bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemispheric-Scale Seasonality of the Southern Annular Mode and Impacts on the Climate of New Zealand
Authors: Kidston J. , Renwick J. A. , McGregor J.
Published: April 2009

The seasonality of the southern annular mode (SAM) and the resulting impacts on the climate variability of New Zealand (NZ) are investigated. As with previous studies, during summer the SAM is found to be largely zonally symmetric, whereas during winter it exhibits increased zonal wavenumber 2–3 variability. This is consistent with seasonal variations in the mean state, and the authors argue that the seasonal cycle of near-surface temperature over the Australian continent plays an important role, making the eddy-driven jet, and hence the SAM, more zonally symmetric during summer than winter. During winter, the SAM exhibits little variability over the South Pacific and southeast of Australia. Dynamical reasons for this behavior are discussed.

For the NZ region this seasonality implies that fluctuations in the SAM are associated with a zonal wind speed anomaly during summer but a more meridional wind speed anomaly during winter. This behavior is well captured by temperature and rainfall station data, which serves to corroborate the seasonal changes seen in the large-scale analysis. Moreover, the mode of climate variability that corresponds to a fluctuation of the zonal wind speed is well correlated with the SAM during the summer only and exhibits less variance during the winter. This is consistent with the notion that the seasonality of the SAM significantly impacts modes of climate variability in the region.
Toward Better Understanding of the Contiguous Rain Area (CRA) Method for Spatial Forecast Verification
Authors: Ebert Elizabeth E. , Gallus William A.
Published: April 2009

The contiguous rain area (CRA) method for spatial forecast verification is a features-based approach that evaluates the properties of forecast rain systems, namely, their location, size, intensity, and finescale pattern. It is one of many recently developed spatial verification approaches that are being evaluated as part of a Spatial Forecast Verification Methods Intercomparison Project. To better understand the strengths and weaknesses of the CRA method, it has been tested here on a set of idealized geometric and perturbed forecasts with known errors, as well as nine precipitation forecasts from three high-resolution numerical weather prediction models.

The CRA method was able to identify the known errors for the geometric forecasts, but only after a modification was introduced to allow nonoverlapping forecast and observed features to be matched. For the perturbed cases in which a radar rain field was spatially translated and amplified to simulate forecast errors, the CRA method also reproduced the known errors except when a high-intensity threshold was used to define the CRA (≥10 mm h−1) and a large translation error was imposed (>200 km). The decomposition of total error into displacement, volume, and pattern components reflected the source of the error almost all of the time when a mean squared error formulation was used, but not necessarily when a correlation-based formulation was used.

When applied to real forecasts, the CRA method gave similar results when either best-fit criteria, minimization of the mean squared error, or maximization of the correlation coefficient, was chosen for matching forecast and observed features. The diagnosed displacement error was somewhat sensitive to the choice of search distance. Of the many diagnostics produced by this method, the errors in the mean and peak rain rate between the forecast and observed features showed the best correspondence with subjective evaluations of the forecasts, while the spatial correlation coefficient (after matching) did not reflect the subjective judgments.
Design, Realization and Evaluation of a Component-based, Compositional Network Simulation Environment
Authors: Tyan Hung-ying , Sobeih Ahmed , Hou Jennifer C.
Published: April 2009

In this paper, we present a component-based network simulation environment that provides a systematic way to simulate, with high fidelity, protocol operations in a variety of target network architectures. We take a four-step approach to developing such a composable network simulation environment with reusable components. First, we lay a component-based software architecture, called the autonomous component architecture (ACA). Second, we propose a new real-time, process-driven simulation technique that fits naturally in ACA and simulates the real system realistically. Third, we devise a packet-based network simulation framework, called extensible internetworking framework (INET), on top of ACA. Fourth, we implement in Java both ACA and INET, and several representative suites of protocol components in a variety of network architectures. The resulting codes, along with a scripting framework, constitute a network simulation environment called J-Sim. By virtue of the many desirable features inherited from ACA, the J-Sim environment meets the flexibility, composability, reusability, extensibility and diagnosability requirements. The price J-Sim pays for the many desirable features is, however, the inter-component communication overhead. In this paper, we show (via experimentation) that this overhead is not significant (in the range of 0.2—0.6 μs), and J-Sim achieves better scalability than two other network simulators in the public domains, ns-2 and Scalable Simulation Framework Network Models (SSFNET), in terms of both the experiment setup time and the simulation completion time.
Tools for Graphical Specification and Visualization of DEVS Models
Authors: Wainer Gabriel , Qi Liu
Published: April 2009

We introduce advanced graphical modeling and visualization facilities for Discrete Event System Specification (DEVS) modeling and simulation (M&S) in the CD++ environment. The objective is to provide general users with a variety of easy-to-use environments to facilitate the model analysis process and thereby promoting the adoption of M&S by a wider community of practitioners and researchers. CD++Modeler allows users without much experience in software development to construct rather complex DEVS models and to analyze simulation data using 2D graphics. We also introduce a graphical platform called MAPS designed specifically for urban traffic systems, and other advanced 3D animation tools (CD++/VRML, CD++/Maya, CD++DEVSView, and CD++/Blender) based on both commercial and open-source software packages. We elaborate on the design of these toolkits and demonstrate their capabilities as well as relative merits and limitations with realistic applications. Following a highly modular approach, the resulting architecture can be easily extended to incorporate other modeling and visualization techniques in future development. We show that these facilities can reduce the model development cost significantly, lower the learning curve for general users, and improve the comprehension of continuously evolving models, making them suitable for efficient decision making.
A Novel Distributed Simulation Approach in Adaptive Distance Relaying
Authors: Gohari Sadr V. , Kouhsari S.M.
Published: April 2009

In this paper, an adaptive distance relaying strategy based on the global network simulation (GNS) concept is presented. The GNS concept is actually a distributed simulation approach (DSA) for piecewise analysis of large-scale power grids using diakoptics and large change sensitivity (LCS) concepts. To set each utility's relays trip settings adaptively in each power system condition, detailed short circuit analysis is run in the GNS environment. It first updates the pre-fault voltage profile across utilities and then modifies their nodal ZBus in such a way to reflect the effect of the whole network in local fault studies performed by individual utilities; hence, presenting an accurate and secure federative approach on a geographically decomposed grid using local information and computational resources. A set of currently experienced rules in distance coordination is outlined and adaptive as well as conventional relay zone settings in each sub-network are calculated based on the selected rules. An efficient easy-to-implement algorithm to consider the effect of zero sequence mutual impedance among parallel lines is also presented and well integrated into the proposed adaptive approach in the GNS environment. The IEEE 14 bus test system and a real version of a large-scale grid with more than 2,600 buses are used to illustrate the characteristics of the proposed adaptive strategy in terms of security and dependability by comparison with conventional distance protection.
Shyness as a Risk-Factor for Somatic Complaints Among Norwegian Adolescents
Authors: Henriksen Roger E. , Murberg Terje A.
Published: April 2009

The associations between shyness, school-related stress, social support and somatic complaints, were assessed in a sample of 501 pupils from two secondary schools in Norway. The main finding from this cross-sectional study revealed a positive significant association between shyness and somatic complaints. Findings also showed a significant positive association between perceived school-related stress and somatic complaints, while there was a negative relationship between emotional support from teachers and somatic complaints. Girls reported a significantly higher degree of somatic complaints than boys did. No significant differences between the genders were found in level of reported shyness.
Effects of an Internet Physical Activity Intervention in Adults With Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Bosak Kelly A. , Yates Bernice , Pozehl Bunny
Published: April 2009

The Internet is a relatively new method of delivering strategies for health behavior change. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of delivering a physical activity intervention by the Internet to improve outcomes in adults with the metabolic syndrome. Twenty-two participants (16 males; 6 females) were recruited from a cardiology clinic database, age range 32-66 years. Participants were randomly assigned to the Internet intervention ( n = 12) or the usual care ( n = 10) group. The mean total dose, in terms of the time the intervention Web site was accessed was 2 hours over 6 weeks, which was greater than the time spent delivering usual care. Overall, participants_ evaluations of the Internet intervention were positive. The costs of development and delivery of the Internet intervention were less than that of a consultation and follow-up in the cardiology clinic for this sample. The Internet intervention appears feasible for testing in a larger study.
Social Support and Anomie
Authors: Liqun Cao  , Ruohui Zhao  , Ling Ren  , Zhao Jihong "Solomon"
Published: April 2009

On the basis of the reasoning of social support theory, the authors examine the macro effect of social support on anomie at the individual level. Data from international surveys have documented wide variation in anomie across nations, but to what extent this variation among nations can be contributed to structural characteristics has not been explored before. Using hierarchical linear modeling techniques to sort out the effects of structural context and personal characteristics on anomie across 31 European and North American nations, the authors test the hypothesis that variation in social support at the national level is inversely related to individuals’ sense of anomie. The study results support the hypothesis that structural characteristics of a nation, such as social support and population growth, influence individuals’ sense of anomie. At the individual level, the results are consistent with Merton’s predictions about anomie and the reasoning of social support theory. Policy implication is discussed within the limitations of data.
“You're Only Young Once”
Authors: Ravert Russell D.
Published: April 2009

This exploratory study examined the extent to which emerging adult college students report engaging in behaviors now because they feel they will lose those opportunities later in life. Students at a large Midwestern U.S. university ( N = 248) reported how often they do or try something because they will not be able to do it later as an adult and listed examples of those activities. A majority of students (76%) listed at least one such behavior. Analysis of the listed behaviors uncovered 8 thematic categories: (a) travel/adventure, (b) social events, (c) alcohol/tobacco/drug use, (d) relationships, (e) carefree lifestyle, (f) sports/action, (g) academic/career, and (h) independence/ personal expression. Implications for studies of emerging adulthood development and risk-taking are discussed.
Evaluating the Quality of Italian Local Vocational Training Systems
Authors: Di Battista Giuseppe , Palomba Luisa , Vergani Alberto
Published: April 2009

In Europe, the aim of achieving a knowledge-based society makes the quality of training systems a topic of crucial importance. Italy is also interested in working out strategies and tools for improving its training supply. To this end the Ministry of Labour asked a public research institute, the Institute for the Development of Workers' Vocational Training (ISFOL), to design a self-assessment tool (SAT) for evaluating the quality of regional training systems. The article tracks the logical and chronological course undertaken to design the SAT, bearing in mind the current conditions of Italian public authorities responsible for the programming, management and evaluation of vocational education and training policies. The SAT methodological choices and its design are described, as well as its application by all Italian central and northern regions. The article concludes by mapping out ways in which the SAT can be used and pointing out some still unresolved issues.
Comparing Gross and Net Employment Outcomes from Structural Fund Programmes
Authors: Munday Max , Williams Gareth
Published: April 2009

This article examines the relationship between the gross and net employment outcomes from the largest EU structural funding programme in the UK, the Objective 1 West Wales and the Valleys programme. The article demonstrates the practical difficulties of moving from gross to net outputs. It is suggested that these difficulties are not always explicitly considered in EU programme evaluations. One result is that, in the UK at least, previous evaluations of the relationship between gross and net employment outcomes may have overestimated the additionality of the European structural funding element.
The Public Stigma of Mental Illness and Drug Addiction
Authors: Corrigan Patrick W. , Kuwabara Sachiko A . , O'Shaughnessy John
Published: April 2009

• Summary: Previous research has shown that people labeled with drug addiction are viewed as more blameworthy and dangerous compared to individuals labeled with mental illness who, in turn, are viewed more harshly than those with physical disabilities. Endorsement of such stereotypes often lead to less helping behavior and more avoidance of people with drug addiction compared to those with mental illness. In this study, attribution and dangerousness models are tested on a stratified random sample of the US population. The sample was recruited from a national online research panel ( N = 815). Research participants read a vignette about a person with one of the three health conditions (mental illness, drug addiction, or physically handicapped in a wheelchair) and were asked to complete items representing attribution and dangerousness judgments about the person.

• Findings: Results are consistent with our hypotheses. Addicted to drugs was seen as more blameworthy and dangerous compared to mental illness.

• Applications : These findings are important for framing the stigma and stereotypes of mental illness and drug addiction are discussed. In turn, these kinds of basic models will inform stigma change efforts of advocates.
Knowing or Un-knowing? That is the Question
Authors: Blom Björn
Published: April 2009

• Summary: A present trend in social work is the focus on evidence-based knowledge. This kind of knowledge does fill a purpose, but is not sufficient on its own. The article argues that social workers need a complement to knowing, and this approach could be conceptualized as un-knowing. In this article, a theory of un-knowing for social work practice is outlined. This implies a theoretical scrutiny of knowing and un-knowing and a discussion of how it can be used in practice. Moreover, the article presents findings from an empirical study of social work students who describe their usage of different forms of knowledge reflexively.

• Findings: The article presents the results of a study in which social work students' usage of different forms of knowledge in their field studies was examined. The results demonstrate that social work students use different forms of knowledge in practice, and un-knowing is one of the actively used forms. Women tend to use un-knowing somewhat more than men.

• Applications : The article is a contribution to the ongoing debate on evidence-based practice in social work. It is argued that it is important to teach social work students to understand un-knowing in theory and to use it in practice, and in combination with other forms of knowledge in social work.
The Central Role of the Therapeutic Bond in a Social Agency Setting
Authors: Knei-Paz Cigal
Published: April 2009

• Summary: This article describes the results of a qualitative research project that was carried out in a social service agency in central Israel. The aim of the research was to identify essential elements in the creation of a positive intervention experience involving social workers and families in distress.

• Findings: The main findings of the research are described and analyzed within the framework of institutional, social and political contexts, using Denzin's critical-interpretive approach. It was found that at the basis of what is conceived of as a positive intervention experienced by both families in distress and social workers alike, lies the quality of the bond that was established between these two groups. As a result of the bond, based on relations of trust and closeness, the clients experienced a significant relief from the weight of their distress and reported changes in their self-image and in their family relations. However, the work setting in the social agency — a heavy workload, extensive burdens of bureaucracy, and budgetary limitations — made it impossible for social workers to devote themselves appropriately to cultivating the bond.

• Applications : The research here described also indicates that there is need for a `social dialogue' between social workers and clients in order to clarify the connection between individual family problems and the socio-political situation in Israel and to facilitate a greater role for the general public in matters concerning families in distress.
Fabled Uncertainty in Social Work
Authors: White Sue
Published: April 2009

• Summary: In a recent issue of this journal, Marlee Spafford and her colleagues reported on a Canadian study of social work, medical and optometry students. One of their findings was that the novice social workers viewed the acknowledgement of uncertainty as a hallmark of professional competence. Drawing on data from UK-based studies of professional reasoning, this article challenges the notion that social work has embraced and engaged with uncertainty.

• Findings: Despite the obvious ambiguities of many cases, much of the time social workers often feel very sure of their formulations. This is because social work takes place in the terrain of human relationships about which we all, qua human beings, routinely make moral evaluations in everyday life. Rhetoric of complexity and reflection should not be confused with uncertainty.

• Applications : This article endorses Spafford et al.'s respect for uncertainty and tentativeness, but argues that it is folly to think that we already have it in social work. A tentative and sceptical vocabulary of the emotional and moral domain is required if social work is indeed to embrace and acknowledge the limits and fallibilities of its technologies and practices.
A Framework for Managing Wandering and Preventing Elopement
Authors: Moore D. Helen , Algase Donna L. , Powell-Cope Gail , Applegarth Shawn , Beattie Elizabeth R. A.
Published: April 2009

Purpose of the Study: A framework aids choice of interventions to manage wandering and prevent elopement in consideration of associated risks and mobility needs of wanderers. Design and Methods: A literature review, together with research results, published wandering tools, clinical reports, author clinical experience, and consensus-based judgments was used to build a decision-making framework. Results: Referencing a published definition of wandering and originating a clinical description of problematic wandering, authors introduce a framework comprising (1) wandering and related behaviors; (2) goals of wandering-specific care, (3) interpersonally, technologically, and policy-mediated wandering interventions, and (4) estimates of relative frequencies of wandering behaviors, magnitudes of elopement risk, and restrictiveness of strategies. Implications: Safeguarding wanderers from elopement risk is rendered person-centered and humane when goals of care guide intervention choice. Despite limitations, a reasoned, systematized approach to wandering management provides a basis for tailoring a specialized program of care. The need for framework refinement and related research is emphasized.
Awareness and Attitude of Health Workers at a Nigerian HIV Treatment Clinic Toward HIV/AIDS and HAART Adherence
Authors: Olowookere Samuel A. , Fatiregun Akinola A. , Osagbemi Kayode G.
Published: April 2009

Objective. To assess the awareness and attitude of antiretroviral clinic workers to HIV/AIDS and highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study design using a self-administered questionnaire was used. Results. Of the 43 staff, 39 (92.5%) completed the questionnaire. Their mean age was 35.1 + 7.6 years. There were 19 (48.7%) males and 20 (51.7%) females. The majority (87.2%) had tertiary education. More than three fifths (61.5%) were married. There were 20 (51.3%) professional staff and 19 (48.7%) support staff. Only 28.2% of staff members had ever received on-the-job training in HIV/AIDS care. None of the adherence counselors had ever received any training in HIV/AIDS care and HAART adherence counseling. Despite this lack of training, this majority of the clinic staff had good knowledge about and a positive attitude to HIV/AIDS and HAART adherence. Conclusion. Adherence counselors and support staff required on-the-job training for optimum job performance.
The Case of the Wretched Retcher
Authors: Cook Robin C. , Blinman Thane A.
Published: April 2009

Fundoplication is an effective treatment for severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) because it provides a mechanical solution to what is essentially a mechanical, not a medical, problem. However, manifestations of feeding intolerance postfundoplasty are well known and include dysphagia, gastric dysfunction, retching, gagging, intestinal dysfunction, and gas bloat syndrome. These difficulties are exacerbated by feeding plans that disregard the mechanical constraints imposed by the operation, particularly limited gastric volume, decreased gastric compliance, diminished ability to burp, sensitivity to osmolarity, and formula composition. These complications are preventable and treatable by informed construction of feeding plans that limit boluses (around 15 mL/kg/bolus), promote proper motility, manage intraluminal air, and limit polypharmacy. This case presentation describes a postfundoplasty infant with severe retching and intolerance treated according to these principles.
Enhancing Literacy in the Second Grade
Authors: Darrow Alice-Ann , Cassidy Jane W. , Flowers Patricia J. , Register Dena , Sims Wendy , Standley Jayne M. , Menard Elizabeth , Swedberg Olivia
Published: April 2009

The purpose of these five related studies was to ascertain the effects of a music curriculum designed to enhance reading skills of second-grade students. The dependent variables were subtest scores on the Gates-MacGinitie Reading Test administered pre and post the music/reading intervention. Results showed that the total test gain scores of children receiving the music/reading curriculum were somewhat higher than those for control conditions in four of the five studies, but not significantly so. At the second site, gain scores were basically the same. All sites informally observed teacher and pupil enthusiasm for the music for reading curriculum. Though postreading scores were statistically equivalent among groups, it should be noted that in most sites, the music/reading curriculum time replaced reading instruction time. The value of this project is that it demonstrates the general benefits of music as a viable methodology for teaching reading skills at a comparable level while promoting enjoyment in an important academic area.
Aesthetic Experiences With Music
Authors: Paul Phyllis M.
Published: April 2009

This study, which is a replication and extension of earlier research by Paul, examines the correspondence of perceived aesthetic experiences between musicians, in the present investigation, and children, from Paul's previous experiment. As did fourth-grade students ( N = 60) in Paul's earlier study, 56 adult musicians listened to Rachmaninoff's Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, Op. 43, Variation 18, and used a Continuous Response Digital Interface (CRDI) to simultaneously indicate reactions. Mean group responses were calculated and graphed. Visual analysis of graphs indicates that children did not differ substantially from musicians in their reaction to the excerpt, and correspondence between the two groups, computed using Pearson correlation coefficients, showed a strong positive correlation, r = .87, which was significant at the p < .001 level. These results are consistent with those from previous studies that found little difference in the frequency or magnitude of perceived aesthetic responses between adult musicians and nonmusicians.
Elevated levels of soluble P-selectin in mice alter blood-brain barrier function, exacerbate stroke, and promote atherosclerosis
Authors: Kisucka Janka , Chauhan Anil K. , Zhao Bing-Qiao , Patten Ian S. , Yesilaltay Ayce , Krieger Monty , Wagner Denisa D.
Published: April 2009

Cerebrovascular and cardiovascular diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Soluble P-selectin (sP-selectin) is a biomarker for platelet/endothelial activation and is considered a risk factor for vascular disease. sP-selectin enhances procoagulant activity by inducing leukocyte-derived microparticle production and promotes activation of leukocyte integrins. However, it is not known whether it directly contributes to vascular complications. We investigated the effect of increased levels of sP-selectin on blood-brain barrier (BBB) function, stroke outcome, and atherosclerosis by comparing wild-type mice with P-selΔCT/ΔCT mice in which the endogenous P-selectin gene was replaced with a mutant that produces abnormally high plasma levels of sP-selectin. P-selΔCT/ΔCT mice presented several abnormalities, including (1) higher BBB permeability, with 25% of the animals showing differential permeability between the right and left hemispheres; (2) altered social behavior with increased aggression; (3) larger infarcts in the middle cerebral artery occlusion ischemic stroke model; and (4) increased susceptibility to atherosclerotic, macrophage-rich lesion development in both male and female mice on the apoE−/− genetic background. Thus, elevated sP-selectin is not only a biomarker for vascular disease, but also may contribute directly to atherosclerosis and cerebrovascular complications.
Ex vivocytokine release reflects sensitivity to occupational endotoxin exposure
Authors: Smit L. A. M. , Heederik D. , Doekes G. , Krop E. J. M. , Rijkers G. T. , Wouters I. M.
Published: April 2009

Not everyone exposed to endotoxin develops respiratory symptoms, even at very high exposure levels. The aim was to investigate whetherex vivolipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cytokine release may be predictive of individual sensitivity to occupational endotoxin exposure.

In 412 agricultural workers, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-10 release was measured in supernatants from LPS-stimulated whole blood, lung function was measured, and respiratory symptoms were assessed by questionnaire. For each cytokine, the population was dichotomised into low and high responders according to median cytokine concentrations. Endotoxin exposure levels were determined based on 249 personal exposure measurements.

High IL-10 responders had a higher prevalence of airway symptoms than low IL-10 responders (odds ratios between 2.03 and 5.10; p<0.05). TNF-α response was positively, but not significantly, associated with symptoms, whereas no relationship was found between IL-1β response and symptoms. For all three cytokines, subjects with above-median responses showed significant positive dose–response relationships between endotoxin exposure and asthma symptoms, and significant associations between endotoxin exposure and a lower forced expiratory volume in 1 s (p<0.05). In contrast, exposure–response relationships were weak and statistically nonsignificant for low responders.

Theex vivoinflammatory response to LPS reflects, to a large extent, whether individuals are susceptible to adverse respiratory effects induced by high occupational endotoxin exposure.
Anti-angiogenic activity of carebastine: a plausible mechanism affecting airway remodelling
Authors: De Luisi A. , Mangialardi G. , Ria R. , Acuto G. , Ribatti D. , Vacca A.
Published: April 2009

Ebastine is a well-known selective second-generation histamine H1receptor antagonist, which is used for seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis and chronic urticaria. Angiogenesis plays a crucial role in the development of airway inflammation and remodelling in allergic rhinitis and asthmatic patients, in whom, indeed, the mucosa displays increased vascularity and overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the anti-angiogenic properties of carebastine, the active metabolite of ebastine.

The effects of carebastine on human umbilical vein endothelial cell (EC) (HUVEC) and human pulmonary artery EC (HPAEC) proliferation, migration and capillary-like tube formation were investigatedin vitro, and in the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assayin vivo. Moreover, the effect of carebastine on phosphorylation of the cell VEGF receptor fetal liver kinase-1, or VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2), and Akt kinase (Akt) was evaluated by Western blotting.

Carebastine inhibited VEGF-induced HUVEC and HPAEC proliferation, migration and angiogenesis in a dose-dependent mannerin vitro. Cell proliferation was inhibited by 42 and 64% in HUVECs and 62 and 75% in HPAECs upon exposure for 48 and 72 h, respectively, to 20 μM carebastine (p≤0.03), and even more with 30 μM carebastine. Cell migration was inhibited by 37 and 70% in HUVECs (p≤0.03) and 60 and 78% in HPAECs (p≤0.01) in the presence of 10 and 30 μM carebastine, respectively. Carebastine (20 μM) caused a significant reduction (70−86%; p<0.01) in topological parameters of the capillary network producedin vitroby both EC lines on a basement membrane extract. Carebastine (30 and 50 μM) inhibited the VEGF-induced angiogenesis in the CAM assayin vivotwo- and three-fold, respectively (p<0.001). Finally, both EC lines, on exposure to 10 and 20 μM carebastine, showed a four- to six-fold reduction (p≤0.01) in both VEGF- and H1receptor-induced VEGFR-2 and Akt phosphorylation.

Overall, these data provide the first evidence regarding the anti-angiogenic activity of ebastine, and suggest its potential use as an anti-angiogenic molecule, besides its antihistaminic activity for the treatment of allergic diseases in which angiogenesis takes place.
Smoking cessation interventions in COPD: a network meta-analysis of randomised trials
Authors: Strassmann R. , Bausch B. , Spaar A. , Kleijnen J. , Braendli O. , Puhan M. A.
Published: April 2009

The aim of this study was to rank order the effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

We searched 10 databases to identify randomised trials of smoking cessation counselling (SCC) with or without pharmacotherapy or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). We conducted a network meta-analysis using logistic regression analyses to assess the comparative effectiveness of smoking cessation interventions while preserving randomisation of each trial.

The analysis of 7,372 COPD patients from six out of eight identified trials showed that SCC in combination with NRT had the greatest effect on prolonged abstinence ratesversususual care (OR 5.08, p<0.0001)versusSCC alone (2.80, p = 0.001) andversusSCC combined with an antidepressant (1.53, p = 0.28). The second most effective intervention was SCC combined with an antidepressant (3.32, p = 0.002)versusSCC alone (1.83, p = 0.007), with no difference between antidepressants. SCC alone was of borderline superiority compared with usual care (1.81, p = 0.07).

A small body of evidence suggests that SCC combined with NRT is more effective than other combinations and single smoking cessation treatments in COPD, but substantially more research is needed for this most important COPD treatment.
Comparative analysis indicates that alternative splicing in plants has a limited role in functional expansion of the proteome
Authors: Severing Edouard I , van Dijk Aalt DJ , Stiekema Willem J , van Ham Roeland CHJ
Published: April 2009

Background

Alternative splicing (AS) is a widespread phenomenon in higher eukaryotes but the extent to which it leads to functional protein isoforms and to proteome expansion at large is still a matter of debate. In contrast to animal species, for which AS has been studied extensively at the protein and functional level, protein-centered studies of AS in plant species are scarce. Here we investigate the functional impact of AS in dicot and monocot plant species using a comparative approach.

Results

Detailed comparison of AS events in alternative spliced orthologs from the dicot Arabidopsis thaliana and the monocot Oryza sativa (rice) revealed that the vast majority of AS events in both species do not result from functional conservation. Transcript isoforms that are putative targets for the nonsense-mediated decay (NMD) pathway are as likely to contain conserved AS events as isoforms that are translated into proteins. Similar results were obtained when the same comparison was performed between the two more closely related monocot species rice and Zea mays (maize).

Genome-wide computational analysis of functional protein domains encoded in alternatively and constitutively spliced genes revealed that only the RNA recognition motif (RRM) is overrepresented in alternatively spliced genes in all species analyzed. In contrast, three domain types were overrepresented in constitutively spliced genes. AS events were found to be less frequent within than outside predicted protein domains and no domain type was found to be enriched with AS introns. Analysis of AS events that result in the removal of complete protein domains revealed that only a small number of domain types is spliced-out in all species analyzed. Finally, in a substantial fraction of cases where a domain is completely removed, this domain appeared to be a unit of a tandem repeat.

Conclusion

The results from the ortholog comparisons suggest that the ability of a gene to produce more than one functional protein through AS does not persist during evolution. Cross-species comparison of the results of the protein-domain oriented analyses indicates little correspondence between the analyzed species. Based on the premise that functional genetic features are most likely to be conserved during evolution, we conclude that AS has only a limited role in functional expansion of the proteome in plants.
Effects of NR1 splicing on NR1/NR3B-type excitatory glycine receptors
Authors: Cavara Nora A , Orth Angela , Hollmann Michael
Published: April 2009

Background

N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors (NMDARs) are the most complex of ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs). Subunits of this subfamily assemble into heteromers, which – depending on the subunit combination – may display very different pharmacological and electrophysiological properties. The least studied members of the NMDAR family, the NR3 subunits, have been reported to assemble with NR1 to form excitatory glycine receptors in heterologous expression systems. The heterogeneity of NMDARs in vivo is in part conferred to the receptors by splicing of the NR1 subunit, especially with regard to proton sensitivity.

Results

Here, we have investigated whether the NR3B subunit is capable of assembly with each of the eight functional NR1 splice variants, and whether the resulting receptors share the unique functional properties described for NR1-1a/NR3. We provide evidence that functional excitatory glycine receptors formed regardless of the NR1 isoform, and their pharmacological profile matched the one reported for NR1-1a/NR3: glycine alone fully activated the receptors, which were insensitive to glutamate and block by Mg2+. Surprisingly, amplitudes of agonist-induced currents showed little dependency on the C-terminally spliced NR1 variants in NR1/NR3B diheteromers. Even more strikingly, NR3B conferred proton sensitivity also to receptors containing NR1b variants – possibly via disturbing the "proton shield" of NR1b splice variants.

Conclusion

While functional assembly could be demonstrated for all combinations, not all of the specific interactions seen for NR1 isoforms with coexpressed NR2 subunits could be corroborated for NR1 assembly with NR3. Rather, NR3 abates trafficking effects mediated by the NR1 C terminus as well as the N-terminally mediated proton insensitivity. Thus, this study establishes that NR3B overrides important NR1 splice variant-specific receptor properties in NR1/NR3B excitatory glycine receptors.
Plastid chaperonin proteins Cpn60α and Cpn60β are required for plastid division in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Suzuki Kenji , Nakanishi Hiromitsu , Bower Joyce , Yoder David W , Osteryoung Katherine W , Miyagishima Shin-ya
Published: April 2009

Background

Plastids arose from a free-living cyanobacterial endosymbiont and multiply by binary division as do cyanobacteria. Plastid division involves nucleus-encoded homologs of cyanobacterial division proteins such as FtsZ, MinD, MinE, and ARC6. However, homologs of many other cyanobacterial division genes are missing in plant genomes and proteins of host eukaryotic origin, such as a dynamin-related protein, PDV1 and PDV2 are involved in the division process. Recent identification of plastid division proteins has started to elucidate the similarities and differences between plastid division and cyanobacterial cell division. To further identify new proteins that are required for plastid division, we characterized previously and newly isolated plastid division mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana.

Results

Leaf cells of two mutants, br04 and arc2, contain fewer, larger chloroplasts than those of wild type. We found that ARC2 and BR04 are identical to nuclear genes encoding the plastid chaperonin 60α (ptCpn60α) and chaperonin 60β (ptCpn60β) proteins, respectively. In both mutants, plastid division FtsZ ring formation was partially perturbed though the level of FtsZ2-1 protein in plastids of ptcpn60β mutants was similar to that in wild type. Phylogenetic analyses showed that both ptCpn60 proteins are derived from ancestral cyanobacterial proteins. The A. thaliana genome encodes two members of ptCpn60α family and four members of ptCpn60β family respectively. We found that a null mutation in ptCpn60α abolished greening of plastids and resulted in an albino phenotype while a weaker mutation impairs plastid division and reduced chlorophyll levels. The functions of at least two ptCpn60β proteins are redundant and the appearance of chloroplast division defects is dependent on the number of mutant alleles.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that both ptCpn60α and ptCpn60β are required for the formation of a normal plastid division apparatus, as the prokaryotic counterparts are required for assembly of the cell division apparatus. Since moderate reduction of ptCpn60 levels impaired normal FtsZ ring formation but not import of FtsZ into plastids, it is suggested that the proper levels of ptCpn60 are required for folding of stromal plastid division proteins and/or regulation of FtsZ polymer dynamics.
Factors associated with self-care activities among adults in the United Kingdom: a systematic review
Authors: Ryan Angela , Wilson Sue , Taylor Aliki , Greenfield Sheila
Published: April 2009

Background

The Government has promoted self-care. Our aim was to review evidence about who uses self-tests and other self-care activities (over-the-counter medicine, private sector, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), home blood pressure monitors).

Methods

During April 2007, relevant bibliographic databases (Medline, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts, PsycINFO, British Nursing Index, Allied and Complementary Medicine Database, Sociological Abstracts, International Bibliography of the Social Sciences, Arthritis and Complementary Medicine Database, Complementary and Alternative Medicine and Pain Database) were searched, and potentially relevant studies were reviewed against eligibility criteria. Studies were included if they were published during the last 15 years and identified factors, reasons or characteristics associated with a relevant activity among UK adults. Two independent reviewers used proformas to assess the quality of eligible studies.

Results

206 potentially relevant papers were identified, 157 were excluded, and 49 papers related to 46 studies were included: 37 studies were, or used data from questionnaire surveys, 36 had quality scores of five or more out of 10, and 27 were about CAM. Available evidence suggests that users of CAM and over-the-counter medicine are female, middle-aged, affluent and/or educated with some measure of poor health, and that people who use the private sector are affluent and/or educated.

Conclusion

People who engage in these activities are likely to be affluent. Targeted promotion may, therefore, be needed to ensure that use is equitable. People who use some activities also appear to have poorer measures of health than non-users or people attending conventional services. It is, therefore, also important to ensure that self-care is not used as a second choice for people who have not had their needs met by conventional services.
Postmenopausal women with osteoarthritis and osteoporosis show different ultrastructural characteristics of trabecular bone of the femoral head
Authors: Shen Yun , Zhang Zi-Ming , Jiang Sheng-Dan , Jiang Lei-Sheng , Dai Li-Yang
Published: April 2009

Background

Osteoporosis (OP) and osteoarthritis (OA) are public health diseases affecting the quality of life of the elderly, and bring about a heavy burden to the society and family of patients. It has been debated whether or not there is an inverse relationship between these two disorders.

Methods

To compare the exact difference in bone tissue structure between osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, we observed the ultrastructure of trabecular bone from the femoral heads using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A total of 15 femoral head specimens from postmenopausal women were collected during the procedures of total or hemi hip replacement (OP, n = 8; OA, n = 7). The morphologic structure of the trabecular bone, collagen fibers, resorption lacuna and osteoblasts were observed.

Results

Under SEM, osteoporotic trabeculae appeared to be thinning, tapering, breaking and perforating. A number of resorption lacunae of various shapes were seen on the surface of the trabeculum. The collagen fibers of lacuna were resorbed. On occasion, naked granular bone crystals could be found. In the OA group, the trabecular bone looked thick with integrated structure. Reticular and granular new bone could be found. The trabeculum was covered by well-arranged collagen fibers around the resorption lacuna. In the OP group, under TEM, marginal collagen fibers were observed to be aligned loosely with enlarged spaces. A few inactive osteoblasts and no inflammatory cells were seen. In the OA group, the collagen fibers inside the trabeculum were arranged in a dense manner with many active osteoblasts and inflammatory cells infiltrating the matrix.

Conclusion

We found significant differences in the trabecular bone, collagen fibers, lacunae and osteoblasts between postmenopausal women with OP and OA. These findings support the hypothesis that there is an inverse relationship between OP and OA.
Herpes simplex virus infection in pregnancy and in neonate: status of art of epidemiology, diagnosis, therapy and prevention
Authors: Anzivino Elena , Fioriti Daniela , Mischitelli Monica , Bellizzi Anna , Barucca Valentina , Chiarini Fernanda , Pietropaolo Valeria
Published: April 2009

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is one of the most common viral sexually transmitted diseases worldwide. The first time infection of the mother may lead to severe illness in pregnancy and may be associated with virus transmission from mother to foetus/newborn.

Since the incidence of this sexually transmitted infection continues to rise and because the greatest incidence of herpes simplex virus infections occur in women of reproductive age, the risk of maternal transmission of the virus to the foetus or neonate has become a major health concern.

On these purposes the Authors of this review looked for the medical literature and pertinent publications to define the status of art regarding the epidemiology, the diagnosis, the therapy and the prevention of HSV in pregnant women and neonate. Special emphasis is placed upon the importance of genital herpes simplex virus infection in pregnancy and on the its prevention to avoid neonatal HSV infections.