bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhodobacter sphaeroides Uses a Reductive Route via Propionyl Coenzyme A To Assimilate 3-Hydroxypropionate
Authors: Schneider Kathrin , Asao Marie , Carter Michael S. , Alber Birgit E.
Published: November 2011

3-Hydroxypropionate is a product or intermediate of the carbon metabolism of organisms from all three domains of life. However, little is known about how carbon derived from 3-hydroxypropionate is assimilated by organisms that can utilize this C
3
compound as a carbon source. This work uses the model bacterium
Rhodobacter sphaeroides
to begin to elucidate how 3-hydroxypropionate can be incorporated into cell constituents. To this end, a quantitative assay for 3-hydroxypropionate was developed by using recombinant propionyl coenzyme A (propionyl-CoA) synthase from
Chloroflexus aurantiacus
. Using this assay, we demonstrate that
R. sphaeroides
can utilize 3-hydroxypropionate as the sole carbon source and energy source. We establish that acetyl-CoA is not the exclusive entry point for 3-hydroxypropionate into the central carbon metabolism and that the reductive conversion of 3-hydroxypropionate to propionyl-CoA is a necessary route for the assimilation of this molecule by
R. sphaeroides
. Our conclusion is based on the following findings: (i) crotonyl-CoA carboxylase/reductase, a key enzyme of the ethylmalonyl-CoA pathway for acetyl-CoA assimilation, was not essential for growth with 3-hydroxypropionate, as demonstrated by mutant analyses and enzyme activity measurements; (ii) the reductive conversion of 3-hydroxypropionate or acrylate to propionyl-CoA was detected in cell extracts of
R. sphaeroides
grown with 3-hydroxypropionate, and both activities were upregulated compared to the activities of succinate-grown cells; and (iii) the inactivation of
acuI
, encoding a candidate acrylyl-CoA reductase, resulted in a 3-hydroxypropionate-negative growth phenotype.
Roles of Endonuclease V, Uracil-DNA Glycosylase, and Mismatch Repair in Bacillus subtilis DNA Base-Deamination-Induced Mutagenesis
Authors: López-Olmos Karina , Hernández Martha P. , Contreras-Garduño Jorge A. , Robleto Eduardo A. , Setlow Peter , Yasbin Ronald E. , Pedraza-Reyes Mario
Published: November 2011

The disruption of
ung
, the unique uracil-DNA-glycosylase-encoding gene in
Bacillus subtilis
, slightly increased the spontaneous mutation frequency to rifampin resistance (Rif
r
), suggesting that additional repair pathways counteract the mutagenic effects of uracil in this microorganism. An alternative excision repair pathway is involved in this process, as the loss of YwqL, a putative endonuclease V homolog, significantly increased the mutation frequency of the
ung
null mutant, suggesting that Ung and YwqL both reduce the mutagenic effects of base deamination. Consistent with this notion, sodium bisulfite (SB) increased the Rif
r
mutation frequency of the single
ung
and double
ung
ywqL
strains, and the absence of Ung and/or YwqL decreased the ability of
B. subtilis
to eliminate uracil from DNA. Interestingly, the Rif
r
mutation frequency of single
ung
and
mutSL
(mismatch repair [MMR] system) mutants was dramatically increased in a
ung
knockout strain that was also deficient in MutSL, suggesting that the MMR pathway also counteracts the mutagenic effects of uracil. Since the mutation frequency of the
ung mutSL
strain was significantly increased by SB, in addition to Ung, the mutagenic effects promoted by base deamination in growing
B. subtilis
cells are prevented not only by YwqL but also by MMR. Importantly, in nondividing cells of
B. subtilis
, the accumulations of mutations in three chromosomal alleles were significantly diminished following the disruption of
ung
and
ywqL
. Thus, under conditions of nutritional stress, the processing of deaminated bases in
B. subtilis
may normally occur in an error-prone manner to promote adaptive mutagenesis.
A Rickettsia Genome Overrun by Mobile Genetic Elements Provides Insight into the Acquisition of Genes Characteristic of an Obligate Intracellular Lifestyle
Authors: Gillespie Joseph J. , Joardar Vinita , Williams Kelly P. , Driscoll Timothy , Hostetler Jessica B. , Nordberg Eric , Shukla Maulik , Walenz Brian , Hill Catherine A. , Nene Vishvanath M. , Azad Abdu F. , Sobral Bruno W. , Caler Elisabet
Published: November 2011

We present the draft genome for the
Rickettsia
endosymbiont of
Ixodes scapularis
(REIS), a symbiont of the deer tick vector of Lyme disease in North America. Among
Rickettsia
species (
Alphaproteobacteria: Rickettsiales
), REIS has the largest genome sequenced to date (>2 Mb) and contains 2,309 genes across the chromosome and four plasmids (pREIS1 to pREIS4). The most remarkable finding within the REIS genome is the extraordinary proliferation of mobile genetic elements (MGEs), which contributes to a limited synteny with other
Rickettsia
genomes. In particular, an integrative conjugative element named RAGE (for
Rickettsiales
amplified genetic element), previously identified in scrub typhus rickettsiae (
Orientia tsutsugamushi
) genomes, is present on both the REIS chromosome and plasmids. Unlike the pseudogene-laden RAGEs of
O. tsutsugamushi
, REIS encodes nine conserved RAGEs that include F-like type IV secretion systems similar to that of the
tra
genes encoded in the
Rickettsia bellii
and
R. massiliae
genomes. An unparalleled abundance of encoded transposases (>650) relative to genome size, together with the RAGEs and other MGEs, comprise ∼35% of the total genome, making REIS one of the most plastic and repetitive bacterial genomes sequenced to date. We present evidence that conserved rickettsial genes associated with an intracellular lifestyle were acquired via MGEs, especially the RAGE, through a continuum of genomic invasions. Robust phylogeny estimation suggests REIS is ancestral to the virulent spotted fever group of rickettsiae. As REIS is not known to invade vertebrate cells and has no known pathogenic effects on
I. scapularis
, its genome sequence provides insight on the origin of mechanisms of rickettsial pathogenicity.
Public health on-call in Scotland: how much experience is sufficient?
Authors: McCartney G , Dunbar J K , Morling J , Johnman C , Gilmour H
Published: November 2011

Objectives

To quantify the out-of-hours experience obtained by public health trainees in Scotland and to assess whether this is sufficient to meet the Faculty of Public Health guidelines.

Study design

Prospective survey.

Methods

All public health trainees in Scotland were invited to participate in a prospective survey of out-of-hours experience. Data were collected from March 2009 to March 2010. The variation in the experience between trainees was compared according to the size, urban/rural mix, and deprivation of the population for which they were responsible. The variation in the experiences gained were then compared to the requirements of the Faculty of Public Health.

Results

18 trainees participated from 6 areas, collecting data on 391 shifts and a total of 276 calls. For every 50 shifts the median number of notifications of probable meningococcus was 3.7 and the median number of chemical incidents and Escherichia coli O157 notifications was 0.0. This variation is difficult to interpret because some trainees collected data for only a short period. The variation between trainees was not significantly related to population size, deprivation or rurality. Pooling the data from all trainees, there was a mean of 2.9 probable meningococcus notifications, 2.4 E coli O157 calls, and 0.3 chemical incident calls per 50 shifts.

Conclusions

There is a large and unpredictable degree of variation in the on-call experience of Scottish trainees. The minimum recommended number of on-call shifts may not be adequate to ensure a high proportion of trainees are prepared for unsupervised on-call.
The use of fungicide Nova to mitigate infection of Sphagnum by parasitic fungi in the greenhouse
Authors: Landry J. , Martinez C. , Rochefort L.
Published: November 2011

A common problem when growing Sphagnum mosses in the greenhouse is the propagation of parasitic fungi. Since no clear procedure is available to correct the situation, the aim of this experiment is to give scientists and growers a tool to control fungi invasions in the greenhouse. First, eight fungicides and the effect of temperature were tested on Petri dishes inoculated with two fungi commonly found in Sphagnum: Lyophyllum palustre (Peck) Singer and Chaetomium sp. To assess Sphagnum tolerance to fungicides, the four most efficient treatments were tested on healthy Sphagnum carpet, at maximum and minimum concentrations. Finally, the most promising fungicide, Nova (myclobutanil), was tested on Sphagnum carpets infected by L. palustre and Chaetomium sp. Since the concentration of this fungicide had no effect on biomass accumulation, the maximum concentration (0.54 g/L) was tested. Because of the high absorbency of Sphagnum, Nova was applied at the recommended dose (1 L/10 m2) and at three times the recommended dose (3 L/10 m2). An evaluation of infected Sphagnum individuals was carried out after a frequency of two and three applications. The recommendation for controlling the invasion of Sphagnum by L. palustre and Chaetomium sp. in the greenhouse is the application of Nova fungicide at three times the recommended dose. The frequency of applications had no significant effect.
Analysis of elastic constants and thermal energy of ionic materials
Authors: Srivastava S.K.
Published: November 2011

Expressions for the temperature dependence of elastic constants have been formulated by taking into account volume dependence of the Anderson–Grüneisen parameters. These expressions have been applied to ionic materials such as NaCl, KCl, MgO, and CaO to determine elastic constants at different temperatures. It is found that the linear relationship between isothermal bulk modulus and thermal energy (Eth) is also applicable to other elastic constants. This linear relationship is valid, starting from room temperature.
Phosphodiesterase type-2 and NO-dependentS-nitrosylation mediate the cardioinhibition of the antihypertensive catestatin
Authors: Angelone Tommaso , Quintieri Anna Maria , Pasqua Teresa , Gentile Stefano , Tota Bruno , Mahata Sushil K. , Cerra Maria Carmela
Published: November 2011

The chromogranin A (CHGA)-derived peptide catestatin (CST: hCHGA352–372) is a noncompetitive catecholamine-release inhibitor that exerts vasodilator, antihypertensive, and cardiosuppressive actions. We have shown that CST directly influences the basal performance of the vertebrate heart where CST dose dependently induced a nitric oxide-cGMP-dependent cardiosuppression and counteracted the effects of adrenergic stimulation through a noncompetitive antagonism. Here, we sought to determine the specific intracardiac signaling activated by CST in the rat heart. Physiological analyses performed on isolated, Langendorff-perfused cardiac preparations revealed that CST-induced negative inotropism and lusitropism involve β2/β3-adrenergic receptors (β2/β3-AR), showing a higher affinity for β2-AR. Interaction with β2-AR activated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), increased cGMP levels, and induced activation of phosphodiesterases type 2 (PDE2), which was found to be involved in the antiadrenergic action of CST as evidenced by the decreased cAMP levels. CST-dependent negative cardiomodulation was abolished by functional denudation of the endothelium with Triton. CST also increased the eNOS expression in cardiac tissue and human umbilical vein endothelial cells. cells, confirming the involvement of the vascular endothelium. In ventricular extracts, CST increased S-nitrosylation of both phospholamban and β-arrestin, suggesting an additional mechanism for intracellular calcium modulation and β-adrenergic responsiveness. We conclude that PDE2 and S-nitrosylation play crucial roles in the CST regulation of cardiac function. Our results are of importance in relation to the putative application of CST as a cardioprotective agent against stress, including excessive sympathochromaffin overactivation.
Role of soluble adenylyl cyclase in the heart
Authors: Chen Jonathan , Levin Lonny R. , Buck Jochen
Published: November 2011

This review discusses the potential place of soluble adenylyl cyclase (sAC) in the framework of signaling in the cardiovascular system. cAMP has been studied as a critical and pleiotropic second messenger in cardiomyocytes, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle vascular cells for many years. It is involved in the transduction of signaling by catecholamines, prostaglandins, adenosine, and glucagon, just to name a few. These hormones can act via cAMP by binding to a G protein-coupled receptor on the plasma membrane with subsequent activation of a heterotrimeric G protein and its downstream effector, transmembrane adenylyl cyclase. This has long been the canonical standard for cAMP production in a cell. However, the relatively recent discovery of a unique source of cAMP, sAC, creates the potential for a shift in this signaling paradigm. In fact, sAC has been shown to play a role in apoptosis in coronary endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes. Additionally, it links nutrient utilization with ATP production in the liver and brain, which suggests one of many potential roles for sAC in cardiac function. The possibility of producing cAMP from a source distal to the plasma membrane provides a critical new building block for reconstructing the cellular signaling infrastructure.
Angiopoietin-2 promotes inflammatory lymphangiogenesis and its effect can be blocked by the specific inhibitor L1-10
Authors: Yan Zhi-Xin , Jiang Zhao-Hua , Liu Ning-Fei
Published: November 2011

Angiopoietin (Ang)-2, a ligand of the receptor tyrosine kinase Tie2, is known to be involved in the regulation of embryonic lymphangiogenesis. However, the role of Ang-2 in postnatal pathological lymphangiogenesis, such as inflammation, is largely unknown. We used a combination of imaging, molecular, and cellular approaches to investigate whether Ang-2 is involved in inflammatory lymphangiogenesis. We observed strong and continuous expression of Ang-2 on newly generated lymphatic vessels for 2 wk in sutured corneas of BALB/c mice. This expression was concurrent with an increased number of lymphatic vessels. TNF-α expression also increased, with peak TNF-α expression occurring before peak Ang-2 expression was reached. In vitro experiments showed that TNF-α stimulates Ang-2 and Tie2 and ICAM-1 expression on human lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) and blood vascular endothelial cells (BECs). Ang-2 alone did not affect the biological behavior of LECs, whereas Ang-2 combined with TNF-α significantly promoted the proliferation of LECs but not BECs. In mouse models, blockade of Ang-2 with L1-10, an Ang-2-specific inhibitor, significantly inhibited lymphangiogenesis but promoted angiogenesis. These results clearly indicate that Ang-2 acts as a crucial regulator of inflammatory lymphangiogenesis by sensitizing the lymphatic vasculature to inflammatory stimuli, thereby directly promoting lymphangiogenesis. The involvement of Ang-2 in inflammatory lymphangiogenesis provides a strong rationale for the exploitation of anti-Ang-2 treatment in the prevention and treatment of tumor metastasis and transplant rejection.
Childhood Brain Tumors and Maternal Cured Meat Consumption in Pregnancy: Differential Effect by GlutathioneS-Transferases
Authors: Nielsen Susan Searles , Mueller Beth A. , Preston-Martin Susan , Farin Federico M. , Holly Elizabeth A. , McKean-Cowdin Roberta
Published: November 2011

Background: Some epidemiologic studies suggest that maternal consumption of cured meat during pregnancy may increase risk of brain tumors in offspring. We explored whether this possible association was modified by fetal genetic polymorphisms in genes coding for glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) that may inactivate nitroso compounds.

Methods: We assessed six GST variants: GSTM1 null, GSTT1 null, GSTP1I105V (rs1695), GSTP1A114V (rs1138272), GSTM3*B (3-bp deletion), and GSTM3A-63C (rs1332018) within a population-based case-control study with data on maternal prenatal cured meat consumption (202 cases and 286 controls born in California or Washington, 1978–1990).

Results: Risk of childhood brain tumor increased with increasing cured meat intake by the mother during pregnancy among children without GSTT1 [OR = 1.29; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 1.07–1.57 for each increase in the frequency of consumption per week] or with potentially reduced GSTM3 (any −63C allele; OR = 1.14; 95% CI, 1.03–1.26), whereas no increased risk was observed among those with GSTT1 or presumably normal GSTM3 levels (interaction P = 0.01 for each).

Conclusions: Fetal ability to deactivate nitrosoureas may modify the association between childhood brain tumors and maternal prenatal consumption of cured meats.

Impact: These results support the hypothesis that maternal avoidance during pregnancy of sources of some nitroso compounds or their precursors may reduce risk of brain tumors in some children. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(11); 2413–9. ©2011 AACR.
Nicotine, Carbon Monoxide, and Carcinogen Exposure after a Single Use of a Water Pipe
Authors: Jacob Peyton , Raddaha Ahmad H. Abu , Dempsey Delia , Havel Christopher , Peng Margaret , Yu Lisa , Benowitz Neal L.
Published: November 2011

Background: Smoking tobacco preparations in a water pipe (hookah) is widespread in many places of the world, including the United States, where it is especially popular among young people. Many perceive water pipe smoking to be less hazardous than cigarette smoking. We studied systemic absorption of nicotine, carbon monoxide, and carcinogens from one water pipe smoking session.

Methods: Sixteen subjects smoked a water pipe on a clinical research ward. Expired carbon monoxide and carboxyhemoglobin were measured, plasma samples were analyzed for nicotine concentrations, and urine samples were analyzed for the tobacco-specific nitrosamine 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1- butanol (NNAL) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) metabolite biomarker concentrations.

Results: We found substantial increases in plasma nicotine concentrations, comparable to cigarette smoking, and increases in carbon monoxide levels that are much higher than those typically observed from cigarette smoking, as previously published. Urinary excretion of NNAL and PAH biomarkers increased significantly following water pipe smoking.

Conclusions: Absorption of nicotine in amounts comparable to cigarette smoking indicates a potential for addiction, and absorption of significant amounts of carcinogens raise concerns of cancer risk in people who smoke tobacco products in water pipes.

Impact: Our data contribute to an understanding of the health impact of water pipe use. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(11); 2345–53. ©2011 AACR.
Circulation of Progenitor Cells in Obese and Lean Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Bellows Charles F. , Zhang Yan , Chen Jinyun , Frazier Marsha L. , Kolonin Mikhail G.
Published: November 2011

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common life-threatening malignancy; risk and progression are elevated in obesity. The purpose of this study was to measure the frequency of circulating CD34-positive endothelial and progenitor cells in the circulation and evaluate their potential values as CRC biomarkers.

Methods: Blood was collected from 45 patients with CRC and compared with cancer-free control donors. Detection and enumeration of cells was carried out by flow cytometry on the basis of immunophenotypes established for the cell populations of interest: hematopoietic and endothelial circulating progenitor cells, endothelial cells, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC), and CD34bright leukocytes (CD34b LC). Groups were compared using multivariate regression analysis. Receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the diagnostic values.

Results: After adjusting for age and body mass index (BMI), the mean frequencies of MSCs and CD34b LCs were significantly higher in the circulation of patients with CRC than in controls. The areas under the ROC curve were 0.77 and 0.82 for MSCs and CD34b LCs, respectively. The frequency of circulating MSCs, but not of the other cell populations, was also found to be significantly higher in the circulation of obese patients with CRC (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2) than in lean patients with CRC and obese controls.

Conclusions: Increased frequency of MSCs and CD34b LCs in the peripheral blood may represent a new diagnostic marker for CRC.

Impact: BMI-dependent changes in circulating MSCs, potentially mobilized from white adipose tissue may reveal their trafficking to tumors, which could be one of the mechanistic links between obesity and cancer progression. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 20(11); 2461–8. ©2011 AACR.
Tumor Suppressor MicroRNA-493 Decreases Cell Motility and Migration Ability in Human Bladder Cancer Cells by Downregulating RhoC and FZD4
Authors: Ueno Koji , Hirata Hiroshi , Majid Shahana , Yamamura Soichiro , Shahryari Varahram , Tabatabai Z. Laura , Hinoda Yuji , Dahiya Rajvir
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to identify new tumor suppressor microRNAs (miRNA; miR) in bladder cancer, conduct functional analysis of their suppressive role, and identify their specific target genes. To explore tumor suppressor miRs in bladder cancer, miR microarray was conducted using SV-HUC-1, T24, J82, and TCCSUP cells. Expression of miR-493 in bladder cancer (T24, J82, and TCCSUP) cells was downregulated compared with normal SV-HUC-1 cells. Also, the expression of miR-493 was significantly lower in bladder cancer tissues than in their corresponding noncancerous tissues. Transfection of miR-493 into T24 or J82 cells decreased their cell growth and migration abilities. On the basis of this result, to identify potential miR-493 target genes, we used target scan algorithms to identify target oncogenes related to invasion and migration. miR-493 decreased 3′-untranslated region luciferase activity and protein expression of FZD4 and RhoC. miR-493 also decreased binding of RhoC and Rock-1. miR-493 is a new tumor suppressor miRNA in bladder cancer and inhibits cell motility through downregulation of RhoC and FZD4. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(1); 244–53. ©2011 AACR.
MK-2206, a Novel Allosteric Inhibitor of Akt, Synergizes with Gefitinib against Malignant Glioma via Modulating Both Autophagy and Apoptosis
Authors: Cheng Yan , Zhang Yi , Zhang Li , Ren Xingcong , Huber-Keener Kathryn J. , Liu Xiaoyuan , Zhou Lei , Liao Jason , Keihack Heike , Yan Li , Rubin Eric , Yang Jin-Ming
Published: November 2011

Gefitinib, a small molecule inhibitor of the epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase, has been shown to induce autophagy as well as apoptosis in tumor cells. Yet, how to use autophagy and apoptosis to improve therapeutic efficacy of this drug against cancer remains to be explored. We reported here that MK-2206, a potent allosteric Akt inhibitor currently in phase I trials in patients with solid tumors, could reinforce the cytocidal effect of gefitinib against glioma. We found that cotreatment with gefitinib and MK-2206 increased the cytotoxicity of this growth factor receptor inhibitor in the glioma cells, and the CompuSyn synergism/antagonism analysis showed that MK-2206 acted synergistically with gefitinib. The benefit of the combinatorial treatment was also shown in an intracranial glioma mouse model. In the presence of MK-2206, there was a significant increase in apoptosis in glioma cells treated with gefitinib. MK-2206 also augmented the autophagy-inducing effect of gefitinib, as evidenced by increased levels of the autophagy marker, LC3-II. Inhibition of autophagy by silencing of the key autophagy gene, beclin 1 or 3-MA, further increased the cytotoxicity of this combinatorial treatment, suggesting that autophagy induced by these agents plays a cytoprotective role. Notably, at 48 hours following the combinatorial treatment, the level of LC3-II began to decrease but Bim was significantly elevated, suggesting a switch from autophagy to apoptosis. On the basis of the synergistic effect of MK-2206 on gefitinib observed in this study, the combination of these two drugs may be utilized as a new therapeutic regimen for malignant glioma. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(1); 154–64. ©2011 AACR.
Risk Modification of Colorectal Adenoma byCYP7A1Polymorphisms and the Role of Bile Acid Metabolism in Carcinogenesis
Authors: Wertheim Betsy C. , Smith Jeffrey W. , Fang Changming , Alberts David S. , Lance Peter , Thompson Patricia A.
Published: November 2011

Cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1), the rate-limiting enzyme in the conversion of cholesterol to bile acids, is a postulated gene modifier of colorectal cancer risk and target for the therapeutic bile acid, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). We investigated associations between CYP7A1 polymorphisms and fecal bile acids, colorectal adenoma (CRA), and UDCA efficacy for CRA prevention. Seven tagging, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in CYP7A1 were measured in 703 (355 UDCA, 348 placebo) participants of a phase III chemoprevention trial, of which 495 had known baseline fecal bile acid concentrations. In the placebo arm, participants with two minor Grs8192871 alleles (tag for a low activity promoter polymorphism at −204) had lower odds of high secondary bile acids (OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.10–0.69), and CRA at 3 years' follow-up (OR = 0.41, 95% CI: 0.19–0.89), than AA carriers. Haplotype construction from the six polymorphic SNPs showed participants with the third most common haplotype (Crs10957057Crs8192879Grs8192877Trs11786580Ars8192871Grs13251096) had higher odds of high primary bile acids (OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.12–4.89) and CRA (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.00–3.57) than those with the most common CTACAG haplotype. Furthermore, three SNPs (rs8192877, rs8192871, and rs13251096) each modified UDCA efficacy for CRA prevention, and CCGTAG-haplotype carriers experienced 71% lower odds of CRA recurrence with UDCA treatment, an effect not present for other haplotypes (test for UDCA–haplotype interaction, P = 0.020). Our findings support CYP7A1 polymorphisms as determinants of fecal bile acids and risk factors for CRA. Furthermore, UDCA efficacy for CRA prevention may be modified by genetic variation in CYP7A1, limiting treatment benefit to a subgroup of the population. Cancer Prev Res; 5(2); 197–204. ©2011 AACR.
Genetic Update on Auditory Neuropathy
Authors: Marlin S. , Jonard L. , Loundon N. , Bonnet C. , Leboulanger N. , Van Maldergem L. , Gherbi S. , Louha M. , Deltenre P. , Collette J.L. , Couderc R. , Garabedian E.N. , Denoyelle F.
Published: November 2011

Auditory neuropathy (AN) is defined as a sensorineural hearing impairment (HI) characterized by preserved cochlear outer hair cell function with normal otoacoustic emissions but abnormal or absent brainstem evoked potentials. The prevalence of AN in HIs remains to be established and its pathophysiology has not been determined. Several environmental and genetic causes have been identified, but the majority of cases remain unexplained. In the last 10 years, many genes have been identified in isolated and/or syndromic HI. Some of them (OTOF, PJVK, DIAPH3, OPA1, FXN, PMP22, ERCC6, ERCC8, SLC19A2 and TIMM8A, for example) are responsible for phenotypes corresponding to the AN definition. This review will focus on isolated and syndromic forms of AN for which the causative genes have been identified.
Management of Acute Coronary Syndrome in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease: If We Don’t Risk Anything, We Risk Even More
Authors: Asim Muhammad , Jeffrey Robin Fraser
Published: November 2011

The utilization of coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention in the routine care for patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS) has resulted in significant improvement in their prognosis. Consequently, recommendations on the use of these management strategies are reflected in the ACC/AHA guidelines for the management of patients with unstable angina and myocardial infarction. However, among other causes, the ‘phobia’ of nephrotoxicity of iodinated contrast media (ICM) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and its claimed adverse effect on short-term and long-term survival has led to a worryingly low use of ICM-based diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in patients with CKD. We argue that the fear of iodinated contrast media-induced acute kidney injury (ICI-AKI) is not a valid reason to avoid ICM-based investigations/interventions in CKD patients with ACS; the risks of myocardial infarction and death greatly outweigh the risk of ICI-AKI in most of these patients and hence they should always be considered for myocardial revascularization.
Inhaled NO and Sildenafil Combination in Cardiac Surgery Patients With Out-of-Proportion Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Matamis Dimitrios , Pampori Smaro , Papathanasiou Athanasios , Papakonstantinou Panagiota , Tsagourias Mathew , Galiatsou Eftichia , Koulouras Vasilios , Nakos George
Published: November 2011

Background—

The goal of this study was to examine the effects of coadministration of sildenafil and inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) in patients with out-of-proportion pulmonary hypertension who underwent cardiac valve replacement surgery.

Methods and Results—

Twenty consecutive cardiac surgery patients with out-of-proportion pulmonary hypertension were randomly assigned postoperatively into 2 groups: group A received 10 ppm of iNO followed by sildenafil (100 mg) orally 30 minutes later, and group B initially received sildenafil (100 mg) orally followed by 10 ppm of iNO 60 minutes later. Hemodynamic and gas exchange data were obtained at baseline, after administration of either iNO or sildenafil alone, and at 90 minutes from baseline. In group A, iNO resulted in a significant reduction in mean pulmonary artery pressure (MPAP) and pulmonary vascular resistance index (PVRI) (by 9.6% and 20.8%, respectively). In group B, sildenafil administration also resulted in a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure, MPAP, pulmonary artery occlusive pressure, PVRI, and systemic vascular resistance index but also in the PaO
2
/inspired fraction of oxygen ratio (by 18.7%, 22.0%, 15.7%, 31.6%, 21.3%, and 14%, respectively). In both groups, the coadministration of the 2 drugs resulted in a significant further reduction of mean arterial pressure, MPAP, pulmonary artery occlusive pressure, systemic vascular resistance index, and PVRI, whereas cardiac index and mixed venous oxygen saturation remained unchanged. The hypoxemia after sildenafil administration in group B improved after the coadministration of iNO, and thus PaO
2
/inspired fraction of oxygen returned to values near baseline.

Conclusion—

In this study, the postoperative coadministration of iNO and oral sildenafil in patients with out-of-proportion pulmonary hypertension undergoing cardiac surgery is safe and results in an additive favorable effect on pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance, without systemic hypotension and ventilation/perfusion mismatch.
The Impact of Controller Naturalness on Spatial Presence, Gamer Enjoyment, and Perceived Realism in a Tennis Simulation Video Game
Authors: McGloin Rory , Krcmar Marina
Published: November 2011

The introduction and popularity of the Nintendo Wii home console has brought attention to the natural mapping motion capturing controller. Using a sample that identified sports as their most frequently played video games, a mental models approach was used to test the impact that perceived controller naturalness (traditional controller vs. natural mapping motion capturing controller) had on perceptions of spatial presence, realism, and enjoyment. The results showed that perceived video game realism is a predictor of spatial presence and enjoyment. Furthermore, the results supported predictions that controller naturalness would influence perceived video game realism of graphics and sound. Future research should investigate whether or not these controllers lead to greater presence and enjoyment in different genres of games (e.g., first-person shooters). In addition, future research should consider whether or not these controllers have the ability to prime violent mental models.
Notes on the Implementation by Latin American Courts of the ILO Convention 169 on Indigenous Peoples
Authors: Courtis Christian
Published: November 2011

This article presents some emblematic cases of the application of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 169 Concerning Indigenous and Tribal Peoples in Independent Nations by Latin American courts. I chose a small number of cases that cover diverse topics and represent different countries in the region, as well as the regional court of human rights – the Inter-American Court of Human Rights. It is clear that there has been considerable experience in the application of Convention 169 in Latin America, with some countries having developed important jurisprudence through a significant number of judgments in the field. Therefore, this work makes no pretence of being an exhaustive review of the material: the perspective adopted is simply to select a handful of cases, based on the novelty of interpretation offered or on the relevance of its consequences. Before outlining the cases, I make some preliminary clarifications that may be useful in explaining the material presented here, and the context in which they should be understood.
A Constitutional Moment?: United Nations Peacekeeping in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Sheeran Scott P.
Published: November 2011

The United Nations (UN) is the world's most prominent international organization, and a key issue is its responsibility under international law. The contemporary growth in UN powers and activities has not been matched by parallel developments in accountability and checks and balances within the UN legal order. This was recently brought to the fore in the instance of UN peacekeepers providing support to Congolese army forces responsible for serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law. It became a significant public issue and the Secretary-General eventually withdrew UN support from a unit of the Congolese army. This article demonstrates that this withdrawal of support by the Secretary-General represents a constitutional moment for the United Nations. It confirmed a key premise that the Secretary-General is normatively constrained under the Charter, including by the Organization's obligations, when implementing the decisions of the Security Council. This is a legal development which engages a number of emerging and uncertain areas of international law relating to the United Nations, including the UN's constitutional law, the responsibility of international organizations, the substantive obligations of the Organization, and the role of international law in peace and security. Recognizing this important development not only confirms the Secretary-General's legal responsibility under the Charter, it reinforces the view of the Charter as a living instrument and provides an effective and important means for incorporating the law of responsibility into the UN constitutional order and a check upon the expansive application of the Security Council's implied powers doctrine.
The security Council's Responsibility to Protect
Authors: Peters Anne
Published: November 2011

The objective of this paper is to spell out the legal consequences of the concept "responsibility to protect" (R2P), postulated as a binding legal principle of international law, for the Security Council and its members. The paper is a thought experiment, because the binding legal force of R2P is not settled. My argument is that, once R2P is accepted as a full-fledged legal principle, the Security Council (and its members) would be under a legal obligation to authorize or to take sufficiently robust action in R2P situations. The paper then discusses the problems engendered by the acceptance of such a material obligation and suggests a procedural obligation to justify inaction instead.
The Holy Spirit of Life, Work, and Inspired Speech: Responding to John (Jack) R. Levison, Filled with the Spirit
Authors: Waddell Robby
Published: November 2011

This brief review and response commends Levison's Filled with the Spirit for its fresh articulation of biblical pneumatologies and seeks to examine and explore possible effects of Levison's methodology and conclusions for future Pentecostal scholarship on pneumatology.
Prosperity and Prophecy in African Pentecostalism
Authors: Quayesi-Amakye Joseph
Published: November 2011

This essay discusses how prosperity is understood and articulated in Ghanaian Pentecostal prophetic circles. It seeks to show that in the peripheral prophetism of Pentecostalism, prosperity is perceived as the good life Christ offers those who believe in him. The good life is a religious and social quest of Ghanaians. The bad life is a privation of goodness in this life. Coping with the bad life has necessitated the patronage of Ghanaian prophetic services where rituals of transformation are employed to negotiate evil and suffering in the life of the faithful. Critical in the discussion is the role of the 'Other' who creates conditions of impoverishment for people and who justifies the necessity of prophetic negotiation. The paper also analyses the content of the bad life and finally attempts to show that Christ's parables in Luke 16 propose a guiding paradigm for conceiving prosperity as a tool for harmonious interhuman relations.
A Distinctive Leadership for a Distinctive Network of Churches? Psychological Type Theory and the Apostolic Networks
Authors: Francis Leslie J. , Kay William K. , Robbins Mandy
Published: November 2011

This study compares the personality profile of male leaders connected with twelve apostolic networks of churches in the UK with the profile of Church of England clergymen. It makes a further comparison with the UK population norms. Data provided by 164 male apostolic network leaders demonstrated that, compared with the Church of England clergymen, they were more likely to prefer extraversion and less likely to prefer intuition. Compared with the UK male population norms, these leaders were more likely to prefer extraversion, intuition, feeling and judging. The implications of these findings are discussed for ministry and mission.
The psychological context in the contemporaneous city
Authors: Fernández-Ramírez Baltasar
Published: November 2011

The author presents a panoramic vision of the historic and conceptual evolution of certain key issues in urban studies: city size, the urban space, the concept of urbanite and citizen, and the ideal model city. The proposals of 19th Century sociologists and the Chicago School have given way to a postmodern form of urbanism, which highlights the ideas of the global city, outsourcing, gated residential suburbs and themed quarters, political agents and territoriants, fortified garden cities and futuristic dystopian scenarios. New urbanism (exemplified by the Los Angeles School) challenges the psychology of the city and imposes the need to renew language, perspectives, epistemology and professional practices. Ecology and postmodernist constructionism are two theoretical frameworks that merge and overlap in the different contributions made to this special issue about Urban environment and behaviour.
Place attachment, place identity and residential mobility in undergraduate students
Authors: Vidal Tomeu , Valera Sergi , Peró Maribel
Published: November 2011

This study examines how patterns of residential mobility affect place attachment and identity. In accordance with Hernández, Hidalgo, Salazar-Laplace and Hess (2007), among other contributions which have approached the relationship between these concepts (Knez, 2005; Kyle, Graefe and Manning, 2005; Jorgensen and Stedman, 2001; Lalli, 1992), place attachment is considered an affective bond to a space, and place identity a subcomponent of identity. People frequently live in different cities throughout their lives, even different cities at the same time, dwelling in one city and working in another, or studying in a different city from their weekend or holiday residence in the case of undergraduate students. The main goal of this study is to find out how these patterns of residential mobility affect place identity and attachment, and to contrast the relationship between these two concepts. In order to explore this area, a questionnaire was applied to a sample of 666 undergraduate students in Barcelona (Spain) with different residential mobility patterns to confirm the two-factor structure of the proposed instrument and answer other questions regarding the neighbourhood, city and region of residence during term time. Our results support the hypothesis that residential mobility, in terms of higher or lower mobility regarding the place of residence during term time, affects place attachment and identity differently in the three levels of environment analyzed
Apego al lugar, identidad de lugar y movilidad residencial en estudiantes de grado
Authors: Vidal Tomeu , Valera Sergi , Peró Maribel
Published: November 2011

En este estudio se examina cómo inciden los patrones de movilidad residencial en el apego al lugar y la identidad de lugar. De acuerdo con Hernández, Hidalgo, Salazar-Laplace y Hess (2007), entre otras aportaciones que han abordado la relación entre estos conceptos (Knez, 2005; Kyle, Graefe y Manning, 2005; Jorgensen y Stedman, 2001; Lalli, 1992), consideramos el apego al lugar como un vínculo afectivo con el espacio y la identidad de lugar como un componente de la identidad. Con frecuencia las personas viven en diferentes ciudades a lo largo de su vida, incluso en diferentes ciudades al mismo tiempo, viviendo en una ciudad y trabajando en otra, o estudiando en una ciudad diferente de su lugar de residencia los fines de semana o periodos vacacionales en el caso de estudiantes universitarios. El objetivo principal de este estudio es el de conocer los efectos de estos patrones de movilidad residencial en la identidad y el apego a los lugares, además de contrastar la relación de estos dos conceptos. Para ello se aplicó un cuestionario a una muestra de 666 estudiantes universitarios, con diferentes patrones de movilidad residencial, con el fin de confirmar la estructura con dos factores del instrumento propuesto y responder al resto de interrogantes en relación al barrio, la ciudad y la región de residencia durante el curso. Los resultados permiten mantener la hipótesis de que la movilidad residencial, en términos de mayor o menor movilidad en torno al lugar de residencia durante el curso, incide de manera diferente en el apego y la identidad de lugar en los tres niveles de entornos analizados
Lighting in Sick Building Syndrome: Urban and rural environments
Authors: Tonello Graciela , Kirschbaum Carlos
Published: November 2011

Sick Building Syndrome (SBS) is characterized by a significant proportion of people experiencing allergy-like symptoms that disappear or diminish when they leave the building. The exact causes remain unknown and the inclusion of lighting into SBS models deserves further research

Within this context, the field study described here measured different environmental variables and their perception, especially lighting, in 97 urban and rural users. This research provides data and results in order to contribute to a more holistic model of SBS, which could be useful to architects and designers interested in meeting the needs of users
Envejecimiento de la población y cambio climático: el caso de las comunidades costeras del Reino Unido
Authors: Fernández-Bilbao Amalia
Published: November 2011

El cambio climático y el envejecimiento de la población constituyen dos desafíos a los que Europa tendrá que enfrentarse en las próximas décadas. Las personas mayores son potencialmente más vulnerables a los efectos del cambio climático, como las olas de calor y las inundaciones. Este trabajo resume los resultados de dos recientes proyectos de investigación que estudiaron los efectos potenciales del clima en las comunidades costeras del Reino Unido y su adaptación a ellos. El primer estudio (Zsamboky et al., 2011) exploraba la vulnerabilidad de las comunidades costeras desfavorecidas del Reino Unido al cambio climático. El segundo estudio (Fernández-Bilbao et al., 2009) pretendía identificar los obstáculos y las oportunidades que subyacen a la implicación de las comunidades costeras en la planificación de la adaptación al cambio climático. Ambos estudios mostraron niveles especialmente bajos de concienciación en las personas mayores sobre el cambio climático, lo que puede afectar a su capacidad de adaptación e incrementar su vulnerabilidad. En el futuro, la comunicación sobre el cambio climático debe tener en cuenta estos obstáculos para la concienciarían y la acción. Los resultados también son relevantes para los entornos urbanos no costeros
Introducción de la Editora invitada
Authors: Alves Susana
Published: November 2011

Este número especial, dedicado al estudio de las relaciones entre envejecimiento y ambiente, presenta investigaciones realizadas tanto en Norteamérica como en Europa, que examinan el papel de los lugares urbanos y rurales y su influencia en la salud y bienestar psicológico de las personas mayores. Los artículos publicados en este número muestran la forma en que los ambientes urbanos y rurales, en distintos contextos culturales, restringen o promueven la calidad de vida y bienestar de las personas mayores. Estos trabajos incluyen un modelo de vida cotidiana para conceptualizar las relaciones persona-ambiente, la vulnerabilidad al cambio climático en las áreas costeras, el apoyo comunitario entre residentes urbanos y rurales, la presencia de algún tipo de discapacidad (p. ej. movilidad, visión) o un problema emocional duradero (p. ej. depresión) y su relación con la realización de actividades y finalmente, actitudes psicosociales y ambientales duraderas de las personas mayores en relación con el cambio de residencia
Los determinantes psicológicos de las actitudes hacia el traslado en las personas mayores: una encuesta en entornos urbanos y rurales
Authors: Cerina Veronica , Fornara Ferdinando
Published: November 2011

El propósito de este estudio es analizar y comparar las distintas respuestas individuales, psicosociales y psico- ambientales de personas mayores que residen en diferentes entornos. El marco conceptual de referencia es el Modelo de Complementariedad-Congruencia entre la persona y su entorno (Carp y Carp, 1984), que examina los cambios importantes en la relación entre una persona y su entorno a lo largo de su vida, prestando especial atención a los procesos de envejecimiento. Los participantes (N = 201 de más de 65 años, procedentes de entornos urbanos y rurales) rellenaron un cuestionario que evaluaba una serie de medidas. Se encontraron diferencias significativas entre las personas mayores de procedencia rural y las de procedencia urbana en bienestar psicológico, entorno social, identidad colectiva, y actitudes hacia el traslado. La dimensión psicosocial y la psicoambiental ejercen mayor influencia que la dimensión individual y la intrapersonal sobre las actitudes hacia los traslados por períodos cortos y largos. En concreto, una mayor competencia ambiental, un menor apego al lugar y un entorno social más pobre se asocian con actitudes hacia el traslado, tanto por períodos largos como por períodos cortos. Por último, la competencia ambiental resultó ser el antecedente más importante del bienestar psicológico