bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Organic Acids to Inactivate Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes on Organic Fresh Apples and Lettuce
Authors: Park Sang‐Hyun , Choi Mi‐Ran , Park Jeong‐Woong , Park Ki‐Hwan , Chung Myung‐Sub , Ryu Sangryeol , Kang Dong‐Hyun
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  This study was undertaken to investigate the antimicrobial effect of organic acids against Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella Typhimurium, and Listeria monocytogenes on whole red organic apples and lettuce. Several studies have been conducted to evaluate organic acids as sanitizers. However, no studies have compared antimicrobial effects of various organic acids on organic fresh produce, including evaluation of color changes of produce. Apples and lettuce were inoculated with a cocktail of 3 strains each of 3 foodborne pathogens provided above and treated with 1% and 2% organic acids (propionic, acetic, lactic, malic, and citric acid) for 0, 0.5, 1, 5, and 10 min. With increasing treatment time and acid concentration, organic acid treatments showed significant reduction compared to the control treatment (distilled water), and differences in antimicrobial effects between organic acids were observed. After 10 min of treatment with 1% and 2% organic acids in apples, propionic (0.92 to 2.75 log reduction), acetic (0.52 to 2.78 log reduction), lactic (1.69 to >3.42 log reduction), malic (1.48 to >3.42 log reduction), and citric acid (1.52 to >3.42 log reduction) exhibited significant (P < 0.05) antibacterial effects against 3 foodborne pathogens compared to the control treatment. In lettuce, propionic (0.93 to 1.52 log reduction), acetic (1.13 to 1.74 log reduction), lactic (1.87 to 2.54 log reduction), malic (2.32 to 2.98 log reduction), and citric acid (1.85 to 2.86 log reduction) showed significant (P < 0.05) effects compared to the control treatment. Changes in sample color subjected to organic acids treatment were not significant during storage.

Practical Application:  It is suggested that organic acids have a potential as sanitizers for organic fresh produce. These data may help the organic produce industry provide safe fresh produce for consumers.
Supplementation of Alkaline Phytase (Ds11) in Whole‐Wheat Bread Reduces Phytate Content and Improves Mineral Solubility
Authors: Park Yun‐Jong , Park Jiwon , Park Ki‐Hwan , Oh Byung‐Chul , Auh Joong‐Hyuck
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  In this study, alkaline phytase was added to whole‐wheat bread and the phytate content and mineral profiles were compared to commercially available acidic phytase. At neutral pH, some phytate (approximately 20%) was degraded by endogenous phytase in wheat flour, while 40% of phytate was hydrolyzed by alkaline phytase DS11 and a 35% reduction was observed with acidic phytase. Most of the enzymatic activity occurred during the proofing stage, and the rate of reaction depended on pH. DS11 phytase effectively degraded the phytate level within a 30 min treatment at pH 7; however, at least 60 min was needed with acidic phytase to achieve the same hydrolysis level. Mineral profiles were also dramatically affected by the phytate reduction. The biggest increase was observed in Fe2+ by the phytase treatment. The Fe2+ content increased 10‐fold at pH 7 and 8‐fold at pH 5 with alkaline phytase DS11. Alkaline phytase DS11 was shown to be effective at phytate reduction in whole‐wheat bread preparation. Additionally, phytate degradation enhanced the mineral availability of bread.
Optimization of Hot Water Treatment for Removing Microbial Colonies on Fresh Blueberry Surface
Authors: Kim Tae Jo , Corbitt Melody P. , Silva Juan L. , Wang Dja Shin , Jung Yean‐Sung , Spencer Barbara
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Blueberries for the frozen market are washed but this process sometimes is not effective or further contaminates the berries. This study was designed to optimize conditions for hot water treatment (temperature, time, and antimicrobial concentration) to remove biofilm and decrease microbial load on blueberries. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image showed a well‐developed microbial biofilm on blueberries dipped in room temperature water. The biofilm consisted of yeast and bacterial cells attached to the berry surface in the form of microcolonies, which produced exopolymer substances between or upon the cells. Berry exposure to 75 and 90 °C showed little to no microorganisms on the blueberry surface; however, the sensory quality (wax/bloom) of berries at those temperatures was unacceptable. Response surface plots showed that increasing temperature was a significant factor on reduction of aerobic plate counts (APCs) and yeast/mold counts (YMCs) while adding Boxyl® did not have significant effect on APC. Overlaid contour plots showed that treatments of 65 to 70 °C for 10 to 15 s showed maximum reductions of 1.5 and 2.0 log CFU/g on APCs and YMCs, respectively; with acceptable level of bloom/wax score on fresh blueberries. This study showed that SEM, response surface, and overlaid contour plots proved successful in arriving at optima to reduce microbial counts while maintaining bloom/wax on the surface of the blueberries.

Practical Application:  Since chemical sanitizing treatments such as chlorine showed ineffectiveness to reduce microorganisms loaded on berry surface (Beuchat and others 2001, Sapers 2001), hot water treatment on fresh blueberries could maximize microbial reduction with acceptable quality of fresh blueberries.
Muscle characteristics in young Norwegian‐Swedish Coldblooded Trotters and associations with breeding index, body size and early training
Authors: REVOLD T. , IHLER C. F. , KARLSTRÖM K. , LARSEN S. , ESSÉN‐GUSTAVSSON B.
Published: May 2011

Reasons for performing study:The trotting speed of Norwegian‐Swedish Coldblooded Trotters (NSCTs) is, although inferior to Standardbred speeds, gradually increasing. This development is mainly attributed to breeding progresses. Characteristics of the middle gluteal muscle have recently been described in a small number of these horses but the actual spread in muscle parameters within the population is unknown.

Objectives:To describe the characteristics of the middle gluteal muscle and their naturally occurring variability in young NSCT horses and investigate possible association with body size, individual breeding index and early training.

Methods:Biopsies of the middle gluteal muscle of 144 NSCT horses born in 2005 were collected at age 17–24 months. The horses were randomly selected by stratified sampling with gender and paternal progeny as stratification factors. The muscle samples were analysed for fibre type composition, fibre type areas, capillary supply and the activity of the key metabolic enzymes citrate synthase, 3‐OH‐acyl‐CoA‐dehydrogenase and lactate dehydrogenase. Correlation analysis including muscle parameters and body size, individual breeding index and early training was performed.

Results:Large interindividual differences were identified in muscle characteristics. Male horses had higher percentages oftype IIAfibres and lower percentages oftype IIXfibres than age‐matched females. Fibre type areas followed the ordertype IIX>IIAX>IIA>I,while the capillary supply per fibre type area increased in the opposite order. No gender‐related differences were found in fibre type areas or capillary supply. Height was correlated to the relative area oftype Ifibres. Early training was associated with increased oxidative capacity and increased percentage oftype IIAfibres. The lowest breeding index was found in untrained horses.

Conclusions:Muscle characteristics differ among young NSCT horses, but the innate oxidative capacity seems to be lower than in Standardbreds of comparable age. Early training may influence on these parameters.
Aerodynamic Analysis of an Innovative Low Pressure Vane Placed in an s-Shape Duct
Authors: Lavagnoli Sergio , Yasa Tolga , Paniagua Guillermo , Castillon Lionel , Duni Simone
Published: May 2011

In this paper the aerodynamics of an innovative multisplitter low pressure (LP) stator downstream of a high pressure turbine stage is presented. The stator row, located inside a swan necked diffuser, is composed of 16 large structural vanes and 48 small airfoils. The experimental characterization of the steady and unsteady flow fields was carried out in a compression tube rig under engine representative conditions. The one-and-a-half turbine stage was tested at three operating regimes by varying the pressure ratio and the rotational speed. Time-averaged and time-accurate surface pressure measurements are used to investigate the aerodynamic performance of the stator and the complex interaction mechanisms with the high pressure (HP) turbine stage. Results show that the strut blade has a strong impact on the steady and unsteady flow fields of the small vanes depending on the vane circumferential position. The time-mean pressure distributions around the airfoils show that the strut influence is significant only in the leading edge region. At off-design condition (higher rotor speed) a wide separated region is present on the strut pressure side and it affects the flow field of the adjacent vanes. A complex behavior of the unsteady surface pressures was observed. Up to four pressure peaks are identified in the time-periodic signals. The frequency analysis also shows a complex structure. The spectrum distribution depends on the vane position. The contribution of the harmonics is often larger than the fundamental frequency. The forces acting on the LP stator vanes are calculated. The results show that higher forces act on the small vanes but largest fluctuations are experienced by the strut. The load on the whole stator decreases 30% as the turbine pressure ratio is reduced by approximately 35%.
Direct Antibody Access to the HIV-1 Membrane-Proximal External Region Positively Correlates with Neutralization Sensitivity
Authors: Chakrabarti B. K. , Walker L. M. , Guenaga J. F. , Ghobbeh A. , Poignard P. , Burton D. R. , Wyatt R. T.
Published: June 2011

On the prereceptor-engaged HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (Env) spike, epitope access by the membrane-proximal external region (MPER)-directed broadly neutralizing antibodies 2F5 and 4E10 remains unresolved. Data on binding to cell surface Env and entry data using primary isolates suggest inaccessibility of the 2F5 and 4E10 epitopes on the viral spike prior to receptor engagement, but trimer gel shift analysis and slow kinetics of shedding induced by 2F5 and 4E10 indicate otherwise. Therefore, it remains unclear if the epitopes themselves are formed in their antibody-bound state (or at least sampled) prior to receptor/coreceptor engagement or if receptor interactions both expose and form the MPER epitopes, presumably in the putative prefusion transitional intermediate. Here, we performed antibody-virus “washout experiments” using both lab-adapted and a panel of clade B primary isolates to analyze MPER accessibility. The neutralization activity of 2F5 and 4E10 against lab-adapted viruses and sensitive and moderately resistant viruses was largely unaffected by relatively rapid antibody-virus washing, suggesting direct interaction with the “static” spike. However, for more neutralization-resistant viruses, the 2F5 and 4E10 antibodies could neutralize only under the “no antibody-virus wash” conditions, implying that the MPER epitopes were not accessible prior to receptor engagement. Accessibility in the washout conditions could be precisely predicted by the relative resistance to neutralization in a standard neutralization format. These data are consistent with a model in which the local MPER antibody epitope conformations may be sampled on the native spike but are occluded to antibody by local steric or distal quaternary constraints adopted by highly resistant HIV-1 isolates.
MASS TRANSFER EFFECTS ON THE UNSTEADY FLOW OF UCM FLUID OVER A STRETCHING SHEET
Authors: HAYAT T. , AWAIS M. , SAJID M.
Published: June 2011

This paper looks at the mass transfer effects on the unsteady two-dimensional and magnetohydrodynamic flow of an upper-convected Maxwell fluid bounded by a stretching surface. Homotopy analysis method is used for the development of series solution of the arising nonlinear problem. Plots of velocity and concentration fields are displayed and discussed. The values of surface mass transfer and gradient of mass transfer are also tabulated.
HOW Ge DOPING AFFECTS THE SUPERCONDUCTING PROPERTIES OF (Cu, Tl)-1234 SUPERCONDUCTORS
Authors: IRFAN M. , KHAN NAWAZISH A.
Published: June 2011

Ge -doped ( Cu 0.5 Tl 0.5) Ba 2 Ca 3( Cu 4-y Ge y) O 12-δ (y = 0, 0.3, 0.6 and 0.9) superconductors have been synthesized at normal pressure through solid state reaction method. Ge has been doped in the CuO 2 planes constituting the superconducting block of these structures. In the as-prepared samples, a suppression of the critical temperature is observed with increased Ge concentration. The suppression of the critical temperature can be attributed to the decreased number of carriers due to their localization at Ge 4+ ions. Ge -doped post-annealed samples have shown enhancement in the critical temperature as well as magnitude of diamagnetism. Oxygen annealing seems to have replenished the charge carries through the process of hole doping in CuO 2/ GeO 2 planes, thereby bringing the carrier density closer to the optimum level. Oxygen related phonon modes have also been investigated. A shift in peak positions of the apical and planar oxygen related modes have been observed while modes associated with O δ oxygen atoms seem stable in both cases of Ge doping and oxygen annealing.
THE FIVE-HUNDRED-METER APERTURE SPHERICAL RADIO TELESCOPE (FAST) PROJECT
Authors: NAN RENDONG , LI DI , JIN CHENGJIN , WANG QIMING , ZHU LICHUN , ZHU WENBAI , ZHANG HAIYAN , YUE YOULING , QIAN LEI
Published: May 2011

Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope (FAST) is a Chinese mega-science project to build the largest single dish radio telescope in the world. Its innovative engineering concept and design pave a new road to realize a huge single dish in the most effective way. FAST also represents Chinese contribution in the international efforts to build the square kilometer array (SKA). Being the most sensitive single dish radio telescope, FAST will enable astronomers to jump-start many science goals, such as surveying the neutral hydrogen in the Milky Way and other galaxies, detecting faint pulsars, looking for the first shining stars, hearing the possible signals from other civilizations, etc.

The idea of sitting a large spherical dish in a karst depression is rooted in Arecibo telescope. FAST is an Arecibo-type antenna with three outstanding aspects: the karst depression used as the site, which is large to host the 500-meter telescope and deep to allow a zenith angle of 40 degrees; the active main reflector correcting for spherical aberration on the ground to achieve a full polarization and a wide band without involving complex feed systems; and the light-weight feed cabin driven by cables and servomechanism plus a parallel robot as a secondary adjustable system to move with high precision. The feasibility studies for FAST have been carried out for 14 years, supported by Chinese and world astronomical communities. Funding for FAST has been approved by the National Development and Reform Commission in July of 2007 with a capital budget ~ 700 million RMB. The project time is 5.5 years from the commencement of work in March of 2011 and the first light is expected to be in 2016.

This review intends to introduce the project of FAST with emphasis on the recent progress since 2006. In this paper, the subsystems of FAST are described in modest details followed by discussions of the fundamental science goals and examples of early science projects.
Acidic bile salts modulate the squamous epithelial barrier function by modulating tight junction proteins
Authors: Chen Xin , Oshima Tadayuki , Tomita Toshihiko , Fukui Hirokazu , Watari Jiro , Matsumoto Takayuki , Miwa Hiroto
Published: May 2011

Experimental models for esophageal epithelium in vitro either suffer from poor differentiation or complicated culture systems. An air-liquid interface system with normal human bronchial epithelial cells can serve as a model of esophageal-like squamous epithelial cell layers. Here, we explore the influence of bile acids on barrier function and tight junction (TJ) proteins. The cells were treated with taurocholic acid (TCA), glycocholic acid (GCA), or deoxycholic acid (DCA) at different pH values, or with pepsin. Barrier function was measured by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and the diffusion of paracellular tracers (permeability). The expression of TJ proteins, including claudin-1 and claudin-4, was examined by Western blotting of 1% Nonidet P-40-soluble and -insoluble fractions. TCA and GCA dose-dependently decreased TEER and increased paracellular permeability at pH 3 after 1 h. TCA (4 mM) or GCA (4 mM) did not change TEER and permeability at pH 7.4 or pH 4. The combination of TCA and GCA at pH 3 significantly decreased TEER and increased permeability at lower concentrations (2 mM). Pepsin (4 mg/ml, pH 3) did not have any effect on barrier function. DCA significantly decreased the TEER and increased permeability at pH 6, a weakly acidic condition. TCA (4 mM) and GCA (4 mM) significantly decreased the insoluble fractions of claudin-1 and claudin-4 at pH 3. In conclusion, acidic bile salts disrupted the squamous epithelial barrier function partly by modulating the amounts of claudin-1 and claudin-4. These results provide new insights for understanding the role of TJ proteins in esophagitis.
2′,3′-cAMP, 3′-AMP, and 2′-AMP inhibit human aortic and coronary vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation via A2B receptors
Authors: Jackson Edwin K. , Ren Jin , Gillespie Delbert G.
Published: May 2011

Rat vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) from renal microvessels metabolize 2′,3′-cAMP to 2′-AMP and 3′-AMP, and these AMPs are converted to adenosine that inhibits microvascular VSMC proliferation via A2B receptors. The goal of this study was to test whether this mechanism also exists in VSMCs from conduit arteries and whether it is similarly expressed in human vs. rat VSMCs. Incubation of rat and human aortic VSMCs with 2′,3′-cAMP concentration-dependently increased levels of 2′-AMP and 3′-AMP in the medium, with a similar absolute increase in 2′-AMP vs. 3′-AMP. In contrast, in human coronary VSMCs, 2′,3′-cAMP increased 2′-AMP levels yet had little effect on 3′-AMP levels. In all cell types, 2′,3′-cAMP increased levels of adenosine, but not 5′-AMP, and 2′,3′-AMP inhibited cell proliferation. Antagonism of A2B receptors (MRS-1754), but not A1 (1,3-dipropyl-8-cyclopentylxanthine), A2A (SCH-58261), or A3 (VUF-5574) receptors, attenuated the antiproliferative effects of 2′,3′-cAMP. In all cell types, 2′-AMP, 3′-AMP, and 5′-AMP increased adenosine levels, and inhibition of ecto-5′-nucleotidase blocked this effect of 5′-AMP but not that of 2′-AMP nor 3′-AMP. Also, 2′-AMP, 3′-AMP, and 5′-AMP, like 2′,3′-cAMP, exerted antiproliferative effects that were abolished by antagonism of A2B receptors with MRS-1754. In conclusion, VSMCs from conduit arteries metabolize 2′,3′-cAMP to AMPs, which are metabolized to adenosine. In rat and human aortic VSMCs, both 2′-AMP and 3′-AMP are involved in this process, whereas, in human coronary VSMCs, 2′,3′-cAMP is mainly converted to 2′-AMP. Because adenosine inhibits VSMC proliferation via A2B receptors, local vascular production of 2′,3′-cAMP may protect conduit arteries from atherosclerosis.
Absence of meal-induced insulin sensitization (AMIS) in aging rats is associated with cardiac dysfunction that is protected by antioxidants
Authors: Ming Zhi , Legare Dallas J. , Lautt W. Wayne
Published: May 2011

We have previously demonstrated that progressive development of absence of meal-induced insulin sensitization (AMIS) leads to postprandial hyperglycemia, compensatory hyperinsulinemia, resultant hyperlipidemia, increased oxidative stress, and obesity, progressing to syndrome X in aging rats. The present study tested the hypothesis that progressive development of AMIS in aging rats further resulted in deterioration in cardiac performance. Anesthetized male Sprague-Dawley rats were tested at 9, 26, and 52 wk to determine their dynamic response to insulin and cardiac function. Dynamic insulin sensitivity was determined before and after atropine to quantitate hepatic insulin sensitizing substance (HISS)-dependent and -independent insulin action. Cardiac performance was evaluated using a Millar pressure-volume conductance catheter system. AMIS developed with age, as demonstrated by significant decrease in HISS-dependent insulin action, and this syndrome was increased by sucrose supplementation and inhibited by the antioxidant treatment. Associated with progressive development of AMIS, aging rats showed impaired cardiac performance, including the reduction in cardiac index, heart rate, dP/d tmax, dP/d tmin, ejection fraction and decreased slope of left ventricular end-systolic pressure-volume relationship, and increased relaxation time constant of left ventricular pressure as well as increased left ventricular end-diastolic pressure. Total peripheral vascular resistance also increased with age. Sucrose supplementation and antioxidant treatment, respectively, potentiated and attenuated cardiac dysfunction associated with age. In addition, poor cardiac performance correlated closely with the development of AMIS. These results indicate that AMIS is the first metabolic defect that leads to homeostatic disturbances and dysfunctions, including cardiovascular diseases.
Echocardiographic detection of congestive heart failure in postinfarction rats
Authors: Martinez Paula F. , Okoshi Katashi , Zornoff Leonardo A. M. , Oliveira Silvio A. , Campos Dijon H. S. , Lima Aline R. R. , Damatto Ricardo L. , Cezar Marcelo D. M. , Bonomo Camila , Guizoni Daniele M. , Padovani Carlos R. , Cicogna Antonio C. , Okoshi Marina P.
Published: May 2011

In studies of congestive heart failure (CHF) treatment, it is essential to select animals with a similar degree of cardiac dysfunction. However, this is difficult to establish without hemodynamic evaluation in rat postinfarction-induced CHF. This study aimed to diagnose CHF in long-term follow-up postinfarction rats using only echocardiographic criteria through a J-tree cluster analysis and Fisher's linear discriminant function. Two sets of sham and infarcted rats were studied. The first was used to perform cluster analysis and the second to prospectively validate the results. Six months after inducing myocardial infarction (MI), rats were subjected to transthoracic echocardiography. Infarct size was measured by histological analysis. Six echocardiographic variables were used in the cluster analysis: left ventricular (LV) systolic dimension, LV diastolic dimension-to-body weight ratio, left atrial diameter-to-body weight ratio, LV posterior wall shortening velocity, E wave, and isovolumetric relaxation time. Cluster analysis joined the rats into one sham and two MI groups. One MI cluster had more severe anatomical and echocardiographic changes and was called MI with heart failure (MI/HF+, n = 24, infarct size: 42.7 ± 5.8%). The other had less severe changes and was called MI without heart failure (MI/HF−, n = 11, infarct size: 32.3 ± 9.9%; P < 0.001 vs. MI/HF+). Three rats with small infarct size (21.6 ± 2.2%) presenting mild cardiac alterations were misallocated in the sham group. Fisher's linear discriminant function was built using these groups and used to prospectively classify additional groups of sham-operated ( n = 20) and infarcted rats ( n = 57) using the same echocardiographic parameters. The discriminant function therefore detected CHF with 100% specificity and 80% sensitivity considering allocation in MI/HF+ and sham group, and 100% specificity and 58.8% sensitivity considering MI/HF+ and MI/HF− groups, taking into account pathological criteria of CHF diagnosis. Echocardiographic analysis can be used to accurately predict congestive heart failure in postinfarction rats.
Tetrodotoxin-, dihydropyridine-, and riluzole-resistant persistent inward current: novel sodium channels in rodent spinal neurons
Authors: Dai Yue , Jordan Larry M.
Published: June 2011

Recently, we reported the tetrodotoxin (TTX)- and dihydropyridine (DHP)-resistant (TDR) inward currents in neonatal mouse spinal neurons. In this study, we further characterized these currents in the presence of 1–5 μM TTX and 20–30 μM DHP (nifedipine, nimodipine, or isradipine). TDR inward currents were recorded by voltage ramp (persistent inward current, TDR-PIC) and step (TDR- Ip) protocols. TDR-PIC and TDR- Ip were found in 80.2% of recorded neurons (101/126) crossing laminae I to X from T12 to L6. TDR-PIC activated at −28.6 ± 13 mV with an amplitude of 80.6 ± 75 pA and time constant of 470.6 ± 240 ms ( n = 75). TDR- Ip had an amplitude of 151.2 ± 151 pA and a voltage threshold of −17.0 ± 9 mV ( n = 54) with a wide range of kinetics parameters. The half-maximal activation was −21.5 ± 8 mV (−37 to −12 mV, n = 29) with a time constant of 5.2 ± 2 ms (1.2–11.2 ms, n = 19), whereas the half-maximal inactivation was −26.9 ± 9 mV (−39 to −18 mV, n = 14) with a time constant of 1.4 ± 0.4 s (0.5–2.2 s, n = 19). TDR-PIC and TDR- Ip could be reduced by 60% in zero calcium and completely removed in zero sodium solutions, suggesting that they were mediated by sodium ions. Furthermore, the reversal potential of TDR- Ip was estimated as 56.6 ± 3 mV ( n = 10). TDR-PIC and TDR- Ip persisted in 1–205 μM TTX, 20–100 μM DHP, 3–30 μM riluzole, 50–300 μM flufenamic acid, and 2–30 mM intracellular BAPTA. They also persisted with T-, N-, P/Q-, and R-type calcium channel blockers. In conclusion, we demonstrated novel TTX-, DHP-, and riluzole-resistant sodium channels in neonatal rodent spinal neurons. The unique pharmacological and electrophysiological properties would allow these channels to play a functional role in spinal motor system.
Biosolids Effects in Chihuahuan Desert Rangelands: A Ten-Year Study
Authors: Wester David B. , Sosebee Ronald E. , Zartman Richard E. , Fish Ernest B. , Villalobos J. Carlos , Mata-Gonzalez Ricardo , Jurado Pedro , Moffet Corey A.
Published: June 2011

Arid and semiarid rangelands are suitable for responsible biosolids application. Topical application is critical to avoid soil and vegetation disturbance. Surface-applied biosolids have long-lasting effects in these ecosystems. We conducted a 10-year research program investigating effects of biosolids applied at rates from 0 to 90 dry Mg ha−1on soil water infiltration; runoff and leachate water quality; soil erosion; forage production and quality; seedling establishment; plant physiological responses; nitrogen dynamics; biosolids decomposition; and grazing animal behavior and management. Biosolids increased soil water infiltration and reduced erosion. Effects on soil water quality were observed only at the highest application rates. Biosolids increased soil nitrate-nitrogen. Biosolids increased forage production and improved forage quality. Biosolids increased leaf area of grasses; photosynthetic rates were not necessarily increased by biosolids. Biosolids effects on plant establishment are expected only under moderately favorable conditions. Over an 82-mo exposure period, total organic carbon, nitrogen, and total and available phosphorus decreased and inorganic matter increased. Grazing animals spent more time grazing, ruminating, and resting in biosolids-treated areas; positive effects on average daily gain were observed during periods of higher rainfall. Our results suggest that annual biosolids application rates of up to 18 Mg ha−1are appropriate for desert rangelands.
Suppression of Apoptosis by PIF1 Helicase in Human Tumor Cells
Authors: Gagou Mary E. , Ganesh Anil , Thompson Ruth , Phear Geraldine , Sanders Cyril , Meuth Mark
Published: May 2011

Defining the processes that sustain telomere maintenance is critical to our understanding of cancer and longevity. PIF1 is a nonprocessive 5′->3′ human DNA helicase that exhibits broad substrate specificity. In vitro studies have implicated PIF1 in maintaining telomeres and processing stalled DNA replication forks, but disruption of the murine Pif1 gene did not yield any apparent phenotype. In this study, we evaluated the function of the PIF1 gene in human cells by using siRNA knockdown strategies to gauge its role in the response to DNA replication stress. We found that PIF1 depletion reduced the survival of both p53-deficient and p53-proficient human tumor cells by triggering apoptosis. In contrast, nonmalignant cells were unaffected by PIF1 depletion. Apoptosis induction in tumor cells was augmented by cotreatment with replication inhibitors (thymidine, hydroxyurea, or gemcitabine). When sensitive PIF1-depleted cells were released from a thymidine-induced S-phase arrest, there remained a subpopulation of cells that failed to enter S-phase. This cell subpopulation displayed an increase in levels of cyclin E and p21, as well as a deficiency in S-phase checkpoint markers that were induced with thymidine in PIF1 expressing cells. Specifically, CHK1 activation was suppressed and we detected no consistent changes in ATM S1981 autophosphorylation, γH2AX induction, or RPA hyperphosphorylation. Death in PIF1-depleted cells was detected in late G1/early S-phase and was dependent on caspase-3 activity. Taken together, our findings suggest roles for PIF1 in S-phase entry and progression that are essential to protect human tumor cells from apoptosis. Cancer Res; 71(14); 4998–5008. ©2011 AACR.
Elevated Plasma Growth Differentiation Factor-15 Correlates with Lymph Node Metastases and Poor Survival in Endometrial Cancer
Authors: Staff Anne Cathrine , Trovik Jone , Zahl Eriksson Ane Gerda , Wik Elisabeth , Wollert Kai C. , Kempf Tibor , Salvesen Helga B.
Published: May 2011

Purpose: The study objective was to investigate and validate plasma growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) as a predictor of lymph node metastasis and a poor prognosis in primary endometrial cancer.

Experimental Design: Plasma samples from 510 women treated for endometrial cancer in a primary investigation cohort (n = 44) and a secondary validation cohort (n = 466) were analyzed for GDF-15. Plasma from healthy premenopausal (n = 20) and postmenopausal (n = 20) women, women with borderline (n = 43), benign (n = 144), and malignant ovarian tumors (n = 125) were used for comparison.

Results: Median plasma GDF-15 concentration for the endometrial cancer group was elevated (1,077 ng/L) as compared with pre- and postmenopausal controls (590 and 684 ng/L) and women with benign (591 ng/L) or borderline ovarian tumors (718 ng/L; all P < 0.001), but similar to the ovarian cancer group. In the large validation cohort of endometrial carcinomas, high plasma GDF-15 was significantly associated with International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage III/IV disease, nonendometrioid histology, high grade, older age, postmenopausal status, and lymph node metastases (all P ≤ 0.001). High GDF-15 was also an independent predictor of poor disease-specific and recurrence-free survival.

Conclusions: Based on findings indicated in a primary investigation set and confirmed in the large secondary validation set, we report for the first time plasma GDF-15 as a biomarker for endometrial cancer phenotype, including presence of lymph node metastasis and reduced survival. Its applicability as a predictor of metastatic nodes and in monitoring treatment of endometrial cancer needs to be further studied. Clin Cancer Res; 17(14); 4825–33. ©2011 AACR.
SRSF1 Regulates the Alternative Splicing of Caspase 9 Via A Novel Intronic Splicing Enhancer Affecting the Chemotherapeutic Sensitivity of Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Shultz Jacqueline C. , Goehe Rachel W. , Murudkar Charuta S. , Wijesinghe Dayanjan S. , Mayton Eric K. , Massiello Autumn , Hawkins Amy J. , Mukerjee Prabhat , Pinkerman Ryan L. , Park Margaret A. , Chalfant Charles E.
Published: May 2011

Increasing evidence points to the functional importance of alternative splice variations in cancer pathophysiology with the alternative pre-mRNA processing of caspase 9 as one example. In this study, we delve into the underlying molecular mechanisms that regulate the alternative splicing of caspase 9. Specifically, the pre-mRNA sequence of caspase 9 was analyzed for RNA cis-elements known to interact with SRSF1, a required enhancer for caspase 9 RNA splicing. This analysis revealed 13 possible RNA cis-elements for interaction with SRSF1 with mutagenesis of these RNA cis-elements identifying a strong intronic splicing enhancer located in intron 6 (C9-I6/ISE). SRSF1 specifically interacted with this sequence, which was required for SRSF1 to act as a splicing enhancer of the inclusion of the 4 exon cassette. To further determine the biological importance of this mechanism, we employed RNA oligonucleotides to redirect caspase 9 pre-mRNA splicing in favor of caspase 9b expression, which resulted in an increase in the IC50 of non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells to daunorubicin, cisplatinum, and paclitaxel. In contrast, downregulation of caspase 9b induced a decrease in the IC50 of these chemotherapeutic drugs. Finally, these studies showed that caspase 9 RNA splicing was a major mechanism for the synergistic effects of combination therapy with daunorubicin and erlotinib. Overall, we have identified a novel intronic splicing enhancer that regulates caspase 9 RNA splicing and specifically interacts with SRSF1. Furthermore, we showed that the alternative splicing of caspase 9 is an important molecular mechanism with therapeutic relevance to NSCLCs. Mol Cancer Res; 9(7); 889–900. ©2011 AACR.
Parallel Deterioration of Albuminuria, Arterial Stiffness and Left Ventricular Mass in Essential Hypertension: Integrating Target Organ Damage
Authors: Andrikou Eirini , Tsioufis Costas , Dimitriadis Kyriakos , Flessas Dimitrios , Chatzistamatiou Vagelis , Grassos Charalampos , Papavasiliou Maria , Papadopoulos Dimitris , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: June 2011

Background: Albuminuria, arterial stiffening and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) constitute target organ damage. We estimated whether increased urinary albumin excretion, assessed by albumin-to-creatine ratio (ACR), and carotid to femoral pulse wave velocity (c-f PWV) were accompanied by augmented left ventricular (LV) mass index (LVMI) in hypertension. Methods: In 428 non-diabetic untreated hypertensives (257 men, mean age = 52 years, office blood pressure (BP) = 146/93 mm Hg) the distributions of ACR and c-f PWV were split by the median (8 mg/g and 7.8 m/s, respectively). Results: Age, male sex, 24 h systolic BP, ACR and c-f PWV were the independent predictors of LVMI (R2 = 0.478, p < 0.0001). Among patients with low ACR (n = 198), those with high c-f PWV (n = 84) compared to those with low c-f PWV (n = 114) were characterized by increased LVMI (by 8.9 g/m2, p = 0.012) and prevalence of LVH (30 vs. 14%, p = 0.015). Similarly among patients with high ACR (n = 230), those with high c-f PWV (n = 123) compared to those with low c-f PWV (n = 107) exhibited heightened LVMI (by 13.6 g/m2, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Increased ACR in conjunction with pronounced arterial stiffness is accompanied by augmented LV mass and higher LVH rates. Furthermore, the interrelationships between albuminuria, c-f PWV and LVMI suggest parallel target organ damage progression.
Contingent Faculty as Teachers
Authors: Baldwin Roger G. , Wawrzynski Matthew R.
Published: May 2011

Contingent faculty (full-time and part-time) who are not eligible for tenure or permanent employment provide a large portion of the instruction in U.S. higher education institutions, especially at the undergraduate level. However, in spite of the important functions contingent faculty perform, we know relatively little about their teaching practices or their impact on the educational environment of colleges and universities. This article uses data from the 2004 National Study of Postsecondary Faculty (NSOPF-04) to determine if contingent faculty (full-time and part-time) and “permanent” (tenured and tenure-eligible) faculty differ in their use of subject-centered and learning-centered teaching strategies. Holland’s academic environments model was also used to examine the subject-centered and learning-centered teaching practices of permanent and contingent faculty within broad academic areas. Findings indicate that the teaching practices of part-time contingent faculty differ in important ways from their other faculty colleagues. In contrast, the teaching practices of full-time contingent faculty more closely parallel those of their tenured and tenure-eligible colleagues. Based on these findings, implications for policy, practice, and additional research on this growing segment of the U.S. professoriate are included.
Risk Factors for Running Away Among a General Population Sample of Males and Females
Authors: Tyler Kimberly A. , Hagewen Kellie J. , Melander Lisa A.
Published: May 2011

The present study examines risk factors for running away and homelessness among a sample of more than 7,000 currently housed youth using the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health (Add Health). Structural equation modeling results revealed that those with greater levels of family instability and those who ran away at Wave 2 were significantly more likely to run away and/or become homeless 5 years later at Wave 3. Family instability also had a significant indirect effect on running away and/or being homeless at Wave 3 through greater levels of problem behaviors and running away at Wave 2. Running away at Wave 1 was indirectly associated with running away and/or becoming homeless at Wave 3 through family instability, problem behavior, and Wave 2 running.
Developmental Trajectory of Sexual Risk Behaviors From Adolescence to Young Adulthood
Authors: Huang David Y. C. , Murphy Debra A. , Hser Yih-Ing
Published: May 2011

This study examined the trajectories of sexual risk behaviors among adolescents from ages 15 to 23 and factors associated with those trajectories. The sample was 5,419 adolescents from the 1997 National Longitudinal Survey of Youth. Using group-based trajectory modeling, five distinctive trajectory groups were identified. The High group had a high and increased risk trajectory over the observed ages. The Decreased group had a risk trajectory that accelerated before age 19, but decreased afterwards. The risk trajectories of the Increased-Early and Increased-Late groups were low at age 15 but increased significantly starting at ages 16 and 18 for the groups, respectively. Participants in the Low group remained at low risk over time. Sexual risk behaviors were also positively associated with alcohol use, marijuana use, and delinquency. Results highlight the need for intervention efforts to consider developmental timing of sexual risk behaviors and their associations with other problem behaviors.
Activation of Platelet Membrane Glycoprotein Induced by Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Li Yousheng , Li Zhenlei , Wan Meifang , Xia Xinyi , Wang Jian , Li Jieshou
Published: May 2011

Background: Long‐term parenteral nutrition (PN) is a standardized treatment in many patients who are unable to use their gastrointestinal tract to absorb nutrients and water. Catheter‐related thrombosis (CRT) is one of the most common complications of PN. Several factors predispose patients to CRT. The main objective of this study was to assess the platelet membrane glycoprotein (GP) activation and coagulopathy induced by PN. Methods: Fifteen patients with intestinal failure were given PN for 47.9 days (range, 30–92 days) and 15 oral‐fed healthy volunteers served as controls. Complete blood counts and coagulation and biochemical parameters were determined. The platelet surface GPs, P‐selectin and GPIIb/IIIa were measured by flow cytometry. Results: There was no significant difference between the control group and PN group in coagulation and biochemical parameters. Platelet P‐selectin expression of the PN group was significantly higher than that of the control group (3.43% ± 1.22% and 1.99% ± 0.58%, respectively; P < .01). There was no significant difference in GPIIb/IIIa expression between the 2 groups. Conclusions: Long‐term PN (>30 days) induced the activation of platelet membrane GPs, which may be a significant risk factor for the development of CRT in patients with intestinal failure who require PN.
Stability and Change in High School Grades
Authors: Guskey Thomas R.
Published: May 2011

This study investigated the stability of students’ grades in high school courses during the academic year. Records of over 8,000 high school students from five large southeastern high schools were analyzed to determine the relationship between the first achievement grade students were assigned during an academic term and their final course grades. Results showed that grades were remarkably stable, with correlations between first achievement grades and final course grades generally ranging between +.4 and +.7. Correlations were typically larger for 9th- and 10th-grade courses than 11th- and 12th-grade courses. Multiple regression results revealed that differences among departments (subject areas) were statistically significant, but differences among schools were not. Differences related to student gender, grade level, ethnicity, and poverty level also were statistically significant but modest in magnitude. The implications of such stability and its probable influence on student motivation are discussed.
Mission Mystique
Authors: Goodsell Charles T.
Published: May 2011

Despite discussion in the literature of “new governance,” the self-standing government agency continues to constitute the institutional center of American public administration. Drawing on his volume Mission Mystique, the author proposes that the book’s concept of mystique and its template of institution-strengthening characteristics be used to reaffirm this point, buttress agencies against defunding, and enable them better to oversee devolved activities.
What Christians Believe about Forgiveness
Authors: Williams Stephen N.
Published: May 2011

This essay constitutes a brief survey of what Christians believe about forgiveness. After describing what is stake and noting the connection between forgiveness and amendment of life, it considers two questions in particular. Firstly, is forgiveness conditional on repentance? Secondly, is forgiveness compatible with resentment? It concludes by giving priority to the question of truth when we consider the appropriateness of forgiveness.
Political Reconciliation, Forgiveness and Grace
Authors: Scarre Geoffrey
Published: May 2011

This essay argues that the overuse of the idiom of forgiveness has distorted our understanding of the nature and requirements of political reconciliation, and proposes its supplementation by a notion of grace. This is a mode of response to wrongs that is less hedged around by conventions and conditions, and grace complements forgiveness in contexts in which the latter is inappropriate; it is also more serviceable for maintaining inter-community harmony in the long term. Following a detailed analysis of grace in the political environment, the paper concludes by tracing a concept of grace in the Sermon on the Mount.
The Tiber river delta plain (central Italy): Coastal evolution and implications for the ancient Ostia Roman settlement
Authors: Bellotti P. , Calderoni G. , Di Rita F. , D’Orefice M. , D’Amico C. , Esu D. , Magri D. , Martinez M. Preite , Tortora P. , Valeri P.
Published: May 2011

Geomorphologic, stratigraphic, faunistic, palynological and carbon isotope analyses were carried out in the area of the Tiber river mouth. The results depict a complex palaeoenvironmental evolution in the area of the Roman town of Ostia, ascertain the changes of the Tiber river delta over the last 6000 years and support a re-interpretation of some archaeologic issues. The wave-dominated Tiber delta evolved through three distinct phases. In the first step (5000–2700 yr BP) a delta cusp was built at the river mouth, which was located north of the present outlet. Subsequently (2700–1900 BP), an abrupt southward migration of the river mouth determined the abandonment of the previous cusp and the progradation of a new one. The third step, which is still in progress, is marked by the appearance of a complex cusp made up of two distributary channels. The transition from the first to the second evolution phase occurred in the seventh century bc and was contemporary to the foundation of Ostia, as suggested by historical accounts. However, the oldest archaeological evidence of the town of Ostia dates to the fourth century bc, when human activity is clearly recorded also by pollen data. We suggest that the first human settlement (seventh century bc) consisted of ephemeral military posts, with the aim of controlling the strategic river mouth and establishing the Ostia saltworks. Only after the fourth century bc the coastal environment was stable enough for the foundation and development of the town of Ostia.
Paradigm Interplay for Theory Development: A Methodological Example With the Kulturstandard Method
Authors: Romani Laurence , Primecz Henriett , Topçu Katalin
Published: May 2011

Cross-cultural management research is done in both the positivist and the interpretive paradigms. Calls are repeatedly made to consider this diversity, thus asking for more multiparadigm research, which is both challenging and methodologically vague. This article proposes a clear method for a bi-paradigm study leading to theory development. Multiparadigm studies present challenges that are first explained and then addressed with the strategy of interplay. The authors assert that interplay is a paradigmatic conversation that respects and builds upon the connections and differences between paradigm’s components used by Kuhn to stress continuity and change during scientific revolutions. With the Kulturstandard method, the authors illustrate the feasibility of interplay between the positivist and the interpretive paradigms. Interplay is reached by first conducting analyses in their respective paradigms. Then, in light of each other, they reveal mutually enriching themes that lead to a shift of attention toward a venue of interplay. This venue is then explored to investigate its respectful consideration of the paradigms and how it contributes to theory. The authors conclude by underscoring the methodological contributions of this article to multiparadigm research.
Rethinking American Poverty
Authors: Rank Mark R.
Published: May 2011

Attributing poverty to individual failures cannot explain the mountainous gap between the rich and poor in this country. Instead, the author argues, Americans must realize that structural constraints cause there to be “winners” and “losers.” In the end, we all pay the price for poverty in the U.S.
Who Are ‘We the People’?
Authors: Braunstein Ruth
Published: May 2011

The Tea Party trumpets itself as a movement of the people. But who is included in “We the People”? Ruth Braunstein tries to answer.
Secrets of a Feminist Icon
Authors: Sharp Gwen , Wade Lisa
Published: May 2011

Rosie the Riveter wasn’t always a feminist icon. Her roots lie in inspiring Westinghouse workers toward the war effort, and it wasn’t until the 1950s and ‘60s that women’s rights movements reframed the way we see Rosie.