bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explicit gauge covariant Euler–Lagrange equation
Authors: Lewis Clinton L.
Published: August 2009

The application of a gauge covariant derivative to the Euler–Lagrange equation yields a shortcut to the equations of motion for a field subject to an external force. The gauge covariant derivative includes an external force as an intrinsic part of the derivative and hence simplifies Lagrangians containing tensor and gauge covariant fields. The gauge covariant derivative used in the covariant Euler–Lagrange equation is presented as an extension of the coordinate covariant derivative used in tensor analysis. Several examples provide useful demonstrations of the covariant derivative relevant to studies in general relativity and gauge theory.
Einstein on mass and energy
Authors: Hecht Eugene
Published: August 2009

This paper explores the evolution of Einstein’s understanding of mass and energy. Early on, Einstein embraced the idea of a speed-dependent mass but changed his mind in 1906 and thereafter carefully avoided that notion entirely. He shunned, and explicitly rejected, what later came to be known as “relativistic mass.” Nonetheless many textbooks and articles credit him with the relation E=mc2, where E is the total energy, m is the relativistic mass, and c is the vacuum speed of light. Einstein never derived this relation, at least not with that understanding of the meaning of its terms. He consistently related the “rest energy” of a system to its invariant inertial mass.
Resource Letter MPRT-1: Medical Physics in Radiation Therapy
Authors: Ratliff Steven T.
Published: August 2009

This resource letter provides a guide to the literature on medical physics in the field of radiation therapy. Journal articles, books, and websites are cited for the following topics: radiological physics, particle accelerators, radiation dose measurements, protocols for radiation dose measurements, radiation shielding and radiation protection, neutron, proton, and heavy-ion therapies, imaging for radiation therapy, brachytherapy, quality assurance, treatment planning, dose calculations, and intensity-modulated and image-guided therapy.
Differential Effects of Tipranavir plus Ritonavir on Atorvastatin or Rosuvastatin Pharmacokinetics in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Pham P. A. , la Porte C. J. L. , Lee L. S. , van Heeswijk R. , Sabo J. P. , Elgadi M. M. , Piliero P. J. , Barditch-Crovo P. , Fuchs E. , Flexner C. , Cameron D. W.
Published: August 2009

To identify pharmacokinetic (PK) drug-drug interactions between tipranavir-ritonavir (TPV/r) and rosuvastatin and atorvastatin, we conducted two prospective, open-label, single-arm, two-period studies. The geometric mean (GM) ratio was 1.37 (90% confidence interval [CI], 1.15 to 1.62) for the area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) for rosuvastatin and 2.23 (90% CI, 1.83 to 2.72) for the maximum concentration of drug in serum (
C
max
) for rosuvastatin with TPV/r at steady state versus alone. The GM ratio was 9.36 (90% CI, 8.02 to 10.94) for the AUC of atorvastatin and 8.61 (90% CI, 7.25 to 10.21) for the
C
max
of atorvastatin with TPV/r at steady state versus alone. Tipranavir PK parameters were not affected by single-dose rosuvastatin or atorvastatin. Mild gastrointestinal intolerance, headache, and mild reversible liver enzyme elevations (grade 1 and 2) were the most commonly reported adverse drug reactions. Based on these interactions, we recommend low initial doses of rosuvastatin (5 mg) and atorvastatin (10 mg), with careful clinical monitoring of rosuvastatin- or atorvastatin-related adverse events when combined with TPV/r.
Silica-Antibiotic Hybrid Nanoparticles for Targeting Intracellular Pathogens
Authors: Seleem Mohamed N. , Munusamy Prabhakaran , Ranjan Ashish , Alqublan Hamzeh , Pickrell Gary , Sriranganathan Nammalwar
Published: August 2009

We investigated the capability of biodegradable silica xerogel as a novel carrier of antibiotic and the efficacy of treatment compared to that with the same dose of free drug against murine salmonellosis. The drug molecules (31%) entrapped in the sol-gel matrix remained in biologically active form, and the bactericidal effect was retained upon drug release. The in vitro drug release profiles of the gentamicin from the xerogel and that from the xerogel-polyethylene glycol (PEG) were distinctly different at pH 7.4. A delayed release of gentamicin was observed from the silica xerogel network (57% in 33 h), and with the addition of 2% PEG, the release rate reached 90% in 33 h. Administration of two doses of the silica xerogel significantly reduced the
Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium load in the spleens and livers of infected AJ 646 mice. The silica xerogel and xerogel-PEG achieved a 0.45-log and a 0.41-log reduction in the spleens, respectively, while for the free drug there was no reduction. On the other hand, silica xerogel and xerogel-PEG achieved statistically significant 1.13-log and 1.15-log reductions in the livers, respectively, while for the free drug the reduction was a nonsignificant value of 0.07 log. This new approach, which utilizes a room-temperature synthetic route for incorporating therapeutic drugs into the silica matrix, should improve the capability for targeting intracellular pathogens.
Microarray and Functional Analysis of Growth Phase-Dependent Gene Regulation inBordetella bronchiseptica
Authors: Nicholson Tracy L. , Buboltz Anne M. , Harvill Eric T. , Brockmeier Susan L.
Published: August 2009

Growth phase-dependent gene regulation has recently been demonstrated to occur inBordetella pertussis, with many transcripts, including known virulence factors, significantly decreasing during the transition from logarithmic to stationary-phase growth. Given thatB. pertussisis thought to have derived from aBordetella bronchiseptica-like ancestor, we hypothesized that growth phase-dependent gene regulation would also occur inB. bronchiseptica. Microarray analysis revealed and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) confirmed that growth phase-dependent gene regulation occurs inB. bronchiseptica, resulting in prominent temporal shifts in global gene expression. Two virulence phenotypes associated with these gene expression changes were tested. We found that growth-dependent increases in expression of some type III secretion system (TTSS) genes led to a growth phase-dependent increase in a TTSS-dependent function, cytotoxicity. Although the transcription of genes encoding adhesins previously shown to mediate adherence was decreased in late-log and stationary phases, we found that the adherence ofB. bronchisepticadid not decrease in these later phases of growth. Microarray analysis revealed and qRT-PCR confirmed that growth phase-dependent gene regulation occurred in both Bvg+and Bvg−phase-locked mutants, indicating that growth phase-dependent gene regulation inB. bronchisepticacan function independently from the BvgAS regulatory system.
Chlamydia muridarum-Specific CD4 T-Cell Clones Recognize Infected Reproductive Tract Epithelial Cells in an Interferon-Dependent Fashion
Authors: Jayarapu Krupakar , Kerr Micah S. , Katschke Adrian , Johnson Raymond M.
Published: August 2009

During natural infectionsChlamydia trachomatisurogenital serovars replicate predominantly in the epithelial cells lining the reproductive tract. This tissue tropism poses a unique challenge to host cellar immunity and future vaccine development. In the experimental mouse model, CD4 T cells are necessary and sufficient to clearChlamydia muridarumgenital tract infections. This implies that resolution of genital tract infection depends on CD4 T-cell interactions with infected epithelial cells. However, no laboratory has shown thatChlamydia-specific CD4 T cells can recognizeChlamydiaantigens presented by major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC-I) molecules on epithelial cells. In this report we show that MHC-II-restrictedChlamydia-specific CD4 T-cell clones recognize infected upper reproductive tract epithelial cells as early as 12 h postinfection. The timing of recognition and degree of T-cell activation are dependent on the interferon (IFN) milieu. Beta IFN (IFN-β) and IFN-γ have different effects on T-cell activation, with IFN-β blunting IFN-γ-induced upregulation of epithelial cell surface MHC-II and T-cell activation. Individual CD4 T-cell clones differed in their degrees of dependence on IFN-γ-regulated MHC-II for controllingChlamydiareplication in epithelial cells in vitro. We discuss our data as they relate to published studies with IFN knockout mice, proposing a straightforward interpretation of the existing literature based on CD4 T-cell interactions with the infected reproductive tract epithelium.
Early changes in respiratory health in trades' apprentices and physician visits for respiratory illnesses later in life
Authors: Peters C E , Demers P A , Sehmer J , Karlen B , Kennedy S M
Published: August 2009

Objectives

An inception cohort of trades' apprentices had rapid declines in lung function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)) and rapid increases in bronchial responsiveness (↑BR) over the first 2 years of employment. We used physician visit data to assess respiratory health over the following 13 years.

Methods

Construction painter, electrician, insulator and machinist apprentices beginning at a British Columbia trade school in 1988 were invited to participate and were followed up 2 years later. Subjects were linked to provincial medical databases to examine physician visits for asthma and other respiratory illnesses for the 13 years following. Multivariable models with rapid decline in FEV1and rapid increase in BR from years 1 to 3 were constructed. Respiratory symptoms were also examined as predictors of visit rates and meeting a case definition (for asthma or other respiratory illness).

Results

The cohort included 281 apprentices (97% are men). Sixteen subjects met the asthma case definition (≥2 visits coded as asthma in 1 year) and 20 met the other respiratory illness case definition (≥3 visits for bronchitis, emphysema, respiratory symptoms in 1 year). In models controlling for demographic factors and smoking, subjects with bronchitis symptoms at baseline were more likely to develop other respiratory illness during follow-up (RR 4.4, 95% CI 1.6 to 11.9). Apprentices who developed asthma symptoms over the first 2 years were approximately six times more likely to become asthma cases (95% CI 1.9 to 18.8). Those with a rapid increase in BR were at increased risk of becoming asthma cases (RR 5.5, 95% CI 1.9 to 16.1), as well as having higher asthma visit rates (RR 6.5). Subjects with rapid decline in FEV1were 3.2 times more likely to become asthma cases (95% CI 0.8 to 12.1).

Conclusions

Changes in respiratory health early in adulthood, especially increased BR, are associated with respiratory physician visits. These findings are important for workplace screening and prevention and also suggest that physician visit databases are promising research tools in respiratory epidemiology.
EXTREMAL EQUILIBRIA FOR DISSIPATIVE PARABOLIC EQUATIONS IN LOCALLY UNIFORM SPACES
Authors: CHOLEWA JAN W. , RODRÍGUEZ-BERNAL ANÍBAL
Published: August 2009

We consider a reaction diffusion equation ut = Δu + f(x, u) in ℝN with initial data in the locally uniform space [Formula: see text], q ∈ [1, ∞), and with dissipative nonlinearities satisfying s f(x, s) ≤ C(x)s2 + D(x) |s|, where [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for certain [Formula: see text]. We construct a global attractor [Formula: see text] and show that [Formula: see text] is actually contained in an ordered interval [φm, φM], where [Formula: see text] is a pair of stationary solutions, minimal and maximal respectively, that satisfy φm ≤ lim inft→∞ u(t; u0) ≤ lim supt→∞ u(t; u0) ≤ φM uniformly for u0 in bounded subsets of [Formula: see text]. A sufficient condition concerning the existence of minimal positive steady state, asymptotically stable from below, is given. Certain sufficient conditions are also discussed ensuring the solutions to be asymptotically small as |x| → ∞. In this case the solutions are shown to enter, asymptotically, Lebesgue spaces of integrable functions in ℝN, the attractor attracts in the uniform convergence topology in ℝN and is a bounded subset of W2,r(ℝN) for some r > N/2. Uniqueness and asymptotic stability of positive solutions are also discussed.

Applications to some model problems, including some from mathematical biology are given.
Reduction of closed queueing networks for efficient simulation
Authors: Shortle John F. , Mark Brian L. , Gross Donald
Published: August 2009

This article gives several methods for approximating a closed queueing network with a smaller one. The objective is to reduce the simulation time of the network. We consider Jackson-like networks with Markovian routing and with general service distributions. The basic idea is to first divide the network into two parts—the core nodes of interest and the remaining nodes. We suppose that only metrics at the core nodes are of interest. The remaining nodes are collapsed into a reduced set of nodes, in an effort to approximate the flows into and out of the set of core nodes. The core nodes and their interactions are preserved in the reduced network. We test the network reductions for accuracy and speed. By randomly generating sample networks, we test the reductions on a large variety of test networks, rather than on a few specific cases. The main conclusion is that the reductions work well when the squared coefficients of variation of the service distributions are not all small (that is, the network is not close to being deterministic) and for nodes where the utilization is not too high or too low.
Finding probably best systems quickly via simulations
Authors: Osogami Takayuki
Published: August 2009

We propose an indifference-zone approach for a ranking and selection problem with the goal of reducing both the number of simulated samples of the performance and the frequency of configuration changes. We prove that with a prespecified high probability, our algorithm finds the best system configuration. Our proof hinges on several ideas, including the use of Anderson's probability bound, that have not been fully investigated for the ranking and selection problem. Numerical experiments show that our algorithm can select the best system configuration using up to 50% fewer simulated samples than existing algorithms without increasing the frequency of configuration changes.
Gradient estimation for a class of systems with bulk services
Authors: Heidergott Bernd , Vázquez-Abad Felisa J.
Published: August 2009

This article presents a comparison of different gradient estimators for the sensitivity of waiting times in a bulk server system. Inspired by a transportation network, our model is that of a bursty arrival process that waits at a “platform” until the server is available (representing a train or bus ready for departure). At the departure epochs, all waiting passengers leave at once. The departure process is assumed to be a renewal process and, based on a limiting result, the interdeparture times are approximated by truncated normal random variables. The interarrival times are assumed to be identically and independently distributed (i.i.d.), with a general distribution of bounded density. We are interested in calculating the sensitivities of the total cumulative waiting time of all passengers with respect to the interdeparture times. For this general model where neither the interarrival times nor the interdeparture times are exponential, there is no analytical formula available. However, the estimation of such sensitivities is an important problem for flow control in such networks. We establish a Smoothed Perturbation Analysis (SPA), a Measure-Valued Differentiation (MVD), and a Score Function (SF) estimator, including numerical experiments.
A new function algebra of EXPTIME functions by safe nested recursion
Authors: Arai Toshiyasu , Eguchi Naohi
Published: August 2009

Bellantoni and Cook have given a function-algebra characterization of the polynomial-time computable functions via an unbounded recursion scheme which is called safe recursion. Inspired by their work, we characterize the exponential-time computable functions with the use of a safe variant of nested recursion.
A flow calculus ofmwp-bounds for complexity analysis
Authors: Jones Neil D. , Kristiansen Lars
Published: August 2009

We present a method for certifying that the values computed by an imperative program will be bounded by polynomials in the program's inputs. To this end, we introducemwp-matrices and define a semantic relation ⊧ C :M, where C is a program andMis anmwp-matrix. It follows straightforwardly from our definitions that there existsMsuch that ⊧ C :Mholds iff every value computed by C is bounded by a polynomial in the inputs. Furthermore, we provide a syntactical proof calculus and define the relation ⊢ C :Mto hold iff there exists a derivation in the calculus where C :Mis the bottom line. We prove that ⊢ C :Mimplies ⊧ C :M.

By means of exhaustive proof search, an algorithm can decide if there existsMsuch that the relation ⊢ C :Mholds, and thus, our results yield a computational method.
Fragment, tag, enrich, and send
Authors: Cesar Pablo , Bulterman Dick C. A. , Jansen Jack , Geerts David , Knoche Hendrik , Seager William
Published: August 2009

The migration of media consumption to personal computers retains distributed social viewing, but only via nonsocial, strictly personal interfaces. This article presents an architecture, and implementation for media sharing that allows for enhanced social interactions among users. Using a mixed-device model, our work allows targeted, personalized enrichment of content. All recipients see common content, while differentiated content is delivered to individuals via their personal secondary screens. We describe the goals, architecture, and implementation of our system in this article. In order to validate our results, we also present results from two user studies involving disjoint sets of test participants.
Multipath live streaming via TCP
Authors: Wang Bing , Wei Wei , Guo Zheng , Towsley Don
Published: August 2009

Motivated by the wide use of TCP for multimedia streaming in practice and the increasing availability of multipath between end hosts, we study multipath live streaming via TCP in this article. We first design a simple and practical TCP-based multipath streaming scheme, named
Dynamic MPath-streaming (DMP-streaming)
, which dynamically distributes packets over multiple paths by
implicitly inferring
the available bandwidths on these paths. To allow systematic performance study, we develop an analytical model for DMP-streaming and validate the model using extensive
ns
simulation and Internet experiments. We explore the parameter space of this model and find that DMP-streaming generally provides satisfactory performance when the aggregate achievable TCP throughput is 1.6 times the video bitrate, when allowing a few seconds of startup delay. Last, we comment on the benefits of using multipath versus single path for TCP-based streaming.
The Expanding Purview of Cultural Properties and Their Politics
Authors: Coombe Rosemary J.
Published: August 2009

Cultural property is a field of law and politics that has expanded dramatically in the past two decades. The review explores the international legal, political, economic, and technological terrain in which possessive relations to cultural forms have been articulated and incited, as well as the revitalization of human rights claims premised upon cultural grounds. Changing practices, behaviors, attitudes, and protocols regarding cultural heritage both index and reflect transformations in social relationships that are indicative of larger patterns of late modernity and decolonization. This premise is illustrated through considerations of changing practices in cultural heritage preservation, archaeological and curatorial relationships to indigenous heritage properties, development institutions and programs, uses of intellectual property, and the treatment of traditional knowledge and traditional cultural expression. A new body of negotiated proprieties is emerging in a space of unprecedented legal pluralism that constitutes a significant area for sociolegal inquiry.
Does Torture Work? A Sociolegal Assessment of the Practice in Historical and Global Perspective
Authors: Hajjar Lisa
Published: August 2009

Torture is absolutely prohibited and constitutes one of the core crimes under international law. There is a substantial body of sociolegal literature that addresses torture's illegality. But this article tackles the question “does torture work?” The analysis locates the practice of torture in historical and global perspective, accommodating but not constrained by post-9/11 scholarship on American torture. The titular question is treated more critically and comprehensively than a narrowly construed focus on the value and veracity of utterances produced as a result of pain and suffering. Drawing on scholarship from a variety of fields, the article addresses how torture works (i.e., why it has been used and its effects) in order to highlight the role of torture in the mutually constitutive histories of law-state-society relations. The final section uses the American case to offer conclusions about the efficacy and effects of torture.
Willpower and Legal Policy
Authors: Fennell Lee Anne
Published: August 2009

People often act in ways that are inconsistent with their own stated desires. What, if anything, can or should legal policy do about this disjunction? In recent years, legal and social science scholarship has increasingly examined self-control and related concepts. In this review, I discuss the policy implications of this work. I begin by defining willpower, disaggregating it from other, related problems, and considering the terms of the intraself conflict it implies. Drawing on ideas that are well recognized in the literature, I divide the costs of willpower lapses and their prevention into the failure costs of bad decisions, the exercise costs associated with exerting willpower effort, and the erosion costs that individuals and society as a whole might incur over time if willpower is not regularly exercised. After surveying a variety of possible policy responses to self-control problems, I offer some suggestions for future research.
Experimental Law and Economics
Authors: Croson Rachel
Published: August 2009

Over the past 30 years, experimental economics has grown as a specialization and is now viewed as an appropriate methodology with which to study economics questions. This methodology has been applied to law and economics as well. This article reviews three streams of research in experimental law and economics: the Coase Theorem, Legal Institutions, and the Foundations of Law. The hope is to provide some examples of how experimental research can inform law and economics and to highlight avenues for future research.
Bayesian Unsupervised Learning of DNA Regulatory Binding Regions
Authors: Corander Jukka , Ekdahl Magnus , Koski Timo
Published: August 2009

Identification of regulatory binding motifs, that is, short specific words, within DNA sequences is a commonly occurring problem in computational bioinformatics. A wide variety of probabilistic approaches have been proposed in the literature to either scan for previously known motif types or to attempt de novo identification of a fixed number (typically one) of putative motifs. Most
approaches assume the existence of reliable biodatabase information to build probabilistic a priori description of the motif classes.
Examples of attempts to do probabilistic unsupervised learning about the number of putative de novo motif types and their
positions within a set of DNA sequences are very rare in the literature. Here we show how such a learning problem can be formulated using a Bayesian model that targets to simultaneously maximize the marginal likelihood of sequence data arising under multiple motif types as well as under the background DNA model, which equals a variable length Markov chain. It is demonstrated how the adopted Bayesian modelling strategy combined with recently introduced nonstandard stochastic computation tools yields a more tractable learning procedure than is possible with the standard Monte Carlo approaches. Improvements and extensions of the proposed approach are also discussed.
Vaginal Vault Prolapse
Authors: Uzoma Azubuike , Farag K. A.
Published: August 2009

Introduction. Vaginal vault prolapse is a common complication following vaginal hysterectomy with negative impact on women's quality of life due to associated urinary, anorectal and sexual dysfunction. A clear understanding of the supporting mechanism for the uterus and vagina is important in making the right choice of corrective procedure. Management should be individualised, taking into consideration the surgeon's experience, patients age, comorbidities, previous surgery and sex life.Result. Preexisting pelvic floor defect prior to hysterectomy is the single most important risk factor for vault prolapse. Various surgical techniques have been advanced at hysterectomy to prevent vault prolapse. Studies have shown the McCall's culdoplasty under direct visualisation to be superior. Vault prolapse repair rely on either the use of patient's tissue or synthetic materials and can be carried out abdominally or vaginally. Sacrospinous fixation and abdominal sacrocolpopexy are the commonly performed procedures, with literature in favour of abdominal sacrocolpopexy over sacrospinous fixation due to its reported higher success rate of about 90%. Other less commonly performed procedures include uterosacral ligament suspension and illiococcygeal fixation, both of which are equally effective, with the former having a high risk of ureteric injury. Colpoclesis will play a greater role in the future as the aging population increases. Mesh procedures are gaining in popularity, and preliminary data from vaginal mesh procedures is encouraging. Laparoscopic techniques require a high level of skill and experience. There are many controversies on the mechanism of prolapse and management techniques, which we have tried to address in this article.Conclusion. As the aging population increases, the incidence of prolapse will also rise, older techniques using native tissue will continue, while new techniques using the mesh needs to be studied further. The later may well be the way forward in future.
Possible Health Implications and Low Vitamin D Status during Childhood and Adolescence: An Updated Mini Review
Authors: Papandreou Dimitrios , Malindretos Pavlos , Karabouta Zacharoula , Rousso Israel
Published: August 2009

Vitamin D deficiency is common in the developing countries and exists in both childhood and adult life. The great importance of Vitamin D is the moderation of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) homeostasis as well as the absorption of Ca. While insufficiency of vitamin D is a significant contributing factor to risk of rickets in childhood, it is possible that a more marginal deficiency of vitamin D during life span contribute to osteoporosis as well as potentially to the development and various other chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes. This paper reviews the metabolism, epidemiology, and treatment of vitamin D and calcium insufficiency as well as its relation to various diseases during childhood and adolescence.
The ATF6-Met[67]Val Substitution Is Associated With Increased Plasma Cholesterol Levels
Authors: Meex Steven J.R. , Weissglas-Volkov Daphna , van der Kallen Carla J.H. , Thuerauf Donna J. , van Greevenbroek Marleen M.J. , Schalkwijk Casper G. , Stehouwer Coen D.A. , Feskens Edith J.M. , Heldens Lonneke , Ayoubi Torik A. , Hofker Marten H. , Wouters Bradly G. , Vlietinck Robert , Sinsheimer Janet S. , Taskinen Marja-Riitta , Kuusisto Johanna , Laakso Markku , de Bruin Tjerk W.A. , Pajukanta Päivi , Glembotski Christopher C.
Published: August 2009

Objective—

Activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6) is a sensor of the endoplasmic reticulum stress response and regulates expression of several key lipogenic genes. We used a 2-stage design to investigate whether ATF6 polymorphisms are associated with lipids in subjects at increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods and Results—

In stage 1, 13 tag-SNPs were tested for association in Dutch samples ascertained for familial combined hyperlipidemia (FCHL) or increased risk for CVD (CVR). In stage 2, we further investigated the SNP with the strongest association from stage 1, a Methionine/Valine substitution at amino-acid 67, in Finnish FCHL families and in subjects with CVR from METSIM, a Finnish population-based cohort. The combined analysis of both stages reached region-wide significance (
P
=9×10
−4
), but this association was not seen in the entire METSIM cohort. Our functional analysis demonstrated that Valine at position 67 augments ATF6 protein and its targets Grp78 and Grp94 as well as increases luciferase expression through Grp78 promoter.

Conclusions—

A common nonsynonymous variant in ATF6 increases ATF6 protein levels and is associated with cholesterol levels in subjects at increased risk for CVD, but this association was not seen in a population-based cohort. Further replication is needed to confirm the role of this variant in lipids.
Inhibition of Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Attenuated Atherosclerosis, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Formation, and Dyslipidemia
Authors: Zhang Le-Ning , Vincelette Jon , Cheng Ying , Mehra Upasana , Chen Dawn , Anandan Sampath-Kumar , Gless Richard , Webb Heather K. , Wang Yi-Xin (Jim)
Published: August 2009

Objective—

Epoxyeicosatrienoic acids (EETs) have been shown to have antiinflammatory effects and therefore may play a role in preventing vascular inflammatory and atherosclerotic diseases. Soluble epoxide hydrolase (s-EH) converts EETs into less bioactive dihydroxyeicosatrienoic acids. Thus, inhibition of s-EH can prevent degradation of EETs and prolong their effects. The present study aimed to test the hypothesis that inhibition of s-EH has vascular protective effects.

Methods and Results—

Six-month-old apolipoprotein E–deficient mice were chronically infused with angiotensin II (1.44 mg/kg/d) for 4 weeks to induce abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), accelerate atherosclerosis development and carotid artery ligation-induced vascular remodeling. The mice were treated with a novel s-EH inhibitor, AR9276 (1.5 g/L in drinking water) or vehicle for 4 weeks. The results demonstrated that AR9276 significantly reduced the rate of AAA formation and atherosclerotic lesion area, but had no effect on ligation-induced carotid artery remodeling. These effects were associated with a reduction of serum lipid, IL-6, murine IL-8-KC, and IL-1α, and downregulation of gene expressions of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and IL-6 in the arterial wall.

Conclusions—

The present data demonstrate that treatment with an s-EH inhibitor attenuates AAA formation and atherosclerosis development. The attendant downregulation of inflammatory mediators and lipid lowering effects may both contribute to the observed vascular protective effects.
Association of Scavenger Receptors in Adipose Tissue With Insulin Resistance in Nondiabetic Humans
Authors: Rasouli Neda , Yao-Borengasser Aiwei , Varma Vijayalakshmi , Spencer Horace J. , McGehee Robert E. , Peterson Charlotte A. , Mehta Jawahar L. , Kern Philip A.
Published: August 2009

Objective—

Scavenger receptors play crucial roles in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis, but their role in insulin resistance has not been explored. We hypothesized that scavenger receptors are present in human adipose tissue resident macrophages, and their gene expression is regulated by adiponectin and thaizolidinediones.

Methods and Results—

The gene expression of scavenger receptors including scavenger receptor-A (SRA), CD36, and lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) were studied in subcutaneous adipose tissue of nondiabetic subjects and in vitro. Adipose tissue SRA expression was independently associated with insulin resistance. Pioglitazone downregulated SRA gene expression in adipose tissue of subjects with impaired glucose tolerance and decreased LOX-1 mRNA in vitro. Macrophage LOX-1 expression was decreased when macrophages were cocultured with adipocytes or when exposed to adipocyte conditioned medium. Adding adiponectin neutralizing antibody resulted in a 2-fold increase in LOX-1 gene expression demonstrating that adiponectin regulates LOX-1 expression.

Conclusion—

Adipose tissue scavenger receptors are strongly associated with insulin resistance. Pioglitazone and adiponectin regulate gene expression of SRA and LOX-1, and this may have clinical implications in arresting the untoward sequalae of insulin resistance and diabetes, including accelerated atherosclerosis.
Membrane Cholesterol Is a Biomechanical Regulator of Neutrophil Adhesion
Authors: Oh Hana , Mohler Emile R. , Tian Aiwei , Baumgart Tobias , Diamond Scott L.
Published: August 2009

Objective—

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of membrane cholesterol on human neutrophil and HL-60 biomechanics, capture, rolling, and arrest to P-selectin– or IL-1–activated endothelium.

Methods and Results—

Methyl-β-cyclodextrin (MβCD) removed up to 73% and 45% of membrane cholesterol from HL-60 cells and neutrophils, whereas MβCD/cholesterol complexes resulted in maximum enrichment of 65% and 40%, respectively, above control levels. Cells were perfused at a venous wall shear rate of 100 s
−1
over adherent P-selectin–coated 1-μm diameter beads, uncoated 10-μm diameter beads, P-selectin–coated surfaces, or activated endothelium. Elevated cholesterol enhanced capture efficiency to 1-μm beads and increased membrane tether growth rate by 1.5- to 2-fold, whereas cholesterol depletion greatly reduced tether formation. Elevated cholesterol levels increased tether lifetime by 17% in neutrophils and adhesion lifetime by 63% in HL-60 cells. Deformation of cholesterol-enriched neutrophils increased the contact time with 10-μm beads by 32% and the contact area by 7-fold. On both P-selectin surfaces and endothelial-cell monolayers, cholesterol-enriched neutrophils rolled more slowly, more stably, and were more likely to firmly arrest. Cholesterol depletion resulted in opposite effects.

Conclusions—

Increasing membrane cholesterol enhanced membrane tether formation and whole cell deformability, contributing to slower, more stable rolling on P-selectin and increased firm arrest on activated endothelium.
Differential Effects Between a Calcium Channel Blocker and a Diuretic When Used in Combination With Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker on Central Aortic Pressure in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Matsui Yoshio , Eguchi Kazuo , O'Rourke Michael F. , Ishikawa Joji , Miyashita Hiroshi , Shimada Kazuyuki , Kario Kazuomi
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study was to compare the effects between calcium channel blockers and diuretics when used in combination with angiotensin II receptor blocker on aortic systolic blood pressure (BP) and brachial ambulatory systolic BP. We conducted a prospective, randomized, open-label, blinded end point study in 207 hypertensive patients (mean age: 68.4 years). Patients received olmesartan monotherapy for 12 weeks, followed by additional use of azelnidipine (n=103) or hydrochlorothiazide (n=104) for 24 weeks after randomization. The central BP by radial artery tonometry, aortic pulse wave velocity, and ambulatory BP were assessed at baseline and 24 weeks later. After adjustment for baseline covariates, the extent of the reduction in central systolic BP in the olmesartan/azelnidipine group was significantly greater than that in the olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide group (the between-group difference was 5.2 mm Hg; 95% CI: 0.3 to 10.2 mm Hg;
P
=0.039), whereas the difference in the reduction in brachial systolic BP between the groups was not significant (2.6 mm Hg; 95% CI: −2.2 to 7.5 mm Hg;
P
=0.29). The aortic pulse wave velocity showed a significantly greater reduction for the olmesartan/azelnidipine combination than for the olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide combination (0.8 m/s; 95% CI: 0.5 to 1.1 m/s;
P
<0.001) after adjustment for covariates. The extent of the reduction in brachial ambulatory systolic BP was similar between the groups. These data showed that the combination of olmesartan (20.0 mg) and azelnidipine (16.0 mg) had a more beneficial effect on central systolic BP and arterial stiffness than the combination of olmesartan (20.0 mg) and hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg), despite the lack of a significant difference in brachial systolic BP reduction between the 2 treatments.
Xanthine Oxidoreductase Depletion Induces Renal Interstitial Fibrosis Through Aberrant Lipid and Purine Accumulation in Renal Tubules
Authors: Ohtsubo Toshio , Matsumura Kiyoshi , Sakagami Kanae , Fujii Koji , Tsuruya Kazuhiko , Noguchi Hideko , Rovira Ilsa I. , Finkel Toren , Iida Mitsuo
Published: August 2009

Xanthine oxidoreductase (XOR) is an enzyme responsible for purine degradation, reactive oxygen species production, and adipogenesis.
XOR
gene-disrupted (XOR
−/−
) mice demonstrate renal failure and early death within several months. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanism of renal damage in XOR
−/−
mice and to determine the physiological role of XOR in the kidney. Histological analysis revealed that renal tubular damage in XOR
−/−
mice was accompanied by deposition of crystals and lipid-rich substances. Triglyceride content in renal homogenates was significantly increased in XOR
−/−
mice. The level of lipogenesis-related gene expression was comparable in XOR
+/+
and XOR
−/−
mice, whereas the expression of adipogenesis-related gene expression was significantly elevated in XOR
−/−
mice. Urinary excretions of xanthine and hypoxanthine were markedly elevated in XOR
−/−
mice. Immunohistochemical analysis, Western blotting, and real time RT-PCR revealed that various markers of fibrosis, inflammation, ischemia, and oxidative stress were increased in XOR
−/−
mice. Finally, we demonstrate that primary renal epithelial cells from XOR
−/−
mice are more readily transformed to myofibroblasts, which is a marker of increased epithelial mesenchymal transition. These results suggest that
XOR
gene disruption induced the depletion of uric acid and the accumulation of triglyceride-rich substances, xanthine, and hypoxanthine in the renal tubules. We believe that these changes contribute to a complex cellular milieu characterized by inflammation, tissue hypoxia, and reactive oxygen species production, ultimately resulting in renal failure through increased renal interstitial fibrosis.
Evidence of Genetic and Environmental Effects On the Development of Low Self-Control
Authors: Beaver Kevin M. , Ratchford Marie , Ferguson Christopher J.
Published: August 2009

A body of research has revealed that low self-control is one of the strongest and most consistent predictors of antisocial behaviors. As a result, there is great interest in identifying the factors that cause variation in levels of self-control. Much of this work has centered on identifying the effects that social factors, such as parental socialization, have on self-control. More recently, however, there has been research revealing that levels of self-control are scripted by genetic factors as well as environmental factors. The current study examines whether a polymorphism (5HTTLPR) in the serotonin transporter gene and exposure to delinquent peers are associated with levels of self-control. Analysis of the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health indicates that the 5HTTLPR polymorphism interacted with a measure of delinquent peer affiliation to predict variation in self-control during adolescence and adulthood. Implications for theories of crime causation are discussed.
The Resurrection of the Image
Authors: Jackson Kimberly
Published: August 2009

In this article I wish to elucidate a form of receptivity in our relation to televisual images that cannot be reduced to the postmodern formula of a closed circuit of desire through which the self(same) infinitely reproduces itself. Through analysis of the peculiar experience of viewing Gore Verbinski’s 2003 film The Ring (a remake of Hideo Nakata’s Ring), I argue for the possibility of an experience of alterity in and through the televisual. I pair this event with the religious experience of viewing the icon that Jean-Luc Marion opposes to the televisual in his recent works collected in The Crossing of the Visible. The purpose of the comparison is not to conflate the two experiences but rather to suggest that the possibility for reclaiming a space for difference in a postmodern world lies within the televisual itself, the very medium that Marion credits with the bankruptcy of the aesthetic. In The Ring, the process through which the viewer expects to see her own desire reproduced is violently interrupted by a vengeful image that shatters the mirror of reflection between viewer and viewed and threatens to cross over that threshold — to cross the visible, in Marion’s terms.
Another Politics of Life is Possible
Authors: Fassin Didier
Published: August 2009

Although it is usually assumed that in Michel Foucault’s work biopolitics is a politics which has life for its object, a closer analysis of the courses he gave at the Collège de France on this topic, as well as of the other seminars and papers of this period, shows that he took a quite different direction, restricting it to the regulation of population. The aim of this article is to return to the origins of the concept and to confront the issue of life as such. This implies four shifts with respect to Foucault’s theory: (1) Politics is not only about the rules of the game of governing, but also about its stakes. (2) More than the power over life, contemporary societies are characterized by the legitimacy they attach to life. (3) Rather than a normalizing process, the intervention in lives is a production of inequalities. (4) The politics of life, then, is not only a question of governmentality and technologies, but also of meaning and values. The discussion is grounded on a series of empirical investigations conducted in France and South Africa on how life and lives are treated in our world.
The Sociology of Vocational Prizes
Authors: Heinich Nathalie
Published: August 2009

Artistic and scientific activities pertain to the world of ‘vocation’, which demonstrates a close relationship with recognition issues. Referring to recent trends in French, German and American sociology and political philosophy, this article addresses both the status of recognition in present-day sociology and the necessity of prizes in vocational activities. Grounded on two empirical surveys about literary and scientific prizes, it displays the various axiological problems raised by such a mode of recognition, as the ‘felicity conditions’ of this mode of recognition have to ensure a feeling of justice and avoid envious reactions. On a more theoretical ground, the article aims to demonstrate the necessity for sociology to shift, first, from material to ‘symbolic’ or, rather, ‘intangible’ outcomes; second, from a concern with power and domination to a concern with interdependency; and third, from recognition conceived as egalitarian respect to recognition conceived as un-egalitarian esteem.
The Bridge From Then to Now: Tibetan Elders Living in Diaspora
Authors: Wangmo Tenzin , Teaster Pamela B.
Published: August 2009

This study presents how older Tibetan refugees have adapted to changing social and economic conditions in India. Participant observation and open-ended interview questions were used to explore life experiences of 14 older Tibetans living in India who participated in this study. Findings revealed that, after having to abandon familiar environments, these participants underwent harsh times in India but have adapted well. They have secured meaningful lives for themselves. Availability of children and institutional resources has proved beneficial at old age. Participants with children perceived that they were well cared for, which added to their satisfaction with present circumstances. However, those without children did not have any source of support and were dissatisfied. Religious activity was important for these participants. The ability to freely practice religion contributed to their satisfaction in exile. These findings are instructive for the treatment and acceptance of refugees throughout the world by contributing to the field of refugee aging and adaptation.
Melatonin levels and enzymatic antioxidant defense system decrease in blood of patients with bronchial asthma
Authors: Gumral N , Calıskan S , Ozgüner F , Kaleli S , Akkaya A , Yılmaz H , Sen S
Published: August 2009

The etiology of bronchial asthma (BA) is not clearly understood. In recent years, a few studies have investigated the possible role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the etiology of BA. There are some defense mechanisms in the organism to avoid the harmful effects of ROS. Melatonin (MEL) is synthesized by the pineal gland at night and exhibits antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to investigate serum MEL levels, erythrocyte antioxidant enzyme activities, namely superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and the association of the respiratory function tests, namely dynamic lung volumes; the forced vital capacity (FVC/L, FVC%), the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1/L, FEV1%), and peak expiratory flow (PEF/L/s, PEF%) in 30 patients with BA and 30 age-matched healthy controls. The levels of serum MEL, the activities of erythrocyte SOD, and the values of FVC/L, FVC%, FEV1/L, and FEV1% were significantly lower in the patients with BA than in control group. The positive correlations were observed between FVC% with erythrocyte SOD and GSH-Px, FEV1/L as well as FEV1% with erythrocyte SOD, whereas negative correlation was observed between PEF/L/s with levels of serum MEL. In conclusion, these results provide some evidence for a potential role of decreased antioxidant enzymes, MEL, and respiratory function test values in BA.
The protective effect of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on oxidative stress in rat liver exposed to the 900 MHz electromagnetic field
Authors: Koyu A , Ozguner F , Yilmaz HR , Uz E , Cesur G , Ozcelik N
Published: August 2009

In this study, we aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on lipid peroxidation (LPO) and the activities of antioxidant enzymes in the liver of rats exposed to the 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF). EMF of cellular phones may affect biological systems by increasing free radical, which appear mainly to enhance LPO, and by changing the antioxidative activities of liver, thus leading to oxidative damage. CAPE, an active component of propolis extract, exhibits antioxidant properties and several studies suggest that supplementation with antioxidant can influence EMF exposure induced hepatotoxicity. Thirty male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into three groups: control ( n = 10), 900 MHz EMF ( n = 10) and 900 MHz EMF + CAPE ( n = 10). CAPE was injected intraperitoneally for 30 days before exposure to EMF. Liver tissue was removed to study the activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), xanthine oxidase (XO) and the levels of LPO. The activities of XO, CAT and level of LPO increased in the 900 MHz electromagnetic field (EMF) group compared with the control group, although XO, CAT activities and LPO levels were decreased by 900 MHz EMF + CAPE administration. The activities of SOD and GSH-Px decreased in the 900 MHz EMF group compared with the control group, although their levels were increased by EMF + CAPE administration. It can be concluded that CAPE may prevent the 900 MHz EMF-induced oxidative changes in liver by strengthening the antioxidant defense system by reducing reactive oxygen species and increasing antioxidant enzyme activities.