bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of PET/CT Findings and Histopathology after Neoadjuvant Therapy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Poettgen Christoph , Theegarten Dirk , Eberhardt Wilfried , Levegruen Sabine , Gauler Thomas , Krbek Thomas , Stamatis Georgios , Teschler Helmut , Kuehl Hilmar , Bockisch Andreas , Stuschke Martin
Published: May 2008

Objectives: Prediction of histopathological response with PET/CT scans after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy is limited by confounding factors which have been evaluated in this analysis. Methods:18F-2-fluoro-2-deoxy-D-glucose (FDG)-PET/CT findings [standard uptake value (SUV), residual tumor volume] were correlated with histopathological parameters of the resection specimens (tumor cell density, necrosis, scar, macrophage infiltration) in patients with locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer (stage IIIA/IIIB) after neoadjuvant induction chemotherapy (platinum-based doublet) and concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cisplatin/vinorelbine/45 Gy). Results: Sixty patients [40 male/20 female, median age 56 years (34–78)] completed induction therapy, 46 patients (stage IIIA/IIIB: 16/30; squamous cell carcinoma 41%, adenocarcinoma 48%, large cell carcinoma 11%) were resected. Pathologic complete response of the primary tumor was observed in 19 patients (41%) with a broad range of SUVmean (0.4–9.8, mean 3.0) after neoadjuvant therapy. A high rate of histopathological complete remissions (44%) was observed in tumors with a postinduction SUV >2.5 and volumes larger than the median (7.9 cm3) before resection. SUVmean was positively correlated with the macrophage score (r = 0.39, p = 0.007) and tumor cell density (r = 0.32, p = 0.03). Conclusions: These observations suggest that postinduction FDG uptake should be interpreted with caution in larger residual tumor volumes, since high SUV levels may be due to macrophage infiltration and not viable tumor tissue.
Imatinib Mesylate Treatment for Advanced Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor: A Pilot Study Focusing on Patients Experiencing Sole Liver Metastasis after a Prior Radical Resection
Authors: Zhu Jiang , Wang Yan , Hou Mei , Li Hui Yan , Zhang Jie
Published: May 2008

Background: About 80% of patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) experience tumor recurrence or metastasis after a prior radical resection, and the most common metastatic site is the liver. Imatinib mesylate has been proven to be effective in advanced GIST. The current pilot study was designed to observe imatinib mesylate treatment for GIST patients who experienced sole liver metastasis after primary tumor resection. Methods: From June 2004 to July 2005, 21 patients who met the eligibility criteria were enrolled in this study. They were administered Glivec® at an initial dose of 400 mg/day. The primary end points were grade 3–4 hematological or non-hematological toxicity and progression-free survival; the secondary end points were response rate and overall survival. Results: Edema was the most common toxicity, whereas grade 3 and 4 side effects were rare. The overall response rate was 52.4%. Only 1 patient died in the course of the study; the 2-year progression-free and overall survival rates were 85.7 and 95.2%, respectively. Conclusions: Imatinib mesylate treatment proved safe and effective for GIST patients who had liver metastasis alone. A prolonged survival was observed, and long-term follow-up is still continued.
Gastrin-Releasing Peptide Receptor Expression in Cervical Cancer
Authors: Cornelio Daniela Baumann , Meurer Luise , Roesler Rafael , Schwartsmann Gilberto
Published: May 2008

Objectives: It was the aim of this study to evaluate whether cervical neoplasms and adjacent tissues express the gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR) and whether there is a significant difference in its distribution among preinvasive and invasive cancers. Methods: Sections of paraffin-embedded cervical tumors (n = 88) and non-neoplastic control cervical tissues (n = 14) obtained from women registered in the Pathology Department, Academic Hospital, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, Brazil, were investigated by immunohistochemistry for GRPR. Results: GRPR was detected in 99% of tumor specimens, mostly exhibiting a diffuse strong staining. The receptors were seldom detected in the endocervices, while ectocervices expressed GRPRs only when adjacent to neoplastic lesions. No correlation between GRPR expression and preinvasive and invasive neoplasms was found. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the widespread GRPR expression in human cervical cancer. The presence of receptors both in tumors and surrounding tissues may suggest that GRPR can play a role in the cervical carcinogenic process. These data provide a molecular basis for exploiting GRPR as a target for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in cervical neoplasms.
Molecular defects in alkaptonuria
Authors: Gehrig A. , Schmidt S.R. , Müller C.R. , Srsen S. , Srsnova K. , Kress W.
Published: May 2008

At the dawn of human genetics Sir Archibald Garrod used alkaptonuria as a paradigm to demonstrate the applicability of the Mendelian laws to men and to develop the concept of inborn errors of metabolism. The human cDNA for homogentisate 1,2 dioxygenase was identified due to its homology to the corresponding mouse enzyme and was screened for mutations in alkaptonuric patients from Slovakia. Homozygous mutations were found in four unrelated families and their segregation with the disease was demonstrated. One of the mutations, observed in two families, leads to a frame-shift and thus is unlikely to produce functional protein. The data formally establish the homogentisate 1,2 dioxygenase gene (HGD) as the molecular cause of alkaptonuria and allow for the development of molecular carrier tests in populations at risk.
Mapping of the 8q 12 translocation breakpoint to a 40-kb region in a pleomorphic adenoma with an ins(8;3)(q12;p21.3p14.1)
Authors: Röijer E. , Kas K. , Van de Ven W. , Stenman G.
Published: May 2008

The translocation t(3;8)(p21;q12) is the most common chromosome abnormality observed in pleomorphic adenomas of the salivary glands. In this paper we describe the physical mapping of the breakpoints in an adenoma with a variant t(3;8), viz., an ins(8;3)(q12;p21.3p14.1). Using sequence-tagged sites (STSs) corresponding to landmarks within a previously identified yeast artificial chromosome (YAC) spanning the breakpoint in adenomas with t(3;8), cosmids were isolated from a chromosome 8-specific cosmid library. The 8q12 insertion breakpoint was mapped by FISH to a 300-kb region flanked by MOS and a new STS, CH129. A cosmid within this region was shown to span the breakpoint. To test whether the recently identified FHIT gene, which maps to 3p14.2, was disrupted by the 3p rearrangement, we also isolated an FHIT YAC and mapped this YAC by FISH distal to the most proximal 3p breakpoint. In addition, RT-PCR analysis revealed only a normal-sized FHIT transcript, suggesting that FHIT is not affected by the 3;8-rearrangement.
Topoisomerase II inhibition in mitosis produces numerical and structural chromosomal aberrations in human fibroblasts
Authors: Cimini D. , Antoccia A. , Tanzarella C. , Degrassi F.
Published: May 2008

We investigated the effects of treatment of mitotic human fibroblasts with the topoisomerase II inhibitor etoposide (VP-16) on chromosome segregation at anaphase and the genetic consequence to daughter cells of topoisomerase inhibition during mitosis. The most striking effect of VP-16 treatment during mitosis was the production of anaphase cells with several entangled chromosomes (catenated anaphase cells). To analyze the effects of sister chromatid catenation at anaphase on the daughter cells, several interphase methodologies were applied to binucleated human fibroblasts that were blocked during cytokinesis. Post-treatment of mitotic cells with the cytokinesis inhibitor cytochalasin-B maintains the reciprocal products of a mitotic division in the same cytoplasm, allowing the distribution of whole chromosomes or chromosome fragments in daughter nuclei or micronuclei to be followed. The presence of micronuclei containing kinetochores, as detected by antikinetochore staining, suggested that VP-16 treatment during mitosis induces chromosome loss in binucleated fibroblasts. Induction of aneuploid cells for chromosomes 7 and 11 was observed by double in situ hybridization using chromosome-specific alphoid probes in binucleated fibroblasts. In addition, double in situ hybridization with adjacent alphoid and classical satellite DNA probes to chromosome 1 demonstrated that both numerical and structural aberrations contribute to the genetic effects of topoisomerase II inhibition in mitosis.
Isolation and mapping of karyopherin α3 (KPNA3), a human gene that is highly homologous to genes encoding Xenopus importin, yeast SRP1 and human RCH1
Authors: Takeda S. , Fujiwara T. , Shimizu F. , Kawai A. , Shinomiya K. , Okuno S. , Ozaki K. , Katagiri T. , Shimada Y. , Nagata M. , Watanabe T. , Takaichi A. , Kuga Y. , Suzuki M. , Hishigaki H. , Takahashi E. , Shin S. , Nakamura Y. , Hirai Y.
Published: May 2008

From a human fetal-brain cDNA library, we isolated and characterized a novel gene (KPNA3) encoding a protein highly homologous to certain nuclear transport proteins of Xenopus and human. The complete cDNA clone, designatedkaryopherin α3, contained an open reading frame of 1,563nucleotides encoding 521 amino acids. The predicted aminoacid sequence showed 48 %, 45 % and 48 % identity with Xenopus importin, yeast SRP1 and human RCH1, respectively. Thesimilarities among these proteins suggest that karyopherin α3 may be involved in the nuclear transport system. Eight repeats of the arm motif were well conserved among these proteins. The N-terminal region of the predicted karyopherin α3 product was highly basic and the C-terminal region was strongly acidic. A 4.3-kb transcript was expressed in all adult human tissues examined by Northern blotting. The cDNA clone was assigned to chromosome band 13q14.3 by fluorescence in situ hybridization.
Minibrain (MNBH) is a single copy gene mapping to human chromosome 21q22.2
Authors: Guimera J. , Pritchard M. , Nadal M. , Estivill X.
Published: May 2008

We have identified a human homologue of the Drosophila mnb gene (MNBH) on chromosome 21, while another study mapped an EST clone (R38268) with similarity to minibrain to human chromosome 1. This report describes the mapping of MNBH to a single locus on human chromosome 21q22.2 by FISH and Southern blotting. Comparison of the similarities between the two sequences and mnb demonstrates that MNBH on chromosome 21 is the true human homologue of Drosophila mnb.
cDNA cloning, expression and chromosome mapping of the human STAT4 gene: both STAT4 and STAT1 genes are mapped to 2q32.2→q32.3
Authors: Yamamoto K. , Kobayashi H. , Arai A. , Miura O. , Hirosawa S. , Miyasaka N.
Published: May 2008

Studies of transcriptional activation by interferons and a variety of cytokines have led to the identification of a family of proteins that serve as signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT). STAT4 is phosphorylated following interleukin (IL)-12 stimulation and is essential for IL-12 signal transduction. The human STAT4 cDNA was cloned, and both STAT4 and STAT1 genes were mapped to human chromosome bands 2q32.2→q32.3 by fluorescence in situ hybridization. These results suggest that STAT4 and STAT1 may have arisen via a tandem gene duplication. However, human STAT1 is expressed ubiquitously, whereas human STAT4 is expressed in several tissues including spleen, heart, brain, peripheral blood cells, and testis.
X chromosome evolution in the suni and eland antelope: detection of homologous regions by fluorescence in situ hybridization and G-banding
Authors: Robinson T.J. , Harrison W.R. , Ponce de León A. , Elder F.F.B.
Published: May 2008

Comparative cytogenetics and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were used to track structural rearrangements in the X chromosomes of two African antelope species, the eland (Taurotragus oryx; tribe Tragelaphini) and the suni (Neotragus moschatus; tribe Neotragini). Using two microdissected cattle chromosome painting probes (one specific for Xp-containing sequences corresponding to Xp24→p12 of the cattle X, and one specific for Xq-containing sequences corresponding to Xq12→qter), we show that intrachromosomal rearrangements distinguish the X chromosomes of these species. Furthermore, there is clear evidence that, superimposed on this background of intrachromosomal evolutionary change, the sequences contained in the cattle Xp painting probe appear to have moved as a complete unit during the repatteming of the bovid X. Although we are unable to infer the order of the rearranged chromosomal segments, given the large regions of homology detected by the chromosome paints, we nonetheless believe that this approach (combining conventional and molecular cytogenetic studies on the X chromosome) will prove useful for inferring phylogenetic relationships in the family Bovidae, particularly as more probes become available.
Assignment of Chinese hamster p53 gene (TP53) to chromosome band 2p31 a region not involved in the karyotypic changes of a tumorigenic cell line
Authors: Vatteroni L. , Musio A. , Meneveri R. , Rainaldi G.
Published: May 2008

The Chinese hamster tumor-derived cell line 835T2 exhibits specific karyotypic changes, including the loss and/or translocation of genetic material. To investigate whether the p53 tumor suppressor gene was involved in the exchanges, cDNA from primary Chinese hamster cells was isolated by using sense and antisense primers of the human p53 gene. The cDNA was sequenced, and the sequence was compared with the Syrian and human p53 cDNA reported sequences. The sequence homology was very elevated, demonstrating that the cloned fragment contained part of the Chinese hamster p53 gene. The corresponding genomic fragment was also cloned and used as a biotin-labeled probe for in situ hybridization on Chinese hamster chromosome spreads. Hybridization was visualized by avidin-FITC, and the assignment was done comparing the banding obtained with BamHI restriction enzyme and the location of the fluorescent signals pattern of the same metaphase. The signals revealed that the p53 gene (TP53) is localized on Chinese hamster chromosome band 2p31, which is not involved in the karyotypic changes specific to the 835T2 cell line.
Comparative analysis of Y chromosome structure in Bos taurus and B. indicus by FISH using region-specific, microdissected, and locus-specific DNA probes
Authors: Goldammer T. , Brunner R.M. , Schwerin M.
Published: May 2008

Results of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of Bos taurus and B. indicus Y chromosomes using the bovine locus-specific Y probes BC1.2 and λES6.0 and region-specific probes of B. indicus and B. taurus Y chromosomes, which were generated by microdissection and DOP-PCR, indicate that the Y chromosomes of B. indicus (BIN Y) and B. taurus (BTA Y) differ by a pericentric inversion. Parts of the short and long arms of the Y chromosome in B. taurus and the distal half of the Y chromosome in B. indicus were microdissected, amplified by DOP-PCR, biotinylated, and rehybridized in situ to the corresponding metaphase chromosomes to test the chromosome fragment specificity of the DNA probes. The region-specific painting probes were used for hybridization to metaphase chromosomes of the other species. The DNA painting probes BTA Yp12 and BTA Yq12.1-ter derived from BTA Y hybridized to the distal and proximal halves of BIN Y, respectively. Complex hybridization signals on BTA Yq12.1→qter were generated with the DNA probe BIN Yqcen-centr (centromere-central) after FISH. The results demonstrate that BTA Yp is homologous to the distal half of BIN Y and that BTA Yq corresponds to the proximal part of BIN Yq. Hybridization of the Y chromosome-specific DNA probes λES6.0 to BTA Yp12→p11 and near to the telomere of BIN Y and BC1.2 to BTA Yq12→q13 and to the telomere of BIN Y indicate an opposite orientation of the homologous chromosome fragments BTA Yp and of the distal half of BIN Yq.
Shared synteny between human chromosome 10 and chromosome 1 of the marsupial tammar wallaby, Macropus eugenii
Authors: Spurdle A.B. , Maccarone P. , Toder R. , Wilcox S.A. , Graves J.A.M.
Published: May 2008

Marsupial homologs of the human chromosome 10 loci IL2RA, HK1 and PLAU have been cloned and mapped by fluorescence in situ hybridization to chromosome 1q of the tammar wallaby, Macropus eugenii. Relative distance measurements of the hybridization signals on M. eugenii chromosome 1 show that marsupial homologs of human (HSA) 10p IL2RA and 10q HK1/PLAU flank the marsupial homologs of the human 5q gene IL5 and the human 15q imprinted genes SNRPN and ZNF127. The shared synteny, therefore, does not necessarily mean that HSA 10 represents an ancestral grouping; rather, it suggests that HSA 10p and HSA lOq represent two different ancestral mammalian units which fused directly in primates and were incorporated independently into two different regions of the same chromosome in marsupials.
Isolation, characterization and chromosomal localization of human WNT10B
Authors: Hardiman G. , Kastelein R.A. , Bazan J.F.
Published: May 2008

The Wnt family constitutes a set of structurally related glycoproteins that have been implicated in oncogenesis and developmental processes. The vertebrate Wnt10 family includes mouse, Xenopus and salamander proteins. We undertook a bioinformatics based approach to characterize a novel human Wnt gene. The gene (WNT10B) encodes a 389-amino acid protein with 96.6% sequence identity to mouse Wnt10b. The expression pattern of WNT10B reveals that it is synthesized in many adult tissues with the highest levels found in heart and skeletal muscle. WNT10B expression was also detected in several human cancer cell lines with elevated mRNA levels observed in HeLa (cervical cancer) cells. WNT10B was localized to 12q13.1 by PCR typing of a human/rodent monochromosomal panel and fluorescent in situ hybridization.
The human chromosome 3 gene cluster ACY1-CACNA1D-ZNF64-ATP2B2 is evolutionarily conserved in Ateles paniscus chamek (Platyrrhini, Primates)
Authors: Seuánez H.N. , Lachtermacher M. , Canavez F.C. , Moreira M.A.M.
Published: May 2008

Comparative mapping of Ateles paniscus chamek and man indicated that four human 3p markers are syntenic in this karyotypically rearranged neotropical primate. The evolutionary conservation of this gene cluster includes three adjacent human shortest regions of overlap (SROs): 3p21.1 (ACY1), 3p21.3→p21.2 (CACNA1D), and 3p21.3 (ZNF64). A fourth syntenic marker (ATP2B2), at a more distal human SRO (3p26→p25), indicated that human 3pter→p14 is evolutionarily conserved in Ateles chromosome 3 (APC 3). Conversely, allocations of two human 3q markers (AGTRl and IL12A) clearly excluded APC 3. Finally, allocation of the major histocompatibility complex class I genes further confirmed human 6p-6q dissociations in Ateles.
The two human organic cation transporter genes SLC22A1 and SLC22A2 are located on chromosome 6q26
Authors: Koehler M.R. , Wissinger B. , Gorboulev V. , Koepsell H. , Schmid M.
Published: May 2008

Polyspecific transporters for organic cations (OCT) belong to a new protein family which also include organic anion transporters. The first human transporters from this family (OCT1, OCT2) have been recently cloned. They translocate small cations like tetraethylammonium, choline and monoamine neurotransmitters and are involved in hepatic and renal cation excretion, respectively. We have localized the OCT1 and OCT2 genes (SLC22A1, SLC22A2) on chromosome 6q26.
Fluorescence in situ hybridization mapping of the α and β subunits (HADHA and HADHB) of human mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation multienzyme complex to 2p23 and their evolution
Authors: Aoyama T. , Wakui K. , Orii K.E. , Hashimoto T. , Fukushima Y.
Published: May 2008

Mitochondrial fatty acid β-oxidation multienzyme complex/trifunctional protein has an α4β4 structure and catalyzes the second through fourth reactions of the fatty acid β-oxidation cycle. The α and β subunits (HADHA and HADHB) are members of the enoyl-CoA hydratase/3-hy-droxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase and 3-ketoacyl-CoA thiolase families, respectively. We analyzed the localization of each of these two genes (HADHA and HADHB) by in situ hybridization and found that both can be assigned to human chromosome band 2p23. Since the distance between the two loci is quite short, the two genes seem to exist side by side, as do the two (A and B subunit) genes of the bacterial fatty acid β-oxidation multienzyme complex. This is an important and interesting finding in that two entirely different genes, encoding two independent proteins forming a multienzyme complex, are adjacent on chromosome band 2p23.
Mapping of 34 minisatellite loci resolved by two-dimensional DNA typing
Authors: Børglum A.D. , Nyegaard M. , Kvistgaard A.B. , Mullaart E. , Uitterlinden A.G. , Vijg J. , Kruse T.A.
Published: May 2008

Two-dimensional (2-D) DNA typing is based on electrophoretic separation of genomic DNA fragments in two dimensions according to independent criteria (size and base-pair sequence), followed by hybridization analysis using multilocus probes. The technique allows simultaneous visualization of several hundred loci as spots in a 2-D pattern. The majority of the loci resolved are polymorphic. Using linkage analysis in a large CEPH family, this study reports the mapping of 34 loci detected by the minisatellite core probe 33.6. By multipoint linkage analysis, regional chromosome positions of the 33.6 loci could be deduced, showing no evidence of clustering. In the analysis of spot patterns, use was made of a computerized image analysis system specifically designed for 2-D DNA typing. Since experimental variations between different separation patterns were automatically corrected for with this program, rapid and reliable scorings could be obtained. The results presented demonstrate the availability of reliable genetic information throughout the 2-D separation pattern. Adding the use of semiautomated computerized pattern analysis, this study further substantiates the applicability of 2-D DNA typing in genome scanning, not only in theoretical but also in practical terms. Moreover, it can be anticipated that this method will have a specific advantage in studies that scan for trinucleotide repeat expansions and somatic instability, where the repeat sequences detected by appropriate core probes are of particular interest.
A Specific CD36-Dependent Signaling Pathway Is Required for Platelet Activation by Oxidized Low-Density Lipoprotein
Authors: Chen Kan , Febbraio Maria , Li Wei , Silverstein Roy L.
Published: May 2008

Platelet hyperactivity associated with hyperlipidemia may contribute to development of a prothrombotic state. We previously showed that oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) formed in the setting of hyperlipidemia and atherosclerosis activated platelets in a CD36-dependent manner. We now show that mitogen-activated protein kinase c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK)2 and its upstream activator MKK4 were phosphorylated in platelets exposed to oxLDL. Using
apoE
−/−
mice as a model of hyperlipidemia, we showed that JNK was constitutively phosphorylated in platelets in a CD36-dependent manner. Inhibition of src kinase activity reduced JNK phosphorylation by oxLDL. Immunoprecipitations revealed that active phosphorylated forms of src kinases Fyn and Lyn were recruited to CD36 in platelets exposed to oxLDL. Pharmacological inhibition of the mitogen-activated protein kinase JNK or src family kinases abolished platelet activation by oxLDL in vitro. Using a murine carotid artery thrombosis model we demonstrated CD36-dependent phosphorylation of platelet JNK within thrombi. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of JNK prolonged thrombosis times in wild-type but not
cd36
-null mice in vivo. These findings suggest that a specific CD36-dependent signaling pathway is required for platelet activation by oxLDL and may provide insights related to development of novel antiplatelet therapies more relevant to atherothrombosis than to normal hemostasis.
Chronic Apoptosis of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells Accelerates Atherosclerosis and Promotes Calcification and Medial Degeneration
Authors: Clarke Murray C.H. , Littlewood Trevor D. , Figg Nichola , Maguire Janet J. , Davenport Anthony P. , Goddard Martin , Bennett Martin R.
Published: May 2008

Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) accumulation is implicated in plaque development. In contrast, VSMC apoptosis is implicated in plaque rupture, coagulation, vessel remodeling, medial atrophy, aneurysm formation, and calcification. Although VSMC apoptosis accompanies multiple pathologies, there is little proof of direct causality, particularly with the low levels of VSMC apoptosis seen in vivo. Using a mouse model of inducible VSMC–specific apoptosis, we demonstrate that low-level VSMC apoptosis during either atherogenesis or within established plaques of apolipoprotein (Apo)E
−/−
mice accelerates plaque growth by two-fold, associated with features of plaque vulnerability including a thin fibrous cap and expanded necrotic core. Chronic VSMC apoptosis induced development of calcified plaques in younger animals and promoted calcification within established plaques. In addition, VSMC apoptosis induced medial expansion, associated with increased elastic lamina breaks, and abnormal matrix deposition reminiscent of cystic medial necrosis in humans. VSMC apoptosis prevented outward remodeling associated with atherosclerosis resulting in marked vessel stenosis. We conclude that VSMC apoptosis is sufficient to accelerate atherosclerosis, promote plaque calcification and medial degeneration, prevent expansive remodeling, and promote stenosis in atherosclerosis.
A Polarimetric Radar Forward Operator for Model Evaluation
Authors: Pfeifer M. , Craig G. C. , Hagen M. , Keil C.
Published: May 2008

A polarimetric radar forward operator has been developed as a tool for the systematic evaluation of microphysical parameterization schemes in high-resolution numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. The application of such a forward operator allows a direct comparison of the model simulations to polarimetric radar observations. While the comparison of observed and synthetic reflectivity gives information on the quality of quantitative precipitation forecasts, the information from the polarimetric quantities allows for a direct evaluation of the capacity of the NWP model to realistically describe the processes involved in the formation and interactions of the hydrometeors and, hence, the performance of the microphysical parameterization scheme. This information is expected to be valuable for detecting systematic model errors and hence improve model physics. This paper summarizes the technical characteristics of the synthetic polarimetric radar (SynPolRad). Different polarimetric radar quantities are computed from model forecasts using a T-matrix scattering code and ice phase hydrometeors are explicitly considered. To do so, the sensitivities of the scattering processes to the microphysical characteristics of different ice hydrometeors are investigated using sensitivity studies. Furthermore, beam propagation effects are considered, including attenuation and beam bending. The performance of SynPolRad and the consistence of the assumptions made in the derivation of the input parameters are illustrated in a case study. The resulting synthetic quantities as well as hydrometeor classification are compared with observations and are shown to be consistent with the model assumptions.
Diagnosing the Intercept Parameter for Exponential Raindrop Size Distribution Based on Video Disdrometer Observations: Model Development
Authors: Zhang Guifu , Xue Ming , Cao Qing , Dawson Daniel
Published: May 2008

The exponential distribution N(D) = N0 exp(−ΛD) with a fixed intercept parameter N0 is most commonly used to represent raindrop size distribution (DSD) in rainfall estimation and in single-moment bulk microphysics parameterization schemes. Disdrometer observations show that the intercept parameter is far from constant and systematically depends on the rain type and intensity. In this study, a diagnostic relation of N0 as a function of rainwater content W is derived based on two-dimensional video disdrometer (2DVD) measurements. The data reveal a clear correlation between N0 and W in which N0 increases as W increases. To minimize the effects of sampling error, a relation between two middle moments is used to derive the N0–W relation. This diagnostic relation has the potential to improve rainfall estimation and bulk microphysics parameterizations. A parameterization scheme for warm rain processes based on the diagnostic N0 DSD model is formulated and presented. The diagnostic N0-based parameterization scheme yields less evaporation and accretion for stratiform rain than that using fixed N0.
Comparing Reanalyses Using Analysis Increment Statistics
Authors: Fitzmaurice Jean , Bras Rafael L.
Published: May 2008

Reanalysis data are an important source of information for hydrometeorology applications, which use data assimilation to combine an imperfect atmospheric model with uncertain observations. However, uncertainty estimates are not normally provided with reanalyses. The model “first guess” (6-h forecast) is sometimes saved along with reanalysis estimates, which allows the calculation of the analysis increment (AI), defined as the analysis minus the model first guess. Analysis increment statistics could provide a quantitative index for comparing models in regions with sufficient observations. Monthly analysis increment statistics for the NCEP–NCAR Global Reanalysis 1 (NCEP-R1) and the NCEP/Department of Energy Global Reanalysis 2 (NCEP-R2) are computed for a North American and South American location for zonal and meridional wind and specific humidity at three atmospheric levels for 1998–2001. NCEP-R2 specific humidity was found to have a smaller mean monthly standard deviation of the analysis increment than NCEP-R1 at the North American location at the 300-mb level. The NCEP-R2 specific humidity monthly standard deviation at the South American location is much larger than NCEP-R1 for September–November 1998, which may be related to the transition to La Niña. For both zonal and meridional wind, the monthly AI standard deviations are similar for NCEP-R1 and NCEP-R2 at all atmospheric levels for the North American location. The South American location exhibits similar behavior for the wind AI statistics as for specific humidity: NCEP-R2 has a much larger monthly standard deviation of the AI for September–November 1998. The analysis increment statistics could be one method for quantitatively comparing reanalyses. First guess information should be available to the user in reanalysis archives.
Investors in People and training in the British SME sector
Authors: Hoque Kim , Bacon Nicolas
Published: May 2008

Successive UK governments have encouraged small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to pursue Investors in People (IiP) recognition in order to increase levels of employer-provided training in the sector. Using data from the 1998 and 2004 Workplace Employment Relations Surveys, this article reports the extent of change in the proportion of workplaces in small, medium and large firms with IiP recognition and assesses the relationship between IiP and training activity. The analysis reveals an increase in the proportion of workplaces in medium-sized firms with recognition but no increase in the proportion of workplaces in small or large firms with recognition. With regard to the relationship between IiP and training activity, a positive association is found in large firms where both managers/ professionals and non-managers are concerned. In medium-sized firms, however, IiP is only associated with higher levels of non-management training, and in small firms, it is only associated with higher levels of management/professional training.
Accounting for the `dark side' of new organizational forms: The case of healthcare professionals
Authors: Currie Graeme , Finn Rachael , Martin Graham
Published: May 2008

Our study responds to a call for research to integrate institutional, organizational and individual levels of analysis in examining the implications for work and employment relations of new organizational forms. We empirically examine the implementation of network forms of genetics healthcare delivery that cross organizational and professional boundaries. We highlight that less powerful professional groups may find difficulty in enacting boundary-spanning roles associated with new organizational forms. This is due, first, to inconsistency of government policy, which fragments organizations. Second, professional institutions sustain professional hierarchy and power differentials.
On ethics and social responsibility: The impact of materialism, postmaterialism, and hope
Authors: Giacalone Robert A. , Jurkiewicz Carole L. , Deckop John R.
Published: May 2008

This study tests a refined materialism—postmaterialism scale, concomitant with a measure of hope, toward the end of predicting ethics and social responsibility concerns in individuals. Results indicate that this interactive model including hope, materialism and postmaterialism successfully predicted ethical and social responsibility orientations. Results are discussed in terms of their theoretical implications for the interdisciplinary research on materialism—postmaterialism, the relationship of materialism to ethics and social responsibility and on understanding individual ethics and social responsibility concerns.
African Mexicans in Spanish Slave Societies in America
Authors: Green Debra D.
Published: May 2008

This article examines the sources of the discourse on African Mexicans, often referred to as Afromexicans, in an effort to structure a more extensive foundation for cultural work. Taking an Afrocentric approach to the study of Africans who were enslaved by the Spanish in Mexico, the author, who speaks Spanish, traveled to Mexico on many occasions to study the retention of African cultural forms, concepts, practices, and values. As a result of this work, the author wrote her doctoral dissertation at Temple University on African Mexicans. Thus, this article provides the reader with a critical literature brief on the issues surrounding the current discourse.
Unemployment as Conduit of Black Self-Hate
Authors: Hall Ronald E. , Pizarro Jesenia M.
Published: May 2008

Commensurate with unemployment as conduit of Black self-hate is Black male aggression directed at racial peers. Consumed by poverty and most importantly unemployment, Black males have internalized norms via legacy of the antebellum that embrace violence. Their ability to obtain gainful employment can serve as a powerful alternative to the pathologizing influence of self-hate and to approaches emphasizing homicide to the exclusion of others. To reverse the trends, successful Blacks must be willing to mentor those less fortunate by being personally or actively involved. Their existence as role models can help decrease self-hate until such time as mentees can become permanently and gainfully employed.
The Influence of Modification of Mesoporous Silica with Polyethylene Via In Situ Ziegler—Natta Polymerization on PE/MCM-41 Nanocomposite
Authors: Na Wang  , Shi Zhao-Xin , Jing Zhang  , Lei Wang
Published: May 2008

An organic/inorganic nanocomposite of polyethylene (PE) was prepared by compounding techniques. Uniform mono-dispersed spherical MCM-41 nano-particles were modified with polyethylene (PE) prepared by in situ Ziegler—Natta polymerization. The catalyst was first supported on the surface or in the mesopores of MCM-41 particles to subsequently initiate the polymerization of ethylene on the surface or in the mesopores of MCM-41. XRD and N 2 adsorption analysis attested to ethylene polymerization within the mesopores of MCM-41. When MCM-41 modified with a PE layer was mixed with commercialized PE by melt blending, the strong interaction between the dispersed MCM-41 nano-particles and the resin matrix resulted in the formation of a kind of organic/inorganic network, which provided better mechanical performance than the composite from MCM-41 without a PE layer. The tensile modulus, tensile strength and elongation at break were improved by 24.7, 28.3, and 23.5% in comparison with pure PE composites.
Measurement of Thermal Conductivity of Triaxial Braided Composites
Authors: Kiani S. , Chan W.S. , Haji-Sheikh A.
Published: May 2008

This article presents the measured thermal conductivity of tri-axial braided graphite/epoxy composites. An apparatus was designed for measuring the temperature at different locations with applied heat flux on a tri-axial braided composite sample. From the measured temperatures, the out-of-plane thermal conductivity, Kzz was calculated by using one-dimensional Fourier's law, while the in-plane thermal conductivities, Kxx and Kyy were obtained by using inverse FEM method through the ANSYS transient thermal analysis. Four different configurations of IM7/5250-4 graphite/epoxy composites of a single layer with tri-axial [0/±25°], [0/±35°], [0/±55°] and [0/±65°] braiding were used. Results indicate that Kzz has insignificant variations with respect to change of fiber orientation and temperature below 100°C. However, Kxx and Kyy strongly depend on the fiber orientation. The [0/±25°] composite sample has the highest value of K xx, while the [0/±65°] composite sample shows the highest value for Kyy.
Micromechanical Viscoelastic Characterization of Fibrous Composites
Authors: Naik Abhay , Abolfathi Nabi , Karami Ghodrat , Ziejewski Mariusz
Published: May 2008

An efficient computational algorithm is proposed to evaluate the viscoelastic properties of fibrous composites. A repeating unit cell (RUC) based on a pre-determined fiber packing is assumed to represent the microstructure of the composite. Finite element analysis of this unit cell under six specified loading conditions is carried out to study and quantify the time-dependent composite viscoelastic property of the unit cell. Volume averaging scheme is implemented to determine the averaged response as function of time in terms of stresses and strains. This time history analysis constitutes the data for characterization of the composite and determination of the viscoelastic parameters and coefficients. The individual viscoelastic properties of the constituents' materials as well as the composite are assumed to follow the Prony series definitions. To verify the algorithm certain examples are included. In these examples, the constituting fiber materials are assumed to be elastic and the matrix is assumed viscoelastic. Three different types of fiber packings; hexagonal (HEX), square (SQR) and bidirectional crossed fibers (BCF), will be used and each packing will be examined for different fiber volume (V f/V) fractions. The accuracy and verification of the results have been examined with known circumstances. The methodology is to be accurate and efficient so far the periodicity of the composite material rules. This micromechanics tool could make a powerful viable algorithm for determination of many linear as well as nonlinear properties in continuum mechanics material characterization and analysis.
Active Control of Reactive Resin Flow in a Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) Process
Authors: Johnson R.J. , Pitchumani R.
Published: May 2008

Flow of a catalyzed resin into a fibrous preform is an important step governing the quality of composite parts fabricated using liquid molding techniques. This article presents numerical and experimental investigations on novel means of active flow control to steer the resin flow through the preform so as to eliminate void entrapment and dry spots. The active control is based on locally heating resin to reduce viscosity and, thereby, enhance preform permeation at locations of flow lag in the preform throughout the filling process. A consequence of heating the reacting resin is an accelerated cure reaction that irreversibly increases resin viscosity with cure. A balance between the competing sources of viscosity change form the basis for the model-based control of localized heating. Focusing on a vacuum assisted resin transfer molding (VARTM) process, numerical modeling is coupled to an active control strategy in a simulation environment, and parametric studies are presented over a range of preform lay-ups and constraint on the maximum cure levels at the completion of the filling stage. In addition, the active control system is experimentally implemented and is shown to be successful in fabricating composite panels, without void entrapment or premature resin gelation, while reducing fill time and resin wastage.
Observing Inhomogeneity of Plastic Components in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Materials by ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy in the Micrometer Scale
Authors: Eibl S.
Published: May 2008

A method based on micro attenuated total reflection (ATR) Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is described to quantify inhomogeneity of plastic components in carbon fiber reinforced plastic material (CFRP). The investigated CFRPs contain an epoxy resin and a thermoplastic. Measurements on ground specimens at an inclined plane through the material allow the determination of the polymer distribution with a resolution of one micron regarding the depth. Three commercially available CFRPs (M18-1/G939, 8552/IM7, RTM 6) are characterized providing information on mechanical and thermal properties.
Sosein
Authors: Strenger Carlo
Published: May 2008

In light of the increase in life expectancy in the 20th century, a growing number of people are making significant midlife changes. This article tries to steer a way between two cultural myths about this life period. The first is that the only sane solution of the midlife crisis is acceptance of growing limitations. The second is the idea that, given drive and a vision, we are capable of boundless change. The alternative middle way proposed is called “active self-acceptance.” It is based on Karl Jaspers's notion that we are all condemned to failure vis-à-vis boundary situations and that there is a Sosein (being thus and no other) that is recalcitrant to change. Jaspers's biography and an extended case example show that active self-acceptance is not passive resignation but initiation of a process of self-transformation in which lucid self-knowledge and acceptance are combined into a process that allows full self-development.
The Protective and Risk Effects of Parents and Peers on Substance Use, Attitudes, and Behaviors of Mexican and Mexican American Female and Male Adolescents
Authors: Parsai Monica , Voisine Sarah , Marsiglia Flavio F. , Kulis Stephen , Nieri Tanya
Published: May 2008

This study explores the extent to which parental and peer behaviors and norms may affect substance use, personal antidrug norms, and intentions to use drugs in a group of Mexican heritage preadolescents in the Southwest United States, and whether these parental and peer influences differ according to gender. Secondary data from a randomized trial of a drug prevention program were used. The sample consisted of 2,733 adolescents. The outcomes were recent alcohol, cigarette, and marijuana use, personal antidrug norms, and intentions to use drugs. In this study, peer variables were more consistently related to the outcomes than parent variables, with the exception of parental injunctive norms, which were the most predictive parent factor. Recommendations are provided to further study the protective processes that are maintained through the transition into adolescence and acculturation as a foundation for the design of resiliency-focused prevention interventions.
Comparing N = 1 Effect Size Indices in Presence of Autocorrelation
Authors: Manolov Rumen , Solanas Antonio
Published: May 2008

Generalization from single-case designs can be achieved by replicating individual studies across different experimental units and settings. When replications are available, their findings can be summarized using effect size measurements and integrated through meta-analyses. Several procedures are available for quantifying the magnitude of treatment effect in N = 1 designs, and some of them are studied in this article. Monte Carlo simulations were used to generate different data patterns (trend, level change, and slope change). The experimental conditions simulated were defined by the degrees of serial dependence and phase length. Out of all the effect size indices studied, the percentage of nonoverlapping data and standardized mean difference proved to be less affected by autocorrelation and to perform better for shorter data series. The regression-based procedures proposed specifically for single-case designs did not differentiate between data patterns as well as did simpler indices.
The Development and Validation of a New Machiavellianism Scale
Authors: Dahling Jason J. , Whitaker Brian G. , Levy Paul E.
Published: May 2008

A new measure of Machiavellianism, the Machiavellian Personality Scale (MPS), was developed and validated over two studies. Machiavellianism is conceptualized as one's propensity to distrust others, engage in amoral manipulation, seek control over others, and seek status for oneself. Study 1 developed and tested the factor structure of the scale, whereas Study 2 provided evidence for the convergent, divergent, and criterion-related validity of the MPS. The results of these studies supported the a priori factor structure of the MPS and indicated that it is a valid predictor of such outcomes as job satisfaction, task performance, and counterproductive work behaviors.
The Comparative Pathology of the Glycosidase Inhibitors Swainsonine, Castanospermine, and Calystegines A3, B2, and C1 in Mice
Authors: Stegelmeier Bryan L. , Molyneux Russell J. , Asano Naoki , Watson Alison A. , Nash Robert J.
Published: May 2008

To study various polyhydroxy-alkaloid glycosidase inhibitors, 16 groups of 3 mice were dosed using osmotic minipumps with swainsonine (0, 0.1, 1, and 10 mg/kg/day), castanospermine, and calystegines A3, B2, and C1 (1, 10, and 100 mg/kg/day). After 28 days, the mice were euthanized, necropsied, and examined using light and electron microscopy. The high-dose swainsonine–treated mice developed neurologic disease with neuro-visceral vacuolation typical of locoweed poisoning. Castanospermine- and calystegines-treated mice were clinically normal; however, high-dose castanospermine–treated mice had thyroid, renal, hepatic, and skeletal myocyte vacuolation. Histochemically, swainsonine- and castanospermine-induced vacuoles contained mannose-rich oligosaccharides. High-dose calystegine A3–treated mice had increased numbers of granulated cells in the hepatic sinusoids. Electron microscopy, lectin histochemistry, and immunohistochemistry suggest these are pit cells (specialized NK cells). Histochemically, the granules contain glycoproteins or oligosaccharides with abundant terminal N-acetylglucosamine residues. Other calystegine-treated mice were histologically normal. These findings indicate that swainsonine produced lesions similar to locoweed, castanospermine caused vacuolar changes with minor changes in glycogen metabolism, and only calystegine A3 produced minimal hepatic changes. These also suggest that in mice calystegines and castanospermine are less toxic than swainsonine, and as rodents are relatively resistant to disease, they are poor models to study such induced storage diseases.