bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Peatlands of eastern Newfoundland: distribution, morphology, vegetation, and nutrient status
Authors: Wells E. Doyle
Published: February 2008

The peatlands of eastern Newfoundland are classified into six morphological types: domed bog, blanket bog, slope bog, basins bog, ribbed fen, and slope fen. The separation of types is based on peat depth, surface physiognomy and slope, underlying basin or slope morphology, botanical constituents, and degree of humification of the peat strata. Low elevation aerial oblique photographs and stratigraphical profiles of the six representative morphological peatland types are presented.The peatland vegetation is classified into eight associations and four pool communities; three alliances are also proposed and comparisons with syntaxonomical classifications of European peatlands are discussed. Phytosociological tables are presented for the dry bog vegetation, wet bog vegetation, and fen vegetation; a summary table showing differential species groups of each syntaxon is also presented. pH and total contents of nitrogen, calcium, and iron are determined for the major vegetation types.
Stimulation by pH of cell cycle initiation in the yeast Candida utilis
Authors: Thomas K. Chandapillai
Published: February 2008

The effect of shifting pH of the growth medium on cell cycle initiation by the yeast Candida utilis was studied. The yeast was grown by the phased method of cultivation with nitrogen source (ammonium) in growth limiting concentrations and with a phasing period (imposed doubling time) of 6 h. The pH of the culture during the phased growth was maintained between 2.0 and 2.1. The rate of cell cycle initiation as determined by the rate of bud emergence was 24% per hour. If the pH of the culture was shifted to 6.0 at the beginning of the phasing period and maintained at that level for the rest of the phasing period the rate of bud emergence increased to 50% per hour. The increased rate of bud emergence was accompanied by a fast uptake of oxygen and the growth-limiting nutrient and by a reduction in the respiratory quotient. The results suggest that the pH shift accelerated cellular processes necessary for cell cycle initiation.
Germination of Thelephora terrestris basidiospores
Authors: Birraux D. , Fries N.
Published: February 2008

Thelephora terrestris basidiospores germinate slowly and sparsely on nutrient agar media if colonies of red yeast (Rhodotorula glutinis) or certain filamentous fungi are present together with the spores. Considerably faster germination at a higher percentage can be induced by seedling roots of pine and some other trees but not by roots of any herbs or grasses as yet tested. Germination is further improved if inhibitory compounds in the autoclaved agar medium are removed by means of activated charcoal. A consequence of these findings is that T. terrestris, which forms basidiocarps in pot culture and is an efficient ectomycorrhiza former, can be studied in all phases of its complete life cycle in the laboratory.
Ultrastructural association of the chromatin-containing lacunar spaces with the granular component of the interphase nucleolus in Allium cepa
Authors: Chouinard L. A.
Published: February 2008

At the ultrastructural level, the interphase nucleolus in root meristematic cells of Allium cepa is characterized by the presence of chromatin-containing lacunar spaces associated with the dense-fibrillar component of the nucleolar mass. The present observations reveal that a number of these chromatin-containing lacunar spaces also exhibit partial association with the dense-granular component of the nucleolus. Under the electron microscope, such lacunar spaces are indeed seen to be enclosed or walled off, on one side, by dense-fibrillar material, and on the other side, by dense-granular material continuous with and indistinguishable from the dense-granular component of the nucleolus. The relevant observational evidence would be consistent with the view that loops of transcriptionally active chromatin, emanating from the nucleolar organizing region, project radially into either only the dense-fibrillar or both the dense-fibrillar and the dense-granular material bordering the lacunar spaces in question.
Genetic and morphological relationships between blue spruce, Picea pungens, and Engelmann spruce, Picea engelmannii, in the Colorado Front Range
Authors: Mitton Jeffry B. , Andalora Rosemary
Published: February 2008

Nine morphological characters and one enzyme polymorphism were used in a study of hybridization of blue and Engelmann spruce in the Front Range of Colorado. Eighty-eight trees were studied in one pure Engelmann spruce population, one pure blue spruce population, and three sympatric populations along an elevational transect. The morphological data were summarized with principal components analysis, but no clusters were evident in the projections. A protein polymorphism indicated a predominance of different alleles in the two species, and none of the most common expected (hybrid) heterozygotes were seen. The protein data allowed unambiguous assignment of individuals to separate groups, and subsequently discriminant analysis was performed. The species could be significantly resolved by discriminant analysis of the morphological traits, but a small degree of overlap between species remained.
Nuclear behavior during conidiogenesis in Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Foudin L. L. , Papa K. E. , Hanlin R. T.
Published: February 2008

Nuclear behavior during conidiogenesis in Aspergillus flavus was studied cytologically and through the analysis of conidial chains in heterokaryons. Many nuclei migrate into the vesicle and one or more are incorporated into phialides. The nuclear constitution of each phialide is independent of all others and, for the most part, all conidia in a chain are identical. The analysis of 105 conidial chains, containing an average of seven conidia each, indicated that each chain was either homokaryotic for one spore-color type or was heterokaryotic. Seven chains, each with one to three deviant spores, were mixed. Occasionally random binucleate conidia were observed within uninucleate chains.
Neglected aspects of North American ethnobotany
Authors: French David H.
Published: February 2008

This symposium paper discusses materials and issues which have been infrequently addressed by ethnobotanists. The worth of familiar ethnobotanical research is not being challenged here, but rather possibilities for enlargement are being suggested. Some recent and potential research is described in the paper. The topics and questions covered include (1) available plants not used, or abandoned, by Native Americans; (2) "principles" of Native botany (other than the uses and names of vascular plants for food and medicine); (3) the relationship of ethnobotany to various (sub)disciplines, especially aspects of linguistics and the "anthropology" of knowledge" (perhaps a neologism); (4) Indian-defined plant entities (taxa) related by similarity, as well as by contrast and inclusion; (5) the occurrence of unnamed Indian taxa, especially on the lowest (cf. species) level; (6) medicines made from single plants versus mixtures, and panaceas versus specific cures; (7) ethnobotany as scholarly activity; (8) the possibility that an ethnobotanical perspective might link the interior of British Columbia with most of California in our thinking and in redrawn ecological and culture area maps.
Impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation in overweight and obese adult humans is not limited to muscarinic receptor agonists
Authors: Van Guilder Gary P. , Stauffer Brian L. , Greiner Jared J. , DeSouza Christopher A.
Published: February 2008

Muscarinic receptor agonists have primarily been used to characterize endothelium-dependent vasodilator dysfunction with overweight/obesity. Reliance on a single class of agonist, however, yields limited, and potentially misleading, information regarding endothelial vasodilator capacity. The aims of this study were to determine 1) whether the overweight/obesity-related reduction in endothelium-dependent vasodilation extends beyond muscarinic receptor agonists and 2) whether the contribution of nitric oxide (NO) to endothelium-dependent vasodilation is reduced in overweight/obese adults. Eighty-six middle-aged and older adults were studied: 42 normal-weight (54 ± 1 yr, 21 men and 21 women, body mass index = 23.4 ± 0.3 kg/m2) and 44 overweight/obese (54 ± 1 yr, 28 men and 16 women, body mass index = 30.3 ± 0.6 kg/m2) subjects. Forearm blood flow (FBF) responses to intra-arterial infusions of acetylcholine in the absence and presence of the endothelial NO synthase inhibitor NG-monomethyl-l-arginine, methacholine, bradykinin, substance P, isoproterenol, and sodium nitroprusside were measured by strain-gauge plethysmography. FBF responses to each endothelial agonist were significantly blunted in the overweight/obese adults. Total FBF (area under the curve) to acetylcholine (50 ± 5 vs. 79 ± 4 ml/100 ml tissue), methacholine (55 ± 4 vs. 86 ± 5 ml/100 ml tissue), bradykinin (62 ± 5 vs. 85 ± 4 ml/100 ml tissue), substance P (37 ± 4 vs. 57 ± 5 ml/100 ml tissue), and isoproterenol (62 ± 4 vs. 82 ± 6 ml/100 ml tissue) were 30%-40% lower in the overweight/obese than normal-weight adults. NG-monomethyl-l-arginine significantly reduced the FBF response to acetylcholine to the same extent in both groups. There were no differences between the groups in the FBF responses to sodium nitroprusside. These results indicate that agonist-stimulated endothelium-dependent vasodilation is universally impaired with overweight/obesity. Moreover, this impairment appears to be independent of NO.
A Retroinhibition Approach Reveals a Tumor Cell–Autonomous Response to Rapamycin in Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Amornphimoltham Panomwat , Patel Vyomesh , Leelahavanichkul Kantima , Abraham Robert T. , Gutkind J. Silvio
Published: February 2008

Emerging evidence supporting the activation of the Akt-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling network in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) progression has provided the rationale for exploring the therapeutic potential of inhibiting this pathway for HNSCC treatment. Indeed, rapamycin, a clinically relevant mTOR inhibitor, promotes the rapid regression of HNSCC-tumor xenografts in mice. However, rapamycin does not affect the growth of HNSCC cells in vitro, thus raising the possibility that, as for other cancer types, rapamycin may not target cancer cells directly but may instead act on a component of the tumor microenvironment, such as tumor-associated vasculature. Here, we used a retroinhibition approach to assess the contribution of cancer cell–autonomous actions of rapamycin to its antitumor activity in HNSCC. A rapamycin-resistant form of mTOR (mTOR-RR) was expressed in HNSCC cells while retaining the wild-type (rapamycin-sensitive) mTOR (mTOR-WT) alleles in host-derived endothelial and stromal cells. Expression of mTOR-RR prevented the decrease in phospho-S6 levels caused by rapamycin through mTOR in HNSCC cells but not in stromal cells, and rendered HNSCC xenografts completely resistant to the antitumoral activity of rapamycin. This reverse pharmacology strategy also enabled monitoring the direct consequences of inhibiting mTOR in cancer cells within the complex tumor microenvironment, which revealed that mTOR controls the accumulation of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and the consequent expression of vascular endothelial growth factor and a glucose transporter, Glut-1, in HNSCC cells. These findings indicate that HNSCC cells are the primary target of rapamycin in vivo, and provide evidence that its antiangiogenic effects may represent a downstream consequence of mTOR inhibition in HNSCC cells. [Cancer Res 2008;68(4):1144–53]
Nucleolin StabilizesBcl-XLMessenger RNA in Response to UVA Irradiation
Authors: Zhang Jack , Tsaprailis George , Bowden G. Tim
Published: February 2008

Our laboratory has previously reported that UVA irradiation can increase the expression of Bcl-XL, an antiapoptotic molecule, by stabilizing its mRNA in cultured immortalized human keratinocytes. To understand the mechanism by which the Bcl-XL message is stabilized, we used a synthetic Bcl-XL 3′-untranslated region (UTR) to capture RNA-binding proteins. Nucleolin was identified as one of the binding proteins as determined by tandem mass spectrometry coupled to liquid chromatography analysis. Further study showed that nucleolin specifically recognized the AU-rich elements (AUUUA) in the 3′-UTR of the Bcl-XL mRNA and could stabilize the mRNA in vitro. Furthermore, overexpression of nucleolin stabilizes the Bcl-XL mRNA in HeLa cells, whereas reducing nucleolin by small interfering RNA shortens the Bcl-XL mRNA half-life. Interestingly, nucleolin physically interacted with polyadenylate [poly(A)]–binding protein through it RGG motifs. Its stabilizing effect on the Bcl-XL mRNA was dependent upon the presence of poly(A) tail. Based on these data, we propose a model in which nucleolin protects the Bcl-XL mRNA from nuclease degradation by enhancing the stability of the ribonucleoprotein loop structure. [Cancer Res 2008;68(4):1046–54]
A Phase I and Pharmacokinetic Trial of Erlotinib in Combination with Weekly Docetaxel in Patients with Taxane-Naive Malignancies
Authors: Chiorean E. Gabriela , Porter Jennifer M. , Foster Anne E. , Al Omari Amal S.H. , Yoder Christy A. , Fife Karen L. , Strother R. Matthew , Murry Daryl J. , Yu Menggang , Jones David R. , Sweeney Christopher J.
Published: February 2008

Purpose: This study aimed to define the maximum tolerated dose of weekly docetaxel combined with daily erlotinib, an oral epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor.

Experimental Design: Patients with any solid tumor received 150 mg erlotinib with escalating doses of docetaxel (20, 25, 30, and 35 mg/m2) on days 1, 8, and 15 every 28 days. The pharmacokinetics of docetaxel and erlotinib was determined on cycle 2, day 1. Erlotinib was given for a maximum of 12 cycles and docetaxel was given for up to 6 cycles.

Results: Twenty-five patients (17 males and 8 females) were enrolled with a median age of 56 years (range, 34-76); Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0/1 was 20/5. One patient had a dose-limiting toxicity in cycle 1 at the 25 mg/m2 level (grade 3 enterocolitis). At 35 mg/m2 docetaxel dose level, 6 of 10 patients required dose reductions to 30 mg/m2 beyond cycle 1 due to neutropenia (3 patients) and mucositis, increased bilirubin, and diarrhea (1 patient each). The clearance of docetaxel and erlotinib of 61.7 and 8.16 L/h, respectively, did not seem to differ from historical controls. Responses were seen in non–small cell lung cancer, prostate cancer, and hepatobiliary cancers, including a complete response lasting 36+ months in a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma.

Conclusion: Although no maximum tolerated dose was reached in cycle 1 with 35 mg/m2 docetaxel, repetitive dosing proved intolerable in a substantial number of patients; thus, the recommended phase II dose of weekly docetaxel is 30 mg/m2 when combined with 150 mg of daily erlotinib.
Nuclear Factor-Y and Epstein Barr Virus in Nasopharyngeal Cancer
Authors: Chia Marie C. , Leung Abby , Krushel Tiffany , Alajez Nehad M. , Lo Kwok W. , Busson Pierre , Klamut Henry J. , Bastianutto Carlo , Liu Fei-Fei
Published: February 2008

Purpose: The Epstein Barr virus (EBV) is intimately associated with nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) in a latent state expressing a limited number of genes. The process of switching from latency to replication is not well understood, particularly in response to DNA stress; hence, the focus of this study is on an EBV-positive NPC model.

Experimental Design: C666-1 cells were exposed to radiation (2-15 Gy) or cisplatin (0.1-50 μg/mL) assayed subsequently for relative EBV copy number (BamHI) and lytic gene expression (BRLF1 and BZLF1) using quantitative real-time PCR. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was conducted to assess the interaction of the transcription factor nuclear factor-Y (NF-Y) with promoter sequences.

Results: Radiation-induced and cisplatin-induced BamHI expression, along with increased levels of BRLF1 and BZLF1 in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner, associated with the immediate nuclear transactivation of the transcription factor NF-Y and its own increased transcription of NF-Y subunits 8 h posttreatment. In silico analysis revealed three putative NF-Y consensus-binding sequences in the promoter region of BRLF1, which all interacted with NF-Y in response to radiation and cisplatin, confirmed using chromatin immunoprecipitation. Introduction of dominant-negative NF-YA reduced BRLF1 expression after radiation and cisplatin by 2.8-fold; in turn, overexpression of NF-YA resulted in a 2-fold increase in both BRLF1 and BZLF1 expression.

Conclusions: These results show that NF-Y is an important mediator of EBV stress response in switching from a latent to lytic state. This novel insight could provide a potential therapeutic strategy to enhance NPC response to radiation and cisplatin.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors in Neuro-oncology: Hopes and Disappointments
Authors: Brandes Alba A. , Franceschi Enrico , Tosoni Alicia , Hegi Monika E. , Stupp Roger
Published: February 2008

Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment made over the past two decades, high-grade gliomas are still incurable neoplasms. Moreover, after failing adjuvant therapy, few active treatments are available. In this setting, novel agents, such as new chemotherapy compounds and anticancer agents against specific molecular targets, have therefore been investigated. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is an intriguing target in high-grade gliomas because it is frequently overexpressed due to amplification of the EGFR gene. Gefitinib and erlotinib act as ATP mimetic agents, binding to the cytoplasmic ATP pocket domain and blocking receptor phosphorylations and, thereby, EGFR-mediated activation of downstream pathways. These drugs have been evaluated in several clinical trials treating recurrent high-grade gliomas with contrasting results. Retrospective correlative analyses generated a plethora of putative predictive factors of activity of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors. The first generations of studies on EGFR inhibitors have not found significant activity of these agents in high-grade gliomas. Furthermore, no clear molecular or clinical predictors have been identified. As with other targeted agents, prospective trials using specific criteria and standardized methods to evaluate tissue biomarkers are required to find predictors of EGFR inhibitors activity in high-grade glioma patients.
Honokiol, a Constituent of Oriental Medicinal Herb Magnolia officinalis, Inhibits Growth of PC-3 Xenografts In vivo in Association with Apoptosis Induction
Authors: Hahm Eun-Ryeong , Arlotti Julie A. , Marynowski Stanley W. , Singh Shivendra V.
Published: February 2008

Purpose: This study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of honokiol, a constituent of oriental medicinal herb Magnolia officinalis, against human prostate cancer cells in culture and in vivo.

Experimental Design: Honokiol-mediated apoptosis was assessed by analysis of cytoplasmic histone-associated DNA fragmentation. Knockdown of Bax and Bak proteins was achieved by transient transfection using siRNA. Honokiol was administered by oral gavage to male nude mice s.c. implanted with PC-3 cells. Tumor sections from control and honokiol-treated mice were examined for apoptotic bodies (terminal deoxyribonucleotidyl transferase–mediated dUTP nick end labeling assay), proliferation index (proliferating cell nuclear antigen staining), and neovascularization (CD31 staining). Levels of Bcl-2 family proteins in cell lysates and tumor supernatants were determined by immunoblotting.

Results: Exposure of human prostate cancer cells (PC-3, LNCaP, and C4-2) to honokiol resulted in apoptotic DNA fragmentation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner irrespective of their androgen responsiveness or p53 status. Honokiol-induced apoptosis correlated with induction of Bax, Bak, and Bad and a decrease in Bcl-xL and Mcl-1 protein levels. Transient transfection of PC-3 cells with Bak- and Bax-targeted siRNAs and Bcl-xL plasmid conferred partial yet significant protection against honokiol-induced apoptosis. Oral gavage of 2 mg honokiol/mouse (thrice a week) significantly retarded growth of PC-3 xenografts without causing weight loss. Tumors from honokiol-treated mice exhibited markedly higher count of apoptotic bodies and reduced proliferation index and neovascularization compared with control tumors.

Conclusion: Our data suggest that honokiol, which is used in traditional oriental medicine for the treatment of various ailments, may be an attractive agent for treatment and/or prevention of human prostate cancers.
Molecular Risk Assessment for Breast Cancer Development in Patients with Ductal Hyperplasias
Authors: Poola Indira , Abraham Jessy , Marshalleck Josephine J. , Yue Qingqi , Lokeshwar Vinatha B. , Bonney George , DeWitty Robert L.
Published: February 2008

Purpose: It has been reported that approximately a million women are diagnosed with benign breast lesions that include ductal hyperplasias per year in the United States. Recent studies that followed women with benign lesions have established that about 8% to 9% of them will subsequently develop invasive breast cancer (IBC). However, currently, there are no means of identifying a subclass of “true precancerous tissues” in women with ductal hyperplasias who will subsequently develop cancer. The purpose of this study is to investigate whether expression of hyaluronoglucosaminidase 1 (HYAL1), a known tumor promoter, in hyperplastic tissues identifies a “true precancerous stage” and predicts subsequent IBC development.

Experimental Design: A retrospective study was conducted with archival benign tissues of various histologic types and clinical information on development/nondevelopment of IBC. The control group was hyperplastic tissues from women who had no prior history of IBC and did not develop cancer in 5 to 7 years after diagnosis (n = 81). The test group was hyperplastic tissues from patients who developed cancer (n = 82). HYAL1 expression was studied by immunohistochemistry, and the results were statistically analyzed for significant association to develop cancer (P value), specificity, sensitivity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value.

Results: Statistical analysis of HYAL1 expression data showed very highly significant association between its expression and subsequent cancer development (P = 0) and very high sensitivity (0.83), specificity (0.84), positive predictive value (0.84), and negative predictive value (0.83).

Conclusions: The expression of HYAL1 in ductal hyperplastic tissues is a strong predictor of subsequent development of IBC; therefore, it can be applied as a diagnostic marker either singly or in combination with other marker(s) to screen benign tissues to predict subsequent development of IBC. Detection at the precancerous stage and treatment could drastically cut down breast cancer incidence and deaths from it.
Induction of growth arrest and apoptosis in human breast cancer cells by 3,3-diindolylmethane is associated with induction and nuclear localization of p27kip
Authors: Wang Zhiwei , Yu Bennett W. , Rahman KM Wahidur , Ahmad Fakhara , Sarkar Fazlul H.
Published: February 2008

3,3′-Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a stable condensation product of indole-3-carbanol, a potential breast cancer chemoprevention agent. Human breast cancer cell lines were studied to better understand its mechanisms. In vitro experiments were done in MCF-7, T47D, BT-20 and BT-474 cells using MTT, ELISA, immunoblotting assays, reverse transcription-PCR, protein half-life, confocal microscopy, cell fractionation, and immunoprecipitation assays. We found that DIM inhibited the growth of all four breast cancer cell lines (IC50s, 25-56 μmol/L). Because BT-20 and BT-474 overexpressed Her-2 and activated Akt, and BT-20 lacks estrogen receptor, these were studied further. In both cell lines, DIM appeared to induce expression of p27kip protein before the loss of cell viability and apoptosis. In BT-20 cells, DIM also inhibited expression of activated Akt, but this appeared after p27kip induction. In both cell lines, DIM induced p27kip transcript expression within 6 h. DIM prolonged the p27kip protein half-life in BT-20 but not BT-474 cells. We also showed, for the first time, that DIM induced nuclear localization of p27kip in both cell lines. Moreover, in BT-20 cells, DIM induced a decrease in p27kip phosphorylation at Thr187, and its association with the 14-3-3 protein, which helped to explain the protein half-life increase and nuclear localization, respectively. DIM modulates p27kip through transcription, prolongation of protein half-life, and nuclear localization. These effects appear to be independent of Her-2, Akt, or estrogen receptor status and should support further study for its chemoprevention potential in breast cancer. [Mol Cancer Ther 2008;7(2):341–9]
A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effect of Aerobic Exercise Training on Feelings of Energy and Fatigue in Sedentary Young Adults with Persistent Fatigue
Authors: Puetz Timothy W. , Flowers Sara S. , O’Connor Patrick J.
Published: February 2008

Background: There is growing evidence that chronic exercise is a promising intervention for combating feelings of low energy and fatigue. Although groups with well-defined medical conditions (for example cancer and heart disease) or unexplained fatigue syndromes consistently have reported improved feelings of energy and fatigue after chronic exercise, relatively few exercise training studies have been conducted with people who report persistent fatigue yet neither have a medical condition nor reach diagnostic criteria for an unexplained fatigue syndrome. The purpose of this investigation was to use a randomized controlled design to examine the effects of 6 weeks of chronic exercise training on feelings of energy and fatigue in sedentary, healthy young adults reporting persistent fatigue. Methods: Thirty-six healthy, young adults who reported persistent feelings of fatigue were randomly assigned to a moderate-intensity exercise, low-intensity exercise or no treatment control group. Participants in each condition then visited the exercise laboratory on 18 occasions over a 6-week period. Exercise laboratory visits occurred 3 days per week. Vigor and fatigue mood state scores were obtained at the beginning of the third exercise session each week for 6 weeks. Aerobic fitness was measured before and after intervention. Results: The effect of 6 weeks of exercise training on feelings of fatigue was dependent on exercise intensity; however, the effect on feelings of energy was similar for both the low- and moderate-intensity conditions. The changes in feelings of energy and fatigue were independent of changes in aerobic fitness. Conclusions: Six weeks of low and moderate exercise training performed by sedentary adults without a well-defined medical condition or an unexplained fatigue syndrome but reporting persistent feelings of fatigue resulted in similarly beneficial effects on feelings of energy. The effects for symptoms of fatigue were moderated by exercise intensity, and the more favorable outcome was realized with low-intensity exercise. Changes in feelings of energy and fatigue following exercise training were unrelated to changes in aerobic fitness.
Effect of Infliximab on Local and Systemic Inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dentener Mieke A. , Creutzberg Eva C. , Pennings Herman-Jan , Rijkers Ger T. , Mercken Evi , Wouters Emiel F.M.
Published: February 2008

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) with cachexia is characterized by inflammation reflected by increased levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). Objectives: In this study, infliximab, an anti-TNF-α antibody, was evaluated for its effects on systemic (plasma) and local (exhaled breath condensate, EBC) inflammation in cachectic patients with COPD. Also, baseline levels of new inflammatory markers were compared to control subjects. Methods: Sixteen cachectic patients with moderate to severe COPD were examined for inflammatory status at baseline and compared to 25 control subjects. Patients were randomized (1:1) to receive infliximab (5 mg/kg) or placebo at weeks 0, 2 and 6. Patients were evaluated at weeks 8 and 12 and followed through week 26. Results: EBC analysis revealed increased levels of several novel inflammatory markers, including macrophage migration inhibitory factor, IL-12, RANTES and sICAM-1, in patients with COPD compared to controls. EBC levels of inflammatory markers were unchanged in patients receiving infliximab. In addition, systemic levels of acute-phase proteins (C-reactive protein, fibrinogen and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein), IL-6 and soluble TNF receptor (sTNFR) 55 had not changed at weeks 8 or 12. Small increases in circulating levels of sTNFR75, myeloperoxidase and Clara cell protein 16 were seen at week 8, but not at week 12. Conclusions: In this small study, infliximab did not produce an observable decrease in local inflammation in cachectic patients with COPD and had minor effects on systemic inflammation. The detection of new inflammatory markers in EBC can help to further characterize local inflammatory processes in COPD.
Russia Adapts the Model of the Finnish Legal Aid System
Authors: Venäläinen Marina
Published: February 2008

In this article, the author discusses the recent experiences of cooperation between the Ministry of Justice of Finland and the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation and the Federal Registry Service regarding the development of a free state legal aid system in Russia. These experiences stem from a pilot project initiated and implemented by the Ministry of Justice in the Russian Federation and associated with the Ministry of Justice of Finland during 2006-2007. The article first addresses the key laws within the Russian legislative system concerning legal aid that had been enacted prior to and during the pilot project, and presents the authorities that are responsible for the provision of legal aid services in Russia. Secondly, it presents some preliminary descriptive results obtained by the year 2006 on the socio-demographic profile of users of the legal aid system that was established for piloting in Russia and on the legal cases addressed during the project. The examples provided in the article are particularly based on the statistics of the State Bureau of Legal Aid of the Republic of Karelia—one of the pilot regions. The article also discusses the experiences of the Finnish experts who were involved in the project and addresses some of the specific problems that were noticed during the pilot work in the Russian legal aid system. The author concludes by identifying a number of subjects that need specific attention and practical implementation, in order to further develop the system of free state-provisioned legal aid in Russia.
The Place of aporia in Plato's Charmides
Authors: Politis Vasilis
Published: February 2008

The aim of the paper is twofold: to examine the argument in response to Socrates' question whether or not reflexive knowledge is, first, possible, and, second, beneficial; and by doing so, to examine the method of Plato's argument. What is distinctive of the method of argument, I want to show, is that Socrates argues on both sides of these questions (the question of possibility and the question of benefit). This, I argue, is why he describes these questions as a source of aporia. Socrates can argue, without contradiction, on both sides of these questions because the arguments against the possibility and benefit of reflexive knowledge are premised on the supposition, defended by Critias, that this knowledge is only of one's knowledge and lack of knowledge, whereas the arguments for its possibility and benefit are not committed to this supposition.
Aristotle on Ontological Dependence
Authors: Corkum Phil
Published: February 2008

Aristotle holds that individual substances are ontologically independent from non-substances and universal substances but that non-substances and universal substances are ontologically dependent on substances. There is then an asymmetry between individual substances and other kinds of beings with respect to ontological dependence. Under what could plausibly be called the standard interpretation, the ontological independence ascribed to individual substances and denied of non-substances and universal substances is a capacity for independent existence. There is, however, a tension between this interpretation and the asymmetry between individual substances and the other kinds of entities with respect to ontological independence. I will propose an alternative interpretation: to weaken the relevant notion of ontological independence from a capacity for independent existence to the independent possession of a certain ontological status.
The Christian lapsi in Smyrna, 250 A.D. (Martyrium Pionii 12-14)
Authors: Ameling Walter
Published: February 2008

Pionios died as a martyr in Smyrna during the Decian persecution. The Martyrium Pionii is one of the most interesting examples of the acta martyrum, possibly partly based on texts written by the martyr himself. There are two speeches by Pionios, the second and longer one held in prison. It is usually thought that Pionios addresses two different audiences in this speech, but it can be shown that the whole speech is directed at Christians lapsi, who had sacrificed or were forced to sacrifice in the course of the persecution. Since we know almost nothing about Decian lapsi in Asia Minor, this alone is already of some importance, but we get also some glimpses of the discussions in the Christian community and can re-assess the mention of the Jewish community in Smyrna and it's role during the persecution.
On the Proper Order of Markov Chain Model for Daily Precipitation Occurrence in the Contiguous United States
Authors: Schoof J. T. , Pryor S. C.
Published: February 2008

Markov chains are widely used tools for modeling daily precipitation occurrence. Given the assumption that the Markov chain model is the right model for daily precipitation occurrence, the choice of Markov model order was examined on a monthly basis for 831 stations in the contiguous United States using long-term data. The model order was first identified using the Bayesian information criteria (BIC). The maximum-likelihood estimates of the Markov transition probabilities were computed from 100 bootstrapped samples and were then used to generate 50-yr precipitation occurrence series. The distributions of dry- and wet-spell lengths in the resulting series were then compared with observations using a two-sample Kolmogorov–Smirnov (K-S) test. The results suggest that the most parsimonious model, as identified by the BIC, usually (in approximately 68% of the cases) reproduced the wet- and dry-spell length distributions. However, the K-S test often indicated a second-order model when the BIC indicated a first-order model. In a smaller number of cases, the BIC indicated a higher-order model than the K-S test. In both cases, the differences were found to be due to the distribution of wet spells rather than dry spells. It is concluded that models chosen on the basis of the BIC may not adequately reproduce the distributions of wet and dry spells for some locations and times of year.
Global-Scale Energy and Freshwater Balance in Glacial Climate: A Comparison of Three PMIP2 LGM Simulations
Authors: Murakami Shigenori , Ohgaito Rumi , Abe-Ouchi Ayako , Crucifix Michel , Otto-Bliesner Bette L.
Published: February 2008

Three coupled atmosphere–ocean general circulation model (AOGCM) simulations of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM: about 21 000 yr before present), conducted under the protocol of the second phase of the Paleoclimate Modelling Intercomparison Project (PMIP2), have been analyzed from a viewpoint of large-scale energy and freshwater balance. Atmospheric latent heat (LH) transport decreases at most latitudes due to reduced water vapor content in the lower troposphere, and dry static energy (DSE) transport in northern midlatitudes increases and changes the intensity contrast between the Pacific and Atlantic regions due to enhanced stationary waves over the North American ice sheets. In low latitudes, even with an intensified Hadley circulation in the Northern Hemisphere (NH), reduced DSE transport by the mean zonal circulation as well as a reduced equatorward LH transport is observed. The oceanic heat transport at NH midlatitudes increases owing to intensified subpolar gyres, and the Atlantic heat transport at low latitudes increases in all models whether or not meridional overturning circulation (MOC) intensifies. As a result, total poleward energy transport at the LGM increases in NH mid- and low latitudes in all models. Oceanic freshwater transport decreases, compensating for the response of the atmospheric water vapor transport. These responses in the atmosphere and ocean make the northern North Atlantic Ocean cold and relatively fresh, and the Southern Ocean relatively warm and saline. This is a common and robust feature in all models. The resultant ocean densities and ocean MOC response, however, show model dependency.
Enlightened or Delusional?
Authors: Johnson Chad V. , Friedman Harris L.
Published: February 2008

Psychological diagnosis faces unique challenges when used to differentiate nonpsychopathological religious/spiritual/transpersonal (R/S/T) experiences from those that might evidence psychopathology, particularly considering the diversity of such experiences and the value-laden assumptions inherent in most diagnostic practices. Theoretical and pragmatic problems related to the diagnostic category, Religious and Spiritual Problem, as contained in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders are discussed. Attention is paid to identifying potential biases and errors in using, or failing to use, this diagnostic category, particularly as related to developing culturally sensitive diagnoses. Specific methods, including psychometric approaches, for evaluating R/S/T experiences that may range from healthy to psychopathological are reviewed and recommendations are presented for improving current diagnostic practices and furthering needed research.
The Pharmacokinetics and Safety of Adefovir Dipivoxil in Children and Adolescents With Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Sokal Etienne M. , Kelly Deirdre , Wirth Stefan , Mizerski Jacob , Dhawan Anil , Frederick David
Published: February 2008

There is a continued need for safe and effective treatments for children and adolescents with chronic hepatitis B. Adefovir dipivoxil (ADV) is a licensed treatment for chronic hepatitis B in adults. This study was designed to characterize the pharmacokinetic profile of adefovir following the administration of 0.14 mg/kg and 0.3 mg/kg of ADV (oral solution) in children aged 2 to 11 years and of ADV 10 mg in adolescents aged 12 to 17 years. Forty‐five subjects were included in the pharmacokinetic and safety evaluations. Adefovir was rapidly absorbed. Adefovir levels rose rapidly in the first hour and then declined in a biphasic manner. Dose‐proportional pharmacokinetics was observed in the 0.14‐mg/kg and 0.3‐mg/kg groups. The 0.3‐mg/kg dose in children aged 2 to 6 and the 10‐mg dose in adolescents resulted in exposures that were comparable to those seen previously in adults given ADV 10 mg. Adefovir dipivoxil was well tolerated at the doses evaluated in this study. Adverse events were generally mild and reported as being unrelated to study medication. There was 1 serious adverse event reported that was not related to study medication. No patient discontinued the study prematurely due to an adverse event related to the study drug.
Spontaneous Spinal Epidural Hematomas in Children: Can We Prevent a Negative Prognosis?—Reflections on 2 Cases
Authors: Ramelli Gian Paolo , Boscherini Duccio , Kehrli Pierre , Rilliet Benedict
Published: February 2008

Spontaneous spinal epidural hematomas in children are very rare and, until now, have not been described in infants. Spontaneous spinal epidural hematomas is characterized by a sudden onset of acute back pain followed by acute neurological deterioration within a few hours, but in younger children the initial symptoms are often nonspecific, leading to a delay in diagnosis and treatment. Although some cases have been reported, controversy persists as to its origin, diagnosis, and timing of treatment. We present 2 new cases of this rare condition: a 7-month-old girl who suffered from acute paraplegia and, unfortunately, did not recover after adequate spinal decompression. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of spontaneous spinal epidural hematomas in an infant. We also report a similar observation in a 13.5-year-old boy who also suffered from acute paraplegia and had only a partial recovery after urgent decompression.
Evidence-Based Versus Reported Epilepsy Management Practices
Authors: Mastriani Katherine S. , Williams Virginia C. , Hulsey Thomas C. , Wheless James W. , Maria Bernard L.
Published: February 2008

Evidence-based medicine practices are widely touted in medicine, although their adoption by busy practitioners is problematic and cumbersome. In this study, we examined published evidence underpinning 2 relevant clinical management questions in pediatric epilepsy: when to initiate an antiepileptic drug and when to prescribe the ketogenic diet. We surveyed practicing child neurologists who were attending their national meeting to determine whether their current practices aligned with the evidence. Clinical studies were evaluated using the Oxford Scale, which was adopted by the American Academy of Neurology. In addition, using a novel rating approach, we examined the impact on overall recommendations by scoring results from studies refuting a given practice. The data show that child neurologists' attitudes firmly adhere to evidence-based practice on when to initiate treatment with an antiepileptic drug, but not on when to prescribe the ketogenic diet. It seems clear that important differences in attitudes of practitioners toward different management strategies for epilepsy cannot be explained only by differences in the evidence. Safety and efficacy data suggest that the ketogenic diet should be more widely adopted as a management strategy in pediatric epilepsy.
Diagnostic Yield of Electroencephalograms in Infants and Young Children With Frequent Paroxysmal Eye Movements
Authors: Watemberg Nathan , Lerman-Sagie Tally , Kramer Uri
Published: February 2008

Paroxysmal eye movement events are common in children. Many infants and young children are referred for a routine or a video-electroencephalography study. When epileptic, these events form part of a seizure and rarely occur as an isolated ictal event. The yield of the electroencephalogram in determining the nature of isolated paroxysmal eye movement episodes has not been reported. We reviewed our experience with video-electroencephalography studies in patients referred for paroxysmal eye movements. Twenty-one cases were analyzed, of which almost half were cognitively normal. All video-electroencephalography studies captured events that were found to be nonepileptic, including 6 records with interictal epileptiform activity. The semiology of the events differed between cognitively impaired individuals, who had more lateral eye deviation episodes, and normal patients, who showed blinking as a major manifestation. In conclusion, video-electroencephalography studies are probably not indicated in infants and young children with paroxysmal eye movements as their sole complaint.
Pediatric Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI): Issues and Applications
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Elizabeth Stief , Berl Madison M. , Moore Erin N. , Gaillard William D.
Published: February 2008

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) represents a useful tool for studying brain functions and the neural basis of cognition in healthy children and in those in disease states. Functional magnetic resonance imaging is a relatively new use of existing magnetic resonance imaging technology that allows scientists and practitioners to observe the brain at work. It is based on the observation that local increases in blood flow are related to neural activity. This review considers principles of functional magnetic resonance imaging, issues relevant to imaging children, and research using functional magnetic resonance imaging to examine cognitive processing in pediatric populations. The focus is specifically on language studies to review strengths, limitations, and practical applications of this technology with children. Future directions for functional magnetic resonance imaging are presented.
The Return of the Subaltern: International Education and Politics of Voice
Authors: Asgharzadeh Alireza
Published: February 2008

In a rapidly globalizing world, it is becoming a major task of international education to study a variety of sociopolitical, economic, developmental, and intercultural relations, at the heart of which lie issues around subalternity, diversity, language, and dialogue. In its current state, how well prepared is the field of international education to deal with these complex issues? Through an exploration of narratives from various intellectual, cultural, and linguistic traditions, this article maintains that (a) concerns around critical dialogue and freedom of expression are universal concerns applicable in/to different environments and cultures; (b) such concerns need to be situated within the wider issues around diversity, multiculturalism, multilingualism, human rights, peace, and social justice; and (c) international and global education can take on this challenge by critically engaging various issues emerging from conditions of subalternity, politics of voice, and multiple identities, as well as a variety of diasporic, multicultural, postcolonial, and global contexts.
Social Constructionist Family Systems Research: Conceptual Considerations
Authors: Puig Ana , Koro-Ljungberg Mirka , Echevarria-Doan Silvia
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this article is to illustrate how theory and particularly the theoretical perspective of social constructionism can influence the ways in which scholars conduct qualitative research studies in the area of family systems. The authors argue for the importance of theory in qualitative research projects and promote researchers' clear and conscious articulation of epistemological and theoretical commitments taken during the research projects. Therefore, this article exemplifies some of these theoretical connections and elaborates on selected concepts embedded in social constructionism (e.g., socialization in context, dialogue, identity) and discusses how these concepts can be applied to qualitative family systems research. The authors address and exemplify the role of subjectivity in social constructionist research design and propose the use of focus groups as a suitable methodology for this type of research.
Family Management Styles Related to Withdrawal of Life-Sustaining Therapy From Adults Who Are Acutely Ill or Injured
Authors: Wiegand Debra Lynn-McHale , Deatrick Janet A. , Knafl Kathleen
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this study is to define family management styles (FMSs) and determine distinctive characteristics of each FMS used by families participating in the process of withdrawal of life-sustaining therapy from a family member with an unexpected, life-threatening illness or injury. A total of 56 family members of 19 families participated in interviews and observations. Data were managed and analyzed maintaining a family focus, and each family was first examined for within family patterns of management, then compared to other families to identify differing patterns. A typology of five FMSs emerged: progressing, accommodating, maintaining, struggling, and floundering. Within this typology, dimensions emerged describing the families' varying definitions of the situations, management behaviors, and consequences. FMSs were constructed through typifying how these dimensions differed across families. Understanding FMSs can aid health care providers as families are assessed and interventions are planned.