bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PURIFICATION AND PROPERTIES OF CRYSTALLINE HUMAN CERULOPLASMIN
Authors: Nakagawa Osamu
Published: May 2010

Crystalline human ceruloplasmin was prepared from a Cohn's fraction F‐IV‐1 of normal human pooled plasma, by procedures based on acetone fractionation and chromatography on DEAE‐sephadex A‐50.

Needle‐shaped crystals of the human ceruloplasmin showed a single component on ultracentrifugation, electrophoresis and immunoelectrophoresis and had a sedimentation constant of 7.04 S and an electrophoretic mobility of 5.2 × 10–5 cm2 volt‐1 sec‐1. Light scattering of the ceruloplasmin gave a molecular weight of 160,000. Absorption coefficient at 610 nm was E1%1 cm 0.66, at 280 nm, 14.7 and the ratio E610 nm/E280 nm, 0.045. This protein provided 0.31% copper and contained serine, aspartic acid and valine residues as an amino terminal amino acid and showed an oxidase activity of 62 arbitrary units.
AMINO ACIDS AND PEPTIDES
Authors: Ali Akhtar , Faesel Jürgen H. R. , Sarantakis Dimitrios , Stevenson David , Weinstein Boris
Published: May 2010

A preparation is described for the pentadecapeptide L‐seryl‐L‐aspartyl‐L‐asparaginyl‐L‐asparaginyl‐L‐glutamyl‐L‐glutaminylglycyl‐L‐lysyl‐L‐seryl‐L‐alanyl‐L‐glutamyl‐L‐glutaminylglycylglycyl‐L‐tyrosinamide, which possesses the structure attributed to scotophobin, a possible “memory code word”. The biological activity of this compound is one‐tenth of the natural product and the physical constants differ also. It is concluded that the proposed structure is in error, either in terms of sequence and/or in functionality.
Changes in the selection differential exerted on a marine snail during the ontogeny of a predatory shore crab
Authors: PAKES D. , BOULDING E. G.
Published: May 2010

Empirical estimates of selection gradients caused by predators are common, yet no one has quantified how these estimates vary with predator ontogeny. We used logistic regression to investigate how selection on gastropod shell thickness changed with predator size. Only small and medium purple shore crabs (Hemigrapsus nudus) exerted a linear selection gradient for increased shell‐thickness within a single population of the intertidal snail (Littorina subrotundata). The shape of the fitness function for shell thickness was confirmed to be linear for small and medium crabs but was humped for large male crabs, suggesting no directional selection. A second experiment using two prey species to amplify shell thickness differences established that the selection differential on adult snails decreased linearly as crab size increased. We observed differences in size distribution and sex ratios among three natural shore crab populations that may cause spatial and temporal variation in predator‐mediated selection on local snail populations.
The small‐conductance calcium‐activated potassium channel is a key modulator of firing and long‐term depression in the dorsal striatum
Authors: Woodward Hopf F. , Seif Taban , Mohamedi Maysha L. , Chen Billy T. , Bonci Antonello
Published: May 2010

The striatum is considered to be critical for the control of goal‐directed action, with the lateral dorsal striatum (latDS) being implicated in modulation of habits and the nucleus accumbens thought to represent a limbic–motor interface. Although medium spiny neurons from different striatal subregions exhibit many similar properties, differential firing and synaptic plasticity could contribute to the varied behavioral roles across subregions. Here, we examined the contribution of small‐conductance calcium‐activated potassium channels (SKs) to action potential generation and synaptic plasticity in adult rat latDS and nucleus accumbens shell (NAS) projection neurons in vitro. The SK‐selective antagonist apamin exerted a prominent effect on latDS firing, significantly decreasing the interspike interval. Furthermore, prolonged latDS depolarization increased the interspike interval and reduced firing, and this enhancement was reversed by apamin. In contrast, NAS neurons exhibited greater basal firing rates and less regulation of firing by SK inhibition and prolonged depolarization. LatDS neurons also had greater SK currents than NAS neurons under voltage‐clamp. Importantly, SK inhibition with apamin facilitated long‐term depression (LTD) induction in the latDS but not the NAS, without alterations in glutamate release. In addition, SK activation in the latDS prevented LTD induction. Greater SK function in the latDS than in the NAS was not secondary to differences in sodium or inwardly rectifying potassium channel function, and apamin enhancement of firing did not reflect indirect action through cholinergic interneurons. Thus, these data demonstrate that SKs are potent modulators of action potential generation and LTD in the dorsal striatum, and could represent a fundamental cellular mechanism through which habits are regulated.
Reduction of adaptive genetic diversity radically alters eco‐evolutionary community dynamics
Authors: Becks Lutz , Ellner Stephen P. , Jones Laura E. , Hairston Jr Nelson G.
Published: May 2010

Ecology Letters (2010) 13: 989–997

Adaptive variation in the traits determining ecological interactions can lead to evolution so rapid that ecological dynamics change course while in progress (i.e., ‘eco‐evolutionary dynamics’). However, little is known about how the qualitative properties of eco‐evolutionary dynamics (e.g., cycling, equilibrium, etc.) are affected by the amount of heritable variation present. Here, we show that a change in the range of variation in a heritable prey defense trait determines what dynamics are observed in an experimental predator–prey system. We combine modelling and laboratory experiments to show that initial defense trait variation determines whether populations exhibit eco‐evolutionary cycles in which heritable variation is maintained, or converge to an equilibrium at which the prey population becomes monomorphic. Our results show how small changes in the amount of adaptive genetic variance initially present can radically alter eco‐evolutionary dynamics, and can ultimately determine whether heritable variation is maintained or lost.
Unrecognized bladder perforation with mid‐urethral slings
Authors: Foley Charlotte , Patki Prasad , Boustead Greg
Published: May 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To present a series of women with late presentation of mid‐urethral synthetic slings perforating the bladder and their management, this is rare but can lead to significant morbidity with medico‐legal consequences.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the case notes of nine women with urinary symptoms referred to our unit for further investigation after synthetic mid‐urethral sling placement.

RESULTS

The women presented between 8 weeks and 18 months after initial sling placement. Eight patients underwent a tension‐free vaginal tape insertion via the retropubic route and one patient had an ‘outside‐in’ obturator sling with the I‐Stop device (CL Medical, Lyon, France). The frequencies of presenting symptoms were: dysuria in six; recurrent urinary tract infection in four; frequency and urgency in four and pelvic pain in two. Seven of the nine women developed bladder calculi on the exposed sling material, all of which were visible on plain X‐ray. In six women, perforations were present at more than one site; in three urethral perforation had occurred together with an anterolateral bladder injury and in the remaining three there was bilateral bladder perforation. Initial management included cystoscopy and cystolithopaxy followed by transurethral resection (TUR) of the visible prolene mesh into the detrusor muscle. One woman required two TURs to clear all the mesh. Two women required further open surgery to remove all of the remaining mesh, both for ongoing pelvic pain that resolved after revision surgery. All the women had resolution of symptoms but all had recurrent stress urinary incontinence after tape division/excision. We used a novel technique to remove intraurethral mesh using a nasal speculum urethrally and excising the tape under direct vision, where resection proved impossible due to poor endoscopic views, with significant risk of sphincter injury.

CONCLUSIONS

The possibility of unrecognized tape perforation or erosion must be considered in women with persistent urinary symptoms, infection or pain after any form of mid‐urethral sling procedure. Bladder stones almost invariably develop if the exposed mesh has been present for >3 months. Most patients can be managed with endoscopic resection to remove all intravesical tape. Cystoscopy should remain a mandatory procedure together with any form of mid‐urethral sling placement but does not prevent unrecognized perforations in inexperienced hands.
A 20‐year follow‐up of the mesh wallstent in the treatment of detrusor external sphincter dyssynergia in patients with spinal cord injury
Authors: Abdul‐Rahman Ahmad , Ismail Soran , Hamid Rizwan , Shah Julian
Published: May 2010

Study Type – Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To assess the long‐term (20 years) effectiveness of the UroLume wallstentTM (Pfizer Inc., UK) in the treatment of detrusor external sphincter dyssynergia (DESD) in patients with spinal cord injury (SCI).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twelve patients with quadriplegia secondary to SCI underwent external striated sphincter stenting with the UroLume wallstent in place of sphincterotomy for DESD ≈ 20 years ago. The mean (range) age was 41.8 (26–65) years. Eleven patients had cervical level injury whilst one had a thoracic injury. All the patients were shown to have high‐pressure neurogenic detrusor overactivity and DESD with incomplete emptying on preoperative video‐cystometrograms (VCMG).

RESULTS

Six of the 12 patients have now been followed‐up for a mean (range) of 20 (19–21) years. Of the remaining six, two were lost to follow‐up at 1 and 3 years, but both remained free of complications during that time. Two patients developed encrustation causing obstruction, requiring stent removal within 1 year of insertion. Another patient with an adequately functioning stent died 7 years after stent insertion from a chest infection. The twelfth patient developed bladder cancer 14 years after stent insertion and underwent cystectomy with urinary diversion. VCMG follow‐up of the six patients showed a significantly sustained reduction of maximum detrusor pressure and duration of detrusor contraction at the 20‐year follow‐up. Five of these six patients developed bladder neck dyssynergia of varying degrees as shown on VCMG within the first 9 years of follow‐up. All were successfully treated with bladder neck incision (BNI) where the last BNI needed was at 12 years. We did not encounter any problem with stent migration, urethral erosion, erectile dysfunction or autonomic dysreflexia.

CONCLUSION

Urethral stenting using the UroLume wallstent is effective in the management of DESD in patients with SCI and provides an acceptable long‐term (20‐year follow‐up) alternative to sphincterotomy. The failures manifest within the first few years and can be managed easily with stent removal without any significant problems. Bladder neck dyssynergia was the long‐term complication which was treated successfully with BNI. It has no significant interference with erectile function, being reversible, minimally invasive and has a shorter hospital stay.
The 1 year outcome of the transobturator retroluminal repositioning sling in the treatment of male stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Rehder Peter , Mitterberger Michael J. , Pichler Renate , Kerschbaumer Andrea , Glodny Bernhard
Published: May 2010

Study Type – Therapy (outcomes research) Level of Evidence 2c

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a transobturator retroluminal repositioning sling suspension in the treatment of male stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after prostate surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In 118 men with SUI after prostatic surgery, a transobturator retroluminal repositioning sling suspension was implanted. Patients were evaluated including: complete history and physical examination, 24‐h pad test, a questionnaire (International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire, Short‐Form), urodynamic evaluation and endoscopy. The surgical technique was described previously. The findings before and at 1 year after sling placement were compared.

RESULTS

At the 12‐month follow‐up, 73.7% of the men were cured, 16.9% were improved, and 9.3% were still incontinent. After sling placement the daily pad use decreased significantly (P < 0.001), while the ICIQ‐SF improved significantly (P < 0.01). The detrusor voiding pressure, postvoid residual urine volume and maximal flow rates remained unchanged, while the Valsalva leak‐point pressure improved significantly (P < 0.01). In 19.5% of the men, there was transient scrotal pain or perineal discomfort. In 5.1% of the men, postoperative urinary retention occurred but resolved spontaneously after a few weeks of catheter placement. In 1.7% of the men adductor pain was reported, which resolved spontaneously. There were no major complications.

CONCLUSION

The transobturator retroluminal repositioning sling suspension for the treatment of male SUI is effective and safe with a low complication rate after 1 year of follow‐up.
Investment and Control Decisions in Foreign Markets: Evidence from Service Industries
Authors: Pla‐Barber Jose , Sanchez‐Peinado Esther , Madhok Anoop
Published: May 2010

We empirically investigate the entry mode choice in the service sector. In contrast to current models, we propose a model for choice of entry mode that breaks down the decision into two levels of analysis: first, at the more macro level, the choice of the degree of commitment is influenced mainly by country‐related variables; second, at the more micro level, the choice of the degree of control is addressed by firm‐related variables. Based on a sample of 328 foreign market entries, our study contributes to the literature of entry mode in two ways: first, by showing the explanatory capacity of the hierarchical model in the analysis of entry mode choice in the service sector; and second, through identifying and analysing the moderating role of two important contingencies in this decision – capital intensity and degree of customization. Moreover, the study advances our knowledge of some of the particularities in the internationalization of service firms.
‘Mother's Boy’: David Cameron and Margaret Thatcher
Authors: Evans Stephen
Published: May 2010

It is argued here that David Cameron has been heavily influenced by the example that Margaret Thatcher set with regard to leadership style, approach and rhetoric. The influence that she has exerted upon him may have become more marked in recent times, in response to the economic downturn and debt crisis, which has allowed Cameron to be more openly Thatcherite in his language, but he has always tried to follow in at least some of her footsteps. This was because of the dominance of right-wing views in the parliamentary Conservative party, which it has been necessary for Cameron to appease in the interests of party unity, and because he shared Thatcher's scepticism towards the state, seeking to express it in the more voter-friendly concept of social responsibility.
Crisis Readiness in Turkey and the United States
Authors: Parnell John A. , Koseoglu Mehmet Ali , Spillan John E.
Published: May 2010

Crisis management seeks to minimize the impact that crisis events have on organizations. While the crisis management literature is replete with studies of large organizations in developed countries, little has been written on this subject concerning businesses in emerging nations. This exploratory study investigates the perceptions and experiences of Turkish managers in relation to crisis events. Crisis readiness in Turkey and the United States is compared and contrasted. The results indicate that a majority of these organizations do not have formal crisis management plans. Recommendations are offered and implications for management are presented.
What's the Problem? Local Officials' Conceptions of Weaknesses in their Municipalities' Crisis Management Capabilities
Authors: Nilsson Jerry
Published: May 2010

It is becoming increasingly common for local‐government officials (civil servants and political appointees) to take part in vulnerability analyses to assess their municipality's capacity to withstand various crises. The question of how such groups conceive of problems concerning their municipality's crisis management capabilities (CMC) is largely unexplored. The aim of this study is to analyse the conceptions that groups of civil servants and political appointees engaged in vulnerability analyses have of weaknesses in their organizations' CMC. The attempt is to identify themes in how problems are described, as well as to compare how often the problems may be associated with different elements that constitute an organization and the different crisis management processes an organization needs to be involved in to manage crises. Ten vulnerability analyses, conducted in seven municipalities, and in one case at a county level, are analysed. The results are discussed in terms of what they indicate concerning the understanding these officials had of the organizations' CMC.
Change‐related responses in the human auditory cortex: An MEG study
Authors: Yamashiro Koya , Inui Koji , Otsuru Naofumi , Kakigi Ryusuke
Published: May 2010

We recorded cortical activity in response to the onset, offset, and frequency change of a pure tone using magnetencephalograms (MEGs) to clarify the physiological significance of N1m relating to the detection of changes. Four interstimulus intervals (ISIs) (0.5, 1.5, 3, and 6 s) were used for each of the three auditory events. Results showed that (i) all three auditory events elicited N1m with a similar topography and similar temporal profile, (ii) the source of N1m was located in the superior temporal gyrus (STG) for all events under all ISI conditions, (iii) the amplitude of the STG activity as a function of the duration of the steady state preceding the change was similar among the three events, and (iv) there was a significant positive correlation in amplitude between on‐N1m and off‐N1m and between on‐N1m and change‐N1m. These results suggested that N1m for the three events has a similar physiological significance relating to the detection of changes.
Electrophysiological correlates of language switching in second language learners
Authors: Van Der Meij Maartje , Cuetos Fernando , Carreiras Manuel , Barber Horacio A.
Published: May 2010

This study analyzed the electrophysiological correlates of language switching in second language learners. Participants were native Spanish speakers classified in two groups according to English proficiency (high and low). Event‐related potentials (ERPs) were recorded while they read English sentences, half of which contained an adjective in Spanish in the middle of the sentence. The ERP results show the time‐course of language switch processing for both groups: an initial detection of the switch driven by language‐specific orthography (left‐occipital N250) followed by costs at the level of the lexico‐semantic system (N400), and finally a late updating or reanalysis process (LPC). In the high proficiency group, effects in the N400 time window extended to left anterior electrodes and were followed by larger LPC amplitudes at posterior sites. These differences suggest that proficiency modulates the different processes triggered by language switches.
Adaptive immune regulation of glial homeostasis as an immunization strategy for neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Kosloski Lisa M. , Ha Duy M. , Hutter Jessica A. L. , Stone David K. , Pichler Michael R. , Reynolds Ashley D. , Gendelman Howard E. , Mosley R. Lee
Published: May 2010

J. Neurochem.(2010)114, 1261–1276.

Neurodegenerative diseases, notably Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, are amongst the most devastating disorders afflicting the elderly. Currently, no curative treatments or treatments that interdict disease progression exist. Over the past decade, immunization strategies have been proposed to combat disease progression. Such strategies induce humoral immune responses against misfolded protein aggregates to facilitate their clearance. Robust adaptive immunity against misfolded proteins, however, accelerates disease progression, precipitated by induced effector T cell responses that lead to encephalitis and neuronal death. Since then, mechanisms that attenuate such adaptive neurotoxic immune responses have been sought. We propose that shifting the balance between effector and regulatory T cell activity can attenuate neurotoxic inflammatory events. This review summarizes advances in immune regulation to achieve a homeostatic glial response for therapeutic gain. Promising new ways to optimize immunization schemes and measure their clinical efficacy are also discussed.
Robust anti‐arrhythmic efficacy of verapamil and flunarizine against dofetilide‐induced TdP arrhythmias is based upon a shared and a different mode of action
Authors: Oros A , Houtman MJ , Neco P , Gomez AM , Rajamani S , Oosterhoff P , Attevelt NJ , Beekman JD , Van Der Heyden MAG , Ver Donck L , Belardinelli L , Richard S , Antoons G , Vos MA ,   for the CONTICA investigators
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEThe high predisposition to Torsade de Pointes (TdP) in dogs with chronic AV‐block (CAVB) is well documented. The anti‐arrhythmic efficacy and mode of action of Ca2+channel antagonists, flunarizine and verapamil against TdP were investigated.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHMongrel dogs with CAVB were selected based on the inducibility of TdP with dofetilide. The effects of flunarizine and verapamil were assessed after TdP and in different experiments to prevent dofetilide‐induced TdP. Electrocardiogram and ventricular monophasic action potentials were recorded. Electrophysiological parameters and short‐term variability of repolarization (STV) were determined.In vitro, flunarizine and verapamil were added to determine their effect on (i) dofetilide‐induced early after depolarizations (EADs) in canine ventricular myocytes (VM); (ii) diastolic Ca2+sparks in RyR2R4496+/+mouse myocytes; and (iii) peak and lateINain SCN5A‐HEK 293 cells.

KEY RESULTSDofetilide increased STV prior to TdP and in VM prior to EADs. Both flunarizine and verapamil completely suppressed TdP and reversed STV to baseline values. Complete prevention of TdP was achieved with both drugs, accompanied by the prevention of an increase in STV. Suppression of EADs was confirmed after flunarizine. Only flunarizine blocked late INa. Ca2+sparks were reduced with verapamil.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSRobust anti‐arrhythmic efficacy was seen with both Ca2+channel antagonists. Their divergent electrophysiological actions may be related to different additional effects of the two drugs.
Cooperative role of tumour necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β and neutrophils in a novel behavioural model that concomitantly demonstrates articular inflammation and hypernociception in mice
Authors: Sachs Daniela , Coelho Fernanda M , Costa Vívian V , Lopes Fernando , Pinho Vanessa , Amaral Flávio A , Silva Tarcília A , Teixeira Antônio L , Souza Daniele G , Teixeira Mauro M
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Chronic joint inflammation and pain are the hallmarks of disease in patients with inflammatory arthritis, notably rheumatoid arthritis. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relative contribution of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β and neutrophil influx for joint inflammation and nociception in a novel murine model of antigen‐induced arthritis (AIA).

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH AIA was induced by administration of antigen into knee joint of previously immunized mice. Neutrophil accumulation was determined by counting neutrophils in the joints and assessing myeloperoxidase activity in tissues surrounding the joints. TNF‐α, IL‐1β and CXCL‐1 were measured by elisa. Mechanical hypernociception was assessed in parallel, using an electronic pressure meter.

KEY RESULTS Hypernociception was dependent on antigen dose and the time after its administration; it was prevented by treatment with morphine and associated with neutrophil infiltration and local production of TNF‐α, IL‐1β and CXCL‐1. Administration of a chimeric monoclonal antibody to TNF‐α (infliximab) or IL‐1receptor antagonist prevented neutrophil influx and hypernociception, and this was comparable to the effects of dexamethasone. Treatment with fucoidin (a leucocyte adhesion inhibitor) greatly suppressed neutrophil influx and local production of TNF‐α and IL‐1β, and hypernociception.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS In conclusion, the present study describes a new model that allows for the concomitant evaluation of articular hypernociception and inflammation. Using this system, we demonstrated that a positive feedback loop involving neutrophil influx and the pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α and IL‐1β is necessary for articular hypernociception after antigen challenge of immunized mice.
α1‐Adrenoceptor‐mediated depletion of phosphatidylinositol 4, 5‐bisphosphate inhibits activation of volume‐regulated anion channels in mouse ventricular myocytes
Authors: Ichishima K , Yamamoto S , Iwamoto T , Ehara T
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSEVolume‐regulated anion channels (VRACs) play an important role in cell‐volume regulation. α1‐Adrenoceptor stimulation by phenylephrine (PE) suppressed the hypotonic activation of VRAC current in mouse ventricular cells and regulatory volume decrease (RVD) was also absent in PE‐treated cells. We examined whether the effects of α1‐adrenoceptor stimuli on VRAC current were modulated by phosphatidylinositol signalling.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACHWhole‐cell patch‐clamp method was used to record the hypotonicity‐induced VRAC current in mouse ventricular cells. RVD was analyzed by videomicroscopic measurement of cell images.

KEY RESULTSThe attenuation of VRAC current by PE was suppressed by α1A‐adrenoceptor antagonists (prazosin and WB‐4101), anti‐Gqprotein antibody and a specific phosphoinositide‐specific phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor (U‐73122), but not by antagonists for α1B‐, α1D‐ or β‐adrenoceptor, or protein kinase C inhibitors. The inhibition of VRAC by PE was antagonized by intracellular excess phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2), while intracellular anti‐PIP2antibody (PIP2Ab) inhibited the activation of VRAC currents. When cells were loaded with phosphatidylinositol 3,4,5‐trisphosphate (PIP3) with or without PIP2Ab, PE little affected the VRAC current. Extracellularm‐3M3FBS (an activator of PLC) suppressed VRAC in the absence of PE, and this effect was reversed by intracellular excess PIP2.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONSOur results indicate that the stimulation of α1A‐adrenoceptors by PE inhibited the activation of cardiac VRAC current via PIP3depletion brought about by PLC‐dependent reduction of membrane PIP2level.
Differential effects of Kv11.1 activators on Kv11.1a, Kv11.1b and Kv11.1a/Kv11.1b channels
Authors: Larsen AP , Bentzen BH , Grunnet M
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Kv11.1 channels are involved in regulating cellular excitability in various tissues including brain, heart and smooth muscle. In these tissues, at least two isoforms, Kv11.1a and Kv11.1b, with different kinetics, are expressed. Kv11.1 activators are potential therapeutic agents, but their effects have only been tested on the Kv11.1a isoform. In this study, the effects of two different Kv11.1 activators, NS1643 and RPR260243, were characterized on Kv11.1a and Kv11.1b channels.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Kv11.1a and Kv11.1b channels were expressed in Xenopus laevis oocytes, and currents were measured using two‐electrode voltage clamp. I/V curves and channel kinetics were measured before and after application of 30 µM NS1643 or 10 µM RPR260243.

KEY RESULTS NS1643 increased steady‐state currents through Kv11.1b several fold more than through Kv11.1a channels, without affecting EC50 values. NS1643 increased activation rates and decreased rates of inactivation, recovery from inactivation and deactivation for both channels. Except for activation, where effect of NS1643 was comparable, relative changes were greater for Kv11.1b than for Kv11.1a. RPR260243 increased steady‐state currents only through Kv11.1a channels, but slowed the process of deactivation for both channels primarily by decreasing time constant of slow deactivation. This effect was greater on Kv11.1b than on Kv11.1a. Effects of both compounds on heteromeric Kv11.1a/Kv11.1b channels were similar to those on Kv11.1a.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Both NS1643 and RPR260243 displayed differential effects on Kv11.1a and Kv11.1b channels, the effects being relatively more pronounced on Kv11.1b channels. This affirms the importance of testing the effect of Kv11.1 activators on different channel isoforms.
Attention‐Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Confounds Nicotine Withdrawal Self‐Report in Adolescent Smokers
Authors: Gray Kevin M. , Baker Nathaniel L. , Carpenter Matthew J. , Lewis A. Lee , Upadhyaya Himanshu P.
Published: May 2010

Individuals with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely than those without ADHD to initiate smoking and develop nicotine dependence. Recent research indicates that adults with ADHD experience more severe nicotine withdrawal symptoms than those without ADHD. However, little is known about nicotine withdrawal in adolescent smokers with history of ADHD. Among a sample of 134 nicotine‐dependent adolescents entering a smoking cessation research study, participants completed the Minnesota Nicotine Withdrawal Scale (MNWS) and lifetime diagnostic assessment for ADHD during the baseline visit. Responses on individual items and MNWS total score were compared between participants with and without history of ADHD. In addition, correlations between MNWS responses and current ADHD symptoms were investigated among participants with history of ADHD. Forty‐eight participants (36%) met lifetime ADHD criteria. Adolescent smokers with history of ADHD scored significantly higher on MNWS than those without history of ADHD. Among participants with history of ADHD, responses on the MNWS difficulty concentrating, restlessness/impatience, and anxiety/nervousness items each correlated positively with several current ADHD symptoms. Treatment‐seeking adolescent smokers with history of ADHD are more likely to endorse nicotine withdrawal symptoms than those without history of ADHD. However, it does not appear that the symptoms reported in this sample represent a valid “withdrawal syndrome,” particularly because these smokers had not yet formally attempted to quit. Rather, the data likely reflect common features between ADHD and nicotine withdrawal. Smoking research, particularly among adolescents in whom ADHD is so common, should carefully consider the complex issue of comorbid ADHD and nicotine dependence. (Am J Addict 2010;00:1–7)
Patients Supported by Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and Acute Dialysis: Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation Score in Predicting Hospital Mortality
Authors: Wu Vin‐Cent , Tsai Hung‐Bin , Yeh Yu‐Chang , Huang Tao‐Min , Lin Yu‐Feng , Chou Nai‐Kuan , Chen Yih‐Sharng , Han Yin‐Yi , Chou Anne , Lin Yen‐Hung , Wu Ming‐Shu , Lin Shuei‐Liong , Chen Yung‐Ming , Tsai Pi‐Ru , Ko Wen‐Je , Wu Kwan‐Dun ,   the NSARF Study Group
Published: May 2010

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) can provide short‐term cardiopulmonary support to critically ill patients. Among ECMO patients, acute renal failure requiring dialysis has an ominous prognosis. However, a prognostic scoring system and risk factors adjustment for hospital mortality in these patients have not been elucidated previously. A multicenter observational cohort study was conducted from January 2002 to December 2006. Information obtained included demographics, biochemical variables, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II, III, and IV scores at ICU admission and initial acute dialysis, and hospital mortality in 102 non‐coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) patients receiving ECMO support with acute dialysis. This retrospective cohort study included 70 men and 32 women with a mean age of 47.9 ± 15.7 years. Seventy‐two patients (70.6%) had hospital mortality. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve showed APACHE IV (0.653) had a better discriminative power to predict hospital mortality than APACHE II (0.584) and APACHE III (0.634) at initializing dialysis. Hosmer–Lemeshow statistics showed good calibration for all three scores to predict hospital mortality at initializing dialysis (APACHE IV, P = 0.392; APACHE III, P = 0.094; and APACHE II, P = 0.673). Independent predictors for hospital mortality by multivariate logistic regression analysis were higher central venous pressure (odds ratio [OR], 1.11; confidence interval [CI] 95%, 1.02–1.20; P = 0.016), higher APACHE IV score at initializing dialysis (OR, 1.03; CI 95%, 1.01–1.05; P = 0.003), and latency from hospital admission to dialysis (OR, 1.04; CI 95%, 1.00–1.08; P = 0.033). High mortality rate was noted in non‐CABG patients receiving ECMO and acute dialysis. Predialysis APACHE IV scores had good calibration and moderate discrimination in predicting hospital mortality in these patients. Because ECMO support could stabilize cardiopulmonary status, APACHE IV scores would likewise underestimate disease severity at lower score ranges in these patients.
Dialysis Reduces Portal Pressure in Patients With Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Khurana Sandeep , Simcox Thomas , Twaddell William , Drachenberg Cinthia , Flasar Mark
Published: May 2010

The purpose of this study was to characterize changes in hepatic venous pressures in patients with chronic hepatitis C. The histology and laboratory data from patients with chronic hepatitis C who underwent a transjugular liver biopsy (TJLB) and hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement were analyzed. Portal hypertension was defined as hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥6 mm Hg. A single pathologist masked to hepatic venous pressure gradient scored liver sections for inflammation and fibrosis. The patients with high‐grade inflammation (relative risk [RR] 2.82, P = 0.027, multivariate analysis) and late‐stage fibrosis (RR 2.81, P = 0.022) were more likely to have a hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥6 mm Hg, while the patients on dialysis (RR 0.32, P =  0.01) were less likely to have a hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥6 mm Hg. The patients on dialysis (n = 58) had an elevated serum blood urea nitrogen and creatinine when compared with those who were not (n = 75) (47.6 ± 3.3 and 7.98 ± 0.4 vs. 25.9 ± 2.0 and 1.66 ± 0.22 mg/dL, respectively; P < 0.001). While the hepatic venous pressure gradient increased with the rising levels of liver fibrosis in the latter group (P < 0.01), it did not change in the patients on dialysis (P = 0.41). The median hepatic venous pressure gradient was especially low in late‐stage fibrosis patients on dialysis when compared with the latter group (5 vs. 10 mm Hg, P = 0.017). In patients on dialysis, serum transaminases were low across all levels of fibrosis. Twenty‐three of the 92 patients with early fibrosis had a hepatic venous pressure gradient ≥6 mm Hg. In patients with chronic hepatitis C, concomitant TJLB and hepatic venous pressure gradient measurement identify those who have early fibrosis and portal hypertension. Long‐term hemodialysis may reduce portal pressure in these patients.
Intraspecific Variation in Ecophysiology of Three Dominant Prairie Grasses Used in Restoration: Cultivar Versus Non‐Cultivar Population Sources
Authors: Lambert Allison M. , Baer Sara G. , Gibson David J.
Published: May 2010

Dominant species play crucial roles in determining plant community structure and ecosystem function. Cultivars of the dominant prairie grasses are widely used in prairie restoration and are selected for characters such as high biomass production, increased reproductive output, and stress tolerance. Genetic differences exist between cultivar and non‐cultivar population sources of dominant tallgrass prairie species, which may have implications for plant performance in prairie restoration. We measured net photosynthesis (Anet), stomatal conductance (gs), and water use efficiency (WUE) in cultivar and non‐cultivar dominant tallgrass prairie speciesAndropogon gerardiiVitman,Sorghastrum nutans(L.) Nash, andSchizachyrium scoparium(Michx.) Nash in both a greenhouse experiment and an experimental tallgrass prairie restoration. We found indicators of enhanced physiological performance (higherAnet,gs,and/or WUE) in cultivar population sources of all three dominant grass species relative to non‐cultivars. ForA. gerardii, cultivars exhibited higherAnetand WUE than non‐cultivars. ForS. nutans, cultivars exhibited highergs,whereas non‐cultivars showed higher WUE. Lastly, cultivars ofS. scopariumshowed higher WUE than non‐cultivar population sources. Our results show that population selection of dominant species in restoration can have consequences for plant performance, which may have implications for competitive interactions that affect community structure (i.e. diversity) and ecosystem function (i.e. aboveground net primary production) during the reassembly of prairie systems.
Effects of Transdermal Testosterone on Bone and Muscle in Older Men with Low Bioavailable Testosterone Levels, Low Bone Mass, and Physical Frailty
Authors: Kenny Anne M. , Kleppinger Alison , Annis Kristen , Rathier Margaret , Browner Bruce , Judge James O. , McGee Daniel
Published: May 2010

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the effects of testosterone supplementation on bone, body composition, muscle, physical function, and safety in older men.

DESIGN: Double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial.

SETTING: A major medical institution.

PARTICIPANTS: One hundred thirty‐one men (mean age 77.1 ± 7.6) with low testosterone, history of fracture, or bone mineral density (BMD) T‐score less than −2.0 and frailty.

INTERVENTION: Participants received 5 mg/d of testosterone or placebo for 12 to 24 months; all received calcium (1500 mg/d diet and supplement) and cholecalciferol (1,000 IU/d).

MEASUREMENTS: BMD of hip, lumbar spine, and mid‐radius; body composition; sex hormones, calcium‐regulating hormones; bone turnover markers; strength; physical performance; and safety parameters.

RESULTS: Ninety‐nine men (75.6%) completed 12 months, and 62 (47.3%) completed end therapy (mean 23 months; range 16–24 months for 62 who completed therapy). Study adherence was 54%, with 40% of subjects maintaining 70% or greater adherence. Testosterone and bioavailable testosterone levels at 12 months were 583 ng/dL and 157 ng/dL, respectively, in the treatment group. BMD on testosterone increased 1.4% at the femoral neck and 3.2% at the lumbar spine (P=.005) and decreased 1.3% at the mid‐radius (P<.001). There was an increase in lean mass and a decrease in fat mass in the testosterone group but no differences in strength or physical performance. There were no differences in safety parameters.

CONCLUSION: Older, frail men receiving testosterone replacement increased testosterone levels and had favorable changes in body composition, modest changes in axial BMD, and no substantial changes in physical function.
Transfusion transmission of highly prevalent commensal human viruses
Authors: Bernardin Flavien , Operskalski Eva , Busch Mike , Delwart Eric
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: Anellovirus species Torque teno virus (TTV), Torque teno mini virus (TTMV), and Torque teno midi virus (TTMDV) and flavivirus GBV‐C are highly prevalent and genetically diverse chronic human viral infections that have not yet been associated with disease.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: To determine if these commensal viruses are transmitted by blood transfusions, we genetically analyzed viral species in cryopreserved samples from blood donors and corresponding pre‐ and posttransfusion samples from recipients enrolled in the Transfusion‐Transmitted Viruses Study cohort.

RESULTS: All 24 individuals in 12 donor‐recipient pairs were infected with TTV, while 16 were infected with TTMV, 15 with TTMDV, and four with GBV‐C. None of the 12 informative cases of TTV transfusion or eight cases of TTMV transfusion, where the donor and recipient viruses could be genetically differentiated, resulted in detectable transmissions in which the donor viruses were detected in the recipient by direct sequencing of the polymerase chain reaction products. Of the five informative cases of TTMDV transfusion, including two cases of transfusion into TTMDV‐negative recipients, one case of superinfection was seen with both the recipient and the donor viral variants detected in the transfusion recipient for at least 11 days posttransfusion. Three donor‐recipient pairs were informative for GBV‐C transmission with only one transfusion into a GBV‐C–negative recipient resulting in a transiently detected infection.

CONCLUSIONS: Transmission of the common commensal anelloviruses and GBV‐C during transfusion was detected in 2 of 12 already infected or uninfected recipients. Underestimation of the true rate of viral transmission may be due to limitations in detecting donor viral variants present as minority variants in the already infected transfusion recipients.
In vitro and in vivo evaluation of a whole blood platelet‐sparing leukoreduction filtration system
Authors: Snyder Edward L. , Whitley Pamela , Kingsbury Tracy , Miripol Jeffrey , Tormey Christopher A.
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: In‐line leukoreduction (LR) filters decrease adverse clinical sequelae caused by residual white blood cells (WBCs). Such filtration, however, can remove platelets (PLTs) needed for production of PLT concentrates (PCs). This study measured in vitro and in vivo efficacy of a new whole blood PLT‐sparing LR filter (WBPSF) system that performs whole blood (WB) LR using a single closed‐system filtration step. The WBPSF provides three final LR products: AS‐5 red blood cells (RBCs), citrate‐phosphate‐dextrose (CPD) PLTs, and CPD plasma.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Volunteers (n = 59) donated WB processed using the WBPSF system. WB filtration time was recorded, and LR WB was processed into AS‐5 LR RBCs, CPD LR PLTs, and LR plasma. Final components were assayed for in vitro indices, and in vivo characteristics for LR AS‐5 RBCs and CPD PLTs were assayed after radiolabeling.

RESULTS: WB filtration time averaged 37 minutes. Transfusion products obtained after WBPSF met all in vitro and in vivo Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements. Radiolabeling of LR AS‐5 RBCs after WBPSF showed a 24‐hour RBC recovery of 81.3 ± 5.3% after 42 days of storage. In vivo dual 111In/51Cr radiolabeling of PCs manufactured using WBPSF showed a Day 5 recovery ratio of 80 ± 19% versus fresh autologous PLTs and a survival ratio of 81 ± 17% that of fresh autologous PLTs.

CONCLUSION: All WBPSF‐derived transfusion products met or exceeded in vitro and in vivo FDA guidelines. This filtration system is suitable for routine blood center or hospital use in the production of LR AS‐5 RBCs, CPD PLTs, and CPD plasma.
El sector informal de la India. Efectos de la globalización y las reformas
Authors: Siggel Eckhard
Published: May 2010

La globalización y las reformas económicas afectan por lo común al sector formal, pues el informal se halla al margen de las normas. Sin embargo, debido a los numerosos nexos que hay entre ambos, también en el sector informal se dejan sentir sus efectos de diversas maneras. El modelo teórico que se utiliza tradicionalmente para entender el impacto de estas fuerzas se basa en la fragmentación del mercado de trabajo y en las migraciones: los trabajadores que son despedidos en el sector formal engrosan la oferta de mano de obra informal, lo cual causa un descenso de los salarios y un aumento de la pobreza. El autor indaga si estos fenómenos se han dado en la India tras las reformas económicas del decenio de 1990, usando para ello un modelo basado en las variaciones de la oferta y de la demanda causadas por la «externización», las transferencias de trabajadores cualificados y las nuevas empresas.
Pactos poscontractuales en los Estados Unidos. Marco jurídico y comportamiento del mercado laboral
Authors: Hannah Richard L.
Published: May 2010

Para afrontar los cambios radicales que atraviesa la competencia económica, que están dando mucha más importancia al trabajo en el mercado de productos, los empresarios tratan de extender su control sobre el capital humano una vez extinguido el contrato de trabajo. Aunque hay pocos estudios empíricos al respecto, existe el convencimiento de que los pactos poscontractuales de no concurrencia son muy frecuentes. Pues bien, ¿hasta qué punto es legítimo que los empleadores restrinjan la libertad de las personas que han trabajado para ellos? El autor analiza los criterios que siguen los tribunales de los Estados Unidos para hallar un término medio entre los intereses económicos legítimos de las empresas, por un lado, y, por otro, la eficiencia del mercado laboral y la libertad y movilidad de los trabajadores.
Agent‐based modeling for ex ante assessment of tree crop innovations: litchis in northern Thailand
Authors: Schreinemachers Pepijn , Potchanasin Chakrit , Berger Thomas , Roygrong Sithidech
Published: May 2010

This study uses an agent‐based model for ex ante assessment of agricultural innovations. The model builds on whole farm mathematical programming (MP) and extends the methodology with a spatial representation of the system, the heterogeneity of farm households and landscapes, and the interaction between farm households. We apply the model in a northern Thai watershed to study the potential of four innovations to increase the profitability of litchi orchards. Cost‐benefit analysis shows that each innovation would increase the profitability of litchi growing; however, the results of the agent‐based model show that at current price levels these innovations alone would not be enough to stem the decline in the area under litchis. The model was validated and the sensitivity of the results tested for variations in the irrigated water supply and liquidity. We report on how farmers responded to these results and discuss the implications for other areas in northern Thailand.
Biological response of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to fluoride‐modified titanium surfaces
Authors: Guida Luigi , Annunziata Marco , Rocci Antonio , Contaldo Maria , Rullo Rosario , Oliva Adriana
Published: May 2010

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to examine the behaviour of human bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM‐MSC) to fluoride‐modified grit‐blasted (F‐TiO) titanium surfaces compared with grit‐blasted ones (TiO).

Material and methods: Implant surfaces were analysed by atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). BM‐MSC were isolated from healthy donors and grown on the implant surfaces. Cell adhesion and proliferation, type I collagen (Col I) synthesis, osteoblastic differentiation (in terms of alkaline phosphatase activity, osteocalcin synthesis and extracellular matrix mineralization) were assessed. Furthermore, the ability to affect the osteoblastic/osteoclastic balance in terms of osteoprotegerin (OPG) and activator of nuclear factor κ B ligand (RANKL) ratio was investigated.

Results: F‐TiO surface showed higher Sa values (P<0.05) and the presence of nano‐scale structures at the AFM and SEM analysis. Comparable cell morphology and similar adhesion values on both surfaces were detected at early time, whereas higher proliferation values on F‐TiO samples were observed at 7 and 10 days. Increased Col I and OPG levels for cells grown on F‐TiO were found, whereas RANKL was not detectable in any of the conditioned media. BM‐MSC showed a similar expression of early and late osteogenic markers on both TiO and F‐TiO surfaces.

Conclusions: The results of the present study show that the chemical and micro/nano‐scale modifications induced by fluoride treatment of TiO‐grit blasted surfaces stimulate the proliferation and the extracellular matrix synthesis by BM‐MSC, as well as the increase of OPG synthesis, thus preventing osteoclast activation and differentiation.

To cite this article:
 Guida L, Annunziata M, Rocci A, Contaldo M, Rullo R, Oliva A. Biological response of human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to fluoride‐modified titanium surfaces. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 21, 2010; 1234–1241. doi: 10.1111/j.1600‐0501.2010.01929.x