bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High antitumor activity of RLI, an interleukin-15 (IL-15)–IL-15 receptor α fusion protein, in metastatic melanoma and colorectal cancer
Authors: Bessard Anne , Solé Véronique , Bouchaud Grégory , Quéméner Agnès , Jacques Yannick
Published: September 2009

Interleukin (IL)-15 has an important role in tumor immunosurveillance and has a contemplated use in tumor immunotherapy. We have previously engineered the fusion protein RLI, composed of the NH2-terminal (amino acids 1–77, sushi+) domain of IL-15 receptor α coupled via a linker to IL-15, and shown that it displayed far better efficacy than IL-15 in vitro. In this report, we investigated in vivo whether RLI would be a better alternative than IL-15 and IL-2 for cancer treatment using two distinct animal models. B16F10 mouse melanoma cells were injected in C57BL/6 mice either i.v. or intrasplenically for lung or liver metastasis, respectively. HCT-116 human colorectal cancer cells were injected in the cecum of nude mice. We show that RLI has a higher efficiency than IL-15 or IL-2 to reduce lung and liver metastasis and enhance survival in the mouse B16F10 melanoma model, a result that was associated with a higher half-life in vivo. We also found that the antitumoral effect of RLI was completely abolished by in vivo depletion of natural killer cells using anti-asialoGM1 antibody. Moreover, RLI was also efficient to reduce by 50% tumor growth and the progression of metastasis of human colon carcinoma cells in an orthotopic nude mouse model. The fusion protein RLI has revealed strong anticancer effect in two different cancer models overcoming the limited effect of IL-15 by increasing its bioavailability and efficiency. These findings hold significant importance for the use of RLI as a potential adjuvant/therapeutic. [Mol Cancer Ther 2009;8(9):2736–45]
Ubiquitin-Conjugating Enzyme UBE2Q2 Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Is Down-Regulated in Recurrent Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Maeda Hiroyuki , Miyajima Naoto , Kano Satoshi , Tsukiyama Tadasuke , Okumura Fumihiko , Fukuda Satoshi , Hatakeyama Shigetsugu
Published: September 2009

The ubiquitin-proteasome system has a crucial role in maintaining and regulating cellular homeostasis including carcinogenesis. UBE2Q2, also designated Ubci, is one of the ubiquitin-conjugating enzymes (E2), and it has been reported that mRNA of UBE2Q2 is highly expressed in human head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, particularly hypopharyngeal carcinoma. However, the involvement of UBE2Q2 in carcinogenesis has not been fully elucidated. Most cases of head and neck carcinoma are treated with cis-diamminedichloroplatinum (II; CDDP) or docetaxel, which are the most effective chemotherapeutic agents against squamous cell carcinomas. Nevertheless, some head and neck cancers develop resistance to these drugs, although the causes and mechanisms remain unknown. In this study, we found high expression levels of UBE2Q2 in human head and neck carcinoma cell lines and cancer tissues by using an anti-UBE2Q2 antibody at the protein level. We also found that the expression level of UBE2Q2 is decreased in cell lines and cancer tissues that have resistance to CDDP or docetaxel and in cancer tissues treated with CDDP or docetaxel. Furthermore, we found that overexpression of UBE2Q2 affects cell proliferation and anchorage-independent cell growth. These findings suggest that UBE2Q2 is a novel oncosuppressor that inhibits tumor growth and is related to the resistance to anticarcinoma agents and that UBE2Q2 likely functions as a novel diagnostic tool and a potentially therapeutic target for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. (Mol Cancer Res 2009;7(9):1553–62)
Mortality and Readmission for Patients With Heart Failure Among
U.S. News & World Report
’s Top Heart Hospitals
Authors: Mulvey Gregory K. , Wang Yun , Lin Zhenqiu , Wang Oliver J. , Chen Jersey , Keenan Patricia S. , Drye Elizabeth E. , Rathore Saif S. , Normand Sharon-Lise T. , Krumholz Harlan M.
Published: September 2009

Background—

The rankings of “America’s Best Hospitals” by
U.S. News & World Report
are influential, but the performance of ranked hospitals in caring for patients with routine cardiac conditions such as heart failure is not known.

Methods and Results—

Using hierarchical regression models based on medical administrative data from the period July 1, 2005, to June 30, 2006, we calculated risk-standardized mortality rates and risk-standardized readmission rates for ranked and nonranked hospitals in the treatment of heart failure. The mortality analysis examined 14 813 patients in 50 ranked hospitals and 409 806 patients in 4761 nonranked hospitals. The readmission analysis included 16 641 patients in 50 ranked hospitals and 458 473 patients in 4627 nonranked hospitals. Mean 30-day risk-standardized mortality rates were lower in ranked versus nonranked hospitals (10.1% versus 11.2%,
P
<0.01), whereas mean 30-day risk-standardized readmission rates were no different between ranked and nonranked hospitals (23.6% versus 23.8%,
P
=0.40). The 30-day risk-standardized mortality rates varied widely for both ranked and nonranked hospitals, ranging from 7.9% to 12.4% for ranked hospitals and from 7.1% to 17.5% for nonranked hospitals. The 30-day risk-standardized readmission rates also spanned a large range, from 18.7% to 29.3% for ranked hospitals and from 19.2% to 29.8% for nonranked hospitals.

Conclusions—

Hospitals ranked by
U.S. News & World Report
as “America’s Best Hospitals” in “Heart & Heart Surgery” are more likely than nonranked hospitals to have a significantly lower than expected 30-day mortality rate, but there was much overlap in performance. For readmission, the rates were similar in ranked and nonranked hospitals.
Syncope While Driving
Authors: Sorajja Dan , Nesbitt Gillian C. , Hodge David O. , Low Phillip A. , Hammill Stephen C. , Gersh Bernard J. , Shen Win-Kuang
Published: September 2009

Background—

The risk of syncope occurring while driving has obvious implications for personal and public safety. We aimed to define the clinical characteristics, causes, and prognosis of syncope while driving.

Methods and Results—

In this case-control study of consecutive patients evaluated for syncope from 1996 through 1998 at an academic medical center, we documented causes, clinical characteristics, and recurrence of syncope while driving. Of 3877 patients identified, 381 (9.8%) had syncope while driving (driving group). Compared with the 3496 patients (90.2%) who did not have syncope while driving, the driving group was younger (
P
=0.01) and had higher percentages of male patients (
P
<0.001) and patients with a history of any cardiovascular disease (
P
=0.01) and stroke (
P
=0.02). Syncope while driving was commonly caused by neurally mediated syncope (37.3%) and cardiac arrhythmias (11.8%). Long-term survival in the driving group was comparable to that of an age- and sex-matched cohort from the Minnesota population (
P
=0.15). Among the driving group, syncope recurred in 72 patients, 35 of whom (48.6%) had recurrence >6 months after the initial evaluation. Recurrences during driving happened in 10 patients in the driving group, 7 of which (70%) were >12 months after the initial evaluation.

Conclusions—

In our study, neurally mediated syncope was the most common type of syncope while driving. The causes of syncope, the late recurrences of syncope (during ≥6 months of follow-up), and the overall low incidence of recurrent syncope while driving provide useful information to supplement current recommendations on driving for these patients.
Prevalence and Variability of Internal Mammary Artery Graft Use in Contemporary Multivessel Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery
Authors: Tabata Minoru , Grab Joshua D. , Khalpey Zain , Edwards Fred H. , O'Brien Sean M. , Cohn Lawrence H. , Bolman R. Morton
Published: September 2009

Background—

Use of an internal mammary artery (IMA) is a well-recognized, nationally endorsed quality indicator for evaluating the process of operative care for coronary artery bypass graft surgery. An objective assessment of the current status of IMA use has not been systematically performed.

Methods and Results—

This cross-sectional observational study analyzed data on 541 368 coronary artery bypass graft surgery procedures reported by 745 hospitals in the Society of Thoracic Surgeons National Cardiac Database from 2002 through 2005. We assessed the current status of IMA use, the association of hospital volume and IMA use, and disparities in IMA use by patient gender and race and by region of hospital location. Rates of using at least 1 IMA and bilateral IMA were 92.4% and 4.0%, with increasing trends over the years. Hospital volume was not significantly associated with IMA use. IMAs were used less frequently in women than men (for at least 1 IMA: odds ratio, 0.62; 95% confidence interval, 0.61 to 0.63; for bilateral IMA: odds ratio, 0.65; 95% confidence interval, 0.63 to 0.68) and less frequently in nonwhite patients than white patients (for at least 1 IMA: odds ratio, 0.84; 95% confidence interval, 0.81 to 0.87; for bilateral IMA: odds ratio, 0.79; 95% confidence interval, 0.75 to 0.83). There were significant differences in frequency of IMA use by hospital region.

Conclusions—

Frequency of IMA use in coronary artery bypass graft surgery is increasing; however, many patients still do not receive the benefits of IMA grafts, and some hospitals have a very low IMA use rate. Hospital volume is not associated with IMA use in coronary artery bypass graft surgery. Analysis of this critical performance measure reveals significant gender and race disparities.
Influence of Altered Blood Rheology on Ventricular-Vascular Response to Exercise
Authors: Sharman James E. , Brown Joseph , Holland David J. , Macdonald Graeme , Kostner Karam , Marwick Thomas H.
Published: September 2009

Blood (or plasma) rheology is related to cardiovascular risk. Mechanisms of this association are unclear but may be partially related to impaired left ventricular (LV) function and increased central blood pressure (BP) during light activity. This study aimed to test these hypotheses. Twenty patients (14 men; aged 61±12 years) with polycythemia rubra vera (n=16) or hemochromatosis (n=4) were studied at rest and during exercise at ≈50% of maximal heart rate before and after venesection (500 mL; volume replaced with saline) to elicit an acute decrease in plasma viscosity at stable BP. Controls (n=20) underwent the same protocol with 25-mL venesection. Central BP and augmentation index were determined by tonometry. Resting LV systolic (peak longitudinal systolic strain rate and strain) and diastolic functions were determined by tissue-Doppler echocardiography. Venesection with blood volume replacement decreased viscosity (1.46±0.10 to 1.41±0.11 centipoise), protein, and hemoglobin (
P
<0.05 for all) and increased strain rate and strain (
P
<0.001 for both) in patients but not in controls (
P
>0.10 for all). There was no change in LV diastolic function (
P
>0.12 for all). Exercise augmentation index in patients was reduced after venesection (24±12% to 17±9%;
P
=0.001) despite no significant change in other BP variables. Hemodynamics (resting or exercise) were not significantly changed in controls. Exercise central systolic BP correlated with triglycerides (
r
=0.59;
P
<0.001). However, neither exercise hemodynamic changes nor LV functional changes correlated with any biochemical changes after venesection (
P
>0.05). We conclude that an acute change in blood rheology improves ventricular-vascular interaction by enhanced LV systolic function and reduced light-exercise central BP.
Development and Validation of Scores on the Distributed Leadership Inventory
Authors: Hulpia Hester , Devos Geert , Rosseel Yves
Published: September 2009

Systematic quantitative research on measuring distributed leadership is scarce. In this study, the Distributed Leadership Inventory (DLI) was developed and evaluated to investigate leadership team characteristics and distribution of leadership functions between formally designed leadership positions in large secondary schools. The DLI was presented to a sample of 2,198 respondents in 46 secondary schools. The input from a first subsample was used to perform exploratory factor analyses; the second subsample was used to verify the factor structure via confirmatory factor analysis. A one-factor structure for the leadership team characteristics (coherent leadership team) and a two-factor structure for the leadership functions (support and supervision) were confirmed. The results of the DLI underpin that leading schools involve multiple individuals, which differs by the type of function.
The Internal Structure of Positive and Negative Affect: A Confirmatory Factor Analysis of the PANAS
Authors: Tuccitto Daniel E. , Giacobbi Peter R. , Leite Walter L.
Published: September 2009

This study tested five confirmatory factor analytic (CFA) models of the Positive Affect Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS) to provide validity evidence based on its internal structure. A sample of 223 club sport athletes indicated their emotions during the past week. Results revealed that an orthogonal two-factor CFA model, specifying error correlations according to Zevon and Tellegen’s mood content categories, provided the best fit to our data. In addition, parameter estimates for this model suggest that PANAS scores are reliable and explain large proportions of item variance. Taken together with previous research, the findings further suggest that the PANAS may be a higher-order measure of affect and includes several consistently problematic items. The authors recommend that affect researchers attempt to improve the PANAS by (a) revising consistently problematic items, (b) adding new items to better capture mood content categories, and (c) providing additional internal structure validity evidence through a diagonally weighted least squares estimation of a second-order PANAS CFA model.
Project DyAdd: Phonological Processing, Reading, Spelling, and Arithmetic in Adults With Dyslexia or ADHD
Authors: Laasonen Marja , Lehtinen Maisa , Leppämäki Sami , Tani Pekka , Hokkanen Laura
Published: September 2009

Difficulties in phonological processing and reading that characterize developmental dyslexia have been suggested also to affect those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, it is not known to what extent various intervening factors, such as low intelligence quotient or age, explain the observed difficulties. In this study, the authors investigated the domains of phonological processing, reading, spelling, and arithmetic in 110 adults (ages 18—55 years) in healthy control, dyslexia, and ADHD groups.The aim of the study was specifically to compare domain profiles of participants with ADHD to those in other groups.The results showed that participants with dyslexia had the most generalized difficulties. Participants with ADHD were the least affected, and their difficulties reflected less accurate performance. Furthermore, all the observed differences became nonsignificant when intelligence quotient was controlled for. This suggests that adult ADHD is not related to significant impairments in phonological processing or achievement.
Teacher Questioning to Elicit Students’ Mathematical Thinking in Elementary School Classrooms
Authors: Franke Megan L. , Webb Noreen M. , Chan Angela G. , Ing Marsha , Freund Deanna , Battey Dan
Published: September 2009

Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI) researchers have found that while teachers readily ask initial questions to elicit students’ mathematical thinking, they struggle with how to follow up on student ideas. This study examines the classrooms of three teachers who had engaged in algebraic reasoning CGI professional development. We detail teachers’ questions and how they relate to students’ making explicit their complete and correct explanations. We found that after the initial “How did you get that?” question, a great deal of variability existed among teachers’ questions and students’ responses.
An Application of Queuing Theory to Modeling of Melange Yarns Part I: A Queuing Model of Melange Yarn Structure
Authors: Siewe Francois , Grishanov Sergei , Cassidy Thomas , Banyard Geoffrey
Published: September 2009

A queuing model of staple fiber yarn is presented that enables the modeling and a better understanding of fiber migration in a yarn. The model provides a fine yarn structure where the migrational behavior of fibers is associated with the behavior of customers traveling across an open network of queuing systems to get services. Based on this analogy, the underlying mathematical foundation of the queuing theory is used for the modeling of yarn structure and properties. The model uses yarn technical specifications including yarn linear density and twist level, fiber linear density and length distribution, together with specific parameters such as fiber packing density distribution and migration probabilities. The model can be used for modeling a wide range of structurally different yarns; examples include marl, mottle and melange yarns, yarns with different levels of hairiness, and yarns produced by various spinning systems. The model can be used for 3D simulation of yarns in computer-aided design systems for textile design and for the prediction of mechanical properties of yarns.
Inferring Causal Complexity
Authors: Baumgartner Michael
Published: September 2009

In The Comparative Method, Ragin (1987) outlined a procedure of Boolean causal reasoning operating on pure coincidence data that has since become widely known as qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) among social scientists. QCA—including its recent forms as presented in Ragin (2000, 2008)—is designed to analyze causal structures featuring no more than one effect and a possibly complex configuration of mutually independent direct causes of that effect. This article presents a procedure of causal reasoning that operates on the same type of empirical data as QCA and that implements Boolean techniques related to the ones resorted to by QCA. Yet in contrast to QCA, the procedure introduced here successfully identifies structures involving both multiple effects and mutually dependent causes. In this sense, this article generalizes QCA.
How Much Does It Cost?
Authors: Gauthier Jacques-Antoine , Widmer Eric D. , Bucher Philipp , Notredame Cédric
Published: September 2009

One major methodological problem in analysis of sequence data is the determination of costs from which distances between sequences are derived. Although this problem is currently not optimally dealt with in the social sciences, it has some similarity with problems that have been solved in bioinformatics for three decades. In this article, the authors propose an optimization of substitution and deletion/insertion costs based on computational methods. The authors provide an empirical way of determining costs for cases, frequent in the social sciences, in which theory does not clearly promote one cost scheme over another. Using three distinct data sets, the authors tested the distances and cluster solutions produced by the new cost scheme in comparison with solutions based on cost schemes associated with other research strategies. The proposed method performs well compared with other cost-setting strategies, while it alleviates the justification problem of cost schemes.
Influence of Reaction Volume on the Properties of Natural Rubber-g-Methyl Methacrylate
Authors: Kalkornsurapranee Ekwipoo , Sahakaro Kannika , Kaesaman Azizon , Nakason Charoen
Published: September 2009

Graft copolymer of natural rubber and poly(methyl methacrylate) was prepared using CHP/TEPA redox initiators at 50°C and a reaction time of 3 h. Various reaction volumes (i.e., 0.5, 100, and 200 L) were used to prepare the graft copolymer which was then characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectrophotometer (1H-NMR) techniques. It was found that conversion of monomer to polymer and grafting efficiency slightly decreased with increasing reaction volumes. Quantity of grafted poly(methyl methacrylate) was calculated based on the integrated peak areas of the 1H-NMR spectra and quantitative analysis by extraction method. It was found that both techniques gave similar level of the grafted poly(methyl methacrylate) onto the natural rubber backbone. Furthermore, Mooney viscosities, glass transition temperature (Tg) and degradation temperature (Td) of the natural rubber and poly(methyl methacrylate) were slightly decreased with increasing the reaction volumes.
Multilevel Performance Indicators for Multisectoral Networks and Management
Authors: Herranz Joaquin
Published: September 2009

Assessing public network performance is conceptually and methodologically challenging, because it is difficult to account for a public network’s multidimensional characteristics. This is one of the reasons why there are few fully developed conceptual frameworks that are supported by field-based empirical evidence. This theoretical underdevelopment makes it problematic for researchers to propose ways that professional managers may better develop, coordinate, and evaluate public networks.This article helps address this problem by extending and operationalizing Provan and Milward’s framework for multilevel (i.e., organizational, network, community) network effectiveness with Herranz’s concept of multisectoral network coordination strategies (i.e., bureaucratic, entrepreneurial, community). This article addresses the research question of whether network coordination is associated with network performance. The study finds that different network coordination approaches are associated with differential multilevel network performance and suggests that researchers and public managers consider network performance implications within the context of a strategic network coordination framework. Rather than offering a new theory to explain network effectiveness, this article aims to help build out “middle-range” theory as a step toward helping to construct more robust conceptual frameworks that inform the development of network management strategies and performance measurement tools for practitioners.
Positive Attitudes Toward Older People and Well-being Among Chinese Community Older Adults
Authors: Luo Lu  , Kao Shu-Fang , Hsieh Ying-Hui
Published: September 2009

We aimed to explore older people’s attitudes toward aging and to further examine associations of such attitudes with their well-being in a Chinese society— Taiwan. Face-to-face interviews were conducted to collect data using structured questionnaires from a random sample of community older people ( N = 316). We found that (a) older people possessed positive attitudes toward aging in general, but there were some group attitudinal differences associated with education attainment and urban residence; (b) older age, fewer social support, and less positive attitudes toward aging were related to more depressive symptoms; (c) younger age, greater social support, greater community participation, and more positive attitudes were related to higher happiness. The associations of positive attitudes with well-being were found after controlling for those of social support and community participation.
Report: The current situation of sanitary landfills in Brazil and the importance of the application of economic models
Authors: Neto Raul Oliveira , Petter Carlos Otávio , Cortina José Luis
Published: September 2009

We present the development stage of the sanitary landfills in Brazil in the context of urban solid residue management, demonstrating the necessity and importance of the employment of economic models. In the article, a cost estimate model is proposed as the basis for studies to be applied by sector management, including the city council, companies, consultants and engineers, contributing to the choice of new areas, public bids, municipal consortia and private public partnerships.
Antimony and arsenic leaching from secondary lead smelter air-pollution-control residues
Authors: Ettler Vojtěch , Mihaljevič Martin , Šebek Ondřej
Published: September 2009

Environments in the vicinity of the lead (Pb) smelters are contaminated by emissions containing high concentrations of antimony (Sb) and arsenic (As). Air-pollution-control (APC) residues from bag-type filters from a secondary Pb smelter were subjected to leaching experiments to elucidate the controlling mechanisms of Sb and As release. Kinetic batch leaching tests at a liquid-to-solid (L/S) ratio of 10 L kg- 1 within the time frame of 720 hours and batch leaching at various L/S ratios (ranging from 1 to 1000 L kg-1) were performed. In contrast to other inorganic contaminants (Pb, Cd, Zn), less than 1% of the total Sb and As content was leached from the residues. At a L/S ratio of 10, the As and Sb concentrations in the leachates exceeded the EU limit values for non-hazardous waste (0.2 and 0.07 mg L-1 ). According to PHREEQC-2 calculations, the concentrations of As and Sb are controlled by the precipitation of complex arsenates and antimonates mainly at low L/S ratios. The washing and related chemical/mineralogical transformation of APC residues was suggested as a technological pre-treatment process before their re-smelting in a blast furnace. The Ferrox-like processing of the resulting contaminated process water/leachate was simulated using the PHREEQC-2 code. Significant reduction was obtained in the concentration of some key contaminants (As, Cu, Pb, Zn) related to sorption on newly formed hydrous ferric oxides, whereas Sb and Cd exhibited only limited attenuation.
Giving Miss Marple a Makeover: Graduate Recruitment, Systems Failure, and the Scottish Voluntary Sector
Authors: Hurrell Scott. A. , Warhurst Chris , Nickson Dennis
Published: September 2009

The voluntary sector in Scotland, as in many other countries, is becoming increasingly business like. Resultantly, there is an increasing demand for graduates to work in business and support functions. In Scotland, however, despite an oversupply of graduates in the labor market, the voluntary sector reports skills shortages for graduate-level positions. Through exploratory, mainly qualitative research, this article demonstrates that one reason for this mismatch between the supply of and demand for graduates is a systems failure within the sector. Many graduates and university students remain unaware of potentially suitable paid job opportunities, in part because of the sector’s voluntary label. To rectify this systems failure, thought needs to be given to the sector’s nomenclature and the manner in which voluntary sector organizations attract graduate recruits, for example, through levering value congruence in potential recruits.
No longer young, not yet old
Authors: Facchini Carla , Rampazi Marita
Published: September 2009

The article explores the pluralization of biographical time perspectives in contemporary transition from adulthood to old age, focusing on the relationship between life-time structuring in late adulthood and the different ways in which individuals experience ‘biographical uncertainty’ at psycho-physical, economic and relational levels. Finally, the concept of ‘reflected uncertainty’ is proposed, to analyse the ambiguous effects of young people’s ‘biographical uncertainty’ on late adults’ own perspective. The discussion is supported by the results of qualitative research on Lombard 55—65-year-olds, in light of the Italian situation.
Gendered relations to working time and union agreements
Authors: Willis Eileen , Henderson Julie , Toffoli Luisa , Walter Bonnie
Published: September 2009

The intensification of working time is a major impediment to the recruitment and retention of nurses worldwide. This article examines the outcomes of negotiations between the Australian Nursing Federation (South Australia), the major nursing union and the South Australian Government, with a particular focus on working-time tools introduced to deintensify nurses’ labour. The article compares two strategies negotiated by the union: one for public sector nurses working in acute hospitals where the throughput of patients is short term, the other in the community sector where most patients have chronic mental or physical conditions and their care requirements are long term. The outcomes of the two tools for reducing work intensification reflect gendered relations to time, but are contradictory in terms of control over the labour process. The tool used in the acute sector is highly successful in reducing work intensity but shifts control of the labour process to management. The community-based tool provides nurses with control over the labour process, but is less successful in reducing work intensification or working hours.
The relationship between timing of entry into a foreign market, entry mode decision and market selection
Authors: Gallego M. Ángeles , Hidalgo Encarnación Ramos , Acedo Francisco J. , Casillas José C. , Moreno Ana M.
Published: September 2009

Companies that decide to internationalize have to respond to some basic questions, such as where and how to carry out their strategy. Classic literature regarding the internationalization process has focused on entry mode and market selection decisions. However, the recent international entrepreneurship perspective considers a new dimension: timing of entry. This new approach has opened up a new line of research, arguing that time is a dimension that must be explicitly considered in order to develop a proper understanding of the internationalization process of firms. However, very few papers have looked at all these questions from this perspective in an integrative manner. This article puts forward a proposal about the relationship that exists between the timing of entry into foreign markets, the entry mode decision, and market/country selection. Starting with a review of the variables that have traditionally been used to explain timing of entry and then looking at the different forms of internationalization, the aim of this article is to propose a link between these important questions in order to increase our understanding of a company’s internationalization process.
The body in times of acceleration and delimitation
Authors: Gerisch Benigna
Published: September 2009

This article discusses the evident popularity of the body as an expression of manipulative attacks on time-bound physicality or, to be more exact, the dialectics of aestheticizing and destructive body practices. The perspective is explicitly psychoanalytic-psychodynamic and claims neither to be a statement of totality nor does it draw on traditional empirical evidence. The topic is triggered by the fact that we are faced with a paradoxical situation: on the one hand, unimagined technical methods of perfecting the body are available as never before — body-shaping possibilities in the broadest sense — while, on the other, we are aware of the increase in grave, wordless self-destructive practices, such as eating disorders and self-harming. This article examines the complex interaction of the inner and outer world, and plumbs the depths of the unconscious to question why, in the late modern era, the body has become a stage on which intra-psychic and social productions are enacted. These theories are exemplified by means of clinical experience.
Financial Intermediation and Employment
Authors: Pant Manoj , Chowdhury Prabal Roy , Singh Gurbachan
Published: September 2009

In our model, there are entrepreneurs and other agents. The latter have labour and capital, but no entrepreneurship. They are employed for a wage, or they are self-employed (which is inefficient). If they are employed for a wage, they invest their capital in financial assets. Otherwise, they take up self-employment, which requires capital and leaves little scope for buying financial assets. It can then be shown that investment in financial assets and wage employment are positively correlated. The model helps explain why a small financial system and low wage employment are observed in less developed countries that have high cost of financial intermediation.
Nutritional Assessment of Children With Cancer
Authors: Mosby Terezie Tolar , Barr Ronald D. , Pencharz Paul B.
Published: September 2009

Regardless of which parts of the world they live in, most children will develop and grow at a similar rate if proper nutrition is ensured. Children from developing countries are at risk for primary malnutrition. Children undergoing anticancer therapy are at higher risk for secondary malnutrition, including obesity and growth retardation. Periodic nutritional assessments are important for planning effective dietary interventions for such children. In this review, we describe malnutrition as it occurs in children with cancer and various ways of assessing the nutritional status of these children, depending on the availability of resources in their local hospitals. Objective and subjective data should be used to complete the nutritional assessment. We discuss screening methods, including the use of subjective global assessment. Different parts of nutritional assessment include medical history; physical examination; biochemical and hematological data, such as visceral proteins, blood glucose levels, and lipid profiles, hemoglobin and hematocrit, and the lymphocyte count; anthropometric measurements; and food and nutrition history. We review medical tests and procedures to determine nutritional status, including nitrogen balance, delayed cutaneous hypersensitivity, prognostic nutritional index, creatinine height index, maldigestion and malabsorption tests, indirect calorimetry, and dual energy X ray absorptiometry (DXA scan). Evaluation and interpretation of data and estimation of nutritional risk are discussed, including proper techniques and use of anthropometric measures, selection and use of growth charts, calculation of caloric and protein needs, and the percentage of calories ingested. These methods will enable local health care providers to accurately assess the nutritional status of children with cancer, identify children at risk, and plan adequate nutritional interventions.
Measurement and specification of lighting: A look at the future
Authors: Goodman TM
Published: September 2009

Measurement is at the heart of our modern technological world, supporting trade, industry and science and underpinning the regulatory framework that helps maintain and improve our quality of life in areas as diverse as public health and safety, climate change, and sport and leisure. Unlike a large proportion of the millions of measurements made each day, those relating to things we can ‘see’, such as lamps and lighting, are not based only on physical parameters, but must also take account of the human visual responses. This paper explores the shortcomings in our current measurement systems for light and lighting, and highlights where further research is needed in order to understand more fully the ways in which light affects us. The latest advances in instrumentation and data analysis techniques are also reviewed and the potential consequences for measurements of lighting and glazing are considered.
Primary HIV-1 Drug Resistance and Polymorphic Patterns Among Injecting Drug Users (IDUs) in Chennai, Southern India
Authors: Iqbal H. Syed , Solomon Sunil S. , Madhavan Vidya , Solomon Suniti , Balakrishnan P.
Published: September 2009

Background and Objective: India has 1.1 million injecting drug users (IDUs) with an HIV prevalence rate as high as 64%. Drug resistance screening before therapy is beneficial to the individual. Here, we have studied primary drug resistance among IDUs in Chennai.

Methods: Specimens (n = 55) collected between March 2005 and April 2006 were subjected to genotyping assay. The mutations for the drug resistance were interpreted using the Stanford HIV Drug Resistance Database.

Results: M41LM (1.8%), K65KN (1.8%), and G73GS (2.7%) were found to be associated with low-level resistance to zidovudine (ZDV), stavudine (d4T), abacavir (ABC), didanosine (ddI), emtricitabine (FTC), tenofovir (TDF), and saquinavir (SQV) in each specimen. The rate of polymorphisms is significantly different from universally established subtype ‘‘C’’-specific polymorphisms (P < .0001).

Conclusion: The presence of drug resistance mutations, though minimal, is alarming as it could spread easily between IDUs and from them to their sexual partners. The genetic variation is of importance in vaccine design.
Appendicectomy and Cholecystectomy Using Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS): The First UK Experience
Authors: Chow Andre , Purkayastha Sanjay , Paraskeva Paraskevas
Published: September 2009

Introduction. Single-incision laparoscopic surgery (SILS) has the potential advantages of reduced postoperative pain and reduced port-site complications. Careful attention to closure can lead to virtually “scarless” surgery. In this article, we present our first experiences with SILS appendicectomy and cholecystectomy. Method . SILS appendicectomy and cholecystectomy was performed in 12 and 14 patients, respectively. Data were collected prospectively and analyzed retrospectively from case notes and the theater database. Results. The average operating times were 61.3 and 142.9 minutes for SILS appendicectomy and SILS cholecystectomy, respectively. There was a good correlation between increasing experience and a reduction in operative time with Pearson’s coefficient being −1 for appendicectomy and −0.56 for cholecystectomy. There were no postoperative complications in the SILS appendicectomy group. One patient in the SILS cholecystectomy group suffered a postoperative biliary leak from an accessory duct of Lushka. Conclusions. In our series, we have demonstrated SILS to be a safe and efficacious method for appendicectomy and cholecystectomy. Further studies are required to investigate any potential advantages of this method over standard laparoscopic techniques.
Class C CpG oligodeoxynucleotides as a single agent and in combination with radiotherapy efficiently delayed growth of subcutaneous B16F1 tumors
Authors: Cerkovnik Petra , Jezersek Novakovic Barbara , Stegel Vida , Novakovic Srdjan
Published: September 2009

Until now, the anti-tumor efficacy of synthetic oligodeoxynucleotides containing CpG motifs (CpG ODNs) has been reported in a number of preventive and therapeutic tumor models. Predominately class B CpG ODNs were used, relatively little has been reported regarding the class C CpG ODNs. The present study was, therefore, aimed at assessing the ability of CpG ODNs class C applied as a single agent and in combination with radiotherapy to induce the anti-tumor immunity in an experimental tumor model in mice (subcutaneous [s.c.] B16F1). Class C CpG ODNs applied three times as a single agent efficiently delayed the growth of s.c. B16F1 tumors. The combined therapy (CpG ODNs and tumor irradiation) remarkably enhanced the anti-tumor effect. The peritumoral (p.t.) application of CpG ODNs in combination with irradiation increased the number of dendritic cells (DCs) at the tumor site and improved the antigen loading and maturation of DCs. In conclusion, the combined therapy with CpG ODNs and irradiation creates a unique in situ DCs vaccine that could be easily applicable without prior knowledge of tumor antigens.
The water channel aquaporin-1 partitions into exosomes during reticulocyte maturation: implication for the regulation of cell volume
Authors: Blanc Lionel , Liu Jing , Vidal Michel , Chasis Joel Anne , An Xiuli , Mohandas Narla
Published: September 2009

Aquaporin-1 (AQP-1), the universal water channel, is responsible for rapid response of cell volume to changes in plasma tonicity. In the membrane of the red cell the concentration of the protein is tightly controlled. Here, we show that AQP-1 is partially lost during in vitro maturation of mouse reticulocytes and that it is associated with exosomes, released throughout this process. AQP-1 in young reticulocytes localizes to the plasma membrane and also in endosomal compartments and exosomes, formed both in vitro and in vivo. During maturation a part of the total pool of AQP-1 is differentially sorted and released via the exosomal pathway. A proteasome inhibitor, MG132, suppresses secretion of AQP-1, implying that ubiquitination is a sorting signal for its release. We further show that modulation of medium tonicity in vitro regulates the secretion of AQP-1, thus showing that extracellular osmotic conditions can drive sorting of selected proteins by the exosomal pathway. These results lead us to suggest that AQP-1 sorting into exosomes may be the mechanism by which the reticulocyte adapts to environmental changes during its maturation.
Inhibitory effects of armepavine against hepatic fibrosis in rats
Authors: Weng Ting-Chun , Shen Chien-Chang , Chiu Yung-Tsung , Lin Yun-Lian , Kuo Cheng-Deng , Huang Yi-Tsau
Published: September 2009

Activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) plays a crucial role in liver fibrogenesis. armepavine (Arm, C19H23O3N), an active compound from Nelumbo nucifera, has been shown to exert immunosuppressive effects on T lymphocytes and on lupus nephritic mice. The aim of this study was to investigate whether Arm could exert anti-hepatic fibrogenic effects in vitro and in vivo. A cell line of rat HSCs (HSC-T6) was stimulated with tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to evaluate the inhibitory effects of Arm. An in vivo therapeutic study was conducted in bile duct-ligated (BDL) rats. BDL rats were given Arm (3 or 10 mg/kg) by gavage twice daily for 3 weeks starting from the onset of BDL. Liver sections were taken for fibrosis scoring, immuno-fluorescence staining and quantitative real-time mRNA measurements. In vitro, Arm (1-10 μM) concentration-dependently attenuated TNF-α- and LPS-stimulated α-SMA protein expression and AP-1 activation by HSC-T6 cells without adverse cytotoxicity. Arm also suppressed TNF-α-induced collagen collagen deposition, NFκB activation and MAPK (p38, ERK1/2, and JNK) phosphorylations. In vivo, Arm treatment significantly reduced plasma AST and ALT levels, hepatic α-SMA expression and collagen contents, and fibrosis scores of BDL rats as compared with vehicle treatment. Moreover, Arm attenuated the mRNA expression levels of col 1α2, TGF-β1, TIMP-1, ICAM-1, iNOS, and IL-6 genes, but up-regulated metallothionein genes. Our study results showed that Arm exerted both in vitro and in vivo antifibrotic effects in rats, possibly through anti-NF-κB activation pathways.
Geldanamycin induces production of heat shock protein 70 and partially attenuates ototoxicity caused by gentamicin in the organ of Corti explants
Authors: Yu Yang , Szczepek Agnieszka J , Haupt Heidemarie , Mazurek Birgit
Published: September 2009

Background

Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) protects inner ear cells from damage and death induced by e.g. heat or toxins. Benzoquinone ansamycin antibiotic geldanamycin (GA) was demonstrated to induce the expression of HSP70 in various animal cell types. The aim of our study was to investigate whether GA induces HSP70 in the organ of Corti (OC), which contains the auditory sensory cells, and whether GA can protect these cells from toxicity caused by a common aminoglycoside antibiotic gentamicin.

Methods

To address these questions, we used the OC explants isolated from p3-p5 rats. As a read-out, we used RT-PCR, ELISA and immunofluorescence.

Results

We found that GA at the concentration of 2 μM efficiently induced HSP70 expression on mRNA and protein level in the OC explants. Confocal microscopy revealed that HSP70 induced by GA is expressed by hair cells and interdental cells of spiral limbus. Preincubation of explants with 2 μM GA prior to adding gentamicin (500 μM) significantly reduced the loss of outer but not inner hair cells, suggesting different mechanisms of otoprotection needed for these two cell types.

Conclusion

GA induced HSP70 in the auditory sensory cells and partially protected them from toxicity of gentamicin. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of GA otoprotection may provide insights for preventative therapy of the hearing loss caused by aminoglycoside antibiotics.
Identification of a two-marker-haplotype on Bos taurus autosome 18 associated with somatic cell score in German Holstein cattle
Authors: Brand Bodo , Baes Christine , Mayer Manfred , Reinsch Norbert , Kühn Christa
Published: September 2009

Background

The somatic cell score (SCS) is implemented in routine sire evaluations in many countries as an indicator trait for udder health. Somatic cell score is highly correlated with clinical mastitis, and in the German Holstein population quantitative trait loci (QTL) for SCS have been repeatedly mapped on Bos taurus autosome 18 (BTA18). In the present study, we report a refined analysis of previously detected QTL regions on BTA18 with the aim of identifying marker and marker haplotypes in linkage disequilibrium with SCS. A combined linkage and linkage disequilibrium approach was implemented, and association analyses of marker genotypes and maternally inherited two-marker-haplotypes were conducted to identify marker and haplotypes in linkage disequilibrium with a locus affecting SCS in the German Holstein population.

Results

We detected a genome-wide significant QTL within marker interval 9 (HAMP_c.366+109G>A - BMS833) in the middle to telomeric region on BTA18 and a second putative QTL in marker interval 12-13 (BB710 - PVRL2_c.392G>A). Association analyses with genotypes of markers flanking the most likely QTL positions revealed the microsatellite marker BMS833 (interval 9) to be associated with a locus affecting SCS within the families investigated. A further analysis of maternally inherited two-marker haplotypes and effects of maternally inherited two-marker-interval gametes indicated haplotype 249-G in marker interval 12-13 (BB710 - PVRL2_c.392G>A) to be associated with SCS in the German Holstein population.

Conclusion

Our results confirmed previous QTL mapping results for SCS and support the hypothesis that more than one locus presumably affects udder health in the middle to telomeric region of BTA18. However, a subsequent investigation of the reported QTL regions is necessary to verify the two-QTL hypothesis and confirm the association of two-marker-haplotype 249-G in marker interval 12-13 (BB710 - PVRL2_c.392G>A) with SCS. For this purpose, higher marker density and multiple-trait and multiple-QTL models are required to narrow down the position of the causal mutation or mutations affecting SCS in German Holstein cattle.
Hypoxic transcription gene profiles under the modulation of nitric oxide in nuclear run on-microarray and proteomics
Authors: Igwe Emeka I , Essler Silke , Al-Furoukh Natalie , Dehne Nathalie , Brüne Bernhard
Published: September 2009

Background

Microarray analysis still is a powerful tool to identify new components of the transcriptosome. It helps to increase the knowledge of targets triggered by stress conditions such as hypoxia and nitric oxide. However, analysis of transcriptional regulatory events remain elusive due to the contribution of altered mRNA stability to gene expression patterns as well as changes in the half-life of mRNAs, which influence mRNA expression levels and their turn over rates. To circumvent these problems, we have focused on the analysis of newly transcribed (nascent) mRNAs by nuclear run on (NRO), followed by microarray analysis.

Results

We identified 196 genes that were significantly regulated by hypoxia, 85 genes affected by nitric oxide and 292 genes induced by the cotreatment of macrophages with both NO and hypoxia. Fourteen genes (Bnip3, Ddit4, Vegfa, Trib3, Atf3, Cdkn1a, Scd1, D4Ertd765e, Sesn2, Son, Nnt, Lst1, Hps6 and Fxyd5) were common to all treatments but with different levels of expression in each group. We observed that 162 transcripts were regulated only when cells were co-treated with hypoxia and NO but not with either treatment alone, pointing to the importance of a crosstalk between hypoxia and NO. In addition, both array and proteomics data supported a consistent repression of hypoxia-regulated targets by NO.

Conclusion

By eliminating the interference of steady state mRNA in gene expression profiling, we obtained a smaller number of significantly regulated transcripts in our study compared to published microarray data and identified previously unknown hypoxia-induced targets. Gene analysis profiling corroborated the interplay between NO- and hypoxia-induced signaling.