bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chapter 63 The Neoproterozoic glaciogenic deposits of Scotland and Ireland
Authors: Prave A. R. , Fallick A. E.
Published: December 2011

Of the three major Neoproterozoic supracrustal units in the Scottish and Irish Highlands (the Torridonian, Moine and Dalradian Supergroups), only the latter contains evidence of Neoproterozoic glaciations. The Dalradian is siliciclastic-dominated and constitutes much of the Scottish–Irish Highlands between the Great Glen and Highland Boundary Fault Zones, and their correlatives in Ireland. At the time of writing, three stratigraphically distinct glacial intervals in the Dalradian have been documented in the literature. The oldest is the Port Askaig Formation (Fm.) at the base of the Argyll Group (see
Arnaud & Fairchild 2011
). It ranges from several tens to many hundreds of metres in thickness and occurs in numerous localities in Scotland and the north of Ireland. A second glacial is recorded in the middle part of the Argyll Group (Easdale Subgroup) and consists of localised sedimentary breccias as well as pelites and schists containing dropstone/lonestone units inferred to be ice-rafted debris; these rocks are patchily preserved and typically a few metres or less in thickness. It is sharply overlain by a variably developed carbonate unit that is marked by a 1–7-m-thick, light-coloured, basal dolostone or dolomitic limestone interpreted as a cap carbonate. This succession is best preserved in Donegal, Ireland, as the Stralinchy–Reelan glacial and Cranford cap-carbonate sequence. A correlative cap carbonate, the Whiteness Limestone, has been identified in the Shetland Islands. The third and youngest glacial is represented by locally preserved dropstone and polymict diamictite beds ranging in thickness from several to a few tens of metres in thickness in the lower Southern Highland Group. These include the MacDuff and Loch na Cille Boulder Beds in, respectively, NE and SW Scotland, and the Inishowen Beds in Donegal, Ireland.
Thiopental-induced insulin secretion via activation of IP3-sensitive calcium stores in rat pancreatic β-cells
Authors: Dou Hai-Qiang , Xu Yun-Fei , Sun Jin-Peng , Shang Shujiang , Guo Shu , Zheng Liang-Hong , Chen Chao-chao , Bruce Iain C. , Yu Xiao , Zhou Zhuan
Published: December 2011

While glucose-stimulated insulin secretion depends on Ca2+ influx through voltage-gated Ca2+ channels in the cell membrane of the pancreatic β-cell, there is also ample evidence for an important role of intracellular Ca2+ stores in insulin secretion, particularly in relation to drug stimuli. We report here that thiopental, a common anesthetic agent, triggers insulin secretion from the intact pancreas and primary cultured rat pancreatic β-cells. We investigated the underlying mechanisms by measurements of whole cell K+ and Ca2+ currents, membrane potential, cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i), and membrane capacitance. Thiopental-induced insulin secretion was first detected by enzyme-linked immunoassay, then further assessed by membrane capacitance measurement, which revealed kinetics distinct from glucose-induced insulin secretion. The thiopental-induced secretion was independent of cell membrane depolarization and closure of ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels. However, accompanied by the insulin secretion stimulated by thiopental, we recorded a significant intracellular [Ca2+] increase that was not from Ca2+ influx across the cell membrane, but from intracellular Ca2+ stores. The thiopental-induced [Ca2+]i rise in β-cells was sensitive to thapsigargin, a blocker of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ pump, as well as to heparin (0.1 mg/ml) and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB; 100 μM), drugs that inhibit inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) binding to the IP3 receptor, and to U-73122, a phospholipase C inhibitor, but insensitive to ryanodine. Thapsigargin also diminished thiopental-induced insulin secretion. Thus, we conclude that thiopental-induced insulin secretion is mediated by activation of the intracellular IP3-sensitive Ca2+ store.
Effects of adenosine, exercise, and moderate acute hypoxia on energy substrate utilization of human skeletal muscle
Authors: Heinonen Ilkka , Kemppainen Jukka , Kaskinoro Kimmo , Peltonen Juha E. , Sipilä Hannu T. , Nuutila Pirjo , Knuuti Juhani , Boushel Robert , Kalliokoski Kari K.
Published: December 2011

Glucose metabolism increases in hypoxia and can be influenced by endogenous adenosine, but the role of adenosine for regulating glucose metabolism at rest or during exercise in hypoxia has not been elucidated in humans. We studied the effects of exogenous adenosine on human skeletal muscle glucose uptake and other blood energy substrates [free fatty acid (FFA) and lactate] by infusing adenosine into the femoral artery in nine healthy young men. The role of endogenous adenosine was studied by intra-arterial adenosine receptor inhibition (aminophylline) during dynamic one-leg knee extension exercise in normoxia and acute hypoxia corresponding to ∼3,400 m of altitude. Extraction and release of energy substrates were studied by arterial-to-venous (A-V) blood samples, and total uptake or release was determined by the product of A-V differences and muscle nutritive perfusion measured by positron emission tomography. The results showed that glucose uptake increased from a baseline value of 0.2 ± 0.2 to 2.0 ± 2.2 μmol·100 g−1·min−1during adenosine infusion ( P < 0.05) at rest. Although acute hypoxia enhanced arterial FFA levels, it did not affect muscle substrate utilization at rest. During exercise, glucose uptake was higher (195%) during acute hypoxia compared with normoxia ( P = 0.058), and aminophylline had no effect on energy substrate utilization during exercise, despite that arterial FFA levels were increased. In conclusion, exogenous adenosine at rest and acute moderate hypoxia during low-intensity knee-extension exercise increases skeletal muscle glucose uptake, but the increase in hypoxia appears not to be mediated by adenosine.
Rab11b regulates the trafficking and recycling of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC)
Authors: Butterworth Michael B. , Edinger Robert S. , Silvis Mark R. , Gallo Luciana I. , Liang Xiubin , Apodaca Gerard , Fizzell Raymond A. , Johnson John P.
Published: December 2011

Expression of the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) at the apical membrane of cortical collecting duct (CCD) principal cells is modulated by regulated trafficking mediated by vesicle insertion and retrieval. Small GTPases are known to facilitate vesicle trafficking, recycling, and membrane fusion events; however, little is known about the specific Rab family members that modify ENaC surface density. Using a mouse CCD cell line that endogenously expresses ENaC (mpkCCD), the channel was localized to both Rab11a- and Rab11b-positive endosomes by immunoisolation and confocal fluorescent microscopy. Expression of a dominant negative (DN) form of Rab11a or Rab11b significantly reduced the basal and cAMP-stimulated ENaC-dependent sodium (Na+) transport. The greatest reduction in Na+transport was observed with the expression of DN-Rab11b. Furthermore, small interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of each Rab11 isoform demonstrated the requirement for Rab11b in ENaC surface expression. These data indicate that Rab11b, and to a lesser extent Rab11a, is involved in establishing the constitutive and cAMP-stimulated Na+transport in mpkCCD cells.
Late postnatal development of intrinsic and synaptic properties promotes fast and precise signaling in the dorsal nucleus of the lateral lemniscus
Authors: Ammer J. J. , Grothe B. , Felmy F.
Published: December 2011

The dorsal nucleus of the lateral lemniscus (DNLL) is an auditory brain stem structure that generates a long-lasting GABAergic output, which is important for binaural processing. Despite its importance in binaural processing, little is known about the cellular physiology and the synaptic input kinetics of DNLL neurons. To assess the relevant physiological parameters of DNLL neurons, their late postnatal developmental profile was analyzed in acute brain slices of 9- to 26-day-old Mongolian gerbils. The observed developmental changes in passive membrane and action potential (AP) properties all point toward an improvement of fast and precise signal integration in these neurons. Accordingly, synaptic glutamatergic and GABAergic current kinetics accelerate with age. The changes in intrinsic and synaptic properties contribute nearly equally to reduce the latency and jitter in AP generation and thus enhance the temporal precision of DNLL neurons. Furthermore, the size of the synaptic NMDA current is developmentally downregulated. Despite this developmental reduction, DNLL neurons display an NMDA-dependent postsynaptic amplification of AP generation, known to support high firing rates, throughout this developmental period. Taken together, our findings indicate that during late postnatal development DNLL neurons are optimized for high firing rates with high temporal precision.
Closely overlapping responses to tools and hands in left lateral occipitotemporal cortex
Authors: Bracci Stefania , Cavina-Pratesi Cristiana , Ietswaart Magdalena , Caramazza Alfonso , Peelen Marius V.
Published: December 2011

The perception of object-directed actions performed by either hands or tools recruits regions in left fronto-parietal cortex. Here, using functional MRI (fMRI), we tested whether the common role of hands and tools in object manipulation is also reflected in the distribution of response patterns to these categories in visual cortex. In two experiments we found that static pictures of hands and tools activated closely overlapping regions in left lateral occipitotemporal cortex (LOTC). Left LOTC responses to tools selectively overlapped with responses to hands but not with responses to whole bodies, nonhand body parts, other objects, or visual motion. Multivoxel pattern analysis in left LOTC indicated a high degree of similarity between response patterns to hands and tools but not between hands or tools and other body parts. Finally, functional connectivity analysis showed that the left LOTC hand/tool region was selectively connected, relative to neighboring body-, motion-, and object-responsive regions, with regions in left intraparietal sulcus and left premotor cortex that have previously been implicated in hand/tool action-related processing. Taken together, these results suggest that action-related object properties shared by hands and tools are reflected in the organization of high-order visual cortex. We propose that the functional organization of high-order visual cortex partly reflects the organization of downstream functional networks, such as the fronto-parietal action network, due to differences within visual cortex in the connectivity to these networks.
The People′s or the World′s: RMB Internationalisation in Longer Historic Perspective
Authors: Horesh Niv
Published: December 2011

Prognoses of China′s currency—Renminbi or RMB in short—going global have become a hotly debated topic in the economic and popular literature of late. While some analysts are tipping a gradual transformation of the RMB into the world′s next principal reserve currency in lieu of the US$, others contend that the deficiencies of China′s financial market will continue to preclude any such transformation for a long time to come. The aim of this paper is to survey the arguments put forward by either camp and to weigh into this debate not only through the prism of applied economic theory or political economy but also through the prism of economic history.
Observed Change in Sahel Rainfall, Circulations, African Easterly Waves, and Atlantic Hurricanes Since 1979
Authors: Wang Shih-Yu , Gillies Robert R.
Published: December 2011

Here, we examine the dynamic properties associated with the recent increase in the Sahel rainfall using an ensemble of five global reanalysis datasets (1979–2010). The rainfall that has been observed to be increasing over the Sahel is accounted for by enhancements in both the tropical easterly jet and the African easterly jet, both of which are known to induce wet anomalies. Moreover, positional shifts in the African easterly jet and African easterly waves (AEWs) accompanied the northward migration of the Sahel rainband. Change in the African easterly jet and AEWs are coupled to a northward shift and amplification of convective activity; this signals an increased potential for the occurrence of flash floods along the northern Sahel. In addition, the result from a wave tracking analysis suggests that the change in AEWs is closely linked to increased activity of intense hurricanes in the North Atlantic. The synoptic concurrence of AEWs in driving the dynamics of the Sahel greening and the increase in tropical cyclogeneses over the North Atlantic is an important aspect in the evaluation of climate model projections.
A Variable Step‐Size Exponentially Fitted Explicit Hybrid Method for Solving Oscillatory Problems
Authors: Samat F. , Ismail F. , Suleiman M. B.
Published: December 2011

An exponentially fitted explicit hybrid method for solving oscillatory problems is obtained. This method has four stages. The first three stages of the method integrate exactly differential systems whose solutions can be expressed as linear combinations of {1, x, exp(μx), exp(−μx)}, μ ∈ C, while the last stage of this method integrates exactly systems whose solutions are linear combinations of {1, x, x2, x3, x4, exp(μx), exp(−μx)}. This method is implemented in variable step‐size code basing on an embedding approach. The stability analysis is given. Numerical experiments that have been carried out show the efficiency of our method.
Epigenetics in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Albany Costantine , Alva Ajjai S. , Aparicio Ana M. , Singal Rakesh , Yellapragada Sarvari , Sonpavde Guru , Hahn Noah M.
Published: December 2011

Prostate cancer (PC) is the most commonly diagnosed nonskin malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer death among men in the United States. Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene expression caused by mechanisms other than changes in the underlying DNA sequences. Two common epigenetic mechanisms, DNA methylation and histone modification, have demonstrated critical roles in prostate cancer growth and metastasis. DNA hypermethylation of cytosine-guanine (CpG) rich sequence islands within gene promoter regions is widespread during neoplastic transformation of prostate cells, suggesting that treatment-induced restoration of a “normal” epigenome could be clinically beneficial. Histone modification leads to altered tumor gene function by changing chromosome structure and the level of gene transcription. The reversibility of epigenetic aberrations and restoration of tumor suppression gene function have made them attractive targets for prostate cancer treatment with modulators that demethylate DNA and inhibit histone deacetylases.
Functional Genomic and Advanced Genetic Studies Reveal Novel Insights into the Metabolism, Regulation, and Biology ofHaloferax volcanii
Authors: Soppa Jörg
Published: December 2011

The genome sequence ofHaloferax volcaniiis available and several comparative genomicin silicostudies were performed that yielded novel insight for example into protein export, RNA modifications, small non-coding RNAs, and ubiquitin-like Small Archaeal Modifier Proteins. The full range of functional genomic methods has been established and results from transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomic studies are discussed. Notably,Hfx. volcaniiis together with Halobacterium salinarum the only prokaryotic species for which a translatome analysis has been performed. The results revealed that the fraction of translationally-regulated genes in haloarchaea is as high as in eukaryotes. A highly efficient genetic system has been established that enables the application of libraries as well as the parallel generation of genomic deletion mutants. Facile mutant generation is complemented by the possibility to cultureHfx. volcaniiin microtiter plates, allowing the phenotyping of mutant collections. Genetic approaches are currently used to study diverse biological questions–from replication to posttranslational modification—and selected results are discussed. Taken together, the wealth of functional genomic and genetic tools makeHfx. volcaniia bona fide archaeal model species, which has enabled the generation of important results in recent years and will most likely generate further breakthroughs in the future.
Global Stability of an Eco‐Epidemiological Model with Time Delay and Saturation Incidence
Authors: Mao Shuxue , Xu Rui , Li Zhe , Li Yunfei
Published: December 2011

We investigate a delayed eco‐epidemiological model with disease in predator and saturation incidence. First, by comparison arguments, the permanence of the model is discussed. Then, we study the local stability of each equilibrium of the model by analyzing the corresponding characteristic equations and find that Hopf bifurcation occurs when the delay τ passes through a sequence of critical values. Next, by means of an iteration technique, sufficient conditions are derived for the global stability of the disease‐free planar equilibrium and the positive equilibrium. Numerical examples are carried out to illustrate the analytical results.
Three-Terminal Amorphous Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Tai Cheng-Hung , Lin Chu-Hsuan , Wang Chih-Ming , Lin Chun-Chieh
Published: December 2011

Many defects exist within amorphous silicon since it is not crystalline. This provides recombination centers, thus reducing the efficiency of a typical a-Si solar cell. A new structure is presented in this paper: a three-terminal a-Si solar cell. The new back-to-back p-i-n/n-i-p structure increased the average electric field in a solar cell. A typical a-Si p-i-n solar cell was also simulated for comparison using the same thickness and material parameters. The 0.28 μm-thick three-terminal a-Si solar cell achieved an efficiency of 11.4%, while the efficiency of a typical a-Si p-i-n solar cell was 9.0%. Furthermore, an efficiency of 11.7% was achieved by thickness optimization of the three-terminal solar cell.
Newer Root Canal Irrigants in Horizon: A Review
Authors: Jaju Sushma , Jaju Prashant P.
Published: December 2011

Sodium hypochloride is the most commonly used endodontic irrigant, despite limitations. None of the presently available root canal irrigants satisfy the requirements of ideal root canal irrigant. Newer root canal irrigants are studied for potential replacement of sodium hypochloride. This article reviews the potential irrigants with their advantages and limitations with their future in endodontic irrigation.
Effects of Au Nanoparticle Addition to Hole Transfer Layer in Organic Photovoltaic Cells Based on Phthalocyanines and Fullerene
Authors: Nagata Akihiko , Oku Takeo , Akiyama Tsuyoshi , Suzuki Atsushi , Yamasaki Yasuhiro , Mori Tomohiro
Published: December 2011

Phthalocyanines/fullerene organic photovoltaic cells were fabricated and characterized. Effects of Au nanoparticle addition to a hole transfer layer were also investigated, and power conversion efficiencies of the photovoltaic cells were improved after blending the Au nanoparticle into PEDOT:PSS. Nanostructures of the Au nanoparticles were investigated by transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Energy levels of molecules were calculated by molecular orbital calculations, and the nanostructures and electronic property were discussed.
Transplacental Transmission ofPlasmodium falciparumin a Highly Malaria Endemic Area of Burkina Faso
Authors: Ouédraogo Alphonse , Tiono Alfred B. , Diarra Amidou , Bougouma Edith C. Christiane , Nébié Issa , Konaté Amadou T. , Sirima Sodiomon B.
Published: December 2011

Malaria congenital infection constitutes a major risk in malaria endemic areas. In this study, we report the prevalence of transplacental malaria in Burkina Faso. In labour and delivery units, thick and thin blood films were made from maternal, placental, and umbilical cord blood to determine malaria infection. A total of 1,309 mother/baby pairs were recruited. Eighteen cord blood samples (1.4%) contained malaria parasites(Plasmodium falciparum). Out of the 369 (28.2%) women with peripheral positive parasitemia, 211 (57.2%) had placental malaria and 14 (3.8%) had malaria parasites in their umbilical cord blood. The umbilical cord parasitemia levels were statistically associated with the presence of maternal peripheral parasitemia (, ), placental parasitemia (, ), high-density peripheral parasitemia (, ), and high-density placental parasitemia (, ). In Burkina Faso, the mother-to-child transmission rate of malaria appears to be low.
Perinatal Cat and Dog Exposure and the Risk of Asthma and Allergy in the Urban Environment: A Systematic Review of Longitudinal Studies
Authors: Lodge Caroline J. , Allen Katrina J. , Lowe Adrian J. , Hill David J. , Hosking Cliff S. , Abramson Michael J. , Dharmage Shyamali C.
Published: December 2011

Background. The literature is contradictory concerning pet exposure and the risk of development of asthma and other allergic diseases. Using longitudinal studies, we aimed to systematically review the impact of pet ownership in the critical perinatal period as a risk factor for allergies in childhood.Methods. Medline database was searched for urban cohort studies with perinatal exposure to cats and/or dogs and subsequent asthma or allergic disease.Results. Nine articles, comprising 6498 participants, met inclusion criteria. Six found a reduction in allergic disease associated with perinatal exposure to dogs or, cats or dogs. One study found no association. Two found increased risk only in high-risk groups.Conclusion. Longitudinal studies in urban populations suggest that perinatal pets, especially dogs, may reduce the development of allergic disease in those without a family history of allergy. Other unmeasured factors such as pet-keeping choices in allergic families may be confounding the association seen in these high-risk families, and further study is required.
In Vivo Toxicity of Silver Nanoparticles and Silver Ions in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Bilberg Katrine , Hovgaard Mads Bruun , Besenbacher Flemming , Baatrup Erik
Published: December 2011

The influence of water chemistry on characterised polyvinyl pyrrolidone- (PVP-) coated silver nanoparticles (81 nm) was investigated. NaCl solution series of 100–800 mg L−1lead to initial and temporal increase in nanoparticles size, but agglomeration was limited. pH variation (5–8) had only minor influence on the hydrodynamic particle size. Acute toxicity of nanosivler to zebrafish (Danio rerio) was investigated in a 48-hour static renewal study and compared with the toxicity of silver ions (AgNO3). The nanosilver and silver ion 48-hour median lethal concentration (LC50) values were 84 μg L−1and 25 μg L−1, respectively. To investigate exposure-related stress, the fish behaviour was observed visually after 0, 3, 6, 12, 24, 27, 30, and 48 hours of both nanosilver and ionic silver treatments. These observations revealed increased rate of operculum movement and surface respiration after nanosilver exposure, suggesting respiratory toxicity. The present study demonstrates that silver nanoparticles are lethal to zebrafish.
The Interplay between ROS and Ras GTPases: Physiological and Pathological Implications
Authors: Ferro Elisa , Goitre Luca , Retta Saverio Francesco , Trabalzini Lorenza
Published: December 2011

The members of the RasGTPase superfamily are involved in various signaling networks responsible for fundamental cellular processes. Their activity is determined by their guanine nucleotide-bound state. Recent evidence indicates that some of these proteins may be regulated by redox agents. Reactive oxygen species (ROSs) and reactive nitrogen species (RNSs) have been historically considered pathological agents which can react with and damage many biological macromolecules including DNA, proteins, and lipids. However, a growing number of reports have suggested that the intracellular production of ROS is tightly regulated and that these redox agents serve as signaling molecules being involved in a variety of cell signaling pathways. Numerous observations have suggested that some Ras GTPases appear to regulate ROS production and that oxidants function as effector molecules for the small GTPases, thus contributing to their overall biological function. Thus, redox agents may act both as upstream regulators and as downstream effectors of Ras GTPases. Here we discuss current understanding concerning mechanisms and physiopathological implications of the interplay between GTPases and redox agents.
Ixora parvifloraProtects against UVB-Induced Photoaging by Inhibiting the Expression of MMPs, MAP Kinases, and COX-2 and by Promoting Type I Procollagen Synthesis
Authors: Wen Kuo-Ching , Fan Pei-Ching , Tsai Shang-Yuan , Shih I-Chen , Chiang Hsiu-Mei
Published: December 2011

Ixora parviflorawith high polyphenol content exhibited antioxidant activity and reducing UVB-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species production. In this study, results of the photoaging screening experiments revealed that IPE at 1000 μg/mL reduced the activity of bacterial collagenase by 92.7 ± 4.2% and reduced the activity of elastase by 32.6 ± 1.4%. Therefore, we investigated the mechanisms by which IPE exerts its anti-photoaging activity. IPE at 1 μg/mL led to an increase in type I procollagen expression and increased total collagen synthesis in fibroblasts at 5 μg/mL. We found that IPE inhibited MMP-1, MMP-3, and MMP-9 expression at doses of 1, 5, and 10 μg/mL, respectively, in fibroblasts exposed to UV irradiation (40 mJ/cm2). Gelatin zymography assay showed that IPE at 50 μg/mL inhibited MMP-9 secretion/activity in cultured fibroblasts after UVB exposure. In addition, IPE inhibited the phosphorylation of p38, ERK, and JNK induced by UVB. Furthermore, IPE inhibited the UVB-induced expression of Smad7. In addition, IPE at 1 μg/mL inhibited NO production and COX-2 expression in UV-exposed fibroblasts. These findings show that IPE exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-photoaging activities, indicating that IPE could be a potential anti-aging agent.
Cigarette-Smoke-Induced Dysregulation of MicroRNA Expression and Its Role in Lung Carcinogenesis
Authors: Russ Rebecca , Slack Frank J.
Published: December 2011

Dysregulation of microRNAs (miRNAs), particularly their downregulation, has been widely shown to be associated with the development of lung cancer. Downregulation of miRNAs leads to the overactivation of their oncogene targets, while upregulation of some miRNAs leads to inhibition of important tumor suppressors. Research has implicated cigarette smoke in miRNA dysregulation, leading to carcinogenesis. Cigarette smoke may lead to genetic or epigenetic damage to miRNAs, many of which map to fragile sites and some of which contain single nucleotide polymorphisms. Cigarette smoke may also cause dysregulation by affecting regulatory mechanisms controlling miRNA expression. Researchers have shown a correlation between smoke-exposure-induced dysregulation of miRNAs and age. Furthermore, dysregulation seems to be associated with intensity and duration of smoke exposure and duration of cessation. Longer exposure at a threshold level is needed for irreversibility of changes in expression. Better understanding of miRNA dysregulation may allow for improved biomonitoring and treatment regimens for lung cancer.
Nucleotide-Binding Oligomerization Domain-1 and -2 Play No Role in ControllingBrucella abortusInfection in Mice
Authors: Oliveira Fernanda S. , Carvalho Natalia B. , Zamboni Dario S. , Oliveira Sergio C.
Published: December 2011

Nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain proteins (NODs) are modular cytoplasmic proteins implicated in the recognition of peptidoglycan-derived molecules. Further, severalin vivostudies have demonstrated a role for Nod1 and Nod2 in host defense against bacterial pathogens. Here, we demonstrated that macrophages from NOD1-, NOD2-, and Rip2-deficient mice produced lower levels of TNF-αfollowing infection with liveBrucella abortuscompared to wild-type mice. Similar reduction on cytokine synthesis was not observed for IL-12 and IL-6. However, NOD1, NOD2, and Rip2 knockout mice were no more susceptible to infection with virulentB. abortusthan wild-type mice. Additionally, spleen cells from NOD1-, NOD2-, and Rip2-deficient mice showed unaltered production of IFN-γcompared to C57BL/6 mice. Taken together, this study demonstrates that NOD1, NOD2 and Rip2 are dispensable for the control ofB. abortusduringin vivoinfection.
Coexistence of PIK3CA and Other Oncogene Mutations in Lung Adenocarcinoma–Rationale for Comprehensive Mutation Profiling
Authors: Chaft Jamie E. , Arcila Maria E. , Paik Paul K. , Lau Christopher , Riely Gregory J. , Pietanza M. Catherine , Zakowski Maureen F. , Rusch Valerie , Sima Camelia S. , Ladanyi Marc , Kris Mark G.
Published: December 2011

Phosphoinositide-3-kinase catalytic alpha polypeptide (PIK3CA) encodes the p110α subunit of the mitogenic signaling protein phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K). PIK3CA mutations in the helical binding domain and the catalytic subunit of the protein have been associated with tumorigenesis and treatment resistance in various malignancies. Characteristics of patients with PIK3CA-mutant lung adenocarcinomas have not been reported. We examined epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), Kirsten rate sarcoma viral oncogene homolog (KRAS), v-Raf murine sarcoma viral oncogene homolog B1 (BRAF), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), PIK3CA, v-akt murine thymoma vial oncogene homolog 1 (AKT1), v-ras neuroblastoma viral oncogene homolog (NRAS), dual specificity mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 1 (MEK1), and anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) in patients with adenocarcinoma of the lung to identify driver mutations. Clinical data were obtained from the medical records of individuals with mutations in PIK3CA. Twenty-three of 1,125 (2%, 95% CI: 1–3) patients had a mutation in PIK3CA, 12 in exon 9 (10 E545K and 2 E542K), and 11 in exon 20 (3 H1047L and 8 H1047R). The patients (57% women) had a median age of 66 at diagnosis (range: 34–78). Eight patients (35%) were never smokers. Sixteen of 23 (70%, 95% CI: 49–86) had coexisting mutations in other oncogenes—10 KRAS, 1 MEK1, 1 BRAF, 1 ALK rearrangement, and 3 EGFR exon 19 deletions. We conclude that PIK3CA mutations occur in lung adenocarcinomas, usually concurrently with EGFR, KRAS, and ALK. The impact of PIK3CA mutations on the efficacy of targeted therapies such as erlotinib and crizotinib is unknown. Given the high frequency of overlapping mutations, comprehensive genotyping should be carried out on tumor specimens from patients enrolling in clinical trials of PI3K and other targeted therapies. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(2); 485–91. ©2011 AACR.
Apoptosis and Expression of the Bcl-2 Family of Proteins and P53 in Human Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Dong , Zheng Xuefeng , Kang Dalu , Yan Bomin , Liu Xiaoyi , Gao Yuan , Zhang Kejun
Published: December 2011

Objective: The purpose of this study was to clarify the association between P53 and the Bcl-2 family (Bcl-2, Bax, Bcl-xL, Bcl-xS) expression and apoptosis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Subjects and Methods: A total of 70 patients with PDAC were studied. The expression of P53 protein in PDAC was assessed using the immunohistochemical method, which categorized the PDAC patients into two groups: group 1: 36 cases with immunonegative P53(–), and group 2: 34 cases with immunopositive P53(+). The expression of Bcl-2, Bax, Bcl-xL, and Bcl-xS in the 70 PDAC cases was detected by immunohistochemical and Western blotting methods. The apoptotic index (AI) was also measured in these samples by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP-biotin nick end labeling (TUNEL) method. The relation between P53 and the Bcl-2 protein family and apoptosis was then evaluated. Results: Bcl-2 and Bcl-xS expression was significantly associated with P53 (p < 0.05). No clear associations were found among P53, Bax and Bcl-xL expression (p > 0.05). The AI of groups 1 and 2 was 12.1 ± 2.47 and 8.1 ± 1.48, respectively (p = 0.023). There was no relationship between AI and Bcl-2, Bax, Bcl-xL and Bcl-xS expression (p > 0.05, respectively). Bcl-2/Bax ratio was significantly associated with AI (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Bcl-2 and Bcl-xS represent significant anti- and proapoptotic proteins, respectively, modulated through a P53-dependent pathway in PDAC, and P53 modulated apoptosis mainly through Bcl-2/Bax ratio.
Acute Brucellosis with Myelodysplastic Syndrome Presenting as Pancytopenia and Fever of Unknown Origin
Authors: Li Jun-Jie , Sheng Zi-Ke , Tu Sheng , Bi Sheng , Shen Xiao-Min , Sheng Ji-Fang
Published: December 2011

Objective: To report a rare case of brucellosis with myelo-dysplastic syndrome (MDS). Clinical Presentation and Intervention: A 70-year-old woman presented with pancytopenia and fever of unknown origin (FUO). The initial diagnosis was brucellosis; the woman was treated with doxycycline and rifampin against Brucella melitensis but was later diagnosed as suffering from MDS. She was immediately transferred to the Department of Hematology for further evaluation. Conclusion: This study highlights the rarity of brucellosis with MDS, and we recommend that brucellosis with MDS be considered in patients presenting with pancytopenia and FUO.
Akt1–Mediated Skeletal Muscle Growth Attenuates Cardiac Dysfunction and Remodeling After Experimental Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Araki Satoshi , Izumiya Yasuhiro , Hanatani Shinsuke , Rokutanda Taku , Usuku Hiroki , Akasaki Yuichi , Takeo Toru , Nakagata Naomi , Walsh Kenneth , Ogawa Hisao
Published: December 2011

Background—

It is appreciated that aerobic endurance exercise can attenuate unfavorable myocardial remodeling following myocardial infarction. In contrast, little is known about the effects of increasing skeletal muscle mass, typically achieved through resistance training, on this process. Here, we utilized transgenic (TG) mice that can induce the growth of functional skeletal muscle by switching Akt1 signaling in muscle fibers to assess the impact of glycolytic muscle growth on post-myocardial infarction cardiac remodeling.

Methods and Results—

Male-noninduced TG mice and their nontransgenic littermates (control) were subjected to left anterior coronary artery ligation. Two days after surgery, mice were provided doxycycline in their drinking water to activate Akt1 transgene expression in a skeletal muscle-specific manner. Myogenic Akt1 activation led to diminished left ventricular dilation and reduced contractile dysfunction compared with control mice. Improved cardiac function in Akt1 TG mice was coupled to diminished myocyte hypertrophy, decreased interstitial fibrosis, and increased capillary density. ELISA and protein array analyses demonstrated that serum levels of proangiogenic growth factors were upregulated in Akt1 TG mice compared with control mice. Cardiac eNOS was activated in Akt1 TG mice after myocardial infarction. The protective effect of skeletal muscle Akt activation on cardiac remodeling and systolic function was abolished by treatment with the eNOS inhibitor
l
-NAME.

Conclusions—

Akt1–mediated skeletal muscle growth attenuates cardiac remodeling after myocardial infarction and is associated with an increased capillary density in the heart. This improvement appears to be mediated by skeletal muscle to cardiac communication, leading to activation of eNOS-signaling in the heart.
Social Environment, Genes, and Aggression
Authors: Simons Ronald L. , Lei Man Kit , Beach Steven R. H. , Brody Gene H. , Philibert Robert A. , Gibbons Frederick X.
Published: December 2011

Although gene by environment studies are typically based on the assumption that some individuals possess genetic variants that enhance their vulnerability to environmental adversity, the differential susceptibility perspective posits that these individuals are simply more susceptible to environmental influence than others. An important implication of this perspective is that individuals most vulnerable to adverse social environments are the same ones who reap the most benefit from environmental support. Using longitudinal data from a sample of several hundred African Americans, we found that relatively common variants of the dopamine receptor gene and the serotonin transporter gene interact with social conditions to predict aggression in a manner consonant with the differential susceptibility perspective. When social conditions were adverse, individuals with these genetic variants manifested more aggression than other genotypes, whereas when the environment was favorable they demonstrated less aggression than other genotypes. Furthermore, we found that these genetic variants interact with environmental conditions to foster schemas and emotions consistent with the differential susceptibility perspective and that a latent construct formed by these schemas and emotions mediates the gene by environment interaction on aggression.
Cultural Reception and Production
Authors: Childress C. Clayton , Friedkin Noah E.
Published: December 2011

Investigations of the reception of textual objects have alternately emphasized demographically conditioned patterns of evaluation and taste, or the agency of viewers, readers, and listeners in constructing their own cultural interpretations. In the present article, we advance an empirical and formal analysis of the cultural reception of texts in which interpretations of the multiple dimensions on which a text may be evaluated are transmitted and modified within small groups of individuals in face-to-face contact. We contribute an approach in which the intersection of social structure, individual readings, and interactive group processes all may enter into readers’ interpretations of a novel. Our investigation focuses on a set of book clubs for which we collected data on group members’ pre- and post-discussion evaluations of a specific book, and the interpersonal influence networks that were formed during the groups’ discussions. We analyze these data with a multilevel model of individuals nested in groups, which allows us to address the effects of structure and group dynamics on cultural reception in a single analytic framework.
The link between land-use management and fluvial flood risk
Authors: Pattison Ian , Lane Stuart N.
Published: December 2011

There is much policy interest in the possible linkages that might exist between land use and downstream fluvial flood risk. On the one hand, this position is sustained by observations from plot- and field-scale studies that suggest land management does affect runoff. On the other, upscaling these effects to show that land-management activities impact upon flood risk at larger catchment scales has proved to be elusive. This review considers the reasons for why this upscaling is problematic. We argue that, rather than it reflecting methodological challenges associated with the difficulties of modelling hydrological processes over very large areas and during extreme runoff events, it reflects the fact that any linkage between land management and flood risk cannot be generalized and taken out of its specific spatial (catchment) and temporal (flood event) context. We use Sayer’s (1992) notion of a ‘chaotic conception’ to describe the belief that there is a simple and general association between land management and downstream flood risk rather than the impacts of land management being spatially and temporally contingent in relation to the particular geographical location, time period and scale being considered. Our argument has important practical consequences because it implies that land-management activities to reduce downstream flood risk will be different to traditional flood-reduction interventions such as levees. The purpose of demonstration projects then needs careful consideration such that conclusions made for one project are not transferred uncritically to other scales of analysis or geographical locations.
Demystifying trust: Experimental evidence from Cambodia and Thailand
Authors: English William
Published: December 2011

We report the results of a trust survey and public goods experiment conducted with high school students in rural Thailand and Cambodia that together help clarify the dynamics at work in sustaining economic cooperation within these two third-world communities. We find that standard survey measures of trust employed by the World Values Survey, which form the basis of most macro-empirical investigations of trust and political-economic development, are not useful for predicting contributions to a public goods game. Expectations, on the other hand, profoundly influence contributions and do so independently of trust levels. However, this influence is complex and depends on the distribution of player types. We observe a distribution similar to previous studies, with the largest group, principled reciprocators, updating their behavior quickly based on expectations of trustworthiness. Indeed, this study suggests that trustworthiness in particular is more important than trust in general and further challenges ‘a-rational’ theories of trust.
Influences of climate, cattle density, and lake morphology on Sporormiella abundances in modern lake sediments in the US Great Plains
Authors: Parker Nancy E , Williams John W
Published: December 2011

Sporormiella, a genus of coprophilous fungus, is increasingly used as a qualitative proxy for megafaunal density. Decreased spore abundances in Late-Pleistocene and Holocene sediments are thought to signal prehistoric megafaunal population declines and extinctions. However, much remains unknown regarding the dispersal, deposition, and preservation of Sporormiella, hindering interpretation. Here we collected lake-center and lake-margin surface-sediment samples from 24 lakes in a west–east transect across South Dakota, Minnesota, and Wisconsin to test whether Sporormiella abundances varied along a precipitation gradient and areas of varying grazing intensity. Unlike other pollen types, relative abundances and concentrations of Sporormiella spores were uncorrelated between lake-center and lake-margin samples. For lake-margin samples, distance-to-shoreline and county-scale cattle density were significant predictors of Sporormiella relative abundances. Only distance to shoreline was a significant predictor of Sporormiella concentrations. The positive relationship between shoreline proximity and Sporormiella abundances differs from prior reports that Sporormiella concentrations decrease away from shoreline. For lake-center samples, Sporormiella relative abundances were negatively correlated with precipitation and Sporormiella concentrations had no significant predictors. These results suggest that Sporormiella representation in lake sediments is controlled by multiple factors, including but not limited to local megaherbivore density. Sporormiella concentrations appear to be ‘noisier’ than Sporormiella relative abundances, due to within-basin sedimentary effects on pollen and spore accumulation rates. More work on Sporormiella taphonomy is critically needed to better understand the controls on its representation in late-Quaternary sediments.
Honk if you like minorities: Vuvuzela attitudes predict outgroup liking
Authors: Gaither Sarah E , Sommers Samuel R
Published: December 2011

The 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa generated extensive controversy over spectators’ use of the African vuvuzela trumpet. We asked 123 White American participants about their opinions of vuvuzelas as well as their attitudes towards a variety of racial/ethnic minority groups including immigrants, African Americans, and Latinos. We found that the less participants liked vuvuzelas, the less positively they also tended to feel toward minority groups. Furthermore, respondents who liked vuvuzelas the least were also less generally open to change. These findings suggest that the vuvuzela controversy was about more than just a plastic trumpet – it was also an episode of differential ingroup/outgroup perceptions and a lack of openness to new things.
Reflection of coupled generalized temperature rate dependent thermoelastic waves on a half space
Authors: Gupta N Das , Lahiri A , Das NC
Published: December 2011

A two-dimensional generalized thermoelastic model of the problem of reflection of P- and SV-waves on a half space of thermally conducting isotropic elastic material has been considered based on the Green–Lindsay theory. Ratios of reflection coefficients have been calculated for different cases and the results compared with the existing literature are presented in graphs.
Sandwich composites made of syntactic foam core and paper skin: Manufacturing and mechanical behavior
Authors: Islam Md Mainul , Kim Ho Sung
Published: December 2011

Novel sandwich composites made of syntactic foam core and paper skin were developed as potential building materials. Interface bonding between core and skin was controlled by varying starch content. Two different microsphere size groups were employed for syntactic foam core manufacturing based on the pre-mold processing method. Properties of skin paper with starch adhesive on were found to be affected by drying time of starch adhesive. Mechanical behavior of manufactured sandwich composites in relation with properties of constituent materials was studied. Skin paper contributed to increase up to 40% in estimated flexural strength over syntactic foams, depending on starch content in adhesive between syntactic foam core and paper skin. Small microsphere size group for syntactic foam core was found to be advantageous in strengthening of sandwich composites for a given starch content in adhesive. This finding was in agreement with calculated values of estimated shear stress at interface between skin and core. Failure process of the sandwich composites was discussed in relation with load–deflection curves. Cracking of syntactic foam core was detected to be the first event in sandwich composite failure sequence. Hygroscopic behavior of syntactic foam panels was investigated. Moisture content in the foam was measured to be high for high starch content in the foam panels. No significant moisture effect on flexural strength of syntactic foam panels after being subjected to moisture about 2 months was found for both microsphere size groups. However, substantial decrease (28%) in flexural modulus was found for the foam panels made of large microspheres although not much moisture effect was found on that of small microspheres.
Eclipsing adaptation: The translation of the US MBA model in China
Authors: Lamb Peter , Currie Graeme
Published: December 2011

The aim of this article is to explore how business schools in China have acted upon calls for greater adaptation of the US MBA model. Scandinavian institutionalism’s concept of translation as a process was employed to make sense of how such normative demands for translation have been accommodated across five case studies. Our findings demonstrate that the normative pressures for adaptation of the MBA on the basis of cultural relativism are not sufficient for significant adaptation. In contrast to other studies of the circulation of ideas and models we found that packaging changed slightly, but form and practice remained largely unchanged. Our conclusion is that the influence of market logic has eclipsed the normative calls for adaptation, resulting in the copying and adoption of the US MBA model.