bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Fas-associated death domain recruitment by histone deacetylase inhibitors is critical for the sensitization of chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis
Authors: Inoue Satoshi , Harper Nick , Walewska Renata , Dyer Martin J.S. , Cohen Gerald M.
Published: November 2009

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is an incurable disease characterized by failure of mature lymphocytes to undergo apoptosis. CLL cells are inherently resistant to tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL). Pretreatment with histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) sensitizes CLL cells to TRAIL-mediated apoptosis primarily via TRAIL-R1 and offers a novel approach for the therapy of CLL and other malignancies. Depsipeptide (romidepsin), a HDACi, did not enhance TRAIL binding to TRAIL-R1, TRAIL-R1 aggregation, or internalization of TRAIL-R1, but it enhanced Fas-associated death domain protein (FADD) recruitment to TRAIL-R1 in the death-inducing signaling complex. Cotreatment with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), a protein kinase C (PKC) activator, dramatically inhibited the HDACi-mediated increase in FADD recruitment and sensitization to TRAIL-induced apoptosis and both of these were reversed by PKC inhibitors. Thus, enhanced FADD recruitment is a critical step in HDACi-mediated sensitization of CLL cells to TRAIL-induced apoptosis and this step is differentially affected by HDACi and phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate. Using biotinylated TRAIL and streptactin-tagged TRAIL, we have identified several novel TRAIL receptor interacting proteins, including PKCβ, lymphocyte-specific protease-1, Lyn, and Syk. These molecules may play an as yet unappreciated role in TRAIL signaling in CLL cells and inhibition of one or more of these kinases/phosphatases may provide a novel target to overcome TRAIL resistance. [Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(11):3088–97]
A phase I trial of paclitaxel and trastuzumab in combination with interleukin-12 in patients with HER2/neu-expressing malignancies
Authors: Bekaii-Saab Tanios S. , Roda Julie M. , Guenterberg Kristan D. , Ramaswamy Bhuvanaswari , Young Donn C. , Ferketich Amy K. , Lamb Tammy A. , Grever Michael R. , Shapiro Charles L. , Carson William E.
Published: November 2009

Our preclinical work showed a dramatic synergy between interleukin-12 (IL-12) and trastuzumab for stimulation of natural killer cell cytokine secretion. We aimed to determine the safety profile of IL-12 when given in combination with trastuzumab and paclitaxel to patients with metastatic HER2-overexpressing cancers. Paclitaxel was given i.v. at 175 mg/m2 every 3 weeks. Trastuzumab was given on day 1 each week (4 mg/kg initially and 2 mg/kg thereafter) in combination with injections of IL-12 on days 2 and 5 starting in cycle 2. This trial accrued 21 patients with metastatic HER2-positive tumors (breast, 7; colon, 6; esophagus, 4; stomach, 2; pancreas, 1; thyroid, 1). The IL-12 component was dose-escalated in cohorts of three patients. The dose-limiting toxicity was grade 3 fatigue at the 300 ng/kg dose level in two patients. The recommended phase II dose was 200 ng/kg administered s.c. There was one complete response in a patient with breast cancer, partial responses in 4 patients (breast, 2; esophageal, 2), and stabilization of disease lasting 3 months or greater (SD) in 6 other patients. All but one response occurred in patients with HER2 3+ disease. Two SD patients completed 1 year of therapy. Ten patients had progressive disease. There was increased activation of extracellular signal–regulated kinase in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and increased levels of IFN-γ and several chemokines in patients with clinical benefit (complete response, partial response, or SD), but not in patients with progressive disease. IL-12 in combination with trastuzumab and paclitaxel therefore exhibits an acceptable toxicity profile and has activity in patients with HER2-overexpressing cancers. [Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(11):2983–91]
Fibulin-3 Is Uniquely Upregulated in Malignant Gliomas and Promotes Tumor Cell Motility and Invasion
Authors: Hu Bin , Thirtamara-Rajamani Keerthi K. , Sim Hosung , Viapiano Mariano S.
Published: November 2009

Malignant gliomas are highly invasive tumors with an almost invariably rapid and lethal outcome. Surgery and chemoradiotherapy fail to remove resistant tumor cells that disperse within normal tissue, which are a major cause for disease progression and therapy failure. Infiltration of the neural parenchyma is a distinctive property of malignant gliomas compared with other solid tumors. Thus, glioma cells are thought to produce unique molecular changes that remodel the neural extracellular matrix and form a microenvironment permissive for their motility. Here, we describe the unique expression and proinvasive role of fibulin-3, a mesenchymal matrix protein specifically upregulated in gliomas. Fibulin-3 is downregulated in peripheral tumors and is thought to inhibit tumor growth. However, we found fibulin-3 highly upregulated in gliomas and cultured glioma cells, although the protein was undetectable in normal brain or cultured astrocytes. Overexpression and knockdown experiments revealed that fibulin-3 did not seem to affect glioma cell morphology or proliferation, but enhanced substrate-specific cell adhesion and promoted cell motility and dispersion in organotypic cultures. Moreover, orthotopic implantation of fibulin-3–overexpressing glioma cells resulted in diffuse tumors with increased volume and rostrocaudal extension compared with controls. Tumors and cultured cells overexpressing fibulin-3 also showed elevated expression and activity of matrix metalloproteases, such as MMP-2/MMP-9 and ADAMTS-5. Taken together, our results suggest that fibulin-3 has a unique expression and protumoral role in gliomas, and could be a potential target against tumor progression. Strategies against this glioma-specific matrix component could disrupt invasive mechanisms and restrict the dissemination of these tumors. (Mol Cancer Res 2009;7(11):1756–70)
Surveillance and Screening of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
Authors: El Fouly Amr , Dêchene Alexander , Gerken Guido
Published: November 2009

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) represents an idiopathic chronic cholestatic liver disease due to inflammatory destruction of the biliary tree. Clinically, the progressive disease leads to biliary cirrhosis in association with cholangiocarcinoma in 6–20% of the patients. Currently, liver transplantation remains the only life-extending treatment option in end-stage disease. However, due to the high risk of carcinoma development, PSC patients should be tightly screened and evaluated including newer technologies like endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy and cholangioscopy including cytology and direct biopsy of the biliary mucosal lesions.
Medical Management of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Rogler Gerhard
Published: November 2009

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic and relapsing inflammation limited to the colonic mucosa and always involving the rectum with variable extension towards the cecum. The aim of medical treatment is to induce and maintain clinical remission. In contrast to Crohn’s disease for which a ‘top-down’ or ‘early aggressive’ therapy is discussed, in UC the concept of a step-up treatment is still valid. This step-up approach includes local or systemic administration of 5-aminosalicylic acid as first-line therapy followed by topical or systemic steroid administration as well as azathioprine, 6-mercaptopurine, cyclosporine, and more recently anti-tumor necrosis factor monoclonal antibodies as options in refractory or chronic active disease. Colectomy may be necessary if medical treatments are unsuccessful or if complications develop. The decision about the individual therapy of UC is dependent on both disease activity and on disease location. Different therapy strategies are applied in ulcerative proctitis, left-sided colitis, pancolitis and fulminant colitis as well as in chronic active disease and maintenance of remission. This overview presents important concepts in the treatment of UC based on the published guidelines.
Treatment Algorithms in the Case of Perianal Complications of Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Lozynskyy Y.S.
Published: November 2009

Aim: To construct an algorithm of the treatment tactics which would include modern conservative and surgical methods. Materials and Methods: Endoscopy under anesthesia, endorectal ultrasonography, histological and radiological examinations, MRT. In the last 22 years, 310 patients with Crohn’s disease (CD) have been treated in our clinic of which 144 had perianal complications (60 fissure, 52 fistula, 61 perianal abscess). Results: The treatment of perianal abscesses is opening and drainage, followed by conservative treatment (local and systemic). Using conservative treatment for patients with fissure, clinical remission was attained in 45 (75%); another 15 patients (25%) were operated using Maslyak’s method. We have not conducted surgical treatment of fissures for the last 5 years. 51 patients with fistulas were operated on. When the malignization was confirmed, we conducted extirpation of the rectum or coloproctectomy. Recurrence of CD was observed in 65 patients (45.1%) during the first 2 years after the beginning treatment and in 128 patients (88.9%) during 5 years. CDAI varied from 150 to 450. PCDAI was in the range of 5–20. Conclusions: (1) Planned surgical treatment of perianal complications requires complex examination of the gastrointestinal tract; (2) pararectal fistulas should be operated in the period of complete remission; (3) surgical treatment of perianal complications should be microinvasive, using non-cutting seton, fistulotomy and advancement flap, and (4) coloproctectomy is the final stage of treatment of perianal CD in severe cases.
On the Mechanisms Underlying 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine Toxicity: The Dilemma of the Chicken and the Egg
Authors: Puerta E. , Hervias I. , Aguirre N.
Published: November 2009

Administration of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ecstasy) to various experimental animals has been shown to induce a selective damage to serotonergic axon terminals. While a great consensus appears to exist regarding the causative role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the mechanisms underlying MDMA toxicity, the source of free radicals is still a matter of debate. While some authors support dopamine metabolism/oxidation inside 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) terminals as the key factor responsible for ROS formation and final 5-HT terminal degeneration, others believe it is MDMA metabolism into pro-oxidant compounds. Although at first sight both hypotheses appear to contend with each other, it may not be the case. This mini-review was therefore undertaken to try to reconcile both hypotheses and to address the dilemma of the causality of MDMA neurotoxicity.
Small Artery Remodeling: Current Concepts and Questions
Authors: van den Akker Jeroen , Schoorl Marieke J.C. , Bakker Erik N.T.P. , vanBavel Ed
Published: November 2009

Blood flow regulation by small arteries and arterioles includes adaptation of both vascular tone and structure. It is becoming clear that tone and remodeling of resistance vessels are highly interrelated. Indeed, concepts pointing to continuous resistance artery adaptation and plasticity are emerging. The purpose of this review is to summarize such concepts and approaches related to vascular organization and remodeling, and to point out the missing links and possible directions for future research. We focus on the individual vessel level. Since several relevant studies are based on isolated vessels, we briefly re-iterate the available isobaric and isometric approaches. We further discuss the major elements of the small artery wall and their relation to the passive and active mechanical properties, as important determinants for vascular remodeling. The cytoskeletal elements and actin re-organization during remodeling are discussed, as well as the re-lengthening of smooth muscle cells during prolonged constriction. We then consider tone as major causal factors in remodeling and discuss the role of vessel wall inflammation. Finally, we illustrate examples of current quantitative, integrative approaches of small artery mechanosensing and adaptation that may lead to a physiomics description of small artery adaptation in health and in diseases such as hypertension.
Effects of Local Corticosteroids in Skin Infections
Authors: Raab W.
Published: November 2009

Glucocorticoids exert valuable therapeutic activities in skin infections, although their use is limited by the occurrence of undesiderable effects: glucocorticoids depress the local defence mechanisms and, in low concentrations, stimulate microbial metabolism. For these reasons, combined preparations containing an antimicrobial substance besides the glucocorticoid are recommended. However, interactions between the steroids and the antimicrobials must be ruled out beforehand, i.e. the unimpaired activity of both steroid and antimicrobial must be assured. Examples of such investigations are reported for the most widely used compounds for topical therapy. The simultaneous use of a glucocorticoid and an antimicrobial is not recommended in only a few instances.
Effect of Bases and Accelerants on the Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Topical Corticosteroids
Authors: Sarkany I. , Gaylarde P.M.
Published: November 2009

The use of measurement of skin thickness in guinea pigs has been compared with other techniques for assessment of topical applications. This method has provided us with an accurate evaluation of the corticosteroid dose-response curve and the effect of bases. The method has shown that non-steroid prostaglandin synthesis inhibitors can also be demonstrated to possess topical anti-inflammatory activity. As expected, indomethacin acts synergistically when formulated with hydrocortisone. Contrary to our expectation, both salicylic acid and acetylsalicylic acid show antagonism with hydrocortisone. This finding may be of clinical significance. We have also found that a combination of salicylic acid and indomethacin produces striking inflammatory changes in guinea pig skin which points to interaction of these two drugs in the guinea pig. The relevance of this phenomenon to both the mode of action of the two drugs and their use in clinical practice remains to be elucidated, but preliminary tests suggest that similar changes take place in human skin.
Vasoconstriction in Response to Corticosteroids Observed in Human Lips
Authors: Stüttgen G.
Published: November 2009

Following epimucous application of corticosteroids on the lips, narrowing and shortening of the terminal network of vessels occurs within 5–7 min. The decrease in infrared radiation needs a few more minutes. Contrary to the application of epinephrine-like substances, the change of the vessels occurs first in the superficial layers and only later on in the deeper layers. In addition to the effect on the muscles of the vessels, a narrowing of the capillaries can also be influenced by the effect of corticosteroids on the endothelial cells. Changes of the ground substance of the capillary vessel bed are also a possibility.
Electron-Microscopic Evaluation of Collagen Fibrils after Topical Corticosteroid Therapy
Authors: Groniowska M. , Dabrowski J. , Maciejewski W. , Walski M.
Published: November 2009

A method used to assess the atrophogenic effect of steroids by electron microscopy after ruthenium red staining is described. In two patients more atrophy was observed after fluocinolone treatment than after hydrocortisone 17-butyrate treatment.
Perioral Dermatitis, an Important Side-Effect of Corticosteroids
Authors: Weber Gerhard
Published: November 2009

Perioral dermatitis has been ascribed to the use of oral contraceptives, cosmetics, toothpastes or to an infection with Candida or Fusobacteria, etc. However, seborrheic diathesis, together with the use of potent topical steroids, appeared to be the main cause of the affection. This was confirmed with the help of a number of observations in the clinic and by inference from data regarding the geographical spread of the potent steroids.
Clinical Experiences with Hydrocortisone 17-Butyrate
Authors: Yasuda T.
Published: November 2009

In a double-blind comparative study, by 29 dermatological departments, the activity of hydrocortisone 17-butyrate (HC 17-B, Locoid®), triamcinolone acetonide (TA) 0.1% and hydrocortisone 21-acetate (HA) 1%, were compared in patients suffering from acute eczematous dermatitis, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis. After a 7-day period of observation, the results were evaluated by means of a χ2 test, and an Armitage test. The following results were obtained: in acute eczematous dermatitis HC 17-B was found to be superior to the placebo and equal to TA; in atopic dermatitis HC 17-B was found to be superior to the placebo and HA, equal to TA; in psoriasis vulgaris HC 17-B was found to be superior to the placebo, HA and TA.
Roles of Inflammation and the Activated Protein C Pathway in the Brain Edema Associated With Cerebral Venous Sinus Thrombosis
Authors: Nagai Mutsumi , Terao Satoshi , Yilmaz Gokhan , Yilmaz Cigdem E. , Esmon Charles T. , Watanabe Eiju , Granger D. Neil
Published: November 2009

Background and Purpose—

Increased blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability, brain edema, and hemorrhage are important consequences of cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). The objective of this study was to define the role of the protein C pathway in the BBB permeability and edema elicited by experimental CVST. The role of neutrophil recruitment was also evaluated.

Methods—

Edema, BBB permeability, leukocyte-endothelial cell adhesion (LECA) and inflammatory cytokine levels were monitored in a murine model of CVST. The role of activated protein C (APC) was assessed in wild type mice (WT) receiving APC neutralizing antibody and in endothelial protein C receptor overexpressing mice (EPCR-tg). Neutrophil involvement was evaluated using an anti-CD18 antibody (Ab) and antineutrophil serum.

Results—

Brain edema and increases in BBB permeability and LECA were noted 48 hours after CVST. APC immunoblockade exacerbated these responses, while EPCR-tg exhibited blunted responses, as did WT treated with either antineutrophil serum or the CD18 Ab.

Conclusions—

The protein C pathway protects the brain against the deleterious microvascular responses to CVST, a response that appears to be linked to the recruitment of inflammatory cells.
Probing the Uncanny Valley with the Eye Size Aftereffect
Authors: Seyama Jun'ichiro , Nagayama Ruth S
Published: November 2009

Natural human faces with abnormal visual features produce uncomfortable impressions, but artificial faces (e.g., robotic faces) do not necessarily do so. This is an example of the phenomenon called the uncanny valley. We hypothesized that this phenomenon indicates that natural and artificial faces are processed by different perceptual mechanisms, or they are processed differently by common mechanisms. We tested these hypotheses using a facial aftereffect where prolonged observation of adaptation faces with enlarged eyes induced a bias to underestimate the eye size of test faces. The results showed that adaptation to natural stimuli induced the aftereffect for both natural and artificial test stimuli. This suggests that the two types of faces engage common perceptual mechanisms. Adaptation to artificial stimuli also induced the aftereffect for natural test stimuli. However, artificial stimuli required a longer adaptation period (120 s) for the aftereffect to be induced compared to natural stimuli (60 s), suggesting that the processing of artificial faces by the human visual system may be inefficient. The uncanny valley may reflect that artificial faces are processed inefficiently by perceptual mechanisms that are common for processing natural and artificial faces.
The Concord School of Philosophy and the Legacy of Transcendentalism
Authors: Ronda Bruce
Published: November 2009

During its ten summer sessions (1879–88), the Concord School of Philosophy attracted hundreds of attendees who, for intellectual improvement and a glimpse of aging transcendentalists, endured lectures on the classics, philosophy, and comparative religions. This essay explores reporters', attendees', and school leaders' attitudes toward transcendentalism, suggesting why the school sought to downplay the antebellum movement's radical implications.
Expecting the Impossible? Abolitionist Appeals to the Irish in Antebellum America
Authors: Quinn John F.
Published: November 2009

When examining the divide that existed between Irish immigrants and abolitionists in the antebellum era, some historians have blamed the abolitionists, accusing them of harboring anti-Catholic views. In reality, William Lloyd Garrison and most antislavery stalwarts were well disposed toward Irish Catholics and made several attempts to reach out to them in the 1830s and '40s.
"Born of God" or "Begotten by God"?: A Translation Problem in the Johannine Writings
Authors: Menken Maarten
Published: November 2009

How should the Johannine expression εκ τoυ εoυ γεννασαı be translated: as "to be born of God" or as "to be begotten by God"? The article starts with a look at the translation of the relevant Johannine passages in Bible translations and biblical studies, to get an idea of the spread and the influence of the two possible translations. Next, relevant lexical, grammatical and exegetical considerations are presented; these lead to the conclusion that the translation "to be begotten by God" has to be preferred. Finally, some further thoughts on the Johannine idea of divine begetting are developed.
Le style, c'est l'homme: Aesthetics and Apologetics in the Stylistic Analysis of the New Testament
Authors: Mitchell Margaret
Published: November 2009

This article, through a critical assessment of Marius Reiser's Sprache und literarische Formen des Neuen Testaments: Eine Einführung, seeks to raise larger questions about what is at stake in stylistic analysis of the New Testament writings and about what values and assumptions undergird and guide such studies.
Non‐Linear Fracture Study of Glass Fibre Reinforced Polymer Composites Using a Tapered Double Cantilever Beam
Authors: Rizov V. , Mladensky A.
Published: November 2009

Mode I static fracture behavior of polymer composites is studied using the tapered double cantilever beam test method. A non‐linear three‐dimensional finite element model is developed to analyze the test data. The fracture toughness is evaluated using a J‐integral approach. A non‐uniform distribution of the J‐integral value along the crack front is obtained with maximum at the mid‐plane of the specimen. It is shown that taking into account the damage induced non‐linear behavior improves the fracture toughness. This is explained with increased strain energy dissipation as a result of the non‐linear behavior.
Thermal Analysis of a Continuous Flow Polymerase Chain Reaction Microdevice Using Analytical Finite Element Simulation
Authors: Wah Lee Hing , Abdul Azid Ishak , Narasimha Seetharamu Kankanhally
Published: November 2009

A simplified general purpose analytical finite element model has been developed to analyze the thermal performance of a continuous flow polymerase chain reaction (CPCR) microdevice. The corresponding governing differential equations along with the appropriate boundary conditions have been solved using a self‐developed code in Matlab®. Results obtained from the finite element simulations have been validated with available published results and also showed good agreement with those obtained from commercial FEA package, ANSYS®. The present methodology has an added advantage due to its flexibility where the unit cell of the finite element model can be arranged into different orientation for analyses of different CPCR microdevice configuration. In microchannel heat sinks, the results obtained agree well with the published result which demonstrates the flexibility and robustness of present methodology to be used for various applications.
Obtaining Creep Damage of Aluminum Alloy 2A12 by Using Indentation Method with Different Indenters
Authors: Zhao Bin
Published: November 2009

Indentation tests performed in creep damage materials show that slopes of initial portions of unloading curves which are often used to calculate indented modulus can characterize creep damage. To evaluate the influence of different indenters in determining creep damage, conical, spherical and cylindrical indenters which are all self‐similar in shape were considered by using the Finite Element Method (FEM). Indentation load (P)‐displacement (h) curves and equivalent elastic modulus ( E * )‐creep damage (ω) curves were given. Results show that the cylindrical indenter is appropriate for “soft” materials, the conical indenter is suitable for small creep damage materials, and the spherical indenter can be used in many other materials.
Effect of Dielectric Layer of a Distributed‐Type Inorganic High‐luminosity Electroluminescent Panel
Authors: Satoh Toshifumi
Published: November 2009

The inorganic high‐luminosity electroluminescent (EL) panel used in this study is a distributed‐type EL panel, which can be produced using a printing technique. We obtained a panel with a high luminosity of 7940 cd/m2 at 6 kHz. In addition, we believed that the panel temperature and luminosity of this panel were closely related. Therefore, we considered the relationship between the temperature change in the dielectric layer and the luminosity since this relationship is responsible for the supply of electric charge to the phosphor layer. A change in the amount of electric charge by heating in a high‐voltage domain originates at the Curie point of BaTiO3 ferroelectric particles. This indicates that the influence of BaTiO3 was strong.
Pre-clinical Models for Oral and Periodontal Reconstructive Therapies
Authors: Pellegrini G. , Seol Y.J. , Gruber R. , Giannobile W.V.
Published: November 2009

The development of new medical formulations (NMF) for reconstructive therapies has considerably improved the available treatment options for individuals requiring periodontal repair or oral implant rehabilitation. Progress in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine modalities strongly depends on validated pre-clinical research. Pre-clinical testing has contributed to the recent approval of NMF such as GEM 21S® and INFUSE® bone grafts for periodontal and oral regenerative therapies. However, the selection of a suitable pre-clinical model for evaluation of the safety and efficacy of a NMF remains a challenge. This review is designed to serve as a primer to choose the appropriate pre-clinical models for the evaluation of NMF in situations requiring periodontal or oral reconstruction. Here, we summarize commonly used pre-clinical models and provide examples of screening and functional studies of NMF that can be translated into clinical use.
Brownfield Development: A Comparison of North American and British Approaches
Authors: Adams David , De Sousa Christopher , Tiesdell Steven
Published: November 2009

Over the past 30—40 years, urban change and deindustrialisation in advanced economies have created a legacy of vacant and derelict land that is increasingly seen as a development opportunity rather than planning problem. This paper investigates how the shared challenge of bringing such brownfield sites back into productive use has been interpreted differently in four countries: the US, Canada, Scotland and England. In each case, the particular policy environment has shaped the brownfield debate in distinctive ways, producing a different set of relations between the public and private sectors in brownfield redevelopment. Through this detailed comparison of the North American and British experience, the paper traces the maturity of policy and seeks to discover whether the main differences in understanding and tackling brownfield land can be attributed primarily to physical, cultural or institutional factors.
Facilitating musical composition as ‘contract learning’ in the classroom: the development and application of a teaching resource for primary school teachers in the UK
Authors: Clennon Ornette D.
Published: November 2009

Despite national initiatives in the UK such as Creative Partnerships, an organization formed in 2002 for exploring creative approaches to learning in the classroom, there is still a gap between aspiration and practice. This is especially evident in the teaching of musical composition in primary schools, partly because there seems to be a profound fear of music, especially for many primary school teachers who are not music specialists, and a lack of knowledge of participatory practice. This article describes the development of a resource for facilitating compositional processes using classroom management skills, as adapted from Knowles’s ‘contract learning’. I will also highlight the creative tensions raised by the sometimes conflicting approaches of instruction and facilitation.
Can improvisation be ‘taught’?: A call for free improvisation in our schools
Authors: Hickey Maud
Published: November 2009

The purpose of this article is to present the idea that the music education profession’s current drive to include improvisation in school music is limited in its approach, and that teaching improvisation, in the traditional sense, is not possible. These beliefs are based on an examination of current methodologies and texts in light of the historical evolution of both improvisation and the teaching of improvisation. The article provides an examination of Jeff Pressing’s historical conceptions of improvisation as a continuum model and then briefly looks at the short history of improvisation in American music education in the 20th century. Current methods are examined in light of free improvisation techniques. This leads to a final argument for more free improvisation in school music balanced with the current skills approach used in the USA. The conclusion of this article examines the issues and realities for current practices in music education in light of the beliefs set forth.
Orff and the ‘ivory tower’: fostering critique as a mode of legitimation
Authors: Locke Terry
Published: November 2009

This article begins by recounting the development and implementation of a unique, mutual agreement between the School of Education at the University of Waikato and Orff New Zealand Aotearoa (ONZA) to develop three master’s-level courses in Orff Music Education: Theory and Practice. The rationale for this project is detailed and related to changing conceptions of postgraduate study and debates about continuing ‘professional learning’ for teachers. It is argued that at the heart of the exercise is a problematic around theorization. How can an approach to pedagogy such as Orff Schulwerk be incorporated into a programme that demands critical reflexivity? A number of ‘solutions’ to this problematic are provided. A case is made that involves teachers (as practitioners and prospective researchers) in addressing this problematic and will have positive consequences for Orff Schulwerk in New Zealand (and beyond), and for debates about classroom pedagogy in general.
Mass Communication Tapping into Participatory Culture
Authors: Enli Gunn Sara
Published: November 2009

■ Exploring the vote-in formats Strictly Come Dancing and Britain’s Got Talent, this article examines how mass communication is changing as a result of audience involvement via digital platforms. The central argument is that feedback opportunities provided by new technology represents new ways of connecting with the audience, and thus new challenges for the TV industry. ■
Hybrid inclusion — the new consumerism of Danish welfare services
Authors: Højlund Holger
Published: November 2009

Over the last decade, fundamental changes have occurred in Denmark with regard to welfare structures. These changes have taken place in the sectors of social care and health where decision-making structures have been reformed to become more consumer-oriented. This article examines elderly-care services specifically in order to explore how changes in decision making have altered structures of inclusion. The analysis is based on systems theory, which allows an exploration of how each of three decision-making systems has particular conditions for participation and inclusion. The article argues that inclusion has assumed a hybrid form.
Sphagnum δ13C values as indicators of palaeohydrological changes in a peat bog
Authors: Loisel Julie , Garneau Michelle , Hélie Jean-François
Published: November 2009

Late-Holocene peat stratigraphy of a Canadian boreal peat bog was examined to evaluate the potential of Sphagnum δ13C values as surface moisture proxy indicators. Isotopic measurements were compared to testate amoebae-inferred water-table depth reconstructions, plant macrofossil assemblages and past decomposition levels inferred by colorimetric humification. AMS radiocarbon dates were coupled with 210Pb dates to establish peat chronology. Although the mechanisms underlying carbon fractionation processes in peatlands are not well understood, we demonstrate that Sphagnum δ 13C values have potential for palaeohydrological reconstructions, since variations presented by the isotopic values can generally be correlated with the other proxy records, especially during drier episodes.
Applying a Sociolinguistic Model to the Analysis of Informed Consent Documents
Authors: Granero-Molina José , Fernández-Sola Cayetano , Aguilera-Manrique Gabriel
Published: November 2009

Information on the risks and benefits related to surgical procedures is essential for patients in order to obtain their informed consent. Some disciplines, such as sociolinguistics, offer insights that are helpful for patient—professional communication in both written and oral consent. Communication difficulties become more acute when patients make decisions through an informed consent document because they may sign this with a lack of understanding and information, and consequently feel deprived of their freedom to make their choice about different treatments or surgery. This article discusses findings from documentary analysis using the sociolinguistic SPEAKING model, which was applied to the general and specific informed consent documents required for laparoscopic surgery of the bile duct at Torrecárdenas Hospital, Almería, Spain. The objective of this procedure was to identify flaws when information was provided, together with its readability, its voluntary basis, and patients’ consent. The results suggest potential linguistic communication difficulties, different languages being used, cultural clashes, asymmetry of communication between professionals and patients, assignment of rights on the part of patients, and overprotection of professionals and institutions.
Moral Distress: Inability to Act or Discomfort with Moral Subjectivity?
Authors: Repenshek Mark
Published: November 2009

Amidst the wealth of literature on the topic of moral distress in nursing, a single citation is ubiquitous, Andrew Jameton’s 1984 book Nursing practice. The definition Jameton formulated reads ‘... moral distress arises when one knows the right thing to do, but institutional constraints make it nearly impossible to pursue the right course of action’. Unfortunately, it appears that, despite the frequent use of Jameton’s definition of moral distress, the definition itself remains uncritically examined. It seems as if the context of how moral distress arises (i.e. anger, frustration etc.) has been co-opted as its definition. This current work suggests that the current definition is not moral distress as defined by Jameton, but rather, in large part, nursing’s discomfort with moral subjectivity in end-of-life decision making. A critical examination of how the Catholic tradition’s normative ethical framework accounts for moral subjectivity in end-of-life decision making serves to aid nursing’s discomfort and as a starting point to recontextualize moral distress.
Culture and Organizational Climate: Nurses’ Insights Into Their Relationship With Physicians
Authors: Malloy David Cruise , Hadjistavropoulos Thomas , McCarthy Elizabeth Fahey , Evans Robin J , Zakus Dwight H , Park Illyeok , Lee Yongho , Williams Jaime
Published: November 2009

Within any organization (e.g. a hospital or clinic) the perception of the way things operate may vary dramatically as a function of one’s location in the organizational hierarchy as well as one’s professional discipline. Interorganizational variability depends on organizational coherence, safety, and stability. In this four-nation (Canada, Ireland, Australia, and Korea) qualitative study of 42 nurses, we explored their perception of how ethical decisions are made, the nurses’ hospital role, and the extent to which their voices were heard. These nurses suggested that their voices were silenced (often voluntarily) or were not expressed in terms of ethical decision making. Finally, they perceived that their approach to ethical decision making differed from physicians.
Ethical Considerations of Teaching Spirituality in the Academy
Authors: Becker Annette L
Published: November 2009

Despite evidence in college students indicating a hunger for spiritual insight and spirituality’s application in health care, there continues to be guardedness within the academy towards inclusion of curricula that address spirituality. The purpose of this article is to examine the ethical considerations of teaching spirituality in the academy by describing current trends, issues relevant to nursing education and practice, legitimate concerns of the academy, and the importance of an ethical instructional response when teaching about spirituality. Data supporting the interest and desire by students to explore meaning and purpose in the context of spirituality will be presented. Challenges and barriers inherent in teaching this topic will be described, including the affective response, the lack of a universally accepted definition of spirituality, and spirituality’s relationship to religion. Pedagogical strategies consistent with an ethical instructional response will be discussed as the key to eliciting trust within the academy. A model of teaching spirituality and health will be offered to illustrate these possibilities.
Ethical Considerations in Cross-Linguistic Nursing
Authors: Carnevale Franco A , Vissandjée Bilkis , Nyland Amy , Vinet-Bonin Ariane
Published: November 2009

This article reviews empirical evidence and ethical norms in cross-linguistic nursing. Empirical evidence highlights that linguistic barriers between nurses and patients can perpetuate discrimination and compromise nursing care. There are significant organizational and relational challenges involved in ensuring adequate use of interpreters by nurses. Some evidence suggests that linguistic barriers are particularly problematic for nurses when compared with physicians. A comparative analysis of nursing ethical norms for cross-linguistic nursing was conducted using the codes of ethics of the American Nurses Association, the Canadian Nurses Association, and the International Council of Nurses. Five principal ethical norms for cross-linguistic nursing were identified: (1) respect for the patient as a unique person; (2) respect for the patient’s right to self-determination; (3) respect for patient privacy and confidentiality; (4) responsibility for one’s own competence, judgment, and action; and (5) responsibility to promote action better to meet the needs of patients, families, and groups.
Youth Assets and Sexual Risk Behavior: Differences Between Male and Female Adolescents
Authors: Mueller Trisha , Gavin Lorrie , Oman Roy , Vesely Sara , Aspy Cheryl , Tolma Eleni , Rodine Sharon
Published: November 2009

Youth internal assets and external resources are protective factors that can help youth avoid potentially harmful behaviors. This study investigates how the relationship between youth assets or resources and two sexual risk behaviors (ever had sex and birth control use) varied by gender. Data were collected through in-home interviews from parent—adolescent dyads, including 1,219 females and 1,116 males. Important differences exist between male and female adolescents. Females with the nonparental role models or the family communication resource were more likely to report never having had sexual intercourse than were females without the resources. Among males, the aspirations for the future and responsible choices assets were associated with never having had sexual intercourse. Males and females had two assets or resources in common that were protective of never having had sex: peer role models and use of time (religion). Considering which youth assets and resources are more likely to positively influence sexual behaviors of males and females may be important when planning prevention programs with youth.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Intrapericardial Teratoma
Authors: Smyth Britt C.
Published: November 2009

Congenital cardiac masses are rare, with rhabdomyoma being the most common cardiac tumor occurring in the fetus. Intrapericardial teratomas are the second most common congenital cardiac mass, although reports of prenatal diagnosis in the existing literature are rare. Rapid growth of pericardial teratomas usually occurs after 20 weeks’ gestation, resulting in pericardial effusion and hydrops fetalis. Fetuses diagnosed with pericardial teratomas have a poor prognosis, with surgery being the only definitive treatment option.
Evaluation of Ultrasonic Scores in Differential Diagnosis of Breast Solid Lesions
Authors: Su Yanxin , An Tingting , Wang Dawei , Tian Jiawei
Published: November 2009

The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of ultrasonic scores in the differential diagnosis of breast solid lesions. In all, 135 lesions of 125 cases were analyzed, including 62 benign lesions and 73 malignant lesions. Pathology was used as the gold-standard diagnostic criterion. All the sonographic features of breast lesions were recorded routinely by high-frequency sonography, every feature was graded, and the total scores for each lesion were calculated. The results indicated that there were significant differences in ultrasonic scores between benign and malignant lesions in the shape, margin, capsule, attenuation, microcalcification, and blood flow ( P < .001), and there were differences in ultrasonic scores in the length-to-width ratio and internal echoes ( P < .05). Consequently, the higher the total ultrasonic scores, the increased possibility there was of malignant lesions. The sensitivity and specificity to distinguish breast malignant lesions from benign ones were 84.9% and 88.9%, respectively, and the area (Az) under the receiver operating characteristic curve of diagnosis was 0.915 if the cutoff value of the total ultrasonic scores was 13.5. This promising performance of ultrasonic scores in analyzing the sonographic features for differentiation between benign and malignant lesions semi-quantitatively can increase the diagnostic accuracy of breast solid lesions.
Induction of heme oxygenase-1 in factor VIII–deficient mice reduces the immune response to therapeutic factor VIII
Authors: Dimitrov Jordan D. , Dasgupta Suryasarathi , Navarrete Ana-Maria , Delignat Sandrine , Repesse Yohann , Meslier Yann , Planchais Cyril , Teyssandier Maud , Motterlini Roberto , Bayry Jagadeesh , Kaveri Srinivas V. , Lacroix-Desmazes Sébastien
Published: November 2009

Replacement therapy with exogenous factor VIII (FVIII) to treat hemorrhages induces anti-FVIII inhibitory immunoglobulin G in up to 30% of patients with hemophilia A. Chronic inflammation associated with recurrent bleedings is a proposed risk factor for FVIII inhibitor development. Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is a stress-inducible enzyme with potent anti-inflammatory activity. Here, we demonstrate that induction of HO-1 before FVIII administration drastically reduces the onset of the anti-FVIII humoral immune response. The protective effect was specific for HO-1 because it was reproduced on administration of the end products of HO-1 activity, carbon monoxide, and bilirubin, and prevented by the pharmacologic inhibition of HO-1 using tin mesoporphyrin IX. HO-1 induction was associated with decreased major histocompatibility complex class II expression by splenic antigen-presenting cells and reduced T-cell proliferation. Triggering the endogenous anti-inflammatory machinery before FVIII administration may represent a novel therapeutic option for preventing the development of FVIII inhibitors in hemophilia A patients.
The normal IGHV1-69–derived B-cell repertoire contains stereotypic patterns characteristic of unmutated CLL
Authors: Forconi Francesco , Potter Kathleen N. , Wheatley Isla , Darzentas Nikos , Sozzi Elisa , Stamatopoulos Kostas , Mockridge C. Ian , Packham Graham , Stevenson Freda K.
Published: November 2009

The cell of origin of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has long been sought, and immunoglobulin gene analysis provides new clues. In the unmutated subset (U-CLL), there is increased usage of the 51p1-related alleles of the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable 1-69 gene, often combined with selected genes and with immunoglobulin heavy chain diversity IGHJ6. Stereotypic characteristics of the HCDR3 result and suggest antigen selection of the leukemic clones. We have now analyzed 51p1/IGHJ6 combinations in normal blood B cells from 3 healthy persons for parallel sequence patterns. A high proportion (33.3% of sequences) revealed stereotypic patterns, with several (15.0%) being similar to those described in U-CLL. Previously unreported CLL-associated stereotypes were detected in 4.8%. Stereotypes (13.6%) not detected in CLL also were found. The HCDR2-IGHJ6 sequences were essentially unmutated. Junctional amino acids in normal B cells were heterogeneous, as in cases of stereotyped CLL. Phenotypically, normal B cells expressing 51p1-derived immunoglobulin M were naive. This snapshot of the naive B-cell repertoire reveals subsets of B cells closely related to those characteristic of CLL. Conserved patterns in the 51p1-encoded immunoglobulin M of normal B cells suggest a restricted sequence repertoire shaped by evolution to recognize common pathogens. Proliferative pressure on these cells is the likely route to U-CLL.
Screening of specific diagnostic peptides of swine hepatitis E virus
Authors: Zhao Kai , Liu Qiwen , Yu Ruisong , Li Zhen , Li Jianyue , Zhu Hong , Wu Xiao , Tan Furong , Wang Jinbin , Tang Xueming
Published: November 2009

Background

Swine hepatitis E virus (swHEV) is a zoonotic disease that is considered a major problem in pig production and presents a threat to human health. Elucidation of the major antigenic epitopes of swHEV is essential for the effective control of swHEV epidemics.

Results

By bioinformatic analysis, we identified and then synthesized 12 peptides from open reading frames (ORFs) ORF1, ORF2 and ORF3, including swHEV-1 - swHEV-12. Using the results from ELISA, we selected swHEV-11 as the best candidate antigen and used it as a coating antigen for the development of peptide-based swine anti-HEV ELISA kits. The coefficient of variation (CV) the coefficient of variation (CV) varied between 4.3-7.2% in the same batch, and between 8.2-17.7% in six different batches. When comparing our swine peptide-based kit with the commercial recombinant-based kit, the humane anti-HEV IgG test had a 73.4% correspondence rate for them.

Conclusion

This is the first systemic study to screen the diagnostic peptides of swHEV and our findings strongly suggest that peptide swHEV-11 is a potent diagnostic reagent of swHEV that could be used in the development of highly efficient diagnostic assays for the specific and highly sensitive detection of anti-HEV activity in swine serum samples.