bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutations at positions 186 and 194 in the HA gene of the 2009 H1N1 pandemic influenza virus improve replication in cell culture and eggs
Authors: Suphaphiphat Pirada , Franti Michael , Hekele Armin , Lilja Anders , Spencer Terika , Settembre Ethan , Palmer Gene , Crotta Stefania , Tuccino Annunziata B , Keiner Bjoern , Trusheim Heidi , Balabanis Kara , Sackal Melissa , Rothfeder Mithra , Mandl Christian W , Dormitzer Philip R , Mason Peter W
Published: August 2010

Obtaining suitable seed viruses for influenza vaccines poses a challenge for public health authorities and manufacturers. We used reverse genetics to generate vaccine seed-compatible viruses from the 2009 pandemic swine-origin influenza virus. Comparison of viruses recovered with variations in residues 186 and 194 (based on the H3 numbering system) of the viral hemagglutinin showed that these viruses differed with respect to their ability to grow in eggs and cultured cells. Thus, we have demonstrated that molecular cloning of members of a quasispecies can help in selection of seed viruses for vaccine manufacture.
3'-coterminal subgenomic RNAs and putative cis-acting elements of Grapevine leafroll-associated virus 3 reveals 'unique' features of gene expression strategy in the genus Ampelovirus
Authors: Jarugula Sridhar , Gowda Siddarame , Dawson William O , Naidu Rayapati A
Published: August 2010

Background

The familyClosteroviridaecomprises genera with monopartite genomes,ClosterovirusandAmpelovirus, and with bipartite and tripartite genomes,Crinivirus. By contrast to closteroviruses in the generaClosterovirusandCrinivirus, much less is known about the molecular biology of viruses in the genusAmpelovirus, although they cause serious diseases in agriculturally important perennial crops like grapevines, pineapple, cherries and plums.

Results

The gene expression andcis-acting elements ofGrapevine leafroll-associated virus 3(GLRaV-3; genusAmpelovirus) was examined and compared to that of other members of the familyClosteroviridae. Six putative 3'-coterminal subgenomic (sg) RNAs were abundantly present in grapevine (Vitis vinifera) infected with GLRaV-3. The sgRNAs for coat protein (CP), p21, p20A and p20B were confirmed using gene-specific riboprobes in Northern blot analysis. The 5'-termini of sgRNAs specific to CP, p21, p20A and p20B were mapped in the 18,498 nucleotide (nt) virus genome and their leader sequences determined to be 48, 23, 95 and 125 nt, respectively. No conserved motifs were found around the transcription start site or in the leader sequence of these sgRNAs. The predicted secondary structure analysis of sequences around the start site failed to reveal any conserved motifs among the four sgRNAs. The GLRaV-3 isolate from Washington had a 737 nt long 5' nontranslated region (NTR) with a tandem repeat of 65 nt sequence and differed in sequence and predicted secondary structure with a South Africa isolate. Comparison of the dissimilar sequences of the 5'NTRs did not reveal any common predicted structures. The 3'NTR was shorter and more conserved. The lack of similarity among thecis-acting elements of the diverse viruses in the familyClosteroviridaeis another measure of the complexity of their evolution.

Conclusions

The results indicate that transcription regulation of GLRaV-3 sgRNAs appears to be different from members of the genusClosterovirus. An analysis of the genome sequence confirmed that GLRaV-3 has an unusually long 5'NTR of 737 nt compared to other monopartite members of the familyClosteroviridae, with distinct differences in the sequence and predicted secondary structure when compared to the corresponding region of the GLRaV-3 isolate from South Africa.
Persistent sciatica induced by quadratus femoris muscle tear and treated by surgical decompression: a case report
Authors: Bano Artan , Karantanas Apostolos , Pasku Dritan , Datseris George , Tzanakakis George , Katonis Pavlos
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Quadratus femoris tear is an uncommon injury, which is only rarely reported in the literature. In the majority of cases the correct diagnosis is delayed due to non-specific symptoms and signs. A magnetic resonance imaging scan is crucial in the differential diagnosis since injuries to contiguous soft tissues may present with similar symptoms. Presentation with sciatica is not reported in the few cases existing in the English literature and the reported treatment has always been conservative.

Case presentation

We report here on a case of quadratus femoris tear in a 22-year-old Greek woman who presented with persistent sciatica. She was unresponsive to conservative measures and so was treated with surgical decompression.

Conclusion

The correct diagnosis of quadratus muscle tear is a challenge for physicians. The treatment is usually conservative, but in cases of persistent sciatica surgical decompression is an alternative option.
A new device to seal large coronary aneurysms: a case report
Authors: Danzi Gian Battista , Pomidossi Guido Angelo , Casolo Filippo , Centola Marco , Ferraresi Roberto , Lotan Chaim
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Coronary artery aneurysm is an uncommon disease. It is defined as a coronary artery dilatation, exceeding the diameter of the normal adjacent segment or the diameter of the patient's largest coronary vessel by 1.5 to 2 times. Coronary artery aneurysms are typically diagnosed by coronary angiography. The prognosis of coronary artery aneurysm is not well known and the management is challenging.

Case presentation

A 68-year-old Italian-Caucasian man presented to our hospital with angina. Coronary angiography revealed a large coronary aneurysm of the right coronary artery, which was successfully treated by the percutaneous implantation of an MGuard™stent.

Conclusion

This case report provides evidence that coronary artery aneurysms, even if very large, can be safely treated by MGuard™stent implantation. We strongly emphasize the high flexibility and good deliverability of this device, which leads to the complete exclusion of the aneurysm mediated by the process of endothelization of its thin mesh sleeves.
Visualization and phenotyping of proinflammatory antigen-specific T cells during collagen-induced arthritis in a mouse with a fixed collagen type II-specific transgenic T-cell receptor β-chain
Authors: Merky Patrick , Batsalova Tsvetelina , Bockermann Robert , Dzhambazov Balik , Sehnert Bettina , Burkhardt Harald , Bäcklund Johan
Published: August 2010

Introduction

The Vβ12-transgenic mouse was previously generated to investigate the role of antigen-specific T cells in collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), an animal model for rheumatoid arthritis. This mouse expresses a transgenic collagen type II (CII)-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) β-chain and consequently displays an increased immunity to CII and increased susceptibility to CIA. However, while the transgenic Vβ12 chain recombines with endogenous α-chains, the frequency and distribution of CII-specific T cells in the Vβ12-transgenic mouse has not been determined. The aim of the present report was to establish a system enabling identification of CII-specific T cells in the Vβ12-transgenic mouse in order to determine to what extent the transgenic expression of the CII-specific β-chain would skew the response towards the immunodominant galactosylated T-cell epitope and to use this system to monitor these cells throughout development of CIA.

Methods

We have generated and thoroughly characterized a clonotypic antibody, which recognizes a TCR specific for the galactosylated CII(260-270) peptide in the Vβ12-transgenic mouse. Hereby, CII-specific T cells could be quantified and followed throughout development of CIA, and their phenotype was determined by combinatorial analysis with the early activation marker CD154 (CD40L) and production of cytokines.

Results

The Vβ12-transgenic mouse expresses several related but distinct T-cell clones specific for the galactosylated CII peptide. The clonotypic antibody could specifically recognize the majority (80%) of these. Clonotypic T cells occurred at low levels in the naïve mouse, but rapidly expanded to around 4% of the CD4+ T cells, whereupon the frequency declined with developing disease. Analysis of the cytokine profile revealed an early Th1-biased response in the draining lymph nodes that would shift to also include Th17 around the onset of arthritis. Data showed that Th1 and Th17 constitute a minority among the CII-specific population, however, indicating that additional subpopulations of antigen-specific T cells regulate the development of CIA.

Conclusions

The established system enables the detection and detailed phenotyping of T cells specific for the galactosylated CII peptide and constitutes a powerful tool for analysis of the importance of these cells and their effector functions throughout the different phases of arthritis.
Impact of the factor V Leiden mutation on the outcome of pneumococcal pneumonia: a controlled laboratory study
Authors: Schouten Marcel , van't Veer Cornelis , Roelofs Joris JTH , Levi Marcel , van der Poll Tom
Published: August 2010

Introduction

Streptococcus (S.) pneumoniae is the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia. The factor V Leiden (FVL) mutation results in resistance of activated FV to inactivation by activated protein C and thereby in a prothrombotic phenotype. Human heterozygous FVL carriers have been reported to be relatively protected against sepsis-related mortality. We here determined the effect of the FVL mutation on coagulation, inflammation, bacterial outgrowth and outcome in murine pneumococcal pneumonia.

Methods

Wild-type mice and mice heterozygous or homozygous for the FVL mutation were infected intranasally with 2*106 colony forming units of viable S. pneumoniae. Mice were euthanized after 24 or 48 hours or observed in a survival study. In separate experiments mice were treated with ceftriaxone intraperitoneally 24 hours after infection and euthanized after 48 hours or observed in a survival study.

Results

The FVL mutation had no consistent effect on activation of coagulation in either the presence or absence of ceftriaxone therapy, as reflected by comparable lung and plasma levels of thrombin-antithrombin complexes and fibrin degradation products. Moreover, the FVL mutation had no effect on lung histopathology, neutrophil influx, cytokine and chemokine levels or bacterial outgrowth. Remarkably, homozygous FVL mice were strongly protected against death due to pneumococcal pneumonia when treated with ceftriaxone, which was associated with more pronounced FXIII depletion; this protective effect was not observed in the absence of antibiotic therapy.

Conclusions

Homozygosity for the FVL mutation protects against lethality due to pneumococcal pneumonia in mice treated with antibiotics.
Comprehensive transcriptome analysis of mouse embryonic stem cell adipogenesis unravels new processes of adipocyte development
Authors: Billon Nathalie , Kolde Raivo , Reimand Jüri , Monteiro Miguel C , Kull Meelis , Peterson Hedi , Tretyakov Konstantin , Adler Priit , Wdziekonski Brigitte , Vilo Jaak , Dani Christian
Published: August 2010

Background

The current epidemic of obesity has caused a surge of interest in the study of adipose tissue formation. While major progress has been made in defining the molecular networks that control adipocyte terminal differentiation, the early steps of adipocyte development and the embryonic origin of this lineage remain largely unknown.

Results

Here we performed genome-wide analysis of gene expression during adipogenesis of mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). We then pursued comprehensive bioinformatic analyses, including de novo functional annotation and curation of the generated data within the context of biological pathways, to uncover novel biological functions associated with the early steps of adipocyte development. By combining in-depth gene regulation studies and in silico analysis of transcription factor binding site enrichment, we also provide insights into the transcriptional networks that might govern these early steps.

Conclusions

This study supports several biological findings: firstly, adipocyte development in mouse ESCs is coupled to blood vessel morphogenesis and neural development, just as it is during mouse development. Secondly, the early steps of adipocyte formation involve major changes in signaling and transcriptional networks. A large proportion of the transcription factors that we uncovered in mouse ESCs are also expressed in the mouse embryonic mesenchyme and in adipose tissues, demonstrating the power of our approach to probe for genes associated with early developmental processes on a genome-wide scale. Finally, we reveal a plethora of novel candidate genes for adipocyte development and present a unique resource that can be further explored in functional assays.
Phase II Study of the Halichondrin B Analog Eribulin Mesylate in Patients With Locally Advanced or Metastatic Breast Cancer Previously Treated With an Anthracycline, a Taxane, and Capecitabine
Authors: Cortes Javier , Vahdat Linda , Blum Joanne L. , Twelves Chris , Campone Mario , Roché Henri , Bachelot Thomas , Awada Ahmad , Paridaens Robert , Goncalves Anthony , Shuster Dale E. , Wanders Jantien , Fang Fang , Gurnani Renuka , Richmond Elaine , Cole Patricia E. , Ashworth Simon , Allison Mary Ann
Published: August 2010

Purpose

The activity and safety of eribulin mesylate (E7389), a nontaxane microtubule dynamics inhibitor with a novel mechanism of action, were evaluated in patients with locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer previously treated with an anthracycline, taxane, and capecitabine.

Patients and Methods

Eligible patients in this single-arm, open-label phase II study received eribulin mesylate (1.4 mg/m2) administered as a 2- to 5-minute intravenous infusion on days 1 and 8 of a 21-day cycle. The primary end point was objective response rate (ORR) assessed by independent review.

Results

Of 299 enrolled patients who had received a median of four prior chemotherapy regimens, 291 received eribulin (for a median of four cycles). Of these, 269 patients met key inclusion criteria for the primary efficacy analysis. The primary end point of ORR by independent review was 9.3% (95% CI, 6.1% to 13.4%; all partial responses [PRs]), the stable disease (SD) rate was 46.5%, and clinical benefit rate (complete response + PR + SD ≥ 6 months) was 17.1%. The investigator-reported ORR was 14.1% (95% CI, 10.2% to 18.9%). Median duration of response was 4.1 months, and progression-free survival was 2.6 months. Median overall survival was 10.4 months. The most common treatment-related grade 3 or 4 toxicities were neutropenia (54%; febrile neutropenia, 5.5%), leukopenia (14%), and asthenia/fatigue (10%; no grade 4); grade 3 neuropathy occurred in 6.9% of patients (no grade 4).

Conclusion

Eribulin demonstrated antitumor activity in extensively pretreated patients who had previously received an anthracycline, taxane, and capecitabine, with a manageable tolerability profile.
Germline Genetic Variation, Cancer Outcome, and Pharmacogenetics
Authors: Coate Linda , Cuffe Sinead , Horgan Anne , Hung Rayjean J. , Christiani David , Liu Geoffrey
Published: August 2010

Studies of the role of germline or inherited genetic variation on cancer outcome can fall into three distinct categories. First, the impact of highly penetrant but lowly prevalent mutations of germline DNA on cancer prognosis has been studied extensively for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations as well as mutations related to hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer syndrome. These mainly modest-sized analyses have produced conflicting results. Although some associations have been observed, they may not be independent of other known clinical or molecular prognostic factors. Second, the impact of germline polymorphisms on cancer prognosis is a burgeoning field of research. However, a deeper understanding of potentially confounding somatic changes and larger multi-institutional, multistage studies may be needed before consistent results are seen. Third, research examining the impact of germline genetic variation on differential treatment response or toxicity (pharmacogenetics) has produced some proof-of-principle results. Putative germline pharmacogenetic predictors of outcome include DPYD polymorphisms and fluorouracil toxicity, UGT1A1 variation and irinotecan toxicity, and CYP2D6 polymorphisms and tamoxifen efficacy, with emerging data on predictors of molecularly targeted or biologic drugs. Here we review data pertaining to these germline outcome and germline toxicity relationships.
Target deletion of the bifunctional type 12 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in mice results in reduction of androgen and estrogen levels in heterozygotes and embryonic lethality in homozygotes
Authors: Bellemare Véronique , Phaneuf Daniel , Luu-The Van
Published: August 2010

17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (17β-HSDs) are enzymes issued from convergent evolution of activity from various ancestral genes having different functions. Type 12 17β-HSD (17β-HSD12) was described as a bifunctional enzyme, involved in the biosynthesis of estradiol (E2) and the elongation of very long chain fatty acid (VLCFA). It catalyzes selectively the transformation of estrone (E1) into estradiol (E2) in human and primates, whereas in the mouse and Caenorhabditis elegans the enzyme catalyzes the 17β-reduction of both androgens and estrogens. It is also able to catalyze the reduction of 3-keto-acylCoA into 3-hydroxy-acylCoA in the elongation cycle of VLCFA biosynthesis. To further understand the physiological role of 17β-HSD12, we performed targeted disruption of the Hsd17b12 gene by substituting exons 8 and 9 that contain the active site with a neomycin cassette. The data indicate that heterozygous (HSD17B12+/–) mice are viable with reduced levels of sex steroids, whereas homozygous (HSD17B12–/–) mice show embryonic lethality. The present data are in agreement with the bifunctional activities of 17β-HSD12 suggesting that the VLCFA elongation activity, having its origin in the yeast, is most probably responsible for embryonic lethality in HSD17B12–/–, whereas the more recently acquired 17β-HSD12 activity is responsible for reduced sex steroid levels in HSD17B12+/–.
Monitoring and Blending Biofuels Using a Microfluidic Sensor
Authors: Sparks D. , Smith R. , Riley D. , Tran N. , Patel J. , Chimbayo A. , Najafi N.
Published: August 2010

Density measurements have long been used to monitor petrochemical distillation. The density of the petrochemicals decreases as one moves up the distillation column. Measuring the density or specific gravity of biodiesel has been reported to be the preferred method of blending biodiesel fuel for both accuracy and ease of use. To see widespread use, a measurement technology must not only be capable of accurately monitoring a parameter, but it must do so in an economical way. This paper explores the application of microelectromechanical systems technology to fuel monitoring, quality control, and blending. This microfluidic sensor has on-chip density/specific gravity, temperature, and viscosity measurement capabilities, as will be demonstrated in the experimental results. The ability to differentiate between gasoline, ethanol, diesel, biodiesel, butanol, Fischer–Tropsch fuel, water, and air contamination with a density measurement and in some cases a viscosity measurement will be demonstrated. Using gravimetric measurements, based on fluid density, concentrations of fuel blends like ethanol-gasoline can be measured. Contamination levels of water in ethanol can also be measured in this manner. The density of fuel over temperature can be made with this sensing technology and applied to custody transfer. Potential microfluidic clogging issues are addressed by filtration and by adding the capability of sensing flow through the sensor. Measuring fluids under high flow rates is accommodated with a bypass design. An intrinsically safe circuit has been developed to enable use of this technology with flammable liquids. Vibration testing has been undertaken to show that these micromachined devices, with their high resonant frequencies, are immune to vehicular and aviation vibration, unlike conventional density metres made using larger resonating steel tubing.
Relative Motion of ACL Insertion Points In Vivo: A Case Study, Including Skiing Maneuvers
Authors: Freudiger Stefan , Vogt Wolfgang , Wirz Dieter
Published: August 2010

FASTRAK receivers were mounted on Kirschner-wires inserted in the distal femur and proximal tibia, respectively. Relative motions of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) insertion points were calculated for a hypothesised ACL while diagnostic and skiing load cases were applied to the knee. The highest strains, in descending order were: (i) Lachman test (13.5 %), (ii) 20 N•m internal rotation load (10.6 %) and (iii) latero-medial knee movement (6.4 %). The Lachman-procedure not only produces anterior tibial translation (5.5 mm) but as well internal rotation (10.0°). The medial knee movement produces valgus (2.3°) and external rotation (15.6°), but induces flexion (9.7°) as well, which therefore increases ACL load due to a non physiological instantaneous centre of rotation.
On the Low Stability of Molecular Magnets Based on Transition Metal Hexacyanochromates (III)
Authors: Reguera E. , Rodriguez-Hernandez J. , Tellez C. , Centeno M.
Published: August 2010

In the research area of molecular magnets for Prussian blue analogues interesting and unusual effects have been observed, particularly for mixed transition metal salts of the hexacyanochromate (III) anion, TA
3-xTB
x[Cr(CN)6]2·yH2O. For single metal salts, T3[Cr(CN)6]2·yH2O, with T = Mn(2+), Fe(2+), Co(2+), three paramagnetic ions where long range magnetic order is observed, the materials show low stability. The structural change can be envisaged as a flipping of the CN ligand, from T-N≡C-Cr-C≡N-T to Cr-N≡C-T-C≡N-Cr. The material containing these metals (Mn, Fe, Co) could be partially stabilized by the incorporation of a second metal that does not form stable hexacyano complexes (Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd). In this contribution such possibility is explored. The role of the porous framework in the material low stability is also discussed. For analog compact solids, TCs[Cr(CN)6], a relatively high stability on aging was observed. The study of the mixed compositions is preceded by a structural characterization of the simple series where the effect of the crystal water removal is also considered.
Is the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) Method a Peroxyl-radical Scavenging Assay?
Authors: Sueishi Yoshimi , Yoshioka Daisuke , Oowada Shigeru , Endoh Nobuyuki , Kohri Shunji , Fujii Hirotada , Shimmei Masashi , Kotake Yashige
Published: August 2010

The oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) method employs a water soluble azo-radical initiator, AAPH (2,2’-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride) as a free radical generator, by which the fluorescent probe fluorescein is damaged to result in the loss of fluorescence. Antioxidants can protect the probe from the damage and the degree of protection is quantified. Because AAPH has been used as a lipid-peroxidation reagent, “oxygen radical” in ORAC is generally accepted as peroxyl radicals; however, in the present spin trapping experiments using a newly developed spin trap, CYPMPO, there was no indication of peroxyl-radical formation in AAPH decomposition in aqueous media. These spin trapping studies demonstrated that alkoxyl (RO·) radical adduct was the sole product of AAPH decomposition. In contrast, alkyl-peroxyl (ROO·) radical was spin-trapped during the decomposition of a lipid soluble azo-radical initiator AIBN (azobis(isobutyronitrile)) in non-aqueous media. We speculate that alkyl-peroxyl radicals are short-lived in water, rapidly converted into alkoxyl radicals. Although the possibility that ORAC method monitors peroxyl-radical scavenging activity cannot be completely eliminated, spin trapping evidence strongly indicates that ORAC method is a scavenging capacity assay for alkoxyl radicals.
Theoretical Study of the HOCH2OO• + HO2
• Reaction: Detailed Molecular Mechanisms of the Three Reaction Channels
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Lam , Vereecken Luc , Peeters Jozef
Published: August 2010

The HO2
• + HOCH2OO• reaction was theoretically investigated, using various high-level, single-reference Complete Basis Set methods including CBS-QB3, CBS-QCI/APNO and CBS-Q(MPW1B95) and a new multi-reference CI-PT2 approach. Three major product channels under atmospheric conditions were identified and their molecular mechanisms elucidated in great detail by Intrinsic Reaction Coordinate Analyses (IRC) at the B3LYP/6–311G(d,p) level: (i) Direct head-to-tail H-atom abstraction from the hydroperoxy radical by the alkylperoxy, occurring on the triplet Potential Energy Surface (PES) leading to HOCH2OOH + O2; (ii) A two-step rearrangement of the initial singlet HOCH2OOOOH tetroxide complex to form HC(O)OH + •OH + HO2
•; (iii) A multi-step rearrangement of the initial HOCH2OOOOH tetroxide to yield HC(O)OH + O2(1Δ) + H2O, about twice as fast as the former channel on the singlet-surface. The findings provide an explanation for the observed hydroxyl radical formation in this reaction (Jenkin et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 9 (2007) 3149) and rationalize the high overall rate and its pronounced negative temperature dependence (Veyret et al., J. Phys. Chem.
93 (1989) 2368).
Time Resolved Infrared Spectroscopy of Formation and Processing of Secondary Organic Aerosol
Authors: Ofner J. , Krüger H.-U. , Zetzsch C.
Published: August 2010

An aerosol flow reactor was coupled to an infrared absorption cell to study aerosol formation processes with high temporal resolution. The recorded infrared spectra were referenced using aerosol smog chamber experiments. Evaluation was done by studying the formation of secondary organic aerosol from α-pinene and catechol as precursors and ozone as oxidant. Three main infrared absorptions: ν(O-H), ν(C-H) and ν(C=O) were considered, and humic like properties of the secondary organic aerosol are mainly interpreted according to the formation and variations of carbonyl bands in the region between 1850 and 1600 cm−1, especially the ν(C=O) of aryl carbonyls from catechol oxidation products below 1700 cm−1. The relative intensities of two major ν(C=O) stretching vibrations at 1690 cm−1 and 1755 cm−1 were observed to depend strongly on the available ozone concentration. At high precursor/ozone ratios (2:1 or 1:1) the vibration at 1690 cm−1 predominates, indicating aryl carbonyl vibrations. With increasing ozone concentrations this vibration is replaced by the higher carbonyl vibration at 1755 cm−1 indicating unsaturated carbonyl-containing compounds. This is a strong hint at ring opening processes leading to unsaturated aliphatic compounds in the resulting particle. Aryl carbonyls and aromatic or olefinic ν(C=C) at 1620 cm−1 in aged particles remain visible, as aerosol smog chamber studies exhibit – thus a strong hint at humic like properties of the SOA from the spectroscopic point of view.
Uptake of Organic Acids on Ice Surfaces: Evidence for Surface Modification and Hydrate Formation
Authors: Symington Angela , Cox R. Anthony , Fernandez Miguel A.
Published: August 2010

The uptake of gaseous HC(O)OH, CH3 C(O)OH and CF3C(O)OH on ice films at temperatures corresponding to the upper troposphere (UT) has been investigated using a coated-wall flow tube with mass spectrometric measurement of gas concentration. Uptake was largely reversible and followed Langmuir-type kinetic behavior, i.e. surface coverage increased with trace gas concentration approaching a maximum surface coverage at N
max ~2 to 3×1014 molecules cm−3, corresponding to ~25% monolayer (ML). The partition constants, KLinC
, were obtained from the experimental data by analysis using the simple Langmuir model and also using a simple one-dimensional numerical model to simulate individual uptake profiles and retrieve partition constants for specific conditions of temperature and concentration, over the temperature range 208–238 K. The analysis showed that Langmuir constants decreased at high surface coverages, possibly due to adsorbate-adsorbate interaction or modification of the ice surface. At low coverage, the following expressions described the temperature dependence of the partition coefficients (KLinC) for HC(O)OH (KLinC
= (1.5±3.5
1.0)×10−8exp((5143±268)/T) cm), for CH3 C(O)OH (KLinC
= (0.55±5.4
0.5)×10−8exp((5703±536)/T) cm), and CF3C(O)OH (KLinC
= (512±1903
404)×10−8exp((309±331)/T) cm). For CF3C(O)OH there was an irreversible component of uptake, which was attributed to hydrate formation on the surface.
Possible Health‐protecting Effects of Feeling Useful to Others on Symptoms of Depression and Sleep Disturbance in the Workplace
Authors: Takaki Jiro , Tsutsumi Akizumi , Irimajiri Hirohiko , Hayama Asako , Hibino Yuri , Kanbara Sakiko , Sakano Noriko , Ogino Keiki
Published: August 2010

Possible Health‐protecting Effects of Feeling Useful to Others on Symptoms of Depression and Sleep Disturbance in the Workplace: Jiro Takaki, et al. Department of Public Health, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the health‐protecting effects of feeling useful to others on symptoms of depression and sleep disturbance in the workplace, as well as its buffering effects on associations between stressful work environments and symptoms of depression and sleep disturbance.

Methods

The subjects of this cross‐sectional survey were 773 Japanese workers (response rate: 64.8%) of five organizations. Feelings of being useful to others were assessed with one simple question used in a previous study. Psychosocial work environment, sleep disturbance, and depressive symptoms were assessed using the Japanese versions of the Effort‐Reward Imbalance Questionnaire, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the 28‐item General Health Questionnaire, respectively. We tested for linear and interactive effects with hierarchical regression analyses.

Results

Feeling useful to others was significantly (p<0.05) and negatively associated with scores of depression and sleep disturbance both in the univariate analyses and after adjusting for age in both genders. Significant (p<0.05) interactions showed that, in both genders, as the effort‐reward balance worsened, symptoms of depression increased, but feeling useful to others buffered the associations.

Conclusions

The results support the notion that feeling useful to others in both genders in the workplace has possible health‐protecting effects.
Acute, Reversible Axonal Energy Failure During Stroke-Like Episodes in MELAS
Authors: Farrar Michelle A. , Lin Cindy S.-Y. , Krishnan Arun V. , Park Susanna B. , Andrews Peter Ian , Kiernan Matthew C.
Published: August 2010

The pathophysiology of stroke-like episodes in MELAS (mitochondrial myopathy, encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes) remains unresolved. Possible mechanisms include mitochondrial angiopathy, cytopathy, or both, collectively resulting in cellular energy depletion. To clarify disease mechanisms, axonal excitability properties were investigated in a 10-year-old child with MELAS. Serial assessments during a stroke-like episode revealed reversible depolarization of the axonal membrane consistent with disruption of energy-dependent processes. Axonal parameters correlated with the clinical assessment of central dysfunction and biochemical measures of acidosis. Novel axonal excitability techniques have established acute, reversible ischemic-like depolarization that may serve as a surrogate marker of central events that develop during stroke-like episodes in MELAS.
CDX2 in Congenital Gut Gastric-Type Heteroplasia and Intestinal-Type Meckel Diverticula
Authors: Martin Elisabeth , Vanier Marie , Tavian Manuela , Guerin Eric , Domon-Dell Claire , Duluc Isabelle , Gross Isabelle , Rowland Jonathan , Kim Sunghoon , Freund Jean-Noël
Published: August 2010

The mechanisms that determine organ identity along the digestive tract in humans are poorly understood. Here we describe the rare case of a young patient who presented with congenital gastric-type heteroplasia in the midjejunum. The lesions, located along the antimesenteric midline of the gut, were made of histologically and functionally normal gastric epithelium without inflammation or in situ/invasive carcinoma. They resembled the anatomy of the lesions developing in the mouse gut as a result of haploinsufficiency of the Cdx2 homeobox gene. The lesions were devoid of CDX2 but without mutation in the coding sequence or in a cis-regulatory element required for intestine-specific expression. Combining these data with the CDX2 expression pattern established from human embryos and cases of Meckel diverticula, we propose a scenario for this patient's presentation, in which CDX2 was missing at the site of ventral closure during gut morphogenesis, with subsequent default differentiation into gastric instead of intestinal tissue. Altogether, these observations argue in favor of a pivotal role played by CDX2 in determining intestinal identity during human embryonic development, as previously shown experimentally in mice.
RISKY CHOICE IN PIGEONS AND HUMANS: A CROSS‐SPECIES COMPARISON
Authors: Lagorio Carla H. , Hackenberg Timothy D.
Published: August 2010

Pigeon and human subjects were given repeated choices between variable and adjusting delays to token reinforcement that titrated in relation to a subject's recent choice patterns. Indifference curves were generated under two different procedures: immediate exchange, in which a token earned during each trial was exchanged immediately for access to the terminal reinforcer (food for pigeons, video clips for humans), and delayed exchange, in which tokens accumulated and were exchanged after 11 trials. The former was designed as an analogue of procedures typically used with nonhuman subjects, the latter as an analogue to procedures typically used with human participants. Under both procedure types, different variable‐delay schedules were manipulated systematically across conditions in ways that altered the reinforcer immediacy of the risky option. Under immediate‐exchange conditions, both humans and pigeons consistently preferred the variable delay, and indifference points were generally ordered in relation to relative reinforcer immediacies. Such risk sensitivity was greatly reduced under delayed‐exchange conditions. Choice and trial‐initiation response latencies varied directly with indifference points, suggesting that local analyses may provide useful ancillary measures of reinforcer value. On the whole, the results indicate that modifying procedural features brings choices of pigeons and humans into better accord, and that human—nonhuman differences on risky choice procedures reported in the literature may be at least partly a product of procedural differences.
A RUNS‐TEST ALGORITHM: CONTINGENT REINFORCEMENT AND RESPONSE RUN STRUCTURES
Authors: Hachiga Yosuke , Sakagami Takayuki
Published: August 2010

Four rats' choices between two levers were differentially reinforced using a runs‐test algorithm. On each trial, a runs‐test score was calculated based on the last 20 choices. In Experiment 1, the onset of stimulus lights cued when the runs score was smaller than criterion. Following cuing, the correct choice was occasionally reinforced with food, and the incorrect choice resulted in a blackout. Results indicated that this contingency reduced sequential dependencies among successive choice responses. With one exception, subjects' choice rule was well described as biased coin flipping. In Experiment 2, cuing was removed and the reinforcement criterion was changed to a percentile score based on the last 20 reinforced responses. The results replicated those of Experiment 1 in successfully eliminating first‐order dependencies in all subjects. For 2 subjects, choice allocation was approximately consistent with nonbiased coin flipping. These results suggest that sequential dependencies may be a function of reinforcement contingency.
THE DYNAMICS OF THE LAW OF EFFECT: A COMPARISON OF MODELS
Authors: Navakatikyan Michael A. , Davison Michael
Published: August 2010

Dynamical models based on three steady‐state equations for the law of effect were constructed under the assumption that behavior changes in proportion to the difference between current behavior and the equilibrium implied by current reinforcer rates. A comparison of dynamical models showed that a model based on Navakatikyan's (2007) two‐component functions law‐of‐effect equations performed better than models based on Herrnstein's (1970) and Davison and Hunter's (1976) equations. Navakatikyan's model successfully described the behavioral dynamics in schedules with negative‐slope feedback functions, concurrent variable‐ratio schedules, Vaughan's (1981) melioration experiment, and experiments that arranged equal, and constant‐ratio unequal, local reinforcer rates.
Association Between Interleukin‐6 −174 Polymorphism and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Nibali L. , Donos N. , Farrell S. , Ready D. , Pratten J. , Tu Y.K. , D'Aiuto F.
Published: August 2010

Background: We previously demonstrated an association between interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) polymorphisms and the detection of periodontopathogenic bacteria in aggressive and chronic periodontitis on a patient basis (pooled samples). The aim of this study is to comprehensively analyze the relative contribution of IL‐6 genetic factors and local (tooth and site) factors on the detection of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (previously Actinobacillus actinomycetemcomitans) and Porphyromonas gingivalis in patients with chronic periodontitis.

Methods: Forty patients diagnosed with severe chronic periodontitis had subgingival samples harvested from four sites (the deepest probing depths in each quadrant). All subjects had a blood sample taken to genotype the single nucleotide polymorphism at position −174 in the IL‐6 gene promoter. Nested polymerase chain reaction analysis was performed on subgingival plaque samples for the detection of A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis in each of the 160 sampled sites. The association between IL‐6 −174 genotypes and bacterial detection was investigated with multilevel analysis accounting for the clustering of multiple sites analyzed within patients.

Results: Respectively 60%, 62%, and 40% of subjects had A. actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, and both bacteria concomitantly detected in ≥1 site. The multilevel analysis confirmed that, among all site and subject factors, IL‐6 −174 G homozygosity showed the strongest association with the presence of A. actinomycetemcomitans in all subjects and in the subgroup of whites only. No associations were detected for P. gingivalis.

Conclusion: This study provides further confirmatory evidence that the detection of A. actinomycetemcomitans is associated with IL‐6 genetic factors in chronic periodontitis cases.
Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans–Induced Bone Loss and Antibody Response in Three Rat Strains
Authors: Schreiner Helen , Markowitz Kenneth , Miryalkar Manjula , Moore Danielle , Diehl Scott , Fine Daniel H.
Published: August 2010

Background: The aim of this study is to compare the colonization, immunoglobulin (Ig) G response, and alveolar bone loss in Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (Aa)–inoculated Fawn Hooded Hypertensive (FHH), Dahl Salt‐Sensitive (DSS), and Brown Norway (BN) rats.

Methods: Each rat strain was divided into wild‐type Aa‐inoculated and non‐inoculated control groups. Blood taken at 12 weeks after inoculation was assessed for Aa‐specific IgG antibodies by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Colonization was assessed 12 weeks postinoculation. Bone loss was estimated by measuring the distance from the cemento‐enamel junction (CEJ) to the alveolar bone crest (ABC) at 20 molar sites. Colonization and antibody levels were compared by using the Student t test. Diseased rats were defined as having two sites per quadrant with CEJ–ABC distances that were significantly greater than the control CEJ–ABC distances.

Results: The Aa colonization of FHH rats was significantly higher than in other strains (P <0.05). The Aa‐specific IgG levels in the DSS Aa‐inoculated group were significantly higher than in its control group (P <0.05). Only FHH rats showed Aa disease‐associated bone loss (P = 0.0021).

Conclusions: Aa colonized and caused more disease in FHH rats than in the other rat strains. The rat strains each responded differently to the same Aa strain.
Thermodynamic efficiencies and GHG emissions of alternative desalination processes
Authors: Kempton R. , Maccioni D. , Mrayed S. M. , Leslie G.
Published: August 2010

Three alternative approaches to desalinating seawater were evaluated with respect to their thermodynamic efficiencies and greenhouse-gas emissions. The technologies considered were multistage flash distillation (MSF), reverse osmosis (RO), and membrane distillation (MD). The analysis was based on published stream data from large-scale operational MSF and RO facilities and experimental-scale data for the MD process. RO was found to be the most exergy-efficient (30.1%) followed by MD (14.27%) and MSF (7.73%). RO and MD required less power consumption to produce water (3.29 kWh/m3 and 5.9 kWh/m3, respectively) compared to MSF which had a much higher energy demand (16.7 kWh/m3). Similar results were obtained when comparing equivalent carbon dioxide emissions from each process; MD and RO accounted for 5.22 and 2.91 kg CO2eq/m3, respectively, whereas MSF generated three to four times that amount. The results indicate that MD has potential as a commercially viable technique for seawater desalination provided a source of waste heat is available. This study provides an overview of the use of thermodynamic efficiency analysis to evaluate desalination processes and provides insight into where energy may be saved with developed desalination processes and areas of research for emerging desalination techniques.
Comparing risk-reduction measures to reach water safety targets using an integrated fault tree model
Authors: Rosén L. , Lindhe A. , Bergstedt O. , Norberg T. , Pettersson T. J. R.
Published: August 2010

In the third edition of the Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality, the World Health Organization concludes that an integrated management of risks in source waters, treatment systems and distribution networks is the most effective way to guarantee safe drinking water to consumers. The integrated approach is fundamental to avoid sub-optimisation of risk-reduction measures. This paper presents an application of an integrated and quantitative risk model for comparing risk-reduction measures to support decisions for reaching specified water safety targets. A fault tree approach is used for structuring the risk analysis and for estimating the risk, expressed as Customer Minutes Lost (CML). Input information is a combination of hard data and expert judgements. Uncertainties in input information are considerable and modelled by a Bayesian statistical approach. A drinking water system in Sweden is used to exemplify model application. Quantitative safety targets have been confirmed at the political level as a basis for long-term planning of investments and reinvestments. One target defines an acceptable risk level of 144 annual CML for the average consumer. For the current system structure an estimated risk of 612 CML was obtained. Four risk-reduction alternatives were compared and they reduce the risk to between 50 and 81 CML, i.e. below the acceptable level. The paper describes how a structured and thorough analysis of risk-reduction measures can facilitate transparency and long-term planning of drinking water systems.
Hydraulic engineering of inverted siphons in Roman age: a review
Authors: Temporelli G. , De Novellis F.
Published: August 2010

In this work the authors wish to present a technology, less known if compared with the Roman age arcaded bridges used to cross broad and deep valleys: the inverted siphons. These structures are very complex hydraulic systems: for their good functioning, in fact, not only adequate constructing tricks were necessary, but also good theoretical knowledge, to be applied during the planning stage. In particular the systems that will be examined in this work are the double inverted siphon of the Yzeron aqueduct (Lyon, France) and the triple inverted siphon of Aspendos (Turkey); in both cases the Roman engineers ensured the correct functioning of the systems relying on specific technical solutions. Besides, the Barratina (Termini Imerese, Italy) siphon will be shortly presented, that is a “mixed” siphon whose technical conception distinguished it from the others. The Barratina siphon is the only case so far known in the history of the Roman aqueducts where the receiving tank is above the hydraulic grade line; nevertheless in many cases a precise leveling was not executed. It still possible that in the territory of the Roman Empire, other similar solutions can be found.
Concentrating primary reverse osmosis concentrate by direct contact membrane distillation
Authors: Qu Dan , Wang Jun , Hou Deyin , Luan Zhaokun , Wang Baoqiang
Published: August 2010

In the present work, a thermally driven membrane process-direct contact membrane distillation was investigated for concentrating the primary reverse osmosis concentrate to minimize the water loss. The primary reverse osmosis concentrate used in the work was obtained from the RO process of the direct drinking water preparation system designed for the 29th Olympic Games with 50% recovery. The feed water was Beijing tap water. Membrane fouling during the DCMD process was discussed, and acidification and accelerated precipitation softening was used as the pretreatment method to control the calcium scaling. Experimental results showed that acidification can alleviate and even eliminate CaCO3 scaling, but CaSO4 crystallization still occurred and led to a sharp decline of module efficiency. Accelerated precipitation softening enabled a high removal efficiency of Ca2 + , so both the CaCO3 and CaSO4 scaling was efficiently controlled. After proper pretreatment to control calcium scaling, the primary reverse osmosis concentrate could be concentrated 40 times and then the whole recovery was enhanced to 98.8%.