bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression, Localization, and Binding Activity of the Ezrin/Radixin/Moesin Proteins in the Mouse Testis
Authors: Wakayama Tomohiko , Nakata Hiroki , Kurobo Miho , Sai Yoshimichi , Iseki Shoichi
Published: December 2008

The ezrin, radixin, and moesin (ERM) proteins represent a family of adaptor proteins linking transmembrane proteins to the cytoskeleton. The seminiferous epithelium undergoes extensive changes in cellular composition, location, and shape, implicating roles of the membrane–cytoskeleton interaction. It remains unknown, however, whether the ERM proteins are expressed and play significant roles in the testis. In the present study, we examined the spatiotemporal expression of ERM proteins in the mouse testis by Western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Ezrin immunoreactivity was demonstrated in the cytoplasm of steps 15 and 16 spermatids from 5 weeks postpartum through adulthood, whereas radixin immunoreactivity was in the apical cytoplasm of Sertoli cells from 1 week through 2 weeks postpartum. No immunoreactivity for moesin was detected at any age. Immuno-precipitation demonstrated that ezrin was bound to the cytoskeletal component actin, whereas radixin was bound to both actin and tubulin. Of the transmembrane proteins known to interact with ERM proteins, only cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator, a chloride transporter, was bound to ezrin in elongated spermatids. These results suggest that ezrin is involved in spermiogenesis whereas radixin is involved in the maturation of Sertoli cells, through interaction with different sets of membrane proteins and cyto-skeletal components.
Increased Expression of β-Catenin, Phosphorylated Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3β, Cyclin D1, and c-myc in Laterally Spreading Colorectal Tumors
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Xinying , Gong Wei , Mi Biantao , Liu Side , Jiang Bo
Published: December 2008

Laterally spreading tumors (LSTs) are considered a special subtype of superficial colorectal tumor. This study was performed to characterize the clinicopathological features and examine activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in LSTs and protruded-type colorectal adenomas (PAs). Fifty LSTs and 54 PAs were collected, and their clinicopathological characteristics were compared. The expression of E-cadherin, β-catenin, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), phosphorylated GSK-3β, (phospho-GSK-3β), cyclin D1, and c-myc was investigated by immunohistochemical staining on serial sections. Patients with LSTs were significantly older than those bearing PAs (63.4 vs 47.4 years old; p<0.001). The mean size of LSTs was significantly larger than that of PAs (27.0 mm vs 14.6 mm; p<0.01). Forty-eight percent of LSTs were located in the proximal colon, which was significantly higher than that of PAs (18.5%; p<0.05). Expression of β-catenin, phospho-GSK-3β, cyclin D1, and c-myc was significantly increased in LSTs compared with PAs ( p<0.05). However, E-cadherin and total GSK-3β expression was not significantly different between the two groups. The level of β-catenin expression correlated strongly with phospho-GSK-3β, cyclin D1, and c-myc expression in LSTs but not in PAs. Our findings suggest that activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway is more prevalent in LSTs than in PAs, suggesting that phosphorylation-dependent inactivation of GSK-3β may be involved in LST carcinogenesis.
On the Effectiveness of the Dynamic Force Adjustment for Reducing the Scatter of Instrumented Charpy Results
Authors: Lucon Enrico
Published: December 2008

One of the key factors for obtaining reliable instrumented Charpy results is the calibration of the instrumented striker. An interesting alternative to the conventional static calibration recommended by the standards is the dynamic force adjustment (DFA), in which forces and displacements are iteratively adjusted until equality is achieved between absorbed energies calculated under the test record (Wt) and measured by the machine encoder (KV). In this study, the procedure has been applied to the instrumented data obtained by ten international laboratories using notched and precracked Charpy specimens, in the framework of a Coordinated Research Project (CRP8) of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). DFA is extremely effective in reducing the between-laboratory scatter for both general yield and maximum forces. The effect is less significant for dynamic reference temperatures measured from precracked Charpy specimens using the Master Curve procedure, but a moderate reduction of the standard deviation is, however, observed. It is shown that striker calibration is a prominent contribution to the interlaboratory variability of instrumented impact forces, particularly in the case of maximum forces.
Recent Spread of a Retrotransposon in theSilene latifoliaGenome, Apart From the Y Chromosome
Authors: Filatov Dmitry A , Howell Elaine C , Groutides Constantinos , Armstrong Susan J
Published: December 2008

Transposable elements often accumulate in nonrecombining regions, such as Y chromosomes. Contrary to this trend, a new Silene retrotransposon described here, has spread recently all over the genome of plant Silene latifolia, except its Y chromosome. This coincided with the latest steps of sex chromosome evolution in this species.
Community consultation: lessons from Sydney
Authors: Kalowski J.
Published: December 2008

This paper describes the mechanisms and potential benefits and pitfalls for community consultation on major infrastructure projects, based on the author’s 20 years of experience as a community liaison group facilitator in Sydney, Australia. It reports in particular on lessons learned from consultations on two major projects: the Epping to Chatswood railway and the Cross City Tunnel. Despite being run along similar lines, consultations on the former were widely considered a success by all parties whereas the latter degenerated into open hostility, with negative long-term consequences for the project and its promoters.
RANK CLOCKS AND PLANT COMMUNITY DYNAMICS
Authors: Collins Scott L. , Suding Katharine N. , Cleland Elsa E. , Batty Michael , Pennings Steven C. , Gross Katherine L. , Grace James B. , Gough Laura , Fargione Joe E. , Clark Christopher M.
Published: December 2008

Summarizing complex temporal dynamics in communities is difficult to achieve in a way that yields an intuitive picture of change. Rank clocks and rank abundance statistics provide a graphical and analytical framework for displaying and quantifying community dynamics. We used rank clocks, in which the rank order abundance for each species is plotted over time in temporal clockwise direction, to display temporal changes in species abundances and richness. We used mean rank shift and proportional species persistence to quantify changes in community structure in long‐term data sets from fertilized and control plots in a late successional old field, frequently and infrequently burned tallgrass prairie, and Chihuahuan desert grassland and shrubland communities. Rank clocks showed that relatively constant species richness masks considerable temporal dynamics in relative species abundances. In the old field, fertilized plots initially experienced high mean rank shifts that stabilized rapidly below that of unfertilized plots. Rank shifts were higher in infrequently burned vs. annually burned tallgrass prairie and in desert grassland compared to shrubland vegetation. Proportional persistence showed that arid grasslands were more dynamic than mesic grasslands. We conclude that rank clocks and rank abundance statistics provide important insights into community dynamics that are often hidden by traditional univariate approaches.
SPATIAL CONTAGIOUSNESS OF CANOPY DISTURBANCE IN TROPICAL RAIN FOREST: AN INDIVIDUAL‐TREE‐BASED TEST
Authors: Jansen Patrick A. , Meer Peter J. Van der , Bongers Frans
Published: December 2008

Spatial contagiousness of canopy dynamics—the tendency of canopy disturbances to occur nearby existing canopy openings due to an elevated risk of tree fall around gaps—has been demonstrated in many temperate‐zone forests, but only inferentially for tropical forests. Hypothesized mechanisms increasing the risk of tree fall around tropical forest gaps are (1) increased tree exposure to wind around gaps, (2) reduced stability of trees alongside gaps due to crown asymmetry, or (3) reduced tree health around gaps due to damage from prior disturbances. One hypothesized consequence of elevated disturbance levels around gaps would be that gap‐edge zones offer relatively favorable prospects for seedling recruitment, growth, and survival. We tested whether disturbance levels are indeed elevated around natural canopy gaps in a neotropical rain forest in French Guiana, and more so as gaps are larger. We followed the fate of 5660 trees >10 cm stem diameter over five years across 12 ha of old‐growth forest and analyzed the risk and magnitude of canopy disturbance events in relation to tree diameter and the proximity and size of natural canopy gaps. We found that the cumulative incidence of disturbance over the five‐year survey was not significantly elevated around preexisting gaps, and only weakly related to gap size. Also, neither the risk nor the magnitude of canopy disturbances increased significantly with the proximity of gaps. Moreover, canopy disturbance risk around gaps was independent of gap size, while the magnitude of disturbance events around gaps was weakly related to gap size. Tree size was the major driver of disturbance risk as well as magnitude. We did find an elevated incidence of disturbance inside preexisting gaps, but this “repeat disturbance” was due to an elevated disturbance risk inside gaps, not around gaps. Overall, we found no strong evidence for canopy dynamics in this rain forest being spatially contagious. Our findings are consistent with the traditional view of tropical rain forests as mosaics of patches with predictable regeneration cycles.
THE SPECIES–AREA RELATIONSHIP, SELF‐SIMILARITY, AND THE TRUE MEANING OF THE z‐VALUE
Authors: Tjørve Even , Tjørve Kathleen M. Calf
Published: December 2008

The power model, S = cAz (where S is number of species, A is area, and c and z are fitted constants), is the model most commonly fitted to species–area data assessing species diversity. We use the self‐similarity properties of this model to reveal patterns implicated by the z parameter. We present the basic arithmetic leading both to the fraction of new species added when two areas are combined and to species overlap between two areas of the same size, given a continuous sampling scheme. The fraction of new species resulting from expansion of an area can be expressed as αz − 1, where α is the expansion factor. Consequently, z‐values can be converted to a scale‐invariant species overlap between two equally sized areas, since the proportion of species in common between the two areas is 2 − 2z. Calculating overlap when adding areas of the same size reveals the intrinsic effect of distance assumed by the bisectional scheme. We use overlap–area relationships from empirical data sets to illustrate how answers to the single large or several small reserves (SLOSS) question vary between data sets and with scale. We conclude that species overlap and the effect of distance between sample areas or isolates should be addressed when discussing species–area relationships, and lack of fit to the power model can be caused by its assumption of a scale‐invariant overlap relationship.
DISTANCE‐DEPENDENT EFFECT OF THE NEAREST NEIGHBOR: SPATIOTEMPORAL PATTERNS IN BROWN BEAR REPRODUCTION
Authors: Ordiz Andrés , Støen Ole-Gunnar , Swenson Jon E. , Kojola Ilpo , Bischof Richard
Published: December 2008

In mammals, reproductive synchrony and reproductive suppression usually are found in social, group‐living species, which often display hierarchical relationships among related animals. Some individuals, particularly younger, philopatric females beyond the age of sexual maturity, may not raise offspring because they are suppressed by other individuals. Although brown bears (Ursus arctos) are a solitary species, the existence of socially induced delayed primiparity of philopatric females has been documented. Here we show further evidence for interactions of a population‐regulatory nature that are typically associated with social species. We found that an adult female's probability of having cubs in a given year was influenced by whether or not her nearest neighboring adult female had cubs. At short distances (≤10 km) between the home range centroids of neighboring females, females with cubs had a negative effect on their neighboring female's probability of having cubs of the year. At distances >10 km and ≤20 km, the effect reversed, and it disappeared beyond 20 km. We argue that reproductive suppression is probably caused by resource competition among females living close to each other. Previously, similar population regulation mechanisms have been found only in group‐living mammals. Thus, social interactions and behavior in solitary carnivores may be more flexible than usually assumed.
CLIMATE AND RESOURCE DETERMINANTS OF FUNDAMENTAL AND REALIZED METABOLIC NICHES OF HIBERNATING CHIPMUNKS
Authors: Landry-Cuerrier M. , Munro D. , Thomas D. W. , Humphries M. M.
Published: December 2008

Torpor is a reversible reduction in endotherm body temperature and metabolic rate. Because torpid endotherms can attain lower body temperatures in colder environments, minimum torpor metabolism generally increases with rising air temperature whereas euthermic metabolism generally declines with rising air temperature. As a result, the fundamental metabolic niche of endotherms that express torpor should be driven by climate and should be broadest in colder environments. On the other hand, if torpor serves primarily as an energy conservation strategy and its expression is influenced by energy availability, then the realized metabolic niche should be defined by resources. To evaluate the influence of resource and climate on torpor use and metabolism of hibernating mammals, we monitored the torpor expression of free‐ranging eastern chipmunks (Tamias striatus) over two winters of varying resource abundance. In the low‐food year, soil temperature constrained maximum torpor expression but was too invariant across small spatial scales to explain individual variation in torpor expression. In the high‐food year, torpor was drastically reduced, and local density of seed‐producing trees predicted fine‐scale spatial variation in torpor expression. Thus, the fundamental metabolic niche of hibernating chipmunks in cold environments is broad and constrained by climate, whereas the realized metabolic niche is highly variable among individuals and years and is determined primarily by local resource abundance.
DUCKING AS A MEANS OF RESISTANCE TO HERBIVORY IN TALL GOLDENROD, SOLIDAGO ALTISSIMA
Authors: Wise Michael J. , Abrahamson Warren G.
Published: December 2008

Many populations of goldenrod show a peculiar, genetically controlled stem dimorphism. In Solidago altissima, for instance, while most stems are erect, a sizable minority (the “candy‐cane” stems) nod at the apex during growth. We used data from three studies to test the hypothesis that this candy‐cane growth form confers resistance to herbivory. In a controlled growth trial, we showed that nodding is a temporary phenomenon that coincides with the oviposition period of at least two common apex‐attacking herbivores: the tephritid galler Eurosta solidaginis and the gall midge Rhopalomyia solidaginis. In a large field survey, stems of candy‐cane genets were only half as likely to be ovipunctured by E. solidaginis. In a common‐garden study, candy‐cane stems were less likely to be ovipunctured by E. solidaginis, and they were galled only half as often by R. solidaginis as erect stems. These results suggest that the candy‐cane stems of goldenrod possess a resistance strategy that allows them to essentially duck and hide from certain herbivores.
HERBIVORY MORE LIMITING THAN COMPETITION ON EARLY AND ESTABLISHED NATIVE PLANTS IN AN INVADED MEADOW
Authors: Gonzales Emily K. , Arcese Peter
Published: December 2008

The dominance of nonnative plants coupled with declines of native plants suggests that competitive displacement drives extinctions, yet empirical examples are rare. Herbivores, however, can alter vegetation structure and reduce diversity when abundant. Herbivores may act on mature, reproductive life stages whereas some of the strongest competitive effects might occur at early life stages that are difficult to observe. For example, competition by perennial nonnative grasses can interfere with the establishment of native seeds. We contrasted the effects of ungulate herbivory and competition by neighboring plants on the performance of native plant species at early and established life stages in invaded oak meadows. We recorded growth, survival, and flowering in two native species transplanted as established plants, six native species grown from seed, and five extant lily species as part of two 2 × 2 factorial experiments that manipulated herbivory and competition. Herbivory reduced the performance of nearly all focal native species at early and established life stages, whereas competition had few measurable effects. Our results suggest that herbivory has a greater local influence on native plant species than competition and that reducing herbivore impacts will be required to successfully restore endangered oak meadows where ungulates are now abundant.
LARGE‐SCALE DIVERSITY PATTERNS OF CEPHALOPODS IN THE ATLANTIC OPEN OCEAN AND DEEP SEA
Authors: Rosa Rui , Dierssen Heidi M. , Gonzalez Liliana , Seibel Brad A.
Published: December 2008

Although the oceans cover 70% of the Earth's surface and the open ocean is by far the largest ecosystem on the planet, our knowledge regarding diversity patterns of pelagic fauna is very scarce. Here, we examine large‐scale latitudinal and depth‐related patterns of pelagic cephalopod richness in the Atlantic Ocean in relation to ambient thermal and productive energy availability. Diversity, across 17 biogeochemical regions in the open ocean, does not decline monotonically with latitude, but is positively correlated to the availability of oceanic resources. Mean net primary productivity (NPP), determined from ocean color satellite imagery, explains 37% of the variance in species richness. Outside the poles, the range in NPP explains over 40% of the variability. This suggests that cephalopods are well adapted to the spatial patchiness and seasonality of open‐ocean resources. Pelagic richness is also correlated to sea surface temperature, with maximum richness occurring around 15°C and decreasing with both colder and warmer temperatures. Both pelagic and benthos‐associated diversities decline sharply from sublittoral and epipelagic regions to the slope and bathypelagic habitats and then steadily to abyssal depths. Thus, higher energy availability at shallow depths seems to promote diversification rates. This strong depth‐related trend in diversity also emphasizes the greater influence of the sharp vertical thermal gradient than the smoother and more seasonal horizontal (latitudinal) one on marine diversity.
Development and validation of aDaphnia magnafour-day survival and growth test method
Authors: Lazorchak James M. , Smith Mark E. , Haring Herman J.
Published: December 2008

Zooplankton are an important part of the aquatic ecology of all lakes and streams. As a result, numerous methods have been developed to assess the quality of waterbodies using various zooplankton species. Included in these is the freshwater species Daphnia magna. Current test methods using D. magna involve acute lethality test methods ranging from 24 to 96 h in duration and chronic test methods with durations of 21 to 28 d. Whereas the current acute and chronic test methods are useful, a need exists for a shorter-duration test method that will provide a chronic or subchronic endpoint with this species. In the present study, a 4-d, static-renewal survival and growth test was developed for use with D. magna. The test results were compared to performance criteria and results from 7-d survival and reproduction tests with Ceriodaphnia dubia to determine the level of comparability between the two methods. Results from the 4-d D. magna survival and growth test method indicated that this method will produce consistent results with various reference toxicant materials and provide data that are both reproducible and useful for detecting potential toxicity in aquatic environments.
Remembering Patients who Die: Exploring the Meaning Conveyed in Notes to the Researcher
Authors: Grove Wendy J. C.
Published: December 2008

Nurses are confronted with the reality of death and dying as part of their profession and, often times, their daily work. The qualitative data in this article were compiled from unsolicited comments provided by respondents to a survey of Registered Nurses. Forty-eight nurses wrote notes to the researcher/author which, after analysis, were organized into two major themes. The first theme encompassed how patient deaths are remembered. The length of time since the death, details provided, and definitions of “good death” were identified as sub-themes. The second theme surrounded the effect that patient death experiences have on nurses. Implications of these data include the need to acknowledge patient death and the immense emotional toll it takes on nurses, as well as understanding that nurses are disenfranchised grievers.
A Meeting with Persephone
Authors: Sim Sheila
Published: December 2008

The experience of a life-threatening illness, such as cancer, throws the patient into a stark confrontation with the vulnerability of their own body. Treatment may present further challenges. The patient may be visibly and dramatically altered by surgery: the loss of a breast after a mastectomy, or the swelling of lymphoedema after removal of lymph nodes. Any new bodily reality brings an added dimension to the patient's process of adaptation to their illness. The author, a social worker in a women's hospital, offers this personal narrative of living with a temporary colostomy, a common procedure in bowel cancer. The experience taught her that a routine medical practice, an everyday event in any Oncology Unit, could simultaneously hold a profoundly deeper meaning for the patient. This narrative is offered in the hope that it may illuminate, for health practitioners, the experience of this common yet little-discussed procedure.
Health within Illness: An Examination of a College Student's Encounter with Quadriplegia
Authors: Lies Rev. James , Nowak Amanda
Published: December 2008

While a good deal of research and theory has focused on the study of the chronically ill or disabled, the concept of health within illness has only relatively recently been critically developed. The phenomenon speaks to the possibility that illness has the potential to be a catalyst for growth. Health within illness, according to Moch (1997), “is an opportunity which increases meaningfulness of life through connectedness or relatedness with the environment and/or awareness of self during a state of compromised well-being” (p. 305). There are six themes that have been developed as an outcome of a seminal study (Lindsey, 1996) in this area. The six themes are as follows: honoring the self; seeking and connecting with others; creating opportunities; celebrating life; transcending the self; and acquiring a state of grace. This case study applies the six themes in examining the experience and reflections of a young man who, due to an accident in a college residence hall, was left with quadriplegia. Also addressed are some of the ways that an understanding of health within illness can impact the work of health professionals, pastoral care workers, families and friends, and even the people living with chronic illness and disability themselves.
Asbestosis and Catalase Genetic Polymorphism
Authors: Franko Alenka , Dolžan Vita , Arnerić Niko , Dodič-Fikfak Metoda
Published: December 2008

Asbestosis and Catalase Genetic Polymorphism

Catalase (CAT) is part of the enzymatic defense system against reactive oxygen species (ROS), known to be involved in the pathogenesis of asbestosis. This study investigates whether CAT -262 C>T genetic polymorphism influences the risk of asbestosis in workers occupationally exposed to asbestos.

The nested case-control study included 262 cases with asbestosis and 265 controls with no asbestos-related disease. Data on cumulative asbestos exposure and smoking were available. A real-time PCR assay was introduced for genotyping CAT -262 C>T promoter polymorphism.

A slightly elevated risk of asbestosis was observed in subjects with the CAT -262 TT genotype compared to others (OR=1.36, CI 0.70-2.62). This risk did not change substantially after adjustment by sex, age, and smoking, but the involvement of cumulative asbestos exposure changed the OR to 1.91 (CI 0.93-3.91). These findings indicate that the CAT -262 TT genotype may be slightly associated with an increased risk of asbestosis. No synergistic effect was found between cumulative asbestos exposure and the CAT -262 TT genotype, but cumulative asbestos exposure acted as a confounder. These results are an important contribution to understanding the interactions between genetic and environmental factors that may modify the risk of asbestosis.
Homage to Professor Witold ŻABIŃSKI
Authors: Narębski Wojciech
Published: December 2008

Homage to Professor Witold ŻABIŃSKI
Assessing Clinical Competency: Reports from Discussion Groups
Authors: Turnwald Grant , Stone Elizabeth , Bristol David , Fuentealba Carmen , Hardie Lizette , Hellyer Peter , Jaeger Laurie , Kerwin Sharon , Kochevar Deborah , Lissemore Kerry , Olsen Christopher , Rogers Kenita , Sabin Beth , Swanson Cliff , Warner Angeline
Published: December 2008

This report describes proposed new models for assessment of eight of the nine clinical competencies the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education requires for accreditation. The models were developed by discussion groups at the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges’ Clinical Competency Symposium. Clinical competencies and proposed models (in parentheses) are described.

Competency 1: comprehensive patient diagnosis (neurologic examination on a dog, clinical reasoning skills); Competency 2: comprehensive treatment planning (concept mapping, computerized case studies); Competency 3: anesthesia, pain management (student portfolio); Competency 4: surgery skills (objective structured clinical examination, cased-based examination, “super dog” model); Competency 5: medicine skills (clinical reasoning and case management, skills checklist); Competency 6: emergency and intensive care case management (computerized case study or scenario); Competency 7: health promotion, disease prevention/biosecurity (360° evaluation, case-based computer simulation); Competency 8: client communications and ethical conduct (Web-based evaluation forms, client survey, communicating with stakeholders, telephone conversation, written scenario-based cases). The report also describes faculty recognition for participating in clinical competency assessments.
What Does a Clinical Competency Curriculum Look Like?
Authors: Smith Stephen R.
Published: December 2008

This article describes how a competency-based curriculum is implemented at the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University. A competency-based curriculum can be implemented in either a traditional discipline-oriented curriculum or an integrated, case-based curriculum. Restructuring learning activities, assuring adequate numbers of faculty, and training faculty to assess competencies are essential for success. Schools of veterinary medicine must ensure that their graduates possess a wide range of abilities, in additional to scientific knowledge, if they are to practice successfully. A competency-based curriculum is the best means to do so.
Tools for Implementing a Competency-Based Clinical Curriculum: The Dental School Experience
Authors: Hagan Betsy A.
Published: December 2008

Competency-based education is based on the identification of clearly defined learning outcomes. Three major elements of a competency-based program must be determined during the development of the curriculum: statements of competency, the learning experiences that will support these competencies, and the methods for assessing or measuring attainment of these competencies. This article describes the methods used in assessing clinical competency in dental education.
A Developmental Approach to Evaluating Competence in Clinical Reasoning
Authors: Scott Smith C.
Published: December 2008

In the past two decades there has been tremendous worldwide interest in assessing the clinical competence of learners in medical education. This interest marks a philosophical shift toward greater objectivity, accountability, and predictive power in the evaluation of trainees. One of the core competencies in medical education is clinical reasoning. Because veterinary and human medical training share several similarities and differences, a review of the current state of clinical reasoning competency assessment in medical education may be useful for veterinary educators. This article covers the core competency of clinical reasoning (not other important competencies, such as physical examination or communication) and reviews research from medical education on the development of clinical reasoning and its implications for the transition from novice to expert. Four common stage-related learner difficulties are described: reduced knowledge, dispersed knowledge, tunnel vision, and the outsider. Specific approaches to measuring competence in clinical reasoning for each developmental level are recommended. Finally, two specific examples of evaluation based on a developmental approach to clinical expertise, the RIME (reporter, interpreter, manager, expert) system and the Script Concordance Test (SCT) methods, are discussed.
Learning Characteristics of Veterinary Technology Students in a Distance-Education and an On-Campus Program
Authors: Varnhagen Connie K. , Wright David L.
Published: December 2008

Distance-education programs have the potential to greatly increase the number of veterinary technicians. The demographic characteristics, readiness for independent and online learning, learning styles, and academic locus of control of a group of distance-education and on-campus veterinary technology students were examined. Distance-education students preferred independent learning and were more internally motivated to learn. Distance-education students with greater degrees of independence and internal motivation participated more fully, were more satisfied with their learning, and achieved higher grades. Students who preferred problem solving and active experimentation were particularly successful in distance education. These findings could have important implications for advising students interested in distance-education programs.
Peer Assessment of a Final-Year Capstone Experience for Formative Evaluation of a Pathology Curriculum
Authors: Danielson Jared A. , Fales-Williams Amanda J. , Sorden Steven D. , Myers Ronald K. , Bender Holly S. , Mills Eric M.
Published: December 2008

In spring of 2005, the authors implemented and evaluated a process at the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine in which third-year students evaluated fourth-year students’ performances on an advanced case-analysis assignment. This assignment, called the case correlation assignment, required a thorough integration and explanation of all ante- and post-mortem data for a specific hospital patient. Using a 21-point rubric, the necropsy course instructor and third-year students rated these assignments. Fourth-year students’ performances on this assignment were used as an indicator of the success of the pathology curriculum. The authors evaluated the assessment process for feasibility, reliability, and validity. Many-facet Rasch analysis was used to determine item, case, and rater agreement. The assessment process produced good agreement among items and cases (VM4 student competence). Furthermore, most third-year students were able to reliably rate the case correlation assignments with no special training. The evaluation process was cost effective and occurred in the context of regular course assignments, thereby making it feasible. A case can be made that the overall process provides a valid measure of the pathology program's success in preparing students in the area of veterinary pathology.
Traumatic spine injuries in the geriatric population
Authors: Jabbour Pascal , Fehlings Michael , Vaccaro Alexander R. , Harrop James S.
Published: December 2008

In this paper the authors review spine trauma and spinal cord injury (SCI) in the geriatric population. The information in this study was compiled through a literature review of clinical presentation and management of SCI in the elderly population. This was done to define, identify, and specify treatment algorithms and management strategies in this unique patient population.
Genistein-Induced Histomorphometric and Hormone Secreting Changes in the Adrenal Cortex in Middle-Aged Rats
Authors: Ajdžanović Vladimir , Šošić-Jurjević Branka , Filipović Branko , Trifunović Svetlana , Manojlović-Stojanoski Milica , Sekulić Milka , Milošević Verica
Published: December 2008

The soybean phytoestrogen, genistein, is increasingly consumed as an alternative therapeutic for age-related diseases, namely cardiovascular conditions, cancer and osteoporosis. Besides estrogenic/antiestrogenic action, this isoflavone exerts a prominent inhibitory effect on tyrosine kinase and the steroidogenic enzyme families, thus affecting hormonal homeostasis. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of genistein on: histomorphometric features of the adrenal cortex, blood concentrations of aldosterone, corticosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and adrenal tissue corticosterone content in orchidectomized middle-aged male rats. Sixteen-month-old Wistar rats were divided into sham-operated (SO), orchidectomized (Orx) and genistein-treated orchidectomized (Orx+G) groups. Genistein (30 mg/kg/day) was administered subcutaneously for three weeks, while the control groups received the vehicle alone. The adrenal cortex was analysed histologically and morphometrically. Circulating concentrations of aldosterone, corticosterone and DHEA, as well as adrenal tissue corticosterone levels, were determined by immunoassay. When compared to the SO group, orchidectomy decreased the ZG and ZR cell volume by 43% and 29%, respectively ( P < 0.05). Serum concentrations of aldosterone and DHEA were markedly lower [13% and 41%, respectively ( P < 0.05)], while serum and adrenal tissue levels of corticosterone did not change after orchidectomy. Orchidectomy followed by genistein treatment increased the ZG, ZF and ZR cell volume by 54%, 34% and 77%, respectively ( P < 0.05), compared to the untreated orchidectomized group. Histological analysis revealed noticeable vacuolization of the ZG and ZF cells in the Orx+G group. Serum aldosterone and corticosterone concentrations together with adrenal tissue corticosterone were 47%, 31% and 44% lower, respectively ( P < 0.05), whereas serum DHEA concentration was 342% higher ( P < 0.05) in this group in comparison with the Orx group. This study shows that in orchidectomized middle-aged rats, genistein can cause the shunting of metabolic pathways in the adrenals, supporting DHEA secretion and inhibiting corticosterone and aldosterone secretion.
Role of Protease-Activated Receptor-1 in Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase-Thr495 Phosphorylation
Authors: Watts Vabren L. , Motley Evangeline D.
Published: December 2008

Protease activated receptors (PARs) are G protein-coupled receptors that are known to regulate endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity in part by phosphorylating the enzyme at various sites. Ser1177 is a positive regulatory site, which leads to the enhanced production of nitric oxide (NO), a vasodilator of arteries. Thr495 is a negative regulatory site, which inhibits NO production. We have shown that thrombin, a PAR agonist, mediates eNOS-Ser1177 phosphorylation through Gqand a calcium and protein kinase C (PKC)-δ sensitive, but phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt-independent pathway. However, the mechanism for eNOS-Thr495 phosphorylation by PAR agonists is unknown. We used a specific synthetic PAR-1 activating peptide, TFLLR, and thrombin to assess the role of PAR-1 involvement in the phosphorylation of eNOS-Thr495 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Using Western blot analysis and the Griess Reagent assay, we found that both agonists phosphorylated Thr495 in a time- and dose-dependent manner and significantly decreased nitrite production, respectively. Pretreatment of cells with the PAR-1 inhibitor, SCH-79797, resulted in a significant decrease in thrombin- and TFLLR-induced phosphorylation of eNOS-Thr495 and an increase in nitrite production. We further demonstrated that inhibition of Rho with C3 exoenzyme or dominant negative (dn) RhoA, and inhibition of Rho-Kinase (ROCK) with Y-27632 caused a significant decrease in thrombin and TFLLR-induced Thr495 phosphorylation. Blockade of the Rho/ROCK pathway also caused an increase in nitrite production. This suggests that PAR-1 regulates eNOS activity via phosphorylation of eNOS-Thr495, which is dependent upon activation of the Rho/ROCK pathway. These findings will be beneficial in further understanding the signaling pathways that regulate eNOS-induced NO production, which plays an important role in endothelial dysfunction associated with cardiovascular disease.
Multifunctional Micellar Nanomedicine for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Blanco Elvin , Kessinger Chase W. , Sumer Baran D. , Gao Jinming
Published: December 2008

Polymeric micelles are supramolecular, core-shell nanoparticles that offer considerable advantages for cancer diagnosis and therapy. Their relatively small size (10–100 nm), ability to solubilize hydrophobic drugs as well as imaging agents, and improved pharmacokinetics provide a useful bioengineering platform for cancer applications. Several polymeric micelle formulations are currently undergoing phase I/II clinical trials, which have shown improved antitumor efficacy and reduced systemic toxicity. This minireview will focus on recent advancements in the multifunctional design of micellar nanomedicine with tumor targeting, stimulated drug release, and cancer imaging capabilities. Such functionalization strategies result in enhanced micellar accumulation at tumor sites, higher drug bioavailability, as well as improved tumor diagnosis and visualization of therapy. Ultimately, integrated nanotherapeutic systems (e.g., theranostic nanomedicine) may prove essential to address the challenges of tumor heterogeneity and adaptive resistance to achieve efficacious treatment of cancer.
The Autophagic Induction in Helicobacter pylori-Infected Macrophage
Authors: Wang Ya-Hui , Wu Jiunn-Jong , Lei Huan-Yao
Published: December 2008

Helicobacter pylori has developed several mechanisms to evade the intracellular killing after phagocytosis. In this study, we reported that some Taiwanese clinical isolated H. pylori can multiply in human monocytic cells, such as THP-1 or U937 cells, but not in murine macrophage Raw264.7 cells. After internalization, there was a 5- to 10-fold increment of re-cultivable H. pylori from the infected THP-1 cells at 12 hrs post infection. The dividing H. pylori was found in a double-layer vesicle, which is characteristic of autophagosome. The formation of autophagosomes is associated with the multiplication of H. pylori in THP-1 cells. Its modulation with rapamycin or 3-MA affects the level of H. pylori replication. Furthermore, the VacA or CagA mutants of H. pylori have lower levels of multiplication in macrophages. We conclude that H. pylori infection induces autophagosome formation, and these autophagic vesicles were adapted for the multiplication of H. pylori in the host.
Wireless Monitoring of Automobile Tires for Intelligent Tires
Authors: Matsuzaki Ryosuke , Todoroki Akira
Published: December 2008

This review discusses key technologies of intelligent tires focusing on sensors and wireless data transmission. Intelligent automobile tires, which monitor their pressure, deformation, wheel loading, friction, or tread wear, are expected to improve the reliability of tires and tire control systems. However, in installing sensors in a tire, many problems have to be considered, such as compatibility of the sensors with tire rubber, wireless transmission, and battery installments. As regards sensing, this review discusses indirect methods using existing sensors, such as that for wheel speed, and direct methods, such as surface acoustic wave sensors and piezoelectric sensors. For wireless transmission, passive wireless methods and energy harvesting are also discussed.
Retrospective Practice Review of Treatment of Metastatic Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer with Second-Line Erlotinib
Authors: Melosky B. , Agulnik J. , Assi H.
Published: December 2008

Background: Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs) and chemotherapy have both demonstrated efficacy in recurrent metastatic non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) following failure of first-line platinum-based chemotherapy. Although the 3 available therapeutic agents—docetaxel, erlotinib, and pemetrexed—have significantly changed the treatment landscape for recurrent NSCLC, the optimal selection of second- and third-line therapy has not been established. This practice review examines the outcomes in clinical practice of using second-line erlotinib followed by third-line chemotherapy in the treatment of recurrent metastatic NSCLC. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of NSCLC patient charts at three Canadian institutions. Patients with recurrent NSCLC who had received second-line erlotinib therapy followed by third-line chemotherapy were selected by census. A chart review assessed key outcomes that included time to progression (TTP), response, and change in performance status. Outcomes for specific patient subgroups were also examined. Results: We identified 35 patients for this retrospective practice review. First-line platinum-doublet therapy demonstrated a mean TTP of 6.6 months and a 46% overall response rate (15 partial responses and 1 complete response). Second-line treatment with erlotinib produced the highest mean TTP of all lines of therapy (9.2 months) and an overall response rate of 40% (all being partial responses). In the third-line setting, in which most patients received docetaxel, the mean TTP was 4.3 months and the overall response rate was 18% (all being partial responses). Subgroup analysis showed that all patient subgroups demonstrated benefit from second-line erlotinib treatment; improved benefit was observed in patients who developed rash, in female patients, in never smokers, in Asian patients, in patients with positive egfr status, and in patients with adenocarcinoma histology. Conclusions: For patients with advanced NSCLC who progressed following first-line platinum-based chemotherapy, the data demonstrate that second-line EGFR-TKI treatment is efficacious and well-tolerated and that it does not appear to diminish the benefit of third-line chemotherapy.
Small-Molecule Bcl-2 Antagonists as Targeted Therapy in Oncology
Authors: Warr M. R. , Shore G. C.
Published: December 2008

Dynamic protein–protein interactions between proapoptotic and pro-survival Bcl-2 family members regulate outer-mitochondrial membrane permeabilization and cytochrome c release, key events in the path to apoptosis. Their relative levels often dictate the fate of a cell following an apoptotic stimulus. However, in cancer cells, the pro-survival Bcl-2 family members are frequently upregulated, thereby creating a constitutive block to apoptosis and resulting in continued cell survival under conditions that normally result in cell death. Because many chemotherapeutics used to treat cancer also trigger apoptosis, this upregulation of pro-survival members also contributes to resistance to conventional cancer therapies. Strategies that inactivate pro-survival Bcl-2 family members therefore suggest a means by which this downstream block in apoptosis can be alleviated, resulting in the selective killing of malignant cells. Here, we outline the progress of three small-molecule Bcl-2 antagonists that have advanced into clinical evaluation.
PARALLEL NUMERICAL ALGORITHMS FOR OPTIMIZATION OF ELECTRICAL CABLES
Authors: Čiegis Raimondas , Čiegis Remigijus , Meilūnas Mečislavas , Jankevičiutė Gerda , Starikovičius Vadimas
Published: December 2008

In this paper we propose new heuristic numerical algorithm for determination of the optimal wires diameters in electrical cables. Two multilevel parallel versions of the optimization algorithm are constructed. The first algorithm is based on master‐slave technique and the second algorithm uses the data‐parallel strategy. Multilevel structure of the algorithms gives a possibility to adapt them to parallel architecture, for example, cluster of multicore computers. Some results of numerical experiments are presented which agree well with theoretical analysis.
NATURAL CONVECTION FLOW ON A SPHERE THROUGH POROUS MEDIUM IN PRESENCE OF HEAT SOURCE/SINK NEAR A STAGNATION POINT
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sourangshu
Published: December 2008

Steady natural convection boundary‐layer flow in the neighbourhood of lower stagnation point of a heated sphere embedded in a saturated porous medium in presence of heat source/sink is considered. The dimensionless governing equations for this investigation are solved numerically by shooting method. Then attention is focused on finding the effects of porosity parameter, heat source/sink parameter and the Prandtl number on velocity and temperature distributions. With the increase of permeability parameter of the porous medium, the fluid velocity decreases but the temperature increases at a particular point of the surface. Due to increasing values of heat source/sink parameter, fluid velocity is found to increase. It is noticed that the velocity boundary layer is suppressed with the increasing Prandtl number and the temperature decreases in this case. Prandtl number has an important effect in increasing the rate of heat transfer from the surface of the sphere.
NUMERICAL QUENCHING FOR A SEMILINEAR PARABOLIC EQUATION
Authors: Nabongo Diabate , Boni Theodore K.
Published: December 2008

This paper concerns the study of the numerical approximation for the nonlinear parabolic boundary value problem with the source term leading to the quenching in finite time. We find some conditions under which the solution of a semidiscrete form of the above problem quenches in a finite time and estimate its semidiscrete quenching time. We also prove that the semidiscrete quenching time converges to the real one when the mesh size goes to zero. A similar study has been also investigated taking a discrete form of the above problem. Finally, we give some numerical experiments to illustrate our analysis.