bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consumer Awareness of Salt and Sodium Reduction and Sodium Labeling
Authors: Kim M. K. , Lopetcharat K. , Gerard P. D. , Drake M. A.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Reduction of dietary sodium by reduction of sodium in foods is a current industry target. Quantitative information on consumer knowledge of sodium and reduction of dietary sodium is limited. The objectives of this study were to characterize consumer knowledge and awareness of sodium and salt reduction in foods. Consumers (n= 489) participated in a quantitative internet survey designed to gather knowledge and attitudes towards dietary sodium, sodium in foods, and health. Eating habits and food consumption characteristics, knowledge of salt and sodium, and interest in health and wellness were probed. Saltiness believe and sodium knowledge indices were calculated based on correct responses to salt levels in food products. Kano analysis was conducted to determine the role of nutrition labels and satisfaction/dissatisfaction of foods. Consumers were aware of the presence of sodium in “salty” foods, and that sodium was part of salt. People who had a family history of certain diseases associated with a higher intake of dietary sodium did not necessarily have more knowledge of the relationship between sodium intake and a specific disease compared to consumers with no family history. Sodium content on the food label panel did not influence consumer dissatisfaction; however, sodium content did not necessarily increase consumer product satisfaction either. The addition of a healthy nutrient (that is, whole grain, fiber) into a current food product was appealing to consumers. For nutrient labeling, a “reduced” claim was more appealing to consumers than a “free” claim for “unhealthy” nutrients such as fat, sodium, and sugar.

Practical Application:  This study demonstrated the current state of consumer knowledge on sodium and salt reduction, and consumer perception of the relationship between diets high in sodium and many chronic diseases. Information that may contribute to consumer satisfaction on nutrition panel labeling was also determined.
Oxidation Processes in Sicilian Olive Oils Investigated by a Combination of Optical and EPR Spectroscopy
Authors: Ricca Mariaelena , Foderà Vito , Vetri Valeria , Buscarino Gianpiero , Montalbano Maria , Leone Maurizio
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is recognized as one of the healthiest foods for its high content of antioxidants, which forestall and slow down radical formation. Free radical‐initiated oxidation is considered one of the main causes of rancidity in fats and oils. As a consequence, reliable protocols for the investigation of oil oxidation based on selective, noninvasive, and fast methods are highly desirable. Here we report an experimental approach based on UV‐Vis absorbance, steady‐state fluorescence, and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy for studying oxidation processes induced by temperature for a period up to 35 d on Sicilian EVOO samples. We followed the decrease in β‐carotene content during incubation time and observed changes in polyphenols and tocopherols during the oxidation processes, focusing on the time scale of those changes. Using EPR spectroscopy, the free radical formation in different oil samples is reported, providing a fingerprint for both the antioxidant content and temporal features of the oxidation process at its early stage.

Practical Application:  We monitor β‐carotene and chlorophyll in an auto‐oxidation process. A protocol based on spectroscopic measurements is presented and can be used for the quality control process of commercial olive oil.
Photokinetic, Biochemical and Structural Features of Chimeric Photoactive Yellow Protein Constructs
Authors: Kyndt John A. , Meyer Terry E. , Olson Kenneth T. , Van Beeumen Jozef , Cusanovich Michael A.
Published: September 2012

Of the 10 photoactive yellow protein (PYPs) that have been characterized, the two from Rhodobacter species are the only ones that have an additional intermediate spectral form in the resting state (λmax = 375 nm), compared to the prototypical Halorhodospira halophila PYP. We have constructed three chimeric PYP proteins by replacing the first 21 residues from the N‐terminus (Hyb1PYP), 10 from the β4–β5 loop (Hyb2PYP) and both (Hyb3PYP) in Hhal PYP with those from Rb. capsulatus PYP. The N‐terminal chimera behaves both spectrally and kinetically like Hhal PYP, indicating that the Rcaps N‐terminus folds against the core of Hhal PYP. A small fraction shows dimerization and slower recovery, possibly due to interaction at the N‐termini. The loop chimera has a small amount of the intermediate spectral form and a photocycle that is 20 000 times slower than Hhal PYP. The third chimera, with both regions exchanged, resembles Rcaps PYP with a significant amount of intermediate spectral form (λmax = 380 nm), but has even slower kinetics. The effects are not strictly additive in the double chimera, suggesting that what perturbs one site, affects the other as well. These chimeras suggest that the intermediate spectral form has its origins in overall protein stability and solvent exposure.
II. A Brief Introduction to the thought of Armando B. Ferrari
Authors: Carvalho Richard
Published: September 2012

This article is part of the series, The Body and Psychoanalysis: The Work and Influence of A. B. Ferrari, which include the following articles:

I. The Body in Psychoanalysis

Paolo Carignani

Vol.28, Issue 3, 288‐318, Article first published online: 21 AUG 2012

And

III. Anorexia and Bulimia: Two Aspects of Adolescence

Fausta Romano

Article first published online: 7 SEP 2012 | DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-0118.2012.01301.x
III. Anorexia and Bulimia: Two Aspects of Adolescence
Authors: Romano Fausta
Published: September 2012

This article is part of the series, The Body and Psychoanalysis: The Work and Influence of A. B. Ferrari, which include the following articles:

I. The Body in Psychoanalysis

Paolo Carignani

Vol.28, Issue 3, 288‐318, Article first published online: 21 AUG 2012

And

II. A Brief Introduction to the thought of Armando B. Ferrari

Richard Carvalho

Article first published online: 7 SEP 2012 | DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-0118.2012.01300.x
Management of flood hazard via hydro‐morphological river modelling. The case of the Mallero in Italian Alps
Authors: Radice A. , Rosatti G. , Ballio F. , Franzetti S. , Mauri M. , Spagnolatti M. , Garegnani G.
Published: September 2012

Flash‐flood events in mountain basins often involve large volumes of sediment transported by the rivers, with significant changes in the bed morphology even within a single, short‐term event. By contrast, flood scenarios are most frequently devised under the assumption of a fixed‐bed condition, that is, neglecting the possible change of the river bed elevation during the reference flood. In this work, feasibility and positive outcome of incorporating sediment transport modelling into the evaluation of flood hazard are assessed with reference to the case of the Mallero River in northern Italy. A past flood event has been modelled by means of a fully coupled model of flow and sediment transport. Particular attention has been focused onto the town of Sondrio, located at the downstream end of the river. Results show that interpretation of the event dynamics and proper quantification of flood hazard for the town cannot be obtained without considering the morphologic evolution of the river bed due to sediment transport. In addition, reliability of the results of hydro‐morphologic modelling has been proved by extensive sensitivity analysis, showing a weak dependence of the findings on external forcing. Some arguments are thus provided towards the incorporation of morphologic processes into hazard assessment, landscape protection, scenario modelling and emergency management.
High pressure versus standard port system: Comparison of implantation and complications
Authors: Plumhans Cédric , Ocklenburg Christina , Verburg Frederik A. , Günther Rolf W. , Behrendt Florian F.
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Completely implantable access ports for high pressure contrast media injection have been in use in clinical routine for a relatively short time. The purpose of our study was to compare a high pressure port system with a standard port system with regard to implantation and complications.

Methods

In 94 oncological patients a completely implantable access port was implanted. Patients (n = 49) planned for oncological follow‐up computed tomography (CT) received a high pressure port system. Other patients (n = 45) received a standard port system. Intrainterventional pain perception, postinterventional catheter tip migration and complications were analyzed.

Results

No major periinterventional complications occurred. Intrainterventional pain perception was not significantly different between the two groups. A significantly lower rate of tip migration was observed in the high pressure port group (P = 0.03) and when the port system was implanted on the right side (P = 0.03). In the standard port group catheter occlusion occurred in three patients (7%) and a catheter loop in one patient (2%) whereas no such complications occurred within the high pressure port group. Venous thrombosis was detected in one patient (2%) with a high pressure port; this did not occur in the standard port group.

Conclusions

Implantation and use of a high pressure port device is safe and reliable: the complications are comparable to those of a standard port device. High pressure port systems should be considered for implantation, especially in patients who will require frequent CTs.
T‐helper 17 cells: The driving force of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Yoo In Seol , Lee Jeung Hoon , Song Seung Tak , Kim Jin Hyun , Lee Hyun Ji , Kang Seong Wook
Published: September 2012

Aim

There is growing evidence that two recently recognized, unique subsets of CD4+ T‐cells, T‐helper 17 cells (Th17) and CD4+ CD25+ regulatory T‐cells (Treg), may play important roles in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. This study sought to investigate the relationship between Th17 cells and psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Methods

Peripheral blood CD4+ T‐cells were isolated from 47 patients with psoriasis and 47 controls, and were cultured under various stimulatory conditions. The Th17 cells and regulatory Treg cells were detected by flow cytometry. Plasma interleukin (IL)‐17 was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The proportion of Th17 and Treg cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells showed no difference between patients with psoriasis and controls. However, psoriasis and PsA patients demonstrated a higher proportion of induced Th17 cells, which was correlated with psoriasis area severity index score. The level of plasma IL‐17A in psoriasis was higher than that in controls.

Conclusion

Th17 cells may play important roles in the pathogenesis of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Musicality: Instinct or Acquired Skill?
Authors: Marcus Gary F.
Published: September 2012

Is the human tendency toward musicality better thought of as the product of a specific, evolved instinct or an acquired skill? Developmental and evolutionary arguments are considered, along with issues of domain‐specificity. The article also considers the question of why humans might be consistently and intensely drawn to music if musicality is not in fact the product of a specifically evolved instinct.
Explaining Embodied Cognition Results
Authors: Lakoff George
Published: September 2012

From the late 1950s until 1975, cognition was understood mainly as disembodied symbol manipulation in cognitive psychology, linguistics, artificial intelligence, and the nascent field of Cognitive Science. The idea of embodied cognition entered the field of Cognitive Linguistics at its beginning in 1975. Since then, cognitive linguists, working with neuroscientists, computer scientists, and experimental psychologists, have been developing a neural theory of thought and language (NTTL).

Central to NTTL are the following ideas: (a) we think with our brains, that is, thought is physical and is carried out by functional neural circuitry; (b) what makes thought meaningful are the ways those neural circuits are connected to the body and characterize embodied experience; (c) so‐called abstract ideas are embodied in this way as well, as is language. Experimental results in embodied cognition are seen not only as confirming NTTL but also explained via NTTL, mostly via the neural theory of conceptual metaphor.

Left behind more than three decades ago is the old idea that cognition uses the abstract manipulation of disembodied symbols that are meaningless in themselves but that somehow constitute internal “representations of external reality” without serious mediation by the body and brain. This article uniquely explains the connections between embodied cognition results since that time and results from cognitive linguistics, experimental psychology, computational modeling, and neuroscience.
Physiological and growth responses of switchgrass (Panicum virgatumL.) in native stands under passive air temperature manipulation
Authors: Hartman Jeffrey C. , Nippert Jesse B.
Published: September 2012

In the centralGreatPlains ofNorthAmerica, climate change predictions include increases in mean annual temperature of 1.5–5.5 °C by 2100. Ecosystem responses to increased temperatures are likely to be regulated by dominant plant species, such as the potential biofuel speciesPanicum virgatum(switchgrass) in the tallgrass prairie. To describe the potential physiological and whole‐plant responses of this species to future changes in air temperatures, we used louvered open‐sided chambers (louveredOSC; 1 × 1 m, adjustable height) to passively alter canopy temperature in native stands ofP. virgatumgrowing in tallgrass prairie at varying topographic positions (upland/lowland). The altered temperature treatment decreased daily mean temperatures by 1 °C and maximum temperatures by 4 °C inMay andJune, lowered daytime stomatal conductance and transpiration, decreased tiller density, increased specific leaf area, and delayed flowering. Among topographic contrasts, aboveground biomass, flowering tiller density, and tiller weight were greater in lowland sites compared to upland sites, with no temperature treatment interactions. Differences in biomass production responded more to topography than the altered temperature treatment, as soil water status varied considerably between topographic positions. These results indicate that while water availability as a function of topography was a strong driver of plant biomass, many leaf‐level physiological processes were responsive to the small decreases in daily mean and maximum temperature, irrespective of landscape position. The varying responses of leaf‐level gas exchange and whole‐plant growth ofP. virgatumin native stands to altered air temperature or topographic position illustrate that accurately forecasting yields forP. virgatumin mixed communities will require greater integration of physiological responses to simulated climate change (increased temperature) and resource availability over natural environmental gradients (soil moisture).
Synthetic polyploid production of Miscanthus sacchariflorus,Miscanthus sinensis, and Miscanthus x giganteus
Authors: Chae Won Byoung , Hong Sae J. , Gifford Justin M. , Lane Rayburn Albert , Widholm Jack M. , Juvik John A.
Published: September 2012

Plants from the genus Miscanthus are potential renewable sources of lignocellulosic biomass for energy production. A potential strategy for Miscanthus crop improvement involves interspecific manipulation of ploidy levels to generate superior germplasm and to circumvent reproductive barriers for the introduction of new genetic variation into core germplasm. Synthetic autotetraploid lines of Miscanthus sacchariflorus and Miscanthus sinensis, and autoallohexaploid Miscanthus x giganteus were produced in tissue culture from oryzalin treatments to seed‐ and immature inflorescence‐derived callus lines. This is the first report of the genome doubling of diploid M. sacchariflorus. Genome doubling of diploid M. sinensis, M. sacchariflorus, and triploid M. x giganteus to generate tetraploid and hexaploid lines was confirmed by stomata size, nuclear DNA content, and chromosome counts. A putative pentaploid line was also identified among the M. x giganteus synthetic polyploid lines by nuclear DNA content and chromosome counts. Comparisons of phenotypic performance of synthetic polyploid lines with their diploid and triploid progenitors in the greenhouse found species‐specific differences in plant tiller number, height, and flowering time among the doubled lines. Stem diameter tended to increase after polyploidization but there were no significant improvements in biomass traits. Under field conditions, M. x giganteus synthetic hexaploid lines showed greater phenotypic variation, in terms of plant height, stem diameter, and tiller number, than their progenitor lines. Production of synthetic autopolyploid lines displaying significant phenotypic variation suggests that ploidy manipulation can introduce useful genetic diversity in the limited Miscanthus germplasm currently available in the United States. The role of polyploidization in the evolution and breeding of the genus Miscanthus is discussed.
Role of iron replacement in the management of preoperative anemia
Authors: BISBE ELVIRA
Published: September 2012

Preoperative anemia is an independent risk factor for allogeneic blood transfusion in surgical procedures associated with moderate‐to‐high perioperative blood loss. Allogeneic blood transfusion and preoperative anemia have been independently associated with worse postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing major surgery. In addition, hematinic deficiency may blunt the recovery from postoperative anemia. Therefore, patients scheduled for major surgery can benefit from preoperative correction of absolute or functional iron deficiency. In both cases, intravenous (IV) iron is safe and effective for treating preoperative anemia, leading to a median hemoglobin increase of 1–3 g/dL in one month, depending of the type of surgery. The availability of new IV iron formulations allowing rapid administration of high single doses may reduce the number of treatment sessions, thus contributing to a wider use of IV iron as a blood‐saving strategy in surgical patients.
Lassa Fever in West Africa: Evidence for an Expanded Region of Endemicity
Authors: Sogoba N. , Feldmann H. , Safronetz D.
Published: September 2012

Lassa virus (LASV) is endemic in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia (known as the Mano River region) and Nigeria and Lassa fever cases from these countries are being reported annually. Recent investigations have found evidence for an expanded endemicity zone between the two known Lassa endemic regions indicating that LASV is more widely distributed throughout the Tropical Wooded Savanna ecozone in West Africa.
Flexibility of Mobile Laboratory Unit in Support of Patient Management During the 2007 Ebola‐Zaire Outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Grolla A. , Jones S. , Kobinger G. , Sprecher A. , Girard G. , Yao M. , Roth C. , Artsob H. , Feldmann H. , Strong J. E.
Published: September 2012

The mobile laboratory provides a safe, rapid and flexible platform to provide effective diagnosis of Ebola virus as well as additional differential diagnostic agents in remote settings of equatorial Africa. During the 2007 Democratic Republic of Congo outbreak of Ebola‐Zaire, the mobile laboratory was set up in two different locations by two separate teams within a day of equipment arriving in each location. The first location was in Mweka where our laboratory took over the diagnostic laboratory space of the local hospital, whereas the second location, approximately 50 km south near Kampungu at the epicentre of the outbreak, required local labour to fabricate a tent structure as a suitable pre‐existing structure was not available. In both settings, the laboratory was able to quickly set up, providing accurate and efficient molecular diagnostics (within 3 h of receiving samples) for 67 individuals, including four cases of Ebola, seven cases of Shigella and 13 cases of malaria. This rapid turn‐around time provides an important role in the support of patient management and epidemiological surveillance.
Emerging and Exotic Zoonotic Disease Preparedness and Response in the United States – Coordination of the Animal Health Component
Authors: Levings Randall L.
Published: September 2012

For the response to a zoonotic disease outbreak to be effective, animal health authorities and disease specialists must be involved. Animal health measures are commonly directed at known diseases that threaten the health of animals and impact owners. The measures have long been applied to zoonotic diseases, including tuberculosis and brucellosis, and can be applied to emerging diseases. One Health (veterinary, public, wildlife and environmental health) and all‐hazards preparedness work have done much to aid interdisciplinary understanding and planning for zoonotic diseases, although further improvements are needed. Actions along the prevention, preparedness, response and recovery continuum should be considered. Prevention of outbreaks consists largely of import controls on animals and animal products and biosecurity. Preparedness includes situational awareness, research, tool acquisition, modelling, training and exercises, animal movement traceability and policy development. Response would include detection systems and specialized personnel, institutions, authorities, strategies, methods and tools, including movement control, depopulation and vaccination if available and appropriate. The specialized elements would be applied within a general (nationally standardized) system of response. Recovery steps begin with continuity of business measures during the response and are intended to restore pre‐event conditions. The surveillance for novel influenza A viruses in swine and humans and the preparedness for and response to the recent influenza pandemic illustrate the cooperation possible between the animal and public health communities.
6th International Conference on Emerging Zoonoses
Authors: Kahn R. E. , Morozov I. , Feldmann H. , Richt J. A.
Published: September 2012

The 6th International Conference on Emerging Zoonoses, held at Cancun, Mexico, 24–27 February 2011, offered 84 participants from 18 countries, a snapshot of current research in numerous zoonoses caused by viruses, bacteria or prions. Co‐chaired by Professors Heinz Feldmann and Jürgen Richt, the conference explored 10 topics: (i) The ecology of emerging zoonotic diseases; (ii) The role of wildlife in emerging zoonoses; (iii) Cross‐species transmission of zoonotic pathogens; (iv) Emerging and neglected influenza viruses; (v) Haemorrhagic fever viruses; (vi) Emerging bacterial diseases; (vii) Outbreak responses to zoonotic diseases; (viii) Food‐borne zoonotic diseases; (ix) Prion diseases; and (x) Modelling and prediction of emergence of zoonoses. Human medicine, veterinary medicine and environmental challenges are viewed as a unity, which must be considered under the umbrella of ‘One Health’. Several presentations attempted to integrate the insights gained from field data with mathematical models in the search for effective control measures of specific zoonoses. The overriding objective of the research presentations was to create, improve and use the tools essential to address the risk of contagions in a globalized society. In seeking to fulfil this objective, a three‐step approach has often been applied: (i) use cultured cells, model and natural animal hosts and human clinical models to study infection; (ii) combine traditional histopathological and biochemical approaches with functional genomics, proteomics and computational biology; and (iii) obtain signatures of virulence and insights into mechanisms of host defense response, immune evasion and pathogenesis. This meeting review summarizes 39 of the conference presentations and mentions briefly the 16 articles in this Special Supplement, most of which were presented at the conference in earlier versions. The full affiliations of all presenters and many colleagues have been included to facilitate further inquiries from readers.
Diagnostic accuracy of electrophoretic analysis of native or defribrinated plasma using serum as a reference sample
Authors: Errico Giorgia , Giordano Alessia , Paltrinieri Saverio
Published: September 2012

Background

Electrophoretic analysis of plasma may provide inaccurate results unless plasma is defibrinated with ethanol.

Objective

The aim of this study, conducted following the Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy (STARD), was to determine whether cellulose acetate (CAE), agarose gel (AGE), and capillary zone (CZE) electrophoresis of native plasma (NP) and defibrinated plasma (DP) provided the same information as serum electrophoretograms.

Methods

Serum, NP, and DP electrophoretograms obtained using the 3 methods were examined visually by 3 observers to identify changes in globulin fractions and provide diagnostic interpretations. Using serum analysis as the reference method, sensitivity, specificity, and positive likelihood ratio of NP and DP electrophoretograms to identify abnormal globulin profiles were calculated.

Results

Specimens from 46 dogs were analyzed. Albumin and α1‐ and γ‐globulin fractions were lower and β2‐globulin fractions higher in NP than in serum and DP. Interpretations of NP electrophoretograms were the same as for serum in 54.8% (CAE), 51.2% (AGE), and 51.6% (CZE), revealed an increased β‐globulin fraction in 32.3–41.5%, and resulted in misinterpretation, especially for CZE analysis, in 4.7–16.1% of the dogs; all dogs with abnormal serum electrophoretograms were identified correctly using NP. Analysis of DP was similar to serum analysis in about 2/3 of the dogs. In the others, defibrination did not resolve spurious plasma findings or induced additional changes. Up to 75 and 27% of NP and DP electrophoretograms, respectively, were abnormal in dogs with normal serum electrophoretograms. Sensitivity for NP and DP analysis was high, but specificity for NP was poor.

Conclusions

Analysis of NP provides the same information as serum analysis in > 50% of cases, and, despite low specificity, could preliminarily exclude the presence of abnormalities when only plasma is available. If electrophoretograms are not normalized by defibrination, electrophoretic abnormalities are likely present, and electrophoresis should be repeated using serum.
Reconnecting Proficiency, Literacy, and Culture: From Theory to Practice
Authors: Warford Mark K. , White William L.
Published: September 2012

What does it mean to capably communicate across languages? This article introduces two theoretical models and a lesson plan format designed to facilitate the integration of proficiency, literacy, and culture teaching in foreign language teaching. The Second Symbolic Competencies Model configures proficiency and literacy as subordinate clusters of symbolic tools that flow from a cultural core. With regard to the literacy corner of the triad, the Composite Textual Comprehension Model focuses on the often neglected mistransference of learners’ first language and culture in interpreting second language texts. Both models find congruence in the Sociocultural Model Lesson Plan.
Protective effects of captopril in diabetic rats exposed to ischemia/reperfusion renal injury
Authors: Fouad Amr A , Al-Mulhim Abdulruhman S , Jresat Iyad , Morsy Mohamed A
Published: September 2012

Objectives

To investigate the potential protective effects of captopril, the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor, in diabetic rats exposed to ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) renal injury.

Methods

Following successful induction of diabetes, captopril treatment (50 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was applied for 4 weeks, after which bilateral renal ischaemia was induced for 30 min followed by reperfusion for 24 h.

Results

Captopril significantly attenuated hyperglycaemia and hypoinsulinaemia in diabetic rats, and significantly reduced the elevations of serum creatinine and aldosterone levels, and renal malondialdehyde, tumour necrosis factor-α and nitric oxide (NO), and prevented the depletion of reduced glutathione caused by I/R in diabetic rats. Histopathological renal tissue damage induced by I/R in diabetic rats was ameliorated by captopril treatment. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that captopril significantly attenuated the reduction of insulin content in pancreatic islet β-cells, and decreased the I/R-induced expression of inducible NO synthase, nuclear factor-κB, Fas ligand and caspase-3, and increased the expression of survivin and heme oxygenase-1 in the kidney tissue of diabetic rats.

Conclusions

Captopril represents a potential candidate to reduce the risk of renal injury induced by ischaemia/reperfusion in type 2 diabetes.
Transcriptome analysis of long non‐coding RNAs of the nucleus accumbens in cocaine‐conditioned mice
Authors: Bu Qian , Hu Zhengtao , Chen Feng , Zhu Ruiming , Deng Yi , Shao Xue , Li Yan , Zhao Jinxuan , Li Hongyu , Zhang Baolai , Lv Lei , Yan Guangyan , Zhao Yinglan , Cen Xiaobo
Published: September 2012

Cocaine dependence involves in the brain's reward circuit as well as nucleus accumbens (NAc), a key region of the mesolimbic dopamine pathway. Many studies have documented altered expression of genes and identified transcription factor networks and epigenetic processes that are fundamental to cocaine addiction. However, all these investigations have focused on mRNA of encoding genes, which may not always reflect the involvement of long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which has been implied in a broad range of biological processes and complex diseases including brain development and neuropathological process. To explore the potential involvement of lncRNAs in drug addiction, which is viewed as a form of aberrant neuroplasticity, we used a custom‐designed microarray to examine the expression profiles of mRNAs and lncRNAs in brain NAc of cocaine‐conditioned mice and identified 764 mRNAs, and 603 lncRNAs were differentially expressed. Candidate lncRNAs were identified for further genomic context characterization as sense‐overlap, antisense‐overlap, intergenic, bidirection, and ultra‐conserved region encoding lncRNAs. We found that 410 candidate lncRNAs which have been reported to act in cis or trans to their targeted loci, providing 48 pair mRNA‐lncRNAs. These results suggest that the modification of mRNAs expression by cocaine may be associated with the actions of lncRNAs. Taken together, our results show that cocaine can cause the genome‐wide alterations of lncRNAs expressed in NAc, and some of these modified RNA transcripts may to play a role in cocaine‐induced neural plasticity and addiction.
A comprehensive study on long‐term injury to nigral dopaminergic neurons following intracerebroventricular injection of lipopolysaccharide in rats
Authors: Zhou Yan , Zhang Yanxin , Li Junquan , Lv Fengyue , Zhao Yongmei , Duan Deyi , Xu Qunyuan
Published: September 2012

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by selective and progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can induce chronic inflammation and has been widely used to study the pathogenesis of PD. In this study, a single intracerebroventricular injection of LPS was used to induce neurotoxic effects on dopaminergic neurons in Sprague–Dawley rats. The long‐term neurotoxic effects of LPS were evaluated at different time points. Microglia were activated in the hippocampus and striatum at 4 weeks, and in the SN at 24 weeks. Astrocytes were activated in the hippocampus and nigrostriatal system at 2 and 24 weeks. The expression of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor in the SN increased at 4 weeks and decreased after 12 weeks, and tyrosine hydroxylase‐positive neurons in the SN were shown to have an atrophic appearance, with cell loss evident after 24 weeks. Phospho‐α‐synuclein expression, a reflection of parkinsonian pathogenesis, increased at 12 weeks, and peaked at 24 weeks. Abnormal motor behavior appeared at 16 weeks and lasted up to 48 weeks. These results indicate that microglia are activated for several months after a single, low dose injection of LPS, which eventually results in progressive and selective damage to dopaminergic neurons in the SN.
The distribution and expression of S100A8 and S100A9 in gingival epithelium of mice
Authors: Nishii K. , Usui M. , Yamamoto G. , Yajima S. , Tsukamoto Y. , Tanaka J. , Tachikawa T. , Yamamoto M.
Published: September 2012

Objective and Background

Gingival epithelium protects against bacterial infection by producing antimicrobial peptides such as calprotectin. Calprotectin consists of proteins S100A8 and S100A9. Although in vitro assay has shown that neutrophils and gingival epithelial cells express calprotectin, the expression of S100A8 and S100A9 and colocalization of both S100 proteins in gingival tissue in vivo are not fully understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the distribution of S100A8 and S100A9 expression in gingival epithelium of mice in the presence and absence of infection.

Materials and Methods

A quantitative analysis of S100A8 and S100A9 mRNA in junctional epithelium (JE) and oral gingival epithelium (OGE) of both germ‐free mice and conventional mice was performed using laser microdissection and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Confirmation of S100A8 and S100A9 mRNA expression in the JE was conducted by fluorescent immunohistochemistry.

Results

Real‐time PCR analysis indicated that S100A8 and S100A9 expressions were mainly detected in JE and only slightly or not detected in OGE. Levels of both S100A8 and S100A9 mRNA expression in JE of conventional mice were significantly higher than those in JE of germ‐free mice. Additionally, fluorescent immunohistochemistry showed that S100A8 expression was observed in the JE of both conventional and germ‐free mice, whereas S100A9 was expressed in the JE of conventional but not germ‐free mice.

Conclusion

S100A8 protein is expressed in JE cells of mice in the presence and in the absence of infection with oral bacteria. S100A9 expression in JE cells in the presence of microflora is significantly increased compared with the absence of microflora, which suggests that S100A9 expression may be induced by infection of microflora. The production of calprotectin in gingival epithelial cells may be mediated through S100A9 induction by bacterial infection.
New secreted toxins and immunity proteins encoded within the Type VI secretion system gene cluster of Serratia marcescens
Authors: English Grant , Trunk Katharina , Rao Vincenzo A. , Srikannathasan Velupillai , Hunter William N. , Coulthurst Sarah J.
Published: September 2012

Protein secretion systems are critical to bacterial virulence and interactions with other organisms. The Type VI secretion system (T6SS) is found in many bacterial species and is used to target either eukaryotic cells or competitor bacteria. However, T6SS‐secreted proteins have proven surprisingly elusive. Here, we identified two secreted substrates of the antibacterial T6SS from the opportunistic human pathogen, Serratia marcescens. Ssp1 and Ssp2, both encoded within the T6SS gene cluster, were confirmed as antibacterial toxins delivered by the T6SS. Four related proteins encoded around the Ssp proteins (‘Rap’ proteins) included two specifically conferring self‐resistance (‘immunity’) against T6SS‐dependent Ssp1 or Ssp2 toxicity. Biochemical characterization revealed specific, tight binding between cognate Ssp–Rap pairs, forming complexes of 2:2 stoichiometry. The atomic structures of two Rap proteins were solved, revealing a novel helical fold, dependent on a structural disulphide bond, a structural feature consistent with their functional localization. Homologues of the Serratia Ssp and Rap proteins are found encoded together within other T6SS gene clusters, thus they represent founder members of new families of T6SS‐secreted and cognate immunity proteins. We suggest that Ssp proteins are the original substrates of the S. marcescens T6SS, before horizontal acquisition of other T6SS‐secreted toxins. Molecular insight has been provided into how pathogens utilize antibacterial T6SSs to overcome competitors and succeed in polymicrobial niches.
Vitamin D: a clinical perspective
Authors: Halpern Allan C.
Published: September 2012

Vitamin D has been the focus of considerable recent scientific study and media attention because of a growing appreciation of its potential importance in extra‐skeletal health. This ‘Perspective’ presents data supporting the viewpoint that physicians should not routinely test vitamin D levels in the general population but should routinely endorse vitamin D supplementation at levels recommended by the Institute of Medicine. It further reasons that it is unadvisable to recommend intentional limited sun exposure as a source of vitamin D.
Novel seed coat lignins in the Cactaceae: structure, distribution and implications for the evolution of lignin diversity
Authors: Chen Fang , Tobimatsu Yuki , Jackson Lisa , Nakashima Jin , Ralph John , Dixon Richard A.
Published: September 2012

We have recently described a hitherto unsuspected catechyl lignin polymer (C‐lignin) in the seed coats of Vanilla orchid and in cacti of one genus, Melocactus (Chen et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA. 2012, 109, 1772‐1777.). We have now determined the lignin types in the seed coats of 130 different cactus species. Lignin in the vegetative tissues of cacti is of the normal guaiacyl/syringyl (G/S) type, but members of most genera within the subfamily Cactoidae possess seed coat lignin of the novel C‐type only, which we show is a homopolymer formed by endwise β–O–4‐coupling of caffeyl alcohol monomers onto the growing polymer resulting in benzodioxane units. However, the species examined within the genera Coryphantha, Cumarinia, Escobaria and Mammillaria (Cactoideae) mostly had normal G/S lignin in their seeds, as did all six species in the subfamily Opuntioidae that were examined. Seed coat lignin composition is still evolving in the Cactaceae, as seeds of one Mammillaria species (M. lasiacantha) possess only C‐lignin, three Escobaria species (E. dasyacantha, E. lloydii and E. zilziana) contain an unusual lignin composed of 5‐hydroxyguaiacyl units, the first report of such a polymer that occurs naturally in plants, and seeds of some species contain no lignin at all. We discuss the implications of these findings for the mechanisms that underlie the biosynthesis of these newly discovered lignin types.
Comprehensive Application of a First Principles Based Methodology for Design of Axial Compressor Configurations
Authors: Iyengar Vishwas , Sankar Lakshmi N.
Published: September 2012

Axial compressors are widely used in many aerodynamic applications. The design of an axial compressor configuration presents many challenges. It is necessary to retool the design methodologies to take advantage of the improved accuracy and physical fidelity of these advanced methods. Here, a first-principles based multiobjective technique for designing single stage compressors is described. The study accounts for stage aerodynamic characteristics and rotor-stator interactions. The proposed methodology provides a way to systematically screen through the plethora of design variables. This method has been applied to a rotor-stator stage similar to NASA Stage 35. By selecting the most influential design parameters and by optimizing the blade leading edge and trailing edge mean camber line angles, phenomena such as tip blockages, blade-to-blade shock structures and other loss mechanisms can be weakened or alleviated. It is found that these changes to the configuration can have a beneficial effect on total pressure ratio and stage adiabatic efficiency, thereby improving the performance of the axial compression system.
Historical development and future trends of vacuum electronics
Authors: Gaertner Georg
Published: September 2012

Vacuum electronics (VE) have dominated development and industrial growth in their application areas from the end of the 19th century to the end of 20th century. VE have contributed to basic concepts of physics and have enabled important basic inventions. Despite this bright past, in the meantime also a complete or partial replacement by new technologies such as solid-state electronics (SSE) occurred in several applications areas, triggered by the demand for new features and leading to new applications. Based on a review of the historical development of vacuum electronics from the basic inventions to the modern state of the art, the aim of this paper is to identify future trends and prospects of this field. The appearance of generic technology cycles, as in the case of radio-receiving tubes and cathode-ray display tubes, is discussed. Microwave tubes did experience only a partial replacement by solid-state devices and defended the high-power, high-frequency domain. The reason for their superiority in this domain is discussed. The development of the base technologies for VE, namely vacuum technology and electron source technology, is outlined, enabling further improvements. Besides the high-power, high-frequency domain of microwave tubes, VE technology applications with positive future prospects are addressed, e.g., space applications (long-lived microwave tubes, ion thrusters); thermionic energy converters; e-beam lithography; x-ray tubes; vacuum-based high-resolution characterization, and high-brightness beams for free electron lasers or particle accelerators. The continuous growth and increase in performance of solid-state electronics is shortly reviewed, SSE taking the lead with respect to total sales in the 1980s. Now, despite inherent advantages, solid-state electronics also seem to approach technical limitations. These include increasing energy consumption in conjunction with reduced long-term reliability when further scaling down. It is envisioned that vacuum nanoelectronics can help to overcome these limitations when scaling down feature sizes of integrated circuits below 22 nm.
Template-assisted assembly of ZnO nanorods with postdeposition growth
Authors: Lee Tao-Hua , Sue Hung-Jue , Cheng Xing
Published: September 2012

The authors demonstrate a simple and fast method to grow ZnO nanorod arrays (NRAs) on patterned seed layer through low temperature solution growth. Spatial organization of nanorods was controlled by poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) template patterned by nanoimprint lithography. For vertical growth of ZnO NRAs, the striped PMMA film placed above the ZnO seed layer restrained the growth of nanorods due to the inhibited contact between nucleation sites and nutrients. For horizontal growth of ZnO NRAs, postdeposition growth increases the diameter and length of the ZnO nanorods; thus improving the inter-rod connectivity of the self-assembled nanorods. The versatile all-solution manipulation of ZnO NRAs at low temperature using polymer templates patterned by nanoimprint presents a facile route toward practical electronic and optoelectronic applications of one-dimensional ZnO nanostructures.
Can Like Charges Attract Each Other?
Authors: Balta Nuri
Published: September 2012

Electroscopes are sensitive instruments useful for investigations of static electricity. They are devices that are used for detecting whether an object is charged or uncharged. They also determine the type of charge. Their operation is based on the principle of like sign charge repulsion.
Near-Field Imaging with Sound: An Acoustic STM Model
Authors: Euler Manfred
Published: September 2012

The invention of scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) 30 years ago opened up a visual window to the nano-world and sparked off a bunch of new methods for investigating and controlling matter and its transformations at the atomic and molecular level.1 However, an adequate theoretical understanding of the method is demanding; STM images can be considered quantum theory condensed into a pictorial representation. A hands-on model is presented for demonstrating the imaging principles in introductory teaching. It uses sound waves and computer visualization to create mappings of acoustic resonators. The macroscopic simile is made possible by quantum-classical analogies between matter and sound waves. Grounding STM in acoustic experience may help to make the underlying quantum concepts such as tunneling less abstract to students.
Tumbling: From Rally Cars to Toast
Authors: Belloni Mario , Christian Wolfgang
Published: September 2012

The article1 by Rod Cross describing the translational and rotational motion of the “Launch of a Vehicle from a Ramp” motivated us to create two computer models showing this type of dynamical behavior.
Approximate Value of Buoyant Force: A Water-Filled Balloon Demonstration
Authors: Radovanovic Jelena , Slisko Josip
Published: September 2012

Floating and sinking might be common phenomena, encountered on a daily basis, but still represent conceptually complex scientific topics. Research has shown that most students have certain experiences and their own “theories” that explain why objects sink or float. Unfortunately, many of these “theories” are either misconceptions or are valid only under specific circumstances, lacking the generality of proper scientific explanations.1 Complete understanding of fundamental reasons behind objects' sinking or floating requires complex knowledge, including the analysis of the relationship between buoyancy and the force of gravity.
Improving word recognition in noise among hearing-impaired subjects with a single-channel cochlear noise-reduction algorithm
Authors: Fink Nir , Furst Miriam , Muchnik Chava
Published: September 2012

A common complaint of the hearing impaired is the inability to understand speech in noisy environments even with their hearing assistive devices. Only a few single-channel algorithms have significantly improved speech intelligibility in noise for hearing-impaired listeners. The current study introduces a cochlear noise reduction algorithm. It is based on a cochlear representation of acoustic signals and real-time derivation of a binary speech mask. The contribution of the algorithm for enhancing word recognition in noise was evaluated on a group of 42 normal-hearing subjects, 35 hearing-aid users, 8 cochlear implant recipients, and 14 participants with bimodal devices. Recognition scores of Hebrew monosyllabic words embedded in Gaussian noise at several signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs) were obtained with processed and unprocessed signals. The algorithm was not effective among the normal-hearing participants. However, it yielded a significant improvement in some of the hearing-impaired subjects under different listening conditions. Its most impressive benefit appeared among cochlear implant recipients. More than 20% improvement in recognition score of noisy words was obtained by 12, 16, and 26 hearing-impaired at SNR of 30, 24, and 18 dB, respectively. The algorithm has a potential to improve speech intelligibility in background noise, yet further research is required to improve its performances.
The role of envelope statistics in detecting changes in interaural correlation
Authors: Goupell Matthew J.
Published: September 2012

The role of envelope statistics in binaural masking-level differences (BMLDs) and correlation change detection was investigated in normal-hearing listeners. Thresholds and just-noticeable differences (JNDs) were measured for different bandwidths and center frequencies (500, 2000, 4000, and 8000 Hz) using Gaussian noises (GNs) and low-fluctuation noises (LFNs). At a 500-Hz center frequency, GN NoSo thresholds were higher than, NoSπ thresholds were lower than, and correlation change detection JNDs were the same as LFN thresholds and JNDs. At higher center frequencies, GN NoSπ thresholds were the same or higher than LFN thresholds and GN correlation change detection JNDs were much smaller than LFN JNDs. Using a pulsed sine vocoder, a second experiment was performed to investigate if binaural adaptation might contribute to the difference in GN and LFN detection. There was no effect of pulse rate, thus providing no clear evidence that binaural adaptation plays a role in these tasks. Both a cross-correlation model and a model that utilized the fluctuations in the interaural differences could explain a majority of the variance in the LFN correlation change JNDs.