bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zona Occludens-2 Inhibits Cyclin D1 Expression and Cell Proliferation and Exhibits Changes in Localization along the Cell Cycle
Authors: Tapia Rocio , Huerta Miriam , Islas Socorro , Avila-Flores Antonia , Lopez-Bayghen Esther , Weiske Jörg , Huber Otmar , González-Mariscal Lorenza
Published: December 2008

Here, we have studied the effect of the tight junction protein zona occludens (ZO)-2 on cyclin D1 (CD1) protein expression. CD1 is essential for cell progression through the G1 phase of the cell cycle. We have found that in cultures of synchronized Madin-Darby canine kidney cells, ZO-2 inhibits cell proliferation at G0/G1 and decreases CD1 protein level. These effects occur in response to a diminished CD1 translation and an augmented CD1 degradation at the proteosome triggered by ZO-2. ZO-2 overexpression decreases the amount of Glycogen synthase kinase-3β phosphorylated at Ser9 and represses β-catenin target gene expression. We have also explored the expression of ZO-2 through the cell cycle and demonstrate that ZO-2 enters the nucleus at the late G1 phase and leaves the nucleus when the cell is in mitosis. These results thus explain why in confluent quiescent epithelia ZO-2 is absent from the nucleus and localizes at the cellular borders, whereas in sparse proliferating cultures ZO-2 is conspicuously present at the nucleus.
Pathotypes of Colletotrichum capsici, the Causal Agent of Chili Anthracnose, in Thailand
Authors: Montri P. , Taylor P. W. J. , Mongkolporn O.
Published: December 2008

Eleven isolates of Colletotrichum capsici were screened on nine chili genotypes derived from four cultivated species of Capsicum: Capsicum annuum, C. baccatum, C. chinense, and C. frutescens. Host reactions were assessed 9 days after inoculation by microinjection of spores into the pericarp of red fruit. A set of disease scales, with 0 to 9 scores, were developed for anthracnose infection of each Capsicum sp. based on percent lesion size in relation to fruit size, appearance of necrotic or water-soaked tissue, and presence of acervuli. Three pathotypes, PCc1, PCc2, and PCc3, were identified according to differential qualitative infection of fruit of C. chinense genotypes PBC932 and C04714. PCc1 was the most virulent pathotype, infecting all genotypes of C. annuum, C. chinense, and C. frutescens, whereas PCc3 was the least virulent pathotype, infecting only the genotypes C. annuum and C. frutescens. Quantitative infection occurred in all chili genotypes except for genotypes of C. baccatum, where no infection occurred, demonstrating various levels of aggressiveness of isolates within pathotypes.
Powerful mutators lurking in the genome
Authors: Petit Vincent , Vartanian Jean-Pierre , Wain-Hobson Simon
Published: November 2008

The human genome encodes numerous enzymes capable of deaminating polynucleotides. While they are capable of exquisite specificity, occasionally they result in hypermutation where up to 90 per cent of cytidine or adenosine residues may be edited. As such, they constitute a formidable anti-viral barrier, for no virus can survive such a high mutation rate. As the APOBEC3 group of cytidine deaminases edit single-stranded viral DNA, the crucial question is can they hyperedit chromosomal DNA? Everything points to a positive answer. Nonetheless, hypermutants
per se
have not yet been described, probably being countered by highly efficient mismatch repair. For the APOBEC3 genes, not only is their physiological function unknown, but also their role in the induction of cancer remains to be determined. Yet given the pace of research, all this is certain to change in the next few years.
A strategic approach to managing a downturn
Authors: Goodridge Mark
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine how organizations can not only survive the effects of a downturn by taking a strategic approach, but also use this opportunity to emerge from uncertain times leaner, fitter and better able to adapt to new market conditions. The paper includes contributions from Mark Goodridge, CEO, Louise Earle, Jane‐Catherine Hartshorn, Martyn Sakol and Mike Thackray, all at ER Consultants, which specializes in organization behavior change.

Design/methodology/approach

Thie paper draws on research and the experience of ER Consultants in the field to examine how organizations can successfully deal with a downturn and positively approach a reorganization situation.

Findings

The secret is not to fall into the trap of knee‐jerk reorganization. Reorganization can be a wonderful way of creating an illusion of progress while producing only confusion, inefficiency and demoralization. This is not to deny that change is sometimes necessary – it is just that organizations need to be strategic and choose the right architecture. Successful reorganizations require trust that is built on respect and timely communication, as well as energized leaders and strategic responses that eliminate actions based on panic. Successful high performance organizations get through tough times by avoiding laying people off, cutting funding or reducing investment in core parts of the business unless it is absolutely necessary. Instead they are innovative about retaining talent in order to gain competitive advantage when market conditions improve and create an energizing environment.

Originality/value

In a credit crunch environment it can be all too easy for external factors and concerns to drain the positive energy that forms the powerhouse of a successful organization. As recent research has demonstrated, leadership energy can be directly linked to customer satisfaction, absenteeism, turnover, employee energy levels and, therefore, bottom‐line results. The ability to boost energy in the workplace provides significant competitive advantage by helping to retain and motivate staff.
Principles for successful aCRM in organizations
Authors: Ranjan Jayanthi , Bhatnagar Vishal
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose the important principles for successful CRM analytics (aCRM) in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs the approach of identifying the major critical business information needed for aCRM in organizations. The approach to identify the critical business is based on the cross‐pollination of information related to aCRM. Analyzing aCRM from the hybrid blends of business sources provides a clear understanding in a more realist dimension.

Findings

The paper finds that knowing what to capture is fundamental to business alignment of aCRM in a typical business environment.

Practical implications

The successful implementation of the principles of aCRM will help organizations to measure the effectiveness of their direct marketing activities.

Originality/value

The chosen research strategy was to survey aCRM in organizations that are being incorporated worldwide and analyze their content, looking for similarities and complementarities in their nature of business strategies. First, the paper identified existing aCRM systems, examining available listings of aCRM systems in organizations, and expanding them through Internet searches. The paper then collected detailed information on aCRM systems, and examined the descriptions, nature of organizations, their business strategies, their view on business values etc.
Determinants of EFL achievement among Arab college‐bound learners
Authors: Ghaith Ghazi , Diab Hassan
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the degree of interrelatedness and the role of a number of context‐specific factors in the English language proficiency development of Arab college‐bound learners. These factors include: language class risk‐taking, sociability, discomfort, motivation, and attitude toward class.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a one‐group pretest‐posttest experimental design. In total, 67 (n=67) male English as a foreign language college‐bound learners participated in the study. All participants took general English language proficiency pretests and posttests in order to determine the effect size of improvement in their language proficiency after an intensive treatment of 200 contact hours. The calculated effect sizes of improvement were correlated with learners' scores on the factors under study as measured by a modified version of the Ely classroom climate measure. In addition, Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficients were computed and a step‐wise multiple regression analysis was run in order to determine the degree of interrelatedness among the variables under study and to determine their extent of their role in the effect size of the proficiency gains of the participants.

Findings

The findings indicated that language class sociability is positively related to students' motivation to learn and to a positive class attitude. Conversely, language class risk‐taking was found to be negatively related to class discomfort which in turn was negatively related to student motivation to learn. The findings also indicated that none of the affective variables under study predicted the effect size of the proficiency gains realized by learners.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study suggest that language acquisition is a complex process determined by interaction among a number of learner‐related and contextual factors. Furthermore, the findings suggest that motivation for learning is related to learners' affective feelings and may impact their class participation. A limitation of the study is that it employed a one‐group experimental design and, as such, there was no control or comparison group.

Practical implications

Using humanistic/affective methods of teaching could decrease students' feelings of class discomfort and increase their motivation and class sociability.

Originality/value

The study provides insights into the language acquisition process of Arab college‐bound learners based on empirical evidence.
PCR and DNA sequencing in establishing the aetiology of bacterial infections in children
Authors: GLEESEN ANN SOFIE , GRARUP CECILIE , DARGIS RIMTAS , ANDRESEN KELD , CHRISTENSEN JENS JØRGEN , KEMP MICHAEL
Published: December 2008

The results of partial polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification of the bacterial 16S rRNA gene and subsequent DNA sequencing of clinical samples from children are described. In 13 out of 62 samples, DNA from bacteria likely to be the cause of infection was identified. In the vast majority (11/13) of samples with significant pathogen culture the specimen had been negative. Antibiotics had been given in all cases except for three prior to sampling. PCR and subsequent DNA sequencing is a valuable supplementary tool for establishing the cause of bacterial infections in children when culture is negative.
Maternal Epstein‐Barr virus and cytomegalovirus infections and risk of testicular cancer in the offspring: a nested case‐control study
Authors: HOLL KATSIARYNA , SURCEL HELJA‐MARJA , KOSKELA PENTTI , DILLNER JOAKIM , HALLMANS GÖRAN , WADELL GÖRAN , KAASILA MARJO , OLAFSDOTTIR GUDRIDUR H. , ÖGMUNDSDOTTIR HELGA M. , PUKKALA EERO , STATTIN PÄR , LEHTINEN MATTI
Published: December 2008

During recent decades the incidence of testicular cancer (TC) has increased rapidly around the world. Associated exogenous etiological factors might therefore be identifiable. We performed a case‐control study nested within Finnish, Swedish and Icelandic maternity cohorts exploiting early pregnancy serum samples to evaluate the role of congenital or neonatal infections with Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) as risk factors of TC in the offspring. For each case‐index mother pair, three or four matched control‐control mother pairs were identified using national population registries. First trimester sera were retrieved from the index mothers of 66 TC cases and 258 matched control mothers, and were tested for antibodies to EBV and CMV. High level of maternal EBV IgG antibodies was associated with significantly increased risk of TC in the offspring (odds ratio (OR), 2.50; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.15, 5.40), especially with risk of non‐seminoma TC (OR, 2.73; 95% CI, 1.25, 5.99) and non‐seminoma TC diagnosed under 8 years of age (OR, 2.72; 95% CI, 1.05, 7.04). In contrast, offspring of CMV IgG‐seropositive mothers had a decreased risk of TC diagnosed under 8 years of age (OR, 0.35; 95% CI, 0.14, 0.89). Our results suggest that EBV and CMV infections may be associated with TC.
Characteristics of Sarcoplasmic Proteins and Their Interaction with Surimi and Kamaboko Gel
Authors: Jafarpour A. , Gorczyca E.M.
Published: December 2008

ABSTRACT:  This study examined the effect of adding common carp sarcoplasmic proteins (Sp‐ P) on the gel characteristics of threadfin bream surimi and kamaboko while maintaining constant moisture and myofibrillar levels. Based on the temperature sweep test, which is involved in heating of surimi gel from 10 to 80 °C to monitor the viscoelastic properties, at temperature range of 40 to 50 °C, the decrease level (depth of valley) in storage modulus (G′) thermograph was in proportion to the concentration of added Sp‐ P. Storage modulus (G′) showed greater elasticity after adding Sp‐ P compared with the control without Sp‐ P. Furthermore, the breaking force and distance and consequently gel strength of the resultant kamaboko were improved significantly (P > 0.05). Thus, added Sp‐ P did not interfere with myofibrillar proteins during sol–gel transition phase but associated with textural quality enhancement of resultant kamaboko; however, addition of Sp‐ P from the dark muscle of the carp decreased the whiteness of the resultant surimi. Furthermore, according to the SEM micrographs, the gel strength could not be associated with either the number of polygonal structures/mm2 or the area of the polygonal structures in the kamaboko gel microstructure.
Public services performance
Authors: Sibieta Luke , Simpson Helen
Published: December 2008

Spending on public services in the UK – notably health and education – has risen strongly since 2000. But assessing what this has delivered is not straightforward. This article discusses difficulties in measuring the output of public sector services and provides evidence on recent trends in the output and productivity of the health and education sectors.
It's not technical progress: empirical TFP determination and structural change
Authors: Eberhardt Markus
Published: December 2008

The process of economic growth is inseparable from the process of structural change. This paper examines the problem of measuring technological progress and structural change in the growth accounting literature. It uses a simple computation exercise to illustrate how dual economy considerations increase the difficulties associated with measuring technological change.
To breathe or not to breathe? That is the question
Authors: Spyer K. Michael
Published: November 2008

Our understanding of the role of the brain in respiratory rhythm generation and regulation began the early nineteenth century. Over the next 150 years the neuronal groups in the medulla oblongata and pons that were involved in eupnoea and in gasping were identified by techniques involving the lesioning of areas of the lower brainstem, several transections across the brainstem and focal electrical stimulation. An incomplete picture emerged that stressed the importance of the ventral medulla. Subsequent electrophysiological studies inin vivo,in situandin vitropreparations have revealed the importance of restricted groups of neurones in this area, within the Bötzinger and pre‐Bötzinger nuclei, that are the essential kernel for rhythm generation. The outputs to the spinal motoneurones responsible for the patterning of inspiratory and expiratory discharge are shaped by inputs from these neurones and others within the respiratory complex that determine the activity of respiratory bulbospinal neurones. It is clear that the developmental stage of the preparation is often critical for the pattern of respiratory activity that is generated and that these patterns have important physiological consequences. The models that are currently considered to explain rhythmogenesis are critically evaluated. The respiratory network is subject to regulation from peripheral and central chemoreceptors, amongst other afferent inputs, which act to ensure respiratory homeostasis. The roles of peripheral chemoreceptors as primarily O2sensors are considered, and the evolution of ideas surrounding their roles is described. New insights into the transduction mechanisms of chemoreception in the carotid body and chemosensitive areas of the ventral medullary surface, specifically in monitoring CO2levels, are reviewed. As new experimental tools, both genetic and cellular, are emerging, it can be expected that the detailed network architecture and synaptic interactions that pattern respiratory activity in relation to behavioural activity will be revealed over the next years.
Human endothelial function and microvascular ageing
Authors: Gates Phillip E. , Strain W. David , Shore Angela C.
Published: November 2008

Age is a primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and this is an increasingly important public health concern because of an increase in the absolute number and proportion of the population at an older age in many countries. A key component of cardiovascular ageing is reduced function of the vascular endothelium, and this probably contributes to the impaired microvessel function observed with ageing in multiple vascular beds. In turn, impaired microvessel function is thought to contribute to the pathophysiology of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Here we review evidence that the first signs of altered endothelial and microvessel function can appear in childhood and at all stages of the human lifespan; low‐birth‐weight babies have reduced endothelial function in skin microvessels at 3 months, and by age 10 years their brachial artery endothelial function is reduced in comparison with normal‐birth‐weight babies. In overweight/obese adolescent children with clustering of traditional cardiovascular disease risk factors, endothelial function is reduced compared with normal‐weight children, and this appears to persist into early adulthood. Adult ageing is associated with impaired microvessel endothelial function and an increase in capillary blood pressure. Biological and lifestyle factors that influence microvessel function include body fat and visceral adiposity, sex hormone status, diet and physical activity. The mechanisms underlying age‐associated changes in microvessel function are uncertain but may involve alterations in nitric oxide, prostanoid, endothelium‐derived hyperpolarizing factor(s) and endothelin‐1 pathways.
Ultrasonic Measurement of Rolling Bearing Lubrication Using Piezoelectric Thin Films
Authors: Drinkwater Bruce W. , Zhang Jie , Kirk Katherine J. , Elgoyhen Jocelyn , Dwyer-Joyce Rob S.
Published: December 2008

This paper describes the measurement of lubricant-film thickness in a rolling element bearing using a piezoelectric thin film transducer to excite and receive ultrasonic signals. High frequency (200 MHz) ultrasound is generated using a piezoelectric aluminum nitride film deposited in the form of a very thin layer onto the outer bearing raceway. This creates a transducer and electrode combination of total thickness of less than 10 μm. In this way the bearing is instrumented with minimal disruption to the housing geometry and the oil-film can be measured noninvasively. The high frequency transducer generates a fine columnar beam of ultrasound that has dimensions less than the typical lubricated contact ellipse. The reflection coefficient from the lubricant-layer is then measured from within the lubricated contact and the oil-film thickness extracted via a quasistatic spring model. The results are described on a deep groove 6016 ball bearing supporting an 80 mm shaft under normal operating conditions. Good agreement is shown over a range of loads and speeds with lubricant-film thickness extracted from elastohydrodynamic lubrication theory.
Evaluation of a commercial biologically based IMRT treatment planning system
Authors: Semenenko Vladimir A. , Reitz Bodo , Day Ellen , Qi X. Sharon , Miften Moyed , Li X. Allen
Published: December 2008

A new inverse treatment planning system (TPS) for external beam radiation therapy with high energy photons is commercially available that utilizes both dose‐volume‐based cost functions and a selection of cost functions which are based on biological models. The purpose of this work is to evaluate quality of intensity‐modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) plans resulting from the use of biological cost functions in comparison to plans designed using a traditional TPS employing dose‐volume‐based optimization. Treatment planning was performed independently at two institutions. For six cancer patients, including head and neck (one case from each institution), prostate, brain, liver, and rectal cases, segmental multileaf collimator IMRT plans were designed using biological cost functions and compared with clinically used dose‐based plans for the same patients. Dose‐volume histograms and dosimetric indices, such as minimum, maximum, and mean dose, were extracted and compared between the two types of treatment plans. Comparisons of the generalized equivalent uniform dose (EUD), a previously proposed plan quality index , target conformity and heterogeneity indices, and the number of segments and monitor units were also performed. The most prominent feature of the biologically based plans was better sparing of organs at risk (OARs). When all plans from both institutions were combined, the biologically based plans resulted in smaller EUD values for 26 out of 33 OARs by an average of (range ). Owing to more efficient beam segmentation and leaf sequencing tools implemented in the biologically based TPS compared to the dose‐based TPS, an estimated treatment delivery time was shorter in most (five out of six) cases with some plans showing up to 50% reduction. The biologically based plans were generally characterized by a smaller conformity index, but greater heterogeneity index compared to the dose‐based plans. Overall, compared to plans based on dose‐volume optimization, plans with equivalent target coverage obtained using the biologically based TPS demonstrate improved dose distributions for the majority of normal structures.
Introduction to Health Physics: Fourth Edition
Authors: Alaei Parham
Published: December 2008

Introduction to Health Physics: Fourth Edition Cember Herman and Johnson Thomas E. McGraw Hill Companies, Inc., New York, NY, 2008. Paperback 864 pp. Price: $69.95. ISBN: 9780071423083.
Human Papillomavirus E7 Protein Deregulates Mitosis via an Association with Nuclear Mitotic Apparatus Protein 1
Authors: Nguyen Christine L. , Münger Karl
Published: December 2008

We previously observed that high-risk human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) E7 expression leads to the delocalization of dynein from mitotic spindles (C. L. Nguyen, M. E. McLaughlin-Drubin, and K. Munger, Cancer Res. 68:8715-8722, 2008). Here, we show that HPV16 E7 associates with nuclear mitotic apparatus protein 1 (NuMA) and that NuMA binding and the ability to induce dynein delocalization map to similar carboxyl-terminal sequences of E7. Additionally, we show that the delocalization of dynein from mitotic spindles by HPV16 E7 and the interaction between HPV16 E7 and NuMA correlate with the induction of defects in chromosome alignment during prometaphase even in cells with normal centrosome numbers. Furthermore, low-risk HPV6b and HPV11 E7s also associate with NuMA and also induce a similar mitotic defect. It is possible that the disruption of mitotic events by HPV E7, via targeting of the NuMA/dynein complex and potentially other NuMA-containing complexes, contributes to viral maintenance and propagation potentially through abrogating the differentiation program of the infected epithelium. Furthermore, in concert with activities specific to high-risk HPV E6 and E7, such as the inactivation of the p53 and pRB tumor suppressors, respectively, the disruption of the NuMA/dynein network may result in mitotic errors that would make an infected cell more prone to the accumulation of aneuploidy even in the absence of supernumerary centrosomes.
Variants within theMMP3gene are associated with Achilles tendinopathy: possible interaction with theCOL5A1gene
Authors: Raleigh S M , van der Merwe L , Ribbans W J , Smith R K W , Schwellnus M P , Collins M
Published: November 2008

Objectives:

Sequence variation within theCOL5A1andTNCgenes are known to associate with Achilles tendinopathy. The primary aim of this case-control genetic association study was to investigate whether variants within the matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) gene also contributed to both Achilles tendinopathy and Achilles tendon rupture in a Caucasian population. A secondary aim was to establish whether variants within theMMP3gene interacted with theCOL5A1rs12722 variant to raise risk of these pathologies.

Methods:

114 subjects with symptoms of Achilles tendon pathology and 98 healthy controls were genotyped forMMP3variants rs679620, rs591058 and rs650108.

Results:

As single markers, significant associations were found between the GG genotype of rs679620 (OR = 2.5, 95% CI 1.2 to 4.90, p = 0.010), the CC genotype of rs591058 (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.1 to 4.50, p = 0.023) and the AA genotype of rs650108 (OR = 4.9, 95% CI 1.0 to 24.1, p = 0.043) and risk of Achilles tendinopathy. The ATG haplotype (rs679620, rs591058, and rs650108) was under-represented in the tendinopathy group when compared to the control group (41% vs 53%, p = 0.038). Finally, the G allele of rs679620 and the T allele ofCOL5A1rs12722 significantly interacted to raise risk of AT (p = 0.006). No associations were found between any of theMMP3markers and Achilles tendon rupture.

Conclusion:

Variants within theMMP3gene are associated with Achilles tendinopathy. Furthermore, theMMP3gene variant rs679620 and theCOL5A1marker rs12722 interact to modify the risk of tendinopathy. These data further support a genetic contribution to a common sports related injury.
3D DECONVOLUTION OF VIBRATION CORRUPTED HYPERSPECTRAL IMAGES
Authors: WEBSTER A. H. , DAVENPORT M. R. , ARDOUIN J.-P.
Published: December 2008

We have developed a hyperspectral deconvolution algorithm that sharpens the spectral dimension in addition to the more usual across-track and along-track dimensions. Using an individual three-dimensional model for each pixel's point spread function, the algorithm iteratively applies maximum likelihood criteria to reveal previously hidden features in the spatial and spectral dimensions. Of necessity, our solution is adaptive to unreported across-track and along-track vibrations with amplitudes smaller than the ground sampling distance. We sense and correct these vibrations using a combination of maximum likelihood deconvolution and gradient descent registration that maximizes statistical correlations over many bands. Test panels in real hyperspectral imagery show significant improvement when locations are corrected. Tests on simulated imagery show that the precision of relative corrected positions improves by about a factor of two.
A retrospective on software component quality models
Authors: Kalaimagal Sivamuni , Srinivasan Rengaramanujam
Published: December 2008

The academic and commercial sectors have shown an interest in Component Based Software Development (CBSD) because devel-oping and using various component forms as building blocks can significantly enhance software based system development and use. The perspective of reduced development costs and shorter life-cycles acts as a motivation for this interest. The idea is to create high quality parts and join them together to form a functioning system. One of the most critical processes in CBSD is the selection of appropriate COTS components that meet the user?s require-ments. An important step in the component selection process is the evaluation of components using quality models. Current compo-nent selection approaches try to propose appropriate quality mod-els for the effective assessment of such components. These proposals attempt to define quality characteristics, attributes, and metrics which are specific to the particular nature of components and CBSD. This paper presents a retrospective on the current quality models proposed and are available for the evaluation of software components.
Community Psychology: Individuals and Interventions in Community Context
Authors: Trickett Edison J.
Published: November 2008

Community psychology has historically focused on understanding individual behavior in sociocultural context, assessing high-impact contexts, and working in and with communities to improve their resources and influence over their futures. This review adopts an ecological perspective on recent developments in the field, beginning with philosophy of science and progressing through a series of substantive research and intervention domains that characterize current work. These domains include research on the ecology of lives, the assessment of social settings and their impact on behavior, culture and diversity as expressed in the community research process, and community intervention.
Political Ideology: Its Structure, Functions, and Elective Affinities
Authors: Jost John T. , Federico Christopher M. , Napier Jaime L.
Published: November 2008

Ideology has re-emerged as an important topic of inquiry among social, personality, and political psychologists. In this review, we examine recent theory and research concerning the structure, contents, and functions of ideological belief systems. We begin by defining the construct and placing it in historical and philosophical context. We then examine different perspectives on how many (and what types of) dimensions individuals use to organize their political opinions. We investigate (a) how and to what extent individuals acquire the discursive contents associated with various ideologies, and (b) the social-psychological functions that these ideologies serve for those who adopt them. Our review highlights “elective affinities” between situational and dispositional needs of individuals and groups and the structure and contents of specific ideologies. Finally, we consider the consequences of ideology, especially with respect to attitudes, evaluations, and processes of system justification.
Personality: The Universal and the Culturally Specific
Authors: Heine Steven J. , Buchtel Emma E.
Published: November 2008

There appears to be a universal desire to understand individual differences. This common desire exhibits both universal and culturally specific features. Motivations to view oneself positively differ substantially across cultural contexts, as do a number of other variables that covary with this motivation (i.e., approach-avoidance motivations, internal-external frames of reference, independent-interdependent views of self, incremental-entity theories of abilities, dialectical self-views, and relational mobility). The structure of personality traits, particularly the five-factor model of personality, emerges quite consistently across cultures, with some key variations noted when the structure is drawn from indigenous traits in other languages. The extent to which each of the Big 5 traits is endorsed in each culture varies considerably, although we note some methodological challenges with comparing personality traits across cultures. Finally, although people everywhere can conceive of each other in terms of personality traits, people in collectivistic cultures appear to rely on traits to a lesser degree when understanding themselves and others, compared with those from individualistic cultures.
Deletion of SM-B, the high ATPase isoform of myosin, upregulates the PKC-mediated signal transduction pathway in murine urinary bladder smooth muscle
Authors: Hypolite Joseph A. , Chang Shaohua , LaBelle Edward , Babu Gopal J. , Periasamy Muthu , Wein Alan J. , Chacko Samuel
Published: December 2008

Detrusor smooth muscle (DSM) hypertrophy induced by partial bladder outlet obstruction (PBOO) is associated with changes in the NH2-terminal myosin heavy chain isoform from predominantly SM-B to SM-A, alteration in the Ca2+sensitization pathway, and the contractile characteristics from phasic to tonic in rabbits. We utilized the SM-B knockout (KO) mouse to determine whether a shift from SM-B to SM-A without PBOO is associated with changes in the signal transduction pathway mediated via PKC and CPI-17, which keeps the myosin phosphorylation (MLC20) level high by inhibiting the myosin phosphatase. DSM strips from SM-B KO mice generated more force in response to electrical field stimulation, KCl, carbachol, and phorbol 12,13-dibutyrate than that of age-matched wild-type mice. There was no difference in the ED50for carbachol but the maximum response was greater for the SM-B KO mice. DSM from SM-B KO mice revealed increased mass and hypertrophy. The KO mice also showed an overexpression of PKC-α, increased levels of phospho-CPI-17, and an elevated level of IP3and DAG upon stimulation with carbachol. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis revealed an increased level of MLC20phosphorylation in response to carbachol. Together, these changes may be responsible for the higher level of force generation and maintenance by the DSM from the SM-B KO bladders. In conclusion, our data show that ablation of SM-B is associated with alteration of PKC-mediated signal transduction and CPI-17-mediated Ca2+sensitization pathway that regulate smooth muscle contraction. Interestingly, similar changes are also present in PBOO-induced DSM compensatory response in the rabbit model in which SM-B is downregulated.
Photo‐ and Electrochromic Properties of Activated Reactive Evaporated MoO3 Thin Films Grown on Flexible Substrates
Authors: Krishna K. Hari , Hussain O. M. , Guillen C.
Published: December 2008

The molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) thin films were grown onto ITO‐coated flexible Kapton substrates using plasma assisted activated reactive evaporation technique. The film depositions were carried out at constant glow power and oxygen partial pressures of 8 W and
1 × 10−3 Torr, respectively. The influence of substrate temperature on the microstructural and optical properties was investigated. The
MoO3 thin films prepared at a substrate temperature of 523 K were found to be composed of uniformly distributed nanosized grains with an orthorhombic structure of
α‐MoO3. These nanocrystalline
MoO3 thin films exhibited higher optical transmittance of about 80% in the visible region with an
evaluated optical band gap of 3.29 eV. With the insertion of 12.5 mC/cm2, the films exhibited an optical modulation of 40% in the visible region with coloration efficiency of
22 cm2/C at the wavelength of 550 nm. The
MoO3 films deposited at 523 K demonstrated better photochromic properties and showed highest
color center concentration for the irradiation time of 30 minutes at 100 mW/cm2.
Interleukin-24 overcomes temozolomide resistance and enhances cell death by down-regulation ofO6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase in human melanoma cells
Authors: Zheng Mingzhong , Bocangel Dora , Ramesh Rajagopal , Ekmekcioglu Suhendan , Poindexter Nancy , Grimm Elizabeth A. , Chada Sunil
Published: December 2008

Melanoma is the most malignant of skin cancers, highly resistant to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Temozolomide, a promising new derivative of dacarbazine, is currently being tested for treatment of metastatic melanoma. Resistance to alkylating agents such as temozolomide correlates with increased expression of DNA repair protein O6-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase (MGMT). Interleukin-24 (IL-24; mda-7) is a tumor suppressor cytokine that selectively inhibits tumor cell growth by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in melanoma cell lines and solid tumors. This tumor-selective activity has been observed in multiple preclinical animal models and in clinical trials. In this study, we analyzed the ability of Ad-IL-24 and its protein product, IL-24, to overcome temozolomide resistance in human melanoma cells. We have shown that Ad-IL-24 via exogenous IL-24 protein induces combinatorial synergy of temozolomide-induced cell killing in temozolomide-resistant melanoma cells by inhibition of MGMT. Neutralizing antibodies against IL-24 or its receptors significantly blocked the apoptotic activity of IL-24 + MGMT treatment. We show that accumulation of functional p53 is essential for IL-24-induced down-regulation of MGMT. Using either MGMT small interfering RNA, p53 small interfering RNA, or a p53 dominant-negative mutant to block MGMT protein expression resulted in increased sensitization to temozolomide. However, MGMT blockade in combination with IL-24 + temozolomide resulted in loss of combinatorial synergy, indicating that MGMT expression is required for the reversal of temozolomide resistance in melanoma cells. This study shows that IL-24 can play a significant role in overcoming temozolomide resistance and that the clinical efficacy of temozolomide may be improved by using a biochemotherapy combination with IL-24. [Mol Cancer Ther 2008;7(12):3842–51]
Chronic Stress and Immunosenescence: A Review
Authors: Bauer Moisés Evandro
Published: November 2008

This paper reviews recent work suggesting that human immunosenescence may be closely related to both chronic stress and stress hormones. The age-related immunological changes are also similarly found during chronic stress or glucocorticoid exposure. These data further suggest that endogenous glucocorticoids could be associated with immunosenescence. When compared with young subjects, healthy elders are emotionally distressed in parallel to increased cortisol/dehydroepiandrosterone ratio. Furthermore, chronically stressed elderly subjects may be particularly at risk of stress-related pathology because of further alterations in glucocorticoid-immune signaling. Age-related increase in cortisol/dehydroepiandrosterone ratio could be understood as a major determinant of immunological changes observed during aging. Strictly healthy elders are somewhat protected from chronic stress exposure and show normal cortisol levels and increased T cell function. This information adds a new key dimension to the biology of aging and stress.
Possible New Antiaging Strategies Related to Neuroendocrine-Immune Interactions
Authors: Mocchegiani Eugenio , Malavolta Marco
Published: November 2008

The aging process demonstrates gradual and spontaneous changes, resulting in maturation through childhood, puberty and young adulthood, and then decline through middle and late age. However, animals and humans are capable of reaching the extreme limit of life span characteristic for the species with a very efficient network of antiaging mechanisms. Among them, neuroendocrine-immune interactions play a pivotal role. The loss of the capacity of the organism in remodeling the neuroendocrine-immune response leads to the appearance of age-associated pathologies. We herein report some substances which can be proposed as new antiaging strategies because of their capacity to remodel some biological functions in old animals and humans. These substances are: L-deprenyl, leptin, ghrelin, carnosine and NO donors. Their role as possible antiaging strategies in healthy people in relation to neuroendocrine-immune responses and zinc ion bioavailability is reported and discussed.
Variation Rhythms of Lymphocyte Subsets during Healthy Aging
Authors: Caetano Faria Ana Maria , Monteiro de Moraes Sara , Ferreira de Freitas Ludmila Helene , Speziali Elaine , Figueiredo Soares Taciana , Pretti Figueiredo-Neves Suzane , Vitelli-Avelar Danielle Marquete , Martins Marina Ângela , Bastos Dias Barbosa Kátia Valéria , Basseti Soares Eric , Sathler-Avelar Renato , Peruhype-Magalhães Vanessa , Cardoso Glenda Meira , Comin Fabiano , Teixeira Rosângela , Elói-Santos Silvana Maria , Magalhães Queiroz Dulciene Maria , Corrêa-Oliveira Rodrigo , Bauer Moisés Evandro , Teixeira-Carvalho Andréa , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis
Published: November 2008

Immunological alterations associated with aging (immunosenescence) do not represent a simple unidirectional decline in all functions but develop as a complex remodeling of the immune system, involving multiple reorganization and developmentally regulated changes. In general, most data available about aging were obtained at particular age intervals and most of them come from Caucasian individuals from either Europe or the United States. Here, we report the frequencies of major lymphocyte subsets in healthy Brazilian individuals from 2 distinct geographic regions (Southeast and South) at several age intervals spanning a lifetime period (0–86 years). Overall, we demonstrated that changes in the frequencies of cells related to both innate and adaptive immunity clearly occur with aging in these individuals. These changes were not progressive and equally steady for all cell populations tested but instead showed an oscillatory or rhythmic behavior that was distinctive of each population at different age intervals. We also observed that abrupt changes in the frequencies of immune cells may occur in healthy individuals over 75 years old, suggesting there is an impaired flexibility of the immune system at late stages of life to sustain homeostasis via immune mechanisms. We presented reference ranges for healthy Brazilian individuals at all ages. The knowledge of these parameters in further detail will allow interventions to optimize immune function in advanced age and to improve the quality of life in the elderly.
Central Pontine Myelinolysis
Authors: Pearce J.M.S.
Published: November 2008

In 1949, Victor and Adams observed an alcoholic patient who developed quadriplegia and pseudobulbar palsy, and inability to chew, talk or swallow. A post-mortem confirmed their suspicion of ‘a large, symmetrical, essentially demyelinative lesion occupying the greater part of the basis pontis.’ This paper follows the historical evolution of central pontine myelinolysis and the changing concepts of its metabolic aetiology. Too rapid a rate of correction of hyponatraemia is the most common, but not invariable aetiology.
Gliotoxin Inhibits Neointimal Hyperplasia after Vascular Injury in Rats
Authors: Pozo Mayte , Izquierdo María Concepción , de Nicolás Rosario , Egido Jesús , Ortiz Alberto , González-Cabrero Jesús
Published: November 2008

Neointima formation participates in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis and restenosis. Proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) are initial responses to vascular injury. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of gliotoxin, an inhibitor of nuclear factor (NF)-κB, on migration and proliferation of cultured rat VSMC and neointimal formation in injured rat vessels. In cultured VSMC, gliotoxin inhibited the nuclear translocation of the p65 subunit of NF-κB in response to inflammatory stimuli. In addition, gliotoxin inhibited VSMC migration and proliferation in response to platelet-derived growth factor-BB. This was associated with a rapid rearrangement of the F-actin and vimentin cytoskeleton. Furthermore, gliotoxin inhibited endothelial cell nuclear translocation of p65, cell surface expression of adhesion molecules such as VCAM-1, ICAM-1 and E-selectin, and monocytic cell adhesion to a cytokine-activated endothelial monolayer. In the rat carotid artery balloon catheter injury model, the systemic administration of gliotoxin for 10 days decreased neointimal hyperplasia and luminal stenosis by up to 90% and decreased the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen in the vessel wall by up to 70%, depending on the dose. These observations suggest that gliotoxin favorably regulates the response to vascular injury through actions on VSMC. However, further studies evaluating the therapeutic benefit of gliotoxin in restenosis after balloon angioplasty are required.
Transoral Laser Microsurgery for Carcinoma in situ of the Glottic Larynx
Authors: Roedel Ralph M.W. , Christiansen Hans , Mueller Roland M. , Matthias Christoph
Published: November 2008

Background: To investigate long-term results of transoral CO2 laser microresection (TLM) in glottic carcinoma in situ (CIS). Methods: A retrospective study of 34 patients with glottic CIS treated initially with TLM between 1986 and 2004. Median post-operative follow-up time was 62 months. Results: Three- and 5-year local control rates were 97 and 93%, respectively. Four patients developed local recurrence (rTis, rTis, rT1, rT4) that could be salvaged by repeated TLM in all cases. Neither adjuvant radiotherapy nor open partial or total laryngectomy was performed. There was no tumour-related death in this series. Conclusion: TLM can be considered as an effective method in the treatment of glottic CIS not only for the primary therapy, but also in cases of local recurrence.
Inhaled Carbenoxolone Prevents Allergic Airway Inflammation and Airway Hyperreactivity in a Mouse Model of Asthma
Authors: Ram Arjun , Singh Shashi Kant , Singh Vijay Pal , Kumar Sarvesh , Ghosh Balaram
Published: November 2008

Background: Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease, which needs a safer medication preferably in inhalation form. In view of this, we have evaluated the effect of inhaled carbenoxolone (CBX), a herbal-derived compound, on asthma in a mouse model. Methods: Mice were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin (OVA) to develop certain characteristic features of asthma such as airway hyperreactivity (AHR), airway eosinophilia, lung inflammation and mucus hypersecretion. To evaluate the effect of CBX on the above asthmatic features, CBX (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/ml, 3 ml) or vehicle (water) was given by inhalation. AHR was determined using whole-body plethysmography. Infiltration of eosinophils was estimated by microscopy. Lung inflammation and mucus hypersecretion were assessed using hematoxylin and eosin, and periodic acid-Schiff staining, respectively. Th-2 cytokines, IL-4 and IL-5 were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and IgE in sera. To identify the possible mode of CBX action, we measured corticosterone levels in the BAL fluid and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LO) expression in the lungs. Results: CBX (5 mg/ml) inhalation markedly alleviated AHR (p = 0.0032) and reduced lung inflammation and mucus hypersecretion. Also, it prevented the increase in IL-4 (p = 0.0192), IL-5 (p = 0.0116) and eosinophils (p < 0.0005) in the BAL fluid, and OVA-specific IgE levels (p = 0.00061) in sera. 5-LO expression was also markedly reduced. However, corticosterone levels were not affected. Conclusions: Inhaled CBX alleviates the asthmatic features in mice and could be a potent nebulized therapy in clinical asthma.