bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Unaware Perception on Bodily Interaction in Virtual Reality Environments
Authors: Hilsenrat Marcos , Reiner Miriam
Published: February 2010

Unaware haptic perception is often inferred but rarely demonstrated empirically. In this paper we present evidence for the effects of unaware haptic stimuli on users' motor interaction with virtual objects. Using a 3D hapto-visual virtual reality, we ran a texture-difference recognition test in which subjects glided a pen-like stylus along a virtual surface with varying roughness. We found that subjects were not aware of changes in texture roughness below a threshold limit, yet the normal force they applied changed. Subjects did not recognize on a cognitive level changes in the sensory cues, but behaved as if they did. These results suggest that performance can be affected through subliminal cues. Based on results from visual perception studies, we also tested the impact of context background conditions on the perception of unaware cues. We measured the threshold of awareness to changes in texture for several reference stimuli. We found that indeed, as in visual perception, this threshold for discriminating between the roughness of surfaces increases when the texture gets smoother, that is, sensitivity changes as a function of the background context. The implications of this work are mainly in the design of VR, especially for the remote manipulation of objects.
The Evolution of Social Behavior over Time in Second Life
Authors: Harris Helen , Bailenson Jeremy N , Nielsen Alexia , Yee Nick
Published: February 2010

The current study tracked 80 participants who spent an average of six hours per week in Second Life over six consecutive weeks. Objective measures of movement and chat were automatically collected in real time when participants logged in to Second Life. Data regarding the number of groups and friends was self-reported through online questionnaires on a weekly basis. Results demonstrated that although the social networks of users continued to broaden over the course of the study, users became less inclined to explore regions, decreased their use of high-energy actions such as flying or running, and chatted less. We discuss implications for theories of virtual social interaction as well as the use of Second Life as a social science research platform.
Expertise-Based Performance Measures in a Virtual Training Environment
Authors: Huegel Joel C , Celik Ozkan , Israr Ali , O'Malley Marcia K
Published: February 2010

This paper introduces and validates quantitative performance measures for a rhythmic target-hitting task. These performance measures are derived from a detailed analysis of human performance during a month-long training experiment where participants learned to operate a 2-DOF haptic interface in a virtual environment to execute a manual control task. The motivation for the analysis presented in this paper is to determine measures of participant performance that capture the key skills of the task. This analysis of performance indicates that two quantitative measures—trajectory error and input frequency—capture the key skills of the target-hitting task, as the results show a strong correlation between the performance measures and the task objective of maximizing target hits. The performance trends were further explored by grouping the participants based on expertise and examining trends during training in terms of these measures. In future work, these measures will be used as inputs to a haptic guidance scheme that adjusts its control gains based on a real-time assessment of human performance of the task. Such guidance schemes will be incorporated into virtual training environments for humans to develop manual skills for domains such as surgery, physical therapy, and sports.
Human Factors in Haptic Contact of Pliable Surfaces
Authors: Vicentini Marco , Botturi Debora
Published: February 2010

This paper considers relevant human factors to interact with a pliable body in a teleoperation surgical environment. Our aim is to identify the human capabilities, in terms of penetration depth and responsiveness, in a task of pliable surface contact, where surgeons are required to adopt a specific behavior immediately after the contact. A psychophysical experiment is conducted using virtual surfaces rendered with two different force-feedback devices. The results show that impact velocity affects performance in surface contact perception. In a second experiment where different postures are used, we examine whether the previous results hold for the particular ergonomic configuration employed. The results show that posture affects performance especially in expert users. Our findings underscore the importance of understanding the interplay of human perceptual parameters in the surgical teleoperation framework.
Omnis Fibra Ex Fibra: Fibre OEconomies in Bonnet’s and Diderot’s Models of Organic Order
Authors: Cheung Tobias
Published: February 2010

In a long-term transformation, that begins in Antiquity but takes a crucial turn in the Renaissance anatomies, the “fibre” becomes from around 1750 the operative building block and at the same time the first unifying principle of function-structure-complexes of organic bodies. It occupies the role that the cell takes up in the cell œconomies of the second third of the nineteenth century. In this paper, I will first discuss some key notions, technical analogies, and images that are related to “fibre”-concepts from Andreas Vesalius to Albrecht von Haller and then focus on Charles Bonnet’s and Denis Diderot’s fibre oeconomies. In Bonnet’s and Diderot’s fibre oeconomies, the self-active, regulating properties of fibre-agents and their material structures, that reach from fibre bundles, tissues and membranes to apparati of organs, are united within the concrete whole of individual organized “systems” or “networks.”
Cinq nouveaux fragments nominaux du traité de Porphyre “Contre les chrétiens”
Authors: Goulet Richard
Published: February 2010

First publication of five fragments from Porphyry’s treatise Against the Christians discovered in Michael Psellus, Michael Glykas and Damascenus Studites. These objections are explicitly attributed to Porphyry and bear on biblical verses known to have been attacked by this opponent to christianity.
Structure Elucidation and Biological Activity of the Oversulfated Chondroitin Sulfate Contaminant in Baxter Heparin
Authors: McKee Jeff , Bairstow Shawn , Szabo Christina , Ray Joe , Wielgos Todd , Hu Peifeng , Chess Ed , Nordhaus Mark , Hai Ton , Campbell Jennifer , Donovan Shane , Viseux Nelly , Riedel Norbert , Cammack Jon , Johnson Richard
Published: February 2010

From late December 2007 to February 2008, the number of adverse responses to heparin infusions rose noticeably above baseline levels in North America, ultimately resulting in a widespread recall of all heparin vial products made by Baxter Healthcare. Using various analytical techniques and the de novo synthesis of a fully sulfated chondroitin sulfate (FSCS) derivative, the authors have confirmed the identity of the contaminant as an oversulfated chondroitin sulfate (OSCS) and have also defined the heterogeneity and concentration of this contaminant in various lots of heparin. Using both contaminated heparin products and the synthetically produced derivative, the authors have shown that the OSCS produces a dose‐dependent hypotension in both pigs and rats and that the response in rats can be abrogated with bradyzide, a rodent‐selective B2 bradykinin receptor antagonist. The no observed effect level (NOEL) for this contaminant appears to be approximately 1 mg/kg, corresponding to a contamination level in finished lots of heparin of approximately 3%. Using human plasma, the OSCS derivative was shown to activate kallikrein. These data provide insight into the etiology of the adverse events, particularly refractory hypotension, observed in patients who were exposed to heparin contaminated with OSCS.
Poverty Among Cohabiting Gay and Lesbian, and Married and Cohabiting Heterosexual Families
Authors: Prokos Anastasia H. , Keene Jennifer Reid
Published: February 2010

Using a subsample ( N = 1,365,145) of the 2000 Census 5% Public Use Microdata Sample, the authors investigate explanations for differing poverty chances of cohabiting gay and lesbian, and married and cohabiting heterosexual families. Gay and lesbian couples fare worse than married couples, but better economically than cohabiting heterosexuals. Lesbian and gay families are older and more educated than cohabiting heterosexual families, and these differences explain the largest portion of differences in poverty rates. Greater educational attainment and labor force participation are better explanations than age for differences between married families and their gay and lesbian counterparts. These results add to recent research pointing to variations in the economic circumstances of different family forms.
A naturalistic controlled study of relapsing schizophrenic patients with tardive dyskinesia and supersensitivity psychosis
Authors: Fallon Paul , Dursun Serdar M
Published: February 2010

Despite advances in treatments, relapses in schizophrenia still occur. The causes of relapse are not always apparent, especially for patients that are compliant with medication. One possibility is that the brain adapts to long-term antipsychotic drug treatment, leading to tolerance and withdrawal symptoms. This has been described as supersensitivity psychosis. Tardive dyskinesia is also thought to occur as a consequence of dopamine supersensitivity caused by chronic treatment with antipsychotics. Another associated feature is sensitivity to life stress. This study investigated the relationship between abnormal movements, life events and drug treatment in patients relapsing on antipsychotics with high potency at the dopamine D2 receptor. Twenty-two patients from a cohort of 128 patients experiencing a psychotic relapse were assessed; of these, seven (32%) met criteria for the presence of abnormal involuntary movements. These subjects were found to be clinically distinct from the subjects without abnormal movements. They tended to be older with a greater duration of illness and higher dosage of antipsychotics but more symptoms of psychosis compared with the other subjects. Relapse was also associated with minor life events. The association between abnormal involuntary movements and high levels of psychotic symptoms suggests that dopamine sensitization/supersensitivity may underlie both phenomena. These results suggest that clinicians may have to consider alternative dosing strategies, novel agents or switching to one of the antipsychotics that have a lower affinity for the D2 receptor.
Contrasting Two Frameworks for ROC Analysis of Ordinal Ratings
Authors: Morris Daryl E. , Pepe Margaret Sullivan , Barlow William E.
Published: February 2010

Background. Statistical evaluation of medical imaging tests used for diagnostic and prognostic purposes often employs receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Two methods for ROC analysis are popular. The ordinal regression method is the standard approach used when evaluating tests with ordinal values. The direct ROC modeling method is a more recently developed approach, motivated by applications to tests with continuous values. Objective. The authors compare the methods in terms of model formulations, interpretations of estimated parameters, the ranges of scientific questions that can be addressed with them, their computational algorithms, and the efficiencies with which they use data. Results. The authors show that a strong relationship exists between the methods by demonstrating that they fit the same models when only a single test is evaluated. The ordinal regression models are typically alternative parameterizations of the direct ROC models and vice versa. The direct method has two major advantages over the ordinal regression method: 1) estimated parameters relate directly to ROC curves, facilitating interpretations of covariate effects on ROC performance, and 2) comparisons between tests can be done directly in this framework. Comparisons can be made while accommodating covariate effects and even between tests that have values on different scales, such as between a continuous biomarker test and an ordinal valued imaging test. The ordinal regression method provides slightly more precise parameter estimates from data in our simulated data models. Conclusion. Although the ordinal regression method is slightly more efficient, the direct ROC modeling method has important advantages in regard to interpretation, and it offers a framework to address a broader range of scientific questions, including the facility to compare tests.
Spontaneous Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Captive Prosimians
Authors: Zadrozny L. M. , Williams C. V. , Remick A. K. , Cullen J. M.
Published: February 2010

Spontaneous hepatocellular carcinoma has been reported as a relatively common neoplasm in prosimians; however, the cause is unknown. To investigate possible pathogenic mechanisms, the authors performed a review of all adult animals from a captive prosimian population that had postmortem examinations over the past 10 years. They performed a detailed histologic evaluation of all suspected proliferative liver lesions and diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma in 14 of 145 lemurs (9.7%). Affected animals ranged between the ages of 6 and 40 years old. The tumors had an unusually aggressive growth pattern for animal species; metastasis to the lungs or mediastinum was evident in 7 of 14 animals. Thirty-one animals—9 with hepatocellular carcinomas and 22 age-matched controls without hepatic neoplasia—were tested to evaluate the relationship between hepatic iron stores (as well as other trace metals) and the presence of hepatocellular carcinoma. There was no difference between the hepatic iron, copper, or molybdenum in lemurs with hepatocellular carcinoma and those without, suggesting that iron is not a key element in the pathogenesis of liver tumor formation. Analysis of 22 serum samples from animals with and without liver tumors indicated no evidence of active infection with a hepadnavirus, the virus family that includes hepatitis B virus. Hepatitis C virus and aflatoxin B1 were considered as potential causes and ruled out owing to lack of associated histopathologic lesions. In conclusion, hepatocellular neoplasia is relatively common in captive prosimians, although previously suspected etiologies seem unlikely.
Aligning the CEO’s Incentive Plan With Criteria That Drive Organizational Performance
Authors: Yancey George B.
Published: February 2010

The top human resources executives at 213 credit unions described their CEO compensation practices. The credit unions with CEO incentive plans enjoyed better financial health than did those without CEO incentive plans. The longer the CEO incentive plans had been in place, the better the credit unions’ financial health. The best credit unions were those that incorporated people metrics into their CEO incentive plans, but these made up a small minority. Suggestions are made for improving CEO incentive plans.
The Impact of Competing Definitions of Quality on the Geographical Distribution of Teachers
Authors: Choi Daniel S.
Published: February 2010

According to the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, states are required “…to ensure that poor and minority children are not taught at higher rates than other children by inexperienced, unqualified, or out-of-field teachers…” Although the NCLB law and State Education Agencies (SEAs) currently offer very clear definitions of “highly-qualified” teachers, “teacher quality” remains a contested term—particularly at local levels. Findings from this study suggest the definition of teacher quality determines, in large part, the extent to which the geographical distribution of quality is equitable. A large urban district in Los Angeles demonstrates how different the distribution appears with each definition of teacher quality. In this study, the evidence will show that the distribution is more unequal if the district uses a stronger set of criteria for teacher quality than using the weaker proxies for quality such as full-credential and NCLB definitions.
Ghanaian Pharmacists’ Perception of People Living With HIV and AIDS (PLWHIV)
Authors: Owusu-Daaku Frances Thelma Kwabea , Buanya-Mensah Geraldine
Published: February 2010

To determine Ghanaian pharmacists’ perception of persons living with HIV (PLWHIV), pharmacists and other health care personnel in Ghana completed self-administered questionnaires in 3 separate studies from November 2003 to January 2005. Two of the studies (studies 2 and 3) incorporated 4 simple questions that are generally administered to determine, hypothetically, the degree of discrimination against PLWHIV. Responses to these questions were also analyzed in the 2003 Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS). A nondiscriminatory response to all the indicators reflected an accepting attitude, and a discriminatory response, in at least one indicator, reflected a negative attitude. In study 1, 35% of pharmacists indicated an accepting attitude toward PLWHIV. In study 2, only 17% of the pharmacists sampled indicated an accepting attitude toward PLWHIV. In study 3, none of the 10 pharmacists sampled indicated an accepting attitude toward PLWHIV. However, 19% of the totality of health workers did so. Compared to Ghanaians of similar socioeconomic backgrounds, pharmacists tended to report a more perceived discriminatory attitude toward PLWHIV.
Aqueous extract of Trigonella foenum graecum (fenugreek) prevents cypermethrin-induced hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity
Authors: Sushma Navayath , Devasena Thiyagarajan
Published: February 2010

Cypermethrin (CM) is an important type II pyrethroid pesticide used extensively in pest control and is reported to cause hepatic and renal toxicity. Oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation (LPO) has been implicated in the toxicology of pyrethroids. Fenugreek is known for its antitoxic and antioxidant potential. We have investigated the protective effect of aqueous extract of germinated fenugreek seeds in CM-induced hepatic and renal toxicity. Male Wistar rats were treated with 1/10 LD50(25 mg/kg body weight) of CM and 10% aqueous extract of fenugreek (GFaq) for 60 days. CM treatment caused increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), depletion in glutathione (GSH) and reduction in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) in liver and kidneys. There was a significant reduction in total phospholipids and increased activities of phospholipases A (PLA) and C (PLC) in liver and kidneys and increased activities of serum marker enzymes, aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine tansaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT). Treatment with 10% GFaq showed replenishment of antioxidant status and brought all the values to near normal, indicating the protective effect of fenugreek. Phytochemicals present in fenugreek could play an important role in ameliorating the pesticide-induced toxicity.
Toxico-pathological effects of sodium hypochlorite administration through drinking water in female Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica)
Authors: Hamdullah  , Muhammad Zargham Khan  , Khan Ahrar , Javed Ijaz
Published: February 2010

Fifty female Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) at 40 days were divided into five equal groups. Sodium hypochlorite was added in drinking water to provide 0, 25, 50, 200, 400 mg chlorine/L for 6 weeks. At week 7, the chlorine concentration of 25 and 50 mg groups was increased to 100 mg and further increased to 400, 1600 and 6400 mg at weeks 8, 9 and 10, respectively. At the end the experiment (week 10), all the birds were sacrificed. No clinical signs were observed in quail given 50 mg chlorine/L. Quail given 200—400 mg/L chlorine exhibited decreased feed intake, body weight and egg production. In addition, those given 1600—6400 mg/L chlorine also exhibited depression. Decreased hematocrit, erythrocyte, hemoglobin, leukocytes, plasma proteins and globulin were observed at 200 mg/L chlorine and higher concentration. Gross lesions were not observed in quail offered 200—400 mg/L chlorine for 6 weeks; however, those offered 1600—6400 mg/L chlorine exhibited atrophied pectoral muscles, prominently protruding keel bones, decreased weight of ovary and oviduct and a reduction in an area of the different segments of oviduct. The histopathological picture in mucosa of oviduct consisted of degenerated glandular cells. In some cases, glandular tissue was replaced by cord of cells and fibroblast. The present study suggested that sodium hypochlorite in drinking water yielding 50 mg/L chlorine was not toxic for 6 weeks. However, sodium hypochlorite providing 200 mg/L chlorine or higher concentrations in drinking water was toxic to the quail.
Marketing strategies for visibility
Authors: Ashcroft Linda
Published: February 2010

Any organization must build a good reputation and image in order to ‘anchor’ its relevance and indispensability in the minds of a wide variety of audiences. Many commercial organizations maximize opportunities to raise favourable awareness about what they do — and their techniques and approaches can be applied to libraries. Examples from organizations such as supermarkets, charities and tourism demonstrate how they have taken an opportunity to draw national and international media attention and to promote themselves favourably to a wide audience. Techniques demonstrating the significance of the right timing, the importance of having the right resources in place and using the right means of communication to reach the various audiences involved relate in the same way to libraries as to other organizations. Sponsorship is now big business, going beyond the commercial sector as some libraries are now negotiating effective sponsorship deals and attracting favourable media coverage in doing so. Ongoing evaluation informs marketing techniques to build on success and maximize publicity.
Perceived Social Competency in Children With Brain Tumors: Comparison Between Children on and off Therapy
Authors: Hardy Kristina K. , Willard Victoria W. , Watral Melody Ann , Bonner Melanie J.
Published: February 2010

Children with brain tumors are at risk for a number of cognitive, academic, and social difficulties as a consequence of their illness and its treatment. Of these, the least is known about social functioning, particularly over the course of the illness. Thirty children with brain tumors were evaluated using neurocognitive and psychological measures, including a measure of perceived competency. Results indicated that off-therapy brain tumor patients reported more concerns about their social competence than both a normative sample and children on treatment. Findings highlight the need for more research aimed at helping survivors cope with long-term stressors associated with their illness.
My Name Is Maria: Supporting English Language Learners in the Kindergarten General Music Classroom
Authors: Miranda Martina
Published: February 2010

For many young children who are English language learners (ELLs), the transition from home to kindergarten can be challenging. Music teachers face the challenge of working with all individuals in a student population and often engage with children who represent home environments whose native language is not English. As ELL students adjust to the new school environment, adults and peers can provide support in learning the new language. Tabors and Snow identify four periods of language use by ELL students: use of the home language, a nonverbal period, participation through use of short phrases, and use of productive language. This article addresses the context for supporting oral language development through an examination of common strategies demonstrated by ELL students. Through the lens of one case study, general music teachers can gain an understanding of ELL strategies and consider instructional practices that support sequential language acquisition for ELL students and for all learners.
A Theoretical Understanding of Sickness Absence Among Women Who Have Experienced Workplace Bullying
Authors: O'Donnell Sue , MacIntosh Judith , Wuest Judith
Published: February 2010

Historically, we have assumed that workplaces, where employed individuals spend approximately one third of their days, provide safe and supportive environments and opportunities to enhance women’s capacities. Unfortunately, workplace bullying and consequent sickness absence are prevalent and costly realities that significantly influence women’s health. In this study, sickness absence among 18 Canadian women who were targets of workplace bullying was explored using a grounded theory secondary analysis. Findings show that although sickness absence is critical in attenuating the health consequences of being bullied, it is a partial solution because rehabilitation and successful return to work is challenged when working conditions remain unchanged. This problem is addressed using is a three-stage process of discerning a path that involves gaining space, making sense, and moving forward. Organizational support is critical to all stages of the process; it can reduce the risk of declines in health and sickness absence, and is essential for successful return to work.
How Low-Income Mothers With Overweight Preschool Children Make Sense of Obesity
Authors: Hughes Cayce C. , Sherman Susan N. , Whitaker Robert C.
Published: February 2010

Epidemiologic and qualitative studies have found that most mothers with overweight preschool children do not think their children are overweight. This might present a challenge for clinicians who wish to address obesity in young children. To understand mothers’ perceptions of their overweight children’s weight, we conducted semistructured interviews with 21 mothers of overweight preschool children enrolled in Kentucky’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children. Although these mothers did not label their children as overweight, they were worried about children’s weight, particularly as it related to their emotional well-being. These worries about obesity were reflected in three central tensions that shaped the way mothers perceived their children’s weight and informed maternal feeding strategies: (a) nature vs. nurture, (b) medical authority vs. lived experience, and (c) relieving immediate stress vs. preventing long-term consequences. Acknowledging mothers’ concerns and tensions might help clinicians communicate more effectively with them about obesity.
Identifying Cultural Representations of Families and the Health Team to Improve the Management of Severe Malnutrition in Childhood
Authors: Castillo-Carniglia Alvaro , Weisstaub Sergio Gerardo , Aguirre Patricia , Aguilar Ana María , Araya Magdalena
Published: February 2010

Severe childhood malnutrition is no longer a priority in Latin America, but mortality of hospitalized malnourished children continues to be high, especially in Bolivia. The objective of the present study was to identify cultural representations in mothers and in health personnel that might influence the relationship between the family and the provider’s health care services, thus affecting the treatment of malnourished children. We applied a flexible qualitative model of cases and controls (mothers or caregivers of both under- and well-nourished children), and in addition, health personnel. Results were analyzed following semiotics of statements. Mothers and health professionals based their cultural representations on different conceptions of health. The mothers’ mindset indicated that traditional Andean medicine and public health systems are complementary and not contradictory. Conversely, health personnel expressed a univocal vision, accepting only biomedicine. Furthermore, they also expressed a negative attitude toward mothers of severely malnourished children. Results should be considered to improve ongoing local health programs.
The Lived Experience of Girl-to-Girl Aggression in Marginalized Girls
Authors: Zenz Adamshick Pamela
Published: February 2010

Girl-to-girl aggression is increasingly being recognized as a health problem, and the number of teenage girls involved in serious fighting is on the rise. Research on the experiences of girl-to-girl aggression in marginalized girls who are out of the mainstream because of poor relationship skills and physical aggression is notably absent, yet this group is at heightened risk for persistent violence. In this study I used the interpretive phenomenological approach to study the lived experience of girl-to-girl aggression in girls who were marginalized and attending an alternative school because of physically aggressive behavior. Data were collected over a 4-month period by means of in-depth interviews and field notes. For this population, girl-to-girl aggression provided self-protection, expressed girls’ identity, and was also a means to finding attachment, connection, and friendship. These findings have multidisciplinary implications for interventions with physically aggressive girls, including mentoring programs, in-school support groups, and exploration of a paradigm shift in the use of alternative schools.
A Qualitative Assessment of the Concept of Dependence in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Frank Lori , Howard Kellee , Jones Roy , Lacey Loretto , Leibman Chris , Lleo Alberto , Mannix Sally , Mucha Lisa , McLaughlin Trent , Zarit Steve
Published: February 2010

Background: The Dependence Scale (DS) was designed to assess levels of patient need for care due to deficits typical of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study examined content validity of the DS based on input from patients, caregivers, and clinicians. Methods: Qualitative interviews with experts, patients, and caregivers were used to collect information on the concept of dependence and to assess content validity. Results: Nine clinicians rated item relevance ‘‘high’’ with consensus on the primacy of functional abilities and dependence in the measurement of AD progression. Twenty-two US, 11 UK, and 14 informal caregivers from Spain participated in focus groups; 18 patients participated in 3 separate focus groups. Discussion supported DS hierarchy of dependence, capture of mild-to-severe dependence, suitability of response options, and short recall time frame. Conclusions: Clinicians, caregivers, and patients support content validity of the DS in mild-to-moderate AD. The DS may be valuable to capture dependence within future clinical dementia trials.
Caregiver Perspectives on Transitions to Assisted Living and Memory Care
Authors: Kelsey Susan G. , Laditka Sarah B. , Laditka James N.
Published: February 2010

This study describes family caregivers’ experiences moving relatives with Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders (ADRD) from their homes to assisted living facilities (ALFs) and subsequently to memory care units (MCUs). We also examined how these experiences differed between caregiver dyad types, such as adult children caring for parents. In-depth interviews with 15 caregivers were transcribed verbatim. Grounded theory identified themes. Constant comparative analysis compared experiences of caregiver dyads. Most caregivers recognized the likely need for future specialized care at the time of the move to the ALF, but did not recall receiving information about transfer policies. The ALF move was harder for spouses, the MCU move for adult children. Assisted living facilities can improve support for caregivers facing a relative’s MCU transition through education about advantages of MCU placement and information about transfer policies. Support needs during transitions may differ between adult children and spouses.
A TAD better for myeloma therapy?
Authors: Giralt Sergio
Published: February 2010

In this issue of Blood, Lokhorst and colleagues report on the results of HOVON-50, a phase 3 randomized trial designed to evaluate the effects of thalidomide during induction treatment and as maintenance in patients with multiple myeloma. There were 556 patients randomly assigned either to 3 cycles of VAD or to TAD. All patients were to receive high-dose melphalan with autologous stem cell support followed by maintenance with interferon for the VAD arm or thalidomide for the TAD arm.1 This study together with other randomized and nonrandomized trials establish a definitive role for thalidomide as induction therapy in conjunction with dexamethasone, anthracyclines, and alkylating agents.
NK-cell education: KIR-S come into play
Authors: Walzer Thierry
Published: February 2010

In this issue of Blood, Fauriat and colleagues find that the expression of KIR2DS1 by human NK cells is associated with a decreased responsiveness to various stimuli in HLA C2/C2 but not in C1/C1 persons.
A novel KIR-associated function: evidence that CpG DNA uptake and shuttling to early endosomes is mediated by KIR3DL2
Authors: Sivori Simona , Falco Michela , Carlomagno Simona , Romeo Elisa , Soldani Cristiana , Bensussan Armand , Viola Antonella , Moretta Lorenzo , Moretta Alessandro
Published: February 2010

Human natural killer (NK) cells express Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) transcript and, upon exposure to microbial CpG oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN), release cytokines and kill target cells. Here we show that NK cell treatment with CpG ODN results in down-modulation of KIR3DL2 inhibitory receptor from the cell surface and in its cointernalization with CpG ODN. CpG ODN–induced interferon-γ (IFN-γ) release is mostly confined to KIR3DL2+ NK cells, thus suggesting a crucial role of KIR3DL2 in CpG ODN–mediated NK responses. Using soluble receptor molecules, we demonstrate the direct binding of KIR3DL2 to ODNs and we show that the D0 domain is involved primarily in this interaction. KIR3DL2 modulation is also induced in malignant cells of Sézary cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, a disease in which KIR3DL2 represents a typical marker of malignant T cells. Confocal microscopy analysis suggests that, in human NK cells, CpG ODN can encounter TLR9 in early endosomes after being shuttled to these sites by KIR3DL2, which functions as a CpG ODN receptor at the cell surface. This novel KIR-associated function emphasizes the antimicrobial role of NK cells in the course of infection.
The zebrafish genome encodes the largest vertebrate repertoire of functional aquaporins with dual paralogy and substrate specificities similar to mammals
Authors: Tingaud-Sequeira Angèle , Calusinska Magdalena , Finn Roderick N , Chauvigné François , Lozano Juanjo , Cerdà Joan
Published: February 2010

Background

Aquaporins are integral membrane proteins that facilitate the transport of water and small solutes across cell membranes. These proteins are vital for maintaining water homeostasis in living organisms. In mammals, thirteen aquaporins (AQP0-12) have been characterized, but in lower vertebrates, such as fish, the diversity, structure and substrate specificity of these membrane channel proteins are largely unknown.

Results

The screening and isolation of transcripts from the zebrafish (Danio rerio) genome revealed eighteen sequences structurally related to the four subfamilies of tetrapod aquaporins, i.e., aquaporins (AQP0, -1 and -4), water and glycerol transporters or aquaglyceroporins (Glps; AQP3 and AQP7-10), a water and urea transporter (AQP8), and two unorthodox aquaporins (AQP11 and -12). Phylogenetic analyses of nucleotide and deduced amino acid sequences demonstrated dual paralogy between teleost and human aquaporins. Three of the duplicated zebrafish isoforms have unlinked loci, two have linked loci, while DrAqp8 was found in triplicate across two chromosomes. Genomic sequencing, structural analysis, and maximum likelihood reconstruction, further revealed the presence of a putative pseudogene that displays hybrid exons similar to tetrapod AQP5 and -1. Ectopic expression of the cloned transcripts in Xenopus laevis oocytes demonstrated that zebrafish aquaporins and Glps transport water or water, glycerol and urea, respectively, whereas DrAqp11b and -12 were not functional in oocytes. Contrary to humans and some rodents, intrachromosomal duplicates of zebrafish AQP8 were water and urea permeable, while the genomic duplicate only transported water. All aquaporin transcripts were expressed in adult tissues and found to have divergent expression patterns. In some tissues, however, redundant expression of transcripts encoding two duplicated paralogs seems to occur.

Conclusion

The zebrafish genome encodes the largest repertoire of functional vertebrate aquaporins with dual paralogy to human isoforms. Our data reveal an early and specific diversification of these integral membrane proteins at the root of the crown-clade of Teleostei. Despite the increase in gene copy number, zebrafish aquaporins mostly retain the substrate specificity characteristic of the tetrapod counterparts. Based upon the integration of phylogenetic, genomic and functional data we propose a new classification for the piscine aquaporin superfamily.
Positive selection neighboring functionally essential sites and disease-implicated regions of mammalian reproductive proteins
Authors: Morgan Claire C , Loughran Noeleen B , Walsh Thomas A , Harrison Alan J , O'Connell Mary J
Published: February 2010

Background

Reproductive proteins are central to the continuation of all mammalian species. The evolution of these proteins has been greatly influenced by environmental pressures induced by pathogens, rival sperm, sexual selection and sexual conflict. Positive selection has been demonstrated in many of these proteins with particular focus on primate lineages. However, themammaliaare a diverse group in terms of mating habits, population sizes and germ line generation times. We have examined the selective pressures at work on a number of novel reproductive proteins across a wide variety ofmammalia.

Results

We show that selective pressures on reproductive proteins are highly varied. Of the 10 genes analyzed in detail, all contain signatures of positive selection either across specific sites or in specific lineages or a combination of both. Our analysis of SP56 and Col1a1 are entirely novel and the results show positively selected sites present in each gene. Our findings for the Col1a1 gene are suggestive of a link between positive selection and severe disease type. We find evidence in our dataset to suggest that interacting proteins are evolving in symphony: most likely to maintain interacting functionality.

Conclusion

Ourin silicoanalyses show positively selected sites are occurring near catalytically important regions suggesting selective pressure to maximize efficient fertilization. In those cases where a mechanism of protein function is not fully understood, the sites presented here represent ideal candidates for mutational study. This work has highlighted the widespread rate heterogeneity in mutational rates across themammaliaand specifically has shown that the evolution of reproductive proteins is highly varied depending on the species and interacting partners. We have shown that positive selection and disease are closely linked in the Col1a1 gene.
Dopamine D2 receptor polymorphisms and susceptibility to alcohol dependence in Indian males: a preliminary study
Authors: Prasad Pushplata , Ambekar Atul , Vaswani Meera
Published: February 2010

Background

Dopamine is an important neurotransmitter involved in reward mechanism in the brain and thereby influences development and relapse of alcohol dependence. The dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene on chromosome 11 (q22-q23) has been found to be associated with increased alcohol consumption through mechanisms involving incentive salience attributions and craving in alcoholic patients. Therefore, we investigated the association of three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in DRD2 gene with alcohol dependence in the north Indian subjects.

Methods

In a retrospective analysis, genetic association of three polymorphisms from DRD2 gene with alcohol dependence was investigated using a case-control approach. Alcohol dependence was determined by DSM-IV criteria and a total of 90 alcoholics and 60 healthy unrelated age-matched control subjects were recruited. Odds ratio and confidence interval was calculated to determine risk conferred by a predisposing allele/genotype/haplotype. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to correlate various clinical parameters with genotypes, and to study pair-wise interactions between SNPs.

Results

The study showed a significant association of -141C Ins allele and a trend of association of TaqI A1 allele of DRD2 with alcohol dependence. Haplotype with the predisposing -141C Ins and TaqI A1 alleles (-141C Ins-A-A1) seems to confer ≈ 2.5 times more risk to develop alcohol dependence.

Conclusions

The study provides preliminary insight into genetic risk to alcohol dependence in Indian males. Two polymorphisms namely, -141C Ins/Del and TaqI A in DRD2 gene may have clinical implications among Indian alcoholic subjects.
Mitotic slippage in non-cancer cells induced by a microtubule disruptor, disorazole C1
Authors: Xu Fengfeng L , Rbaibi Youssef , Kiselyov Kirill , Lazo John S , Wipf Peter , Saunders William S
Published: February 2010

Background

Disorazoles are polyene macrodiolides isolated from a myxobacterium fermentation broth. Disorazole C1 was newly synthesized and found to depolymerize microtubules and cause mitotic arrest. Here we examined the cellular responses to disorazole C1 in both non-cancer and cancer cells and compared our results to vinblastine and taxol.

Results

In non-cancer cells, disorazole C1 induced a prolonged mitotic arrest, followed by mitotic slippage, as confirmed by live cell imaging and cell cycle analysis. This mitotic slippage was associated with cyclin B degradation, but did not require p53. Four assays for apoptosis, including western blotting for poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage, microscopic analyses for cytochrome C release and annexin V staining, and gel electrophoresis examination for DNA laddering, were conducted and demonstrated little induction of apoptosis in non-cancer cells treated with disorazole C1. On the contrary, we observed an activated apoptotic pathway in cancer cells, suggesting that normal and malignant cells respond differently to disorazole C1.

Conclusion

Our studies demonstrate that non-cancer cells undergo mitotic slippage in a cyclin B-dependent and p53-independent manner after prolonged mitotic arrest caused by disorazole C1. In contrast, cancer cells induce the apoptotic pathway after disorazole C1 treatment, indicating a possibly significant therapeutic window for this compound.
Targeting lentiviral vector to specific cell types through surface displayed single chain antibody and fusogenic molecule
Authors: Lei Yuning , Joo Kye-Il , Zarzar Jonathan , Wong Clement , Wang Pin
Published: February 2010

Background

Viral delivery remains one of the most commonly used techniques today in the field of gene therapy. However, one of the remaining hurdles is the off-targeting effect of viral delivery. To overcome this obstacle, we recently developed a method to incorporate an antibody and a fusogenic molecule (FM) as two distinct molecules into the lentiviral surface. In this report, we expand this strategy to utilize a single chain antibody (SCAb) for targeted transduction.

Results

Two versions of the SCAb were generated to pair with our various engineered FMs by linking the heavy chain and the light chain variable domains of the anti-CD20 antibody (αCD20) via a GS linker and fusing them to the hinge-CH2-CH3 region of human IgG. The resulting protein was fused to either a HLA-A2 transmembrane domain or a VSVG transmembrane domain for anchoring purpose. Lentiviral vectors generated with either version of the SCAb and a selected FM were then characterized for binding and fusion activities in CD20-expressing cells.

Conclusion

Certain combinations of the SCAb with various FMs could result in an increase in viral transduction. This two-molecule lentiviral vector system design allows for parallel optimization of the SCAb and FMs to improve targeted gene delivery.
The value of preoperative diagnostic tests in acute appendicitis, retrospective analysis of 196 patients
Authors: Memisoglu Kemal , Karip Bora , Mestan Metin , Onur Ender
Published: February 2010

Background

In this study our aim was to evaluate the diagnostic value of preoperative laboratory and radiological studies for appendicitis.

Methods

The clinical data of 196 patients who have undergone conventional appendectomy between March 2007 and April 2008 were collected retrospectively. Patients were examined for age, sex, white blood cell count, ultrasonography results, histopathological diagnosis and hospital stay.

Results

Negative appendectomy rate was 17.3% (27% for female, 11.5% for male). White blood cell counts were found to be high in 83% for acute appendicitis group and %61 for negative appendectomy group. There were 66 (34%) patients who had negative USG findings for acute appendicitis. Of these patients, histopathological examination revealed acute appendicitis in 46 patients whereas 20 patients had normal appendix. Hospital stays were 2.79 +/- 1.9 and 2.66 +/- 1.7 days for negative and positive appendicectomies respectively.

Conclusions

Besides the improvement of diagnostic tests for acute appendicitis, we could not sufficiently reduce the negative appendectomy rate.
The burden of acute respiratory infections in crisis-affected populations: a systematic review
Authors: Bellos Anna , Mulholland Kim , O'Brien Katherine L , Qazi Shamim A , Gayer Michelle , Checchi Francesco
Published: February 2010

Crises due to armed conflict, forced displacement and natural disasters result in excess morbidity and mortality due to infectious diseases. Historically, acute respiratory infections (ARIs) have received relatively little attention in the humanitarian sector. We performed a systematic review to generate evidence on the burden of ARI in crises, and inform prioritisation of relief interventions. We identified 36 studies published since 1980 reporting data on the burden (incidence, prevalence, proportional morbidity or mortality, case-fatality, attributable mortality rate) of ARI, as defined by the International Classification of Diseases, version 10 and as diagnosed by a clinician, in populations who at the time of the study were affected by natural disasters, armed conflict, forced displacement, and nutritional emergencies. We described studies and stratified data by age group, but did not do pooled analyses due to heterogeneity in case definitions. The published evidence, mainly from refugee camps and surveillance or patient record review studies, suggests very high excess morbidity and mortality (20-35% proportional mortality) and case-fatality (up to 30-35%) due to ARI. However, ARI disease burden comparisons with non-crisis settings are difficult because of non-comparability of data. Better epidemiological studies with clearer case definitions are needed to provide the evidence base for priority setting and programme impact assessments. Humanitarian agencies should include ARI prevention and control among infants, children and adults as priority activities in crises. Improved data collection, case management and vaccine strategies will help to reduce disease burden.