bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alarm calls modulate the spatial structure of a breeding owl community
Authors: Parejo Deseada , Avilés Jesús M. , Rodríguez Juan
Published: January 2012

Animals should continuously assess the threat of predation. Alarm calls inform on predation risk and are often used as cues to shape behavioural responses in birds and mammals. Hitherto, however, the ecological consequences of alarm calls in terms of organization of animal communities have been neglected. Here, we show experimentally that calls of a resident nocturnal raptor, the little owl
Athene noctua
, triggered a response in terms of breeding habitat selection and investment in current reproduction in conspecifics and heterospecifics. Little owls preferred to settle in territories where calls of conspecifics, irrespective of their type (i.e. alarm versus contact calls), were broadcasted, indicating that either conspecific attraction exists or calls are interpreted as foreign calls, eliciting settlement as a mode of defence against competitors. Also, we found that little owls seemed to invest more in current reproduction in safe territories as revealed by conspecific calls. Innovatively, we reported that a second owl species, the migratory scops owl
Otus scops
, preferred to breed in safe territories as indicated by little owls' calls. These results evidence that the emission of alarm calls may have, apart from well-known behavioural effects, ecological consequences in natural communities by inducing species-specific biases in breeding habitat selection. This study demonstrates a previously unsuspected informative role of avian alarm calls which may modulate the spatial structure of species within communities.
IGF2BP1 promotes cell migration by regulating MK5 and PTEN signaling
Authors: Stöhr Nadine , Köhn Marcel , Lederer Marcell , Glaß Markus , Reinke Claudia , Singer Robert H. , Hüttelmaier Stefan
Published: January 2012

In primary neurons, the oncofetal RNA-binding protein IGF2BP1 (IGF2 mRNA-binding protein 1) controls spatially restricted β-actin (ACTB) mRNA translation and modulates growth cone guidance. In cultured tumor-derived cells, IGF2BP1 was shown to regulate the formation of lamellipodia and invadopodia. However, how and via which target mRNAs IGF2BP1 controls the motility of tumor-derived cells has remained elusive. In this study, we reveal that IGF2BP1 promotes the velocity and directionality of tumor-derived cell migration by determining the cytoplasmic fate of two novel target mRNAs: MAPK4 and PTEN. Inhibition of MAPK4 mRNA translation by IGF2BP1 antagonizes MK5 activation and prevents phosphorylation of HSP27, which sequesters actin monomers available for F-actin polymerization. Consequently, HSP27–ACTB association is reduced, mobilizing cellular G-actin for polymerization in order to promote the velocity of cell migration. At the same time, stabilization of the PTEN mRNA by IGF2BP1 enhances PTEN expression and antagonizes PIP3-directed signaling. This enforces the directionality of cell migration in a RAC1-dependent manner by preventing additional lamellipodia from forming and sustaining cell polarization intrinsically. IGF2BP1 thus promotes the velocity and persistence of tumor cell migration by controlling the expression of signaling proteins. This fine-tunes and connects intracellular signaling networks in order to enhance actin dynamics and cell polarization.
The Functional Network of the Arabidopsis Plastoglobule Proteome Based on Quantitative Proteomics and Genome-Wide Coexpression Analysis
Authors: Lundquist Peter K. , Poliakov Anton , Bhuiyan Nazmul H. , Zybailov Boris , Sun Qi , van Wijk Klaas J.
Published: January 2012

Plastoglobules (PGs) in chloroplasts are thylakoid-associated monolayer lipoprotein particles containing prenyl and neutral lipids and several dozen proteins mostly with unknown functions. An integrated view of the role of the PG is lacking. Here, we better define the PG proteome and provide a conceptual framework for further studies. The PG proteome from Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) leaf chloroplasts was determined by mass spectrometry of isolated PGs and quantitative comparison with the proteomes of unfractionated leaves, thylakoids, and stroma. Scanning electron microscopy showed the purity and size distribution of the isolated PGs. Compared with previous PG proteome analyses, we excluded several proteins and identified six new PG proteins, including an M48 metallopeptidase and two Absence of bc1 complex (ABC1) atypical kinases, confirmed by immunoblotting. This refined PG proteome consisted of 30 proteins, including six ABC1 kinases and seven fibrillins together comprising more than 70% of the PG protein mass. Other fibrillins were located predominantly in the stroma or thylakoid and not in PGs; we discovered that this partitioning can be predicted by their isoelectric point and hydrophobicity. A genome-wide coexpression network for the PG genes was then constructed from mRNA expression data. This revealed a modular network with four distinct modules that each contained at least one ABC1K and/or fibrillin gene. Each module showed clear enrichment in specific functions, including chlorophyll degradation/senescence, isoprenoid biosynthesis, plastid proteolysis, and redox regulators and phosphoregulators of electron flow. We propose a new testable model for the PGs, in which sets of genes are associated with specific PG functions.
Notes on the occurrence of the tropical eel Anguilla bicolor bicolor in Peninsular Malaysia, Malaysia
Authors: Arai T. , Chino N. , Zulkifli S. Z. , Ismail A.
Published: January 2012

Previous studies indicated that a tropical freshwater eel Anguilla bicolor bicolor occurs in Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Indonesia and Australia, but an intensive survey has indicated an extended distribution range for the species into Peninsular Malaysia. Thus, A. b. bicolor is a native subspecies of Malaysia.
Connectivity of Caribbean coral populations: complementary insights from empirical and modelled gene flow
Authors: FOSTER NICOLA L. , PARIS CLAIRE B. , KOOL JOHNATHAN T. , BAUMS ILIANA B. , STEVENS JAMIE R. , SANCHEZ JUAN A. , BASTIDAS CAROLINA , AGUDELO CLAUDIA , BUSH PHILLIPPE , DAY OWEN , FERRARI RENATA , GONZALEZ PATRICIA , GORE SHANNON , GUPPY REIA , McCARTNEY MICHAEL A. , McCOY CROY , MENDES JUDITH , SRINIVASAN ASHWANTH , STEINER SASCHA , VERMEIJ MARK J. A. , WEIL ERNESTO , MUMBY PETER J.
Published: January 2012

Understanding patterns of connectivity among populations of marine organisms is essential for the development of realistic, spatially explicit models of population dynamics. Two approaches, empirical genetic patterns and oceanographic dispersal modelling, have been used to estimate levels of evolutionary connectivity among marine populations but rarely have their potentially complementary insights been combined. Here, a spatially realistic Lagrangian model of larval dispersal and a theoretical genetic model are integrated with the most extensive study of gene flow in a Caribbean marine organism. The 871 genets collected from 26 sites spread over the wider Caribbean subsampled 45.8% of the 1900 potential unique genets in the model. At a coarse scale, significant consensus between modelled estimates of genetic structure and empirical genetic data for populations of the reef‐building coral Montastraea annularis is observed. However, modelled and empirical data differ in their estimates of connectivity among northern Mesoamerican reefs indicating that processes other than dispersal may dominate here. Further, the geographic location and porosity of the previously described east–west barrier to gene flow in the Caribbean is refined. A multi‐prong approach, integrating genetic data and spatially realistic models of larval dispersal and genetic projection, provides complementary insights into the processes underpinning population connectivity in marine invertebrates on evolutionary timescales.
A marketed fermented dairy product containing Bifidobacterium lactis CNCM I‐2494 suppresses gut hypersensitivity and colonic barrier disruption induced by acute stress in rats
Authors: Agostini S. , Goubern M. , Tondereau V. , Salvador‐Cartier C. , Bezirard V. , Lévèque M. , Keränen H. , Theodorou V. , Bourdu‐Naturel S. , Goupil‐Feuillerat N. , Legrain‐Raspaud S. , Eutamene H.
Published: January 2012

Background  Fermented milk (FM) containing Bifidobacterium lactis CNCM I‐2494 and yogurt strains improves irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms in constipated IBS patients. In rats, stressful events exacerbate IBS symptoms and result in the alteration of gut sensitivity and permeability via epithelial cell cytoskeleton contraction. In a stress model, we aimed at evaluating the effect of B. lactis CNCM I‐2494 as a pure strain or contained in an FM product on visceral sensitivity and the impact of this FM on intestinal barrier integrity.

Methods  Visceral sensitivity was analyzed in rats subjected to partial restraint stress (PRS). Rats received during 15 days the B. lactis as a pure strain (106 to 1010 CFU mL−1), B. lactis in an FM product (108 CFU g−1, diluted or not), or a control product. Gut paracellular permeability, colonic occluding and Jam‐A proteins, and blood endotoxin levels were determined in rats receiving B. lactis in an FM product submitted or not to a PRS.

Key Results  The FM product showed a dose‐dependent inhibitory effect on stress‐induced visceral hypersensitivity. A similar antihyperalgesic effect was observed at 1010 CFU mL−1 of pure B. lactis administration. The FM product prevented the increase in intestinal permeability induced by PRS and restored occludin and JAM‐A expressions to control levels. The FM product abolished the increase concentration of blood endotoxin induced by PRS.

Conclusions & Inferences  This study illustrates that a probiotic food containing B. lactis CNCM I‐2494 strain reduces visceral hypersensitivity associated with acute stress by normalizing intestinal epithelial barrier via a synergistic interplay with the different probiotic strains and/or metabolites contained in this product.
Delayed gastric emptying rates and impaired antral motility in children fulfilling Rome III criteria for functional abdominal pain
Authors: Devanarayana N. M. , Rajindrajith S. , Rathnamalala N. , Samaraweera S. , Benninga M. A.
Published: January 2012

Background  Gastric sensorymotor dysfunctions have been implicated in the pathophysiology of some functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome. Therefore, we hypothesized that abnormal gastric emptying and impaired antral motility are possible underlying mechanisms of symptoms in children with functional abdominal pain (FAP).

Methods  Hundred and two children [37 (36.3%) males, 4–14 years, mean 7.8 years, SD 2.7 years] fulfilling Rome III criteria for FAP were recruited for this study. An age and sex compatible group of healthy children (n = 20) were selected as controls [8 (40%) males, 4–14 years, mean 8.4 years, SD 3.0 years]. Liquid gastric emptying rate (GER) and antral motility parameters (amplitude of antral contractions, frequency of antral contractions and antral motility index) were assessed using a previously reported ultrasound method.

Key Results  Average GER (42.1% vs 66.2% in controls), amplitude of antral contractions (56.5% vs 89%), frequency of contractions per 3 min (8.5 vs 9.3), and antral motility index (4.9 vs 8.3) were significantly lower in patients with FAP compared with controls (P < 0.01). Fasting antral area was higher in patients (1.4 vs 0.6, P < 0.0001). GER negatively correlated with the scores obtained for severity of abdominal pain (r = −0.29, P = 0.004).

Conclusions & Inferences  Gastric emptying rate and antral motility parameters were significantly impaired in patients with FAP and GER negatively correlated with symptom severity. These findings highlight the possible role of gastrointestinal motility abnormalities in the pathophysiology of childhood FAP.
Meeting the demand for meat?
Authors: Yates‐Doerr Emily
Published: January 2012

Renewed fears expressed by the United Nations about worldwide population growth have coincided with international concerns about the increased consumption of meat. This article, which draws upon long‐term fieldwork in the Guatemalan highlands and ongoing scientific research in the Netherlands, examines the ways in which global organizations are framing and responding to these concerns. Economists generally address the problem of increased meat consumption through the language of ‘demand’, while nutritionists adopt the rhetoric of nutritional ‘needs’. Not only do these approaches tend to present meat – which in practice takes many forms – as a single substance, but they also flatten the nuanced relationships that exist between the eater and the eaten, while overlooking the diverse contexts in which ‘meat’ eating takes place. This article addresses the question how anthropologists might approach the topic of increased meat consumption, suggesting that an analysis of the ways in which global actors approach this topic can help the discipline of anthropology to re‐engage with historic debates about the role of ‘the material’ and ‘the symbolic’ in relation to eating practices and to move these debates in new and productive directions.
A Capture–Recapture Approach to Estimation of Refugee Populations
Authors: Gold Steven J. , Wibert Wilma Novales , Bondartsova Vera , Biroscak Brian J. , Post Lori A.
Published: January 2012

The debate over immigration continues to be one of the most politically charged policy issues in the United States (US). Given the charged nature of this topic, it is vitally important to have reliable data on not only the number of US foreign nationals but also the characteristics of this extremely heterogeneous group – a population comprised not only of immigrants but also of refugees. There exist a small number of data sources for informing policy and practice at the national level. However, such data are often lacking for smaller geographical areas. This paper describes a recent effort to generate serviceable data on the immigrant and refugee population for a medium‐sized metropolitan area in the US.

The objectives of this research were twofold. Our first goal was to provide local stakeholders with information to assist them with resettling and obtaining funding for immigrants and refugees. The second aim was to develop better techniques for tabulating diverse refugees and immigrants in a medium‐sized community. By comparing and contrasting three data sources – that is, refugee services, public schools and a local health plan – we are able to generate estimates of the local refugee and immigrant population.

During the period from 2005 to 2007, we estimate the total number of immigrants and refugees in the community to be somewhere between 10,938 and 13,282. Although perhaps a bit on the high end due to methodological assumptions, these estimates seem plausible, based on previously cited figures for the region. While such estimates are valuable, a number of shortcomings related to the data prevent us from painting a more complete picture of these populations. We conclude this paper with a number of recommendations that will assist others in planning research designed to inform migration policy and practice in medium‐sized metropolitan areas.
Attitudes, beliefs and self‐reported competence about postoperative pain among physicians and nurses working on surgical wards
Authors: Rognstad May‐Karin , Fredheim Olav Magnus S. , Johannessen Tone E.B. , Kvarstein Gunnvald , Skauge Marta , Undall Eva , Rustøen Tone
Published: January 2012

Scand J Caring Sci; 2012; 26; 545–552

Attitudes, beliefs and self‐reported competence about postoperative pain among physicians and nurses working on surgical wards

Aims:  To investigate attitudes, beliefs and self‐reported competence with regard to pain management in nurses and physicians on surgical wards. Interprofessional differences between physicians and nurses were also examined.

Methods:  A total of 795 physicians and nurses from different surgical departments in Norway were invited to complete a questionnaire measuring attitudes, beliefs and self‐reported competence about postoperative pain.

Findings:  In total, 128 physicians and 407 nurses completed the questionnaire (response rate 68%). Of these, 77% of physicians and 57% of nurses reported more than 4 years’ work experience with postoperative pain. Most of the physicians (95%) and nurses (86%) reported that patients ‘often’ or ‘very often’ achieved satisfactory pain relief. Overall, 69% of the sample evaluated themselves as being highly competent or competent in treating nociceptive pain, while only 16% reported they were highly competent or competent in treating neuropathic pain. There were no statistically significant differences between the professions regarding their self‐reported competence in pain management, and nurses and physicians only differed on three out of 18 conditions regarding their appraisal of conditions related to postoperative pain management after controlling for years of experience. Only 20% of respondents were satisfied with the annual updates for staff about pain relief for patients with postoperative pain.

Conclusions:  Even though the majority of physicians and nurses described themselves as competent in management of nociceptive pain, and thought that patients often or very often achieved satisfactory pain relief, the respondents reported dissatisfaction with the annual updates in pain management and poor competence in treatment of neuropathic pain.
Prevalence of uncorrected refractive errors, presbyopia and spectacle coverage in marine fishing communities in South India: Rapid Assessment of Visual Impairment (RAVI) project
Authors: Marmamula Srinivas , Madala Sreenivas R , Rao Gullapalli N
Published: January 2012

Citation information: Marmamula S, Madala SR & Rao GN. Prevalence of uncorrected refractive errors, presbyopia and spectacle coverage in marine fishing communities in South India: Rapid Assessment of Visual Impairment (RAVI) project. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2012, 32, 149–155. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2012.00893.x

Purpose:  To investigate the prevalence of uncorrected refractive errors, presbyopia and spectacle coverage in subjects aged 40 years or more using a novel Rapid Assessment of Visual Impairment (RAVI) methodology.

Methods:  A population‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted using cluster random sampling to enumerate 1700 subjects from 34 clusters predominantly inhabited by marine fishing communities in the Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh, India. Unaided, aided and pinhole visual acuity (VA) was assessed using a Snellen chart at a distance of 6 m. Near vision was assessed using an N notation chart. Uncorrected refractive error was defined as presenting VA < 6/18 and improving to ≥6/18 with pinhole. Uncorrected presbyopia was defined as binocular near vision worse than N8 in subjects with binocular distance VA ≥ 6/18.

Results:  1560 subjects (response rate – 92%) were available for examination. Of these, 54.6% were female and 10.1% were ≥70 years of age. Refractive error was present in 250 individuals. It was uncorrected in 179 (unmet need) and corrected in 71 (met need) individuals. Among 1094 individuals with no distance visual impairment, presbyopia was present in 494 individuals. It was uncorrected in 439 (unmet need) and corrected in 55 individuals (met need). Spectacle coverage was 28.4% for refractive errors and 11.1% for presbyopia.

Conclusions:  There is a high unmet need for uncorrected refractive errors and presbyopia among marine fishing communities in the Prakasam district of South India. The data from this study can now be used as a baseline prior to the commencement of eye care services in this region.
Adjunctive testing for cervical cancer screening in low resource settings
Authors: Bhatla Neerja , Puri Kriti , Kriplani Alka , Iyer Venkateswaran K. , Mathur Sandeep R. , Mani Kalaivani , Pandey Ravindra M.
Published: January 2012

Background

Cervical cancer screening using cytology is expensive and requires repeat testing with loss to follow‐up for triage. Adjunctive testing using two tests in a parallel or sequential combination can improve diagnostic accuracy, decrease costs and minimise referral rates.

Aim

To evaluate the performance of visual inspection with acetic acid (VIA), human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA and cervical cytology in sequential and parallel combinations, to determine the optimum screening strategy.

Methods

A total of 548 symptomatic women presenting to a gynaecology clinic were screened using conventional cytology; HPV testing of self‐ and physician‐collected samples using HC2 assay; and VIA. All women underwent colposcopy with biopsy from all lesions as the reference standard. Test characteristics were calculated individually, and then applied jointly in parallel and sequential combinations.

Results

Biopsy‐proven CIN2+ was present in 40 (7.8%) women. The sensitivity and specificity, respectively, of the various tests were as follows – VIA 82.5, 66.9%, Pap (≥ASCUS) 77.5, 86.8%, HPV‐Physician (HPV(P)) 90.0, 91.5%, HPV‐Self (HPV(S)) 80.0, 88.1%. Among the adjunctive testing scenarios, sequential testing performed better than parallel. VIA followed by HPV test had the highest specificity (90.4%) and diagnostic accuracy (90.5%), comparable to HPV‐P followed by Pap.

Conclusions

Sequential testing combination of VIA and HPV, followed by colposcopy and directed biopsy for diagnosis, combines economic viability with high scientific fidelity. The high specificity and negative predictive value reduce referral and treatment rates, as well as number of visits required for diagnosis. HPV (P) followed by reflex Pap is a suitable option for high resource situations with access to liquid‐based cytology.
The Relationship Between Supervisee Stress, Coping Resources, the Working Alliance, and the Supervisory Working Alliance
Authors: Gnilka Philip B. , Chang Catherine Y. , Dew Brian J.
Published: January 2012

The authors examined the relationship of perceived stress, specific types of coping resources, the working alliance, and the supervisory working alliance among 232 counselor supervisees. The working alliance and the supervisory working alliance were negatively related to perceived stress and positively related to multiple coping resources. Two regression models for predicting the working alliance and supervisory working alliance from perceived stress and specific coping resources were significant. Implications for practice and research are discussed.
Metastatic endocervical adenocarcinoma in a western lowland gorilla (Gorilla g. gorilla) – no evidence of virus‐induced carcinogenesis
Authors: Olias P. , Schulz E. , Ehlers B. , Ochs A. , Mundhenk L. , Klopfleisch R.
Published: January 2012

Background  Cervical Cancer is the second most common cancer among women. Nevertheless, similar tumours have only been rarely described in Great Apes. This report characterizes the pathological and molecular features of a metastatic endocervical adenocarcinoma in a Western lowland gorilla (Gorilla g. gorilla).

Methods  Necropsy and histopathology was performed to identify the cause of the disease in an cachectic 50‐year‐old western lowland gorilla. Immunohistochemistry for Ki67, oestrogen receptor alpha and ERBB2 was performed to characterize the tumor. In addition, Pan‐herpesvirus and Pan‐papillomavirus PCR were used to identify a possible viral cause.

Results  The endoccervical carcinoma showed a severe metastatic spread to the lung, brain and bone and was herpesvirus and papillomavirus‐negative. Most tumor cells were ERBB2‐positive, 15% of tumor cells were Ki67‐positive and only few tumor cells had oestrogen receptor alpha expression.

Conclusions  Histopathologically and immunohistochemically, the tumour had striking similarities to human endocervicial adenocarcinomas of the common type. However, PCR analysis failed to identify herpes‐ or papillomaviral DNA in the tumor at the time of necropsy, thus leaving the question for cause of the disease open.
Influence of different types of mouthguards on strength and performance of collegiate athletes: a controlled‐randomized trial
Authors: Duddy Fergus A. , Weissman Jake , Lee Rich A. , Paranjpe Avina , Johnson James D. , Cohenca Nestor
Published: January 2012

Abstract – Background:  Prevention of traumatic dental injuries relies on the identification of etiologic factors and the use of protective devices during contact sports. Mouthguards are considered to be an effective and cost‐efficient device aimed at buffering the impacts or blows that might otherwise cause moderate to severe dental and maxillofacial injuries. Interestingly, besides their role in preventing injury, some authors claim that mouthguards can enhance athletic performance. Thus, the purpose of this controlled randomized trial was to evaluate and compare the effect of two different types of mouthguards on the athletic performance and strength of collegiate athletes.

Materials and methods:  Eighteen college athletes ranging from 19 to 23 years participated in this study. Devices tested in this study included an over‐the‐counter boil‐and‐bite mouthguard (O‐Flow™ Max Under Armour®) (UA) and a custom‐made mouthguard (CM). Physical tests were carefully selected by the head athletic trainer and aimed at evaluating the strength and performance. The following sequence was carried out on each test day: (i) 3‐stroke maximum power ergometer test, (ii) 1‐min ergometer test, and (iii) a 1600‐m run. A random assignment was developed to test all three experimental groups on each test day. Following the tests, each athlete completed a brief anonymous survey aimed at evaluating the athletes’ overall satisfaction with each type of mouthguard.

Results:  Custom‐made mouthguards had no detrimental effect on athletic strength and performance and were reported by the athletes as being comfortable and not causing difficulty in breathing. In contrast, boil‐and‐bite mouthguards did not perform as well and were reported as being uncomfortable and causing breathing difficulties.

Conclusions:  Based on the results of this study, the use of custom‐made mouthguards should be encouraged in contact sports as a protective measure, without concern for any negative effect on the athletic performance of the athletes.
The nonimpact of gestational age on neurodevelopmental outcome for ventilated survivors born at 23–28 weeks of gestation
Authors: Andrews Bree , Lagatta Joanne , Chu Alison , Plesha‐Troyke Susan , Schreiber Michael , Lantos John , Meadow William
Published: January 2012

Aim:  It has long been known that survival of preterm infants strongly depends upon birth weight and gestational age. This study addresses a different question – whether the gestational maturity improves neurodevelopmental outcomes for ventilated infants born at 23–28 weeks who survive to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) discharge.

Methods:  We performed a prospective cohort study of 199 ventilated infants born between 23 and 28 weeks of gestation. Neurodevelopmental impairment was determined using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐II at 24 months.

Results:  As expected, when considered as a ratio of all births, both survival and survival without neurodevelopmental impairment were strongly dependent on gestational age. However, the percentage of surviving infants who displayed neurodevelopmental impairment did not vary with gestational age for any level of neurodevelopmental impairment (MDI or PDI <50, <60, <70). Moreover, as a higher percentage of ventilated infants survived to NICU discharge at higher gestational ages, but the percentage of neurodevelopmental impairment in NICU survivors was unaffected by gestational age, the percentage of all ventilated births who survived with neurodevelopmental impairment rose – not fell – with increasing gestation age.

Conclusion:  For physicians, parents and policy‐makers whose primary concern is the presence of neurodevelopmental impairment in infants who survive the NICU, reliance on gestational age appears to be misplaced.
Hydraulic Displacement of Dense Nonaqueous Phase Liquids for Source Zone Stabilization
Authors: Alexandra Richards , Gerhard Jason I. , Kueper Bernard H.
Published: January 2012

Hydraulic displacement is a mass removal technology suitable for stabilization of a dense, nonaqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) source zone, where stabilization is defined as reducing DNAPL saturations and reducing the risk of future pool mobilization. High resolution three‐dimensional multiphase flow simulations incorporating a spatially correlated, heterogeneous porous medium illustrate that hydraulic displacement results in an increase in the amount of residual DNAPL present, which in turn results in increased solute concentrations in groundwater, an increase in the rate of DNAPL dissolution, and an increase in the solute mass flux. A higher percentage of DNAPL recovery is associated with higher initial DNAPL release volumes, lower density DNAPLs, more heterogeneous porous media, and increased drawdown of groundwater at extraction wells. The fact that higher rates of recovery are associated with more heterogeneous porous media stems from the fact that larger contrasts in permeability provide for a higher proportion of capillary barriers upon which DNAPL pooling and lateral migration can occur. Across all scenarios evaluated in this study, the ganglia‐to‐pool (GTP) ratio generally increased from approximately 0.1 to between approximately 0.3 and 0.7 depending on the type of DNAPL, the degree of heterogeneity, and the imposed hydraulic gradient. The volume of DNAPL recovered as a result of implementing hydraulic displacement ranged from between 9.4% and 45.2% of the initial release volume, with the largest percentage recovery associated with 1,1,1 trichloroethane, the least dense of the three DNAPLs considered.
Cost Optimization of DNAPL Remediation at Dover Air Force Base Site
Authors: Lee Jonghyun , Liu Xiaoyi , Kitanidis Peter K. , Kim Ungtae , Parker Jack , Bloom Aleisa , Lyon Robert
Published: January 2012

This study investigates stochastic optimization of dense nonaqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) remediation design at Dover Air Force Base Area 5 using emulsified vegetable oil (EVO) injection. The Stochastic Cost Optimization Toolkit (SCOToolkit) is used for the study, which couples semianalytical DNAPL source depletion and transport models with parameter estimation, error propagation, and stochastic optimization modules that can consider multiple sources and remediation strategies. Model parameters are calibrated to field data conditions on prior estimates of parameters and their uncertainty. Monte Carlo simulations are then performed to identify optimal remediation decisions that minimize the expected net present value (NPV) cleanup cost while maintaining concentrations at compliance wells under the maximum contaminant level (MCL). The results show that annual operating costs could be reduced by approximately 50% by implementing the identified optimal remediation strategy. We also show that recalibration and reoptimization after 50 years using additional monitoring data could lead to a further 60% reduction in annual operating cost increases the reliability of the proposed remediation actions.
The relationship between shear rate and flow‐mediated dilation is altered by acute exercise
Authors: Llewellyn T. L. , Chaffin M. E. , Berg K. E. , Meendering J. R.
Published: January 2012

Aim

Endothelial function is a predictor of cardiovascular health and is improved with exercise training. However, it is not clear how exercise acutely affects endothelial function. Previous studies present conflicting results, resulting from varied exercise protocols and ambiguity in data analysis after exercise. The aims of this study were to compare brachial artery endothelial function at rest and post‐exercise in and to compare the data expressed as a percent change and normalized to shear rate (SR).

Methods

Fifteen young, healthy subjects completed flow‐mediated dilation (FMD) tests at rest and immediately after a continuous 30‐min treadmill exercise session. Flow‐mediated dilation was calculated as percent change in diameter and also normalized for SR.

Results

Flow‐mediated dilation was reduced after exercise (8.9 ± 4.3 to 5.8 ± 3.9%, P < 0.05), but normalizing for SR nullified this difference (3.6 × 10−4 ± 1.8 × 10−4 to 2.7 × 10−4 ± 2.4 × 10−4%, P = 0.25). Baseline SR was significantly greater after exercise than at rest (224 ± 72 to 354 ± 158 s−1, P < 0.05). Baseline diameter, time to peak diameter, and SR area under the curve were not different between the two conditions. The relationship between SR and FMD was strong at rest (r = 0.82, P < 0.001), but weak post‐exercise (r = 0.16, P = 0.6).

Conclusion

The weak relationship in FMD and SR after exercise suggests that these data should not be normalized following aerobic exercise. Thus, endothelial function was attenuated after a continuous 30‐min aerobic exercise session.
Why do anti‐corruption laws fail in Central Eastern Europe? A target compliance perspective
Authors: Batory Agnes
Published: January 2012

The Central Eastern European member states of the European Union have introduced a host of anti‐corruption measures in the past two decades, yet corruption is still prevalent. Rather than asking what is wrong with the letter of the law, which has traditionally been the focus of analysis, this article identifies some of the reasons why those whose behavior the law seeks to change fail to act as expected. Drawing on theoretical insights from implementation studies and using Hungary as an illustrative example, the article finds that both incentives and normative judgments are skewed towards non‐compliance with anti‐bribery laws. The main policy implications are that anti‐corruption interventions should pay more attention to raising awareness among target groups, take existing social norms into account, and rely on positive incentives as well as, or rather than, increasing penalties.
Designing Service Level Contracts for Supply Chain Coordination
Authors: Sieke Marcel A. , Seifert Ralf W. , Thonemann Ulrich W.
Published: January 2012

Supply contracts are used to coordinate the activities of the supply chain partners. In many industries, service level‐based supply contracts are commonly used. Under such a contract, a company agrees to achieve a certain service level and to pay a financial penalty if it misses it. The service level used in our study refers to the fraction of a manufacturer's demand filled by the supplier. We analyze two types of service level‐based supply contracts that are designed by a manufacturer and offered to a supplier. The first type of contract is a flat penalty contract, under which the supplier pays a fixed penalty to the manufacturer in each period in which the contract service level is not achieved. The second type of contract is a unit penalty contract, under which a penalty is due for each unit delivered fewer than specified by the parameters of the contract. We show how the supplier responds to the contracts and how the contract parameters can be chosen, such that the supply chain is coordinated. We also derive structural results about optimal values of the contract parameters, provide numerical results, and connect our service level measures to traditional service level measures. The results of our analyses can be used by decision makers to design optimal service level contracts and to provide them with a solid foundation for contract negotiations.
Opérateur de Lefschetz sur les tours de Drinfeld et Lubin–Tate
Authors: Dat Jean-François
Published: January 2012

We define and study a Lefschetz operator on the equivariant cohomology complex of the Drinfeld and Lubin–Tate towers. Forℓ-adic coefficients we show how this operator induces a geometric realization of the Langlands correspondence composed with the Zelevinski involution for elliptic representations. Combined with our previous study of the monodromy operator, this suggests a possible extension of Arthur’s philosophy for unitary representations occurring in the intersection cohomology of Shimura varieties to the possibly non-unitary representations occurring in the cohomology of Rapoport–Zink spaces. However, our motivation for studying the Lefschetz operator comes from the hope that its geometric nature will enable us to realize themod-ℓ Langlands correspondencedue to Vignéras. We discuss this problem and propose a conjecture.
Genome Sequences of Six Pseudoalteromonas Strains Isolated from Arctic Sea Ice
Authors: Bian Fei , Xie Bin-Bin , Qin Qi-Long , Shu Yan-Li , Zhang Xi-Ying , Yu Yong , Chen Bo , Chen Xiu-Lan , Zhou Bai-Cheng , Zhang Yu-Zhong
Published: January 2012

Yu et al. (Polar Biol. 32:1539–1547, 2009) isolated 199
Pseudoalteromonas
strains from Arctic sea ice. We sequenced the genomes of six of these strains, which are affiliated to different
Pseudoalteromonas
species based on 16S rRNA gene sequences, facilitating the study of physiology and adaptation of Arctic sea ice
Pseudoalteromonas
strains.
Protocol: a realist review of user fee exemption policies for health services in Africa
Authors: Robert Emilie , Ridde Valéry , Marchal Bruno , Fournier Pierre
Published: January 2012

Background

Four years prior to the Millenium Development Goals (MDGs) deadline, low- and middle-income countries and international stakeholders are looking for evidence-based policies to improve access to healthcare for the most vulnerable populations. User fee exemption policies are one of the potential solutions. However, the evidence is disparate, and systematic reviews have failed to provide valuable lessons. The authors propose to produce an innovative synthesis of the available evidence on user fee exemption policies in Africa to feed the policy-making process.

Methods

The authors will carry out a realist review to answer the following research question: what are the outcomes of user fee exemption policies implemented in Africa? why do they produce such outcomes? and what contextual elements come into play? This type of review aims to understand how contextual elements influence the production of outcomes through the activation of specific mechanisms, in the form of context–mechanism–outcome configurations. The review will be conducted in five steps: (1) identifying with key stakeholders the mechanisms underlying user fee exemption policies to develop the analytical framework, (2) searching for and selecting primary data, (3) assessing the quality of evidence using the Mixed-Method Appraisal Tool, (4) extracting the data using the analytical framework and (5) synthesising the data in the form of context–mechanism–outcomes configurations. The output will be a middle-range theory specifying how user fee exemption policies work, for what populations and under what circumstances.

Ethics and dissemination

The two main target audiences are researchers who are looking for examples to implement a realist review, and policy-makers and international stakeholders looking for lessons learnt on user fee exemption. For the latter, a knowledge-sharing strategy involving local scientific and policy networks will be implemented. The study has been approved by the ethics committee of the CHUM Research Centre (CR-CHUM). It received funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. The funders will not have any role in study design; collection, management, analysis, and interpretation of data; writing of the report and the decision to submit the report for publication, including who will have ultimate authority over each of these activities.
Glucocorticoid-induced androgen inactivation by aldo-keto reductase 1C2 promotes adipogenesis in human preadipocytes
Authors: Veilleux Alain , Côté Julie-Anne , Blouin Karine , Nadeau Mélanie , Pelletier Mélissa , Marceau Picard , Laberge Philippe Y. , Luu-The Van , Tchernof André
Published: January 2012

Adipogenesis and lipid storage in human adipose tissue are inhibited by androgens such as DHT. Inactivation of DHT to 3α-diol is stimulated by glucocorticoids in human preadipocytes. We sought to characterize glucocorticoid-induced androgen inactivation in human preadipocytes and to establish its role in the antiadipogenic action of DHT. Subcutaneous and omental primary preadipocyte cultures were established from fat samples obtained in subjects undergoing abdominal surgeries. Inactivation of DHT to 3α/β-diol for 24 h was measured in dexamethasone- or vehicle-treated cells. Specific downregulation of aldo-keto reductase 1C (AKR1C) enzymes in human preadipocytes was achieved using RNA interference. In whole adipose tissue sample, cortisol production was positively correlated with androgen inactivation in both subcutaneous and omental adipose tissue ( P < 0.05). Maximal dexamethasone (1 μM) stimulation of DHT inactivation was higher in omental compared with subcutaneous fat from men as well as subcutaneous and omental fat from women ( P < 0.05). A significant positive correlation was observed between BMI and maximal dexamethasone-induced DHT inactivation rates in subcutaneous and omental adipose tissue of men and women ( r = 0.24, n = 26, P < 0.01). siRNA-induced downregulation of AKR1C2, but not AKR1C1 or AKR1C3, significantly reduced basal and glucocorticoid-induced androgen inactivation rates ( P < 0.05). The inhibitory action of DHT on preadipocyte differentiation was potentiated following AKR1C2 but not AKR1C1 or AKR1C3 downregulation. Specifically, lipid accumulation, G3PDH activity, and FABP4 mRNA expression in differentiated preadipocytes exposed to DHT were reduced further upon AKR1C2 siRNA transfection. We conclude that glucocorticoid-induced androgen inactivation is mediated by AKR1C2 and is particularly effective in omental preadipocytes of obese men. The interplay between glucocorticoids and AKR1C2-dependent androgen inactivation may locally modulate adipogenesis and lipid accumulation in a depot-specific manner.
25-Hydroxycholesterol-3-sulfate attenuates inflammatory response via PPARγ signaling in human THP-1 macrophages
Authors: Xu Leyuan , Shen Shanwei , Ma Yongjie , Kim Jin Koung , Rodriguez-Agudo Daniel , Heuman Douglas M. , Hylemon Phillip B. , Pandak William M. , Ren Shunlin
Published: January 2012

The nuclear receptor peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are important in regulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses in macrophages. Activation of PPARγ represses key inflammatory response gene expressions. Recently, we identified a new cholesterol metabolite, 25-hydroxycholesterol-3-sulfate (25HC3S), as a potent regulatory molecule of lipid metabolism. In this paper, we report the effect of 25HC3S and its precursor 25-hydroxycholesterol (25HC) on PPARγ activity and on inflammatory responses. Addition of 25HC3S to human macrophages markedly increased nuclear PPARγ and cytosol IκB and decreased nuclear NF-κB protein levels. PPARγ response element reporter gene assays showed that 25HC3S significantly increased luciferase activities. PPARγ competitor assay showed that the Ki for 25HC3S was ∼1 μM, similar to those of other known natural ligands. NF-κB-dependent promoter reporter gene assays showed that 25HC3S suppressed TNFα-induced luciferase activities only when cotransfected with pcDNAI-PPARγ plasmid. In addition, 25HC3S decreased LPS-induced expression and release of IL-1β. In the PPARγ-specific siRNA transfected macrophages or in the presence of PPARγ-specific antagonist, 25HC3S failed to increase IκB and to suppress TNFα and IL-1β expression. In contrast to 25HC3S, its precursor 25HC, a known liver X receptor ligand, decreased nuclear PPARγ and cytosol IκB and increased nuclear NF-κB protein levels. We conclude that 25HC3S acts in macrophages as a PPARγ ligand and suppresses inflammatory responses via the PPARγ/IκB/NF-κB signaling pathway.
Estrogenic modulation of inflammation-related genes in male rats following volume overload
Authors: McLarty Jennifer L. , Meléndez Giselle C. , Levick Scott P. , Bennett Shanté , Sabo-Attwood Tara , Brower Gregory L. , Janicki Joseph S.
Published: January 2012

Our laboratory has previously reported significant increases of the proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α in male hearts secondary to sustained volume overload. These elevated levels of TNF-α are accompanied by left ventricular (LV) dilatation and cardiac dysfunction. In contrast, estrogen has been shown to protect against this adverse cardiac remodeling in both female and male rats. The purpose of this study was to determine whether estrogen has an effect on inflammation-related genes that contribute to this estrogen-mediated cardioprotection. Myocardial volume overload was induced by aortocaval fistula in 8 wk old male Sprague-Dawley rats ( n = 30), and genes of interest were identified using an inflammatory PCR array in Sham, Fistula, and Fistula + Estrogen-treated (0.02 mg/kg per day beginning 2 wk prior to fistula) groups. A total of 55 inflammatory genes were modified (≥2-fold change) at 3 days postfistula. The number of inflammatory gene was reduced to 21 genes by estrogen treatment, whereas 13 genes were comparably modulated in both fistula groups. The most notable were TNF-α, which was downregulated by estrogen, and the TNF-α receptors, which were differentially regulated by estrogen. Specific genes related to arachidonic acid metabolism were downregulated by estrogen, including cyclooxygenase-1 and -2. Finally, gene expression for the β1-integrin cell adhesion subunit was significantly upregulated in the LV of estrogen-treated animals. Protein levels reflected the changes observed at the gene level. These data suggest that estrogen provides its cardioprotective effects, at least in part, via genomic modulation of numerous inflammation-related genes.
Some Mice Feature 5th Pharyngeal Arch Arteries and Double-Lumen Aortic Arch Malformations
Authors: Geyer Stefan H. , Weninger Wolfgang J.
Published: January 2012

A 5th pair of pharyngeal arch arteries (PAAs) has never been identified with certainty in mice. Murines in general are considered to not develop a 5th pair. If true, the significance of the mouse as a model for researching the genesis of malformations of the great intrathoracic arteries is limited. We aimed to investigate whether mouse embryos develop a 5th pair of PAAs and to identify malformations known to be caused by defective remodelling of the 5th PAAs. We employed the high-resolution episcopic microscopy method for creating digital volume data and three-dimensional (3D) computer models of the great intrathoracic arteries of 30 mouse embryos from days 12–12.5 post conception and 180 mouse fetuses from days 14.5 and 15.5 post conception. The 3D models of the fetuses were screened for the presence of a double-lumen aortic arch malformation. We identified such a malformation in 1 fetus. The 3D models of the embryos were analysed for the presence of 5th PAAs. Six of the 30 embryos (20%) showed a 5th PAA bilaterally, and an additional 9 (30%) showed a 5th PAA unilaterally. Our results prove that some mice do develop a 5th pair of PAAs. They also show that malformations which occur rarely in humans and result from defective remodelling of the left 5th PAA can be identified in mice as well. Thus, the mouse does represent an excellent model for researching the mechanisms driving PAA remodelling and the genesis of malformations of the great intrathoracic arteries.