bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Components of oviduct physiology in eutherian mammals
Authors: Hunter R.H.F.
Published: August 2011

Recalling the evolutionary sequence of development first of gonad and subsequently of oviducts, ovarian endocrine regulation of all known components of oviduct physiology is reviewed. Ovaries not only influence oviducts via the systemic blood circulation, but also locally by counter‐current transfer of relatively high concentrations of steroid hormones and prostaglandins between the ovarian vein and oviduct branch of the ovarian artery. The efficiency and impact of such counter‐current transfer is greatest around the time of ovulation, the transfer process receiving further inputs from hormones present in peritoneal fluid. Classical oviduct physiology is summarised, and the potential molecular consequences of temperature gradients within the duct lumen examined.

At ovulation, an oocyte‐cumulus complex is displaced in minutes from the follicular surface to the site of fertilisation at the ampullary‐isthmic junction of the oviduct. This rapid initial phase is contrasted with the subsequent slow progression of embryos to the uterus in days, still encompassed within a zona pellucida. Regarding transport of spermatozoa, the formation of a pre‐ovulatory reservoir in the caudal portion of the oviduct isthmus is noted, with suppression of motility and sperm‐head binding to epithelial organelles acting to maintain fertilising ability. Completion of capacitation is prompted shortly before ovulation, predominantly by Ca2+ influx into bound spermatozoa. A controlled release of spermatozoa coupled with their hyperactivation results in initial sperm:egg ratios at the site of fertilisation close to unity, thereby avoiding the pathological condition of polyspermy.

Both the oviduct milieu and embryonic development are influenced by paracrine activity of follicular granulosa cells released at ovulation and remaining in suspension in the vicinity of the oocyte or embryo. These cells may amplify early pregnancy signals from a zygote to the endosalpinx. Beneficial effects of the oviduct on domestic animal embryos are contrasted with anomalies arising as a consequence of in vitro culture. Primate embryos do not require exposure to an oviduct for normal development, perhaps due to overlapping compositions of endosalpingeal and endometrial secretions. Additionally, primate endometrial secretions may be modified by viable gametes or an embryo in the presence of a cumulus cell suspension.
Alkaline Phosphatase Gene Sequence And Transcriptional Regulation By Phosphate Limitation In Amphidinium Carterae (Dinophyceae)1
Authors: Lin Xin , Zhang Huan , Huang Bangqin , Lin Senjie
Published: August 2011

Alkaline phosphatase (AP) in phytoplankton facilitates the utilization of dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP) when the dissolved inorganic phosphorus (DIP) is limited in the environment. The AP gene sequence and its expression under DIP limitation has not been studied in dinoflagellates. In this study, we isolated the full‐length cDNA of AP from the toxic dinoflagellate Amphidinium carterae Hulburt (2,112 bp, named as acaap). The deduced amino acid sequence of acaap (ACAAP, 704 amino acid residues) was identified as a membrane‐associated protein, in agreement with the dominantly cell surface localization of the AP activity shown with enzyme‐labeled fluorescence (ELF) labeling. ACAAP shares sequence similarity in the key domains with APs from diatoms, proteobacteria, and cyanobacteria. In accordance, phylogenetic reconstruction showed clustering of ACAAP with counterparts in those organisms, although branches were long as a result of the generally high variability of the gene sequence. The expression levels of acaap were studied for A. carterae cultured in media with different phosphate concentrations using quantitative reverse‐transcription PCR (RT‐qPCR) method. The result showed that the transcription level of acaap was elevated in the DIP‐depleted cultures relative to the DIP‐replete cultures and repressed upon resupply of DIP. The transcription level of acaap exhibited a positive correlation with AP enzyme activity. Taken together, these results demonstrate that AP activity and gene expression are regulated by the availability of DIP in A. carterae, suggesting that AP expression is a promising indicator of DIP stress in this and possibly other species of dinoflagellates.
Landscape context affects the relationship between local and landscape species richness of butterflies in semi‐natural habitats
Authors: Ekroos Johan , Kuussaari Mikko
Published: August 2011

Local species richness of butterflies can be expected to benefit from both local habitat properties as well as the availability of suitable habitats and source populations in the surrounding landscape. Whether local species richness is dependent on local or landscape factors can be assessed by examining the relationship between local and landscape species richness. Here we studied how local species richness is related to landscape‐level species richness in landscapes differing in agricultural intensity. The relationship was linear for field boundaries in intensively cultivated landscapes and non‐linear in less‐intensively cultivated landscapes. In landscapes containing semi‐natural grasslands (on average 4% of overall land‐use), the relationship was non‐linear for field boundaries, but linear when considering local species richness of the grasslands themselves. These results show that local factors are more important than landscape factors in determining local species richness in landscapes which contained semi‐natural grasslands. Local species richness was limited by landscape factors in intensively cultivated landscapes. This interpretation was supported by the relationship between local species richness and landscape‐scale average mobility and generalist percentage of butterfly assemblages. We conclude that the management of field boundary habitat quality for butterflies is expected to be most effective in landscapes with semi‐natural grasslands, the species composition of which in turn is dependent on the regional occurrence of grasslands. Based on our results, managing non‐crop habitats for the conservation of habitat specialists and species with poor mobility will be most efficient in regions where patches of semi‐natural grasslands occur.
Spatial Guidance of Cell Asymmetry: SeptinGTPases Show the Way
Authors: Spiliotis Elias T. , Gladfelter Amy S.
Published: August 2011

Eukaryotic cells develop asymmetric shapes suited for specific physiological functions. Morphogenesis of polarized domains and structures requires the amplification of molecular asymmetries by scaffold proteins and regulatory feedback loops. Small monomericGTPases signal polarity, but how their downstream effectors and targets are spatially co‐ordinated to break cell symmetry is poorly understood. Septins comprise a novel family ofGTPases that polymerize into non‐polar filamentous structures which scaffold and restrict protein localization. Recent studies show that septins demarcate distinct plasma membrane domains and cytoskeletal tracks, enabling the formation of intracellular asymmetries. Here, we review these findings and discuss emerging mechanisms by which septins promote cell asymmetry in fungi and animals.

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Differential effects of escitalopram administration on metabolic parameters of cortical and subcortical brain regions of Wistar rats
Authors: Gonçalves Cinara L. , Rezin Gislaine T. , Ferreira Gabriela K. , Jeremias Isabela C. , Cardoso Mariane R. , Carvalho-Silva Milena , Zugno Alexandra I. , Quevedo João , Streck Emilio L.
Published: August 2011

Objective:Considering that mitochondria may be drug targets and some characteristics of drug–mitochondria interactions may still be misjudged because of the difficulty in foreseeing and understanding all possible implications of the complex pathophysiology of mitochondria, our study aimed to investigate the effect of escitalopram on the activity of enzymes of mitochondrial energy metabolism.

Methods:Animals received daily administration of escitalopram dissolved in saline [10 mg/kg, intraperitoneal (IP)] at 1.0 ml/kg volume for 14 days. Control rats received an equivalent volume of saline, 1.0 ml/kg (IP), for the same treatment period. Twelve hours after last injection, rats were killed by decapitation and brain areas were rapidly isolated. The samples were homogenised and the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, some enzymes of Krebs cycle (citrate synthase, malate dehydrogenase and succinate dehydrogenase) and creatine kinase were measured.

Results:We verified that chronic administration of escitalopram decreased the activities of complexes I and II–III in cerebellum, hippocampus, striatum and posterior cortex whereas prefrontal cortex was not affected. Complex II activity was decreased only in striatum without affecting prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum and posterior cortex. However, chronic administration of escitalopram did not affect complex IV and enzymes of Krebs cycle activities as well as creatine kinase.

Conclusion:In this study we showed a decrease in the activities of complexes I and II–III in most of the brain structures analysed and complex II activity was decreased only in striatum. However, it remains to be determined if mitochondrial dysfunction is rather a causal or a consequential event of abnormal signalling.
Management of Group B streptococcal sepsis risk in well, term newborns
Authors: Behjati S , Prentice P , Rennie J
Published: August 2011

Aim:  To investigate how clinically well, term newborns at risk of early‐onset Group B streptococcal (EOGBS) disease are currently managed in the United Kingdom (UK).

Methods:  Review of guidelines of UK neonatal units.

Results:  One hundred and twenty‐five guidelines covering 157 neonatal units were received (71% of UK units), three of which were excluded from the review. We found great variation in every aspect for the management of EOGBS disease risk including the following: definition of risk factors; management of at‐risk newborns; choice of antibiotics.

Conclusion:  Our findings highlight the need for national consensus guidelines and clinical trials into the management of risk babies at risk of EOGBS disease.
Development of smooth pursuit eye movements in very preterm born infants: 3. Association with perinatal risk factors
Authors: Strand Brodd Katarina , Grönqvist Helena , Holmström Gerd , Grönqvist Erik , Rosander Kerstin , Ewald Uwe
Published: August 2011

Aim:  To investigate the association between perinatal risk factors and neonatal complications and early oculo‐motor development in very preterm infants.

Methods:  Perinatal risk factors were identified, and the potential association with early oculo‐motor development was evaluated by measuring smooth pursuit eye movements (SP) at 2 and 4 months’ corrected age (CA) in a population of very preterm infants born in Uppsala County 2004–2007 (n = 113).

Results:  Among the 15 tested factors, eight showed significant association in univariate analysis with lower levels of SP at 4 months’ CA, namely administration of prenatal corticosteroids, gestational age, birthweight, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity, periventricular leukomalacia, intraventricular haemorrhage >grade 2, and persistent ductus arteriosus. At 2 months’ CA, only retinopathy of prematurity >stage 2 was associated with lower levels of SP. When all factors significant in the univariate tests were included in multiple regressions aimed to assess each factor’s independent relation to SP, periventricular leukomalacia was the only significant independent factor. When adding 2–5 of the significant factors using multiple regression analysis, the levels of SP became lower.

Conclusion:  Perinatal risk factors were associated with lower levels of SP. This could be interpreted as delayed or disturbed development of normal oculomotor ability.
The efficacy of a topical gel with triester glycerol oxide in denture‐related mucosal injuries
Authors: Geckili Onur , Bektas‐Kayhan Kivanc , Eren Pinar , Bilgin Tayfun , Unur Meral
Published: August 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00549.x
 
The efficacy of a topical gel with triester glycerol oxide in denture‐related mucosal injuries

Objective:  The efficacy of a topical gel with triester glycerol oxide for treating ulcerations related to new complete dentures was studied and compared with a placebo gel.

Materials and methods:  Fifty edentulous patients were enrolled in this double‐blind clinical study. All subjects received new maxillary and mandibular complete dentures and were recalled 1, 3 and 7 days after denture placement. Twenty‐five subjects received topical gel with triester glycerol oxide (TGO), and 25 subjects received topical gel without TGO. At each visit, pain and discomfort with the new dentures was assessed, and at the last visit, healing of ulcerations was also graded by a clinician. Subjects also graded the gel’s taste, smell and ease of use.

Results:  Specifically, there was no statistically significant difference in ulcer healing (p > 0.05), ratings of smell, taste and ease of use (p > 0.05) or pain and discomfort scores (p > 0.05). However, within‐group differences were observed in pain and discomfort scores between follow‐up sessions (p = 0.01 for all comparisons).

Conclusion:  Clinically, TGO gel is not effective in the treatment of mucosal injuries occurring following placement of complete dentures.
Efficacy and tolerability of weekly low‐dose cisplatin concurrent with radiotherapy in head and neck cancer patients
Authors: OTTY Zulfiquer , SKINNER Monika Buhrer , DASS Joshua , COLLINS Michael , MOOI Jennifer , THURAISINGAM Kandeepan , SABESAN Sabe
Published: August 2011

Aims:  In this retrospective analysis, we describe the efficacy and tolerability of weekly cisplatin 40 mg/m2 used in concurrent chemoradiation of head and neck cancer at the Townsville Cancer Centre.

Methods:  Review of medical records of patients who received radical chemoradiotherapy for head and neck cancer at Townsville Cancer Centre from 2003 to 2009.

Results:  In all 102 patients were analysed, 62 of whom had definitive chemoradiation and the remainder adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Median follow up was 20.1 months (range 5–86 months). Overall 68.6% of patients received 5 weeks or more of planned chemotherapy. Radiotherapy interruptions occurred in four (6.4%) patients. The rate of grade 3–4 adverse events was 51% including neutropenia (18.6%), mucositis (21.8%) and dysphagia (12.9%) and 30.7% of patients needed hospital admission to manage toxicities. For definitive and adjuvant groups, estimated 3‐year survival was 64.5 and 71.5%, respectively, and estimated 3‐year disease‐specific survival rates were 70.3 and 81.6%, respectively. The 3‐year overall survival for patients who received five or more cycles of chemotherapy was 75.2%, compared to 52.6% for those receiving fewer than five cycles (P = 0.018).

Conclusion:  Despite this is being a small retrospective study, survival figures and toxicity profiles of low dose weekly cisplatin are comparable to historical controls using high‐dose regimens, hence justifying our approach. In addition, radiotherapy interruptions are minimized and cisplatin is easy to administer in outpatient settings. Future three‐arm studies could include this regimen as the basis of treatment combined with targeted therapies.
Very high GFR in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy: prevalence, carboplatin dosing patterns and chemotherapy toxicity
Authors: ROY Amitesh Chandra , JONES David Neil , SLAVOTINEK John P , KICHENADASSE Ganessan , KARAPETIS Chris , LAM Earl , BISHNOI Sarwan , KOCZWARA Bogda
Published: August 2011

Aim:  Carboplatin dosing depends on accurate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) estimation. There is a lack of clinical agreement about carboplatin dosing when the GFR measurement is very high (>110 mL/min).

Methods:  A retrospective audit of pre‐chemotherapy 99m technetium (Tc) diethylenetriamene pentaacetate (DTPA) radionuclide GFR estimations and patients' chart review were performed from January 2006 to May 2009. The primary objective was to determine the prevalence of patients with a high GFR and the incidence of myelotoxicity in this group.

Results:  Overall 18 of 148 treated patients (14%) measured GFR >110mL/min. The GFR values of six of the 18 patients were capped for dose calculation. In eight patients a measured GFR corrected for body surface area was used and in four the actual measured GFR was used for dose calculation. In total, 63 cycles of chemotherapy were delivered. Grade III or IV myelotoxicity accounted for 37% (15/41) of all myelotoxicities. Neutropenia accounted for almost 39% of all myelotoxicities (16/41). Two patients (11%) were hospitalized due to febrile neutropenia. Eight patients (40%) had dose reduction and four (20%) had treatment delays due to myelotoxicity. The frequency of myelotoxicity was high irrespective of the GFR used (corrected or uncorrected) in calculating the chemotherapy dose.

Conclusion:  High values of GFR, by 99mTc DTPA radionuclide measurement, are a common finding in pre‐chemotherapy patients irrespective of age. Carboplatin dosing patterns in this group of patients vary among treating oncologists and a standardized approach is needed.
INVESTIGATION OF EMPIRICAL AND FUNDAMENTAL SOBA NOODLE TEXTURE PARAMETERS PREPARED WITH TARTARY, GREEN TESTA AND COMMON BUCKWHEAT
Authors: HATCHER D.W. , BELLIDO G.G , ANDERSON M.J. , DEXTER J.E. , HEAD D. , IZYDORCZYK M.
Published: August 2011

Soba noodles were prepared from brown tartary, green testa and two common buckwheat variety flours with Canada Western Red Spring flour (13.0% protein) and a lower protein (11.5%), but stronger dough strength, Canada Prairie Spring Red (CPSR) flour. Empirical, fundamental and the new Elastic Index (EI) parameter all demonstrated that the lower protein, stronger gluten CPSR variety 5701, yielded superior textural attributes. Tartary buckwheat flour noodle blends' empirical texture results (maximum cutting stress, resistance to compression and recovery) indicated they produced soba noodles with superior texture than the other buckwheat flours because of the lower level of dietary fiber, elevated starch content and lower cooking water uptake. Fundamental tests, such as stress relaxation percent at 20 s, extent of relaxation (K2), loading work and unloading work of tartary buckwheat noodles showed significant differences from the other buckwheat noodles. Among soba noodles, tartary buckwheat noodles had significantly greater (P < 0.05) elastic‐like properties (higher K2 and EI). The EI parameter was significantly correlated (P < 0.005) with all empirical and fundamental rheological parameters.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Whereas noodle manufacturers prefer local sensory panels to evaluate the texture characteristics of new noodle products, such evaluations provide little insight into the underlying reasons for the panelist preferences. Traditional empirical mechanical tests – maximum cutting stress, recovery and resistance to compression – have not proven to offer the level of discernment required by the industry. Fundamental mechanical properties offer the ability to provide improved discrimination, as well as an understanding of the role of the biochemical components in addressing the noodle's texture.
FUNDAMENTAL FRACTURE PROPERTIES ASSOCIATED WITH SENSORY HARDNESS OF BRITTLE SOLID FOODS
Authors: KIM ESTHER H‐J. , CORRIGAN VIRGINIA K. , WILSON ARRAN J. , WATERS IAN R. , HEDDERLEY DUNCAN I. , MORGENSTERN MARCO P.
Published: August 2011

A series of biscuit‐like model foods that vary primarily in hardness, while keeping other sensory attributes less variable, was developed and used to investigate the relationship between fundamental fracture properties and the sensory perception of hardness of brittle solid foods. Fifteen biscuit samples were evaluated by both a trained sensory panel and three instrumental tests (three‐point bending test, single‐edge notched bend test and modified texture profile analysis), and their relationships were determined by simple linear regression analysis. Correlations revealed that the perceived hardness during biting or chewing is fracture related, and it is directly related to the amount of stress required to initiate and propagate a crack in a material (i.e., fracture stress [σ] and critical stress intensity factor [KIC], respectively). The fracturing of these hard and brittle biscuits appeared to be associated with the release of energy as sound, and thus, the perceived hardness and crunchiness were indistinguishable.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

Sensory evaluation is time consuming and expensive, and, therefore, reliable and practical (faster, less expensive and reproducible) instrumental methods are needed to accurately predict sensory texture attributes, at least, in the product development and quality control stages. This study demonstrated that the perceived hardness of biscuits can be tracked by σ and KIC with remarkable precision. These properties may be used as a reliable replacement for a sensory assessment of hardness in brittle solid foods, where applicable.
Just what the doctor ordered: Moving forward with electronic health records
Authors: O'SULLIVAN Therese A. , BILLING Nathan A. , STOKES David
Published: August 2011

Aim:  To provide dietitians with information on the proposed introduction of electronic medical records in Australia and New Zealand and discuss potential benefits and challenges.

Methods:  An overview of the current status regarding electronic health (e‐health) records is given along with suggestions on how dietitians may like to become involved. Information was obtained by literature review and through contact with the National E‐Health Transition Authority in Australia and the National Health Information Technology Board in New Zealand.

Results:  Governments in both Australia and New Zealand are dedicated to the establishment of national electronic health record systems. Current issues in founding such a system include interoperability with existing systems, privacy concerns and the use of standardised terminologies.

Conclusion:  Integrated and practical e‐health records are an important part of an efficient and sustainable health system. Dietitians wishing to be involved can learn about the International Dietetics and Nutrition Terminology, actively seek and contribute to technology discussions in their workplace and register with available e‐health record initiatives.
Self‐reported oral health of a metropolitan homeless population in Australia: comparisons with population‐level data
Authors: Parker EJ , Jamieson LM , Steffens MA , Cathro P , Logan RM
Published: August 2011

Background:  There is limited information on self‐perceived oral health of homeless populations. This study quantified self‐reported oral health among a metropolitan homeless adult population and compared against a representative sample of the metropolitan adult population obtained from the National Survey of Adult Oral Health.

Methods:  A total of 248 homeless participants (age range 17–78 years, 79% male) completed a self‐report questionnaire. Data for an age‐matched, representative sample of metropolitan‐dwelling adults were obtained from Australia’s second National Survey of Adult Oral Health. Percentage responses and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, with non‐overlapping 95% confidence intervals used to identify statistically significant differences between the two groups.

Results:  Homeless adults reported poorer oral health than their age‐matched general population counterparts. Twice as many homeless adults reported visiting a dentist more than a year ago and that their usual reason for dental attendance was for a dental problem. The proportion of homeless adults with a perceived need for fillings or extractions was also twice that of their age‐matched general population counterparts. Three times as many homeless adults rated their oral health as ‘fair’ or ‘poor’.

Conclusions:  A significantly greater proportion of homeless adults in an Australian metropolitan location reported poorer oral health compared with the general metropolitan adult population.
Inhibition of motility in isolated horse small intestine is mediated by κ but not µ opioid receptors
Authors: MENOZZI A. , POZZOLI C. , ZULLIAN C. , POLI E. , SERVENTI P. , BERTINI S.
Published: August 2011

The effects of preferential µ (morphine), selective µ (fentanyl), selective κ (compound U69593) opioid receptor agonists, and nonselective (naloxone) and selective µ (naloxonazine) antagonists on equine small intestinal motility were evaluatedin vitro. Samples of circular muscle from equine jejunum were placed in isolated organ baths and drug‐induced modifications of both spontaneous and electrically evoked contractile activity were measured. None of the opioid agonists induced a significant change in spontaneous contractions. Fentanyl and U69593 reduced electrically induced contractions, whereas morphine reduced them only slightly. Naloxone competitively antagonised U69593, but both naloxone and naloxonazine were unable to counteract the inhibition of contractions induced by fentanyl. The inhibition of contractions shown by fentanyl is therefore probably not mediated by opioid receptors, but due to an anticholinergic activity of this drug. In summary, these data showed an inhibitory effect exerted by κ receptors on equine small intestinal motility, whereas the role of µ receptors seemed marginal and would need further characterisation.
Management of hindlimb proximal suspensory desmopathy by neurectomy of the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve and plantar fasciotomy: 155 horses (2003–2008)
Authors: DYSON S. , MURRAY R.
Published: August 2011

Reasons for performing study:Neurectomy of the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve and plantar fasciotomy have become accepted as methods of treatment of proximal suspensory desmopathy (PSD), but there are limited long‐term studies documenting the outcome.

Objectives:To describe long‐term follow‐up in horses with PSD alone or with other injuries contributing to lameness and poor performance, including complications, following neurectomy and fasciotomy.

Methods:Follow‐up information was acquired for 155 horses that had undergone neurectomy and fasciotomy for treatment of PSD between 2003 and 2008. Success was classified as a horse having been in full work for >1 year post operatively. Horses were divided into 3 groups on the basis of the results of clinical assessment and diagnostic analgesia. Horses inGroup 1had primary PSD and no other musculoskeletal problem. Horses inGroup 2had primary PSD in association with straight hock conformation and/or hyperextension of the metatarsophalangeal joint. Horses inGroup 3had PSD and other problems contributing to lameness or poor performance.

Results:InGroup 1, 70 of 90 horses (77.8%) had a successful outcome, whereas inGroup 3,23 of 52 horses (44.2%) returned to full function for >1 year. Complications included iatrogenic damage to the plantar aspect of the suspensory ligament, seroma formation, residual curb‐like swellings and the development of white hairs. All horses inGroup 2remained lame.

Conclusions and clinical relevance:There is a role for neurectomy of the deep branch of the lateral plantar nerve and plantar fasciotomy for long‐term management of hindlimb PSD, but a prerequisite for successful management requires recognition of risk factors for poor outcome including conformation features of straight hock or fetlock hyperextension.
The adaptation and validation of the CEQ and the R‐SPQ‐2F to the Japanese tertiary environment
Authors: Fryer Luke K. , Ginns Paul , Walker Richard A. , Nakao Kaori
Published: August 2011

Background. Student learning theory (SLT) has established associations between students’ approaches to learning and their perceptions of the learning environment. SLT may provide a useful framework for researching student learning within the Japanese tertiary sector.

Aims. The study aims to explore and validate the Course Experience Questionnaire (CEQ) and the Revised Study Process Questionnaire (R‐SPQ‐2F) in the Japanese four‐year tertiary context.

Sample. Mixed‐major students from one Japanese four‐year tertiary institution voluntarily completed the CEQ (n= 370). A separate group of students completed the CEQ and R‐SPQ‐2F (n= 269).

Methods. CEQ data from the first sample were analysed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). CEQ and R‐SPQ‐2F data from the second sample were analysed using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).

Results. EFA of the CEQ resulted in four factors: Good Teaching (GT), Generic Skills (GS), Appropriate Workload (AW), and Appropriate Assessment (AA). CFA confirmed these factors with the second sample. CFA of the R‐SPQ‐2F resulted in an item parcel‐based, two‐factor model. Correlations between some CEQ and R‐SPQ‐2F constructs were consistent with previous results. However, other findings from this research suggest that SLT constructs may be constituted differently in the Japanese context.

Conclusions. This study represents an initial investigation of key SLT constructs in the Japanese context. Results suggest some SLT constructs are meaningful in this context, but further scale development may be desirable before more advanced modeling is employed.
A model for the source of the baryonic Tully–Fisher relationship and the Pioneer anomaly
Authors: Penner A. Raymond
Published: August 2011

It is shown that basic hypotheses regarding the nature of the source of the observed gravitational anomalies lead naturally to both the baryonic Tully–Fisher relationship and the Pioneer anomaly. A theory where the gravitational field of a mass induces a gravitational field contribution from the cosmos fits well with these hypotheses. In line with this, a theory is presented where particle–antiparticle pairs exist throughout the cosmos, with a lifetime in accordance with Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle. These particle–antiparticle pairs are displaced in the presence of a gravitational field and contribute to the overall gravitational field of a given mass. The modeled contribution agrees with the baryonic Tully–Fisher relationship, the Pioneer anomaly, and the absence of any anomalous gravitational field within the inner solar system.
Field emission of electrons from spherical conducting carbon nanotube tip including the effect of image force
Authors: Sharma Suresh C. , Tewari Aarti
Published: August 2011

An expression for the potential energy and field emission current density function of spherical conducting carbon nanotubes (CNTs), including the effect of image force, corresponding to the expression for the electron transmission coefficient obtained from the solution of the time-independent Schrödinger equation, has been derived. Numerical calculations of the potential energy, transmission coefficient, and the current density function have been carried out for the typical set of CNT parameters. It is found that the potential energy decreases with radial distance when image force is ignored. When image force is incorporated, it increases with radial distance in the beginning and then decreases. The transmission probability and the current density function increase, both with the normalized radial energy and normalized Fermi energy, but both the transmission probability and the current density function are larger in the presence of the image force for given values of the normalized radial energy and the normalized Fermi energy. In addition, the image force decreases the applied value of the field. The field emission current density function of emitted electrons decreases with the spherical CNT tip radius. Some of our theoretical results are in accordance with existing experimental observations.
MODIFICATION OF STRUCTURAL AND TRANSPORT PROPERTIES OF LAYERED LixNi1-y-zCoyMnzO2 CATHODE MATERIALS
Authors: MILEWSKA ANNA , MOLENDA JANINA
Published: August 2011

Structural and transport properties of pristine Li x Ni 1-y-z Co y Mn z O 2 (y = 0.25, 0.35, 0.5, 0.6; z = 0.1, 0.2) and LiNi 0.63 Cu 0.02 Co 0.25 Mn 0.1 O 2 materials are presented. Among LiNi 1-y-z Co y Mn z O 2 pristine oxides, LiNi 0.65 Co 0.25 Mn 0.1 O 2 presents the best transport properties. Strong decrease of electrical conductivity of Li x Ni 0.65 Co 0.25 Mn 0.1 O 2 and Li x Ni 0.55 Co 0.35 Mn 0.1 O 2 compositions upon lithium deintercalation was observed. Cu doping in LiNi 0.63 Cu 0.02 Co 0.25 Mn 0.1 O 2 improves the transport properties during deintercalation process. Li x Ni 0.65 Co 0.25 Mn 0.1 O 2 and Li x Ni 0.63 Cu 0.02 Co 0.25 Mn 0.1 O 2 retain structural stability up to x Li = 0.35 mol.
Polyphenols, isothiocyanates, and carotenoid derivatives enhance estrogenic activity in bone cells but inhibit it in breast cancer cells
Authors: Veprik Anna , Khanin Marina , Linnewiel-Hermoni Karin , Danilenko Michael , Levy Joseph , Sharoni Yoav
Published: August 2011

While exposure to estrogens is a major risk factor of breast and endometrial cancer, it well established that estrogens are beneficial for bone health. We have previously shown that carotenoids inhibit estrogen signaling in breast and endometrial cancer cells. The aim of this study was to compare the effects of various phytonutrients, (carotenoid derivatives, polyphenols, isothiocyanates) on estrogenic activity in breast cancer cells and osteoblast-like cells. All the tested phytonutrients inhibited estrogen response element (ERE) transactivation in breast cancer cells. In contrast, these compounds either did not affect or enhanced ERE activity and the expression of several bone-forming genes. These results were obtained using two osteoblast-like cell lines, MG-63 human osteosarcoma cells stably transfected with estrogen receptor-α (ERα) and MC3T3-E1 mouse calvaria-derived cells expressing endogenous ER. Phytonutrients-induced ERE inhibition in breast cancer cells, and its potentiation in osteoblast-like cells were associated both with a decrease and a rise in total and nuclear ERα levels, respectively. Phytonutrients activated the electrophile/antioxidant response element (EpRE/ARE) transcription system to various extents in both cancer and bone cell lines. Overexpression of Nrf2, the major EpRE/ARE activating transcription factor, mimicked the effects of phytonutrients, causing inhibition and enhancement of ERE transactivation in breast cancer cells and in osteoblast-like cells, respectively. Moreover, reduction in Nrf2 levels by RNAi led to a decrease in the phytonutrient potentiation of ERE activity transactivation in osteoblast-like cells. These findings suggest that the enhancement and inhibition of estrogen signaling by phytonutrients in bone-derived cells and breast cancer cells, respectively, is partially mediated by the activation of the Nrf2/ARE system.
Conditional disruption of IGF-I gene in type 1α collagen-expressing cells shows an essential role of IGF-I in skeletal anabolic response to loading
Authors: Kesavan Chandrasekhar , Wergedal Jon E. , Lau K.-H. William , Mohan Subburaman
Published: August 2011

To establish a causal role for locally produced IGF-I in the mechanical strain response in the bone, we have generated mice with conditional disruption of the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) I gene in type 1α2 collagen-expressing cells using the Cre-loxP approach. At 10 wk of age, loads adjusted to account for bone size difference were applied via four-point bending or axial loading (AL) in mice. Two wk of bending and AL produced significant increases in bone mineral density and bone size at the middiaphysis of wild-type (WT), but not knockout (KO), mice. In addition, AL produced an 8–25% increase in trabecular parameters (bone volume-tissue volume ratio, trabecular thickness, and trabecular bone mineral density) at the secondary spongiosa of WT, but not KO, mice. Histomorphometric analysis at the trabecular site revealed that AL increased osteoid width by 60% and decreased tartrate-resistance acidic phosphatase-labeled surface by 50% in the WT, but not KO, mice. Consistent with the in vivo data, blockade of IGF-I action with inhibitory IGF-binding protein (IGFBP4) in vitro completely abolished the fluid flow stress-induced MC3T3-E1 cell proliferation. One-way ANOVA revealed that expression levels of EFNB1, EFNB2, EFNA2, EphB2, and NR4a3 were different in the loaded bones of WT vs. KO mice and may, in part, be responsible for the increase in bone response to loading in the WT mice. In conclusion, IGF-I expressed in type 1 collagen-producing bone cells is critical for converting mechanical signal to anabolic signal in bone, and other growth factors cannot compensate for the loss of local IGF-I.
Profiling target genes of FGF18 in the postnatal mouse lung: possible relevance for alveolar development
Authors: Franco-Montoya Marie-Laure , Boucherat Olivier , Thibault Christelle , Chailley-Heu Bernadette , Incitti Roberto , Delacourt Christophe , Bourbon Jacques R.
Published: August 2011

Better understanding alveolarization mechanisms could help improve prevention and treatment of diseases characterized by reduced alveolar number. Although signaling through fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptors is essential for alveolarization, involved ligands are unidentified. FGF18, the expression of which peaks coincidentally with alveolar septation, is likely to be involved. Herein, a mouse model with inducible, lung-targeted FGF18 transgene was used to advance the onset of FGF18 expression peak, and genome-wide expression changes were determined by comparison with littermate controls. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to confirm expression changes of selected up- and downregulated genes and to determine their expression profiles in the course of lung postnatal development. This allowed identifying so-far unknown target genes of the factor, among which a number are known to be involved in alveolarization. The major target was adrenomedullin, a promoter of lung angiogenesis and alveolar development, whose transcript was increased 6.9-fold. Other genes involved in angiogenesis presented marked expression increases, including Wnt2 and cullin2. Although it appeared to favor cell migration notably through enhanced expression of Snai1/2, FGF18 also induced various changes consistent with prevention of epithelial-mesenchymal transition. Together with antifibrotic effects driven by induction of E prostanoid receptor 2 and repression of numerous myofibroblast markers, this could prevent alveolar septation-driving mechanisms from becoming excessive and deleterious. Last, FGF18 up- or downregulated genes of extracellular matrix components and epithelial cell markers previously shown to be up- or downregulated during alveolarization. These findings therefore argue for an involvement of FGF18 in the control of various developmental events during the alveolar stage.
Priming of Mesenchymal Stem Cells with Oxytocin Enhances the Cardiac Repair in Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Kim Yong Sook , Ahn Youngkeun , Kwon Jin Sook , Cho Young Kuk , Jeong Myung Ho , Cho Jeong Gwan , Park Jong Chun , Kang Jung Chaee
Published: August 2011

Oxytocin stimulates the cardiomyogenesis of embryonic stem cells and adult cardiac stem cells. We previously reported that oxytocin has a promigratory effect on umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UCB-MSCs). In this study, UCB-MSCs were cultured with oxytocin and examined for their therapeutic effect in an infarcted heart. UCB-MSCs were pretreated with 100 nM oxytocin and cardiac markers were assessed by immunofluorescence staining. Next, oxytocin-supplemented USC-MSCs (OT-USCs) were cocultured with hypoxia/reoxygenated neonatal rat cardiomyocytes and cardiac markers and dye transfer were then examined. For the in vivo study, ischemia/reperfusion was induced in rats, and phosphate-buffered saline (group 1), 1-day OT-USCs (group 2), or 7-day OT-USCs (group 3) were injected into the infarcted myocardium. Two weeks after injection, histological changes and cardiac function were examined. UCB-MSCs expressed connexin 43 (Cnx43), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), and α-sarcomeric actin (α-SA) after oxytocin supplementation and coculture with cardiomyocytes. Functional gap junction formation was greater in group 3 than in groups 1 and 2. Cardiac fibrosis and macrophage infiltration were lower in group 3 than in group 2. Restoration of Cnx43 expression was greater in group 3 than in group 2. Cnx43- and cTnI-positive OT-USCs in the peri-infarct zone were observed in group 2 and more frequently in group 3. The ejection fraction (EF) was increased in groups 2 and 3 in 2 weeks. The improved EF was sustained for 4 weeks only in group 3. Our findings suggest that the supplementation of UCB-MSCs with oxytocin can contribute to the cardiogenic potential for cardiac repair.
Comments on Dietary Restriction, Okinawa Diet and Longevity
Authors: Gavrilova Natalia S. , Gavrilov Leonid A.
Published: August 2011

Longevity in Okinawa is considered to be a result of traditional low calorie diet. Le Bourg suggests that Okinawa is an example of severe malnutrition, which is harmful for later generations. We believe that current loss of longevity advantage in Okinawa is a result of diet westernization and that the dietary restriction is a valid way of life extension in humans.
Mycoplasma pneumoniae Infection Presenting as Bullous Papular Purpuric Gloves and Socks Syndrome
Authors: Pemira Sree Mallikarjuna , Tolan Robert W.
Published: August 2011

Papular purpuric gloves and socks syndrome (PPGSS) is a self-limited, often febrile illness with symmetric edema and erythema of the hands and feet; papular, petechial, and purpuric acral dermatosis; and mucosal lesions in children and young adults. Most of the cases of PPGSS have been reported to be caused by parvovirus B19 and other viruses. This study describes a case resulting from Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection in an adolescent male and reviews the literature.
Source Expertise and Persuasion
Authors: Clark Jason K. , Wegener Duane T. , Habashi Meara M. , Evans Abigail T.
Published: August 2011

Compared to nonexperts, expert sources have been considered to elicit more processing of persuasive messages because of expectations that the information is likely to be valid or accurate. However, depending on the position of an advocacy, source expertise could activate other motives that may produce a very different relation from that found in past research. When messages are counterattitudinal (disagreeable), experts should motivate greater processing than nonexpert sources because of expectations that they will likely provide robust opposition to one’s existing views. In contrast, when advocacies are proattitudinal (agreeable), nonexpert rather than expert sources should elicit more scrutiny because of perceptions that they will likely provide inadequate support to recipients’ current views. Two studies offer evidence consistent with these predictions. Manipulations of source expertise created different expectations regarding the strength of opposition or support, and these perceptions accounted for effects of source expertise on the amount of message scrutiny.
Dietary Salt Exacerbates Isoproterenol-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Rats
Authors: Carll Alex P. , Haykal-Coates Najwa , Winsett Darrell W. , Hazari Mehdi S. , Nyska Abraham , Richards Judy H. , Willis Monte S. , Costa Daniel L. , Farraj Aimen K.
Published: August 2011

Spontaneously hypertensive heart failure rats (SHHFs) take longer to develop compensated heart failure (HF) and congestive decompensation than common surgical models of HF. Isoproterenol (ISO) infusion can accelerate cardiomyopathy in young SHHFs, while dietary salt loading in hypertensive rats induces cardiac fibrosis, hypertrophy, and—in a minority—congestive HF. By combining ISO with dietary salt loading in young SHHFs, the authors sought a nonsurgical model that is more time- and resource-efficient than any of these factors alone. The authors hypothesized that salt loading would enhance ISO-accelerated cardiomyopathy, promoting fibrosis, hypertrophy, and biochemical characteristics of HF. SHHFs (lean male, 90d) were infused for 4 wk with ISO (2.5 mg/kg/day) or saline. After 2 wk of infusion, a 6-wk high-salt diet (4%, 6%, or 8% NaCl) was initiated. Eight percent salt increased heart weight, HF markers (plasma B-type natriuretic peptide, IL-6), lung lymphocytes, and indicators of lung injury and edema (albumin and protein) relative to control diet, while increasing urine pro-atrial natriuretic peptide relative to ISO-only. High salt also exacerbated ISO-cardiomyopathy and fibrosis. Thus, combining ISO infusion with dietary salt loading in SHHFs holds promise for a new rat HF model that may help researchers to elucidate HF mechanisms and unearth effective treatments.
Outbreak of Mortality in Psittacine Birds in a Mixed-Species Aviary Associated With Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae Infection
Authors: Galindo-Cardiel I. , Opriessnig T. , Molina L. , Juan-Salles C.
Published: August 2011

Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae septicemia, associated with an increased mortality of captive psittacines in a mixed-species aviary, was diagnosed by histopathology, Gram staining, bacterial culture and sequencing, immunohistochemistry, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Over a period of 23 days with no premonitory signs, 2 rainbow lorikeets and an eclectus parrot died. Of these birds, one lorikeet and the eclectus were submitted for necropsy. The main pathologic findings were thrombosis (2/2), bacterial embolism/thromboembolism (2/2), necrotizing hepatitis (2/2), necrohemorrhagic myocarditis (1/2), fibrinohemorrhagic and heterophilic visceral coelomitis (1/2), submandibular necrosuppurative dermatitis with necrotizing vasculitis and bacterial and fungal thromboembolism (1/2), and locally extensive rhabdomyonecrosis with bacterial embolism (1/2). Intralesional bacteria were positive by Gram staining and immunohistochemistry in both cases. E. rhusiopathiae was isolated by routine bacterial culture from the liver of the lorikeet, which was also positive by real-time PCR. This report is one of the rare descriptions of erysipelas in psittacines, and to the authors’ knowledge, it appears to be the first in the described species using immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR on avian paraffin-embedded tissues for the diagnosis.
The Linkage of Life Course, Migration, Health, and Aging
Authors: Montes de Oca Verónica , García Telésforo Ramírez , Sáenz Rogelio , Guillén Jennifer
Published: August 2011

Migration is a phenomenon that impacts individuals throughout the life course. Particularly, Mexican elderly migrants show evidence of lifetime accumulations of the effects of migration on health conditions. Objectives: Examine how the relationship between historical time and individual time explains different factors impacting the health of Mexican adult and elderly migrants in Mexico and the United States. Method: Data from in-depth interviews with Mexican migrants living in selected locations in Mexico and the United States were used to illustrate the links between life course conditions, aging, migration, and health outcomes. Results and Discussion: According to this theoretical perspective and the data, historical time, age at migration, and the conditions under which the migration trajectory developed, show different impacts on the health and quality of life of the elderly, as revealed through analysis of labor experience, disease and accidents, medical service, health treatment, transnational networks, and family formation.