bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notes on and additions to the Niessliaceae (Hypocreales)
Authors: Samuels Gary J. , Barr Margaret E.
Published: September 2010

The ascomycete family Niessliaceae presently includes the genera Cryptoniesslia, Melanopsamma, Niesslia, Taiwanascus, Trichosphaerella, and Valetoniella. To this assemblage are added the newly described Circinoniesslia, with C. nectriae, and Valetoniellopsis, with V. laxa as their respective type species. The synonymy of Pseudorhynchia with Trichosphaeria is not accepted, and Pseudorhynchia is redescribed based on its type species. Melanopsamma pomiformis is redescribed and illustrated. Other newly described species are Melanopsamma verrucosa, Valetoniella pauciornata, and Valetoniella claviornata. The family Taiwanascaceae, described for the cleistothecial Taiwanascus tetrasporus, is placed in synonymy with the Niessliaceae. Trichosphaerella arecae is transferred to Neorehmia, and that genus is excluded from the family. Key words: Ascomycetes, Cryptoniesslia, Melanopsamma, Niesslia, Pseudorhynchia, systematics, Taiwanascus, Trichosphaerella, Valetoniella, Valetoniellopsis.
Increased cyclooxygenase-2 expression and prostaglandin E2production in pressurized renal medullary interstitial cells
Authors: Carlsen Inge , Donohue Kaitlin E. , Jensen Anja M. , Selzer Angela L. , Chen Jie , Poppas Dix P. , Felsen Diane , Frøkiær Jørgen , Nørregaard Rikke
Published: September 2010

Renal medullary interstitial cells (RMICs) are subjected to osmotic, inflammatory, and mechanical stress as a result of ureteral obstruction, which may influence the expression and activity of cyclooxygenase type 2 (COX-2). Inflammatory stress strongly induces COX-2 in RMICs. To explore the direct effect of mechanical stress on the expression and activity of COX-2, cultured RMICs were subjected to varying amounts of pressure over time using a novel pressure apparatus. COX-2 mRNA and protein were induced following 60 mmHg pressure for 4 and 6 h, respectively. COX-1 mRNA and protein levels were unchanged. PGE2production in the RMICs was increased when cells were subjected to 60 mmHg pressure for 6 h and was prevented by a selective COX-2 inhibitor. Pharmacological inhibition indicating that pressure-induced COX-2 expression is dependent on p38 MAPK and biochemical knockdown experiments showed that NF-κB might be involved in the COX-2 induction by pressure. Importantly, terminal deoxyneucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling and methylthiazoletetetrazolium assay studies showed that subjecting RMICs to 60 mmHg pressure for 6 h does not affect cell viability, apoptosis, and proliferation. To further examine the regulation of COX-2 in vivo, rats were subjected to unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO) for 6 and 12 h. COX-2 mRNA and protein level was increased in inner medulla in response to 6- and 12-h UUO. COX-1 mRNA and protein levels were unchanged. These findings suggest that in vitro application of pressure recapitulates the effects on RMICs found after in vivo UUO. This directly implicates pressure as an important regulator of renal COX-2 expression.
Mycobacterium bovis Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin‐Induced Macrophage Cytotoxicity against Bladder Cancer Cells
Authors: Luo Yi , Knudson Matthew J.
Published: September 2010

Many details of the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy of bladder cancer have been discovered in the past decades. However, information on a potential role for macrophage cytotoxicity as an effector mechanism is limited. Macrophages play pivotal roles in the host innate immunity and serve as a first line of defense in mycobacterial infection. In addition to their function as professional antigen‐presenting cells, the tumoricidal activity of macrophages has also been studied with considerable interest. Studies have shown that activated macrophages are potent in killing malignant cells of various tissue origins. This review summarizes the current understanding of the BCG‐induced macrophage cytotoxicity toward bladder cancer cells with an intention to inspire investigation on this important but underdeveloped research field.
Cyclin-Dependent Kinase–Mediated Phosphorylation Plays a Critical Role in the Oncogenic Functions of PELP1
Authors: Nair Binoj C. , Nair Sujit S. , Chakravarty Dimple , Challa Rambabu , Manavathi Bramanandam , Yew P. Renee , Kumar Rakesh , Tekmal Rajeshwar Rao , Vadlamudi Ratna K.
Published: September 2010

Estrogen receptor (ER) signaling plays an important role in breast cancer progression, and ER functions are influenced by coregulatory proteins. PELP1 (proline-, glutamic acid–, and leucine-rich protein 1) is a nuclear receptor coregulator that plays an important role in ER signaling. Its expression is deregulated in hormonal cancers. We identified PELP1 as a novel cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) substrate. Using site-directed mutagenesis and in vitro kinase assays, we identified Ser477 and Ser991 of PELP1 as CDK phosphorylation sites. Using the PELP1 Ser991 phospho-specific antibody, we show that PELP1 is hyperphosphorylated during cell cycle progression. Model cells stably expressing the PELP1 mutant that lack CDK sites had defects in estradiol (E2)–mediated cell cycle progression and significantly affected PELP1-mediated oncogenic functions in vivo. Mechanistic studies showed that PELP1 modulates transcription factor E2F1 transactivation functions, that PELP1 is recruited to pRb/E2F target genes, and that PELP1 facilitates ER signaling cross talk with cell cycle machinery. We conclude that PELP1 is a novel substrate of interphase CDKs and that its phosphorylation is important for the proper function of PELP1 in modulating hormone-driven cell cycle progression and also for optimal E2F transactivation function. Because the expression of both PELP1 and CDKs is deregulated in breast tumors, CDK-PELP1 interactions will have implications in breast cancer progression. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7166–75. ©2010 AACR.
BRCA1-Associated Epigenetic Regulation of p73 Mediates an Effector Pathway for Chemosensitivity in Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Ibrahim Nageatte , He Lei , Leong Chee-Onn , Xing Deyin , Karlan Beth Y. , Swisher Elizabeth M. , Rueda Bo R. , Orsulic Sandra , Ellisen Leif W.
Published: September 2010

The majority of tumors arising in BRCA1 mutation carriers exhibit inactivation of p53, a key effector of cell death after DNA damage. Despite the loss of p53, BRCA1-deficient tumor cells exhibit increased sensitivity to cisplatin, and patients with BRCA1-associated ovarian carcinomas experience improved outcomes with platinum-based chemotherapy compared with sporadic cases. Although it is known that chemosensitivity in BRCA1-associated cancers is associated with unrepaired DNA damage, the specific effector pathway mediating the cellular response to platinum-induced damage in these tumors is poorly understood. Here, we show that the p53-related gene p73, encoding a proapoptotic protein that is linked to chemosensitivity in many settings, is upregulated through a novel epigenetic mechanism in both human and murine models of BRCA1-associated ovarian carcinoma. BRCA1-deficient ovarian carcinoma cells exhibit hypermethylation within a p73 regulatory region, which includes the binding site for the p73 transcriptional repressor ZEB1, leading to the abrogation of ZEB1 binding and increased expression of transactivating p73 isoforms (TAp73). Cisplatin chemotherapy induces TAp73 target genes specifically in BRCA1-deficient cells, and knockdown of TAp73 in these cells causes chemoresistance while having little or no effect on BRCA1-expressing tumor cells. In primary ovarian carcinomas, ZEB1 binding site methylation and TAp73 expression correlate with BRCA1 status and with clinical response. Together, these findings uncover a novel regulatory mechanism that supports the contribution of TAp73 as an important mediator of the response to platinum chemotherapy in a subset of ovarian carcinomas. TAp73 might represent a response predictor and potential therapeutic target for enhancing chemosensitivity in this disease. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7155–65. ©2010 AACR.
The RB-E2F1 Pathway Regulates Autophagy
Authors: Jiang Hong , Martin Vanesa , Gomez-Manzano Candelaria , Johnson David G. , Alonso Marta , White Erin , Xu Jing , McDonnell Timothy J. , Shinojima Naoki , Fueyo Juan
Published: September 2010

Autophagy is a protective mechanism that renders cells viable in stressful conditions. Emerging evidence suggests that this cellular process is also a tumor suppressor pathway. Previous studies showed that cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors (CDKI) induce autophagy. Whether retinoblastoma protein (RB), a key tumor suppressor and downstream target of CDKIs, induces autophagy is not clear. Here, we show that RB triggers autophagy and that the RB activators p16INK4a and p27/kip1 induce autophagy in an RB-dependent manner. RB binding to E2 transcription factor (E2F) is required for autophagy induction and E2F1 antagonizes RB-induced autophagy, leading to apoptosis. Downregulation of E2F1 in cells results in high levels of autophagy. Our findings indicate that RB induces autophagy by repressing E2F1 activity. We speculate that this newly discovered aspect of RB function is relevant to cancer development and therapy. Cancer Res; 70(20); 7882–93. ©2010 AACR.
PTEN Loss Accelerates Kras
G12D-Induced Pancreatic Cancer Development
Authors: Hill Reginald , Calvopina Joseph Hargan , Kim Christine , Wang Ying , Dawson David W. , Donahue Timothy R. , Dry Sarah , Wu Hong
Published: September 2010

KRAS mutations are found in ∼90% of human pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDAC). However, mice genetically engineered to express KrasG12D from its endogenous locus develop PDACs only after a prolonged latency, indicating that other genetic events or pathway alterations are necessary for PDAC progression. The PTEN-controlled phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling axis is dysregulated in later stages of PDAC. To better elucidate the role of PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling in KrasG12D-induced PDAC development, we crossed Pten conditional knockout mice (Ptenlox/lox) to mice with conditional activation of KrasG12D. The resulting compound heterozygous mutant mice showed significantly accelerated development of acinar-to-ductal metaplasia (ADM), malignant pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (mPanIN), and PDAC within a year. Moreover, all mice with KrasG12D activation and Pten homozygous deletion succumbed to cancer by 3 weeks of age. Our data support a dosage-dependent role for PTEN, and the resulting dysregulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling axis, in both PDAC initiation and progression, and shed additional light on the signaling mechanisms that lead to the development of ADM and subsequent mPanIN and pancreatic cancer. Cancer Res; 70(18); 7114–24. ©2010 AACR.
Architectonics of Phage-Liposome Nanowebs as Optimized Photosensitizer Vehicles for Photodynamic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Kalarical Janardhanan Sreeram , Narayan Shoba , Abbineni Gopal , Hayhurst Andrew , Mao Chuanbin
Published: September 2010

Filamentous M13 phage can be engineered to display cancer cell–targeting or tumor-homing peptides through phage display. It would be highly desirable if the tumor-targeting phage can also carry anticancer drugs to deliver them to the cancer cells. We studied the evolution of structures of the complexes between anionic filamentous M13 phage and cationic serum-stable liposomes that encapsulate the monomeric photosensitizer zinc naphthalocyanine. At specific phage-liposome ratios, multiple phage nanofibers and liposomes are interwoven into a “nanoweb.” The chemical and biological properties of the phage-liposome nanoweb were evaluated for possible application in drug delivery. This study highlights the ability of phage-liposome nanowebs to serve as efficient carriers in the transport of photosensitizers to cancer cells. Mol Cancer Ther; 9(9); 2524–35. ©2010 AACR.
Differentialist and Universalist Antidiscrimination Policies on the Ground: How Far They Succeed, Why They Fail: A Comparison Between Britain and France
Authors: Sala Pala Valérie
Published: September 2010

In this article, the author compares the way in which anti-(ethnic) discrimination policies regarding access to social housing are implemented on the ground in Britain and France through case studies in Birmingham and Marseilles. Beyond sharp differences in the conceptions and “philosophies” of antidiscrimination policies in those two national “models” (a differentialist conception in Britain versus a universalist conception in France), the author shows the limits of these policies on the ground in both cases. In particular, the author shows how (a) the way in which ethnic discrimination is locally constructed as a public issue and (b) the constraints and contradictions faced by local institutions and street-level bureaucrats dealing with social housing on a day-to-day basis contribute to their failure.
Mechanisms and kinetics of chelating reaction between chitosan and Pd(II) in chemical plating pretreatment
Authors: Yu Dan  , He Jinxin  , Ma Yuehui  , Wang Wei
Published: September 2010

The adsorption capability and kinetics of the adsorption of Pd(II) on polyester fabric treated with chitosan have been studied. Batch adsorption experiments were carried out in which the experimental parameters such as the initial metal ion concentration, contact time and temperature were varied. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models were employed to analyze the experimental data. The best approximation to the experimental data was given by the Langmuir isotherm and the maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 1.241 mg·g-1 for Pd(II) on chitosan. The kinetic data were analyzed using pseudo-first-order and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. The data correlated well with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, indicating that the chemical sorption was the rate-limiting step. The thermodynamic parameters like Gibbs free energy (ΔG° ), enthalpy (ΔH°) and entropy (ΔS° ) were also evaluated by applying the Van’t Hoff equation. The results indicated the exothermic nature of the adsorption process. This study offers a general model for the study of the kinetics of reactions between chitosan and metal ions on a polyester fabric base. It could be confirmed that the Pd-chitosan layer was deposited on polyester fabric when observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and scanning probe microscopy (SPM).
The Multicultural Teaching Competency Scale: Development and Initial Validation
Authors: Spanierman Lisa B. , Oh Euna , Heppner P. Paul , Neville Helen A. , Mobley Michael , Wright Caroline Vaile , Dillon Frank R. , Navarro Rachel
Published: September 2010

This article reports on the development and initial validation of the multidimensional Multicultural Teaching Competency Scale (MTCS). Data from 506 pre- and in-service teachers were collected in three interrelated studies. Exploratory factor analysis results suggested a 16-item, two-factor solution: (a) multicultural teaching skill and (b) multicultural teaching knowledge. Confirmatory factor analysis suggested that the two-factor model was a good fit of the data and superior to competing models. The MTCS demonstrated adequate internal consistency and was related in meaningful ways to measures of racism awareness and multicultural teaching attitudes. Participant responses were not associated with social desirability. Implications are discussed.
Tales From the Front Line: Teachers’ Responses to Somali Bantu Refugee Students
Authors: Roxas Kevin
Published: September 2010

This qualitative study identifies the ways in which teachers in an urban school district responded to the specialized educational needs of Somali Bantu refugee students who have recently been relocated to the United States and who have had limited and interrupted access to education prior to their enrollment in public schools in the United States. The article identifies the institutional obstacles teachers in Central City1 high schools faced in general during the 2007—2008 school year and then highlights the different types of responses employed by native U.S.-born teachers when working with their Somali Bantu students.
Desegregation and Place Restructuring in the New Belfast
Authors: Murtagh Brendan
Published: September 2010

A sustained reduction in unemployment, economic growth and house price increase have reflected Belfast’s post-conflict renaissance just as readily as the global recession has exposed the fragility of construction-led growth. Rates of segregation had stabilised and new consumption spaces and élite developments further reflected the city’s engagement with globalisation and economic liberalisation. This paper explores the spatial impact of these processes, not least as gentrification has created new layers of residential segregation in a city already preoccupied with high rates of ethno-religious territoriality. A case study of south Belfast connects these shifts to the production of new mixed-religion neighbourhoods. These have the capacity to reduce the relevance of traditional binary identities, but at the same time reproduce new forms of segregation centred on tenure and class. The paper concludes by highlighting the implications for policy and practice, not least as the recession opens new spaces to present alternatives to the market logic.
Multicentric Fibromyxoid Peripheral Nerve Sheath Tumor (Multicentric Schwannoma) in a Dromedary Camel (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Khodakaram-Tafti A. , Khordadmehr M.
Published: September 2010

During postslaughter inspection of a 4-year-old male dromedary camel ( Camelus dromedarius), numerous small nodules to large masses up to 4 cm in diameter were found on the serosal surfaces of forestomachs, large intestines, mesentery, liver, and spleen. Grossly, the masses were discrete, round, smooth, and white to gray that bulged from the serosal layer. Cut surfaces of the masses were discrete, round, white, and relatively homogeneous without any necrotic foci. Histopathologically, the masses were encapsulated and composed of a mixture of round and spindle-shaped cells in loose whorls of neoplastic cells with small elongated hyperchromatic wavy nuclei and a small amount of pale eosinophilic, poorly defined cytoplasm. Masson’s trichrome staining showed mild amounts of collagen fibers forming an irregular, loose stroma. In immunohistochemistry, immunoreactivity for the Schwann cell marker (S100) was diffusely positive in the neoplastic cells. The immunoreactivity for CK, c-kit, and CD34 were negative. Ultrastructural examination confirmed the tumor was entirely formed of neoplastic Schwann cells. On the basis of the histopathological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural findings, the tumors were diagnosed as multicentric fibromyxoid peripheral nerve sheath tumor (multicentric schwannoma). This tumor has not been previously recorded in camel worldwide.
Prestressed composite specimen for mixed-mode I/II cracking in laminated materials
Authors: Szekrényes András
Published: September 2010

This article presents the mixed-mode I/II prestressed end-loaded split specimen for the fracture testing of composite materials. The system is based on the fact that one of the two fracture modes is provided by the prestressed state of the specimen, and the other one is increased up to fracture initiation using a testing machine. The novel beam-like specimen is able to provide any combination of the mode-I and mode-II energy release rates. A simple closed-form solution is developed using beam theory as a data reduction scheme and for the calculation of the energy release rates in the new configuration. The applicability and the limitations of the novel fracture mechanical test are demonstrated using unidirectional glass—polyester composite specimens. If only crack propagation onset is involved, then the prestressed mixed-mode beam specimen can be used to obtain the fracture criterion of transparent composite materials in the G I—GII plane.
Literacy by Design
Authors: Coyne Peggy , Pisha Bart , Dalton Bridget , Zeph Lucille A. , Smith Nancy Cook
Published: September 2010

Literacy instruction for students with significant intellectual disabilities traditionally emphasizes isolated skills instruction focusing on sight words and basic vocabulary. Recent research suggests these students benefit from high-quality instruction that includes comprehension and storybook reading. This study examined the effect of a technology-based universal design for learning (UDL) approach to literacy instruction, Literacy by Design (LBD), on the reading achievement of 16 students with significant intellectual disabilities in Grades K–2. The LBD approach emphasizes reading for meaning, combining UDL-scaffolded e-books and letter and word recognition software. Nine teachers received training in research-based literacy practices. Of these, five received LBD training and implemented it four to five times weekly. Controlling for initial reading achievement, the LBD group made significantly greater gains on the Woodcock–Johnson Test of Achievement III Passage Comprehension subtest. Implications for research and practice in beginning reading instruction for children with significant intellectual disabilities are discussed.
Counterexamples to Korn’s inequality with non-constant rotation coefficients
Authors: Pompe Waldemar
Published: September 2010

Let Ω be an open, bounded set in Rn (n ≥ 2) with Lipschitz boundary ∂Ω. Assume that Γ ⊆ ∂Ω has a positive Hn-1 measure and let R : Ω → SO(n) be given. We construct counterexamples to the following version of Korn’s inequality in the following two cases: (a) n = 2 and Γ ≠ ∂Ω; (b) n = 3 and Γ = ∂Ω. It is known that the above inequality holds in any dimension n and for any Γ ⊆ ∂Ω, provided that R ∈ C(Ω). However, the inequality is true for n = 2 and Γ = ∂Ω without any regularity assumptions on R.
Does culture count? Comparative performances of top family and non-family firms
Authors: Carr Chris , Bateman Suzanne
Published: September 2010

Sixty-five of the world’s largest family firms were compared against with those of a matched sample of 65 non-family firms. Contrary to previous studies, family firms here displayed higher profitability and a broadly positive (if slightly inconsistent) relationship between increasing family ownership levels and performance. Sales growth was also consistently higher over 20 years when averaged worldwide. Since other studies have mainly been restricted to single countries or regions, we further analysed differences across continents and country cultures. Within both North America and Europe family and non-family firms were equally profitable (though family firms grew relatively faster in North America). The same was true for ‘high-trust’ countries and also for Anglo-Saxon regions. However, in low-trust countries and also in more long-termist Asian countries, family firms performed better than non-family firms both in terms of profitability and sales growth.
How do newcomers fit in? The dynamics between person—environment fit and social capital across cultures
Authors: Lee Yih-teen , Reiche B. Sebastian , Song Dongmei
Published: September 2010

This paper integrates the concepts of person—environment (PE) fit and social capital and examines the social dynamics of organizational newcomers’ development of fit with their new environment in the light of national cultural variations. Specifically, we present a conceptual framework that illustrates how newcomers fit in with their work environment in terms of person—job (PJ) and person—organization (PO) fit through their building and exercising of social capital. We suggest that newcomers’ initial fit with their direct supervisor (i.e. PS fit) and their immediate work group fit (i.e. PG fit) will help them to develop structural and relational social capital in the organization, which in turn facilitate the development of greater PJ and PO fit. Acknowledging that social processes are culture-bound, we also examine the moderating effects of individualism/collectivism and power distance on the process of developing PE fit, and we provide insights for both scholars and managers in applying the model.
Delinquency after Secondary School: Exploring the Consequences of Schooling, Working and Dropout
Authors: Weerman Frank M.
Published: September 2010

This study focuses on delinquent behaviour after secondary school, and investigates the relationship with different educational careers. More specifically, it analyses whether delinquent behaviour increases or decreases among young people with subsequent full-time schooling (without and with educational problems), youths who are working full time or part time, and jobless youths. The sample contains 273 lower-educated youths, aged between 17 and 19 years old, who were questioned while they were still in secondary school during the NSCR School Project on one or more occasions between 2002 and 2004. A mixed-design ANOVA revealed that educational careers do affect changes in delinquency, independently from other factors. Respondents who had attention or other problems in their further education and, in particular, respondents who combined schooling and work appeared to have increased their level of delinquency most strongly. Respondents who left school for a full-time job were not significantly more involved in delinquency.
A Comparison of Family Care Responsibilities of First-generation and Non-first-generation Female Administrators in the Academy
Authors: Seay Sandra E.
Published: September 2010

Greater numbers of women are entering and working in higher education. Some of these women are the first in their families to attain academic degrees. They are known as first-generation students, and the care of children and others is often responsible for their withdrawal from academic study. This study addressed the void of information concerning the post-baccalaureate work experiences of first-generation women by documenting their presence in higher education administrative positions and by determining that providing care for a greater number of dependent children than their peers remained in the profile of first-generation women who had transitioned from undergraduate students to academic administrators. An online questionnaire was used to examine the responses of 345 women working in North Carolina community colleges, colleges and universities. Of the respondents, 38.8 percent were first-generation; 17.4 percent of the first-generation respondents provided financial support to a parent or other. The data results and a literature review are used to suggest that family-friendly workplace policies including equitable pay for women and health insurance options that allow coverage for elderly parents could assist first-generation women who aspire to academic positions within higher education.
Flexor tendon repair in zone III
Authors: Al-Qattan Mohammad M.
Published: September 2010

There is a paucity of the literature on the outcome of zone III flexor tendon injuries. In this paper, we report on the results of zone III flexor tendon repair in 35 consecutive adult patients with clean cut lacerations of both flexor tendons in 42 fingers. There were 25 men and 10 women with an average age of 32 years. Repair of both flexor tendons was performed using ‘figure of eight’ core sutures and a continuous epitendinous suture. Postoperatively, an immediate active range of motion protocol was applied to ensure full active extension of the interphalangeal joints. The results were assessed using the Strickland–Glogovac grading system. There were no ruptures. One patient with two injured fingers developed complex regional pain syndrome and the final outcome was fair in both fingers. In the remaining 34 patients (40 fingers), 33 patients (38 fingers) had an excellent outcome and the remaining patient (two fingers) had a good outcome.
Proximal row carpectomy for scapholunate dissociation
Authors: Elfar J. C. , Stern P. J.
Published: September 2010

Thirty-one patients underwent proximal row carpectomy for static scapholunate dissociation without degenerative arthritis. We report the radiographic and clinical results including wrist range of motion, grip strength, use of pain medication, pain severity and patient satisfaction. Mean postoperative flexion/extension was 74° (range 5°–150°) compared with 137° (range 70°–175°) for the uninvolved side. Mean grip strength was 22 kg for the involved side and 39 kg for uninvolved side. Fifteen of 31 patients reported moderate or severe pain after proximal row carpectomy, requiring wrist arthrodesis in four patients. Nearly half of patients involved in manual labour did not return to their pre-injury work status. Our findings suggest that proximal row carpectomy, when performed for static scapholunate dissociation, results in a stiffened, weakened wrist. When compared to historic series involving other treatments for scapholunate dissociation, patients are less likely to return to pre-injury occupation and have subjective and objective parameters that are below normally expected values after proximal row carpectomy performed for other conditions.
Intussusception of small intestine due to metastasis of large cell carcinoma of the lung with a rhabdoid phenotype
Authors: Otera H. , Ikeda F. , Nakagawa S. , Kono Y. , Sakurai T. , Tada K. , Hashimoto K. , Ikeda A.
Published: September 2010

Large cell carcinoma of the lung with a rhabdoid phenotype is a rare type of lung cancer, and does not commonly metastasize to the small intestine. Herein we describe a 63-yr-old Japanese male with ileus resulting from small intestinal metastasis from lung cancer. Tumour enlargement was rapid and could not be treated with chemotherapy.
The clinical utility of bronchoalveolar lavage in diffuse parenchymal lung disease
Authors: Wells A.U.
Published: September 2010

Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) has been used in diagnostic and prognostic evaluation in diffuse parenchymal lung disease for three decades and has a central role in the diagnosis of a number of rare disorders and in excluding opportunistic infection in treated patients. It also has an important place in the personal diagnostic algorithms of many experienced clinicians in the diagnosis of the more prevalent disorders, including sarcoidosis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. This use of BAL is not well captured in the medical literature, as most published studies pre-date changes in disease classification and fail to integrate BAL data with other clinical and radiological information. Further studies to quantify the value added by bronchoalveolar lavage in routine practice are urgently required.
Empyema thoracis: new insights into an old disease
Authors: Brims F.J.H. , Lansley S.M. , Waterer G.W. , Lee Y.C.G.
Published: September 2010

Pleural infection is a disease of historical importance and is still a modern menace, with incidences rising in adults and children, and a significant mortality in adults. Basic research is hampered by limitations within vivomodels, and the bacteriology of empyema is complex. The role of thoracic ultrasound in guiding investigation and drainage of empyema is clear. Prompt treatment with appropriate systemic antibiotics and chest tube drainage are the key; in cases of failure of these measures, thoracic surgery is of proven efficacy in the treatment of this age-old disease.
Using the Principles of BIO2010 to Develop an Introductory, Interdisciplinary Course for Biology Students
Authors: Matthews Kelly E. , Adams Peter , Goos Merrilyn
Published: September 2010

Modern biological sciences require practitioners to have increasing levels of knowledge, competence, and skills in mathematics and programming. A recent review of the science curriculum at the University of Queensland, a large, research-intensive institution in Australia, resulted in the development of a more quantitatively rigorous undergraduate program. Inspired by the National Research Council's BIO2010 report, a new interdisciplinary first-year course (SCIE1000) was created, incorporating mathematics and computer programming in the context of modern science. In this study, the perceptions of biological science students enrolled in SCIE1000 in 2008 and 2009 are measured. Analysis indicates that, as a result of taking SCIE1000, biological science students gained a positive appreciation of the importance of mathematics in their discipline. However, the data revealed that SCIE1000 did not contribute positively to gains in appreciation for computing and only slightly influenced students' motivation to enroll in upper-level quantitative-based courses. Further comparisons between 2008 and 2009 demonstrated the positive effect of using genuine, real-world contexts to enhance student perceptions toward the relevance of mathematics. The results support the recommendation from BIO2010 that mathematics should be introduced to biology students in first-year courses using real-world examples, while challenging the benefits of introducing programming in first-year courses.
Tumor necrosis factor α-converting enzyme (TACE/ADAM17) mediates ectodomain shedding of the scavenger receptor CD163
Authors: Etzerodt Anders , Maniecki Maciej Bogdan , Møller Kirsten , Møller Holger Jon , Moestrup Søren Kragh
Published: September 2010

TACE/ADAM17-mediated shedding of CD163 likely explains the empirical relationship between the sCD163 plasma level and infectious/inflammatory diseases relating to macrophage activity.

CD163 is expressed specifically in the monocyte/macrophage lineage, where it mediates uptake of haptoglobin-hemoglobin complexes, leading to metabolism of the oxidative heme molecule. Shedding of the CD163 ectodomain from the cell surface produces a sCD163 plasma protein, and a positive correlation is seen between the sCD163 plasma level and the severity of various infectious and inflammatory diseases. In the present analysis of the phorbol ester-induced shedding of sCD163 in CD163 cDNA-transfected HEK293 cells, we used metalloproteinase inhibitors and siRNA-mediated inhibition of metalloproteinases to identify TACE/ADAM17 as an enzyme responsible for PMA-induced cleavage of the membrane-proximal region of CD163. As TACE/ADAM17-mediated shedding of TNF-α is up-regulated in macrophages subjected to inflammatory stimuli, the present results now provide a likely explanation for the strong empirical relationship between the sCD163 plasma level and infectious/inflammatory diseases relating to macrophage activity.
To Enhance the Energy Efficiency of Chiller Plants with System Optimization Theory
Authors: Chen Chun-Wei , Lee Cheng-Wen , Chen Chia-Yon
Published: September 2010

Conventional chiller plants rely on human judgment or control, based on pressure and temperature variables for setting and adjusting component-operating status. However, these methods lack scientific, systematic, and optimal logic and results in imprecise operation and excessive energy consumption. This study proposes a new control model for chiller plant operation. The new model is built upon System Optimization Theory and based on actual cooling capacity for operating adjustment, and with performance, condition, and relevance of each component during actual operation. It also uses an actual case study to test model rationality and efficiency. Test results show that the new control model achieves better energy efficiency operations in the original chiller plant.
Performance of Skart: A Skewness- and Autoregression-Adjusted Batch Means Procedure for Simulation Analysis
Authors: Tafazzoli Ali , Wilson James R. , Lada Emily K. , Steiger Natalie M.
Published: September 2010

An analysis is given for an extensive experimental performance evaluation of Skart, an automated sequential batch means procedure for constructing an asymptotically valid confidence interval (CI) on the steady-state mean of a simulation output process. Skart is designed to deliver a CI satisfying user-specified requirements on absolute or relative precision as well as coverage probability. Skart exploits separate adjustments to the half-length of the classical batch means CI so as to account for the effects on the distribution of the underlying Student's t-statistic that arise from skewness (nonnormality) and autocorrelation of the batch means. Skart also delivers a point estimator for the steady-state mean that is approximately free of initialization bias. In an experimental performance evaluation involving a wide range of test processes, Skart compared favorably with other steady-state simulation analysis methods—namely, its predecessors ASAP3, WASSP, and SBatch, as well as ABATCH, LBATCH, the Heidelberger–Welch procedure, and the Law–Carson procedure. Specifically, Skart exhibited competitive sampling efficiency and closer conformance to the given CI coverage probabilities than the other procedures, especially in the most difficult test processes.
A Parallel Algorithm for the Vehicle Routing Problem
Authors: Groër Chris , Golden Bruce , Wasil Edward
Published: September 2010

The vehicle routing problem (VRP) is a difficult and well-studied combinatorial optimization problem. We develop a parallel algorithm for the VRP that combines a heuristic local search improvement procedure with integer programming. We run our parallel algorithm with as many as 129 processors and are able to quickly find high-quality solutions to standard benchmark problems. We assess the impact of parallelism by analyzing our procedure's performance under a number of different scenarios.
Painful Eye Injuries with Improper Use of Clear Care Solution Questionable Safety with Continuous Inhalation Albuterol Infusion Set-up Avoid Methylene Blue Overdose Risk
Authors: Cohen Michael R. , Smetzer Judy L.
Published: September 2010

These medication errors have occurred in health care facilities at least once. They will happen again—perhaps where you work. Through education and alertness of personnel and procedural safeguards, they can be avoided. You should consider publishing accounts of errors in your newsletters and/or presenting them at your inservice training programs.

Your assistance is required to continue this feature. The reports described here were received through the Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) Medication Errors Reporting Program. Any reports published by ISMP will be anonymous. Comments are also invited; the writers' names will be published if desired. ISMP may be contacted at the address shown below.

Errors, close calls, or hazardous conditions may be reported directly to ISMP through the ISMP Web site ( www.ismp.org ), by calling 800-FAIL-SAFE, or via e-mail at ismpinfo@ismp.org . ISMP guarantees the confidentiality and security of the information received and respects reporters' wishes as to the level of detail included in publications.
Ciprofloxacin-Induced Immunoglobulin a Disease; Palonosetron-Induced Anaphylaxis; Guillain-Barré Syndrome following H1N1 Immunization; Acute Profound Thrombocytopenia following Eptifibatide Administration; Clozapine-Associated Cerebral Venous Thrombosis; Three Excellent Reviews: Drug-Induced Black Hairy Tongue, Increased C. difficile Infections with PPI Prophylaxis, and Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Shuster Joel
Published: September 2010

The purpose of this feature is to heighten awareness of specific adverse drug reactions (ADRs), discuss methods of prevention, and promote reporting of ADRs to the US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA's) MedWatch program (800-FDA-1088). If you have reported an interesting, preventable ADR to MedWatch, please consider sharing the account with our readers.
Pharmacist-Managed Direct Thrombin Inhibitor Protocol Improves Care of Patients with Heparin-Induced Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Lobo Bob , Finch Christopher K. , Howard-Thompson Amanda , Gillion Amanda
Published: September 2010

Use of direct-thrombin inhibitors (DTIs) for the management of patients with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) is challenging. A pharmacist-managed DTI protocol was implemented to standardize and improve the care of patients with HIT. A background study that compared DTI protocol–treated patients to those who did not receive treatment with the DTI protocol found that significantly more of the DTI protocol–treated patients received care that was consistent with level 1 guidelines from the American College of Chest Physicians (41% vs 0%). Because outcomes were poor regardless of whether the DTI protocol was used, the protocol was revised to require pharmacist implementation and oversight. A follow-up study compared DTI protocol patients from the background study (non-pharmacist-managed) to the pharmacist-managed DTI protocol group. There were significantly fewer dosing errors, improved nursing documentation, and less reexposure to heparin when the pharmacist was responsible for managing the DTI protocol. A trend toward reduced bleeding was noted. The management of patients with HIT is complex, and there are a number of pitfalls that may lead to poor outcomes. DTIs are high-risk medications that require careful dosing and monitoring to minimize risk for adverse drug events. A DTI protocol may improve care of patients with HIT, and pharmacist oversight of DTI use can help to reduce risk for errors and adverse medication events.
Rifaximin
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Levien Terri L. , Baker Danial E.
Published: September 2010

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing inservices. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available online. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. Subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service also receive access to a pharmacy bulletin board, The Formulary Information Exchange (The F.I.X.). All topics pertinent to clinical and hospital pharmacy are discussed on The F.I.X.

Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service or The F.I.X., call The Formulary at 800-322-4349. The September 2010 monograph topics are on buprenorphine transdermal system, cabazitaxel, memantine extended-release, mometasone furoate and fomoterol fumarate inhalation aerosol, and alpha1-proteinase inhibitor (human). The DUE/MUE is on buprenorphine transdermal system.
Dynamic Properties of Human Brain Structure: Learning-Related Changes in Cortical Areas and Associated Fiber Connections
Authors: Taubert Marco , Draganski Bogdan , Anwander Alfred , Müller Karsten , Horstmann Annette , Villringer Arno , Ragert Patrick
Published: September 2010

Recent findings in neuroscience suggest that adult brain structure changes in response to environmental alterations and skill learning. Whereas much is known about structural changes after intensive practice for several months, little is known about the effects of single practice sessions on macroscopic brain structure and about progressive (dynamic) morphological alterations relative to improved task proficiency during learning for several weeks. Using T1-weighted and diffusion tensor imaging in humans, we demonstrate significant gray matter volume increases in frontal and parietal brain areas following only two sessions of practice in a complex whole-body balancing task. Gray matter volume increase in the prefrontal cortex correlated positively with subject's performance improvements during a 6 week learning period. Furthermore, we found that microstructural changes of fractional anisotropy in corresponding white matter regions followed the same temporal dynamic in relation to task performance. The results make clear how marginal alterations in our ever changing environment affect adult brain structure and elucidate the interrelated reorganization in cortical areas and associated fiber connections in correlation with improvements in task performance.
The Medial Preoptic Nucleus Integrates the Central Influences of Testosterone on the Paraventricular Nucleus of the Hypothalamus and Its Extended Circuitries
Authors: Williamson Martin , Bingham Brenda , Gray Megan , Innala Leyla , Viau Victor
Published: September 2010

Testosterone contributes to sex differences in hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) function in humans and rodents, but the central organization of this regulation remains unclear. The medial preoptic nucleus (MPN) stands out as an important candidate in this regard because it contains androgen receptors and projects to forebrain nuclei integrating cognitive–affective information and regulating HPA responses to homeostatic threat. These include the HPA effector neurons of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus, medial amygdala, and lateral septum. To test the extent to which androgen receptors in the MPN engage these cell groups, we compared in adult male rats the effects of unilateral microimplants of testosterone and the androgen receptor antagonist hydroxyflutamide into the MPN on acute restraint induced activation and/or neuropeptide expression levels. The basic effects of these implants were lateralized to the sides of the nuclei ipsilateral to the implants. Testosterone, but not hydroxyflutamide implants, decreased stress-induced Fos and arginine vasopressin (AVP) heteronuclear RNA expression in the PVN, as well as Fos expression in the lateral septum. In unstressed animals, AVP mRNA expression in the PVN decreased and increased in response to testosterone and hydroxflutamide MPN implants, respectively. The differential influences of these implants on AVP mRNA expression were opposite in the medial amygdala. These results confirm a role for androgen receptors in the MPN to concurrently modulate neuropeptide expression and activational responses in the PVN and its extended circuitries. This suggests that the MPN is capable of bridging converging limbic influences to the HPA axis with changes in gonadal status.
Rapid Delivery of Internalized Signaling Receptors to the Somatodendritic Surface by Sequence-Specific Local Insertion
Authors: Yu Y. Joy , Dhavan Rani , Chevalier Michael W. , Yudowski Guillermo A. , von Zastrow Mark
Published: September 2010

The recycling pathway is a major route for delivering signaling receptors to the somatodendritic plasma membrane. We investigated the cell biological basis for the remarkable selectivity and speed of this process. We focused on the μ-opioid neuropeptide receptor and the β2-adrenergic catecholamine receptor, two seven-transmembrane signaling receptors that traverse the recycling pathway efficiently after ligand-induced endocytosis and localize at steady state throughout the postsynaptic surface. Rapid recycling of each receptor in dissociated neuronal cultures was mediated by a receptor-specific cytoplasmic sorting sequence. Total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy imaging revealed that both sequences drive recycling via discrete vesicular fusion events in the cell body and dendritic shaft. Both sequences promoted recycling via “transient”-type events characterized by nearly immediate lateral spread of receptors after vesicular insertion resembling receptor insertion events observed previously in non-neural cells. The sequences differed in their abilities to produce distinct “persistent”-type events at which inserted receptors lingered for a variable time period before lateral spread. Both types of insertion event generated a uniform distribution of receptors in the somatodendritic plasma membrane when imaged over a 1 min interval, but persistent events uniquely generated a punctate surface distribution over a 10 s interval. These results establish sequence-directed recycling of signaling receptors in CNS neurons and show that this mechanism has the ability to generate receptor-specific patterns of local surface distribution on a timescale overlapping that of rapid physiological signaling.