bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The β2 integrin CD11b attenuates polyinosinic:Polycytidylic acid–induced hepatitis by negatively regulating natural killer cell functions #
Authors: Zhang Minggang , Han Yanmei , Han Chaofeng , Xu Sheng , Bao Yan , Chen Zhubo , Gu Yan , Xia Dajing , Cao Xuetao
Published: July 2009

The β2 integrins play a key role in inflammation and immune responses. The β2 integrin CD11b has been shown recently to be important in the maintenance of tolerance; however, the underlying mechanisms remain to be fully understood. Natural killer (NK) cells are an important effector of innate immunity but are also a regulator of adaptive immune response. How the activating and inhibitory signals are balanced to determine NK cell function needs to be further identified. CD11b expression was dramatically up-regulated on NK cells once they matured and became activated; therefore, we investigated the role of inducible CD11b in the regulation of NK cells. Neutralizing anti-CD11b antibody enhanced cytotoxicity, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) and granzyme B production of Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3)-triggered NK cells. CD11b-deficient NK cells stimulated with or without the TLR3 ligand polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)] exhibited more potent cytotoxicity, and higher production of IFN-γ and granzyme B. Through in vivo depletion of NK cells and adoptive transfer of CD11b-deficient NK cells, we demonstrated that CD11b-mediated suppression of NK cell function was responsible for attenuation of poly(I:C)-induced acute hepatitis by CD11b. Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that CD11b negatively regulates NK cell activation and thus attenuates poly(I:C)-induced acute hepatitis. Our study provides a new mechanistic explanation for maintenance of tolerance and control of inflammation by CD11b. (Hepatology 2009.)
The problem of the will in the late work of Vygotsky and Leont'ev's solution to this problem
Authors: Jantzen Wolfgang
Published: July 2009

For a materialistic and monistic theory of emotional processes an overcoming of the Cartesian dualism is of fundamental importance. Following Vygotsky's analysis in The Teaching of the Emotions the concept of a free will stands in the background of this dualism of higher and lower processes. While Vygotskij is able to solve this dualism in the area of emotions in his late work, starting with the lecture Infancy, a solution to the problem of the will is still due. Here Vygotskij radically rejects the separation of higher and lower emotional functions according to a dualism of psychology and biology. He replaces this separation with a dialectical relationship of rudimentary and ideal form. Vygotskij delivers a most interesting methodological pre‐clarification for the problem of the will, supported by empirical work and theoretical considerations, but it is Leont'ev who succeeds in giving an acceptable solution. This was possible by determining the neuropsychological base of the will by means of Bernstein's psychophysiology of movement.
Comparing ceramic–metal to metal–metal total hip replacements—A simulator study of metal wear and ion release in 32‐ and 38‐mm bearings
Authors: Ishida Tsunehito , Clarke Ian C. , Donaldson Thomas K. , Shirasu Hideo , Shishido Takaaki , Yamamoto Kengo
Published: July 2009

Our 32 and 38 mm alumina ceramic‐on‐metal (COM) bearings were run in a hip simulator study for comparison with 32 mm metal‐on‐metal (MOM) controls. The 32 mm MOM bearings demonstrated an overall wear rate of 1.58 mm3/million cycles (Mc) that was comparable to previous simulator studies. The peak run‐in MOM wear‐rates (10, 15.7 mm3/Mc) were higher than in previous simulator studies. There was a noticeable graying in color of serum lubricants with MOM wear rates of 2–3 mm3/Mc and with wear rates of 10–15 mm3/Mc the serum became much darker. The COM lubricants darkened during two “break‐away” wear events with wear‐rates 5.8–6.7 mm3/Mc. The 32 and 38 mm COM bearings demonstrated overall wear‐rates of 0.38 and 0.29 mm3/Mc, approximately four‐fold reduced compared to MOM controls. The COM wear‐rates were also much higher than in the one previous COM study. There may be methodological reasons that could explain this discrepancy. Our ion concentrations assessed from serum lubricants had Cobalt (Co) 68% and Chromium (Cr) 32% for average ratio of metal ion composition (i.e. averaging Co/Cr ratios: 2.26) in the parent alloy. Comparing Co ion concentrations during run‐in, the COM bearings represented a 35‐fold reduction compared to MOM. At 3.0 Mc, the COM represented a 33‐fold reduction compared to MOM. Overall, our simulator study confirmed previously published advantages of low wear and reduced metal ions with the ceramic–metal coupling compared to standard metal–metal bearings. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 2009
Calpain inhibitors prevent p38 MAPK activation and germ cell apoptosis after heat stress in pubertal rat testes
Authors: Lizama Carlos , Lagos Carlos F. , Lagos‐Cabré Raúl , Cantuarias Lorena , Rivera Freddy , Huenchuñir Patricio , Pérez‐Acle Tomás , Carrión Flavio , Moreno Ricardo D.
Published: July 2009

Testicular injuries like torsion or cryptorchidism can cause massive germ cell death, which could have great impact on male reproductive health. In addition, it has been proposed that modern life style, in the form of underwear or sedentary work position, could increase the testicular temperature, induce germ cell apoptosis, reduce spermatozoa quality and promote male infertility. In this work we showed that a heat stress stimulus induced massive germ cells apoptosis, which was associated with p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) phosphorylation along with an increase in the levels of mRNA encoding calpain 2. Synthetic calpain inhibitors prevented heat stress‐induced germ cell apoptosis through inhibition of p38 MAPK phosphorylation. Thus, our results indicate that the blockage of calpains suppresses p38 MAPK phosphorylation, and identifies calpain activation (most likely calpain 2) as an early event in heat stress‐induced male germ cell apoptosis. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 296–305, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis, characterization, and anti‐inflammatory evaluation of 1,2,4‐oxadiazoles combined with thiosemicarbazide and 1,3,4‐oxadiazole moieties
Authors: dos Santos Filho José M. , de Lima José G. , Leite Lúcia F. C. C.
Published: July 2009

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The reaction of 1,2,4‐oxadiazole carbohydrazides 1a, 1b, 1c, 1d, 1e, 1f, 1g, 1h with phenyl isothiocyanate led to an unexpected ring cyclisation of the thiosemicarbazide derivatives 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, 2e, 2f, 2g, 2h, giving compounds 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, 3e, 3f, 3g, 3h as side products. These two new series were preliminarily evaluated for their anti‐inflammatory activity, using the carrageenin induced edema protocol. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Role of microsomal epoxide hydrolase in methamphetamine‐induced drug dependence in mice
Authors: Shin Eun‐Joo , Bing Guoying , Chae Jong Seok , Kim Tae Woo , Bach Jae‐Hyung , Park Dae Hun , Yamada Kiyofumi , Nabeshima Toshitaka , Kim Hyoung‐Chun
Published: July 2009

Microsomal epoxide hydrolase (mEH) and cytochrome P‐450 (CYP) ensure the rapid detoxification of epoxides generated during the oxidative metabolism of xenobiotics. Although CYP has been demonstrated to modulate methamphetamine (METH)‐induced behavioral effects, little is known about the role of the mEH gene on these effects. We examined the role of mEH gene expression in METH‐induced conditioned place preference and behavioral sensitization by using mEH–/–and wild‐type (WT) mice. Extracellular dopamine (DA) levels and DA uptake into synaptosomes were assessed by using an in vivo microdialysis and [3H]DA uptake assay. We applied double‐label immunocytochemistry to characterize mEH‐positive cellular types. METH‐induced behavioral responses paralleled striatal c‐Fos‐like immunoreactivity. METH treatment resulted in increased extracellular DA levels in the nucleus accumbens but decreased synaptosomal DA uptake in the striatum. These behavioral and neurochemical changes were more pronounced in the mEH–/–mice than in WT mice. In WT mice, mEH‐like immunoreactivity was expressed in astrocytes labeled by GFAP or S100B after METH treatment. The results suggest that epoxide intermediates mediate METH drug dependence and that astrocytic reactions of mEH protein are important in the endogenous modulation in response to METH drug dependence. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Atrophy and neuron loss: Effects of a protein‐deficient diet on sympathetic neurons
Authors: Gomes Silvio Pires , Nyengaard Jens Randel , Misawa Rúbia , Girotti Priscila Azevedo , Castelucci Patrìcia , Blazquez Francisco Hernandez Javier , de Melo Mariana Pereira , Ribeiro Antonio Augusto Coppi
Published: July 2009

Protein deficiency is one of the biggest public health problems in the world, accounting for about 30–40% of hospital admissions in developing countries. Nutritional deficiencies lead to alterations in the peripheral nervous system and in the digestive system. Most studies have focused on the effects of protein‐deficient diets on the enteric neurons, but not on sympathetic ganglia, which supply extrinsic sympathetic input to the digestive system. Hence, in this study, we investigated whether a protein‐restricted diet would affect the quantitative structure of rat coeliac ganglion neurons. Five male Wistar rats (undernourished group) were given a pre‐ and postnatal hypoproteinic diet receiving 5% casein, whereas the nourished group (n = 5) was fed with 20% casein (normoproteinic diet). Blood tests were carried out on the animals, e.g., glucose, leptin, and triglyceride plasma concentrations. The main structural findings in this study were that a protein‐deficient diet (5% casein) caused coeliac ganglion (78%) and coeliac ganglion neurons (24%) to atrophy and led to neuron loss (63%). Therefore, the fall in the total number of coeliac ganglion neurons in protein‐restricted rats contrasts strongly with no neuron losses previously described for the enteric neurons of animals subjected to similar protein‐restriction diets. Discrepancies between our figures and the data for enteric neurons (using very similar protein‐restriction protocols) may be attributable to the counting method used. In light of this, further systematic investigations comparing 2‐D and 3‐D quantitative methods are warranted to provide even more advanced data on the effects that a protein‐deficient diet may exert on sympathetic neurons. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of α5 integrin rescues fibronectin responsiveness in NT2N CNS neuronal cells
Authors: Meland Marit N. , Herndon Mary E. , Stipp Christopher S.
Published: July 2009

The extracellular matrix protein fibronectin is implicated in neuronal regeneration in the peripheral nervous system. In the central nervous system (CNS), fibronectin is up‐regulated at sites of penetrating injuries and stroke; however, CNS neurons down‐regulate the fibronectin receptor α5β1 integrin during differentiation and generally respond poorly to fibronectin. NT2N CNS neuron‐like cells (derived from NT2 precursor cells) have been used in preclinical and clinical studies for treatment of stroke and a variety of CNS injury and disease models. Here we show that, like primary CNS neurons, NT2N cells down‐regulate α5β1 integrin during differentiation and respond poorly to fibronectin. The poor neurite outgrowth by NT2N cells on fibronectin can be rescued by transducing NT2 precursors with a retroviral vector expressing α5 integrin under the control of the murine stem cell virus 5′ long terminal repeat. Sustained α5 integrin expression is compatible with the CNS‐like neuronal differentiation of NT2N cells and does not prevent robust neurite outgrowth on other integrin ligands. Thus, α5 integrin expression in CNS neuronal precursor cells may provide a strategy for enhancing the outgrowth and survival of implanted cells in cell‐replacement therapies for CNS injury and disease. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increments of α‐dystroglycan expression in liver metastasis correlate with poor survival in gastric cancer
Authors: Moon Yong Wha , Rha Sun Young , Zhang Xianglan , Jeung Hei‐Cheul , Yang Woo Ick , Kwon Obin , Jeong Jae Heon , Cheon Sung Hah , Yoo Nae Choon , Chung Hyun Cheol
Published: July 2009

Background

Dystroglycan (DG) is a recently focused adhesion molecule with possible roles in cancer development and progression. We investigated correlations between α‐DG expression and prognosis in gastric carcinoma with liver metastasis.

Methods

For 40 patients with gastric adenocarcinoma and liver‐only metastasis, α‐DG expression was determined by immunohistochemistry in paraffin‐embedded surgical specimens of resected stomach tumor, resected liver metastasis, and their normal counterpart tissues. Correlations between α‐DG expression and prognosis were retrospectively analyzed.

Results

α‐DG expression was higher in primary gastric cancer (P = 0.006) and lower in liver metastasis (P = 0.002) than in each normal counterpart. In primary stomach cancer, patients who had lower α‐DG expression in tumors than in normal counterparts showed poor overall survival (OS) (P = 0.028). In contrast, in the liver, patients who had higher α‐DG expression in tumors than in normal counterparts showed poor OS (P = 0.022). Also, higher α‐DG expression in liver metastasis than in stomach tumors led to poor recurrence‐free survival (P = 0.023) and OS (P = 0.056).

Conclusions

This approach may be used to further understanding of the pathogenesis of liver metastasis from gastric cancer. Further studies are warranted to reveal the mechanisms of α‐DG dysregulation in liver metastasis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:459–465. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Update on endoscopic management of lingual thyroglossal duct cysts
Authors: Burkart Collin M. , Richter Gresham T. , Rutter Michael J. , Myer Charles M.
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Thyroglossal duct cysts (TGDC) are uncommon congenital midline neck masses arising from tubal remnants of embryologic thyroid descent. A rare variant of TGDC can present in the central tongue base and is named lingual TGDC (LTGDC). Left untreated, LTGDC may present with life‐threatening airway obstruction. TGDC require surgery for cure; however, the surgical approach to LTGDC has not been discussed fully. This study was designed to examine the incidence, clinical features, and surgical management of LTGDC.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review of patients from a pediatric tertiary care institution diagnosed with lingual TGDC from 1997 to 2008.

Results:

One hundred eighty‐nine patients underwent surgical excision of TGDC, of which 16 (8.5%; mean age, 3 years) presented with lingual TGDC alone. Most lingual TGDC were discovered incidentally, although seven patients (44%) presented with moderate to severe upper airway obstruction. Endoscopic transoral excision was performed in each case. This included suspension laryngoscopy with electrocautery, electrocautery, and cold dissection, or a combination of microdebridement and electrocautery. Most patients were intubated electively overnight for airway protection. All patients recovered without complication and have shown no evidence of recurrence (median follow‐up, 3.7 years). Two LTGDC cases were revisions of prior surgeries (marsupialization and an open procedure) performed at outside hospitals.

Conclusions:

Although rare, LTGDC frequently present as a prominent tongue base mass with the potential of life‐threatening airway obstruction. Herein we described the typical presentation, workup, and ideal surgical approach of these lesions. Complete surgical extirpation can be performed successfully with endoscopic techniques and minimal risk of complication or recurrence. Laryngoscope, 2009
Electrogustometric assessment of taste after otologic surgery in children
Authors: Leung Randy M. , Ramsden James , Gordon Karen , Allemang Brooke , Harrison Brittany J. , Papsin Blake C.
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Long term taste dysfunction after otologic surgery has never been characterized in children. The aim of this study is to determine the rates of gustatory dysfunction in normal and postotologic surgery in children.

Study Design:

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods:

One hundred sixty children visiting a tertiary pediatric otolaryngology clinic, 4 to 18 years of age, were recruited. Surgical groups included patients who had undergone tympanoplasty, combined approach mastoidectomy, modified radical mastoidectomy, and unilateral and bilateral cochlear implantation. They were then tested using a Rion TR‐06 electrogustometer (Sensonics, Inc., Haddon Heights, NJ) using a standardized protocol to assess chorda tympani nerve function. An abnormal gustometry result was defined as any recording of ≥16 dB or a difference of 6 dB between ears.

Results:

The control group had a 9% (5/61) abnormal electrogustometric threshold rate. Rates of dysfunction after surgery were: tympanoplasty (27%, 4/15), combined approach mastoidectomy (30%, 11/29), modified radical mastoidectomy (50%, 4/8). Unilateral cochlear implantation yielded a 26% (7/27) per ear risk of dysfunction, whereas bilateral cochlear implantation had a 5% (2/40) per ear risk.

Conclusions:

There is a 9% baseline level of electrogustometric abnormality in the pediatric population, which suggests a subclinical level of gustatory dysfunction. Normal electrogustometry was found in 50% of children after modified radical mastoidectomy, suggesting a degree of neural regenerative capacity. Finally, cochlear implantation, using newer surgical techniques (in the bilateral cochlear implant group) has a low risk for causing gustatory dysfunction, reducing concerns over the safety profile of bilateral cochlear implantation. Laryngoscope, 2009
Spherical whispering‐gallery‐mode microresonators
Authors: Chiasera A. , Dumeige Y. , Féron P. , Ferrari M. , Jestin Y. , Nunzi Conti G. , Pelli S. , Soria S. , Righini G.C.
Published: July 2009

Whispering‐gallery modes (WGM) on a spherical surface were first described by Lord Rayleigh at the beginning of the last century, but only after the invention of laser did they start to have some scientific relevance and only during the last two decades there has been a substantial move towards real devices and practical applications. WGM resonators have peculiar properties, the most notable being the potential of having an ultrahigh quality factor Q, which makes them very appealing both as laser cavities and as extremely sensitive sensors. Among the different types of WGM resonators, the microspherical ones represent a very important category, due to their simplicity, easy fabrication, and very high quality. In this review we provide a description of their fundamental properties and we summarize recent works on their application as filters, sensors and lasers.
Numerische und experimentelle Untersuchungen zur Herstellung von stranggepressten Aluminium/Magnesium‐Werkstoffverbunden und zur Festigkeit des Interface
Authors: Kittner K. , Awiszus B. , Lehmann T. , Stockmann M. , Naumann J.
Published: July 2009

Das Teilprojekt B3 des SFB 692 hat sich zum Ziel gesetzt, Aluminium/Magnesium‐Verbunde hinsichtlich seiner mechanischen Festigkeitseigenschaften und bruchmechanischen Kenngrößen zu analysieren. Des Weiteren soll die entstandene Grenzschicht in einem numerischen Modell abgebildet werden.

Im folgenden Artikel werden die wesentlichen Erkenntnisse des Teilprojektes dargelegt. Es wurden verschiedene Faktoren untersucht, welche die Eigenschaften der Grenzschicht beeinflussen. Es zeigt sich, dass die Verbundqualität und die Festigkeit der Grenzschicht von einer Reihe von Größen abhängen, die maßgeblich im Prozess der Halbzeugherstellung, dem hydrostatischen und indirekten Strangpressen, begründet sind. Wird eine qualitativ einwandfreie Grenzschicht zwischen beiden Verbundpartnern erzeugt, weist dieses Interface eine hohe Festigkeit auf. Darüber hinaus wird gezeigt, wie sich die Verbunde in verschiedenen Temperaturbereichen unter Belastung verhalten. Des Weiteren wird das Versagensverhalten des Verbundes numerisch abgebildet.
Untersuchungen zur Festigkeit von Schrauben aus ultrafeinkörnigem und konventionellem Aluminiumwerkstoff EN AW‐7075
Authors: Lang H. , Brůžek B. , Leidich E. , Bürkner G. , Teucher A.
Published: July 2009

Es werden Ergebnisse von Festigkeits‐ und Bruchuntersuchungen an Aluminiumschrauben mit gewalztem Gewinde aus EN AW‐7075, Nenngröße M6 bei quasistatischer und Schwingbeanspruchung mit vergleichsweise hohen Mittelspannungen vorgestellt. Den Untersuchungen lagen Schrauben mit gewöhnlicher Korngröße und Schrauben aus ultrafeinkörnigem, durch Equal Channel Angular Extrusion (ECAE) erzeugtem Werkstoff, zugrunde. Obwohl die Zugfestigkeit bei beiden Korngrößen ähnliche ist, erreicht die Schwingfestigkeit des ultrafeinkörnigen Werkstoffs nach den vorliegenden Untersuchungen nicht die Schwingfestigkeit des Werkstoffes mit gewöhnlicher Korngröße. Mittels eines modifizierten Treppenstufenverfahrens wurde für die Schrauben mit gewöhnlicher Korngröße eine Dauerfestigkeitsamplitude von 23 MPa ermittelt. Weiterhin wird das Bruchverhalten der Aluminiumschrauben diskutiert.
Target Costing für Werkstoffe – Potenziale und Methodik
Authors: Götze U. , Weber Th. , Linke C. , Schmidt A.
Published: July 2009

Das Target Costing – in der Betriebswirtschaftslehre ein Standardinstrument des Kostenmanagement – findet in der wirtschaftlich orientierten Literatur zu den Werkstoffwissenschaften bisher kaum Erwähnung. Dabei bestehen auch für die Entwickler, Hersteller oder Verwender von Werkstoffen große Potentiale im Hinblick auf die Sicherung bzw. Verbesserung der Wirtschaftlichkeit. Daran setzt der vorliegende Beitrag an. In diesem werden zunächst diese Potentiale eines werkstoffbezogenen Target Costing herausgearbeitet. Dann wird aufgezeigt, wie die allgemeine Methodik des Target Costing aus der Sicht von Werkstoffverwendern einerseits und Werkstoffentwicklern/‐herstellern andererseits zu modifizieren ist, um den Besonderheiten von Werkstoffen gerecht zu werden.
Endbearbeitung von Aluminiummatrix‐Verbundwerkstoffen durch Drehen
Authors: Schubert A. , Nestler A.
Published: July 2009

Aluminiummatrix‐Verbundwerkstoffe bestehen aus einer vergleichsweise weichen und zähen Matrixlegierung und einer darin in Form von Fasern, Partikeln oder Whiskern eingebetteten keramischen Verstärkungskomponente hoher Härte. Die stark unterschiedlichen Charakteristika der Bestandteile eines Verbundwerkstoffs ermöglichen einerseits über die Auswahl der Komponenten sowie deren Mengenverhältnis die gezielte Einstellung gewünschter Kombinationen von Materialeigenschaften, führen andererseits aber bei der spanenden Bearbeitung zu ständig wechselnden Beanspruchungen der Werkzeugschneide. Als besonders problematisch erweist sich bei der spanenden Endbearbeitung derartiger Bauteile neben dem hohen Werkzeugverschleiß die Schädigung der Werkstückoberfläche durch herausgerissene oder zertrümmerte Partikel. Die prozesssichere Erzeugung einer fehlerarmen Oberfläche mit geringer Rauheit stellt folglich hohe Anforderungen an den Schneidstoff, die Werkzeuggeometrie sowie die Zerspanungsparameter. Zur Erzielung möglichst langer Standzeiten kommt bei den Forschungsarbeiten der hochharte Schneidstoff CVD‐Diamant (chemische Gasphasenabscheidung = CVD) in Form von Wendeschneidplattenbestückungen zur Anwendung. Auf der Basis von Versuchen zur Bearbeitung partikelverstärkter Aluminiummatrix‐Verbundwerkstoffe durch Drehen wird das Potenzial von Spanleitstufen sowie einer besonderen Schneideneckengestaltung zur Verbesserung der Bauteiloberfläche unter Berücksichtigung des Vorschubs, einer wesentlichen Einflussgröße, dargestellt.
Cardiac phenotyping in ex vivo murine embryos using µMRI
Authors: Cleary Jon O. , Price Anthony N. , Thomas David L. , Scambler Peter J. , Kyriakopoulou Vanessa , McCue Karen , Schneider Jürgen E. , Ordidge Roger J. , Lythgoe Mark F.
Published: July 2009

Microscopic MRI (µMRI) is an emerging technique for high‐throughput phenotyping of transgenic mouse embryos, and is capable of visualising abnormalities in cardiac development. To identify cardiac defects in embryos, we have optimised embryo preparation and MR acquisition parameters to maximise image quality and assess the phenotypic changes in chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding protein 7 (Chd7) transgenic mice. µMRI methods rely on tissue penetration with a gadolinium chelate contrast agent to reduce tissue T1, thus improving signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) in rapid gradient echo sequences. We investigated 15.5 days post coitum (dpc) wild‐type CD‐1 embryos fixed in gadolinium‐diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (Gd‐DTPA) solutions for either 3 days (2 and 4 mM) or 2 weeks (2, 4, 8 and 16 mM). To assess penetration of the contrast agent into heart tissue and enable image contrast simulations, T1 and T were measured in heart and background agarose. Compared to 3‐day, 2‐week fixation showed reduced mean T1 in the heart at both 2 and 4 mM concentrations (p < 0.0001), resulting in calculated signal gains of 23% (2 mM) and 29% (4 mM). Using T1 and T values from 2‐week concentrations, computer simulation of heart and background signal, and ex vivo 3D gradient echo imaging, we demonstrated that 2‐week fixed embryos in 8 mM Gd‐DTPA in combination with optimised parameters (TE/TR/α/number of averages: 9 ms/20 ms/60°/7) produced the largest SNR in the heart (23.2 ± 1.0) and heart chamber contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR) (27.1 ± 1.6). These optimised parameters were then applied to an MRI screen of embryos heterozygous for the gene Chd7, implicated in coloboma of the eye, heart defects, atresia of the choanae, retardation of growth, genital/urinary abnormalities, ear abnormalities and deafness (CHARGE) syndrome (a condition partly characterised by cardiovascular birth defects in humans). A ventricular septal defect was readily identified in the screen, consistent with the human phenotype. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The Boston Middle School‐Corner Store Initiative: Development, implementation, and initial evaluation of a program designed to improve adolescents' beverage‐purchasing behaviors
Authors: Hoffman Jessica A. , Morris Vivien , Cook John
Published: July 2009

The Boston Middle School Corner Store Initiative (CSI) brought together schools, businesses, and community partners to develop, implement, and evaluate a multicomponent pilot program designed to promote healthier beverage purchasing at corner stores among 3,500 middle school students living in Boston, Massachusetts. Healthy drinks were defined for the purpose of this initiative as plain water, low‐fat and fat‐free milk, and 100% fruit juice. To accomplish the goals of the CSI, partnerships between middle schools and nearby corner stores in support of healthy beverage choices were formed; a social marketing plan aimed at middle school students was developed; local corner stores and schools engaged in the social marketing plan; school‐based educational and motivational components were implemented; and parents were provided with information about the campaign. The purpose of this article is to describe the: (1) design and implementation of the CSI with a focus on developing relationships across the varied partners (i.e., school, business, and community/researchers); (2) initial process and outcome evaluation data of this pilot study; and (3) lessons learned and directions for future replication and program development. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effects of behavioral weight control intervention on binge eating symptoms among overweight adolescents
Authors: Mehlenbeck Robyn S. , Jelalian Elissa , Lloyd‐Richardson Elizabeth E. , Hart Chantelle N.
Published: July 2009

This study examined change in binge eating symptoms reported by moderately overweight adolescents following participation in a behavioral weight control intervention. A total of 194 adolescents across two randomized controlled trials participated. Adolescents in both study samples endorsed a mild level of binge eating symptoms at baseline. Results from both Study 1 and Study 2 indicated a significant reduction in binge eating symptoms following participation in a 16‐week weight control intervention, F(1,60) = 9.43, p < .01 and F(1,98) = 20.98, p < .01, respectively. Several significant relationships between measures of self‐concept and binge eating symptoms were noted, with lower self‐concept scores related to higher binge eating symptoms scores at baseline. Changes in binge eating symptoms were also related to changes in physical appearance self‐concept, global self‐concept, and physical self‐worth at the end of the intervention. In conclusion, findings from this study support an emerging body of evidence suggesting that dietary restriction, as practiced through participation in a weight control intervention, leads to a reduction in binge eating symptoms among overweight adolescents. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Correlates and suspected causes of obesity in children
Authors: Crothers Laura M. , Kehle Thomas J. , Bray Melissa A. , Theodore Lea A.
Published: July 2009

The correlates and suspected causes of the intractable condition obesity are complex and involve environmental and heritable, psychological and physical variables. Overall, the factors associated with and possible causes of it are not clearly understood. Although there exists some ambiguity in the research regarding the degree of happiness in children with obesity, treatments that promote the child's psychological wellness and happiness should continue to be examined relating to promoting enduring weight reduction. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Evaluation of Adhesion and Wear Resistance of DLC Films Deposited by Various Methods
Authors: Horiuchi Takahiro , Yoshida Kentaro , Kano Makoto , Kumagai Masao , Suzuki Tetsuya
Published: July 2009

Diamond‐like carbon (DLC) coatings are currently being used in a wide variety of industrial fields because of their outstanding properties, such as high hardness and low friction coefficient, among others. DLC coatings have various characteristics depending on the deposition method used. However, they have a problem regarding adhesion with the base material, which is a major factor hindering their expanded application in other fields. The adhesion of DLC coatings is generally evaluated using Rockwell indentation tests and scratch tests. These test methods induce damage in the specimen with the application of a single load. Accordingly, there is a problem of low correlation between such test results and evaluations of the adhesion of coatings on actual components that undergo repeated sliding cycles. With the aim of resolving that problem, this study evaluated the damage condition of three types of DLC coatings having different physical properties using newly devised cyclic sliding test methods involving the application of a continuously increasing load. The evaluation results obtained with these new methods differed from the results of Rockwell tests and scratch tests. These new test methods are more able to reproduce the damage done to DLC coatings in actual sliding cycles. This paper describes the test procedures and the evaluation results obtained.

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Adenovirus infections within a family cohort in Iran
Authors: Naghipour Mohammadreza , Hart C. Anthony , Dove Winifred , Leatherbarrow A. J. Howard , Cuevas Luis E.
Published: July 2009

Background

Adenovirus is one of the most frequent viruses associated with acute respiratory infections (ARI). There is limited information of its transmission within the community.

Methods

Cohorts of 50 families with ≥two children were visited weekly for 2 months to ascertain the presence ARI in Rasht, Iran. Nasopharyngeal swabs were obtained from symptomatic participants and at 3–4‐day intervals to assess the duration of adenovirus shedding. Adenoviruses were identified by PCR and adenovirus positive amplicons were subjected to DNA sequencing.

Results

Thirty‐three (35%) of 94 ARI episodes in children and 8 (27%) of 30 episodes in adults were due to adenovirus (not significant, NS). 25/50 (50%) families had adenovirus infections. Children had more infections than adults, were more likely to develop symptoms if there was a symptomatic case within the household and episodes had a longer duration (P < 0.05). Adenoviruses were recovered for a median of 11 (interquartile range 5–26) days of follow up in children and 7 (2–20) days in adults (NS). Adenovirus‐7 was the most frequent serotype (12 families), followed by adenovirus‐6 (5 families), adenovirus‐1 and 2 (4 families each), and adenovirus‐5 (3 families). Both adenovirus‐5 and 7 amplicons fell into two clusters. No mutations were observed during transmission within a family.

Conclusion

A substantial proportion of ARI in the community are due to adenovirus with further transmission within the family. Children ≥2 years experienced a higher proportion of infections than younger children and adults. Viral shedding was more prolonged in children and adenovirus‐7 and 5 predominated with several clusters co‐circulating in the same season. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:749–753. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
‘Difficult Asthma’: Can Symptoms be Controlled in a Structured Environment?
Authors: De Boeck K. , Moens M. , Van Der Aa N. , Meersman A. , Schuddinck L. , Proesmans M.
Published: July 2009

Objective

Difficult asthma implies persistent asthma symptoms despite therapy with high doses of inhaled corticosteroids. The objective was to evaluate children with difficult asthma in a setting that excludes aggravating factors such as poor treatment adherence and adverse environmental influences.

Patients and Methods

Sixty children (≥6 years) had been referred because of difficult asthma to the rehabilitation centre over a period of 10 years. The diagnosis of poor asthma symptom control was confirmed if exacerbations continued during stay in the centre or if symptoms interfered with daily activities at least 3 times a week.

Results

The median stay at the centre was 5 months. In four patients a diagnosis other than asthma was made. In five patients symptom control remained difficult. In the remaining 51 children, asthma symptoms became well controlled. Many factors contributed to poor asthma control in the home setting: poor treatment adherence (n = 32), parental smoking (n = 22), allergen exposure (n = 10). Psychosocial problems occurred in 36 children. Contributing factors often co‐existed. During stay at the centre, lung function improved in the group with well controlled asthma symptoms (P < 0.001) but not in the group with continued poor symptom control. In the majority of children who obtained good symptom control, this persisted in the years following discharge.

Conclusion

Of 60 children referred with a diagnosis of difficult asthma, optimal medical management in a structured environment resulted in good symptom control in 51 patients; symptom control remained poor in 5 patients, a diagnosis other than asthma was made in 4 patients. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:743–748. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of mutator P. aeruginosa on antibiotic resistance acquisition and respiratory function in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Ferroni Agnes , Guillemot Didier , Moumile Kaoutar , Bernede Claire , Le Bourgeois Muriel , Waernessyckle Serge , Descamps Philippe , Sermet‐Gaudelus Isabelle , Lenoir Gérard , Berche Patrick , Taddei François
Published: July 2009

Background

Cystic fibrosis patients suffer from recurrent bacterial infections that result in progressive deterioration of their respiratory function. Despite intensive antibiotic treatment, Pseudomonas aeruginosa is the main cause of such infections, with clones progressively developing multiple antibiotic resistance. We determined the relationship between the presence of P. aeruginosa mutator strains and cystic fibrosis clinical characteristics.

Methods

We analyzed 136 strains of P. aeruginosa isolated from the expectorations of 36 CF patients. On all strains, mutation frequencies were determined by the mutation rate to rifampicin, and antibiotic susceptibility was determined by the disk diffusion method. The epidemiological relatedness of these 136 P. aeruginosa strains was studied by pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis. The appearance of new antibiotic resistance by sequential analysis of genotypically identical strains was determined. Lung function test results, that is, forced expiratory volume in 1 sec and vital capacity, were also recorded from these patients.

Results

We showed that bacteria with an enhanced mutation rate increase the rate of acquisition of new antibiotic resistance threefold and are associated with the deterioration of lung function.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates the effect of mutator bacteria on the efficiency of patient treatment and on their respiratory function. Given the consequence of antibiotic treatment failure and lung deterioration on the prognosis of CF patients, antibiotic treatment strategies may need to be optimized to prevent the emergence of mutator clones. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2009; 44:820–825. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo measurement of somatodendritic release of dopamine in the ventral tegmental area
Authors: Kita Justin M. , Kile Brian M. , Parker Lauren E. , Wightman R. Mark
Published: July 2009

The ventral tegmental area (VTA), the locus of mesolimbic dopamine cell bodies, contains dopamine. Experiments in brain slices have demonstrated that VTA dopamine can be released by local electrical stimulation. Measurements with both push‐pull cannula and microdialysis in intact animals have also obtained evidence for releasable dopamine. Here we demonstrate that dopamine release in the VTA can be evoked by remote stimulations of the medial forebrain bundle (MFB) in the anesthetized rat. In initial experiments, the MFB was electrically stimulated while a carbon‐fiber electrode was lowered to the VTA, with recording by fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry. While release was not observed with the carbon fiber 4–6 mm below dura, a voltammetric response was observed at 6–8 mm below dura, but the voltammogram was poorly defined. At lower depths, in the VTA, dopamine release was evoked. Immunohistochemistry experiments with antibodies for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) confirmed that dopamine processes were primarily found below 8 mm. Similarly, tissue content determined by liquid chromatography revealed serotonin but not dopamine dorsal to 8 mm with both dopamine and serotonin at lower depths. Evaluation of the VTA signal by pharmacological means showed that it increased with inhibitors of dopamine uptake, but release was not altered by D2 agents. Dopamine release in the VTA was frequency dependent and could be exhausted by stimulations longer than 5 s. Thus, VTA dopamine release can be evoked in vivo by remote stimulations and it resembles release in terminal regions, possessing a similar uptake mechanism and a finite releasable storage pool. Synapse 63:951–960, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reward‐seeking and discrimination deficits displayed by hypodopaminergic mice are prevented in mice lacking dopamine D4 receptors
Authors: Nemirovsky Sergio I. , Avale M. Elena , Brunner Daniela , Rubinstein Marcelo
Published: July 2009

The dopamine D4 receptor (D4R) is predominantly expressed in the prefrontal cortex, a brain area that integrates motor, rewarding, and cognitive information. Because participation of D4Rs in executive learning is largely unknown, we challenged D4R knockout mice (Drd4−/−) and their wild‐type (WT) littermates, neonatally treated with 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA; icv) or vehicle in two operant learning paradigms. A continuous reinforcement task, in which one food‐pellet was delivered after every lever press, showed that 6‐OHDA‐treated mice (hypodopaminergic) WT mice pressed the reinforcing lever at much lower rates than normodopaminergic WT mice. In contrast,Drd4−/−mice displayed increased lever pressing rates, regardless of their dopamine content. In another study, mice were trained to solve an operant two‐choice task in which a first showing lever was coupled to the delivery of one food pellet only after a second lever emerged. Interval between presentation of both levers was initially 12 s and progressively shortened to 6, 2, and finally 0.5 s. Normodopaminergic WT mice obtained a pellet reward in more than 75% of the trials at 12, 6, and 2 s, whereas hypodopaminergic WT mice were severely impaired to select the reward‐paired lever. Absence of D4Rs was not detrimental in this task. Moreover, hypodopaminergicDrd4−/−mice were as efficient as their normodopaminergicDrd4−/−siblings in selecting the reward‐paired lever. In summary, hypodopaminergic mice exhibit severe impairments to retrieve rewards in two operant positive reinforcement tasks, but these deleterious effects are totally prevented in the absence of functional D4Rs. Synapse 63:991–997, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surgical Management of Infected Pseudoaneurysms in Intravenous Drug Abusers: Single Institution Experience and a Proposed Algorithm
Authors: Tan Ker‐Kan , Chen Kenneth , Chia Kok‐Hoong , Lee Chee‐Wei , Nalachandran Sanjay
Published: July 2009

Background

Vascular complications from intravenous drug abuse pose significant challenges to vascular surgeons. No formalized polices have been reached on surgical management of the resultant infected pseudoaneurysm.

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent surgery for pseudoaneurysms due to chronic intravenous drug abuse from July 2005 to February 2008 was performed.

Results

A total of 15 patients with infected pseudoaneurysms from chronic intravenous drug abuse were operated on during the study period. The sites of involvement were restricted to the femoral (86.7%) and brachial (13.3%) areas. The drug involved was buprenorphine (Subutex) in all cases. Pain over the limb swelling (100%), pulsatility (60%), and symptoms suggestive of septicemia (46.7%) were the most common symptoms. Staphylococcus aureus was present in 93.3%. Diagnosis was achieved clinically in 26.7%, by duplex ultrasonography in 60.0%, and by computed tomography (CT) angiography in 13.3%. In the two patients with brachial pseudoaneurysms, the brachial artery was ligated in one, and a basilic vein patch was used in the other. In the 13 patients with femoral pseudoaneurysms, the pseudoaneurysm was ligated and excised in 8 (61.5%), and immediate reconstructive bypass surgery was performed in 5 (38.5%). Two patients had critical ischemia after ligation and required reconstructive bypass surgery a few weeks later. Postoperative complications included claudication, digital gangrene, localized wound infection, and rebleeding. There was no associated mortality.

Conclusions

Pseudoaneurysm from intravenous drug abuse continues to pose significant challenges to surgeons worldwide, ranging from an accurate diagnosis to the choice of surgery. The aims of surgery must be to achieve adequate débridement and control infection and hemorrhage. Any associated postoperative complications must be identified and dealt with.
Structure–activity relationship of amyloid fibrils
Authors: Maji Samir K. , Wang Lei , Greenwald Jason , Riek Roland
Published: July 2009

Protein aggregation is a process in which proteins self‐associate into imperfectly ordered macroscopic entities. Such aggregates are generally classified as either amorphous or highly ordered, the most common form of the latter being amyloid fibrils. Amyloid fibrils composed of cross‐β‐sheet structure are the pathological hallmarks of several diseases including Alzheimer's disease, but are also associated with functional states such as the fungal HET‐s prion. This review aims to summarize the recent high‐resolution structural studies of amyloid fibrils in light of their (potential) activities. We propose that the repetitive nature of the cross‐β‐sheet structure of amyloids is key for their multiple properties: the repeating motifs can translate a rather non‐specific interaction into a specific one through cooperativity.
The antifungal plant defensin RsAFP2 from radish induces apoptosis in a metacaspase independent way in Candida albicans
Authors: Aerts An M. , Carmona-Gutierrez Didac , Lefevre Sophie , Govaert Gilmer , François Isabelle E.J.A. , Madeo Frank , Santos Renata , Cammue Bruno P.A. , Thevissen Karin
Published: July 2009

We show that the antifungal plant defensin Raphanus sativus antifungal protein 2 (RsAFP2) from radish induces apoptosis and concomitantly triggers activation of caspases or caspase‐like proteases in the human pathogen Candida albicans. Furthermore, we demonstrate that deletion of C. albicans metacaspase 1, encoding the only reported (putative) caspase in C. albicans, significantly affects caspase activation by the apoptotic stimulus acetic acid, but not by RsAFP2. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the induction of apoptosis with concomitant caspase activation by a defensin in this pathogen. Moreover, our data point to the existence of at least two different types of caspases or caspase‐like proteases in C. albicans.
Influenza A virus‐induced caspase‐3 cleaves the histone deacetylase 6 in infected epithelial cells
Authors: Husain Matloob , Harrod Kevin S.
Published: July 2009

Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) is a multi‐substrate cytoplasmic enzyme that regulates many important biological processes. Recently, some reports have implicated HDAC6 in viral infection. However, nothing is known about its regulation in virus‐infected cells. The data presented here for the first time demonstrate the caspase‐3‐mediated cleavage of HDAC6 in influenza A virus (IAV)‐infected cells. HDAC6 polypeptide contains the caspase‐3 cleavage motif DMAD‐S at the C‐terminus, and is a caspase‐3 substrate. The cleavage removes most of the C‐terminal ubiquitin‐binding zinc finger domain from HDAC6, which could be significant for HDAC6's role in IAV‐induced apoptosis in infected cells.
Hypothermia attenuates ischemia/reperfusion‐induced endothelial cell apoptosis via alterations in apoptotic pathways and JNK signaling
Authors: Yang Dan , Guo Shubin , Zhang Tianpeng , Li Huihua
Published: July 2009

Hypothermia is the most effective means of protecting the brain, heart and other organs during ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, the precise mechanisms for hypothermia to inhibit I/R‐induced endothelial cell apoptosis are not fully understood. In the present study, human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to ischemia followed by reperfusion under normothermia (37 °C) or hypothermia (33 °C). Our results showed that hypothermia markedly reduced I/R‐induced endothelial cell apoptosis, the expression of cleaved caspase‐3 and PARP. Moreover, hypothermia markedly reversed I/R‐induced activation of Fas/caspase‐8, the increase of Bax and decrease of Bcl‐2. Furthermore, hypothermia inhibited JNK1/2 activation via MKP‐1 induction. Together, these data demonstrate that hypothermia represses I/R‐induced endothelial cell apoptosis by inhibiting both extrinsic‐ and intrinsic‐dependent apoptotic pathways and activation of JNK1/2.
Touch induces ATP release in Arabidopsis roots that is modulated by the heterotrimeric G‐protein complex
Authors: Weerasinghe Ravisha R. , Swanson Sarah J. , Okada Seiko F. , Garrett Michele B. , Kim Sung-Yong , Stacey Gary , Boucher Richard C. , Gilroy Simon , Jones Alan M.
Published: July 2009

Amongst the many stimuli orienting the growth of plant roots, of critical importance are the touch signals generated as roots explore the mechanically complex soil environment. However, the molecular mechanisms behind these sensory events remain poorly defined. We report an impaired obstacle‐avoiding response of roots in Arabidopsis lacking a heterotrimeric G‐protein. Obstacle avoidance may utilize a touch‐induced release of ATP to the extracellular space. While sequential touch stimulation revealed a strong refractory period for ATP release in response to mechano‐stimulation in wild‐type plants, the refractory period in mutants was attenuated, resulting in extracellular ATP accumulation. We propose that ATP acts as an extracellular signal released by mechano‐stimulation and that the G‐protein complex is needed for fine‐tuning this response.