bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver X Receptor Activation Potentiates the Lipopolysaccharide Response in Human Macrophages
Authors: Fontaine Coralie , Rigamonti Elena , Nohara Atsushi , Gervois Philippe , Teissier Elisabeth , Fruchart Jean-Charles , Staels Bart , Chinetti-Gbaguidi Giulia
Published: June 2007

Macrophages play a central role in host defense against pathogen microbes by recognizing bacterial components, resulting in the activation of an arsenal of anti-microbial effectors. Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4 mediates the recognition of lipopolysaccharide, a pathogen-associated molecular pattern from Gram-negative bacteria. Activation of the TLR-4 signaling pathway by lipopolysaccharide increases antibacterial effects by inducing secretion of cytokines that activate an immune inflammatory response and by generating bactericidal reactive oxygen species via the NADPH oxidase system. Liver X Receptors (LXRs) are nuclear receptors controlling cholesterol homeostasis and inflammation in macrophages. In addition, LXRs are critical for macrophage survival and play a role in the innate immune response in the mouse. In this study, we investigated whether LXR activation also regulates host defense mechanisms in human macrophages. In primary human macrophages, oxidized LDL and synthetic LXR ligands increased TLR-4 gene expression. Transient transfection assays, gel shift and chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis indicated that LXRs induce human TLR-4 promoter activity by binding to a DR4-type LXR response element. LXR induction of TLR-4 mRNA was followed by an induction of TLR-4 protein expression. Moreover, although short-term pretreatment with LXR agonists significantly reduced the inflammatory response induced by lipopolysaccharide, pretreatment of macrophages for 48 hours with LXR agonists resulted in an enhanced lipopolysaccharide response. Finally, LXR activation increased reactive oxygen species generation by enhancing the expression of NADPH oxidase subunits. These data provide evidence for an immunomodulatory function of LXRs in human macrophages via mechanisms distinct from those previously identified in mouse macrophages.
CT-NIHSS Mismatch Does Not Correlate With MRI Diffusion-Perfusion Mismatch
Authors: Messé Steven R. , Kasner Scott E. , Chalela Julio A. , Cucchiara Brett , Demchuk Andrew M. , Hill Michael D. , Warach Steven
Published: June 2007

Background and Purpose—

MRI diffusion-perfusion mismatch may identify patients for thrombolysis beyond 3 hours. However, MRI has limited availability in many hospitals. We investigated whether mismatch between the Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) and the NIH Stroke Scale (NIHSS) correlates with MRI diffusion-perfusion mismatch.

Methods—

We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of consecutive acute ischemic stroke patients who underwent MRI and CT at admission. NIHSS was performed by the admitting physician. MRI and CT were reviewed by 2 blinded expert raters. Degree of MRI mismatch was defined as present (> 25%) or absent (<25%). Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine characteristics associated with MRI mismatch. Probability of MRI mismatch was calculated for all combinations of ASPECTS and NIHSS cutoff scores.

Results—

Included in the analysis were 143 patients. Median NIHSS on admission was 4 (IQR, 2 to 10); median ASPECTS was 10 (IQR, 9 to 10). Median time to completion of MRI and CT was 4.5 (2.5 to 13.9) hours after onset. CT and MRI were separated by a median of 35 (IQR, 29 to 44) minutes. MRI mismatch was present in 41% of patients. In multivariate analysis, only shorter time-to-scan (OR, 0.96 per hour; 95% CI, 0.92 to 1.0;
P
=0.043) was associated with MRI mismatch. There was no combination of NIHSS and ASPECTS thresholds that was significantly associated with MRI mismatch.

Conclusions—

ASPECTS-NIHSS mismatch did not correlate with MRI diffusion-perfusion mismatch in this clinical cohort. MRI mismatch was associated with decreasing time from stroke onset to scan.
Global Savings–Investment Imbalances: What Role for East Asia?
Authors: Nasution Anwar
Published: June 2007

This paper examines the current path of global imbalances and the role of East Asia in addressing these issues. The roots of the problem are the exploding budget deficit and soaring current account deficit of the United States. The twin deficits are being financed by foreign savings including the placement of the massive foreign exchange reserves of East Asia in U.S. dollar–denominated debt, such as U.S. Treasury notes. Solving the imbalances will require corrections of internal and external imbalances by both the United States and its trading partners. How East Asia deploys its reserves could set off a tsunami of sales of dollar-based assets that could disrupt the U.S. and global economy. Sharp exchange rate adjustments (particularly a large fall in the U.S. dollar), and a protectionist backlash against the U.S. current account deficit, are in no one's interest as they could trigger global shocks.
Discordant Evaluations of Blacks Affect Nonverbal Behavior
Authors: Olson Michael A. , Fazio Russell H.
Published: June 2007

Previous research suggests that automatic prejudice directly manifests in nonverbal behavior. The authors offer a more complex picture of the relation between automatic processes and nonverbal behavior by suggesting that any discomfort that appears in nonverbal behavior stems not from negative attitudes per se but from discordance between automatically activated attitudes toward Blacks and the specific evaluations being expressed. White participants for whom estimates of automatic prejudice were available provided videotaped evaluations of several individuals, including two matched Black and White males. Discordance between general racial attitudes and evaluations of specific targets manifested in discomfort-related nonverbal behavior. Moreover, naïve Black judges, but not White judges, doubted the sincerity of individuals characterized by discordance. The nature of the nonverbal “leakage” that automatic prejudice produces is discussed.
The Archaeological Framework of the Upper Paleolithic Revolution
Authors: Bar-Yosef Ofer
Published: June 2007

The Upper Palaeolithic Revolution, sometimes called ‘the Creative Explosion’, is seen as the period when the forefathers of modern forager societies emerged. Similarly to the Industrial and Neolithic Revolutions, it represents a short time span when numerous inventions appeared and cultural changes occurred. The inventions were in the domain of technology, that is, shaping of new stone tool forms, longdistance exchange of raw materials, the use of bone, antler and ivory as well as rare minerals for the production of domestic and ritual objects. Spatial analysis of ‘living floors’ indicates the presence of a kitchen area, sleeping grounds, storage facilities (in certain regions) and a discard zone. We can also detect a certain increase in social hierarchy and the presence of shamans. Body decorations indicate the appearance of personal individuality. Several hypotheses were offered as an explanation for the initiation of all these cultural changes often grouped under the term ‘modern behaviour’. It stands to reason that attributing the new successful technologies observed in the Eurasian Upper Palaeolithic to intrinsic social processes and economic innovations by local Middle Palaeolithic populations would need a better archaeological demonstration than that available today. For the time being, the emergence of Modern humans in sub-Saharan Africa, their socio-economic dynamism that caused their expansion through the Nile Valley into the Near East, and their migration along the ‘southern route’ of Asia as far as Australia, is the most plausible scenario though it still leaves much to be desired from future archaeological research.
Farnesyltransferase inhibitors inhibit T-cell cytokine production at the posttranscriptional level
Authors: Marks Reinhard E. , Ho Allen W. , Robbel Christian , Kuna Todd , Berk Seth , Gajewski Thomas F.
Published: June 2007

Several cytoplasmic proteins, such as GTPases of the Ras family, containing a C-terminal CAAX motif are prenylated by farnesyltransferase to facilitate localization to cellular membranes where activation occurs. Farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs) interfere with this farnesylation process, thereby preventing proper membrane localization and rendering the proteins unavailable for activation. Currently, FTIs are being explored as antineoplastic agents for the treatment of several malignancies. However, since farnesylated proteins like Ras are also involved in intracellular signaling in lymphocytes, FTIs might interfere with T-cell activation. Based on this hypothesis we examined the effect of several FTIs on cytokine production in response to anti-CD3 + anti-CD28 monoclonal antibodies or PMA + ionomycin. Murine Th1 and Th2 clones, stimulated in the presence of FTIs, showed a dose-dependent reduction of lineage-specific cytokine secretion (IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-5). However, no inhibition of ERK or JNK MAP kinases was observed, nor was induction of cytokine mRNA affected. Rather, intracellular cytokine protein synthesis was blocked. Inhibition of human T-cell INF-γ production also was observed, correlating with reduced phosphorylation of p70S6K. These results indicate that FTIs inhibit T-cell activation at the posttranscriptional level and also suggest that they may have potential as novel immunosuppressive agents.
Macrophages prevent the differentiation of autoreactive B cells by secreting CD40 ligand and interleukin-6
Authors: Kilmon Michelle A. , Wagner Nikki J. , Garland Alaina L. , Lin Li , Aviszus Katja , Wysocki Lawrence J. , Vilen Barbara J.
Published: June 2007

Activation of the innate immune system promotes polyclonal antibody secretion to eliminate invading pathogens. Inherent in this process is the potential to activate autoreactive B cells and induce autoimmunity. We showed previously that TLR-stimulated dendritic cells and macrophages regulate B cell tolerance to Smith antigen, in part through the secretion of interleukin-6 (IL-6). In this manuscript, we show that neutralization of IL-6 fails to abrogate macrophage-mediated repression and identify soluble CD40 ligand (CD40L) as a second repressive factor secreted by macrophages. CD40L selectively repressed Ig secretion by chronically antigen-experienced (anergic) immunoglobulin transgenic and nontransgenic B cells but not by transiently stimulated B cells. The importance of macrophages in maintaining B cell tolerance was apparent in lupus-prone MRL/lpr mice. Compared with C57BL/6 mice, macrophages from MRL/lpr mice were significantly less efficient at repressing immunoglobulin secretion coincident with diminished IL-6 and CD40 ligand production. These data indicate that macrophages regulate autoreactive B cells by secreting repressive factors that prohibit terminal differentiation of B cells. The regulation of autoreactive B cells by macrophages is diminished in lupus-prone mice suggesting a role in autoimmunity.
Characteristics of primary and immortalized fibroblast cells derived from the miniature and domestic pigs
Authors: Oh Ho-Yeon , Jin Xun , Kim Jong-Geun , Oh Myung-Joo , Pian Xumin , Kim Jun-Mo , Yoon Moon-Seok , Son Chae-Ik , Lee Young Sik , Hong Ki-Chang , Kim Hyunggee , Choi Yun-Jaie , Whang Kwang Youn
Published: June 2007

Background

The pig, Sus scrofa domestica includes both the miniature and commercial domestic breed. These animals have influenced the human life and economies and have been studied throughout history. Although the miniature breeds are more recent and have increasingly been used in a variety of biomedical studies, their cell lines have rarely been established. Therefore, we sought to establish primary and immortal cell lines derived from both the miniature and domestic pig to better enable insight into possible in vivo growth differences.

Results

The in vitro lifespan of primary domestic pig fibroblast (PF) and miniature pig fibroblast (MPF) cells using a standard 3T3 protocol was determined. Both of the primary PF and MPF cells were shown to have a two-step replicative senescence barrier. Primary MPF cells exhibited a relatively shorter lifespan and slower proliferation rate compared to those of primary PF cells. Beyond senescence barriers, lifespan-extended PF and MPF cells were eventually established and indicated spontaneous cellular immortalization. In contrast to the immortalized PF cells, immortal MPF cells showed a transformed phenotype and possessed more frequent chromosomal abnormalities and loss of p53 regulatory function. The lifespan of primary MPF and PF cells was extended by inactivation of the p53 function using transduction by SV40LT without any detectable senescent phenotype.

Conclusion

These results suggest that p53 signaling might be a major determinant for the replicative senescence in the MPF cells that have the shorter lifespan and slower growth rate compared to PF cells in vitro.
New research models and novel signal analysis in studies on preterm labor: a key to progress?
Authors: Pierzynski Piotr , Oczeretko Edward , Laudanski Piotr , Laudanski Tadeusz
Published: June 2007

Preterm labor affects up to 20% of pregnancies, is considered a main cause of associated neonatal morbidity and mortality and is responsible for neonatal care costs of multimillion euros. In spite of that, the commercial market for this clinical indication is rather limited, which may be also related to high liability. Consequently, with only a few exceptions, preterm labor is not in the orbit of great interest of the pharmaceutical industry. Coordinated effort of research community may bring the change and help required to reduce the influence of this multifactorial syndrome on society. Between the novel techniques that are being explored in a SAFE (The Special Non-Invasive Advances in Fetal and Neonatal Evaluation Network) group, there are new research models of preterm labor as well as novel methodology of analysis of biological signals. In this article, we briefly describe new clinical and nonclinical human models of preterm labor as well as summarize some novel methods of data processing and analysis that may be used in the context of preterm labor.
Recombinant nucleases CEL I from celery and SP I from spinach for mutation detection
Authors: Pimkin Maxim , Caretti Elena , Canutescu Adrian , Yeung Jeffrey B , Cohn Heather , Chen Yibai , Oleykowski Catherine , Bellacosa Alfonso , Yeung Anthony T
Published: June 2007

Background

The detection of unknown mutations is important in research and medicine. For this purpose, a mismatch-specific endonuclease CEL I from celery has been established as a useful tool in high throughput projects. Previously, CEL I-like activities were described only in a variety of plants and could not be expressed in an active form in bacteria.

Results

We describe expression of active recombinant plant mismatch endonucleases and modification of their activities. We also report the cloning of a CEL I ortholog from Spinacia oleracea (spinach) which we termed SP I nuclease. Active CEL I and SP I nucleases were expressed as C-terminal hexahistidine fusions and affinity purified from the cell culture media. Both recombinant enzymes were active in mutation detection in BRCA1 gene of patient-derived DNA. Native SP nuclease purified from spinach is unable to incise at single-nucleotide substitutions and loops containing a guanine nucleotide, but the recombinant SP I nuclease can cut at these sites.

Conclusion

The insect cell-expressed CEL I orthologs may not be identical to their native counterparts purified from plant tissues. The present expression system should facilitate further development of CEL I-based mutation detection technologies.
Differential regulation of CD11b on γδ T cells and monocytes in response to unripe apple polyphenols
Authors: Graff Jill C , Jutila Mark A
Published: June 2007

Leukocyte adhesion and migration are mediated partially by CD11b/CD18 (membrane-activated complex-1, CR3). Earlier studies have demonstrated a role for green tea polyphenols in down-regulating CD11b on CD8+ T cells and monocytes. We have shown recently a stimulatory effect of unripe apple polyphenols (APP) on γδ T cells. Thus, we compared the effect of APP on bovine γδ T cell and monocyte CD11b expression. Purified bovine monocytes and monocyte-depleted PBLs were cultured with APP. CD11b levels decreased on monocytes in response to APP. In contrast, a γδ T cell subset responded to APP by up-regulating CD11b. The CD11b regulation was not seen on γδ T cells or monocytes treated with APP fractions depleted of tannins. The APP-induced down-regulation of CD11b on monocytes was inhibited by an anti-CD11b mAb, consistent with previous studies showing that polyphenols bind CD11b. As expected, the anti-CD11b mAb had no effect on the APP response in resting γδ T cells, as these cells lacked CD11b. Consistent with the changes in surface CD11b expression, APP-treated γδ T cells showed increased adherence to pastic, whereas monocyte adhesion was reduced. APP also induced cytokine gene expression in γδ T cells. Some polyphenols are thought of as anti-inflammatory agents; however, these data, as well as other ongoing studies, indicate they have a proinflammatory effect on γδ T cells. In vivo, plant polyphenols may enhance γδ T cell migration and function at sites of inflammation, where they could induce rapid, immune-regulatory and innate-like immune responses.
Age-Related Changes in Heritability of Behavioral Phenotypes Over Adolescence and Young Adulthood: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bergen Sarah E. , Gardner Charles O. , Kendler Kenneth S.
Published: June 2007

The relative proportions of genetic and environmental variance in behavioral measures have been studied extensively. A growing body of literature has examined changes in heritability measures over time, but we are unaware of any prior efforts to assess developmental heritability changes for multiple behavioral phenotypes using multiple data sources. We have chosen to explore the proportional genetic influences on a variety of behaviors during the genetically and environmentally labile adolescent and young adult years. This meta-analysis examined 8 behavioral domains and incorporated only primary research articles reporting two or more heritability time points in order to minimize the age-to-age error variability. Linear regression analyses revealed significant cross-time heritability increases for externalizing behaviors, anxiety symptoms, depressive symptoms, IQ, and social attitudes and nonsignificant increases for alcohol consumption, and nicotine initiation, but no evidence of heritability changes for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A variety of mechanisms may underlie these findings including the rising importance of active genotype-environment correlation, an increase in gene expression, or proportional reductions in environmental variance. Additional longitudinal studies and the inclusion of measures of total variance in primary research reports will aid in distinguishing between these possibilities. Further studies exploring heritability changes beyond young adulthood would also benefit our understanding of factors influencing heritability of behavioral traits over the lifespan.
Etiology of the Stability of Reading Difficulties: The Longitudinal Twin Study of Reading Disabilities
Authors: Astrom Raven L. , Wadsworth Sally J. , DeFries John C.
Published: June 2007

Results obtained from previous longitudinal studies of reading difficulties indicate that reading deficits are generally stable. However, little is known about the etiology of this stability. Thus, the primary objective of this first longitudinal twin study of reading difficulties is to provide an initial assessment of genetic and environmental influences on the stability of reading deficits. Data were analyzed from a sample of 56 twin pairs, 18 identical (monozygotic, MZ) and 38 fraternal (dizygotic, DZ), in which at least one member of each pair was classified as reading-disabled in the Colorado Learning Disabilities Research Center, and on whom follow-up data were available. The twins were tested at two time points (average age of 10.3 years at initial assessment and 16.1 years at follow-up). A composite measure of reading performance (PIAT Reading Recognition, Reading Comprehension and Spelling) was highly stable, with a stability correlation of .84. Data from the initial time point were first subjected to univariate DeFries-Fulker multiple regression analysis and the resulting estimate of the heritability of the group deficit (h2g) was .84 (± .26). When the initial and follow-up data were then fitted to a bivariate extension of the basic DF model, bivariate heritability was estimated at .65, indicating that common genetic influences account for approximately 75% of the stability between reading measures at the two time points.
Age at First Sexual Intercourse and Teenage Pregnancy in Australian Female Twins
Authors: Waldron Mary , Heath Andrew C. , Turkheimer Eric , Emery Robert , Bucholz Kathleen K. , Madden Pamela A. F. , Martin Nicholas G.
Published: June 2007

Girls who report first sexual intercourse during their early teen years have much higher rates of teenage pregnancy and childbearing than girls who delay sexual onset until older adolescence. In this study, we examine genetic and environmental influences on variation in teenage pregnancy and covariation with age at first sexual intercourse in two cohorts of Australian female twins. In the older twin cohort, born 1893–1964, we observe substantial heritable variation in teenage pregnancy that is largely shared with heritable variation in age at first sexual intercourse, with shared environment contributintablg little to variation in teenage pregnancy. Genetic influences on teenage pregnancy are smaller and nonsignificant in the younger twin cohort, born 1964–1971, where shared environment contributes much more and overlaps entirely with shared environmental variation in age at first intercourse.
Genetic and Environmental Influences on Body Size in Early Childhood: A Twin Birth-Cohort Study
Authors: Dubois Lise , Girard Manon , Girard Alain , Tremblay Richard , Boivin Michel , Pérusse Daniel
Published: June 2007

Genetic and environmental contributions to body size from birth to 5 years in a population-based twin cohort were studied. Sex differences in gene–environment etiology were also explored. Analyses used data from the Quebec Newborn Twin Study (QNTS), a population-based birth cohort of 672 twin pairs. The final sample consisted of 177 complete twin pairs. Heritability of weight was moderate at birth while common environmental factors accounted for almost half of the variance. Influence of family environment disappeared by 5 months and genetic effects were high (approximately 90%) for both sexes at 5 months and 5 years. Adjustment of weight for height yielded similar results as for weight alone. Slight but significant sex-limitation of genetic effects was observed at 5 months. Overall, genetic factors accounted for 40% of birthweight variance, with intrauterine environment influences explaining almost half. However, genetic factors accounted for most of the variance in weight. These results do not imply a lack of environmental effects on body weight, but rather a lack of: (1) environmental effects that are independent from genetic liability, and/or (2) a lack of significant environmental variation in the population (e.g., uniform nutritional habits) that leaves genetic differences between children to generate most of the variance in weight.
Study of Gene Expression Profiles and Biological Mechanism of Cerebral Palsy Using a Monozygotic Twin Pair
Authors: Zhang Tiane , Wang Miqu , Pan Ling , Ding Weijun , Wang J.G. , Yang Liping , Liu Ming , Li Weihong , Yan Zhiyong
Published: June 2007

The gene expression profile of a normal-suffering monozygotic twin pair is investigated to explore biological mechanisms of spastic type cerebral palsy. Main works include following three aspects: First, a cDNA microarray test is carried out to get the differentially expressed genes of the patient with cerebral palsy compared to her monozygotic twin sister. Second, these differentially expressed genes are searched for their bioinformation within 4 biological databases: FatiGO, FatiGOPlus, KEGG, and SOURCE. Third, a set of special genes and gene families are screened out from the spastic type cerebral palsy patient. These biological analyses reveal that those genes for cell junction are mostly down-regulated, while those genes for metabolism are mostly up-regulated. The individual genes, gene family, and their associated biological functions can reflect the pathological and physiological characteristics of the cerebral palsy.
Birth Weight, Postnatal Growth, and Risk for High Blood Pressure at 7 Years of Age: Results From the Collaborative Perinatal Project
Authors: Hemachandra Anusha H. , Howards Penelope P. , Furth Susan L. , Klebanoff Mark A.
Published: June 2007

OBJECTIVE. A physiologic predisposition toward hypertension is theorized to result from the combination of intrauterine growth restriction followed by rapid catch-up growth. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of birth weight and weight gain during childhood on the risk for high blood pressure in childhood and to identify discrete periods of catch-up growth that put children with intrauterine growth restriction at increased risk for the development of high blood pressure later in life.

METHODS. The US Collaborative Perinatal Project (1959–1974) studied 55908 pregnancies in an observational cohort at 12 medical centers in the United States and followed the offspring through 7 years of age. All white or black children who were born at term and completed the follow-up without kidney or heart disease were included in this posthoc analysis. z scores were calculated for weight at birth, 4 months, 1 year, 4 years, and 7 years on the basis of study means and SD. Changes in z scores were calculated for each interval.

RESULTS. Each 1-kg increase in birth weight increased the odds for high systolic blood pressure by 2.19 and high diastolic blood pressure by 1.82 when race and change in weight z scores were also included in the regression model. An increase in weight z score of 1 SD above the previous weight z score increased the odds for high systolic blood pressure at 7 years by 1.65 (birth to 4 months), 1.79 (4 months to 1 year), 1.71 (1–4 years), and 1.94 (4–7 years) in the full model. White race increased the odds for high systolic blood pressure by 1.51.

CONCLUSIONS. In this large biracial US cohort, infants who were small for gestational age were not at increased risk for high blood pressure at 7 years of age. However, children who crossed weight percentiles upward during early childhood did demonstrate an increased risk.
A Multicenter, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Metabolic and Respiratory Effects of Growth Hormone in Children With Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Schnabel Dirk , Grasemann Corinna , Staab Doris , Wollmann Hartmut , Ratjen Felix ,   for the German Cystic Fibrosis Growth Hormone Study Group
Published: June 2007

OBJECTIVE. Positive effects of growth hormone therapy on growth, nutritional status, and lung function have been observed in patients with cystic fibrosis, but the current evidence is based on unblinded studies that involved a small number of patients. This trial was designed as a multicenter, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study to assess the efficacy and safety of 2 dosages of growth hormone in cystic fibrosis.

METHODS. Sixty-three dystrophic patients with cystic fibrosis were randomly assigned for 24 weeks to 1 of 3 treatment arms: growth hormone dosage of 0.11 IU/kg body weight per day, growth hormone dosage of 0.21 IU/kg body weight per day, or placebo. The 24-week double-blind period was followed by an open treatment period of 24 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the change in forced expiratory volume in 1 second in percentage predicted from baseline. Secondary outcome measures were changes in height, weight, and exercise tolerance.

RESULTS. Height, growth velocity, and growth factors (insulin-like growth factor 1 and insulin-like growth factor–binding protein 3) increased significantly in both treatment groups, whereas weight gain did not differ between the growth hormone groups and placebo. A trend toward improvement in absolute forced vital capacity was observed in patients who received the higher growth hormone dosage, whereas forced expiratory volume in 1 second did not change significantly with growth hormone treatment. Maximal oxygen uptake during peak exercise increased significantly in treated patients. There were no significant differences in the frequency or severity of adverse effects or in the incidence of abnormalities in glucose metabolism.

CONCLUSIONS. These data suggest that in the group investigated, growth hormone therapy was well tolerated and had positive metabolic effects but did not result in short-term improvement of lung function in patients with cystic fibrosis.
Role of Zinc Administration in Prevention of Childhood Diarrhea and Respiratory Illnesses: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Aggarwal Rakesh , Sentz John , Miller Mark A.
Published: June 2007

BACKGROUND. The quantified effect of zinc supplementation to prevent childhood diarrhea and respiratory illnesses is unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis of randomized, controlled trials on the subject.

METHODS. We searched PubMed, Science Citation Index, and the Cochrane Database of Controlled Trials and hand-searched the reference lists of identified articles. All randomized, controlled trials of zinc supplementation for ≥3 months for children <5 years of age, using blinded assessment, were eligible. The outcome measures studied were number of episodes of illness, number of days with illness, and number of episodes of severe illness. Data from 17 studies were pooled by using random-effects and fixed-effects models for data with and without significant heterogeneity, respectively.

RESULTS. Children who received a zinc supplement had fewer episodes of diarrhea (rate ratio: 0.86) and respiratory tract infections (rate ratio: 0.92) and significantly fewer attacks of severe diarrhea or dysentery (rate ratio: 0.85), persistent diarrhea (rate ratio: 0.75), and lower respiratory tract infection or pneumonia (rate ratio: 0.80) than did those who received placebo. They also had significantly fewer total days with diarrhea (rate ratio: 0.86) but not days with respiratory illness (rate ratio: 0.95). Published studies showed a publication bias and significant heterogeneity; however, no cause for the latter could be identified.

CONCLUSIONS. Zinc supplementation reduced significantly the frequency and severity of diarrhea and respiratory illnesses and the duration of diarrheal morbidity. The relatively limited reduction in morbidity and the presence of significant heterogeneity and of publication bias indicate the need for larger, high-quality studies to identify subpopulations most likely to benefit.
A protocol to develop crack-free biomimetic coatings on Ti6Al4V substrates
Authors: Jalota Sahil , Bhaduri Sutapa , Bhaduri Sarit B. , Tas A. Cuneyt
Published: June 2007

Biomimetic coating of titanium and related alloys with carbonated apatitic calcium phosphate is an important area of research in implantology. While this paper specifically refers to coating Ti6Al4V, the results are valid with other related alloys as well. One step in the protocol involves an intermediate alkali treatment of Ti6Al4V to form a sodium titanate layer on the alloy surface. This pretreatment enhances the formation of the coating from simulated body fluid (SBF) solutions. Many papers in the biomimetic coating literature demonstrate the presence of cracks in coatings, irrespective of the SBF compositions and placement of the substrates. The presence of cracks may result in degradation and delamination of coatings. To the best of our knowledge, this issue remains unresolved. Therefore, the aim of this study was: (i) to examine and understand the reasons for cracking and (ii) based on the results, to develop a protocol for producing crack-free apatitic calcium phosphate coatings on Ti6Al4V substrates. In this study, the authors focused their attention on the alkali treatment procedure and the final drying step. It is hypothesized that these two steps of the process affect the crack formation the most. In the first case, the surfaces of alkali-treated substrates were examined with/without water-soaking treatment before immersing in SBF. This water treatment modifies the sodium titanate surface layer. In the second case, two different drying techniques (after soaking in SBF) were used. In one procedure, the coated substrates were dried rapidly, and in the other they were dried slowly. It was observed that the water treatment, irrespective of the drying method, provides a surface, which on subsequent soaking in SBF forms a crack-free apatitic calcium phosphate coating. Based on these results, the authors suggest a protocol incorporating a water-soaking treatment after the alkali treatment and prior to the SBF soaking treatment to obtain crack-free coatings.
CuSiGe-catalyzed growth of Si1−xGexOynanowire assemblies with various morphologies
Authors: Ko Chih-Yuan , Hsieh Wen-Yuan , Hsu Ting-Jui , Lin Wen-Tai
Published: June 2007

Si1−xGexOynanowire (SiGeONW) assemblies with cord-, chain-, and tubelike morphologies were grown on a Si substrate via the carbothermal reduction of GeO2/CuO powders at 1100 °C in Ar. The growth of various SiGeONWs assemblies follows the vapor-liquid-solid process. The CuSiGe droplets formed during the growth of SiGeONWs simultaneously play the roles of catalyst and reactant. The morphology of SiGeONWs assemblies is not temperature controlled but dependent on the Cu concentration and the size of CuSiGe catalysts. This phenomenon is unlike the Ge- and Ga-catalyzed growth of SiOxnanowire assemblies. In addition, the processing parameters and the mechanisms for the growth of SiGeONWs assemblies with various morphologies are discussed.
Indentation size effects in polymers and related rotation gradients
Authors: Han Chung-Souk , Nikolov Svetoslav
Published: June 2007

Similar to metals, the hardness of many polymers increases with decreasing indentation depths at depth ranges from several microns down to several nanometers. While for metals such phenomena are commonly attributed to geometrically necessary dislocation densities, such an explanation cannot be applied to polymers. To provide a micromechanically motivated model for the indentation size effect in polymers, here we propose an elasto-plastic extension of the higher order elasticity model recently developed by the authors. In this model, size effects in polymers (as well as in nematic liquid crystals) are related to Frank elasticity arising from bending distortions of the polymer chains and their interactions. On the basis of this theory, we derive a simple model for indentation size effects in polymers. Unlike other models, our model includes only elastic size effects due to rotational gradients. It is shown that the proposed model can explain the experimentally observed size effects in polymers. Together with the existing experimental data mentioned here, new experimental data for silicon rubber are also presented and discussed.
Nanocrystalline Pt interfacial layer formed by stress in a SrBi2Ta2O9–Pt–Ti ferroelectric capacitor
Authors: Leu Ching-Chich
Published: June 2007

A thin nanocrystalline Pt interfacial layer (IL) was observed near the SrBi2Ta2O9(SBT)–Pt interface after crystallization treatment in a SBT–Pt–Ti ferroelectric capacitor. Apart from its Pt content, this IL also incorporated large numbers of Ti and O atoms, which arose from the Ti adhesion layer and the SBT film, respectively. These atoms reacted to form TiOx, which resulted in a volume expansion during the annealing process. This phenomenon led to a putative shear stress being exerted on the Pt layer. Under such stress and thermal conditions, we speculate that the nanocrystalline Pt IL developed from the Pt bottom electrode.
Dense and optical transparent CdWO4 films by sol-gel processing for scintillation applications
Authors: Shang H.M. , Bliss M. , Heald S. , Sham T.K. , Heigl F. , Cao G.Z.
Published: June 2007

In this paper, we report the first successful fabrication of dense and optically transparent cadmium tungstate (CWO) films by sol-gel processing and the study of their optical and x-ray scintillation properties. A new sol-gel processing method was developed using tungstic acid and cadmium nitrate as precursors and hydrogen peroxide as solvent; homogeneous and stable CWO sols were aged at room temperature and used for the preparation of CWO films. A rapid sintering process was investigated and found to be necessary to make dense and optically transparent nanocrystalline CWO films. CWO films were uniform, fully dense, and crack-free, with CWO as the only detectable crystalline phase, as determined by x-ray diffraction. The thickness, density, grain size, and crystallinity of CWO films are all found to be strongly dependent on the sintering conditions and in turn impact the optical and x-ray scintillation properties. Sol-gel-derived dense CWO films demonstrated intense photoluminescence and x-ray excited optical luminescence intensity. The relationships between sol-gel processing, nanostructures, and optical and x-ray scintillation properties are discussed in detail.
A new masonry arch bridge assessment strategy (SMART)
Authors: Melbourne C. , Wang J. , Tomor A. K.
Published: June 2007

About 40% of the European railway bridge stock comprises masonry arch bridges and over 60% of these are over 100 years old. All are ageing and most are carrying loads well in excess of those envisaged by their builders. The maintenance and assessment of these bridges is a constant concern for the bridge owners. Although current masonry arch bridge assessment methods are able to predict the ultimate carrying capacity of the bridge with some confidence, serious concerns have been identified with respect to predicting long-term behaviour and residual life. A new assessment procedure (sustainable masonry arch resistance technique (SMART)) is presented which differs philosophically from all the current techniques in as much as it takes a holistic approach in considering all possible modes of failure that the structure may experience under any given loading regime. Limit states are discussed and a new permissible limit state that is specific for masonry is proposed. The method advocates consideration of the permissible working loads, long-term behaviour and residual life of the bridge. This enables the assessing engineer to prioritise conflicting maintenance demands on limited budgets. The method is based upon recent research related to the long-term fatigue performance of masonry arch bridges subjected to cyclic loading.
Stressors, Depressive Symptoms, and Learned Resourcefulness Among Taiwanese Adults With Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Huang Chiung-Yu , Sousa Valmi D. , Chen Hisu-Fung , Tu Shu-Yin , Chang Chia-Jen , Pan I-Ju
Published: June 2007

Learned resourcefulness may be an important and necessary resource for people with diabetes to adequately manage their disease. This study used a cross-sectional, descriptive correlation design to examine the relationships of demographic characteristics, stressors, learned resourcefulness, and depressive symptoms among adult Taiwanese with diabetes mellitus. A convenience sample of 131 individuals recruited from outpatient primary care centers from two major hospitals in Taiwan participated in this study. Data were collected with a demographic questionnaire, blood tests, Rosenbaum’s self-control schedule, and the Center for Epidemiological Studies depression scale. Data analysis consisted of descriptive statistics and regression analysis. Findings suggest that individuals with diabetes who had greater learned resourcefulness and better glycemic control also had fewer depressive symptoms. In addition, learned resourcefulness partially mediated the relationship between glycemic control and depressive symptoms.
Dysfunctional Core Beliefs in Eating Disorders: A Review
Authors: Jones Ceri , Leung N. , Harris G.
Published: June 2007

Until recently, it was widely accepted that eating-disordered symptoms are caused and maintained by patterns of maladaptive thinking (negative automatic thoughts and dysfunctional assumptions) regarding body size, shape, and weight. However, current research and clinical investigations suggest that broader patterns of maladaptive thinking exist in cognitive organization of eating psychopathology and that cognitive therapy for eating disorders might benefit from in-depth consideration of the individual’s cognitive content. For these reasons, research into the impact of core beliefs in eating disorders has increased in recent years. This article provides a review and critique of the existing findings. The main methodological problems of examining core beliefs in eating disorders are discussed, and the conceptual issues that arise in this area are also reviewed. Finally, suggestions for the directions of future research are also made.
The Effects of Using Imagery to Modify Core Emotional Beliefs in Bulimia Nervosa: An Experimental Pilot Study
Authors: Cooper Myra J. , Todd Gillian , Turner Hannah
Published: June 2007

Imagery modification was administered in a pilot study to patients with bulimia nervosa. The aim was to change patients’ emotionally held negative self-beliefs. Negative self-beliefs were identified and belief ratings obtained. A single session imagery intervention, focused on an early memory associated with these beliefs, was then conducted with the experimental group, while a control group received a control intervention. Significant changes were found in the experimental group, compared to the control group, in belief ratings for emotionally held negative self-belief ratings. Emotional (and rational) self-belief change was associated with mood and behavior change, including decreased urge to binge. The implications and limitations of the study are discussed.
Reliability, Validity, and Scoring of the Health Status Questionnaire-12 Version 2.0
Authors: Barry Teresa L. , Kaiser Katherine Laux , Atwood Jan R.
Published: June 2007

Measuring health status as an indicator of individual, population, and community health is critical in reducing health disparities in populations. The purpose of this study was to test the psychometric properties of the Health Status Questionnaire-12 (HSQ-12) Version 2.0, a brief self-reported health status instrument available within the public domain, in a lowincome sample (N = 7,793). The internal consistency reliability was .88. Initial and confirmatory factor analysis revealed two factors explaining 67% of the variance, interpreted as super scales of physical and mental health. Second order factor analysis isolated one factor explaining 82% of the variance, interpreted as a total health status. Comparison of subjects with and without disabilities using t tests and the Mann–Whitney U Test showed that the scale, super scale, and total scale scores differentiated significantly. The HSQ-12 is a reliable, valid, and low-cost measure of health status.
Description of Practice as an Ambulatory Care Nurse: Psychometric Properties of a Practice-Analysis Survey
Authors: Baghi Heibatollah , Panniers Teresa L. , Smolenski Mary C.
Published: June 2007

Changes within nursing demand that a specialty conduct periodic, appropriate practice analyses to continually validate itself against preset standards. This study explicates practice analysis methods using ambulatory care nursing as an exemplar. Data derived from a focus group technique were used to develop a survey that was completed by 499 ambulatory care nurses. The validity of the instrument was assessed using principal components analysis; reliability was estimated using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient. The focus group with ambulatory care experts produced 34 knowledge and activity statements delineating ambulatory care nursing practice. The survey data produced five factors accounting for 71% of variance in the data. The factors were identified as initial patient assessment, professional nursing issues and standards, client care management skills, technical/clinical skills, and system administrative operations. It was concluded that practice analyses delineate a specialty and provide input for certification examinations aimed at measuring excellence in a field of nursing.
Effect of Radiotransmitters on Northern Bobwhite Annual Survival
Authors: PALMER WILLIAM E. , WELLENDORF SHANE D.
Published: June 2007

Abstract: Radiotelemetry has been widely used in northern bobwhite (Colinus virginianus) research to estimate survival rates and other demographic parameters. Biologists have used this knowledge to study bobwhite ecology, develop management theory, and base management actions. We tested the assumption that radiotransmitters do not bias survival rates of bobwhites by comparing survival rates of banded bobwhites with and without radiotransmitters on Tall Timbers Research Station (TTRS) from 1999 to 2004. We used Burnham's model in Program MARK and model‐selection procedures to determine relative importance of year, gender, and radiotagged status on annual survival rates and recovery processes. Three plausible models (relative quasi‐likelihood Akaike's Information Criterion [ΔQAICc] < 3) included year dependence in survival and an additive effect of gender but no radiotransmitter effect. Models including a radiotransmitter effect in survival were >8 ΔQAICc from the top models, had low Akaike model weights (wi < 0.007), and low importance weight (S̀wi(radio) = 0.01). We also compared band—recapture survival estimates from the QAICc minimizing model to staggered entry Kaplan—Meier (KM) survival estimates from 2000 to 2003. Annual KM survival estimates of male and female bobwhites were within the 95% confidence interval of band—recapture estimates in 7 of 8 comparisons. We conclude that radiotelemetry is a reliable technique for determining bobwhite survival. Managers should view information from properly conducted telemetry research as reliable and useful for management.
Misclassified Resource Selection: Compositional Analysis and Unused Habitat
Authors: BINGHAM RALPH L. , BRENNAN LEONARD A. , BALLARD BART M.
Published: June 2007

Abstract: During the past decade, compositional analysis (CA) has been used widely in animal—habitat and resource selection studies. Despite this popularity, CA has not been tested for potential systematic biases such as incorrect identification of preferred resources. We used computer‐simulated data based on known habitat use and availability parameters to assess the potential for CA to incorrectly identify preferred habitat use. We consider in particular the situation when available habitat categories not used by all animals are included in the resource selection analysis, with substitution of a relatively small value, such as 0.01, for each 0% utilization value. Progressively larger misclassification‐error*** rates in preferred habitat use resulted from substituting progressively smaller positive values for each 0% utilization of a habitat category.