bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The social and cultural impact of advertising among Chilean youths
Authors: Vergara-Leyton Enrique , Rodríguez-Salineros Maite
Published: September 2010

This work analyzes the impact of advertising among Chilean youngsters of different socioeconomic background. We aim to identify the relationship that this group establishes with advertising and, in particular, the way they incorporate it in their socialization strategies. We do not address what advertising does to youngsters, but instead what youngsters do with advertising in their practices of appropriation and reception of it. The research design included focus groups of male and female youngsters living in Santiago de Chile between 15 and 24 years of age coming from both high and low-income background. The conclusion of our research is that advertising is assumed by youngsters as a constitutive part of the media offering, which is used both as commercial information and as a cultural referent of new aesthetic values. Furthermore, advertising represents a socializing agent for this group because they incorporate the content of advertising in their exchange with their peers. Finally, this work concludes that advertising represents a sociocultural fact of the first order for the Chilean youth, because it is a central actor of their daily life.

El presente trabajo analiza el impacto de la publicidad entre jóvenes chilenos de distintos estratos socioeconómicos, con el objetivo de identificar la relación que establecen con la publicidad y la particular incorporación que hacen de ésta en sus estrategias de socialización. Por lo tanto, no se pretende dar cuenta de lo que la publicidad hace con los jóvenes, sino de lo que los jóvenes hacen con la publicidad a través de sus prácticas de recepción y apropiación. Para esto, se realizó un estudio sobre la base de grupos de discusión a jóvenes de ambos sexos, de edades entre 15 y 24 años provenientes de los niveles socioeconómicos altos y bajos residentes en Santiago de Chile. Los resultados que arrojó el estudio dan cuenta de que la publicidad es asumida como parte constitutiva de la oferta medial, la que es utilizada como información comercial y referente cultural de nuevos valores estéticos. Junto con esto, la publicidad adquiere el carácter de agente de socialización, al incorporar los contenidos de los mensajes publicitarios en las conversaciones con sus pares. Finalmente, este trabajo concluye que la publicidad entre los jóvenes chilenos estudiados, se presenta como una realidad sociocultural de primer orden, en cuanto actor central de su vida cotidiana.
Discourse analysis in the quality of expected learning
Authors: Schalk-Quintanar Ana-Elena , Marcelo-García Carlos
Published: September 2010

Universities are gradually implementing virtual learning processes. However, research still remains limited in examining the internal processes that occur in learning in virtual environments. This article presents an investigation that seeks to describe the relationship between the quality of interaction in asynchronous discussion forums in training experiences in e-learning, and the quality of learning offered and achieved. The main objective was to determine how interactions in online environments add quality to the learning of students. For this, a descriptive investigation was done that combines qualitative and quantitative phase, analyzing more than 10,000 messages in 171 participants from four postgraduate courses developed in the form of e-learning. Asynchronous communication was analyzed through a category system that analyzes the social, cognitive and didactic discourse online. Among the research findings, there highlights a positive relationship between quality and quantity of speech of the participants and the quality of learning achieved and reflected in the different levels of assessment. We can conclude that the need to analyze, not only the written discourse in asynchronous communication, but also to establish relations with both cognitive and social learning of students. Moreover, we conclude the necessity to train teachers to deal with the processes of online communication.

Las Universidades están implementando de forma progresiva procesos de formación virtual. Sin embargo, todavía resulta escasa la investigación que analiza los procesos internos en lo que se produce el aprendizaje en ambientes virtuales. En este artículo se presenta una investigación que busca describir la relación entre la calidad de la interacción, en los foros de discusión asincrónica en experiencias de formación en e-learning, y la calidad de los aprendizajes propuestos y logrados. El principal objetivo consistió en conocer, de qué forma las interacciones en los espacios virtuales, aportan calidad a los aprendizajes de los alumnos. Para ello se realizó un estudio descriptivo que combina una fase cualitativa y una cuantitativa, analizando más de 10.000 mensajes en 171 participantes de cuatro cursos de postgrado desarrollados en la modalidad de e-learning. Se analizó la comunicación asíncrona, a través de un sistema de categorías que contenía dimensiones sociales, cognitivas y didácticas del discurso on-line. Entre los resultados de la investigación se destaca una relación positiva entre la calidad y cantidad del discurso de los participantes y la calidad de los aprendizajes obtenidos y reflejados en las diferentes instancias de evaluación. Podemos concluir la necesidad de hacer un análisis, más allá del discurso escrito, para establecer relaciones con los aprendizajes tanto cognitivos como sociales de los alumnos. Por otra parte concluimos la necesidad de formar a los docentes para abordar los procesos de comunicación on-line.
Online students´ satisfaction with blended tearning
Authors: Cabero-Almenara Julio , Llorente-Cejudo María-del-Carmen , Puentes-Puente Angel
Published: September 2010

This paper shows the results obtained from a blended training experience based on internet usage, more specifically, under the Blended Learning (b-learning) modality carried out on first year students of Philosophy and Physics at the Pontifical University of Dominican Republic. The theoretical model in which the experience, that is, b-learning, is sustained will be first presented and described, emphasizing the separation of activities to be done in virtual and attending sessions. Information was gathered for the purpose of this study through three different but complementary instruments: students’ satisfaction questionnaire, interviews with students and interviews with lecturers by e-mail. The results achieved and the level of students’ satisfaction show the significance of the experience as well as some limitations found concerning the need for teacher training and the difficulty of changing the organizational structures are highlighted. Some of the conclusions point to the favorable attitude shown by teachers and students in blended learning, as well as the need for universities to include centers that support teacher training in these formative actions.

En este artículo se exponen los resultados obtenidos a través de una experiencia de formación semipresencial apoyada en el uso de las redes, más concretamente, bajo la modalidad blended learning (b-learning) llevada a cabo con los estudiantes de primero de la licenciatura que cursaban la asignatura de Filosofía y Química en la Universidad Pontificia de República Dominicana. Para ello se parte de la presentación y fundamentación del modelo teórico en el cual se sustenta la experiencia, es decir, el b-learning, haciendo especial hincapié en la separación de las actividades a realizar en las sesiones virtuales y presenciales. En el estudio se recogió información a través de tres instrumentos diferentes pero complementarios para nuestro objeto de estudio: cuestionario de satisfacción de los estudiantes, entrevistas a los alumnos y entrevistas mediante correo electrónico a los profesores. Los resultados alcanzados y el nivel de satisfacción de los alumnos nos muestran la significación de la experiencia, así como, al mismo tiempo se apuntan algunas de las limitaciones encontradas referidas a la necesidad de capacitación del profesorado y a la dificultad que supone transformar las estructuras organizativas. Algunas de las conclusiones apuntan hacia la actitud favorable que tanto profesores como estudiantes muestran hacia la formación semipresencial, así como la necesidad de la existencia en la universidad de instituciones que apoyen la formación del profesorado en dichas acciones formativas.
Use of information and communication technologies in Castilla & León universities
Authors: Baelo-Álvarez Roberto , Cantón-Mayo Isabel
Published: September 2010

This paper explores the uses of information and communication technologies (ICT) in the universities of Castilla y León. We believe that the integration of ICT in the universities is essential for the development of a university system in line with the requirements of the knowledge society. This piece of work must be placed within a research that has analyzed the use of ICT in higher education in the universities of Castilla y León. In our view, the uses of ICT in higher education are one of the main key indicators for its level of integration. With this research, whose goals relate to ascertaining the level of integration of ICT in the universities of Castilla y León, we seek to identify the factors that influence the use-avoidance of ICT by the professors, and to describe the uses that they do of ICT in the development of their profession (teaching and research).For this reason, we have conducted an ex-postfacto research with a descriptive and improvement-seeking motivation. Even though the results of this research highlight the widespread use of ICTs within the universities, they also point out that this use is superficial and indicate a lack of actual integration of ICT in the universities of Castilla y León.

El presente trabajo se enmarca dentro de una investigación que ha analizado la utilización que se hacen de las tecnologías de la información y la comunicación (TIC) en la educación superior en los centros universitarios de Castilla y León. Bajo nuestra perspectiva los usos de las TIC por parte del docente se conforman como un indicador esencial para conocer el grado de integración que éstas tienen dentro de las universidades. De esta forma los objetivos principales de la presente investigación se encuentran en relación con la indagación sobre el nivel de integración de las TIC existente en los centros universitarios de Castilla y León, tratando de identificar los elementos que influyen tanto en la utilización, como en el no uso de las TIC por parte del docente universitario, para posteriormente hacer un descripción sobre los usos a los que el profesorado destina las TIC en el desarrollo de su actividad profesional, tanto en el ámbito docente, como en el investigador. Para ello se ha llevado a cabo una investigación ex-postfacto, con una orientación descriptiva y de búsqueda de la mejora, cuyos resultados inciden en una generalización en la utilización de las TIC dentro de la educación superior de Castilla y León, aunque se ha de señalar que esta utilización se encuentra referida a unos usos superficiales de las TIC, lo que denota una falta de integración real de las TIC en las universidades de Castilla y León.
ICT competences of future teachers
Authors: Prendes-Espinosa María-Paz , Castañeda-Quintero Linda , Gutiérrez-Porlán Isabel
Published: September 2010

ICT competences are an essential part of teachers’ curriculums in Spain. This paper presents an analysis of the technical skills in the use of ICT of future primary school teachers in the final year of teacher training at the University of Murcia (period 2008- 2009). This analysis adopts a three dimensional approach. Firstly, it aims to explore students’ mastery of the technical skills in using ICT. Secondly, it analyses how the university is working in terms of developing ICT skills in professionals in general. Finally, but probably most importantly, it attempts to show the current ICT levels of the future school teachers. This analysis is crucial, and not only for teachers who are already working. It is equally, if not more so, for newly trained teachers on the point of going into formal education in schools. Therefore, this study helps us to evaluate them not only as students, professionals and teachers who use ICT, but at the same time it help us to assess if a course at a Higher Education institution is a real way of obtaining minimum knowledge of this area. This is crucial in integrating new teachers into the new social and technological environment and it makes the evaluation of transversal competences in the University of Murcia real.

Las competencias tecnológicas de los maestros son un elemento básico de sus planes de formación en España. En este artículo se presenta un análisis de las competencias para el uso de TIC por parte de estudiantes de último curso de la titulación de Magisterio de la Universidad de Murcia en el curso 2008-09. El objetivo ha sido describir el grado de competencias técnicas que poseen los futuros maestros. El análisis de los datos se ha realizado desde un enfoque tridimensional, pues en primer lugar se han considerado aspectos del dominio técnico; en segundo lugar se ofrece una visión de cómo se encuentra dicha competencia en los estudiantes; y por último –y probablemente lo más relevante–, se considera cuál es el estado de competencia técnica para el uso de las TIC que tienen los docentes de futura incorporación a nuestra aulas. Este análisis permite no sólo evaluarles como estudiantes, profesionales y docentes que usan las TIC, sino que permite tener una idea de si el paso por una institución universitaria supone la garantía de tener unos mínimos conocimientos en esta área que sean de utilidad a la hora de incorporarse como profesionales, docentes y aprendices del nuevo entorno tecno-social, es decir, permite una aproximación a la evaluación de las competencias TIC que son no sólo propias de este título de Grado, sino también son competencias genéricas de la Universidad de Murcia.
Naturally Occurring CD4+CD25+ Regulatory T Cells Prevent but Do Not Improve Experimental Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Nessi Valeria , Nava Sara , Ruocco Chiara , Toscani Chiara , Mantegazza Renato , Antozzi Carlo , Baggi Fulvio
Published: September 2010

In the current study, we investigated whether naturally occurring CD4+CD25+ T cells, separated by immunomagnetic anti-CD4 and anti-CD25 Abs from naive animals, are able to protect from experimental autoimmune myasthenia gravis (EAMG) and modify the progression of ongoing disease when administered to Torpedo californica acetylcholine receptor (AChR)-immunized Lewis rats. Even though CD4+CD25+ and CD4+CD25high T cell frequencies were similar in the spleens and lymph nodes of EAMG and healthy rats, we observed that CD4+CD25+ T cells isolated from the spleens of naive animals inhibited in vitro the Ag-induced proliferation of T cell lines specific to the self-peptide 97–116 of the anti-AChR subunit (R97-116), an immunodominant and myasthenogenic T cell epitope, whereas CD4+CD25+ T cells purified from the spleens of EAMG rats were less effective. CD4+CD25+ T cells from EAMG rats expressed less forkhead box transcription factor P3 but more CTLA-4 mRNA than healthy rats. Naive CD4+CD25+ T cells, obtained from naive rats and administered to T. californica AChR-immunized animals according to a preventive schedule of treatment, reduced the severity of EAMG, whereas their administration 4 wk postinduction of the disease, corresponding to the onset of clinical symptoms (therapeutic treatment), was not effective. We think that the exogenous administration of CD4+CD25+ naive T cells prevents the early events underlying the induction of EAMG, events linked to the T cell compartment (Ag recognition, epitope spreading, and T cell expansion), but fails to ameliorate ongoing EAMG, when the IgG-mediated complement attack to the AChR at the neuromuscular junction has already taken place.
Steroid Receptor Coactivator 3 Is Required for Clearing Bacteria and Repressing Inflammatory Response in Escherichia coli-Induced Septic Peritonitis
Authors: Chen Qiang , Chen Tenghui , Xu Yixiang , Zhu Jingwei , Jiang Yuan , Zhao Yang , Xu Jianming , Yu Chundong
Published: September 2010

Steroid receptor coactivator 3 (SRC-3) is a multifunctional protein that plays an important role in regulation of bacterial LPS-induced inflammation. However, its involvement in host defense against bacterial infection remains unclear. In this study, we used SRC-3 knockout mice to assess the role of SRC-3 in antibacterial defense in Escherichia coli-induced septic peritonitis. After E. coli bacteria were injected i.p., SRC-3–deficient mice exhibited excessive local and systemic inflammatory responses and more severe bacterial burdens, leading to a significantly higher mortality compared with wild-type mice. Peritoneal macrophages of SRC-3–deficient mice showed a decrease in bacterial phagocytosis in culture and an increase in apoptosis, which was consistent with the defective bacterial clearance observed in SRC-3–deficient mice. Accordingly, SRC-3 null macrophages expressed much lower levels of scavenger receptor A, the antioxidant enzyme catalase, and antiapoptotic gene Bcl-2. Collectively, our data demonstrate that SRC-3 is important not only in modulating the local and systemic inflammation but also in intensifying bacterial clearance, which highlights a pivotal role of SRC-3 in the host defense system against bacterial infection.
TGF-β1 Accelerates Dendritic Cell Differentiation from Common Dendritic Cell Progenitors and Directs Subset Specification toward Conventional Dendritic Cells
Authors: Felker Piritta , Seré Kristin , Lin Qiong , Becker Christiane , Hristov Mihail , Hieronymus Thomas , Zenke Martin
Published: September 2010

Dendritic cells (DCs) in lymphoid tissue comprise conventional DCs (cDCs) and plasmacytoid DCs (pDCs) that develop from common DC progenitors (CDPs). CDPs are Flt3+c-kitintM-CSFR+ and reside in bone marrow. In this study, we describe a two-step culture system that recapitulates DC development from c-kithiFlt3−/lo multipotent progenitors (MPPs) into CDPs and further into cDC and pDC subsets. MPPs and CDPs are amplified in vitro with Flt3 ligand, stem cell factor, hyper–IL-6, and insulin-like growth factor-1. The four-factor mixture readily induces self-renewal of MPPs and their progression into CDPs and has no self-renewal activity on CDPs. The amplified CDPs respond to all known DC poietins and generate all lymphoid tissue DCs in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, in vitro CDPs recapitulate the cell surface marker and gene expression profile of in vivo CDPs and possess a DC-primed transcription profile. TGF-β1 impacts on CDPs and directs their differentiation toward cDCs. Genome-wide gene expression profiling of TGF-β1–induced genes identified instructive transcription factors for cDC subset specification, such as IFN regulatory factor-4 and RelB. TGF-β1 also induced the transcription factor inhibitor of differentiation/DNA binding 2 that suppresses pDC development. Thus, TGF-β1 directs CDP differentiation into cDCs by inducing both cDC instructive factors and pDC inhibitory factors.
Efficient Induction of CCR9 on T Cells Requires Coactivation of Retinoic Acid Receptors and Retinoid X Receptors (RXRs): Exaggerated T Cell Homing to the Intestine by RXR Activation with Organotins
Authors: Takeuchi Hajime , Yokota Aya , Ohoka Yoshiharu , Kagechika Hiroyuki , Kato Chieko , Song Si-Young , Iwata Makoto
Published: September 2010

The active vitamin A metabolite retinoic acid (RA) imprints gut-homing specificity on lymphocytes upon activation by inducing the expression of α4β7 integrin and CCR9. RA receptor (RAR) activation is essential for their expression, whereas retinoid X receptor (RXR) activation is not essential for α4β7 expression. However, it remains unclear whether RXR activation affects the RA-dependent CCR9 expression on T cells and their gut homing. The major physiological RA, all-trans-RA, binds to RAR but not to RXR at physiological concentrations. Cell-surface CCR9 expression was often induced on a limited population of murine naive CD4+ T cells by all-trans-RA or the RAR agonist Am80 alone upon CD3/CD28-mediated activation in vitro, but it was markedly enhanced by adding the RXR agonist PA024 or the RXR-binding environmental chemicals tributyltin and triphenyltin. Accordingly, CD4+ T cells treated with the combination of all-trans-RA and tributyltin migrated into the small intestine upon adoptive transfer much more efficiently than did those treated with all-trans-RA alone. Furthermore, naive TCR transgenic CD4+ T cells transferred into wild-type recipients migrated into the small intestinal lamina propria following i.p. injection of Ag, and the migration was enhanced by i.p. injection of PA024. We also show that PA024 markedly enhanced the all-trans-RA–induced CCR9 expression on naturally occurring naive-like regulatory T cells upon activation, resulting in the expression of high levels of α4β7, CCR9, and Foxp3. These results suggest that RXR activation enhances the RAR-dependent expression of CCR9 on T cells and their homing capacity to the small intestine.
Dendritic Cells Recruit T Cell Exosomes via Exosomal LFA-1 Leading to Inhibition of CD8+ CTL Responses through Downregulation of Peptide/MHC Class I and Fas Ligand-Mediated Cytotoxicity
Authors: Xie Yufeng , Zhang Haifeng , Li Wei , Deng Yulin , Munegowda Manjunatha Ankathatti , Chibbar Rajni , Qureshi Mabood , Xiang Jim
Published: September 2010

Active T cells release bioactive exosomes (EXOs). However, its potential modulation in immune responses is elusive. In this study, we in vitro generated active OVA-specific CD8+ T cells by cultivation of OVA-pulsed dendritic cells (DCOVA) with naive CD8+ T cells derived from OVA-specific TCR transgenic OTI mice and purified EXOs from CD8+ T cell culture supernatant by differential ultracentrifugation. We then investigated the suppressive effect of T cell EXOs on DCOVA-mediated CD8+ CTL responses and antitumor immunity. We found that DCOVA uptake OTI T cell EXOs expressing OVA-specific TCRs and Fas ligand via peptide/MHC Ag I–TCR and CD54–LFA-1 interactions leading to downregulation of peptide/MHC Ag I expression and induction of apoptosis of DCOVA via Fas/Fas ligand pathway. We demonstrated that OVA-specific OTI T cell EXOs, but not lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus-specific TCR transgenic mouse CD8+ T cell EXOs, can inhibit DCOVA-stimulated CD8+ CTL responses and antitumor immunity against OVA-expressing B16 melanoma. In addition, these T cell EXOs can also inhibit DCOVA-mediated CD8+ CTL-induced diabetes in transgenic rat insulin promoter-mOVA mice. Interestingly, the anti–LFA-1 Ab treatment significantly reduces T cell EXO-induced inhibition of CD8+ CTL responses in both antitumor immunity and autoimmunity. EXOs released from T cell hybridoma RF3370 cells expressing OTI CD8+ TCRs have a similar inhibitory effect as T cell EXOs in DCOVA-stimulated CTL responses and antitumor immunity. Therefore, our data indicate that Ag-specific CD8+ T cells can modulate immune responses via T cell-released EXOs, and T cell EXOs may be useful for treatment of autoimmune diseases.
Reduced Immunoproteasome Formation and Accumulation of Immunoproteasomal Precursors in the Brains of Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus-Infected Mice
Authors: Kremer Marcel , Henn Anja , Kolb Cornelia , Basler Michael , Moebius Jacqueline , Guillaume Benoît , Leist Marcel , Van den Eynde Benoît J. , Groettrup Marcus
Published: September 2010

Tissue inflammation is accompanied by the cytokine-mediated replacement of constitutive proteasomes by immunoproteasomes that finally leads to an optimized generation of MHC class I restricted epitopes for Ag presentation. The brain is considered an immunoprivileged organ, where both the special anatomy as well as active tolerance mechanisms repress the development of inflammatory responses and help to prevent immunopathological damage. We analyzed the immunoproteasome expression in the brain after an infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) and could show that LCMV-infection of mice leads to the transcriptional induction of inducible proteasome subunits in the brain. However, compared with other organs, i.p. and even intracranial infection with LCMV only led to a faint expression of mature immunoproteasome in the brain and resulted in the accumulation of immunoproteasomal precursors. By immunohistology, we could identify microglia-like cells as the main producers of immunoproteasome, whereas in astrocytes immunoproteasome expression was almost exclusively restricted to nuclei. Neither the immunoproteasome subunits low molecular mass polypeptide 2 nor multicatalytic endopeptidase complex-like–1 were detected in neurons or oligodendrocytes. In vitro studies of IFN-γ–stimulated primary astrocytes suggested that the observed accumulation of immunoproteasomal precursor complexes takes place in this cell population. Functionally, the lack of immunoproteasomes protracted and lowered the severity of LCMV-induced meningitis in LMP7−/− mice suggesting a contribution of immunoproteasomes in microglia to exacerbate immunopathological damage. We postulate a posttranslationally regulated mechanism that prevents abundant and inappropriate immunoproteasome assembly in the brain and may contribute to the protection of poorly regenerating cells of the CNS from immunopathological destruction.
In Vivo Molecular Imaging Analysis of a Nasal Vaccine That Induces Protective Immunity against Botulism in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Yuki Yoshikazu , Nochi Tomonori , Harada Norihiro , Katakai Yuko , Shibata Hiroaki , Mejima Mio , Kohda Tomoko , Tokuhara Daisuke , Kurokawa Shiho , Takahashi Yuko , Ono Fumiko , Kozaki Shunji , Terao Keiji , Tsukada Hideo , Kiyono Hiroshi
Published: September 2010

Nasal administration is an effective route for a needle-free vaccine. However, nasally administered Ags have the potential to reach the CNS directly from the nasal cavity, thus raising safety concerns. In this study, we performed real-time quantitative tracking of a nasal vaccine candidate for botulism, which is a nontoxic subunit fragment of Clostridium botulinum type A neurotoxin (BoHc/A) effective in the induction of the toxin-neutralizing immune response, by using 18F-labeled BoHc/A–positron-emission tomography, an in vivo molecular imaging method. This method provides results that are consistent with direct counting of [18F] radioactivity or the traditional [111In]-radiolabel method in dissected tissues of mice and nonhuman primates. We found no deposition of BoHc/A in the cerebrum or olfactory bulb after nasal administration of 18F-labeled BoHc/A in both animals. We also established a real-time quantitative profile of elimination of this nasal vaccine candidate and demonstrated that it induces highly protective immunity against botulism in nonhuman primates. Our findings demonstrate the efficiency and safety of a nasal vaccine candidate against botulism in mice and nonhuman primates using in vivo molecular imaging.
Th Cells Act Via Two Synergistic Pathways To Promote Antiviral CD8+ T Cell Responses
Authors: Wiesel Melanie , Joller Nicole , Ehlert Anna-Katharina , Crouse Josh , Spörri Roman , Bachmann Martin F. , Oxenius Annette
Published: September 2010

The mechanisms of how Th cells promote CD8+ T cell responses during viral infections are largely unknown. In this study, we unraveled the mechanisms of T cell help for CD8+ T cell responses during vaccinia virus infection. Our results demonstrate that Th cells promote vaccinia virus-specific CD8+ T cell responses via two interconnected synergistic pathways: First, CD40L expressed by activated CD4+ T cells instructs dendritic cells to produce bioactive IL-12p70, which is directly sensed by Ag-specific CD8+ T cells, resulting in increased IL-2Rα expression. Second, Th cells provide CD8+ T cells with IL-2, thereby enhancing their survival. Thus, Th cells are at the center of an important communication loop with a central role for IL-2/IL-2R and bioactive IL-12.
Mechanism of Induction of NK Activation by 2B4 (CD244) via Its Cognate Ligand
Authors: Sinha Suwan Kumar , Gao Ning , Guo Yuhong , Yuan Dorothy
Published: September 2010

We have previously shown that coincubation of purified B cells with IL-2–propagated NK cells can result in the induction of IL-13 mRNA and that the induction requires the presence of CD48 on B cells and 2B4 on NK cells. Because both of these molecules are expressed on NK cells, it is surprising that very little IL-13 mRNA can be detected in the absence of B cells. We have now found that incubation of NK cells on plates containing immobilized anti-CD48 Abs results in the clustering of CD48 and colocalization with 2B4 on the same cell. This colocalization, together with the requirement for SAP, the signal transducer for 2B4, is necessary for the induction of IL-13 mRNA expression. Activation of NK cell via CD48 on another cell may require a similar ability to alter the configuration of 2B4 to activate downstream signaling. By the use of double CD2/2B4 knockout mice, we have also shown that the induction of NK cell activation by anti-CD48 or by B cells is not due to the release of inhibitory effects of 2B4.
An Unusual Appearance of Double Right Coronary Artery
Authors: Akcay Ahmet , Koroglu Sedat , Kaya Hakan , Koleoglu Murat , Acar Gurkan
Published: September 2010

Double right coronary artery (RCA) is an extremely rare coronary artery anomaly. We aimed to report an atherosclerotic double RCA which appeared after primary percutaneous intervention performed to treat acute inferior myocardial infarction. This is the first case in the literature, which the coronary arteries that can be accepted as double RCA have been hidden by total atherosclerotic occlusion of the proximal part of the RCA. In this paper, also the definition, correct diagnosis, and appropriate diagnostic methods for double RCA were discussed.
Modulation of the Ribonucleotide Reductase‐Antimetabolite Drug Interaction in Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Zhou Jun , Oliveira Paula , Li Xueli , Chen Zhengming , Bepler Gerold
Published: September 2010

RRM1 is a determinant of gemcitabine efficacy in cancer patients. However, the precision of predicting tumor response based on RRM1 levels is not optimal. We used gene‐specific overexpression and RNA interference to assess RRM1′s impact on different classes of cytotoxic agents, on drug‐drug interactions, and the modulating impact of other molecular and cellular parameters. RRM1 was the dominant determinant of gemcitabine efficacy in various cancer cell lines. RRM1 also impacted the efficacy of other antimetabolite agents. It did not disrupt the interaction of two cytotoxic agents when combined. Cell lines with truncation, deletion, and null status of p53 were resistant to gemcitabine without apparent relationship to RRM1 levels. Pemetrexed and carboplatin sensitivity did not appear to be related to p53 mutation status. The impact of p53 mutations in patients treated with gemcitabine should be studied in prospective clinical trials to develop a model with improved precision of predicting drug efficacy.
Population Ageing in Ghana: Research Gaps and the Way Forward
Authors: Mba Chuks J.
Published: September 2010

This paper attempts to highlight research gaps and what should be done concerning population ageing in the Ghanaian context. The proportion of the elderly increased from 4.9 percent in 1960 to 7.2 percent in 2000, while the number rose from 0.3 million to 1.4 million over the same period (an increase of 367 percent). Projection results indicate that by 2050, the aged population will account for 14.1 percent of the total population. Very little is known about the living arrangements and health profile of Ghana's older population. With increasing urbanization and modernization, it is important to know something about intergenerational transfers from adult children to their elderly parents, and characterize the elderly persons' food security strategies. Training of researchers will be important in terms of strengthening Ghana's capacity to monitor trends, as well as to conduct research and explore new directions in population ageing research.
Sclerostin
Authors: Silverman Stuart L.
Published: September 2010

The striking clinical benefits of intermittent parathyroid hormone in osteoporosis have begun a new era of skeletal anabolic agents. One potential new agent is monoclonal antibody to sclerostin, a potent inhibitor of osteoblastogenesis.
Thromboelastometric Profiles of Horses Affected by Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhages
Authors: Giordano Alessia , Meazza Cecilia , Salvadori Marco , Paltrinieri Saverio
Published: September 2010

Exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) commonly occurs in race horses. Thromboelastometry (TEM) investigates the whole hemostatic process by evaluating the viscoelastic properties of the blood clot from its formation to fibrinolysis. The aim of this study was to assess whether horses with EIPH have abnormal thromboelastometric profiles. Intrinsic and extrinsic pathways, fibrinogen activity and fibrinolysis were investigated by TEM before and after the race in negative controls and in horses on which EIPH was confirmed by bronchoscopy. Compared with controls, horses with EIPH had an increased coagulability in both pre- and postrace samplings, especially for the intrinsic pathway and for the fibinrolytic activity. These results suggest that coagulation is preactivated in horses prone to develop EIPH, possibly due to recent or recurrent hemorrhage.
Fertility Rates of Ewes Treated with Medroxyprogesterone and Injected with Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin plus Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Anoestrous Season
Authors: Santos I. W. , Binsfeld L. C. , Weiss R. R. , Kozicki L. E.
Published: September 2010

The aim of the present paper was to investigate the efficiency of the equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG) plus human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) associated with medroxyprogesterone acetate (MAP) to estrous ewes synchronization. Ninety Texel ewes were investigated during seasonal anoestrous. The ewes received intravaginal sponges containing MAP (60 mg) for nine days. At the time of sponges' withdrawal, the ewes were divided into three groups (G): (1) receiving 2 mL of saline i.m. (n=30), (2) receiving eCG 400 IU i.m. (n=30), and (3) receiving eCG 400 IU plus hCG 200 IU i.m. (n=30). Twelve h after sponges' removal, teaser rams were used to estrus check and remained with the ewes for 96 h. The artificial insemination was made with fresh semen 10 h after estrus detection. The effect of the treatment was not significant for the estrous rates among the groups: 73%, 90%, and 86%, respectively. The main effect was observed in the pregnancy and lambing rates among the groups: 70%, 86%, 56%, and 80%, 120%, 56%, respectively. Based on these results from our study, the use of the MAP—eCG is the best choice to improve the fertility rate on ewes.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Dialysis Patients: A Cross-Sectional Italian Study
Authors: Fabbian Fabio , Cantelli Stefano , Molino Christian , Pala Marco , Longhini Carlo , Portaluppi Francesco
Published: September 2010

Introduction. Pulmonary hypertension (PHT) is an independent predictor of mortality. The aim of this study was to relate pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) to the cardiovascular status of dialysis patients.Methods. 27 peritoneal dialysis (PD) and 29 haemodialysis (HD) patients ( years, 37 males, dialysis vintage was months) had PAP measured by echocardiography. Clinical and laboratory data of the patients were recorded.Results. PHT ( mmHg) was detected in 22 patients (39%; PAP  mmHg) and was diagnosed in 18.5% of PD patients and 58.6% of HD patients (). The group of subjects with PH had higher dialysis vintage ( versus months, ), interdialytic weight gain ( versus  Kg, ), lower diastolic blood pressure ( versus  mmHg, ) and ejection fraction ( versus %, ) than the patients with normal PAP. PAP was correlated positively with diastolic left ventricular volume (, ) and negatively with ejection fraction (, ). PHT was independently associated with dialysis vintage (OR 1.022, 95% CI 1.002–1.041, ) and diastolic blood pressure (OR 0.861, 95% CI 0.766–0.967, ).Conclusions. PHT is frequent in dialysis patients, it appears to be a late complication of HD treatment, mainly related to cardiac performance and cardiovascular disease history.
Somatic Embryogenesis in Four Tree Legumes
Authors: Das Premananda
Published: September 2010

Somatic embryogenesis was achieved in four leguminous tree species, that is, Acacia catechu, Acacia arabica, Hardwickia binata, and Dalbergia sissoo using immature zygotic embryos as explants on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 0.25–1.0 mg/l Kn (kinetin) and 2.0–3.0 mg/l 2,4-D (2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) or NAA (1-napthaleneacetic acid) and 3% sucrose. MS medium containing 2.0 mg/l 2,4-D and 1.0–1.5 mg/l Kn was noted to be most effective in inducing friable embryogenic callus (FEC); the number of somatic embryos per culture varied in MS medium supplemented with 1.0–2.0 mg/l 2,4-D or NAA and 0.25–1.5 mg/l kinetin. The maximum number of somatic embryos was obtained in MS medium containing 1.5–2.0 mg/l 2,4-D or NAA and 1.0–1.5 mg/l kinetin; proliferation of embryogenic calli was enhanced in cultures having 1.0–2.0 mg/l 2,4-D, 1.0–1.5 mg/l kinetin, and 400–600 mg/l L-Proline. The somatic embryos in various shapes and sizes after the first subculture on MS medium supplemented with 0.1 mg/l IAA and 0.25 mg/l BA; developed shoots and rooted in strength MS medium supplemented with 0.1 mg/l IBA or IAA. The somatic embryo-derived plantlets were transferred to the field after being hardened in the climate-controlled hardening chamber.
South African banks and their online privacy policy statements: A content analysis
Authors: Kabanda Salah K. , Brown Irwin , Nyamakura V. , Keshav J.
Published: September 2010

In Internet banking and Internet-related transactions, security and privacy are of great concern. To alleviate these concerns, the South African government has promulgated the Electronic Communications and Transactions (ECT) Act No. 25 of 2002. The Act regulates all electronic communication transactions in South Africa. Business organisations implement the Act by, for example, posting a privacy policy statement on their websites, which, in accordance with the requirements of the ECT Act, states how the organisation will use any personal identifiable information provided by the client. This study investigates whether South African banks that subscribe to the ECT Act comply with the principles relating to the protection of a consumer’s personal information. The study employed the research methods of content analysis and interviews. The findings indicate that some banks only complied with a few of the ECT Act principles, which, according to the interview respondents, undermines the levels of trust which are in play between their banks and themselves. The respondents themselves were not fully aware of all the ECT Act requirements. This lack of awareness results in consumers failing to assess the comprehensiveness of their bank’s policy statements and to what extent such banks comply with the ECT Act.
Holomorphie des opérateurs d’entrelacement normalisés à l’aide
des paramètres d’Arthur
Authors: Mœglin C.
Published: September 2010

In this paper we prove holomorphy for certain intertwining operators arising
from the theory of Eisenstein series. To do that we need to normalize using
the Langlands–Shahidi's normalization arising from the twisted endoscopy and
the associated representations of the general linear group.
Transport and consumption of oxygen and methane in different habitats of the Håkon Mosby Mud Volcano (HMMV)
Authors: Felden J. , Wenzhöfer F. , Feseker T. , Boetius A.
Published: September 2010

The Håring;kon Mosby Mud Volcano is a highly active methane seep hosting different chemosynthetic communities such as thiotrophic bacterial mats and siboglinid tubeworm assemblages. This study focuses on in situ measurements of methane fluxes to and from these different habitats, in comparison to benthic methane and oxygen consumption rates. By quantifying in situ oxygen, methane, and sulfide fluxes in different habitats, a spatial budget covering areas of 10–1000‐m diameter was established. The range of dissolved methane efflux (770– 2 mmol m−2 d−1) from the center to the outer rim was associated with a decrease in temperature gradients from 46°C m−1 to < 1°C m−1, indicating that spatial variations in fluid flow control the distribution of benthic habitats and activities. Accordingly, total oxygen uptake (TOU) varied between the different habitats by one order of magnitude from 15 m−2 d−1 to 161 m−2 d−1. High fluid flow rates appeared to suppress benthic activities by limiting the availability of electron acceptors. Accordingly, the highest TOU was associated with the lowest fluid flow and methane efflux. This was most likely due to the aerobic oxidation of methane, which may be more relevant as a sink for methane as previously considered in submarine ecosystems.
Episodes of low dissolved oxygen indicated by ostracodes and sediment geochemistry at Crystal Lake, Illinois, USA
Authors: Curry B. Brandon , Filippelli Gabriel M.
Published: September 2010

Low dissolved oxygen during the summer and early fall controls profundal continental ostracode distribution in Crystal Lake (McHenry County), Illinois, favoring Cypria ophthalmica and Physocypria globula at water depths from 6 to 13 m. These species also thrived in the lake's profundal zone from 14,165 to 9600 calendar year before present (cal yr B.P.) during the late Bølling, Allerød, and Younger Dryas chronozones, and early Holocene. Characterized by sand, cemented tubules, large aquatic gastropod shells, and littoral ostracode valves, thin (1– 6 cm) tempestite deposits punctuate thicker deposits of organic gyttja from 16,080 to 11,900 cal yr B.P. The succeeding 2300 yr (11,900–9600 cal yr B.P.) lack tempestites, and reconstructed water depths were at their maximum. Deposition of marl under relatively well‐oxygenated conditions occurred during the remainder of the Holocene until the arrival of Europeans, when the lake returned to a pattern of seasonally low dissolved oxygen. Such conditions are also indicated in the lake sediment by the speciation of phosphorus, high concentrations of organic carbon, and abundant iron and manganese occluded to mineral grains. Initial low dissolved oxygen was probably caused by the delivery of dissolved P and Fe in shallow groundwater, the chemistry of which was influenced by Spodosol pedogenesis under a spruce forest. The triggering may have been regionally warm and wet conditions associated with retreat of the Lake Michigan lobe (south‐central Laurentide Ice Sheet).
Carbonate mineral saturation states along the U.S. East Coast
Authors: Jiang Li-Qing , Cai Wei-Jun , Feely Richard A. , Wang Yongchen , Guo Xianghui , Gledhill Dwight K. , Hu Xinping , Arzayus Felipe , Chen Feizhou , Hartmann Justin , Zhang Longjun
Published: September 2010

To assess the impact of ocean acidification on the carbonate chemistry of the shelf waters off the southeastern United States (South Atlantic Bight [SAB]), we measured carbonate mineral saturation states from January 2005 to May 2006. The findings reveal that aragonite (Ωarag: 2.6–4.0) and calcite (Ωcal: 4.1–6.0) saturation states were considerably higher than those recently reported along the West Coast of North America. Different water mass age between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans during global ocean circulation is the primary reason for the higher carbonate mineral saturation states in the SAB than along the West Coast. The contrasting water temperatures in the two coasts contribute to such differences. Both upwelling and freshwater discharge also play important roles in controlling saturation state. Carbonate mineral saturation in the surface water of the West Coast is strongly controlled by the upwelling of high‐salinity, low‐temperature, low‐oxygen, and low‐pH deep water. In comparison, saturation states in the surface water of the SAB coast are rarely affected by upwelling. Instead, they are strongly influenced by the input of low‐saturation‐state water from rivers. Continued increases of atmospheric CO2 under the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change B1 emission scenario will decrease the carbonate mineral saturation states by up to 40% by the end of this century, and aragonite will approach undersaturation near the coast.
Use of Occupations and Activities in a Modified Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy Program: A Musician’s Triumphs Over Chronic Hemiparesis From Stroke
Authors: Earley Donald , Herlache Ellen , Skelton Dana R.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE. This case report addresses the use of therapeutic occupations and activities within a modified constraint-induced movement therapy (mCIMT) approach for a 52-yr-old female violinist 4 yr after ischemic stroke.

METHOD. Analysis of occupational performance was completed before and after intervention using a modified version of the Fugl-Meyer Sensorimotor Evaluation, the Motor Functioning Assessment, the Arm Improvement and Movement Checklist, and information obtained from a client journal maintained throughout treatment. The mCIMT protocol included use of constraint of the affected arm, with emphasis placed on participation in meaningful occupations and activities.

RESULTS. Improved function in the affected extremity was noted at the conclusion of mCIMT. After completion of therapy, the client reported a return to playing violin.

DISCUSSION. The findings from this case report suggest that use of meaningful occupations and activities integrated into a mCIMT protocol may be effective in addressing skills deficits for clients with upper-extremity chronic hemiparesis.
Effects of a Kinesthetic Cursive Handwriting Intervention for Grade 4–6 Students
Authors: Roberts Gwenyth I. , Siever Jodi E. , Mair Judith A.
Published: September 2010

OBJECTIVE. We studied whether Grade 4–6 students who participated in a kinesthetic writing intervention improved in legibility, speed, and personal satisfaction with cursive handwriting.

METHOD. Small groups of students with handwriting difficulties were seen weekly for 7 wk using a kinesthetic writing system. A repeated measures design was used to evaluate change in global legibility, individual letter formation, specific features of handwriting, and personal satisfaction.

RESULTS. Analysis revealed (1) a significant increase in ratings of global legibility (p < .01; clinically significant improvements in 39% of students); (2) significant improvements in letter formation and legibility features of baseline, closure, and line quality (all p < .05); (3) increased handwriting speed (p < .05; not clinically significant); and (4) significant increase in measures with personal satisfaction of handwriting (p < .01).

CONCLUSION. A kinesthetic handwriting intervention may be effective in improving the skills of students with handwriting challenges.