bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Shipbuilder and the Supervisor—Partners in Naval Ship Construction
Authors: Caskey M. R. , Goddard C. H. , Roberts T. J.
Published: March 2009

A partnering concept, under which the government and a prime contractor work as a team to produce the best product at the lowest reasonable price, has emerged in high value contracts such as shipbuilding. The Strategic Sealift Program has successfully made the transition from an adversarial contract relationship to a partnership. Such partnerships benefit both the Navy and the Contractor.
Probing pressure, a highly undervalued unit of measure in periodontal probing: a systematic review on its effect on probing pocket depth
Authors: Larsen Christian , Barendregt Dick S. , Slot Dagmar E. , Van der Velden Ubele , Van der Weijden Fridus
Published: March 2009

Aim: To investigate the influence of probing pressure on the probing pocket depth (PPD) in diseased and healthy periodontal tissue conditions through a systematic review. In addition, to facilitate comparison of the study outcomes, an attempt was made to provide a correction factor that compensates for the different probing pressures used.

Material and Methods: The MEDLINE‐PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of controlled trails (Central) were searched up to June 2008 to indentify appropriate studies.

Results: The search yielded 3032 titles and abstracts. In total, five papers fulfilled the eligibility criteria. These studies provided data with probing pressures ranging from 51 to 995 N/cm2. For the evaluation of the results a distribution was made between diseased and healthy/treated sites. The incremental change in PPD in healthy/treated sites decreased as the pressure increased above 398 N/cm2. In diseased sites, this phenomenon was already present at pressures above 100 N/cm2. At healthy/treated sites, a mean increase of PPD of 0.002 mm per increase of 1 N/cm2 in probing pressure could be calculated whereas at diseased sites this value amounted to 0.004 mm.

Conclusion: The results show that with increasing probing pressure, the PPD increases. The dimensions of the increase are dependent on the periodontal tissue conditions.
Oral status and its association with general quality of life in older independent‐living south‐Brazilians
Authors: Hugo Fernando Neves , Hilgert Juliana Balbinot , Da Luz Rosário de Sousa Maria , Cury Jaime Aparecido
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  Background:  There are few studies assessing the importance of oral status, particularly tooth loss, edentulism and satisfaction with mastication, on the perception of quality of life (qol) in general. The objective of this study was to evaluate if oral status was associated with lower ratings in the WHO Quality of Life Questionnaire‐Brief Version (WHOQOL‐BREF) domains.

Methods:  In this cross‐sectional study, a random sample of 872 Southern‐Brazilians aged 60 years or more was evaluated using a structured questionnaire to assess sociodemographic data, qol (WHOQOL‐BREF), and depressive symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale). Oral examinations assessing the number of teeth and saliva flow were performed. Additionally, participants were asked to rate their satisfaction with the ability to chew. Correlates of poorer qol (i.e. values of the WHOQOL‐BREF ≤ median) were assessed by means of multivariate logistic regressions.

Results:  Poorer qol in the physical domain was associated with increasing age, income, living in rural areas, >2 chronic conditions, intake of medications, depressive symptoms, edentulism, and reporting difficulty for chewing food. Poorer qol in the psychological domain was associated with income, schooling, >2 chronic conditions, intake of medications, depressive symptoms, and difficulty for chewing. Poorer qol in the environment domain was associated with income, living in urban areas, depressive symptoms, and difficulty for chewing. Poorer qol in the social relations domain was associated with living in urban areas, depressive symptoms, and difficulty for chewing.

Conclusion:  In the studied population, oral status was associated with the perception of quality of life in general.
Lipophilic prodrugs of amino acids and vitamin E as osmolytes for the compensation of hyperosmotic stress in human keratinocytes
Authors: Graf Rüdiger , Kock Michael , Bock Andreas , Schubert‐Zsilavecz Manfred , Steinhilber Dieter , Kaufmann Roland , Gassenmeier Thomas , Beschmann Heike , Bernd August , Kippenberger Stefan
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Skin keratinocytes are subjected to changing osmotic conditions and evolved counteracting mechanisms. Particularly, the expression of osmolyte transporters serves for the maintenance of cell volume in a hypertonic environment. In this study, we show that hyperosmotic stress significantly decreases the proliferation in HaCaT keratinocytes. Supplementation of the culture medium with the amino acids glycine, sarcosine, betaine, taurine and proline restored the proliferation indicating osmoprotective properties of these substances. Amino acids are highly polar molecules and therefore unable to penetrate into deeper epidermal layers after topical application. Thus, we utilized a prodrug concept in which the tested amino acids are coupled to a lipophilic moiety. Ethyl glycinate as a first model compound also showed an osmoprotective effect. In addition, improved penetration of the glycine derivative into deeper epidermal layers could be demonstrated. The prodrug concept was further developed by using the lipid soluble antioxidant α‐tocopherol as a lipophilic moiety. The derivatives d,l‐α‐tocopheryl‐(mono‐) glycinate (TMG) and d,l‐α‐tocopheryl‐(mono‐) prolinate caused an increase in proliferation of HaCaT keratinocytes under salt stress and a decrease in apoptosis induced by hypertonic conditions. Furthermore, the osmoprotective effect of d,l‐TMG could be corroborated in normal human keratinocytes. Therefore, it seems feasible that amino acids and their lipophilic derivatives may help to improve the osmotic balance and the hydration of skin. Clinical and cosmetic indications such as atopic eczema, UV exposed skin or aged skin may benefit from this new concept.
UVB upregulates the bax promoter in immortalized human keratinocytes via ROS induction of Id3
Authors: Trabosh Valerie Anne , Daher Ahmad , Divito Kyle A. , Amin Karishma , Simbulan‐Rosenthal Cynthia M. , Rosenthal Dean S.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Id3 belongs to the inhibitor of differentiation family of helix‐loop‐helix transcription factors, important in proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. We showed that Id3, but not Id2 or Id1, mediates the UVB‐sensitization of immortalized keratinocytes by inducing caspase 9‐dependent apoptosis. In this study, quantitative PCR analysis revealed a time‐dependent increase in Id3 mRNA induced by UVB, dependent on reactive oxygen species. UVB upregulated promoter activity of Id3, but not Id2, at early time points, as shown by reporter assays and also stabilized Id3 mRNA, increasing its half‐life from 10 to ∼60 min. We next examined downstream events related to UVB‐induced Id3 upregulation and investigated the effects of UVB or ectopic expression of Id3 on bax promoter activity. Regulatory elements in the bax promoter that mediate transcriptional activation by UVB and Id3, in the absence of p53, were identified. Bax promoter deletion analysis revealed that transcriptional activation by UVB involves a 738‐bp region upstream from the transcription start site of bax. Mimicking the effects of UVB, ectopic expression of Id3 also upregulated bax mRNA and activated this 738‐bp fragment. Mutational analysis of the transcription binding sites further showed that point mutations of the E‐box region found in the 738‐bp fragment, but not in a 174‐bp fragment, completely abolished Id3‐ and UVB‐inducible bax promoter activity, thus confirming the importance of Id3 and UVB‐mediated Id3 upregulation in activating the bax promoter. These results suggest a mechanism whereby reactive oxygen species upregulation of Id3 relieves repression of bax via E‐box‐binding factors.
Ion‐binding properties of Calnuc, Ca2+ versus Mg2+– Calnuc adopts additional and unusual Ca2+‐binding sites upon interaction with G‐protein
Authors: Kanuru Madhavi , Samuel Jebakumar J. , Balivada Lavanya M. , Aradhyam Gopala K.
Published: March 2009

Calnuc is a novel, highly modular, EF‐hand containing, Ca2+‐binding, Golgi resident protein whose functions are not clear. Using amino acid sequences, we demonstrate that Calnuc is a highly conserved protein among various organisms, from Ciona intestinalis to humans. Maximum homology among all sequences is found in the region that binds to G‐proteins. In humans, it is known to be expressed in a variety of tissues, and it interacts with several important protein partners. Among other proteins, Calnuc is known to interact with heterotrimeric G‐proteins, specifically with the α‐subunit. Herein, we report the structural implications of Ca2+ and Mg2+ binding, and illustrate that Calnuc functions as a downstream effector for G‐protein α‐subunit. Our results show that Ca2+ binds with an affinity of 7 μm and causes structural changes. Although Mg2+ binds to Calnuc with very weak affinity, the structural changes that it causes are further enhanced by Ca2+ binding. Furthermore, isothermal titration calorimetry results show that Calnuc and the G‐protein bind with an affinity of 13 nm. We also predict a probable function for Calnuc, that of maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis in the cell. Using Stains‐all and terbium as Ca2+ mimic probes, we demonstrate that the Ca2+‐binding ability of Calnuc is governed by the activity‐based conformational state of the G‐protein. We propose that Calnuc adopts structural sites similar to the ones seen in proteins such as annexins, c2 domains or chromogrannin A, and therefore binds more calcium ions upon binding to Giα. With the number of organelle‐targeted G‐protein‐coupled receptors increasing, intracellular communication mediated by G‐proteins could become a new paradigm. In this regard, we propose that Calnuc could be involved in the downstream signaling of G‐proteins.
Descemet’s stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty and penetrating keratoplasty for Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy
Authors: Hjortdal Jesper , Ehlers Niels
Published: March 2009

Purpose:  To compare the outcome of Descemet’s stripping endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK) to that of penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in patients with Fuchs’ endothelial dystrophy.

Methods:  The first 20 patients who underwent DSAEK at the Department of Ophthalmology, Aarhus University Hospital were compared to 20 patients treated with classic PK. Best‐corrected visual acuity, subjective spectacle refraction and corneal thickness were registered before surgery and 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after DSAEK surgery; they were also measured before surgery and 12 months and 2–3 years after PK. Endothelial cell density was measured 12 months after surgery in both groups.

Results:  Two primary graft failures were observed in the DSAEK group; no failures were seen in the PK group. Best spectacle‐corrected visual acuity (BSCVA) at 12 months after surgery was significantly better in the DSAEK group (0.56 ± 0.04) than in the PK group (0.33 ± 0.06). At this time, 70% of the DSAEK‐treated eyes but only 25% of PK‐treated eyes had obtained a BSCVA of 0.5 or better. Two to three years after surgery, BSCVA was 0.5 or better in 55% of PK‐treated eyes. Refractive ametropia and astigmatism were significantly smaller in DSAEK‐treated eyes than in PK‐treated eyes, even after suture removal and arcuate keratotomy. Endothelial cell density (cells/mm2) after 1 year was lower in DSAEK‐treated (1.338 ± 113) than in PK‐treated eyes (1.610 ± 124), but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:  DSAEK seems to be superior to PK in treating Fuchs’ endothelial keratoplasty, although primary graft failure may be more common. Visual recovery is faster, and major ametropia and astigmatism is not induced. Long‐term follow‐up studies are essential to assess whether this conclusion also holds true more than 1 year after surgery.
Language Educational Policy and Language Learning Quality Management: The Common European Framework of Reference
Authors: Bärenfänger Olaf , Tschirner Erwin
Published: March 2009

Abstract: The major goal of the Council of Europe to promote and facilitate communication and interaction among Europeans of different mother tongues has led to the development of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages: Learning, Teaching, Assessment (CEFR). Among other things, the CEFR is intended to help language professionals reflect on their current practice and situate and coordinate their efforts. The last two objectives are similar to quality management goals. The aim of this article is to present a standard model of quality management, and show how the CEFR may be used to introduce quality management goals in foreign language learning settings to improve the quality of foreign language teaching and learning and to document its results.
Building Language Blocks in L2 Japanese: Chunk Learning and the Development of Complexity and Fluency in Spoken Production
Authors: Taguchi Naoko
Published: March 2009

Abstract: This pilot study examined the development of complexity and fluency of second language (L2) spoken production among L2 learners who received extensive practice on grammatical chunks as constituent units of discourse. Twenty‐two students enrolled in an elementary Japanese course at a U.S. university received classroom instruction on 40 grammatical chunks through communicative drills and memorization of dialogues that contained the target chunks. The students completed two spontaneous conversation tasks in Japanese at five‐week intervals during the semester. Development of their speech between the first and second conversation task was analyzed from three perspectives: 1) the number of accurately used chunks, 2) the complexity of utterances (the number of chunks per t‐unit), and 3) oral fluency (pause length and speech rate). Matched‐pair t tests revealed significant gains in the number and range of the grammatical chunks produced over time, as well as in the complexity of individual utterances. However, there were no significant gains in the fluency of oral production.
Achieving the Advanced Oral Proficiency in Arabic: A Case Study
Authors: Samimy Keiko K.
Published: March 2009

Abstract: This article is based on a case study of a white American graduate student, Mark, who achieved “Superior” oral proficiency in Arabic according to the ACTFIi Oral Proficiency Scale. Based on multiple data sources (e.g., interviews, observation, document analysis), the study highlights Mark's multiple identities as a language learner, language instructor, and as a (non)member of a target language community. It is hoped that the study will inspire and inform language learners and educators of LOTEs (languages other than English), particularly, of LCTLs (less commonly taught languages), such as Arabic.
Achievement Motivational Characteristics of University Foreign Language Learners: From the Classroom to the Tutoring Table
Authors: Matthews Paul H.
Published: March 2009

Abstract: What influences who seeks foreign language tutoring? Using expectancy value theory, the present study researches the characteristics of university foreign language students in the language classroom (n = 258) and seeking tutoring (n = 29). Students' performance and mastery goal orientations, achievement task values, self‐efficacy for foreign language learning, and academic variables were assessed and compared across groups. Foreign language students seeking tutoring were characterized by higher mastery and performance goal orientations and lower overall grade point averages, than those classroom students not seeking tutoring. Additionally, the generally high scores of all students on the motivational variables suggest that pessimistic views of foreign language students' self‐efficacy and motivation may be unwarranted.
Exchanging Second Language Messages Online: Developing an Intercultural Communicative Competence?
Authors: Schuetze Ulf
Published: March 2009

Abstract: This article reports on a study carried out twice on an online second language course that was set up between a Canadian University and a German University. In that course, students of German in Canada and students of English in Germany exchanged 2,412 messages in 2004 and 1,831 messages in 2005. A list of processing criteria for assessment was developed so the assessment process was transparent to instructors and students alike. The main research question was if these processing criteria led to the development of an intercultural communicative competence as defined by Byram (1997). Results showed that students who asked wh‐questions, shared personal experiences, gave examples, and found material that was not provided in the course, engaged in the online dialogue with great success.
An Interactive, Instructor‐Supported Reading Approach vs. Traditional Reading Instruction in Spanish
Authors: Gladwin Ransom F. , Stepp‐Greany Jonita
Published: March 2009

Abstract: This study analyzes the effects of the Interactive Reading with Instructor Support (IRIS) model on reading comprehension, as compared to a traditional (direct‐teaching/lecture format) instructional model. The IRIS model combines reading strategies and social mediation together in the Spanish as a second language environment. In the IRIS model, elements of strategy‐focused instruction, scaffolding, and language promoting assistance are operant. The IRIS model, a collaborative learning approach, presents no disadvantage in reading comprehension when compared to a traditional direct‐teaching model. Furthermore, a slight trend in the data shows an increase in recall performance of the experimental group (the students participating in the IRIS model) when compared to the control group throughout the term.
The Burgess Shale Anomalocaridid
Hurdia
and Its Significance for Early Euarthropod Evolution
Authors: Daley Allison C. , Budd Graham E. , Caron Jean-Bernard , Edgecombe Gregory D. , Collins Desmond
Published: March 2009

As the largest predators of the Cambrian seas, the anomalocaridids had an important impact in structuring the first complex marine animal communities, but many aspects of anomalocaridid morphology, diversity, ecology, and affinity remain unclear owing to a paucity of specimens. Here we describe the anomalocaridid
Hurdia
, based on several hundred specimens from the Burgess Shale in Canada.
Hurdia
possesses a general body architecture similar to those of
Anomalocaris
and
Laggania
, including the presence of exceptionally well-preserved gills, but differs from those anomalocaridids by possessing a prominent anterior carapace structure. These features amplify and clarify the diversity of known anomalocaridid morphology and provide insight into the origins of important arthropod features, such as the head shield and respiratory exites.
High-Throughput Cell-Based Screen for Chemicals That Inhibit Infection by Simian Virus 40 and Human Polyomaviruses
Authors: Goodwin Edward C. , Atwood Walter J. , DiMaio Daniel
Published: March 2009

We developed a high-throughput, cell-based screen to identify chemicals that inhibit infection by the primate polyomaviruses. The screen is based on the detection of compounds that inhibit the ability of a replication-defective simian virus 40 (SV40)-based viral vector to cause growth arrest in HeLa cells by repressing the expression of the endogenous human papillomavirus E7 oncogene in these cells. We identified two compounds, ellagic acid and spiperone, that suppressed the ability of the SV40 recombinant virus to inhibit cellular DNA synthesis. These compounds caused a marked reduction of the ability of wild-type SV40 to productively infect permissive monkey cells, even when the compounds were added several hours after infection. The fraction of cells expressing SV40 large T antigen and the levels of T antigen mRNA were reduced in infected human and monkey cells treated with ellagic acid and spiperone, suggesting that these compounds block a step in the virus life cycle prior to SV40 early gene expression. Ellagic acid and spiperone also inhibited large T antigen expression by BK virus and JC virus, two important, pathogenic human polyomaviruses.
Residues in a Highly Conserved Claudin-1 Motif Are Required for Hepatitis C Virus Entry and Mediate the Formation of Cell-Cell Contacts
Authors: Cukierman Lisa , Meertens Laurent , Bertaux Claire , Kajumo Francis , Dragic Tatjana
Published: March 2009

Claudin-1, a component of tight junctions between liver hepatocytes, is a hepatitis C virus (HCV) late-stage entry cofactor. To investigate the structural and functional roles of various claudin-1 domains in HCV entry, we applied a mutagenesis strategy. Putative functional intracellular claudin-1 domains were not important. However, we identified seven novel residues in the first extracellular loop that are critical for entry of HCV isolates drawn from six different subtypes. Most of the critical residues belong to the highly conserved claudin motif W30-GLW51-C54-C64. Alanine substitutions of these residues did not impair claudin-1 cell surface expression or lateral protein interactions within the plasma membrane, including claudin-1-claudin-1 and claudin-1-CD81 interactions. However, these mutants no longer localized to cell-cell contacts. Based on our observations, we propose that cell-cell contacts formed by claudin-1 may generate specialized membrane domains that are amenable to HCV entry.
Induction of Alpha/Beta Interferon by Myxoma Virus Is Selectively Abrogated When Primary Mouse Embryo Fibroblasts Become Immortalized
Authors: Wang Fuan , Barrett John W. , Ma Yiyue , Dekaban Gregory A. , McFadden Grant
Published: March 2009

Mouse embryo fibroblasts (MEFs) are a widely used cell culture system in life sciences, including virology. Here, we show that although primary MEFs are nonpermissive to myxoma virus replication, the corresponding immortalized MEFs support a highly productive myxoma virus infection. We further demonstrate that this permissive phenotype for myxoma virus in immortalized MEFs is due to the immortalization-associated selective block to the cellular alpha/beta interferon induction machinery involved in responding to myxoma virus challenge. Thus, our report presents a clear example, illustrating that a drastic phenotypic alteration can occur with respect to virus infection between primary cells and their immortalized counterparts.
Test study on the characteristics of mudcakes and in situ soils around bored piles
Authors: Zhang Zhong-Miao , Yu Jun , Zhang Guang-Xing , Zhou Xin-Min
Published: March 2009

Constructing a bored pile produces a disturbed zone of soil adjacent to the pile, referred to as a “mudcake.” The physical properties of the mudcake are different from those of the surrounding soil. This paper reports research on bored piles in silt, clay, and sandy silt layers in Hangzhou, China. Laboratory tests were performed on samples of in situ soil, mudcake, and mudcake mixed with cement grout. The test results showed that mudcakes have a higher water content, higher void ratio, higher compressibility, lower friction, and lower shear strength than in situ soils. They also showed that mudcake properties could be improved by the addition of cement grout. Mudcakes form a weak, thin layer between a pile and a borehole wall, which can lead to a decrease in bearing capacity and an increase in settlement of the pile. Grouting improves the characteristics of mudcakes remarkably, thereby increasing the bearing capacity of piles, which is demonstrated by the case history in this paper.
Numerical parametric study of expanded polystyrene (EPS) geofoam seismic buffers
Authors: Zarnani Saman , Bathurst Richard J.
Published: March 2009

Expanded polystyrene (EPS) geofoam seismic buffers can be used to reduce earthquake-induced loads acting on rigid retaining wall structures. A numerical study was carried out to investigate the influence of wall height; EPS geofoam type, thickness, and stiffness; and excitation record on seismic buffer performance. The numerical simulations were carried out using a verified FLAC code. The influence of parameter values was examined by computing the maximum forces on the walls, the buffer compressive strains, and the relative efficiency of the buffer system. In general, the closer the predominant frequency of excitation to the fundamental frequency of the wall model, the greater the seismic loads and buffer compression. The choice of earthquake record is shown to affect the magnitude of maximum earth force and isolation efficiency. However, when the wall response for walls 3 to 9 m in height are presented in this study in terms of isolation efficiency, the data from scaled accelerograms and matching harmonic records with the same predominant frequency fall within a relatively narrow band when plotted against relative buffer thickness. For the range of parameters investigated, a buffer stiffness value less than 50 MN/m3 was judged to be the practical range for the design of these systems.
Control of mitochondrial biogenesis, ROS level, and cytosolic Ca2+ concentration during the cell cycle and the onset of differentiation in L6E9 myoblasts
Authors: Jahnke Vanessa E. , Sabido Odile , Freyssenet Damien
Published: March 2009

Mitochondria can sense signals linked to changes in energy demand to affect nuclear gene expression. This retrograde signaling pathway is presumed to be involved in the regulation of myoblast proliferation and differentiation. We have investigated the regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and production of putative retrograde signaling agents [hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Ca2+] during the cell cycle and the onset of differentiation in L6E9 muscle cells. The biosynthesis of cardiolipin and mitochondrial proteins was mainly achieved in S phase, whereas the expression of mitochondrial biogenesis factors [peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, PPAR-δ, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase 1] was regularly increased from G1 to G2M phase. In agreement with the increase in mitochondrial membrane potential, mitochondria in S and G2M phases have a significantly higher H2O2 level when compared with G1 phase. By contrast, the onset of differentiation was characterized by a marked reduction in mitochondrial protein expression and mitochondrial H2O2 level. The capacity of mitochondria to release Ca2+ in response to a metabolic challenge was significantly decreased at the onset of differentiation. Finally, an increase in calmodulin expression in S and G2M phases and a transitory increase in phosphorylated nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) c3 in S phase was observed. NFATc3 phosphorylation was markedly decreased at the onset of differentiation. Our data point to functional links between the control of mitochondrial biogenesis and the regulation of the level of retrograde signaling agents during the cell cycle and the onset of differentiation in L6E9 muscle cells.
Endogenous expression of TRPV5 and TRPV6 calcium channels in human leukemia K562 cells
Authors: Semenova Svetlana B. , Vassilieva Irina O. , Fomina Alla F. , Runov Andrey L. , Negulyaev Yuri A.
Published: March 2009

In blood cells, changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) are associated with multiple cellular events, including activation of cellular kinases and phosphatases, degranulation, regulation of cytoskeleton binding proteins, transcriptional control, and modulation of surface receptors. Although there is no doubt as to the significance of Ca2+ signaling in blood cells, there is sparse knowledge about the molecular identities of the plasmalemmal Ca2+ permeable channels that control Ca2+ fluxes across the plasma membrane and mediate changes in [Ca2+]i in blood cells. Using RNA expression analysis, we have shown that human leukemia K562 cells endogenously coexpress transient receptor potential vanilloid channels type 5 (TRPV5) and type 6 (TRPV6) mRNAs. Moreover, we demonstrated that TRPV5 and TRPV6 channel proteins are present in both the total lysates and the crude membrane preparations from leukemia cells. Immunoprecipitation revealed that a physical interaction between TRPV5 and TRPV6 may take place. Single-channel patch-clamp experiments demonstrated the presence of inwardly rectifying monovalent currents that displayed kinetic characteristics of unitary TRPV5 and/or TRPV6 currents and were blocked by extracellular Ca2+ and ruthenium red. Taken together, our data strongly indicate that human myeloid leukemia cells coexpress functional TRPV5 and TRPV6 calcium channels that may interact with each other and contribute into intracellular Ca2+ signaling.
Microinjections of α-melanocyte stimulating hormone into the nucleus ambiguus of the rat elicit vagally mediated bradycardia
Authors: Chitravanshi Vineet C. , Bhatt Suresh , Sapru Hreday N.
Published: March 2009

Neurons that immunostain for alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) have been identified in the nucleus ambiguus (nAmb). The presence of mRNA for melanocortin type 4 receptors (MC4Rs) has also been reported in this nucleus. On the basis of this information, it was hypothesized that activation of MC4Rs in the nAmb may play a role in the regulation of cardiac function. This hypothesis was tested in urethane-anesthetized, artificially ventilated, adult male Wistar rats. Microinjections (30 nl) of α-MSH (0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, and 1.2 mM) into the nAmb of anesthetized rats elicited decreases in heart rate (HR; 1.3 ± 0.6, 3 ± 1, 11 ± 2, 46.3 ± 3, and 43.3 ± 7 bpm, respectively) and no changes in mean arterial pressure (MAP). Maximum decreases in HR were elicited by 0.8 mM concentration of α-MSH. Bradycardic responses to α-MSH were similar in unanesthetized midcollicular decerebrate rats. Microinjections of artificial cerebrospinal fluid (30 nl) into the nAmb did not elicit a HR response. Bilateral vagotomy completely abolished α-MSH-induced bradycardia. The decreases in HR elicited by α-MSH (0.8 mM) were completely blocked by a selective MC4R antagonist. Direct application of α-MSH on the nAmb neurons increased their firing, which was blocked by prior applications of the MC4R antagonist. Microinjections of the MC4R antagonist into the nAmb did not alter reflex bradycardic responses elicited by intravenous infusions of phenylephrine, suggesting that MC4Rs did not play a role in mediating the parasympathetic component of baroreflex-induced bradycardia. These results indicated that α-MSH microinjections into the nAmb exert excitatory effects on parasympathetic preganglionic nAmb neurons via MC4Rs, leading to bradycardic responses.
Transepithelial fluxes of adenosine and 2′-deoxyadenosine across human renal proximal tubule cells: roles of nucleoside transporters hENT1, hENT2, and hCNT3
Authors: Elwi Adam N. , Damaraju Vijaya L. , Kuzma Michelle L. , Mowles Delores A. , Baldwin Stephen A. , Young James D. , Sawyer Michael B. , Cass Carol E.
Published: March 2009

This study examined the roles of human nucleoside transporters (hNTs) in mediating transepithelial fluxes of adenosine, 2′-deoxyadenosine, and three purine nucleoside anti-cancer drugs across polarized monolayers of human renal proximal tubule cells (hRPTCs), which were shown in previous studies to have human equilibrative NT 1 (hENT1) and 2 (hENT2) and human concentrative NT 3 (hCNT3) activities ( 11 ). Early passage hRPTCs were cultured on transwell inserts under conditions that induced formation of polarized monolayers with experimentally accessible apical and basolateral domains. Polarized hRPTC cultures were monitored for inhibitor sensitivities and sodium-dependence of the following: 1) transepithelial fluxes of radiolabeled adenosine, 2′-deoxyadenosine, fludarabine (9-β-d-arabinosyl-2-fluoroadenine), cladribine (2-chloro-2′-deoxyadenosine), and clofarabine (2-chloro-2′-fluoro-deoxy-9-β-d-arabinofuranosyladenine); 2) mediated uptake of radiolabeled adenosine, 2′-deoxyadenosine, fludarabine, cladribine, and clofarabine from either apical or basolateral surfaces; and 3) relative apical cell surface hCNT3 protein levels. Transepithelial fluxes of adenosine were mediated from apical-to-basolateral sides by apical hCNT3 and basolateral hENT2, whereas transepithelial fluxes of 2′-deoxyadenosine were mediated from basolateral-to-apical sides by apical hENT1 and basolateral human organic anion transporters (hOATs). The transepithelial fluxes of adenosine, hCNT3-mediated cellular uptake of adenosine, and relative apical cell surface hCNT3 protein levels correlated positively in polarized hRPTCs. The purine nucleoside anti-cancer drugs fludarabine, cladribine, and clofarabine, like adenosine exhibited apical-to-basolateral fluxes. Collectively, this evidence suggested that apical hCNT3 and basolateral hENT2 are involved in proximal tubular reabsorption of adenosine and some nucleoside drugs and that apical hENT1 and basolateral hOATs are involved in proximal tubular secretion of 2′-deoxyadenosine.
Effects of mineralocorticoid and K+concentration on K+secretion and ROMK channel expression in a mouse cortical collecting duct cell line
Authors: Fodstad Heidi , Gonzalez-Rodriguez Elena , Bron Sylvian , Gaeggeler Hanspeter , Guisan Barbara , Rossier Bernard C. , Horisberger Jean-Daniel
Published: March 2009

The cortical collecting duct (CCD) plays a key role in regulated K+secretion, which is mediated mainly through renal outer medullary K+(ROMK) channels located in the apical membrane. However, the mechanisms of the regulation of urinary K+excretion with regard to K+balance are not well known. We took advantage of a recently established mouse CCD cell line (mCCDcl1) to investigate the regulation of K+secretion by mineralocorticoid and K+concentration. We show that this cell line expresses ROMK mRNA and a barium-sensitive K+conductance in its apical membrane. As this conductance is sensitive to tertiapin-Q, with an apparent affinity of 6 nM, and to intracellular acidification, it is probably mediated by ROMK. Overnight exposure to 100 nM aldosterone did not significantly change the K+conductance, while it increased the amiloride-sensitive Na+transport. Overnight exposure to a high K+(7 mM) concentration produced a small but significant increase in the apical membrane barium-sensitive K+conductance. The mRNA levels of all ROMK isoforms measured by qRT-PCR were not changed by altering the basolateral K+concentration but were decreased by 15–45% upon treatment with aldosterone (0.3 or 300 nM for 1 and 3 h). The paradoxical response of ROMK expression to aldosterone could possibly work as a preventative mechanism to avoid excessive K+loss which would otherwise result from the increased electrogenic Na+transport and associated depolarization of the apical membrane in the CCD. In conclusion, mCCDcl1cells demonstrate a significant K+secretion, probably mediated by ROMK, which is not stimulated by aldosterone but increased by overnight exposure to a high K+concentration.
Afferent Connections to the Rostrolateral Part of the Periaqueductal Gray: A Critical Region Influencing the Motivation Drive to Hunt and Forage
Authors: Mota-Ortiz Sandra Regina , Sukikara Marcia Harumi , Felicio Luciano Freitas , Canteras Newton Sabino
Published: March 2009

Previous studies have shown that a particular site in the periaqueductal gray (PAG), the rostrolateral PAG, influences the motivation drive to forage or hunt. To have a deeper understanding on the putative paths involved in the decision-making process between foraging, hunting, and other behavioral responses, in the present investigation, we carried out a systematic analysis of the neural inputs to the rostrolateral PAG (rlPAG), using Fluorogold as a retrograde tracer. According to the present findings, the rlPAG appears to be importantly driven by medial prefrontal cortical areas involved in controlling attention-related and decision-making processes. Moreover, the rlPAG also receives a wealth of information from different amygdalar, hypothalamic, and brainstem sites related to feeding, drinking, or hunting behavioral responses. Therefore, this unique combination of afferent connections puts the rlPAG in a privileged position to influence the motivation drive to choose whether hunting and foraging would be the most appropriate adaptive responses.
Precipitation and Water Vapor Transport in the Southern Hemisphere with Emphasis on the South American Region
Authors: Arraut Josefina Moraes , Satyamurty Prakki
Published: March 2009

December–March climatologies of precipitation and vertically integrated water vapor transport were analyzed and compared to find the main paths by which moisture is fed to high-rainfall regions in the Southern Hemisphere in this season. The southern tropics (20°S–0°) exhibit high rainfall and receive ample moisture from the northern trades, except in the eastern Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans. This interhemispheric flow is particularly important for Amazonian rainfall, establishing the North Atlantic as the main source of moisture for the forest during its main rainy season. In the subtropics the rainfall distribution is very heterogeneous. The meridional average of precipitation between 35° and 25°S is well modulated by the meridional water vapor transport through the 25°S latitude circle, being greater where this transport is from the north and smaller where it is from the south. In South America, to the east of the Andes, the moisture that fuels precipitation between 20° and 30°S comes from both the tropical South and North Atlantic Oceans whereas between 30° and 40°S it comes mostly from the North Atlantic after passing over the Amazonian rain forest. The meridional transport (across 25°S) curve exhibits a double peak over South America and the adjacent Atlantic, which is closely reproduced in the mean rainfall curve. This corresponds to two local maxima in the two-dimensional field of meridional transport: the moisture corridor from Amazonia into the continental subtropics and the moisture flow coming from the southern tropical Atlantic into the subtropical portion of the South Atlantic convergence zone. These two narrow pathways of intense moisture flow could be suitably called “aerial rivers.” Their longitudinal positions are well defined. The yearly deviations from climatology for moisture flow and rainfall correlate well (0.75) for the continental peak but not for the oceanic peak (0.23). The structure of two maxima is produced by the effect of transients in the time scale of days.
Observed Strengthening of the Zonal Sea Surface Temperature Gradient across the Equatorial Pacific Ocean*
Authors: Karnauskas Kristopher B. , Seager Richard , Kaplan Alexey , Kushnir Yochanan , Cane Mark A.
Published: March 2009

Decadal variations of very small amplitude [∼0.3°C in sea surface temperature (SST)] in the tropical Pacific Ocean, the genesis region of the interannual El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, have been shown to have powerful impacts on global climate. Future projections from different climate models do not agree on how this critical feature will change under the influence of anthropogenic forcing. A number of attempts have been made to resolve this issue by examining observed trends from the 1880s to the present, a period of rising atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases. A recent attempt concluded that the three major datasets disagreed on the trend in the equatorial gradient of SST. Using a corrected version of one of these datasets, and extending the analysis to the seasonal cycle, it is shown here that all agree that the equatorial Pacific zonal SST gradient has strengthened from 1880 to 2005 during the boreal fall when this gradient is normally strongest. This result appears to favor a theory for future changes based on ocean dynamics over one based on atmospheric energy considerations. Both theories incorporate the expectation, based on ENSO theory, that the zonal sea level pressure (SLP) gradient in the tropical Pacific is coupled to SST and should therefore strengthen along with the SST gradient. While the SLP gradient has not strengthened, it is found that it appears to have weakened only during boreal spring, consistent with the SST seasonal trends. Most of the coupled models included in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report underestimate the strengthening SST gradient in boreal fall, and show almost no change in the SLP gradient in any season. The observational analyses herein suggest that both theories are at work but with relative strengths that vary seasonally, and that the two theories need not be inconsistent with each other.
A Displacement and Amplitude Score Employing an Optical Flow Technique
Authors: Keil Christian , Craig George C.
Published: March 2009

A field verification measure for precipitation forecasts is presented that combines distance and amplitude errors. It is based on an optical flow algorithm that defines a vector field that deforms, or morphs, one image to match another. When the forecast field is morphed to match the observation field, then for any point in the observation field, the magnitude of the displacement vector gives the distance to the corresponding forecast object (if any), while the difference between the observation and the morphed forecast is the amplitude error. Similarly, morphing the observation field onto the forecast field gives displacement and amplitude errors for forecast features. If observed and forecast features are separated by more than a prescribed maximum search distance, they are not matched to each other, but they are considered to be two separate amplitude errors: a missed event and a false alarm. The displacement and amplitude error components are combined to produce a displacement and amplitude score (DAS). The two components are weighted according to the principle that a displacement error equal to the maximum search distance is equivalent to the amplitude error that would be obtained by a forecast and an observed feature that are too far apart to be matched. The new score, DAS, is applied to the idealized and observed test cases of the Spatial Verification Methods Intercomparison Project (ICP) and is found to accurately measure displacement errors and quantify combined displacement and amplitude errors reasonably well, although with some limitations due to the inability of the image matcher to perfectly match complex fields.
Technology and the Evolution of the Regulatory State
Authors: Whitford Andrew B. , Tucker Justin A.
Published: March 2009

Modern states increasingly rely on two means of regulating markets: public regulation (by the government) and private self-regulation (by the firms themselves). This study assesses the evolution of the state toward co-regulation by examining, across countries, the incidence of a prominent type of self-regulation: the environmental protection standard ISO 14001. It focuses on technological capabilities as a precursor to the widespread adoption of ISO 14001. Just as technological progress helps to explain differences in economic growth, markets with greater technological attainment (specifically, general purpose technologies) arguably have greater firm-level adoption of self-regulation practices. According to panel data, ISO 14001 is more widespread in countries with greater technological capabilities, but there are diminishing returns to the impact of technology. As such, limited technological attainment remains a key factor that constrains economic growth and limits not only the capacity of the market to regulate itself but so, too, the evolution of the state toward a system of co-regulation.
Critical performativity: The unfinished business of critical management studies
Authors: Spicer André , Alvesson Mats , Kärreman Dan
Published: March 2009

We argue that critical management studies (CMS) should be conceptualized as a profoundly performative project. The central task of CMS should be to actively and pragmatically intervene in specific debates about management and encourage progressive forms of management. This involves CMS becoming affirmative, caring, pragmatic, potential focused, and normative. To do this, we suggest a range of tactics including affirming ambiguity, working with mysteries, applied communicative action, exploring heterotopias and engaging micro-emancipations.
Parenting Children With Diabetes
Authors: Sherifali Diana , Ciliska Donna , O'Mara Linda
Published: March 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which parenting styles is associated with diabetes control in children (aged 5—12 years) with type 1 diabetes, and on child and parent quality of life.

Methods

Data were collected from a total of 216 parent and child dyads, from 4 pediatric diabetes clinics in southern Ontario, using a cross-sectional survey methodology. Each parent and child independently completed the questionnaires. The study instruments included the Parenting Dimensions Inventory, Pediatric Quality of Life (diabetes specific), and chart reviews for glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) levels.

Results

The results of the study demonstrated that parenting styles were not correlated with diabetes control and were weakly correlated with quality of life. Most parents reported behaviors of authoritative or democratic parenting. The mean glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C) for children in the study was slightly above optimal target range, at 8.4%. Parental education had a weak negative correlation with diabetes control.

Conclusions

Parenting styles are not associated with diabetes control and quality of life in children with type 1 diabetes. However, further research should assess the impact of the determinants of parenting on children with type 1 diabetes and quality of life.
Organizational Religious Behavior Among Older African Americans
Authors: Taylor Robert Joseph , Chatters Linda M. , McKeever Bullard Kai , Wallace John M. , Jackson James S.
Published: March 2009

The authors used data from the older African American subsample of the National Survey of American Life ( n = 837) to examine the sociodemographic and denominational correlates of organizational religious involvement among older African Americans. Six measures of organizational religious participation were used, including two measures of time allocation for organized religious pursuits. Significant gender, regional, marital status, and denominational differences in organizational religiosity were found. Of particular note, although older Black women generally displayed higher levels of religious participation, older Black men spent more hours per week in other activities at their places of worship. The findings are discussed in relation to prior work in the area of religious involvement among older adults. New directions for research on religious time allocation are outlined.
An evaluation framework of user interaction with metadata surrogates
Authors: Balatsoukas Panos , Morris Anne , O'Brien Ann
Published: March 2009

This paper proposes a framework for the evaluation of user interaction with textual metadata surrogates in the search result interfaces of various types of Information Retrieval (IR) systems. Metadata surrogates are representations of the full-text documents displayed to the user as a list of retrieved results after a search has been performed in an IR system. By examining the metadata surrogates, users can make judgments about the relevance of the full-text document without having to access and evaluate the document itself, thus saving a considerable amount of time and effort. The literature review, however, reveals a lack of frameworks for the evaluation of users' interaction with metadata surrogates. The implications of such a framework would be to inform designers and researchers of IR systems about the main components of users' interaction with metadata surrogates and to facilitate the process of evaluating metadata surrogates in terms of content and presentation.