bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth responses of riparian Thuja occidentalis to the damming of a large boreal lake
Authors: Denneler Bernhard , Bergeron Yves , Bégin Yves , Asselin Hugo
Published: April 2008

Growth responses of riparian eastern white cedar trees ( Thuja occidentalis L.) to the double damming of a large lake in the southeastern Canadian boreal forest was analyzed to determine whether the shoreline tree limit is the result of physiological flood stress or mechanical disturbances. The first damming, in 1915, caused a rise in water level of ca. 1.2 m and resulted in the death of the trees that formed the ancient shoreline forest, as well as the wounding and tilting of the surviving trees (by wave action and ice push) that constitute the present forest margin. The second damming, in 1922, did not further affect the water level, but did retard the occurrence of spring high water levels, as well as reduce their magnitude. However, this did not injure or affect the mortality of riparian eastern white cedars. Radial growth was not affected by flooding stress, probably because inundation occurred prior to the start of the growing season (1915–1921) or was of too short duration to adversely affect tree metabolism (after 1921). It follows that (i) the shoreline limit of eastern white cedar is a mechanical rather than a physiological limit, and (ii) disturbance-related growth responses (e.g., ice scars, partial cambium dieback, and compression wood) are better parameters than ring width for the reconstruction of long-term water level increases of natural, unregulated lakes.
THE ALGEBRAIC STRUCTURE OF ZERO CURVATURE REPRESENTATIONS ASSOCIATED WITH INTEGRABLE COUPLINGS
Authors: LUO LIN , MA WEN-XIU , FAN EN-GUI
Published: April 2008

The commutator of enlarged vector fields was explicitly computed for integrable coupling systems associated with semidirect sums of Lie algebras. An algebraic structure of zero curvature representations is then established for such integrable coupling systems. As an application example of this algebraic structure, the commutation relations of Lax operators corresponding to the enlarged isospectral and nonisospectral AKNS flows are worked out, and thus a τ-symmetry algebra for the AKNS integrable couplings is engendered from this theory.
CFTR inhibition augments NHE3 activity during luminal high CO2exposure in rat duodenal mucosa
Authors: Mizumori Misa , Choi Yuri , Guth Paul H. , Engel Eli , Kaunitz Jonathan D. , Akiba Yasutada
Published: April 2008

We hypothesized that the function of duodenocyte apical membrane acid-base transporters are essential for H+absorption from the lumen. We thus examined the effect of inhibition of Na+/H+exchanger-3 (NHE3), cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR), or apical anion exchangers on transmucosal CO2diffusion and HCO3−secretion in rat duodenum. Duodena were perfused with a pH 6.4 high CO2solution or pH 2.2 low CO2solution with the NHE3 inhibitor, S3226, the anion transport inhibitor, DIDS, or pretreatment with the potent CFTR inhibitor, CFTRinh-172, with simultaneous measurements of luminal and portal venous (PV) pH and carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]). Luminal high CO2solution increased CO2absorption and HCO3−secretion, accompanied by PV acidification and PV Pco2increase. During CO2challenge, CFTRinh-172 induced HCO3−absorption, while inhibiting PV acidification. S3226 reversed CFTRinh-associated HCO3−absorption. Luminal pH 2.2 challenge increased H+and CO2absorption and acidified the PV, inhibited by CFTRinh-172 and DIDS, but not by S3226. CFTR inhibition and DIDS reversed HCO3−secretion to absorption and inhibited PV acidification during CO2challenge, suggesting that HCO3−secretion helps facilitate CO2/H+absorption. Furthermore, CFTR inhibition prevented CO2-induced cellular acidification reversed by S3226. Reversal of increased HCO3−loss by NHE3 inhibition and reduced intracellular acidification during CFTR inhibition is consistent with activation or unmasking of NHE3 activity by CFTR inhibition, increasing cell surface H+available to neutralize luminal HCO3−with consequent CO2absorption. NHE3, by secreting H+into the luminal microclimate, facilitates net transmucosal HCO3−absorption with a mechanism similar to proximal tubular HCO3−absorption.
Vasoprotective effects of resveratrol and SIRT1: attenuation of cigarette smoke-induced oxidative stress and proinflammatory phenotypic alterations
Authors: Csiszar Anna , Labinskyy Nazar , Podlutsky Andrej , Kaminski Pawel M. , Wolin Michael S. , Zhang Cuihua , Mukhopadhyay Partha , Pacher Pal , Hu Furong , de Cabo Rafael , Ballabh Praveen , Ungvari Zoltan
Published: April 2008

The dietary polyphenolic compound resveratrol, by activating the protein deacetylase enzyme silent information regulator 2/sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), prolongs life span in evolutionarily distant organisms and may mimic the cytoprotective effects of dietary restriction. The present study was designed to elucidate the effects of resveratrol on cigarette smoke-induced vascular oxidative stress and inflammation, which is a clinically highly relevant model of accelerated vascular aging. Cigarette smoke exposure of rats impaired the acetylcholine-induced relaxation of carotid arteries, which could be prevented by resveratrol treatment. Smoking and in vitro treatment with cigarette smoke extract (CSE) increased reactive oxygen species production in rat arteries and cultured coronary arterial endothelial cells (CAECs), respectively, which was attenuated by resveratrol treatment. The smoking-induced upregulation of inflammatory markers (ICAM-1, inducible nitric oxide synthase, IL-6, and TNF-α) in rat arteries was also abrogated by resveratrol treatment. Resveratrol also inhibited CSE-induced NF-κB activation and inflammatory gene expression in CAECs. In CAECs, the aforementioned protective effects of resveratrol were abolished by knockdown of SIRT1, whereas the overexpression of SIRT1 mimicked the effects of resveratrol. Resveratrol treatment of rats protected aortic endothelial cells against cigarette smoking-induced apoptotic cell death. Resveratrol also exerted antiapoptotic effects in CSE-treated CAECs, which could be abrogated by knockdown of SIRT1. Resveratrol treatment also attenuated CSE-induced DNA damage in CAECs (comet assay). Thus resveratrol and SIRT1 exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects, which protect the endothelial cells against the adverse effects of cigarette smoking-induced oxidative stress. The vasoprotective effects of resveratrol will likely contribute to its antiaging action in mammals and may be especially beneficial in pathophysiological conditions associated with accelerated vascular aging.
Effective arterial elastance as an index of pulmonary vascular load
Authors: Morimont Philippe , Lambermont Bernard , Ghuysen Alexandre , Gerard Paul , Kolh Philippe , Lancellotti Patrizio , Tchana-Sato Vincent , Desaive Thomas , D'Orio Vincent
Published: April 2008

The aim of this study was to test whether the simple ratio of right ventricular (RV) end-systolic pressure (Pes) to stroke volume (SV), known as the effective arterial elastance ( Ea), provides a valid assessment of pulmonary arterial load in case of pulmonary embolism- or endotoxin-induced pulmonary hypertension. Ventricular pressure-volume (PV) data (obtained with conductance catheters) and invasive pulmonary arterial pressure and flow waveforms were simultaneously recorded in two groups of six pure Pietran pigs, submitted either to pulmonary embolism ( group A) or endotoxic shock ( group B). Measurements were obtained at baseline and each 30 min after injection of autologous blood clots (0.3 g/kg) in the superior vena cava in group A and after endotoxin infusion in group B. Two methods of calculation of pulmonary arterial load were compared. On one hand, Ea provided by using three-element windkessel model (WK) of the pulmonary arterial system [ Ea(WK)] was referred to as standard computation. On the other hand, similar to the systemic circulation, Ea was assessed as the ratio of RV Pes to SV [ Ea(PV) = Pes/SV]. In both groups, although the correlation between Ea(PV) and Ea(WK) was excellent over a broad range of altered conditions, Ea(PV) systematically overestimated Ea(WK). This offset disappeared when left atrial pressure (Pla) was incorporated into Ea [ Ea * (PV) = (Pes − Pla)/SV]. Thus Ea * (PV), defined as the ratio of RV Pes minus Pla to SV, provides a convenient, useful, and simple method to assess the pulmonary arterial load and its impact on the RV function.
Jump exercise during remobilization restores integrity of the trabecular architecture after tail suspension in young rats
Authors: Ju Y-I. , Sone T. , Okamoto T. , Fukunaga M.
Published: April 2008

Three-dimensional trabecular architecture was investigated in the femora of tail-suspended young growing rats, and the effects of jump exercise during remobilization were examined. Five-week-old male Wistar rats ( n = 35) were randomly assigned to five body weight-matched groups: tail-suspended group (SUS; n = 7); sedentary control group for SUS (SCON; n = 7); spontaneous recovery group after tail suspension (S+RCON, n = 7); jump exercise group after tail suspension (S+RJUM; n = 7); and age-matched control group for S+RCONand S+RJUMwithout tail suspension and exercise (SCON+RCON; n = 7). Rats in SUS and SCONwere killed immediately after tail suspension for 14 days. The jump exercise protocol consisted of 10 jumps/day, 5 days/wk, and jump height was 40 cm. Bone mineral density (BMD) of the femur and three-dimensional trabecular bone architecture at the distal femoral metaphysis were measured. Tail suspension induced a 13.6% decrease in total femoral BMD ( P < 0.001) and marked deterioration of trabecular architecture. After 5 wk of free remobilization, femoral BMD, calf muscle weight, and body weight returned to age-matched control levels, but trabeculae remained thinner and less connected. On the other hand, S+RJUMrats showed significant increases in trabecular thickness, number, and connectivity compared with S+RCONrats (62.8, 31.6, and 24.7%, respectively; P < 0.05), and these parameters of trabecular architecture returned to the levels of SCON+RCON. These results indicate that suspension-induced trabecular deterioration persists after remobilization, but jump exercise during remobilization can restore the integrity of trabecular architecture and bone mass in the femur in young growing rats.
Adenosine induces a cholinergic tracheal reflex contraction in guinea pigs in vivo via an adenosine A1receptor-dependent mechanism
Authors: Reynolds Sandra M. , Docherty Reginald , Robbins Jon , Spina Domenico , Page Clive P.
Published: April 2008

Adenosine induces dyspnea, cough, and airways obstruction in asthma, a phenomenon that also occurs in various sensitized animal models in which a neuronal involvement has been implicated. Although adenosine has been suggested to activate cholinergic nerves, the precise mechanism has not been established. In the present study, the adenosine A1receptor agonist N6-cyclopentyladenosine (CPA) induced a cholinergic reflex, causing tracheal smooth muscle contraction that was significantly inhibited by the adenosine A1receptor antagonist 8-cyclopentyl-1,3-dipropylxanthine (DPCPX; 100 μg/kg) ( P < 0.05) in anesthetized animals. Furthermore, the adenosine A2agonist 2- p-(2-carboxyethyl) phenethylamino-5′- N-ethylcarboxamidoadenosine (CGS-21680) induced a small reflex, whereas the A3selective agonist N6-(3-iodobenzyl)-5'- N-methylcarbamoyladenosine (IB-MECA) was without effect. The tracheal reflex induced by CPA was also inhibited by recurrent nerve ligation or muscarinic receptor blockade ( P < 0.001), indicating that a cholinergic neuronal mechanism of action accounted for this response. The cholinergic reflex in response to aerosolized CPA was significantly greater in passively sensitized compared with naive guinea pigs ( P < 0.01). Chronic capsaicin treatment, which inhibited sensory nerve function, failed to inhibit CPA-induced reflex tracheal contractions in passively sensitized guinea pigs, although the local anesthetic lidocaine inhibited CPA-induced tracheal contractions. The effects of CPA on the reflex response was not dependent on the release of histamine from tissue mast cells or endogenous prostaglandins as shown by the lack of effect of the histamine H1receptor antagonist pyrilamine (1 mg/kg) or the cyclooxygenase inhibitor meclofenamic acid (3 mg/kg), respectively. In conclusion, activation of pulmonary adenosine A1receptors can stimulate cholinergic reflexes, and these reflexes are increased in allergic guinea pigs.
Lack of αvβ5 Integrin Receptor or Its Ligand MFG-E8: Distinct Effects on Retinal Function
Authors: Nandrot Emeline F. , Finnemann Silvia C.
Published: April 2008

Background/Aims: Diurnal phagocytosis of spent photoreceptor outer segment fragments by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is critical for vision. We recently identified an important role for αvβ5 integrin receptors and their ligand Milk fat globule-EGF factor 8 (MFG-E8) in RPE phagocytosis. Methods: We compared RPE phagocytosis and retinal function between mice deficient in αvβ5 integrin receptors and mice deficient in the secreted integrin ligand MFG-E8. Results: Both β5–/– and MFG-E8–/– mice exhibit the same phagocytic defect: RPE cells retain basal uptake activity but completely lack the burst of phagocytic activity as well as the rhythmic activation of Mer tyrosine kinase that follow circadian photoreceptor shedding in wild-type RPE. Strikingly, electroretinogram photoresponses decline with age only in β5–/– but not in MFG-E8–/– retina. Conclusion: These results identify a critical role of αvβ5 integrin receptors and their ligand MFG-E8 in synchronizing retinal phagocytosis. Additionally, we show that lack of αvβ5 receptors and MFG-E8 ligand have distinct consequences for retinal function. These intriguing results suggest that loss of phagocytic rhythm is not solely responsible for the age-related blindness of β5–/– mice.
Drainage of Fluorescent Liposomes from the Vitreous to Cervical Lymph Nodes via Conjunctival Lymphatics
Authors: Camelo S. , Lajavardi L. , Bochot A. , Goldenberg B. , Naud M.C. , Fattal E. , Behar-Cohen F. , de Kozak Y.
Published: April 2008

The use of liposomes as carriers for the delivery of biologically active molecules into the eye is of major interest. Indeed, encapsulation of biologically active molecules in liposomes may increase their bioavailability and may induce a sustained release, thus avoiding repeated intraocular injections and reducing side effects. We describe here the fate of rhodamine-conjugated liposomes (Rh-Lip) injected into the vitreous of normal Lewis rats. Twenty-four hours after intravitreal injection fluorescent liposomes were detected in the vitreous, the inner layer of the retina and to a lesser extent in the anterior segment of the eye. In addition, numerous Rh-Lip were also observed in the episclera and conjunctival stroma, in conjunctival lymphatic vessels and cervical lymph nodes (LN) draining the conjunctiva and the eye. In the LN, Rh-Lip were taken up by resident macrophages adjacent to CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Thus, intravitreal injection of anti-inflammatory drugs loaded in liposomes could modulate the ocular immune microenvironment. In addition the passage of drugs into the cervical LN could alter the immune status of these LN and contribute to the regulation of intraocular inflammation. Our results suggest that this phenomenon should be taken into account to design new therapies based on intraocular drug administration.
Equine Recurrent Uveitis – A Spontaneous Horse Model of Uveitis
Authors: Deeg Cornelia A. , Hauck Stefanie M. , Amann Barbara , Pompetzki Dirk , Altmann Frank , Raith Albert , Schmalzl Thomas , Stangassinger Manfred , Ueffing Marius
Published: April 2008

Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is an autoimmune disease that occurs with a high prevalence (10%) in horses. ERU represents the only reliable spontaneous model for human autoimmune uveitis. We already identified and characterized novel autoantigens (malate dehydrogenase, recoverin, CRALBP) by analyzing the autoantibody-binding pattern of horses affected by spontaneous recurrent uveitis (ERU) to the retinal proteome. CRALBP also seems to be relevant to human autoimmune uveitis. Proteomic screening of vitreous and retinal samples from ERU diseased cases in comparison to healthy controls has led to the identification of a series of differentially regulated proteins, which are functionally linked to the immune system and the maintenance of the blood-retinal barrier.
Primate Model of Uveoretinitis and Vasculitis/Experimental Autoimmune Uveoretinitis Induced in Cynomolgus Monkeys by Retinal S Antigen
Authors: LeHoang Phuc , Sterkers Margaret , Thillaye Brigitte , de Kozak Yvonne , Coscas Gabriel , Faure Jean Pierre
Published: April 2008

Purpose: We aimed to describe the clinical and angiographic changes in an experimental model of autoimmune uveoretinitis and vasculitis in primates. Methods: Six cynomolgus monkeys received a single subcutaneous immunization with 100 µg of human S antigen with complete Freund’s adjuvant. Results: All the animals had a bilateral long-term disease occurring usually in 1 eye approximately 4 weeks after immunization, the second eye being involved 1–5 weeks later. A cyclic course of the disease could be demonstrated by repeated fundus fluorescein angiograms. The initial and principal manifestation consisted in retinal vascular sheathing affecting veins and venules. The more severe forms showed areas of posterior uveoretinitis, dense vitritis and anterior uveitis. Conclusion: A single systemic injection of pure human retinal S antigen could induce a chronic and recurrent ocular disease similar to human retinal vasculitis.
Secondary Iliac-Enteric Fistula to the Sigmoid Colon Complicated with Entero-Grafto-Cutaneous Fistula
Authors: Bognár Gábor , Sugár István , Sipos Péter , Ledniczky György , Laczkó Ágnes , Ondrejka Pál
Published: April 2008

We report the case of a 67-year-old man who was admitted to our department with acute rectal bleeding. The patient had had previous aortoiliac surgery with the utilization of an aortobifemoral vascular prosthesis. Diagnosis of aortoenteric fistula was made between the distal suture line of the right graft leg and the sigmoid colon. This fistula had an enterocutaneous component. After exploratory laparotomy, primary resection of the sigmoid colon, exstirpation of the enterocutaneous fistula, excision of the right graft leg and extraanatomical crossover bypass were successfully performed. This study reports a rare type of aorto/ilac-enteric fistula to the left colon complicated with an entero-grafto-cutaneous component and describes an unusual and successful surgical treatment method.
Val158Met Polymorphism in the Catechol-O-Methyltransferase (COMT) Gene Is Not Associated with Tardive Dyskinesia in Schizophrenia
Authors: Kang Seung-Gul , Choi Jung-Eun , Park Young-Min , Lee Heon-Jeong , Han Changsu , Kim Yong-Ku , Kim Seung-Hyun , Lee Min-Soo , Joe Sook-Haeng , Jung In-Kwa , Kim Leen
Published: April 2008

Objective: This study investigated whether the catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene V158M single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) influences susceptibility to tardive dyskinesia (TD). Methods: We examined 209 Korean schizophrenic patients using the Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS), with genotyping performed for the COMT gene V158M SNP. Results: The logistic regression analysis showed that old age [p = 0.032, OR = 1.40 (OR corresponds to 10-year), 95% CI = 1.03–1.90] was a risk factor for TD, but there was no significant association between the COMT genotype and TD. The heterozygotes (MV genotype) of the COMT gene polymorphism tended to develop TD less than homozygotes (MM and VV); however, the risk did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.050, OR = 1.81, 95% CI = 1.00–3.29). Conclusions: These results suggest that the V158M SNP of the COMT gene is not associated with TD in schizophrenia. However, there is a tendency that the heterozygous genotype of the COMT gene polymorphism has a protective effect against TD. Further investigations are warranted to evaluate a molecular heterosis of this polymorphism in development of TD in a large sample of subjects.
Bone Mineral Density in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients: Association with Wasting, Cardiovascular Disease and Mortality
Authors: Matsubara Keisuke , Suliman Mohamed E. , Qureshi Abdul Rashid , Axelsson Jonas , Martola Leena , Heimbürger Olof , Barany Peter , Stenvinkel Peter , Lindholm Bengt
Published: April 2008

Background: Bone and mineral disorders may contribute to extraosseous ossifications and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. We have investigated the relationship between bone mineral density (BMD) and inflammation, wasting, CVD and mortality in ESRD patients. Methods: BMD (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) and biochemical, nutritional and inflammatory markers were assessed in 277 incident ESRD patients (GFR 7.1 ± 0.2 ml/min) who were then followed prospectively for a mean of 27 (range 1–60) months. Carotid plaques were determined in 103 patients. Results: Patients with carotid plaques, clinical manifestation of CVD and wasting (assessed by subjective global assessment) had significantly lower BMD than their counterparts. Low BMD was associated with high all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Even after adjustment for several confounders and risk factors, all-cause (HR = 2.1, CI: 1.1–3.9, p = 0.02) and cardiovascular (HR = 2.8, CI: 1.2–6.3, p = 0.02) mortality remained significantly associated with low BMD. Conclusions: Low BMD is associated with wasting and CVD, and is an independent predictor of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in ESRD patients.
Cytokine Dysregulation in Chronic Kidney Disease: How Can We Treat It?
Authors: Carrero Juan Jesus , Yilmaz Mahmut Ilker , Lindholm Bengt , Stenvinkel Peter
Published: April 2008

As the kidney is the major site for elimination of many cytokines, the delicate equilibrium of pro-inflammatory cytokines and their inhibitors is clearly dysregulated in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The consequences of the altered immune response in uremia lead to a state of persistent inflammation which is highly prevalent among CKD patients and is linked to complications such as the development of protein-energy wasting and atherosclerotic vascular disease. The present review aims at reviewing this complex orchestration of uremic cytokines beyond the well-studied interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-α. Finally, we update our current understanding on anti-inflammatory treatment strategies in CKD patients, including nutritional and lifestyle measurements, pharmacological intervention and specific anticytokine strategies targeting the dialytic procedure.
Relationship between Smiling and Laughter in Humans (Homo sapiens): Testing the Power Asymmetry Hypothesis
Authors: Mehu Marc , Dunbar Robin I.M.
Published: April 2008

The power asymmetry hypothesis claims that individuals should have distinct signals of appeasement/affiliation and play when status difference is high, whereas these signals should overlap in egalitarian interactions. Naturalistic observations were conducted on humans interacting in groups that differed in terms of age composition (and presumably social status). Three affiliative behaviours were recorded by focal sampling: spontaneous smiles, deliberate smiles and laughter. Interestingly, young men showed significantly higher proportions of deliberate smiles in comparison to laughter when interacting with people of a different age class than when interacting in same-age groups. The pattern of affiliative behaviours in women remained unaffected by the age composition of groups. This partly supports the power asymmetry hypothesis and suggests that in men, deliberate smiles could play a role in the regulation of hierarchical relationships.
A Comprehensive Review of Radiosurgery for Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformations: Outcomes, Predictive Factors, and Grading Scales
Authors: Starke Robert M. , Komotar Ricardo J. , Hwang Brian Y. , Fischer Laura E. , Otten Marc L. , Merkow Maxwell B. , Garrett Matthew C. , Isaacson Steven R. , Connolly Jr. E. Sander
Published: April 2008

The management of cerebral arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) continues to present a challenge to neurosurgeons. The natural history of this condition, as well as the morbidity and mortality of therapeutic interventions, remains incompletely elucidated. Predictive factors and grading scales in AVM management allow risk-benefit analysis of treatment options and comparison of outcomes. Stereotactic radiosurgery is one of the established treatment modalities for AVMs and is generally used to treat lesions that are high risk for surgical resection. Radiosurgery aims to obliterate AVMs and thus prevent hemorrhage or seizure without any new or worsening of existing symptoms. Lesion characteristics and postsurgical complications differ markedly in patientstreated by radiosurgery versus microsurgery. Radiosurgery-based grading systems account for factors that have been associated with various aspects of radiosurgical outcomes including obliteration, hemorrhage, and postoperative complications, particularly those induced by radiation. The purpose of this paper is to describe the most current predictive factors and grading systems for radiosurgical treatment of cerebral AVMs.
CD44 Expressed on Both Bone Marrow–Derived and Non–Bone Marrow–Derived Cells Promotes Atherogenesis in ApoE-Deficient Mice
Authors: Zhao Liang , Lee Eric , Zukas Alicia M. , Middleton Melissa K. , Kinder Michelle , Acharya Pinak S. , Hall Jason A. , Rader Daniel J. , Puré Ellen
Published: April 2008

Objective—

The purpose of this study was to distinguish the contributions of CD44 expressed on bone marrow–derived and non–bone marrow–derived cells to atherosclerosis.

Methods and Results—

Using bone marrow chimeras, we compared the contributions of CD44 expressed on bone marrow–derived cells versus non–bone marrow–derived cells to the vascular inflammation underlying atherosclerosis. We show that CD44 in both bone marrow–derived and non–bone marrow–derived compartments promotes atherosclerosis in apoE
−/−
mice and mediates macrophage and T cell recruitment to lesions in vivo. We also demonstrate that CD44 on endothelial cells (ECs) as well as on macrophages and T cells enhances leukocyte-endothelial cell adhesion and transendothelial migration in vitro. Furthermore, CD44 on vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) regulates their hyaluronan (HA)-dependent migration. Interestingly, in mice lacking CD44 in both compartments, where we observed the least inflammation, we also observed enhanced fibrous cap formation.

Conclusions—

CD44 expressed on bone marrow–derived and non–bone marrow–derived cells both promote atherosclerosis in apoE-deficient mice. Furthermore, CD44 plays a pivotal role in determining the balance between inflammation and fibrosis in atherosclerotic lesions which can impact clinical outcome in humans.
SIRT1, a Longevity Gene, Downregulates Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Expression in Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Miyazaki Ryohei , Ichiki Toshihiro , Hashimoto Toru , Inanaga Keita , Imayama Ikuyo , Sadoshima Junichi , Sunagawa Kenji
Published: April 2008

Objective—Resveratrol (3,5,4′-trihydroxystilbene), a polyphenol found in red wine, is known to activate sirtuin1 (SIRT1), a longevity gene. Previous studies have demonstrated that resveratrol extends the life span of diverse species through activation of SIRT1. It was also reported that inhibition of angiotensin II function by angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1R) antagonist prolonged rat life span. We, therefore, hypothesized that resveratrol may inhibit the renin-angiontein system and examined whether resveratrol affects AT1R expression in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

Methods and Results—Northern and Western blot analysis revealed that resveratrol significantly decreased the expression of AT1R at mRNA and protein levels in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Overexpression of SIRT1 reduced AT1R expression whereas nicotinamide, an inhibitor of SIRT1, increased AT1R expression and reversed the resveratrol-induced AT1R downregulation. AT1R gene promoter activity was decreased by resveratrol, but resveratrol did not affect the AT1R mRNA stability. Deletion analysis showed that the most proximal region of AT1R gene promoter containing Sp1 site is responsible for downregulation. Administration of resveratrol suppressed AT1R expression in the mouse aorta and blunted angiotensin II–induced hypertension.

Conclusion—Resveratrol suppressed AT1R expression through SIRT1 activation both in vivo and in vitro. The inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system may contribute, at least in part, to the resveratrol-induced longevity and antiatherogenic effect of resveratrol.
A Cyclin D2–Rb Pathway Regulates Cardiac Myocyte Size and RNA Polymerase III After Biomechanical Stress in Adult Myocardium
Authors: Angelis Ekaterini , Garcia Alejandro , Chan Shing S. , Schenke-Layland Katja , Ren Shuxen , Goodfellow Sarah J. , Jordan Maria C. , Roos Kenneth P. , White Robert J. , MacLellan W. Robb
Published: April 2008

Normally, cell cycle progression is tightly coupled to the accumulation of cell mass; however, the mechanisms whereby proliferation and cell growth are linked are poorly understood. We have identified cyclin (Cyc)D2, a G
1
cyclin implicated in mediating S phase entry, as a potential regulator of hypertrophic growth in adult post mitotic myocardium. To examine the role of CycD2 and its downstream targets, we subjected CycD2-null mice to mechanical stress. Hypertrophic growth in response to transverse aortic constriction was attenuated in CycD2-null compared with wild-type mice. Blocking the increase in CycD2 in response to hypertrophic agonists prevented phosphorylation of CycD2-target Rb (retinoblastoma gene product) in vitro, and mice deficient for Rb had potentiated hypertrophic growth. Hypertrophic growth requires new protein synthesis and transcription of tRNA genes by RNA polymerase (pol) III, which increases with hypertrophic signals. This load-induced increase in RNA pol III activity is augmented in Rb-deficient hearts. Rb binds and represses Brf-1 and TATA box binding protein (TBP), subunits of RNA pol III–specific transcription factor B, in adult myocardium under basal conditions. However, this association is disrupted in response to transverse aortic constriction. RNA pol III activity is unchanged in CycD2
−/−
myocardium after transverse aortic constriction, and there is no dissociation of TBP from Rb. These investigations identify an essential role for the CycD2-Rb pathway as a governor of cardiac myocyte enlargement in response to biomechanical stress and, more fundamentally, as a regulator of the load-induced activation of RNA pol III.
Ste20-Related Kinase SLK Phosphorylates Ser188 of RhoA to Induce Vasodilation in Response to Angiotensin II Type 2 Receptor Activation
Authors: Guilluy Christophe , Rolli-Derkinderen Malvyne , Loufrani Laurent , Bourgé Anne , Henrion Daniel , Sabourin Luc , Loirand Gervaise , Pacaud Pierre
Published: April 2008

The small G protein Rho signaling pathways are recognized as major regulators of cardiovascular functions, and activation of Rho proteins appears to be a common component for the pathogenesis of hypertension and vascular proliferative disorders. Recent evidence suggests that modulation of Rho protein signaling by phosphorylation of Rho proteins provides an additional simple mechanism for coordinating Rho protein functions. Phosphorylation of RhoA by cAMP- or cGMP-activated kinase on Ser188 induces cytosolic sequestration of RhoA through increased interaction with guanine dissociation inhibitor, thereby resulting in inhibition of RhoA-dependent functions. Here we show that stimulation of angiotensin II (Ang II) type 2 receptor (AT
2
R) in vascular smooth muscle cells induces Ser188 phosphorylation of RhoA independently of cAMP- or cGMP-activated kinase. We identify the Ser/Thr kinase Ste20-related kinase SLK as a new kinase phosphorylating RhoA on Ser188. Activation of the signaling cascade involving Src homology 2 domain–containing protein-tyrosine phosphatase 1, casein kinase II and SLK is responsible for RhoA phosphorylation and inhibition of RhoA-mediated arterial contraction induced by AT
2
R activation. These results thus identify the molecular mechanism linking AT
2
R to RhoA inhibition and vasodilation.
ADAM10 Regulates Endothelial Permeability and T-Cell Transmigration by Proteolysis of Vascular Endothelial Cadherin
Authors: Schulz Beate , Pruessmeyer Jessica , Maretzky Thorsten , Ludwig Andreas , Blobel Carl P. , Saftig Paul , Reiss Karina
Published: April 2008

Vascular endothelial (VE)-cadherin is the major adhesion molecule of endothelial adherens junctions. It plays an essential role in controlling endothelial permeability, vascular integrity, leukocyte transmigration, and angiogenesis. Elevated levels of soluble VE-cadherin are associated with diseases like coronary atherosclerosis. Previous data showed that the extracellular domain of VE-cadherin is released by an unknown metalloprotease activity during apoptosis. In this study, we used gain-of-function analyses, inhibitor studies, and RNA interference experiments to analyze the proteolytic release of VE-cadherin in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We found that VE-cadherin is specifically cleaved by the disintegrin and metalloprotease ADAM10 in its ectodomain, releasing a soluble fragment and generating a carboxyl-terminal membrane-bound stub, which is a substrate for a subsequent γ-secretase cleavage. This ADAM10-mediated proteolysis could be induced by Ca
2+
influx and staurosporine treatment, indicating that ADAM10-mediated VE-cadherin cleavage contributes to the dissolution of adherens junctions during endothelial cell activation and apoptosis, respectively. In contrast, protein kinase C activation or inhibition did not modulate VE-cadherin processing. Increased ADAM10 expression was functionally associated with an increase in endothelial permeability. Remarkably, our data indicate that ADAM10 activity also contributes to the thrombin-induced decrease of endothelial cell–cell adhesion. Moreover, knockdown of ADAM10 in HUVECs as well as in T cells by small interfering RNA impaired T-cell transmigration. Taken together, our data identify ADAM10 as a novel regulator of vascular permeability and demonstrate a hitherto unknown function of ADAM10 in the regulation of VE-cadherin–dependent endothelial cell functions and leukocyte transendothelial migration.
No Patriotic Fervor for Pella: Aelius Aristides and the Presentation of the Macedonians in the Second Sophistic
Authors: Ruth Asirvatham Sulochana
Published: April 2008

This paper examines four speeches by Aelius Aristides that contrast the image of Macedonian history negatively with Greek past and Roman present. Aristides' literary milieu of the 'Second Sophistic' is characterized by Greek self-consciousness and nostalgia in the Roman Empire. While writers like Plutarch and Arrian mythologize the figure of Alexander as a second Achilles and a philosopher-of-war as a means of offering subtle proof of 'Hellenic' primacy over the Romans, Aristides chooses to focus on the more negative aspects of the Macedonian legacy. To the Thebans I and II elaborately update the 'barbaric' image of Philip II found in Demosthenes, making him parallel not only, perhaps, to the Persian enemy of old but also to Rome's contemporary Parthian enemy. The Panathenaic Oration and To Rome, on the other hand, idealize the world of the present, where Athens reigns supreme in culture, Rome in conquest. Aristides' stance suggests that, despite the attractions of the 'Hellenic' Alexander, pride in Greece does not necessarily have to include Macedonian history. What is more important is that writers have some means of Hellenizing Rome, whether by idealizing a 'Greco-Roman' Alexander, or by seeing Rome as the ultimate polis.
Revolutionaries and Revivalists: Pentecostal Eschatology, Politics and the Nicaraguan Revolution
Authors: Smith Calvin
Published: April 2008

In 1979 Nicaragua's Sandinista guerrillas seized power with the help of revolutionary Christians. Yet by virtue of their eschatology and worldview, classical Pentecostals in Nicaragua were less enthusiastic. Premillennialism, otherworldliness and a focus on evangelism generated an apoliticism that was wholly unacceptable to a collectivist, this-worldly regime keen to co-opt the Church to help establish its vision of heaven on earth. Meanwhile, Sandinista antipathy towards Israel, close links with the East Bloc (traditionally associated with biblical Gog and Magog), and the sometimes brutal repression of evangelicals all contributed to a dispensational perception of an apocalyptic, dualistic struggle between good and evil. Thus, eschatology played an important role in shaping the nature of Pentecostal-Sandinista relations.
“The New World of Realities in Which We Live”: How Speaking in Tongues Empowered Early Pentecostals
Authors: McGee Gary
Published: April 2008

Histories of Pentecostalism have recounted how early adherents anticipated preaching in their newfound languages until disappointing reports from missionaries trickled home. Yet, in the years from 1901 to 1908, many Pentecostals recognized the value of glossolalic utterances to include languages not only for preaching but also as a means of prayer, with the latter especially denoting their willingness to step beyond the border of rational spirituality into the realm of Christian mysticism. At the same time, they addressed the connection of Spirit baptism to love in the Spirit-filled life and struggled with questions that arose about the meaning of the gift of interpretation. This essay proposes that the early literature reveals a consistently held role for adoration and prayerful intercession that enabled the faithful to withstand the impact of other changes in meaning.
Tornado Warnings, Lead Times, and Tornado Casualties: An Empirical Investigation
Authors: Simmons Kevin M. , Sutter Daniel
Published: April 2008

Conventional wisdom holds that improved tornado warnings will reduce tornado casualties, because longer lead times on warnings provide extra opportunities to alert residents who can then take precautions. The relationship between warnings and casualties is examined using a dataset of tornadoes in the contiguous United States between 1986 and 2002. Two questions are examined: Does a warning issued on a tornado reduce the resulting number of fatalities and injuries? Do longer lead times reduce casualties? It is found that warnings have had a significant and consistent effect on tornado injuries, with a reduction of over 40% at some lead time intervals. The results for fatalities are mixed. An increase in lead time up to about 15 min reduces fatalities, while lead times longer than 15 min increase fatalities compared with no warning. The fatality results beyond 15 min, however, depend on five killer tornadoes and consequently are not robust.
A Remote Sensing Survey of the Role of Landform on the Organization of Orographic Precipitation in Central and Southern Mexico
Authors: Giovannettone Jason P. , Barros Ana P.
Published: April 2008

Data from NASA’s TRMM satellite and NOAA’s GOES satellites were used to survey the orographic organization of cloud precipitation in central and southern Mexico during the monsoon with two main objectives: 1) to investigate large-scale forcing versus local landform controls, and 2) to compare the results with previous work in the Himalayas. At large scales, the modes of spatial variability of cloudiness were estimated using the empirical orthogonal function (EOF) analysis of GOES brightness temperatures. Terrain modulation of synoptic-scale high-frequency variability (3–5- and 6–9-day cycles normally associated with the propagation of easterly waves) was found to cause higher dispersion in the EOF spectrum, with the first mode explaining less than 30% of the spatial variability in central and southern Mexico as opposed to 50% and higher in the Himalayas. A detailed analysis of the first three EOFs for 1999, an average La Niña year with above average rainfall, and for 2001, a weak La Niña year with below average rainfall, shows that landform (mountain peaks and land–ocean contrast) and large-scale circulation (moisture convergence) alternate as the key controls of regional hydrometeorology in dry and wet years, or as active and break (midsummer drought) phases of the monsoon, respectively. The diurnal cycle is the dominant time scale of variability in 2001, as it is during the midsummer drought in all years. Strong variability at time scales beyond two weeks is only present during the active phases of the monsoon. At the river basin scale, the data show increased cloudiness over the mountain ranges during the afternoon, which moves over the low-lying regions at the foot of the major orographic barriers [the Sierra Madre Occidental (SMO)/Sierra Madre del Sur (SMS) and Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt (TMVB)], specifically the Balsas and the Rio de Santiago basins at nighttime and in the early morning. At the ridge–valley scale (∼100–200 km), robust day–night (ridge–valley) asymmetries suggest strong local controls on cloud and precipitation, with convective activity along the coastal region of the SMO and topographically forced convection at the foothills of headwater ridges in the Altiplano and the SMS. These day–night spatial shifts in cloudiness and precipitation are similar to those found in the Himalayas at the same spatial scales.
Dipylidium Caninum Mimicking Recurrent Enterobius Vermicularis (Pinworm) Infection
Authors: Samkari Ayman , Kiska Deanna L. , Riddell Scott W. , Wilson Kathy , Weiner Leonard B. , Domachowske Joseph B.
Published: April 2008

Pinworm infection is a very common diagnosis in young children that is not always confirmed through laboratory evaluation before empiric therapy is prescribed. This article describes a toddler who was treated several times for pinworms because small white worms were seen in her perianal area. Laboratory analysis of parasite material found in her diaper later confirmed a diagnosis of dipylidiasis. Because the signs of dipylidiasis and pinworm infection overlap and the treatments for these parasitic infections are different, the laboratory should clinically confirm suspected persistent or recurrent pinworms.
Taking Stock of Violence in U.K. Schools
Authors: Cowie Helen , Hutson Nicola , Jennifer Dawn , Myers Carrie Anne
Published: April 2008

This article documents the important issues of school violence and bullying in the United Kingdom. The authors provide examples of effective interventions for preventing violence and describe some methods, grounded in a restorative and emotional intelligence framework, that have been successfully adopted in U.K. schools. The authors conclude that if violence is to be addressed, a whole school approach embedded in the wider community is required.
Academic and Racial Segregation in Charter Schools
Authors: Garcia David R.
Published: April 2008

This article focuses on how parental school choices affect the degree of racial and academic segregation in charter schools. The research design allows for a direct comparison of the racial and academic conditions of the district schools students exited to the charter schools they entered. Parents choose to leave more racially integrated district schools to attend more racially segregated charter schools. Simultaneously, parents enroll their students into charter schools with at least the same degree of academic integration as the district schools that students exited. The academic and racial segregation results are then used to test the extent to which students congregate into specialized charter schools according to hypothesized patterns. The findings call into question the assertion of charter school advocates that segregated conditions in charter schools are the result of students self-selecting into specialized charter schools.
The Relationship Between a Counselor's Education and Experience and the Time Spent on Tasks
Authors: Lustig Dan C. , Strauser David R.
Published: April 2008

The purpose of the current study was to examine the relationship between perceived percentage of time spent on rehabilitation counseling responsibilities and the possession of an educational degree, certification as a rehabilitation counselor, and years worked for a state or federal vocational rehabilitation agency. A national study was conducted of 483 vocational rehabilitation counselors in state and federal vocational rehabilitation agencies. The results provide evidence that there is little difference in the perceived percentage of time spent on work activities with respect to degree type, certification as a rehabilitation counselor, or years worked for a state or federal agency. Implications for rehabilitation counselors working for a state or federal agency are discussed.
Retheorizing the Nature of Informal Employment
Authors: Williams Colin C. , Round John
Published: April 2008

This article evaluates critically the contrasting theories of informal employment that variously read this sector as a leftover of pre-capitalism, a byproduct of a new emergent form of capitalism, a complement to formal employment or an alternative to the formal economy. Until now, a common tendency has been to either universally privilege one theorization over the others, or to depict each as appropriate in different regions of the world. Reporting on data collected through face-to-face interviews with 600 households in Ukraine, however, the finding is that each theory is valid when analysing particular types of informal employment in this country, and that only by combining them will a finer-grained and more comprehensive understanding of the complex and diverse nature of informal employment be achieved. The article concludes by outlining a way of synthesizing these theorizations in order to develop a more multilayered and nuanced understanding of informal employment.
The Role of Vocational Specificity of Educational Credentials for Labour Market Entry in Estonia and Slovenia
Authors: Kogan Irena , Unt Marge
Published: April 2008

This article compares entry to their first stable employment among young people in Estonia and Slovenia after the fall of Communism, when the two countries opted for two different models with regard to the organization of their educational systems. Results show that in Slovenia with the passage of time after the start of reforms, education—job linkages among young school leavers have become stronger. Those with vocational credentials and tertiary education have been able to secure their first stable employment more quickly than the rest. Ultimate losers of the transformation in Slovenia appear to be school leavers without any vocational training, whose first job entry chances have significantly deteriorated. In Estonia, on the other hand, school leavers, irrespective of their educational qualifications, hardly differ regarding the speed of entry to their first significant employment. Neither those with vocational credentials at the lower-secondary level, nor university graduates have been able to secure their first stable employment more quickly than the least educated. The analyses are conducted on the basis of the Labour Force Survey ad hoc module on school-to-work transitions applying event history techniques.