bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compressed error and erasure correcting codes via rank‐metric codes in random network coding
Authors: Chen Siguang , Wu Meng , Lu Weifeng
Published: August 2011

The error control of random network coding has recently received a lot of attention because its solution can increase robustness and reliability of data transmission. To achieve this, additional overhead is needed for error correction. In this paper, we design a compressed error and erasure correcting scheme to decrease the additional overhead of error correction. This scheme reduces the computation overhead dramatically by employing an efficient algorithm to detect and delete linearly dependent received packets in the destination node. It also simplifies the hardware operations when the scheme reduces the received matrix Y to form Ek(Y ) instead of E(Y ) in the decoding process. If at most r original packets get combined in k packets of one batch, the payload of one packet can increase from M − k to M − O(rlog qk) for the application of compressed code, where M is the packet length. In particular, the decoding complexity of compressed code is O(rm) operations in an extension field , which does not enhance the overall decoding complexity of the system. Finally, we also compare our scheme's performance with existing works. The numerical results and analyses illustrate the security and performance of our scheme. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eremophilane‐Type Sesquiterpenoids from the Fermentation Broth of Plant Endophytic Fungus Pestalotiopsis photiniae Isolated from the Chinese Podocarpaceae Plant Podocarpus macrophyllus
Authors: Yang Xiao‐Long , Zhang Su , Zhu Hua‐Jie , Luo Du‐Qiang , Gao Xue‐Yan
Published: August 2011

Two new sesquiterpenoid esters, pestalotiopins B and C (1 and 2, resp.) related to the eremophilane class, together with one known compound, berkleasmin C (3), were isolated from the fermentation broth of the plant endophytic fungus Pestalotiopsis photiniae. Their structures and relative configurations were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis including 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR (HSQC, HMBC, and NOESY), and MS experiments. Compound 1 has an interesting lactam structure, and this type of sesquiterpenoid with a lactam structure is reported for the first time.
Tuning of the pro‐oxidant and antioxidant activity of trolox through the controlled release from biodegradable poly(trolox ester) polymers
Authors: Wattamwar Paritosh P. , Hardas Sarita S. , Butterfield D. Allan , Anderson Kimberly W. , Dziubla Thomas D.
Published: August 2011

In a variety of biomedical applications (e.g., tissue engineering, drug delivery, etc.), the role of a bioactive material is to serve as a platform by which one can modulate the cellular response into a desired role. Of the methods by which one may achieve this control (e.g., shape, structure, binding, growth factor release), the control of the cellular redox state has been under evaluated. Ideally, the ability to tune the redox state of a cell provides an additional level of control over a variety of cellular responses including, cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Yet, in order to achieve such control, it is important to know both the overall oxidative status of the cell and what molecular targets are being oxidized. In this work, poly (trolox ester) nanoparticles were evaluated for their ability to either inhibit or induce cellular oxidative stress in a dose‐dependent fashion. This polymer delivery form possessed a unique ability to suppress protein oxidation, a feature not seen in the free drug form, emphasizing the advantage of the delivery/dosage formulation has upon regulating cellular response. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A:, 2011.
Sonographic diagnosis of pulmonary embolism with cardiac arrest without major dilation of the right ventricle or direct sign of lower limb venous thrombosis
Authors: Volpicelli, Giovanni , Mussa Alessandro , Frascisco, Mauro F.
Published: August 2011

Bedside focused echocardiography diagnosis of massive pulmonary embolism during cardiac arrest is mainly based on the detection of a dilated right ventricle, while the lack of compressibility of a deep vein of the lower limbs confirms diagnosis in doubtful cases. We describe a case of unusual sonographic signs in a young woman with cardiac arrest due to massive pulmonary embolism showing spontaneous blood echogenicity in the inferior vena cava (“sludge sign”) and nonmodulated (“flat”) Doppler waveform in the left lower limb veins, suggesting isolated iliac vein thrombosis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 40:529–533, 2012
Fusiform Micelles from Nonlinear Poly(ethylene glycol)/Polylactide Copolymers as Biodegradable Drug Carriers
Authors: Li Taihang , Han Ruiyan , Wang Mingzhe , Liu Changbai , Jing Xiabin , Huang Yubin
Published: August 2011

PEG‐PLA copolymers with dumbbell‐ and Y‐shaped structures are prepared. They can self‐assemble from nanoparticles to micro‐sized fusiform micellar particles in aqueous solution. In particular the micelles formed by the (PLA)2‐PEG‐(PLA)2 particles show a better drug loading capacity and encapsulation efficiency than those formed by linear MPEG‐PLA. In vitro studies show that the particles formed by Y‐shaped copolymers show a particularly quick drug release. The copolymers have good biocompatibility with low cytotoxicity. These unique self‐assembled systems thus have many possible biomedical applications, such as a sustained delivery of high‐dosed water insoluble drugs, quick effective drugs for trauma, controlled delivery of the oral‐administration drugs, and so forth.

magnified image
T2 mapping from highly undersampled data by reconstruction of principal component coefficient maps using compressed sensing
Authors: Huang Chuan , Graff Christian G. , Clarkson Eric W. , Bilgin Ali , Altbach Maria I.
Published: August 2011

Recently, there has been an increased interest in quantitative MR parameters to improve diagnosis and treatment. Parameter mapping requires multiple images acquired with different timings usually resulting in long acquisition times. While acquisition time can be reduced by acquiring undersampled data, obtaining accurate estimates of parameters from undersampled data is a challenging problem, in particular for structures with high spatial frequency content. In this work, principal component analysis is combined with a model‐based algorithm to reconstruct maps of selected principal component coefficients from highly undersampled radial MRI data. This novel approach linearizes the cost function of the optimization problem yielding a more accurate and reliable estimation of MR parameter maps. The proposed algorithm—reconstruction of principal component coefficient maps using compressed sensing—is demonstrated in phantoms and in vivo and compared with two other algorithms previously developed for undersampled data. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Criminal conviction among offspring with parental history of mental disorder
Authors: Dean K. , Mortensen P. B. , Stevens H. , Murray R. M. , Walsh E. , Agerbo E.
Published: August 2011

Background

Offspring of parents with mental disorder are at risk of a range of adverse outcomes. We sought to establish whether such risks extend to offending by examining rates of criminal conviction, including conviction for violent and sexual offences, among offspring of parents with mental disorder compared to offspring without parental disorder.

Method

From a random sample of the Danish population, a cohort aged ⩽15 years (n=412 117) was followed for the occurrence of conviction between January 1981 and December 2006. Incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and cumulative incidences for offspring conviction by parental mental disorder status were calculated using a Cox regression model. Analyses were repeated for conviction for a serious first offence.

Results

Offspring with history of parental mental disorder had higher rates of conviction than those without parental disorder; rates were highest for those with two affected parents [IRR 3.39, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.08–3.73]. The association persisted when parental gender, offspring gender and the nature of parental disorder were considered. Absolute rates were lower but relative rates higher for female offspring (IRR 3.26 for males with two affected parents, 4.52 for females). Similar patterns were seen for conviction for serious offences. Associations were attenuated after adjustment was made for family socio-economic position (SEP) and parental criminality.

Conclusions

Offspring of parents with mental disorder represent a group at elevated risk of criminality. This raises the possibility of shared familial vulnerability for mental disorder and criminal behaviour, and highlights the need to consider early identification and intervention in this group.
HABIT PERSISTENCE AND INTERNATIONAL COMOVEMENTS
Authors: Dmitriev Alexandre , Krznar Ivo
Published: August 2011

Theoretically, two-country real business cycle models with time-separable preferences and complete markets predict that cross-country investment correlations will be negative. The opposite is true in the data. This phenomenon has been described by Backus et al. [in Cooley (ed.),Frontiers of Business Cycle Research, pp. 331–356 (Princeton, NJ: Princeton University Press, 1995)] as a quantity anomaly. This paper proposes to address this discrepancy by allowing the nonseparability of preferences over time. Here, we incorporate internal habit formation into consumption. Our model predicts the empirically plausible value of cross-country investment correlation without sacrificing other business cycle statistics. The results are robust to the degree of spillovers and persistence in the specification of the productivity shocks.
Oxygen content dependence of the photovoltaic characteristic of miscut manganite thin films
Authors: Ni H. , Yu D. , Zhao K. , Kong Y.-C. , Wong H. K. , Zhao S. Q. , Zhang W. S.
Published: August 2011

We report the effect of oxygen stoichiometry on the photovoltaic properties of miscut managanite La0.4Ca0.6MnO3-δ epitaxial films. The oxygen content was changed by annealing the sample alternately between oxygen and vacuum annealing. With the decrease of oxygen deficiencies, the electrical conductivity increases and the variation of lattice constant decreases, respectively. It is found that the photovoltage and photocurrent decrease monotonously as the oxygen contents decrease. A possible mechanism was proposed to explain the experimental results.
Mitochondrial-associated endoplasmic reticulum membranes (MAM) form innate immune synapses and are targeted by hepatitis C virus
Authors: Horner Stacy M. , Liu Helene Minyi , Park Hae Soo , Briley Jessica , Gale Michael
Published: August 2011

RIG-I is a cytosolic pathogen recognition receptor that engages viral RNA in infected cells to trigger innate immune defenses through its adaptor protein MAVS. MAVS resides on mitochondria and peroxisomes, but how its signaling is coordinated among these organelles has not been defined. Here we show that a major site of MAVS signaling is the mitochondrial-associated membrane (MAM), a distinct membrane compartment that links the endoplasmic reticulum to mitochondria. During RNA virus infection, RIG-I is recruited to the MAM to bind MAVS. Dynamic MAM tethering to mitochondria and peroxisomes then coordinates MAVS localization to form a signaling synapse between membranes. Importantly, the hepatitis C virus NS3/4A protease, which cleaves MAVS to support persistent infection, targets this synapse for MAVS proteolysis from the MAM, but not from mitochondria, to ablate RIG-I signaling of immune defenses. Thus, the MAM mediates an intracellular immune synapse that directs antiviral innate immunity.
Lis1 is essential for cortical microtubule organization and desmosome stability in the epidermis
Authors: Sumigray Kaelyn D. , Chen Hsin , Lechler Terry
Published: August 2011

Desmosomes are cell–cell adhesion structures that integrate cytoskeletal networks. In addition to binding intermediate filaments, the desmosomal protein desmoplakin (DP) regulates microtubule reorganization in the epidermis. In this paper, we identify a specific subset of centrosomal proteins that are recruited to the cell cortex by DP upon epidermal differentiation. These include Lis1 and Ndel1, which are centrosomal proteins that regulate microtubule organization and anchoring in other cell types. This recruitment was mediated by a region of DP specific to a single isoform, DPI. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the epidermal-specific loss of Lis1 results in dramatic defects in microtubule reorganization. Lis1 ablation also causes desmosomal defects, characterized by decreased levels of desmosomal components, decreased attachment of keratin filaments, and increased turnover of desmosomal proteins at the cell cortex. This contributes to loss of epidermal barrier activity, resulting in completely penetrant perinatal lethality. This work reveals essential desmosome-associated components that control cortical microtubule organization and unexpected roles for centrosomal proteins in epidermal function.
Novel temporal, fine‐scale and growth variation phenotypes in roots of adult‐stage maize (Zea mays L.) in response to low nitrogen stress
Authors: GAUDIN AMELIE C. M. , MCCLYMONT SARAH A. , HOLMES BRIDGET M. , LYONS ERIC , RAIZADA MANISH N.
Published: August 2011

There is interest in discovering root traits associated with acclimation to nutrient stress. Large root systems, such as in adult maize, have proven difficult to be phenotyped comprehensively and over time, causing target traits to be missed. These challenges were overcome here using aeroponics, a system where roots grow in the air misted with a nutrient solution. Applying an agriculturally relevant degree of low nitrogen (LN) stress, 30‐day‐old plants responded by increasing lengths of individual crown roots (CRs) by 63%, compensated by a 40% decline in CR number. LN increased the CR elongation rate rather than lengthening the duration of CR growth. Only younger CR were significantly responsive to LN stress, a novel finding. LN shifted the root system architectural balance, increasing the lateral root (LR)‐to‐CR ratio, adding ∼70 m to LR length. LN caused a dramatic increase in second‐order LR density, not previously reported in adult maize. Despite the near‐uniform aeroponics environment, LN induced increased variation in the relative lengths of opposing LR pairs. Large‐scale analysis of root hairs (RHs) showed that LN decreased RH length and density. Time‐course experiments suggested the RH responses may be indirect consequences of decreased biomass/demand under LN. These results identify novel root traits for genetic dissection.
Anti tumour necrosis factor as risk factor for free perforations in Crohn’s disease? A case–control study
Authors: Eshuis E. J. , Griffioen G. H. M. J. , Stokkers P. C. F. , Ubbink D. T. , Bemelman W. A.
Published: August 2011

Aim  Although the occurrence of intestinal perforation in Crohn’s disease (CD) is rare, clinical observation has led to the question whether anti tumour necrosis factor (TNF) treatment is a risk factor for free perforation. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible relation between anti‐TNF treatment and occurrence of free perforation, defined as intestinal perforations leading to emergency surgery.

Method  In this case–control study, all emergency operation reports from the period 1999–2009 of patients diagnosed with CD were checked for the presence of free perforation. These cases were compared with a sixfold larger control group derived from our CD patient database. Cases and controls were matched for age, gender, Montreal classification and surgical stage to ensure equal disease severity. Cases and controls were then compared regarding previous or current exposure to anti‐TNF treatment.

Results  Thirteen patients underwent emergency surgery for spontaneous free perforation. Eight (62%) had been treated with anti‐TNF within 5 months before the perforation. In the 78 matched controls, 29 (37%) had been or were still treated with anti‐TNF. The odds for a free perforation adjusted for known confounders in two separate regression analyses were significantly higher in anti‐TNF treated CD patients, albeit with a large confidence interval (OR 4.1, 95% CI: 1.1–16.0; and OR 23.0, 95% CI 2.2–238.5).

Conclusion  This study showed a higher occurrence of free perforations in CD patients with anti‐TNF therapy compared with those without anti‐TNF therapy. Patients with CD and anti‐TNF treatment showing acute abdominal pain must be suspected of this complication.
Academic self‐concept in high school: Predictors and effects on adjustment in higher education
Authors: WOUTERS SOFIE , GERMEIJS VEERLE , COLPIN HILDE , VERSCHUEREN KARINE
Published: August 2011

Wouters, S., Germeijs, V., Colpin, H. & Verschueren, K. (2011). Academic self‐concept in high school: Predictors and effects on adjustment in higher education. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology 52, 586–594.

Academic self‐concept is considered a relevant psychological construct influencing many educational outcomes directly or indirectly. Therefore, the major focus of the current study is on the predictors and effects of academic self‐concept in late adolescence. First, we studied the simultaneous effects of individual, class‐average and school‐average achievement (i.e., assessed by school grades) on academic self‐concept in the final year of high school, thereby replicating and extending previous research on the big‐fish‐little‐pond effect model. Second, the predictive value of high school academic self‐concept for academic adjustment and success in the first year of higher education was examined. The sample comprised 536 twelfth grade students (44% boys) recruited from 24 schools (67 classes) that were representative with regard to geographical region and educational network in Flanders. Structural equation modeling showed that, when examining the joint contribution of school‐ and class‐average achievement, only class‐average achievement was significantly and negatively associated with academic self‐concept. Furthermore, a significant effect of academic self‐concept in high school on academic adjustment and success in higher education (in addition to any effects of high school academic achievement) was found. These results highlight the importance of considering academic self‐concept in educational research and policy.
Genetic variation in the 5′UTR of the KRT2.13 gene of sheep
Authors: MCKENZIE Grant W. , ARORA Reena , HICKFORD Jon G. H.
Published: August 2011

KRT2.13 is a type II keratin wool intermediate filament (IF) protein. Extensive variation was revealed in the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) of the ovine KRT2.13 gene (KRT2.13) using polymerase chain reaction – single strand conformational polymorphism (PCR‐SSCP) analysis. Nine unique PCR‐SSCP patterns were obtained with individual sheep having either one (homozygous), or a combination of two (heterozygous) of these patterns. Seven of the amplicons that produced the apparently homozygous patterns were successfully sequenced (GenBank FJ217670 – FJ217676), revealing eight single nucleotide insertions, 10 single nucleotide substitutions, a nucleotide deletion and a 16 nucleotide insertion that occurred in only one of the sequences. The seven sequences showed between 85% and 95% homology to the previously identified KRT2.13 sequence (GenBank X72379). This study emphasizes the power of PCR‐SSCP analysis in genotyping, as this extensive variation was found in only 100 sheep, of a variety of breeds. Since variation in the 5′UTR of genes may affect their expression, this genetic variation needs to be further studied to establish its role if any, in influencing gene expression and consequently wool traits.
Renegade subhaloes in the Local Group
Authors: Knebe Alexander , Libeskind Noam I , Doumler Timur , Yepes Gustavo , Gottlöber Stefan , Hoffman Yehuda
Published: August 2011

Using a dark matter only Constrained Local UniversE Simulation (CLUES) we examine the existence of subhaloes that change their affiliation from one of the two prominent hosts in the Local Group (i.e. the Milky Way and the Andromeda galaxy) to the other, and call these objects ‘renegade subhaloes’. In light of recent claims that the two Magellanic Clouds (MCs) may have originated from another region (or even the outskirts) of the Local Group or that they have been spawned by a major merger in the past of the Andromeda galaxy, we investigate the nature of such events. However, we cannot confirm that renegade subhaloes enter as deep into the potential well of their present host nor that they share the most simplest properties with the MCs, namely mass and relative velocity. Our simulation rather suggests that these renegade subhaloes appear to be flying past one host before being pulled into the other. A merger is not required to trigger such an event, it is rather the distinct environment of our simulated Local Group facilitating such behaviour. Since just a small fraction of the full z= 0 subhalo population are renegades, our study indicates that it will be intrinsically difficult to distinguish them despite clear differences in their velocity, radial distribution, shape and spin parameter distributions.
Absence of Equid Herpesvirus‐1 Reactivation and Viremia in Hospitalized Critically Ill Horses
Authors: Carr E. , Schott H. , Pusterla N.
Published: August 2011

Background: Equid herpesvirus‐1 (EHV‐1) reactivation and shedding can occur in latently infected, asymptomatic animals. Risk factors for reactivation include stress and illness. The risk of asymptomatic shedding in hospitalized, critically ill horses with acute abdominal disease is unknown. This information is important to assess the need for additional biosecurity protocols to prevent spread of EHV‐1 in hospitalized critically ill horses with acute abdominal disorders.

Objectives: To determine the frequency of reactivation and nasal shedding of EHV‐1 in hospitalized critically ill horses.

Animals: One hundred twenty‐four client‐owned horses admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital with acute abdominal disorders were included in the study.

Methods: Cross‐sectional study examining the risk of reactivation of EHV‐1 in horses admitted with acute, severe, gastrointestinal disease. Whole blood and nasal secretions were collected throughout hospitalization. In addition, mandibular lymph nodes were collected from 9 study horses and 26 other Michigan horses. All samples were tested for the presence of EHV‐1 nucleic acid by real‐time PCR assays targeting the glycoprotein B gene and the polymerase (ORF 30) gene.

Results: One hundred and twenty‐four horses met the inclusion criteria. None of the samples were positive for EHV‐1 DNA.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: These results suggest that nasal shedding and viremia of EHV‐1 in hospitalized critically ill horses with acute abdominal disorder is extremely rare. Implementation of additional biosecurity protocols to limit aerosol spread of EHV‐1 among horses with acute abdominal disease and other hospitalized horses is not necessary.
Yeast Dynamically Modify Their Environment to Achieve Better Mating Efficiency
Authors: Jin Meng , Errede Beverly , Behar Marcelo , Mather Will , Nayak Sujata , Hasty Jeff , Dohlman Henrik G. , Elston Timothy C.
Published: August 2011

By reshaping the pheromone gradient through proteolysis, yeast find partners of the opposite “sex” for mating.
Efficacy of Single Intravenous Injection of Peramivir against Influenza B Virus Infection in Ferrets and Cynomolgus Macaques
Authors: Kitano Mitsutaka , Itoh Yasushi , Kodama Makoto , Ishigaki Hirohito , Nakayama Misako , Ishida Hideaki , Baba Kaoru , Noda Takahiro , Sato Kenji , Nihashi Yoichiro , Kanazu Takushi , Yoshida Ryu , Torii Ryuzo , Sato Akihiko , Ogasawara Kazumasa
Published: August 2011

We evaluated the efficacy of a single intravenous dose peramivir for treatment of influenza B virus infection in ferrets and cynomolgus macaques in the present study. A single dose of peramivir (60 mg/kg of body weight) given to ferrets on 1 day postinfection with influenza B virus significantly reduced median area under the curve (AUC) virus titers (peramivir, 8.3 log
10
50% tissue culture infective doses [TCID
50
s]·day/ml; control, 10.7 log
10
TCID
50
s·day/ml;
P
< 0.0001). Furthermore, nasal virus titers on day 2 postinfection in ferrets receiving a single injection of peramivir (30 mg/kg) and AUCs of the body temperature increase in ferrets receiving a single injection of peramivir (30 and 60 mg/kg) were lower than those in ferrets administered oral oseltamivir phosphate (30 and 60 mg/kg/day twice daily for 3 days). In macaques infected with influenza B virus, viral titers in the nasal swab fluid on days 2 and 3 postinfection and body temperature after a single injection of peramivir (30 mg/kg) were lower than those after oral administration of oseltamivir phosphate (30 mg/kg/day for 5 days). The two animal models used in the present study demonstrated that inhibition of viral replication at the early time point after infection was critical in reduction of AUCs of virus titers and interleukin-6 production, resulting in amelioration of symptoms. Our results shown in animal models suggest that the early treatment with a single intravenous injection of peramivir is clinically recommended to reduce symptoms effectively in influenza B virus infection.
Adherent Primary Cultures of Mouse Intercostal Muscle Fibers for Isolated Fiber Studies
Authors: Robison Patrick , Hernández-Ochoa Erick O. , Schneider Martin F.
Published: August 2011

Primary culture models of single adult skeletal muscle fibers dissociated from locomotor muscles adhered to glass coverslips are routine and allow monitoring of functional processes in living cultured fibers. To date, such isolated fiber cultures have not been established for respiratory muscles, despite the fact that dysfunction of core respiratory muscles leading to respiratory arrest is the most common cause of death in many muscular diseases. Here we present the first description of an adherent culture system for single adult intercostal muscle fibers from the adult mouse. This system allows for monitoring functional properties of these living muscle fibers in culture with or without electrical field stimulation to drive muscle fiber contraction at physiological or pathological respiratory firing patterns. We also provide initial characterization of these fibers, demonstrating several common techniques in this new model system in the context of the established Flexor Digitorum Brevis muscle primary culture model.
Downregulation of RBMS3 Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Li Yan , Chen Leilei , Nie Chang-jun , Zeng Ting-ting , Liu Haibo , Mao Xueying , Qin Yanru , Zhu Ying-Hui , Fu Li , Guan Xin-Yuan
Published: August 2011

Deletions on chromosome 3p occur often in many solid tumors, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), suggesting the existence at this location of one or more tumor suppressor genes (TSG). In this study, we characterized RBMS3 gene encoding an RNA-binding protein as a candidate TSG located at 3p24. Downregulation of RBMS3 mRNA and protein levels was documented in approximately 50% of the primary ESCCs examined. Clinical association studies determined that RBMS3 downregulation was associated with poor clinical outcomes. RBMS3 expression effectively suppressed the tumorigenicity of ESCC cells in vitro and in vivo, including by inhibition of cell growth rate, foci formation, soft agar colony formation, and tumor formation in nude mice. Molecular analyses revealed that RBMS3 downregulated c-Myc and CDK4, leading to subsequent inhibition of Rb phosphorylation. Together, our findings suggest a tumor suppression function for the human RBMS3 gene in ESCC, acting through c-Myc downregulation, with genetic loss of this gene in ESCC contributing to poor outcomes in this deadly disease. Cancer Res; 71(19); 6106–15. ©2011 AACR.
Receptor for Activated Protein Kinase C1 Regulates Cell Proliferation by Modulating Calcium Signaling
Authors: Cheng Dongmei , Zhu Xiao , Barchiesi Federica , Gillespie Delbert G. , Dubey Raghvendra K. , Jackson Edwin K.
Published: August 2011

Receptor for activated protein kinase C1 (RACK1) is an intracellular scaffolding protein known to interact with the inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor and thereby enhance calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum. Because calcium signaling may affect vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation, we investigated whether RACK1 regulates proliferation of rat preglomerular microvascular smooth muscle cells. Western blot analysis indicated that preglomerular microvascular smooth muscle cells robustly express RACK1 protein, and coimmunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that RACK1 binds the inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor. RACK1 small interfering RNA (siRNA) decreased RACK1 mRNA and protein expression, significantly (
P
=0.0225) reduced steady-state basal levels of intracellular calcium (6712±156 versus 7408±248, arbitrary fluorescence units in RACK1 siRNA-treated versus control cells, respectively) and significantly (
P
<0.0001) decreased cell proliferation by ≈50%. Xestospongin C and 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (antagonists of inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors), cyclopiazonic acid (sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca
2+
-ATPase inhibitor), and calmidazolium (calmodulin inhibitor) mimicked the effects of RACK1 siRNA on proliferation, and RACK1 siRNA had no additional effects on proliferation in the presence of these agents. RACK1 siRNA did not affect the expression of cyclin D1/2 or phosphorylation of retinoblastoma protein (progrowth cell cycle regulators), yet it caused compensatory decreases in the expression of p21
Cip1/Waf1
and p27
Kip1
(antigrowth cell cycle regulators). Like preglomerular microvascular smooth muscle cells, glomerular mesangial cells also expressed high levels of RACK1, and RACK1 siRNA inhibited their proliferation. In conclusion, RACK1 modulates proliferation of preglomerular microvascular smooth muscle cells and glomerular mesangial cells, likely via the inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor/calcium/calmodulin pathway. RACK1 may represent a novel druggable target for treating renal diseases, such as glomerulosclerosis.
Clamorous Voices: Seven Jewish Children and Its Proliferating Publics
Authors: Felton-Dansky Miriam
Published: August 2011

How can a play go viral? Following its 2009 premiere at London's Royal Court Theatre, Caryl Churchill's Seven Jewish Children—a politically provocative mini-drama staging the contested history of Israeli-Palestinian relations—did just that, spawning counter-plays and performative revisions that proliferated worldwide, in physical theatres and in the internet's intangible arena.
Effective elastic properties and stress distribution of 2D biaxial nonorthogonally braided composites
Authors: Qu Peng , Guan Xiaojun , Jia Yuxi , Lou Shuai , Nie Jiaqi
Published: August 2011

Due to the interlacement of tows, the architecture of braided composites is complex, especially for the nonorthogonal braid in which the tow has various cross sections along the towpath. The microscopic mechanical analysis is highly sensitive to the geometric architecture, which causes great difficulties for the research on material behavior of nonorthogonal braid. In this article, a finite element model has been proposed to investigate the effective elastic properties and stress distribution of 2D biaxial nonorthogonally braided composites. This research was conducted for two kinds of 2D biaxial braid, 1 × 1 and 2 × 2, using a parallelogram repeated unit cell that is suitable for the description of stress distribution under different load conditions. The differences between 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 in effective elastic properties and stress distribution were discussed. The effect of braid angle on the mechanical properties was also studied. The result reveals that 2 × 2 has greater in-plane Young’s modulus than 1 × 1 with the same tow, fiber volume ratio, and braid angle, although the situation of the out-plane Young’s modulus is on the contrary.
Making Sense of Modern Medical Careers: The Case of the UK’s National Health Service
Authors: Bolton Sharon C. , Muzio Daniel , Boyd-Quinn Carol
Published: August 2011

The ongoing debate on the re-articulation of the relationship between professions, the market and the state, pays increasing attention to the issue of professional identities and how these are reframed through processes such as socialization and training. The UK government’s Modernising Medical Careers programme (MMC), which introduces significant revisions to the structure, content and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate doctor training, represents a recent example of an interruption of such processes within public sector professions. MMC strikes at the very heart of the medical profession by demystifying the process of forming, socializing and initiating new generations of professionals, and shifting the control over the processes and conditions of professional closure away from the profession itself. The article draws on the methodological and conceptual lens provided by Wright Mills’ ‘Vocabularies of motive’ (1940) to analyse medics’ reactions to recent reforms in medical education.
Subset size, activation threshold and distribution of autoreactive MZ and FO B cells do not differ in a sex-specific manner in the NZB/W F1 murine lupus model: An experimental mouse study
Authors: Enghard P , Grussie E , Rieder C , Burmester G-R , Riemekasten G
Published: August 2011

Objectives: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) shows a strong sex bias, preferentially affecting females, and B cells are thought to play a pivotal role in its pathogenesis. Here, we compared the splenic B-cell compartments, their autoreactivity and activation threshold of female and male NZB/W F1, a murine lupus model reflecting the sex bias observed in patients with SLE. Methods: Autoantibody levels and the amount of autoantibody secreting cells were determined using ELISA and ELISPOT. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence were applied to analyse the composition of the splenic B-cell pool. Purified follicular (FO) and marginal zone (MZ) B cells were stimulated and the frequency of autoreactive cells was determined. Finally, the proliferative response of FO and MZ B cells upon stimulation was assessed using CFSE dilution and [3H]-Thymidin incorporation. Results: Higher autoantibody titres were detected in female NZB/W F1 mice, which were mainly produced in the spleen. Analysing the composition of the splenic B-cell subsets, no differences were found prior to disease development. Autoreactive dsDNA-specific B cells were mostly found in the MZ compartment, while SmD1(83–119)-reactive cells were more evenly distributed. Equal frequencies of autoreactive B cells were found in female and malemice, and no difference in the response to polyclonal stimuli of the cells of both sexes was detected. Conclusions: No differences in the composition or functionality of splenic B cells were observed that account for the different disease course in both sexes.
‘There are no specific women questions’: Some considerations on feminist genealogy
Authors: Egeland Cathrine
Published: August 2011

The article probes into tensions following in the wake of feminism’s (re)mappings of itself as a landscape that ‘is not there’, so to speak, but which is constituted and reconstituted discursively and affectively. The author discusses these tensions in relation to the notion of feminist genealogy. The discussion is elaborated with reference to a concrete, past and perhaps disturbing political and theoretical landscape: the official, state-sanctioned ‘women’s studies’ in the GDR during the Cold War. The author argues that efforts at (re)mappings and fillings of historical gaps in the production of women’s studies knowledge with reference to inclusion and recognition of ‘women’s experiences’ and ‘women’s voices’ (voices that have been silenced or ignored) may render feminists unable to trace and question the political operations that have produced and reproduce ‘woman’ and ‘women’ as the significant subject of feminism. The first part of the article illustrates the challenging complexity of feminist projects of inclusion and recognition by discussing some of the feminist critiques of the so-called ‘women’s studies’ in the GDR during the Cold War. The second part locates this complexity within feminist political and theoretical landscapes and cartographies by discussing it in relation to feminist genealogy.
Generalized shared-parameter models and missingness at random
Authors: Creemers An , Hens Niel , Aerts Marc , Molenberghs Geert , Verbeke Geert , Kenward Michael G
Published: August 2011

When data are incomplete, models are often catalogued according to one of the three modelling frameworks to which they belong: selection models (SeM), pattern-mixture models (PMM) and shared-parameter models (SPM). The missing data mechanism is conventionally classified as missing completely at random (MCAR), missing at random (MAR) and missing not at random (MNAR). Under MCAR, measurement and missingness mechanism are independent, but that is not the case for MAR. The definition of MAR is in SeM terms. Molenberghs et al. (1998) provided a characterization for PMM. Here, MAR is characterized in the SPM framework, using an extended SPM class. A subfamily, satisfying the MAR condition, is studied in detail. Particular implications for non-monotone missingness as well as for longitudinal data subject to dropout are studied. It is indicated how SPM can be constrained such that dropout at a given point in time can depend on current and past, but not on future measurements. Although, a natural requirement, it is less easily imposed in the PMM and SPM frameworks than in the SeM case. Some of the models proposed are illustrated using a clinical trial in toenail dermatophyte onychomycosis.
Effects of human endothelial gene polymorphisms on cellular responses to hyperglycaemia: Role of NOS3 (Glu298Asp) and ACE (I/D) polymorphisms
Authors: Joshi Mandar S , Wattanapitayakul Suvara , Schanbacher Brandon L , Bauer John A
Published: August 2011

The functional relevance of NOS3 and ACE genetic variations to endothelial cell function is largely unstudied. Here we tested the functional relevance of the NOS3 (Glu298Asp) polymorphism and ACE (I/D) polymorphism in endothelial cells in vitro. Our hypothesis was that these genetic polymorphisms alter endothelial cell sensitivity to glucose and 3-nitrotyrosine (3NT). Genotyped HUVECs were incubated with glucose, free 3NT or a combination of these two toxicants. Significant differences in glucose-induced cell death and free 3NT-induced cell death were observed among the NOS3 genotypes. Combined glucose/3NT caused increased toxicity among the NOS3 genotypes. No differences were observed among the ACE genotypes in their responses to glucose/3NT. These data demonstrate that the NOS3 genotype may be an important predictor of, or be mechanistically involved in, endothelial vulnerability, whereas the ACE I/D genotype is apparently less important. Thus this NOS3 genetic variation may play a role in vulnerability to endothelium-dependent diabetic vascular complications.
Connectedness of approximate solutions set for vector equilibrium problems in Hausdorff topological vector spaces
Authors: Chen Bin , Liu Qing-you , Liu Zhi-bin , Huang Nan-jing
Published: August 2011

In this paper, a scalarization result of ε-weak efficient solution for a vector equilibrium problem (VEP) is given. Using this scalarization result, the connectedness of ε-weak efficient and ε-efficient solutions sets for the VEPs are proved under some suitable conditions in real Hausdorff topological vector spaces. The main results presented in this paper improve and generalize some known results in the literature.
Stability of common fixed points in uniform spaces
Authors: Mishra Swaminath , Singh Shyam Lal , Stofile Simfumene
Published: August 2011

Stability results for a pair of sequences of mappings and their common fixed points in a Hausdorff uniform space using certain new notions of convergence are proved. The results obtained herein extend and unify several known results.

AMS(MOS) Subject classification 2010: 47H10; 54H25.
BLCAP induces apoptosis in human Ewing's sarcoma cells
Authors: Fan De-Gang , Zhao Feng , Ding Yong , Wu Ming-Mei , Fan Qing-Yu , Shimizu Katsuji , Dohjima Taikoh , Nozawa Satoshi , Wakahara Kazuhiko , Ohno Takatoshi , Guo Yun-Shan , Ma Bao-An , Jiang Jian-Li
Published: August 2011

Bladder cancer-associated protein (BLCAP) is a novel candidate tumor suppressor gene identified from human bladder carcinoma and highly associated with the invasion of bladder cancer. We previously reported that it also plays a key role in the tumorigenesis and metastasis of human osteosarcoma. In the present study, we constructed a recombinant encoding BLCAP cDNA. Overexpression of BLCAP resulted in growth inhibition and induced apoptosis of human TC-135 Ewing's sarcoma cells in vitro. We further investigated the caspase-3/7 activity and expressions of the fusion transcription factor Ewing's sarcoma protein-friend leukemia virus integration 1 (EWS-FLI1) and the apoptosis regulator B-cell lymphoma 2 (BCL-2). Cell apoptosis was accompanied by the down-regulated expression of EWS-FLI1 and BCL-2. Our present results suggest that BLCAP may play a role not only in regulating cell proliferation but also in coordinating apoptosis through the down-regulation of BCL-2 and EWS-FLI1 in human Ewing's sarcoma cells.
UCSF Increases Consumer Value Through Optimal Vendor-Show Scheduling
Authors: Clark Andrew G. , Cholette Susan , Ozluk Ozgur
Published: August 2011

The University of California San Francisco (UCSF) spends approximately $600 million annually on goods and services. To lower the total cost of goods purchased while maintaining quality and service, UCSF Strategic Sourcing establishes strategic agreements with select vendors. These agreements are marketed to the campus community through vendor shows that allow vendors to showcase their value proposition directly to UCSF researchers and buyers. This paper formulates the creation of the UCSF vendor-show schedule as a bipartite matching problem with side constraints, which is then solved using a binary integer program. Of the 3,818 vendor-show combinations, the model identifies 153 optimal assignments and increases potential incentives by 62 percent compared to the manually generated 2007 schedule. The model also improves vendor diversity and selects the most suitable vendors for each show. Last, it dramatically reduces the time required to generate the schedule. Strategic Sourcing management is pleased with the results and implemented the model for the 2010 vendor-show season.
Late-Season Weed Control in Glyphosate-Resistant Sugarbeet
Authors: Wilson Robert G. , Sbatella Gustavo M.
Published: August 2011

Field trials were conducted from 2006 through 2008 to determine the influence of ethofumesate applied at planting followed by dimethenamid-p ors-metolachlor applied to emerged sugarbeet for late-season weed control in glyphosate-resistant sugarbeet. The entire plot area was kept weed-free until mid-June by applying glyphosate at the four- and eight-true-leaf sugarbeet growth stages. Glyphosate was not applied from mid-June until late-July to allow weed growth as a measure of the residual benefit from ethofumesate, dimethenamid-p, ands-metolachlor applied earlier in the growing season. Dimethenamid-p was not as effective ass-metolachlor in reducing weed density in mid-July. Late-season weed suppression from boths-metolachlor and dimethenamid-p benefitted from ethofumesate applied at planting. Dimethenamid-p applied when sugarbeet reached the six-true-leaf growth stage reduced weed density and sugarbeet injury more than earlier applications. The lowest weed density in mid-July was achieved whens-metolachlor was applied at the six- to eight-true-leaf sugarbeet growth stage compared to earlier growth stages. A planting time application of ethofumesate followed by two glyphosate applications pluss-metolachlor at the eight-true-leaf sugarbeet growth stage provided 89% more weed control in mid-July than glyphosate alone. Suppressing late-season weed development increased sugarbeet root yield 15% compared with areas not receiving ethofumesate ands-metolachlor.
Miscanthus×giganteusResponse to Tillage and Glyphosate
Authors: Anderson Eric K. , Voigt Thomas B. , Bollero Germán A. , Hager Aaron G.
Published: August 2011

Miscanthus is a perennial, rhizomatous C4 grass grown in the European Union and studied in the United States as a bioenergy feedstock. U.S. farmers might be more willing to grow this perennial species if methods for its control were established. Experiments were conducted from 2007 to 2009 to evaluate methods to control miscanthus. As glyphosate rate increased from 0 to 3.6 kg ae ha−1in a greenhouse trial, miscanthus dry weight decreased. Aboveground biomass in the summer following treatments decreased 82, 77, and 95% with fall, spring, and fall followed by spring applications of glyphosate (1.7 kg ae ha−1), respectively, compared with nontreated plots in field experiments. Summer shoot count was reduced by 41% compared with the nontreated control with fall followed by spring glyphosate applications. A second field experiment demonstrated that spring tillage with one or two spring glyphosate applications (2.5 kg ae ha−1application−1) reduced aboveground dry biomass by 94 and 95%, respectively, and reduced miscanthus shoot number by 38 and 67%, respectively, in the same growing season. These experiments suggest that although glyphosate and tillage can reduce miscanthus biomass, complete control of a mature stand likely will require more than one growing season.
Common Bermudagrass Seedhead Suppression and Growth Regulation with Fenoxaprop
Authors: Brosnan J. T. , Breeden G. K. , Armel G. R. , Vargas J. J.
Published: August 2011

Options for suppressing bermudagrass seedheads in managed turfgrass systems are limited. Experiments were conducted in 2009 and 2010 evaluating the use of fenoxaprop (25, 50, 75, and 100 g ha−1) for ‘Riviera’ bermudagrass seedhead suppression and growth regulation compared to imazapic (52 g ha−1), trinexapac-ethyl (91 g ha−1) and mefluidide (561 g ha−1). In field experiments, seedhead suppression ranged from 77 to 100% for fenoxaprop and imazapic at 35 d after treatment (DAT). Comparatively, seedhead suppression was < 25% for either trinexapac-ethyl or mefluidide at 35 DAT. Seedhead suppression was > 90% from 7 to 35 DAT for fenoxaprop applied at ≥ 50 g ha−1. Injury, determined visually, from fenoxaprop and imazapic in both the field and greenhouse measured < 25% on all rating dates, with no significant injury present after 21 DAT. In greenhouse experiments, fenoxaprop and trinexapac-ethyl showed similar reductions of bermudagrass growth; no differences in aboveground biomass were detected between these treatments at 42 DAT. Results of the current study illustrate that fenoxaprop and imazapic can be applied for bermudagrass seedhead suppression and growth regulation if moderate (< 25%) injury can be tolerated up to 21 DAT. Additional research is needed to evaluate the use of fenoxaprop and imazapic for seedhead suppression on other common and hybrid bermudagrasses.
The Fragility of Estimated Effects of Unilateral Divorce Laws on Divorce Rates
Authors: Lee Jin Young , Solon Gary
Published: August 2011

Following an influential article by Friedberg (1998) on the response of divorce rates to the adoption of unilateral divorce laws, Wolfers (2006) explored the sensitivity of Friedberg’s results to allowing for dynamic response. We in turn explore the sensitivity of Wolfers’s results to variations in estimation method and functional form, and we find that the results are extremely fragile. We conclude first that the impact of unilateral divorce laws remains unclear. Second, we make the methodological point that identification in differences-in-differences research becomes weaker in the presence of dynamics, especially in the presence of unit-specific time trends.