bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myocardin Is Sufficient for a Smooth Muscle-Like Contractile Phenotype
Authors: Long Xiaochun , Bell Robert D. , Gerthoffer William T. , Zlokovic Berislav V. , Miano Joseph M.
Published: May 2008

Background—

Myocardin (Myocd) is a strong coactivator that binds the serum response factor (SRF) transcription factor over CArG elements embedded within smooth muscle cell (SMC) and cardiac muscle cyto-contractile genes. Here, we sought to ascertain whether Myocd-mediated gene expression confers a structural and physiological cardiac or SMC phenotype.

Methods and Results—

Adenoviral-mediated expression of Myocd in the BC
3
H1 cell line induces cardiac and SMC genes while suppressing both skeletal muscle markers and cell growth. Immunofluorescence microscopy shows that SRF and a SMC-like cyto-contractile apparatus are elevated with Myocd overexpression. A short hairpin RNA to Srf impairs BC
3
H1 cyto-architecture; however, cotransduction with Myocd results in complete restoration of the cyto-architecture. Electron microscopic studies demonstrate a SMC ultrastructural phenotype with no evidence for cardiac sarcomerogenesis. Biochemical and time-lapsed videomicroscopy assays reveal clear evidence for Myocd-induced SMC-like contraction.

Conclusion—

Myocd is sufficient for the establishment of a SMC-like contractile phenotype.
A Gain-of-Function TBX5 Mutation Is Associated With Atypical Holt–Oram Syndrome and Paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Postma Alex V. , van de Meerakker Judith B.A. , Mathijssen Inge B. , Barnett Phil , Christoffels Vincent M. , Ilgun Aho , Lam Jan , Wilde Arthur A.M. , Lekanne Deprez Ronald H. , Moorman Antoon F.M.
Published: May 2008

Holt–Oram syndrome (HOS) is a heart/hand syndrome clinically characterized by upper limb and cardiac malformations. Mutations in T-box transcription factor 5 (
TBX5
) underlie this syndrome. Here, we describe a large atypical HOS family in which affected patients have mild skeletal deformations and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, but few have congenital heart disease. Sequencing of TBX5 revealed a novel mutation, c.373G>A, resulting in the missense mutation p.Gly125Arg, in all investigated affected family members, cosegregating with the disease. We demonstrate that the mutation results in normal Nkx2-5 interaction, is correctly targeted to the nucleus, has significantly enhanced DNA binding and activation of both the
Nppa
(
Anf
) and
Cx40
promoter, and significantly augments expression of
Nppa
,
Cx40
,
Kcnj2
, and
Tbx3
in comparison with wild-type TBX5. Thus, contrary to previously published HOS mutations, the p.G125R TBX5 mutation results in a gain-of-function. We speculate that the gain-of-function mechanism underlies the mild skeletal phenotype and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and suggest a possible role of TBX5 in the development of (paroxysmal) atrial fibrillation based on a gain-of-function either through a direct stimulation of target genes via TBX5 or indirectly via TBX5 stimulated TBX3. These findings may warrant a renewed look at the phenotypes of families and individuals hitherto not classified as HOS or as atypical but presenting with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation, because these may possibly be the result of additional TBX5 gain-of-function mutations.
Pharmacological Inhibition of Na/Ca Exchange Results in Increased Cellular Ca
2+
Load Attributable to the Predominance of Forward Mode Block
Authors: Ozdemir Semir , Bito Virginie , Holemans Patricia , Vinet Laurent , Mercadier Jean-Jacques , Varro Andras , Sipido Karin R.
Published: May 2008

Block of Na/Ca exchange (NCX) has potential therapeutic applications, in particular, if a mode-selective block could be achieved, but also carries serious risks for disturbing the normal Ca
2+
balance maintained by NCX. We have examined the effects of partial inhibition of NCX by SEA-0400 (1 or 0.3 μmol/L) in left ventricular myocytes from healthy pigs or mice and from mice with heart failure (MLP
−/−
). During voltage clamp ramps with [Ca
2+
]
i
buffering, block of reverse mode block was slightly larger than of forward mode (by 25±5%,
P
<0.05). In the absence of [Ca
2+
]
i
buffering and with sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) fluxes blocked, rate constants for Ca
2+
influx and Ca
2+
efflux were reduced to the same extent (to 36±6% and 32±4%, respectively). With normal SR function the reduction of inward NCX current (
I
NCX
) was 57±10% (n=10); during large caffeine-induced Ca
2+
transients, it was larger (82±3%). [Ca
2+
]
i
transients evoked during depolarizing steps increased (from 424±27 to 994±127 nmol/L at +10mV,
P
<0.05), despite a reduction of
I
CaL
by 27%. Resting [Ca
2+
]
i
increased; there was a small decrease in the rate of decline of [Ca
2+
]
i
. SR Ca
2+
content increased more than 2-fold. Contraction amplitude of field-stimulated myocytes increased in healthy myocytes but not in myocytes from MLP
−/−
mice, in which SR Ca
2+
content remained unchanged. These data provide proof-of-principle that even partial inhibition of NCX results in a net gain of Ca
2+
. Further development of NCX blockers, in particular, for heart failure, must balance potential benefits of
I
NCX
reduction against effects on Ca
2+
handling by refining mode dependence and/or including additional targets.
Correlation of Carotid Atheromatous Plaque Inflammation Using USPIO-Enhanced MR Imaging With Degree of Luminal Stenosis
Authors: Tang Tjun Y. , Howarth Simon P.S. , Miller Sam R. , Graves Martin J. , U-King-Im Jean-Marie , Li Zhi-Yong , Walsh Stewart R. , Patterson Andrew J. , Kirkpatrick Peter J. , Warburton Elizabeth A. , Varty Kevin , Gaunt Michael E. , Gillard Jonathan H.
Published: May 2008

Background and Purpose—

Inflammation is a recognized risk factor for the vulnerable atherosclerotic plaque. The study explores the relationship between the degree of Magnetic Resonance (MR)–defined inflammation using Ultra Small Super-Paramagnetic Iron Oxide (USPIO) particles and the severity of luminal stenosis in asymptomatic carotid plaques.

Methods—

Seventy-one patients with an asymptomatic carotid stenosis of ≥40% underwent multi-sequence USPIO-enhanced MR imaging. Stenosis severity was measured according to the NASCET and ECST methods.

Results—

No demonstrable relationship between inflammation as measured by USPIO-enhanced signal change and the degree of luminal stenosis was found.

Conclusions—

Inflammation and stenosis are likely to be independent risk factors, although this needs to be further validated.
Not All Stroke Units Are the Same
Authors: Bernhardt Julie , Chitravas Numthip , Meslo Ingvild Lidarende , Thrift Amanda G. , Indredavik Bent
Published: May 2008

Background and Purpose—

Very early mobilization may be one of the most important factors contributing to the favorable outcome observed from a stroke unit in Trondheim, Norway. The aims of this study were to (1) describe and compare the pattern of physical activity of patients with stroke managed in a stroke unit with specified mobilization protocols (Trondheim) and those without in Melbourne, Australia; and (2) identify differences in activity according to stroke severity between the 2 sites.

Methods—

Melbourne patients were recruited from 5 metropolitan stroke units. Trondheim patients were recruited from the stroke unit at University Hospital, Trondheim. All patients <14 days poststroke were eligible for the study. Patients receiving palliative care were excluded. Consenting participants were observed at 10-minute intervals from 8:00
am
to 5:00
pm
over a single day. At each observation, patient location, activity, and the people present were recorded. Negative binomial regression analyses were undertaken to assess differences in physical activity patterns between stroke units in the 2 cities.

Results—

Patients in Melbourne and Trondheim had similar baseline characteristics. Melbourne patients spent 21% more time in bed and only 12.2% undertook moderate/high activity (versus 23.2% in Trondheim,
P
<0.001). This difference was even more pronounced among patients with greater stroke severity. The incidence rate ratio for time spent doing standing and walking activities in Melbourne was 0.44 (95% CI: 0.32 to 0.62) when compared with Trondheim.

Conclusion—

Higher activity levels were observed in Trondheim patients, particularly among those with more severe strokes. A greater emphasis on mobilization may make an important contribution to improved outcome. Further investigation of this is warranted.
Injection-Molded Solid and Microcellular Polylactide and Polylactide Nanocomposites
Authors: Kramschuster Adam , Gong Shaoqin , Turng Lih-Sheng , Li Tao , Li Tongnian
Published: May 2008

Microcellular injection molding is capable of producing lightweight, dimensionally stable plastic components with less material and energy. This process allows the material to be processed at lower temperatures and pressures, making it suitable for temperature-sensitive biobased plastics
and/or additives. This paper presents the effects of adding montmorillonite nanoclay (Cloisite®20A and Cloisite®30B) on the mechanical properties (specific modulus, specific tensile strength, specific toughness, and strain at break) of both solid and microcellular
polylactide components, as well as their effects on the cell morphology of the microcellular components. In general, the addition of nanoclay into biobased polylactide improved the specific moduli of both solid and microcellular components and facilitated the formation of smaller cell sizes
and higher cell densities. Adding nanoclay also reduced the strain at break and the specific toughness of solid polylactide nanocomposite components. However, the strain at break and specific toughness of microcellular polylactide nanocomposite components were largely improved in comparison
with microcellular polylactide components, especially when the loading level of the nanoclay was at 3% and 5%, presumably due to the lack of large voids, as well as the smaller cell size and higher cell density.
Apoferritin-Templated Yttrium Phosphate Nanoparticle Conjugates for Radioimmunotherapy of Cancers
Authors: Wu Hong , Wang Jun , Wang Zhemin , Fisher Darrell R. , Lin Yuehe
Published: May 2008

We report a templated-synthetic approach based on protein-cage of apoferritin to prepare radionuclide nanoparticle (NP) conjugates. Non-radioactive yttrium (89Y) was used as a model target and surrogate for radioyttrium (90Y) to prepare the nanoparticle conjugate.
The center cavity and multiple channel structure of apoferritin offer a fast and facile method to precipitate yttrium phosphate by diffusing yttrium and phosphate ions into the cavity of apoferritin, resulting a core–shell nanoparticle. The yttrium phosphate/apoferritin nanoparticle
was functionalized with biotin for further application. The synthesized nanoparticle was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). We found that the resulting nanoparticles were uniform in size, with a diameter of around 8 nm. We tested
the pre-targeting capability of the biotin-modified yttrium phosphate/apoferritin nanoparticle conjugate with streptavidin-modified magnetic beads and with aid of streptavidin-modified fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC) tracer. This work shows that an yttrium phosphate NP conjugate provides
a fast, simple and efficient method to prepare radioactive yttrium conjugate for potential applications in radioimmunotherapy of cancer.
Synthesis and Photoluminescent Properties of Nanocrystalline CaMoO4 Thin Film via Chemical Solution Processing
Authors: Yu Ping , Hu Guo-Bing , Tian Yun-Fei , Xiao Ding-Quan , Liu Yang , Guo Qing-Wu
Published: May 2008

Stoichiometric CaMoO4 thin film was successfully fabricated based on chemical solution processing. The thin films were deposited on Si(100) substrates by means of the spin-coating technique. X-ray diffraction reveals that the CaMoO4 thin film prepared are pure
and well crystalline thin films. Atom Force Microscope photographs indicate that the film prepared possesses a homogeneous and dense surface morphology. The average grain size of the films was 40–50 nm, and the root-mean-square (RMS) of the surface roughness and the average surface roughness
of the film measured were 2.161 nm and 1.726 nm respectively. The photoluminescent properties of calcium molybdate thin film under ultraviolet light excitation were systematically measured from 12 K to room temperature and a green emission band of the films were observed. The results of present
work confirm that the chemical solution processing is a promising technology on the fabrication of CaMoO4 thin film.
Synthesis and Characteristics of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes-Polyimide Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Tsai Mei-Hui , Chen Dong-Sen , Chiang Pei-Chun , Lin Hsin-Chuan , Jehng Jih-Mirn
Published: May 2008

The polyimide/multi-walled carbon nanotubes (PI/MWNTs) nanocomposite film has been successfully synthesized in this study. The source of MWNTs is prepared by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Then the MWNTs are washed with acid for purification before being added into the polymer
matrix. The acid-modified procedure aids in dispersing MWNTs in N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) solvent. Based on the results of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the MWNTs are embedded in PI and well-dispersed within the PI matrix.
The dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) shows that the storage modulus of nanocomposite film is increased by 68% with the addition of 1 wt% MWNTs into PI. The nanocomposite films start to decompose at or above 400 °C and lose 5% of its weight at 545 °C according to thermogravimetric
analysis (TGA). Meanwhile, the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposite film with 3 wt% MWNTs, is raised more than 10 orders of magnitude from 10−15 to 10−5 S/cm.
Characteristics and Photocatalytic Activity of TiO2 Thin Film Sensitized with a Porphyrin Dye
Authors: Yao K. S. , Wang D. Y. , Chang C. Y. , Ho W. Y. , Yang L. Y.
Published: May 2008

In this study, a novel porphyrin dye, 5, 10, 15, 20-tetraphenyl-21H, 23H-porphine nickel (TPPN) doped TiO2 (TiO2/TPPN) thin film with visible light respondency was prepared using a sol–gel method and characterized with XRD, SEM, UV-Vis instruments. The observation
showed that the absorption edge of TPPN dye-doped thin film shifted into the visible light region. The photocatalytic indigo carmine degradation results showed that under visible light irradiation (λ > 400 nm) for 6 hrs, the photocatalytic activity of TiO2 thin
film sensitized with 200 μM of TPPN dye showed the best performance, with an indigo degradation ratio up to 96%. Moreover, the TiO2/TPPN thin film showed a relevant photocatalytic bactericidal effect on Erwinia carotovora subsp. carotovora 7 induced vegetable
soft rot disease in the visible spectral region. Evidence for the photocatalytic disinfection technique against a plant pathogen under visible light irradiation will have potential for direct application in future control of plant diseases in irrigation water systems.
Fabrication and Biofunctionalization of Selenium-Polypyrrole Core–Shell Nanoparticles for Targeting and Imaging of Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Jing-Liang , Liu Xiang-Yang
Published: May 2008

Selenium-polypyrrole core–shell nanoparticles are fabricated by an in-situ polymerization process and functionalized with transferrin for targeting and imaging of human cervical cancer cells. The shell thickness and chemical composition of the as-synthesized particles can
be manipulated by controlling the precursor concentration. The presence of the polymer layer can greatly increase the thermal stability of the selenium nanoparticles. The presence of transferrin molecules on the surface of the core–shell nanoparticles can significantly enhance their
cellular uptake. The tranferrin-conjugated core–shell nanoparticles can be potentially used for the targeting and imaging of cancer cells.
Dynamic Susceptibility Investigation of Maghemite Nanoparticles Incorporated in Bovine Serum Albumin Template
Authors: Morais P. C. , Silveira L. B. , Oliveira A. C. , Lacava B. M. , Tedesco A. C. , Santos J. G.
Published: May 2008

Room-temperature measurements of the magnetic susceptibility of Bovine Serum Albumin-based nanocapsules (50 to 300 nm in size) loaded with different amounts of maghemite nanoparticles (7.6 nm average diameter) have been carried out in this study. The field (H) dependence of the
imaginary peak susceptibility (fP) of the nanocomposite samples was investigated in the range of 0 to 4 kOe. From the analysis of the fP × H curves the concentration (N) dependence of the effective maghemite magnetocrystalline energy
barrier (E) was obtained. Analysis of the E × N data was performed using a modified Mørup-Tronc [Phys. Rev. Lett. 72, 3278 (1994)] model, from which a huge contribution from the magnetocrystalline surface anisotropy was observed.
Nanostructured Nickel Oxide Films Prepared by Chemical Vapor Deposition and Their Electrochromic Properties
Authors: Vargas Garcia J. R. , Lazcano Ugalde E. M. , Hernandez Santiago F. , Hallen Lopez J. M.
Published: May 2008

The influence of the deposition conditions on the structural features and electrochromic properties of nickel oxide (NiO) films prepared by chemical vapor deposition has been investigated. NiO films have been prepared on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) coated glass substrates from nickel-acetylacetonate
precursor and their electrochromic properties have been studied by cyclic voltammetry in a 0.1 M KOH solution at room temperature. Films exhibiting only the NiO phase were obtained at deposition temperatures higher than 450 °C in a wide range of reactor pressures (0.13 to 66.6 kPa). Particularly,
NiO films prepared at 500–550 °C from 0.13 to 53.3 kPa are transparent in nature and exhibit a crystallite size varying from 10 to 60 nm. An appreciable anodic electrochromic change from transparent to black coloured resulted from a very porous surface morphology and film thickness
of about 3.5 μm. The electrochromic change was maintained over 3000 switching cycles. Nanostructured 3.5 μm-thick NiO films showed a maximum difference in optical transmittance of about 40% in the near-infrared region. These results make the nanostructured NiO films comparables
with those prepared by other deposition techniques.
Optimization of the Regional Spatial Distribution of Wind Power Plants to Minimize the Variability of Wind Energy Input into Power Supply Systems
Authors: Cassola Federico , Burlando Massimiliano , Antonelli Marta , Ratto Corrado F.
Published: May 2008

In contrast to conventional power generation, wind energy is not a controllable resource because of its stochastic nature, and the cumulative energy input of several wind power plants into the electric grid may cause undesired fluctuations in the power system. To mitigate this effect, the authors propose a procedure to calculate the optimal allocation of wind power plants over an extended territory to obtain a low temporal variability without penalizing too much the overall wind energy input into the power system. The procedure has been tested over Corsica (France), the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean Basin. The regional power supply system of Corsica could be sensitive to large fluctuations in power generation like wind power swings caused by the wind intermittency. The proposed methodology is based on the analysis of wind measurements from 10 anemometric stations located along the shoreline of the island, where most of the population resides, in a reasonably even distribution. First the territory of Corsica has been preliminarily subdivided into three anemological regions through a cluster analysis of the wind data, and the optimal spatial distribution of wind power plants among these regions has been calculated. Subsequently, the 10 areas around each station have been considered independent anemological regions, and the procedure to calculate the optimal distribution of wind power plants has been further refined to evaluate the improvements related to this more resolved spatial scale of analysis.
Rethinking Nationalism
Authors: Köksal Yonca
Published: May 2008

This article challenges the idea that a centralized administrative infrastructure, a common citizenship, and the resulting national belonging run in the same direction in state transformations. Comparing two Ottoman provinces of Edirne and Ankara, the author argues that community networks influence local responses to administrative centralization and national identity formation. In the province of Edirne, dense communal networks that bridged religious and ethnic boundaries maintained local cooperation with state centralization, whereas dense relations within religious and ethnic communities contributed to the failure of the formation of Ottoman national identity. In the province of Ankara, the lack of dense relations connecting different communities prevented reform success in both administrative and ideological dimensions.
A General Introduction to the Special Issue
Authors: Tilly Charles H.
Published: May 2008

For millennia, the Mediterranean Sea has connected Eurasia's western fifth—Europe—with Asia and Africa. These articles on Mediterranean political processes from 1400 to 2006 unfold against the background of regional distinctness. The Mediterranean gains special properties from its service as an intercontinental bridge, the diversity of its populations, the age-old but never successful competition for control of its perimeter, and the intensity of trading connections within its limits. All of these features have long shaped Mediterranean political processes and continue to do so today. The articles in these two special issues stand out not only for the light they shed on the region but also for their adoption of a relational perspective on Mediterranean political processes.
Supporting Graduate Students of Color in Educational Administration Preparation Programs: Faculty Perspectives on Best Practices, Possibilities, and Problems
Authors: Young Michelle D. , Brooks Jeffrey S.
Published: May 2008

Overview: This article presents findings from a study that examined faculty perspectives on how individual faculty members and institutions support graduate students of color in educational administration preparation programs.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify strategies that faculty members and institutions employ to support graduate students of color. The authors were also interested in understanding challenges that face individuals and institutions as they seek to provide such support.

Data Sources: Data were collected through a series of focus group sessions and from individual interviews conducted with a diverse sample of faculty members during a 3-year period.

Findings: Findings suggested that effective support for graduate students of color in educational administration preparation programs entails proactive yet thoughtful, individual, and institutional work in four areas: (a) recognizing and engaging issues of race in educational administration preparation programs, (b) effective and race-sensitive mentorship, (c) creation and sustenance of multi-tiered and multi-purpose support networks, and (d) establishment of formal and informal support structures.
Perceived Danger and Judged Likelihood of Restoration
Authors: Herzog Thomas R. , Rector Ashley E.
Published: May 2008

The authors investigated the impact of perceived danger on judged likelihood of restoration. Participants imagined that they were in a state of directed attention fatigue and then that they were taking a walk in a potentially restorative setting. The authors varied two properties of the setting in a factorial design. The setting was either a nature trail or a busy urban street, and it contained either no obvious source of danger or an ominous stalker. Measures of perceived danger and of judged likelihood of restoration were obtained. For both types of measures, in the low-danger condition the two setting categories differed, with the natural setting seen as less dangerous and more likely to be restorative. In the high-danger condition, the difference between the setting categories was eliminated. The authors conclude that the presence of a serious and potentially uncontrollable source of danger can damage the perceived restorative potential of a setting.
The Light of Christ and the Church
Authors: Kasper Walter Cardinal
Published: May 2008

Taking the theme of the Third European Ecumenical Assembly, `The Light of Christ Shines upon All,' the author reflects on the foundation and importance of ecumenical work in the Christian Churches. Emphasizing the shared common ground of faith, Cardinal Kasper underlines that our differences are always secondary to our common foundation in Jesus Christ, and this is something that ought never to be let out of sight. Ecumenical dialogue now needs to go beyond merely pointing out areas of convergence and engage more earnestly in learning from one another. Christianity is central to European identity and if Europe is to have a future, it needs a shared vision and a shared set of basic values.
Review Article: Franz Overbeck: A Review of Recent Literature (Part 1)
Authors: Henry Martin
Published: May 2008

In the light of some recent publications, this review article, which will appear in two parts, considers the writings of the Basel theology professor, Franz Overbeck (1837—1905), whose sceptical critique of the Christian tradition and particularly of its theology has been attracting more attention in the last quarter of a century.
Mimicking Attractive Opposite-Sex Others: The Role of Romantic Relationship Status
Authors: Karremans Johan C. , Verwijmeren Thijs
Published: May 2008

Based on the recent literature indicating that nonconscious behavioral mimicry is partly goal directed, three studies examined, and supported, the hypothesis that people who are involved in a romantic relationship nonconsciously mimic an attractive opposite-sex other to a lesser extent than people not involved in a relationship. Moreover, Studies 2 and 3 revealed that romantically involved persons tended to mimic an attractive alternative less to the extent that they were more close to their current partner. Finally, Study 3 provided preliminary support for a potential underlying mechanism, revealing that the effect of relationship status on level of mimicry displayed toward an opposite-sex other is mediated by perceived attractiveness of the opposite-sex other. The present findings suggest that behavioral mimicry serves an implicit self-regulatory function in relationship maintenance. Implications for both the literature on relationship maintenance and the literature on behavioral mimicry are discussed.
Effect of a Novel Coupling Agent, Polybutadiene Isocyanate, on Mechanical Properties of Wood-Fiber Polypropylene Composites
Authors: Nourbakhsh Amir , Kokta Bouhuslav V. , Ashori Alireza , Jahan-Latibari Ahmad
Published: May 2008

The scope of the present paper is to study the effect of adding a novel coupling agent, polybutadiene isocyanate (PBNCO), on the mechanical properties of hardwood aspen fiber/polypropylene (PP) composites. The resulting properties were compared to those obtained with the most commonly used coupling agent, maleic anhydride modified polypropylene (MAPP). In this study, we determined a value of 24.75 MPa for the tensile strength of pure PP and 22 MPa for the composite containing 30 or 40wt% unmodified fibers. These results indicate that wood fiber behaves merely as filler when incorporated into PP and no reinforcing effect was observed in this case. This occurs because of the chemical incompatibility between the thermoplastic PP and the polar fiber, resulting in low interfacial adhesion. However, it was verified that addition of 3% MAPP and 5% PBNCO to this formulation produced composites with better performance, since the tensile and impact properties were increased up to 30 MPa and 22 J/m2, respectively. This behavior can be attributed to the enhanced interfacial bond between reinforcing fibers and polymer matrix modified MAPP and PBNCO treatments, play a significant role in improving the mechanical properties of the composites. The increase in mechanical properties demonstrated that PBNCO is an effective coupling agent for wood fiber/PP composites.
Local Bending Containment in Sandwich Panels with Sub-surface Core Damage
Authors: Raju K.S. , Ghimire Ritesh
Published: May 2008

A simple repair technique to contain the local facesheet bending in sandwich panels with sub-surface core damage has been explored using experiments. The strategic filling of honeycomb cells in the damage region using polymeric resin has been used to repair impact/ indentation damaged sandwich panels. The effectiveness of repair was measured using edgewise compression tests. The test results indicate that the best bending containment is achieved by filling a honeycomb cell at the center of the damage region and at the periphery of the damage region along the line of potential failure. The residual strengths of repaired sandwich panels improved to 87—92% of that of the undamaged panel.
Tensile and Flexural Behavior of Sisal Fabric/Polyester Textile Composites Prepared by Resin Transfer Molding Technique
Authors: Pothan L.A. , Mai Y.W. , Thomas S. , Li R.K.Y.
Published: May 2008

Composites of woven sisal in polyester matrix using three different weave architectures: (plain, twill, and matt) were prepared using a resin transfer molding technique with special reference to the effect of resin viscosity, applied pressure, weave architecture, and fiber surface modification. More than the applied pressure, the resin viscosity, and fiber surface modification, the weave architecture was found to have maximum influence on the ultimate composite properties. The resin permeability, which is related to fiber wetting, was found to be dependent on the weave architecture and the fiber surface morphology. Sisal fibers in woven form, with a fiber volume of 32%, were found to improve the properties of polyester tremendously, irrespective of the resin used and the injection pressure. The maximum improvement in tensile strength was observed for resin with a viscosity of 420 cps. While the tensile strength showed a 32% improvement, the tensile modulus showed a 100% improvement by reinforcing fabrics with the weave architecture with maximum fibers in the loading direction, for the same resin. The flexural strength gave an improvement of 19% while the flexural modulus gave a 55% improvement. Fabrics with maximum fibers in the loading direction (matt weave) proved to be the best reinforcement to impart maximum properties. Finally, the fracture surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy to get an insight into fiber/matrix interactions.
Review Essay: The Cult of Personality
Authors: Hemmens Craig
Published: May 2008

The Supreme Court has undergone significant changes in personnel in the last few years with the death of Chief Justice Rehnquist and the retirement of Justice O'Connor. As the Court begins a new chapter under Chief Justice Roberts, several biographies of current and former justices have been published. This review essay examines three biographies of justices who played a major role in shaping the Court over the past 25 years. Justice Blackmun joined the Court in the early 1970s and wrote several major opinions, including Roe v. Wade. Justice O'Connor was the first woman on the Court, joining it in the early 1980s, and played a major role as a centrist, “swing” vote in close cases. Justice Thomas joined the Court in the late 1980s, after an incredibly contentious confirmation hearing, and has sought to undo much of the work of the modern Court.
Torture and the Fifth Amendment
Authors: Skoll Geoffrey R.
Published: May 2008

Over the past several years, military and intelligence personnel of the United States have tortured captives, gained information from others' torture of captives, or sent captives to be tortured. Even aside from statutory law and international treaties and conventions to which the United States is party, prohibition of torture by agents of the state is implicit in the very fabric of U.S. political society as embodied in the Constitution, especially the Fifth Amendment. The rights guaranteed under the Fifth Amendment derive from English common law, with its long and venerable history. Furthermore, common-law rights and protections permeate all of Anglo-American law. The Fifth Amendment plays a central role in these legal safeguards. Historical and analytic accounts of both the Fifth Amendment and torture may shed light on recent revelations of the use of torture.
Satisfied in the Jail?
Authors: Castle Tammy L.
Published: May 2008

This study investigated the predictors of job satisfaction among 373 jail correctional officers in one state in the Northeast. The research questions were guided by the plethora of literature on the workplace experiences of prison correctional officers, including the “Importation-Differential Experiences” and “Work-Role Prisonization” models. This study advances the literature on the workplace experiences of correctional officers by focusing on officers who work in a jail setting. The results indicated that for jail correctional officers in this study, a lower level of education, greater supervisory support, lower job stress and lower general stress were significant predictors of higher job satisfaction. Based on the findings, suggestions are made for future research.
Neurodegenerative Mechanisms in Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis
Authors: Hayashi Masaharu , Arai Nobutaka , Satoh Junichi , Suzuki Hisaharu , Katayama Kazunobu , Tamagawa Kimiko , Morimatsu Yoshio
Published: May 2008

Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis is caused by persistent brain infection of mutated measles virus, showing inflammation, neuronal loss, and demyelination. We neuropathologically examined six autopsy cases of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis, using in situ nick end-labeling and immunohistochemistry. Both the neurons and glial cells in the cerebral cortex showed immunoreactive nuclei in the nick end-labeling in two cases with disease duration within 2 years, whereas they were confined to the glial cells in the demyelinated cerebral white matter in three cases with disease duration ranging from 2 to 10 years. The nuclei and cytoplasm were immunoreactive for 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine and 8-hydroxyguanosine, markers of oxidative damage to DNA and ribonucleic acid, respectively, in the cerebral cortex in three cases with disease duration within 9 years. In contrast, 4-hydroxy-2-nonenal-modified proteins, products of lipid peroxidation, were deposited in the demyelinated white matters in four cases with disease duration longer than 9 years. In three cases with long survival, the expression of glial glutamate transporters was reduced in the cerebral cortex. It is speculated in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis that apoptosis and oxidative stress to DNA can contribute to the early neuronal damage, whereas lipid peroxidation and disturbed glutamate transport may be related to the subsequent neurodegeneration. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:725—730).
Contrast Sensitivity of Patients With Severe Motor and Intellectual Disabilities and Cerebral Visual Impairment
Authors: Sakai Shinya , Hirayama Kazumi , Iwasaki Syoichi , Yamadori Atsushi , Sato Naoko , Ito Aiko , Kato Mitsuhiro , Sudo Mutsuko , Tsuburaya Kenji
Published: May 2008

We attempt to evaluate the residual visual capacities of nine patients (seven males and two females; age range 4 to 35 years, mean 13.8 ± 9.98) with cerebral visual impairment coupled with severe motor and intellectual disabilities by their contrast sensitivities to sine-wave gratings. Two methods were used for detecting the occurrence of ocular responses to stimuli: (1) detection of optokinetic nystagmus to drifting sinusoidal gratings by naked-eye observation and electronystagmography and (2) detection of ocular pursuit for a drifting Gabor patch by naked-eye observation. We succeeded in measuring the sensitivities of eight cases. For the remaining one case, only the Gabor method could be applied. Most cases showed low contrast sensitivity in both higher (2 and 4 cycles/degree) and lower (0.125 and 0.25 cycles/degree) spatial frequencies and relatively high contrast sensitivity in the middle (0.5 and 1 cycle/degree) range of spatial frequencies. We conclude that the residual visual capacities of patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities and cerebral visual impairment can be measured fairly accurately by these behavioral methods. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:731—737).
Tourette Syndrome Associated With Body Temperature Dysregulation: Possible Involvement of an Idiopathic Hypothalamic Disorder
Authors: Kessler Abraham R.
Published: May 2008

Tourette syndrome is a neuropsychiatric disorder that holds the potential to afflict the emotional, familial, social, or scholastic performances of patients with Tourette syndrome in day-to-day life functioning. The disorder is today characterized mainly and diagnosed by clinical observations, yet false-negative results obtained in the diagnosis of Tourette syndrome are numerous and well documented. There is still no laboratory or imaging technique available for the diagnosis of Tourette syndrome. This article reports on changes of the ambient thermal perception (38%) and a circadian dysregulation of the body-temperature profile present in Tourette syndrome probands, irrespective of their chronologic age, sex, or comorbid symptoms. An involvement of idiopathic hypothalamic dysfunctions associated with Tourette syndrome is proposed. Such a phenomenon, if substantiated, could lead to a better understanding of Tourette syndrome and the development of unbiased physical diagnostic criteria of Tourette syndrome and potentiate possible production of novel therapeutic possibilities. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:738—744).
Long-Term Findings on Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Acute Encephalopathy With Bilateral Striatal Necrosis Associated With Measles
Authors: Voudris Konstantinos A. , Skardoutsou Angeliki , Hasiotou Maria , Theodoropoulos Basilis , Vagiakou Eleni A.
Published: May 2008

The long-term findings on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a 710/12-year-old boy with a history of acute encephalopathy with bilateral striatal necrosis following measles at the age of 22 months are described. At the early stage of illness, brain MRI studies revealed bilateral, symmetric basal ganglia lesions, predominant on the globi pallidi, appearing as hyperintense signals on T1- and T2-weighted images. Six years later, follow-up brain MRI studies showed that the bilateral, symmetric lesions on the globi pallidi persisted with low signal on T1- and high signal on T 2weighted images. At present, the patient has some persistent neurologic signs. These findings suggest that both clinical and neuroradiologic findings may persist in children with acute encephalopathy with bilateral striatal necrosis following measles. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:776—777).
Intractable Epilepsy With Ring Chromosome 20 Syndrome Treated With Vagal Nerve Stimulation: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Chawla Jasvinder , Sucholeiki Roy , Jones Carolyn , Silver Kenneth
Published: May 2008

We report a case of a 6-year old girl with ring chromosome 20 syndrome whose medically intractable seizures were successfully treated with vagal nerve stimulation therapy. Medically intractable seizures are an expected part of this rare syndrome, and the dramatic improvement in seizure control with vagal nerve stimulation is emphasized. Earlier use of vagal nerve stimulation in similar cases should be considered. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:778—780).
Value of Neuroimaging in the Evaluation of Neurologically Normal Children With Recurrent Headache
Authors: Alehan Füsun Korkmaz
Published: May 2008

Headache is one of the most frequent physical complaints in children. Although headaches in children are generally benign, neuroimaging studies are frequently performed in clinical practice for the fear of missing a serious underlying disease. Despite this, limited data exist about the utility of neuroimaging in recurrent headache of children with a normal neurologic examination. This prospective study was planned to determine the value of neuroimaging in neurologically normal children with migraine and tension-type headache. Among 95 consecutive patients presenting with headache, 72 patients receiving a diagnosis of migraine or tension-type headache were included in the study. Neuroimaging procedures were performed in 83%. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was abnormal in 11 of 49 cases. Abnormalities consisted of foci of gliosis in four, sinusitis in two, pineal cyst in one, periventricular leukomalacia in one, arachnoid cyst in one, old traumatic changes in one, and cervical syrinx in one. Two of the 11 computed tomographic (CT) scans revealed sinus disease. The percentage of findings causally related to headache was about 10. None of the patients had undergone surgery because of neuroimaging results. In conclusion, the yield of neuroimaging in recurrent headaches of children with a normal neurologic examination is low, and neuroimaging should not be part of a routine initial examination of these patients. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:807—809).
Supratentorial Tuber Location and Autism in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex
Authors: Walz Nicolay Chertkoff , Byars Anna Weber , Egelhoff John C. , Franz David Neal
Published: May 2008

The high rate of autism in tuberous sclerosis complex provides an opportunity to study the pathogenesis of autism. This study investigated the relationship between a DSM-IV diagnosis of autism and tuber location in a sample of 50 individuals with tuberous sclerosis complex. Chi-square analyses revealed no differences between individuals with autism ( n = 15) and those without autism ( n = 35) on the occurrence of tubers in the right or left frontal, occipital, parietal, or temporal regions. There were no differences between the two groups in the occurrence of tubers in subcortical or cortical regions. In the largest sample to date, these results fail to support the hypothesis that supratentorial tuber location is a marker for autism. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:830—832).
Homocystinuria Presenting as Psychosis in an Adolescent
Authors: Ryan Monique M. , Sidhu Reet K. , Alexander Jay , Megerian J. Thomas
Published: May 2008

Homocystinuria usually presents with ectopia lentis, mental retardation, thromboembolic complications, and skeletal abnormalities. Whereas neuropsychiatric abnormalities are often recognized in untreated homocystinuria, initial presentation with acute psychosis has only rarely been reported. We describe a previously well 17-year-old adolescent with an acute psychosis characterized by auditory and visual hallucinations and marked paranoia who was found to have pyridoxine-responsive homocystinuria. His mental state normalized within several weeks of inception of pyridoxine and antipsychotic therapy. Pyridoxine-responsive homocystinuria is commonly missed on neonatal screens and should be recognized as a potentially treatable cause of acute psychosis in childhood and adolescence. ( J Child Neurol 2002; 17: 859—860).
Efficacy of Methylphenidate in Patients With Cerebral Palsy and Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Gross-Tsur Varda , Shalev Ruth S. , Badihi Navah , Manor Orly
Published: May 2008

Our objective was to study the short-term efficacy and safety of methylphenidate in patients with the dual diagnosis of cerebral palsy and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Twenty-nine patients (8.0 ± 4.0 years old) with cerebral palsy and ADHD completed the study. In a prospective, crossover, double-blind paradigm, patients were treated with methylphenidate or placebo, each for 4 weeks. Parents and teachers completed a modified Abbreviated Conners' Rating Scale at the beginning of the study and the end of the first and second months of treatment with methylphenidate or placebo. Parents were contacted weekly to report side effects. Methylphenidate treatment, as assessed by teachers' ratings, resulted in a significant improvement in ADHD symptomatology ( t = 2.29, df = 27, P < .05); however, a trend for improvement was noted only on the parents' ratings. After the conclusion of the study, 12 patients continued methylphenidate for 20 ± 10 months. Side effects were minimal, with the exception of transient hallucinations in one patient. In children with cerebral palsy and ADHD, methylphenidate is effective, rendering it a valuable adjunct to their overall medical therapy. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:863—866).
Practical Aspects of Conducting Large-Scale Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies in Children
Authors: Byars Anna Weber , Holland Scott K. , Strawsburg Richard H. , Bommer Wendy , Dunn R. Scott , Schmithorst Vince J. , Plante Elena
Published: May 2008

The potential benefits of functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the investigation of normal development have been limited by difficulties in its use with children. We describe the practical aspects, including failure rates, involved in conducting large-scale functional MRI studies with normal children. Two hundred and nine healthy children between the ages of 5 and 18 years participated in a functional MRI study of language development. Reliable activation maps were obtained across the age range. Younger children had significantly higher failure rates than older children and adolescents. It is concluded that it is feasible to conduct large-scale functional MRI studies of children as young as 5 years old. These findings can be used by other research groups to guide study design and plans for recruitment of young subjects. ( J Child Neurol 2002;17:885—889).
Lesion Burden and Cognitive Morbidity in Children With Sickle Cell Disease
Authors: Schatz Jeffrey , White Desiree A. , Moinuddin Asif , Armstrong Melissa , DeBaun Michael R.
Published: May 2008

The effect of increased tissue injury in children with sickle cell disease and silent cerebral infarcts is not known. We determined the relationship between the extent of injury and IQ scores in children with silent cerebral infarcts. Participants were 27 children with sickle cell disease who had received magnetic resonance imaging. Children were divided into three groups: group 1, small lesion volume ( n = 9, < 6.8 cm3); group 2, large lesion volume ( n = 9; > 6.8 cm3); and group 3, no cerebral infarcts ( n = 9). The Wechsler Full-Scale IQ was significantly lower for group 2 (mean = 76.1) when compared with group 1 (mean = 87.7) or group 3 (mean = 89.9). In children with silent cerebral infarcts, large tissue loss is associated with lower Wechsler Full-Scale IQ and small tissue loss is associated with no apparent change in IQ compared with children with no cerebral infarcts. The progressive accumulation of silent infarcts may lead to poorer intellectual functioning. ( J Child Neurol 2002; 17: 890—894).