bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The IκB Family Member Bcl-3 Coordinates the Pulmonary Defense against Klebsiella pneumoniae Infection
Authors: Pène Frédéric , Paun Andrea , Sønder Søren Ulrik , Rikhi Nimisha , Wang Hongshan , Claudio Estefania , Siebenlist Ulrich
Published: January 2011

Bcl-3 is an atypical member of the IκB family that has the potential to positively or negatively modulate nuclear NF-κB activity in a context-dependent manner. Bcl-3’s biologic impact is complex and includes roles in tumorigenesis and diverse immune responses, including innate immunity. Bcl-3 may mediate LPS tolerance, suppressing cytokine production, but it also seems to contribute to defense against select systemic bacterial challenges. However, the potential role of Bcl-3 in organ-specific host defense against bacteria has not been addressed. In this study, we investigated the relevance of Bcl-3 in a lung challenge with the Gram-negative pathogen Klebsiella pneumoniae. In contrast to wild-type mice, Bcl-3–deficient mice exhibited significantly increased susceptibility toward K. pneumoniae pneumonia. The mutant mice showed increased lung damage marked by neutrophilic alveolar consolidation, and they failed to clear bacteria in lungs, which correlated with increased bacteremic dissemination. Loss of Bcl-3 incurred a dramatic cytokine imbalance in the lungs, which was characterized by higher levels of IL-10 and a near total absence of IFN-γ. Moreover, Bcl-3–deficient mice displayed increased lung production of the neutrophil-attracting chemokines CXCL-1 and CXCL-2. Alveolar macrophages and neutrophils are important to antibacterial lung defense. In vitro stimulation of Bcl-3–deficient alveolar macrophages with LPS or heat-killed K. pneumoniae recapitulated the increase in IL-10 production, and Bcl-3–deficient neutrophils were impaired in intracellular bacterial killing. These findings suggest that Bcl-3 is critically involved in lung defense against Gram-negative bacteria, modulating functions of several cells to facilitate efficient clearance of bacteria.
Expression of Retinaldehyde Dehydrogenase Enzymes in Mucosal Dendritic Cells and Gut-Draining Lymph Node Stromal Cells Is Controlled by Dietary Vitamin A
Authors: Molenaar Rosalie , Knippenberg Marlene , Goverse Gera , Olivier Brenda J. , de Vos Alex F. , O’Toole Tom , Mebius Reina E.
Published: January 2011

The vitamin A metabolite retinoic acid (RA) plays a crucial role in mucosal immune responses. We demonstrate in this study that RA-producing retinaldehyde dehydrogenase (RALDH) enzymes are postnatally induced in mesenteric lymph node (MLN) dendritic cells (DCs) and MLN stromal cells. RALDH enzyme activity in lamina propria-derived CD103+ MLN-DCs did not depend on TLR signaling. Remarkably, RA itself could directly induce RALDH2 in both DCs and stromal cells in vitro. Furthermore, upon provision of a vitamin A-deficient diet, it was found that RA-mediated signaling was strongly reduced within the small intestines, while RALDH2 mRNA and RALDH enzyme activity in lamina propria DCs and MLN-DCs, as well as RALDH2 mRNA expression in MLN stromal cells, were strongly diminished. Moreover, supply of vitamin A to vitamin A-deficient mice restored RA-mediated signaling in the intestine and RALDH activity in lamina propria-derived CD103+ MLN-DCs. Our results show that RA-dependent signaling within the intestine is indispensable for RALDH activity in the draining MLN.
CD8+ T Cells Induce Thyroid Epithelial Cell Hyperplasia and Fibrosis
Authors: Yu Shiguang , Fang Yujiang , Sharav Tumenjargal , Sharp Gordon C. , Braley-Mullen Helen
Published: January 2011

CD8+ T cells can be important effector cells in autoimmune inflammation, generally because they can damage target cells by cytotoxicity. This study shows that activated CD8+ T cells induce thyroid epithelial cell hyperplasia and proliferation and fibrosis in IFN-γ−/− NOD.H-2h4 SCID mice in the absence of CD4+ T cells. Because CD8+ T cells induce proliferation rather than cytotoxicity of target cells, these results describe a novel function for CD8+ T cells in autoimmune disease. In contrast to the ability of purified CD8+ T cells to induce thyrocyte proliferation, CD4+ T cells or CD8 T cell-depleted splenocytes induced only mild thyroid lesions in SCID recipients. T cells in both spleens and thyroids highly produce TNF-α. TNF-α promotes proliferation of thyrocytes in vitro, and anti–TNF-α inhibits development of thyroid epithelial cell hyperplasia and proliferation in SCID recipients of IFN-γ−/− splenocytes. This suggests that targeting CD8+ T cells and/or TNF-α may be effective for treating epithelial cell hyperplasia and fibrosis.
Distinct Pathways Generate Peptides from Defective Ribosomal Products for CD8+ T Cell Immunosurveillance
Authors: Dolan Brian P. , Li Lily , Veltri Charles A. , Ireland Chris M. , Bennink Jack R. , Yewdell Jonathan W.
Published: January 2011

To understand better the endogenous sources of MHC class I peptide ligands, we generated an antigenic reporter protein whose degradation is rapidly and reversibly controlled with Shield-1, a cell-permeant drug. Using this system, we demonstrate that defective ribosomal products (DRiPs) represent a major and highly efficient source of peptides and are completely resistant to our attempts to stabilize the protein. Although peptides also derive from nascent Shield-1–sensitive proteins and “retirees” created by Shield-1 withdrawal, these are much less efficient sources on a molar basis. We use this system to identify two drugs—each known to inhibit polyubiquitin chain disassembly—that selectively inhibit presentation of Shield-1–resistant DRiPs. These findings provide the initial evidence for distinct biochemical pathways for presentation of DRiPs versus retirees and implicate polyubiquitin chain disassembly or the actions of deubiquitylating enzymes as playing an important role in DRiP presentation.
Pilot Evaluation of a Novel Clinical Test of Reaction Time in National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Football Players
Authors: Eckner James T. , Kutcher Jeffrey S. , Richardson James K.
Published: January 2011

Context:

Evidence suggests that concussion prolongs reaction time (RT). We have developed a simple, reliable clinical tool for measuring reaction time that may be of value in the assessment of concussion in athletes.

Objective:

To compare baseline values of clinical RT (RTclin) obtained using the new clinical reaction time apparatus with computerized RT (RTcomp) obtained using a validated computerized neuropsychological test battery.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Data were collected during a National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I collegiate football team's preparticipation physical examination session.

Patients or Other Participants:

Ninety-four Division I collegiate football players.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The RTclin was measured using a 1.3-m measuring stick embedded in a weighted rubber disk that was released and caught as quickly as possible. The RTcomp was measured using the simple RT component of CogState Sport.

Results:

For the 68 athletes whose CogState Sport tests passed the program's integrity check, RTclin and RTcomp were correlated (r  =  0.445, P < .001). Overall, mean RTclin was shorter and less variable than mean RTcomp (203 ± 20 milliseconds versus 268 ± 44 milliseconds; P < .001). When RTclin and RTcomp were compared between those athletes with (n  =  68) and those without (n  =  26) valid CogState Sport test sessions, mean RTclin was similar (202 ± 19 milliseconds versus 207 ± 23 milliseconds; P  =  .390), but mean RTcomp was different (258 ± 35 milliseconds versus 290 ± 55 milliseconds; P  =  .009).

Conclusions:

The RTclin was positively correlated with RTcomp and yielded more consistent reaction time values during baseline testing. Given that RTclin is easy to measure using simple, inexpensive equipment, further prospective study is warranted to determine its clinical utility in the assessment of concussion in athletes.
Tibiofemoral Joint Positioning for the Valgus Stress Test
Authors: Aronson Patricia A. , Gieck Joe H. , Hertel Jay , Rijke Arie M. , Ingersoll Christopher D.
Published: January 2011

Context:

Recommendations on the positioning of the tibiofemoral joint during a valgus stress test to optimize isolation of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) from other medial joint structures vary in the literature. If a specific amount of flexion could be identified as optimally isolating the MCL, teaching and using the technique would be more consistent in clinical application.

Objective:

To determine the angle of tibiofemoral joint flexion between 0° and 20° that causes a difference in the slope of the force-strain line when measuring the resistance to a valgus force applied to the joint.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

University research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

Twelve healthy volunteers (6 men, 6 women: age  =  26.4 ± 5.6 years, height  =  170.9 ± 8.4 cm, mass  =  75.01 ± 14.6 kg).

Intervention(s):

Using an arthrometer, we applied a valgus force, over a range of 60 N, to the tibiofemoral joint in 0°, 5°, 10°, 15°, and 20° of flexion.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Force-strain measurements were obtained for 5 positions of tibiofemoral joint flexion.

Results:

As knee flexion angle increased, slope values decreased (F4,44  =  17.6, P < .001). The slope at full extension was not different from that at 5° of flexion, but it was different from the slopes at angles greater than 10° of flexion. Similarly, the slope at 5° of flexion was not different from that at 10° of flexion, but it was different from the slopes at 15° and 20° of flexion. Further, the slope at 10° of flexion was not different from that at 15° or 20° of flexion. Finally, the slope at 15° of flexion was not different from that at 20° of flexion.

Conclusions:

When performing the manual valgus stress test, the clinician should fully extend the tibiofemoral joint or flex it to 5° to assess all resisting medial tibiofemoral joint structures and again at 15° to 20° of joint flexion to further assess the MCL.
Social Support Patterns of Collegiate Athletes Before and After Injury
Authors: Yang Jingzhen , Peek-Asa Corinne , Lowe John B. , Heiden Erin , Foster Danny T.
Published: January 2011

Context:

Social support has been identified as an important factor in facilitating recovery from injury. However, no previous authors have prospectively assessed the change in social support patterns before and after injury.

Objective:

To examine the preinjury and postinjury social support patterns among male and female collegiate athletes.

Design:

Prospective observational study.

Setting:

A Big Ten Conference university.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 256 National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I male and female collegiate athletes aged 18 or older from 13 sports teams.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Injury incidence was identified using the Sports Injury Monitoring System. Social support was measured using the 6-item Social Support Questionnaire. Data on preinjury and postinjury social support patterns were compared.

Results:

Male athletes reported more sources of social support than female athletes, whereas female athletes had greater satisfaction with the support they received. Athletes' social support patterns changed after they became injured. Injured athletes reported relying more on coaches (P  =  .003), athletic trainers (P < .0001), and physicians (P  =  .003) for social support after they became injured. Athletes also reported greater postinjury satisfaction with social support received from friends (P  =  .019), coaches (P  =  .001), athletic trainers (P < .0001), and physicians (P  =  .003).

Conclusions:

Our findings identify an urgent need to better define the psychosocial needs of injured athletes and also strongly suggest that athletic trainers have a critical role in meeting these needs.
Assessment of Certified Athletic Trainers' Levels of Cultural Competence in the Delivery of Health Care
Authors: Marra Jeremy , Covassin Tracey , Shingles René R. , Canady Renee Branch , Mackowiak Tom
Published: January 2011

Context:

The concept of culture and its relationship to athletic training beliefs and practices is virtually unexplored. The changing demographics of the United States and the injuries and illnesses of people from diverse backgrounds have challenged health care professionals to provide culturally competent care.

Objective:

To assess the cultural competence levels of certified athletic trainers (ATs) in their delivery of health care services and to examine the relationship between cultural competence and sex, race/ethnicity, years of athletic training experience, and National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) district.

Design:

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting:

Certified member database of the NATA.

Patients or Other Participants:

Of the 13 568 ATs contacted, 3102 (age  =  35.3 ± 9.41 years, experience  =  11.2 ± 9.87 years) responded.

Data Collection and Analysis:

Participants completed the Cultural Competence Assessment (CCA) and its 2 subscales, Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity (CAS) and Cultural Competence Behavior (CCB), which have Cronbach alphas ranging from 0.89 to 0.92. A separate univariate analysis of variance was conducted on each of the independent variables (sex, race/ethnicity, years of experience, district) to determine cultural competence.

Results:

The ATs' self-reported scores were higher than their CCA scores. Results revealed that sex (F1,2929  =  18.63, P  =  .001) and race/ethnicity (F1,2925  =  6.76, P  =  .01) were indicators of cultural competence levels. However, we found no differences for years of experience (F1,2932  =  2.34, P  =  .11) or NATA district (F1,2895  =  1.09, P  =  .36) and cultural competence levels.

Conclusions:

Our findings provide a baseline for level of cultural competence among ATs. Educators and employers can use these results to help develop diversity training education for ATs and athletic training students. The ATs can use their knowledge to provide culturally competent care to athletes and patients and promote a more holistic approach to sports medicine.
National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Football Players' Perceptions of Women in the Athletic Training Room Using a Role Congruity Framework
Authors: O'Connor Caitlin , Grappendorf Heidi , Burton Laura , Harmon Sandra M. , Henderson Angela C. , Peel Judy
Published: January 2011

Context:

Previous researchers have demonstrated that male and female athletes feel more comfortable with treatment by a same-sex athletic trainer for sex-specific injuries and conditions.

Objective:

To address football players' comfort with care provided by same-sex and opposite-sex athletic trainers for sex-specific and non–sex-specific injuries and conditions through the lens of role congruity theory.

Design:

Cross-sectional study for the quantitative data and qualitative study for the qualitative data.

Setting:

Two National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I Football Bowl Series university football programs.

Patients or Other Participants:

Male football players within the 2 university programs.

Data Collection and Analysis:

We replicated existing methods and an existing survey to address male football players' comfort levels. Additionally, an open-ended question was used to determine male football players' perceptions of female athletic trainers. Paired-samples t tests were conducted to identify differences between the responses for the care given by a male athletic trainer and for the care given by a female athletic trainer. Three categories were analyzed: general medical conditions, psychological conditions, and sex-specific injuries. The qualitative data were coded and analyzed using content analysis.

Results:

Male football players were more comfortable with treatment by a male athletic trainer (mean  =  3.61 ± 1.16) for sex-specific injuries and conditions than they were with treatment by a female athletic trainer (mean  =  2.82 ± 1.27; P < .001). No significant results were found for comfort with overall psychological conditions, although a female athletic trainer was preferred over a male athletic trainer for the treatment of depression (mean  =  3.71 ± 1.07 versus mean  =  3.39 ± 1.16, respectively; P < .001). Qualitative data provided support for role congruity theory.

Conclusions:

Both quantitative and qualitative evidence were provided for the support of role congruity theory.
Balance Training for Neuromuscular Control and Performance Enhancement: A Systematic Review
Authors: Zech Astrid , Hübscher Markus , Vogt Lutz , Banzer Winfried , Hänsel Frank , Pfeifer Klaus
Published: January 2011

Objective:

As a result of inconsistencies in reported findings, controversy exists regarding the effectiveness of balance training for improving functional performance and neuromuscular control. Thus, its practical benefit in athletic training remains inconclusive. Our objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of training interventions in enhancing neuromuscular control and functional performance.

Data Sources:

Two independent reviewers performed a literature search in Cochrane Bone, Joint and Muscle Trauma Group Register and Cochrane Controlled Trials Register, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PEDro (Physiotherapy Evidence Database), and SCOPUS.

Study Selection:

Randomized controlled trials and controlled trials without randomization with healthy and physically active participants aged up to 40 years old were considered for inclusion. Outcomes of interest were postural control, muscle strength, agility, jump performance, sprint performance, muscle reflex activity, rate of force development, reaction time, and electromyography.

Data Extraction:

Data of interest were methodologic assessment, training intervention, outcome, timing of the outcome assessment, and results. Standardized mean differences and 95% confidence intervals were calculated when data were sufficient.

Data Synthesis:

In total, 20 randomized clinical trials met the inclusion criteria. Balance training was effective in improving postural sway and functional balance when compared with untrained control participants. Larger effect sizes were shown for training programs of longer duration. Although controversial findings were reported for jumping performance, agility, and neuromuscular control, there are indications for the effectiveness of balance training in these outcomes. When compared with plyometric or strength training, conflicting results or no effects of balance training were reported for strength improvements and changes in sprint performance.

Conclusions:

We conclude that balance training can be effective for postural and neuromuscular control improvements. However, as a result of the low methodologic quality and training differences, further research is strongly recommended.
SUCCESSION PROCESS IN A FAMILY BUSINESS: KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT OVERCOMING RESISTANCE TO ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGES
Authors: Freire Patricia de Sá , Soares Aline Pereira , Nakayama Marina Keiko , Spanhol Fernando José
Published: January 2011

This study examined the perception of a family business’ employees over changes brought about by the company’s succession procsess through the identification of existing problems and the probabilities of overcoming them. The company was classified as a family business organization as per Bernhoeft´s (1991) definition, and the perspectives proposed by Motta (2001) were used as a basis for change analysis. The succession challenges were studied through the knowledge management viewpoint. The methodological approach is characterized as a qualitative descriptive study done through interviews and document analysis. Quantitative data was used, with the application of questionnaires in order to obtain primary data. Data analysis is mainly characterized by its qualitative and descriptive content. After data analysis, the following issues were detected: (1) lack of or inneficient internal communication, (2) the decision making process was either slow or not committed to the desired results and (3) there was either dual leadership or no leadership. It was concluded that in order to achieve the objectives of the changes, it would require a new look into the intraorganizational integration to eliminate features of the family business such as lack of dialogue and unilateral decisions. It is finally suggested the use of strategies for sharing information and knowledge that will pave the way for understanding the entire succession process, overcoming uncertainties and individual resistance. Thus, the inclusion of Knowledge Management in the family business succession process will result in more aware leaders, managers and employees in terms of change of power during the mentioned process.
SALES SOLUBLES Y METALES PESADOS EN SUELOS TRATADOS CON BIOSÓLIDOS
Authors: Robledo-Santoyo Edmundo , Espinosa-Hernández V. , Maldonado-Torres Ranferi , Rubiños-Panta J. Enrique , Hernández-Acosta Elizabeth , Ojeda-Trejo E. , Corlay-Chee L.
Published: January 2011

Las plantas de tratamientos de aguas residuales (PTAR) generan diariamente toneladas de lodos (biosólidos), los cuales pueden tener un uso agrícola como fuente de nutrientes y material mejorador del suelo, aunque también pueden ser fuente de contaminación por metales pesados y sales solubles. En este estudio se evaluó, en un suelo representativo de la zona de influencia de la PTAR de la ciudad de Aguascalientes, México, la aplicación de biosólidos y el efecto de su contenido de metales pesados y sales solubles en el suelo y plantas de pasto ballico, con la finalidad de establecer su aprovechamiento agrícola sin riesgo potencial de degradación y contaminación de suelos y plantas. Se hizo una caracterización química de los biosólidos y los suelos estudiados. Los biosólidos presentaron pH ligeramente ácido, alto contenido en sales solubles y concentración de metales pesados dentro de los límites máximos permisibles según la NOM-004-SEMARNAT-2002, por lo que se les puede dar uso agrícola. Dosis crecientes de biosólidos incorporados al suelo no presentaron efectos en éste, en cuanto a acumulación de metales pesados, pero sí se incrementó el contenido de sales solubles, y con dosis superiores a 80 t·ha-1 se llegó a niveles que pueden reducir el rendimiento de la mayoría de cultivos
Inferring absorbing organic carbon content from AERONET data
Authors: Arola A. , Schuster G. , Myhre G. , Kazadzis S. , Dey S. , Tripathi S. N.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. Black carbon, light-absorbing organic carbon (often called "brown carbon") and mineral dust are the major light-absorbing aerosols. Currently the sources and formation of brown carbon aerosol in particular are not well understood. In this study we estimated the amount of light–absorbing organic carbon and black carbon from AERONET measurements. We find that the columnar absorbing organic carbon (brown carbon) levels in biomass burning regions of South America and Africa are relatively high (about 15–20 mg m−2 during biomass burning season), while the concentrations are significantly lower in urban areas in US and Europe. However, we estimated significant absorbing organic carbon amounts from the data of megacities of newly industrialized countries, particularly in India and China, showing also clear seasonality with peak values up to 30–35 mg m−2 during the coldest season, likely caused by the coal and biofuel burning used for heating. We also compared our retrievals with the modeled organic carbon by the global Oslo CTM for several sites. Model values are higher in biomass burning regions than AERONET-based retrievals, while the opposite is true in urban areas in India and China.
Exploring earth's atmosphere with radio occultation: contributions to weather, climate and space weather
Authors: Anthes R. A.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. The launch of the proof-of-concept mission GPS/MET in 1995 began a revolution in profiling earth's atmosphere through radio occultation (RO). GPS/MET; subsequent single-satellite missions CHAMP, SAC-C, GRACE, METOP-A, and TerraSAR-X; and the six-satellite constellation, FORMOSAT-3/COSMIC, have proven the theoretical capabilities of RO to provide accurate and precise profiles of electron density in the ionosphere and refractivity, containing information on temperature and water vapor, in the stratosphere and troposphere. This paper summarizes results from these RO missions and the applications of RO observations to atmospheric research and operational weather analysis and prediction.
Underlying mechanism of precursory activity from analysis of upward earthquake migration
Authors: Molchanov O. A.
Published: January 2011

Abstract. In this paper we analyse the upward earthquake hypocentral migration in the ten known subduction zones and discuss a possible mechanism of such migration. The total time of the migration appears to range from 2.5 to 10 years. It leads to the estimation of the average velocity Vz~ 60−300 km yr−1. It probably corresponds to the movement of the forcing agent like stress or deformation wave from depths of the upper mantle (600–700 km) to the level of the lithosphere with subsequent initiation of fluid migration inside the crust to trigger shallow earthquakes. Averaged over all zones upward migration travel time is about 5 years (< Vz > ≈120 km yr−1) that coincides approximately with the period of characteristic temperature variation (El Nino) and crustal seismic periodicity in the Pacific region. These findings are helpful for the study of the seismic precursors and analysis of earthquake triggering.
Synthesis of the artemisinin‐imprinting polymers on silica surface and its adsorption behavior in supercritical CO2 fluid
Authors: Yang Baojun , Cao Xuejun
Published: January 2011

Molecular imprinting polymers (MIPs) for artemisinin were prepared by using 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane and calix[4]arene bonded on silica particle surface as the functional monomers, tetraethoxysilicane as cross‐linker, and artemisinin as template. The MIPs were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscope and SEM. Their adsorption capacities were evaluated by static adsorption experiments. The MIPs showed high adsorption capacity and good selectivity for artemisinin. The maximum adsorption capacity of MIPs for artemisinin was 40.0 mg/g. The imprinting factor and the selective factor of the artemisinin‐imprinting polymers was 2.0 and 1.5, respectively. The imprinted film coating onto the silica surface showed a fast kinetics for recognizing and binding templates. Especially, mass transfer reaches the equilibrium within 3.5 h and the adsorption capacity of MIPs for artemisinin reached 120.0 mg/g in supercritical CO2 fluid. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2011
What the halted phase III γ‐secretase inhibitor trial may (or may not) be telling us
Authors: Schor Nina F.
Published: January 2011

The aborted trial of semagacestat has led some to invoke unanticipated effects of γ‐secretase inhibition on formation of amyloid β. However, the many substrates for γ‐secretases and the varied biological effects of each of the resultant cleavage products make ascribing causality much more complex than that. Ann Neurol 2011
Repetitive hypoxia extends endogenous neurovascular protection for stroke
Authors: Stowe Ann M. , Altay Tamer , Freie Angela B. , Gidday Jeffrey M.
Published: January 2011

Objective:

Brief systemic hypoxia protects the rodent brain from subsequent ischemic injury, although the protection wanes within days. We hypothesized that the duration of ischemic tolerance could be extended from days to months by repeated intermittent hypoxia of varying magnitude and duration.

Methods:

Infarction volumes following a 60‐minute transient middle cerebral artery occlusion were determined in adult male mice 2 days through 8 weeks after completion of a 2‐week repetitive hypoxic preconditioning (RHP) protocol. Separate cohorts were studied for the protective effects of RHP on postischemic and cytokine‐induced cerebrovascular inflammation, and for potential deleterious effects of the RHP stimulus itself.

Results:

RHP protection against transient focal stroke persisted for 8 weeks. Leukocyte adherence to cortical venules was attenuated in response to stroke, as well as following tumor necrosis factor‐α administration, indicating that reductions in postischemic inflammation were not secondary to smaller infarct volumes. RHP reduced poststroke leukocyte diapedesis concomitant with a long‐lasting downregulation of endothelial adhesion molecule mRNAs, and also reduced postischemic blood–brain barrier permeability to endogenous immunoglobulin G. RHP was without effect on hippocampal CA1 pyramidal cell viability, only transiently elevated hematocrit, and did not affect the magnitude of cerebral blood flow during and after ischemia.

Interpretation:

Taken together, our findings reveal a novel form of epigenetic neurovascular plasticity characterized by a prominent anti‐inflammatory phenotype that provides protection against stroke many weeks longer than previously established windows of preconditioning‐induced tolerance. Translating these endogenous protective mechanisms into therapeutics could afford sustained periods of cerebroprotection in subpopulations of individuals at identified risk for stroke. ANN NEUROL 2011
Distribution of febrile seizure duration and associations with development
Authors: Hesdorffer Dale C. , Benn Emma K. T. , Bagiella Emilia , Nordli Douglas , Pellock John , Hinton Veronica , Shinnar Shlomo ,   for the FEBSTAT Study Team
Published: January 2011

Objective:

In prior studies of febrile seizures (FSs), prolonged FSs were defined, absent empirical evidence, as lasting 10 or 15 minutes or more. We assessed the distribution of FS duration in a cohort with first FSs, and the association between FS duration and baseline characteristics of the children.

Methods:

We calculated the observed cumulative probability, S(t), that a FS would last at least t minutes, S(t) = exp(−t/τ). Data were also fit using a model obtained as the sum of 2 exponential distributions (S[t] = αexp[−t/τ1] + [1 − α]exp[−t/τ2]). After assessing the best fit, the cutoff defining long FS was determined. Logistic regression was used to examine associations between long FSs and baseline characteristics, behavior, and development.

Results:

In 158 children with a first FS, median duration was 4.0 minutes. Duration of FS was best fit by a 2‐component mixture exponential model. Using this model, we identified 1 population that accounts for 82.3% of FSs and has a mean duration of 3.8 minutes (short FS) and a second population that accounts for 17.7% of FSs and has a mean duration of 39.8 minutes (long FS). Long FSs were significantly associated with developmental delay (p = 0.010) and delays and younger age at first FS (p = 0.048).

Interpretation:

Like the distribution of afebrile seizure duration in children, the distribution of first FS duration is best modeled by assuming 2 populations. Developmental delay and younger age are associated with prolonged FSs. Our data lend further support to defining 10 minutes as the upper limit for a simple FS. ANN NEUROL 2011
Nanotoxikologie – eine interdisziplinäre Herausforderung
Authors: Krug Harald F. , Wick Peter
Published: January 2011

Der aktuelle Anstieg bei den Verbraucherprodukten, die Nanomaterialien enthalten, als auch die Prognose zu den neuen Entwicklungen zu Anwendungen mit Nanopartikeln oder anderen Nanostrukturen bringt bei verschiedenen Organisationen, aber auch bei der Bevölkerung die Befürchtung auf, dass hier auch neue gesundheitliche Risiken entstehen können. Mit den Erfahrungen aus früheren Technologieentwicklungen sind solche Befürchtungen nicht ganz unbegründet, aber sind diese auch berechtigt? Ist es außerdem begründet, von der “Nanotoxikologie” als einer neuen Disziplin zu sprechen? Dieser Aufsatz soll die Besonderheiten beleuchten, die bei der Interaktion von Nanoobjekten mit Zellen, Geweben und Organismen auftreten können. Insbesondere wollen wir darauf aufmerksam machen, dass zwar viele Daten zu den biologischen Wirkungen von Nanomaterialien vorhanden sind, aber eine Reihe dieser Studien nicht verlässlich sind. Dies soll dabei hauptsächlich an Beispielen aus aktuellen Publikationen versucht werden, als dass wir direkt auf konkrete Materialien eingehen. Mit dem Verweis auf methodische Unzulänglichkeiten sowie Empfehlungen am Schluss des Aufsatzes, wie diese vermieden werden können, wollen wir außerdem zu einer nachhaltigen Verbesserung der Datenlage beitragen.
Functional mesenchymal stem cell niches in adult mouse knee joint synovium in vivo
Authors: Kurth Tobias B. , Dell'Accio Francesco , Crouch Vicki , Augello Andrea , Sharpe Paul T. , De Bari Cosimo
Published: January 2011

Objective

We previously reported that human synovium contains cells that, after culture expansion, display properties of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). The objective of this study was to identify MSCs in native synovium in vivo.

Methods

To identify stem cells in the synovium in vivo, a double nucleoside analog cell‐labeling scheme was used in a mouse model of joint‐surface injury. For labeling of slow‐cycling cells, mice received iododeoxyuridine (IdU) for 30 days, followed by a 40‐day washout period. For labeling of cells that proliferate after injury, mice underwent knee surgery to produce an articular cartilage defect and received chlorodeoxyuridine (CIdU) for 4 days, starting at multiple time points after surgery. Unoperated and sham‐operated joints served as controls. Knee joint paraffin sections were analyzed by double and triple immunostaining to detect nucleoside analogs, conventional MSC markers, and chondrocyte‐lineage markers.

Results

Long‐term–retaining, slow‐cycling IdU‐positive cells were detected in the synovium. At 4 days and 8 days after injury, there was marked proliferation of IdU‐positive cells, which costained for CIdU. IdU‐positive cells were nonhematopoietic, nonendothelial stromal cells, were distinct from pericytes, and stained positive for MSC markers. MSCs were phenotypically heterogeneous and located in topographically distinct niches in the lining layer and the subsynovial tissue. Twelve days after injury, double nucleoside–labeled cells within synovium were embedded in cartilage‐specific metachromatic extracellular matrix and costained positive for the chondrocyte‐lineage markers Sox9 and type II collagen.

Conclusion

Our findings provide the first evidence of the existence of resident MSCs in the knee joint synovium that undergo proliferation and chondrogenic differentiation following injury in vivo.
Imposing no‐arbitrage conditions in implied volatilities using constrained smoothing splines
Authors: Laurini Márcio Poletti
Published: January 2011

We apply constrained smoothing B‐splines to the construction of arbitrage‐free implied volatilities and derived measures. The constrained smoothing B‐splines allows the imposition of the constraints of monotonicity and convexity given by the no‐arbitrage conditions in the pricing function. We illustrate the methodology in the construction of implied volatilities and also in the construction of derived measures such as risk‐neutral densities, showing that it can be used as an effective tool for general treatment of option prices. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Spreading Chromatin into Chemical Biology
Authors: Allis C. David , Muir Tom W.
Published: January 2011

Epigenetics, broadly defined as the inheritance of non‐Mendelian phenotypic traits, can be more narrowly defined as heritable alterations in states of gene expression (“on” versus “off”) that are not linked to changes in DNA sequence. Moreover, these alterations can persist in the absence of the signals that initiate them, thus suggesting some kind of “memory” to epigenetic forms of regulation. How, for example, during early female mammalian development, is one X chromosome selected to be kept in an active state, while the genetically identical sister X chromosome is “marked” to be inactive, even though they reside in the same nucleus, exposed to the same collection of shared trans‐factors? Once X inactivation occurs, how are these contrasting chromatin states maintained and inherited faithfully through subsequent cell divisions? Chromatin states, whether active (euchromatic) or silent (heterochromatic) are established, maintained, and propagated with remarkable precision during normal development and differentiation. However, mistakes made in establishing and maintaining these chromatin states, often executed by a variety of chromatin‐remodeling activities, can lead to mis‐expression or mis‐silencing of critical downstream gene targets with far‐reaching implications for human biology and disease, notably cancer. Though chromatin biologists have identified many of the “inputs” that are important for controlling chromatin states, the detailed mechanisms by which these processes work remain largely opaque, in part due to the staggering complexity of the chromatin polymer, the physiologically relevant form of our genome. The primary objective of this article is to serve as a “call to arms” for chemists to contribute to the development of the precision tools needed to answer pressing molecular problems in this rapidly moving field.
High‐Performance Oxygen Sensors Based on EuIII Complex/Polystyrene Composite Nanofibrous Membranes Prepared by Electrospinning
Authors: Wang Yinghui , Li Bin , Zhang Liming , Zuo Qinghui , Li Peng , Zhang Jun , Su Zhongmin
Published: January 2011

An optical oxygen sensor based on an EuIII complex/polystyrene (PS) composite nanofibrous membrane is prepared by electrospinning. The emission intensity of [Eu(TTA)3(phencarz)] (TTA=2‐thenoyltrifluoroacetonate, phencarz=2‐(N‐ethylcarbazolyl‐4)imidazo[4,5‐f]1,10‐phenanthroline) decreases with increasing oxygen concentration, and thus the [Eu(TTA)3 (phencarz)]/PS composite nanofibrous membranes can be used as an optical oxygen‐sensing material based on emission quenching caused by oxygen. Elemental analysis, UV/Vis absorption spectra, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), fluorescence microscopy, luminescence‐intensity quenching Stern–Volmer plots, and excited‐state decay analysis are used to characterize the obtained oxygen‐sensing materials. A high sensitivity (IN2/IO2) of 3.38 and short response and recovery times (t↓=5.0, t↑=8.0 s) are obtained. These results are the best values reported for oxygen sensors based on EuIII complexes. The high surface area‐to‐volume ratio and porous structure of the electrospun nanofibrous membranes are taken to be responsible for the outstanding performance.
Foundations of mediation training: A literature review of adult education and training design
Authors: Hedeen Timothy , Raines Susan S. , Barton Ansley B.
Published: January 2011

High‐quality mediation training is essential to producing skilled mediators, but what makes for good training? To answer this question, the authors examine the literature on adult education, mediation training, training design and methods, and quality assurance in mediation training. What follows is a summary and analysis of the literature on issues related to mediation training. This core body of knowledge helps to prepare mediation trainers and program administrators as they seek to ensure that the training they provide or sponsor is of the highest quality possible.
Prospect theory and the framing of the Good Friday Agreement
Authors: Hancock Landon E. , Weiss Joshua N. , Duerr Glen M. E.
Published: January 2011

We examine how supporters of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement tried to persuade their constituents to vote for ratifying the agreement. We argue that a “sales” message based on tenets of prospect theory—framing the preferred choice as less risky than the alternative—garnered more support for the initial vote and, more important, insulated the process to some extent from failures in implementation. For this article, we determine how political leaders supporting the agreement framed it, finding that they attempted to do so both positively toward a better future and as a better alternative to continued or renewed conflict.
The role of interactional competence in mediation
Authors: Cora Garcia Angela
Published: January 2011

In this article, I analyze the interactional techniques disputants use to construct effective opening statements in mediation sessions. Using a single case analysis, I show how the use of specific interactional techniques by the first disputant created a frame for the second disputant's opening statement, which constricted the paths available to him to present his side of the dispute favorably. I conclude with a discussion of the relevance of disputants' interactional competence for a mediator's efforts to effectively balance power between disputants.
Oxidative Desulfurization of Fuels Catalyzed by Fenton‐Like Ionic Liquids at Room Temperature
Authors: Jiang Yunqing , Zhu Wenshuai , Li Huaming , Yin Sheng , Liu Hua , Xie Qingjie
Published: January 2011

Oxidation of the sulfur‐containing compounds benzothiophene (BT), dibenzothiophene (DBT), and 4,6‐dimethyldibenzothiophene (4,6‐DMDBT) has been studied in a desulfurization system composed of model oil, hydrogen peroxide, and different types of ionic liquids [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl/FeCl3, [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl/CuCl2, [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl/ZnCl2, [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl/SnCl2, [(C4H9)3CH3N]Cl/FeCl3, [C10H21(CH3)3N]Cl/FeCl3, [(C10H21)2(CH3)2N]Cl/FeCl3. Deep desulfurization is achieved in the Fenton‐like ionic liquid [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl/FeCl3 at 25 °C for 1 h. The desulfurization of DBT reaches 97.9 %, in consuming very low amount of [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl/FeCl3 (only 0.702 mmol). The reaction conditions, for example, the amount of [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl/FeCl3 or H2O2, the temperature, and the molar ratio of FeCl3 to [(C8H17)3CH3N]Cl, are investigated for this system. The oxidation reactivity of the different sulfur‐containing compounds is found to decrease in the order of DBT>BT>4,6‐DMDBT. The desulfurization system can be recycled six times without significant decrease in activity. The sulfur level of FCC gasoline could be reduced from 360 ppm to 110 ppm.
Translocon‐associated protein subunit Trap‐γ/Ssr3 is required for vascular network formation in the mouse placenta
Authors: Yamaguchi Yasuka L. , Tanaka Satomi S. , Oshima Naoko , Kiyonari Hiroshi , Asashima Makoto , Nishinakamura Ryuichi
Published: January 2011

The translocon‐associated protein (TRAP, also termed the signal sequence receptor) complex is required for the efficient translocation of secretory and membrane proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum, and is also involved in the endoplasmic reticulum stress‐mediated unfolded protein response pathway. To investigate the roles of Trap‐γ, a TRAP complex subunit, we generated Trap‐γ knockout mice and found that mutant pups died soon after birth because of retarded embryonic organ growth, especially in the lung. The mutant placentae showed severe vascular network malformation in the labyrinth and significant reductions in blood space areas, which had an adverse effect on intrauterine embryonic growth. Placental malformation was already found by the mid‐gestation‐stage mutant placenta, with poor vascular endothelial cell proliferation in the chorionic plate region and increased apoptotic cell death in the labyrinth. Thus, Trap‐γ appears to be required for vascular network formation in murine placental development. Developmental Dynamics 240:394–403, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An obesogenic diet started before puberty leads to abnormal mammary gland development during pregnancy in the rabbit
Authors: Hue‐Beauvais Cathy , Chavatte‐Palmer Pascale , Aujean Etienne , Dahirel Michèle , Laigre Patrice , Péchoux Christine , Bouet Stephan , Devinoy Eve , Charlier Madia
Published: January 2011

Alterations to the metabolic environment during puberty can impact future lactation efficiency and mammary tumorigenesis. During this study, we used a model of rabbits receiving an obesogenic diet (OD), starting before puberty and extending until mid‐pregnancy. Three months later, the body weight of OD animals was significantly higher than that of controls and their mammary glands displayed a precocious and abnormal development at mid‐pregnancy. OD mammary ducts were filled with dense products, while alveolar structures invaded most of the fat pad. The proportion of secretory epithelium was significantly higher in OD mammary tissue, which contained an abundant accumulation of milk proteins and lipids. In conclusion, an obesogenic diet started before puberty induced an accelerated development of the rabbit mammary gland, leading to an accumulation of secretory products at mid‐pregnancy. These results support the critical influence of nutrition on mammary growth and differentiation, which may be deleterious to mammary development and subsequent lactation. Developmental Dynamics 240:347–356, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Characterization of the laminin gene family and evolution in zebrafish
Authors: Sztal Tamar , Berger Silke , Currie Peter D. , Hall Thomas E.
Published: January 2011

Laminins are essential components of all basement membranes and are fundamental to tissue development and homeostasis. Humans possess at least 16 different heterotrimeric laminin complexes formed through different combinations of alpha, beta, and gamma chains. Individual chains appear to exhibit unique expression patterns, leading to the notion that overlap between expression domains governs the constitution of complexes found within particular tissues. However, the spatial and temporal expression of laminin genes has not been comprehensively analyzed in any vertebrate model to date. Here, we describe the tissue‐specific expression patterns of all laminin genes in the zebrafish, throughout embryonic development and into the “post‐juvenile” period, which is representative of the adult body form. In addition, we present phylogenetic and microsynteny analyses, which demonstrate that the majority of our zebrafish sequences are orthologous to human laminin genes. Together, these data represent a fundamental resource for the study of vertebrate laminins. Developmental Dynamics 240:422–431, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Autotaxin is required for the cranial neural tube closure and establishment of the midbrain–hindbrain boundary during mouse development
Authors: Koike Seiichi , Yutoh Yoshifumi , Keino‐Masu Kazuko , Noji Sumihare , Masu Masayuki , Ohuchi Hideyo
Published: January 2011

Autotaxin (ATX) is a lysophospholipid‐generating exoenzyme expressed in embryonic and adult neural tissues. We previously showed that ATX is expressed in the neural organizing centers, anterior head process, and midbrain‐hindbrain boundary (MHB). To elucidate the role of ATX during neural development, here we examined the neural phenotypes of ATX‐deficient mice. Expression analysis of neural marker genes revealed that lateral expansion of the rostral forebrain is reduced and establishment of the MHB is compromised as early as the late headfold stage in ATX mutant embryos. Moreover, ATX mutant embryos fail to complete cranial neural tube closure. These results indicate that ATX is essential for cranial neurulation and MHB establishment. Developmental Dynamics 240:413–421, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.