bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Themes of Land and Fertility in the Book of Ruth
Authors: Sutskover Talia
Published: March 2010

A variety of words from the lexical fields of Land and Fertility occurs frequently at strategic points throughout the book of Ruth, often accompanied by special semantic and sound phenomena. This article focuses on the systematic accumulation of the lexical/ semantic patterns that bring Land and Fertility together as related theme markers. It is proposed that the theme underlined by elements of the lexical fields of Land and Fertility creates for Ruth, ancestress of King David, a set of new associations relating to the land of Beit-leḥem and giving birth to Obed (‭דבוע‬, connoting ‘tiller of the land’). These were intended to replace the negative associations attributed to Moabite aliens.
Quantifying the return of headache in triptan-treated migraineurs: An observational study
Authors: Sheftell Fred , Almas Mary , Weeks Randall , Mathew Ninan T , Pitman Verne , Lipton Richard B
Published: March 2010

To improve understanding of secondary treatment failure in migraine patients, we evaluated ‘headache return’ as a novel endpoint to assess returning headaches according to their severity, expanding on current standard assessments of overall recurrence or relapse rates, in a six-month observational study of triptan-treated migraineurs. A total of 359 patients (91% female; mean age, 42.5 years) recorded data for 2168 headaches in electronic diaries. Two-thirds of headaches responded to triptan treatment (improved-to-mild or no pain two hours post-dose); 34% of headaches had a pain-free response. By 48 hours post-dose, 19% of all responding headaches returned; 24% of headaches achieving a pain-free response returned, predominantly to mild pain. More severe baseline headache, short duration since diagnosis of migraine, and female gender were associated with increased likelihood of headache return. Treatment satisfaction declined with increasing severity of headache return, demonstrating the value of assessing headache return by severity to fully evaluate its impact.
SUNCT syndrome with paroxysmal mydriasis: Clinical and pupillometric findings
Authors: Antonaci F , Sances G , Loi M , Sandrini G , Dumitrache C , Cuzzoni MG
Published: March 2010

SUNCT syndrome (short-lasting unilateral neuralgiform headache attacks with conjunctival injection and tearing) is a primary headache characterised by a high frequency of attacks associated with marked autonomic periocular signs and symptoms. Activation of the hypothalamus via the superior salivary nucleus is probably responsible for some of the autonomic involvement observed during SUNCT attacks. We describe a case of SUNCT with unusual autonomic features (e.g., mydriasis) and early onset. Pupillometric studies were performed both in a basal condition (without anisocoria) and after instillation of phenylephrine (a drug with direct sympathomimetic activity) and pilocarpine (a parasympathetic agonist).

The findings in this patient seem to indicate involvement of the ocular sympathetic supply in SUNCT, responsible for the mydriasis, and seem to strengthen the possibility that the autonomic phenomena in this syndrome vary with different levels of pain severity.
Intranasal sumatriptan powder delivered by a novel breath-actuated bi-directional device for the acute treatment of migraine: A randomised, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Djupesland PG , Dočekal P ,   the Czech Migraine Investigators Group
Published: March 2010

Introduction: Intranasal sumatriptan is an option for the treatment of migraine; however, nasal delivery using conventional spray pumps is suboptimal.

Methods: Adult subjects ( n = 117) with migraine were enrolled in a multicentre, randomised, double-blind, parallel group, placebo-controlled study. A single migraine attack was treated in-clinic with sumatriptan 10 mg, sumatriptan 20 mg or placebo administered intranasally by a novel bi-directional powder delivery device when migraine was moderate or severe.

Results: A greater proportion of subjects who received sumatriptan were pain-free at 120 minutes compared with those who received placebo (10 mg/20 mg sumatriptan vs. placebo = 54%/57% vs. 25%, P < .05). Significant benefits were also observed for pain relief at 120 minutes (84%/80% vs. 44%, P < .001/.01) and as early as 60 minutes (73%/74% vs. 38%, P < .01) and for 48 hours sustained pain-free ( P < .05). Treatment-related adverse events were rare, with a metallic taste being the most commonly reported (10%/13%).

Conclusions: Sumatriptan nasal powder administered using the new device during a migraine attack was effective and well tolerated.
OnabotulinumtoxinA for treatment of chronic migraine: Results from the double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase of the PREEMPT 2 trial
Authors: Diener HC , Dodick DW , Aurora SK , Turkel CC , DeGryse RE , Lipton RB , Silberstein SD , Brin MF
Published: March 2010

Objectives: This is the second of a pair of studies designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of onabotulinumtoxinA (BOTOX®) for prophylaxis of headaches in adults with chronic migraine.

Methods: PREEMPT 2 was a phase 3 study, with a 24-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase, followed by a 32-week, open-label phase. Subjects were randomized (1:1) to injections of onabotulinumtoxinA (155U–195U; n = 347) or placebo ( n = 358) every 12 weeks for two cycles. The primary efficacy endpoint was mean change in headache days per 28 days from baseline to weeks 21–24 post-treatment.

Results: OnabotulinumtoxinA was statistically significantly superior to placebo for the primary endpoint, frequency of headache days per 28 days relative to baseline (−9.0 onabotulinumtoxinA/−6.7 placebo, p < .001). OnabotulinumtoxinA was significantly favoured in all secondary endpoint comparisons. OnabotulinumtoxinA was safe and well tolerated, with few treatment-related adverse events. Few patients (3.5% onabotulinumtoxinA/1.4% placebo) discontinued due to adverse events.

Conclusions: The results of PREEMPT 2 demonstrate that onabotulinumtoxinA is effective for prophylaxis of headache in adults with chronic migraine. Repeated onabotulinumtoxinA treatments were safe and well tolerated.
Firearm Homicide in Australia, Canada, and New Zealand: What Can We Learn From Long-Term International Comparisons?
Authors: McPhedran Samara , Baker Jeanine , Singh Pooja
Published: March 2010

Although firearm homicide remains a topic of interest within criminological and policy discourse, existing research does not generally undertake longitudinal comparisons between countries. However, cross-country comparisons provide insight into whether “local” trends (e.g., declines in firearm homicide in one particular country) differ from broader, international trends. This in turn can improve knowledge about the role of factors such as policing practices and socioeconomic variables in the incidence of lethal violence using firearms. The current study compares long-term firearm homicide trends in three countries with similar social histories but different legislative regimes: Australia, Canada, and New Zealand. Using negative binomial regression, the study found that the most pronounced decline in firearm homicide over the past two decades occurred in New Zealand. Connections between social disadvantage, policing policy, and violence are discussed.
Nonconsensual Sexual Experiences and Alcohol Consumption Among Women Entering College
Authors: Thomson Ross Lisa , Kurth Kolars Candace L. , Krahn Dean D. , Lisansky Gomberg Edith S. , Clark Ginna , Niehaus Ashley
Published: March 2010

The authors investigated the relationship between precollege nonconsensual sexual experiences (NSEs) and drinking among women entering college. College women ( N = 797) at a midwestern university participated. Eighteen percent reported one or more NSE prior to arriving at college. Having a precollege NSE was associated with recent drinking, binge drinking, and negative drinking consequences. The authors discuss implications for intervention and prevention programs targeting college women.
The arterial anatomy of the medial femoral condyle and its clinical implications
Authors: Yamamoto H. , Jones D. B. , Moran S. L. , Bishop A. T. , Shin A. Y.
Published: March 2010

The success of vascularized bone grafts from the medial femoral condyle in various clinical applications has sparked renewed interest in the microvascular anatomy of this region. This study describes the arterial supply of the distal medial femoral condyle and its implications in harvesting vascularized bone grafts. The location, branching pattern, internal diameter, and distribution of perforators of the descending genicular artery and superior medial genicular artery in 19 fresh cadaveric lower limbs were recorded. The descending genicular artery was present in 89% and the superior medial genicular artery was present in 100% of specimens with average distances proximal to the articular surface of 13.7 cm and 5.2 cm, respectively. The average number of perforating vessels was greatest in the posterior distal quadrant of the condyle. The blood supply of the medial femoral condyle is plentiful and consistent making it a useful source for free vascularized bone grafts.
Review: Chemotherapy in newly diagnosed primary central nervous system lymphoma
Authors: Hashemi-Sadraei Nooshin , Peereboom David M.
Published: March 2010

Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) accounts for only 3% of brain tumors. It can involve the brain parenchyma, leptomeninges, eyes and the spinal cord. Unlike systemic lymphoma, durable remissions remain uncommon. Although phase III trials in this rare disease are difficult to perform, many phase II trials have attempted to define standards of care. Treatment modalities for patients with newly diagnosed PCNSL include radiation and/or chemotherapy. While the role of radiation therapy for initial management of PCNSL is controversial, clinical trials will attempt to improve the therapeutic index of this modality. Routes of chemotherapy administration include intravenous, intraocular, intraventricular or intra-arterial. Multiple trials have outlined different methotrexate-based chemotherapy regimens and have used local techniques to improve drug delivery. A major challenge in the management of patients with PCNSL remains the delivery of aggressive treatment with preservation of neurocognitive function. Because PCNSL is rare, it is important to perform multicenter clinical trials and to incorporate detailed measurements of long-term toxicities. In this review we focus on different chemotherapeutic approaches for immunocompetent patients with newly diagnosed PCNSL and discuss the role of local drug delivery in addition to systemic therapy. We also address the neurocognitive toxicity of treatment.
Fast evolving 18S rRNA sequences from Solenogastres (Mollusca) resist standard PCR amplification and give new insights into mollusk substitution rate heterogeneity
Authors: Meyer Achim , Todt Christiane , Mikkelsen Nina T , Lieb Bernhard
Published: March 2010

Background

The 18S rRNA gene is one of the most important molecular markers, used in diverse applications such as molecular phylogenetic analyses and biodiversity screening. The Mollusca is the second largest phylum within the animal kingdom and mollusks show an outstanding high diversity in body plans and ecological adaptations. Although an enormous amount of 18S data is available for higher mollusks, data on some early branching lineages are still limited. Despite of some partial success in obtaining these data from Solenogastres, by some regarded to be the most "basal" mollusks, this taxon still remained problematic due to contamination with food organisms and general amplification difficulties.

Results

We report here the first authentic 18S genes of three Solenogastres species (Mollusca), each possessing a unique sequence composition with regions conspicuously rich in guanine and cytosine. For these GC-rich regions we calculated strong secondary structures. The observed high intra-molecular forces hamper standard amplification and appear to increase formation of chimerical sequences caused by contaminating foreign DNAs from potential prey organisms. In our analyses, contamination was avoided by using RNA as a template. Indication for contamination of previously published Solenogastres sequences is presented. Detailed phylogenetic analyses were conducted using RNA specific models that account for compensatory substitutions in stem regions.

Conclusions

The extreme morphological diversity of mollusks is mirrored in the molecular 18S data and shows elevated substitution rates mainly in three higher taxa: true limpets (Patellogastropoda), Cephalopoda and Solenogastres. Our phylogenetic tree based on 123 species, including representatives of all mollusk classes, shows limited resolution at the class level but illustrates the pitfalls of artificial groupings formed due to shared biased sequence composition.
Anti-infective activity of apolipoprotein domain derived peptides in vitro: identification of novel antimicrobial peptides related to apolipoprotein B with anti-HIV activity
Authors: Kelly Bridie A , Harrison Ian , McKnight Áine , Dobson Curtis B
Published: March 2010

Background

Previous reports have shown that peptides derived from the apolipoprotein E receptor binding region and the amphipathic α-helical domains of apolipoprotein AI have broad anti-infective activity and antiviral activity respectively. Lipoproteins and viruses share a similar cell biological niche, being of overlapping size and displaying similar interactions with mammalian cells and receptors, which may have led to other antiviral sequences arising within apolipoproteins, in addition to those previously reported. We therefore designed a series of peptides based around either apolipoprotein receptor binding regions, or amphipathic α-helical domains, and tested these for antiviral and antibacterial activity.

Results

Of the nineteen new peptides tested, seven showed some anti-infective activity, with two of these being derived from two apolipoproteins not previously used to derive anti-infective sequences. Apolipoprotein J (151-170) - based on a predicted amphipathic alpha-helical domain from apolipoprotein J - had measurable anti-HSV1 activity, as did apolipoprotein B (3359-3367) dp (apoBdp), the latter being derived from the LDL receptor binding domain B of apolipoprotein B. The more active peptide - apoBdp - showed similarity to the previously reported apoE derived anti-infective peptide, and further modification of the apoBdp sequence to align the charge distribution more closely to that of apoEdp or to introduce aromatic residues resulted in increased breadth and potency of activity. The most active peptide of this type showed similar potent anti-HIV activity, comparable to that we previously reported for the apoE derived peptide apoEdpL-W.

Conclusions

These data suggest that further antimicrobial peptides may be obtained using human apolipoprotein sequences, selecting regions with either amphipathic α-helical structure, or those linked to receptor-binding regions. The finding that an amphipathic α-helical region of apolipoprotein J has antiviral activity comparable with that for the previously reported apolipoprotein AI derived peptide 18A, suggests that full-length apolipoprotein J may also have such activity, as has been reported for full-length apolipoprotein AI. Although the strength of the anti-infective activity of the sequences identified was limited, this could be increased substantially by developing related mutant peptides. Indeed the apolipoprotein B-derived peptide mutants uncovered by the present study may have utility as HIV therapeutics or microbicides.
Lovastatin induces apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells and synergizes with doxorubicin: potential therapeutic relevance
Authors: Martirosyan Anna , Clendening James W , Goard Carolyn A , Penn Linda Z
Published: March 2010

Background

Ovarian carcinoma is a rarely curable disease, for which new treatment options are required. As agents that block HMG-CoA reductase and the mevalonate pathway, the statin family of drugs are used in the treatment of hypercholesterolemia and have been shown to trigger apoptosis in a tumor-specific manner. Recent clinical trials show that the addition of statins to traditional chemotherapeutic strategies can increase efficacy of targeting statin-sensitive tumors. Our goal was to assess statin-induced apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells, either alone or in combination with chemotherapeutics, and then determine these mechanisms of action.

Methods

The effect of lovastatin on ovarian cancer cell lines was evaluated alone and in combination with cisplatin and doxorubicin using several assays (MTT, TUNEL, fixed PI, PARP cleavage) and synergy determined by evaluating the combination index. The mechanisms of action were evaluated using functional, molecular, and pharmacologic approaches.

Results

We demonstrate that lovastatin induces apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells in a p53-independent manner and synergizes with doxorubicin, a chemotherapeutic agent used to treat recurrent cases of ovarian cancer. Lovastatin drives ovarian tumor cell death by two mechanisms: first, by blocking HMG-CoA reductase activity, and second, by sensitizing multi-drug resistant cells to doxorubicin by a novel mevalonate-independent mechanism. This inhibition of drug transport, likely through inhibition of P-glycoprotein, potentiates both DNA damage and tumor cell apoptosis.

Conclusions

The results of this research provide pre-clinical data to warrant further evaluation of statins as potential anti-cancer agents to treat ovarian carcinoma. Many statins are inexpensive, off-patent generic drugs that are immediately available for use as anti-cancer agents. We provide evidence that lovastatin triggers apoptosis of ovarian cancer cells as a single agent by a mevalonate-dependent mechanism. Moreover, we also show lovastatin synergizes with doxorubicin, an agent administered for recurrent disease. This synergy occurs by a novel mevalonate-independent mechanism that antagonizes drug resistance, likely by inhibiting P-glycoprotein. These data raise important issues that may impact how statins can best be included in chemotherapy regimens.
Slit3 inhibits Robo3-induced invasion of synovial fibroblasts in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Denk Alexandra E , Kaufmann Simone , Stark Klaus , Schedel Jörg , Lowin Torsten , Schubert Thomas , Bosserhoff Anja K
Published: March 2010

Introduction

The repellent factor family of Slit molecules has been described to have repulsive function in the developing nervous system on growing axons expressing the Robo receptors. However, until today no data are available on whether these repellent factors are involved in the regulation of synovial fibroblast (SF) activity in rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

mRNA expression in primary synovial fibroblasts was quantified by quantitative reverse transcription PCR and protein expression was measured by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis. Different functional assays were performed with rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts (RASF): proliferation, migration and a novel in-vitro cartilage destruction assay.

Results

First, we found increased expression of Robo3 expression in RASF compared to normal SF. Interestingly, analysis of data from a recently published genome-wide association study suggests a contribution of ROBO3 gene polymorphisms to susceptibility of RA. Functional assays performed with RASF revealed induction of migration and cartilage destruction by Robo3 and increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)1 and MMP3 expression. Treatment of RASF in early passages with Slit3 led to inhibition of migration whereas RASF in later passages, having reduced Robo3 expression in cell culture, were not inhibited by Slit3 treatment. Here, reduction of Robo3 expression from passage 3 to 10 might reflect an important step in losing repulsive activity of Slit3.

Conclusions

Taken together, our data showed that deregulation of the Robo3 receptor in synovial fibroblasts in RA correlates with aggressiveness of the fibroblasts. Slit3 reduces the migratory activity of synovial cells from patients with RA, potentially by repulsion of the cells in analogy to the neuronal system. Further studies will be necessary to prove Slit activity in vivo.
Enoxaparin, effective dosage for intensive care patients: double-blinded, randomised clinical trial
Authors: Robinson Sian , Zincuk Aleksander , Strøm Thomas , Larsen Torben Bjerregaard , Rasmussen Bjarne , Toft Palle
Published: March 2010

Introduction

Intensive care unit (ICU) patients are predisposed to thromboembolism. Routine prophylactic anticoagulation is widely recommended. Low-molecular-weight heparins, such as enoxaparin, are increasingly used because of predictable pharmacokinetics. This study aims to determine the subcutaneous (SC) dose of enoxaparin that would give the best anti-factor Xa levels in ICU patients.

Methods

The 72 patients admitted to a mixed ICU at Odense University Hospital (OUH) in Denmark were randomised into four groups to receive 40, 50, 60, or 70 mg SC enoxaparin for a period of 24 hours. Anti-factor Xa activity (aFXa) was measured before, and at 4, 12, and 24 hours after administration. An AFXa level between 0.1 to 0.3 IU/ml was considered evidence of effective antithrombotic activity.

Results

Median peak (4 hours after administration), aFXa levels increased significantly with an increase in enoxaparin dose, from 0.13 IU/ml at 40 mg, to 0.14 IU/ml at 50 mg, 0.27 IU/ml at 60 mg, and 0.29 IU/ml at 70 mg (P = 0.002). At 12 hours after administration, median aFXa levels were still within therapeutic range for those patients who received 60 mg (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Our study confirmed that a standard dose of 40 mg enoxaparin yielded subtherapeutic levels of aFXa in critically ill patients. Higher doses resulted in better peak aFXa levels, with a ceiling effect observed at 60 mg. The present study seems to suggest inadequate dosage as one of the possible mechanisms for the higher failure rate of enoxaparin in ICU patients.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN03037804
Control mechanism strategies for spin-stabilized projectiles
Authors: Fresconi F , Plostins P
Published: March 2010

Spin-stabilized artillery munitions were originally designed to provide precise ballistic fire on long-range targets. Today, the challenge is to use these ballistic munitions in urban operations where significantly higher levels of precision are required to minimize collateral damage. One strategy is to retrofit these munitions with some level of low-cost precision. Unique challenges arise when munitions designed to be ballistically precise are guided. Projectile flight is often stabilized by a high spin rate, which induces complex dynamics. Flight mechanics are further aggravated by adding a control mechanism. The goal of this study was to provide a fundamental understanding of various control mechanism strategies for spin-stabilized projectiles. Flight control systems were developed and executed in a six-degree-of-freedom simulation. Formulating a generalized model of a control mechanism allowed us to investigate parameters such as control force magnitude, control axial location, control lift-to-drag ratio, and control force duration for a spin-stabilized projectile. Results show that control authority linearly relates to control force magnitude. Maximal control authority was obtained by placing the control mechanism at the rear of the projectile. The variation with axial location was also determined since these results are valuable, for instance, when the control is unable to be located near the projectile base. A lower lift-to-drag ratio of the control mechanism decreased control authority and maximum range. Lastly, the trade-offs associated with continuous and pulsed flight control systems were quantified. Physical explanations for the simulation results are provided.
Parametric modelling application to a twin rotor system using recursive least squares, genetic, and swarm optimization techniques
Authors: Toha S F , Tokhi M O
Published: March 2010

An essential step towards the solution of many scientific problems is to accomplish modelling and identification of the system under investigation. This paper endeavours to establish an empirical relationship between input and observed output data for the identification of a one-degree-of-freedom hovering motion model of a twin rotor multi-input—multi-output system (TRMS). The TRMS can be perceived as a static test rig for an air vehicle with formidable control challenges. Therefore, modelling of aerodynamic function of the system is needed and carried out in both time and frequency domains based on observed input and output data pairs. Improved algorithms of recursive least square, genetic algorithm, and particle swarm optimization are proposed to develop a parametric model to mimic the behaviour of the twin rotor system in hovering mode. A complete system identification procedure is carried out, from experimental design to model validation using a laboratory-scale helicopter. In this case, the identified model is characterized by a fourth-order linear auto-regressive moving average structure, which describes with very high precision the hovering motion of a TRMS. Experimental results are obtained using a laboratory set-up system, confirming the viability and effectiveness of the proposed methodology.
Compatibility and Proprietary Standards: The Impact of Conversion Technologies in IT Markets with Network Effects
Authors: Liu Charles Zhechao , Gal-Or Esther , Kemerer Chris F. , Smith Michael D.
Published: March 2010

In markets that exhibit network effects, the presence of digital conversion technologies provides an alternative mechanism to achieve compatibility. This study examines the impact of conversion technologies on market equilibrium in the context of sequential duopoly competition and proprietary technology standards.

We analyze this question by departing from the extant literature to endogenize the decision to provide a converter and incorporate explicit negotiations between firms concerning the extent of conversion. We argue that these choices better reflect the environment facing firms in digital goods industries and find that these decisions change some of the established results in the literature.

Specifically, we find that unless network effects are very large, the subgame-perfect equilibrium (SPNE) involves firms' agreeing to provide digital converters at a sufficiently low price to all consumers. At this equilibrium, both the entrant and the incumbent are better off because the provision of converters alleviates price competition in the market and leads to both higher product revenues and higher proceeds from the sale of converters. Moreover, under some circumstances, the provision of converters is welfare enhancing.

These findings have important implications for research and practice in the adoption of new digital goods as the introduction of conversion technologies can reduce the social costs of standardization without compromising the benefits of network effects.
Determination of Exchangeable Calcium of Calcareous and Gypsiferous Bentonites
Authors: Dohrmann Reiner , Kaufhold Stephan
Published: March 2010

The aim of the present study was to find methodological tools to obtain reasonable results for exchangable Ca2+ of gypsiferous bentonites. Cation exchange capacity (CEC) is an important property of clays. Numerous methods for calculating CEC and exchangeable cations exist; determination of exchangeable Ca2+ fails, however, when gypsiferous clays are examined because gypsum is dissolved throughout the exchange experiment, which in turn increases measureable Ca2+ concentrations. Several new methods (AgTUcalcite, CoHexcalcite, and Cu-trien5×calcite) have been developed to overcome a similar problem occurring with calcite by using exchange solutions saturated with respect to calcite prior to the experiment. In the present study these three solutions were also pre-treated with gypsum and labeled AgTUCcGp, CoHexCcGp, and Cu-trien5×CcGp. The special solutions were applied first to a gypsum- and calcite-free bentonite with known reference values for exchangeable Ca2+. The resulting exchangeable Ca2+ values obtained did not match with reference values. The solutions were then applied to natural calcareous and gypsiferous bentonites but only the proposed AgTUCcGp test method was successful. The performance of AgTUCcGp was relatively poor when applied to calcareous non-gypsiferous bentonites, the third group of test materials. Reasonable values for exchangeable Ca2+ of gypsiferous clays were obtained using a combination of two separate results: (1) calcite saturation of exchange solution (e.g. Cu-trien5×calcite) and (2) quantification of gypsum with suitable mineralogical methods. Result 1 eliminates errors caused by calcite dissolution though it is still incorrect because it contains significant amounts of Ca2+ from gypsum dissolution. After proving that gypsum was completely dissolved during the exchange experiment, result 2 was used to subtract the theoretical Ca2+ portion of gypsum from result 1. The initial concentration of gypsum of the samples studied was <1 wt.%, typical of many commercial bentonites. Using this combined procedure the sum of exchangeable cations is very close to the CEC, though it still exceeds the CEC by, on average, 3%, which is a satisfactory improvement. The resulting exchangeable Ca2+ values can be considered as operationally correct using this approach. Ca2+ saturation (Ca/CEC in %) of seven gypsiferous bentonites ranges from 1 to 69%.
My School Rocks! Dancing Disney's High School Musical in India
Authors: Rudisill Kristen
Published: March 2010

High School Musical, the 2006 Disney Channel original movie, was a surprise hit in the United States, but its Bollywood-style format and sanitized depiction of American high school life contributed to its popularity in India as well. The Disney Channel, which entered the growing
Indian market for children's television in 2004, has been a leader in developing strategies for localization. Many standard strategies are visible in the marketing of High School Musical, including dubbing content into local languages, creating content locally or drawing on local themes,
and running local promotions and competitions. The My School Rocks dance competition, run in conjunction with the release of High School Musical, added creative and performance components to the equation that encouraged Indian kids to actively alter and interpret the film's musical
numbers, thus making them relevant to their particular cultural experiences. Additionally, My School Rocks took advantage of the film's musical format to exploit similarities with the popular existing Bollywood industry, by both imitating popular performance practices inspired by Bollywood
song-and-dance sequences and enlisting well-known Bollywood choreographers to serve as judges. The promotion involved schools, through the existing structure of interschool dance competitions, and local communities, through the voting that took place on the Disney India website. Through this
Asia-specific competition, Disney encouraged children to take ownership of the film's content by creating and performing original dances to the songs, thus developing hybrid and bilingual choreographies that function as signifiers of class-based urban Indian cosmopolitanism.
Introduction to Bruce Kirle Memorial Panel debut papers in music-theatre-dance
Authors: Wolf Stacy
Published: March 2010

In 2007, the distinguished scholar of musical theatre, Bruce Kirle, passed away unexpectedly. In tribute to his contribution to this field of scholarship, the Music-Theatre-Dance focus group of the Association for Theatre in Higher Education (ATHE) established a competition for new
scholars researching in the field. The three prize-winning entries to the inaugural season of this competition were presented as conference papers at the 2009 ATHE conference in New York, and appear as written articles on the following pages of Studies in Musical Theatre. Stacy Wolf,
chair of that inaugural ATHE panel, and respondent to the papers, introduces the papers in this short address.
A substitute for love: the performance of sex in Spring Awakening
Authors: Vandevender Bryan M
Published: March 2010

In Words and Music, Lehman Engel cites romance as a primary need of the musical, claiming that the genre requires romantic love as a narrative modus operandi. By his charge, love and romance drive plot and give characters a reason to sing. Sex, on the other hand, curtails
what romance encourages and is therefore less requisite. Despite Engel's misgivings, several notable musicals have used song and dance to discuss or depict sex acts between adults. Representations of teenage sexuality, however, have been more infrequent and significantly more veiled. Steven
Sater and Duncan Sheik's Spring Awakening is the first musical to offer direct representations of adolescent sexuality. This study examines the ways in which Spring Awakening uses both song and dance to represent and deploy teenage sexuality. Through its unique aural and visual
vocabulary, Spring Awakening allows its adolescent characters to sing and dance their sexual desire, and in effect perform sex.
The out-of-town tryout goes back to school
Authors: Moore Tracey
Published: March 2010

This article proposes that the high costs of out-of-town tryouts and the proliferation of Internet gossip and critique have created a need for a new approach to musical theatre development. A brief history of out-of-town tryouts is followed by an in-depth look at how unpublished musicals
are currently being developed in writing workshops and at universities. The author makes the case that the university setting provides a low-cost, low-publicity environment for musical theatre writers to develop new works, and that there are innumerable benefits to the schools and the students
who participate in these events.
Reviews
Authors: Macpherson Ben , Purin Peter , Symonds Dominic , Coslett Martin
Published: March 2010

Strike Up The Band: A New History of Musical Theatre, Scott Miller, (2007) Portsmouth, New Hampshire: Heinemann Drama, vii + 264 pp., ISBN-13 9780325006420 (pbk), US$23.95

The Sound of Broadway Music: A Book of Orchestrators and Orchestrations, Steven
Suskin, (2009) Oxford and New York: Oxford University Press, 664 pp., ISBN 9780195309478 (hbk), 31.99

The Complete Lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II, Amy Asch (ed.), (2008) New York: Alfred A. Knopf, xxiv + 422 pp., ISBN-13 9780375413582 (hbk), US$65.00

Sonic
Mediations: Body Sound Technology, Carolyn Birdsall and Anthony Enns (eds), (2008) Newcastle upon Tyne: Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 275 pp., ISBN-10 1847188397; ISBN-13 9781847188397 (hbk), 39.99 or $59.99
Champia puertoricensis sp. nov. (Rhodophyta: Champiaceae) from Puerto Rico, Caribbean Sea
Authors: Lozada-Troche Chad , Ballantine David L.
Published: March 2010

Morphological examination of sympatrically growing specimens referable to Champia parvula collected as seagrass epiphytes has resulted in the recognition of a new Champia species. The new species bears resemblance to type specimens of C. parvula, differing mainly in branching pattern (opposite vs. typically alternate) and branch origin (between the septa vs. nodal region), number of axes arising from holdfasts (4–7 vs. 1 or more), and monoecious vs. dioecious gametophytes. On the basis of analyses of small ribosomal subunit and rubisco large subunit (rbcL) gene sequences, the new species was distinct from its sympatric partner. The new species clades most closely with C. vieillardii, C. compressa, and what is tentatively referred to as C. parvula from Puerto Rico. Furthermore, rbcL sequence comparison between C. vieillardii and C. compressa supports their recognition as distinct species.
Informed Consent in Human Subject Research: A Comparison of Current International and Nigerian Guidelines
Authors: Fadare Joseph O. , Porteri Corinna
Published: March 2010

Informed consent is a basic requirement for the conduct of ethical research involving human subjects. Currently, the Helsinki Declaration of the World Medical Association and the International Ethical Guidelines for Biomedical Research of the Council for International Organizations of Medical Sciences (CIOMS) are widely accepted as international codes regulating human subject research and the informed consent sections of these documents are quite important. Debates on the applicability of these guidelines in different socio-cultural settings are ongoing and many workers have advocated the need for national or regional guidelines. Nigeria, a developing country, has recently adopted its national guideline regulating human subject research: The National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC) code. A content analysis of the three guidelines was done to see if the Nigerian guidelines confer any additional protection for research subjects. The concept of a Community Advisory Committee in the Nigerian guideline is a novel one that emphasizes research as a community burden and should promote a form of “research friendship” to foster the welfare of research participants. There is also the need for a regular update of the NHREC code so as to address some issues that were not considered in its current version.
Attitudes toward Genetic Research Review: Results from a National Survey of Professionals Involved in Human Subjects Protection
Authors: Lemke Amy A. , Trinidad Susan B. , Edwards Karen L. , Starks Helene , Wiesner Georgia L. ,   Consortium and the GRRIP
Published: March 2010

The recent expansion of human genetics research has raised complex ethical and regulatory issues. However, few published reports describe the views of professionals involved in human subjects protection (HSP) regarding the risks and benefits of genetic research. This anonymous, web-based study elicited the opinions of 208 HSP professionals about review of genetic research. The majority of respondents felt that different guidance is needed for various aspects of genetic protocol review compared with other types of human subjects research. Importantly, opinions were divided on specific genetic research issues, such as what constitutes human subjects research, when to re-consent, and the likelihood and risks of research participant identification. Findings from this study illustrate the need for a collaborative approach to ethics oversight in the review and conduct of genetic research.
Resistance to leptin-replacement therapy in Berardinelli–Seip congenital lipodystrophy: an immunological origin
Authors: Beltrand Jacques , Lahlou Najiba , Le Charpentier Tifenn , Sebag Guy , Leka Sofia , Polak Michel , Tubiana-Rufi Nadia , Lacombe Didier , de Kerdanet Marc , Huet Frederic , Robert Jean-Jacques , Chevenne Didier , Gressens Pierre , Lévy-Marchal Claire
Published: March 2010

Context

Recently, in a 4-month proof-of-concept trial, beneficial metabolic effects were reported in non-diabetic children with Berardinelli–Seip congenital lipodystrophy (BSCL); this information prompted us to hypothesize that long-term leptin-replacement therapy might improve or reverse the early complications of the disease in these patients.

Patients and methods

A 28-month trial was implemented in eight patients. Efficacy assessment was based on a decrease in serum triglyceride concentrations, and/or a decrease in liver volume and/or an increase in insulin sensitivity of at least 30% respectively. The response was defined as follows: total (3/3 positive criteria), partial (1 or 2/3), or negative (0/3). Anti-leptin antibodies were measured with a radiobinding assay, and a neutralizing effect was assessed in primary cultures of embryonic neurons incubated with an apoptotic agent (N-methyl-d-aspartate) and the patient serum, with or without leptin.

Results

A negative or partial response to treatment was observed in five of eight patients even when leptin dosages were increased. A displaceable leptin binding was detectable in all patients after 2 months of treatment. At 28 months, binding was higher in the patients with a negative response than in the total responders, and it paralleled both the increase in leptin dosage and serum leptin concentrations. Co-incubation of embryonic neurons with serum from two patients with a negative response inhibited the neuroprotective effect of leptin.

Conclusion

Under leptin therapy, patients with BSCL may develop a resistance to leptin, which could be partly of immunological origin, blunting the previously reported beneficial effects.
A Minimally Invasive Method for Extraction of Sturgeon Oocytes
Authors: Candrl James S , Papoulias Diana M , Tillitt Donald E
Published: March 2010

Fishery biologists, hatchery personnel, and caviar fishers routinely extract oocytes from sturgeon (Acipenseridae) to determine the stage of maturation by checking egg quality. Typically, oocytes are removed either by inserting a catheter into the oviduct or by making an incision in the body cavity. Both methods can be time-consuming and stressful to the fish. We describe a device to collect mature oocytes from sturgeons quickly and effectively with minimal stress on the fish. The device is made by creating a needle from stainless steel tubing and connecting it to a syringe with polyvinyl chloride tubing. The device is filled with saline solution or water, the needle is inserted into the abdominal wall, and eggs are extracted from the fish. Using this device, an oocyte sample can be collected in less than 30 s. Such sampling leaves a minute wound that heals quickly and does not require suturing. The extractor device can easily be used in the field or hatchery, reduces fish handling time, and minimizes stress.
Poststocking Survival of Hybrid Striped Bass after Changes in Water Hardness and Temperature
Authors: Port Paul R , Lochmann Steve E , Neal J Wesley
Published: March 2010

Mortality of hybrid striped bass (striped bass Morone saxatilis × white bass M. chrysops) after stocking can be high and is often attributed to changes in hardness between hatchery water and natural systems. Two studies were conducted to examine the effect of (1) rate of reducing water from high to low hardness and (2) abrupt changes in water hardness and temperature on poststocking survival of hybrid striped bass. In the first study, small (<30 g) and large (>50 g) fingerling hybrid striped bass in high-hardness water (365 mg/L CaCO3) were tempered to low-hardness water (42 mg/L) over 35 or 60 min and compared with a control group exposed to no change in hardness. In the second study, small and large fingerlings from high-hardness water (365 mg/L; 17°C) were subjected to (1) an acute 5°C increase in water temperature; (2) an acute 326-mg/L decrease in water hardness; (3) a simultaneous acute 5°C increase in temperature and 326-mg/L decrease in water hardness; or (4) no change in hardness or temperature. All groups were monitored for 1 week poststocking, and mortality was summarized. In the first study, no differences in mortality were observed between the two tempering rates or the control for small or large fingerlings. In the second study, a 326-mg/L water hardness decrease alone, a 5°C temperature increase alone, and these two treatments in combination did not significantly affect mortality for either size-class. These studies suggest that temperature and hardness changes occurring alone or simultaneously do not explain observed poststocking mortality, but additional environmental factors not tested might act synergistically with hardness and temperature changes to reduce hybrid striped bass poststocking survival.
Assessment of Prerelease Diet Regimes on Growth of Juvenile Atlantic Sturgeon
Authors: Markin Erin L , Lazur Andrew , Hengst Angie
Published: March 2010

To determine whether the growth rates of juvenile Atlantic sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus would be improved if the fish were weaned to natural food before being released into a simulated natural environment, 60 sturgeon from the 2006 and 2007 year-classes (ages 2 and 1, respectively) were subjected to two prerelease diet regimes (n = 30 per treatment, 120 total). Each year-class was divided into two groups, a control group that was fed a commercial diet for 10 d until stocking into a 0.2-ha earthen pond in June 2008 and a treatment group that was weaned to natural food over a 10-d period before stocking. Final sampling (84 d poststocking) showed that year-class had an effect on the specific growth rate (% weight gain/d) but that treatment did not. The survival rates were 77% and 80% among the controls from the 2007 and 2006 year-classes and 87% and 90% among the treatment fish. This study shows that weaning to natural food before release into a natural environment does not significantly affect the specific growth or survival rates of Atlantic sturgeon.
Sustainability in the bio/agro industry: a case study
Authors: Engelhardt D.
Published: March 2010

With the current significant increase in economic and environmental pressures, industry leaders are now calling for sustainable solutions, while politicians are looking for ways to legislate accordingly. Any such solutions and subsequent legislation would need to be both effective and economically viable. In short, we know what needs to be done, we now need to find ways to make it happen. Established in 2007, Biopark Terneuzen, The Netherlands, is acting as a catalyst, smart linking agro-industrial companies operating in the same geography. The objective of the initiative is to encourage and facilitate companies’ drive to maximise the use of one another’s by-products and waste matters, turning them into feedstock, energy or utility supplements. Although still in the early stages of development, this initiative is already showing positive results for its participants. This article looks at the achievements of Biopark Terneuzen to date and discusses the future challenges and practical implications of smartlinking. Bio Base Europe, a cross-border joint project to drive the transition from fossil-based to bio-based industrial processes, is also discussed.
Using recycled waste tyres in concrete paving blocks
Authors: Ling T. C. , Nor H. M. , Lim S. K.
Published: March 2010

There is general agreement that waste tyres should be better managed in order to preserve valuable resources and prevent environmental damage as a result of improper disposal. This paper describes the use of crumb rubber in concrete paving blocks. Existing block material is characterised as a composite with high compressive strength but with low toughness; the addition of rubber improves toughness while meeting minimum strength requirements. A total of 4300 rubberised concrete paving blocks were produced in a commercial plant, and 348 were tested for compression and abrasion performance, sound absorption, voids and skid resistance. The test results revealed that rubber substitution should not exceed 20% by sand volume in order to avoid excessive reductions in compressive strength. Further investigations showed that sound absorption and toughness were improved as the rubber content in the mix increased. The specimens showed a significant capability for absorbing dynamic loading and resisting crack propagation, which is beneficial for pavements that require good impact resistance properties.