bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival and Heat Resistance of Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli O157:H7 in Peanut Butter
Authors: He Yingshu , Guo Dongjing , Yang Jingyun , Tortorello Mary Lou , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2011

Significant differences (
P
< 0.05) were found between the survival rates of
Salmonella enterica
and
Escherichia coli
O157:H7 in peanut butter with different formulations and water activity. High carbohydrate content in peanut butter and low incubation temperature resulted in higher levels of bacterial survival during storage but lower levels of bacterial resistance to heat treatment.
Global Analysis of Serine-Threonine Protein Kinase Genes in Neurospora crassa
Authors: Park Gyungsoon , Servin Jacqueline A. , Turner Gloria E. , Altamirano Lorena , Colot Hildur V. , Collopy Patrick , Litvinkova Liubov , Li Liande , Jones Carol A. , Diala Fitz-Gerald , Dunlap Jay C. , Borkovich Katherine A.
Published: October 2011

Serine/threonine (S/T) protein kinases are crucial components of diverse signaling pathways in eukaryotes, including the model filamentous fungus
Neurospora crassa
. In order to assess the importance of S/T kinases to
Neurospora
biology, we embarked on a global analysis of 86 S/T kinase genes in
Neurospora
. We were able to isolate viable mutants for 77 of the 86 kinase genes. Of these, 57% exhibited at least one growth or developmental phenotype, with a relatively large fraction (40%) possessing a defect in more than one trait. S/T kinase knockouts were subjected to chemical screening using a panel of eight chemical treatments, with 25 mutants exhibiting sensitivity or resistance to at least one chemical. This brought the total percentage of S/T mutants with phenotypes in our study to 71%. Mutants lacking
apg-1
, an S/T kinase required for autophagy in other organisms, possessed the greatest number of phenotypes, with defects in asexual and sexual growth and development and in altered sensitivity to five chemical treatments. We showed that NCU02245/
stk-19
is required for chemotropic interactions between female and male cells during mating. Finally, we demonstrated allelism between the S/T kinase gene NCU00406 and
velvet
(
vel
), encoding a p21-activated protein kinase (PAK) gene important for asexual and sexual growth and development in
Neurospora
.
Functional Analysis of the Exported Type IV HSP40 Protein PfGECO in Plasmodium falciparum Gametocytes
Authors: Morahan Belinda J. , Strobel Carolyn , Hasan Uzma , Czesny Beata , Mantel Pierre-Yves , Marti Matthias , Eksi Saliha , Williamson Kim C.
Published: October 2011

During
Plasmodium falciparum
infection, host red blood cell (RBC) remodeling is required for the parasite's survival. Such modifications are mediated by the export of parasite proteins into the RBC that alter the architecture of the RBC membrane and enable cytoadherence. It is probable that some exported proteins also play a protective role against the host defense response. This may be of particular importance for the gametocyte stage of the life cycle that is responsible for malaria transmission, since the gametocyte remains in contact with blood as it proceeds through five morphological stages (I to V) during its 12-day maturation. Using microarray analysis, we identified several genes with encoded secretory or export sequences that were differentially expressed during early gametocytogenesis. One of these,
PfGECO
, encodes a predicted type IV heat shock protein 40 (HSP40) that we show is expressed in gametocyte stages I to IV and is exported to the RBC cytoplasm. HSPs are traditionally induced under stressful conditions to maintain homeostasis, but
PfGECO
expression was not increased upon heat shock, suggesting an alternate function. Targeted disruption of
PfGECO
indicated that the gene is not essential for gametocytogenesis
in vitro
, and quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) showed that there was no compensatory expression of the other type IV HSP40 genes. Although
P. falciparum
HSP40 members are implicated in the trafficking of proteins to the RBC surface, removal of PfGECO did not affect the targeting of other exported gametocyte proteins. This work has expanded the repertoire of known gametocyte-exported proteins to include a type IV HSP40, PfGECO.
Mitosomes in Trophozoites and Cysts of the Reptilian Parasite Entamoeba invadens
Authors: Siegesmund Maria A. , Hehl Adrian B. , van der Giezen Mark
Published: October 2011

Heat shock protein genes led to the discovery of mitosomes in
Entamoeba histolytica
, but mitosomes have not been described for any other
Entamoeba
species, nor have they been identified in the cyst stage. Here, we show that the distantly related reptilian pathogen
Entamoeba invadens
contains mitosomes, in both trophozoites and cysts, suggesting all
Entamoeba
species contain these organelles.
Regulation of Biofilm Components in Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium by Lytic Transglycosylases Involved in Cell Wall Turnover
Authors: Monteiro Claudia , Fang Xin , Ahmad Irfan , Gomelsky Mark , Römling Ute
Published: October 2011

In
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium, a biofilm mode of growth known as the rdar morphotype is regulated by several networks which sense multiple environmental signals. The transcriptional regulator CsgD is the major target for these regulatory pathways. In this study, we show that two lytic transglycosylases of family I, MltE and MltC, in combination increase CsgD expression and rdar morphotype. MltE and MltC, which share a highly similar transglycosylase SLT domain, work redundantly to regulate CsgD at the transcriptional and posttranscriptional levels. The effect of MltE and MltC on CsgD levels was independent of the known regulatory pathways that sense cell envelope stress. These findings reveal, for the first time, a specific function of lytic transglycosylases in
S
. Typhimurium and suggest the existence of a new signaling pathway that links cell wall turnover to biofilm formation.
Condom use during commercial sex among clients of Hijra sex workers in Karachi, Pakistan (cross-sectional study)
Authors: Siddiqui Anees ur Rehman , Qian Han-Zhu , Altaf Arshad , Cassell Holly , Shah Sharaf Ali , Vermund Sten H
Published: October 2011

Objective

To describe the prevalence and predictors of condom use and sexual risk in the male clients of Hijra sex workers (HSWs) in Karachi, Pakistan.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Karachi, Pakistan.

Participants

Clients of HSWs were recruited with assistance from HSWs and a non-governmental organisation (NGO) focused on men who have sex with men (MSM) during October–November 2010.

Measurements

The interviewer administered the questionnaire to each participant to solicit information on demographics, HIV/AIDS knowledge/attitudes and sexual risk behaviours/practices, including condom use in the last sexual act with the HSW.

Results

Of the 203 participants, 42.4% reported that they used condoms during their last sexual act with HSW, 40% were married, 18% had ever used drugs or alcohol, and 52% reported also engaging with female sex workers in the last month. Casual HSW clients were more likely to use condoms than regular clients (adjusted OR (AOR), 2.50; 95% CI 1.34 to 4.65), as were persons with a higher education level (AOR 5.8; 95% CI 1.6 to 20.3). Drug/alcohol users and non-users were equally likely to use condoms (AOR 1.11; 95% CI 0.51 to 2.24).

Conclusion

Clients of HSWs in Pakistan are at risk of acquiring HIV/STI infections. Concerted efforts are needed to increase condom use in this key bridge population to curtail the spread of HIV in the general population.
The association of maternal age with infant mortality, child anthropometric failure, diarrhoea and anaemia for first births: evidence from 55 low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Finlay Jocelyn E , Özaltin Emre , Canning David
Published: October 2011

Objective

To examine the association between maternal age at first birth and infant mortality, stunting, underweight, wasting, diarrhoea and anaemia in children in low- and middle-income countries.

Design

Cross-sectional analysis of nationally representative household samples. A modified Poisson regression model is used to estimate unadjusted and adjusted RR ratios.

Setting

Low- and middle-income countries.

Population

First births to women aged 12–35 where this birth occurred 12–60 months prior to interview. The sample for analysing infant mortality is comprised of 176 583 children in 55 low- and middle-income countries across 118 Demographic and Health Surveys conducted between 1990 and 2008.

Main outcome measures

Infant mortality in children under 12 months and stunting, underweight, wasting, diarrhoea and anaemia in children under 5 years.

Results

The investigation reveals two salient findings. First, in the sample of women who had their first birth between the ages of 12 and 35, the risk of poor child health outcome is lowest for women who have their first birth between the ages of 27 and 29. Second, the results indicate that both biological and social mechanisms play a role in explaining why children of young mothers have poorer outcomes.

Conclusions

The first-born children of adolescent mothers are the most vulnerable to infant mortality and poor child health outcomes. Additionally, first time mothers up to the age of 27 have a higher risk of having a child who has stunting, diarrhoea and moderate or severe anaemia. Maternal and child health programs should take account of this increased risk even for mothers in their early 20s. Increasing the age at first birth in developing countries may have large benefits in terms of child health.
Impact of walking on life expectancy and lifetime medical expenditure: the Ohsaki Cohort Study
Authors: Nagai Masato , Kuriyama Shinichi , Kakizaki Masako , Ohmori-Matsuda Kaori , Sone Toshimasa , Hozawa Atsushi , Kawado Miyuki , Hashimoto Shuji , Tsuji Ichiro
Published: October 2011

Objective

People who spend a longer time walking have lower demands for medical care. However, in view of their longer life expectancy, it is unclear whether their lifetime medical expenditure increases or decreases. The present study examined the association between time spent walking, life expectancy and lifetime medical expenditure.

Method

The authors followed up 27 738 participants aged 40–79 years and prospectively collected data on their medical expenditure and survival covering a 13-year-period. Participants were classified into those walking <1 and ≥1 h per day. The authors constructed life tables and estimated the life expectancy and lifetime medical expenditure from 40 years of age using estimate of multiadjusted mortality and medical expenditure using a Poisson regression model and linear regression model, respectively.

Results

Participants who walked ≥1 h per day have a longer life expectancy from 40 years of age than participants who walked <1 h per day. The multiadjusted life expectancy for those who walked ≥1 h per day was 44.81 years, significantly lower by 1.38 years in men (p=0.0073) in men and 57.78 years in women, non-significantly lower by 1.16 years in women (p=0.2351). In addition to their longer life expectancy, participants who walked ≥1 h per day required a lower lifetime medical expenditure from 40 years of age than participants who walked <1 h per day. The multiadjusted lifetime medical expenditure for those who walked ≥1 h per day was £99 423.6, significantly lower by 7.6% in men (p=0.0048) and £128 161.2, non-significantly lower by 2.7% in women (p=0.2559).

Discussion

Increased longevity resulting from a healthier lifestyle does not necessarily translate into an increased amount of medical expenditure throughout life. Encouraging people to walk may extend life expectancy and decrease lifetime medical expenditure, especially for men.
Freestanding midwifery unit versus obstetric unit: a matched cohort study of outcomes in low-risk women
Authors: Overgaard Charlotte , Møller Anna Margrethe , Fenger-Grøn Morten , Knudsen Lisbeth B , Sandall Jane
Published: October 2011

Objective

To compare perinatal and maternal morbidity and birth interventions in low-risk women giving birth in two freestanding midwifery units (FMUs) and two obstetric units (OUs).

Design

A cohort study with a matched control group.

Setting

The region of North Jutland, Denmark.

Participants

839 low-risk women intending FMU birth and a matched control group of 839 low-risk women intending OU birth were included at the start of care in labour. OU women were individually chosen to match selected obstetric/socio-economic characteristics of FMU women. Analysis was by intention to treat.

Main outcome measures

Perinatal and maternal morbidity and interventions.

Results

No significant differences in perinatal morbidity were observed between groups (Apgar scores <7/5, <9/5 or <7/1, admittance to neonatal unit, asphyxia or readmission). Adverse outcomes were rare and occurred in both groups. FMU women were significantly less likely to experience an abnormal fetal heart rate (RR: 0.3, 95% CI 0.2 to 0.5), fetal–pelvic complications (0.2, 0.05 to 0.6), shoulder dystocia (0.3, 0.1 to 0.9), occipital–posterior presentation (0.5, 0.3 to 0.9) and postpartum haemorrhage >500 ml (0.4, 0.3 to 0.6) compared with OU women. Significant reductions were found for the FMU group's use of caesarean section (0.6, 0.3 to 0.9), instrumental delivery (0.4, 0.3 to 0.6), and oxytocin augmentation (0.5, 0.3 to 0.6) and epidural analgesia (0.4, 0.3 to 0.6). Transfer during or <2 h after birth occurred in 14.8% of all FMU births but more frequently in primiparas than in multiparas (36.7% vs 7.2%).

Conclusion

Comparing FMU and OU groups, there was no increase in perinatal morbidity, but there were significantly reduced incidences of maternal morbidity, birth interventions including caesarean section, and increased likelihood of spontaneous vaginal birth. FMU care may be considered as an adequate alternative to OU care for low-risk women. Pregnant prospective mothers should be given an informed choice of place of birth, including information on transfer.
A COMPARISON BETWEEN THE INITIAL RATE EXPRESSIONS OBTAINED UNDER STRICT CONDITIONS AND THE RAPID EQUILIBRIUM ASSUMPTION USING, AS EXAMPLE, A FOUR SUBSTRATE ENZYME REACTION
Authors: YAGO J. M. , SOLO C. GARRIDO-DEL , GARCIA-MORENO M. , VARON R. , GARCIA-SEVILLA F. , ARRIBAS E.
Published: October 2011

The software WinStes, developed by our group, is used to derive the strict steady-state initial rate equation of the reaction mechanism of CTP:sn-glycerol-3-phosphate cytidylyltransferase [EC 2.7.7.39] from Bacillus subtilis. This enzyme catalyzes a reaction with two substrates and operates by a random ordered binding mechanism with two molecules of each substrate. The accuracy of the steady-state rate equation derived is checked by comparing the rate values it provides with those obtained from the simulated progress curves. To analyze the kinetics of this enzyme using the strict steady-state initial rate equation, several curves for different substrate concentrations and different rate constants are generated. A comparison of these curves with the curves obtained from the rapid equilibrium initial rate equation, with different substrate concentration values, serves to analyze how the strict steady-state rate equation values are closer to those of rapid equilibrium rate equations when rapid equilibrium conditions are fulfilled.
Intramuscular VEGF activates an SDF1-dependent progenitor cell cascade and an SDF1-independent muscle paracrine cascade for cardiac repair
Authors: Zisa David , Shabbir Arsalan , Mastri Michalis , Taylor Tyler , Aleksic Ilija , McDaniel Mary , Suzuki Gen , Lee Techung
Published: October 2011

The skeletal muscle is endowed with an impressive ability to regenerate after injury, and this ability is coupled to paracrine production of many trophic factors possessing cardiovascular benefits. Taking advantage of this humoral capacity of the muscle, we recently demonstrated an extracardiac therapeutic regimen based on intramuscular delivery of VEGF-A165 for repair of the failing hamster heart. This distal organ repair mechanism activates production from the injected hamstring of many trophic factors, among which stromal-derived factor-1 (SDF1) prominently mobilized multi-lineage progenitor cells expressing CXCR4 and their recruitment to the heart. The mobilized bone marrow progenitor cells express the cardiac transcription factors myocyte enhancer factor 2c and GATA4 and several major trophic factors, most notably IGF1 and VEGF. SDF1 blockade abrogated myocardial recruitment of CXCR4+ and c-kit+ progenitor cells with an insignificant effect on the hematopoietic progenitor lineage. The knockdown of cardiac progenitor cells led to deprivation of myocardial trophic factors, resulting in compromised cardiomyogenesis and angiogenesis. However, the VEGF-injected hamstring continued to synthesize cardioprotective factors, contributing to moderate myocardial tissue viability and function even in the presence of SDF1 blockade. These findings thus uncover two distinct but synergistic cardiac therapeutic mechanisms activated by intramuscular VEGF. Whereas the SDF1/CXCR4 axis activates the progenitor cell cascade and its trophic support of cardiomyogenesis intramuscularly, VEGF amplifies the skeletal muscle paracrine cascade capable of directly promoting myocardial survival independent of SDF1. Given that recent clinical trials of cardiac repair based on the use of marrow-mobilizing agents have been disappointing, the proposed dual therapeutic modality warrants further investigation.
Renin released from mast cells activated by circulating MCP-1 initiates the microvascular phase of the systemic inflammation of alveolar hypoxia
Authors: Chao Jie , Blanco Gustavo , Wood John G. , Gonzalez Norberto C.
Published: October 2011

Reduced alveolar Po2 in rats produces a rapid systemic inflammation characterized by reactive O2 species generation, mast cell (MC) degranulation, leukocyte-endothelial interactions, and increased vascular permeability. The inflammation is not initiated by the low systemic Po2 but rather by the release of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) from alveolar macrophages (AMO) activated by alveolar hypoxia. Circulating AMO-borne MCP-1 induces MC degranulation, which activates the local renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and mediates the microvascular inflammation. This study was directed to determine the mechanism of RAS activation by MCP-1-induced MC degranulation. Experiments in isolated rat peritoneal MCs showed the following: 1) Western blots and immunocytochemistry demonstrated the presence of renin and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in MCs and their release upon degranulation; 2) MCP-1-induced degranulation of MCs incubated in plasma produced an increase in angiotensin II (ANG II) concentration; and 3) this increase was inhibited completely by the following agents: the MCP-1 receptor antagonist RS-102895, the specific rat renin inhibitor WFML, or the ACE inhibitor captopril administered separately. Captopril also inhibited ANG II generation by MCs incubated in culture medium plus ANG I. The results show that peritoneal MCs contain active renin, which activates the RAS upon degranulation, and that peritoneal MCs are a source of ACE and suggest that conversion of ANG I to ANG II is mediated predominantly by ACE. This study provides novel evidence of the presence of active renin in rat peritoneal MCs and helps explain the mechanism of activation of the RAS during alveolar hypoxia.
Rheology of embryonic avian blood
Authors: Al-Roubaie Sarah , Jahnsen Espen D. , Mohammed Masud , Henderson-Toth Caitlin , Jones Elizabeth A. V.
Published: October 2011

Shear stress, a mechanical force created by blood flow, is known to affect the developing cardiovascular system. Shear stress is a function of both shear rate and viscosity. While established techniques for measuring shear rate in embryos have been developed, the viscosity of embryonic blood has never been known but always assumed to be like adult blood. Blood is a non-Newtonian fluid, where the relationship between shear rate and shear stress is nonlinear. In this work, we analyzed the non-Newtonian behavior of embryonic chicken blood using a microviscometer and present the apparent viscosity at different hematocrits, different shear rates, and at different stages during development from 4 days (Hamburger-Hamilton stage 22) to 8 days (about Hamburger-Hamilton stage 34) of incubation. We chose the chicken embryo since it has become a common animal model for studying hemodynamics in the developing cardiovascular system. We found that the hematocrit increases with the stage of development. The viscosity of embryonic avian blood in all developmental stages studied was shear rate dependent and behaved in a non-Newtonian manner similar to that of adult blood. The range of shear rates and hematocrits at which non-Newtonian behavior was observed is, however, outside the physiological range for the larger vessels of the embryo. Under low shear stress conditions, the spherical nucleated blood cells that make up embryonic blood formed into small aggregates of cells. We found that the apparent blood viscosity decreases at a given hematocrit during embryonic development, not due to changes in protein composition of the plasma but possibly due to the changes in cellular composition of embryonic blood. This decrease in apparent viscosity was only visible at high hematocrit. At physiological values of hematocrit, embryonic blood viscosity did not change significantly with the stage of development.
Differential effects of eNOS uncoupling on conduit and small arteries in GTP-cyclohydrolase I-deficient hph-1 mice
Authors: d'Uscio Livius V. , Smith Leslie A. , Katusic Zvonimir S.
Published: October 2011

In the present study, we used the hph-1 mouse, which displays GTP-cyclohydrolase I (GTPCH I) deficiency, to test the hypothesis that loss of tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) in conduit and small arteries activates compensatory mechanisms designed to protect vascular wall from oxidative stress induced by uncoupling of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Both GTPCH I activity and BH4levels were reduced in the aortas and small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. However, the BH4-to-7,8-dihydrobiopterin ratio was significantly reduced only in hph-1 aortas. Furthermore, superoxide anion and 3-nitrotyrosine production were significantly enhanced in aortas but not in small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. In contrast to the aorta, protein expression of copper- and zinc-containing superoxide dismutase (CuZnSOD) was significantly increased in small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. Protein expression of catalase was increased in both aortas and small mesenteric arteries of hph-1 mice. Further analysis of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS)/cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling demonstrated that protein expression of phosphorylated Ser1177-eNOS as well as basal cGMP levels and hydrogen peroxide was increased in hph-1 aortas. Increased production of hydrogen peroxide in hph-1 mice aortas appears to be the most likely mechanism responsible for phosphorylation of eNOS and elevation of cGMP. In contrast, upregulation of CuZnSOD and catalase in resistance arteries is sufficient to protect vascular tissue from increased production of reactive oxygen species generated by uncoupling of eNOS. The results of our study suggest that anatomical origin determines the ability of vessel wall to cope with oxidative stress induced by uncoupling of eNOS.
A selective phosphodiesterase 3 inhibitor rescues low Po2-induced ATP release from erythrocytes of humans with type 2 diabetes: implication for vascular control
Authors: Sprague Randy S. , Bowles Elizabeth A. , Achilleus David , Stephenson Alan H. , Ellis Christopher G. , Ellsworth Mary L.
Published: October 2011

Erythrocytes, via release of ATP in areas of low oxygen (O2) tension, are components of a regulatory system for the distribution of perfusion in skeletal muscle ensuring optimal O2delivery to meet tissue needs. In type 2 diabetes (DM2), there are defects in O2supply to muscle as well as a failure of erythrocytes to release ATP. The goal of this study was to ascertain if a phosphodiesterase 3 (PDE3) inhibitor, cilostazol, would rescue low O2-induced ATP release from DM2 erythrocytes and, thereby, enable these cells to dilate isolated erythrocyte-perfused skeletal muscle arterioles exposed to decreased extraluminal O2. Erythrocytes were obtained from healthy humans (HH; n = 12) and humans with DM2 ( n = 17). We determined that 1) PDE3B is similarly expressed in both groups, 2) mastoparan 7 (Giactivation) stimulates increases in cAMP in HH but not in DM2 erythrocytes, and 3) pretreatment of DM2 erythrocytes with cilostazol resulted in mastoparan 7-induced increases in cAMP not different from those in HH cells. Most importantly, cilostazol restored the ability of DM2 erythrocytes to release ATP in response to low O2. In contrast with perfusion with HH erythrocytes, isolated hamster retractor muscle arterioles perfused with DM2 erythrocytes constricted in response to low extraluminal PO2. However, in the presence of cilostazol (100 μM), DM2 erythrocytes induced vessel dilation not different from that seen with HH erythrocytes. Thus rescue of low O2-induced ATP release from DM2 erythrocytes by cilostazol restored the ability of erythrocytes to participate in the regulation of perfusion distribution in skeletal muscle.
Sex differences in carotid baroreflex control of arterial blood pressure in humans: relative contribution of cardiac output and total vascular conductance
Authors: Kim Areum , Deo Shekhar H. , Vianna Lauro C. , Balanos George M. , Hartwich Doreen , Fisher James P. , Fadel Paul J.
Published: October 2011

It is presently unknown whether there are sex differences in the magnitude of blood pressure (BP) responses to baroreceptor perturbation or if the relative contribution of cardiac output (CO) and total vascular conductance (TVC) to baroreflex-mediated changes in BP differs in young women and men. Since sympathetic vasoconstrictor tone is attenuated in women, we hypothesized that carotid baroreflex-mediated BP responses would be attenuated in women by virtue of a blunted vascular response (i.e., an attenuated TVC response). BP, heart rate (HR), and stroke volume were continuously recorded during the application of 5-s pulses of neck pressure (NP; carotid hypotension) and neck suction (NS; carotid hypertension) ranging from +40 to −80 Torr in women ( n = 20, 21 ± 0.5 yr) and men ( n = 20, 21 ± 0.4 yr). CO and TVC were calculated on a beat-to-beat basis. Women demonstrated greater depressor responses to NS (e.g., −60 Torr, −17 ± 1%baseline in women vs. −11 ± 1%baseline in men, P < 0.05), which were driven by augmented decreases in HR that, in turn, contributed to larger reductions in CO (−60 Torr, −15 ± 2%baseline in women vs. −6 ± 2%baseline in men, P < 0.05). In contrast, pressor responses to NP were similar in women and men (e.g., +40 Torr, +14 ± 2%baseline in women vs. +10 ± 1%baseline in men, P > 0.05), with TVC being the primary mediating factor in both groups. Our findings indicate that sex differences in the baroreflex control of BP are evident during carotid hypertension but not carotid hypotension. Furthermore, in contrast to our hypothesis, young women exhibited greater BP responses to carotid hypertension by virtue of a greater cardiac responsiveness.
The α-linolenic acid content of flaxseed can prevent the atherogenic effects of dietary trans fat
Authors: Bassett Chantal M. C. , McCullough Richelle S. , Edel Andrea L. , Patenaude Amanda , LaVallee Renee K. , Pierce Grant N.
Published: October 2011

Dietary intake of industrially hydrogenated trans fatty acids (TFA) has been associated with coronary heart disease. Dietary flaxseed can inhibit atherosclerosis induced by dietary cholesterol. The aim of this study was to determine whether supplementing the diet with flaxseed could protect against atherosclerosis induced by a diet enriched in TFA. Low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (LDLr−/−) mice were fed 1 of 14 experimental diets for 14 wk containing one of two fat sources [regular (pork/soy) or trans fat] at two concentrations (4 or 8%) and supplemented with or without dietary cholesterol (2%), whole ground flaxseed, or one of the components of flaxseed [α-linolenic acid (ALA), defatted fiber, or lignan]. Adding flaxseed to the diet partially mitigated the rise in circulating cholesterol levels induced by the cholesterol-enriched diet. Atherosclerosis was stimulated by TFA and/or cholesterol. Including milled flaxseed to an atherogenic diet significantly reduced atherosclerosis compared with the groups that consumed cholesterol and/or TFA. ALA was the only component within flaxseed that could inhibit the atherogenic action of cholesterol and/or TFA on its own. Dietary flaxseed protects against atherosclerotic development induced by TFA and cholesterol feeding through its content of ALA.
The dopamine D2receptor is expressed and sensitizes adenylyl cyclase activity in airway smooth muscle
Authors: Mizuta Kentaro , Zhang Yi , Xu Dingbang , Masaki Eiji , Panettieri Reynold A. , Emala Charles W.
Published: October 2011

Dopamine receptors are G protein-coupled receptors that are divided into two subgroups, “D1-like” receptors (D1and D5) that couple to the Gsprotein and “D2-like” receptors (D2, D3, and D4) that couple to Gi. Although inhaled dopamine has been reported to induce bronchodilation in patients with asthma, functional expression of dopamine receptor subtypes has never been described on airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells. Acute activation of Gi-coupled receptors inhibits adenylyl cyclase activity and cAMP synthesis, which classically impairs ASM relaxation. In contrast, chronic activation of Gi-coupled receptors produces a paradoxical enhancement of adenylyl cyclase activity referred to as heterologous sensitization. We questioned whether the dopamine D2-like receptor is expressed on ASM, whether it exhibits classical Gi-coupling, and whether it modulates ASM function. We detected the mRNA encoding the dopamine D2receptor in total RNA isolated from native human ASM and from cultured human airway smooth muscle (HASM) cells. Immunoblots identified the dopamine D2receptor protein in both native human and guinea pig ASM and cultured HASM cells. The dopamine D2receptor protein was immunohistochemically localized to both human and guinea pig ASM. Acute activation of the dopamine D2receptor by quinpirole inhibited forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity in HASM cells, which was blocked by the dopamine D2receptor antagonist L-741626. In contrast, the chronic pretreatment (1 h) with quinpirole potentiated forskolin-stimulated adenylyl cyclase activity, which was inhibited by L-741626, the phospholipase C inhibitor U73122, or the protein kinase C inhibitor GF109203X. Quinpirole also stimulated inositol phosphate synthesis, which was inhibited by L-741626 or U73122. Chronic pretreatment (1 h) of the guinea pig tracheal rings with quinpirole significantly potentiated forskolin-induced airway relaxation, which was inhibited by L-741626. These results demonstrate that functional dopamine D2receptors are expressed on ASM and could be a novel therapeutic target for the relaxation of ASM.
The monocrotaline model of pulmonary hypertension in perspective
Authors: Gomez-Arroyo Jose G. , Farkas Laszlo , Alhussaini Aysar A. , Farkas Daniela , Kraskauskas Donatas , Voelkel Norbert F. , Bogaard Harm J.
Published: October 2011

Severe forms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are characterized by various degrees of remodeling of the pulmonary arterial vessels, which increases the pulmonary vascular resistance and right ventricular afterload, thus contributing to the development of right ventricle dysfunction and failure. Recent years have seen advances in the understanding of the pathobiology of PAH; however, many important questions remain unanswered. Elucidating the pathobiology of PAH continues to be critical to design new effective therapeutic strategies, and appropriate animal models of PAH are necessary to achieve the task. Although the monocrotaline rat model of PAH has contributed to a better understanding of vascular remodeling in pulmonary hypertension, we question the validity of this model as a preclinically relevant model of severe plexogenic PAH. Here we review pertinent publications that either have been forgotten or ignored, and we reexamine the monocrotaline model in the context of human forms of PAH.
Homozygosity Mapping and Exome Sequencing Reveal
GATAD1
Mutation in Autosomal Recessive Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Theis Jeanne L. , Sharpe Katharine M. , Matsumoto Martha E. , Chai High Seng , Nair Asha A. , Theis Jason D. , de Andrade Mariza , Wieben Eric D. , Michels Virginia V. , Olson Timothy M.
Published: October 2011

Background—

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a heritable, genetically heterogeneous disorder that typically exhibits autosomal dominant inheritance. Genomic strategies enable discovery of novel, unsuspected molecular underpinnings of familial DCM. We performed genome-wide mapping and exome sequencing in a unique family wherein DCM segregated as an autosomal recessive (AR) trait.

Methods and Results—

Echocardiography in 17 adult descendants of first cousins revealed DCM in 2 female siblings and idiopathic left ventricular enlargement in their brother. Genotyping and linkage analysis mapped an AR DCM locus to chromosome arm 7q21, which was validated and refined by high-density homozygosity mapping. Exome sequencing of the affected sisters was then used as a complementary strategy for mutation discovery. An iterative bioinformatics process was used to filter >40 000 genetic variants, revealing a single shared homozygous missense mutation localized to the 7q21 critical region. The mutation, absent in HapMap, 1000 Genomes, and 474 ethnically matched controls, altered a conserved residue of
GATAD1
, encoding GATA zinc finger domain-containing protein 1. Thirteen relatives were heterozygous mutation carriers with no evidence of myocardial disease, even at advanced ages. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated nuclear localization of GATAD1 in left ventricular myocytes, yet subcellular expression and nuclear morphology were aberrant in the proband.

Conclusions—

Linkage analysis and exome sequencing were used as synergistic genomic strategies to identify
GATAD1
as a gene for AR DCM. GATAD1 binds to a histone modification site that regulates gene expression. Consistent with murine DCM caused by genetic disruption of histone deacetylases, the data implicate an inherited basis for epigenetic dysregulation in human heart failure.
Zamyatin's novel We, in the context of works and ideas Proletkult
Authors: Aginsk Faith
Published: October 2011

This article provides an analysis of the dystopia We by Zamyatin in the light of Proletcult writings, reading the novel as a parody on their poetry and prose. Zamyatin wisely predicted the future of the society that was the dream of Proletcult writers, who glorified a society of robots, happily and blindly fulfilling all the orders of their government. The “heretic” Zamyatin could foresee the similar development of Russia after the October Revolution, which deprived the Russian people of any individuality and human rights, and depicted the One State and its Benefactor, very much reminding the author of his motherland.
Structure-unit cell-based approach on three-dimensional representative braided preforms from four-step braiding: Experimental determination of effects of structure-process parameters on predetermined yarn path
Authors: Bilisik Kadir , Sahbaz Nesrin
Published: October 2011

The aim of this study was to understand the effects of braid pattern and the number of layers on three-dimensional (3D) braided unit cell structures. Various unit cell-based representative 3D braided preforms were developed. Data generated from these structures included unit cell dimensions, yarn angle, and yarn length in the unit cell structures.

It was shown that braid patterns affected the 3D braided unit cell structures. The 1 × 1 braid pattern made fully interconnected integral 3D braided unit cell structures, whereas the 2 × 1 braid pattern created disconnected braid layers that were connected to the structures edges. When the number of layers increased, 3D braided unit cell thickness also increased. Braid pattern slightly affected the braider yarn angle, whereas the number of layers did not influence it. It was observed that the number of layers considerably affected the yarn length in the unit cell structure. Increasing the layer number from five to 10 layers created a yarn path in the unit cell edge regions called the ‘multilayer yarn length’. This yarn path was not observed below five-layer 3D braided unit cell structures. In jamming conditions, minimum jamming decreased the width of the unit cell structure, but maximum jamming increased its width. On the other hand, minimum jamming decreased the surface angle of the unit cell structure, whereas maximum jamming increased the surface angle. In addition, it was realized that jamming conditions influenced the density of the unit cell but did not affect the yarn length in the unit cell structures.
Parenteral Nutrition–Induced Hypersensitivity in an Adolescent
Authors: Bartels Cathy L. , Sanz Christine , Stec Robin , Coulter Don W.
Published: October 2011

A case report of a 15‐year‐old adolescent male who developed a hypersensitivity reaction to a parenteral nutrition (PN) solution containing multivitamins (MVI) is presented. Within 30 minutes after initiation of PN and lipids, the patient developed a total‐body pruritic urticarial rash that resolved after discontinuation of the infusions and administration of diphenhydramine. Rechallenge with the same PN solution excluding heparin, as well as lipids, resulted in a similar urticarial reaction that also resolved within 30 minutes after discontinuation of the infusions and administration of diphenhydramine. Another rechallenge with a solution containing dextrose and amino acids at the same concentrations contained in the original PN solution did not elicit an allergic reaction, whereas addition of MVI to the dextrose and amino acids resulted in a similar allergic reaction 20 minutes after the start of the infusion. It was determined that the MVI component of the PN was the most likely causative agent of this patient's urticarial reaction.
Correlation Between Nutrition Assessment Data and Percent Body Fat via Plethysmography in Pediatric Oncology Patients
Authors: White Melinda , Davies Peter , Murphy Alexia
Published: October 2011

Background: Routine nutrition assessment is a core part of the nutrition management of the pediatric oncology population. The aims of this study were to build on the findings of a previous study to investigate the relationship between nutrition assessment variables and percent body fat (%BF) and to produce an equation to predict %BF in the pediatric oncology population. Methods: The nutrition status assessment criteria for comparison with %BF measures were adapted with permission from the St Jude Children's Research Hospital nutrition screening system, Department of Clinical Nutrition. Additional measures not part of the screening system included midarm circumference (MAC); triceps, biceps, suprailiac, and subscapular skinfolds; and arm fat area. %BF was determined via air displacement plethysmography and interpreted via percentiles derived from body fat reference curves for healthy children. Results: Forty‐two children, 22 males and 20 females, participated in the study. Correlational analysis revealed significant correlations with %BF and weight and body mass index z scores, percentage of ideal body weight (%IBW), MAC, skinfolds, arm fat area, and the total nutrition screening score. No relationship was found between height z score, percentage of weight loss over the previous 1 month, serum albumin, diagnosis risk, oral intake, and impending therapy or treatment side effects. Regression analysis found %BF = (1.4 × Biceps Skinfolds (mm) + (0.16 × %IBW) − 1 to have the strongest correlation (r2 = 0.74). Conclusions: The equation presented here requires validation to estimate %BF in the pediatric oncology population.
Employee Job Search
Authors: Boswell Wendy R. , Zimmerman Ryan D. , Swider Brian W.
Published: October 2011

Job search behaviors occur across various contexts, involving diverse populations of job seekers searching for employment opportunities. In particular, individuals may search for their first jobs following a period of education, may seek reemployment following job loss, or may search for new opportunities while currently employed. Research in each of these contexts has evolved somewhat separately, yet there is value to applying the ideas and findings from one search context to other search contexts. The purpose of this article is to review the prior research in each of the three job search contexts and offer an integrative analysis of the predictors, processes, consequences, and varying objectives of job search behavior across an individual’s potential employment situations (i.e., new entrant, job loser, employed job seeker). Implications for future research on job search behavior are discussed.
Globalization and human well-being
Authors: Mukherjee Nisha , Krieckhaus Jonathan
Published: October 2011

Over the past half-century we have witnessed a gradual trend towards increased globalization. This phenomenon includes such diverse processes as the greater mobility of capital, goods, and services, as well as increasing diffusion of ideas, technology, and norms. Given the ubiquitous and multi-faceted nature of globalization, we evaluate the effect of economic, social, and political global integration on a particularly important outcome – human well-being. Theoretically, we argue that globalization has a large number of different effects on human well-being, including multiple positive effects and multiple negative effects. Empirically, we analyze the impact of globalization on well-being using a pooled data set, including 132 countries over the time period 1970–2007. We find that, on balance, all three forms of globalization positively affect well-being.
Adolescents’ Experiences of Discrimination and Parent–Adolescent Relationship Quality
Authors: Riina Elizabeth M. , McHale Susan M.
Published: October 2011

Grounded in a cultural–ecological perspective, the goals of this study were to examine the implications of young adolescents’ experiences of racial discrimination for the quality of relationships with mothers and fathers and to test whether sociocultural processes, such as youth ethnic identity and parents’ racial socialization strategies, moderated these linkages. Participants were older and younger adolescents in 176 two-parent African American families who completed questionnaires about their discrimination experiences, ethnic identities, and warmth and conflict in their relationships with parents. Mothers and fathers reported on cultural socialization and preparation for bias practices. Consistent with an emotional spillover hypothesis, discrimination was linked to poorer relationship quality with both mothers and fathers. Youth ethnic identity and mothers’ racial socialization moderated discrimination–relationship linkages. Findings were consistent with prior research on discrimination and highlight the protective nature of some sociocultural processes for family relationships.
Septoplasty Improves Life Quality Related to Allergy in Patients with Septal Deviation and Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Kim Young Hyo , Kim Beom Joon , Bang Kang Hyun , Hwang Yoonseok , Jang Tae Young
Published: October 2011

Objective

Evaluate the effect of septoplasty on the clinical course of allergic rhinitis by comparing (1) symptom change using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), (2) change of the medication score, and (3) improvement of the quality of life using a questionnaire.

Study Design

Prospective pilot.

Setting

Academic tertiary rhinological practice.

Subjects and Methods

Sixty‐two patients who had undergone septoplasty and turbinoplasty for septal deviation and allergic rhinitis were enrolled in group A. Twenty‐six patients who had undergone only turbinoplasty for allergic rhinitis were enrolled in group B. The VAS score, the Average Rescue Medication Score (ARMS), and the Rhinasthma Questionnaire for the quality of life were all obtained from each patient. These parameters were compared before and after the surgery and between the groups.

Results

Both groups showed significant improvement of the VAS score (P <. 001). When the change of VAS was compared between groups, there was a significant difference in group A only for nasal obstruction (P =. 047). Comparison of the ARMS between groups showed significant improvement in both groups after the surgery (P <. 01). However, there were no differences between the groups. The Rhinasthma score of group A was significantly lowered after the surgery (56.4 ± 13.2 to 34.1 ± 12.3, P <. 001). The Rhinasthma score of group A was significantly lower than that of group B after the surgery (P =. 004).

Conclusions

This is the first research about the potential effect of septoplasty on the clinical course of allergic rhinitis. Further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects.
Mirror Biofeedback Rehabilitation after Administration of Single‐Dose Botulinum Toxin for Treatment of Facial Synkinesis
Authors: Azuma Takahiro , Nakamura Katsuhiko , Takahashi Mika , Ohyama Seizo , Toda Naoki , Iwasaki Hidetaka , Kalubi Bukasa , Takeda Noriaki
Published: October 2011

Objective

The efficacy of facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror after administration of a single dose of botulinum A toxin on facial synkinesis was examined in patients with chronic facial palsy.

Study Design

Prospective clinical study.

Setting

University hospital.

Subjects and Methods

The present study includes 8 patients with Bell palsy and 5 with herpes zoster oticus showing facial synkinesis. A single dose of botulinum A toxin was used as the initial process of facial rehabilitation. Patients then continued a daily facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror at home. They were instructed to keep their eyes symmetrically open using a mirror during mouth movements. The degree of oral‐ocular synkinesis was evaluated by the degree of asymmetry of eye opening width during mouth movements (% eye opening).

Results

After administration of a single dose of botulinum A toxin, temporary relief of facial synkinesis was observed in all patients. Patients were then instructed to continue the facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror for 10 months. The mean values of the percent of eye opening during 3 designated mouth movements that included lip pursing /u:/, teeth baring /i:/, and cheek puffing /pu:/ increased significantly after 10 months when the effects of botulinum A toxin had completely disappeared.

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that facial biofeedback rehabilitation with a mirror after administration of a single dose of botulinum A toxin is a long‐lasting treatment of established facial synkinesis in patients with chronic facial palsy.