bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Push‐pull” supramolecular chromophores supported on cyclopolymers
Authors: Coluccini Carmine , Metrangolo Pierangelo , Parachini Marco , Pasini Dario , Resnati Giuseppe , Righetti Pierpaolo
Published: June 2008

Well‐defined macromolecules have been obtained through free‐radical cyclopolymerization and cyclocopolymerization of difunctional and acrylic‐like monomers, which contained “push‐pull” supramolecular chromophores, able to form 1:1 complexes with Eu3+ ions in solution. The monomeric molecular modules are built around bismalonate crown ethers in a convergent fashion, in which one of the malonate moiety is derivatized as the ylidene malonate push‐pull fragment, and the other malonate moiety is elaborated to introduce two polymerizable and acrylic‐like substituents. The free‐radical induced cyclopolymerization of these monomers, or their cyclocopolymerization with UV/Vis “silent” but structurally related monomers, afforded macromolecular architectures characterized by GPC, NMR and DSC techniques. UV/Vis titration studies, performed with Eu(OTf)3 as the supramolecular probe, revealed how adjacent chromophores within the polymeric backbone are virtually independent from each other, and how the binding ability towards the probe of these multivalent, highly packed cyclopolymeric architectures, although reduced, is still clearly detectable. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 46: 5202–5213, 2008
Proteomic analysis of altered proteins in distal renal tubular cells in response to calcium oxalate monohydrate crystal adhesion: Implications for kidney stone disease
Authors: Semangoen Theptida , Sinchaikul Supachok , Chen Shui‐Tein , Thongboonkerd Visith
Published: June 2008

Adhesion of calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals to renal tubular cells is a critical event that triggers a cascade of responses, leading to the development of kidney stones. However, the molecular mechanisms of these cellular responses remain largely unknown. We performed gel‐based, differential proteomics study to examine cellular responses (as determined by altered protein expression) in Madin–Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells during CaOx monohydrate (COM) crystal adhesion. Approximately 3‐million MDCK cells were inoculated in each culture flask and maintained for 24 h. A total of 10 semiconfluent flasks were then divided into two groups (n = 5 per group) and the culture medium was replaced by either COM‐containing (with 100 μg/mL COM crystals) or COM‐free medium. The cells were grown further for 48 h. Crystal adhesion on the cell surface was clearly demonstrated using phase‐contrast and scanning electron microscopy. Cell death assay using annexin V/propidium iodide double staining showed that all these samples had comparable % cell death. Cellular proteins were then extracted, resolved with 2‐DE, and visualized by SYPRO Ruby staining (n = 5 gels per group). Quantitative intensity analysis revealed significantly increased abundance of 15 protein spots, whereas the other 5 were decreased. These altered proteins were then identified by quadrupole TOF (Q‐TOF) MS and/or MS/MS analyses, including transcription/translation regulators, signal transduction proteins, metabolic enzymes, nuclear membrane proteins, carrier protein, cellular structural protein, chaperones, and proteins involved in biosynthesis, enzyme activation, and growth regulation. These data may lead to better understanding of the cellular responses in distal renal tubular cells during COM crystal adhesion.
Proteomic analysis of human proximal tubular cells exposed to high glucose concentrations
Authors: So Eun‐Jeong , Kim Hyun‐Jung , Kim Chan‐Wha
Published: June 2008

Hyperglycemia is a major key factor in the pathogenesis of microvascular complications of diabetes, including diabetic nephropathy (DN). Most studies to date have focused on the glomerular abnormalities found in DN. However, nephromegaly in the early stages of diabetes and the correlation of tubulointerstitial pathology rather than glomerular pathology with declining renal function in DN suggests the involvement of the tubulointerstitium. The etiology of the tubulointerstitial pathology in DN, however, is not fully understood. In this study, to understand the DN pathways, we constructed an initial 2‐DE reference map for primitively cultured human proximal tubule (HK‐2) cell in the presence of 5 mM and 25 mM glucose, which correspond to blood glucose concentrations during the normal and hyperglycemia conditions, respectively. Differentially expressed HK‐2 cell cellular proteins at the high glucose concentration were identified via ESI‐Q‐TOF MS/MS and confirmed by Western blotting; enolase 1 (up‐regulated) and lactate dehydrogenase (down‐regulated). The regulation of these proteins will help in understanding DN mechanism through the glycolysis metabolic pathways in high glucose stimulated HK‐2 cells.
Diagnosis and treatment options for allergic rhinitis in children
Authors: Fox Adam , Toit George du , Lack Gideon
Published: June 2008

Our series Prescribing in children gives practical advice for successful management of childhood problems in general practice. Here, the authors describe the substantial impact that allergic rhinitis can have on childhood and the available treatment options. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Optical absorption in ZrO2–x‐C nanocomposite films on polymer substrates: application of an effective medium theory
Authors: Cheyssac P. , Laidani N. , Anderle M.
Published: June 2008

RF sputtering from separate zirconia and graphite targets enables room‐temperature co‐deposition of ZrO2–x and carbon onto polycarbonate substrates. Films consist of amorphous carbon dispersed in tetragonal nanocrystalline zirconia; their optical properties have been determined by reflectance measurements at normal incidence and over the visible range. The optical constants of each component of the composite have been extracted; the experimental reflectance spectra have been fitted to Maxwell‐Garnett effective medium theory, leading to the effective dielectric constants of the film. Absorption is characterized by the band gap, the energy and lifetime of the optical transition of the absorbing carbon phase. These parameters are deduced from the imaginary part of the dielectric function using Tauc‐Lorentz model (TL) and from the extinction coefficient using Forouhi‐Bloomer model (FB) in which an energy dependence of the matrix element of the transition has been introduced. Furthermore, the energies of the peak transition and the maximum of the extinction coefficient are so similar that they prove the self‐consistency of the modified‐FB model applied to the amorphous carbon phase of the composite films. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of variation in streamflow and channel structure on smallmouth bass habitat in an alluvial stream
Authors: Remshardt W. Jason , Fisher William L.
Published: June 2008

We evaluated the effects of streamflow‐related changes in channel shape and morphology on the quality, quantity, availability and spatial distribution of young‐of‐year and adult smallmouth bass Micropterus dolomieu habitat in an alluvial stream, the Baron Fork of the Illinois River, Oklahoma. We developed Habitat Suitability Criteria (HSC) for young‐of‐year and adult smallmouth bass to assess changes in available smallmouth bass habitat between years, and compare predicted smallmouth bass Weighted Usable Area (WUA) with observed WUA measured the following year. Following flood events between 1999 and 2000, including a record flood, changes in transect cross‐sectional area ranged from 62.5% to 93.5% and channel mesohabitat overlap ranged from 29.5% to 67.0% in study three study reaches. Using Physical HABitat SIMulation (PHABSIM) system analysis, we found that both young‐of‐year and adult smallmouth bass habitat were differentially affected by intra‐ and inter‐annual streamflow fluctuations. Maximum WUA for young‐of‐year and adults occurred at streamflows of 1.8 and 2.3 m3 s−1, respectively, and WUA declined sharply for both groups at lower streamflows. For most microhabitat variables, habitat availability was similar between years. Habitat suitability criteria developed in 1999 corresponded well with observed fish locations in 2000 for adult smallmouth bass but not for young‐of‐year fish. Our findings suggest that annual variation in habitat availability affects the predictive ability of habitat models for young‐of‐year smallmouth bass more than for adult smallmouth bass. Furthermore, our results showed that despite the dynamic nature of the gravel‐dominated, alluvial Baron Fork, HSC for smallmouth bass were consistent and transferable between years. Published in 2008 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Summarizing differences in cumulative incidence functions
Authors: Zhang Mei‐Jie , Fine Jason
Published: June 2008

The cumulative incidence function is widely reported in competing risks studies, with group differences assessed by an extension of the log‐rank test. However, simple, interpretable summaries of group differences are not available. An adaptation of the proportional hazards model to the cumulative incidence function is often employed, but the interpretation of the hazard ratio may be somewhat awkward, unlike the usual survival set‐up. We propose nonparametric inferences for general summary measures, which may be time‐varying, and for time‐averaged versions of the measures. Theoretical justification is provided using counting process techniques. A real data example illustrates the practical utility of the methods. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incidence of Extensor Digitorum Brevis Manus Muscle
Authors: Ranade Anu V. , Rai Rajalakshmi , Prabhu Latha V. , Rajanigandha V. , Prakash  , Janardhanan Jiji P. , Ramanathan Lakshmi , Prameela M. D.
Published: June 2008

The extensor digitorum brevis manus, a supernumerary muscle in the fourth extensor compartment of the dorsum of the wrist, is a relatively rare anomalous muscle. Extensor digitorum brevis should be included in the differential diagnosis of soft tissue masses on the dorsal aspect of the hand as it may mimic cystic, neoplastic, inflammatory, and infectious masses arising in the dorsum of the wrist. Seventy-two upper limbs of male and female cadavers were dissected and examined to study the pattern of extensor tendons of the index finger. In the present study, we observed three cases (4.2%) of the extensor digitorum brevis manus on the left side. In one cadaver (0.72%), there was an additional tendon arising from the extensor indices which was inserted to the radial side of the dorsal digital expansion of the index finger. The extensor digitorum brevis manus muscle (EDBM), an anatomic variant of the extensor muscle of the dorsum of the hand, is found in approximately 2% to 3% of the population. This variation is, therefore, clinically and surgically relevant because the EDBM may be the only muscle responsible for the independent extension of the second digit. The aim of the present study is to report the incidences of this muscle thereby creating awareness of its existence and of its characteristic appearance to surgeons.
Salvage of a Thumb Replant Using a Bilobed Dorsal Metacarpal Artery Island Flap: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Saba Salim C. , Lee John , Pathy Vinod V. , Weber Renata V.
Published: June 2008

Amputations and degloving injuries of the hand are highly disabling, especially when they affect the thumb. Dorsal metacarpal artery (DMCA)-based flaps have been well-documented in the literature for use in extensive degloving injuries of both dorsal and palmar aspects of the thumb surface. Modifications on these flaps, such as the bilobed island flap, offer additional advantages when larger surface areas or more distal defects of the thumb are present. We present a review of the literature on the DMCA flap and describe its use to salvage a partial survival of a thumb amputation through the metacarpophalangeal joint.
Endopolyploidy in irradiated p53‐deficient tumour cell lines: Persistence of cell division activity in giant cells expressing Aurora‐B kinase
Authors: Erenpreisa Jekaterina , Ivanov Andrei , Wheatley Sally P. , Kosmacek Elizabeth A. , Ianzini Fiorenza , Anisimov Alim P. , Mackey Michael , Davis Paul J. , Plakhins Grigorijs , Illidge Timothy M.
Published: June 2008

Recent findings including computerised live imaging suggest that polyploidy cells transiently emerging after severe genotoxic stress (and named ‘endopolyploid cells’) may have a role in tumour regrowth after anti‐cancer treatment. Until now, mostly the factors enabling metaphase were studied in them. Here we investigate the mitotic activities and the role of Aurora‐B, in view of potential depolyploidisation of these cells, because Aurora‐B kinase is responsible for coordination and completion of mitosis. We observed that endopolyploid giant cells are formed via different means in irradiated p53 tumours, by: (1) division/fusion of daughter cells creating early multi‐nucleated cells; (2) asynchronous division/fusion of sub‐nuclei of these multi‐nucleated cells; (3) a series of polyploidising mitoses reverting replicative interphase from aborted metaphase and forming giant cells with a single nucleus; (4) micronucleation of arrested metaphases enclosing genome fragments; or (5) incomplete division in the multi‐polar mitoses forming late multi‐nucleated giant cells. We also observed that these activities can release para‐diploid cells, although infrequently. While apoptosis typically occurs after a substantial delay in these cells, we also found that ∼2% of the endopolyploid cells evade apoptosis and senescence arrest and continue some form of mitotic activity. We describe here that catalytically active Aurora‐B kinase is expressed in the nuclei of many endopolyploid cells in interphase, as well as being present at the centromeres, mitotic spindle and cleavage furrow during their attempted mitotes. The totally micronucleated giant cells (containing sub‐genomic fragments in multiple micronuclei) represented only the minor fraction which failed to undergo mitosis, and Aurora‐B was absent from it. These observations suggest that most endopolyploid tumour cells are not reproductively inert and that Aurora‐B may contribute to the establishment of resistant tumours post‐irradiation.
Percutaneous coronary intervention for acute MI does not prevent in‐hospital development of cardiogenic shock compared to fibrinolysis
Authors: Lindholm Matias G. , Boesgaard Søren , Thune Jens Jakob , Kelbaek Henning , Andersen Henning Rud , Kober Lars ,   DANAMI‐2 investigators
Published: June 2008

Background:

It has been speculated that invasive revascularization prevents development of cardiogenic shock. Data from randomised trials comparing angioplasty with fibrinolysis on the development of cardiogenic shock are lacking.

Aims:

To elucidate the effect of angioplasty on in‐hospital development of cardiogenic shock compared to fibrinolysis.

To evaluate whether mortality in patients who develop cardiogenic shock after treatment is dependent on revascularization strategy.

Methods and results:

DANAMI‐2 randomly assigned 1572 STEMI patients to fibrinolysis (782 patients) or angioplasty (790 patients). Data on patients with in‐hospital development of cardiogenic shock after randomisation were included. Of the 103 patients (6.6%) patients developing cardiogenic shock 57% were randomised to angioplasty with an unadjusted odds ratio of 1.39 (0.92–2.11, p=0.14). During the three year follow‐up 58% of the total mortality was due to cardiogenic shock, and treatment strategy did not influence the risk associated with shock (hazard ratio of 1.05 (0.67–1.64) for angioplasty vs. fibrinolysis).

Conclusions:

Angioplasty does not prevent the in‐hospital development of cardiogenic shock complicating acute MI compared to fibrinolysis. Cardiogenic shock is still the leading cause of death in patients hospitalised for acute MI. There was no difference in mortality, with regards to treatment strategy in patients developing cardiogenic shock after the initial treatment.
Reduced in vivo skeletal muscle oxygen consumption in patients with chronic heart failure—A study using Near Infrared Spectrophotometry (NIRS)
Authors: Abozguia Khalid , Phan Thanh Trung , Shivu Ganesh Nallur , Maher Abdul R. , Ahmed Ibrar , Wagenmakers Anton , Frenneaux Michael P.
Published: June 2008

Aim:

We used Near Infrared Spectrophotometry (NIRS) during arterial occlusion to measure resting skeletal muscle oxygen consumption in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients and in age‐matched healthy volunteers (HVs).

Methods:

Fifteen CHF patients (ten males) and eleven HVs (six males) had echocardiographic evaluation followed by measurement of the oxygen consumption of the brachioradialis muscle using NIRS. This involved continuous measurement of the oxygenated haemoglobin concentration ([Oxy‐Hb]) and deoxy‐haemoglobin concentration ([Deoxy‐Hb]) with an Oxiplex TS NIRS probe first under basal overnight fasted resting conditions followed by 1 min of forearm arterial occlusion. A linear decline was observed in [Oxy‐Hb–Deoxy‐Hb] during the arterial occlusion and the oxygen consumption rate was calculated from the initial slope observed.

Results:

CHF patients were 59±2.8 years old with Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction (LVEF) 31%±2.2 and the HVs were 52±4.8 years old with LVEF 62%±2.5. The resting muscle oxygen consumption rate was significantly reduced in CHF patients versus HVs (0.04±0.01 mlO2/min/100 g versus 0.07±0.01 mlO2/min/100 g) p<0.005.

Conclusions:

There is a significant reduction in resting oxygen consumption per gram of tissue in skeletal muscle of patients with CHF.
Facilitated neurotrophin release in sensitized human skin
Authors: Paterson Sarah , Schmelz Martin , McGlone Francis , Turner Graham , Rukwied Roman
Published: June 2008

The neurotrophins nerve growth factor (NGF) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) play a pivotal role in the generation and maintenance of hyperalgesia.

In the present study we analyzed NGF and BDNF levels in human skin of the upper arm and axilla skin sites by dermal microdialysis and multiplexed assay. Skin sensitization and inflammatory responses were evoked experimentally by repetitive shaving of one axilla provoking local erythema and reduced heat pain thresholds. Acute excitation of skin nociceptors was performed by perfusion of the microdialysis catheters with citric acid pH 3. At baseline, neurotrophin concentrations did not differ significantly between the investigated skin sites. On average, NGF concentration was 5.8fg/μg protein/ml sample volume and BDNF concentration was 87.5fg/μg/ml. Citric acid perfusion marginally increased NGF levels to 7.3fg/μg/ml on average in the upper arm and control axilla. Similarly, BDNF values increased at these control skin sites to about 122fg/μg/ml following proton stimulation. In contrast, perfusion of the inflamed axilla with citric acid significantly enhanced the release of both NGF and BDNF. On average, NGF levels were analyzed at 14.6fg/μg/ml and BDNF values at 202fg/μg/ml. These data demonstrate enhanced level of neurotrophin release in inflamed human skinin vivowhich might well contribute to peripheral sensitization. Analyses of neurotrophic factors by dermal microdialysis are useful endogenous markers to further explore their role in neuronal sensitization processes in human.
Characterization of conserved and novel microRNAs and their targets, including a TuMV‐induced TIR–NBS–LRR class R gene‐derived novel miRNA in Brassica
Authors: He Xiang-Feng , Fang Yuan-Yuan , Feng Lei , Guo Hui-Shan
Published: June 2008

Nine conserved miRNA families and three potential novel miRNAs in Brassica rapa were identified from a small RNA library. The expression patterns of some conserved miRNAs had different tissue specificity in Brassica and Arabidopsis. One of the three potential miRNAs, named bra‐miR1885, was verified as a true functional miRNA. It could be induced specifically by Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) infection, and target TIR–NBS–LRR class disease‐resistant transcripts for cleavage. Based on the hypothesis for de novo generation of new miRNA genes and the sequence similarity between bra‐MIR1885 precursor loci and target transcript sequences, we suggest that bra‐MIR1885 is a new miRNA gene that originated through inverted duplication events from TIR–NBS–LRR class disease‐resistant protein‐coding gene sequences, which became bra‐miR1885 targets.
Nestin‐positive cells in the spinal cord: a potential source of neural stem cells
Authors: Xu Renshi , Wu Chengsi , Tao Yuhui , Yi Juan , Yang Yunzhu , Zhang Xiong , Liu Rugao
Published: June 2008

Some literatures have reported neural precursor cells (NPCs) exist in spinal cord of adult mammal, however, the NPCs distribution feature in spinal cord of adult mice so far is not described in detail. In order to observe and compare the distribution feature of NPCs in various spinal cord regions of adult mice, to research a potential source of neural stem cells (NSCs), we obtained NPCs distribution feature by analyzing the distribution of the nestin‐containing cells (NCCs) in spinal cord of adult nestin second‐intron enhancer controlled LacZ reporter transgenic mice (pNes‐Tg) with LacZ staining and positive cell quantification. The results showed that: NCCs were observed in various regions of spinal cord of adult mice, but amount of NCCs was different in distinct region, the rank order of NCCs amount in various spinal cord regions was dorsal horn region greater than central canal greater than the ventral and lateral horn. NCCs in dorsal horn region mainly distributed in substantia gelatinosa, NCCs in central canal mainly distributed in ependymal zone, on the contrary, NCCs in ventral, lateral horn, medullae, nucleus regions of spinal cord were comparatively less. The rank order of NCCs amount in various spinal cord segments was cervical segment greater than lumbar sacral segment greater than thoracic segment. There was no significantly difference between NCCs amount in the left and right sides, and within cervical 1–7, thoracic 1–12, lumbar 1–5, sacral segment of spinal cord in adult mice. These data collectively indicate that NPCs extensively distribute in various regions of spinal cord of adult mice, especially in substantia gelatinosa and ependymal zone. NPCs in cervical segment are abundant, NPCs in thoracic segment are the least while compared the different spinal cord segment, the NPCs in various regions of spinal cord of adult mice are a potential source of NSCs.
Impact of type 2 diabetes on manifestations and treatment outcome of pulmonary tuberculosis
Authors: WANG C. S. , YANG C. J. , CHEN H. C. , CHUANG S. H. , CHONG I. W. , HWANG J. J. , HUANG M. S.
Published: June 2008

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a known risk factor for pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB). This study aimed to determine if type 2 DM alters manifestations and treatment outcome of PTB. Records of 217 consecutive culture-proven PTB patients were analysed retrospectively. The manifestations and treatment outcomes of 74 patients with type 2 DM (PTB-DM group) were compared to 143 patients without DM (PTB group). PTB-DM patients showed higher frequencies of fever, haemoptysis, positive acid-fast bacilli sputum smears, and consolidation, cavity, and lower lung field lesions on chest radiographs, and higher mortality rate. Furthermore, type 2 DM, age ⩾65 years, and extensive radiographic disease were factors independently associated with an unfavorable outcome. This study confirmed that clinical manifestations and chest radiographs of PTB patients associated with type 2 DM significantly depart from the typical presentation. Type 2 DM seems to have a negative effect on treatment outcome of PTB.
A multi-state outbreak of Salmonella Saintpaul in Australia associated with cantaloupe consumption
Authors: MUNNOCH S. A. , WARD K. , SHERIDAN S. , FITZSIMMONS G. J. , SHADBOLT C. T. , PIISPANEN J. P. , WANG Q. , WARD T. J. , WORGAN T. L. M. , OXENFORD C. , MUSTO J. A. , McANULTY J. , DURRHEIM D. N.
Published: June 2008

A multi-state outbreak of Salmonella enterica serovar Saintpaul infection occurred in Australia during October 2006. A case-control study conducted in three affected jurisdictions, New South Wales, Victoria and Australian Capital Territory, included 36 cases with the outbreak-specific strain of S. Saintpaul identified by multiple locus variable-number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) in a faecal specimen and 106 controls. Consumption of cantaloupe (rockmelon) was strongly associated with illness (adjusted OR 23·9 95%, 95% CI 5·1–112·4). S. Saintpaul, with the outbreak MLVA profile, was detected on the skin of two cantaloupes obtained from an implicated retailer. Trace-back investigations did not identify the specific source of the outbreak strain of S. Saintpaul, but multiple Salmonella spp. were detected in environmental samples from farms and packing plants investigated during the trace-back operation. Cantaloupe production and processing practices pose a potential public health threat requiring regulatory and community educational interventions.
The Colbert Bump in Campaign Donations: More Truthful than
Truthy
Authors: Fowler James H.
Published: June 2008

Stephen Colbert hosts a comedy television program called The Colbert
Report (the t at the end is silent—both of them!) in which he
parodies personality-based news shows like The O'Reilly Factor that have
become popular during the last 10 years. In an effort to make fun of these (usually
conservative) personalities who engage in non-stop self-promotion, Colbert frequently trades
outlandish claims for laughs. Among these is the claim that anyone who comes on the
Report receives the “Colbert bump,” immediately vaulting the guest to
stardom, fame, and fortune. Like Midas turning everything he touches to gold, Stephen
Colbert can turn losers into winners, just by interviewing them on his show (but, ahem, he
would never actually interview a loser now would he?).
Information They Can Trust: Increasing Youth Voter Turnout at the
University
Authors: Bogard Cynthia J. , Sheinheit Ian , Clarke Reneé P.
Published: June 2008

In the 2004 presidential election, perhaps 54% of the nation's youngest cohort—dubbed
“Generation Next” by some pollsters—cast a vote. This was a substantial increase over the
42% of eligible 18–25-year-olds who voted in the 2000 election (U.S. Census Bureau 2005; Pew Center 2007). Still, youth voting rates lagged behind the voting rates of those citizens
older than 25–66% made their way to the polls on Election Day in 2004 (Lopez, Kirby, and
Sagoff 2005). It is likely that voting rates will
increase in the current youth cohort as they age, as has happened in both the Baby Boomer
and Generation X cohorts. But transforming more of the large Generation Next cohort into
voters earlier in adulthood could substantially increase democratic participation in
upcoming elections and for decades to come, as habits of civic participation developed in
youth often last a lifetime (Miller and Shanks 1996). Two-thirds of young people now enroll in some form of higher education.
Colleges and universities of all types would therefore seem to be natural sites to mount
efforts to improve youth voter turnout. And because interest in voting among the youngest
adult cohort seems to be on the rise, this would seem to be the time to encourage more of
such behavior. But how can institutions of higher learning best promote democratic
participation, especially voting?
Are the Nation's Leading Political Science Programs Practicing the Egalitarian Values Espoused inAmerican Democracy in an Age of Rising Inequality, And if Not, How Can They?
Authors: Oldfield Kenneth
Published: June 2008

The American Political Science Association (APSA) has roughly 14,000 members. In fall 2002, APSA appointed a “Task Force on Inequality and American Democracy” (TFIAD). The group's 15 members represented various prestigious American universities, including, for example, Harvard, Stanford, Princeton, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. TFIAD was tasked with assessing the relationship between economic inequality in America and changes in political participation rates in our representative democracy.
The Equalizing Effect of the Internet on Access to Research Expertise in
Political Science and Economics
Authors: Butler Daniel M. , Butler Richard J. , Rich Jesse T.
Published: June 2008

Recent research shows that the Internet, by sharply reducing the real costs of sharing
information, has profoundly impacted collaboration between faculty in different departments.
Using information on spatial-temporal Bitnet connections, Agrawal and Goldfarb (2006) find that Internet connectivity increased
collaboration between those connected universities by 85%. Extensively analyzing faculty
productivity at the top 25 universities during the last three decades, Kim, Morse, and
Zingales (2006) report that the Internet has
significantly lowered department-specific research externalities in economics and finance by
giving those outside of top schools access to productive research colleagues within top
schools. Concomitant with this decline in location-specific externalities, they also report
that salaries at those top universities have increased since the universities are less able
to appropriate any rent based on research productivity created by physically being located
at that university. One of the reasons that physical location is less important is e-mail.
Walsh and Maloney (2003), using information from
four fields (experimental biology, mathematics, physics, and sociology), find that e-mail
has significantly reduced coordination problems in research collaboration.
Doing Good and Doing Well: Teaching Research-Paper Writing by Unpacking the Paper
Authors: Baglione Lisa
Published: June 2008

Learning how to write a research paper is an important skill for political science majors, and faculty can also benefit when their students develop their research-paper-writing talents. Few departments, however, teach these skills explicitly, and many curricula seem to be based on the assumption that students will arrive at college with adequate basic writing skills. Several programs also suppose that a major will develop the ability to write a research paper through her experience with political science and other courses. These expectations are faulty, as most students are not “proficient” writers when they move to campus (McGrath 2004; NCWASC 2003, 16–7; Persky, Daane, and Jin 2003, 20–1), and writing a research paper in political science is a specific skill set that must be developed (Scholes 1998, 95; Russell 2002, 9–10). The approach I advocate here is to demystify the paper and the process for students by identifying and explaining the different parts of a typical paper—introduction, literature review, model and hypothesis, research design, analysis and assessment, and conclusion—and showing how the paper-writing process is broken into manageable tasks. While faculty know the components of research papers, most students have no idea what these sections should contain or what their titles mean. In addition, because revision and editing are essential general writing skills linked with the overall substantive learning process (NCWASC 2003, 1, 9; Maimon 2002, x), I suggest that students submit their papers in pieces, benefiting from feedback from faculty, peers, and themselves. In this essay, I unpack the parts of the paper and the writing process, providing suggestions for teaching about these segments and integrating research-paper-writing skills into the curriculum.
2008 APSA Teaching and Learning Track Summaries—Track One: Program
Assessment
Authors: Hail Michael W. , Leithner Anika Cornelia , Mullen Paul Fabian , Wilkerson William R.
Published: June 2008

If the presentations and discussions of the Program Assessment track are any indication,
assessment in political science is slowly moving forward. Several presentations provided
excellent ideas for instructors and departments seeking to get started and move beyond to
take assessment seriously. Presenters and discussants were a mix of veterans and newcomers
to assessment from a range of institutions, but the group largely shared an understanding
that assessment done well is really a conversation about teaching. Teaching political
science is something that we all care about.
Reply to Dr. Arrington
Authors: Kastellec Jonathan D. , Gelman Andrew , Chandler Jaime P.
Published: June 2008

We thank Dr. Arrington for his kind words about our article. In this letter we respond to
his two main criticisms: that our use of the term bias in describing the
situation facing the Democratic Party in 2006 is misleading and that using total vote to
assess the results of the election is preferable to using average district vote, as we did
in the article.
2008 APSA Teaching and Learning Track Summaries—Track Two: Graduate Education
and Professional Development
Authors: Casey W. T. , Jones Sharon , Lowham Elizabeth , Thies Cameron G.
Published: June 2008

How well do we prepare our graduate students for the diverse careers they pursue in
teaching, research, and outside of academia? This is the second time Graduate Education has
been a track in the TLC, and this year we have also incorporated topics related to
professional development. Despite the diversity of our presentations, we arrived at a
unifying theme for our track: we must prepare graduate students for the multiple arenas they
will enter into after graduation. We discussed at length how most of our graduate students
seek something other than the traditional, research-oriented model of graduate education
that we experienced. They seek a graduate experience that is civically engaged, prepares
them for teaching in addition to research, and is perhaps more connected to disciplines
outside of political science. Either we provide graduate students a framework of knowledge
consistent with these demands or they will be left to develop these skills through trial and
error alone. In support of this goal, we urge systemic change to our professional
institutions that will value and reward a more holistic approach to graduate education and
professional development. Elements of such change can be found in the variety of
presentations contained in our track.
2008 APSA Teaching and Learning Track Summaries—Track Four: Teaching Research
Methods
Authors: Dion Michelle , Coxe Leland M. , Carne Margaret
Published: June 2008

A diverse group of 25 faculty and graduate students participated in the 2008 Teaching
Research Methods (TRM) track. Participants represented a range of institutions—public and
private, urban and rural, domestic and international, large research universities and
teaching colleges. Presentations provided evidence of the heterogeneity in methods
instruction and of pedagogical innovations in course design and delivery. The discussion in
this year's meeting echoed and built upon prior meetings, reflecting the workshop format and
participation of several track members in successive TLC meetings. The recommendations
formulated by the track will be discussed following a brief summary of the presentations and
discussion.
2008 APSA Teaching and Learning Track Summaries—Track Five: Simulations and
Role Play I
Authors: Raymond Chad , Vaughan Denise
Published: June 2008

The Simulations and Role Play I track examined a broad range of approaches to classroom
simulations and role-playing exercises. The presentations covered designs that operate
online and face-to-face, model decision making at local and international levels, and run
from only a few minutes to an entire semester. Participants and discussants identified
several elements that are common to successful simulations. These elements included
establishing clear objectives for a simulation prior to its use in a course, designing
simulations to actively engage students in the learning process, and using simulations to
develop professional skills, empathy, and intercultural understanding among students. The
track members agreed that simulations need not be time intensive in preparation or
presentation, but can be flexible and made to fit unique situations. Finally, while
simulations may not increase student perceptions of the quality of instruction, the
simulations do seem to increase student empathy and student decision-making skills, which
are worthwhile achievements.
2008 APSA Teaching and Learning Track Summaries—Track Seven: Core
Curriculum/General Education
Authors: Ainuson Kweku , Ulbig Stacy G.
Published: June 2008

The Core Curriculum/General Education track comprised a wide range of institutions,
different areas of expertise, and levels of teaching. Institutions represented were both
private and public, and four year colleges and community colleges. Participants were made up
of seasoned and experienced teachers, novice teachers, and graduate students. Presenters
described their innovative teaching techniques and how they could be effectively employed
both inside and outside the classroom. Presentations gave rise to the discussion of various
teaching methods and how to tailor the techniques to fit specific needs. In the ensuing
discussion one thing became apparent. The goal of the successful teacher is to engage
students in a number of ways.
2008 APSA Teaching and Learning Track Summaries—Track Eleven:
Internationalizing the Curriculum I
Authors: Bromley Pam , Walker Gloria
Published: June 2008

The participants in Internationalizing the Curriculum I took a multi-level approach to
considering the challenges of incorporating global issues into higher education. Our
discussion—facilitated by track moderator Pamela Zeiser (University of North
Florida)—focused primarily on the challenges of internationalizing the curriculum on four
levels: the student, the course, the program, and the institution. Within this general
framework the group addressed many related pedagogical issues, such as active learning, the
role of technology, the effective use of distance learning, and how each complements or
challenges the learning environment and the goal of internationalizing the curriculum.
2008 APSA Teaching and Learning Track Summaries—Track Twelve:
Internationalizing the Curriculum II
Authors: Choudary Maqsood , Narasimhan Angela Gail , Wright Nancy
Published: June 2008

Recent technological changes, particularly in the field of communications, have brought
the world much closer than ever in the history of humankind. These changes, sometimes called
globalization, require a paradigm shift in our thinking, teaching materials, and methods of
delivery. This quantum leap is required not only in the subfield of international relations,
but rather in all subfields of political science. There is also a dire need to learn from
each others' experiences and give new direction to our teaching subfields.
School randomised trial on prevention of excessive weight gain by discouraging students from drinking sodas
Authors: Sichieri Rosely , Paula Trotte Ana , de Souza Rita Adriana , Veiga Gloria V
Published: June 2008

Objective

To determine whether an educational programme aimed at discouraging students from drinking sugar-sweetened beverages could prevent excessive weight gain.

Design

Forty-seven classes in twenty-two schools were randomised as intervention or control.

Subjects

Participants were 1140, 9–12-year-old fourth graders (435 in the intervention group and 608 in the control group). Sugar-sweetened beverages and juice intake were measured through one 24 h recall at baseline and another at the end of the trial. The main outcome was the change in BMI (BMI = weight (kg)/height (m2)), measured at the beginning and at the end of the school year. Intention-to-treat analysis was performed taking into account the cluster (classes) effect.

Results

A statistically significant decrease in the daily consumption of carbonated drinks in the intervention compared to control (mean difference = −56 ml; 95 % CI −119, −7 ml) was followed by a non-significant overall reduction in BMI, P = 0·33. However, among those students overweight at baseline, the intervention group showed greater BMI reduction (−0·4 kg/m2 compared with −0·2 kg/m2 in the control group (P = 0·11)), and this difference was statistically significant among girls (P = 0·009). Fruit juice consumption was slightly increased in the intervention group (P = 0·08), but not among girls.

Conclusion

Decreasing sugar-sweetened beverages intake significantly reduced BMI among overweight children, and mainly among girls. Efforts to reduce energy intake through liquids need to emphasise overall sweetened beverages and addition of sugar on juices.
Selected-Area Growth of Carbon Nanotubes by the Combination of
Focused Ion Beam and Chemical Vapor Deposition Techniques
Authors: Jiao Jun , Dong Lifeng , Foxley Sean , Mosher Catherine L. , Tuggle David W.
Published: June 2008

In this article, we report a technique for growing carbon nanotubes
in a more controllable fashion, which enables us to synthesize
nanotubes directly in various forms of designed patterns. This
nanofabrication process is based on a combination of focused ion beam
(FIB) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) techniques. In this process,
arrays of conductive patterns were first deposited on silicon
substrates by directing a gaseous compound
(C9H16Pt) via the capillary needle-sized nozzles
within a FIB system. The substrates were then coated with catalyst and
further modified by the FIB to localize the position of the catalyst.
Finally, the growth of carbon nanotubes on the designed substrates was
carried out by CVD of hydrocarbon gases. This fabrication technique has
the advantage of positioning carbon nanotubes in selected locations.
This may open up opportunities for the direct synthesis of carbon
nanotubes onto almost any substrate material, thus allowing fabrication
of carbon nanotube-based devices.
Trends in US Emergency Department Visits for Suicide Attempts, 1992–2001
Authors: Larkin Gregory Luke , Smith Rebecca P. , Beautrais Annette L.
Published: June 2008

This article describes trends in suicide attempt visits to emergency departments in the United States (US). Data were obtained from the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey using mental-health-related ICD-9-CM, E and V codes, and mental-health reasons for visit. From 1992 to 2001, mental-health-related visits increased 27.5% from 17.1 to 23.6 per 1000 (p < .001). Emergency Department (ED) visits for suicide attempt and self injury increased by 47%, from 0.8 to 1.5 visits per 1000 US population (ptrend = .04). Suicide-attempt-related visits increased significantly among males over the decade and among females from 1992/1993 to 1998/1999. Suicide attempt visits increased in non-Hispanic whites, patients under 15 years or those between 50–69 years of age, and the privately insured. Hospitalization rates for suicide attempt-related ED visits declined from 49% to 32% between 1992 and 2001 (p = .04). Suicide attempt-related visits increased significantly in urban areas, but in rural areas suicide attempt visits stayed relatively constant, despite significant rural decreases in mental-health related visits overall. Ten-year regional increases in suicide attempt-related visits were significant for the West and Northeast only. US emergency departments have witnessed increasing rates of ED visits for suicide attempts during a decade of significant reciprocal decreases in postattempt hospitalization. Emergency departments are increasingly important sites for identifying, assessing and treating individuals with suicidal behavior.
A Pilot Study of the Suicide Victim’s Last Contact with a Health Professional
Authors: Draper Brian , Snowdon John , Wyder Marianne
Published: June 2008

Suicide victims frequently have contact with health care professionals in the months before death. The primary aims of this pilot psychological autopsy study were to determine the feasibility of undertaking a full study and to describe the characteristics of the last health care professional contacts with suicide victims aged > 34 years. We interviewed the informants of 52 suicides. Interviews were obtained from 37 health care professionals who had contact with 28 of the suicides during the 3 months before death. The primary reasons for the last contact with the health care professional were mental health (62%), physical health (22%), and social (14%). 87% of health care professional contacts occurred within 1 month of death. Symptoms of depression were noted in 49% of health care professional contacts. Consensus psychological autopsy diagnoses of depression were made in 64% of suicide victims. Overall suicide risk was assessed by 38% of health care professionals during their last contact. This was more likely to occur when the deceased presented as depressed, was aged < 60 years or seen by a psychiatrist. None was assessed to be suicidal. The family informants regarded nine of the suicide victims to have been suicidal before death but informed a health care professional in only one third of the cases. Critical information that might have altered the management is not often accessed from family members.
Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinases Protect Blood—Brain Barrier Disruption in Focal Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Fujimoto Motoaki , Takagi Yasushi , Aoki Tomohiro , Hayase Makoto , Marumo Takeshi , Gomi Masanori , Nishimura Masaki , Kataoka Hiroharu , Hashimoto Nobuo , Nozaki Kazuhiko
Published: June 2008

Enhanced matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) can cause vasogenic edema and hemorrhagic transformation after cerebral ischemia, and affect the extent of ischemic injury. We hypothesized that the endogenous MMP inhibitors, tissue inhibitor of MMPs (TIMPs), were essential to protect against blood—brain barrier (BBB) disruption after ischemia by regulating the activities of MMPs. We confirmed the transition of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and the TIMPs family after 30 mins of middle cerebral artery occlusion, and elucidated the function of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 in focal ischemia, using TIMP-1−/−and TIMP-2−/− mice. TIMP-1 mRNA expression was gradually increased until 24 h after reperfusion. In TIMP-1−/− mice, MMP-9 protein expression and gelatinolytic activity were significantly more augmented after cerebral ischemia than those in WT mice, and were accompanied by exacerbated BBB disruption, neuronal apoptosis, and ischemic injury. In contrast, TIMP-2 gene deletion mice exhibited no significant difference in MMP expressions and the degree of ischemic injury despite an increased Evans blue leakage. These results suggest that TIMP-1 inhibits MMP-9 activity and can play a neuroprotective role in cerebral ischemia.
Post-translational enzyme modification by the phosphopantetheinyl transferase is required for lysine and penicillin biosynthesis but not for roquefortine or fatty acid formation in Penicillium chrysogenum
Authors: García-Estrada Carlos , Ullán Ricardo V. , Velasco-Conde Tania , Godio Ramiro P. , Teijeira Fernando , Vaca Inmaculada , Feltrer Raúl , Kosalková Katarina , Mauriz Elba , Martín Juan F.
Published: June 2008

NRPSs (non-ribosomal peptide synthetases) and PKSs (polyketide synthases) require post-translational phosphopantetheinylation to become active. This reaction is catalysed by a PPTase (4′-phosphopantetheinyl transferase). The ppt gene of Penicillium chrysogenum, encoding a protein that shares 50% similarity with the stand-alone large PPTases, has been cloned. This gene is present as a single copy in the genome of the wild-type and high-penicillin-producing strains (containing multiple copies of the penicillin gene cluster). Amplification of the ppt gene produced increases in isopenicillin N and benzylpenicillin biosynthesis. A PPTase-defective mutant (Wis54-PPT−) was obtained. It required lysine and lacked pigment and penicillin production, but it still synthesized normal levels of roquefortine. The biosynthesis of roquefortine does not appear to involve PPTase-mediated modification of the synthesizing enzymes. The PPT− mutant did not require fatty acids, which indicates that activation of the fatty acid synthase is performed by a different PPTase. Complementation of Wis54-PPT− with the ppt gene restored lysine biosynthesis, pigmentation and penicillin production, which demonstrates the wide range of processes controlled by this gene.