bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C‐type natriuretic peptide regulation of guanosine‐3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphate production in human endothelial cells
Authors: Rautureau Y. , Gowers I. , Wheeler‐Jones C. P. D. , Baxter G. F.
Published: January 2010

1 In vascular smooth muscle cells, relaxant actions of guanosine‐‐3′,5′‐cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) are well recognized, but there is increasing evidence that cGMP also plays regulatory roles in vascular endothelium. However, the autacoid and endocrine mechanisms controlling cGMP production in endothelium are not well understood. The objective of these studies was to examine the mechanisms of cGMP accumulation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in response to natriuretic peptides.

2 Expression in HUVEC of natriuretic peptide receptors, particulate guanylyl cyclases (GC)‐A and GC‐B, was confirmed by RT‐PCR and Western blot analysis.

3 In the presence of the phosphodiesterase inhibitor IBMX 500 μm, 3 h incubation of HUVEC with B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) (preferential GC‐A agonist) or C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP) (preferential GC‐B agonist) stimulated concentration‐dependent increases in cGMP production. At 10 and 100 nm, we observed two to three‐fold greater potency of CNP compared to BNP.

4 In the absence of IBMX, CNP‐stimulated cGMP accumulation was significantly less than cGMP accumulation in response to sodium nitroprusside 1 mm. This greater sensitivity of GC‐B‐derived cGMP to phosphodiesterases suggests compartmentalization of two pools of cGMP from particulate and soluble guanylyl cyclases.

5 Although CNP 100 nm and 1 μm was observed to increase nitrite + nitrate (stable metabolites of NO) production in HUVEC two‐fold above basal level, the soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor ODQ 10 μm did not significantly modify CNP‐stimulated cGMP accumulation suggesting that endothelial actions of CNP may be NO‐independent.

6 In conclusion, these studies indicate functional signaling by natriuretic peptides in endothelial cells, supporting possible roles of these mediators in regulating endothelial cell function.
Caveolae‐mediated entry of Salmonella typhimurium into senescent nonphagocytotic host cells
Authors: Lim Jae Sung , Choy Hyon E , Park Sang Chul , Han Jung Min , Jang Ik‐Soon , Cho Kyung A
Published: January 2010

Elderly individuals have an increased susceptibility to microbial infections because of age‐related anatomical, physiological, and environmental factors. However, the mechanism of aging‐dependent susceptibility to infection is not fully understood. Here, we found that caveolae‐dependent endocytosis is elevated in senescent cells. Thus, we focused on the implications of caveolae‐dependent endocytosis using Salmonella typhimurium, which causes a variety of diseases in humans and animals by invading the eukaryotic host cell. Salmonella invasion increased in nonphagocytotic senescent host cells in which caveolin‐1 was also increased. When caveolae structures were disrupted by methyl‐β‐cyclodextrin or siRNA of caveolin‐1 in the senescent cells, Salmonellae invasion was reduced markedly compared to that in nonsenescent cells. In contrast, the over‐expression of caveolin‐1 led to increased Salmonellae invasion in nonsenescent cells. Moreover, in aged mice, caveolin‐1 was found to be highly expressed in Peyer’s patch and spleen, which are targets for infection by Salmonellae. These results suggest that high levels of caveolae and caveolin‐1 in senescent host cells might be related to the increased susceptibility of elderly individuals to microbial infections.
Brain electrical activity during food presentation in obese binge‐eating women
Authors: Tammela Liisa I. , Pääkkönen Ari , Karhunen Leila J. , Karhu Jari , Uusitupa Matti I. J. , Kuikka Jyrki T.
Published: January 2010

Binge‐eating (BE) subjects have shown altered brain activity at frontal regions during food presentation. The aim of this study was to examine the frontal brain electrical activity in obese BE women (n = 12) and in obese women without BE (non‐BE, n = 13). Brain electrical activity was measured using a quantitative electroencephalography during a resting state (eyes‐closed) and when the subjects focused (eyes‐open) their attention on a picture of a landscape (control experiment) or on a meal (food experiment). The BE showed greater frontal beta activity (14–20 Hz) than the non‐BE in both the eyes‐closed (on average 52%) and the eyes‐open situations and independently of the stimulus (control experiment: 57% and food experiment: 71%). No significant differences between the groups were found in alpha, delta or theta amplitudes. Increased beta activity correlated positively with the disinhibition factor of the Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire. Thus, our results suggest that elevated frontal beta activity may be a marker of dysfunctional disinhibition–inhibition mechanism, which could make the obese BE women more vulnerable or sensitive to food and the environmental cues.
The Potential Role of Stream Habitat Restoration in Facilitating Salmonid Invasions: A Habitat‐Hydraulic Modeling Approach
Authors: Korsu Kai , Huusko Ari , Korhonen Pekka K. , Yrjänä Timo
Published: January 2010

Many successful invasions have taken place in systems where harmful disturbance has changed habitat conditions. However, less attention has been paid to the role of habitat restoration, which modifies habitats and thus also has the potential to facilitate invasions. We examined whether in‐stream habitat restorations have the potential to either facilitate or resist invasion by two widely introduced non‐native stream salmonids, Salvelinus fontinalis Mitchill and Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum, in Finland. A physical habitat simulation system was used to calculate whether the habitat area for the target species increased or decreased following the restorations. For comparison, we also reported results for four native stream fish species. The simulations showed that the restored streams provided the highest amount of usable habitat area for the native species, particularly for Salmo salar L. and Gottus gobio L. However, it was interesting to note that the restorations significantly increased habitat quality for the two non‐native species, especially at low flows. Nevertheless, the non‐native species had the lowest amount of usable habitat area overall. The modeling results indicated that not only habitat destruction but also habitat restoration could contribute to the spread of non‐native species. Fisheries and wildlife managers should be aware of the possibility, when restoring habitats in order to preserve native ecosystems, that non‐native species could manage to gain a foothold in restored habitats and use them as population sources for further spread. Knowing the widespread negative effect of non‐native species, this risk should not be underestimated.
Higher Prevalence of Psychopathological Symptoms in Adolescents With Headache. A Population‐Based Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Milde‐Busch Astrid , Boneberger Anja , Heinrich Sabine , Thomas Silke , Kühnlein Anja , Radon Katja , Straube Andreas , Von Kries Rüdiger
Published: January 2010

(Headache 2010;50:738‐748)

Background.— Headache is commonly voiced by adolescents and is known to be associated with reduced quality of life. Otherwise, there are only limited data regarding associations between different types of headache and psychopathological symptoms in adolescents.

Objectives.— Aim of the present study in adolescents was to assess the impact of headache on psychopathological symptoms and whether these differ between types of headache.

Methods.— Data were derived from a population‐based sample (n = 1047, ages 13‐17 years). Type of headache (ie, migraine, tension‐type headache, miscellaneous headache) was ascertained for subjects reporting headache episodes at least once per month. Psychopathological symptoms were assessed with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. The following dimensions were taken into account: emotional symptoms, conduct problems, hyperactivity/inattention, peer problems (these 4 add to the total difficulties score), and prosocial behavior. Associations were estimated with logistic regression models with adjustment for age group, sex, and family situation.

Results.— Headache at least once per month was reported by 47.8% of the adolescents. Subjects with any headache were found to be at higher risk for emotional symptoms (odds ratio 1.5; 95% confidence interval 1.0‐2.2) and hyperactivity/inattention (1.4; 1.0‐1.9), resulting in a higher total difficulties score (1.6; 1.1‐2.4). While the risk for psychopathological symptoms was not significantly increased in subjects with tension‐type headache compared with subjects without headache, significant associations with emotional symptoms were found in subjects with migraine (2.9; 1.3‐6.2; total difficulties score: 3.1; 1.4‐6.8). Miscellaneous headache was associated with a broad spectrum of psychopathological symptoms: emotional symptoms (1.8; 1.0‐3.3), conduct problems (1.6; 1.0‐2.6), hyperactivity/inattention (1.9; 1.2‐3.1), total difficulties score (2.7; 1.6‐5.6).

Conclusion.— Previously reported associations between headache and psychopathological symptoms in adolescents could be confirmed, but might vary with type of headache. As psychopathological symptoms may be a precursor for manifest psychiatric disorders, adolescents particularly with migraine and miscellaneous headache appear to be a vulnerable population.
Epicrania Fugax: Ten New Cases and Therapeutic Results
Authors: Guerrero Angel L. , Cuadrado María L. , Porta‐Etessam Jesús , García‐Ramos Rocío , Gómez‐Vicente Lidia , Herrero Sonia , Peñas María L. , Fernández Rosa
Published: January 2010

(Headache 2010;50:451‐458)

Objective.— We aimed to report 10 new cases of epicrania fugax (EF), showing their clinical features and therapeutic responses.

Background.— Epicrania fugax has been recently described as a paroxysmal head pain starting in a focal area located at a posterior cranial region and rapidly spreading forward to the ipsilateral eye or nose along a linear or zigzag trajectory. In some patients the pain is followed by ocular or nasal autonomic features. In the prior series, 1 patient got pain relief with anesthetic blockades, while another patient improved with carbamazepine.

Methods.— Since the first description of EF, we have assessed 10 patients with the same clinical picture (8 women and 2 men) at the Neurology outpatient offices of our 2 centers.

Results.— The mean age at onset was 48.5 years (SD: 19.8, range: 23‐83). All the patients complained of strictly unilateral pain paroxysms starting at parietal (n = 5), occipital (n = 4), or parieto‐occipital locations (n = 1), and immediately spreading forward through a linear pathway toward the ipsilateral forehead (n = 3) or the ipsilateral eye (n = 7), the complete sequence lasting 1‐10 seconds. No trigger was identified in any of our patients, while 5 of them suffered mild pain in the stemming area between the paroxysms. Three patients had ipsilateral lacrimation, and 2 had conjunctival injection at the end of the attacks. The frequency ranged from 1 attack per week to multiple attacks per day. Neuroimaging and laboratory tests were consistently normal. Interictal pain was responsive to acetaminophen. In 3 cases a preventive was considered in order to avoid the paroxysms. Gabapentin led to significant improvement in 2 cases. The third patient did not obtain any benefit from gabapentin or amitriptyline, but improved slightly with lamotrigine.

Conclusions.— This description reinforces the proposal of EF as a new headache variant or a new headache syndrome. Anesthetic blockades, carbamazepine, gabapentin, and lamotrigine have been apparently effective in individual patients. Further observations and therapeutic trials are needed.
The Prevalence of Neck Pain in Migraine
Authors: Calhoun Anne H. , Ford Sutapa , Millen Cori , Finkel Alan G. , Truong Young , Nie Yonghong
Published: January 2010

(Headache 2010;50:1273‐1277)

Objective.— To determine the prevalence of neck pain at the time of migraine treatment relative to the prevalence of nausea, a defining associated symptom of migraine.

Methods.— This is a prospective, observational cross‐sectional study of 113 migraineurs, ranging in attack frequency from episodic to chronic migraine. Subjects were examined by headache medicine specialists to confirm the diagnosis of migraine and exclude both cervicogenic headache and fibromyalgia. Details of all migraines were recorded over the course of at least 1 month and until 6 qualifying migraines had been treated. For each attack, subjects recorded the presence or absence of nausea as well as the intensity of headache and neck pain (graded as none, mild, moderate, or severe).

Results.— Subjects recorded 2411 headache days, 786 of which were migraines. The majority of migraines were treated in the moderate pain stage. Regardless of the intensity of headache pain at time of treatment, neck pain was a more frequent accompaniment of migraine than was nausea (P < .0001). Prevalence of neck pain correlated with chronicity of headache as attacks moved from episodic to chronic daily headache.

Conclusions.— In this representative cross‐section of migraineurs, neck pain was more commonly associated with migraine than was nausea, a defining characteristic of the disorder. Awareness of neck pain as a common associated feature of migraine may improve diagnostic accuracy and have a beneficial impact on time to treatment.
The Henry George Theorem and the Entrepreneurial Process: Turning Henry George on his Head
Authors: Moss Laurence S.
Published: January 2010

Abstract

This chapter offers an interpretation of the Henry George Theorem (HGT) that brings it squarely into the study and analysis of entrepreneurship somewhat loosening its ties to the subfield of urban economics. I draw on the pioneering work of Spencer Heath whose insights about the viability of proprietary communities were developed further by his grandson, Spencer Heath MacCallum who, in 1970, recognized that private real estate developers sometimes make their capital gains (mostly) by creating useful public spaces that others enjoy. I also draw inspiration from Fred Foldvary's effort in 1994 to synthesize the pubic goods problem in economics with the Henry George Theorem in urban economics. While the real estate owner—developer does emerge on my pages in a somewhat more favourable light than as originally portrayed by Henry George in his Progress and Poverty in 1879, I offer a realistic appraisal of the duplicitous behaviours required of such entrepreneurs. in the context of the modern regulatory state. Real estate development remains a ‘hot button’ item in local politics, and real estate developers must become genuine ‘political entrepreneurs’ if they are to complete their projects in a timely way and capture business profits. It is a complicated story that the HGT helps make intelligible in terms of human action.
Larry Moss and the Struggle Against Racism by the Whately Professors of Political Economy
Authors: Peart Sandra J. , Levy David M.
Published: January 2010

Abstract

In this note, we highlight an important consideration of Larry Moss's life's work, the continual struggle within economics against racism. Larry initiated and supported the symposium on eugenics published by the American Journal of Economics and Sociology in July 2005. He edited the volume Social Inequality, Analytical Egalitarianism and the March Toward Eugenic Explanations in the Social Sciences in August 2008. These constitute obvious signs of Larry's concern.

He conjectured that the Trinity College Dublin political economists who held the Whately professorship should be thought of as a school. Such a school was in fact identified in 1850 by an outsider who pointed to their shared opposition to racial explanations within an institutional setting. That shared opposition allowed them to speak against the narrow interests of the rulers of the country. Of course, other political economists of the time, Mill in particular, were also emphatic in their anti‐racism. Thus, not only do we need to take up Larry's challenge to describe the Trinity College school but we must also seek its connections with the Scottish‐English group of anti‐racists.
Alfred Marshall and the Concept of Class
Authors: Aspers Patrik
Published: January 2010

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to analyze Alfred Marshall's concept of class. Marshall's concept of class is not well‐studied. His idea of class is different from what Weber and Marx have proposed. In contrast to many other economists, he has a discussion of class that is developed. It is shown that Marshall sees classes as made up of people whose work offers similar chances of developing their higher faculties. An integrated idea is that different class positions are associated with different discount rates of future outcomes. Marshall's class theory combines physical and mental components.
Hermeneutics and the Heidegger = Schumpeter Theses
Authors: Shionoya Yuichi
Published: January 2010

Abstract

This paper is a part of an attempt to develop an economic philosophy of ontology based on the Continental tradition of hermeneutics. Ontology explores the meanings of entities as the objects of knowledge to posit the orientation of knowledge. Heidegger developed hermeneutical ontology, focusing on the self‐understanding of Dasein (human beings), which consists of the “projection” of its possibilities into the future and the “thrownness” of it into the restrictions by the past history. Dealing explicitly with the pre‐structure of knowledge, hermeneutics opens the perspective of knowledge much broader than permitted by the analytical tradition of philosophy. It is the contention of this paper that Schumpeter from the Austrian subjectivist circle could cope with this approach in social science by the use of the concepts of “innovation and tradition” or “creation and routine.” The paper discusses the relationship between Heidegger and Schumpeter on various philosophical issues and derives what might be called the Heidegger = Schumpeter theses.
Rest Premature Ventricular Contractions on Routine ECG and Prognosis in Heart Failure Patients
Authors: Le Vy‐Van , Mitiku Teferi , Hadley David , Myers Jonathan , Froelicher Victor F.
Published: January 2010

Background: Premature ventricular contractions (PVC) at rest are frequently seen in heart failure (HF) patients but conflicting data exist regarding their importance for cardiovascular (CV) mortality. This study aims to evaluate the prognostic value of rest PVCs on an electrocardiogram (ECG) in patients with a history of clinical HF.

Methods and Results: We considered 352 patients (64 ± 11 years; 7 females) with a history of clinical HF undergoing treadmill testing for clinical reasons at the Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System (VAPAHCS) (1987–2007). Patients with rest PVCs were defined as having ≥1 PVC on the ECG prior to testing (n = 29; 8%). During a median follow‐up period of 6.2 years, there were 178 deaths of which 76 (42.6%) were due to CV causes. At baseline, compared to patients without rest PVCs, those with rest PVCs had a lower ejection fraction (EF) (30% vs 45%) and the prevalence of EF ≤ 35% was higher (75% vs 41%). They were more likely to have smoked (76% vs 55%).The all‐cause and CV mortality rates were significantly higher in the rest PVCs group (72% vs 49%, P = 0.01 and 45% vs 20%, P = 0.002; respectively). After adjusting for age, beta‐blocker use, rest ECG findings, resting heart rate (HR), EF, maximal systolic blood pressure, peak HR, and exercise capacity, rest PVC was associated with a 5.5‐fold increased risk of CV mortality (P = 0.004). Considering the presence of PVCs during exercise and/or recovery did not affect our results.

Conclusion: The presence of PVC on an ECG is a powerful predictor of CV mortality even after adjusting for confounding factors.

Ann Noninvasive Electrocardiol 2010;15(1):56–62
Enhanced MCP‐1 release by keloid CD14+ cells augments fibroblast proliferation: role of MCP‐1 and Akt pathway in keloids
Authors: Liao Wei‐Ting , Yu Hsin‐Su , Arbiser Jack L. , Hong Chein‐Hui , Govindarajan Baskaran , Chai Chih‐Yin , Shan Wan‐Ju , Lin Yu‐Fen , Chen Gwo‐Shing , Lee Chih‐Hung
Published: January 2010

Please cite this paper as: Enhanced MCP‐1 release by keloid CD14+ cells augments fibroblast proliferation: role of MCP‐1 and Akt pathway in keloids. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: e142–e150.

Abstract:  Keloids are fibrous overgrowth induced by cutaneous injury. The pathogenesis of keloids is poorly understood, and no convincing animal model exists. Current hypotheses of the pathogenesis classify keloids as an entity of aberrant fibrosis. Hyperactivation of the MCP‐1/CCR2 axis reportedly causes fibrosis in liver cirrhosis, atherosclerosis and lung fibrosis. Circulating CD14+ monocytes are precursors of circulating fibrocytes and contribute to fibrogenesis by a MCP‐1/CCR2‐dependent loop. As there is an increase in monocyte lineages in keloids, the aim of this study is to determine whether peripheral CD14+ monocytes in keloid patients trigger fibroblast proliferation through MCP‐1. Expressions of MCP‐1 and its receptor CCR2 in keloid lesions were measured by immunohistochemistry and real‐time PCR. The results revealed an increase in MCP‐1 and CCR2 in the keloid tissues. Co‐culture of keloid CD14+ cells and normal fibroblasts enhanced fibroblast proliferation and a parallel increase in extracellular MCP‐1. We further found that MCP‐1 modest enhanced fibroblast proliferation via Akt activation. Blockade of either MCP‐1 or Akt signaling suppressed the mediation of fibroblast proliferation by CD14+ cells from patients. These results demonstrated that enhanced MCP‐1 release by keloid CD14+ cells augments fibroblast proliferation via Akt pathway in keloids. We concluded that enhanced MCP‐1 release by keloid CD14+ cells augments fibroblast proliferation, which might initiate keloid development.
Differential expression of antimicrobial peptides in margins of chronic wounds
Authors: Dressel Stefanie , Harder Jürgen , Cordes Jesko , Wittersheim Maike , Meyer‐Hoffert Ulf , Sunderkötter Cord , Gläser Regine
Published: January 2010

Please cite this paper as: Differential expression of antimicrobial peptides in margins of chronic wounds. Experimental Dermatology 2010; 19: 628–632.

Abstract:  Skin wounds usually heal without major infections, although the loss of the mechanical epithelial barrier exposes the tissue to various bacteria. One reason may be the expression of antimicrobial peptides (AMP) of which some [human β‐defensins (hBD) and LL‐37] were recently shown to support additionally certain steps of wound healing. There are no studies which have compared expression patterns of different classes of AMP in chronic wounds. The aim of our study was therefore to analyse the expression profile of hBD‐2, hBD‐3, LL‐37, psoriasin and RNase 7 by immunohistochemistry from defined wound margins of chronic venous ulcers. We detected a strong induction of psoriasin and hBD‐2 in chronic wounds in comparison with healthy skin. Except for stratum corneum, no expression of RNase 7 and LL‐37 was detected in the epidermis while expression of hBD‐3 was heterogeneous. Bacterial swabs identified Staphylococcus aureus and additional bacterial populations, but no association between colonization and AMP expression was found. The differential expression of AMP is noteworthy considering the high bacterial load of chronic ulcers. Clinically, supplementation of AMP with the capability to enhance wound healing besides restricting bacterial overgrowth could present a physiological support for treatment of disturbed wound healing.
Modulating T cell functions does not alleviate chronic inflammatory skin lesions in K5.TGFβ1 transgenic mice
Authors: Michaelis Kai , Wallbrecht Katrin , Kerstan Andreas , Beyersdorf Niklas , Williams Cortny , Kerkau Thomas , Wang Xiao‐Jing , Hünig Thomas , Schön Michael P.
Published: January 2010

Please cite this paper as: Modulating T cell functions does not alleviate chronic inflammatory skin lesions in K5.TGFβ1 transgenic mice. Experimental Dermatology 2009; 19: 406–415.

Abstract:  To use mice with chronic hyperproliferative skin inflammation as psoriasis models, their thorough phenotypic and functional characterization is indispensable. Mice with keratin 5 promoter‐controlled overexpression of latent human Transforming Growth Factor (TGF)β1 within the basal epidermis (K5.TGFβ1 mice) show a psoriasiform phenotype, but the underlying pathogenic mechanisms are not entirely clear. To elucidate the contribution of T lymphocytes to the pathogenesis in K5.TGFβ1 mice, we used three complementary approaches: first, peripheral T cells were eradicated via systemic treatment with CD3‐ or CD4‐depleting antibodies. However, this elimination did not alleviate the chronic inflammatory disorder. Second, bone marrow transplantation from transgenic mice into wildtype recipients and vice versa resulted in the expected reconstitution of both adaptive and innate immune system but had little effect on the cutaneous phenotype both in wildtype and transgenic chimeras. Third, based on the hypothesis that the disease course could be modulated by regulatory T cells (Tregs), we expanded Tregs in vivo using a superagonistic anti‐CD28 antibody. While this treatment achieved a threefold increase in Foxp3‐expressing Tregs, there was little, if any, effect on the chronic skin inflammation. We conclude from our findings that T cells play little, if any, role in the skin lesions of K5.TGFβ1 mice.
Physical activity, bodyweight, health and fear of negative evaluation in primary school children
Authors: Hartmann T. , Zahner L. , Pühse U. , Schneider S. , Puder J. J. , Kriemler S.
Published: January 2010

Fear of negative evaluation (FNE) is regarded as being the core feature of social anxiety. The present study examined how FNE is associated with physical activity (PA), body mass index (BMI) and perceived physical health (PPH) in children. Data were collected in a sample of 502 primary school children in first and fifth grades taking part in a randomized‐controlled trial (“Kinder‐Sportstudie KISS”) aimed at increasing PA and health. PA was assessed by accelerometry over 7 days, PPH by the Child Health Questionnaire and FNE by the Social Anxiety Scale for Children – Revised. BMI z‐scores were calculated based on Swiss norms. Cross‐sectional analyses indicated that children high in FNE exercised less, reported lower levels of PPH and had higher BMI z‐scores (P<0.01). Using mixed linear models, the school‐based PA intervention did not manage to reduce FNE scores. Overweight children demonstrated a greater increase in FNE (P<0.05) indicating that enhanced weight may be a risk factor for FNE. In conclusion, the associations among high FNE, low PA and increased BMI should be considered when promoting an active lifestyle in children.
Tibial translation and muscle activation during rehabilitation exercises 5 weeks after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Tagesson S. , Öberg B. , Kvist J.
Published: January 2010

The aim of this study was to compare different rehabilitation exercises with respect to dynamic anterior tibial translation and muscle activation 5 weeks after an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Another aim was to compare the ACL‐reconstructed knee with the ACL‐injured and the uninjured knees for differences in anterior tibial translation and muscle activation during the exercises. Sagittal tibial translation and muscle activation were measured during the Lachman test (static translation) and during seven rehabilitation exercises (dynamic translation) in 19 patients. Results obtained 5 weeks after ACL reconstruction were compared with those obtained before the ACL reconstruction (ACL‐deficient and uninjured knee). After ACL reconstruction the seated knee extension produced more anterior tibial translation than the straight leg raise and standing on one leg. The ACL reconstruction reduced the static and the dynamic tibial translation and the tibial translations measured in ACL‐reconstructed knees were similar to those measured in uninjured knees. After ACL reconstruction, the patients used a joint stiffening strategy that used more hamstring activation and reduced the dynamic tibial translation. Although all exercises tested are suitable for rehabilitation after ACL reconstruction, to protect the graft from excessive strain, the straight leg raise and squat on one leg are preferable for quadriceps training in the early phase of rehabilitation.
Validity and comprehensibility of the International Knee Documentation Committee Subjective Knee Evaluation form in Children
Authors: Iversen M. D. , Lee B. , Connell P. , Andersen J. , Anderson A. F. , Kocher M. S.
Published: January 2010

The International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) Subjective Knee Evaluation Form is a knee‐specific measure developed for adults. Its usefulness in children is not established. This study describes how children interpret IKDC items, identifies sources of response errors, and provides suggestions for modification. Cognitive interviews were conducted in 30 children with a primary knee injury, purposefully sampled based on age and gender. Most children could not recall their injury date or symptoms 4 weeks after injury. All reported problems interpreting directions; half noted item timeframes were unclear and did not realize all questions pertained to their injured knee. Seventy percent read only the first half of a question, missing subtle differences between items. Children had difficulty comprehending the following concepts: strenuous/moderate activity, pivoting, locking, giving way, significant pain/swelling, and knee catching. Examples to describe activity levels either did not apply (e.g. housework) or were ranked differently by children. Younger children had difficulty using five‐point responses. The two most difficult items were assessment of current and prior function. Children found the IKDC Subjective Knee Evaluation Form difficult to comprehend and to answer. Modifications to directions, item formatting, and definitions are needed to ensure comprehensibility and validity.
Role of the nervous system in sarcopenia and muscle atrophy with aging: strength training as a countermeasure
Authors: Aagaard P. , Suetta C. , Caserotti P. , Magnusson S. P. , Kjær M.
Published: January 2010

Aging is characterized by loss of spinal motor neurons (MNs) due to apoptosis, reduced insulin‐like growth factor I signaling, elevated amounts of circulating cytokines, and increased cell oxidative stress. The age‐related loss of spinal MNs is paralleled by a reduction in muscle fiber number and size (sarcopenia), resulting in impaired mechanical muscle performance that in turn leads to a reduced functional capacity during everyday tasks. Concurrently, maximum muscle strength, power, and rate of force development are decreased with aging, even in highly trained master athletes. The impairment in muscle mechanical function is accompanied and partly caused by an age‐related loss in neuromuscular function that comprise changes in maximal MN firing frequency, agonist muscle activation, antagonist muscle coactivation, force steadiness, and spinal inhibitory circuitry. Strength training appears to elicit effective countermeasures in elderly individuals even at a very old age (>80 years) by evoking muscle hypertrophy along with substantial changes in neuromuscular function, respectively. Notably, the training‐induced changes in muscle mass and nervous system function leads to an improved functional capacity during activities of daily living.
When Does Race Matter? Race, Sex, and Dating at an Elite University
Authors: McClintock Elizabeth Aura
Published: January 2010

This paper unites quantitative and qualitative data from the College Social Life Survey (n = 732) to describe and explain patterns of racial homophily in undergraduate sexual/romantic relationships at an elite university, a closed social setting. It expands the literature on interracial romantic unions by comparing homophily in hookups (uncommitted sexual interactions), dates, and long‐term relationships. Although this population embodies many characteristics associated with greater racial mixing (youth, education, status equality, geographical proximity, racial diversity, independence from family), racial homophily is still strongly evident. Variation in levels of homophily among relationship types and among racial groups is explained by differences in desired homophily, social network segregation, and participation in formal race‐based student organizations. Black students are particularly socially isolated.
Neighborhood Poverty and Nonmarital Fertility: Spatial and Temporal Dimensions
Authors: South Scott J. , Crowder Kyle
Published: January 2010

Data from 4,855 respondents to the Panel Study of Income Dynamics were used to examine spatial and temporal dimensions of the effect of neighborhood poverty on teenage premarital childbearing. Although high poverty in the immediate neighborhood increased the risk of becoming an unmarried parent, high poverty in surrounding neighborhoods reduced this risk. The effect of local neighborhood poverty was especially pronounced when surrounding neighborhoods were economically advantaged. Measuring exposure to neighborhood poverty over the childhood life course yielded stronger effects than measuring exposure at a single age. Neither racial differences in the level of poverty in proximate neighborhoods nor racial differences in neighborhood poverty over the childhood life course explained the racial difference in nonmarital fertility.
Longitudinal Associations Between Husbands' and Wives' Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Kouros Chrystyna D. , Cummings E. Mark
Published: January 2010

Although concordance between husbands' and wives' mental health problems is often reported, questions remain about the nature of these relations. Extending research in this area, this study examined dynamic‐longitudinal pathways among husbands' and wives' depressive symptoms and marital satisfaction as a moderator of associations. Participants were 296 heterosexual couples. Husbands and wives reported on their depressive symptoms and marital satisfaction. Results from dynamic bivariate latent difference score analyses indicated unidirectional longitudinal coupling such that higher levels of husbands' depressive symptoms predicted subsequent elevations in wives' depressive symptoms over time. This relation was stronger among couples reporting marital distress as compared to couples reporting higher marital satisfaction. The findings underscore the importance of considering one's spouses' depressive symptoms in treatment efforts.
Parent Care as Unpaid Family Labor: How Do Spouses Share?
Authors: Henz Ursula
Published: January 2010

The study adapts theories of the household division of labor to the division of parent care between spouses and expands them by taking the kin relationship with the parent and the intensity of care into account. Tobit and weighted logit models are used to analyze the division of parent care in 2,214 couples from the British General Household Surveys. The models revealed patterns of parent care that are predominantly governed by the kin relationship. Time availability was strongly associated with couples' division of parent care, whereas the resource‐bargaining approach received little support except for dual‐earner couples that provided more intensive care for the husband's parents. Children‐in‐law's characteristics were hardly related to the division of high‐intensity caregiving in dual‐earner couples.
Crystal structure of the halotolerant γ‐glutamyltranspeptidase from Bacillus subtilis in complex with glutamate reveals a unique architecture of the solvent‐exposed catalytic pocket
Authors: Wada Kei , Irie Machiko , Suzuki Hideyuki , Fukuyama Keiichi
Published: January 2010

γ‐Glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT; EC 2.3.2.2), an enzyme found in organisms from bacteria to mammals and plants, plays a central role in glutathione metabolism. Structural studies of GGTs from Escherichia coli and Helicobacter pylori have revealed detailed molecular mechanisms of catalysis and maturation. In these two GGTs, highly conserved residues form the catalytic pockets, conferring the ability of the loop segment to shield the bound γ‐glutamyl moiety from the solvent. Here, we have examined the Bacillus subtilis GGT, which apparently lacks the amino acids corresponding to the lid‐loop that are present in mammalian and plant GGTs as well as in most bacterial GGTs. Another remarkable feature of B. subtilis GGT is its salt tolerance; it retains 86% of its activity even in 3 m NaCl. To better understand these characteristics of B. subtilis GGT, we determined its crystal structure in complex with glutamate, a product of the enzymatic reaction, at 1.95 Å resolution. This structure revealed that, unlike the E. coli and H. pylori GGTs, the catalytic pocket of B. subtilis GGT has no segment that covers the bound glutamate; consequently, the glutamate is exposed to solvent. Furthermore, calculation of the electrostatic potential showed that strong acidic patches were distributed on the surface of the B. subtilis GGT, even under high‐salt conditions, and this may allow the protein to remain in the hydrated state and avoid self‐aggregation. The structural findings presented here have implications for the molecular mechanism of GGT.

Structured digital abstract

 MINT‐7383558: GGT (uniprotkb:P54422) and GGT (uniprotkb:P54422) bind (MI:0407) by X‐ray crystallography (MI:0114)
Optimal Design of Pharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: Aarons Leon , Ogungbenro Kayode
Published: January 2010

Abstract: Experimental design is fundamental to successful scientific investigation. Poorly designed experiments lead to the loss of information, which is costly and potentially unethical. Experiments can be designed in an optimal fashion to maximize the amount of information they provide. Optimal design theory uses prior information about the model and parameter estimates to optimize a function of the Fisher information matrix to obtain the best combination of the design factors. In the case of population pharmacokinetic experiments, this involves the selection and a careful balance of a number of design factors, including the number and location of measurement times and the number of subjects to include in the study. It is expected that as the awareness about the benefits of this approach increases, more people will embrace it and ultimately will lead to more efficient population pharmacokinetic experiments and can also help to reduce both cost and time during drug development. This MiniReview provides an introduction to optimal design using examples taken from different pharmacokinetic experiments.
The Effect of Renal Transplantation for End-Stage Renal Disease on Female Sexual Function and Depression
Authors: Kettaş Elife , Çayan Filiz , Efesoy Ozan , Akbay Erdem , Çayan Selahittin
Published: January 2010

Introduction

Studies have suggested that women with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) had higher risk of sexual dysfunction than healthy women.

Aims

To prospectively determine the effect of renal transplantation for ESRD on female sexual function and depression.

Methods

During a 5-year period, the study included 21 sexually active women who underwent renal transplantation for ESRD at a single university hospital. After obtaining demographic characteristics, female sexual function was evaluated with a detailed 19-item questionnaire (The Female Sexual Function Index, FSFI), and depression was assessed using Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) scale.

Main Outcome Measures

In all women, FSFI and BDI scores were compared before and after the renal transplantation surgery.

Results

The mean age of the women was 35.04 ± 9.6 years, and mean follow-up duration after renal transplantation was 27.5 ± 20.4 months. Mean total sexual function score increased from 17.57 ± 7.07 to 25.3 ± 3.28, revealing significant difference (P = 0.001). Compared with preoperative period, sexual function domains including sexual desire (P = 0.001), arousal (P = 0.001), lubrication (P = 0.003), orgasm (P = 0.001), satisfaction (P = 0.001), and pain (P = 0.02) significantly improved after renal transplantation. Mean BDI score significantly decreased from 17.91 ± 8.56 to 3 ± 4.17 after renal transplantation (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Successful renal transplantation may improve female sexual functions and depression. Therefore, life quality increases as sexual functions and depression improve after the renal transplantation surgery.
Impact of Fibroblast Growth Factor 23 on Lipids and Atherosclerosis in Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Ashikaga Eijin , Honda Hirokazu , Suzuki Hiroki , Hosaka Nozomu , Hirai Yuki , Sanada Daisuke , Nakamura Mari , Nagai Hisako , Matsumoto Kei , Kato Noriyuki , Mukai Masanori , Watanabe Makoto , Takahashi Keiko , Shishido Kanji , Akizawa Tadao
Published: January 2010

Levels of fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 23, a phosphatonin, are frequently elevated in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) who are on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). However, the role of FGF23 remains unclear because renal FGF receptor function might be impaired. The present cross‐sectional study examines a cohort of patients (n = 196) on MHD who were not undergoing therapy with lipid‐lowering drugs including sevelamer. Non‐fasting venous blood samples were withdrawn before the hemodialysis (HD) session on the third day after the previous HD session to measure serum levels of albumin, calcium (Ca), phosphate (P), alkaline phosphatase, intact parathyroid hormone (PTH), total cholesterol (C), high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐C, low‐density lipoprotein(LDL)‐C, oxidative LDL‐C, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (HsCRP), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and FGF23. Nutritional status was assessed using the geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI). Carotid intima‐medial thickness (CIMT) was assessed using a B‐mode ultrasound scanner. FGF23 was positively correlated with P, Caalb×P product, and intact PTH, and inversely correlated with C and non‐HDL‐C. In the higher FGF23 tertile, levels of both non‐HDL‐C and C were significantly decreased and CIMT was less elevated compared to the lower FGF23 tertile. Multivariate analysis showed that the higher FGF23 tertile was independently associated with decreases in C (adjusted r2 = 0.14) and non‐HDL‐C (adjusted r2 = 0.20) levels and with a less‐pronounced increase in CIMT (adjusted r2 = 0.14). High FGF23 appears to be an independent biomarker of a decrease in C and non‐HDL‐C that is negatively associated with atherosclerosis in patients on MHD.
An Assessment of the Influence of the Inter‐Tropical Discontinuity on Inter‐Annual Rainfall Characteristics in Nigeria
Authors: ODEKUNLE THEOPHILUS O.
Published: January 2010

This study assessed the influence of the Inter‐Tropical Discontinuity (ITD) on inter‐annual rainfall characteristics in Nigeria between 1970 and 2000. This involved determining the strength and direction of the relationships between the total annual rainfalls in the extreme southern and northern parts of the country and the total annual rainfalls during the period of the Little Dry Season in southwestern Nigeria, and the surface locations of the ITD over Nigeria and some other factors that may impact ITD characteristics (such as the pressure differences between Azores, Libyan and St. Helena anticyclones and the sea surface temperature of the Gulf of Guinea). Results indicate that although the surface location of the ITD significantly accounts for rainfall inter‐annual variability in Nigeria, it does so in the northern part of the country only. Pressure differences between the various anticyclones were observed to be another significant factor influencing inter‐annual rainfall variability in the north. However, the influence of the sea surface temperature of the Gulf of Guinea on the rainfall characteristics in the northern region is ill‐defined. It was also noted that the only factor influencing inter‐annual variability in the Little Dry Season rainfall in the southwest and the total annual rainfalls in the south is the sea surface temperature of the Gulf of Guinea. The results obtained indicate that the total annual rainfalls in the north have significant positive relationships with the surface location of the ITD but significant negative relationships with the pressure differences between the Azores, Libyan and St. Helena anticyclones. The Little Dry Season rainfalls and total annual rainfalls in the south have significant positive relationships with the sea surface temperature of the Gulf of Guinea.
Attitudes to Drought in Outback Communities in South Australia
Authors: PEARCE MERYL , WILLIS EILEEN , WADHAM BEN , BINKS BILL
Published: January 2010

This paper explores the perceptions of drought by residents in outback South Australia and their associated responses to the drought. Behavioural Geography methodology is used with data drawn from interviews with pastoralists, business owners, and residents of small outback towns and Aboriginal communities. Although they were not resident in the region, the perceptions of tourists were also garnered. The results show that perceptions varied between the groups of people interviewed. Outback residents contrasted their own frugal water use with reports of wasteful behaviour by foreign tourists. Local inhabitants were largely ‘accepting’ of the drought, having survived worse droughts in the past and over many years. They were therefore of the sentiment that they would cope with future droughts. Despite the sentiments of acceptance, the dropping groundwater levels and continued lack of rainfall were leading to growing concerns for the future. The concerns point to a boundary to community resilience to drought in outback South Australia.
Underground Vetch (Vicia sativa ssp. amphicarpa): A Potential Pasture and Forage Legume for Dry Areas in West Asia
Authors: Abd El Moneim A. M. , Elias S. F.
Published: January 2010

Subterranean vetch [Vicia sativa ssp. amphicarpa (Dorth.) Aschers & Graebn.] is native to disturbed grasslands of the Mediterranean basin where heavy grazing, seasonal drought and erosion act as strong selection forces. It produces two pod types, above‐ground and 5 cm below the soil surface. Unlike subterranean clover (Trifolium subterranean L.), which buries its seeds after flowering above‐ground, subterranean vetch flowers and forms pods beneath the soil surface on underground stems. The aerial pods are produced after vegetative development ceases, while the underground pods are produced in ontogeny. The ability of this unusual vetch to survive in marginal areas with low rainfall (about 250 mm year−1) and to produce nutritious herbage and pods is an important characteristic which helps address rehabilitation of degraded rangelands and increase feed production for small ruminants. Research at the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) during the 1988–93 growing seasons has assessed the herbage and seed productivity of underground vetch, its ability to grow in rotation with barley in marginal low‐rainfall areas, and its capacity to regenerate after heavy grazing. Drier conditions in 1989 favoured earlier underground flowering; the number of underground pods was higher than that of aerial pods. Grain yield of barley (var. Atlas) was around 2.0 t ha−1 after underground vetch and only 1.2 t ha−1 after barley. Grazing underground vetch had no effect on the productivity of the succeeding barley crop. The aerial and underground pods serve two distinct functions; aerial pods increase dissemination within suitable habitats, while underground pods increase the probability of plant survival under adverse conditions such as drought and heavy grazing. Underground vetch has two potential uses, namely the rehabilitation of marginal areas and production in rotation with barley.