bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of a crystal nucleus from liquid
Authors: Kawasaki Takeshi , Tanaka Hajime
Published: July 2010

Crystallization is one of the most fundamental nonequilibrium phenomena universal to a variety of materials. It has so far been assumed that a supercooled liquid is in a “homogeneous disordered state” before crystallization. Contrary to this common belief, we reveal that a supercooled colloidal liquid is actually not homogeneous, but has transient medium-range structural order. We find that nucleation preferentially takes place in regions of high structural order via wetting effects, which reduce the crystal–liquid interfacial energy significantly and thus promotes crystal nucleation. This novel scenario provides a clue to solving a long-standing mystery concerning a large discrepancy between the rigorous numerical estimation of the nucleation rate on the basis of the classical nucleation theory and the experimentally observed ones. Our finding may shed light not only on the mechanism of crystal nucleation, but also on the fundamental nature of a supercooled liquid state.
Pilot study to relate clinical outcome in pancreatic carcinoma and angiogenic plasma factors/circulating mature/progenitor endothelial cells: Preliminary results
Authors: Vizio Barbara , Novarino Anna , Giacobino Alice , Cristiano Carmen , Prati Adriana , Brondino Gabriele , Ciuffreda Libero , Bellone Graziella
Published: July 2010

Circulating endothelial cells (CEC) and bone marrow‐derived endothelial progenitors (ECP) play important roles in tumor growth and have been proposed as non‐invasive markers of angiogenesis. However, CEC and ECP levels have not been investigated in pancreatic carcinoma patients. Using four‐color flow cytometry procedures, we evaluated the count of resting (rCEC) and activated (aCEC) endothelial cells and ECP in the peripheral blood of pancreatic carcinoma patients before and after chemotherapy, consisting of gemcitabine (GEM) alone or in combination with oxaliplatin (OX), or with 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU). We also correlated CEC and ECP levels with plasma levels of relevant angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐A, VEGF‐D, angiopoietin (Angio)‐1, and chemokine C‐X‐C motif ligand (CXCL)12, measured by ELISA, and with clinical features of pancreatic cancer. The aCEC, rCEC, ECP, and VEGF‐A plasma levels were significantly higher in locally‐advanced and metastatic patients than controls. Both ECP and VEGF‐A levels correlated positively with disease stage and inversely with patient’s overall survival. Measurements after the treatment course showed that VEGF‐A plasma concentrations and ECP counts had decreased significantly. In particular, VEGF‐A and rCEC were significantly down after treatment with GEM alone or in combination with OX. No significant differences in terms of circulating angiogenic factor or endothelial cell subtype levels were found between responders (patients entering partial remission or with stable disease) and non‐responders (patients with progressive disease). The study provides insights into angiogenesis mechanisms in pancreatic carcinoma, for which anti‐angiogenic targeting of VEGF‐A and ECP could be of interest. (Cancer Sci 2010; 101: 2448–2454)
Lack of clinically relevant drug–drug interactions when dalcetrapib is co‐administered with ezetimibe
Authors: Derks Michael , Abt Markus , Phelan Mary
Published: July 2010

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Dalcetrapib, which targets cholesteryl ester transfer protein, is currently in phase III development to evaluate its effect on the prevention of cardiovascular events. It will likely be co‐administered with other lipid‐modifying drugs such as the cholesterol absorption inhibitor ezetimibe. There are currently no studies on the co‐administration of dalcetrapib with ezetimibe.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• This study showed no clinically relevant pharmacokinetic interactions when dalcetrapib was co‐administered with ezetimibe. The effect of dalcetrapib on raising high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol was not compromised, and there was an additive effect on low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol lowering with co‐administration of dalcetrapib with ezetimibe compared with ezetimibe alone. Dalcetrapib alone or co‐administered with ezetimibe was not associated with an increased rate of adverse events compared with ezetimibe alone.

AIMS

Dalcetrapib, which targets cholesteryl ester transfer protein activity, is in development for prevention of cardiovascular events. Because dalcetrapib will likely be prescribed with other lipid‐modifying therapies such as ezetimibe, a study was performed to investigate potential pharmacokinetic interactions between dalcetrapib and ezetimibe. Lipids changes and tolerability were secondary endpoints.

METHODS

Co‐administration of dalcetrapib 900 mg (higher than the phase III dose) with ezetimibe was investigated in a three period, three treatment crossover study in healthy males: 7 days of dalcetrapib, 7 days of dalcetrapib plus ezetimibe, 7 days of ezetimibe alone. A full pharmacokinetic profile was performed on day 7 of each treatment.

RESULTS

Co‐administration of dalcetrapib with ezetimibe was associated with minimal changes in dalcetrapib exposure compared with dalcetrapib alone. Least squares mean ratio (LSMR) (90% confidence interval) was 93.6 (87.1, 100.7) for AUC(0,24 h) and 99.0 (85.2, 115.0) for Cmax. Ezetimibe exposure was reduced with co‐administration of ezetimibe with dalcetrapib compared with ezetimibe alone: LSMR 80.3 (74.6, 86.4) for AUC(0,24 h) and 88.9 (80.9, 99.9) for Cmax for total ezetimibe. High‐density lipoprotein cholesterol increases associated with co‐administration of dalcetrapib with ezetimibe (+29.8%) were comparable with those with dalcetrapib alone (+25.6%), while the reduction in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol with co‐administration (−35.9%) was greater than with ezetimibe alone (−20.9%). Dalcetrapib was generally well tolerated when administered alone and when co‐administered with ezetimibe.

CONCLUSION

Co‐administration of dalcetrapib with ezetimibe was not associated with clinically significant changes in pharmacokinetic parameters or tolerability and did not diminish the lipid effects of either drug.
Generating induced pluripotent stem cells from common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) fetal liver cells using defined factors, including Lin28
Authors: Tomioka Ikuo , Maeda Takuji , Shimada Hiroko , Kawai Kenji , Okada Yohei , Igarashi Hiroshi , Oiwa Ryo , Iwasaki Tsuyoshi , Aoki Mikio , Kimura Toru , Shiozawa Seiji , Shinohara Haruka , Suemizu Hiroshi , Sasaki Erika , Okano Hideyuki
Published: July 2010

Although embryonic stem (ES) cell–like induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells have potential therapeutic applications in humans, they are also useful for creating genetically modified human disease models in nonhuman primates. In this study, we generated common marmoset iPS cells from fetal liver cells via the retrovirus‐mediated introduction of six human transcription factors: Oct‐3/4, Sox2, Klf4, c‐Myc, Nanog, and Lin28. Four to five weeks after introduction, several colonies resembling marmoset ES cells were observed and picked for further expansion in ES cell medium. Eight cell lines were established, and validation analyses of the marmoset iPS cells followed. We detected the expression of ES cell–specific surface markers. Reverse transcription‐PCR showed that these iPS cells expressed endogenous Oct‐3/4, Sox2, Klf4, c‐Myc, Nanog and Lin28 genes, whereas all of the transgenes were silenced. Karyotype analysis showed that two of three iPS cell lines retained a normal karyotype after a 2‐month culture. Both embryoid body and teratoma formation showed that marmoset iPS cells had the developmental potential to give rise to differentiated derivatives of all three primary germ layers. In summary, we generated marmoset iPS cells via the transduction of six transcription factors; this provides a powerful preclinical model for studies in regenerative medicine.
Gentrification by Ground Rent Dispossession: The Shadows Cast by Large‐Scale Urban Renewal in Santiago de Chile
Authors: LOPEZ‐MORALES ERNESTO
Published: July 2010

The rent gap theory, a consistent explanation of gentrification in inner‐city spaces, sees a growing disparity between capitalized ground rent (CGR) and potential ground rent (PGR) as a catalyst for large‐scale property reinvestment and thence gentrification. In historical working‐class Santiago's peri‐centre (inner city), not only is there a measurable rent gap, but a state‐subsidized market in high‐density urban renewal based on the accumulation of increased CGR by a few large‐scale developers. This article focuses on a low‐income municipality of Santiago, which has a local government that aims to attract this market via the liberalization of its local building regulations (seeking to increase the PGR), and deliberate underperformance in a national programme for housing upgrading (seeking to devalue the CGR in spaces previously targeted for renewal). It is observed how, in this city, two forms of ground rent exist, a lower one capitalized by current owner‐occupiers (CGR‐1) and a higher one capitalized by the market agents of renewal (CGR‐2). This is seen as a form of social dispossession of the ground rent and a necessary condition for gentrification. It is concluded that the state‐led strategy of urban renewal in Santiago needs to be refocused on more participative forms of distribution of the rent gap.

Resumé

D'après la théorie du différentiel de loyer, qui éclaire de façon cohérente la gentrification des espaces centraux des villes, l'écart grandissant entre loyer foncier capitalisé (CGR) et loyer foncier potentiel (PGR) constitue un catalyseur de réinvestissement immobilier à grande échelle, donc de gentrification. Dans le péricentre historique et ouvrier de Santiago du Chili, il se crée non seulement un écart de prix mesurable, mais aussi un marché subventionné par l'État portant sur la rénovation de quartiers urbains à forte densité et fondé sur l'accumulation des CGR (croissants) par quelques grands promoteurs. L'article s'intéresse à une municipalité défavorisée de Santiago dont le gouvernement s'efforce d'attirer ce marché en libéralisant ses réglementations locales sur la construction (afin d'augmenter le PGR) et en produisant délibérément des résultats insuffisants dans le cadre d'un programme national d'amélioration des logements (afin de déprécier le CGR dans les espaces ciblés préalablement pour rénovation). Dans cette ville, on peut observer deux types de loyer foncier, un type inférieur capitalisé par les propriétaires occupants actuels (CGR‐1) et un type supérieur capitalisé par les agents opérant sur le marché de la rénovation (CGR‐2). La situation est considérée comme une forme de dépossession sociale du loyer foncier, et comme une condition nécessaire à la gentrification. Pour conclure, la stratégie de rénovation urbaine que l'État applique à Santiago doit être recentrée sur des formes plus participatives de répartition du différentiel de loyer.
Audit of severe acute maternal morbidity describing reasons for transfer and potential preventability of admissions to ICU
Authors: LAWTON Beverley A. , WILSON Leona F , DINSDALE Richard A. , ROSE Sally B. , BROWN Selina A. , TAIT John , COLES Carolyn L , MCCAW Amanda
Published: July 2010

Background:  Maternal mortality is a rare event in the developed world. Assessment of severe acute maternal morbidity (SAMM) is therefore an appropriate measure of the quality of maternity care.

Aims:  The aim of the study was to conduct a retrospective audit of SAMM cases (pregnant women admitted to a New Zealand Intensive Care Unit) to describe clinical, socio‐demographic characteristics, pregnancy outcomes and preventability.

Methods:  Severe acute maternal morbidity cases were reviewed by a multidisciplinary panel to determine reasons for admission to ICU, to classify organ‐system dysfunction and to determine whether the SAMM case was preventable or not. Inclusion criteria were: admission to ICU between 2005 and 2007 during pregnancy or within 42 days of delivery.

Results:  Twenty‐nine SAMM cases were reviewed, of which 10 (35%) were deemed preventable. The most common reasons for transfer to ICU were: the need for invasive vascular monitoring, hypotension and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The most frequent types of preventable events were: inadequate diagnosis/recognition of high‐risk status, inappropriate treatment, communication problems and inadequate documentation. All five SAMM cases of septicaemia were deemed preventable. Of the ten preventable cases, three were Maori (50% of the Maori in total audit), four were Pacific (67% of the Pacific in total audit) and three were women of ‘other’ ethnicities (17.6%, 3 of 17 in the audit).

Conclusions:  An audit of SAMM cases describing reasons for transfer to ICU and preventability is feasible. We recommend that a prospective national SAMM audit process be introduced in New Zealand as a quality of care measure.
Brain‐Derived Neurotrophic Factor Enhances Bcl‐xL Expression Through Protein Kinase Casein Kinase 2‐Activated and Nuclear Factor Kappa B‐Mediated Pathway in Rat Hippocampus
Authors: Chao Chih C. , Ma Yun L. , Lee Eminy H.Y.
Published: July 2010

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was shown to produce its neuroprotective effect through extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) and phosphatidylinositol‐3 kinase (PI3‐K) signaling. But whether other pathways also mediate the neuroprotective effect of BDNF is less known. In this study, we found that direct administration of BDNF to rat hippocampal CA1 area dose‐dependently increased the mRNA and protein levels of Bcl‐xL. BDNF also increased protein kinase casein kinase II (CK2) activity and NF‐κB phosphorylation at Ser529 dose‐dependently. Further, transfection of the wild‐type CK2α DNA to CA1 neurons increased nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) phosphorylation and Bcl‐xL mRNA expression, whereas transfection of CK2α156A, the catalytically inactive mutant of CK2α, decreased these measures. Moreover, transfection of CK2α small interfering RNA (siRNA) blocked the enhancing effect of BDNF on NF‐κB phosphorylation and Bcl‐xL expression. These results were further confirmed by treatment of 4,5,6,7‐tetrabromobenzotriazole (TBB), a specific CK2 inhibitor. Transfection of NF‐κBS529A, the dominant negative mutant of NF‐κB, prevented the enhancing effect of BDNF on Bcl‐xL expression. More importantly, BDNF activation of CK2 is not affected by co‐administration of the ERK1/2 inhibitor, PD98059, and the PI3‐K inhibitor, LY294002. These results demonstrate a novel BDNF signaling pathway and provide an alternative therapeutic strategy for the protective effect of BDNF on hippocampal neurons in vivo.
Inflammatory bowel disease: Established and evolving considerations on its etiopathogenesis and therapy
Authors: SCHIRBEL Anja , FIOCCHI Claudio
Published: July 2010

Modern studies of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathogenesis have been pursued for about four decades, a period of time where the pace of progress has been steadily increasing. This progress has occurred in parallel with and is largely due to developments in multiple basic scientific disciplines that range from population and social studies, genetics, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, cellular and molecular biology, and DNA engineering. From this cumulative and constantly expanding knowledge base the fundamental pillars of IBD pathogenesis appear to have been identified and consolidated during the last couple of decades. Presently there is a general consensus among basic IBD investigators that both Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are the result of the combined effects of four basic components: global changes in the environment, the input of multiple genetic variations, alterations in the intestinal microbiota, and aberrations of innate and adaptive immune responses. There is also agreement on the conclusion that none of these four components can by itself trigger or maintain intestinal inflammation. A combination of various factors, and most likely of all four factors, is probably needed to bring about CD or UC in individual patients, but each patient or set of patients seems to have a different combination of alterations leading to the disease. This would imply that different causes and diverse mechanisms underlie IBD, and this could also explain why every patient displays his or her own clinical manifestations and a personalized response to therapy, and requires tailored approaches with different medications. While we are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of this individual variability, we have only a superficial notion of the reasons why this occurs, as hinted by the uniqueness of the genetic background and of the gut flora in each person. So, we are apparently facing the paradox of having to deal with the tremendous complexity of the mechanisms responsible for chronic intestinal inflammation in the setting of each patient's individuality in the response to this biological complexity. This obviously poses considerable challenges to reaching a full understanding of IBD pathogenesis, but being aware of the difficulties is the first step in finding answers to them.
Risk factors for drug resistance in pulmonary tuberculosis inpatients
Authors: Yang Xiaoyan , Li Youping , Wen Xianmin , Wu Guihui , Li Xi
Published: July 2010

Objective To analyze risk factors for drug resistance in pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) inpatients.

Methods Medical records of PTB inpatients in Chengdu Tuberculosis Hospital (CTH) from 2005 to 2007 were investigated retrospectively. A logistic regression model was used to analyze data.

Results A total of 330 records were included in the analysis. A history of tuberculosis treatment was associated with drug resistance with odds ratio (OR) 16.79 and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) [10.14, 27.80] for all patients. Among new patients, the significant risk factor was duration of illness (OR 0.27, 95% CI [0.16, 0.46]), and for previously treated patients, risk factors included age (OR 0.96, 95% CI [0.93, 0.99]), improper initial chemotherapy (OR 3.85, 95% CI [1.59, 10.00]), and improper handling by medical staff (OR 3.44, 95% CI [1.32, 8.96]).

Conclusions A history of drug treatment is associated with drug resistance among PTB inpatients. Initial resistance becomes increasingly serious till 2007. To minimize the development of resistance, more personalized treatment and supervision should be used, and better training for medical staff is needed.
Wafer-scale nanopatterning using electrodeposition
Authors: Lee Leung Kway , Ku Pei-Cheng
Published: July 2010

This work proposed and demonstrated a simple yet effective technique that can achieve wafer-scale nanopatterning using electrodeposition and standard microlithographic tools. The proposed technique shrinks the microscale features in the metal layer to the nanoscale and subsequently uses the same metal layer as the etch mask for pattern transfer. As a proof of concept, an array of trenches and holes with initial dimensions of around 700 nm over a 1×1 cm2 wafer area was used to achieve sub-100 nm features in the underlying substrate after the pattern transfer. In addition to the electrodeposition process, only standard i-line lithography, metal deposition and lift-off, and reactive ion etching were used in the experiment. The proposed technique can be extended to the patterning of a general nanoscale pattern except when the pattern density exceeds the resolution limit of the microlithographic tool. In this article, the authors also discuss the line-edge roughness, registration error, and pattern-dependent shrinking rate in the electrodeposition nanopatterning process. The results can be applied to various metallic and semiconducting surfaces and are expected to be advantageous in the fabrication of many nanoscale devices including zero-mode waveguides and nanocantilevers.
USING ECONOMIC ANALYSIS TO PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE: AN EXAMPLE INVOLVING BUSINESS INCOME TRUSTS
Authors: GILLEN MARK
Published: July 2010

Economic analysis of law has been used for policy analysis and to explain legal doctrine. It can also be used by a lawyer in providing a legal opinion. This paper provides an example of how economic analysis can be used in giving a legal opinion. The example is an opinion on the likelihood that investors would be held personally liable for debts arising in the conduct of businesses carried on through a business income trust. Since there is no direct economic analysis of this question in the existing literature, the paper uses the economic analysis of the limited liability of corporations. It uses this analysis because it focuses on the same policy question of whether investors should be made personally liable for debts incurred in the carrying on of a business. The paper reviews the economic analysis of the limited liability of corporations. It then considers how this analysis may extend to business trusts and to business income trusts.
NUMBER-PROJECTED BETA TRANSITION PROBABILITIES WITHIN A NEUTRON–PROTON PAIRING FRAMEWORK
Authors: KERROUCHI S. , ALLAL N. H. , FELLAH M. , DOUICI M.
Published: July 2010

Particle-number fluctuations effects on the beta transition probabilities are studied in the neutron–proton pairing framework. The Hamiltonian of the system has been considered in its most general form and has been diagonalized by means of the linearization method. However, since the generalized Bogoliubov–Valatin transformation obtained in this way leads to a quasi-particle Hamiltonian which is still nondiagonal, a rediagonalization has been performed. The corresponding wave functions have been projected on both the good neutron and proton numbers using a recently proposed method. Expressions of the beta transition probabilities which strictly conserve the particle-number have then been established. As a first step, the model has been numerically tested within the framework of the schematic one-level model. As a second step, nuclei such as N = Z has been studied using the single-particle energies and eigenstates of the Woods–Saxon deformed mean field. It has thus been shown the necessity of: (i) including the isovector pairing correlations, (ii) performing a rediagonalization of the Hamiltonian, (iii) performing a particle-number projection, (iv) carefully choice the pairing-strength values, when calculating the transition probabilities.
ANY l-STATE ANALYTICAL SOLUTIONS OF THE KLEIN–GORDON EQUATION FOR THE WOODS–SAXON POTENTIAL
Authors: BADALOV V. H. , AHMADOV H. I. , BADALOV S. V.
Published: July 2010

The radial part of the Klein–Gordon equation for the Woods–Saxon potential is solved. In our calculations, we have applied the Nikiforov–Uvarov method by using the Pekeris approximation to the centrifugal potential for any l-states. The exact bound state energy eigenvalues and the corresponding eigenfunctions are obtained on the various values of the quantum numbers n and l. The nonrelativistic limit of the bound state energy spectrum was also found.
Responses in Mantle Cell Lymphoma Cells to SNS-032 Depend on the Biological Context of Each Cell Line
Authors: Chen Rong , Chubb Sherri , Cheng Tiewei , Hawtin Rachael E. , Gandhi Varsha , Plunkett William
Published: July 2010

SNS-032 is a potent inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases (Cdk) 2, 7, and 9 that regulate the cell cycle and transcription. Our studies in indolent primary chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells showed that SNS-032 inhibited transcription, diminished the antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1, and induced apoptosis. The present study focuses on evaluating this compound in four proliferating mantle cell lymphoma lines (Jeko-1, Granta 519, Mino, and SP-53). Consistent with its action against Cdk9 and Cdk7, SNS-032 inhibited the phosphorylation of RNA pol II in all four lines and blocked RNA synthesis. The transcripts and protein levels of short-lived proteins decreased, including cyclin D1 and Mcl-1. Cell growth was inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner in all lines. Apoptosis was induced in JeKo-1, Mino, and SP-53 cells without disrupting cell cycle distribution. However, apoptosis was limited in Granta cells; rather, there was a significant reduction of clonogenic survival. Small interfering RNA was used to specifically knock down Mcl-1 and cyclin D1 in JeKo-1 and Granta cells. Knocking down Mcl-1 induced significant apoptosis in Jeko-1 cells but not Granta cells. Reducing cyclin D1, rather than Mcl-1, was associated with loss of clonogenic survival in Granta cells. Thus, these results indicated that mantle cell lymphoma cell lines have distinct mechanisms sustaining their survival, and the mechanism of action of SNS-032 is dependent on the biological context of an individual line. Cancer Res; 70(16); 6587–97. ©2010 AACR.
MicroRNAs and Metastasis: Little RNAs Go a Long Way
Authors: Dykxhoorn Derek M.
Published: July 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNA) are key regulators of many important biological processes from insulin secretion and fat metabolism to cellular proliferation and differentiation. Given the critical role that these small regulatory RNAs play in biology, it is not surprising that the alteration of miRNA expression patterns can have pathogenic consequences. The association between miRNA dysregulation and pathogenesis has been most widely studied in tumorigenesis, and a large number of miRNAs have been identified whose expression levels are changed in various tumor types. Although the role that miRNAs play in the development of metastasis is more poorly defined, recent studies have begun to identify miRNAs that can regulate key steps in the metastatic cascade. This review focuses on two emerging stories, the regulation of the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition by members of the miR-200 family, and the pleiotropic nature of the metastasis suppressor miR-31. Cancer Res; 70(16); 6401–6. ©2010 AACR.
Family Environment and Pediatric Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Ogburn Kelin M. , Sanches Marsal , Williamson Douglas E. , Caetano Sheila C. , Olvera Rene L. , Pliszka Steven , Hatch John P. , Soares Jair C.
Published: July 2010

Background: The risks for depression broadly include biological and environmental factors. Furthermore, having a family member suffering from major depression is also likely to have consequences for the family environment. Further research aimed at understanding the effects of having a child with major depression on family interaction patterns is warranted. Methods: We studied 31 families with an 8- to 17-year-old child (mean age ± SD = 12.9 ± 2.7 years) who met the DSM-IV criteria for major depressive disorder (MDD) and 34 families with no mentally ill children (mean age ± SD = 12.6 ± 2.9 years) or parents. Children and their parents were assessed with the K-SADS-PL (Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia – Present and Lifetime Version) interview. Parents completed the Moos Family Environment Scale (FES) to assess their perceptions of current family functioning. Data were analyzed using the nonparametric Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test. Results: Families of MDD children showed significantly different patterns of family functioning on FES subscales representing relationships and personal growth dimensions. The families with MDD children showed higher levels of conflict (p < 0.001) and lower levels of cohesion (p < 0.001), expressiveness (p = 0.003) and active-recreational orientation (p = 0.02) compared to the families without mentally ill children. Conclusion: Families with MDD children show a lower degree of commitment, provide less support to one another, provide less encouragement to express feelings and have more conflicts compared to families with no mentally ill children or parents. Interventions aimed at improving family dynamics may be beneficial to MDD children and their families.
Do Major Cardiovascular Outcomes in Patients With Stable Ischemic Heart Disease in the Clinical Outcomes Utilizing Revascularization and Aggressive Drug Evaluation Trial Differ by Healthcare System?
Authors: Chaitman Bernard R. , Hartigan Pamela M. , Booth David C. , Teo Koon K. , Mancini G.B. John , Kostuk William J. , Spertus John A. , Maron David J. , Dada Marcin , O'Rourke Robert A. , Weintraub William S. , Berman Daniel S. , Shaw Leslee J. , Boden William E. ,   on behalf of the Clinical Outcomes Utilizing Revascularization and Aggressive Drug Evaluation (COURAGE) Trial Investigators
Published: July 2010

Background—

The Clinical Outcomes Utilizing Revascularization and Aggressive Drug Evaluation (COURAGE) trial enrolled patients from 3 distinct healthcare systems (HCSs) in North America. The primary aim of this study was to determine whether there is a treatment difference in cardiovascular outcomes by HCS.

Methods and Results—

The study population included 968 patients from the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), 386 from the US non-VA, and 931 from Canada with different comorbidities and prognoses. The primary outcome was all-cause mortality or nonfatal myocardial infarction (MI) during the median 4.6-year follow-up. Baseline demographics were similar between percutaneous coronary intervention and optimal medical therapy treatment groups within each HCS. After follow-up, the primary end point of total mortality and nonfatal MI was not statistically significant between percutaneous coronary intervention and optimal medical therapy, regardless of HCS: VA, 22.3% versus 21.9% (hazard ratio, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.80–1.38;
P
=0.95); US non-VA, 15.8% versus 21.8% (hazard ratio, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.43–1.12;
P
=0.24); Canadian HCS, 17.3% versus 13.5% (hazard ratio, 1.30; 95% CI, 0.93–1.83;
P
=0.17). The interaction between HCSs and treatment was not statistically significant. Long-term mortality was significantly higher in the VA system as a result of significantly greater comorbidity and worse left ventricular function.

Conclusions—

In the COURAGE trial, addition of percutaneous coronary intervention to optimal medical therapy did not improve 5-year survival or reduce MI or other major adverse cardiovascular events regardless of whether patients were Canadian or American or US veterans or nonveterans. Outcome differences were largely explained by differences in baseline characteristics known to affect long-term prognosis.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT00007657.
Optimal design of superfine polyamide fabric by electrostatic flocking technology
Authors: Lifang Liu  , Hao Xie  , Longdi Cheng  , Jianyong Yu  , Shuzhen Yang
Published: July 2010

The use of superfine fibers as piles to produce flocked fabrics is underreported despite their excellent properties. Therefore, a superfine polyamide fiber was used for piles to produce flocked fabric in this study, and a full factorial design was employed with three design factors at three levels to optimize the process parameters in terms of flocking density. The flock density is found, experimentally, to increase with the decrease of flocking distance and the increase of field strength and flocking time. A ternary linear equation is also established in this study based upon the regression analysis on experimental results and verified by F-test showing that it has remarkable significance. Comparison with experimental values shows that the regression equation possesses high accuracy. The optimum parameters are empirically and experimentally determined as: flocking distance of 7 cm, field strength of 60 kV, and flocking time of 10 s.
Clinical Efficacy and Pharmacokinetics of Antimony in Cutaneous Leishmaniasis Patients Treated With Sodium Stibogluconate
Authors: Zaghloul Iman Y. , Radwan Mahasen A. , Al Jaser May H. , Al Issa Ramadan
Published: July 2010

The efficacy and pharmacokinetics of antimony were explored in 12 young male patients with cutaneous leishmaniasis following intramuscular administration of sodium stibogluconate equivalent to 600 mg of antimony (Sb). Patients' cure rate was evaluated up to 6 weeks after treatment. Blood samples were collected at different time periods on the first and last days of a 3‐week treatment. Twenty‐four‐hour urine samples were also collected on both occasions for the estimation of renal clearance (CLr). The blood concentrations of the Sb time profile were best described by a 2‐compartment model with a first‐order absorption rate. The mean absorption half‐life was 0.21 ± 0.023 and 0.36 ± 0.18 hours for the first and last doses, respectively. A rapid distribution phase was followed by a slower elimination phase of a half‐life of 9.4 ± 1.9 and 9.69 ± 2.3 hours for both days, respectively. An accumulation index of 2.33 was calculated. The fraction of dose excreted in urine was 0.386 ± 0.11 and 0.326 ± 0.05 on both occasions, respectively. The mean CLr was 4.88 ± 1.13 and 4.58 ± 1.05 L/h. In the current study, all of the patients were completely healed by week 6 after the end of treatment, as judged by the treating physician. In conclusion, the blood profile of antimony seems to be multicompartmental in nature.
Stigmatization as a Social Control Mechanism for Persons Living with HIV and AIDS
Authors: Mill Judy E. , Edwards Nancy , Jackson Randy C. , MacLean Lynne , Chaw-Kant Jean
Published: July 2010

Stigmatization contributes to inequity by marginalizing persons living with HIV and AIDS (PHAs). In this study we examined the stigmatizing practices in health care settings from the perspectives of PHAs and health care providers (HCPs). A qualitative design, using a participatory action research approach, was used. Interviews and focus groups were completed with 16 aboriginal and 17 nonaboriginal individuals living with HIV (APHAs and PHAs) and 27 HCPs in Ottawa and Edmonton, Canada. We present findings to support the premise that stigmatization can be used as a social control mechanism with PHAs. Participants described both active and passive social control mechanisms: shunning and ostracizing, labeling, and disempowering health care practices. Forgiving behavior, balancing disclosure, practicing universal precautions, bending the rules, shifting services, and reducing labeling were strategies to manage, resist, and mitigate social control. The findings illustrate the urgent need for multilevel interventions to manage, resist, and mitigate stigma.
Private Property Owners and the Remaking of Brownfields
Authors: Hollander Justin
Published: July 2010

Because owners of brownfield sites are primarily interested in avoiding liability, they are rarely players in reusing planning of their properties. However, in some cases, private companies have taken a leadership role in reuse planning for their moribund sites. This article explores these unique examples of corporate responsibility through surveys of federal and state brownfields officials in the United States and in-depth case studies of reuse projects in three U.S. cities. The findings suggest that firms appear to be motivated for promoting the reuse of their brownfields in order to maintain a reputation in their community, establish an economic precedent for successful reuse, maintain control over potential future environmental liabilities, and as a manifestation of corporate social responsibility. Implication for public works managers and planners include a need to leverage third party liability rules to encourage greater responsibility and leadership by firms in the reuse of their contaminated sites.
‘Just Waiting’: The Nature and Effect of Uncertainty on Young People in Remand Custody in Ireland
Authors: Freeman Sinead , Seymour Mairead
Published: July 2010

This article examines the feelings of uncertainty experienced by 62 young people, aged 16—21, detained on remand in Ireland. It argues that this experience of uncertainty is an important phenomenon since it can lessen their ability both to cope while in custody and to progress after release. While it is acknowledged that the nature of remand custody will always involve some uncertainty, it is argued that greater compliance with international standards for treating young people deprived of their liberty would reduce the damaging effects of their experience of uncertainty.
Antimicrobial Properties of Alginate-Chitosan (Alchite) Fibers Developed for Wound Care Applications
Authors: Miraftab Mohsen , Barnabas John , Kennedy John F. , Masood Rashid
Published: July 2010

Alginate fibers are well established as primary wound dressings, given their well-known sodium/calcium ion exchange ability at the wound surface coupled with their good liquid absorption characteristics. Chitosan, the deacetylated form of chitin is also well known for its hemostatic, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties. Unique combination of these polysaccharides to form a new generic fiber, known as alchite fibers, has been developed in an earlier work. This article reports on the antimicrobial properties of a range of alchite fibers produced from four different types of hydrolyzed chitosans and two brands of sodium alginate. The article discusses different methods of antimicrobial detection including: submerged fiber technique, zone of inhibition, dilution plating, and spectrophotometric analysis at 600 nm when tested against common skin microflora, i.e., Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Micrococcus luteus. This study concludes that while most of the alchite fiber samples have certain degree of antimicrobial properties, some have higher antimicrobial properties than others. The study has also shown that quantitative presence of chitosan within an alchite fiber may not necessarily be the reason for good antimicrobial properties. Factors such as chitosan source, degree of deacetylation, molecular weight, and action of hydrolysis may also affect antimicrobial properties. These findings are most important in endorsing the development of the alchite fibers for wound dressings.
AICAR induces apoptosis independently of AMPK and p53 through up-regulation of the BH3-only proteins BIM and NOXA in chronic lymphocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Santidrián Antonio F. , González-Gironès Diana M. , Iglesias-Serret Daniel , Coll-Mulet Llorenç , Cosialls Ana M. , de Frias Mercè , Campàs Clara , González-Barca Eva , Alonso Esther , Labi Verena , Viollet Benoit , Benito Adalberto , Pons Gabriel , Villunger Andreas , Gil Joan
Published: July 2010

5-Aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide riboside or acadesine (AICAR) induces apoptosis in chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) cells. A clinical study of AICAR is currently being performed in patients with this disease. Here, we have analyzed the mechanisms involved in AICAR-induced apoptosis in CLL cells in which it activates its only well-known molecular target, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK). However, AMPK activation with phenformin or A-769662 failed to induce apoptosis in CLL cells and AICAR also potently induced apoptosis in B lymphocytes from Ampkα1−/− mice, demonstrating an AMPK-independent mechanism of cell death. Importantly, AICAR induced apoptosis irrespective of the tumor suppressor TP53 or ataxia telangiectasia mutated (ATM) status via induction of the mitochondrial pathway. Apoptosis was preceded by an increase in mRNA and protein levels of proapoptotic BCL-2 family proteins of the BH3-only subgroup, including BIM, NOXA, and PUMA in CLL cells. Strikingly, B lymphocytes from Noxa−/− or Bim−/− mice were partially protected from the cytotoxic effects of AICAR. Consistently, B cells from Noxa−/−/Bim−/− mice resisted induction of apoptosis by AICAR as potently as B lymphocytes overexpressing transgenic BCL-2. These findings support the notion that AICAR is an interesting alternative therapeutic option for CLL patients with impaired p53 function and resistance to conventional chemotherapy.
A binuclear oxo-bridged iron(III) complex: structure of {(μ-oxo)-bis[cis-chloro-bis(2,2′-bipyridyl)iron(III)]} dichloride · 0.7 n-amyl alcohol solvate
Authors: Choudhury S. R. , Traquair J. A. , Vittal J. J.
Published: July 2010

The title compound [(

A crystallographic 2-fold symmetry is present in the cation, in which the bridging oxygen atom lies on the 2-fold axis and bonded to two Fe atoms. Each iron(III) center has a distorted octahedral geometry with the bpy ligands attached in
In Reply
Authors: Kwitkowski Virginia E. , Prowell Tatiana M. , Ibrahim Amna , Farrell Ann T. , Justice Robert , Sun Mitchell Shan , Sridhara Rajeshwari , Pazdur Richard
Published: July 2010

Author response to the letter of Basso et al.
Spring Small Grain Anatomical Response to Top Growth Clipping1
Authors: Thakur C. , Shands H. L. , Evans R. I.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Stems of top growth clipped field plants of 1 wheat, 3 oats, and 3 barley varieties had vascular bundles more closely arranged and smaller in diameter than those of undipped plants. High temperature (78 F.) reduced stele diameters, number of xylem strands and number of metaxylem vessels. No single causal factor for lodging was isolated although several associations were observed.
Effect of Soil Type, Fertilization, and Stage of Growth on Yield, Chemical Composition, and Biological Value of Ladino Clover (Trifolium repens L.) and Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)1
Authors: Wedin W. F. , Burger A. W. , Ahlgren H. L.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

In a 4‐year Wisconsin study, greatest yields resulted on Miami silt loam and from cutting at intermediate growth stage. Yield increases from fertilization were greatest on soil types of lower productivity field rating. Highest contents of P, K and N resulted in forage harvested on soil types of medium to high ratings, and from pasture stage harvests. Contents of P and K were increased, Ca decreased, and N unchanged by fertilization. Forage nutritive value measured in guinea pig feeding trials compared closely to field ratings of the soil types.
Cold Resistance of Parent Varieties, F2 Populations, and F3 Lines of 20 Oat Crosses1
Authors: Amirshahi M. C. , Patterson Fred L.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Average survivals in lines of crosses among winterhardy, intermediate‐hardy, and spring oat varieties suggest that cold resistance was governed by genes having cumulative effect without important genie interactions. Some crosses showed promise as a source of combinations with more hardiness than the very winter‐hardy variety Wintok.
Nitrogen Fertilizer for Corn Production on an Irrigated Chestnut Soil1
Authors: Pumphrey F. V. , Harris Lionel
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Studies of irrigated corn on old rotation plots on very fine sandy loam had the following general results: In year of N fertilizer application, increased yields were influenced by season and soil productivity as well as by time and rate of application. Time of application had little influence on yield on low productivity soil. Marked yield increases from residual N were also influenced by the above factors. Fertilizer N was more efficient during year of application when applied before plowing, at planting time, or side‐dressed when corn was 6 to 12 in. high than when side‐dressed when corn was 20 to 36 in. high. Yield increases from residual nitrogen increased with delay in time of application.
Cotton Pollen Dispersal by Insects1
Authors: Simpson D. M. , Duncan E. N.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Natural crossing averaged 47% at all sampling points in Tennessee experiments. A rapid loss and dilution of original pollen load was noted as the radius of insect activity increased. The pattern of distribution was found to be determined by the insect's foraging habits, rendering cotton a more effective barrier crop than equivalent areas of non‐cotton.
Nutrient Content of Corn as Related to Fertilizer Application and Soil Fertility1
Authors: Ellis B. G. , Knauss C. J. , Smith F. W.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Foliar analyses of corn leaves were made in conjunction with Kansas fertilizer experiments. A close relationship was found between content of exchangeable K in soil and leaf content of K. Definite establishment of minimum P content was not possible. Minimum N content for maximum yield varied with time of sampling, ranging from as much as 3.0% when corn was 3 feet high to only 1.9% at early ear stage. Addition of K to soils low in exchangeable K caused decreases in Mg content of leaves. Calcium content did not change markedly as a result of fertilizer application.
Sources of Wheat Stem Rust Resistance1
Authors: Watson I. A. , Stewart Donald M.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Seedlings of Khapstein, a variety of T. vulgare resulting from the cross Steinwedel × Khapli emmer, were resistant to most isolates of the prevalent races of stem rust in North America used in this study. Within certain races or race groups, subraces indistinguishable on Khapli could be separated on the basis of their reaction on Khapstein.

Kenya 117A (C.I. 12568) and Kenya 117A (W 1347) were dissimilar in their reactions to many of these isolates of stem rust. Kenya 117A (C.I. 12568) differentiated biotypes or subraces of races 11‐32 group, 15B, 17‐29 group, and 38. Kenya 117A (W 1347) was not susceptible to any of the isolates used in these tests but its stem rust resistance was not equal to that of Kenya Farmer.
The Effect of Source, Rate and Time of Nitrogen Application Upon the Yields, Vegetative Composition and Crude Protein Content of Native Flood‐Meadow Hay in Eastern Oregon1
Authors: Cooper Clee S.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Nitrogen increased yields of native flood‐meadow hay. A decrease in clover composition by weight with nitrogen fertilization was accompanied by a decrease in crude protein content of hay. Fall and spring applications of N were equally effective.
Cytogenetics of Interspecific Hybrids in the Bromopsis Section of Bromus. I. Diploid and Tetraploid Hybrids1
Authors: Barnett F. L.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Diploid hybrids in the Bromopsis section of Bromus were, in general, morphologically intermediate, but instances of dominance and heterosis occurred. F1 tetraploid hybrids between B. ciliatus and B. frondosus segregated into dwarf, semi‐dwarf, and normal types. Diploid hybrids showed mean bivalent frequencies of 6.50 to 6.79 per MI cell and little irregularity in AI and quartet stages. Mean bivalent frequencies of 12.33 to 12.81 and moderate frequencies of univalents, trivalents, and quadrivalents occurred in MI cells of F1 tetraploid hybrids. Diploid hybrids were highly sterile, but showed slight fertility as seed parents in backcrosses. Tetraploid hybrids exhibited low fertility under open‐pollination.
Winter Oats Extended Northward by Breeding and Testing1
Authors: Coffman Franklin A.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

The recent expansion of winter oats has resulted from the development of more disease resistance in the South and more hardiness for northern varieties. Hardiness has been combined with disease resistance. With increased winter resistance oat hardiness nurseries have been shifted northward. Survivals of 39 of 70 entries tested from 1952–56 exceeded Winter Turf, considered the most hardy variety 30 years ago. New York Selection equalled Wintok in hardiness. Cimarron is the first hardy, upright growing oat suitable for pasture yet found. Some new winter oats carry genes for hardiness derived from spring varieties.
An Analysis of Foundation Seed Programs1
Authors: Worzella W. W. , Nargaard U. J.
Published: July 2010

Sypnosis

States agree on many basic principles involving foundation seed programs but no uniform system prevails. In fact, there are wide differences of opinions as to how the programs should operate. It is pointed out that administrative policies to be achieved must, if they are to be successfully implemented, be supported by program principles. An analysis, therefore, of principles that should govern important program phases is made.
Effect of Drying Upon Availability of Potassium in Parsons Silt Loam Surface Soil and Subsoil1
Authors: Scott T. W. , Smith F. W.
Published: July 2010

Synopsis

Drying of both surface and subsoil approximately doubled exchangeable potassium content. Extensive cropping of soils not fertilized with KCI apparently reduced exchangeable potassium to near minimum levels. However, plant uptake of potassium always was greater from previously dried soil than from that kept continuously moist. A single unit of exchangeable potassium in continuously moistened soil was from 20 to 26% more available than the same unit in dried soil. Similarly a single unit in surface soil appeared to be from 10 to 16% more available than a single unit in subsoil.