bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synoptic Environments Associated with the Training of Convective Cells
Authors: Aylward Ryan P. , Dyer Jamie L.
Published: November 2009

Many studies have been done on synoptically forced systems and heavy rainfall, but little research has gone into the forecasting of training convective storms specifically in a synoptically forced environment. Training convective storms are recognized as the propagation of convective cells repeatedly over the same location. The research in this paper examines 38 separate synoptically forced convective extreme precipitation training (SCEPT) events to find trends and consistencies in their synoptic environments. Three separate cases were found in which a SCEPT event occurred: closed upper-level trough (CULL), upper-level trough (ULT), and 850-hPa trough–low (850TL). Each event occurred in areas of precipitable water greater than 36.42 mm (1.43 in.), near maximums of 850-hPa moisture convergence and 700-hPa upward vertical velocities, under the 850-hPa jet, and in the warm sector of a midlatitude cyclone. CULL and ULT events occurred in strongly forced synoptic environments where 500- and 300-hPa troughs were evident and generally positively tilted. Little upper-level forcing, above 700 hPa, was found in 850TL events.
A Study of the Social Characteristics of Artists
Authors: Ravadrad Azam
Published: November 2009

This article examines the social characteristics of artists. The idea is that artists share some common characteristics that may have an effect on their becoming an artist. The process of acquiring the identification of artist is a multidimensional one, which is related to creativity, alongside many other factors that are inherently social. Here, emphasis is on the second kind of factors, the social ones. In order to show the importance of such factors, data from the author’s previous research are presented. The theoretical field of study is sociology of art with an emphasis on Janet Wolff’s ideas. The main hypothesis is that creativity and genius are preconditions for a person to become an artist, but are not sufficient in themselves. The individual’s emergence as artist also relies on their social conditions. If certain social conditions are right, then an individual may be able to pursue artistic activities and become known as an artist.
Job Satisfaction and/or Job Stress
Authors: Kashefi Max
Published: November 2009

The rapid diffusion of high performance work organizations (HPWO) has attracted the attention of many scholars in sociology and psychology over the last three decades. One area in which ongoing debates and evidence are inconclusive is the linkage between HPWO and the ‘psychological functioning’ of employees, specifically the issues of job satisfaction and job stress. This study examines, and thereby extends our understanding of, associations between workplace restructuring — adopting an ‘internalization strategy’ within HPWO — with job satisfaction and job stress. The findings reveal that the implementation of an internalization strategy has raised job satisfaction both directly and indirectly, through affecting job characteristics — while indirectly increasing job stress as well. The latter occurred because an internalization strategy speeds up work pace, develops conflicting demands and intensifies conflicts between work and family. The article concludes with a short discussion on the theoretical significance of the findings and their policy implications for human resource management.
Language Style Matching as a Predictor of Social Dynamics in Small Groups
Authors: Gonzales Amy L. , Hancock Jeffrey T. , Pennebaker James W.
Published: November 2009

Synchronized verbal behavior can reveal important information about social dynamics. This study introduces the linguistic style matching (LSM) algorithm for calculating verbal mimicry based on an automated textual analysis of function words. The LSM algorithm was applied to language generated during a small group discussion in which 70 groups comprised of 324 individuals engaged in an information search task either face-to-face or via text-based computer-mediated communication. As a metric, LSM predicted the cohesiveness of groups in both communication environments, and it predicted task performance in face-to-face groups. Other language features were also related to the groups’ cohesiveness and performance, including word count, pronoun patterns, and verb tense. The results reveal that this type of automated measure of verbal mimicry can be an objective, efficient, and unobtrusive tool for predicting underlying social dynamics. In total, the study demonstrates the effectiveness of using language to predict change in social psychological factors of interest.
Family History of Diabetes, Parental Body Mass Index Predict Obesity in Latino Children
Authors: Villa-Caballero Leonel , Arredondo Elva Maria , Campbell Nadia , Elder John P.
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the association between family history of diabetes (FHD), body mass index (BMI), and acculturation with children’s BMI status.

Methods

Baseline data from a randomized community intervention trial promoting healthy eating and physical activity were collected in children living in San Diego, California. A self-administered survey was completed by primary caregivers at each school assessing maternal diabetes, BMI, acculturation, and socioeconomic status (SES). Anthropometric data (height, weight, and BMI) from mothers and children were also collected.

Results

A total of 812 caregivers completed the baseline survey. Adjusting for maternal age, marital status, and socioeconomic level, women who had been diagnosed with diabetes or gestational diabetes or who received diabetes treatment were significantly more likely to have overweight children. Maternal BMI was also associated with children’s weight. Maternal acculturation level was marginally associated with children’s BMI.

Conclusions

FHD, gestational diabetes, and BMI were associated with children’s overweight status. More comprehensive interventions are needed to prevent obesity in Latino children and adults.
Structuring governance: A case study of the new organizational provision of public service delivery
Authors: McDermont Morag , Cowan Dave , Prendergrast Jessica
Published: November 2009

Drawing on research findings concerning the new management structures and paradigms in the range of services formerly provided within the public sector, this paper reports on research conducted into the governing structures of a newly registered social landlord, formed to take over a local authority’s housing stock. Using a variety of ethnographic methods, the research looked at the ways in which the members of the governing body translated understandings of neutrality into their everyday practices and how expertise was constructed by the members themselves as well as their perceptions of each other’s expertise. We conclude by relating the findings of our research to other literature on citizen participation and argue that these elements of neutrality and expertise lie in tension with, and constrain, effective participation.
Clinical evaluation of the new BMU 40 in-line blood analysis monitor
Authors: Schaarschmidt Jan , Seeburger Joerg , Borger Michael A. , Grosse F. Oliver , Kraemer Klaus , Mohr Friedrich W.
Published: October 2009

Background: Accurate information about different blood parameters is essential in maintaining haemodynamics, perfusion and gas exchange during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). For this purpose, precise, accurate and continuous measurement and monitoring, preferably visually available, is needed.The objective of this clinical study was to compare the newly developed continuous in-line blood parameter monitoring system (CIBPMS) BMU 40 with a reference laboratory analyser with regards to the precision and accuracy of blood parameter measurement.

Methods: Thirty adult patients underwent elective cardiac surgery, CPB and mild hypothermia (32°C). At five predetermined time points (S1 — S5) arterial and venous blood samples were analysed using the BMU 40 for five different parameters (PaO2(37°C), PaO2(act), SvO2, Hb(ven) and Hct(ven)) and these results were compared to the gold standard laboratory analyser, the ABL 700.

Results: A total of 150 paired blood samples were included to compare means, to analyse correlation, and to calculate measures of bias, precision, limits of agreement and 95% confidence intervals. Results revealed good agreement between the two devices for all parameters. Bias ± precision of S2 — S5 PaO 2(37°C) were: 2.17 ± 9.61; PaO2(act) 2.58 ± 9.54; SvO2 -1.44 ± 2.35; Hb(ven) 0.01 ± 0.42; Hct(ven) 0.04 ± 1.29. Statistically significant differences were detected for SvO2 (p<0.00001) at S1. Correlations after this first time point (S1) improved following an in vivo calibration.

Conclusion: The BMU 40 is a precise, accurate and reliable continuous in-line blood parameter measuring system that can easily be used within a standard CPB setup. However, present data suggest an in vivo calibration of the BMU 40 should be performed.
5-HT2Areceptor antagonism by MDL 11,939 during inescapable stress prevents subsequent exaggeration of acoustic startle response and reduced body weight in rats
Authors: Jiang Xiaolong , Zhang Zhang-jin , Zhang Steven , Gamble Eleanore H , Jia Min , Ursano Robert J , Li He
Published: November 2009

Activation of central 5-HT2Areceptor signaling and its subsequent alterations have been implicated in the pathophysiological response to stress and the pathogenesis of stress-associated psychiatric disorders. To further examine the association between alterations in central 5-HT2Areceptor signaling and the occurrence of stress-induced psychiatric symptoms, the present study, utilizing a learned helplessness stress model in rats, determined whether 5-HT2Areceptor signaling blockade during stress could prevent the occurrence of stress-induced physical and behavioral abnormalities. Rats subjected to restraint/tail shock for three days developed long-lasting elevated acoustic startle response (ASR) and reduced body weight, compared to non-stressed control animals. However, administration of the selective 5-HT2Areceptor antagonist, MDL 11,939 (α-phenyl-1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-piperidinemethanol), 30 min prior to exposure of the animals to the stress protocol prevented the subsequent occurrence of elevated ASR and reduced body weight in a dose-dependent manner in stressed subjects. Administration of MDL 11,939 to the animals immediately after exposure to the stress protocol also prevented the occurrence of exaggerated ASR, but was not able to normalize body weight. These findings suggest a critical role of the central 5-HT2Areceptor activation in developing the pathophysiology associated with elevated ASR and reduced body weight during stress. The differential effects of MDL 11,939 on startle response and body weight and its potential clinical significance are discussed.
Pectoralis Major Muscle Rupture in Athletes
Authors: de Castro Pochini Alberto , Ejnisman Benno , Andreoli Carlos Vicente , Monteiro Gustavo Cara , Silva Antonio Carlos , Cohen Moises , Albertoni Walter Manna
Published: October 2009

Background

In the past 20 years, there has been an increase in the incidence of upper extremity tendinous injuries, especially in sports including strong physical activity, such as in weight lifting, as well as with the concurrent use of anabolic steroids. Today, there are more than 200 cases describing rupture of the pectoralis major muscle in athletes.

Hypothesis

Surgical treatment will have a better outcome than nonsurgical treatment in total rupture of the pectoralis major muscle in athletes.

Study Design

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.

Methods

Twenty athletes with pectoralis major muscle (PMM) rupture were studied; 10 had surgical treatment, and the other 10 were treated nonoperatively. The mean age was 32.27 years (range, 27-47 years); all of them were men. The average follow-up was 36 months (range, 48-72 months). Injuries were diagnosed by history, physical examination, and subsidiary tests. Functional evaluation and isokinetic evaluation were performed on all 20 patients.

Results

The clinical evaluation revealed 70% (n = 7) excellent, 20% good (n = 2), and 10% poor (n = 1) outcomes for the cases treated with surgery and 20% good (n = 2), 50% fair (n = 5), and 40% poor (n = 4) outcomes for the cases treated nonsurgically. The isokinetic evaluation at 60-deg/s speed showed a decrease in strength of 53.8% in the nonsurgical group and 13.7% for the surgical group.

Conclusion

Total PMM rupture in athletes showed a better functional result after surgical treatment than after nonsurgical treatment.
Renewal and Risk: The Dual Experience of Young Motherhood and Aging Out of the Child Welfare System
Authors: Pryce Julia M. , Samuels Gina Miranda
Published: October 2009

This interpretive study examines how childhood history and the personal experience of being mothered impact the meaning attributed to motherhood among young mothers aging out of the child welfare system. Through the use of an interpretive approach, findings are derived from interviews with 15 females who reported an experience of pregnancy or parenting at the time of the interview. In the midst of the strain and challenge of motherhood, these young women report that motherhood has the potential to provide opportunities relevant to their own identity as well as to healing from their pasts. Findings aim to inform ways of understanding and responding to the unique and dual experience of mothering and aging out of the child welfare system.
Cranial nerve VI palsy as a rare initial presentation of systemic lupus erythematosus: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Saleh Z. , Menassa J. , Abbas O. , Atweh S. , Arayssi T.
Published: October 2009

A 48-year-old woman presented with isolated sixth cranial nerve palsy. She subsequently developed systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) based on clinical and laboratory parameters. Three years later, she presented again with sixth cranial nerve palsy affecting the contralateral eye. Within 2 weeks of steroid initiation, complete recovery occurred. The unusual rare presentation of SLE in the current patient, as well as the pathogenesis and treatment of cranial neuropathy in SLE are discussed. Lupus (2010) 19, 201—205.
Aging Families and the Demographics of Family Financial Support of Adults With Disabilities
Authors: Fujiura Glenn T.
Published: October 2009

Using data from the 2007 American Community Survey (ACS), the study estimated the degree of family financial support for adult members with disabilities living at home. Using the Internal Revenue Service definition of a “qualifying dependent,” need for financial support was defined in terms ability to financially contribute to one’s own support. Estimates indicated that 32.3% of the family-based population of adults with disabilities needed financial support. Among those meeting the support test, approximately 4 in 10 lived in households where the primary income earner was 60 years or older. Results are discussed in terms of greater attention to the impact of emerging family demographics for policy and assumption of a family perspective in policy making.
Advances in Games Technology: Software, Models, and Intelligence
Authors: Prakash Edmond , Brindle Geoff , Jones Kevin , Zhou Suiping , Chaudhari Narendra S. , Wong Kok-Wai
Published: October 2009

Games technology has undergone tremendous development. In this article, the authors report the rapid advancement that has been observed in the way games software is being developed, as well as in the development of games content using game engines. One area that has gained special attention is modeling the game environment such as terrain and buildings. This article presents the continuous level of detail terrain modeling techniques that can help generate and render realistic terrain in real time. Deployment of characters in the environment is increasingly common. This requires strategies to map scalable behavior characteristics for characters as well. The authors present two important aspects of crowd simulation: the realism of the crowd behavior and the computational overhead involved. A good simulation of crowd behavior requires delicate balance between these aspects. The focus in this article is on human behavior representation for crowd simulation. To enhance the player experience, the authors present the concept of player adaptive entertainment computing, which provides a personalized experience for each individual when interacting with the game. The current state of game development involves using very small percentage (typically 4% to 12%) of CPU time for game artificial intelligence (AI). Future game AI requires developing computational strategies that have little involvement of CPU for online play, while using CPU’s idle capacity when the game is not being played, thereby emphasizing the construction of complex game AI models offline. A framework of such nonconventional game AI models is introduced.
Cleaning Up My (Father’s) Mess: Narrative Containments of “Leaky” Masculinities
Authors: Lindemann Kurt
Published: October 2009

In the photograph, my father holds my tiny elbow in my large hands, teaching me to punch and training me in “manly” poses.We are years away from my father’s motorcycle accident. While the disabled body has been displayed in many recent films and television shows, the ways it is discursively constructed remain relatively unarticulated. It is a task is even more complex given the ways the disabled body is gendered, particularly with regard to its literal and figurative “leaks” resulting from the loss of bodily function. In this “messy” narrative, I draw on three years of fieldwork with male wheelchair rugby athletes and personal experience with disability in exploring the ways disabled persons narrate control of their bodies and, in essence, narrate a preferred masculinity. I also employ performative writing in interrogating my own “leaky” masculinity, reflexively examining the control I attempt to enact over both my relationships and my body.
Why do ‘we’ perform surgery on newborn intersexed children?
Authors: Zeiler Kristin , Wickström Anette
Published: November 2009

Few parents-to-be consider that their child may be born with ambiguous sex. Still, parents of a newborn child with ambiguous sex are expected to make a far-reaching decision for the child: should the child be operated upon so that it has either female or male genitals? The aim of this article is to examine, phenomenologically, why parents decide to have their children undergo genital surgery when it is not necessary for the child’s physiological functions. Drawing on phenomenological work by Maurice Merleau-Ponty, Simone de Beauvoir and Sara Ahmed, we examine parents’ frustration when their child’s sex is ambiguous and their experiences of the practice of medical sex assignment. We also examine parental identity work when the child has been assigned a sex and the interaction between parents and medical professionals when parents make decisions regarding surgery on their child. Furthermore, we provide a critical perspective on the surgical practice.
Review series: Rehabilitation in non COPD: Mechanisms of exercise limitation and pulmonary rehabilitation for patients with pulmonary fibrosis/restrictive lung disease
Authors: Markovitz Gerald H , Cooper Christopher B
Published: October 2009

The standard of care in the treatment of chronic lung disease includes pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). While evidence of the effectiveness of PR in chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) is robust, that for pulmonary fibrosis and other non-fibrotic restrictive lung diseases is less extensive. However, PR has been shown to improve functional exercise capacity and health-related quality of life in non-COPD patients, primarily those with interstitial lung diseases. This review examines mechanisms of exercise limitation in non-COPD patients and discusses how they might affect both the application of and outcome measures of PR. We also review the assessment of exercise performance, dyspnea, and quality of life as well as special protocols, safety considerations, and special techniques in PR as applied to patients with pulmonary fibrosis or restrictive lung disease. At present, there are no evidence-based guidelines for PR in non-COPD patients whereas PR is firmly recommended in COPD management. More research is needed to strengthen the evidence for the use of PR in non-COPD patients. Meanwhile, the available data, summarized in this review, support the inclusion of PR in the management of all patients with chronic lung disease including pulmonary fibrosis and restrictive lung disease.
Selecting optimal second-line tyrosine kinase inhibitor therapy for chronic myeloid leukemia patients after imatinib failure: does the BCR-ABL mutation status really matter?
Authors: Branford Susan , Melo Junia V. , Hughes Timothy P.
Published: October 2009

Preclinical studies of BCR-ABL mutation sensitivity to nilotinib or dasatinib suggested that the majority would be sensitive. Correspondingly, the initial clinical trials demonstrated similar response rates for CML patients after imatinib failure, irrespective of the mutation status. However, on closer examination, clinical evidence now indicates that some mutations are less sensitive to nilotinib (Y253H, E255K/V, and F359V/C) or dasatinib (F317L and V299L). T315I is insensitive to both. Novel mutations (F317I/V/C and T315A) are less sensitive/insensitive to dasatinib. We refer to these collectively as second-generation inhibitor (SGI) clinically relevant mutations. By in vitro analysis, other mutations confer a degree of insensitivity; however, clinical evidence is currently insufficient to define them as SGI clinically relevant. Here we examine the mutations that are clearly SGI clinically relevant, those with minimal impact on response, and those for which more data are needed. In our series of patients with mutations at imatinib cessation and/or at nilotinib or dasatinib commencement, 43% had SGI clinically relevant mutations, including 14% with T315I. The frequency of SGI clinically relevant mutations was dependent on the disease phase at imatinib failure. The clinical data suggest that a mutation will often be detectable after imatinib failure for which there is compelling clinical evidence that one SGI should be preferred.
Estrogen receptor signaling promotes dendritic cell differentiation by increasing expression of the transcription factor IRF4
Authors: Carreras Esther , Turner Sean , Frank Mark Barton , Knowlton Nicholas , Osban Jeanette , Centola Michael , Park Chae Gyu , Simmons Amie , Alberola-Ila José , Kovats Susan
Published: October 2009

During inflammation, elevated granulocyte macrophage–colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) directs the development of new dendritic cells (DCs). This pathway is influenced by environmental factors, and we previously showed that physiologic levels of estradiol, acting through estrogen receptor alpha (ERα), promote the GM-CSF–mediated differentiation of a CD11b+ DC subset from myeloid progenitors (MPs). We now have identified interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4), a transcription factor induced by GM-CSF and critical for CD11b+ DC development in vivo, as a target of ERα signaling during this process. In MPs, ERα potentiates and sustains GM-CSF induction of IRF4. Furthermore, retroviral delivery of the Irf4 cDNA to undifferentiated ERα−/− bone marrow cells restored the development of the estradiol/ERα-dependent DC population, indicating that an elevated amount of IRF4 protein substitutes for ERα signaling. Thus at an early stage in the MP response to GM-CSF, ERα signaling induces an elevated amount of IRF4, which leads to a developmental program underlying CD11b+ DC differentiation.
GLIDERS - A web-based search engine for genome-wide linkage disequilibrium between HapMap SNPs
Authors: Lawrence Robert , Day-Williams Aaron G , Mott Richard , Broxholme John , Cardon Lon R , Zeggini Eleftheria
Published: October 2009

Background

A number of tools for the examination of linkage disequilibrium (LD) patterns between nearby alleles exist, but none are available for quickly and easily investigating LD at longer ranges (>500 kb). We have developed a web-based query tool (GLIDERS: Genome-wide LInkage DisEquilibrium Repository and Search engine) that enables the retrieval of pairwise associations with r2 ≥ 0.3 across the human genome for any SNP genotyped within HapMap phase 2 and 3, regardless of distance between the markers.

Description

GLIDERS is an easy to use web tool that only requires the user to enter rs numbers of SNPs they want to retrieve genome-wide LD for (both nearby and long-range). The intuitive web interface handles both manual entry of SNP IDs as well as allowing users to upload files of SNP IDs. The user can limit the resulting inter SNP associations with easy to use menu options. These include MAF limit (5-45%), distance limits between SNPs (minimum and maximum), r2 (0.3 to 1), HapMap population sample (CEU, YRI and JPT+CHB combined) and HapMap build/release. All resulting genome-wide inter-SNP associations are displayed on a single output page, which has a link to a downloadable tab delimited text file.

Conclusion

GLIDERS is a quick and easy way to retrieve genome-wide inter-SNP associations and to explore LD patterns for any number of SNPs of interest. GLIDERS can be useful in identifying SNPs with long-range LD. This can highlight mis-mapping or other potential association signal localisation problems.
PLAURpolymorphisms and lung function in UK smokers
Authors: Stewart Ceri E , Hall Ian P , Parker Stuart G , Moffat Miriam F , Wardlaw Andrew J , Connolly Martin J , Ruse Charlotte , Sayers Ian
Published: October 2009

Background

We have previously identified Urokinase Plasminogen Activator Receptor (PLAUR) as an asthma susceptibility gene. In the current study we tested the hypothesis that PLAUR single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) determine baseline lung function and contribute to the development of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in smokers.

Methods

25 PLAUR SNPs were genotyped in COPD subjects and individuals with smoking history (n = 992). Linear regression was used to determine the effects of polymorphism on baseline lung function (FEV1, FEV1/FVC) in all smokers. Genotype frequencies were compared in spirometry defined smoking controls (n = 176) versus COPD cases (n = 599) and COPD severity (GOLD stratification) using logistic regression.

Results

Five SNPs showed a significant association (p < 0.01) with baseline lung function; rs2302524(Lys220Arg) and rs2283628(intron 3) were associated with lower and higher FEV1 respectively. rs740587(-22346), rs11668247(-20040) and rs344779(-3666) in the 5'region were associated with increased FEV1/FVC ratio. rs740587 was also protective for COPD susceptibility and rs11668247 was protective for COPD severity although no allele dose relationship was apparent. Interestingly, several of these associations were driven by male smokers not females.

Conclusion

This study provides tentative evidence that the asthma associated gene PLAUR also influences baseline lung function in smokers. However the case-control analyses do not support the conclusion that PLAUR is a major COPD susceptibility gene in smokers. PLAUR is a key serine protease receptor involved in the generation of plasmin and has been implicated in airway remodelling.
Genetic load and transgenic mitigating genes in transgenic Brassica rapa (field mustard) × Brassica napus (oilseed rape) hybrid populations
Authors: Rose Christy W , Millwood Reginald J , Moon Hong S , Rao Murali R , Halfhill Matthew D , Raymer Paul L , Warwick Suzanne I , Al-Ahmad Hani , Gressel Jonathan , Stewart C Neal
Published: October 2009

Background

One theoretical explanation for the relatively poor performance ofBrassica rapa(weed) ×Brassica napus(crop) transgenic hybrids suggests that hybridization imparts a negative genetic load. Consequently, in hybrids genetic load could overshadow any benefits of fitness enhancing transgenes and become the limiting factor in transgenic hybrid persistence. Two types of genetic load were analyzed in this study: random/linkage-derived genetic load, and directly incorporated genetic load using a transgenic mitigation (TM) strategy. In order to measure the effects of random genetic load, hybrid productivity (seed yield and biomass) was correlated with crop- and weed-specific AFLP genomic markers. This portion of the study was designed to answer whether or not weed × transgenic crop hybrids possessing more crop genes were less competitive than hybrids containing fewer crop genes. The effects of directly incorporated genetic load (TM) were analyzed through transgene persistence data. TM strategies are proposed to decrease transgene persistence if gene flow and subsequent transgene introgression to a wild host were to occur.

Results

In the absence of interspecific competition, transgenic weed × crop hybrids benefited from having more crop-specific alleles. There was a positive correlation between performance and number ofB. napuscrop-specific AFLP markers [seed yield vs. marker number (r = 0.54, P = 0.0003) and vegetative dry biomass vs. marker number (r = 0.44, P = 0.005)]. However under interspecific competition with wheat or more weed-like conditions (i.e. representing a situation where hybrid plants emerge as volunteer weeds in subsequent cropping systems), there was a positive correlation between the number ofB. rapaweed-specific AFLP markers and seed yield (r = 0.70, P = 0.0001), although no such correlation was detected for vegetative biomass. When genetic load was directly incorporated into the hybrid genome, by inserting a fitness-mitigating dwarfing gene that that is beneficial for crops but deleterious for weeds (a transgene mitigation measure), there was a dramatic decrease in the number of transgenic hybrid progeny persisting in the population.

Conclusion

The effects of genetic load of crop and in some situations, weed alleles might be beneficial under certain environmental conditions. However, when genetic load was directly incorporated into transgenic events, e.g., using a TM construct, the number of transgenic hybrids and persistence in weedy genomic backgrounds was significantly decreased.
High yield recombinant thermostable α-amylase production using an improved Bacillus licheniformis system
Authors: Niu Dandan , Zuo Zhirui , Shi Gui-Yang , Wang Zheng-Xiang
Published: October 2009

Background

Some strains of Bacillus licheniformis have been improved by target-directed screening as well as by classical genetic manipulation and used in commercial thermostable α-amylase and alkaline protease production for over 40 years. Further improvements in production of these enzymes are desirable.

Results

A new strain of B. licheniformis CBBD302 carrying a recombinant plasmid pHY-amyL for Bacillus licheniformis α-amylase (BLA) production was constructed. The combination of target-directed screening and genetic recombination led to an approximately 26-fold improvement of BLA production and export in B. licheniformis. Furthermore, a low-cost fermentation medium containing soybean meal and cottonseed meal for BLA production in shake-flasks and in a 15 liter bioreactor was developed and a BLA concentration of up to 17.6 mg per ml growth medium was attained.

Conclusion

This production level of BLA by B. licheniformis CBBD302(pHY-amyL) is amongst the highest levels in Gram-positive bacteria reported so far.
EM011 activates a survivin-dependent apoptotic program in human non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Karna Prasanthi , Sharp Starlette M , Yates Clayton , Prakash Satya , Aneja Ritu
Published: October 2009

Background

Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer death among both men and women in the United States. Treatment modalities available for this malignancy are inadequate and thus new drugs with improved pharmacological profiles and superior therapeutic indices are being continually explored. Noscapinoids constitute an emerging class of anticancer agents that bind tubulin but do not significantly alter the monomer/polymer ratio of tubulin. EM011, a rationally-designed member of this class of non-toxic agents, is more potent than the lead molecule, noscapine.

Results

Here we report that EM011 inhibited proliferation of a comprehensive panel of lung cancer cells with IC50's ranging from 4-50 μM. In A549 human non-small cell lung cancer cells, the antiproliferative activity was mediated through blockage of cell-cycle progression by induction of a transient but robust mitotic arrest accompanied by activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint. The mitotically-arrested A549 cells then override the activated mitotic checkpoint and aberrantly exit mitosis without cytokinesis resulting in pseudo G1-like multinucleated cells that either succumb directly to apoptosis or continue another round of the cell-cycle. The accumulated enormous DNA perhaps acts as genotoxic stress to trigger cell death. EM011-induced apoptotic cell death in A549 cells was associated with a decrease of the Bcl2/BAX ratio, activation of caspase-3 and cleavage of PARP. Furthermore, EM011 induced downregulation of survivin expression over time of treatment. Abrogation of survivin led to an increase of cell death whereas, overexpression caused decreased apoptosis.

Conclusion

These in vitro data suggest that EM011 mediates antiproliferative and proapoptotic activity in non-small cell A549 lung cancer cells by impeding cell-cycle progression and attenuating antiapoptotic signaling circuitries (viz. Bcl2, survivin). The study provides evidence for the potential usefulness of EM011 in chemotherapy of lung cancer.
Cleavage of functional IL-2 receptor alpha chain (CD25) from murine corneal and conjunctival epithelia by MMP-9
Authors: De Paiva Cintia S , Yoon Kyung-Chul , Pangelinan Solherny B , Pham Sapa , Puthenparambil Larry M , Chuang Eliseu Y , Farley William J , Stern Michael E , Li De-Quan , Pflugfelder Stephen C
Published: October 2009

Background

IL-2 has classically been considered a cytokine that regulates T cell proliferation and differentiation, signaling through its heterotrimeric receptor (IL-2R) consisting of α (CD25), β (CD122), γ chains (CD132). Expression of IL-2R has also been detected in mucosal epithelial cells. Soluble IL-2Rα (CD25) has been reported as an inflammatory marker. We evaluated the expression of CD25 and CD122 in the ocular surface epithelium and investigated the mechanism of proteolytic cleavage of CD25 from these cells.

Methods

Desiccating stress (DS) was used as an inducer of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9). DS was created by subjecting C57BL/6 and MMP-9 knockout (BKO) mice and their wild-type littermates (WT) mice to a low humidity and drafty environment for 5 days (DS5). A separate group of C57BL/6 mice was subjected to DS5 and treatment with topical 0.025% doxycycline, a MMP inhibitor, administered QID. The expression of CD25 and CD122 was evaluated in cryosections by dual-label laser scanning confocal microscopy. Western blot was used to measure relative levels of CD25 in epithelial lysates. Gelatinase activity was evaluated by in situ zymography. Soluble CD25 in tear fluid was measured by an immunobead assay.

Results

CD25 and CD122 were abundantly expressed in cornea (all layers) and conjunctiva epithelia (apical and subapical layers) in nonstressed control mice. After desiccating stress, we found that immunoreactivity to CD25, but not CD122, decreased by the ocular surface epithelia and concentration of soluble CD25 in tears increased as MMP-9 staining increased. CD25 was preserved in C57BL/6 mice topically treated with an MMP-9 inhibitor and in MMP-9 knock-out mice. MMP-9 treatment of human cultured corneal epithelial cells decreased levels of CD25 protein in a concentration dependent fashion.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that functional IL-2R is produced by the ocular surface epithelia and that CD25 is proteolytic cleaved to its soluble form by MMP-9, which increases in desiccating stress. These findings provide new insight into IL-2 signaling in mucosal epithelia.
Using the ratio of means as the effect size measure in combining results of microarray experiments
Authors: Hu Pingzhao , Greenwood Celia MT , Beyene Joseph
Published: November 2009

Background

Development of efficient analytic methodologies for combining microarray results is a major challenge in gene expression analysis. The widely used effect size models are thought to provide an efficient modeling framework for this purpose, where the measures of association for each study and each gene are combined, weighted by the standard errors. A significant disadvantage of this strategy is that the quality of different data sets may be highly variable, but this information is usually neglected during the integration. Moreover, it is widely known that the estimated standard deviations are probably unstable in the commonly used effect size measures (such as standardized mean difference) when sample sizes in each group are small.

Results

We propose a re-parameterization of the traditional mean difference based effect measure by using the log ratio of means as an effect size measure for each gene in each study. The estimated effect sizes for all studies were then combined under two modeling frameworks: the quality-unweighted random effects models and the quality-weighted random effects models. We defined the quality measure as a function of the detection p-value, which indicates whether a transcript is reliably detected or not on the Affymetrix gene chip. The new effect size measure is evaluated and compared under the quality-weighted and quality-unweighted data integration frameworks using simulated data sets, and also in several data sets of prostate cancer patients and controls. We focus on identifying differentially expressed biomarkers for prediction of cancer outcomes.

Conclusion

Our results show that the proposed effect size measure (log ratio of means) has better power to identify differentially expressed genes, and that the detected genes have better performance in predicting cancer outcomes than the commonly used effect size measure, the standardized mean difference (SMD), under both quality-weighted and quality-unweighted data integration frameworks. The new effect size measure and the quality-weighted microarray data integration framework provide efficient ways to combine microarray results.
A selective eradication of human nonhereditary breast cancer cells by phenanthridine-derived polyADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors
Authors: Inbar-Rozensal Dana , Castiel Asher , Visochek Leonid , Castel David , Dantzer Françoise , Izraeli Shai , Cohen-Armon Malka
Published: November 2009

Introduction

PARP-1 (polyADP-ribose polymerase-1) is known to be activated in response to DNA damage, and activated PARP-1 promotes DNA repair. However, a recently disclosed alternative mechanism of PARP-1 activation by phosphorylated externally regulated kinase (ERK) implicates PARP-1 in a vast number of signal-transduction networks in the cell. Here, PARP-1 activation was examined for its possible effects on cell proliferation in both normal and malignant cells.

Methods

In vitro (cell cultures) and in vivo (xenotransplants) experiments were performed.

Results

Phenanthridine-derived PARP inhibitors interfered with cell proliferation by causing G2/M arrest in both normal (human epithelial cells MCF10A and mouse embryonic fibroblasts) and human breast cancer cells MCF-7 and MDA231. However, whereas the normal cells were only transiently arrested, G2/M arrest in the malignant breast cancer cells was permanent and was accompanied by a massive cell death. In accordance, treatment with a phenanthridine-derived PARP inhibitor prevented the development of MCF-7 and MDA231 xenotransplants in female nude mice. Quiescent cells (neurons and cardiomyocytes) are not impaired by these PARP inhibitors.

Conclusions

These results outline a new therapeutic approach for a selective eradication of abundant nonhereditary human breast cancers.
CD57+ T lymphocytes and functional immune deficiency
Authors: Focosi Daniele , Bestagno Marco , Burrone Oscar , Petrini Mario
Published: October 2009

CD57 marker on T lymphocytes is a promising marker of functional immune deficiency whose clinical value is under scrutiny.

CD57+ expression in T lymphocytes has been recognized for decades as a marker of in vitro replicative senescence. In recent years, accumulating evidences have pointed on the utility of this marker to measure functional immune deficiency in patients with autoimmune disease, infectious diseases, and cancers. We review here the relevant literature and implications in clinical settings.
Second-generation antipsychotic long-acting injections: Systematic review
Authors: Fleischhacker W. Wolfgang
Published: October 2009

Background

Second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) represent an advance in the long-term management of schizophrenia.

Aims

To review the available evidence concerning SGA long-acting injections (LAIs).

Method

A systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed.

Results

Risperidone long-acting injection was the first licensed SGA–LAI compound and is effective in the long-term management of schizophrenia, with a safety profile similar to that of oral risperidone. Olanzapine pamoate has recently been approved in Europe. In terms of efficacy, at injection intervals of up to 4 weeks it appears comparable to oral olanzapine, although the potential for ‘post-injection syndrome’ (delirium) calls for additional safety considerations. Paliperidone palmitate is currently under review with the licensing authorities. It also affords the potential advantage of monthly dosing.

Conclusions

More long-term comparisons of SGA–LAIs with oral SGAs as well as with first-generation antipsychotic LAIs are needed. These studies should include cost-effectiveness data.
Antipsychotic long-acting injections: Prescribing practice in the UK
Authors: Barnes Thomas R. E. , Shingleton-Smith Amber , Paton Carol
Published: October 2009

Background

Data from the USA, Australia and Europe suggest that the proportion of patients with schizophrenia prescribed an antipsychotic long-acting injection (LAI) varies from around a quarter to a third. Use of LAIs has been associated with male gender and younger age.

Aims

To characterise the use of LAIs in people with schizophrenia in three clinical settings in the UK.

Method

The study used audit data from quality improvement programmes conducted by the Prescribing Observatory for Mental Health.

Results

Long-acting injections were found to be prescribed for between a quarter and a third of patients, depending on the clinical setting. Flupentixol, risperidone and zuclopenthixol were most commonly prescribed and were combined with an oral antipsychotic in half of cases, frequently constituting high-dose prescribing. The use of LAIs was not consistently associated with age, gender or ethnicity.

Conclusions

Antipsychotic LAIs are commonly prescribed. We did not replicate previous findings with respect to demographic variables associated with their use.
Attitudes of patients and mental health staff to antipsychotic long-acting injections: Systematic review
Authors: Waddell Linda , Taylor Mark
Published: October 2009

Background

The attitudes of staff and patients have been demonstrated to influence the acceptance of long-acting injections (LAIs) or depot antipsychotics.

Aims

To examine the attitudes of patients and staff to LAIs.

Method

A systematic review was carried out. Studies included contained quantitative data for attitudes of patients or staff to LAIs.

Results

Twelve studies published subsequent to the systematic review reported in 2001 were identified. Five studies conveyed an overall positive attitude. The most positive attitudes among patients were seen in those already prescribed an LAI. Positive attitudes of staff correlated closely with the extent of their knowledge of LAIs.

Conclusions

Long-acting injections continue to have an image problem, arguably perpetuated by manufacturers of oral second-generation antipsychotic drugs, and exacerbated by the predominant use of these medications as a ‘last resort’ often for the most stigmatised individuals. The introduction of better-tolerated LAIs and better education of both staff and patients may encourage individuals to re-examine their attitudes.
Knowledge about antipsychotic long-acting injections: Bridging that gap
Authors: Burns Tom
Published: October 2009

Antipsychotics in depot (or ‘long-acting injection’, LAI) form are shown in this supplement to be a significant component of clinical practice. They are comparatively underresearched, which may reflect their frequent use witih poorly adherent patients. This supplement clearly demonstrates the need for that research, highlighting the variations in dosing and the absence of established, specific guidelines in their use. Traditional evidence-based approaches to systematic reviews are of limited utility in this area so this supplement's blending of experimental trials with observational research is particularly appropriate and effective. After a brief decline in their use with the introduction of oral atypical antipsychotics, LAIs are regaining a central position in the care of long-term psychosis. This comprehensive review of current knowledge makes a timely contribution.
Community treatment orders and antipsychotic long-acting injections
Authors: Lambert Tim J. , Singh Bruce S. , Patel Maxine X.
Published: October 2009

Background

The community treatment order (CTO) is the legal framework by which people in the community are compelled to accept treatment. Both antipsychotic long-acting injections (LAIs) and CTOs are used to address treatment non-adherence.

Aims

To investigate the relationship between CTOs and LAI use in patients with schizophrenia.

Method

Prescribing, demographic and CTO data were collected for patients from four community mental health clinics in Melbourne, Australia, in 1998 and 2002.

Results

Against a background of increasing use of oral second-generation antipsychotic (SGA) medication and decreasing use of LAIs, the rates of CTO implementation doubled from 13% to 26% of patients with schizophrenia between 1998 and 2002. Proportionally more patients with a CTO are prescribed LAIs rather than oral SGAs.

Conclusions

The relationship between receiving an LAI and being subject to a CTO is significant, and reflects the consideration given to enhancing adherence in a community mental health setting.
Nonlinear Seismic Torsional Pounding Between an Asymmetric Tower and a Barrier
Authors: Wei X. X. , Wang L. X. , Chau K. T.
Published: October 2009

Seismic torsional pounding between an asymmetric single-story tower and a neighboring barrier under harmonic ground excitation is modeled as the nonlinear Hertz contact in this paper. The governing equations of motion are numerically solved using the fourth-order Runge-Kutta method with an adaptive step size control. An analytical solution is obtained for the first time for a special case of periodic torsional pounding. Results of our numerical simulations reveal that torsional pounding tends to be much more complex and unpredictable than translational pounding, and most of them are either multiple or chaotic impacts. The maximum torsional impact velocity tends to be insensitive to the changes of separation distance and eccentricity as long as impact is developed. Although the analytical solution fails to predict the exact impact velocity of multiple torsional pounding, it does provide some useful insights into this complex phenomenon. The analytical solution succeeds in predicting the overall patterns as well as the abrupt jump of torsional impact velocity spectra.