bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trends of Superoxide Dismutase and Soluble Protein of Aquatic Plants in Lakes of Different Trophic Levels in the Middle and Lower Reaches of the Yangtze River, China
Authors: Wu Ai‐Ping , Cao Te , Wu Shi‐Kai , Ni Le‐Yi , Xie Ping
Published: March 2009

A limnological study was carried out to determine the responses of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and soluble protein (SP) contents of 11 common aquatic plants to eutrophication stress. Field investigation in 12 lakes in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River was carried out from March to September 2004. Our results indicated that non‐submersed (emergent and floating‐leafed) plants and submersed plants showed different responses to eutrophication stress. Both SOD activities of the non‐submersed and submersed plants were negatively correlated with their SP contents (P< 0.000 1). SP contents of non‐submersed plants were significantly correlated with all nitrogen variables in the water (P< 0.05), whereas SP contents of submersed plants were only significantly correlated with carbon variables as well as ammonium and Secchi depth (SD) in water (P< 0.05). Only SOD activities of submersed plants were decreased with decline of SD in water (P< 0.001). Our results indicate that the decline of SOD activities of submersed plants were mainly caused by light limitation, this showed a coincidence with the decline of macrophytes in eutrophic lakes, which might imply that the antioxidant system of the submersed plants were impaired under eutrophication stress.
Overexpressing HRS1 Confers Hypersensitivity to Low Phosphate‐Elicited Inhibition of Primary Root Growth in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Liu Hong , Yang Huixia , Wu Chongming , Feng Juanjuan , Liu Xin , Qin Huanju , Wang Daowen
Published: March 2009

Phosphate (Pi) deficiency causes dramatic root system architecture (RSA) changes in higher plants. Here we report that overexpression of HRS1 leads to enhanced sensitivity to low Pi‐elicited inhibition of primary root growth in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. Bioinformatic investigations uncovered that HRS1 and its six homologs encode putative G2‐like transcription factors in Arabidopsis. Analysis of promoter::GUS reporter lines revealed that HRS1 transcripts were present mainly in the root hair region and root hair cells under Pi‐sufficient conditions. Pi deprivation increased HRS1 expression level and expanded its expression domain. Although HRS1 knockout mutant did not differ from wild type (WT) control irrespective of Pi status, its overexpression lines were significantly more susceptible to low Pi‐elicited primary root shortening. In both WT and HRS1 overexpression seedlings, low Pi‐induced primary root shortening was accompanied by enhanced root hair cell differentiation, but this enhancement occurred to a greater extent in the latter genotype. Collectively, our data suggest that HRS1 may be involved in the modulation of primary root and root hair growth in Pi‐deprived Arabidopsis seedlings, and provide useful clues for further research into the function of HRS1 and its homologs and the mechanisms behind RSA changes under Pi‐deficient conditions.
Cloning and characterization of a bursicon‐regulated gene Su(H) in the house fly Musca domestica
Authors: Wang Songjie , An Shiheng , Stanley David , Song Qisheng
Published: March 2009

Abstract  Bursicon is a neuropeptide that regulates cuticle sclerotization (hardening and tanning) in insect via a G‐protein coupled receptor. However, the signal transduction pathway downstream of the G‐protein coupled receptor is currently not well known. In our recent microarray analysis, we identified a panel of genes regulated by bursicon in Drosophila. One of the genes, Suppressor of Hairless, or Su(H), has drawn our attention because its product acts down‐stream of the bursicon receptor. In the present study, we cloned the Drosophila homolog, mdSu(H), from the house fly Musca domestica using 3′ and 5′ rapid amplification of complementary DNA ends. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that the level of mdSu(H) transcript is up‐regulated by ∼3‐fold 1 h after recombinant bursicon injection, which correlates well with the cuticle sclerotization process observed in the recombinant bursicon‐injected flies. We infer that Su(H) is an essential gene involved in the insect cuticle sclerotization process.
Impacts of sampling location within a faeces on DNA quality in two carnivore species
Authors: STENGLEIN J. L. , DE BARBA M. , AUSBAND D. E. , WAITS L. P.
Published: March 2009

We investigated the influence of sampling location within a faeces on DNA quality by sampling from both the outside and inside of 25 brown bear (Ursus arctos) scats and the side and the tip of 30 grey wolf (Canis lupus) scats. The outside of the bear scat and side of the wolf scat had significantly lower nuclear DNA microsatellite allelic dropout error rates (U. arctos: P = 0.017;C. lupus: P = 0.025) and significantly higher finalized genotyping success rates (U. arctos: P = 0.017;C. lupus: P = 0.012) than the tip and inside of the scat. A review of the faecal DNA literature indicated that <45% of studies report the sampling location within a faeces indicating that this methodological consideration is currently underappreciated. Based on our results, we recommend sampling from the side of canid scats and the outside portion of ursid scats to obtain higher quality DNA samples. The sampling location within a faeces should be carefully considered and reported as it can directly influence laboratory costs and efficiency, as well as the ability to obtain reliable genotypes.
The Value of Quality Grading in Remanufacturing
Authors: Ferguson Mark , Guide V. Daniel , Koca Eylem , Souza Gilvan C.
Published: March 2009

In this paper we consider a tactical production‐planning problem for remanufacturing when returns have different quality levels. Remanufacturing cost increases as the quality level decreases, and any unused returns may be salvaged at a value that increases with their quality level. Decision variables include the amount to remanufacture each period for each return quality level and the amount of inventory to carry over for future periods for both returns (unremanufactured), and finished remanufactured products. Our model is grounded with data collected at Pitney‐Bowes from their mailing systems remanufacturing operations. We derive some analytic properties for the optimal solution in the general case, and provide a simple greedy heuristic to computing the optimal solution in the case of deterministic returns and demand. Under mild assumptions, we find that the firm always remanufactures the exact demand in each period. We also study the value of a nominal quality‐grading system in planning production. Based on common industry parameters, we analyze, via a numerical study, the increase in profits observed by the firm if it maintains separate inventories for each quality grade. The results show that a grading system increases profit by an average of 4% over a wide range of parameter values commonly found in the remanufacturing industry; this number increases as the returns volume increases. We also numerically explore the case where there are capacity constraints and find the average improvement of a grading system remains around 4%.
The Role of Slotting Fees in the Coordination of Assortment Decisions
Authors: Aydιn Göker , Hausman Warren H.
Published: March 2009

Large numbers of new products introduced annually by manufacturers may strain the relationship between retailers and manufacturers regarding assortments carried by retailers. For example, many retailers in the grocery industry will agree to broaden their assortments only if the manufacturer agrees to pay slotting fees for the new products. We investigate the role played by slotting fees in coordinating the assortment decisions in a supply chain. To do so, we study a single‐retailer, single‐manufacturer supply chain, where the retailer decides what assortment to offer to end customers. Double marginalization results in a discrepancy between the retailer's optimal assortment and the assortment that maximizes total supply chain profits. We consider a payment scheme that is analogous to slotting fees used in the grocery industry: the manufacturer pays the retailer a per‐product fee for every product offered by the retailer in excess of a certain target level. We show that, if the wholesale price is below some threshold level, this payment scheme induces the retailer to offer the supply‐chain‐optimal assortment and makes both parties better off.
Hematologic, serum biochemical, and cortisol changes associated with anticipation of exercise and short duration high‐intensity exercise in sled dogs
Authors: Angle Craig T. , Wakshlag Joseph J. , Gillette Robert L. , Stokol Tracy , Geske Sue , Adkins Terry O. , Gregor Cara
Published: March 2009

Background:Many studies have demonstrated changes in clinicopathologic variables in response to exercise in athletic dogs. These changes have been attributed to the duration and intensity of exercise. However, inconsistencies in the timing of collection of resting blood samples can be a confounding variable when interpreting results.

Objectives:The objectives of this study were to determine whether hematologic and biochemical data in sled dogs are influenced by (1) anticipation of an exercise event or (2) short‐duration high‐intensity exercise.

Methods:Blood samples were collected into EDTA tubes and tubes without anticoagulant from sled dogs at rest, immediately before a 3‐mile run (preexercise), and immediately after the run (postexercise). A CBC, biochemical profile (including electrolytes, glucose, proteins, creatinine, urea, enzymes, cholesterol, and total bilirubin), and serum cortisol concentration were measured using standard methods on automated analyzers.

Results:Significant increases in sodium, chloride, albumin, calcium, and cortisol concentration were observed in preexercise samples when compared with resting samples. Hyperglycemia and a further rise in serum cortisol concentration occurred immediately postexercise.

Conclusions:The results of this study indicate that anticipation of exercise affects several biochemical analytes, emphasizing the importance of appropriate timing of baseline blood samples. The pronounced hyperglycemia immediately after short‐duration exercise may be a breed‐ or exercise‐dependent phenomenon.
Evaluation of platelet function screening tests to detect platelet procoagulant deficiency in dogs with Scott syndrome
Authors: Brooks Marjory B. , Randolph John , Warner Karen , Center Sharon
Published: March 2009

Background: Clinical diagnosis of platelet dysfunction is complex and technically challenging. The wide repertoire of platelet responses requires a test panel to assess different parameters of platelet reactivity. While “global” hemostasis analyzers and whole blood assays have potential for testing platelet function, their ability to evaluate platelet procoagulant activity is ill‐defined.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine whether platelet procoagulant deficiency, the pathophysiologic defect of Scott syndrome, could be detected in point‐of‐care and whole blood assays.

Methods: Study subjects were 4 Scott syndrome‐affected German Shepherds and 8 control dogs. We evaluated 2 point‐of‐care instruments: the platelet function analyzer (PFA‐100) and thromboelastograph (TEG). TEG analysis was performed on recalcified citrated whole blood with and without tissue‐factor activation. A whole blood flow cytometric assay was configured to detect thrombin‐induced platelet P‐selectin expression and platelet‐derived microparticle release. Cytometric samples were analyzed after 1 hour and 1 day of storage.

Results: We found no significant differences between Scott and control dogs in PFA‐100 COL/ADP closure times or in any TEG parameter in tissue‐factor–activated samples. In nonactivated samples, mean clotting time (K) and time to maximal rate of thrombus generation were significantly prolonged in Scott dogs; however, values overlapped with those of control dogs. Cytometric analysis of samples from Scott dogs showed significantly diminished platelet‐derived microparticle release. Samples from all dogs reanalyzed after 1 day of storage had nonspecific increases in basal P‐selectin expression and vesiculation.

Conclusion: A whole blood cytometric assay to detect stimulated platelet microparticle release can be used to screen for Scott syndrome. However, platelet activation artifacts preclude overnight storage for next‐day analysis.
Modeling of Melting, Evaporating, and Resolidifying Procedure in Laser-Induced Metal Processing
Authors: Shin Seungwon , Chung Haseung
Published: March 2009

In this paper, we present a one-dimensional (1D) melting, evaporating, and resolidifying model describing the interaction of a scanning laser beam with a metal surface wherein the continuous and stepwise heat flux is applied. One set of 1D conduction equations, which is valid in all phases including solid, liquid, and vapor, has been developed along with two phase boundary conditions between the solid/liquid and liquid/air using an appropriate scaling law. The 1D heat equation has been solved separately in each phase using a sharp interface temperature technique based on the front tracking method. The generalized relations of nondimensional maximum melting depth, final evaporation depth, and maximum melting time related to nondimensional interaction time and heat flux factor are established.
Numerical Analysis of Ultrashort Pulse Laser-Material Interaction Using ABAQUS
Authors: Lee Dongkyun , Kannatey-Asibu Elijah
Published: March 2009

Ultrafast lasers of subpicosecond pulse duration have thus far been investigated for ablation, drilling, and cutting processes. Ultrafast lasers also have the potential for laser welding of small components of the order of microns and for laser shock peening to enhance the peening depth. In this paper, the potential for welding is investigated using the two-temperature model to analyze laser-matter interaction for ultrafast lasers. The model is implemented in a general-purpose commercial finite element method package, ABAQUS, to enable broad based application of the two-temperature model in practical engineering problems. The implementation is validated by comparison with linear solutions obtained using separation of variables. It is then used to investigate the potential for microwelding using ultrafast laser pulse for both low and high fluence laser input.
Empirical Dynamic Modeling of Friction Stir Welding Processes
Authors: Zhao Xin , Kalya Prabhanjana , Landers Robert G. , Krishnamurthy K.
Published: March 2009

Current friction stir welding (FSW) process modeling research is mainly concerned with the detailed analysis of local effects such as material flow, heat generation, etc. These detailed thermomechanical models are typically solved using finite element or finite difference schemes and require substantial computational effort to determine temperature, forces, etc., at a single point in time, or for a very short time range. Dynamic models describing the total forces acting on the tool throughout the entire welding process are required for the design of feedback control strategies and improved process planning and analysis. In this paper, empirical models relating the process parameters (i.e., plunge depth, travel speed, and rotation speed) to the process variables (i.e., axial, path, and normal forces) are developed to understand their dynamic relationships. First, the steady-state relationships between the process parameters and the process variables are constructed, and the relative importance of each process parameter on each process variable is determined. Next, the dynamic characteristics of the process variables are determined using recursive least-squares. The results indicate the steady-state relationship between the process parameters and the process variables is well characterized by a nonlinear power relationship, and the dynamic responses are well characterized by low-order linear equations. Experiments are conducted that validate the developed FSW dynamic models.
Examination of Selective Pulsed Laser Micropolishing on Microfabricated Nickel Samples Using Spatial Frequency Analysis
Authors: Perry Tyler L. , Werschmoeller Dirk , Duffie Neil A. , Li Xiaochun , Pfefferkorn Frank E.
Published: March 2009

The precision of parts created by microfabrication processes is limited by surface roughness. Therefore, as a means of improving surface roughness, pulsed laser micropolishing on nickel was examined numerically and experimentally. A one-dimensional finite element method model was used to estimate the melt depth and duration for single 50–300 ns laser pulses. The critical frequency was introduced to predict the effectiveness of polishing in the spatial frequency domain. A 1064 nm Nd:YAG laser with 300 ns pulses was used to experimentally investigate pulsed laser polishing on microfabricated nickel samples with microscale line features. A microfabricated sample with 2.5 μm wide and 0.2 μm high lines spaced 5 μm apart and one with 5 μm wide and 0.38 μm high lines spaced 10 μm apart were polished with 300 ns long pulses of 47.2 J/cm2 and 44.1 J/cm2 fluences, respectively. The critical frequency for these experimental conditions was predicted and compared with the reduction in the average surface roughness measured for samples with two different spatial frequency contents. The average surface roughness of 5 μm and 10 μm wavelength line features were reduced from 0.112 μm to 0.015 μm and from 0.112 μm to 0.059 μm, respectively. Four regimes of pulsed laser micropolishing are identified as a function of laser fluence for a given pulse width: (1) at low fluences no polishing occurs due to insufficient melting, (2) moderate fluences allow sufficient melt time for surface wave damping and significant smoothing occurs, (3) increasing fluence reduces smoothing, and (4) high fluences cause roughening due to large recoil pressure and ablation. Significant improvements in average surface roughness can be achieved by pulsed laser micropolishing if the dominant frequency content of the original surface features is above the critical spatial frequency for polishing.
Molecular Investigations ofRickettsia helveticaInfection in Dogs, Foxes, Humans, andIxodesTicks
Authors: Boretti Felicitas S. , Perreten Andrea , Meli Marina L. , Cattori Valentino , Willi Barbara , Wengi Nicole , Hornok Sándor , Honegger Hanspeter , Hegglin Daniel , Woelfel Roman , Reusch Claudia E. , Lutz Hans , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina
Published: March 2009

Rickettsia helvetica, a tick-borne member of the spotted-fever-group rickettsiae, is a suspected pathogen in humans; however, its role in animals is unknown. The aims of this study were to establish aR. helvetica-specific real-time TaqMan PCR assay and apply it to the analysis of tick vectors (to determine potential exposure risk) and blood samples fromCanidaeand humans (to determine prevalence of infection). The newly designed 23S rRNA gene assay forR. helveticawas more sensitive than a published citrate synthase gene (gltA) assay for several rickettsiae. Blood samples from 884 dogs, 58 foxes, and 214 human patients and 2,073 ticks (Ixodesspp.) collected from either vegetation or animals were analyzed. Although the maximal likelihood estimate of prevalence was 12% in unfed ticks and 36% in ticks collected from animals, none of the 1,156 blood samples tested PCR positive. Ticks from cats were more frequently PCR positive than ticks from dogs. Sequencing of the 23S rRNA and/or thegltAgene of 17 tick pools confirmed the presence ofR. helvetica. Additionally,Rickettsia monacensis, which has not been previously found in Switzerland, was identified. In conclusion,R. helveticawas frequently detected in the tick population but not in blood samples. Nevertheless, due to the broad host range ofIxodesticks and the high rate of infestation with this agent (i.e.,R. helveticawas 13 times more frequent in unfed ticks than the tick-borne encephalitis virus), many mammals may be exposed toR. helvetica. The PCR assay described here represents an important tool for studying this topic.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Rugose Small-Colony Variants Have Adaptations That Likely Promote Persistence in the Cystic Fibrosis Lung
Authors: Starkey Melissa , Hickman Jason H. , Ma Luyan , Zhang Niu , De Long Susan , Hinz Aaron , Palacios Sergio , Manoil Colin , Kirisits Mary Jo , Starner Timothy D. , Wozniak Daniel J. , Harwood Caroline S. , Parsek Matthew R.
Published: March 2009

Pseudomonas aeruginosa
is recognized for its ability to colonize diverse habitats, ranging from soil to immunocompromised people. The formation of surface-associated communities called biofilms is one factor thought to enhance colonization and persistence in these diverse environments. Another factor is the ability of
P. aeruginosa
to diversify genetically, generating phenotypically distinct subpopulations. One manifestation of diversification is the appearance of colony morphology variants on solid medium. Both laboratory biofilm growth and chronic cystic fibrosis (CF) airway infections produce rugose small-colony variants (RSCVs) characterized by wrinkled, small colonies and an elevated capacity to form biofilms. Previous reports vary on the characteristics attributable to RSCVs. Here we report a detailed comparison of clonally related wild-type and RSCV strains isolated from both CF sputum and laboratory biofilm cultures. The clinical RSCV had many characteristics in common with biofilm RSCVs. Transcriptional profiling and Biolog phenotypic analysis revealed that RSCVs display increased expression of the
pel
and
psl
polysaccharide gene clusters, decreased expression of motility functions, and a defect in growth on some amino acid and tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates as sole carbon sources. RSCVs also elicited a reduced chemokine response from polarized airway epithelium cells compared to wild-type strains. A common feature of all RSCVs analyzed in this study is increased levels of the intracellular signaling molecule cyclic di-GMP (c-di-GMP). To assess the global transcriptional effects of elevated c-di-GMP levels, we engineered an RSCV strain that had elevated c-di-GMP levels but did not autoaggregate. Our results showed that about 50 genes are differentially expressed in response to elevated intracellular c-di-GMP levels. Among these genes are the
pel
and
psl
genes, which are upregulated, and flagellum and pilus genes, which are downregulated. RSCV traits such as increased exopolysaccharide production leading to antibiotic tolerance, altered metabolism, and reduced immunogenicity may contribute to increased persistence in biofilms and in the airways of CF lungs.
Identification of the Asparagine Synthase Responsible for
d
-Asp Amidation in the
Lactococcus lactis
Peptidoglycan Interpeptide Crossbridge
Authors: Veiga Patrick , Erkelenz Michael , Bernard Elvis , Courtin Pascal , Kulakauskas Saulius , Chapot-Chartier Marie-Pierre
Published: March 2009

We show that in
Lactococcus lactis
, the gene
asnH
encodes the asparagine synthase involved in amidation of
d
-Asp present in peptidoglycan side chains and crossbridges. The level of
d
-Asp amidation in peptidoglycan has a strong effect on the sensitivity of bacteria to endogenous autolysins and to the cationic antimicrobials nisin and lysozyme.
Diversifying and Stabilizing Selection of Sialidase and
N
-Acetylneuraminate Catabolism in
Mycoplasma synoviae
Authors: May Meghan , Brown Daniel R.
Published: March 2009

Sialidase activity varies widely among strains and tends to correlate with strain virulence in the avian pathogen
Mycoplasma synoviae
. To characterize the forms of selection acting on enzymes required for sialic acid scavenging and catabolism, the ratios of nonsynonymous (

K
a

) to synonymous (

K
s

) mutation frequency were calculated for codons in the sialidase gene of 16 strains of
M. synoviae
and for its nearly identical homolog in four strains of
Mycoplasma gallisepticum
. The

K
a

/

K
s

(ω) values for the linked genes required for nutritive
N
-acetylneuraminate catabolism (
nanA
,
nagC
,
nanE
,
nagA
, and
nagB
) from nine strains of
M. synoviae
were also determined. To provide context, ω was determined for all corresponding genes of 26 strains of
Clostridium perfringens
and
Streptococcus pneumoniae
. Bayesian models of sequence evolution showed that only the sialidase of
M. synoviae
was under significant (
P
< 0.001) diversifying selection, while the
M. synoviae
genes for
N
-acetylneuraminate catabolism and all genes examined from
M. gallisepticum
,
C. perfringens
, and
S. pneumoniae
were under neutral to stabilizing selection. Diversifying selection acting on the sialidase of
M. synoviae
, but not on the sialidase of
M. gallisepticum
or the sialidases or other enzymes essential for sialic acid scavenging in other
Firmicutes
, is evidence that variation in specific activity of the enzyme is perpetuated by a nonnutritive function in
M. synoviae
that is influenced by the genomic context of the organism.
Regulation of the
Bacillus subtilis
Divergent
yetL
and
yetM
Genes by a Transcriptional Repressor, YetL, in Response to Flavonoids
Authors: Hirooka Kazutake , Danjo Yusuke , Hanano Yuki , Kunikane Satoshi , Matsuoka Hiroshi , Tojo Shigeo , Fujita Yasutaro
Published: March 2009

DNA microarray analysis revealed that transcription of the
Bacillus subtilis yetM
gene encoding a putative flavin adenine dinucleotide-dependent monooxygenase was triggered by certain flavonoids during culture and was derepressed by disruption of the
yetL
gene in the opposite orientation situated immediately upstream of
yetM
, which encodes a putative MarR family transcriptional regulator. In vitro analyses, including DNase I footprinting and gel retardation analysis, indicated that YetL binds specifically to corresponding single sites in the divergent
yetL
and
yetM
promoter regions, with higher affinity to the
yetM
region; the former region overlaps the Shine-Dalgarno sequence of
yetL
, and the latter region contains a perfect 18-bp palindromic sequence (TAGTTAGGCGCCTAACTA). In vitro gel retardation and in vivo
lacZ
fusion analyses indicated that some flavonoids (kaempferol, apigenin, and luteolin) effectively inhibit YetL binding to the
yetM cis
sequence, but quercetin, galangin, and chrysin do not inhibit this binding, implying that the 4-hydroxyl group on the B-ring of the flavone structure is indispensable for this inhibition and that the coexistence of the 3-hydroxyl groups on the B- and C-rings does not allow antagonism of YetL.
The Conserved Sporulation Protein YneE Inhibits DNA Replication in
Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Rahn-Lee Lilah , Gorbatyuk Boris , Skovgaard Ole , Losick Richard
Published: March 2009

Cells of
Bacillus subtilis
triggered to sporulate under conditions of rapid growth undergo a marked decrease in chromosome copy number, which was partially relieved by a mutation in the sporulation-induced gene
yneE
. Cells engineered to express
yneE
during growth were impaired in viability and produced anucleate cells. We conclude that YneE is an inhibitor of DNA replication.
Researchers’ preferences and attitudes on ethical aspects of genomics research: a comparative study between the USA and Spain
Authors: Ruiz-Canela M , Valle-Mansilla J I , Sulmasy D P
Published: March 2009

Introduction:

The use of human samples in genomic research has increased ethical debate about informed consent (IC) requirements and the information that subjects should receive regarding the results of the research. However, there are no quantitative data regarding researchers’ attitudes about these issues.

Methods:

We present the results of a survey of 104 US and 100 Spanish researchers who had published genomic epidemiology studies in 61 journals during 2006.

Results:

Researchers preferred a broader IC than the IC they had actually obtained in their published papers. US authors were more likely than their Spanish colleagues to support obtaining a broad IC, covering either any future research project or any projects related to a group of diseases (67.6% vs 43%; adjusted OR  = 4.84, 95% CI, 2.32 to 10.12). A slight majority of researchers (55.8%) supported informing participants about individual genomic results only if the reliability and clinical validity of the information had been established. Men were more likely than women to believe that patients should be informed of research results even if these conditions were not met (adjusted OR  = 2.89, 95% CI  = 1.46 to 5.72).

Conclusions:

This study provides evidence of a wide range of views among scientists regarding some controversial ethical issues related to genomic research, suggesting the need for more study, debate and education. In the interim, journals might consider including the investigators’ policies regarding these ethical issues in the papers they publish in the field of genomic epidemiology.
Financial incentives for patients in the treatment of psychosis
Authors: Szmukler G
Published: March 2009

Poor medication adherence in patients with a psychosis is associated with relapse. It has been proposed that outcomes might be improved by using financial incentives for treatment adherence (FITA). However, a strong moral intuition against this practice has been found. This paper examines the ethics of FITA.

Three arguments are presented, which if accepted would severely restrict or even prohibit the practice. These are based on (1) “incommensurable values”, where FITA denigrates an aspect of “respect for the person”, (2) “exploitation”, where unfair advantage is taken of the patient, and (3) “fairness”, where it is difficult to draw a line between those who should and should not be offered payment. A number of practical impediments are also considered.
Evolving Prosocial and Sustainable Neighborhoods and Communities
Authors: Biglan Anthony , Hinds Erika
Published: March 2009

In this review, we examine randomized controlled trials of community interventions to affect health. The evidence supports the efficacy of community interventions for preventing tobacco, alcohol, and other drug use; several recent trials have shown the benefits of community interventions for preventing multiple problems of young people, including antisocial behavior. However, the next generation of community intervention research needs to reflect more fully the fact that most psychological and behavioral problems of humans are interrelated and result from the same environmental conditions. The evidence supports testing new comprehensive community interventions that focus on increasing nurturance in communities. Nurturing communities will be ones in which families, schools, neighborhoods, and workplaces (a) minimize biologically and socially toxic events, (b) richly reinforce prosocial behavior, and (c) foster psychological acceptance. Such interventions also have the potential to make neighborhoods more sustainable.
Adolescent Development and Juvenile Justice
Authors: Steinberg Laurence
Published: March 2009

Although justice system policy and practice cannot, and should not, be dictated solely by studies of adolescent development, the ways in which we respond to juvenile offending should be informed by the lessons of developmental science. This review begins with a brief overview of the history, rationale, and workings of the American juvenile justice system. Following this, I summarize findings from studies of brain, cognitive, and psychosocial development in adolescence that have implications for the treatment of juveniles in the justice system. The utility of developmental science in this context is illustrated by the application of these research findings to three fundamental issues in contemporary justice policy: the criminal culpability of adolescents, adolescents' competence to stand trial, and the impact of punitive sanctions on adolescents' development and behavior. Taken together, the lessons of developmental science offer strong support for the maintenance of a separate juvenile justice system in which adolescents are judged, tried, and sanctioned in developmentally appropriate ways.
Differences in collagen cross-linking between the four valves of the bovine heart: a possible role in adaptation to mechanical fatigue
Authors: Aldous Ian G. , Veres Samuel P. , Jahangir Alireza , Lee J. Michael
Published: March 2009

Hydrothermal isometric tension (HIT) testing and high-performance liquid chromatography were used to assess the molecular stability and cross-link population of collagen in the four valves of the adult bovine heart. Untreated and NaBH4-treated tissues under isometric tension were heated in a water bath to a 90°C isotherm that was sustained for 5 h. The denaturation temperature (Td), associated with hydrogen bond rupture and molecular stability, and the half-time of load decay ( t1/2), associated with peptide bond hydrolysis and intermolecular cross-linking, were calculated from acquired load/temperature/time data. An unpaired group of samples of the same population was biochemically assayed for the types and quantities of enzymatic cross-links present. Tissues known to endure higher in vivo transvalvular pressures had lower Tdvalues, suggesting that molecular stability is inversely related to in vivo loading. The treated inflow valves (mitral and tricuspid) had significantly lower t1/2values than did treated outflow valves (aortic and pulmonary), suggesting lower overall cross-linking in the inflow valves. Inflow valves were also found to fail during HIT testing significantly more often than outflow valves, also suggestive of a decreased cross-link population. Inflow valves may be remodeling at a faster rate and may be at an earlier state of molecular “maturity” than outflow valves. At the molecular level, the thermal stability of collagen is associated with in vivo loading and may be influenced by the mature, aldimine-derived cross-link, histidinohydroxylysinonorleucine. We conclude that the valves of the heart utilize differing, location-specific strategies to resist biomechanical fatigue loading.
Carcinoembryonic cell adhesion molecule 6 in human lung: regulated expression of a multifunctional type II cell protein
Authors: Kolla Venkatadri , Gonzales Linda W. , Bailey Nicole A. , Wang Ping , Angampalli Sreedevi , Godinez Marye H. , Madesh Muniswamy , Ballard Philip L.
Published: March 2009

Carcinoembryonic cell adhesion molecule 6 (CEACAM6) is a glycosylated, glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored protein expressed in epithelial cells of various human tissues. It binds gram-negative bacteria and is overexpressed in cancers, where it is antiapoptotic and promotes metastases. To characterize CEACAM6 expression in developing lung, we cultured human fetal lung epithelial cells and examined responses to differentiation-promoting hormones, adenovirus expressing thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1), and silencing of TTF-1 with small inhibitory RNA. Glucocorticoid and cAMP had additive stimulatory effects on CEACAM6 content, and combined treatment maximally increased transcription rate, mRNA, and protein ∼10-fold. Knockdown of TTF-1 reduced hormone induction of CEACAM6 by 80%, and expression of recombinant TTF-1 increased CEACAM6 in a dose-dependent fashion. CEACAM6 content of lung tissue increased during the third trimester and postnatally. By immunostaining, CEACAM6 was present in fetal type II cells, but not mesenchymal cells, and localized to both the plasma membrane and within surfactant-containing lamellar bodies. CEACAM6 was secreted from cultured type II cells and was present in both surfactant and supernatant fractions of infant tracheal aspirates. In functional studies, CEACAM6 reduced inhibition of surfactant surface properties by proteins in vitro and blocked apoptosis of electroporated cultured cells. We conclude that CEACAM6 in fetal lung epithelial cells is developmentally and hormonally regulated and a target protein for TTF-1. Because CEACAM6 acts as an antiapoptotic factor and stabilizes surfactant function, in addition to a putative role in innate defense against bacteria, we propose that it is a multifunctional alveolar protein.
Bifocal Stereoscopic Vision for Intelligent Vehicles
Authors: Rovira-Más Francisco , Wang Qi , Zhang Qin
Published: March 2009

The numerous benefits of real-time 3D awareness for autonomous vehicles have motivated the incorporation of stereo cameras to the perception units of intelligent vehicles. The availability of the distance between camera and objects is essential for such applications as automatic guidance and safeguarding; however, a poor estimation of the position of the objects in front of the vehicle can result in dangerous actions. There is an emphasis, therefore, in the design of perception engines that can make available a rich and reliable interval of ranges in front of the camera. The objective of this research is to develop a stereo head that is capable of capturing 3D information from two cameras simultaneously, sensing different, but complementary, fields of view. In order to do so, the concept of bifocal perception was defined and physically materialized in an experimental bifocal stereo camera. The assembled system was validated through field tests, and results showed that each stereo pair of the head excelled at a singular range interval. The fusion of both intervals led to a more faithful representation of reality.
Multiple Bone Metastasis of Sclerosing Epithelioid Fibrosarcoma 12 Years after Initial Surgery—Increasing Ki-67 Labeling Index
Authors: Kanno Atsuko , Hatori Masahito , Hosaka Masami , Kishimoto Koshi N. , Watanuki Munenori , Watanabe Mika , Itoi Eiji
Published: March 2009

Sclerosing epithelioid fibrosarcoma (SEF) is a rare sarcoma of low-grade malignancy. There has been no report to describe the comparison of histological features of SEF between primary and metastatic lesions in spite of high local recurrence rate. We report the histological changes and increasing Ki-67 labeling index of the primary and metastatic lesions of SEF. The patient was a 31-year-old man. At 18, a tumor in the abdominal wall was excised. At 23, the tumor recurred which was removed again. At 30, he was referred to our hospital because of swelling and pain in the chest. Histological examination of the chest wall tumor showed epithelioid cells arranged like alveolar pattern with dense collagen stroma. These findings were consistent with those of SEF. Abdominal and the rib tumors showed the same immunohistochemistrical expression. It is noteworthy that the tumor cells of the rib lesion showed increased cellularity, and its Ki-67 activity was higher as compared with the abdominal tumor, suggestive of progression of malignancy of SEF.
The Development of Theory of Mind Reasoning in Micronesian Children
Authors: Oberle Eva
Published: March 2009

In this study, the development of false-belief understanding was investigated among 3–5-year-old Yapese and Fais children in Micronesia. Sixty-nine children took part in an experiment investigating their understanding of false belief with a culturally adjusted surprise content task, which has been widely used in Theory of Mind (ToM) research and was first introduced by Hogrefe, Wimmer and Perner (1986). The results show that as in western cultures, 3-year-old Micronesian preschoolers do not display understanding of false belief measured with classical false-belief tasks, while 5-year-olds do. These findings contribute to research on the universality and cultural variability of cognitive development in preschool age children.
Inclusive Networks for Building BOP Markets
Authors: Reficco Ezequiel , Márquez Patricia
Published: March 2009

The idea that business can play a role in alleviating poverty has caught the imagination of academics and practitioners alike. An emerging consensus points to the critical importance of partnerships in market initiatives addressed to the base of the pyramid (BOP). But despite the calls for cross sector partnerships in BOP initiatives, our collective understanding of how these actually work has not advanced proportionally. This study attempts to address this issue by examining the dynamics at play in nine networks that integrated the BOP with mainstream markets in nine developing nations of North, Central, and South America. Our field-based analysis generated a number of tentative propositions structured around three broad issue-areas: alliance formation (drivers that compelled companies to engage in strategic partnerships), alliance implementation (choice of governance mechanisms, resources for enhancing trust and reciprocity between partners, and conflict-resolution mechanisms), and performance outcome (the extent to which an organization’s commitment to an alliance impacted its performance and its societal context).
Permanent and Seasonal Residents’ Community Attachment in Natural Amenity-Rich Areas
Authors: Matarrita-Cascante David , Stedman Richard , Luloff A.E.
Published: March 2009

Previous work on amenity-driven migration documented substantial differences between permanent and seasonal residents and the effects of these differences on community social dimensions. This study focuses on seasonal and permanent residents’ attachments to their local area. To increase our understanding of those factors associated with community attachment in amenity-rich areas, we incorporate attitudinal and behavioral measures associated with the biophysical environment in our model. We find natural landscape-based factors make an independent and important contribution to community attachment for both permanent and seasonal residents.
Merton's Flawed and Incomplete Methodological Program
Authors: Crothers Charles
Published: March 2009

Particularly during the 1940s, Robert Merton developed a loosely knit methodological program including such key concepts as “structure and functional analysis” and “middle range theories” which provided guidance for sociological work over several decades and which retains some considerable relevance today. However, there are inconsistencies and incompletions in this program which have become more problematic over time. The paper questions the depth of these difficulties and also points out that in the historical circumstances of a limited stimulus provided by the paucity of critique written at the time and Robert Merton's operational style, it is not surprising that difficulties were not attended to.
Participation and Decision Making in Local Spaces in Cuba
Authors: Nápoles Rodríguez Elena
Published: March 2009

Popular participation is one of the foundational principles of Cuba's political and social project, and the system of Popular Power—an intricate network of decision-making bodies at various levels—is its richest expression. A case study of the system as it operates in one municipality in Havana from the perspective of communication studies reveals its democratic-participatory possibilities. At the same time, it points to organizational, structural, and even subjective elements that threaten its practical implementation. These problems have not escaped the attention of the National Assembly of Popular Power, which has produced a detailed list of steps to be taken to improve the articulation of the system's various institutional components. A more participatory Popular Power, with increasingly horizontal and inclusive practices, would play a crucial role in a genuine project of social self-government.
Revolutionary Cuba at 50
Authors: Brundenius Claes
Published: March 2009

A balance sheet of the Cuban Revolution in terms of growth performance, equity, and the satisfaction of basic needs after 50 years is a mixed bag. Growth performance has been disappointing during most of the past 25 years, although there are today some encouraging new trends. Income distribution that was quite equal in 1985 has seen some deterioration since 1990. Agriculture has been one of the failures, and the question is raised whether current reforms are sufficient to redress this situation. The success stories of the revolution are education, health, and international solidarity.
Ferritin Expression in Rat Hepatocytes and Kupffer Cells after Lead Nitrate Treatment
Authors: Fan Yang , Yamada Toshiyuki , Shimizu Takeshi , Nanashima Naoki , Akita Miki , Suto Kohji , Tsuchida Shigeki
Published: March 2009

Lead nitrate induces hepatocyte proliferation and subsequent apoptosis in rat livers. Iron is a constituent of heme and is also required for cell proliferation. In this study, the expression of ferritin light-chain (FTL), the major iron storage protein, was investigated in rat livers after a single intravenous injection of lead nitrate. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry revealed that FTL was increased in hepatocytes around the central veins and strongly expressed in nonparenchymal cells. Some FTL-positive nonparenchymal cells were identified as Kupffer cells that were positive for CD68. FTL-positive Kupffer cells occupied about 60% of CD68-positive cells in the periportal and perivenous areas. The relationships between FTL expression and apoptosis induction or the engulfment of apoptotic cells were examined. TUNEL-positive cells were increased in the treatment group, and enhanced expression of milk fat globule EGF-like 8 was demonstrated in some Kupffer cells and hepatocytes, indicating enhanced apoptosis induction and phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. FTL-positive Kupffer cells were not detected without lead nitrate treatment or in rat livers treated with clofibrate, which induces hepatocyte proliferation but not apoptosis. These results suggest that FTL expression in Kupffer cells after lead treatment is dependent on phagocytosis of apoptotic cells.
In Utero and Postnatal Exposure to Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) Alters Alveolar and Respiratory Bronchiole (RB) Growth and Development in Infant Monkeys
Authors: Avdalovic Mark , Putney Lei , Tyler Nancy , Finkbeiner Walter , Pinkerton Kent , Hyde Dallas
Published: March 2009

The direct effect of environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure in utero on the development of the lung parenchyma is not known. We used design-based stereologic methods to evaluate in utero and postnatal ETS exposure on alveolar and respiratory bronchiole (RB) development in the rhesus macaque.

Methods

Timed-pregnant rhesus macaques and their offspring were exposed to filtered air or various amounts of ETS during the prenatal and postnatal period. The left cranial lobe from necropsied infants was evaluated by design-based stereological methods and general pathological review.

Results

Infants in the in utero and six-month ETS groups had an 18% and 17% relative decrease, respectively, in alveolar number and a 57% and 33% increase, respectively, in alveolar size compared to filtered air (FA) monkeys. Lung volume positively correlated with alveolar number in the FA and six-month ETS group and negatively correlated in the in utero ETS group. The distribution of alveolar size was much more variable in the in utero group. Overall, RB volume was significantly increased in the six-month ETS group ( p < .04).

Conclusions

Taken together, these results indicate that in utero and postnatal ETS exposure is associated with altered parenchymal lung development.
The effect of risperidone on D-amino acid oxidase activity as a hypothesis for a novel mechanism of action in the treatment of schizophrenia
Authors: Abou El-Magd RM , Park HK , Kawazoe T. , Iwana S. , Ono K. , Chung SP , Miyano M. , Yorita K. , Sakai T. , Fukui K.
Published: March 2009

D-Amino acid oxidase (DAO) has been established to be involved in the oxidation of D-serine, an allosteric activator of the N-methyl-D-aspartate-type glutamate receptor in the brain, and to be associated with the onset of schizophrenia. The effect of risperidone, a benzisoxazole derivative, atypical antischizophrenic drug, on the activity of human DAO was tested using an in-vitro oxygraph system and rat C6, stable C6 transformant cells overexpressing mouse DAO (designated as C6/DAO) and pig kidney epithelial cells (LLC-PK1). Risperidone has a hyperbolic mixed-type inhibition, designated as ‘partial uncompetitive inhibition effect’, with Kivalue of 41 μM on human DAO. Risperidone exhibited a protective effect from D-amino acid induced cell death in both C6/DAO and LLC-PK1cells with 10% increase in viability. These data indicate the involvement of DAO activity in D-serine metabolism and also suggest a new mechanism of action to risperidone as antischizophrenic drug.