bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
5‐HT receptors as novel targets for optimizing pigmentary responses in dorsal skin melanophores of frog, Hoplobatrachus tigerinus
Authors: Ali Sharique A , Salim Saima , Sahni Tarandeep , Peter Jaya , Ali Ayesha S
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Biochemical identification of 5‐HT has revealed similar projection patterns across vertebrates. In CNS, 5‐HT regulates major physiological functions but its peripheral functions are still emerging. The pharmacology of 5‐HT is mediated by a diverse range of receptors that trigger different responses. Interestingly, 5‐HT receptors have been detected in pigment cells indicating their role in skin pigmentation. Hence, we investigated the role of this monoaminergic system in amphibian pigment cells, melanophores, to further our understanding of its role in pigmentation biology together with its evolutionary significance.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Pharmacological profiling of 5‐HT receptors was achieved using potent/selective agonists and antagonists. In vitro responses of melanophores were examined by Mean Melanophores Size Index assay. The melanophores of lower vertebrates are highly sensitive to external stimuli. The immediate cellular responses to drugs were defined in terms of pigment translocation within the cells.

KEY RESULTS 5‐HT exerted strong concentration‐dependent pigment dispersion at threshold dose of 1 × 10−6 g·mL−1. Specific 5‐HT1 and 5‐HT2 receptor agonists, sumatriptan and myristicin. also induced dose‐dependent dispersion. Yohimbine and metergoline synergistically antagonized sumatriptan‐mediated dispersion, whereas trazodone partially blocked myristicin‐induced dispersion. Conversely, 5‐HT3 and 5‐HT4 receptor agonists, 1 (3 chlorophenyl) biguanide (1,3 CPB) and 5‐methoxytryptamine (5‐MT), caused a dose‐dependent pigment aggregation. The aggregatory effect of 1,3 CPB was completely blocked by ondansetron, whereas L‐lysine partially blocked the effect of 5‐MT.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The results suggest that 5‐HT‐induced physiological effects are mediated via distinct classes of receptors, which possibly participate in the modulation of pigmentary responses in amphibian.
AMPK activator AICAR ameliorates ischaemia reperfusion injury in the rat kidney
Authors: Lempiäinen J , Finckenberg P , Levijoki J , Mervaala E
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Renal ischaemia/reperfusion (RI/R) injury is a major cause of acute kidney injury (AKI) and an important determinant of long‐term kidney dysfunction. AMP‐kinase and histone deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) regulate cellular metabolism and are activated during hypoxia. We investigated whether AMP‐kinase activator AICAR (5‐amino‐4‐imidazolecarboxamide riboside‐1‐β‐D‐ribofuranoside) ameliorates RI/R injury and whether SIRT1 is involved in the pathogenesis.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Eight‐week‐old Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups: (i) sham‐operated group; (ii) I/R group (40 min bilateral ischaemia followed by 24 h of reperfusion; (iii) I/R group + AICAR 50 mg·kg−1 i.v. given 60 min before operation; (iv). I/R group + AICAR 160 mg·kg−1 i.v; (v) I/R group + AICAR 500 mg·kg−1 i.v. Serum creatinine and urea levels were measured. Acute tubular necrosis (ATN), monocyte/macrophage infiltration and nitrotyrosine expression were scored. Kidney AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and SIRT1 expressions were measured.

KEY RESULTS Highest dose of AICAR decreased serum creatinine and urea levels, attenuated I/R injury‐induced nitrosative stress and monocyte/macrophage infiltration, and ameliorated the development of ATN. Kidney I/R injury was associated with decreased AMPK phosphorylation and a fivefold increase in kidney SIRT1 expression. AICAR increased pAMPK/AMPK ratio and prevented the I/R‐induced increase in renal SIRT1 expression.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS AICAR protects against the development of ATN after kidney I/R injury. Activators of kidney AMP kinase may thus represent a novel therapeutic approach to patients susceptible to AKI and to those undergoing kidney transplantation. The present study also suggests a role for SIRT1 in the pathogenesis of RI/R injury.
The increasing prevalence of serologic markers for syphilis among Chinese blood donors in 2008 through 2010 during a syphilis epidemic
Authors: Liu Jing , Huang Yi , Wang Jingxing , Guo Nan , Li Julin , Dong Xiangdong , Ma Hongli , Tiemuer Meiheili , Huang Mei , Wright David J. , Ness Paul , Shan Hua ,   NHLBI Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study‐II (REDS‐II), International Component
Published: February 2012

BACKGROUND: In China, the growing syphilis epidemic parallels the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) in the general population. This study evaluated the prevalence and incidence of serologic markers for syphilis among donors at five Chinese blood centers.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: We examined whole blood and apheresis donations collected from January 2008 through December 2010. Postdonation testing of syphilis was conducted using two different Treponema pallidum antibody enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kits. The prevalence of serologic markers for syphilis (%), and the rate of coinfection with HIV‐1/2, hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) were calculated. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted examining donor characteristics associated with positive syphilis serology. Seroconversion rate and syphilis incidence were estimated.

RESULTS: Of 801,511 donations, 60% were from first‐time donors and 40% were from repeat donors. There was a significant increase in syphilis serologic markers among first‐time donors with 0.41, 0.45, and 0.57% positivity over 3 years (p < 0.001). Approximately 2.8, 0.8, and 0.5% of HIV‐1/2–, HBV‐, and HCV‐positive donations also tested reactive for syphilis. Logistic regression results suggest that first‐time donors were nine times more likely to be syphilis positive than repeat donors. Higher syphilis positivity was associated with donors older than 25 years and with less education. Estimated incidence among repeat donations was 33 (95% confidence interval, 29‐39) per 100,000 person‐years.

CONCLUSION: The increase in syphilis serologic prevalence reflected the syphilis epidemic in the general population. Without screening, most of these syphilis‐positive donations would get into the blood supply. Thus, during a syphilis epidemic, continued syphilis screening of blood donations may be important to maintain blood safety and public health.
Community Support of Ethanol Plants: Does Local Ownership Matter?*
Authors: Bain Carmen , Prokos Anastasia , Liu Hexuan
Published: February 2012

Abstract

Drawing on data from six communities in Kansas and Iowa, we explore the factors that are related to community members' current levels of overall support for local ethanol plants. What are residents' opinions about the benefits and drawbacks of local ownership of ethanol plants? How does that awareness lead to overall support of plants? Our interest is to understand how perceptions of the negative effects of the plant on the local infrastructure and environment and positive effects on the local economy influence the relationship between local versus absentee ownership and people's overall support of the plant. We use chi‐square to test whether respondents' overall support is associated with the ownership of the plant (local versus absentee), and cumulative logit mixed‐effects models to explore the factors that explain the association between ownership and overall support. Findings suggest that community members are less likely to show high support for locally owned plants, and that the greater perceived negative effects of locally owned plants on the local infrastructure and environment helps explain residents' lower support of locally owned ethanol plants in their communities. We posit several explanations for why this might be the case.
Co‐Witness Influence on Children's Memory Reports: The Difference is in the Details1
Authors: ROOS AF HJELMSäTER EMMA , GRANHAG PäR ANDERS , STRöMWALL LEIF A.
Published: February 2012

This study examined the effect of social influence on children's witness reports, with respect to a number of details varying in centrality. Children (N = 115; age = 10 years, 4 months to 13 years, 8 months) were interviewed about a personally experienced event. Half of the children were interviewed together with a confederate who answered the interview questions before the child did, while the other half were interviewed alone. Children were influenced by the confederate's answers to withhold some critical details observed (omission errors), but not to add details not observed (commission errors). When the children were asked to follow up on their reports, truthful reports contained more information than did false reports.
Myosin VI Regulates Actin Dynamics and Melanosome Biogenesis
Authors: Loubéry Sylvain , Delevoye Cédric , Louvard Daniel , Raposo Graça , Coudrier Evelyne
Published: February 2012

Myosin VI has been implicated in various steps of organelle dynamics. However, the molecular mechanism by which this myosin contributes to membrane traffic is poorly understood. Here, we report that myosin VI is associated with a lysosome‐related organelle, the melanosome. Using an actin‐based motility assay and video microscopy, we observed that myosin VI does not contribute to melanosome movements. Myosin VI expression regulates instead the organization of actin networks in the cytoplasm. Using a cell‐free assay, we showed that myosin VI recruited actin at the surface of isolated melanosomes. Myosin VI is involved in the endocytic‐recycling pathway, and this pathway contributes to the transport of a melanogenic enzyme to maturing melanosomes. We showed that depletion of myosin VI accumulated a melanogenic enzyme in enlarged melanosomes and increased their melanin content. We confirmed the requirement of myosin VI to regulate melanosome biogenesis by analysing the morphology of melanosomes in choroid cells from of the Snell's waltzer mice that do not express myosin VI. Together, our results provide new evidence that myosin VI regulates the organization of actin dynamics at the surface of a specialized organelle and unravel a novel function of this myosin in regulating the biogenesis of this organelle.
Genetic variations of interleukin‐8, CXCR1 and CXCR2 genes and risk of acute pyelonephritis in children
Authors: Javor J. , Bucova M. , Cervenova O. , Kralinsky K. , Sadova E. , Suchankova M. , Liptakova A.
Published: February 2012

Acute pyelonephritis (APN) is the most severe form of urinary tract infection, the etiopathogenesis of which is still not well understood. Previous studies demonstrated that chemotaxis of neutrophils into the tissue and across the infected epithelial layer is a key step in rapid bacterial clearance. Variations within genes encoding the major chemokine interleukin‐8 and its receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 are therefore attractive candidates for participation in genetic predisposition to APN. The aim of our study was to evaluate the association of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) −251 T/A, +781 C/T, +1633 C/T and +2767 A/T in the IL‐8 gene, +2608 G/C in the CXCR1 gene and +1208 C/T in the CXCR2 gene with susceptibility to APN in the Slovak population. PCR–SSP and PCR–RFLP were used to genotype SNPs in 147 children with APN (62 with recurrent and 85 with episodic form) and 215 healthy individuals. Statistical analysis revealed significantly increased frequency of CXCR1 +2608 C allele (P = 0.0238, OR = 2.452, 95% CI = 1.147–5.243) and GC genotype (P = 0.0201, OR = 2.627, 95% CI = 1.188–5.810) and lower frequency of CXCR2 +1208 T allele (P = 0.0408, OR = 0.645, 95% CI = 0.429–0.972) and TT+TC genotypes (P = 0.0497, OR = 0.5273, 95% CI = 0.288–0.964) in patients with recurrent APN compared with healthy controls. Furthermore, the A allele of IL‐8 −251 T/A SNP was also significantly overrepresented in patients with recurrent APN when compared with those with only single episode of APN (P = 0.0439, OR = 1.627, 95% CI = 1.019–2.599). Our results indicate that the minor CXCR1 +2608 C allele is associated with significantly increased susceptibility to APN in childhood, while the CXCR2 +1208 T allele confers protection from recurrent APN. Moreover, allele A of the IL‐8 −251 T/A may also increase the risk of developing recurrent attacks after the first‐time APN.
Autonomic Regulation on the Stroop Predicts Reading Achievement in School Age Children
Authors: Becker Derek R. , Carrère Sybil , Siler Chelsea , Jones Stephanie , Bowie Bonnie , Cooke Cheryl
Published: February 2012

In this study we examined high frequency heart rate variability (HF‐HRV, a parasympathetic index) both at rest and during challenge, to assess if variations in cardiovascular activity measured during a Stroop task could be used to predict reading achievement in typically developing children. Reading achievement was examined using the Peabody Individual Achievement Test–Revised. Results showed that greater HF‐HRV suppression during both the Stroop word and Stroop word–color conflict tasks was associated with better reading achievement. Higher basal levels of HF‐HRV did not predict better reading scores. These results are among the first to show a link between HF‐HRV and reading achievement in a normative school age population, and offer new insight into the association between cognitive activity and autonomic regulation of the heart.
SHRIMP Geochronology of Volcanics of the Zhangjiakou and Yixian Formations, Northern Hebei Province, with a Discussion on the Age of the Xing'anling Group of the Great Hinggan Mountains and Volcanic Strata of the Southeastern Coastal Area of China
Authors: Baogui NIU , Zhengjun HE , Biao SONG , Jishun REN , Liwei XIAO
Published: February 2012

Abstract  A zircon U‐Pb geochronological study on the volcanic rocks reveals that both of the Zhangjiakou and Yixian Formations, northern Hebei Province, are of the Early Cretaceous, with ages of 135–130 Ma and 129–120 Ma, respectively. It is pointed out that the ages of sedimentary basins and volcanism in the northern Hebei ‐western Liaoning area become younger from west to east, i. e. the volcanism of the Luanping Basin commenced at c. 135 Ma, the Luotuo Mount area of the Chengde Basin c. 130 Ma, and western Liaoning c. 128 Ma. With a correlation of geochronological stratigraphy and biostratigraphy, we deduce that the Xing'anling Group, which comprises the Great Hinggan Mountains volcanic rock belt in eastern China, is predominantly of the early‐middle Early Cretaceous, while the Jiande and Shimaoshan Groups and their equivalents, which form the volcanic rock belt in the southeastern coast area of China, are of the mid‐late Early Cretaceous, and both the Jehol and Jiande Biotas are of the Early Cretaceous, not Late Jurassic or Late Jurassic‐Early Cretaceous. Combining the characteristics of the volcanic rocks and, in a large area, hiatus in the strata of the Late Jurassic or Late Jurassic‐early Early Cretaceous between the formations mentioned above and the underlying sequences, we can make the conclusion that, in the Late Jurassic‐early Early Cretaceous, the eastern China region was of high relief or plateau, where widespread post‐orogenic volcanic series of the Early Cretaceous obviously became younger from inland in the west to continental margin in the east. This is not the result of an oceanward accretion of the subduction belt between the Paleo‐Pacific ocean plate and the Asian continent, but rather reflects the extension feature, i.e. after the closure of the Paleo‐Pacific ocean, the Paleo‐Pacific ancient continent collided with the Asian continent and reached the peak of orogenesis, and then the compression waned and resulted in the retreating of the post‐orogenic extension from outer orogenic zone to inner part (or collision zone). The determination of the eruption age of the volcanics of the Zhangjiakou Formation definitely constrains the switch period, which began in the Indosinian and finished in the Yanshanian, that is, 140–135 Ma. The switch is concretely the change from the approximate E‐W Paleo‐Asian tectonic system to the NE to NNE Pacific system, and the period is also the apex of a continent‐continent collision and orogenesis of subduction, being consumed and eventually disappearing of the Paleo‐Pacific ancient continent, and all the processes commenced in the Indosinian. While the following post‐orogenic large‐scale eruption in the Early Cretaceous marks the final completeness of the Paleo‐Pacific structure dynamics system.
Characteristics and Tectonic Significance of the Gravity Field in South China
Authors: Yafen YAN , Guangjie WANG , Zhongjie ZHANG
Published: February 2012

Abstract  Based on gravity data processed with the matched filter, depth continuation and horizontal gradient we obtained the spatial distribution of the gravity field and made analyses of the tectonic framework of South China. Then, inversion was conducted for the depth to study the depth variation of the boundary between the crust and upper mantle, namely the Mohorovicic discontinuity (Moho). The results demonstrate that the Moho depth in South China ranges from 30 to 40 km, and the crust thins from west to east, 27–29 km under the continent margin and shallow sea. We think it possible that the Tanlu fault crosses the Yangtze River and extends southwards along the Ganjiang and Wuchuan‐Sihui faults to the South China Sea, and that there is an E‐W hidden structural belt along 24.5°–26°.
The Influence of the Stiffness and Damping Properties of the Elastic Support on a Wave Journal Bearing Sleeve Motion
Authors: Ene Nicoleta M. , Dimofte Florin
Published: February 2012

The motion of a wave bearing sleeve exposed at a differential pressure at the axial ends and supported by an elastic element is considered in this paper. The influence of the stiffness and damping properties of the elastic element and of the wave amplitude on the sleeve motion is analyzed. It was found that the wave amplitude ratio and the damping of the elastic element support have an important influence on the dynamic behavior of the wave bearing. The stiffness of the elastic support does not significantly affect the bearing behavior.
Wear Evaluation of Different Polymeric Materials for Total Disc Replacement (TDR)
Authors: Singh Vaneet , Ogden Cindy , Sitton Kenny
Published: February 2012

In this study, we evaluated the wear of different polymeric materials. The temperatures were also monitored near the articulating surfaces. Six pin-on-disc specimens made out from industrial grade Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), medical grade PEEK, Polyacetal, Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene, Polyetherimide, and Polyphenylene Sulfide. The specimens were tested under ± 8° axial rotation and constant compressive load ranging from 50N–444N. The results of study show an increase in the wear and temperature with increased load. The PEEK-on-UHMWPE material combination outperformed all other tested material combinations in terms of volumetric wear.
Design and Test of a Tilting Pad Bearing for a High Speed Turbocharger
Authors: Kirk R. Gordon , Morgan Brandon , Midkiff Michael , Thompson Jordan
Published: February 2012

It is well known that the standard bearing for high speed turbochargers is a floating ring design. This design typically results in a limit cycle instability with larger than desired overall vibration response. The desire would be to have a small synchronous vibration that would allow the bearing to have less side leakage and higher performance. This paper will introduce a newly developed concept for a tilting segment bearing to replace the current stock floating ring bearing. Analysis of this new bearing shows great promise of improved stability. The result of the initial testing for this new design is presented in this paper.
Wear Mechanisms of PTFE in Humidified Hydrogen Gas
Authors: Nakashima Kazuhiro , Morillo Carlos , Kurono Yoshie , Sawae Yoshinori , Sugimura Joichi
Published: February 2012

PTFE is used as sealing material of machine elements in hydrogen utilizing machine systems, such as fuel cell vehicles and related infrastructures. It is necessary to know the tribological property of sealing materials in hydrogen gas to realize safety and reliability of machine elements operated in hydrogen environment. In this study, humidity in gases was focused on and its effects on the friction and wear of rubbing pair of PTFE pin and AISI 316L disk was investigated in pin-on-disk wear apparatus. The result indicated that the humidity in hydrogen gas had little effect on the friction coefficient between PTFE and AISI 316L. However, the specific wear rate of unfilled PTFE was clearly affected by the humidity. The amount of PTFE transfer film formed on the stainless surface gradually decreased with decreasing the humidity in hydrogen gas. The similar results could be obtained in inert argon gas as well. Water molecules remained in gaseous environments would be included in the formation process of PTFE transfer film affect on formation of PTFE transfer film. The humidity in hydrogen gas should be regulated to ensure the tribological behavior of the PTFE/stainless sliding pair being used in the hydrogen environment.
Study on the Surface Activity Parameters of Chosen Oils in the Aspect of Their Application to the Porous Sliding Bearing
Authors: Kro´l Artur , Giemza Bolesław , Kałdon´ski Tadeusz
Published: February 2012

In the article, the investigative results of the porous bearings and oil samples, with differed surface activity, are described. The analysis of the results showed the surface activity parameters were not well correlated with the moment of friction and the friction coefficient observed during the stand tests.
Tribology of Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites
Authors: Menezes Pradeep L. , Rohatgi Pradeep K. , Lovell Michael R.
Published: February 2012

In recent years, significant academic and industrial research and development has explored novel methods of creating green and environmentally friendly materials for commercial applications. Natural fibers offer the potential to develop lower cost products with better performance, sustainability, and renewability characteristics than traditional materials, particularly in the automotive industry. In this respect, natural fiber reinforced polymer composites have emerged as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective option to synthetic fiber reinforced composites. Hence, in this study, a review of the tribological behavior of natural fiber reinforced polymer composites has been undertaken to better understand their usability for various automotive applications.
Model Based Diagnostics for Gearboxes
Authors: Bryant Michael D. , Choi Jihoon
Published: February 2012

A model-based diagnostic to detect and assess faults is applied to gearboxes. Signals measured from a gearbox were compared to corresponding signals from simulations. The gearbox simulation model includes dynamics of input, lay and output shafts, gear bodies, bearings, and kinematics and tribology of gear tooth contacts. These were assembled into a systems model via bond graphs. To make simulations emulate measurements, the model’s parameters were “tuned”. A direct physical correspondence between parameters and real system elements locates faults. Considered was gear tooth cracking. Faults disturb normal flow of power and signal through a machine. Viewing the gearbox as a communications channel, and applying information theory theorems to the perturbed signals permitted assessment of the gearbox’s functional health.
Considering Ethics and the Responsible Conduct of Research in Tribology and in Engineering
Authors: Higgs C. F. , Braunschweiger P.
Published: February 2012

The scientific corpus in technical fields such tribology is not immune from the harm resulting from unethical research behavior, whether intentional or unintentional. When combining this with an increasingly competitive and globalized scientific arena, the research environment can become quite fertile grounds for spawning unethical research behavior. At the same time, the increasing speed of the dissemination of research results due to the various online publication formats has highlighted the need for honest and transparent publications. Primarily developed from research conduct training modules created by the second author and his team at the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI), this primer paper serves to illuminate the tenets of responsible research conduct for senior, mid-career and junior tribologists, in addition to scientists in related fields of engineering who want to know what it means to rigorously pursue scientific research in an ethical manner.
Novel High-Rank Phylogenetic Lineages within a Sulfur Spring (Zodletone Spring, Oklahoma), Revealed Using a Combined Pyrosequencing-Sanger Approach
Authors: Youssef Noha , Steidley Brandi L. , Elshahed Mostafa S.
Published: February 2012

The utilization of high-throughput sequencing technologies in 16S rRNA gene-based diversity surveys has indicated that within most ecosystems, a significant fraction of the community could not be assigned to known microbial phyla. Accurate determination of the phylogenetic affiliation of such sequences is difficult due to the short-read-length output of currently available high-throughput technologies. This fraction could harbor multiple novel phylogenetic lineages that have so far escaped detection. Here we describe our efforts in accurate assessment of the novelty and phylogenetic affiliation of selected unclassified lineages within a pyrosequencing data set generated from source sediments of Zodletone Spring, a sulfide- and sulfur-rich spring in southwestern Oklahoma. Lineage-specific forward primers were designed for 78 putatively novel lineages identified within the pyrosequencing data set, and representative nearly full-length small-subunit (SSU) rRNA gene sequences were obtained by pairing those primers with reverse universal bacterial primers. Of the 78 lineages tested, amplifiable products were obtained for 52, 32 of which had at least one nearly full-length sequence that was representative of the lineage targeted. Analysis of phylogenetic affiliation of the obtained Sanger sequences identified 5 novel candidate phyla and 10 novel candidate classes (withinFibrobacteres,Planctomycetes, and candidate phyla BRC1, GN12, TM6, TM7, LD1, WS2, and GN06) in the data set, in addition to multiple novel orders and families. The discovery of multiple novel phyla within a pilot study of a single ecosystem clearly shows the potential of the approach in identifying novel diversities within the rare biosphere.
Commercially Distributed Meat as a Potential Vehicle for Community-Acquired Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Ogata Kikuyo , Narimatsu Hiroshi , Suzuki Masahiro , Higuchi Wataru , Yamamoto Tatsuo , Taniguchi Hatsumi
Published: February 2012

The incidence of community-acquired methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(CA-MRSA) infection has been increasing; however, the sources of infection remain unclear. Therefore, we investigated the involvement of meat as a possible mediator of CA-MRSA infection. We examined the distribution of MRSA strains in commercially distributed raw meat samples (
n
= 197) and diarrheal stool samples of outpatients (
n
= 1,287) that were collected in Oita Prefecture, Japan, between 2003 and 2009 for routine legal inspections. Fourteen MRSA strains were isolated from three meat and 11 stool samples. Among these, seven isolates from three meat and four stool samples exhibited the same epidemiological marker profiles [coagulase type III, staphylococcal enterotoxin C, staphylococcal chromosomal cassette
mec
(SCC
mec
) type IV, ST8,
spa
type 606 (t1767), and toxic shock syndrome toxin-1 (TSST-1) producing type]. Furthermore, of the seven strains, three isolates from two meat samples and one stool sample collected in 2007 exhibited completely identical characteristics with respect to phage open reading frame (ORF) typing, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis, and drug susceptibility profiles. The results suggest that commercially distributed meat could play a role in the prevalence of CA-MRSA in the community.
SOME GAP THEOREMS FOR GRADIENT RICCI SOLITONS
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ-LÓPEZ MANUEL , GARCÍA-RÍO EDUARDO
Published: February 2012

Necessary and sufficient conditions for a gradient Ricci soliton to be Einstein are given, showing that they can be expressed in terms of upper and lower bounds on the behavior of the Ricci tensor when evaluated on the gradient of the potential function of the soliton.
Revisiting the ionic mechanisms of early afterdepolarizations in cardiomyocytes: predominant by Ca waves or Ca currents?
Authors: Zhao Zhenghang , Wen Hairuo , Fefelova Nadezhda , Allen Charelle , Baba Akemichi , Matsuda Toshio , Xie Lai-Hua
Published: February 2012

Early afterdepolarizations (EADs) have been implicated in severe cardiac arrhythmias and sudden cardiac deaths. However, the mechanism(s) for EAD genesis, especially regarding the relative contribution of Ca2+ wave (CaW) vs. L-type Ca current ( ICa,L), still remains controversial. In the present study, we simultaneously recorded action potentials (APs) and intracellular Ca2+ images in isolated rabbit ventricular myocytes and systematically compared the properties of EADs in the following two pharmacological models: 1) hydrogen peroxide (H2O2; 200 μM); and 2) isoproterenol (100 nM) and BayK 8644 (50 nM) (Iso + BayK). We assessed the rate dependency of EADs, the temporal relationship between EADs and corresponding CaWs, the distribution of EADs over voltage, and the effects of blockers of ICa,L, Na/Ca exchangers, and ryanodine receptors. The most convincing evidence came from the AP-clamp experiment, in which the cell membrane clamp was switched from current clamp to voltage clamp using a normal AP waveform without EAD; CaWs disappeared in the H2O2 model, but persisted in the Iso + BayK model. We postulate that, although CaWs and reactivation of ICa,L may act synergistically in either case, reactivation of ICa,L plays a predominant role in EAD genesis under oxidative stress (H2O2 model), while spontaneous CaWs are a predominant cause for EADs under Ca2+ overload condition (Iso + BayK model).
Rate-Dependent Effects of Vernakalant in the Isolated Non-Remodeled Canine Left Atria Are Primarily Due to Block of the Sodium Channel
Authors: Burashnikov Alexander , Pourrier Marc , Gibson John K. , Lynch Joseph J. , Antzelevitch Charles
Published: February 2012

Background—

Several clinical trials have shown that vernakalant is effective in terminating recent onset atrial fibrillation (AF). The electrophysiological actions of vernakalant are not fully understood.

Methods and Results—

Here we report the results of a blinded study comparing the in vitro canine atrial electrophysiological effects of vernakalant, ranolazine, and dl-sotalol. Action potential durations (APD
50,75,90
), effective refractory period (ERP), post repolarization refractoriness (PRR), maximum rate of rise of the action potential (AP) upstroke (V
max
), diastolic threshold of excitation (DTE), conduction time (CT), and the shortest S
1
-S
1
permitting 1:1 activation (S
1
-S
1
) were measured using standard stimulation and microelectrode recording techniques in isolated normal, non-remodeled canine arterially perfused left atrial preparations. Vernakalant caused variable but slight prolongation of APD
90
(
P
=not significant), but significant prolongation of APD
50
at 30 μmol/L and rapid rates. In contrast, ranolazine and dl-sotalol produced consistent concentration- and reverse rate-dependent prolongation of APD
90.
Vernakalant and ranolazine caused rate-dependent, whereas dl-sotalol caused reverse rate-dependent, prolongation of ERP. Significant rate-dependent PRR developed with vernakalant and ranolazine, but not with dl-sotalol. Other sodium channel-mediated parameters (ie, V
max
, CT, DTE, and S
1
-S
1
) also were depressed significantly by vernakalant and ranolazine, but not by dl-sotalol. Only vernakalant elevated AP plateau voltage, consistent with blockade of ultrarapid delayed rectified potassium current and transient outward potassium current.

Conclusions—

In isolated canine left atria, the effects of vernakalant and ranolazine were characterized by use-dependent inhibition of sodium channel-mediated parameters, and those of dl-sotalol by reverse rate-dependent prolongation of APD
90
and ERP. This suggests that during the rapid activation rates of AF, the I
Na
blocking action of the mixed ion channel blocker vernakalant takes prominence. This mechanism may explain vernakalant's anti-AF efficacy.
North Australian Sea Surface Temperatures and the El Niño–Southern Oscillation in Observations and Models
Authors: Catto Jennifer L. , Nicholls Neville , Jakob Christian
Published: February 2012

Interannual variations in the sea surface temperature (SST) to the north of Australia are strongly linked to variations in Australian climate, including winter rainfall and tropical cyclone numbers. The north Australian SSTs are also closely linked to ENSO and tropical Pacific SSTs, with the relationship exhibiting a strong seasonal cycle. Credible predictions of Australian climate change therefore depend on climate models being able to represent ENSO and its connection to north Australian SSTs, the topic of this study.

First, the observational datasets of the Met Office Hadley Centre Sea Ice and Sea Surface Temperature (HadISST) and the NOAA Extended Reconstructed Sea Surface Temperature (ERSST) are used to document the links between the Niño-3.4 index and a north Australian SST index, and the temporal evolution of north Australian SSTs during ENSO events. During austral autumn, the correlation between Niño-3.4 SST and north Australian SST is positive, while in austral spring it is strongly negative. During El Niño events, the north Australian SST anomalies become negative in the austral spring preceding the development of the positive Niño-3.4 SST anomalies.

The coupled models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 3 (CMIP3) are evaluated in terms of this temporal evolution of Niño-3.4 SST and the relationship to north Australian SST for the twentieth-century simulations. Some of the models perform very well, while some do not capture the seasonal cycle of correlations at all. The way in which these relationships may change in the future is examined using the A2 emissions scenario in those models that do a reasonable job of capturing the present-day observed relationship, and very little change is found.
A Simple Booklet for Patient Follow-Up After Endovascular Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair Procedures
Authors: Antoniadis Pavlos N. , Kyriakidis Konstantinos D. , Paraskevas Kosmas I.
Published: February 2012

Endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair (EVAR) procedures require lifelong patient surveillance for the detection of complications (eg, endoleaks or graft migration). This follow-up may be suboptimal. Between November 2010 and November 2011, a follow-up booklet was provided at hospital discharge to 42 consecutive patients undergoing EVAR for an infrarenal AAA. Each patient was given specific instructions for completion of the booklet at each follow-up examination whether this took place at our hospital or elsewhere. After a mean follow-up of 7 ± 3 months, all patients had fully complied with the instructions. This booklet may be useful for patients who find it difficult to attend follow-up appointments. Additionally, this booklet is useful for patients who move to another town/country or in cases of emergency when patients are admitted to another hospital.
Adolescent noncompliance and occupational attainment in transitional societies
Authors: Pals Heili , Tuma Nancy Brandon
Published: February 2012

This article examines the effects of adolescent noncompliance (e.g., breaking of rules, flouting of norms) on occupational attainment in unstable and unpredictable societies. The authors suggest that the effect of adolescent noncompliance on occupational attainment depends on the unpredictability of the society and propose that adolescent noncompliance has positive effects on the occupational status of young adults in unpredictable societies. Using longitudinal data from the Paths of a Generation study, the authors estimate the impact of adolescent noncompliance on occupational status in former Soviet regions at two time points: (1) before the transition (stable society) and (2) in 1997–9, after major societal changes (unstable and unpredictable society). They find that adolescent noncompliance does not affect occupational attainment before the transition; however, it does increase the chance of being a manager after the transition. In addition, it is found that after the transition, adolescent noncompliance has positive effects on occupational attainment in the private sector but not in the state sector, providing further evidence of the positive effect of noncompliance in unpredictable societies.
Effects of maternally exposed colouring food additives on cognitive performance in rats
Authors: Doguc Duygu Kumbul , Ceyhan Betul Mermi , Ozturk Mustafa , Gultekin Fatih
Published: February 2012

Artificial food colourings and additives (AFCAs) have long been suggested to adversely affect the learning and behaviour in children. In this study, we aimed to provide additional data to clarify the possible side effects of colouring additives on behaviour and memory. We administered acceptable daily intake values of AFCAs as a mixture (Eritrosin, Ponceau 4R, Allura Red AC, Sunset Yellow FCF, Tartrazin, Amaranth, Brilliant Blue, Azorubin and Indigotin) to female rats before and during gestation and then tested their effects on behaviour and on spatial working memory in their offspring. Effects on spatial learning and memory were evaluated by Morris water maze, behavioural effects were evaluated by open-field test and forced swim test. Our results showed that commonly used artificial food colourings have no adverse effects on spatial working memory and did not create a depressive behaviour in offspring. But they showed a few significant effects on locomotor activity as AFCAs increased some parameters of locomotor activity.
Experimental investigation on water-injected twin-screw compressor for fuel cell humidification
Authors: Ous Talal , Mujic Elvedin , Stosic Nikola
Published: February 2012

Water injection in twin-screw compressors was examined in order to develop effective humidification and cooling schemes for fuel cell stacks as well as cooling for compressors. The temperature and the relative humidity of the air at suction and exhaust of the compressor were monitored under constant pressure and water injection rate and at variable compressor operating speeds. The experimental results showed that the relative humidity of the outlet air was increased by the water injection. The injection tends to have more effect on humidity at low operating speeds/mass flow rates. Further humidification can be achieved at higher speeds as a higher evaporation rate becomes available. It was also found that the rate of power produced by the fuel cell stack was higher than the rate used to run the compressor for the same amount of air supplied. The efficiency of the balance of plant was, therefore, higher when more air is delivered to the stack. However, this increase in the air supply needs additional subsystems for further humidification/cooling of the balance-of-plant system.
Fatty acids, tocopherols, selenium and total carotene of pistachios (P. vera L.) from Diyarbakır (Southestern Turkey) and walnuts (J. regia L.) from Erzincan (Eastern Turkey)
Authors: Özrenk K. , Javidipour I. , Yarilgac T. , Balta F. , Gündoğdu M.
Published: February 2012

In this study, 14 well-adapted genotypes of pistachio ( Pistachio vera L.) grown in Diyarbakır (Southeastern Turkey) and 15 walnut ( Juglans regia L.) genotypes grown in Erzincan (Eastern Turkey) have been studied. Pistachio genotypes contained 8.16–9.33% palmitic acid, 0.54–0.68% palmitoleic acid, 2.35–4.21% stearic acid, 67.81–76.82% oleic acid, 9.42–18:32% linoleic acid, 0.27–0.38% linolenic acid and 0.19–0.33 % arachidic acid. The range of selenium, α-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, δ-tocopherol, α-tocotrienoid, γ-tocotrienoid and total carotenoid of these promising genotypes were found to be between 11.44 and 190.71 ng/g, 1.36 and 26.93, 36.17 and 170, 0.45 and 2.61, 0.96 and 3.76, 2.33 and 37.72 and 1.01 and 4.93 mg/kg, respectively. Linoleic acid ranging from 43.19% to 53.16% was the most abundant fatty acid in 15 pomologically selected walnut genotypes, followed by oleic and linolenic acids (31.91% and 11.46%, respectively). Their selenium contents ranged between 7.25 and 57.67 ng/g. γ-Tocopherol was the predominant tocopherol in walnut genotypes. Pistachio and walnut genotypes with higher unsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols and selenium contents may be valuable for nutritional breeding efforts.
Variations in the quality of care at radical prostatectomy
Authors: Trinh Quoc-Dien , Sammon Jesse , Jhaveri Jay , Sun Maxine , Ghani Khurshid R. , Schmitges Jan , Jeong Wooju , Peabody James O. , Karakiewicz Pierre I. , Menon Mani
Published: February 2012

Postoperative morbidity and mortality is low following radical prostatectomy (RP), though not inconsequential. Due to the natural history of the disease process, the implications of treatment on long-term oncologic control and functional outcomes are of increased significance. Structures, processes and outcomes are the three main determinants of quality of RP care and provide the framework for this review. Structures affecting quality of care include hospital and surgeon volume, hospital teaching status and patient insurance type. Process determinants of RP care have been poorly studied, by and large, but there is a developing trend toward the performance of randomized trials to assess the merits of evolving RP techniques. Finally, the direct study of RP outcomes has been particularly controversial and includes the development of quality of life measurement tools, combined outcomes measures, and the use of utilities to measure operative success based on individual patient priority.
Effect of autoimmune diseases on risk and survival in histology-specific lung cancer
Authors: Hemminki Kari , Liu Xiangdong , Ji Jianguang , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: February 2012

Patients with autoimmune diseases are at an increased risk of cancer due to underlying dysregulation of the immune system or treatment. Data on cancer incidence, mortality and survival after autoimmune diseases would provide further information on the clinical implications.

We systematically analysed data on lung cancer in patients diagnosed with 33 different autoimmune diseases. Standardised incidence ratios (SIRs), standardised mortality ratios (SMRs) and hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated for subsequent incident lung cancers or lung cancer deaths up to 2008 in patients hospitalised for autoimmune disease after 1964.

Increased risks of lung cancer were recorded for SIRs after 12 autoimmune diseases, SMRs after 11 autoimmune diseases and HRs after two autoimmune diseases. The highest SIRs and SMRs, respectively, were seen after discoid lupus erythematosus (4.71 and 4.80), polymyosistis/dermatomyositis (4.20 and 4.17), systemic lupus erythematosus (2.47 and 2.69), rheumatic fever (2.07 and 2.07) and systemic sclerosis (2.19 and 1.98). Autoimmune disease did not influence survival overall but some autoimmune diseases appeared to impair survival in small cell carcinoma.

All autoimmune diseases that had an SIR >2.0 are known to present with lung manifestations, suggesting that the autoimmune process contributes to lung cancer susceptibility. The data on survival are reassuring that autoimmune diseases do not influence prognosis in lung cancer.
Coordination and resource-related difficulties encountered by Quebec's public health specialists and infectious diseases/medical microbiologists in the management of A (H1N1) - a mixed-method, exploratory survey
Authors: Nhan Charles , Laprise Réjean , Douville-Fradet Monique , Macdonald Mary Ellen , Quach Caroline
Published: February 2012

Background

In Quebec, the influenza A (H1N1) pandemic was managed using a top-down style that left many involved players with critical views and frustrations. We aimed to describe physicians' perceptions - infectious diseases specialists/medical microbiologists (IDMM) and public health/preventive medicine specialists (PHPMS) - in regards to issues encountered with the pandemics management at the physician level and highlight suggested improvements for future healthcare emergencies.

Methods

In April 2010, Quebec IDMM and PHPMS physicians were invited to anonymously complete a web-based learning needs assessment. The survey included both open-ended and multiple-choice questions. Descriptive statistics were used to report on the frequency distribution of multiple choice responses whereas thematic content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data generated from the survey and help understand respondents' experience and perceptions with the pandemics.

Results

Of the 102 respondents, 85.3% reported difficulties or frustrations in their practice during the pandemic. The thematic analysis revealed two core themes describing the problems experienced in the pandemic management: coordination and resource-related difficulties. Coordination issues included communication, clinical practice guidelines, decision-making, roles and responsibilities, epidemiological investigation, and public health expert advisory committees. Resources issues included laboratory resources, patient management, and vaccination process.

Conclusion

Together, the quantitative and qualitative data suggest a need for improved coordination, a better definition of roles and responsibilities, increased use of information technologies, merged communications, and transparency in the decisional process. Increased flexibility and less contradiction in clinical practice guidelines from different sources and increased laboratory/clinical capacity were felt critical to the proper management of infectious disease emergencies.
Rapid glutamate receptor 2 trafficking during retinal degeneration
Authors: Lin Yanhua , Jones Bryan W , Liu Aihua , Vazquéz-Chona Félix R , Lauritzen J Scott , Ferrell W Drew , Marc Robert E
Published: February 2012

Background

Retinal degenerations, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), are characterized by photoreceptor loss and anomalous remodeling of the surviving retina that corrupts visual processing and poses a barrier to late-stage therapeutic interventions in particular. However, the molecular events associated with retinal remodeling remain largely unknown. Given our prior evidence of ionotropic glutamate receptor (iGluR) reprogramming in retinal degenerations, we hypothesized that the edited glutamate receptor 2 (GluR2) subunit and its trafficking may be modulated in retinal degenerations.

Results

Adult albino Balb/C mice were exposed to intense light for 24 h to induce light-induced retinal degeneration (LIRD). We found that prior to the onset of photoreceptor loss, protein levels of GluR2 and related trafficking proteins, including glutamate receptor-interacting protein 1 (GRIP1) and postsynaptic density protein 95 (PSD-95), were rapidly increased. LIRD triggered neuritogenesis in photoreceptor survival regions, where GluR2 and its trafficking proteins were expressed in the anomalous dendrites. Immunoprecipitation analysis showed interaction between KIF3A and GRIP1 as well as PSD-95, suggesting that KIF3A may mediate transport of GluR2 and its trafficking proteins to the novel dendrites. However, in areas of photoreceptor loss, GluR2 along with its trafficking proteins nearly vanished in retracted retinal neurites.

Conclusions

All together, LIRD rapidly triggers GluR2 plasticity, which is a potential mechanism behind functionally phenotypic revisions of retinal neurons and neuritogenesis during retinal degenerations.