bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PET Response-Guided Treatment of Hodgkin's Lymphoma: A Review of the Evidence and Active Clinical Trials
Authors: Aridgides Paul , Bogart Jeffrey , Shapiro Anna , Gajra Ajeet
Published: December 2010

Risk-adaptive therapy for Hodgkin's lymphoma focuses on treatment modifications based on assessment of response. [18F]Fluoro-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography (PET) performed during or after completion of chemotherapy is a strong prognostic factor for eventual treatment outcome. Conceptually, this strategy seeks to increase efficacy and minimize toxicity through the appropriate selection of patients for either therapy escalation (high-risk, PET positive) or de-escalation (low-risk, PET negative). Preliminary evidence with tailoring both chemotherapy (drug selection, number of cycles, and dose) and radiotherapy (omission or inclusion) is varied; however, numerous clinical trials seeking to validate this approach are ongoing. This paper summarizes the available evidence and active protocols involving PET response-adapted therapy for adult (early and advanced stages) Hodgkin's lymphoma.
RuCl3 · nH2O as Catalyst for Diastereoselective Direct Aldol Reaction: An Efficient Route to Hormone Steroid Derivatives
Authors: Tabatabaeian Khalil , Keshavarz Elahe , Mamaghani Manouchehr , Mahmoodi Nosrat O.
Published: December 2010

-catalyzed regio- and diastereoselective direct aldol reaction of progesterone with aromatic aldehydes has been developed in good yields (58–78%). Advantages of this method include catalytic efficiency, short reaction times, and ease of operation and workup.
Becoming an Older Volunteer: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Witucki Brown Janet , Chen Shu-li , Mefford Linda , Brown Allie , Callen Bonnie , McArthur Polly
Published: December 2010

This Grounded Theory study describes the process by which older persons “become” volunteers. Forty interviews of older persons who volunteered for Habitat for Humanity were subjected to secondary content analysis to uncover the process of “becoming” a volunteer. “Helping out” (core category) for older volunteers occurs within the context of “continuity”, “commitment” and “connection” which provide motivation for volunteering. When a need arises, older volunteers “help out” physically and financially as health and resources permit. Benefits described as “blessings” of volunteering become motivators for future volunteering. Findings suggest that older volunteering is a developmental process and learned behavior which should be fostered in older persons by personally inviting them to volunteer. Intergenerational volunteering projects will allow older persons to pass on knowledge and skills and provide positive role modeling for younger volunteers.
Rabbit Model of Retinoblastoma
Authors: Kang Shin Jeong , Grossniklaus Hans E.
Published: December 2010

We created a rabbit model of retinoblastoma and confirmed the tumor clinically and histopathologically. Seventeen New Zealand rabbits were immunosuppressed with cyclosporin A at doses of
10–15 mg/kg. At day 3, the animals received a 30 μl subretinal injection of 1 × 106 cultured WERI retinoblastoma cells. Digital fundus images were captured before euthanasia, and the eyes were submitted for histopathology. Retinoblastoma cells grew in all the inoculated eyes and established a tumor under the retina and/or in the vitreous. New blood vessels in the tumor were observed starting at week 5. Cuffs of viable tumor cells surrounded the blood vessels with regions of necrosis present at 70–80 μm from nutrient vessels. Occasional tumor seeds in the vitreous histologically exhibited central necrosis. This rabbit model demonstrated similar fundus appearance and pathologic features to human retinoblastoma and may be used as a model to test various routes of drug delivery for retinoblastoma.
Performance and Emission Characteristics of Diesel Engine Fueled with Ethanol‐Diesel Blends in Different Altitude Regions
Authors: Lei Jilin , Bi Yuhua , Shen Lizhong
Published: December 2010

In order to investigate the effects ethanol‐diesel blends and altitude on the performance and emissions of diesel engine, the comparative experiments were carried out on the bench of turbo‐charged diesel engine fueled with pure diesel (as prototype) and ethanol‐diesel blends (E10, E15, E20 and E30) under different atmospheric pressures (81 kPa, 90 kPa and 100 kPa). The experimental results indicate that the equivalent brake‐specific fuel consumption (BSFC) of ethanol‐diesel blends are better than that of diesel under different atmospheric pressures and that the equivalent BSFC gets great improvement with the rise of atmospheric pressure when the atmospheric pressure is lower than 90 kPa. At 81 kPa, both HC and CO emissions rise greatly with the increasing engine speeds and loads and addition of ethanol, while at 90 kPa and 100 kPa their effects on HC and CO emissions are slightest. The changes of atmospheric pressure and mix proportion of ethanol have no obvious effect on NOx emissions. Smoke emissions decrease obviously with the increasing percentage of ethanol in blends, especially atmospheric pressure below 90 kPa.
Interim FDG-PET Scan in Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Hopes and Caveats
Authors: André M. , Vander Borght T. , Bosly A.
Published: December 2010

FDG-PET has recently emerged as an important tool for the management of Hodgkins lymphoma. Although its use for initial staging and response evaluation at the end of treatment is well established, the place of interim PET for response assessment and subsequent treatment tailoring is still quite controversial. The use of interim PET after a few cycles of chemotherapy may allow treatment reduction for good responders, leading to lesser treatment toxicities as well as early treatment adaptation for bad responders with a potential higher chance for cure. Interpretation of interim PET is a rapidly moving field. Actually, visual interpretation is preferred over quantitative interpretation in this situation. The notion of minimal residual uptake emerged for faint persisting FDG uptake, but has evolved during the recent years. Guidelines using mediastinum and liver as references have been proposed at the expert meeting in Deauville 2009. Actually, several trials are ongoing both for localised and advanced disease to evaluate the FDG-PET potential for early treatment monitoring and tailoring. Until the results of these prospective randomized trials become available, treatment changes according to the interim PET results should remain inappropriate and limited to well-conducted clinical trials.
Liposarcoma: Molecular Genetics and Therapeutics
Authors: Conyers Rachel , Young Sophie , Thomas David M.
Published: December 2010

Sarcomas are a group of heterogeneous tumours with varying genetic basis. Cytogenetic abnormalities range from distinct genomic rearrangements such as pathognomonic translocation events and common chromosomal amplification or loss, to more complex rearrangements involving multiple chromosomes. The different subtypes of liposarcoma are spread across this spectrum and constitute an interesting tumour type for molecular review. This paper will outline molecular pathogenesis of the three main subtypes of liposarcoma: well-differentiated/dedifferentiated, myxoid/round cell, and pleomorphic liposarcoma. Both the molecular basis and future avenues for therapeutic intervention will be discussed.
INVAP′s Research Reactor Designs
Authors: Villarino Eduardo , Doval Alicia
Published: December 2010

INVAP, an Argentine company founded more than three decades ago, is today recognized as one of the leaders within the research reactor industry. INVAP has participated in several projects covering a wide range of facilities, designed in accordance with the requirements of our different clients. For complying with these requirements, INVAP developed special skills and capabilities to deal with different fuel assemblies, different core cooling systems, and different reactor layouts. This paper summarizes the general features and utilization of several INVAP research reactor designs, from subcritical and critical assemblies to high‐power reactors.
Using the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire and the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning in Assessing Motivation and Learning Strategies of Generation 1.5 Korean Immigrant Students
Authors: Stoffa Rosa , Kush Joseph C. , Heo Misook
Published: December 2010

This study examined the potential of utilizing the Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ) and the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) as instruments in measuring Generation 1.5 students' motivation and their use of language learning strategies. The MSLQ was of particular interest because it contains both a basic motivation subscale as well as a motivation/language learning strategies subscale. Participants of this study were 104 Generation 1.5 Korean immigrant students who were members of Korean communities located in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Participants provided general demographic information and completed both scales in a counterbalanced manner. Results indicated that while the two scales do have some similar content, the scales do not overlap entirely and appeared to measure two discrete indices. Results also indicated that a moderate correlation between MSLQ learning strategies and SILL learning strategies was found as well as between the SILL total score and the MSLQ total score.
Behavioral and Psychological Factors Associated with 12-Month Weight Change in a Physical Activity Trial
Authors: Napolitano Melissa A. , Hayes Sharon
Published: December 2010

Examining behavioral and psychological factors relating to weight stability over a 1-year period is of public health importance. We conducted a physical activity (PA) intervention trial for women (N=247; meanage=47.5±10.7; meanBMI=28.6±5.3) in which participants were assigned to one of three groups (two PA and one contact-control). By Month 12, participants achieved140.4±14.82 min of PA/week, with no group differences. Weight status change from baseline to Month 12 was categorized:no change(N=154; 62.4%);increase(N=34; 13.8%);decrease(N=59; 23.9%). Discriminant function analyses indentified two statistically significant dimensions associated with weight change. Dimension 1 was positively weighted by mood (0.73) and self-efficacy (0.79); dimension 2 was positively weighted to change in physical activity (0.58) and fat consumption (0.55). Results provide further evidence for the importance of behavior in long-term weight maintenance, particularly physical activity and dietary fat. These findings also provide evidence for the importance of addressing psychosocial variables, in particular depressed mood and self-efficacy.
Deciphering Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using Multidimensional Genomic Approaches
Authors: Gibb Ewan A. , Enfield Katey S. S. , Tsui Ivy F. L. , Chari Raj , Lam Stephen , Alvarez Carlos E. , Lam Wan L.
Published: December 2010

Squamous cell carcinomas (SqCCs) arise in a wide range of tissues including skin, lung, and oral mucosa. Although all SqCCs are epithelial in origin and share common nomenclature, these cancers differ greatly with respect to incidence, prognosis, and treatment. Current knowledge of genetic similarities and differences between SqCCs is insufficient to describe the biology of these cancers, which arise from diverse tissue origins. In this paper we provide a general overview of whole genome approaches for gene and pathway discovery and highlight the advancement of integrative genomics as a state-of-the-art technology in the study of SqCC genetics.
Extracellular Matrix Remodeling of the Umbilical Cord in Pre-eclampsia as a Risk Factor for Fetal Hypertension
Authors: Romanowicz Lech , Galewska Zofia
Published: December 2010

The human umbilical cord forms a connection between the placenta and the foetus. It is composed of two arteries and one vein surrounded by Wharton's jelly. Pre-eclampsia is accompanied by extensive remodeling of extracellular matrix of umbilical cord. Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are engaged in degradation of extracellular matrix proteins and activation/inactivation of certain cytokines and enzymes. These enzymes will probably play a central role in the release of matrix-embedded cytokines and growth factors. MMP-2 (gelatinase A) is the main collagenolytic enzyme of both umbilical artery and vein. Other metalloproteinases are present in several times lower amounts. Reduced activity of collagen-degrading enzymes may be a factor, which enhances the accumulation of collagen and some other proteins in the pre-eclamptic umbilical cord tissues. It seems to be possible that similar alterations occur in other fetal blood vessels. It may result in an increase in peripheral resistance as well as an increase in the blood pressure in the fetal vascular system. Some observations suggest that the raised pressure may persist after birth. Pre-eclampsia may be a factor that evokes an initiation of hypertension in utero and its amplification through childhood and adulthood.
Subthreshold α2-Adrenergic Activation Counteracts Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Potentiation of Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion
Authors: Pan Minglin , Yang Guang , Cui Xiuli , Yang Shao-Nian
Published: December 2010

The pancreatic β cell harbors α2-adrenergic and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptors on its plasma membrane to sense the corresponding ligands adrenaline/noradrenaline and GLP-1 to govern glucose-stimulated insulin secretion. However, it is not known whether these two signaling systems interact to gain the adequate and timely control of insulin release in response to glucose. The present work shows that the α2-adrenergic agonist clonidine concentration-dependently depresses glucose-stimulated insulin secretion from INS-1 cells. On the contrary, GLP-1 concentration-dependently potentiates insulin secretory response to glucose. Importantly, the present work reveals that subthreshold α2-adrenergic activation with clonidine counteracts GLP-1 potentiation of glucose-induced insulin secretion. This counteractory process relies on pertussis toxin- (PTX-) sensitive Gi proteins since it no longer occurs following PTX-mediated inactivation of Gi proteins. The counteraction of GLP-1 potentiation of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by subthreshold α2-adrenergic activation is likely to serve as a molecular mechanism for the delicate regulation of insulin release.
Histone Acetyltransferases as Regulators of Nonhistone Proteins: The Role of Interferon Regulatory Factor Acetylation on Gene Transcription
Authors: Masumi Atsuko
Published: December 2010

When studying transcription factors, it is necessary to investigate posttranslational modifications. Histone acetyltransferases (HATs) are typical of the modification enzymes involved in chromatin regulation. HATs acetylate the transcription factors (nonhistone proteins) as well as histones. Interferon regulatory factors (IRFs) are transcription factors that bind to the interferon regulatory element (IRF‐E) and are involved in regulating cell growth, differentiation, and the immune and hematopoietic systems. During the process of binding to a specific DNA element, IRFs also bind to coactivators such as HATs and become modified. This review looks at how IRFs associate with HATs, p300, and PCAF, and thereby contribute to transcriptional activation.
Blow Flies Were One of the Possible Candidates for Transmission of Highly Pathogenic H5N1 Avian Influenza Virus during the 2004 Outbreaks in Japan
Authors: Sawabe Kyoko , Hoshino Keita , Isawa Haruhiko , Sasaki Toshinori , Kim Kyeong Soon , Hayashi Toshihiko , Tsuda Yoshio , Kurahashi Hiromu , Kobayashi Mutsuo
Published: December 2010

The 2003-2004 H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreaks in Japan were the first such outbreaks in 79 years in Japan. Epidemic outbreaks have been occurring in Southeast Asia, with the most recent in 2010. Knowledge of the transmission route responsible for the HPAI outbreaks in these countries remains elusive. Our studies strongly suggested that field and laboratory studies focusing on mechanical transmission by blow flies should be considered to control H5N1 avian influenza outbreaks, in particular in epidemic areas, where there are high densities of different fly species throughout the year. In this paper, we review these field and laboratory entomological studies and discuss the possibility of blow flies transmitting H5N1 viruses.
Ceramide in Cystic Fibrosis: A Potential New Target for Therapeutic Intervention
Authors: Wojewodka Gabriella , De Sanctis Juan B. , Radzioch Danuta
Published: December 2010

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) are afflicted with many symptoms but the greatest challenge is the fight against chronic bacterial infections, leading to decreased lung function and ultimately death. Our group has recently found reduced levels of ceramides in CF patients and mice. Ceramides are sphingolipids involved in the structure of cell membranes but also participate in the inflammatory response, in cell signalling through membrane microdomains (lipid rafts), and in apoptosis. These characteristics of ceramides make them strong candidates for therapeutic intervention in CF. As more studies have come to evaluate the role of ceramide in CF, conflicting results have been described. This paper discusses various views regarding the potential role of ceramide in CF, summarizes methods of ceramide detection and their role in the regulation of cellular and molecular processes.
How Children Move: Activity Pattern Characteristics in Lean and Obese Chinese Children
Authors: McManus Alison M. , Chu Eva Y. W. , Yu Clare C. W. , Hu Yong
Published: December 2010

Physical activity and sedentary behavior are central components of lifetime weight control; however, our understanding of dimensions of these behaviors in childhood is limited. This study investigated free-living activity pattern characteristics and the individual variability of these characteristics in 84 lean and obese Chinese children (7–9 y) during the school day and over the weekend. Activity pattern characteristics were established from triaxial accelerometry (StayHealthy RT3). Results indicated that children's free-living activity is characterized by many short-duration, low-intensity bouts of movement. Obese children take longer rest intervals between bouts and engage in fewer activity bouts both at school and at home. Intraindividual variability in activity patterns was low during school days but high for the rest intervals between bouts and number of activity bouts per day at the weekend. Finding ways to reduce the rest time between bouts of movement and increase the number of movement bouts a child experiences each day is an important next step.
Epigenetic Regulation of Apoptosis and Cell Cycle in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Rao-Bindal Krithi , Kleinerman Eugenie S.
Published: December 2010

The role of genetic mutations in the development of osteosarcoma, such as alterations in p53 and Rb, is well understood. However, the significance of epigenetic mechanisms in the progression of osteosarcoma remains unclear and is increasingly being investigated. Recent evidence suggests that epigenetic alterations such as methylation and histone modifications of genes involved in cell cycle regulation and apoptosis may contribute to the pathogenesis of this tumor. Importantly, understanding the molecular mechanisms of regulation of these pathways may give insight into novel therapeutic strategies for patients with osteosarcoma. This paper serves to summarize the described epigenetic mechanisms in the tumorigenesis of osteosarcoma, specifically those pertaining to apoptosis and cell cycle regulation.
Lead Speciation and Bioavailability in Apatite-Amended Sediments
Authors: Scheckel Kirk G. , Williams Aaron G. B. , Mc Dermott Gregory , Gratson David , Neptune Dean , Ryan James A.
Published: December 2010

The in situ sequestration of lead (Pb) in sediment with a phosphate amendment was investigated by Pb speciation and bioavailability. Sediment Pb in preamendment samples was identified as galena (PbS) with trace amounts of absorbed Pb. Sediment exposed to atmospheric conditions underwent conversion to hydrocerussite and anglesite. Sediments mixed with apatite exhibited limited conversion to pyromorphite, the hypothesized end product. Conversion of PbS to pyromorphite is inhibited under reducing conditions, and pyromorphite formation appears limited to reaction with pore water Pb and PbS oxidation products. Porewater Pb values were decreased by 94% or more when sediment was amended with apatite. The acute toxicity of the sediment Pb was evaluated withHyalella aztecaand bioaccumulation of Pb withLumbriculus variegatus. The growth ofH. aztecamay be mildly inhibited in contaminated sediment, with apatite-amended sediments exhibiting on average a higher growth weight by approximately 20%. The bioaccumulation of Pb inL. variegatustissue decreased with increased phosphate loading in contaminated sediment. The study indicates limited effectiveness of apatite in sequestering Pb if present as PbS under reducing conditions, but sequestration of porewater Pb and stabilization of near-surface sediment may be a feasible and alternative approach to decreasing potential toxicity of Pb.
A Normal Range of KL-6/MUC1 Independent of Elevated SP-D Indicates a Better Prognosis in the Patients with Honeycombing on High-Resolution Computed Tomography
Authors: Hisata Shu , Kimura Yuichiro , Shibata Naoko , Ono Shuichi , Kobayashi Takao , Chiba Shigeki , Ohta Hiromitsu , Nukiwa Toshihiro , Ebina Masahito
Published: December 2010

Both SP-D and KL-6/MUC1 are established biomarkers of the interstitial pneumonias, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), but the causes and clinical outcomes based on their independent effects are not known. Eleven asymptomatic patients, detected with honeycombing on high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), were compared with 17 other IPF outpatients having slight respiratory symptoms and honeycombing as well. Although SP-D was increased in both groups, KL-6 was significantly higher in the symptomatic IPF group. When the patients (n=11) having both biomarkers elevated were compared with the other patients (n=6) with only SP-D elevated, the distribution of fibrotic lesions with honeycombing on HRCT was larger and the survival time was shorter in the patients having both biomarkers elevated. Immunohistochemical analysis also differentiated these biomarkers in the lung. These results suggest both a cause and the prognostic value of dissociation of these biomarkers.
Prenatal Brain Damage in Preeclamptic Animal Model Induced by Gestational Nitric Oxide Synthase Inhibition
Authors: Pellicer Begoña , Herraiz Sonia , Leal Antonio , Simón Carlos , Pellicer Antonio
Published: December 2010

Cerebral palsy is a major neonatal handicap with unknown aetiology. There is evidence that prenatal brain injury is the leading cause of CP. Severe placental pathology accounts for a high percentage of cases. Several factors predispose to prenatal brain damage but when and how they act is unclear. The aim of this paper was to determine if hypoxia during pregnancy leads to damage in fetal brain and to evaluate the localization of this injury. An animal model of chronic hypoxia produced by chronic administration of a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (L-NAME) was used to evaluate apoptotic activity in fetal brains and to localize the most sensitive areas. L-NAME reproduces a preeclamptic-like condition with increased blood pressure, proteinuria, growth restriction and intrauterine mortality. Apoptotic activity was increased in L-NAME brains and the most sensitive areas were the subventricular and pallidum zone. These results may explain the clinical features of CP. Further studies are needed.
Pathogenesis, Immunology, and Diagnosis of LatentMycobacterium tuberculosisInfection
Authors: Ahmad Suhail
Published: December 2010

Phagocytosis of tubercle bacilli by antigen-presenting cells in human lung alveoli initiates a complex infection process byMycobacterium tuberculosisand a potentially protective immune response by the host.M. tuberculosishas devoted a large part of its genome towards functions that allow it to successfully establish latent or progressive infection in the majority of infected individuals. The failure of immune-mediated clearance is due to multiple strategies adopted byM. tuberculosisthat blunt the microbicidal mechanisms of infected immune cells and formation of distinct granulomatous lesions that differ in their ability to support or suppress the persistence of viableM. tuberculosis. In this paper, current understanding of various immune processes that lead to the establishment of latentM. tuberculosisinfection, bacterial spreading, persistence, reactivation, and waning or elimination of latent infection as well as new diagnostic approaches being used for identification of latently infected individuals for possible control of tuberculosis epidemic are described.
Trial Wavefunctions for the Goldstone Mode in Quantum Hall Bilayers
Authors: Möller Gunnar , Simon Steven H.
Published: December 2010

Based on the known physics of the excitonic superfluid or 111 state of the quantum Hall bilayer, we create a simple trial wavefunction ansatz for constructing a low-energy branch of (Goldstone) excitations by taking the overall ground state and boosting one layer with respect to the other. This ansatz works extremely well for any interlayer spacing. For small , this is simply the physics of the Goldstone mode, whereas for large , this is a reflection of composite fermion physics. We find hints that certain aspects of composite fermion physics persist to low whereas certain aspects of Goldstone mode physics persist to high . Using these results, we show nonmonotonic behavior of the Goldstone mode velocity as a function of .
Double Photoionization of Endohedrally Confined Atoms
Authors: Colavecchia F. D. , Gasaneo G. , Mitnik D.
Published: December 2010

We study the double electronic emission by photon impact from ground state of two-electron atoms in the center of a model spherical fullerene, which is described by a square-well shell. Cross-sections for different well depth are computed within a separable model for the final state, and a configuration interaction state for the initial one. Triple differential cross-sections show a strong dependence on the well depth and on the energy of the emitted electrons, due to the delocalization of the electrons in the initial state. The fullerene potential also allows higher angular momenta partial waves to be included in the process, which modifies the well-known two-lobe cross-section from isolated atom.
Potential Application of Probiotics in the Prevention and Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: del Carmen Silvina , de Moreno de LeBlanc Alejandra , Miyoshi Anderson , Santos Rocha Clarissa , Azevedo Vasco , LeBlanc Jean Guy
Published: December 2010

Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) represent a heterogeneous group of microorganisms that are naturally present in many foods and possess a wide range of therapeutic properties. The aim of this paper is to present an overview of the current expanding knowledge of the mechanisms by which LAB and other probiotic microorganisms participate in the prevention and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases. These include changes in the gut microbiota, stimulation of the host immune responses, and reduction of the oxidative stress due to their antioxidant properties. A brief overview of the uses of genetically engineered LAB that produce either antioxidant enzymes (such as catalase and superoxide dismutase) or anti-inflammatory cytokines (such as IL-10) will also be discussed. This paper will show that probiotics should be considered in treatment protocols of IBD since they provide many beneficial effects and can enhance the effectiveness of traditional used medicines.
Tracer Diffusion Mechanism in Amorphous Solids
Authors: Hung P. K. , Kien P. H. , Hue H. V.
Published: December 2010

Tracer diffusion in amorphous solid is studied by mean of nB-bubble statistic. The nB-bubble is defined as a group of atoms around a spherical void and large bubble that represents a structural defect which could be eliminated under thermal annealing. It was found that amorphous alloys such as CoxB100−x (x=90, 81.5 and 70) and Fe80P20 suffer from a large number of vacancy bubbles which function like diffusion vehicle. The concentration of vacancy bubble weakly depends on temperature, but essentially on the relaxation degree of considered sample. The diffusion coefficient estimated for proposed mechanism via vacancy bubbles is in a reasonable agreement with experiment for actual amorphous alloys. The relaxation effect for tracer diffusion in amorphous alloys is interpreted by the elimination of vacancy bubbles under thermal annealing.
Androgen Receptor Signalling in Prostate Cancer: The Functional Consequences of Acetylation
Authors: Lavery Derek N. , Bevan Charlotte L.
Published: December 2010

The androgen receptor (AR) is a ligand activated transcription factor and member of the steroid hormone receptor (SHR) subfamily of nuclear receptors. In the early stages of prostate carcinogenesis, tumour growth is dependent on androgens, and AR directly mediates these effects by modulating gene expression. During transcriptional regulation, the AR recruits numerous cofactors with acetylation‐modifying enzymatic activity, the best studied include p300/CBP and the p160/SRC family of coactivators. It is known that recruitment of histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs) is key in fine‐tuning responses to androgens and is thus likely to play a role in prostate cancer progression. Further, these proteins can also modify the AR itself. The functional consequences of AR acetylation, the role of modifying enzymes in relation to AR transcriptional response, and prostate cancer will be discussed.
Treatment of Obesity-Related Complications with Novel Classes of Naturally Occurring PPAR Agonists
Authors: Bassaganya-Riera Josep , Guri Amir J. , Hontecillas Raquel
Published: December 2010

The prevalence of obesity and its associated comorbidities has grown to epidemic proportions in the US and worldwide. Thus, developing safe and effective therapeutic approaches against these widespread and debilitating diseases is important and timely. Activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) α, γ, and δ through several classes of pharmaceuticals can prevent or treat a variety of metabolic and inflammatory diseases, including type II diabetes (T2D). Thus, PPARs represent important molecular targets for developing novel and better treatments for a wide range of debilitating and widespread obesity-related diseases and disorders. However, available PPAR γ agonistic drugs such as Avandia have significant adverse side effects, including weight gain, fluid retention, hepatotoxicity, and congestive heart failure. An alternative to synthetic agonists of PPAR γ is the discovery and development of naturally occurring and safer nutraceuticals that may be dual or pan PPAR agonists. The purpose of this paper is to summarize the health effects of three plant-derived PPAR agonists: abscisic acid (ABA), punicic acid (PUA), and catalpic acid (CAA) in the prevention and treatment of chronic inflammatory and metabolic diseases and disorders.
Comorbidity and Family Factors Associated with Selective Mutism
Authors: Buzzella Brian A. , Ehrenreich-May Jill , Pincus Donna B.
Published: December 2010

Recent findings suggest that Selective Mutism (SM) is best conceptualized as a childhood anxiety disorder and that oppositional behavior may or may not be a significant part of the clinical picture. Twenty-nine mothers of children with SM and 28 mothers of children who did not meet diagnostic criteria for any Axis I disorder (a community comparison group) completed parental self-report questionnaires and clinician-rated interviews assessing anxiety and oppositional behavior, parental psychopathology, and family factors with hypothesized relationships with childhood anxiety. Findings suggested that children with SM experienced more anxiety than those in the community comparison group, with significantly higher levels of social anxiety, rumination, and physical symptoms reported. Mothers of children with SM reported greater monitoring of their children's activities, but they did not significantly differ from community comparison group mothers on reports of other parenting behaviors. Such findings may have important implications for guiding family involvement in psychosocial interventions.
Role of Extracellular Hemoglobin in Thrombosis and Vascular Occlusion in Patients with Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Zhou Zhou , Behymer Molly , Guchhait Prasenjit
Published: December 2010

Sickle cell anemia (SCA) is a common hemolytic disorder caused by a gene mutation in theβ-globin subunit of hemoglobin (Hb) and affects millions of people. The intravascular hemolysis releases excessive amount of extracellular hemoglobin (ECHb) into plasma that causes many cellular dysfunctions in patients with SCA. ECHb scavenges NO which promotes crisis events such as vasoconstriction, thrombosis and hypercoagulation. ECHb and its degradation product, heme, are known to cause oxidative damage to the vessel wall and stimulate the expression of adhesive protein ligands on vascular endothelium. Our study shows that ECHb binds potently to VWF—largest multimeric glycoprotein in circulation—through the A2-domain, and significantly inhibits its cleavage by the metalloprotease ADAMTS13. Furthermore, a subpopulation of VWF multimers bound to ECHb exists in significant amount, accounting for about 14% of total plasma VWF, in SCD patients. The Hb-bound VWF multimers are resistant to ADAMTS13, and are hyperactive in aggregating platelets. Thus, the data suggest that Hb-bound VWF multimers are ultralarge and hyperactive because they are resistant to the protease. The Hb-bound VWF multimers are elevated parallely with the level of ECHb in patients' plasma, and is associated with the pathogenesis of thrombosis and vascular occlusion in SCA.
Depressive Symptoms and Deliberate Self-Harm in a Community Sample of Adolescents: A Prospective Study
Authors: Lundh Lars-Gunnar , Wångby-Lundh Margit , Paaske My , Ingesson Stina , Bjärehed Jonas
Published: December 2010

The associations between depressive symptoms and deliberate self-harm were studied by means of a 2-wave longitudinal design in a community sample of 1052 young adolescents, with longitudinal data for 83.6% of the sample. Evidence was found for a bidirectional relationship in girls, with depressive symptoms being a risk factor for increased self-harm one year later and self-harm a risk factor for increased depressive symptoms. Cluster analysis of profiles of depressive symptoms led to the identification of two clusters with clear depressive profiles (one severe, the other mild/moderate) which were both characterized by an overrepresentation of girls and elevated levels of self-harm. Clusters with more circumscribed problems were also identified; of these, significantly increased levels of self-harm were found in a cluster characterized by negative self-image and in a cluster characterized by dysphoric relations to parents. It is suggested that self-harm serves more to regulate negative self-related feelings than sadness.
Coherence and Optical Emission from Bilayer Exciton Condensates
Authors: Snoke D. W.
Published: December 2010

Experiments aimed at demonstrating Bose-Einstein condensation of excitons in two types of experiments with bilayer structures (coupled quantum wells) are reviewed, with an emphasis on the basic effects. Bose-Einstein condensation implies the existence of a macroscopic coherence, also known as off-diagonal long-range order, and proposed tests and past claims for coherence in these excitonic systems are discussed.
Biomethane Production as an Alternative Bioenergy Source from Codigesters Treating Municipal Sludge and Organic Fraction of Municipal Solid Wastes
Authors: Ersahin M. Evren , Yangin Gomec Cigdem , Dereli R. Kaan , Arikan Osman , Ozturk Izzet
Published: December 2010

Energy recovery potential of a mesophilic co‐digester treating OFMSW and primary sludge at an integrated biomethanization plant was investigated based on feasibility study results. Since landfilling is still the main solid waste disposal method in Turkey, land scarcity will become one of the most important obstacles. Restrictions for biodegradable waste disposal to sanitary landfills in EU Landfill Directive and uncontrolled long‐term contamination with gas emissions and leachate necessitate alternative management strategies due to rapid increase in MSW production. Moreover, since energy contribution from renewable resources will be required more in the future with increasing oil prices and dwindling supplies of conventional energy sources, the significance of biogas as a renewable fuel has been increased in the last decade. Results indicated that almost 93% of annual total cost can be recovered if 100% renewable energy subsidy is implemented. Besides, considering the potential revenue when replacing transport fuels, about 26 heavy good vehicles or 549 cars may be powered per year by the biogas produced from the proposed biomethanization plant (PE = 100,000; XPS = 61 g TS/PE·day; XSS-OFMSW = 50 g TS/PE·day).
Disruption of a Sirt1-Dependent Autophagy Checkpoint in the Prostate Results in Prostatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia Lesion Formation
Authors: Powell Michael J. , Casimiro Mathew C. , Cordon-Cardo Carlos , He Xiaohong , Yeow Wen-Shuz , Wang Chenguang , McCue Peter A. , McBurney Michael W. , Pestell Richard G.
Published: December 2010

The Sirtuin family of proteins (SIRT) encode a group of evolutionarily conserved, NAD-dependent histone deacetylases, involved in many biological pathways. SIRT1, the human homologue of the yeast Silent Information Regulator 2 (Sir2) gene, deacetylates histones, p300, p53, and the androgen receptor. Autophagy is required for the degradation of damaged organelles and long-lived proteins, as well as for the development of glands such as the breast and prostate. Herein, homozygous deletion of the Sirt1 gene in mice resulted in prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) associated with reduced autophagy. Genome-wide gene expression analysis of Sirt1−/− prostates demonstrated that endogenous Sirt1 repressed androgen responsive gene expression and induced autophagy in the prostate. Sirt1 induction of autophagy occurred at the level of autophagosome maturation and completion in cultured prostate cancer cells. These studies provide novel evidence for a checkpoint function of Sirt1 in the development of PIN and further highlight a role for SIRT1 as a tumor suppressor in the prostate. Cancer Res; 71(3); 964–75. ©2010 AACR.
The Aging Heart, Myocardial Fibrosis, and its Relationship to Circulating C-Type Natriuretic Peptide
Authors: Sangaralingham S. Jeson , Huntley Brenda K. , Martin Fernando L. , McKie Paul M. , Bellavia Diego , Ichiki Tomoko , Harders Gerald E. , Chen Horng H. , Burnett John C.
Published: December 2010

Myocardial aging is characterized by left ventricular (LV) fibrosis leading to diastolic and systolic dysfunction. Studies have established the potent antifibrotic and antiproliferative properties of C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP); however, the relationship between circulating CNP, LV fibrosis, and associated changes in LV function with natural aging are undefined. Accordingly, we characterized the relationship of plasma CNP with LV fibrosis and function in 2-, 11-, and 20-month–old male Fischer rats. Further in vitro, we established the antiproliferative actions of CNP and the participation of the clearance receptor using adult human cardiac fibroblasts. Here we establish for the first time that a progressive decline in circulating CNP characterizes natural aging and is strongly associated with a reciprocal increase in LV fibrosis that precedes impairment of diastolic and systolic function. Additionally, we demonstrate in cultured adult human cardiac fibroblasts that the direct antiproliferative actions of high-dose CNP may involve a non-cGMP pathway via the clearance receptor. Together, these studies provide new insights into myocardial aging and the relationship to the antifibrotic and antiproliferative peptide CNP.
Pathways Leading to Atherosclerosis
Authors: Kerkhof Gerthe F. , Duivenvoorden Hugo J. , Leunissen Ralph W.J. , Hokken-Koelega Anita C.S.
Published: December 2010

Several risk factors of cardiovascular diseases have been studied using direct association measures. Because the incidence of obesity and cardiovascular diseases is rising, it is important to correctly model these risk factors involved in development of cardiovascular diseases. Until now, statistical methods lacked to achieve this goal because of complex interrelationships involved. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is an advanced statistical technique that enables solving this issue. The aims of this study were to investigate whether SEM could unravel pathways involved in cardiovascular diseases and to visualize these pathways in a model. In 322 healthy participants of the PROGRAM (PROgramming factors for GRowth And Metabolism) study, 18 to 24 years of age, we explored pathways leading to atherosclerosis measured by carotid intima-media thickness. Using SEM, we were able to model these pathways for males and females using body fat percentage, serum lipid levels, and blood pressure. We are the first to present a model of complex direct and indirect effects of fat mass leading to atherosclerosis using SEM. Both male and female path-model had an excellent fit. Fat mass had a significant effect on carotid intima-media thickness through various pathways, with the largest effect size on carotid intima-media thickness via blood pressure. SEM showed that the pathways differed between males and females, with a larger effect of serum lipids on carotid intima-media thickness in males. In conclusion, SEM is suitable in identifying models to unravel potential causal pathways in complex origins of diseases. We present a model involving several pathways, showing that fat mass has an influence on risk factors for atherosclerosis, already at 21 years of age.
Gender Differences in Pressure-Natriuresis and Renal Autoregulation
Authors: Hilliard Lucinda M. , Nematbakhsh Mehdi , Kett Michelle M. , Teichman Elleesha , Sampson Amanda K. , Widdop Robert E. , Evans Roger G. , Denton Kate M.
Published: December 2010

Sexual dimorphism in arterial pressure regulation has been observed in humans and animal models. The mechanisms underlying this gender difference are not fully known. Previous studies in rats have shown that females excrete more salt than males at a similar arterial pressure. The renin-angiotensin system is a powerful regulator of arterial pressure and body fluid volume. This study examined the role of the angiotensin type 2 receptor (AT
2
R) in pressure-natriuresis in male and female rats because AT
2
R expression has been reported to be enhanced in females. Renal function was examined at renal perfusion pressures of 120, 100, and 80 mm Hg in vehicle-treated and AT
2
R antagonist-treated (PD123319; 1 mg/kg/h) groups. The pressure-natriuresis relationship was gender-dependent such that it was shifted upward in female vs male rats (
P
<0.001). AT
2
R blockade modulated the pressure-natriuresis relationship, shifting the curve downward in male (
P
<0.01) and female (
P
<0.01) rats to a similar extent. In females, AT
2
R blockade also reduced the lower end of the autoregulatory range of renal blood flow (
P
<0.05) and glomerular filtration rate (
P
<0.01). Subsequently, the renal blood flow response to graded angiotensin II infusion was also measured with and without AT
2
R blockade. We found that AT
2
R blockade enhanced the renal vasoconstrictor response to angiotensin II in females but not in males (
P
<0.05). In conclusion, the AT
2
R modulates pressure-natriuresis, allowing the same level of sodium to be excreted at a lower pressure in both genders. However, a gender-specific role for the AT
2
R in renal autoregulation was evident in females, which may be a direct vascular AT
2
R effect.
Near-Surface Characteristics of the Turbulence Structure during a Mountain-Wave Event
Authors: Večenaj Željko , De Wekker Stephan F. J. , Grubišić Vanda
Published: December 2010

A case study of mountain-wave-induced turbulence observed during the Terrain-Induced Rotor Experiment (T-REX) in Owens Valley, California, is presented. During this case study, large spatial and temporal variability in aerosol backscatter associated with mountain-wave activity was observed in the valley atmosphere by an aerosol lidar. The corresponding along- and cross-valley turbulence structure was investigated using data collected by three 30-m flux towers equipped with six levels of ultrasonic anemometers. Time series of turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) show higher levels of TKE on the sloping western part of the valley when compared with the valley center. The magnitude of the TKE is highly dependent on the averaging time on the western slope, however, indicating that mesoscale transport associated with mountain-wave activity is important here. Analysis of the TKE budget shows that in the central parts of the valley mechanical production of turbulence dominates and is balanced by turbulent dissipation, whereas advective effects appear to play a dominant role over the western slope. In agreement with the aerosol backscatter observations, spatial variability of a turbulent-length-scale parameter suggests the presence of larger turbulent eddies over the western slope than along the valley center. The data and findings from this case study can be used to evaluate the performance of turbulence parameterization schemes in mountainous terrain.
Dent Overlap in Hailpads: Error Estimation and Measurement Correction
Authors: Palencia Covadonga , Castro Amaya , Giaiotti Dario , Stel Fulvio , Fraile Roberto
Published: December 2010

The measurement of the physical characteristics of hailstones reaching the ground is usually carried out by means of hailpads, on which the impact of hailstones leaves dents. Hailstone dents provide information about parameters, such as the number N of hailstones, their size M, and their kinetic energy E. In the case of intense hailfalls, however, the dents often overlap and the final measurement may not be totally reliable. This paper presents a computerized simulation with the aim of assessing measurement errors caused by dent overlap. The simulated dents represent several random hailfalls with both exponential size distributions and monodispersed size distributions. The simulated hailpads were measured following the procedure employed in the case of hailpads exposed to authentic hailfalls, and it was thus possible to assess the error due to dent overlap. The results show that dent overlap makes it impossible to measure all the dents, which means that in a real hailfall the number of hailstones registered will often be lower than the number of hailstones that actually hit the ground (up to 25% may go undetected). Consequently, the energy and mass of the hailstones are also underestimated (they may be up to 50% higher than the values registered on a hailpad). The maximum size registered, however, does not depend on the degree of overlapping and neither does the slope parameter λ of the exponential distribution, except when λ takes higher values. Finally, the authors suggest a heuristic correction of the data obtained by real hailpads based on the results of the simulations. An example is provided that applies these corrections to the 228 hailfalls registered by the Italian hailpad network over a period of 10 yr. The results show that, on average, the correction applied because of overlapping increases the number of hailstones in 3.2%, the mass in 1.9%, and the energy in 5.4%. However, there are cases in which these corrections reached much higher values of up to 6.9% in N and M, and up to 25.2% in E. It is therefore advisable to correct dent overlap before carrying out a regional climatic study of hail, since this study would certainly be affected by the errors accumulated by all the hailpads.