bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hippocampal EEG in Rats after Chronic Toluene Inhalation
Authors: Naalsund Liv Unni
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Sixteen rats were chronically implanted with bipolar electrodes in the hippocampal regions containing cells generating electric θ‐activity. The animals were devided into 4 groups of which 2 were exposed to 500 p.p.m. of toluene in inhalation chambers, for 8 or 16 hours per day for 5 days per week in 12 weeks respectively, and 2 served as controls. The hippocampal electric activity was recorded 48 hours after each weekly exposure, ensuring a minimal amount of toluene in the tissue during the recordings. EEG‐recordings were read blindly by two experienced scientists, and the frequency of θ‐waves in the exposed groups were compared to their respective control group at each recording by Student's t‐test. Frequencies of θ‐activity in the exposed groups were found to differ from their respective control group by variance analysis. Each point on the frequency versus time plot were further analysed by Student's t‐test. Compared to the non‐exposed group the eight hours daily exposed group showed an initial period of increased frequency of the regular θ‐waves together with an increased incidence of θ‐activity after 1–2 weeks of exposure. In the sixteen hours daily exposed rats two weeks of toluene inhalation produced a significant reduction in the θ‐wave frequency. This change was also reached after eight weeks of exposure in the eight hours daily exposed group. At this moment the θ‐activity was frequently disrupted by short amplitude irregular waves, a phenomen which increased gradually throughout the rest of the exposure period. The average blood concentration of toluene was 16.7 μg/ml and 17.7 μg/ml and not significantly different for the eight and sixteen hours exposed groups respectively.
Effect of Prolonged Treatment with Neuroleptics on Dopamine D‐1 and D‐2 Receptor Density in Corpus Striatum of Mice
Authors: Hyttel John
Published: July 2010

Abstract: The effects of long‐term treatment with neuroleptics on D‐1 and D‐2 receptor parameters in corpus striatum were studied in mice. Mice were treated daily for 12 days with the selective D‐1 antagonist, the benzazepine SCH 23390, the mixed D‐1/D‐2 antagonist zuclopenthixol or the selective D‐2 antagonist haloperidol. Three days after withdrawal Bmax and KD for 3H‐SCH 23390 binding to D‐1 receptors and 3H‐spiperone binding to D‐2 receptors were determined. The study showed that the density of D‐2 receptors increased after haloperidol whereas no changes were seen after SCH 23390 or zuclopenthixol. No changes in D‐1‐receptor density were seen after either treatment. The results are in full agreement with published behavioural results where haloperidol induces tolerance whereas SCH 23390 or zuclopenthixol do not. Some changes in KD values were seen. The cause and meaning of these changes await further investigation.
Calcium Channel blockers: Spectrum of Side Effects and Drug Interactions
Authors: Hedner Thomas
Published: July 2010

Abstract: Calcium antagonists are a chemically heterogenous group of agents with potent cardiovascular effects which are beneficial in the treatment of angina pectoris, arterial hypertension and cardiac arrhythmias.

The main side effects for the group are dose‐dependent and the result of the main action or actions of the calcium antagonists, i.e. vasodilatation, negative inotropic effects and antiarrhythmic effects. Pronounced hypotension is reported for the main calcium antagonist drugs; verapamil, diltiazem and nifedipine. While conduction disturbances and bradycardia are seen more often after verapamil and diltiazem, tachycardia, headache and flush are more frequent after nifedipine. Constipation is relatively frequent after verapamil while nifedipine is reported to induce diarrhea in som patients.

Idiosyncratic side effects are rare but have been reported from the skin, mouth, musculoskeletal system, the liver and the central nervous system. These side effects include urticarial rashes, gingival hyperplasia, arthralgia, hepathotoxicity and transistory mental confusion or akathisia. Verapamil, diltiazem and possibly also nifedipine have been reported to increase serum digoxin concentrations but the clinical relevance of these drug interactions are not clear. Furthermore, verapamil and diltiazem may potentiate the effects of β‐adrenergic blocking drugs and verapamil may also potentiate the effects of neuromuscular blocking drugs.

It is concluded that side effects after calcium antagonist drugs are mostly trivial and transient although they may sometimes be relatively common. Clinically relevant drug interactions are few. Judged from the point of efficacy and safety, calcium antagonists will have a major place in the future pharmacotherapy of several cardiovascular disorders.
Nitroglycerin and arterial compliance
Authors: Westling Håkan , Andersson Helén
Published: July 2010

Abstract:The primary effect of nitrates on the circulatory system is a relaxation of capacitance vessels on the venous and arterial side, while dilatation of resistance vessels (arterioles) is a secondary phenomenon, or occurs only at higher doses. Relaxation of arteries may augment flow in conditions where these vessels offer an increased resistance due to e.g. spasm. Relaxation of capacitance arteries explains in part the lower systolic blood pressure after nitroglycerin. Improved “Windkessel” function may augment diastolic arterial pressure and thus improve coronary perfusion.

Some methods for measuring arterial compliance are described. It is suggested that more simple measurements of arterial pulsations may be used for studying nitroglycerin tolerance.
TRACE METALS AND DEGENERATIVE DISEASES OF THE SKELETON
Authors: Savory J. , Bertholf R. L. , Wills M. R.
Published: July 2010

Abstract Aluminum related osteodystrophy is the most important manifestion of trace metal toxicity related to degenerative diseases of the skeleton. Aluminum overload occurs in chronic renal failure patients on hemodialysis treatment and results from transfer from dialysis solutions and from oral intake of aluminum containing phosphate binding gels. Laboratory diagnosis involves serum and bone analysis and bone staining for aluminum. A challenge test with desferoxamine also aids in the diagnosis. Electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry is widely used for aluminum detection. Guidelines for toxic concentrations of aluminum have been established.
Aerobic fitness in prepubertal children according to level of body fat
Authors: Dencker Magnus , Bugge Anna , Hermansen Bianca , Froberg Karsten , Andersen Lars B
Published: July 2010

Aim:  The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between maximum oxygen uptake (VO2PEAK) and body fat in young children on a population‐based level.

Methods:  Participants were 586 children (311 boys and 275 girls) aged 6.8 ± 0.4 years, recruited from a population‐based cohort. VO2PEAK was measured by indirect calorimetry during a maximal exercise test. Percent body fat (BF%) was estimated from skinfold measurements.

Results:  Significant relationships existed between BF% and absolute values of VO2PEAK (mL/min), VO2PEAK scaled by body weight (mL/min/kg) and VO2PEAK by allometric scaling (mL/min/kg0.71), whereas no relationships were detected for VO2PEAK scaled to fat‐free mass (FFM) (mL/min/FFM). Person correlation coefficients for boys were 0.26, −0.38, −0.19 and −0.01 NS and for girls 0.33, −0.42, −0.21 and −0.03 NS, respectively. Significant differences in VO2PEAK existed between different quartiles of BF%, with the exception when VO2PEAK was scaled to FFM.

Conclusion:  Our findings document the coexistence of two known risk factors for disease at a young age on a population‐base and confirms that VO2PEAK was scaled to FFM represents a body fat independent way of expressing fitness.
Diterpene production in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Prach Lisa , Kirby James , Keasling Jay D. , Alber Tom
Published: July 2010

Diterpenes are a structurally diverse class of molecules common in plants, although they are very rarely found in bacteria. We report the identification in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) of three diterpenes proposed to promote phagolysosome maturation arrest. MS analysis reveals that these diterpenes are novel compounds not previously identified in other organisms. The diterpene with highest abundance in Mtb has a mass fragmentation pattern identical to edaxadiene, which is produced in vitro from geranylgeranyl diphosphate by the enzymes Rv3377c and Rv3378c. A second diterpene found in Mtb has a similar mass spectrum, and is always observed in the same proportion relative to edaxadiene, indicating that it is a side product of the Rv3378c reaction in vivo. We name this second diterpene olefin edaxadiene B. The least abundant of the three diterpenes in Mtb extracts is tuberculosinol, a dephosphorylated side‐product of the edaxadiene pathway intermediate produced by Rv3377c. A frameshift in Rv3377c in Mtb completely eliminates diterpene production, whereas expression of Rv3377c and Rv3378c in the nonpathogenic M. smegmatis is sufficient to produce edaxadiene and edaxadiene B. These studies define the pathway of edaxadiene and edaxadiene B biosynthesis in vivo. Rv3377c and Rv3378c are unique to Mtb and M. bovis, making them candidates for selective therapeutics and diagnostics.
Diagnosing myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms: laboratory testing strategies to exclude other disorders
Authors: HALL J. , FOUCAR K.
Published: July 2010

Introduction:  The 2008 World Health Organization classification of myeloid neoplasms includes the diagnostic category, myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasms (MDS/MPN), which encompasses those rare clonal myeloid proliferations that at initial presentation, show overlapping myeloproliferative and myelodysplastic features, making classification as either a myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) or myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) problematic. There are four main subcategories, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia (CMML), atypical chronic myeloid leukemia, BCR‐ABL1‐negative (aCML), juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML), and myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative neoplasm, unclassifiable (MDS/MPN‐U), which also includes the provisional entity, refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts associated with marked thrombocytosis (RARS‐T). Notably, the morphological features typical of MDS/MPNs are not specific and can be seen in other myeloid neoplasms at presentation or as part of disease progression or transformation.

Methods and Results:  This review presents a laboratory approach to diagnosing MDS/MPNs in adults that allows for the exclusion of other disorders that may be otherwise indistinguishable. Ancillary studies including cytochemistry, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and genetic testing are discussed.

Conclusion:  The most appropriate classification of myeloid neoplasms presenting with hybrid myelodysplastic/myeloproliferative features requires a comprehensive clinical and laboratory assessment with careful integration of the morphological, immunophenotypic, genetic, and clinical characteristics.
Increased Mortality Associated With Low Use of Clopidogrel in Patients With Heart Failure and Acute Myocardial Infarction Not Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Harris Scott , Tepper David , Ip Randy
Published: July 2010

Abstract.  Objectives. We studied the association of clopidogrel with mortality in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) patients with heart failure (HF) not receiving percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background. Use of clopidogrel after AMI is low in patients with HF, despite the fact that clopidogrel is associated with absolute mortality reduction in AMI patients.

Methods. All patients hospitalized with first‐time AMI (2000 through 2005) and not undergoing PCI within 30 days from discharge were identified in national registers. Patients with HF treated with clopidogrel were matched by propensity score with patients not treated with clopidogrel. Similarly, 2 groups without HF were identified. Risks of all‐cause death were obtained by the Kaplan–Meier method and Cox regression analyses.

Results. We identified 56,944 patients with first‐time AMI. In the matched cohort with HF (n=5050) and a mean follow‐up of 1.50 years (SD=1.2), 709 (28.1%) and 812 (32.2%) deaths occurred in patients receiving and not receiving clopidogrel treatment, respectively (P=.002). The corresponding numbers for patients without HF (n=6092), with a mean follow‐up of 2.05 years (SD=1.3), were 285 (9.4%) and 294 (9.7%), respectively (P=.83). Patients with HF receiving clopidogrel demonstrated reduced mortality (hazard ratio, 0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.78–0.95) compared with patients with HF not receiving clopidogrel. No difference was observed among patients without HF (hazard ratio, 0.98; 95% confidence interval, 0.83–1.16).

Conclusions. Clopidogrel was associated with reduced mortality in patients with HF who do not undergo PCI after their first‐time AMI, whereas this association was not apparent in patients without HF. Further studies of the benefit of clopidogrel in patients with HF and AMI are warranted.—Bonde L, Sorensen R, Fosbol EL, et al. Increased mortality associated with low use of clopidogrel in patients with heart failure and acute myocardial infarction not undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: a nationwide study. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2010;55:1300–1307.
International institutions in a global economy
Authors: Volcker Paul
Published: July 2010

Abstract. Global economic integration has increased tremendously. But the political instinct to think globally has eroded. This is a particular problem in the context of the world economy's worrying dependence on American spending and Chinese saving and volatile exchange rates. We need heightened international coordination on currencies and, in the long run, perhaps a global currency.
Indocyanine green increases light‐induced oxidative stress, senescence, and matrix metalloproteinases 1 and 3 in human RPE cells
Authors: Kernt Marcus , Hirneiss Christoph , Wolf Armin , Liegl Raffael , Rueping Johann , Neubauer Aljoscha , Alge Claudia , Ulbig Michael , Gandorfer Arndt , Kampik Anselm , Haritoglou Christos
Published: July 2010

Purpose:  Indocyanine green (ICG) is a commonly used vital dye for macular surgery. Recent reports implicate that its use might be associated with less favourable results regarding postoperative visual outcome and damage of retinal cells, and atrophic degeneration of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) has been described. This study investigates the effects of ICG on light‐induced senescence of RPE cells.

Methods:  Primary human RPE cells were either pre‐incubated with ICG in concentrations of 0.005% and 0.05% or not and then exposed to white light. After 10 min of irradiation viability, induction of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and senescence‐associated β‐galactosidase activity (SA β‐Gal) were determined. Expression and secretion of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 1 and 3 and their mRNA were determined by RT‐PCR and ELISA.

Results:  Light exposure decreased RPE cell viability by 46%. Treatment with 0.005% and 0.05% ICG alone decreased RPE cell viability by 7% and 21%. In addition, expression of ROS, SA β‐Gal, and MMP‐1 and 3 was significantly increased. When 0.005% and 0.05% ICG treatments were combined with light exposure, viability decreased by 69% and 82% compared to the untreated control. Effects on the expression of ROS, SA β‐Gal, and MMP‐1 and 3 were, depending on the ICG dose, significantly increased when cells were pre‐incubated with ICG and then illuminated.

Conclusion:  In this study, pretreatment with ICG significantly increased light‐induced oxidative stress and senescence. This might indicate a potential, supplementary mechanism that could explain RPE alterations and reduced functional results after ICG‐assisted internal limiting membrane peeling.
Considerations for the Design of Solar-Thermal Chemical Processes
Authors: Martinek Janna , Channel Melinda , Lewandowski Allan , Weimer Alan W.
Published: July 2010

A methodology is presented for the design of solar thermal chemical processes. The solar receiver efficiency for the high temperature step, defined herein as the ratio of the enthalpy change resulting from the process occurring in the receiver to the solar energy input, is limited by the solar energy absorption efficiency. When using this definition of receiver efficiency, both the optimal reactor temperature for a given solar concentration ratio and the solar concentration required to achieve a given temperature and efficiency shift to lower values than those dictated by the Carnot limitation on the system efficiency for the conversion of heat to work. Process and solar field design considerations were investigated for ZnO and NiFe2O4 “ferrite” spinel water splitting cycles with concentration ratios of roughly 2000, 4000, and 8000 suns to assess the implications of using reduced solar concentration. Solar field design and determination of field efficiency were accomplished using ray trace modeling of the optical components. Annual solar efficiency increased while heliostat area decreased with increasing concentration due to shading and blocking effects. The heliostat fields designed using system efficiency for the conversion of heat to work were found to be overdesigned by up to 21% compared with those designed using the receiver efficiency alone. Overall efficiencies of 13–20% were determined for a “ferrite” based water splitting process with thermal reduction conversions in the range of 35–100%.
Impacts of Climate Change in Degree Days and Energy Demand in Coastal California
Authors: Lebassi B. , González J. E. , Fabris D. , Bornstein R.
Published: July 2010

An analysis of 1970–2005 observed summer daily maximum and minimum temperatures in two California air basins showed concurrent daytime coastal cooling and inland warming. To study the impacts of these results on energy consumption, summer cooling degree day (CDD) and winter heating degree day (HDD) trends were analyzed via these temperatures. The 2 m level air temperatures consisted of data from 159 locations in California, each with daily minimum and maximum values. Primary data sources included Cooperative Weather Station Network sites, first order National Weather Service stations, and military weather stations. An analysis of the CDD and HDD data has been undertaken for California, in general, and the San Francisco Bay Area and South Coast Air Basin, in particular, as the source of data for an analysis of energy-demand trends. Regional climate fluctuations have considerable effects on surface temperatures, which in turn affect CDD and HDD values. An asymmetric increase in summer CDD values between coastal and inland regions of California was found during the last 35 years, while winter HDD values showed decreases in most of California. In general, coastal areas experienced decreases of CDD, while inland regions experienced increases. The summer asymmetric increases in CDD is attributed to intensified sea breeze flows, which suggests increases in cold marine air intrusions over coastal land masses due to an increased regional sea breeze potential, which ventilates coastal areas, helps reduce maximum temperatures, and contributes to CDD decreases. An analysis of energy demands in the two air basins supports these climatological findings.
Finite Element Modeling of the Influence of Hand Position and Bone Properties on the Colles’ Fracture Load During a Fall
Authors: Buchanan Drew , Ural Ani
Published: July 2010

Distal forearm fracture is one of the most frequently observed osteoporotic fractures, which may occur as a result of low energy falls such as falls from a standing height and may be linked to the osteoporotic nature of the bone, especially in the elderly. In order to prevent the occurrence of radius fractures and their adverse outcomes, understanding the effect of both extrinsic and intrinsic contributors to fracture risk is essential. In this study, a nonlinear fracture mechanics-based finite element model is applied to human radius to assess the influence of extrinsic factors (load orientation and load distribution between scaphoid and lunate) and intrinsic bone properties (age-related changes in fracture properties and bone geometry) on the Colles’ fracture load. Seven three-dimensional finite element models of radius were created, and the fracture loads were determined by using cohesive finite element modeling, which explicitly represented the crack and the fracture process zone behavior. The simulation results showed that the load direction with respect to the longitudinal and dorsal axes of the radius influenced the fracture load. The fracture load increased with larger angles between the resultant load and the dorsal axis, and with smaller angles between the resultant load and longitudinal axis. The fracture load also varied as a function of the load ratio between the lunate and scaphoid, however, not as drastically as with the load orientation. The fracture load decreased as the load ratio (lunate/scaphoid) increased. Multiple regression analysis showed that the bone geometry and the load orientation are the most important variables that contribute to the prediction of the fracture load. The findings in this study establish a robust computational fracture risk assessment method that combines the effects of intrinsic properties of bone with extrinsic factors associated with a fall, and may be elemental in the identification of high fracture risk individuals as well as in the development of fracture prevention methods including protective falling techniques. The additional information that this study brings to fracture identification and prevention highlights the promise of fracture mechanics-based finite element modeling in fracture risk assessment.
Mechanics of the Mitral Valve Strut Chordae Insertion Region
Authors: Padala Muralidhar , Sacks Michael S. , Liou Shasan W. , Balachandran Kartik , He Zhaoming , Yoganathan Ajit P.
Published: July 2010

Interest in developing durable mitral valve repair methods is growing, underscoring the need to better understand the native mitral valve mechanics. In this study, the authors investigate the dynamic deformation of the mitral valve strut chordae-to-anterior leaflet transition zone using a novel stretch mapping method and report the complex mechanics of this region for the first time. Eight structurally normal porcine mitral valves were studied in a pulsatile left heart simulator under physiological hemodynamic conditions −120 mm peak transvalvular pressure, 5 l/min cardiac output at 70 bpm. The chordal insertion region was marked with a structured array of 31 miniature markers, and their motions throughout the cardiac cycle were tracked using two high speed cameras. 3D marker coordinates were calculated using direct linear transformation, and a second order continuous surface was fit to the marker cloud at each time frame. Average areal stretch, principal stretch magnitudes and directions, and stretch rates were computed, and temporal changes in each parameter were mapped over the insertion region. Stretch distribution was heterogeneous over the entire strut chordae insertion region, with the highest magnitudes along the edges of the chordal insertion region and the least along the axis of the strut chordae. At early systole, radial stretch was predominant, but by mid systole, significant stretch was observed in both radial and circumferential directions. The compressive stretches measured during systole indicate a strong coupling between the two principal directions, explaining the small magnitude of the systolic areal stretch. This study for the first time provides the dynamic kinematics of the strut chordae insertion region in the functioning mitral valve. A heterogeneous stretch pattern was measured, with the mechanics of this region governed by the complex underlying collagen architecture. The insertion region seemed to be under stretch during both systole and diastole, indicating a transfer of forces from the leaflets to the chordae and vice versa throughout the cardiac cycle, and demonstrating its role in optimal valve function.
Dynamic Characterization of Human Breast Cancer Cells Using a Piezoresistive Microcantilever
Authors: Shim Sangjo , Kim Man Geun , Jo Kyoungwoo , Kang Yong Seok , Lee Boreum , Yang Sung , Shin Sang-Mo , Lee Jong-Hyun
Published: July 2010

In this paper, frequency response (dynamic compression and recovery) is suggested as a new physical marker to differentiate between breast cancer cells (MCF7) and normal cells (MCF10A). A single cell is placed on the laminated piezoelectric actuator and a piezoresistive microcantilever is placed on the upper surface of the cell at a specified preload displacement (or an equivalent force). The piezoelectric actuator excites the single cell in a sinusoidal fashion and its dynamic deformation is then evaluated from the displacement converted by measuring the voltage output through a piezoresistor in the microcantilever. The microcantilever has a flat contact surface with no sharp tip, making it possible to measure the overall properties of the cell rather than the local properties. These results indicate that the MCF7 cells are more deformable in quasi-static conditions compared with MCF10A cells, consistent with known characteristics. Under conditions of high frequency of over 50 Hz at a 1 μm preload displacement, 1 Hz at a 2 μm preload displacement, and all frequency ranges tested at a 3 μm preload displacement, MCF7 cells showed smaller deformation than MCF10A cells. MCF7 cells have higher absorption than MCF10A cells such that MCF7 cells appear to have higher deformability according to increasing frequency. Moreover, larger preload and higher frequencies are shown to enhance the differences in cell deformability between the MCF7 cells and MCF10A cells, which can be used as a physical marker for differentiating between MCF10A cells and MCF7 cells, even for high-speed screening devices.
Comment on “Patterns of Diversity in Marine Phytoplankton”
Authors: Huisman Jef
Published: July 2010

Barton
et al
. (Reports, 19 March 2010, p. 1509) argued that stable conditions enable neutral coexistence of many phytoplankton species in the tropical oceans, whereas seasonal variation causes low biodiversity in subpolar oceans. However, their model prediction is not robust. A minor deviation from the neutrality assumption favors coexistence in fluctuating rather than stable environments.
Response to Comment on “Patterns of Diversity in Marine Phytoplankton”
Authors: Barton Andrew D. , Dutkiewicz Stephanie , Flierl Glenn , Bragg Jason , Follows Michael J.
Published: July 2010

Huisman argues that environments of intermediate variability promote coexistence of model phytoplankton, apparently contrasting our hypothesis that stability allows for greater diversity of equivalent competitors in the ocean. We argue that our original interpretations of the mechanisms governing model diversity patterns remain valid and that Huisman’s results are complementary to our hypotheses.
Btbd7 Regulates Epithelial Cell Dynamics and Branching Morphogenesis
Authors: Onodera Tomohiro , Sakai Takayoshi , Hsu Jeff Chi-feng , Matsumoto Kazue , Chiorini John A. , Yamada Kenneth M.
Published: July 2010

Epithelial Cleft Formation

The internal architecture of many embryonic organs is established by repetitive branching of epithelia. Epithelial clefts and outgrowths generate this internal branching of glands and other organs.

Onodera
et al.

(p.
562
) identify a gene,
Btbd7
, as a regulator of epithelial dynamics and cleft formation, linking the extracellular matrix with morphogenesis.
Btbd7
is induced by a matrix protein at sites of cleft progression and induces a transcription factor and suppresses cell adhesion. The resulting local cell separation and motility contribute to transient tissue gaps that contribute to clefts that help form branched organs.
Trapped in the Lower Left Quadrant?
Scientific Europe
Policies and Politics of the European Research Area

by Claus Madsen

Multi-Science, Brentwood, Essex, UK, 2010. 252 pp. Paper, £37.50, €45. ISBN 9781907132155.
Authors: Stampfer Michael
Published: July 2010

Drawing heavily on his own experiences, Madsen discusses the development of the European Research Area and obstacles still facing efforts to create a "competitive knowledge-based economy."
Shared Resources
Dead or Alive
Nature Becomes Art

David Revere McFadden, Lowery Sims, and Elizabeth Edwards Kirrane, Curators

Museum of Arts and Design, New York. Through 24 October 2010. Catalog, 2010. 133 pp. $29.95. ISBN 9781890385200. www.madmuseum.org
Authors: Keller Andreas
Published: July 2010

Thirty-seven artists from around the world use insects, bones, silkworm cocoons, and other natural materials to craft installations at the interface between art and science.
Immunodominant Regions of aChlamydia trachomatisType III Secretion Effector Protein, Tarp
Authors: Wang Jie , Zhang Yingqian , Yu Ping , Zhong Guangming
Published: July 2010

We have previously shown that individuals infected withChlamydia trachomatiscan develop a robust antibody response to aChlamydiatype III secretion effector protein called Tarp and that immunization with Tarp induces protection against challenge infection in mice. The current study aimed to map the immunodominant regions of the Tarp protein by expressing 11 fragments of Tarp as glutathioneS-transferase (GST) fusion proteins and detecting the reactivity of these fusion proteins with antisera from patients infected withC. trachomatisin the urogenital tract or in the ocular tissue and from rabbits immunized withC. trachomatisorganisms. A major immunodominant region was strongly recognized by all antibodies. This region covers amino acids 152 to 302, consisting of three repeats (amino acids 152 to 201, 202 to 251, and 252 to 302). Each of the repeats contains multiple tyrosine residues that are phosphorylated by host cell kinases when Tarp is injected into host cells. Several other minor immunodominant regions were also identified, including those comprising amino acids 1 to 156, 310 to 431, and 582 to 682 (recognized by antisera from both humans and rabbits), that comprising amino acids 425 to 581 (recognized only by human antisera), and that comprising amino acids 683 to 847 (preferentially recognized by rabbit antisera). This immunodominance was also confirmed by the observations that six out of the nine monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) bound to the major immunodominant region and that the other three each bound to one of the minor fragments, comprising amino acids 1 to 119, 120 to 151, and 310 to 431. The antigenicity analyses have provided important information for further understanding the structure and function of Tarp.
Nucleic Acid Dipstick Test for Molecular Diagnosis of Pandemic H1N1
Authors: Wu Liang-Ta , Curran Martin D. , Ellis Joanna S. , Parmar Surendra , Ritchie Allyson V. , Sharma Pia I. , Allain Jean-Pierre , Jalal Hamid , Zambon Maria , Lee Helen H.
Published: July 2010

A new nucleic acid amplification-based rapid test for diagnosis of pandemic influenza (H1N1) 2009 virus was developed. The molecular test for pandemic H1N1, SAMBA (simpleamplification-basedassay), is based on isothermal amplification and visual detection on a dipstick characterized by high sensitivity, high specificity, a short turnaround time, and minimal technical requirements. The amplification step is monitored with an internal control to ensure correct interpretation of test results. The clinical performance of this assay was evaluated using blinded RNA samples extracted from nasal/throat swab specimens from 262 patients exhibiting influenza-like illness. Compared with the United Kingdom National Standard Method, based on quantitative reverse transcription-PCR, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the new assay were 95.3% (95% confidence interval, 88.5 to 98.7%), 99.4% (95% confidence interval, 96.9 to 99.9%), 98.8% (95% confidence interval, 93.5 to 99.9%), and 97.8% (95% confidence interval, 94.4 to 99.4%), respectively. The SAMBA for pandemic H1N1 provides a new technology that could potentially facilitate timely diagnosis and management of infected individuals, thereby informing decision making with regard to patient isolation during a pandemic outbreak.
Identification and Analysis of Expression of Novel MicroRNAs of Murine Gammaherpesvirus 68
Authors: Zhu Jia Yun , Strehle Martin , Frohn Anne , Kremmer Elisabeth , Höfig Kai P. , Meister Gunter , Adler Heiko
Published: July 2010

Murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) is closely related to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) and provides a small-animal model with which to study the pathogenesis of gammaherpesvirus (γHV) infections. To completely explore the potential of the MHV-68 system for the investigation of γHV microRNAs (miRNAs), it would be desirable to know the number and expression patterns of all miRNAs encoded by MHV-68. By deep sequencing of small RNAs, we systematically investigated the expression profiles of MHV-68 miRNAs in both lytically and persistently infected cells. In addition to the nine known MHV-68 miRNAs, we identified six novel MHV-68 miRNA genes and analyzed the expression levels of all MHV-68 miRNAs. Furthermore, we also characterized the cellular miRNA expression signatures in MHV-68-infected versus noninfected NIH 3T3 fibroblasts and in 12-
O
-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-treated versus nontreated S11 cells. We found that mmu-mir-15b and mmu-mir-16 are highly upregulated upon MHV-68 infection of NIH 3T3 cells, indicating a potential role for cellular miRNAs during MHV-68 infection. Our data will aid in the full exploration of the functions of γHV miRNAs.
Diarrhoea in the enterally fed patient
Authors: Bowling T E
Published: July 2010

Diarrhoea complicating enteral feeding is very common in all clinical settings. The major risk factor is the use of concomitant antibiotics. The underlying mechanisms for the diarrhoea mainly relate to alterations in the colonic flora and physiological responses to the mode of feed delivery although a clear understanding of what is actually happening in vivo remains elusive. Management of diarrhoea includes rationalising medications, excluding relevant comorbidity and using antidiarrhoeal medications. Altering the method and site of feed delivery—for example, continuous to bolus, gastric to postpyloric—can also be tried in the more difficult cases.
Word wars and tobacco control: saying what needs saying that we don't yet know how to say, or saying it better
Authors: Malone Ruth E
Published: July 2010

To help officially launch theTobacco Control Blog, this month's Editorial has also been posted to the blog and is ready for your comments. The aim of this blog is to stimulate debate, generate ideas and explore new and, at times, controversial ideas. Increasing the opportunities for interaction between readers, authors, and editors is essential to ensuring that the journal remains on the leading edge in today's world of instant and constant digital communication. In keeping with this theme, editor Ruth Malone raises the issue of how important language is in defining and framing the tobacco pandemic and challenges readers to share their own creative ideas for “language weapons.” To entice you to join the conversation and make a suggestion, the best idea will win a one-year online subscription to Tobacco Control.

The TC blog can be found here:http://blogs.bmj.com/tc/We look forward to meeting you there.

Tobacco Control Editorial Team
ANTI-DE SITTER ISLAND-UNIVERSES FROM 5D STANDING WAVES
Authors: GOGBERASHVILI MERAB , SINGLETON DOUGLAS
Published: July 2010

We construct simple standing wave solutions in a 5D spacetime with a ghost-like scalar field. The nodes of these standing waves are "islands" of 4D anti-de Sitter spacetime. In the case of increasing (decreasing) warp factor, there are a finite (infinite) number of nodes and thus a finite (infinite) number of anti-de Sitter island-universes having different gravitational and cosmological constants. This is similar to the landscape models, which postulate a large number of universes with different parameters.
TELEPORTATION AND CONTROLLED TELEPORTATION WITH MAXIMALLY FOUR-QUBIT ENTANGLEMENT QUANTUM STATES
Authors: ZHA XIN-WEI , SONG HAI-YANG
Published: July 2010

Recently Paolo Facchi et al.15 presented a maximally multipartite entangled state (MMES). It is shown that some of these states can be utilized for perfect teleportation of arbitrary two-qubit systems and controlled teleportation of an arbitrary one-qubit state. Furthermore, the optimal match measuring basis are given by transformation operator for controlled teleportation.
PATTERN EFFECT MITIGATION IN HIGH-SPEED ALL-OPTICAL SWITCH BASED ON CROSS-GAIN MODULATION IN TWO SOAs WITH DIFFERENT BANDGAPS
Authors: WANG LI , WANG MUGUANG , LOU SHUQIN , HUANG WEI-PING
Published: July 2010

Two cascaded semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) with different bandgaps are proposed as an all-optical switch based on cross-gain modulation (XGM) to reduce the pattern effect inflicted by a carrier-lifetime-related long-lived gain recovery tail. We numerically investigate the device gain recovery dynamics in such setup excited by 100 Gbit/s pseudorandom return-to-zero control signal at 1520 nm for different probe wavelengths. The preliminary simulation results indicate that the pattern effect in a SOA in which control pulses are localized in gain region can be reduced by a concatenated SOA in which control pulses are situated in the absorption region. This compensation principle is always valid when the bit rate is beyond 100 Gbit/s.
Single-Molecule Nanomagnets
Authors: Friedman Jonathan R. , Sarachik Myriam P.
Published: July 2010

Single-molecule magnets straddle the classical and quantum mechanical worlds, displaying many fascinating phenomena. They may have important technological applications in information storage and quantum computation. We review the physical properties of two prototypical molecular nanomagnets, Mn12-acetate and Fe8: Each behaves as a rigid, spin-10 object and exhibits tunneling between up and down directions. As temperature is lowered, the spin-reversal process evolves from thermal activation to pure quantum tunneling. At low temperatures, magnetic avalanches occur in which the magnetization of an entire sample rapidly reverses. We discuss the important role that symmetry-breaking fields play in driving tunneling and in producing Berry-phase interference. Recent experimental advances indicate that quantum coherence can be maintained on timescales sufficient to allow a meaningful number of quantum computing operations to be performed. Efforts are under way to create monolayers and to address and manipulate individual molecules.
Genetic variants of human organic anion transporter 4 demonstrate altered transport of endogenous substrates
Authors: Shima James E. , Komori Takafumi , Taylor Travis R. , Stryke Doug , Kawamoto Michiko , Johns Susan J. , Carlson Elaine J. , Ferrin Thomas E. , Giacomini Kathleen M.
Published: July 2010

Apical reabsorption from the urine has been shown to be important for such processes as the maintenance of critical metabolites in the blood and the excretion of nephrotoxic compounds. The solute carrier (SLC) transporter OAT4 ( SLC22A11) is expressed on the apical membrane of renal proximal tubule cells and is known to mediate the transport of a variety of xenobiotic and endogenous organic anions. Functional characterization of genetic variants of apical transporters thought to mediate reabsorption, such as OAT4, may provide insight into the genetic factors influencing the complex pathways involved in drug elimination and metabolite reclamation occurring in the kidney. Naturally occurring genetic variants of OAT4 were identified in public databases and by resequencing DNA samples from 272 individuals comprising 4 distinct ethnic groups. Nine total nonsynonymous variants were identified and functionally assessed using uptake of three radiolabeled substrates. A nonsense variant, R48Stop, and three other variants (R121C, V155G, and V155M) were found at frequencies of at least 2% in an ethnic group specific fashion. The L29P, R48Stop, and H469R variants displayed a complete loss of function, and kinetic analysis identified a reduced Vmaxin the common nonsynonymous variants. Plasma membrane levels of OAT4 protein were absent or reduced in the nonfunctional variants, providing a mechanistic reason for the observed loss of function. Characterization of the genetic variants of reabsorptive transporters such as OAT4 is an important step in understanding variability in tubular reabsorption with important implications in innate homeostatic processes and drug disposition.
BDNF and NT-3 Increase Velocity of Activity Front Propagation in Unidimensional Hippocampal Cultures
Authors: Jacobi Shimshon , Soriano Jordi , Moses Elisha
Published: July 2010

Neurotrophins are known to promote synapse development as well as to regulate the efficacy of mature synapses. We have previously reported that in two-dimensional rat hippocampal cultures, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin-3 significantly increase the number of excitatory input connections. Here we measure the effect of these neurotrophic agents on propagating fronts that arise spontaneously in quasi-one-dimensional rat hippocampal cultures. We observe that chronic treatment with BDNF increased the velocity of the propagation front by about 30%. This change is attributed to an increase in the excitatory input connectivity. We analyze the experiment using the Feinerman–Golomb/Ermentrout–Jacobi/Moses–Osan model for the propagation of fronts in a one-dimensional neuronal network with synaptic delay and introduce the synaptic connection probability between adjacent neurons as a new parameter of the model. We conclude that BDNF increases the number of excitatory connections by favoring the probability to form connections between neurons, but without significantly modifying the range of the connections (connectivity footprint).
2D Fast Vessel Visualization Using a Vessel Wall Mask Guiding Fine Vessel Detection
Authors: Raptis Sotirios , Koutsouris Dimitris
Published: July 2010

The paper addresses the fine retinal‐vessel′s detection issue that is faced in diagnostic applications and aims at assisting in better recognizing fine vessel anomalies in 2D. Our innovation relies in separating key visual features vessels exhibit in order to make the diagnosis of eventual retinopathologies easier to detect. This allows focusing on vessel segments which present fine
changes detectable at different sampling scales. We advocate that these changes can be addressed as subsequent stages of the same
vessel detection procedure. We first carry out an initial estimate of the basic vessel‐wall′s network, define the main wall‐body,
and then try to approach the ridges and branches of the vasculature′s using fine detection. Fine vessel screening looks into local structural inconsistencies in vessels properties, into noise, or into not expected intensity variations observed inside pre‐known vessel‐body areas. The vessels are first modelled sufficiently but not precisely by their walls with a tubular model‐structure that is the result of an initial segmentation. This provides a chart of likely Vessel Wall Pixels (VWPs) yielding a form of a likelihood vessel map mainly based on gradient filter′s intensity and spatial arrangement parameters (e.g., linear consistency). Specific vessel parameters (centerline, width, location, fall‐away rate, main orientation) are post‐computed by convolving the image with a set of pre‐tuned spatial filters called Matched Filters (MFs). These are easily computed as Gaussian‐like 2D forms that use a limited range sub‐optimal parameters adjusted to the dominant vessel characteristics obtained by Spatial Grey Level Difference statistics limiting the range of search into vessel widths of 16, 32, and 64 pixels. Sparse pixels are effectively eliminated by applying a limited range Hough Transform (HT) or region growing. Major benefits are limiting the range of parameters, reducing the search‐space for post‐convolution to only masked regions, representing almost 2% of the 2D volume, good speed versus accuracy/time trade‐off. Results show the potentials of our approach in terms of time for detection ROC analysis and accuracy of vessel pixel (VP) detection.
Evaluation of the Antimicrobial Properties of the Essential Oil ofMyrtus communis L.against Clinical Strains ofMycobacterium spp.
Authors: Zanetti Stefania , Cannas Sara , Molicotti Paola , Bua Alessandra , Cubeddu Marina , Porcedda Silvia , Marongiu Bruno , Sechi Leonardo Antonio
Published: July 2010

Mycobacterium tuberculosisis the etiological agent of tuberculosis. The World Health Organization has estimated that 8 million of people develop active TB every year and the situation is complicated by an increase ofMycobacterium tuberculosisstrains resistant to drugs used in antitubercular therapy: MDR and XDR-TB. Myrtle leaf extracts, used as an antiseptic in Sardinian traditional medicine, have strong antibacterial activity as several investigations showed. In this study we investigated the antimicrobial properties of the essential oil ofMyrtus communisagainst clinical strains ofM. tuberculosisandM. paratuberculosis.
Objective Voice Parameters and Self-Perceived Handicap in Dysphonia
Authors: Hummel Christina , Scharf Manuela , Schuetzenberger Anne , Graessel Elmar , Rosanowski Frank
Published: July 2010

Objective: This study focuses on the relation between objective voice quality and the self-perception of a voice handicap. Patients and Methods: The study group consisted of 86 German-speaking patients (51 women, 35 men) suffering from benign dysphonia. The test persons completed the German version of the Voice-Related Quality of Life (V-RQOL) Questionnaire without prior information about their diagnosis and underwent voice analysis with the Dysphonia Severity Index (DSI) being the parameter of this study. Results: No correlation between V-RQOL and DSI could be found (p > 0.05). On the V-RQOL, women scored worse than men, but not at a significant level. Patients with dysphonia of organic origin scored significantly worse than patients with functional dysphonia (p = 0.026). On the DSI, men’s values were significantly lower than women’s (p = 0.001). Organic dysphonia caused significantly lower DSI values than functional dysphonia (p = 0.011). Conclusion: Objective voice quality and the individual perception of voice quality by the patient are independent parameters. Both need to be assessed in clinical practice.
Vagotomy Suppresses Body Weight Gain in a Rat Model of Gastric Banding
Authors: Kanno Hitoshi , Kiyama Teruo , Fujita Itsuo , Kato Shunji , Uchida Eiji , Tajiri Takashi
Published: July 2010

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of vagotomy on body weight changes after gastric banding. Methods: Rats were divided into a sham-operated group (n = 10), a vagotomy alone group (n = 10), a gastric banding alone group (n = 10) and a gastric banding + vagotomy group (n = 10). All groups were given a liquid diet for 5 days after surgery and then given free access to chow. Their body weight was measured through postoperative day (POD) 14, and caloric intake and nitrogen balance were measured until POD 7. Results: The increase in body weight in the banding + vagotomy group between POD 0 and POD 14 was not significant (12.5 ± 16.8 g; p = 0.48), and it was less than in the banding alone group (52.8 ± 3.8 g; p = 0.031). Cumulative caloric intake from POD 5 to POD 7 was less in the banding + vagotomy group than in the banding alone group (158.6 ± 26.3 vs. 223.9 ± 8.3 kcal; p = 0.030). Daily nitrogen balance from POD 5 to POD 7 in the banding + vagotomy group was less than in the banding group (337 ± 77 vs. 540 ± 42 mg; p = 0.033). Conclusions: Vagotomy suppressed body weight gain in the rat model of gastric banding.