bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined activity of LACS1 and LACS4 is required for proper pollen coat formation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jessen Dirk , Olbrich Andrea , Knüfer Jessica , Krüger Antje , Hoppert Michael , Polle Andrea , Fulda Martin
Published: July 2011

Very long chain lipids are important components of the plant cuticle that establishes the boundary surface of aerial organs. In addition, these lipids were detected in the extracellular pollen coat (tryphine), where they play a crucial role in appropriate pollen‐stigma communication. As such they are involved in the early interaction of pollen with the stigma. A substantial reduction in tryphine lipids was shown to compromise pollen germination and, consequently, resulted in male sterility. We investigated the role of two long‐chain acyl‐CoA synthetases (LACSs) in Arabidopsis with respect to their contribution to the production of tryphine lipids. LACS was shown to provide CoA‐activated very long chain fatty acids (VLCFA‐CoAs) to the pathways of wax biosynthesis. The allocation of sufficient quantities of VLCFA‐CoA precursors should therefore be relevant to the generation of tryphine lipids. Here, we report on the identification of lacs1 lacs4 double knock‐out mutant lines that were conditionally sterile and showed significant reductions in pollen coat lipids. Whereas the contributions of both LACS proteins to surface wax levels were roughly additive, their co‐operation in tryphine lipid biosynthesis was clearly more complex. The inactivation of LACS4 resulted in increased levels of tryphine lipids accompanied by morphological anomalies of the pollen grains. The additional inactivation of LACS1 neutralized the morphological defects, decreased the tryphine lipids far below wild‐type levels and resulted in conditionally sterile pollen.
Pollen:ovule ratio and its relationship with other floral traits in Papilionoideae (Leguminosae): an evaluation with Argentine species
Authors: Etcheverry A. V. , Alemán M. M. , Figueroa‐Fleming T. , López‐Spahr D. , Gómez C. A. , Yáñez C. , Figueroa‐Castro D. M. , Ortega‐Baes P.
Published: July 2011

The pollen:ovule ratio (P/O) has traditionally been used as a rough estimator of plant breeding systems. It has been shown that plant breeding systems are associated with particular floral traits. In this study, we determined the P/O in 21 Leguminosae species from Argentina and explored relationships between P/O and taxonomic position, flower size, floral rewards, pollen presentation and pollination mechanisms. According to the results, 15 out of the 21 species classified were obligate xenogamous, although some of them have been recorded as facultative xenogamous in previous studies. There was a significant effect of taxonomic position (genus), reward type and pollination mechanism on P/O. Species offering only nectar as a floral reward (which were species with a brush mechanism) had a significantly lower P/O than species offering pollen or pollen and nectar. Species with the brush pollination mechanism had the lowest P/O, while species with valvular and pump mechanism had the highest P/O. However, pollen presentation (primary and secondary) and flower size did not have a significant effect on P/O. Our results demonstrate that P/O variability is determined by taxonomic position and pollination mechanism in this plant group.
“Give me a fish and I eat today: teach me to fish and I eat for a lifetime”. The Newcastle Programme
Authors: Jacobs Tricia , Lyons Suzanne
Published: July 2011

The development of a new occupational therapy course at the University of Newcastle has proved an exciting challenge to the authors. A common core year with other health professionals introduces students to the concepts of holistic health. Students develop problem solving skills and an attitude to therapy which encourages them to focus on each client as an individual, living and working within their specific environment. The reductionist view of intervention does not seem to be compatible with the self directed, problem based approach to learning. New patterns of fieldwork to support and consolidate theoretical input have been developed. Staff have learnt a new approach to education which is satisfying and rewarding. We believe students will graduate with skills which will allow them to meet the challenge of a new century.
Evaluation of serological tests for diagnosis of Bordetella pertussis infection in adolescents and adults
Authors: MIYASHITA NAOYUKI , KAWAI YASUHIRO , YAMAGUCHI TETSUYA , OUCHI KAZUNOBU
Published: July 2011

Background and objective:  Bacterial agglutination antibodies against Bordetella pertussis, Yamaguchi and Tohama strains, are frequently measured for serodiagnosis of pertussis infection in Japan. To determine the serological criteria, the comparative titres of bacterial agglutination antibody and anti‐pertussis toxin (PT) antibody were evaluated.

Methods:  Antibody titres were analysed in 36 definitive (fourfold increase in agglutination antibody) and 137 presumptive (high titre of single‐antibody) cases of B. pertussis infection among adolescents and adults, and in a control group of 318 healthy volunteers.

Results:  When a single Yamaguchi agglutinin titre of ≥1:1280 (> three SD above the geometric mean for the control group) was taken as diagnostic, the sensitivity and specificity at 4–5 weeks after onset of cough were 58% and 98%, respectively. Using this criterion, the clinical findings in presumptive cases were almost identical to those in definitive cases. When the two tests were compared using 318 control sera, there was no association between the Tohama agglutinin titre and the anti‐PT antibody titre, whereas a weak association between the Yamaguchi agglutinin titre and the anti‐PT antibody titre was observed. When the numbers of pertussis cases with high antibody titres in the two tests were compared, 60% of cases with a Yamaguchi agglutinin titre of ≥1:1280 showed an anti‐PT antibody titre of ≥100 EU/mL.

Conclusions:  These results indicate that the bacterial agglutination test is a method with low sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of B. pertussis infection. Therefore, to yield an accurate diagnosis, anti‐PT antibody levels should be measured instead of bacterial agglutination antibody.
Chronic myelocytic leukemia in pregnancy: A case report describing successful treatment using multimodal therapy
Authors: Eskander Ramez N. , Tarsa Maryam , Herbst Kenneth D. , Kelly Thomas F.
Published: July 2011

Leukemia during pregnancy is rare, posing a complex series of questions, including appropriate therapy and maternal counseling. Management of chronic myelocytic leukemia (CML) during pregnancy is limited. Our patient presented at 30 weeks' gestation with anemia, leukocytosis, and a non‐productive cough. Polymerase chain reaction performed on a peripheral blood sample confirmed presence of the breakpoint cluster region‐Abl1 chromosomal translocation and the diagnosis of CML. Therapy included acute leukocytapheresis, followed by α‐interferon and imatinib mesylate. The patient responded to treatment and delivered a viable female infant at term weighing 2613 g. Continued imatinib mesylate chemotherapy post‐delivery resulted in complete clinical remission. Successful antepartum management of newly diagnosed CML is possible utilizing leukocytapheresis, α‐interferon and, more recently, imatinib mesylate. Definitive treatment should not be delayed due to pregnancy.
Molecular and morphological evidences reveal a cryptic species in the Vinaceous Rosefinch Carpodacus vinaceus (Fringillidae; Aves)
Authors: Wu Hsu‐Chun , Lin Rong‐Chien , Hung Hsin‐Yi , Yeh Chia‐Fen , Chu Jui‐Hua , Yang Xiao‐Jun , Yao Chiou‐Ju , Zou Fa‐Sheng , Yao Cheng‐Te , Li Shou‐Hsien , Lei Fu‐Min
Published: July 2011

Wu, H.‐C., Lin, R.‐C., Hung, H.‐Y., Yeh, C.‐F., Chu, J.‐H., Yang, X.‐J., Yao, C.‐J., Zou, F.‐S., Yao, C.‐T., Li, S.‐H. & Lei, F.‐M. (2011). Molecular and morphological evidences reveal a cryptic species in the Vinaceous Rosefinch Carpodacus vinaceus (Fringillidae; Aves). —Zoologica Scripta, 40, 468–478.

The Vinaceous Rosefinch (Carpodacus vinaceus) is endemic in East Asia with two recognized subspecies –C. v. vinaceus, distributed along the eastern edge of the Tibetan Plateau and the Himalayas, and C. v. formosanus, restricted to Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range. As reflected in a controversial taxonomic history, this vastly disjunctive distribution pattern suggests that the subspecies, having been isolated from each other for a long time, might have diverged, challenging the current taxonomic treatment and calling for possible species delimitation. Sequences of two mitochondrial fragments (mtDNA) and two Z‐linked nuclear loci (zDNA) were used to reconstruct the intraspecific phylogeny of C. vinaceous. The mtDNA tree shows that the two subspecies of the vinaceous rosefinch form two exclusively monophyletic clades. All but one zDNA sequences from the nominate subspecies and C. v. formosanus also formed exclusively monophyletic clades (the exceptional zDNA sequence from C. v. vinaceous formed a weakly supported clade with two outgroup species). Moreover, by conducting quantitative comparisons of morphometric traits and male plumage coloration, we found that the two subspecies exhibit distinguishable morphological differences. All the evidence therefore suggests that C. v. formosanus is a cryptic species and that its taxonomic status should be restored to full species. Molecular dating suggests that the two sibling rosefinches split 1.7 ± 0.2 million years ago, providing a point estimate for the historical connectivity of biota between eastern Tibet‐Himalayas and montane Taiwan.
Shyness‐Sensitivity and Unsociability in Rural Chinese Children: Relations With Social, School, and Psychological Adjustment
Authors: Chen Xinyin , Wang Li , Cao Ruixin
Published: July 2011

The purpose of this study was to examine how shyness‐sensitivity and unsociability were associated with social, school, and psychological adjustment in rural Chinese children. Participants were third‐ to fifth‐grade students (N = 820; M age = 10 years) in rural schools in P. R. China. Data on shyness‐sensitivity, unsociability, and adjustment were obtained from multiple sources including peer assessments, sociometric nominations, teacher ratings, self‐reports, and school records. It was found that unsociability was associated with social, school, and psychological problems, whereas shyness was generally associated with indexes of adjustment such as social status, teacher‐rated competence, and academic achievement. The results indicate that rural Chinese context may play an important role in defining the functional meanings of children’s social behaviors.
Mutual Support: a model of participatory support by and for people with learning difficulties
Authors: Keyes Sarah E. , Brandon Toby
Published: July 2011

Accessible summary

 People with learning difficulties have been involved in research that asked them to tell their stories about how they support (help) each other.

 There were many times when people had helped each other in lots of different ways.

 People talked about times when they had listened to each other and helped each other when things were hard. They also spoke about working as a team and helping each other to learn.

Supporting each other can make life better for people with learning difficulties and help to break down the barriers.

Mutual Support, a model of peer support by and for people with learning difficulties, was constructed through a participatory research process. The research focussed on individual narratives from people with learning difficulties. These narratives were then brought together to form a collective model of support. This paper outlines the detailed research process and positions the collective model of support within the self‐advocacy and involvement movements. Direct quotes from people with learning difficulties illustrate the different aspects of the multifaceted model. The positive effects of Mutual Support, which form the basis of the implications for wider policy, theory and practice, are also outlined. These include people being able to participate more fully; ambitions being fulfilled; people who have been mentored becoming mentors themselves; and dignity and respect being reclaimed. The overall argument is that, as an example of empowerment through participation, peer support by and for people with learning difficulties has emancipatory potential.
Glycine release provoked by disturbed Na+, K+ and Ca2+ homeostasis in cerebellar nerve endings: roles of Ca2+ channels, Na+/Ca2+ exchangers and GlyT2 transporter reversal
Authors: Romei Cristina , Di Prisco Silvia , Raiteri Maurizio , Raiteri Luca
Published: July 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 50–63.

Glycine release provoked by ion dysregulations typical of some neuropathological conditions was analyzed in cerebellar synaptosomes selectively pre‐labelled with [3H]glycine through GlyT2 transporters and exposed in superfusion to KCl, 4‐aminopyridine (4‐AP) or veratridine. The overflows caused by relatively low concentrations of the releasers were largely external Ca2+‐dependent. Higher concentrations of KCl (50 mM) or veratridine (10 μM), but not of 4‐AP (1 mM), involved also external Ca2+‐independent mechanisms. GlyT1‐mediated release could not be observed; only the external Ca2+‐independent veratridine‐evoked overflow occurred significantly by GlyT2 reversal. None of the three depolarizing agents activated store‐operated or transient receptor potential or L‐type Ca2+ channels. The overflows caused by KCl or 4‐AP occurred in part by N‐ and P/Q‐type voltage‐sensitive calcium channel‐dependent exocytosis. Significant portions of the external Ca2+‐dependent overflow evoked by KCl or 4‐AP (and all that caused by veratridine) were mediated by reverse plasmalemmal Na+/Ca2+ exchangers. Significant contribution to the overflows evoked by KCl or veratridine came from Ca2+ originated through mitochondrial Na+/Ca2+ exchangers. Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release (CICR) mediated by inositoltrisphosphate receptors (InsP3Rs) represents the final trigger of the glycine release evoked by high KCl. The overflows evoked by 4‐AP or, less so, by veratridine also involved InsP3R‐mediated CICR and, in part, CICR mediated by ryanodine receptors. To conclude, ionic dysregulations typical of ischemia and epilepsy caused glycine release in cerebellum by multiple differential mechanisms that may represent potential therapeutic targets.
SEX SELECTION ABORTION IN KAZAKHSTAN: UNDERSTANDING A CULTURAL JUSTIFICATION
Authors: COOLEY DENNIS , CHESNOKOVA IRINA
Published: July 2011

The topic of abortion has been extensively researched, and the research has produced a large number of arguments and discussions. Missing in the literature, however, are discussions of practices in some areas of the Developing or Third World. In this paper, we examine the morality of sex selection abortions in Kazakhstan's Kazakh culture, and argue that such abortions can be ethically justified based, in part, on the unique perspectives of Kazakh culture.
Does Information Matter? Competition, Quality, and the Impact of Nursing Home Report Cards
Authors: Grabowski David C. , Town Robert J.
Published: July 2011

Objective. We evaluate the effects of the Nursing Home Quality Initiative (NHQI), which introduced quality measures to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' Nursing Home Compare website, on facility performance and consumer demand for services.

Data Sources. The nursing home Minimum Data Set facility reports from 1999 to 2005 merged with facility‐level data from the On‐Line Survey, Certification, and Reporting System.

Study Design. We rely on the staggered rollout of the report cards across pilot and nonpilot states to examine the effect of report cards on market share and quality of care. We also exploit differences in nursing home market competition at baseline to identify the impacts of the new information on nursing home quality.

Results. The introduction of the NHQI was generally unrelated to facility quality and consumer demand. However, nursing homes facing greater competition improved their quality more than facilities in less competitive markets.

Conclusions. The lack of competition in many nursing home markets may help to explain why the NHQI report card effort had a minimal effect on nursing home quality. With the introduction of market‐based reforms such as report cards, this result suggests policy makers must also consider market structure in efforts to improve nursing home performance.
Acute alcohol intoxication reduces mortality, inflammatory responses and hepatic injury after haemorrhage and resuscitationin vivo
Authors: Relja B , Höhn C , Bormann F , Seyboth K , Henrich D , Marzi I , Lehnert M
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Haemorrhagic shock and resuscitation (H/R) induces hepatic injury, strong inflammatory changes and death. Alcohol intoxication is assumed to worsen pathophysiological derangements after H/R. Here, we studied the effects of acute alcohol intoxication on survival, liver injury and inflammation after H/R, in rats.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Rats were given a single oral dose of ethanol (5 g·kg−1, 30%) or saline (control), 12 h before they were haemorrhaged for 60 min and resuscitated (H/R). Sham groups received the same procedures without H/R. Measurements were made 2, 24 and 72 h after resuscitation. Survival was assessed 72 h after H/R.

KEY RESULTS

Ethanol increased survival after H/R three‐fold and also induced fatty changes in the liver. H/R‐induced liver injury was amplified by ethanol at 2 h but inhibited 24 h after H/R. Elevated serum IL‐6 levels as well as hepatic IL‐6 and TNF‐α gene expression 2 h after H/R were reduced by ethanol. Ethanol enhanced serum IL‐1β at 2 h, but did not affect increased hepatic IL‐1β expression at 72 h after H/R. Local inflammatory markers, hepatic infiltration with polymorphonuclear leukocytes and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 expression decreased after ethanol compared with saline, following H/R. Ethanol reduced H/R‐induced IκBα activation 2 h after H/R, and NF‐κB‐dependent gene expression of MMP9.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Ethanol reduced H/R‐induced mortality at 72 h, accompanied by a suppression of proinflammatory changes after H/R in ethanol‐treated animals. Binge‐like ethanol exposure modulated the inflammatory response after H/R, an effect that was associated with NF‐κB activity.
Pharmacological characterization of native α7 nicotinic ACh receptors and their contribution to depolarization‐elicited exocytosis in human chromaffin cells
Authors: Pérez‐Alvarez Alberto , Hernández‐Vivanco Alicia , Alonso y Gregorio Sergio , Tabernero Angel , McIntosh J Michael , Albillos Almudena
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Expression of α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) and their role in exocytosis have not yet been examined in human chromaffin cells.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH To characterize these receptors and investigate their function, patch‐clamp experiments were performed in human chromaffin cells from organ donors.

KEY RESULTS The nicotinic current provoked by 300 µM ACh in voltage‐clamped cells was blocked by the nicotinic receptor antagonists α‐bungarotoxin (α‐Bgtx; 1 µM; 6 ± 1.7%) or methyllycaconitine (MLA; 10 nM; 7 ± 1.6%), respectively, in an irreversible and reversible manner, without affecting exocytosis. Choline (10 mM) pulses induced a biphasic current with an initial quickly activated (5.5 ± 0.4 ms rise time) and inactivated component (8.5 ± 0.4 ms time constant) (termed α7), which was blocked by α‐Bgtx or MLA, followed by a slower component (non‐α7). α7 nAChR currents were dissected by blocking the non‐α7 nAChR current component of the ACh and choline response with the α6* nAChR blocker α‐conotoxin (α‐Ctx) MII[S4A, E11A, L15A]. PNU‐282987, an α7 nAChR‐specific agonist, elicited rapidly activated and rapidly inactivated currents. α7 nAChR‐positive allosteric modulators, such as 5‐hydroxyindole (1 mM) and PNU‐120596 (10 µM), potentiated responses that were blocked by α‐Bgtx or MLA. Exocytosis was evoked by depolarization‐elicited α7 nAChR currents, using choline in the presence of α‐Ctx MII[MS4A, E11A, L15A] or PNU‐282987 as agonists.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Our electrophysiological recordings of pure α7 nAChR currents elicited by rapid application of agonists demonstrated that functional α7 nAChRs are expressed and contribute to depolarization‐elicited exocytosis in human chromaffin cells.
Interplay between statins and PPARs in improving cardiovascular outcomes: a double‐edged sword?
Authors: Balakumar Pitchai , Mahadevan Nanjaian
Published: July 2011

Statins are best‐selling medications in the management of high cholesterol and associated cardiovascular complications. They inhibit 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl‐coenzyme A (HMG‐CoA)‐reductase in order to prevent disproportionate cholesterol synthesis. Statins slow the progression of atherosclerosis, prevent the secondary cardiovascular events and improve the cardiovascular outcomes in patients with elevated cholesterol levels. The underlying mechanisms pertaining to the cardioprotective role of statins are linked with numerous pleiotropic actions including inhibition of inflammatory events and improvement of endothelial function, besides an effective cholesterol‐lowering ability. Intriguingly, recent studies suggest possible interplay between statins and nuclear transcription factors like PPARs, which should also be taken into consideration while analysing the potential of statins in the management of cardiovascular complications. It could be suggested that statins have two major roles: (i) a well‐established cholesterol‐lowering effect through inhibition of HMG‐CoA‐reductase; (ii) a newly explored PPAR‐activating property, which could mediate most of cardiovascular protective pleiotropic effects of statins including anti‐inflammatory, antioxidant and anti‐fibrotic properties. The present review addressed the underlying principles pertaining to the modulatory role of statins on PPARs.
Toxicity associated with epirubicin treatments in a large case series of dogs
Authors: Marrington A. M. , Killick D. R. , Grant I. A. , Blackwood L.
Published: July 2011

Epirubicin is a stereoisomer of doxorubicin that is widely used in human oncology. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the toxicity associated with epirubicin administration in dogs. Three hundred and fifteen treatments were administered to 139 dogs. Patients received between one and seven doses. One hundred and sixteen treatments were associated with toxicity in 81 patients (50 episodes of lethargy, 49 of diarrhoea, 42 of vomiting, 40 of anorexia, 2 hypersensitivity reactions and 2 suspected extravasations). Thirty‐six (11%) adverse events resulted in hospitalization in 33 (24%) patients, of which 15 were neutropenic and 9 pyrexic. Mean duration of hospitalization was 3.4 days and 33 patients recovered uneventfully. Owners of 11 patients declined further treatment after toxicity occurred. After 25 treatments associated with toxicity, dose reductions reduced toxicity. The use of prophylactic anti‐emetics, gastroprotectants and antibiotics did not reduce the frequency of gastrointestinal toxicity.
Elevated Activation of ERK1 and ERK2 Accompany Enhanced Liver Injury Following Alcohol Binge in Chronically Ethanol‐Fed Rats
Authors: Aroor Annayya R. , Jackson Daniel E. , Shukla Shivendra D.
Published: July 2011

Background:  Binge drinking after chronic ethanol consumption is one of the important factors contributing to the progression of steatosis to steatohepatitis. The molecular mechanisms of this effect remain poorly understood. We have therefore examined in rats the effect of single and repeat ethanol binge superimposed on chronic ethanol intake on liver injury, activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and gene expression.

Methods:  Rats were chronically treated with ethanol in liquid diet for 4 weeks followed by single ethanol binge (5 gm/kg body weight) or 3 similar repeated doses of ethanol. Serum alcohol and alanine amino transferase (ALT) levels were determined by enzymatic methods. Steatosis was assessed by histology and hepatic triglycerides. Activation of MAPK, 90S ribosomal kinase (RSK), and caspase 3 were evaluated by Western blot. Levels of mRNA for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), early growth response‐1 (egr‐1), and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) were measured by real‐time qRT‐PCR.

Results:  Chronic ethanol treatment resulted in mild steatosis and necrosis, whereas chronic ethanol followed by binge group exhibited marked steatosis and significant increase in necrosis. Chronic binge group also showed significant increase (compared with chronic ethanol alone) in the phosphorylation of extracellular regulated kinase 1 (ERK1), ERK2, and RSK. Phosphorylation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK) and p38 MAPK did not increase by the binge. Ethanol binge, after chronic ethanol intake, caused increase in mRNA for egr‐1 and PAI‐1, but not TNFα.

Conclusions:  Chronic ethanol exposure increases the susceptibility of rat liver to increased injury by 1 or 3 repeat binge. Among other alterations, the activated levels of ERK1, and more so ERK2, were remarkably amplified by binge suggesting a role of these isotypes in the binge amplification of the injury. In contrast, p38 MAPK and JNK1/2 activities were not amplified. These binge‐induced changes were also reflected in the increases in the RNA levels for egr‐1 and PAI‐1. This study offers chronic followed by repeat binge as a model for the study of progression of liver injury by ethanol and highlights the involvement of ERK1 and ERK2 isotypes in the amplification of liver injury by binge ethanol.
In vitro variables of apheresis platelets are stably maintained for 7 days with 5% residual plasma in a glucose and bicarbonate salt solution, PAS‐5
Authors: Radwanski Katherine , Wagner Stephen J. , Skripchenko Andrey , Min Kyungyoon
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: Platelet additive solutions (PASs) facilitate improved recovery of plasma and may reduce the severity and/or frequency of plasma‐associated transfusion reactions. Current apheresis platelet (PLT) PAS products contain approximately 30 to 40% residual plasma. In an effort to further decrease the residual plasma, two in vitro studies were conducted with PLTs suspended in 5% plasma and a reformulated PAS‐3, named PAS‐5, that contains additional salts, glucose, and bicarbonate.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: In Study 1, PLTs suspended in 5% plasma/95% PAS‐5 were prepared directly on a separator (Amicus, Fenwal, Inc.) without additional centrifugation or washing. In Study 2, a double unit of hyperconcentrated Amicus PLTs in plasma was collected, divided, and centrifuged to prepare a control unit in 100% plasma and a paired test unit in 5% plasma/95% PAS‐5. The in vitro properties of PLTs were assessed in both studies during 7‐day storage at 20 to 24°C with continuous agitation.

RESULTS: In Study 1, PLT concentration, pH, mean PLT volume (MPV), HCO3‐, pCO2, pO2, lactate dehydrogenase, and hypotonic shock response (HSR) did not significantly change during storage. By Day 7, glucose levels and morphology scores modestly decreased (17.6 and 14.4%, respectively) and lactate levels modestly increased (to 7.2 mmol/L). In Study 2, MPV, pH, glucose, pO2, HSR, and morphology were comparable in control and test PLTs during 7‐day storage. Glucose consumption and lactate production were significantly less in test versus control PLTs (p ≤ 0.0015). Extent of shape change and %CD62P‐positive test PLTs were less than those of controls (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION: Apheresis PLTs suspended in 5% plasma/95% PAS‐5 maintained in vitro properties during 7‐day storage.
Initial experiences with point‐of‐care rapid thrombelastography for management of life‐threatening postinjury coagulopathy
Authors: Kashuk Jeffry L. , Moore Ernest E. , Wohlauer Max , Johnson Jeffrey L. , Pezold Michael , Lawrence Jerry , Biffl Walter L. , Burlew C. Clay Cothren , Barnett Carlton , Sawyer Michael , Sauaia Angela
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND: Massive transfusion (MTP) protocol design is hindered by lack of accurate assessment of coagulation. Rapid thrombelastography (r‐TEG) provides point‐of‐care (POC) analysis of clot formation. We designed a prospective study to test the hypothesis that integrating TEG into our MTP would facilitate goal‐directed therapy and provide equivalent outcomes compared to conventional coagulation testing.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Thiry‐four patients who received more than 6 units of red blood cells (RBCs)/6 hours who were admitted to our Level 1 trauma center after r‐TEG implementation (TEG) were compared to 34 patients admitted prior to TEG implementation (Pre‐TEG). Data are presented as mean ± SEM.

RESULTS: Emergency department pre‐TEG versus TEG shock, and coagulation indices, were not different: systolic blood pressure (94 mmHg vs.101 mmHg), temperature (35.3°C vs. 35.9°C), pH (7.16 vs. 7.11), base deficit (−13.0 vs. −14.7), lactate (6.5 vs. 8.1), international normalized ratio (INR; 1.59 vs. 1.83), and partial thromboplastin time (48.3 vs. 57.9). Although not significant, patients with Injury Severity Score range 26 to 35 were more frequent in the pre‐TEG group. Fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) : RBCs, platelets : RBCs, and cryoprecipitate (cryo) : RBC ratios were not significantly different at 6 or 12 hours. INR at 6 hours did not discriminate between survivors and nonsurvivors (p = 0.10), whereas r‐TEG “G” value was significantly associated with survival (p = 0.03), as was the maximum rate of thrombin generation (MRTG; mm/min) and total thrombin generation (TG; area under the curve) (p = 0.03 for both). Patients with MRTG of more than 9.2 received significantly less components of RBCs, FFP, and cryo (p = 0.048, p = 0.03, and p = 0.04, respectively).

CONCLUSION: Goal‐directed resuscitation via r‐TEG appears useful for management of trauma‐induced coagulopathy. Further experience with POC monitoring could result in more efficient management leading to a reduction of transfusion requirements.
Winning and Competitiveness as Determinants of Political Support*
Authors: Singh Shane , Lago Ignacio , Blais André
Published: July 2011

Objectives. This study examines the impact of competitiveness, winning, and ideological congruence on evaluations of democratic principles, institutions, and performance. We posit that winning matters most. Individuals will hold favorable views toward democracy when it produces the outcomes they desire, independent of other contextual factors associated with elections.

Methods. We use cross‐sectional multiple regression models to analyze survey data from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

Results. We find that the psychological effect of being an election winner at the national level greatly boosts evaluations of democracy, as measured with a host of different indicators, while competitiveness and congruence do not systematically affect these evaluations.

Conclusions. This study sheds light on what factors boost regime support among the populace by sorting out the relative impact of being in a competitive district, winning (at the local and national level), and having a representative with a similar ideological outlook.
Cross‐Border Earnings of U.S. Natives Along the U.S.‐Mexico Border*
Authors: Mora Marie T. , Dávila Alberto
Published: July 2011

Objective. This study explores whether the earnings of U.S.‐born cross‐border workers differ from those of their U.S.‐employed counterparts. We also analyze whether the cross‐border/non‐cross‐border wage differential changed during the 1990s—a decade when U.S.‐Mexico trade intensified and the maquiladora industry expanded.

Methods. Employing decennial U.S. Census data from 1990 and 2000, this article estimates earnings functions and uses wage decomposition analysis to study changes in the earnings of U.S.‐born Hispanic and non‐Hispanic cross‐border workers.

Results. The number of U.S.‐native cross‐border workers, while relatively small, increased significantly between 1990 and 2000, as did their earnings. A closer examination reveals that this cross‐border earnings premium only developed among non‐Hispanics.

Conclusions. These findings indicate that some U.S. natives find lucrative employment opportunities on the Mexican side of the border, which might be diminished by additional restrictions for U.S.‐born residents to easily cross back and forth into Mexico.
Occurrence of Contamination by Controlled Substances in Euro Banknotes from the Spanish Archipelago of the Canary Islands
Authors: Luzardo Octavio P. , Almeida Maira , Zumbado Manuel , Boada Luis D.
Published: July 2011

Abstract:  The social problems of drug abuse are a matter of increasing global problem. Nowadays, international agencies need fresh methods to monitor trends of the use of illicit drugs. In this sense, small amounts of drugs are transferred to banknotes and they could be detected and quantified. An analytical procedure based upon extraction with organic solvent, liquid chromatography separation, and mass spectrometric detection allowed the identification of 21 drugs and metabolites in 120 used Euro banknotes collected in the Canary Islands (Spain). Most of the banknotes analyzed showed detectable drug residues (92.5%). Cocaine was the most frequently detected drug, present in approximately 90% of the samples. In addition, 75%, 35%, and 15% of the banknotes showed residues of amphetamine derivatives, opiates, and benzodiazepines, respectively. An average of three drug residues per banknote was detected. In summary, the presence of drug residues in banknotes could be useful as tracer for drugs prevalence.
Further reliability and responsiveness of the Chronic Oral Mucosal Diseases Questionnaire
Authors: Ni Riordain R , McCreary C
Published: July 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 18, 60–66

Objective:  To test the reliability and responsiveness of the Chronic Oral Mucosal Diseases Questionnaire (COMDQ), in measuring the quality of life (QofL) in patients with chronic oral mucosal conditions.

Methods:  A random sample of 160 patients with the following chronic oral mucosal conditions, recurrent aphthous stomatitis, oral lichen planus, the more common vesiculobullous conditions (mucous membrane pemphigoid and pemphigus vulgaris) and orofacial granulomatosis received a copy of the COMDQ. A subset of 100 patients received the questionnaire on two further occasions, 2 weeks and 3 months later. Statistical tests were carried out to evaluate the test–retest reliability and responsiveness of this instrument.

Results:  This study has demonstrated that the COMDQ has good test–retest reliability with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.81 and is responsive to changes in the patients’ overall conditions.

Conclusion:  In conclusion, this study has further demonstrated the reliability and responsiveness of the COMDQ in assessing QofL in patients with chronic oral mucosal diseases.
SOX11 target genes: implications for neurogenesis and neuropsychiatric illness
Authors: Sha Li , Kitchen Rob , Porteous David , Blackwood Douglas , Muir Walter , Pickard Benjamin
Published: July 2011

Objective:Deficits in adult and embryonic neurogenesis have been linked with neurological and psychiatric disorders, so it is important to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying this process. SOX11 is a transcription factor known to play a critical role in the regulation of the neuronal and glial differentiation stage of neurogenesis, so we hypothesised that the identification of its target genes would reveal underlying biological processes relevant to disease.

Methods:SOX11 protein was over-expressed in HEK293 cells and transcriptional changes assessed by microarray analysis. Selected candidate genes were further tested for SOX11 activation in quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR studies of HEK293 cells and Western analysis of SH-SY5Y cells.

Results:Regulated genes included a previously established SOX11 target, known markers of neurogenesis, as well as several genes implicated in neuropsychiatric disorders. Immunofluorescence localised several of the genes within the proliferative subgranular zone of the hippocampus. We observed multiple histone and zinc finger genes regulated by SOX11, many of which were located in two clusters on chromosomes 6 and 19. The chromosome 6 cluster lies within a region of the genome showing the strongest genetic association with schizophrenia.

Conclusion:SOX11 appears to regulate a complex programme of chromatin remodelling and downstream gene expression changes to achieve a mature neuronal phenotype. SOX11 target genes are shown to be involved in neurodevelopmental processes important in health and, potentially, disease.
Increased susceptibility of mitochondria isolated from frontal cortex and hippocampus of vitamin A-treated rats to non-aggregated amyloid-β peptides 1–40 and 1–42
Authors: de Oliveira Marcos R. , da Rocha Ricardo F. , Moreira José C. F.
Published: July 2011

Objective: Vitamin A is a redox-active molecule and its inadvertent utilisation as a preventive therapy against ageing or neurodegeneration has become a harmful habit among humans at different ages. Mitochondrial dysfunction and redox impairment may be induced by vitamin A supplementation experimentally. Nonetheless, it is still not clear by which mechanisms vitamin A elicits such effects. Then, we performed this investigation to analyse whether mitochondria isolated from frontal cortex and hippocampus of vitamin A-treated rats are more sensitive to a challenge with amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides 1–40 or 1–42.

Methods: Adult Wistar rats received vitamin A at 1000–9000 IU/kg/day orally for 28 days. Then, mitochondria were isolated and the challenge with Aβ peptides 1–40 or 1–42 (at 0.2 or 0.1 μM, respectively) for 10 min was carried out before mitochondrial electron transfer chain enzyme activity, superoxide anion radical (O2−•) production and 3-nitrotyrosine content quantification.

Results: Mitochondria obtained from vitamin A-treated rats are more sensitive to Aβ peptides 1–40 or 1–42 than mitochondria isolated from the control group, as decreased mitochondrial complex enzyme activity and increased O2−• production and 3-nitrotyrosine content were observed in incubated mitochondria isolated from vitamin A-treated rats.

Conclusion: These data suggest that oral intake of vitamin A at clinical doses increases the susceptibility of mitochondria to a neurotoxic agent even at low concentrations.
Acculturative type is associated with breastfeeding duration among low‐income Latinas
Authors: Chapman Donna J. , Pérez‐Escamilla Rafael
Published: July 2011

We sought to assess the relationship between acculturative type and breastfeeding outcomes among low‐income Latinas, utilising a multidimensional assessment of acculturation. We analysed data derived from a breastfeeding peer counselling randomised trial. Acculturation was assessed during pregnancy using a modified Acculturation Rating Scale for Mexican Americans scale. Analyses were restricted to Latinas who completed the acculturation scale and had post‐partum breastfeeding data (n = 114). Cox survival analyses were conducted to evaluate differences in breastfeeding continuation and exclusivity by acculturative type. Participants were classified as integrated‐high (23.7%, n = 27), traditional Hispanic (36.8%, n = 42), integrated‐low (12.3%, n = 14) and assimilated (27.2%, n = 31). The integrated‐low group was significantly more likely to continue breastfeeding than the traditional Hispanic, assimilated, and integrated‐high groups (P < 0.05, P < 0.05, and P < 0.01, respectively). The traditional Hispanic group was marginally more likely to continue breastfeeding than the integrated‐high group (P = 0.06). Breastfeeding continuation rates vary significantly between acculturative types in this multinational, low‐income Latina sample. Multidimensional assessments of acculturation may prove useful in better tailoring future breastfeeding promotion interventions.
Practical Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Bergenin Analogs
Authors: Jung Jae‐Chul , Lim Eunyoung , Kim Seung Hwan , Kim Nam Soo , Jung Mankil , Oh Seikwan
Published: July 2011

Here, we describe the practical synthesis and biological properties of bergenin and its structural analogs. Synthetic bergenin compounds were prepared by acylation of bergenin. These compounds were then evaluated for suppression of lipopolysaccharide‐induced nitric oxide (NO) generation in cultured cells and anti‐narcotic effects on morphine‐dependent mice. We found that bergenin derivatives showed potent anti‐inflammatory activity (suppression of NO generation) at concentrations ranging from 20 to 30 μmin vitro, and bergenin derivatives (10–20 mg/kg) exhibited significant anti‐narcotic effects on morphine dependence in mice. These results suggest the potential utility of bergenin and its analogs as anti‐narcotic agents and the design of more potent anti‐inflammatory compounds.
A Disalicylic Acid‐Furanyl Derivative Inhibits Ephrin Binding to a Subset of Eph Receptors
Authors: Noberini Roberta , De Surya K. , Zhang Ziming , Wu Bainan , Raveendra‐Panickar Dhanya , Chen Vida , Vazquez Jesus , Qin Haina , Song Jianxing , Cosford Nicholas D. P. , Pellecchia Maurizio , Pasquale Elena B.
Published: July 2011

Eph receptor tyrosine kinases and ephrin ligands control many physiological and pathological processes, and molecules interfering with their interaction are useful probes to elucidate their complex biological functions. Moreover, targeting Eph receptors might enable new strategies to inhibit cancer progression and pathological angiogenesis as well as promote nerve regeneration. Because our previous work suggested the importance of the salicylic acid group in antagonistic small molecules targeting Eph receptors, we screened a series of salicylic acid derivatives to identify novel Eph receptor antagonists. This identified a disalicylic acid‐furanyl derivative that inhibits ephrin‐A5 binding to EphA4 with an IC50 of 3 μm in ELISAs. This compound, which appears to bind to the ephrin‐binding pocket of EphA4, also targets several other Eph receptors. Furthermore, it inhibits EphA2 and EphA4 tyrosine phosphorylation in cells stimulated with ephrin while not affecting phosphorylation of EphB2, which is not a target receptor. In endothelial cells, the disalicylic acid‐furanyl derivative inhibits EphA2 phosphorylation in response to TNFα and capillary‐like tube formation on Matrigel, two effects that depend on EphA2 interaction with endogenous ephrin‐A1. These findings suggest that salicylic acid derivatives could be used as starting points to design new small molecule antagonists of Eph receptors.
Attenuated relationship between cardiac output and oxygen uptake during high‐intensity exercise
Authors: Trinity J. D. , Lee J. F. , Pahnke M. D. , Beck K. C. , Coyle E. F.
Published: July 2011

Aim:  Recent findings have challenged the belief that the cardiac output (CO) and oxygen consumption (VO2) relationship is linear from rest to maximal exercise. The purpose of this study was to determine the CO and stroke volume (SV) response to a range of exercise intensities, 40–100% of VO2max, during cycling.

Methods:  Ten well‐trained cyclists performed a series of discontinuous exercise bouts to determine the CO and SV vs. VO2 responses.

Results:  The rate of increase in CO, relative to VO2, during exercise from 40 to 70% of VO2max was 4.4 ± 1.4 L L−1. During exercise at 70–100% of VO2max, the rate of increase in CO was reduced to 2.1 ± 0.9 L L−1 (P = 0.01). Stroke volume during exercise at 80–100% of VO2max was reduced by 7% when compared to exercise at 50–70% of VO2max (134 ± 5 vs. 143 ± 5 mL per beat, P = 0.02). Whole body arterial‐venous O2 difference increased significantly as intensity increased.

Conclusion:  The observation that the rate of increase in CO is reduced as exercise intensity increases suggests that cardiovascular performance displays signs of compromised function before maximal VO2 is reached.
A Hand‐held Fiber‐optic Implement for the Site‐specific Delivery of Photosensitizer and Singlet Oxygen
Authors: Mahendran Adaickapillai , Kopkalli Yasemin , Ghosh Goutam , Ghogare Ashwini , Minnis Mihaela , Kruft Bonnie I. , Zamadar Matibur , Aebisher David , Davenport Lesley , Greer Alexander
Published: July 2011

We have constructed a fiber optic device that internally flows triplet oxygen and externally produces singlet oxygen, causing a reaction at the (Z)‐1,2‐dialkoxyethene spacer group, freeing a pheophorbide sensitizer upon the fragmentation of a reactive dioxetane intermediate. The device can be operated and sensitizer photorelease observed using absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy. We demonstrate the preference of sensitizer photorelease when the probe tip is in contact with octanol or lipophilic media. A first‐order photocleavage rate constant of 1.13 h−1 was measured in octanol where dye desorption was not accompanied by readsorption. When the probe tip contacts aqueous solution, the photorelease was inefficient because most of the dye adsorbed on the probe tip, even after the covalent ethene spacer bonds have been broken. The observed stability of the free sensitizer in lipophilic media is reasonable even though it is a pyropheophorbide‐a derivative that carries a p‐formylbenzylic alcohol substituent at the carboxylic acid group. In octanol or lipid systems, we found that the dye was not susceptible to hydrolysis to pyropheophorbide‐a, otherwise a pH effect was observed in a binary methanol‐water system (9:1) at pH below 2 or above 8.
Design of a Coupled Bioluminescent Assay for a Recombinant Pyruvate Kinase from a Thermophilic Geobacillus
Authors: Mohammadi Soheila , Nikkhah Maryam , Nazari Mahboobeh , Hosseinkhani Saman
Published: July 2011

A simple and rapid method using coupled bioluminescent assay was developed to determine level of ADP. ADP is involved in many biological reactions and ADP assay can be used for assaying some reactions universally by monitoring ADP formation or depletion. ADP analysis involves incubation of ADP or extracts containing ADP with pyruvate kinase (PK) and PEP. The ATP formed by this reaction is determined by measuring the intensity of the initial light flash produced when luciferin‐luciferase preparation injected into the reaction mixture. In regard to the main role of the PK in this assay, the gene of PK from a Geobacillus species has been cloned in expression vector pET28a (+), sequenced and overexpressed in Escherichia coli. Recombinant protein was purified using Ni‐NTA column and then the purified PK was used in a coupled bioluminescent assay for ADP measurement. Kinetic properties of PK are determined according to a bioluminescent assay using firefly luciferase.