bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pneumonia risk in COPD patients receiving inhaled corticosteroids alone or in combination: TORCH study results
Authors: Crim C. , Calverley P. M. A. , Anderson J. A. , Celli B. , Ferguson G. T. , Jenkins C. , Jones P. W. , Willits L. R. , Yates J. C. , Vestbo J.
Published: May 2009

Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are important in reducing exacerbation frequency associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, little is known about the risk of associated infections.

In apost hocanalysis of the TOwards a Revolution in COPD Health (TORCH) study, we analysed and identified potential risk factors for adverse event reports of pneumonia in this randomised, double-blind trial comparing twice-daily inhaled salmeterol (SAL) 50 μg, fluticasone propionate (FP) 500 μg, and the combination (SFC) with placebo in 6,184 patients with moderate-to-severe COPD over 3 yrs.

Despite a higher withdrawal rate in the placebo arm, after adjusting for time on treatment, a greater rate of pneumonia was reported in the FP and SFC treatment arms (84 and 88 per 1,000 treatment-yrs, respectively) compared with SAL and placebo (52 and 52 per 1,000 treatment-yrs, respectively). Risk factors for pneumonia were age ≥55 yrs, forced expiratory volume in 1 s <50% predicted, COPD exacerbations in the year prior to the study, worse Medical Research Council dyspnoea scores and body mass index <25 kg·m−2. No increase in pneumonia deaths with SFC was observed; this could not be concluded for FP.

Despite the benefits of ICS-containing regimens in COPD management, healthcare providers should remain vigilant regarding the possible development of pneumonia as a complication in COPD patients receiving such therapies.
Role of the tachykinin NK1 receptor in a murine model of cigarette smoke-induced pulmonary inflammation
Authors: De Swert Katelijne O , Bracke Ken R , Demoor Tine , Brusselle Guy G , Joos Guy F
Published: May 2009

Background

The tachykinins, substance P and neurokinin A, present in sensory nerves and inflammatory cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells, are considered as pro-inflammatory agents. Inflammation of the airways and lung parenchyma plays a major role in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and increased tachykinin levels are recovered from the airways of COPD patients. The aim of our study was to clarify the involvement of the tachykinin NK1receptor, the preferential receptor for substance P, in cigarette smoke (CS)-induced pulmonary inflammation and emphysema in a mouse model of COPD.

Methods

Tachykinin NK1receptor knockout (NK1-R-/-) mice and their wild type controls (all in a mixed 129/sv-C57BL/6 background) were subjected to sub acute (4 weeks) or chronic (24 weeks) exposure to air or CS. 24 hours after the last exposure, pulmonary inflammation and development of emphysema were evaluated.

Results

Sub acute and chronic exposure to CS resulted in a substantial accumulation of inflammatory cells in the airways of both WT and NK1-R-/-mice. However, the CS-induced increase in macrophages and dendritic cells was significantly impaired in NK1-R-/-mice, compared to WT controls, and correlated with an attenuated release of MIP-3α/CCL20 and TGF-β1. Chronic exposure to CS resulted in development of pulmonary emphysema in WT mice. NK1-R-/-mice showed already enlarged airspaces upon air-exposure. Upon CS-exposure, the NK1-R-/-mice did not develop additional destruction of the lung parenchyma. Moreover, an impaired production of MMP-12 by alveolar macrophages upon CS-exposure was observed in these KO mice. In a pharmacological validation experiment using the NK1receptor antagonist RP 67580, we confirmed the protective effect of absence of the NK1receptor on CS-induced pulmonary inflammation.

Conclusion

These data suggest that the tachykinin NK1receptor is involved in the accumulation of macrophages and dendritic cells in the airways upon CS-exposure and in the development of smoking-induced emphysema. As both inflammation of the airways and parenchymal destruction are important characteristics of COPD, these findings may have implications in the future treatment of this devastating disease.
siRNA-based targeting of antiapoptotic genes can reverse chemoresistance in P-glycoprotein expressing chondrosarcoma cells
Authors: Kim Dae Won , Kim Kyung-Ok , Shin Mike J , Ha Jung Hee , Seo Sung Wook , Yang Jay , Lee Francis Y
Published: May 2009

Background

High expression of P-glycoprotein is one of the well-known mechanisms of chemoresistance in chondrosarcomas. However, the role of antiapoptotic proteins, a common mechanism responsible for chemoresistance in other tumors, has not been well studied in chondrosarcomas. We examined the importance of P-glycoprotein and antiapoptotic proteins in the chemoresistance to doxorubicin of two Grade II chondrosarcoma cell lines, JJ012 and SW1353.

Results

We confirmed that both chondrosarcoma cell types expressed P-glycoprotein and antiapoptotic proteins (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and XIAP). siRNA knockdown as well as pharmacologic inhibitors of cell survival proteins (Bcl-2, Bcl-xL and XIAP) enhanced apoptosis of chemoresistant chondrosarcoma cells by up to 5.5 fold at 0.1 μmol and 5.5 fold at 1 μmol doxorubicin. These chemosensitizing effects were comparable to those of P-glycoprotein inhibition by siRNA or pharmacologic inhibitor.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that antiapoptotic proteins play a significant role in the chemoresistance of chondrosarcoma cells independent of P-glycoprotein. Based on the results, a new siRNA-based therapeutic strategy targeting antiapoptotic genes can be designed to overcome the chemoresistance of chondrosarcomas which is often conferred by P-glycoprotein.
Two-stimuli manipulation of a biological motor
Authors: Ristic Zorica , Vitali Marco , Duci Alessandro , Goetze Christian , Kemnitz Klaus , Zuschratter Werner , Lill Holger , Bald Dirk
Published: May 2009

F1-ATPase is an enzyme acting as a rotary nano-motor. During catalysis subunits of this enzyme complex rotate relative to other parts of the enzyme. Here we demonstrate that the combination of two input stimuli causes stop of motor rotation. Application of either individual stimulus did not significantly influence motor motion. These findings may contribute to the development of logic gates using single biological motor molecules.
Green tea polyphenol epigallocatechin-3-gallate inhibits advanced glycation end product-induced expression of tumor necrosis factor-α and matrix metalloproteinase-13 in human chondrocytes
Authors: Rasheed Zafar , Anbazhagan Arivarasu N , Akhtar Nahid , Ramamurthy Sangeetha , Voss Frank R , Haqqi Tariq M
Published: May 2009

Introduction

The major risk factor for osteoarthritis (OA) is aging, but the mechanisms underlying this risk are only partly understood. Age-related accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) can activate chondrocytes and induce the production of proinflammatory cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). In the present study, we examined the effect of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) on AGE-modified-BSA (AGE-BSA)-induced activation and production of TNFα and MMP-13 in human OA chondrocytes.

Methods

Human chondrocytes were derived from OA cartilage by enzymatic digestion and stimulated with in vitro-generated AGE-BSA. Gene expression of TNFα and MMP-13 was measured by quantitative RT-PCR. TNFα protein in culture medium was determined using cytokine-specific ELISA. Western immunoblotting was used to analyze the MMP-13 production in the culture medium, phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and the activation of NF-κB. DNA binding activity of NF-κB p65 was determined using a highly sensitive and specific ELISA. IκB kinase (IKK) activity was determined using an in vitro kinase activity assay. MMP-13 activity in the culture medium was assayed by gelatin zymography.

Results

EGCG significantly decreased AGE-stimulated gene expression and production of TNFα and MMP-13 in human chondrocytes. The inhibitory effect of EGCG on the AGE-BSA-induced expression of TNFα and MMP-13 was mediated at least in part via suppression of p38-MAPK and JNK activation. In addition, EGCG inhibited the phosphorylating activity of IKKβ kinase in an in vitro activity assay and EGCG inhibited the AGE-mediated activation and DNA binding activity of NF-κB by suppressing the degradation of its inhibitory protein IκBα in the cytoplasm.

Conclusions

These novel pharmacological actions of EGCG on AGE-BSA-stimulated human OA chondrocytes provide new suggestions that EGCG or EGCG-derived compounds may inhibit cartilage degradation by suppressing AGE-mediated activation and the catabolic response in human chondrocytes.
Triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 expression on monocytes is associated with inflammation but not with infection in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Ferat-Osorio Eduardo , Wong-Baeza Isabel , Esquivel-Callejas Noemí , Figueroa-Figueroa Silvia , Duarte-Rojo Andrés , Guzmán-Valdivia-Gómez Gilberto , Rodea-Rosas Heriberto , Torres-González Rubén , Sánchez-Fernández Patricio , Arriaga-Pizano Lourdes , López-Macías Constantino , Robles-Díaz Guillermo , Isibasi Armando
Published: May 2009

Introduction

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is usually a mild and self-limiting disease, but some patients develop a severe form that is associated with high mortality. In AP, local inflammation is followed first by the systemic inflammatory response syndrome and then by the compensatory anti-inflammatory response syndrome, which is defined by low human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DR expression on monocytes, increased concentration of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, and decreased monocyte function. Our aim was to measure the expression of triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells (TREM)-1 (a proposed marker of infection or inflammation) and HLA-DR on monocytes, and the serum concentrations of IL-6 (a proinflammatory cytokine) and IL-10 in patients with AP to determine whether these markers can identify patients at high risk of developing severe AP or infection.

Methods

Fifty healthy volunteers, 18 patients with mild AP, and 11 patients with severe AP were included in this study. Samples were taken at admission and one and three days later. TREM-1 and HLA-DR expression was evaluated by flow cytometry, and soluble TREM-1, IL-6 and IL-10 concentrations were measured by ELISA.

Results

TREM-1 expression was higher in patients with AP than in healthy volunteers, but there was no difference between patients with mild and severe AP. TREM-1 expression was not associated with mortality or with the presence of infection. Soluble TREM-1 concentration in serum was higher in non-survivors than in survivors. HLA-DR expression was lower and IL-6 concentration higher in patients with severe AP and in infected patients.

Conclusions

Increased TREM-1 expression was associated with the presence of inflammation but not infection in AP. In patients with AP, low HLA-DR expression and high IL-6 concentration could predict severity and infection in samples taken shortly after admission.
Brain natriuretic peptide levels have diagnostic and prognostic capability for cardio-renal syndrome type 4 in intensive care unit patients
Authors: Park Sunghoon , Cho Goo-Yeong , Kim Sung Gyun , Hwang Yong Il , Kang Hye-Ryun , Jang Seung Hun , Kim Dong-Gyu , Song Young Rim , Bae Young-A , Jung Ki-Suck
Published: May 2009

Introduction

Limited data are available regarding the diagnostic and prognostic utility of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the intensive care unit (ICU) setting.

Methods

All patients with CKD and a serum creatinine (Cr) of 2.0 mg/dl or higher admitted to the ICU between January 2006 and September 2007 were enrolled in this study. The CKD group was divided according to the presence or absence of acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF) into CKD + ADHF and CKD - ADHF groups, respectively. Other patients with ADHF having low Cr (<1.2 mg/dl) in the coronary care unit were also recruited as a control group during the same period. BNP levels at the time of admission (admission BNP) were compared amongst these groups. We then sought to determine whether BNP levels could predict the outcome in patients with CKD.

Results

Of 136 patients with CKD for whom data were available, including 58 on dialysis (42.6%), 81 (59.6%) had ADHF and their estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 12.8 ± 7.3 ml/min/1.73 m2. BNP levels at admission were 2708.6 ± 1246.9, 567.9 ± 491.7 and 1418.9 ± 1126.5 pg/ml in the CKD + ADHF, CKD - ADHF and control groups (n = 33), respectively (P = 0.000). The optimal cutoff level in patients with CKD was 1020.5 pg/ml (area under the curve = 0.944) to detect ADHF from the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. This level was not associated with in-hospital mortality, all-cause death or a composite event (all-cause death and/or new cardiac event). However, a borderline significant association was observed with new cardiac events (hazard ratio (HR) = 4.551; P = 0.078) during the follow-up period (521.1 ± 44.7 days). Furthermore, continuous variables of BNP and BNP quartiles were significantly associated with new cardiac events in the multivariate Cox model (HR = 1.001, P = 0.041; HR = 2.212, P = 0.018).

Conclusions

The findings suggest that the level of BNP at the time of admission may be a useful marker for detecting ADHF and predicting cardiac events in patients with CKD in the ICU setting.
Inhibition of Forkhead Box O1 Protects Pancreatic β-Cells against Dexamethasone-Induced Dysfunction
Authors: Zhang Xiongfei , Yong Wei , Lv Jinghuan , Zhu Yunxia , Zhang Jingjing , Chen Fang , Zhang Rihua , Yang Tao , Sun Yujie , Han Xiao
Published: May 2009

Forkhead Box O1 (FoxO1) is a key transcription regulator of insulin/IGF-I signaling pathway, and its activity can be increased by dexamethasone (DEX) in several cell types. However, the role of FoxO1 in DEX-induced pancreatic β-cell dysfunction has not been fully understood. Therefore, in this study, we investigated whether FoxO1 could mediate DEX-induced β-cell dysfunction and the possible underlying mechanisms in pancreatic β-cell line RINm5F cells and primary rat islet. We found that DEX markedly increased FoxO1 mRNA and protein expression and decreased FoxO1 phosphorylation through the Akt pathway, which resulted in an increase in active FoxO1 in RINm5F cells and isolated rat islets. Activated FoxO1 subsequently inhibited pancreatic duodenal homeobox-1 expression and induced nuclear exclusion of pancreatic duodenal homeobox-1. Knockdown of FoxO1 by RNA interference restored the expression of pancreatic duodenal homeobox-1 and prevented DEX-induced dysfunction of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion in rat islets. Together, the results of present study demonstrate that FoxO1 is integrally involved in DEX-induced inhibition of pancreatic duodenal homeobox-1 and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion dysfunction in pancreatic islet β-cells. Inhibition of FoxO1 can effectively protect β-cells against DEX-induced dysfunction.
Regulation of luminal acidification in the male reproductive tract via cell–cell crosstalk
Authors: Shum Winnie W. C. , Da Silva Nicolas , Brown Dennis , Breton Sylvie
Published: May 2009

In the epididymis, spermatozoa acquire their ability to become motile and to fertilize an egg. A luminal acidic pH and a low bicarbonate concentration help keep spermatozoa in a quiescent state during their maturation and storage in this organ. Net proton secretion is crucial to maintain the acidity of the luminal fluid in the epididymis. A sub-population of epithelial cells, the clear cells, express high levels of the proton-pumping V-ATPase in their apical membrane and are important contributors to luminal acidification. This review describes selected aspects of V-ATPase regulation in clear cells. The assembly of a particular set of V-ATPase subunit isoforms governs the targeting of the pump to the apical plasma membrane. Regulation of V-ATPase-dependent proton secretion occurs via recycling mechanisms. The bicarbonate-activated adenylyl cyclase is involved in the non-hormonal regulation of V-ATPase recycling, following activation of bicarbonate secretion by principal cells. The V-ATPase is also regulated in a paracrine manner by luminal angiotensin II by activation of the angiotensin II type 2 receptor (AGTR2), which is located in basal cells. Basal cells have the remarkable property of extending long and slender cytoplasmic projections that cross the tight junction barrier to monitor the luminal environment. Clear cells are activated by a nitric oxide signal that originates from basal cells. Thus, a complex interplay between the different cell types present in the epithelium leads to activation of the luminal acidifying capacity of the epididymis, a process that is crucial for sperm maturation and storage.
High rates of HCO3– secretion and Cl– absorption against adverse gradients in the marine teleost intestine: the involvement of an electrogenic anion exchanger and H+-pump metabolon?
Authors: Grosell M. , Mager E. M. , Williams C. , Taylor J. R.
Published: May 2009

Anion exchange contributes significantly to intestinal Cl–absorption in marine teleost fish and is thus vital for successful osmoregulation. This anion exchange process leads to high luminal HCO3– concentrations (up to ∼100 mmol l–1) and high pH and results in the formation of CaCO3 precipitates in the intestinal lumen. Recent advances in our understanding of the transport processes involved in intestinal anion exchange in marine teleost fish include the demonstration of a role for the H+-pump (V-ATPase) in apical H+ extrusion and the presence of an electrogenic(nHCO3–/Cl–) exchange protein(SLC26a6). The H+-V-ATPase defends against cellular acidification,which might otherwise occur as a consequence of the high rates of base secretion. In addition, apical H+ extrusion probably maintains lower HCO3– concentrations in the unstirred layer at the apical surface than in the bulk luminal fluids and thus facilitates continued anion exchange. Furthermore, H+-V-ATPase activity hyperpolarizes the apical membrane potential that provides the driving force for apical electrogenic nHCO3–/Cl– exchange, which appears to occur against both Cl– and HCO3– electrochemical gradients. We propose that a similar coupling between apical H+ extrusion and nHCO3–/Cl– exchange accounts for Cl– uptake in freshwater fish and amphibians against very steep Cl– gradients.
Molecular physiology and genetics of Na+-independent SLC4 anion exchangers
Authors: Alper Seth L.
Published: May 2009

Plasmalemmal Cl–/HCO3–exchangers are encoded by the SLC4 and SLC26 gene superfamilies, and function to regulate intracellular pH,[Cl–] and cell volume. The Cl–/HCO3– exchangers of polarized epithelial cells also contribute to transepithelial secretion and reabsorption of acid–base equivalents and Cl–. This review focuses on Na+-independent electroneutral Cl–/HCO3– exchangers of the SLC4 family. Human SLC4A1/AE1 mutations cause the familial erythroid disorders of spherocytic anemia, stomatocytic anemia and ovalocytosis. A largely discrete set of AE1 mutations causes familial distal renal tubular acidosis. The Slc4a2/Ae2–/– mouse dies before weaning with achlorhydria and osteopetrosis. A hypomorphic Ae2–/– mouse survives to exhibit male infertility with defective spermatogenesis and a syndrome resembling primary biliary cirrhosis. A human SLC4A3/AE3 polymorphism is associated with seizure disorder, and the Ae3–/– mouse has increased seizure susceptibility. The transport mechanism of mammalian SLC4/AE polypeptides is that of electroneutral Cl–/anion exchange,but trout erythroid Ae1 also mediates Cl– conductance. Erythroid Ae1 may mediate the DIDS-sensitive Cl– conductance of mammalian erythrocytes, and, with a single missense mutation, can mediate electrogenic SO42–/Cl– exchange. AE1 trafficking in polarized cells is regulated by phosphorylation and by interaction with other proteins. AE2 exhibits isoform-specific patterns of acute inhibition by acidic intracellular pH and independently by acidic extracellular pH. In contrast, AE2 is activated by hypertonicity and, in a pH-independent manner, by ammonium and by hypertonicity. A growing body of structure–function and interaction data, together with emerging information about physiological function and structure, is advancing our understanding of SLC4 anion exchangers.
Construction, performance, and thermal design of plate heat exchangers
Authors: Mehrabian M A
Published: May 2009

Much of design data for plate heat exchangers remain proprietary. A step by step methodology for determination of the exchanger size and internal geometry from the knowledge of process data is scarce. Commercial computer codes do not give the user accessibility to mathematical modelling. Engineers do not usually understand the terminology and geometry of these exchangers. This article presents a manual method for thermal design of plate heat exchangers based on physically meaningful estimations, calculations, and comparisons. When there is no close agreement, it may be necessary to change one or more of the design parameters, i.e. channel (passage) velocities, wall temperatures, or corrugation inclination angle. Considerable skill and judgment is required by the thermal design engineer at this stage to decide how the tentative design should be changed to provide a rapid solution. The experienced design engineer is often able to judge on the final decision from the first or second trial designs.
Performance optimization for an open-cycle gas turbine power plant with a refrigeration cycle for compressor inlet air cooling. Part 2: Power and efficiency optimization
Authors: Zhang W , Chen L , Sun F
Published: May 2009

The power and efficiency of the open cycle gas turbine power plant with a refrigeration cycle for compressor inlet air cooling with pressure drop irreversibilities are optimized based on the model established using finite time thermodynamics in Part 1 of this article by adjusting the mass flowrate (or the distribution of pressure losses along the flow path). It is shown that there are optimal air mass flowrates (or the distribution of pressure losses along the flow path) that maximize the net power output, and the maximum has additional maximum with respect to the compressor overall pressure ratio. When optimization is performed with the constraints of the fixed fuel flow and the plant size, the net power output and the thermal conversion efficiency of the cycle can be maximized again by properly allocating the fixed flow area among the compressor inlet and the power turbine outlet. The numerical examples show the effects of design parameters on the power output and heat conversion efficiency. The net power output and the thermal conversion efficiency are improved by using the refrigeration cycle for compressor air inlet cooling.
Lean NOx trap study on a light-duty diesel engine using fast-response emission analysers
Authors: Alimin A J , Benjamin S F , Roberts C A
Published: May 2009

Storage and regeneration events have been studied using fast-response emission analysers (∼10 ms) for a lean NO x trap (LNT) fitted to a light-duty diesel engine. Tests were conducted at both low and high exhaust temperatures for various storage and purging periods. The use of fast-response analysers has provided detailed information during the short regeneration periods and as combustion switched between rich and lean operating modes. It has also enabled quantification of the storage, reduction, and overall conversion efficiencies, as well as the instantaneous trapping efficiency. With exhaust temperatures of 250 °C, storage efficiency was low (∼30 per cent). During purging, two distinct NO spikes (breakthroughs) were measured downstream of the LNT at the beginning and end of regeneration. For this LNT, the primary reducing mechanism is CO reacting with NO, but CO reacting with ceria and/or water, the water—gas shift reaction, is suspected. With exhaust temperatures of 400 °C, storage efficiencies were high (∼80–90 per cent), except for the long-storage/short-purge case when the trap was near saturation. NO x breakthrough during enrichment depended on storage and purge periods and the availability of catalyst sites. NO2 breakthrough was also observed at the end of regeneration as the combustion switched to lean operation. Generally, for the high-temperature case on this LNT, the primary reducing mechanism is CO reacting with NO2.
Ice-load estimation for a ship hull based on continuous response monitoring
Authors: Leira B , Børsheim L , Espeland Ø , Amdahl J
Published: May 2009

The expected growth of maritime and offshore activities in arctic areas has led to an increased interest in understanding the risks associated with operating in ice-infested waters. Transportation systems such as large tankers, gas carriers, and bulk carriers that are able to operate throughout the year are of particular interest. One of the key factors for this scenario to occur is the ability to design vessel hulls that possess sufficient strength to be able to resist the pressures generated by the ice fields without any critical damage taking place.

This paper is concerned with the estimation of ice loads acting on the hull of the coastguard vessel KV Svalbard, based on strains that were measured during the winters of 2007 and 2008. A finite element model of the bow structure is utilized in order to correlate the loading with the measured strains. The influences of ice thickness and vessel speed on the measured strain levels are also investigated. Methods for extrapolation of the hull response into the future for predictive purposes are also addressed.
Optimal Price and Product Quality Decisions in a Distribution Channel
Authors: Xu Xiaowei
Published: May 2009

This paper studies a joint pricing and product quality decision problem in a distribution channel, in which a manufacturer sells a product through a retailer. The manufacturer jointly determines the wholesale price and quality of the product, and the retailer determines the retail price. We find that if the marginal revenue function is strictly concave, then the manufacturer chooses a lower product quality level than if selling the product directly to customers. If the marginal revenue function is affine, then the manufacturer's optimal product quality decision is independent of the distribution channel structure. If the marginal revenue function is strictly convex, then the manufacturer chooses a higher product quality level than if selling the product directly to customers.
Thermochemistry on the Solid State Coordination Compounds M(Nic)2 · H2O(s) (M = Mn and Mg, Nic = Nicotinate)
Authors: Kong Yuxia , Di Youying , Yang Weiwei , Zhao Guozheng , Zhang Kun , Tan Zhicheng
Published: May 2009

Two novel solid state coordination compounds – manganese nicotinate monohydrate and magnesium nicotinate monohydrate were synthesized by the method of room temperature solid phase synthesis and ball grinder. FTIR, chemical and elemental analyses and X-ray powder diffraction techniques were applied to characterize the structure and composition of these complexes. In accordance with Hess’ law, hermochemical cycles were designed, the enthalpy changes of the solid phase reactions of nicotinic acid with manganese acetate tetrahydrate and magnesium acetate tetrahydrate were determined as Δr
H
0
m,l
= (39.66±0.36) kJ · mol–1 and Δr
H
0
m,2
= (40.73±0.17) kJ · mol–1 by use of an isoperibol solution-reaction calorimeter, respectively. The standard molar enthalpy of formation of the title complexes M(Nic)2 · H2O(s) were calculated as Δf
H
0
Mn(Nic)2·H2O
= –(1165.01±2.01) kJ · mol–1 and Δf
H
0
Mg(Nic)2·H2O = –(1390.49±1.99) kJ · mol–1 by use of the enthalpies of dissolution and other auxiliary thermodynamic data. In addition, the values of the standard molar enthalpies of formation of M(Nic)2·H2O(s) (M = Mg, Mn, Zn) were compared, a law of change of [–Δf
H
0
Zn(Nic)2·H2O] < [–Δf
H
0
Mn(Nic)2·H2O] < [–Δf
H
0
Mg(Nic)2·H2O] can be obtained, and was in relation with the stability of the three monohydrated nicotinates.
Explaining and Eliminating Racial Profiling
Authors: Tomaskovic-Devey Donald , Warren Patricia
Published: May 2009

The emancipation of slaves is a century-and-a-half in America's past. Many would consider it ancient history. Even the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act, which challenged the de facto racial apartheid of the post-CivilWar period, are now well over 40 years old. But even in the face of such well-established laws, racial inequalities in education, housing, employment, and law enforcement remain widespread in the United States.
Autism, Through a Social Lens
Authors: Poulson Stephen
Published: May 2009

Since the early 1990s the United States has seen a 10-fold increase in autism diagnoses. In 2007, 1 in 150 children were diagnosed with it, according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Sociologists as Outliers
Authors: Best Joel
Published: May 2009

MalcolmGladwell's Outliers: The Story of Successwas itselfmarketed to succeed. Gladwell appeared in numerous television interviews. Outliers was immediately reviewed by major newspapers in the United States, England, Canada, and Australia. Leading bookstore chains discounted the book and displayed it prominently. When I checked the day after it was released in November 2008, it was already fourth in Amazon.com 's rankings.
I Suffer Alone while Suffering with Many
Authors: Anonymous
Published: May 2009

We encourage instructors to nominate first-person essays like this one by sending their students' work of no more than 1,200 words, contact information, and a note about the class and assignment to editor@contexts.org .
Geographies of Displacement: Latina/os, Oral History, and The Politics of Gentrification in San Francisco's Mission District
Authors: Mirabal Nancy Raquel
Published: May 2009

During the 1990s and early 2000s, working-class and poor neighborhoods in San Francisco underwent dramatic economic and racial changes. One of the most heavily gentrified neighborhoods was the Mission District. As a result of local politics, housing and rental policies, real estate speculation, and development, thousands of Latina/o families were displaced. Using oral historical and ethnographic methodologies, print media, archival sources, and policy papers, this article traces the gentrification of the Mission District from the perspective of the Latina/o community. It also examines how gentrification was articulated as a positive turn within the larger public discourse on space and access.
Free circulating DNA based colorectal cancer screening from peripheral blood: the possibility of the methylated septin 9 gene marker
Authors: Tóth Kinga , Galamb Orsolya , Spisák Sándor , Wichmann Barnabás , Sipos Ferenc , Leiszter Katalin , Molnár Jeannette , Molnár Béla , Tulassay Zsolt
Published: May 2009

A DNS-metiláció szerepet játszik a daganatképződés korai szakaszában. Kimutatása szövetből, székletből és perifériás vérből egyaránt lehetséges. A szeptin-9 érzékeny metilációs jelző, amelyet több daganatban, mint emlő- és petefészekrákban, valamint neurológiai és hematológiai betegségekben is vizsgáltak. A szeptinproteinek fontos szerephez jutnak a sejtváz organizációjától az embrionális mintázat kialakulásáig. Napjainkban intenzív kutatások folynak a szeptin-9 fokozott metilációja és a vastagbélrák kialakulása közötti összefüggés felderítéseire.
Mechanisms of bone metastases of breast cancer
Authors: Suva Larry J , Griffin Robert J , Makhoul Issam
Published: May 2009

Cancer development is a multi-step process driven by genetic alterations that elicit the progressive transformation of normal human cells into highly malignant derivatives. The altered cell proliferation phenotype of cancer involves a poorly characterized sequence of molecular events, which often result in the development of distant metastasis. In the case of breast cancer, the skeleton is among the most common of metastatic sites. In spite of its clinical importance, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms driving bone metastasis remain elusive. Despite advances in our understanding of the phenotype of cancer cells, the increased focus on the contribution of the tumor microenvironment and the recent revival of interest in the role of tumor-propagating cells (so called cancer stem cells) that may originate or be related to normal stem cells produced in the bone marrow, many important questions remain unanswered. As such, a more complete understanding of the influences of both the microenvironment and the tumor phenotype, which impact the entire multi-step metastatic cascade, is required. In this review, the importance of tumor heterogeneity, tumor-propagating cells, the microenvironment of breast cancer metastasis to bone as well as many current endocrine therapies for the prevention and treatment of metastatic breast cancer is discussed.
Novel loading tests on full-scale tapered member portal frames
Authors: Rankin G. I. B. , Leinster J. C. , Robinson D. J.
Published: May 2009

This paper presents the experimental results of loading tests on two 18 m span tapered member portal frames designed to BS 5950. Deflection test results for vertical, lateral and combined loading cases are compared with the predictions given by elastic analysis to BS 5950 and shown to be favourable. The predicted ultimate capacities and modes of failure, which were by lateral–torsional buckling of the columns, were also found to agree with the experimental behaviour. It was found that the method of modelling the tapered members as a series of prismatic elements gave good comparison with test results.
Disparities in Dietary Intake, Meal Patterning, and Home Food Environments Among Young Adult Nonstudents and 2- and 4-Year College Students
Authors: Nelson Melissa C. , Larson Nicole I. , Barr-Anderson Daheia , Neumark-Sztainer Dianne , Story Mary
Published: May 2009

We examined whether young adult meal patterning, dietary intake, and home food availability differed among nonstudents, 2-year college students, and 4-year college students (N = 1687; mean age = 20.5 years). Unadjusted analyses showed that few young adults consumed optimal diets and, compared with 4-year college students, nonstudents and 2-year students consumed fewer meals and poorer diets. After controlling for sociodemographics and living arrangements, we found that over half of the observed associations remained significant (P < .05). Nutrition interventions are needed for young adults, particularly specific at-risk groups.
Screening and Brief Intervention for Substance Misuse Among Older Adults: The Florida BRITE Project
Authors: Schonfeld Lawrence , King-Kallimanis Bellinda L. , Duchene Darran M. , Etheridge Roy L. , Herrera Julio R. , Barry Kristen L. , Lynn Nancy
Published: May 2009

Objectives. We developed and examined the effectiveness of the Florida Brief Intervention and Treatment for Elders (BRITE) project, a 3-year, state-funded pilot program of screening and brief intervention for older adult substance misusers.

Methods. Agencies in 4 counties conducted screenings among 3497 older adults for alcohol, medications, and illicit substance misuse problems and for depression and suicide risk. Screening occurred in elders' homes, senior centers, or other selected sites. Individuals who screened positive for substance misuse were offered brief intervention with evidence-based practices and rescreened at discharge from the intervention program and at follow-up interviews.

Results. Prescription medication misuse was the most prevalent substance use problem, followed by alcohol, over-the-counter medications, and illicit substances. Depression was prevalent among those with alcohol and prescription medication problems. Those who received the brief intervention had improvement in alcohol, medication misuse, and depression measures.

Conclusions. The BRITE program effectively shaped state policy by responding to legislative mandates to address the needs of an increasing, but underserved, elder population. The pilot paved the way for obtaining a federally funded grant to expand BRITE to 27 sites in 17 counties in Florida.
Suicidal Behavior Among Female Sex Workers in Goa, India: The Silent Epidemic
Authors: Shahmanesh Maryam , Wayal Sonali , Cowan Frances , Mabey David , Copas Andrew , Patel Vikram
Published: May 2009

Objectives. We sought to study suicidal behavior prevalence and its association with social and gender disadvantage, sex work, and health factors among female sex workers in Goa, India.

Methods. Using respondent-driven sampling, we recruited 326 sex workers in Goa for an interviewer-administered questionnaire regarding self-harming behaviors, sociodemographics, sex work, gender disadvantage, and health. Participants were tested for sexually transmitted infections. We used multivariate analysis to define suicide attempt determinants.

Results. Nineteen percent of sex workers in the sample reported attempted suicide in the past 3 months. Attempts were independently associated with intimate partner violence (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.70; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.38, 5.28), violence from others (AOR = 2.26; 95% CI = 1.15, 4.45), entrapment (AOR = 2.76; 95% CI = 1.11, 6.83), regular customers (AOR = 3.20; 95% CI = 1.61, 6.35), and worsening mental health (AOR = 1.05; 95% CI = 1.01, 1.11). Lower suicide attempt likelihood was associated with Kannad ethnicity, HIV prevention services, and having a child.

Conclusions. Suicidal behaviors among sex workers were common and associated with gender disadvantage and poor mental health. India's widespread HIV-prevention programs for sex workers provide an opportunity for community-based interventions against gender-based violence and for mental health services delivery.
The Relationship Between Living Arrangement and Preventive Care Use Among Community-Dwelling Elderly Persons
Authors: Lau Denys T. , Kirby James B.
Published: May 2009

Objectives. We sought to examine the relationship between living arrangements and obtaining preventive care among the elderly population.

Methods. We obtained data on 13 038 community-dwelling elderly persons from the 2002 to 2005 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey and used multivariate logistic regression models to estimate the likelihood of preventive care use among elderly persons in 4 living arrangements: living alone (38%), living with one's spouse only (52%), living with one's spouse and with one's adult offspring (5%), and living with one's adult offspring only (5%). Preventive care services included influenza vaccination, physical and dental checkup, and screenings for hypertension, cholesterol, and colorectal cancer.

Results. After we controlled for age, gender, race, education, income, health insurance, comorbidities, self-reported health, physical function status, and residence location, we found that elderly persons living with a spouse only were more likely than were those living alone to obtain all preventive care services, except for hypertension screening. However, those living with their adult offspring were not more likely to obtain recommended preventive care compared with those living alone. These results did not change when the employment status and functional status of adult offspring were considered.

Conclusions. Interventions to improve preventive care use should target not only those elderly persons who live alone but also those living with adult offspring.
Marker‐Facilitated Selection for a Major QTL Associated with Root Rot Resistance in Snap Bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.)
Authors: Navarro F. M. , Sass M. E. , Nienhuis J.
Published: May 2009

The use of molecular markers associated with quantitative trait loci (QTL) can improve the efficiency of breeding programs. In previous research, randomly amplified polymorphic DNA marker alleles AD9.950+derived from the root rot resistant snap bean (Phaseolus vulgarisL.) cultivar Puebla 152 and S18.1500−derived from the susceptible cultivar Eagle were linked in repulsion phase and mapped to the same locus. The alleles were associated with a major QTL that explained 25 and 49% of the variation for the root rot complex for plant vigor and plant biomass, respectively. The objective of the current study was to estimate the average effect of allelic substitution in BC1F3families that were indirectly selected for root rot resistance or susceptibility based on the AD9.950 and S18.1500 marker phenotypes. Four BC1F3inbred backcross populations were developed by crossing two susceptible snap bean cultivars (Hercules and Nicelo) with two root rot resistant donor inbred lines. When evaluated in a field with high levels of root rot inocula, families carrying the AD9.950+/S18.1500−marker alleles had a mean plant vigor of 3.95 ± 0.96 and mean plant biomass of 25.09 ± 0.89 g plant−1compared with 7.01 ± 0.96 and 7.05 ± 0.90, respectively, in families that lacked these alleles. Realized gains in plant biomass and plant vigor validate the effectiveness of substituting the AD9.950+and the S18.1500−marker alleles to introgress root rot resistance into susceptible genetic backgrounds.
Variation in Adzuki Bean (Vigna angularis) Germplasm Grown in China
Authors: Redden Robert J. , Basford Kaye E. , Kroonenberg Pieter M. , Islam F.M. Amirul , Ellis Rodney , Wang Shumin , Cao Yongsheng , Zong Xuxiao , Wang Xiaoming
Published: May 2009

Adzuki bean [Vigna angularis(Willd.) Ohwi & Ohashi] is cultivated in a wide range of agroecological environments from north to south China. An understanding of the genetic variation for crop adaptation facilitates plant breeding. A core germplasm of 231 accessions (selected from a representative collection of 3908 Chinese landraces) was evaluated at diverse locations in China in 1998 to (i) compare differences among sources of landraces for trait expression, (ii) identify underlying patterns of diversity, and (iii) characterize patterns of genetic adaptation across environments. Three‐mode pattern analysis of phenology, yield and yield components, and plant height data identified six accession groups with various levels of cohesiveness. The greatest diversity occurred in the germplasm from the provinces of mid‐north China, particularly the lower Yellow River basin, with a partial latitudinal separation of the accession origins in different groups. The most contrasting groups came, respectively, from south China (Sichuan–Anhui), characterized by late maturity and small seed size, and from north China (Liaoning–Heilongjiang), characterized by earliness and short habit. Analysis of the multilocation screening provided genotype × environment characterization of the accession groups and a capability to predict the most suitable groups for specific target environments and breeding objectives, thereby enabling plant breeders to make efficient and effective use of germplasm.
Effects of Silicon and Drought Stress on Tuber Yield and Leaf Biochemical Characteristics in Potato
Authors: Crusciol Carlos A. C. , Pulz Adriano L. , Lemos Leandro B. , Soratto Rogério P. , Lima Giuseppina P. P.
Published: May 2009

Silicon has beneficial effects on many crops, mainly under biotic and abiotic stresses. Silicon can affect biochemical, physiological, and photosynthetic processes and, consequently, alleviates drought stress. However, the effects of Si on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) plants under drought stress are still unknown. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of Si supply on some biochemical characteristics and yield of potato tubers, either exposed or not exposed to drought stress. The experiment was conducted in pots containing 50 dm3 of a Typic Acrortox soil (33% clay, 4% silt, and 63% sand). The treatments consisted of the absence or presence of Si application (0 and 284.4 mg dm−3), through soil amelioration with dolomitic lime and Ca and Mg silicate, and in the absence or presence of water deficit (−0.020 MPa and −0.050 MPa soil water potential, respectively), with eight replications. Silicon application and water deficit resulted in the greatest Si concentration in potato leaves. Proline concentrations increased under lower water availability and higher Si availability in the soil, which indicates that Si may be associated with plant osmotic adjustment. Water deficit and Si application decreased total sugars and soluble proteins concentrations in the leaves. Silicon application reduced stalk lodging and increased mean tuber weight and, consequently, tuber yield, especially in the absence of water stress.
Genetic Variation within and among Wildrye (Elymus canadensis and E. virginicus) Populations from the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Saha Malay C. , Young Carolyn A. , Hopkins Andrew A.
Published: May 2009

There is interest in Canada wildrye (CWR, Elymus canadensis L.) and Virginia wildrye (VWR, E. virginicus L.) for conservation and forage uses. Our objectives were to identify a set of molecular markers to assess genetic structure within and diversity among populations of CWR and VWR from the Southern Great Plains and to determine if these populations had an associated fungal endophyte. Nine CWR and five VWR populations and two barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) cultivars were genotyped using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers isolated from tall fescue [Lolium arundinaceum (Schreb.) Darbysh.] expressed sequence tags (TF ESTs). Scorable fragments were produced by 31% of TF EST‐SSRs tested, thus identifying a set of SSR markers for wildrye. Populations grouped into three clusters consisting of (i) three wild populations, one plant introduction, and two commercial sources of CWR; (ii) all VWR populations and three CWR plant introductions; and (iii) barley cultivars. Clustering indicated possible gene flow between CWR and VWR. Genetic variation within populations was minimal and comparable to that of the barley cultivars. Thus, unlike many ancestral cultivars and landraces of self‐pollinated crops, CWR and VWR populations consisted of essentially pure lines and can be handled as such in a breeding program. Potentially sexual and asexual epichloë endophytes were found in several populations, indicating the need to account for endophytes in breeding and germplasm conservation efforts of wildrye.
Composition, Vigor, and Proteome of Mature Soybean Seeds Developed under High Temperature
Authors: Ren C. , Bilyeu K. D. , Beuselinck P. R.
Published: May 2009

The effects of high temperature treatment on soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] seed composition, vigor, and proteome were investigated using mature dry seeds harvested from plants grown in environment‐controlled chambers. High day/night temperatures (37/30°C) from stages R5 through R8 altered ratios of individual fatty acids to total fatty acid compared to the control (27/18°C). Concentration of sugars decreased, but total protein and phytic acid concentration were unchanged. High temperature resulted in a greater proportion of abnormal seeds, but normal‐appearing seed exhibited reduced germination and vigor. Proteomic analysis detected 20 protein identities whose accumulations were changed by the high temperature. Fourteen spots were identified as seven subunits of seed storage proteins. The remaining six proteins were identified as those responding to abiotic stresses or having a function in respiration: (i) sucrose binding protein, (ii) Class III acidic endochitinase, (iii) heat shock protein (HSP22), (iv) late embryo abundant protein, (v) Bowman–Birk proteinase inhibitor, and (vi) formate dehydrogenase. High temperature during seed development changed soybean seed composition and decreased seed vigor, but also changed seed protein expression profiles.