bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ROXY1 C-Terminal L**LL Motif Is Essential for the Interaction with TGA Transcription Factors
Authors: Li Shutian , Gutsche Nora , Zachgo Sabine
Published: September 2011

Glutaredoxins (GRXs) are small, ubiquitous, glutathione-dependent oxidoreductases that participate in redox-regulated processes associated with stress responses. Recently, GRXs have been shown to exert crucial functions during flower developmental processes. GRXs modulate their target protein activities by the reduction of protein disulfide bonds or deglutathionylation reactions. The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) GRX ROXY1 participates in petal primordia initiation and further petal morphogenesis. ROXY1 belongs to a land plant-specific class of GRXs with a CC-type active site motif, deviating from the ubiquitously occurring CPYC and CGFS GRX classes. ROXY1 was previously shown to interact with floral TGA transcription factors in the nucleus, and this interaction is a prerequisite for ROXY1 to exert its activity required for Arabidopsis petal development. Deletion analysis further identified the importance of the ROXY1 C terminus for the ROXY1/TGA protein interactions and for the ROXY1 function in petal development. Here, by dissecting the ROXY1 C terminus, an α-helical L**LL motif immediately adjacent to the ROXY1 C-terminal eight amino acids was identified that is essential for the interaction with TGA transcription factors and crucial for the ROXY1 function in planta. Similar to the α-helical L**LL motifs binding to transcriptional coactivators with liganded nuclear receptors in animals, a hydrophobic face formed by the conserved leucines in the L**LL motif of ROXY1 possibly mediates the interaction with TGA transcription factors. Thus, the α-helical L**LL sequence is a conserved protein-protein interaction motif in both animals and plants. Furthermore, two separate TGA domains were identified by deletion experiments as being essential for mediating TGA protein interactions with ROXYs.
Electrophysiological responses of the chemoreceptor neurones in the antennal taste sensilla to plant alkaloids and glucosides in a granivorous ground beetle
Authors: MILIUS MARIT , MERIVEE ENNO , MUST ANNE , TOOMING ENE , WILLIAMS INGRID , LUIK ANNE
Published: September 2011

The electrophysiological response of chemoreceptor neurones from the antennal chaetoid taste sensilla of the omnivorous ground beetle Pterostichus oblongopunctatus to several plant alkaloids and glucosides is investigated. A quinine‐sensitive neurone responding to quinine and quinine hydrochloride is found, most probably related to the granivorous feeding habit of P. oblongopunctatus. The response to quinine hydrochloride is concentration‐dependent at 0.001–50 mm, with the response threshold at 0.01 mm and a maximum rate of firing of 67 spikes/s at 50 mm. The stimulatory effect of caffeine is very weak, where the firing rate increases by only 1.4 spikes/s at a concentration of 10 mm compared with that evoked by a control stimulus. In addition, both quinine and quinine hydrochloride strongly inhibit spike production by the salt‐ and pH‐sensitive neurones when presented in mixtures with 10 mm NaCl. Several tested plant secondary compounds (i.e. salicin, sinigrin, caffeine and nicotine), which have only little or no effect on the firing rate of the quinine‐sensitive neurone, greatly reduce the responses of the salt‐ and pH‐sensitive neurones. The results of the present study suggest that the antennal taste sensilla of P. oblongopunctatus may detect plant defensive compounds both through the activation of a quinine‐sensitive neurone and via peripheral inhibition of other chemoreceptor neurones of the taste sensillum.
Vascular reconstruction in monolateral dual kidney transplantation with multiple arteries
Authors: Veroux Massimiliano , Giuffrida Giuseppe , Ekser Burcin , Sinagra Nunzia , Giaquinta Alessia , Leonardi Alessandra , Veroux Pierfrancesco
Published: September 2011

Veroux M, Giuffrida G, Ekser B, Sinagra N, Giaquinta A, Leonardi A, Veroux P. Vascular reconstruction in monolateral dual kidney transplantation with multiple arteries.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01537.x. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  We report the results of monolateral dual kidney transplantation with grafts with multiple arteries. Among the 42 monolateral DKT performed in a seven‐yr period, 12 (28.5%) patients received renal grafts with multiple arteries. In six patients, the accessory arteries were anastomosed end‐to‐side or side‐to‐side on the aortic patch. In six patients, with three or more accessory arteries, a vascular reconstruction with an inferior vena cava patch was performed, before implanting the kidney. There were no intraoperative complications in the entire series, and there were no immediate vascular complications. Vascular reconstruction of kidneys with multiple arteries may be performed safely even in monolateral dual kidney transplantation. Inferior vena cava may be an attractive alternative in vascular reconstruction for kidneys with multiple arteries.
The effect of a screening programme on the outcome of colorectal cancer
Authors: Suttie S. A. , Shaikh I. A. , Amin A. I. , Daniel T. , Yalamarthi S.
Published: September 2011

Aim  The study aimed to determine whether the introduction of a screening programme for colorectal cancer influenced resection and recurrence rates and prognosis.

Method  Details of patients with a biopsy‐confirmed diagnosis of colorectal cancer attending from January 2002 to December 2006 were entered into a prospective database. All were followed to death or the end of the study period (December 2008). Patients with a synchronous cancer were excluded from analysis. A comparison was made between screen and non‐screen detected cancers for survival, disease‐free survival, location of the primary tumour, resection and recurrence rates.

Results  In all, 841 [median age 72 (30–101) years; 53% men] patients with colorectal cancer were identified. Of these 68 were screen detected of whom 63 underwent surgery. Screen detected cancers were significantly less advanced at presentation (P = 0.001). There was no significant difference in primary tumour location between screen and non‐screen detected cancers (P = 0.184). Among curative resections, significantly fewer screened compared with non‐screened cancers developed a recurrence [6/59 (10.2%) vs 105/491 (21.4%), P = 0.043]. The mean disease‐free survival for screen and non‐screen detected cancers was 78.3 and 65.0 months (P = 0.010). Overall mean survival was significantly improved for screened (73.8 months) over non‐screened (57.9 months) detected cancers, P = 0.001.

Conclusion  Screening for colorectal cancer in this population significantly improved overall cancer‐related and disease‐free survival, possibly as a result of the detection of significantly more early staged cancers.
Hedge Fund Activism and Information Disclosure: the Case of Germany
Authors: Weber Peter , Zimmermann Heinz
Published: September 2011

Based on the German regulatory framework, we provide a more detailed picture of the information disclosure process surrounding the announcement of major shareholdings of hedge funds in listed companies. We separate price and volume effects between three event dates: the transaction date when the investor reaches a notification threshold, the announcement date when potential insiders (the target firm and the regulator) receive advance information, and the publication date when the information is officially released to the public. This separation makes it possible to analyse information and price pressure effects in some detail. The paper also documents the extent and nature of delays in hedge funds’ notification behaviour.
‘Expatriates’: Gender, Race and Class Distinctions in International Management
Authors: Berry Daphne P. , Bell Myrtle P.
Published: September 2011

In the international management (IM) literature, ‘expatriate’ is used as a verb in reference to the transnational movement of employees by multinational corporations (MNCs) and as a noun in reference to the people who are so moved across borders to work. IM's resulting expatriate analyses apply only to a specific minority of relatively privileged people. However, as is clear in other bodies of literature, many others (‘migrants’) in less privileged class positions move themselves across national boundaries for work. In this majority are often women and men — people of diverse races, ethnicities, economic and social means — who have less education and who work in lower level jobs, also often in or for MNCs. Their invisibility in the IM literature sustains and reinforces gender, race and class‐based disparities in globalization processes and work to the detriment of poor women of colour around the world. We call for gendering change that would make visible the invisible in IM scholarship related to expatriation.
Vasoconstrictor and vasodilator responses to tryptamine of rat‐isolated perfused mesentery: comparison with tyramine and β‐phenylethylamine
Authors: Anwar MA , Ford WR , Broadley KJ , Herbert AA
Published: September 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Tryptamine increases blood pressure by vasoconstriction, but little is known about its actions on the mesentery, in particular the resistance arteries. Tryptamine interacts with trace amine‐associated receptors (TAARs) and because of its structural similarity to 5‐HT, it may also interact with 5‐HT receptors. Our hypothesis is therefore that the rat mesenteric arterial bed will exhibit vasopressor and vasodepressor responses to tryptamine via both 5‐HT and TAARs.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Tryptamine‐evoked responses were assayed from pressure changes of the rat‐isolated mesenteric vasculature perfused at constant flow rate in the absence and presence of adrenoceptor and 5‐HT receptor antagonists.

KEY RESULTS Tryptamine caused dose‐dependent vasoconstriction of the mesenteric arterial bed as increases in perfusion pressure. These were unaffected by the α1‐adrenoceptor antagonist, prazosin, but were attenuated by the non‐selective α‐adrenoceptor antagonist, phentolamine. The 5‐HT2A receptor antagonists, ketanserin and ritanserin, abolished the tryptamine‐induced pressure increases to reveal vasodilator responses in mesenteric beds preconstricted with phenylephrine. These tryptamine‐induced vasodilator responses were unaffected by the 5‐HT7 receptor antagonist, SB269970, but were eliminated by the NOS inhibitor, Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME). Tyramine and β‐phenylethylamine also caused vasodilatation in pre‐constricted vasculature, which was also abolished by L‐NAME.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Tryptamine causes vasoconstriction of the mesenteric vasculature via 5‐HT2A receptors, which when inhibited exposed vasorelaxant effects in pre‐constricted tissues. The vasodilatation was independent of 5‐HT2A and 5‐HT7 receptors but like that for tyramine and β‐phenylethylamine was due to NO release. Potency orders suggest TAAR involvement in the vasodilatation by these trace amines.
Evaluation of a Statewide Public Health Nursing Training in Utah
Authors: Prelip Michael , Flores Rachel , Kinsler Janni , Stevenson Audrey M. , Simonsen Sara E. , Sharif Mienah
Published: September 2011

Public health nurses continue to struggle to provide culturally relevant services that focus on the multiple needs of an ethnically diverse population while at the same time providing services to the population at large. This article describes the formative research, implementation, and results of a statewide effort to broaden UtahÆs public health nurses perception about their role and responsibility in addressing and serving the emerging needs of underserved and atrisk populations in Utah. A total of 51% of Utah state and local health department public health nurses participated in the training. There was a statistically significant increase in the mean level of perceived understanding of topic material from pretest to posttest, and 80% of participants reported applying what they learned in the training to their practice. Our experience demonstrates that even with limited resources, it is possible to deliver high quality training to a large proportion of public health nurses practicing in urban, rural, and frontier populations; observe significant results in their comprehension of training material and, most importantly; see application of what they learned in the training to their health care practice.
Hypersensitivity reactions to metallic implants – diagnostic algorithm and suggested patch test series for clinical use
Authors: Schalock Peter C. , Menné Torkil , Johansen Jeanne D. , Taylor James S. , Maibach Howard I. , Lidén Carola , Bruze Magnus , Thyssen Jacob P.
Published: September 2011

Cutaneous and systemic hypersensitivity reactions to implanted metals are challenging to evaluate and treat. Although they are uncommon, they do exist, and require appropriate and complete evaluation. This review summarizes the evidence regarding evaluation tools, especially patch and lymphocyte transformation tests, for hypersensitivity reactions to implanted metal devices. Patch test evaluation is the gold standard for metal hypersensitivity, although the results may be subjective. Regarding pre‐implant testing, those patients with a reported history of metal dermatitis should be evaluated by patch testing. Those without a history of dermatitis should not be tested unless considerable concern exists. Regarding post‐implant testing, a subset of patients with metal hypersensitivity may develop cutaneous or systemic reactions to implanted metals following implant. For symptomatic patients, a diagnostic algorithm to guide the selection of screening allergen series for patch testing is provided. At a minimum, an extended baseline screening series and metal screening is necessary. Static and dynamic orthopaedic implants, intravascular stent devices, implanted defibrillators and dental and gynaecological devices are considered. Basic management suggestions are provided. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive reference for use by those evaluating suspected cutaneous and systemic metal hypersensitivity reactions.
Areca nut extracts suppress the differentiation and functionality of human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells
Authors: Wang C.‐C. , Chen T.‐Y. , Wu H.‐Y. , Liu T.‐Y. , Jan T.‐R.
Published: September 2011

Wang C‐C, Chen T‐Y, Wu H‐Y, Liu T‐Y, Jan T‐R. Areca nut extracts suppress the differentiation and functionality of human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells. J Periodont Res 2012; 47: 198–203. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Background and Objective:  Areca quid chewing, a major risk factor contributing to the occurrence of oral cancer and precancer, has been reported to be associated with the severity and high prevalence of periodontal diseases in areca quid chewers. As dendritic cells are critically involved in the regulation of innate and adaptive immunity in oral mucosa, the objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of areca nut extracts (ANE) on the differentiation and reactivity of dendritic cells derived from monocytes.

Material and Methods:  Human peripheral blood monocytes were cultured in the presence of granulocyte–monocyte colony‐stimulating factor and interleukin‐4 for 7 d to generate dendritic cells. To examine the effect of ANE on the generation of dendritic cells, the monocytes were exposed to ANE throughout the 7 d culture period. In addition, the effect of ANE on the maturation of monocyte‐derived dendritic cells induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was examined.

Results:  Monocytes cultured in granulocyte–monocyte colony‐stimulating factor and interleukin‐4 exhibited a typical phenotype of dendritic cells, as evidenced by the heightened expression of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR, CD11c and the co‐stimulatory molecules CD40, CD80 and CD86. Exposure of the monocytes to ANE did not influence the expression of HLA‐DR and CD11c, but markedly attenuated the proportion of CD40‐positive cells and the mean fluorescence intensity of CD86. The expression of co‐stimulatory molecules in LPS‐activated dendritic cells was not affected, whereas the mRNA expression of interleukin‐12 induced by LPS was markedly suppressed by ANE treatment in a concentration‐dependent manner.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that ANE exposure interfered with the differentiation of dendritic cells from monocytes. Moreover, the functionality of mature monocyte‐derived dendritic cells was attenuated in the presence of ANE.
3‐(3‐amino‐3‐carboxypropyl)‐5,6‐Dihydrouridine is one of two novel post‐transcriptional modifications in tRNALys(UUU) from Trypanosoma brucei
Authors: Krog Jesper S. , Español Yaiza , Giessing Anders M. B. , Dziergowska Agnieszka , Malkiewicz Andrzej , de Pouplana Lluís Ribas , Kirpekar Finn
Published: September 2011

tRNA is the most heavily modified of all RNA types, with typically 10–20% of the residues being post‐transcriptionally altered. Unravelling the modification pattern of a tRNA is a challenging task; there are 92 currently known tRNA modifications [1], many of which are chemically similar. Furthermore, the tRNA has to be investigated with single‐nucleotide resolution in order to ensure complete mapping of all modifications. In the present work, we characterized tRNALys(UUU) from Trypanosoma brucei, and provide a complete overview of its post‐transcriptional modifications. The first step was MALDI‐TOF MS of two independent digests of the tRNA, with RNase A and RNase T1, respectively. This revealed digestion products harbouring mass‐changing modifications. Next, the modifications were mapped at the nucleotide level in the RNase products by tandem MS. Comparison with the sequence of the unmodified tRNA revealed the modified residues. The modifications were further characterized at the nucleoside level by chromatographic retention time and fragmentation pattern upon higher‐order tandem MS. Phylogenetic comparison with modifications in tRNALys from other organisms was used through the entire analysis. We identified modifications on 12 nucleosides in tRNALys(UUU), where U47 exhibited a novel modification, 3‐(3‐amino‐3‐carboxypropyl)‐5,6‐dihydrouridine, based on identical chromatographic retention and MS fragmentation as the synthetic nucleoside. A37 was observed in two versions: a minor fraction with the previously described 2‐methylthio‐N6‐threonylcarbamoyl‐modification, and a major fraction with A37 being modified by a 294.0‐Da moiety. The latter product is the largest adenosine modification reported so far, and we discuss its nature and origin.
Comparing methods of determining insertion length for placing gastric tubes in children 1 month to 17 years of age
Authors: Ellett Marsha L. Cirgin , Cohen Mervyn D. , Perkins Susan M. , Croffie Joseph M. B. , Lane Kathleen A. , Austin Joan K.
Published: September 2011

Purpose.  The purpose was to compare three methods of predicting the gastric tube insertion length in children 1 month to 17 years of age: age‐related, height‐based (ARHB); nose‐ear‐xiphoid (NEX); and nose‐ear‐mid‐umbilicus (NEMU).

Design and Methods.  The design was a randomized controlled trial. Children were randomly assigned to the ARHB, NEX, or NEMU groups. Tubes placed high were considered to be misplaced.

Results.  There were significant differences in percentages of correctly placed tubes, with ARHB and NEMU being more accurate than NEX.

Practice Implications.  NEX should no longer be used as a gastric tube insertion‐length predictor. Either ARHB or NEMU should be used.
Thermoviscoplastic Modeling and Testing of Shape Memory Polymer Based Self-Healing Syntactic Foam Programmed at Glassy Temperature
Authors: Xu Wei , Li Guoqiang
Published: September 2011

Traditionally, programming of shape memory polymer (SMP) material requires initial heating above the glass transition temperature (Tg), subsequent cooling below Tg and removal of the applied load. Therefore, the shape fixity process is inconvenient for some applications. Most recently, a new and effective approach, which programs glass transition activated SMPs directly at temperatures well below Tg,was introduced by Li and Xu [2011, “Thermomechanical Behavior of Shape Memory Polymer Programmed at Glassy Temperature: Testing and Constitutive Modeling,” J. Mech. Phys. Solids, 59(6), pp. 1231–1250. The 1D compression programming below Tg and free shape recovery were extensively investigated both experimentally and analytically. The current work extends this study into a shape memory polymer based self-healing syntactic foam, which was found to be capable of self-sealing structural scale damage repeatedly, efficiently, and almost autonomously [Li and John, 2008, “A Self-Healing Smart Syntactic Foam Under Multiple Impacts,” Compos. Sci. Technol., 68(15–16), pp. 3337–3343.]. A structural-relaxation constitutive model featuring damage-allowable thermoviscoplasticity was then developed to predict the nonlinear shape memory behavior of the SMP based syntactic foam programmed at glassy temperatures. After validated by both 1D (compression) and 2D (compression in longitudinal direction and tension in transverse direction) tests, the constitutive model was used to evaluate the effects of several design parameters on the thermomechanical behavior of the SMP based syntactic foam. It is concluded that the model is a useful tool for designing and training this novel self-healing composite.
Is the recall of men who have sex with men (MSM) diagnosed as having bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs) for re-screening a feasible and effective strategy?
Authors: Harte Derval , Mercey Danielle , Jarman Jay , Benn Paul
Published: September 2011

Objectives

To assess the feasibility and outcomes of recalling men who have sex with men (MSM) diagnosed as having a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) for re-screening.

Methods

This evaluation was conducted from December 2008 for a 9-month period. MSM diagnosed as having a bacterial STI in that period were offered recall for re-screening 3 months after their diagnosis. Re-screening rates and infection incidence were calculated. Differences in baseline characteristics by re-screening status and factors predictive of infection at re-screening were assessed using the Mann–Whitney test, χ2test and logistic regression.

Results

Of the 337 MSM diagnosed as having a bacterial STI, 301 were offered recall. Of these, 206 (68.4%) re-screened after 3 months, 30 (10%) declined and the remainder did not re-attend despite giving verbal consent. Compared with those not re-screening, those re-screening were less likely to be HIV positive (p=0.001), but there was no difference in baseline risk behaviours. There were 15 diagnoses of bacterial STIs at re-screening (29 per 100 person-year follow-up (pyfu); 95% CI 14.3 to 43.7) and five new HIV diagnoses of whom three had a negative test at baseline, one tested negative 6 months earlier and one never tested. Among those testing at both time points, the HIV incidence was 8.3 per 100 pyfu (95% CI 0.0 to 17.7).

Conclusions

This evaluation demonstrates a ‘recall for re-screening’ strategy is feasible in terms of high re-screening rates and incidence of new infections diagnosed. Experimental evidence is needed to assess cost-effectiveness and whether it achieves its aim of reducing transmission of STIs and HIV.
DE-PSO: A NEW HYBRID META-HEURISTIC FOR SOLVING GLOBAL OPTIMIZATION PROBLEMS
Authors: PANT MILLIE , THANGARAJ RADHA , ABRAHAM AJITH
Published: September 2011

This paper presents a simple, hybrid two phase global optimization algorithm called DE-PSO for solving global optimization problems. DE-PSO consists of alternating phases of Differential Evolution (DE) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). The algorithm is designed so as to preserve the strengths of both the algorithms. Empirical results show that the proposed DE-PSO is quite competent for solving the considered test functions as well as real life problems.
ON SOME SCHEMES OF REASONING IN FUZZY LOGIC
Authors: TRILLAS ENRIC , ALSINA CLAUDI , RENEDO ELOY
Published: September 2011

This paper deals with the validity in fuzzy logic of some classical schemes of reasoning, namely, with those of disjunctive reasoning, resolution, reductio ad absurdum, and the so-called constructive dilemma.
PHYSARUM SPATIAL LOGIC
Authors: SCHUMANN ANDREW , ADAMATZKY ANDY
Published: September 2011

Plasmodium of Physarum polycephalum is a large single cell capable for distributed sensing, information processing, decentralized decision-making and collective action. In the paper, we interpret basic features of the plasmodium foraging behavior in terms of process calculus and spatial logic and show that this behavior could be regarded as one of the natural implementations of spatial logic without modal operators.
VALIDATION AND AGENT-BASED MODELING: A PRACTICE OF CONTRASTING SIMULATION RESULTS WITH EMPIRICAL DATA
Authors: LIU FRANK C. S.
Published: September 2011

As an emerging approach to explore the dynamics of voter preference, agent-based modeling (ABM) highlights new opportunities for intellectual exchange across disciplines, such as mathematics, political science, communication studies, and computer science. By aiming to contribute to cross-disciplinary communication for a better application of this approach, this paper summarizes what scholars have done about internal and external validation and presents a comparison between statistical analysis based on datasets generated in a laboratory and analysis based on corresponding empirical datasets. The results of the comparison suggest that, although there is no perfect matching, the comparison reveals some similarities in terms of increase or decrease in the proportion of different types of agents. This result further implies that an internally valid ABM model may lead to a certain level of external validity.
A role for two-pore K+ channels in modulating Na+ absorption and Cl− secretion in normal human bronchial epithelial cells
Authors: Zhao Ke-Qing , Xiong Guoxiang , Wilber Morgan , Cohen Noam A. , Kreindler James L.
Published: September 2011

Mucociliary clearance is the primary innate physical defense mechanism against inhaled pathogens and toxins. Vectorial ion transport, primarily sodium absorption and anion secretion, by airway epithelial cells supports mucociliary clearance. This is evidenced by diseases of abnormal ion transport such as cystic fibrosis and pseudohypoaldosteronism that are characterized by changes in mucociliary clearance. Sodium absorption and chloride secretion in human bronchial epithelial cells depend on potassium channel activity, which creates a favorable electrochemical gradient for both by hyperpolarizing the apical plasma membrane. Although the role of basolateral membrane potassium channels is firmly established and extensively studied, a role for apical membrane potassium channels has also been described. Here, we demonstrate that bupivacaine and quinidine, blockers of four-transmembrane domain, two-pore potassium (K2P) channels, inhibit both amiloride-sensitive sodium absorption and forskolin-stimulated anion secretion in polarized, normal human bronchial epithelial cells at lower concentrations when applied to the mucosal surface than when applied to the serosal surface. Transcripts from four genes, KCNK1 (TWIK-1), KCNK2 (TREK-1), KCNK5 (TASK-2), and KCNK6 (TWIK-2), encoding K2P channels were identified by RT-PCR. Protein expression at the apical membrane was confirmed by immunofluorescence. Our data provide further evidence that potassium channels, in particular K2P channels, are expressed and functional in the apical membrane of airway epithelial cells where they may be targets for therapeutic manipulation.
The Role of Bone Marrow-Derived Adult Stem Cells in a Transgenic Mouse Model of Allergic Asthma
Authors: Ou-Yang Hai-Feng , Han Xin-Peng , Zhao Feng , Ti Xin-Yu , Wu Chang-Gui
Published: September 2011

Background: Asthmatic airway remodeling is an abnormal injury/repair process of the small airways caused by chronic inflammation in which the quantities of multiple cells increase dramatically. However, the origin of these proliferative cells is still undetermined. Objective: The aim of this study was to examine whether bone marrow (BM)-derived adult stem cells are responsible for the proliferative cells in asthmatic airway remodeling. Methods: Adult mice were durably engrafted with BM isolated from green fluorescent protein (GFP) transgenic mice. Using GFP BM chimera mice, an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced chronic asthma mouse model was established. The distribution of BM-derived GFP+ cells in the lungs of chronic asthma mice was detected by fluorescence microscopy. The phenotype of BM-derived GFP+ cells in the lung tissues of chronic asthma mice was analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: BM chimera mice were successfully generated, with no detectable radioactive inflammation observed. Using BM chimera mice, we established a mouse model of chronic asthma characterized by a significant increase in the thickness of the airway subepithelial basement membrane and smooth muscle layers. OVA treatment caused many GFP+ cells to appear at sites of small airway inflammation. The extravascular localization of some GFP+ cells and their morphology were not consistent with leukocytes. Flow cytometric analysis of lung cells revealed a significant increase in type I collagen (Col I)+GFP+ cells and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)+GFP+ cells in OVA-treated GFP BM chimera mice. Conclusions: Considerable numbers of Col I- and α-SMA-producing cells originated from BM in the lung tissues of mice with OVA-induced chronic asthma.
Phase I Study of Two Schedules of Oral S-1 in Combination with Fixed Doses of Oxaliplatin and Bevacizumab in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Chung Ki Y. , Saito Kaku , Zergebel Christopher , Hollywood Ellen , Segal Michal , Saltz Leonard B.
Published: September 2011

Background: S-1 is a novel oral agent combining the 5-fluorouracil (FU) prodrug tegafur with gimeracil and oteracil, which inhibit 5-FU degradation by dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase and phosphorylation within the gastrointestinal tract, respectively. The study was designed to identify the maximum tolerable dose and the dose-limiting toxicities of two schedules of S-1 combined with oxaliplatin and bevacizumab, in advanced solid tumor patients. Methods: Schedule A: S-1 was administered orally at 20 mg/m2 twice daily for 14 consecutive days, escalated by 5 mg/m2, with fixed-dose intravenous bevacizumab 7.5 mg/kg and oxaliplatin 130 mg/m2 on day 1 of each 3-week cycle. Schedule B: S-1 was administered at 25 mg/m2 twice daily for 7 consecutive days, escalated by 5 mg/m2, with fixed-dose intravenous bevacizumab 5 mg/kg and oxaliplatin 85 mg/m2 on day 1 of each 2-week cycle. Results: The maximum tolerated dose and recommended phase II dose of S-1 was 25 mg/m2 twice daily for 14 days for schedule A and 35 mg/m2 twice daily for 7 days for schedule B. The most common dose-limiting toxicities were grade 3 diarrhea. Both regimens were well tolerated. No pharmacokinetic interactions between oxaliplatin and S-1 components were observed. Conclusions: S-1, oxaliplatin and bevacizumab can be administered with acceptable safety and tolerability and without evidence of pharmacokinetic interactions.
Impact of Factor VIII and von Willebrand Factor Plasma Levels on Cerebral Venous and Sinus Thrombosis: Are They Independent Risk Factors?
Authors: Shahsavarzadeh T. , Javanmard S.H. , Saadatnia M.
Published: September 2011

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the plasma levels of factor VIII (FVIII), von Willebrand factor (vWF) and their association in patients with cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). Methods: We prospectively included 25 CVST patients admitted to the university hospital and 53 voluntary subjects as a control group. FVIII and vWF were measured after 6 months when anticoagulant therapy was stopped. Results: The mean FVIII and vWF levels were significantly higher in the CVST group compared to the control group (126.21 ± 54.69 vs. 91.9 ± 48.8 IU/dl; p = 0. 012; 157.05 ± 107.74 vs. 94 ± 84%; p = 0.01, respectively). Using analyses calculating the 95th percentile cut-off values, we found high levels of FVIII in patients compared to controls (29.2 vs. 5%; p = 0.01) and the odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was 7.82 (1.46, 41.6). After adjustment for vWF levels, sex and age, the risk remained significantly increased and the odds ratio with 95% CI was 10.5 (1.1, 101.4) (p = 0.041). Conclusion: FVIII is one of the most prevalent risk factors of CVST and may be associated with an approximately tenfold increased risk for developing CVST. This effect is independent of vWF levels; however, vWF is not an independent risk factor of CVST.
Interleukin-10 Deficiency Impairs Bone Marrow–Derived Endothelial Progenitor Cell Survival and Function in Ischemic Myocardium
Authors: Krishnamurthy Prasanna , Thal Melissa , Verma Suresh , Hoxha Eneda , Lambers Erin , Ramirez Veronica , Qin Gangjian , Losordo Douglas , Kishore Raj
Published: September 2011

Rationale:

Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) survival and function in the injured myocardium is adversely influenced by hostile microenvironment such as ischemia, hypoxia, and inflammatory response, thereby compromising full benefits of EPC-mediated myocardial repair.

Objective:

We hypothesized that interleukin-10 (IL-10) modulates EPC biology leading to enhanced survival and function after transplantation in the ischemic myocardium.

Methods and Results:

Myocardial infarction (MI)-induced mobilization of bone marrow EPC (Sca-1+Flk1+cells) into the circulation was significantly impaired in IL-10 knockout (KO) mice. Bone marrow transplantation to replace IL-10 KO marrow with wild-type (WT) marrow attenuated these effects. Impaired mobilization was associated with lower stromal cell–derived factor (SDF)-1 expression levels in the myocardium of KO mice. Interestingly, SDF-1 administration reversed mobilization defect in KO mice. In vitro, hypoxia-mediated increases in CXCR4 expression and cell survival were lower in IL-10–deficient EPCs. Furthermore, SDF-1–induced migration of WT EPCs was inhibited by AMD3100, an inhibitor of CXCR4. To further study the effect of IL-10 on in vivo EPC survival and engraftment into vascular structures, GFP-labeled EPC were injected intramyocardially after induction of MI, and the mice were treated with either saline or recombinant IL-10. The IL-10–treated group showed increased retention of transplanted EPCs in the myocardium and was associated with significantly reduced EPC apoptosis after MI. Interestingly, increased EPC retention and their association with the vascular structures was observed in IL-10–treated mice. Increased EPC survival and angiogenesis in the myocardium of IL-10–treated mice corroborated with improved left ventricular function, reduced infarct size, and fibrosis in the myocardium. In vitro, IL-10–induced increase in VEGF expression in WT EPC was abrogated by STAT3 inhibitor, suggesting IL-10 signals through STAT3 activation.

Conclusions:

Taken together, our studies demonstrate that MI-induced EPC mobilization was impaired in IL-10 KO mice and that IL-10 increases EPC survival and function possibly through activation of STAT3/VEGF signaling cascades, leading to attenuation of MI-induced left ventricular dysfunction and remodeling.
Failure of Cerebral Hemodynamic Selection in General or of Specific Positron Emission Tomography Methodology?
Authors: Carlson Andrew P. , Yonas Howard , Chang Yue-Fang , Nemoto Edwin M.
Published: September 2011

Background and Purpose—

The Carotid Occlusion Surgery Study (COSS) was an improvement over the Extracranial–Intracranial Bypass Study, which did not utilize physiological selection. To assess possible reasons for early closure of the COSS trial, we reviewed COSS methods used to identify high-risk patients and compared results with separate quantitative data.

Methods—

Increased oxygen extraction fraction (OEF) by positron emission tomography is a gold standard for ischemia, but the specific thresholds and equivalency of the semiquantitative OEF ratio utilized in COSS and quantitative OEF are at issue.

Results—

The semiquantitative hemispheric OEF ratio used in COSS did not identify the same group of patients as did quantitative OEF using a threshold of 50%.

Conclusions—

The failure of COSS is likely caused by a failure of the semiquantitative, hemispheric OEF ratio method rather than by the selection for bypass based on hemodynamic compromise.
Influence of COMT val158met and ADRA2B deletion polymorphisms on recollection and familiarity components of human emotional memory
Authors: Naudts KH , Azevedo RT , David AS , van Heeringen C , Gibbs AA
Published: September 2011

Emotional enhancement of memory is a widely accepted phenomenon that, in addition to its adaptive role, may play a role in the evolution of psychiatric disorders. Hence a comprehensive understanding of its neurobiological basis is imperative. Whilst the pharmacological and neural mechanisms are well known, the contribution of genetic variation is not. Research suggests that two qualitatively different processes (recollection and familiarity) contribute to recognition memory. In this study, we examined the relative contribution of two common genetic polymorphisms, the deletion variant of the ADRA2B gene that codes the α2b adrenergic receptor and the val158met polymorphism of the COMT gene that codes the catechol-O-methyltransferase enzyme, to emotional enhancement of these two memory processes in 97 healthy male volunteers. There was a significant interaction between COMT genotype and emotional arousal in relation to recollection, but not familiarity, with the former being significantly elevated for emotionally arousing versus neutral pictures in carriers of the val158 allele compared with met158 carriers. There were no main effects or interactions in relation to ADRA2B genotype.
Harold Garfinkel (29 October 1917 – 21 April 2011): A remembrance and reminder
Authors: Lynch Michael
Published: September 2011

This essay is a remembrance and also a reminder of Harold Garfinkel’s contributions to science studies. Garfinkel is best known as the founder of ethnomethodology, the sociological investigation of the production and coordination of ‘methods’ in non-scientific as well as scientific settings. In addition to studying the tacit organization of everyday activities, Garfinkel and his students also investigated practices in the natural and social sciences that elude formal methodological prescriptions and reports. Garfinkel’s work sometimes is acknowledged as a precursor to early ethnographies of scientific laboratories, but this essay argues that his conceptual and methodological innovations continue to have a pervasive, though often unacknowledged, place in science and technology studies and related fields.
Midterm Results of the Treatment of Cartilage Defects in the Knee Using Alginate Beads Containing Human Mature Allogenic Chondrocytes
Authors: Dhollander Aad A.M. , Verdonk Peter C.M. , Lambrecht Stijn , Verdonk René , Elewaut Dirk , Verbruggen Gust , Almqvist Karl Fredrik
Published: September 2011

Background: The treatment of chondral lesions is still an important challenge for the orthopaedic surgeon. Attempts have been made to restore cartilage lesions by filling the defects with a temporary biocompatible matrix.

Purpose: The authors present their midterm experience with the implantation of alginate beads containing human mature allogenic chondrocytes for the treatment of cartilage lesions in the knee.

Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods: A biodegradable, alginate-based biocompatible scaffold containing human mature allogenic chondrocytes was used for the treatment of cartilage lesions in the knee. Twenty-one patients were clinically prospectively evaluated with use of the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) and a visual analog scale (VAS). The mean follow-up time was 6.3 years (range, 5-8 years). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data were analyzed based on the MOCART (Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue) system, allowing morphologic assessment of the repair tissue. Magnetic resonance images were taken at 1 year of follow-up and at a mean follow-up of 6.1 years (range, 5-7 years).

Results: During the follow-up period, the WOMAC and VAS scores improved significantly. No signs of clinical deterioration or adverse reactions to the alginate beads/allogenic chondrocyte implantation were observed. Four failures occurred during the follow-up period in this study (19.05%). The MOCART scores were moderate and remained stable in time.

Conclusion: This investigation provided useful information on the efficacy of the implantation of alginate beads containing human mature allogenic chondrocytes for the treatment of cartilage lesions in the knee. The midterm clinical outcome of the presented technique was satisfactory. However, these results were not confirmed by the MRI findings.
On planar oscillations of a body with a variable mass distribution in an elliptic orbit
Authors: Burov A , Kosenko I
Published: September 2011

Planar motion of an orbiting body having a variable mass distribution in a central field of gravity is under analysis. Within the so-called ‘satellite approximation’ planar attitude dynamics is reduced to the 3/2-degrees of freedom description by one ODE of second order. The law of the mass distribution variations implying an existence of the special relative equilibria, such that the body is oriented pointing to the attracting centre by the same axis for any value of the orbit eccentricity is indicated. For particular example of an orbiting dumb-bell equipped by a massive cabin, wandering between the ends of the dumb-bell. For this example stability of the equilibria such that the dumb-bell ‘points to’ the attracting centre by one of its ends is studied. The chaoticity of global dynamics is investigated. Two important examples of a vibrating dumb-bell and of a dumb-bell equipped by a cabin wandering between its endpoints are considered. The dynamics of space objects, including moving elements, has been investigated by many authors. These studies usually have been connected with the necessity to estimate the influence of relative motions of moving parts, for example, crew motions [ 1 , 2 ], circulation of liquids [ 3 ], etc. on the attitude dynamics of a spacecraft. The development of projects of large-scale space systems with mobile elements, in particular, of satellite systems with tethered elements and space elevators, has posed problems related to their dynamics. Various aspects of the role of mass distribution even for the simplest orbiting systems, like dumb-bell systems are known since the publications [ 4 – 7 ], etc. The possibility of the sudden loss of stability because of the mass redistribution has been pointed out in reference [ 8 ] (see also references [ 9 – 13 ]).

The considered system belongs to the mentioned class of systems and represents by itself one of the simplest systems allowing both analytical and numerical treatment, without supplementary simplifying assumptions such as smallness of the orbital eccentricity. Another set of applied problems is related to orientation keeping of the system for deployment and retrieval of tethered subsatellites as well as for relative cabin motions of space elevators. In particular, the problem of the stabilization/destabilization possibility for the given state of motion due to rapid oscillations of the cabin exists. This could be the subject of another additional investigation.
Viscous damping issues in the dimension reduction of a fluid conveying tube
Authors: Steindl A
Published: September 2011

We consider the dimension reduction of an already discretized model for a fluid-conveying tube by the linear and non-linear Galerkin method. We show, how the viscous damping parameter affects the distribution of the eigenvalues for the system and how this distribution influences the convergence of the approximation. By a simple mechanical model, it is also demonstrated that the Galerkin method may fail completely, if the energy dissipation is governed by the stable modes.
Computational modelling of laser treatment of plates for increased buckling loads and natural frequencies
Authors: Bilik C , Rammerstorfer F G , Figala G , Buchmayr B
Published: September 2011

As a special measure in lightweight design, residual stresses can be used for improving the stability and vibration behaviour of thin-walled structures. In contrast to the common practice of inducing proper residual stresses by mechanically caused local plastic deformation, in the present paper it is shown by numerical procedures as well as by experiments how such beneficial residual stresses can be produced by a proper heat treatment using laser. This is shown by simple plate examples, for proof of concept.

A finite element approach is combined with algorithms simulating the heat input from laser beams. The analyses comprise investigations of a single laser dot for studying the fundamental behaviour of laser treatment according to the abovementioned aspects, and – for practical applications – continuously moving and intermittently acting beams are considered. Unwanted effects, such as distortions and possible instabilities appearing during the laser treatment, are considered as well, and methods are presented for avoiding them.

A number of generic laser tracks as well as patterns of laser dots of different configurations are investigated. Experiments were performed which confirm the potential of laser treatment of plates for improving stability and dynamic behaviour.
On the impact of ultrasonic cavitation bubbles
Authors: Abdullah A , Malaki M , Baghizadeh E
Published: September 2011

The main purpose of this study was to determine the impulse of a bubble on a solid surface or the amount of energy transmitted to the surface by the bubble. To do this, the results of previous numerical studies were used to derive a relationship between the speed of microjet and acoustic pressure amplitude. It was found that the speed of microjet is proportional to the logarithm of the acoustic pressure amplitude. Aluminium foil specimens were exposed to cavitation for 3 s and the dimensions of pits generated on specimens were measured. Then, the deformation energy of each pit and the corresponding impulse were calculated. The trend of experimental results was in a good agreement with the theoretical ones but their exact values were not.
Development of hysteresis friction model for a precise tracking control system
Authors: Choi J
Published: September 2011

Hysteresis friction model for a tracking control system of the mechanical system was proposed in this article. Hysteresis phenomena within a microscopic displacement range were verified through experiments, and Preisach model was applied to the proposed friction model. To implement the Preisach model, the neural network algorithm was used to replace the distribute function of Preisach model. A weighing vector of the neural network was updated through the back-propagation learning method. The performance of the proposed hysteresis friction model was evaluated through the tracking control of a ball-screw system. In order to design the tracking control system, sliding mode controller was designed and the proposed friction model was applied as a feed-forward term of controller.