bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ca2+‐stimulated adenylyl cyclases regulate the L‐type Ca2+ current in guinea‐pig atrial myocytes
Authors: Collins Thomas P. , Terrar Derek A.
Published: February 2012

Key points 

Adenylyl cyclases (ACs), the enzymes that synthesize cAMP, are essential for the inotropic response of cardiac muscle to adrenergic stimulation.

Ca2+‐stimulated isoforms of AC have previously been identified in the sino‐atrial node of the heart, where they contribute to pacemaking.

In this study, we demonstrate that Ca2+‐stimulated isoforms of AC regulate the L‐type Ca2+ current in atrial myocytes.

This regulation of the L‐type Ca2+ current provides a feedback mechanism for the Ca2+ released from intracellular stores to control Ca2+ entry to atrial myocytes.

These Ca2+‐stimulated ACs may be significant for the compartmentalization of cAMP signalling in atrial myocytes.
TGF-β Signaling in Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition: The Role of Shear Stress and Primary CiliaA Presentation from the Keystone Symposium on Epithelial Plasticity and Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition, Vancouver, Canada, 21 to 26 January 2011.
Authors: ten Dijke Peter , Egorova Anastasia D. , Goumans Marie-José T. H. , Poelmann Robert E. , Hierck Beerend P.
Published: February 2012

The loss of primary cilia is a prerequisite for flow-induced endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition in heart development.
A Lipid Sensing GPCR
Authors: Vinson Valda
Published: February 2012

A channel in a lipid-dependent GPCR allows ligand to access its binding site from within the plasma membrane.
Adapting to the Cold
Authors: Vinson Valda
Published: February 2012

Octopus potassium channels function efficiently at different temperatures due to RNA editing and not genetic differences.
Complete Genomic Sequence of Duck Flavivirus from China
Authors: Liu Ming , Liu Chunguo , Li Gang , Li Xiaojun , Yin Xiuchen , Chen Yuhuan , Zhang Yun
Published: February 2012

We report here the complete genomic sequence of the Chinese duck flavivirus TA strain. This work is the first to document the complete genomic sequence of this previously unknown duck flavivirus strain. The sequence will help further relevant epidemiological studies and extend our general knowledge of flaviviruses.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Novel Picornavirus, Canine Picornavirus, Discovered in Dogs
Authors: Woo Patrick C. Y. , Lau Susanna K. P. , Choi Garnet K. Y. , Yip Cyril C. Y. , Huang Yi , Tsoi Hoi-Wah , Yuen Kwok-Yung
Published: February 2012

We discovered a novel canine picornavirus in fecal, nasopharyngeal, and urine samples from dogs. The coding potential of its genome (5′-VP4-VP2-VP3-VP1-2A-2B-2C-3A-3B-3C
pro
-3D
pol
-3′, where 3C
pro
is 3C protease and 3D
pol
is 3D polymerase) is similar to those of other picornaviruses, with putative P1, P2, and P3 sharing 54% to 58%, 60%, and 64% to 67% amino acid identities with bat picornavirus groups 1, 2, and 3.
Oxydation von N,N,N',N'-Tetramethylbenzidin und Malachitgrün mit dem Diphosphatkomplex des dreiwertigen Mangans
Authors: Barek Jiří , Berka Antonín , Nováková Ludmila
Published: February 2012

Es wurde die Oxydation des N,N,N',N'-Tetramethylbenzidins und Malachitgrüns mit dem Diphosphatkomplex des dreiwertigen Mangans untersucht. Wie festgestellt wurde, entsteht in beiden Fällen Diphenochinon-(4,4')-bis-dimethylimin, das einer witeren Oxydation nicht unterliegt. Diese Reaktion kann zur indirekten Bestimmung beider Substanzen, die auf deren Oxydation mit Reagensüberschuß und auf der Absorbanzmessung beruht, herangezogen werden, wobei die Absorbanzmessung dem entstehenden Diphenochinon-(4,4')-bis-dimethylimin entspricht. Es wurden die Korrektheit und Reproduzierbarkeit dieser Methode bei der Bestimmung des Malachitgrüngehaltes in der praktischen Probe bestätigt.
PROBING THE LEFT–RIGHT TWIN HIGGS MODEL VIA PROCESS $e^{+}e^{-}\rightarrow b\bar{b}$ AT THE ILC
Authors: YANG DAPENG , YANG BINGFANG , XU BIN
Published: February 2012

In the framework of the Left–Right Twin Higgs model, we studied the bottom-quark pair production via e+e- collision at the International Linear Collider. We calculated the bottom-quark pair production cross-section at tree level and the relevant differential distributions. The relative correction of the production cross-section is significant and the result will be a sensitive probe of the Left–Right Twin Higgs model.
DYNAMICS AND BIFURCATIONS OF A NONHOLONOMIC HEISENBERG SYSTEM
Authors: MOLINA-BECERRA MÓNICA , GALÁN-VIOQUE JORGE , FREIRE EMILIO
Published: February 2012

We analyze both theoretically and numerically the dynamical behavior of a modification of a nonholonomic Hamiltonian system known as the Heisenberg system. The equations of motion are derived by computing the Lagrange multiplier in terms of the Poisson commutator. The presence of the constraint induces a nontrivial dynamical behavior that has been investigated by plotting the Poincaré section for the reduced system and taking advantage of a conserved quantity and the reversibilities. The dynamics is organized around two Lyapunov families of periodic orbits whose bifurcation behavior has been analyzed with a continuation technique both on the conserved quantity and on the parameters of the problem. The nongeneric branching behavior of the normal modes is theoretically explained by studying the variational equations that reduces to a Hill equation and its well known coexistence property. Invariant tori around the elliptic periodic orbits have been numerically detected but not further analyzed.
GRAPH SKEIN MODULES AND SYMMETRIES OF SPATIAL GRAPHS
Authors: CHBILI NAFAA
Published: February 2012

In this paper, we compute the graph skein algebra of the punctured disk with two holes. Then, we apply the graph skein techniques developed here to establish necessary conditions for a spatial graph to have a symmetry of order p, where p is a prime. The obstruction criteria introduced here extend some results obtained earlier for symmetric spatial graphs.
EXACT CALCULATION OF THE DIRECT PART OF THE NUCLEON–NUCLEUS SPIN-ORBIT POTENTIAL IN BRUECKNER THEORY
Authors: PACHOURI DIPTI , RAFI S. , SHARMA MANJARI , HAIDER W.
Published: February 2012

We have shown that the commonly used series expansion given by Greenlees et al. and Scheerbaum for calculating the spin-orbit potential is not rapidly convergent and that exact calculation of the dominant direct part can be easily done. Our exact calculation of the microscopic optical potential for the scattering of protons from 40 Ca and 208 Pb at 65 MeV and 200 MeV shows that the direct part is substantially different from the results using series expansion. Our results show that the spin-orbit potential affects the cross-section even at intermediate angles specially at high energies. The results presented here have direct application for calculating spin-orbit potential of all strongly interacting Fermionic probes.
THE LANDSCAPE OF INCONSISTENCY: A PERSPECTIVE
Authors: ZHANG DU , GRÉGOIRE ÉRIC
Published: February 2012

The focus of this introduction to this special issue is to draw a picture as comprehensive as possible about various dimensions of inconsistency. In particular, we consider: (1) levels of knowledge at which inconsistency occurs; (2) categories and morphologies of inconsistency; (3) causes of inconsistency; (4) circumstances of inconsistency; (5) persistency of inconsistency; (6) consequences of inconsistency; (7) metrics for inconsistency; (8) theories for handling inconsistency; (9) dependencies among occurrences of inconsistency; and (10) problem domains where inconsistency has been studied. The take-home message is that inconsistency is ubiquitous and handling inconsistency is consequential in our endeavors. How to manage and reason in the presence of inconsistency presents a very important issue in semantic computing, cloud computing, social computing, and many other data-rich or knowledge-rich computing systems.
A LOGICAL ANALYSIS OF RULE INCONSISTENCY
Authors: BESNARD PHILIPPE
Published: February 2012

Representing knowledge in a rule-based system takes place by means of "if…then…" statements. These are called production rules for the reason that new information is produced when the rule fires. The logic attached to rule-based systems is taken to be classical inasmuch as "if…then…" is encoded by material implication. However, it appears that the notion of triggering "if…then…" amounts to different logical definitions. The paper investigates the matter, with an emphasis upon consistency because reading "if… then…" statements as rules calls for a notion of rule consistency that does not conform with consistency in the classical sense. Natural deduction is used to explore entailment and equivalence among various formulations and properties.
A FRAMEWORK FOR HANDLING LOGICAL INCONSISTENCIES IN THE FUSION OF BOOLEAN KNOWLEDGE BASES
Authors: GRÉGOIRE ÉRIC , ZHANG DU
Published: February 2012

In this paper, a framework for fusing several Boolean knowledge bases together is presented. The focus is on detecting inconsistencies and overcoming them so that a consistent global knowledge base is obtained. The framework is based on two cornerstones: detecting inconsistencies using algorithmic techniques to compute minimally unsatisfiable sub-formulas, and adopting a logic-based weakening approach to restore consistency for the fused knowledge. The dynamics in the framework in terms of both model-theoretic and the fixpoint semantics is then investigated.
Compact Support FDK Kernel Reconstruction Model Base on Approximate Inverse
Authors: Feng Jun , Zhang Jian-Zhou , Zhou Bin
Published: February 2012

A novel CT reconstruction model is proposed, and the reconstruction is completed by this kernel‐based method. The reconstruction kernel can be obtained by combining the approximate inverse method with the FDK algorithm. The computation of the kernel is moderate, and the reconstruction results can be improved by introducing the compact support version of the kernel. The efficiency and the accuracy are shown in the numerical experiments.
Development of an Antimicrobial Stewardship Intervention Using a Model of Actionable Feedback
Authors: Patel Sameer J. , Saiman Lisa , Duchon Jennifer M. , Evans David , Ferng Yu-hui , Larson Elaine
Published: February 2012

We describe the development of an audit and feedback intervention to improve antibiotic prescribing in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) using a theoretical framework. Participants included attending physicians, neonatal fellows, pediatric residents, and nurse practitioners. The intervention was based on the “model of actionable feedback” which emphasizes that feedback should be timely, individualized, nonpunitive, and customized to be effective. We found that real-time feedback could not be provided for the parameters established in this study, as we had to collect and analyze numerous data elements to assess appropriate initiation and continuation of antibiotics and required longer intervals to examine trends in antibiotic use. We learned during focus groups that NICU clinicians strongly resisted assigning individual responsibility for antibiotic prescribing as they viewed this as a shared responsibility informed by each patient's laboratory data and clinical course. We were able to create a non-punitive atmosphere thanks to written informed consent from NICU attendings and assurance from leadership that prescribing practices would not be used to assess job performance. We provided customized, meaningful feedback integrating input from the participants. Adapting the principles of the “model of actionable feedback” to provide feedback for antimicrobial prescribing practices proved challenging in the NICU setting.
Intra-Abdominal Hypertension and Abdominal Compartment Syndrome in Association with Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm in the Endovascular Era: Vigilance Remains Critical
Authors: Bozeman Matthew C. , Ross Charles B.
Published: February 2012

Intra-abdominal hypertension (IAH) and abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) are common complications of ruptured abdominal aortoiliac aneurysms (rAAAs) and other abdominal vascular catastrophes even in the age of endovascular therapy. Morbidity and mortality due to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiple organ failure (MOF) are significant. Recognition and management of IAH are key critical care measures which may decrease morbidity and improve survival in these vascular patients. Two strategies have been utilized: expectant management with prompt decompressive laparotomy upon diagnosis of threshold levels of IAH versus prophylactic, delayed abdominal closure based upon clinical parameters at the time of initial repair. Competent management of the abdominal wound with preservation of abdominal domain is also an important component of the care of these patients. In this review, we describe published experience with IAH and ACS complicating abdominal vascular catastrophes, experience with ACS complicating endovascular repair of rAAAs, and techniques for management of the abdominal wound. Vigilance and appropriate management of IAH and ACS remains critically important in decreasing morbidity and optimizing survival following catastrophic intra-abdominal vascular events.
Comparison of Analog and Digital Self-Powered Systems in Multimodal Vibration Suppression
Authors: Shimose Shigeru , Makihara Kanjuro , Onoda Junjiro
Published: February 2012

This paper compares our analog and digital self-powered systems for vibration suppression, and shows experimental results of multimodal vibration suppression for both self-powered systems. The experimental results are evaluated in light of the damping performance and adaptability under various vibrational conditions. We demonstrate various examples of our innovative vibration suppression method, called “digital self-powered.” Proper status switching of an electric circuit made up of an inductor and a selective switch connected to a piezoelectric transducer attenuates the vibrations. The control logic calculation and the switching events are performed with a digital microprocessor that is driven by the electrical energy converted from the mechanical vibration energy. Therefore, this vibration suppression system runs without any external power supply. The self-powering feature makes this suppression method useful in various applications. To realize an ideal vibration suppression system that is both self-powered and effective in suppressing multimode vibration, sophisticated control logic is implemented in the digital microprocessor. We demonstrate that our digital self-powered system can reduce the vibrational displacements of a randomly excited multimodal structure, by as much as 35.5%.
Insulin in Central Nervous System: More than Just a Peripheral Hormone
Authors: Duarte Ana I. , Moreira Paula I. , Oliveira Catarina R.
Published: February 2012

Insulin signaling in central nervous system (CNS) has emerged as a novel field of research since decreased brain insulin levels and/or signaling were associated to impaired learning, memory, and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Thus, besides its well-known role in longevity, insulin may constitute a promising therapy against diabetes- and age-related neurodegenerative disorders. More interestingly, insulin has been also faced as the potential missing link between diabetes and aging in CNS, with Alzheimer's disease (AD) considered as the “brain-type diabetes.” In fact, brain insulin has been shown to regulate both peripheral and central glucose metabolism, neurotransmission, learning, and memory and to be neuroprotective. And a future challenge will be to unravel the complex interactions between aging and diabetes, which, we believe, will allow the development of efficient preventive and therapeutic strategies to overcome age-related diseases and to prolong human “healthy” longevity. Herewith, we aim to integrate the metabolic, neuromodulatory, and neuroprotective roles of insulin in two age-related pathologies: diabetes and AD, both in terms of intracellular signaling and potential therapeutic approach.
Preclinical Remodeling of Human Prostate Cancer through the PTEN/AKT Pathway
Authors: De Velasco Marco A. , Uemura Hirotsugu
Published: February 2012

Knowledge gained from the identification of genetic and epigenetic alterations that contribute to the progression of prostate cancer in humans is now being implemented in the development of functionally relevant translational models. GEM (genetically modified mouse) models are being developed to incorporate the same molecular defects associated with human prostate cancer. Haploinsufficiency is common in prostate cancer and homozygous loss ofPTENis strongly correlated with advanced disease. In this paper, we discuss the evolution of thePTENknockout mouse and the cooperation betweenPTENand other genetic alterations in tumor development and progression. Additionally, we will outline key points that make these models key players in the development of personalized medicine, as potential tools for target and biomarker development and validation as well as models for drug discovery.
A Study of the Deformation, Network, and Aging of Polyethylene Oxide Films by Infrared Spectroscopy and Calorimetric Measurements
Authors: Bergeron Carl , Perrier Etienne , Potier Aymeric , Delmas Geneviève
Published: February 2012

The calorimetric and infrared (IR) spectroscopy measurements of polyethylene oxide (PEO) are used to evaluate the deformation and relaxation that films experience during a temperature cycle (30°C–90°C–30°C). After melting, the intensity of some bands decreases by 10 to 70%. During the temperature cycle, the C–O band in the 1100 cm−1 region and the C–C–O deformation bands at 650 and 500 cm−1 show some new features. A network of cooperative oxygen-hydrogen interactions between the PEO chains form in films with special history, namely, in thermally treated films, in thin films prepared from gel forming solutions, and in thick films after aging. The interchain interaction network is suggested from the IR absorption bands in the 1200 and 900 cm−1 region and also from small bands at 1144 and 956 cm−1. The network seems absent or reduced in thin films. IR spectroscopy appears a sensitive technique to study chain conformations in PEO films and in other materials where order, disorder, and the formation of intermolecular interactions coexist.
Spatial Distributions of Picoplankton and Viruses in the Changjiang Estuary and Its Adjacent Sea Area during Summer
Authors: Li Yun , Li Daoji
Published: February 2012

Simultaneous determination of picoplankton (i.e.,Synechococcusspp.,Prochlorococcusspp., picoeukaryotes, and heterotrophic bacteria) and viruses in the Changjiang (Yangtze) River estuary and its adjacent sea area was made using flow cytometry during a cruise in June 2006. The results show thatProchlorococcusin all samples was below detectable level. The abundances ofSynechococcus, picoeukaryotes, heterotrophic bacteria, and viruses ranged from0.00to1.22×108cell L−1,0.01×106to1.42×107cells L−1,8.40×107to4.29×109cells L−1, and1.20×107to1.06×1010particles L−1, respectively. The determined picoplankton groups and viruses distinctly increased with the distance off the estuary and where the maximum abundance that occurred in these groups was different somewhat due to the individual sensitivity to environmental changes. Viral abundance showed a positive correlation with salinity and negative correlations with turbidity and inorganic nutrient concentrations. Positive linear relations were found betweenSynechococcus, heterotrophic bacteria, and viruses.
The Novel Polymorphic Form of Bis(3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniatricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decane) bis(μ4-oxo)-tris(μ3-oxo)-nonakis(μ2-oxo)-nonaaqua-decaoxo-hepta-molybdenum-di-zinc(II) dihydrate, Synthesis, and Properties
Authors: Kruszynski Rafal , Sieranski Tomasz , Lewinski Bartlomiej , Trzesowska-Kruszynska Agata , Czubacka Ewelina
Published: February 2012

The reaction of molybdophosphoric acid with zinc carbonate followed by addition of hmta leads to formation of a triclinic polymorph of bis(3,5,7-triaza-1-azoniatricyclo[3.3.1.13,7]decane) bis(μ4-oxo)-tris(μ3-oxo)-nonakis(μ2-oxo)-nonaaqua-decaoxo-hepta-molybdenum-di-zinc(II) dihydrate in a one pot simple reaction. The obtained compound has been characterised by IR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and X-ray crystallography. A detailed comparison between both polymorphic forms: triclinic a=22.758 Å, b=24.702 Å, c=31.995 Å, α=101.206°, β=103.256°, γ=105.736°, and V=16203.8 Å3 and monoclinic a=43.120 Å, b=12.399 Å, c=16.285 Å, α=90.00°, β=111.12°, γ=90.00°, and V=8122 Å3 was performed. The influence of the synthesis procedure on polymorph formation was described.
A History of Urban Planning and Infectious Diseases: Colonial Senegal in the Early Twentieth Century
Authors: Bigon Liora
Published: February 2012

This paper deals with the spatial implications of the French sanitary policies in early colonial urban Senegal. It focuses on the French politics of residential segregation following the outbreak of the bubonic plague in Dakar in 1914, and their precedents in Saint Louis. These policies can be conceived as most dramatic, resulting in a displacement of a considerable portion of the indigenous population, who did not want or could not afford to build à l’européen, to the margins of the colonial city. Aspects of residential segregation are analysed here through the perspective of cultural history and history of colonial planning and architecture, in contrast to the existing literature on this topic. The latter dilates on the statutory policies of the colonial authorities facing the 1914 plague in Dakar, the plague's sociopolitical implications, and the colonial politics of public health there. In the light of relevant historiography, and a variety of secondary and primary sources, this paper exposes the contradictions that were inherent in the French colonial regime in West Africa. These contradictions were wisely used by the African agency, so that such a seemingly urgent segregationist project was actually never accomplished.
Determining Surgical Candidacy in Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Mansouri Alireza , Fallah Aria , Valiante Taufik A.
Published: February 2012

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is the most common form of adult epilepsy that is amenable to surgical treatment. In the carefully selected patient, excellent seizure outcome can be achieved with minimal or no side effects from surgery. This may result in improved psychosocial functioning, achieving higher education, and maintaining or gaining employment. The objective of this paper is to discuss the surgical selection process of a patient with TLE. We define what constitutes a patient that has medically refractory TLE, describe the typical history and physical examination, and distinguish between mesial TLE and neocortical TLE. We then review the role of routine (ambulatory/sleep-deprived electroencephalography (EEG), video EEG, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), neuropsychological testing, and Wada testing) and ancillary preoperative testing (positron emission tomography, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), subtraction ictal SPECT correlated to MRI (SISCOM), magnetoencephalography, magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and functional MRI) in selecting surgical candidates. We describe the surgical options for resective epilepsy surgery in TLE and its commonly associated risks while highlighting some of the controversies. Lastly, we present teaching cases to illustrate the presurgical workup of patients with medically refractory TLE.
Inflammation and Microvasculopathy in Renal Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Patschan Daniel , Patschan S. , Müller G. A.
Published: February 2012

Acute renal failure (ARF) severely worsens prognosis of hospitalized patients. The most frequent cause of intrarenal ARF is transient or prolonged renal hypoperfusion (ischemia). Ischemia primarily affects the function and structure of tubular epithelial cells, which, in severe cases, is characterized by epithelial cell necrosis. Nevertheless, ischemia does not exclusively lead to alterations of epithelial cells but also causes interstitial inflammation and interstitial microvasculopathy. Both inflammation and microvasculopathy are particularly important in terms of postischemic kidney repair. Postischemic microvasculopathy is characterized by endothelial cell swelling with subsequent microvascular occlusion. Thus, reperfusion is inhibited (no-reflow phenomenon). Such endothelial cell dysfunction offers new therapeutic perspectives in ischemic ARF. Newer observations point towards the role of the so-called endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the treatment of ARF. Systemic administration of EPCs to mice with bilateral renal ischemia mitigates postischemic endothelial cell dysfunction and protects animals from acute renal failure.
The Symptom and Genetic Diversity of Cassava Brown Streak Viruses Infecting Cassava in East Africa
Authors: Mohammed I. U. , Abarshi M. M. , Muli B. , Hillocks R. J. , Maruthi M. N.
Published: February 2012

The genetic and symptom diversity of six virus isolates causing cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) in the endemic (Kenya, Mozambique, and Tanzania) and the recently affected epidemic areas (Uganda) of eastern Africa was studied. Five cassava varieties; Albert, Colombian, Ebwanateraka, TMS60444 (all susceptible) and Kiroba (tolerant) were graft inoculated with each isolate. Based on a number of parameters including the severity of leaf and root symptoms, and the extent of virus transmission by grafting, the viruses were classified as either severe or relatively mild. These results were further confirmed by the mechanical inoculation of 13 herbaceous hosts in which the virulent isolates caused plant death inNicotiana clevelandiiandN. benthamianawhereas the milder isolates did not. Phylogenetic analysis of complete coat protein gene sequences of these isolates together with sequences obtained from 14 other field-collected samples from Kenya and Zanzibar, and reference sequences grouped them into two distinct clusters, representing the two species of cassava brown streak viruses. Put together, these results did not suggest the association of a hypervirulent form of the virus with the current CBSD epidemic in Uganda. Identification of the severe and milder isolates, however, has further implications for disease management and quarantine requirements.
Sino-European Transcontinental Basic and Clinical High-Tech Acupuncture Studies—Part 1: Auricular Acupuncture Increases Heart Rate Variability in Anesthetized Rats
Authors: Gao Xin-Yan , Liu Kun , Zhu Bing , Litscher Gerhard
Published: February 2012

Evidence-based research concerning the effects of high-tech acupuncture on autonomic function was performed by two research teams from China and Austria. This study describes the first transcontinental teleacupuncture measurements in animals. Heart rate (HR) and heart rate variability (HRV) recordings in 10 male Sprague-Dawley anesthetized rats were performed under stable conditions in Beijing, China, and the data analysis was completed in Graz, Austria. The electrocardiograms (ECGs) were recorded by an HRV Medilog AR12 system during acupuncture of the ear and body (PC6 Neiguan, CV12 Zhongwan, ST36 Zusanli). The data were analyzed using specially adapted novel Austrian software. HR did not change significantly during any acupuncture stimulation in anesthetized rats (ear acupuncture, PC6, CV12, or ST36). Total HRV only changed significantly(P=0.025)during auricular acupuncture (acupoint heart). The low-frequency/high-frequency ratio parameter decreased significantly(P=0.03)during stimulation of ST36. This change was based on intensification of the related mechanism of blood pressure regulation that has been demonstrated in previous studies in humans. Modernization of acupuncture research performed as a collaboration between China and Austria has also been demonstrated.
Forest Plantations and Water Consumption: A Strategy for Hydrosolidarity
Authors: Lima W. P. , Laprovitera R. , Ferraz S. F. B. , Rodrigues C. B. , Silva M. M.
Published: February 2012

A case study of a deliberate change in the design of a new Eucalyptus plantation, aimed at alleviating water impacts, was carried out in an experimental catchment located in the center part of the State of São Paulo, Brazil. It involved the identification of saturated areas in the catchment, based essentially on topographic analysis, as a tool to help in zoning of the new forest plantation, with the objective of improving the flow of water to downstream users, as well as to avoid water quality changes. The design involved the allocation of part of the identified saturated areas as water conservation areas, as well as a change in the spacing of the planting. Measurements of tree growth at the age of two years of the new plantation reveal that the forest productivity of the new plantation design, in terms of projected annual wood increment at the end of the rotation, will be similar to the old plantation scheme, despite the loss of planted area. Preliminary results of the continuous monitoring of the catchment water balance appear to indicate that the objective of increasing the catchment water yield may possibly also be achieved.
The Effects of Meditation on Perceived Stress and Related Indices of Psychological Status and Sympathetic Activation in Persons with Alzheimer's Disease and Their Caregivers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Innes K. E. , Selfe T. K. , Brown C. J. , Rose K. M. , Thompson-Heisterman A.
Published: February 2012

Objective. To investigate the effects of an 8-week meditation program on perceived stress, sleep, mood, and related outcomes in adults with cognitive impairment and their caregivers.Methods. Community-dwelling adults with a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or early-stage Alzheimer’s disease, together with their live-in caregivers, were enrolled in the study. After a brief training, participants were asked to meditate for 11 minutes, twice daily for 8 weeks. Major outcomes included measures of perceived stress (Perceived Stress Scale), sleep (General Sleep Disturbance Scale), mood (Profile of Mood States), memory functioning (Memory Functioning Questionnaire), and blood pressure. Participants were assessed pre- and post-intervention.Results. Ten participants (5 of 6 dyads) completed the study. Treatment effects did not vary by participant status; analyses were thus pooled across participants. Adherence was good (meditation sessions completed/week:X=11.4±1.1). Participants demonstrated improvement in all major outcomes, including perceived stress (P<0.001), mood (overall,P=0.07; depression,P=0.01), sleep (P<0.04), retrospective memory function (P=0.04), and blood pressure (systolic,P=0.004; diastolic,P=0.065).Conclusions. Findings of this exploratory trial suggest that an 8-week meditation program may offer an acceptable and effective intervention for reducing perceived stress and improving certain domains of sleep, mood, and memory in adults with cognitive impairment and their caregivers.
Combinatorial Chemotherapeutic Efficacy in Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Can Be Predicted by a Signaling Model of CD20 Pharmacodynamics
Authors: Harrold John M. , Straubinger Robert M. , Mager Donald E.
Published: February 2012

Combination chemotherapy represents the standard-of-care for non-Hodgkin lymphoma. However, the development of new therapeutic regimens is empirical and this approach cannot be used prospectively to identify novel or optimal drug combinations. Quantitative system pharmacodynamic models could promote the discovery and development of combination regimens based upon first principles. In this study, we developed a mathematical model that integrates temporal patterns of drug exposure, receptor occupancy, and signal transduction to predict the effects of the CD20 agonist rituximab in combination with rhApo2L/TNF-related apoptosis inducing ligand or fenretinide, a cytotoxic retinoid, upon growth kinetics in non-Hodgkin lymphoma xenografts. The model recapitulated major regulatory mechanisms, including target-mediated disposition of rituximab, modulation of proapoptotic intracellular signaling induced by CD20 occupancy, and the relative efficacy of death receptor isoforms. The multiscale model coupled tumor responses to individual anticancer agents with their mechanisms of action in vivo, and the changes in Bcl-xL and Fas induced by CD20 occupancy were linked to explain the synergy of these drugs. Tumor growth profiles predicted by the model agreed with cell and xenograft data, capturing the apparent pharmacologic synergy of these agents with fidelity. Together, our findings provide a mechanism-based platform for exploring new regimens with CD20 agonists. Cancer Res; 72(7); 1632–41. ©2012 AACR.
Jab1/CSN5 Negatively Regulates p27 and Plays a Role in the Pathogenesis of Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Pan Yunbao , Zhang Qingxiu , Tian Ling , Wang Xin , Fan Xiaohang , Zhang Huizhong , Claret Francois X. , Yang Huiling
Published: February 2012

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is an Epstein-Barr virus–associated malignancy most common in East Asia and Africa. Aberrant expression of Jab1/CSN5, a negative regulator of the cell-cycle inhibitor p27, is correlated with reduced p27 expression and associated with advanced tumor stage and poor prognosis in several human cancers. In this study, we examined the functional relationship between Jab1 and p27 protein expression in NPC. Immunohistochemical analysis showed an inverse association between Jab1 and p27 in NPC tissue samples, and overexpression of Jab1 correlated with poor survival in patients with NPC. Mechanistically, Jab1 and p27 were found to interact directly in NPC cells, with Jab1 mediating p27 degradation in a proteasome-dependent manner. Knockdown of Jab1 resulted in a remarkable increase in p27 levels and inhibition of cell proliferation, indicating that Jab1 targets p27 for degradation, thereby controlling its stability. Jab1 depletion also enhanced the antitumor effects of cisplatin in NPC cells. Together, our findings suggest that Jab1 overexpression plays an important role in the pathogenesis of NPC through Jab1-mediated p27 degradation. Jab1 therefore represents a novel diagnostic marker and therapeutic target in patients with NPC. Cancer Res; 72(7); 1890–900. ©2012 AACR.
MAPKAP Kinase 2 Overexpression Influences Prognosis in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors and Associates with Copy Number Variations on Chromosome 1 and Expression of p38 MAP Kinase and ETV1
Authors: Birner Peter , Beer Andrea , Vinatzer Ursula , Stary Susanne , Höftberger Romana , Nirtl Nadine , Wrba Fritz , Streubel Berthold , Schoppmann Sebastian F.
Published: February 2012

Purpose: ETV1 has been proposed to be activated by KIT mutations in gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST). The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical role of ETV1 and associated proteins in GIST.

Experimental Design: Expressions of ETV1, MAPKAP kinase 2 (MAPKAPK2), phosphorylated p38 MAP kinase (pp38), phosphorylated MSK1 (pMSK1), phosphorylated RSK1, COP1, and KIT protein were determined immunohistochemically in 139 GISTs. Sequence analysis of KIT, PDGFRA, and MAPKAPK2 and FISHs of ETV1 as well as chromosomes 1 and 7 were done.

Results: Prominent ETV1 expression was seen in 50% of GISTs, but no correlation with clinical outcome was found. Correlation of ETV1 expression and KIT mutation was seen in 60% of cases. MAPKAPK2 overexpression (n = 62/44.6%) correlated with pp38 expression (P = 0.021, χ2 test) and alterations of chromosome 1 (n = 17, P = 0.024, χ2 test). In one of 20 sequenced cases with high MAKAPK2 expression, a putative damaging MAPKAPK2 gene mutation was found. All relapsing GISTs with very low/low risk according to Fletcher showed high MAPKAPK2 and KIT expression. MAPKAPK2 overexpression was an independent prognostic factor for disease-free survival (P = 0.006, Cox regression).

Conclusion: ETV1 is not universally overexpressed in GIST and seems to also be induced by pathways other than KIT mutation. Nevertheless, its clinical relevance is low. Overexpression of ETV1 inhibitor MAPKAPK2 is associated with shorter survival in GIST, indicating a clinically relevant role of this gene not reported previously. Patients with low-risk GISTs showing MAPKAPK2 overexpression might profit from early adjuvant tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 18(7); 1879–87. ©2012 AACR.
Epigenetics: A Tool to Understand Diet-Related Cardiovascular Risk?
Authors: Zaina Silvio , Lund Gertrud
Published: February 2012

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality and is projected to hold its grim record as developing countries increase their wealth. Since specific nutritional habits are important risk factors for CVD, it is imperative to understand how ingredients of risk-associated diets convert a healthy cellular transcriptional program into a pathological one. Epigenetics has enriched our view of the genome by showing that DNA-associated regulatory proteins and RNAs, together with chemical modifications of the DNA itself, determine which parts of the DNA chain are transcribed or silent in a given phase of a cell’s life. This complex biological entity – the epigenome – accounts for the enormous phenotypic diversity within a multicellular organism despite its unicellular origin. Crucially, the epigenome can be modified by diet and other exogenous factors, thus suggesting that epigenetic mechanisms might underlie pathological responses to CVD risk factors. Here, we will review the current knowledge of epigenetic mechanisms in diet-gene interactions and propose ways in which epigenetics might clarify the impact of genetic variants on CVD risk.
Influence of Corneal Thickness Changes during Active Uveitis on Goldmann Applanation and Dynamic Contour Tonometry
Authors: Heinz Carsten , Taneri Suphi , Roesel Martin , Heiligenhaus Arnd
Published: February 2012

Background: To compare the influence of central corneal thickness (CCT) during active anterior uveitis and after resolution on intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements by Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) and by dynamic contour tonometry (DCT). Design: Prospective, single-center study including 30 consecutive patients with active unilateral uveitis. Main Outcome Measure: CCT influence on GAT and DCT in active uveitis. Results: Average age of included patients (total n = 30; 16 women) was 46.5 years (range: 22.3–75.4). During activity, the cornea was thicker than on the unaffected side (645 vs. 585 µm, p = 0.0001). At the follow-up visit (inactive time point), the corneal thickness of the affected eye fell to a CCT of 581 µm (p < 0.0001). IOP measured by DCT was always higher than that measured by GAT. IOP was significantly lower during the active phase (GAT = 14.3 ± 5.8 mm Hg, DCT = 16.3 ± 5.9 mm Hg) than when disease was inactive (GAT = 17 ± 6.2 mm Hg, p = 0.016; DCT = 19.6 ± 6.9 mm Hg, p = 0.0006). The two techniques showed a high concordance, with a correlation coefficient of 0.76 (p < 0.001) in the affected eye at the active time point and when inactive 0.95 (p < 0.001). In addition, no systematic difference between these two techniques was observed according to the Bland-Altman method of comparison. No correlation between ΔIOP (GAT – DCT) and CCT could be detected at either time point. Conclusions: CCT increases during active phases of anterior uveitis. The edematous corneas lead to an additional decrease in IOP measurements by GAT and DCT. Both techniques were in good concordance in the patients, and the difference between GAT and DCT IOP readings was not influenced by CCT.
Hemoptysis and Pulmonary Edema in a Scuba Diver Using Diclofenac
Authors: Van Renterghem Dirk , Depuydt Charlotte
Published: February 2012

Hemoptysis and pulmonary edema associated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use is a known condition, but is probably underreported. The mechanisms of induction of pulmonary toxicity are still not well understood. We describe a case of hemoptysis and dyspnea in a scuba diver who was taking diclofenac.
Plasma Pyridoxal 5′-Phosphate Is Not Associated with Inflammatory and Immune Responses after Adjusting for Serum Albumin in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Huang Shih-Chien , Wei James Cheng-Chung , Lin Ping-Ting , Wu Der Jinn , Huang Yi-Chia
Published: February 2012

Background/Aims: Plasma pyridoxal 5′-phosphate (PLP) has been shown to be associated with inflammatory and immune responses.Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and chronic systemic inflammatory disease and patients with RA have lower plasma PLP levels. We studied the relationship between plasma PLP and inflammatory or immune responses in patients with RA. Methods: This study was designed as an observational cross-sectional study. Forty-three patients with RA were allocated to the adequate (PLP ≥20 nmol/l) (n = 30) or deficient vitamin B6 (PLP <20 nmol/l) (n = 13) group according to their fasting plasma PLP concentration on the day blood was taken. Plasma PLP, inflammatory parameters [i.e. high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α] and immune parameters (i.e. white blood cells, total lymphocytes, neutrophils, T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, T helper cells and T suppressor cells) were measured. Results: Patients with deficient plasma PLP concentration were mostly considered to have a systemic inflammatory status (hs-CRP >3 mg/l) and apparently had significantly higher mean hs-CRP levels and immune parameters than patients with adequate plasma PLP concentration. There was no significant association between plasma PLP levels and inflammatory parameters. The significantly inverse correlation of plasma PLP with the numbers of white blood cells, neutrophils, total lymphocytes, T lymphocytes and T helper cells remained after adjusting for serum hemoglobin concentration, but the significant correlation disappeared after serum albumin concentration was also considered. Conclusions: RA patients with deficient plasma PLP concentration had more severe inflammatory and immune responses than patients with adequate plasma PLP concentration. However, there was a lack of association of low plasma PLP concentration with inflammatory and immune parameters after serum albumin concentration was considered in patients with RA.
Surface Geostrophic Circulation of the Mediterranean Sea Derived from Drifter and Satellite Altimeter Data
Authors: Poulain Pierre-Marie , Menna Milena , Mauri Elena
Published: February 2012

Drifter observations and satellite-derived sea surface height data are used to quantitatively study the surface geostrophic circulation of the entire Mediterranean Sea for the period spanning 1992–2010. After removal of the wind-driven components from the drifter velocities and low-pass filtering in bins of 1° × 1° × 1 week, maps of surface geostrophic circulation (mean flow and kinetic energy levels) are produced using the drifter and/or satellite data. The mean currents and kinetic energy levels derived from the drifter data appear stronger/higher with respect to those obtained from satellite altimeter data. The maps of mean circulation estimated from the drifter data and from a combination of drifter and altimeter data are, however, qualitatively similar. In the western basin they show the main pathways of the surface waters flowing eastward from the Strait of Gibraltar to the Sicily Channel and the current transporting waters back westward along the Italian, French, and Spanish coasts. Intermittent and long-lived subbasin-scale eddies and gyres abound in the Tyrrhenian and Algerian Seas. In the eastern basin, the surface waters are transported eastward by several currents but recirculate in numerous eddies and gyres before reaching the northward coastal current off Israel, Lebanon, and Syria and veering westward off Turkey. In the Ionian Sea, the mean geostrophic velocity maps were also produced separately for the two extended seasons and for multiyear periods. Significant variations are confirmed, with seasonal reversals of the currents in the south and changes of the circulation from anticyclonic (prior to 1 July 2007) to cyclonic and back to anticyclonic after 31 December 2005.
Nonlinear Parameter Estimation: Comparison of an Ensemble Kalman Smoother with a Markov Chain Monte Carlo Algorithm
Authors: Posselt Derek J. , Bishop Craig H.
Published: February 2012

This paper explores the temporal evolution of cloud microphysical parameter uncertainty using an idealized 1D model of deep convection. Model parameter uncertainty is quantified using a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithm. A new form of the ensemble transform Kalman smoother (ETKS) appropriate for the case where the number of ensemble members exceeds the number of observations is then used to obtain estimates of model uncertainty associated with variability in model physics parameters. Robustness of the parameter estimates and ensemble parameter distributions derived from ETKS is assessed via comparison with MCMC. Nonlinearity in the relationship between parameters and model output gives rise to a non-Gaussian posterior probability distribution for the parameters that exhibits skewness early and multimodality late in the simulation. The transition from unimodal to multimodal posterior probability density function (PDF) reflects the transition from convective to stratiform rainfall. ETKS-based estimates of the posterior mean are shown to be robust, as long as the posterior PDF has a single mode. Once multimodality manifests in the solution, the MCMC posterior parameter means and variances differ markedly from those from the ETKS. However, it is also shown that if the ETKS is given a multimode prior ensemble, multimodality is preserved in the ETKS posterior analysis. These results suggest that the primary limitation of the ETKS is not the inability to deal with multimodal, non-Gaussian priors. Rather it is the inability of the ETKS to represent posterior perturbations as nonlinear functions of prior perturbations that causes the most profound difference between MCMC posterior PDFs and ETKS posterior PDFs.
Prevalence, Predictors, and Impact of Peripheral Arterial Disease in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Thani Hassan Al , El-Menyar Ayman , Hussein Ahmed , Sadek Ahmed , Sharaf Ahmed , R. Singh , Koshy Valsa , Suwaidi Jassim Al
Published: February 2012

We evaluated the prevalence, predictors, and outcome of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) among hemodialysis (HD) patients (n = 252) in a prospective study (3-year follow-up) conducted in Qatar. Those with PAD (n = 97; 38.5%) were older and more likely to be males and to have diabetes mellitus, prior coronary artery disease (CAD), or cerebrovascular disease. Diabetic retinopathy was an independent predictor of PAD (adjusted odds ratio: 2.7; P = .004). Women had a higher mortality. Three-year all-cause mortality was high in the PAD group (adjusted hazard ratios [HRs] 2.92; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.55-5.51). Other predictors of mortality were age (HR 1.06; 95% CI 1.04-1.10), number of vascular access (HR 2.3; 95% CI 1.04-5.01), and prior CAD (HR 1.8; 95% CI 1.05-3.49). Prevalence of PAD was high among HD patients. Early detection of PAD as well as diabetic retinopathy is of value in identifying an even higher risk population among HD patients.