bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peripheral Polyneuropathy and Female Sexual Dysfunction—Familial Amyloidotic Polyneuropathy as an Example Besides Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Oliveira-e-Silva Tania , Campos Pinheiro Luis , Rocha Mendes Jorge , Barroso Eduardo , Monteiro Pereira Nuno
Published: December 2012

Introduction

Female sexual dysfunction (FSD) in peripheral polyneuropathies besides diabetes mellitus is still a poorly studied subject. Little is known about sexual function in women with amyloidosis, Guillain–Barré syndrome, or porphyria. Even for the world's most common peripheral polyneuropathies such as diabetes mellitus, knowledge and consensus are still lacking. Familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP) is the most common cause of genetic systemic amyloidosis, with neurological clinical manifestations similar to diabetes mellitus. Until today, no study on the sexual function of these young female patients has been published.

Aim

To evaluate FSD in female FAP patients and to compare the results with those of healthy, non-FAP females.

Methods

A questionnaire-based, observational study comprising 94 nonmenopausal women with a sexual partner (51 FAP and 43 non-FAP as the control group) was conducted. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI)—Portuguese-validated version was used to assess FSD.

Main Outcome Measures

Total and subscales scores of the FSFI.

Results

FSD was reported by 42% (95% confidence intervals [CI] 28.3–55.7) of FAP patients compared to 12% of healthy controls. Of all the FAP patients, 39.2% reported problems with desire (95% CI 25.6–52.4), 72.5% reported problems with arousal (95% CI 60.2–84.8), 68% reported lubrication problems (95% CI 55.1–80.9), 62% reported orgasm problems (95% CI 48.5–75.5), 39.2% experienced pain (95% CI, 25.8–52.6), and 49% experienced sexual dissatisfaction (95% CI, 35.3–62.7).

Even after multiple logistic regression analysis, FAP is associated with sexual dysfunction in women (OR 4.3, 95% CI 1.2–15.5, P < 0.03), and the affected domains are desire (OR 5.1, 95% CI 1.3–19.7, P < 0.02), arousal (OR 4.7, 95% CI 1.5–14.1, P < 0.007), orgasm (OR 5, 95% CI 1.6–16, P < 0.007), and sexual satisfaction (OR 4.8, 95% CI 1.4–16.9, P < 0.02). Only the use of medication with potential for sexual dysfunction was found as a significant predictor of orgasm disorder (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.1–15.6, P < 0.03), as did age for sexual dissatisfaction (OR 1.1, 95% CI 1.0–1.2, P < 0.04).

Conclusions

FAP as a peripheral polyneuropathy results in FSD, presenting a risk factor four times greater and related to disease severity in terms of desire, arousal, and orgasm disorders, as well as sexual dissatisfaction.
Descriptive analysis of Iranian adolescents' stages of change for physical activity behavior
Authors: Sanaeinasab Hormoz , Saffari Mohsen , Nazeri Mojtaba , Karimi Zarchi Aliakbar , Cardinal Bradley J.
Published: December 2012

To better understand prevalence of physical inactivity among Iranian adolescents, their physical activity behavior across the hypothesized stages of change derived from the transtheoretical model was investigated in this study. This was a cross‐sectional study involving 1551 adolescents, 12–14 years of age (941 boys and 610 girls). Participants were selected through a multistage sampling method. The child/adolescent activity log, physical activity calendar, and stage of change scale were used for collecting data. Data were analyzed using χ2 and F‐tests. Depending on how physical activity was assessed, the prevalence of physical inactivity ranged from 77.4% to 87.1%. Analyses revealed sex and stages of change differences between those who achieved and those who did not achieve the recommended levels of moderate‐to‐vigorous‐intensity physical activity. Girls were less active than boys. The distribution observed across the stages of change supports the need to improve the physical activity of Iranian youth, especially among girls. For interventions to be most effective, they will need to be tailored to the sex of the participants, as well as their specific stage of readiness to change.
Using family history and health risk behaviors to determine predictors of depressive symptoms in Central American immigrant mothers
Authors: Maradiegue Ann H. , Lyon Debra E. , Meyers Melanie F.
Published: December 2012

In this study, depressive symptomatology in Central American immigrant mothers with adolescent daughters living in the USA was explored. Using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Short Scale, the Family History Scale, an Acculturation Scale, and the core section of the Youth Conduct Disorder scale from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 101 Central American mothers were analyzed to identify predictors of depressive symptoms. Over one‐third of the participants had depressive symptoms. There were no significant findings for acculturation as a predictor of depressive symptoms. Predictors that related to depressive symptomatology were a positive family history of depression, marital status (divorced), and having a daughter engaged in health risk behaviors. Clinicians working with mothers from Central America should consider risk of depression, whether there is a family history of depression; and additional stresses, such as the health risk behaviors of adolescents. Unprecedented levels of immigration around the world underscore the importance of meeting the healthcare needs of culturally‐diverse groups.
Prediction of Blow-Offs of Bluff Body Stabilized Flames Utilizing Close-Coupled Injection of Liquid Fuels
Authors: Klusmeyer Alex , Cross Caleb , Lubarsky Eugene , Bibik Oleksandr , Shcherbik Dmitriy , Zinn Ben. T.
Published: December 2012

This paper describes the development of an empirical approach that attempts to predict blow-out of bluff body stabilized flames using global flow parameters in systems where liquid fuel injectors are located a short distance upstream of the wake. This approach was created on the hypothesis that flame stability in such a combustion system (referred to as a close-coupled injection) is determined by the strength of the heat source developed in the bluff body recirculation zone and by the availability of sufficient contact time with fresh mixture for its ignition, similar in nature to premixed combustion systems. Based on this concept, global equivalence ratio on the classical DeZubay stability map was replaced by local equivalence ratio in the recirculation zone of the bluff body. This local equivalence ratio was determined experimentally using a chemiluminescence measurement system. Tests were conducted using a single bluff body with a close-coupled injection system in a 76 × 152 mm (3 × 6 in.) combustion tunnel. A wide range of fuel–air ratios and velocities were achieved by variation of the global equivalence ratio, incoming flow velocity, and injector size. The obtained experimental dataset was used to develop a transfer function that allowed calculation of the local equivalence ratio in the recirculation zone based on the global flow parameters. Equivalence ratio in the recirculation zone was found to be exponentially dependent upon the square root of the fuel to air momentum flux ratio such that increasing the momentum flux ratio led to a reduction in the recirculation zone equivalence ratio. Additional adjustment of this general trend by the diameter of injector and air flow velocity was necessary to improve the quality of the prediction. The developed approach demonstrated a good prediction of the globally rich blow-out of the flame. In fact, the recirculation zone lean blow-out limit (corresponding with globally rich blow-out) predicted for close coupled injection using the developed transfer function closely coincided with the lean blow-out line of the classical DeZubay envelope and with results obtained with premixed injection using the same bluff body. On the contrary, globally lean (locally rich) blow-out was predicted ∼20% below the DeZubay rich blow-out line, possibly because of the limited range of the fuel flow rates on the experimental rig used.
Oct4 Connects Akt to Cancerous Stem Cells
Authors: Andrianantoandro Ernesto
Published: December 2012

Akt promotes its own expression, cell survival, and tumorigenicity in embryonal carcinoma cells by phosphorylating Oct4.
Antigenic Vitamins
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: December 2012

Specific forms of vitamin B produced by microbes are recognized by the antigen-presenting receptor MR1 and activate the immune response in the gut.
Decreased Tonic Inhibition in Cerebellar Granule Cells Causes Motor Dysfunction in a Mouse Model of Angelman Syndrome
Authors: Egawa Kiyoshi , Kitagawa Kyoko , Inoue Koichi , Takayama Masakazu , Takayama Chitoshi , Saitoh Shinji , Kishino Tatsuya , Kitagawa Masatoshi , Fukuda Atsuo
Published: December 2012

Ube3a deficiency causes a decrease in cerebellar tonic inhibition by preventing degradation of GABA transporter 1 in a mouse model of Angelman syndrome.
Streptococcus bovis endocarditis and colon cancer: myth or reality? A case report and literature review
Authors: Galdy Salvatore , Nastasi Giuseppe
Published: December 2012

A relationship between infective endocarditis and colon cancer was established in 1950, andStreptococcus boviswas successfully isolated in 1970. However, this association and its pathogenesis still remain unclear. In this paper, we describe the clinical case of a patient with a history of colon cancer and infective endocarditis caused byStreptococcus bovis. The role ofS bovisas an aetiological agent in the development of colon cancer is intriguing but uncertain.S bovisinfection should be considered a silent sign of gastrointestinal malignancy or hepatic disease. We believe that in order to demonstrate the presence of colon cancer, all patients withS bovisinfection require an endoscopic investigation of the colon.
Physiological and morphological responses of invasiveAmbrosia artemisiifolia(common ragweed) to different irradiances
Authors: Qin Zhong , Mao Dan Juan , Quan Guo Ming , Zhang Jia-en , Xie Jun Fang , DiTommaso Antonio
Published: December 2012

Invasion by the exotic herb Ambrosia artemisiifolia L. has become a serious agricultural and environmental problem and of increasing research interest as the species continues its southward spread into subtropical regions of China. To better understand the possible physiological and morphological adaptations of A. artemisiifolia in this region, we conducted a greenhouse experiment using seedlings of A. artemisiifolia and a comparative native species, Urena lobata L. (Caesar’s weed), which is an erect annual shrub in the Malvaceae that commonly co-occurs with A. artemisiifolia in open, disturbed habitats in southern China. Seedlings of both plants were grown under four irradiance regimes (10%, 30%, 55%, and 100% irradiance) from 14 May to 13 July 2010. Ambrosia artemisiifolia showed significantly higher total biomass, total leaf area, specific leaf area, relative growth rate, and net assimilation rate but lower leaf mass fraction than U. lobata at the 30%–100% irradiance levels. With decreasing irradiance, A. artemisiifolia significantly increased biomass allocation to stems and decreased allocation to roots. Meanwhile, A. artemisiifolia exhibited higher light-saturated photosynthetic rates and light saturation points with wide variances except at the 10% irradiance treatment. These findings suggest that A. artemisiifolia has generally higher irradiance plasticity for traits pertaining to biomass partitioning, growth, and plant structure than U. lobata. The ability of A. artemisiifolia to tolerate high shade conditions while maintaining high growth rates at elevated irradiance levels may afford it a competitive advantage and may help explain its recent colonization and spread in southern China.
RESEARCH ON THE ADSORPTION OF O2 IN METAL–ORGANIC FRAMEWORKS WITH OPEN MANGANESE(II) COORDINATION SITES
Authors: WANG WEIKE , YANG JIANGFENG , LI LIBO , LI JINPING
Published: December 2012

Three different metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), specifically Mn2 (dobdc)(DMF)4 ( H2 dobdc=[2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid]; compound (1), Mn5 ( btac )4(μ3- OH )2( EtOH )2⋅ DMF⋅3EtOH⋅3H2O ( H2 btac=[benzotriaole-5-carboxylicacid]; compound (2), and Mn3 (2,6-ndc)3⋅4DMF ( H 2ndc=[2,6-naphthalenedicarbo-xylic acid]; compound (3), have been synthesized, the channels of which are lined with coordinatively unsaturated Mn II centers. The adsorption of O2 in these MOFs has been measured using a gravimetric method at different temperatures (-78°C, -5°C, and 25°C) at a pressure of 1 bar. Gas adsorption isotherms of compounds 1 and 2 at 298 K indicated that they bind O2 by chemisorption at low pressure, with capacities of 1.2 wt.% and 2.14 wt.%, respectively, for the first cycle, with reversible oxygen binding for compound 1 and partially irreversible oxidation for compound 2. However, compound 3 binds O2 by physisorption, with a capacity of just 0.21 wt.%. This difference between the three compounds stems from the different coordination environments of the respective Mn II centers, which give rise to differences in electron density. The results suggest that there must be an optimal electron density around the exposed Mn II center for partial charge transfer from this center to the bound O2 molecule; if the electron density is too high or too low, reversible chemisorption of O2 is not favored.
Design of Foods with Bioactive Lipids for Improved Health
Authors: Chen Bingcan , McClements David Julian , Decker Eric Andrew
Published: December 2012

Numerous studies have found an association between the consumption of certain bioactive lipids and improved human health, e.g., the prevention, delay, or treatment of chronic and acute diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease (CVD), osteoporosis, and immune disorders. In this review, we discuss food-based sources and potential beneficial attributes of major dietary bioactive lipids: polyunsaturated fatty acids; carotenoids; phytosterols and phytostanols; and fat-soluble vitamins. We summarize the various challenges associated with incorporating these bioactive lipids into foods and beverages, such as poor water solubility, high melting point, and low chemical stability. Finally, we propose several techniques that have been used to solve the challenges and integrate dietary bioactive lipids into foods for improved health.
Suppression of Instability on Sensing Signal of Optical Pulse Correlation Measurement in Remote Fiber Sensing
Authors: Kobayashi Hirokazu , Tsuzuki Toshimasa , Onishi Toshitake , Masaoka Yuhei , Xu Xunjian , Nonaka Koji
Published: December 2012

Optical fiber sensing has the potential to overcome weak points of traditional electric sensors. Many types of optical fiber sensors have been proposed according to the modulation parameter of incident light. We have proposed an optical pulse correlation sensing system that focuses on the time drift values of the propagating optical pulses to monitor the temperature- or strain-induced extension along the optical fiber in the sensing region. In this study, we consider the instability in the optical pulse correlation sensing system applied to remote monitoring over a kilometer-long distance. We introduce a method to stabilize the instability of the pulse correlation signal resulting from the time drift fluctuation along a transmission line. By using this method, we can purify the response and improve the accuracy of signals at the focused sensing regions. We also experimentally demonstrate remote temperature monitoring over a 30 km-long distance using a remote reference technique, and we estimate the resolution and the measurable span of the temperature variation as(1.1/L)∘Cand(5.9×10/L)°C, respectively, whereLis the length of the fiber in the sensing region.
Sarcoidosis and Pain Caused by Small-Fiber Neuropathy
Authors: Heij Lara , Dahan Albert , Hoitsma Elske
Published: December 2012

Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory illness and small-fiber neuropathy (SFN) is one of the disabling and often chronic manifestations of the disease. SFN presents with peripheral pain and symptoms of autonomic dysfunction. The character of the pain can be burning or shooting. Besides, allodynia and hyperesthesia can exist. Diagnosis is usually made on the basis of clinical features, in combination with abnormal specialized tests. The aim of treatment is often to reduce pain; however, total pain relieve is seldom achieved. The role of TNF-α in the pathogenesis of SFN in sarcoidosis appears interesting to explore. Novel therapeutic agents such as ARA 290, a nonhematopoietic erythropoietin analogue with potent anti-inflammatory and tissue protective properties, are interesting to explore in the treatment of SFN in sarcoidosis.
Heavy-Tailed Prediction Error: A Difficulty in Predicting Biomedical Signals of1/fNoise Type
Authors: Li Ming , Zhao Wei , Chen Biao
Published: December 2012

A fractal signalx(t)in biomedical engineering may be characterized by1/fnoise, that is, the power spectrum density (PSD) divergences atf=0. According the Taqqu’s law,1/fnoise has the properties of long-range dependence and heavy-tailed probability density function (PDF). The contribution of this paper is to exhibit that the prediction error of a biomedical signal of1/fnoise type is long-range dependent (LRD). Thus, it is heavy-tailed and of1/fnoise. Consequently, the variance of the prediction error is usually large or may not exist, making predicting biomedical signals of1/fnoise type difficult.
Double Duct to Mucosa Pancreaticojejunostomy for Bifid Pancreatic Duct following Pylorus Preserving Pancreaticoduodenectomy: A Case Report
Authors: Vasiliadis K. , Papavasiliou C. , Lamprou N. , Delivorias P. , Papaioannou S. , Karagiannidis A. , Makridis C.
Published: December 2012

Bifid pancreatic duct represents a relatively rare anatomical variation of the pancreatic ductal system, in which the main pancreatic duct is bifurcated along its length. This paper describes the challenging surgical management of a 68-year-old male patient, with presumptive diagnosis of periampullary malignancy who underwent a successful double duct to mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy for bifid pancreatic duct. Following pylorus preserving pancreaticoduodenectomy, careful intraoperative inspection of the cut surface of the residual dorsal pancreas identified the main in addition to the secondary pancreatic duct orifice. Bifid duct anatomy was confirmed via intraoperative probing and direct visualization of the ductal orifices. A decision was made for the performance of an end-to-site double duct to mucosa pancreaticojejunostomy. Postoperative outcome was favorable without any complications. Although bifid pancreatic duct is relatively rare, pancreatic surgeons should be aware of this anatomical variation and be familiar with the surgical techniques for its successful management. Lack of knowledge and surgical expertise for dealing with this anatomical variant may lead to serious, life threatening postoperative complications following pancreatic resections.
In SilicoCharacterization of Histidine Acid Phytase Sequences
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Singh Gopal , Verma A. K. , Agrawal Sanjeev
Published: December 2012

Histidine acid phytases (HAPhy) are widely distributed enzymes among bacteria, fungi, plants, and some animal tissues. They have a significant role as an animal feed enzyme and in the solubilization of insoluble phosphates and minerals present in the form of phytic acid complex. A set of 50 reference protein sequences representing HAPhy were retrieved from NCBI protein database and characterized for various biochemical properties, multiple sequence alignment (MSA), homology search, phylogenetic analysis, motifs, and superfamily search. MSA using MEGA5 revealed the presence of conserved sequences at N-terminal “RHGXRXP” and C-terminal “HD.” Phylogenetic tree analysis indicates the presence of three clusters representing different HAPhy, that is, PhyA, PhyB, and AppA. Analysis of 10 commonly distributed motifs in the sequences indicates the presence of signature sequence for each class. Motif 1 “SPFCDLFTHEEWIQYDYLQSLGKYYGYGAGNPLGPAQGIGF” was present in 38 protein sequences representing clusters 1 (PhyA) and 2 (PhyB). Cluster 3 (AppA) contains motif 9 “KKGCPQSGQVAIIADVDERTRKTGEAFAAGLAPDCAITVHTQADTSSPDP” as a signature sequence. All sequences belong to histidine acid phosphatase family as resulted from superfamily search. No conserved sequence representing 3- or 6-phytase could be identified using multiple sequence alignment. Thisin silicoanalysis might contribute in the classification and future genetic engineering of this most diverse class of phytase.
Single Diabetic QTL Derived from OLETF Rat Is a Sufficient Agent for Severe Diabetic Phenotype in Combination with Leptin-Signaling Deficiency
Authors: Kose Hiroyuki , Yamada Takahisa , Matsumoto Kozo
Published: December 2012

Obesity has been considered one of the leading causative agents for diseases such as type 2 diabetes, stroke, and heart attack. Due to their complex etiology, establishing auseful animal model is increasingly crucial for better molecular understanding of how obesity influences on disease development. OLETF rat is a spontaneous model of type 2 diabetes. We mapped 14 hyperglycemia QTLs in the genome of the OLETF rat and subsequently generated a panel of congenic strains each possessing OB-R mutation in F344 genetic background. Here we show that one of the loci,Nidd2/of, is highly responsive to obesity. When leptin receptor mutation is introgressed into theNidd2/ofcongenic strain, the rat showed hyperglycemia equivalent to that of the parental OLETF rat. This suggests that theNidd2/oflocus has a strong genetic interaction with leptin signaling pathway. Furthermore, when another hyperglycemiaQTL Nidd1/ofis additionally combined, the strain developed overt diabetes. A single QTL dissected out in spontaneous model normally exerts only mild effect on the quantitative trait, which makes it difficult to clone the gene. Our new model may help not only to identify the causative gene but also to investigate how obesity interacts with a QTL to regulate diabetic traits.
Dantrolene-Induced Inhibition of Skeletal L-Type Ca2+Current Requires RyR1 Expression
Authors: Bannister R. A.
Published: December 2012

Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a pharmacogenetic disorder most often linked to mutations in the type 1 ryanodine receptor (RyR1) or the skeletal L-type Ca2+channel (CaV1.1). The only effective treatment for an MH crisis is administration of the hydantoin derivative Dantrolene. In addition to reducing voltage induced Ca2+release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum, Dantrolene was recently found to inhibit L-type currents in developing myotubes by shifting the voltage-dependence of CaV1.1 channel activation to more depolarizing potentials. Thus, the purpose of this study was to obtain information regarding the mechanism of Dantrolene-induced inhibition of CaV1.1. A mechanism involving a general depression of plasma membrane excitability was excluded because the biophysical properties of skeletal muscle Na+current in normal mouse myotubes were largely unaffected by exposure to Dantrolene. However, a role for RyR1 was evident as Dantrolene failed to alter the amplitude, voltage dependence and inactivation kinetics of L-type currents recorded fromdyspedic(RyR1 null) myotubes. Taken together, these results suggest that the mechanism of Dantrolene-induced inhibition of the skeletal muscle L-type Ca2+current is related to altered communication between CaV1.1 and RyR1.
Comparison of Informal Care Time and Costs in Different Age-Related Dementias: A Review
Authors: Costa Nadège , Ferlicoq Laura , Derumeaux-Burel Hélène , Rapp Thomas , Garnault Valérie , Gillette-Guyonnet Sophie , Andrieu Sandrine , Vellas Bruno , Lamure Michel , Grand Alain , Molinier Laurent
Published: December 2012

Objectives. Age-related dementia is a progressive degenerative brain syndrome whose prevalence increases with age. Dementias cause a substantial burden on society and on families who provide informal care. This study aims to review the relevant papers to compare informal care time and costs in different dementias.Methods. A bibliographic search was performed on an international medical literature database (MEDLINE). All studies which assessed the social economic burden of different dementias were selected. Informal care time and costs were analyzed in three care settings by disease stages.Results. 21 studies met our criteria. Mean informal care time was 55.73 h per week for Alzheimer disease and 15.8 h per week for Parkinson disease (P=0.0076), and the associated mean annual informal costs were $17,492 versus $3,284, respectively (P=0.0393).Conclusion. There is a lack of data about informal care time and costs among other dementias than AD or PD. Globally, AD is the most costly in terms of informal care costs than PD, $17,492 versus $3,284, respectively.
Effect of Cardiac Stem Cells on Left-Ventricular Remodeling in a Canine Model of Chronic Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Welt Frederick G.P. , Gallegos Robert , Connell John , Kajstura Jan , D’Amario Domenico , Kwong Raymond Y. , Coelho-Filho Otavio , Shah Ravi , Mitchell Richard , Leri Annarosa , Foley Lori , Anversa Piero , Pfeffer Marc A.
Published: December 2012

Background—

Regenerative medicine, including cell therapy, is a promising strategy for recovery of the damaged myocardium. C-kit–positive cardiac stem cells (CSCs) have been shown to improve myocardial function after ischemic injury in animal models and in early clinical experience. We used a chronic large animal model of myocardial infarction with substantial reductions in left-ventricular (LV) ejection fraction and adverse remodeling to examine the effect of late autologous CSC intramyocardial injection on long-term cardiac structure and function.

Methods and Results—

Thoracotomy and ligation of the proximal left anterior descending artery, additional diagonal branches, and atrial biopsy for CSC culture were performed in canines. Baseline cardiac MRI was performed at 6 weeks postinfarct followed by repeat thoracotomy for randomization to intramyocardial injection of CSCs (n=13) or vehicle alone (n=6). At 30 weeks postmyocardial infarction, repeat MRI was performed. Data were analyzed using nonparametric tests (Wilcoxon signed-rank and rank-sum tests). In control animals, LV end-systolic volume and end-diastolic volume increased from 6 to 30 weeks (median and interquartile range, 51.3 mL [43.3–57.4] to 76.1 mL [72.0–82.4];
P
=0.03 and 78.5 mL [69.7–86.1] to 99.2 mL [97.1–100.4];
P
=0.03). Left-ventricular ejection fraction declined further (35.2% [27.9–38.7] to 26.4% [22.0–31.0];
P
=0.12). In the cell-treated animals, this late adverse LV remodeling was attenuated (LV end-systolic volume, 42.6 mL [38.5–50.5] to 56.1 mL [50.3–63.0];
P
=0.01 versus control). There was a nonsignificant attenuation in the increase in LV end-diastolic volume (64.8 mL [60.7–71.3] to 83.5 mL [74.7–90.8];
P
=0.14 versus control) and LV ejection fraction change over time differed (30.5% [28.4–33.4] to 32.9% [28.6–36.9];
P
=0.04 versus control).

Conclusions—

Intramyocardial injection of autologous CSCs in a late phase model of chronic infarction resulted in less increase in LV end-systolic volume and preservation of LV ejection fraction.
Attenuated Desensitization of β-Adrenergic Receptor by Water-Soluble N-Nitrosamines That Induce S-Nitrosylation Without NO Release
Authors: Makita Noriko , Kabasawa Yoji , Otani Yuko , Firman  , Sato Junichiro , Hashimoto Makiko , Nakaya Michio , Nishihara Hiroaki , Nangaku Masaomi , Kurose Hitoshi , Ohwada Tomohiko , Iiri Taroh
Published: December 2012

Rationale:

The clinical problem of loss of β-adrenergic receptor (β-AR) response, both in the pathogenesis of heart failure and during therapeutic application of β-agonists, is attributable, at least in part, to desensitization, internalization, and downregulation of the receptors. In the regulation of β-AR signaling, G protein–coupled receptor kinase 2 (GRK2) primarily phosphorylates agonist-occupied β-ARs, and this modification promotes desensitization, internalization, and downregulation of β-ARs. It has been demonstrated that GRK2 is inhibited by its S-nitrosylation. However, compounds that induce S-nitrosylation, such as S-nitrosoglutathione, simultaneously generate NO, which has been demonstrated to operate for cardiovascular protection.

Objective:

We examine whether S-nitrosylation without NO generation inhibits desensitization of β
2
-AR by GRK2. We thus aim to synthesize compounds that specifically induce S-nitrosylation.

Methods and Results:

We have developed water-soluble N-nitrosamines that have S-nitrosylating activity but lack NO-generating activity. These compounds, at least partly, rescue β-AR from desensitization in HEK 293 cells expressing FLAG-tagged human β
2
-AR and in rat cardiac myocytes. They inhibit isoproterenol-dependent phosphorylation and internalization of β
2
-AR. Indeed, they nitrosylate GRK2 in vitro and in cells, and their S-nitrosylation of GRK2 likely underlies their inhibition of β
2
-AR desensitization.

Conclusions:

Compounds that induce S-nitrosylation without NO release inhibit GRK2 and attenuate β
2
-AR desensitization. Developing water-soluble drugs that specifically induce S-nitrosylation may be a promising therapeutic strategy for heart failure.
Their Own Best Teachers
Authors: Duke Robert A.
Published: December 2012

Skillful teachers have developed the ability to take learners from the first conception of a goal to its accomplishment in shorter and shorter periods of time, with fewer and fewer errors on the learners’ part and with increasing satisfaction and diminishing frustration on the teacher’s. This article deals with the extent to which teachers provide learners assistance in their struggles to accomplish goals. At times, teachers may provide more assistance than is actually required and, in so doing, inadvertently limit learners’ development over the long term.
Aural Skills
Authors: Hansen Dee , Milligan Sarah A.
Published: December 2012

Pressure on music educators to accommodate reading initiatives in their schools continues to challenge genuine music-learning experiences. Children are taken out of music classrooms for additional reading time, although mounting research informs us of the value of music as a formidable avenue for developing crucial auditory skills needed for successful reading. For this article, we gather research from four areas—neuroimaging, auditory brainstem response technology, music classrooms, and general education—and cite findings that, through these disparate domains, all point to the significance of aural skills development in children. Because music learning is based in aural skill development, we offer several instructional examples that strengthen phonological and phonemic awareness while honoring musical development in young children.
Gb’Clock Is Expressed in the Optic Lobe and Is Required for the Circadian Clock in the Cricket Gryllus bimaculatus
Authors: Moriyama Yoshiyuki , Kamae Yuichi , Uryu Outa , Tomioka Kenji
Published: December 2012

Reverse genetic studies have revealed that common clock genes, such as period ( per), timeless ( tim), cycle ( cyc), and Clock ( Clk), are involved in the circadian clock mechanism among a wide variety of insects. However, to what degree the molecular oscillatory mechanism is conserved is still to be elucidated. In this study, cDNA of the clock gene Clk was cloned in the cricket Gryllus bimaculatus, and its function was analyzed using RNA interference (RNAi). In adult optic lobes, the Clk mRNA level showed no significant rhythmic changes both under light-dark cycle (LD) and constant darkness (DD). A single injection of Clk double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) resulted in a knockdown of the mRNA level to about 25% of the peak level of control animals. The injected crickets lost their locomotor rhythms in DD. The arrhythmicity in locomotor activity persisted for up to 50 days after the Clk dsRNA injection. Control animals injected with DsRed2 dsRNA showed a clear locomotor rhythm like intact animals. Injection of Clk dsRNA not only suppressed the mRNA levels of both per and tim but also abolished their rhythmic expression. per RNAi down-regulates the Clk mRNA levels, suggesting that per is required for sufficient expression of Clk. These results suggest that Clk is an essential component and plays an important role in the cricket’s circadian clock machinery like in Drosophila, but regulation of its expression is probably different from regulation in Drosophila.
Tissue-Specific Interaction of Per1/2 and Dec2 in the Regulation of Fibroblast Circadian Rhythms
Authors: Tsang Anthony H. , Sánchez-Moreno Carmen , Bode Brid , Rossner Moritz J. , Garaulet Marta , Oster Henrik
Published: December 2012

In mammals, the molecular circadian clockwork is comprised of interlocked transcriptional-translational feedback loops (TTLs). Three Period ( Per1-3) and 2 Dec ( Dec1/2) genes interact in regulating the activity of the transcriptional activators CLOCK/NPAS2 and BMAL1. While deletion of Per1 and Per2 in mice results in behavioral arrhythmicity, Dec deletion has less dramatic effects on activity rhythms, affecting primarily phase of entrainment and free-running period. In intact animals, clock gene mutant phenotypes are often masked due to intercellular coupling mechanisms that stabilize cellular rhythms. Therefore, to study Per/Dec genetic interaction at the cellular level, we isolated fibroblasts from different tissues of Per1, Per2, and Dec2 single and double mutant mice. We show that in the cellular TTL, Pers and Dec2 act in a principally synergistic way, but tissue-specific differences in this interaction are seen. A rescue of rhythmicity in Per2 mutant cells after additional deletion of Dec2 was observed, indicating that in the absence of Per2, DEC2 destabilizes TTL function. Rhythm power in Per1/Dec2 and Per2/Dec2 double mutants was strongly reduced, suggesting that interaction of Dec2 with both Per genes is important for stabilizing clock period. Contrary to what was observed for behavior, nonsynergistic effects of Dec2 and Per1/2 mutations were observed on cellular clock phase regulation that do not correlate with period effects. Our data reveal cell type-specific interactions of Per1/2 and Dec2 in the regulation of period, phase, and rhythm sustainment, emphasizing the differential organization of the mammalian clock machinery in different tissues.
Laboratory versus Nature
Authors: Menegazzi Pamela , Yoshii Taishi , Helfrich-Förster Charlotte
Published: December 2012

The daily pattern of animal behavior is thought to be of potential enormous importance for survival. Here, we compared the daily activity pattern of Drosophila melanogaster wild-type flies and the clock-impaired mutants, per01 and ClkJrk, under pseudo-natural conditions and laboratory conditions with natural-like temperature profiles. We found that clock-impaired flies respond stronger to changes in the environment, namely temperature increases, than wild-type flies. We hypothesize that the circadian clock may suppress unproductive activity in response to temperature fluctuations but that such suppression can be overcome in extreme conditions that are likely life-threatening for the flies. Thus, possessing a clock seems to be of adaptive significance.
Raynaud’s Phenomenon of the Nipple Associated with Labetalol Use
Authors: McGuinness Naomi , Cording Vicky
Published: December 2012

Raynaud’s phenomenon of the nipple is an unusual cause of severe nipple pain. Precipitants for Raynaud’s phenomenon of the nipple are known to be cold temperatures, caffeine, and emotional stress. Nipple pain is quoted as the most common cause of cessation of breastfeeding. It is important that lactation consultants and other health care professionals are aware of Raynaud’s phenomenon of the nipple and the treatment options available.

This is a case of a 37-year-old woman, Gravida 2, Para 1, who was first seen in the antenatal clinic at 34 weeks gestation. A diagnosis of Raynaud’s phenomenon of the nipple was made after she began taking labetalol for pregnancy-induced hypertension. The phenomenon had occurred in both of her previous pregnancies on commencing labetalol and resolved postnatally on cessation of the drug.

We aim to raise awareness of both the condition itself and the potential role of labetalol in the development of Raynaud’s phenomenon of the nipple.
Formulation for an optimal design problem of spur gear drive and its global optimization
Authors: Wan Zhong , Zhang ShaoJun
Published: December 2012

In this article, an optimal design problem of spur gear drive with a fixed load factor is formulated as a nonlinear optimization model. Three methods are presented to find the globally optimal design scheme on the structure of the spur gear pair. By suitable variable transformation, the constructed model is first converted into a linear program with mixed variables. By developing an algorithm of global optimization for solving a binary linear programming with mixed variables, all global optimal solutions are found for the original design problem. Taking into account the modification of the contact ratio factors, a specific global optimization method is provided to optimize the design of spur gear drive with soft tooth flank in a continuous variable space. On the basis of enumeration of the discrete variables and utilization of the monotonicity in the optimal model, another global optimization method is designed to search for the global optimal solutions in the mixed variable space, which does not depend upon whether the modification of contact ratio factor exists or not. Case studies are employed to demonstrate the validity and practicability of the constructed model and the proposed methods.
Cities feeding people: an update on urban agriculture in equatorial Africa
Authors: Lee-Smith Diana
Published: December 2012

For several decades, a diverse literature has claimed that urban agriculture has the potential for hunger and poverty alleviation. This article reviews empirical data from equatorial Africa that touch on this assertion, updating the work on the subject published in the mid-1990s. Research, largely from East Africa but also including Cameroon in West Central Africa, appearing in several recent and currently emerging publications is assessed and compared. The article attempts to quantify the extent of urban agriculture in several cities based on the proportion of urban households involved, and assesses its statistical and qualitative relationship to urban food and nutrition security as well as its complex relationship to poverty. The role of urban agriculture in closing eco-cycles is discussed in important new data from three cities on how organic solid waste is, or is not, being re-used. Recent efforts in policy-making in three East African cities are reviewed, prior to making a policy analysis. The article concludes that the scale and extent of urban agriculture is increasing with, or perhaps in excess of, urban growth according to available data, and that it is beneficial to human health as well as to hunger and poverty alleviation. Urban livestock production and land availability are particularly beneficial. Poverty alleviation through urban agriculture could be both better understood and supported by appropriate policy measures, since better-off households are currently benefiting more from urban agriculture than the majority of poor households. Nutrient cycling through urban agriculture is enhanced by small mixed crop—livestock farms, which are the “backbone of urban farming systems”. Recent policy measures emerging in the region suggest positive future direction.
Prioritizing climate change adaptation and local level resilience in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Roberts Debra
Published: December 2012

This paper describes the institutional and resource challenges and opportunities in getting different sectors in eThekwini Municipality (the local government responsible for planning and managing the city of Durban) to recognize and respond to their role in climate change adaptation. The Headline Climate Change Adaptation Strategy launched by the municipality in 2006 did not catalyze the development of sectoral plans or significantly influence the Integrated Development Plan, the key document through which the municipal government sets and implements development priorities. Possible causal factors for this include limited human and financial resources and more immediate and urgent development needs. To address the situation, the municipality’s Environmental Planning and Climate Protection Department encouraged and supported three pilot sectors to develop their own municipal adaptation plans. This more sectoral approach encouraged greater interaction among the sectors and provided each with a clearer understanding of their needs and roles from an adaptation perspective. It also highlighted how climate change adaptation could be used as a tool to address development priorities. This work will be extended through research into the cost-benefits of Durban being an “early adapter”. Work has also begun on community-based adaptation (including support for reforestation projects that provide “green jobs”) and on responses to slow onset disasters, food security and water constraints.
Integrating land tenure, infrastructure and water catchment management in São Paulo’s periphery: lessons from a gaming approach
Authors: Ducrot Raphaèle , Bueno Ana Karina , Barban Vilma , Reydon Bastiaan P
Published: December 2012

Much of São Paulo’s urban expansion is driven by the development of informal settlements on its periphery, which includes the catchment areas that provide important environmental services such as open space and catchments for drinking water reservoirs. In such areas, governance of land, water services and water resources, traditionally administered separately, are in fact interdependent. A role-playing game was built to explore the interactions between different actors (mayor, water company, district representatives and landowners of different types) in land tenure insecurity, water and sanitation infrastructure and pollution in the periphery of São Paulo. An assessment of the game sessions revealed the different points of view of local and institutional actors about the main issues and the possible negotiation arrangements. Institutional actors misunderstood the hierarchy and diversity of community actors’ preoccupations, which were related more to land tenure, access to public transport and other aspects such as health and education rather than to water and sanitation infrastructure. Institutional actors also failed to recognize how access to infrastructure and land tenure is shaped by power-based relationships. While community actors appreciated the game and felt that they had learned from the experiment, institutional actors were more critical. These discrepancies call into question the potential effectiveness of the legal, technical and institutional solutions that the institutional actors are promoting to address the pollution issue.
Civil society response to industrial contamination of groundwater in Durban, South Africa
Authors: Leonard Llewellyn , Pelling Mark
Published: December 2012

This paper seeks to map the extent to which civil society actors champion environmental justice in an industrial risk society. It examines the role of civil society actors in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in being able to perceive industrial risk and push local concerns in development processes. The paper draws on qualitative and empirical research for a local case study in Merebank, South Durban, to explore how civil society engaged to organize and respond to local groundwater contamination caused by the German multinational Bayer, and also influence construction of knowledge around risk. It examines civil society networking to organize collectively and subsequent responses to government and industry during the risk assessment and remediation process. The final section engages in a discussion of findings and draws some conclusions.
Can Emotion Regulation Change Political Attitudes in Intractable Conflicts? From the Laboratory to the Field
Authors: Halperin Eran , Porat Roni , Tamir Maya , Gross James J.
Published: December 2012

We hypothesized that an adaptive form of emotion regulation— cognitive reappraisal—would decrease negative emotion and increase support for conflict-resolution policies. In Study 1, Israeli participants were invited to a laboratory session in which they were randomly assigned to either a cognitive-reappraisal condition or a control condition; they were then presented with anger-inducing information related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Participants in the reappraisal condition were more supportive of conciliatory policies and less supportive of aggressive policies compared with participants in the control condition. In Study 2, we replicated these findings in responses to a real political event (the recent Palestinian bid for United Nations recognition). When assessed 1 week after training, participants trained in cognitive reappraisal showed greater support for conciliatory policies and less support for aggressive policies toward Palestinians compared with participants in a control condition. These effects persisted when participants were reassessed 5 months after training, and at both time points, negative emotion mediated the effects of reappraisal.
Computational extrapolation of turbine sealing effectiveness from test rig to engine conditions
Authors: Teuber Roy , Li Yan Sheng , Maltson John , Wilson Michael , Lock Gary D , Owen J Michael
Published: December 2012

The commercial computational fluid dynamics code ANSYS CFX 12.1 has been employed to carry out unsteady Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes computations to investigate the fluid mechanics of two different rim-seal geometries in a three-dimensional model of a turbine stage. The mainstream annulus, seal and wheel-space geometries are based on an experimental test rig used at the University of Bath. The calculated peak-to-trough pressure difference in the annulus, which is the main driving mechanism for ingestion, is in good agreement with experimental measurements. There is also a good agreement between the computed and measured swirl ratios in the wheel-space. Computed values of concentration-based sealing effectiveness are obtained over a range of sealing flow rates for both an axial clearance and a radial clearance rim seal. A good agreement with gas concentration measurements is found for the axial clearance seal over a certain range of sealing flow rates. Some under-prediction of the amount of ingestion for the radial clearance seal is obtained. The computed mainstream pressure coefficient increases progressively with mainstream Mach number in moving from quasi-incompressible experimental rig conditions to the compressible flow conditions encountered in engines. It is shown that the minimum sealing flow rate required to prevent ingestion increases as mainstream Mach number increases. A scaling method is proposed to allow sealing flow rates to prevent ingestion obtained from low Mach number experiments to be extrapolated to engine-representative conditions.