bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
E-cadherin gene re-expression in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells by HDAC inhibitors
Authors: Jordaan Gwen , Liao Wei , Sharma Sanjai
Published: February 2013

Background

The tumor suppressor gene E-cadherin gene is frequently silenced in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells and results in wnt-pathway activation. We analyzed the role of histone epigenetic modifications in E-cadherin gene silencing.

Methods

CLL specimens were treated with histone deacetylase inhibitor (HDACi) MS-275 and analyzed for E-cadherin expression with western blot and RT-PCR analysis. The downstream effects of HDACi treated leukemic cells were studied by analyzing the effect on wnt-pathway signaling. HDACi induced alterations in E-cadherin splicing were investigated by transcript specific real time PCR analysis.

Results

Treatment of CLL specimens with histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) treatment resulted in an increase of the E-cadherin RNA transcript (5 to 119 fold increase, n=10) in eight out of ten CLL specimens indicating that this gene is down regulated by histone hypoacetylation in a majority of CLL specimens. The E-cadherin re-expression in CLL specimens was noted by western blot analysis as well. Besides epigenetic silencing another mechanism of E-cadherin inactivation is aberrant exon 11 splicing resulting in an alternatively spliced transcript that lacks exon 11 and is degraded by the non-sense mediated decay (NMD) pathway. Our chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments show that HDACi increased the acetylation of histones H3 and H4 in the E-cadherin promoter region. This also affected the E-cadherin exon 11 splicing pattern as HDACi treated CLL specimens preferentially expressed the correctly spliced transcript and not the exon 11 skipped aberrant transcript. The re-expressed E- cadherin binds to β-catenin with inhibition of the active wnt-beta-catenin pathway in these cells. This resulted in a down regulation of two wnt target genes, LEF and cyclinD1 and the wnt pathway reporter.

Conclusion

The E-cadherin gene is epigenetically modified and hypoacetylated in CLL leukemic cells. Treatment of CLL specimens with HDACi MS-275 activates transcription from this silent gene with expression of more correctly spliced E-cadherin transcripts as compared to the aberrant exon11 skipped transcripts that in turn inhibits the wnt signaling pathway. The data highlights the role of epigenetic modifications in altering gene splicing patterns.
Capsaicin induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in human KB cancer cells
Authors: Lin Chia-Han , Lu Wei-Cheng , Wang Che-Wei , Chan Ya-Chi , Chen Mu-Kuan
Published: February 2013

Background

Capsaicin, a pungent phytochemical in a variety of red peppers of the genus Capsicum, has shown an anti-proliferative effect on various human cancer cell lines. In contrast, capsaicin has also been considered to promote the growth of cancer cells. Thus, the effects of capsaicin on various cell types need to be explored. The anti-proliferative effects of capsaicin on human KB cancer cells are still unknown. Therefore, we examined the viability, cell cycle progression, and factors associated with apoptosis in KB cells treated with capsaicin.

Methods

The cell proliferation/viability and cytotoxicity of KB cells exposed to capsaicin were determined by a sulforhodamine B colorimetric assay and trypan blue exclusion. Apoptosis was detected by Hoechst staining and confirmed by western blot analysis of poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage. Cell cycle distribution and changes of the mitochondrial membrane potential were analyzed by flow cytometry. Furthermore, the expression of caspase 3, 8 and 9 was evaluated by immunoblotting.

Results

We found that treatment of KB cells with capsaicin significantly reduced cell proliferation/viability and induced cell death in a dose-dependent manner compared with that in the untreated control. Cell cycle analysis indicated that exposure of KB cells to capsaicin resulted in cell cycle arrest at G2/M phase. Capsaicin-induced growth inhibition of KB cells appeared to be associated with induction of apoptosis. Moreover, capsaicin induced disruption of the mitochondrial membrane potential as well as activation of caspase 9, 3 and poly-(ADP-ribose) polymerase in KB cells.

Conclusions

Our data demonstrate that capsaicin modulates cell cycle progression and induces apoptosis in human KB cancer cells through mitochondrial membrane permeabilization and caspase activation. These observations suggest an anti-cancer activity of capsaicin.
Computer game-based and traditional learning method: a comparison regarding students’ knowledge retention
Authors: Rondon Silmara , Sassi Fernanda Chiarion , Furquim de Andrade Claudia Regina
Published: February 2013

Background

Educational computer games are examples of computer-assisted learning objects, representing an educational strategy of growing interest. Given the changes in the digital world over the last decades, students of the current generation expect technology to be used in advancing their learning requiring a need to change traditional passive learning methodologies to an active multisensory experimental learning methodology. The objective of this study was to compare a computer game-based learning method with a traditional learning method, regarding learning gains and knowledge retention, as means of teaching head and neck Anatomy and Physiology to Speech-Language and Hearing pathology undergraduate students.

Methods

Students were randomized to participate to one of the learning methods and the data analyst was blinded to which method of learning the students had received. Students’ prior knowledge (i.e. before undergoing the learning method), short-term knowledge retention and long-term knowledge retention (i.e. six months after undergoing the learning method) were assessed with a multiple choice questionnaire. Students’ performance was compared considering the three moments of assessment for both for the mean total score and for separated mean scores for Anatomy questions and for Physiology questions.

Results

Students that received the game-based method performed better in the pos-test assessment only when considering the Anatomy questions section. Students that received the traditional lecture performed better in both post-test and long-term post-test when considering the Anatomy and Physiology questions.

Conclusions

The game-based learning method is comparable to the traditional learning method in general and in short-term gains, while the traditional lecture still seems to be more effective to improve students’ short and long-term knowledge retention.
A gasless laparoscopic technique of wide excision for gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumor versus open method
Authors: Lee Po-Chu , Lai Peng-Sheng , Yang Ching-Yao , Chen Chiung-Nien , Lai I-Rue , Lin Ming-Tsan
Published: February 2013

Background

Traditional open surgery for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) requires a long incision. Moreover, the gas-filling laparoscopic technique used in GIST surgery still has its limitations. Therefore, we developed a gasless laparoscopic (GL) surgery for GIST and compared it with traditional open surgery.

Methods

Between October 2007 and September 2009, 62 GIST patients in the National Taiwan University Hospital received wide excisions. Of these 62 patients, 30 underwent the new procedure (GL group) and 32 had open surgery (OS group). Preoperative and postoperative clinicopathologic characteristics were compared between the groups.

Results

There were no significant differences in preoperative characteristics or blood loss. However, the days to first flatus, postoperative hospital stay, wound length, white blood cell count at postoperative day one, and peak daily body temperature were all significantly improved in the GL group. Usage of postoperative analgesia on postoperative days one to five was also significantly lower in the GL group.

Conclusions

Wide-excision laparoscopy for gastric GIST can be performed more safely, more effectively, and with faster postoperative recovery using the gasless technique as compared with the open method. We, therefore, recommend this new surgical technique, which hybridizes the advantages of both the traditional open method and pure laparoscopic surgery.
Differences in wage rates for males and females in the health sector: a consideration of unpaid overtime to decompose the gender wage gap
Authors: Vecchio Nerina , Scuffham Paul A , Hilton Michael F , Whiteford Harvey A
Published: February 2013

Background

In Australia a persistent and sizable gender wage gap exists. In recent years this gap has been steadily widening. The negative impact of gender wage differentials is the disincentive to work more hours. This implies a substantial cost on the Australian health sector. This study aimed to identify the magnitude of gender wage differentials within the health sector. The investigation accounts for unpaid overtime. Given the limited availability of information, little empirical evidence exists that accounts for unpaid overtime.

Methods

Information was collected from a sample of 10,066 Australian full-time employees within the health sector. Initially, ordinary least-squares regression was used to identify the gender wage gap when unpaid overtime was included and then excluded from the model. The sample was also stratified by gender and then by occupation to allow for comparisons. Later the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition method was employed to identify and quantify the contribution of individual endowments to wage differentials between males and females.

Results

The analyses of data revealed a gender wage gap that varied across occupations. The inclusion of unpaid overtime in the analysis led to a slight reduction in the wage differential. The results showed an adjusted wage gap of 16.7%.

Conclusions

Unpaid overtime made a significant but small contribution to wage differentials. Being female remained the major contributing factor to the wage gap. Given that wage differentials provide a disincentive to work more hours, serious attempts to deal with the skilled labour shortage in the health sector need to address the gender wage gap.
Acute exercise decreases PTP-1B protein level and improves insulin signaling in the liver of old rats
Authors: de Moura Leandro Pereira , Souza Pauli Luciana Santos , Cintra Dennys Esper , de Souza Claudio Teodoro , da Silva Adelino Sanchez Ramos , Marinho Rodolfo , de Melo Maria Alice Rostom , Ropelle Eduardo Rochete , Pauli José Rodrigo
Published: February 2013

It is now commonly accepted that chronic inflammation associated with obesity during aging induces insulin resistance in the liver. In the present study, we investigated whether the improvement in insulin sensitivity and insulin signaling, mediated by acute exercise, could be associated with modulation of protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP-1B) in the liver of old rats. Aging rats were subjected to swimming for two 1.5-h long bouts, separated by a 45 min rest period. Sixteen hours after the exercise, the rats were sacrificed and proteins from the insulin signaling pathway were analyzed by immunoblotting. Our results show that the fat mass was increased in old rats. The reduction in glucose disappearance rate (Kitt) observed in aged rats was restored 16 h after exercise. Aging increased the content of PTP-1B and attenuated insulin signaling in the liver of rats, a phenomenon that was reversed by exercise. Aging rats also increased the IRβ/PTP-1B and IRS-1/PTP-1B association in the liver when compared with young rats. Conversely, in the liver of exercised old rats, IRβ/PTP-1B and IRS-1/PTP-1B association was markedly decreased. Moreover, in the hepatic tissue of old rats, the insulin signalling was decreased and PEPCK and G6Pase levels were increased when compared with young rats. Interestingly, 16 h after acute exercise, the PEPCK and G6Pase protein level were decreased in the old exercised group. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms by which exercise restores insulin signalling in liver during aging.
Protein Structure Idealization: How accurately is it possible to model protein structures with dihedral angles?
Authors: Cui Xuefeng , Li Shuai Cheng , Bu Dongbo , Alipanahi Babak , Li Ming
Published: February 2013

Background

Previous studies show that the same type of bond lengths and angles fit Gaussian distributions well with small standard deviations on high resolution protein structure data. The mean values of these Gaussian distributions have been widely used as ideal bond lengths and angles in bioinformatics. However, we are not aware of any research done to evaluate how accurately we can model protein structures with dihedral angles and ideal bond lengths and angles.

Here, we introduce the protein structure idealization problem. We focus on the protein backbone structure idealization. We describe a fastO(nm/ε) dynamic programming algorithm to find an idealized protein backbone structure that is approximately optimal according to our scoring function. The scoring function evaluates not only the free energy, but also the similarity with the target structure. Thus, the idealized protein structures found by our algorithm are guaranteed to be protein-like and close to the target protein structure.

We have implemented our protein structure idealization algorithm and idealized the high resolution protein structures with low sequence identities of the CULLPDB_PC30_RES1.6_R0.25 data set. We demonstrate that idealized backbone structures always exist with small changes and significantly better free energy. We also applied our algorithm to refine protein pseudo-structures determined in NMR experiments.
Targeting mitochondrial reactive oxygen species as novel therapy for inflammatory diseases and cancers
Authors: Li Xinyuan , Fang Pu , Mai Jietang , Choi Eric T , Wang Hong , Yang Xiao-feng
Published: February 2013

There are multiple sources of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the cell. As a major site of ROS production, mitochondria have drawn considerable interest because it was recently discovered that mitochondrial ROS (mtROS) directly stimulate the production of proinflammatory cytokines and pathological conditions as diverse as malignancies, autoimmune diseases, and cardiovascular diseases all share common phenotype of increased mtROS production above basal levels. Several excellent reviews on this topic have been published, but ever-changing new discoveries mandated a more up-to-date and comprehensive review on this topic. Therefore, we update recent understanding of how mitochondria generate and regulate the production of mtROS and the function of mtROS both in physiological and pathological conditions. In addition, we describe newly developed methods to probe or scavenge mtROS and compare these methods in detail. Thorough understanding of this topic and the application of mtROS-targeting drugs in the research is significant towards development of better therapies to combat inflammatory diseases and inflammatory malignancies.
Laser Doppler Vibrometry measurements of human cadaveric tympanic membrane vibration
Authors: Beyea Jason A , Rohani Seyed Alireza , Ladak Hanif M , Agrawal Sumit K
Published: February 2013

Objective

To determine the feasibility of measuring tympanic membrane (TM) vibrations at multiple locations on the TM to differentiate normal eardrums from those with associated ossicular pathologies.

Design

Cadaveric human temporal bone study.

Setting

Basic science laboratory.

Methods

A mastoidectomy and facial recess approach was performed on four cadaveric temporal bones to obtain access to the ossicles without disrupting the TM. Ossicles were palpated to ensure normal mobility and an intact ossicular chain. Laser Doppler Vibrometry (LDV) measurements were then taken on all four TMs. LDV measurements were repeated on each TM following stapes footplate fixation, incudo-stapedial joint dislocation, and malleus head fixation.

Main outcome measures

LDV measurements of TM vibration at the umbo, the lateral process of the malleus, and in each of the four quadrants of the TM.

Results

The best signal-to-noise ratios were found between 2 and 4 kHz, at the umbo, the anterior superior quadrant, the anterior inferior quadrant, and the posterior inferior quadrant. Since our goal was to assess the ossicular chain, we selected the TM locations closest to the ossicular chain (the umbo and lateral process of the malleus) for further analysis. Differences could be seen between normals and the simulated ossicular pathologies, but values were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

LDV measurements are technically challenging and require optimization to obtain consistent measurements. This study demonstrates the potential of LDV to differentiate ossicular pathologies behind an intact tympanic membrane. Future studies will further characterize the clinical role of this diagnostic modality.
Resolving the spatial relationship between intracellular components by dual color super resolution optical fluctuations imaging (SOFI)
Authors: Gallina Maria Elena , Xu Jianmin , Dertinger Thomas , Aizer Adva , Shav-Tal Yaron , Weiss Shimon
Published: February 2013

Background

Multi-color super-resolution (SR) imaging microscopy techniques can resolve ultrastructural relationships between- and provide co-localization information of- different proteins inside the cell or even within organelles at a higher resolution than afforded by conventional diffraction-limited imaging. While still very challenging, important SR colocalization results have been reported in recent years using STED, PALM and STORM techniques.

Results

In this work, we demonstrate dual-color Super Resolution Optical Fluctuations Imaging (SOFI) using a standard far-field fluorescence microscope and different color blinking quantum dots. We define the spatial relationship between hDcp1a, a processing body (P-body, PB) protein, and the tubulin cytoskeletal network. Our finding could open up new perspectives on the role of the cytoskeleton in PB formation and assembly. Further insights into PB internal organization are also reported and discussed.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate the suitability and facile use of multi-color SOFI for the investigation of intracellular ultrastructures.
The BET protein FSH functionally interacts with ASH1 to orchestrate global gene activity in Drosophila
Authors: Kockmann Tobias , Gerstung Moritz , Schlumpf Tommy , Xhinzhou Zhu , Hess Daniel , Beerenwinkel Niko , Beisel Christian , Paro Renato
Published: February 2013

Background

The question of how cells re-establish gene expression states after cell division is still poorly understood. Genetic and molecular analyses have indicated that Trithorax group (TrxG) proteins are critical for the long-term maintenance of active gene expression states in many organisms. A generally accepted model suggests that TrxG proteins contribute to maintenance of transcription by protecting genes from inappropriate Polycomb group (PcG)-mediated silencing, instead of directly promoting transcription.

Results and discussion

Here we report a physical and functional interaction in Drosophila between two members of the TrxG, the histone methyltransferase ASH1 and the bromodomain and extraterminal family protein FSH. We investigated this interface at the genome level, uncovering a widespread co-localization of both proteins at promoters and PcG-bound intergenic elements. Our integrative analysis of chromatin maps and gene expression profiles revealed that the observed ASH1-FSH binding pattern at promoters is a hallmark of active genes. Inhibition of FSH-binding to chromatin resulted in global down-regulation of transcription. In addition, we found that genes displaying marks of robust PcG-mediated repression also have ASH1 and FSH bound to their promoters.

Conclusions

Our data strongly favor a global coactivator function of ASH1 and FSH during transcription, as opposed to the notion that TrxG proteins impede inappropriate PcG-mediated silencing, but are dispensable elsewhere. Instead, our results suggest that PcG repression needs to overcome the transcription-promoting function of ASH1 and FSH in order to silence genes.
Patterns of prokaryotic lateral gene transfers affecting parasitic microbial eukaryotes
Authors: Alsmark Cecilia , Foster Peter G , Sicheritz-Ponten Thomas , Nakjang Sirintra , Martin Embley T , Hirt Robert P
Published: February 2013

Background

The influence of lateral gene transfer on gene origins and biology in eukaryotes is poorly understood compared with those of prokaryotes. A number of independent investigations focusing on specific genes, individual genomes, or specific functional categories from various eukaryotes have indicated that lateral gene transfer does indeed affect eukaryotic genomes. However, the lack of common methodology and criteria in these studies makes it difficult to assess the general importance and influence of lateral gene transfer on eukaryotic genome evolution.

Results

We used a phylogenomic approach to systematically investigate lateral gene transfer affecting the proteomes of thirteen, mainly parasitic, microbial eukaryotes, representing four of the six eukaryotic super-groups. All of the genomes investigated have been significantly affected by prokaryote-to-eukaryote lateral gene transfers, dramatically affecting the enzymes of core pathways, particularly amino acid and sugar metabolism, but also providing new genes of potential adaptive significance in the life of parasites. A broad range of prokaryotic donors is involved in such transfers, but there is clear and significant enrichment for bacterial groups that share the same habitats, including the human microbiota, as the parasites investigated.

Conclusions

Our data show that ecology and lifestyle strongly influence gene origins and opportunities for gene transfer and reveal that, although the outlines of the core eukaryotic metabolism are conserved among lineages, the genes making up those pathways can have very different origins in different eukaryotes. Thus, from the perspective of the effects of lateral gene transfer on individual gene ancestries in different lineages, eukaryotic metabolism appears to be chimeric.
Seshadri constants on smooth threefolds
Authors: Cascini Paolo , Nakamaye Michael
Published: February 2013

We prove that the Seshadri constant of an ample line bundle at a very general point of a smooth projective threefold is larger than 1/2. While falling short of the conjectured lower bound of one, this improves on known results. We systematically exploit new results and ideas related to the variation and complexity of base loci.
Subconvexity for additive equations: Pairs of undenary cubic forms
Authors: Brüdern Jörg , Wooley Trevor D.
Published: February 2013

We investigate pairs of diagonal cubic equations with integral coefficients. For a class of such Diophantine systems with 11 or more variables, we are able to establish that the number of integral solutions in a large box is at least as large as the expected order of magnitude.
Postpartum takotsubo cardiomyopathy with reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome: a case report
Authors: Enderton Elizabeth L. , Cardwell Michael Steven
Published: February 2013

Postpartum takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a rare phenomenon caused by stress-induced, elevated levels of catecholamines and vasoconstrictive agents or by the administration of vasoconstrictive drugs such as bromocriptine and ergotrates. The condition has only been described in the past 20 years. The usual clinical course is complete resolution, although maternal mortality is estimated at 1%. An equally rare condition is postpartum reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Like postpartum takotsubo cardiomyopathy, the etiology of postpartum cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome is thought to involve stress-induced, elevated levels of catecholamines and vasoconstrictive agents. Also, like postpartum takotsubo cardiomyopathy, the usual clinical course is complete resolution. This is the first reported case where both of these rare conditions occurred in the same patient after spontaneous vaginal delivery.
Classification of homogeneous holomorphic hermitian principal bundles over G/K
Authors: Biswas Indranil
Published: February 2013

We give a complete classification of isomorphism classes of homogeneous holomorphic hermitian principal bundles over an irreducible hermitian symmetric space of noncompact type.
This generalizes the results of our earlier work [Kyoto J. Math. 50 (2010), 325–363]
where homogeneous holomorphic hermitian principal bundles over the upper half-plane were considered.
Synthesis and Characterization of Uniform Zirconia Particles by Homogeneous Precipitation Method
Authors: Akhtar Khalida , Haq Ikram Ul , Hira Uzma
Published: February 2013

Colloidal spherical particles (micrometer size) of zirconia were synthesized at 50°C by homogeneous precipitation method from aqueous solutions, containing appropriate amounts of zirconium chloride, hydrochloric acid, potassium sulphate and urea. Results revealed that reactants concentration significantly affected characteristics of the precipitated solids, which ranged from gel to dispersion of discrete particles. Size uniformity in the resulted particles was obtained only under limited conditions. SEM images revealed that particles of zirconia obtained under the described experimental conditions have spherical morphology, which maintained their original shape after calcination at 700°C. Selected powders were also characterized with XRD, TGA/DTA, and FT-IR techniques. XRD results showed that as-prepared and calcined powders were crystalline. We believe that our method is simple and has the potential for further tailoring of the particles characteristics. Work is in progress in our laboratory in developing Cu-ZrO2 metal matrix composite coating on steel substrate with better resistant properties than simple Cu electroplating.
Electron-beam irradiation of low density polyethylene/ethylene vinyl acetate blends
Authors: Sabet Maziyar , Hassan Azman , Ratnam Chantara Thevy
Published: February 2013

In this work, the properties of electron-beam irradiated low density polyethylene (LDPE), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and blends were investigated. EVA addition had an enhancement effect on crosslinking of irradiated LDPE/EVA blends. The measured gel content increase of the blends and the improvement of thermal elongation, tensile strength, elongation at break, thermal aging and heat deformation, have confirmed the positive effects of electron-beam irradiation on the blend properties. The crystallinity of the blends decreased with irradiation. The gel content and hot set tests showed that the degree of crosslinking in the amorphous regions was dependent on the dose and blend composition. Increasing the EVA content resulted in tighter network structures. A significant improvement in the tensile strength of the neat EVA samples was obtained upon electron-beam irradiation up to 210 kGy. The irradiated LDPE/EVA blends showed improved tensile strength and elongation at break, when compared to LDPE. The enhanced irradiation crosslinking of the LDPE/EVA blends was proportional to the good compatibility and the increasing degree of the amorphous region’s content of the LDPE/EVA blends. The possible degradation mechanism of LDPE/EVA blends was discussed quantitatively with a novel method step analysis process of irradiated LDPE/EVA blends in the thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) technique. It was found, with measuring thermal conductivity (k) and specific heat capacity (Cp) of the blends, that the k values of the LDPE samples at a prescribed temperature range decreased with increasing irradiation. An increase in the crystallinity led to an increase in the k values and a decrease in the Cp values of the LDPE samples. Irradiation below 150 kGy decreased the Cp (at 40°C) and k in average values, whereas increasing the EVA made enhanced the Cp and k values of LDPE/EVA blends at each irradiation. The surface resistance and volume resistivity (VR) of the blends reached a maximum at a 170 kGy irradiation and 30 wt% of EVA. Increasing the amount of EVA contents resulted in enhancement of the dielectric loss factor for the irradiated blends.
Der Tempel – ein Ort der Krankenheilung?
Authors: Koerting Corinna
Published: February 2013

In the Psalms the temple is praised as the place of prayer and the presence of the God »who heals all your infirmities« (Ps 103,3). But is this place of exceptional closeness to God at all accessible for the sick to bring their prayers before God there? Do not the purity laws close off this way, since God’s presence requires purity of everyone who approaches him? Studies of texts show that in Mesopotamia as well as in Israel the sick were generally cared for outside the temple. Those who support them with rituals and prayers are, of course, in Israel even more than in Mesopotamia, on the temple staff. Even the sick can lay claim to their help at the temple, for it is a basic principle that the required purity, whether for the sick or for those afflicted in some other way, can also be restored at the temple. Only a few forms of sickness or physical impairment exclude the individual for a limited period from access to the temple.

Dans les Psaumes, on loue le temple comme lieu de prière et de la présence de Dieu, »Celui qui pardonne toutes les iniquités« (Ps. 103,3). Cependant, ce lieu de la plus grande proximité avec Dieu est-il accessible au malade pour qu’il y présente sa prière à Dieu? Les lois de pureté n’excluent-elles pas cet accès, puisque la pureté est exigée de celui qui s’approche de Dieu? Or l’étude des sources montre qu’en Mésopotamie autant qu’en Israël, les malades étaient surtout soignés en-dehors des temples. Ceux qui se réfèrent au rite et à la prière sont cependant, en Israël plus encore qu’en Mésopotamie, liés au temple. Le malade peut en attendre le bénéfice au temple car il importe, pour le malade comme pour le malheureux, que la pureté requise soit aussi restaurée dans le cadre du temple. Seules certaines formes, rares, de maladies ou d’handicaps corporels excluent l’individu du temple, pour une durée limitée.

In den Psalmen wird der Tempel als Ort des Gebets und als Ort der Gegenwart des Gottes gepriesen, »der all deine Gebrechen heilt« (Ps 103,3). Doch ist dieser Ort größtmöglicher Gottesnähe für den Kranken überhaupt erreichbar, um sein Gebet hier vor Gott zu bringen? Schließen die Reinheitsgebote diesen Weg nicht aus, da Gottes Gegenwart Reinheit eines jeden verlangt, der sich ihm nähert? Quellenstudien zeigen, dass Kranke in Mesopotamien wie auch in Israel hauptsächlich außerhalb der Tempel betreut wurden. Diejenigen, die sie durch Ritual und Gebet stützen, sind allerdings, in Israel mehr noch als in Mesopotamien, an den Tempel gebunden. Ihre Hilfe kann auch der Kranke am Tempel in Anspruch nehmen, denn grundsätzlich gilt, dass die erforderliche Reinheit, sei es für Kranke oder durch Unglück Getroffene, auch am Tempel wiederhergestellt wird. Allein einige wenige Krankheitsbilder oder körperliche Beeinträchtigungen schließen den Einzelnen zeitlich begrenzt vom Zugang zum Tempel aus.
Reconsidering שׁוֹט שֺׁטֵף
Authors: Yoder Tyler R.
Published: February 2013

Nearly one hundred years ago J. Barth proposed an additional lexical entry for Hebrew šôţ (»scourge, whip«), basing his argument primarily on the difficult readings in Isa 28,15.18. He supported this new lexeme, šôţ II (»flood«), with late linguistic evidence from Ethiopic and (Qur’anic) Arabic. Scholarship has largely followed suit, adopting the meaning of šôţ II in these verses. However, here within a context steeped in satirical rhetoric and treaty imagery, šôţ finds a more natural explanation in light of both its earlier attestation in Isa 10,26 as a divine weapon and its connection to covenantal retribution. In addition to drawing attention to unique literary features, this essay employs inner-biblical exegesis (e.g. Lev 26) to interpret the references in Isa 28,15.18 as stylistic adaptations of a common biblical motif: divine vengeance enacted against covenantal infidelity.

Il y a près d’un siècle, J. Barth a proposé une entrée lexicale supplémentaire pour l’hébreu šôţ – »fouet, fléau«, en se référant principalement aux lectures difficiles en Es. 28,15.18. Il fonda ce nouveau lexème šôţ II – »flot«, en référence à des données linguistiques tardives, l’éthiopien et l’arabe coranique. Cette hypothèse a été largement adoptée par la recherche pour le sens de šôţ II dans ces versets. Néanmoins, dans ce passage marqué à la fois par une rhétorique satirique et une symbolique de l’alliance, le lexème trouve une explication plus obvie par son attestation antériere en Es. 10,26, comme arme divine, instrument de la rétribution en contexte d’alliance brisée. A titre complémentaire et en utilisant l’exégèse intrabiblique (par ex. Lév. 26), l’A. voit en Es. 28,15.18 une adaptation stylistique d’un thème biblique commun: la vengeance divine qui vise celui qui brise le pacte d’alliance.

Vor fast 100 Jahren hat J. Barth vorgeschlagen, für das hebräische šôţ (»Peitsche, Geißel«) einen zusätzlichen Eintrag in die Wörterbücher aufzunehmen, wobei er sich vor allem auf die schwierigen Lesungen in Jes 28,15.18 berief. Er stützte dieses neue Lexem, šôţ II (»Flut«), mit jüngeren Belegen aus dem Äthiopischen und dem (Koran-)Arabischen. Die Forschung ist ihm weithin gefolgt, indem sie in diesen Versen die Bedeutung von šôţ II annahm. Hier jedoch, in einem Kontext, der von satirischer Rhetorik und Vertragsmotivik überquillt, findet šôţ eine natürlichere Erklärung im Licht sowohl seiner früheren Bezeugung in Jes 10,26 als eine göttliche Waffe als auch in seiner Assoziation mit Vertragsstrafen. Über die Beachtung singulärer literarischer Befunde hinaus beschäftigt sich dieser Beitrag mit innerbiblischer Exegese (z.B. Lev 26), um die Belege in Jes 28,15.18 als stilistische Anwendungen eines verbreiteten biblischen Motivs zu interpretieren: Der Beschluss göttlicher Rache angesichts von Vertragsuntreue.
Lexikographie und Angewandte Linguistik
Authors: Wiegand Herbert Ernst
Published: February 2013

Firstly, Applied Linguistics is characterised as a discipline in its own rightthat contributes to solutions of social problems in the domain of languageand communication. After the dismissal of various expert opinions regardingthe status of language lexicography, including the opinion that languagelexicography belongs to Applied Linguistics or to one of its subdomains,scientific language lexicography is characterised as a scientificpractice in all its social and medial manifestations. Its aim is the productionof among others printed and electronic language dictionaries, conceptualisedin accordance with dictionary functions as mono- and polyfunctionallanguage lexicographic utility instruments (or language-directed lexicotools)for each specific user group. This is done to enable a cultural praxisof providing the required knowledge. The controversial question whethercollaborative internet language lexicography can be regarded as scientificlanguage lexicography remains an open one. In a second step, the relationsbetween language lexicography and Applied Linguistics are described.When learners’ dictionaries are used in foreign language teaching, languagelexicography is, e. g., the data- and product-rendering discipline, whereasApplied Linguistics is the product-using and data-accepting discipline. Inthe professional treatment of the subject matter of language dictionaries,Applied Linguistics is the data-rendering discipline because linguisticknowledge is employed and language lexicography is the data-acceptingdiscipline. This does not apply to the treatment of structures, for which(meta)-lexicographic knowledge is needed. In conclusion, the completefield of lexicography in all its manifestations is situated within the scientificcommunity. It follows that, in the treatment of the subject matter of dictionaries,almost all career and scientific disciplines are data-rendering disciplinesfor lexicography. Corpus linguistics plays a significant role in theestablishment of lexico-toolbases. All types of lexico-tools constitute the domain of the empirical subject dictionary matter of systematic metalexicography.Systematic metalexicography also has among others interdisciplinaryrelations as data-rendering discipline with informatics and mathematics.Therefore it should be regarded as part of information science.
Complexation thermodynamics and structural studies of trivalent actinide and lanthanide complexes with DTPA, MS-325 and HMDTPA
Authors: Thakur Punam , Conca James L. , Dodge Cleveland J. , Francis Arokiasamy J. , Choppin Gregory R.
Published: February 2013

The protonation constants of DTPA (diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid) and two derivatives of DTPA, 1-R(4,4-diphenyl cyclohexyl-phosphonyl-methyl diethylenentriaminepentaacetic acid (MS-325) and (R)-hydroxymethyl-diethylenentriaminepentaacetic acid (HMDTPA) were determined by potentiometric titration in 0.1 M NaClO4. The formation of 1 : 1 complexes of Am3+, Cm3+ and Ln3+ cations with these three ligands were investigated by potentiometric titration with competition by ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and the solvent extraction method in aqueous solutions of I=0.10 M NaClO4. The thermodynamic data of complexation were determined by the temperature dependence of the stability constants and by calorimetry. The complexation is exothermic and becomes weaker with increase in temperature. The complexation strength of these ligands follows the order: DTPA ≈ HMDTPA > MS-325. Eu3+/Cm3+ luminescence, EXAFS (Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure) and DFT (Density Functional Theory) calculations suggest that all three ligands are octadentate in the complex. In the complex, M(L)2− (L = DTPA, MS-325 and HMDTPA). The M3+ binds via five carboxylates oxygen atoms, three nitrogen atoms, and the complex contains one water of hydration.
A novel and facile approach for the preparation of 133Ba source core, encapsulation and quality evaluation
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Gandhi Shyamala S. , Nuwad J. , Udhayakumar J. , Dash Ashutosh
Published: February 2013

This paper describes a facile and effective method to prepare 133Ba source exploiting the intrinsic properties of the anodized titanium to electro-deposit 133Ba from an aqueous solution. The process consists of anodization of Ti rod [4.8 mm (∅)  ×  10 mm (l)] to create a reactive surface to permit cathodic electrodeposition of 133Ba from an aqueous solution. The factors that influence the electrodeposition of 133Ba onto the anodized titanium substrate were identified and a careful control has been exercised to ensure optimum deposition of 133Ba activity onto the substrate. The morphology of the electrodeposited samples were examined by SEM and EDS analyses. Sources containing ∼ 3.7–11.1 MBq (0.1–0.3 mCi) 133Ba were prepared, encapsulated successfully in titanium capsules and subjected to quality control tests to ensure compliance with mandatory regulatory safety requirements.
Progress on Searching Optimal Thermal Spray Parameters for Magnesium Silicide
Authors: Fu Gaosheng , Zuo Lei , Longtin Jon , Chen Yikai , Sampath Sanjay
Published: February 2013

The thermoelectric properties of Mg2Si coatings prepared by Atmospheric Plasma Spray (APS), and Vacuum Plasma Spray (VPS) are presented. Seebeck coefficient results of both APS and VPS have been reported. XRD and SEM analysis of the samples are also presented to understand how microstructure influences the coating thermoelectric properties. The results suggest significant improvements can be made on the reduction of impurity including oxidation and pure silicon by using proper spray method and parameters. Thermal spray has been demonstrated before to be effective way to reduce thermal conductivity which may due to the coating microstructure. VPS result shows higher Seebeck coefficient than APS which may due to lower level of oxidization.
What Is Cognitive Education?
Authors: Sternberg Robert J.
Published: February 2013

Cognitive education is education that seeks to improve the cognitive (mental) skills of the student in order that the students can lead constructive and satisfying lives. There are many different models for cognitive education, but I have constructed a career doing cognitive education through a “theory of successful intelligence” (Sternberg, 1997, 2010; Sternberg & Grigorenko, 2007; Sternberg, Jarvin, & Grigorenko, 2009; Sternberg, Kaufman, & Grigorenko, 2008)—a theory that can be used in teaching not only on a small scale but also on a large scale.

In this article, I first describe the theory of successful intelligence. Next, I describe how the theory has been augmented in recent years through the addition of wisdom. Then I discuss an even more recent addition, the role of ethical reasoning and behavior. Finally, I draw some conclusions.
Cognitive Education: Constructivist Perspectives on Schooling, Assessment, and Clinical Applications
Authors: Carlson Jerry S. , Wiedl Karl H.
Published: February 2013

Our responses to the five questions concerning cognitive education that Robert Sternberg raised focus on the school, the learner, and applications to clinical settings.

Considering the school and the learner, we emphasize constructivist theory and applications of learner-centered instructional and assessment approaches. Considering applications to clinical settings, we focus on cognitive remediation and dynamic assessment (DA) approaches that address the impaired balance of cognitive level and task requirement for people with psychoses and other cognitive or developmental disorders. Emphasis is on the goal of including these persons into communities of learners that will be able to benefit from cognitive education.
Dynamic Testing and Individualized Instruction: Helpful in Cognitive Education?
Authors: Resing Wilma C. M.
Published: February 2013

An important theme in educational practice is to tailor instruction to the individual needs of children. Particular forms of group instruction may be effective for specific children; other children will profit most from a more individual approach. The contribution aims to focus on the question whether such tailored forms of instruction can be found in a dynamic assessment context and explores the potential usefulness of dynamic testing and instruction for cognitive education. The principal characteristic of dynamic testing or assessment is that children are explicitly provided with feedback, prompts, or training intended to enable them to show progress when solving cognitive tasks. Outcomes of dynamic testing and assessment could, in principle, provide educational psychologists or teachers with information regarding learning outcomes during intervention. Although it has been claimed that such approaches may have more to offer to psychologists or educationists than traditional standardized test outputs, not all approaches are suitable for this aim. This article focuses on the potential usefulness of the outcomes of the graduated prompts approach in dynamic testing and instruction. It can be concluded that a combination of both dynamic procedures is a very promising one, which needs further exploration in the future.
Desmoplastic Fibroma: A Case Report with Three Years of Clinical and Radiographic Observation and Review of the Literature
Authors: Nedopil Alexander , Raab Peter , Rudert Maximilian
Published: February 2013

Background:

Desmoplastic fibroma (DF) is an extremely rare locally aggressive bone tumor with an incidence of 0.11% of all primary bone tumors. The typical clinical presentation is pain and swelling above the affected area. The most common sites of involvement are the mandible and the metaphysis of long bones. Histologically and biologically, desmoplastic fibroma mimics extra-abdominal desmoid tumor of soft tissue.

Case Presentation and Literature Review:

A case of a 27-year old man with DF in the ilium, including the clinical, radiological and histological findings over a 4-year period is presented here. CT scans performed in 3-year intervals prior to surgical intervention were compared with respect to tumor extension and cortical breakthrough. The patient was treated with curettage and grafting based on anatomical considerations. Follow-up CT scans over 18-months are also documented here. Additionally, a review and analysis of 271 cases including the presented case with particular emphasis on imaging patterns in MRI and CT as well as treatment modalities and outcomes are presented.

Conclusion:

In patients with desmoplastic fibroma, CT is the preferred imaging technique for both the diagnosis of intraosseus tumor extension and assessment of cortical involvement, whereas MRI is favored for the assessment of extraosseus tumor growth and preoperative planning. While tumor resection remains the preferred treatment for DF, curettage and grafting prove to be an acceptable alternative treatment modality with close follow-up when resection is not possible. Curettage and grafting have been shown to provide good clinical results and are associated with long recurrence free intervals.
A criterion based on computational singular perturbation for the construction of reduced mechanism for dimethyl ether oxidation
Authors: Wu Zuozhu , Qiao Xinqi , Huang Zhen
Published: February 2013

A criterion based on the computational singular perturbation (CSP) method is
proposed in order to determine the number of quasi-steady state (QSS)
species. This criterion is employed for the reduction of a detailed chemical
kinetics mechanism for the oxidation of dimethyl ether (DME), involving 55
species and 290 reactions, leading to a 20 steps reduced mechanism which
involves 26 species. A software package, named I-CSP, was developed to make
the reduction process algorithmic. Input to the I-CSP includes (i) the
detailed mechanism, (ii) the numerical solution of the problem for a specific
set of operating conditions, (iii) the number of quasi steady state (QSS)
species. The resulting reduced mechanism was validated both in homogenous
reactor, including auto-ignition and PSR, over a wide range of pressures and
equivalence ratios, and in a one-dimensional, unstretched, premixed, laminar
steady DME/Air flame. Comparison of the results calculated with the detailed
and the reduced mechanisms shows excellent agreement in the case of
homogenous reactor, but discrepancies can be observed in the case of the
premixed laminar flame.
Placental Mesenchymal Dysplasia and Fetal Renal-Hepatic-Pancreatic Dysplasia: Androgenetic-Biparental Mosaicism and Pathogenesis of an Autosomal Recessive Disorder
Authors: Kapur Raj P. , Cole Bonnie , Zhang Min , Lin Jingxian , Fligner Corinne L.
Published: February 2013

Androgenetic-biparental mosaicism (ABM) denotes an embryo in which a subset of cells contains a diploid chromosomal complement derived entirely from the father. Such embryos have a high incidence of placental mesenchymal dysplasia (PMD) and paternal imprinting disorders because the androgenetic cells have pangenomic paternal uniparental disomy. Uniparental disomy also poses a theoretical risk for paternally transmitted autosomal recessive disorders, if both chromosomes of each autosomal pair are identical (isodisomy). We present the 1st example of a recessive disorder, renal-hepatic-pancreatic dysplasia, in a pregnancy complicated by PMD and ABM. Androgenetic-biparental mosaicism was demonstrated in fetal DNA, extracted from multiple organs, by quantitative polymerase chain reaction–based methods that detected allelic imbalances at the differentially methylated SNRPN locus (chromosome 15); polymorphic short tandem repeat microsatellite markers located on chromosomes 4, 7, 8, 13, 18, and 21; and single nucleotide polymorphisms on chromosomes 1 and 19. Laser capture microdissection was performed to isolate specific placental and renal cell populations and document selective enrichment of androgenetic cells in the stroma of PMD and the epithelium of renal cysts. Mutational analysis of coding sequences did not reveal any mutations in NPHP3, a ciliopathy gene implicated in some cases of renal-hepatic-pancreatic dysplasia. Nonetheless, the fetal phenotype and laser capture data support the model of a paternally transmitted autosomal recessive disorder, which occurred because of ABM.