bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolation and Characterization of a Defensin-Like Peptide (Coprisin) from the Dung Beetle,Copris tripartitus
Authors: Hwang Jae-Sam , Lee Juneyoung , Kim Yeon-Ju , Bang Hea-Son , Yun Eun-Young , Kim Seong-Ryul , Suh Hwa-Jin , Kang Bo-Ram , Nam Sung-Hee , Jeon Jae-Pil , Kim Iksoo , Lee Dong Gun
Published: October 2009

The antibacterial activity of immune-related peptides, identified by a differential gene expression analysis, was investigated to suggest novel antibacterial peptides. A cDNA encoding a defensin-like peptide, Coprisin, was isolated from bacteria-immunized dung beetle,Copris tripartitus, by using differential dot blot hybridization. Northern blot analysis showed that Coprisin mRNA was up-regulated from 4 hours after bacteria injection and its expression level was reached a peak at 16 hours. The deduced amino acid sequence of Coprisin was composed of 80 amino acids with a predicted molecular weight of 8.6 kDa and a pI of 8.7. The amino acid sequence of mature Coprisin was found to be 79.1% and 67.4% identical to those of defensin-like peptides ofAnomala cupreaandAllomyrina dichotoma, respectively. We also investigated active sequences of Coprisin by using amino acid modification. The result showed that the 9-mer peptide, LLCIALRKK-NH2, exhibited potent antibacterial activities againstEscherichia coliandStaphylococcus aureus.
Dynamic Stability of Cylindrical Shells under Moving Loads by Applying Advanced Controlling Techniques Part I—Using Periodic Stiffeners
Authors: Eldalil Khaled M. Saadeldin , Baz Amr M. S.
Published: October 2009

The load acting on a cylindrical shell, with added periodic stiffeners,
under a transient pressure pulse propelling a pullet (gun case) has been experimentally
studied. This study is based on two modes of velocities, the first is subcritical mode and
the second is supercritical mode. The stiffeners are added to the gun tube of an
experimental gun facility, of 14 mm bore diameter. The radial strains are measured by
using high‐frequency strain gage system in phase with a laser beam detection system.
Time‐resolved strain measurement of the wall response is obtained and both precursor
and transverse hoop strains have been resolved. The time domain analysis has been done
using “wavelet transform package” in order to determine the frequency domain
modes of vibrations and detect the critical frequency mode. A complete comparison
of the dynamic behavior of the shell tube before and after adding periodic stiffeners has
been done, which indicated that a significant damping effect reaches values between 61.5
and 38% for subcritical and critical modes. The critical frequency of the stiffened shell
is increased, so the supercritical mode is changed to subcritical mode. The amplification
and dispersion factors are determined and constructed; there is a reduction in the
corresponding speed frequencies by about 10%. Also the radial‐bending vibrations and
tube muzzle motions are detected at muzzle velocity ratio of 0.99%, the results indicated
that there is a significant improvement in increasing the number of rounds per second by
about 36% and increasing the pointing precision by about 47%.
Functional Characterization of N‐Terminally GFP‐Tagged GLP‐1 Receptor
Authors: Bavec Aljoša , Ličar Alenka
Published: October 2009

The glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor (GLP‐1 receptor) mediates important effects on peripheral tissues and the central nervous system. It seems one of the most promising therapeutic targets for treatment of diabetes mellitus type 2. Surprisingly, very little is known about the cellular mechanisms that regulate its function in vivo. One of the approaches to study receptor dynamics, expression, or signaling is using GFP‐tagged fluorescent proteins. In this study, we synthesized and characterized N‐terminally GFP‐tagged GLP‐1 (GFP‐GLP‐1) receptor in CHO cells. We demonstrated that GFP‐GLP‐1 receptor is weakly expressed in the plasma membranes and is functionally coupled to adenylyl cyclase via heterotrimeric G‐proteins, similarly as its wild type.
Linear Fractionally Damped Oscillator
Authors: Naber Mark
Published: October 2009

The linearly damped oscillator equation is considered with the damping term generalized to a Caputo fractional derivative. The order of the derivative being considered is 0 ≤ v ≤ 1. At the lower end (v = 0)
the equation represents an undamped oscillator and at the upper end (v = 1)
the ordinary linearly damped oscillator equation is recovered. A solution is found analytically, and a comparison with the ordinary linearly damped oscillator is made. It is found that there are nine distinct cases as opposed to the usual three for the ordinary equation (damped, over‐damped, and critically damped). For three of these cases it is shown that the frequency of oscillation actually increases with increasing damping order before eventually falling to the limiting value given by the ordinary damped oscillator equation. For the other six cases the behavior is as expected, the frequency of oscillation decreases with increasing order of the derivative (damping term).
Crossmodal Links between Vision and Touch in Spatial Attention: A Computational Modelling Study
Authors: Magosso Elisa , Serino Andrea , di Pellegrino Giuseppe , Ursino Mauro
Published: October 2009

Many studies have revealed that attention operates across different sensory modalities, to facilitate the selection of relevant information in the multimodal situations of every-day life. Cross-modal links have been observed either when attention is directed voluntarily (endogenous) or involuntarily (exogenous). The neural basis of cross-modal attention presents a significant challenge to cognitive neuroscience. Here, we used a neural network model to elucidate the neural correlates of visual-tactile interactions in exogenous and endogenous attention. The model includes two unimodal (visual and tactile) areas connected with a bimodal area in each hemisphere and a competition between the two hemispheres. The model is able to explain cross-modal facilitation both in exogenous and endogenous attention, ascribing it to an advantaged activation of the bimodal area on the attended side (via a top-down or bottom-up biasing), with concomitant inhibition towards the opposite side. The model suggests that a competitive/cooperative interaction with biased competition may mediate both forms of cross-modal attention.
Distribution of dipyridamole in blood components among post-stroke patients treated with extended release formulation
Authors: Sabaeva Elena , Booze Christopher , Atar Oliver D. , Eisert Christian , Hanley Dan , Serebruany Victor ,   for the Aggrenox® Compliance Task Force
Published: October 2009

Extended release dipyridamole (ERD) is widely used in patients after ischaemic stroke; however, the ability of this antithrombotic agent to be stored in different blood cells has never been explored in post-stroke patients. We hypothesised that since ERD is known to be highly lipophilic, the drug may be present not only in plasma, but also accumulated in platelets, leukocytes, and erythrocytes. Fifteen patients after documented ischaemic stroke were treated with Aggrenox (ERD and lowdose aspirin combination) BID for 30 days, and 12 of them completed the study. ERD concentrations in blood cells and platelet-poor plasma were measured by spectrofluorimetry at Baseline, Day 14, and Day 30 after the initiation of therapy. The background level of spectrofluorometry readings differs slightly among the blood components (132–211 ng/ml) due to the differences in the preparation of samples and cell isolation techniques. As expected, two weeks of ERD therapy produced steady-state plasma concentration of dipyridamole already at Day 14 (1,680 ±542 ng/ ml), followed by a slight not significant decrease at one month (1,619 ±408 ng/ml). Two weeks of therapy was sufficient to achieve a consistent dipyridamole accumulation in erythrocytes (361 ±43 ng/ml), but not in platelets (244 ±78 ng/ml), or leukocytes (275 ±49 ng/ml).In fact, white blood cells continued dipyridamole intake beyond 14 days period, and this increase (398 ± 66 ng/ml) was significant (p = 0.02) at 30 days. Treatment with ERD in post-stroke patients resulted not only in achievement of therapeutic plasma dipyridamole concentrations, but also deposition of the drug in erythrocytes and leukocytes, but not in platelets. If confirmed, these data will affect our better understanding of dipyridamole pleiotropy, and may explain long-term benefit of ERD formulation.
Verification of a High-Resolution Model Forecast Using Airborne Doppler Radar Analysis during the Rapid Intensification of Hurricane Guillermo
Authors: Zou X. , Wu Yonghui , Ray Peter Sawin
Published: October 2009

The NOAA Hurricane Research Division (HRD) P-3 aircraft provided airborne radar observations during the period of rapid intensification of Hurricane Guillermo on 2 August 1997. The inner core structure and evolution of Hurricane Guillermo (1997) over a 120 km by 120 km square area, centered on the storm, was observed by the P-3 aircraft during 10 flight legs at half-hour intervals during a 6-h period from 1800 UTC 2 August to 0000 UTC 3 August 1997. A high-resolution short-term model forecast initialized at 1800 UTC 2 August 1997 was made using the fifth-generation Pennsylvania State University–NCAR nonhydrostatic, two-way interactive, movable, triply nested grid Mesoscale Model (MM5). The weak vortex at the initial time in the NCEP analysis was replaced by a tropical storm–like vortex generated by a 4D variational data assimilation (4D-Var) vortex initialization experiment. The modeled Guillermo followed the observed track with less than a 12-km track error at any time during the 6-h forecast period. The modeled eye is smaller than the observed eye and the modeled vortex is more upright than shown by the radar analysis. The minimum pressure, maximum wind (intensity), and radial profile of tangential winds are close to the radar analysis after 2–3 h of model spinup. A spectral decomposition further reveals that (i) large differences between the model simulation and radar analysis of the asymmetric features are mostly caused by azimuthal phase errors; (ii) the wavenumber 1 component dominates the asymmetric features and remains stationary within the inner core region, as is also observed by airborne Doppler radar; and (iii) although being significantly different from radar analysis, the azimuthal phase of the wavenumber 1 component of modeled reflectivity does not vary greatly with time as the radar data suggest.
A Homogeneous Record (1896–2006) of Daily Weather and Climate at Mohonk Lake, New York*
Authors: Cook Benjamin I. , Cook Edward R. , Anchukaitis Kevin J. , Huth Paul C. , Thompson John E. , Smiley Shanan F.
Published: October 2009

Reliable, long-term records of daily weather and climate are relatively rare but are crucial for understanding long-term trends and variability in extreme events and other climate metrics that are not resolvable at the monthly time scale. Here, the distinct features of a continuous, long-term (1896–2006) daily weather record from Mohonk Lake, New York, are highlighted. The site is optimal for daily climate analyses, since it has experienced negligible land-use change, no station moves, and has maintained methodological and instrumental consistency over the entire period of record. Unlike many sites, the site has always used maximum/minimum thermometers rather than shifting to the automated Maximum/Minimum Temperature Sensor. Notable results from the analysis of this record include 1) a warming trend driven largely by trends in maximum temperatures, especially during summer, 2) increasing diurnal temperature range during summer, and 3) a reduction in the number of freeze-days per year with little change in the length of the freeze-free season. These findings deviate from some regional level trends, suggesting there may be value in revisiting selected, consistently monitored, and maintained stations similar to Mohonk for focused analyses of regional climate change.
Three-Body Scattering and Hail Size
Authors: Zrnic D. S. , Zhang G. , Melnikov V. , Andric J.
Published: October 2009

The three-body scattering signature is an appendage seen on weather radar displays of reflectivity behind strong storm cells. It is caused by multiple scattering between hydrometeors and the ground. The radar equation for this phenomenon is reexamined and corrected to include the coherent wave component producing 3 dB more power than previously reported. Furthermore, the possibility to gauge hail size causing this phenomenon is explored. A model of forward scattering by spherical hail and accepted values of ground backscattering cross sections are used in an attempt to reconcile the reflectivity in this signature with observations. This work demonstrates that the signature can be caused by small- (<10 mm) to moderate- (20 mm) sized hail. An effort to gauge hail size by comparing the direct return from hail with the three-body scattered return is made. The theory indicates fundamental ambiguities in size retrieval resulting from resonant effects. Although theory eliminates the number of hailstones per unit volume, the shape of hail size distribution and the cross section of ground contribute additional uncertainty to the retrieval.
An Exploratory Study of Reading in Urban and Suburban Middle Schools: Implications for At-Risk and Special Education Learners
Authors: Mariage Troy , Burgener Joyce , Wolbers Kim , Shankland Rebecca , Wasburn-Moses Leah , Dimling Lisa , Kosobud Kathleen , Peters Susan
Published: October 2009

Fifty years after Brown v. Board of Education, school achievement remains segregated by both race and class. Despite an emphasis on reading achievement as required by No Child Left Behind, many students have serious literacy needs, even into the middle and upper grades. The purpose of this study was to ascertain ways in which middle school reading instruction is coordinated to improve academic outcomes for at-risk students. In-depth interviews were conducted with professionals from five urban and five suburban middle schools surrounding five components of reading programming. While both align their curriculum with state expectations, they differ in terms of program continuity and stability. Overall, systemic coherence in schools was a rarity. Implications for literacy programming and systemic reform are presented.
Developing Quick Writing Skills of Middle School Students With Disabilities
Authors: Mason Linda H. , Kubina Richard M. , Taft Raol J.
Published: October 2009

Two multiple-baseline, across-participants design studies were used to examine persuasive quick write (10-minute writing responses) performance of seventh-grade students with disabilities. In the first study, 6 students were taught by a graduate research assistant; in the second study, 10 students were taught by their special education teacher. In both studies, students’ written responses were evaluated before, during, and after self-regulated strategy development instruction for the POW + TREE planning strategy (POW: pick my idea, organize my notes, write and say more; TREE: topic sentence, reasons—three or more, explain, ending). All study participants improved in the number of persuasive parts included and the quality of the written response immediately after and weeks following instruction.
Use of Dynamic Panel Cointegration Approach to Model International Arrivals to Australia
Authors: Seetaram Neelu
Published: October 2009

The aim of this article is to use dynamic panel data cointegration technique to determine elasticities of tourist arrivals to Australia, using income, real exchange rates, and airfares as demand determinants. Annual data from 1991 to 2007 for arrivals from the 10 main markets are used. Previous studies that applied dynamic panel data sets in the tourism context have used the Arellano—Bond estimation technique. Because this technique produces biased and inconsistent estimates in samples with a small time span, this article uses the corrected least square dummy variable technique to generate unbiased and efficient parameter estimates. The results obtained show that demand is inelastic with respect to its determinants in the short run and elastic in the long run. The main implications of these results are that maintaining destination price competitiveness and consumer satisfaction should be rated very high in the priorities of the Australian tourism industry.
Demographic Factors Associated With the Early Identification of Children With Special Needs
Authors: Guarino Cassandra M. , Buddin Richard , Pham Chung , Cho Michelle
Published: October 2009

Early and accurate identification of special needs, coupled with an appropriate course of treatment and educational plan, is important to academic progress, in particular for economically disadvantaged children with fewer family resources to catch up if they fall behind. A first step in improving mechanisms to promote early identification is to uncover factors influencing the timing of identification. This study investigates how early identification—defined as identification prior to kindergarten entry—varies by demographic characteristics. Using data from the California Department of Education, the authors find systematic differences in the timing of identification, even after adjusting for disability and other factors. Girls are less likely to be identified with special needs prior to kindergarten entry than boys. African Americans are less likely than children of other races to be identified early, despite disproportionately high overall identification rates. English learners are less likely than non-English learners to be identified early.
Treatment of Symptomatic Cartilage Defects of the Knee
Authors: Saris Daniel B. F. , Vanlauwe Johan , Victor Jan , Almqvist Karl Fredrik , Verdonk Rene , Bellemans Johan , Luyten Frank P.
Published: October 2009

Background

Damaged articular cartilage has limited capacity for self-repair. Autologous chondrocyte implantation using a characterized cell therapy product results in significantly better early structural repair as compared with microfracture in patients with symptomatic joint surface defects of the femoral condyles of the knee.

Purpose

To evaluate clinical outcome at 36 months after characterized chondrocyte implantation (CCI) versus microfracture (MF).

Study Design

Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods

Patients aged 18 to 50 years with single International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) grade III/IV symptomatic cartilage defects of the femoral condyles were randomized to CCI (n = 57) or MF (n = 61). Clinical outcome was measured over 36 months by the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS). Serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were scored using the Magnetic resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) system and 9 additional items. Gene expression profile scores associated with ectopic cartilage formation were determined by RT-PCR.

Results

Baseline mean overall KOOS (±SE) was comparable between the CCI and MF groups (56.30 ± 1.91 vs 59.46 ± 1.98, respectively). Mean improvement (±SE) from baseline to 36 months in overall KOOS was greater in the CCI group than the MF group (21.25 ± 3.60 vs 15.83 ± 3.48, respectively), while in a mixed linear model analysis with time as a categorical variable, significant differences favoring CCI were shown in overall KOOS (P = .048) and the subdomains of Pain (P = .044) and QoL (P = .036). More CCI- than MF-treated patients were treatment responders (83% vs 62%, respectively). In patients with symptom onset of <2 years, the mean improvement (±SE) from baseline to 36 months in overall KOOS was greater with CCI than MF (24.98 ± 4.34 vs 16.50 ± 3.99, respectively) and even greater in patients with symptom onset of <3 years (26.08 ± 4.10 vs 17.09 ± 3.77, respectively). Characterized chondrocyte implantation patients with high (>2) versus low (<2) gene profile scores showed greater improvement from baseline in mean overall KOOS (±SE) at 36 months (28.91 ± 5.69 vs 18.18 ± 5.08, respectively). Subchondral bone reaction significantly worsened over time with MF compared with CCI (P < .05).

Conclusion

Characterized chondrocyte implantation for the treatment of articular cartilage defects of the femoral condyles of the knee results in significantly better clinical outcome at 36 months in a randomized trial compared with MF. Time to treatment and chondrocyte quality were shown to affect outcome.
Evidence-Based Secondary Transition Predictors for Improving Postschool Outcomes for Students With Disabilities
Authors: Test David W. , Mazzotti Valerie L. , Mustian April L. , Fowler Catherine H. , Kortering Larry , Kohler Paula
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the secondary transition correlational literature to identify in-school predictors of improved postschool outcomes in the areas of education, employment, and/or independent living for students with disabilities. Based on results of this review, 16 evidence-based, in-school predictors of postschool outcomes were identified. Of the 16 predictors, 4 (25%) predicted improved outcomes in all three postschool outcome areas, 7 (43.8%) predicted improved outcomes for only postschool education and employment, and 5 (31.3%) predicted improved outcomes for employment only. Limitations and implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Social-Emotional and Character Development and Academics as a Dual Focus of Educational Policy
Authors: Elias Maurice J.
Published: October 2009

There is a missing piece to America’s education agenda, and children will continue to be left behind until that piece is addressed. Furthermore, children are not being systematically prepared for their complex roles as citizens in our democracy. A growing body of evidence from research and practice suggests reconceptualizing education as an integration of social-emotional and character development (SECD) and academic learning. This article reviews skills children need for effective social and academic participation, characteristics of schools that effectively integrate these forms of learning, and key reasons to adopt this integration. It concludes with examples of, and suggestions for, bringing SECD to prominence in educational policy making.
Models of Computation — Enabling Exascale
Authors: Sterling Thomas
Published: October 2009

A model of computation provides a set of governing principles and a discipline determining the objects, their interrelationships, parallel flow control, and distribution. In so doing it provides a conceptual framework for the co-design and operation for all layers of the software and hardware architecture system stack from programming model through system software to processor core instruction set and structures. As enabling technologies advance changing capabilities, balance, and design challenges, the response has been a phase change in how HPC systems are realized reflected by the development and adoption of new models of computation to best fit the emerging underlying technology conditions. This has occurred at least through five technology epochs in the past and the field is entering a sixth such with the heterogeneous multicore Petaflops decade. A brief presentation of the nature and characteristics of models of computation is offered here to contribute to the current community discussions on how to proceed towards the realization of the promise of practical Exascale computing by the end of the next decade.
Partial Differential Equation-Based Applications and Solvers At Extreme Scale
Authors: Keyes David
Published: October 2009

Partial differential equation-based applications of multi-scale, multiphysics phenomena have driven the quest for extreme architectural scales since the foundation of modern digital computing and will continue to be principal among a broader set of science drivers for the foreseeable future. However, scientific and engineering drivers ceased long ago to dominate the computing industry and any commercially viable path to the petascale would seem to be through architectures that are assembled from components designed without the balance of resources required by scientific and engineering simulations foremost in mind. Concurrency will be massive and will involve many cores sharing common memory at the finest scales and severely dividing available memory bandwidth. As a result, algorithm designers will have to look beyond the message-passing-based SPMD paradigm that dominates today’s most successful large-scale applications and solver frameworks, with stronger than ever emphasis on locality or operands and synchronization avoidance.
A Taxonomy of Academic Quality Indicators for U.S.-Based 4-Year Undergraduate Hospitality Management Programs
Authors: Assante Lisa Marie , Huffman Lynn , Harp Shelley S.
Published: October 2009

The purpose of the study was to classify quality indicators into unique construct groups. Seventy-two quality indicators were investigated as predictors of undergraduate hospitality management program excellence. A multidimensional approach was used on a sample of 277 stakeholders to answer relevant research questions. By cluster analysis of primary quality indicators for undergraduate hospitality management programs, three construct groups were identified: (a) students/alumni, industry support, faculty; (b) facilities, curriculum; and (c) research. Furthermore, results showed these groups to be unique in quality indicator characteristics. Implications for hospitality management program planning and assessment and suggestions for further research are discussed.
Toward a Theory of Restaurant Décor: An Empirical Examination of Italian Restaurants in Manhattan
Authors: Rahman Noushi
Published: October 2009

Restaurants have seldom been the subject of theory-driven empirical research. Moreover, extant literature has generally focused on food and service quality issues, ignoring décor as a key influencing factor in restaurant performance. Hence, we have much data on restaurants but limited useful understanding of restaurant décor. This study addresses the gap by examining décor of restaurants from an evolutionary theoretic and classical economics perspective. Age and competitive intensity are introduced as the predictor variables affecting the décor of restaurants. OLS regression analysis of 243 Italian restaurants in Manhattan finds that age and competitive intensity are negatively associated with décor, and competitive intensity exacerbates the extant negative association between age and décor.
Political Leadership, Bureaucracies and Business Schools: A Comfortable Union?
Authors: Clarke Martin , Butcher David
Published: October 2009

One of the central issues in reconciling pluralistic and bureaucratic forms of organizing lies in the absence of a coherent model of leadership. The intention here is to stimulate debate about the notion of political leadership as a contribution to this analysis. This approach to political leadership prioritizes the explicit acknowledgement of power relations as being central to the reconciliation of diverse interests, and to the building of moral communities in organizational settings. In developing this idea we explore the organizational context for the emergence of political leadership and consider its distinguishing features with reference to both theory and practice. Consideration is given to its utility in building moral organizational communities and how this approach to conceptualizing leadership might be furthered through business school education.
Islands of Practice: Conflict and a Lack of ‘Community’ in Situated Learning
Authors: Macpherson Allan , Clark Brenton
Published: October 2009

We examine how, in a utility company, existing practices and performance systems limited the scope of situated learning. We contribute to the understanding of situated learning by exploring how conflict, systems and artefacts also shape the trajectory of situated learning rather than just a sense of identity or meaningful participation. Systems and artefacts mediate interactions in organizations and potentially contribute to boundaries between teams, resulting in ‘islands of practice’ and stark variations in performance. This case study broadens our understanding of situated learning in organizations by challenging the relevance of ‘community’ in contemporary organizations where conflict and transience may be prevalent. We argue that practices and objects/artefacts are a fruitful way of researching organizational learning; situated learning in organizations is likely to be continually emerging against a constant battle to stabilize an appropriate set of practices that support the aims of management.
Early treatment of multiple sclerosis: A Latin American Experts Meeting
Authors: Garcea O , Villa1 A , Cáceres F , Adoni T , Alegría M , Thomaz R Barbosa , Buzo R , Lopez L Llamas , Kindel M Rivera
Published: October 2009

Patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) by definition do not have multiple sclerosis (MS) but are at risk of developing it. While studies show earlier immunomodulating drug use is effective, treatment must consider likely patient prognosis. In this paper we review current diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment literature for patients with CIS within Latin American clinical settings. Latin American MS experts, convened by ACINDES (The Civil Association for Research and Development in Health), reviewed current CIS (and early MS) literature and drew consensus conclusions. Three subgroups addressed separate questionnaires on CIS issues: prognosis, diagnosis, and treatment. MRI can contribute to predicting MS risk in patients with CIS; in Latin America, investigation of haplotype presence associated with CIS would be appropriate. McDonald's criteria and subsequent revisions enable earlier, more accurate MS diagnosis. Type A evidence exists supporting all leading immunomodulating MS drugs for effective treatment of CIS with a high risk of conversion to MS. In conclusion, patients with CIS are usually young, with often-limited symptomatic manifestations, and must be adequately prepared to receive preventive treatment. This consensus review should contribute to the dialogue between physicians and patients. Multiple Sclerosis 2009; 15: S1–S12. http://msj.sagepub.com
Long-Term Therapeutic and Orthotic Effects of a Foot Drop Stimulator on Walking Performance in Progressive and Nonprogressive Neurological Disorders
Authors: Stein Richard B. , Everaert Dirk G. , Thompson Aiko K. , Su Ling Chong  , Whittaker Maura , Robertson Jenny , Kuether Gerald
Published: October 2009

Background. Stimulators applying functional electrical stimulation (FES) to the common peroneal nerve improve walking with a foot drop, which occurs in several disorders. Objective. To compare the orthotic and therapeutic effects of a foot drop stimulator on walking performance of subjects with chronic nonprogressive (eg, stroke) and progressive (eg, multiple sclerosis) disorders. Methods . Subjects with nonprogressive (41) and progressive (32) conditions used a foot drop stimulator for 3 to 12 months while walking in the community. Walking speed was measured with a 10-m test and a 4-minute figure-8 test; physiological cost index (PCI) and device usage were also measured. The subjects were tested with FES on and off (orthotic effect) before and after (therapeutic effect) stimulator use. Results. After 3 months of FES use, the nonprogressive and progressive groups had a similar, significant orthotic effect (5.0% and 5.7%, respectively, P < .003; percentage change in mean values) and therapeutic effect with FES off (17.8% and 9.1%, respectively, P < .005) on figure-8 walking speed. Overall, PCI showed a decreasing trend ( P = .031). The therapeutic effect on figure-8 speed diverged later between both groups to 28.0% ( P < .001) and 7.9% at 11 months. The combined therapeutic plus orthotic effect on figure-8 speed at 11 months was, respectively, 37.8% ( P < .001) and 13.1% ( P = .012); PCI decreased 18.2% ( P = .038) and 6.5%, respectively. Conclusions. Subjects with progressive and nonprogressive disorders had an orthotic benefit from FES up to 11 months. The therapeutic effect increased for 11 months in nonprogressive disorders but only for 3 months in progressive disorders. The combined effect remained significant and clinically relevant.
The Effect of Positive Peer Reinforcement on Psychological Measures and Guitar Songleading Performance in University Students
Authors: Silverman Michael J.
Published: October 2009

The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of positive peer reinforcement on self-reported psychological measures and songleading performance in beginning guitar students. No differences were found between the control group ( n = 21) and the experimental group ( n = 20) concerning psychological measures of self-esteem, stress, and depression. However, the experimental group receiving positive peer reinforcement performed significantly better on a measure of guitar songleading performance than did the control group ( p < .001). These results suggest that using positive peer reinforcement in a university music methods class can be an effective technique to improve performance but may not affect psychological well-being.
The 7/8 Piano Keyboard: An Attractive Alternative for Small-Handed Players
Authors: Wristen Brenda , Hallbeck M. Susan
Published: October 2009

This study examines whether the use of a 7/8 keyboard contributes to the physical ease of small-handed pianists in comparison to the conventional piano keyboard. A secondary research question focuses on the progression of physical ease in making the transition from one keyboard to the other. For the purposes of this study, the authors stipulated having a hand span of 8 in. or less as defining a “small-handed” pianist. Objective data measures were obtained through the use of surface electromyography (muscle activity measurement) and electrogoniometry (angle measurement). A questionnaire instrument was also used to examine the perception of participants as they experienced playing the 7/8-size piano keyboard in direct comparison with the conventional keyboard. Although objective data findings from this study are somewhat ambiguous, it is clear from the questionnaires that the majority of small-handed participants preferred the 7/8-size keyboard over the conventional one.
An in vitro model of differentiation of memory B cells into plasmablasts and plasma cells including detailed phenotypic and molecular characterization
Authors: Jourdan Michel , Caraux Anouk , De Vos John , Fiol Geneviève , Larroque Marion , Cognot Chantal , Bret Caroline , Duperray Christophe , Hose Dirk , Klein Bernard
Published: October 2009

Human plasma cells (PCs) and their precursors play an essential role in humoral immune response but are rare and difficult to harvest. We report the generation of human syndecan-1+ and immunoglobulin secreting PCs starting from memory B cells in a 3-step and 10-day (D) culture, including a 6-fold cell amplification. We report the detailed phenotypic and Affymetrix gene expression profiles of these in vitro PCs as well as of intermediate cells (activated B cells and plasmablasts) compared with memory B cells and bone marrow PCs, which is accessible through an open web ATLAS (http://amazonia.transcriptome.eu/). We show this B cell–to-PC differentiation to involve IRF4 and AICDA expressions in D4 activated B cells, decrease of PAX5 and BCL6 expressions, and increase in PRDM1 and XBP1 expressions in D7 plasmablasts and D10 PCs. It involves down-regulation of genes controlled by Pax5 and induction of genes controlled by Blimp-1 and XBP1 (unfold protein response). The detailed phenotype of D10 PCs resembles that of peripheral blood PCs detected after immunization of healthy donors. This in vitro model will facilitate further studies in PC biology. It will likewise be helpful to study PC dyscrasias, including multiple myeloma.
Identification of microRNA expression patterns and definition of a microRNA/mRNA regulatory network in distinct molecular groups of multiple myeloma
Authors: Lionetti Marta , Biasiolo Marta , Agnelli Luca , Todoerti Katia , Mosca Laura , Fabris Sonia , Sales Gabriele , Deliliers Giorgio Lambertenghi , Bicciato Silvio , Lombardi Luigia , Bortoluzzi Stefania , Neri Antonino
Published: October 2009

To date, little evidence of miRNA expression/deregulation in multiple myeloma has been reported. To characterize miRNA in the context of the major multiple myeloma molecular types, we generated miRNA expression profiles of highly purified malignant plasma cells from 40 primary tumors. Furthermore, transcriptional profiles, available for all patients, were used to investigate the occurrence of miRNA/predicted target mRNA pair anticorrelations, and the miRNA and genome-wide DNA data were integrated in a subset of patients to evaluate the influence of allelic imbalances on miRNA expression. Differential miRNA expression patterns were identified, which were mainly associated with the major IGH translocations; particularly, t(4;14) patients showed specific overexpression of let-7e, miR-125a-5p, and miR-99b belonging to a cluster at 19q13.33. The occurrence of other lesions (ie, 1q gain, 13q and 17p deletions, and hyperdiploidy) was slightly characterized by specific miRNA signatures. Furthermore, the occurrence of several allelic imbalances or loss of heterozygosity was found significantly associated with the altered expression of miRNAs located in the involved regions, such as let-7b at 22q13.31 or miR-140-3p at 16q22. Finally, the integrative analysis based on computational target prediction and miRNA/mRNA profiling defined a network of putative functional miRNA-target regulatory relations supported by expression data.
Characterization of global microRNA expression reveals oncogenic potential of miR-145 in metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Arndt Greg M , Dossey Lesley , Cullen Lara M , Lai Angela , Druker Riki , Eisbacher Michael , Zhang Chunyan , Tran Nham , Fan Hongtao , Retzlaff Kathy , Bittner Anton , Raponi Mitch
Published: October 2009

Background

MicroRNAs (MiRNAs) are short non-coding RNAs that control protein expression through various mechanisms. Their altered expression has been shown to be associated with various cancers. The aim of this study was to profile miRNA expression in colorectal cancer (CRC) and to analyze the function of specific miRNAs in CRC cells. MirVana miRNA Bioarrays were used to determine the miRNA expression profile in eight CRC cell line models, 45 human CRC samples of different stages, and four matched normal colon tissue samples. SW620 CRC cells were stably transduced with miR-143 or miR-145 expression vectors and analyzed in vitro for cell proliferation, cell differentiation and anchorage-independent growth. Signalling pathways associated with differentially expressed miRNAs were identified using a gene set enrichment analysis.

Results

The expression analysis of clinical CRC samples identified 37 miRNAs that were differentially expressed between CRC and normal tissue. Furthermore, several of these miRNAs were associated with CRC tumor progression including loss of miR-133a and gain of miR-224. We identified 11 common miRNAs that were differentially expressed between normal colon and CRC in both the cell line models and clinical samples. In vitro functional studies indicated that miR-143 and miR-145 appear to function in opposing manners to either inhibit or augment cell proliferation in a metastatic CRC model. The pathways targeted by miR-143 and miR-145 showed no significant overlap. Furthermore, gene expression analysis of metastatic versus non-metastatic isogenic cell lines indicated that miR-145 targets involved in cell cycle and neuregulin pathways were significantly down-regulated in the metastatic context.

Conclusion

MiRNAs showing altered expression at different stages of CRC could be targets for CRC therapies and be further developed as potential diagnostic and prognostic analytes. The identified biological processes and signalling pathways collectively targeted by co-expressed miRNAs in CRC provide a basis for understanding the functional role of miRNAs in cancer.
Clinical meaning of age-related expression of fecal cytokeratin 19 in colorectal malignancy
Authors: Chang Chun-Chao , Yang Shung-Haur , Chien Chih-Cheng , Chen Shu-Hung , Pan Shiann , Lee Chia-Long , Lin Chih-Ming , Sun Hsiao-Lun , Huang Chi-Cheng , Wu Yih-Yiing , Yang Ruey-Neng , Huang Chi-Jung
Published: October 2009

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of malignant death worldwide. Because young age of onset is often considered a poor prognostic factor for CRC, it is important to identify the poor outcomes of CRC in a younger population and to consider an aggressive approach by implementing early treatment. Our aim was to specifically quantify the fecal cytokeratin 19 (CK19) transcript from CRC patients and investigate its correlation with clinical stage, tumor malignancy, and age.

Methods

The quantitation of fecal CK19 transcript was determined by a quantitative real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain in 129 CRC patients (45 younger than 60 years at diagnosis) and 85 healthy controls. The levels of CK19 protein were examined both in colonic cell lines and tissues.

Results

The analysis of 45 younger CRC patients (age ≤ 60 years) revealed that patients at the M1 stage had significantly higher expression levels of fecal CK19 mRNA when compared with healthy controls (p< 0.001) and patients at the M0 stage (p= 0.004). Additionally, the degree of consistency between the mean level of fecal CK19 mRNA and the distant metastatic rate in each age interval was up to 89% (p= 0.042).

Conclusion

These results indicate that high levels of fecal CK19 mRNA represent a potential marker for colorectal malignancy and for aggressive treatment of younger CRC patients.
Loss of prostasin (PRSS8) in human bladder transitional cell carcinoma cell lines is associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)
Authors: Chen Li-Mei , Verity Nicole J , Chai Karl X
Published: October 2009

Background

The glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored epithelial extracellular membrane serine protease prostasin (PRSS8) is expressed abundantly in normal epithelia and essential for terminal epithelial differentiation, but down-regulated in human prostate, breast, and gastric cancers and invasive cancer cell lines. Prostasin is involved in the extracellular proteolytic modulation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and is an invasion suppressor. The aim of this study was to evaluate prostasin expression states in the transitional cell carcinomas (TCC) of the human bladder and in human TCC cell lines.

Methods

Normal human bladder tissues and TCC on a bladder cancer tissue microarray (TMA) were evaluated for prostasin expression by means of immunohistochemistry. A panel of 16 urothelial and TCC cell lines were evaluated for prostasin and E-cadherin expression by western blot and quantitative PCR, and for prostasin gene promoter region CpG methylation by methylation-specific PCR (MSP).

Results

Prostasin is expressed in the normal human urothelium and in a normal human urothelial cell line, but is significantly down-regulated in high-grade TCC and lost in 9 (of 15) TCC cell lines. Loss of prostasin expression in the TCC cell lines correlated with loss of or reduced E-cadherin expression, loss of epithelial morphology, and promoter DNA hypermethylation. Prostasin expression could be reactivated by demethylation or inhibition of histone deacetylase. Re-expression of prostasin or a serine protease-inactive variant resulted in transcriptional up-regulation of E-cadherin.

Conclusion

Loss of prostasin expression in bladder transitional cell carcinomas is associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and may have functional implications in tumor invasion and resistance to chemotherapy.
Habitat stability and occurrences of malaria vector larvae in western Kenya highlands
Authors: Himeidan Yousif E , Zhou Guofa , Yakob Laith , Afrane Yaw , Munga Stephen , Atieli Harrysone , El-Rayah El-Amin , Githeko Andrew K , Yan Guiyun
Published: October 2009

Background

Although the occurrence of malaria vector larvae in the valleys of western Kenya highlands is well documented, knowledge of larval habitats in the uphill sites is lacking. Given that most inhabitants of the highlands actually dwell in the uphill regions, it is important to develop understanding of mosquito breeding habitat stability in these sites in order to determine their potential for larval control.

Methods

A total of 128 potential larval habitats were identified in hilltops and along the seasonal streams in the Sigalagala area of Kakamega district, western Kenya. Water availability in the habitats was followed up daily from August 3, 2006 to February 23, 2007. A habitat is defined as stable when it remains aquatic continuously for at least 12 d. Mosquito larvae were observed weekly. Frequencies of aquatic, stable and larvae positive habitats were compared between the hilltop and seasonal stream area using χ2-test. Factors affecting the presence/absence of Anopheles gambiae larvae in the highlands were determined using multiple logistic regression analysis.

Results

Topography significantly affected habitat availability and stability. The occurrence of aquatic habitats in the hilltop was more sporadic than in the stream area. The percentage of habitat occurrences that were classified as stable during the rainy season is 48.76% and 80.79% respectively for the hilltop and stream area. Corresponding frequencies of larvae positive habitats were 0% in the hilltop and 5.91% in the stream area. After the rainy season, only 23.42% of habitat occurrences were stable and 0.01% larvae positive habitats were found in the hilltops, whereas 89.75% of occurrences remained stable in the stream area resulting in a frequency of 12.21% larvae positive habitats. The logistic regression analysis confirmed the association between habitat stability and larval occurrence and indicated that habitat surface area was negatively affecting the occurrence of An. gambiae larvae. While An. gambiae and An. funestus larvae occurred throughout the study period along the streams, a total of only 15 An. gambiae larvae were counted in the hilltops, and no An. funestus were found. Moreover, no larvae managed to develop into adults in the hilltops, and the density of adult An. gambiae was consistently low, averaging at 0.06 females per house per survey.

Conclusion

The occurrence of malaria vector larvae in the hilltop area was uncommon as a result of the low availability and high instability of habitats. To optimize the cost-effectiveness of malaria interventions in the western Kenya highlands, larval control should be focused primarily along the streams, as these are likely the only productive habitats at high altitude.
Amyloid-β colocalizes with apolipoprotein B in absorptive cells of the small intestine
Authors: Galloway Susan , Takechi Ryusuke , Pallebage-Gamarallage Menuka MS , Dhaliwal Satvinder S , Mamo John CL
Published: October 2009

Background

Amyloid-β is recognized as the major constituent of senile plaque found in subjects with Alzheimer's disease. However, there is increasing evidence that in a physiological context amyloid-β may serve as regulating apolipoprotein, primarily of the triglyceride enriched lipoproteins. To consider this hypothesis further, this study utilized an in vivo immunological approach to explore in lipogenic tissue whether amyloid-β colocalizes with nascent triglyceride-rich lipoproteins.

Results

In murine absorptive epithelial cells of the small intestine, amyloid-β had remarkable colocalization with chylomicrons (Manders overlap coefficient = 0.73 ± 0.03 (SEM)), the latter identified as immunoreactive apolipoprotein B. A diet enriched in saturated fats doubled the abundance of both amyloid-β and apo B and increased the overlap coefficient of the two proteins (0.87 ± 0.02). However, there was no evidence that abundance of the two proteins was interdependent within the enterocytes (Pearson's Coefficient < 0.02 ± 0.03), or in plasma (Pearson's Coefficient < 0.01).

Conclusion

The findings of this study are consistent with the possibility that amyloid-β is secreted by enterocytes as an apolipoprotein component of chylomicrons. However, secretion of amyloid-β appears to be independent of chylomicron biogenesis.