bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EBV interferes with the sensitivity of Burkitt lymphoma Akata cells to etoposide
Authors: Lima Raquel T. , Seca Hugo , Soares Paula , Nascimento Maria São José , Vasconcelos M. Helena
Published: November 2010

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) commonly exhibits Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) positivity associated with latent chronic infection. Models of acute EBV infection have been associated with cellular resistance to apoptosis. However, the effect of latent long‐term EBV infection on apoptosis induced by drugs is not well defined. To determine this, we have studied the response of the Akata EBV+ cell line (type I latency) to etoposide, before and after downregulating EBV gene expression. We observed that downregulating EBV nuclear antigen‐1 (EBNA‐1) expression with siRNAs reverted cellular sensitivity to etoposide. In accordance with this finding, Akata EBV+ cells showed increased sensitivity to etoposide, when compared to the Akata EBV− cells. We also observed that Akata EBV+ cells presented increased apoptosis levels and decreased Bcl‐xL mRNA and protein levels, when compared to the Akata EBV− cells. In addition, Akata EBV+ cells contained less endoplasmic reticulum (ER) than EBV− cells. Finally, downregulation of EBV with EBNA‐1 siRNAs caused an increase in the expression of Bcl‐xL indicating that EBV is responsible for the differences found between the Akata EBV+ and EBV− cell lines. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 200–210, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
COUP‐TFII switches responses of venous endothelium to atherosclerotic factors through controlling the profile of various inherent genes expression
Authors: Wu Xiaojing , Zou Yunzeng , Liang Yanyan , Zhou Qi , Gong Hui , Sun Aijun , Yuan Lingyan , Wang Keqiang , Ge Junbo
Published: November 2010

Endothelial cells of arteries (AEC) have a strikingly greater responsiveness to atherosclerosis factors than venous endothelial cells (VEC). However, the reasons for this phenomenon remain unclear. Chicken ovalbumin upstream promoter‐transcription factor II (COUP‐TFII) plays an important role in regulating embryonic arterial‐venous differentiation. We therefore investigate whether COUP‐TFII is related to this different susceptibility between AEC and VEC. It is first confirmed that COUP‐TFII is expressed in VEC but not in AEC in the adult. Using a siRNA strategy, we identified the expression of Jagged1 and Notch1 in cultured human VEC, which usually exist only in AEC, after knocking down of COUP‐TFII. To further elucidate the role of COUP‐TFII, we performed DNA microarrays in VEC transfected with the siRNA of COUP‐TFII and subsequently stimulated with angiotensin II (AngII) and compared the expression profiles of 112 genes involved in various atherosclerosis‐related pathways. The results indicated that expression of atherogenic genes was significantly upregulated after AngII stimulation in VEC transfected with COUP‐TFII siRNA. Moreover, in vitro cell functional assay showed that knockdown of COUP‐TFII in VEC increased not only basal but also AngII‐induced cell adhesions. These results demonstrate that COUP‐TFII suppresses the susceptibility of VEC to atherosclerosis through controlling the expression of various atherosclerosis‐related molecules. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 256–264, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
FPTB, a novel CA‐4 derivative, induces cell apoptosis of human chondrosarcoma cells through mitochondrial dysfunction and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways
Authors: Liu Ju‐Fang , Fong Yi‐Chin , Chang Kai‐Wei , Kuo Sheng‐Chu , Chang Chih‐Shiang , Tang Chih‐Hsin
Published: November 2010

Chondrosarcoma is a malignant primary bone tumor that responds poorly to both chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The aim of this study was to elucidate the mechanism of the novel Combretastatin A‐4 derivative, 2‐(furanyl)‐5‐(pyrrolidinyl)‐1‐(3,4,5‐trimethoxybenzyl)benzoimidazole (FPTB)‐induced human chondrosarcoma cells apoptosis. FPTB induced cell apoptosis in human chondrosarcoma cell line but not primary chondrocytes. FPTB induced up‐regulation of Bax and Bak, down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐XL and dysfunction of mitochondria in chondrosarcoma. FPTB also triggered endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, as indicated by changes in cytosol‐calcium levels. We found that FPTB increased glucose‐regulated proteins (GRP)78 but not GRP94 expression. In addition, treatment of cells with FPTB induced calpain expression and activity. Transfection of cells with GRP78 or calpain siRNA reduced FPTB‐mediated cell apoptosis. Therefore, FPTB‐induced apoptosis in chondrosarcoma cells through the mitochondria dysfunction and involves caspase‐9 and caspase‐3‐mediated mechanism. FPTB also induced cell death mediated by increasing ER stress, GPR78 activation, and Ca2+ release, which subsequently triggers calpain, caspase‐12 and caspase‐3 activity, resulting in apoptosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 112: 453–462, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The role of asporin in mineralization of human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Lee Eun‐Hyang , Park Hye‐Jeong , Jeong Ji‐Hyun , Kim Young‐Jin , Cha Du‐Won , Kwon Dae‐Keun , Lee Sang‐Han , Cho Je‐Yoel
Published: November 2010

Human adult dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) are a unique precursor population isolated from postnatal dental pulp and have the ability to regenerate a reparative dentin‐like complex. In this study, we investigated the role of Asporin in hDPSCs, which was identified as a matrix protein in our previous dentin proteomic analysis. We isolated a clonogenic, highly proliferative population of cells from adult human dental pulp. These isolated hDPSCs were confirmed by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS) using stem cell‐specific markers and have shown multilineage differentiation potential. The localization of Asporin was identified by immunohistochemistry in the globular calcification region in the junction of predentin and dentin. The gene and protein expression levels of Asporin were enhanced at the early stage of and then reduced during the late stage of differentiation of hDPSCs in mineralization media. ASPN knock‐down using a lentiviral system suppressed the mineralization of hDPSCs. These results suggest that ASPN plays positive roles in the mineralization of hDPSCs and predentin to dentin. J. Cell. Physiol. 226: 1676–1682, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PARTNERSHIP AND INTER‐DEPENDENCE IN AID CHAINS: SOCIAL PATHOLOGY OR SOCIAL HEALTH?
Authors: Morse Stephen , McNamara Nora
Published: November 2010

This paper explores partnership in the Catholic Church‐aid chain. The focus for the research was the wielding of power in relationships and the notion that agencies involved in a relationship will be motivated to represent this as a partnership even if it is far from being so (a ‘social pathology’). The aid chain selected for the research comprised a number of dioceses in Nigeria and two of the major International Catholic Church‐based donors. In the Catholic Church‐based aid chain there is the time and determination to work matters out, which suggests inter‐dependency between all involved and avoidance of ‘social pathology’. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphology of the female reproductive system of European pea crabs (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura, Pinnotheridae)
Authors: Becker Carola , Brandis Dirk , Storch Volker
Published: November 2010

Commensal pea crabs inhabiting bivalves have a high reproductive output due to the extension andfecundity of the ovary. We studied the underlying morphology of the female reproductive system in the Pinnotheridae Pinnotheres pisum, Pinnotheres pectunculi and Nepinnotheres pinnotheres using light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Eubrachyura have internal fertilization: the paired vaginas enlarge into storage structures, the spermathecae, which are connected to the ovaries by oviducts. Sperm is stored inside the spermathecae until the oocytes are mature. The oocytes are transported by oviducts into the spermathecae where fertilization takes place. In the investigated pinnotherids, the vagina is of the “concave pattern” (sensu Hartnoll1968): musculature is attached alongside flexible parts of the vagina wall that controls the dimension of its lumen. The genital opening is closed by a muscular mobile operculum. The spermatheca can be divided into two distinct regions by function and morphology. The ventral part includes the connection with vagina and oviduct and is regarded as the zone where fertilization takes place. It is lined with cuticle except where the oviduct enters the spermatheca by the “holocrine transfer tissue.” At ovulation, the oocytes have to pass through this multilayered glandular epithelium performing holocrine secretion. The dorsal part of the spermatheca is considered as the main sperm storage area. It is lined by a highly secretory apocrine glandular epithelium. Thus, two different forms of secretion occur in the spermathecae of pinnotherids. The definite role of secretion in sperm storage and fertilization is not yet resolved, but it is notable that structure and function of spermathecal secretion are more complex in pinnotherids, and probably more efficient, than in other brachyuran crabs. J. Morphol., 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Systematic review of levodopa dose equivalency reporting in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Tomlinson Claire L. , Stowe Rebecca , Patel Smitaa , Rick Caroline , Gray Richard , Clarke Carl E.
Published: November 2010

Interpretation of clinical trials comparing different drug regimens for Parkinson's disease (PD) is complicated by the different dose intensities used: higher doses of levodopa and, possibly, other drugs produce better symptomatic control but more late complications. To address this problem, conversion factors have been calculated for antiparkinsonian drugs that yield a total daily levodopa equivalent dose (LED). LED estimates vary, so we undertook a systematic review of studies reporting LEDs to provide standardized formulae. Electronic database and hand searching of references identified 56 primary reports of LED estimates. Data were extracted and the mean and modal LEDs calculated. This yielded a standardized LED for each drug, providing a useful tool to express dose intensity of different antiparkinsonian drug regimens on a single scale. Using these conversion formulae to report LEDs would improve the consistency of reporting and assist the interpretation of clinical trials comparing different PD medications. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
The use of Fogs' test to assess associated movements in Parkinsonism, dystonia, and controls
Authors: Tuck Keiran K. , Yeow Tow Chan , Morris John G.L. , Baker Fran , Fung Victor S.C.
Published: November 2010

The Fogs' test elicits non‐homologous associated movements which reflect underlying pathology or immaturity of the CNS, but has not been thoroughly studied. We filmed participants performing a modified Fogs' test and developed a reliable scoring system for the associated movements. We assessed scores in healthy controls of all ages and compared scores in dystonia and parkinsonism to age similar controls. Associated movements were marked in children, lessened as they matured into adults, and then increased in old age. Associated movements were marked in dystonia but not in parkinsonism. Our scoring system showed robust inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability. The Fogs' test is a reliable addition to the clinical examination that can be used to screen for both normal and abnormal neurological status. We suggest a potential neural pathway via cervical‐lumbosacral connections within the spinal cord which are modulated by propriospinal and cerebral input. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Thermal decomposition study of poly(methyl methacrylate)/carbon nanofiller composites
Authors: Pozdnyakov A.O. , Handge U.A. , Konchits A. , Altstädt V.
Published: November 2010

This work compares the thermal degradation kinetics of neat atactic poly(methyl methacrylate) (a‐PMMA), and its composites with fullerene C60 and multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNT) as revealed by thermal desorption mass‐spectrometry (TDMS), and thermal gravimetry analysis (TGA). TDMS suggests the decrease of thermal stability of PMMA‐C60 composite compared to neat PMMA. This result is supported by the increased rate of defect formation in the composite as revealed by the electronic paramagnetic resonance, EPR, technique. On the other hand, TGA shows an increase of thermal degradation temperatures for composite compared to those of neat a‐PMMA. The discrepancies between TDMS and TGA data are discussed taking into account the difference of the experimental conditions of the two approaches, i.e. the size of the sample. The parameters which need to be thoroughly controlled in thermal degradation kinetic studies are outlined. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Targeting the immune system to cancer
Authors: Levitzki Alexander , Shir Alexei
Published: November 2010

Human cancers represent heterogeneous populations of cells whose genomes constantly change , so targeted therapies must be aimed at continuously changing networks. To overcome this difficulty a most promising strategy has been developed, which involves using a ligand‐guided vector carrying a double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) such as poly‐inosine/cytosine, or polyIC. Upon ligand‐induced receptor internalization, polyIC triggers the production of cytokines as well as chemokines, which in turn attract immune cells to the tumor. In mice, an EGFR targeted vector carrying polyIC, eradicates tumors that over express the EGF‐receptor using either local or systemic application. The treatment also eliminates mixed tumors, in which about half of the cells over express EGFR and the other half carry a truncated version of the receptor. This “bystander effect” is mediated by polyIC‐induced cytokines generated by the tumor. Immune cells that accumulate in the tumor also produce pro‐apoptotic cytokines. Reconstituting the immune system of SCID mice with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells immediately after treatment keeps the mice alive and cancer‐free for more than a year. This strategy could be utilized to treat any cancer with a significant population of cells that overexpress a protein that can be induced to internalize by a ligand. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ornithoctonus huwenna spider silk protein attenuating diameter and enhancing strength of the electrospun PLLA fiber
Authors: Zhang Min , Yi Ting‐ting , Zhang Ye‐mei , Zhang Lu , Wu Wei , Zhang Ai‐li , Pan Zhi‐juan
Published: November 2010

Spider silk and poly‐L‐lactic acid (PLLA) are both good bio‐medical materials. PLLA/spidroin composite nano‐fibers were obtained by electrospinning with the mixed solution of Ornithoctonus huwenna spider silk/1,1,1,3,3,3,‐hexafluoro‐2‐propanol (HFIP) and PLLA/HFIP. The morphology, molecular conformations, crystallinity degree and mechanical property of the electrospun fibers were investigated by means of SEM, FT‐IR, XRD, and tensile test. The results indicated that spider silk protein attenuated the fiber diameter and enhanced the mechanical property of the electrospun PLLA fibers. The diameter of electrospun PLLA fibers were micron level (>500 nm), while with the addition of spider silk protein, the diameter of the PLLA/spidroin composite fibers decreased significantly, reaching nano‐scale (<500 nm), and the diameter of the composite fibers displayed a bipolar distribution of coarse fibers (>300 nm) and fine fibers (<300 nm). The FT‐IR and XRD analysis showed that the blend nano‐fibers had higher crystallinity, and a phase separation occurred. The mechanical property of the electrospun fiber mat was improved by adding a certain amount of spider silk protein in the PLLA/HFIP solution. When the mass fraction of the spider silk protein was 4%, the breaking strength of the electrospun PLLA/spidroin composite nano‐fiber mat was 112% of pure PLLA micro‐fiber mat's. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Targeted array comparative genomic hybridisation (array CGH) identifies genomic imbalances associated with isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH)
Authors: Srisupundit Kasemsri , Brady Paul D. , Devriendt Koenraad , Fryns Jean‐Pierre , Cruz‐Martinez Rogelio , Gratacos Eduard , Deprest Jan A. , Vermeesch Joris R.
Published: November 2010

Objective

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a congenital birth defect affecting around 1/3000 births. We propose that a significant number of isolated CDH cases have an underlying genetic cause, and that a subset of these result from copy number variations (CNVs) identifiable by array CGH.

Methodology

We have designed a custom array targeted at genes and genomic loci associated with CDH. A total of 79 isolated CDH patients were screened using this targeted array.

Results

In three patients, we detected genomic imbalances associated with the observed diaphragmatic hernia; a deletion of 8p22‐p23.3, 14.2 Mb in size, a 340 kb duplication of Xq13.1 including the ephrin‐B1 gene (EFNB1), and mosaicism for trisomy 2.

Conclusion

Using this approach, we detected genomic imbalances associated with CDH in 3/79 (4%) isolated CDH patients. Our findings further implicate 8p deletions as being associated with CDH. The duplication of EFNB1 further highlights this gene as a potential candidate involved in diaphragm development. Mosaicism for trisomy 2 is a rare event and unlikely to be a common cause of CDH. Further investigations of isolated CDH patients by array CGH will continue to identify novel submicroscopic loci and refine genomic regions associated with CDH. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of a novel siloxane‐imide‐containing polybenzoxazine
Authors: Chen Kai‐Chi , Li Hsun‐Tien , Chen Wen‐Bin , Liao Chun‐Hsiung , Sun Kien‐Wen , Chang Feng‐Chih
Published: November 2010

A novel siloxane‐imide‐containing polybenzoxazine based on N,N′‐bis(N‐phenyl‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐benzo[1,3]oxazine)‐5, 5′‐bis(1,1′,3,3′‐tetramethyldisiloxane‐1,3‐diyl)‐bis(norborane‐2,3‐dicarboximide) (BZ‐A1) was successfully synthesized. The thermal properties of BZ‐A1 are superior to those of conventional polybenzoxazines lacking siloxane groups. Polymerized BZ‐A1 possesses extremely low surface free energy (γs = 15.1 mJ m−2) after curing at 230 °C for 1 h. Moreover, the surface free energy of polymerized BZ‐A1 is more stable than conventional bisphenol A‐type polybenzoxazine during thermal curing and annealing processes, indicating that polymerized BZ‐A1 is more suitable for applications requiring low surface free energy materials for high temperatures over long periods of time. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Safety considerations in electric gas heaters
Authors: Mathur Satish
Published: November 2010

Electric heaters are often used when heat duties are small and/or for plant startups prior to the availability of hot oil or steam. These heaters are often purchased as “black boxes” from vendors. In these cases, they may not have the appropriated safeguards.

This article is an analysis of an actual accident with an electric heater. The analysis given in this article shows that these heaters need to be included in PHAs and given appropriate safeguards—normally more than initially part of a vendor's unit. © 2010 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog, 2011.
Non‐oral contraceptives: their advantages and disadvantages
Authors: Everett Marian
Published: November 2010

There are a wide variety of non‐oral contraceptive options and all should be discussed during a consultation regarding contraception. Our Drug review considers the properties, efficacy and suitability of the non‐oral contraceptives, followed by sources of further information.
Photo‐induced phase switching dynamics in RbMn[Fe(CN)6] probed by accumulation free mid‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Asahara Akifumi , Nakajima Makoto , Fukaya Ryo , Tokoro Hiroko , Ohkoshi Shin‐ichi , Suemoto Tohru
Published: November 2010

Photo‐induced phase switching dynamics in rubidium manganese hexacyanoferrate was investigated by visible pump mid‐infrared probe transmittance spectroscopy between 2000 and 2250 cm−1. We monitored the CN− stretching vibration modes, which are sensitive to the valence states of the adjacent metal ions, to observe the transient changes of the valences. Accumulation free method was applied to this measurement to remove the persistent phase transition and maintain the initial state constant for every pump pulse. At low temperature, the sample in low temperature phase (LTP) is irradiated with 532 nm light to stimulate intervalence charge transfer (Fe2+ → Mn3+) band, and photoinduced high temperature phase (PI‐HTP), whose properties are similar to that of HTP, is created. The PI‐HTP is reversed to LT phase by irradiating with 400 nm light which stimulates ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer (CN− → Fe3+) band. In the photoinduced phase transition (PIPT) process from PI‐HTP to LTP, increase of the valence pairs corresponding to the phase boundary state resulting from the charge transfer, CN− to Fe3+, was clearly observed. The transient change has a rising time of shorter than 1 ps and a decay time longer than 100 ps. In the reverse process i.e., LTP to PI‐HTP, reduction of LTP and production of boundary state induced by the charge transfer, Fe2+ to Mn3+, were observed. These changes appeared within 1 ps and survived more than 100 ps.
Erratum: Effect of nitrogen on the InAs/GaAs quantum dot formation
Authors: Ivanova L. , Eisele H. , Lenz A. , Timm R. , Schumann O. , Geelhaar L. , Riechert H. , Dähne M.
Published: November 2010

Unfortunately, in the original paper the journal abbreviations of references [7] and [8] are interchanged. The correct citations are given here (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Correlation between structure and optoelectronic properties in a two‐dimensional nanoparticle assembly
Authors: Mangold Markus A. , Niedermeier Martin A. , Rawolle Monika , Dirks Beate , Perlich Jan , Roth Stephan V. , Holleitner Alexander W. , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: November 2010

The optical properties of two‐dimensional assemblies of metal nanoparticles are strongly influenced by the morphological configuration of the metal particles in the layer. Therefore, we correlate the structural and optical properties of two‐dimensional, hexagonal gold nanoparticle arrays. We characterize the structure of the arrays using grazing‐incidence small angle X‐ray scattering (GISAXS). From the GISAXS pattern, we determine the size of the gold particles as well as the lattice spacing of the hexagonal assembly. Based upon these parameters we calculate the dielectric function of the gold particle array using the Maxwell–Garnett effective medium theory. We further deduce the absorption spectrum which closely follows the measured absorption and photoconductance spectrum. (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Structural and Electronic Properties of Extremely Long Perylene Bisimide Nanofibers Formed through a Stoichiometrically Mismatched, Hydrogen‐Bonded Complexation
Authors: Yagai Shiki , Seki Tomohiro , Murayama Haruno , Wakikawa Yusuke , Ikoma Tadaaki , Kikkawa Yoshihiro , Karatsu Takashi , Kitamura Akihide , Honsho Yoshihito , Seki Shu
Published: November 2010

Extremely long nanofibers, whose lengths reach the millimeter regime, are generated via co‐aggregation of a melamine‐appended perylene bisimide semiconductor and a substituted cyanurate, both of which are ditopic triple‐hydrogen‐bonding building blocks; they co‐aggregate in an unexpected stoichiometrically mismatched 1:2 ratio. Various microscopic and X‐ray diffraction studies suggest that hydrogen‐bonded polymeric chains are formed along the long axis of the nanofibers by the 1:2 complexation of the two components, which further stack along the short axis of the nanofibers. The photocarrier generation mechanism in the nanofibers is investigated by time‐of‐flight (TOF) experiments under electric and magnetic fields, revealing the birth and efficient recombination of singlet geminate electron–hole pairs. Flash‐photolysis time‐resolved microwave conductivity (FP‐TRMC) measurements revealed intrinsic 1D electron mobilities up to 0.6 cm2 V−1 s−1 within nanofibers.
Structural Investigation of Homoleptic Lanthanide(III) Tris(pivalamidinates), [tBuC(NiPr)2]3Ln (Ln = Ce, Eu, Tb)
Authors: Dröse Peter , Blaurock Steffen , Hrib Cristian G. , Hilfert Liane , Edelmann Frank T.
Published: November 2010

Three new homoleptic lanthanide(III) tris(pivalamidinates), [tBuC(NiPr)2]3Ln (Ln = Ce (1), Eu (2), Tb (3)) were synthesized by reaction of anhydrous LnCl3 with 3 equivalents of in situ prepared Li[tBuC(NiPr)2] in THF. X‐ray structural analyses confirmed the presence of homoleptic, unsolvated tris(amidinates) in which the central Ln3+ ions are coordinated by three chelating pivalamidinate anions in a distorted all‐nitrogen trigonal prismatic arrangement. Compounds 1–3 all crystallize in the monoclinic system, with 1 and 3 containing solvent of crystallization (1: toluene, 3: n‐pentane) whereas the europium derivative 2 is unsolvated.
A Liberation Psychology Approach to Acculturative Integration of Migrant Populations
Authors: García-Ramírez Manuel , de la Mata Manuel L. , Paloma Virginia , Hernández-Plaza Sonia
Published: November 2010

This paper describes an acculturative integration approach that stresses the contribution of liberation psychology. Immigrant integration is a challenge for receiving countries in the Western world due to the frequent asymmetrical and oppressive conditions suffered by newcomers in their new settlements. The cross‐cultural perspective connects integration with psychological acculturation, emphasizing harmony between acquisitions of the new culture while maintaining cultural heritage, and creating opportunities for intergroup relationships. In turn, liberation psychology permits an understanding of the acculturative transition as an empowerment and self‐construction process by which immigrants acquire a new vision of the world and of themselves, transforming both structural conditions and themselves. From this perspective we conceptualize acculturative integration as the process by which newcomers become an accepted part of the new society through a reflexive and evaluative process, changing their social references and position, rebuilding their social and personal resources, and achieving a new agency in coherence with their new challenges and goals. In this process, they acquire critical thinking about unequal conditions, gain capacities to respond to the inequalities, and take effective actions to confront them. We illustrate this process using the narratives of nine Moroccan women who are living in asymmetrical and oppressive local contexts in Andalusia, the southern‐most region of Spain.
Exacerbation of erythropoietic protoporphyria by hyperthyroidism
Authors: Minder Elisabeth I. , Haldemann Andreas R. , Schneider‐Yin Xiaoye
Published: November 2010

Erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP) is a hereditary disorder caused by deficiency of ferrochelatase, the last enzyme in the heme biosynthetic pathway. The majority of EPP patients present with a clinical symptom of painful phototoxicity. Liver damage, the most serious complication of EPP, occurs in <5% of the patients. This report describes a case of an EPP patient who complained of worsening cutaneous symptoms, nervousness, and insomnia. Laboratory tests showed highly increased protoporphyrin concentration in erythrocytes and elevated serum transaminases that are indicative of EPP‐related liver damage. The subsequent finding of decreased serum thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) and increased free triiodothyronine (FT3) and free thyroxine (FT4) concentrations, as well antibodies against both thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and TSH receptors, led to the diagnosis of Graves’ disease. The patient received 500 MBq of radioiodine (I131). Three months after the radioactive iodine therapy, the thyroid volume was reduced to 30% of pretherapeutic volume. Although the patient was slightly hypothyroidic, his liver enzymes returned to normal, his erythrocytic protoporphyrin concentration dropped fivefold, and his skin symptoms improved dramatically. The coexistence of Graves’ disease and EPP is a statistically rare event as, besides our patient, there was one additional case reported in the literature. Although the exact mechanism whereby Graves’ disease interacts with EPP is yet to be explored, we recommend testing thyroid function in EPP patients with liver complication to exclude hyperthyroidism as a potential cause.
Homocysteine and vascular disease: review of published results of the homocysteine‐lowering trials
Authors: Clarke Robert , Halsey Jim , Bennett Derrick , Lewington Sarah
Published: November 2010

Moderately elevated homocysteine levels have been associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease in observational studies, but whether these associations are causal is uncertain. Randomized trials of dietary supplementation with B vitamins were set up to assess whether lowering homocysteine levels could reduce the risk of vascular disease. This review is based on a meta‐analysis of published results of eight homocysteine‐lowering trials for preventing vascular disease. The eight trials comprised a total of 37,485 individuals and provided comparisons of the effects of B vitamins on 5,074 coronary heart disease (CHD) events, 1,483 stroke events, 2,692 incident cancer events, and 5,128 deaths. Our meta‐analysis assessed the effects of lowering homocysteine levels by about 25% for about 5 years. Allocation to B vitamins had no beneficial effects on any cardiovascular events, with hazard ratios (95% confidence intervals) of 1.01 (0.96–1.07) for CHD and 0.96 (0.87–1.07) for stroke. Moreover, allocation to B vitamins had no significant adverse effects on cancer [1.08 (0.99–1.17)], or for death from any cause [1.02 (0.97–1.07)]. Thus, supplementation with B vitamins had no statistically significant effects on the risks of cardiovascular events, total mortality rates, or cancer. A meta‐analysis based on individual participant data from all available trials will assess the effects of lowering homocysteine levels on a broader range of outcomes, overall and in all relevant subgroups. However, available evidence does not support the routine use of B vitamins to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Determination of Free Glycerol in Biodiesel via Solid‐Phase Extraction and Spectrophotometric Analysis
Authors: Mercer Erin Jo , Halaweish Fathi
Published: November 2010

To date, the standardized method for glycerol quantification in biodiesel production utilizes gas chromatography (GC); however, availability to manufacturers and instrumentation cost limits GC as an analytical method for general quality enforcement among producers. The method developed here is a bench top technique for quantitative determination of glycerol in biodiesel, with practical application in pharmaceutical and environmental quality control. The method extracts the glycerol contaminant from biodiesel using a normal phase solid phase extraction column (SPE). The protocol proceeds by rinsing with hexane to remove residual methyl esters, then collecting the glycerol with water. The aqueous extract is analyzed spectrophotometrically by an anthrone coloring reagent. Use of 2‐g SPE columns and the solvent system developed has achieved 85% glycerol recovery. The assay applied has a detection range of 0.004–0.400% free glycerol, comparable to the established American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) D 6584‐07 GC technique. Results were confirmed by GC and high‐pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The bench top technique reduces the costs of operation relative to current methods, completes analysis in proficient time, requires minimal labor, and has analytical limits comparable to existing standard methods of biofuel analysis.
The West and Terrorism: Opportunities and Challenges for a Common Transatlantic Response
Authors: Mladenov Nickolay
Published: November 2010

9/11 brought a new type of security threat to the forefront of Western agendas: strategic terrorism. Through its pervasiveness in different aspects of society, such as economics and politics, strategic terrorism continues to defeat the superior military strength of the US. Given this situation, the transatlantic partnership between the US and the EU must be reinforced and utilised to develop innovative response strategies. Since becoming both a member of the EU and NATO, Bulgaria has been a staunch supporter of combating terrorism through a close transatlantic alliance and initiatives made within the UN framework.
Volumetric MRI analysis of hippocampal subregions in Cushing's disease: A model for glucocorticoid neural modulation
Authors: Toffanin T. , Nifosì F. , Follador H. , Passamani A. , Zonta F. , Ferri G. , Scanarini M. , Amistà P. , Pigato G. , Scaroni C. , Mantero F. , Carollo C. , Perini G.I.
Published: November 2010

Several preclinical studies have demonstrated neuronal effects of glucocorticoids on the hippocampus (HC), a limbic structure with anterior–posterior anatomical and functional segmentation. We propose a volumetric magnetic resonance imaging analysis of hippocampus head (HH), body (HB) and tail (HT) using Cushing's disease (CD) as model, to investigate whether there is a differential sensitivity to glucocorticoid neuronal damage in these segments. We found a significant difference in the HH bilaterally after 12 months from trans-sphenoidal surgical selective resection of the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-secreting pituitary micro-adenomas. This pre–post surgery difference could contribute to better understand the pathopysiology of CD as an in vivo model for stress-related hypercortisolemic neuropsychiatric disorders.
Coilin interacts with Ku proteins and inhibits in vitro non‐homologous DNA end joining
Authors: Velma Venkatramreddy , Carrero Zunamys I. , Cosman Angela M. , Hebert Michael D.
Published: November 2010

MINT‐8052983:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) physically interacts (MI:0915) with SmB′ (uniprotkb:P14678) by pull down (MI:0096)MINT‐8052941:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Ku70 (uniprotkb:P12956) by competition binding (MI:0405)MINT‐8052765:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Ku80 (uniprotkb:P13010) by pull down (MI:0096)MINT‐8052971:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) physically interacts (MI:0915) with SMN (uniprotkb:Q16637) by pull down (MI:0096)MINT‐8052957:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Ku80 (uniprotkb:P13010) by competition binding (MI:0405)MINT‐8052894, MINT‐8052908:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) binds (MI:0407) to Ku80 (uniprotkb:P13010) by pull down (MI:0096)MINT‐8052804:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Ku80 (uniprotkb:P13010) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006)MINT‐8052925:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) binds (MI:0407) to Ku70 (uniprotkb:P12956) by pull down (MI:0096)MINT‐8052786:Ku80 (uniprotkb:P13010) physically interacts (MI:0914) with coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) and Ku70 (uniprotkb:P12956) by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (MI:0006)MINT‐8052776:coilin (uniprotkb:P38432) physically interacts (MI:0915) with Ku70 (uniprotkb:P12956) by pull down (MI:0096)
Does Ethnic Diversity Erode Trust? Putnam’s ‘Hunkering Down’ Thesis Reconsidered
Authors: Sturgis Patrick , Brunton-Smith Ian , Read Sanna , Allum Nick
Published: November 2010

We use a multi-level modelling approach to estimate the effect of ethnic diversity on measures of generalized and strategic trust using data from a new survey in Britain with a sample size approaching 25,000 individuals. In addition to the ethnic diversity of neighbourhoods, we incorporate a range of indicators of the socio-economic characteristics of individuals and the areas in which they live. Our results show no effect of ethnic diversity on generalized trust. There is a statistically significant association between diversity and a measure of strategic trust, but in substantive terms, the effect is trivial and dwarfed by the effects of economic deprivation and the social connectedness of individuals.
Respecting Different Ways of Life: A Daoist Ethics of Virtue in theZhuangzi
Authors: Huang Yong
Published: November 2010

As the ethics of virtue, with a focus on cultivating admirable traits of character instead of commanding adherence to rigid rules, becomes increasingly popular in contemporary moral discourses, scholars have tried to find evidence of virtue ethics in such ancient traditions as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Confucianism. This article explores the possibility of a virtue ethics in a tradition that has been largely neglected, Chinese Daoism, by focusing on one of the most important classics in this tradition, theZhuangzi. Contrary to a common misconception of theZhuangzias skeptical, relativistic, and therefore empty of any guide to moral life, it presents a solid normative ethics through various stories, and this normative ethics is a virtue ethics. The most important trait of character in this Daoist virtue ethics is respect for different ways of life—a virtue not discussed in any familiar versions of virtue ethics in the West and yet most valuable to contemporary life in a global and pluralistic society.
The Rule of Colonial Indifference: Rape on Trial in Early Colonial India, 1805–57
Authors: Kolsky Elizabeth
Published: November 2010

This article explores the history of intraracial (Indian-on-Indian) rape in early colonial India. Though at times uneven and unpredictable in their rulings, British judges created a set of evidentiary requirements and a body of legal decisions that were as harsh on rape victims as the precolonial Islamic system was presumed to be. Despite the colonial promise of a more modern and humane criminal law, the gradual displacement of Islamic law did little to widen rape victims' path to legal remedy. English common law presumptions about the frequency of false charges and a suspicion of women's claims combined with a colonial insistence on the peculiarity of Indian culture to make it difficult for victims of rape to prevail in court. The colonial legal treatment of the “unsensational” crime of rape was rather unsensational. It largely reflected contemporary trends in England, which raises the important question of what was distinctively colonial about it.
Field study of the dynamics and modelling of subgrid-scale turbulence in a stable atmospheric surface layer over a glacier
Authors: BOU-ZEID ELIE , HIGGINS CHAD , HUWALD HENDRIK , MENEVEAU CHARLES , PARLANGE MARC B.
Published: November 2010

A field experiment – the Snow Horizontal Array Turbulence Study (SnoHATS) – has been performed over an extensive glacier in Switzerland in order to study small-scale turbulence in the stable atmospheric surface layer, and to investigate the role, dynamics and modelling of the subgrid scales (SGSs) in the context of large-eddy simulations. Thea prioridata analysis aims at comparing the role and behaviour of the SGSs under stable conditions with previous studies under neutral or unstable conditions. It is found that the SGSs in a stable surface layer remain an important sink of temperature variance and turbulent kinetic energy from the resolved scales and carry a significant portion of the fluxes when the filter scale is larger than the distance to the wall. The fraction of SGS fluxes (out of the total fluxes) is found to be independent of stability. In addition, the stress–strain alignment is similar to the alignment under neutral and unstable conditions. The model coefficients vary considerably with stability but in a manner consistent with previous findings, which also showed that scale-dependent dynamic models can capture this variation. Furthermore, the variation of the coefficients for both momentum and heat SGS fluxes can be shown to be better explained by stability parameters based on vertical gradients, rather than vertical fluxes. These findings suggest that small-scale turbulence dynamics and SGS modelling under stable conditions share many important properties with neutral and convective conditions, and that a unified approach is thus possible. This paper concludes with a discussion of some other challenges for stable boundary-layer simulations that are not encountered in the neutral or unstable cases.
Analytical and experimental characterization of a miniature calorimetric sensor in a pulsatile flow
Authors: GELDERBLOM H. , VAN DER HORST A. , HAARTSEN J. R. , RUTTEN M. C. M. , VAN DE VEN A. A. F. , VAN DE VOSSE F. N.
Published: November 2010

The behaviour of a miniature calorimetric sensor, which is under consideration for catheter-based coronary-artery-flow assessment, is investigated in both steady and pulsatile tube flows. The sensor is composed of a heating element operated at constant power and two thermopiles that measure flow-induced temperature differences over the sensor surface. An analytical sensor model is developed, which includes axial heat conduction in the fluid and a simple representation of the solid wall, assuming a quasi-steady sensor response to the pulsatile flow. To reduce the mathematical problem, described by a two-dimensional advection–diffusion equation, a spectral method is applied. A Fourier transform is then used to solve the resulting set of ordinary differential equations and an analytical expression for the fluid temperature is found. To validate the analytical model, experiments with the sensor mounted in a tube have been performed in steady and pulsatile water flows with various amplitudes and Strouhal numbers. Experimental results are generally in good agreement with theory and show a quasi-steady sensor response in the coronary-flow regime. The model can therefore be used to optimize the sensor design for coronary-flow assessment.
Telling Policy Stories: An Ethnographic Study of the Use of Evidence in Policy-making in the UK
Authors: STEVENS ALEX
Published: November 2010

Based on participant observation in a team of British policy-making civil servants carried out in 2009, this article examines the use that is made of evidence in making policy. It shows that these civil servants displayed a high level of commitment to the use of evidence. However, their use of evidence was hampered by the huge volume of various kinds of evidence and by the unsuitability of much academic research in answering policy questions. Faced with this deluge of inconclusive information, they used evidence to create persuasive policy stories. These stories were useful both in making acceptable policies and in advancing careers. They often involved the excision of methodological uncertainty and the use of ‘killer charts’ to boost the persuasiveness of the narrative. In telling these stories, social inequality was ‘silently silenced’ in favour of promoting policies which were ‘totemically’ tough. The article concludes that this selective, narrative use of evidence is ideological in that it supports systematically asymmetrical relations of power.
Disease outbreaks associated with untreated recreational water use
Authors: SCHETS F. M. , DE RODA HUSMAN A. M. , HAVELAAR A. H.
Published: November 2010

Annual overviews of waterborne disease outbreaks associated with untreated recreational water use provided by authorities responsible for bathing-water quality and public health in The Netherlands revealed 742 outbreaks during 1991–2007 mainly comprising of skin conditions (48%) and gastroenteritis (31%) and involving at least 5623 patients. The number of outbreaks per bathing season correlated with the number of days with temperatures over 25°C (r=0·8–0·9), but was not reduced through compliance with European bathing-water legislation (r=0·1), suggesting that monitoring of faecal indicator parameters and striving for compliance with water-quality standards may not sufficiently protect bathers. Bathing sites were prone to incidental faecal contamination events or environmental conditions that favoured the growth of naturally occurring pathogens. Identification of all possible contamination sources, awareness of changes that might negatively affect water quality, and provision of adequate information to the public are important preventive measures to protect public health.
Prevalence and risk factors for Salmonella in veal calves at Danish cattle abattoirs
Authors: NIELSEN L. R. , BAGGESEN D. L. , AABO S. , MOOS M. K. , RATTENBORG E.
Published: November 2010

The study's objectives were to determine herd- and animal-level prevalence and herd-level risk factors for Salmonella in dairy-bred veal calves at slaughter in Denmark. In total, 1296 faecal samples were collected at five cattle abattoirs in Denmark during 2007–2008. The animals came from 71 randomly selected specialized veal-calf producers that delivered more than 100 animals to slaughter per year. Salmonella Dublin bacteria were isolated from 19 samples from 12 herds and Salmonella Typhimurium was isolated from one sample. The apparent prevalence of herds delivering Salmonella-shedding animals to slaughter was 18% (95% CI 9–27). The overall estimated true prevalence of shedding calves at slaughter was 1·3%. Veal-calf herds that purchased animals from herds not classified as low risk in the Danish Salmonella surveillance programme had significantly (P=0·03) higher risk of delivering Salmonella-shedding calves to slaughter. The results emphasize the importance of efforts in the dairy industry to ensure food safety for consumers.
The Effect of Perioperative Betamethasone on Post-operative Nausea, Vomiting and Pain in Children Undergoing Tonsillar Surgery
Authors: Johansson Ulrica , Sundgren Carola , Tano Krister , van den Berg Johannes
Published: November 2010

Objectives

:To investigate if a single dose of betamethasone given perioperatively could reduce common post-operative problems such as vomiting, nausea and pain in children undergoing tonsillar surgery.

Background

:Post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) are common problems after surgery caused by several perioperative factors, such as post-operative pain. Prophylactic treatment of PONV can be effective in improving recovery after surgery. Studies have shown that the use of a single dose of dexamethasone during tonsillectomies in children was efficient against PONV. Dexamethasone is not available in Sweden for intravenous administration; betamethasone was thought to be an alternative.

Method

:The study was a retrospective cohort study including 69 children who underwent tonsillar surgery. A single dose of betamethasone perioperatively was introduced to a group of 32 children, to reduce PONV while 37 children did not receive betamethasone. Data were received from the medical records and from a post-operative questionnaire.

Results

:No significant differences for children undergoing tonsillar surgery regarding the prevalence of PONV between the betamethasone group and the non-betamethasone group were found. This was maybe due to a comparatively low dose of betamethasone. However, the given dose was sufficient to significantly reduce post-operative pain.