bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of UV Radiation on the Neonatal Skin Immune System— Implications for Melanoma†
Authors: Muller H. Konrad , Malley Roslyn C. , McGee Heather M. , Scott Deborah K. , Wozniak Teresa , Woods Gregory M.
Published: July 2010

The neonatal immune environment and the events that occur during this time have profound effects for the adult period. While protective immune responses can develop, the neonatal immune system, particularly the skin immune system (SIS), tends to promote tolerance. With this information we undertook a number of studies to identify unique aspects of skin during the neonatal period. Proteomics revealed proteins uniquely expressed in neonatal, but not adult, skin (e.g. Stefin A, peroxiredoxins) and these may have implications in the development of SIS. Vitamin D was found to have a modulating role on SIS and this was apparent from the early neonatal period. Exposure of the neonatal skin to UV radiation altered the microenvironment resulting in the generation of regulatory T cells, which persisted in adult life. As the development of UV radiation‐induced melanoma can occur following a single high dose (equivalent to burning in adults) to transgenic mice (hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor or TPras) during the neonatal period, the early modulating events which lead to suppression may be relevant for the development of UV radiation‐induced human melanoma. Any attempt to produce effective melanoma immunotherapy has to accommodate and overcome these barriers. Margaret Kripke’s pioneering work on UV‐induced immunosuppression still remains central to the understanding of the development of melanoma and how it frequently escapes the immune system.
International Association of Children's Judges
Authors: Sicher Dudley F.
Published: July 2010

Current General Tendencies and Controversies in the United States of America Concerning Administration and Amendment of the Laws Relating to Children, Youths and the Family.
Cloning-Independent Expression and Analysis of ω-Transaminases by Use of a Cell-Free Protein Synthesis System
Authors: Kwon Yong-Chan , Lee Kyung-Ho , Kim Ho-Cheol , Han Kyuboem , Seo Joo-Hyun , Kim Byung-Gee , Kim Dong-Myung
Published: July 2010

Herewith we report the expression and screening of microbial enzymes without involving cloning procedures. Computationally predicted putative ω-transaminase (ω-TA) genes were PCR amplified from the bacterial colonies and expressed in a cell-free protein synthesis system for subsequent analysis of their enzymatic activity and substrate specificity. Through the cell-free expression analysis of the putative ω-TA genes, a number of enzyme-substrate pairs were identified in a matter of hours. We expect that the proposed strategy will provide a universal platform for bridging the information gap between nucleotide sequence and protein function to accelerate the discovery of novel enzymes.
Identification of a Novel Class of Membrane-Bound [NiFe]-Hydrogenases in
Thermococcus onnurineus
NA1 by
In Silico
Analysis
Authors: Lim Jae Kyu , Kang Sung Gyun , Lebedinsky Alexander V. , Lee Jung-Hyun , Lee Hyun Sook
Published: July 2010

In silico
analysis of group 4 [NiFe]-hydrogenases from a hyperthermophilic archaeon,
Thermococcus onnurineus
NA1, revealed a novel tripartite gene cluster consisting of dehydrogenase-hydrogenase-cation/proton antiporter subunits, which may be classified as the new subgroup 4b of [NiFe]-hydrogenases-based on sequence motifs.
2-Haloacrylate Hydratase, a New Class of Flavoenzyme That Catalyzes the Addition of Water to the Substrate for Dehalogenation
Authors: Mowafy Amr M. , Kurihara Tatsuo , Kurata Atsushi , Uemura Tadashi , Esaki Nobuyoshi
Published: July 2010

Enzymes catalyzing the conversion of organohalogen compounds are useful in the chemical industry and environmental technology. Here we report the occurrence of a new reduced flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) (FADH
2
)-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the removal of a halogen atom from an unsaturated aliphatic organohalogen compound by the addition of a water molecule to the substrate. A soil bacterium,
Pseudomonas
sp. strain YL, inducibly produced a protein named Caa67
YL
when the cells were grown on 2-chloroacrylate (2-CAA). The
caa67
YL
gene encoded a protein of 547 amino acid residues (
M
r
of 59,301), which shared weak but significant sequence similarity with various flavoenzymes and contained a nucleotide-binding motif. We found that 2-CAA is converted into pyruvate when the reaction was carried out with purified Caa67
YL
in the presence of FAD and a reducing agent [NAD(P)H or sodium dithionite] under anaerobic conditions. The reducing agent was not stoichiometrically consumed during this reaction, suggesting that FADH
2
is conserved by regeneration in the catalytic cycle. When the reaction was carried out in the presence of H
2
18
O, [
18
O]pyruvate was produced. These results indicate that Caa67
YL
catalyzes the hydration of 2-CAA to form 2-chloro-2-hydroxypropionate, which is chemically unstable and probably spontaneously dechlorinated to form pyruvate. 2-Bromoacrylate, but not other 2-CAA analogs such as acrylate and methacrylate, served as the substrate of Caa67
YL
. Thus, we named this new enzyme 2-haloacrylate hydratase. The enzyme is very unusual in that it requires the reduced form of FAD for hydration, which involves no net change in the redox state of the coenzyme or substrate.
High-Resolution
In Situ
Genotyping of
Legionella pneumophila
Populations in Drinking Water by Multiple-Locus Variable-Number Tandem-Repeat Analysis Using Environmental DNA
Authors: Kahlisch Leila , Henne Karsten , Draheim Josefin , Brettar Ingrid , Höfle Manfred G.
Published: July 2010

Central to the understanding of infections by the waterborne pathogen
Legionella pneumophila
is its detection at the clonal level. Currently, multiple-locus variable-number tandem-repeat (VNTR) analysis (MLVA) of
L. pneumophila
isolates can be used as a tool for high-resolution genotyping. Since
L. pneumophila
is difficult to isolate, the isolation of outbreak strains often fails due to a viable but nonculturable (VBNC) state of the respective environmental population. Therefore, we developed a cultivation-independent approach to detect single clones in drinking water. This approach is based on the extraction of DNA from drinking water followed by PCR using a set of eight VNTR primer pairs necessary for MLVA genotyping of
L. pneumophila
. The PCR amplicons were analyzed by single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and capillary electrophoresis to obtain the respective MLVA profiles. Parallel to the high-resolution analysis, we used the same environmental DNA to quantify the number of
L. pneumophila
cells in drinking water using real-time PCR with 16S rRNA gene-targeted primers. We used a set of drinking water samples from a small-scale drinking water network to test our approach. With these samples we demonstrated that the developed approach was directly applicable to DNA obtained from drinking water. We were able to detect more
L. pneumophila
MLVA genotypes in drinking water than we could detect by isolation. Our approach could be a valuable tool to identify outbreak strains even after the outbreak has occurred and has the potential to be applied directly to clinical material.
Expression and Physiological Role of Three
Myxococcus xanthus
Copper-Dependent P
1B
-Type ATPases during Bacterial Growth and Development
Authors: Moraleda-Muñoz Aurelio , Pérez Juana , Extremera Antonio Luis , Muñoz-Dorado José
Published: July 2010

Myxococcus xanthus
is a soil-dwelling bacterium that exhibits a complex life cycle comprising social behavior, morphogenesis, and differentiation. In order to successfully complete this life cycle, cells have to cope with changes in their environment, among which the presence of copper is remarkable. Copper is an essential transition metal for life, but an excess of copper provokes cellular damage by oxidative stress. This dual effect forces the cells to maintain a tight homeostasis.
M. xanthus
encodes a large number of genes with similarities to others reported previously to be involved in copper homeostasis, most of which are redundant. We have identified three genes that encode copper-translocating P
1B
-ATPases (designated
copA
,
copB
, and
copC
) that exhibit the sequence motifs and modular organizations of those that extrude Cu
+
. The expression of the ATPase
copC
has not been detected, but
copA
and
copB
are differentially regulated by the addition of external copper. However, while
copB
expression peaks at 2 h,
copA
is expressed at higher levels, and the maximum is reached much later. The fact that these expression profiles are nearly identical to those exhibited by the multicopper oxidases
cuoA
and
cuoB
suggests that the pairs CuoB-CopB and CuoA-CopA sequentially function to detoxify the cell. The deletion of any ATPase alters the expression profiles of other genes involved in copper homeostasis, such as the remaining ATPases or the Cus systems, yielding cells that are more resistant to the metal.
Characterization of a Family GH5 Xylanase with Activity on Neutral Oligosaccharides and Evaluation as a Pulp Bleaching Aid
Authors: Gallardo Óscar , Fernández-Fernández María , Valls Cristina , Valenzuela Susana Valeria , Roncero M. Blanca , Vidal Teresa , Díaz Pilar , Pastor F. I. Javier
Published: July 2010

A new bacterial xylanase belonging to family 5 of glycosyl hydrolases was identified and characterized. The xylanase, Xyn5B from
Bacillus
sp. strain BP-7, was active on neutral, nonsubstituted xylooligosaccharides, showing a clear difference from other GH5 xylanases characterized to date that show a requirement for methyl-glucuronic acid side chains for catalysis. The enzyme was evaluated on
Eucalyptus
kraft pulp, showing its effectiveness as a bleaching aid.
The Aspergillus fumigatus
cspA
Gene Encoding a Repeat-Rich Cell Wall Protein Is Important for Normal Conidial Cell Wall Architecture and Interaction with Host Cells
Authors: Levdansky Emma , Kashi Oren , Sharon Haim , Shadkchan Yana , Osherov Nir
Published: July 2010

cspA
(for cell surface protein A) encodes a repeat-rich glycophosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored cell wall protein (CWP) in the pathogenic fungus
Aspergillus fumigatus
. The number of repeats in
cspA
varies among isolates, and this trait is used for typing closely related strains of
A. fumigatus
. We have previously shown that deletion of
cspA
is associated with rapid conidial germination and reduced adhesion of dormant conidia. Here we show that
cspA
can be extracted with hydrofluoric acid (HF) from the cell wall, suggesting that it is a GPI-anchored CWP. The
cspA
-encoded CWP is unmasked during conidial germination and is surface expressed during hyphal growth. Deletion of
cspA
results in weakening of the conidial cell wall, whereas its overexpression increases conidial resistance to cell wall-degrading enzymes and inhibits conidial germination. Double mutant analysis indicates that
cspA
functionally interacts with the cell wall protein-encoding genes
ECM33
and
GEL2
. Deletion of
cspA
together with
ECM33
or
GEL2
results in strongly reduced conidial adhesion, increased disorganization of the conidial cell wall, and exposure of the underlying layers of chitin and β-glucan. This is correlated with increasing susceptibility of the Δ
cspA
, Δ
ECM33
, and Δ
cspA
Δ
ECM33
mutants to conidial phagocytosis and killing by human macrophages and hyphal damage induced by neutrophils. However, these strains did not exhibit altered virulence in mice with infected lungs. Collectively, these results suggest a role for
cspA
in maintaining the strength and integrity of the cell wall.
The KtrA and KtrE Subunits Are Required for Na
+
-Dependent K
+
Uptake by KtrB across the Plasma Membrane in
Synechocystis
sp. Strain PCC 6803
Authors: Zulkifli Lalu , Akai Masaro , Yoshikawa Asuka , Shimojima Mie , Ohta Hiroyuki , Guy H. Robert , Uozumi Nobuyuki
Published: July 2010

The Na
+
-dependent K
+
uptake KtrABE system is essential for the adaptation of
Synechocystis
to salinity stress and high osmolality. While KtrB forms the K
+
-translocating pore, the role of the subunits KtrA and KtrE for Ktr function remains elusive. Here, we characterized the role of KtrA and KtrE in Ktr-mediated K
+
uptake and in modulating Na
+
dependency. Expression of KtrB alone in a K
+
uptake-deficient
Escherichia coli
strain conferred low K
+
uptake activity that was not stimulated by Na
+
. Coexpression of both KtrA and KtrE with KtrB increased the K
+
transport activity in a Na
+
-dependent manner. KtrA and KtrE were found to be localized to the plasma membrane in
Synechocystis
. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to analyze the role of single charged residues in KtrB for Ktr function. Replacing negatively charged residues facing the extracellular space with residues of the opposite charge increased the apparent

K
m

for K
+
in all cases. However, none of the mutations eliminated the Na
+
dependency of Ktr-mediated K
+
transport. Mutations of residues on the cytoplasmic side had larger effects on K
+
uptake activity than those of residues on the extracellular side. Further analysis revealed that replacement of R262, which is well conserved among Ktr/Trk/HKT transporters in the third extracellular loop, by Glu abolished transport activity. The atomic-scale homology model indicated that R262 might interact with E247 and D261. Based on these data, interaction of KtrA and KtrE with KtrB increased the K
+
uptake rate and conferred Na
+
dependency.
The endovascular treatment of a spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistula with coils: a case report
Authors: Pasqualetto L , Papa R , Isalberti M , Nuzzi N P , Branca V
Published: July 2010

We report a case of direct spinal intradural ventral arteriovenous fistula of the thoraco-lumbar region. Angiography demonstrated a single feeder from the anterior spinal artery that drained directly into a markedly dilated vein without an intervening nidus. The endovascular treatment was performed by a transarterial approach and the occlusion of the fistula, after a failed treatment by a detachable balloon, was obtained by coils released in the initial fistulous site inside a venous dilatation with complete clinical cure. This case indicates that endovascular treatment is possible using coils as a valid and safe alternative to a balloon, glue or surgical approach.
The estrogen paradox in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Sakao Seiichiro , Tanabe Nobuhiro , Tatsumi Koichiro
Published: July 2010

Idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a disabling condition characterized by PA vasoconstriction and remodeling as well as in situ thrombosis and eventual right heart failure. Idiopathic PAH occurs more frequently in females than in males. The female:male ratio is 1.64 ∼ 3.88:1. Although endogenous sex hormones including estrogen have been suggested to account for the observed gender differences in PAH, a precise pathobiology for the gender differences remains uncertain. Recent studies demonstrated that estrogen exerts beneficial effects on the pulmonary vasculature. However, it seems to contradict the female predominance that is observed in idiopathic PAH. Moreover, Sweeney and Voelkel (Sweeney L and Voelkel NF. Eur J Med Res 14: 433–442, 2009) showed that early and long-term estrogen exposure might be correlated with an increased risk of the development of PAH. Here we ask the question: Is estrogen a friend or a foe? According to accumulating evidence, we postulate that the different effects of estrogens on different target cells could account for this paradox, i.e., estrogens may exert beneficial effects only on the increased muscularization of vessel walls, but not on phenotypically altered endothelial cells. The effects of estrogens on the pulmonary vasculature are potent and complex, yet not fully understood. A better mechanistic understanding may allow for future therapeutic interventions in patients with PAH.
Opposing effects of bim and bcl-2 on lung endothelial cell migration
Authors: Grutzmacher Cathy , Park SunYoung , Elmergreen Tammy L. , Tang Yixin , Scheef Elizabeth A. , Sheibani Nader , Sorenson Christine M.
Published: July 2010

Integration of cell adhesive, survival, and proliferative processes is essential for capillary morphogenesis of endothelial cells (EC) in vitro and vascular development and function in vivo. Unfortunately, the molecular and cellular mechanisms that impact these processes are poorly defined. Here we examined how lack of bim and/or bcl-2 expression impact lung EC function. The absence of bcl-2 or bim had a significant impact on EC adhesion and migration. Lack of bcl-2 expression decreased lung EC migration, whereas lack of bim expression increased migration compared with their wild-type counterparts. Decreased adhesion to fibronectin and vitronectin was observed in both bcl-2−/− and bim−/− lung EC, with bcl-2−/− EC having very little adhesion to either matrix protein. Capillary morphogenesis was greatly diminished in bcl-2−/− EC, which correlated with decreased lung alveolarization in vivo, an angiogenesis-dependent process. We also observed aberrant production of extracellular matrix proteins, eNOS expression, and nitric oxide production in bcl-2−/− lung EC, which could contribute to inability to undergo capillary morphogenesis. The changes in cell adhesion and migration noted in the absence of bim or bcl-2 were independent of their impact on apoptosis. We observed no significant affect on the steady-state rate of apoptosis of lung EC in the absence of bim or bcl-2. Thus, bcl-2 family members, bim and bcl-2, play a central role in modulation of EC proangiogenic properties, which goes beyond their role as simple mediators of mitochondrial homeostasis and apoptosis.
Extracellular acidification stimulates IL-6 production and Ca2+mobilization through proton-sensing OGR1 receptors in human airway smooth muscle cells
Authors: Ichimonji Isao , Tomura Hideaki , Mogi Chihiro , Sato Koichi , Aoki Haruka , Hisada Takeshi , Dobashi Kunio , Ishizuka Tamotsu , Mori Masatomo , Okajima Fumikazu
Published: July 2010

The asthmatic airway has been shown to be an acidic environment that may be involved in the pathophysiological features of asthma. However, the mechanism by which an acidic pH modulates the cellular activities involved in the asthmatic airway remains elusive. Here, we characterized acidic pH-induced actions in human airway smooth muscle cells (ASMCs). Extracellular acidification stimulates the mRNA expression and protein production of IL-6, a proinflammatory cytokine, in association with the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38MAPK, reflecting the activation of the enzymes. Acidification-induced cytokine production was inhibited by inhibitors of ERK and p38MAPK. Acidification also increased intracellular Ca2+concentration, which was accompanied by cell rounding, most likely reflecting contraction. In ASMCs, OGR1 is expressed at by far the highest levels among proton-sensing G protein-coupled receptors. The knockdown of OGR1 and Gq/11protein with their specific small interfering RNAs and an inhibition of Gq/11protein with YM-254890 attenuated the acidification-induced actions. We conclude that extracellular acidification stimulates IL-6 production and Ca2+mobilization through proton-sensing OGR1 receptors/Gq/11proteins in human ASMCs.
The Ascetic Jesus
Authors: Joseph Simon
Published: July 2010

New Testament scholars have long been divided on the question of Jesus' asceticism. This study will argue that the historical Jesus should be identified as a first-century Jewish ascetic. Here, asceticism is conceptualized as a sociological, cross-cultural and comparative lens through which a range of behaviors can be understood. Consequently, by comparing the early Jesus tradition with other contemporary manifestations of ascetic practice in antiquity, this study will illustrate that an ascetic model for the historical Jesus is not only compatible with(in) first-century Judaism but has the explanatory power to reconcile conflicting portraits of Jesus and advance a theoretical lens through which additional future work on the historical Jesus can be conducted.
BBC World Service Hebrew Section (1949-1968): The 'Voice of London' for Israelis or the 'Voice of Israel' from London?
Authors: Nossek Hillel
Published: July 2010

This article seeks to ask the question why, when and how the BBC World Service Hebrew Section broadcast became part of British media diplomacy towards Israel and integral to British foreign policy towards the Middle East and the Cold War. It also seeks to understand why it was closed down and how it became a professional training ground for Israel's public broadcasting system tasked with enhancing democracy as a part of BBC WS' policy. The article tries to answer these questions by analyzing background documents and transcripts of the broadcasts at several critical moments, and by interviewing a key professional who served on the Israeli staff of the BBCWS Hebrew section in its last three years. The points in time were: the establishment of the service, 1949; the Suez/Sinai Campaign of 1956; the Eichmann Trial in Jerusalem, 1961; Ten Years to the Suez/Sinai Campaign, 1966; the Six Day War, 1967; and the closure of the service in 1968.
Training Adaptive Teams
Authors: Gorman Jamie C. , Cooke Nancy J. , Amazeen Polemnia G.
Published: July 2010

Objective: We report an experiment in which three training approaches are compared with the goal of training adaptive teams. Background: Cross-training is an established method in which team members are trained with the goal of building shared knowledge. Perturbation training is a new method in which team interactions are constrained to provide new coordination experiences during task acquisition. These two approaches, and a more traditional procedural approach, are compared. Method: Assigned to three training conditions were 26 teams. Teams flew nine simulated uninhabited air vehicle missions; three were critical tests of the team’s ability to adapt to novel situations. Team performance, response time to novel events, and shared knowledge were measured. Results: Perturbation-trained teams significantly outperformed teams in the other conditions in two out of three critical test missions. Cross-training resulted in significant increases in shared teamwork knowledge and highest mean performance in one critical test. Procedural training led to the least adaptive teams. Conclusion: Perturbation training allows teams to match coordination variability during training to demands for coordination variability during posttraining performance. Although cross-training has adaptive benefits, it is suggested that process-oriented approaches, such as perturbation training, can lead to more adaptive teams. Application: Perturbation training is amenable to simulation-based training, where perturbations provide interaction experiences that teams can transfer to novel, real-world situations.
Perspectives: Teams Won’t Solve This Problem
Authors: DeChurch Leslie A. , Zaccaro Stephen J.
Published: July 2010

Objective: We link the problem of complex sociotechnical systems to a new unit-of-analysis and fruitful developing area of applied research, the multiteam system. Background: Teams are the dominant entity and theoretical lens being applied to understanding the performance of complex sociotechnical systems. We submit that such problems cannot be solved through the teams lens because complex sociotechnical systems exhibit features such as mixed-motive goal structures and complex, layered social identities that do not meet the definitional requirements of a team. Method: We present key findings from multiteam systems research and review the studies contained in the special issue on the basis of the focal constructs and unit of analysis. Results: Although progress is being made on understanding key constructs essential to understanding complex sociotechnical systems, the unit of analysis needs to be shifted upward from the team level to the system level. Conclusion: Progress on understanding the inner workings and leverage points for the success of complex sociotechnical systems requires a fundamental shift in the unit of analysis toward understanding the macrodynamics of larger systems of teams. Application: The multiteam system perspective offers a useful theoretical lens for future research on and tool development (e.g., training, information technology) for improving the functioning of complex sociotechnical systems.
The Importance of Student and Teacher Interactions for Disaffected Middle School Students: A Grounded Theory Study of Community Day Schools
Authors: Kennedy Brianna L.
Published: July 2010

Students who are expelled from school often demonstrate the need for alternative learning environments that respond to their academic disengagement as well as their behavioral challenges. Teachers in such environments contend with a variety of student needs while attempting to engage students in the learning process. This grounded theory study examines student and teacher interactions in community day school (CDS) classrooms in one large, urban school district in the southwest. Through semistructured interviews and observations, the researcher develops an emerging theory that describes the interactions between teachers and students. Interactions vary in nature depending on student and teacher characteristics, their self-definitions and beliefs, and the influence of support staff. Various interactions precede specific student outcomes, which can be both intended and unintended. This article explains the interplay between the categories listed above and gives concrete examples from classrooms about how student and teacher interactions can lead to, or impede, growth for both students and teachers.
Modeling and Optimization of Adaptive Foraging in Swarm Robotic Systems
Authors: Liu Wenguo , Winfield Alan F. T.
Published: July 2010

Understanding the effect of individual parameters on the collective performance of swarm robotic systems in order to design and optimize individual robot behaviors is a significant challenge. In this paper we present a macroscopic probabilistic model of adaptive collective foraging in a swarm of robots, where each robot in the swarm is capable of adjusting its time threshold parameters following the rules described by Liu et al. 2007. The swarm adapts the ratio of foragers to resters (division of labor) in order to maximize the net swarm energy for a given food density. A probabilistic finite state machine (PFSM) and a number of difference equations are developed to describe collective foraging at a macroscopic level. To model adaptation we introduce the new concepts of the sub-PFSM and private/public time thresholds. The model has been validated extensively with simulation trials, and results show that the model achieves very good accuracy in predicting the group performance of the swarm. Finally, a real-coded genetic algorithm is used to explore the parameter spaces and optimize the parameters of the adaptation algorithm. Although this paper presents a macroscopic probabilistic model for adaptive foraging, we argue that the approach could be applied to any adaptive swarm system in which the heterogeneity of the system is coupled with its time parameters.
Renal Membrane Transport of Glutathione in Toxicology and Disease
Authors: Lash L. H.
Published: July 2010

Membrane transport processes, at both the plasma membranes and intracellular membranes, play critical roles in renal function and are a determining factor in the susceptibility of renal epithelial cells to blood-borne drugs and toxic chemicals. Proximal tubular epithelial cells possess a large array of transport proteins for organic anions, organic cations, and peptides on both basolateral and brush-border plasma membranes. Although these transporters function in excretion of waste products and reabsorption of nutrients, they also play a role in the susceptibility of the kidneys to drugs and other toxicants in the blood. The proximal tubules are typically the primary target cells because they are the first epithelial cell population exposed to such chemicals in either the renal plasma or glomerular filtrate and because of their large array of membrane transporters. Besides transport across the basolateral and brush-border plasma membranes, transport across intracellular membranes such as the mitochondrial inner membrane is a critical determinant of metabolite distribution. To illustrate the function of these transporters, carrier-mediated processes for transport of the tripeptide and antioxidant glutathione across the basolateral, brush-border, and mitochondrial inner membranes of the renal proximal tubule are reviewed. Studies are summarized that have identified the involvement of specific carrier proteins and characterized the role of these transporters in glutathione metabolism and turnover, susceptibility of the proximal tubules to oxidative and other stresses, and modulation in disease and other pathological processes.
Pathology of Inhalational Anthrax Animal Models
Authors: Twenhafel N. A.
Published: July 2010

Anthrax is a lethal disease caused by the bacterium Bacillus anthracis. There are three principal forms of the disease in humans—cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and inhalational—depending on the route of exposure. Of these, inhalational anthrax is the most dangerous; it is rapidly fatal; and it has been used as a deadly biological warfare agent in the last decade. Suitable animal models of inhalational anthrax have been utilized to study pathogenesis of disease, investigate bacterial characteristics such as virulence, and test effectiveness of vaccines and therapeutics. To date, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, and nonhuman primates are the principal animal species used to study inhalational anthrax. Mice are valuable in studying early pathogenesis and bacterial characteristics. Few pathologic changes occur in the mouse models but may include marked bacteremia and lymphocyte destruction in the spleen and mediastinal lymph nodes. Rabbits and guinea pigs rapidly develop fulminate systemic disease, and pathologic findings often include necrotizing lymphadenitis; splenitis; pneumonia; vasculitis; and hemorrhage, congestion, and edema in multiple tissues. Nonhuman primates consistently develop the full range of classic lesions of human inhalational anthrax, including meningitis; lymphadenitis; splenitis; mediastinitis; pneumonia; vasculitis; and hemorrhage, congestion, and edema in multiple tissues. This review focuses on basic characteristics of the bacterium and its products, key aspects of pathogenesis, and the pathologic changes commonly observed in each animal model species.
A Survey on the Knowledge, Attitude, and Behavior Regarding Contraception Use Among Pregnant Teenagers in Beijing, China
Authors: Wu Liping
Published: July 2010

Teenage pregnancy is an important public health issue in the world. However, little is known about the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to contraception among pregnant teenagers in China. The aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to contraception among pregnant teenagers. From April 2007 to June 2007, an investigator designed questionnaire was used to survey 53 pregnant teenagers about their knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors regarding contraception.The convenience sample was from four women and children health care hospitals in Beijing. Descriptive statistics were used. In the majority of the teenagers (73.6%, n = 39), this was their first pregnancy. The teenagers had limited knowledge regarding contraception (69.8%, n = 37) and scored <10 (on a 20-point scale) on the Contraceptive Knowledge subscale. Only 24.5% ( n = 13) teenagers obtained contraceptive knowledge from school or parents; the most common source of contraceptive information came from their friends, the Internet, and the media. In addition, 11.3% ( n = 6) pregnant teenagers considered that it was unnecessary to obtain contraceptive knowledge.The proportion of teenagers who reported using contraceptive methods with their first sexual encounter was 52.8% (n = 28). Of the 30.2% (n = 16) who reported always using contraceptive methods in the past 12 months, the majority chose condoms. The findings suggest that many teenagers have limited knowledge of the different kinds of contraceptive methods, including the use of condoms. But some of teenagers had misguided attitudes that contraception was unnecessary, and few teenag- ers insisted on using contraception due to incorrect information.
Preparing Rural Music Teachers: Reflecting on “Shared Visions”
Authors: Bates Vincent C.
Published: July 2010

This article provides a view of rural music teacher preparation through the lens of critical social theory, drawing from literature about rural schools and social class, and the author’s experience as a rural student, teacher, and music teacher educator. It brings to light patterns of privilege and oppression within current ideals, standards, and practices, particularly as they might relate to “shared visions” in music education and/or music teacher education. The overall aim, nonetheless, is practical—identifying specific problems in preparing rural music teachers and suggesting a range of possible solutions.
Self-Organizing Sensorimotor Maps Plus Internal Motivations Yield Animal-Like Behavior
Authors: Butz Martin V. , Shirinov Elshad , Reif Kevin L.
Published: July 2010

This article investigates how a motivational module can drive an animat to learn a sensorimotor cognitive map and use it to generate flexible goal-directed behavior. Inspired by the rat’s hippocampus and neighboring areas, the time growing neural gas (TGNG) algorithm is used, which iteratively builds such a map by means of temporal Hebbian learning. The algorithm is combined with a motivation module, which activates goals, priorities, and consequent activity gradients in the developing cognitive map for the self-motivated control of behavior. The resulting motivated TGNG thus combines a neural cognitive map learning process with top-down, self-motivated, anticipatory behavior control mechanisms. While the algorithms involved are kept rather simple, motivated TGNG displays several emergent behavioral patterns, self-sustainment, and reliable latent learning. We conclude that motivated TGNG constitutes a solid basis for future studies on self-motivated cognitive map learning, on the design of further enhanced systems with additional cognitive modules, and on the realization of highly adaptive, interactive, goal-directed, cognitive systems.
Adjusting the Vibratory Response of a Micro Mirror via Position and Velocity Feedback
Authors: Veryeri Ilgar , Basdogan Ipek
Published: July 2010

We changed the vibratory (dynamic) response of a micro mirror experimentally using a feedback circuit. For this purpose, we first measured the vibrational velocity of the mirror using a Laser Doppler Vibrometer and then multiplied it with a gain and fed the signal back to the mirror to change its effective damping. We also investigate the influence of velocity and position feedback on the dynamic response of the same mirror through numerical simulations. For this purpose, first, a transfer function of the mirror was obtained based on the experimental frequency sweep data of the first two vibration modes. Then, the dynamic response of the mirror was investigated for different feedback gains via simulations. The results of our study show that the vibration amplitude or settling time of the mirror can be adjusted by altering the velocity feedback gain and the coupled vibration modes of the mirror can be separated from each other by adjusting the position feedback gain.
Altered production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor by peripheral blood immune cells in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Yoshimura Satoshi , Ochi Hirofumi , Isobe Noriko , Matsushita Takuya , Motomura Kyoko , Matsuoka Takeshi , Minohara Motozumi , Kira Jun-ichi
Published: July 2010

Background: Within multiple sclerosis lesions, brain-derived neurotrophic factor is detected in neurons and immunocytes.

Objective: To clarify brain-derived neurotrophic factor production by peripheral blood immunocytes and its relationship with clinical parameters in multiple sclerosis.

Methods: Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels were measured by conventional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay while brain-derived neurotrophic factor production by immunocytes was determined by an in situ enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 74 multiple sclerosis patients, 32 healthy controls, and 86 patients with other neurological diseases. The tyrosine kinase receptor TrkB expression level in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was measured by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results: Multiple sclerosis patients showed significantly higher serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels than healthy controls and patients with other neurological diseases. Multiple sclerosis patients with high brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels were younger, and showed fewer relapse numbers than those with low brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor production by T cells increased with age in healthy controls, but not in multiple sclerosis patients. Interferon beta induced a significant increase in serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor production from T cells and TrkB expression levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells were significantly enhanced in interferon beta-treated multiple sclerosis patients compared with untreated ones. Conclusions: A high brain-derived neurotrophic factor level is related to early mild disease in young multiple sclerosis patients. Interferon beta potentiates brain-derived neurotrophic factor production and brain-derived neurotrophic factor receptor expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, which may act beneficially.
The Perceived Medical Condition Self-Management Scale Applied to Persons with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Wallston Kenneth A. , Osborn Chandra Y. , Wagner Lois J. , Hilker Kellie A.
Published: July 2010

The Perceived Medical Condition Self-Management Scale (PMCSMS), a generic instrument developed to assess self-management self-efficacy in specific medical conditions, was tailored for use with HIV+ individuals and administered to 125 HIV+ adults, predominantly men. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.78, indicating internal consistency reliability. Correlations between the Perceived HIV Self-Management Scale (PHIVSMS) and other validated psychometric instruments measuring generalized self efficacy, dispositional optimism, depressive symptoms, positive and negative affect and HIV quality of life demonstrate the validity of using this scale with an HIV population. The PMCSMS has broad utility as a generic template that can easily be adapted to different medical conditions.
Coping Using Positive Reinterpretation in Parents of Children with Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Cheshire Anna , Barlow Julie , Powell Lesley
Published: July 2010

Use of the coping strategy positive reinterpretation was examined among parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP). Survey data ( n = 66) were used to gain a general picture of positive reinterpretation use, which was then explored in greater depth using semi-structured interviews ( n = 13). Positive reinterpretation was positively correlated with self-efficacy and negatively correlated with depression and stress. Interviews identified two types of positive reinterpretation: focusing on the positive aspects of the situation and finding meaning (in caring for a child with CP). Positive reinterpretation appeared to be an adaptive coping strategy used to deal with emotional stresses experienced by parents.
Disclosing Hepatitis C Infection Within Everyday Contexts
Authors: Hopwood Max , Nakamura Tamo , Treloar Carla
Published: July 2010

In this paper the authors quantify hepatitis C disclosure outcomes across social contexts and identify the factors associated with widespread disclosure of infection. In a cross-sectional survey of people with hepatitis C ( N = 504) more than half reported receiving a bad reaction from someone following disclosure. Unauthorized disclosure occurred, and many participants had been pressured into disclosing their infection. The factors associated with widespread disclosure were: education level; knowing other people with hepatitis C; feeling fatigued; receiving disclosure advice; and experiencing unauthorized disclosure. Bad reactions following disclosure are common and may impede health-seeking behaviour including uptake of hepatitis C treatment.
Technical Report on the Initial Cases of Single-Incision Laparoscopic Combined Cholecystectomy and Splenectomy in Children, Using Conventional Instruments
Authors: Yuk Him Tam  , Kim Hung Lee  , Kin Wai Chan  , Sihoe Jennifer Dart Yin , Sing Tak Cheung  , Kit Yi Pang Kristine
Published: July 2010

Aim. The authors report a technique to perform single-incision laparoscopic combined cholecystectomy and splenectomy in 3 children using conventional instruments. Methods . Three ports, including 5-mm and 3-mm ports, were placed through an infraumbilical incision for the procedure. Splenectomy was completed in most parts by crossing the 2 straight instruments. Results. The 3 patients, aged 11 to 13 years, with body weight 29 kg to 32 kg, underwent the procedure. In the first patient, 2 additional extraumbilical 5-mm ports were required to complete the splenectomy. After modification of the technique, combined cholecystectomy and splenectomy by SILS were successfully performed in the other 2 patients without complications, and postoperative courses were uneventful. Conclusions. Combined cholecystectomy and splenectomy in children by SILS is technically feasible using conventional instruments. Further studies are required to investigate its safety, benefits over conventional laparoscopic surgery, and refinements in the technique.
Will Tissue-Engineered Urinary Bladders Change Indications for a Laparoscopic Cystectomy?
Authors: Drewa Tomasz , Chlosta Piotr , Czajkowski Rafal
Published: July 2010

Radical open cystectomy is a treatment of choice for muscle invasive urinary bladder cancer. Laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LapRC) is surgically advanced and is an extremely difficult technique but presents many advantages. Urinary diversion (conduit, pouch or neobladder) when performed during laparoscopy necessitates a conversion to open procedure. Urinary diversion using an autologous bowel is associated with longer operative times and complications. The authors have analyzed the LapRC procedure and its 2 main parts—that is, bladder resection and urinary diversion. The emphasis was on the operative time and complications related to the urinary diversion procedure. A urinary diversion created in vitro could make the LapRC totally intracorporeal, and it could be completed within an acceptable time. Tissue engineering techniques used for urinary diversion after cystectomy shorten the operative time and help avoid serious complications related to bowel surgery. LapRC with tissue-engineered urinary diversion could become a management of choice for muscle invasive bladder cancer.
A Safe Technique for Closure of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Adult Patients
Authors: Li Feng-Qi , Li Sun  , Jian Hu  , Hui Pan
Published: July 2010

A patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) can be closed using various procedures, including transcatheter closure, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, and conventional surgery with division and suture. These procedures are feasible for treatment of PDA in a child, but are believed to be challenging when employed in an adult. The main danger is intraoperative bleeding. With a hemorrhage, inadvertent ductus damage/perforation during the isolated ductus, the traditional surgical approach was accomplished with considerable difficulty . This study reports a new procedure for these adult patients using an intrapericardial approach to the ductus. The operation was done as an emergency salvage procedure. Based on the results from the 4 cases of PDA, such technique is found to be simple, safe, and effective.
Reducing Race: News Themes in the 2008 Primaries
Authors: Squires Catherine R. , Jackson Sarah J.
Published: July 2010

This article presents a content analysis exploring how racial issues were addressed in newspaper and news magazine coverage of the 2008 Democratic primaries. Despite the presence of Latino and biracial candidates, discussion of race was limited by binary racial frames, resulting in the construction of racial groups as competing voting blocs (including frequent references to white voters) and few references to Barack Obama’s biracial heritage. The dominant framing constricted the range of racial issues to matters of interpersonal insensitivity and misguided statements and ignored matters of public policy and racial equity.
A Primer
Authors: Hackner Dani
Published: July 2010

In this the second part of a 2-part ICU staffing series, we enjoin the reader to enter the multidisciplinary discussion over the broad issue of ICU staffing. Part 1 (vol. 1 no. 2, March 2010) emphasized evidence based, patient-centered staffing and outlined some challenges from a nursing and staffing perspective. The section outlined principles, standard practices and human resources concerns for the clinician, manager and ICU director. In part 2, we explore design, management and business models as well as unit operations in relation to ICU staff and ICU patients. It includes evidence behind key concepts linking ICU structure, team design and staffing. The primer encourages ICU leaders to step out of the weeds and take a walk in the woods to explore each others’ perspectives and literature.
Ethical Issues Related to Extreme Prematurity
Authors: Wong Kam Wa , Suen Lorna Kwai Ping , Chan Helen Yue Lai
Published: July 2010

Advances in medical technology have increased treatment modalities for premature infants and have greatly improved their survival and clinical outcomes. However, saving the lives of extremely premature infants has become an ethical dilemma, considering the potential undesirable consequences on the baby and the family as a result of the intensive life-support efforts. The authors draw on 2 case scenarios to illustrate the limitations of advanced medical technology on extremely premature infants who experience significant morbidities and mortality. The ethical discussion concerns the doctrines of the sanctity of life and the quality of life, with emphasis on the best interest of the infant.
Sustained Low-Efficiency Daily Dialysis as Renal Replacement Therapy for the Critically Ill
Authors: Coritsidis George Nicholas
Published: July 2010

Understanding proper management of acute kidney injury (AKI) is important given that studies consistently demonstrate an increasing incidence rate of AKI in the critically ill. AKI carries a significant risk for mortality, which only increases if dialysis becomes a necessary treatment. It is not clear whether modalities other than conventional intermittent hemodialysis improve outcomes in AKI. Sustained low-efficiency daily dialysis (SLEDD) is a more recent extracorporeal treatment whose distinguishing characteristic is its hybrid integration of both continuous and intermittent hemodialysis modalities. Besides providing comparable hemodynamic stability through its decreased blood flow rate and extended hours of use, SLEDD is less complicated, is less expensive, and is convenient for staff and patient. As a result, its use in critical care is on the rise.