bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Per2 Is a C/EBP Target Gene Implicated in Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Gery Sigal , Koeffler H. Phillip
Published: November 2009

Circadian rhythms are endogenous biological clocks that govern fundamental physiological and behavioral functions. Consequently, perturbations of these rhythms have been associated with pathogenic conditions, such as depression, diabetes, and cancer. CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBPs) are a family of transcription factors that regulate cell growth and differentiation in various tissues and have also been implicated in many cancer types. Using expression profiling studies, we found that the levels of 2 core components of the circadian network, Per2 and Rev-Erbα, are significantly altered by C/EBPs. Further studies showed that levels of Per2 were reduced in lymphoma and acute myeloid leukemia patient samples, as well as in lymphoma cell lines. Overexpression of Per2 in hematopoietic cancer cell lines resulted in growth inhibition, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and loss of clonogenic ability. These results support the emerging role of circadian genes in tumor suppression.
Stability and Change in Risk Seeking: Investigating the Effects of an Intervention Program
Authors: Hay Carter , Meldrum Ryan , Forrest Walter , Ciaravolo Emily
Published: November 2009

Although much is known about the consequences of low self-control, little is known about how it develops during adolescence and what types of experiences trigger important changes. This study considers this by examining a key component of low self-control—risk-seeking propensity—to determine its stability and change during early adolescence, its effects on changes in delinquency, and its responsiveness to a comprehensive delinquency-reduction program. These issues were examined with data from the Children at Risk (CAR) program, a randomly assigned intervention that targeted early adolescents. The analysis revealed substantial stability in risk seeking, but there was evidence of change as well, and these changes were associated with contemporaneous changes in delinquency. Risk-seeking changes were not, however, a result of participation in the CAR program, despite that program’s success at reducing some forms of delinquency. The theoretical and policy implications of these findings are addressed.
The association between metabolic syndrome and coronary artery disease in Jordan
Authors: Khader Yousef S. , Khasawneh Basheer , Daoud Ammar K. , Khatatbeh Moawiah
Published: November 2009

Background: Previous studies in Jordan showed a considerably high prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MeS) and its individual components. However, data about the association between MeS and coronary artery disease (CAD) in Jordan are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the association between MeS and CAD among Jordanians.

Methods: This case-control study included 269 patients diagnosed with CAD and 1026 subjects without CAD. Data collected from cases and controls included socio-demographic and clinical characteristics and anthropometric measurements. Patients were diagnosed with MeS based on the criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) adult treatment panel (ATP) III.

Results: MeS was present in 65.1% of patients with CAD and in 44.0% of those with no CAD (p<0.0005). After adjusting for the important variables in the multivariate analysis, those with MeS were twice more likely to have CAD (OR = 1.94, 95% CI: 1.29, 2.93, p = 0.002) compared to those without MeS. The number of metabolic abnormalities was significantly associated with CAD, when it substituted MeS in the regression model, with a higher number of MeS components led to greater odds for CAD.

Conclusions: The MeS, which occurs very frequently in the general population, is associated with CAD in Jordan. The identification of subjects with the MeS is conceivably useful from a clinical standpoint, as it can be anticipated that these individuals should benefit from interventions aimed at reducing cardiovascular risk.
Reach and effectiveness of DVD and in-person diabetes self-management education
Authors: Glasgow Russell E. , Edwards Linda L. , Whitesides Holly , Carroll Nikki , Sanders Tristan J. , McCray Barbara L.
Published: November 2009

Objectives: To evaluate the reach and effectiveness of a diabetes self-management DVD compared to classroom-based instruction.

Methods: A hybrid preference/randomized design was used with participants assigned to Choice v. Randomized and DVD v. Class conditions. One hundred and eighty-nine adults with type 2 diabetes participated. Key outcomes included self-management behaviours, process measures including DVD implementation and hypothesized mediators and clinical risk factors.

Results: In the Choice condition, four times as many participants chose the mailed DVD as selected Class-based instruction (38.8 v. 9.4%, p<0.001). At the 6-month follow-up, the DVD produced results generally not significantly different than classroom-based instruction, but a combined Class plus DVD condition did not improve outcomes beyond those produced by the classes alone.

Discussion: The DVD appears to have merit as an efficient and appealing alternative to brief classroom-based diabetes education, and the hybrid design is recommended to provide estimates of programme reach.
Taking a chance: the experience of lung volume reduction procedures for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Gullick Janice G. , Colleen Stainton M.
Published: November 2009

Objectives: Lung Volume Reduction Surgery and Endo-Bronchial ValveTM insertion have expanded the therapeutic choices for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Controversy over efficacy, costs and risks limits access to these therapies. There are no published findings to guide our understanding of the patient’s experience of surgery. The aim of this study is to understand the experience of palliative surgery for COPD.

Methods: Merleau-Ponty’s philosophy provided a framework for this Heideggerian phenomenological inquiry. Fifty-eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 patients undergoing lung volume reduction procedures and 14 family members.

Results: Patients and families felt they had no option but to ‘take a chance’ on surgery. Interventions frequently led to regaining lost tasks or easier completion of existing tasks. Where patients did not perceive an increase in things they could ‘do’, surgery allowed some to reclaim their sense of self. Regardless of the outcome, most did not regret their decision for surgery.

Discussion: Meanings of surgery are not always tied to the visible, objective measurements of outsiders but may relate to regaining of self. Despite the concerns of some clinicians, patients and families are more likely to accept the risk of morbidity and mortality from surgery than has previously been realized.
Are some more equal than others? Social comparison in self-management skills training for long-term conditions
Authors: Rogers Anne , Gately Claire , Kennedy Anne , Sanders Caroline
Published: November 2009

Background: Social comparisons influence self-evaluation and social and psychological adjustment to illness but are under-explored in relation to self-skills training group situations.

Methods: A longitudinal qualitative study embedded within an RCT of a national programme of lay led self-care support in England (Department of Health, 2001). In-depth interviews were undertaken with a purposeful maximum variation sample of recruits. Data were analysed thematically. Three key themes emerged highlighting (1) the experience of group participation and interaction, (2) the process and (3) function of social comparison.

Results: Data highlight the salience of social comparison as an underlying feature of the group dynamics of self-care skills training. The nature, dimensions and scope of social comparisons extend beyond the cognitive states and dimensions traditionally forming the focus of social—psychological approaches to social comparison to include wider dimensions including entitlement to resources. The results confirm the tendency to make positive comparisons that result in beneficial self-evaluations. However, positive comparisons allow respondents to present themselves as socially and morally worthy, which may act to mask the identification of appropriate need and inequalities.

Conclusion: Social comparisons function both as an accurate representation of internal cognitive states but also constitutes identity work involving competing values and moral requirements. We show that even those who report significant needs will sometimes portray themselves in a way that suggests positive social comparisons, which fit with a rationed and morally prescriptive and acceptable view of entitlement to NHS services. Such insights suggest that social comparisons in initiatives such as the EPP may be beneficial for some but exacerbate rather than alleviate health inequalities in long-term condition management for others.
Theoretical approaches and methodological strategies in Latin American empirical research on television audiences: 1992—2007
Authors: Lozano José-Carlos , Frankenberg Lorena
Published: November 2009

This article reports the findings of a review and methodological critique of 96 Latin American empirical studies on television reception published between 1992 and 2007 in the most important journals of the region. The analysis compares the studies according to their theoretical approach, the research technique used, their sample size, the type of audience members studied, the type of television content researched and the scholars mentioned the most in their references. Findings show that Cultural Studies is by far the most popular theoretical approach in Latin American audience research, and that two of the topics covered the most were television and daily life and the importance of social and cultural mediations. The article also concludes that many studies lack a solid methodological base. Morley, Orozco, Martín-Barbero, García-Canclini and Lull were the scholars mentioned the most in the reference sections. The article ends with a diagnosis of the strengths and weaknesses of current Latin American empirical research on television audiences and points out the need for more methodological rigor and more emphasis on the analysis of ideological readings and impact.
Al-Jazeera English and global news networks: clash of civilizations or cross-cultural dialogue?
Authors: Powers Shawn , el-Nawawy Mohammed
Published: November 2009

This article examines the role of the global news media in either furthering the balkanization of the global news environment or moving towards a globally connected and engaged aggregation of publics. Drawing on the results of a six-country study of media viewing habits, cultural, political and cognitive dispositions of viewers of Al-Jazeera English in comparison to viewers of CNN International and BBC World, the authors outline two findings: (1) viewers worldwide turn to particular broadcasters to affirm rather than inform their opinions, meaning the global news media are likely to reinforce existing attitudes and stereotypes of cultural ‘others’; and (2) the longer viewers have been watching Al-Jazeera English, the less dogmatic they are in their thinking and thus more open to considering alternative and clashing opinions. The authors conclude by arguing that, when media jettison the principles embodied in ‘war journalism’, broadcasters can indeed have a latent yet substantial impact on fostering cross-cultural understanding and reconciliation.
Understanding personalized medicine in rheumatoid arthritis: a clinician’s guide to the future
Authors: Burgos Paula I. , Danila Maria I. , Kelley James M. , Hughes Laura B. , Bridges S. Louis
Published: November 2009

Personalized medicine refers to the utilization of technologies at the molecular level to understand disease processes and improve health outcomes. In rheumatoid arthritis (RA) some factors associated with disease outcome have been identified. These factors have not yet been integrated into a clinically useful tool to predict disease outcome in individual patients. Developments in pharmacogenomics are moving the field forward quite rapidly. Genetic variants, which may have a role in drug metabolism mediating either drug response or toxicity, have been identified for both traditional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs and biologic agents. Choosing a medication based on a patient’s characteristics (sociodemographic, clinical, genetic) will result in better utilization of resources and better clinical outcomes. The ethical, political, and legal implications of personalized medicine need to be considered as well.
VEGF/VEGFR2 interaction down-regulates matrix metalloproteinase–9 via STAT1 activation and inhibits B chronic lymphocytic leukemia cell migration
Authors: Ugarte-Berzal Estefanía , Redondo-Muñoz Javier , Eroles Pilar , del Cerro Mercedes Hernández , García-Marco José A. , Terol María José , García-Pardo Angeles
Published: November 2009

B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) migration involves several molecules, including matrix metalloproteinase–9 (MMP-9) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). We have studied whether VEGF regulates MMP-9. VEGF significantly reduced MMP-9 protein expression in a dose-dependent manner, measured by gelatin zymography. Blocking the VEGFR2 receptor restored MMP-9 levels, implicating this receptor in the observed effect. Down-regulation of MMP-9 by VEGF resulted in significant inhibition of B-CLL cell migration through Matrigel or human umbilical vein endothelial cells, confirming the crucial role of MMP-9 in these processes. Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction analyses revealed that VEGF regulated MMP-9 at the transcriptional level. Indeed, VEGF induced STAT1 tyrosine phosphorylation, and this was blocked by inhibiting VEGFR2. STAT1 was responsible for MMP-9 down-regulation, as STAT1 gene silencing restored MMP-9 production and B-CLL cell migration in the presence of VEGF. Thus, the levels of VEGF and MMP-9 influence B-CLL cell expansion and both molecules could constitute therapeutic targets for this disease.
Viral and host proteins involved in picornavirus life cycle
Authors: Lin Jing-Yi , Chen Tzu-Chun , Weng Kuo-Feng , Chang Shih-Cheng , Chen Li-Lien , Shih Shin-Ru
Published: November 2009

Picornaviruses cause several diseases, not only in humans but also in various animal hosts. For instance, human enteroviruses can cause hand-foot-and-mouth disease, herpangina, myocarditis, acute flaccid paralysis, acute hemorrhagic conjunctivitis, severe neurological complications, including brainstem encephalitis, meningitis and poliomyelitis, and even death. The interaction between the virus and the host is important for viral replication, virulence and pathogenicity. This article reviews studies of the functions of viral and host factors that are involved in the life cycle of picornavirus. The interactions of viral capsid proteins with host cell receptors is discussed first, and the mechanisms by which the viral and host cell factors are involved in viral replication, viral translation and the switch from translation to RNA replication are then addressed. Understanding how cellular proteins interact with viral RNA or viral proteins, as well as the roles of each in viral infection, will provide insights for the design of novel antiviral agents based on these interactions.
Ligand-specific sequential regulation of transcription factors for differentiation of MCF-7 cells
Authors: Saeki Yuko , Endo Takaho , Ide Kaori , Nagashima Takeshi , Yumoto Noriko , Toyoda Tetsuro , Suzuki Harukazu , Hayashizaki Yoshihide , Sakaki Yoshiyuki , Okada-Hatakeyama Mariko
Published: November 2009

Background

Sharing a common ErbB/HER receptor signaling pathway, heregulin (HRG) induces differentiation of MCF-7 human breast cancer cells while epidermal growth factor (EGF) elicits proliferation. Although cell fates resulting from action of the aforementioned ligands completely different, the respective gene expression profiles in early transcription are qualitatively similar, suggesting that gene expression during late transcription, but not early transcription, may reflect ligand specificity. In this study, based on both the data from time-course quantitative real-time PCR on over 2,000 human transcription factors and microarray of all human genes, we identified a series of transcription factors which may control HRG-specific late transcription in MCF-7 cells.

Results

We predicted that four transcription factors including EGR4, FRA-1, FHL2, and DIPA should have responsibility of regulation in MCF-7 cell differentiation. Validation analysis suggested that one member of the activator protein 1 (AP-1) family,FOSL-1(FRA-1 gene), appeared immediately followingc-FOSexpression, might be responsible for expression of transcription factorFHL2through activation of the AP-1 complex. Furthermore, RNAi gene silencing ofFOSL-1andFHL2resulted in increase of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) phosphorylation of which duration was sustained by HRG stimulation.

Conclusion

Our analysis indicated that a time-dependent transcriptional regulatory network including c-FOS, FRA-1, and FHL2 is vital in controlling the ERK signaling pathway through a negative feedback loop for MCF-7 cell differentiation.
Cardiac embolization of an implanted fiducial marker for hepatic stereotactic body radiotherapy: a case report
Authors: Hennessey Hooman , Valenti David , Cabrera Tatiana , Panet-Raymond Valerie , Roberge David
Published: November 2009

Introduction

In liver stereotactic body radiotherapy, reduction of normal tissue irradiation requires daily image guidance. This is typically accomplished by imaging a surrogate to the tumor. The surrogate is often an implanted metal fiducial marker. There are few reports addressing the specific risks of hepatic fiducial marker implantation. These risks are assumed to be similar to percutaneous liver biopsies which are associated with a 1-4% complication rate - almost always pain or bleeding. To the best of our knowledge, we present the first case of such a fiducial marker migrating to the heart.

Case presentation

An 81-year-old Caucasian man (5 years post-gastrectomy for a gastric adenocarcinoma) was referred post-second line palliative chemotherapy for radiotherapy of an isolated liver metastasis. It was decided to proceed with treatment and platinum fiducials were chosen for radiation targeting. Under local anesthesia, three Nester embolization coils (Cook Medical Inc., Bloomington, IN, USA) were implanted under computed tomography guidance. Before the placement of each coil, the location of the tip of the delivery needle was confirmed by computed tomography imaging. During the procedure, the third coil unexpectedly migrated through the hepatic vein to the inferior vena cava and lodged at the junction of the vena cava and the right atrium. The patient remained asymptomatic. He was immediately referred to angiography for extraction of the coil. Using fluoroscopic guidance, an EN Snare Retrieval System (Hatch Medical L.L.C., Snellville, GA, USA) was introduced through a jugular catheter; it successfully grasped the coil and the coil was removed. The patient was kept overnight for observation and no immediate or delayed complications were encountered due to the migration or retrieval of the coil. He subsequently went on to be treated using the remaining fiducials.

Conclusion

Implanted fiducial markers are increasingly used for stereotactic radiotherapy. There is sparse literature on the risks of such procedures. Although uncommon, the risk of migration does exist and therefore physicians (surgeons, oncologists and radiologists) and patients should be aware of this possibility.
Cap analog substrates reveal three clades of cap guanine-N2 methyltransferases with distinct methyl acceptor specificities
Authors: Benarroch Delphine , Jankowska-Anyszka Marzena , Stepinski Janusz , Darzynkiewicz Edward , Shuman Stewart
Published: November 2009

The Tgs proteins are structurally homologous AdoMet-dependent eukaryal enzymes that methylate the N2 atom of 7-methyl guanosine nucleotides. They have an imputed role in the synthesis of the 2,2,7-trimethylguanosine (TMG) RNA cap. Here we exploit a collection of cap-like substrates to probe the repertoire of three exemplary Tgs enzymes, from mammalian, protozoan, and viral sources, respectively. We find that human Tgs (hTgs1) is a bona fide TMG synthase adept at two separable transmethylation steps: (1) conversion of m7G to m2,7G, and (2) conversion of m2,7G to m2,2,7G. hTgs1 is unable to methylate G or m2G, signifying that both steps require an m7G cap. hTgs1 utilizes a broad range of m7G nucleotides, including mono-, di-, tri-, and tetraphosphate derivatives as well as cap dinucleotides with triphosphate or tetraphosphate bridges. In contrast, Giardia lamblia Tgs (GlaTgs2) exemplifies a different clade of guanine-N2 methyltransferase that synthesizes only a dimethylguanosine (DMG) cap structure and cannot per se convert DMG to TMG under any conditions tested. Methylation of benzyl7G and ethyl7G nucleotides by hTgs1 and GlaTgs2 underscored the importance of guanine N7 alkylation in providing a key π-cation interaction in the methyl acceptor site. Mimivirus Tgs (MimiTgs) shares with the Giardia homolog the ability to catalyze only a single round of methyl addition at guanine-N2, but is distinguished by its capacity for guanine-N2 methylation in the absence of prior N7 methylation. The relaxed cap specificity of MimiTgs is revealed at alkaline pH. Our findings highlight both stark and subtle differences in acceptor specificity and reaction outcomes among Tgs family members.
Confronting Entrenched Insurgents
Authors: Kaplan Edward H. , Kress Moshe , Szechtman Roberto
Published: November 2009

During counterinsurgency operations, government forces with superior firepower confront weaker low-signature insurgents. Under what conditions should government (Blue) forces attack insurgent (Red) strongholds? How should the government allocate its force across different strongholds when the insurgents' threat to the Blue civilian population must be taken into account? How should the government respond to “smart” insurgents who anticipate the government's optimal plan of attack and prepare accordingly? How do the results change when the government takes Red civilian casualties resulting from attacks on insurgent strongholds into account? This article addresses these questions. Using Lanchester models modified to account for imperfect intelligence, we formulate an optimal force allocation problem for the government and develop a knapsack approximation that has tight error bounds. We also model a sequential force allocation game between the insurgents and the government and solve for its equilibrium. When the government has perfect intelligence, in equilibrium the insurgents concentrate their force in a single stronghold that the government either attacks or not depending upon the resulting casualty count. Otherwise, under reasonable assumptions regarding the government's behavior and intelligence capabilities, it is optimal for the insurgents to “spread out” in a way that maximizes the number of soldiers required to win all battles. If the government worries about Red civilian casualties, the insurgents have a strong incentive to blend in with the Red civilian population, because this can prevent government attacks while allowing the insurgents to inflict casualties on Blue civilians. Such strategic behavior makes it harder for the government to protect its citizens from insurgent attacks.
Stroke Biomarkers: Progress and Challenges for Diagnosis, Prognosis, Differentiation, and Treatment
Authors: Saenger Amy K , Christenson Robert H
Published: November 2009

Background: Stroke is a devastating condition encompassing a wide range of pathophysiological entities that include thrombosis, hemorrhage, and embolism. Current diagnosis of stroke relies on physician clinical examination and is further supplemented with various neuroimaging techniques. A single set or multiple sets of blood biomarkers that could be used in an acute setting to diagnosis stroke, differentiate between stroke types, or even predict an initial/reoccurring stroke would be extremely valuable.

Content: We discuss the current classification, diagnosis, and treatment of stroke, focusing on use of novel biomarkers (either solitary markers or multiple markers within a panel) that have been studied in a variety of clinical settings.

Summary: The current diagnosis of stroke remains hampered and delayed due to lack of a suitable mechanism for rapid (ideally point-of-care), accurate, and analytically sensitive biomarker-based testing. There is a clear need for further development and translational research in this area. Potential biomarkers identified need to be transitioned quickly into clinical validation testing for further evaluation in an acute stroke setting; to do so would impact and improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Advance error by error, with erring steps: embracing and exploring mistakes and failure across the psychophysical performer training space and the page
Authors: Clarke Alissa
Published: November 2009

Within a practical environment that reeks of the possibility of failure (Zarrilli 2002a: 163), psychophysical performer trainers, like Phillip Zarrilli and Sandra Reeve, discursively construct alternative rules and understandings of mistakes and failure. Participants' sustained assimilation
of these alternative rules lead to the necessary reconsideration and removal of conditioned responses to mistakes and failure. Through a selection of examples, and from the position of participant-observation, this article highlights how these alternative rules of mistakes and failure can
be usefully examined within, and applied to, the reflective documentation of such psychophysical practices. The examination and application of these alternative rules can help to create a more embodied, performative form of articulation that engages with the experiences of the live, fallible,
processual body. Such articulation works to tackle, upon the page and then through to the practice space, participants' disembodied conditioned responses to mistakes and failure, and supports development of a fuller psychophysical engagement.

This article explores the means of, and results
from, creating this embodied articulation in pertinent and reflexive dialogue with Luce Irigaray and, particularly, Hlne Cixous's theoretical writings. These writings explore and play with notions of bodies, embodiment and embodied writing. Moreover, direct and stimulating connections can
be drawn between the practical alternative understandings of mistakes and Cixous's and Irigaray's emphasis upon the importance of frailty, error and kindness within the processes of writing.

Therefore, through the focus of mistakes and failure, this article proposes a new interpretation
of the role of written articulations of pre-performative practice that can be used by, and taught to and by, training participants and practitioners. It demonstrates processes of written reflection that offer access to, feed, and critically analyse the embodied, creative and intuitive experiences
of the psychophysical training space.
Molecular pathways mediating the anti-inflammatory effects of calcitriol: implications for prostate cancer chemoprevention and treatment
Authors: Krishnan Aruna V , Feldman David
Published: November 2009

Calcitriol, the hormonally active form of vitamin D, exerts multiple anti-proliferative and pro-differentiating actions including cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis in many malignant cells, and the hormone is currently being evaluated in clinical trials as an anti-cancer agent. Recent research reveals that calcitriol also exhibits multiple anti-inflammatory effects. First, calcitriol inhibits the synthesis and biological actions of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins (PGs) by three mechanisms: i) suppression of the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, the enzyme that synthesizes PGs; ii) up-regulation of the expression of 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase, the enzyme that inactivates PGs; and iii) down-regulation of the expression of PG receptors that are essential for PG signaling. The combination of calcitriol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs results in a synergistic inhibition of the growth of prostate cancer (PCa) cells and offers a potential therapeutic strategy for PCa. Second, calcitriol increases the expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase 5 in prostate cells resulting in the subsequent inhibition of p38 stress kinase signaling and the attenuation of the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Third, calcitriol also exerts anti-inflammatory activity in PCa through the inhibition of nuclear factor-κB signaling that results in potent anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects. Other important direct effects of calcitriol as well as the consequences of its anti-inflammatory effects include the inhibition of tumor angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. We hypothesize that these anti-inflammatory actions, in addition to the other known anti-cancer effects of calcitriol, play an important role in its potential use as a therapeutic agent for PCa. Calcitriol or its analogs may have utility as chemopreventive agents and should be evaluated in clinical trials in PCa patients with early or precancerous disease.
How Could Reconstruction of 'Linguistic Contexts' of Political Debates Advance Our Understanding of the Democratic Transition in Hungary, 1989-90?
Authors: Szücs Zoltán G.
Published: November 2009

This analysis of the political discourse during the democratic transition in Hungary 1989/90 turned to the question of the effects of the 'linguistic contexts' on the dynamics of political debates. The analysis is grounded on written sources of the diaries of the National Roundtable Talks and those of the Opposition Roundtable as well as some other written materials. After outlining the theoretical horizon of the concept of a political language, and the linguistic context in the Hungarian political culture of the late 1980s containing four political languages (national historical, realpolitical, ethnoradical, and technocratic) as well as three different modes of speaking about national history (independency, historical-legal, doctrine of St. Crown), the next step is a closer analysis of the dynamics of the debate on the presidential institution. Finally, we turn to a historical analysis.
A case of pneumonia following human infection with avian influenza a (H5N1)
Authors: Erben Nurettin , Kartal Elif , Alpat Saygin , Ozgunes Ilhan , Usluer Gaye
Published: November 2009

The H5N1 infection was diagnosed in 12 patients in Turkey and confirmed by the WHO. Of these 12 patients so far, 8 have been published. In this case, we are presenting a case of pneumonia that developed following avian influenza infection in Eskisehir. Our case is one of the 4 patients who were not reported previously.
Risk factors for osteoporosis in healthy males
Authors: Seven Özlem , Karapolat Hale , Eyigor Sibel , Kirazlı Yesim , Durmaz Berrin
Published: November 2009

We investigated the correlation of bone mineral density (BMD) with risk factors and laboratory parameters (e.g., markers of bone turnover, biochemical indicators, and hormonal factors) in males without secondary osteoporosis. A total of 105 males were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n: 52) <60 years, and Group 2 (n:53) ≥ 60 years. The subjects were evaluated for risk factors (European Vertebral Osteoporosis Study (EVOS) and BMD) and for biochemical (i.e., blood calcium, blood phosphorus, urinary calcium/phosphorus, creatinine clearance, osteocalcin, and deoxypyridinoline) and hormonal markers (follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH], luteinizing hormone [LH], free testosterone [fT], and parathyroid [PTH]) of bone mineral metabolism. In Group 1, no significant relationship was observed between risk factors for both lumbar and femoral neck BMDs and risk factors and laboratory parameters (p>0.05). On the other hand, we observed in Group 2 a significant positive correlation between lumbar BMD and BMI, BMI at 25 years of age, and fT; in the same group, a negative correlation between lumbar BMD and deoxypyridinoline (p<0.05) was seen. We saw a significant positive correlation between femoral neck BMD and BMI, BMI at 25 years of age, and daily activities of life in Group 2. In addition, we saw a negative correlation between femoral neck BMD and height difference, fT, LH, and deoxypyridinoline in Group 2 (p<0.05). Risk factors for male osteoporosis were multifactorial: demographic and clinical data (difference of height, BMI, physical activity) together with biochemical and hormonal data (deoxypyridinoline, fT, LH) were significant, and most of the risk factors analyzed were related to bone loss in the proximal femur.
Mental retardation and consanguinity in a selected region of the Israeli Arab community
Authors: Sharkia Rajach , Azem Abdussalam , Kaiyal Qassem , Zelnik Nathanel , Mahajnah Muhammad
Published: November 2009

The prevalence of genetic diseases and congenital malformation in the Israeli Arab community is relatively high, but its distribution is not uniform. The aim of this study was to estimate the frequency of mental retardation disorders in children living in 5 Israeli Arab villages and determine its association with consanguinity. Mental retardation was found to affect 300 children in the screened population, yielding an overall prevalence of 14.5 per 1000. Most of those affected (68%) were the offspring of consanguineous marriages. One village with a high prevalence (4.3%) of neurological hereditary diseases was studied in detail. The prevalence of neurological hereditary diseases and mental retardation associated with consanguinity in these children highlights the need to implement appropriate preventive program.
Both thalamic and pallidal deep brain stimulation for myoclonic dystonia
Authors: Oropilla Jean Q. L. , Diesta Cid C. E. , Itthimathin Parunut , Suchowersky Oksana , Kiss Zelma H. T.
Published: November 2009

Myoclonic dystonia is poorly managed with medication and may be severe enough to warrant surgical intervention. Surgery has targeted either the globus pallidus pars interna (GPi) or the thalamus, but there is no accepted target for this condition. The authors present the case of a 23-year-old man treated with unilateral deep brain stimulation in both the thalamus and GPi. His movement disorder improved dramatically with stimulation. Two years postoperatively, the authors performed a double-blind assessment of the effects of each stimulator together, separately, and off stimulation. Videotape assessment, using tremor, dystonia, and myoclonus rating scales, showed that most of the benefit could be attributed to pallidal stimulation, although there was some advantage to stimulation at both sites. These results suggest that while GPi stimulation may be the better target for this condition, thalamic stimulation may be added in cases in which the benefit is insufficient.
Segment Tracking via a Spatiotemporal Linking Process including Feedback Stabilization in an n-D Lattice Model
Authors: Dellen Babette , Erdal Aksoy Eren , Wörgötter Florentin
Published: November 2009

Model-free tracking is important for solving tasks such as moving-object tracking and action recognition in cases where no prior object knowledge is available. For this purpose, we extend the concept of spatially synchronous dynamics in spin-lattice models to the spatiotemporal domain to track segments within an image sequence. The method is related to synchronization processes in neural networks and based on superparamagnetic clustering of data. Spin interactions result in the formation of clusters of correlated spins, providing an automatic labeling of corresponding image regions. The algorithm obeys detailed balance. This is an important property as it allows for consistent spin-transfer across subsequent frames, which can be used for segment tracking. Therefore, in the tracking process the correct equilibrium will always be found, which is an important advance as compared with other more heuristic tracking procedures. In the case of long image sequences, i.e., movies, the algorithm is augmented with a feedback mechanism, further stabilizing segment tracking.
Hydroxyapatite supported caesium carbonate as a new recyclable solid base catalyst for the Knoevenagel condensation in water
Authors: Gupta Monika , Gupta Rajive , Anand Medha
Published: November 2009

The Knoevenagel condensation between aromatic aldehydes and malononitrile, ethyl cyanoacetate or malonic acid with hydroxyapatite supported caesium carbonate in water is described. HAP–Cs2CO3 was found to be a highly active, stable and recyclable catalyst under the reaction conditions.
Time Controlled Protein Release from Layer‐by‐Layer Assembled Multilayer Functionalized Agarose Hydrogels
Authors: Mehrotra Sumit , Lynam Daniel , Maloney Ryan , Pawelec Kendell M. , Tuszynski Mark H. , Lee Ilsoon , Chan Christina , Sakamoto Jeffrey
Published: November 2009

Axons of the adult central nervous system exhibit an extremely limited ability to regenerate after spinal cord injury. Experimentally generated patterns of axon growth are typically disorganized and randomly oriented. Support of linear axonal growth into spinal cord lesion sites has been demonstrated using arrays of uniaxial channels, templated with agarose hydrogel, and containing genetically engineered cells that secrete brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). However, immobilizing neurotrophic factors secreting cells within a scaffold is relatively cumbersome, and alternative strategies are needed to provide sustained release of BDNF from templated agarose scaffolds. Existing methods of loading the drug or protein into hydrogels cannot provide sustained release from templated agarose hydrogels. Alternatively, here it is shown that pH‐responsive H‐bonded poly(ethylene glycol)(PEG)/poly(acrylic acid)(PAA)/protein hybrid layer‐by‐layer (LbL) thin films, when prepared over agarose, provided sustained release of protein under physiological conditions for more than four weeks. Lysozyme, a protein similar in size and isoelectric point to BDNF, is released from the multilayers on the agarose and is biologically active during the earlier time points, with decreasing activity at later time points. This is the first demonstration of month‐long sustained protein release from an agarose hydrogel, whereby the drug/protein is loaded separately from the agarose hydrogel fabrication process.
High‐Strain Shape‐Memory Polymers
Authors: Voit Walter , Ware Taylor , Dasari Raghunath R. , Smith Paul , Danz Lauren , Simon Dustin , Barlow Stephen , Marder Seth R. , Gall Ken
Published: November 2009

Shape‐memory polymers (SMPs) are self‐adjusting, smart materials in which shape changes can be accurately controlled at specific, tailored temperatures. In this study, the glass transition temperature (Tg) is adjusted between 28 and 55 °C through synthesis of copolymers of methyl acrylate (MA), methyl methacrylate (MMA), and isobornyl acrylate (IBoA). Acrylate compositions with both crosslinker densities and photoinitiator concentrations optimized at fractions of a mole percent demonstrate fully recoverable strains at 807% for a Tg of 28 °C, at 663% for a Tg of 37 °C, and at 553% for a Tg of 55 °C. A new compound, 4,4′‐di(acryloyloxy)benzil (referred to hereafter as Xini) in which both polymerizable and initiating functionalities are incorporated in the same molecule, was synthesized and polymerized into acrylate shape‐memory polymers, which were thermomechanically characterized yielding fully recoverable strains above 500%. The materials synthesized in this work were compared to an industry standard thermoplastic SMP, Mitsubishi's MM5510, which showed failure strains of similar magnitude, but without full shape recovery: residual strain after a single shape‐memory cycle caused large‐scale disfiguration. The materials in this study are intended to enable future applications where both recoverable high‐strain capacity and the ability to accurately and independently position Tg are required.
Sensing of Alkylating Agents Using Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Gannot Yair , Hertzog‐Ronen Carmit , Tessler Nir , Eichen Yoav
Published: November 2009

Alkylating agents are simple and reactive molecules that are commonly used in many and diverse fields, such as organic synthesis, medicine, and agriculture. Some highly reactive alkylating species are also being used as blister chemical warfare agents. The detection and identification of alkylating agent is not a trivial issue because of their high reactivity and simple structure. Here, a novel polythiophene derivative that is capable of reacting with alkylating agents is reported, along with its application in direct electrical sensing of alkylators using an organic field‐effect transistor, OFET, device. Upon reacting with alkylators, the OFET containing the new polythiophene analogue as its channel becomes conductive, and the gate effect is lost; this is in marked contrast to the response of the OFET to “innocent” vapors, such as alcohols and acetone. By following the drain–source current under gate bias, one can easily follow the processes of absorption of the analyte to the polythiophene channel and their subsequent reaction.
Bio‐microfluidics: Biomaterials and Biomimetic Designs
Authors: Domachuk Peter , Tsioris Konstantinos , Omenetto Fiorenzo G. , Kaplan David L.
Published: November 2009

Bio‐microfluidics applies biomaterials and biologically inspired structural designs (biomimetics) to microfluidic devices. Microfluidics, the techniques for constraining fluids on the micrometer and sub‐micrometer scale, offer applications ranging from lab‐on‐a‐chip to optofluidics. Despite this wealth of applications, the design of typical microfluidic devices imparts relatively simple, laminar behavior on fluids and is realized using materials and techniques from silicon planar fabrication. On the other hand, highly complex microfluidic behavior is commonplace in nature, where fluids with nonlinear rheology flow through chaotic vasculature composed from a range of biopolymers. In this Review, the current state of bio‐microfluidic materials, designs and applications are examined. Biopolymers enable bio‐microfluidic devices with versatile functionalization chemistries, flexibility in fabrication, and biocompatibility in vitro and in vivo. Polymeric materials such as alginate, collagen, chitosan, and silk are being explored as bulk and film materials for bio‐microfluidics. Hydrogels offer options for mechanically functional devices for microfluidic systems such as self‐regulating valves, microlens arrays and drug release systems, vital for integrated bio‐microfluidic devices. These devices including growth factor gradients to study cell responses, blood analysis, biomimetic capillary designs, and blood vessel tissue culture systems, as some recent examples of inroads in the field that should lead the way in a new generation of microfluidic devices for bio‐related needs and applications. Perhaps one of the most intriguing directions for the future will be fully implantable microfluidic devices that will also integrate with existing vasculature and slowly degrade to fully recapitulate native tissue structure and function, yet serve critical interim functions, such as tissue maintenance, drug release, mechanical support, and cell delivery.
Patterning and Templating for Nanoelectronics
Authors: Galatsis Kosmas , Wang Kang L. , Ozkan Mihri , Ozkan Cengiz S. , Huang Yu , Chang Jane P. , Monbouquette Harold G. , Chen Yong , Nealey Paul , Botros Youssry
Published: November 2009

The semiconductor industry will soon be launching 32 nm complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology node using 193 nm lithography patterning technology to fabricate microprocessors with more than 2 billion transistors. To ensure the survival of Moore's law, alternative patterning techniques that offer advantages beyond conventional top‐down patterning are aggressively being explored. It is evident that most alternative patterning techniques may not offer compelling advantages to succeed conventional top‐down lithography for silicon integrated circuits, but alternative approaches may well indeed offer functional advantages in realising next‐generation information processing nanoarchitectures such as those based on cellular, bioinsipired, magnetic dot logic, and crossbar schemes. This paper highlights and evaluates some patterning methods from the Center on Functional Engineered Nano Architectonics in Los Angeles and discusses key benchmarking criteria with respect to CMOS scaling.
Brief communication: Sexual dimorphism of the juvenile basicranium
Authors: Veroni Adam , Nikitovic Dejana , Schillaci Michael A.
Published: November 2009

The purpose of this article is to examine the level of sexual dimorphism exhibited in the foramen magnum and occipital condyles of juveniles, and to test the utility of this sexual dimorphism for estimating sex. Using five basicranial measurements taken from 36 juveniles of known sex and age from the Lisbon documented collection (Portugal), we evaluated sexual dimorphism in the juvenile cranial base. Our application of a method previously applied solely to adults indicated that the basicranium is sexually dimorphic in juveniles, with larger foramen magnum and occipital condyle dimensions observed in males. Significant univariate differences between males and females were found for length and breadth of the foramen magnum, and breadth of the left occipital condyle. Using these measurements, multivariate discriminant analysis indicated that sex was correctly assigned 75.8% of time. Obtained accuracy, however, was lower than reported by previous studies of adult samples. We suggest that this discrepancy is a result of population variability rather than age. Am J Phys Anthropol 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of soluble and thermally stable polyamides from diamine containing (quinolin‐8‐yloxy) aniline pendant group
Authors: Ghaemy Mousa , Bazzar Massoom
Published: November 2009

A novel diamine monomer having pendant 4‐(quinolin‐8‐yloxy) aniline group was successfully synthesized via aromatic substitution reaction of 8‐quinolinol with p‐fluoronitrobenzene followed by Pd/C catalyzed hydrazine reduction, amidation reaction between 4‐(quinolin‐8‐yloxy) aniline and 3,5‐dinitrobenzoylcholoride followed by Pd/C catalyzed hydrazine reduction. The diamine monomer was fully characterized by using FTIR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, and elemental analysis. The diamine monomer was polymerized with various aromatic and aliphatic dicarboxylic acids to obtain the corresponding polyamides. The polyamides had inherent viscosity in the range of 0.30–0.41 dL/g and exhibited excellent solubility in the polar aprotic solvents such as DMAc, NMP, N,N‐dimethylformamide, Pyridine, and DMSO. The glass transition temperatures (Tg) of the polymers are high (up to 313°C) and the decomposition temperatures (Ti) range between 200 and 370°C, depending on the diacids residue in the polymers backbone. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010
Qualitative Comparison of the Cranio‐Dental Osteology of the Extant Elephants,Elephas Maximus(Asian Elephant) andLoxodonta africana(African Elephant)
Authors: Todd Nancy E.
Published: November 2009

Few osteological descriptions of the extant elephants and no detailed morphological comparison of the two genera,ElephasandLoxodonta, have been done in recent years. In this study, 786 specimens of extant elephants (crania, mandibles, and molars) were examined for characters unique to each species. Differences between sexes in each species were described, as well as differences between subspecies of each species. Striking differences in morphology were noted between sexes of both elephants and between subspecies, which may complement current genetic studies, the focus of which is to determine division at the subspecies or species level, particularly differences between the savanna elephant (Loxodonta africana africana) and the forest elephant (Loxodonta africana cyclotis). In addition, examination of the two living elephants provides an excellent dataset for identifying phylogenetic characters for use in examining evolutionary relationships within and between fossil lineages of elephantids. Anat Rec, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.