bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Freud and the sexual drive before 1905: from hesitation to adoption
Authors: Cotti Patricia
Published: July 2008

A close study of Freud's use of the terms Trieb, Impuls, etc., allows an insight into Freud's sources of Inspiration, through which I interrogate the importance he gradually granted the concept of drive before 1905. Freud first tentatively introduced the notion of 'sexual drive forces', then developed the hypothesis of a 'communication drive'. There was much hesitancy in his defining the notion of sexual drive. He eventually adopted a concept widely used by psychiatrists at the time, which played a part in the recurrence of an innate — then hereditary — theory in psychoanalysis.
Reconciling Foucault and Skinner on the state: the primacy of politics?
Authors: Walter Ryan
Published: July 2008

Foucault and Skinner have each offered influential accounts of the emergence of the state as a defining element of modern political thought. Yet the two accounts have never been brought into dialogue; this non-encounter is made more interesting by the fact that Foucault's and Skinner's accounts are at odds with one another. There is therefore much to be gained by examining this divergence. In this article I attempt this task by first setting out the two accounts of the state, and then some of the methodological strictures each thinker has suggested. I argue that the divergence between Foucault's and Skinner's accounts of the state is indeed driven by differences in method, as we might expect; but I also argue that these differences in method can themselves be well explained by the differing political motivations each thinker has at times articulated. Thus it is possible to make politics, and not method, the privileged point of this reconciliation.
How Study Abroad Shapes Global Careers
Authors: Mohajeri Norris Emily , Gillespie Joan
Published: July 2008

What is the impact of study abroad on U.S. college students’ career paths? What factors of education abroad differentiate alumni who later worked or volunteered for international organizations in the United States and/or in other countries compared with alumni who did not pursue global-career experiences? This article presents findings that address these questions, as indicated by data from a survey the Institute for the International Education of Students conducted of 17,000 participants of its programs between 1950 and 1999. The study illustrates the significant career impact of study abroad on the majority of respondents. The career impact and continued use of foreign language are much greater for alumni who worked internationally than for those who did not. Study abroad for a full year, host university course enrollment, internship participation, and host family living arrangements are all program factors that correlate strongly with future international work.
The Dilemma of Gender Specialization
Authors: Treas Judith
Published: July 2008

The greater the gender specialization in marriage, the less the overlap in the skill sets and motivations of the partners. The less the overlap, the less readily can the labor of the husband substitute for or augment the labor of the wife (and vice versa). With data on 26 countries from the 2001 International Social Survey Program, this specialization-substitution argument is evaluated based on wives' preferences for household help and emotional support. As predicted, women in more specialized marriages are more likely to favor kin and others over the husband for assistance. In countries where the public approves of traditional gender roles and men avoid “woman's work” in the home, wives are more likely than their counterparts elsewhere to prefer the assistance of kin and others over the husband's help.
Modeling Emotional Dynamics: Currency Versus Field
Authors: Sallach David L.
Published: July 2008

Randall Collins has introduced a simplified model of emotional dynamics in which emotional energy, heightened and focused by interaction rituals, serves as a common denominator for social exchange: a generic form of currency, except that it is active in a far broader range of social transactions. While the scope of this theory is attractive, the specifics of the model remain unconvincing.

After a critical assessment of the currency theory of emotion, a field model of emotion is introduced that adds expressiveness by locating emotional valence within its cognitive context, thereby creating an integrated orientation field. The result is a model which claims less in the way of motivational specificity, but is more satisfactory in modeling the dynamic interaction between cognitive and emotional orientations at both individual and social levels.
Applying Constructivism to Nursing Education in Cultural Competence
Authors: Hunter Jennifer L.
Published: July 2008

A graduate course on culture, diversity, and cultural competence was developed based on constructivist learning theory and Campinha-Bacote's constructs of cultural awareness, knowledge, skill, and encounters. The epistemology, structure, assignments, and activities used in both online and classroom courses were highly effective and well received by the students. Student course evaluations and outcome assessments of students' cultural competence levels, as compared to precourse levels, provided supportive evidence that the course design produced intended outcomes. Course resources are shared, making them available for use by others in cultural competence education.
Reflections on a Conversation With a Curandera
Authors: Amerson Roxanne
Published: July 2008

A curandera is recognized as a “culture or folk practitioner” in Latino cultures. Is the role of a curandera relevant to teaching transcultural nursing care in today's health care environment? Preconceived ideas of both Latino and non-Latino people have influenced how nurses and physicians view the role of the curandera. This article describes the lessons learned by the author and serves as encouragement for other nurses to be willing to incorporate the cultural practices of the curandera into modern health care.
A Novel Semi-active Magnetorheological Bushing Design for Variable Displacement Engines
Authors: Arzanpour S. , Golnaraghi M.F.
Published: July 2008

This study introduces the concept of smart materials, namely magnetorheological (MR) fluids, to the design of automotive engine isolation systems. Hydraulic bushings and mounts are widely used in the automobile industry to isolate the engine and chassis from each other. The simplicity and low cost associated with these types of bushing, in addition to their dual frequency response characteristics, are the main reasons for their industrial popularity. Recently with the introduction of variable displacement engines (VDE), the conventional bushings have reached their performance limits. A more versatile isolator is therefore required to handle the additional vibration and disturbances in VDE, associated with the change in the engine displacement whenever the automobile does not use its full displacement capacity for maintaining the desired speed. The realization is that the appropriate isolator should be half as stiff in the operating frequency range of the three cylinder mode of the engine. In addition, in the full cylinder mode the isolator must maintain the performance levels comparable to existing conventional products.

This study introduces a cost-effective semi-active bushing for the VDE isolation problem. After a study of the VDE systems, different modes of engine performances in those systems are discussed, and the ideal isolator features for this type of engine are identified. The hydraulic bushing frequency response is then obtained experimentally. Based on the experimental results, a simple semi-active bushing proof-of-concept design is developed and tested, which utilizes a short inertia track to satisfy the soft isolator requirement in VDE mode. A mathematical model of the semi-active system is generated, and its validity is verified experimentally. The damping requirement of this semi-active isolator is produced by utilizing a MR compliance chamber. This innovative solution reduces the amount of expensive MR fluid requirements of the bushing. The experimental results on the semi-active bushing system, using a magnetic shaker, show the merit of the system for the VDE application.
Modeling of Carbon Nanotube Actuators: Part I — Modeling and Electrical Properties
Authors: Riemenschneider Johannes , Opitz Steffen , Sinapius Michael , Monner Hans Peter
Published: July 2008

The outstanding electrical and mechanical properties of single carbon nanotubes (CNT) are the motivation for an intensive research in various fields of application. The actuation effect constitutes the foundation for any application as a multifunctional material and within the field of adaptronics. The effect is in the majority of cases investigated by a CNT configuration of stochastically aligned CNT, so-called bucky-paper, in an electrolytic environment. The article presents an analytical model for a detailed understanding and investigation of the actuation process. The complete description and parameterization of the model is documented in two parts. In the first part the model is developed, the test setup for the model validation and parameter identification is elucidated, and the electrical parameters are determined. In the second part the mechanical system and the actuating effect will be examined. Finally the applicability of the model will be examined.
High Energy Density Nastic Materials: Parameters for Tailoring Active Response
Authors: Freeman Eric , Weiland Lisa Mauck
Published: July 2008

The engineered active material considered mimics bulk deformation similar to nastic movements in the plant kingdom. Controlled transport of charge and fluid across a selectively permeable membrane employing biological processes is employed to achieve bulk deformation. The membrane may contain biological ion pumps, ion channels, and ion exchangers surrounding a spherical inclusion in a polymer matrix; in this study only ion pumps and exchangers are considered. This work examines parameters of significance to designs employing active materials, including free strain, blocked stress, impedance matched work, and rate of response. The effects of varying material design parameters, such as system geometry and membrane permeability are considered to aid in the custom design of an active material appropriate to a given application. Predictions suggest that the rate of initial response may be on the order of msec with impedance matched work in excess of 200 kJ/m3.
Direct Presidential Elections and Turnout in Parliamentary Contests
Authors: Tavits Margit
Published: July 2008

The method of electing the head of state in a parliamentary system is a critical constitutional matter. A popular argument made is that allowing direct presidential elections strengthens democratic practices. Another argument posits that multiplying the number of political contests may fatigue voters and decrease their participation levels. This article considers electoral turnout in a global sample of parliamentary democracies with a nonhereditary head of state from 1945 to 2006 and finds that direct presidential elections decrease turnout in parliamentary elections by about 7 percentage points. This effect is stronger than that of most existing explanations of turnout.
God Talk
Authors: Calfano Brian Robert , Djupe Paul A.
Published: July 2008

It was revealed in 2006 that Republican candidates employ a type of religious code in their political speeches. Their intention is to cue the support of religiously conservative voters without alienating other voters who may not share the same social issue agenda. The authors assess the efficacy of this GOP Code on the support of voters in specific religious traditions in an experimental setting. As expected, the code proves to be an effective cue for white evangelical Protestants but has no effect on mainline Protestants and Catholics. The form and function of the code expands our understanding of religious influence and broadens the spectrum of cues the electorate uses.
Conditions for Competition in Low-Information Judicial Elections
Authors: Streb Matthew J. , Frederick Brian
Published: July 2008

Although much work has examined the conditions for competition and incumbent defeat in high-visibility elections, scholars have conducted little research on these conditions for less visible offices. We look at one particular type of low-information election: those to state intermediate appellate courts (IAC). Using a comprehensive data set of all IAC elections involving incumbents from 2000 to 2007, we estimate models of challenger entry and incumbent success once challenged. Our results comport, in some cases, and diverge, in others, with the findings of studies of more visible judicial and legislative offices.
Aspects of Intercultural Awareness Through an MBA Study Abroad Program: Going “Backstage”
Authors: Tuleja Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2008

Understanding the globalization of business practices is an important area of learning for students studying in master of business administration (MBA) programs today, and many graduate business programs offer study tour programs for experiential learning. This article examines the instructional design of one program and makes recommendations for how to place greater emphasis on intercultural learning in conjunction with business learning. A description of student learning through presurveys and postsurveys, as well as reflections through term papers, is explored.
The Case for Education in Virtual Worlds
Authors: Nesson Rebecca , Nesson Charles
Published: July 2008

This article is a practical, often ethnographically based, argument for the current value and future potential of virtual worlds in education that attempts to specifically address the concerns and reservations of the many thoughtful educators and observers who are not yet convinced. It relates our experience teaching the course `CyberOne: Law in the Court of Public Opinion` at Harvard and in Second Life and the principles for successful teaching in a virtual environment that we derived from it: (a) use the technology for what it is good for and not for what it does not do well, (b) seek advantages in what appear to be limitations, and (c) where new capabilities are offered, find ways to use them.
Dude-Sex: White Masculinities and `Authentic' Heterosexuality Among Dudes Who Have Sex With Dudes
Authors: Ward Jane
Published: July 2008

Based on examination of an online community in which white `str8'-identified men assert that sex with other white men bolsters their heterosexual masculinity, this article examines the heterosexual and racialized meanings that white str8 dudes attach to their same-sex behaviors. The study points to the role of whiteness in the process of establishing heterosexual `realness', or believable straight culture. Findings indicate that for the white str8 dude, Black male bodies disrupt the staging of normal `male bonding', and occupy a distinctly queerer space `down low'. I argue that in a culture constituted by both a racial and sexual binary, whiteness and heterosexuality are `natural' bedfellows that simultaneously signify the `really, really normal' subject.
In Defense of Gay Children? `Progay' Homophobia and the Production of Homonormativity
Authors: Bryant Karl
Published: July 2008

This article analyzes putatively homophobic rhetoric and practices and their antihomophobic responses to understand how homophobia and antihomophobia may work together to produce `homonormative' gay subjects. It does so by investigating current debates over the pathologization of homosexuality and gender nonconformity, specifically examining charges that the psychiatric diagnosis Gender Identity Disorder of Childhood (GIDC) is homophobic. The author argues that emerging forms of homophobia, or `progay homophobias', are key to our understandings of anti-queer sentiments in an era of increased tolerance for homosexuality.
`The Puerto Rican Way is More Tolerant': Constructions and Uses of `Homophobia' among Santería Practitioners Across Ethno-Racial and National Identification
Authors: Vidal-Ortiz Salvador
Published: July 2008

Existing academic analyses of Santería portray it either as homophobic because of its hierarchical restrictions, or as the ultimate liberatory space for `sexual minorities'. Meanwhile, complicated uses of homophobia circulate in Santería in ways often overlooked because of these aforementioned portrayals. This article examines constructions of homophobia as rooted in Whiteness/gayness, and how communities of color reproduce homophobia narratives. It then analyzes the charges of homophobia in relation to the everyday experiences and views among a group of US Santeros — many of whom are US ethno-racial minorities. I posit that national identity and ethno-racial background are key elements used by Santería practitioners in charging each other with homophobia. This argument has implications for the study of Santería spaces of worship, ethnic and racial studies, and sexualities more broadly.
Cultural Consensus and Cultural Diversity
Authors: Collins Cyleste C. , Dressler William W.
Published: July 2008

This study uses mixed methods and theory from cognitive anthropology to examine the cultural models of domestic violence among domestic violence agency workers, welfare workers, nurses, and a general population comparison group. Data collection and analysis uses quantitative and qualitative techniques, and the findings are integrated for interpretation. Findings reveal consensus among service providers on how controllable domestic violence factors are and whether they are most characteristic of victims or perpetrators, but diversity with regard to their understandings of the importance of the factors suggesting that occupational category alone is inadequate in predicting service providers' beliefs and subsequent delivery of services. The implications of the findings extend into the areas of domestic violence service delivery, cognitive anthropology, and mixed methods research.
The 2003 Licensing Act's impact on crime and disorder
Authors: Hough Mike , Hunter Gillian
Published: July 2008

The Licensing Act 2003, coming into force in November 2005 in England and Wales, abolished set licensing hours for pubs and clubs. The aim was to liberalize a rigid system while reducing the problems of drinking and disorder associated with a standard closing time. This article summarizes the results of an evaluation funded by the Home Office. Despite widespread concern that the legislation would lead to `24-hour drinking' and an increase in associated problems, the experience of the first year shows very little change. The scale of change in licensing hours was variable but modest: while the majority of pubs extended their hours, most of these extensions were short. Thus the average national increase in opening hours was small. Alcohol consumption showed a slight fall. There was no obvious impact on violent crime and disorder, according to a range of measures, including crime statistics, victim surveys and medical statistics. These results are not particularly consistent with findings in other jurisdictions which have relaxed controls over opening hours of pubs and clubs.
The Children's Fund and the prevention of crime and anti-social behaviour
Authors: Mason Paul , Prior David
Published: July 2008

Early intervention prevention programmes form a significant element in the UK's complex and sometimes contradictory youth justice system. This article focuses on one such national programme in England, the Children's Fund, which has combined a broad aim of tackling children's social exclusion with a specific objective of reducing youth crime and anti-social behaviour, influenced by the Youth Justice Board's risk factors paradigm. In order to understand how these aims have been pursued in practice, the article discusses findings from a `Theory of Change' evaluation of a range of preventative initiatives developed through a single Children's Fund programme located in a large English city. The article discusses the implications of this kind of programme for the development of socially inclusive interventions with children and young people thought to be `at risk' of involvement in crime and anti-social behaviour, but also draws attention to uncertainties and tensions in the relationship between risk-based crime prevention interventions and initiatives addressing broader aspects of young people's social exclusion. The advantages of the Theory of Change approach to the evaluation of complex initiatives are also briefly considered.
Determining the impact of intoxication in a desert-based sentencing framework
Authors: Dingwall Gavin , Koffman Laurence
Published: July 2008

Research has consistently found a significant correlation between alcohol consumption and offending. Although this finding does not prove any direct causal link, many offenders subsequently claim that the fact that they had been drinking should mitigate their sentence. As the argument advanced by offenders is framed in retributive terms—culpability is reduced because of intoxication—this article aims to analyse the impact, if any, that intoxication should have under a desert model.
Lipopolysaccharide associates with pro-atherogenic lipoproteins in periodontitis patients
Authors: Kallio K.A. Elisa , Buhlin Kåre , Jauhiainen Matti , Keva Ritva , Tuomainen Anita M. , Klinge Björn , Gustafsson Anders , Pussinen Pirkko J.
Published: July 2008

Introduction: Periodontitis patients are known to suffer from endotoxemia, which may be among the major risk factors for atherosclerosis. In health, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is mainly carried with high density lipoprotein (HDL) particles. Shift of LPS toward lipoproteins with lower densities may result in less effective endotoxin scavenging. Our aim was to determine plasma LPS activity and lipoprotein-distribution before and after treatment in periodontitis patients.

Patients and Methods: Very low and intermediate density (VLDL-IDL), low density (LDL), HDL 2, HDL3, and lipoprotein-deficient plasma (LPDP) were isolated by sequential ultracentrifugation. Patients included 34 subjects aged 53.5 ± 8.3 years, before and 6 months after periodontal treatment.

Results: The mean LPS distribution decreased among lipoprotein classes as follows: VLDL-IDL 41.3 ± 12.1%, LPDP 25.0 ± 7.0%, HDL3 13.1 ± 5.2%, LDL 11.5 ± 3.7%, and HDL2 9.2 ± 2.8%. Plasma and VLDL-IDL-associated LPS correlated positively, and LDL- and HDL-associated LPS negatively with clinical periodontal parameters and plasma cytokine concentrations. Mean plasma LPS activity increased after periodontal treatment from 44.0 ± 17.0 to 55.7 ± 24.2 EU/ml ( P = 0.006). No significant changes were found in LPS lipoprotein distribution and lipoprotein compositions after the treatment.

Conclusions: Endotoxemia increases with severity of periodontitis. In periodontitis, LPS associates preferentially with the pro-atherogenic VLDL-IDL fraction. Periodontal treatment has only minor effects on plasma LPS activity or distribution, which reflects persistence of the disease.
Host species-specific usage of the TLR4-LPS receptor complex
Authors: Lizundia Regina , Sauter Kay-Sara , Taylor Geraldine , Werling Dirk
Published: July 2008

Recognition of LPS depends on the interaction of at least three molecules forming the LPS-receptor complex. The most important ones, CD14, MD2 and Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4 share a high degree of homology between species. In the present study, we investigated the importance of species-specific restriction on the recognition of LPS using stably transfected HEK293 cell lines expressing either human or bovine LPS-receptor complex components. Species-specific MD2 appeared to confer LPS recognition, whereas species-specific CD14 only appeared to play a minor role. In addition to the recognition of LPS, there is evidence that the fusion (F) protein of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which is the most common viral respiratory pathogen during infancy world-wide, interacts with TLR4, and plays an important role in the initiation of the innate immune response. Our findings suggest that human and bovine RSV may activate human and bovine TLR4 receptors, respectively, in the presence of both MD2 and CD14. However, no clear role for the RSV F protein of either human or bovine RSV alone in stimulating TLR4-dependent NF-κB activation was observed.
Microstructure and physical properties of Al/diamond composite fabricated by pressureless infiltration
Authors: Chen N. , Pan X.-F. , Gu M.-Y.
Published: July 2008

The Al/diamond composite was fabricated using a pressureless infiltration method. The microstructure and physical properties of the composite were investigated. The composite has a very low coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of 3·9 × 10−6 K−1. The thermal conductivity (TC) of the composite is 12% higher than that of the Al alloy matrix. The lower TC of the composite than the expected value was attributed to the existence of interfacial low conducting phases and the porocity of the composite.
Steel to aluminium braze welding by laser process with Al–12Si filler wire
Authors: Sierra G. , Peyre P. , Beaume F. Deschaux , Stuart D. , Fras G.
Published: July 2008

The joining of DC04 steel to 6016-T4 Al alloy is achieved by laser braze welding using a 4047 (Al–12Si) filler wire and a brazing flux. The dissimilar joining is obtained both by welding the parent 6016 alloy to the 4047 filler wire, producing a continuous bonding without apparent macroscopic flaws, and by reactive wetting of the molten Al alloy on the solid steel, resulting in the formation of a thin layer of Fe–Al–Si intermetallic compounds at the steel/bead interface. The linear strength of the assemblies can be as high as 190 N mm−1, with a failure generally located in the reaction layer of the steel/bead interface. Last, the strength of the assemblies is shown to increase linearly with the reaction layer width.
Arc characteristics of laser-TIG double-side welding
Authors: Chen Y. B. , Miao Y. G. , Li L. Q. , Wu L.
Published: July 2008

Based on the experiments of laser-TIG double-side welding (LTDSW) for aluminium alloys, the influence of laser radiation on the arc behaviours of the opposite side was investigated. Generally, with the variation of laser power, there are three typical arc shapes: arc column convergence, arc root constriction and arc expansion. An important point to notice is that the laser keyhole preheating will induce the arc column convergence in the LTDSW. The arc voltage in the LTDSW is lower than that in TIG welding over the entire range of the experimental currents. Moreover, with increasing welding current, the difference in arc voltage between TIG welding and LTDSW is diminished because of the self-stabilisation of the arc burning at high currents. The complex transformation of arc behaviours has a great effect on the arc current density and its stability. The laser generated hot spot or laser induced plasma will have a higher temperature and greater electron density than neighbouring regions, and will offer the line of least resistance or the lowest potential drop. Hence, it is very reasonable that the arc voltage should descend under the influence of laser radiation, and the arc electrons should compress and root to the hot spot or plasma zone.
Influence of forge pressure on properties of friction welded pipelines using intermediate ring
Authors: Faes K. , Vermeirsch W. , De Baets P. , Denys R. , Van Der Donckt E.
Published: July 2008

An innovative welding method for fully automatic joining of pipelines has been developed. The proposed welding procedure is a variant of the conventional friction welding process. A rotating intermediate ring is used to generate heat necessary to realise the weld. The working principles of the welding process are described. The influence of the forge pressure on the mechanical properties of the welds and the heat affected zone microstructure was experimentally investigated. It was found that the forge pressure had no influence either on the mechanical properties or on the weld microstructure, which is in contradiction with the published data in literature concerning conventional friction welding.
Effects of stress relief coupled with reduced EBW energy on flow formed maraging steel weldment
Authors: Lee Y.-J. , Wu S.-C. , Chang J.-L. , Chou C.-P. , Lee I.-K.
Published: July 2008

A flow formed C-250 maraging steel tubing was welded by electron beam welded (EBW) process and subsequently age hardened. Conventional EB welding with high energy input had resulted in seriously inadequate percentage elongation of the weldment. With an additional prewelding stress relief treatment and EBW with a lower energy input, the elongation of the weldment showed significant improvement after being treated with age hardening. It was found that the tensile strength was increased by 12% and the percentage elongation was remarkably increased by 92%.
Experimental study on distortion of Al-6013 plate after friction stir welding
Authors: Shi Q.-Y. , Silvanus J. , Liu Y. , Yan D.-Y. , Li H.-K.
Published: July 2008

Friction stir welding (FSW) experiments with different panel dimensions and welding parameters have been designed to study the distortion of FSW. The FSW experiments were carried out with a load control facility to make the welding parameters reliable. The distortion of FSW is much smaller than that of arc welding, but it is still very significant. Three-dimensional distortion measuring system was applied to further study distortion trends. The results show that the distortion after FSW is in saddle shape, with convex bending in longitudinal direction and concave bending in transverse direction. This distortion pattern is in contrary with that of traditional arc welding. It is also found that increasing the panel length increases the longitudinal distortion but almost do not influence the transverse distortion. Increasing the rotation speed increases both longitudinal distortion and transverse distortion. The influence of welding speed on distortion is not very clear.
Friction and wear behaviours of MoS2/Zr coatings against hardened steel
Authors: Deng J. X. , Song W. L. , Zhang H. , Zhao J. L.
Published: July 2008

MoS2 and MoS2/Zr coatings were deposited on the surface of YT15 carbide by medium frequency magnetron sputtering together with multiarc ion plating. Microstructural and fundamental properties of these coatings were examined. Sliding wear tests against hardened steel using the ring block method were carried out with these coated materials. The friction coefficient and wear rates were measured. The wear surface features of the coatings were examined by SEM. Results showed that the MS-1 specimen (with MoS2/Zr composite coating) has the higher hardness and adhesion load for the coating to the substrate compared with that of the MS-2 specimen (only with MoS2 coating). The friction coefficient of MS-1 specimen was depended on the applied load, and was quite insensitive to the sliding speed. The MS-1 specimen exhibits improved friction behaviour to that of the MS-2 specimens, and the antiwear lifetime of the MoS2 coatings can be prolonged through adding Zr additives.
Dendritic cells mediate the induction of polyfunctional human IL17-producing cells (Th17-1 cells) enriched in the bone marrow of patients with myeloma
Authors: Dhodapkar Kavita M. , Barbuto Scott , Matthews Phillip , Kukreja Anjli , Mazumder Amitabha , Vesole David , Jagannath Sundar , Dhodapkar Madhav V.
Published: July 2008

IL17-producing (Th17) cells are a distinct lineage of T helper cells that regulate immunity and inflammation. The role of antigen-presenting cells in the induction of Th17 cells in humans remains to be fully defined. Here, we show that human dendritic cells (DCs) are efficient inducers of Th17 cells in culture, including antigen-specific Th17 cells. Although most freshly isolated circulating human Th17 cells secrete IL17 alone or with IL2, those induced by DCs are polyfunctional and coexpress IL17 and IFNγ (Th17-1 cells). The capacity of DCs to expand Th17-1 cells is enhanced upon DC maturation, and mature DCs are superior to monocytes for the expansion of autologous Th17 cells. In myeloma, where tumors are infiltrated by DCs, Th17 cells are enriched in the bone marrow relative to circulation. Bone marrow from patients with myeloma contains a higher proportion of Th17-1 cells compared with the marrow in preneoplastic gammopathy (monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance [MGUS]). Uptake of apoptotic but not necrotic myeloma tumor cells by DCs leads to enhanced induction of Th17-1 cells. These data demonstrate the capacity of DCs to induce expansion of polyfunctional IL17-producing T cells in humans, and suggest a role for DCs in the enrichment of Th17-1 cells in the tumor bed.
Hepatic microenvironment programs hematopoietic progenitor differentiation into regulatory dendritic cells, maintaining liver tolerance
Authors: Xia Sheng , Guo Zhenhong , Xu Xiongfei , Yi Hai , Wang Quanxing , Cao Xuetao
Published: July 2008

The liver has been generally considered an organ prone to tolerance induction and maintenance. However, whether and how the unique liver microenvironment contributes to tolerance maintenance is largely unknown. Here, we used liver fibroblastic stromal cells to mimic the liver microenvironment and found that liver stroma could induce Lin−CD117+ progenitors to differentiate into dendritic cells (DCs) with low CD11c, MHC II but high CD11b expression, high IL-10, but low IL-12 secretion. Such regulatory DCs could inhibit T-cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo, induce apoptosis of the activated T cells, and alleviate the damage of autoimmune hepatitis. Furthermore, liver stroma–derived macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF) was found to contribute to the generation of such regulatory DCs. Regulatory DC–derived PGE2 and T cell–derived IFN-gamma were responsible for the regulatory function. The natural counterpart of regulatory DCs was phenotypically and functionally identified in the liver. Importantly, Lin−CD117+ progenitors could be differentiated into regulatory DCs in the liver once transferred into the liver. Infusion with liver regulatory DCs alleviated experimental autoimmune hepatitis. Therefore, we demonstrate that the liver microenvironment is highly important to program progenitors to differentiate into regulatory DCs in situ, which contributes to the maintenance of liver tolerance.
Comparison of two humidification systems for long-term noninvasive mechanical ventilation
Authors: Nava S. , Cirio S. , Fanfulla F. , Carlucci A. , Navarra A. , Negri A. , Ceriana P.
Published: July 2008

There is no consensus concerning the best system of humidification during long-term noninvasive mechanical ventilation (NIMV).

In a technical pilot randomised crossover 12-month study, 16 patients with stable chronic hypercapnic respiratory failure received either heated humidification or heat and moisture exchanger. Compliance with long-term NIMV, airway symptoms, side-effects and number of severe acute pulmonary exacerbations requiring hospitalisation were recorded.

Two patients died. Intention-to-treat statistical analysis was performed on 14 patients. No significant differences were observed in compliance with long-term NIMV, but 10 out of 14 patients decided to continue long-term NIMV with heated humidification at the end of the trial. The incidence of side-effects, except for dry throat (significantly more often present using heat and moisture exchanger), hospitalisations and pneumonia were not significantly different.

In the present pilot study, the use heated humidification and heat and moisture exchanger showed similar tolerance and side-effects, but a higher number of patients decided to continue long-term noninvasive mechanical ventilation with heated humidification. Further larger studies are required in order to confirm these findings.
Pulmonary arterial hypertension masquerading as severe refractory asthma
Authors: Achouh L. , Montani D. , Garcia G. , Jaïs X. , Hamid A. M. , Mercier O. , Simonneau G. , Humbert M.
Published: July 2008

Once the diagnosis of pulmonary arterial hypertension is established, wheezing and chronic cough are rarely described during the course of the disease.

The present study reports on two nonsmoking patients with severe pulmonary arterial hypertension, confirmed by right-heart catheterisation, who developed chronic cough, wheezing and irreversible obstructive lung disease masquerading as adult-onset severe refractory asthma.

In both cases, extrinsic proximal airway obstruction by dilated pulmonary arteries was demonstrated by fibreoptic bronchoscopy and computed tomography of the chest.

The present observations add dilatation of the central pulmonary arteries with compression of the mainstem bronchi to the list of masqueraders of asthma in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension.
Airway hyperresponsiveness in asthma: lessons fromin vitromodel systems and animal models: Fig. 1—
Authors: Meurs H. , Gosens R. , Zaagsma J.
Published: July 2008

Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) is a hallmark clinical symptom of asthma. At least two components of AHR have been identified: 1) baseline AHR, which is persistent and presumably caused by airway remodelling due to chronic recurrent airway inflammation; and 2) acute and variable AHR, which is associated with an episodic increase in airway inflammation due to environmental factors such as allergen exposure.

Despite intensive research, the mechanisms underlying acute and chronic AHR are poorly understood. Owing to the complex variety of interactive processes that may be involved,in vitromodel systems and animal models are indispensable to the unravelling of these mechanisms at the cellular and molecular level.

The present paper focuses on a number of translational studies addressing the emerging central role of the airway smooth muscle cell, as a multicompetent cell involved in acute airway constriction as well as structural changes in the airways, in the pathophysiology of airway hyperresponsiveness.
Treating asthma means treating airway smooth muscle cells
Authors: Zuyderduyn S. , Sukkar M. B. , Fust A. , Dhaliwal S. , Burgess J. K.
Published: July 2008

Asthma is characterised by airway hyperresponsiveness, airway inflammation and airway remodelling. Airway smooth muscle cells are known to be the main effector cells of airway narrowing. In the present paper, studies will be discussed that have led to a novel view of the role of airway smooth muscle in the pathogenesis of asthma in which airway hyperresponsiveness, remodelling and inflammation are, at least in part, attributable to airway smooth muscle. Furthermore, how this new view may lead to a change in the phenotyping and treatment of patients with asthma will be discussed.
Corticosteroids in severe pneumonia: Table 1—
Authors: Sibila O. , Agustí C. , Torres A.
Published: July 2008

The mortality rate in severe community- or hospital-acquired pneumonia is very high, ranging 20–50%. Despite advances in antimicrobial therapy and supportive measures, this rate has not changed in recent years, suggesting that other factors are also responsible for the poor outcome. An abnormal increase in the local and systemic inflammatory response is associated with poor outcome, and this occurs despite adequate antibiotic therapy.

There is evidence that acute administration of corticosteroids decreases the inflammatory response and might decrease mortality in severe pneumonia. This has been shown in one small randomised controlled study, terminated prematurely due to 0% mortality in the intervention arm. In addition, an experimental study showed that glucocorticosteroids decrease lung inflammatory response and lung bacterial burden, confirming the results obtained throughin vitroinvestigations.

Although these results are promising and suggest a novel role of glucocorticosteroids in pneumonia, the inherent risks and potential side-effects of these drugs require further controlled clinical trials in order to better define the target population before their general use in clinical practice. Specifically, dosage, period of administration, titration, tapering and side-effects are some of the key questions that need to be investigated.
Biomarkers in pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Warwick G. , Thomas P. S. , Yates D. H.
Published: July 2008

There have been significant recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension, and a growing number of therapeutic agents have become available to the treating physician. Traditional methods of diagnosing and monitoring this condition have comprised echocardiography and right heart catheterisation, in addition to functional measures, such as estimation of functional class and the 6-min walk test. An increasing number of biomarkers have been described that are elevated in pulmonary hypertension and which may assist the clinician in diagnosis and in the assessment of disease severity and response to treatment.

The present article details the more important biomarkers, their potential applications and the evidence supporting their use.
The plant Apolipoprotein D ortholog protects Arabidopsis against oxidative stress
Authors: Charron Jean-Benoit F , Ouellet Francois , Houde Mario , Sarhan Fathey
Published: July 2008

Background

Lipocalins are a large and diverse family of small, mostly extracellular proteins implicated in many important functions. This family has been studied in bacteria, invertebrate and vertebrate animals but little is known about these proteins in plants. We recently reported the identification and molecular characterization of the first true lipocalins from plants, including the Apolipoprotein D ortholog AtTIL identified in the plant model Arabidopsis thaliana. This study aimed to determine its physiological role in planta.

Results

Our results demonstrate that the AtTIL lipocalin is involved in modulating tolerance to oxidative stress. AtTIL knock-out plants are very sensitive to sudden drops in temperature and paraquat treatment, and dark-grown plants die shortly after transfer to light. These plants accumulate a high level of hydrogen peroxide and other ROS, which causes an oxidative stress that is associated with a reduction in hypocotyl growth and sensitivity to light. Complementation of the knock-out plants with the AtTIL cDNA restores the normal phenotype. On the other hand, overexpression enhances tolerance to stress caused by freezing, paraquat and light. Moreover, this overexpression delays flowering and maintains leaf greenness. Microarray analyses identified several differentially-regulated genes encoding components of oxidative stress and energy balance.

Conclusion

This study provides the first functional evidence that a plant lipocalin is involved in modulating tolerance to oxidative stress. These findings are in agreement with recently published data showing that overexpression of ApoD enhances tolerance to oxidative stress and increases life span in mice and Drosophila. Together, the three papers strongly support a similar function of lipocalins in these evolutionary-distant species.
Study Protocol – Metabolic syndrome, vitamin D and bone status in South Asian women living in Auckland, New Zealand: A randomised, placebo-controlled, double-blind vitamin D intervention
Authors: von Hurst Pamela R , Stonehouse Welma , Matthys Christophe , Conlon Cathryn , Kruger Marlena C , Coad Jane
Published: July 2008

Background

The identification of the vitamin D receptor in the endocrine pancreas suggests a role for vitamin D in insulin secretion. There is also some limited evidence that vitamin D influences insulin resistance, and thus the early stages of the development of type 2 diabetes.

Methods

Eighty-four women of South Asian origin, living in Auckland, New Zealand, were randomised to receive either a supplement (4000IU 25(OH)D3per day) or a placebo for 6 months. At baseline, all participants were vitamin D deficient (serum 25(OH)D3<50 nmol/L), insulin resistant (HOMA-IR > 1.93) and/or hyperinsulinaemic, hyperglycemic or had clinical signs of dislipidaemia. Changes in HOMA-IR, lipids, parathyroid hormone, calcium and bone markers were monitored at 3 months and 6 months.

Discussion

This randomised, controlled trial will be the first to investigate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on insulin resistance in non-diabetic subjects. It will subsequently contribute to the growing body of evidence about the role of vitamin D in metabolic syndrome.Registered clinical.

Trial registration

Registered clinical trial – Registration No. ACTRN12607000642482
Weight loss and brown adipose tissue reduction in rat model of sleep apnea
Authors: Martinez Denis , Vasconcellos Luiz FT , de Oliveira Patricia G , Konrad Signorá P
Published: July 2008

Background -

Obesity is related to obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), but its roles in OSAHS as cause or consequence are not fully clarified. Isocapnic intermittent hypoxia (IIH) is a model of OSAHS. We verified the effect of IIH on body weight and brown adipose tissue (BAT) of Wistar rats.

Methods

Nine-month-old male breeders Wistar rats of two groups were studied: 8 rats submitted to IIH and 5 control rats submitted to sham IIH. The rats were weighed at the baseline and at the end of three weeks, after being placed in the IIH apparatus seven days per week, eight hours a day, in the lights on period, simulating an apnea index of 30/hour. After experimental period, the animals were weighed and measured as well as the BAT, abdominal, perirenal, and epididymal fat, the heart, and the gastrocnemius muscle.

Results

Body weight of the hypoxia group decreased 17 ± 7 grams, significantly different from the variation observed in the control group (p = 0,001). The BAT was 15% lighter in the hypoxia group and reached marginally the alpha error probability (p = 0.054).

Conclusion

Our preliminary results justify a larger study for a longer time in order to confirm the effect of isocapnic intermittent hypoxia on body weight and BAT.
Histamine-Induced Itch and its Relationship with Pain
Authors: Shim Won-Sik , Oh Uhtaek
Published: July 2008

Itch is one of the major complications of skin diseases. Although there are various substances that induce itch or pruritus, it is evident that histamine is the best known endogenous agent that evokes itch. Even though histamine-induced itch has been studied for some time, the underlying mechanism of itch is just beginning to emerge. Although various downstream signaling pathways of histamine receptors have been revealed, more studies are required to determine the cause of histamine-induced itch. It appears that itch and pain involve different neuronal pathways. Pain generally inhibits itch, which indicates an inter-communication between the two. Complex interactions between itch and pain may be expected based on reports on disease states and opioids. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanism and the pharmacological aspects of histamine-induced itch. Especially, the underlying mechanism of TRPV1 (an anti-pruritus target) has been determined to some extent.