bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stathmin-deficient mice develop fibrosis and show delayed recovery from ischemic-reperfusion injury
Authors: Zahedi Kamyar , Revelo Monica P. , Barone Sharon , Wang Zhaohui , Tehrani Kathy , Citron David P. , Bissler John J. , Rabb Hamid , Soleimani Manoocher
Published: January 2006

In kidneys subjected to ischemic reperfusion injury (IRI) stathmin, a tubulin-binding protein involved in the regulation of mitosis, is expressed in dedifferentiated and proliferating renal tubule cells during the recovery phase. To ascertain the role of stathmin in the recovery from ischemic kidney injury, stathmin-deficient (OP18−/−) and wild-type (WT) animals were subjected to experimental IRI. At 3, 7, and 14 days after reperfusion serum samples and kidneys were collected for the examination of parameters of renal function, morphology, and recovery. Our studies indicate that on day 14 after reperfusion OP18−/− mice have significant renal failure, whereas the creatinine levels of WT animals have returned to baseline. Compared with WT animals OP18−/− mice had more extensive tubular fibrosis. The examination of proliferating cell nuclear antigen expression indicated that OP18−/− animals have increased proliferative or DNA repair activity for a more prolonged duration. The OP18−/− animals also had an increased number of tubules with apoptotic cells. These results suggest that in stathmin-deficient mice subjected to IRI, the aberrant regulation of cell cycle progression, not observed under normal conditions, impairs or at least delays the process of tubular repair and recovery after acute renal injury.
Electrical Stimulation of Mammalian Retinal Ganglion Cells With Multielectrode Arrays
Authors: Sekirnjak Chris , Hottowy Pawel , Sher Alexander , Dabrowski Wladyslaw , Litke A. M. , Chichilnisky E. J.
Published: January 2006

Existing epiretinal implants for the blind are designed to electrically stimulate large groups of surviving retinal neurons using a small number of electrodes with diameters of several hundred micrometers. To increase the spatial resolution of artificial sight, electrodes much smaller than those currently in use are desirable. In this study, we stimulated and recorded ganglion cells in isolated pieces of rat, guinea pig, and monkey retina. We used microfabricated hexagonal arrays of 61 platinum disk electrodes with diameters between 6 and 25 μm, spaced 60 μm apart. Charge-balanced current pulses evoked one or two spikes at latencies as short as 0.2 ms, and typically only one or a few recorded ganglion cells were stimulated. Application of several synaptic blockers did not abolish the evoked responses, implying direct activation of ganglion cells. Threshold charge densities were typically <0.1 mC/cm2 for a pulse duration of 100 μs, corresponding to charge thresholds of <100 pC. Stimulation remained effective after several hours and at high frequencies. To show that closely spaced electrodes can elicit independent ganglion cell responses, we used the multielectrode array to stimulate several nearby ganglion cells simultaneously. From these data, we conclude that electrical stimulation of mammalian retina with small-diameter electrode arrays is achievable and can provide high temporal and spatial precision at low charge densities. We review previous epiretinal stimulation studies and discuss our results in the context of 32 other publications, comparing threshold parameters and safety limits.
Note. Preparation and Characterisation of Cake Rusks by Using Red Palm Oil Fortified Shortening
Authors: Butt M. Sadiq , Rasool J. , Sharif K.
Published: January 2006

Cake rusks were prepared by using different combinations of normal and red palm oil fortified shortening to explore the possibility of red palm oil (RPO) fortified shortening to enhance the vitamin A status in human dietary intake. The replacement of normal shortening with RPO up to 50% level was the most acceptable, however, the use of RPO shortening beyond this limit showed a somewhat oily after taste. Carotenoid contents in flour, normal shortening, RPO shortening and egg were 3.57 ppm, 5.85ppm, 405.39 ppm and 5.13 ppm, respectively. Moisture content increased from 3.11% to 3.22% after 28 days of storage. During baking, loss of carotenoid contents ranged from 12.07% to 14.91%. A minimum carotenoid content of 7.19 ppm were found in the cake rusks (T1) prepared with 100% normal shortening (NS) while a maximum of 105.64 ppm was observed in (T5) 100% RPO in the freshly prepared product. The mean carotenoid content in T3 (50% RPO 50% NS) was 57.80ppm however it ranged from 6.94ppm (T1) to 102.34 ppm in (T5). A gradual decrease (7–10%) in carotenoid contents during 28 days’ storage was observed. There was significant increase (0.04–0.08 mg malonaldehyde/kg) in thiobarbituric acid number during storage. Results regarding sensory attributes reflect that T3 comprising of 50% RPO and 50% NS got the highest score. Furthermore consumer response in the acceptability study also showed that T3 treatment of cake rusk is suitable for commercialisation.
Triangulation and integration: processes, claims and implications
Authors: Moran-Ellis Jo , Alexander Victoria D. , Cronin Ann , Dickinson Mary , Fielding Jane , Sleney Judith , Thomas Hilary
Published: January 2006

Researchers who advocate the use of multiple methods often write interchangeably about ‘integrating’, ‘combining’ and ‘mixing’ methods, sometimes eliding these descriptors with ‘triangulation’, which itself encompasses several meanings. In this article we argue that such an elision is problematic since it obscures the difference between (a) the processes by which methods (or data) are brought into relationship with each other (combined, integrated, mixed) and (b) the claims made for the epistemological status of the resulting knowledge. Drawing on the literature for examples, we set out different rationales for using more than one method, then we develop a definition of integration of methods as a specific kind of relationship among methods. We also discuss different places in the research process where integration can occur: for instance, data from different sources can be integrated in the analysis stage, or findings from different sources at the point of theorizing.
Evolutionary game theory and the normative theory of institutional design: Binmore and behavioral economics
Authors: Ross Don
Published: January 2006

In this article, I critically respond to Herbert Gintis's criticisms of the behavioral-economic foundations of Ken Binmore's game-theoretic theory of justice. Gintis, I argue, fails to take full account of the normative requirements Binmore sets for his account, and also ignores what I call the ‘scale-relativity’ considerations built into Binmore's approach to modeling human evolution. Paul Seabright's criticism of Binmore, I note, repeats these oversights. In the course of answering Gintis's and Seabright's objections, I clarify and extend Binmore's theory in a number of respects, integrating it with Kim Sterelny's and Don Ross's recent (respective) work on the evolution of people as cultural entities. The account also yields a novel basis for choosing between socialism (broadly conceived) and what Binmore calls ‘whiggery’ as normative political programs.
Dasatinib (BMS-354825) inhibits KITD816V, an imatinib-resistant activating mutation that triggers neoplastic growth in most patients with systemic mastocytosis
Authors: Shah Neil P. , Lee Francis Y. , Luo Roger , Jiang Yibin , Donker Marjolein , Akin Cem
Published: January 2006

Mastocytosis is associated with an activating mutation in the KIT oncoprotein (KITD816V) that results in autophosphorylation of the KIT receptor in a ligand-independent manner. This mutation is inherently resistant to imatinib and, to date, there remains no effective curative therapy for systemic mastocytosis associated with KITD816V. Dasatinib (BMS-354825) is a novel orally bioavailable SRC/ABL inhibitor that has activity against multiple imatinib-resistant BCR-ABL isoforms in vitro that is presently showing considerable promise in early-phase clinical trials of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Pharmacokinetic analysis suggests that high nanomolar concentrations of dasatinib can be achieved safely in humans. In this study, we demonstrate significant inhibitory activity of dasatinib against both wild-type KIT and the KITD816V mutation in the nanomolar range in in vitro and cell-based kinase assays. Additionally, dasatinib leads to growth inhibition of a KITD816V-harboring human masto-cytosis cell line. Significantly, dasatinib selectively kills primary neoplastic bone marrow mast cells from patients with systemic mastocytosis while sparing other hematopoietic cells. Computer modeling suggests that the KITD816V mutation destabilizes the inactive conformation of the KIT activation loop to which imatinib binds, but it is not predicted to impair binding of KIT by dasatinib. Based upon our results, further evaluation of dasatinib for the treatment of systemic masto-cytosis in clinical trials is warranted. Moreover, dasatinib may be of clinical utility in other disease settings driven by activating KIT mutations. (Blood. 2006;108:286-291)
CCL5-enhanced human immature dendritic cell migration through the basement membrane in vitro depends on matrix metalloproteinase-9
Authors: Chabot Valérie , Reverdiau Pascale , Iochmann Sophie , Rico Angélique , Sénécal Delphine , Goupille Caroline , Sizaret Pierre-Yves , Sensebé Luc
Published: January 2006

The proinflammatory chemokine CC chemokine ligand 5 (CCL5) is a potent chemoattractant of immature dendritic cells (iDCs). It remains to be elucidated whether CCL5 may also enhance iDC migration through the basement membrane by affecting matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 secretion. In this study, iDCs were differentiated in vitro from human monocytes of healthy donors. Zymographic analysis of cellular membranes of nontreated iDCs revealed a basal secretion of the pro- and active MMP-9, whereas only pro-MMP-9 was detected in conditioned media. Increasing concentrations of CCL5 significantly enhanced MMP-9 secretion by iDCs, peaking at 100 ng/ml, which optimally increased iDC migration through a reconstituted basement membrane (Matrigel™) in vitro. The CCL5-enhanced secretion of MMP-9 occurred early (2 h) and was maintained at least for 10 h. A significant increase in MMP-9 mRNA synthesis was detected by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction, only at 6 h of CCL5 treatment, which suggests that the early effect of CCL5 (0–4 h) on MMP-9 secretion was independent of mRNA synthesis, whereas the more delayed effect (6–10 h) could be mediated through an increase in MMP-9 gene expression. In a Matrigel migration assay, the CCL5-enhanced iDC migration was reduced significantly by specific inhibitors of MMP-9, such as tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 or an anti-MMP-9 antibody, which indicates that iDC migration through the basement membrane depends on MMP-9. These results suggest that under inflammatory conditions, the chemokine CCL5 may enhance iDC migration through the basement membrane by rapidly increasing their MMP-9 secretion.
The macrophage scavenger receptor CD163: endocytic properties of cytoplasmic tail variants
Authors: Nielsen Marianne Jensby , Madsen Mette , Møller Holger J , Moestrup Søren K
Published: January 2006

CD163 is the monocyte/macrophage-specific receptor for haptoglobin-hemoglobin (Hp-Hb) complexes. The cytoplasmic tail of human CD163 exists as a short tail variant and two long tail variants. Reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated that all three CD163 variants are substantially expressed in blood, liver, and spleen, and the short tail variant is the predominant mRNA species. Using cell transfectants in which cDNA encoding the CD163 variants was inserted at the same site in the genome, we evaluated the expression and endocytic properties of the tail variants. Ligand uptake analysis showed that cells expressing the CD163 short tail variant exhibited a higher capacity for ligand endocytosis than cells expressing the CD163 long tail variants. The difference in endocytic activity was explained by confocal microscopic analysis, showing marked deviations in subcellular distribution. Surface expression was far most pronounced for the CD163 short tail variant, whereas the long tail variants were most abundant in the Golgi region/endosomes. Mutational change of a putative signal for endocytosis (Tyr-Arg-Glu-Met), present in a common part of the cytoplasmic tail of the variants, almost completely inactivated the endocytic activity of the short tail variant. In conclusion, the three physiological tail variants of CD163 may contribute to Hp-Hb endocytosis by means of the common ligand-binding region and endocytic signal. However, the high mRNA expression level and relatively high endocytic capacity of the short tail variant suggest that it accounts for the majority of Hp-Hb uptake from the circulation, whereas the long tail variants may have yet-unknown intracellular roles.
Transient Goiter Enlargement after Administration of 0.3 mg of Recombinant Human Thyrotropin in Patients with Benign Nontoxic Nodular Goiter: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Trial
Authors: Nielsen Viveque Egsgaard , Bonnema Steen J. , Hegedüs Laszlo
Published: January 2006

Background: Recombinant human (rh) TSH, in doses from 0.01 to 0.9 mg, has been used to augment the effect of radioiodine (131I) therapy in patients with a benign nontoxic nodular goiter. Transient thyroid enlargement and thyrotoxicosis may be seen following 131I therapy.

Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate whether rhTSH per se causes goiter enlargement, until now an issue evaluated only in healthy nongoitrous subjects.

Methods: In random order, 10 patients with nontoxic nodular goiter [mean 39.8 ± 20.5 (sd) ml] received either 0.3 mg rhTSH or isotonic saline in a double-blinded crossover design. Thyroid volume (by ultrasound) and function were closely monitored during the following 28 d.

Results: Saline injection did not affect thyroid function or size. After rhTSH, median serum TSH increased from baseline 0.97 mU/liter (range 0.39–1.56) to 37.0 mU/liter (range 18.5–55.0) at 24 h (P < 0.01), with a subsequent decline to subnormal levels at d 7. Mean free T4 and free T3 increased significantly from baseline to a maximum at 48 h. Twenty-four hours after rhTSH, the mean goiter volume was significantly increased by 9.8 ± 2.3% (sem) (P = 0.01) and after 48 h by 24.0 ± 5.1% (P = 0.002). The goiter enlargement had reverted at d 7. Nine patients had symptoms of hyperthyroidism and/or cervical compression after rhTSH, as opposed to one during placebo treatment (P < 0.02).

Conclusions: A transient average goiter enlargement of up to 24% is seen after 0.3 mg rhTSH. This may lead to a significant cervical compression when used for augmentation of 131I therapy in patients with goiter. The use of lower doses of rhTSH needs to be explored.
APRO4 negatively regulates Src tyrosine kinase activity in PC12 cells
Authors: Rahmani Zohra
Published: January 2006

The Src nonreceptor tyrosine kinase plays an important role in multiple signalling pathways that regulate several cellular functions including proliferation, differentiation and transformation. The activity of Src is tightly regulated in vivo and can be modulated by interactions of its SH2 and SH3 domains with high-affinity ligands. APRO4 (anti-proliferative 4) belongs to a new antiproliferative gene family involved in the negative control of the cell cycle. This report shows that APRO4 associates with Src via its C-terminal proline-rich domain, and downregulates Src kinase activity. Moreover, overexpression of APRO4 leads to inhibition of neurite outgrowth and Ras/MAP kinase signalling in PC12 cells. Furthermore, the kinetics of endogenous Src inactivation correlates with an increase in endogenous APRO4 co-immunoprecipitation in FGF-stimulated PC12 cells. Finally, downregulation of endogenous APRO4 by expression of antisense RNA induces the activation of Src and spontaneous formation of neurites in PC12 cells. Therefore, by controlling the basal threshold of Src activity, APRO4 constitutes an important negative regulatory mechanism for Src-mediated signalling.
Histaminergic Neurons Protect the Developing Hippocampus from Kainic Acid-Induced Neuronal Damage in an Organotypic Coculture System
Authors: Kukko-Lukjanov Tiina-Kaisa , Soini Sanna , Taira Tomi , Michelsen Kimmo A. , Panula Pertti , Holopainen Irma E.
Published: January 2006

The central histaminergic neuron system inhibits epileptic seizures, which is suggested to occur mainly through histamine 1 (H1) and histamine 3 (H3) receptors. However, the importance of histaminergic neurons in seizure-induced cell damage is poorly known. In this study, we used an organotypic coculture system and confocal microscopy to examine whether histaminergic neurons, which were verified by immunohistochemistry, have any protective effect on kainic acid (KA)-induced neuronal damage in the developing hippocampus. Fluoro-Jade B, a specific marker for degenerating neurons, indicated that, after the 12 h KA (5 μm) treatment, neuronal damage was significantly attenuated in the hippocampus cultured together with the posterior hypothalamic slice containing histaminergic neurons [HI plus HY (POST)] when compared with the hippocampus cultured alone (HI) or with the anterior hypothalamus devoid of histaminergic neurons. Moreover, α-fluoromethylhistidine, an inhibitor of histamine synthesis, eliminated the neuroprotective effect in KA-treated HI plus HY (POST), and extracellularly applied histamine (1 nmto 100 μm) significantly attenuated neuronal damage only at 1 nmconcentration in HI. After the 6 h KA treatment, spontaneous electrical activity registered in the CA1 subregion contained significantly less burst activity in HI plus HY (POST) than in HI. Finally, in KA-treated slices, the H3receptor antagonist thioperamide enhanced the neuroprotective effect of histaminergic neurons, whereas the H1receptor antagonists triprolidine and mepyramine dose-dependently decreased the neuroprotection in HI plus HY (POST). Our results suggest that histaminergic neurons protect the developing hippocampus from KA-induced neuronal damage, with regulation of neuronal survival being at least partly mediated through H1and H3receptors.
Rab3 Superprimes Synaptic Vesicles for Release: Implications for Short-Term Synaptic Plasticity
Authors: Schlüter Oliver M. , Basu Jayeeta , Südhof Thomas C. , Rosenmund Christian
Published: January 2006

Presynaptic vesicle trafficking and priming are important steps in regulating synaptic transmission and plasticity. The four closely related small GTP-binding proteins Rab3A, Rab3B, Rab3C, and Rab3D are believed to be important for these steps. In mice, the complete absence of all Rab3s leads to perinatal lethality accompanied by a 30% reduction of probability of Ca2+-triggered synaptic release. This study examines the role of Rab3 during Ca2+-triggered release in more detail and identifies its impact on short-term plasticity. Using patch-clamp electrophysiology of autaptic neuronal cultures from Rab3-deficient mouse hippocampus, we show that excitatory Rab3-deficient neurons display unique time- and frequency-dependent short-term plasticity characteristics in response to spike trains. Analysis of vesicle release and repriming kinetics as well as Ca2+sensitivity of release indicate that Rab3 acts on a subset of primed, fusion competent vesicles. They lower the amount of Ca2+required for action potential-triggered release, which leads to a boosting of release probability, but their action also introduces a significant delay in the supply of these modified vesicles. As a result, Rab3-induced modifications to primed vesicles causes a transient increase in the transduction efficacy of synaptic action potential trains and optimizes the encoding of synaptic information at an intermediate spike frequency range.
Loss ofp53Induces Changes in the Behavior of Subventricular Zone Cells: Implication for the Genesis of Glial Tumors
Authors: Gil-Perotin Sara , Marin-Husstege Mireya , Li Jiadong , Soriano-Navarro Mario , Zindy Frederique , Roussel Martine F. , Garcia-Verdugo Jose-Manuel , Casaccia-Bonnefil Patricia
Published: January 2006

The role of multipotential progenitors and neural stem cells in the adult subventricular zone (SVZ) as cell-of-origin of glioblastoma has been suggested by studies on human tumors and transgenic mice. However, it is still unknown whether glial tumors are generated by all of the heterogeneous SVZ cell types or only by specific subpopulations of cells. It has been proposed that transformation could result from lack of apoptosis and increased self-renewal, but the definition of the properties leading to neoplastic transformation of SVZ cells are still elusive. This study addresses these questions in mice carrying the deletion ofp53, a tumor-suppressor gene expressed in the SVZ. We show here that, although loss ofp53by itself is not sufficient for tumor formation, it provides a proliferative advantage to the slow- and fast-proliferating subventricular zone (SVZ) populations associated with their rapid differentiation. This results in areas of increased cell density that are distributed along the walls of the lateral ventricles and often associated with increasedp53-independent apoptosis. Transformation occurs when loss ofp53is associated with a mutagenic stimulus and is characterized by dramatic changes in the properties of the quiescent adult SVZ cells, including enhanced self-renewal, recruitment to the fast-proliferating compartment, and impaired differentiation.

Together, these findings provide a cellular mechanism for how the slow-proliferating SVZ cells can give rise to glial tumors in the adult brain.
A Critical Role of Erythropoietin Receptor in Neurogenesis and Post-Stroke Recovery
Authors: Tsai Peter T. , Ohab John J. , Kertesz Nathalie , Groszer Matthias , Matter Cheryl , Gao Jing , Liu Xin , Wu Hong , Carmichael S. Thomas
Published: January 2006

Erythropoietin (EPO) is the principal growth factor regulating the production of red blood cells. Recent studies demonstrated that exogenous EPO acts as a neuroprotectant and regulates neurogenesis. Using a genetic approach, we evaluate the roles of endogenous EPO and its classical receptor (EPOR) in mammalian neurogenesis. We demonstrate severe and identical embryonic neurogenesis defects in animals null for either theEpoorEpoRgene, suggesting that the classical EPOR is essential for EPO action during embryonic neurogenesis. Furthermore, by generating conditionalEpoRknock-down animals, we demonstrate that brain-specific deletion ofEpoRleads to significantly reduced cell proliferation in the subventricular zone and impaired post-stroke neurogenesis.EpoRconditional knockdown leads to a specific deficit in post-stroke neurogenesis through impaired migration of neuroblasts to the peri-infarct cortex. Our results suggest that both EPO and EPOR are essential for early embryonic neural development and that the classical EPOR is important for adult neurogenesis and for migration of regenerating neurons during post-injury recovery.
Test method for determination of the transmission and anchorage lengths in prestressed reinforcement
Authors: Martí-Vargas J. R. , Serna-Ros P. , Fernández-Prada M. A. , Miguel-Sosa P. F. , Arbeláez C. A.
Published: January 2006

This paper describes a new test method to characterise the bond of prestressed reinforcements to concrete. In order to analyse the bond behaviour in terms of transmission and anchorage, this test method sequentially reproduces on the same specimen of concrete the prestressing transmission and the anchorage when the structure is brought into service. The most outstanding new aspect of the test is that it enables the anchorage length of the prestressed reinforcements to be determined after the transmission of the prestressing force. To prevent the bond phenomenon from becoming distorted, internal measuring devices are not used in the elements to be tested. The test method is representative, reliable, simple and economic. This method can be standardised and is applicable in quality control as an acceptance–rejection test. The basis of the test method and the instrumentation and equipment necessary for implementation are explained, as well as the operative procedure and a comparative analysis of the test reliability compared with other methodologies and the advantages of the new test method.
Influence of Late‐Season Iron, Nitrogen, and Seaweed Extract on Fall Color Retention and Cold Tolerance of Four Bermudagrass Cultivars
Authors: Munshaw G. C. , Ervin E. H. , Shang C. , Askew S. D. , Zhang X. , Lemus R. W.
Published: January 2006

Late‐season fertilization of bermudagrasses (Cynodon spp. L.C. Rich.) in the transition zone of the United States has traditionally been not recommended. This study was conducted to determine whether late‐season fertilization could extend the duration of turfgrass color retention and visual quality without negatively impacting cold tolerance. Field plots of ‘Midiron’ and ‘Tifway’ bermudagrasses (C. dactylon × C. transvaalensis Burtt Davy), as well as ‘Princess‐77’ and ‘Riviera’ bermudagrasses [C. dactylon (L.) Pers. var. dactylon] received applications of seaweed extract (SWE) (0.54 kg ha−1), N (49 kg ha−1), and Fe (1 kg ha−1) every 3 wk during the fall of 2001 and 2002. Visual turfgrass assessment showed that cultivar color ratings decreased as the fall progressed, with Princess‐77 having greatest color retention in November of both years. Nitrogen was the only treatment to increase turfgrass color ratings relative to the control at the end of each growing season. Stolon samples removed from acclimated plants were artificially frozen to determine freezing tolerance. Midiron displayed the best freezing tolerance followed by Riviera, Tifway, and Princess‐77. Chemical treatments did not have a significant effect on shoot regrowth from stolon nodes after freezing. In both years Midiron and Riviera displayed the quickest and greatest amount of spring greenup followed by Tifway and then Princess‐77. Cold tolerance indicators proline and linolenic acid were highest in Midiron, followed by Riviera, Tifway, and Princess‐77. Nitrogen, SWE, and Fe did not generally have an effect on linolenic acid and no consistent effects of these chemical treatments were noted on proline concentration. The results of this study indicate that judicious N applications during the fall can promote color retention and do not have a negative effect on bermudagrass cold tolerance.
Heritabilities and Correlations of Fusarium Ear Rot Resistance and Fumonisin Contamination Resistance in Two Maize Populations
Authors: Robertson Leilani A. , Kleinschmidt Craig E. , White Don G. , Payne Gary A. , Maragos Chris M. , Holland James B.
Published: January 2006

Fusarium verticillioides (Sacc.) Nirenberg (synonym F. moniliforme Sheldon) (teleomorph: Gibberella moniliformis) and F. proliferatum (Matsushima) Nirenberg (teleomorph: G. intermedia) are fungal pathogens of maize (Zea mays L.) that cause ear rot and contaminate grain with fumonisins, a family of mycotoxins that adversely affect animal and human health. The objective of this study was to estimate heritabilities of and genotypic and phenotypic correlations between fumonisin concentration, ear rot, and flowering time in two maize populations. In the (GE440 × FR1064) × FR1064 backcross population, the genotypic and phenotypic correlations between ear rot and fumonisin concentration were 0.96 and 0.40, respectively. Heritability estimated on an entry mean basis was 0.75 for fumonisin concentration and 0.47 for ear rot resistance. In the NC300 × B104 recombinant inbred line population, the genotypic and phenotypic correlations between ear rot and fumonisin concentration were 0.87 and 0.64, respectively. Heritability estimated on an entry mean basis was 0.86 for fumonisin concentration and 0.80 for ear rot resistance. Correlations between fumonisin concentration and silking date were not significant in either population, and correlations between ear rot resistance and silking date were small (less than 0.30) in both populations. Moderate to high heritabilities and strong genetic correlations between ear rot and fumonisin concentration suggest that selection for reduced ear rot should frequently identify lines with reduced fumonisin concentration. Ear rot can be screened visually and so is less costly and less time‐consuming to evaluate than laboratory assays for fumonisin concentration.
Potassium Availability Indices and Turfgrass Performance in a Calcareous Sand Putting Green
Authors: Woods Micah S. , Ketterings Quirine M. , Rossi Frank S. , Petrovic A. Martin
Published: January 2006

Turfgrass managers regularly apply K to creeping bentgrass [Agrostis stolonifera var. palustris (Huds.) Farw.] putting greens on the basis of soil test results or in some relation to annual N fertilizer rates. In the many putting greens that have sand rootzones, K is susceptible to leaching, and in calcareous sands, K availability is further limited by high Ca levels. The K requirements for calcareous sand putting greens are not clear. A 2‐yr field study was conducted on an L‐93 creeping bentgrass putting green grown on a calcareous sand rootzone at Ithaca, NY. Potassium fertilizer was applied with N in 167 mL H2O m−2 at 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 g K m−2 14 d−1 during the 2002 and 2003 growing seasons. Leaf tissue samples were collected monthly, and soil samples were collected every 56 d. Turfgrass performance characteristics such as color, quality, and ball roll were evaluated visually and quantitatively. Without K addition, soil test K indicators decreased over time, and low levels of soil K (<1.25 mmol 1 M NH4OAc‐K kg−1) were prevalent in all plots receiving the lowest (<2 g K m−2 14 d−1) K rates. Potassium application had no beneficial effects on turfgrass performance. We conclude that acceptable creeping bentgrass performance can be achieved across a wide gradient of soil K levels and tissue K contents (255–639 mmol kg−1 dry weight) in calcareous sand rootzones. Recommended levels of soil and tissue K should be reevaluated to avoid gratuitous use of K fertilizers.
Radicle Length and Osmotic Stress Affect the Chilling Sensitivity of Cucumber Radicles
Authors: Mangrich Mary E. , Martinez‐Font Rafael T. , Saltveit Mikal E.
Published: January 2006

Cold soil and air temperatures reduce germination, seedling growth, and stand establishment of many important agronomic and horticultural crops. Chilling tolerance of many seeds is lost as they germinate and grow into young seedlings. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus cv. Poinsett 76) seedling radicles lose chilling tolerance as they emerge and elongate. Chilling at 2.5°C for 72 h reduced subsequent elongation at 25°C by 12, 41, and 77% for 1‐, 10‐, and 20‐mm‐long radicles, respectively. Radicle elongation followed an exponential decline with increasing mannitol concentration (r2 > 0.9) for radicles initially 1 or 10 mm in length. Chilling 1‐mm radicles treated for 24 h in 0.3 or 0.6 M mannitol inhibited elongation 90 or 40%, respectively. During mannitol treatment, 0.3 and 0.6 M treated radicles increased 12.5 and 0.7 mm in length. Chilling 10‐mm radicles treated for 24 h in 0.3 or 0.6 M mannitol inhibited elongation 99 or 33%, respectively. During mannitol treatment, 0.3 and 0.6 M treated radicles increased 23.8 and 1.1 mm in length. The percentage inhibition of chilling‐induced radicle elongation was related to the initial radicle length when chilled by a curve of the form CL = Co × (1 − e−KL) that describes many biological reactions where the rate of change is constant and proportional to the amount of reactants present. The increase in chilling‐induced inhibition of radicle elongation with increasing radicle length was consistent with the progressive loss of protective compounds, possibly through dilution as the tissue expanded in volume during radicle elongation.
Communicating With Patients With Hearing Loss or Deafness—Can You Hear Me?
Authors: O’Leary Dianne P. , O’Leary Timothy J.
Published: February 2024

This Viewpoint explores the ideal safeguards to improve communication with patients who are deaf or hearing impaired.
Cost of Care for Newborns With Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome in a State Medicaid Program
Authors: Jenkins Caroline , Hudnall Matthew , Hanson Courtney , Lewis Dwight , Parton Jason M.
Published: February 2024

Importance

Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) is a medical condition among neonates experiencing substance withdrawal due to the mother’s substance use during pregnancy. While previous studies suggest that the overall incidence and annual costs of NAS are increasing, to date, the long-term costs have yet to be demonstrated in Medicaid populations.

Objective

To examine the demographic differences and long-term costs of care for neonates diagnosed with vs not diagnosed with NAS.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used claims data from the Alabama Medicaid Agency for neonates born to Medicaid-eligible mothers between January 1, 2010, and December 31, 2020. Data were analyzed in June 2022.

Exposure

A diagnosis of NAS within 30 days of birth.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Rate of NAS by demographic and birth characteristics, long-term costs attributable to NAS status and demographic and birth characteristics, and distribution of this expenditure over the enrollment period.

Results

A total of 346 259 neonates with Medicaid eligibility were born during the study period (mean [SD] gestational age, 38.4 [2.2] weeks; 50.5%, male), 4027 (1.2%) of whom had an NAS diagnosis within 30 days of birth. A larger percentage of neonates with an NAS diagnosis were male (52.7%) than in the group without NAS (50.5%). Neonates with NAS also weighed less at birth (mean difference, −212.0 g; 95% CI, −231.1 to −192.8 g) and had older mothers (mean difference, 3.4 years; 95% CI, 2.6-4.2 years). An NAS diagnosis had an estimated additional cost of $17 921 (95% CI, $14 830-$21 012) over the enrollment period, and this cost was not evenly distributed over that period.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of neonates born into the Alabama Medicaid population, those with an NAS diagnosis had a different demographic profile and a higher cost to state Medicaid agencies than those without NAS. These findings warrant further effort to reduce the occurrence of NAS.
Dental Use and Spending in Medicare Advantage and Traditional Medicare, 2010-2021
Authors: Simon Lisa , Cai Christopher
Published: February 2024

This cross-sectional study examines Medicare Advantage and traditional Medicare beneficiaries’ use of and spending for dental services.
Paused—A Residency Interrupted
Authors: Newcome Elle Maureen
Published: February 2024

This essay describes the author’s experience with a biking accident.
Origin of Transthyretin in Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy
Authors: Nomura Toshiya , Misumi Yohei , Tasaki Masayoshi , Obayashi Konen , Yamashita Taro , Ando Yukio , Ueda Mitsuharu
Published: February 2024

This case series evaluates the correlation between transthyretin and cerebral amyloid angiopathy progression in individuals with hereditary transthyretin amyloidosis.
Effect of a Billing Code to Reimburse Nurse‐Supported Rheumatology Care on Health Care Costs and Access: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
Authors: Trenaman Logan , Guh Daphne , Law Michael R. , Cheng Lucy , Harrison Mark
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study was undertaken to evaluate the impact of a Multidisciplinary Care Assessment (MCA) billing code on health system costs and access to care in British Columbia (BC).

Methods

Data on all people treated by rheumatologists in BC were obtained from five linked health administrative databases held by Population Data BC from April 1, 2006, to March 31, 2020. Rheumatologists were allocated to either the intervention (ever‐billers) or control groups (never‐billers). For the intervention group, the index date was the month of the first MCA code billing. For the control group the index dates were imputed from intervention index dates. Our analysis focused on a 48‐month period (24 months before and after the index date). We evaluated the impact on two cost (costs related to rheumatoid arthritis [RA]; total health care costs) and access outcomes (rheumatology‐related visits per rheumatologist; days between rheumatology visits for patients with RA) using an interrupted time series analysis.

Results

A total of 46 rheumatologists (31 intervention and 15 control) met our inclusion criteria. Introduction of the MCA was associated with a small but significant increase in RA‐related costs that, at 2 years, translates to a net absolute change of $9.66 per patient per month, but no statistically significant changes in total health care costs. There was no statistically significant change in the number of rheumatology‐related visits, but at 2 years there was a net absolute reduction in the median days between rheumatologist visits for patients with RA (6.3 days).

Conclusion

The introduction of the MCA code was associated with a negligible increase in the RA‐related costs and an improvement in access to ongoing care for patients.
Toward the Improvement of the Short‐Loop Recycling of Dy‐Rich Nd–Fe–B Permanent Magnets: Experimental and Numerical Approaches
Authors: Bacchetta Gatien , Luca Sorana , Rado Cyril , Orlandini‐Keller Frederico , Garandet Jean‐Paul
Published: February 2024

The method of short‐loop recycling of Nd–Fe–B magnets is implemented, with end‐of‐life (EoL) magnets used as a source of heavy rare earth (HRE). Partially recycled magnets are fabricated by co‐sintering HRE‐free powders obtained from strip casted alloys, blended with HRE‐rich powders obtained from EoL magnets. The impact of several process parameters (blending ratio, sintering cycle, and HRE‐rich recycled particle sizes) on the microstructure and magnetic properties is discussed. A coercivity gain up to 160 kA m−1 wt%−1 of Dy with respect to the HRE‐free magnets is reported, even though impurities are incorporated. Microstructural characterizations show a heterogeneous Dy localization in core–shell/anticore–shell structures, and thus a nonoptimal use of HRE. The experimental results are compared with finite element simulations of the Dy diffusion transport performed using existing data of bulk Dy diffusion coefficients. The simulation model consists of a network of square grains separated by a liquid phase, whose fraction is based on the ternary Nd–Fe–B phase diagram. Results show similarities with the observed microstructures, and point to the interest of reducing the Dy‐rich particle size with respect to the main powder. This study provides new insights into the Dy transport mechanisms at stake in an efficient short‐loop recycling of HRE.
An ROS‐Scavenging Treg‐Recruiting Hydrogel Patch for Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Qu Moyuan , Xu Weizhe , Zhou Xingwu , Tang Fan , Chen Qian , Zhang Xia , Bai Xiaofeng , Li Zhiyong , Jiang Xing , Chen Qianming
Published: February 2024

Chronic inflammation and excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) can impair diabetic wound healing. Regulatory T cells (Tregs) have emerged as a promising target to promote wound healing by regulating the immune system and supporting tissue repair through the secretion of growth factors and cytokines. However, an effective strategy for the on‐demand recruitment of Tregs for wound healing is still lacking. Here, an ROS‐scavenging Tregs‐recruiting hydrogel patch is developed for the sequential release of C─C motif chemokine 22 (CCL22) triggered by the ROS in the diabetic wound bed. The hydrogel patch is prepared by crosslinking the gelatin with ROS cleavable linker together with CCL22 (RSG‐CCL22). RSG‐CCL22 presented desirable physical properties suitable for skin regeneration purposes. In addition, the ROS scavenging feature of the RSG suppresses the differentiation of T helper 17 (Th17) cells and protects the recruited Tregs from apoptosis and oxidative stress, which maximizes their function in accelerating wound closure and promoting hair follicle regeneration in a diabetic full‐thickness skin defect mouse model. Therefore, the proposed approach provides a new therapeutic strategy for tissue regeneration and wound repair via effective recruitment of functional Tregs through ROS‐triggered on‐demand delivery.
Patterning Magnonic Structures via Laser Induced Crystallization of Yittrium Iron Garnet
Authors: Giacco Andrea Del , Maspero Federico , Levati Valerio , Vitali Matteo , Albisetti Edoardo , Petti Daniela , Brambilla Luigi , Polewczyk Vincent , Vinai Giovanni , Panaccione Giancarlo , Silvani Raffaele , Madami Marco , Tacchi Silvia , Dreyer Rouven , Lake Stephanie R. , Woltersdorf Georg , Schmidt Georg , Bertacco Riccardo
Published: February 2024

The fabrication and integration of high‐quality structures of Yttrium Iron Garnet (YIG) is critical for magnonics. Films with excellent properties are obtained only on single crystal Gadolinium Gallium Garnet (GGG) substrates using high‐temperature processes. The subsequent realization of magnonic structures via lithography and etching is not straightforward as it requires a tight control of the edge roughness, to avoid magnon scattering, and planarization in case of multilayer devices. In this work a different approach is described based on local laser annealing of amorphous YIG films, avoiding the need for subjecting the entire sample to high thermal budgets and for physical etching. Starting from amorphous and paramagnetic YIG films grown by pulsed laser deposition at room temperature on GGG, a 405 nm laser is used for patterning arbitrary shaped ferrimagnetic structures by local crystallization. In thick films (160 nm) the laser induced surface corrugation prevents the propagation of spin‐wave modes in patterned conduits. For thinner films (80 nm) coherent propagation is observed in 1.2 µm wide conduits displaying an attenuation length of 5 µm that is compatible with a damping coefficient of ≈5 × 10−3. Possible routes to achieve damping coefficients compatible with state‐of‐the art epitaxial YIG films are discussed.
Harnessing a Vibroacoustic Mode for Enabling Smart Functions on Surface Acoustic Wave Devices ‐ Application to Icing Monitoring and Deicing
Authors: Karimzadeh Atefeh , Weissker Uhland , del Moral Jaime , Winkler Andreas , Borrás Ana , González‐Elipe Agustin R. , Jacob Stefan
Published: February 2024

Microacoustic wave devices are essential components in the radio frequency (RF) electronics and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) industry with increasing impact in various sensing and actuation applications. Reliable and smart operation of acoustic wave devices at low costs will cause a crucial advancement. Herein, this study presents the enablement of temperature and mechanical sensing capabilities in a Rayleigh‐mode standing surface acoustic wave (sSAW) chip device by harnessing an acoustic shear‐thickness dominant wave (SD) using the same set of electrodes. Most importantly, this mode is excited by switching the polarity of the sSAW transducer electrodes by simple electronics, allowing for direct and inexpensive compatibility with an existing setup. The method in the emergent topic of surface de‐icing is validated by continuously monitoring temperature and liquid–solid water phase changes using the SD mode, and on‐demand Rayleigh‐wave deicing with a negligible energy cost. The flexibility for adapting the system to different scenarios, and loads and the potential for scalability opens the path to impact in lab‐on‐a‐chip, internet of things (IoT) technology, and sectors requiring autonomous acoustic wave actuators.
Biofilm Microenvironment Activated Antibiotic Adjuvant for Implant‐Associated Infections by Systematic Iron Metabolism Interference
Authors: Ding Jianing , Wang Xin , Liu Wei , Ding Cheng , Wu Jianrong , He Renke , Zhang Xianlong
Published: February 2024

Hematoma, a risk factor of implant‐associated infections (IAIs), creates a Fe‐rich environment following implantation, which proliferates the growth of pathogenic bacteria. Fe metabolism is a major vulnerability for pathogens and is crucial for several fundamental physiological processes. Herein, a deferiprone (DFP)‐loaded layered double hydroxide (LDH)‐based nanomedicine (DFP@Ga‐LDH) that targets the Fe‐rich environments of IAIs is reported. In response to acidic changes at the infection site, DFP@Ga‐LDH systematically interferes with bacterial Fe metabolism via the substitution of Ga3+ and Fe scavenging by DFP. DFP@Ga‐LDH effectively reverses the Fe/Ga ratio in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, causing comprehensive interference in various Fe‐associated targets, including transcription and substance metabolism. In addition to its favorable antibacterial properties, DFP@Ga‐LDH functions as a nano‐adjuvant capable of delaying the emergence of antibiotic resistance. Accordingly, DFP@Ga‐LDH is loaded with a siderophore antibiotic (cefiderocol, Cefi) to achieve the antibacterial nanodrug DFP@Ga‐LDH‐Cefi. Antimicrobial and biosafety efficacies of DFP@Ga‐LDH‐Cefi are validated using ex vivo human skin and mouse IAI models. The pivotal role of the hematoma‐created Fe‐rich environment of IAIs is highlighted, and a nanoplatform that efficiently interferes with bacterial Fe metabolism is developed. The findings of the study provide promising guidance for future research on the exploration of nano‐adjuvants as antibacterial agents.
Exploring the Potential of Colloidal Quantum Dots for Near‐Infrared to Short‐Wavelength Infrared Applications
Authors: Shin Daekwon , Park Youngsang , Jeong Hyeonjun , Tran Ha‐Chi V. , Jang Eunji , Jeong Sohee
Published: February 2024

Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) are powerful components for next‐generation infrared (IR) optoelectronic devices owing to their confinement‐based bandgap‐tunability, cost‐efficiency, and solution‐processability. The strong absorption feature of CQDs from the near‐infrared to short‐wavelength infrared renders them ideal as absorbers in both photovoltaics (PVs) and photodetectors (PDs). To effectively integrate CQDs into these devices, a better understanding of their film properties and a refined approach to material and device architecture are essential. Additionally, compliance with environmental standards for the material design presents a challenge for their widespread application. Therefore, the essential characteristics of CQD films to design optimal IR harvesting optoelectronics are highlighted, for instance, the spectral range, doping polarity/concentration, and energy levels. Subsequently, recent advancements in CQD‐based tandem PVs are explored, covering the key considerations in the fabrication of two‐terminal devices and strategies for enhancing the power‐conversion‐efficiency of large‐sized CQD‐based PVs. The study then explored a CQD‐based photodetector, highlighting the approaches for reducing the dark current and improving the external‐quantum‐efficiency, and the recent progress in Pb‐free CQD PDs is discussed. Finally, the perspectives regarding the current challenges and future directions that are critical for advancing the field of PV and PD are presented.