bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bcl‐2 suppresses hydrogen peroxide‐induced programmed cell death via OsVPE2 and OsVPE3, but not via OsVPE1 and OsVPE4, in rice
Authors: Deng Minjuan , Bian Hongwu , Xie Yakun , Kim Yongho , Wang Wenzhe , Lin Erpei , Zeng Zhanghui , Guo Fu , Pan Jianwei , Han Ning , Wang Junhui , Qian Qian , Zhu Muyuan
Published: October 2011

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is known to be a key player in apoptosis in animals. The components and pathways regulating H2O2‐induced programmed cell death in plants, however, remain largely unknown. In the present study, rice transgenic lines overexpressing Bcl‐2, a human apoptotic suppressor, were obtained. These transgenic lines showed increased tolerance to high levels of H2O2, resulting in increased seed germination rates, root elongation, root tip cell viability and chlorophyll retention compared to control lines. In the control lines, treatment with H2O2 resulted in DNA laddering and a clear terminal transferase dUTP nick end labeling signal, which are the hallmarks of programmed cell death. However, this effect was not detected in the Bcl‐2‐overexpressing transgenic lines. Further investigations indicated that Bcl‐2 suppressed H2O2‐induced programmed cell death but did not inhibit stress‐elicited reactive oxygen species production in rice. RT‐PCR revealed that the expression of the two vacuolar processing enzyme genes (i.e. OsVPE2 and OsVPE3) was dramatically induced by H2O2 in the wild‐type line but not in the Bcl‐2‐overexpressing line. Moreover, treatment with H2O2 resulted in the disruption of the vacuolar membrane in the wild‐type line. The expression levels of OsVPE1 and OsVPE4 did not significantly differ between the wild‐type line and the transgenic line that was treated or untreated with H2O2. The similar roles of Bcl‐2 and OsVPEs during endogenous reactive oxygen species‐triggered programmed cell death were also confirmed by NaCl stress in rice. To our knowledge, the present study is the first to demonsatrate that Bcl‐2 overexpression inhibits H2O2‐induced programmed cell death and enhances H2O2 tolerance. We propose that Bcl‐2 overexpression in rice suppresses the transcriptional activation of OsVPE2 and OsVPE3, but not of OsVPE1 or OsVPE4.
Overexpression of Dsk2/dUbqln results in severe developmental defects and lethality inDrosophila melanogasterthat can be rescued by overexpression of the p54/Rpn10/S5a proteasomal subunit
Authors: Lipinszki Zoltán , Pál Margit , Nagy Olga , Deák Péter , Hunyadi‐Gulyas Eva , Udvardy Andor
Published: October 2011

Polyubiquitin receptors execute the targeting of polyubiquitylated proteins to the 26S proteasome.In vitrostudies indicate that disturbance of the physiological balance among different receptor proteins impairs the proteasomal degradation of polyubiquitylated proteins. To study the physiological consequences of shifting thein vivoequilibrium between the p54/Rpn10 proteasomal and the Dsk2/dUbqln extraproteasomal polyubiquitin receptors, transgenicDrosophilalines were constructed in which the overexpression or RNA interference‐mediated silencing of these receptors can be induced. Flies overexpressing Flag–p54 were viable and fertile, without any detectable morphological abnormalities, although detectable accumulation of polyubiquitylated proteins demonstrated a certain level of proteolytic disturbance. Flag–p54 was assembled into the 26S proteasome and could fully complement the lethal phenotype of ap54null mutantDrosophilaline. The overexpression of Dsk2 caused severe morphological abnormalities in the late pupal stages, leading to pharate adult lethality, accompanied by a huge accumulation of highly polyubiquitylated proteins. The lethal phenotype of Dsk2 overexpression could be rescued in a double transgenic line coexpressing Flag–Dsk2 and Flag–p54. Although the double transgenic line was viable and fertile, it did not restore the proteolytic defects; the accumulation of the highly polyubiquitylated proteins was even more severe in the double transgenic line. Significant differences were found in the Dsk2–26S proteasome interaction inDrosophila melanogasteras compared withSaccharomyces cerevisiae. In yeast, Dsk2 can interact only with ΔRpn10 proteasomes and not with the wild‐type one. InDrosophila, Dsk2 does not interact with Δp54 proteasomes, but the interaction can be fully restored by complementing the Δp54 deletion with Flag–p54.

Structured digital abstract

 Dsk2 physically interacts with p54 by pull down (View Interaction: 1, 2)

 p54 binds to Dsk2 by pull down (View interaction)
Identification and verification of heat shock protein 60 as a potential serum marker for colorectal cancer
Authors: Hamelin Céline , Cornut Emilie , Poirier Florence , Pons Sylvie , Beaulieu Corinne , Charrier Jean‐Philippe , Haïdous Hader , Cotte Eddy , Lambert Claude , Piard Françoise , Ataman‐Önal Yasemin , Choquet‐Kastylevsky Geneviève
Published: October 2011

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major public health issue worldwide, and novel tumor markers may contribute to its efficient management by helping in early detection, prognosis or surveillance of disease. The aim of our study was to identify new serum biomarkers for CRC, and we followed a phased biomarker discovery and validation process to obtain an accurate preliminary assessment of potential clinical utility. We compared colonic tumors and matched normal tissue from 15 CRC patients, using two‐dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2D‐DIGE), and identified 17 proteins that had significant differential expression. These results were further confirmed by western blotting for heat shock protein (HSP) 60, glutathione‐S‐transferase Pi, α‐enolase, T‐complex protein 1 subunit β, and leukocyte elastase inhibitor, and by immunohistochemistry for HSP60. Using mAbs raised against HSP60, we developed a reliable (precision of 5–15%) and sensitive (0.3 ng·mL−1) immunoassay for the detection of HSP60 in serum. Elevated levels of HSP60 were found in serum from CRC patients in two independent cohorts; the receiver‐operating characteristic curve obtained in 112 patients with CRC and 90 healthy controls had an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.70, which was identical to the AUC of carcinoembryonic antigen. Combination of serum markers improved clinical performance: the AUC of a three‐marker logistic regression model combining HSP60, carcinoembryonic antigen and carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 reached 0.77. Serum HSP60 appeared to be more specific for late‐stage CRC; therefore, future studies should evaluate its utility for determining prognosis or monitoring therapy rather than early detection.
Elevated uric acid correlates with wound severity
Authors: Fernandez Melissa L , Upton Zee , Edwards Helen , Finlayson Kathleen , Shooter Gary K
Published: October 2011

Chronic venous leg ulcers are a major health issue and represent an often overlooked area of biomedical research. Nevertheless, it is becoming increasingly evident that new approaches to enhance healing outcomes may arise through better understanding the processes involved in the formation of chronic wounds. We have for the first time shown that the terminal purine catabolite uric acid (UA) is elevated in wound fluid (WF) from chronic venous leg ulcers with relative concentrations correlating with wound chronicity. We have also shown a corresponding depletion in UA precursors, including adenosine, with increased wound severity. Further, we have shown that xanthine oxidase, the only enzyme in humans that catalyses the production of UA in conjunction with a burst of free radicals, is active in chronic WF. Taken together, this provides compelling evidence that xanthine oxidase may play a critical role in the formation of chronic wounds by prolonging the inflammatory process.
Dopamine D1 Receptor‐Mediated Intracellular Responses in the Hypothalamus after Co‐Administration of Caffeine with MDMA
Authors: Vanattou‐Saïfoudine Natacha , Behan Brendan , Harkin Andrew
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  Markers of dopamine D1 receptor activation were determined to elucidate intracellular mechanisms associated with the combined effects of caffeine and 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), reported previously to produce increased toxicity, when compared with either drug alone. Caffeine (10 mg/kg) and MDMA (15 mg/kg) were administered to male Sprague Dawley rats alone and in combination. One hour after drug administration, core body temperature and phosphorylation of the dopamine D1‐related intracellular markers, cAMP response element binding protein (CREB), the dopamine and c‐AMP‐regulated phosphoprotein of 32 kDa (DARPP‐32) and expression of the immediate early gene and cellular activation marker c‐fos were determined in the hypothalamus. Co‐administration of caffeine with MDMA increased core body temperature when compared with MDMA or caffeine treatment alone. Pre‐treatment with the dopamine D1 receptor antagonist SCH 23390 (1 mg/kg, i.p.), 30 min. prior to caffeine and MDMA administration, produced a hypothermic response to MDMA that was unaffected by caffeine. Co‐administration of caffeine with MDMA increased p‐CREB, p‐DARPP‐32 and c‐fos expression when compared with either treatment alone. Pre‐treatment with SCH‐23390 attenuated the changes in p‐CREB, p‐DARPP and c‐fos. The results show an enhanced intracellular response when caffeine is combined with MDMA but not with either agent alone suggestive of synergistic intracellular actions convergent on a dopamine D1 receptor signalling pathway. A dopamine‐related synergy associated with the combined administration of caffeine and MDMA may have important use and safety implications for recreational drug users.
Regional Citrate Anticoagulation in Predilution Continuous Venovenous Hemofiltration Using Prismocitrate 10/2 Solution
Authors: Shum Hoi‐Ping , Chan King‐Chung , Yan Wing‐Wa
Published: October 2011

Regional citrate anticoagulation (RCA) for continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is associated with a longer filter life and fewer bleeding events. Complexity of the regimen is the major hurdle preventing widespread application. This study describes a simple predilution continuous venovenous hemofiltration (CVVH) protocol utilizing a commercially prepared replacement solution containing citrate (Prismocitrate 10/2). Ten patients with acute renal failure were evaluated. The Prismaflex system was used for predilution CVVH, with Prismocitrate 10/2 running at 2500 mL/h as the main predilution replacement. An 8.4% sodium bicarbonate solution was infused at 50 mL/h in the first 2 h followed by 30 mL/h; 10% calcium gluconate was given to achieve an ionized calcium (iCa) level of 1–1.2 mmol/L. The circuit was run for 72 h unless there was filter clotting, transportation was required, or the patient did not require further CRRT. Total treatment duration was 504.5 h. The post‐dilution equivalent ultrafiltration rate was 32.9 mL/kg/h (interquartile range [IQR] 31.6–38.2) and the median circuit life was 50.3 h (IQR 25.5–72.0). None of the circuit was changed due to circuit clotting. The median systemic iCa was 0.98 mmol/L (IQR 0.91–1.08). The total calcium‐to‐iCa ratio was 2.33 (IQR 2.21–2.45). None of the patients developed hypernatremia (Na ≥ 150 mmol/L) or citrate toxicity (total Ca‐to‐iCa ratio > 2.5 plus increasing metabolic acidosis), and metabolic alkalosis (pH ≥ 7.5) occurred in one patient. This simple RCA CVVH protocol using commercially‐prepared solution could be a feasible, relatively safe, and effective alternative to the conventional regimen for patients with a body weight up to 80 kg.
Neurorehabilitation in Sri Lanka: An Emerging Sub-Specialty for Neurology Trainees
Authors: Wijeratne Tissa
Published: October 2011

Sri Lanka has an ageing population with an impending epidemic of stroke at hand. Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has seen many recent advances in stroke services in the recent past providing a benchmark example for the countries in the Asia Pacific region, modeling the best care for stroke patients across the region with limited facilities they have. Three postgraduate trainees in neurology and medicine from Sri Lanka will spend a year at Western Health/ University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia for a period of 12 months for training in neurorehabilitation for stroke. It is timely for neurology trainees and trainees in internal medicine in Sri Lanka to be interested in neurorehabilitation. We sincerely hope the Board of study of Neurology, Post Graduate Institute of Medicine, Colombo, Sri Lanka will take the necessary steps to establish neurorehabilitation as an emerging sub-specialty for neurology trainees in Sri Lanka now.
Ischemic Involvement of the Primary Motor Cortex is a Prognostic Factor in Acute Stroke
Authors: Kaya Dilaver , Dincer Alp , Arman Fehim , Bakirci Nadi , Erzen Canan , Pamir M. Necmettin
Published: October 2011

Background

The location of the primary motor cortex can be detected in healthy adults using the findings of ‘T2 hypointensity’ and the ‘double layer sign’ on 3 T diffusion-weighted imaging. The aim of this study was to assess whether ischemic involvement of the primary motor cortex can be identified on 3 T diffusion-weighted imaging within six-hours after stroke onset and to evaluate whether this finding could predict clinical outcome three-months after ischemic stroke.

Methods

Sixty-five patients who had paralysis and ischemia of the anterior circulation underwent 3 T magnetic resonance imaging within six-hours of symptom onset. Follow-up MRI was obtained at 72 h. Anatomic localization and ischemic involvement of the primary motor cortex were evaluated on diffusion-weighted imaging by two investigators. Ischemic involvement on the primary motor cortex was classified into three grades. Ischemic lesion volumes were measured. We compared the favorable outcomes at three-months between subjects with and without ischemic involvement on the primary motor cortex using the NIHSS and modified Rankin Scale.

Results

Ischemic involvement on the primary motor cortex was identified in 52% of patients. Interrater agreement coefficients were 0·93 for the identification of ischemic involvement of primary motor cortex. As defined by scores on the modified Rankin Scale, among the patients with ischemic involvement of the primary motor cortex were worse than the patients without ischemic involvement of the primary motor cortex ( P = 0·01). The mean ischemic lesion volume at baseline diffusion-weighted imaging was 38·7 ± 41·7 cm3 and was 89·8 ± 93·6 cm3 at follow-up T2-WI. Ischemic involvement on the primary motor cortex (odds ratio: 14·7) was a determinant for worse outcome.

Conclusions

3T diffusion-weighted imaging can identify ischemic involvement on the primary motor cortex and may provide useful information for predicting outcome during the hyperacute stage. Ischemic involvement on the primary motor cortex has a significant negative impact on recovery.
Stepping towards Prevention of Bone Loss after Stroke: A Systematic Review of the Skeletal Effects of Physical Activity after Stroke
Authors: Borschmann Karen , Pang Marco Y. C. , Bernhardt Julie , Iuliano-Burns Sandra
Published: October 2011

Bone loss after stroke is pronounced, and contributes to increased fracture risk. People who fracture after stroke experience reduced mobility and increased mortality. Physical activity can maintain or improve bone mineral density and structure in healthy older adults, likely reducing fracture risk. The purpose of this systematic review was to investigate the skeletal effects of physical activity in adults affected by stroke. A search of electronic databases was undertaken.

Selection criteria of trials were prospective and controlled physical activity-based intervention participants with history of stroke, and bone-related outcome measures.

Effect sizes were calculated for outcomes of paretic and nonparetic limbs. Three of 349 identified records met the inclusion criteria. Small effect sizes were found in favor of physical activity in adults with chronic stroke ( n=95, 40% female, average age 63·8 years, more than one-year poststroke). Patients in intervention groups had significantly higher changes in femoral neck bone mineral density, tibial cortical thickness and trabecular bone mineral content of the paretic limb, compared with controls ( P<0·05). It is not known whether these benefits reduced fracture risk. There are limited studies investigating the skeletal effect of physical activity for adults poststroke. Given the increased risk of, and poor outcomes following a fracture after stroke, randomized trials are warranted to investigate the benefits of physical activity on bone, after stroke. Interventions are likely to be beneficial if implemented soon after stroke, when bone loss appears to be rapid and pronounced.
A mouse model of reverse cardiac remodelling following banding‐debanding of the ascending aorta
Authors: Bjørnstad J. L. , Skrbic B. , Sjaastad I. , Bjørnstad S. , Christensen G. , Tønnessen T.
Published: October 2011

Aim:  Myocardial remodelling during pressure overload might contribute to development of heart failure. Reverse remodelling normally occurs following aortic valve replacement for aortic stenosis; however, the details and regulatory mechanisms of reverse remodelling remain unknown. Thus, an experimental model of reverse remodelling would allow for studies of this process. Although models of aortic banding are widely used, only few reports of debanding models exist. The aim of this study was to establish a banding–debanding model in the mouse with repetitive careful haemodynamic evaluation by high‐resolution echocardiography.

Methods:  C57Bl/6 mice were subjected to ascending aortic banding and subsequent debanding. Cardiac geometry and function were evaluated by echocardiography, and left ventricular myocardium was analysed by histology and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  The degree of aortic banding was controlled by non‐invasive estimation of the gradient, and we found a close correlation between left ventricular mass estimated by echocardiography and weight at the time of killing. Aortic banding led to left ventricular hypertrophy, fibrosis and expression of foetal genes, indicating myocardial remodelling. Echocardiography revealed concentric left ventricular remodelling and myocardial dysfunction. Following debanding, performed via a different incision, there was rapid regression of left ventricular weight and normalization of both cardiac geometry and function by 14 days.

Conclusions:  We have established a reproducible and carefully characterized mouse model of reverse remodelling by banding and debanding of the ascending aorta. Such a model might contribute to increased understanding of the reversibility of cardiac pathology, which in turn might give rise to new strategies in heart failure treatment.
Evaluation of Methionine Supplements and Their Use in Grain‐based Feeds for Litopenaeus vannamei
Authors: Fox Joe M. , Humes Melisa , Allen Davis D. , Lawrence Addison L.
Published: October 2011

The use of dietary supplements in commercial shrimp production feeds is increasing because of the need to reduce marine meal (e.g., fish meal) content. Our study evaluated leaching and apparent digestibility of artificial methionine supplements and their use in determining appropriate feeding levels of methionine in practical fish meal replacement diets fed to Litopenaeus vannamei. Three forms of methionine were evaluated: dl‐methionine HCl, various mineral chelates of methionine, and a short‐chain synthetic methionine polymer. Results showed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in leaching loss of methionine from feeds with decreasing salinity and that leaching was significantly higher for dl‐methionine than other forms in all salinity treatments. No significant difference was shown in apparent digestibility of methionine among digestibility diets, with the exception of diets supplemented with dl‐methionine HCl. In two 6‐wk clear‐water growth trials, no significant difference in weight gain was shown by shrimp fed diets containing more than 0.4% methionine (1.14%, as percent of protein). This suggests that an appropriate feed level of methionine for practical plant protein‐based feeds is less than 0.4% of the diet. Results also indicated that mineral‐chelated and polymerized forms of methionine are appropriate for supplementation of plant protein‐based feeds.
Pigmentation of Pacific White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, by Dietary Astaxanthin Extracted from Haematococcus pluvialis
Authors: Ju Zhi Yong , Deng Dong‐Fang , Dominy Warren G. , Forster Ian P.
Published: October 2011

This study investigated the effectiveness of dietary supplementation of astaxanthin (Ax) from the Haematococcus pluvialis on growth, survival, and pigmentation in Pacific white shrimp. Ten test diets were processed to contain five levels of Ax (25, 50, 75, 100, and 150 mg/kg as fed basis) by adding the natural or synthetic Ax to a basal diet containing no Ax. Each diet and a commercial shrimp feed were fed to four replicate tanks of shrimp (12 shrimp/tank) for 8 wk. Neither the natural nor synthetic Ax affected shrimp growth or survival. After cooking, shrimp fed the diets containing the natural Ax exhibited a strong red color, compared to the light pink color of shrimp fed the remaining diets. Colorimetric readings and Ax content in cooked shrimp demonstrated that the natural esterified Ax had greater pigmentation efficiency than synthetic free Ax (P < 0.05). The Ax contents in shrimp tail muscle demonstrated significant correlation with the levels of dietary Ax. The supplementation level of the natural Ax for optimum pigmentation efficiency is in a range of 75–100 mg/kg diet. The Ax product used in this study contained only a small amount (ca. 5.0%) of other carotenoids, indicating that the high pigmentation efficiency was mainly due to algal esterified Ax.
Performance of Pacific White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, Reared in Zero‐Exchange Tank Systems Exposed to Different Light Sources and Intensities
Authors: Coyle Shawn D. , Bright Leigh Anne , Wood David R. , Neal Russell S. , Tidwell James H.
Published: October 2011

The development of biofloc production technology has generated significant commercial and research interest directed toward the inland culture of Pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei. Most work to date has been conducted in greenhouses, where photoautotrophic organisms are significant contributors to system functionality. In more temperate locations, operations in insulated buildings would reduce heating costs. This experiment was designed to evaluate the effect of light on shrimp cultured in intensive biofloc systems. A 92‐d experiment was conducted in 3.8‐m3 tanks. There were five light treatments: (1) natural sunlight (SUN) as a control (midday: 718 lx); (2) one metal halide light (MHL) (1074 lx); (3) one fluorescent light (1FL) (214 lx); (4) two fluorescent lights (2FL) (428 lx); and (5) three fluorescent lights (3FL) (642 lx). Artificial light treatments operated on a 12:12 daily cycle. There were three replicate tanks per treatment and each was separated by black plastic to prevent light transmission between replicates. Each tank was stocked at 465 shrimp/m2 of tank bottom (initial mean weight = 0.4 g). Light treatment had a significant (P≤ 0.05) impact on average individual weight, survival, harvest yield (kg/m2), and feed conversion ratio (FCR). Harvest yield and survival among shrimp in the SUN, MHL, and 1FL treatments were not significantly different. However, there was an inverse linear relationship (P≤ 0.05; R2 = 0.76) between the number of fluorescent fixtures and survival, which was related to greater concentrations of filamentous bacteria as the intensity of fluorescent light increased, causing gill fouling. Natural light and MHL did not result in high concentrations of filamentous bacteria. These results indicate that natural light, metal halide lighting, and/or relatively low levels of fluorescent lighting are suitable for indoor production of Pacific white shrimp in biofloc systems. Light spectrum and intensity can affect bacterial community structure, which has a profound effect on shrimp survival and production.
Biological Feasibility and Costs of Production of Large Channel Catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, for a Specialty Product Market
Authors: Engle Carole R. , Kumar Ganesh
Published: October 2011

Restaurant patrons, particularly in upscale locations, increasingly prefer entrées developed from portions cut from fillets larger than those currently sold by the US catfish, Ictalurus punctatus, industry. A production study evaluated the feasibility of producing the necessary size (1.6 kg) of catfish. Twelve 0.1‐ha earthen ponds were stocked with 0.363‐kg channel catfish at 2500 (low); 5000 (medium); or 7500 (high) fish/ha, with four replicates. Mean individual weight at harvest exceeded the mean target weight (1.6 kg) at the two lower densities, and the minimum target weight (1.36 kg) at the highest density. Percentages of fish (by weight) that did not meet the minimum weight required were: 1, 5, and 18%, in the low, medium, and high density treatments, respectively. Yields were significantly greater at higher densities (P < 0.05). Costs of production at the two higher densities were 4 to 7% higher than in the traditional multiple‐batch system, but increased to 51% at the lowest density. Results demonstrated the biological feasibility of producing channel catfish of a mean weight of 1.6 kg. Economic feasibility depends on (1) the price premium paid and (2) development of a market for fish sizes between current acceptable maximum sizes accepted and 1.36 kg.
Bīrūnī’s Thought and Legacy
Authors: Mirza Mahan
Published: October 2011

This is a survey article on the thought and legacy of the celebrated Muslim scientist and polymath Abū al‐Bīrūnī. It provides a brief background on his life and times, key contributions, scholarly method, ethics, and assesses his legacy in light of recent publications. Aspects that are highlighted are the interplay of science and religion in reference to Ibn Rushd and Ghazālī, the critical reception of Aristotle in classical Islam in relation to Ibn Sīnā, and the influence of the Arabic intellectual culture on Western Europe.
A plant‐based system for rapid production of influenza vaccine antigens
Authors: Shoji Yoko , Farrance Christine E. , Bautista James , Bi Hong , Musiychuk Konstantin , Horsey April , Park HeeWoo , Jaje Jennifer , Green Brian J. , Shamloul Moneim , Sharma Satish , Chichester Jessica A. , Mett Vadim , Yusibov Vidadi
Published: October 2011

Please cite this paper as: Shoji et al. (2011) A plant‐based system for rapid production of influenza vaccine antigens. Influenza and Other Respiratory Viruses 6(3), 204–210.

Background  Influenza virus is a globally important respiratory pathogen that causes a high degree of annual morbidity and mortality. Significant antigenic drift results in emergence of new, potentially pandemic, virus variants. The best prophylactic option for controlling emerging virus strains is to manufacture and administer pandemic vaccines in sufficient quantities and to do so in a timely manner without impacting the regular seasonal influenza vaccine capacity. Current, egg‐based, influenza vaccine production is well established and provides an effective product, but has limited capacity and speed.

Objectives  To satisfy the additional global demand for emerging influenza vaccines, high‐performance cost‐effective technologies need to be developed. Plants have a potential as an economic and efficient large‐scale production platform for vaccine antigens.

Methods  In this study, a plant virus‐based transient expression system was used to produce hemagglutinin (HA) proteins from the three vaccine strains used during the 2008–2009 influenza season, A/Brisbane/59/07 (H1N1), A/Brisbane/10/07 (H3N2), and B/Florida/4/06, as well as from the recently emerged novel H1N1 influenza A virus, A/California/04/09.

Results  The recombinant plant‐based HA proteins were engineered and produced in Nicotiana benthamiana plants within 2 months of obtaining the genetic sequences specific to each virus strain. These antigens expressed at the rate of 400–1300 mg/kg of fresh leaf tissue, with >70% solubility. Immunization of mice with these HA antigens induced serum anti‐HA IgG and hemagglutination inhibition antibody responses at the levels considered protective against these virus infections.

Conclusions  These results demonstrate the feasibility of our transient plant expression system for the rapid production of influenza vaccine antigens.
The Virtue Blind Spot: Do Affective Forecasting Errors Undermine Virtuous Behavior?
Authors: Sandstrom Gillian M. , Dunn Elizabeth W.
Published: October 2011

Why is it difficult to be virtuous? Although cultural wisdom teaches that cultivating virtue brings happiness—and empirical studies have demonstrated the long‐term benefits of acting virtuously—many people seem to behave as though exercising virtues is difficult, or even painful. When it comes to virtue, any benefits for the self may seem distant: short‐term pain for long‐term gain. We propose, however, that behaving virtuously often provides affective benefits even in the short term, but these benefits are obscured by systematic affective forecasting errors. Using five virtues (humanity, wisdom, courage, temperance, and transcendence), we demonstrate that people tend to feel happier after acting virtuously. We also show that people do not realize that these short‐term emotional benefits will occur; when asked to predict how they will feel, people make inaccurate affective forecasts. We argue that these affective forecasting errors drive people away from the exercise of virtue.
Treatment Choice and Placebo Expectation Effects
Authors: Geers Andrew , Rose Jason
Published: October 2011

Placebo expectations can have a strong influence on physical and mental health outcomes. In prior research examining placebo expectation effects, participants have been assigned placebo treatments rather than being actively involved in selecting their treatment. In modern health care, however, individuals are often involved in health care decisions. We review relevant literature regarding choice and placebo expectation effects and conclude that exercising choice over a treatment should strengthen placebo effects. Data relevant to this hypothesis is reviewed. Next, we provide a framework for understanding the key variables involved in mediating and moderating the influence of treatment choice on placebo expectation effects. Finally, theoretical and practical issues revolving around treatment choice in the context of placebo effects are raised.
Self‐Awareness Part 1: Definition, Measures, Effects, Functions, and Antecedents
Authors: Morin Alain
Published: October 2011

Self‐awareness represents the capacity of becoming the object of one’s own attention. In this state one actively identifies, processes, and stores information about the self. This paper surveys the self‐awareness literature by emphasizing definition issues, measurement techniques, effects and functions of self‐attention, and antecedents of self‐awareness. Key self‐related concepts (e.g., minimal, reflective consciousness) are distinguished from the central notion of self‐awareness. Reviewed measures include questionnaires, implicit tasks, and self‐recognition. Main effects and functions of self‐attention consist in self‐evaluation, escape from the self, amplification of one’s subjective experience, increased self‐knowledge, self‐regulation, and inferences about others’ mental states (Theory‐of‐Mind). A neurocognitive and socioecological model of self‐awareness is described in which the role of face‐to‐face interactions, reflected appraisals, mirrors, media, inner speech, imagery, autobiographical knowledge, and neurological structures is underlined.
A Brief Feminist Review and Critique of the Sociology of Alcohol‐Use and Substance‐Abuse Treatment Approaches
Authors: Peralta Robert L. , Jauk Daniela
Published: October 2011

Guided by a sociology‐of‐gender framework, we provide an overview and critique of recent academic debates on substance‐use, particularly alcohol‐use. We note that substance use research has been useful for illuminating areas central to sociological inquiry. In limited scope, we focus on the relationships between alcohol‐use, gender, marginalization, violence, and sexualities. Alcohol‐use, we argue, is highly meaningful yet a paradox in that alcohol‐use both upholds and violates gender and sexuality norms. The active construction of gender is particularly visible when focusing on alcohol, gender and violence. We also claim that alcohol plays a role in the maintenance of a gendered society. We conclude by offering suggestions for future sociologically informed research and treatment approaches.
Testing DNA barcoding in closely related groups of Lysimachia L. (Myrsinaceae)
Authors: ZHANG CAI‐YUN , WANG FENG‐YING , YAN HAI‐FEI , HAO GANG , HU CHI‐MING , GE XUE‐JUN
Published: October 2011

It has been suggested that rbcL and matK are the core barcodes in plants, but they are not powerful enough to distinguish between closely related plant groups. Additional barcodes need to be evaluated to improve the level of discrimination between plant species. Because of their well‐studied taxonomy and extreme diversity, we used Chinese Lysimachia (Myrsinaceae) species to test the performance of core barcodes (rbcL and matK) and two additional candidate barcodes (trnH‐psbA and the nuclear ribosomal ITS); 97 accessions from four subgenus representing 34 putative Lysimachia species were included in this study. And many closely related species pairs in subgen. Lysimachia were covered to detect their discriminatory power. The inefficiency of rbcL and matK alone or combined in closely related plant groups was validated in this study. TrnH‐psbA combined with rbcL + matK did not yet perform well in Lysimachia groups. In contrast, ITS, alone or combined with rbcL and/or matK, revealed high resolving ability in Lysimachia. We support ITS as a supplementary barcode on the basis of core barcode rbcL and matK. Besides, this study also illustrates several mistakes or underlying evolutionary events in Lysimachia detected by DNA barcoding.
Optimal Production and Admission Policies in Make‐to‐Stock/Make‐to‐Order Manufacturing Systems
Authors: Iravani Seyed M. R. , Liu Tieming , Simchi‐Levi David
Published: October 2011

In this article, we study optimal production and admission control policies in manufacturing systems that produce two types of products: one type consists of identical items that are produced to stock, while the other has varying features and is produced to order. The model is motivated by applications from various industries, in particular, the automobile industry, where a part supplier receives orders from both an original equipment manufacturer and the aftermarket. The product for the original equipment manufacturer is produced to stock, it has higher priority, and its demands are fully accepted. The aftermarket product is produced to order, and its demands can be either accepted or rejected. We characterize the optimal production and admission policies with a partial‐linear structure, and using computational analysis, we provide insights into the benefits of the new policies. We also investigate the impact of production capacity, cost structure, and demand structure on system performance.
NERJIT: Using Net Requirement Data in Kanban‐Controlled Jumbled‐Flow Shops
Authors: Ardalan Ali , Diaz Rafael
Published: October 2011

The bold lines that have separated the application of specific production planning and control techniques to specific production systems are being blurred by continuous advances in production technologies and innovative operational procedures. Oral communication among dispatchers and production units has given way to electronic communication between production planners and these units by continuous progress in information technologies. Current production literature alludes to the idea that, collectively, these advances have paved the way for application of Just‐In‐Time (JIT) production concepts, which were originally developed for mass production systems, in intermittent production systems. But this literature does not actually consider the possibility. This article presents a modification to JIT procedures to make them more suitable for jumbled‐flow shops. This article suggests providing real‐time information about net‐requirements for each product to each work center operator for setting production priorities at each work center. Simulation experiments conducted for this study show that using Net‐Requirements in JIT (NERJIT) reduces customer wait time by 45–60% while reducing inventory slightly. The analysis of work centers’ input and output stock‐point inventories shows that using the information about net‐requirements results in production of items that are in current demand. NERJIT results in smaller input stock‐point inventory and availability of products with higher priority in the output stock‐points of work centers.
Motivation of Latina/o Students in Algebra I: Intertwining Research and Reflections
Authors: Ruiz Elsa Cantú
Published: October 2011

Latinas/os, the largest and fastest growing minority ethnic group in the United States (impels research that focuses on the education of Latinas/os and the need to reduce the achievement gap that persists between Latinas/os and other groups. Such research has gained in popularity; however, it is still very limited. I use my teaching experience with Latina/o students to highlight the need to motivate Latina/o students in Algebra I, a gatekeeper course for many minority students. In addition, also included are several factors affecting Latina/o students' motivation to learn. The call is urgent and researchers and teachers must pay close attention to the mathematics education of Latina/o students and to the positive consequence on the social and economic welfare of America.
The role of the subfornical organ in angiotensin II–salt hypertension in the rat
Authors: Osborn John W. , Hendel Michael D. , Collister John P. , Ariza‐Guzman Pilar A. , Fink Gregory D.
Published: October 2011

Hypertension caused by chronic infusion of angiotensin II (Ang II) in experimental animals is dependent, in part, on increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. This chronic sympathoexcitatory response is amplified by a high‐salt diet, suggesting an interaction of circulating Ang II and dietary salt on sympathetic regulatory pathways in the brain. The present study tested the hypothesis that the subfornical organ (SFO), a forebrain circumventricular organ known to be activated by circulating Ang II, is crucial to the pathogenesis of hypertension induced by chronic Ang II administration in rats on a high‐salt diet (Ang II–salt model). Rats were randomly selected to undergo either subfornical organ lesion (SFOx) or sham surgery (Sham) and then placed on a high‐salt (2% NaCl) diet. One week later, rats were instrumented for radiotelemetric measurement of mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) and placed in metabolic cages to measure sodium and water balance. Baseline MAP was slightly (but not statistically) lower in SFOx compared with Sham rats during the 5 day control period. During the subsequent 10 days of Ang II administration, MAP was statistically lower in SFOx rats. However, when MAP responses to Ang II were analysed by comparing the change from the 5 day baseline period, only on the fifth day of Ang II was MAP significantly different between groups. There were no differences between groups for water or sodium balance throughout the protocol. We conclude that, although the SFO is required for the complete expression of Ang II–salt hypertension in the rat, other brain sites are also involved.
Mechanisms of cramp contractions: peripheral or central generation?
Authors: Minetto Marco Alessandro , Holobar Aleš , Botter Alberto , Ravenni Roberta , Farina Dario
Published: October 2011

Non‐technical summary  There is still a debate on the origin of muscle cramps, which may be from the peripheral or the central nervous system. In this study we show that cramps electrically induced in the abductor hallucis of healthy men do occur with and without a proximal nerve block. However, cramps elicited during the nerve block required greater stimulation frequency, lasted for a substantially shorter interval, and presented different motor unit behaviour with respect to cramps induced without the block. These findings suggest the relevance of spinal involvement in both the origin and sustenance of muscle cramps.
Distinct roles for IT and IH in controlling the frequency and timing of rebound spike responses
Authors: Engbers Jordan D. T. , Anderson Dustin , Tadayonnejad Reza , Mehaffey W. Hamish , Molineux Michael L. , Turner Ray W.
Published: October 2011

Non‐Technical Summary  The property of excitability is conferred to specific cell types through the action of a host of ion channels. Two classes of ion channels which play crucial roles in cellular excitability are T‐type calcium and hyperpolarization‐activated cyclic‐nucleotide (HCN) channels. Given that T‐type and HCN channel availability is increased upon hyperpolarization, T‐type‐ and HCN‐mediated currents are critical determinants of rebound depolarizations in many cell types. Rebound responses have long been documented in deep cerebellar nuclear (DCN) neurons; however, the extent to which T‐type‐ and HCN‐mediated currents contribute to rebound depolarizations following physiological input has not been established. Using a combination of in vitro electrophysiological and in silico techniques, we define the roles of T‐type‐ and HCN‐mediated currents in controlling the frequency and latency of DCN rebound spike output. Our study demonstrates that T‐type and HCN channels become sufficiently available during physiological levels of hyperpolarization to make distinct contributions to the frequency and latency of rebound responses.
A prospective randomised longitudinal MRI study of left ventricular adaptation to endurance and resistance exercise training in humans
Authors: Spence Angela L. , Naylor Louise H. , Carter Howard H. , Buck Christopher L. , Dembo Lawrence , Murray Conor P. , Watson Philip , Oxborough David , George Keith P. , Green Daniel J.
Published: October 2011

Non‐Technical Summary  This is the first study, to our knowledge, to use cardiac MRI before and after intensive and closely supervised resistance and endurance exercise training in humans. There is a long held belief that these different forms of training induce ‘concentric’ and ‘eccentric’ adaptation of the heart, but this concept is based on echocardiographic assessments and cross‐sectional comparison of different types of elite athletes. Our findings, using highly sensitive MRI methodology, suggest that concept may need to be reconsidered. This study is of fundamental importance to the understanding of the impact of exercise on human cardiac morphology and physiology.
Axial-Flow Ventilation Fan Design Through Multi-Objective Optimization to Enhance Aerodynamic Performance
Authors: Kim Jin-Hyuk , Kim Jae-Woo , Kim Kwang-Yong
Published: October 2011

This paper presents an optimization procedure for axial-flow ventilation fan design through a hybrid multiobjective evolutionary algorithm (MOEA) coupled with a response surface approximation (RSA) surrogate model. Numerical analysis of a preliminary fan design is conducted by solving three-dimensional (3-D) Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) equations with the shear stress transport (SST) turbulence model. The multiobjective optimization processes are performed twice to understand the coupled effects of diverse variables. The first multiobjective optimization process is conducted with three design variables defining stagger angles at the hub, mid-span, and tip, and the second is conducted with five design variables defining hub-to-tip ratio, hub cap installation distance, hub cap ratio, and the stagger angles at the mid-span and tip. Two aerodynamic performance parameters, the total efficiency and total pressure rise, are selected as the objective functions for optimization. These objective functions are numerically assessed through 3-D RANS analysis at design points sampled by Latin hypercube sampling in the design space. The optimization yields a maximum increase in efficiency of 1.8% and a 31.4% improvement in the pressure rise. The off-design performance is also improved in most of the optimum designs except in the region of low flow rate.
Secondary Flow in Semi-Circular Ducts
Authors: Larsson I. A. S. , Lindmark E. M. , Lundström T. S. , Nathan G. J.
Published: October 2011

Turbulent secondary flows are motions in the transverse plane, perpendicular to a main, axial flow. They are encountered in non-circular ducts and can, although the velocity is only of the order of 1–3% of the streamwise bulk velocity, affect the characteristics of the mean flow and the turbulent structure. In this work, the focus is on secondary flow in semi-circular ducts which has previously not been reported. Both numerical and experimental analyses are carried out with high accuracy. It is found that the secondary flow in semi-circular ducts consists of two pairs of counter rotating corner vortices, with a velocity in the range reported previously for related configurations. Agreement between simulation and experimental results are excellent when using a second moment closure turbulence model, and when taking the experimental and numerical uncertainty into account. New and unique results of the secondary flow in semi-circular ducts have been derived from verified simulations and validating laser-based experiments.
Identification of
fusB
-Mediated Fusidic Acid Resistance Islands in Staphylococcus epidermidis Isolates
Authors: Chen Hsiao-Jan , Tsai Jui-Chang , Hung Wei-Chun , Tseng Sung-Pin , Hsueh Po-Ren , Teng Lee-Jene
Published: October 2011

To understand the high prevalence of
fusB
genes in fusidic acid-resistant
Staphylococcus epidermidis
, analysis of resistance elements in 34 isolates was performed. First, sequence analysis of the
aj1
-LP-
fusB
region indicated that at least three types were present. Type I contained full-length
aj1
, type II contained a partial
aj1
truncated from nucleotide position 93 to 421, and type III contained a more truncated
aj1
that retained only the last 37 bp. Isolates with type I or type II
aj1
displayed slightly higher levels of resistance to fusidic acid (MICs, 8 to 32 μg/ml) than did those with type III
aj1
(MICs, 4 to 16 μg/ml). Subsequent sequencing of the flanking regions of
fusB
from four selected isolates carrying different types of
aj1
-LP-
fusB
regions revealed that the
fusB
genes were all located on phage-related resistance islands (RIs), referred to as SeRI

fusB

-2793
, SeRI

fusB

-704
, SeRI

fusB

-5907
, and SeRI

fusB

-7778
, respectively. Among them, three islands (SeRI

fusB

-2793
, SeRI

fusB

-704
, and SeRI

fusB

-5907
) were located downstream of
groEL
(corresponding to the 44-min position based on
Staphylococcus aureus
whole genomic sequences), and one (SeRI

fusB

-7778
) was located downstream of
rpsR
(corresponding to the 8-min position). All of the RIs were inserted into integrase-recognized
att
sites. Among 34 isolates, the insertion sites of
fusB
RIs were mostly (28/34, 82%) located downstream of
groEL
and two were located downstream of
rpsR
, but four remained unidentified. The pulsotype distribution indicated that
fusB
-containing
S. epidermidis
isolates were heterogeneous. In conclusion, the
fusB
resistance determinant in
S. epidermidis
was highly associated with phage-related RIs. This is the first report of
fusB
RI in
S. epidermidis
.