingly, both PDI and Trx were present on the surface of MDM, PM-1 and PHA-stimulated CD4+ T cells. However, considerably lower levels of Trx were detected on freshly isolated CD4+ lymphocytes, compared to PHA-stimulated cells.

Conclusions

Our findings clearly demonstrate the role of thiol/disulfide exchange in HIV-1 entry in primary T lymphocytes and MDM. They also establish a cell-type specificity regarding the involvement of particular disulfide isomerases/reductases in this process and may provide an explanation for differences among previously published studies. More importantly, from an in vivo perspective, the preferential utilization of PDI may be relevant to the HIV-1 entry and establishment of virus reservoirs in resting CD4+ cells, while the elevated levels of Trx reported in the chronic stages of HIV-1 infection may facilitate the virus entry in macrophages and help to sustain high viremia during the decline of T lymphocytes.
Red blood cell distribution width and iron deficiency anemia among pregnant Sudanese women
Authors: Abdelrahman Esam G , Gasim Gasim I , Musa Imad R , Elbashir Leana M , Adam Ishag
Published: December 2012

Background

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major health problem during pregnancy and it has adverse effects on the mother and the newborn. Red cell distribution width (RDW), which is a quantitative measure for red cell size variation (anisocytosis), is a predictor of IDA. Little is known regarding RDW and IDA during pregnancy.

Methods

A cross sectional study was conducted at the antenatal clinic of Khartoum Hospital, Sudan, to determine the performance of RDW in the diagnosis of IDA using serum ferritin as a gold standard.

Results

Among 194 pregnant women with a gestational period of 21.4 ± 6.5 weeks, 57 (29.4%) had IDA according to serum ferritin levels (<15 μg/l) and 61 (31.4%) had IDA according to RDW (>14.5). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of RDW where serum ferritin was the gold standard were 43.8% (95% CI: 31.4–57.0%), 73.7% (95% CI: 65.8–80.5%), 41.0% (95% CI: 29.2–53.6%), and 76.0% (95% CI: 68.1–82.6%), respectively.

Conclusions

In this study, we found that RDW has a poor performance in diagnosing IDA among pregnant women compared with serum ferritin as the gold standard.

Virtual slides

The virtual slides for this article can be found here:http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/1721072967826303
Sudden death as presenting symptom caused by cardiac primary multicentric left ventricle rhabdomyoma, in an 11-month-old baby. An immunohistochemical study
Authors: Neri Margherita , Di Donato Sabina , Maglietta Rocco , Pomara Cristoforo , Riezzo Irene , Turillazzi Emanuela , Fineschi Vittorio
Published: December 2012

This case report describes a sudden cardiac death in an apparent healthy 11-month-old infant caused by a multifocal cardiac rhabdomyoma. Parents reported that a few days before the child had fallen to the ground getting a little superficial injury to the scalp. The authors hypothesize that it may have been a transient loss of consciousness episode caused by the cardiac tumour. After the gross examination, histological investigation supported by immunohistochemical analysis using antibody anti- Myoglobin, Actin, Vimentin, Desmin, CD34, S-100, Ki-67 was carried out for the diagnosis. Death was attributed to a multifocal cardiac rhabdomyoma, a benign tumour of striated muscle, which has been completely asymptomatic. In particular, one mass filled the entire posterior wall of the left ventricle. The insidious development of benign cardiac tumours also in infants and children is outlined, focusing on the responsible mechanisms of sudden death in such cases and providing a reference for additional study on these subjects.

Virtual slides

The virtual slide(s) for this article can be found here:

http://www.diagnosticpathology.diagnomx.eu/vs/7163626988365078
Whole-body gene expression pattern registration in Platynereis larvae
Authors: Asadulina Albina , Panzera Aurora , Verasztó Csaba , Liebig Christian , Jékely Gáspár
Published: December 2012

Background

Digital anatomical atlases are increasingly used in order to depict different gene expression patterns and neuronal morphologies within a standardized reference template. In evo-devo, a discipline in which the comparison of gene expression patterns is a widely used approach, such standardized anatomical atlases would allow a more rigorous assessment of the conservation of and changes in gene expression patterns during micro- and macroevolutionary time scales. Due to its small size and invariant early development, the annelid Platynereis dumerilii is particularly well suited for such studies. Recently a reference template with registered gene expression patterns has been generated for the anterior part (episphere) of the Platynereis trochophore larva and used for the detailed study of neuronal development.

Results

Here we introduce and evaluate a method for whole-body gene expression pattern registration for Platynereis trochophore and nectochaete larvae based on whole-mount in situ hybridization, confocal microscopy, and image registration. We achieved high-resolution whole-body scanning using the mounting medium 2,2’-thiodiethanol (TDE), which allows the matching of the refractive index of the sample to that of glass and immersion oil thereby reducing spherical aberration and improving depth penetration. This approach allowed us to scan entire whole-mount larvae stained with nitroblue tetrazolium/5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate (NBT/BCIP) in situ hybridization and counterstained fluorescently with an acetylated-tubulin antibody and the nuclear stain 4’6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). Due to the submicron isotropic voxel size whole-mount larvae could be scanned in any orientation. Based on the whole-body scans, we generated four different reference templates by the iterative registration and averaging of 40 individual image stacks using either the acetylated-tubulin or the nuclear-stain signal for each developmental stage. We then registered to these templates the expression patterns of cell-type specific genes. In order to evaluate the gene expression pattern registration, we analyzed the absolute deviation of cell-center positions. Both the acetylated-tubulin- and the nuclear-stain-based templates allowed near-cellular-resolution gene expression registration. Nuclear-stain-based templates often performed significantly better than acetylated-tubulin-based templates. We provide detailed guidelines and scripts for the use and further expansion of the Platynereis gene expression atlas.

Conclusions

We established whole-body reference templates for the generation of gene expression atlases for Platynereis trochophore and nectochaete larvae. We anticipate that nuclear-staining-based image registration will be applicable for whole-body alignment of the embryonic and larval stages of other organisms in a similar size range.
Role of the Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health
Authors: Barnes Thomas R. E. , Paton Carol
Published: December 2012

Positive change in prescribing practice in psychiatric services can be achieved with participation in the UK Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health (POMH-UK) quality improvement programmes. Key elements are feedback of benchmarked performance for local clinical reflection and customised change interventions informed by the national audit findings and parallel qualitative work. However, progress is gradual and gains generally modest.
Best interests provisions in the UK Mental Capacity Act 2005
Authors: Aribisala Olufunso B.
Published: December 2012

The Mental Capacity Act 2005 is a critical statute law for psychiatrists in England and Wales. Its best interests provision is fundamental to substitute decision-making for incapacitated adults. It prescribes a process of and gives structure to substitute decision-making. The participation of the incapacitated adult must be encouraged where practicable. In addition to this, ‘the best interests checklist’ must be applied in every case before a practitioner can arrive at a reasonable belief that the action or decision taken on behalf of an incapacitated adult is in his best interests. Most commentators have shown goodwill towards the workings of the Act and want it to succeed.
Heat Capacity, Excess Molar Volumes and Viscosity Deviation of Binary Systems of N-octylisoquinolinium bis{(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl}imide Ionic Liquid
Authors: Domanska Urszula , Zawadzki Maciej , Krolikowski Marek
Published: December 2012

Heat capacities were determined for two binary systems {N-octylisoquinolinium bis{(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl} imide, ([C8iQuin][NTf2]) + benzene, or butan-1-ol} from (288.15 to 388.15) K. Density and viscosity were determined for four binary mixtures containing {[C8iQuin][NTf2]) + benzene, or toluene, or thiophene or pyridine} at six temperatures (298.15, 308.15, 318.15, 328.15, 338.15 and 348.15) K, ambient pressure, and covering the entire composition range. The influence of temperature and composition was discussed. As usually the heat capacity increases with an increase of the ionic liquid concentration. The molar heat capacities, densities and viscosities were correlated with suitable equations. The excess molar heat capacities, Δ C
p, the excess molar volumes, V
m
E and dynamic viscosity deviations, Δη were described by the Redlich–Kister polynomial expansion. The Δ C
p was negative for benzene and S-shaped for butan-1-ol, the V
m
E and Δη were low and negative. From the experimental values, the volume expansivity and the excess volume expansivity was calculated. The obtained results indicate that ionic liquid interactions with aromatic hydrocarbons are strong dependent on the packing effects and π–π interactions.
The role of FDG-PET-CT in the evaluation of primary systemic therapy in breast cancer: links between metabolic and pathological remission
Authors: Tőkés Tímea , Somlai Krisztián , Székely Borbála , Kulka Janina , Szentmártoni Gyöngyvér , Torgyík László , Galgóczy Hajna , Lengyel Zsolt , Györke Tamás , Dank Magdolna
Published: December 2012

Introduction: FDG-PET-CT is highly sensitive in detection of viable tumour tissue, giving an importance for that in oncological diagnostics. Aim: The authors analysed retrospectively the relationship between metabolic response and changes in Ki-67, a proliferation marker. Methods: Staging FDG-PET-CT scans (before and after therapy) SUVs (Standardized Uptake Value), and morphological changes in the primary tumour and axillary lymph node region were evaluated in 30 patients with breast cancer. Calculated ΔSUV were compared with Ki-67 proliferation marker (measured in biopsies and surgical specimens). Results: The decrease of SUV and size were significant in the primary tumour and the axillary lymph node region. Decrease of Ki-67 was significant. Significant correlation was found between Ki-67 and SUV before therapy, initial Ki-67 and ΔSUV, and ΔKi-67 and ΔSUV. Conclusions: The metabolic changes were more sensitive in the measurement of the therapeutic response than morphological remission, and they correlated well with the pathological response, in not standardized clinical conditions even. Orv. Hetil., 2012, 153, 1958–1964.
EFFECTS OF PREFERENCE AND REINFORCER VARIATION ON WITHIN‐SESSION PATTERNS OF RESPONDING
Authors: Keyl‐Austin Alice A , Samaha Andrew L , Bloom Sarah E , Boyle Megan A
Published: December 2012

We examined correspondence between preference assessment outcome and within‐session patterns of responding in one subject with autism. Responding maintained by a single highly preferred item resulted in a greater total number of responses, a slower decline in within‐session response rates, and a greater proportion of short interresponse times compared to responding maintained by varied moderately preferred (MP) stimuli. Presenting varied MP stimuli within the same session produced greater levels and more sustained responding than presenting those same stimuli individually.
Separation of oil/water emulsion using nano-particle (TiO2/Al2O3) modified PVDF ultrafiltration membranes and evaluation of fouling mechanism
Authors: Yi X. S. , Yu S. L. , Shi W. X. , Wang S. , Jin L. M. , Sun N. , Ma C. , Sun L. P.
Published: December 2012

In the present study, nano-sized TiO2/Al2O3 modified polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes (MM) were fabricated and then utilized for oil/water emulsion separation. The results showed that, compared with PVDF membrane (OM), the contact angle of MM decreased and hydrophilicity increased. The ultrafiltration (UF) of oil in water emulsions with transmembrane pressure (TMP) increasing results in a sharp fall in relative flux with time. The cake filtration models did not always predict the performance over the complete range of filtration times very well. In the initial 30 min, all the four cake models can simulate this UF process to a certain extent, and the suitability was: cake filtration > intermediate pore blocking > standard pore blocking > complete pore blocking models. However, they were no longer adapted well with UF time extent to 60 min, but only cake filtration (R2 = 0.9535) maintained a high adaptability. Surface and cross-sectional morphology of the membrane was investigated by SEM to make an advanced certificate of this UF mechanism.
Experimental and numerical investigation of interactions between above and below ground drainage systems
Authors: Djordjević Slobodan , Saul Adrian J. , Tabor Gavin R. , Blanksby John , Galambos Istvan , Sabtu Nuridah , Sailor Gavin
Published: December 2012

This paper presents the results of the experimental and numerical investigation of interactions between surface flood flow in urban areas and the flow in below ground drainage systems (sewer pipes and manholes). An experimental rig has been set up at the Water Engineering Laboratory at the University of Sheffield. It consists of a full scale gully structure with inlet grating, which connects the 8 m2 surface area with the pipe underneath that can function as an outfall and is also further connected to a tank so that it can come under surcharging conditions and cause outflow from the gully. A three-dimensional CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) model has been set up to investigate the hydraulic performance of this type of gully inlet during the interactions between surface flood flow and surcharged pipe flow. Preliminary results show that the numerical model can replicate various complex 3D flow features observed in laboratory conditions. This agreement is overall better in the case of water entering the gully than for the outflow conditions. The influence of the surface transverse slope on flow characteristics has been demonstrated. It is shown that re-circulation zones can form downstream from the gully. The number and size of these zones is influenced by the transverse terrain slope.
Anaerobic treatment of residual lemon pulp in digesters with semi-continuous feed
Authors: Navarro A. R. , Lopez Z. , Salguero J. , Maldonado M. C.
Published: December 2012

Lemon growing areas in the north of Argentina have industries that produce concentrated juice, peel and essential oil and generate a significant amount of liquid and solid waste as lemon pulp. In Argentina, despite the potential applications that the pulp has as animal feed and human and industrial raw material, only 10% is used for these purposes and the rest is discarded into the environment causing many ecological and economic problems. There is little information in the literature on biotechnologies for the treatment of this industrial waste. This paper shows that lemon pulp is a suitable substrate to be treated by anaerobic digestion. We obtained 86 and 92% reduction of chemical oxygen demand in a digester with a semi-continuous feed and retention time of 10 and 20 days respectively and a productivity of 0.406 g CH4/g VS h. Comparative tests showed that pre-digesting the pulp improved the process of digestion and increased biogas generation by 20%.
Odours in sewer networks: nuisance assessment
Authors: Pérez A. , Manjón C. , Martínez J. V. , Juárez-Galan J. M. , Barillon B. , Bouchy L.
Published: December 2012

As odour nuisance can affect the quality of life, the population is more and more demanding and in many cities sewers are a critical source of odours. Both factors can lead to increasing numbers of complaints due to the odour nuisance perceived by the residents, affecting also the public image of the sewer management companies. Odours associated with sewer networks are very heterogeneous, in as much as the different ‘types of odours’ encountered are sewer site specific. The state of the art indicates that there are three parameters that play an important role with the nuisance generated by an odour: hedonic odour tone, odour concentration and odour intensity. This paper presents the results of the study on odour nuisance carried out in different points of the sewer network, with the aim to assess the nuisance generated and identify which points of the sewer should be targeted to implement corrective actions. Considering the different parameters assessed, pumping stations have been identified as critical points of odour nuisance in the sewers, being recommended to implement an odour treatment system in order to guarantee the odour comfort of residents.
Biobarriers for groundwater treatment: a review
Authors: Careghini A. , Saponaro S. , Sezenna E.
Published: December 2012

Biobarriers (BBs) are a new type of in situ technology for the remediation of contaminated groundwater. In recent years, this remediation technique has been more and more used in place of traditional Pump & Treat systems or other in situ technologies both in the USA and Europe. This work reviews the main experiences of BBs. The literature contains reports about tests and application at different scales (laboratory, pilot and full scale), which have been analyzed according to the aim of the study, the operative conditions adopted, the filling material, the inoculation procedure, the electron acceptor and the nutrient delivery systems. Operative conditions were extremely varied. Lab scale experiments pointed out good results in terms of pollutant removal efficiency. Pilot scale tests and full-scale applications confirmed the results obtained at lab scale, but also pointed out the importance of design for a proficient remediation system. The experiences underlined some possible critical issues: (a) the filling material must ensure proper hydraulic properties, but it also must be capable of keeping biomass in the reactive zone; (b) inoculation is a critical step and measurements should be carried out to check the initial distribution of microorganisms and its evolution over time; (c) electron acceptor and nutrient supply is usually required, but oxygenation into anaerobic aquifers can be critical.
Computer simulation of control strategies for optimal anaerobic digestion
Authors: Strömberg S. , Possfelt M. O. , Liu J.
Published: December 2012

Three previously published control strategies for anaerobic digestion were implemented in Simulink/Matlab using Anaerobic Digestion Model No. 1 (ADM1) to model the biological process. The controllers’ performance were then simulated and evaluated based on their responses from five different types of process scenarios i.e. start-up and steady state performance as well as disturbances from concentration, pH and ammonia in the inflow. Of the three evaluated control strategies, the extremum-seeking variable gain controller gave the best overall performance. However, a proportional feedback controller based on the pH-level, used as a reference case in the evaluation, proved to give as good results as the extremum-seeking variable gain controller but with a lower wear on the pump. It was therefore concluded that a fast proportional control of the reactor pH is a key element for optimally controlling a low-buffering anaerobic digestion process.
Chloride ion transport and fate in oilfield wastewater reuse by interval dynamic multimedia aquivalence model
Authors: Hu Y. , Zhang C. , Wang D. Z. , Wen J. Y. , Chen M. H. , Li Y.
Published: December 2012

A surface flow constructed wetland was built up to dispose of oilfield wastewater with a high level of inorganic salt ions. Chlorine ion (Cl−) was selected as an indicator of soil secondary salinization, and an interval dynamic multimedia aquivalence (IDMA) model was developed to investigate the dynamic multimedia environmental (air, water, soil, flora, and groundwater) effects of Cl− in the wastewater irrigation process between 2002 and 2020. The modeled Cl− concentrations were in good agreement with the measured ones, as indicated by the interval average logarithmic residual errors (IALREs) being generally lower than 0.5 logarithmic units. The model results showed that the temporal trends of Cl− concentrations in the multimedia environments represented a relatively steady state. More than 97.00% of the mass exchange was finished between soil and groundwater compartments, and Cl− finally outputted the environmental system by the pathways of advection outflows in the water (71.03%) and groundwater (24.02%). Soil (59.17%) was the dominant sink of Cl−. It was revealed that the high level of Cl− in oilfield wastewater was well treated by the constructed wetland, and there was not a significant environmental effect of soil secondary salinization in the oilfield wastewater reused for the constructed wetland irrigation.