bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanding the Role of Marketing: From Customer Equity to Market Capitalization
Authors: Kumar V. , Shah Denish
Published: October 2009

Can a marketer drive the stock price of the firm? Yes, it should be possible. Toward this endeavor, the authors develop a framework to link customer equity (CE) (as determined by the customer lifetime value metric) to market capitalization (MC) (as determined by the stock price of the firm). The authors test the framework in an empirical field experiment with two Fortune 1000 firms in the business-to-business and business-to-consumer contexts, respectively. The findings show that (1) a CE-based framework can reliably predict the MC of the firm and (2) marketing strategies directed at increasing the CE not only increase the stock price of the firm but also beat market expectations. Furthermore, the results indicate that the relationship between CE and MC is moderated by risk factors in the form of volatility and vulnerability of cash flows from customers. By accounting for these factors, the authors improve the association between CE and MC. The findings broaden the scope and role of marketing while reinforcing the importance of the marketer to any organization.
Valuing Branded Businesses
Authors: Mizik Natalie , Jacobson Robert
Published: October 2009

The authors develop and validate a conditional multiplier approach for valuing branded businesses. The approach enhances traditional multiplier-based valuation by explicitly incorporating brand characteristics into the model. The authors present theoretical arguments why, develop a model to demonstrate how, and provide an empirical illustration to show that brand assets are not fully reflected in contemporaneous margins, and therefore valuation accuracy can be improved by incorporating information about the properties of the firm's brand asset directly into a valuation framework. The authors find that brand metrics have statistically significant associations with valuation multipliers and add incremental explanatory power to accounting variables in explaining valuation multipliers. Out-of-sample analysis shows a 16% improvement in the mean absolute error for predictions that take into account brand metrics compared with predictions based on accounting variables alone.
Evaluating the Financial Impact of Branding Using Trademarks: A Framework and Empirical Evidence
Authors: Krasnikov Alexander , Mishra Saurabh , Orozco David
Published: October 2009

Firms spend considerable efforts to build brand awareness and associations among consumers. Yet there is a limited understanding of the financial returns of such investments. In this article, the authors present a framework that uses trademarks as measures of firms' branding efforts. They classify trademarks into two categories—brand-identification trademarks and brand-association trademarks—and propose that they are indicators of firm efforts to build brand awareness and associations among consumers, respectively. The authors then evaluate the chain of effects linking such assets with metrics of firms' financial value. A longitudinal analysis of data collected from secondary sources reveals that the stock (i.e., total number) of brand-association trademarks available to firms in time period t increases their cash flow, Tobin's q, return on assets, and stock returns and reduces their cash-flow variability in period t + 1. Furthermore, the authors observe that the stock of brand-identification trademarks owned by firms in period t − 1 influences the effects of brand-association trademarks on cash flow, Tobin's q, and stock returns. Together, these findings provide useful insights into the financial value of branding.
The Debate over Doing Good: Corporate Social Performance, Strategic Marketing Levers, and Firm-Idiosyncratic Risk
Authors: Luo Xueming , Bhattacharya C.B.
Published: October 2009

Marketers and investors face a heated, provocative debate over whether excelling in social responsibility initiatives hurts or benefits firms financially. This study develops a theoretical framework that predicts (1) the impact of corporate social performance (CSP) on firm-idiosyncratic risk and (2) the role of two strategic marketing levers, advertising and research and development (R&D), in explaining the variability of this impact among different firms. The results show that higher CSP lowers undesirable firm-idiosyncratic risk. Notably, although the salutary impact of CSP is greater in firms with higher (versus lower) advertising, a simultaneous pursuit for CSP, advertising, and R&D is harmful with increased firm-idiosyncratic risk. For theory, the authors advance the literature on the marketing–finance interface by drawing attention to the risk-reduction potential of CSP and by shedding new light on some critical but neglected roles of strategic marketing levers. They also extend CSP research by moving away from the long-fought battle for a universal CSP impact and toward a finer-grained understanding of when some firms derive more risk-reduction benefits from CSP. For practice, the results indicate that the “goodwill refund” of CSP is not unconditional. They also empower marketers to communicate more effectively with investors (i.e., doing good to better manage the risk surrounding firm stock prices).
Identification and characterisation of a novel GHR defect disrupting the polypyrimidine tract and resulting in GH insensitivity
Authors: David A , Miraki-Moud F , Shaw N J , Savage M O , Clark A J L , Metherell L A
Published: October 2009

Objective

GH insensitivity (GHI) is caused in the majority of cases by impaired function of the GH receptor (GHR). All but one knownGHRmutation are in the coding sequence or the exon/intron boundaries. We identified and characterised the first intronic defect occurring in the polypyrimidine tract of theGHRin a patient with severe GHI.

Design

We investigated the effect of the novel defect on mRNA splicing using anin vitrosplicing assay and a cell transfection system.

Methods

GHRwas analysed by direct sequencing. To assess the effect of the novel defect, two heterologous minigenes (wild-type and mutant L1-GHR8-L2) were generated by insertingGHRexon 8 and its flanking wild-type or mutant intronic sequences into a well-characterised splicing reporter (Adml-par L1–L2).32P-labelled pre-mRNA was generated from the two constructs and incubated in HeLa nuclear extracts or HEK293 cells.

Results

Sequencing of theGHRrevealed a novel homozygous defect in the polypyrimidine tract of intron 7 (IVS7-6T>A). This base change does not involve the highly conserved splice site sequences, and is not predictedin silicoto affect GHR mRNA splicing. Nevertheless, skipping of exon 8 from the mutant L1-GHR8-L2 mRNA was clearly demonstrated in thein vitrosplicing assay and in transfected HEK293 cells.

Conclusion

Disruption of theGHRpolypyrimidine tract causes aberrant mRNA splicing leading to a mutant GHR protein. This is predicted to lack its transmembrane and intracellular domains and, thus, be incapable of transducing a GH signal.
Locally produced relaxin may affect testis and vas deferens function in rats
Authors: Cardoso Lais Cavalca , Nascimento Aline Rosa , Royer Carine , Porto Catarina Segreti , Lazari Maria Fatima Magalhaes
Published: October 2009

We have previously shown that the rat testis and vas deferens contain high levels of the relaxin receptor, RXFP1. The present study was undertaken to determine the expression of relaxin in these tissues, and the effect of exogenous relaxin on Sertoli cell proliferation and on the mRNA levels of some proteins that may contribute to epithelial secretion and tissue reorganization in the vas deferens. Relaxin mRNA levels in testis and vas deferens were much lower than in the prostate. Sertoli cells seem to be an important source of relaxin mRNA in testis. Relaxin immunoreactivity was detected in the seminiferous epithelium but not in the interstitial compartment. The relaxin precursor was expressed in the vas deferens, and relaxin immunoreactivity was detected in apical cells of the vas deferens. Castration, but not treatment with the anti-estrogen ICI 182,780, dramatically reduced relaxin mRNA levels in the prostate and vas deferens, and this effect was prevented by testosterone.Rxfp1mRNA levels in the vas deferens and prostate were not affected by castration or treatment with ICI 182,780. Exogenous relaxin increased the incorporation of3H-thymidine in cultured Sertoli cells, and treatment of the vas deferens with 100 ng/ml relaxin increased the mRNA levels for the cystic fibrosis chloride channel (cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator) about three times, and doubled mRNA levels for the inducible form of nitric oxide synthase and metalloproteinase 7. These results suggest that locally produced relaxin acts as an autocrine or paracrine agent in the testis and vas deferens to affect spermatogenesis and seminal fluid composition.
Aquaporin AQP11 in the testis: molecular identity and association with the processing of residual cytoplasm of elongated spermatids
Authors: Yeung C H , Cooper T G
Published: October 2009

AQP11 is one of the latest aquaporin (AQP) family members found, which differs from the other AQPs by its intracellular localisation and unusual water pore nucleotides with unclear function. Despite the highest mRNA expression among organs having been reported in the testis, the testicular molecule has not been studied in detail. Immunohistochemistry of rat adult testis localised AQP11 to the elongated spermatids (ES) and no other cell types except residual bodies inside Sertoli cells. It was absent from early ES at least until stage 13, and after a first diffuse appearance in the caudal cytoplasm became concentrated in intracellular organelles by stage 17, was strongest in vesicles in the anterior cytoplasm at the final ES stages and appeared in residual bodies. Staining was detected on the distal quarter of the sperm tail only immediately before spermiation. A similar localisation was found in the mouse and developmental profiles for both the open reading frame mRNA and protein expression in 8–50 dpp testis pinpointed its first appearance coinciding with late stage ES. Sequencing of PCR products of testicularAqp11containing the open reading frames confirmed a full match with GenBank databases for rat, mouse and human. Western blotting revealed two or more molecular forms with the 26/27 kDa species dominating in the rat/mouse testis and the 33/34 kDa form selectively allocated to the spermatozoa. In view of intracellular vacuolation leading to polycystic kidney inAqp11-null mice, a possible role of testicular AQP11 in the recycling of surplus cytoplasmic components of the ES and sustaining Sertoli cell capacity in the support of spermatogenesis was discussed.
Experiences with cardial troponin assessments
Authors: Hadarits Ferenc , Iván Andrea , Márkus Csaba , Nagy Lajos
Published: October 2009

A 2000-ben megjelent nemzetközi kardiológiai ajánlások óta a kardiális troponinok szerepe vált elsődlegessé az akut coronariaszindróma enzimdiagnosztikájában. Kórházunkban 2006-tól diagnosztikus és terápiás beavatkozásokat is végző hemodinamikai részleg kezdett dolgozni. 2007. július 1-jétől úgynevezett egykapus betegbeléptető rendszer, sürgősségi betegellátó egység működik.
Cél:
Részletesen elemezni a fenti egységek működése óta jelentősen megnövekedett, az akut coronariaszindróma diagnosztikájában használt laboratóriumi kardiális troponin méréseket; azok indokoltságát, jelentőségét, hasznosságát illetően, kitérve az álpozitivitás lehetséges okaira.
Módszer:
A 2008 második fél évében végzett kardiális troponin vizsgálatokat elemeztük együttesen, mind laboratóriumi, mind klinikai szempontból.
Eredmények:
A vizsgált periódus alatt 1787 betegnél 2656 kardiális troponin mérés történt. Pozitív érték 203 páciensnél 280 adódott, amelyek coronariabetegséget 110 betegnél igazoltak. Gyakorlatilag az összes többi esetben is lehetett klinikai okot találni a pozitív eredmény mögött, csupán egyetlen betegnél nem sikerült semmilyen klinikai eltéréssel magyarázni az emelkedett troponinértéket.
Következtetések:
A rendkívül alacsony számú pozitív eredmény megkérdőjelezi a vizsgálatkérések megalapozottságát, gondosságát. A klinikusi gondolkozásban el kell mélyíteni a tényt, miszerint pozitív kardiális troponin eredmény jelentős számban előfordulhat nem coronariabetegségben is. Az utóbbi eseteknek részletesebb, klinikus és laboratóriumi szakember általi, konzultatív elemzésével meg kell próbálni az ilyen értelmű álpozitivitás okait felderíteni.
Investigation of adolescents’ bone metabolism in the western part of Transdanubia
Authors: Csákváry Violetta , Puskás Tamás , Bödecs Tamás , Lőcsei Zoltán , Oroszlán György , Kovács L. Gábor , Salamonné Toldy Erzsébet
Published: October 2009

Az életkorra lebontott gyermekkori referenciatartományok nem állnak hazánkban rendelkezésre, ezért a gyermekkori csontanyagcsere-zavarok felismerése és helyes kezelése nem mindig lehetséges. Jelen tanulmány célja, hogy adatokkal szolgáljon a serdülők csontdenzitási és csontmarkereinek eredményeiről.
Anyag és módszer:
169 (98 leány, 71 fiú) egészséges fiatal (átlagéletkoruk: 17,0±1,2 év) csontanyagcsere-vizsgálatát végezték el. Denzitometriával (DEXA, LUNAR, GE Health Care, Amerikai Egyesült Államok) mérték a lumbalis csigolyacsontok ásványianyag-tartalmát (BMC) és sűrűségét (BMD), majd ezekből eltérő referenciacsoportok figyelembevételével különböző Z-score-értékeket származtattak. A szérumosteocalcin- (OC) és β-crosslaps- (β-CL) meghatározást teljesen automatizált elektrokemilumineszcens immunometrikus módszerrel (Elecsys-2010, Roche) végezték. Eredményeiket a nemek szerinti csoportosításban a Tanner-stádiumok figyelembevételével értékelték. Vizsgálták a testtömegindex (BMI), a napi kalciumbevitel, szénsavas üdítő-kóla fogyasztás és testmozgási szokások közötti összefüggéseket.
Eredmények:
A Tanner V. fiúk BMC-értékei mindkét korcsoportban szignifikánsan (p < 0,001) magasabbak (15–16 év: 62,9±14,3 g; 17–19 év: 69,8±9,3 g), mint a lányoké (58,1±10,4; 61,6±8,5 g). A BMD-értékek a lányok esetében voltak szignifikánsan (p < 0,05) magasabbak a fiúkhoz képest (1,17±0,12 g/cm
2
vs. 1,13±0,11 g/cm
2
). Az OC- és β-CL-szintek mindkét nemben az életkor növekedésével szignifikánsan (p < 0,01) csökkentek. A fiúk OC- és β-CL-szintjei jelentősen (p < 0,001) magasabbak a lányok értékeihez képest. A testsúly növekedésével a BMC és BMD mindkét nemben szignifikáns (p < 0,05) emelkedést mutat, viszont a sovány lányok biomarkerszintje (p < 0,05) magasabb a túlsúlyos társaikhoz képest. A német standardhoz és a saját populációjukhoz viszonyított Z-score-BMD-értékek között kiváló korrelációt (lányok: r = 0,97; fiúk: r = 0,88) kaptak, de az abszolút értékek szignifikánsan (p < 0,05) eltértek egymástól. A fiatalok 80%-a kalciumszegényen táplálkozik, 38%-uk keveset sportol, 60%-uk rendszeresen fogyaszt szénsavas üdítőt, illetve kólát. Az elégtelen kalciumbevitel esetén 4,7%-ban (6/127) csökkent ásványianyag-tartalmat igazoltak a német standardhoz és a saját referenciához viszonyított Z-score-értékeik alapján is, míg az elégséges kalciumot fogyasztók között ilyen eset nem fordult elő.
Következtetés:
Adataik hozzájárulhatnak a referenciaértékek meghatározásához az egészséges gimnazisták körében. A csontmarkerek hazai standardjának a beállításához szélesebb populációra kiterjedő vizsgálatok szükségesek még.
Trichotillomania
Authors: Telegdy Enikő
Published: October 2009

A trichotillomania jelentőségét nem lehet alábecsülni. Komoly szociológiai és pszichológiai okok állhatnak a háttérben, mint például erős érzelmi válság a megszégyenülés és megalázottság miatt, elhárító magatartás akár az orvosi kezelésre vonatkozóan, ami az életminőség jelentős hanyatlásához vezethet. Ez nemcsak az adott beteget, hanem családját és a környezetében élőket is jelentősen érinti. A család bevonása nagyon jelentős az okok feltárásában és magában a terápiában is. Gyakran erőszakos cselekedetek fordulnak elő a háttérben, társulhatnak súlyosabb pszichiátriai kórképekkel, mint mentális retardáció, schizophrenia, autizmus, drogfüggőség. A kezelésbe pszichológus vagy pszichiáter bevonása szükséges.
The value of twenty-four hour intraoesophageal pH monitoring and manometry in the management of patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms
Authors: Lakner Lilla , Döbrönte Zoltán
Published: October 2009

A funkcionális gasztroenterológiai vizsgálatok (intraoesophagealis pH-mérés, nyelőcső-manometria, szcintigráfia, impedanciavizsgálat) egyre inkább nélkülözhetetlenek az endoszkóposan negatív felső gastrointestinalis panaszokkal rendelkező betegek diagnosztikájában és adekvát kezelésében.Betegek és módszer:Munkánkban négy olyan típusos esetet ismertetünk, amikor e vizsgálatok segítségével sikerült a korrekt diagnózist felállítani, és ennek alapján a megfelelő terápiás stratégiát kialakítani. Közülük két fiatal beteg gastrooesophagealis reflux tünetegyüttes miatt, két beteg pedig nyelési panaszok miatt került vizsgálatokra. Az intraoesophagealis pH-mérést Zinetics többször használatos, 24 órás intraoesophagealis egy-, illetve kétcsatornás katéterrel, a nyelőcső-manometriát Zinetics négycsatornás EMC-katéterrel, folyadékperfúziós módszerrel végeztük.Esetismertetések:Refluxtünetekkel rendelkező betegeink közül egyiküknél alsó oesophagussphincter-inkompetencia talaján kialakult 24 órás pH-méréssel igazolt kóros gastrooesophagealis savas refluxot észleltünk hiatus hernia és megtartott nyelőcső-perisztaltika mellett az oesophagealis és extraoesophagealis tünetek hátterében. Mivel teljes panaszmentessége protonpumpagátló kezeléssel sem volt biztosítható, antirefluxműtétet indikáltunk. Másik betegünknél normális oesophagus-pH-mérési és a manometriás eredmény alapján hiperszenzitív oesophagust véleményeztünk, a protonpumpagátló adagját duplájára emeltük. Jelenleg mindkét betegünk panaszmentes. Másik két betegünk nyelési képtelenségről, jelentős fogyásról panaszkodott. A nyelőcső-manometria alapján mindkettőjüknél nem relaxáló alsó oesophagealis sphinctert, hipomotilis nyelőcsövet, achalasiának megfelelő képet észleltünk. Endoszkópos nyelőcső-ballondilatációt követően a betegek nyelése rendeződött, táplálkozásra képessé váltak.Következtetések:Eseteink jól példázzák a 24 órás pH-mérés és a manometria szerepének jelentőségét a gastrooesophagealis refluxbetegség és a nyelési nehezítettség, az extraoesophagealis manifesztációk, a nem cardialis eredetű mellkasi fájdalom diagnosztikájában. E vizsgálatok fontos szerepet játszanak a helyes terápiás stratégia kialakításában, a műtéti vagy endoszkópos operatív kezelés indikálásában és e beavatkozások után a betegek követésében.
Perfil de diagnósticos de enfermagem em pessoas com diabetes segundo modelo conceitual de Orem
Authors: Teixeira Carla Regina de Souza , Zanetti Maria Lúcia , Pereira Marta Cristiane Alves
Published: October 2009

OBJETIVO: Identificar os diagnósticos de enfermagem em pessoas com diabetes mellitus, segundo o modelo conceitual de Orem. MÉTODOS: Participaram 31 pessoas com diabetes atendidas em um Centro Universitário de Pesquisa e Extensão, do interior paulista, em 2006. Os dados foram obtidos por meio de exame físico e entrevista dirigida de casos múltiplos. Os diagnósticos de enfermagem foram identificados segundo a Taxonomia II da NANDA, mediante o processo de raciocínio diagnóstico de Risner. RESULTADOS: Dos 37 diagnósticos de enfermagem, três apresentaram freqüência superior a 50%: controle ineficaz do regime terapêutico (67%), conhecimento deficiente (51%) e integridade da pele prejudicada (51%). Dezoito diagnósticos de enfermagem estavam relacionados aos requisitos para o autocuidado universal, preconizado por Orem CONCLUSÃO: Os diagnósticos de enfermagem mostraram-se indicadores diferenciados para guiar as ações educativas do enfermeiro com enfoque no desenvolvimento das habilidades de autocuidado para pessoas com diabetes.
A percepção de cegos e cegas diante das drogas
Authors: Pagliuca Lorita Marlena Freitag , Cezario Kariane Gomes , Mariano Monaliza Ribeiro
Published: October 2009

OBJETIVO: Compreender a percepção de mulheres e homens cegos sobre as drogas, comparando semelhanças e diferenças. MÉTODOS: Estudo descritivo, qualitativo, realizado em uma associação de cegos, em Fortaleza-CE, entre outubro de 2006 e março de 2007. A coleta de dados utilizou a entrevista com questão norteadora. A amostra foi limitada por saturação com cinco mulheres e sete homens. Adotou-se o método de Análise de Conteúdo, obtendo-se três temas. RESULTADOS: Os temas - O que sei - definem o que é droga e abrangência desta problemática; O que vivi - relatam repercussão das experiências pessoais e familiares com o uso das drogas; e O que penso sobre a prevenção - opinam sobre estratégias de prevenção. CONCLUSÕES: A problemática é entendida como agravante à saúde pública, afetando a sociedade e a vida do usuário. As influências de familiares, amigos e mídia aproximam às drogas ou não, reforçando a pertinência da promoção da saúde e prevenção entre os cegos.
Composição tecidual e perfil de ácidos graxos do lombo de cordeiros terminados em pasto com níveis de suplementação concentrada
Authors: Fernandes Maria Angela Machado , Monteiro Alda Lúcia Gomes , Poli César Henrique Espírito Candal , Barros Carina Simionato de , Prado Odilei Rogério , Salgado Jordana Andrioli
Published: October 2009

A composição tecidual da carne é característica importante na avaliação da qualidade sensorial e nutricional do produto. O presente trabalho avaliou a composição tecidual e o perfil de ácidos graxos do lombo de cordeiros desmamados aos 42 dias de idade média e terminados em pasto de azevém com níveis diários de suplementação concentrada (0, 1 e 2% do PV e ad libitum). O delineamento experimental foi de blocos ao acaso com três repetições. Os cordeiros foram abatidos ao atingirem 32kg de peso vivo. O lombo direito foi utilizado para determinação da composição tecidual e o esquerdo para análise de perfil de ácidos graxos. As análises de variância e de regressão foram realizadas com auxílio do programa SAS (2001). A suplementação concentrada de cordeiros terminados em pasto não teve efeito (P>0,05) sobre o desenvolvimento muscular e ósseo; no entanto, promoveu acréscimo linear na deposição de gordura intermuscular e total. Os níveis de suplementação estudados não tiveram efeito (P>0,05) sobre a quantidade e o percentual de cada ácido graxo da carne dos cordeiros. A suplementação concentrada de cordeiros desmamados em pasto de azevém aumentou a deposição de gordura na carcaça sem afetar a qualidade da carne para o consumo humano, considerando-se o perfil de ácidos graxos.
Tamanho e forma de parcela para pimentão em estufa plástica
Authors: Lorentz Leandro Homrich , Lúcio Alessandro Dal'col
Published: October 2009

O interior de uma estufa pode ser considerado um ambiente heterogêneo, o que se reflete numa grande variabilidade na produção, sendo necessário o uso de técnicas experimentais para a melhoria da precisão das inferências estatísticas. Dentre as formas de redução do erro experimental, está a busca do tamanho ótimo de parcela, que apresenta especial importância em experimentos com estufa plástica, visto que usualmente a área experimental é restrita às instalações já existentes. Este trabalho teve como objetivos: estimar o tamanho ótimo para a fitomassa fresca de frutos de pimentão cultivado em estufa plástica e relacionar os parâmetros das equações que determinam o tamanho ótimo de parcela. Conduziram-se quatro experimentos em branco sob cobertura plástica, cada um com oito fileiras de cultivo úteis de 70 plantas. Coletou-se em cada planta a fitomassa fresca dos frutos acumulada nas colheitas, identificando sua posição dentro da estufa pelo número da fileira e a sua posição dentro da fileira. Estimou-se o tamanho ótimo de parcela (X0) e se relacionaram estatísticas descritivas e os parâmetros usados para sua estimativa através do coeficiente de correlação de Pearson. Recomendou-se o uso de parcelas de 10 plantas na fileira ou fileiras duplas, com tendência a diminuir de tamanho com a permanência do experimento no campo. Não houve consistência na determinação das variáveis mais relacionadas com o tamanho ótimo da parcela.
Rapamycin impairs metabolism-secretion coupling in rat pancreatic islets by suppressing carbohydrate metabolism
Authors: Shimodahira Makiko , Fujimoto Shimpei , Mukai Eri , Nakamura Yasuhiko , Nishi Yuichi , Sasaki Mayumi , Sato Yuichi , Sato Hiroki , Hosokawa Masaya , Nagashima Kazuaki , Seino Yutaka , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: October 2009

Rapamycin, an immunosuppressant used in human transplantation, impairs β-cell function, but the mechanism is unclear. Chronic (24 h) exposure to rapamycin concentration dependently suppressed 16.7 mM glucose-induced insulin release from islets (1.65±0.06, 30 nM rapamycin versus 2.35±0.11 ng/islet per 30 min, control, n=30, P<0.01) without affecting insulin and DNA contents. Rapamycin also decreased α-ketoisocaproate-induced insulin release, suggesting reduced mitochondrial carbohydrate metabolism. ATP content in the presence of 16.7 mM glucose was significantly reduced in rapamycin-treated islets (13.42±0.47, rapamycin versus 16.04±0.46 pmol/islet, control, n=30, P<0.01). Glucose oxidation, which indicates the velocity of metabolism in the Krebs cycle, was decreased by rapamycin in the presence of 16.7 mM glucose (30.1±2.7, rapamycin versus 42.2±3.3 pmol/islet per 90 min, control, n=9, P<0.01). Immunoblotting revealed that the expression of complex I, III, IV, and V was not affected by rapamycin. Mitochondrial ATP production indicated that the respiratory chain downstream of complex II was not affected, but that carbohydrate metabolism in the Krebs cycle was reduced by rapamycin. Analysis of enzymes in the Krebs cycle revealed that activity of α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (KGDH), which catalyzes one of the slowest reactions in the Krebs cycle, was reduced by rapamycin (10.08±0.82, rapamycin versus 13.82±0.84 nmol/mg mitochondrial protein per min, control, n=5, P<0.01). Considered together, these findings indicate that rapamycin suppresses high glucose-induced insulin secretion from pancreatic islets by reducing mitochondrial ATP production through suppression of carbohydrate metabolism in the Krebs cycle, together with reduced KGDH activity.
Analysis of Injection/Falloff Data From Horizontal Wells
Authors: Boughrara Amina A. , Reynolds Albert C.
Published: October 2009

We have constructed new approximate analytical solutions for injection and falloff pressure response that include thermal effects that arise when flooding a reservoir with water that has a temperature considerably lower than that of the reservoir. We have developed an optimization code based on the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm and coupled it with our new approximate analytical solutions to obtain a procedure for data analysis where our approximate analytical solutions are used as the forward model in the nonlinear regression. We demonstrate that we can generate estimates of absolute permeabilities, the well skin factor, the length of the well and relative premeabilities by matching data to analytical solutions by minimization of a weighted least squares objective function. The relative permeability curves are constructed assuming a power law parametrization. In the horizontal well case, we show that the absolute permeabilities in the three principal directions can be resolved separately, provided the duration of the test is sufficiently long.
A New Organic Gel System for Water Control: a Computed Tomography Study
Authors: Al-Muntasheri Ghaithan A. , Zitha Pacelli L.J. , Nasr-El-Din Hisham A.
Published: October 2009

Because of their thermal stability, organically cross-linked gels have been used in conformance treatments for high-temperature applications. Most of these gels consist of a polyacrylamide-based polymer and an organic cross-linker. Polyethyleneimine (PEI) has been used as an organic cross-linker for polyacrylamide-based copolymers.

Allison and Purkaple (1988) reported that PEI can form aqueous gels with simple polyacrylamide (PAM) at room temperature. In a previous study (Al-Muntasheri et al. 2008), we have shown that PEI can form ringing gels with polyacrylamide homopolymers at temperatures up to 130°C (266°F). In addition, the gelation kinetics of this system was reported up to 140°C (285°F). However, the placement of this system in porous media was not examined.

In this study, the displacement of this gel system was visualized with computed tomography (CT) in sandstone cores. A permeability reduction of more than 94% was realized at 23°C for cores shut in at 50°C and 45°C.

In addition to CT visualization, this study reports on the bulk testing of this system over a wide range of concentrations of PAM and PEI. Visual observation revealed the formation of stable gels for 3 weeks at 100°C (212°F). These gels were rigid and nonflowing at PAM concentrations of 5, 7, and 9 wt% cross-linked with PEI at concentrations from 0.5 to 3 wt%.
Application and comparison of dynamic models to assess impact of loading variations on performance of denitrification filters
Authors: deBarbadillo C. , Sabherwal B. , Shaw A. , Schauer P.
Published: October 2009

Dynamic models were developed using two software packages to evaluate performance of a denitrification filter pilot under variable flow and nitrate loading conditions. Two data periods, including one at constant rate hydraulic loading and one under diurnal flow conditions, were used to calibrate the models. Two additional test periods, one with high nitrate loadings and the second with peak hydraulic loadings and intermittent methanol usage were used to validate the models. The paper presents the results and compares the features of the two models.
Active management of third stage of labor: evidence versus practice
Authors: OLADAPO OLUFEMI T. , AKINOLA OLUWAROTIMI I. , FAWOLE ADENIRAN O. , ADEYEMI ADEWALE S. , ADEGBOLA OMOLOLU , LOTO OLABISI M. , FABAMWO ADETOKUNBO O. , ALAO MOSES O. , SOTUNSA JOHN O. ,   for the Nigerian AMTSL Group
Published: October 2009

Objective. To determine the correct use of active management of third stage of labor (AMTSL) (using the full complement of existing standard definitions) and compare the outcomes of third stage of labor in women who received AMTSL (according to these definitions) with those who did not. Design. Observational, cross‐sectional survey. Setting. Seven tertiary centers in southwest Nigeria. Population. Women undergoing non‐instrumental vaginal deliveries. Methods. Prospective direct observations of childbirth procedures. AMTSL was defined according to Cochrane review, ICM/FIGO (International Confederation of Midwives/International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics), and WHO (World Health Organization) recommendations. Main outcome measures. Use of AMTSL and its components and outcome of third stage of labor. Results. There was a high rate of compliance with most of the individual components of AMTSL. The use of AMTSL varied widely with the definition applied and tended to decrease with increasing strictness of the criteria (Cochrane review: 88.9%; ICM/FIGO: 42%; WHO: 1.8%). The frequencies of adverse labor outcomes were generally low (postpartum hemorrhage (PPH): 4.9%; severe PPH: 0.8%; retained placenta: 1.9%; uterine inversion: 0.0%). Frequencies of PPH, postpartum anemia, and mean blood loss among women who received AMTSL according to the Cochrane review definition were significantly lower than for those who did not (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference between any of the outcomes for women who received AMTSL according to the ICM/FIGO definition and those who did not. Conclusions. The survey reveals substantial definition‐dependent variation in the providers' adherence to recommended AMTSL practices. The clinical implications of the current practice in this population suggest the need for randomized comparison of various AMTSL packages to determine their comparative effectiveness in the prevention of PPH.
Small scale distribution patterns and vertical migration of North Sea herring larvae (Clupea harengus, Teleostei: Clupeidea) in relation to abiotic and biotic factors
Authors: Haslob Holger , Rohlf Norbert , Schnack Dietrich
Published: October 2009

The distribution of herring larvae in relation to environmental conditions and the occurrence of possible prey and predator organisms was studied during a 4-day period on a permanent station in the northern North Sea in September 1999. The vertical distribution of herring larvae was sampled in 20-m intervals by means of a multiple-closing net. To resolve the small-scale patchiness of herring larvae and planktonic prey and predator organisms, a towed in-situ video system was used, the Ichthyoplankton Recorder. A diel vertical migration of herring larvae was observed with different intensities depending on their body length. Small larvae ( < 10 mm) were concentrated in the upper water layers during daytime and were distributed more homogenously during night time. Large larvae ( > 16 mm) showed the highest abundances in the upper water layers during the day and were concentrated in deeper water layers during the night. The presented results appear to be relevant for individual-based modelling of the fate of larval herring populations.
Effects of salinity on specific gravity and viability of eggs of a North American minnow (Cyprinidae)
Authors: Cowley David E. , Alleman Janelle C. , Sallenave Rossana , McShane Ryan R. , Shirey Patrick D.
Published: October 2009

The influence of salinity on survival, specific gravity, and size of eggs of the endangered Hybognathus amarus (Rio Grande silvery minnow) was studied to provide insight into factors affecting their potential dispersal and fate. Under low salinity conditions egg specific gravity declined significantly in the first hour after spawning as the perivitelline space of the egg filled with water. Egg specific gravity achieved a minimum value approximately 1 h post-spawning and remained approximately constant until hatching, which occurred near 48 h post-spawning at 20°C. Specific gravity of the egg depended on the salinity of the water surrounding the egg: hardened eggs changed rapidly in diameter and specific gravity when exposed to water of higher salinity. Size and specific gravity of H. amarus eggs also differed when the eggs were incubated in different groundwater sources. Experiments indicated that calcium chloride saline solution had a greater effect on egg specific gravity and size than did solutions of sodium or potassium chlorides. Survival of H. amarus eggs declined sharply at salinity greater than 3 (practical salinity units, PSU) and was only 5% at a salinity of 8. Habitat restoration to benefit H. amarus should consider the salinity of habitats in which eggs incubate.
Trophic flexibility in larvae of two fish species (lesser sandeel, Ammodytes marinus and dab, Limanda limanda)
Authors: Malzahn Arne M. , Boersma Maarten
Published: October 2009

We investigated the trophic level of larvae of two fish species (lesser sandeel. Ammodytes marinus, and dab, Limanda limanda) in spring 2004 by means of stable isotope signatures at the helgoland roads station (54°11.18’N and 07°54.00’ E). the signatures were contrasted with the spring succession of phytoplankton and zooplankton. Phytoplankton biomass remained low until the middle of April, when a bloom developed. the δ15N signature of the seston increased until the bloom started then decreased during the bloom. the δ15N of the larvae of both fish species generally followed the development of the baseline, but the decrease in the fishes’ trophic level (expressed as the ∆δ15N was larger than that of the seston, suggesting that larval fish switched their diet to lower trophic levels. For larval sandeel we found that the switch to feeding on lower trophic levels was accompanied by a decrease in nutritional condition, while this pattern was not apparent in larval dab. hence, larval sandeel were not able to substitute the lack of high trophic level zooplankton prey with prey originating from lower trophic levels; however, at least the smaller size classes of larval dab could successfully switch diets.
Recolonisation of spawning grounds in a recovering fish stock: recent changes in North Sea herring
Authors: Schmidt Jörn O. , Van Damme Cindy J.G. , Röckmann Christine , Dickey-Collas Mark
Published: October 2009

There is evidence that the importance of the different spawning grounds of North Sea autumn-spawning herring has changed. It has been hypothesised that as herring stocks collapse, the diversity of spawning sites also collapses. This was found to be the case in the North Sea autumn-spawning herring, which collapsed in the late 1970s. The ICES International Herring Larval Survey has been carried out since 1972 and covers most of the potential and historic spawning grounds of herring. The recovery of the stock did take place as predicted in terms of biomass, and re-colonisation of old spawning sites also did occur. We show that, despite the delayed response in re-colonisation of the southern spawning areas, there is almost no change in the number of spawning locations where the highest abundances of larvae (top 50%) are found from collapse to recovery (approximately 9 sites). It was a change in these core sites and the spread to other locations with lower larval abundance that caused the spread of herring spawning. We show that larval surveys are a useful tool for describing the dynamics of sub-stock structure in heterogeneous populations such as herring.
Tissue effect on RNA:DNA ratios of marine fish larvae
Authors: Pilar Olivar M. , Diaz Marina V. , Alexandra Chícharo M.
Published: October 2009

In some routine studies of larval condition based on RNA:DNA ratios, heads and/or guts are removed for further age and feeding analysis. Also, during capture larvae are often found with their eyes missing. In this work we analysed tissues effects (muscle, head, eye, gut and the whole larvae) on RNA:DNA ratios from different species (Sardina pilchardus, Engraulis encrasicolus, Atherina presbyter and Paralichthys orbignyanus) in different developmental stages and from different locations. For all species and development phases, it was shown that RNA:DNA ratios in the head were significantly lower than in muscle or gut. The comparison of RNA:DNA ratios of head with or without eyes did not show significant differences. In a comparison of results from muscle from two tail sections, RNA:DNA ratios were higher for the anterior section in Sardina pilchardus and Engraulis encrasicolus larvae. Caution is needed when RNA:DNA ratios are compared with other studies employing different dissection protocols. For the species studied we propose conversion factors to be applied to RNA:DNA ratio data when different body sections are analysed. We discuss the most appropriate tissues for assessing nutritional condition in fish larvae, based on trends in concentrations of nucleic acids and ratios during starvation experiments.
Spatial distribution and dietary overlap between Japanese anchovy Engraulis japonicus and moon jellyfish Aurelia aurita in the Seto Inland Sea, Japan
Authors: Shoji Jun , Mizuno Ken-Ichiro , Yamamoto Masayuki , Miller Todd William , Hamaoka Hideki , Omori Koji
Published: October 2009

Biological and physical surveys were conducted in order to investigate the relationship between environmental conditions and the distribution of ichthyoplankton and jellyfish, and dietary overlap between the ichthyoplankton and jellyfish in the Seto Inland Sea (SIS), Japan. Ichthyoplankton, copepods, and jellyfish were collected during two cruises in July 2005 in the Sea of Hiuchi and in July 2006 in Hiroshima Bay within the SIS. Sea surface temperature (˚C), salinity, bottom-layer dissolved oxygen (mg l-1) and the abundance (no. m-2) of fish eggs and larvae were significantly higher in the Sea of Hiuchi. Japanese anchovy was most dominant (69.3% in number of eggs and 52.3% in number of larvae) among the ichthyoplankton. Mean jellyfish biomass (g m-2) in Hiroshima Bay was significantly higher (50-folds) than that in the Sea of Hiuchi. Moon jellyfish was the most dominant among the jellyfish collected, accounting for 85.6% in wet weight. Surface temperature had a significant effect on fish egg and larval distribution: abundance of fish eggs and larvae increased with increasing temperature. Jellyfish abundance was negatively correlated with the bottom-layer oxygen concentration. Stable isotope analysis indicated dietary overlap between the Japanese anchovy and the moon jellyfish in Hiroshima Bay.
Rearing larvae of dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus (Lowe, 1834), (Pisces: Serranidae) in a semi-extensive mesocosm
Authors: Cunha Maria Emília , Quental Hugo , Barradas Ana , Pousão-Ferreira Pedro , Cabrita Elsa , Engrola Sofia
Published: October 2009

One of the major obstacles to propagating dusky grouper, Epinephelus marginatus, is the difficulty of rearing the early larvae. We have successfully raised dusky grouper larvae in mesocosms using a mixed diet of endogenous plankton grown in the rearing tank and an exogenous supply of Brachionus plicatilis and Artemia sp. Newly hatched larvae at an initial density of 1.3 ind.l-1 were stocked in partially shaded 3 m3 circular outdoor tanks during the summers of 2007 and 2008. Before introducing newly hatched larvae, the water was left for six days to promote plankton growth. Larval growth occurred at two different rates: i) a faster rate from first feeding to the beginning of metamorphosis, and ii) a slower rate at transformation. Survival at the beginning of metamorphosis was less than 10% (33 DPH) in 2007 and between 25 and 50% (25 DPH) in 2008. High mortalities were observed during larval transformation. The estimated minimum food requirement per grouper larvae increased more than 300% from the beginning of the notochord flexion to the beginning of metamorphosis. To meet such a high feeding requirement the number of larger prey organisms/copepods in the mesocosm should be eight times higher during this time period.
Sodium Benzoate, a Metabolite of Cinnamon and a Food Additive, Reduces Microglial and Astroglial Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Brahmachari Saurav , Jana Arundhati , Pahan Kalipada
Published: October 2009

Upon activation, microglia and astrocytes produce a number of proinflammatory molecules that participate in the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative disorders. This study explores the anti-inflammatory property of cinnamon metabolite sodium benzoate (NaB) in microglia and astrocytes. NaB, but not sodium formate, was found to inhibit LPS-induced expression of inducible NO synthase (iNOS), proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β) and surface markers (CD11b, CD11c, and CD68) in mouse microglia. Similarly, NaB also inhibited fibrillar amyloid β (Aβ)-, prion peptide-, double-stranded RNA (polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid)-, HIV-1 Tat-, 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium+-, IL-1β-, and IL-12 p402-induced microglial expression of iNOS. In addition to microglia, NaB also suppressed the expression of iNOS in mouse peritoneal macrophages and primary human astrocytes. Inhibition of NF-κB activation by NaB suggests that NaB exerts its anti-inflammatory effect through the inhibition of NF-κB. Although NaB reduced the level of cholesterol in vivo in mice, reversal of the inhibitory effect of NaB on iNOS expression, and NF-κB activation by hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA, mevalonate, and farnesyl pyrophosphate, but not cholesterol and ubiquinone, suggests that depletion of intermediates, but not end products, of the mevalonate pathway is involved in the anti-inflammatory effect of NaB. Furthermore, we demonstrate that an inhibitor of p21ras farnesyl protein transferase suppressed the expression of iNOS, that activation of p21ras alone was sufficient to induce the expression of iNOS, and that NaB suppressed the activation of p21ras in microglia. These results highlight a novel anti-inflammatory role of NaB via modulation of the mevalonate pathway and p21ras.
Resistance of Human Alveolar Macrophages toBacillus anthracisLethal Toxin
Authors: Wu Wenxin , Mehta Harshini , Chakrabarty Kaushik , Booth J. Leland , Duggan Elizabeth S. , Patel Krupa B. , Ballard Jimmy D. , Coggeshall K. Mark , Metcalf Jordan P.
Published: October 2009

The etiologic agent of inhalational anthrax, Bacillus anthracis, produces virulence toxins that are important in the disease pathogenesis. Current studies suggest that mouse and human macrophages are susceptible to immunosuppressive effects of one of the virulence toxins, lethal toxin (LT). Thus a paradigm has emerged that holds that the alveolar macrophage (AM) does not play a significant role in the innate immune response to B. anthracis or defend against the pathogen as it is disabled by LT. This is inconsistent with animal models and autopsy studies that show minimal disease at the alveolar surface. We examined whether AM are immunosuppressed by LT. We found that human AM were relatively resistant to LT-mediated innate immune cytokine suppression, MEK cleavage, and induction of apoptosis as compared with mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages. Mouse AM and murine bone marrow-derived macrophages were also relatively resistant to LT-mediated apoptosis despite intermediate sensitivity to MEK cleavage. The binding component of LT, protective Ag, does not attach to human AM, although it did bind to mouse AM, murine bone marrow-derived macrophages, and RAW 264.7 macrophages. Human AM do not produce significant amounts of the protective Ag receptor anthrax toxin receptor 1 (TEM8/ANTXR1) and anthrax toxin receptor 2 (CMG2/ANTXR2). Thus, mature and differentiated AM are relatively resistant to the effects of LT as compared with mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages. AM resistance to LT may enhance clearance of the pathogen from the alveolar surface and explain why this surface is relatively free of B. anthracis in animal models and autopsy studies.
Enhanced Tumor Metastasis in Response to Blockade of the Chemokine Receptor CXCR6 Is Overcome by NKT Cell Activation
Authors: Cullen Robyn , Germanov Elitza , Shimaoka Takeshi , Johnston Brent
Published: October 2009

Invariant NKT (iNKT) cells can induce potent antitumor responses in vivo. However, the mechanisms that regulate the effects of iNKT cells are unclear. The chemokine receptor CXCR6, and its ligand CXCL16, have been shown to play critical roles in iNKT cell homeostasis and activation. Thus we investigated the role of CXCR6 in protection against experimental metastasis of B16-F10 melanoma (B16) and Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cells to the liver and lungs. Wild-type and CXCR6−/− mice exhibited no differences in tumor cell metastasis to the lungs. However, metastasis of LLC and B16 tumor cells to the liver was enhanced in CXCR6−/− mice. Liver metastasis was also increased in wild-type mice treated with a CXCL16 neutralizing Ab. As Ab treatments did not alter iNKT cell numbers, this implicates a direct role for CXCR6/CXCL16 in regulating antitumor immunity. Cytokine induction was significantly attenuated in CXCR6−/− mice upon systemic iNKT cell activation with the glycolipid Ags α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), α-C-GalCer (a Th1 polarizing derivative), or OCH (a Th2 polarizing derivative). Despite differences in the levels of cytokine production, liver and lung metastasis were inhibited significantly in both wild-type and CXCR6−/− mice treated with glycolipids. Single doses of α-GalCer, α-C-GalCer, or OCH were sufficient to prevent liver metastasis and subsequent doses failed to elicit optimal cytokine responses. Our findings implicate a role for CXCR6 in natural immunosurveillance against liver metastasis. However, CXCR6 deficiency could be overcome by systemic iNKT cell activation, demonstrating that even suboptimal iNKT cell activation can protect against metastasis.