bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intra-operative quality assessment of coronary artery bypass grafts
Authors: Groom Robert , Tryzelaar Joan , Forest Richard , Niimi Kevin , Cecere Giovanni , Donegan Desmond , Katz Saul , Weldner Paul , Quinn Reed , Braxton John , Blank Seth , Kramer Robert , Morton Jeremy
Published: January 2013

Early coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) failure is a troubling complication that may result in a wide range of problems, including refractory angina, myocardial infarction, low cardiac output, arrhythmia, and fatal heart failure. Early graft failures are related to poor quality and size of the distal native vascular bed, coagulation abnormalities, or technical problems involving the graft conduits and anastomoses. Unfortunately, graft failure is difficult to detect during surgery by visual assessment, palpation, or conventional monitoring. We evaluated the accuracy and utility of a transit-time, ultrasonic flow measurement system for measurement of CABGs. There were no differences between transit-time measurements and volumetric-time collected samples in an in vitro circuit over a range of flows from 10 to 100 ml/min (Bland and Altman Plot, 1.96 SD). Two hundred and ninety-eight CABGs were examined in 125 patients.

Graft flow rate was proportional to the target vessel diameter. Nine technical errors were detected and corrected. Flow waveform morphology provided valuable information related to the quality of the anastamosis, which led to the immediate correction of technical problems at the time of surgery.
Normothermic perfusion and lung function after cardiopulmonary bypass: effects in pulmonary risk patients
Authors: Ranucci M , Soro G , Frigiola A , Menicanti L , Ditta A , Candido G , Tambalo S
Published: January 2013

Fifty patients at risk for postoperative lung dysfunction and undergoing elective coronary revascularization have been randomly assigned to receive normothermic (36°C) perfusion with warm heart protection (NP group) or hypothermic (28°C) perfusion with cold heart protection (HP group).

Lung function before and after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) was studied through the determination of the intrapulmonary shunt ( Qs/ Qt), the alveolo-arterial oxygen gradient (A-aΔO2), and the artero-alveolar carbon dioxide gradient (a-AΔCO2). The Q s /Q t after CPB was significantly lower in the NP group (27.1 ± 2.6 vs 35.7 ± 2.3) as well as the A-aΔO2 (50.2 ± 1.5 vs 57.6 ±2.4); both data returned to comparable between the groups after 3 h in the intensive care unit. The a-AΔCO2 was significantly lower after CPB in the NP group (5.2 ± 0.74 vs 8.2 ± 0.8). Hospital stay and mortality were comparable in the two groups; intubation time and rate of early extubation showed a trend in favour of the NP group; the rate of patients suffering hypoxia and/or hypercapnia after extubation was significantly lower in the NP group (12%) versus the HP group (44%).

Normothermia seems to exert a protective effect against lung dysfunction after CPB. The absence of a rewarming injury associated with reperfusion, a limitation of the hypothermic-induced vasoconstriction due to local cooling of the lung and a better compliance of the normothermic lung are hypothesized as beneficial effects of the ‘all-warm’ strategy.
Modified ultrafiltration in paediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Schlünzen Lise , Pedersen Jens , Hjortholm Kirsten , Hansen Ole K , Ditlevsen Emmy
Published: January 2013

The effect of modified ultrafiltration (MUF) after cardiopulmonary bypass for paediatric cardiac surgery was evaluated in 138 children with moderate to severe congenital heart disease. The median age was 0.4 years (0 days to 6.5 years), and the weight 5.3 kg (2.2-20 kg). The operation was discontinued in six cases, three because of technical problems and three because of unstable circulation. One-hundred-and-thirty-four patients were ultrafiltrated for a median of 12 min (2-27 min) with an ultrafiltrate of median 44 ml/kg (6-118 ml/kg). Haematocrit was significantly increased from 28% (20-39%) to 36% (26-51%) and systolic arterial pressure from 56 mmHg (30-85 mmHg) to 74.0 mmHg (32-118 mmHg). Furthermore arterial oxygenation was significantly increased from 30.8 kPa (4.8-70.4 kPa) to 34.1 kPa (4.9-80.6 kPa), and arterial carbon dioxide tension from 4.8 kPa (3.1-7.3 kPa) to 5.1 kPa (3.1-7.6 kPa). Heart rate was significantly reduced from 145 beats/min (92-201 beats/min) to 136 beats/min (88-200 beats/min). There were no significant differences in central venous pressure, left atrial pressure and base excess before and after MUF.

MUF increases systolic blood pressure, haematocrit, arterial oxygen and carbon dioxide tension coming off bypass in paediatric cardiac surgery and reduces heart rate and postoperative fluid overload.
Clinical oxygen transfer comparison of the Terumo Capiox SX18 and SX25 membrane oxygenators
Authors: Fried David W , Zombolas Theodore L , Leo Joseph J , Mohamed Hasratt , Mattioni Gabriel J
Published: January 2013

The purpose of this current study was to compare the Terumo Capiox SX18 (1.8 m2) with the recently released Capiox SX25 (2.5 m2). Specifically, their oxygen transfer slopes, degree of blood shunting, extrapolated maximum oxygen transfer, blood side pressure drop and oxygen transfer consistency were compared.

The lower intercept value (0.209 vs 0.236) coupled with the flatter slope (0.00171 vs 0.00225) of the oxygen transfer line for the SX25 is consistent with improved oxygen transfer performance. A lower FiO2 value would be predicted for the SX25, to achieve a specific PaO2 value, when the oxygen transfer requirement is equal for both devices. Extrapolated maximum oxygen transfer for the SX25 (462.6 ml O2/min) was 36.2% higher than that for the SX18 (339.6 ml O2/min). When indexed to membrane surface area, the SX18 (188.7 ml O2/m2/min performed 2.0% better than the SX25 (185.0 ml O2/m2/min). Both the slope (3.110 vs 3.744) and the intercept (4.595 vs 6.223) of the shunt fraction line were lower for the SX25, indicating that a lower shunt fraction would be predicted for all clinical blood flow rates. The slope (23.934 vs 22.443) and intercept values (-28.388 vs -22.650) of the pressure drop lines for the two devices indicate that the blood side pressure drop, over the range of clinical blood flows, were within 2% of each other. Oxygen transfer consistency, when expressed as the standard deviation of the oxygenator performance index and the percentage of predicted shunt, was not statistically different for the two devices.
Heparin-bonded circuits: clinical outcomes and costs
Authors: Mahoney C Brown
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to use meta-analysis to combine the results of numerous studies and examine the impact of heparin-bonded circuits on clinical outcomes and the resulting costs. Heparin-bonded circuits, both ionically and covalently bonded, are examined separately.

The results of the study provide evidence that heparin-bonded circuits result in improved clinical outcomes when compared to the identical nonheparin-bonded circuits. These improved clinical outcomes result in subsequent lower costs per patient with their use. However, differences are apparent in the significance and magnitude of these outcomes between ionically and covalently bonded circuits. Covalently bonded circuits provide a greater magnitude and significance of improvement in clinical outcomes than ionically bonded circuits. Total cost savings can be expected to be three times greater with covalently bonded circuits ($3231 versus $1068).

It was concluded that the choice regarding the use of a heparin-bonded circuits and the type of heparin-bonded circuit used has the potential to alter clinical outcomes and subsequent costs. Cost consideration cannot be ignored, but clinical benefits should be the main rationale for the choice of cardiopulmonary bypass circuit. This analysis provides evidence that clinical benefits and cost savings can both be derived from use of the same technology - covalently bonded circuits.
Testing neonate-infant membrane oxygenators with the University of Texas neonatal pulsatile cardiopulmonary bypass system in vitro
Authors: Ündar Akif , Holland Marian C , Howelton Russel V , Benson Cherie K , Ybarra Jose R , Miller O LaWayne , Rossbach Mario M , Runge Thomas M , Johnson Scott B , Sako Edward Y , Calhoon John H
Published: January 2013

Neurologic complications are already well documented after cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) procedures in neonates and infants. Physiologic pulsatile flow CPB systems may be the alternative to the currently used steady-flow CPB circuits. In addition to the pulsatile pump, a membrane oxygenator should be chosen carefully, because only a few membrane oxygenators are suitable for physiologic pulsatile flow. We have tested four different types of neonate-infant membrane oxygenators for physiologic pulsatility with The University of Texas neonate-infant pulsatile CPB system in vitro. Evaluation criteria were based on mean ejection time, extracorporeal circuit (ECC) pressure, and upstroke of d p/d t. The results suggested that the Capiox 308 hollow-fibre membrane oxygenator produced the best physiologic pulsatile waveform according to the ejection time, ECC pressure, and the upstroke of d p/d t. The Minimax Plus and Masterflo Infant hollow-fibre membrane oxygenators also produced adequate pulsatile flow. Only the Variable Prime Cobe Membrane Lung (VPCML) Plus flat-sheet membrane oxygenator failed to reach the criteria for physiologic pulsatility. Depending on the oxygenator used, the lowest priming volume of the infant CPB circuit was 415 ml and the highest 520 ml.
Plasma membrane events associated with the meiotic divisions in the amphibian oocyte: insights into the evolution of insulin transduction systems and cell signaling
Authors: Morrill Gene A , Kostellow Adele B , Moore Richard D , Gupta Raj K
Published: January 2013

Background

Insulin and its plasma membrane receptor constitute an ancient response system critical to cell growth and differentiation. Studies using intact Rana pipiens oocytes have shown that insulin can act at receptors on the oocyte surface to initiate resumption of the first meiotic division. We have reexamined the insulin-induced cascade of electrical and ion transport-related plasma membrane events using both oocytes and intact plasma membranes in order to characterize the insulin receptor-steroid response system associated with the meiotic divisions.

Results

[125I]Insulin binding (Kd = 54 ± 6 nM) at the oocyte plasma membrane activates membrane serine protease(s), followed by the loss of low affinity ouabain binding sites, with a concomitant 3–4 fold increase in high affinity ouabain binding sites. The changes in protease activity and ouabain binding are associated with increased Na+/Ca2+ exchange, increased endocytosis, decreased Na+ conductance resulting in membrane hyperpolarization, increased 2-deoxy-D-glucose uptake and a sustained elevation of intracellular pH (pHi). Hyperpolarization is largely due to Na+-channel inactivation and is the main driving force for glucose uptake by the oocyte via Na+/glucose cotransport. The Na+ sym- and antiporter systems are driven by the Na+ free energy gradient generated by Na+/K+-ATPase. Shifts in α and/or β Na+-pump subunits to caveolar (lipid raft) membrane regions may activate Na/K-ATPase and contribute to the Na+ free energy gradient and the increase in both Na+/glucose co-transport and pHi.

Conclusions

Under physiological conditions, resumption of meiosis results from the concerted action of insulin and progesterone at the cell membrane. Insulin inactivates Na+ channels and mobilizes fully functional Na+-pumps, generating a Na+ free energy gradient which serves as the energy source for several membrane anti- and symporter systems.
Potential contribution of SIM2 and ETS2 functional polymorphisms in Down syndrome associated malignancies
Authors: Chatterjee Arpita , Dutta Samikshan , Mukherjee Sanjit , Mukherjee Nupur , Dutta Avirup , Mukherjee Ashis , Sinha Swagata , Panda Chinmay Kumar , Chaudhuri Keya , Roy Ananda L , Mukhopadhyay Kanchan
Published: January 2013

Background

Proper expression and functioning of transcription factors (TFs) are essential for regulation of different traits and thus could be crucial for the development of complex diseases. Subjects with Down syndrome (DS) have a higher incidence of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) while solid tumors, like breast cancer (BC) and oral cancer (OC), show rare incidences. Triplication of the human chromosome 21 in DS is associated with altered genetic dosage of different TFs. V-ets erythroblastosis virus E26 oncogene homolog 2 (ETS2) and Single Minded 2 (SIM2) are two such TFs that regulate several downstream genes involved in developmental and neurological pathways. Here we studied functional genetic polymorphisms (fSNP) in ETS2 and SIM2 encoding genes in a group of patients and control subjects to better understand association of these variants with DS phenotypes.

Methods

We employed anin silicoapproach to identify potential target pathways of ETS2 and SIM2. fSNPs in genes encoding for these two TFs were identified using available databases. Selected sites were genotyped in individuals with DS, their parents, ALL, BC, OC as well as ethnically matched control individuals. We further analyzed these data by population-based statistical methods.

Results

Allelic/genotypic association analysis showed significant (P < 0.03) differences of rs2070530, rs1051476, rs11254, rs711 for DS subjects compared to control. rs711 also exhibited significantly different genotypic distribution pattern in parents of DS probands (P < 0.02) and BC patients (P < 0.02). Interaction analysis revealed independent main effect of rs711 in all the groups, while rs11254 exhibited independent main effect in DS subjects only. High entropy values were noticed for rs461155 in the solid tumor groups. Significant interactive effects of rs2070531 with rs1051475, rs1051476, rs11254 were observed in all the groups except DS.

Conclusions

We infer from the present investigation that the difference in frequencies of fSNPs and their independent as well as interactive effects may be the cause for altered expression of SIM2 and ETS2 in DS and malignant groups, which affects different downstream biological pathways. Thus, altered expression of SIM2 and ETS2 could be one of the reasons for variable occurrence of different malignant conditions in DS.
Up-regulation of COX-2/PGE2 by endothelin-1 via MAPK-dependent NF-κB pathway in mouse brain microvascular endothelial cells
Authors: Lin Chih-Chung , Hsieh Hsi-Lung , Shih Ruey-Horng , Chi Pei-Ling , Cheng Shin-Ei , Yang Chuen-Mao
Published: January 2013

Background

Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is a proinflammatory mediator and elevated in the regions of several brain injury and inflammatory diseases. The deleterious effects of ET-1 on endothelial cells may aggravate brain inflammation mediated through the regulation of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)/prostaglandin E2(PGE2) system in various cell types. However, the signaling mechanisms underlying ET-1-induced COX-2 expression in brain microvascular endothelial cells remain unclear. Herein we investigated the effects of ET-1 in COX-2 regulation in mouse brain microvascular endothelial (bEnd.3) cells.

Results

The data obtained with Western blotting, RT-PCR, and immunofluorescent staining analyses showed that ET-1-induced COX-2 expression was mediated through an ETB-dependent transcriptional activation. Engagement of Gi- and Gq-protein-coupled ETBreceptors by ET-1 led to phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38 MAPK, and JNK1/2 and then activated transcription factor NF-κB. Moreover, the data of chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) and promoter reporter assay demonstrated that the activated NF-κB was translocated into nucleus and bound to its corresponding binding sites in COX-2 promoter, thereby turning on COX-2 gene transcription. Finally, up-regulation of COX-2 by ET-1 promoted PGE2release in these cells.

Conclusions

These results suggested that in mouse bEnd.3 cells, activation of NF-κB by ETB-dependent MAPK cascades is essential for ET-1-induced up-regulation of COX-2/PGE2system. Understanding the mechanisms of COX-2 expression and PGE2release regulated by ET-1/ETBsystem on brain microvascular endothelial cells may provide rationally therapeutic interventions for brain injury or inflammatory diseases.
Sn-doped In2O3 nanowires: enhancement of electrical field emission by a selective area growth
Authors: Chang Wen-Chih , Kuo Cheng-Hsiang , Juan Chien-Chang , Lee Pei-Jung , Chueh Yu-Lun , Lin Su-Jien
Published: January 2013

Selective area growth of single crystalline Sn-doped In2O3 (ITO) nanowires synthesized via vapor–liquid–solid (VLS) method at 600°C was applied to improve the field emission behavior owing to the reduction of screen effect. The enhanced field emission performance reveals the reduction of turn-on fields from 9.3 to 6.6 V μm−1 with increase of field enhancement factors (β) from 1,621 to 1,857 after the selective area growth at 3 h. Moreover, we find that the screen effect also highly depends on the length of nanowires on the field emission performance. Consequently, the turn-on fields increase from 6.6 to 13.6 V μm−1 with decreasing β values from 1,857 to 699 after the 10-h growth. The detailed screen effect in terms of electrical potential and NW density are investigated in details. The findings provide an effective way of improving the field emission properties for nanodevice application.
Human parvovirus B19 infection in a renal transplant recipient: a case report
Authors: Alves Michelle Teodoro , Vilaça Sandra Simone , Carvalho Maria das Graças , Fernandes Ana Paula , Dusse Luci Maria Sant’ Ana , Gomes Karina Braga
Published: January 2013

Background

Parvovirus B19 presents tropism for human erythroid progenitor cells, causing chronic anemia in organ transplant recipients, due to their suppressed humoral and cellular responses. Diagnosis may be achieved through serological tests for detection of anti-B19 antibodies. However, renal transplant recipients are not routinely tested for parvovirus B19 infection, since there is scanty data or consensus on screening for B19 infection, as well as for treatment or preventive management of transplanted patients.

Case presentation

Herein we report a kidney transplant recipient, who was unresponsive to treatment of severe anemia, and presented hypocellular hematopoietic marrow, megaloblastosis and hypoplasia of erythroid lineage with larger cells with clear nuclei chromatin and eosinophilic nuclear inclusions. This patient was seropositive for Epstein-Barr and Cytomegalovirus infections and negative for anti-parvovirus B19 IgM and IgG antibodies, although symptoms were suggestive of parvoviruses infection. A qualitative polymerase chain reaction testing for B19 in serum sample revealed positive results for B19 virus DNA.

Conclusion

This case report suggests that the diagnostic process for parvovirus B19 in renal transplant recipients should include a polymerase chain reaction assay to detect B19-DNA, since specific serological tests may be unreliable given their impaired humoral responses. These results also indicate the importance of considering parvovirus B19 infection in the differential diagnosis of persistent anemia in transplanted patients.
CCN4 induces IL-6 production through αvβ5 receptor, PI3K, Akt, and NF-κB singling pathway in human synovial fibroblasts
Authors: Hou Chun-Han , Tang Chih-Hsin , Hsu Chin-Jung , Hou Sheng-Mon , Liu Ju-Fang
Published: January 2013

Introduction

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative joint disease that is involved in the degradation of articular cartilage. The exact etiology of OA is not completely understood. CCN4 is related to up-regulation in the cartilage of patients with osteoarthritis. Previous studies have shown that CCN4 might be associated with the pathogenesis of OA, but the exact signaling pathways in CCN4-mediated IL-6 expression in synovial fibroblasts (SF) are largely unknown. Therefore, we explored the intracellular signaling pathway involved in CCN4-induced IL-6 production in human synovial fibroblast cells.

Methods

CCN4-induced IL-6 production was assessed with quantitative real-time qPCR and ELISA. The mechanisms of action of CCN4 in different signaling pathways were studied by using Western blotting. Neutralizing antibodies of integrin were used to block the integrin signaling pathway. Luciferase assays were used to study IL-6 and NF-κB promoter activity. Immunocytochemistry was used to examine the translocation activity of p65.

Results

Osteoarthritis synovial fibroblasts (OASFs) showed significant expression of CCN4 and the expression was higher than in normal SFs. OASF stimulation with CCN4 induced concentration- and time-dependent increases in IL-6 production. Pretreatment of OASFs with αvβ5 but not α5β1 and αvβ3 integrin antibodies reduced CCN4-induced IL-6 production. CCN4-mediated IL-6 production was attenuated by PI3K inhibitor (LY294002 and Wortmannin), Akt inhibitor (Akti), and NF-κB inhibitor (PDTC and TPCK). Stimulation of cells with CCN4 also increased PI3K, Akt, and NF-κB activation.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that CCN4 activates αvβ5 integrin, PI3K, Akt, and NF-κB pathways, leading to up-regulation of IL-6 production. According to our results, CCN4 may be an appropriate target for drug intervention in OA in the future.
Somatic Mutations and Deletions of the E-Cadherin Gene Predict Poor Survival of Patients With Gastric Cancer
Authors: Corso Giovanni , Carvalho Joana , Marrelli Daniele , Vindigni Carla , Carvalho Beatriz , Seruca Raquel , Roviello Franco , Oliveira Carla
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The prognosis of gastric cancer (GC) is poor, and the molecular pathogenesis players are vastly unknown. Surgery remains the primary option in GC treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of somatic CDH1 alterations in prognosis and survival of patients with GC.

Patients and Methods

A series of patients with sporadic and familial GC (diffuse and intestinal; n = 246) were analyzed for somatic CDH1 mutations, promoter hypermethylation, and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) by polymerase chain reaction sequencing. E-cadherin protein expression was determined by immunohistochemistry. Associations between molecular, clinicopathologic, and survival data were analyzed.

Results

CDH1 somatic alterations were found in approximately 30% of all patients with GC. Both histologic types of sporadic GC displayed LOH in 7.5%, mutations in 1.7%, and hypermethylation in 18.4% of patients. Primary tumors from hereditary diffuse GC, lacking germline CDH1 alterations, showed exclusively CDH1 promoter hypermethylation in 50% of patients. Familial intestinal GC (FIGC) tumors showed LOH in 9.4% and hypermethylation in 17.0%. CDH1 alterations did not associate with a particular pattern of E-cadherin expression. Importantly, the worst patient survival rate among all GCs analyzed was seen in patients with tumors carrying CDH1 structural alterations, preferentially those belonging to FIGC families.

Conclusion

CDH1 somatic alterations exist in all clinical settings and histotypes of GC and associate with different survival rates. Their screening at GC diagnosis may predict patient prognosis and is likely to improve management of patients with this disease.
The Effect of Global Company Animosity on Global Brand Attitudes in Emerging and Developed Markets: Does Perceived Value Matter?
Authors: Alden Dana L. , Kelley James B. , Riefler Petra , Lee Julie A. , Soutar Geoffrey N.
Published: January 2013

Country-level animosity effects on foreign products from disliked countries are fairly well understood, but little is known about the role of global company animosity (GCA). Such understanding is important in a world increasingly dominated by global brands that are rapidly losing their associations with individual countries. This study proposes a nomological net that features GCA and perceived value of global brands (PVGB) as “dual process antecedents” to global brand attitudes and mediators of four relevant exogenous constructs (consumer ethnocentrism and localism through GCA and cosmopolitanism and materialism through PVGB). Using nonstudent consumers, the authors test the model in three diverse national markets ranging from emerging to developed: Brazil, South Korea, and Germany. The results show support for the importance of PVGB as a counterbalance to GCA in Brazil and Germany. The dominance of the PVGB path in South Korea is due to the country's unique socioeconomic milieu. Although replication is warranted, international marketing managers should benefit from strategic consideration of the antecedents and pathways from GCA and PVGB to global brand attitudes.
Targeting Revenue Leaders for a New Product
Authors: Haenlein Michael , Libai Barak
Published: January 2013

Historically, when targeting potential adopters of a new product, firms have tended to focus first on people with disproportional effect on others, often labeled “opinion leaders.” The authors highlight the benefit of targeting customers with high lifetime value (CLV), or “revenue leaders.” The authors argue that targeting revenue leaders can create high value both by accelerating adoption among these customers and because of the higher-than-average value that revenue leaders generate by affecting other customers with similarly high CLV. The latter phenomenon is driven by network assortativity, whereby people's social networks tend to be composed of others who are similar to themselves. Analyzing an agent-based model of a seeding program for a new product, the authors contrast revenue leader seeding with opinion leader seeding and compare the factors that influence the effectiveness of each. They show that the distribution of CLV in the population and the seed size play a major role in determining which seeding approach is preferable, and they discuss the managerial implications of these findings.
Wish versus Worry: Ownership Effects on Motivated Judgment
Authors: Dai Xianchi , Hsee Christopher K.
Published: January 2013

How do consumers’ needs and motivations influence their perceptions of external objects? For example, do hungry people perceive a cake to be larger or smaller than do satiated people? According to the New Look psychology literature, the answer is invariably “larger.” However, in this article, the authors demonstrate that the answer is more complex depending on whether the object belongs to the perceiver. If the cake does not belong to the perceiver, she will perceive it to be larger if she is hungry than if she is satiated. In contrast, if the cake already belongs to her, she will perceive it to be smaller if she is hungry than if she is satiated. The authors propose a two-process (wishful thinking vs. worryful thinking) hypothesis to explain the finding and discuss its theoretical and marketing implications.
How Variety-Seeking versus Inertial Tendency Influences the Effectiveness of Immediate versus Delayed Promotions
Authors: Kim Hyeongmin (Christian)
Published: January 2013

Four studies investigate (1) whether a variety-seeking versus inertial environment activates a certain mind-set about risk propensity and (2) whether this mind-set influences preferences for immediate versus delayed promotions. Study 1 demonstrates that a variety-seeking environment activates a risk-taking mind-set, whereas an inertial environment activates a risk-averse mind-set and that such a difference in risk propensity makes a delayed (immediate) promotion relatively more appealing for consumers with a variety-seeking (inertial) tendency. Study 2 reveals that preferences for a brand offering a delayed promotion are stronger when consumers have a variety-seeking tendency and that preferences of consumers low (vs. high) in need for cognitive closure are more influenced by the difference in variety-seeking versus inertial tendency. Study 3 provides further insights by allowing participants to be variety seeking or inertial and by controlling for redemption effort and the hedonic/utilitarian aspects of categories. Finally, Study 4 highlights the impact of variety-seeking versus inertial tendency on real-world choices. The article concludes with a discussion of theoretical and managerial implications.
R7 Photoreceptor Axon Growth Is Temporally Controlled by the Transcription Factor Ttk69, Which Inhibits Growth in Part by Promoting Transforming Growth Factor-β/Activin Signaling
Authors: Kniss Jonathan S. , Holbrook Scott , Herman Tory G.
Published: January 2013

Work on axon growth has classically focused on understanding how extrinsic cues control growth cone dynamics independent of the cell body. However, more recently, neuron-intrinsic transcription factors have been shown to influence both normal and regenerative axon growth, suggesting that understanding their mechanism of action is of clinical importance. We are studying axon targeting in theDrosophilavisual system and here show that the BTB/POZ zinc-finger transcription factor Tramtrack69 (Ttk69) plays an instructive role in inhibiting the growth of R7 photoreceptor axon terminals. Althoughttk69mutant R7 axons project to the correct medullar target layer, M6, their terminals fail to remain retinotopically restricted and instead grow laterally within M6. This overgrowth is not caused by an inability to be repelled by neighboring R7 axons or by an inability to recognize and initiate synapse formation with postsynaptic targets. The overgrowth is progressive and occurs even if contact betweenttk69mutant R7 axons and their normal target layer is disrupted. Ttk69 is first expressed in wild-type R7s after their axons have reached the medulla;ttk69mutant R7 axon terminal overgrowth begins shortly after this time point. We find that expressing Ttk69 prematurely in R7s collapses their growth cones and disrupts axon extension, indicating that Ttk69 plays an instructive role in this process. A TGF-β/Activin pathway was shown previously to inhibit R7 axon terminal growth. We find that Ttk69 is required for normal activation of this pathway but that Ttk69 likely also inhibits R7 axon growth by a TGF-β/Activin-independent mechanism.
Covariance-Based Synaptic Plasticity in an Attractor Network Model Accounts for Fast Adaptation in Free Operant Learning
Authors: Neiman Tal , Loewenstein Yonatan
Published: January 2013

In free operant experiments, subjects alternate at will between targets that yield rewards stochastically. Behavior in these experiments is typically characterized by (1) an exponential distribution of stay durations, (2) matching of the relative time spent at a target to its relative share of the total number of rewards, and (3) adaptation after a change in the reward rates that can be very fast. The neural mechanism underlying these regularities is largely unknown. Moreover, current decision-making neural network models typically aim at explaining behavior in discrete-time experiments in which a single decision is made once in every trial, making these models hard to extend to the more natural case of free operant decisions. Here we show that a model based on attractor dynamics, in which transitions are induced by noise and preference is formed via covariance-based synaptic plasticity, can account for the characteristics of behavior in free operant experiments. We compare a specific instance of such a model, in which two recurrently excited populations of neurons compete for higher activity, to the behavior of rats responding on two levers for rewarding brain stimulation on a concurrent variable interval reward schedule (Gallistel et al., 2001). We show that the model is consistent with the rats' behavior, and in particular, with the observed fast adaptation to matching behavior. Further, we show that the neural model can be reduced to a behavioral model, and we use this model to deduce a novel “conservation law,” which is consistent with the behavior of the rats.
Ataxia with Cerebellar Lesions in Mice Expressing Chimeric PrP-Dpl Protein
Authors: Lemaire-Vieille Catherine , Bailly Yannick , Erlich Paul , Loeuillet Corinne , Brocard Jacques , Haeberlé Anne-Marie , Bombarde Guy , Rak Camille , Demais Valérie , Dumestre-Pérard Chantal , Gagnon Jean , Cesbron Jean-Yves
Published: January 2013

Mutations within the central region of prion protein (PrP) have been shown to be associated with severe neurotoxic activity similar to that observed with Dpl, a PrP-like protein. To further investigate this neurotoxic effect, we generated lines of transgenic (Tg) mice expressing three different chimeric PrP-Dpl proteins. Chi1 (amino acids 1–57 of Dpl replaced by amino acids 1–125 of PrP) and Chi2 (amino acids 1–66 of Dpl replaced by amino acids 1–134 of PrP) abrogated the pathogenicity of Dpl indicating that the presence of a N-terminal domain of PrP (23–134) reduced the toxicity of Dpl, as reported. However, when the amino acids 1–24 of Dpl were replaced by amino acids 1–124 of PrP, Chi3 Tg mice, which express the chimeric protein at a very low level, start developing ataxia at the age of 5–7 weeks. This phenotype was not counteracted by a single copy of full-length-PrPcbut rather by its overexpression, indicating the strong toxicity of the chimeric protein Chi3. Chi3 Tg mice exhibit severe cerebellar atrophy with a significant loss of granule cells. We concluded that aa25 to aa57 of Dpl, which are not present in Chi1 and Chi2 constructs, confer toxicity to the protein. We tested this possibility by using the 25–57 Dpl peptide in primary culture of mouse embryo cortical neurons and found a significant neurotoxic effect. This finding identifies a protein domain that plays a role in mediating Dpl-related toxicity.
Amygdala β-Noradrenergic Receptors Modulate Delayed Downregulation of Dopamine Activity following Restraint
Authors: Chang Chun-hui , Grace Anthony A.
Published: January 2013

Stress, which involves a heightened arousal and excitability, triggers important adaptive responses to maintain homeostasis and prepare a response. In the current studies, we administered a psychological stressor of 2 h acute restraint on rats, and found that 24 h after the cessation of the restraint session, there was a significant decrease in ventral tegmental area dopaminergic (DA) neuron population activity and a significant attenuation in amphetamine-induced locomotor activity. Systemic or intra-basolateral nuclei of the amygdala administration of the β-noradrenergic receptor antagonist, propranolol, reversed the decrease, suggesting that the delayed attenuation of DA neuron firing following a stressor depends on a noradrenaline-mediated mechanism. This alteration in DA activity may adaptively prepare the individual to avoid the stressor, or in the extreme, may be a factor that contributes to pathological changes in behavior or physiological responses.
Doing Business without Exchanging Money: The Scale and Creativity of Modern Barter
Authors: Kaikati Andrew M. , Kaikati Jack G.
Published: January 2013

Although money plays a key role in modern economies, an increasing amount of business is being done without the use of money. This article sheds light on the important roles of cashless deals and identifies the factors fueling their growing importance. It provides guidelines for negotiating moneyless marketplace exchanges in key domains, including crowdsourcing, promotions, and word of mouth.
Novel Sexual-Cycle-Specific Gene Silencing in Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Czaja Wioletta , Miller Karen Y , Miller Bruce L
Published: January 2013

We report a novel sexual-cycle-specific gene-silencing system in the genetic model Aspergillus nidulans. Duplication of the mating type matAHMG gene in this haploid organism triggers Mat-induced silencing (MatIS) of both endogenous and transgenic matA genes, eliminates function of the encoded SRY structural ortholog, and results in formation of barren fruiting bodies. MatIS is spatiotemporally restricted to the prezygotic stage of the sexual cycle and does not interfere with vegetative growth, asexual reproduction, differentiation of early sexual tissues, or fruiting body development. MatIS is reversible upon deletion of the matA transgene. In contrast to other sex-specific silencing phenomena, MatIS silencing has nearly 100% efficiency and appears to be independent of homologous duplicated DNA segments. Remarkably, transgene-derived matA RNA might be sufficient to induce MatIS. A unique feature of MatIS is that RNA-mediated silencing is RNA interference/Argonaute-independent and is restricted to the nucleus having the duplicated gene. The silencing phenomenon is recessive and does not spread between nuclei within the common cytoplasm of a multinucleate heterokaryon. Gene silencing induced by matA gene duplication emerges as a specific feature associated with matAHMG regulation during sexual development.
Effects of diet supplementation with Camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia HBK McVaugh) fruit in a rat model of diet-induced obesity
Authors: Nascimento Ozanildo V , Boleti Ana P.A , Yuyama Lucia K.O , Lima Emerson S
Published: January 2013

Amazonian Camu-camu fruit (Myrciaria dubia HBK Mc Vaugh) has attracted interest from food and cosmetics industries because of its rich content of vitamin C, flavonoids and anthocyanins. The goal of this study was investigates the antiobesity action of the ingestion of the Camu-camu pulp in a rat model of diet-induced obesity. Wistar rats with obesity induced by subcutaneous injection of monosodium glutamate receiving diet ad libitum. The rats were divided in two groups: an experimental group that ingested 25 mL/day of Camu-camu pulp (CCG) and a non treated group (CG). After 12 weeks, the animals were sacrificed. Blood, liver, heart, white adipose tissues were collected and weighted, biochemical and inflammatory profiles were determinate as well. Animals that received the pulp of Camu-camu reduced their weights of the fat in white adipose tissues, glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-c and insulin blood levels. There was an increase in HDL-c levels. No change was observed in inflammatory markers and liver enzymes. Camu-camu pulp was able to improve the biochemical profile of obesity in rats suggesting that this Amazonian fruit can be further used such a functional food ingredient in control of chronic diseases linked to obesity.
Histological evaluation of the periodontal ligament from aged wistar rats supplemented with ascorbic acid
Authors: Zanoni Jacqueline N. , Lucas Nathalia M. , Trevizan Aline R. , Souza Ivan D.S.
Published: January 2013

Ascorbic acid (AA) is able to neutralize reactive oxygen species and is essential for collagen synthesis. In aging process oxidative stress is elevated. This study aims to investigate the effects of AA supplementation on the periodontal ligament (PL) of rats during aging. Twenty five rats were used and divided into groups: J90 (90-day-old control), E345 (345-day-old control), E428 (428-day-old control), EA345 (345-day-old supplemented with AA from 90-day-old on) and EA428 (428-day-old supplemented with AA from 90-day-old on). We analyzed the thickness, density of fibroblasts and blood vessels and collagen fibers types in the PL. In group J90 there was predominantly type III collagen fibers (87.64%). In animals supplemented with AA, the area filled by type I fibers (group EA345: 65.67%, group EA428: 52.23%) was higher than type III fibers. PL in group EA428 was thicker than the one observed in group E428 (P < 0.05). During natural aging process, AA promoted the maturation of collagen fibers and enhanced angiogenesis in periodontal ligament. One can conclude that the supplementation with AA represented a beneficial factor for the development of PL in aged rats.
Influence of the use of acids and films in post-harvest lychee conservation
Authors: Silva Danielle Fabíola Pereira da , Lins Leila Cristina Rosa de , Cabrini Elaine Cristina , Brasileiro Beatriz Gonçalves , Salomão Luiz Carlos Chamhum
Published: January 2013

Lychee (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) has a high commercial value; however, it has a short shelf-life because of its rapid pericarp browning. The objective of this study was to evaluate the shelf-life of 'Bengal' lychee fruits stored after treatment with hydrochloric acid and citric acid, associated with cassava starch and plastic packaging. Uniformly red pericarp fruits were submitted to treatments: 1-(immersion in citric acid 100 mM for 5 minutes + cassava starch 30 g L-1 for 5 minutes), 2-(immersion in hydrochloric acid 1 M for 2 minutes + starch cassava 30 g L-1 for 5 minutes), 3-(immersion in citric acid 100 mM for 5 minutes + polyvinyl chloride film (PVC, 14 µm thick)) and 4-(immersion in hydrochloric acid 1 M for 2 minutes + PVC film). During 20 days, the fruits were evaluated for mass loss, pericarp color, pH, soluble solids and titratable acidity, vitamin C of the pulp and pericarp and activities of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase of the pericarp. The treatment with hydrochloric acid associated with PVC was the most effective in maintaining the red color of the pericarp for a period of 20 days and best preservation of the fruit. The cassava starch associated with citric acid, and hydrochloric acid did not reduce the mass loss and did not prevent the browning of lychee fruit pericarp.
Prediction of genetic gain from selection indices for disease resistance in papaya hybrids
Authors: Vivas Marcelo , Silveira Silvaldo Felipe da , Pereira Messias Gonzaga
Published: January 2013

In order to select superior hybrids for the concentration of favorable alleles for resistance to papaya black spot, powdery mildew and phoma spot, 67 hybrids were evaluated in two seasons, in 2007, in a randomized block design with two replications. Genetic gains were estimated from the selection indices of Smith & Hazel, Pesek & Baker, Williams, Mulamba & Mock, with selection intensity of 22.39%, corresponding to 15 hybrids. The index of Mulamba & Mock showed gains more suitable for the five traits assessed when it was used the criterion of economic weight tentatively assigned. Together, severity of black spot on leaves and on fruits, characteristics considered most relevant to the selection of resistant materials, expressed percentage gain of -44.15%. In addition, there were gains for other characteristics, with negative predicted selective percentage gain. The results showed that the index of Mulamba & Mock is the most efficient procedure for simultaneous selection of papaya hybrid resistant to black spot, powdery mildew and phoma spot.
Enraizamento de estacas caulinares e radiculares de Rubus fruticosus tratadas com AIB
Authors: Tadeu Maraísa Hellen , Pio Rafael , Tiberti Andrei Spaziani , Figueiredo Madeleine Alves de , Souza Filipe Bittencourt Machado de
Published: January 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o enraizamento de estacas caulinares e radiculares de Rubus fruticosus, tratadas com AIB. Estacas radiculares e caulinares dessa espécie foram coletadas em março, tendo posteriormente suas bases tratadas com diferentes concentrações de ácido indolbutírico (AIB, 1000, 2000, 3000 e 4000 mg L-1) por 10 segundos. O tratamento controle foi baseado somente no uso da água. As estacas caulinares foram enterradas a 2/3 de seu comprimento, em posição vertical, e as radiculares foram totalmente enterradas, na horizontal, utilizando-se a vermiculitaï como substrato, em telado com sombreamento de 50%. Após 60 dias, pôde-se concluir que as estacas caulinares apresentaram melhores resultados para formação das mudas, não se devendo tratá-las com AIB.
Ingestão de glutamina e maltodextrina duas horas no pré-operatório imediato melhora a sensibilidade à insulina pós-operatória: estudo aleatório, duplo-cego e controlado
Authors: Dock-Nascimento Diana Borges , Aguilar-Nascimento Jose Eduardo de , Waitzberg Dan Linetzky
Published: January 2013

OBJETIVO: investigar se a abreviação do jejum pré-operatório com uma bebida contendo glutamina e dextrinomaltose melhora a resposta orgânica ao trauma cirúrgico. MÉTODOS: trinta e seis pacientes adultas, (18-62 anos) candidatas à colecistectomia videolaparoscópica eletiva foram aleatoriamente divididas em três grupos: grupo jejum convencional (grupo Jejum), ou em dois grupos para receber duas dietas diferentes, oito horas (400ml) e duas horas antes da indução anestésica (200ml): grupo carboidrato (12,5% de dextrinomaltose) e glutamina (12,5% de dextrinomaltose e, respectivamente, 40 e 10g de glutamina). As amostras de sangue foram coletadas no período pré e pós-operatório. RESULTADOS: vinte e oito pacientes completaram o estudo. Nenhuma complicação pulmonar ocorreu durante o estudo. O volume residual gástrico foi similar entre os grupos (p=0,95). No pós-operatório, todas as pacientes do grupo jejum apresentaram glicemia anormal (>110mg/dl), sendo essa anormalidade 50% para o grupo CHO (p=0,14) e, apenas, 22,2% para o grupo GLN (p=0,01). No pós-operatório, todas as pacientes que abreviaram o jejum (grupo CHO + GLN) apresentaram insulinemia normal, contrastando com 66,7% no grupo jejum (p=0,02). A sensibilidade anormal à insulina subiu no pós-operatório de 32,1% para 46,4% dos casos (p=0,24). A sensibilidade anormal à insulina, no pós-operatório, ocorreu em apenas 11,1% das pacientes do grupo GLN comparado com 55,5% do grupo jejum (p=0,02). CONCLUSÃO: a abreviação do jejum pré-operatório para duas horas com glutamina e dextrinomaltose melhora a sensibilidade à insulina de pacientes submetidas à colecistectomia videolaparoscópica eletiva.
Estratégias de leitura da tradição literária brasileira na crítica de Machado de Assis
Authors: Werkema Andréa Sirihal
Published: January 2013

Neste artigo, são discutidas as estratégias utilizadas por Machado de Assis, em seu célebre ensaio "Instinto de nacionalidade" (1873), para não apenas inserir a sua própria produção literária no quadro da literatura brasileira de então, mas também para lançar um olhar sobre as futuras possibilidades, a partir daquele momento, de produção de uma literatura não pautada pelo crivo do nacionalismo literário no Brasil. Ou seja, o ensaio de Machado lançaria, para nós, leitores a posteriori, uma luz especial sobre a futura obra ficcional do autor, já que ele proporia um princípio de indeterminação do índice diferenciador dos textos da literatura brasileira, índice até então associado aos traços brasileiristas aí encontrados.
Water quantity auditing of a Ghanaian beverage plant
Authors: Agyemang Emmanuel Okoh , Awuah Esi , Darkwah Lawrence , Arthur Richard , Osei Gabriel
Published: January 2013

The study aimed at conducting a water quantity audit in a Ghanaian beverage plant. Primary data on the daily volumes of input water from the main reservoirs of the plant, daily volumes of beverage produced and the water consumed at the 8 metered stages of the plant out of a total of 12 stages were recorded over a period of four months. Secondary data on the plant's monthly water consumption was obtained from Ghana Water Company Limited billing records for the period January 2005 to December 2009. The study revealed that, the average monthly water consumption was 9,825 m3 with a standard deviation of (±1,399) in the past five years (2005–2009). Stages with high water usage in the plant were the Syrup and Beverage Preparation stage (55%) and the Bottle Washer Equipment stage (34%). Furthermore, the plant's specific water consumption determined was 3.5 : 1 which is better than the company's target of 4 : 1. This indicates that the plant's current water use efficiency is good and therefore encouraging.