bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Up and coming SIGWEB supported conferences
Authors: Deshpande Yogesh
Published: January 2010

SIGWEB supports several specialized conferences, short courses, and workshops, as well as the Annual Hypertext Conference. SIGWEB sponsored conferences focus on timely topics in applied and computational hypertext and Web disciplines and provide a place for members and the entire applied Hypermedia and Web community to exchange ideas and to meet with and expand their network of colleagues. In this article, we provide a brief overview of SIGWEB sponsored conferences, in addition to events that are in cooperation with SIGWEB.
An Alternative Way to Assess the ROI of e-Learning in Training
Authors: Lambe Patrick
Published: January 2010

Patrick Lambe explains in this article ways that e-learning professionals might assess the return on investment of their programs. Here in Part I, he provides a brief background on the economics of e-learning. Part II looks at some of the most common ways that organizations deploy e-learning to support their strategic objectives, and shows how measurement of viability and impact can be approached within those situations. The article is adapted from Patti Shank and Saul Carliner's book, The E-Learning Handbook, Past Promises, Present Challenges (Pfeiffer, 2008).
Variation of the Equator due to a Highly Inclined and Eccentric Disturber
Authors: do Nascimento Clair , Yokoyama Tadashi
Published: January 2010

The New Horizons project is currently in progress, but until recently years ago, a
mission to Neptune‐Triton System predicted in the mid term 2008–2013 was one of the
priorities of NASA′s Solar System Exploration theme. Any way, it is important to
increase our knowledge on the dynamics of the inner satellites of Neptune, since
according to some authors, this was a key question in the mission to Neptune‐Triton
system. In a previous work, we presented the expansion of the disturbing function for
the dynamics of this system. Here we derive the averaged classical equations of the
precession of the equator for this problem. The highly inclined and retrograde orbit of
Triton makes this problem very unusual. Therefore, the classical truncations in the
inclinations are not acceptable, so that the precession equations must be obtained in
closed form for the inclination. With a significant mass and due to its distance from
Neptune, which is continuously decreasing, Triton should exert in the future, important
precession on Neptune′s equator. The effects of this precession on the inner satellites
are shown, including some resonant cases predicted in the future. Although Triton′s
orbit is almost circular, no expansion in the eccentricity is needed.
The Edgerton Structure: A Possible Meteorite Impact Feature in Eastern Kansas
Authors: Merriam Daniel F. , Xia Jianghai , Harbaugh John W.
Published: January 2010

Recognized meteorite impact features are relatively rare in the U.S. Midcontinent region, but recently with increased interest and research, the number has increased dramatically. We add another possibility to the growing list, the Edgerton structure in northwestern Miami County, Kansas. The feature is elliptical (∼5.5 × 6.5 km, slightly elongated east-west) with radial surface drainage. The feature was first observed on hillshade maps of digitized topography of 7.5 minute quadrangles. Subsequent magnetic profiles show a higher magnetic value in the center of the ellipse with higher values around the edges; this shape is characteristic of an impact feature. Depth to the anomalous body is estimated to be about 1 km, which puts it in the Precambrian crystalline basement under a cover of Paleozoic sediments. There are no deep boreholes in the vicinity and no seismic profiles are available. If it is an impact structure, it will be the second such feature documented in Kansas, the first being the Brenham meteorite crater at Haviland in Kiowa County in southwestern Kansas. It would be older than the other impact structures identified in the Midcontinent—Manson in Iowa, Ames in Oklahoma, Haswell Hole in Colorado, and possibly Belton in Missouri and Merna in Nebraska. There are at least two other prospective impact features in Kansas: the Goddard ring west of Wichita and Garden City ellipse north-west of Garden City.
Eosinophilic Pleural Effusion: A Rare Manifestation of Hypereosinophilic Syndrome
Authors: Okafor Ndubuisi C. , Oso Ayodeji A. , Oranu Amanke C. , Wolff Steven M. , Murray John J.
Published: January 2010

Several causes of eosinophilic pleural effusions have been described with malignancy being the commonest cause. Hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is a rare disease and very few cases have been reported of HES presenting as eosinophilic pleural effusion (EPE). We report a case of a 26-year-old male who presented with shortness of breath. He had bilateral pleural effusions, generalized lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, and leukocytosis with marked peripheral blood eosinophilia. The pleural fluid was exudative, with 25%–30% eosinophilis, and absence of neoplastic cells. Hypereosinophilic syndrome was diagnosed after other causes of eosinophilia were excluded. He continued to be dyspneic with persistent accumulation of eosinophilic pleural fluid, even after his peripheral eosinophil count had normalized in response to treatment. This patient represents a very unusual presentation of HES with dyspnea and pleural effusions and demonstrates that treatment based on response of peripheral eosinophil counts, as is currently recommended, may not always be clinically adequate.
Physical Properties of Gas Hydrates: A Review
Authors: Gabitto Jorge F. , Tsouris Costas
Published: January 2010

Methane gas hydrates in sediments have been studied by several investigators as a possible future energy resource. Recent hydrate reserves have been estimated at approximately1016 m3of methane gas worldwide at standard temperature and pressure conditions. In situ dissociation of natural gas hydrate is necessary in order to commercially exploit the resource from the natural-gas-hydrate-bearing sediment. The presence of gas hydrates in sediments dramatically alters some of the normal physical properties of the sediment. These changes can be detected by field measurements and by down-hole logs. An understanding of the physical properties of hydrate-bearing sediments is necessary for interpretation of geophysical data collected in field settings, borehole, and slope stability analyses; reservoir simulation; and production models. This work reviews information available in literature related to the physical properties of sediments containing gas hydrates. A brief review of the physical properties of bulk gas hydrates is included. Detection methods, morphology, and relevant physical properties of gas-hydrate-bearing sediments are also discussed.
Monocyte Expression of Adhesion Molecules during Low- and High-Flux Polysulfone Hemodialysis and the Effect of Atorvastatin Administration
Authors: Stavroulopoulos Aristeidis , Petras Dimitrios , Kakavas Ioannis , Agroyannis Ioannis , Stamatelou Kyriaki , Vyssoulis Georgios , Papadakis Ioannis T. , Stefanadis Christodoulos
Published: January 2010

Background/Aims: Aims of the present study are to examine the effects of atorvastatin administration and the influence of membrane flux on adhesion molecules expression on monocytes. Methods: We studied CD11b, CD18 and CD62L expression on monocytes (flow cytometry) in 32 patients, 16 on low-flux (LFD) and 16 on high-flux (HFD) polysulfone hemodialysis, before and after dialysis and also after administration of atorvastatin 20 mg/day for 6 months. Results: After hemodialysis, expression of CD11b and CD18 increased and expression of CD62L decreased. After atorvastatin administration there was a decrease in pre-dialysis monocyte expression of CD11b and CD18, and an increase in the expression of CD62L compared to pre-dialysis baseline values. There were no statistically significant differences in expression of all three molecules between LFD and HFD groups. Conclusions: Polysulfone dialysis process activates monocytes irrespectively of the membrane flux. Atorvastatin use is associated with reduced monocyte activation.
Association between Serum γ-Glutamyltransferase and Chronic Kidney Disease among US Adults
Authors: Teppala Srinivas , Shankar Anoop , Li Jialiang , Wong Tien Yin , Ducatman Alan
Published: January 2010

Background/Aim: Serum γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT), a biomarker of oxidative stress, is associated with an increased risk of diabetes and hypertension. However, it is not known whether higher serum GGT is independently associated with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Therefore, we examined the association between serum GGT levels and CKD in a representative sample of US adults. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study of 9,516 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2002 participants ≧18 years of age (52.40% women). Serum GGT was categorized into quartiles for the analysis. CKD (n = 622) was defined as an estimated glomerular filtration rate of <60 ml/min/1.73 m2. Results and Conclusion: Higher serum GGT levels were not associated with CKD after adjusting for age, sex, race/ethnicity, education levels, smoking, alcohol intake, body mass index (BMI), diabetes, hypertension and serum cholesterol. Compared to quartile 1 of GGT, the odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of CKD associated with quartile 4 was 1.02 (0.81–1.28); p trend = 0.377. Subgroup analyses that examined the relation between GGT and CKD by gender, alcohol intake, and BMI categories also showed a consistent null association. In summary, there was no association between increasing levels of serum GGT and CKD in a sample of US adults.
Are Sodium Transporters in Urinary Exosomes Reliable Markers of Tubular Sodium Reabsorption in Hypertensive Patients?
Authors: Esteva-Font Cristina , Wang Xiaoyan , Ars Elisabet , Guillén-Gómez Elena , Sans Laia , González Saavedra Isabel , Torres Ferran , Torra Roser , Masilamani Shyama , Ballarín José Aurelio , Fernández-Llama Patricia
Published: January 2010

Background: Altered renal sodium handling has a major pathogenic role in salt-sensitive hypertension. Renal sodium transporters are present in urinary exosomes. We hypothesized that sodium transporters would be excreted into the urine in different amounts in response to sodium intake in salt-sensitive versus salt-resistant patients. Methods: Urinary exosomes were isolated by ultracentrifugation, and their content of Na-K-2Cl cotransporter (NKCC2) and Na-Cl cotransporter (NCC) was analyzed by immunoblotting. Animal studies: NKCC2 and NCC excretion was measured in 2 rat models to test whether changes in sodium transporter excretion are indicative of regulated changes in the kidney tissue. Human studies: in hypertensive patients (n = 41), we investigated: (1) a possible correlation between sodium reabsorption and urinary exosomal excretion of sodium transporters, and (2) the profile of sodium transporter excretion related to blood pressure (BP) changes with salt intake. A 24-hour ambulatory BP monitoring and a 24-hour urine collection were performed after 1 week on a low- and 1 week on a high-salt diet. Results: Animal studies: urinary NKCC2 and NCC excretion rates correlated well with their abundance in the kidney. Human studies:6 patients (15%) were classified as salt sensitive. The NKCC2 and NCC abundance did not decrease after the high-salt period, when the urinary sodium reabsorption decreased from 99.7 to 99.0%. In addition, the changes in BP with salt intake were not associated with a specific profile of exosomal excretion. Conclusions: Our results do not support the idea that excretion levels of NKCC2 and NCC via urinary exosomes are markers of tubular sodium reabsorption in hypertensive patients.
Pathophysiology and Possible Iatrogenic Cause of Leiomyomatosis Peritonealis Disseminata
Authors: Al-Talib Ayman , Tulandi Togas
Published: January 2010

We present a case of leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata (LPD) after myoma morcellation and review the literature using the keywords leiomyomatosis peritonealis disseminata and disseminated peritoneal leiomyomatosis. The search was conducted in Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database of systematic reviews. We encountered 132 cases of LPD in the English literature; 113 in the reproductive age group, 7 in postmenopausal women, 6 in males, and another in a horse. The possible causes could be divided into hormonal, subperitoneal mesenchymal stem cells, metaplasia, genetic, or iatrogenic after morcellation of myoma during laparoscopic surgery. Our case and 4 others reported in the literature support the contribution of the iatrogenic theory. It appears that LPD could be due to metaplasia of mesenchymal cells of the peritoneum and, in susceptible women, leaving fragments of myoma in the abdominal cavity might contribute to the development of LPD. Accordingly, one should avoid leaving fragments of the uterus or myoma tissue in the abdominal cavity after morcellation.
Potential Mechanisms Contributing to Decision-Making Difficulties in Late Adulthood
Authors: McCarrey Anna C. , Henry Julie D. , Luszcz Mary
Published: January 2010

This paper critiques Brand and Markowitsch’s viewpoint that the decision-making difficulties experienced by older adults during laboratory-based gambling tasks can be attributed to deficits in executive control and feedback operations. While Brand and Markowitsch provide an important platform with which to understand the role of these specific component processes, there are other additional mechanisms that also seem likely to be important when understanding gambling decisions in late adulthood. We focus on several of these mechanisms, and in particular, the manner in which decision-relevant information is received, the role of changes in emotion and motivation (with particular reference to Socioemotional Selectivity Theory), and changes in autobiographical memory that may affect understanding how decision-making during gambling occurs in late adulthood. By building on the cognitive-based and emotion-based processes that Brand and Markowitsch mention as important in decision-making by the aged, our critique highlights avenues for future research in this important area.
Molecular and Functional Characterization of a Novel Cardiac-Specific Human Tropomyosin Isoform
Authors: Rajan Sudarsan , Jagatheesan Ganapathy , Karam Chehade N. , Alves Marco L. , Bodi Ilona , Schwartz Arnold , Bulcao Christian F. , D'Souza Karen M. , Akhter Shahab A. , Boivin Greg P. , Dube Dipak K. , Petrashevskaya Natalia , Herr Andrew B. , Hullin Roger , Liggett Stephen B. , Wolska Beata M. , Solaro R. John , Wieczorek David F.
Published: January 2010

Background—

Tropomyosin (TM), an essential actin-binding protein, is central to the control of calcium-regulated striated muscle contraction. Although TPM1α (also called α-TM) is the predominant TM isoform in human hearts, the precise TM isoform composition remains unclear.

Methods and Results—

In this study, we quantified for the first time the levels of striated muscle TM isoforms in human heart, including a novel isoform called TPM1κ. By developing a TPM1κ-specific antibody, we found that the TPM1κ protein is expressed and incorporated into organized myofibrils in hearts and that its level is increased in human dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure. To investigate the role of TPM1κ in sarcomeric function, we generated transgenic mice overexpressing cardiac-specific TPM1κ. Incorporation of increased levels of TPM1κ protein in myofilaments leads to dilated cardiomyopathy. Physiological alterations include decreased fractional shortening, systolic and diastolic dysfunction, and decreased myofilament calcium sensitivity with no change in maximum developed tension. Additional biophysical studies demonstrate less structural stability and weaker actin-binding affinity of TPM1κ compared with TPM1α.

Conclusions—

This functional analysis of TPM1κ provides a possible mechanism for the consequences of the TM isoform switch observed in dilated cardiomyopathy and heart failure patients.
Smooth Muscle–Specific Deletion of Nitric Oxide–Sensitive Guanylyl Cyclase Is Sufficient to Induce Hypertension in Mice
Authors: Groneberg Dieter , König Peter , Wirth Angela , Offermanns Stefan , Koesling Doris , Friebe Andreas
Published: January 2010

Background—

Arterial hypertension is one of the major diseases in industrial countries and a major cause of mortality. One of the main vascular factors responsible for the relaxation of blood vessels and regulation of blood pressure is nitric oxide (NO). NO acts predominantly via NO-sensitive guanylyl cyclase (NO-GC), which is made up of 2 different subunits (α and β). Deletion of the β
1
subunit leads to a global NO-GC knockout, and these mice are hypertensive. However, global deletion of NO-GC in mice does not allow identification of the cell/tissue type responsible for the elevated blood pressure.

Methods and Results—

To determine the relative contribution of smooth muscle cells to the hypertension seen in NO-GC knockout mice, we generated smooth muscle–specific knockout mice for the β
1
subunit of NO-GC using a tamoxifen-inducible system. Male mice were investigated because the Cre transgene used is located on the Y chromosome. Tamoxifen injection led to a rapid reduction of NO-GC expression in smooth muscle but did not affect that in other tissues. Parallel to a reduction in NO-induced cGMP accumulation, NO-induced relaxation of aortic smooth muscle was gradually lost after induction by tamoxifen. Concomitantly, these animals developed hypertension within 3 to 4 weeks.

Conclusions—

We generated a model in which the development of hypertension can be visualized over time by deletion of a single gene in smooth muscle cells. In sum, our data provide evidence that deletion of NO-GC solely in smooth muscle is sufficient to cause hypertension.
Arterial Structure and Function After Recovery From the Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Koskinen Juha , Magnussen Costan G. , Taittonen Leena , Räsänen Leena , Mikkilä Vera , Laitinen Tomi , Rönnemaa Tapani , Kähönen Mika , Viikari Jorma S.A. , Raitakari Olli T. , Juonala Markus
Published: January 2010

Background—

The reversibility of ultrasonographic vascular changes associated with the metabolic syndrome (MetS) recovery is unknown. We examined whether spontaneous recovery from MetS (according to the International Diabetes Federation definition) has a favorable effect on vascular properties and evaluated the associations between lifestyle factors and MetS recovery.

Methods and Results—

We measured carotid artery intima-media thickness, distensibility, and brachial flow-mediated dilatation by ultrasound in 1673 subjects of the Young Finns Study cohort (age, 31.5±5.0 years in 2001) who participated in follow-up studies in 2001 and 2007. At baseline, no differences in intima-media thickness, carotid artery distensibility, or flow-mediated dilatation were observed between the recovery group (baseline-only MetS) and those with incident (only at follow-up) or persistent (both at baseline and follow-up) MetS. After 6 years, the recovery group had smaller intima-media thickness (mean±SEM, 0.62±0.01 versus 0.68±0.01 mm;
P
=0.0009) and higher carotid artery distensibility (1.98±0.07%/mm Hg versus 1.56±0.04%/mm Hg;
P
=0.001) compared with the persistent group and higher flow-mediated dilatation compared with the control group (9.91±0.51% versus 8.57±0.12%;
P
=0.03). The recovery group had reduced intima-media thickness progression compared with the persistent group (0.036±0.005 versus 0.079±0.010 mm;
P
=0.001) and reduced carotid artery distensibility change compared with the incident group (−0.12±0.05%/mm Hg versus −0.38±0.10%/mm Hg;
P
=0.03) over the 6-year follow-up. Differences in carotid artery distensibility levels were attenuated (
P
=0.11) after the inclusion of weight change in the models. MetS recovery was paralleled with significant reductions in waist circumference that independently correlated with increased physical activity and increased attention paid to health habits during the follow-up.

Conclusion—

Recovery from the MetS was associated with positive effects on vascular properties during a 6-year follow-up period of young adults.
Increased Renin Production in Mice With Deletion of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ in Juxtaglomerular Cells
Authors: Desch Michael , Schreiber Andrea , Schweda Frank , Madsen Kirsten , Friis Ulla G. , Weatherford Eric T. , Sigmund Curt D. , Sequeira Lopez Maria Luisa , Gomez R. Ariel , Todorov Vladimir T.
Published: January 2010

We recently found that endogenous (free fatty acids) and pharmacological (thiazolidinediones) agonists of nuclear receptor Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)γ stimulate renin transcription. In addition, the renin gene was identified as a direct target of PPARγ. The mouse renin gene is regulated by PPARγ through a distal enhancer direct repeat closely related to consensus PPAR response element (PPRE). In vitro studies demonstrated that PPARγ knockdown stimulated PPRE-driven transcription. These data predicted that deficiency of PPARγ would upregulate mouse renin expression. Consistent with these observations knockdown of PPARγ increased the transcription of a reporter gene driven by the mouse renin PPRE-like motif in vitro. To study the impact of PPARγ on renin production in vivo, we used a cre/lox system to generate double-transgenic mice with disrupted PPARγ locus in renin-producing juxtaglomerular (JG) cells of the kidney (RC-PPARγ
fl/fl
mice). We provide evidence that PPARγ expression was effectively reduced in JG cells of RC-PPARγ
fl/fl
mice. Fluorescent immunohistochemistry showed stronger renin signal in RC-PPARγ
fl/fl
than in littermate control RC-PPARγ
wt/wt
mice. Renin mRNA levels and plasma renin concentration in RC-PPARγ
fl/fl
mice were almost 2-fold higher than in littermate controls. Arterial blood pressure and pressure control of renal vascular resistance, which play decisive roles in the regulation of renin production were indistinguishable between RC-PPARγ
wt/wt
and RC-PPARγ
fl/fl
mice. These data demonstrate that the JG-specific PPARγ deficiency results in increased mouse renin expression in vivo thus corroborating earlier in vitro results. PPARγ appears to be a relevant transcription factor for the control of renin gene in JG cells.
Baseline Depressive Symptoms Are Not Associated With Clinically Important Levels of Incident Hypertension During Two Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Delaney Joseph A.C. , Oddson Bruce E. , Kramer Holly , Shea Steven , Psaty Bruce M. , McClelland Robyn L.
Published: January 2010

Previous longitudinal cohort studies have suggested an association between baseline depressive symptoms and incident hypertension. We assessed this possible association using data from the Multi-ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis, a population-based prospective cohort study of 6814 US adults from 4 different racial/ethnic groups. Baseline users of antihypertensive medications and participants lost to follow-up were excluded leaving 3914 participants. Patients with baseline depressive symptoms (n=622) were defined using a high score on the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (≥16) or the use of an antidepressant medication. Hypertension was defined as systolic blood pressure of ≥140 mm Hg, diastolic blood pressure of ≥90 mm Hg or new use of antihypertensive medications plus physician diagnosis. Estimates were adjusted for known risk factors, including age, sex, baseline blood pressure, diabetes, and body mass index. Untreated blood pressure was estimated using an imputation approach. A total of 477 participants developed hypertension. Using relative risk regression, patients with baseline depressive symptoms did not have an increased risk of incident hypertension (relative risk: 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.99 to 1.05), although an association between tricyclic antidepressants and hypertension (relative risk: 1.20; 95% CI: 1.05 to 1.37) was observed in subgroup analysis. Depression, even after adjustment for covariates, was associated with small changes in systolic (+2.4 mm Hg; 95% CI: 0.2 to 4.7) and diastolic (+0.8 mm Hg; 95% CI: −0.6 to 2.3) blood pressures. Depressive symptoms may be associated with slight increases in blood pressure in this multiethnic cohort, but it is premature to conclude much without longer studies in other populations.
Wave Reflection and Arterial Stiffness in the Prediction of 15-Year All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortalities
Authors: Wang Kang-Ling , Cheng Hao-Min , Sung Shih-Hsien , Chuang Shao-Yuan , Li Cheng-Hung , Spurgeon Harold A. , Ting Chih-Tai , Najjar Samer S. , Lakatta Edward G. , Yin Frank C.P. , Chou Pesus , Chen Chen-Huan
Published: January 2010

The value of increased arterial wave reflection, usually assessed by the transit time–dependent augmentation index and augmented pressure (Pa), in the prediction of cardiovascular events may have been underestimated. We investigated whether the transit time–independent measures of reflected wave magnitude predict cardiovascular outcomes independent of arterial stiffness indexed by carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. A total of 1272 participants (47% women; mean age: 52±13 years; range: 30 to 79 years) from a community-based survey were studied. Carotid pressure waveforms derived by tonometry were decomposed into their forward wave amplitudes, backward wave amplitudes (Pb), and a reflection index (=[Pb/(forward wave amplitude+Pb)]), in addition to augmentation index, Pa, and reflected wave transit time. During a median follow-up of 15 years, 225 deaths occurred (17.6%), including 64 cardiovascular origins (5%). In univariate Cox proportional hazard regression analysis, pulse wave velocity, Pa, and Pb predicted all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in both men and women, whereas augmentation index, reflected wave transit time, and reflection index were predictive only in men. In multivariate analysis accounting for age, height, and heart rate, Pb predicted cardiovascular mortality in both men and women, whereas Pa was predictive only in men. Per 1-SD increment (6 mm Hg), Pb predicted 15-year cardiovascular mortality independent of brachial but not central pressure, pulse wave velocity, augmentation index, Pa, and conventional cardiovascular risk factors with hazard ratios of ≈1.60 (all
P
<0.05). In conclusion, Pb, a transit time–independent measure of reflected wave magnitude, predicted long-term cardiovascular mortality in men and women independent of arterial stiffness.
Aldosterone Abrogates Nuclear Factor κB–Mediated Tumor Necrosis Factor α Production in Human Neutrophils via the Mineralocorticoid Receptor
Authors: Bergmann Astrid , Eulenberg Claudia , Wellner Maren , Rolle Susanne , Luft Friedrich , Kettritz Ralph
Published: January 2010

Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) activation by aldosterone controls salt homeostasis and inflammation in several tissues and cell types. Whether or not a functional MR exists in polymorphonuclear neutrophils is unknown. We investigated the hypothesis that aldosterone modulates inflammatory neutrophil responses via the MR. By flow cytometry, Western blot analysis, and microscopy, we found that neutrophils possess MR. Preincubation with aldosterone (10
−11
to 10
−6
M) dose-dependently inhibited nuclear factor κB activation in interleukin (IL)-8– and granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor–treated neutrophils on fibronectin by IκBα Western blotting, electrophoretic mobility shift assay, and RT-PCR for IκBα mRNA. Aldosterone had no effect on tumor necrosis factor α– and lipopolysaccharide-mediated nuclear factor κB activation or on IL-8– and granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating factor–induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, or phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt activation. Spironolactone prevented nuclear factor κB inhibition, indicating an MR-specific aldosterone effect. By RT-PCR, we found that neutrophils have 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Tumor necrosis factor α, which is controlled by nuclear factor κB, increased in the cell supernatant with IL-8 treatment. Aldosterone completely prevented this effect. RT-PCR showed a strong tumor necrosis factor α mRNA increase with IL-8 that was blocked by aldosterone, excluding the possibility that the tumor necrosis factor α increase was merely a consequence of secretion. Finally, conditioned medium from IL-8–treated neutrophils increased intercellular adhesion molecule–1 expression on endothelial cells and subsequently the adhesion of IL-8–treated neutrophils to endothelial cells. These effects were reduced when conditioned medium from aldosterone-pretreated neutrophils was used, and spironolactone blocked the aldosterone effect. Our data indicate that a functional MR exists in neutrophils mediating antiinflammatory effects that are at work when neutrophils interact with endothelial cells. These data could be relevant to MR-blockade treatment protocols.
mPGES-1 Protects Against DOCA-Salt Hypertension via Inhibition of Oxidative Stress or Stimulation of NO/cGMP
Authors: Jia Zhanjun , Aoyagi Toshinori , Yang Tianxin
Published: January 2010

Microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) is a recently characterized cytokine-inducible enzyme critically involved in pain and inflammatory response. However, its role in blood pressure regulation is still debatable. The present study was undertaken to examine the effect of mPGES-1 deletion on DOCA-salt hypertension. After 2 weeks of DOCA plus 1% NaCl as drinking fluid, hypertension and sodium retention were more severe in mPGES-1 knockout (KO) mice than in wild-type (WT) controls. The indices of oxidative stress including urinary 8-isprostane and renal thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances were only modestly increased or unchanged in the WT mice but more significantly increased in the KO mice after DOCA-salt. Conversely, in response to DOCA-salt, the indices of antioxidant systems including renal expression of superoxide dismutase-3 and urinary nitrate/nitrite excretion were all significantly elevated in the WT mice but remarkably suppressed in the KO mice. Tempol treatment (50 mg/kg per day) in DOCA-salt KO mice produced a marked attenuation of hypertension, sodium retention, and kidney injury. Immunoblotting demonstrated increased renal expression of mPGES-1 in DOCA-salt WT mice. DOCA-salt induced a nearly 5-fold increase in urinary PGE
2
excretion in the WT mice, and this increase was completely abolished in the KO mice. Together, these results suggest that mPGES-1–derived PGE
2
confers protection against DOCA-salt hypertension likely via inhibition of oxidative stress or stimulation of superoxide dismutase-3 and urinary nitrate/nitrite system.
Codd's Self-Replicating Computer
Authors: Hutton Tim J.
Published: January 2010

Edgar Codd's 1968 design for a self-replicating cellular automaton has never been implemented. Partly this is due to its enormous size, but we have also identified four problems with the original specification that would prevent it from working. These problems potentially cast doubt on Codd's central assertion, that the eight-state space he presents supports the existence of machines that can act as universal constructors and computers. However, all these problems were found to be correctable, and we present a complete and functioning implementation after making minor changes to the design and transition table. The body of the final machine occupies an area that is 22,254 cells wide and 55,601 cells high, composed of over 45 million nonzero cells in its unsheathed form. The data tape is 208 million cells long, and self-replication is estimated to take at least 1.7 × 1018time steps.
Biomimetic Control Based on a Model of Chemotaxis in Escherichia coli
Authors: Tsuji Toshio , Suzuki Michiyo , Takiguchi Noboru , Ohtake Hisao
Published: January 2010

In the field of molecular biology, extending now to the more comprehensive area of systems biology, the development of computer models for synthetic cell simulation has accelerated extensively and has begun to be used for various purposes, such as biochemical analysis. These models, describing the highly efficient environmental searching mechanisms and adaptability of living organisms, can be used as machine-control algorithms in the field of systems engineering. To realize this biomimetic intelligent control, we require a stripped-down model that expresses a series of information-processing tasks from stimulation input to movement. Here we selected the bacterium Escherichia coli as a target organism because it has a relatively simple molecular and organizational structure, which can be characterized using biochemical and genetic analyses. We particularly focused on a motility response known as chemotaxis and developed a computer model that includes not only intracellular information processing but also motor control. After confirming the effectiveness and validity of the proposed model by a series of computer simulations, we applied it to a mobile robot control problem. This is probably the first study showing that a bacterial model can be used as an autonomous control algorithm. Our results suggest that many excellent models proposed thus far for biochemical purposes can be applied to problems in other fields.
Measuring Autonomy and Emergence via Granger Causality
Authors: Seth Anil K.
Published: January 2010

Concepts of emergence and autonomy are central to artificial life and related cognitive and behavioral sciences. However, quantitative and easy-to-apply measures of these phenomena are mostly lacking. Here, I describe quantitative and practicable measures for both autonomy and emergence, based on the framework of multivariate autoregression and specifically Granger causality. G-autonomy measures the extent to which the knowing the past of a variable helps predict its future, as compared to predictions based on past states of external (environmental) variables. G-emergence measures the extent to which a process is both dependent upon and autonomous from its underlying causal factors. These measures are validated by application to agent-based models of predation (for autonomy) and flocking (for emergence). In the former, evolutionary adaptation enhances autonomy; the latter model illustrates not only emergence but also downward causation. I end with a discussion of relations among autonomy, emergence, and consciousness.
Hispanic Pentecostals in a Canadian Anglo-Franco Environment
Authors: Fontalvo Luis C.
Published: January 2010

EDITOR'S NOTE: Luis C. Fontalvo, a Colombian, began to preach in his home-land, but several years ago he moved with his family to Canada, and there he found himself in an altogether different cultural, climatological and economic world, to which he had to adapt. Fontalvo, however, in contrast to most preachers who come from the Third to the First World, did not migrate to Canada in the company of fellow Colombian believers nor with the intention of establishing a Spanish-speaking church, but to preach in French to the people of the province of Quebec and in response to what he interpreted as a specific call. His work crystalized into what is now known as the Eglise des Apôtres de Jesus-Christ, with very different and farther-reaching results than he expected. His work and presence in Canada became an experiment that may, or may not, be repeated in another country or under different circumstances. It leaves open the question as to what will happen if and when the church he founded is totally integrated or if migration to Canada ceases in the future. Fontalvo's experience is simply one instance of the many things that are happening in countries like the United States and Canada, and even on European soil, to which Latin American Pentecostals arrive silently, learn to live many times surreptitiously or anonymously in the country of their choice, and do what is most natural to them: Share the gospel. The results may not be exactly what the preacher expected, they may be as new as a "hybrid" church, as it happened to Montalvo. These hybrid churches may well become the trend of the future in some of the First World cities. Although Montalvo does not say so, the implicit lesson is that the preacher is the key to success and has to begin by becoming a polyglot and not simply the monolingual head of the operation who thinks that one language is enough either for the preacher or for a situation as that described in this article.
The Interaction of Christology & Pneumatology in the Soteriology of Edward Irving
Authors: Purves Jim
Published: January 2010

In this article we will examine the interaction of Christological and Pneumatological models present in the soteriology of Edward Irving. We begin by looking at the general context of Irving's theological development and presentation, then go on to compare Irving's Trinitarian, ontological perspective to the more recent and better known approach of Karl Barth.
The Spirit Baptism, Nineteenth Century Roots
Authors: Wessels Roland
Published: January 2010

Pentecostals claim that there is a life transforming and empowering experience subsequent to conversion, called the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, (The prepositions "in" and "with" are also used. Often it is now being designated "the Spirit baptism") with the accompanying sign of tongues (glossolalia) which all Christians may and ought to receive, and that this experience opens the door to receiving the gifts of the Spirit. What were its roots in Nineteenth Century North American Evangelical Christianity? My purpose is to join in the discussion of how this particular doctrine of the Spirit baptism developed.1 I shall briefly describe a variety of understandings of the Spirit's outpouring found among these Evangelicals and then deal carefully with that complex of interpretations which prepared for the Pentecostal perspective.
The Theological Challenge of Charismatic Spirituality
Authors: Gelpi Donald L.
Published: January 2010

In 1992 the Catholic Charismatic Renewal is celebrating its twenty-fifth anniversary. In the course of those twenty-five years the Renewal has influenced thousands of lives in this country and has become an international movement in Christian spirituality. After a quarter of a century of charismatic spirituality, we would do well to take stock of its theological significance: both its contributions and the problems it has raised. My remarks on those contributions and problems fall into four sections. The first section attempts to reflect on the theological context within which the charismatic renewal originally occurred. The second section considers the initial theological impact that the renewal had on popular faith and the initial response it provoked in the academic community. The third section deals with some of the theological insights that have emerged from reflection on the renewal. The fourth section deals with the charismatic renewal's unfilled theological promise.
Azusa and Other Myths: The Long and Winding Road from Experience to Stated Belief and Back Again
Authors: Plüss Jean-Daniel
Published: January 2010

Those must have been marvelous days, when signs and wonders were accompanying the early days of the Pentecostal revival at the beginning of this century. The more Pentecostals search the roots of their movement, the more evidence is found that a charismatic spirituality lies at the heart of the Pentecostal phenomenon that has brought an impulse of renewal to twentieth-century Christianity. I believe that Pentecostals need to learn to appreciate their past metaphorically in order to recover and incorporate that early charismatic spirituality into today's Christian experience. Spiritual thirst today will not be quenched by mere deductive propositions and statements of doctrine. In order to illustrate my point, I invite you first to look at the concept of "initial evidence" as it has been discussed in the recent book edited by Gary B. McGee.1 In a second step, I will illustrate the difficulties arising from a conceptualization, or should I say objectivization, of such a phenomenon. Then, I will suggest reasons and provide tools that encourage believers of today to find their way back to the roots and the early spirituality of Pentecostalism, without, at the same time, rejecting some of the information and interpretive understandings that Pentecostals have gathered from a critical, analytical approach. It is a journey from the marvelous memories of early Pentecostalism, to hypothetic-deductive procedures, and back to a mythic consciousness of God's Spirit working among God's people today.
Common Witness Between Catholics and Pentecostals1
Authors: Hollenweger Walter J.
Published: January 2010

For many years, Christians in the Pentecostal and Catholic traditions have been involved in a kind of border war, complete with territory disputes and border skirmishes. As we approach the Third Millennium, the time is now right for a declaration of truce, for constructive engagement, and-as the title of this essay suggests-the discovery of a "common witness." But upon what basis can a peace be established? On the basis of a shared sense of ecclesiastical authority, on a shared personal and corporate history, or on shared perspectives about theology and piety? It is the position of this essay that the one viable course of action is the last of these three options. The border fights have been over the first two, and because of them we have come to think of the border between Catholics and Pentecostals as a kind of no man's land. But on the basis of the third another course of action opens up; by the grace of God what has been a no man's land may become common ground. We actually have much more in common than we have allowed ourselves to think.
Early Pentecostals and the Almost Chosen People
Authors: Wacker Grant
Published: January 2010

Since time immemorial, it seems, Christians have struggled with the claims of loyalty to the civil state. For every Roger Williams who insisted that the Christian's allegiances stood above and beyond the state, there was a John Cotton who insisted with equal conviction that the Christian must negotiate between the City of God and the City of Man. As biblical and cultural primitivists, early Pentecostals instinctively identified with the former outlook. Their first thought in the morning was to free themselves from all earthly alliances, including emotional attachments, to the state. But by noon they found that their aspiration to shed mundane political ties was easier claimed than achieved. The sheer complication of getting through life without making endless accommodations to the demands of the civil realm proved more daunting than they had imagined. By nightfall many, perhaps most, realized that political purity was a lost cause to begin with. Conscience told them not to avoid the state but to find ways to live with it in good faith. They discovered, as historian R. Laurence Moore said in a different context, that "[m]eaningful activity in history usually involve[d] exchanging one dilemma for another."1
Fin de siécle and the development of a post-secular religion: intimations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission
Authors: du Toit C.W.
Published: January 2010

This article discusses the continued existence and characteristics of religion in a post-secular society and its influences on this society. The religious world is not a-secular and the secular world not a-religious. Attention is given to reasons that the secularisation thesis has not been realised and the role of modernism and pluralism in this development is discussed. Reference is made to the notion of a people's religion and the role of post-secularism in theology and postmodernism are discussed. The new South African context, in which a neutral state which does not promote any specific religion has replaced the previous Christian state, is discussed. Reference is made to the way African traditional religion fits into a post-secular environment. The argument closes with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as an example of how the religious and secular interact.
Christian ethics in a pluralistic society: towards a theology of compromise
Authors: Hartin P.J.
Published: January 2010

This study aims at examining the way a Christian views hislher ethical values within the context of a postmodern society characterised by a plurality of moralities and religious convictions. This investigation begins with a look at the New Testament traditions with a view to inquiring whether there is such a thing as one 'Christian ethical system' that emerges from these texts which can be used as a ready-made formula for how one is to live in every given situation. The answer will be in the negative. Instead, it will show that ethics always operate in a challenging way. With this perspective in mind attention will be devoted to examining the Christian attitude toward the state and a pluralistic society. How does the Christian remain true to his/her ethical values in a pluralistic society? How do Christians interact with those who see things totally differently from themselves?
Nagarjuna Text and intertext
Authors: Ie Roux Charl
Published: January 2010

This article tracks further the deconstructive path of thought of the Buddhist thinker Nagarjuna as reflected in his major text, the MŪtamadhyamakakrika. This text, inspired by Prajnaparamita intertexts, aims mainly at the deconstruction of earlier Abhidharma metaphysics.
What happened to the ark?
Authors: van Dyk P.J. , Enstrom P.L.
Published: January 2010

The disappearance of the Ark of the Covenant has captured the imagination of many eager scholars of the Old Testament. Because no definite mention of the Ark's destruction has been recorded, it is only natural that man would wish to solve the mystery. Various documented attempts have been made by people such as Parker and Crotser to find the Ark. The Mount Nebo saga, Irish tradition and Ethiopian legend all deal with the possible survival of the Ark. On the whole these stories each played a role to legitimise the nation in which they occurred. However, at this stage it is not clear if the Ark has really survived through all these centuries.
A Catholic voice against British imperialism: F C Kolbe's opposition to the Second Anglo-Boer War
Authors: Hale F.
Published: January 2010

Many aspects of the remarkable career of the intellectually inclined Roman Catholic priest FC Kolbe of Cape Town have been documented, but little has been published about his opposition to British imperialism during the Second Anglo-Boer War. Particularly in his capacity as the founding editor of the South African Catholic Magazine he sought to influence popular opinion both before and after the eruption of hostilities in October 1899. The present article focuses on the expression of his position in that journal and compares Kolbe's stance with those taken by the editors of certain other religious periodicals and the secular press in the Cape. Also considered is Kolbe's involvement in the editing of Albert Cartwright's anti-war newspaper The South African News, especially his opposition to martial law. The secular reasons for Kolbe's objections to the war are evident; the theological, meta-ethical underpinnings are only obliquely implied in his discourses.
The 'literariness' of the New Testament Gospels
Authors: De Klerk Johannes C
Published: January 2010

The literary approach to narratives of the New Testament has now been established. However, there are some very interesting literary issues on which we can now reflect. Do the Gospels comply with genuine literary standards? Are they really suited to full-scale literary analysis? What distinguishes a 'literary' text from a 'non-literary' text? How important is the 'literariness' of biblical narratives? Isn't the value of the literary analysis of biblical texts overestimated? Doesn't it go against the grain of the whole nature of biblical texts? This article endeavours to provide some answers to these issues, focusing on the New Testament texts.