bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiple Lesions of Cutaneous Focal Mucinosis in a Teenager
Authors: Hernandez Claudia , Fowler Ashley , Gandhi Mona Y.
Published: November 2007

A 19‐year‐old Hispanic woman presented to our clinic with a chief complaint of multiple pink papules on her face (Figure 1). The lesions were asymptomatic, had appeared several years before her consultation, and had remained stable in size. Similar lesions on her trunk and extremities had spontaneously resolved before presentation. She had no significant medical history and was not on any medications. Cutaneous examination was remarkable for a few scattered, well‐demarcated, slightly raised pink papules and plaques with no scale, ranging from 0.5 to 1 cm in diameter. The lesions were distributed on the right cheek, right temple, left lower eyelid, and neck area. The rest of the cutaneous examination was unremarkable. A punch biopsy was performed from a lesion near the left premandibular area. Hematoxylin and eosin staining of the biopsy specimen revealed superficial perivascular dermatitis with a slight increase in the number of fibroblasts (Figure 2). Colloidal iron staining was diffusely positive with replacement of collagen with mucinous material in the dermal layer (Figure 3). Laboratory values for a complete blood cell count, metabolic panel, serum protein electrophoresis, urine protein electrophoresis, thyroid‐stimulating hormone, and antinuclear antibody were within normal limits. The patient was diagnosed with cutaneous focal mucinosis. Because of cosmetic concerns, the patient declined surgical excision and intralesional corticosteroid injections. A 4‐month trial of topical tacrolimus 0.1% ointment was ineffective.

Several pink plaques are seen in the premandibular area.

image

Superficial subacute perivascular dermatitis with a slight increase in the number of fibroblasts (hematoxylin‐eosin stain, original magnification ×20).

image

Colloidal iron staining was diffusely positive with mucinous material replacing dermal collagen (original magnification ×20).

image
EEG abnormalities and 3‐year outcome in first episode psychosis
Authors: Manchanda R. , Norman R. , Malla A. , Harricharan R. , Northcott S.
Published: November 2007

Objective:  This study assesses the relationship of EEG to several aspects of 3 year symptomatic and functional outcome in first episode psychosis.

Method:  A total of 117 patients with first episode psychosis had their baseline EEG classified by modified Mayo Clinic criteria as normal, essentially normal or dysrhythmia. Socio‐demographic variables, duration of illness and of untreated psychosis and premorbid adjustment were also recorded. Positive and negative symptoms of psychoses, depression, anxiety and global functioning were rated on entry and after 3 years of treatment.

Results:  Patients with a dysrhythmic EEG at entry into treatment showed significantly greater persistence in both positive and negative symptoms of psychoses as well as anxiety and depression over 3 years. These findings were independent of duration of untreated illness or premorbid adjustment.

Conclusion:  An abnormal baseline EEG in patients with first episode psychosis is associated with a poorer symptomatic outcome at 3‐year follow‐up.
Are patients with somatization disorder highly suggestible?
Authors: Brown R. J. , Schrag A. , Krishnamoorthy E. , Trimble M. R.
Published: November 2007

Objective:  High suggestibility is widely regarded as an important feature of patients with medically unexplained symptoms (MUS), particularly those with multiple MUS [i.e. somatization disorder (SD)], although there are few empirical data attesting to this assumption. A study was therefore conducted to compare levels of non‐hypnotic suggestibility in patients with SD and medical controls.

Method:  A modified version of the Barber Suggestibility Scale was administered to 19 patients with SD and 17 controls with an established organic dystonia.

Results:  Patients with SD were no more suggestible than control patients. Dystonia controls were more likely to deliberately comply with suggestions than the SD patients.

Conclusion:  Contrary to popular belief, high suggestibility is not necessarily a feature of SD.
Validation of daily increment formation and the effects of different temperatures and feeding regimes on short‐term otolith growth in Australian smelt Retropinna semoni
Authors: Tonkin Z. , King A. J. , Robertson A.
Published: November 2007

Abstract –  To aid otolith interpretation of wild fish, we conducted a laboratory study using metalarval Australian smelt (Retropinna semoni) collected from the Murray River, to examine daily increment deposition and the effects of different temperatures and feeding regimes on otolith growth. Daily increment deposition was confirmed by comparing the number of increments from an oxytetracycline mark with the known number of days from marking. After holding fish at two temperature levels and three feeding rates, both food density and temperature were found to have a significant effect on otolith growth, with food density having the greatest influence. Overall trends in final lengths and condition of fish were well represented by recent otolith growth. The results of the experiment have implications for estimating growth histories and its relationship to various environmental conditions.
The 120 kDa cell‐binding fragment of fibronectin up‐regulates migration of αvβ6‐expressing cells by increasing matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and ‐9 secretion
Authors: Al‐Hazmi Nadia , Thomas Gareth J. , Speight Paul M. , Whawell Simon A.
Published: November 2007

Changes in the extracellular matrix, integrin expression, and protease secretion occur in wound healing and cancer and these systems are thought to play a crucial role in such processes. In this study, experiments were performed to examine the interaction of epithelial cells with the 120 kDa cell‐binding fibronectin fragment. Cell migration was significantly increased in response to the 120 kDa fragment when compared with the full‐length molecule, but only in cells overexpressing the beta‐6 integrin (VB6). This involved the up‐regulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) 2 and 9, the levels of which are increased in the supernatant from VB6 cells plated on the 120 kDa fragment. Inhibition of MMP activity with both tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐1 (TIMP‐1) and a chemical inhibitor (Ro32‐3580) resulted in a significant reduction in migration on the fibronectin fragment. In vitro this fragment can be generated by incubating full‐length fibronectin with purified MMP‐9.Expression of the β6 integrin subunit, which is only seen in wound healing and cancer, enhances the motility of and MMP secretion by epithelial cells in response to the 120 kDa fibronectin fragment. These enzymes can then further degrade fibronectin to generate additional fragments, leading to the creation of a positive feedback loop, which may be of significance in disease processes.
Tooth movement characteristics in relation to root resorption in young and adult rats
Authors: Ren Yijin , Maltha Jaap C. , Kuijpers‐Jagtman Anne Marie
Published: November 2007

The aim of this study was to investigate tooth movement characteristics in relation to root resorption in young and adult rats. Two groups of 30 rats each (aged 6 wk and 9–12 months, respectively) were used. Standardized orthodontic appliances were placed to move the maxillary molars mesially. Animals were killed 1, 2, 4, 8, and 12 wk after the beginning of the experiment and their jaws were processed for histomorphometric analysis. In parasagittal sections of ‘pressure zones’ the extent of root resorption was measured and expressed as percentage of total root length. Whereas a negative correlation was found between the velocity of tooth movement and the extent of root resorption, a positive correlation was noted between the amount/duration of tooth movement and root resorption, but only in adult rats. The duration of tooth movement showed the highest correlation coefficient and the smallest 95% confidence interval. In younger animals, correlations were weak, and other factors are likely to be involved in the individual susceptibility to root resorption.
Approximal caries development in surfaces in contact with fluoride‐releasing and non‐fluoride‐releasing restorative materials: an in situ study
Authors: Lennon Áine M. , Wiegand Annette , Buchalla Wolfgang , Attin Thomas
Published: November 2007

This study investigated the effect of compomer on initial interproximal caries development. One‐hundred and sixty cylindrical, and 40 semispherical, bovine enamel samples (control) were prepared, polished, and sterilized. Sixty semicircular samples were prepared from each of the compomer Dyract eXtra and the fluoride‐free composite Spectrum TPH. Samples were stored in water and fluoridated twice daily for 28 d. A baseline quantitative light fluorescence (QLF) image was made of each cylindrical sample. Twenty volunteers received intra‐oral appliances with eight sample chambers. Each wing contained 1 control sample and either 3 Dyract eXtra or 3 Spectrum TPH samples in contact with the enamel surface of a cylindrical enamel sample. Appliances were worn for 24 h a day for 28 d except during toothbrushing (twice daily) and placement in 10% sucrose solution (five times daily). A final QLF image was made after 28 d. Caries development was analyzed as the lesion area × mean fluorescence loss (ΔQ % mm2) between these and the baseline images using QLF subtract software. The median ΔQ was significantly lower in the Dyract eXtra group (−6.1% mm2) than in the Spectrum TPH (−13.9% mm2, P ≤ 0.001) or control (−11.4% mm2, P = 0.03) groups. Teeth in contact with the compomer developed less caries compared with controls.
Functional reconstitution of mammalian ‘chloride intracellular channels’ CLIC1, CLIC4 and CLIC5 reveals differential regulation by cytoskeletal actin
Authors: Singh H. , Cousin M. A. , Ashley R. H.
Published: November 2007

Chloride intracellular channels (CLICs) are soluble, signal peptide‐less proteins that are distantly related to Ω‐type glutathione‐S‐transferases. Although some CLICs bypass the classical secretory pathway and autoinsert into cell membranes to form ion channels, their cellular roles remain unclear. Many CLICs are strongly associated with cytoskeletal proteins, but the role of these associations is not known. In this study, we incorporated purified, recombinant mammalian CLIC1, CLIC4 and (for the first time) CLIC5 into planar lipid bilayers, and tested the hypothesis that the channels are regulated by actin. CLIC5 formed multiconductance channels that were almost equally permeable to Na+, K+ and Cl–, suggesting that the ‘CLIC’ nomenclature may need to be revised. CLIC1 and CLIC5, but not CLIC4, were strongly and reversibly inhibited (or inactivated) by ‘cytosolic’ F‐actin in the absence of any other protein. This inhibition effect on channels could be reversed by using cytochalasin to disrupt the F‐actin. We suggest that actin‐regulated membrane CLICs could modify solute transport at key stages during cellular events such as apoptosis, cell and organelle division and fusion, cell‐volume regulation, and cell movement.
Inhibition of amyloid fibrillation of lysozyme by indole derivatives − possible mechanism of action
Authors: Morshedi Dina , Rezaei‐Ghaleh Nasrollah , Ebrahim‐Habibi Azadeh , Ahmadian Shahin , Nemat‐Gorgani Mohsen
Published: November 2007

Amyloid aggregation of polypeptides is related to a growing number of pathologic states known as amyloid disorders. There is a great deal of interest in developing small molecule inhibitors of the amyloidogenic processes. In the present article, the inhibitory effects of some indole derivatives on amyloid fibrillation of hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) are reported. Acidic pH and high temperatures were used to drive HEWL towards amyloid formation. A variety of techniques, ranging from thioflavin T fluorescence and Congo red absorbance assays to far‐UV CD and transmission electron microscopy, were employed to characterize the HEWL fibrillation process. Among the indole derivatives tested, indole 3‐acetic acid, indole 3‐carbinol and tryptophol had the most inhibitory effects on amyloid formation, indole and indole 3‐propionic acid gave some inhibition, and indole aldehyde and tryptophan showed no significant inhibition. Although indoles did not protect the HEWL native state from conformational changes, they were effective in diminishing HEWL amyloid fibril formation, delaying both the nucleation and elongation phases. Disaggregation of previously formed HEWL amyloid fibrils was also enhanced by indole 3‐acetic acid. Various medium conditions, such as the presence of different anions and alcoholic cosolvents, were explored to gain an insight into possible mechanisms. These observations, taken together, suggest that the indole ring is likely to play the main role in inhibition and that the side chain hydroxyl group may contribute positively, in contrast to the side chain carbonyl and intervening methylene groups.
Effect of annealing time of an ice crystal on the activity of type III antifreeze protein
Authors: Takamichi Manabu , Nishimiya Yoshiyuki , Miura Ai , Tsuda Sakae
Published: November 2007

Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) possess a unique ability to bind to a seed ice crystal to inhibit its growth. The strength of this binding has been evaluated by thermal hysteresis (TH). In this study, we examined the dependence of TH on experimental parameters, including cooling rate, annealing time, annealing temperature and the size of the seed ice crystal for an isoform of type III AFP from notched‐fin eelpout (nfeAFP8). TH of nfeAFP8 dramatically decreased when using a fast cooling rate (0.20 °C·min−1). It also decreased with increasing seed crystal size under a slow cooling rate (0.01 °C·min−1), but such dependence was not detected under the fast cooling rate. TH was enhanced 1.4‐ and 2.5‐fold when ice crystals were annealed for 3 h at 0.05 and 0.25 °C below Tm, respectively. After annealing for 2 h at 0.25 °C below Tm, TH activity showed marked dependence on the size of ice crystals. These results suggest that annealing of an ice crystal for 2–3 h significantly increased the TH value of type III AFP. Based on a proposed adsorption–inhibition model, we assume that type III AFP undergoes additional ice binding to the convex ice front over a 2–3 h time scale, which results in the TH dependence on the annealing time.
Changes in specific lipids regulate BAX‐induced mitochondrial permeability transition
Authors: Martínez‐Abundis E. , García N. , Correa F. , Franco M. , Zazueta C.
Published: November 2007

Recent evidence suggests the existence of lipid microdomains in mitochondria, apparently coexisting as structural elements with some of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore‐forming proteins and members of the Bcl‐2 family. The aim of this study was to investigate the relevance of the main components of membrane microdomains (e.g. cholesterol and sphingolipids) in activation of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) by recombinant BAX (rBAX). For this purpose, we used chemically modified renal cortex mitochondria and renal cortex mitochondria from hypothyroid rats that show a modified mitochondrial lipid composition in vivo. Oligomeric rBAX induced an enhanced permeability conformation in the mPTP of control mitochondria. rBAX failed to induce mPTP opening when the cholesterol and ganglioside content of mitochondria were modified with the chelator methyl‐beta‐cyclodextrin. Accordingly, hypothyroid mitochondria, with endogenously lower cholesterol and ganglioside content, showed resistance to mPTP opening induced by rBAX. These observations suggest that enriched cholesterol and ganglioside domains in the mitochondrial membranes may determine BAX interaction with the mPTP. An intriguing observation was that chemical extraction of cholesterol and ganglioside in control mitochondria did not have an effect on rBAX insertion. Conversely, in hypothyroid mitochondria, rBAX insertion was diminished dramatically compared with control mitochondria. The membrane and protein changes associated with thyroid status and their possible role in rBAX docking into the membranes are discussed.
Human mitochondrial transcription factor A possesses multiple subcellular targeting signals
Authors: Pastukh Viktoriya , Shokolenko Inna , Wang Bin , Wilson Glenn , Alexeyev Mikhail
Published: November 2007

The mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) is a member of a high‐mobility group (HMG) family represented mostly by nuclear proteins. Although nuclear localization of TFAM has been demonstrated in some tumors and after treatment of tumor cells with anticancer drugs, the significance of these observations has not been fully elucidated. Here we report that both TFAM overexpression and impairment of its mitochondrial targeting can result in nuclear accumulation of the protein. Both M1 and M7 methionines of human TFAM (hTFAM) can be used for translation initiation with almost equal efficiency resulting in two polypeptides. The shorter polypeptide, however, is not located in the nucleus, despite truncation in the mitochondrial targeting sequence, and both isoforms are targeted to mitochondria with similar efficiency. We further demonstrate that nuclear TFAM confers significant cytoprotection against the chemotherapeutic drugs etoposide, camptothecin, and cisplatin. Three regions of hTFAM [HMG‐like domain 1 (HMG1) and HMG‐like domain 2 (HMG2), as well as the tail region] can effect nuclear accumulation of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) fusions. The HMG1 domain contains a bipartite nuclear localization sequence whose identity is supported by site‐directed mutagenesis. However, this bipartite nuclear localization sequence is weak, and both N‐terminal and C‐terminal flanking sequences enhance the nuclear targeting of EGFP. Finally, several mutations in the HMG1 domain increased the mitochondrial targeting of the EGFP fusions, suggesting that the mitochondrial targeting sequence of hTFAM may extend beyond the cleavable presequence.
FSR 0190: another old distant Galactic cluster
Authors: Froebrich D. , Meusinger H. , Davis C. J.
Published: November 2007

We are conducting a large programme to classify newly discovered Milky Way star cluster candidates from Froebrich et al. Here we present near-infrared follow-up observations of FSR 0190 (, J2000). The cluster is situated close to the Galactic plane . It shows a circular shape, and a relatively large number of core helium burning stars – which clearly distinguishes the cluster from the rich field – but no centrally condensed star density profile. We derive an age of more than 7 Gyr, a Galactocentric distance of 10.5 kpc, a distance of 10 kpc from the Sun, and an extinction of AK= 0.8 mag. The estimated mass is at least of the order of 105 M⊙, and the absolute brightness is MV≤−4.7 mag; both are rather typical properties for Palomar-type globular clusters.
Effect of Intensification on Grow Out of the Amazon River Prawn, Macrobrachium amazonicum
Authors: Moraes‐Valenti Patricia M. C. , Valenti Wagner C.
Published: November 2007

The effects of intensification on growth, survival, productivity, population structure, and distribution of harvested biomass in individual size classes of Macrobrachium amazonicum in semi‐intensive culture were evaluated. Postlarvae (0.01 g) were stocked in 12 ponds at densities of 10, 20, 40, and 80/m2 (three replicates per treatment) and raised for 5.5 mo. Average individual weight significantly decreased and productivity significantly increased as stocking density increased (P < 0.001), while survival was not affected (P > 0.05). Prawn mean weight at harvest ranged from 3.6 (80/m2) to 7.0 g (10/m2). Average survival ranged from 65.5% (40/m2) to 72.8% (20/m2), while productivity ranged from 508 (10/m2) to 2051 kg/ha (80/m2). Harvested biomass showed a clear bimodal distribution in individual size classes indicating the occurrence of heterogeneous growth, which may affect management and market strategies. Harvested biomass of prawns weighing more than 7 g (the best market size) increases for stocking densities up to 40/m2 and stabilizes between 40 and 80/m2. Growth reduction was associated with a decreasing frequency and average weight of green claw 1 and green claw 2 male morphotypes and adult females as density increased. Thus, the distribution of male morphotypes and sexually mature females are affected by density‐dependent factors. Results suggest that prawn density plays an important role on M. amazonicum grow‐out phase, as has been demonstrated for other species of the genus Macrobrachium. M. amazonicum tolerates grow‐out intensification and may be raised in both semi‐intensive and intensive systems stocked at very high densities yielding high productivity.
Quality control of bone marrow cytology; organization and over 7 years experience in the south‐west Netherlands
Authors: ERMENS A. A. M. , VAN LOM K. , VAN‘T VEER M. B. , BIKKER G.
Published: November 2007

To asses the quality of bone marrow cytology of hospital laboratories in the south‐west Netherlands a proficiency testing program was implemented. Two sets of bone marrow and blood smears from two patients were sent to 20 hospital laboratories using a tight time schedule biannually. Required results consisted of differential counts of 500 bone marrow cells and 100 peripheral blood cells, together with the description of morphological abnormalities and final conclusions. Twice a year the collected review data were discussed in a plenary session which was also used for continuous education. Over the past 7 years 30 bone marrow samples were evaluated. The coefficient of variations of specific cells counts was large. The amount of correct conclusions ranged from 12% to 100% (median: 61%). Participant attendance of the meetings was 90–100%. The total cost of this scheme of proficiency testing approximately amounted €7000 per year. The presented formulae for both proficiency testing and haematopathological/cytological education is feasible and fulfilled the need of the participants.
On the
Transient Analysis of a V-Shaped Microgrooved Heat
Pipe
Authors: Suman Balram , Hoda Nazish
Published: November 2007

In this paper, we present a transient mathematical model for a V-shaped microgrooved heat pipe considering the temporal variations in the fluid flow, and heat and mass transfer, and utilizing a macroscopic approach. Unlike other heat pipe models, the shear stress at the liquid-vapor interface and the disjoining pressure have been used in the momentum balance equation of the model. The sensible heat used by the substrate is also taken into account using a pseudo-lump capacity model. The coupled nonlinear partial differential equations governing the transient fluid flow, heat and mass transfer have been solved numerically. The transient and steady-state profiles for the radius of curvature, liquid and vapor velocity, liquid pressure, and substrate temperature have been obtained. The mathematical model is capable of predicting the time required for the onset of dry out at the hot end, and for a micro heat pipe to reach steady state. The time required to reach steady state is independent of heat input, heat pipe inclination, groove angle, and Qss profile. However, the time required for the onset of dry out at the hot end decreases with increasing heat input, inclination, and groove angle. The model predicted results have been successfully compared to the results from the literature. The general nature of this model and the associated study can be useful for many practical applications in the microscale heat exchange.
Relativistic dynamics of the deuteron: An estimate of the nuclear force parameters
Authors: Sigalotti L. Di G. , Mejias A.
Published: November 2007

A relativistic dynamical model of the deuteron nucleus is presented. The neutron and proton are assumed to interact via a short-range Yukawa interaction of strength g2. A close parallel between the Bohr model of the hydrogen atom and the deuteron nucleus is established by quantizing the angular momentum for the Yukawa interaction in the same way that is done for the Coulomb interaction. The measured value of the deuteron binding energy for circular orbits is used to calculate the coupling constant g2, the tangential velocity of the component nucleons, and their separation. The results compare favorably with those obtained employing more sophisticated methods. By using the experimentally known root-mean-square radius of the electric charge of the deuteron, the model is also used to estimate the mean radius of the proton. The model highlights many important features of the nuclear force from basic principles.
Arthur Compton’s 1941 Report on explosive fission of U-235: A look at the physics
Authors: Reed B. Cameron
Published: November 2007

In November 1941, the third of three reports on atomic fission commissioned by Vannevar Bush through the National Academy of Sciences examined the prospects for explosive fission in U-235. This report, prepared by Arthur Compton, developed a model for estimating the critical mass and efficiency of an atomic bomb. I examine Compton’s physics, attempt to discern the provenance of the numbers he adopted for various parameters, and compare his results with those yielded by a full diffusion-theory approach with contemporary values for the fission parameters. I conclude that Compton’s physics is sound. A combination of somewhat optimistic parameter values and a conservative model for critical mass lead him to a numerical value for the bare critical radius of U-235 that is in fairly good accord with that yielded by diffusion theory. His estimated efficiency proved to be quite accurate for the Little Boy bomb.
Pharmacokinetics of Antiretroviral Regimens Containing Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate and Atazanavir-Ritonavir in Adolescents and Young Adults with Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Kiser Jennifer J. , Fletcher Courtney V. , Flynn Patricia M. , Cunningham Coleen K. , Wilson Craig M. , Kapogiannis Bill G. , Major-Wilson Hanna , Viani Rolando M. , Liu Nancy X. , Muenz Larry R. , Harris D. Robert , Havens Peter L.
Published: November 2007

The primary objective of this study was to measure atazanavir-ritonavir and tenofovir pharmacokinetics when the drugs were used in combination in young adults with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV-infected subjects ≥18 to <25 years old receiving (≥28 days) 300/100 mg atazanavir-ritonavir plus 300 mg tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) plus one or more other nucleoside analogs underwent intensive 24-h pharmacokinetic studies following a light meal. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were obtained at 1, 4, and 24 h postdose for quantification of intracellular tenofovir diphosphate (TFV-DP) concentrations. Twenty-two subjects were eligible for analyses. The geometric mean (95% confidence interval [CI]) atazanavir area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 24 h (AUC0-24), maximum concentration of drug in serum (Cmax), concentration at 24 h postdose (C24), and total apparent oral clearance (CL/F) values were 35,971 ng·hr/ml (30,853 to 41,898), 3,504 ng/ml (2,978 to 4,105), 578 ng/ml (474 to 704), and 8.3 liter/hr (7.2 to 9.7), respectively. The geometric mean (95% CI) tenofovir AUC0-24,Cmax,C24, and CL/Fvalues were 2,762 ng·hr/ml (2,392 to 3,041), 254 ng/ml (221 to 292), 60 ng/ml (52 to 68), and 49.2 liter/hr (43.8 to 55.3), respectively. Body weight was significantly predictive of CL/Ffor all three drugs. For every 10-kg increase in weight, there was a 10%, 14.8%, and 6.8% increase in the atazanavir, ritonavir, and tenofovir CL/F, respectively (P≤ 0.01). Renal function was predictive of tenofovir CL/F. For every 10 ml/min increase in creatinine clearance, there was a 4.6% increase in tenofovir CL/F(P< 0.0001). The geometric mean (95% CI) TFV-DP concentrations at 1, 4, and 24 h postdose were 96.4 (71.5 to 130), 93.3 (68 to 130), and 92.7 (70 to 123) fmol/million cells. There was an association between renal function, tenofovir AUC, and tenofovirCmaxand intracellular TFV-DP concentrations, although none of these associations reached statistical significance. In these HIV-infected young adults treated with atazanavir-ritonavir plus TDF, the atazanavir AUC was similar to those of older adults treated with the combination. Based on data for healthy volunteers, a higher tenofovir AUC may have been expected, but was not seen in these subjects. This might be due to faster tenofovir CL/Fbecause of higher creatinine clearance in this age group. Additional studies of the exposure-response relationships of this regimen in children, adolescents, and adults would advance our knowledge of its pharmacodynamic properties.
Salmonella
Genomic Island 1 (SGI1), Variant SGI1-I, and New Variant SGI1-O in
Proteus mirabilis
Clinical and Food Isolates from China
Authors: Boyd David A. , Shi Xiaolu , Hu Qing-hua , Ng Lai King , Doublet Benoit , Cloeckaert Axel , Mulvey Michael R.
Published: November 2007

Salmonella
genomic island 1 (SGI1) and variants (SGI1-I and the new variant SGI1-O) were mapped in five strains of
Proteus mirabilis
isolated from humans and food in China. Sequencing showed that SGI1 and variants were integrated at the 3′ end of the chromosomal
thdF
gene as previously described for
Salmonella
strains.
Nationwide Study of the Prevalence, Characteristics, and Molecular Epidemiology of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase-Producing
Enterobacteriaceae
in France
Authors: Galas Muriel , Decousser Jean-Winoc , Breton Nelly , Godard Thierry , Allouch Pierre Yves , Pina Patrick
Published: November 2007

Among 10,872 isolates of
Enterobacteriaceae
from a nationwide study of 88 French hospitals in 2005, 169 (1.7%) expressed an extended-spectrum β-lactamase. The most prevalent species were
Escherichia coli
(48.5%),
Enterobacter aerogenes
(23.7%), and
Klebsiella pneumoniae
(14.8%). Molecular analysis underlined the polyclonal spread of CTX-M-expressing
E. coli
, primarily isolates of the CTX-M-1 subgroup.
Effect of Calcineurin Inhibitors on Posaconazole Blood Levels as Measured by the MVista Microbiological Assay
Authors: Zhuang David , Smedema Melinda , LeMonte Ann , Book Benita K. , Pescovitz Mark D. , Wheat L. Joseph
Published: November 2007

Calcineurin inhibitors may augment the effects of antifungal drugs in microbiological assays. We examined this interaction in a microbiological assay for posaconazole. No effect was observed. However, concurrent or recently discontinued treatment with other antifungal drugs caused false-positive results, emphasizing a limitation of microbiological assays for antifungal drug level measurement.
Contribution of the SitABCD, MntH, and FeoB Metal Transporters to the Virulence of Avian Pathogenic
Escherichia coli
O78 Strain χ7122
Authors: Sabri Mourad , Caza Mélissa , Proulx Julie , Lymberopoulos Maria H. , Brée Annie , Moulin-Schouleur Maryvonne , Curtiss Roy , Dozois Charles M.
Published: November 2007

The roles of SitABCD, MntH, and FeoB metal transporters in the virulence of avian pathogenic
Escherichia coli
(APEC) O78 strain χ7122 were assessed using isogenic mutants in chicken infection models. In a single-strain infection model, compared to χ7122, the Δ
sit
strain demonstrated reduced colonization of the lungs, liver, and spleen. Complementation of the Δ
sit
strain restored virulence. In a coinfection model, compared to the virulent APEC strain, the Δ
sit
strain demonstrated mean 50-fold, 126-fold, and 25-fold decreases in colonization of the lungs, liver, and spleen, respectively. A Δ
mntH
Δ
sit
strain was further attenuated, demonstrating reduced persistence in blood and mean 1,400-fold, 954-fold, and 83-fold reduced colonization in the lungs, liver, and spleen, respectively. In coinfections, the Δ
feoB
Δ
sit
strain demonstrated reduced persistence in blood but increased colonization of the liver. The Δ
mntH
, Δ
feoB
, and Δ
feoB
Δ
mntH
strains were as virulent as the wild type in either of the infection models. Strains were also tested for sensitivity to oxidative stress-generating agents. The Δ
mntH
Δ
sit
strain was the most sensitive strain and was significantly more sensitive than the other strains to hydrogen peroxide, plumbagin, and paraquat.
sit
sequences were highly associated with APEC and human extraintestinal pathogenic
E. coli
compared to commensal isolates and diarrheagenic
E. coli
. Comparative genomic analyses also demonstrated that
sit
sequences are carried on conjugative plasmids or associated with phage elements and were likely acquired by distinct genetic events among pathogenic
E. coli
and
Shigella
sp. strains. Overall, the results demonstrate that SitABCD contributes to virulence and, together with MntH, to increased resistance to oxidative stress.
Influence of Gastric Acid on Susceptibility to Infection with Ingested Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Tennant Sharon M. , Hartland Elizabeth L. , Phumoonna Tongted , Lyras Dena , Rood Julian I. , Robins-Browne Roy M. , van Driel Ian R.
Published: November 2007

Despite the widely held belief that gastric acid serves as a barrier to bacterial pathogens, there are almost no experimental data to support this hypothesis. We have developed a mouse model to quantify the effectiveness of gastric acid in mediating resistance to infection with ingested bacteria. Mice that were constitutively hypochlorhydric due to a mutation in a gastric H+/K+-ATPase (proton pump) gene were infected withYersinia enterocolitica, Salmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium,Citrobacter rodentium, orClostridium perfringenscells or spores. Significantly greater numbers ofYersinia, Salmonella, andCitrobactercells (P≤ 0.006) andClostridiumspores (P= 0.02) survived in hypochlorhydric mice, resulting in reduced median infectious doses. Experiments involving intraperitoneal infection or infection of mice treated with antacids indicated that the increased sensitivity of hypochlorhydric mice to infection was entirely due to the absence of stomach acid. Apart from establishing the role of gastric acid in nonspecific immunity to ingested bacterial pathogens, our model provides an excellent system with which to investigate the effects of hypochlorhydria on susceptibility to infection and to evaluate the in vivo susceptibility to gastric acid of orally administered therapies, such as vaccines and probiotics.
The Algodones dunes, Imperial Valley, southern California
Authors: Rossbacher Lisa A.
Published: November 2007

The Algodones dunes are located along the eastern edge of the Imperial Valley, south and east of the Salton Sea (Fig. 1). This area is covered by U.S. Geological Survey 1:250,000 topographic maps of El Centro and Salton Sea, California.

The northwestern end of the dune field can be reached easily by passenger car via California 78 east from Brawley or southwest from Blythe. Just west of the town of Glamis, California 78 crosses the dunes. South of the highway, Hugh Osborn County Park offers ample parking, although on weekends itmay be filled by trailers carrying off-road vehicles or film crews shootingSaharan scenes. An unpaved desert road (Ted Kipf Road) parallels the easternedge of the entire dune field; this is generally passable with a passengercar, but changing conditions, including drifting sand, may make four-wheel-drive vehicles advisable or necessary. I-8 crosses the southeastern end of the dune field. The dunes are accessible by foot or dune buggy.
Structure section in Painted Canyon, Mecca Hills, southern California
Authors: Sylvester Arthur G. , Smith Robert R.
Published: November 2007

The Mecca Hills lie on the northeast margin of the Salton Sea astride the San Andreas fault zone near its southern terminus (Fig. 1). Painted Canyon bisects the Mecca Hills and isreached by driving 5 mi (8 km) eastward from Mecca on State Highway 195, and 0.2 mi (500 m) across and beyond the Coachella Canal, to a graded dirt road which follows a powerline northwestward 2 mi (3 km) to the mouth of the canyon (Fig. 1).

A few logistical remarks are worth emphasizing. Visitors should be awareof the hazards associated with flash floods, washed out roads, soft sand, off-road vehicles, and shooters, Temperatures soar to more than 104° (40° C)in late spring, summer, and early fall. Two plants, the smoke tree and desert holly, are protected by law and should not be disturbed. Rattlesnakes and scorpions are among the endemic fauna. Nearly all aspects of the general geology can be seen adequately from the canyon floor or can be reached by short treks up side canyons. Due caution should be exercised when climbing the friable rocks of the canyon walls. In the courses of many little canyonsare abrupt, vertical dry falls, around most of which are no detours.
Blackhawk landslide, southwestern San Bernardino County, California
Authors: Shreve Ronald L.
Published: November 2007

The Blackhawk landslide is located in southeastern Lucerne Valley at thesouthern edge of the Mojave Desert 85 mi (135 km) east of the Los Angeles, California, civic center. It lies across the eastern half of the line separating the Cougar Buttes and Big Bear City, California, U.S. Geological Survey7½-minute Topographic Quadrangles. Its distal (lower) end is readily apparent on both the map and the ground near 34°25'N, 116°47'W.

The easiest way to reach the landslide is to take I-15 to Victorville, then California 18 east through Apple Valley, approximately 25 mi (40 km) tothe center of the town of Lucerne Valley, and finally County Highway 247 (CH247, Fig. 1) east 8.7 mi (13.9km) to its intersection with Santa Fe Road (SFR, Fig. 1). The steep, gray, 50-ft (15-m) scarp approximately 2,000 ft (600 m) to the southeast is the distal edge of the landslide. It can most conveniently be visited on foot either from the prospectors' road (moderate clearance or four-wheel drive advisable) that enters the highway at Santa Fe Road or from the highway itself about 0.6 mi (1.0 km) farther east. Features along the west side of the landslide can be reached along Blackhawk Canyon Road (BCR, Fig. 1; moderate clearance or four-wheel drive advisable), which crosses the highway 1.05 mi (1.7 km) west of the Santa Fe Road intersection. Features within the landslide lobe can be reached by taking Blackhawk Canyon Road south from the highway 1.05 mi (1.7 km) to the remains of a jeep trail that goes eastward, following it (four-wheel drive strongly advisable) to the dry wash nearest the landslide, and driving up the wash. Alternatively, these features can be visited on foot by hiking from the roads to the west and south. Features of the proximal (upper) part of the landslide can best be reached by taking County Highway 247 east from the Santa Fe Road intersection 3.25 mi (5.2 km) to a well-graded mine road marked by a large white marble boulder, then taking the mine road (low hill on right 4.4 mi (7. 1 km) from highway is eastern lateral ridge of Silver Reef landslide) southwest 5.3 mi (8.5 km) to a prospectors' road (intersection about 1,400 ft (425 m) northeastof Round Mountain), next taking the prospectors' road (moderate clearance or four-wheel drive advisable) west approximately 0.25 mi (0.4 km) to where it crosses another similar road, and finally taking the other road northwest 1.6 mi (2.6 km) to the mouth of Blackhawk Canyon (BCM, Fig. 2). Features in the vicinity can be visited either on foot or, in most cases if road conditions permit, by vehicle (moderate to high clearance and low gear or four-wheel drive advisable). Good views of the landslide lobe on the alluvial slope and of its source area on Blackhawk Mountain can be obtained from the mine road (high clearance and low gear or four-wheel drive strongly advisable) that climbs the ridge just east of Blackhawk Canyon (VP, Fig. 2).
Haleakala Crater, Maui, Hawaii
Authors: Hackett William R
Published: November 2007

Abstracr

Haleakala Crater occupies the summit region of east Maui, Hawaii (Fig, 1). The crater is the center piece of Haleakala National Park and access is via Hawaii 378, a well-marked paved road. The highway parallels the crater rim for 3 mi (5 km), and has several overlooks with parking areas. The crater itself is a Wilderness Area; access is restricted to travel on foot. An extensive system of hiking trails traverses the crater, with access at two points: Sliding Sands Trail leaves Hawaii 378 about 660 ft (200 m) south of the Visitor Center, and Halemauu Trail leaves Ha-waii 378 about 3,2 mi (5.1 km) south of Haleakala National Park Headquarters. As no brief excursions to the crater floor are possible, two options are recommended: (1) a half-day trip, which involves a stop at the Visitor Center for orientation, short walks along trails near the Visitor Center or at Red Hill, and then stops at several crater overlooks on the return drive; and (2) a full-day excursion (8 to 10 hours), which enters the crater via Sliding Sands Trail, travels across the crater floor, and departs via the Halemauu Trail. No drinking water is available in the crater. Park Headquarters should be contacted to obtain trail maps and up-to-date weather information.

Accommodation in Haleakala National Park is geared to camping only; no restaurants or food concessions are available. Hosmer Grove Campground is accessible from Hawaii 378, in the northwest corner of the Park. Holua Campground is within the crater and accessible only on foot; users must have a camping permit from the park. Cabins are available within the crater, but these must be reserved by written request (several months in advance, since cabins are allocated by a monthly lottery). It is recommended that persons, especially those planning on overnight trip, write well in advance for more detailed information and maps to the Superintendent, Haleakala National Park, P.O. Box 537, Makawao, Maui, Hawaii 96768.
Relationship of the Jurassic volcanic arc to backarc stratigraphy, Cowhole Mountains, San Bernardino County, California
Authors: Marzolf John E. , Cole Robert D.
Published: November 2007

Geologic relationships observable at this site are displayed Paleozoic sedimentary and Mesozoic sedimentary and rocks preserved beneath a cap of Jurassic rhyolite on a herein referred to as Rhyolite Ridge. Rhyolite Ridge liesat northeastern corner of the Cowhole Mountains approximately 13 mi (21 km)south of Baker, California, comprising portions sections 12 and 13 of T12N, R9E and 7 and 18 of T12N, R1OE, San Bernardino Principle Point. Rhyolite Ridge (not labeled) be found in the southwest corner of the Seventeenmile Quadrangle, 7 1/2-minute Topographic Series of the U.S. Geologi cal Survey. The ridge may be reached by taking the paved baker Road south from the four-way stop in central Baker or turning south from either of the central Baker off-ramps 1–15. Figure 1 indicates mileage between points mentioned in following text.
Tertiary extensional features, Death Valley region, eastern California
Authors: Troxel Bennie W. , Wright Lauren A.
Published: November 2007

The southeastern part of the Death Valley region (Fig. 1 displays two remarkable structural features: turtleback 1938), and the Amargosa chaos (Noble, 1941). The changing ideas during the past half-century about the origin of these tures reflect the growth of understanding of the major aspects Basin and Range tectonics.

Although these features were initially believed to be to thrust faulting, a consensus now exists that they are different aspects of widespread Tertiary extension associated with the velopment of the Basin and Range province. The evidence which this historical debate is based is discussed in the site scriptions presented herein.
Quaternary fault-line features of the central Garlock fault, Kern County, California
Authors: Carter Bruce A.
Published: November 2007

The part of the Garlock fault near the town of Garlock can be reached by turning east on the Randsburg road from Califor-nia 14 about 20 mi (32 km) north of Mojave or by turning west from U.S. 395 about 6 mi (10 km) north of Johannesburg (Fig. 1C). From California 14, it is about 10 mi (16 km) east to the offset gravel bar, 1 mi (1.6 km) farther to the Mesquite Canyon Road, and then 4.5 mi (7.2 km) to the Goler area. The Goler area is about 4.5 mi (7.2 km) west of US. 395.
Red Cinder Mountain and Fossil Falls, California
Authors: Saint-Amand Pierre
Published: November 2007

Turn right (east) on Cinder Road, 3 mi (4.8 km) north of Little Lake Hotel on U.S. 395 in Rose Valley, Inyo County, California (Fig. 1). Red Cinder Mountain lies just north of Cinder Road. After 0.5 mi (0.8 km), the road bifurcates. Turn south (right) and continue for 0.6 mi (1 km) over the asperate surface of a lava flow, passing hydrolaccoliths 50 ft (15 m) high and several hundred feet (> 100 m) across, their upper surfaces domed and broken like crusts of over-risen bread. The road ends in a parking area. A trail to the southeast leads to the dry bed of the Owens River and Fossil Falls. These sites tell of interplay between climate change and volcanic activity.
Owens Lake, an ionic soap opera staged on a natric playa
Authors: Saint-Amand P. , Gaines C. , Saint-Amand D.
Published: November 2007

Owens Lake, 17 mi (27 km) south of Lone Pine in Inyo County, California, is reached via U.S. 395, (Fig. 1). This 110-mi2 (285-km2) lake bed, once part of a chain of Pleistocene lakes, was full of saline water until the 1920s. Now dry, it shows the processes at work in a wet, natric playa and tells of climatic change and of the effect of man on the desert.
The Silver Strand; A unique tombolo, San Diego, California
Authors: Elliott William J.
Published: November 2007

The Silver Strand tombolo is located in southwestern most California, in the city of Coronado, approximately 115 mi(185 km) south of Los Angeles. It can bereached from the city ofSan Diego by crossing over San Diego Bay on the Coronado TollBridge (California 75), or from the city of Imperial Beach, to thesouth, via the same highway. A standard road map of San Diegoand vicinity will provide a ready guide to the geology and physiography of the area as shown conceptually in Figure 1. From thetip of Point Loma, at The Old Point Loma Lighthouse, one canenjoy a world-class view of the Silver Strand, Coronado, NorthIsland, San Diego Bay, and the city of San Diego. Figure 1. Conceptual geologic map of the San Diego area, southwesternmost California. Standard map symbols have been used.
The Cristianitos fault and Quaternary geology, San Onofre State Beach, California
Authors: Shlemon Roy J.
Published: November 2007

The site is on the San Onofre Bluff Quadrangle 7½-minuteSeries, California, in San Diego County (SE¼, sec.30, T.9S., R.6W., SB). The site, located within the San Onofre State Beach, is bounded on the east and the southeast by the Camp PendletonMarine Corps Base and on the northwest by the City of SanClemente. The Cristianitos fault and adjacent wave-cut platformsare best exposed in the sea cliffs (San Onofre Bluff area, approximately 0.8 mi [1.3 km] downcoast [southeast] from the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station [SONGS; Fig. 1]).

The site is readily reached by passenger vehicle from eitherLos Angeles or San Diego, Exit I–5 (San Diego Freeway) at theBasilone Road Interchange (approximately 1 mi [1.6 km] south of the San Diego County-Orange County line) and follow thefrontage road southeastward (parallel to the coast), past SONGS,3.2 mi (5. 1 km) to the entrance of the San OnofreState Beach.

From the parking lot, follow a well-marked trail from thetop of the San Onofre Bluffs to the beach (approximately 15-minute walk). Partially down the bluffs, the trail merges into agraded access road and, at the Echo Arch Trail camping area, isgravel covered (private vehicles not permitted).

At the beach, follow the sea cliffs about 330 ft (100 m) tothe north. The Cristianitos fault is clearly visible in the bluffswhere it juxtaposes light-colored, massive silts and sands of thePliocene San Mateo Formation on the northwest and darkcolored, laminated siltstones and claystone of the late MioceneMonterey Formation on the southeast (Fig. 2).