bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Disciples of the Deep Desert: Windesheim Biographers and the Imitation of the Desert Fathers
Authors: van Dijk Mathilde
Published: November 2006

This article examines how biographers from the Chapter of Windesheim construed their brothers and sisters as the new desert fathers. In the Devotio Moderna, these first hermits, monks, and nuns were regarded as the epitomes of what true piety was about. Windesheim biographers like John Busch put their subjects forward as the new practitioners of true piety, as it had been coined by the desert fathers. But what did this mean to them? How did they interpret the desert father material? How did they use it to create new examples for religious practice?
The Hydrologic Feedback Pathway for Land–Climate Coupling
Authors: Dirmeyer Paul A.
Published: November 2006

The impact of improvements in land surface initialization and specification of observed rainfall in global climate model simulations of boreal summer are examined to determine how the changes propagate around the hydrologic cycle in the coupled land–atmosphere system. On the global scale, about 70% of any imparted signal in the hydrologic cycle is lost in the transition from atmosphere to land, and 70% of the remaining signal is lost from land to atmosphere. This means that globally, less than 10% of the signal of any change survives the complete circuit of the hydrologic cycle in this model. Regionally, there is a great deal of variability. Specification of observed precipitation to the land component of the climate model strongly communicates its signal to soil wetness in rainy regions, but predictive skill in evapotranspiration arises primarily in dry regions. A maximum in signal transmission to model precipitation exists in between, peaking where mean rainfall rates are 1.5–2 mm day−1. It appears that the nature of the climate system inherently limits to these regions the potential impact on prediction of improvements in the ability of models to simulate the water cycle. Land initial conditions impart a weaker signal on the system than replacement of precipitation, so a weaker response is realized in the system, focused mainly in dry regions.
Simulation of Global Land Surface Conditions from 1948 to 2004. Part I: Forcing Data and Evaluations
Authors: Qian Taotao , Dai Aiguo , Trenberth Kevin E. , Oleson Keith W.
Published: November 2006

Because of a lack of observations, historical simulations of land surface conditions using land surface models are needed for studying variability and changes in the continental water cycle and for providing initial conditions for seasonal climate predictions. Atmospheric forcing datasets are also needed for land surface model development. The quality of atmospheric forcing data greatly affects the ability of land surface models to realistically simulate land surface conditions. Here a carefully constructed global forcing dataset for 1948–2004 with 3-hourly and T62 (∼1.875°) resolution is described, and historical simulations using the latest version of the Community Land Model version 3.0 (CLM3) are evaluated using available observations of streamflow, continental freshwater discharge, surface runoff, and soil moisture. The forcing dataset was derived by combining observation-based analyses of monthly precipitation and surface air temperature with intramonthly variations from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction–National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCEP–NCAR) reanalysis, which is shown to have spurious trends and biases in surface temperature and precipitation. Surface downward solar radiation from the reanalysis was first adjusted for variations and trends using monthly station records of cloud cover anomaly and then for mean biases using satellite observations during recent decades. Surface specific humidity from the reanalysis was adjusted using the adjusted surface air temperature and reanalysis relative humidity. Surface wind speed and air pressure were interpolated directly from the 6-hourly reanalysis data. Sensitivity experiments show that the precipitation adjustment (to the reanalysis data) leads to the largest improvement, while the temperature and radiation adjustments have only small effects.

When forced by this dataset, the CLM3 reproduces many aspects of the long-term mean, annual cycle, interannual and decadal variations, and trends of streamflow for many large rivers (e.g., the Orinoco, Changjiang, Mississippi, etc.), although substantial biases exist. The simulated long-term-mean freshwater discharge into the global and individual oceans is comparable to 921 river-based observational estimates. Observed soil moisture variations over Illinois and parts of Eurasia are generally simulated well, with the dominant influence coming from precipitation. The results suggest that the CLM3 simulations are useful for climate change analysis. It is also shown that unrealistically low intensity and high frequency of precipitation, as in most model-simulated precipitation or observed time-averaged fields, result in too much evaporation and too little runoff, which leads to lower than observed river flows. This problem can be reduced by adjusting the precipitation rates using observed-precipitation frequency maps.
Mapping “At Risk” Snow in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Nolin Anne W. , Daly Christopher
Published: November 2006

One of the most visible and widely felt impacts of climate warming is the change (mostly loss) of low-elevation snow cover in the midlatitudes. Snow cover that accumulates at temperatures close to the ice-water phase transition is at greater risk to climate warming than cold climate snowpacks because it affects both precipitation phase and ablation rates. This study maps areas in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States that are potentially at risk of converting from a snow-dominated to a rain-dominated winter precipitation regime, under a climate-warming scenario. A data-driven, climatological approach of snow cover classification is used to reveal these “at risk” snow zones and also to examine the relative frequency of warm winters for the region. For a rain versus snow temperature threshold of 0°C the at-risk snow class covers an area of about 9200 km2 in the Pacific Northwest region and represents approximately 6.5 km3 of water. Many areas of the Pacific Northwest would see an increase in the number of warm winters, but the impacts would likely be concentrated in the Cascade and Olympic Ranges. A number of lower-elevation ski areas could experience negative impacts because of the shift from winter snows to winter rains. The results of this study point to the potential for using existing datasets to better understand the potential impacts of climate warming.
Predictors of Adherence Within an Intervention Research Study of the At-Risk Older Drinker: PRISM-E
Authors: Zanjani Faika , Zubritsky Cynthia , Mullahy Marian , Oslin David
Published: November 2006

The aim of this study was to determine predictors of research adherence and treatment initiation in at-risk older drinkers. This investigation was conducted at primary care clinics in the Philadelphia Veteran Affairs Medical Center and the University of Pennsylvania, participating sites in a larger multisite study trial (PRISM-E). Persons aged 65 and older with appointments at participating clinics were eligible for recruitment (n = 8367). Approximately half (n = 4000) consented to the study, of which 145 were identified as at-risk drinkers and 125 agreed to treatment. Slightly more than half of the patients who agreed to treatment attended a mental health visit. The results suggest that predictors of research adherence and treatment initiation vary across research stage. Principal predictors include age, mental health status, and at-risk drinking attributes. Moreover, there was evidence that an integrated care treatment model may be capable of improving treatment initiation in at-risk older drinkers who have no history of substance management behaviors. Future researchers can use the current findings to create mechanisms to improve research participation and treatment initiation and target participants with classifications of poor adherence.
Successful Aging
Authors: Robson Sean M. , Hansson Robert O. , Abalos Anthony , Booth Melissa
Published: November 2006

Career theory, to date, has provided several frameworks for understanding how employees develop during their careers. However, these frameworks have not yet directly examined the criteria older workers use to evaluate their success in aging in the workplace. In the present study, the authors develop an inventory of tentative criteria for successful aging in the workplace. Two hundred and one working adults complete a self-report survey indicating the personal importance of each criterion. Factor analyses indicate five theoretically important domains for successful aging in the workplace: (a) adaptability and health, (b) positive relationships, (c) occupational growth, (d) personal security, and (e) continued focus and achievement of personal goals. Analyses indicate that only occupational growth is negatively related to age. Further evidence supporting the relevance of these criteria is also presented.
Rural Appalachian Youth’s Vocational/Educational Postsecondary Aspirations
Authors: Ali Saba Rasheed , McWhirter Ellen Hawley
Published: November 2006

This study investigates the relationship between postsecondary aspirations and vocational/educational self-efficacy beliefs, outcome expectations, perceived educational barriers, and sources of support among a sample of rural Appalachian high school students. Using Social Cognitive Career Theory as the theoretical framework, vocational/educational aspirations are examined in terms of four specific postsecondary pathways common to rural Appalachian students (work, vocational technical, bachelor’s only, and professional). Results indicated vocational/educational self-efficacy beliefs, college outcome expectations, likelihood of encountering barriers to postsecondary education, and socioeconomic status contribute significantly to the discriminant function predicting the post-secondary pathways. This research extends previous work in this area by examining an understudied group, rural Appalachian adolescents. Implications of the results and suggestions for future research are provided.
Increased cervical dysplasia in intravenous cyclophosphamidetreated patients with SLE: a preliminary study
Authors: Bateman H , Yazici Y , Leff L , Peterson M , Paget S A
Published: November 2006

To determine if intravenous cyclophosphamide (IV-C) causes an excess of cervical dysplasia and/or cancer in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients, a retrospective review was conducted. Patients with SLE who received IV-C between 1988–98 (study group) were compared with a group of SLE patients who had not received IV-C (control group).

Of the 79 IV-C-treated SLE patients identified, we excluded 18 because of absence of pertinent data. We found 10 cases of cervical dysplasia in the remaining 61 patients, compared to 2 in 49 non-exposed patients (P < 0.04). Comparison of the two groups revealed no difference in: mean years of disease duration, months of follow-up and age. The non-exposed patients were more likely to be on estrogen and hydroxychloroquine but less often on steroids and azathioprine. The study group with and without dysplasia were assessed; we found no difference in the mean, or total IV-C dose, smoking and estrogen use. There was a significant decrease in time to dysplasia in those, given IV-C, with previous dysplasia compared to those without.

These preliminary data suggests that IV-C causes an increased number of abnormal Papanicolaou (Pap) smears in SLE patients, particularly those with previous dysplasia.
Gender and nitric oxide-mediated vasodilation in humans
Authors: Dietz N M
Published: November 2006

Background: We compared forearm vasodilator responses between females and males after administration of compounds that stimulate nitric oxide (NO) release, act as NO donors, or are NO independent.

Methods and results: We studied nine premenopausal females and nine age-matched males. Forearm blood flow (FBF) was measured with plethysmography. Graded doses of the endothelial dependent vasodilators acetylcholine and bradykinin and the endothelial-independent vasodilator sodium nitroprusside were given via a brachial artery catheter to the non-dominant arm. Reactive hyperemia was measured as an index of NO-independent vasodilation. In females estradiol levels were greater, and serum triglycerides were lower, but cholesterol was similar to that of males. FBF responses to all doses of the three drugs were ' 30% less in females. Females had smaller forearms and lower peak FBF during reactive hyperemia. Blood flow responses to the drugs as a fraction of the peak reactive hyperemia values were similar in females and males. In the females, but not in the males, FBF responses to all three drugs and reactive hyperemia correlated with estradiol levels. Conclusions: The smaller FBF responses in females were likely due to smaller forearm volume and muscle mass. Estradiol levels are associated with both NO-mediated and non-NO-mediated dilator responses in females.
Anti-endothelial cell IgG fractions from systemic lupus erythematosus patients bind to human endothelial cells and induce a pro-adhesive and a pro-infiammatory phenotype in vitro
Authors: Papa N Del , Raschi E , Moroni G , Panzeri P , Borghi M O , Ponticelli C , Tincani A , Balestrieri G , Meroni P L
Published: November 2006

Affinity purified immunoglobulin G (IgG) fractions from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients positive for anti-endothelial cell antibodies (AECA) bind human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVEC) monolayers. In vitro incubation of serial protein concentrations of SLE AECA IgG induces a dose-dependent endothelial activation: i) increase of functional adhesion of the monocytic cell line U937; ii) upregulation of E-Selectin, ICAM-1, VCAM-1 expression evaluated by a cell solid-phase enzyme linked immunoassay; and iii) increased secretion of interleukin (IL)-6 in the culture supernatants. Control experiments carried out with HUVEC monolayers incubated with IgG fractions from normal healthy controls or from AECA negative SLE sera do not affect at all endothelial adhesion molecule expression or pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion. The AECA IgG effects are not related to both anti-phospholipid or anti-DNA activities.

Taken together the findings suggest that these autoantibodies might be important in recruiting and in activating mononuclear leukocytes responsible for vessel wall infiltration and raise the possibility that AECA might display a pathogenic role in SLE vessel damage.
A Combined Treatment Approach for Adults With ADHD—Results of an Open Study of 43 Patients
Authors: Rostain Anthony L. , Ramsay J. Russell
Published: November 2006

Objective: Increasing numbers of adults are seeking treatment for ADHD. Pharmacotherapy is well established as the first line treatment for adult ADHD, although medications alone may be insufficient treatment for the myriad problems experienced by these patients. Few studies have examined the clinical outcomes of a combination of pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy for this clinical population. The purpose of the present study is to examine the potential effectiveness of the combination of pharmacotherapy and cognitive-behavior therapy modified to treat adult patients diagnosed with ADHD.

Method: Forty-three adults who underwent a structured diagnostic assessment for ADHD complete 6 months of combined treatment. Treatment outcome is assessed by comparing pre- and posttreatment measures of ADHD symptoms, comorbid symptoms, and ratings of overall functioning.

Results/Conclusion: Results indicate that combined treatment is associated with significant improvements on all clinical measures. Limitations of the study design and directions for future research are discussed.
Rapamycin is efficacious against primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) cell lines in vivo by inhibiting autocrine signaling
Authors: Sin Sang-Hoon , Roy Debasmita , Wang Ling , Staudt Michelle R. , Fakhari Farnaz D. , Patel Dhavalkumar D. , Henry David , Harrington William J. , Damania Blossom A. , Dittmer Dirk P.
Published: November 2006

The antitumor potency of the mTOR inhibitor rapamycin (sirolimus) is the subject of intense investigations. Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL) appears as an AIDS-defining lymphoma and like Kaposi sarcoma has been linked to Kaposi sarcoma–associated herpesvirus (KSHV). We find that (1) rapamycin is efficacious against PEL in culture and in a murine xenograft model; (2) mTOR, its activator Akt, and its target p70S6 kinase are phosphorylated in PEL; (3) rapamycin inhibits mTOR signaling as determined by S6 phosphorylation; (4) KSHV transcription is unaffected; (5) inhibition of IL-10 signaling correlates with drug sensitivity; and (6) addition of exogenous IL-10 or IL-6 can reverse the rapamycin growth arrest. This validates sirolimus as a new treatment option for PEL.
Pathologic consequences of STAT3 hyperactivation by IL-6 and IL-11 during hematopoiesis and lymphopoiesis
Authors: Jenkins Brendan J. , Roberts Andrew W. , Greenhill Claire J. , Najdovska Meri , Lundgren-May Therese , Robb Lorraine , Grail Dianne , Ernst Matthias
Published: November 2006

We have previously demonstrated that STAT3 hyperactivation via the interleukin 6 (IL-6) cytokine family receptor gp130 in gp130Y757F/Y757F mice leads to numerous hematopoietic and lymphoid pathologies, including neutrophilia, thrombocytosis, splenomegaly, and lymphadenopathy. Because IL-6 and IL-11 both signal via a gp130 homodimer, we report here a genetic approach to dissect their individual roles in these pathologies. Neutrophilia and thrombocytosis were absent in gp130Y757F/Y757F mice lacking either IL-6 (gp130Y757F/Y757F: IL-6−/−) or the IL-11 receptor α subunit (gp130Y757F/Y757F: IL-11Rα1−/−), and this was associated with a normalized bone marrow compartment. The elevated myelopoiesis and megakaryopoiesis in bone marrow of gp130Y757F/Y757F mice was attributable to an increase by either IL-6 or IL-11 in the STAT3-driven impairment of transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling, which is a suppressor of these lineages. In contrast, the absence of IL-6, but not IL-11 signaling, prevented the splenomegaly, abnormal lymphopoiesis, and STAT3 hyperactivation in lymphoid organs of gp130Y757F/Y757F mice. Furthermore, hyperactivation of STAT3 in lymphoid organs was associated with increased expression of IL-6Rα, and IL-6Rα expression was reduced in gp130Y757F/Y757F: Stat3+/− mice displaying normal levels of STAT3 activity. Collectively, these data genetically define distinct roles of IL-6 and IL-11 in driving pathologic hematopoietic and lymphoid responses mediated by STAT3 hyperactivation.
Is FKBP5 a genetic marker of affective psychosis? A case control study and analysis of disease related traits
Authors: Gawlik Micha , Moller-Ehrlich Kerstin , Mende Meinhard , Jovnerovski Michael , Jung Sven , Jabs Burkhard , Knapp Michael , Stoeber Gerald
Published: November 2006

Background

A dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis has been proposed as an important pathogenic factor in depression. Genetic variants of FKBP5, a protein of the HPA system modulating the glucocorticoid receptor, have been reported to be genetically associated with improved response to medical treatment and an increase of depressive episodes.

Methods

We examined three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in FKBP5, rs4713916 in the proposed promoter region, rs1360780 in the second intron and rs3800373 in the 3'-untranslated region (3'-UTR), in a case-control study of Caucasian origin (affective psychosis: n = 248; controls: n = 188) for genetic association and association with disease related traits.

Results

Allele and genotype frequencies of rs4713916, rs1360780 and rs3800373 were not significantly different between cases and controls. Two three-locus haplotypes, G-C-T and A-T-G, accounted for 86.2% in controls. Odds ratios were not increased between cases and controls, except the rare haplotype G-C-G (OR 6.81), representing 2.1% of cases and 0.3% of controls. The frequency of rs4713916AG in patients deviated from expected Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, the genotype AA at rs4713916 in monopolar depression (P = 0.011), and the two-locus haplotype rs1360780T – rs3800373T in the total sample (overall P = 0.045) were nominally associated with longer continuance of disease.

Conclusion

Our data do not support a significant genetic contribution of FKBP5 polymorphisms and haplotypes to affective psychosis, and the findings are inconclusive regarding their contribution to disease-related traits.
Qualitative evaluation of a form for standardized information exchange between orthopedic surgeons and occupational physicians
Authors: Faber Elske , Burdorf Alex , van Staa Anne Loes , Miedema Harald S , Verhaar Jan AN
Published: November 2006

Background

Both occupational physicians and orthopedic surgeons can be involved in the management of work relevant musculoskeletal disorders. These physicians hardly communicate with each other and this might lead to different advices to the patient. Therefore, we evaluated a standardized information exchange form for the exchange of relevant information between the orthopedic surgeon and the occupational physician. The main goals of this qualitative study are to evaluate whether the form improved information exchange, whether the form gave relevant information, and to generate ideas to further improve this information exchange.

Methods

The information exchange form was developed in two consensus meetings with five orthopedic surgeons and five occupational physicians. To evaluate the information exchange form, a qualitative evaluation was set up. Structured telephone interviews were undertaken with the patients, interviews with the physicians were face-to-face and semi-structured, based on a topic list. These interviews were recorded and literally transcribed. Each interview was analyzed separately in Atlas-Ti.

Results

The form was used for 8 patients, 7 patients agreed to participate in the qualitative evaluation. All three orthopedic surgeons involved and three of the six involved occupational physicians agreed to be interviewed. The form was transferred to 4 occupational physicians, the other 3 patients recovered before they visited the occupational physician. The information on the form was regarded to be useful. All orthopedic surgeons agreed that the occupational physician should take the initiative. Most physicians felt that the form should not be filled out for each patient visiting an orthopedic surgeon, but only for those patients who do not recover as expected. Orthopedic surgeons suggested that a copy of the medical information provided to the general practitioner could also be provided to occupational physicians.

Conclusion

The information exchange form was regarded to be useful and could be used in practice. The occupational physician should take the initiative for using this form and most physicians felt the information should only be exchanged for patients who do not recover as expected. That means that the advantage of giving information early in the treatment is lost.
Hierarchical amino acid utilization and its influence on fermentation dynamics: rifamycin B fermentation using Amycolatopsis mediterraneiS699, a case study
Authors: Bapat Prashant M , Das Debasish , Sohoni Sujata V , Wangikar Pramod P
Published: November 2006

Background

Industrial fermentation typically uses complex nitrogen substrates which consist of mixture of amino acids. The uptake of amino acids is known to be mediated by several amino acid transporters with certain preferences. However, models to predict this preferential uptake are not available. We present the stoichiometry for the utilization of amino acids as a sole carbon and nitrogen substrate or along with glucose as an additional carbon source. In the former case, the excess nitrogen provided by the amino acids is excreted by the organism in the form of ammonia. We have developed a cybernetic model to predict the sequence and kinetics of uptake of amino acids. The model is based on the assumption that the growth on a specific substrate is dependent on key enzyme(s) responsible for the uptake and assimilation of the substrates. These enzymes may be regulated by mechanisms of nitrogen catabolite repression. The model hypothesizes that the organism is an optimal strategist and invests resources for the uptake of a substrate that are proportional to the returns.

Results

Stoichiometric coefficients and kinetic parameters of the model were estimated experimentally for Amycolatopsis mediterranei S699, a rifamycin B overproducer. The model was then used to predict the uptake kinetics in a medium containing cas amino acids. In contrast to the other amino acids, the uptake of proline was not affected by the carbon or nitrogen catabolite repression in this strain. The model accurately predicted simultaneous uptake of amino acids at low cas concentrations and sequential uptake at high cas concentrations. The simulated profile of the key enzymes implies the presence of specific transporters for small groups of amino acids.

Conclusion

The work demonstrates utility of the cybernetic model in predicting the sequence and kinetics of amino acid uptake in a case study involving Amycolatopsis mediterranei, an industrially important organism. This work also throws some light on amino acid transporters and their regulation in A. mediterranei .Further, cybernetic model based experimental strategy unravels formation and utilization of ammonia as well as its inhibitory role during amino acid uptake. Our results have implications for model based optimization and monitoring of other industrial fermentation processes involving complex nitrogen substrate.
Pathway-specific differences between tumor cell lines and normal and tumor tissue cells
Authors: Ertel Adam , Verghese Arun , Byers Stephen W , Ochs Michael , Tozeren Aydin
Published: November 2006

Background

Cell lines are used in experimental investigation of cancer but their capacity to represent tumor cells has yet to be quantified. The aim of the study was to identify significant alterations in pathway usage in cell lines in comparison with normal and tumor tissue.

Methods

This study utilized a pathway-specific enrichment analysis of publicly accessible microarray data and quantified the gene expression differences between cell lines, tumor, and normal tissue cells for six different tissue types. KEGG pathways that are significantly different between cell lines and tumors, cell lines and normal tissues and tumor and normal tissue were identified through enrichment tests on gene lists obtained using Significance Analysis of Microarrays (SAM).

Results

Cellular pathways that were significantly upregulated in cell lines compared to tumor cells and normal cells of the same tissue type included ATP synthesis, cell communication, cell cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, purine, pyrimidine and pyruvate metabolism, and proteasome. Results on metabolic pathways suggested an increase in the velocity nucleotide metabolism and RNA production. Pathways that were downregulated in cell lines compared to tumor and normal tissue included cell communication, cell adhesion molecules (CAMs), and ECM-receptor interaction. Only a fraction of the significantly altered genes in tumor-to-normal comparison had similar expressions in cancer cell lines and tumor cells. These genes were tissue-specific and were distributed sparsely among multiple pathways.

Conclusion

Significantly altered genes in tumors compared to normal tissue were largely tissue specific. Among these genes downregulation was a major trend. In contrast, cell lines contained large sets of significantly upregulated genes that were common to multiple tissue types. Pathway upregulation in cell lines was most pronounced over metabolic pathways including cell nucleotide metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation. Signaling pathways involved in adhesion and communication of cultured cancer cells were downregulated. The three way pathways comparison presented in this study brings light into the differences in the use of cellular pathways by tumor cells and cancer cell lines.
Reduction of nosocomial pneumonia after major burns by trace element supplementation: aggregation of two randomised trials
Authors: Berger Mette M , Eggimann Philippe , Heyland Daren K , Chioléro René L , Revelly Jean-Pierre , Day Andrew , Raffoul Wassim , Shenkin Alan
Published: November 2006

Introduction

Nosocomial pneumonia is a major source of morbidity and mortality after severe burns. Burned patients suffer trace element deficiencies and depressed antioxidant and immune defences. This study aimed at determining the effect of trace element supplementation on nosocomial or intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired pneumonia.

Methods

Two consecutive, randomised, double-blinded, supplementation studies including two homogeneous groups of 41 severely burned patients (20 placebo and 21 intervention) admitted to the burn centre of a university hospital were combined. Intervention consisted of intravenous trace element supplements (copper 2.5 to 3.1 mg/day, selenium 315 to 380 μg/day, and zinc 26.2 to 31.4 mg/day) for 8 to 21 days versus placebo. Endpoints were infections during the first 30 days (predefined criteria for pneumonia, bacteraemia, wound, urine, and other), wound healing, and length of ICU stay. Plasma and skin (study 2) concentrations of selenium and zinc were determined on days 3, 10, and 20.

Results

The patients, 42 ± 15 years old, were burned on 46% ± 19% of body surface: the combined characteristics of the patients did not differ between the groups. Plasma trace element concentrations and antioxidative capacity were significantly enhanced with normalisation of plasma selenium, zinc, and glutathione peroxidase concentrations in plasma and skin in the trace element-supplemented group. A significant reduction in number of infections was observed in the supplemented patients, which decreased from 3.5 ± 1.2 to 2.0 ± 1.0 episodes per patient in placebo group (p < 0.001). This was related to a reduction of nosocomial pneumonia, which occurred in 16 (80%) patients versus seven (33%) patients, respectively (p < 0.001), and of ventilator-associated pneumonia from 13 to six episodes, respectively (p = 0.023).

Conclusion

Enhancing trace element status and antioxidant defences by selenium, zinc, and copper supplementation was associated with a decrease of nosocomial pneumonia in critically ill, severely burned patients.
Individual‐based Computational Modeling of Smallpox Epidemic Control Strategies
Authors: Burke Donald S. , Epstein Joshua M. , Cummings Derek A.T. , Parker Jon I. , Cline Kenneth C. , Singa Ramesh M. , Chakravarty Shubha
Published: November 2006

In response to concerns about possible bioterrorism, the authors developed an individual‐based (or “agent‐based”) computational model of smallpox epidemic transmission and control. The model explicitly represents an “artificial society” of individual human beings, each implemented as a distinct object, or data structure in a computer program. These agents interact locally with one another in code‐represented social units such as homes, workplaces, schools, and hospitals. Over many iterations, these microinteractions generate large‐scale macroscopic phenomena of fundamental interest such as the course of an epidemic in space and time. Model variables (incubation periods, clinical disease expression, contagiousness, and physical mobility) were assigned following realistic values agreed on by an advisory group of experts on smallpox. Eight response scenarios were evaluated at two epidemic scales, one being an introduction of ten smallpox cases into a 6,000‐person town and the other an introduction of 500 smallpox cases into a 50,000‐person town. The modeling exercise showed that contact tracing and vaccination of household, workplace, and school contacts, along with prompt reactive vaccination of hospital workers and isolation of diagnosed cases, could contain smallpox at both epidemic scales examined.
2006 Teaching Award Winners
Authors: Hammer Elizabeth Yost
Published: November 2006

The Society for the Teaching of Psychology (Division Two) celebrated the 27th year of its annual Teaching Awards Program at the August convention of the American Psychological Association in New Orleans. The 2006 winners received a plaque and a check for $750. Recognition for outstanding teaching was given in each of the following categories: (a) Robert S. Daniel Award (4-year college or university professor), (b) 2-year College Award, (c) Moffett Memorial Award (high school teacher), (d) McKeachie Graduate Student Teaching Excellence Award, and (e) Early Career Teaching Excellence Award (first 5 years of teaching at any level).
Teaching Random Assignment: A Classroom Demonstration Using a Deck of Playing Cards
Authors: Enders Craig K. , Stuetzle Rick , Laurenceau Jean-Philippe
Published: November 2006

Despite its apparent simplicity, random assignment is an abstract concept for many students. This article describes a classroom demonstration that uses a standard deck of playing cards. In small groups, students randomly assign playing cards (i.e., participants) to 2 treatment groups. Following randomization, students compare the relative frequency of “background variables” across the 2 groups (e.g., the number of red, black, face cards, spades). A pretest–posttest design indicated that quiz scores increased following the demonstration. We suggest a number of possible extensions for the demonstration.
What I Think I May Have Learned—Reflections on 50 Years of Teaching: An Interview with Michael Wertheimer
Authors: Michael Kurt D.
Published: November 2006

Kurt Michael is an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at Appalachian State University (ASU) where he teaches history and systems of psychology, abnormal psychology, child psychopathology, and interventions for children and adolescents. He received his BA (cum laude) from the University of Colorado at Boulder and his MS and PhD in clinical psychology from Utah State University. He completed his internship in clinical psychology at Duke University Medical Center. His empirical research has focused on the assessment and treatment of child and adolescent psychopathology, meta-analytic designs, and the efficacy of brief interventions for excessive alcohol consumption among college students. In addition to his teaching and research endeavors, he serves as associate director for Clinical Services at ASU's Institute for Health and Human Services.

Michael Wertheimer, professor emeritus at the University of Colorado at Boulder, has won awards for the teaching of psychology, for service, and for contributions to the history of psychology. After earning his BA (with high honors) from Swarthmore College and an MA in psychology from The Johns Hopkins University, he received his PhD in experimental psychology from Harvard University under the supervision of S. S. Stevens and Edwin G. Boring. He also worked for 1 semester as a full-time research assistant to social psychologist Solomon E. Asch. His career at the University of Colorado at Boulder (after teaching for 3 years at Wesleyan University) included decades of service as director or codirector of the departmental honors program in psychology (1956 to 1993) as well as the presidency of Divisions 1 (General), 2 (Society for the Teaching of Psychology), 24 (Theoretical and Philosophical Psychology—twice), and 26 (History) of the American Psychological Association (APA) and of Psi Chi and the Rocky Mountain Psychological Association. Among his scholarly endeavors in the history of psychology is the preservation of his father's (Max Wertheimer) contributions to the development of Gestalt theory (King & Wertheimer, 2005). He is the recipient of the Distinguished Teaching Award of the American Psychological Foundation and a Lifetime Achievement Award for Sustained, Outstanding, and Unusual Contributions to the History of Psychology from the APA's Division 26.
Steroid and G Protein Binding Characteristics of the Seatrout and Human Progestin Membrane Receptor α Subtypes and Their Evolutionary Origins
Authors: Thomas Peter , Pang Y. , Dong J. , Groenen P. , Kelder J. , de Vlieg J. , Zhu Y. , Tubbs C.
Published: November 2006

A novel progestin receptor (mPR) with seven-transmembrane domains was recently discovered in spotted seatrout and homologous genes were identified in other vertebrates. We show that cDNAs for the mPR α subtypes from spotted seatrout (st-mPRα) and humans (hu-mPRα) encode progestin receptors that display many functional characteristics of G protein-coupled receptors. Flow cytometry and immunocytochemical staining of whole MDA-MB-231 cells stably transfected with the mPRαs using antibodies directed against their N-terminal regions show the receptors are localized on the plasma membrane and suggest the N-terminal domain is extracellular. Both recombinant st-mPRα and hu-mPRα display high affinity (Kd 4.2–7.8 nm), limited capacity (Bmax 0.03–0.32 nm), and displaceable membrane binding specific for progestins. Progestins activate a pertussis toxin-sensitive inhibitory G protein (Gi) to down-regulate membrane-bound adenylyl cyclase activity in both st-mPRα- and hu-mPRα-transfected cells. Coimmunoprecipitation experiments demonstrate the receptors are directly coupled to the Gi protein. Similar to G protein-coupled receptors, dissociation of the receptor/G protein complex results in a decrease in ligand binding to the mPRαs and mutation of the C-terminal, and third intracellular loop of st-mPRα causes loss of ligand-dependent G protein activation. Phylogenetic analysis indicates the mPRs are members of a progesterone and adipoQ receptor (PAQR) subfamily that is only present in chordates, whereas other PAQRs also occur in invertebrates and plants. Progesterone and adipoQ receptors are related to the hemolysin3 family and have origins in the Eubacteria. Thus, mPRs arose from Eubacteria independently from members of the GPCR superfamily, which arose from Archeabacteria, suggesting convergent evolution of seven-transmembrane hormone receptors coupled to G proteins.
Bounds and Approximations for the Fixed-Cycle Traffic-Light Queue
Authors: van den Broek M. S. , van Leeuwaarden J. S. H. , Adan I. J. B. F. , Boxma O. J.
Published: November 2006

This paper deals with the fixed-cycle traffic-light (FCTL) queue, where vehicles arrive at an intersection controlled by a traffic light and form a queue. The traffic light alternates between green and red periods, and delayed vehicles are assumed to depart during the green period at equal time intervals. The key performance characteristic in the FCTL queue is the so-called mean overflow, defined as the mean queue length at the end of a green period.

An exact solution for the mean overflow is available, but it has been considered to be of little practical value because it requires some numerical procedures. Therefore, most of the literature on the FCTL queue is about deriving approximations for the mean overflow. In deriving these approximations, most authors first approximate the FCTL queue by a bulk-service queue, approximate the mean overflow in the bulk-service queue, and use this as an approximation for the mean overflow in the FCTL queue. So far no quantitative comparison of both models has been given. We compare both models and assess the quality of the approximation for various settings of the parameter values. In this comparison and throughout the paper we do not restrict ourselves to Poisson arrivals, but consider a more general arrival process instead.

We discuss the numerical issues that need to be resolved to calculate the exact expression for the mean overflow in both queues and show that clear computational schemes are available. Next, we present several bounds and approximations of the mean overflow that do not require numerical procedures. In particular, we derive a new approximation based on the heavy traffic limit and a scaling argument. We compare the new bounds and approximation with the existing ones. We elaborate on the impact of several parameters, like the length of the green and red period and the variance of the arrival distribution. Each of these parameters turns out to be crucial.
Double-Cycling Strategies for Container Ships and Their Effect on Ship Loading and Unloading Operations
Authors: Goodchild Anne V. , Daganzo Carlos F.
Published: November 2006

Loading ships as they are unloaded (double cycling) can improve the efficiency of a quay crane and container port. This paper describes the double-cycling problem, and presents solution algorithms and simple formulae to determine reductions in the number of operations and operating time using the technique. We focus on reducing the number of operations necessary to turn around a row of a ship. The problem is first formulated as a scheduling problem, which can be solved optimally. A simple lower bound for all strategies is then developed. We also present a greedy algorithm that yields a simple and tight upper bound. The gap between the upper and lower bounds is so small that the formula for either bound is an accurate predictor of crane performance. The analysis is then extended to double cycling when ships have deck hatches. Results are presented for many simulated vessels, and compared to empirical data from a real-world trial. The research demonstrates that double cycling can create significant efficiency gains in crane productivity, typically reducing the number of cycles by about 20% and the operational time by about 10% when double cycling only below deck.
Strong Regularity and the Sensitivity Analysis of Traffic Equilibria: A Comment
Authors: Robinson Stephen M.
Published: November 2006

Patriksson (2004) analyzes the sensitivity of solutions of traffic equilibrium problems. One of his central results deals with directional differentiability in the elastic-demand case. Unfortunately, his proof contains crucial errors, and the purpose of this comment is to explain what they are and why they render the proof incorrect. The consequence is that Patriksson’s proof of his Theorem 5 is invalid, so the theorem must be regarded as unproven.
First identification of a phosphorylcholine-substituted protein from Caenorhabditis elegans: isolation and characterization of the aspartyl protease ASP-6
Authors: Lochnit Günter , Grabitzki Julia , Henkel Björn , Tavernarakis Nektarios , Geyer Rudolf
Published: November 2006

Caenorhabditis elegansis a widely accepted model system for parasitic nematodes, drug screening and developmental studies. Similar to parasitic worms,C. elegansexpresses glycosphingolipids and glycoproteins carrying, in part, phosphorylcholine (PCho) substitutions, which might play important roles in nematode development, fertility and, at least in the case of parasites, survival within the host. With the exception of a major secretory/excretory product fromAcanthocheilonema viteae(ES-62), no protein carrying this epitope has been studied in detail yet. Here we report on the identification, characterization and localization of the aspartyl protease ASP-6 ofC. elegans, which is excreted by the nematode in aPCho-substituted form. Within the worm, most prominent expression of the protein is observed in the intestine, while muscle and epithelial cells expressasp-6to a lesser extent. In animals harboring an ASP-6::GFP fusion protein, diffuse fluorescence throughout the body cavity of adult worms indicates that the chimeric protein is secreted.
Solid state solubility between SnO2 and (FeSb)O4at high temperature
Authors: Martinelli Alberto , Ferretti Maurizio , Basso Riccardo , Cabella Roberto , Lucchetti Gabriella
Published: November 2006

The solubility in the solid state was investigated for the pseudo-binary system SnO2—(FeSb)O4 at high temperature. Stoichiometric amounts of pure SnO2 and (FeSb)O4 powders were mixed and reacted in air at 1373 K. Solid state solubility was ascertained in the whole compositional range at high temperature, whereas at low temperature a miscibility gap occurs. The structural refinement performed according to the Rietveld method reveals that the (Sn
2x
Fe
1–x
Sb
1–x
)O4 solid solution (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) crystallizes in the tetragonal system with a rutile-type structure. Negative deviations from Vegard's law were observed. An anisotropic broadening of the X-ray reflections was observed and analysed by means of Williamson-Hall plots.
When It's More Than You, Jesus, and the Pencil: Reflections on an Academic Writing Mentorship
Authors: Turner Jennifer D. , Edwards Patricia A.
Published: November 2006

What makes academic writing so challenging, and what might be done to help graduate students who struggle with it? The authors explore answers to these questions by reflecting upon their own experiences in graduate school and highlighting their collaboration as African American literacy scholars. They use the term academic writing mentorship to characterize their writing relationship and discuss how collaborative work transformed their perceptions of and experiences with academic writing. They also offer academic writing mentorships as a possible strategy for supporting graduate students struggling with academic writing.
RE1 Silencing Transcription Factor Maintains a Repressive Chromatin Environment in Embryonic Hippocampal Neural Stem Cells
Authors: Greenway Deborah J. , Street Miyoko , Jeffries Aaron , Buckley Noel J.
Published: November 2006

The control of gene expression in neural stem cells is key to understanding their developmental and therapeutic potential, yet we know little of the transcriptional mechanisms that underlie their differentiation. Recent evidence has implicated the RE1 silencing transcription factor (REST) in neuronal differentiation. However, the means by which REST regulates transcription in neural stem cells remain unclear. Here, we show that REST recruits distinct corepressor platforms in neural stem cells. REST is able to both silence and repress neuronal genes in embryonic hippocampal neural stem cells by creating a chromatin environment that contains both repressive local epigenetic signature (characterized by low levels of histones H4 and H3K9 acetylation and elevated dimethylation of H3K9) and H3K4 methylation, which are characteristic of gene activation. Furthermore, inhibition of REST function leads to activation of several neuron-specific genes but does not lead to overt formation of mature neurons, supporting the notion that REST regulates part, but not all, of the neuronal differentiation program.
Caged Molecules: Principles and Practical Considerations
Authors: Kao Joseph P.Y.
Published: November 2006

A caged molecule is an inert but photosensitive molecule that is transformed by photolysis into a biologically active molecule at high speed (typically 1 msec). The process is referred to as photorelease. The spatial resolution of photorelease is limited by the properties of light; submicrometer resolution is potentially achievable. Therefore, focal photorelease of caged molecules enables one to control biological processes with high spatio‐temporal precision. The principles underlying caged molecules as well as practical considerations for their use are discussed in this unit.