bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Inhaled Ciclesonide and Fluticasone Propionate in Patients With Persistent Asthma
Authors: Xu Jian , Nave Rüdiger , Lahu Gezim , Derom Eric , Derendorf Hartmut
Published: February 2010

Inhaled corticosteroids, such as fluticasone propionate (FP) and ciclesonide (CIC), are commonly used for the treatment of asthma. The objectives of this study were to characterize pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of FP and a pharmacologically active metabolite of CIC (desisobutyryl‐ciclesonide [Des‐CIC]) using a nonlinear mixed‐effects modeling approach, to investigate selected covariate effects on PK and PD parameters of FP and Des‐CIC, and to assess the systemic effects of FP and CIC on serum cortisol suppression in patients with persistent asthma. This was a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, double‐dummy, 5‐period, crossover, multicenter clinical study. A total of 32 patients were enrolled and given basic asthma medication (salmeterol 50 μg twice per day [BID] and CIC 160 μg daily in the evening) through the entire study. During crossover periods, patients were given placebo or CIC 160 μg BID (ex actuator), CIC 320 μg BID (ex actuator), FP 220 μg BID (ex actuator), or FP 440 μg BID (ex actuator). The FP and Des‐CIC PK were described using a 1‐compartment and a 2‐compartment linear model with first‐order absorption process. The FP population PK parameter estimates of the first‐order rate constant, relative clearance, and volume of distribution were 4.07 1/h, 890 L/h, and 9800 L, respectively. The Des‐CIC PK parameter estimates of the first‐order absorption rate constant were 2.63 1/h, clearance 202 L/h (non‐CIC treatment) or 271 L/h (CIC treatment), and volume of distribution 947 L. Gender was a significant covariate on the maximum cortisol release rate (male, 3440 μg/h; female, 4310 μg/h). The CIC showed the least serum cortisol suppression of the tested dosing regimens.
Comparison of the Gastrointestinal Absorption and Bioavailability of Fenofibrate and Fenofibric Acid in Humans
Authors: Zhu Tong , Ansquer Jean‐Claude , Kelly Maureen T. , Sleep Darryl J. , Pradhan Rajendra S.
Published: February 2010

This study compared the gastrointestinal (GI) absorption characteristics and absolute bioavailability of fenofibric acid and fenofibrate (which is converted to fenofibric acid in vivo) in healthy volunteers. Treatments were delivered to the proximal small bowel, distal small bowel, and colon using a site‐specific delivery system (Enterion capsule) and to the stomach by oral administration of equimolar doses. Serial blood samples were collected for 120 hours postdose and assayed for plasma fenofibric acid concentrations. The absolute bioavailability of each treatment was determined relative to 50 mg of fenofibric acid administered intravenously. Plasma exposure to fenofibric acid following fenofibric acid administration was approximately 1.5 times higher than that following fenofibrate administration for delivery to the proximal and distal small bowel and following oral administration, and it was approximately 5 times higher following colon delivery. The absolute bioavailability in the stomach, proximal small bowel, distal small bowel, and colon was approximately 81%, 88%, 84%, and 78%, respectively, for fenofibric acid and 69%, 73%, 66%, and 22%, respectively, for fenofibrate (P < .0001 and P = .033 for fenofibric acid vs fenofibrate in the colon and distal small bowel, respectively). In conclusion, fenofibric acid is well absorbed throughout the GI tract and has greater bioavailability than fenofibrate in all GI regions.
Variability in Free Mycophenolic Acid Exposure in Adult Liver Transplant Recipients During the Early Posttransplantation Period
Authors: Benichou Anne Sophie , Blanchet Benoit , Conti Filomena , Hornecker Maryline , Bernard Denis , Taieb Fabrice , Scatton Olivier , Abbas Halim , Harcouet Laura , Dauphin Alain , Calmus Yvon , Tod Michel
Published: February 2010

Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) pharmacokinetics variability in liver transplant recipients during the early posttransplantation period may be related to changes in mycophenolic acid (MPA) protein binding. This study aimed at characterizing the variation of free MPA exposure with respect to time since transplantation. Three groups (A, B, C) were compared. The median posttransplantation time was 12 days (A, n = 26 pharmacokinetic sessions), 36 days (B, n = 25), and 867 days (C, n = 21). The median MPA AUC0–12 in group A (26.8 mg·h/L) was significantly lower than in groups B (45.2 mg·h/L, P = .031) and C (43.5 mg·h/L, P = .004). Free MPA AUC0–12 was comparable whatever the time (0.41, 0.34, and 0.33 mg·h/L, respectively). MPA apparent clearance (CL/F) was significantly correlated with MPA free fraction (r = 0.60, P < .0001) and approximately 1.7‐fold higher in group A compared to groups B and C (P < .05). Enhanced CL/F in relation with an increase in MPA free fraction results in a low AUC of total MPA during the first postoperative month, but on average, at the population level, the exposure to free MPA is not altered, suggesting that total MPA AUC should not be used to adapt MMF dosing during this period.
Atenolol Pharmacokinetics and Excretion in Breast Milk During the First 6 to 8 Months Postpartum
Authors: Eyal Sara , Kim Joong D. , Anderson Gail D. , Buchanan Megan L. , Brateng Debra A. , Carr Darcy , Woodrum David E. , Easterling Thomas R. , Hebert Mary F.
Published: February 2010

The objectives were to evaluate the time course for atenolol pharmacokinetics in lactating women postpartum and to quantify atenolol plasma concentrations in the women's 3‐ to 4‐month‐old nursing infants. Data were collected during 1 dosing interval from lactating women treated with atenolol for therapeutic reasons, at 2 to 4 weeks (n = 32), 3 to 4 months (n = 22), and 6 to 8 months (n = 17) postpartum. A single blood sample was collected from 15 nursing infants (3–4 months of age) of the mothers participating in the study. At 2 to 4 weeks, 3 to 4 months, and 6 to 8 months postpartum, atenolol infant doses, relative to the mother's weight‐adjusted dose, were 14.6% ± 7.6%, 8.3% ± 5.2% and 5.9% ± 2.9%, respectively. Over this time, maternal atenolol pharmacokinetics did not change to a clinically significant extent. Atenolol concentrations were below assay quantification limits (<10 ng/mL) in the plasma of all 3‐ to 4‐month‐old nursing infants studied. These findings support the careful use of atenolol during breastfeeding, because in the vast majority of healthy, term infants, atenolol concentrations will be too low to be clinically relevant. Premature infants and those with kidney disease require further study. Infant exposure depends on maternal dose and decreases during the first 6 to 8 months postpartum.
“Killing Spree”: Exploring the Connection Between Competitive Game Play and Aggressive Cognition
Authors: Schmierbach Mike
Published: February 2010

Although scholars have repeatedly linked video games to aggression, little research has investigated how specific game characteristics might generate such effects. In this study, we consider how game mode—cooperative, competitive, or solo—shapes aggressive cognition. Using experimental data, we find partial support for the idea that cooperative play modes prompt less aggressive cognition. Further analysis of potential mediating variables along with the influence of gender suggests the effect is primarily explained by social learning rather than frustration.
Democracy Rising: The Monuments of Baltimore, 1809-1842
Authors: Ryan Mary P.
Published: February 2010

On July 4, 1815 the citizenry of Baltimore, Maryland laid the cornerstone for what would become the first Washington Monument. A few months later, just a few blocks away, ground was broken for a second monument, called the Battle or the Baltimore Monument, which celebrated the ordinary citizens and soldiers who died defending the city during the War of 1812. These two monuments expressed rival political ideologies and reflected the clashing interests that hovered around them in urban space. It was the Battle Monument, rooted in more local, plebian, and essentially urban political culture, that came to best represent democratic ideals and to anchor them in the public space where they could be put into practice.
“The Other Side of the Milliken Coin”: The Promise and Pitfalls of Metropolitan School Desegregation
Authors: Gadsden Brett
Published: February 2010

This article explores the efforts of school desegregation proponents as they forwarded a metropolitan challenge to discrimination in school and housing policies that explained the concentration of black students in Wilmington, Delaware and white students in the surrounding suburbs.Their efforts proved successful in securing the nation’s first court-mandated interdistrict, metropolitan desegregation remedy. This black political insurgency was accompanied, however, by a concomitant white backlash to a two-way busing program that was designed to overcome the racial divide. White opponents mobilized to exert a profoundly conservative influence on the outcomes of school desegregation policies and managed to shape the outcomes of reforms that demanded the dismantling of predominately black educational institutions and transferred the burdens of reform, in terms of both years and distances bused, onto black students. In this way, this article concludes that opponents of reform established themselves as indispensable, if counterproductive, figures in the Long Civil Rights Movement.
The capitalist labour process: Concepts and connections
Authors: Thompson Paul
Published: February 2010

The Conference of Socialist Economists (CSE) and Capital & Class were central in creating the conditions for a labour process debate. However, while the journal has continued to publish some articles on labour process issues, the debate has become associated primarily with the annual International Labour Process Conference. This article explores shifts in the nature and focus of debates, emphasizing continuity between the traditions as well as change. By contrasting early attempts in the journal to uncover ‘immanent laws’ of the capitalist labour process to more recent writings on core theory, contemporary trends in labour power and capitalist political economy are outlined and evaluated.
Free economy and the strong state: Some notes on the state
Authors: Bonefeld Werner
Published: February 2010

The crisis of 2008 is said to have brought the state back in, and its resurgence, in turn, is seen as revealing post-neoliberal tendencies. This analytical framework implies a conception of market and state as two distinct modes of social organization, and the perennial question about such a conception is whether the market has autonomy vis-à-vis the state, or the state vis-à-vis the market. Their social constitution as distinct forms of social relations is not raised. This paper argues that the capitalist state is fundamentally a liberal state. This conception entails class as the determining category of its form and content.
The ‘return’ of the national state in the current crisis of the world market
Authors: Jessop Bob
Published: February 2010

The period from the 1970s to the 1990s saw much discussion about the declining power of national states in the face of internationalization and, later, globalization. This topic has been explored within the Conference of Socialist Economists since its founding meeting in October 1970, as well as in many issues of its Bulletin and, later, in Capital & Class. The global economic crisis has reinvigorated this debate, and invites a return to some of the first principles of historical materialism. Starting with Marx and Engels’ discussion of the world market and national states, I explore the impact of neoliberalism on both aspects of this relation and then draw some general conclusions.
Marxism and nationalism in the era of globalization
Authors: Munck Ronaldo
Published: February 2010

Marxists have been engaging with nationalism from the days of Marx and Engels until the present, generating much debate (for an overview, see Lowy, 1998, Munck, 1986 and Nimni, 1991), but also considerable confusion. This article traces the genealogy of Marxist engagement with nationalism in the work and practice of Marx and Engels; in the later response by the communist movement following the Russian Revolution of 1917; in relation to the unorthodox theory of nationalism produced by the Austro-Marxist Otto Bauer; and, finally, in some of the debates within the broad Marxist/post-Marxist strands of political thought that seek to place nationalism in the era of globalization.
Value is as value does: Twixt knowledge and the world economy
Authors: Fine Ben , Jeon Heesang , Gimm Gong H.
Published: February 2010

This paper addresses two important, conspicuous topics for the understanding of contemporary capitalism: the world market and the knowledge economy. By locating these within Marx’s value theory, its authors take issue with other interpretations that explicitly reject or misinterpret Marx’s value theory in light of these themes. More generally, these exercises point to the need for value theory and the fact that it should and can move beyond its traditional terrain, collaborating with other strands of critical thought in understanding developments within contemporary society.
Form, fetish, and film: Revisiting Open Marxism
Authors: Spence Martin
Published: February 2010

This article examines the main lines of argument developed within the autonomist or Open Marxist tradition, focusing especially on the work of Holloway and Negri. Referring to the experience of workers in the film industry, its author finds that some themes, including the concept of class composition, have much to offer. But he criticizes Negri’s overall schema, including his categories of social labour and immaterial labour. He suggests a different interpretation of key passages in the Grundrisse to argue instead for continuity with Marx’s analysis, and for the continuing relevance of trade unions in the struggle around class composition.
Global unions: Chasing the dream or building the reality?
Authors: Stirling John
Published: February 2010

This article takes as its theme the global restructuring of capital and its impact on worker organization. It argues for a reassertion of class in any analysis of global solidarity, and assesses the opportunities and barriers to effective global unionization. Rooted in the UK experience, the article analyzes the impact of the European social dimension on trade unions, before taking the discussion into a global dimension. It concludes by suggesting that there are reasons for cautious optimism in terms of solidarity building, despite difficult historical legacies and the common replacement of action with rhetoric.
The state of workplace union reps’ organization in Britain today
Authors: Darlington Ralph
Published: February 2010

This article provides a brief evaluation of the state of workplace union reps’ organization in Britain as we approach the second decade of the 2000s. It documents the severe weakening of workplace union organization over the last 25 years, which is reflected in the declining number of reps, reduced bargaining power and the problem of bureaucratization. But it also provides evidence of the continuing resilience, and even combativity in certain areas of employment, of workplace union reps organization, and considers the future potential for a revival of fortunes.
Marxism without Marx: A note towards a critique
Authors: Freeman Alan
Published: February 2010

The most severe economic crisis since 1929 has produced a level of intellectual disarray probably not seen since 1968. In one crucial respect, the climate is different: Marxism’s intellectual impact is negligible. The culprit is not Marx but ‘Marxism without Marx’—a systematic attempt to divorce his conclusions from his economic theory. The demise of western Marxism marks the failure of this project. This note signals a first attempt to assess Marx’s real relevance to the crisis of 2008.
Epidemiology of Ankle Sprain at the United States Military Academy
Authors: Waterman Brian R. , Belmont Philip J. , Cameron Kenneth L. , DeBerardino Thomas M. , Owens Brett D.
Published: February 2010

Background

Ankle sprain is a common injury in athletic populations that results in significant time lost to injury.

Hypothesis

The incidence rates (IRs) of ankle ligament sprains are influenced by gender, height, weight, body mass index (BMI), physical conditioning, level of competition, type of sport, and athlete exposure to sport.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

A longitudinal cohort study was performed to determine the effect of risk factors for ankle sprain at the United States Military Academy between 2005 and 2007.

Results

A total 614 cadets sustained new ankle sprains during 10 511 person-years at risk, resulting in an overall IR of 58.4 per 1000 person-years. Women (96.4), compared with men (52.7), had a significantly increased rate ratio (IRR) for ankle sprain of 1.83 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.52-2.20). Men with ankle sprains had higher mean height, weight, and BMI than uninjured men (P < .001). Men with ankle sprains had higher average scores in push-ups, sit-ups, and run time than uninjured men (P < .001). Ankle sprain occurred most commonly during athletics (64.1%). Ankle sprain IR did not significantly differ between intercollegiate and intramural athletic competition after controlling for athlete-exposure (IRR, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.81-1.37). The ankle sprain IRR of female compared with male intercollegiate athletes was 0.93 (95% CI, 0.67-1.32) per 1000 person-years and 1.04 (95% CI, 0.74-1.47) per 1000 athlete-exposures. The intercollegiate sports of men's rugby, women's cheerleading, and men's/women's basketball, soccer, and lacrosse had the highest ankle sprain IR.

Conclusion

Higher mean height and weight in men, increased BMI in men, greater physical conditioning in men, and athlete exposure to selected sports were all risk factors for ankle sprain.
Profiles Design, Optimization, and Geometric Analysis of Rotors of a Novel Continuous Kneader Reactor
Authors: Jing Wei  , Li Guo  , Guang Hui Zhang
Published: February 2010

A new type of continuous kneader reactor with capability of self-cleaning, compulsory transportation, and mixture as well as plasticizing for high viscosity material mixing and malaxating is proposed in this article. Geometric analysis, optimization, and tooth profiling of the kneader reactor are described in detail and the working principles of the kneader are analyzed. The theories of profiles designing and mathematical model of the kneader are established based on gear engagement theory. The design parameters of the kneader are analyzed and the variable proportions of volumetric efficiency Cn are investigated when distance A and ratio Imf changes. The study reveals that when the profiles of female and male rotor are cycloids, the best transportation and self-cleaning ability are obtained. The analytical expression of optimal distance A is deduced with consideration of shear performance. The analytical expression of the screw rotor profiles and practical examples as well as the machining method are also presented.
Chemical Resistance and Tensile Properties of Glass and Bamboo Fibers Reinforced Polyester Hybrid Composites
Authors: Venkata Subba Reddy E. , Varada Rajulu A. , Hemachandra Reddy K. , Ramachandra Reddy G.
Published: February 2010

The chemical resistance of the glass/bamboo fibers reinforced polyester composites to acetic acid, sodium hydroxide, ammonium hydroxide, sodium carbonates, benzene, toluene, carbon tetrachloride, and water was studied. The hybrid fiber composites showed better resistance to these chemicals. Besides this, the tensile properties of glass/bamboo fibers reinforced polyester hybrid composites were studied. The effect of alkali treatment of the bamboo fibers on these properties was also studied. It was observed that tensile properties of the hybrid composites increased with glass fiber content. These properties were found to be higher when alkali treated bamboo fibers were used in the hybrid composites. The elimination of amorphous hemi-cellulose with alkali treatment leading to higher crystallinity of the bamboo fibers may be responsible for these observations.
Finite Element Analysis and Damage Indices for Flexural Behavior of Rural Concrete Composites
Authors: Sivaraja M. , Kandasamy S.
Published: February 2010

In this article, finite element analysis using commercial software ANSYS 10 for rural fibrous concrete composite beams under flexural static loading is presented. Also damage indices for different fibrous beams under flexural cyclic loading are obtained using the available simple damage index formula. Rural fibers such as nylon, plastic, tyre, coir, and sugarcane are taken for finite element analysis, and rice husk is also taken with above said fibers for damage index prediction. Three volume fractions such as 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5% are used at a constant aspect ratio of 60. The results of finite element analysis are compared with experimental values. Damage indices of different fibrous concrete specimens are discussed, taking 0.5 as the desired value.
Intimate Partner Violence During Pregnancy: A Pilot Intervention Program in Lima, Peru
Authors: Cripe Swee May , Sanchez Sixto E. , Sanchez Elena , Ayala Quintanilla Beatriz , Hernández Alarcon Christian , Gelaye Bizu , Williams Michelle A.
Published: February 2010

This pilot study examined the effectiveness of standard care and an empowerment intervention for abused pregnant women. Severe psychological abuse was most prevalent (42.2%) among this sample of women. Compared with women in the standard care group at the postintervention survey, women in the empowerment group were more likely to hide money (44.6% vs. 34.3%), establish a code with family or friends (19.6% vs. 16.2%), ask neighbors to call police if violence began (6.9% vs. 1.0%), had available bank account numbers (17.1% vs. 3.1%), had valuable jewelry (8.4% vs. 3.8%), and had available a hidden bag with extra clothing (9.0% vs. 3.1%). However, there was no statistically significant difference in health-related quality of life, adoption of safety behaviors, and use of community resources between women in the two groups. Simply asking pregnant women about abuse and offering referral could potentially interrupt and prevent further abuse.
Association of Apolipoproteins E4 and C1 With Onset Age and Memory: A Study of Sporadic Alzheimer Disease in Taiwan
Authors: Chuang Wen-Li , Hsieh Yu-Chen , Wang Chun-Yi , Kuo Hung-Chou , Huang Chin-Chang
Published: February 2010

Objective: To identify clinical manifestations and neuropsychological effects of Alzheimer disease (AD) in apolipoprotein (ApoE) e4 carriers and to investigate the relationships between ApoE HhaI polymorphism and apolipoprotein C1 (APOC1) HpaI polymorphism in Taiwanese patients with AD. Participants and methods: A total of 127 patients with AD and 191 elderly individuals were screened for ApoE and APOC1 polymorphism. All patients underwent neuropsychological testing, including a Mini-Mental Status Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), and/or the Visual Association Memory Test (VAMT) with Cognitive Abilities Screening Instrument. Results: The frequencies of the e4 and A alleles were significantly higher in the AD group. In the patients with AD, the e4 and A allele effects on those with an age-of-onset of 60 to 79 years were stronger than those with an age-of-onset of 80 years or higher. Visual Association Memory Test performance was significantly worse in e4-allele carriers but not in A-allele carriers, in the early AD, particularly in those affected with AD for less than 2 years. Although there was no statistically significant difference in genotypic frequency between patients and controls, the 2 genes were linked. In addition, the presence of the AA genotype concomitant with the e4 allele may be better associated with AD diagnosis than either factor alone. Conclusion: We conclude that the e4 allele affects neuropsychological performance and illness morbidity. Concomitantly, ApoE e4 and APOC1 A alleles have a better association with AD than ApoE e4 alone. In addition, APOC1 may partially contribute to the pathogenesis of AD, but the nature of its relationship with e4 requires further investigation.
Effect of Organo-modified Layered Silicates on the Properties of Poly(Methyl Methacrylate) Nanocomposites
Authors: Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K.
Published: February 2010

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/layered silicate nanocomposites were prepared using melt intercalation technique. Commercially modified nanoclays such as Cloisite 30B (C30B), Cloisite 20A (C20A), and Bentone 109 (B109) have been used as organoclays for the preparation of nanocomposites. PMMA matrix has been grafted with maleic anhydride to modify the interfacial region and improve the interfacial adhesion between organoclays and PMMA matrix. Mechanical tests revealed an increase in the tensile modulus of PMMA/C30B (5%) nanocomposite to about 35% as compared to virgin PMMA matrix. Thermal measurements employing differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis also showed improved thermal stability and marginal increase in Tg of PMMA matrix with the incorporation of nanoclays. Wide angle X-ray diffractograms revealed an increase in d-spacing of C30B nanoclay from 18.5 to 39.4 Å in PMMA/C30B nanocomposites, thus confirming intercalated structure. The dispersion characteristics of organoclay within PMMA matrix was also investigated using transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, dynamic mechanical analysis shows a substantial increase in storage modulus of PMMA matrix with the incorporation of organoclays. Additionally, an improved fire retardancy of PMMA was also observed in PMMA/B109 (5 wt%) nanocomposites with an evidence of reduced horizontal rate of burning.
Aqueous extract of Securidaca longepedunculata root induce redox imbalance in male rat liver and kidney
Authors: Ajiboye TO , Salau AK , Yakubu MT , Oladiji AT , Akanji MA , Okogun JI
Published: February 2010

The effect of aqueous extract of Securidaca longepedunculata root on redox homeostasis in male rat liver and kidney was investigated. Rats were grouped into four: A, B, C and D, where A (the control) received orally 1 mL of distilled water; B, C and D (test groups) received orally 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight of the extract, respectively, for 28 days. Extract administration significantly reduced (p < .05) alkaline phosphatase activity in the liver and kidney with corresponding increases in the serum. Acid phosphatase activity increased significantly (p < .05) in the liver and kidney, while there was no significant change (p > .05) in the serum acid phosphatase activity. There was also significant decrease (p < .05) in the activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase in the liver and kidney. Liver and kidney levels of GSH, vitamins C and E were also significantly reduced (p < .05). Serum malonidialdehyde and lipid hydroperoxide increased significantly (p < .05) in all the extract-treated groups. The available data from this study revealed that aqueous extract of S. longepedunculata root exerted its toxicity in the animals by depleting the antioxidant systems. This may consequently expose the cells and cellular macromolecules to oxidative damage by reactive oxygen species generated either from the metabolism of the extract or other in vivo means.
Protective role of tannin-rich fraction of Camellia sinensis in tissue arsenic burden in Sprague Dawley rats
Authors: Chandronitha C. , Ananthi S. , Ramakrishnan G. , Lakshmisundaram R. , Gayathri V. , Vasanthi Hannah R
Published: February 2010

The protective effect of green tea (Camellia sinensis) was tested against arsenic-induced toxicity. However, the possible role of tannins in green tea in alleviating hepatic and renal oxidative injury has also been studied. Administration of sodium arsenite (100 mg/kg/day) for 28 days in Sprague Dawley female rats resulted in significant reduction of biochemical parameters such as delta-aminolevulinic acid dehydratase (ALAD), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and the index of nitrite/nitrate (NOx) levels. The tissue arsenic burden was increased after arsenic exposure for a period of 28 days. Green tea crude fraction (GTC) co-treated with sodium arsenite for 28 days caused significant (p < .01) elevation of ALAD, GSH, GPx, SOD, and nitrate/nitrite levels and reduction of the TBARS level and tissue burden when compared to detannified green tea fraction (GTDT)-treated groups. The protective role of tannin-rich fraction of C. sinensis when compared to the detannified fraction was also confirmed by histological examinations. The greater activity of GTC than that of detannified green tea fraction correlates with the higher content of tannins in green tea. Overall, these results indicate that the tannin-rich green tea could have improved the defense mechanism against arsenic-induced oxidative stress and reduced the tissue arsenic burden.
Effect of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) on lipolysis and lipoprotein lipase activities in adipose tissue of rats
Authors: Martinelli Marcela I , Mocchiutti Norberto O , Bernal Claudio A
Published: February 2010

The di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is an ubiquitous environmental chemical with detrimental health effects. The present work was designed to asses some potential mechanisms by which DEHP causes, among others, a reduced body fat retention. Since this effect could be related to an alteration of adipocyte triacylglycerol (TG) metabolism, we evaluated the effects of dietary DEHP in adipose tissues upon (1) the number and size of fat cells; (2) the basal and stimulated lipolysis and (3) the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) activity. Groups of male Wistar rats were fed for 21 days a control diet alone (control group) or the same control diet supplemented with 2% (w/w) of DEHP (DEHP group). The LPL activity of DEHP-fed rats was increased in lumbar and epididymal adipose tissues. These rats had significantly reduced weight in epididymal and lumbar tissues, together with reduced size of epididymal adipocytes. These alterations do not seem to be associated with higher lipid mobility because neither basal lipolysis nor ‘in vitro’ stimulated lipolysis by noradrenaline (NA) showed to be modified by DEHP. Based on these results, we concluded that the adipose tissue size reduction induced by DEHP intake is not due to changes in lipolysis nor to a decreased LPL activity. More research is needed to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the potential mechanisms by which DEHP causes, among others, a reduced body fat retention.
Chromosomal aberrations induced by imipramine and desipramine in mouse
Authors: Madrigal-Bujaidar E. , Cárdenas García Y. , Álvarez-González I.
Published: February 2010

Imipramine (IMI) and desipramine (DES) are two drugs widely used for the treatment of depression as well as for other diseases. In the present study, we determined their capacity to induce chromosomal aberrations in mouse bone marrow cells. Three doses of each compound were tested and their results were compared with the frequency of chromosomal aberrations obtained in a control group as well as with a group treated with cyclophosphamide. Our results showed a significant increase in chromosome damage with the doses tested for each compound: 7, 20, and 60 mg/kg in the case of IMI, and 2, 20, and 60 mg/kg as regards DES. This last drug induced stronger chromosomal damage than IMI. Our results agree with previous studies regarding the induction of micronuclei and sister chromatid exchanges by the drugs in mouse and suggest caution with respect to their use in long-term treatments.
Wild mushroom poisonings in the Middle Black Sea region in Turkey: Analyses of 6 years
Authors: Yardan Turker , Baydin Ahmet , Eden Arif Onur , Akdemir Hizir Ufuk , Aygun Dursun , Acar Ethem , Arslan Bora
Published: February 2010

Wild mushroom poisoning (MP) is an important medical emergency that may have serious clinical outcome. The aim of this study was to evaluate the demographic and clinical features of patients with wild MP. This study was designed retrospectively by examining files of the patients with wild MP who were admitted to Ondokuz Mayis University Emergency Department, between January 2002 and December 2007. Patients ≥16 years of age were included in the study. A total of 317 patients poisoned by wild mushrooms (mean age, 42.0 ± 16.3 years; 67.5% female) were studied. All poisonings were accidental, i.e. consumption of wild mushrooms collected from open fields and woodlands or purchased from local bazaars. The common symptoms and complaints on admission were nausea (86.8%) and vomiting (79.8%). The poisoning latent phase in most cases was <6 hours (86.8%). Most of the poisonings occurred in autumn (59.6%). Three patients died in the hospital due to acute liver failure and complications. The duration of hospitalization was a median 3 days (range: 1—12 days). The public should be informed about the probable hazards of wild mushroom ingestion.
A crucial role of nitric oxide in acute lung injury secondary to the acute necrotizing pancreatitis
Authors: Shi Cheng  , Yan Wen-Mao , Bin Yang  , Shi Jing-dong , Song Mao-min , Yuqian Zhao
Published: February 2010

To investigate the role of nitric oxide (NO) in acute lung inflammation and injury secondary to acute necrotizing pancreatitis (ANP), 5% sodium taurocholate was retrogradely injected into the biliopancreatic duct of rats to ANP model. These ANP rats were given L-Arginine (L-Arg, 100 mg/kg), L-NAME (10 mg/kg), or their combination by intraperitoneal injection 30 min prior to ANP induction. At 1, 3, 6, and 12 hours after ANP induction, lung NO production, and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) expression were measured. Lung histopathological changes, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) protein concentration, proinflammatory mediators tumor necrotic factor alpha (TNF-α), and lung tissue myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were examined. Results showed that NO production and iNOS mRNA expression in alveolar macrophages (AMs) were significantly increased along with significant increases in lung histological abnormalities and BAL proteins in the ANP group, all of which were further enhanced by pretreatment with L-Arg and attenuated by pretreatment with L-NAME, respectively. These markers were slightly attenuated by pretreatment with combination of L-Arg + L-NAME, suggesting that NO is required for initiating the acute lung damage in ANP rats, and also that L-Arg-enhanced lung injury is mediated by its NO generation rather than its direct effect. MPO activity and TNF-α expression in lung were upregulated in the ANP rats and further enhanced by pretreatment with L-Arg and attenuated by pretreatment with L-NAME, respectively. These results suggest that overproduction of NO mediated by iNOS in the lung is required for the acute lung inflammation and damage secondary to ANP.
Review: Ocular side effects of anti-rheumatic medications: what a rheumatologist should know
Authors: Peponis V. , Kyttaris VC , Chalkiadakis SE , Bonovas S. , Sitaras NM
Published: February 2010

Nearly every drug may cause changes to ocular tissues through a variety of mechanisms. Medication overdoses, drug—drug interactions but also chronic administration of medications at the recommended doses may lead to ocular toxicity. The ocular side effects, screening for eye toxicity and treatment guidelines for anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive drugs commonly used by rheumatologists are reviewed herein.
Research on Caregiving in Chinese Families Living With Mental Illness: A Critical Review
Authors: Hsiao Chiu-Yueh , Van Riper Marcia
Published: February 2010

Much of the existing research on caregiving in families of individuals with mental illness has been conducted in Western societies. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to critically examine research on caregiving in families of individuals with mental illness living in Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Mainland China. A search using computerized databases, public search engines, and references from retrieved articles revealed 37 studies published from 1990 to 2009. Four studies were theory driven at an individual level, and one study was guided by a family-level framework. Thirty-two articles were quantitative studies, and 5 were qualitative studies. All but 5 of 37 studies were cross-sectional. Findings suggest that misconceptions about mental illness, behavior disturbances, inadequate social support, and the limited value placed on caregiving contribute to maladaptation. Future research should include longitudinal studies guided by culturally appropriate family frameworks and studies using mixed methods.
Being Closely Connected to Health Care Providers Experiencing Burnout: Putting One’s Life on Hold to Help
Authors: Ericson-Lidman Eva , Strandberg Gunilla
Published: February 2010

Being closely connected to a person experiencing illness may be a trying experience.This study aimed to illuminate meanings of being closely connected to health care providers experiencing burnout. Ten interviews were conducted with five people closely connected (i.e., family members or supportive friends) to health care providers recovering from burnout. The interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed verbatim, and the resulting text was interpreted using a phenomenological-hermeneutic method. One consequence of being closely connected to health care providers experiencing burnout is putting one’s life on hold to help. In facing an almost unmanageable burden, those closely connected revealed their own suffering, emphasizing their need for support. Health care professionals need to be aware that those who are closely connected to a person experiencing burnout may lack knowledge about burnout and its related challenges. It is to be hoped such knowledge would allow significant others to better support the person experiencing burnout and promote their own health.
Implementing Family Nursing: How Do We Translate Knowledge Into Clinical Practice? Part II: The Evolution of 20 Years of Teaching, Research, and Practice to a Center of Excellence in Family Nursing
Authors: Duhamel Fabie
Published: February 2010

The author’s reflections on knowledge transfer/translation highlight the importance of the circular process between science and practice knowledge, leading to the notion of “knowledge exchange.” She addresses the dilemmas of translating knowledge into clinical practice by describing her academic contributions to knowledge exchange within Family Systems Nursing (FSN). Teaching and research strategies are offered that address the circularity between science and practice knowledge. The evolution of 20 years of teaching, research, and clinical experience has resulted in the recent creation of a Center of Excellence in Family Nursing at the University of Montreal. The three main objectives of the Center uniquely focus on knowledge exchange by providing (a) a training context for skill development for nurses specializing in FSN, (b) a research milieu for knowledge “creation” and knowledge “in action” studies to further advance the practice of FSN, and (c) a family healing setting to support families who experience difficulty coping with health issues.
Family Nursing Research for Practice: The Swedish Perspective
Authors: Saveman Britt-Inger
Published: February 2010

This article offers a synthesis of the significant developments and progress of family nursing in Sweden. A review was conducted to locate Swedish family nursing research produced over the past 10 years. CINAHL, Medline, and PubMed were the primary databases used to locate approximately 75 family nursing studies conducted in Sweden. The majority of the studies used descriptive methods with data collected from surveys and interviews involving nurses and family members either together or individually. Only a few of the studies examined family nursing interventions. This article also reports the results of a recent survey of Swedish nurses that examined how family nursing is used in practice. After 10 years of creating a strong foundation for family-focused nursing in Sweden, there is still a need for nurse researchers, educators, and administrators to collaborate in the implementation of family nursing to practice.
Influence of Harvest Dates on Quality, Storage Capacity and Sensory Attributes of European Plum cv. Green Gage
Authors: Guerra M. , Sanz M.A. , Casquero P.A.
Published: February 2010

The aim of this work was to determine storage capacity and changes in quality and consumer acceptance in plum harvested at different dates as well as to determine which instrumental parameters show good correlation with consumer acceptance and sensory properties. Both harvest date and storage time played a significant role in quality and sensory characteristics. Incidence of internal breakdown (IB) was significantly higher in fruit harvested last and increased significantly until the end of storage. Market life of ‘Green Gage’ plum varies from 20 days in fruit harvested on the last harvest date to 40 days in fruit harvested on earlier dates. When storage is needed, firmness, the best harvest index, should be higher than 42 N in order to extend market life and prevent IB damages in ‘Green Gage’ plums. However, fruit from early harvest dates has a lower consumer acceptance than fruit from late harvest dates (low TSS:TA). Thus, a minimum quality threshold based on TSS:TA (18.9) has been established over which consumer liking for European plums cv. Green Gage improves significantly. High linear regression between a* and TSS:TA would allow to use the a* color parameter as a nondestructive measurement to estimate consumer acceptance.
A Mechanics of Materials/Fracture Mechanics Analysis of Core Shear Failure in Foam Core Composite Sandwich Beams
Authors: Gibson Ronald F.
Published: February 2010

An elementary laminated beam theory and linear elastic fracture mechanics have been used to analyze initial core shear failure and corresponding initial crack sizes in foam core sandwich beams. The model is not intended for application to crack growth and kinking, which are observed in experiments. Predictions from the model were compared with previous experimental results from four-point bending tests of polymethacrylimide foam core sandwich beams having either unidirectional carbon/epoxy face sheets or woven E-glass/epoxy face sheets. The model was found to work best for sandwich beams having stiff face sheets, which minimize stress concentrations in the core at the loading points. For both types of beams, the predicted Mode II core shear crack sizes corresponding to fast fracture and sharp load drop in experiments were within an order of magnitude of the average foam cell size.
The politics of ‘platforms’
Authors: Gillespie Tarleton
Published: February 2010

Online content providers such as YouTube are carefully positioning themselves to users, clients, advertisers and policymakers, making strategic claims for what they do and do not do, and how their place in the information landscape should be understood. One term in particular, ‘platform’, reveals the contours of this discursive work. The term has been deployed in both their populist appeals and their marketing pitches, sometimes as technical ‘platforms’, sometimes as ‘platforms’ from which to speak, sometimes as ‘platforms’ of opportunity. Whatever tensions exist in serving all of these constituencies are carefully elided. The term also fits their efforts to shape information policy, where they seek protection for facilitating user expression, yet also seek limited liability for what those users say. As these providers become the curators of public discourse, we must examine the roles they aim to play, and the terms by which they hope to be judged.
The structure of international music flows using network analysis
Authors: Moon Shin-Il , Barnett George A. , Yon Soo Lim
Published: February 2010

Using network analysis, this study examines the current structure of international music trade flow and its determinants. International music trade data from the United Nations Commodity Trade Statistics database are employed to describe the international music flow network and how it changed between 2002 and 2006. Network analysis reveals the imbalance of international music trade between the core and the periphery. Specifically, the USA and European countries including Germany, the UK and the Netherlands are at the core, dominating international trade of music products. Over the five-year period, the international music trade network remained relatively stable. Regression analysis indicates that a country’s economic development, the language(s) its people speak and technological development are influential factors that determine the global structure of international music flows.
Designing for imaginary friends: information architecture, personas and the politics of user-centered design
Authors: Massanari Adrienne L.
Published: February 2010

This article considers the problematic relationship between new media designers and users in current texts written about user-centered design (UCD) techniques. To better understand and solidify the importance of the user within the technological artifact, these designers often create ‘personas’ — prototypical users with names, faces, interests and preferences. Personas serve as boundary objects used as conceptual stand-ins for users when team members make design decisions. This article traces the discursive construction of the ‘user’ within web design texts and how these texts describe the persona technique. The analysis suggests that the use of personas is motivated as much by political realities within new media organizations, as it is by the desire to address user needs. In addition, it is argued that personas serve to reinscribe the conceptual separation between the user and designer despite technological developments (like Web 2.0) that blur this boundary.
A modern Cinderella story: a comparison of viewer responses to interactive vs linear narrative in solitary and co-viewing settings
Authors: Lee Michael Sangyeob , Heeter Carrie , LaRose Robert
Published: February 2010

Interactive narratives are increasingly technologically possible and are expected to become an everyday form of entertainment, but for now actual implementations are rare. This 2 × 2 experiment compared dyadic (co-viewing) vs solitary emotional reactions watching either a linear or an interactive version of a seven-minute digital video narrative, Modern Cinderella. Eighty subjects were randomly assigned to each of the four conditions. People who watched the interactive version of Modern Cinderella reported higher enjoyment than those who watched the linear version. Story involvement, arousal and connection were not different across conditions. Those who experienced the interactive version were enthusiastic about being able to make choices. Interactive narratives appear to fall in-between high and low involvement. Co-viewing of the interactive narrative was different to solitary viewing. Those watching with another person thought less carefully about the choices and paid less attention. Solitary viewers were the more curious.
Mobile social networks and urban public space
Authors: Humphreys Lee
Published: February 2010

The development and proliferation of mobile social networks have the potential to transform ways that people come together and interact in public space. These services allow new kinds of information to flow into public spaces and, as such, can rearrange social and spatial practices. Dodgeball is used as a case study of mobile social networks. Based on a year-long qualitative field study, this article explores how Dodgeball was used to facilitate social congregation in public spaces and begins to expand our understanding of traditional notions of space and social interaction. Drawing on the concept of parochial space, this article examines how ideas of mobile communication and public space are negotiated in the everyday practice and use of mobile social networks.