bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Premature Ejaculation and Pharmaceutical Company-Based Medicine: The Dapoxetine Case
Authors: Waldinger Marcel D. , Schweitzer Dave H.
Published: March 2008

Introduction

The manufacturer of dapoxetine funded randomized clinical trials to study its effect in premature ejaculation (PE). Financial support by pharmaceutical companies, however, may jeopardize the neutrality of clinical research.

Aim

To investigate the scientific process that has been followed in dapoxetine treatment trials and reviews as compared to daily drug treatment trials and reviews with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) in men with PE.

Methods

A search of Medline and Embase was conducted using the search terms “dapoxetine” or “SSRI.” References of retrieved articles were searched. Only studies describing the use of these drugs in men with PE were included.

Main Outcome Measures

Compared fold-increase intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT), geometric mean IELT, and adverse effect profiles between dapoxetine and SSRIs in PE.

Results

Preclinical studies on dapoxetine, including a multicenter study (category A) and reviews (category B), were compared with clinical studies with daily conventional SSRIs in PE (category C). Categories A/B focused on patient-reported outcomes with less attention for the IELT. The ejaculation-delaying effect of dapoxetine was expressed as natural mean IELT rather than as geometrical mean IELT. Dapoxetine side effects were monthly scored. In contrast, a significant part of category C articles focused on IELT data, used geometric mean IELT outcomes, and one study reported the side effects measured 24–48 hours after drug intake using a validated questionnaire. Without the Food and Drug Administration approval, dapoxetine, as well as other SSRIs in PE, is an off-label drug for PE. However, the off-label use of dapoxetine has never been criticized by clinical investigators in contrast to commentaries against the off-label use of daily SSRI treatment in PE.

Conclusions

Manufacturer-funded drug treatment research (categories A and B) is advantageously treated by some authors as compared with nonfunded trials with daily conventional SSRIs (category C). PE drug treatment research is a young and dynamic field, and its development deserves transparency to its development.
The origin of molecular hydrogen emission in cooling-flow filaments
Authors: Ferland G. J. , Fabian A. C. , Hatch N. A. , Johnstone R. M. , Porter R. L. , Van Hoof P. A. M. , Williams R. J. R.
Published: March 2008

The optical filaments found in many cooling flows in galaxy clusters consist of low-density (∼103 cm−3) cool (∼103 K) gas surrounded by significant amounts of cosmic-ray and magnetic field energy. Their spectra show anomalously strong low-ionization and molecular emission lines when compared with Galactic molecular clouds exposed to ionizing radiation such as the Orion complex. Previous studies have shown that the spectra cannot be produced by O-star photoionization. Here, we calculate the physical conditions in dusty gas that is well shielded from external sources of ionizing photons and is energized either by cosmic rays or dissipative magnetohydrodynamics waves. Strong molecular hydrogen lines, with relative intensities similar to those observed, are produced. Selection effects introduced by the microphysics produce a correlation between the H2 line upper level energy and the population temperature. These selection effects allow a purely collisional gas to produce H2 emission that masquerades as starlight-pumped H2 but with intensities that are far stronger. This physics may find application to any environment where a broad range of gas densities or heating rates occur.
MODELING RHODOPSIN, A MEMBER OF G‐PROTEIN COUPLED RECEPTORS, BY COMPUTER GRAPHICS. INTERPRETATION OF CHEMICAL SHIFTS OF FLUORINATED RHODOPSINS
Authors: Mirzadegan Taraneh , Humblet Christine , Ripka William C. , Colmenares Leticia U. , Liu Robert S. H.
Published: March 2008

Abstract— An attempt has been made to construct a 3‐D model of rhodopsin, a member of G‐protein coupled receptors. Sequence homology of rhodopsin with the latter was a factor considered in the modeling procedure. The constructed model has been used to compare currently available specific protein/substrate interaction information, the shape of the binding cavity derived from shape of binding retinal isomers and analogs and challenged to explain recently available results from a series of fluorinated rhodopsins.
SOLVENT AND TEMPERATURE EFFECTS ON THE EXCITED SINGLET STATE ABSORPTION OF DIPHENYLBUTADIENE
Authors: Wallace‐Williams Stacie E. , Møller Søren , Hanson Kerry M. , Goldbeck Robert A. , Kliger David S. , Yee W. Atom
Published: March 2008

Abstract— Nanosecond excited state absorption spectra of all‐tram‐l,4‐diphenyl‐l,3‐butadiene (DPB) and a rigid s‐cis DPB analog, 1,4‐diphenyl‐l,3‐cyclopentadiene, were obtained in several hydrocarbon solvents at room temperature and low temperatures. Analysis of the excited state absorption spectra of these two molecules suggests the presence of excited state s‐cis rotamers in DPB at room temperature.
PHOTOISOMERIZATION OF SIXTEEN ISOMERS OF RETINAL. INITIAL PRODUCT DISTRIBUTION IN DIRECT AND SENSITIZED IRRADIATION. PHOTOCHEMISTRY OF POLYENES 31*
Authors: Ganapathy Srinivasan , Liu Robert S. H.
Published: March 2008

Abstract— Initial product distributions of all 16 geometric isomers of retinal in hexane solutions have been determined. With direct irradiation, the product ratios are characterized by a preference for isomerization at the 13,14‐bond. In particular, all isomers containing the 13‐cis geometry give the corresponding 13‐trans isomer as the major product. Preference for one‐photon‐one‐bond isomerization was also noted, although a substantial amount of the all‐trans isomer was detected for all poly‐cis, 13‐trans isomers. In sensitized irradiation, the initial mixture shows extensive one‐photon‐two(or multiple)‐bond isomerization to the corresponding unhindered isomers. In cases of hindered isomers, multiple‐bond isomerized products are dominant. The different results are accountable by the different shapes of the excited state potential curves for singlet and triplet states.
COMPARISON OF THE PATHWAYS AND QUANTUM YIELDS OF DIRECT PHOTOISOMERIZATION OF UNPROTONATED AND PROTONATED N‐BUTYLAMINE SCHIFF BASES OF ISOMERIC RETINYLIDENEACETALDEHYDE WITH THOSE OF SCHIFF BASES OF ISOMERIC RETINAL: RATIONALIZATION OF THE SELECTION OF THE RETINYLIDENE CHROMOPHORE BY RETINOCHROME
Authors: Mukai Yumiko , Imahori Takumi , Koyama Yasushi
Published: March 2008

Abstract— The pathways and quantum yields of direct photoisomerization of unprotonated and pro‐tonated n‐butylamine Schiff bases (SB and PSB) of isomeric retinylideneacetaldehyde (C22 aldehyde) were determined in n‐hexane, acetonitrile and methanol for the former and in acetonitrile and methanol for the latter. The results are compared with those of the Schiff bases of isomeric retinal (C20 SB and C20 PSB) reported previously (Koyama et al., Photochem. Photobiol. 54, 433–443, 1991). The isomerization pathways and quantum yields of C22 SB are more or less similar to those of C20 SB, but conspicuous differences in the isomerization pathways are found between C22 PSB and C20 PSB. The homogeneous (exclusive) isomerization of the retinylidene chromophore from all‐trum to 11‐cis in retinochrome is rationalized not by C22 PSB but by C20 PSB.

Almost complete one‐way isomerization from cis to trans of C22 SB (in n‐hexane) is ascribed to isomerization via the T1 state, while mutual isomeritation between cis and tram of C22 PSB is ascribed to isomerization via the S1 (Bu) state. The TI potential of C22 SB and the S1 potential of C22 PSB are discussed based on photostationary state compositions.
FEMTOSECOND STUDIES OF PRIMARY PHOTOPROCESSES IN OCTOPUS RHODOPSIN
Authors: Taiji Makoto , Bryl Krzysztof , Nakagawa Masashi , Tsuda Motoyuki , Kobayashi Takayoshi
Published: March 2008

Abstract—Femtosecond spectroscopy of octopus rhodopsin in H2O and D2O was performed over a very wide spectral region of 400–1000 nm. Transient gain and absorption from the excited state were observed for the first time around 650 and 700 nm, respectively, just after 300 fs pulse excitation. Bathorhodopsin was formed within 400 fs from the excited state; therefore, thecis‐transisomerization completes within 400 fs. The first intermediate “primerhodopsin” found in our previous paper is most likely “quasi‐thermal” bathorhodopsin, in which the local thermalization of the chromophore is achieved. Then cooling down of the chromophore to the surrounding protein temperature takes place with 20 ± 10 ps along with blue‐shifting of a spectrum of 10 ± 5 nm. In addition to these observations, a prominent gain in the region of > 850 nm was observed and decayed with 2–3 ps in H2O. A similar time constant was estimated for a partial decay of an induced absorption around 600 nm. This process may be related with two forms of bathorhodopsin reported previously. In this scheme, two forms of bathorhodopsin are formed with time constants of about 400 fs and 2 ps. In the sample in D2O, time constant of 3–4 ps was obtained for the slower process.
LIGHT ADAPTATION OF DARK‐ADAPTED BACTERIORHODOPSIN STUDIED BY NANOSECOND TIME‐RESOLVED ABSORPTION SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: Bryl Krzysztof , Taui Makoto , Yoshizawa Masayuki , Kobayashi Takayoshi
Published: March 2008

Abstract— The aim of the study is to clarify the mechanism of light adaptation of dark‐adapted bacteriorhodopsin. Double‐pulse experiment was carried out at room temperature in aqueous suspension of dark‐ and light‐adapted fragments of the purple membranes for different excitation laser light intensities. It is demonstrated that the route of light adaptation of the dark‐adapted bacteriorhodopsin depends on laser light intensity used.
MAGIC ANGLE SPINNING NMR STUDIES ON THE METARHODOPSIN II INTERMEDIATE OF BOVINE RHODOPSIN: EVIDENCE FOR AN UNPROTONATED SCHIFF BASE
Authors: Smith Steven O. , Groot Huub de , Gebhard Ronald , Lugtenburg Johan
Published: March 2008

Abstract— Magic angle spinning (MAS)W‐NMR spectra of the metarhodopsin II intermediate h been obtained using bovine rhodopsin regenerated with retinal 13C‐labeled at the C‐13 and C positions to investigate the protonation state of the retinal Schiff base linkage. The 13C‐labe rhodopsin was reconstituted into 1,2‐dipalmitoleoylphosphatidylcholine bilayers to increase the amo of meta II trapped at low temperature. Both the 13C‐15 (159.2 ppm) and 13C‐13 (144.0 ppm) isotropic chemical shifts are characteristic of an unprotonated Schiff base, while the “C‐15 shift is significantly different from that of retinal (191 ppm) or a tetrahedral carbinolamine group (70–90 ppm) previously proposed as an intermediate in the hydrolysis of the Schiff base at the meta II stage. This rules the possibility that meta II non‐covalently binds retinal or is a carbinolamine intermediate and provi convincing evidence that Schiff base deprotonation occurs in the meta I‐meta II transition, an ev that is likely to be important in triggering the activation of transducin.
ENERGETICS OF PROTONATION‐DEPROTONATION OF THE CHROMOPHORE IN RETINAL PROTEINS
Authors: Beppu Yoshitaka , Kakitani Toshiaki , Tokunaga Fumio
Published: March 2008

Abstract— We investigate the energetics of protonation and deprotonation of retinylidene Schiff‐base (SB) which is realized in the functioning of retinal proteins. We first calculate the energy difference ΔE between the protonated and unprotonated states of the SB by the ab initio molecular orbital method, using two kinds of molecular model; a counter‐ion model where a carboxyl group of Glu or Asp is directly hydrogen‐bonded to the SB, and a water‐bridge model where a water molecule bridges the carboxyl group and the SB. The calculated results indicate that the protonated SB state is unstable compared with the unprotonated SB state in either model. In addition, we find that coordination of some water molecules to the carboxyl group reduces ΔE significantly. The value of AE for the counterion model with two coordinated water molecules is 0.003 eV. Next, we calculate the electrostatic interaction energy between a tryptophan residue and the SB. We find that the protonated state is more stabilized than the unprotonated state by about 0.1 eV with one tryptophan residue. This fact indicates that if some aromatic amino acid residues work cooperatively, they can contribute to significantly reducing ΔE. We also discuss the possible role of amino acid residues which make hydrogen‐bond with the carboxyl group of interest.
ABSORPTION AND PHOTOCHEMISTRY OF SENSORY RHODOPSIN—I: pH EFFECTS
Authors: Olson Karl D. , Deval Padmaja , Spudich John L.
Published: March 2008

Abstract— Pyranine (8‐hydroxyl‐1,3,6‐pyrene‐trisulfonate) was used as a pH‐probe to test whether there is a light‐induced proton release to the bulk phase during the photochemical reaction cycle of sensory rhodopsin‐I (SR‐I). We conclude that the retinylidene Schiff‐base proton is retained by SR‐I‐containing envelope vesicles during the SR‐I photocycle under the conditions described here. Bacteriorhodopsin containing vesicles were used as a control to show that light‐induced proton release can be observed under identical data acquisition parameters as those used for SR‐I‐containing vesicles. In addition, the effects of extravesicular pH on the absorption maximum (Λmax) and the SR‐I photocycle were studied. SR‐I properties are insensitive to pH in the range ˜3 to ˜8 with Λmax remaining at 587 nm. The Λmax shifts to 565 nm below pH 3.0 and to 552 nm at pH 10.8 with an apparent pKa of 8.5. Flash‐induced absorbance changes of SR‐I are described under neutral, alkaline and acidic conditions. The neutral, alkaline and acid SR‐I forms each undergo similar photoreactions producing long‐lived (>500 ms decay half‐time) blue‐shifted intermediates. The UV/near‐UV absorption of the photoproducts from neutral and alkaline SR‐I indicate a deprotonated Schiff base, whereas acid SR‐I produces a species with Λmax > 460 nm indicative of a protonated Schiff base.
What is your diagnosis? Particulate material in peritoneal fluid from a dog
Authors: Renschler Janelle , Tarigo Jaime , Neel Jennifer , Grindem Carol
Published: March 2008

Abstract:9‐year‐old castrated male Greyhound dog was presented for evaluation of vomiting and lethargy of 1‐week duration. On physical examination, the dog was febrile and dehydrated with a tense abdomen and petechial hemorrhages. Clinicopathologic abnormalities included relative polycythemia, mild lymphopenia with reactive lymphocytes, hypoalbuminemia, hypocholesterolemia, hyperbilirubinemia, increased ALP, mild hypokalemia, hyperamylasemia, hyperlipasemia, increased D‐dimer concentration, and hyperfibrinogenemia. Cytologic evaluation of peritoneal fluid revealed marked suppurative inflammation with intracellular barium sulfate particles. The day before presentation, the referring veterinarian had administered oral barium sulfate in an upper gastrointestinal contrast study. Radiographs revealed free contrast material in the peritoneal cavity, consistent with gastrointestinal perforation, and leakage of contrast material. Abdominal exploratory surgery revealed a mid‐jejunal perforation and a hepatic nodule. Histopathologic diagnosis of the jejunal and liver lesions was T‐cell lymphoma. The patient recovered well postoperatively and received chemotherapy for treatment of lymphoma. Most commercial barium sulfate preparations contain relatively uniform, weakly birefringent, pale yellow particles <1 μm in diameter. Because barium sulfate is found occasionally in clinical specimens, cytopathologists should be familiar with its cytologic appearance.
Expression of Bcl‐2 in feline lymphoma cell lines
Authors: Kano Rui , Sato Eimi , Okamura Tomotaka , Watanabe Shinichi , Hasegawa Atsuhiko
Published: March 2008

Background: The Bcl‐2 gene is a member of the rapidly expanding Bcl‐2 family of genes that regulate apoptosis. Bcl‐2 has been shown to repress cell death triggered by a diverse array of stimuli, including chemotherapy and gamma irradiation.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine feline Bcl‐2 expression level in feline lymphoma cells using an immunoblot assay with anti‐human and anti‐canine Bcl‐2 monoclonal antibodies.

Methods: About 708 base pairs containing the coding sequence of the feline Bcl‐2 gene were transformed into Escherichia coli. The recombinant Bcl‐2 was used as a positive control for an immunoblot assay using mouse monoclonal antibodies against human and canine Bcl‐2. An immunoblot assay using the monoclonal antibodies was carried out to determine the level of feline Bcl‐2 expression in lymphoma and lymphocytic leukemia cell lines.

Results: The recombinant feline Bcl‐2 protein produced in E. coli had a molecular weight of about 26 kDa and was detected by immunoblot assay by using anti‐human Bcl‐2 mouse monoclonal antibody. Feline Bcl‐2 expression was high in lymphoma cell lines (FL‐74‐UDC‐1 and FT‐1) and low in the cell line from peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a healthy cat (FeTJ‐1) but not low in freshly isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a healthy cat. The anti‐human Bcl‐2 mouse monoclonal antibody was found to cross‐react with feline Bcl‐2.

Conclusions: These results confirm the expression of Bcl‐2 in T‐cell lymphoma cell lines and indicate that it is suitable to detect feline Bcl‐2 using an immunoblot assay. Pending further evaluation, Bcl‐2 expression might be useful in the differential diagnosis of feline tumors.
Hypercalcemia associated with gastric pythiosis in a dog
Authors: LeBlanc Casey J. , Echandi Rita L. , Moore Rebecca R. , Souza Carlos , Grooters Amy M.
Published: March 2008

Abstract: A 20‐month‐old castrated male Labrador Retriever with a 3‐month history of anorexia, weight loss, and vomiting was evaluated. Plasma biochemical abnormalities included marked hyperglobulinemia and hypercalcemia. Serum levels of parathyroid hormone, parathyroid hormone‐related protein, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, and 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D were either low or within reference intervals. Gastric wall thickening and abdominal lymphadenomegaly were observed with abdominal ultrasonography. Cytologic evaluation of a sample obtained via fine‐needle aspiration of the gastric wall revealed pyogranulomatous inflammation and numerous poorly stained hyphae. Partial gastrectomy was performed, and a diagnosis of gastric pythiosis was made by immunohistochemical staining of infected gastric tissue, as well as by immunoblot serology. This case demonstrates that diagnostic samples for cytologic evaluation can be obtained by fine‐needle aspiration of Pythium insidiosum‐infected tissues and that a presumptive diagnosis can be made by examination of a Romanowsky‐stained smear. Furthermore, pythiosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for hypercalcemia, especially in young dogs with inflammatory lesions that have a granulomatous component. The mechanism for the hypercalcemia in this dog was not determined; however, calcium concentrations normalized after surgical resection of the gastric lesion.
Immunocytochemical differentiation of canine mesenchymal tumors in cytologic imprint preparations
Authors: Höinghaus R. , Hewicker‐Trautwein M. , Mischke R.
Published: March 2008

Background: Immunocytochemical techniques are a potentially valuable diagnostic tool to support cytologic diagnosis in dogs. However, detailed studies of staining patterns and intensity in cytologic specimens of mesenchymal tumor types are lacking.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate commercially available antibodies against human proteins for use in the characterization of canine tumors of mesenchymal origin in cytologic samples.

Methods: Immunocytochemical staining was performed on air‐dried imprint specimens of biopsies obtained from 103 mesenchymal neoplasms and 14 metastatic lesions from 98 dogs. All specimens were stained with anti‐cytokeratin AE1/AE3 and vimentin. Based on the histologic diagnosis, tumors of muscle, endothelial, histiocytic, and melanocytic origin also were stained with cell‐specific antibodies. Staining intensity was subjectively graded and the percentage of positive tumor cells was estimated.

Results: All mesenchymal tumors and metastases, with the exception of mesotheliomas, were vimentin‐positive and cytokeratin‐negative; mesotheliomas (n=6) were positive for both vimentin and cytokeratin. Tumors of muscle (n=5), endothelial (n=15), and histiocytic (n=18) origin stained moderately to strongly positive in a majority of tumor cells with desmin, von Willebrand factor, and lysozyme, respectively. Malignant melanomas (n=15) had variable staining and a variable percentage of positive cells with Melan‐A and S100.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that immunocytochemical staining of canine cytologic specimens is a reliable and sensitive technique that may be of benefit for the differentiation of poorly differentiated mesenchymal tumors and metastases. Additional study is needed to assess the specificity of immunocytochemical stains in mesenchymal tumors.
HIGHER-ORDER PLASMON RESONANCES IN GAN-BASED FIELD-EFFECT TRANSISTOR ARRAYS
Authors: POPOV V. V. , SHUR M. S. , TSYMBALOV G. M. , FATEEV D. V.
Published: March 2008

Terahertz (THz) response spectra of GaN-based field-effect transistor (FET) arrays are calculated in a self-consistent electromagmetic approach. Two types of FET arrays are considered: (i) FET array with a common channel and a large-area grating gate, and (ii) array of FET units with separate channels and combined intrinsic source and drain contacts. It is shown that the coupling between plasmons and THz radiation in the FET array can be strongly enhanced as compared to a single-unit FET. The computer simulations show that the higher-order plasmon modes can be excited much more effectively in the array of FET units with separate channels and combined source and drain contacts then in FET array with a common channel and a large-area grating gate.
EXACT SOLUTIONS OF THE MODIFIED KRATZER POTENTIAL PLUS RING-SHAPED POTENTIAL IN THE D-DIMENSIONAL SCHRÖDINGER EQUATION BY THE NIKIFOROV–UVAROV METHOD
Authors: IKHDAIR SAMEER M. , SEVER RAMAZAN
Published: March 2008

We present analytically the exact energy bound-states solutions of the Schrödinger equation in D dimensions for a recently proposed modified Kratzer plus ring-shaped potential by means of the Nikiforov–Uvarov method. We obtain an explicit solution of the wave functions in terms of hyper-geometric functions (Laguerre polynomials). The results obtained in this work are more general and true for any dimension which can be reduced to the well-known three-dimensional forms given by other works.
A CULTURAL MARKET MODEL
Authors: HERDAǦDELEN AMAÇ , BINGOL HALUK
Published: March 2008

Social interactions and personal tastes shape our consumption behavior of cultural products. In this study, we present a computational model of a cultural market and we aim to analyze the behavior of the consumer population as an emergent phenomena. Our results suggest that the final market shares of cultural products dramatically depend on consumer heterogeneity and social interaction pressure. Furthermore, the relation between the resulting market shares and social interaction is robust with respect to a wide range of variation in the parameter values and the type of topology.
EVIDENCE OF SCALE-FREE TOPOLOGY IN GENE REGULATORY NETWORK OF HUMAN TISSUES
Authors: ANDRECUT M. , KAUFFMAN S. A. , MADNI A. M.
Published: March 2008

We report the reconstruction of the topology of gene regulatory network in human tissues. The results show that the connectivity of the regulatory gene network is characterized by a scale-free distribution. This result supports the hypothesis that scale-free networks may represent the common blueprint for gene regulatory networks.
UNKNOTTING NUMBER OF THE CONNECTED SUM OF n IDENTICAL KNOTS
Authors: YANG ZHIQING
Published: March 2008

In this paper, we show that unknotting number of the connected sum of n identical knots k is at least n when k has nontrivial Alexander polynomial.
A LARGE DEVIATION FOR OCCUPATION TIME OF SUPER α-STABLE PROCESS
Authors: LI QIU-YUE , REN YAN-XIA
Published: March 2008

We derive a large deviation principle for occupation time of super α-stable process in ℝd with d > 2α. The decay of tail probabilities is shown to be exponential and the rate function is characterized. Our result can be considered as a counterpart of Lee's work on large deviations for occupation times of super-Brownian motion in ℝd for dimension d > 4 (see Ref. 10).
Maturation of Iron-Sulfur Proteins in Eukaryotes: Mechanisms, Connected Processes, and Diseases
Authors: Lill Roland , Mühlenhoff Ulrich
Published: March 2008

Iron-sulfur (Fe/S) proteins are involved in a wide variety of cellular processes such as enzymatic reactions, respiration, cofactor biosynthesis, ribosome biogenesis, regulation of gene expression, and DNA-RNA metabolism. Assembly of Fe/S clusters, small inorganic cofactors, is assisted by complex proteinaceous machineries, which use cysteine as a source of sulfur, combine it with iron to synthesize an Fe/S cluster on scaffold proteins, and finally incorporate the cluster into recipient apoproteins. In eukaryotes, such as yeast and human cells, more than 20 components are known that facilitate the maturation of Fe/S proteins in mitochondria, cytosol, and nucleus. These biogenesis components also perform crucial roles in other cellular pathways, e.g., in the regulation of iron homeostasis or the modification of tRNA. Numerous diseases including several neurodegenerative and hematological disorders have been associated with defects in Fe/S protein biogenesis, underlining the central importance of this process for life.
Skeletal muscle insulin resistance induced by adipocyte-conditioned medium: underlying mechanisms and reversibility
Authors: Sell Henrike , Eckardt Kristin , Taube Annika , Tews Daniel , Gurgui Mihaela , Van Echten-Deckert Gerhild , Eckel Jürgen
Published: March 2008

Insulin resistance in skeletal muscle is an early event in the development of diabetes, with obesity being one of the major contributing factors. In vitro, conditioned medium (CM) from differentiated human adipocytes impairs insulin signaling in human skeletal muscle cells, but it is not known whether insulin resistance is reversible and which mechanisms may underlie this process. CM induced insulin resistance in human myotubes at the level of insulin-stimulated Akt and GSK-3 phosphorylation. In addition, insulin-resistant skeletal muscle cells exhibit enhanced production of reactive oxygen species and ceramide as well as a downregulation of myogenic transcription factors such as myogenin and MyoD. However, insulin resistance was not paralleled by increased apopotosis. Regeneration of myotubes for 24 or 48 h after induction of insulin resistance restored normal insulin signaling. However, the expression level of myogenin could not be reestablished. In addition to decreasing myogenin expression, CM also decreased the release of IL-6 and IL-8 and increased monocyte chemotactic protein-1 (MCP-1) secretion from skeletal muscle cells. Although regeneration of myotubes reestablished normal secretion of IL-6, the release of IL-8 and MCP-1 remained impaired for 48 h after withdrawal of CM. In conclusion, our data show that insulin resistance in skeletal muscle cells is only partially reversible. Although some characteristic features of insulin-resistant myotubes normalize in parallel to insulin signaling after withdrawal of CM, others such as IL-8 and MCP-1 secretion and myogenin expression remain impaired over a longer period. Thus, we propose that the induction of insulin resistance may cause irreversible changes of protein expression and secretion in skeletal muscle cells.
Role of maternal glucocorticoid inducible kinase SGK1 in fetal programming of blood pressure in response to prenatal diet
Authors: Rexhepaj Rexhep , Boini Krishna M. , Huang Dan Yang , Amann Kerstin , Artunc Ferruh , Wang Kan , Brosens Jan J. , Kuhl Dietmar , Lang Florian
Published: March 2008

Maternal stress and malnutrition modify intrauterine fetal development with impact on postnatal blood pressure, nutrient, water, and electrolyte metabolism. The present study explored the possible involvement of maternal serum- and glucocorticoid-inducible kinase (SGK)-1 in fetal programming of blood pressure. To this end, wild-type ( sgk1+/+) male mice were mated with SGK1 knockout ( sgk1−/−) female mice, and sgk1−/− males with sgk1+/+ females, resulting in both cases in heterozygotic ( sgk1−/+) offspring. Following prenatal protein restriction, the offspring of sgk1+/+ mothers gained weight significantly slower and had significantly higher blood pressure after birth. Moreover, a sexual dimorphism was apparent in fasting blood glucose and plasma corticosterone concentrations, with higher levels in female offspring. In contrast, prenatal protein restriction of sgk1−/− mothers had no significant effect on postnatal weight gain, blood pressure, plasma glucose concentration, or corticosterone levels, irrespective of offspring sex. Plasma aldosterone concentration, urinary flow rates, and urinary excretions of Na+ and K+ were not significantly modified by either maternal genotype or nutritional manipulation. In conclusion, maternal signals mediated by SGK1 may play a decisive role in fetal programming of hypertension induced by prenatal protein restriction.
Visual Versus Motor Vector Inversions in the Antisaccade Task: A Behavioral Investigation With Saccadic Adaptation
Authors: Collins Thérèse , Vergilino-Perez Dorine , Delisle Laura , Doré-Mazars Karine
Published: March 2008

In the antisaccade task, subjects must execute an eye movement away from a visual target. Correctly executing an antisaccade requires inhibiting a prosaccade toward the visual target and programming a movement to the opposite side. This movement could be based on the inversion of the visual vector, corresponding to the distance between the fixation point and the visual target, or the motor vector of the unwanted prosaccade. We dissociated the two vectors by means of saccadic adaptation. Adaptation can be observed when systematic targeting errors are caused by the displacement of the visual target during the saccade. Adaptation progressively modifies saccade amplitude (defined by the motor vector) such that it becomes appropriate to the postsaccadic stimulus position and thus different from the visual vector of the target. If antisaccade preparation depended on visual vector inversion, rightward prosaccade adaptation should not transfer to leftward antisaccades (which are based on the same visual vector) but should transfer to rightward antisaccades (which are based on a visual vector inside the adaptation field). If antisaccade preparation depended on motor vector inversion, rightward prosaccade adaptation should transfer to leftward antisaccades (which are based on the same, adapted motor vector) but should not transfer to rightward antisaccades (which are based on a nonadapted motor vector). The results are in line with the first hypothesis, showing that vector inversion precedes saccadic adaptation and suggesting that antisaccade preparation depends on the inversion of the visual target vector.
Melanoma Markers in Marathon Runners: Increase with Sun Exposure and Physical Strain
Authors: Richtig Erika , Ambros-Rudolph Christina M. , Trapp Michael , Lackner Helmut K. , Hofmann-Wellenhof Rainer , Kerl Helmut , Schwaberger Guenther
Published: March 2008

Background: Marathon runners seem to have an increased melanoma risk. Objective: To identify potential melanoma markers. Methods: 150 marathon runners volunteered to take part in the skin cancer screening campaign. After the runners completed a questionnaire about melanoma risk factors, types of sportswear and training programs, they received a total skin examination. The number of lentigines and nevi on the left shoulder and the left buttock were counted in each participant using templates in standardized positions. The potential association of training sportswear and training parameters with the number of lentigines and nevi on the left shoulder was evaluated. Results: The mean number of lentigines on the left shoulder was 19.6 ± 18.2 (SD), whereas no lentigines were found on the left buttock (p = 0.000). The number of nevi also differed significantly between the 2 localizations with higher numbers on the left shoulder (p = 0.000). While lifetime sunburn history and type of sportswear correlated with the number of lentigines, training parameters had an impact on the number of nevi. Independent of their mean weekly running time, runners with higher heart rates while training, higher training velocities and higher physical strain indexes showed more nevi on the shoulder than the other runners (p = 0.029, 0.046, 0.038, respectively). Conclusion: Sun exposure and high physical strain lead to an increase in melanoma markers such as lentigines and nevi in marathon runners.
Chronic Hemicorporal Prurigo Related to a Posttraumatic Brown-Séquard Syndrome
Authors: Thielen A.-M. , Vokatch N. , Borradori L.
Published: March 2008

Focal pruritus may have a neurological cause. According to the underlying mechanism, two categories of central itch have been distinguished, neuropathic and neurogenic pruritus. We here describe a patient with Brown-Séquard syndrome related to unilateral damage of the spinal cord. The patient progressively developed neuropathic pruritus with chronic prurigo lesions showing strictly hemicorporal distribution. The patient was given pregabalin, an analogue of the neurotransmitter γ-aminobutyric acid,with significant improvement. Our observation of chronic prurigo with hemicorporal involvement is unique. It underscores the importance of a detailed neurological examination in case of persistent localized itch and further supports the idea that chronic prurigo reflects a neurological problem in a subset of affected patients. Antiepileptic drugs should be considered not only for neuropathic pain, but also for neuropathic itch.
A UVB Fingerprint Mutation on the p53 Tumor Suppressor Gene Decreases in vitro
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Burger Katharina , Hellwig Sven , Bergemann Jörg
Published: March 2008

The culture of tissue-derived human cells is an important aspect of tissue engineering. Prior to transplantation, the quality of the cultured cells/tissue should be routinely tested so that any enrichment of procarcinogenic cells can be excluded. On this account, a UVB-induced p53 fingerprint mutation would be a valuable quality control marker for skin cells cultured for use in tissue engineering. We developed an allele-specific real-time polymerase chain reaction assay based on SYBR Green which can quantitatively detect CC-TT transitions in the tumor suppressor gene p53. To analyze the transition 281/282, we used DNA from HaCaT cells, a keratinocyte cell line containing the investigated mutation, as a standard to determine the mutation frequency in cultured cutaneous cells. We analyzed a variety of skin cells grown in culture and found a notable decrease in the UVB fingerprint mutation in fibroblasts during proliferation. Furthermore, we quantified the total amount of mutated DNA in different cutaneous cells and detected a significantly higher level in melanocytes. These results are consistent with findings obtained in our laboratory concerning the common deletion, the most frequently reported mutation in the mitochondrial genome, which suggest a positive influence of prolonged in vitro cell proliferation on the quality of genomic DNA.
Hydraulic Interpretation of the Footprints of Sierra Nevada Windstorms Tracked with an Automobile Measurement System
Authors: Raab Thomas , Mayr Georg
Published: March 2008

This article reports results from the Sierra Rotors Project, which took place in the central part of Owens Valley, California, east of the Sierra Nevada in March and April 2004. The aim of the study is to describe the footprints of cross-mountain and downslope airflow by mobile surface measurements and radiosoundings. An instrumented car measured wind, temperature, pressure, and humidity. Four case studies cover the spectrum of forcings behind the foehn-like downslope windstorms. Hydraulic theory as a conceptual model was used to explain the data from the car in combination with radiosoundings. All four cases had a colder air mass on the upstream side, thus creating a hydrostatic pressure forcing. With weak flow parallel to the sierra, no downslope windstorm developed and a valley-slope circulation was documented, which for the first time related continuous pressure measurements to the thermal wind system. A second case with a stronger wind component perpendicular to the sierra caused the flow to plunge to the Owens Valley floor. Signatures indicating supercritical regions with accelerated flow reverting to a subcritical state in a hydraulic jump were found. In the third case, the flow separated from the lee slope and subsequently reattached. In the last case, a downslope windstorm developed ahead of a cold front. The downslope windstorm and cold front coexisted in the valley for several hours, with the latter being confined to its eastern side and the storm riding up over it.
Energetics of M2 Barotropic-to-Baroclinic Tidal Conversion at the Hawaiian Islands
Authors: Carter G. S. , Merrifield M. A. , Becker J. M. , Katsumata K. , Gregg M. C. , Luther D. S. , Levine M. D. , Boyd T. J. , Firing Y. L.
Published: March 2008

A high-resolution primitive equation model simulation is used to form an energy budget for the principal semidiurnal tide (M2) over a region of the Hawaiian Ridge from Niihau to Maui. This region includes the Kaena Ridge, one of the three main internal tide generation sites along the Hawaiian Ridge and the main study site of the Hawaii Ocean Mixing Experiment. The 0.01°–horizontal resolution simulation has a high level of skill when compared to satellite and in situ sea level observations, moored ADCP currents, and notably reasonable agreement with microstructure data. Barotropic and baroclinic energy equations are derived from the model’s sigma coordinate governing equations and are evaluated from the model simulation to form an energy budget. The M2 barotropic tide loses 2.7 GW of energy over the study region. Of this, 163 MW (6%) is dissipated by bottom friction and 2.3 GW (85%) is converted into internal tides. Internal tide generation primarily occurs along the flanks of the Kaena Ridge and south of Niihau and Kauai. The majority of the baroclinic energy (1.7 GW) is radiated out of the model domain, while 0.45 GW is dissipated close to the generation regions. The modeled baroclinic dissipation within the 1000-m isobath for the Kaena Ridge agrees to within a factor of 2 with the area-weighted dissipation from 313 microstructure profiles. Topographic resolution is important, with the present 0.01° resolution model resulting in 20% more barotropic-to-baroclinic conversion compared to when the same analysis is performed on a 4-km resolution simulation. A simple extrapolation of these results to the entire Hawaiian Ridge is in qualitative agreement with recent estimates based on satellite altimetry data.
Does Age Attenuate the Impact of Pleasant Ambient Scent on Consumer Response?
Authors: Chebat Jean-Charles , Morrin Maureen , Chebat Daniel-Robert
Published: March 2008

A large-scale field survey ( n = 592) was conducted in a suburban shopping mall to assess the impact of pleasant ambient scent on consumer spending as a function of shopper age. A citrus scent was systematically emitted into the shopping mall (or not) over several weeks, and as shoppers were about to exit the mall, they were intercepted to complete a survey. In the survey, respondents reported the amount of expenditures in the mall that day as well as their perceptions of the mall and demographic characteristics, such as age. The results indicate that shoppers spent significantly more in the mall with the presence of the pleasant ambient scent, but this result was true only among younger shoppers. Theoretical and practical implications of the reduced impact of ambient scent on older persons are discussed.
Educational Implications of Population Change in the United States
Authors: Edwards Newton P.
Published: March 2008

Much has been written about the imme diate impact of the increased birth rate upon the elementary schools and upon teacher supply-demand. The full impli cation of currently developing population changes has not been fully realized, how ever. Mr. Edwards, professor of educa tion in the University of Chicago and in the University of Texas, presents in this article a careful and scholarly analysis of the whole problem.
Implications of the 1950 National Study of Teacher Supply and Demand
Authors: Maul Ray C.
Published: March 2008

This article presents a summary report of the 1950 National Study of Teacher Supply and Demand, the third annual in vestigation of this problem conducted by the National Commission on Teacher Edu cation and Professional Standards under the direction of Mr. Maul, of State Teach ers College, Emporia, Kansas, who serves as Research Associate of the Commission. Reprints of this article are available from the National Commission offices, 1201 Sixteenth Street, Northwest, Wash ington 6, D. C. Separate printed copies of the complete report, with state-by-state figures, are also available from the Com mission.
A New Challenge for Educational Psychology
Authors: Spalding Willard B.
Published: March 2008

Although this pointed analysis of the Place of educational psychology in the dis ciplines of higher education may bring quick rejoinder from some quarters, the author presents ideas well worth ponder ing. Mr. Spalding, former Superintendent of the Portland, Oregon, Public Schools, is Dean of the School of Education, Uni versity of Illinois.
The Use of a Student-Activity Program in the Preparation of Secondary-School Teachers
Authors: Butterweck Joseph S.
Published: March 2008

The faculty responsible for secondary- school teacher preparation in Teachers College, Temple University, has been ex perimenting for several years with an ap proach to teacher education which em phasizes the enrichment of the personality and cultural life of the student. Mr. But terweck, Director of the Division of Sec ondary Education, presents in this article a review and evaluation of the student- activities program which has been devel oped during the past few years.
Mechanical Controls of Quality in Teacher Education
Authors: Haskew Laurence D.
Published: March 2008

Can the quality of a teacher's prepara tion be influenced constructively by such devices as certification and accreditation? Mr. Haskew, Dean of the College of Edu cation, University of Texas, focuses upon this question an unusually rich personal experience in teacher education. Former ly the Executive Secretary of the Commit tee on Teacher Education of the American Council on Education, he has directed or served as consultant for numerous teacher- education studies. This article illuminates the many weaknesses of mechanical-type quality controls, but ways are suggested for achieving much greater value from such controls.
The Good Teacher: Establishing Criteria for Identification
Authors: Scates Douglas E.
Published: March 2008

This section is the first presentation of current research developments in teacher education, which is to be a regular feature of THE JOURNAL. Mr. Scates, former President of the American Educational Research Association and former editor or member of the editorial board of every major journal in the field of educational research, is now Professor of Education devoting full time to research in teacher education, Queens College, New York City. A rich personal experience in research, a comprehensive grasp of the wide range of research problems in teacher education, a sense of integration, and a skill in scholarly writing combine to make him a valuable guide in this field for JOURNAL readers. Mr. Scates will welcome communications, particularly those con taining suggestions for making this section of practical interest and value to the users of THE JOURNAL.
Cultural Lag, the Status Quo, and Teacher Education
Authors: Lenn Theodore I.
Published: March 2008

In this article a sociologist looks at the responsibility of teacher education in re lation to the imbalance between social and technological advance. He sees the preparation of the teacher as the key to progress both in the material and in the nonmaterial essentials of Western civili zation. Mr. Lenn is Assistant Professor of Sociology, Teachers College of Connecti cut. He was visiting Assistant Professor of Educational Sociology, New York Univer sity, Summer of 1950.
Educational Organization in Germany
Authors: Roth Heinrich
Published: March 2008

This article was developed from an address presented by Mr. Roth at the National Workshop on the Improvement of Professional Laboratory Experiences in the Education of Teachers, University of Wyoming, Laramie, Wyoming, August 14, 1950. The address was interpreted and the article written by Thomas D. Horn, Iowa State Teachers College, Cedar Falls, Iowa, Workshop Consultant. The manuscript was carefully rechecked by Mr. Roth, who is Professor of Psychology, Padagogisches Institut, Kuenzelsau, Wuert temberg, Germany.
Counseling in Teacher Education
Authors: McGrath G.D.
Published: March 2008

Counseling in teacher education is so thin and insignificant as to be practically nonexistent in most institutions that pre pare teachers. The author of this article attacks the problem with candor. Mr. McGrath is Head of the Education De partment, Arizona State College at Tempe. His analysis of principles and problems in counseling is applicable to any teacher-education institution.
Student Participation in Determining College Policy
Authors: Henderson Kenneth B. , Brown Edward
Published: March 2008

An interesting experiment in student- faculty cooperation in policy-making is being carried on in the College of Edu cation, University of Illinois. The origin and development of the experiment are reported in this article. Both dividends and problems are being realized. Mr. Henderson, Professor of Education, is faculty sponsor of the Student Forum, and Mr. Brown has just completed a year as student chairman of the Forum.
A Materials Laboratory in Teacher Education
Authors: Grambs Jean D.
Published: March 2008

Can a materials workshop be used to strengthen college instruction in profes sional courses and improve student teach ing at the same time? The experience here reported seems to support such a possibility. Beginning with the hypothesis that a materials laboratory can help meet the problem of individual differences, Mrs. Grambs recounts in this article the development of the project at Stanford University. She is Assistant Professor of Education in the Stanford School of Edu cation.
The Employment Interview of the Inexperienced Teacher
Authors: Bryant Roye R.
Published: March 2008

Here is an article that will be helpful reading for the senior or graduate seek ing his first teaching position. A place ment counselor of long experience, the author presents down-to-earth suggestions. Although directed specifically to the in experienced teacher, the analysis of the employment interview has equal appli cability to the efforts of the experienced teacher to secure a position. Mr. Bryant is Director of the Placement Service, Southern Illinois University.
Dynamic Adjustment to Teaching: A Focal Point for Research
Authors: Scates Douglas E.
Published: March 2008

Mr. Scates will welcome suggestions for this section, and all communications may be directed to him at Queens College of the City of New York, Flushing, Long Island.