bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THOMAS CARLYLE'S GOETHE MASK REVISITED
Authors: Joshua Eleoma
Published: June 2012

Thomas Carlyle's copy of a life mask of Goethe is one of the most significant Goethe masks outside Germany, particularly because it is a testimony to Carlyle's role in developing strong cultural relations between Scotland and Germany in the nineteenth century, and because of his close connections with Goethe and Weimar. However, Carlyle scholars have always thought his Goethe mask was a death mask, since he states this in his letters, despite the fact that no death mask of Goethe was ever made. This essay documents the wider context of the making of the original life mask of Goethe in Weimar, and its links to Franz Joseph Gall's popularisation of the science of cranioscopy in Germany, 1805–7. It also gives an account of how Carlyle acquired the mask, and what happened to it after his death. Earlier research on Carlyle's Goethe mask maintained that it had been lost and rediscovered in the 1980s; this article offers new evidence that its whereabouts have always been known. It also reveals that, after Carlyle, it was owned by the Scottish professors David Masson and Peter Hume Brown, both of whom contributed to the transfer of knowledge of Goethe's life and works to Britain.

Eine der wichtigsten Kopien der Lebendmaske von Goethe außerhalb Deutschlands gehörte Thomas Carlyle. Sie ist ein Zeugnis der bedeutenden Rolle Carlyles in der Entwicklung des kulturellen Austausches zwischen Schottland und Deutschland im neunzehnten Jahrhundert. Obwohl es nie eine Todesmaske von Goethe gegeben hat, haben Carlyle‐Forscher jedoch immer behauptet, sie sei eine Todesmaske, hauptsächlich weil sie Carlyle in seinen Briefen so beschrieben hat. In diesem Aufsatz wird der historische Kontext um die Herstellung der ursprünglichen Lebendmaske Goethes in Weimar besprochen und ihre Verbindung zu Franz Joseph Galls Popularisierung der Wissenschaft der Kranioskopie in Deutschland zwischen 1805 und 1807 erläutert. Im Folgenden wird darüber berichtet, wie Carlyle zu der Maske gekommen und was nach seinem Tod genau mit ihr passiert ist, da man bis zu den 1980‐ern Carlyles Goethe‐Maske für verschollen hielt. Neue Beweismittel belegen, dass der Aufenthaltsort der Maske bis heute immer bekannt war und dass sie nach Carlyles Ableben von den schottischen Professoren David Masson und Peter Hume Brown geerbt wurde. Sowohl Masson als auch Hume Brown trugen entscheidend zum Wissenstransfer über Goethes Leben und Werke nach Großbritannien bei.
KARL WICHMANN (1868–1948): A RESEARCH NOTE
Authors: Husbands Christopher T.
Published: June 2012

This article is a research note that updates an earlier article published by the author concerning the circumstances and fate of Karl Wichmann (1868–1948). It provides information on several issues that was not known when the earlier article was prepared. Wichmann was Professor of German at the University of Birmingham from 1907 till his resignation in 1917. The article particularises how their British nationality was withdrawn from Wichmann and his wife and gives some further details about their life after Wichmann's return to Germany in the early 1920s. An appendix updates some biographical details about two other cases mentioned in the earlier article, those of Charles Frederick Herdener and Julius Freund.

Dieser Beitrag ist eine Forschungsnotiz, die einen früheren vom Verfasser veröffentlichten Artikel bezüglich der Umstände und des Schicksals von Karl Wichmann (1868–1948) aktualisiert. Er stellt zur Verfügung über mehrere Angelegenheiten Informationen, die nicht bekannt waren, als der frühere Artikel vorbereitet wurde. Wichmann war ab 1907 bis zu seinem Rücktritt im Jahre 1917 Professor für Deutsch an der Universität Birmingham. Es wird ausgeführt, wie Wichmann und seiner Frau die britische Staatsangehörigkeit entzogen wurde, und der Artikel liefert weitere Details über ihr Leben nach Wichmanns Rückkehr in den frühen Zwanzigerjahren nach Deutschland. Ein Anhang aktualisiert einige biografische Einzelheiten über zwei weitere im früheren Artikel erwähnte Fälle, jene von Charles Frederick Herdener und Julius Freund.
Can postictal memory predict postoperative memory in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy?
Authors: Vulliemoz Serge , Prilipko Olga , Herrmann François R. , Pollo Claudio , Landis Theodor , Pegna Alan J. , Seeck Margitta
Published: June 2012

We investigated the contribution of postictal memory testing for lateralizing the epileptic focus and predicting memory outcome after surgery for temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). Forty‐five patients with TLE underwent interictal, postictal, and postoperative assessment of verbal and nonverbal memory. Surgery consisted of anterior temporal lobectomy (36), selective isolated amygdalohippocampectomy (6), or amygdalohippocampectomy coupled to lesionectomy (3). Postictal and postoperative but not interictal memory were significantly lower in left TLE than in right TLE. Nonverbal memory showed no significant difference in left TLE versus right TLE in all conditions. Postictal memory was significantly correlated with postoperative memory, but the effect disappeared when the lateralization of the focus was considered. Postictal verbal memory is a useful bedside tool that can help lateralize the epileptic focus. Larger studies are needed to further estimate its predictive value of the postoperative outcome.
Intractable epilepsy of infancy due to homozygous mutation in the EFHC1 gene
Authors: Berger Itai , Dor Talya , Halvardson Jonatan , Edvardson Simon , Shaag Avraham , Feuk Lars , Elpeleg Orly
Published: June 2012

Purpose:  The molecular etiology of primary intractable epilepsy in infancy is largely unknown. We studied a nonconsanguineous Moroccan‐Jewish family, where three of their seven children presented with intractable seizures and died at 18–36 months.

Methods:  Homozygous regions were searched using 250 K DNA single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. The sequence of 50 Mb exome of a single patient was determined using SOLiD 5500XL deep sequencing analyzer.

Key Findings:  A single homozygous 11.3 Mb genomic region on chromosome 6 was linked to the disease in this family. This region contained 110 genes encoding a total of 1,000 exons. Whole exome sequencing revealed a single pathogenic homozygous variant within the critical region. The mutation, Phe229Leu in the EFHC1 gene was previously shown, in a carrier state, to be associated with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy.

Significance:  Although heterozygosity for the Phe229Leu mutation is known to be associated with a relatively benign form of epilepsy in adolescence; homozygosity for the same mutation is associated with lethal epilepsy of infancy. Given the considerable carrier rate of this mutation worldwide, the sequence of the EFHC1 gene should be determined in all patients with primary intractable epilepsy in infancy.
Gait and Balance Deficits in Chronic Alcoholics: No Improvement from 10 Weeks Through 1 Year Abstinence
Authors: Fein George , Greenstein David
Published: June 2012

Background

Disturbed gait and balance are common and important sequelae of chronic alcoholism. We present longitudinal data on recovery of gait and balance in alcoholics 6 to 15 weeks abstinent at baseline assessment through follow‐up assessment 4 to 16 months after baseline.

Methods

We performed a follow‐up assessment (4 to 16 months after baseline) of gait and balance functioning in 37 short‐term (6 to 15 weeks) abstinent alcoholics (STAA), 25 of whom remained abstinent through the follow‐up period. Fourteen non‐substance‐abusing controls (NSAC) were also brought back for a follow‐up assessment to examine practice effects.

Results

Alcoholics showed gait and balance impairment versus controls at both the initial and follow‐up assessments, showing no improvement in gait and balance measures over the follow‐up period. At follow‐up, NSAC showed improvement on the Walk on Floor eyes closed measure, possibly representing a practice effect not present in STAA.

Conclusions

This study finds no improvement from about 10 weeks to about 1 year of abstinence in chronic alcoholics. The study is silent with regard to gait and balance recovery that occurs prior to 10 weeks abstinence, and after the first year of abstinence. Other studies suggest some recovery of gait and balance prior to 10 weeks abstinence, and our recent cross‐sectional study (Smith and Fein, 2011, Alcohol Clin Exp Res 35:2184–2192) suggests that significant additional recovery occurs in the ensuing years.
Identifying Indicators of Important Diagnostic Features of Delirium
Authors: Huang Li‐Wen , Inouye Sharon K. , Jones Richard N. , Fong Tamara G. , Rudolph James L. , O'Connor Margaret G. , Metzger Eran D. , Crane Paul K. , Marcantonio Edward R.
Published: June 2012

Objectives

To use an expert consensus process to identify indicators of delirium features to help enhance bedside recognition of delirium.

Design

Modified Delphi consensus process to assign existing cognitive and delirium assessment items to delirium features in the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) diagnostic algorithm.

Setting

Meetings of expert panel.

Participants

Panel of seven interdisciplinary clinical experts.

Measurements

Panelists' assignments of each assessment item to indicate CAM features.

Results

From an initial pool of 119 assessment items, the panel assigned 66 items to at least one CAM feature, and many items were assigned to more than one feature. Experts achieved a high level of consensus, with a postmeeting kappa for agreement of 0.98. The study staff compiled the assignment results to create a comprehensive list of CAM feature indicators, consisting of 107 patient interview questions, cognitive tasks, and interviewer observations, with some items assigned to multiple features. A subpanel shortened this list to 28 indicators of important delirium features.

Conclusion

A systematic, well‐described qualitative methodology was used to create a list of indicators for delirium based on the features of the CAM diagnostic algorithm. This indicator list may be useful as a clinical tool for enhancing delirium recognition at the bedside and for aiding in the development of a brief delirium screening instrument.
Infant Attention to Dynamic Audiovisual Stimuli: Look Duration From 3 to 9 Months of Age
Authors: Reynolds Greg D. , Zhang Dantong , Guy Maggie W.
Published: June 2012

The goal of this study was to examine developmental change in visual attention to dynamic visual and audiovisual stimuli in 3‐, 6‐, and 9‐month‐old infants. Infant look duration was measured during exposure to dynamic geometric patterns and Sesame Street video clips under three different stimulus modality conditions: unimodal visual, synchronous audiovisual, and asynchronous audiovisual. Infants looked longer toward Sesame Street stimuli than geometric patterns, and infants also looked longer during multimodal audiovisual (synchronous and asynchronous) presentations than during unimodal visual presentations. There was a three‐way interaction of age, stimulus type, and stimulus modality. Significant differences were found within and between age groups related to stimulus modality (visual or audiovisual) while viewing Sesame Street clips. No significant interaction was found between age and stimulus type while infants viewed dynamic geometric patterns. These findings indicate that patterns of developmental change in infant attention vary based on stimulus complexity and modality of presentation.
Friendship, Anthropology
Authors: GAY Y BLASCO PALOMA , DE LA CRUZ HERNÁNDEZ LIRIA
Published: June 2012

In this article we, as informant and anthropologist, attempt to write ethnography together and to propose a collaborative and egalitarian anthropology. We start from the awareness that ethnographic knowledge is made by ethnographers and informants, and should be owned by both. We write together and separately, about each other and about ourselves, and describe a friendship that started 20 years ago, when Liria, a Spanish Gitana (Gypsy/Roma) first opened her home to Paloma, a non‐Gitana anthropologist. We reflect on our relationship and what it tells us about life in contemporary Spain, and about anthropology and its future.
Boundaries of Anthropology: Empirics and Ontological Relativism in a Field Experience with Anomalous Luminous Entities in Argentina
Authors: ESCOLAR DIEGO
Published: June 2012

Experiences that do not fit within the perspective of what is “real” for anthropologists are systematically excluded from ethnographic analysis, in spite of the teachings of relativism. Even so, I approach the following event as an ethnographic report. It happened on February 21, 1998, when I was on a research field trip with Huarpe native muleteers in Argentina. During that trip I experienced certain prolonged interactions with anomalous luminous entities. In this article we face the radical problem of ontological relativism and how it is concerned with the definition of ethnographic objectivity as well as the consequences for the boundaries of anthropology.
The Language of Calling and Assignation in Academic Anthropological Careers: 1950–90
Authors: LOEWEN GREGORY V.
Published: June 2012

Over a ten‐year period, some 40 anthropologists were studied with regard to their sense of vocation in their disciplinary careers. Through interview and other qualitative methods, anthropologists in three countries and from two generations revealed their sources of purpose and passion. The goal of this study was to explicate the nature of their choice of profession, specifically, anthropology as a scientific and intellectual assignation. Why this career, and why these persons, how have they inherited and reproduced, or altered, the discipline and what are the implications for academic professionalization in general, were some of the salient questions involved? Meaning was accrued to life by both being outside of the normative definitions of professional career as well as being marginal to the intellectual discourse and academic community. It was also found that anthropologists' lives often mimicked their ideas of the lives of those they studied in non‐Western contexts.
Tasting Earth: Healing, Resistance Knowledge, and the Challenge to Dominion
Authors: MARSHALL WENDE ELIZABETH
Published: June 2012

This article explores an indigenous Hawaiian perspective on health that accords nature the status of healing agent. It reemerged in the Native Hawaiian decolonization struggle of the 1990s where it provided an explicit critique of Western sociocultural and political–economic forces, particularly of the effects these had on the bodies and souls of the colonized and neocolonized Hawaiians. This understanding of healing derives from the ancestors of present‐day indigenous Hawaiians, as well as from the enduring ways of knowing and being that survives the onslaught of colonial power. Lying at the core of such understandings—expressed through the Polynesian principle of mana—are ideas about the interdependency between human beings and the earth. Thus, this article asks, how does mana become a basis for resistance? Can it be best understood by contrast to the Judeo‐Christian‐Islamic theology of dominion? While mana stresses interconnectedness with, love for, and dependence on nature, the biblical text (of Genesis 1:28) posits, in contrast, the separateness from and dominance over nature—a theology at the root of the 20th century, which this article concludes amounts to a politics of human dispossession and environmental degradation.
Complexity in Biological Anthropology in 2011: Species, Reproduction, and Sociality
Authors: Lewton Kristi L.
Published: June 2012

ABSTRACT  In 2011, the research of biological anthropologists contributed to the emergence of increasingly complex explanations of biological phenomena from previous, simpler interpretations. Major subjects of bioanthropological research in 2011 include new developments in understanding ancient hominin species and archaic Homo population histories; the physiological, neurological, and social effects of mating and reproducing in both humans and nonhuman primates; and the evolution of primate sociality and human cooperation. This review considers these topics of research from a perspective of complexity using conference proceedings, published articles, and social media. In closing, this article demonstrates the natural extension of our scholarly research to modern social networks and illustrates how they may act as a platform by which to increase intradisciplinary engagement and to highlight the complex, wide‐reaching, and innovative research that our field contributes to society. [sociality, Denisovans, Australopithecus sediba, biological anthropology, annual review]
Development of ethical practices and social responsibility in dental education at the university of Chile: student and faculty perceptions
Authors: Alcota M. , Ruiz de Gauna P. , González F. E.
Published: June 2012

Background

The authors argue that dental curricula in Latin America are noted for providing highly technical and individualistic training that may fail to address society's problems or instil in the dentist the idea that he/she has a social responsibility to contribute to his/her community.

Objectives

This study's main objectives were to determine whether the curriculum and the faculty teaching practices of the School of Dentistry at the University of Chile contribute to its students' commitment to ethical and social responsibility.

Methods

This was a qualitative study that investigated the perceptions of sixteen subjects (eight students and eight faculty members). Data were collected in thorough deep interviews. The interview process model conceptualised and organised the information into sets of dimensions and categories. The dimensions studied were ethical commitment and social responsibility. The categories assessed within ethical commitment were honesty, tolerance, responsibility and respect. In the social responsibility dimension, the categories were solidarity, teamwork and concern for and communication with the patient. Analysis of the textual data was performed using a method of content analysis based upon constructed qualitative matrices.

Results

Our results show that students and scholars alike realise that ethical commitment and a sense of social responsibility are not promoted in the curriculum. They do, however, recognise the importance of these qualities in dental practitioners.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the current curriculum and teaching practices used in our School of Dentistry need to be reviewed and that programmes promoting professionals' commitment to their role in society need to be implemented.
Bortezomib/dexamethasone followed by autologous stem cell transplantation as front line treatment for light‐chain deposition disease
Authors: Tovar Natalia , Cibeira Ma Teresa , Rosiñol Laura , Solé Manel , de Larrea Carlos Fernández , Escoda Lourdes , Rovira Montserrat , Bladé Joan
Published: June 2012

Limited data has been published on the treatment results in patients with light‐chain deposition disease (LCDD). Whenever possible, high‐dose melphalan followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has been the first treatment option, achieving somehow better results than conventional therapy. However, and based on the promising results obtained by treating patients with light‐chain amyloidosis with bortezomib/dexamethasone, new treatment options appear in LCDD. Herein, we describe three patients with LCDD treated with bortezomib/dexamethasone followed by high‐dose melphalan and autologous transplantation. We believe that this new approach should be the treatment of choice in this disease. In addition, those patients achieving hematologic complete response after ASCT could benefit from a kidney transplant if the renal impairment requiring dialysis persists.
Artificial membranes as models in penetration investigations
Authors: Krulikowska M. , Arct J. , Lucova M. , Cetner B. , Majewski S.
Published: June 2012

Background/aims

In vitro methods used in the research of transepidermal transport of active substances generally rely on the penetration rate of test compounds through standard membranes. Models typically used in penetration experiments are specially prepared human or animal skin samples or synthetic membranes.

The objective of this study was to establish if the test results for an artificial liposome membrane can be extrapolated to determine the actual bioavailability of active substances.

Methods

Tests were conducted in a side‐by‐side diffusion cell. As model membranes, a liquid‐crystal lipid membrane (LM), phospholipid membrane (PM) and pig skin sample were used. The test compounds were eight synthetic dyes used in hair colouring products.

Results/Conclusion

Research findings reveal that membranes composed of lipids, identical to those present in the epidermis and forming analogical liquid‐crystal structures provide a close approximation of the actual bioavailability of active substances (correlation between the results obtained for pig skin and LM was significant: R = 0.95 and R = 0.93 in the presence of a 1% Sodium dodecyl sulphate in donor system). Unlike biological membranes, intercellular cement does not contain phospholipids. The observed correlation between penetration coefficients through the PM and pig skin was not significant (R = 0.82). The experiments confirm that the PM constitutes a less credible model for the studies of transepidermal transport in real life conditions.
The first measurement of temperature standard deviation along the line of sight in galaxy clusters
Authors: Prokhorov D. A. , Colafrancesco S.
Published: June 2012

Clusters of galaxies are mainly formed by merging of smaller structures, according to the standard cosmological scenario. If the mass of a substructure is ≳10 per cent of that of a galaxy cluster, the temperature distribution of the intracluster medium (ICM) in a merging cluster becomes inhomogeneous. Various methods have been used to derive the two-dimensional projected temperature distribution of the ICM. However, methods for studying temperature distribution along the line of sight through the cluster were absent. In this Letter, we present the first measurement of the temperature standard deviation along the line of sight, using as a reference case the multifrequency Sunyaev—Zel'dovich measurements of the Bullet Cluster. We find that the value of the temperature standard deviation is high and equals to (10.6 ± 3.8) keV in the Bullet Cluster. This result shows that the temperature distribution in the Bullet Cluster is strongly inhomogeneous along the line of sight and provides a new method for studying galaxy clusters in depth.
An Isoquinoline Alkaloid, Berberine, Can Inhibit Fungal Alpha Amylase: Enzyme Kinetic and Molecular Modeling Studies
Authors: Tintu Ignatius , Dileep Kalarickal V , Augustine Anu , Sadasivan Chittalakkottu
Published: June 2012

Aspergillus flavus is a commonly found fungal pathogen, which produces aflatoxins, highly toxic and hepatocarcinogenic natural compounds. Inhibition of fungal alpha amylase activity has been found to limit the ability of the fungus to produce aflatoxins. Berberine, an isoquinoline alkaloid commonly found in many medicinal plants, was identified to inhibit the growth of A. flavus. The amount of berberine required to inhibit the fungal mycelial growth was determined. The compound was also found to inhibit the alpha amylase from the A. flavus. The binding affinity of the compound toward alpha amylase and the enzyme inhibitory activity have been determined by enzyme kinetic studies and Isothermal Titration Calorimetric analysis. Molecular modeling and docking studies were carried out to understand the enzyme–ligand interactions.
Alteration in TRPV1 and Muscarinic (M3) receptor expression and function in idiopathic overactive bladder urothelial cells
Authors: Birder L. A. , Wolf‐Johnston A. S. , Sun Y. , Chai T. C.
Published: June 2012

Aim

To examine function of both cholinergic (muscarinic) and TRPV1 receptors in human bladder urothelial (HBUC) from non‐neurogenic overactive bladder (OAB) patients as compared to control subjects.

Methods

Primary HBUC cultures were derived from cystoscopic biopsies from OAB and control subjects. Muscarinic and TRPV1 function was assessed by acetylcholine (5 μm) or capsaicin (0.5 μm) evoked ATP release, measured by luciferase assay. Overall, expression of TRPV1 and muscarinic M3 receptors in bladder urothelial cells was accomplished using western immunoblotting.

Results

Our findings revealed that the response to acetylcholine in OAB HBUC cultures (which was blocked by the nonselective muscarinic antagonist, atropine methyl nitrate or AMN) was not significantly different than from controls. The acetylcholine M3 receptor was slightly decreased as compared to control. In contrast, OAB HBUC cultures exhibited a capsaicin hypersensitivity and augmented release of ATP (3.2 fold higher), which was blocked by the antagonist capsazepine. The increase in capsaicin sensitivity correlated with increased urothelial TRPV1 expression.

Conclusion

Though characterized in a small number of subjects, augmented release of urothelial‐derived transmitters such as ATP could ‘amplify’ signalling between and within urothelial cells and nearby afferent nerves.
Geographic variation of chloroplast DNA in Platycarya strobilacea (Juglandaceae)
Authors: CHEN Shi‐Chao , ZHANG Li , ZENG Jie , SHI Fei , YANG Hong , MAO Yun‐Rui , FU Cheng‐Xin
Published: June 2012

Abstract  The monotypic genus Platycarya (Juglandaceae) is one of the most widespread temperate tree species in East Asia. In this research, we implemented a phylogeographical study using chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) (psbA‐trnH and atpB‐rbcL intergenic spacer) sequences on Platycarya strobilacea, in order to identify the locations of the species’ main refugia and migration routes. A total of 180 individuals of P. stobilacea from 27 populations from China and Jeju Island (Korea) were collected. The results revealed that P. strobilacea had 35 haplotypes for the two intergenic spacers and high genetic diversity (hT= 0.926). This surprisingly high diversity of haplotypes indicates its long evolutionary history, which is in agreement with previous phylogenetic analyses and fossil records. Significant cpDNA population subdivision was detected (GST= 0.720; NST= 0.862), suggesting low levels of recurrent gene flow through seeds among populations and significant phylogeographical structure (NST > GST, P < 0.05). The construction of phylogenetic relationships of the 35 chlorotypes detected four major cpDNA clades. Divergence dating analyses using BEAST suggest that the divergence of the major cpDNA clades occurred before the Miocene. Demographic analysis indicated that the Eastern clade underwent localized demographic expansions. The molecular phylogenetic data, together with the geographic distribution of the haplotypes, suggest the existence of multiple glacial refugia in most of its current range in China through Quaternary climatic oscillations.
FKBP12.6 overexpression does not protect against remodelling after myocardial infarction
Authors: Bito Virginie , Biesmans Liesbeth , Gellen Barnabas , Antoons Gudrun , Macquaide Niall , Rouet‐Benzineb Patricia , Pezet Mylène , Mercadier Jean‐Jacques , Sipido Karin R.
Published: June 2012

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

There is a lot of controversy about the potential benefit of targeting the ryanodine receptor (RyR) to reduce cardiac remodelling. In the present study, we use a mouse model with conditional FKBP 12.6 overexpression and we examine post‐myocardial infarction (MI) remodelling. In our study, we show that reduction of RyR open probability by this approach is insufficient to prevent and reduce post‐MI remodelling.

What is the main finding and its importance?

Conditional and cardiospecific overexpression of FKBP12.6 reduces open probability of RyR, with maintained normal baseline function and morphology.

Reduction of RyR open probability by this approach is insufficient to prevent and reduce post‐MI remodelling.

Additional pathways may need to be targeted to prevent post‐MI remodelling.

Reducing the open probability of the ryanodine receptor (RyR) has been proposed to have beneficial effects in heart failure. We investigated whether conditional FKBP12.6 overexpression at the time of myocardial infarction (MI) could improve cardiac remodelling and cell Ca2+ handling. Wild‐type (WT) mice and mice overexpressing FKBP12.6 (Tg) were studied on average 7.5 ± 0.2 weeks after MI and compared with sham‐operated mice for in vivo, myocyte function and remodelling. At baseline, unloaded cell shortening in Tg was not different from WT. The [Ca2+]i transient amplitude was similar, but sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ content was larger in Tg, suggesting reduced fractional release. Spontaneous spark frequency was similar despite the increased SR Ca2+ content, consistent with a reduced RyR channel open probability in Tg. After MI, left ventricular dilatation and myocyte hypertrophy were present in both groups, but more pronounced in Tg. Cell shortening amplitude was unchanged with MI in WT, but increased with MI in Tg. The amplitude of the [Ca2+]i transient was not affected by MI in either genotype, but time to peak was increased; this was most pronounced in Tg. The SR Ca2+ content and Na+— Ca2+ exchanger function were not affected by MI. Spontaneous spark frequency was increased significantly after MI in Tg, and larger than in WT (at 4 Hz, 2.6 ± 0.4 sparks (100 μm)−1 s−1 in Tg MI versus 1.6 ± 0.2 sparks (100 μm)−1 s−1 in WT MI; P < 0.05). We conclude that FKPB12.6 overexpression can effectively reduce RyR open probability with maintained cardiomyocyte contraction. However, this approach appears insufficient to prevent and reduce post‐MI remodelling, indicating that additional pathways may need to be targeted.
A role for ATP in bronchoconstriction‐induced activation of guinea pig vagal intrapulmonary C‐fibres
Authors: Weigand Letitia A. , Ford Anthony P. , Undem Bradley J.
Published: June 2012

Key points

Activation of bronchopulmonary C‐fibres can lead to parasympathetic reflex bronchoconstriction, mucus secretion, as well as sensations of dyspnea and urge‐to‐cough.

We show here that a subset of bronchopulmonary C‐fibres innervating the airways is stimulated when airways are exposed to either histamine or methacholine.

We provide evidence that supports the hypothesis that the C‐fibre activation is secondary to bronchoconstriction and the consequential release of ATP. It is the released ATP that then stimulates the C‐fibres.

This provides a mechanism by which bronchoconstriction itself can lead to certain sensations, as well as parasympathetic reflexes. Dysregulation of this process could contribute to symptoms of airway inflammatory diseases

Abstract  Activation of vagal afferent sensory C‐fibres in the lungs leads to reflex responses that produce many of the symptoms associated with airway allergy. There are two subtypes of respiratory C‐fibres whose cell bodies reside within two distinct ganglia, the nodose and jugular, and whose properties allow for differing responses to stimuli. We here used extracellular recording of action potentials in an ex vivo isolated, perfused lung‐nerve preparation to study the electrical activity of nodose C‐fibres in response to bronchoconstriction. We found that treatment with both histamine and methacholine caused strong increases in tracheal perfusion pressure that were accompanied by action potential discharge in nodose, but not in jugular C‐fibres. Both the increase in tracheal perfusion pressure and action potential discharge in response to histamine were significantly reduced by functionally antagonizing the smooth muscle contraction with isoproterenol, or by blocking myosin light chain kinase with ML‐7. We further found that pretreatment with AF‐353 or 2’,3’‐O‐(2,4,6‐Trinitrophenyl)‐adenosine‐5’‐triphosphate (TNP‐ATP), structurally distinct P2X3 and P2X2/3 purinoceptor antagonists, blocked the bronchoconstriction‐induced nodose C‐fibre discharge. Likewise, treatment with the ATPase apyrase, in the presence of the adenosine A1 and A2 receptor antagonists 8‐cyclopentyl‐1,3‐dipropylxanthine (DPCPX) and SCH 58261, blocked the C‐fibre response to histamine, without inhibiting the bronchoconstriction. These results suggest that ATP released within the tissues in response to bronchoconstriction plays a pivotal role in the mechanical activation of nodose C‐fibres.
Catcher Bearing Life Prediction Using a Rainflow Counting Approach
Authors: Lee Jung Gu , Palazzolo Alan
Published: June 2012

Catcher bearings (CB) are an essential component for rotating machine with active magnetic bearings (AMBs) suspensions. The CB’s role is to protect the magnetic bearing and other close clearance component in the event of an AMB failure. The contact load, the Hertzian stress, and the sub/surface shear stress between rotor, races, and balls are calculated, using a nonlinear ball bearing model with thermal growth, during the rotor drop event. Fatigue life of the CB in terms of the number of drop occurrences prior to failure is calculated by applying the Rainflow Counting Algorithm to the sub/surface shear stress-time history. Numerical simulations including high fidelity bearing models and a Timoshenko beam finite element rotor model show that CB life is dramatically reduced when high-speed backward whirl occurs. The life of the CB is seen to be extended by reducing the CB clearances, by applying static side-loads to the rotor during the drop occurrence, by reducing the drop speed, by reducing the support stiffness and increasing the support damping and by reducing the rotor (journal)—bearing contact friction.
TRADD: Promoting Senescence from Within the Nucleus
Authors: Andrianantoandro Ernesto
Published: June 2012

The adaptor protein TRADD acts as a tumor suppressor by blocking a specific nuclear ubiquitylation event.
Molecular Epidemiology of Staphylococcus epidermidis Clinical Isolates from U.S. Hospitals
Authors: Mendes Rodrigo E. , Deshpande Lalitagauri M. , Costello Andrew J. , Farrell David J.
Published: June 2012

The epidemiology of
Staphylococcus epidermidis
in U.S. hospitals remains limited. This study aimed to address the genetic backgrounds of linezolid-susceptible and -resistant
S. epidermidis
strains (isolated in 2010), including
cfr
-carrying strains. In addition, the antimicrobial susceptibility profiles and linezolid resistance mechanisms among clonal lineages were assessed. A total of 71
S. epidermidis
isolates were selected, and linezolid-resistant strains were screened for
cfr
and mutations in 23S rRNA, L3, and L4. All isolates were subjected to multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and the results were analyzed by eBURST. Overall, 27 sequence types (STs) were detected, and ST5 (21.1%) and ST2 (16.9%) predominated. The majority (62/71; 87.3%) of STs belonged to clonal complex 2 (CC2), which was mostly comprised of subclusters CC2-II (41/62; 66.1%) and CC2-I (21/62; 33.9%). Other STs were grouped within CC23 or CC32 or were singletons. CC2-I strains were more likely to display a methicillin (95.2% versus 33.3 to 70.7%), a linezolid (47.6% versus 0.0 to 7.3%), or a multidrug (81.0% versus 33.3 to 36.6%) resistance phenotype. Among linezolid-resistant isolates,
cfr
was noted only within CC2 strains, and it was detected equally in the CC2-I (3/10; 30.0%) and CC2-II (1/3; 33.3%) subclusters. 23S rRNA mutations (G2576 [seven strains] and C2534 [one strain]) were observed only among CC2-I (8/10; 80.0%) isolates. Strains showing a G2576 alteration also had M156 (7/7; 100.0%) and/or H146 (6/7; 85.7%) L3 modifications. This study provides an overview of the
S. epidermidis
clonal distribution and reports higher resistance rates among CC2-I strains. The results show that
cfr
may be acquired and expressed by both CC2 main subclusters, while 23S rRNA mutations appeared more often within CC2-I strains. Interestingly, these 23S rRNA mutants also had L3 alterations, which may act synergistically or in a compensatory manner to minimize the fitness cost while providing survival advantages under selective pressure.
AbaR4-Type Resistance Island Including the
bla
OXA-23
Gene in Acinetobacter nosocomialis Isolates
Authors: Kim Dae Hun , Choi Ji Young , Jung Sook-In , Thamlikitkul Visanu , Song Jae-Hoon , Ko Kwan Soo
Published: June 2012

This study reports for the first time the AbaR4-type resistance island with the
bla
OXA-23
gene in two carbapenem-resistant
A. nosocomialis
isolates from South Korea and Thailand.
Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis Inhibits Gamma Interferon-Induced Signaling in Bovine Monocytes: Insights into the Cellular Mechanisms of Johne's Disease
Authors: Arsenault Ryan J. , Li Yue , Bell Kelli , Doig Kimberley , Potter Andrew , Griebel Philip J. , Kusalik Anthony , Napper Scott
Published: June 2012

Mycobacterium aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisis the causative agent of Johne's disease in cattle and may have implications for human health. Establishment of chronic infection byM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisdepends on its subversion of host immune responses. This includes blocking the ability of infected macrophages to be activated by gamma interferon (IFN-γ) for clearance of this intracellular pathogen. To define the mechanism by whichM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosissubverts this critical host cell function, patterns of signal transduction to IFN-γ stimulation of uninfected andM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis-infected bovine monocytes were determined through bovine-specific peptide arrays for kinome analysis. Pathway analysis of the kinome data indicated activation of the JAK-STAT pathway, a hallmark of IFN-γ signaling, in uninfected monocytes. In contrast, IFN-γ stimulation ofM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis-infected monocytes failed to induce patterns of peptide phosphorylation consistent with JAK-STAT activation. The inability of IFN-γ to induce differential phosphorylation of peptides corresponding to early JAK-STAT intermediates in infected monocytes indicates thatM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisblocks responsiveness at, or near, the IFN-γ receptor. Consistent with this hypothesis, increased expression of negative regulators of the IFN-γ receptors SOCS1 and SOCS3 as well as decreased expression of IFN-γ receptor chains 1 and 2 is observed inM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosis-infected monocytes. These patterns of expression are functionally consistent with the kinome data and offer a mechanistic explanation for this criticalM. aviumsubsp.paratuberculosisbehavior. Understanding this mechanism may contribute to the rational design of more effective vaccines and/or therapeutics for Johne's disease.
Distinct Intensity of Host-Pathogen Interactions in Chlamydia psittaci- and Chlamydia abortus-Infected Chicken Embryos
Authors: Braukmann Maria , Sachse Konrad , Jacobsen Ilse D. , Westermann Martin , Menge Christian , Saluz Hans-Peter , Berndt Angela
Published: June 2012

Factors and mechanisms determining the differences in virulence and host specificity between the zoonotic agents
Chlamydia psittaci
and
Chlamydia abortus
are still largely unknown. In the present study, two strains were compared for their invasiveness, virulence, and capability of eliciting an immune response in chicken embryos. On breeding day 10, embryonated chicken eggs were inoculated with 5 × 10
4
inclusion-forming units. As shown by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR,
C. psittaci
displayed a significantly better capability of disseminating in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) and internal organs than
C. abortus
. The higher infectious potential of
C. psittaci
in birds was underlined by significantly higher mRNA expression rates of essential chlamydial genes, such as
incA
,
groEL
(in CAM, liver, and spleen),
cpaf
, and
ftsW
(in CAM). Although the immune responses to both pathogens were similar,
C. psittaci
elicited higher macrophage numbers and a stronger expression of a subset of immune-related proteins. The data imply that invasiveness of
Chlamydia
spp. and propagation in the host are not solely dependent on the level of host immune response but, even to a greater extent, on the expression of bacterial factors related to virulence. The fact that
C. psittaci
has coped far better than
C. abortus
with the avian embryo's response by upregulating essential genes may be a key to understanding the mechanisms underlying host adaptation and etiopathology.
Haplotype combination of the bovine INSIG1 gene sequence variants and association with growth traits in Nanyang cattle
Authors: Sun Jiajie , Gao Yuan , Liu Dong , Ma Wei , Xue Jing , Zhang Chunlei , Lan Xianyong , Lei Chuzhao , Chen Hong
Published: June 2012

The insulin-induced gene 1 (INSIG1) gene encodes a protein that blocks proteolytic activation of sterol regulatory element binding proteins, which are transcription factors that activate genes that regulate cholesterol, fatty acid, and glucose metabolism. However, similar research for the bovine INSIG1 gene is lacking. Therefore, in this study, polymorphisms of the bovine INSIG1 gene were detected in 643 individuals from four cattle breeds by DNA pooling, forced PCR–RFLP, PCR–SSCP, and DNA sequencing methods. Only 10 novel SNPs were identified, which included four mutations in the coding region and the others in the introns. In Nanyang individuals, seven common haplotypes were identified based on four coding region SNPs. The haplotype GACT, with a frequency of 75.4%, was the most prevalent haplotypes and SNPs formed two linkage disequilibrium blocks with strong multi-allelic D′ (D′ = 1). Additionally, association analysis between mutations of the bovine INSIG1 gene and growth traits in Nanyang cattle at 6, 12, 18, and 24 months old was performed, and the results indicated that the polymorphisms were not significantly associated with body mass.
10 Must-Read Articles from January
Authors: Hart Jane
Published: June 2012

In her monthly column, Jane Hart shares some "gems" useful or valuable tools, resources, and products she has unearthed for learning and performance improvement/support. In this month's column she lists her 10 favorite articles from January 2012.
The Incomplete Designer: An Interview with Cammy Bean
Authors: Campos Jeannette
Published: June 2012

In part 1 of this 4 part series, Cammy Bean talks with eLearn Magazine about the four quadrants of the eLearning pie and how to build from your strengths to become a more well-rounded eLearning designer.
Peeling Back the Layers: An Interview with Kevin Thorn
Authors: Campos Jeannette
Published: June 2012

In part 2 of this 4 part series, Kevin talks with eLearn magazine about designing before developing eLearning and understanding the layers of instructional design.
Managing the Unforeseen: An Interview With Abigail Wheeler
Authors: Campos Jeannette
Published: June 2012

Abigail Wheeler talks us through the project management required to develop creative eLearning while remembering the importance of developing yourself along the way.
Rapid Power Tools: The top performers of eLearning authoring software
Authors: Unrein Judy
Published: June 2012

Not all authoring tools are created equal. Some require programming skills and a long lead time for development, others are too simplistic to effectively address all of your needs. Enter "rapid power tools." They are easy to use and powerful enough to to create custom learning experiences. In this article, Judy Unrein looks at what's available on the market. Find out which ones make the cut.
Generalized Quadratic Augmented Lagrangian Methods with Nonmonotone Penalty Parameters
Authors: Zhu Xunzhi , Zhou Jinchuan , Pan Lili , Zhao Wenling
Published: June 2012

For nonconvex optimization problem with both equality and inequality constraints, we introduce a new augmented Lagrangian function and propose the corresponding multiplier algorithm. New iterative strategy on penalty parameter is presented. Different global convergence properties are established depending on whether the penalty parameter is bounded. Even if the iterative sequence {xk} is divergent, we present a necessary and sufficient condition for the convergence of {f(xk)} to the optimal value. Finally, preliminary numerical experience is reported.
An Unusual Case of Serotonin Syndrome with Oxycodone and Citalopram
Authors: Walter Clare , Ball David , Duffy Mary , Mellor James D.
Published: June 2012

A 77-year-old female with recurrent non-small-cell lung cancer presented to a hospital outpatient clinic with tremor, weakness, inability to coordinate motor movements, and confusion. It was suspected that the symptoms were due to possible central nervous system metastases; however, a CT scan of her head was unremarkable. The lung clinic liaison pharmacist took a medication history from the patient, complimented by extra information from the patient’s community pharmacy. The pharmacist suspected the rare side effect of serotonin syndrome was responsible for the patient’s presenting symptoms caused by the combination of oxycodone and citalopram. The patient’s symptoms resolved soon after oxycodone was changed to morphine.
A Serious Cause of Panic Attack
Authors: O'Connell Michael , Bernard Aaron
Published: June 2012

We report on a case of a patient with atrial fibrillation in the setting of Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. The patient underwent synchronized electrical cardioversion, typically considered safe and effective, which resulted in a dangerous complication for the patient (degeneration into ventricular fibrillation). Discussion of common rhythm disturbances in WPW and management strategies are reviewed.
Self-Inflicted Hyperkalemia: A Case Report
Authors: Lisenbee Nathaniel , Desai Bobby , Falgiani Michael
Published: June 2012

We present a case of a potentially lethal ingestion of potassium pills. After presentation, we briefly review the epidemiology and pathology of hyperkalemia.
Establishment of a Standardized Liver Fibrosis Model with Different Pathological Stages in Rats
Authors: Li Li , Hu Zongqiang , Li Wen , Hu Mingdao , Ran Jianghua , Chen Peng , Sun Qiangming
Published: June 2012

Objective. To establish a standardized animal model for liver fibrosis with the same assessment criteria for liver fibrosis studies that have been established on a unified platform.Methods. The standardized liver fibrosis model was established using Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats that either received an intraperitoneal injection of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) in small dosages or ingested an ethanol solution.Results. The definite corresponding rules among modeling of different weeks and corresponding serology indices as well as different pathological staging can be observed by modeling with small dosages and slow, individualized, and combined administrations.Conclusion. This method can be used for the standardized establishment of a liver fibrosis model in rats across 5 pathological stages, ranging from S0 to S4, with a high success rate (89.33%) and low death rate (17.3%) because of the application of multiple hypotoxic chemicals for modeling. We refer to the criteria of Histological Grading and Staging of Chronic Hepatitis for Fibrosis established by the 10th World Digestive Disease Academic Conference in Los Angeles in September 1994 (revised in November 2000).