bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Needleless Electrospinning of Polystyrene Fibers with an Oriented Surface Line Texture
Authors: Huang Chen , Niu Haitao , Wu Jinglei , Ke Qinfei , Mo Xiumei , Lin Tong
Published: May 2012

We have demonstrated that polystyrene (PS) nanofibers having an ordered surface line texture can be produced on a large scale from a PS solution of acetone and N,N′‐dimethylformamide (2/1, vol/vol) by a needleless electrospinning technique using a disc as fiber generator. The formation of the unusual surface feature was investigated and attributed to the voids formed on the surface of jets due to the fast evaporation of acetone at the early stage of electrospinning, and subsequent elongation and solidification turning the voids into ordered lines on fiber surface. In comparison with the nanofibers electrospun by a conventional needle electrospinning using the same solution, the disc electrospun fibers were finer with similar diameter distribution. The fiber production rate for the disc electrospinning was 62 times higher than that of the conventional electrospinning. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction measurements indicated that the PS nanofibers produced from the two electrospinning techniques showed no significant difference in chemical component, albeit slightly higher crystallinity in the disc spun nanofibers.
Three-Dimensional Complex Padé FD Migration: Splitting and Corrections
Authors: Mondini D. , Costa J. C. , Schleicher J. , Novais A.
Published: May 2012

Three-dimensional wave-equation migration techniques are still quite expensive because of the huge matrices that need to be inverted. Several techniques have been proposed to reduce this cost by splitting the full 3D problem into a sequence of 2D problems. To reduce errors, the Li correction is applied at regular multiples of depth extrapolation increment. We compare the performance of splitting techniques in wave propagation for 3D finite-difference (FD) migration in terms of image quality and computational cost. We study the behaviour of the complex Padé approximation in combination with two- and alternating four-way splitting, that is, splitting into the coordinate directions at one depth and the diagonal directions at the next depth level. We also extend the Li correction for use with the complex Padé expansion and diagonal directions. From numerical examples in inhomogeneous media, we conclude that alternate four-way splitting is the most cost-effective strategy to reduce numerical anisotropy in complex Padé 3D FD migration.
Budding of Enveloped Viruses: Interferon-Induced ISG15—Antivirus Mechanisms Targeting the Release Process
Authors: Seo Eun Joo , Leis Jonathan
Published: May 2012

Pathogenic strains of viruses that infect humans are encapsulated in membranes derived from the host cell in which they infect. After replication, these viruses are released by a budding process that requires cell/viral membrane scission. As such, this represents a natural target for innate immunity mechanisms to interdict enveloped virus spread and recent advances in this field will be the subject of this paper.
Cinchonine Prevents High-Fat-Diet-Induced Obesity through Downregulation of Adipogenesis and Adipose Inflammation
Authors: Jung Sung A. , Choi Miseon , Kim Sohee , Yu Rina , Park Taesun
Published: May 2012

Cinchonine (C19H22N2O) is a natural compound of Cinchona bark. Although cinchonine's antiplatelet effect has been reported in the previous study, antiobesity effect of cinchonine has never been studied. The main objective of this study was to investigate whether cinchonine reduces high-fat-diet- (HFD-) induced adipogenesis and inflammation in the epididymal fat tissues of mice and to explore the underlying mechanisms involved in these reductions. HFD-fed mice treated with 0.05% dietary cinchonine for 10 weeks had reduced body weight gain (−38%), visceral fat-pad weights (−26%), and plasma levels of triglyceride, free fatty acids, total cholesterol, and glucose compared with mice fed with the HFD. Moreover, cinchonine significantly reversed HFD-induced downregulations of WNT10b and galanin-mediated signaling molecules and key adipogenic genes in the epididymal adipose tissues of mice. Cinchonine also attenuated the HFD-induced upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines by inhibiting toll-like-receptor-2- (TLR2-) and TLR4-mediated signaling cascades in the adipose tissue of mice. Our findings suggest that dietary cinchonine with its effects on adipogenesis and inflammation may have a potential benefit in preventing obesity.
Hybrid Experiential-Heuristic Cognitive Radio Engine Architecture and Implementation
Authors: Amanna Ashwin , Ali Daniel , Fitch David Gonzalez , Reed Jeffrey H.
Published: May 2012

The concept of cognitive radio (CR) focuses on devices that can sense their environment, adapt configuration parameters, and learn from past behaviors. Architectures tend towards simplified decision-making algorithms inspired by human cognition. Initial works defined cognitive engines (CEs) founded on heuristics, such as genetic algorithms (GAs), and case-based reasoning (CBR) experiential learning algorithms. This hybrid architecture enables both long-term learning, faster decisions based on past experience, and capability to still adapt to new environments. This paper details an autonomous implementation of a hybrid CBR-GA CE architecture on a universal serial radio peripheral (USRP) software-defined radio focused on link adaptation. Details include overall process flow, case base structure/retrieval method, estimation approach within the GA, and hardware-software lessons learned. Unique solutions to realizing the concept include mechanisms for combining vector distance and past fitness into an aggregate quantification of similarity. Over-the-air performance under several interference conditions is measured using signal-to-noise ratio, packet error rate, spectral efficiency, and throughput as observable metrics. Results indicate that the CE is successfully able to autonomously change transmit power, modulation/coding, and packet size to maintain the link while a non-cognitive approach loses connectivity. Solutions to existing shortcomings are proposed for improving case-base searching and performance estimation methods.
Two-Group Theory of the Feynman-Alpha Method for Reactivity Measurement in ADS
Authors: Pál Lénárd , Pázsit Imre
Published: May 2012

The theory of the Feynman-alpha method, which is used to determine the subcritical reactivity of systems driven by an external source such as an ADS, is extended to two energy groups with the inclusion of delayed neutrons. This paper presents a full derivation of the variance to mean formula with the inclusion of two energy groups and delayed neutrons. The results are illustrated quantitatively and discussed in physical terms.
Proline Rich Motifs as Drug Targets in Immune Mediated Disorders
Authors: Srinivasan Mythily , Dunker A. Keith
Published: May 2012

The current version of the human immunome network consists of nearly 1400 interactions involving approximately 600 proteins. Intermolecular interactions mediated by proline-rich motifs (PRMs) are observed in many facets of the immune response. The proline-rich regions are known to preferentially adopt a polyproline type II helical conformation, an extended structure that facilitates transient intermolecular interactions such as signal transduction, antigen recognition, cell-cell communication and cytoskeletal organization. The propensity of both the side chain and the backbone carbonyls of the polyproline type II helix to participate in the interface interaction makes it an excellent recognition motif. An advantage of such distinct chemical features is that the interactions can be discriminatory even in the absence of high affinities. Indeed, the immune response is mediated by well-orchestrated low-affinity short-duration intermolecular interactions. The proline-rich regions are predominantly localized in the solvent-exposed regions such as the loops, intrinsically disordered regions, or between domains that constitute the intermolecular interface. Peptide mimics of the PRM have been suggested as potential antagonists of intermolecular interactions. In this paper, we discuss novel PRM-mediated interactions in the human immunome that potentially serve as attractive targets for immunomodulation and drug development for inflammatory and autoimmune pathologies.
Early Decrease in Respiration and Uncoupling Event Independent of CytochromecRelease in PC12 Cells Undergoing Apoptosis
Authors: Berghella Libera , Ferraro Elisabetta
Published: May 2012

Cytochromecis a key molecule in mitochondria-mediated apoptosis. It also plays a pivotal role in cell respiration. The switch between these two functions occurs at the moment of its release from mitochondria. This process is therefore extremely relevant for the fate of the cell. Since cytochromecmediates respiration, we studied the changes in respiratory chain activity during the early stages of apoptosis in order to contribute to unravel the mechanisms of cytochromecrelease. We found that, during staurosporine (STS)- induced apoptosis in PC12 cells, respiration is affected before the release of cytochromec, as shown by a decrease in the endogenous uncoupled respiration and an uncoupling event, both occurring independently of cytochromecrelease. The decline in the uncoupled respiration occurs also upon Bcl-2 overexpression (which inhibits cytochromecrelease), while the uncoupling event is inhibited by Bcl-2. We also observed that the first stage of nuclear condensation during STS-induced apoptosis does not depend on the release of cytochromecinto the cytosol and is a reversibile event. These findings may contribute to understand the mechanisms affecting mitochondria during the early stages of apoptosis and priming them for the release of apoptogenic factors.
Meta-Analysis of Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes Associated with the Use of Insulin Glargine versus NPH Insulin during Pregnancy
Authors: Lepercq Jacques , Lin Jay , Hall Gillian C. , Wang Edward , Dain Marie-Paule , Riddle Matthew C. , Home Philip D.
Published: May 2012

As glargine, an analog of human insulin, is increasingly used during pregnancy, a meta-analysis assessed its safety in this population. A systematic literature search identified studies of gestational or pregestational diabetes comparing use of insulin glargine with human NPH insulin, with at least 15 women in both arms. Data was extracted for maternal outcomes (weight at delivery, weight gain, 1st/3rd trimesterHbA1c, severe hypoglycemia, gestation/new-onset hypertension, preeclampsia, and cesarean section) and neonatal outcomes (congenital malformations, gestational age at delivery, birth weight, macrosomia, LGA, 5 minute Apgar score>7, NICU admissions, respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal hypoglycemia, and hyperbilirubinemia). Relative risk ratios and weighted mean differences were determined using a random effect model. Eight studies of women using glargine (331) or NPH (371) were analyzed. No significant differences in the efficacy and safety-related outcomes were found between glargine and NPH use during pregnancy.
Safety of Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Clinical Application
Authors: Wang Youwei , Han Zhi-bo , Song Yong-ping , Han Zhong Chao
Published: May 2012

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) hold great promise as therapeutic agents in regenerative medicine and autoimmune diseases, based on their differentiation abilities and immunosuppressive properties. However, the therapeutic applications raise a series of questions about the safety of culture-expanded MSCs for human use. This paper summarized recent findings about safety issues of MSCs, in particular their genetic stability in long-termin vitroexpansion, their cryopreservation, banking, and the role of serum in the preparation of MSCs.
Population Structure ofMycosphaerella graminicolaand Location of Genes for Resistance to the Pathogen: Recent Advances in Argentina
Authors: Simón María Rosa , Cordo Cristina A. , Castillo Nadia S. , Struik Paul C. , Börner Andreas
Published: May 2012

Leaf blotch of wheat (Septoria triticiRob. ex Desm., teleomorphMycosphaerella graminicola(Fückel) Schröt. in Cohn) causes significant losses in wheat. During the last decades studies about the genetic variability of the pathogen and location of the resistance have been intensive around the world. The knowledge about the genetic variation ofM. graminicolais very important because it could allow us to determine which genotypes predominate within a geographic area. It also can be used to evaluate the germplasm resistance of wheat cultivars with isolates with high genetic differences. In addition, the knowledge of the genes conditioning resistance in different genotypes allows getting precise combination in new germplasm. The incorporation of the known genes in new cultivars could contribute to broadening the resistance to the pathogen. A paper about genetic variability of the pathogen and location of the resistance, with special emphasis in the work carried out in Argentina, is presented.
Regulation of Pancreatic microRNA-7 Expression
Authors: Kredo-Russo Sharon , Ness Avital , Mandelbaum Amitai D. , Walker Michael D. , Hornstein Eran
Published: May 2012

Genome-encoded microRNAs (miRNAs) provide a posttranscriptional regulatory layer, which is important for pancreas development. Differentiation of endocrine cells is controlled by a network of pancreatic transcription factors including Ngn3 and NeuroD/Beta2. However, how specific miRNAs are intertwined into this transcriptional network is not well understood. Here, we characterize the regulation of microRNA-7 (miR-7) by endocrine-specific transcription factors. Our data reveal that three independent miR-7 genes are coexpressed in the pancreas. We have identified conserved blocks upstream of pre-miR-7a-2 and pre-miR-7b and demonstrated by functional assays that they possess promoter activity, which is increased by the expression of NeuroD/Beta2. These data suggest that the endocrine specificity of miR-7 expression is governed by transcriptional mechanisms and involves members of the pancreatic endocrine network of transcription factors.
Wherefore Art Thou, Homeo(stasis)? Functional Diversity in Homeostatic Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Queenan Bridget N. , Lee Kea Joo , Pak Daniel T. S.
Published: May 2012

Homeostatic plasticity has emerged as a fundamental regulatory principle that strives to maintain neuronal activity within optimal ranges by altering diverse aspects of neuronal function. Adaptation to network activity is often viewed as an essential negative feedback restraint that prevents runaway excitation or inhibition. However, the precise importance of these homeostatic functions is often theoretical rather than empirically derived. Moreover, a remarkable multiplicity of homeostatic adaptations has been observed. To clarify these issues, it may prove useful to ask: why do homeostatic mechanisms exist, what advantages do these adaptive responses confer on a given cell population, and why are there so many seemingly divergent effects? Here, we approach these questions by applying the principles of control theory to homeostatic synaptic plasticity of mammalian neurons and suggest that the varied responses observed may represent distinct functional classes of control mechanisms directed toward disparate physiological goals.
Design and Implementation of a Cyber Physical System for Building Smart Living Spaces
Authors: Bai Zhi-yong , Huang Xin-yuan
Published: May 2012

Recently, the integrated control systems with computing, Internet, and the electronic equipment with embedded sensors or identification device, called Cyber Physical Systems (CPSs), have gradually attracted more and more attention in a variety of different areas. It is efficient to manage, control, monitor, and query on machinery, equipment, and personnel state. Based on the CPS technology, creating smart living space becomes an important trend of future development. However, the electronic devices nowadays execute different communication protocols, such as Bluetooth, Zigbee, RF, and infrared, and even some traditional devices have no communication function. As a result, the real-time information and status of devices in smart spaces could not be effectively integrated, and thus will increase the difficulties to establish smart living space with CPSs. To improve this problem, this paper designs and implements an Intelligent Control Box to convert different wireless signals. The developed Intelligent Control Box can be treated as a multiple control platform which integrates the systems of lighting, air conditioning, access control, video surveillance, alarm, and so on, further decreasing the difficulties in establishing smart living space with CPSs.
Polydentate Schiff Base Ligands and Their La(III) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, Antibacterial, Thermal, and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Şabik Ali E. , Karabörk Muharrem , Ceyhan Gökhan , Tümer Mehmet , Dığrak Metin
Published: May 2012

We synthesized the Schiff base ligands H2L1–H2L4 and their La(III) complexes and characterized them by the analytical and spectroscopic methods. We investigated their electrochemical and antimicrobial activity properties. The electrochemical properties of the ligands H2L1–H2L4 and their La(III) complexes were studied at the different scan rates (100 and 200 mV), different pH ranges (), and in the different solvents. The electrooxidation of the Schiff base ligands involves a reversible transfer of two electrons and two protons in solutions of pH up to 5.5, in agreement with the one-step two-electron mechanism. In solutions of pH higher than 5.5, the process of electrooxidation reaction of the Schiff base ligands and their La(III) complexes follows an ECi mechanism. The antimicrobial activities of the ligands and their complexes were studied. The thermal properties of the metal complexes were studied under nitrogen atmosphere in the range of temperature 20–1000°C.
A Selective Ink Deposition Method for the Cost-Performance Optimization of Inkjet-Printed UHF RFID Tag Antennas
Authors: Virtanen J. , Virkki J. , Elsherbeni A. Z. , Sydänheimo L. , Ukkonen L.
Published: May 2012

A selective ink deposition method is proposed for fabricating inkjet-printed passive UHF RFID tag antennas with optimized cost-performance ratios. The deposition method is based on identifying areas with high surface current densities on a given tag antenna and applying additional silver nanoparticle ink onto such areas to increase tag read range. In this paper, the proposed method is experimentally verified by utilizing the method on a small dipole tag antenna. Several ink deposition schemes are created, and their read range performances and ink consumptions are presented.
Measurement of Intervertebral Motion Using Quantitative Fluoroscopy: Report of an International Forum and Proposal for Use in the Assessment of Degenerative Disc Disease in the Lumbar Spine
Authors: Breen Alan C. , Teyhen Deydre S. , Mellor Fiona E. , Breen Alexander C. , Wong Kris W. N. , Deitz Adam
Published: May 2012

Quantitative fluoroscopy (QF) is an emerging technology for measuring intervertebral motion patterns to investigate problem back pain and degenerative disc disease. This International Forum was a networking event of three research groups (UK, US, Hong Kong), over three days in San Francisco in August 2009. Its aim was to reach a consensus on how best to record, analyse, and communicate QF information for research and clinical purposes. The Forum recommended that images should be acquired during regular trunk motion that is controlled for velocity and range, in order to minimise externally imposed variability as well as to correlate intervertebral motion with trunk motion. This should be done in both the recumbent passive and weight bearing active patient configurations. The main recommended outputs from QF were the true ranges of intervertebral rotation and translation, neutral zone laxity and the consistency of shape of the motion patterns. The main clinical research priority should initially be to investigate the possibility of mechanical subgroups of patients with chronic, nonspecific low back pain by comparing their intervertebral motion patterns with those of matched healthy controls.
Observer‐Based Mixed ℋ2/ℋ∞ Tracking Control for Continuous‐Time Systems with Integral Action and Pole Placement
Authors: Li Huxiong
Published: May 2012

The tracking problem for continuous‐time systems is investigated. It is assumed that the states
of the systems are not available. An observer is firstly designed to estimate the states by using the ℋ∞ method.
The control action is consist of a state‐feedback control, an integral component, and a feedforward loop. The
linear‐matrix‐inequality region is used to constrain the eigenvalue location for the closed‐loop systems. The control
gains can be obtained by solving a sequence of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs) which can guarantee the mixed
ℋ2/ℋ∞ performance for the closed‐loop systems.
PP/MMT Nanocomposite: Mathematic Modelling of Layered Nanofiller
Authors: Merinska Dagmar , Mikula Jaroslav , Kubisova Hana , Svoboda Petr
Published: May 2012

The comparison of calculated data from proposed mathematic model and experimentally obtained data of PP/clay nanocomposites was done with the focus on the layered shape of MMT platelets. Based on the well‐known Kerner′s model and the Halpin‐Tsai′ equation with the use of some described presumption, the mathematic model for PP/clay nanocomposite was proposed. Data from the measurement of prepared PP/clay samples were taken and compared with the calculated ones from the proposed model. The good agreement was found.
The Size and Shape Dependence of Ferromagnetism in Nanomagnets
Authors: Li Ying , Li Yongfeng , Wang Tianxing
Published: May 2012

The size and shape dependence of dynamic behaviors of nanomagnets is studied by the kinetic Monte Carlo method based on the transition state theory. We analyze the hysteresis curves of the nanomagnet systems with different shapes (or spin array patterns) in the presence of an external magnetic field. The results show that the magnetization of the chain‐shaped nanomagnet is more sensitive to the applied field than that of the oblong‐shaped or bulk‐shaped systems. For the same magnetic nanostructure, the coercive field presents an exponential decay with temperature. Moreover, the coercive field is found to be strongly dependent on the effective coordination number, which has different values corresponding to those systems of different size and shapes (spin array patterns).
The Antioxidant Mechanisms Underlying the Aged Garlic Extract- and S-Allylcysteine-Induced Protection
Authors: Colín-González Ana L. , Santana Ricardo A. , Silva-Islas Carlos A. , Chánez-Cárdenas Maria E. , Santamaría Abel , Maldonado Perla D.
Published: May 2012

Aged garlic extract (AGE) is an odorless garlic preparation containing S-allylcysteine (SAC) as its most abundant compound. A large number of studies have demonstrated the antioxidant activity of AGE and SAC in bothin vivo—in diverse experimental animal models associated to oxidative stress—andin vitroconditions—using several methods to scavenge reactive oxygen species or to induce oxidative damage. Derived from these experiments, the protective effects of AGE and SAC have been associated with the prevention or amelioration of oxidative stress. In this work, we reviewed different antioxidant mechanisms (scavenging of free radicals and prooxidant species, induction of antioxidant enzymes, activation of Nrf2 factor, inhibition of prooxidant enzymes, and chelating effects) involved in the protective actions of AGE and SAC, thereby emphasizing their potential use as therapeutic agents. In addition, we highlight the ability of SAC to activate Nrf2 factor—a master regulator of the cellular redox state. Here, we include original data showing the ability of SAC to activate Nrf2 factor in cerebral cortex. Therefore, we conclude that the therapeutic properties of these molecules comprise cellular and molecular mechanisms at different levels.
Cancer Angiogenesis Induced by Kaposi Sarcoma–Associated Herpesvirus Is Mediated by EZH2
Authors: He Meilan , Zhang Wei , Bakken Thomas , Schutten Melissa , Toth Zsolt , Jung Jae U. , Gill Parkash , Cannon Mark , Gao Shou-Jiang
Published: May 2012

EZH2 is a component of the epigenetic regulator PRC2 that suppresses gene expression. Elevated expression of EZH2 is common in human cancers and is associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis. In this study, we show that EZH2 elevation is associated with epigenetic modifications of Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV), an oncogenic virus that promotes the development of Kaposi sarcoma and other malignancies that occur in patients with chronic HIV infections. KSHV induction of EZH2 expression was essential for KSHV-induced angiogenesis. High expression of EZH2 was observed in Kaposi sarcoma tumors. In cell culture, latent KSHV infection upregulated the expression of EZH2 in human endothelial cells through the expression of vFLIP and LANA, two KSHV-latent genes that activate the NF-κB pathway. KSHV-mediated upregulation of EZH2 was required for the induction of Ephrin-B2, an essential proangiogenic factor that drives endothelial cell tubule formation. Taken together, our findings indicate that KSHV regulates the host epigenetic modifier EZH2 to promote angiogenesis. Cancer Res; 72(14); 3582–92. ©2012 AACR.
New Use for an Old Drug: Inhibiting ABCG2 with Sorafenib
Authors: Wei Yinxiang , Ma Yuanfang , Zhao Qing , Ren Zhiguang , Li Yan , Hou Tingjun , Peng Hui
Published: May 2012

Human ABCG2, a member of the ATP-binding cassette transporter superfamily, represents a promising target for sensitizing MDR in cancer chemotherapy. Although lots of ABCG2 inhibitors were identified, none of them has been tested clinically, maybe because of several problems such as toxicity or safety and pharmacokinetic uncertainty of compounds with novel chemical structures. One efficient solution is to rediscover new uses for existing drugs with known pharmacokinetics and safety profiles. Here, we found the new use for sorafenib, which has a dual-mode action by inducing ABCG2 degradation in lysosome in addition to inhibiting its function. Previously, we reported some novel dual-acting ABCG2 inhibitors that showed closer similarity to degradation-induced mechanism of action. On the basis of these ABCG2 inhibitors with diverse chemical structures, we developed a pharmacophore model for identifying the critical pharmacophore features necessary for dual-acting ABCG2 inhibitors. Sorafenib forms impressive alignment with the pharmacophore hypothesis, supporting the argument that sorafenib is a potential ABCG2 inhibitor. This is the first article that sorafenib may be a good candidate for chemosensitizing agent targeting ABCG2-mediated MDR. This study may facilitate the rediscovery of new functions of structurally diverse old drugs and provide a more effective and safe way of sensitizing MDR in cancer chemotherapy. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(8); 1693–702. ©2012 AACR.
Analysis of Gene Expression Regulated by the ETV5 Transcription Factor in OV90 Ovarian Cancer Cells Identifies FOXM1 Overexpression in Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Llauradó Marta , Majem Blanca , Castellví Josep , Cabrera Sílvia , Gil-Moreno Antonio , Reventós Jaume , Ruiz Anna
Published: May 2012

Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy and the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women in the Western world. ETS transcription factors have been implicated in the regulation of gene expression during a variety of biologic processes including cell growth and differentiation. We recently examined the role of the ETS transcription factor ETV5 in epithelial ovarian cancer and described ETV5 as being upregulated in ovarian tumor samples as compared with ovarian tissue controls. In ovarian cancer cells, we showed that ETV5 regulated the expression of cell adhesion molecules, enhancing ovarian cancer cell survival in anchorage-independent conditions and suggesting that it plays a role in ovarian cancer cell dissemination and metastasis into the peritoneal cavity. To understand the role of ETV5 transcription factor during ovarian cancer cell dissemination, we analyzed by gene expression microarray technology those genes whose expression was altered in an ovarian cancer cell line with a stable downregulation of ETV5. The analysis of the genes and signaling pathways under the control of ETV5 in OV90 cells has unraveled new signaling pathways that interact with ETV5, among them the cell-cycle progression and the TGFβ signaling pathway. In addition, we found that the downregulation of ETV5 reduced the expression of the oncogenic transcription factor FOXM1. Consistently, FOXM1 was overexpressed in ovarian tumor samples, and its transcriptional levels increased with ETV5 transcription in ovarian tumor samples. Moreover, FOXM1 expression levels increased with tumor grade, suggesting a role in the progression of ovarian cancer. Mol Cancer Res; 10(7); 914–24. ©2012 AACR.
Apolipoprotein B Secretory Regulation by Degradation
Authors: Olofsson Sven-Olof , Borén Jan
Published: May 2012

In this short review, we discuss apolipoprotein B100 and the assembly of very low-density lipoproteins. In particular, we address the nature and importance of co- and posttranslational degradation of apolipoprotein B100 during the assembly process. We also provide a short historical background to the development of the current model for the degradation of apolipoprotein B100.
Acute Hemodynamic Effect of Left Ventricular Endocardial Pacing in Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy
Authors: Padeletti Luigi , Pieragnoli Paolo , Ricciardi Giuseppe , Perrotta Laura , Grifoni Gino , Porciani Maria Cristina , Lionetti Vincenzo , Valsecchi Sergio
Published: May 2012

Background—

During cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device implantation, the pacing lead is usually positioned in the coronary sinus (CS) to stimulate the left ventricular (LV) epicardium. Transvenous LV endocardial pacing via transseptal puncture has been proposed as an alternative method. In the present study, we evaluated the acute hemodynamic effects of CRT through LV endocardial pacing in heart failure patients by analyzing LV pressure–volume relationships.

Methods and Results—

LV pressure and volume data were determined via conductance catheter during CRT device implantation in 10 patients. In addition to the standard epicardial CS pacing, the following endocardial LV sites were systematically assessed: the site transmural to the CS lead, the LV apex, the septal midwall, the basal lateral free wall, and the midlateral free wall. Four atrioventricular delays were tested. There was a significant improvement of systolic function with CRT in all LV pacing configurations, whereas no differences in systolic or diastolic function were detected between LV epicardial and endocardial transmural sites. The optimal pacing site varied among patients but was rarely related to relatively longer activation delays, as assessed by analyzing endocardial electric activation maps. Nonetheless, positioning the pacing lead at the optimal endocardial LV site in each patient significantly improved LV performance in comparison with conventional CS site stimulation (stroke volume, 83 [79–112] mL versus 73 [62–89] mL;
P
=0.034).

Conclusions—

Pacing at the optimal individual LV endocardial site yields enhanced LV performance in comparison with conventional CS site stimulation. Endocardial LV pacing might constitute an alternative approach to CRT, when CS pacing is not viable.
Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery Is Associated With Worse Arterial and Saphenous Vein Graft Patency and Less Effective Revascularization
Authors: Hattler Brack , Messenger John C. , Shroyer A. Laurie , Collins Joseph F. , Haugen Scott J. , Garcia Joel A. , Baltz Janet H. , Cleveland Joseph C. , Novitzky Dimitri , Grover Frederick L.
Published: May 2012

Background—

The Department of Veterans Affairs Randomized On/Off Bypass (ROOBY) trial compared clinical and angiographic outcomes in off-pump versus on-pump coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery to ascertain the relative efficacy of the 2 techniques.

Methods and Results—

From February 2002 to May 2007, the ROOBY trial randomized 2203 patients to off-pump versus on-pump CABG. Follow-up angiography was obtained in 685 off-pump (62%) and 685 on-pump (62%) patients. Angiograms were analyzed (blinded to treatment) for FitzGibbon classification (A=widely patent, B=flow limited, O=occluded) and effective revascularization. Effective revascularization was defined as follows: All 3 major coronary territories with significant disease were revascularized by a FitzGibbon A-quality graft to the major diseased artery, and there were no new postanastomotic lesions. Off-pump CABG resulted in lower FitzGibbon A patency rates than on-pump CABG for arterial conduits (85.8% versus 91.4%;
P
=0.003) and saphenous vein grafts (72.7% versus 80.4%;
P
<0.001). Fewer off-pump patients were effectively revascularized (50.1% versus 63.9% on-pump;
P
<0.001). Within each major coronary territory, effective revascularization was worse off pump than on pump (all
P
≤0.001). The 1-year adverse cardiac event rate was 16.4% in patients with ineffective revascularization versus 5.9% in patients with effective revascularization (
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Off-pump CABG resulted in significantly lower FitzGibbon A patency for arterial and saphenous vein graft conduits and less effective revascularization than on-pump CABG. At 1 year, patients with less effective revascularization had higher adverse event rates.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00032630.
Reduced Endoglin Activity Limits Cardiac Fibrosis and Improves Survival in Heart Failure
Authors: Kapur Navin K. , Wilson Szuhuei , Yunis Adil A. , Qiao Xiaoying , Mackey Emily , Paruchuri Vikram , Baker Corey , Aronovitz Mark J. , Karumanchi S. Ananth , Letarte Michelle , Kass David A. , Mendelsohn Michael E. , Karas Richard H.
Published: May 2012

Background—

Heart failure is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The ubiquitously expressed cytokine transforming growth factor-β1 (TGFβ1) promotes cardiac fibrosis, an important component of progressive heart failure. Membrane-associated endoglin is a coreceptor for TGFβ1 signaling and has been studied in vascular remodeling and preeclampsia. We hypothesized that reduced endoglin expression may limit cardiac fibrosis in heart failure.

Methods and Results—

We first report that endoglin expression is increased in the left ventricle of human subjects with heart failure and determined that endoglin is required for TGFβ1 signaling in human cardiac fibroblasts using neutralizing antibodies and an siRNA approach. We further identified that reduced endoglin expression attenuates cardiac fibrosis, preserves left ventricular function, and improves survival in a mouse model of pressure-overload–induced heart failure. Prior studies have shown that the extracellular domain of endoglin can be cleaved and released into the circulation as soluble endoglin, which disrupts TGFβ1 signaling in endothelium. We now demonstrate that soluble endoglin limits TGFβ1 signaling and type I collagen synthesis in cardiac fibroblasts and further show that soluble endoglin treatment attenuates cardiac fibrosis in an in vivo model of heart failure.

Conclusion—

Our results identify endoglin as a critical component of TGFβ1 signaling in the cardiac fibroblast and show that targeting endoglin attenuates cardiac fibrosis, thereby providing a potentially novel therapeutic approach for individuals with heart failure.
Multilabel Classification with Principal Label Space Transformation
Authors: Tai Farbound , Lin Hsuan-Tien
Published: May 2012

We consider a hypercube view to perceive the label space of multilabel classification problems geometrically. The view allows us not only to unify many existing multilabel classification approaches but also design a novel algorithm, principal label space transformation (PLST), that captures key correlations between labels before learning. The simple and efficient PLST relies on only singular value decomposition as the key step. We derive the theoretical guarantee of PLST and evaluate its empirical performance using real-world data sets. Experimental results demonstrate that PLST is faster than the traditional binary relevance approach and is superior to the modern compressive sensing approach in terms of both accuracy and efficiency.
We need health information too: A systematic review of studies examining the health information seeking and communication practices of sexual minority youth
Authors: Rose India D , Friedman Daniela B
Published: May 2012

Objective:

To systematically review literature focused on the health information seeking practices of sexual minority youth (SMY), those youth who identify as lesbian, gay or bisexual. The aims of this systematic literature review were to determine the health information seeking practices of SMY by: (1) identifying their commonly cited sources of health information; (2) examining barriers associated with accessing health information; and (3) identifying study methodologies used in research with SMY.

Method:

A systematic review of the health information seeking practices of SMY was conducted. Empirical studies published between 1990 and 2010 on the health information seeking and health communication practices of SMY were found using medical/health and sociology databases.

Results:

A total of 398 citations were retrieved from four databases using specific search terms. Nineteen articles met the inclusion criteria of: written in English; peer reviewed; original empirical study; and referenced search terms in title, abstract or keywords.

Conclusion:

Findings show inaccurate and limited health information targeted specifically toward SMY. Without culturally specific and accurate health information, it will be difficult for health educators and healthcare professionals to address the health concerns faced by this population.
BMP Activity Is Required for Tooth Development from the Lamina to Bud Stage
Authors: Wang Y. , Li L. , Zheng Y. , Yuan G. , Yang G. , He F. , Chen Y.
Published: May 2012

Several Bmp genes are expressed in the developing mouse tooth germ from the initiation to the late-differentiation stages, and play pivotal roles in multiple steps of tooth development. In this study, we investigated the requirement of BMP activity in early tooth development by transgenic overexpression of the extracellular BMP antagonist Noggin. We show that overexpression of Noggin in the dental epithelium at the tooth initiation stage arrests tooth development at the lamina/early-bud stage. This phenotype is coupled with a significantly reduced level of cell proliferation rate and a down-regulation of Cyclin-D1 expression, specifically in the dental epithelium. Despite unaltered expression of genes known to be implicated in early tooth development in the dental mesenchyme and dental epithelium of transgenic embryos, the expression of Pitx2, a molecular marker for the dental epithelium, became down-regulated, suggesting the loss of odontogenic fate in the transgenic dental epithelium. Our results reveal a novel role for BMP signaling in the progression of tooth development from the lamina stage to the bud stage by regulating cell proliferation and by maintaining odontogenic fate of the dental epithelium.
The Legacy of Cariologist Douglas Bratthall, an Inspired Scientist
Authors: Ericson D. , Carlsson P. , Songpaisan Y. , Ellen R.P.
Published: May 2012

Douglas Bratthall was an inspirational cariologist known for his playful curiosity, thoughtful inquisitiveness, incisive scholarship, and energetic leadership. He became a time, mind, and global traveler who viewed his career path as an exotic safari. This ‘Discovery!’ report identifies where his era’s burning issues have led and how they were shaped by his contributions.
Managing the Tensions of Essentialism: Purity and Impurity
Authors: Duschinsky Robbie , Lampitt Sue
Published: May 2012

This article proposes a new interpretation of Pierre Bourdieu, as a theorist of purity and impurity. Bourdieu’s writings indicate that through the adjudication of things or people as relatively impure or pure an image is constructed of their essential truth. Building from Bourdieu, we will show how themes of purity and impurity can be used to manage the tensions associated with attempts to impute an essence to human nature or to reality, ensuring that the moral and epistemological significance of complexity is masked. This is the reason why themes of purity and impurity so often attend polarized worldviews, and why they are frequently mobilized for justifying and operating biopolitical processes of social stratification and regulation.
‘Dressage Is Full of Queens!’ Masculinity, Sexuality and Equestrian Sport
Authors: Dashper Katherine
Published: May 2012

Attitudes towards sexuality are changing and levels of cultural homophobia decreasing, yet there remain very few openly gay men within sport. As a proving ground for heteromasculinity, sport has traditionally been a hostile environment for gay men. This article is based on an ethnographic study within a sporting subworld in which gay men do appear to be accepted: equestrian sport. Drawing on inclusive masculinity theory, equestrian sport is shown to offer an unusually tolerant environment for gay men in which heterosexual men of all ages demonstrate low levels of homophobia. Inclusive masculinity theory is a useful framework for exploring the changing nature of masculinities and this study demonstrates that gay men are becoming increasingly visible and accepted within once unreceptive locales, such as sport and rural communities. However, this more tolerant attitude is purchased at the expense of a subordinated feminine Other, perpetuating the dominance of men within competitive sport.
Proximal Determinants of Falls Risk Among Independent-Living Older Adults
Authors: Ellis Rebecca , Kosma Maria , Fabre Jennifer M. , Moore Delilah S. , Wood Robert H.
Published: May 2012

The purpose of this investigation was to determine associations among race, education, and income and falls risk scores from the Comprehensive Falls Risk Screening Instrument (CFRSI). Participants ( N = 626) were Black ( n = 318) and White ( n = 308) older adults ( M age = 72.62, SD = 9.31). The CFRSI assessed history, physical functioning, medication, vision, and home environment, and produced an average total falls risk score. A 3 (Income) × 3 (Education) × 2 (Race) MANCOVA showed main effects for income and race. Univariate tests revealed that low-income participants had greater scores for history, physical functioning, and total falls risk than high income participants. Similarly, Black participants had greater scores on history, physical functioning, medication, and total falls risk than White participants. Low income and Black race were associated with greater falls risk, and professionals should consider these disparities when designing community-based falls prevention programs.
Patients, Athletes, Freaks
Authors: Peers Danielle
Published: May 2012

In this article, the author analyzes the discursive shifts, continuities, and convergences from which Paralympic discourses, practices, subjects, and institutions have emerged. The author utilizes Foucauldian discourse analysis to interpret 14 texts about Paralympic history and to trace how dominant discourses of disability and physical activity have (in)formed Paralympism at four specific stages of its institutionalization. Contrary to popular assumptions about Paralympism’s progressive empowerment of those with disabilities, the author demonstrates how, in each of these historical stages, discourses from rehabilitation, mainstream sport, and the freak show have colluded in ways that serve to perpetuate, justify, and conceal the unequal relationships of power in and through which disability is enacted and experienced.
Break Points
Authors: Birrell Susan , McDonald Mary G.
Published: May 2012

This article explores intertextual representations of Billie Jean King, focusing on the announcement of her relationship with Marilyn Barnett in 1981 as a disruptive moment that occasioned remedial narrative work on King’s part. Media framing of the incident is examined through three mainstream newspapers, U.S. magazines, television interviews, and King’s autobiography. Analysis of the coverage reveals that at first glance King was quite successful in overcoming the potential rupture to her life story by controlling the narrative, for example, through the staging of a very public apology, relatively supportive public interviews, and the timely release of her second autobiography. Framing the analysis within the context of theories of intertextuality and narrative disruption, and heteronarrativity, we argue that King’s success came at the expense of a more radical statement regarding the fluidity of sexual desire.
A Comparison of Conversational Quality in Online and Face-to-Face First Encounters
Authors: Lipinski-Harten Maciek , Tafarodi Romin W.
Published: May 2012

Students encountering each other for the first time were asked to converse for 30 minutes either face-to-face or through online chat. Conversational quality was compared to examine the possibility that specific social differences in communicative style are reduced or erased in online chat. As expected, gender differences evident in face-to-face conversation were absent online. However, conversational differences between experienced and inexperienced online chat users were, on the whole, similar across conditions. More generally, online chat appeared to produce less sequential connectivity, greater self-focus, and less other-focus than did face-to-face conversation.
Developments in Health Communication in the 21st Century
Authors: Jones Liz , Watson Bernadette M.
Published: May 2012

In this article, five papers that formed the Special Issue for the fourth International Association of Language and Social Psychology Taskforce on health communication are revisited. Our starting point is Gallois’s epilogue and the six themes she identified from those papers. These themes are invoked to explore where health communication is moving in the 21st century. Burgeoning work on intergroup communication in this context, patient voice, minority groups, and the role of the carer are highlighted.
Joshua’s Jihad? A Reexamination of Religious Violence in the Christian and Islamic Traditions
Authors: Kuiper Matthew J.
Published: May 2012

Examples of scriptural and historic militancy in Christianity and Islam are frequently compared today without sufficient attention to the complexity of the subject within each tradition. Through an examination of relevant biblical and Qur’anic materials, and of episodes in later history, this article attempts a fresh examination of violence in the two traditions. It argues that the tensions in each tradition related to violence, while similar in some ways, are quite distinct in others. In light of this, thoughts are suggested on how each community may engage its respective tensions in order to work toward peace today.
Speaking of the Triune God: Christian Defence of the Trinity in the Early Islamic Period
Authors: Beaumont Mark
Published: May 2012

The arrival of Muslim rulers who were insistent on the unity of God among Christians who testified to the unity of God in His triune nature introduced a considerable challenge to those Christians who were in the ascendency throughout the Middle East. Now they were on the defensive, needing to stem the movement of members of their own community to Islam which would eventually lead to Muslims becoming the majority. In the period of gradual transfer from majority to minority status Christian theologians attempted both to make their faith in the Trinity intelligible to Muslim intellectuals with whom they debated, and to give reasons to Christians for holding firm to their faith. These theologians are hardly known to the global church of the 21st century and it is the purpose of this paper to make them come alive for Christians who are witnessing to their faith before Muslims in our time in the hope that a contemporary testimony to the Triune God can be encouraged.