bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of thermal acclimation on transcriptional responses to acute heat stress in the eurythermal fish Gillichthys mirabilis (Cooper)
Authors: Logan Cheryl A. , Somero George N.
Published: March 2011

The capacities of eurythermal ectotherms to withstand wide ranges of temperature are based, in part, on abilities to modulate gene expression as body temperature changes, notably genes encoding proteins of the cellular stress response. Here, using a complementary DNA microarray, we investigated the sequence in which cellular stress response-linked genes are expressed during acute heat stress, to elucidate how severity of stress affects the categories of genes changing expression. We also studied how prior acclimation history affected gene expression in response to acute heat stress. Eurythermal goby fish ( Gillichthys mirabilis ) were acclimated to 9 ± 0.5, 19 ± 0.5, and 28 ± 0.5°C for 1 mo. Then fish were given an acute heat ramp (4°C/h), and gill tissues were sampled every +4°C to monitor gene expression. The average onset temperature for a significant change in expression during acute stress increased by ∼2°C for each ∼10°C increase in acclimation temperature. For some genes, warm acclimation appeared to obviate the need for expression change until the most extreme temperatures were reached. Sequential expression of different categories of genes reflected severity of stress. Regardless of acclimation temperature, the gene encoding heat shock protein 70 ( HSP70) was upregulated strongly during mild stress; the gene encoding the proteolytic protein ubiquitin ( UBIQ) was upregulated at slightly higher temperatures; and a gene encoding a protein involved in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B ( CDKN1B), was upregulated only under extreme stress. The tiered, stress level-related expression patterns and the effects of acclimation on induction temperature yield new insights into the fundamental mechanisms of eurythermy.
Biphasic modulation by galanin of excitatory synaptic transmission in substantia gelatinosa neurons of adult rat spinal cord slices
Authors: Yue Hai-Yuan , Fujita Tsugumi , Kumamoto Eiichi
Published: March 2011

Although intrathecally administrated galanin modulates nociceptive transmission in a biphasic manner, this has not been fully examined previously. In the present study, the action of galanin on synaptic transmission in the substantia gelatinosa (SG) neurons of adult rat spinal cord slices was examined, using the whole cell patch-clamp technique. Galanin concentration-dependently increased the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC; EC50 = 2.0 nM) without changing the amplitude, indicating a presynaptic effect. This effect was reduced in a Ca2+-free, or voltage-gated Ca2+ channel blocker La3+-containing Krebs solution and was produced by a galanin type-2/3 receptor (GalR2/R3) agonist, galanin 2–11, but not by a galanin type-1 receptor (GalR1) agonist, M617. Galanin also concentration-dependently produced an outward current at −70 mV (EC50 = 44 nM), although this appeared to be contaminated by a small inward current. This outward current was mimicked by M617, but not by galanin 2–11. Moreover, galanin reduced monosynaptic Aδ-fiber- and C-fiber-evoked EPSC amplitude; the former reduction was larger than the latter. A similar action was produced by galanin 2–11, but not by M617. Spontaneous and focally evoked inhibitory (GABAergic and glycinergic) transmission was unaffected by galanin. These findings indicate that galanin at lower concentrations enhances the spontaneous release of l-glutamate from nerve terminals by Ca2+ entry from the external solution following GalR2/R3 activation, whereas galanin at higher concentrations also produces a membrane hyperpolarization by activating GalR1. Moreover, galanin reduces l-glutamate release onto SG neurons from primary afferent fibers by activating GalR2/R3. These effects could partially contribute to the behavioral effect of galanin.
Complete Convergence for Weighted Sums of Sequences of Negatively Dependent Random Variables
Authors: Wu Qunying
Published: March 2011

Applying to the moment inequality of negatively dependent random variables the
complete convergence for weighted sums of sequences of negatively dependent random variables
is discussed. As a result, complete convergence theorems for negatively dependent
sequences of random variables are extended.
Occupational Asthma in Antibiotic Manufacturing Workers: Case Reports and Systematic Review
Authors: Díaz Angulo Sara , Szram Joanna , Welch Jenny , Cannon Julie , Cullinan Paul
Published: March 2011

Background. The risks of occupational asthma (OA) from antibiotics are uncertain. We report 4 new cases and a systematic review of the literature. Methods. Cases were identified through a specialist clinic, each underwent specific provocation testing (SPT). We subsequently reviewed the published literature. Results. The patients were employed in the manufacture of antibiotics; penicillins were implicated in three cases, in the fourth erythromycin, not previously reported to cause OA. In two, there was evidence of specific IgE sensitisation. At SPT each developed a late asthmatic reaction and increased bronchial hyperresponsiveness. 36 case reports have been previously published, 26 (citing penicillins or cephalosporins). Seven cross-sectional workplace-based surveys found prevalences of 5–8%. Conclusions. OA in antibiotic manufacturers may be more common than is generally recognised. Its pathogenesis remains unclear; immunological tests are of uncertain value and potential cases require confirmation with SPT. Further study of its frequency, mechanisms, and diagnosis is required.
Oscillation Criteria for Second‐Order Superlinear Neutral Differential Equations
Authors: Li Tongxing , Han Zhenlai , Zhang Chenghui , Li Hua
Published: March 2011

Some oscillation criteria are established for the second‐order superlinear neutral differential equations (r(t) | z′(t)|α−1z′(t))′ + f(t, x(σ(t))) = 0, t ≥ t0, where z(t) = x(t) + p(t)x(τ(t)), τ(t) ≥ t, σ(t) ≥ t, p ∈ C([t0, ∞), [0, p0]), and α ≥ 1. Our results are based on the cases or . Two examples are also provided to illustrate these results.
CONTANGO: Integrated Optimization of SoC Clock Networks
Authors: Lee Dong-Jin , Markov Igor L.
Published: March 2011

On-chip clock networks are remarkable in their
impact on the performance and power of synchronous circuits, in
their susceptibility to adverse effects of semiconductor technology
scaling, as well as in their strong potential for improvement
through better CAD algorithms and tools. Existing literature
is rich in ideas and techniques but performs large-scale optimization
using analytical models that lost accuracy at recent
technology nodes and have rarely been validated by realistic
SPICE simulations on large industry designs.
Our work offers a methodology for SPICE-accurate optimization
of clock networks, coordinated to satisfy slew constraints
and achieve best tradeoffs between skew, insertion delay, power,
as well as tolerance to variations. Our implementation, called
Contango, is evaluated on 45 nm benchmarks from IBM Research
and Texas Instruments with up to 50 K sinks. It outperforms all
published results in terms of skew and shows superior scalability.
Stability of Stochastic Reaction‐Diffusion Recurrent Neural Networks with Unbounded Distributed Delays
Authors: Huang Chuangxia , Yang Xinsong , He Yigang , Huang Lehua
Published: March 2011

Stability of reaction‐diffusion recurrent neural networks (RNNs) with continuously distributed delays and stochastic influence are considered. Some new sufficient conditions to guarantee the almost sure exponential stability and mean square exponential stability of an equilibrium solution are obtained, respectively. Lyapunov′s functional method, M‐matrix properties, some inequality technique, and nonnegative semimartingale convergence theorem are used in our approach. The obtained conclusions improve some published results.
Human Chondrosarcoma Cells Acquire an Epithelial-Like Gene Expression Pattern via an Epigenetic Switch: Evidence for Mesenchymal-Epithelial Transition during Sarcomagenesis
Authors: Fitzgerald Matthew P. , Gourronc Francoise , Teoh Melissa L. T. , Provenzano Matthew J. , Case Adam J. , Martin James A. , Domann Frederick E.
Published: March 2011

Chondrocytes are mesenchymally derived cells that reportedly acquire some epithelial characteristics; however, whether this is a progression through a mesenchymal to epithelial transition (MET) during chondrosarcoma development is still a matter of investigation. We observed that chondrosarcoma cells acquired the expression of four epithelial markers,E-cadherin,desmocollin 3, maspin, and14-3-3σ, all of which are governed epigenetically through cytosine methylation. Indeed, loss of cytosine methylation was tightly associated with acquired expression of bothmaspinand14-3-3σin chondrosarcomas. In contrast, chondrocyte cells were negative formaspinand14-3-3σand displayed nearly complete DNA methylation. Robust activation of these genes was also observed in chondrocyte cells following 5-aza-dC treatment. We also examined the transcription factorsnailwhich has been reported to be an important mediator of epithelial to mesenchymal transitions (EMTs). In chondrosarcoma cellssnailis downregulated suggesting a role for loss ofsnailexpression in lineage maintenance. Taken together, these results document an epigenetic switch associated with an MET-like phenomenon that accompanies chondrosarcoma progression.
Traditional Chinese Medicines in Treatment of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Xie Weidong , Zhao Yunan , Zhang Yaou
Published: March 2011

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) occurs in 95% of the diabetic populations. Management of T2DM is a challenge. Traditional Chinese medicines (TCM) are usually served as adjuvants used to improve diabetic syndromes in combination of routine antidiabetic drugs. For single‐herb prescriptions, Ginseng, Bitter melon, Golden Thread, Fenugreek, Garlic, and Cinnamon might have antidiabetic effects in T2DM patients. Among 30 antidiabetic formulas approved by the State Food and Drugs Administrator of China, top 10 of the most frequently prescribed herbs are Membranous Milkvetch Root, Rehmannia Root, Mongolian Snakegourd Root, Ginseng, Chinese Magnoliavine Fruit, Kudzuvine Root, Dwarf Lilyturf Tuber, Common Anemarrhena Rhizome, Barbary Wolfberry Fruit, and India Bread, which mainly guided by the theory of TCM. Their action mechanisms are related to improve insulin sensitivity, stimulate insulin secretion, protect pancreatic islets, and even inhibit intake of intestinal carbohydrates. However, it is very difficult to determine antihyperglycemic components of TCM. Nevertheless, TCM are becoming popular complementary and alternative medicine in treatment of syndromes of T2DM. In the future, it requires further validation of phytochemical, pharmacological, and clinical natures of TCM in T2DM in the future studies, especially for those herbs with a high prescription frequency.
Formulated Beta-Cyfluthrin Shows Wide Divergence in Toxicity among Bird Species
Authors: Addy-Orduna Laura M. , Zaccagnini María-Elena , Canavelli Sonia B. , Mineau Pierre
Published: March 2011

It is generally assumed that the toxicity of pyrethroid insecticides to birds is negligible, though few species have been tested. The oral acute toxicity of formulated beta-cyfluthrin was determined for canaries (Serinus sp.), shiny cowbirds (Molothrus bonariensis), and eared doves (Zenaida auriculata). Single doses were administered to adults by gavage. Approximate lethal doses 50 (LD50) and their confidence intervals were determined by approximate D-optimal design. Canaries were found to be substantially more sensitive to formulated beta-cyfluthrin (LD50=(170±41) mg/kg) than the other two species tested (LD50=(2234±544) mg/kg andLD50=(2271±433) mg/kg, resp.). TheLD50obtained for canaries was also considerably lower than typical toxicity values available in the literature for pyrethroids. This study emphasizes the need for testing a broader range of species with potentially toxic insecticides, using modern up and down test designs with minimal numbers of birds.
A Direct Method for the Analyticity of the Pressure for Certain Classical Unbounded Models
Authors: Lo Assane
Published: March 2011

The goal of this paper is to provide estimates leading to a direct proof
of the analyticity of the pressure for certain classical unbounded models. We use our new formula (Lo, 2007) to establish the analyticity of the pressure in the thermodynamic limit for a wide class of classical unbounded models
in statistical mechanics.
Enhanced Chemotherapy of Cancer Using pH-Sensitive Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles to Antagonize P-Glycoprotein–Mediated Drug Resistance
Authors: Huang I-Ping , Sun Shu-Pin , Cheng Shih-Hsun , Lee Chia-Hung , Wu Chia-Yan , Yang Chung-Shi , Lo Leu-Wei , Lai Yiu-Kay
Published: March 2011

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the major clinical obstacle in the management of cancer by chemotherapy. Overexpression of ATP-dependent efflux transporter P-glycoprotein (PGP) is a key factor contributing to multidrug resistance of cancer cells. The purpose of the present study was to use the endosomal pH-sensitive MSN (mesoporous silica nanoparticles; MSN-Hydrazone-Dox) for controlled release of doxorubicin (Dox) in an attempt to overcome the PGP-mediated MDR. In vitro cell culture studies indicate that uptake of MSN-Hydrazone-Dox by the human uterine sarcoma MES-SA/Dox-resistant tumor (MES-SA/Dx-5) cell occurs through endocytosis, thus bypassing the efflux pump resistance. This improves the efficacy of the drug and leads to significant cytotoxicity and DNA fragmentation evidenced by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated dUTP nick end labeling and DNA laddering assays. In vivo studies show that the intratumor injection of MSN-Hydrazone-Dox induces significant apoptosis of MES-SA/Dox-resistant cancer cells. This is validated by active caspase-3 immunohistochemical analysis. However, MSN-Hydrazone, without doxorubicin conjugation, cannot induce apoptosis in vitro and in vivo. In conclusion, both in vitro and in vivo studies show that MSN could serve as an efficient nanocarrier entering cell avidly via endocytosis, thus bypassing the PGP efflux pump to compromise the PGP-mediated MDR. MSN-Hydrazone-Dox could further respond to endosomal acidic pH to release doxorubicin in a sustained manner. Besides the cell study, this is the first report that successfully shows the therapeutic efficacy of using MSN against MDR cancer in vivo. Mol Cancer Ther; 10(5); 761–9. ©2011 AACR.
Incremental Value of Pulmonary Function and Sputum DNA Image Cytometry in Lung Cancer Risk Prediction
Authors: Tammemagi Martin C. , Lam Stephen C. , McWilliams Annette M. , Sin Don D.
Published: March 2011

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Accurate prediction of lung cancer risk is of value for individuals, clinicians, and researchers. The aims of this study were to characterize the associations between pulmonary function and sputum DNA image cytometry (SDIC) and lung cancer, and their contributions to risk prediction. During 1990 to 2007, 2,596 high-risk individuals were enrolled and followed prospectively for development of lung cancer (n = 139; median follow-up 7.7 years) in trials at the British Columbia Cancer Agency. At baseline, an epidemiologic questionnaire was administered, sputum was collected for aneuploidy measurement and spirometry was obtained. Multivariable logistic models were prepared including known lung cancer predictors (model 1), that additionally included percent-expected-forced expiratory volume in 1 second [forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1%), model 2], and that additionally included SDIC (model 3). Prediction was assessed by evaluating discrimination (receiver operator characteristic area under the curve (ROC AUC)) and calibration. Net reclassification indices (NRI) were calculated with cutoff points for 8-year risks identifying low, intermediate, and high risk at 1.5% and 3%. Lung cancer risk increased with decline in FEV1%, but did so more for men than for women (interaction P < 0.001). SDIC demonstrated a dose–response with lung cancer (P = 0.022). The ROC AUCs for models 1, 2, and 3 were 0.718 (95% CI: 0.671–0.765), 0.767 (95% CI: 0.725–0.809), and 0.773 (95% CI: 0.732–0.815), respectively. Model 2 versus 1 had a NRI of 12.6% (P < 0.0001) and model 3 versus 2 had a NRI of 3.1% (P = 0.059). Spirometry and SDIC data substantially and minimally improved lung cancer prediction, respectively. Cancer Prev Res; 4(4); 552–61. ©2011 AACR.
Attentional Bias in Depressive Patients and the Moderating Effect of Concurrent Anxiety
Authors: Markela-Lerenc Jaana , Kaiser Stefan , Gölz Tanja , Fiedler Peter , Mundt Christoph , Weisbrod Matthias
Published: March 2011

Background: Most previous studies finding positive results in the emotional Stroop test did not control for concurrent anxiety symptoms. This study investigated depressive patients without comorbid anxiety disorders in order to clarify existing inconsistent findings. Furthermore, we examined the relationship between anxiety level and the emotional Stroop effect in patients and healthy subjects. Subjects and Methods: Twenty-three depressive patients without comorbid anxiety disorder and 27 healthy subjects performed a mixed computerized version of the emotional Stroop test (attentional bias test). We assessed the state and trait anxiety and examined its correlation with the emotional Stroop effect. Results: We failed to find evidence for attentional bias in the patients as measured by longer reaction times to the emotional stimuli. However, there was a positive correlation between state anxiety and attentional bias in depressed patients. On the other hand, in healthy subjects the trait anxiety correlated negatively with attentional bias. Conclusions: Attentional bias is not found in depressed patients if only patients without comorbid anxiety disorders are included. Furthermore, healthy subjects with high trait anxiety levels may be vulnerable to affective disorders because they use avoidance strategies when encountering negative information.
What Is It like to Be a Person with Schizophrenia in the Social World? A First-Person Perspective Study on Schizophrenic Dissociality – Part 2: Methodological Issues and Empirical Findings
Authors: Stanghellini Giovanni , Ballerini Massimo
Published: March 2011

Objective: This is an empirical study exploring the personal level of experience of social dysfunction in persons with schizophrenia. Method: We adopted a qualitative method of inquiry based on a review of transcripts of individual therapy sessions conducted for 52 persons with chart diagnoses of schizophrenia or schizotypal disorder. Results: In our interviews, the experience of the social world in persons with schizophrenia emerged as an overall crisis of immediate, prepredicative, prereflexive attunement, typically accompanied by feelings of invasiveness and abnormalities in bodily and emotional sensations; a hyperreflexive mode for understanding the intentions of other persons, and a sceptical, aversive and sometimes utopian attitude towards sociality. Conclusion: Social dysfunction in persons with schizophrenia may reflect a disorder of the process of corporeal identification/differentiation that allows both for the intersubjective understanding through body-to-body attunement and for the demarcation between self and other.
Clinicopathological and Prognostic Value of MicroRNA-21 and MicroRNA-155 in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Shibuya Hajime , Iinuma Hisae , Shimada Ryu , Horiuchi Atsushi , Watanabe Toshiaki
Published: March 2011

Objective: The clinical significance of microRNA-21 (miR-21) and miR-155 in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients remains elusive. In this study, we established the prognostic value of miR-21 and miR-155 using clinical samples from CRC patients. Furthermore, relationships between these microRNAs and target genes (PDCD4 and TP53INP1 mRNAs) were examined. Methods: miR-21 and miR-155 expression was assessed in tumor tissue and in adjacent normal tissue of 156 CRC patients by TaqMan MicroRNA assays, and PDCD4 and TP53INP1 mRNA levels were measured by quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). Results: High miR-21 expression was significantly associated with venous invasion, liver metastasis and tumor stage, and high miR-155 expression was significantly correlated with lymph node metastases. The overall (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) rates of patients with high miR-21 expression were significantly worse than those of patients with low miR-21 expression. The OS and DFS of patients with high miR-155 expression were also significantly worse than those in patients with low miR-155 expression. miR-21 and miR-155 expression levels in CRC tissue were independent prognostic factors for OS and DFS. Significant inverse correlations were demonstrated between miR-21 and PDCD4 mRNA, and miR-155 and TP53INP1 mRNA. Conclusion: Increases in miR-21 and miR-155 expression may represent effective biomarkers for the prediction of a poor prognosis.
Effect of Axon Misdirection on Recovery of Electromyographic Activity and Kinematics after Peripheral Nerve Injury
Authors: Sabatier Manning J. , To Bao Ngoc , Nicolini Jennifer , English Arthur W.
Published: March 2011

In this study, patterns of activity in the soleus (Sol) and tibialis anterior (TA) muscles and hindlimb kinematics were evaluated during slope walking in rats after transection and surgical repair either of the entire sciatic nerve (Sci group) or of its two branches separately, the tibial and common fibular nerves (T/CF group). With the latter method, axons from the tibial and common fibular nerves could not reinnervate targets of the other nerve branch after injury, reducing the opportunity for misdirection. Activity in the TA shifted from the swing phase in intact rats to nearly the entire step cycle in both injured groups. Since these changes occur without misdirection of regenerating axons, they are interpreted as centrally generated. Sol activity was changed from reciprocal to that of TA in intact rats to coactivate with TA, but only in the Sci group rats. In the T/CF group rats, Sol activity was not altered from that observed in intact rats. Despite effects of injury that limited foot movements, hindlimb kinematics were conserved during downslope walking in both injury groups and during level walking in the T/CF group. During level walking in the Sci group and during upslope walking in both groups of injured rats, the ability to compensate for the effects of the nerve injury was less effective and resulted in longer limb lengths held at more acute angles throughout the step cycle. Changes in limb movements occur irrespective of axon misdirection and reflect compensatory changes in the outputs of the neural circuits that drive locomotion.
New Challenges in Medical Thoracoscopy
Authors: Froudarakis Marios E.
Published: March 2011

Thoracoscopy is currently the gold standard for the diagnosis and treatment of pleural diseases. Its diagnostic yield is 95% in patients with malignant pleural disease, with approximately 90% successful pleurodesis for malignant pleural effusion and 95% for pneumothorax. At the same time, thoracoscopy constitutes an important tool in the research of pleural pathophysiology and molecular biology. The improvement of technology has provided important tools to thoracoscopy, such as autofluorescence, narrow band imaging, and infrared light, used in clinical and basic research in many disorders involving the pleura. For these reasons, training in thoracoscopy should be considered equally important as training in bronchoscopy for residents in respiratory medicine.
Pedestrian-Friendly Environments and Active Travel for Residents of Multifamily Housing
Authors: Larco Nico , Steiner Bethany , Stockard Jean , West Amanda
Published: March 2011

This article examines the relationship of the built environment to physical activity in suburban multifamily housing developments in a medium-sized city, testing Alfonzo’s (2005) model of decisions regarding active travel. All complexes were within one-quarter mile of a shopping area with a major grocery store, but varied in pedestrian friendliness. Survey data were gathered on travel behavior to the stores, sociodemographic characteristics, preferences for an “active” environment, and perceptions of the extent to which their environment promoted activity. Multilevel analyses showed that residents in more pedestrian-friendly areas had significantly more active travel and less driving travel, indicating a substitution, rather than a supplementation, effect. Results remained when preferences for an “active” environment were controlled and, in most cases, when perceptions of the environment were controlled. It is suggested that Alfonzo’s model of decisions regarding walking behavior be amended to include direct influences of urban form on travel behavior.
A Losing Battle
Authors: Knobloch-Westerwick Silvia , Crane Josselyn
Published: March 2011

The present study examined prolonged exposure effects of thin-ideal media messages. College-aged females participated in seven online sessions over 10 days including a baseline measures session, five daily measures, and a posttest. Two experimental groups viewed magazine pages with thin-ideal imagery. One of those groups was induced to engage in social comparisons with the thin-ideal models. The control group viewed messages with body-neutral images of women. Prolonged exposure to thin-ideal messages led to greater body satisfaction. This finding was attributed to the fact that the experimental groups reported more dieting behaviors. A mediation analysis showed that the impact of thin-ideal message exposure on body satisfaction was mediated by dieting.
Preelection Selective Exposure
Authors: Knobloch-Westerwick Silvia , Kleinman Steven B.
Published: March 2011

The glut of media coverage prior to a presidential election requires individuals to selectively expose themselves to some messages and not others. The study involves a two-session online quasi-experiment with 205 participants that was conducted before the 2008 presidential election. Hypotheses on confirmation bias and information utility driving selective exposure prior to an election are tested. Results confirm that information utility can override a confirmation bias and motivate exposure if a government change is likely and the favored party is likely to lose the election. Moreover, participants with frequent habitual online news use do not exhibit a confirmation bias. However, participants whose favored party was likely to win the election and participants with infrequent online news consumption show a significant confirmation bias.
Racial and Gender Differences in the Relationship Between Children’s Television Use and Self-Esteem
Authors: Martins Nicole , Harrison Kristen
Published: March 2011

A longitudinal panel survey of 396 White and Black preadolescent boys and girls was conducted to assess the long-term effects of television consumption on global self-esteem. The results revealed television exposure, after controlling for age, body satisfaction, and baseline self-esteem, was significantly related to children’s self-esteem. Specifically, television exposure predicted a decrease in self-esteem for White and Black girls and Black boys, and an increase in self-esteem among White boys. The findings are discussed in terms of cultivation theory and social identity theory.
A Randomized Trial of the Impact of Survey Design Characteristics on Response Rates Among Nursing Home Providers
Authors: Clark Melissa , Rogers Michelle , Foster Andrew , Dvorchak Faye , Saadeh Frances , Weaver Jessica , Mor Vincent
Published: March 2011

An experiment was conducted to maximize participation of both the Director of Nursing (DoN) and the Administrator (ADMIN) in long-term care facilities. Providers in each of the 224 randomly selected facilities were randomly assigned to 1 of 16 conditions based on the combination of data collection mode (web vs. mail), questionnaire length (short vs. long), and incentive structure. Incentive structures were determined by amount compensated if the individual completed and an additional amount per individual if the pair completed (a) $30 individual/$5 pair/$35 total; (b) $10 individual/$25 pair/$35 total; (c) $30 individual/$20 pair/$50 total; and (d) $10 individual/$40 pair/$50 total. Overall, 47.4% of eligible respondents participated; both respondents participated in 29.3% of facilities. In multivariable analyses, there were no differences in the likelihood of both respondents participating by mode, questionnaire length, or incentive structure. Providing incentives contingent on participation by both providers of a facility was an ineffective strategy for significantly increasing response rates.
Upregulation of the Insulin Receptor and Type I Insulin-Like Growth Factor Receptor Are Early Events in Hepatocarcinogenesis
Authors: Aleem Eiman , Nehrbass Dirk , Klimek Fritz , Mayer Doris , Bannasch Peter
Published: March 2011

The molecular mechanisms underlying the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are not yet fully understood. Preneoplastic foci of altered hepatocytes regularly precede HCC in various species. The predominant earliest type of foci of altered hepatocytes, the glycogen storage focus (GSF), shows an excess of glycogen (glycogenosis) in the cytoplasm. During progression from GSF to HCC, the stored glycogen is gradually reduced, resulting in complete loss in basophilic HCC. We have previously shown that in N-nitrosomorpholine–induced hepatocarcinogenesis, insulin receptor substrate (IRS-1) is strongly expressed in GSF and reduced during progression to HCC, thus correlating with the glycogen content. In the present study, we observed increased levels of insulin receptor, IGF-I receptor (IGF-IR), IRS-2, and mitogen-activated kinase/extracellular regulated kinase-1 in GSF, following the same pattern of expression as IRS-1. We conclude that the abundance of IRS-1, IRS-2, and mitogen-activated kinase/extracellular regulated kinase-1 coincides with a concerted upregulation of both IR and IGF-IR induced by the hepatocarcinogen. Our data suggest that in early hepatocellular preneoplasia, the upregulation of IR elicits glycogenosis through IRS-1 and/or IRS-2, whereas the increased level of the IGF-IR may lead to the increased cell proliferation previously reported in GSF. Therefore, the concerted upregulation of both IR and IGF-IR may represent initial events in hepatocarcinogenesis.
Evaluation of the Toxicity of Eugenol at Anesthetic Doses in African Clawed Frogs (Xenopus laevis)
Authors: Goulet F. , Vachon P. , Hélie P.
Published: March 2011

Eugenol has been shown to induce anesthesia in African clawed frogs ( Xenopus laevis). The toxicity of eugenol, administered at anesthetic doses, was evaluated in Xenopus frogs with an average body weight of 28.2 ± 13.7 g. Frogs were immersed in 250 mL of an aqueous solution containing 350 µl/L of eugenol for ten minutes and received a single administration (group 1, twelve animals) or three consecutive daily administrations (group 2, twelve animals). In each group, six frogs were scheduled to be euthanized the following day (subgroup A) and the other six were scheduled to be euthanized after a one-week recovery period (subgroup B). Morphologic changes consistent with renal tubular apoptosis affecting distal tubules in the medulla were observed in all subgroup A animals, ranging from mild to moderate in group 1, and from mild to severe in group 2. In subgroup B, renal tubular regeneration was present in all but one animal examined. These findings suggest that eugenol toxicity in amphibians is first manifested by renal tubular apoptosis. Other eugenol-related lesions were massive hepatic necrosis in group 2 ( n = 6), hyaline membranes in the lung ( n = 5), and adipose tissue hemorrhages in group/subgroup 2B ( n = 4).
PTHrP Treatment Fails to Rescue Bone Defects Caused by Hedgehog Pathway Inhibition in Young Mice
Authors: Brechbiel Jillian L. , Ng Jessica M. Y. , Curran Tom
Published: March 2011

The advent of molecular targeted therapies offers the hope of therapeutic advance in the fight against cancer. However, this hope is tempered by recent findings that certain targeted therapies may have unique side effects. The Hedgehog (HH) pathway is a potential target for treatment of several cancers, including basal cell carcinoma and a subset of medulloblastoma. Recent clinical trials in adults have shown responses to HH pathway inhibition in both basal cell carcinoma and medulloblastoma. However, concerns have been raised about the use of HH pathway inhibitors in children because of the role the HH pathway plays in development. Indeed, young mice treated with the HH pathway inhibitor HhAntag developed severe bone defects, including premature differentiation of chondrocytes, thinning of cortical bone, and fusion of the growth plate. In an effort to lessen the severity of bone defects caused by HhAntag, we treated young mice simultaneously with HhAntag and parathyroid hormone–related protein (PTHrP), which functions downstream of Indian Hedgehog to maintain chondrocytes in a proliferative state. The results show that whereas treatment with PTHrP causes a significant increase in trabecular bone, it does not prevent fusion of the growth plate induced by HhAntag.
Treponema Infection Associated With Genital Ulceration in Wild Baboons
Authors: Knauf S. , Batamuzi E. K. , Mlengeya T. , Kilewo M. , Lejora I. A. V. , Nordhoff M. , Ehlers B. , Harper K. N. , Fyumagwa R. , Hoare R. , Failing K. , Wehrend A. , Kaup F. J. , Leendertz F. H. , Mätz-Rensing K.
Published: March 2011

The authors describe genital alterations and detailed histologic findings in baboons naturally infected with Treponema pallidum. The disease causes moderate to severe genital ulcerations in a population of olive baboons ( Papio hamadryas anubis) at Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania. In a field survey in 2007, 63 individuals of all age classes, both sexes, and different grades of infection were chemically immobilized and sampled. Histology and molecular biological tests were used to detect and identify the organism responsible: a strain similar to T pallidum ssp pertenue, the cause of yaws in humans. Although treponemal infections are not a new phenomenon in nonhuman primates, the infection described here appears to be strictly associated with the anogenital region and results in tissue alterations matching those found in human syphilis infections (caused by T pallidum ssp pallidum), despite the causative pathogen’s greater genetic similarity to human yaws-causing strains.
Epistemic beliefs and self-regulated learning in music students
Authors: Nielsen Siw Graabræk
Published: March 2011

In the context of advanced instrumental learning, this study had two purposes: to investigate the relationships of epistemic beliefs to first-year music students’ self-reported learning strategies in practising a musical instrument, and to examine the adaption of a measure of academic personal epistemology to the musical domain. One hundred and thirty music students (71 women and 59 men) from six music academies/conservatoires filled out questionnaires detailing their epistemic beliefs and strategy use. To some degree, the factor analysis showed cross-subject generalizability in the dimensions of epistemic beliefs in the music version of the original measure. The four dimensions found were: certainty of knowledge (α = .64); control of knowledge acquisition (α = .66); ambiguity of knowledge (α = .56); and simplicity of knowledge (α = .50). Beliefs about the control of knowledge acquisition and the simplicity of knowledge were significantly related to strategies, but the correlations were low. Gender and degree programme were also significantly related to epistemic beliefs.
Sensation-seeking, performance genres and substance use among musicians
Authors: Miller Kathleen E. , Quigley Brian M.
Published: March 2011

Popular cultural imagery has long assumed that musicians routinely use both licit and illicit substances for recreational purposes, to enhance creativity or to cope with the vicissitudes of an artistic lifestyle. To date, however, there has been little empirical examination of the presumed links between drugs and musical performance. In this analysis, we examined relationships among personality, musical performance genres, and the use of substances both licit (tobacco and alcohol) and illicit (marijuana and other drugs). Drawing on self-report survey data from a sample of 226 Western New York professional and amateur musicians, we used hierarchical regression analyses to test the simultaneous effects of sensation-seeking and performance genres on eight substance use outcomes, controlling for gender, age, race, and ethnicity. All forms of substance use were positively associated with sensation-seeking. Substance use outcomes were positively associated with Intense/Rebellious genres (e.g., rock) and to a lesser extent with Energetic/Rhythmic genres (e.g., rap/hip-hop), but negatively associated with Upbeat/Conventional genres (e.g., pop) and Reflective/Complex genres (e.g., jazz). The relationships between performance genres and both smoking and alcohol use were gender-specific.
Toward a better understanding of the relation between music preference, listening behavior, and personality
Authors: Dunn Peter Gregory , de Ruyter Boris , Bouwhuis Don G.
Published: March 2011

Previous research relating personality and music preferences has often measured such reported preferences according to genre labels. To support previous research, the current paper has expanded investigation of the relation between personality and music preferences to include direct measurement of music listening behavior. A study ( N = 395) measured participants’ personality, reported music preferences, and their listening behavior, which was tracked while using a music database for a minimum period of three months. Results indicated that reported music preferences were correlated to listening behavior, and indicated robust positive relations between Neuroticism and Classical music preference, and between Openness to Experience and Jazz music preference. Results also indicated issues when using genre labels to measure music preferences, which are discussed.
A Conversation with Malcolm Pines
Authors: Tubert-Oklander Juan , Hernández-Tubert Reyna
Published: March 2011

Part II: Group Analysis, Psycho-Analysis and Politics

This second part of the conversation between the authors, Malcolm Pines and his wife, Iris, is much more variegated than the first. We move easily through several themes: the differences between group analysis in Britain and in the USA, the distinctive traits of group analysis, Malcolm’s contribution to its development, the contrast with psychoanalysis, politics, ethnology, Marxism, power, values, the Weltanschauung, terrorism, religion, the relationship between Malcolm and Iris, and a comparison of our respective points of view. The common thread that joins all these apparently disparate ideas is the flow of conversation, as in group analysis. The result is most valuable and fascinating, and worth preserving and sharing.
Psychotherapy Groups for Traumatized Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Authors: Tucker Sarah
Published: March 2011

Two ways in which the concrete intrudes into the therapeutic space of psychotherapy groups for traumatized refugees and asylum seekers are explored. Concrete intrusions, which are the result of historical traumatic events, are distinguished from those which are the result of the contemporary socio-political context. Groups can help work through the former as an essential part of the therapy and need to find ways of working with the latter. The historical intrusions are aligned to the loss of the ability to symbolize. Connections between the (interpersonal) loss of the ability to trust, which characterizes groups for this population, and the (intrapersonal) loss of the ability to symbolize are explored. With the use of clinical illustrations, the article emphasizes the way in which the group therapy setting provides a space in which to rebuild the ability to trust, which is so personally and politically poignant for this client group. Moreover, finding ways of working with contemporary intrusions may benefit trust and the therapeutic alliance.
Imperfection and Disillusionment as Therapeutic Agents
Authors: Sargeant Rhona
Published: March 2011

In the initial phase of group development the conductor strives hard to nurture the new analytic group in order that it survives as a whole through the early anxieties. The group develops a dependence on the group conductor, who tries to offer something close to perfection. However, during the middle phase this nurturing role needs to be reduced to allow the growth and creativity of the group to develop.

In this article the concept of disillusionment or de-adaptation is borrowed from the individual analytic literature. In the middle phase of group development imperfections in the conductor are considered as therapeutic agents, necessary for the group to move to a more mature position where their own creativity can be discovered and the group can become owned by its members. Parallels between the group’s development and a child’s development are drawn.
Diverse Patterns in the Development of Depressive Symptoms Among Emerging Adults
Authors: Frye Alice A. , Liem Joan H.
Published: March 2011

This article examines depressive symptoms over a 4-year period in a racially diverse community sample of 1,143 18- to 22-year-old emerging adults using latent growth and mixture modeling and data collected at three time points. Participants were high school seniors randomly chosen from nine public schools in a metropolitan region in the Northeastern United States. Mixture analyses yielded four distinct groups: one large group with low, stable rates of depression, a smaller group who began with higher levels of depression that then declined steeply, a group who began with moderate levels that steeply increased, and a small group with high stable rates of depressive symptoms. We examined risks for depressive symptoms including poverty status, African American race, Hispanic ethnicity, gender, and trauma history, controlling for socioeconomic status (SES) as represented by maternal education. Some risks predicted membership in more than one symptom group, lending support to the idea that emerging adulthood is a period of diverse outcomes, in which previous circumstances may predict to multiple pathways, and established risk factors do not always lead to poor outcomes.
Procedural Sedation and Analgesia in the Emergency Department
Authors: Baker Stephanie N. , Weant Kyle A.
Published: March 2011

Patients present to the emergency department (ED) for a variety of reasons and some require diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for their conditions. In order for some of these procedures to be carried out successfully, the patient must be at a suppressed level of consciousness in order to tolerate the associated pain and anxiety. Medications administered to achieve these goals include analgesics and sedatives as they decrease the patient’s discomfort and awareness while allowing the patient to maintain their airway. However, medication selection and dosing is critical and should be tailored to each patient and procedure. Pharmacists have an opportunity to reduce medication errors during procedural sedation and analgesia (PSAA) as the majority of medication errors leading to adverse events occur during the ordering and administration steps of the medication use process. Common errors include drug-dosing, potential drug interactions, and administration of the wrong pharmacologic agent. Pharmacists in the ED can provide drug information and assist with drug selection and dosing; medication preparation; and monitoring of the patient and of the time intervals since medication administration relative to the duration of the procedure. Having a pharmacist present provides an extra layer of protection and reduces the likelihood for potential medication errors.
From SSWR to Peer-Reviewed Publication: How Many Live and How Many Die?
Authors: Perron Brian E. , Taylor Harry Owen , Vaughn Michael G. , Grogan-Kaylor Andrew , Ruffolo Mary C. , Spencer Michael
Published: March 2011

The purpose of this study was to estimate how many presentations at the Annual Meeting of the Society for Social Work and Research (SSWR) are subsequently published in peer-reviewed journals. A 30% random sample of abstracts presented at the 2006 Annual Meeting of SSWR was reviewed. To determine publication status of the presentations, the authors conducted searches using Google Scholar, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Social Work Abstracts, in addition to reviewing faculty pages and curriculum vitae (CVs). The authors recorded information about the published articles including the journal title, impact factor, year, and authors. Forty-three percentage (95% CI = [34.5%, 51.9%]) of presentations were published in a peer-reviewed journal. Twenty-eight percentage (95% CI = [20.9%, 36.7%]) of publications were in a journal with an ISI Impact Factor (M = 1.32). The number of presentation authors was not associated with a subsequent publication. No differences were observed by type of presentation.
Psychosocial Factors Influencing Breast Cancer Risk Appraisal Among Older Women
Authors: Wood Robin Y. , Della-Monica Nola R.
Published: March 2011

Although the incidence of breast cancer increases with age, many older women are uninformed about the increased risk and have lower mammography screening rates than younger women. Understanding older women’s perceptions of risk might assist health care providers in offering appropriate resources that result in screening. In this study, we explored psychosocial components influencing older women’s breast cancer risk appraisal. To identify key psychosocial components of breast cancer risk appraisal, we conducted focus group interviews. Data saturation occurred with four groups ( N = 36) of older Black (58%) and White (42%) women with no prior history of breast cancer. On analysis of the data, we found three themes representing psychosocial factors influencing breast cancer risk appraisal with this cohort. Our findings revealed that worry/fear/anxiety, self-regulating empowerment, and realistic optimism were psychosocial mechanisms older Black and White women in this sample used in appraising breast cancer risk.
Heritage Conservation Districts Work
Authors: Shipley Robert , Jonas Kayla , Kovacs Jason F.
Published: March 2011

Regulating change in historic districts to maintain their character is a conservation tool used around the world. In spite of success elsewhere, heritage conservation districts are still resisted by many in North America. To address the concerns of those opposed, the oldest 32 of 93 districts in Ontario were studied. Resident surveys, land-use mapping, townscape evaluation, land value records, municipal documents, and interviews were used. Findings indicate that people who live and own property in districts are satisfied, requests for alterations are approved promptly, districts meet most of their goals, and property values perform better in the marketplace than those in surrounding areas.