bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deficiency of the Leukotriene B4 Receptor, BLT-1, Protects against Systemic Insulin Resistance in Diet-Induced Obesity
Authors: Spite Matthew , Hellmann Jason , Tang Yunan , Mathis Steven P. , Kosuri Madhavi , Bhatnagar Aruni , Jala Venkatakrishna R. , Haribabu Bodduluri
Published: July 2011

Chronic inflammation is an underlying factor linking obesity with insulin resistance. Diet-induced obesity promotes an increase in circulating levels of inflammatory monocytes and their infiltration into expanding adipose tissue. Nevertheless, the endogenous pathways that trigger and sustain chronic low-grade inflammation in obesity are incompletely understood. In this study, we report that a high-fat diet selectively increases the circulating levels of CD11b+ monocytes in wild-type mice that express leukotriene B4 receptor, BLT-1, and that this increase is abolished in BLT-1–null mice. The accumulation of classically activated (M1) adipose tissue macrophages (ATMs) and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines (i.e., IL-6 and Ccl2) was largely blunted in adipose tissue of obese BLT-1−/− mice, whereas the ratio of alternatively activated (M2) ATMs to M1 ATMs was increased. Obese BLT-1−/− mice were protected from systemic glucose and insulin intolerance and this was associated with a decrease in inflammation in adipose tissue and liver and a decrease in hepatic triglyceride accumulation. Deletion of BLT-1 prevented high fat-induced loss of insulin signaling in liver and skeletal muscle. These observations elucidate a novel role of chemoattractant receptor, BLT-1, in promoting monocyte trafficking to adipose tissue and promoting chronic inflammation in obesity and could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets for treating insulin resistance in obesity.
A Locally Compact Non Divisible Abelian Group Whose Character Group Is Torsion Free and Divisible
Authors: Tausk Daniel V.
Published: July 2011

It was claimed by Halmos in 1944 that if G is a Hausdorff locally compact topological abelian group and if the character group of G is torsion free, then G is divisible. We prove that such a claim is false by presenting a family of counterexamples. While other counterexamples are known, we also present a family of stronger counterexamples, showing that even if one assumes that the character group of G is both torsion free and divisible, it does not follow that G is divisible.
An inexpensive instrument for measuring wave exposure and water velocity
Authors: Figurski Jared D. , Malone Dan , Lacy Jessica R. , Denny Mark
Published: July 2011

Ocean waves drive a wide variety of nearshore physical processes, structuring entire ecosystems through their direct and indirect effects on the settlement, behavior, and survivorship of marine organisms. However, wave exposure remains difficult and expensive to measure. Here, we report on an inexpensive and easily constructed instrument for measuring wave‐induced water velocities. The underwater relative swell kinetics instrument (URSKI) is a subsurface float tethered by a short (<1 m) line to the seafloor. Contained within the float is an accelerometer that records the tilt of the float in response to passing waves. During two field trials totaling 358 h, we confirmed the accuracy and precision of URSKI measurements through comparison to velocities measured by an in situ acoustic Doppler velocimeter and those predicted by a standard swell model, and we evaluated how the dimensions of the devices, its buoyancy, and sampling frequency can be modified for use in a variety of environments.
Grain size normalization: a case for post extraction normalization and inclusion of selective extraction procedures
Authors: Akhurst D.J. , Clark M.W. , Reichelt‐Brushett A. , Jones G.B.
Published: July 2011

The spatial mapping of trace metal and/or nutrient elemental concentrations in surface is often aided by normalization approaches that allow comparison of texturally, geochemically, and mineralogically dissimilar sites. Frequently, this is a grain‐size normalization at < 62.5 µm before chemical analysis. However, material that is > 62.5 µm (generally geochemically inert) may have fine‐grained coatings that bind components of interest and/or may consist of aggregates of fine‐grained sediment. The misplacement of these essential components within the coarse fraction of size‐normalized sediments may skew data and subsequent geochemical interpretations, especially when these components make up a substantial proportion of the sediment metal and/or nutrient binding capacity. In this article, sedimentary contaminant data were normalized using size normalization (wet sieving < 62.5 µm) and a post‐extraction normalization (PEN). PEN is a size‐based normalization procedure devised to minimize the misplacement of fine‐grained coatings/aggregates by applying a size and mineralogical normalization to inert digestion residuals, post‐chemical extraction. The data show that PEN provides a more ecologically and diagenetically interpretable representation of partitioning of elements between sediments in a freshwater reservoir. In addition, PEN samples are more rapidly collected, and consequently, PEN provides a cheaper alternative to traditional size normalization. In addition, application of the PEN allows the collection of data not only relevant to ecological health, but also relevant sedimentary diagenetic mobility data using a single sediment sample.
A mesocosm tool to optically study phytoplankton dynamics
Authors: Peperzak L. , Timmermans K. R. , Wernand M. R. , Oosterhuis S. , van der Woerd H. J.
Published: July 2011

The accuracy of remote sensing algorithms for phytoplankton biomass and physiology is difficult to test under natural conditions due to rapid changes in physical and biological forcings and the practical inability to manipulate nutrient conditions and phytoplankton composition in the sea. Therefore, an indoor mesocosm was designed to examine the optical properties of phytoplankton under controlled and manipulated conditions of irradiance, temperature, turbulence, and nutrient availability. Equipped with hyperspectral radiometers and bottom irradiance meters, it is shown that under semi‐natural environmental conditions biogeochemically relevant species as Emiliania huxleyi and Phaeocystis globosa can be grown with good precision (± 20%) between duplicate mesocosms and between duplicate sensors (<5% deviation). The accuracy of chlorophyll estimates by absorption, using an Integrating Cavity Absorption Meter, and fluorescence using water‐leaving radiance was 74% to 80%, respectively, as it was negatively influenced by changes in phytoplankton physiology. Biomass detection was limitedto 1 to 2 µg chlorophyll/L with an apparent linearity to 50 µg chlorophyll/L. Estimates of the quantum efficiency of fluorescence (φ ≈ 0.01) were comparable to real‐world estimates derived from satellite observations. It is concluded that the mesocosms adequately simulate natural conditions with sufficient accuracy and precision and that they offer an important tool in validating assumptions and hypotheses underlying remote sensing algorithms and models.
A method for measuring methane oxidation rates using lowlevels of 14C‐labeled methane and accelerator mass spectrometry
Authors: Pack Mary A. , Heintz Monica B. , Reeburgh William S. , Trumbore Susan E. , Valentine David L. , Xu Xiaomei , Druffel Ellen R. M.
Published: July 2011

We report a new method for methane oxidation rate measurements that uses 103–105 times less 14C‐CH4 than existing measurements by taking advantage of the high sensitivity of accelerator mass spectrometry. Methane oxidation in the marine environment is a microbial process of global importance because it prevents methane released from underlying reservoirs from reaching the ocean and atmosphere. Rate measurements provide a crucial tool for assessing the efficacy of this process across a range of environments, but the current methods use high amounts of radioactive elements (3H‐ or 14C‐CH4), tend to increase methane concentrations in a sample markedly over in situ levels, and are limited by strict health and safety regulations. The low‐level method presented here uses levels of 14C‐CH4 that are below transportation regulations, produce samples that do not require treatment as radioactive waste, and allow for tracer level rate measurements in low methane environments. Moreover, the low‐level method lays the analytical foundation for a below‐regulation rate measurement that could be used broadly and in‐situ. Parallel rate measurements with the low‐level 14C‐CH4 and existing 3H‐CH4 methods are generally consistent with a correlation coefficient of 0.77. However, the low‐level method in most cases yields slower rates than the 3H method possibly due to temperature, priming, and detection limit effects.
A robust approach for the determination of dimethylsulfoxide in sea ice
Authors: Brabant Frédéric , El Amri Saïda , Tison Jean‐Louis
Published: July 2011

The melting of sea ice samples is acknowledged to be deleterious to sympagic microorganisms due to the hypo‐osmotic shock undergone by the organism when released from high salinity brine inclusions into the sample melt. Because melting of sea ice samples was also anticipated to modify the initial proportions of dimethylsulfide (DMS), dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), three sample treatments were tested on an Antarctic sea ice sample, with the aim of identifying an efficient procedure that could routinely be applied for the determination of DMSO in sea ice. Herein, it was demonstrated that purging the melted sample before the determination of DMSO in the sample via an enzyme‐linked method produced reliable DMSO results (215.8 ± 8.9 nmol L−1, precision 4.1%). However, analysis revealed that the unintentional enzymatic cleavage of DMSP through the subsequent production of interfering DMS during melting caused an overestimation of the DMSO content in the sample by more than 59% and concurrently an underestimation of the DMSP content by approximately 9%. The sequential determination of DMSP after the DMSO determination by the enzyme‐linked method was shown to be problematic. To circumvent all of these issues, we recommend an analytical procedure for the sequential determination of DMS, DMSP, and DMSO in sea ice. Ultimately, the first depth profile of DMSO at high resolution in sea ice was produced. The depth‐integrated DMSO concentration in sea ice was determined to be 718 µmol m−2, which indicated that Antarctic sea ice is a potentially important source of DMSO for the Southern Ocean.
Comparison of three different methods for assessing in situ friction velocity: A case study from Loch Etive, Scotland
Authors: Inoue Tetsunori , Glud Ronnie N. , Stahl Henrik , Hume Andrew
Published: July 2011

Three approaches, Eddy Correlation (EC), Turbulent Kinetic Energy (TKE), and Inertial Dissipation (ID) methods, were compared to evaluate their potential for estimation of friction velocity in a Scottish sea loch. As an independent assessment parameter, we used simultaneous O2 recordings of the diffusive boundary layer (DBL) that were compared with theoretical distribution as derived from the respective friction velocity estimates. Friction velocities were calculated based on the three approaches using continuously measured turbulent properties, and values estimated by the TKE method were significantly higher than values of the two other approaches. Time series of calculated friction velocity were subsequently employed as input parameters for nonsteady calculations of the O2 distribution within the DBL. The friction velocity is a controlling factor for the eddy diffusivity distribution immediately above the sediment surface and for the DBL thickness, and friction velocity values of the TKE method derived significantly higher theoretical O2 concentration while the EC and the ID approach provided results that were not significantly different. Overall differences from measured O2 concentration in the DBL were 0.2% for the EC method, 9.8% for the TKE method, and 0.7% for the ID method. The results reveal that the EC method appear to be the best approach for estimating friction velocities though not significantly different from the ID method, whereas the TKE method was unreliable at the ~70 m deep, relatively calm study site. This information is important for future research in similar sounds, fjords, and sea‐lochs.
Differences in Pop Levels between Conventional and Omega-3 Fatty Acid-Enriched Milk and Dairy Products
Authors: Guerranti Cristiana , Focardi Silvano Ettore
Published: July 2011

Conventional and omega-3 fatty acid-enriched milk and cheese were analyzed for persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Omega-3-enriched products are usually supplemented with fish oil which is potentially contaminated. All classes of the considered POPs (PCBs, DDT, HCB, PBDEs, and PCDD/Fs) were found in the samples, with average concentrations higher in omega-3-enriched products than in conventional ones. For PCBs, DDT, and HCB, differences were statistically significant and, therefore, cannot be ascribed to normal variability. With regard to all classes of compounds, the highest levels in individual samples were always found in omega-3 products, in line with the hypothesis that these foods are potentially more contaminated than conventional ones.
Patients' Participation as It Appears in the Nursing Documentation, When Care Is Ruled by Standardized Care Plans
Authors: Andreae Christina , Ekstedt Mirjam , Snellman Ingrid
Published: July 2011

This study aimed to describe inpatients with myocardial infarction and their participation in care as documented in the nursing records when standardized care plans are used in care. The use of standardized care plans not only has increased the quality of medical treatment but has also overlooked patients' opportunities to participate in their own care. There is a lack of knowledge about how standardized care plans influence patients' participation in nursing care. Data were collected from thirteen patients' records with diagnoses of myocardial infarction. Participation in the decision-making process and participation associated with “sharing with others” were searched for in the analysis. The analytical process was guided by content analysis. The findings were grouped into two categories: patients' intermediary participation and patients' active participation. The main results indicated that patients' intermediary participation depended on healthcare professionals' power to rule the nursing care situation.
Evaluating Smoking Cessation Interventions and Cessation Rates in Cancer Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nayan Smriti , Gupta Michael K. , Sommer Doron D.
Published: July 2011

Background. Tobacco smoking cessation interventions in the oncology population are an important part of comprehensive treatment plan. Objectives. To evaluate through a systematic review smoking cessation interventions and cessation rates in cancer patients. Search Strategy. The literature was searched using Medline, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library (inception to November 2010) by three independent review authors. Selection Criteria. Studies were included if tobacco smoking cessation interventions were evaluated and patients were randomized to usual care or an intervention. The primary outcome measure was cessation rates. Data Collection and Analysis. Two authors extracted data independently for each paper, with disagreements resolved by consensus. Main Results. The systematic review found eight RCTs investigating smoking cessation interventions in the oncology patient population. Pooled relative risks were calculated from two groups of RCTs of smoking cessation interventions based on followup duration. In both groups, the pooled relative risk did not suggest a statistically significant improvement in tobacco cessation compared to usual care. Conclusions. Our review demonstrates that recent interventions in the last decade which are a combination of non-pharmacological and pharmacological approaches yield a statistically significant improvement in smoking cessation rates compared to usual care.
Screening for Prostate Cancer by Digital Rectal Examination and PSA Determination in Senegal
Authors: Niang Lamine , Kouka Charles N. , Jalloh Mohamed , Gueye Sérigne M.
Published: July 2011

Objectives. The goal of our study was to investigate the prevalence of prostate cancer in an unselected population of Senegalese men. Patients and Methods. We conducted the study over two years (2008 and 2009) on an unselected population of 572 Senegalese men, aged 35 and older. The following parameters have been investigated: the subject's age, the presence or absence of urination disorders, the family's history of prostate cancer or prostate surgery, the aspects of the prostate on digital rectal examination (DRE), the total PSA level, and the outcomes of the prostate biopsies. Data entry was performed with Epi Info 6 software and was analyzed and recorded using Excel software. We performed mean and frequency calculations. Results. The mean age of our patients was 65.5 years, with extremes of 38 and 93 years. Age groups from 50 to 59 and from 60 to 69 were the most represented. DRE was normal in the age group from 35 to 39, and only one patient in the age group from 40 to 49 had a prostate nodule. PSA level was greater than or equal to 4 ng/mL in 66 cases. A total of 5.4% patients had a PSA level greater than or equal to 10 ng/mL. Only two patients in the age group from 40 to 49 had a PSA level greater than 4 ng/mL. Of the 72 biopsies we performed, prostatic adenocarcinoma was found in 30.6% of the cases. It is the only type of prostate cancer we found in our series. The cases of prostate cancer were mostly observed in the age groups from 60 to 69 and from 70 to 79. No cases were detected for ages younger than 50. DRE gave indications of possible adenocarcinoma in 27.30% cases. Its sensitivity was 27%, while its positive predictive value was estimated at 35%. Of all positive biopsies, 4.5% had a PSA level between 0 and 3.9 ng/mL. In this case, the sensitivity of PSA was 95.5%, and the positive predictive value was 31.8%. High-grade intraepithelial neoplasiae were observed in 21 cases. Conclusion. Prostate cancer is frequent in Senegal, and screening remains the best way for early diagnosis.
Dutch hydrogen economy: evolution of optimal supply infrastructure and evaluation of key influencing elements
Authors: Murthy Konda N.V.S.N. , Shah Nilay , Brandon Nigel P.
Published: July 2011

Possible pathways for the evolution of hydrogen (H2) supply infrastructure in The Netherlands are explored and then, from a broader perspective, important factors that can play pivotal role in the evolution, and success, of Dutch H2 economy are analysed. First, an optimization framework (based on comprehensive spatio‐temporal techno‐economic analysis) is used to map out optimal transition pathways if H2 were to be introduced in the Dutch transport sector. It is observed that a centralized supply network (with production facilities based on the Rotterdam area and H2 is trucked to other regions) will be necessary, in the base‐case scenario with 25% market penetration of fuel cell vehicles by 2050. Second, a critical quantitative and qualitative assessment is carried out to understand when do (or can) other production technologies become economically competitive with steam methane reforming (SMR), to produce H2. For instance, in the case of coal gasification (CG), for a medium size plant (∼150 tpd), coal ($ /MMBtu) needs to be about 7$ cheaper than natural gas ($ /MMBtu) for CG, at its current state of the technology, to be economically competitive with SMR. Third, since the evolution and eventually the success of fossil‐based H2 economy, especially during the transition period, may partly depend on the prospects for the carbon capture and storage (CCS), a qualitative assessment of the Dutch CCS potential and current activities is carried out. (Disclaimer: Results/comments are the authors' and do not necessarily represent the views of the associated organizations/institutions) Copyright © 2011 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Control of Surface Wettability and Photomicropatterning with a Polymorphic Diarylethene Crystal upon Photoirradiation
Authors: Kitagawa Daichi , Yamashita Itsuka , Kobatake Seiya
Published: July 2011

A photochromic diarylethene crystal of 1,2‐bis(2‐methyl‐6‐nitro‐1‐benzothiophen‐3‐yl)perfluorocyclopentene (1 a) was found to undergo a thermodynamic phase transition at 180 °C to form a needle‐like crystal, designated as 1 a‐γ. The phase transition involves melting of the initial α‐crystal and growth of the γ‐crystal. The phase transition temperature decreased with the presence of the closed‐ring isomer (1 b) in the crystal because of the decrease in the melting temperature. Upon irradiation with ultraviolet (UV) light, compound 1 a in the α‐crystal was converted into 1 b to an extent of 20 %. Consequently, the α‐crystal containing 20 % of 1 b underwent the phase transition accompanied by melting of the crystal and growth of the γ‐crystal even at 170 °C. Photomicropatterning by the phase transition upon irradiation with UV light using a photomask, followed by heating at 170 °C, was successfully accomplished with a resolution in the microcrystalline pattern of about 20 μm. The contact angle with water on the γ‐microcrystalline phase on a glass substrate was larger than that on the α‐microcrystalline phase by 20°. This can be ascribed to a difference in the roughness of the surface. Furthermore, the γ‐microcrystal was also found to be formed upon heating an amorphous film of 1 a in poly(methyl methacrylate) for 2 min at 130 °C. The crystallized area exhibited a higher water contact angle than the amorphous area. Upon irradiation of the amorphous film with UV light, such crystallization did not take place because of the impurity effect of 1 b in 1 a. Photomicropatterning by the crystallization in the polymer showed a pattern with a higher resolution of about 4 μm, which was much better than that of the neat crystal. This photopatterning process represents a useful tool for controlling the surface wettability in relevant applications.
Development and validation of a reversed‐phase HPLC method for determination of lesatropane and enantiomeric impurity
Authors: Yang Li‐Min , Xie Yi‐Fan , Gu Zhou‐Hui , Wang Ai‐Ling , Chen Hong‐Zhuan , Lu Yang
Published: July 2011

Lesatropane is a novel muscarinic receptor agonist and is currently being under preclinical development in China as a single enantiomer drug for the treatment of primary glaucoma. A reversed‐phase chiral HPLC method for determination of lesatropane and enantiomeric impurity was developed. Enantiomeric separation of lesatropane from its enantiomer (desatropane) was achieved in normal‐phase mode with Chiralpak AD‐H and in reversed‐phase mode with Chiralpak AS‐RH. The conditions using a Chiralpak AS‐RH column and mobile phase of K2HPO4–KH2PO4 (pH 7.0; 0.02 M)–acetonitrile (69:31, v/v) at a flow rate of 0.5 ml/min have been fully validated with satisfactory specificity, linearity, accuracy, and precision. The method was found to be suitable for the simultaneous quantitation of lesatropane and enantiomeric impurity desatropane. Chirality, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Advancing understanding of runoff and sediment transfers in agricultural catchments through simultaneous observations across scales
Authors: Deasy C. , Baxendale S.A. , Heathwaite A.L. , Ridall G. , Hodgkinson R. , Brazier R.E.
Published: July 2011

Our understanding of the effect of scale on runoff and sediment transfers within catchments is currently limited by a lack of available data. A multi‐scale dataset of 17 rainfall events collected simultaneously at four spatial scales within a small agricultural catchment in 2005–2006 is presented. Analysis using exploratory techniques and a two‐step, zero‐inflated lognormal mixed‐effects regression model, has demonstrated that event responses, and event response characteristics representing runoff and sediment peaks and area‐normalized yields, are scale dependent, and hence cannot be transferred directly between scales. Runoff and sediment yields increase as scale increases, and it is proposed that this effect, which differs from that observed in the few other studies of scale effects undertaken, is due to increasing connectivity within the catchment, and the dominance of preferential flow pathways including through macropores and field drains. The processes contributing to scale dependence in the data, and the possibility that certain processes dominate at particular scales, are discussed. The data presented here help to improve our spatial understanding of runoff and sediment transport in small agricultural catchments, and provide examples of the type of spatial dataset and the type of analysis that are essential if we are to develop models which are able to predict runoff and soil erosion accurately, and allow us to manage runoff and sediment transport effectively across scales. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Theta and gamma coherence across the septotemporal axis during distinct behavioral states
Authors: Penley Stephanie C. , Hinman James R. , Sabolek Helen R. , Escabí Monty A. , Markus Etan J. , Chrobak James J.
Published: July 2011

Theta (4–12 Hz) and gamma (40–100 Hz) field potentials represent the interaction of synchronized synaptic input onto distinct neuronal populations within the hippocampal formation. Theta is quite prominent during exploratory activity, locomotion, and REM sleep. Although it is generally acknowledged that theta is coherent throughout most of the hippocampus, there is significant variability in theta, as well as gamma, coherence across lamina at any particular septotemporal level of the hippocampus. Larger differences in theta coherence are observed across the septotemporal (long) axis. We have reported that during REM sleep there is a decrease in theta coherence across the long axis that varies with the topography of CA3/mossy cell input rather than the topography of the prominent entorhinal input. On the basis of differences in the rat's behavior as well as the activity of neuromodulatory inputs (e.g., noradrenergic and serotonergic), we hypothesized that theta coherence across the long axis would be greater during locomotion than REM sleep and exhibit a pattern more consistent with the topography of entorhinal inputs. We examined theta and gamma coherence indices at different septotemporal and laminar sites during distinct theta states: locomotion during maze running, REM sleep, following acute treatment with a θ‐inducing cholinomimetic (physostigmine) and for comparison during slow‐wave sleep. The results demonstrate a generally consistent pattern of theta and gamma coherence across the septotemporal axis of the hippocampus that is quite indifferent to sensory input and overt behavior. These results are discussed with regards to the neurobiological mechanisms that generate theta and gamma and the growing body of evidence linking theta and gamma indices to memory and other cognitive functions. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lipopolysaccharide administration in vivo induces differential expression of cAMP‐specific phosphodiesterase 4B mRNA splice variants in the mouse brain
Authors: Johansson Emily M. , Sanabra Cristina , Cortés Roser , Vilaró M. Teresa , Mengod Guadalupe
Published: July 2011

Many inflammatory processes involve cAMP. Pharmacological manipulation of cAMP levels using specific phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors provokes an antiinflammatory response. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the pattern and levels of expression of mRNAs coding for the cAMP‐specific PDE4 family and subfamilies in mouse brain during the immediate acute immune response provoked by an intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS). PDE4B, and furthermore the splice variants PDE4B2 and PDE4B3, were the only mRNAs that showed altered expression. Whereas PDE4B2 presented increased expression at both 3 and 8 hr postinjection, PDE4B3 mRNA showed decreased expression that reached a minimum 8 hr postinjection. PDE4B2 mRNA upregulation was observed mainly in endothelial and macrophage/neutrophil cell populations in the leptomeninges, and the downregulation of PDE4B3 was observed mainly in oligodendrocytes throughout the brain. Our results clearly illustrate the distinctive anatomical distribution and cellular localization of the PDE4Bs during neuroinflammation and emphasize the importance of PDE4B splice‐variant‐specific inhibitors as therapeutic tools. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Do the motor manifestations of parkinson disease alter motor axon excitability?
Authors: Jankelowitz Stacey K. , Burke David
Published: July 2011

Background: Axonal excitability is altered in common medical conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injury. Given the motor neuron changes in the presence of rigidity and tremor in Parkinson disease, we examine whether there are also changes in motor axon excitability. Methods: Axonal excitability studies were performed in 15 Parkinson subjects and 12 age‐matched control subjects. Results: There was no significant difference in excitability indices between Parkinson subjects and control subjects. Conclusions: It is unlikely that the lack of change in the excitability indices reflects a balance between the effects of bradykinesia (“underactivity”) and the effects of rigidity and tremor (“overactivity”) on the motoneuron and its axon. It is more likely that plastic changes in motoneuron properties do not occur symmetrically with decreases and increases in activity, being more profound when activity levels are interrupted and less obvious when they are enhanced. Muscle Nerve 45: 43–47, 2012
Targeting of Kv7.5 (KCNQ5)/KCNE channels to surface microdomains of cell membranes
Authors: Roura‐Ferrer Meritxell , Solé Laura , Oliveras Anna , Villarroel Alvaro , Comes Núria , Felipe Antonio
Published: July 2011

Background: Kv7.5 (KCNQ5) channels conduct M‐type potassium currents in the brain, are expressed in skeletal muscle, and contribute to vascular muscle tone. Methods: We coexpressed Kv7.5 and KCNE1–3 peptides in HEK293 cells and then analyzed their association using electrophysiology and co‐immunoprecipitation, assessed localization using confocal microscopy, examined targeting of the oligomeric channels to cholesterol‐rich membrane surface microdomains using lipid raft isolation, and evaluated their membrane dynamics using fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP). Results: Kv7.5 forms oligomeric channels specifically with KCNE1 and KCNE3. The expression of Kv7.5 targeted to cholesterol‐rich membrane surface microdomains was very low. Oligomeric Kv7.5/KCNE1 and Kv7.5/KCNE3 channels did not localize to lipid rafts. However, Kv7.5 association impaired KCNE3 expression in lipid raft microdomains. Conclusions: Our results indicate that Kv7.5 contributes to the spatial regulation of KCNE3. This new scenario could greatly assist in determining the physiological relevance of putative KCNE3 interactions in nerve and muscle. Muscle Nerve 45: 48–54, 2012
Age‐related changes in dystrophin–glycoprotein complex and in utrophin are not correlated with intrinsic laryngeal muscles protection in mdx mice
Authors: Ferretti Renato , Pertille Adriana , Neto Humberto Santo , Marques Maria Julia
Published: July 2011

In this study we investigate whether dystrophic intrinsic laryngeal muscles (ILM) from aged mdx mice show alterations in dystrophin–glycoprotein complex (DGC) components.Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting analyses of beta‐sarcoglycan, beta‐dystroglycan, and utrophin showed that aged ILM had a similar pattern of changes in aged affected muscles (diaphragm and limb), suggesting that aging leads to changes in utrophin and DGC proteins in dystrophic ILM that cannot be correlated with their protection from dystrophic change. Muscle Nerve, 2011
Antiangiogenic treatment as a pre‐operative management of alveolar soft‐part sarcoma
Authors: Conde Nuria , Cruz Ofelia , Albert Asteria , Mora Jaume
Published: July 2011

Alveolar soft‐part sarcoma (ASPS) is a rare tumor. Cure is based solely on radical surgery. The general prognosis is poor. The tongue is an unusual site in adults, but not in children. Tumor removal can cause a severe impact on quality of life, even if reconstruction is possible. ASPS is a highly vascularized tumor and antiangiogenic therapy may have a role. We describe the use of the antiangiogenic combination bevacizumab and celecoxib in the preoperative management of a patient with an ASPS of the tongue. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 1071–1073. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rheological properties and crystal morphology of poly(ethylene oxide)/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Ratna Debdatta , Abraham Thomas
Published: July 2011

Poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO)/organoclay nanocomposites were prepared by a solution intercalation method. The crystallization behavior of the nanocomposites was investigated by a cross‐polarized optical microscopy (CPOM) fitted with a hot‐stage facility. A decrease in size and regularity were observed as a result of incorporation of clay into the PEO matrix. The dynamic viscoelastic behavior of PEO/organoclay nanocomposites was assessed using a strain‐controlled parallel plate rheometer. The effects of clay concentration on the rheological properties of the nanocomposites were extensively studied. A significant increase in the viscosity and storage modulus of the nanocomposites was found with increasing clay content. The reinforcing effect of the organoclay was determined by using a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) and compared with the theoretically calculated values. POLYM. COMPOS., © 2011 Society of Plastics Engineers.
Ammonolysis of morpholine‐2,5‐diones: participation of the primary amide group. Part 2
Authors: Arcelli Antonio , Bongini Alessandro , Porzi Gianni , Rinaldi Samuele
Published: July 2011

The ammonolysis of three morpholine‐2,5‐dione derivatives was investigated and the mechanism ascertained by kinetic studies and theoretical calculations. The kinetics, followed by high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis, evidenced the presence of two intermediates, which were isolated and characterized. The ammonolysis occurs with a complex mechanism involving two consecutive reactions followed by two parallel ones. The second step of the whole reaction involves an anchimeric assistance of the primary amide group. The pseudo‐first‐order rate constants were calculated by appropriate equations, which describe the single steps of the process. Computational density functional theory investigations of vicinal primary amide group participation were performed using a model compound, and the transition states were generated. The theoretical calculations evidenced the essential role exerted by ammonia, which acts as a proton transfer. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chromosomes 4 and 8 implicated in a genome wide SNP linkage scan of 762 prostate cancer families collected by the ICPCG
Authors: Lu Lingyi , Cancel‐Tassin Geraldine , Valeri Antoine , Cussenot Olivier , Lange Ethan M. , Cooney Kathleen A. , Farnham James M. , Camp Nicola J. , Cannon‐Albright Lisa A. , Tammela Teuvo L.J. , Schleutker Johanna , Hoegel Josef , Herkommer Kathleen , Maier Christiane , Vogel Walther , Wiklund Fredrik , Emanuelsson Monica , Grönberg Henrik , Wiley Kathleen E. , Isaacs Sarah D. , Walsh Patrick C. , Helfand Brian T. , Kan Donghui , Catalona William J. , Stanford Janet L. , FitzGerald Liesel M. , Johanneson Bo , Deutsch Kerry , McIntosh Laura , Ostrander Elaine A. , Thibodeau Stephen N. , McDonnell Shannon K. , Hebbring Scott , Schaid Daniel J. , Whittemore Alice S. , Oakley‐Girvan Ingrid , Hsieh Chih‐Lin , Powell Isaac , Bailey‐Wilson Joan E. , Cropp Cheryl D. , Simpson Claire , Carpten John D. , Seminara Daniela , Zheng S. Lilly , Xu Jianfen , Giles Graham G. , Severi Gianluca , Hopper John L. , English Dallas R. , Foulkes William D. , Maehle Lovise , Moller Pal , Badzioch Michael D. , Edwards Steve , Guy Michelle , Eeles Ros , Easton Douglas , Isaacs William B. ,   International Consortium for Prostate Cancer Genetics
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND

In spite of intensive efforts, understanding of the genetic aspects of familial prostate cancer (PC) remains largely incomplete. In a previous microsatellite‐based linkage scan of 1,233 PC families, we identified suggestive evidence for linkage (i.e., LOD ≥ 1.86) at 5q12, 15q11, 17q21, 22q12, and two loci on 8p, with additional regions implicated in subsets of families defined by age at diagnosis, disease aggressiveness, or number of affected members.

METHODS

In an attempt to replicate these findings and increase linkage resolution, we used the Illumina 6000 SNP linkage panel to perform a genome‐wide linkage scan of an independent set of 762 multiplex PC families, collected by 11 International Consortium for Prostate Cancer Genetics (ICPCG) groups.

RESULTS

Of the regions identified previously, modest evidence of replication was observed only on the short arm of chromosome 8, where HLOD scores of 1.63 and 3.60 were observed in the complete set of families and families with young average age at diagnosis, respectively. The most significant linkage signals found in the complete set of families were observed across a broad, 37 cM interval on 4q13–25, with LOD scores ranging from 2.02 to 2.62, increasing to 4.50 in families with older average age at diagnosis. In families with multiple cases presenting with more aggressive disease, LOD scores over 3.0 were observed at 8q24 in the vicinity of previously identified common PC risk variants, as well as MYC, an important gene in PC biology.

CONCLUSIONS

These results will be useful in prioritizing future susceptibility gene discovery efforts in this common cancer. Prostate 72:410–426, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
JNK Inhibition by SP600125 Attenuates trans‐10, cis‐12 Conjugated Linoleic Acid‐Mediated Regulation of Inflammatory and Lipogenic Gene Expression
Authors: Martinez Kristina , Kennedy Arion , McIntosh Michael K.
Published: July 2011

Supplementation with a mixture of trans‐10, cis‐12 (t10,c12) and cis‐9, trans‐11 (c9,t11) isomers of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), or t10,c12 CLA alone, reduces body weight and fat deposition in animals and some humans. However, these anti‐obesity actions of t10,c12 CLA are routinely accompanied by increased markers of inflammation and insulin resistance. Thus, we examined the extent to which blocking c‐Jun NH2‐terminal kinase (JNK) signaling using the JNK inhibitor SP600125 attenuated markers of inflammation and insulin resistance in primary human adipocytes treated with t10,c12 CLA. SP600125 attenuated t10,c12 CLA‐mediated phosphorylation of cJun and increased protein levels of activating transcription factor (ATF) 3, two downstream targets of JNK. SP600125 attenuated t10,c12 CLA‐mediated induction of inflammatory genes, including interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, IL‐1β, ATF3, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1, and cyclooxygenase‐2. Consistent with these data, SP600125 prevented t10,c12 CLA‐mediated secretion of IL‐8, IL‐6, and MCP‐1. SP600125 prevented t10,c12 CLA suppression of lipogenic genes including peroxisome proliferator activated receptor gamma, liver X receptor, sterol regulatory element binding protein, acetyl‐CoA carboxylase, and stearoyl‐CoA desaturase. Additionally, SP600125 blocked t10,c12 CLA‐mediated induction of suppressor of cytokine synthesis‐3 and suppression of adiponectin and insulin‐dependent glucose transporter 4 mRNA levels. Collectively, these data suggest that JNK signaling plays an important role in t10,c12 CLA‐mediated regulation of inflammatory and lipogenic gene expression in primary cultures of human adipocytes.
2‐Polyunsaturated Acyl Lysophosphatidylethanolamine Attenuates Inflammatory Response in Zymosan A‐Induced Peritonitis in Mice
Authors: Hung Nguyen Dang , Kim Mee Ree , Sok Dai‐Eun
Published: July 2011

In the present study, the anti‐inflammatory action of lysophosphatidylethanolamine (lysoPtdEtn), orally administered, in zymosan A‐induced peritonitis was examined. Oral administration of 2‐DHA‐lysoPtdEtn (ED50, ~111 μg/kg) or 2‐ARA‐lysoPtdEtn (ED50, 221 μg/kg) was found to inhibit the plasma leakage in mice treated with zymosan A. In support of this, 2‐polyunsaturated acyl‐lysoPtdEtn diminished the formation of LTC4, a lipid mediator responsible for vascular permeability. Next, 2‐DHA‐lysoPtdEtn (ED50, 110 μg/kg) or 2‐ARA‐lysoPtdEtn (ED50, 123 μg/kg) effectively inhibited the leukocyte extravasation into the peritoneum. Consistent with this, each polyunsaturated‐lysoPtdEtn diminished the formation of LTB4 and 12‐HETE, potent chemotactic factors. Additionally, the level of pro‐inflammatory mediator (IL‐1 β, IL‐6, TNF‐α or NO) was lowered remarkably in contrast to the augmentation of anti‐inflammatory interleukin IL‐10. Furthermore, 2‐(15‐HETE)‐lysoPtdEtn and 2‐(17‐HDHE)‐lysoPtdEtn, 15‐lipoxygenation product of 2‐ARA‐lysoPtdEtn and 2‐DHA‐lysoPtdEtn, respectively, were more potent than corresponding lysoPtdEtn, suggesting the action of 2‐acyl‐lysoPtdEtn might be expressed through 15‐lipoxygenation. In support of this, the formation of 15‐HETE and LXA4 was upgraded in accordance with an increasing dose of 2‐ARA‐lysoPtdEtn. Separately, anti‐inflammatory actions, 2‐polyunsaturated acyl‐lysoPtdEtns also drastically diminished leukocyte infiltration in a later phase of zymosan A‐induced peritonitis, indicating that these lipids also possess pro‐resolving activity. Taken together, it is suggested that polyunsaturated lysoPtdEtns and their lipoxygenation derivatives, could be classified as potent anti‐inflammatory lipids.
La chronique de la gynéco: Human papillomavirus et assistance médicale à la procréation: « Liaisons dangereuses » ou flirts sans lendemain ?
Authors: Seznec C.
Published: July 2011

Au début de ce XXIe siècle, il est nécessaire de s’interroger sur la coexistence des Human papillomavirus (HPV), virus quasi ubiquitaires, et des techniques d’assistance médicale à la procréation (AMP) non pas sous l’angle des résultats de l’AMP mais du risque potentiel encouru par les femmes de développer des lésions épithéliales du tractus génital suite à une transmission de certains de ces virus oncogènes lors des techniques d’AMP intraconjugale ou par tiers donneur.
Emergency physician point-of-care ultrasound in the diagnosis of sialolithiasis
Authors: Duprey K. , Bramante Robert M. , Cirilli Angela R. , Raio Christopher C.
Published: July 2011

Sialolithiasis is a relatively common diagnosis, with an uncertain etiology, that must be considered in patients presenting with a neck mass. Traditionally, invasive sialography was used to detect salivary stones. Currently, computed tomography has been the test of choice. Ultrasound presents an alternative, rapid, and safe imaging modality for the diagnosis of sialolithiasis. We report a case of sialolithiasis diagnosed by emergency physicians using point-of-care ultrasonography.
Effect of gonadal steroid hormones on formalin‐induced temporomandibular joint inflammation
Authors: Torres‐Chávez K.E. , Sanfins J.M. , Clemente‐Napimoga J.T. , Pelegrini‐Da‐Silva A. , Parada C.A. , Fischer L. , Tambeli C.H.
Published: July 2011

We have recently demonstrated that gonadal steroid hormones decrease formalin‐induced temporomandibular joint nociception in rats. Given that the attenuation of inflammation is a potential mechanism underlying this antinociceptive effect, we evaluated the effect of gonadal steroid hormones on formalin‐induced temporomandibular joint inflammation. Plasma extravasation, a major sign of acute inflammation, and neutrophil migration, an important event related to tissue injury, were evaluated. Formalin induced significantly lower temporomandibular joint plasma extravasation and neutrophil migration in proestrus females than in males and in diestrus females. Since estradiol serum level is high in proestrus females and low in diestrus females and in males, these findings suggest that the high physiological level of estradiol decreases temporomandibular joint inflammation. Estradiol but not progesterone administration in ovariectomized females significantly decreased formalin‐induced plasma extravasation and neutrophil migration, an effect that was blocked by the estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182780. Plasma extravasation and neutrophil migration were not affected by orchiectomy, but testosterone or estradiol administration in orchidectomized males significantly decreased them. The androgen receptor antagonist flutamide blocked the anti‐inflammatory effect of testosterone while ICI 182780 blocked that of estradiol in males. Previous intravenous administration of a nonspecific selectin inhibitor significantly decreased formalin‐induced temporomandibular joint nociception and neutrophil migration in males, revealing a potent and positive correlation between temporomandibular joint nociception and inflammation. Taken together, these findings demonstrate a pronounced anti‐inflammatory effect of estradiol and testosterone in the temporomandibular joint region and suggest that this effect may mediate, at least in part, the antinociceptive effect of these hormones.
Arsenic speciation in biomedical sciences: Recent advances and applications
Authors: Hsu Keng‐Chang , Sun Chien‐Che , Huang Yeou‐Lih
Published: July 2011

Speciation analysis of trace elements is an important issue in biomedical and toxicological sciences because different elemental species have different effects on health and the environment. For humans, arsenic (As) is a toxic element; the toxicity of As compounds is highly dependent on its chemical form. Although inorganic As compounds are human carcinogens, organic arsenicals are relatively less toxic. This article deals with recent advances and applications of methods for As speciation in biomedical sciences, with emphasis on the specimens commonly encountered in biomedical laboratories.
Transcriptional modulation induced by ionizing radiation: p53 remains a central player
Authors: Rashi‐Elkeles Sharon , Elkon Ran , Shavit Seagull , Lerenthal Yaniv , Linhart Chaim , Kupershtein Ana , Amariglio Ninette , Rechavi Gideon , Shamir Ron , Shiloh Yosef
Published: July 2011

The cellular response to DNA damage is vital for maintaining genomic stability and preventing undue cell death or cancer formation. The DNA damage response (DDR), most robustly mobilized by double‐strand breaks (DSBs), rapidly activates an extensive signaling network that affects numerous cellular systems, leading to cell survival or programmed cell death. A major component of the DDR is the widespread modulation of gene expression. We analyzed together six datasets that probed transcriptional responses to ionizing radiation (IR) – our novel experimental data and 5 published datasets – to elucidate the scope of this response and identify its gene targets. According to the mRNA expression profiles we recorded from 5 cancerous and non‐cancerous human cell lines after exposure to 5 Gy of IR, most of the responses were cell line‐specific. Computational analysis identified significant enrichment for p53 target genes and cell cycle‐related pathways among groups of up‐regulated and down‐regulated genes, respectively. Computational promoter analysis of the six datasets disclosed that a statistically significant number of the induced genes contained p53 binding site signatures. p53‐mediated regulation had previously been documented for subsets of these gene groups, making our lists a source of novel potential p53 targets. Real‐time qPCR and chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays validated the IR‐induced p53‐dependent induction and p53 binding to the respective promoters of 11 selected genes. Our results demonstrate the power of a combined computational and experimental approach to identify new transcriptional targets in the DNA damage response network.
Gesundheitsökonomischer Nutzen der betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung
Authors: Ahrens Dieter , Goldgruber Judith
Published: July 2011

Einleitung

Zur Beurteilung des wirtschaftlichen Nutzens der betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung ist zunächst eine Betrachtung der Wirksamkeit der gesundheitsbezogenen Interventionen im Setting Betrieb erforderlich. Dieser Beitrag fasst den derzeitigen Stand zur Wirksamkeit dieser Maßnahmen zusammen und gibt einen Ausblick auf mögliche wirtschaftliche Nutzenpotenziale der Betrieblichen Gesundheitsförderung.