bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of the abscisic acid receptor VvPYL1 in Vitis vinifera
Authors: Li G. , Xin H. , Zheng X. F. , Li S. , Hu Z.
Published: September 2011

The phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) plays a central role in many developmental processes and in responses to several abiotic stresses. Identification of the ABA receptor is a first step towards understanding ABA signalling. In this study, using homology analysis, we cloned three genes, named VvPYL1, VvPYL2 and VvPYL3, from Vitis vinifera. An isothermal titration calorimetry assay suggested that VvPYL1 could bind to ABA. A phosphatase activity assay demonstrated that VvPYL1 inhibits phosphatase activity of ABI1, a negative regulator of ABA signalling, in the presence of ABA. Subcellular localisation demonstrates that VvPYL1 is distributed in both the nucleus and cytosol, which is similar to the subcellular localisation of ABA receptors in Arabidopsis. We therefore conclude that VvPYL1 is an ABA receptor that modulates ABA signalling by inhibiting type 2C protein phosphatases (PP2Cs).
Influence of the Length of Progestagen Treatment and the Time of Oestradiol Benzoate Application on the Ovulatory Follicle Size and Ovulation Time in Anoestrous and Cyclic Beef Cows
Authors: Manes J , Aller JF , Callejas SS , Hozbor F , Alberio RH
Published: September 2011

Contents

Previous research from our laboratory in beef cattle suggests that the pre‐ovulatory follicle size, maturity and subsequent susceptibility to gonadotropin are influenced by the length of progestagen treatment in artificial insemination programme in beef cows. To test this hypothesis, two experiments were conducted. In experiment 1, 35 anoestrous beef cows received an intravaginal sponge containing 200 mg of medroxyprogesterone acetate. The treatment lasted for 7 (n = 12), 8 (n = 11) or 9 (n = 12) days. Half of the animals in each group were injected with 0.7 mg of oestradiol benzoate (EB) at device removal (0 h) and the other half 24 h later. In experiment 2, 38 cycling beef cows were treated with the same protocols as in experiment 1. Ultrasound examinations were performed to determine the follicular diameter at device removal (dominant follicle), interval to ovulation and ovulatory follicle diameter. The dominant follicle of anoestrous cows with progestagen for 7 days (8.4 ± 1.6 mm) resulted smaller (p < 0.05) than the cows treated for 8 (10.5 ± 1.6 mm) and 9 days (10.6 ± 1.2 mm). However, regardless of the length of the treatments, ovulation time after device removal was longer (p < 0.05) when EB was injected 24 h after withdrawal than at 0 h in anoestrous cows (EB0 = 52.7 ± 4.0 h; EB24 = 70.8 ± 6.2 h) and in cyclic cows (EB0 = 50.0 ± 21.0 h; EB24 = 73.0 ± 20.0 h). In anoestrous cows, the treatment with progestagen for 9 days and EB at 24 h increased the diameter of the ovarian follicle (p = 0.033) but did not affect the diameter of the ovulatory follicle in cyclic cows. In conclusion, increasing the length of progestagen treatment for 8 or 9 days compared to 7 days increased the diameter of the dominant follicle, in anoestrous and cyclic beef cows. Oestradiol benzoate administered at device removal resulted in a shorter interval from device removal to ovulation compared with EB injection 24 h after the end of a progestagen treatment.
Stinging in the oral cavity caused by ingestion of the sperm bags of a squid: A case report
Authors: Shiraki Yukihiro , Kawai Kumi , Kojima Sawako , Suzuki Yasuhiko , Ono Kenzo
Published: September 2011

We present a case of stinging in the oral cavity caused by ingestion of the sperm bags of a squid. The patient experienced severe pain in her oral cavity immediately after eating raw squid. When she was examined at our hospital, we found that several small whitish spindle‐shaped stings were stuck to the mucous membrane of the hard palate. A biopsy was performed, and the whitish stings were removed as well. We also performed a histological examination of the remaining part of the raw squid brought by the patient. The biopsy showed that the sperm bags of the squid had thrust into the squamous epithelium of the patient. The remaining part of the raw squid consisted of the testis and the sperm bags. After removal of all stings, the pain reduced, and the wound healed in due course. Larva migrans and anisakiasis are infections known to be caused by consumption of raw seafood. Although the condition reported here is relatively rare, doctors should also keep this condition in mind for patients reporting pain after eating raw seafood.
When pleural potassium exceeds 5.0 mEq/L, high pleural adenosine deaminase levels do not necessarily indicate tuberculous pleuritis
Authors: KASHIWABARA KOSUKE , OKAMOTO TOMOHISA , YAMANE HIROMI
Published: September 2011

Background and objective:  The aim of this study was to determine whether high levels of pleural adenosine deaminase (pADA) are predictive for tuberculosis when pleural effusions do not satisfy the criteria for lymphocytic effusions or show neutrophil predominance.

Methods:  This was a retrospective observational study of 147 consecutive patients with exudative pleural effusions that were diagnosed by analysis of fluid samples during a 3‐year period from 1 April 2007 to 31 March 2010. Multiple linear correlation tests were used to assess clinical variables as possible predictors of high pADA levels.

Results:  High pleural LDH (pLDH) and pleural potassium (pK) levels were associated with high pADA levels (P < 0.0001). Although there was a linear correlation between pLDH and pADA levels in patients with parapneumonic effusions (PPE) (n = 75), tubercular effusions (n = 21), malignant effusions (n = 41) and miscellaneous effusions (n = 10), a significant linear correlation between pK and pADA levels was observed only in patients with PPE (ρ = 0.525, P < 0.0001). When the cut‐off value for pK was set at 5.0 mEq/L, pADA levels were >50 IU/L and pK levels were >5.0 mEq/L in only one patient (5%) in the tuberculosis group (n = 21) and 15 patients (12%, all with PPE) in the non‐tuberculosis group (n = 126).

Conclusions:  When pK levels exceed 5.0 mEq/L, high pADA levels do not necessarily indicate the presence of tuberculous pleuritis.
Individualized long‐term enzyme therapy for Gaucher disease type 1 in Slovenia
Authors: Benedik‐Dolničar Majda , Kitanovski Lidija
Published: September 2011

Background:  Gaucher disease type 1 (GD1) was the first lysosomal storage disorder for which an effective enzyme replacement therapy was developed. We describe the management of eight GD1 patients in Slovenia who were diagnosed between the ages of 2 and 15 years.

Methods:  Patients were individually assessed to establish initial enzyme doses and monitored frequently to determine the effects of long‐term enzyme dose regimens. Outcomes up to 10 years after long‐term treatment are described by changes in the Zimran severity score index, chitotriosidase and acid phosphatase levels, and after 2001, bone parameters (DEXA bone mineral density scores and the MRI bone marrow burden score).

Results:  Following the initiation of enzyme therapy with individualized dose regimens (range 25–56 U/kg/14 days) and followed by a gradual reduction of doses (range 12–35 U/kg/14 days) during long‐term maintenance, disease status improved in all patients as measured by the Zimran severity score index (from a mean of 11.25 [median 11.5] before therapy to a mean of 4.12 [median 3.5] at last report). Anemia and leucopenia resolved in all patients, chitotriosidase and acid phosphatase levels decreased in all patients (and by over 75% in six patients) within 1 year of treatment. Bone marrow burden scores improved in all monitored patients and DXA scores improved in six of seven monitored patients.

Conclusions:  We conclude that enzyme therapy with relatively low, individualized dose regimens is well‐tolerated and effective in children and young adults with GD1 disease, who are regularly monitored for changes in disease status.
Is bilirubin/albumin ratio correlated with unbound bilirubin concentration?
Authors: Sato Yumi , Morioka Ichiro , Miwa Akihiro , Yokota Tomoyuki , Matsuo Kiyomi , Koda Tsubasa , Fujioka Kazumichi , Morikawa Satoru , Shibata Akio , Yokoyama Naoki , Takahashi Kaoru , Nishio Hisahide , Matsuo Masafumi
Published: September 2011

Background:  The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines recommend that the total bilirubin (TB)/albumin (Alb) ratio (B/A ratio), instead of serum concentration of unbound bilirubin (UB), can be used with TB for determining treatment modality for jaundiced newborns ≥35 weeks of gestation. It is unknown, however, whether the B/A ratio is actually correlated with serum UB.

Methods:  Four hundred and ninety‐seven serum samples were obtained from 209 newborns ≥35 weeks of gestation, who were admitted to Kobe University Hospital. Serum UB concentration was measured using the glucose oxidase–peroxidase method. Serum TB and Alb concentrations were measured on spectrophotometry. B/A ratios were calculated and were linearly compared with serum UB. Furthermore, the accuracy of the B/A ratio was evaluated.

Results:  The B/A ratio was significantly correlated with serum UB concentration. A serum UB concentration of 0.6 µg/dL was in agreement with a B/A ratio of 0.5. For comparison of the number of newborns who had serum UB concentrations ≥ or <0.6 µg/dL and B/A ratios ≥ or <0.5, we found the following characteristics: the concordance rate between serum UB concentrations and the B/A ratio was 94%, sensitivity was 51%, and specificity was 99%.

Conclusions:  The B/A ratio is significantly correlated with serum UB concentration in newborns ≥35 weeks of gestation. The B/A ratio, however, is underestimated when serum UB concentrations are >0.6 µg/dL.
Prevalence of season‐specific Escherichia coli strains in the Yeongsan River Basin of South Korea
Authors: Jang Jeonghwan , Unno Tatsuya , Lee Seung Won , Cho Kyung Hwa , Sadowsky Michael J. , Ko GwangPyo , Kim Joon Ha , Hur Hor‐Gil
Published: September 2011

Seasonal and spatial variation in the genotypic richness of 3480 Escherichia coli isolates obtained from the Yeongsan River basin in South Korea was investigated by using the horizontal fluorophore‐enhanced rep‐PCR (HFERP) DNA fingerprinting technique. The relationship between 60 E. coli isolates from each of 58 freshwater samples was determined by using multidimensional scaling (MDS) analysis and self‐organized maps (SOMs). The MDS analysis, done based on HFERP DNA fingerprints, showed that E. coli isolates obtained in October through December clustered tightly, while those obtained in other sampling periods were more genetically diverse. However, site‐specific E. coli genotypes were not observed. SOMs analysis, done using the 10 most frequently isolated E. coli genotypes, showed the occurrence of season‐specific E. coli genotypes and the main SOMs clusters were most influenced by temperature, strain diversity and biochemical oxygen demand. Diversity among E. coli genotypes tended to decrease as water temperature decreased, and the numbers of E. coli genotypes observed in urban area were greater, more diverse and less dependent on water temperature than those obtained from agricultural areas. Taken together, our findings indicate that that an ecological approach needs to be considered in order to obtain a better understanding of E. coli community dynamics in the environment and that SOMs analysis is useful to visualize the multidimensional dependent variables that are influencing the types and dynamics of specific E. coli genotypes in the environment.
Prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia: its morphological and molecular diagnosis and clinical significance
Authors: Montironi Rodolfo , Mazzucchelli Roberta , Lopez‐Beltran Antonio , Scarpelli Marina , Cheng Liang
Published: September 2011

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

High grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) is the precursor lesion to some forms of adenocarcinoma.

HGPIN should not be confused with intraductal carcinoma. The latter, even when isolated in a prostate biopsy, carries a predictive value of 100% for cancer in a repeat biopsy. Multifocal HGPIN, when isolated in a prostate biopsy, still carries a high predictive value for carcinoma in repeat biopsy. Adenosis and PIA are not considered as precursor lesions.

The aim of the present paper was to review the morphological spectrum of prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN), its relationship to carcinoma of the prostate (PCa) and its clinical significance. We reviewed the literature on premalignant lesions of the prostate, with an emphasis on high grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN). HGPIN is the most likely precursor of PCa, according to almost all available evidence. HGPIN is characterized by cellular proliferations within pre‐existing ducts and acini, with nuclear and nucleolar enlargement similar to PCa. The clinical importance of recognizing HGPIN is based on its association with PCa. In recent years, a significant decline from 36% to 22% in the predictive value of cancer after an initial diagnosis of HGPIN. A major factor contributing to the decreased incidence of cancer after a diagnosis of HGPIN on needle biopsy in the contemporary era is related to increased needle biopsy core sampling, which detects many associated cancers on initial biopsy. Some recent studies have suggested that molecular findings associated with HGPIN might be able to predict which men are more likely to have cancer on re‐biopsy.
Subcapsular renal haematoma after holmium:yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet laser ureterolithotripsy
Authors: Bai Jian , Li Cong , Wang Shaogang , Liu Jihong , Ye Zhangqun , Yu Xiao , Xi Qilin , Ni Min , He Deng
Published: September 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The literature scarcely reports subcapsular renal haematoma (SRH) after lithotripsy techniques.

We reported the incidence, associated risk factors, possible pathogenesis, precautions, and outcomes of SRH after ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL).

OBJECTIVE

To report the incidence, risk factors, and outcomes of subcapsular renal haematoma (SRH) after ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URSL) using holmium:yttrium‐aluminum‐garnet (Ho:YAG) laser to treat ureteric stones.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Prospective data from 2848 URSLs performed between January 2003 and September 2010 were retrospectively analysed.

In all 11 patients were identified as having a SRH after URSL if they had persistent severe ipsilateral flank pain or a palpable mass within a day of surgery, or presented with radiographic evidence of a SRH.

Risk factors for the development and course of the SRH were reported.

RESULTS

Of the 2848 consecutive patients treated with URSL using Ho:YAG laser, 11 (0.4%) developed a SRH after surgery.

Patients who developed a SRH had larger stones (1.4 vs 0.9 cm, P < 0.001), more severe ipsilateral hydronephrosis (P < 0.001), longer operation duration (41 vs 33 min, P < 0.001), and higher perfusion pressure of hydraulic irrigation (176.8 vs 170.2 mmHg, P < 0.001) than patients who did not develop a SRH.

Patient age, sex, body mass index, presence of diabetes mellitus, history of urolithiasis and hypertension, presence of multiple stones, stone location and flow rate of hydraulic irrigation were not statistically different in patients who did or did not develop a SRH.

Most patients were managed conservatively, with no further intervention or with a flank drain, until the SRH resolved. Overall, in three patients the SRH resolved with no further intervention, six patients were treated with a drain only, and two patients had open surgery within a day of presenting with SRH.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of development of SRH after URSL is very low.

Most patients who present with a SRH after URSL, can be treated conservatively with no intervention or with a drain only.
“Dissemination as Intervention”: Building Local HIV Competence through the Report Back of Research Findings to a South African Rural Community
Authors: Campbell Catherine , Nair Yugi , Maimane Sbongile , Sibiya Zweni , Gibbs Andrew
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  What ethical obligations do researchers have to research informants in marginalised communities in serious distress? Our “dissemination as intervention” exercise reported research findings back to a South African rural community—using a dialogical approach which sought to strengthen participants’ confidence and ability to respond more effectively to HIV/AIDS. Nine workshops were conducted with 121 people. Workshops provided opportunities for participants to start developing critical understandings of the possibilities and limitations of their responses to HIV/AIDS, understandings which constitute a necessary (though obviously not sufficient) condition for further action. Workshops alerted participants to the valuable role played by local HIV/AIDS volunteers, facilitating reflection on how local people might better support the volunteers. These discussions served as the impetus for the establishment of a three‐year community‐led intervention to further these goals.
Blair's War on Terror: Selling Intervention to Middle England
Authors: Holland Jack
Published: September 2011

In December 2009 Tony Blair indicated that he would have pursued a policy of intervention in Iraq regardless of Saddam Hussein's possession of weapons of mass destruction. In this situation he would merely have had to employ alternative arguments. Such a statement should come as little surprise. Blair's language throughout his prime ministership was highly strategic; it was framed to achieve support from his primary target audience, ‘Middle England’. Two key tropes—rationality and leadership—were repeatedly deployed in order to sell Blair's wars to the British public. This article demonstrates how Blair's strategically framed language was politically enabling in three analytical moments, helping to craft a conceivable, coercive and communicable British foreign policy discourse.
Supporting Radical Front End Innovation: Perceived Key Factors of Pharmaceutical Innovation
Authors: Aagaard Annabeth , Gertsen Frank
Published: September 2011

This article explores how radical front end innovation is supported in pharmaceutical companies. The empirical field is an explorative case study of front end innovation in the pharmaceutical industry, with an in‐depth case study of the Danish pharmaceutical company, H. Lundbeck A/S, and explorative studies of seven European and American pharmaceutical companies. We aim to show how pharmaceutical innovation is unique in terms of front end innovation (FEI) and what this implies for effective management and organization of radical pharmaceutical FEI. The value added and the contribution of this article to the existing FEI literature is therefore in the specificity of the empirical setting in which the issue is investigated.
Are modern health worries associated with somatosensory amplification, environmental attribution style, and commitment to complementary and alternative medicine?
Authors: KÖTELES FERENC , BÁRÁNY ESZTER , VARSÁNYI PÉTER , BÁRDOS GYÖRGY
Published: September 2011

Köteles, F., Bárány, E., Varsányi, P. & Bárdos, G. (2012). Are modern health worries associated with somatosensory amplification, environmental attribution style, and commitment to complementary and alternative medicine? Scandinavian Journal of Psychology 53, 144–149.

Relationship among modern health worries (MHWs), somatosensory amplification (SSA), and attributional styles was investigated in a cross‐sectional questionnaire study. A total of 99 university students, 104 patients visiting their General Practitioners, and 102 future alternative therapists completed questionnaires assessing MHWs, SSA, negative affect (NA), and psychological, somatic and normalizing (environmental) attribution styles. Significant correlation between SSA and MHWs was found in all three samples. MHWs and psychological attribution style were significantly associated with Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)‐orientation in the regression equation even after controlling for SSA, NA, and sociodemographic variables. MHWs were independent from any attribution styles in the student and patient samples, while significant correlations with all three styles were found in the CAM group. Previously described association between MHWs and SSA was replicated in three different samples. The connection between MHWs and CAM preference seems to be independent from SSA, NA or any particular attribution style.
The Effectiveness of Second Language Strategy Instruction: A Meta‐analysis
Authors: Plonsky Luke
Published: September 2011

Research on the effects of second language strategy instruction (SI) has been extensive yet inconclusive. This meta‐analysis, therefore, aims to provide a reliable, quantitative measure of the effect of SI as well as a description of the relationship between SI and the variables that moderate its effectiveness (i.e., different learning contexts, treatments, and outcome variables). A comprehensive search was conducted to collect the population of SI studies. Effect sizes were calculated for 61 primary studies, contributing a total of 95 unique samples, all of which were coded for potential moderators. The findings indicate a small to medium overall effect of SI (d = 0.49). Variables found to moderate its effectiveness include type and number of strategies, learning context (second vs. foreign language), and length of intervention. Following a contextualized interpretation of the results, the article concludes with a discussion of theoretical, practical, and methodological implications.
AN INCENTIVE‐ROBUST PROGRAMME FOR FINANCIAL REFORM
Authors: CALOMIRIS CHARLES W.
Published: September 2011

Leading up to the recent crisis, government encouraged risky lending, and failed to measure banks' risks credibly or to require sufficient capital. Regulators also failed to recognize losses or enforce intervention protocols for timely resolution. This paper proposes radical policy changes to prevent a recurrence. The need is not for more complex rules and more supervisory discretion, but rather for simpler rules that are meaningful in measuring and limiting risk, hard for market participants to circumvent and credibly enforced by supervisors. Ten ‘incentive‐robust’ regulatory reform proposals are developed that together would constitute the beginning of an effective new regime.
Chief Executive Pay and Remuneration Committee Independence*
Authors: Gregory‐Smith Ian
Published: September 2011

This article tests the impact of remuneration committee independence on Chief Executive (CEO) pay. FTSE350 companies between 1996 and 2008 are used to assess whether remuneration committees facilitate optimal contracting or whether CEOs capture the pay‐setting process and inflate their own remuneration. This panel has a number of advantages over prior samples and, in particular, contains a more comprehensive assessment of non‐executive directors’ independence. No evidence of a relationship between CEO pay and director independence is found, challenging the theory of managerial power and the received wisdom of institutional guidance.
A Unit Root Test Using a Fourier Series to Approximate Smooth Breaks*
Authors: Enders Walter , Lee Junsoo
Published: September 2011

We develop a unit‐root test based on a simple variant of Gallant's (1981) flexible Fourier form. The test relies on the fact that a series with several smooth structural breaks can often be approximated using the low frequency components of a Fourier expansion. Hence, it is possible to test for a unit root without having to model the precise form of the break. Our unit‐root test employing Fourier approximation has good size and power for the types of breaks often used in economic analysis. The appropriate use of the test is illustrated using several interest rate spreads.
Evidence for a curvilinear relationship between sympathetic nervous system activation and women's physiological sexual arousal
Authors: Lorenz Tierney Ahrold , Harte Christopher B. , Hamilton Lisa Dawn , Meston Cindy M.
Published: September 2011

There is increasing evidence that women's physiological sexual arousal is facilitated by moderate sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation. Literature also suggests that the level of SNS activation may play a role in the degree to which SNS activity affects sexual arousal. We provide the first empirical examination of a possible curvilinear relationship between SNS activity and women's genital arousal using a direct measure of SNS activation in 52 sexually functional women. The relationship between heart rate variability (HRV), a specific and sensitive marker of SNS activation, and vaginal pulse amplitude (VPA), a measure of genital arousal, was analyzed. Moderate increases in SNS activity were associated with higher genital arousal, while very low or very high SNS activation was associated with lower genital arousal. These findings imply that there is an optimal level of SNS activation for women's physiological sexual arousal.
Blocking epidermal growth factor receptor attenuates reactive astrogliosis through inhibiting cell cycle progression and protects against ischemic brain injury in rats
Authors: Yang Qin , Wang En‐Yin , Huang Xiao‐Jiang , Qu Wen‐Sheng , Zhang Lin , Xu Jin‐Zhi , Wang Wei , Tian Dai‐Shi
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 644–653.

Excessive astrogliosis is a major impediment to axonal regeneration in CNS disorders. Overcoming this inhibitory barrier of reactive astrocytes might be crucial for CNS repair. Up‐regulation and activation of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) has been shown to trigger quiescent astrocytes into reactive astrocytes in response to several neural injuries. In this study, we investigated the effects of EGFR blockade in cultured astrocytes exposure to oxygen–glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) and in the rat middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) model. Astrocytes in primary culture were used for OGD/R model and adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were used for MCAO model. Cell cycle progression of astrocytes in vitro was studied by flow cytometric analysis. Expression of phosphorylated epidermal growth factor receptor (p‐EGFR), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and cell proliferation‐related molecules in vitro and in vivo were evaluated by immunostaining and western blot analysis. Neuronal apoptosis after MCAO was determined by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) method. Neurologic scores and infarct volumes post‐ischemia were assessed in the rat MCAO model. Astrocytes became activated in the cultured astrocytes exposure to OGD/R and in the rat brain after MCAO, accompanied with phosphorylation of EGFR. EGFR blockade significantly decreased expression of p‐EGFR, inhibited cell cycle progression of astrocytes, and reduced reactive astrogliosis in vitro and in vivo. EGFR inhibition also reduced infarct volumes and improved neurologic scores of rats after MCAO. Our findings indicated that blocking EGFR pathway might attenuate reactive astrogliosis through inhibiting cell cycle progression and protect against ischemic brain injury in rats.
Reduced levels of the tyrosine phosphatase STEP block beta amyloid‐mediated GluA1/GluA2 receptor internalization
Authors: Zhang Yongfang , Kurup Pradeep , Xu Jian , Anderson George M. , Greengard Paul , Nairn Angus C. , Lombroso Paul J.
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 664–672.

Striatal‐Enriched protein tyrosine Phosphatase of MW 61 kDa (STEP61) is a protein tyrosine phosphatase recently implicated in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). STEP61 is elevated in human AD prefrontal cortex and in the cortex of several AD mouse models. The elevated levels of active STEP61 down‐regulate surface expression of GluN1/GluN2B (formerly NR1/NR2B) receptor complexes, while genetically reducing STEP levels rescues both the biochemical and cognitive deficits in a triple transgenic AD mouse model (3xTg‐AD). Here, we show that increased STEP61 also plays a role in beta amyloid (Aβ)‐mediated internalization of the α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐(AMPA) receptor (AMPAR) subunits GluA1/GluA2 (formerly GluR1/GluR2). We purified Aβ oligomers and determined that oligomers, but not monomers, lead to endocytosis of GluA1/GluA2 receptors in cortical cultures. The decrease in GluA1/GluA2 receptors is reversed in the progeny of STEP knock‐out (KO) mice crossed with Tg2576 mice, despite elevated levels of Aβ. These results provide strong support for the hypothesis that STEP61 is required for Aβ‐mediated internalization of GluA1/GluA2 receptors.
Differences in Well‐being between GPs, Medical Specialists, and Private Physicians: The Role of Psychosocial Factors
Authors: Kuusio Hannamaria , Heponiemi Tarja , Aalto Anna‐Mari , Sinervo Timo , Elovainio Marko
Published: September 2011

Objective

To examine the well‐being differences among physicians working in different health care sectors and to test whether psychosocial stressors account for these differences. The well‐being indicators used were psychological distress, self‐rated health, and work ability.

Data Sources/Study Setting

A total of 2,841 randomly selected Finnish physicians (response rate 57 percent) returned the postal questionnaire, of which 2,047 (1,241 women) fulfilled all the participant criteria.

Study Design

This is a cross‐sectional questionnaire study.

Principal Findings

General practitioners and medical specialists experienced lower well‐being than private physicians and this difference was partly explained by differences in psychosocial stressors.

Conclusions

General practitioners and medical specialists report more problems in well‐being than private physicians. It is of particular importance to be aware of the sector‐specific difficulties in work environments.
Interaction Terms in Nonlinear Models
Authors: Karaca‐Mandic Pinar , Norton Edward C. , Dowd Bryan
Published: September 2011

Objectives

To explain the use of interaction terms in nonlinear models.

Study Design

We discuss the motivation for including interaction terms in multivariate analyses. We then explain how the straightforward interpretation of interaction terms in linear models changes in nonlinear models, using graphs and equations. We extend the basic results from logit and probit to difference‐in‐differences models, models with higher powers of explanatory variables, other nonlinear models (including log transformation and ordered models), and panel data models.

Empirical Application

We show how to calculate and interpret interaction effects using a publicly available Stata data set with a binary outcome. Stata 11 has added several features which make those calculations easier.LIMDEPcode also is provided.

Conclusions

It is important to understand why interaction terms are included in nonlinear models in order to be clear about their substantive interpretation.
Can Claims‐Based Data Be Used to Recruit Black and Hispanic Subjects into Clinical Trials?
Authors: Palacio Ana M. , Tamariz Leonardo J. , Uribe Claudia , Li Hua , Salkeld Ellen J. , Hazel‐Fernandez Leslie , Carrasquillo Olveen
Published: September 2011

Objective

Evaluate the accuracy of an algorithm at identifying ethnic minorities from administrative claims for enrollment into a clinical trial.

Data Sources/Study Setting

Claims data from a health benefits company.

Study Design

We compared results of a three‐step algorithm to self‐reported race/ethnicity.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Using the algorithm, we identified subjects with high probability of being minority and ascertained self‐reported race/ethnicity.

Principal Findings

We identified 164 subjects as likely minority based on our algorithm. Of these, 94 completed the survey and 87 identified themselves as black or Hispanic. The positive predictive value of the algorithm was 93 percent (CI: 85–97).

Conclusions

Claims data can be used to efficiently identify minorities for participation in clinical trials.
Cholinergic crisis after neostigmine administration in a dog with acquired focal myasthenia gravis
Authors: Foy Daniel S. , Trepanier Lauren A. , Shelton G. D.
Published: September 2011

Objective

To describe the presentation and successful management of a dog experiencing a cholinergic crisis after neostigmine administration.

Case Summary

An 18‐month‐old neutered male Maltese‐crossbred dog was diagnosed with acquired focal myasthenia gravis based on history and clinical signs of dysphagia and regurgitation, multiple series of thoracic radiographs showing focal to generalized megaesophagus, and an increased acetylcholine receptor antibody titer. After this diagnosis, the dog was initially treated with a single oral dose of pyridostigmine and later injectable neostigmine due to difficulty swallowing. Within 15 minutes of receiving a single dose (0.05 mg/kg) of subcutaneous neostigmine, the dog began showing muscarinic cholinergic signs of salivation and defecation, which progressed to nicotinic cholinergic signs of weakness and tachypnea. Within 30 minutes the dog experienced respiratory arrest and required ventilation. After 16 hours of ventilation, the dog recovered uneventfully and subsequently achieved a clinical and serologic remission from myasthenia gravis without further treatment.

New or Unique Information Provided

Cholinergic crisis and differentiation from a myasthenic crisis is described in the human literature. This case represents the first report in the veterinary literature of a cholinergic crisis in a dog treated with neostigmine.
Mildmay Fane's masque Raguaillo d'Oceano (1640): royalism, Puritanism and sea voyages
Authors: TREVISAN SARA
Published: September 2011

Raguaillo d'Oceano is a masque composed in 1640 by Mildmay Fane, second Earl of Westmorland, for the entertainment of his own household and friends at his Northamptonshire mansion. It presents in allegorical terms a voyage of discovery: all the peoples from the four continents ask King Oceanus leave to conquer the still‐unexplored, fifth corner of the globe, Terra Australis Incognita. Their flashy garments adorned with Latin inscriptions warn against a spiritual and historical disgrace and greed ruling over humankind in spite of geographical boundaries. Raguaillo d'Oceano reveals the official and personal views, on the topical issue of sea voyages, of a Royalist and Puritan land‐owning aristocrat with a passion for the sea. The masque voices Fane's criticism of contemporary England's encouragement of state‐funded maritime voyages, both from a political and moral point of view, an opinion which is however reconciled with the author's interest in things maritime, from geography to contemporary expeditions, and from navigation to constellations. This essay presents a case‐study on the unexpectedly complex cultural history of Raguaillo d'Oceano, as a key to unlock an aristocrat's views on England's increasing attention to its developing overseas commerce and plans for maritime conquest in the 1630s and 1640s.
Intraaortic Balloon Pump Timing Discrepancies in Adult Patients
Authors: Pantalos George M. , Koenig Steven C. , Gillars Kevin J. , Haugh Gilbert S. , Dowling Robert D. , Gray Jr Laman A.
Published: September 2011

The objective of this clinical study was to quantify the incidence and magnitude of intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) inflation and deflation landmark discrepancies associated with the IABP catheter arterial pressure waveform. Cardiac surgery patients with an IABP inserted prior to surgery were recruited. Following cardiac exposure, a high‐fidelity pressure catheter was inserted into the aortic root for digital recording. The radial artery pressure signal was simultaneously recorded from the patient monitor along with the arterial pressure and electrocardiogram waveforms from the IABP console while operating at 1:1 and 1:2 synchronization. In selected patients, recordings were obtained with the IABP timed to the high‐fidelity aortic root waveform. In all 11 patients, inflation and deflation landmark delays were observed when comparing the aortic root waveforms to the IABP arterial pressure waveforms (inflation delay = 74 ± 29 [23–117] ms; deflation delay = 71 ± 37 [24–141] ms, mean ± standard deviation [min–max]). Delays were greater when compared to the radial artery waveform (inflation delay = 175 ± 50 [100–233] ms; deflation delay = 168 ± 52 [100–274] ms). In all cases, the landmark delays were statistically different from zero (P < 0.001). Diastolic augmentation and afterload reduction varied with waveform source. Conflicting indications of afterload reduction occurred in four patients. Timing to the aortic root waveform resulted in greater diastolic pressure augmentation and afterload reduction but mixed changes in stroke volume. Delay and distortion of the arterial waveform was consistently found when measured through the IABP catheter lumen. These delays can alter IABP efficacy and may be eliminated by using high‐fidelity sensing of aortic pressure.
Rapid Shift in Pollinator Communities Following Invasive Species Removal
Authors: Fiedler Anna K. , Landis Douglas A. , Arduser Michael
Published: September 2011

Ecological restoration is increasingly used to reverse degradation of rare ecosystems and maintain biological diversity. Pollinator communities are critical to maintenance of plant diversity and, in light of recent pollinator loss, we tested whether removal of invasive glossy buckthorn (Frangula alnus L.) from portions of a prairie fen wetland altered plant and pollinator communities. We compared herbaceous plant, bee, and butterfly abundance, diversity, and species composition in buckthorn invaded, buckthorn removal, and uninvaded reference plots. Following restoration, we found striking differences in plant and pollinator abundance and species composition between restored, unrestored, and reference plots. Within 2 years of F. alnus removal, plant species diversity and composition in restored plots were significantly different than invaded plots, but also remained significantly lower than reference plots. In contrast, in the first growing season following restoration, bee and butterfly abundance, diversity, and composition were similar in restored and reference plots and distinct from invaded plots. Our findings indicate that a diverse community of mobile generalist pollinators rapidly re‐colonizes restored areas of prairie fen, while the plant community may take longer to fully recover. This work implies that, in areas with intact pollinator metapopulations, restoration efforts will likely prevent further loss of mobile generalist pollinators and maintain pollination services. On the other hand, targeted restoration efforts will likely be required to restore populations of rare plants and specialist pollinators for which local and regional species pools may be lacking.
How Does Restoration of Native Canopy Affect Understory Vegetation Composition? Evidence from Riparian Communities of the Hunter Valley Australia
Authors: Harris Carla J. , Leishman Michelle R. , Fryirs Kirstie , Kyle Garreth
Published: September 2011

Restoration of native vegetation often focuses on the canopy layer species, with the assumption that regeneration of the understory elements will occur as a consequence. The goal of this study was to assess the influence of canopy restoration on the composition and abundance of understory plant species assemblages along riparian margins in the Hunter Valley, NSW, Australia. We compared the floristic composition (richness, abundance, and diversity) of understory species between nonrevegetated (open) and canopy revegetated plots across five sites. A number of other factors that may also influence understory vegetation, including soil nutrients, proximity to main channel, and light availability, were also measured. We found that sites where the canopy had been restored had lower exotic species richness and abundance, as well as higher native species cover, but not native species richness, compared with open sites. Multivariate analysis of plots based on plant community composition showed that revegetated sites were associated with lower total species diversity, light availability, and exotic cover. This study has found that the restoration of the canopy layer does result in lower exotic species richness and cover, and higher native species cover and diversity in the understory, a desirable restoration outcome. Our results provide evidence that restoration of native canopy species may facilitate restoration of native understory species; however, other interventions to increase native species richness of the understory should also be considered as part of management practice.
Measurement of Organ Structure and Function Enhances Understanding of the Physiological Basis of Frailty: The Cardiovascular Health Study
Authors: Sanders Jason L. , Boudreau Robert M. , Fried Linda P. , Walston Jeremy D. , Harris Tamara B. , Newman Anne B.
Published: September 2011

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether disease burden is associated with frailty independent of diagnosed chronic disease and whether physiological measurements provide greater understanding of the etiology of frailty.

DESIGN: Cross‐sectional.

SETTING: Community.

PARTICIPANTS: Two thousand four hundred thirty‐seven participants in the Cardiovascular Health Study, 1992/93 examination (mean age 74.8±4.8, 43.4% male, 95.8% white).

MEASUREMENTS: Disease burden and frailty were tabulated using 10‐point scales (0=healthy, 10=unhealthy). Disease burden was the sum of measurements characterizing the vasculature, brain, kidneys, lungs, and glucose metabolism. Frailty was assessed using the frailty index reported by Fried. Multivariate linear models were used to determine the association between disease burden (predictor) and frailty (outcome).

RESULTS: Unadjusted, 1‐point‐higher disease burden was associated with a 0.28‐point‐higher frailty score (P<.001). White matter grade, forced vital capacity, and cystatin‐C were particularly strongly and significantly associated with frailty. Disease burden attenuated the association between frailty and age by 29%, and disease burden and age had similar associations with frailty. Disease burden attenuated the association between frailty and fibrinogen, Factor VIII, and C‐reactive protein by 32%, 56%, and 83%, respectively. Frailty was associated with diagnosed depression, stroke, cognitive impairment, arthritis, and pulmonary disease but not coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, or kidney disease in the presence of a summary of disease burden. In the adjusted model, disease burden remained significantly associated with frailty (β=0.11, P<.001).

CONCLUSION: Disease burden was independently and significantly associated with frailty. These results emphasize that typically unrecognized physiological changes may contribute significantly to frailty.
Trypanosoma cruzi: seroprevalence detected in the blood bank of the Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Mexico City, in the period 2004 through 2009
Authors: Escamilla‐Guerrero Guillermo , Martínez‐Gordillo Mario Noé , Riverón‐Negrete Leticia , Aguilar‐Escobar Dinora Virginia , Bravo‐Lindoro Amalia , Cob‐Sosa Carlos , Ponce‐Macotela Martha
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND: The second most common mode of Trypanosoma cruzi or Chagas disease transmission is via therapeutic blood transfusion. In Mexico, control of T. cruzi is still in its initial phase; in fact, there are only 14 studies published covering 10 states on T. cruzi seroprevalence in donated blood in Mexico. Here we present the results of 5 years of trypanosomiasis screening in the blood bank of the Instituto Nacional de Pediatría.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Samples from all blood donated in the period from 2004 to 2009 were analyzed. We screened for T. cruzi using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique. Seropositive samples were then processed using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect a nuclear gene segment.

RESULTS: A total of 37,333 samples were analyzed and a 0.17% (64 samples) T. cruzi seroprevalence was found. Donors were mostly from Mexico State and Mexico City, which is considered nonendemic for T. cruzi area. Of 64 seropositive samples, only two tested positive by PCR (3.12%), which amplified a 189‐bp product from nuclear gene from the parasite.

CONCLUSION: Although the seroprevalence of T. cruzi infection was low, this surveillance program prevented the infection of more than 100 children because each unit of blood provides 2.6 to 3.5 blood products. The majority of the donors were from Mexico State and Mexico City, which is a nonendemic area. The serodetection of T. cruzi in this region is evidence that is necessary to increase our understanding of its distribution in the Mexico City and surrounding places.
Guidelines for the Naming of Genes, Gene Products, and Mutants in the Opportunistic Protists
Authors: LIMPER ANDREW H. , WEISS LOUIS M.
Published: September 2011

ABSTRACT. The opportunistic protists encompass a wide diversity of organisms including Pneumocystis, Toxoplasma, cryptosporidia, microsporidia, and related genera. Recent advances in the molecular biology and cellular biochemistry of these organisms have led to the identification of an ever growing numbers of key genes and their cognate proteins. Until now, these molecules have not been designated using any consistent nomenclature system, leading to considerable confusion. The participants of the 11th International Workshop on Opportunistic Protists met on August 3, 2010 to reach consensus of a nomenclature system for genes, gene products, and mutants in the opportunistic protists. The following summary reports the consensus agreement to move toward a unified nomenclature system for these organisms. The system is adapted from that used for Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
Nb‐Doped 0.9BaTiO3–0.1(Bi0.5Na0.5)TiO3 Ceramics with Stable Dielectric Properties at High Temperature
Authors: Yao Guofeng , Wang Xiaohui , Wu Yunyi , Li Longtu
Published: September 2011

Nb‐doped 0.9BaTiO3–0.1Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3 (0.9BT–0.1BNT) ceramics were prepared by conventional solid‐state method. The dielectric and the structural properties were investigated. It was found that the temperature–capacitance characteristics greatly depended on Nb2O5 content. With the addition of 2.0 mol% Nb2O5, 0.9BT–0.1BNT ceramic sample could satisfy the EIA X9R specification. This material was promising for high‐temperature MLCC application. Microstructure element distribution was studied using TEM and EDS. The Bi and Na were almost homogeneously distributed except grain‐boundary segregation of Bi. The Nb exhibited a nonuniform distribution from the grain boundary to the interior, showing the simultaneous presence of Nb‐rich and Nb‐poor regions. Such microheterogeneity gave rise to the temperature stability of permittivity. The solution‐precipitation mechanism was introduced to elucidate the evolution of microstructures. Degradation and recovery of insulation resistance were observed under a dc bias at 200°C, which was attributed to the electromigration and diffusion of Na+.