bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cooptation and cooperation: institutional exemplars of democratic internet technology
Authors: Pickard Victor W.
Published: July 2008

This article examines how online political groups are co-opting internet technology from commercial interests to amplify various cooperative processes. After formulating a framework for praxis-based democratic theories of technology, I select four internet-based groups as institutional exemplars for analysis: Democratic Underground, Free Republic, Indymedia, and Move On. These groups implement distinct types of democratic applications of internet technology and embody specific strands of democratic theory. I conclude by commenting on the direction of internet-based democratic practices, their political efficacy in terms of strategy and tactics, and how they figure within US political culture.
On assessing situations and events in conversation: `extraposition' and its relatives
Authors: Couper-Kuhlen Elizabeth , Thompson Sandra A.
Published: July 2008

Recent research provides strong evidence that the syntacticization of recurrent multi-actional and interactional patterns for accomplishing social actions is quite a general phenomenon. Drawing on a body of audio and video recordings, we consider three pervasive conversational patterns whereby English speakers carry out the assessing of an event or situation, and the interactional contingencies which give rise to these patterns. We propose that one of these patterns (known as `extraposition') can be revealingly understood as having syntacticized to a grammatical and prosodically unified construction as an amalgamation of the other two patterns, which are interactional routines. We suggest that the `extraposition' construction provides a particularly elegant instance of how grammar emerges from the recurrent interactional practices which make up the fabric of our daily lives.
The Impact of Individual Collectivism on Commitment and Its Influence on Organizational Citizenship Behaviour and Turnover in Three Countries
Authors: Felfe Jörg , Wenhua Yan  , Six Bernd
Published: July 2008

Increasing globalization and rising markets in Eastern Europe and Asia have led to a growing interest in issues of cross cultural management. In western culture, high correlations have been found between leadership, commitment, turnover and performance. In this study we examined the influence of cultural differences on employees' commitment and its impact on relevant outcomes at the individual and the country level. Collectivism was directly measured at the individual level. Organizational citizenship behaviour (OCB) and turnover intention were examined as consequences of commitment. Data were collected in Germany, Romania and China. As expected, results indicate that collectivism as a cultural value orientation is related to commitment, and exerts a stronger influence on commitment in collectivistic countries. Moreover, the relationships between commitment and outcomes are stronger in a collectivistic context.
A Comparison of the Speech and Language Skills of Children With Cochlear Implants and Children With Normal Hearing
Authors: Schorr Efrat A. , Roth Froma P. , Fox Nathan A.
Published: July 2008

This study explored the language skills of children with cochlear implants (CIs) compared to normal hearing (NH) peers. Standardized speech and language measures, including speech articulation, receptive and expressive vocabulary, syntax and morphology, and metalinguistics, were administered to 39 congenitally deaf children, ages 5 to 14, and a matched sample of NH children. Many CI children demonstrated age-appropriate scores on several language measures, yet their performance was significantly lower than NH peers. Results indicated that (a) age at implant predicted significant variance in receptive vocabulary and short-term auditory memory performance, and (b) duration of CI use predicted receptive syntax performance.
Closing a Resource Room for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
Authors: Miller Kevin J.
Published: July 2008

Self-contained classrooms and resource rooms have been an important component of the continuum of placements available to students who are deaf or hard of hearing. However, these specialized classrooms have been closing in recent years. A variety of factors are contributing to this, most notably the impact of cochlear implants. This article describes the factors leading to the closure of an elementary school resource room for students who are deaf or hard of hearing and the process of transitioning these students back to their home school districts. Implications of closing specialized classrooms for students who are deaf or hard of hearing are discussed.
An Observational Study of Reading Instruction for Students Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Public Schools
Authors: Donne Vicki J. , Zigmond Naomi
Published: July 2008

An observational study of reading instruction, using the MS-CISSAR protocol, was conducted in general education classrooms, resource classrooms, and self-contained special education/deaf education classrooms in Grades 1 through 4 in public schools within the tri-state area of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Participants were 24 students who are deaf or hard of hearing and 17 teachers of reading for these students. Results indicated that reading activities varied significantly by instructional setting and grade level enrolled. In addition, teacher behaviors were significantly different by instructional setting, grade level enrolled, reading curriculum level, and students' level of hearing loss.
Special Education in the New National Educational Data System
Authors: Ahearn Eileen M.
Published: July 2008

For more than 5-years, the U.S. Department of Education has been developing and implementing a new data system, ED Facts, designed to contain all the educational data it collects from states. This article provides a summary of the development of the new federal system and describes some of the benefits and challenges it poses for states, districts, and schools. The addition of data from special education to the new system is also described.
Meet Karen Dilka, Executive Director of the Council on Education of the Deaf
Authors: Montgomery Judy K.
Published: July 2008

From the Field connects you with clinicians and practitioners in speech-language pathology. In each issue, you will meet a professional selected for an in-depth interview on a highly practical topic. The interviews are conducted by the editor of CDQ, Judy K. Montgomery, PhD, CCC-SLP, Chapman University, Orange, California. Suggestions for future interviews should be sent to Dr. Montgomery at montgome@chapman.edu.
Treating Depression in the Prison Nursing Home
Authors: Meeks Suzanne , Sublett Robin , Kostiwa Irene , Rodgers James R. , Haddix Donna
Published: July 2008

We describe a theoretically grounded and empirically developed intervention for depression with older men in a state reformatory nursing home. As the number of prisoners “aging in place” rises, there is a critical need for research on mental health interventions in prison nursing homes where inmates may be at high risk for depression and suicide. The participants in this project were four male residents in the Kentucky state prison system nursing home; all four had diagnoses of major depressive episodes. BE-ACTIV, a behavioral treatment for depression, is a hybrid approach that combines one-to-one sessions with the depressed resident and work with staff. One-to-one sessions motivate the resident to engage in new activities, while meetings with nursing home staff break down barriers to completion of pleasant events. Over the 10-week treatment, depressive symptoms declined, and global functioning increased an average of 13 points per participant. Two of the participants showed improved self-reported negative affect. Study results suggest that BE-ACTIV is feasible in the prison nursing home and has the potential to improve the quality of life for medically frail prisoners by helping them to identify meaningful or pleasant activities. The cases illustrate importance of therapeutic relationships in the context of improving depressive symptoms, and the possibility of building effective relationships in a setting with multiple barriers to effective treatment.
External Iliac Venous Aneurysm Treated With Tangential Aneurysmatectomy and Lateral Venorrhaphy: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kotsis Thomas , Mylonas Spyridon , Katsenis Konstantinos , Arapoglou Vasileios , Dimakakos Panagiotis
Published: July 2008

Venous aneurysms of the femoro-iliac axis are uncommon abnormalities of the vascular system with a potentially life-threatening course; they can be associated with the disastrous events of thromboembolism or rupture. Therefore, a focused imaging evaluation and prophylactic treatment is essential. The appropriate surgical approach is, however, dictated by the morphological parameters and the extent of the aneurysm. We present an external iliac venous aneurysm in a 31-year-old woman that was revealed incidentally and treated successfully by tangential aneurysmectomy and lateral venorrhaphy. The choice of surgical technique is discussed along with a review of the literature on venous aneurysms.
Young African American Men Having Sex With Multiple Partners Are More Likely to Use Condoms Incorrectly: A Clinic-Based Study
Authors: Crosby Richard A. , DiClemente Ralph J. , Yarber William L. , Snow Gregory , Troutman Adewale
Published: July 2008

This study tested the research hypothesis that men's errors using condoms would be associated with having multiple sex partners. Specifically, men engaging in sex with three or more women were compared with those having sex with two or fewer women. Recruitment ( N = 271) occurred in a publicly funded sexually transmitted disease (STD) clinic located in a metropolitan area of the Southern United States. All men were clinically diagnosed with an STD. They completed a self-reported questionnaire (using a 3-month recall period). Those reporting sex with men were excluded from the analysis. About one half of the men (48.5%) reported penetrative sex with three or more women. The authors found that among young African American men, newly diagnosed with an STD, reporting recent (past 3 months) sex with multiple partners may be emblematic of condom errors. These men may benefit from clinic-based, targeted counseling and education designed to foster improved quality of condom use.
Gender and probation in the Second World War
Authors: Worrall Anne
Published: July 2008

An autobiographical novel by Julia Steel recounts a year in the life of a probation officer working in London in 1945. The unpublished manuscript, written in the mid-1950s, provides a rare contemporary glimpse into the lives and social regulation of a group of families living on a housing estate at the end of the Second World War. Steel herself was a wartime graduate of the Cromwell Road Home Office Training Centre. This article sets primary source material, including lecture notes from Steel's training course, in the context of both contemporary and recent academic and professional literature. Following the centenary year of the Probation Service in England and Wales, it aims to contribute some new insights into the history of (women) probation officers and their daily work. It argues that Steel's manuscript and lecture notes can be interpreted within an analysis of state intervention in the lives of working-class families that places professional women in a tutelary and disciplinary relationship with mothers and daughters. It concludes by demonstrating the relevance of such an analysis to our understanding of the gendered nature of work in the Probation Service in England and Wales.
Focus on form: foregrounding devices in football reporting
Authors: Chovanec Jan
Published: July 2008

This article documents some foregrounding devices that the media use to attract readers' attention to linguistic forms, all identified in sports reports relating to the Euro 2004 Football Championship published in various British newspapers. A functional explanation is offered in terms of the poetic and interactive character of such devices and their role in simulating friendship and encouraging `bonding' between the writers and readers (phaticity). Their omnipresence in the British media is linked with structural characteristics of the English language, the readiness of the British to tolerate manipulation of linguistic forms, and the general trend towards `infotainment' in the media.
Organizational discourse and communication: the progeny of Proteus
Authors: Guowei Jian  , Schmisseur Amy M. , Fairhurst Gail T.
Published: July 2008

As Van Dijk (2007) proposed in the first issue of Discourse and Communication , the main purpose of this journal is to bridge the two cross-disciplines of communication and discourse studies. Given this goal, this article sought to help clear the ground for such interdisciplinary development by investigating how organizational researchers use the terms `discourse' and `communication' and cast discourse—communication relationships. By reviewing 112 organizational discourse studies from major journals in communication, organizational studies, and interdisciplinary journals published between 1981 and 2006, this study identified diverse conceptualizations of these basic concepts. The findings help dispel some of the misunderstandings that scholars from one research field may possess toward the other and sort through some, if not all, the confusions regarding the terms `discourse', `communication', and their relationships.
Flagellin and lipopolysaccharide up-regulation of IL-6 and CXCLi2 gene expression in chicken heterophils is mediated by ERK1/2-dependent activation of AP-1 and NF-κB signaling pathways
Authors: Kogut Michael H. , Genovese Kenneth J. , Haiqi He  , Kaiser Pete
Published: July 2008

The Toll-like receptor agonists, flagellin (FLG) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS), stimulate chicken heterophils to induce the expression and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines by a mechanism involving the triggering of differential MEK-ERK signaling cascades. However, the translocation and activation of transcription factors potentially involved in the control of cytokine gene expression remains unknown. Herein, we examined the effects of FLG and LPS on the activation of the transcription factors NF-κB and AP-1 and their role in regulating heterophil activation leading to cytokine gene expression. Treatment of heterophils with either FLG or LPS induced a significant increase in DNA binding by the NF-κB family members p50, c-Rel, and RelB. Likewise, FLG and LPS induced a significant increase in DNA binding by the AP-1 family members c-Jun and JunD. The activation of both NF-κB and AP-1 was inhibited following treatment of heterophils with specific inhibitors of ERK1/2 (U0126 and PD098059), NF-κB (Bay 11-7086 and the cell-permeable NF-κB peptide, SN50), and AP-1 (Tanshinone IIA). Likewise, the up-regulation of gene expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, and the inflammatory chemokine, CXCLi2, were inhibited when heterophils were treated with the same specific inhibitors. Taken together these data demonstrate that FLG and LPS stimulate the up-regulation of expression of IL-6 and CXCLi2 through an ERK1/2-dependent activation of both NF-κB and AP-1.
Kupffer cell products and interleukin 1? directly promote VLDL secretion and apoB mRNA up-regulation in rodent hepatocytes
Authors: Bartolomé Nerea , Arteta Beatriz , Martínez María José , Chico Yolanda , Ochoa Begoña
Published: July 2008

Plasma VLDL accumulation in Gram-negative sepsis is partly ascribed to an increased hepatic VLDL production driven by pro-inflammatory cytokines. We previously showed that hepatocytes of the Kupffer cell (KC)-rich periportal area are major contributors to enhanced VLDL production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-injected rats. However, it remains to be established whether KC generated products directly affect the number (apoB) and composition of secreted VLDL. Using rat primary cells, we show here that hepatocytes respond to stimulation by soluble mediators released by LPS-stimulated Kupffer cells with enhanced secretion of apoB and triglycerides in phospholipid-rich VLDL particles. Unstimulated KC products also augmented the secretion of normal VLDL, doubling apoB mRNA abundance. IL-1β treatment resulted in concentration-dependent increases of hepatocyte apoB mRNA and protein secretion, increases that were greater, but not additive, when combined with IL-6 and TNF-α. Lipid secretion and MTP mRNA levels were unaffected by cytokines. In summary: (i) enhanced secretion of phospholipid-rich VLDL particles is a net hepatocyte response to LPS-stimulated KC products, which gives a clue about the local role of Kupffer cells in septic dyslipidemia induction; and (ii) pro-inflammatory cytokines act redundantly to enhance apoB secretion involving translational apoB up-regulation, but other humoral components or KC mediators are necessary to accomplish increased lipid association.
Sonographic Evaluation of an Ovarian Borderline Epithelial Tumor
Authors: Elmeier Vivian , Webb Diane , Sonek Jiri
Published: July 2008

Borderline tumors are a special category of epithelial ovarian tumors that share both benign and malignant features. Women who have borderline tumors, if found at an early stage, have an excellent prognosis. With the advancement of transvaginal sonography, the likelihood of finding these ovarian lesions at an early stage, when a conservative treatment can be used, is high. Borderline tumors tend to occur in women of reproductive age. Therefore, accurate preoperative diagnosis is important so a fertility-sparing procedure can be employed whenever possible.
Microstructure and properties of laser cladding TiC/TiAl composite coatings on γ-TiAl intermetallic alloy
Authors: Wang J. , Song R. G. , Lin X. , Huang W. D.
Published: July 2008

To improve the wear resistance of the γ-TiAl intermetallic alloy, Ti–Al–TiC alloy powders were prepared on the surface of TiAl intermetallic alloy and then treated by a high power continuous wave CO2 laser. TiC reinforced TiAl matrix composite coatings have been successfully synthesised. The microstructure, phase composition, microhardness and wear resistance of the laser cladding composite coatings were investigated by optical microscope, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and pin on disc wear test. The results show that the morphology of reinforced TiC homogeneously disperses in TiAl matrix and changes from dendritic TiC into short bar and particle shape with increasing the scanning rate. Also, the microhardness is enhanced by an increase in the scanning rate. The average microhardness of the composite coating under laser scanning rate of 600 mm min–1 is 1·8 times of the substrate. The laser cladding composite coatings have better wear resistance than original TiAl alloy, and the wear mechanisms are discussed in detail.
Macrophage-specific metalloelastase (MMP-12) truncates and inactivates ELR+ CXC chemokines and generates CCL2, -7, -8, and -13 antagonists: potential role of the macrophage in terminating polymorphonuclear leukocyte influx
Authors: Dean Richard A. , Cox Jennifer H. , Bellac Caroline L. , Doucet Alain , Starr Amanda E. , Overall Christopher M.
Published: July 2008

Through the activity of macrophage-specific matrix metalloproteinase-12 (MMP-12), we found that macrophages dampen the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced influx of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs)—thus providing a new mechanism for the termination of PMN recruitment in acute inflammation. MMP-12 specifically cleaves human ELR+ CXC chemokines (CXCL1, -2, -3, -5, and -8) at E-LR, the critical receptor-binding motif or, for CXCL6, carboxyl-terminal to it. Murine (m) MMP-12 also cleaves mCXCL1, -2, and -3 at E-LR. MMP-12-cleaved mCXCL2 (macrophage-inflammatory protein-2 [MIP-2]) and mCXCL3 (dendritic cell inflammatory protein-1 [DCIP-1]) lost chemotactic activity. Furthermore, MMP-12 processed and inactivated monocyte chemotactic proteins CCL2, -7, -8, and -13 at position 4-5 generating CCR antagonists. Indeed, PMNs and macrophages in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were significantly increased 72 hours after intranasal instillation of LPS in Mmp12−/− mice compared with wild type. Specificity occurred at 2 levels. Macrophage MMP-1 and MMP-9 did not cleave in the ELR motif. Second, unlike human ELR+CXC chemokines, mCXCL5 (LPS-induced CXC chemokine [LIX]) was not inactivated. Rather, mMMP-12 cleavage at Ser4-Val5 activated the chemokine, promoting enhanced PMN early infiltration in wild-type mice compared with Mmp12−/− mice 8 hours after LPS challenge in air pouches. We propose that the macrophage, specifically through MMP-12, assists in orchestrating the regulation of acute inflammatory responses by precise proteolysis of ELR+CXC and CC chemokines.
Activation of natural regulatory T cells by IgG Fc–derived peptide “Tregitopes”
Authors: De Groot Anne S. , Moise Leonard , McMurry Julie A. , Wambre Erik , Van Overtvelt Laurence , Moingeon Philippe , Scott David W. , Martin William
Published: July 2008

We have identified at least 2 highly promiscuous major histocompatibility complex class II T-cell epitopes in the Fc fragment of IgG that are capable of specifically activating CD4+CD25HiFoxP3+ natural regulatory T cells (nTRegs). Coincubation of these regulatory T-cell epitopes or “Tregitopes” and antigens with peripheral blood mononuclear cells led to a suppression of effector cytokine secretion, reduced proliferation of effector T cells, and caused an increase in cell surface markers associated with TRegs such as FoxP3. In vivo administration of the murine homologue of the Fc region Tregitope resulted in suppression of immune response to a known immunogen. These data suggest that one mechanism for the immunosuppressive activity of IgG, such as with IVIG, may be related to the activity of regulatory T cells. In this model, regulatory T-cell epitopes in IgG activate a subset of nTRegs that tips the resulting immune response toward tolerance rather than immunogenicity.
ALK+ histiocytosis: a novel type of systemic histiocytic proliferative disorder of early infancy
Authors: Chan John K. C. , Lamant Laurence , Algar Elizabeth , Delsol Georges , Tsang William Y. W. , Lee King C. , Tiedemann Karin , Chow Chung W.
Published: July 2008

We report 3 cases of a previously uncharacterized form of histiocytosis presenting in early infancy and showing ALK immunoreactivity. The patients presented with pallor, massive hepatosplenomegaly, anemia, and thrombocytopenia. Liver biopsy showed infiltration of the sinusoids by large histiocytes with markedly folded nuclei, fine chromatin, small nucleoli, and voluminous lightly eosinophilic cytoplasm that sometimes was vacuolated or contained phagocytosed blood cells. One patient developed cutaneous infiltrates that morphologically resembled juvenile xanthogranuloma. The histiocytes were immunoreactive for histiocytic markers (CD68, CD163, lysozyme), S100 protein, ALK (membranous and cytoplasmic pattern), and dendritic cell markers (fascin, factor XIIIa), but not CD1a and langerin. One case successfully analyzed by molecular techniques revealed TPM3-ALK fusion. Thus the spectrum of diseases exhibiting ALK translocation should be expanded to include ALK+ histiocytosis. The disease in the 3 patients (2 having been given chemotherapy) resolved slowly over many months.
The dendritic cell subtype-restricted C-type lectin Clec9A is a target for vaccine enhancement
Authors: Caminschi Irina , Proietto Anna I. , Ahmet Fatma , Kitsoulis Susie , Shin Teh Joo , Lo Jennifer C. Y. , Rizzitelli Alexandra , Wu Li , Vremec David , van Dommelen Serani L. H. , Campbell Ian K. , Maraskovsky Eugene , Braley Hal , Davey Gayle M. , Mottram Patricia , van de Velde Nicholas , Jensen Kent , Lew Andrew M. , Wright Mark D. , Heath William R. , Shortman Ken , Lahoud Mireille H.
Published: July 2008

A novel dendritic cell (DC)–restricted molecule, Clec9A, was identified by gene expression profiling of mouse DC subtypes. Based on sequence similarity, a human ortholog was identified. Clec9A encodes a type II membrane protein with a single extracellular C-type lectin domain. Both the mouse Clec9A and human CLEC9A were cloned and expressed, and monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against each were generated. Surface staining revealed that Clec9A was selective for mouse DCs and was restricted to the CD8+ conventional DC and plasmacytoid DC subtypes. A subset of human blood DCs also expressed CLEC9A. A single injection of mice with a mAb against Clec9A, which targets antigens (Ags) to the DCs, produced a striking enhancement of antibody responses in the absence of added adjuvants or danger signals, even in mice lacking Toll-like receptor signaling pathways. Such targeting also enhanced CD4 and CD8 T-cell responses. Thus, Clec9A serves as a new marker to distinguish subtypes of both mouse and human DCs. Furthermore, targeting Ags to DCs with antibodies to Clec9A is a promising strategy to enhance the efficiency of vaccines, even in the absence of adjuvants.
Fluid-containing emphysematous bullae: a spectrum of illness
Authors: Chandra D. , Rose S. R. , Carter R. B. , Musher D. M. , Hamill R. J.
Published: July 2008

Fluid-containing emphysematous bullae are an under-reported complication of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The roles of bronchoscopy in the work-up and of antibiotics in the treatment are undefined.

This study reports the combined results from the analysis of 16 cases treated at the present authors’ institution and 36 previously reported cases.

The median age at presentation was 58 yrs and the median duration of follow-up was 60 weeks. A third of the patients were asymptomatic, while two-thirds presented with symptoms, including 10% who had evidence of a severe lung infection. Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus,Pseudomonas aeruginosaandBacteroides melaninogenicuswere cultured from the bullae fluid in three symptomatic patients. Sputum and blood cultures were uninformative. Bronchoscopy, performed in two-thirds of the cases, added no diagnostic information. Antibiotic treatment did not result in a more rapid resolution of the air fluid level. Percutaneous drainage was safe and effective in four patients.

In conclusion, patients with fluid-containing bullae present with a spectrum of illness. Antibiotic treatment does not hasten radiographic resolution and bronchoscopy has no diagnostic or therapeutic role.
A fragmented metazoan organellar genome: the two mitochondrial chromosomes of Hydra magnipapillata
Authors: Voigt Oliver , Erpenbeck Dirk , Wörheide Gert
Published: July 2008

Background

Animal mitochondrial (mt) genomes are characteristically circular molecules of ~16–20 kb. Medusozoa (Cnidaria excluding Anthozoa) are exceptional in that their mt genomes are linear and sometimes subdivided into two to presumably four different molecules. In the genus Hydra, the mt genome comprises one or two mt chromosomes. Here, we present the whole mt genome sequence from the hydrozoan Hydra magnipapillata, comprising the first sequence of a fragmented metazoan mt genome encoded on two linear mt chromosomes (mt1 and mt2).

Results

The H. magnipapillata mt chromosomes contain the typical metazoan set of 13 genes for respiratory proteins, the two rRNA genes and two tRNA genes. All genes are unidirectionally oriented on mt1 and mt2, and several genes overlap. The gene arrangement suggests that the two mt chromosomes originated from one linear molecule that separated between nd5 and rns. Strong correlations between the AT content of rRNA genes (rns and rnl) and the AT content of protein-coding genes among 24 cnidarian genomes imply that base composition is mainly determined by mt genome-wide constraints. We show that identical inverted terminal repeats (ITR) occur on both chromosomes; these ITR contain a partial copy or part of the 3' end of cox1 (54 bp). Additionally, both mt chromosomes possess identical oriented sequences (IOS) at the 5' and 3' ends (5' and 3' IOS) adjacent to the ITR. The 5' IOS contains trnM and non-coding sequences (119 bp), whereas the 3' IOS comprises a larger part (mt2) with a larger partial copy of cox1 (243 bp).

Conclusion

ITR are also documented in the two other available medusozoan mt genomes (Aurelia aurita and Hydra oligactis). In H. magnipapillata, the arrangement of ITR and 5' IOS and 3' IOS suggest that these regions are crucial for mt DNA replication and/or transcription initiation. An analogous organization occurs in a highly fragmented ichthyosporean mt genome. With our data, we can reject a model of mt replication that has previously been proposed for Hydra. This raises new questions regarding replication mechanisms probably employed by all medusozoans, and also has general implications for the expected organization of fragmented linear mt chromosomes of other taxa.
High-resolution array copy number analyses for detection of deletion, gain, amplification and copy-neutral LOH in primary neuroblastoma tumors: Four cases of homozygous deletions of the CDKN2A gene
Authors: Carén Helena , Erichsen Jennie , Olsson Linda , Enerbäck Charlotta , Sjöberg Rose-Marie , Abrahamsson Jonas , Kogner Per , Martinsson Tommy
Published: July 2008

Background

Neuroblastoma is a very heterogeneous pediatric tumor of the sympathetic nervous system showing clinically significant patterns of genetic alterations. Favorable tumors usually have near-triploid karyotypes with few structural rearrangements. Aggressive stage 4 tumors often have near-diploid or near-tetraploid karyotypes and structural rearrangements. Whole genome approaches for analysis of genome-wide copy number have been used to analyze chromosomal abnormalities in tumor samples. We have used array-based copy number analysis using oligonucleotide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) arrays to analyze the chromosomal structure of a large number of neuroblastoma tumors of different clinical and biological subsets.

Results

Ninety-two neuroblastoma tumors were analyzed with 50 K and/or 250 K SNP arrays from Affymetrix, using CNAG3.0 software. Thirty percent of the tumors harbored 1p deletion, 22% deletion of 11q, 26% had MYCN amplification and 45% 17q gain. Most of the tumors with 1p deletion were found among those with MYCN amplification. Loss of 11q was most commonly seen in tumors without MYCN amplification. In the case of MYCN amplification, two types were identified. One type displayed simple continuous amplicons; the other type harbored more complex rearrangements. MYCN was the only common gene in all cases with amplification. Complex amplification on chromosome 12 was detected in two tumors and three different overlapping regions of amplification were identified. Two regions with homozygous deletions, four cases with CDKN2A deletions in 9p and one case with deletion on 3p (the gene RBMS3) were also detected in the tumors.

Conclusion

SNP arrays provide useful tools for high-resolution characterization of significant chromosomal rearrangements in neuroblastoma tumors. The mapping arrays from Affymetrix provide both copy number and allele-specific information at a resolution of 10–12 kb. Chromosome 9p, especially the gene CDKN2A, is subject to homozygous (four cases) and heterozygous deletions (five cases) in neuroblastoma tumors.
Polymorphism, genetic exchange and intragenic recombination of the aureolysin gene among Staphylococcus aureusstrains
Authors: Sabat Artur J , Wladyka Benedykt , Kosowska-Shick Klaudia , Grundmann Hajo , van Dijl Jan Maarten , Kowal Julia , Appelbaum Peter C , Dubin Adam , Hryniewicz Waleria
Published: July 2008

Background

Staphylococcus aureus expresses several proteases, which are thought to contribute to the virulence of this bacterium. Here we focus on aureolysin, the major thermolysin-like metalloprotease. Despite the importance of aureolysin in the physiology and pathogenesis of S. aureus, relatively little information was so far available concerning the aur gene diversity and mobility within and between the major subdivisions of the S. aureus population. Therefore, an epidemiologically and genetically diverse collection of S. aureus strains was used to determine the range of aureolysin (aur) gene polymorphism.

Results

Sequence analyses support the conclusion that the aur gene occurs in two distinct types of related sequences. The aur gene was much more polymorphic but, at the same time, showed higher purifying selection than genes utilized for multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Gene trees constructed from aur and concatenated MLST genes revealed several putative assortative recombination events (i.e. entire aur gene exchanges) between divergent lineages of S. aureus. Evidence for intragenic recombination events (i.e. exchanges of internal aur segments) across aur genes was also found. The biochemical properties and substrate specificity of the two types of aureolysin purified to homogeneity were studied, revealing minor differences in their affinity to low molecular weight synthetic substrates.

Conclusion

Although numerous nucleotide differences were identified between the aur alleles studied, our findings showed that a strong purifying selection is acting on the aur gene. Moreover, our study distinguishes between homologous exchanges of the entire aur gene (assortative recombination) between divergent S. aureus lineages and recombination events within aur genes.
Reverse transcriptase-PCR differential display analysis of meningococcal transcripts during infection of human cells: Up-regulation of priA and its role in intracellular replication
Authors: Talà Adelfia , De Stefano Mario , Bucci Cecilia , Alifano Pietro
Published: July 2008

Background

In vitro studies with cell line infection models are beginning to disclose the strategies that Neisseria meningitidis uses to survive and multiply inside the environment of the infected host cell. The goal of this study was to identify novel virulence determinants that are involved in this process using an in vitro infection system.

Results

By using reverse transcriptase-PCR differential display we have identified a set of meningococcal genes significantly up-regulated during residence of the bacteria in infected HeLa cells including genes involved in L-glutamate transport (gltT operon), citrate metabolism (gltA), disulfide bond formation (dsbC), two-partner secretion (hrpA-hrpB), capsulation (lipA), and DNA replication/repair (priA). The role of PriA, a protein that in Escherichia coli plays a central role in replication restart of collapsed or arrested DNA replication forks, has been investigated. priA inactivation resulted in a number of growth phenotypes that were fully complemented by supplying a functional copy of priA. The priA-defective mutant exhibited reduced viability during late logarithmic growth phase. This defect was more severe when it was incubated under oxygen-limiting conditions using nitrite as terminal electron acceptors in anaerobic respiration. When compared to wild type it was more sensitive to hydrogen peroxide and the nitric oxide generator sodium nitroprusside. The priA-defective strain was not affected in its ability to invade HeLa cells, but, noticeably, exhibited severely impaired intracellular replication and, at variance with wild type and complemented strains, it co-localized with lysosomal associated membrane protein 1.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our study i.) demonstrates the efficacy of the experimental strategy that we describe for discovering novel virulence determinants of N. meningitidis and ii.) provides evidence for a role of priA in preventing both oxidative and nitrosative injury, and in intracellular meningococcal replication.
Brain maps of Iowa gambling task
Authors: Lin Ching-Hung , Chiu Yao-Chu , Cheng Chou-Ming , Hsieh Jen-Chuen
Published: July 2008

Background

Somatic Marker Hypothesis (SMH), based on clinical observations, delineates neuronal networks for interpreting consciousness generation and decision-making. The Iowa gambling task (IGT) was designed to verify the SMH. However, more and more behavioral and brain imaging studies had reported incongruent results that pinpointed a need to re-evaluate the central representations of SMH. The current study used event-related fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging) to examine neural correlates of anticipation vs. outcome, wins vs. losses, and differential decks' contingencies of IGT.

Results

Behavioral results showed a prominent effect of frequency in driving choices. The insula and basal ganglia were activated during the anticipation phase while the inferior parietal lobule was activated during the outcome phase. The activation of medial prefrontal cortex was especially targeted during the high punishment contingencies. The data suggest that under uncertainty the normal decision makers can become myopic.

Conclusion

The insula and basal ganglia might play a vital role in long-term guidance of decision-making. Inferior parietal lobule might participate in evaluating the consequence and medial prefrontal cortex may service the function of error monitoring.
Healthy Hearts – A community-based primary prevention programme to reduce coronary heart disease
Authors: Richardson Gill , van Woerden Hugo C , Morgan Lucy , Edwards Rhiannon , Harries Monica , Hancock Elaine , Sroczynsk Susan , Bowley Mererid
Published: July 2008

Background

The ten year probability of cardiovascular events can be calculated, but many people are unaware of their risk and unclear how to reduce it. The aim of this study was to assess whether a community based intervention, for men and women aged between 45 and 64 years without pre-existing coronary heart disease, would reduce their Framingham scores when reassessed one year later.

Methods

Individuals in the relevant age group from a defined geographical area were sent an invitation to attend for an assessment of their cardiovascular risk. Individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular disease or terminal illness were excluded. The invitation was in the form of a "Many Happy Returns" card with a number of self-screening questions including the question, "If you put the enclosed string around your waist, is it too short?" The card contained a red 80 cm piece of string in the case of women, or a green 90 cm piece of string in the case of men. At the assessment appointment, Framingham scores were calculated and a printout was given to each individual. Advice was provided for relevant risk factors identified using agreed guidelines. If appropriate, onward referral was also made to a GP, dietician, an exercise referral scheme, or to smoking cessation services, using a set of guidelines. Individuals were sent a second invitation one year later to return for re-assessment.

Results and discussion

2031 individuals were asked to self-assess their eligibility to participate, 596 individuals attended for assessment and 313 of these attended for follow-up one year later. The mean reduction in the Framingham risk score, was significantly lower at one year (0.876, 95% CI 0.211 to 1.541, p = 0.01). The mean 10-year risk of CHD at baseline was 13.14% (SD 9.18) and had fallen at follow-up to 12.34% (SD 8.71), a mean reduction of 6.7% of the initial 10-year Framingham risk. If sustained, the estimated NNT to prevent each year of CHD would be 1141 (95% CI 4739 to 649) individual appointments.

Conclusion

This community intervention for primary prevention of CHD reduces Framingham risk scores at one year in those who engage with the programme.
Evaluation and optimization of a commercial enzyme linked immunosorbent assay for detection of Chlamydophila pneumoniaeIgA antibodies
Authors: Frikha-Gargouri Olfa , Gdoura Radhouane , Znazen Abir , Ben Arab Nozha , Gargouri Jalel , Ben Jemaa Mounir , Hammami Adnene
Published: July 2008

Background

Serologic diagnosis of Chlamydophila pneumoniae (Cpn) infection routinely involves assays for the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies to Cpn. Although IgA antibodies to Cpn have been found to be of interest in the diagnosis of chronic infections, their significance in serological diagnosis remains unclear. The microimmunofluorescence (MIF) test is the current method for the measurement of Cpn antibodies. While commercial enzyme linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) have been developed, they have not been fully validated. We therefore evaluated and optimized a commercial ELISA kit, the SeroCP IgA test, for the detection of Cpn IgA antibodies.

Methods

Serum samples from 94 patients with anti-Cpn IgG titers ≥ 256 (study group) and from 100 healthy blood donors (control group) were tested for the presence of IgA antibodies to Cpn, using our in-house MIF test and the SeroCP IgA test. Two graph receiver operating characteristic (TG-ROC) curves were created to optimize the cut off given by the manufacturer.

Results

The MIF and SeroCP IgA tests detected Cpn IgA antibodies in 72% and 89%, respectively, of sera from the study group, and in 9% and 35%, respectively, of sera from the control group. Using the MIF test as the reference method and the cut-off value of the ELISA test specified by the manufacturer for seropositivity and negativity, the two tests correlated in 76% of the samples, with an agreement of Ƙ = 0.54. When we applied the optimized cut-off value using TG-ROC analysis, 1.65, we observed better concordance (86%) and agreement (0.72) between the MIF and SeroCP IgA tests.

Conclusion

Use of TG-ROC analysis may help standardize and optimize ELISAs, which are simpler, more objective and less time consuming than the MIF test. Standardization and optimization of commercial ELISA kits may result in better performance.
Secretion of biologically active interferon-gamma inducible protein-10 (IP-10) by Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Villatoro-Hernandez Julio , Loera-Arias Maria J , Gamez-Escobedo Anali , Franco-Molina Moises , Gomez-Gutierrez Jorge G , Rodriguez-Rocha Humberto , Gutierrez-Puente Yolanda , Saucedo-Cardenas Odila , Valdes-Flores Jesus , Montes-de-Oca-Luna Roberto
Published: July 2008

Background

Chemokines are a large group of chemotactic cytokines that regulate and direct migration of leukocytes, activate inflammatory responses, and are involved in many other functions including regulation of tumor development. Interferon-gamma inducible-protein-10 (IP-10) is a member of the C-X-C subfamily of the chemokine family of cytokines. IP-10 specifically chemoattracts activated T lymphocytes, monocytes, and NK cells. IP-10 has been described also as a modulator of other antitumor cytokines. These properties make IP-10 a novel therapeutic molecule for the treatment of chronic and infectious diseases. Currently there are no suitable live biological systems to produce and secrete IP-10. Lactococcus lactis has been well-characterized over the years as a safe microorganism to produce heterologous proteins and to be used as a safe, live vaccine to deliver antigens and cytokines of interest. Here we report a recombinant strain of L. lactis genetically modified to produce and secrete biologically active IP-10.

Results

The IP-10 coding region was isolated from human cDNA and cloned into an L. lactis expression plasmid under the regulation of the pNis promoter. By fusion to the usp45 secretion signal, IP-10 was addressed out of the cell. Western blot analysis demonstrated that recombinant strains of L. lactis secrete IP-10 into the culture medium. Neither degradation nor incomplete forms of IP-10 were detected in the cell or supernatant fractions of L. lactis. In addition, we demonstrated that the NICE (nisin-controlled gene expression) system was able to express IP-10 "de novo" even two hours after nisin removal. This human IP-10 protein secreted by L. lactis was biological active as demonstrated by Chemotaxis assay over human CD3+T lymphocytes.

Conclusion

Expression and secretion of mature IP-10 was efficiently achieved by L. lactis forming an effective system to produce IP-10. This recombinant IP-10 is biologically active as demonstrated by its ability to chemoattract human CD3+ T lymphocytes. This strain of recombinant L. lactis represents a potentially useful tool to be used as a live vaccine in vivo.
Heart rate in professional musicians
Authors: Iñesta Claudia , Terrados Nicolás , García Daniel , Pérez José A
Published: July 2008

Background

Very few studies have analysed heart rate (HR) with regard to music playing, and the scarce evidence available is controversial. The purpose of this study was to analyse the HR response of professional musicians during their real-work activity.

Methods

Sixty-two voluntary professional musicians (20 women, 42 men), whose ages ranged between 15 and 71 years old, underwent the test while playing their instruments in real life scenarios, i.e. rehearsals, practice and public concerts. The musicians carried Sport Tester PE4000 (Polar®, Finland) pulsometers to record their HR.

In order to compare data from differently aged subjects we calculated their Maximum Theoretical Heart Rate (MTHR). Later on we found out the MTHR percentages (%MTHR) corresponding to the registered HR of each subject in different situations. The value of the MTHR for every musician was obtained by means of the 220 – age (in years) formula.

Results

Throughout the HR recordings, we have observed that musicians present a heightened HR while playing (in soloists, mean and maximum HR were 72% and 85%MTHR, respectively). Cardiac demand is significantly higher in concerts than in rehearsals while performing the same musical piece. The HR curves corresponding to the same musician playing in repeated concerts (with the same programme) were similar.

Conclusion

The cardiac demand of a professional instrument player is higher than previously described, much greater than what would be expected from a supposedly sedentary activity.
Epiglottis reshaping using CO2 laser: A minimally invasive technique and its potent applications
Authors: Bourolias Constantinos , Hajiioannou Jiannis , Sobol Emil , Velegrakis George , Helidonis Emmanuel
Published: July 2008

Laryngomalacia (LRM), is the most common laryngeal abnormality of the newborn, caused by a long curled epiglottis, which prolapses posteriorly. Epiglottis prolapse during inspiration (acquired laryngomalacia) is an unusual cause of airway obstruction and a rare cause of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

We present a minimally invasive technique where epiglottis on cadaveric larynx specimens was treated with CO2 laser. The cartilage reshaping effect induced by laser irradiation was capable of exposing the glottis opening widely. This technique could be used in selected cases of LRM and OSAS due to epiglottis prolapse as an alternative, less morbid approach.
Candida tropicalisspondylodiskitis in a patient with carcinoma of sigmoid colon: a case report
Authors: Parthiban Chandra JKB , Majeed Shiju A , Mahalingam Shanthanam S
Published: July 2008

Fungal spondylodiskitis is being increasingly reported in immunocompromised patients. A patient who presented with severe back pain three months following laparoscopic resection of Carcinoma of Sigmoid colon is presented here. Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the spine showed evidence of multilevel lumbar spondylodiskitis. Biopsy done via the posterior approach showed Candida tropicalis sensitive to fluconazole and resistant to Amphotericin B. Patient was treated with fluconazole and had good relief. Posterior pedicle screw stabilization was done to provide mechanical stability.