bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
'They Think You Shouldn't be Having Sex Anyway': Young People's Suggestions for Improving Sexuality Education Content
Authors: Allen Louisa
Published: September 2008

It has been recognized that to be effective, sexuality education must meet the needs and interests of young people (Aggleton and Campbell, 2000). However, this acknowledgement has often manifested in adults ultimately determining what young people's needs and interests are. This article focuses on what senior school students determine as important and relevant programme content from focus group and survey data. Participants' suggestions provide a critique of current sexuality education provision that is clinical, de-eroticized and didactic. Young people's calls for content about emotions in relationships, teenage parenthood, abortion and how to make sexual activity pleasurable offer insights into how they understand themselves as sexual subjects. Student responses position them as having the right to make their own decisions about sexual activity and to access knowledge that will enable their engagement in relationships that are physically and emotionally pleasurable. This positioning sits in conflict with the preferred non-sexual identity young people are offered by the official culture of many schools (Allen, 2007). It is proposed that this tension has implications for how programmes constitute student sexuality and their effectiveness in empowering young people to view their sexuality positively and make positive sexual decisions.
'That's Not Really My Scene': Working-Class Lesbians In (and Out of) Place
Authors: Taylor Yvette
Published: September 2008

In this article I consider working-class lesbians' views and experiences of commercialized scene space as these venues change in light of social, economic and political developments. Working-class lesbians both participated in and felt excluded from scene spaces, often criticizing them as 'pretentious' and 'unreal' for their cosmopolitan gloss. In this upgrading a politicized perspective was believed to have been sacrificed or in jeopardy, threatened by gendered and classed consumer-based expectations and inhabitations. The reproduction of such space via regeneration and sophistication mediates the construction of lesbian styles, appearances and identities, demarcating boundaries of inclusion across time and place. Interviewees spoke of scene developments and changes with a sense of loss, even nostalgia; their descriptions frequently conjured up binaries of now/then, political/apolitical, marginal/mainstream, metropolitan/provincial — producing an uneasy situation in and out of place. Such positionings illustrate material, embodied and felt exclusions, and tenuous inclusions, as this space is negotiated, contested and rejected.
`Out of frame'
Authors: Tonnelat Stéphane
Published: September 2008

This article examines interstices in the urban fabric using the example of two urban leftover spaces in Paris. The article first analyzes the institutional mode of treating these spaces, which explains the `framing' of the interstice as a temporary functionless space. It shows how interstices are not only institutionally created and controlled, as opposed to free, but also find a functional place as a temporary margin of maneuver in a process of decay, recycling and renewal enforced by landlords, the police and maintenance teams. Second, the article examines the improvised modes of action developed by diverse people in order to use the interstice. The article looks at what happens in the gaps of urban planning, when activities find a place in the interstice not in order to transform it, and bring it back into the realm of urban places, but to take advantage of its `in-between' position in the city. In practice, such activities are led by individuals who have to be `just passing', because the frame (Goffman, 1974) built by landlords and their agents prevents them from taking place. Under some conditions, `just passing' can give way to another type of involvement described as `out of frame', which in this case, allows a group of homeless people to settle in the interstice for a more durable period of time despite heavy surveillance.
The attractions of accountancy
Authors: Kelly Tobias
Published: September 2008

This article explores the meanings and implications of the `ordinary' in the midst of political violence. Alongside the spectacular acts of violence that have dominated the newspaper headlines, for most Palestinians the second intifada has also been marked by boredom and frustration. In the recent growth of the ethnography of armed conflict, there has been a danger of over-determining violence, ignoring the mundane nature of most political conflicts. This article therefore turns the recent ethnographic approach to political conflict on its head and focuses on the apparently mundane. In doing so, the article argues that for West Bank Palestinians, a sense of the ordinary is rooted in the obligations of kinship, and moves constantly between the `is' and the `ought', the mundane and the frightening, and the active and the passive. It is this movement that gives the `ordinary' such purchase, as it allows concrete experiences to be linked to distant aspirations.
Condom Use for Preventing STI/HIV and Unintended Pregnancy Among Young Men in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bankole Akinrinola , Singh Susheela , Hussain Rubina , Oestreicher Gabrielle
Published: September 2008

The condom is the only known method that provides simultaneous protection against unplanned pregnancy and some sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, among sexually active people. Using data from the Demographic and Health Surveys from 18 Sub-Saharan African countries, this study examined condom use and reasons for using the method at last intercourse among sexually active young men aged 15 to 29. Most young men were aware of the condom (73%-98%), but its use at last intercourse was quite variable, ranging from 6% in Madagascar to 74% in Namibia. In 10 countries, more young men reportedly used condoms for preventing STIs alone than they did for preventing pregnancy alone. In 6 countries, at least one third of the users used the method for both purposes. Use of the condom at last intercourse was associated with union status, education, residence, and exposure to television in at least two thirds of the countries.
Characterizing Triphasic, Biphasic, and Monophasic Doppler Waveforms
Authors: Scissons Robert
Published: September 2008

Doppler waveform analysis is a fundamental part of evaluating peripheral arterial disease. Waveform characteristics are traditionally defined as multiphasic (triphasic, biphasic) and monophasic. The purpose of this investigation is to evaluate whether sonography professionals correctly classify waveforms into these three categories. Thirty Doppler waveforms (15 continuous-wave [CW] and 15 pulsed-wave [PW] Doppler) were obtained from patients with previous noninvasive peripheral arterial evaluations. Participating readers were asked to interpret waveforms as triphasic, biphasic, or monophasic using standard definitions. “Other” was used to classify waveforms whose morphology could not be determined or accurately classified as triphasic, biphasic, or monophasic. Because multiphasic waveforms with pandiastolic flow have been associated with biphasic and monophasic waveform terminology, answer key responses were based on waveform descriptors used by interpreters of the originating noninvasive evaluation. There were a total of 97 participants, and of all Doppler waveforms, 73% were correctly identified (75% CW and 71% PW). Participants training or specializing in medical sonography misidentified an average of 27% triphasic, biphasic, or monophasic CW and PW Doppler waveforms and correctly interpreted more CW than PW waveforms. Because there is considerable variability among sonography professionals and educators in defining and classifying peripheral arterial waveforms, this issue deserves higher priority.
2D Sonographic Assessment of the Fetal Liver in Normal Pregnant Nigerian Women
Authors: Agwu Kenneth , Chiegwu H.U. , Nwobi I.C.
Published: September 2008

This study investigated the relationship between fetal liver volume (FLV) and gestational age (GA) in Nigerian subjects using 2D sonography. Fetal liver volume measurements were obtained from 900 normal singleton fetuses between 15 and 41 weeks GA (mean = 28 weeks). The FLV was computed from anterior-posterior, sagittal, and transverse dimensions of the fetal liver by assuming the liver to be a pyramidal structure. The mean FLV obtained ranged from 4.14 ± 0 cm 3 at 15 weeks to 76.88 ± 7.58 cm3 at 40 weeks and 79.45 ± 9.32 cm3 at 41 weeks. A simple regression analysis showed a positive linear relationship between GA and FLV ( r = 0.98), which is described by the equation FLV = 53.53 + 3.246 GA. A strong positive correlation was also noted between FLV and biparietal diameter (BPD; r = 0.968), FLV and head circumference ( r = 0.960), FLV and abdominal circumference ( r = 0.901), and FLV and fetal weight ( r = 0.979). Z test analysis showed no significant difference between GA estimated by FLV and GA estimated by BPD or femur length (α = 0.01). The use of FLV determined by 2D sonography has been shown to be accurate in dating pregnancy, and its use in a multiparameter biometry should improve the precision in predicting the expected date of delivery.
Evaluation and Optimization of Real-Time Perfusion Imaging Using Multiple Ultrasound Systems With Imagify Microspheres
Authors: Dittrich M. Teri , Epperly William C. , Kopelen Helen , Strachan G. Monet , Harden Michelle , Sandelski Joanne , Mahrous Heidi , Belcik Todd
Published: September 2008

Current commercially available ultrasound systems have proprietary contrast-specific imaging modes to evaluate myocardial contrast enhancement (MCE). Each of these modes uses a different pulsing scheme and has unique system terminology and a proprietary name. The aim of this study was to determine optimal system settings and MCE duration using Imagify (perflubutane polymer microspheres), a new ultrasound imaging agent undergoing development for perfusion stress echocardiography to detect coronary artery disease. Thirty-nine patients were enrolled. Four ultrasound systems with real-time, low mechanical index (nonlinear, multi-pulse) modes were evaluated. Optimal MCE settings were determined qualitatively in the apical views through systematic adjustment of multiple settings while maintaining a frame rate consistent with stress echocardiography to produce high-intensity (bright-hyperechoic), transmural myocardial enhancement. When using the clinical dose of Imagify during real-time imaging, the optimized settings for three ultrasound systems allowed prolonged, clinically useful MCE with a mean duration of 9.5 minutes.
Vibration assisted brazing of SiCp/A356 composites: Microstructure and mechanical behaviour
Authors: Yan J. C. , Xu H. B. , Shi L. , Wang X. L. , Yang S. Q.
Published: September 2008

Vibration assisted brazing of SiCp/A356 composites in air was investigated. A vibration was applied on one of the samples to be bonded at 375°C during brazing. The filler metal was extruded reciprocally and impacted intensively and reciprocally on the two surfaces of the base materials during vibrating. It can be found that most of the oxide film on the surface of the composites was disrupted and removed through the observation by SEM. The metallurgical bonds formed between the filler metal and the base materials. However, a lot of porosities were entrapped in the bond metal. A vibration was once more applied after the samples were continuously heated up to 520°C, and any porosity could not be found. The bonds mainly composed of a new alloy, which have a higher content of aluminium and free of porosities, show a higher shear strength of 178 MPa comparing to that of the base materials.
Effect of crystallographic anisotropy of β-tin grains on thermal fatigue properties of Sn–1Ag–0˙5Cu and Sn–3Ag–0˙5Cu lead free solder interconnects
Authors: Terashima S. , Kobayashi T. , Tanaka M.
Published: September 2008

An effect of the crystallographic anisotropy of β-tin grains on thermal fatigue properties of Sn–1Ag– 0˙5Cu and Sn–3Ag–0˙5Cu lead free solder interconnects were discussed. From an orientation imaging microscopic observation, three types of microstructures (single crystal-like, fine grain type and large grain type) were observed in both solders. The single crystal-like microstructure disappeared and the large grain type occurred by further fatigue due to recrystallisation. Because single crystal-like microstructure had the {100} plane approximately parallel to strain concentrated areas, recrystallisation could be retarded if the slip systems of {100}<011> or {100}<010> operate and an amount of thermal strain decreases because these slip systems have the larger critical resolved shear stress due to an anisotropic nature of β-tin. One of the reasons Sn–3Ag–0˙5Cu had longer thermal fatigue life than Sn–1Ag–0˙5Cu can be the number of the single crystal-like or the fine grain type microstructures in Sn–3Ag–0˙5Cu were larger.
Deformation behaviour of GH4169 nickel based superalloy in isothermal compression
Authors: Li M. Q. , Ju W. B. , Lin Y. Y. , Wang X. J. , Niu Y.
Published: September 2008

Isothermal compression of the GH4169 nickel based superalloy was carried out at a Thermecmaster-Z simulator at deformation temperatures of 930–1050°C at intervals of 20°C, strain rate of 0·1–50·0 s−1 and maximum height reduction of 60·0%. The deformation behaviour of the GH4169 superalloy in isothermal compression was characterised based on the stress–strain behaviour analysis. Constitutive equations described the flow stress as a function of strain rate, strain and deformation temperature were proposed for the isothermal compression of the GH4169 superalloy and a close agreement between the calculated and experimental stress–strain curves is achieved.
Surface roughness and morphology of polypropylene nanospheres: Effects of particles size
Authors: Paik P. , Kar K. K.
Published: September 2008

Nanosphere of polypropylene was synthesised under controlled growth condition. Its molecular weight is equivalent to the commercial grade polypropylene. The SEM is conducted in order to inspect the surface morphology. The surface roughness, i.e. surface roughness amplitude parameters R a (arithmetic average roughness) and root mean square roughness (RMS or R q) at nanoscale was calculated for nanoparticles by AFM. It is found that the surface profiles depend on particle size and it increases with increasing particle size. The asperity teeth height R p, valley R v and RMS R q of particles were also calculated and it was found that these parameters are particle size depended. The RMS values are found to be 6˙38 to 77˙72 Å as the particle size varies from 40 to 500 nm. The lower RMS values of polymer nanoparticles acknowledge the atomic scale chain folding. The surface roughness variability ( R q/ R a) of nanoparticles are also calculated and found to be above unity, which denotes an irregular spread of surface height.
Structural characterisation of anodic SiO2 thin films on n-type Si
Authors: Woon W. S. , Hutagalung S. D. , Cheong K. Y.
Published: September 2008

This article presents the results of anodic silicon dioxide (SiO2) thin film on n-type silicon substrate. A mixture of nitric acid and deionised water has been used as the electrolyte for the anodisation process. The effects of supplied voltage and oxidation time on the structural properties of film have been investigated. It has found that thickness, refractive index, density, porosity and dielectric constant of the anodised film are depending on the investigated parameters. Defect free anodic oxide with morphology of round shape spikes has been successfully grown on the substrate.
Microstructure and oxidation protective ability of MoSi2-SiC-Si coating toughened with SiC whiskers for carbon/carbon composites
Authors: Fu Q.-G. , Li H.-J. , Li K.-Z. , Shi X.-H.
Published: September 2008

To prevent carbon/carbon (C/C) composites from oxidation at high temperatures, a SiC whisker (SiCw) toughened MoSi2–SiC–Si coating was prepared on the C/C surface by a two step technique of slurry and pack cementation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis shows that, with the content of SiCw increasing, the dimensions and frequency of cracks in the coating decrease obviously. At the same time, the thickness and compact degree of the coating reduce with the increase of the SiCw content. Oxidation tests show that, as the content of SiCw is 10 wt-%, the coating possesses a better anti-oxidation property, and the weight loss of the coated sample is only 0˙8% after oxidation at 1773 K for 200 h. The weight loss of the as-coated C/C composites is primarily due to the reaction of the C/C matrix and oxygen diffusing through the penetration cracks and holes in the coating.
'A Native Instinct of Patriotism': Nationalism in the Australian Public Library, from Federation to the 1930s. A Case Study of the Public Library of Tasmania
Authors: Gaunt Heather
Published: September 2008

Investigates nationalism in the public library in Australia from Federation in 1901 to the 1930s. Australian public libraries actively participated in the nation building project and the creation of a differentiated Australian library culture through an assertion of the values of civic reform enhanced by new professionalism and an 'inscription of nation' through library commentary and practice. While this trend diminished in the short term after Federation, in the longer term Australian libraries maintained a commitment to nationalistic values, principally through the archiving of Australian historical papers and publications, and the assimilation of Australian fiction into their predominantly British collections. This paper examines these phenomena in relation to the Public Library of Tasmania, demonstrating how the peculiarities of the local history and environment, as well as the activities of library leaders and patrons, influenced the inscription of nation in the Library. In demonstrating these assertions, this paper will utilize some of the areas of examination proposed by G. K. Peatling, specifically discursive constructions of nations articulated by library administrators and commentators, stock control, and library law, amongst others.
A Guerrilla War in World War II: How the Library Association Fought the War Office and the Army — and Lost
Authors: Hung Margaret
Published: September 2008

During World War II, a 'guerrilla war' took place on home territory. Though less public and less bloody than the main conflict, it was conducted with single-minded determination, resulting in mutual recrimination and bitterness and resentment on the side of the losers. The unlikely guerrillas were the hierarchy of the Library Association, principally Arundell Esdaile, Lionel McColvin and P. S. J. Welsford (President, Honorary Secretary and Secretary, respectively) and the targets of its attacks were the allied forces of the Army and the War Office. The issues over which hostilities were conducted were the administration of the Services Central Book Depot, a military organization charged with the collection and distribution of books to the Armed Forces, and the control of the Service Libraries and Books Fund, a body set up by the Lord Mayor of London to raise funds and public donations of books. The underlying causes of the conflict were the irreconcilably different ideologies and cultural values held by the main protagonists and the ambitions of the Library Association to extend its influence and assert control over the supply of books to the Armed Forces.
hem6: an ENU-induced recessive hypochromic microcytic anemia mutation in the mouse
Authors: Tian Meng , Campagna Dean R. , Woodward Lanette S. , Justice Monica J. , Fleming Mark D.
Published: September 2008

Mouse models have proven invaluable for understanding erythropoiesis. Here, we describe an autosomal recessive, inherited anemia in the mouse mutant hem6. Hematologic and transplantation analyses reveal a mild, congenital, hypochromic, microcytic anemia intrinsic to the hematopoietic system that is associated with a decreased red blood cell zinc protoporphyrin to heme ratio, indicative of porphyrin insufficiency. Intercross matings show that hem6 can suppress the porphyric phenotype of mice with erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP). Furthermore, iron uptake studies in hem6 reticulocytes demonstrate defective incorporation of iron into heme that can be partially corrected by the addition of porphyrin precursors. Gene expression and enzymatic assays indicate that erythroid 5-aminolevulinic acid synthase (Alas2) is decreased in hem6 animals, suggesting a mechanism that could account for the anemia. Overall, these data lead to the hypothesis that hem6 encodes a protein that directly or indirectly regulates the expression of Alas2.
Cross-talk of GATA-1 and P-TEFb in megakaryocyte differentiation
Authors: Elagib Kamaleldin E. , Mihaylov Ivailo S. , Delehanty Lorrie L. , Bullock Grant C. , Ouma Kevin D. , Caronia Jill F. , Gonias Sara L. , Goldfarb Adam N.
Published: September 2008

The transcription factor GATA-1 participates in programming the differentiation of multiple hematopoietic lineages. In megakaryopoiesis, loss of GATA-1 function produces complex developmental abnormalities and underlies the pathogenesis of megakaryocytic leukemia in Down syndrome. Its distinct functions in megakaryocyte and erythroid maturation remain incompletely understood. In this study, we identified functional and physical interaction of GATA-1 with components of the positive transcriptional elongation factor P-TEFb, a complex containing cyclin T1 and the cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (Cdk9). Megakaryocytic induction was associated with dynamic changes in endogenous P-TEFb composition, including recruitment of GATA-1 and dissociation of HEXIM1, a Cdk9 inhibitor. shRNA knockdowns and pharmacologic inhibition both confirmed contribution of Cdk9 activity to megakaryocytic differentiation. In mice with megakaryocytic GATA-1 deficiency, Cdk9 inhibition produced a fulminant but reversible megakaryoblastic disorder reminiscent of the transient myeloproliferative disorder of Down syndrome. P-TEFb has previously been implicated in promoting elongation of paused RNA polymerase II and in programming hypertrophic differentiation of cardiomyocytes. Our results offer evidence for P-TEFb cross-talk with GATA-1 in megakaryocytic differentiation, a program with parallels to cardiomyocyte hypertrophy.
CD20 up-regulation in pediatric B-cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia during induction treatment: setting the stage for anti-CD20 directed immunotherapy
Authors: Dworzak Michael N. , Schumich Angela , Printz Dieter , Pötschger Ulrike , Husak Zvenyslava , Attarbaschi Andishe , Basso Giuseppe , Gaipa Giuseppe , Ratei Richard , Mann Georg , Gadner Helmut
Published: September 2008

CD20 is expressed in approximately one- half of pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cases with B-cell precursor (BCP) origin. We observed that it is occasionally up-regulated during treatment. To understand the impact of this on the potential effectiveness of anti-CD20 immunotherapy, we studied 237 CD10+ pediatric BCP-ALL patients with Berlin-Frankfurt-Munster (BFM)–type therapy. We analyzed CD20 expression changes from diagnosis to end-induction, focusing on sample pairs with more than or equal to 0.1% residual leukemic blasts, and assessed complement-induced cytotoxicity by CD20-targeting with rituximab in vitro. CD20-positivity significantly increased from 45% in initial samples to 81% at end-induction (day 15, 71%). The levels of expression also increased; 52% of cases at end-induction had at least 90% CD20pos leukemic cells, as opposed to 5% at diagnosis (day 15, 20%). CD20 up-regulation was frequent in high-risk patients, patients with high minimal residual disease at end-induction, and patients who suffered later from relapse, but not in TEL/AML1 cases. Notably, up-regulation occurred in viable cells sustaining chemotherapy. In vitro, CD20 up-regulation significantly enhanced rituximab cytotoxicity and could be elicited on prednisolone incubation. In conclusion, CD20 up-regulation is frequently induced in BCP-ALL during induction, and this translates into an acquired state of higher sensitivity to rituximab. This study was registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov as #NCT00430118.
LOMA: A fast method to generate efficient tagged-random primers despite amplification bias of random PCR on pathogens
Authors: Lee Wah Heng , Wong Christopher W , Leong Wan Yee , Miller Lance D , Sung Wing Kin
Published: September 2008

Background

Pathogen detection using DNA microarrays has the potential to become a fast and comprehensive diagnostics tool. However, since pathogen detection chips currently utilize random primers rather than specific primers for the RT-PCR step, bias inherent in random PCR amplification becomes a serious problem that causes large inaccuracies in hybridization signals.

Results

In this paper, we study how the efficiency of random PCR amplification affects hybridization signals. We describe a model that predicts the amplification efficiency of a given random primer on a target viral genome. The prediction allows us to filter false-negative probes of the genome that lie in regions of poor random PCR amplification and improves the accuracy of pathogen detection. Subsequently, we propose LOMA, an algorithm to generate random primers that have good amplification efficiency. Wet-lab validation showed that the generated random primers improve the amplification efficiency significantly.

Conclusion

The blind use of a random primer with attached universal tag (random-tagged primer) in a PCR reaction on a pathogen sample may not lead to a successful amplification. Thus, the design of random-tagged primers is an important consideration when performing PCR.
Automatic detection of exonic splicing enhancers (ESEs) using SVMs
Authors: Mersch Britta , Gepperth Alexander , Suhai Sándor , Hotz-Wagenblatt Agnes
Published: September 2008

Background

Exonic splicing enhancers (ESEs) activate nearby splice sites and promote the inclusion (vs. exclusion) of exons in which they reside, while being a binding site for SR proteins. To study the impact of ESEs on alternative splicing it would be useful to have a possibility to detect them in exons. Identifying SR protein-binding sites in human DNA sequences by machine learning techniques is a formidable task, since the exon sequences are also constrained by their functional role in coding for proteins.

Results

The choice of training examples needed for machine learning approaches is difficult since there are only few exact locations of human ESEs described in the literature which could be considered as positive examples. Additionally, it is unclear which sequences are suitable as negative examples. Therefore, we developed a motif-oriented data-extraction method that extracts exon sequences around experimentally or theoretically determined ESE patterns. Positive examples are restricted by heuristics based on known properties of ESEs, e.g. location in the vicinity of a splice site, whereas negative examples are taken in the same way from the middle of long exons. We show that a suitably chosen SVM using optimized sequence kernels (e.g., combined oligo kernel) can extract meaningful properties from these training examples. Once the classifier is trained, every potential ESE sequence can be passed to the SVM for verification. Using SVMs with the combined oligo kernel yields a high accuracy of about 90 percent and well interpretable parameters.

Conclusion

The motif-oriented data-extraction method seems to produce consistent training and test data leading to good classification rates and thus allows verification of potential ESE motifs. The best results were obtained using an SVM with the combined oligo kernel, while oligo kernels with oligomers of a certain length could be used to extract relevant features.
Transcriptional profiling of pea ABR17 mediated changes in gene expression in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Krishnaswamy Sowmya S , Srivastava Sanjeeva , Mohammadi Mohsen , Rahman Muhammad H , Deyholos Michael K , Kav Nat NV
Published: September 2008

Background

Pathogenesis-related proteins belonging to group 10 (PR10) are elevated in response to biotic and abiotic stresses in plants. Previously, we have shown a drastic salinity-induced increase in the levels of ABR17, a member of the PR10 family, in pea. Furthermore, we have also demonstrated that the constitutive expression of peaABR17cDNA inArabidopsis thalianaandBrassica napusenhances their germination and early seedling growth under stress. Although it has been reported that several members of the PR10 family including ABR17 possess RNase activity, the exact mechanism by which the aforementioned characteristics are conferred by ABR17 is unknown at this time. We hypothesized that a study of differences in transcriptome between wild type (WT) andABR17transgenicA. thalianamay shed light on this process.

Results

The molecular changes brought about by the expression of peaABR17cDNA inA. thalianain the presence or absence of salt stress were investigated using microarrays consisting of 70-mer oligonucleotide probes representing 23,686Arabidopsisgenes. Statistical analysis identified number of genes which were over represented among up- or down-regulated transcripts in the transgenic line. Our results highlight the important roles of many abscisic acid (ABA) and cytokinin (CK) responsive genes inABR17transgenic lines. Although the transcriptional changes followed a general salt response theme in both WT and transgenic seedlings under salt stress, many genes exhibited differential expression patterns when the transgenic and WT lines were compared. These genes include plant defensins, heat shock proteins, other defense related genes, and several transcriptional factors. Our microarray results for selected genes were validated using quantitative real-time PCR.

Conclusion

Transcriptional analysis inABR17transgenicArabidopsisplants, both under normal and saline conditions, revealed significant changes in abundance of transcripts for many stress responsive genes, as well as those related to plant growth and development. Our results also suggest thatABR17may mediate stress tolerance through the modulation of many ABA- and CK-responsive genes and may further our understanding of the role of ABR17 in mediating plant stress responses.
Fish consumption and its motives in households with versus without self-reported medical history of CVD: A consumer survey from five European countries
Authors: Pieniak Zuzanna , Verbeke Wim , Perez-Cueto Federico , Brunsø Karen , De Henauw Stefaan
Published: September 2008

Background

The purpose of this study was to explore the cross-cultural differences in the frequency of fish intake and in motivations for fish consumption between people from households with (CVD+) or without (CVD-) medical history of cardiovascular disease, using data obtained in five European countries.

Methods

A cross-sectional consumer survey was carried out in November-December 2004 with representative household samples from Belgium, the Netherlands, Denmark, Poland and Spain. The sample consisted of 4,786 respondents, aged 18–84 and who were responsible for food purchasing and cooking in the household.

Results

Individuals from households in the CVD+ group consumed fish more frequently in Belgium and in Denmark as compared to those in the CVD- group. The consumption of fatty fish, which is the main sources of omega-3 PUFA associated with prevention of cardiovascular diseases, was on the same level for the two CVD groups in the majority of the countries, except in Belgium where CVD+ subjects reported to eat fatty fish significantly more frequently than CVD- subjects. All respondents perceived fish as a very healthy and nutritious food product. Only Danish consumers reported a higher subjective and objective knowledge related to nutrition issues about fish. In the other countries, objective knowledge about fish was on a low level, similar for CVD+ as for CVD- subjects, despite a higher claimed use of medical information sources about fish among CVD+ subjects.

Conclusion

Although a number of differences between CVD- and CVD+ subjects with respect to their frequency of fish intake are uncovered, the findings suggest that fish consumption traditions and habits – rather than a medical history of CVD – account for large differences between the countries, particularly in fatty fish consumption. This study exemplifies the need for nutrition education and more effective communication about fish, not only to the people facing chronic diseases, but also to the broader public. European consumers are convinced that eating fish is healthy, but particular emphasis should be made on communicating benefits especially from fatty fish consumption.
Generation and characterization of a human single-chain fragment variable (scFv) antibody against cytosine deaminase from Yeast
Authors: Mallano Alessandra , Zamboni Silvia , Carpinelli Giulia , Santoro Filippo , Flego Michela , Ascione Alessandro , Gellini Mara , Tombesi Marina , Podo Franca , Cianfriglia Maurizio
Published: September 2008

Background

The ability of cytosine deaminase (CD) to convert the antifungal agent 5-fluorocytosine (5-FC) into one of the most potent and largely used anticancer compound such as 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) raised considerable interest in this enzyme to model gene or antibody – directed enzyme-prodrug therapy (GDEPT/ADEPT) aiming to improve the therapeutic ratio (benefit versus toxic side-effects) of cancer chemotherapy. The selection and characterization of a human monoclonal antibody in single chain fragment (scFv) format represents a powerful reagent to allow in in vitro and in vivo detection of CD expression in GDEPT/ADEPT studies.

Results

An enzymatic active recombinant CD from yeast (yCD) was expressed in E. coli system and used as antigen for biopanning approach of the large semi-synthetic ETH-2 antibody phage library. Several scFvs were isolated and specificity towards yCD was confirmed by Western blot and ELISA. Further, biochemical and functional investigations demonstrated that the binding of specific scFv with yCD did not interfere with the activity of the enzyme in converting 5-FC into 5-FU.

Conclusion

The construction of libraries of recombinant antibody fragments that are displayed on the surface of filamentous phage, and the selection of phage antibodies against target antigens, have become an important biotechnological tool in generating new monoclonal antibodies for research and clinical applications. The scFvH5 generated by this method is the first human antibody which is able to detect yCD in routinary laboratory techniques without interfering with its enzymatic function.
Antibody response dynamics to the Plasmodium falciparum conserved vaccine candidate antigen, merozoite surface protein-1 C-terminal 19kD (MSP1-19kD), in Peruvians exposed to hypoendemic malaria transmission
Authors: Torres Katherine J , Clark Eva H , Hernandez Jean N , Soto-Cornejo Katherine E , Gamboa Dionicia , Branch OraLee H
Published: September 2008

Background

In high-transmission areas, developing immunity to symptomaticPlasmodium falciparuminfections requires 2–10 years of uninterrupted exposure. Delayed malaria-immunity has been attributed to difficult-to-develop and then short-lived antibody responses.

Methods

In a study area with <0.5P. falciparuminfections/person/year, antibody responses to the MSP1-19kD antigen were evaluated and associations withP. falciparuminfections in children and adults. In months surrounding and during the malaria seasons of 2003–2004, 1,772 participants received ≥6 active visits in one study-year. Community-wide surveys were conducted at the beginning and end of each malaria season, and weekly active visits were completed for randomly-selected individuals each month. There were 79P. falciparuminfections with serum samples collected during and approximately one month before and after infection. Anti-MSP1-19kD IgG levels were measured by ELISA.

Results

The infection prevalence during February-July was similar in children (0.02–0.12 infections/person/month) and adults (0.03–0.14 infections/person/month) and was negligible in the four-month dry season. In children and adults, the seroprevalence was maintained in the beginning (children = 28.9%, adults = 61.8%) versus ending malaria-season community survey (children = 26.7%, adults = 64.6%). Despite the four-month non-transmission season, the IgG levels inPlasmodium-negative adults were similar toP. falciparum-positive adults. Although children frequently responded upon infection, the transition from a negative/low level before infection to a high level during/after infection was slower in children. Adults and children IgG-positive before infection had reduced symptoms and parasite density.

Conclusion

Individuals in low transmission areas can rapidly develop and maintain αMSP1-19kD IgG responses for >4 months, unlike responses reported in high transmission study areas. A greater immune capacity might contribute to the frequent asymptomaticP. falciparuminfections in this Peruvian population.
An increase of cereal intake as an approach to weight reduction in children is effective only when accompanied by nutrition education: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Rosado Jorge L , del R Arellano María , Montemayor Karina , García Olga P , Caamaño María del C
Published: September 2008

Background

The main emphasis of dietary advice for control of obesity has been on reducing dietary fat. Increasing ready to eat cereal (RTEC) consumption could be a strategy to reduce fat intake and increase carbohydrate intake resulting in a diet with lower energy density.

Objectives

1. To determine if an increase in RTEC intake is an effective strategy to reduce excess body weight and blood lipids in overweight or at risk of overweight children. 2. To determine if a nutrition education program would make a difference on the response to an increase in cereal intake. 3) To determine if increase in RTEC intake alone or with a nutrition education program has an effect on plasma lipid profile.

Experimental design

One hundred and forty seven overweight or at risk of overweight children (6–12 y of age) were assigned to one of four different treatments: a. One serving of 33 ± 7 g of RTEC for breakfast; b. one serving of 33 ± 7 g of RTEC for breakfast and another one for dinner; c. one serving of 33 ± 7 g of RTEC for breakfast and a nutrition education program. d. Non intervention, control group. Anthropometry, body composition, physical activity and blood lipids were measured at baseline, before treatments, and 12 weeks after treatments.

Results

After 12 weeks of intervention only the children that received 33 ± 7 g of RTEC and nutrition education had significantly lower body weight [-1.01 (-1.69, -0.34) ], p < 0.01], lower BMI [-0.95 (-1.71, -0.20), p < 0.01] and lower total body fat [-0.71 (-1.71, 0.28), p < 0.05] compared with the control group [1.19 (0.39, 1.98), 0.01 (-0.38, 0.41), 0.44 (-0.46, 1.35) respectively]. Plasma triglycerides and VLDL were significantly reduced [-20.74 (-36.44, -5.05), -3.78 (-6.91, -0.64) respectively, p < 0.05] and HDL increased significantly [6.61 (2.15, 11.08), p < 0.01] only in this treatment group. The groups that received 1 or 2 doses of RTEC alone were not significantly different to the control group.

Conclusion

A strategy to increase RTEC consumption, as a source of carbohydrate, to reduce obesity is effective only when accompanied by nutrition education. The need for education could be extrapolated to other strategies intended for treatment of obesity.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clincial Trial Registry. Request no: ACTRN12608000025336
The relationships among endurance performance measures as estimated from VO2PEAK, ventilatory threshold, and electromyographic fatigue threshold: a relationship design
Authors: Graef Jennifer L , Smith Abbie E , Kendall Kristina L , Walter Ashley A , Moon Jordan R , Lockwood Christopher M , Beck Travis W , Cramer Joel T , Stout Jeffrey R
Published: September 2008

Background

The use of surface electromyography has been accepted as a valid, non-invasive measure of neuromuscular fatigue. In particular, the electromyographic fatigue threshold test (EMGFT) is a reliable submaximal tool to identify the onset of fatigue. This study examined the metabolic relationship between VO2PEAK, ventilatory threshold (VT), and the EMGFT, as well as compared the power output at VO2PEAK, VT, and EMGFT.

Methods

Thirty-eight college-aged males (mean ± SD = 22.5 ± 3.5 yrs) performed an incremental test to exhaustion on an electronically-braked cycle ergometer for the determination of VO2PEAK and VT. Each subject also performed a discontinuous incremental cycle ergometer test to determine their EMGFT value, determined from bipolar surface electrodes placed on the longitudinal axis of the vastus lateralis of the right thigh. Subjects completed a total of four, 2-minute work bouts (ranging from 75–325 W). Adequate rest was given between bouts to allow for subjects' heart rate to drop within 10 beats of their resting heart rate. The EMG amplitude was averaged over 10-second intervals and plotted over the 2-minute work bout. The resulting slopes from each successive work bout were used to calculate EMGFT.

Results

Power outputs and VO2 values from each subject's incremental test to exhaustion were regressed. The linear equations were used to compute the VO2 value that corresponded to each fatigue threshold. Two separate one-way repeated measure ANOVAs indicated significant differences (p < 0.05) among metabolic parameters and power outputs. However, the mean metabolic values for VT (1.90 ± 0.50 l·min-1) and EMGFTVO2(1.84 ± 0.53 l·min-1) were not significantly different (p > 0.05) and were highly correlated (r = 0.750). Furthermore, the mean workload at VT was 130.7 ± 37.8 W compared with 134.1 ± 43.5 W at EMGFT (p > 0.05) with a strong correlation between the two variables (r = 0.766).

Conclusion

Metabolic measurements, as well as the power outputs at VT and EMGFT, were strongly correlated. The significant relationship between VT and EMGFT suggests that both procedures may reflect similar physiological factors associated with the onset of fatigue. As a result of these findings, the EMGFT test may provide an attractive alternative to estimating VT.
Allogeneic endometrial regenerative cells: An "Off the shelf solution" for critical limb ischemia?
Authors: Murphy Michael P , Wang Hao , Patel Amit N , Kambhampati Suman , Angle Niren , Chan Kyle , Marleau Annette M , Pyszniak Andrew , Carrier Ewa , Ichim Thomas E , Riordan Neil H
Published: September 2008

Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is an advanced form of peripheral artery disease which is responsible for approximately 100,000 amputations per year in the US. Trials to date have reported clinical improvement and reduced need for amputation in CLI patients receiving autologous bone marrow or mobilized peripheral blood stem cells for stimulation of angiogenesis. While such treatments are currently entering Phase III trials, practical and scientific pitfalls will limit widespread implementation if efficacy is proven. Hurdles to be overcome include: a) reduced angiogenic potential of autologous cells in aged patients with cardiovascular risk factors; b) invasiveness/adverse effects of bone marrow extraction and G-CSF mobilization, respectively; and c) need for on-site cellular manipulation. The Endometrial Regenerative Cell (ERC) is a mesenchymal-like stem cell derived from the menstrual blood that is believed to be associated with endometrial angiogenesis. We discuss the possibility of using allogeneic ERCs as an "off the shelf" treatment for CLI based on the following properties: a) High levels of growth factors and matrix metalloprotease production; b) Ability to inhibits inflammatory responses and lack of immunogenicity; and c) Expandability to great quantities without loss of differentiation ability or karyotypic abnormalities.
ICPD to MDGs: Missing links and common grounds
Authors: Abrejo Farina G , Shaikh Babar T , Saleem Sarah
Published: September 2008

The ICPD agenda of reproductive health was declared as the most comprehensive one, which had actually broadened the spectrum of reproductive health and drove the states to embark upon initiatives to improve reproductive health status of their populations. However, like all other countries, Pakistan also seems to have shifted focus of its policies and programs towards achieving MDGs. As a result, concepts highlighted in the ICPD got dropped eventually. In spite of specific goals on maternal and child mortalities in MDGs and all the investment and policy shift, Pakistan has still one of the highest maternal mortality ratios among developing countries. Lack of synchronized efforts, sector wide approaches, inter-sectoral collaboration, and moreover, the unmet need for family planning, unsafe abortions, low literacy rate and dearth of women empowerment are the main reasons. Being a signatory of both of the international agendas (ICPD and MDGs), Pakistan needed to articulate its policies to keep the balance between the two agendas. There are, however, certainly some common grounds which have been experimented by various countries and we can learn lessons from those best practices. An inter-sectoral cooperation and sector wide approaches would be required to achieve such ambitious goals set out in ICPD-Program of Action while working towards MDGs. There is a need of increasing resource allocation, strengthening primary health care services and emergency obstetric care and motivating the human resource employed in health sector by good governance. These endeavors should lead to formulate evidence based national policies, reproductive health services which are affordable, accessible and culturally acceptable and finally a responsive health system.
Impaired expression of mitochondrial and adipogenic genes in adipose tissue from a patient with acquired partial lipodystrophy (Barraquer-Simons syndrome): a case report
Authors: Guallar Jordi P , Rojas-Garcia Ricardo , Garcia-Arumi Elena , Domingo Joan C , Gallardo Eduardo , Andreu Antoni L , Domingo Pere , Illa Isabel , Giralt Marta , Villarroya Francesc
Published: September 2008

Introduction

Acquired partial lipodystrophy or Barraquer-Simons syndrome is a rare form of progressive lipodystrophy. The etiopathogenesis of adipose tissue atrophy in these patients is unknown.

Case presentation

This is a case report of a 44-year-old woman with acquired partial lipodystrophy. To obtain insight into the molecular basis of lipoatrophy in acquired partial lipodystrophy, we examined gene expression in adipose tissue from this patient newly diagnosed with acquired partial lipodystrophy. A biopsy of subcutaneous adipose tissue was obtained from the patient, and DNA and RNA were extracted in order to evaluate mitochondrial DNA abundance and mRNA expression levels.

Conclusion

The expression of marker genes of adipogenesis and adipocyte metabolism, including the master regulatorPPARγ, was down-regulated in subcutaneous adipose tissue from this patient. Adiponectin mRNA expression was also reduced but leptin mRNA levels were unaltered. Markers of local inflammatory status were unaltered. Expression of genes related to mitochondrial function was reduced despite unaltered levels of mitochondrial DNA. It is concluded that adipogenic and mitochondrial gene expression is impaired in adipose tissue in this patient with acquired partial lipodystrophy.