bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Economics of Promotion and Relegation in Sports Leagues
Authors: Noll Roger G.
Published: April 2009

In most of the world’s professional sports leagues, the worst teams in better leagues are demoted while the best teams in weaker leagues are promoted. This article examines the economics of promotion and relegation, using data from English football (soccer). The crucial findings are as follows: players earn higher wages under promotion and relegation, promotion and relegation has a net positive effect on attendance, and the effect of promotion and relegation on competitive balance is ambiguous. The unbalancing effect arises because the system places some teams in leagues in which they have no realistic chance to afford a winning team, thereby causing teams to spend less on players during their (brief) stay in a higher league than they spent while trying to be promoted from as lesser league. The article concludes with an analysis of how promotion and relegation might be implemented in North America.
Testing Market Efficiency in the Major League Baseball Over-Under Betting Market
Authors: Brown Kenneth H. , Abraham Fred J.
Published: April 2009

This article tests market efficiency in the over-under betting market for Major League Baseball using data from the 1996 through 2000 seasons. It is shown that a simple betting strategy based on streaks was profitable for the 1997 season but was not profitable for any of the other years studied. The 1997 season involved expansion, realignment, and the introduction of interleague play to Major League Baseball. These changes in the league’s structure may have created uncertainty in player and team performance, which allowed this strategy to be profitable. The article argues, however, that the over-under betting market for baseball is efficient because the profitability of this strategy was eliminated in the following years.
“Made in India”
Authors: Kumar Shanti , Curtin Michael
Published: April 2009

The pressing problems and peculiar potential of transculturation in music television can be most profitably addressed by examining the struggles within being waged by local Hindi pop artists such as Alisha Chinai. Through close textual analysis, this article critically examines how and why one of Alishas most popular music videos, titled “Made in India,” has become somewhat of a cultural icon for many Indian women, ranking as the best-selling pop song of all time in the South Asian music market. The authors show how pop constructions of Indiannesson music television have been strategically appropriated by marginalized youth cultures to imagine alternatives to both national and transnational institutions of political and patriarchal power.
Big Brother and Critical Discourse
Authors: Mathijs Ernest
Published: April 2009

This essay discusses the critical discourse surrounding the reception of the first season of Big Brother in Belgium. Comments on the show varied from moral outrage, over discussions of the program's intrinsic features, to discussions of the show's cultural resonance. In general, these comments followed a trajectory similar to John Corner's description of a move from use value (social significance) to exchange value (a consumer's product), while at the same time differing from it by still trying to hang onto a separate notion of moral value (what the show should and shouldn't do). Specifically, this essay argues that the reception of Big Brother Belgium consists of three changes: a shift in critical attitude, a shift in the mode of criticism, and a shift in relationship toward the show's format. Together these three changes reflect the critics' move from a focus on moral value to one on the use/exchange value of the show, while also reflecting differences in the use of moral arguments as a link between critics' cultural concerns and their professional attitude.
Four-Layer Bandaging: From Concept to Practice
Authors: Moffatt Christine
Published: April 2009

The 4-layer bandage was originally designed to provide sustained leg compression to patients with venous leg ulcers. Since then, the practice of 4-layer bandaging has become widespread in the United Kingdom. Ulcer healing rates vary for a number of reasons. This review, by a member of the original design team, seeks to discuss reasons of varying success and offers advice for its appropriate usage.
Using Living Skin Equivalents for Diabetic Foot Ulceration
Authors: Pham Hau T. , Rich Jeremy , Veves Aristidis
Published: April 2009

Diabetic foot ulcers are a major clinical challenge with enormous socioeconomic consequence. All advances in the understanding and management of this problem are eagerly received by wound specialists. The development of bioengineered skin—living skin equivalent—is an interesting event that could be significant in the management of lower extremity wounds such as the diabetic foot ulcer.
Radiological Investigation and Treatment of the Critically Ischemic Limb—A Review
Authors: Odurny Allan
Published: April 2009

The contribution of radiological investigation and treatment in the management of the critically ischemic lower limb is reviewed. The methods of classifying and assessing the cause, level, and severity of the arterial disease causing the ischemia are discussed with comparison of the relative merits of the various invasive and noninvasive techniques of investigation. The development of the methods of interventional radiological management is described with an indication of the relative success of the different techniques. Newer interventional developments, including intravascular brachytherapy and gene therapy are discussed.
Systemic Vasculitis
Authors: Jordan Kelsey M. , Cooper Cyrus
Published: April 2009

The systemic vasculitides are a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by inflammation of blood vessel walls. They can be classified according to the size of vessel affected and also into primary de novo vasculitides and secondary to other disease processes. Treatments differ and overlap depending on the type of vasculitis. It is therefore important to make the correct diagnosis and treat appropriately to achieve remission as there is a substantial mortality implication.
Leg Ulcers in the Tropics
Authors: Gupta Sanjeev K. , Shukla Vijay K.
Published: April 2009

Leg ulcers are an important clinical condition and are often difficult to treat. The treatment has to continue for long periods, and the associated morbidity leads to significant loss of work. The successful treatment of leg ulcers or chronic wounds depends upon accurate diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause. In Western societies, most leg ulcers are due to venous insufficiency, arterial disease, neuropathy (usually diabetic), or some combination of these factors. In tropical countries, however, there have been no large series of leg ulcers reported. The prevalence of leg ulcers and etiology are unknown. In this article, a short review is presented of the etiology and management of lower extremity ulcers as seen in the tropical countries.
Noninvasive Measurement Techniques for Monitoring of Microvascular Function in the Diabetic Foot
Authors: Cobb J. , Claremont D.
Published: April 2009

There are, currently, 3 established clinical techniques routinely employed to determine the risk of ulceration in the diabetic foot. These are assessment of the circulation, the nervous control of sensation, and foot sensitivity to loading. Macrovascular measurements are used to assess sufficiency of the arterial supply to the foot. Evaluation of somatic neuropathy provides an indication of loss of plantar sensation. Skin pressure measurements indicate abnormalities in plantar loading. This combined approach is effective in allowing preventative measures to be applied prior to the onset of ulceration. In contrast, clinical measurement of microvascular function in the diabetic foot is uncommon. Indeed, there remains uncertainty regarding the importance of micro-vascular complications in the development of foot ulcers. This is in part due to the difficulty of making in vivo measurements of microvascular function. This article evaluates 3 noninvasive measurement techniques for routine micro-vascular assessment of the diabetic foot: transcutaneous oxygen tension, laser Doppler flowmetry, and near-infrared spectroscopy. These techniques can be used to obtain useful parameters of microvascular function including surface oxygen, blood flow, intracellular oxygenation, and cellular respiration. In principle, such measurements can be related to underlying pathophysiology, for example, microangiopathy or autonomic neuropathy. This article considers how these general techniques can be adapted to support routine clinical measurement of microvascular function, particularly in the neuropathic diabetic foot.
Patient Compliance: Its Relevance to the Management of a Patient With Charcot’s Foot
Authors: Aldridge Roy , Jamali Mohammad , Guffey J. Stephen , Yates David A. , Ward Maurice
Published: April 2009

This case report discusses the challenges related to the management of a diabetic patient with Charcot’sfoot and a neuropathic foot ulcer. The patient received good coordinated care including foot pressure measurements. The case is an example demonstrating that patient compliance is a determinant of treatment outcome.
Risk Factors for the Swollen Ankle and Their Management at Low Cost: Not Forgetting Lymphedema
Authors: Ryan Terence J.
Published: April 2009

Lymphedema is a common global problem that affects the lower limb. Lymphatics are the pathways for the traffic of the immune system as well as the drainage system of the skin. Disruption of the normal function of the lymph may lead to limb swelling often exacerbated by obesity and immobility. This article presents developments in understanding and suggests principles of management with a view to promoting debate about this neglected condition.
Mitochondrial Uptake of Sestamibi Distinguishes Between Normal, Inflammatory Breast Changes, Pre-Cancers, and Infiltrating Breast Cancer
Authors: Fleming Richard M.
Published: April 2009

The evaluation of breast tissue using nuclear imaging is dependent upon the delivery and uptake of the isotope by breast tissue. This is dependent upon blood flow to the breast and functioning mitochondria. This 2-part study investigated (1) differences in uptake of sestamibi when blood flow is enhanced (breast enhanced scintigraphy test [BEST]), and (2) differences in isotope uptake in normal (Nl) breast tissue, inflammatory changes in breast tissue (ICB), and breast cancer (CA). In the first part of the study, 10 women were compared using both Miraluma and BEST imaging; in the second part, 195 people were studied using BEST imaging only. The results were compared with histopathologic specimens. Little difference was noted between Miraluma and BEST imaging in the first part. Women with ICB showed a statistically significant ( P< .05) increase in isotope uptake using BEST imaging. This difference was even more significant ( P< .005) in women with CA. During the second part of the study, BEST imaging demonstrated an exponential increase in tracer uptake. When maximal count activity was compared, there was a statistically significant ( P<.001) difference between Nl and ICB, between ICB and atypia (A), and between A and CA. BEST imaging demonstrated significant increases in isotope delivery when compared with Miraluma imaging. These differences allowed differentiation of breast tissue, including the detection of early changes in breast tissue.
Breast Enhanced Scintigraphy Testing Distinguishes Between Normal, Inflammatory Breast Changes, and Breast Cancer: A Prospective Analysis and Comparison With Mammography
Authors: Fleming Richard M. , Dooley William C.
Published: April 2009

The detection of breast cancer has primarily focused on anatomic findings, whereas assessment of physiologic information using nuclear imaging has been used for the detection of heart disease. Using this approach, the authors developed a method (breast enhanced scintigraphy test [BEST]) for differentiation of breast tissue by enhancing the delivery of isotope. To determine if this technique could distinguish between normal (Nl), inflammatory changes of the breast (ICB), and breast cancer (CA), 100 women were prospectively studied using BEST imaging, and results were compared with mammography and pathology findings using either biopsy or ductoscopy approaches. Mammography demonstrated a sensitivity and specificity of 69% and 84%, respectively. Using BEST imaging, maximal count activity (MCA) was able to distinguishbetween Nl, ICB, and CA. The results of 2-tailed ttest analysis demonstrated statistically significant differences between Nl and ICB MCA ( P ≤ .001); ICB and CA MCA ( P ≤ .001); and N1 and CA MCA ( P ≤ .001). Using MCA results obtained via BEST imaging, breast tissue was able to be differentiated, whereas mammography was able to detect breast cancer in only 69% of cases and incorrectly identified cancer in 16% of cases.
Integration of Herbal Medicine Into Modern Medical Practices: Issues and Prospects
Authors: Fong Harry H. S.
Published: April 2009

The integration of herbal medicine into modern medical practices including cancer treatments must take into account the interrelated issues of quality, safety, and efficacy. Quality is the paramount issue because it can affect the efficacy and/or safety of the herbal products being used. Current product quality ranges from very high to very low due to intrinsic, extrinsic, and regulatory factors. Intrinsically, species differences, organ specificity, diurnal and seasonal variations can affect the qualitative and quantitative accumulation of active chemical constituents in the source medicinal plants. Extrinsically, environmental factors; field collection methods such as cultivation, harvest, post-harvest transport and storage; manufacturing practices; inadvertent contamination and substitution; and intentional adulteration are contributing factors to the quality of herbal medicinal products. Source plant materials that are contaminated with microbes, microbial toxins, environmental pollutants, or heavy metals; or finished products that are adulterated with foreign toxic plants or synthetic pharmaceutical agents can lead to adverse events. Substandard source materials or finished products will yield therapeutically less effective agents. Herbal medicine quality can also be attributed to regulatory practices. In a number of countries, herbal medicines are unregulated, which has led to product quality differences. Product quality improvement may be achieved by implementing control measures from the point of medicinal plant procurement under good agricultural practices (GAPs) and the manufacture of the finished botanical products under good manufacturing practices (GMPs), plus post-marketing quality assurance surveillance. The lack of pharmacological and clinical data on the majority of herbal medicinal products is a major impediment to the integration of herbal medicines into conventional medical practices. For valid integration, pharmacological and especially, clinical studies, must be conducted on those plants lacking such data. Adverse events, including drug-herb interaction must also be monitored to promote a safe integration of efficacious herbal medicine into conventional medical practices.
Modified Constraint-Induced Therapy after Subacute Stroke: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Page Stephen J. , Sisto SueAnn , Johnston Mark V. , Levine Peter
Published: April 2009

Objective: To determine the efficacy of a modified constraint-induced therapy (mCIT) administered to patients with subacute stroke. Design: Prospective, multiple-baseline, before-after, randomized clinical trial. Setting: Subacute outpatient clinic. Subjects: Fourteen patients with subacute stroke who exhibited learned nonuse and stable motor deficits in their affected upper limbs. Intervention: Four patients participated in half-hour, structured physical and occupational therapy sessions that emphasized affected arm use in valued functional activities, 3 times per week for 10 weeks. Their less affected upper limbs were restrained 5 days per week during 5 hours identified as times of frequent use (mCIT). Five patients received regular therapy (TR) with similar therapeutic contact time to mCIT, and 5 patients received no therapy (CON). Main Outcome Measures: The Fugl-Meyer Assessment of Motor Recovery (Fugl), Action Research Arm (ARA) test, and Motor Activity Log (MAL). Results: After intervention, Fugl, ARA, and MAL scores remained virtually the same for TR and CON groups; scores improved by 11.4 and 11.5 points, respectively, on the Fugl and ARA for the mCIT group. Amount and quality of arm use, as measured by the MAL, also improved for mCIT patients (2.49 and 0.47, respectively). Conclusions: mCIT may be an efficacious method of improving affected arm function and use in stroke patients exhibiting learned nonuse.
Issues and Practices in Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Burks Jack S. , Arnason Barry G. , Coyle Patricia K. , Ford Corey C. , Noronha Avertano , Rammohan Kottil W.
Published: April 2009

The objective of this roundtable discussion of experts in the field of multiple sclerosis (MS) was to summarize the current understanding of MS and its therapeutic options. The experts discussed subjects ranging from the etiology of MS to the current standards for patient care. Specific topics included the subtypes of MS, with a focus on the benign subtype, brain atrophy, the role of magnetic resonance imaging or “neuroimaging studies,” disease-modifying therapies, biological markers as indicators of drug efficacy, and combination therapies. In addition, the experts speculated as to what will be available in the near future for the improved diagnosis and management of MS. This review summarizes the main points of this discussion and is intended to serve as a reference for neurologists involved in the care of patients with MS.
The Relationships Between the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale and Lower Extremity Functional Performance in Persons With Early-Stage Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Song Jooeun , Fisher Beth E. , Petzinger Giselle , Wu Allan , Gordon James , Salem George J.
Published: April 2009

Background. The Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) is the “gold standard” assessment tool for characterizing impairments in persons with Parkinson’s disease (PD); however, this scale’s ability to predict functional capabilities across different functional tasks has not been adequately assessed in persons with early-stage PD. Methods. Thirty persons with PD within 3 years of diagnosis and without motor fluctuation performed self-selected walking, fast walking, and sit-to-stand and stair-climbing tasks. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to calculate correlations with a standard UPDRS examination ( P < .05). Simple linear regression models were used to fit each functional performance outcome measure with the UPDRS total predictor scores. Results. The correlations between the UPDRS motor (section III), UPDRS total scores, and all timed functional performance measures were fair to good (range, 0.45-0.57). Conversely, only greater self-selected time to walk 50 ft correlated with a higher UPDRS activities of daily living (II) score ( r = .386; P < .05). Conclusions. The UPDRS motor (III) and total scores may be good predictors of overall lower extremity function in persons with early-stage PD. Understanding the relationships between UPDRS scores and functional capabilities may allow clinicians to better quantify early physical functioning, longitudinally assess disease progression, and assess the efficacy of interventions.
Debating the Euro
Authors: Werder Olaf
Published: April 2009

Coverage of the introduction of the Euro currency was analyzed in the leading news publications in the UK and Germany. Specifically, it was examined whether (1) coverage of the same cross-national issue differed in level of support and (2) the two national media applied different news frames. The study showed that the British print media opposed the Euro even with pro-Euro sources, whereas the German print media maintained neutrality. The British press used an episodic, while the German press employed a thematic style. The difference in styles allowed for different covering of subissues. Overall, the findings point to the fruitfulness of including story frames (news style) and media position in the international agenda-setting process. There seems to be, in general, an interesting relationship between media position, sources' position, news frame styles, subissues and issue effect. Discernible differences in the journalistic product between national news print media appear ultimately to be a result of different worldviews and identity concepts, influencing the agenda-setting effect.
Radio, Politics and Trust in Afghanistan
Authors: Skuse Andrew
Published: April 2009

This article examines the sociohistorical role of radio broadcasting in Afghanistan and analyses the interplay between the radio choices of the audience, political change and conflict. Though never explicitly trusted as a credible information source, the popularity of national radio in Afghanistan was critically weakened following the Communist revolution of 1978 and subsequent abuse of broadcasting under successive Afghan Communist regimes. Analysis highlights how the audience's thirst for unbiased information resulted in a substantial majority turning to the BBC World Service, this international service being perceived as a far more trustworthy and credible alternative. Discussion of the social history of Radio Afghanistan, the Taliban's Voice of Radio Shari'at and the BBC World Service serves to highlight the propagandist media machinery of the Communist era, the radical media policies of the Taliban regime and the value attributed to the BBC's current news reporting. In an example of the global becoming the local, the article concludes by examining how the BBC World Service has become the dominant radio broadcaster in Afghanistan and the extent to which this position is based on the quality of their outputs or their self-promotional discourses concerning impartiality.
Media and Communications as the Vehicle of the Open Society
Authors: Zassoursky Yassen N.
Published: April 2009

The terrorist attack against the United States presented the global community with a new crisis of gigantic proportions, with a new threat to the open society and human civilization. Sir Karl Popper developed the concept of the `open society' after the defeat of Fascist totalitarianism. Mikhail Gorbachev's concept of glasnost has became a major factor in the defeat of one of the main enemies of the open society — Stalinist totalitarianism and authoritarianism at the end of the 20th century. Now it is the turn to fight terrorism, extremism, fanaticism, intolerance, fundamentalism and totalitarianism in the framework of a global, interdependent conglomerate of nations. And this poses new challenges to the open society, which can be solved only in a global context.
The Locals Strike Back?
Authors: Banerjee Indrajit
Published: April 2009

The global market for cultural commodities has been characterized by profound imbalances and deepening processes of consolidation and concentration. Although these trends continue to be prominent features of the global media landscape, this article argues that its implications are not as damaging for local and national cultures as many theorists have claimed. First, recent theoretical and critical analyses of media and their impact on cultures reveal that cultural change has to be understood as a dynamic articulation between local and transcultural forces. Moreover, cultures are far more resilient than proclaimed and find numerous ways to diffuse and rejuvenate themselves. Second, and this is perhaps the main focus of the present article, recent developments in broadcasting across the world challenge the very basis of media and cultural imperialism theories and discourses. This challenge is raised by the significant growth in local and regional television production and programming, which is spurred on by the constitution of cultural diasporas.
Uterine Artery Doppler and Its Value in Predicting Preeclampsia
Authors: Digiacinto Dora , Graves Mandy
Published: April 2009

Prematurity is the leading cause of fetal morbidity and mortality. One of the most common reasons for women to have preterm delivery is due to a condition called preeclampsia. Early detection of preeclampsia is key to providing the best obstetric care and lessening the chance of maternal or fetal demise. The problem has been finding accurate ways to detect or predict women who will develop preeclampsia so that they can be closely monitored before the actual symptoms occur. Uterine artery Doppler has been shown to predict pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. Investigators have shown that many women who develop preeclampsia have abnormal Doppler waveforms. Alone, uterine artery Doppler shows promise but is more accurate when combined with maternal factors such as maternal health history and first-trimester pregnancy-associated plasma protein—A values.
On the First Passage time for Brownian Motion Subordinated by a Lévy Process
Authors: Hurd T. R. , Kuznetsov A.
Published: April 2009

In this paper we consider the class of Lévy processes that can be written as a Brownian motion time changed by an independent Lévy subordinator. Examples in this class include the variance-gamma (VG) model, the normal-inverse Gaussian model, and other processes popular in financial modeling. The question addressed is the precise relation between the standard first passage time and an alternative notion, which we call the first passage of the second kind, as suggested by Hurd (2007) and others. We are able to prove that the standard first passage time is the almost-sure limit of iterations of the first passage of the second kind. Many different problems arising in financial mathematics are posed as first passage problems, and motivated by this fact, we are led to consider the implications of the approximation scheme for fast numerical methods for computing first passage. We find that the generic form of the iteration can be competitive with other numerical techniques. In the particular case of the VG model, the scheme can be further refined to give very fast algorithms.
PP2A regulates BMP signalling by interacting with BMP receptor complexes and by dephosphorylating both the C-terminus and the linker region of Smad1
Authors: Bengtsson Luiza , Schwappacher Raphaela , Roth Martin , Boergermann Jan H. , Hassel Sylke , Knaus Petra
Published: April 2009

Phosphorylation of Smads is a crucial regulatory step in the signal transduction pathway initiated by bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs). Although the dephosphorylation events terminating the pathway in the nucleus have been characterized, little is known about the dephosphorylation of Smads in the cytoplasm. In a proteomic screen for proteins interacting with the BMP type-II receptor, we found the regulatory Bβ subunit of PP2A. PP2A is one of the major serine/threonine phosphatases involved in cell-cycle regulation and signal transduction. Here, we present data showing that the Bβ subunit of PP2A interacts with both BMP type-I and type-II receptors. Furthermore, we demonstrate that several B subunits can associate with the BMP type-II receptor, independently of the kinase activity of the receptor and the catalytic subunit of PP2A. By contrast, the PP2A catalytic subunit is required for PP2A function at the receptor complex. This function of PP2A is the dephosphorylation of Smad1, mainly in the linker region. PP2A-mediated dephosphorylation of the BMP-Smad linker region leads to increased nuclear translocation of Smads and overall amplification of the BMP signal. Although other phosphatases identified within the BMP pathway are all shown to inhibit signalling, PP2A is the first example for a signalling stimulatory phosphatase within this pathway.
Effect of Magnesium L-Lactate on Blood Pressure in Patients with an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: Baker William L , Kluger Jeffrey , White C Michael , Dale Krista M , Silver Burton B , Coleman Craig I
Published: April 2009

Background:

Previous studies have evaluated the impact of oral magnesium on blood pressure; however, they used magnesium salts with low bioavailability, had methodological issues, and showed differing results.

Objective:

To evaluate the long-term blood pressure–lowering ability of oral magnesium L-lactate versus placebo in patients with implanted cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).

Methods:

In this double-blind, 24-week trial, 50 patients with ICDs were randomized to receive magnesium L-lactate (6 tablets daily, supplying a total of 504 mg of elemental magnesium daily) or matching placebo for at least 12 weeks. Baseline intracellular and serum magnesium concentrations were determined. The primary efficacy endpoint was the mean sitting systolic blood pressure at 24 weeks.

Results:

In 50 patients who completed at least 12 weeks of follow-up, 86% of patients, regardless of randomization, had a baseline intracellular magnesium deficiency, but no patients had a serum magnesium deficiency. At 12 weeks, magnesium L-lactate significantly reduced systolic blood pressure compared with placebo (117.7 ± 11.8 vs 126.3 ± 16.7 mm Hg, respectively; p = 0.04). In the 45 patients who continued in the study through the 24-week time period, the systolic blood pressure reduction was maintained, but statistical significance was lost (118.1 ± 14.1 vs 125.5 ± 17.2 mm Hg, respectively; p = 0.13). Magnesium L-lactate did not impact diastolic blood pressure at either time period (p ≥ 0.75 for both). Patients with a documented history of hypertension at baseline showed similar qualitative results to the primary analysis.

Conclusions:

A large number of subjects with ICDs have an intracellular magnesium deficiency not captured through serum magnesium determination. The use of magnesium L-lactate in patients with an ICD results in significant improvement in systolic blood pressure at 12 weeks, which may be maintained through 24 weeks.
Type 1 Diabetes in Young Rats Leads to Progressive Trabecular Bone Loss, Cessation of Cortical Bone Growth, and Diminished Whole Bone Strength and Fatigue Life
Authors: Silva Matthew J , Brodt Michael D , Lynch Michelle A , McKenzie Jennifer A , Tanouye Kristi M , Nyman Jeffry S , Wang Xiaodu
Published: April 2009

People with diabetes have increased risk of fracture disproportionate to BMD, suggesting reduced material strength (quality). We quantified the skeletal effects of type 1 diabetes in the rat. Fischer 344 and Sprague-Dawley rats (12 wk of age) were injected with either vehicle (Control) or streptozotocin (Diabetic). Forelimbs were scanned at 0, 4, 8, and 12 wk using pQCT. Rats were killed after 12 wk. We observed progressive osteopenia in diabetic rats. Trabecular osteopenia was caused by bone loss: volumetric BMD decreased progressively with time in diabetic rats but was constant in controls. Cortical osteopenia was caused by premature arrest of cortical expansion: cortical area did not increase after 4–8 wk in diabetic rats but continued to increase in controls. Postmortem μCT showed a 60% reduction in proximal tibial trabecular BV/TV in diabetic versus control rats, whereas moments of inertia of the ulnar and femoral diaphysis were reduced ∼30%. Monotonic bending tests indicated that ulna and femora from diabetic animals were ∼25% less stiff and strong versus controls. Estimates of material properties indicated no changes in elastic modulus or ultimate stress but modest (∼10%) declines in yield stress for diabetic bone. These changes were associated with a ∼50% increase in the nonenzymatic collagen cross-link pentosidine. Last, cyclic testing showed diminished fatigue life in diabetic bones at the structural (force) level but not at the material (stress) level. In summary, type 1 diabetes, left untreated, causes trabecular bone loss and a reduction in diaphyseal growth. Diabetic bone has greatly increased nonenzymatic collagen cross-links but only modestly reduced material properties. The loss of whole bone strength under both monotonic and fatigue loading is attributed mainly to reduced bone size.
Interferon-γ and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Mediate the Upregulation of Indoleamine 2,3-Dioxygenase and the Induction of Depressive-Like Behavior in Mice in Response to Bacillus Calmette-Guérin
Authors: O'Connor Jason C. , André Caroline , Wang Yunxia , Lawson Marcus A. , Szegedi Sandra S. , Lestage Jacques , Castanon Nathalie , Kelley Keith W. , Dantzer Robert
Published: April 2009

Although the tryptophan-degrading enzyme, indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), is a pivotal mediator of inflammation-induced depression, its mechanism of regulation has not yet been investigated in this context. Here, we demonstrate an essential role for interferon (IFN)γ and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)α in the induction of IDO and depressive-like behaviors in response to chronic immune activation. Wild-type (WT) control mice and IFNγR−−mice were inoculated with an attenuated form ofMycobacterium bovis, bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG). Infection with BCG induced an acute episode of sickness that was similar in WT and IFNγR−−mice. Increased immobility during the forced swim and tail suspension tests occurred in WT mice 7 d after BCG inoculation but was entirely absent in IFNγR−−mice. In WT mice, these indices of depressive-like behavior were associated with chronic upregulation of IFNγ, interleukin(IL)-1β, TNFα, and IDO. Proinflammatory cytokine expression was elevated in BCG-infected IFNγR−−mice as well, but upregulation of lung and brain IDO mRNA was completely abolished. This was accompanied by an attenuation of BCG-induced TNFα mRNA and the lack of an increase in plasma kynurenine/tryptophan ratio in the BCG-inoculated IFNγR−−mice compared with WT controls. Pretreatment of mice with the TNFα antagonist, etanercept, partially blunted BCG-induced IDO activation and depressive-like behavior. In accordance with thesein vivodata, IFNγ and TNFα synergized to induce IDO in primary microglia. Together, these data demonstrate that IFNγ, with TNFα, is necessary for induction of IDO and depressive-like behavior in mice after BCG infection.
Variant BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism Affects Extinction of Conditioned Aversive Memory
Authors: Yu Hui , Wang Yue , Pattwell Siobhan , Jing Deqiang , Liu Ting , Zhang Yun , Bath Kevin G. , Lee Francis S. , Chen Zhe-Yu
Published: April 2009

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays important roles in activity-dependent plasticity processes, such as long-term potentiation, learning, and memory. The recently reported human BDNF Val66Met (BDNFMet) polymorphism has been shown to lead to altered hippocampal volume and impaired hippocampal-dependent memory and is associated with a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders. There are few studies, however, that investigate the effect of the BDNFMetpolymorphism on hippocampal-independent memory processes. A conditioned taste aversion (CTA) task was used for studying the mechanisms of long-term, hippocampal-independent, nondeclarative memory in the mammalian brain. Using the CTA paradigm, we found a novel impairment in extinction learning, but not acquisition or retention, of aversive memories resulting from the variant BDNFMet. BDNFMetmice were slower to extinguish an aversive CTA memory compared with wild-type counterparts. Moreover, the BDNFMetwas associated with smaller volume and decreased neuronal dendritic complexity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), which plays a significant role in extinction of CTA. Finally, this delay in extinction learning could be rescued pharmacologically with a cognitive enhancer,d-cycloserine (DCS). To our knowledge, this is the first evidence that the BDNFMetpolymorphism contributes to abnormalities in memory extinction. This abnormality in extinction learning may be explained by alterations in neuronal morphology, as well as decreased neural activity in the vmPFC. Importantly, DCS was effective in rescuing this delay in extinction, suggesting that when coupled with behavior therapy, DCS may be an effective treatment option for anxiety disorders in humans with this genetic variant BDNF.
RNA polymerase II interacts with the Hspa1b promoter in mouse epididymal spermatozoa
Authors: Wilkerson Donald C , Sarge Kevin D
Published: April 2009

TheHspa1b(Hsp70.1) gene is one of the first genes expressed after fertilization, with expression occurring during the minor zygotic genome activation (ZGA) in the absence of stress. This expression can take place in the male pronucleus as early as the one-cell stage of embryogenesis. The importance of HSPA1B for embryonic viability during times of stress is supported by studies showing that depletion of this protein results in a significant reduction in embryos developing to the blastocyte stage. Recently, we have begun addressing the mechanism responsible for allowing expression ofHspa1bduring the minor ZGA and found that heat shock transcription factor (HSF) 1 and 2 bind theHspa1bpromoter during late spermatogenesis. In this report, we have extended those studies using western blots and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays and found that RNA polymerase II (Pol II) is present in epididymal spermatozoa and bound to theHspa1bpromoter. These present results, in addition to our previous results, support a model in which the binding of HSF1, HSF2, SP1, and Pol II to the promoter ofHspa1bwould allow the rapid formation of a transcription-competent state during the minor ZGA, thereby allowingHspa1bexpression.
Prevalence of Stalking Victimization in Journalists: An E-Mail Survey of German Journalists
Authors: Gass Peter , Martini Marina , Witthöft Michael , Bailer Josef , Dressing Harald
Published: April 2009

Certain professionals, such as health care personnel, have a higher risk of stalking victimization because of their professional activities. This study analyzed the lifetime prevalence of stalking victimization for journalists because they belong to a professional group that often works in public, demonstrates personal attitudes and opinions, and thus may easily become objects for positive or negative transferences. Four hundred and ninety-three journalists answered a standardized Internet questionnaire on stalking victimization. Twelve percent of respondents reported common stalking due to nonprofessional reasons, and an additional 2.2% reported apparently job-related stalking. In contrast to common stalking, job-related stalking victims were mostly male and took the perpetration less seriously, although they had the same risk of suffering violence and aggressive attacks. Since stalking can cause severe psychological distress in victims and some cases are at high risk for aggressive violence, better information for this professional group is necessary. Primary and secondary preventive strategies should be considered.
Evaluation of mucosal and seborrheic sites for staphylococci in two populations of captive psittacines
Authors: Briscoe Jeleen A. , Morris Daniel O. , Rosenthal Karen L. , Shofer Frances S. , Rankin Shelley C.
Published: April 2009

Objective—To survey 2 populations of psittacines to characterize Staphylococcus spp isolated from commensal cutaneous microflora.

Design—Prospective cross-sectional study.

Animals—107 psittacine birds from a sanctuary and 73 psittacine birds in private households or a pet store.

Procedures—Gram-positive, catalase-positive cocci isolated from mucosal and seborrheic sites were speciated, and pulsed-field gel electrophoresis was performed on coagulase-positive isolates. A bird was classified as having positive results when at least 1 sample site yielded positive results for at least 1 staphylococcal species.

Results—89 of 180 (49.4%) birds had positive results for staphylococci at the carriage sites sampled. Privately owned birds were twice as likely to have positive results for staphylococci as were sanctuary birds (71% vs 35%). Coagulase-positive staphylococci were significantly more common in the sanctuary birds (47% vs 1%). Staphylococcus intermedius was significantly more common in the sanctuary birds (46% vs 2%). Staphylococcus hominis subsp hominis and Staphylococcus epidermidis, coagulase-negative staphylococci associated with humans, were significantly more common in pet birds. Cockatoos were twice as likely to have positive results for staphylococci as were other genera.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that staphylococcal colonization in captive psittacines was less common than in other species studied. Staphylococci isolated from a pet psittacine may reflect that of the humans and other animals with which the bird lives in close proximity; however, further studies are needed to evaluate the effects exposure to humans may have on the microflora of these birds.
Long thoracic neuropathy caused by an apical pulmonary tumor
Authors: Toshkezi Gentian , Dejesus John , Jabre Joe F. , Hohler Anna , Davies Keith
Published: April 2009

Long thoracic nerve palsy has been reported to have traumatic, iatrogenic, and idiopathic causes. The authors describe the case of a 62-year-old man who presented with progressively worsening right shoulder pain, winging of the scapula, and Horner syndrome. A chest CT scan revealed an apical pulmonary mass. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a long thoracic nerve palsy caused by an apical pulmonary tumor.
A personal consecutive series of surgically treated 51 cases of insular WHO Grade II glioma: advances and limitations
Authors: Duffau Hugues
Published: April 2009

Object

Few experiences of insular surgery have been reported. Moreover, there are no large surgical studies with long-term follow-up specifically dedicated to WHO Grade II gliomas involving the insula. In this paper, the author describes a personal consecutive series of 51 cases in which patients underwent surgery for an insular Grade II glioma. On the basis of the functional and oncological results, advances and limitations of this challenging surgery are discussed.

Methods

Fifty-one patients harboring an insular Grade II glioma (revealed by seizures in 50 cases) underwent surgery. Findings on preoperative neurological examination were normal in 45 patients (88%). All surgeries were conducted under cortico-subcortical stimulation, and in the case of 16 patients while awake.

Results

Despite an immediate postoperative worsening in 30 cases (59%), the condition of all but 2 patients (96%) returned to baseline or better. Postoperative MR imaging demonstrated that 77% of resections were total or subtotal. Ten patients underwent a second or third surgery, with no additional deficit. Forty-two patients (82%) are alive with a median follow-up of 4 years.

Conclusions

This is the largest reported experience with insular Grade II glioma surgery. The better knowledge of the insular pathophysiology and the use of intraoperative functional mapping allow the risk of permanent deficit to be minimized (and even enable improvement in quality of life) while increasing the extent of resection and thus the impact on the course of the disease. Therefore, surgical removal must always be considered for insular Grade II glioma. However, this surgery remains challenging, especially within the anterior perforating substance and the posterior part of the (dominant) insula. Additional surgery can be suggested in cases in which the first resection is not complete.
A Modified TILLING Method for Wheat Breeding
Authors: Dong Chongmei , Dalton‐Morgan Jessica , Vincent Kate , Sharp Peter
Published: April 2009

The large genome and polyploidy of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) makes it difficult to identify desirable genetic changes based on phenotypic screening due to gene redundancy. Forward genetics is, therefore, more difficult in wheat than in diploid plants. A modified TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions IN Genomes) method including the harvest of five heads per M1 plant, storage of M2 seeds, using unlabeled primers and agarose gels for mutation detection, and crossing of useful mutants for desired grain quality was explored in this report. A soft wheat cultivar, QAL2000, and a hard wheat cultivar, Ventura, were mutagenized with ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS). Screening of the waxy genes Wx‐A1 and Wx‐D1 in 2348 EMS‐treated M2 plants allowed identification of 121 mutants, including silent, missense, and knockout (truncation) mutations. A complete waxy wheat was successfully bred in 18 mo by crossing two truncation mutants (Wx‐A1‐truncation and Wx‐D1‐truncation; Wx‐B1 is naturally null in both mutants). Screening of two puroindoline genes (Pina and Pinb) in QAL2000 identified 19 mutants. A hard grain variant of a soft cultivar was identified due to a mutation in Pinb caused by a premature stop codon. Background mutations were observed and further self‐fertilization or crossing with a wild type was performed to eliminate deleterious mutations. With the rapid accumulation of wheat genomics information, many potential target genes of interest can be screened for mutations in these TILLING populations.
Generation of Monodisperse Inorganic–Organic Janus Microspheres in a Microfluidic Device
Authors: Prasad Naveen , Perumal Jayakumar , Choi Chang‐Hyung , Lee Chang‐Soo , Kim Dong‐Pyo
Published: April 2009

This study presents a simple synthetic approach for the in situ preparation of monodisperse hybrid Janus microspheres (HJM) having organic and inorganic parts in a PDMS‐based microfluidic device. Based on the mechanism of shear‐force‐driven break‐off, merged droplets of two photocurable oligomer solutions having distinctive properties are generated into an immiscible continuous phase. Functionalized perfluoropolyether (PFPE) as the organic phase and hydrolytic allylhydridopolycarbosilane (AHPCS) as the inorganic phase are used for the generation in aqueous medium of HJM with well‐defined morphology and high monodispersity (average diameter of 162 µm and a 3.5% coefficient of variation). The size and shape of the HJM is controlled by varying the flow rate of the disperse and continuous phases. The HJM have two distinctive regions: a hydrophobic hemisphere (PFPE) having a smooth surface and a relatively hydrophilic region (AHPCS) with a rough, porous surface. In addition, pyrolysis and subsequent oxidation of these HJM convert them into SiC‐based ceramic hemispheres through the removal of the organic portion and etching off the silica shell. The selective incorporation of magnetic nanoparticles into the inorganic part shows the feasibility of the forced assembly of HJM in an applied magnetic field.
Does altruism play a role in determining U.S. consumer preferences and willingness to pay for natural and regionally produced beef?
Authors: Umberger Wendy J. , Thilmany McFadden Dawn D. , Smith Amanda R.
Published: April 2009

An area of increasing differentiation among meat products relates to the source‐of‐origin and types of production methods used to raise the animals. Consumer data collected from a U.S. national online survey was used to estimate the factors helping explain consumers' willingness to purchase and pay a higher premium for two natural and regionally produced beef products: ground beef and USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) Choice rib eye steaks. Consumer preferences for natural and regionally produced beef are shown to be motivated by a combination of perceptions of personal benefits and altruistic factors. Additionally, the results of probit models indicate that the probability a consumer will pay more or less of a premium depends on purchase behavior and shopping location, stated importance of production attributes, awareness and interest in private and civic agricultural issues, in addition to some typical demographic variables such as income. [EconLit Citations: Q130, M130, Q180]. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.