bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A High‐Throughput Solid‐Phase Microplate Protein‐Binding Assay to Investigate Interactions between Myofilament Proteins
Authors: Biesiadecki Brandon J. , Jin J.-P.
Published: November 2011

To understand the structure‐function relationship of muscle‐regulatory‐protein isoforms, mutations, and posttranslational modifications, it is necessary to probe functional effects at the level of the protein‐protein interaction. Traditional methodologies assessing such protein‐protein interactions are laborious and require significant amounts of purified protein, while many current methodologies require costly and specialized equipment or modification of the proteins, which may affect their interaction. To address these issues, we developed a novel method of microplate‐based solid‐phase protein‐binding assay over the recent years. This method assesses specific protein‐protein interactions at physiological conditions, utilizes relatively small amounts of protein, is free of protein modification, and does not require specialized instrumentation. Here we present detailed methodology for the solid‐phase protein‐binding assay with examples that we have successfully applied to quantify interactions of myofilament‐regulatory proteins. We further provide considerations for optimization of the assay conditions and its broader application in studies of other protein‐protein interactions.
The Fractional SIRC Model and Influenza A
Authors: El-Shahed Moustafa , Alsaedi Ahmed
Published: November 2011

This paper deals with the fractional‐order SIRC model associated with the evolution of influenza A disease in human population. Qualitative dynamics of the model is determined by the basic reproduction number, R0. We give a detailed analysis for the asymptotic stability of disease‐free and positive fixed points. Nonstandard finite difference methods have been used to solve and simulate the system of differential equations.
The IQ Motif is Crucial for Cav1.1 Function
Authors: Stroffekova Katarina
Published: November 2011

Ca2+‐dependent modulation via calmodulin, with consensus CaM‐binding IQ motif playing a key role, has been documented for most high‐voltage‐activated Ca2+ channels. The skeletal muscle Cav1.1 also exhibits Ca2+‐/CaM‐dependent modulation. Here, whole‐cell Ca2+ current, Ca2+ transient, and maximal, immobilization‐resistant charge movement (Qmax) recordings were obtained from cultured mouse myotubes, to test a role of IQ motif in function of Cav1.1. The effect of introducing mutation (IQ to AA) of IQ motif into Cav1.1 was examined. In dysgenic myotubes expressing YFP‐Cav1.1AA, neither Ca2+ currents nor evoked Ca2+ transients were detectable. The loss of Ca2+ current and excitation‐contraction coupling did not appear to be a consequence of defective trafficking to the sarcolemma. The Qmax in dysgenic myotubes expressing YFP‐Cav1.1AA was similar to that of normal myotubes. These findings suggest that the IQ motif of the Cav1.1 may be an unrecognized site of structural and functional coupling between DHPR and RyR.
Effect of Ground Motion Directionality on Fragility Characteristics of a Highway Bridge
Authors: Banerjee Basu Swagata , Shinozuka Masanobu
Published: November 2011

It is difficult to incorporate multidimensional effect of the ground motion in the design and response analysis of structures. The motion trajectory in the corresponding multi-dimensional space results in time variant principal axes of the motion and defies any meaningful definition of directionality of the motion. However, it is desirable to consider the directionality of the ground motion in assessing the seismic damageability of bridges which are one of the most vulnerable components of highway transportation systems. This paper presents a practice-oriented procedure in which the structure can be designed to ensure the safety under single or a pair of independent orthogonal ground motions traveling horizontally with an arbitrary direction to structural axis. This procedure uses nonlinear time history analysis and accounts for the effect of directionality in the form of fragility curves. The word directionality used here is different from “directivity” used in seismology to mean a specific characteristic of seismic fault movement.
Completely Dissipative Maps and Stinespring′s Dilation‐Type Theorem on σ‐C*‐Algebras
Authors: Xu Tian Zhou
Published: November 2011

The notion of the completely dissipative maps on σ‐C*‐algebras is introduced. We show that a completely dissipative map induces a representation of a σ‐C*‐algebra. The classical Stinespring′s dilation‐type theorem is extended to a more general setting.
[Retracted] The Beneficial Effect of Direct Peritoneal Resuscitation on Septic Shock in Rats
Authors: Luo Xingjun , Jian Daolin , Lv Zuojun
Published: November 2011

The high mortality associated with conventionally resuscitated septic shock and the subsequent multiple‐organ failure remain a very significant and costly clinical problem. Conventional simple intravenous resuscitation (CR) from septic shock often fails to restore the progressive splanchnic vasoconstriction and hypoperfusion, and fails to reverse gut‐derived systemic inflammatory response and fluid sequestration. Numerous interventions have been used to protect organ systems and cellular viability from the lethal injury accompanying hypoperfusion and ischemia but none of these efforts have been sufficient to halt or reverse the main course of the pathophysiology noted with conventional resuscitated shock. Recently, some studies have found that in hemorrhagic shock, direct peritoneal resuscitation (DPR) not only produces sustained hyperperfusion in viscera but also has immunomodulatory and anti‐fluid sequestration effects. Although the etiology and pathogenesis of septic shock and hemorrhagic shock differ, both kinds of shock result in hypoperfusion of the intestines and other internal organs. In this paper, we seek to determine whether DPR has a similar therapeutic effect on septic shock/resuscitation.
The Effect of Multilayer Gold Nanoparticles on the Electrochemical Response of Ammonium Ion Biosensor Based on Alanine Dehydrogenase Enzyme
Authors: Ling Ling Tan , Ahmad Musa , Yook Heng Lee , Chee Seng Toh
Published: November 2011

The use of multilayer of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) attached on gold electrode surface via thiol chemistry to fabricate an ammonium (NH4+) ion biosensor based on alanine dehydrogenase (AlaDH) was investigated. The approach of the study was based on construction of biosensor by direct deposition of AuNPs and 1,8-octanedithiol (C8-DT) onto the gold electrode surface. For the immobilisation of enzyme, 2-mercaptoethanol (2BME) was first covalently attached to AlaDH via esther bonding and then followed by chemically attached the 2BME-modified AlaDH (2BME-AlaDH) moiety onto the AuNPs electrode via the exposed thiol group of 2BME. The resulting biosensor response was examined by means of amperometry for the quantification ofNH4+ion. In the absence of enzyme attachment, the use of three layers of AuNPs was found to improve the electrochemistry of the gold electrode when compared with no AuNPs was coated. However, when more than three layers of AuNPs were coated, the electrode response deteriorated due to excessive deposition of C8-DT. When AlaDH was incoporated into the AuNPs modified electrode, a linear response toNH4+ion over the concentration range of 0.1–0.5 mM with a detection limit of 0.01 mM was obtained. In the absence of AuNPs, theNH4+ion biosensor did not exhibit any good linear response range although the current response was observed to be higher. This work demonstrated that the incorporation of AuNPs could lead to the detection of higherNH4+ion concentration without the need of dilution for highNH4+ion concentration samples with a rapid response time of <1 min.
Adhesion on Nanoorganized Multilayers
Authors: Kazzi Yolla , Awada Houssein
Published: November 2011

Nanostructured multilayers composed of alternate
organic (alkyldithiol) and metallic (gold)
layers are grafted onto glass plates and
prepared in order to modify the mechanical and
local dissipative properties of a thin surface
layer of the substrate. The adhesion phenomenon
between a polyisoprene elastomer and these
layers is presented and verified by two
theories, namely, Johnson, Kendall, Roberts
(JKR) and linear elastic fracture mechanics. The
increase in adhesion with contact time following
a power law has been clearly
noted.
An Interpolated Flying-Adder-Based Frequency Synthesizer
Authors: Chen Pao-Lung , Tsai Chun-Chien
Published: November 2011

This work presents an interpolated flying-adder- (FA-) based frequency synthesizer. The architecture of an interpolated FA, which uses an interpolated multiplexer (MUX) to replace the multiplexer in conventional flying adder, improves the cycle-to-cycle jitter and root-mean-square (RMS) jitter performance. A multiphase all-digital phase-locked loop (ADPLL) provides steady reference signals for the interpolated flying adder. This paper reveals implementation skills of a multiphase ADPLL, as well as an interpolated flying adder. In addition, analytical details of the jitter performance are derived. A test chip for the proposed interpolated FA-based frequency synthesizer was fabricated in a standard 0.18 μm CMOS technology, and the core area was 0.143 mm2. The output frequency had a range of 33 MHz ~ 286 MHz at 1.8 V with peak-to-peak (Pk-Pk) jitter 215.2 ps at 286 MHz/1.8 V.
Assembly of the Complex between Archaeal RNase P Proteins RPP30 and Pop5
Authors: Crowe Brandon L. , Bohlen Christopher J. , Wilson Ross C. , Gopalan Venkat , Foster Mark P.
Published: November 2011

RNase P is a highly conserved ribonucleoprotein enzyme that represents a model complex for understanding macromolecular RNA-protein interactions. Archaeal RNase P consists of one RNA and up to five proteins (Pop5, RPP30, RPP21, RPP29, and RPP38/L7Ae). Four of these proteins function in pairs (Pop5-RPP30 and RPP21–RPP29). We have used nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) to characterize the interaction between Pop5 and RPP30 from the hyperthermophilic archaeonPyrococcus furiosus(Pfu). NMR backbone resonance assignments of free RPP30 (25 kDa) indicate that the protein is well structured in solution, with a secondary structure matching that observed in a closely related crystal structure. Chemical shift perturbations upon the addition of Pop5 (14 kDa) reveal its binding surface on RPP30. ITC experiments confirm a net 1 : 1 stoichiometry for this tight protein-protein interaction and exhibit complex isotherms, indicative of higher-order binding. Indeed, light scattering and size exclusion chromatography data reveal the complex to exist as a 78 kDa heterotetramer with two copies each of Pop5 and RPP30. These results will inform future efforts to elucidate the functional role of the Pop5-RPP30 complex in RNase P assembly and catalysis.
Pure Duplication of the Distal Long Arm of Chromosome 15 with Ebstein Anomaly and Clavicular Anomaly
Authors: O'Connor Rachel , Al-Murrani Amel , Aftimos Salim , Asquith Philip , Mazzaschi Roberto , Eyrolle-Guignot Dominique , George Alice M. , Love Donald R.
Published: November 2011

This report is of a patient with pure trisomy of 15q24-qter who presents with the rare Ebstein anomaly and a previously unreported skeletal anomaly. Chromosome microarray analysis allowed high-resolution identification of the extent of the trisomy and provided a means of achieving higher-resolution breakpoint data. The phenotypic expression of unbalanced chromosomal regions is a complex phenomenon, and fine mapping of the involved region, as described here, is only a first step on the path to its full understanding. Overexpression of theLINGO-1andCSPG4genes has been implicated in developmental delay seen in other patients with trisomy of 15q24-qter, but our patient is currently too young to ascertain developmental progress. The genetic underpinning of Ebstein anomaly and the skeletal anomaly reported here is unclear based on our high-resolution dosage mapping.
Comparing Measures of Late HIV Diagnosis in Washington State
Authors: Saganic Laura , Carr Jason , Solorio Rosa , Courogen Maria , Jaenicke Tom , Duerr Ann
Published: November 2011

As more US HIV surveillance programs routinely use late HIV diagnosis to monitor and characterize HIV testing patterns, there is an increasing need to standardize how late HIV diagnosis is measured. In this study, we compared two measures of late HIV diagnosis, one based on time between HIV and AIDS, the other based on initial CD4+results. Using data from Washington's HIV/AIDS Reporting System, we used multivariate logistic regression to identify predictors of late HIV diagnosis. We also conducted tests for trend to determine whether the proportion of cases diagnosed late has changed over time. Both measures lead us to similar conclusions about late HIV diagnosis, suggesting that being male, older, foreign-born, or heterosexual increase the likelihood of late HIV diagnosis. Our findings reaffirm the validity of a time-based definition of late HIV diagnosis, while at the same time demonstrating the potential value of a lab-based measure.
Molecular Targets for the Treatment of Juvenile Myelomonocytic Leukemia
Authors: Liu Xiaoling , Sabnis Himalee , Bunting Kevin D. , Qu Cheng-Kui
Published: November 2011

Significant advances in our understanding of the genetic defects and the pathogenesis of juvenile myelomonocytic leukemia (JMML) have been achieved in the last several years. The information gathered tremendously helps us in designing molecular targeted therapies for this otherwise fatal disease. Various approaches are being investigated to target defective pathways/molecules in this disease. However, effective therapy is still lacking. Development of specific target-based drugs for JMML remains a big challenge and represents a promising direction in this field.
Surface Characterization of Asymmetric Bi-Soft Segment Poly(ester urethane urea) Membranes for Blood-Oxygenation Medical Devices
Authors: Faria Mónica , Geraldes Vítor , de Pinho Maria Norberta
Published: November 2011

Asymmetric bi-soft segment poly(ester urethane urea) (PEUU) membranes containing polycaprolactone (PCL) as a second soft segment are synthesized with PCL-diol ranging from 0% to 15% (w/w). Bulk and surface characteristics of the PEUU membranes were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), static water contact angles, and surface streaming potentials and were correlated to hemocompatibility properties, namely, hemolysis and thrombosis degrees. SEM analysis reveals PEUU membranes with asymmetric cross-sections and top dense surfaces with distinct morphologies. The increase in PCL-diol content yields PEUU membranes with blood-contacting surfaces that are smoother, more hydrophilic, and with higher maximum zeta potentials. The results obtained in this work give no evidence of a correlation between hydrophilicity/zeta potentials and the hemolysis/thrombosis degree of blood-contacting surfaces of the PEUU membranes. In contrast, other hemocompatibility aspects reveal that the more hydrophilic membranes are associated with lower platelet deposition and inhibition of extreme states of platelet activation.
Modeling and Representation of Human Hearts for Volumetric Measurement
Authors: Guan Qiu , Wang Wanliang , Wu Guang
Published: November 2011

This paper investigates automatic construction of a three-dimensional heart model from a set of medical images, represents it in a deformable shape, and uses it to perform volumetric measurements. This not only significantly improves its reliability and accuracy but also makes it possible to derive valuable novel information, like various assessment and dynamic volumetric measurements. The method is based on a flexible model trained from hundreds of patient image sets by a genetic algorithm, which takes advantage of complete segmentation of the heart shape to form a geometrical heart model. For an image set of a new patient, an interpretation scheme is used to obtain its shape and evaluate some important parameters. Apart from automatic evaluation of traditional heart functions, some new information of cardiovascular diseases may be recognized from the volumetric analysis.
Accuracy of Intensity and Inclinometer Output of Three Activity Monitors for Identification of Sedentary Behavior and Light-Intensity Activity
Authors: Carr Lucas J. , Mahar Matthew T.
Published: November 2011

Purpose. To examine the accuracy of intensity and inclinometer output of three physical activity monitors during various sedentary and light-intensity activities.Methods. Thirty-six participants wore three physical activity monitors (ActiGraph GT1M, ActiGraph GT3X+, and StepWatch) while completing sedentary (lying, sitting watching television, sitting using computer, and standing still) light (walking 1.0 mph, pedaling 7.0 mph, pedaling 15.0 mph) intensity activities under controlled settings. Accuracy for correctly categorizing intensity was assessed for each monitor and threshold. Accuracy of the GT3X+ inclinometer function (GT3X+Incl) for correctly identifying anatomical position was also assessed. Percentage agreement between direct observation and the monitor recorded time spent in sedentary behavior and light intensity was examined.Results. All monitors using all thresholds accurately identified over 80% of sedentary behaviors and 60% of light-intensity walking time based on intensity output. The StepWatch was the most accurate in detecting pedaling time but unable to detect pedal workload. The GT3X+Incl accurately identified anatomical position during 70% of all activities but demonstrated limitations in discriminating between activities of differing intensity.Conclusions. Our findings suggest that all three monitors accurately measure most sedentary and light-intensity activities although choice of monitors should be based on study-specific needs.
Community-Led Assessment of Risk from Exposure to Mercury by Native Amerindian Wayana in Southeast Suriname
Authors: Peplow Daniel , Augustine Sarah
Published: November 2011

This study was a collaboration between Western public health researchers and Suriname indigenous communities. The question asked was “how can Western researchers effectively engage traditional indigenous communities in Suriname, South America, in public health research”. The approach used a combination of Participatory Action Research methods in which “Western” researchers became participating observers in an indigenous-led research initiative. The Wayana communities of Puleowime (Apetina) and Kawemhakan (Anapayke) defined a single objective: determine for themselves whether they are at risk from exposure to mercury (Hg) contamination. Community members collected hair samples for analysis. Hair samples were analyzed using a portable Hg analyzer. Individual, community and hazard quotient indices were used to quantify risk. Results showed the Wayana were at a high lifetime risk of adverse effects from exposure to Hg. This study showed that the community-led approach is an effective way Westerners can engage indigenous communities and address serious public health threats. While factors that appealed to indigenous communities were identified, obstacles inherent to Western research methodology were also encountered.
Aging Adults and Seasonal Influenza: Does the Vitamin D Status (H)Arm the Body?
Authors: Lang Pierre Olivier , Samaras Dimitrios
Published: November 2011

Vitamin D (VitD), although originally described as an essential hormone for bone and mineral homeostasis, appears to have an active role in regulating specific facets of human immunity. Indeed, VitD has been shown to have significant effects on cytokine production and lymphocyte proliferation. Evidence that VitD affects clearance of selected pathogens is supported by epidemiological and clinical data, while its coadministration with influenza vaccine in mice enhanced both mucosal and systemic antibody responses. This paper aims to examine how VitD may contribute to limiting the burden of influenza infection in the aging and aged adults, a population in which this burden remains considerable. Furthermore, we discuss how VitD status may play a role in host resistance to influenza virus and influence the immunogenicity of the influenza vaccines currently licensed for adults aged 65 years or over by its effects on innate and adaptive immunities.
Manufacturing Strategy for Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes as a Biocompatible and Innovative Material
Authors: Haniu Hisao , Saito Naoto , Matsuda Yoshikazu , Usui Yuki , Aoki Kaoru , Shimizu Masayuki , Ogihara Nobuhide , Hara Kazuo , Takanashi Seiji , Okamoto Masanori , Nakamura Koichi , Ishigaki Norio , Tsukahara Tamotsu , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: November 2011

We investigated the relationship between differences in multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and the biological responses they elicit in order to develop biocompatible MWCNTs. We exposed human bronchial epithelial (BEAS-2B) cells to two sizes and six grades of MWCNTs and measured the resulting cell viability, total reactive oxygen and/or nitrogen species (tROS/RNS) production, and cytokine secretion. Although differences in cellular tROS production were associated with differences in grades of MWCNTs, the graphitization temperature of MWCNTs apparently did not influence tROS production. However, cell viability was affected by MWCNT graphitization temperature and diameter. Moreover, cytokine secretion was apparently affected by treatment temperature, but not MWCNT diameter. We concluded that the highest temperature resulted in the most biocompatibility because impurities and carbon defects were removed from the MWCNTs. However, other mechanisms are possible. Therefore, it is important to optimize each type of MWCNT by monitoring biological responses that type elicits during the manufacturing stage for applications involving biology and medicine.
Interesting Behavior ofPachycormus discolorLeaves Ethanol Extract as a Corrosion Inhibitor of Carbon Steel in 1 M HCl: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Garcia Inzunza Ramses , Valdez Salas Benjamín , Kharshan Rita , Furman Alla , Schorr Wienner Michael
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the inhibitive action of an ethanol extract from the leaves ofPachycormus discolor (EEPD)on the corrosion of carbon steel in 1 M HCl at different temperatures; gravimetric method and electrochemical tests were conducted. Potentiodynamic polarization was used at room temperature and resistance polarization at different temperatures. Thermodynamic adsorption parameters are shown in order to demonstrate the spontaneous adsorption. The inhibition of EEPD was performed via adsorption of the extract species on the carbon steel surface. The ethanol extract obeys Langmuir adsorption isotherm. Potentiodynamic polarization results indicate that the ethanol extract acts as a mixed type inhibitor. The results revealed that the inhibition efficiency (IE) of EEPD increases (when the concentration is increased). Phytochemical and FTIR analyses are also presented in this work. It was found that the IE increases with the temperature in a 2.0% v/v solution which showed 94.52% IE at C and 97.89% at C.
ERK1/2 Regulation of CD44 Modulates Oral Cancer Aggressiveness
Authors: Judd Nancy P. , Winkler Ashley E. , Murillo-Sauca Oihana , Brotman Joshua J. , Law Jonathan H. , Lewis James S. , Dunn Gavin P. , Bui Jack D. , Sunwoo John B. , Uppaluri Ravindra
Published: November 2011

Carcinogen-induced oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) incurs significant morbidity and mortality and constitutes a global health challenge. To gain further insight into this disease, we generated cell line models from 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene–induced murine primary OSCC capable of tumor formation upon transplantation into immunocompetent wild-type mice. Whereas several cell lines grew rapidly and were capable of metastasis, some grew slowly and did not metastasize. Aggressively growing cell lines displayed ERK1/2 activation, which stimulated expression of CD44, a marker associated with epithelial to mesenchymal transition and putative cancer stem cells. MEK (MAP/ERK kinase) inhibition upstream of ERK1/2 decreased CD44 expression and promoter activity and reduced cell migration and invasion. Conversely, MEK1 activation enhanced CD44 expression and promoter activity, whereas CD44 attenuation reduced in vitro migration and in vivo tumor formation. Extending these findings to freshly resected human OSCC, we confirmed a strict relationship between ERK1/2 phosphorylation and CD44 expression. In summary, our findings identify CD44 as a critical target of ERK1/2 in promoting tumor aggressiveness and offer a preclinical proof–of-concept to target this pathway as a strategy to treat head and neck cancer. Cancer Res; 72(1); 365–74. ©2011 AACR.
Impact of Tongue Reduction on Overall Speech Intelligibility, Articulation and Oromyofunctional Behavior in 4 Children with Beckwith-Wiedemann Syndrome
Authors: Van Lierde K. , Galiwango G. , Hodges A. , Bettens K. , Luyten A. , Vermeersch H.
Published: November 2011

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of partial glossectomy (using the keyhole technique) on speech intelligibility, articulation, resonance and oromyofunctional behavior. Patients and Methods: A partial glossectomy was performed in 4 children with Beckwith- Wiedemann syndrome between the ages of 0.5 and 3.1 years. An ENT assessment, a phonetic inventory, a phonemic and phonological analysis and a consensus perceptual evaluation of speech intelligibility, resonance and oromyofunctional behavior were performed. Results: It was not possible in this study to separate the effects of the surgery from the typical developmental progress of speech sound mastery. Improved speech intelligibility, a more complete phonetic inventory, an increase in phonological skills, normal resonance and increased motor-oriented oral behavior were found in the postsurgical condition. The presence of phonetic distortions, lip incompetence and interdental tongue position were still present in the postsurgical condition. Conclusion: Speech therapy should be focused on correct phonetic placement and a motor-oriented approach to increase lip competence, and on functional tongue exercises and tongue lifting during the production of alveolars. Detailed analyses in a larger number of subjects with and without Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome may help further illustrate the long-term impact of partial glossectomy.
Radiological Imaging of the Small Bowel
Authors: Schreyer A.G. , Stroszczynski C.
Published: November 2011

Recently introduced endoscopy-based imaging methods such as double-balloon endoscopy or wireless capsule endoscopy can visualize the complete small bowel. These approaches are quite invasive diagnostic methods. Therefore, radiological small bowel imaging is also still considered as the primary imaging approach to diagnose pathological changes of the small bowel. In this review article the most important small bowel imaging modalities such as conventional fluoroscopy, computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound are discussed. Additionally the most important diseases, which can affect the small bowel, are evaluated and the optimal imaging modalities are pointed out, respectively.
Non-Invasive Prenatal Genetic Testing: A Study of Public Attitudes
Authors: Kelly S.E. , Farrimond H.R.
Published: November 2011

Background/Objectives: Non-invasive prenatal genetic diagnostic (NIPD) tests are being developed using cell-free fetal DNA in the maternal circulation. NIPD tests avoid or reduce the need for invasive diagnostic procedures for conditions like Down syndrome. Discussion of ethical and social implications of these techniques is increasing. We report findings from a study of public attitudes relevant to the introduction of NIPD. A key aim was to examine the range of attitudes relevant to NIPD within a diverse sample. Methods: Qualitative analysis of written free text ‘first responses’ to a written neutral description of NIPD as part of a Q-methodology study conducted with a purposive sample of the UK population (n = 71). Results: The majority (63%) of respondents described their first response as positive. However, respondents displayed ambivalence, expressing positive views of individual/medical rationale for NIPD and unease concerning public health rationale and societal implications. Unease related to eugenic reasoning underlying existing prenatal testing, ‘too much control’ in reproduction, commercial provision, information and support requirements for expanded testing, and limiting the use of testing. Conclusions: These findings suggest that regulating and monitoring commercial provision of NIPD services, and monitoring introduction and clinical use, are a public preference.
The Intriguing Relationship of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Acid Secretion in Peptic Ulcer Disease and Gastric Cancer
Authors: Malfertheiner P.
Published: November 2011

Helicobacter pylori infection induces chronic inflammation of the gastric mucosa and thus profoundly affects gastric physiology. In the acute phase of infection, gastric acid secretion is transiently impaired. The morphological damage of the gastric mucosa, changes in gastric hormone release, and disruption of neural pathways all contribute to influence gastric acid secretion in a distinct manner. Changes in gastric acid secretion, whether impaired or increased, are intimately related with the topographic phenotypes of gastritis and the presence of atrophy or absence of corpus atrophy. The interplay of gastritis phenotype and acid secretion are key determinants in disease outcomes. Corpus-predominant gastritis and corpus atrophy are accompanied by hypochlorhydria and carry the highest risk for gastric cancer, whereas antrum-predominant gastritis with little involvement of the corpus-fundic mucosa is associated with hyperchlorhydria and predisposes to duodenal ulcer disease.
Safety and Efficacy of Allogeneic Cell Therapy in Infarcted Rats Transplanted With Mismatched Cardiosphere-Derived Cells
Authors: Malliaras Konstantinos , Li Tao-Sheng , Luthringer Daniel , Terrovitis John , Cheng Ke , Chakravarty Tarun , Galang Giselle , Zhang Yiqiang , Schoenhoff Florian , Van Eyk Jennifer , Marbán Linda , Marbán Eduardo
Published: November 2011

Background—

Cardiosphere-derived cells (CDCs) are an attractive cell type for tissue regeneration, and autologous CDCs are being tested clinically. However, autologous therapy necessitates patient-specific tissue harvesting and cell processing, with delays to therapy and possible variations in cell potency. The use of allogeneic CDCs, if safe and effective, would obviate such limitations. We compared syngeneic and allogeneic CDC transplantation in rats from immunologically-mismatched inbred strains.

Methods and Results—

In vitro, CDCs expressed major histocompatibility complex class I but not class II antigens or B7 costimulatory molecules. In mixed-lymphocyte cocultures, allogeneic CDCs elicited negligible lymphocyte proliferation and inflammatory cytokine secretion. In vivo, syngeneic and allogeneic CDCs survived at similar levels in the infarcted rat heart 1 week after delivery, but few syngeneic (and even fewer allogeneic) CDCs remained at 3 weeks. Allogeneic CDCs induced a transient, mild, local immune reaction in the heart, without histologically evident rejection or systemic immunogenicity. Improvements in cardiac structure and function, sustained for 6 months, were comparable with syngeneic and allogeneic CDCs. Allogeneic CDCs stimulated endogenous regenerative mechanisms (cardiomyocyte cycling, recruitment of c-kit
+
cells, angiogenesis) and increased myocardial vascular endothelial growth factor, insulin-like growth factor-1, and hepatocyte growth factor equally with syngeneic CDCs.

Conclusions—

Allogeneic CDC transplantation without immunosuppression is safe, promotes cardiac regeneration, and improves heart function in a rat myocardial infarction model, mainly through stimulation of endogenous repair mechanisms. The indirect mechanism of action rationalizes the persistence of benefit despite the evanescence of transplanted cell survival. This work motivates the testing of allogeneic human CDCs as a potential off-the-shelf product for cellular cardiomyoplasty.
Small Irregular Ice Crystals in Tropical Cirrus
Authors: Nousiainen Timo , Lindqvist Hannakaisa , McFarquhar Greg M. , Um Junshik
Published: November 2011

Images acquired by a Cloud Particle Imager (CPI) are analyzed to compile a statistical covariance function of radius for an ensemble of small, irregular, quasi-spherical ice crystals in tropical cirrus measured during the Department of Energy Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program’s Tropical Warm Pool International Cloud Experiment. The infrequent occurrence of multiple particles in single CPI frames suggests that most crystals sampled were natural ice crystals rather than artifacts from large particles shattering on probe tips. The covariance function is used in conjunction with the Gaussian random sphere geometry to generate three-dimensional model ice particles for ray-optics simulations at 550-nm wavelength. The crystal shapes and single-scattering properties are compared with those obtained by the same methodology for midlatitude cirrus sampled over Oklahoma. The small tropical ice crystals are closer to spherical than their midlatitude counterparts and, consequently, their asymmetry parameters are larger, but the differences are not significant from the standpoint of climate studies. Because some quasi-spherical ice crystals seem partially faceted, a convex hull transformation is introduced that increases the asymmetry parameter from 0.785 to 0.808. Further modifying the covariance function to promote sixfold symmetry in the model crystals increases the asymmetry parameter to 0.818. The introduction of internal scatterers, such as air bubbles, has a larger impact, decreasing the asymmetry parameter by up to tens of percent, depending on their amount and characteristics. Unfortunately, no data are available to determine realistic values for the internal scatterers to assess their likely actual impact.
Virginity Loss and Pregnancy in U.S. and Dutch Teen Girl Magazines
Authors: Joshi Suchi P. , Peter Jochen , Valkenburg Patti M.
Published: November 2011

Using Hofstede’s cultural dimension of masculinity/femininity, this quantitative content analysis investigated the coverage of virginity loss (i.e., occurrence, tone, and association with negative consequences) and pregnancy (i.e., occurrence, tone, and negative consequence of sex) in 2,496 feature stories from all issues of three U.S. and three Dutch teen girl magazines from 2006 to 2008. Stories about virginity loss and pregnancy occurred equally often in the U.S. and Dutch magazines. Pregnancy was attached with a negative tone in both the United States and Dutch coverage. Virginity loss, however, was portrayed with a positive tone more often in the Dutch coverage than in the U.S. coverage. In addition, pregnancy was depicted as a negative consequence of sex more often in the U.S. coverage than in the Dutch coverage. Implications are discussed in terms of differences in adolescent sexual socialization in the United States and the Netherlands.
Role for Ion Transport in Porcine Vocal Fold Epithelial Defense to Acid Challenge
Authors: Erickson‐Levendoski Elizabeth , Sivasankar M. Preeti
Published: November 2011

Objective

The vocal fold epithelium is routinely exposed to gastric contents, including acid and pepsin, during laryngopharyngeal reflux events. The epithelium may possess intrinsic defenses to reflux. The first objective of the current study was to examine whether vocal fold epithelial ion transport is one potential mechanism of defense to gastric contents. The second objective was to determine whether ion transport in response to gastric contents is associated with the secretion of bicarbonate.

Study Design

Prospective design in excised porcine larynges.

Setting

Laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

Porcine vocal folds (N = 56) were exposed on the luminal surface to acid, pepsin, or sham challenges. Ion transport at baseline and following challenge exposure was measured using electrophysiological techniques. To examine specific ion transport mechanisms, vocal folds were pretreated with either a sodium channel blocker or bicarbonate channel blocker.

Results

Within 60 seconds of acid but not pepsin exposure, there was a significant increase in ion transport. This rapid increase in ion transport was transient and related to bicarbonate secretion.

Conclusion

The current data suggest that porcine vocal folds immediately increase bicarbonate secretion following exposure to acid. Bicarbonate secretion may act to neutralize acid. These findings contribute to the identification of the mechanisms underlying vocal fold defense to reflux and offer implications for the development of treatments for reflux‐induced vocal fold injury.
Silk–hyaluronan-based composite hydrogels: A novel, securable vehicle for drug delivery
Authors: Elia Roberto , Newhide Danny R , Pedevillano Paul D , Reiss G Russell , Firpo Matthew A , Hsu Edward W , Kaplan David L , Prestwich Glenn D , Peattie Robert A
Published: November 2011

A new, biocompatible hyaluronic acid (HA)–silk hydrogel composite was fabricated and tested for use as a securable drug delivery vehicle. The composite consisted of a hydrogel formed by cross-linking thiol–modified HA with poly(ethylene glycol)-diacrylate, within which was embedded a reinforcing mat composed of electrospun silk fibroin protein. Both HA and silk are biocompatible, selectively degradable biomaterials with independently controllable material properties. Mechanical characterization showed the composite tensile strength as fabricated to be 4.43 ± 2.87 kPa, two orders of magnitude above estimated tensions found around potential target organs. In the presence of hyaluronidase (HAse) in vitro, the rate of gel degradation increased with enzyme concentration although the reinforcing silk mesh was not digested. Composite gels demonstrated the ability to store and sustainably deliver therapeutic agents. Time constants for in vitro release of selected representative antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs varied from 46.7 min for cortisone to 418 min for hydrocortisone. This biocomposite showed promising mechanical characteristics for direct fastening to tissue and organs, as well as controllable degradation properties suitable for storage and release of therapeutically relevant drugs.
Rational incompetence
Authors: Jo Jinhee , Rothenberg Lawrence S.
Published: November 2011

When something goes awry in a governmental agency, a frequent claim is that appointed political heads are incompetent. If true, what explains this in a separation of powers system where the executive nominates and the legislature approves? Our analysis provides a rationale and conditions for rational incompetence. Specifically, we present a model in which a President nominates and the Senate confirms or rejects an appointee. Besides choosing a nominee’s ideology, the President can determine competence, with less competence meaning more policy outcome variance. Interestingly, without assuming that political actors are inherently risk takers, we identify conditions generating what Goemans and Fey (2009) have labeled institutionally-induced risk taking, where both the President and the relevant filibuster pivot propose and approve an incompetent administrator in equilibrium. Reasons for incompetence go beyond pure loyalty or patronage, and our model corresponds to contemporary cases of seemingly incompetent administration.
Issues of Ethics in Prenatal Diagnostics
Authors: Saburova Vera I.
Published: November 2011

Aspects of the current practice of prenatal diagnostics in Russia are surveyed. In the light of this, various ethical concerns are highlighted: (1) the requirement of parental informed consent to testing is not always sufficiently respected either in state regulation or in the practice of physicians; (2) not all Russian physicians are aware of international guidelines or standards of good practice in areas such as non-directive counselling, patient confidentiality with respect to genetic information and the patient’s right to maintain control over his or her information; (3) abortion is viewed increasingly as an aspect of preventive medicine.
Until the End Willed by God? Moral Theology and the Debate on ‘Euthanasia’
Authors: Jans Jan
Published: November 2011

This paper has two parts: in the first an analytical reading is offered of the various definitions of ‘euthanasia’ as used by the magisterium of the Roman Catholic Church concluding that they lack precision; in the second a moral theological reading is offered of the claim that because life is a gift of God, humans are not having the right to dispose of life themselves. As a result, the paper tries to show that the language of ‘ownership’ is unfitting for the ethical questions at hand.
Numerical study of the effect of the yield drop phenomenon on the deformation behaviour of a Taylor projectile
Authors: Munusamy Raguraman , Barton David C , Childs Tom H C
Published: November 2011

This article deals with the effects of parameters relating to the yield drop phenomenon on the deformation of Taylor projectiles. The numerical modelling approach performed using LS-DYNA was validated by considering a solid cylindrical projectile made of AA7010 aluminium alloy impacted against a massive, rigid target as described in the literature. Both the projectile and target were modelled using three-dimensional brick elements. A popular strain rate and temperature-dependent constitutive relation known as the Johnson–Cook model was used to represent the alloy projectile material behaviour, whilst the target plate was assumed to be rigid. A generally good agreement between test and numerical results was found. A steel projectile was then considered using a simple piecewise linear plasticity model which has provision for introducing the yield drop effect and in which temperature effects were ignored. The impact velocities varied from 200 to 1000 m/s. Significant influence of the yield drop on the deformation behaviour of the projectile at low impact velocities was found. However, the effect was far less significant at higher impact velocities (>400 m/s).
The Decision to Search
Authors: Fallik Seth W. , Novak Kenneth J.
Published: November 2011

This manuscript examines police officer decision making during automobile stops to determine whether Black and Hispanic drivers are searched at parity with nonminorities, with particular focus on officers’ legal authority to search and controlling for other explanatory factors. Using data collected by a large Midwestern police department, we observe Blacks are overrepresented among searches overall and among searches involving greater officer discretion to search. However, neither race nor ethnic effects were observed after introducing other explanatory variables into multivariate models, suggesting factors other than minority status provide greater understanding of officers’ decision making. Results indicate minorities are differentially involved in searches because police engage minorities under characteristics consistent with searches. This suggests that it is the social context of the stop, rather than the race or ethnicity of the driver, that primarily influences searches.
Development and evaluation of an agent-based model of sexual partnership
Authors: Knittel Andrea K , Riolo Rick L , Snow Rachel C
Published: November 2011

The agent-based model presented here builds on existing models, allowing for multiple partnerships, including those overlapping in time, to examine sexual partnerships, with the goal of hypothesis testing and guiding data collection. Within each model run, agents are assigned characteristics (including quality, aspiration, courtship duration, and ideal number of lifetime partners) and then search for partners; existing couples choose whether they should break up, remain dating, or become sexual partners. Model behavior was tested across a wide range of parameters and compared with empirical data. The model produces numbers of lifetime sexual partners, and partners in the last year, rates of concurrency, and relationship durations similar to nationally representative data from the United States; it also generates correlations in partners’ quality similar to those reported for marriage and dating partners. Model results highlight the importance of individual preferences, interactions between individuals, and contextual factors in sexual decision making.
One-dimensional model for the combined bending, stretching, shearing and torsion of rods derived from three-dimensional elasticity
Authors: Pruchnicki Erick
Published: November 2011

The displacement field in rods can be approximated by using a third-order Taylor–Young expansion in the transverse dimension of the rod. These involve that the highest-order term of shear is of first order in transverse dimension of the rod. Then we are motivated to consider a simplified theory based on the transverse-directions expansion of the potential energy truncated at fourth order in the transverse dimension of the rod. In the same way as Pruchnicki [1], the Euler–Lagrange equations are modified so as to be compatible with equilibrium equations. These lead to an analytical expression for one-dimensional potential energy in terms of the zeroth-order displacement field and its derivatives that includes non-standard transverse shearing energy and torsion energy. As a consequence this potential energy satisfies the stability condition of Legendre–Hadamard which is necessary for the existence of a minimizer. When the lateral surface of the rod is free of charge and body force is equal to zero, the minimization of the potential energy leads to a boundary value problem which can be integrated analytically.
Modulation of the central memory and Tr1-like regulatory T cells in multiple sclerosis patients responsive to interferon-beta therapy
Authors: Chiarini M , Serana F , Zanotti C , Capra R , Rasia S , Rottoli M , Rovaris M , Caputo D , Cavaletti G , Frigo M , Frigeni B , Clerici R , Rezzonico M , Caimi L , Imberti L
Published: November 2011

Background: Interferon-beta is used to reduce disease activity in multiple sclerosis, but its action is incompletely understood, individual treatment response varies among patients, and biological markers predicting clinical benefits have yet to be identified. Since it is known that multiple sclerosis patients have a deficit of the regulatory T-cell subsets, we investigated whether interferon-beta therapy induced modifications of the two main categories of regulatory T cells (Tregs), natural and IL-10-secreting inducible Tr1 subset, in patients who are biologically responsive to the therapy.

Methods: T-cell phenotype was determined by flow cytometry, while real-time PCR was used to evaluate interferon-beta bioactivity through MxA determination, and to measure the RNA for IL-10 and CD46 molecule in peripheral blood mononuclear cells stimulated with anti-CD46 and anti-CD3 monoclonal antibodies, which are known to expand a Tr1-like population.

Results: Interferon-beta induced a redistribution of natural Treg subsets with a shift of naive Tregs towards the ‘central memory-like’ Treg population that expresses the CCR7 molecule required for the in vivo suppressive activity. Furthermore, in a subgroup of treated patients, the CD46/CD3 co-stimulation, probably through the Tr1-like subset modulation, increased the production of RNA for IL-10 and CD46. The same group showed a lower median EDSS score after two years of therapy.

Conclusions: The selective increase of ‘central memory-like’ subset and the involvement of the Tr1-like population may be two of the mechanisms by which interferon-beta achieves its beneficial effects. The quantification of RNA for IL-10 and CD46 could be used to identify patients with a different response to interferon-beta therapy.