bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An isotopic technique to mark mid‐sized vertebrates non‐invasively
Authors: Pauli J. N. , Ben‐David M. , Buskirk S. W. , DePue J. E. , Smith W. P.
Published: March 2009

Although dispersal is an important attribute of animal population ecology, knowledge of dispersal rates or distances for many wide‐ranging species is lacking. Current methods require capturing and restraining animals, which can be cost‐prohibitive, fail to collect sufficient samples or change animal ranging behaviors. Herein, we describe a novel, cost‐effective and non‐invasive method, using bait enriched with stable isotopes to mark the hair of American martensMartes americana. Captive martens that consumed isotopically labeled glycine exhibited significant and progressive enrichment in the isotopic signature of13C,15N and2H in both whole blood and hair. A distinct mark in hair, >2 standard deviations above natural abundance, occurred within 14 days of the second dose. The rate of isotopic labeling of hair was higher in spring, possibly because labeled amino acids became diluted among the many hairs growing during the autumn. Because hair and feathers can be collected non‐invasively from large geographic areas without capturing animals, this labeling method can be used to mark and study the movement and dispersal rates of animals across landscapes efficiently.
CLINICAL RESEARCH LAW IN JORDAN: AN ETHICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: RAMAHI IBRAHIM , SILVERMAN HENRY
Published: March 2009

An ethical analysis of Jordan's Clinical Research Law, which became effective in 2001, was performed. Accordingly, this paper discusses the major components, key strengths and weaknesses of this law. As an initial effort, the Law addresses important aspects of research ethics and, hence, should serve as an example for other Arab Countries in the Middle East. Unique aspects of the Law include the requirement that those conducting any study have insurance that can compensate for research injuries and a system of fines and punishments for noncompliance with the Law. There are, however, some key items missing in the Jordanian Law. For example, the Law does not mention the requirement of a favourable assessment of risks and benefits, the fair selection of subjects, or articles regarding the protection of the rights and welfare of children and other vulnerable subjects participating in research. The paper concludes with the suggestion that new amendments should be considered for future revisions of the Clinical Research Law in Jordan.
CHALLENGES FACED BY RESEARCH ETHICS COMMITTEES IN EL SALVADOR: RESULTS FROM A FOCUS GROUP STUDY
Authors: CAMP JONATHAN W. , BARFIELD RAYMOND C. , RODRIGUEZ VIRGINIA , YOUNG AMANDA J. , FINERMAN RUTHBETH , CANIZA MIGUELA A.
Published: March 2009

Objective:  To identify perceived barriers to capacity building for local research ethics oversight in El Salvador, and to set an agenda for international collaborative capacity building.

Methods:  Focus groups were formed in El Salvador which included 17 local clinical investigators and members of newly formed research ethics committees. Information about the proposed research was presented to participants during an international bioethics colloquium sponsored and organized by the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in collaboration with the National Ethics Committee of El Salvador and the University of El Salvador. Interviews with the focus group participants were qualitatively analyzed.

Results:  Participants expressed the need to tailor the informed consent process and documentation to the local culture; for example, allowing family members to participate in decision‐making, and employing shorter consent forms. Participants indicated that economic barriers often impede efforts in local capacity building. Participants valued international collaboration for mutual capacity building in research ethics oversight.

Conclusions:  Research ethics committees in El Salvador possess a basic knowledge of locally relevant ethical principles, though they need more training to optimize the application of bioethical principles and models to their particular contexts. Challenges increase the value of collaborative exchanges with ethics committee members in the United States. Further research on facilitating communication between host country and sponsor country ethics committees can maximize local research ethics expertise, and thus raise the standard of protecting human participants involved in international research.
Autophagy and amino acid homeostasis are required for chronological longevity in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Alvers Ashley L. , Fishwick Laura K. , Wood Michael S. , Hu Doreen , Chung Hye S. , Dunn Jr William A. , Aris John P.
Published: March 2009

Following cessation of growth, yeast cells remain viable in a nondividing state for a period of time known as the chronological lifespan (CLS). Autophagy is a degradative process responsible for amino acid recycling in response to nitrogen starvation and amino acid limitation. We have investigated the role of autophagy during chronological aging of yeast grown in glucose minimal media containing different supplemental essential and nonessential amino acids. Deletion of ATG1 or ATG7, both of which are required for autophagy, reduced CLS, whereas deletion of ATG11, which is required for selective targeting of cellular components to the vacuole for degradation, did not reduce CLS. The nonessential amino acids isoleucine and valine, and the essential amino acid leucine, extended CLS in autophagy‐deficient as well as autophagy‐competent yeast. This extension was suppressed by constitutive expression of GCN4, which encodes a transcriptional regulator of general amino acid control (GAAC). Consistent with this, GCN4 expression was reduced by isoleucine and valine. Furthermore, elimination of the leucine requirement extended CLS and prevented the effects of constitutive expression of GCN4. Interestingly, deletion of LEU3, a GAAC target gene encoding a transcriptional regulator of branched side chain amino acid synthesis, dramatically increased CLS in the absence of amino acid supplements. In general, this indicates that activation of GAAC reduces CLS whereas suppression of GAAC extends CLS in minimal medium. These findings demonstrate important roles for autophagy and amino acid homeostasis in determining CLS in yeast.
Race/ethnicity and telomere length in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Diez Roux Ana V. , Ranjit Nalini , Jenny Nancy S. , Shea Steven , Cushman Mary , Fitzpatrick Annette , Seeman Teresa
Published: March 2009

Telomere length has emerged as a marker of exposure to oxidative stress and aging. Race/ethnic differences in telomere length have been infrequently investigated. Leukocyte telomere length (LTL) was assessed 981 white, black and Hispanic men and women aged 45–84 years participating in the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis. Direct measurement and questionnaire were used to assess covariates. Linear regression was used to estimate associations of LTL with race/ethnicity and age after adjustment for sex, income, education, smoking, physical activity, diet and body mass index. On average blacks and Hispanics had shorter telomeres than whites [adjusted mean differences (standard error) in T/S ratio compared to whites: −0.041 (0.018) for blacks and −0.044 (0.018) for Hispanics]. Blacks and Hispanics showed greater differences in telomere length associated with age than whites (adjusted mean differences in T/S ratio per 1 year increase in age −0.0018, −0.0047 and −0.0055 in whites, blacks and Hispanics respectively). Differences in age associations were more pronounced and only statistically significant in women. Race/ethnic differences in LTL may reflect the cumulative burden of differential exposure to oxidative stress (and its predictors) over the lifecourse.
Reduced expression of alpha‐1,2‐mannosidase I extends lifespan in Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Liu Ya‐Lin , Lu Wan‐Chih , Brummel Theodore J. , Yuh Chiou‐Hwa , Lin Pei‐Ting , Kao Tzu‐Yu , Li Fang‐Yi , Liao Pin‐Chao , Benzer Seymour , Wang Horng‐Dar
Published: March 2009

Exposure to sub‐lethal levels of stress, or hormesis, was a means to induce longevity. By screening for mutations that enhance resistance to multiple stresses, we identified multiple alleles of alpha‐1,2‐mannosidase I (mas1) which, in addition to promoting stress resistance, also extended longevity. Longevity enhancement is also observed when mas1 expression is reduced via RNA interference in both Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans. The screen also identified Edem1 (Edm1), a gene downstream of mas1, as a modulator of lifespan. As double mutants for both mas1 and Edm1 showed no additional longevity enhancement, it appeared that both mutations function within a common pathway to extend lifespan. Molecular analysis of these mutants revealed that the expression of BiP, a putative biomarker of dietary restriction (DR), is down‐regulated in response to reductions in mas1 expression. These findings suggested that mutations in mas1 may extend longevity by modulating DR.
Groundwater governmentality: hegemony and technologies of resistance in Rajasthan's (India) groundwater governance
Authors: BIRKENHOLTZ TREVOR
Published: March 2009

Globally, decentralisation has become the dominant paradigm for environmental governance. This paper explores the linkages between green governmentality approaches to subjectivity and Gramscian notions of hegemony to examine recent efforts in Rajasthan, India to decentralise groundwater governance through targeted formal regulations and outreach activities, such as water awareness campaigns (Jal Abhiyaan). The latter seeks to alter the beliefs and practices of farmers by institutionalising their support for state groundwater conservation efforts, including privatisation. The paper draws on household surveys and interviews with farmers and government agents to examine the relationship between the political economic motivations for and practices of state subject‐making and differential resistance to these efforts based on farmers’ multiple subject positions. Findings suggest, first, that the state is motivated through its monetary and advisory relationship with donor agencies, such as the World Bank. Through both outreach activities and coercion, it attempts to gain ‘consent’ for its proposals, which devolve state control rather than truly decentralising decision‐making, to make self‐conducting and willing subjects of specifically neoliberal groundwater conservation. But, second, these attempts are being resisted by some farmers through protests, informal discussions, non‐participation, and the collectivisation of access to groundwater and irrigation through irrigation partnerships. Third, resistance to these efforts, or support for them, is different between farmers based on their multiple subjectivities (caste, class and ecological conditions). The paper advances both our understanding of the processes of environmental subject‐making and of the devolution of environmental governance, by integrating the lessons from governmentality and Gramscian approaches to social power and subjectivity.
Pathways to the Use of Health Services Research in Policy
Authors: Gold Marsha
Published: March 2009

Objective. To apply social science theory so as to define more explicitly the pathways that influence policy makers' use of health services research.

Methods. The analysis builds on a literature review and the author's observations. It identifies important social science concepts relevant to use of research in policy and organizational decision making. It integrates and expands upon existing frameworks to differentiate and analyze 10 pathways that can lead to the use of health services research by policy makers.

Principal Findings. The process through which research is applied involves many factors, only some of which are amenable to influence by researchers. Within these constraints, multiple pathways can drive research use; no one of these is likely to perform better in all circumstances. Successful uptake is more likely when these pathways cause findings to be converted into messages meaningful to policy makers. Various intermediaries play an important role in creating effective pathways, while users also can influence them.

Conclusions. The pathways open up what too often is an unexplored “black box” that mediates between health services research and its use by policy makers. Such pathways can help stakeholders to bridge different perspectives in ways that strengthen the possibility that effective research will be supported and used.
The Relationship between Hospital Volume and Mortality in Mechanical Ventilation: An Instrumental Variable Analysis
Authors: Kahn Jeremy M. , Ten Have Thomas R. , Iwashyna Theodore J.
Published: March 2009

Objective. To examine the relationship between hospital volume and mortality for nonsurgical patients receiving mechanical ventilation.

Data Sources. Pennsylvania state discharge records from July 1, 2004, to June 30, 2006, linked to the Pennsylvania Department of Health death records and the 2000 United States Census.

Study Design. We categorized all general acute care hospitals in Pennsylvania (n=169) by the annual number of nonsurgical, mechanically ventilated discharges according to previous criteria. To estimate the relationship between annual volume and 30‐day mortality, we fit linear probability models using administrative risk adjustment, clinical risk adjustment, and an instrumental variable approach.

Principle Findings. Using a clinical measure of risk adjustment, we observed a significant reduction in the probability of 30‐day mortality at higher volume hospitals (≥300 admissions per year) compared with lower volume hospitals (<300 patients per year; absolute risk reduction: 3.4%, p=.04). No significant volume–outcome relationship was observed using only administrative risk adjustment. Using the distance from the patient's home to the nearest higher volume hospital as an instrument, the volume–outcome relationship was greater than observed using clinical risk adjustment (absolute risk reduction: 7.0%, p=.01).

Conclusions. Care in higher volume hospitals is independently associated with a reduction in mortality for patients receiving mechanical ventilation. Adequate risk adjustment is essential in order to obtained unbiased estimates of the volume–outcome relationship.
The Industrial Ecology of Emerging Technologies
Authors: Allenby Braden
Published: March 2009

The modern world increasingly reflects human activities, to the point that many scientists are referring to this era as the “Anthropocene,” the Age of Humans. A major domain of human activity involves sociotechnical systems, which can be characterized as occurring in constellations of coevolving technological, cultural, institutional, economic, and psychological systems lasting over many decades. The current constellation, still in its early stages of development, brings together five powerful technology systems—nanotechnology, biotechnology, robotics, information and communication technology, and cognitive science—that are even more complex than historical precedents because they enable not just far more powerful capabilities to design domains external to humans but also the potential to design individual humans themselves. Understanding the implications of this sociotechnical landscape for industrial ecology suggests profound theoretical challenges as well as important new areas of research.
Fostering Industrial Symbiosis With Agent‐Based Simulation and Participatory Modeling
Authors: Batten David F.
Published: March 2009

The sciences of industrial ecology, complex systems, and adaptive management are intimately related, since they deal with flows and dynamic interdependencies between system elements of various kinds. As such, the tool kit of complex systems science could enrich our understanding of how industrial ecosystems might evolve over time. In this article, I illustrate how an important tool of complex systems science—agent‐based simulation—can help to identify those potential elements of an industrial ecosystem that could work together to achieve more eco‐efficient outcomes. For example, I show how agent‐based simulation can generate cost‐efficient energy futures in which groups of firms behave more eco‐efficiently by introducing strategically located clusters of renewable, low‐emissions, distributed generation. I then explain how role‐playing games and participatory modeling can build trust and reduce conflict about the sharing of common‐pool resources such as water and energy among small clusters of evolving agents. Collective learning can encourage potential industrial partners to gradually cooperate by exchanging by‐products and/or sharing common infrastructure by dint of their close proximity. This kind of coevolutionary learning, aided by participatory modeling, could help to bring about industrial symbiosis.
Positive Affect and Incidence of Frailty in Elderly Women Caregivers and Noncaregivers: Results of Caregiver–Study of Osteoporotic Fractures
Authors: Park‐Lee Eunice , Fredman Lisa , Hochberg Marc , Faulkner Kimberly
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether positive affect is associated with a lower incidence of frailty over 2 years in elderly community‐dwelling women and to test the stress‐buffering hypothesis by evaluating whether these associations differed in caregivers and noncaregivers.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study with three annual interviews conducted in four U.S. communities between 1999 and 2004.

SETTING: Home‐based interviews.

PARTICIPANTS: Three hundred thirty‐seven caregiver and 617 noncaregiver participants from the Caregiver‐Study of Osteoporotic Fractures (Caregiver‐SOF) who were not frail at the baseline Caregiver‐SOF interview.

MEASUREMENTS: High and low positive affect and depressive symptoms were derived from the baseline 20‐item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Frailty was the development of three or more indicators (weight loss, exhaustion, slow walking speed, or weak grip strength) at the first or second follow‐up interview.

RESULTS: Respondents' mean age was 81.2. Caregivers and noncaregivers had similar levels of positive affect (56.3% vs 58.3%) and frailty incidence (15.4% vs 15.9%) but differed in perceived stress (mean Perceived Stress Scale score 16.7 vs 14.8, P<.001). Frailty risk was lower in respondents with high positive affect than in those with low positive affect in the total sample (adjusted hazard ratio (HR)=0.49, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.35–0.70), caregivers (adjusted HR=0.44, 95% CI=0.24–0.80) and noncaregivers (adjusted HR=0.50, 95% CI=0.32–0.77).

CONCLUSION: These findings add to the evidence that positive affect protects against health decline in older adults, although it had no additional stress‐buffering effect on health in elderly caregivers.
Morphology, Biometry, and Taxonomy of Freshwater and Marine Interstitial Cyphoderia (Cercozoa: Euglyphida)
Authors: TODOROV MILCHO , GOLEMANSKY VASSIL , MITCHELL EDWARD A. D. , HEGER THIERRY J.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. Good taxonomy is essential for ecological, biogeographical, and evolutionary studies of any group of organisms. Therefore, we performed detailed light‐ and scanning electron microscopy investigations on the shell ultrastructure and biometric analyses of the morphometric variability of five freshwater and marine interstitial testate amoebae of the genus Cyphoderia (C. trochus var. amphoralis, C. ampulla, C. margaritacea var. major, C. compressa, and C. littoralis), isolated from different populations in Bulgaria and Switzerland. Our aims were (1) to clarify the morphological characteristics of these taxa, and (2) to compare the morphology of a given taxon (C. ampulla) among different locations in Bulgaria and Switzerland as a first step towards an assessment of the geographical variation within a supposedly cosmopolitan taxon. Four of the studied taxa are characterized by a well‐expressed main‐size class and by a small size range of all the characters and can be defined as size‐monomorphic species. Based on these results, the following systematic changes are proposed: C. major (Penard, 1891) n. comb. (Syn.: C. margaritacea var. major (Penard, 1891) and C. amphoralis (Wailes & Penard, 1911) n. comb. (Syn.: C. trochus var. amphoralis (Wailes & Penard, 1911)). However, we also show significant morphological variability between the Swiss and Bulgarian populations of C. ampulla, suggesting the possible existence of more than one taxon within this species. Further studies are required to assess (1) if these two morphologically different taxa represent individual species, (2) if so, if more species exist, and if this diversity is due to limited distribution ranges (endemism) or if several closely related taxa occur together in different geographical areas.
The Distribution of Elongation Factor‐1 Alpha (EF‐1α), Elongation Factor‐Like (EFL), and a Non‐Canonical Genetic Code in the Ulvophyceae: Discrete Genetic Characters Support a Consistent Phylogenetic Framework
Authors: GILE GILLIAN H. , NOVIS PHILIP M. , CRAGG DAVID S. , ZUCCARELLO GIUSEPPE C. , KEELING PATRICK J.
Published: March 2009

ABSTRACT. The systematics of the green algal class Ulvophyceae have been difficult to resolve with ultrastructural and molecular phylogenetic analyses. Therefore, we investigated relationships among ulvophycean orders by determining the distribution of two discrete genetic characters previously identified only in the order Dasycladales. First, Acetabularia acetabulum uses the core translation GTPase Elongation Factor 1α (EF‐1α) while most Chlorophyta instead possess the related GTPase Elongation Factor‐Like (EFL). Second, the nuclear genomes of dasycladaleans A. acetabulum and Batophora oerstedii use a rare non‐canonical genetic code in which the canonical termination codons TAA and TAG instead encode glutamine. Representatives of Ulvales and Ulotrichales were found to encode EFL, while Caulerpales, Dasycladales, Siphonocladales, and Ignatius tetrasporus were found to encode EF‐1α, in congruence with the two major lineages previously proposed for the Ulvophyceae. The EF‐1α of I. tetrasporus supports its relationship with Caulerpales/Dasycladales/Siphonocladales, in agreement with ultrastructural evidence, but contrary to certain small subunit rRNA analyses that place it with Ulvales/Ulotrichales. The same non‐canonical genetic code previously described in A. acetabulum was observed in EF‐1α sequences from Parvocaulis pusillus (Dasycladales), Chaetomorpha coliformis, and Cladophora cf. crinalis (Siphonocladales), whereas Caulerpales use the universal code. This supports a sister relationship between Siphonocladales and Dasycladales and further refines our understanding of ulvophycean phylogeny.
Secretory breast carcinoma in a 63‐year‐old man
Authors: Iglesias Begoña , Monteagudo Benigno , Rouco José S. , Antón Iosu
Published: March 2009

A secretory carcinoma of the breast, associated with axillary node metastasis, occurred in a 63‐year‐old man. Secretory breast carcinoma is a rare variant of breast carcinoma, but it is the commonest type seen in children, although most of the cases have been described in females. Here, we describe a case in an adult man.
Multi‐behavioral strategies in a predator–prey game: an evolutionary algorithm analysis
Authors: Mitchell William A
Published: March 2009

Behavioral games between predators and prey often involve two sub‐games: ‘pre‐encounter’ games affecting the rate of encounter between predators and prey (e.g. predator–prey space games,Sih 2005), and ‘post‐encounter’ games that influence the outcome of encounters (e.g. waiting games at prey refugia,Hugie 2003, and games of vigilance,Brown et al. 1999). Most models, however, focus on only one or the other of these two sub‐games.

I investigated a multi‐behavioral game between predators and prey that integrated both pre‐encounter and post‐encounter behaviors. These behaviors included landscape‐scale movements by predators and prey, a type of prey vigilance that increases immediately after an encounter and then decays over time (‘ratcheting vigilance’), and predator management of prey vigilance. I analyzed the game using a computer‐based evolutionary algorithm. This algorithm embedded an individual‐based model of ecological interactions within a dynamic adaptive process of mutation and selection. I investigated how evolutionarily stable strategies (ESS) varied with the predators’ learning ability, killing efficiency, density and rate of movement. I found that when predators learn prey location, random prey movement can be an ESS. Increased predator killing efficiency reduced prey movement, but only if the rate of predator movement was low. Predators countered ratcheting vigilance by delaying their follow‐up attacks; however, this delay was reduced in the presence of additional predators. The interdependence of pre‐and post‐encounter behaviors revealed by the evolutionary algorithm suggests an intricate co‐evolution of multi‐behavioral predator–prey behavioral strategies.
Resource‐based habitat definition, niche overlap and conservation of two sympatric glacial relict butterflies
Authors: Turlure Camille , Van Dyck Hans , Schtickzelle Nicolas , Baguette Michel
Published: March 2009

The precise knowledge of ecological resources and conditions required by species threatened by rapidly changing environmental conditions is of prime importance for conservation biology. Transferability of this knowledge between species with similar ecological requirements is often assumed, but rarely tested. This is especially the case for glacial relict populations confined to climate‐habitat traps from where they cannot move to rejoin areas with suitable environmental conditions. Using two glacial relict butterflies as model organisms, we first quantitatively define larval and adult resource‐based habitat use of each species. Secondly, we test the transferability of ecological profiles (both habitat and ecological niche) between these two species that share both the same biotope and the same host plant. Our results show that both species have markedly different ecological requirements relating to differences in life history and behavioural traits (i.e. egg‐laying strategies and mate‐locating behaviour). Although the two species share many ecological features, they use different functional habitats within our study site. The high degree of interspecific niche overlap should indicate a high interspecific competition. However, we argue that their co‐existence can be explained by the non‐limiting abundance of some resources (e.g. host plants), by the partial separation in time of adult flight periods and by the territorial behaviour of one of the species. We discuss the following general messages: (1) functional habitat of a (threatened) species should be defined in a spatial context corresponding to individual station keeping, and (2) quick diagnosis based on similar ecological requirements may be misleading for the design of reliable conservation and restoration strategies. Detailed mechanistic and quantitative ecological understanding of resource‐use and environmental tolerances across an organism's life cycle is essential for effective conservation in changing environments, like for glacial relict species.
Differential virulence in a multiple‐host parasite of bumble bees: resolving the paradox of parasite survival?
Authors: Rutrecht Samina T. , Brown Mark J. F.
Published: March 2009

Parasite virulence determines both the impact that parasites have on their hosts and parasite fitness. While most studies of virulence have involved single‐species host–parasite interactions, the majority of parasites are likely to use multiple concurrent host species. Our understanding of how this impacts on parasite epidemiology and virulence is limited. Using the bumble bee Bombus lucorum, which exists in sympatry with B. terrestris in multi‐species assemblages, and their generalist micosporidian parasite Nosema bombi, we tested whether the apparent paradox of parasite maintenance due to parasite virulence in a single host, B. terrestris, could be resolved through understanding the parasite's virulence in this sympatric host species. Nosema bombi significantly impacted colony growth, individual longevity, and individual development in B. lucorum. However, these effects were different both qualitatively and quantitatively to the parasite's impact in B. terrestris. Infected colonies of B. lucorum successfully produced both male and female reproductives, and infected female reproductives were capable of successful mating. Variation in life‐history across host species may explain differences in the virulence, or impact of the parasite in B. terrestris and B. lucorum, with species with shorter life‐cycles being more likely to transfer the parasite from one annual generation to the next. These results suggest that to understand the virulence and epidemiology of multi‐host parasites we need to examine their ecological interactions across their various host species.
The Single ENTH‐Domain Protein of Trypanosomes; Endocytic Functions and Evolutionary Relationship with Epsin
Authors: Gabernet‐Castello Carme , Dacks Joel B. , Field Mark C.
Published: March 2009

Epsin N‐terminal homology (ENTH) domains occur in proteins of either the epsin or epsin‐related (epsinR) form. They principally function in clathrin‐mediated trafficking and membrane deformation. Both epsin and epsinR possess clathrin‐binding motifs, but only epsin incorporates a ubiquitin‐interaction motif (UIM). To better understand the origins of ENTH‐domain proteins and their functions, we performed detailed comparative genomics and phylogenetics on the epsin family. The epsin ENTH‐UIM configuration is an architecture restricted to yeast and animals. Further, we undertook functional analysis in Trypanosoma brucei (T. brucei), a divergent organism possessing a single ENTH‐domain protein (TbEpsinR). TbEpsinR has a cellular location similar to both epsin and epsinR at plasma membrane clathrin budding sites and endosomal compartments, and associates with clathrin, as demonstrated by coimmunoprecipitation. Knockdown of TbEpsinR leads to a significant decrease in the intracellular pools of multiple surface antigens, without affecting bulk membrane internalization. Therefore, despite lacking the UIM, TbEpsinR maintains a similar role to metazoan epsin in endocytosis and participates as a clathrin‐associated adaptor. We suggest that recruitment of a UIM to the ENTH‐domain proteins was not essential for participation in endocytosis of ubiquitylated molecules, and is presumably a specific innovation restricted to higher eukaryotes.
Preparation of PZT Microtubes by Slip Casting on Vermicelli, Followed by In Situ Polymerization
Authors: Prabhakaran Kuttan , Raghunath Sooraj , Melkeri Anand , Jayasingh Moses Ebenezer , Durgaprasad Chadalapaka , Gokhale Nitin Madusudhan
Published: March 2009

Slip casting of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) slurries of higher solids loading (48.8–51.6 vol%) prepared in a urea–formaldehyde (UF) monomer solution on vermicelli of ∼1000 μm diameter has been studied to prepare PZT microtubes with a higher wall thickness (200–960 μm) in a lower dipping time (0.5–4.0 min) to facilitate faster production and lower failure during drying and vermicelli burnout. Polymerization of the UF monomer by exposing the PZT slurry‐coated vermicelli to HCl gas provides good strength and stability to the coating. The dielectric and piezoelectric properties of the microtubes compare well with the properties of PZT‐5H ceramic compositions.
SiOC Ceramic Monoliths with Hierarchical Porosity
Authors: Vakifahmetoglu Cekdar , Colombo Paolo , Pauletti Alberto , Martin Cristina Fernandez , Babonneau Florence
Published: March 2009

SiOC glass monoliths possessing hierarchical porosity were produced by a one‐pot processing method. Periodic mesoporous organosilica (PMO) particles were embedded into a foamed siloxane preceramic polymer. After pyrolysis at 1000°C in inert atmosphere, open celled, permeable SiOC ceramic monoliths with a high amount of pores, ranging in size from hundred of micrometers to a few nanometers, were obtained. The components possessed a specific surface area of 137 m2/g, indicating the retention of most of the mesopores after the pyrolytic conversion of the PMO precursor particles. These fillers converted to truncated rhombic dodecahedral SiOC mesoporous micron‐sized grains, homogeneously distributed throughout the SiOC cellular matrix. The produced porous ceramics possessed compression strength of about 1.7 MPa, which is adequate for their use in several engineering applications.
Phonetic differences between male and female speech
Authors: Simpson Adrian P.
Published: March 2009

The main phonetic differences between the speech of male and female speakers are described and explanations that have been offered to account for these differences are critically discussed.
Goal Direction and Effectiveness, Emotional Maturity, and Nuclear Family Functioning
Authors: Klever Phillip
Published: March 2009

Differentiation of self, a cornerstone concept in Bowen theory, has a profound influence over time on the functioning of the individual and his or her family unit. This 5‐year longitudinal study tested this hypothesis with 50 developing nuclear families. The dimensions of differentiation of self that were examined were goal direction and effectiveness and emotional maturity. A qualitative analysis of participants’ goals demonstrated that couples with higher functioning developing nuclear families, when compared with couples with lower functioning families, placed more emphasis on family goals, had more balance between family and personal goals, and pursued more goals over the 5 years. The quantitative analysis supported the hypothesis that goal effectiveness and emotional maturity influenced variation in nuclear family functioning. In addition, couple goal effectiveness and emotional maturity were associated with nuclear family functioning more strongly than individual goal effectiveness and emotional maturity were associated with individual functioning.
Development of microsatellite markers for Euchresta japonica and E. formosana (Leguminosae)
Authors: HAMA I. , SAITO Y. , UMEHARA C. , LIAN C. L. , IDE Y.
Published: March 2009

We isolated 13 microsatellite loci from Euchresta japonica, an endangered shrub species that grows in warm‐temperate forests in East Asia. Of these 13 loci, only one was codominant and polymorphic with five alleles. Cross‐species amplification in a related species, E. formosana, detected nine of these loci, all of which were codominant and polymorphic with 2 to 9 alleles. These markers will facilitate further studies on the genetic characteristics of these two Euchresta species.
Family portrait of Bacillus cereus and Bacillus weihenstephanensis cereulide‐producing strains
Authors: Hoton Florence M. , Fornelos Nadine , N'Guessan Elise , Hu Xiaomin , Swiecicka Izabela , Dierick Katelijne , Jääskeläinen Elina , Salkinoja‐Salonen Mirja , Mahillon Jacques
Published: March 2009

Two thousand Bacillus cereus sensu lato isolates from food and environmental matrices were screened by PCR for the presence of cereulide‐producing strains. This survey identified 73 potential emetic strains, most of which originated from non‐random food and clinical samplings. None of the 460 Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus mycoides and Bacillus pseudomycoides strains were PCR‐positive for the cereulide genetic determinants. The chromosomal and extrachromosomal gene pool diversity of a subset of 30 cereulide‐producing strains was then assessed using multilocus sequence typing, large plasmid gel electrophoresis and Southern blot hybridization. The strain toxicity on boar sperm and cereulide production were also analysed. The most striking observation was the identification of two distinct clusters of cereulide‐producing strains, with members of the second group (cluster II) identified as psychrotolerant B. weihenstephanensis able to grow at 8°C. Moreover, the location of the cereulide genetic determinants was shown to vary depending on the strain, indicating a probable genomic mobility.
A role for nuclear receptors in mammalian hibernation
Authors: Nelson Clark J. , Otis Jessica P. , Carey Hannah V.
Published: March 2009

Hibernation is one of the most dramatic examples of phenotypic plasticity in mammals. During periods of food shortage and/or reduced ambient temperatures hibernating mammals become heterothermic, allowing their body temperature to decrease while entering an energy‐conserving torpid state. In order to survive the multi‐month hibernation season many species engage in hyperphagy, dramatically increasing adipose stores prior to the onset of hibernation. Nuclear receptors are a superfamily of transcription factors many of which bind lipophilic molecules as ligands. They regulate a variety of processes including energy homeostasis, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, inflammation and circadian rhythm. Given that lipids are integral in the hibernation phenotype they may play important regulatory roles through their interactions with nuclear receptors. Here we review current knowledge and suggest possible roles in mammalian hibernation for peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs), farnesoid X receptors (FXRs), liver X receptors (LXRs), retinoid‐related orphan receptors (RORs) and Rev‐ERBs.
Myocardial glucose and lactate metabolism during rest and atrial pacing in humans
Authors: Bergman Bryan C. , Tsvetkova Tatiana , Lowes Brian , Wolfel Eugene E.
Published: March 2009

There is minimal in vivo data in humans evaluating myocardial substrate utilization during increased heart work. This study was performed to determine the balance of myocardial glucose and lactate metabolism during rest and increased heart work induced by atrial pacing in seven healthy men and women (age, 49.7 ± 3.9 years; body mass index, 23.4 ± 1.1 kg m−2, maximum oxygen consumption, 35.5 ± 3.0 ml kg−1 min−1, ejection fraction, 68 ± 3%). After 3 days of dietary control, catheters were placed in coronary sinus, femoral arterial and venous, and peripheral venous blood vessels. Subjects received a primed continuous infusion of [3,3,3‐2H]lactate and [6,6‐2H]glucose throughout the study. Arterial and coronary sinus blood sampling and measurements of coronary sinus blood flow were made during rest and atrial pacing at approximately 111 beats min–1. Myocardial oxygen consumption increased (P= 0.04) from rest to atrial pacing. Net glucose uptake increased (P= 0.04) from rest to atrial pacing with unchanged fractional extraction (rest: 9.1 ± 2.7%, atrial pacing 9.8 ± 2.9%). The percentage of whole body glucose disposal from myocardial uptake also increased from rest to atrial pacing. Isotopically measured lactate uptake also increased significantly from rest to atrial pacing with no significant differences in fractional extraction. The myocardium released lactate throughout the experiment, which increased significantly from rest and atrial pacing (P < 0.05). The heart accounted for a significantly greater percentage of whole body lactate disposal during atrial pacing (15.0 ± 4.4%) compared to rest (4.9 ± 0.9%, P= 0.03). These data suggest: (1) in the absence of ischaemia the myocardium is constantly taking up and releasing lactate at rest which increases during atrial pacing, and (2) when arterial substrate delivery is unchanged, increased myocardial work is accomplished with similar proportions of glucose and lactate utilization in healthy humans in vivo.
Functional KATP channels in the rat retinal microvasculature: topographical distribution, redox regulation, spermine modulation and diabetic alteration
Authors: Ishizaki Eisuke , Fukumoto Masanori , Puro Donald G.
Published: March 2009

The essential task of the circulatory system is to match blood flow to local metabolic demand. However, much remains to be learned about this process. To better understand how local perfusion is regulated, we focused on the functional organization of the retinal microvasculature, which is particularly well adapted for the local control of perfusion. Here, we assessed the distribution and regulation of functional KATP channels whose activation mediates the hyperpolarization induced by adenosine. Using microvascular complexes freshly isolated from the rat retina, we found a topographical heterogeneity in the distribution of functional KATP channels; capillaries generate most of the KATP current. The initiation of KATP‐induced responses in the capillaries supports the concept that the regulation of retinal perfusion is highly decentralized. Additional study revealed that microvascular KATP channels are redox sensitive, with oxidants increasing their activity. Furthermore, the oxidant‐mediated activation of these channels is driven by the polyamine spermine, whose catabolism produces oxidants. In addition, our observation that spermine‐dependent oxidation occurs predominately in the capillaries accounts for why they generate most of the KATP current detected in retinal microvascular complexes. Here, we also analysed retinal microvessels of streptozotocin‐injected rats. We found that soon after the onset of diabetes, an increase in spermine‐dependent oxidation at proximal microvascular sites boosts their KATP current and thereby virtually eliminates the topographical heterogeneity of functional KATP channels. We conclude that spermine‐dependent oxidation is a previously unrecognized mechanism by which this polyamine modulates ion channels; in addition to a physiological role, spermine‐dependent oxidation may also contribute to microvascular dysfunction in the diabetic retina.
Development of an Automated Steering Mechanism for Bladder Urothelium Surveillance
Authors: Yoon W. Jong , Park Sangtae , Reinhall Per G. , Seibel Eric J.
Published: March 2009

Given the advantages of cystoscopic exams compared with other procedures available for bladder surveillance, it would be beneficial to develop an improved automated cystoscope. We develop and propose an active programmable remote steering mechanism and an efficient motion sequence for bladder cancer detection and postoperative surveillance. The continuous and optimal path of the imaging probe can enable a medical practitioner to readily ensure that images are produced for the entire surface of the bladder in a controlled and uniform manner. Shape memory alloy (SMA) based segmented actuators disposed adjacent to the distal end of the imaging probe are selectively activated to bend the shaft to assist in positioning and orienting the imaging probe at a plurality of points selected to image all the interior of the distended bladder volume. The bending arc, insertion depth, and rotational position of the imaging probe are automatically controlled based on patient-specific data. The initial prototype is tested on a 3D plastic phantom bladder, which is used as a proof-of-concept in vitro model and an electromagnetic motion tracker. The 3D tracked tip trajectory results ensure that the motion sequencing program and the steering mechanism efficiently move the image probe to scan the entire inner tissue layer of the bladder. The compared experimental results shows 5.1% tip positioning error to the designed trajectory given by the simulation tool. The authors believe that further development of this concept will help guarantee that a tumor or other characteristic of the bladder surface is not overlooked during the automated cystoscopic procedure due to a failure to image it.
Automating Skeletal Expansion: An Implant for Distraction Osteogenesis of the Mandible
Authors: Magill John C. , Byl Marten F. , Goldwaser Batya , Papadaki Maria , Kromann Roger , Yates Brent , Morency Joseph R. , Kaban Leonard B. , Troulis Maria J.
Published: March 2009

Distraction osteogenesis is a technique of bone lengthening that makes use of the body’s natural healing capacity. An osteotomy is created, and a rigid distraction device is attached to the bone. After a latency period, the device is activated two to four times per day for a total of 1 mm/day of bone lengthening. This technique is used to correct a variety of congenital and acquired deformities of the mandible, midface, and long bones. To shorten the treatment period and to eliminate the complications of patient activation of the device, an automated continuous distraction device would be desirable. It has been reported that continuous distraction generates adequate bone with lengthening at a rate of 2 mm/day, thereby reducing the treatment time. The device we describe here uses miniature high-pressure hydraulics, position feedback, and a digital controller to achieve closed-loop control of the distraction process. The implanted actuator can produce up to 40 N of distraction force on linear trajectories as well as curved distraction paths. In this paper we detail the spring-powered hydraulic reservoir, controller, and user interface. Experiments to test the new device design were performed in a porcine cadaver head and in live pigs. In the cadaver head, the device performed an 11 day/11 mm distraction with a root-mean-squared position error of 0.09 mm. The device functioned for periods of several days in each of five live animals, though some component failures occurred, leading to design revisions. The test series showed that the novel design of this system provides the capabilities necessary to automate distraction of the mandible. Further developments will focus on making the implanted position sensor more robust and then on carrying out clinical trials.
Genetic Determinants of Resistance to Fusidic Acid among Clinical Bacteremia Isolates of
Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Lannergård Jonas , Norström Tobias , Hughes Diarmaid
Published: March 2009

Resistance to fusidic acid in
Staphylococcus aureus
is caused by mutation of the elongation factor G (EF-G) drug target (FusA class) or by expression of a protein that protects the drug target (FusB and FusC classes). Recently, two novel genetic classes of small-colony variants (SCVs) were identified among fusidic acid-resistant mutants selected in vitro (FusA-SCV and FusE classes). We analyzed a phylogenetically diverse collection of fusidic acid-resistant bacteremia isolates to determine which resistance classes were prevalent and whether these were associated with particular phylogenetic lineages. Each isolate was shown by DNA sequencing and plasmid curing to carry only one determinant of fusidic acid resistance, with approximately equal frequencies of the FusA, FusB, and FusC genetic classes. The FusA class (mutations in
fusA
) were distributed among different phylogenetic types. Two distinct variants of the FusC class (chromosomal
fusC
gene) were identified, and FusC was also distributed among different phylogenetic types. In contrast, the FusB class (carrying
fusB
on a plasmid) was found in closely related types. No FusE-class mutants (carrying mutations in
rplF
) were found. However, one FusA-class isolate had multiple mutations in the
fusA
gene, including one altering a codon associated with the FusA-SCV class. SCVs are frequently unstable and may undergo compensatory evolution to a normal growth phenotype after their initial occurrence. Accordingly, this normal-growth isolate might have evolved from a fusidic acid-resistant SCV. We conclude that at least three different resistance classes are prevalent among fusidic acid-resistant bacteremia isolates of
S. aureus
.