bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contrasting Regional Responses to Increasing Leaf-Level Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide over Australia
Authors: Cruz Faye T. , Pitman Andrew J. , McGregor John L. , Evans Jason P.
Published: October 2009

Using a coupled atmosphere–land surface model, simulations were conducted to characterize the regional climate changes that result from the response of stomates to increases in leaf-level carbon dioxide (CO2) under differing conditions of moisture availability over Australia. Multiple realizations for multiple Januarys corresponding to dry and wet years were run, where only the leaf-level CO2 was varied at 280, 375, 500, 650, 840, and 1000 ppmv and the atmospheric CO2 was fixed at 375 ppmv. The results show the clear effect of increasing leaf-level CO2 on the transpiration via the stomatal response, particularly when sufficient moisture is available. Statistically significant reductions in transpiration generally lead to a significantly warmer land surface with decreases in rainfall. Increases in CO2 lead to increases in the magnitude and areal extent of the statistically significant mean changes in the surface climate. However, the results also show that the availability of moisture substantially affects the effect of increases in the leaf-level CO2, particularly for a moisture-limited region. The physiological feedback can indirectly lead to more rainfall via changes in the low-level moisture convergence and vertical velocity, which result in a cooling simulated over Western Australia. The significant changes in the surface climate presented in the results suggest that it is still important to incorporate these feedbacks in future climate assessments and projections for Australia. The influence of moisture availability also indicates that the capacity of the physiological feedback to affect the future climate may be affected by uncertainties in rainfall projections, particularly for water-stressed regions such as Australia.
Convection Initiation along Soil Moisture Boundaries in the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Frye John D. , Mote Thomas L.
Published: October 2009

Boundaries between two dissimilar air masses have been shown to be the focus region for convection initiation. One feature that has been shown to create these boundaries, as well as mesoscale circulation patterns conducive for convection, is soil moisture heterogeneities. These relationships have been validated in modeling studies, short-term field campaigns, and reanalysis of severe weather events. This study examines the role of soil moisture on convection initiation by using observational data over 7 yr (1998–2004) in the southern Great Plains. A key component to this research is the recently developed daily soil moisture product from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) Microwave Imager (TMI). The locations of convection initiation, based on the Weather Surveillance Radar-1988 Doppler (WSR-88D) data, were compared to volumetric soil moisture values and volumetric soil moisture gradient values. The locations of convection initiation were also examined based on synoptic-type day. On synoptically benign days, increased soil moisture and soil moisture gradient values were associated with decreased convection initiation, to a point. After soil moisture reached 15% (25%) on days with (without) a low-level jet, the likelihood of convection initiation increased. On synoptically primed days, the probabilities of convection initiation were more variable throughout the range of soil moisture values, indicating that the synoptically primed conditions may reduce the influence of soil moisture heterogeneities. Results indicate that a critical value in soil moisture and soil moisture gradient may exist that alters the mesoscale effect of changes in soil moisture on convection initiation, particularly on days that would be classified as synoptically benign.
Comparison of Evaporation and Cold Pool Development between Single-Moment and Multimoment Bulk Microphysics Schemes in Idealized Simulations of Tornadic Thunderstorms
Authors: Dawson Daniel T. , Xue Ming , Milbrandt Jason A. , Yau M. K.
Published: October 2009

Idealized simulations of the 3 May 1999 Oklahoma tornadic supercell storms are conducted at various horizontal grid spacings ranging from 1 km to 250 m, using a sounding extracted from a prior 3-km grid spacing real-data simulation. A sophisticated multimoment bulk microphysics parameterization scheme capable of predicting up to three moments of the particle or drop size distribution (DSD) for several liquid and ice hydrometeor species is evaluated and compared with traditional single-moment schemes. The emphasis is placed on the impact of microphysics, specifically rain evaporation and size sorting, on cold pool strength and structure, and on the overall reflectivity structure of the simulated storms. It is shown through microphysics budget analyses and examination of specific processes within the low-level downdraft regions that the multimoment scheme has important advantages, which lead to a weaker and smaller cold pool and better reflectivity structure, particularly in the forward-flank region of the simulated supercells. Specifically, the improved treatment of evaporation and size sorting, and their effects on the predicted rain DSDs by the multimoment scheme helps to control the cold bias often found in the simulations using typical single-moment schemes. The multimoment results are more consistent with observed (from both fixed and mobile mesonet platforms) thermodynamic conditions within the cold pools of the discrete supercells of the 3 May 1999 outbreak.
Revolutionizing Ritual Interaction in the Classroom
Authors: Carmel Sargent Tanja
Published: October 2009

Over the past decade, educational leaders in China have maintained that the pattern of social interactions in Chinese classrooms is not conducive to the cultivation of innovativeness and creativity and that this lack of creativity is a major barrier to China’s global competitiveness. One key response has been the implementation of the 2001 New Curriculum reforms in basic education. This article draws on qualitative classroom observation and in-depth interview data, as well as quantitative survey data, from Gansu province to investigate the extent to which classroom interactions differ substantially in Chinese primary school classrooms that are implementing the New Curriculum reforms compared with those that are not. To the extent that individuals are constructed by the interactions in which they participate, changes in classrooms could have far-reaching implications for contemporary youth socialized differently than those of previous generations, and for the future social, cultural, and political order of China.
Union Power in China Source, Operation, and Constraints
Authors: Feng Chen
Published: October 2009

Why are the All-China Federation of Trade Unions and its regional branches, or union bureaucracies, able to play an active role in labor legislation, unionization, and labor dispute settlements, while their grassroots organizations, or workplace unions, remain haplessly impotent and incapable of representing workers? This article argues that union bureaucracies’ power and its operation are decisively reliant upon their formal government status. While a government status constrains union bureaucracies’ autonomy, it also paradoxically accounts for their influence in areas in which their active role is permitted and expected by the government. However, workplace unions’ subordination to management leaves them no power whatsoever. Union bureaucracies’ governmental status prevents them from operating through mobilizing grassroots labor support or exerting their influence by empowering their grassroots branches. Thus, their legislative and other efforts have had a limited impact on the balance of power between labor and capital in the workplace.
Economic Hardship and Adaptation Among Asian American Families
Authors: Ishii-Kuntz Masako , Gomel Jessica N. , Tinsley Barbara J. , Parke Ross D.
Published: October 2009

Asian American families are often portrayed as affluent, having achieved a high level of education and occupational prestige. Despite this model-minority image, many Asian Americans suffer from economic hardship. Using a sample of 95 Asian Americans, this study examines the effect of perceived economic hardship on coping behavior, family relations, family roles, and psychological well-being among members of this understudied minority population. Findings indicate that family roles and psychological well-being of Asian Americans are directly influenced by their perception of economic distress. However, coping behaviors do not necessarily mediate these relationships. These findings are discussed in light of a conceptual model, and future directions for research are suggested.
A Review of the Molecular Mechanisms of Chemically Induced Neoplasia in Rat and Mouse Models in National Toxicology Program Bioassays and Their Relevance to Human Cancer
Authors: Hoenerhoff Mark J. , Hong Hue Hua , Ton Tai-vu , Lahousse Stephanie A. , Sills Robert C.
Published: October 2009

Tumor response in the B6C3F1 mouse, F344 rat, and other animal models following exposure to various compounds provides evidence that people exposed to these or similar compounds may be at risk for developing cancer. Although tumors in rodents and humans are often morphologically similar, underlying mechanisms of tumorigenesis are often unknown and may be different between the species. Therefore, the relevance of an animal tumor response to human health would be better determined if the molecular pathogenesis were understood. The underlying molecular mechanisms leading to carcinogenesis are complex and involve multiple genetic and epigenetic events and other factors. To address the molecular pathogenesis of environmental carcinogens, the authors examine rodent tumors (e.g., lung, colon, mammary gland, skin, brain, mesothelioma) for alterations in cancer genes and epigenetic events that are associated with human cancer. National Toxicology Program (NTP) studies have identified several genetic alterations in chemically induced rodent neoplasms that are important in human cancer. Identification of such alterations in rodent models of chemical carcinogenesis caused by exposure to environmental contaminants, occupational chemicals, and other compounds lends further support that they are of potential human health risk. These studies also emphasize the importance of molecular evaluation of chemically induced rodent tumors for providing greater public health significance for NTP evaluated compounds.
Effect of Accelerated Weightbearing after Matrix-Associated Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation on the Femoral Condyle on Radiographic and Clinical Outcome after 2 Years
Authors: Wondrasch Barbara , Zak Lukas , Welsch Götz H. , Marlovits Stefan
Published: October 2009

Background

There is no consensus about the optimal time for weightbearing activities after matrix-associated autologous chon-drocyte implantation (MACI) of the femoral condyle.

Hypothesis

A comprehensive protocol after MACI on the femoral condyle with accelerated weightbearing leads to a better functional and radiographic outcome compared with the same comprehensive protocol with delayed weightbearing.

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods

Thirty-one patients (22 male, 9 female) after MACI on the femoral condyle were randomly assigned to the accelerated weightbearing group (group A) or the delayed weightbearing group (group B). Aside from increase and time of full weightbearing, both groups adhered to the same rehabilitation protocol and exercises. Patients were assessed preoperatively and at 4, 12, 24, 52, and 104 weeks after surgery. Clinical evaluation was performed by determining the subjective form of the International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC), the Tegner activity scale, and the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Radiological outcome was evaluated by the MOCART score and the size and amount of bone marrow edema and effusion.

Results

In both groups, there were no differences with regard to the clinical outcome. For the radiological outcome, group A showed a higher prevalence of bone marrow edema after 6 months without correlation to the clinical outcome (P 5 .06-.1). However, after 104 weeks, there were no differences in the radiological outcome between group A and group B.

Conclusion

A rehabilitation protocol with accelerated weightbearing leads to good clinical and functional outcome after 2 years without jeopardizing the healing graft.
The treatment of patients with mycotoxin-induced disease
Authors: Rea William J , Pan Yaqin , Griffiths Bertie
Published: October 2009

Twenty-eight incapacitated individuals (average 43 years old, 7 males, 21 females, range 12-70) exposed to molds and mycotoxins were studied and treated with a protocol of cleaning up or changing their environment to be mold free. Injections of the optimum dose of antigens were given as part of the treatment protocol as was oral and intravenous (i.v.) antioxidants; heat depuration (sauna); physical therapy with massage and exercise under environmentally controlled conditions; oxygen therapy at 4-8 L/min for 2 hours with a special wood-grade cellophane reservoir and a glass oxygen container. Many patients were sensitive to plastics; therefore, exposures to these were kept to a minimum. Autogenous lymphocytic factor was given as an immune modulator. Of 28 patients, 27 did well and returned to work. One patient improved but did not return to work during the period of study.
An analysis of joint replacement in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Mourão AF , Amaral M. , Caetano-Lopes J. , Isenberg D.
Published: October 2009

A small but important group of patients in our lupus cohort has needed total joint replacement (TJR). Arthritis was identified in 94% of our lupus patients. We have determined how many of our patients needed TJR, explored the risk factors for this procedure in patients with SLE and reviewed the outcome for these patients. Records of the cohort of patients with SLE who have attended our lupus clinic at University College of London Hospital/Middlesex from 1978 to 2008 were reviewed and patients who underwent TJR were identified. We recorded demographic data, other major systemic manifestations of SLE, autoantibody profile, previous use of steroids, other major systemic illnesses, smoking and alcohol habits. Nineteen patients with SLE from our cohort of 500 were found to have at least one TJR. Avascular necrosis (AVN) or concomitant rheumatoid arthritis (RA) was present in the majority of these patients. In contrast, age at disease onset, the presence of anti-cardiolipin antibodies, Raynaud’s phenomenon and smoking habits were not found to be contributing factors for the need to replace joints. Four of our 19 patients (21.1%) had complications of the joint replacement: two of them had infections of the replaced joint, one had a large haematoma immediately after the surgery requiring surgical evacuation and the other had a deep vein thrombosis. None of the patients so far has required joint re-replacement. In conclusion, 4% of SLE patients in our cohort have one or more joints replaced, the majority because of AVN or RA. Lupus (2009) 18, 1298—1302.
Learning to be a Qualitative Management Researcher
Authors: Cassell Catherine , Bishop Victoria , Symon Gillian , Johnson Phil , Buehring Anna
Published: October 2009

Conducting management research underpins management learning and education—therefore how the management researcher or practitioner learns research skills is an important issue to be addressed. This paper focuses upon the skills, knowledge and practices required to conduct qualitative management research, and the learning processes that go into their development. A total of 45 in-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders in the field. From an analysis of the interview data, the types of skills and knowledge required for the production of good qualitative research were identified, and the learning processes and practices associated with those skills were critiqued. It is argued that the processes by which we learn to do qualitative research, and become effective qualitative researchers, involve both the learning of appropriate skills and knowledge and their use and conceptualization through three types of research practice: reflection, reflexivity and phronesis. The implications of the analysis for management learning are presented.
The Effects of School Garden Experiences on Middle School-Aged Students’ Knowledge, Attitudes, and Behaviors Associated With Vegetable Consumption
Authors: Ratcliffe Michelle M. , Merrigan Kathleen A. , Rogers Beatrice L. , Goldberg Jeanne P.
Published: October 2009

This study describes the effects of garden-based education on children’s vegetable consumption. As part of a pre—post panel study, 236 students complete the Garden Vegetable Frequency Questionnaire and 161 complete a taste test. Results indicate that school gardening may affect children’s vegetable consumption, including improved recognition of, attitudes toward, preferences for, and willingness to taste vegetables. Gardening also increases the variety of vegetables eaten. Future research should explore whether effects persist over time and if and how changes in children’s behavior affect the behavior of their caregivers. Implications of study findings for policy and practice are discussed. Suggestions for applying results to future health promotions are provided.
Managing the risk of comparing estimated breeding values across flocks or herds through connectedness: a review and application
Authors: Kuehn Larry A. , Lewis Ronald M. , Notter David R.
Published: October 2009

Comparing predicted breeding values (BV) among animals in different management units (e.g. flocks, herds) is challenging if units have different genetic means. Unbiased estimates of differences in BV may be obtained by assigning base animals to genetic groups according to their unit of origin, but units must be connected to estimate group effects. If many small groups exist, error of BV prediction may be increased. Alternatively, genetic groups can be excluded from the statistical model, which may bias BV predictions. If adequate genetic connections exist among units, bias is reduced. Several measures of connectedness have been proposed, but their relationships to potential bias in BV predictions are not well defined. This study compares alternative strategies to connect small units and assesses the ability of different connectedness statistics to quantify potential bias in BV prediction. Connections established using common sires across units were most effective in reducing bias. The coefficient of determination of the mean difference in predicted BV was a perfect indicator of potential bias remaining when comparing individuals in separate units. However, this measure is difficult to calculate; correlated measures such as prediction errors of differences in unit means and correlations among prediction errors are suggested as practical alternatives.
Local cell metrics: a novel method for analysis of cell-cell interactions
Authors: Su Jing , Zapata Pedro J , Chen Chien-Chiang , Meredith J Carson
Published: October 2009

Background

The regulation of many cell functions is inherently linked to cell-cell contact interactions. However, effects of contact interactions among adherent cells can be difficult to detect with global summary statistics due to the localized nature and noise inherent to cell-cell interactions. The lack of informatics approaches specific for detecting cell-cell interactions is a limitation in the analysis of large sets of cell image data, including traditional and combinatorial or high-throughput studies. Here we introduce a novel histogram-based data analysis strategy, termed local cell metrics (LCMs), which addresses this shortcoming.

Results

The new LCM method is demonstrated via a study of contact inhibition of proliferation of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts. We describe how LCMs can be used to quantify the local environment of cells and how LCMs are decomposed mathematically into metrics specific to each cell type in a culture, e.g., differently-labelled cells in fluorescence imaging. Using this approach, a quantitative, probabilistic description of the contact inhibition effects in MC3T3-E1 cultures has been achieved. We also show how LCMs are related to the naïve Bayes model. Namely, LCMs are Bayes class-conditional probability functions, suggesting their use for data mining and classification.

Conclusion

LCMs are successful in robust detection of cell contact inhibition in situations where conventional global statistics fail to do so. The noise due to the random features of cell behavior was suppressed significantly as a result of the focus on local distances, providing sensitive detection of cell-cell contact effects. The methodology can be extended to any quantifiable feature that can be obtained from imaging of cell cultures or tissue samples, including optical, fluorescent, and confocal microscopy. This approach may prove useful in interpreting culture and histological data in fields where cell-cell interactions play a critical role in determining cell fate, e.g., cancer, developmental biology, and tissue regeneration.
Novel association of APC with intermediate filaments identified using a new versatile APC antibody
Authors: Wang Yang , Azuma Yoshiaki , Friedman David B , Coffey Robert J , Neufeld Kristi L
Published: October 2009

Background

As a key player in suppression of colon tumorigenesis, Adenomatous Polyposis Coli (APC) has been widely studied to determine its cellular functions. However, inconsistencies of commercially available APC antibodies have limited the exploration of APC function. APC is implicated in spindle formation by direct interactions with tubulin and microtubule-binding protein EB1. APC also interacts with the actin cytoskeleton to regulate cell polarity. Until now, interaction of APC with the third cytoskeletal element, intermediate filaments, has remained unexamined.

Results

We generated an APC antibody (APC-M2 pAb) raised against the 15 amino acid repeat region, and verified its reliability in applications including immunoprecipitation, immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence in cultured cells and tissue. Utilizing this APC-M2 pAb, we immunoprecipitated endogenous APC and its binding proteins from colon epithelial cells expressing wild-type APC. Using Liquid Chromatography Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), we identified 42 proteins in complex with APC, including β-catenin and intermediate filament (IF) proteins lamin B1 and keratin 81. Association of lamin B1 with APC in cultured cells and human colonic tissue was verified by co-immunoprecipitation and colocalization. APC also colocalized with keratins and remained associated with IF proteins throughout a sequential extraction procedure.

Conclusion

We introduce a versatile APC antibody that is useful for cell/tissue immunostaining, immunoblotting and immunoprecipitation. We also present evidence for interactions between APC and IFs, independent of actin filaments and microtubules. Our results suggest that APC associates with all three major components of the cytoskeleton, thus expanding potential roles for APC in the regulation of cytoskeletal integrity.
Identification and analysis of serpin-family genes by homology and synteny across the 12 sequenced Drosophilid genomes
Authors: Garrett Matthew , Fullaondo Ane , Troxler Laurent , Micklem Gos , Gubb David
Published: October 2009

Background

The Drosophila melanogaster genome contains 29 serpin genes, 12 as single transcripts and 17 within 6 gene clusters. Many of these serpins have a conserved "hinge" motif characteristic of active proteinase inhibitors. However, a substantial proportion (42%) lacks this motif and represents non-inhibitory serpin-fold proteins of unknown function. Currently, it is not known whether orthologous, inhibitory serpin genes retain the same target proteinase specificity within the Drosophilid lineage, nor whether they give rise to non-inhibitory serpin-fold proteins or other, more diverged, proteins.

Results

We collated 188 orthologues to the D. melanogaster serpins from the other 11 Drosophilid genomes and used synteny to find further family members, raising the total to 226, or 71% of the number of orthologues expected assuming complete conservation across all 12 Drosophilid species. In general the sequence constraints on the serpin-fold itself are loose. The critical Reactive Centre Loop (RCL) sequence, including the target proteinase cleavage site, is strongly conserved in inhibitory serpins, although there are 3 exceptional sets of orthologues in which the evolutionary constraints are looser. Conversely, the RCL of non-inhibitory serpin orthologues is less conserved, with 3 exceptions that presumably bind to conserved partner molecules. We derive a consensus hinge motif, for Drosophilid inhibitory serpins, which differs somewhat from that of the vertebrate consensus. Three gene clusters appear to have originated in the melanogaster subgroup, Spn28D, Spn77B and Spn88E, each containing one inhibitory serpin orthologue that is present in all Drosophilids. In addition, the Spn100A transcript appears to represent a novel serpin-derived fold.

Conclusion

In general, inhibitory serpins rarely change their range of proteinase targets, except by a duplication/divergence mechanism. Non-inhibitory serpins appear to derive from inhibitory serpins, but not the reverse. The conservation of different family members varied widely across the 12 sequenced Drosophilid genomes. An approach considering synteny as well as homology was important to find the largest set of orthologues.
Time course and dose response of alpha tocopherol on oxidative stress in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Reed Ashleigh , Cho Yeoung Jee , Coombes Jeff S , Fassett Robert G
Published: October 2009

Background

Oxidative stress is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality particularly in patients with end stage kidney disease. Although observational data from the general population has shown dietary antioxidant intake is associated with reduced cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, most clinical intervention trials have failed to support this relationship. This may be a consequence of not using an effective antioxidant dose and/or not investigating patients with elevated oxidative stress. The SPACE study, conducted in haemodialysis patients, reported that 800 IU/day of alpha tocopherol significantly reduced cardiovascular disease endpoints. A recent time course and dose response study conducted in hypercholesterolaemic patients that found 1600 IU/day of alpha tocopherol was an optimal dose. There is no such dose response data available for haemodialysis patients. Therefore the aim of this study is to investigate the effect of different doses of oral alpha tocopherol on oxidative stress in haemodialysis patients with elevated oxidative stress and the time taken to achieve this effect.

Methods

The study will consist of a time-course followed by a dose response study. In the time course study 20 haemodialysis patients with elevated oxidative stress will take either 1600 IU/day natural (RRR) alpha tocopherol for 20 weeks or placebo. Blood will be collected every two weeks and analysed for a marker of oxidative stress (plasma F2-isoprostanes) and alpha tocopherol. The optimum time period to significantly decrease plasma F2-isoprostanes will be determined from this study. In the dose response study 60 patients will be randomised to receive either placebo, 100, 200, 400, 800 or 1600 IU/day of natural (RRR) alpha tocopherol for a time period determined from the time course study. Blood will be collected at baseline and every two weeks and analysed for plasma F2-isoprostanes and alpha tocopherol. It is hypothesised that doses ≥ 800 IU of vitamin E will be required to significantly decrease plasma F2-isoprostanes.

Discussion

This study will determine the time and dose required for alpha tocopherol to significantly decrease oxidative stress in haemodialysis patients. Data will be used to plan a large randomised controlled trial to assess the effects of alpha tocopherol on cardiovascular outcomes in haemodialysis patients.

Trial Registration

ACTRN12609000608268
Estrogen treatment following severe burn injury reduces brain inflammation and apoptotic signaling
Authors: Gatson Joshua W , Maass David L , Simpkins James W , Idris Ahamed H , Minei Joseph P , Wigginton Jane G
Published: October 2009

Background

Patients with severe burn injury experience a rapid elevation in multiple circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, with the levels correlating with both injury severity and outcome. Accumulations of these cytokines in animal models have been observed in remote organs, however data are lacking regarding early brain cytokine levels following burn injury, and the effects of estradiol on these levels. Using an experimental animal model, we studied the acute effects of a full-thickness third degree burn on brain levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and the protective effects of acute estrogen treatment on these levels. Additionally, the acute administration of estrogen on regulation of inflammatory and apoptotic events in the brain following severe burn injury were studied through measuring the levels of phospho-ERK, phospho-Akt, active caspase-3, and PARP cleavage in the placebo and estrogen treated groups.

Methods

In this study, 149 adult Sprague-Dawley male rats received 3rd degree 40% total body surface area (TBSA) burns. Fifteen minutes following burn injury, the animals received a subcutaneous injection of either placebo (n = 72) or 17 beta-estradiol (n = 72). Brains were harvested at 0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 12, 18, and 24 hours after injury from the control (n = 5), placebo (n = 8/time point), and estrogen treated animals (n = 8/time point). The brain cytokine levels were measured using the ELISA method. In addition, we assessed the levels of phosphorylated-ERK, phosphorylated-Akt, active caspase-3, and the levels of cleaved PARP at the 24 hour time-point using Western blot analysis.

Results

In burned rats, 17 beta-estradiol significantly decreased the levels of brain tissue TNF-α (~25%), IL-1β (~60%), and IL-6 (~90%) when compared to the placebo group. In addition, we determined that in the estrogen-treated rats there was an increase in the levels of phospho-ERK (p< 0.01) and Akt (p< 0.05) at the 24 hour time-point, and that 17 beta-estradiol blocked the activation of caspase-3 (p< 0.01) and subsequent cleavage of PARP (p< 0.05).

Conclusion

Following severe burn injury, estrogens decrease both brain inflammation and the activation of apoptosis, represented by an increase in the levels of phospho-Akt and inhibition of caspase-3 activation and PARP cleavage. Results from these studies will help further our understanding of how estrogens protect the brain following burn injury, and may provide a novel, safe, and effective clinical treatment to combat remote secondary burn injury in the brain and to preserve cognition.
Double major papilla of Vater - a rare endoscopic finding during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a case report
Authors: Katsinelos Panagiotis , Chatzimavroudis Grigoris , Fasoulas Kostas , Katsinelos Taxiarchis , Pilpilidis Ioannis , Lazaraki Georgia , Terzoudis Sotiris , Kokonis George , Patsis Ioannis , Zavos Christos , Kountouras Jannis
Published: October 2009

Background

A double major papilla of Vater is a rare congenital anomaly with only three documented cases described in the literature.

Case report

We report the case of a 19-year-old man, with chronic ulcerative pancolitis and congenital sphrerocytosis, who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography because he had persistent elevation of liver enzymes and normal MRI cholangiography. During endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, a double papilla of Vater with separate drainage for the bile duct and the pancreatic duct was observed.

Conclusion

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography showed normal pancreatogram and findings compatible with sclerosing cholangitis.
Pivotal Advance: Pharmacological manipulation of inflammation resolution during spontaneously resolving tissue neutrophilia in the zebrafish
Authors: Loynes Catherine A , Martin Jane S , Robertson Anne , Trushell Daniel M I , Ingham Philip W , Whyte Moira K B , Renshaw Stephen A
Published: October 2009

The resolution of neutrophilic inflammation in the zebrafish can be visualized in vivo and manipulated by a range of pharmacological mediators, demonstrating a role for neutrophil apoptosis in this process.

Zebrafish are a unique model for pharmacological manipulation of physiological processes such as inflammation; they are small and permeable to many small molecular compounds, and being transparent, they permit the visualization and quantitation of the inflammatory response by observation of transgenically labeled inflammatory cell populations. Using a transgenic line specifically labeling neutrophils in vivo (mpx:GFP), we studied the effects of a range of pharmacological agents on the resolution of inflammation in vivo. These agents were selected for their ability to modulate neutrophil function and lifespan in human neutrophils in vitro. Agents delaying neutrophil apoptosis (LPS, dbcAMP, and several caspase inhibitors) all lead to a delay in resolution of neutrophilic inflammation. Reciprocally, pyocyanin and roscovitine (inducers of neutrophil apoptosis) lead to reduced neutrophil numbers. The occurrence of apoptosis was observed by time-lapse analysis and confirmed by dual staining for neutrophil-specific mpx activity (TSA staining) and an apoptotic marker (TUNEL). During inflammation, macrophages follow neutrophils into the inflamed site, and TUNEL/TSA dual-positive material can be demonstrated within macrophages, consistent with their uptake of apoptotic neutrophils. This model has several advantages over mammalian models and lends itself to the study of pharmaceutical agents modulating inflammation.
LIM homeodomain transcription factor-dependent specification of bipotential MGE progenitors into cholinergic and GABAergic striatal interneurons
Authors: Fragkouli Apostolia , van Wijk Nicole Verhey , Lopes Rita , Kessaris Nicoletta , Pachnis Vassilis
Published: October 2009

Coordination of voluntary motor activity depends on the generation of the appropriate neuronal subtypes in the basal ganglia and their integration into functional neuronal circuits. The largest nucleus of the basal ganglia, the striatum, contains two classes of neurons: the principal population of medium-sized dense spiny neurons (MSNs; 97-98% of all striatal neurons in rodents), which project to the globus pallidus and the substantia nigra, and the locally projecting striatal interneurons (SINs; 2-3% in rodents). SINs are further subdivided into two non-overlapping groups: those producing acetylcholine (cholinergic) and those producing γ-amino butyric acid(GABAergic). Despite the pivotal role of SINs in integrating the output of striatal circuits and the function of neuronal networks in the ventral forebrain, the lineage relationship of SIN subtypes and the molecular mechanisms that control their differentiation are currently unclear. Using genetic fate mapping, we demonstrate here that the majority of cholinergic and GABAergic SINs are derived from common precursors generated in the medial ganglionic eminence during embryogenesis. These precursors express the LIM homeodomain protein Lhx6 and have characteristics of proto-GABAergic neurons. By combining gene expression analysis with loss-of-function and misexpression experiments, we provide evidence that the differentiation of the common precursor into mature SIN subtypes is regulated by the combinatorial activity of the LIM homeodomain proteins Lhx6, Lhx7 (Lhx8) and Isl1. These studies suggest that a LIM homeodomain transcriptional code confers cell-fate specification and neurotransmitter identity in neuronal subpopulations of the ventral forebrain.
The entire zebrafish blastula-gastrula margin acts as an organizer dependent on the ratio of Nodal to BMP activity
Authors: Fauny Jean-Daniel , Thisse Bernard , Thisse Christine
Published: October 2009

Formation of the vertebrate embryo is known to depend on the activity of organizing centers. The dorsal Spemann organizer is the source of growth factor antagonists that participate in the creation of signaling gradients. In various species, the existence of head, trunk and trunk-tail inducers has been proposed to explain the formation of different parts of the embryo along the anteroposterior (A/P) axis. In zebrafish, two organizing centers have been described, the dorsal and tail organizers, located at the dorsal and ventral gastrula margins, respectively. Here, we report that organizer functions are executed not only by the dorsal and ventral margins, but also by all parts of the blastula-gastrula margin. The position of different marginal territories along the dorsoventral axis defines the A/P nature of the structures they are able to organize. At the molecular level, we show that this organizing activity results from the simultaneous activation of BMP and Nodal signaling pathways. Furthermore, the A/P character of the organized structures is not defined by absolute levels but instead by the ratio of BMP and Nodal activities. Rather than resulting from the activity of discrete centers,organization of the zebrafish embryo depends on the activity of the entire margin acting as a continuous and global organizer that is established by a gradual ventral-to-dorsal modulation of the ratio of marginal BMP to Nodal activity.
How does the central nervous system address the kinetic redundancy in the lumbar spine? Three-dimensional isometric exertions with 18 Hill-model-based muscle fascicles at the L4—L5 level
Authors: Rashedi E , Khalaf K , Nassajian M Reza , Nasseroleslami B , Parnianpour M
Published: October 2009

The human motor system is organized for execution of various motor tasks in a different and flexible manner. The kinetic redundancy in the human musculoskeletal system is a significant property by which the central nervous system achieves many complementary goals. An equilibrium-based biomechanical model of isometric three-dimensional exertions of trunk muscles has been developed. Following the definition and role of the uncontrolled manifold, the kinetic redundancy concept is explored in mathematical terms. The null space of the kinetically redundant system when a certain joint moment and/or stiffness are needed is derived and discussed. The aforementioned concepts have been illustrated, using a three-dimensional three-degrees-of-freedom biomechanical model of the spine with 18 anatomically oriented Hill-type-model muscle fascicles. The considerations of stability and its consequence on the internal loading of the spine and coactivation consequences are discussed in both general and specific cases. The results can shed light on the interaction mechanisms in muscle activation patterns seen in various tasks and exertions and can provide a significant understanding for future research studies and clinical practices related to low-back disorders. Alteration of recruitment patterns in low-back-pain patients has been explained on the basis of this biomechanical analysis. The higher coactivation results in higher internal loading while providing higher joint stiffness that enhances spinal stability, which guards against spinal deformation in the presence of any perturbations.
Macroprolactin on the Advia Centaur: experience with 409 patients over a three-year period
Authors: Jassam N F , Paterson A , Lippiatt C , Barth J H
Published: October 2009

Introduction

Macroprolactin (MPRL) is an important source of interference that may lead to misdiagnosis and mismanagement of hyperprolactinaemic patients. Prolactin assays exhibit considerable variation in the detection of MPRL. In this study, we examine the requirement for polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation in the analysis of hyperprolactinaemia detected by the Advia Centaur as it has a relatively low reactivity with MPRL.

Methods

Four hundreds and sixty-four hyperprolactinaemic samples were collected from the laboratory information system for Saint James University Hospital over a three-year period. These samples were screened for MPRL using PEG precipitation protocol. Monomeric prolactin concentration post-PEG precipitation was compared with a reference range determined by PEG precipitation in normal subjects.

Results

MPRL was the cause of hyperprolactinaemia in 4% of patients (16/409) over the three-year period studied. Nine subjects with MPRL also had elevated monomeric prolactin.

Conclusions

PEG screening is still needed for assays with low MPRL reactivity such as the Advia Centaur and this should be performed with a locally derived reference range for monomeric prolactin.
The Development of the UK Coaching Certificate for Golf
Authors: Phillpots Kyle
Published: October 2009

Golf instruction within the United Kingdom of Great Britain and reland has traditionally been delivered by PGA Professionals. However, the desire of governments for sports to address a wider social agenda has led to an overhaul of the coaching and coach education driven by the recommendations of a Coaching Task Force. The development of a five-level structure for coaching and a formalized and standardised coach education programme known as the United Kingdom Coaching Certificate (UKCC) was the result of these recommendations. Within golf, this development was led by the PGA of Great Britain and Ireland in partnership with the other governing bodies from the amateur game. The background to the UKCC, the macro- and meso-political issues and the solutions adopted by golf are discussed within this paper
Body Segment Sequencing and Timing in Golf
Authors: Neal Robert , Lumsden Ryan , Holland Mark , Mason Bruce
Published: October 2009

Hitting great golf shots requires, in coaching terms, exquisite “timing” Despite this criterion, few people have tried to quantify this phenomenon and distinguish between well-timed (WT) and mistimed (MT) shots. The purpose of this paper was to present a way of describing the timing in the golf downswing and investigate whether biomechanical variables could be used to evaluate the sequencing of movement during the swing. Three-dimensional kinematics for a five segment model of the body and shot distance and lateral error were collected as highly skilled players hit approximately 20 driver shots. Players rated each shot as being WT or MT. A method of describing sequencing was presented and average values for the body segment speeds were presented. Comparisons of the timing lags (i.e., the times between peak angular speeds of contiguous body segments) showed no significant differences between the WT and MT shots. It seems as though golfers are much more sensitive to the “centredness” of contact than they are to subtle differences in the timing of peak body segment speeds.
Do conformational biases of simple helical junctions influence RNA folding stability and specificity?
Authors: Chu Vincent B. , Lipfert Jan , Bai Yu , Pande Vijay S. , Doniach Sebastian , Herschlag Daniel
Published: October 2009

Structured RNAs must fold into their native structures and discriminate against a large number of alternative ones, an especially difficult task given the limited information content of RNA's nucleotide alphabet. The simplest motifs within structured RNAs are two helices joined by nonhelical junctions. To uncover the fundamental behavior of these motifs and to elucidate the underlying physical forces and challenges faced by structured RNAs, we computationally and experimentally studied a tethered duplex model system composed of two helices joined by flexible single- or double-stranded polyethylene glycol tethers, whose lengths correspond to those typically observed in junctions from structured RNAs. To dissect the thermodynamic properties of these simple motifs, we computationally probed how junction topology, electrostatics, and tertiary contact location influenced folding stability. Small-angle X-ray scattering was used to assess our predictions. Single- or double-stranded junctions, independent of sequence, greatly reduce the space of allowed helical conformations and influencing the preferred location and orientation of their adjoining helices. A double-stranded junction guides the helices along a hinge-like pathway. In contrast, a single-stranded junction samples a broader set of conformations and has different preferences than the double-stranded junction. In turn, these preferences determine the stability and distinct specificities of tertiary structure formation. These sequence-independent effects suggest that properties as simple as a junction's topology can generally define the accessible conformational space, thereby stabilizing desired structures and assisting in discriminating against misfolded structures. Thus, junction topology provides a fundamental strategy for transcending the limitations imposed by the low information content of RNA primary sequence.
Fifty Years of Vehicle Routing
Authors: Laporte Gilbert
Published: October 2009

The Vehicle Routing Problem (VRP) was introduced 50 years ago by Dantzig and Ramser under the title “The Truck Dispatching Problem.” The study of the VRP has given rise to major developments in the fields of exact algorithms and heuristics. In particular, highly sophisticated exact mathematical programming decomposition algorithms and powerful metaheuristics for the VRP have been put forward in recent years. The purpose of this article is to provide a brief account of this development.
Hepatic Lipid Composition and Stearoyl-Coenzyme A Desaturase 1 mRNA Expression Can Be Estimated from Plasma VLDL Fatty Acid Ratios
Authors: Peter Andreas , Cegan Alexander , Wagner Silvia , Lehmann Rainer , Stefan Norbert , Königsrainer Alfred , Königsrainer Ingmar , Häring Hans-Ulrich , Schleicher Erwin
Published: October 2009

Background: Stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase 1 (SCD1) catalyzes the limiting step of monounsaturated fatty acid synthesis in humans and is an important player in triglyceride generation. SCD1 has been repeatedly implicated in the pathogenesis of metabolic and inflammatory diseases. Therefore it is of great importance to determine SCD1 activity in human samples. In this study we aimed to evaluate a hepatic SCD1 activity index derived from plasma VLDL triglyceride composition as a tool to estimate hepatic SCD1 expression in humans. Additionally, we further evaluated commonly used fatty acid ratios [elongase, de novo lipogenesis, and Δ5 and Δ6 desaturase] in plasma VLDL and hepatic lipid fractions.

Design and methods: Liver biopsies and plasma samples were simultaneously collected from 15 individuals. Plasma VLDL was obtained by ultracentrifugation. Hepatic and plasma VLDL lipids were fractionated by thin-layer chromatography, and the fatty acid composition of each fraction was analyzed by gas chromatography. Hepatic SCD1 expression was determined by real-time PCR.

Results: Hepatic SCD1 mRNA expression was associated with the product/precursor ratios (16:1/16:0 and 18:1/18:0) of hepatic lipid fractions. The 16:1/16:0 ratio in hepatic and VLDL triglycerides as well as the 18:1/18:0 ratio in plasma VLDL were closely associated with hepatic SCD1 expression. The hepatic de novo lipogenesis index from triglycerides was associated with expression of lipogenic genes [fatty acid synthase (FASN), acetyl-Coenzyme A carboxylase alpha (ACACA), and sterol regulatory element binding transcription factor 1 (SREBP-1)] and is closely reflected by the de novo lipogenesis index in VLDL triglycerides.

Conclusion: We demonstrated for the first time that hepatic SCD1 expression can be estimated noninvasively from routine blood samples by measuring the SCD1 activity index in fasting plasma VLDL.