bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant‐based FRET biosensor discriminates environmental zinc levels
Authors: Adams Joshua P. , Adeli Ardeshir , Hsu Chuan‐Yu , Harkess Richard L. , Page Grier P. , dePamphilis Claude W. , Schultz Emily B. , Yuceer Cetin
Published: September 2011

Heavy metal accumulation in the environment poses great risks to flora and fauna. However, monitoring sites prone to accumulation poses scale and economic challenges. In this study, we present and test a method for monitoring these sites using fluorescent resonance energy transfer (FRET) change in response to zinc (Zn) accumulation in plants as a proxy for environmental health. We modified a plant Zn transport protein by adding flanking fluorescent proteins (FPs) and deploying the construct into two different species. In Arabidopsis thaliana, FRET was monitored by a confocal microscope and had a 1.4‐fold increase in intensity as the metal concentration increased. This led to a 16.7% overall error‐rate when discriminating between a control (1 μm Zn) and high (10 mm Zn) treatment after 96 h. The second host plant (Populus tremula × Populu salba) also had greater FRET values (1.3‐fold increase) when exposed to the higher concentration of Zn, while overall error‐rates were greater at 22.4%. These results indicate that as plants accumulate Zn, protein conformational changes occur in response to Zn causing differing interaction between FPs. This results in greater FRET values when exposed to greater amounts of Zn and monitored with appropriate light sources and filters. We also demonstrate how this construct can be moved into different host plants effectively including one tree species. This chimeric protein potentially offers a method for monitoring large areas of land for Zn accumulation, is transferable among species, and could be modified to monitor other specific heavy metals that pose environmental risks.
THE PUBLIC/PRIVATE SECTOR CLEAVAGE REVISITED: THE IMPACT OF GOVERNMENT EMPLOYMENT ON POLITICAL ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIOUR IN 11 WEST EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
Authors: TEPE MARKUS
Published: September 2011

This study explores a refined model of public/private sector cleavage voting. Assuming that market and work experiences are crucial for people to develop common political views, it investigates three contexts that shape government employees' willingness to vote as a single constituency: the branch of public sector production, the occupational status, and the type of service economy. Estimation results obtained from regressions on European Social Survey (ESS) data indicate that government employees in public health, education and service production rather than public administration utilize sector cleavage voting. Regardless of their actual occupational status, public health and education employees show persistently stronger attitudes in favour of expanding state responsibility. With respect to party choice, stronger signs of alignment along the sector cleavage are observed in Social Democratic service economies. In sum, the public/private sector cleavage continues to matter in a more complex way than a simple sector dichotomy would suggest.
Does Firm Size make a Difference? Analysing the Effectiveness of R&D Subsidies in East Germany
Authors: Alecke Björn , Reinkowski Janina , Mitze Timo , Untiedt Gerhard
Published: September 2011

We analyse the impact of public subsidies on private sector research and development (R&D) activity for a sample of East German firms. Using propensity score matching, our empirical results indicate that subsidized firms indeed show a higher level of R&D intensity (R&D expenditures relative to total turnover) and a higher probability for patent application compared with non-subsidized firms. We find that, on average, the R&D intensity increases from 1.5% to 3.9%. The probability of patent application rises from 20% to 40%. These results closely match earlier empirical findings for East Germany. Given the fact that the East German innovation system is particularly driven by small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), we draw special attention to the effectiveness of R&D subsidies for this latter subgroup. Here, no specific empirical evidence is available so far. Our findings indicate that policy effectiveness also holds for private R&D activity of SMEs, with the highest increase in terms of R&D intensity being estimated for microbusinesses with up to ten employees.
Inflammasome activation and IL‐1β/IL‐18 processing are influenced by distinct pathways in microglia
Authors: Hanamsagar Richa , Torres Victor , Kielian Tammy
Published: September 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 736–748.

Microglia are important innate immune effectors against invading CNS pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), a common etiological agent of brain abscesses typified by widespread inflammation and necrosis. The NLRP3 inflammasome is a protein complex involved in IL‐1β and IL‐18 processing following exposure to both pathogen‐ and danger‐associated molecular patterns. Although previous studies from our laboratory have established that IL‐1β is a major cytokine product of S. aureus‐activated microglia and is pivotal for eliciting protective anti‐bacterial immunity during brain abscess development, the molecular machinery responsible for cytokine release remains to be determined. Therefore, the functional role of the NLRP3 inflammasome and its adaptor protein apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein (ASC) in eliciting IL‐1β and IL‐18 release was examined in primary microglia. Interestingly, we found that IL‐1β, but not IL‐18 production, was significantly attenuated in both NLRP3 and ASC knockout microglia following exposure to live S. aureus. NLRP3 inflammasome activation was partially dependent on autocrine/paracrine ATP release and α‐ and γ‐hemolysins produced by live bacteria. A cathepsin B inhibitor attenuated IL‐β release from NLRP3 and ASC knockout microglia, demonstrating the existence of alternative inflammasome‐independent mechanisms for IL‐1β processing. In contrast, microglial IL‐18 secretion occurred independently of cathepsin B and inflammasome action. Collectively, these results demonstrate that microglial IL‐1β processing is regulated by multiple pathways and diverges from mechanisms utilized for IL‐18 cleavage. Understanding the molecular events that regulate IL‐1β production is important for modulating this potent proinflammatory cytokine during CNS disease.
TRUE IDENTITY OF THE EUROPEAN FRESHWATER ULVA (CHLOROPHYTA, ULVOPHYCEAE) REVEALED BY A COMBINED MOLECULAR AND MORPHOLOGICAL APPROACH1
Authors: Mareš Jan , Leskinen Elina , Sitkowska Małgorzata , Skácelová Olga , Blomster Jaanika
Published: September 2011

A set of 18 freshwater and morphologically similar marine samples of Ulva were collected from inland and coastal waters throughout Europe to assess their taxonomic identity and invasive potential. An additional 11 specimens were obtained from herbaria. The material was studied using a combination of classical morphological methods and molecular techniques; the latter included sequencing of the nuclear internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region (ITS1‐5.8S‐ITS2) and the chloroplast RUBISCO LSU (rbcL) gene and comparison of the ITS2 secondary structure predictions. Based on classical methods, all the specimens could be determined as U. flexuosa Wulfen and could be further divided into three groups matching three infraspecific taxa. This pattern was generally well supported by molecular phylogenetic analyses. All sequenced samples formed a monophyletic lineage within Ulva, showing a putative synapomorphy in the ITS2 secondary structure. The individual subspecies corresponded to phylogenetic clusters within this lineage. In freshwater habitats, the dominant taxon was U. flexuosa subsp. pilifera, but subsp. paradoxa was also occasionally recorded. In marine habitats, only U. flexuosa subsp. flexuosa and subsp. paradoxa were located. These findings support the view that U. flexuosa subsp. pilifera is primarily a freshwater alga that probably dominates in Europe. As confirmed by the study of herbarium specimens, U. flexuosa should be regarded as indigenous, although it has a tendency to form blooms under certain conditions. Besides clarifying the identity of prevailing European freshwater Ulva, the study provides novel data concerning the distribution and morphological plasticity within the U. flexuosa complex.
N‐ACYL HOMOSERINE LACTONe LACTONASE, AiiA, INACTIVATION OF QUORUM‐SENSING AGONISTS PRODUCED BY CHLAMYDOMONAS REINHARDTII (CHLOROPHYTA) AND CHARACTERIZATION OF aiiA TRANSGENIC ALGAE1
Authors: Rajamani Sathish , Teplitski Max , Kumar Anil , Krediet Cory J. , Sayre Richard T. , Bauer Wolfgang D.
Published: September 2011

Eukaryotes such as plants and the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii P. A. Dang. produce and secrete compounds that mimic N‐acyl homoserine lactone (AHL) bacterial quorum‐sensing (QS) signals and alter QS‐regulated gene expression in the associated bacteria. Here, we show that the set of C. reinhardtii signal‐mimic compounds that activate the CepR AHL receptor of Burkholderia cepacia are susceptible to inactivation by AiiA, an AHL lactonase enzyme of Bacillus. Inactivation of these algal mimics by AiiA suggests that the CepR‐stimulatory class of mimics produced by C. reinhardtii may have a conserved lactone ring structure in common with AHL QS signals. To examine the role of AHL mimic compounds in the interactions of C. reinhardtii with bacteria, the aiiA gene codon optimized for Chlamydomonas was generated for the expression of AiiA as a chimeric fusion with cyan fluorescent protein (AimC). Culture filtrates of transgenic strains expressing the fusion protein AimC had significantly reduced levels of CepR signal‐mimic activities. When parental and transgenic algae were cultured with a natural pond water bacterial community, a morphologically distinct, AHL‐producing isolate of Aeromonas veronii was observed to colonize the transgenic algal cultures and form biofilms more readily than the parental algal cultures, indicating that secretion of the CepR signal mimics by the alga can significantly affect its interactions with bacteria it encounters in natural environments. The parental alga was also able to sequester and/or destroy AHLs in its growth media to further disrupt or manipulate bacterial QS.
THE BIOTRANSFORMATION, BIODEGRADATION, AND BIOREMEDIATION OF ORGANIC COMPOUNDS BY MICROALGAE1
Authors: Ghasemi Younes , Rasoul‐Amini Sara , Fotooh‐Abadi Elham
Published: September 2011

Rapid growth in the biotechnological industry and production has put tremendous pressure on the biological methods that may be used according to the guidelines of green chemistry. However, despite continuing dramatic increases in published research on organic biotransformation by microorganisms, more research exists with microalgae. Our efforts in transforming chemicals such as organic compounds for the production of functionalized products help to lessen the environmental effects of organic synthesis. These biotransformations convert organic contaminants to obtain carbon or energy for growth or as cosubstrates. This review aims to focus on the potential of microalgae in transformation, conversion, remediation, accumulation, degradation, and synthesis of various organic compounds. However, these technologies have the ability to provide the most efficient and environmentally safe approach for inexpensive biotransforming of a variety of organic contaminants, which are most industrial residues. In addition, the recent advances in microalgal bioactivity were discussed.
Drinking Course Through Midlife Based on Diagnostic Versus Quantity‐Frequency Indices
Authors: Jacob Theodore , Blonigen Daniel M. , Hubel Kerry , Wood Phillip K. , Haber Jon R.
Published: September 2011

Background:  Prior efforts to examine the course of drinking from onset to midlife have been limited to analyses of year‐to‐year changes in alcohol dependence (AD). The current investigation sought to examine the course of drinking over this time frame using consumption‐based measures of drinking and evaluate the degree of comparability in trajectories estimated from diagnostic and quantity‐frequency data.

Methods:  Participants included 420 men with a lifetime history of AD who were drawn from the Vietnam Era Twin Registry and administered the Lifetime Drinking History, which provided person‐year (retrospective) data on patterns of consumption and diagnostic symptoms from drinking onset to participants’ current age. Consumption‐based data were aggregated into age categories that ranged from “up to age 20” to “ages 54 to 56” and analyzed separately as a dichotomous measure of “heavy drinking (HD)” and continuous quantity‐frequency index (QFI) scores.

Results:  Using latent growth mixture modeling, trajectories based on the HD measure were moderately concordant with those based on changes in AD that were previously identified in this sample, whereas trajectories based on QFI scores were only weakly related to those based on AD diagnoses. Moreover, examination of the degree of concordance between AD‐ and QFI‐derived trajectories revealed that measures of consumption (and potentially other continuous indices of drinking) may qualify past interpretations of various developmental trajectories that have been discussed in the alcoholism typology literature (particularly “Late Onset” alcoholism).

Conclusions:  Collectively, the findings highlight the importance of integrating repeated measures of alcohol consumption in future efforts to describe the course of drinking across the life span.
Use of Opioids or Benzodiazepines and Risk of Pneumonia in Older Adults: A Population‐Based Case–Control Study
Authors: Dublin Sascha , Walker Rod L. , Jackson Michael L. , Nelson Jennifer C. , Weiss Noel S. , Von Korff Michael , Jackson Lisa A.
Published: September 2011

Objectives

To examine whether use of opioids or benzodiazepines is associated with risk of community‐acquired pneumonia in older adults.

Design

Population‐based case–control study.

Setting

An integrated healthcare delivery system.

Participants

Community‐dwelling, immunocompetent adults aged 65 to 94 from 2000 to 2003. Presumptive pneumonia cases were identified from health plan automated data and validated through medical record review. Two controls were selected for each case with pneumonia, matched on age, sex, and calendar year.

Measurements

Information about opioid and benzodiazepine use came from computerized pharmacy data. Information on covariates including comorbid illnesses and functional and cognitive status came from medical record review and electronic health data.

Results

One thousand thirty‐nine validated cases of pneumonia and 2,022 matched controls were identified. One hundred forty‐four (13.9%) cases and 161 (8.0%) controls used prescription opioids (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 1.38, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.08–1.76 vs nonuse). Risk was highest for opioids categorized as immunosuppressive based on immunological studies (OR = 1.88, 95% CI = 1.26–1.79 vs nonuse), whereas for nonimmunosuppressive opioids the OR was 1.23 (95% CI = 0.89–1.69). Risk was highest in the first 14 days of use (OR = 3.24, 95% CI = 1.64–6.39 vs nonuse). For long‐acting opioids, the OR was 3.43 (95% CI = 1.44–8.21) versus nonuse, whereas for short‐acting opioids, it was 1.27 (95% CI = 0.98–1.64). No greater risk was seen for current benzodiazepine use compared to nonuse (OR = 1.08, 95% CI = 0.80–1.47).

Conclusion

Use of opioids but not benzodiazepines was associated with pneumonia risk. The differences in risk seen for different opioid regimens warrant further study.
Relationship Between Vitamin D and Hyperglycemia in Older People From a Nationally Representative Population Survey
Authors: Hirani Vasant
Published: September 2011

Objectives

To investigate the association between vitamin D levels and hyperglycemia in a national community sample of older people.

Design

Cross‐sectional, nationally representative sample.

Setting

Community.

Participants

Two thousand thirty‐eight noninstitutitionalized adults aged 65 and older taking part in the Health Survey for England 2005.

Measurements

Serum 25‐hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH) D) levels, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and covariates: age, sex, social class, season of examination, use of vitamin supplements, and physical health status.

Results

Hyperglycemia was independently associated with low vitamin D levels (odds ratio (OR) = 2.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.20–4.42 for 25(OH)D <25.0 nmol/L and OR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.22–3.58 for 25(OH)D 25.0–49.9 nmol/L) but not for 25(OH)D between 50.0 and 74.9 nmol/L (OR = 1.49, 95% CI = 0.85–2.62).

Conclusion

The higher‐than‐expected co‐occurrence of low vitamin D levels and hyperglycemia (HbA1c ≥ 6.5%) are important public health concerns for older populations living in northern latitudes because both are common, and both have substantial adverse health consequences. Ensuring adequate vitamin D levels may help reverse the increasing trend in the development of diabetes mellitus and related complications in older people.
Can Vehicle Maintenance Records Predict Automobile Accidents?
Authors: Bair Shyi‐Tarn , Huang Rachel J. , Wang Kili C.
Published: September 2011

Abstract

This article proposes that vehicle maintenance records can provide useful information for predicting the probability that an owner will have an automobile accident. To test the hypothesis, we use a unique data set that is merged from an insurance company and a vehicle manufacturer in Taiwan. We find weak evidence to support our hypothesis. Among all the proxies for proper maintenance, we indicate that proper maintenance defined by the recommended kilometers is significantly negatively correlated with the loss probability in compulsory automobile liability insurance. The average loss probability decreases by 0.23 percent when the insured vehicle is properly maintained according to the recommended number of kilometers in the previous years, whereas the average loss probability for the overall sample is 0.49 percent. We further find that proper maintenance is insignificantly correlated with loss severity.
Percutaneous Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation for Atrial Fibrillation Prior to Atrial Septal Defect Closure
Authors: CRANDALL MARK A. , DAOUD EMILE G. , DANIELS CURT J. , KALBFLEISCH STEVEN J.
Published: September 2011

Percutaneous Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation. Patients with an atrial septal defect (ASD) commonly have atrial fibrillation (AF) and closure of the ASD rarely controls the arrhythmia. We report on the management of 4 patients with recurrent medically refractory AF in the setting of an unrepaired ASD who underwent percutaneous RFA prior to ASD closure. In 3 of the 4 patients AF was controlled after ablation without antiarrhythmic drug therapy and in the fourth patient AF was controlled with antiarrhythmic therapy after ASD  closure. Based on these limited results it seems reasonable to consider RFA of medically refractory AF in patients prior to planned percutaneous ASD closure. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 23, pp. 102‐104, January 2012)
UHT Milk Processing and Effect of Plasmin Activity on Shelf Life: A Review
Authors: Chavan Rupesh S. , Chavan Shraddha Rupesh , Khedkar Chandrashekar D. , Jana Atanu H.
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  The demand for ultra‐high‐temperature (UHT) processed and aseptically packaged milk is increasing worldwide. A rise of 47% from 187 billion in 2008 to 265 billon in 2013 in pack numbers is expected. Selection of UHT and aseptic packaging systems reflect customer preferences and the processes are designed to ensure commercial sterility and acceptable sensory attributes throughout shelf life. Advantages of UHT processing include extended shelf life, lower energy costs, and the elimination of required refrigeration during storage and distribution. Desirable changes taking place during UHT processing of milk such as destruction of microorganisms and inactivation of enzymes occur, while undesirable effects such as browning, loss of nutrients, sedimentation, fat separation, cooked flavor also take place. Gelation of UHT milk during storage (age gelation) is a major factor limiting its shelf life. Significant factors that influence the onset of gelation include the nature of the heat treatment, proteolysis during storage, milk composition and quality, seasonal milk production factors, and storage temperature. This review is focused on the types of age gelation and the effect of plasmin activity on enzymatic gelation in UHT milk during a prolonged storage period. Measuring enzyme activity is a major concern to commercial producers, and many techniques, such as enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, spectrophotometery, high‐performance liquid chromatography, and so on, are available. Extension of shelf life of UHT milk can be achieved by deactivation of enzymes, by deploying low‐temperature inactivation at 55 °C for 60 min, innovative steam injection heating, membrane processing, and high‐pressure treatments.
Cardiac electromechanical delay is increased during recovery from 40 km cycling but is not mediated by exercise intensity
Authors: Chan‐Dewar F. , Gregson W. , Whyte G. , King J. , Gaze D. , Carranza‐García L. E. , Legaz‐Arrese A. , George K.
Published: September 2011

Cardiac electrical‐mechanical delay (cEMD), left ventricular (LV) function, and cardiac troponin I (cTnI) were assessed after 40 km cycle time trials completed at high (HIGH) and moderate (MOD) intensities in 12 cyclists. Echocardiograms and blood samples were collected before, 10, and 60 min after cycling. cEMD as assessed by time from QRS onset to peak systolic (S’) tissue velocity was lengthened after both bouts of cycling but was not mediated by cycling intensity (HIGH: 174 ± 52 vs 198 ± 26 ms; MOD: 151 ± 40 vs 178 ± 52 ms, P < 0.05). Global LV systolic function was unaltered by exercise. cEMD from QRS to peak early (E’) diastolic tissue velocity was also increased post‐exercise (HIGH: 524 ± 95 vs 664 ± 68 ms; MOD: 495 ± 62 vs 604 ± 91 ms, P < 0.05). Indices of LV diastolic function was reduced after cycling but were not mediated by exercise intensity. cTnI was elevated in two participants after HIGH trial (0.06 ug/L; 0.04 ug/L) and one participant after MOD trial (0.02 ug/L). While cEMD is lengthened and LV diastolic function was reduced post‐cycling, altering time‐trial intensity had little impact upon cEMD, LV function, and cTnI release.
An investigation of the practice activities and coaching behaviors of professional top‐level youth soccer coaches
Authors: Partington M. , Cushion C.
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was to investigate the coaching behaviors of elite English youth soccer coaches in different practice settings and gain insight into the coaches’ cognitive processes underpinning these behaviors. The practice setting was split into two types of activities, “training form” and “playing form,” and behavioral data were collected using a modified version of the Coach Analysis and Intervention System. Interpretive interview data were triangulated with the behavioral data to ensure that both the “what” and the “why” of the coaches’ behavior and practice were considered. The results showed the coaches using more “training form” activities than “playing form,” and using high levels of prescriptive instruction, regardless of practice type, in contrast to a stated desire to “developing the whole player,” creating “decision makers,” and being a “facilitator of knowledge creation.” The interviews revealed that the coaches had a low self‐awareness about their behavior, with an epistemological gap identified between understanding and practice, with statements of intent not being matched by knowledge and action.
The effect of ageing and fitness on thermoregulatory response to high‐intensity exercise
Authors: Best S. , Caillaud C. , Thompson M.
Published: September 2011

There are conflicting reports as to whether ageing causes a decreased thermoregulatory response, or if observed differences in previous studies are related to maximal aerobic capacity or training status. This study hypothesized that thermoregulatory response to severe exercise‐heat stress is maintained with ageing when both young and older subjects are well trained. Seven older highly trained (OHT = 51–63 years) cyclists were matched with two groups of young cyclists (19–35 years); one group matched for training status [young highly trained (YHT) participants, n = 7] and another for [young moderately trained (YMT), n = 7]. Each participant exercised at 70% in hot (35°C, 40% relative humidity) and thermoneutral (20°C, 40% relative humidity) conditions for 60 min. Final rectal temperature in the thermoneutral and heat (YHT = 39.13 ± 0.33°C, YMT = 39.11 ± 0.38°C, OHT = 39.11 ± 0.51°C) tests were similar between all three groups. %HRmax (heat test: YHT = 92.5 ± 6.0%, YMT = 91.6 ± 4.4%, OHT = 88.6 ± 5.1%), skin temperature, and cutaneous vascular conductance during cycling in both environments were similar between groups. Lower sweat loss and evaporative heat loss in the heat test in the OHT and YMT groups when compared with the YHT group reflected lower metabolic heat production. The findings of the present study suggest that thermoregulatory response is maintained with age among highly trained subjects.
The validity of the diagnostic criteria used in chronic exertional compartment syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Roberts A. , Franklyn‐Miller A.
Published: September 2011

Chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS) of the lower limb is part of a group of overuse lower limb injuries with common presenting features. It is commonly diagnosed by the measurement of raised intramuscular pressures in the lower limb. The pathophysiology of the condition is poorly understood, and the criteria used to make the diagnosis are based on small sample sizes of symptomatic patients. We carried out a systematic review to compare intramuscular pressures in the anterior compartment of healthy subjects with commonly used criteria for CECS. Thirty‐eight studies were included. With the exception of relaxation pressure, the current criteria for diagnosing CECS, considered to be the gold standard, overlap the range found in normal healthy subjects. Several studies reported mean pressures that would prompt a positive diagnosis for CECS, despite none of the subjects reporting any symptoms. The intramuscular pressure at all time points has also shown to vary in relation to a number of other factors other than the presence of CECS. Taken together, these data have major implications on the ability to use these published criteria for diagnosis and question the underlying pathophysiology. Clinicians are recommended to use protocol‐specific upper confidence limits to guide the diagnosis following a failed conservative management.
Mark‐resight abundance and survival estimation of Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops aduncus, in the Swatch‐of‐No‐Ground, Bangladesh
Authors: Mansur Rubaiyat Mowgli , Strindberg Samantha , Smith Brian D.
Published: September 2011

Abstract

A mark‐resight analysis under Pollock's robust design was applied to Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins Tursiops aduncus in the Swatch‐of‐No‐Ground (SoNG) submarine canyon, Bangladesh, during the winter seasons of 2005–2009. Information from sightings of photo‐identified individuals (1,144) and unmarked individuals generated abundance estimates of 1,701 (95% confidence interval [CI]= 1,533–1,888), 1,927 (95% CI = 1,851–2,006), 2,150 (95% CI = 1,906–2,425), and 2,239 (95% CI = 1,985–2,524) individuals for seasons 1–4, respectively. This makes the population among the largest assessed of the species. Overall apparent survival was estimated as 0.958 (95% CI = 0.802–0.992). Interseasonal probabilities of transitioning to an unobservable state were estimated as 0.045, 0.363, and 0.300 for years 1–2, 2–3, and 3–4, respectively, and the overall probability of remaining in an unobservable state was 0.688. These probabilities, together with an apparent increase in abundance during the study period, indicate that the identified dolphins are part of a larger superpopulation moving throughout a more extensive geographic area. Of the photo‐identified dolphins, 28.2% exhibited injuries related to entanglements with fishing gear. This implies a strong potential for fatal interactions that could jeopardize the conservation status of the population, which otherwise appears favorable.
Assessment of Daily Intake of Toxic Elements Due to Consumption of Vegetables, Fruits, Meat, and Seafood by Inhabitants of Xiamen, China
Authors: Chen Chen , Qian Yongzhong , Chen Qiong , Li Chuanyong
Published: September 2011

Abstract:  This study was designed to estimate the dietary intake of cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) (total and methyl), and arsenic (As) by inhabitants of Xiamen, China. The concentrations of these toxic elements (TEs) were determined in vegetables, fruits, meat, and seafood samples randomly acquired in 5 districts of Xiamen between 2005 and 2009. Health risks were evaluated for inhabitants of Xiamen due to dietary consumption. The target hazard quotient (THQ) values for individual elements were far below 1, indicating minimal noncarcinogenic risks from TEs for inhabitants of Xiamen under the current food consumption rate. However, consumption of the entire foodstuffs could lead to potential health risks since the 95th percentile HI was higher than 1. The relative contributions of Cd, Pb, Hg T, and As to the HI were 16.0%, 15.9%, 5.9%, and 62.2% for the mean exposure level, and 13.3%, 13.4%, 5.6%, and 67.9% for the 95th percentile estimate. The THQ value of methyl mercury through consumption of cephalopod was less than 1. Tomato, cephalopod, eggplant, cabbage, orange, and pork were the main sources of total dietary intakes of TEs. The estimation of carcinogenic risk shows that the carcinogenic rate of arsenic exceeded the accepted risk level of 10−4. Therefore, the carcinogenic risk of arsenic for inhabitants of Xiamen is of concern.

Practical Application:  Tomato, cephalopod, eggplant, cabbage, orange, and pork were the main sources of dietary intakes of TEs in Xiamen, China. The carcinogenic risk of arsenic for inhabitants in this area who consume large amounts of fruits and vegetables daily may be of concern. Consumers are encouraged to eat fruits and vegetables with different origins and eat less cephalopod to reduce the possibilities of continuously eating commodities from the contaminated areas.
Visual abilities of students with severe developmental delay in special needs education – a vision screening project in Northern Jutland, Denmark
Authors: Welinder Lotte G. , Baggesen Kirsten L.
Published: September 2011

Purpose:  To investigate the visual abilities of students with severe developmental delay (DD) age 6–8 starting in special needs education.

Methods:  Between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2008, we screened all students with severe DD starting in special needs schools in Northern Jutland, Denmark for vision. All students with visual acuities ≤6/12 were refractioned and examined by an ophthalmologist.

Results:  Of 502 students, 56 (11%) had visual impairment (VI) [visual acuity (VA) ≤ 6/18], of which 21 had been previously undiagnosed. Legal blindness was found in 15 students (3%), of whom three had previously been undiagnosed. Students tested with preferential looking systems (N = 78) had significantly lower visual acuities [VA (decimal) = 0.55] than students tested with ortho types [VA (decimal) = 0.91] and had problems participating in the colour and form tests, possibly due to cerebral VI. The number of students with decreased vision identified by screening decreased significantly during the study period (r = 0.724, p = 0.028). The number of students needed to be screened to find one student with VI was 24 and to identify legal blindness 181 needed to be screened.

Conclusion:  Visual impairment is a common condition in students with severe DD. Despite increased awareness of VI in the school and health care system, we continued to find a considerable number of students with hitherto undiagnosed decreased vision.
Effect of sedation on visual sensations in patients undergoing cataract surgery under topical anaesthesia: a prospective randomized masked trial
Authors: Venkatakrishnan Jaichandran V. , Kumar Chandra M. , Ratra Vineet , Viswanathan Jagadeesh , Jeyaraman Vijay A. , Ragavendera Thennarasu
Published: September 2011

Purpose:  The main aim of the study was to determine whether intravenous sedation with midazolam reduces the ability of patients to see during cataract surgery performed under topical anaesthesia. We also sought to determine the effects of sedation on patient’s level of disturbance to the microscope light and visualization of surgical instruments and on the overall of experience of the patients during surgery.

Methods:  A total of 78 patients, aged 40–75 years, were randomly divided into two groups: Group S, (sedation) who received intravenous midazolam 0.015 mg/kg, and Group NS, (no sedation) who did not receive midazolam. Patients with history of anxiety, those with history of intraocular surgery and those with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were excluded. Topical anaesthesia was achieved by the application of 2% xylocaine gel over the conjunctiva. A blinded observer interviewed all the patients 30 min after the surgery using a standard questionnaire.

Results:  Significant number of patients (25.6%) in Group NS was disturbed a lot because of the microscope light compared to Group S (5.1%), p = 0.021. Also, statistically significant number of patients in Group S (48.7%) compared to Group NS (20.5%) was not sure about the images perceived during surgery and were unable to recollect them after the surgery, p = 0.008, and 12.8% of the patients in Group NS reported the visual experience as frightening compared to 2.6% of patients in Group S, p = 0.239.

Conclusion:  Our study confirms that intravenous midazolam reduces both the ability to see and recall intraoperative visual images in patients undergoing cataract surgery under topical anaesthesia.
Dietary nitrate reduces muscle metabolic perturbation and improves exercise tolerance in hypoxia
Authors: Vanhatalo Anni , Fulford Jonathan , Bailey Stephen J. , Blackwell James R. , Winyard Paul G. , Jones Andrew M.
Published: September 2011

Non‐Technical Summary  Reduced atmospheric O2 availability (hypoxia) impairs muscle oxidative energy production and exercise tolerance. We show that dietary supplementation with inorganic nitrate reduces markers of muscle fatigue and improves high‐intensity exercise tolerance in healthy adults inhaling air containing 14.5% O2. In the body, nitrate can be converted to nitrite and nitric oxide. These molecules can improve muscle efficiency and also dilate blood vessels allowing more O2 to be delivered to active muscle. These results suggest that dietary nitrate could be beneficial during exercise at moderate to high altitude and in conditions where O2 delivery to muscle is reduced such as in pulmonary, cardiovascular and sleep disorders.
Introduction to Network Analysis in Systems Biology
Authors: Ma’ayan Avi
Published: September 2011

Lecture notes, slides, and problem sets introduce applications of graph theory and network analysis in systems biology.
Met Receptor: A Moving Target
Authors: Clague Michael J.
Published: September 2011

Endosomal recycling pathways dictate the signaling capacity of wild-type or mutant Met receptor.
Tug at the Heart Strings
Authors: Ray L. Bryan
Published: September 2011

Reactive oxygen species produced by NADPH oxidase link mechanical stretching to calcium signaling in mammalian myocytes.
Active Trachoma Is Associated with Increased Conjunctival Expression ofIL17Aand Profibrotic Cytokines
Authors: Burton Matthew J. , Ramadhani Athumani , Weiss Helen A. , Hu Victor , Massae Patrick , Burr Sarah E. , Shangali Wahida , Holland Martin J. , Mabey David C. W. , Bailey Robin L.
Published: September 2011

The immunological basis of scarring trachoma is not well understood. It is unclear whether it is driven primarily through cell-mediated adaptive or epithelial-cell-derived innate responses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of the inflammatory and fibrogenic mediators which may be involved. We conducted a cross-sectional survey of children living in an untreated trachoma-endemic community in Tanzania. The children were examined for signs of trachoma, and swabs were collected for bacteriological culture and RNA and DNA isolation.Chlamydia trachomatiswas detected by the Amplicor PCR test. The expression of the following genes was measured by quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR):S100A7,IL1B,IL17A,IL23A,CXCL5,CCL18,TLR2,NLRP3,KLRD1,CTGF, andMMP9. Four hundred seventy children under the age of 10 years were included. Follicular trachoma (TF) was detected in 65 children (14%),C. trachomatiswas detected in 25 (5%), and bacterial pathogens were cultured in 161 (34%). TF was associated with significantly increased expression ofS100A7,IL17A,CCL18,CXCL5, andCTGF.Expression was increased further in the presence of papillary inflammation. Nonchlamydial bacterial infection was associated with increased expression ofIL17A,CXCL5,CCL18, andKLRD1.IL17Aexpression was associated with increased expression ofS100A7,CXCL5,CCL18,KLRD1, andCTGF.These data are consistent with a role for IL-17A in orchestrating the proinflammatory response in trachoma. Its activity may be promoted either as part of the cell-mediated response or through innate pathways. It may drive a range of proinflammatory factors leading to excessive tissue damage and repair involving fibrosis.
Complete Genomic Sequence of the Equol-Producing Bacterium Eggerthella sp. Strain YY7918, Isolated from Adult Human Intestine
Authors: Yokoyama Shin-ichiro , Oshima Kenshiro , Nomura Izumi , Hattori Masahira , Suzuki Tohru
Published: September 2011

Eggerthella
sp. strain YY7918 was isolated from the intestinal flora of a healthy human. It metabolizes daidzein (a soybean isoflavonoid) and produces
S
-equol, which has stronger estrogenic activities than daidzein. Here, we report the finished and annotated genomic sequence of this organism.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Ureolytic Streptococcus salivarius Strain 57.I
Authors: Geng Jianing , Huang Szu-Chuan , Li Shuangli , Hu Songnian , Chen Yi-Ywan M.
Published: September 2011

Streptococcus salivarius
57.I is one of the most abundant and highly ureolytic bacteria in the human mouth. It can utilize urea as the sole nitrogen source via the activity of urease. Complete genome sequencing of
S. salivarius
57.I revealed a chromosome and a phage which are absent in strain SK126.
Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus salivarius NIAS840, Isolated from Chicken Intestine
Authors: Ham Jun-Sang , Kim Hyoun-Wook , Seol Kuk-Hwan , Jang Aera , Jeong Seok-Geun , Oh Mi-Hwa , Kim Dong-Hun , Kang Dae-Kyung , Kim Geun-Bae , Cha Chang-Jun
Published: September 2011

Lactobacillus salivarius
is a well-known lactic acid bacterium to which increasing attention has been paid recently for use as probiotics for humans and animals.
L. salivarius
NIAS840 was first isolated from broiler chicken feces, displaying antimicrobial activities against multidrug-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
and
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium. Here, we report the genome sequence of
L. salivarius
NIAS840 (2,046,557 bp) including a small plasmid and two megaplasmids.
Genome Sequence of Agrobacterium tumefaciens Strain F2, a Bioflocculant-Producing Bacterium
Authors: Li Ang , Geng Jianing , Cui Di , Shu Chang , Zhang Si , Yang Jixian , Xing Jie , Wang Jinna , Ma Fang , Hu Songnian
Published: September 2011

Agrobacterium tumefaciens
F2 is an efficient bioflocculant-producing bacterium. But the genes related to the metabolic pathway of bioflocculant biosynthesis in strain F2 are unknown. We present the draft genome of
A. tumefaciens
F2. It could provide further insight into the biosynthetic mechanism of polysaccharide-like bioflocculant in strain F2.
Whole-Genome Sequence of the Xylanase-Producing Mesoflavibacter zeaxanthinifaciens Strain S86
Authors: Oh Chulhong , Heo Soo-Jin , De Zoysa Mahanama , Affan Abu , Jung Won-Kyo , Park Heung-Sik , Lee Youngdeuk , Lee Jehee , Yoon Kon-Tak , Kang Do-Hyung
Published: September 2011

We isolated
Mesoflavibacter zeaxanthinifaciens
S86 as xylanase-producing bacteria from seawater sampled in Micronesia. Analysis of the
M. zeaxanthinifaciens
genome revealed that it contains a single circular chromosome of 3,704,661 bp with 3,249 putative open reading frames.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Nonculturable Methanococcus maripaludis Strain Extracted in a Metagenomic Survey of Petroleum Reservoir Fluids
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Greenfield Paul , Li Dongmei , Hendry Philip , Volk Herbert , Sutherland Tara D.
Published: September 2011

Extraction of genome sequences from metagenomic data is crucial for reconstructing the metabolism of microbial communities that cannot be mimicked in the laboratory. A complete
Methanococcus maripaludis
genome was generated from metagenomic data derived from a thermophilic subsurface oil reservoir.
M. maripaludis
is a hydrogenotrophic methanogenic species that is common in mesophilic saline environments. Comparison of the genome from the thermophilic, subsurface environment with the genome of the type species will provide insight into the adaptation of a methanogenic genome to an oil reservoir environment.
International medical graduates in the USA: a qualitative study on perceptions of physician migration: Table 1
Authors: Chen P G , Nunez-Smith M , Berg D , Gozu A , Rulisa S , Curry L A
Published: September 2011

Objectives

Physician migration from low-income to high-income nations is a global concern. Despite the centrality of understanding the perspectives of international medical graduates (IMGs) who have experienced migration to understanding the causes and consequences of this phenomenon, empirical literature is limited. The authors sought to characterise the experiences of IMGs from limited resource nations currently practicing primary care in the USA, with a focus on their perspectives on physician migration.

Design

The authors conducted a qualitative study utilising in-depth, in-person interviews and a standardised interview guide. The sample comprised a diverse, purposeful sample of IMGs (n=25) from limited resource nations (defined as having ≤2 physicians per 1000 population).

Results

Analyses revealed four recurrent and unifying themes reflecting the perspectives of IMGs in the USA on physician migration: (1) decisions to migrate were pragmatic decisions made in the context of individual circumstance; (2) the act of migration ultimately affected participants' ability to return home in multiple, unpredictable ways; (3) the ongoing process of acclimation was coupled with inherent conflicts surrounding the decision to remain in the USA; and (4) the effects of policies in both the home country and in the USA occurred at multiple levels.

Conclusion

The perspectives of IMGs who have migrated to the USA are an important addition to the ongoing discussion surrounding the global health workforce. Our findings highlight the effects of workforce policies which are often developed and discussed in abstraction, but have real, measurable impacts on the lives of individuals. Future efforts to address physician migration will need to acknowledge the immediate needs of the health workforce as well as the long-term needs of individuals within health systems.
Self-diagnosis of influenza during a pandemic: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Jutel Annemarie , Baker Michael G , Stanley James , Huang Q Sue , Bandaranayake Don
Published: September 2011

Background

Self-diagnosis of influenza is an important component of pandemic control and management as it may support self-management practices and reduce visits to healthcare facilities, thus helping contain viral spread. However, little is known about the accuracy of self-diagnosis of influenza, particularly during pandemics.

Methods

We used cross-sectional survey data to correlate self-diagnosis of influenza with serological evidence of 2009 pandemic influenza A(H1N1) infection (haemagglutination inhibition titres of ≥1:40) and to determine what symptoms were more likely to be present in accurate self-diagnosis. The sera and risk factor data were collected for the national A(H1N1) seroprevalence survey from November 2009 to March 2010, 3 months after the first pandemic wave in New Zealand (NZ).

Results

The samples consisted of 318 children, 413 adults and 423 healthcare workers. The likelihood of being seropositive was no different in those who believed they had influenza from those who believed they did not have influenza in all groups. Among adults, 23.3% (95% CI 11.9% to 34.7%) of those who reported having had influenza were seropositive for H1N1, but among those reporting no influenza, 21.3% (95% CI 13% to 29.7%) were also seropositive. Those meeting NZ surveillance or Ministry of Health influenza case definitions were more likely to believe they had the flu (surveillance data adult sample OR 27.1, 95% CI 13.6 to 53.6), but these symptom profiles were not associated with a higher likelihood of H1N1 seropositivity (surveillance data adult sample OR 0.93, 95% CI 0.5 to 1.7).

Conclusions

Self-diagnosis does not accurately predict influenza seropositivity. The symptoms promoted by many public health campaigns are linked with self-diagnosis of influenza but not with seropositivity. These findings raise challenges for public health initiatives that depend on accurate self-diagnosis by members of the public and appropriate self-management action.
Inference of subgenomic origin of BACs in an interspecific hybrid sugarcane cultivar by overlapping oligonucleotide hybridizations
Authors: Kim Changsoo , Robertson Jon S. , Paterson Andrew H.
Published: September 2011

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) breeders in the early 20th century made remarkable progress in increasing yield and disease resistance by crossing Saccharum spontaneum L., a wild relative, to Saccharum officinarum L., a traditional cultivar. Modern sugarcane cultivars have approximately 71%–83% of their chromosomes originating from S. officinarum, approximately 10%–21% from S. spontaneum, and approximately 2%–13% recombinant or translocated chromosomes. In the present work, C0t-based cloning and sequencing (CBCS) was implemented to further explore highly repetitive DNA and to seek species-specific repeated DNA in both S. officinarum and S. spontaneum. For putatively species-specific sequences, overlappping oligonucleotide probes (overgos) were designed and hybridized to BAC filters from the interspecific hybrid sugarcane cultivar ‘R570’ to try to deduce parental origins of BAC clones. We inferred that 12 967 BACs putatively originated from S. officinarum and 5117 BACs from S. spontaneum. Another 1103 BACs were hybridized by both species-specific overgos, too many to account for by conventional recombination, thus suggesting ectopic recombination and (or) translocation of DNA elements. Constructing a low C0t library is useful to collect highly repeated DNA sequences and to search for potentially species-specific molecular markers, especially among recently diverged species. Even in the absence of repeat families that are species-specific in their entirety, the identification of localized variations within consensus sequences, coupled with the site specificity of short synthetic overgos, permits researchers to monitor species-specific or species-enriched variants.
SPIN-POLARIZATION ARRAY GENERATION FOR SPIN TRANSPORT USE
Authors: MITATHA S. , SANGIAMSAK W. , KULSIRIRAT K. , TEEKA C. , YUPAPIN P. P.
Published: September 2011

Spin-polarization can be formed by the two components of soliton (electromagnetic wave) within the metallic waveguide. Under the resonant condition, the random transverse electric and magnetic fields of the solitons corresponding to the left-hand and right hand photons can be generated. Whenever a photon is absorbed by an object, an angular momentum of either +ℏ or -ℏ is imparted to the object, in which two possible spin states known as optoelectronic spins are exhibited. Furthermore, the array of optoelectronic spins, i.e., many particles can be generated and controlled by using the modified add-drop filter, in which the broad spectrum soliton can be generated and used to form large scale spin transport applications.