bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Connexin mimetic peptides improve cell migration rates of human epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts in vitro
Authors: Wright Catherine S. , Van Steensel Maurice A. M. , Hodgins Malcolm B. , Martin Patricia E. M.
Published: March 2009

Nonhealing cutaneous wounds, a major cause of morbidity and mortality, are difficult to treat. Recent studies suggest that significant increases in skin wound‐healing rates occur by altering gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC). As migration of keratinocytes and fibroblasts is an important feature of wound healing, this study investigated whether migration rates in cultured normal human epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts could be altered by modulating GJIC via connexin mimetic peptides. First, HeLa cells stably transfected with connexin43 (Cx43), Cx40, or Cx26 were used as a model to determine connexin specificity and the doses of connexin mimetic peptides required to attenuate GJIC. Gap26 and Gap26M inhibited GJIC dose dependently and were nonconnexin specific, whereas Gap27 was Cx43‐selective. Skin keratinocytes and fibroblasts expressed a variety of connexins, with Cx43 predominating. Cx43 protein expression was reduced at leading edges 3 hours after scraping confluent monolayers, resolving at 24 hours. Gap26M and Gap27 significantly increased migration rates across scrapes in keratinocytes and fibroblasts by blocking gap junction functionality. GJIC inhibition can thus directly influence keratinocyte and fibroblast migration. Furthermore, our results support the therapeutic potential of connexin mimetic peptides to aid wound closure, and provide a simple approach to screening new agents.
Microbial diversity in chronic open wounds
Authors: Frank Daniel N. , Wysocki Annette , Specht‐Glick Dee Dee , Rooney Alejandro , Feldman Robert A. , St. Amand Allison L. , Pace Norman R. , Trent Jonathan D.
Published: March 2009

Chronic wounds expose the dermal matrix and underlying tissue to a diversity of microbes from the body and surrounding environment. We determined the microbial diversity of 19 chronic wounds using both molecular methods (sequence analysis of rRNA genes) and routine clinical culturing methods using swab samples. We identified 93 phylotypes in 2,653 rRNA clone sequences and found that compared with other environments, the microbial diversity of chronic wounds is relatively well characterized, i.e., 95% of sequences have ≥97% identity with known human commensals. In total, 75% of sequences belonged to four well‐known wound‐associated phylotypes: Staphylococcus (25%), Corynebacterium (20%), Clostridiales (18%), and Pseudomonas (12%). Approximately 0.5% of sequences (seven phylotypes) belonged to potentially new species. Individual wound samples contained four to 22 phylotypes, but in all wounds only a few (one to three) phylotypes were dominant. In more than half the wound specimens, polymerase chain reaction and culturing methods gave different diversity and dominance information about the microbes present. This exploratory study suggests that combining molecular and culturing methods provides a more complete characterization of the microbial diversity of chronic wounds, and can thereby expand our understanding of how microbiology impacts chronic wound pathology and healing.
Sensation Seeking, Overconfidence, and Trading Activity
Authors: GRINBLATT MARK , KELOHARJU MATTI
Published: March 2009

This study analyzes the role that two psychological attributes—sensation seeking and overconfidence—play in the tendency of investors to trade stocks. Equity trading data from Finland are combined with data from investor tax filings, driving records, and mandatory psychological profiles. We use these data, obtained from a large population, to construct measures of overconfidence and sensation seeking tendencies. Controlling for a host of variables, including wealth, income, age, number of stocks owned, marital status, and occupation, we find that overconfident investors and those investors most prone to sensation seeking trade more frequently.
Equilibrium Portfolio Strategies in the Presence of Sentiment Risk and Excess Volatility
Authors: DUMAS BERNARD , KURSHEV ALEXANDER , UPPAL RAMAN
Published: March 2009

Our objective is to identify the trading strategy that would allow an investor to take advantage of “excessive” stock price volatility and “sentiment” fluctuations. We construct a general equilibrium “difference‐of‐opinion” model of sentiment in which there are two classes of agents, one of which is overconfident about a public signal, while still optimizing intertemporally. Overconfident investors overreact to the signal and introduce an additional risk factor causing stock prices to be excessively volatile. Consequently, rational investors choose a conservative portfolio; moreover, this portfolio depends not just on the current price divergence but also on their prediction about future sentiment and the speed of price convergence.
Risk in Dynamic Arbitrage: The Price Effects of Convergence Trading
Authors: KONDOR PÉTER
Published: March 2009

I develop an equilibrium model of convergence trading and its impact on asset prices. Arbitrageurs optimally decide how to allocate their limited capital over time. Their activity reduces price discrepancies, but their activity also generates losses with positive probability, even if the trading opportunity is fundamentally riskless. Moreover, prices of identical assets can diverge even if the constraints faced by arbitrageurs are not binding. Occasionally, total losses are large, making arbitrageurs' returns negatively skewed, consistent with the empirical evidence. The model also predicts comovement of arbitrageurs' expected returns and market liquidity.
Catastrophic Risk and Credit Markets
Authors: GARMAISE MARK J. , MOSKOWITZ TOBIAS J.
Published: March 2009

We provide a model of the effects of catastrophic risk on real estate financing and prices and demonstrate that insurance market imperfections can restrict the supply of credit for catastrophe‐susceptible properties. Using unique micro‐level data, we find that earthquake risk decreased commercial real estate bank loan provision by 22% in California properties in the 1990s, with more severe effects in African–American neighborhoods. We show that the 1994 Northridge earthquake had only a short‐term disruptive effect. Our basic findings are confirmed for hurricane risk, and our model and empirical work have implications for terrorism and political perils.
What Drives the Disposition Effect? An Analysis of a Long‐Standing Preference‐Based Explanation
Authors: BARBERIS NICHOLAS , XIONG WEI
Published: March 2009

We investigate whether prospect theory preferences can predict a disposition effect. We consider two implementations of prospect theory: in one case, preferences are defined over annual gains and losses; in the other, they are defined over realized gains and losses. Surprisingly, the annual gain/loss model often fails to predict a disposition effect. The realized gain/loss model, however, predicts a disposition effect more reliably. Utility from realized gains and losses may therefore be a useful way of thinking about certain aspects of individual investor trading.
Work Ethic, Employment Contracts, and Firm Value
Authors: IAN CARLIN BRUCE , GERVAIS SIMON
Published: March 2009

We analyze how the work ethic of managers impacts a firm's employment contracts, riskiness, growth potential, and organizational structure. Flat contracts are optimal for diligent managers because they reduce risk‐sharing costs, but they attract egoistic agents who shirk and unskilled agents who add no value. Stable, bureaucratic firms with low growth potential are more likely to gain value from managerial diligence. Firms that hire from a virtuous pool of agents are more conservative in their investments and have a horizontal corporate structure. Our theory also yields several testable implications that distinguish it from standard agency models.
Creditor Rights, Enforcement, and Bank Loans
Authors: BAE KEE‐HONG , GOYAL VIDHAN K.
Published: March 2009

We examine whether differences in legal protection affect the size, maturity, and interest rate spread on loans to borrowers in 48 countries. Results show that banks respond to poor enforceability of contracts by reducing loan amounts, shortening loan maturities, and increasing loan spreads. These effects are both statistically significant and economically large. While stronger creditor rights reduce spreads, they do not seem to matter for loan size and maturity. Overall, we show that variation in enforceability of contracts matters a great deal more to how loans are structured and how they are priced.
Financial Constraints, Debt Capacity, and the Cross‐section of Stock Returns
Authors: HAHN JAEHOON , LEE HANGYONG
Published: March 2009

Building on a model of corporate investment under collateral constraints, we develop and test a hypothesis on the differential effect of debt capacity on stock returns across financially constrained and unconstrained firms. Consistent with the hypothesis, we find that debt capacity is a significant determinant of stock returns only in the cross‐section of financially constrained firms, after controlling for beta, size, book‐to‐market, leverage, and momentum. The findings suggest that cross‐sectional differences in corporate investment behavior arising from financial constraints, predicted by theories of imperfect capital markets and supported by empirical evidence, are reflected in the stock returns of manufacturing firms.
Mutations in Conserved Amino Acids in the KCNQ1 Channel and Risk of Cardiac Events in Type‐1 Long‐QT Syndrome
Authors: JONS CHRISTIAN , MOSS ARTHUR J. , LOPES COELI M. , MCNITT SCOTT , ZAREBA WOJCIECH , GOLDENBERG ILAN , QI MING , WILDE ARTHUR A. M. , SHIMIZU WATARU , KANTERS JORGEN K. , TOWBIN JEFFREY A. , ACKERMAN MICHAEL J. , ROBINSON JENNIFER L.
Published: March 2009

Background: Type‐1 long‐QT syndrome (LQT1) is caused by mutations in the KCNQ1 gene. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether KCNQ1 mutations in highly conserved amino acid residues within the voltage‐gated potassium channel family are associated with an increased risk of cardiac events.

Methods and Results: The study population involved 492 LQT1 patients with 54 missense mutations in the transmembrane region of the KCNQ1 channel. The amino acid sequences of the transmembrane region of 38 human voltage‐gated potassium channels were aligned. An adjusted Shannon entropy score for each amino acid residue was calculated ranging from 0 (no conservation) to 1.0 (full conservation). Cox analysis was used to identify independent factors associated with the first cardiac event (syncope, aborted cardiac arrest, or death). Patients were subcategorized into tertiles by their adjusted Shannon entropy scores. The lowest tertile (score 0–0.469; n = 146) was used as a reference group; patients with intermediate tertile scores (0.470–0.665; n = 150) had no increased risk of cardiac events (HR = 1.19, P = 0.42) or aborted cardiac arrest/sudden cardiac death (HR = 1.58, P = 0.26), and those with the highest tertile scores (>0.665; n = 196) showed significantly increased risk of cardiac events (HR = 3.32, P <0.001) and aborted cardiac arrest/sudden cardiac death (HR = 2.62, P = 0.04). The increased risk in patients with the highest conservation scores was independent of QTc, gender, age, and beta‐blocker therapy.

Conclusions: Mutations in highly conserved amino acid residues in the KCNQ1 gene are associated with a significant risk of cardiac events independent of QTc, gender, and beta‐blocker therapy.
Using the 12‐Lead ECG to Localize the Origin of Ventricular and Atrial Tachycardias: Part 1. Focal Atrial Tachycardia
Authors: TEH ANDREW W. , KISTLER PETER M. , KALMAN JONATHAN M.
Published: March 2009

Focal atrial tachycardia is an unusual form of supraventricular tachycardia arising from defined anatomic locations and sites within the atria. Although recent advances in mapping technology have facilitated successful ablation, the surface ECG remains an important aid in localizing the focus. This review discusses the use of P‐wave morphology on surface ECG to localize the site of focal atrial tachycardia.
N‐Acetylcysteine Added to Volume Expansion with Sodium Bicarbonate Does Not Further Prevent Contrast‐Induced Nephropathy: Results from the Cardiac Angiography in Renally Impaired Patients Study
Authors: STANILOAE CEZAR S. , DOUCET SERGE , SHARMA SAMIN K. , KATHOLI RICHARD E. , MODY KANIKA R. , COPPOLA JOHN T. , SOLOMON RICHARD
Published: March 2009

We reviewed data from the multicenter CARE (Cardiac Angiography in Renally Impaired Patients) study to see if benefit could be shown for N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) in patients undergoing cardiac angiography who all received intravenous bicarbonate fluid expansion. Four hundred fourteen patients with moderate‐to‐severe chronic kidney disease were randomized to receive intra‐arterial administration of iopamidol‐370 or iodixanol‐320. All patients were prehydrated with isotonic sodium bicarbonate solution. Each site chose whether or not to administer NAC 1,200 mg twice daily to all patients. Serum creatinine (SCr) levels and estimated glomerular filtration rate were assessed at baseline and 2–5 days after receiving contrast. The primary outcome was a postdose SCr increase 0.5 mg/dL (44.2 μmol/L) over baseline. Secondary outcomes were a postdose SCr increase 25% and the mean peak change in SCr. The NAC group received significantly less hydration (892 ± 236 mL vs. 1016 ± 328 mL; P < 0.001) and more contrast volume (146 ± 74 mL vs. 127 ± 71 mL; P = 0.009) compared with no‐NAC group. SCr increases 0.5 mg/dL occurred in 4.2% (7 of 168 patients) in NAC group and 6.5% (16 of 246 patients) in no‐NAC group (P = 0.38); rates of SCr increases 25% were 11.9% and 10.6%, respectively (P = 0.75); mean post‐SCr increases were 0.07 mg/dL in NAC group versus 0.11 mg/dL in no‐NAC group (P = 0.14). In conclusion, addition of NAC to fluid expansion with sodium bicarbonate failed to reduce the rate of contrast‐induced nephropathy (CIN) after the intra‐arterial administration of iopamidol or iodixanol to high‐risk patients with chronic kidney disease.
Grips and Ties:
Authors: Honkasalo Marja‐Liisa
Published: March 2009

In medical anthropological research, the question of suffering has been a topic of salient interest mostly from two theoretical viewpoints: those of endurance and of agency. The concept “suffering” derives its origins from two etymological roots, those of suffering–souffrance–sofferanza and of misery–misère–miseria. According to the first approach, that of “endurance” and founded largely on Judeo–Christian theology, suffering is regarded as an existential experience at the borders of human meaning making. The question then is: how to endure, how to suffer? The latter view, that of “agency,” follows the Enlightenment, and later the Marxist view on mundane suffering, misery, and the modern question of how to avoid or diminish it. This article follows the lines of the second approach, but my aim is also to try to build a theoretical bridge between the two. I ask whether agency would be understood as a culturally shared and interpreted modes of enduring, and if so, which conceptual definition of agency applies in this context? I theorize the relationship between suffering and agency using Ernesto de Martino's notion la crisi della presenza. In line with Pierre Bourdieu, I think that in people's lives, there may be sufferings in a plural form, as a variety of sufferings. The article is based on a one‐year long fieldwork in Finnish North Karelia.
Strength‐Processing Defects Relationship Based on Micrographic Analysis and Fracture Mechanics in Alumina Ceramics
Authors: Nakamura Satoshi , Tanaka Satoshi , Kato Zenji , Uematsu Keizo
Published: March 2009

Characterization of processing defects in structural ceramics is very important for the investigation of mechanical property, because processing defects are origin of fracture and govern the strength of products. The relationship between defects and strength is represented by simple equation which contains factor of defect size. In this study, size of defects in alumina ceramics was measured by optical microscopy with sintered body thinned to about 150 μm. The size distribution was used for strength calculation based on linear fracture mechanics. Average and Weibull modulus of calculated strength were very agreed with experimentally measured them. The result shows that defects in sintered body govern the strength and are quantitatively related to strength by fracture mechanics.
The Use of Radio‐Frequency Identification Tags for Labeling Dentures—Scanning Properties
Authors: Richmond Raymond , Pretty Iain A.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The inclusion of radio‐frequency identification (RFID)‐tags within dental prostheses has been suggested as means of effectively labeling such devices and permitting rapid and reliable identification of the wearer. Previous studies have suggested that patients will accept denture labeling and recognize the need for such systems. However, they demand systems that are aesthetic, durable, and secure. One concern over the use of RFID‐tags is that they could be scanned by third parties without the patient’s knowledge. This study categorizes the scanning patterns of RFID‐tags both in vitro and in vivo to provide data for patients for the consent process and for forensic dentists to ensure that they are scanning prostheses optimally. The results demonstrate that the RFID chips can only be read when the interrogator is in close proximity to the denture and thus should alleviate any concerns over privacy issues. However, evidence obtained from both the literature and experiments suggests that authorities must agree upon a unified standard for chip and reader specifications and protocols in order to avoid cases in which RFID‐tags may fail to be read by an incompatible reader.
Cellular/intramuscular myxoma and grade I myxofibrosarcoma are characterized by distinct genetic alterations and specific composition of their extracellular matrix
Authors: Willems Stefan M. , Mohseny Alex B. , Balog Crina , Sewrajsing Raj , Briaire‐de Bruijn Inge H. , Knijnenburg Jeroen , Cleton‐Jansen Anne‐Marie , Sciot Raf , Fletcher Christopher D. M. , Deelder André M. , Szuhai Karoly , Hensbergen Paul J. , Hogendoorn Pancras C. W.
Published: March 2009

Cellular myxoma and grade I myxofibrosarcoma are mesenchymal tumours that are characterized by their abundant myxoid extracellular matrix (ECM). Despite their histological overlap, they differ clinically. Diagnosis is therefore difficult though important. We investigated their (cyto) genetics and ECM. GNAS1‐activating mutations have been described in intramuscular myxoma, and lead to downstream activation of cFos. KRAS and TP53 mutations are commonly involved in sarcomagenesis whereby KRAS subsequently activates c‐Fos. A well‐documented series of intramuscular myxoma (three typical cases and seven cases of the more challenging cellular variant) and grade I myxofibrosarcoma (n= 10) cases were karyotyped, analyzed for GNAS1, KRAS and TP53 mutations and downstream activation of c‐Fos mRNA and protein expression. ECM was studied by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry and expression of proteins identified was validated by immunohistochemistry and qPCR. Grade I myxofibrosarcoma showed variable, non‐specific cyto‐genetic aberrations in 83,5% of cases (n= 6) whereas karyotypes of intramuscular myxoma were all normal (n= 7). GNAS1‐activating mutations were exclusively found in 50% of intramuscular myxoma. Both tumour types showed over‐expression of c‐Fos mRNA and protein. No mutations in KRAS codon 12/13 or in TP53 were detected. Liquid chromatography mass spectrometry revealed structural proteins (collagen types I, VI, XII, XIV and decorin) in grade I myxofibrosarcoma lacking in intramuscular myxoma. This was confirmed by immunohistochemistry and qPCR. Intramuscular/cellular myxoma and grade I myxofibrosarcoma show different molecular genetic aberrations and different composition of their ECM that probably contribute to their diverse clinical behaviour. GNAS1 mutation analysis can be helpful to distinguish intramuscular myxoma from grade I myxofibrosarcoma in selected cases.
Desmoplastic cellular neurothekeoma: Clinicopathological analysis of twelve cases
Authors: Zedek Daniel C. , White Wain L. , McCalmont Timothy H.
Published: March 2009

Background: Cellular neurothekeoma is a benign lesion most commonly found on the face and upper extremities in the first two decades of life.

Methods: Retrospective clinicopathologic review of 12 examples of cellular neurothekeoma typified by prominent stromal sclerosis, a distinctive variant that we refer to as desmoplastic cellular neurothekeoma.

Results: The mean age was 30 years (range, 3–55 years, 3 males, 9 females). The site was the head and neck in 3 cases, upper extremity in 4, lower extremity in 2, and trunk/abdomen in 3. All cases showed fascicles of slightly spindled and polygonal cells arrayed haphazardly in a prominent sclerotic background in the dermis and superficial subcutis. The cells displayed pale cytoplasm with indistinct membranes and vesicular nuclei with a single nucleolus. Lesional cells expressed NKI/C3, laminin, CD68, and CD10 and lacked expression of S‐100 protein, EMA, and CD34. Clinical follow up was available on 10 cases with a mean duration of 24 months (range, 11–42 months) with no local recurrences or metastases.

Conclusions: The immunohistochemical staining pattern, clinical findings, and benign nature are similar to “conventional” cellular neurothekeomas. The differential diagnosis includes desmoplastic melanocytic lesions, desmoplastic spindle cell carcinoma, dermatofibroma, “immature” scar, plexiform fibrohistiocytic tumor, perineurioma, and piloleiomyoma.
Dynamic distribution modelling: predicting the present from the past
Authors: Willis Stephen G. , Thomas Chris D. , Hill Jane K. , Collingham Yvonne C. , Telfer Mark G. , Fox Richard , Huntley Brian
Published: March 2009

Confidence in projections of the future distributions of species requires demonstration that recently‐observed changes could have been predicted adequately. Here we use a dynamic model framework to demonstrate that recently‐observed changes at the expanding northern boundaries of three British butterfly species can be predicted with good accuracy. Previous work established that the distributions of the study species currently lag behind climate change, and so we presumed that climate is not currently a major constraint at the northern range margins of our study species. We predicted 1970–2000 distribution changes using a colonisation model, MIGRATE, superimposed on a high‐resolution map of habitat availability. Thirty‐year rates and patterns of distribution change could be accurately predicted for each species (κ goodness‐of‐fit of models >0.64 for all three species, corresponding to >83% of grid cells correctly assigned), using a combination of individual species traits, species‐specific habitat associations and distance‐dependent dispersal. Sensitivity analyses showed that population productivity was the most important determinant of the rate of distribution expansion (variation in dispersal rate was not studied because the species are thought to be similar in dispersal capacity), and that each species’ distribution prior to expansion was critical in determining the spatial pattern of the current distribution. In future, modelling approaches that combine climate suitability and spatially‐explicit population models, incorporating demographic variables and habitat availability, are likely to be valuable tools in projecting species’ responses to climatic change and hence in anticipating management to facilitate species’ dispersal and persistence.
Germline variation of the melanocortin‐1 receptor does not explain shared risk for melanoma and thyroid cancer
Authors: Bauer Jürgen , Weng Julie , Kebebew Electron , Soares Paula , Trovisco Vitor , Bastian Boris C.
Published: March 2009

Background:  Recently, germline variants of the melanocortin‐1 receptor (MC1R) have been shown to be associated with an increased risk for BRAF mutant but not BRAF wild‐type cutaneous melanoma. Similar to melanoma, BRAF mutations are also commonly found in papillary thyroid carcinomas. Furthermore, patients with melanoma have an increased risk for thyroid carcinoma and vice versa.

Methods:  To determine whether MC1R variation also represents a risk factor for BRAF mutant thyroid carcinomas, we sequenced BRAF and MC1R in two separate case–control cohorts.

Results:  We demonstrate that MC1R is expressed in normal and neoplastic thyroid epithelial cells, albeit at lower levels than in melanocytes. In the first cohort of 66 follicular and 62 papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC), and 128 matched controls from the San Francisco Bay Area we found no association between the number of MC1R variant alleles and thyroid cancer. Patients with BRAF‐mutated tumors had a higher frequency of MC1R variant alleles than their matched controls (P = 0.039). However, contrary to the findings in melanoma, the odds ratio for having a BRAF mutant cancer decreased from 3.9 for carriers of one MC1R allele to 1.5 for carriers of two or more alleles. As the frequency of MC1R alleles varies highly among different ethnic populations, we analysed a second, ethnically more homogeneous cohort from Spain and Portugal, and found no association with PTC nor with BRAF‐mutated PTC.

Conclusion:  Our data indicate that the strong association between BRAF mutations and MC1R variants previously found in melanoma does not extend to thyroid cancer.
An in vitro three‐dimensional model of primary human cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Commandeur Suzan , De Gruijl Frank R. , Willemze Rein , Tensen Cornelis P. , El Ghalbzouri Abdoelwaheb
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) represent a substantial clinical problem because of increases, frequent recurrences and successive de novo tumors, especially in organ transplant recipients. To improve upon the current surgical and other non‐selective therapies, a validated organotypic in vitro model of primary human SCC needs to be developed. Such a model will have obvious advantages over current cell line and animal based approaches, and may render the latter partly obsolete. In a first approach, an explant technique of primary SCC biopsies onto dermal constructs was used to emulate tumor expansion in an in vitro model. Histological analysis revealed the formation of nests of squamous cells, mimicking an invasive morphological feature of primary SCC. Immunohistochemical analysis comprised an array of markers characteristic of keratinocyte (hyper) proliferation (K6, K16, K17 and Ki67), differentiation (K1, K10 and involucrin), basement membrane (collagen types IV and VII, integrins α6 and β4 and laminin 332) and SCC (K4, K13 and Axl). The generated human SCC models displayed disturbed differentiation and keratins associated with hyperproliferation, but a low frequency of Ki67 positive cells. Basement membrane composition of the in vitro SCC model resembled that of normal skin. These results show for the first time that in vitro modelling of three‐dimensional growth of primary cutaneous human SCC is feasible. This model may provide a platform to develop refined preventive and curative treatments and thereby gain understanding of SCC pathogenesis.
Mast cells: novel clinical perspectives from recent insights
Authors: Kneilling Manfred , Röcken Martin
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Mast cells are still generally viewed as mediators of type I allergic or pseudoallergic reactions. Research over the past 10 years revealed that our view was too small and that mast cells are of key importance in innate immunity and also types II, III and IV adaptive immune reactions. Understanding their role in modulating and amplifying of inflammatory responses provides important insights into the pathogenesis of skin diseases such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, bullous pemphigoid or the control of infections. This helps us to understand the course of these diseases, their trigger mechanisms, and, the new role of agents, which can modulate the function of mast cells. These insights will help to develop new therapeutic approaches.
Extracts from Glycine max (soybean) induce elastin synthesis and inhibit elastase activity
Authors: Zhao Renbin , Bruning Elizabeth , Rossetti Dianne , Starcher Barry , Seiberg Miri , Iotsova‐Stone Violetta
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Elastic fibres are essential extracellular matrix components of the skin, contributing to its resilience and elasticity. In the course of skin ageing, elastin synthesis is reduced, and elastase activity is accelerated, resulting in skin sagging and reduced skin elasticity. Our studies show that non‐denatured Glycine max (soybean) extracts induced elastin promoter activity, inhibited elastase activity and protected elastic fibres from degradation by exogenous elastases in vitro. Mouse and swine skins topically treated with soybean extracts showed enhanced elastic fibre network and increased desmosine content. Elastin expression was also augmented in human skin transplanted onto SCID mice in response to soy treatment. These data suggest that non‐denatured soybean extracts may be used as skin care agents to reduce the signs of skin ageing.
Effects of oestrogen agonists on human dermal fibroblasts in an in vitro wounding assay
Authors: Stevenson Susan , Sharpe David T. , Julie Thornton M.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  Oestrogen and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) improve wound healing, but circulating levels decline significantly with age. Recently, the selective oestrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) tamoxifen and raloxifene have been shown to improve age‐associated impaired wound healing. Therefore, we have evaluated the effects of 17β‐oestradiol, ERα and ERβ agonists, tamoxifen, raloxifene and DHEA on human dermal fibroblasts using an in vitro wound assay. An ERα agonist, 17β‐oestradiol and DHEA all significantly accelerated cell migration; the DHEA effect was blocked with an aromatase inhibitor. Tamoxifen, raloxifene and DHEA all significantly increased DNA synthesis; the DHEA stimulatory effect was reversed by an aromatase inhibitor. This study demonstrates that 17β‐oestradiol, an ERα agonist, tamoxifen, raloxifene and DHEA (following conversion to oestrogen) all have significant effects on human fibroblasts, the key mesenchymal cell involved in the wound healing process. Further understanding of the mechanisms involved may have important implications for the management of age‐related impaired wound healing.
Seasonal use distributions and migrations of blue sucker in the Middle Missouri River
Authors: Neely B. C. , Pegg M. A. , Mestl G. E.
Published: March 2009

Abstract –  Blue suckers, Cycleptus elongatus, are a highly mobile species speculated to have spring spawning migrations. However, previous studies have not quantified seasonal migrations of blue suckers. Use distributions were calculated at 90% and 50% for three seasons to identify geographic space‐use requirements of blue suckers. Mean 90% use distributions (±SE) varied from 8.1 km (±5.3 km) in summer to 78.6 km (±9.9 km) in fall to 174.9 km (±13.1 km) in spring. The great space‐use requirements of blue suckers in fall and spring indicate that the species makes substantial upstream migrations in fall and also preceding spawning in spring, then return to a core area postspawning. The broad geographical range occupied by blue suckers throughout their life‐history cycle emphasises the need for interjurisdictional management of the species and highlights potential detrimental effects of blocking fish passage.
LRP5 sequence and polymorphisms in the baboon
Authors: Doubleday Alison F. , Kaestle Frederika A. , Cox Laura A. , Birnbaum Shifra , Mahaney Michael C. , Havill Lorena M.
Published: March 2009

Background  LRP5 is known to have an important relationship with bone density and a variety of other biological processes. Mapping to human chromosome 11q13.2, LRP5 shows considerable evolutionary conservation. Orthologs of this gene exist in many species, although comparison of human LRP5 with other non‐human primates has not been performed until now.

Methods  We reported the complementary DNA (cDNA) sequence and deduced amino acid sequence for baboon LRP5, and compared the baboon and human sequences. cDNA sequences for 21 baboons were examined to identify single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Results  Sequences of coding regions in human and baboon LRP5 showed 97– 99% homology. Twenty‐five SNPs were identified in the coding region of baboon LRP5.

Conclusion  The observed degree of coding sequence homology in LRP5 led us to expect that the baboon may serve as a useful model for future research into the role(s) of this gene in primate metabolic diseases.
Molecular cloning and characterization of Taiwan macaque lactoferrin
Authors: Chang Jui‐Hsien , Chen Chao‐Chung , Chao Ming‐Chieh , Chuang Yin‐Ching , Chang Ming‐Chung
Published: March 2009

Background  Lactoferrin (LF) is an iron‐binding glycoprotein that plays an important role in combating a wide range of pathogens and contributes innate protective defenses of mammals.

Methods  We cloned and sequenced the full‐length cDNA for LF from Taiwan macaque. The antimicrobial activity and iron‐binding ability of the purified recombinant macaque LF (rmLF) were determined and compared with those of human LF (hLF).

Results and conclusions  The complete mLF cDNA (GenBank: EU523857) encoded a 710‐aa precursor with a 19‐aa signal peptide. The nucleotide sequence of mLF showed the highest identity to the rhesus monkey LF (98%), whereas the putative amino acid sequence of mLF showed the highest identity to the hLF (90%). The rmLF and natural hLF showed almost equivalent antibacterial activities against Klebsiella pneumoniae and mLF presented a slightly lower activity against Listeria monocytogenes than natural hLF. In addition, the patterns of iron release from mLF and hLF were nearly identical.
Neoplasia in the chimpanzee (Panspp.)
Authors: Brown S.L. , Anderson D.C. , Dick Jr E.J. , Guardado‐Mendoza R. , Garcia A.P. , Hubbard G.B.
Published: March 2009

Background Chimpanzees have over 98% genomic sequence homology with humans and may have a similar host response to malignancy. There is minimal information concerning cancer in the chimpanzee and such information would be valuable to individuals caring for and using them for research.

Methods Spontaneous neoplasia that was documented in two chimpanzee colonies and in the literature were evaluated statistically.

Results In all, 105 spontaneous and 12 experimental neoplasms were diagnosed. Seventy‐four spontaneous tumors occurred in females, 24 in males, and seven in animals of undetermined sex. Of the spontaneous tumors 89 were benign, 14 were malignant, and two were undetermined. Neoplasia was most common in the urogenital system in females.

Conclusions Neoplasia is not uncommon in the chimpanzee, is generally benign, and occurs primarily in the urogenital system in females.
Successful ageing by whose definition? Views of older, spiritually affiliated women
Authors: McCann Mortimer Patricia , Ward Lynn , Winefield Helen
Published: March 2009

Objectives:  Researchers have pointed to significant omissions in Rowe and Kahn's model of successful ageing and their lack of consultation with older people. This study examined late mid‐life and older women's views of successful ageing.

Methods:  In‐depth interviews were conducted with 14 women aged 60–89 years. Participants who identified themselves as spiritual and religious, or spiritual only and not religious, were recruited using the ‘snowball technique’. Thematic analyses were conducted within an Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis framework.

Results:  Participants described multiple dimensions of successful ageing with 15 subthemes grouped into three overarching categories of personal agency, social value and quality of life/quality of death.

Conclusions:  Participants’ multidimensional views of successful ageing were broader than Rowe and Kahn's model and included the need to have a degree of autonomy over the place and manner of the last phase of life and final days (successful dying).
Comprehensive geriatric assessment ‘online’
Authors: Gray Len , Wootton Richard
Published: March 2009

This paper describes a system designed to enable comprehensive geriatric assessment to be performed at distant locations. A structured assessment incorporating the interRAI Acute Care assessment tool is administered by a specifically trained nurse assessor onsite. Data are entered and processed by web‐based software that incorporates a clinical decision support system. It enables a geriatrician to review and report the assessment online. The assessment and report can be viewed by authorised clinicians inside and outside the hospital via the Internet. The system can also be used to support in person geriatric consultation and whole of episode ward‐based geriatric care. Preliminary evaluation suggests the system to be reliable, safe, efficient and appealing to clinicians.
Reactions to ageing among Australian psychologists
Authors: Koder Deborah‐Anne , Helmes Edward
Published: March 2009

Objective: To assess attitudes towards personal ageing among Australian psychologists.

Methods: Six hundred and four practising psychologists were surveyed using the Reactions to Ageing Questionnaire (RAQ). Potential predictors of attitudes to ageing, such as age, gender and number of years in clinical practice were examined, together with the amount and quality of contact with older family members and older friends. Measures related to the training of psychologists were also of interest.

Results: The strongest significant predictors of attitudes to ageing were respondents’ age and positive attitudes towards conducting therapy with older clients. Contact and training variables were not associated with scores on the RAQ.

Conclusion: These results highlight age as a contributing factor in attitude formation.
‘I went in feeling like a student and came out feeling like a researcher’ An evaluation of the first Australian Masterclass for Emerging Researchers in Ageing
Authors: Bartlett Helen , Peach Linda C
Published: March 2009

Objective: To assess how well the 2008 Masterclass for Emerging Researchers in Ageing (ERA) increased capacity for building careers in ageing research in Australia.

Methods: Twenty‐six delegates rated 13 career‐development activities for (i) the importance of each to their future careers and (ii) their perceived competence in each, before and after the Masterclass. Further qualitative feedback was collected at programme conclusion.

Results: Publishing research and working on large‐scale, collaborative research projects were rated significantly more important after the Masterclass. Delegates’ competence in 11 of the 13 activities increased significantly, as did averaged overall competence. Qualitative data analysis indicated the Masterclass was particularly valued for networking opportunities and for providing access to senior people in the field.

Conclusions: This inaugural ERA Masterclass assisted emerging researchers in ageing to develop capacity in career development activities. These outcomes have important implications for building research capacity in ageing in Australia.
WILLIAM H. REHNQUIST AWARD FOR JUDICIAL EXCELLENCE ADDRESS
Authors: Lippman Hon. Jonathan
Published: March 2009

The William H. Rehnquist Award is one of the most celebrated judicial honors in the country. It is given each year to a state court judge who demonstrates the “highest level of judicial excellence, integrity, fairness, and professional ethics.” The 2008 recipient, Jonathan Lippman, was recently appointed and confirmed as Chief Judge of the State of New York. Chief Judge Lippman was previously the Presiding Justice of the Appellate Division of the First Judicial Department of the New York State Supreme Court. He was appointed New York's Chief Administrative Judge by Chief Judge Judith S. Kaye and served from January 1996 to May 2007 and was responsible for the operation of a court system with a $2.4 billion budget, 1300 state‐paid judges, 2300 town and village judges, and 16,000 nonjudicial personnel. Among his numerous professional activities, Chief Judge Lippman served as president of the Conference of State Court Administrators from 2005 to 2006 and was the vice‐chair of the National Center for State Courts from 2005 to 2006, where he was a member of the Board of Directors from 2003 to 2007. During his tenure, Chief Judge Lippman has been the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions, including the 2006 Fund For Modern Courts Cyrus R. Vance Tribute for Vision, Integrity and Dedication to the Fair Administration of Justice Personified by Cyrus R. Vance (November 27, 2006); the New York County Lawyers’ Association Conspicuous Service Award in Recognition of Many Years of Outstanding Public Service (September 28, 2006); and the Award for Excellence in Public Service of the New York State Bar Association's Committee on Attorneys in Public Service (January 24, 2006). Chief Judge Lippman received a Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Relations from New York University, Washington Square College, where he graduated cum laude in 1965. He also received his J.D. from New York University in 1968. Below is the speech he delivered after accepting the William H. Rehnquist Award from U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice John G. Roberts.
THE BEST SEAT IN THE HOUSE: THE COURT ASSIGNMENT AND JUDICIAL SATISFACTION
Authors: Chase Deborah , Hora Hon. Peggy Fulton
Published: March 2009

A survey of 355 judges examined the differences in judicial satisfaction between those assigned to problem‐solving courts—such as drug treatment and unified family—and judges in other more traditional assignments such as family law and criminal courts. The unified family court systems, like drug treatment courts, have generally adopted the principles of therapeutic jurisprudence. Significant differences were found on each of the three survey scales: (1) helpfulness, (2) attitude toward litigants, and (3) positive effects of assignment. The judges who were in the problem‐solving courts (drug treatment and unified family court) scored higher on all three scales than those who were not (traditional family and criminal court). The group of problem‐solving court judges consistently scored higher than the other group of judges, with the drug treatment court judges scoring the highest. The group of traditional criminal court and family court judges scored less positively, with the criminal court judges having the lowest scores. The problem‐solving court judges were more likely to report believing that the role of the court should include helping litigants address the problems that brought them there and were more likely to observe positive changes in the litigants. They were also more likely to believe that litigants are motivated to change and are able to do so. They felt more respected by the litigants and were more likely to think that the litigants were grateful for help they received. The problem‐solving court judges were also more likely to report being happy in their assignments and to believe that these assignments have a positive emotional effect on them.
FROM ADDICTION TO ABSTINENCE: MAXIMIZING THE CHANCES OF SUCCESS
Authors: Stimmel Barry
Published: March 2009

While advances in neuroscience have clearly delineated the areas of the brain that are affected by mood‐altering drugs, the success rate of treatment for people dependent upon or addicted to these drugs remains essentially unchanged over the last several decades. This is due in large part to paying inadequate attention to the craving that occurs after discontinuing a mood‐altering drug that produces physical dependency. This article will review the changes that occur when one becomes physically dependent on a mood‐altering drug and the process to follow in order to maximize the chances of success in maintaining abstinence when drug use has been discontinued.
Problems with kinematic mean field electrodynamics at high magnetic Reynolds numbers
Authors: Cattaneo F. , Hughes D. W.
Published: March 2009

We discuss the applicability of the kinematic α-effect formalism at high magnetic Reynolds numbers. In this regime, the underlying flow is likely to be a small-scale dynamo, leading to the exponential growth of fluctuations. Difficulties arise with both the actual calculation of the α coefficients and their interpretation. We argue that although the former may be circumvented – and we outline several procedures by which the α coefficients can be computed in principle – the interpretation of these quantities in terms of the evolution of the large-scale field may be fundamentally flawed.
Preputial urinary diversion to treat urine soaking during urination in a dog
Authors: Thomas E. K. , Friend E. J. , Taylor A. S. , Hamilton M. H.
Published: March 2009

A young dog was presented with a history of adopting an unusual posture to urinate, resulting in urine soaking of the ventral abdomen and caudal forelimbs. The dog was initially treated surgically with cranial advancement of the prepuce, which did not resolve the problem. Further surgery was then successfully carried out to create a more caudal preputial orifice, which angled the penis ventrally when extruded, directing urine away from the body. At follow‐up clinical examination, the dog was clinically normal.
Seasonal distribution and species composition of daytime biting mosquitoes
Authors: AKRAM Waseem , HAFEEZ Faisal , ULLAH Unsar Naeem , KIM Yeon Kook , HUSSAIN Aftab , LEE Jong‐Jin
Published: March 2009

Adults and immatures ofAedesmosquito populations were collected at temperatures between 40 and 44°C (summer), while larvae were collected at 0°C (winter). Major mosquito activities were observed from February to mid‐December at various collection sites that yielded high populations ofAedesspp. from May to September, and high populations ofCulexspp. andAnophelesspp. from March to September. In June to July, mosquito activity was suspended because the relative humidity was high (70%); a result of the monsoon rains. In August, with temperature ranging from 38 to 42°C, the populations ofCulex,AnophelesandAedesbegan to increase (36.8, 32.1 and 26.3%, respectively). Population estimates (through standard prototype Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Biogents (BG)‐sentinel) and species composition ofAedesin forest habitats indicated a rapid increase in the populations ofAe. albopictus(52.3%),Ae. aegypti(19.1%) andAe. vittatus(28.5%) following the rainy season in July. Areas positive forAe. albopictushad identical population levels and distribution ranges ofAe. vittatus, however, there were noAe. aegyptiinAe. albopictusareas from August to September. The population level, seasonal distribution, habitat and areas of adult activity marked by global positioning system (GPS) coordinates are being used for reference and for species composition data ofAnophelesspp. (2),Culexspp. (10) andAedesspp. (5) in addition to associated temperature, relative humidity and physico‐chemical factors of larval habitat. Global meteorological changes have caused an expansion of the active period, leading to the mosquito's possibility of being a vector of disease increasing, resulting in the spread of dengue fever.