bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Young adults’ management of Type 1 diabetes during life transitions
Authors: Rasmussen Bodil , Ward Glenn , Jenkins Alicia , King Susan J , Dunning Trisha
Published: May 2011

Aim.  To identify life transitions likely to impact diabetes self‐care among young adults with Type 1 diabetes and their coping strategies during transition events.

Background.  Relationships among psychosocial stress, adjustment, coping and metabolic control affect clinical outcomes and mental health. Life transitions represent major change and are associated with stress that temporarily affects individuals’ problem‐solving, coping abilities and blood glucose levels.

Design.  A qualitative interpretive inquiry.

Method.  Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 20 young adults with Type 1 diabetes and a constant comparative analysis method. Data and analysis was managed using QSR© NVivo 7 software.

Results.  Participants identified two significant transition groups: life development associated with adolescence, going through the education system, entering new relationships, motherhood and the workforce and relocating. Diabetes‐related transitions included being diagnosed, developing diabetes complications, commencing insulin pump treatment and going on diabetes camps. Participants managed transitions using ‘strategic thinking and planning’ with strategies of ‘self‐negotiation to minimise risks’; ‘managing diabetes using previous experiences’; ‘connecting with others with diabetes’; ‘actively seeing information to ‘patch’ knowledge gaps’; and ‘putting diabetes into perspective’.

Conclusions.  Several strategies are used to manage diabetes during transitions. Thinking and planning strategically was integral to glycaemic control and managing transitions. The impact of transitions on diabetes needs to be explored in larger and longitudinal studies to identify concrete strategies that assist diabetes care during life transitions.

Relevance to clinical practice.  It is important for health professionals to understand the emotional, social and cognitive factors operating during transitions to assist young adults with Type 1 diabetes to achieve good health outcomes by prioritising goals and plan flexible, timely, individualised and collaborative treatment.
Range‐wide population genetic structure of Symbiodinium associated with the Caribbean Sea fan coral, Gorgonia ventalina
Authors: ANDRAS JASON P. , KIRK NATHAN L. , DREW HARVELL C.
Published: May 2011

Numerous marine invertebrates form endosymbiotic relationships with dinoflagellates of the genus Symbiodinium, yet few studies have examined the population structure of these symbionts. Here, we elucidate the population genetic structure of Symbiodinium harboured by the Caribbean octocoral Gorgonia ventalina throughout the entire range of the host. We used ten microsatellite loci to survey 35 localities spanning 3124 km across the Caribbean and Western Atlantic. Diversity of Symbiodinium haplotypes was low within colonies of G. ventalina but high among colonies. Despite high haplotypic diversity, significant evidence of clonal reproduction in Symbiodinium was detected, and most clones occurred within localities, not among them. Pairwise measures of FST illustrated significant differentiation in 98% of comparisons between localities, suggesting low levels of gene flow. Clustering analyses identified six genetic groups whose distribution delimited four broad biogeographic regions. There was evidence of some connectivity among regions, corresponding with known geographic and oceanographic features. Fine‐scale spatial surveys of G. ventalina colonies failed to detect differentiation among Symbiodinium at the metre scale. However, significant differentiation was observed among Symbiodinium hosted by sympatric G. ventalina colonies of different size/age classes. This cohort effect suggests that Symbiodinium may have an epidemic population structure, whereby G. ventalina recruits are infected by the locally predominant symbiont strain(s), which change over time.
Functional analysis of the Listeria monocytogenes secretion chaperone PrsA2 and its multiple contributions to bacterial virulence
Authors: Alonzo III Francis , Xayarath Bobbi , Whisstock James C. , Freitag Nancy E.
Published: May 2011

As an organism that has evolved to live in environments ranging from soil to the cytosol of mammalian cells, Listeria monocytogenes must regulate the secretion and activity of protein products that promote survival within these habitats. The post‐translocation chaperone PrsA2 has been adapted to assist in the folding and activity of L. monocytogenes secreted proteins required for bacterial replication within host cells. Here we present the first structure/function investigation of the contributions of PrsA2 to protein secretion and activity as well as to bacterial virulence. Domain swap experiments with the closely related L. monocytogenes PrsA1 protein combined with targeted mutagenesis indicate distinct functional roles for the PrsA2 peptidyl‐prolyl isomerase (PPIase) and the N‐ and C‐terminal domains in pathogenesis. In contrast to other PrsA‐like proteins described thus far in the literature, an absolute in vivo requirement for PrsA2 PPIase activity is evident in mouse infection models. This work illustrates the diversity of function associated with L. monocytogenes PrsA2 that serves to promote bacterial life within the infected host.
Pyroclastic density currents from Teide–Pico Viejo (Tenerife, Canary Islands): implications for hazard assessment
Authors: García Olaya , Martí Joan , Aguirre Gerardo , Geyer Adelina , Iribarren Ilazkiñe
Published: May 2011

Terra Nova, 23, 220–224, 2011

The Teide–Pico Viejo stratovolcanoes constitute one of the major potentially active volcanic complexes in Europe but have traditionally been considered to be non‐explosive and not to represent a significant threat to the island of Tenerife. However, the reconstruction of their eruptive record is still far from complete, and better knowledge of their volcano‐stratigraphy and physical volcanology is required to undertake a comprehensive hazard assessment of these volcanoes. We conducted a detailed field investigation of the northern side of Teide–Pico Viejo, a poorly known area, and identified several deposits of explosive eruptions of phonolitic magmas. Herein we report for the first time the presence of density current deposits, including ignimbrites and block and ash deposits, in the Holocene eruptive history of the Teide–Pico Viejo stratovolcanoes. We discuss the characteristics of these deposits, their eruption mechanisms and their implications for hazard assessment at Teide–Pico Viejo.
Occupational exposure to laboratory animals causing a severe exacerbation of atopic eczema
Authors: Bhabha Friyana K , Nixon Rosemary
Published: May 2011

A 24‐year‐old man with a long history of severe atopic eczema presented with a marked exacerbation requiring hospital admission. It emerged that his occupation as an animal house technician required him to work closely with laboratory animals, particularly mice and rats. Radioallergosorbent tests to mice allergens were markedly elevated. Avoidance of animal work, in conjunction with medical treatment, resulted in a marked improvement of his eczema.
Acetylcholine controls mouse oocyte maturation via downregulation of cAMP
Authors: Yoon Sook‐Young , Choe Changyong , Kim Eun‐Jin , Kim Chang‐Woon , Han Jaehee , Kang Dawon
Published: May 2011

1. In mice, acetylcholine (ACh) plays an important role in oocyte activation and embryonic development. However, the role of ACh in mouse oocyte maturation has not been investigated.

2. In the present study, the effects of 100 μmol/L and 1 mmol/L ACh on maturation processes of murine germinal vesicle (GV) intact oocytes (GV oocytes) exposed to 10 and 100 μmol/L 3‐isobutyl‐1‐methylxanthine (IBMX), an inhibitor of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase, were evaluated morphologically and immunologically. It has been shown that IBMX inhibits the resumption of meiosis by preventing cAMP breakdown.

3. In the present study, at the start of in vitro culture 100% of oocytes were at the GV stage. After 18 h culture, 95 ± 3, 0 and 85.8 ± 10.2% of oocytes had passed the GV stage in the control, IBMX and IBMX + ACh groups, respectively. The IBMX‐induced inhibition of the maturation process was significantly attenuated by approximately 90% by ACh in groups treated with 10 μmol/L IBMX + 100 μmol/L ACh and 100 μmol/L IBMX + 1 mmol/L ACh. Although cAMP levels were high in oocytes treated with 100 μmol/L IBMX, levels were reduced in groups treated simultaneously with 100 μmol/L ACh. Furthermore, compared with mature oocytes, ACh‐treated GV oocytes exhibited significantly lower (by approximately 2.3‐fold) or absent Ca2+ peaks.

4. The results of the present study indicate that maturation of GV oocytes, arrested by IBMX treatment, is resumed following ACh treatment and that this effect is due to downregulation of cAMP rather than changes in intracellular Ca2+ levels.
Decoupling of reproduction and growth: an unusual pattern in the life cycle of the Mediterranean geophyte Narcissus serotinus
Authors: MARQUES ISABEL , DRAPER DAVID
Published: May 2011

The unpredictable seasonality of the Mediterranean climate imposes on the development of specific life‐cycle phenologies such as those seen in geophyte species that have a period of dormancy to avoid stressful abiotic conditions. To date, two life‐cycle strategies are recognized in Mediterranean geophytes. In some species, growth and reproduction occur in different seasons (hysteranthous geophytes), whereas in others these two processes occur at the same time (synanthous geophytes). A study of the life cycle of the autumnal‐flowering Narcissus serotinus in three populations over two consecutive years confirmed that neither the hysteranthy nor the synanthy strategy could be applied to this geophyte. Rather, reproduction and growth occur simultaneously, but in different plants. A strong correlation was found between bulb weight and the presence of reproductive or vegetative plants.
Effects of exercise treatment with or without heat and steam generating sheet on urine loss in community‐dwelling Japanese elderly women with urinary incontinence
Authors: Kim Hunkyung , Yoshida Hideyo , Suzuki Takao
Published: May 2011

Aim:  To determine the effects of exercise treatment with or without heat and steam generating sheet (HSGS) on reducing urine loss in community‐dwelling elderly women with urinary incontinence (UI).

Methods:  One hundred and forty‐seven community‐dwelling women aged 70 years and older with stress, urge and mixed UI were randomly assigned to exercise + HSGS (n = 37), exercise only (n = 37), HSGS only (n = 37) or an education group (n = 36). Exercise + HSGS, and exercise groups received exercise training twice a week for 3 months. When the HSGS was placed on the lower back, the temperature of the skin surface rose to 38–40°C and it continued to generate heat and steam for over 5 h. The HSGS group used one sheet per day continuously for 3 months. Urine loss and fitness data were collected at baseline and after intervention.

Results:  The intervention groups showed significant improvements in muscle strength and walking speed compared to the education group. Exercise and HSGS showed urine loss cure rates of 54.1%, exercise 34.3% and HSGS 21.6% after treatment; whereas, the education group (2.9%) showed no significant improvement (χ2=21.89, P < 0.001). Combining the HSGS to the exercise intervention showed a 61.5% cure rate for stress UI, 50.0% urge UI and 40.0% mixed UI.

Conclusion:  This data suggests that exercise treatment with HSGS is more effective for treating urine loss regardless of UI type. The HSGS can be used as a supplementary treatment method to enhance the effects of exercise on women with urge, mixed and stress UI. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2011; 11: 452–459.
Definitions related to the use of pharmaceutical opioids: Extramedical use, diversion, non‐adherence and aberrant medication‐related behaviours
Authors: LARANCE BRIONY , DEGENHARDT LOUISA , LINTZERIS NICK , WINSTOCK ADAM , MATTICK RICHARD
Published: May 2011

Aims. This paper (i) reviews the language used to describe and manage those patient practices that fall outside standard medical models of opioid treatment (for pain and opioid dependence), and (ii) proposes a consistent terminology that can be applied across multiple healthcare settings.

Method. Peer‐reviewed and grey literature documenting empirical studies of (non‐)adherence with opioid treatment, proposed definitions or other potentially important aspects of terminology were included in this review.

Results. There are international inconsistencies in the terminology used to describe the unintended consequences of opioid treatment, and the terms used often lack specificity. The terms ‘hazardous use’, ‘extramedical use’, ‘opioid dependence’, ‘diversion’, ‘non‐adherence’ and ‘aberrant behaviours’ are defined. We advocate for consistent application of these terms in the context of opioid treatment, and propose that care is taken to describe individual practices and intentions.

Conclusions. The increasing global attention on the use and diversion of pharmaceutical opioids warrants a discussion of current terms and definitions. Exaggerated concerns regarding ‘addiction potential’ may result in restrictions in the supply of opioids and the under‐treatment of legitimate medical conditions. Researchers, clinicians, policy‐makers and patients need to ensure greater care is given to terminology, including detailed descriptions of patient practices, the context in which they occur and severity of associated harm.[Larance B, Degenhardt L, Lintzeris N, Winstock A, Mattick R. Definitions related to the use of pharmaceutical opioids: Extramedical use, diversion, non‐adherence and aberrant medication‐related behaviours. Drug Alcohol Rev 2011;30:236–245]
Micro‐analysis of a therapist‐generated metaphor referring to the position of a parentified child in the family
Authors: Van Parys Hanna , Rober Peter
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this exploratory study is to develop a deeper understanding of the way in which the metaphorical language of therapists evolves in dialogue with a client over the course of a therapeutic session. We first briefly report on a study in which we categorized the metaphors used by therapists in twelve therapy sessions with a role‐played client. Then we focus on an intensive micro‐analysis of one particular metaphor that was introduced in the session by one particular therapist in the categorization study: the metaphor of a fireman in the family. Our analysis allowed us a detailed look at some of the ways in which metaphorical language opens dialogical space in the session to talk about the position of parentification of the client and about the price she has to pay for this position in terms of preoccupying worries and loneliness. Furthermore our analysis revealed the delicate dialogical nature of the therapeutic process in which, in talk, the therapist takes the client's experiencing into account all the time.
SEMANTIC MAPPING FROM NATURAL LANGUAGE QUESTIONS TO OWL QUERIES
Authors: Gao Mingxia , Liu Jiming , Zhong Ning , Chen Furong , Liu Chunnian
Published: May 2011

Natural language question‐and‐answering is one of the most convenient means for communicating with the Semantic Web, which is typically in the form of online knowledge bases encoded in Web Ontology Language (OWL). To understand a natural language question, it is essential that it can be translated into a query that is understandable by the knowledge bases. This article is concerned with the task of semantic mapping from natural language questions to OWL queries, and proposes an automatic and domain‐independent mapping framework, called Three‐Phases Semantic Mapping (TPSM). The TPSM framework approaches the task of semantic mapping in three interrelated phases: (i) formalizing knowledge, (ii) building semantic mapping, and (iii) combining OWL queries. First, formalizing knowledge formalizes the units of mapping in the natural language and OWL knowledge. Second, semantic mapping builds the transverse mapping between questions and OWL knowledge, as formalized in the first phase, by means of working with the so‐called Fuzzy Constraint Satisfaction Problems (FCSP). Third, combining OWL queries obtains valid Resource Description Framework (RDF) models by applying predefined templates and their corresponding combining methods. We have implemented a prototype semantic mapping system based on the framework, and have conducted a series of experimental validations involving OWL knowledge bases in different domains as queried by various types of questions.
Comparison of whole blood and plasma colloid osmotic pressure in healthy dogs
Authors: Odunayo Adesola , Kerl Marie E.
Published: May 2011

Objective –To determine the difference between colloid osmotic pressure (COP) values determined from plasma versus those determined from whole blood.

Design –Prospective observational study.

Settings –University veterinary teaching hospital.

Animals –Fifty‐three healthy dogs.

Interventions –None.

Measurements and Main Results –Whole blood and plasma COP, CBC, plasma biochemistry. In all dogs, plasma COP values were significantly lower (P=0.02) than whole blood COP, with a mean of difference of 0.5 mm Hg. The mean and median whole blood COP was 21.75 and 21.4 mm Hg, respectively, with a range of 17.9–27.1 mm Hg. The mean and median plasma COP was 21.2 and 20.9 mm Hg with a range of 16.7–28.9 mm Hg.

Conclusions –While significant difference exists between plasma and whole blood COP, the individual values are within expected reference intervals for dogs (21–25 mm Hg). Using either sample appears to provide the same information in clinically healthy dog; however, it is recommended that clinicians utilize the same sample type for comparison in an individual patient.
Improving Relations Between Residents and Immigrants
Authors: Stephan Walter G.
Published: May 2011

In this article, I argue that the psychological basis of many of the problems associated with immigration can be traced to tangible threats, cultural threats, fears of change, and the negative attitudes and misperceptions that flow from these threats and fears. Concrete suggestions are made for policies at the societal and individual levels that can counteract these problems. In addition, specific programs are suggested to improve relations between residents and immigrants. The article ends with a discussion of some of the psychological processes that underlie improvements in intergroup relations.
Estimated Rate of Fatal Automobile Accidents Attributable to Acute Solvent Exposure at Low Inhaled Concentrations
Authors: Benignus Vernon A. , Bushnell Philip J. , Boyes William K.
Published: May 2011

Acute solvent exposures may contribute to automobile accidents because they increase reaction time and decrease attention, in addition to impairing other behaviors. These effects resemble those of ethanol consumption, both with respect to behavioral effects and neurological mechanisms. These observations, along with the extensive data on the relationship between ethanol consumption and fatal automobile accidents, suggested a way to estimate the probability of fatal automobile accidents from solvent inhalation. The problem can be approached using the logic of the algebraic transitive postulate of equality: if A=B and B=C, then A=C. We first calculated a function describing the internal doses of solvent vapors that cause the same magnitude of behavioral impairment as ingestion of ethanol (A=B). Next, we fit a function to data from the literature describing the probability of fatal car crashes for a given internal dose of ethanol (B=C). Finally, we used these two functions to generate a third function to estimate the probability of a fatal car crash for any internal dose of organic solvent vapor (A=C). This latter function showed quantitatively (1) that the likelihood of a fatal car crash is increased by acute exposure to organic solvent vapors at concentrations less than 1.0 ppm, and (2) that this likelihood is similar in magnitude to the probability of developing leukemia from exposure to benzene. This approach could also be applied to other potentially adverse consequences of acute exposure to solvents (e.g., nonfatal car crashes, property damage, and workplace accidents), if appropriate data were available.
Six Distributional Effects of Environmental Policy
Authors: Fullerton Don
Published: May 2011

While prior literature has identified various effects of environmental policy, this note uses the example of a proposed carbon permit system to illustrate and discuss six different types of distributional effects: (1) higher prices of carbon‐intensive products, (2) changes in relative returns to factors like labor, capital, and resources, (3) allocation of scarcity rents from a restricted number of permits, (4) distribution of the benefits from improvements in environmental quality, (5) temporary effects during the transition, and (6) capitalization of all those effects into prices of land, corporate stock, or house values. The note also discusses whether all six effects could be regressive, that is, whether carbon policy could place disproportionate burden on the poor.
Emergency Department Operations Dictionary: Results of the Second Performance Measures and Benchmarking Summit
Authors: Welch Shari J. , Stone‐Griffith Suzanne , Asplin Brent , Davidson Steven J. , Augustine James , Schuur Jeremiah D. ,   on behalf of The Second Performance Measures and Benchmarking Summit and the Emergency Department Benchmarking Alliance
Published: May 2011

Academic Emergency Medicine 2011; 18:539–544 © 2011 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine

The public, payers, hospitals, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) are demanding that emergency departments (EDs) measure and improve performance, but this cannot be done unless we define the terms used in ED operations. On February 24, 2010, 32 stakeholders from 13 professional organizations met in Salt Lake City, Utah, to standardize ED operations metrics and definitions, which are presented in this consensus paper. Emergency medicine (EM) experts attending the Second Performance Measures and Benchmarking Summit reviewed, expanded, and updated key definitions for ED operations. Prior to the meeting, participants were provided with the definitions created at the first summit in 2006 and relevant documents from other organizations and asked to identify gaps and limitations in the original work. Those responses were used to devise a plan to revise and update the definitions. At the summit, attendees discussed and debated key terminology, and workgroups were created to draft a more comprehensive document. These results have been crafted into two reference documents, one for metrics and the operations dictionary presented here. The ED Operations Dictionary defines ED spaces, processes, patient populations, and new ED roles. Common definitions of key terms will improve the ability to compare ED operations research and practice and provide a common language for frontline practitioners, managers, and researchers.
Prevalence and location of maxillary sinus septa in the Taiwanese population and relationship to the absence of molars
Authors: Shen E‐Chin , Fu Earl , Chiu Tsan‐Jen , Chang Virginia , Chiang Cheng‐Yang , Tu Hsiao‐Pei
Published: May 2011

Objectives: Understanding the septum structure of the sinus is necessary for correct implant placement in the maxilla if sinus encroachment is required. The exact mechanism that controls septum development is unclear, although a role for the irregular pneumatization of the sinus floor following tooth loss has been suggested. The aims of this study were to examine the prevalence and location of sinus septa in the Taiwanese population and to determine whether there is a relationship between the presence of septa and the absence of molars.

Materials and methods: Using computed tomography (CT) scans of sinuses obtained from 423 subjects (216 women and 207 men, mean age 53.65 years), septum morphology and its correlation with the presence of molars was examined.

Results: About 30% of subjects (124/423) had sinus septa, corresponding to 20.45% of all sinus segments detected (173/846). Fifty‐nine patients had multiple septa, giving a prevalence of septa of 22.93%. Septa were located most frequently in the regions of the first and second molars. The prevalence was not related to tooth loss (edentulous, partially edentulous, or dentate maxillary segments). Logistic regression analysis showed that men were significantly more likely to have septa than were women (OR=1.67; P=0.019).

Conclusions: In the 423 Taiwanese subjects tested, the prevalence of septum was 29.31% according to the subjects and 22.93% according to the sinus segments. The most frequent location of septa was in the region of the first and secondary molars. No correlation was observed between the presence of septa and the absence of molars.
Small Bites: star formation recipes in extreme dwarfs
Authors: Roychowdhury Sambit , Chengalur Jayaram N. , Kaisin Serafim S. , Begum Ayesha , Karachentsev Igor D.
Published: May 2011

We study the relationship between the gas column density (ΣHi) and the star formation rate surface density (SSFR) for a sample of extremely small (MB∼-13, ΔV50∼ 30 km s-1) dwarf irregular galaxies. We find a clear stochasticity in the relation between the gas column density and star formation. All gas with ΣHi ≳ M⊙ pc-2 has some ongoing star formation, but the fraction of the gas with ongoing star formation decreases as the gas column density decreases and falls to about 50 per cent at ΣHi ∼ M⊙ pc-2. Further, even for the most dense gas, the star formation efficiency is at least a factor of ∼2 smaller than typical of star-forming regions in spirals. We also find that the ratio of Hα emission to far-ultraviolet emission increases with the increasing gas column density. This is unlikely to be due to increasing dust extinction because the required dust-to-gas ratios are too high. We suggest instead that this correlation arises because massive (i.e. Ha-producing) stars are formed preferentially in regions with high gas density.
Reduction of Pesticide Residues on Fresh Vegetables with Electrolyzed Water Treatment
Authors: Hao Jianxiong , Wuyundalai  , Liu Haijie , Chen Tianpeng , Zhou Yanxin , Su Yi‐Cheng , Li Lite
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Degradation of the 3 pesticides (acephate, omethoate, and dimethyl dichloroviny phosphate [DDVP]) by electrolyzed water was investigated. These pesticides were commonly used as broad‐spectrum insecticides in pest control and high‐residual levels had been detected in vegetables. Our research showed that the electrolyzed oxidizing (EO) water (pH 2.3, available chlorine concentration:70 ppm, oxidation‐reduction potential [ORP]: 1170 mV) and the electrolyzed reducing (ER) water (pH 11.6, ORP: ‐860 mV) can reduce the pesticide residues effectively. Pesticide residues on fresh spinach after 30 min of immersion in electrolyzed water reduced acephate by 74% (EO) and 86% (ER), omethoate by 62% (EO) and 75% (ER), DDVP by 59% (EO) and 46% (ER), respectively. The efficacy of using EO water or ER water was found to be better than that of using tap water or detergent (both were reduced by more than 25%). Besides spinach, the cabbage and leek polluted by DDVP were also investigated and the degradation efficacies were similar to the spinach. Moreover, we found that the residual level of pesticide residue decreased with prolonged immersion time. Using EO or ER water to wash the vegetables did not affect the contents of Vitamin C, which inferred that the applications of EO or ER water to wash the vegetables would not result in loss of nutrition.

Practical Application:  With increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, presence of pesticide residues in fresh produce has become a health concern for consumers due to potential long‐term adverse effects on human health. In an attempt to find a better method to reduce the pesticide residues, the efficacy of electrolyzed oxidizing water (EO water) and electrolyzed reducing water (ER water) treatments on eliminating 3 pesticides (acephate, omethoate, and DDVP) commonly used in growing vegetables was investigated. This study demonstrated that electrolyzed water could be used to reduce pesticide residues on fresh vegetable and have a positive impact on ensuring safety of fresh vegetables for consumption.
Biomechanical characterisation of equine laryngeal cartilage
Authors: PASSMAN S. N. , CHEETHAM J. , BONASSAR L. J. , DUCHARME N. G. , RAWLINSON J. J.
Published: May 2011

Reasons for performing the study:Upper airway obstruction is a common problem in the performance horse as the soft tissues of the larynx collapse into the airway, yet there is a paucity of information on biomechanical properties for the structural cartilage components.

Objective:To measure the geometry and compressive mechanical properties of the hyaline cartilage to improve understanding of laryngeal function and morphology.

Methods:A total of 11 larynges were harvested from Thoroughbred and Standardbred racehorses. During gross dissection, linear dimensions of the cricoid were obtained. From both the cricoid and arytenoid, specimens were cored to obtain 6 mm disc samples from 3 sites within the dorsal cricoid (caudal, middle and rostral) and 2 central sites in the arytenoids (inner, outer). The specimens were mechanically tested using radial confined compression to calculate the aggregate modulus and permeability of the tissue. The biomechanical data were analysed using a nested mixed effects model.

Results:Geometrically, the cricoid has relatively straight walls compared to the morphology of human, ovine and canine larynges. There were significant observations of higher modulus with increasing age (0.13 MPa per year; P = 0.007) and stiffer cricoid cartilage (2.29 MPa) than the arytenoid cartilage (0.42 MPa; P<0.001), but no difference was observed between the left and right sides. Linear contrasts showed that the rostral aspect (2.51 MPa) of the cricoid was 20% stiffer than the caudal aspect (2.09 MPa; P = 0.025), with no difference between the arytenoid sites.

Conclusions:The equine larynx is a well supported structure due to both the geometry and material properties of the cricoid cartilage. The hyaline structure is an order of magnitude higher in compressive modulus compared to the arytenoids and other hyaline‐composed tissues.

Potential relevance:These characterisations are important to understand the biomechanics of laryngeal function and the mechanisms involved with surgical interventions.
China's Population Growing Slowly, Changing Fast
Authors: Hvistendahl Mara
Published: May 2011

Preliminary figures from China's 2010 census released last week show that the country is still growing—but not as quickly as during the previous decade.
NIH Wins in Appeals Court, But Legal Battle Continues
Authors: Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: May 2011

An appeals court last week threw out a temporary ban on the use of federal funds for human embryonic stem cell research.
Car-Crash Epidemiologist Pushes Systemic Attack on Bad Driving
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: May 2011

China, burdened with traffic casualties, is trying a "three-line defense": screening drivers for accident-proneness; training drivers to correct poor driving habits; and monitoring roads for dangerous conditions.
New Light on Ancient Samples
Authors: Balter Michael
Published: May 2011

Optically stimulated luminescence dating, which measures the time since grains of either quartz or feldspar were exposed to light, is the only method that can be used to date the actual sediments in which archaeological materials are found, back to at least 200,000 years ago.
LIFE SCIENCE TECHNOLOGIES: Sorting Cells for Medicine
Authors: Harding Anne
Published: May 2011

The basic technology for cell separation hasn't changed much over the past several years. What has changed dramatically is what those cells are being used for: treating patients. As the promise of cell therapy is gradually realized, researchers are searching for cell separation technologies that can solve some basic problems, such as improving cell processing speed and making processing as sterile as possible. Researchers already use a mix of density-gradient separation, magnetic separation, and flow cytometry to prep cells for clinical use but hope for newer chip-based technologies to help advance the field.
Intranasal Immunization of Ferrets with Commercial Trivalent Influenza Vaccines Formulated in a Nanoemulsion-Based Adjuvant
Authors: Hamouda Tarek , Sutcliffe Joyce A. , Ciotti Susan , Baker James R.
Published: May 2011

NB-1008 is a surfactant-stabilized soybean oil-in-water nanoemulsion (NE) adjuvant with influenza virus antigen incorporated into the NE by simple mixing. Intranasal administration of the antigen with NE adjuvant efficiently produces both mucosal and serum antibody responses as well as a robust cellular Th1 immune response. To demonstrate the adjuvant effect of the W
80
5EC NE, a killed commercial influenza vaccine for intramuscular administration (Fluzone or Fluvirin) was mixed with the W
80
5EC NE adjuvant and administered intranasally to naïve ferrets. After a single intranasal immunization, the adjuvanted influenza vaccine elicited elevated serum hemagglutination inhibition (HAI) geometric mean titers (GMTs) ranging from 196 to 905 for the three hemagglutinin (HA) antigens present in the vaccine, which are approximately 19- to 90-fold higher titers at 1/50 the standard intramuscular commercial nonadjuvanted influenza vaccine dose. Seroconversion rates of 67% to 100% were achieved against each of the three viral strains present. The adjuvanted nasal influenza vaccine also produced significant cross immunity to five other H3N2 influenza virus strains not present in the vaccine and produced sterile immunity after challenge with homologous live virus. No safety issues were observed in 249 ferrets receiving the adjuvanted influenza vaccine. These findings demonstrate the ability of W
80
5EC NE to adjuvant nasally administered influenza vaccine and provide a basis for studying the intranasal W
80
5EC-adjuvanted influenza vaccine in humans.
Induction of B Cell Responses upon Experimental Infection of Neonatal Calves with Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis
Authors: Stabel J. R. , Bannantine J. P. , Eda Shigetoshi , Robbe-Austerman S.
Published: May 2011

The objective of this study was to determine if experimental infection of neonatal calves withMycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosiswould invoke changes in the percentages of total B cells in the peripheral blood mononuclear cell population and of subpopulations of B cells as determined by CD5, CD25, and CD45RO markers during a 12-month period. Experimental infection groups included control (noninfected), oral (infected withM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisstrain K-10), oral/DXM (pretreatment with dexamethasone before oral inoculation), i.p. (intraperitoneal inoculation), and oral/M (oral inoculation with mucosal scrapings from a cow with clinical disease) groups. Over the course of the study, the percentages of total B cells in nonstimulated and antigen-stimulated cell cultures increased for oral and i.p. group calves, with the highest percentages noted at 3 and 6 months. Oral/M group calves had increased percentages of activated B cells, as determined by CD5dimand CD5brightmarkers, at 9 and 12 months. Experimental infection by all methods resulted in increased expression of CD25+and CD45RO+B cells early in the study, but the most significant results were observed at 12 months for oral/DXM and oral/M group calves. Immunoblot analyses with a whole-cell sonicate ofM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisdemonstrated the most reactivity with sera from i.p. group calves and the least reactivity with sera from oral group calves. Further evidence ofM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis-specific antibody responses in the i.p. group calves was demonstrated using the ethanol vortex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (EvELISA) method. In summary, an induction of B cell responses was noted after experimental infection withM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis, with differences in responses noted according to the method of experimental inoculation.
Echinocandin Susceptibility Testing of Candida Isolates Collected during a 1-Year Period in Sweden
Authors: Axner-Elings Marlene , Botero-Kleiven Silvia , Jensen Rasmus Hare , Arendrup Maiken Cavling
Published: May 2011

The susceptibilities of
Candida
isolates to the echinocandins anidulafungin, caspofungin, and micafungin were determined by using the recently revised CLSI breakpoints and Etest on 238 clinical bloodstream
Candida
isolates collected between September 2005 and August 2006. The isolates represent approximately 95% of all non
-albicans Candida
bloodstream infections and one-third of
Candida albicans
bloodstream infections during this 1-year period in Sweden. The collection included 81
C. albicans
, 81
C. glabrata
, 36
C. parapsilosis
, 14
C. dubliniensis
, 8
C. tropicalis
, 8
C. lusitaniae
, 5
C. krusei
, 2
C. guilliermondii
and 2
C. inconspicua
isolates as well as 1
C. pelliculosa
isolate. The MICs were largely consistent with the global epidemiology of bloodstream
Candida
isolates. All
C. albicans
and
C. glabrata
isolates were susceptible to all 3 echinocandins (MIC ≤ 0.016 μg/ml in all instances). Resistance (MIC ≥ 8 μg/ml) to anidulafungin alone was observed for 4 (11.1%)
C. parapsilosis
isolates and for 1/2
C. guilliermondii
isolates. Intermediate susceptibility to caspofungin alone was observed for 2/5
C. krusei
isolates. One of the eight
C. tropicalis
isolates was classified as being intermediately susceptible to micafungin (MIC, 0.5 μg/ml) and as being resistant to anidulafungin and caspofungin (MIC ≥ 1 μg/ml). This isolate harbored a heterozygous
FKS1
hot spot mutation (S80P) known to confer echinocandin resistance. This first study to apply the revised CLSI breakpoints for Etest endpoints showed that the breakpoints worked successfully in detecting an isolate with a hot spot mutation. Acquired echinocandin resistance is rare in Sweden. Echinocandin MICs against
C. parapsilosis
and
C. guilliermondii
were lowest for micafungin.
Sensitive and Specific Phenotypic Assay for Metallo-β-Lactamase Detection in Enterobacteria by Use of a Moxalactam Disk Supplemented with EDTA
Authors: Pluquet Emilie , Arlet Guillaume , Bingen Edouard , Drieux Laurence , Mammeri Hedi
Published: May 2011

Moxalactam is highly hydrolyzed by plasmid-mediated metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs), whereas it is poorly inactivated by serine-active carbapenemases. This study demonstrated that moxalactam resistance constituted an effective screen for MBL expression in enterobacteria, which could be confirmed, even in low-MBL-producing isolates, by a disk potentiation test using moxalactam and EDTA.
RNA versus DNA (NucliSENS EasyQ HIV-1 v1.2 versus Amplicor HIV-1 DNA Test v1.5) for Early Diagnosis of HIV-1 Infection in Infants in Senegal
Authors: Kébé K. , Ndiaye O. , Ndiaye H. Diop , Mengue P. Mbakob , Guindo P. M. M. , Diallo S. , Léye N. , Gueye S. B. , Diallo A. Gaye , Kane C. Touré , Mboup S.
Published: May 2011

The objective of this study was to compare the performance of the NucliSENS EasyQ HIV-1 v1.2 platform (bioMérieux, France) to the Amplicor HIV-1 DNA test v1.5 (Roche Molecular Systems, Switzerland) in detecting HIV-1 infection in infants using venipuncture-derived whole blood in tubes and dried blood spots. A total of 149 dried blood spots and 43 EDTA-anticoagulated peripheral blood samples were collected throughout Dakar and other areas in Senegal from infants and children aged 3 weeks to 24 months who were born to HIV-1-infected mothers. Samples were tested using the NucliSENS and Amplicor technologies. The NucliSENS and Amplicor results were 100% concordant using either EDTA-anticoagulated peripheral blood or dried blood spots. Compared to Amplicor, the sensitivity and specificity of the NucliSENS test were 100%. The NucliSENS EasyQ HIV-1 RNA assay performed as well as the Amplicor HIV-1 DNA test in detecting HIV-1 infection in infants. In addition, this platform can give an indication of the viral load baseline. The NucliSENS EasyQ platform is a good alternative for early infant diagnosis of HIV-1 infection.
Host-Based Ribavirin Resistance Influences Hepatitis C Virus Replication and Treatment Response
Authors: Ibarra Kristie D. , Jain Mamta K. , Pfeiffer Julie K.
Published: May 2011

Many individuals infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) develop a chronic infection, and of those who are treated with pegylated interferon and ribavirin (RBV), many do not respond. While the nucleoside analog RBV improves treatment outcome, and will likely be an important component of therapy with next-generation viral inhibitors, RBV's mechanism is controversial. Most of RBV's proposed mechanisms require RBV import into cells. Therefore, we explored whether host-based RBV resistance develops through reduced cellular uptake, akin to chemotherapy resistance in some cancers. We examined the effect of host-based RBV resistance on HCV replication in cultured hepatoma Huh7.5 liver cells and whether RBV resistance develops in HCV patients. When Huh7.5 cells were exposed to RBV, resistance developed through reduced RBV uptake via the ENT1 nucleoside transporter and antiviral efficacy was reduced. The uptake defect in RBV-resistant cells was specific to RBV, since transport of another ENT1 substrate, cytidine, was unaffected. Importantly, RBV uptake significantly declined in HCV patient peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) following 4 weeks of therapy. Furthermore, maintenance of RBV uptake correlated with rapid treatment response. Our results uncovered a novel form of antiviral drug resistance and suggest that host-based RBV resistance develops in HCV patients undergoing therapy and that maintenance of RBV uptake may contribute to rapid viral clearance.
Different Regions of HIV-1 Subtype CenvAre Associated with Placental Localization andIn UteroMother-to-Child Transmission
Authors: Kumar Surender B. , Handelman Samuel K. , Voronkin Igor , Mwapasa Victor , Janies Daniel , Rogerson Stephen J. , Meshnick Steven R. , Kwiek Jesse J.
Published: May 2011

HIV infections are initiated by a limited number of variants that diverge into a diverse quasispecies swarm. Duringin uteromother-to-child transmission (IU MTCT), transmitted viral variants must pass through multiple unique environments, and our previously published data suggest a nonstochastic model of transmission. As an alternative to a stochastic model of viral transmission, we hypothesize that viral selection in the placental environment influences the character of the viral quasispecies when HIV-1 is transmittedin utero. To test this hypothesis, we used single-template amplification to isolate HIV-1 envelope gene (env) sequences from both peripheral plasma and the placentas of eight nontransmitting (NT) and nine IU-transmitting participants. Statistically significant compartmentalization between peripheral and placental HIV-1envwas detected in one of the eight NT cases and six of the nine IU MTCT cases. In addition, viral sequences isolated from IU MTCT placental tissue showed variation inenvV1 loop lengths compared to matched maternal sequences, while NT placentalenvsequences did not. Finally, comparison ofenvsequences from NT and IU MTCT participants indicated statistically significant differences in Kyte-Doolittle hydropathy in the signal peptide, C2, V3, and C3 regions. Our working hypothesis is that the hydropathy differences in Env associated with IU MTCT alter viral cellular tropism or affinity, allowing HIV-1 to efficiently infect placentally localized cells.
Mechanism of Inhibition of Retrovirus Release from Cells by Interferon-Induced Gene ISG15
Authors: Kuang Zhizhou , Seo Eun Joo , Leis Jonathan
Published: May 2011

Budding of retroviruses from cell membranes requires ubiquitination of Gag and recruitment of cellular proteins involved in endosome sorting, including
e
ndosome
s
orting
c
omplex
r
equired for
t
ransport III (ESCRT-III) protein complex and
v
acuolar
p
rotein
s
orting 4 (VPS4) and its ATPase. In response to infection, a cellular mechanism has evolved that blocks virus replication early and late in the budding process through expression of interferon-stimulated gene 15 (ISG15), a dimer homologue of ubiquitin. Interferon treatment of DF-1 cells blocks avian sarcoma/leukosis virus release, demonstrating that this mechanism is functional under physiological conditions. The late block to release is caused in part by a loss in interaction between VPS4 and its coactivator protein LIP5, which is required to promote the formation of the ESCRT III-VPS4 double-hexamer complex to activate its ATPase. ISG15 is conjugated to two different LIP5-ESCRT-III-binding
ch
arged
m
ultivesicular body proteins, CHMP2A and CHMP5. Upon ISGylation of each, interaction with LIP5 is no longer detected. Two other ESCRT-III proteins, CHMP4B and CHMP6, are also conjugated to ISG15. ISGylation of CHMP2A, CHMP4B, and CHMP6 weakens their binding directly to VPS4, thereby facilitating the release of this protein from the membrane into the cytosol. The remaining budding complex fails to release particles from the cell membrane. Introducing a mutant of ISG15 into cells that cannot be conjugated to proteins prevents the ISG15-dependent mechanism from blocking virus release. CHMP5 is the primary switch to initiate the antiviral mechanism, because removal of CHMP5 from cells prevents ISGylation of CHMP2A and CHMP6.
Predicting the long-term performance of a geogrid-reinforced embankment on soft soil using two-dimensional finite element analysis
Authors: Karim M.R. , Manivannan G. , Gnanendran C.T. , Lo S-C.R.
Published: May 2011

The consolidation of the soft foundation soil of a geogrid-reinforced embankment, improved with prefabricated vertical drains (PVDs), is modelled in this paper using two-dimensional (2D) plane strain coupled finite element (FE) analysis to predict long-term multiple behaviour characteristics (e.g., settlement, lateral displacement, excess pore-water pressure response, geosynthetic strain) of the embankment. Two sets of analyses were carried out with the foundation soil being modelled using relatively simple elastic–viscoplastic (EVP) models. A nonlinear creep function was used in association with them. The input material parameters were determined from extensive laboratory testing or were taken from reliable sources except for the horizontal permeability, which was systematically back-estimated using oedometer test data and the first year of field settlement data. The results from both analyses were compared with the long-term (up to 6 years) field-monitoring data and were found to be in good agreement with the field measurements.
POST-TRAUMATIC COMBINED FLEXION OF THE THUMB, INDEX AND MIDDLE FINGER AFTER INTRINSIC MUSCLES RECONSTRUCTION OF THE HAND: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Lucchina Stefano , Nistor Alexandru , Fusetti Cesare
Published: May 2011

We report a case in which simultaneous flexion of the thumb, index and middle finger occurred 6 months after the surgical reconstruction of the adductor (AM) and first dorsal interosseous (IO) muscles. An anomalous connection in the form of tendon slip associated to fibrous adhesions between the flexor pollicis longus (FPL) tendon, flexor digitorum profundus indicis (FDPI) and middle finger (FDPM) tendons were found. Either ultrasound (US) examination or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were unable to detect the site of adhesion. Excision of the slip and radical tenosynoviectomy led to early functional recovery.