bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Schoolwide Social-Behavioral Climate, Student Problem Behavior, and Related Administrative Decisions
Authors: Spaulding Scott A. , Irvin Larry K. , Horner Robert H. , May Seth L. , Emeldi Monica , Tobin Tary J. , Sugai George
Published: December 2008

Office discipline referral (ODR) data provide useful information about problem behavior and consequence patterns, social-behavioral climates, and effects of social-behavioral interventions in schools. The authors report patterns of ODRs and subsequent administrative decisions from 1,510 schools nationwide that used the School-Wide Information System in 2005—2006. Sample demographics differed from key demographics for schools nationwide on school enrollment, socioeconomic status, and race and ethnicity. Descriptive analyses showed over 88% of elementary grade students with zero or one ODR for the academic year, 72% for middle schools, and 67% for high schools. ODRs were most likely to be generated from classrooms and more likely to be related to peer-directed problem behavior in elementary schools, student-adult interactions in middle schools, and tardiness and skipping in high schools. Major consequences were suspensions and detentions for middle and high school students and varied for elementary students. The discussion focuses on the utility of ODR databases and implications of the reported patterns.
Illness as Metonym
Authors: Genosko Gary
Published: December 2008

The subcultural practices of urban explorers are studied through an analysis of the accomplishments of Canadian Jeff Chapman. Using his zine Infiltration as a resource, this essay considers his key sites of exploration, two active downtown Toronto hospitals, not only from the viewpoint of his experiences at both as a patient but also as ur-sites for exploration and an original rethinking of the city. Chapman's illness is metonymic, not metaphoric, and this informs his style of urban exploration. While situating Chapman's investigations in terms of driftworks, surrealist strolls, situationist perambulations, and De Certeau's counter-panoptic walks, the nontheoretical character of Chapman's ethico-aesthetic preoccupations is allowed to shine through in his homespun nonmastery of exploration and displays of personal courage as he rambled around closed hospital wings in his gown along with his intravenous pole.
Health Behavior Insights—The Transtheoretical/ Stages of Change Model: Carlo C. DiClemente, PhD
Authors: Werch Chudley E. , Ames Steven , Moore Michele J. , Thombs Dennis , Hart Andrea
Published: December 2008

Showcased in this article is an interview with Carlo C. DiClemente, PhD, an internationally renowned health behavior researcher and codeveloper of the Transtheoretical or Stages of Change Model. In this verbatim interview transcript, later edited by the authors and interviewee, Dr. DiClemente, he provides practical information and frank commentary on the steps to follow and pitfalls to avoid in developing, implementing, evaluating, and disseminating efficacious programs for affecting the health and well-being of individuals and populations. A concluding section summarizes key lessons learned from the professional experiences of Dr. DiClemente and discusses implications for advancing health behavior intervention practice and research.
Effect of deformation and Nb segregation on grain size bimodality in HSLA steel
Authors: Chakrabarti D. , Davis C. L. , Strangwood M.
Published: December 2008

Bimodal ferrite grain sizes (mixed coarse and fine grain bands) have been observed in Nb microalloyed thermomechanically controlled rolled (TMCR) steel plates and are undesirable as they can reduce toughness. This paper examines the role of rolling deformation on the formation of bimodal grain structures in reheated continuously cast slab material with initial uniform or bimodal austenitic grain structures. The slab material contains solute rich and solute poor regions, due to interdendritic segregation, which have been shown to cause bimodal austenite grain structures during reheating within a certain temperature range. It is known that deformation in the partial recrystallisation region can result in a mixed coarse and fine grained structure. Theoretical calculations (based on the Dutta–Sellars model) and deformation experiments indicated that the segregated microalloying elements (particularly Nb) can promote bimodality during deformation by affecting the local recrystallisation kinetics over a much wider range of temperatures than for a homogeneous material.
Influence of beam polarisation in laser bending process
Authors: Liu J. , Sun S. , Guan Y.
Published: December 2008

In this paper, the influence of beam polarisation in the laser bending process was experimentally studied. Based on the laser beam polarisation, the laser absorption of the metallic specimen could be enhanced by increasing the incident angle. The bending angles are achieved in stainless foil specimens without absorptive coatings, and larger bending angles can be produced by single laser scanning with higher incident angles. Multipass laser bending experiments were also carried out on the same material with graphite coatings. The results show that the bending angle per pass is affected obviously by the beam polarisation at lower laser line energy; and the bending angle per pass increases significantly when the total bending angle is large enough. When using polarised light, the laser beam distortion and laser absorption change induced by the variation of the absorptive coatings and laser incident angle are the two main factors that affect the coupled laser energy. The bending rule is the synthesis effect of the two factors.
Reversing the tuberculosis upwards trend: a success story in Romania
Authors: Marica C. , Didilescu C. , Galie N. , Chiotan D. , Zellweger J. P. , Sotgiu G. , D'Ambrosio L. , Centis R. , Ditiu L. , Migliori G. B.
Published: December 2008

At present, no published evidence is available on the effectiveness of the DOTS (directly observed treatment, short-course) strategy in reducing the incidence of tuberculosis (TB) within a country in the European “hot spots”. The present study aimed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the strategy implementation in reversing the epidemiological TB trend in Romania based on programmatic data analysis.

Key programme indicators were analysed from 1998 to 2007, and included DOTS coverage, case-detection rate, treatment success and overall incidence of notified cases. Internationally agreed definitions were used.

The key programme indicators began declining and the World Health Assembly targets were reached (79% case-detection of new sputum-smear positive cases and 85.5% success rate in new culture-positive TB cases), 7 yrs after initiation of the DOTS expansion.

The success story in Romania suggests that other middle-income, high-incidence countries (i.e.those belonging to the former Soviet Union) might be able to reach the World Health Assembly Targets and curb the burden of tuberculosis.
WSSV ie1 promoter is more efficient than CMV promoter to express H5 hemagglutinin from influenza virus in baculovirus as a chicken vaccine
Authors: He Fang , Ho YuenFern , Yu Li , Kwang Jimmy
Published: December 2008

Background

The worldwide outbreak of influenza A (H5N1) viruses among poultry species and humans highlighted the need to develop efficacious and safe vaccines based on efficient and scaleable production.

Results

White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) immediate-early promoter one (ie1) was shown to be a stronger promoter for gene expression in insect cells compared with Cytomegalovirus immediate-early (CMV) promoter in luciferase assays. In an attempt to improve expression efficiency, a recombinant baculovirus was constructed expressing hemagglutinin (HA) of H5N1 influenza virus under the control of WSSV ie1 promoter. HA expression in SF9 cells increased significantly with baculovirus under WSSV ie1 promoter, compared with CMV promoter based on HA contents and hemagglutination activity. Further, immunization with baculovirus under WSSV ie1 promoter in chickens elicited higher level anti-HA antibodies compared to CMV promoter, as indicated in hemagglutination inhibition, virus neutralization and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. By immunohistochemistry, strong HA antigen expression was observed in different chicken organs with vaccination of WSSV ie1 promoter controlled baculovirus, confirming higher efficiency in HA expression by WSSV ie1 promoter.

Conclusion

The production of H5 HA by baculovirus was enhanced with WSSV ie1 promoter, especially compared with CMV promoter. This contributed to effective elicitation of HA-specific antibody in vaccinated chickens. This study provides an alternative choice for baculovirus based vaccine production.
Diagnosis of foot-and mouth disease by real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction under field conditions in Brazil
Authors: Paixão Tatiane A , Neta Alcina V Carvalho , Paiva Naimes O , Reis Jorge R , Barbosa Meirivan S , Serra Claudia V , Silva René R , Beckham Tammy R , Martin Barbara M , Clarke Neville P , Adams L Garry , Santos Renato L
Published: December 2008

Background

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is an economically important and highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed domestic and wild animals. Virus isolation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) are the gold standard tests for diagnosis of FMD. As these methods are time consuming, assays based on viral nucleic acid amplification have been developed.

Results

A previously described real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay with high sensitivity and specificity under laboratorial and experimental conditions was used in the current study. To verify the applicability of this assay under field conditions in Brazil, 460 oral swabs from cattle were collected in areas free of FMD (n = 200) and from areas with outbreaks of FMD (n = 260). Three samples from areas with outbreaks of FMD were positive by real-time RT-PCR, and 2 of those samples were positive by virus isolation and ELISA. Four other samples were considered inconclusive by real-time RT-PCR (threshold cycle [Ct] > 40); whereas all 200 samples from an area free of FMD were real-time RT-PCR negative.

Conclusion

real-time RT-PCR is a powerful technique for reliable detection of FMDV in a fraction of the time required for virus isolation and ELISA. However, it is noteworthy that lack of infrastructure in certain areas with high risk of FMD may be a limiting factor for using real-time RT-PCR as a routine diagnostic tool.
Laparoscopic-assisted small bowel resection for treatment of adult small bowel intussusception: a case report
Authors: Stewart Donald , Hughes Michael , Hope William W
Published: December 2008

Background

Intussuception is a rare cause of intestinal obstruction in adults. Diagnosis is often difficult due to the variable and sometimes episodic nature of symptoms. Surgery is the recommended treatment option in adults if the diagnosis is proven.

Case presentation

We present a case of a 33 year old Caucasian female admitted with a small bowel obstruction and no history of previous abdominal surgery. Patient did not improve with medical management consisting of bowel rest and nasogastric tube decompression. Surgery was consulted and patient was taken to the operating room for a laparoscopic-assisted small bowel resection for a small bowel intussusception caused by a submucosal fibroma.

Conclusion

Our case highlights the feasibility and potential benefits of laparoscopy in assisting the diagnosis and treatment of small bowel obstructions.
Malignant melanoma associated with a blue naevus: a case report
Authors: Mellone Pasquale , Bianchi Alexander , Dragonetti Emanuele , Murace Raffaele , Persichetti Paolo , Baldi Alfonso
Published: December 2008

Introduction

Combined malignant naevi are characterised pathologically by the association of a melanoma with one or more different types of benign melanocytic naevi in a single lesion.

Case Presentation

We show here a case of malignant combined naevus made up of a blue naevus and a melanoma, presenting as a slowly progressing and asymptomatic pigmented lesion on the trunk of a 35-year-old man. Dermoscopic examination was not conclusive for a malignant lesion, showing only an atypical brown pigment network. The definitive diagnosis was reached only at the hystopathological examination.

Conclusion

This finding suggests that combined naevi should be always excised and histologically examined to achieve a correct diagnosis and avoid risk of misclassification.
Influence ofSlc11a1(formerlyNramp1) on DSS-induced colitis in mice
Authors: Jiang Hui-Rong , Gilchrist Derek S , Popoff Jean-Francois , Jamieson Sarra E , Truscott Martha , White Jacqueline K , Blackwell Jenefer M
Published: December 2008

Multiple genetic studies in humans indicate a role for solute carrier family 11a member 1 [SLC11A1; formerly natural resistance-associated macrophage protein 1 (NRAMP1)] in autoimmune disease susceptibility, including ulcerative colitis. Murine Slc11a1 has many pleiotropic effects on macrophage activation and proinflammatory responses. To determine which of these are important in ulcerative colitis, we established a phenotype for oral dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis in congenic Slc11a1 wild-type (wt) and mutant (mt) mice on a B10 background. For over 7 days of treatment with 2% DSS in the drinking water, Slc11a1 wt mice showed enhanced acute ulcerative colitis, as demonstrated by significantly greater body weight loss and reduction in colon length, as well as a marked increase in monocyte/macrophage inflammatory infiltrates and histopathology changes in the colon. This was accompanied by a clear, inverse relationship between IFN-γ and IL-10 responses in Slc11a1 wt compared with mt mice, resulting in a significantly higher ratio of IFN-γ:IL-10 in wt compared with mt mice in lymph node and splenic T cells. RNase protection assays confirmed the presence of significantly higher IFN-γ at the RNA level in the colons of wt compared with mt mice at Day 7 of treatment. Interestingly this was accompanied by significantly enhanced RNA levels for the acute-phase protein IL-6, which is known to inhibit the generation of forkhead box P3+ regulatory T cells and help to drive the differentiation of Th17 from naive T cells and not by differences in RNA for IL-12p35 or IL-12p40 molecules that dimerize to form the Th1-inducing cytokine IL-12.
Fast 2D inversion of large borehole EM induction data sets with an efficient Fréchet-derivative approximation
Authors: Wang Gong Li , Torres-Verdín Carlos , Salazar Jesús M. , Voss Benjamin
Published: January 2009

In addition to reliability and stability, the efficiency and expediency of inversion methods have long been a strong concern for their routine applications by well-log interpreters. We have developed and successfully validated a new inversion method to estimate 2D parametric spatial distributions of electrical resistivity from array-induction measurements acquired in a vertical well. The central component of the method is an efficient approximation to Fréchet derivatives where both the incident and adjoint fields are precomputed and kept unchanged during inversion. To further enhance the overall efficiency of the inversion, we combined the new approximation with both the improved numerical mode-matching method and domain decomposition. Examples of application with synthetic data sets show that the new methodis computer efficient and capable of retrieving original model re-sistivities even in the presence of noise, performing equally well in both high and low contrasts of formation resistivity. In thin resistive beds, the new inversion method estimates more accurate resistivities than standard commercial deconvolution software. We also considered examples of application with field data sets that confirm the new method can successfully process a large data set that includes 200 beds in approximately [Formula: see text] of CPU time on a desktop computer. In addition to 2D parametric spatial distributions of electrical resistivity, the new inversion method provides a qualitative indicator of the uncertainty of estimated parameters based on the estimator’s covariance matrix. The uncertainty estimator provides a qualitative measure of the nonuniqueness of estimated resistivity parameters when the data misfit lies within the measurement error (noise).
Self-harm in adolescents: self-report survey in schools in Scotland
Authors: O'Connor Rory C. , Rasmussen Susan , Miles Jeremy , Hawton Keith
Published: December 2008

Background

The suicide rate in Scotland is twice as high as that in England. However, the prevalence of self-harm is unknown.

Aims

To determine the prevalence of self-harm in adolescents in Scotland and the factors associated with it.

Method

A total of 2008 pupils aged 15–16 years completed an anonymous lifestyle and coping survey. Information was obtained on demographic characteristics, lifestyle, life events and problems, social influences, psychological variables and self-harm.

Results

Self-harm was reported by 13.8% of the respondents. The majority (71%) of those who had self-harmed had done so in the past 12 months and girls were approximately 3.4 times more likely to report self-harm than boys. In multivariate analyses, smoking, bullying, worries about sexual orientation, self-harm by family and anxiety were associated with self-harm in both genders. In addition, drug use, physical abuse, serious boy/girlfriend problems, self-harm by friends and low levels of optimism were also associated with self-harm in girls.

Conclusions

Despite markedly different national suicide rates, the prevalence of self-harm in Scotland is similar to that in England with girls at least three times more likely to report self-harm than boys. The findings suggest a role for emotional literacy programmes in schools and highlight the importance of promoting positive mental health among adolescents.
Patients' views and readmissions 1 year after involuntary hospitalisation
Authors: Priebe Stefan , Katsakou Christina , Amos Tim , Leese Morven , Morriss Richard , Rose Diana , Wykes Til , Yeeles Ksenija
Published: December 2008

Background

Little is known about the long-term outcome of involuntary admissions to psychiatric hospitals.

Aims

To assess involuntary readmissions and patients' retrospective views of the justification of the admission as 1-year outcomes and to identify factors associated with these outcomes.

Method

Socio-demographic data and readmissions were collected for 1570 involuntarily admitted patients. Within the first week after admission 50% were interviewed, and of these 51% were re-interviewed after 1 year.

Results

At 1 year, 15% of patients had been readmitted involuntarily, and 40% considered their original admission justified. Lower initial treatment satisfaction, being on benefits, living with others and being of African and/or Caribbean origin were associated with higher involuntary readmission rates. Higher initial treatment satisfaction, poorer initial global functioning and living alone were linked with more positive retrospective views of the admission.

Conclusions

Patients' views of treatment within the first week are a relevant indicator for the long-term prognosis of involuntarily admitted patients.
Nocturnal Activation of Aurora C in Rat Pineal Gland: Its Role in the Norepinephrine-Induced Phosphorylation of Histone H3 and Gene Expression
Authors: Price D. M. , Kanyo R. , Steinberg N. , Chik C. L. , Ho A. K.
Published: December 2008

We have shown previously that Ser10 phosphorylation of histone H3 occurs in rat pinealocytes after stimulation with norepinephrine (NE) and that histone modifications such as acetylation appear to play an important role in pineal gene transcription. Here we report the nocturnal phosphorylation of a Ser10 histone H3 kinase, Aurora C, in the rat pineal gland. The time profile of this phosphorylation parallels the increase in the level of phospho-Ser10 histone H3. Studies with cultured pinealocytes indicate that Aurora C phosphorylation is induced by NE and this induction can be blocked by cotreatment with propranolol or KT5720, a protein kinase A inhibitor. Moreover, only treatment with dibutyryl cAMP, but not other kinase activators, mimics the effect of NE on Aurora C phosphorylation. These results indicate that Aurora C is phosphorylated primarily by a β-adrenergic/protein kinase A-mediated mechanism. Treatment with an Aurora C inhibitor reduces the NE-induced histone H3 phosphorylation and suppresses the NE-stimulated induction of arylalkylamine N-acetyltransferase (AA-NAT), the rhythm-controlling enzyme of melatonin synthesis, and melatonin production. The effects of Aurora C inhibitors on adrenergic-induced genes in rat pinealocytes are gene specific: inhibitory for Aa-nat and inducible cAMP repressor but stimulatory for c-fos. Together our results support a role for the NE-stimulated phosphorylation of Aurora C and the subsequent remodeling of chromatin in NE-stimulated Aa-nat transcription. This phenomenon suggests that activation of this mitotic kinase can be induced by extracellular signals to participate in the transcriptional induction of a subset of genes in the rat pineal gland.
3-Iodothyronamine (T1AM): A New Player on the Thyroid Endocrine Team?
Authors: Scanlan Thomas S.
Published: December 2008

3-Iodothyronamine (T1AM) is an endogenous compound with chemical features that are similar to thyroid hormone. T1AM has a carbon skeleton identical to that of T4 and contains a single carbon-iodine bond. Theoretically, T1AM could be produced from T4 by enzymatic decarboxylation and deiodination. Recent studies show that T1AM and higher iodinated thyronamines are subject to similar metabolic processing as iodothyronines such as T4, suggesting a biological linkage between iodothyronines and iodothyronamines. In addition, single doses of T1AM administered to rodents induce a hypometabolic state that in certain ways resembles hibernation and is opposite to the effects of excess T4. This review will discuss the latest developments on this recently discovered thyroid hormone derivative.

3-Iodothyronamine is a biologically active, endogenous derivative of thyroid hormone that may represent a new arm of the thyroid endocrine system.
Integrins in cell migration – the actin connection
Authors: Vicente-Manzanares Miguel , Choi Colin Kiwon , Horwitz Alan Rick
Published: December 2008

The connection between integrins and actin is driving the field of cell migration in new directions. Integrins and actin are coupled through a physical linkage, which provides traction for migration. Recent studies show the importance of this linkage in regulating adhesion organization and development. Actin polymerization orchestrates adhesion assembly near the leading edge of a migrating cell, and the dynamic cross-linking of actin filaments promotes adhesion maturation. Breaking the linkage between actin and integrins leads to adhesion disassembly. Recent quantitative studies have revealed points of slippage in the linkage between actin and integrins, showing that it is not always efficient. Regulation of the assembly and organization of adhesions and their linkage to actin relies on signaling pathways that converge on components that control actin polymerization and organization.
Integrins in immunity
Authors: Evans Rachel , Patzak Irene , Svensson Lena , De Filippo Katia , Jones Kristian , McDowall Alison , Hogg Nancy
Published: December 2008

A successful immune response depends on the capacity of immune cells to travel from one location in the body to another–these cells are rapid migrators, travelling at speeds of μm/minute. Their ability to penetrate into tissues and to make contacts with other cells depends chiefly on the β2 integrin known as LFA-1. For this reason, we describe the control of its activity in some detail. For the non-immunologist, the fine details of an immune response often seem difficult to fathom. However, the behaviour of immune cells, known as leukocytes (Box 1), is subject to the same biological rules as many other cell types, and this holds true particularly for the functioning of the integrins on these cells. In this Commentary, we highlight, from a cell-biology point of view, the integrin-mediated immune-cell migration and cell-cell interactions that occur during the course of an immune response.
Integrin α3β1 inhibits directional migration and wound re-epithelialization in the skin
Authors: Margadant Coert , Raymond Karine , Kreft Maaike , Sachs Norman , Janssen Hans , Sonnenberg Arnoud
Published: December 2008

Re-epithelialization after skin wounding requires both migration and hyperproliferation of keratinocytes. Laminin-332 is deposited during migration over the provisional matrix. To investigate the function of the laminin-332 binding integrin α3β1 in wound re-epithelialization, we generated Itga3flox/flox; K14-Cre mice lacking the α3 subunit specifically in the basal layer of the epidermis. These mice are viable but display several skin defects, including local inflammation, hair loss, basement membrane duplication and microblistering at the dermal-epidermal junction, whereas hemidesmosome assembly and keratinocyte differentiation are not impaired. Wound healing is slightly faster in the absence of integrin α3β1, whereas proliferation, the distribution of other integrins and the deposition of basement membrane proteins in the wound bed are unaltered. In vitro, cell spreading is rescued by increased surface expression of α6β1 integrin in the absence of integrin α3. The α3-deficient keratinocytes migrate with an increased velocity and persistence, whereas proliferation, growth factor signaling, hemidesmosome assembly, and laminin-332 deposition appeared to be normal. We suggest that integrin α3β1 delays keratinocyte migration during wound re-epithelialization, by binding to the laminin-332 that is newly deposited on the wound bed.
Integrins in mammary-stem-cell biology and breast-cancer progression – a role in cancer stem cells?
Authors: Pontier Stephanie M. , Muller William J.
Published: December 2008

Cancer cells with stem cell-like properties (cancer stem cells) are believed to drive cancer and are associated with poor prognosis. Data from mouse models have demonstrated that integrins, the major cellular receptors for extracellular-matrix components, have essential roles both during cancer initiation and progression, and during cell differentiation in normal development. By presenting an overview of the role of integrins in stem-cell biology and in cancer progression, this Commentary aims to present evidence for a role of integrins in the biology of cancer stem cells. Given the recent interest in the role of integrins in breast-cancer initiation and progression, we focus on the role of the members of the integrin family and their coupled signaling pathways in mammary-gland development and tumorigenesis.
The mechanical integrin cycle
Authors: Puklin-Faucher Eileen , Sheetz Michael P.
Published: December 2008

Cells govern tissue shape by exerting highly regulated forces at sites of matrix adhesion. As the major force-bearing adhesion-receptor protein, integrins have a central role in how cells sense and respond to the mechanics of their surroundings. Recent studies have shown that a key aspect of mechanotransduction is the cycle by which integrins bind to the matrix at the leading cell edge, attach to the cytoskeleton, transduce mechanical force, aggregate in the plasma membrane as part of increasingly strengthened adhesion complexes, unbind and, ultimately, are recycled. This mechanical cycle enables the transition from early complexes to larger, more stable adhesions that can then rapidly release. Within this mechanical cycle, integrins themselves exhibit intramolecular conformational change that regulates their binding affinity and may also be dependent upon force. How the cell integrates these dynamic elements into a rigidity response is not clear. Here, we focus on the steps in the integrin mechanical cycle that are sensitive to force and closely linked to integrin function, such as the lateral alignment of integrin aggregates and related adhesion components.
Risk of Fractures with Selective Serotonin-Reuptake Inhibitors or Tricyclic Antidepressants
Authors: Ginzburg Regina , Rosero Enma
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the literature associating the risk of fracture during antidepressant therapy.

DATA SOURCES

Literature was identified via MEDLINE (1970–August 2008) using the search terms selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, antidepressants, and fracture. Reference citations from publications identified were also reviewed. All articles in English identified from the data sources were evaluated.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are generally prescribed over other classes of antidepressants because they are considered to be relatively safer. Recent evidence, however, suggests that SSRIs may be associated with an increased risk of fractures. Thirteen clinical studies were identified in the literature search (7 case controls, 5 prospective cohorts, 1 cross-sectional). Most studies compared SSRIs with tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and found similar or greater risk of fracture associated with use of an SSRI. This risk appeared to be highest at the beginning of therapy with TCAs and eventually diminished. SSRI risk tended to increase slightly over time. No risk was seen with other classes of antidepressants. However, the number of patients using antidepressants was low.

CONCLUsIONs

There may be a possible correlation with SSRI or TCA use and risk of fracture. Prospective, randomized controlled trials with sufficient patient samples are needed to verify this finding.
Picomolar Amyloid-β Positively Modulates Synaptic Plasticity and Memory in Hippocampus
Authors: Puzzo Daniela , Privitera Lucia , Leznik Elena , Fà Mauro , Staniszewski Agnieszka , Palmeri Agostino , Arancio Ottavio
Published: December 2008

Amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides are produced in high amounts during Alzheimer's disease, causing synaptic and memory dysfunction. However, they are also released in lower amounts in normal brains throughout life during synaptic activity. Here we show that low picomolar concentrations of a preparation containing both Aβ42monomers and oligomers cause a marked increase of hippocampal long-term potentiation, whereas high nanomolar concentrations lead to the well established reduction of potentiation. Picomolar levels of Aβ42also produce a pronounced enhancement of both reference and contextual fear memory. The mechanism of action of picomolar Aβ42on both synaptic plasticity and memory involves α7-containing nicotinic acetylcholine receptors. These findings strongly support a model for Aβ effects in which low concentrations play a novel positive, modulatory role on neurotransmission and memory, whereas high concentrations play the well known detrimental effect culminating in dementia.
RTP801 Is Induced in Parkinson's Disease and Mediates Neuron Death by Inhibiting Akt Phosphorylation/Activation
Authors: Malagelada Cristina , Jin Zong Hao , Greene Lloyd A.
Published: December 2008

Previously, we reported that RTP801, a stress regulated protein, is induced in multiple cellular models of Parkinson's disease (PD), in an animal model of PD and in dopaminergic neurons of PD patients. In cellular PD models, RTP801 is both sufficient and necessary for death. We further showed that RTP801 and PD mimetics such as 6-OHDA trigger neuron death by suppressing activation of the key kinase mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). Here, we report that as a consequence of mTOR signaling blockade, 6-OHDA suppresses the phosphorylation and activation of Akt, a major supporter of neuron survival. This effect is mediated by RTP801 and appears to underlie neuron death induced by 6-OHDA. Examination of postmortem dopaminergic neurons reveals a consistent depletion of phospho-Akt, but not of total Akt in PD patients. These observations support a sequential mechanism in which PD-associated stresses induce RTP801, suppress mTOR signaling, deplete phosphorylated/activated Akt and permit neuron degeneration and death.
Synaptic Vesicles in Mature Calyx of Held Synapses Sense Higher Nanodomain Calcium Concentrations during Action Potential-Evoked Glutamate Release
Authors: Wang Lu-Yang , Neher Erwin , Taschenberger Holger
Published: December 2008

During development of the calyx of Held synapse, presynaptic action potentials (APs) become substantially faster and briefer. Nevertheless, this synapse is able to upregulate quantal output triggered by arriving APs. Briefer APs lead to less effective gating of voltage-gated Ca2+channels (VGCCs). Therefore, mechanisms downstream of Ca2+entry must effectively compensate for the attenuated Ca2+influx associated with shorter APs in more mature calyces. This compensation could be achieved by tighter spatial coupling between VGCCs and synaptic vesicles, so that the latter are exposed to higher intracellular Ca2+concentration ([Ca2+]i). Alternatively or additionally, the Ca2+sensitivity of the release apparatus may increase during synapse development. To differentiate between these possibilities, we combined paired patch-clamp recordings with Ca2+imaging and flash photolysis of caged Ca2+and estimated the [Ca2+]irequirements for vesicle release in the developing mouse calyx of Held synapse. Surprisingly, the dose–response relationship between [Ca2+]iand release rate was shifted slightly to the right in more mature calyces, rendering their vesicles slightly less sensitive to incoming Ca2+. Taking into account the time course and peak rates of AP-evoked release transients for the corresponding developmental stages, we estimate the local [Ca2+]i“seen” by the Ca2+sensors on synaptic vesicles to increase from 35 to 56 μm[from postnatal day 9 (P9)–P11 to P16–P19]. Our results reinforce the idea that developmental tightening of the spatial coupling between VGCCs and synaptic vesicles plays a predominant role in enhancing quantal output at this synapse and possibly other central synapses.
Loss-of-Function Analysis Suggests ThatOmi/HtrA2Is Not an Essential Component of thepink1/parkinPathwayIn Vivo
Authors: Yun Jina , Cao Joseph H. , Dodson Mark W. , Clark Ira E. , Kapahi Pankaj , Chowdhury Ruhena B. , Guo Ming
Published: December 2008

Recently, a mutation in the mitochondrial protease Omi/HtrA2, G399S, was found in sporadic Parkinson's disease (PD) patients, leading to the designation ofOmi/HtrA2as PD locus 13 (PARK13). G399S reportedly results in reduced Omi protease activity.In vitrostudies have suggested thatOmi/HtrA2acts downstream ofPINK1, mutations in which mediate recessive forms of PD. We, as well as other, have previously shown that theDrosophilahomologs of the familial PD genes,PINK1(PARK6) andPARKIN(PARK2), function in a common genetic pathway to regulate mitochondrial integrity and dynamics. WhetherOmi/HtrA2regulates mitochondrial integrity and whether it acts downstream ofPINK1 in vivoremain to be explored. Here, we show thatOmi/HtrA2null mutants inDrosophila, in contrast topink1orparkinnull mutants, do not show mitochondrial morphological defects. Extensive genetic interaction studies do not provide support for models in whichOmi/HtrA2functions in the same genetic pathway aspink1, or carries out partially redundant functions withpink1, at least with respect to regulation of mitochondrial integrity and dynamics. Furthermore, Omi/HtrA2 G399S retains significant, if not full, function of Omi/HtrA2, compared with expression of protease-compromised versions of the protein. In light of recent findings showing that G399S can be found at comparable frequencies in PD patients and healthy controls, we do not favor a hypothesis in whichOmi/HtrA2plays an essential role in PD pathogenesis, at least with respect to regulation of mitochondrial integrity in thepink1/parkinpathway.
Herbicide Resistance in Rigid Ryegrass (Lolium rigidum)Has Not Led to Higher Weed Densities in Western Australian Cropping Fields
Authors: Llewellyn Rick S. , D'Emden Francis H. , Owen Mechelle J. , Powles Stephen B.
Published: January 2009

The aim of this study was to test whether herbicide resistance in rigid ryegrass has led to increased densities of this weed in Western Australian (WA) cropping fields. A total of 503 wheat fields with previously unknown management history and weed status were visited prior to harvest across 15 agronomic areas of the central WA cropping belt in 1998 and 2003. Rigid ryegrass density was visually assessed and, where possible, seed was collected from the population. Ryegrass was found in 91% of the wheat crops sampled. Ryegrass populations were tested in the following year for resistance to chlorsulfuron, sulfometuron, diclofop, and clethodim. With the use of nonparametric and regression statistical methods, resistance status, including multiple-resistance status, was not found to be associated with higher weed density. The results show that growers are generally maintaining low densities in fields with herbicide-resistant rigid ryegrass. The most common rigid ryegrass density at harvest time was less than 1 plant m−2in both resistant and susceptible populations. Field and model-based studies of weed and herbicide resistance management that allow populations to continue at very high densities are unlikely to reflect common grower practice.
Effect of Cytoskeletal Disruption on Mechanotransduction of Hydrostatic Pressure by C3H10T1/2 Murine Fibroblasts
Authors: Shim Joon W , Wise Dwayne A , Elder Steven H
Published: January 2009

Cyclic hydrostatic pressure of physiological magnitude (< 10 MPa) stimulates chondrogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells, but mechanotransduction mechanisms are not well understood. It was hypothesized that an intact cytoskeleton would be required for uninhibited mechanotransduction of hydrostatic pressure. Therefore we examined the effects of drugs which selectively interfere with actin and tubulin polymerization on pressure-induced upregulation of aggrecan and col2a1 (type II collagen) mRNA expression. C3H10T1/2 cells were cultured as pellets in either 4µM cytochalasin D or 4µM nocodazole and subjected to 3 days of cyclic hydrostatic compression (1 Hz, 5 MPa, 2 h per day). Phalloidin staining and indirect immunostaining with anti α-tubulin antibody confirmed disruption of microfilament and microtubule assemblies, respectively. Real time RT-PCR revealed that both drugs substantially lowered the basal level of aggrecan and col2a1 mRNA, but that neither drug prevented a pressure-stimulated increase in gene expression relative to the altered basal state. Thus upregulation of macromolecular gene expression by cyclic hydrostatic pressure did not require a completely intact cytoskeleton.
Movements of Juvenile Common Ravens in an Arid Landscape
Authors: WEBB WILLIAM C. , BOARMAN WILLIAM I. , ROTENBERRY JOHN T.
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT  Movement patterns of juvenile birds are poorly understood, yet critically important ecological phenomena, especially for species with a prolonged juvenile period. We evaluated postfledging movements of juvenile common ravens (Corvus corax) in a western Mojave Desert landscape composed of a mosaic of natural and anthropogenic elements. Generally, ravens do not begin breeding until after their fourth year. We marked 2 annual cohorts of juvenile ravens and followed them from dispersal from their natal territory for up to 33 months. Movements of juvenile common ravens were similar for males and females. Conspecifics and confined livestock feeding operations represented important resources for juvenile ravens, and juveniles were rarely located in open desert. However, initial movements from the natal territory to the nearest communal point subsidy rather than the closest anthropogenic resource suggested juvenile dispersal was influenced by the combination of conspecifics and anthropogenic resources, rather than the distribution of those resources. Land managers concerned with growing raven populations should reduce access to concentrated anthropogenic resources such as landfills and dairies, which serve as important resources for juveniles. Because juvenile ravens rarely venture into open desert, reducing their numbers by lethal removal or other means is unlikely to lessen raven predation of desert tortoises (Gopherus agassizii).
Impact of Livestock Husbandry on Small‐ and Medium‐Sized Carnivores in Kalahari Savannah Rangelands
Authors: BLAUM NIELS , TIETJEN BRITTA , ROSSMANITH EVA
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT  We analyzed relative sensitivities of small‐ and medium‐sized carnivores to livestock husbandry (stocking rates and predator control) in Kalahari, South Africa, rangelands at a regional scale. We monitored small carnivores using track counts on 22 Kalahari farms across a land‐use gradient ranging from low to high stocking rates and also interviewed each farm manager to identify farmers' perception of small carnivores as potential predators for livestock. We recorded 12 species of small‐ and medium‐sized carnivores across 22 Kalahari farms. Stocking rate was the most important driving variable for local carnivore abundance. Abundance of all species was lowest on farms where stocking rate was high. Most farm managers perceived medium‐sized carnivores, in particular, African wildcat (Felis silvestris lybica), black‐backed jackal (Canis mesomelas), and caracal (Caracal caracal), as potential predators of livestock. Multiple regression analysis shows that black‐backed jackal, African wildcat, and caracal were negatively affected by predator control measures, whereas bat‐eared fox (Otocyon megalotis), cape fox (Vulpes chama), and small‐spotted genet (Genetta genetta) were positively affected. Our results show a need for expanding research and conservation activities toward small‐ and medium‐sized carnivores in southern African savannah rangelands. We, therefore, suggest developing a monitoring program combining passive tracking with indigenous knowledge of local Khoisan Bushmen to monitor carnivore populations, and we recommend additional predator removal experiments that manipulate predator densities.
Maned Wolf Density in a Central Brazilian Grassland Reserve
Authors: SILVEIRA LEANDRO , FURTADO MARIANA MALZONI , TÔRRES NATÁLIA MUMDIM , SOLLMANN RAHEL , UHL GABRIELE , JÁCOMO ANAH TEREZA DE ALMEIDA
Published: January 2009

ABSTRACT  The maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) inhabits the savannah‐like Cerrado of Brazil. Although 80% of this biome has already been affected by human activity, little is known about maned wolf abundance. Using mark—recapture models, we obtained the first density estimate from central Brazil, the core of maned wolf distribution. With 5.19 individuals/100 km2, even large reserves support only small maned wolf populations. Therefore, long‐term conservation of the maned wolf depends on land management outside of reserves.
Judges' Cognition and Market Order
Authors: Arruñada Benito , Andonova Veneta
Published: December 2008

We argue that during the crystallization of common and civil law in the 19th century, the degree of discretion in judicial rulemaking, albeit influenced by the comparative advantages of both legislative and judicial rulemaking, was mainly determined by the anti-market biases of the judiciary. The different degrees of judicial discretion in both legal traditions were thus adapted to different circumstances, mainly the unique, market-friendly, evolutionary transition enjoyed by English common law as opposed to the revolutionary environment of the civil law. On the Continent, constraining judicial discretion was essential for enforcing freedom of contract and establishing a market economy. The long-term confluence of both branches of the Western legal system towards lesser freedom of contract is explained as a consequence of increased perceptions of exogenous risks and changes in the political system. These favored the adoption of sharing solutions that interfered with market-supporting institutions and removed the cognitive advantage of parliaments and political leaders.
Twenty-Third Annual Conference of the European Association of Law & Economics, Madrid, Spain
Authors: Garoupa Nuno , Schäfer Hans-Bernd
Published: December 2008

The 23rd Annual Conference of the European Association of Law and Economics (EALE) was held September 14-16, 2006 in Madrid, Spain. Five papers have survived a strictly anonymous refereeing procedure of the highest standard as the ones to be published here in the Review of Law and Economics.
The Use of the Monte Carlo Method to Determine Optical Parameters of Tissue
Authors: Domański Grzegorz , Konarzewski Bogumił , Pawłowski Zdzisław , Zaremba Krzysztof , Marzec Janusz , Trybuła Artur , Kurjata Robert
Published: December 2008

The Use of the Monte Carlo Method to Determine Optical Parameters of Tissue

The paper presents the use of the Monte Carlo method to determine the optical parameters of tissue from steady-state diffuse reflectance measurements.
Ionisation Chambers Containing Boron as Neutron Detectors in Mixed Radiation Fields
Authors: Gryziński Michał , Tulik Piotr , Zielczyński Mieczysław
Published: December 2008

Ionisation Chambers Containing Boron as Neutron Detectors in Mixed Radiation Fields

The paper presents a newly designed ionisation chambers containing boron, operated in the initial recombination regime. The chambers were either filled with BF3 or the chamber electrodes were covered with B4C. The chambers can be placed in paraffin moderators. The sensitivity of the chambers was investigated depending on gas pressure, moderator thickness and polarizing voltage. The results showed that it was possible to obtain nearly the same sensitivity of the chamber to H* (10) for photons and neutrons in restricted energy range, however further investigations are needed to make an optimum design. The examples of applications for dosimetric measurements in mixed radiation fields near medical linear accelerator and in the vicinity of high-energy proton accelerator are presented.
Implementation of Impedance Method in Syncope Treatment
Authors: Pęczalski Kazimierz , Wojciechowski Dariusz , Dunajski Zbigniew , Pałko Tadeusz
Published: December 2008

Implementation of Impedance Method in Syncope Treatment

Current syncope treatment by cardiac pacing is limited to patients developing cardiodepressive reaction. There is strong need to apply this method to other types of reaction. Presented method shows, that impedance method can be applied for early detection of vasodepressive syncope. Thus the method can be applied for antivasovagal pacing in syncopic patients.
Monte Carlo Calculations of Selected Dose Components in a Head Model for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy
Authors: Tymińska Katarzyna
Published: December 2008

Monte Carlo Calculations of Selected Dose Components in a Head Model for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy is a very promising form of cancer therapy, consisting in irradiating a stable isotope of boron (10B) concentrated in tumor cells with a low energy neutron beam. This technique makes it possible to destroy tumor cells, leaving healthy tissues practically unaffected. In order to carry out the therapy in the proper way, the proper range of the neutron beam energy has to be chosen.

In this paper we present the results of the calculations, using the MCNP code, aiming at studying the energetic dependence of the absorbed dose from the neutron capture reaction on boron (the therapeutic dose), and hydrogen and nitrogen (the injuring dose).