bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of 17-Allylamino-Demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG) Hydroquinone by NAD(P)H:Quinone Oxidoreductase 1: Role of 17-AAG Hydroquinone in Heat Shock Protein 90 Inhibition
Authors: Guo Wenchang , Reigan Philip , Siegel David , Zirrolli Joseph , Gustafson Daniel , Ross David
Published: November 2005

We have examined the role of NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) in the bioreductive metabolism of 17-allylamino-demethoxygeldanamycin (17-AAG). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of the metabolism of 17-AAG by recombinant human NQO1 revealed the formation of a more polar metabolite 17-AAGH2. The formation of 17-AAGH2 was NQO1 dependent, and its formation could be inhibited by the addition of 5-methoxy-1,2-dimethyl-3-[(4-nitrophenoxy)methyl]indole-4,7-dione (ES936), a mechanism-based (suicide) inhibitor of NQO1. The reduction of 17-AAG to the corresponding hydroquinone 17-AAGH2 was confirmed by tandem liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. 17-AAGH2 was relatively stable and only slowly underwent autooxidation back to 17-AAG over a period of hours. To examine the role of NQO1 in 17-AAG metabolism in cells, we used an isogenic pair of human breast cancer cell lines differing only in NQO1 levels. MDA468 cells lack NQO1 due to a genetic polymorphism, and MDA468/NQ16 cells are a stably transfected clone that express high levels of NQO1 protein. HPLC analysis of 17-AAG metabolism using cell sonicates and intact cells showed that 17-AAGH2 was formed by MDA468/NQ16 cells, and formation of 17-AAGH2 could be inhibited by ES936. No 17-AAGH2 was detected in sonicates or intact MDA468 cells. Following a 4-hour treatment with 17-AAG, the MDA468/NQ16 cells were 12-fold more sensitive to growth inhibition compared with MDA468 cells. More importantly, the increased sensitivity of MDA468/NQ16 cells to 17-AAG could be abolished if the cells were pretreated with ES936. Cellular markers of heat shock protein (Hsp) 90 inhibition, Hsp70 induction, and Raf-1 degradation were measured by immunoblot analysis. Marked Hsp70 induction and Raf-1 degradation was observed in MDA468/NQ16 cells but not in MDA468 cells. Similarly, downstream Raf-1 signaling molecules mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) kinase and ERK also showed decreased levels of phosphorylation in MDA468/NQ16 cells but not in MDA468 cells. The ability of 17-AAG and 17-AAGH2 to inhibit purified yeast and human Hsp90 ATPase activity was examined. Maximal 17-AAG–induced ATPase inhibition was observed in the presence of NQO1 and could be abrogated by ES936, showing that 17-AAGH2 was a more potent Hsp90 inhibitor compared with 17-AAG. Molecular modeling studies also showed that due to increased hydrogen bonding between the hydroquinone and the Hsp90 protein, 17-AAGH2 was bound more tightly to the ATP-binding site in both yeast and human Hsp90 models. In conclusion, these studies have shown that reduction of 17-AAG by NQO1 generates 17-AAGH2, a relatively stable hydroquinone that exhibits superior Hsp90 inhibition.
Focal Adhesion Kinase Promotes the Aggressive Melanoma Phenotype
Authors: Hess Angela R. , Postovit Lynne-Marie , Margaryan Naira V. , Seftor Elisabeth A. , Schneider Galen B. , Seftor Richard E.B. , Nickoloff Brian J. , Hendrix Mary J.C.
Published: November 2005

Malignant melanoma continues to remain a significant health threat, with death often occurring as a result of metastasis. The metastatic phenotype typically is characterized by augmented tumor cell invasion and migration in addition to tumor cell plasticity as shown by vasculogenic mimicry. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms that promote an aggressive phenotype is essential to predicting the likelihood of metastasis at a stage when intervention may be possible. This study focuses on the role of focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a cytoplasmic tyrosine kinase important for many cellular processes, including cell survival, invasion, and migration. We found FAK to be phosphorylated on its key tyrosine residues, Tyr397 and Tyr576, in only aggressive uveal and cutaneous melanoma cells, which correlates with their increased invasion, migration, and vasculogenic mimicry plasticity. Additionally, we confirmed the presence of FAK phosphorylated on Tyr397 and Tyr576 in both cutaneous and uveal melanoma tumors in situ. Examination of a functional role for FAK in aggressive melanoma revealed that disruption of FAK-mediated signal transduction pathways, through the expression of FAK-related nonkinase (FRNK), results in a decrease in melanoma cell invasion, migration, and inhibition of vasculogenic mimicry. Moreover, we found that FRNK expression resulted in a down-regulation of Erk1/2 phosphorylation resulting in a decrease in urokinase activity. Collectively, these data suggest a new mechanism involved in promoting the aggressive melanoma phenotype through FAK-mediated signal transduction pathways, thus providing new insights into possible therapeutic intervention strategies.
The Intrinsic Mitochondrial Membrane Potential of Colonic Carcinoma Cells Is Linked to the Probability of Tumor Progression
Authors: Heerdt Barbara G. , Houston Michele A. , Augenlicht Leonard H.
Published: November 2005

We subcloned cell lines from SW620 cells establishing that, despite the dynamic nature of the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), there are significant and stable differences in the intrinsic Δψm among cells within an in vitro population of human colonic carcinoma cells. Whereas more dramatic differences in Δψm would likely perturb essential mitochondrial functions, the differences in Δψm of the subclones did not affect steady-state reactive oxygen species levels, electron transport activity, or cellular viability and growth rates. However, the differences in intrinsic Δψm had a significant effect on the tumorigenic behavior of the cells. Subcloned cell lines with higher Δψm were more likely to exhibit elevated steady-state levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and matrix metalloproteinase 7, and increased invasive behavior (properties associated with tumor progression), than cells with lower intrinsic Δψm, whereas cells with lower Δψm were more likely to respond to the chemopreventive activities of butyrate, including Δψm dissipation, growth arrest, and apoptosis, than cells with higher Δψm. Therefore, these data establish that the probability for tumor development and progression is linked to stable differences in the intrinsic Δψm of colonic epithelial cells.
Hopping around the Tumor Genome: Transposons for Cancer Gene Discovery
Authors: Collier Lara S. , Largaespada David A.
Published: November 2005

Retroviruses are powerful insertional somatic mutagens that have been used for many landmark discoveries of cancer genes in model organisms. However, their use as a cancer gene discovery tool has been limited to only a few tissues, mainly the hematopoietic system and mammary gland. Recently, the Sleeping Beauty (SB) transposon system was shown to be useful for random somatic cell mutagenesis in mice, allowing the induction or acceleration of tumor formation both in the hematopoietic system and in sarcomas. In these tumors, SB transposons repeatedly “tagged” specific genes, both known and new cancer genes. These results indicate that the SB system has great potential both for generating specific mouse models of human cancer and for cancer gene discovery in a wide variety of tissues.
Singing and Evil in Visual Art
Authors: Brosch Sibylle , Bennett John D.C. , Pirsig Wolfgang
Published: November 2005

Surprisingly, singing and music sometimes are connected with poor or even lethal outcomes. One example is personified in the legend of Orpheus, who through the power of his songs, succeeded in leading the wild Thracians into the Greek religion. This did not save him, however, from being murdered by Thracian women probably because of his paedophilic tendency. The scene has been illustrated since 490 BC on Attic red-figure vases. The Sirens, with the body of a bird and the head of a female and dwelling in the Sicilian Sea, were creatures who attracted sailors by their song and devoured the unhappy wretches who had been unable to resist their seductive singing. This topic has also been depicted on ancient Greek vases as part of the Odyssey. The idea that beautiful singing with an instrument can also be a symbol of sin and a sign of the devil is deeply rooted in Christian thinking. This aspect of music as the power of evil is extensively depicted in Dutch and Flemish genre paintings where singing and playing string instruments were also common symbols of lust and vices, seduction and, therefore, moral decay. Some examples of the power of evil in singing in representative art are presented in this article.
Muscular Patterns and Activation Levels of Auxiliary Breathing Muscles and Thorax Movement in Classical Singing
Authors: Pettersen Viggo
Published: November 2005

The aim of this paper is to present an overview of the findings in seven studies exploring muscular patterns and muscle activation levels in selected muscles by classical singers. In addition, the relationship of these muscles to thorax (TX) movement was investigated. Loading levels and respiratory phasing of upper trapezius (TR), sternocleidomastoideus (STM) and the scalenes (SC) were investigated in vocalization tasks with variation in vocal loudness and pitch. Further, muscle activity in the posterior neck (PN) was investigated in inhalation and phonation and, finally, TR, intercostal (INT), lateral abdominal (OBL) and anterior abdominal (RC) muscle loading in student and professional singers was examined. Muscle activity was recorded by use of an ambulatory four-channel monitoring system (Physiometer PHY 400, Premed, Norway). TX movement was traced with two strain gauge sensors (RES-117) placed around the upper TX and lower TX. A phasing of upper TR activity to INT and OBL activity was discovered, all muscles supporting the expiration phase. During phonation, TR contributes in the compression of the upper TX, thus serving as an accessory muscle of expiration. TR activity is reduced with short breathing cycles and is mostly inactive in simplified speaking tasks. During phonation, professional opera singers activate the expiratory-phased TR, INT, OBL and RC muscles to higher levels than student singers do. STM and SC show correlated activity patterns during inhalation and phonation by classical singers. During demanding singing, expiratory-phased STM and SC activity peaks produce a counterforce to the compression of upper TX at high pitches. As breathing demands are lowered, STM and SC activity are reduced and attain inspiratory phasing. Substantial muscle activity is observed in PN during inhalation and phonation. EMG biofeedback performed on TR and STM have a secondary effect of lowering EMG activity in PN.
Resonance Strategies Revealed in Recorded Tenor High Notes
Authors: Schutte Harm K. , Miller Donald G. , Duijnstee Mark
Published: November 2005

With careers that depend to a large extent on the amplitude and sonorous beauty of their voices, opera singers must pay special attention to high notes, where the wide spacing of the harmonics of the voice source intensifies the critical importance of the tuning of the resonances of the vocal tract. This study uses spectrum analysis to examine a large number of recordings of a particularly challenging high note for tenors, the final sustained B4-flat of the aria ‘Celeste Aida’ from Verdi’s opera Aida. The resonance strategy most frequently found uses a markedly displaced second formant to create a dominant resonance at the frequency of the third harmonic, about 1,400 Hz. Other strategies and combinations of strategies are examined as well. Arguments concerning the validity of drawing conclusions from the acoustic signals available in commercial recordings are considered, and it is concluded that such recordings can contain valuable information on resonance strategies for those who aspire to sing similar high notes.
Rate of Recalls in Congenital Hypothyroidism Based upon a Regional Survey in Isfahan, Iran, Using Serum T4 and TSH Analyses: Comparison of Two Different Recall Methods
Authors: Amini Massoud , Hashemipour Mahin , Iranpour Ramin , Hovsepian Silva , Haghighi Sassan , Khatibi Khosro
Published: November 2005

Aims: To evaluate and compare the recall rate in congenital hypothyroidism screening project in Isfahan, first using an approach involving measures of both TSH and T4 and then using TSH alone. Methods: From June 2002 to January 2005, serum TSH and T4 level of referred neonates were measured at 3rd to 7th day of birth through venous sampling. If neonates’ serum TSH was >20 mIU/l or T4 was <6.5 µg/dl by the first protocol, or TSH was >20 mIU/l by the second protocol, they were recalled. TSH and T4 were measured using an immunoradiometric assay and radioimmunoassay, respectively. Neonates with TSH > 10 and T4 < 6.5 on their second measurement were considered as congenitally hypothyroid. Results: Serum T4 and TSH of 29,425 neonates by first and 57,235 neonates by second recall approach were measured. Recall rate was higher in the first protocol (2.2% vs. 0.6%, p < 0.05). Most of the recalled neonates in the first protocol were recalled for low T4 level (p < 0.05). The prevalence of CH was 1 in 350 livebirths. Conclusion: Although the recall rate was in the acceptable range by either approach, the TSH alone protocol seems to be a more sensitive and practical approach with the least recall burden and considering the high prevalence of CH in our region merit adaptation of widespread screening for CH using TSH measurements from heel stab blood spotted on filter paper.
Cardiac Troponin Elevation, Cardiovascular Morbidity, and Outcome After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Naidech Andrew M. , Kreiter Kurt T. , Janjua Nazli , Ostapkovich Noeleen D. , Parra Augusto , Commichau Christopher , Fitzsimmons Brian-Fred M. , Connolly E. Sander , Mayer Stephan A.
Published: November 2005

Background—

Cardiac troponin I (cTI) release occurs frequently after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and has been associated with a neurogenic form of myocardial injury. The prognostic significance and clinical impact of these elevations remain poorly defined.

Methods and Results—

We studied 253 SAH patients who underwent serial cTI measurements for clinical or ECG signs of potential cardiac injury. These patients were drawn from an inception cohort of 441 subjects enrolled in the Columbia University SAH Outcomes Project between November 1998 and August 2002. Peak cTI levels were divided into quartiles or classified as undetectable. Adverse in-hospital events were prospectively recorded, and outcome at 3 months was assessed with the modified Rankin Scale. Admission predictors of cTI elevation included poor clinical grade, intraventricular hemorrhage, loss of consciousness at ictus, global cerebral edema, and a composite score of physiological derangement (all
P
≤0.01). Peak cTI level was associated with an increased risk of echocardiographic left ventricular dysfunction (odds ratio [OR], 1.3 per quintile; 95% CI, 1.0 to 1.7;
P
=0.03), pulmonary edema (OR, 2.1 per quintile; 95% CI, 1.6 to 2.7;
P
<0.001), hypotension requiring pressors (OR, 1.9 per quintile; 95% CI, 1.5 to 2.3;
P
<0.001), and delayed cerebral ischemia from vasospasm (OR, 1.3 per quintile; 95% CI, 1.07 to 1.7;
P
=0.01). Peak cTI levels were predictive of death or severe disability at discharge after controlling for age, clinical grade, and aneurysm size (adjusted OR, 1.4 per quintile; 95% CI, 1.1 to 1.9;
P
=0.02), but this association was no longer significant at 3 months.

Conclusions—

cTI elevation after SAH is associated with an increased risk of cardiopulmonary complications, delayed cerebral ischemia, and death or poor functional outcome at discharge.
Prevention of Fatal Arrhythmias in High-Risk Subjects by Fish Oil n-3 Fatty Acid Intake
Authors: Leaf Alexander , Albert Christine M. , Josephson Mark , Steinhaus David , Kluger Jeffrey , Kang Jing X. , Cox Benjamin , Zhang Hui , Schoenfeld David
Published: November 2005

Background—

The long-chain n-3 fatty acids in fish have been demonstrated to have antiarrhythmic properties in experimental models and to prevent sudden cardiac death in a randomized trial of post–myocardial infarction patients. Therefore, we hypothesized that these n-3 fatty acids might prevent potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias in high-risk patients.

Methods and Results—

Four hundred two patients with implanted cardioverter/defibrillators (ICDs) were randomly assigned to double-blind treatment with either a fish oil or an olive oil daily supplement for 12 months. The primary end point, time to first ICD event for ventricular tachycardia or fibrillation (VT or VF) confirmed by stored electrograms or death from any cause, was analyzed by intention to treat. Secondary analyses were performed for “probable” ventricular arrhythmias, “on-treatment” analyses for all subjects who had taken any of their oil supplements, and “on-treatment” analyses only of those subjects who were on treatment for at least 11 months. Compliance with double-blind treatment was similar in the 2 groups; however, the noncompliance rate was high (35% of all enrollees). In the primary analysis, assignment to treatment with the fish oil supplement showed a trend toward a prolonged time to the first ICD event (VT or VF) or of death from any cause (risk reduction of 28%;
P
=0.057). When therapies for probable episodes of VT or VF were included, the risk reduction became significant at 31%;
P
=0.033. For those who stayed on protocol for at least 11 months, the antiarrhythmic benefit of fish oil was improved for those with confirmed events (risk reduction of 38%;
P
=0.034).

Conclusions—

Although significance was not achieved for the primary end point, this study provides evidence that for individuals at high risk of fatal ventricular arrhythmias, regular daily ingestion of fish oil fatty acids may significantly reduce potentially fatal ventricular arrhythmias.
Humanitarian Use Devices/Humanitarian Device Exemptions in Cardiovascular Medicine
Authors: Kaplan Aaron V. , Harvey Elisa D. , Kuntz Richard E. , Shiran Hadas , Robb John F. , Fitzgerald Peter
Published: November 2005

The Second Dartmouth Device Development Symposium held in October 2004 brought together leaders from the medical device community, including clinical investigators, senior representatives from the US Food and Drug Administration, large and small device manufacturers, and representatives from the financial community to examine difficult issues confronting device development. The role of the Humanitarian Use Device/Humanitarian Device Exemption (HUD/HDE) pathway in the development of new cardiovascular devices was discussed in this forum. The HUD/HDE pathway was created by Congress to facilitate the availability of medical devices for “orphan” indications, ie, those affecting <4000 individuals within the United States each year. The HUD/HDE pathway streamlines the approval process and permits less well-characterized devices to enter the market. HDE approval focuses primarily on issues of safety and scientific soundness and does not require demonstration of efficacy. In the 7 years since the first device was approved in 1997, a total of 35 HDEs have been granted (23 devices, 6 diagnostic tests). As the costs to gain regulatory approval for commonly used devices increase, companies often seek alternative ways to gain market access, including the HUD/HDE pathway. For a given device, there may be multiple legitimate and distinct indications, including indications that meet the HUD criteria. Companies must choose how and when to pursue each of these indications. The consensus of symposium participants was for the HUD/HDE pathway to be reserved for true orphan indications and not be viewed strategically as part of the clinical development plan to access a large market.
Rechenschaftsbericht zur Editio altera der Handausgabe der Septuaginta von Alfred Rahlfs
Authors: Hanhart Robert
Published: November 2005

In agreement with the German Bible Society in Stuttgart the Septuagint-Committee of the Göttingen Academy of Humanities and Sciences decided to entrust the author, Prof. Hanhart, with the responsibility for a revision that would leave the text established by Alfred Rahlfs largely untouched and would restrict revisionary activity to the most inevitable changes.
Israelite literacy and inscriptions: a response to Richard Hess
Authors: Young Ian
Published: November 2005

A recent article by Richard Hess is framed as if it is a response to my earlier article on Israelite literacy. Hess argues that epigraphic evidence must be given first place when discussing Israelite literacy. However, this evidence on its own is unable to tell us anything about the extent of literacy. Instead, a clear picture emerges from biblical and non-biblical evidence that ancient Israelite literacy was generally confined to priests, scribes and government officials.
From empty speech to full speech? Reconceptualizing spirituality in organizations based on a psychoanalytically-grounded understanding of the self
Authors: Driver Michaela
Published: November 2005

Based on a psychoanalytic perspective, the article develops a new theoretical framework with which to examine organizational spirituality. Proponents of spirituality claim that it leads to the experience of an authentic self at work, one that is connected to others and a higher order, fully integrated, balanced, complete and ultimately fulfilled. This article suggests that these current definitions rest on conceptualizations of the self that capture little more than the imaginary function of the ego and the empty speech in which it engages. The article reconstructs core dimensions of spirituality in organizations as full speech, that is, as a discourse in which true subjectivity can emerge.
Evaluating the SAFT-VR and the Sanchez–Lacombe EOS for Modeling the Solubility of Blowing Agents in Polyols
Authors: Challa Venkata V. , Visco Donald P.
Published: November 2005

The statistical associating fluid theory with variable range (SAFT-VR) is a robust equation of state (EOS) with six parameters that describe the thermodynamics of complex systems. Earlier works with this EOS have already predicted the phase co-existence properties of various refrigerants and higher order alkane series compounds, along with their mixtures. In this work, the SAFT-VR EOS has been used to correlate the P–V–T properties of three polyols, namely Pluracol 355, Pluracol 975, and Terol 352. The solubility of nine, zero ozone-depleting blowing agents in these three polyols has been correlated wherever the experimental data are available, and the solubility curves have been produced. The solubility results obtain from SAFT-VR EOS have been compared to a lattice theory based EOS known as Sanchez–Lacombe (SL). In addition, the solubility results of some blowing agents are predicted using the SAFT-VR EOS and the SL EOS, in the above-mentioned polyols wherever there is no experimental data. In general, the SL EOS predicts the solubility of the blowing agents in the polyols more accurately than the SAFT-VR EOS.
Adjustment Patterns in Incarcerated Women
Authors: Thompson Caitlin , Loper Ann B.
Published: November 2005

This study investigated how adjustment patterns in incarcerated women are related to length of sentence. Participants included 692 female inmates who were divided into groups based on prison sentence length: long-term (10+ years), medium-term (2-10 years), and short-term (less than 2 years). Adjustment measures included the Brief Symptom Inventory and the Prison Adjustment Questionnaire. Institutional records provided information on behavioral misconduct. Results found that long- and medium-term inmates reported higher feelings of conflict and committed significantly more nonviolent and institutional offenses than short-term inmates. Results indicated no significant relationship between sentence length and emotional adjustment. These results suggest that long- and medium-term female inmates exhibit more difficulty with conflict and institutional misconduct than short-term inmates, thereby needing more specialized interventions.
Paul's Use and Interpretation of a Justification Tradition in Galatians 2.15-21
Authors: de Boer Martinus C.
Published: November 2005

In Gal. 2.15-21, which is probably Paul's first attempt to articulate a theology of justification (dikaiou=sqai, dikaiosu&nh), he takes as his point of departure a Jewish-Christian justification tradition that he cites in v. 16a (see pdf for characters). This tradition (or formula) represents common theological ground between him, Cephas, and the new preachers in Galatia. In the remainder of v. 16 Paul adopts without change and for the sake of argument the basic referential meanings of three key terms found in the cited tradition, namely, the verb dikaiou=sqai and the phrases (see pdf for characters) and (see pdf for characters). His sole concern in v. 16 is to 'dissociate' justification, understood by the formula to be a future and a forensic event, from the former and to 'associate' it exclusively with the latter. This radical theological move sets the stage in the closing verses of the passage (vv. 19-21) for a new, not yet fully articulated apocalyptic understanding of justification as God's rectifying power in the present.
The Birth of the 'Kodak Moment': Institutional Entrepreneurship and the Adoption of New Technologies
Authors: Munir Kamal A. , Phillips Nelson
Published: November 2005

In this paper, we adopt a discourse analytic methodology to explore the role of institutional entrepreneurs in the process of institutional change that coincides with the adoption of a radically new technology. More specifically, we examine how Kodak managed to transform photography from a highly specialized activity to one that became an integral part of everyday life. Based on this case, we develop an initial typology of the strategies available to institutional entrepreneurs who wish to affect the processes of social construction that lead to change in institutional fields. The use of discourse analysis in analysing institutional change provides new insights into the processes through which institutional fields evolve as well as into how institutional entrepreneurs are able to act strategically to embody their interests in the resulting institutions.
Uniform Coverage of Automotive Surface Patches
Authors: Atkar Prasad N. , Greenfield Aaron , Conner David C. , Choset Howie , Rizzi Alfred A.
Published: November 2005

In spray painting applications, it is essential to generate a spray gun trajectory such that the entire surface is completely covered and receives an acceptably uniform layer of paint deposition; we call this the “uniform coverage” problem. The uniform coverage problem is challenging because the atomizer emits a non-trivial paint distribution, thus making the relationships between the spray gun trajectory and the deposition uniformity complex. To understand the key issues involved in uniform coverage, we consider surface patches that are geodesically convex and topologically simple as representative of subsets of realistic automotive surfaces. In addition to ensuring uniform paint deposition on the surface, our goal is to also minimize the associated process cycle time and paint waste. Based on the relationships between the spray gun trajectory and the output characteristics (i.e., uniformity, cycle time and paint waste), our approach decomposes the coverage trajectory generation problem into three subproblems: (1) selecting a seed curve, (2) determining a speed profile along each pass, and (3) selecting the spacing between successive passes. Using concepts such as area magnification and the Gauss-Bonnet theorem from differential geometry, as well as standard optimization procedures, we present procedures to solve each subproblem independently from the others. We demonstrate our trajectory planning procedures by approximating real automotive surfaces by simple surfaces in simulation, and finally evaluate the effectiveness of our algorithms experimentally on real automotive surfaces.
Myth and Science around Gender and Sexuality: Eros and the Three Sexes in Plato's Symposium
Authors: Groneberg Michael
Published: November 2005

Plato's Symposium contains some myths treating matters of gender and erotics, among them Aristophanes’ tale of the three primordial sexes of mankind. The following text interprets the role of this myth both within the context of the Symposium and in modern science and expounds how the concepts of the third sex and androgyny have been re-actualized by sexology and psychoanalysis since the 19 th century. The similarities with the ancient positions demonstrate the pertinence and power of the myths’ overall propositions. The differences seem to imply the effective presence of other myths of Judaeo-Christian origin. In any case, the ancient tensions between an Aristophanic and a Socratic attitude are still active. Along these lines, the conceptual relations of androgyny or the third sex with erotic preferences are clarified.
The Invention of the Neuter
Authors: Murat Laure
Published: November 2005

From the Symbolist period to the inter-war years, and in works ever more numerous as time went by, literature and medicine, both together and separately, constructed a discourse progressively focused on the enigma of the ‘third sex’. But how perceived? As an aberration, a mere legend, a mirage, a mental defect, a mistake of nature? The ‘third sex’ came to designate the sex of the indistinct, that which has no name, drawing within its sphere the primordial Adam, the angel, the ephebe, the androgyne, the hermaphrodite, the transvestite, the effeminate male, the mannish woman, the pederast, the sodomite, the tribade, the Sapphist, the transsexual, the degenerate. Around 1900, to this unsettling tribe was even added the working woman who, as a result, was thought to have ‘abandoned her true condition’, and who thus had become ‘desexualized’ or ‘asexual’. In his preface to Willy's treatise on the Third Sex (1927), describing the Paris of Sodom and Gomorrah, Louis Estève drew attention to the part played by a now totally forgotten novel of the same name, The Third Sex by Ernst Ludwig von Wolzogen (1902), in the creation, handing down and popularization of this term. But contrary to what this title might suggest, Wolzogen does not focus on homosexuals in his book, but rather on those independent women, without husbands but with jobs, whom he refers to as ‘the neuters’. Neutrality conceived of as the effacement of the masculine and the feminine, perhaps as an effect of modern life? The theme has now come full circle in the corpus of reflection on the third sex, though it seems to have been applied more specifically to emancipated women, and singularly to lesbians.
'When I Write, I am Sexless'
Authors: Ladjali Cécile
Published: November 2005

The myths which seek to assert the idea of completeness per medium of the creature of dual sex are legion. The androgyne of Plato, the Tiresias of the fable, through their double sexuality and their ability to meld in one body both animus and anima, the genius of man and the genius of woman, affirm the idea of ontological perfection. But, consubstantial with their radiant power is the terror that they generate. For they unsettle even the gods. Symbol of the creative harmony and beauty of the universe, the androgyne is nonetheless the harbinger of catastrophe. Its perfection is an anomaly. Its beauty a provocation. Its intelligence an insult. For the androgyne is the copy of God, the extremity of a hand that shapes, capable of what God is able.
Corps de Chine: The Work of Ma Liuming
Authors: Lettrée Anne
Published: November 2005

In 2002, at the Shanghai Biennale, which she attended to publicize French artists’ work, the gallery-owner Anne Lettrée was fascinated to discover the vitality of young Chinese artists. Since that date she has made around ten trips to the People's Republic and set up contacts with more than 150 artists from all disciplines (painters, sculptors, photographers, etc.)

Her meeting with Ma Liuming, who lives in Beijing and whose early work dates back 15 years or so, resulted in a show in Paris, in the Anne Lettrée gallery, in 2003. With the title ‘Corps de Chine - Acte I’ it was the start of a series of events around gender and sexuality - or sexing - themes that are at the same time central and concealed in Chinese civilization.
Finite Element Formulation of Tire with Static Foundation Contact and Its Application
Authors: Yan Xiangqiao
Published: November 2005

Tire's are made up of a typical fiber–rubber composite structure. A finite element model of a tire with foundation contact is developed in this study. In this model, the rubber compounds are simulated by incompressible elements, which are treated using the Lagrangian multipliers method. The nonlinear mechanical properties of the elastomers are modeled by the Mooney–Rivlin model. The belts, carcass, and bead are modeled by an equivalent orthotropic material model in which the effective moduli are determined from the individual material properties of the rubber compound and cord based on the Halpin–Tsai equations. For composite elements consisting of multi-ply cord–rubber composites, three-dimensional effective elastic constants can be determined using the material model presented by Sun and Li. The contact constraint of the tire with a flat foundation and rigid rim is treated using the variable constraint method. For the large deformation description of the tire, the Lagrangian method is used here. The strain tensor and the stress tensor are selected as, respectively, the Green–Lagrangian strain tensor and the second Piola– Kirchhoff stress tensor. In finite element code, two kinds of three-dimensional elements are used – an eight-node brick isoparametric element (hexahedral element) and a six-node isoparametric element (pentahedral element). The present numerical results show that the reliability and convergence of the model are fairly good. Moreover, three groups of radial tires with different belt widths under inflation and static footprint loading are analyzed using the finite element method. Based on the detailed analysis for stress analysis parameters in the critical regions in the tires, the relative belt edge endurance is predicted.
A Study on Damage Effect of Vacuum Thermocycling on M40J–Epoxy Composites
Authors: Yu Gao , De-Zhuang Yang , Shi-Yu He , Yong Liu , Sheng-Ling Jiang , Zhi-Jun Li
Published: November 2005

Vacuum thermocycling is performed in unidirectional M40J–AG-80 composites, and changes in the bending strength and modulus, the mass loss ratios, the surface morphology, and the internal structure transitions are examined. Results show that the vacuum thermocycling could cause the debonding in the interfacial layers between the AG-80 epoxy matrix and carbon fibers, as well as the post curing in the epoxy matrix. The changes in the bending strength and modulus, the mass loss ratio, and the surface morphology of the M40J–AG-80 composites can be related to the debonding and the post curing due to vacuum thermocycling.
Study of Cracked Unidirectional Glass Fiber-reinforced Composites by Digital Speckle Correlation Method
Authors: Dai Jian Jun , Liang Xi Dong , Yao Xue Feng , YEH H. Y.
Published: November 2005

Deformation and fracture behavior of glass fiber-reinforced composites with single-edge crack under tensile loading is studied by means of the traditional stress measurement method combined with digital speckle correlation method. After capturing the deformation image of the crack tip in different loading processes, the horizontal and vertical displacement fields are obtained. At the same time, using a three-element strain gauge, the strain responses near the crack tip during the whole damage and fracture process of the tensile specimen are recorded. The width of the local deformation region at the crack tip of the glass fiber-reinforced composite materials is determined. Then the analyses of deformation and fracture in a unidirectional fiberreinforced composite are performed. These results play an important role in understanding the deformation and fracture mechanism of the unidirectional glass fiber-reinforced composite materials.
Income Inequality Among Older Adults in Hong Kong: An Analysis of Change From 1981 to 2001
Authors: Chou Kee-Lee , Chow Nelson W. S.
Published: November 2005

This article examines the economic status and income inequality of the elderly population in Hong Kong based on data collected in population censuses. Specifically, the median income of elderly headed households in 1981, 1991, and 2001; the Gini coefficients and Lorenz curves for elderly headed and nonelderly headed households in 1981, 1991, and 2001; and the Gini coefficients and Lorenz curves for three age groups (i.e., aged 65 to 69, 70 to 74, and 75 and older) of the elderly headed households in 2001 were examined. The data show that although the economic status of elderly headed families improved substantially in the past two decades, income inequality remained at a high level during the same period of time. Findings indicate that public benefits for the aged population must be changed to be stronger in redistributive power so that income inequality in the elderly population can be improved through this measure.
Getting the Message Out to Older Adults: Effective HIV Health Education Risk Reduction Publications
Authors: Orel Nancy A. , Spence Maria , Steele Jenessa
Published: November 2005

Printed publications on HIV/AIDS for an older adult population were obtained from state public health departments within the United States in a previous study that explored the availability of age-specific HIV/AIDS prevention materials. The current study examines whether the HIV health education/risk reduction information contained in these publications is applicable and appropriate to the prevention needs of older adults. Based on an extensive literature review, four major thematic recommendations for designing HIV/AIDS risk reduction print materials for older adults were used as a framework to evaluate the content of these print publications. The results indicate that the currently available publications do not meet all the criteria when assessed using the four thematic categories of recommendations. These findings suggest that greater attention must be given to developing and securing HIV prevention educational materials that adequately address societal attitudes, myths, and biases encountered by older adults.
Family Satisfaction With Residential Care Provision: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Dobbs Debra , Montgomery Rhonda
Published: November 2005

The goal of this study was to assess the impact of staff commitment on outcomes of quality of care in residential care facilities in a sample of 260 family members of residents and 206 direct care staff from 24 residential care/assisted living (RC/AL) homes in Kansas. Quality of care was measured as family satisfaction, and individual- and facility-level predictors were used in the model. The significant predictors of family satisfaction were the family member’s age and relationship to elder. The findings suggest that both of these variables are tied to beliefs that family members have about their own responsibility for care, which may in turn influence their satisfaction with care. This hypothesis deserves further attention in future research. Also, the failure of this study to affirm an expected relationship between staff commitment and family satisfaction should prompt further research related to staff commitment and family satisfaction.
Improved Pharmacological Properties for Superoxide Dismutase Modified with Carboxymethycellulose
Authors: Dominguez Amalia , Valdivia Aimara , Caballero Julio , Villalonga Reynaldo , Martínez Gregorio , Schacht Etienne H.
Published: November 2005

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was chemically modified with carboxymethylcellulose through two different synthetic procedures: Reductive alkylation with the periodate-oxidized polymer (SOD-CMCox), and the formation of amide linkages through a carbodiimide catalyzed reaction (SODCMCedac). The SOD-CMCox and SOD-CMCedac conjugates contained about 1.8–1.2mol of polymer per mol of protein, and retained 68–78% of the initial catalytic activity, respectively. The glycosidated enzymes were more resistant to inactivation with H2O2 and their plasma half-life times were prolonged to 34.7h – 6.6h when compared with 4.8min for native SOD. The anti-inflammatory activity of the enzyme was 2–2.4 times increased after conjugation with the polymer.
Durability of Natural Fiber-reinforced Composites of Ethylene–Propylene Copolymer under Accelerated Weathering and Composting Conditions
Authors: Kumar Annamalai Pratheep , Depan Dilip , Singh Raj Pal
Published: November 2005

Three types of composites are prepared by the melt mixing of ethylene–propylene copolymer (EPC) with (i) 3% NaOH-treated jute fiber, (ii) 17.5% NaOH-treated jute fiber, and (iii) commercial microcrystalline cellulose powder using maleated EPC as compatibilizer. The composites obtained are characterized by FTIR and microscopic measurements. Their mechanical properties are measured using a UTM (Instron model 4204). The durability of the composites is evaluated in an irradiation chamber with UV radiation of wavelength 290nm and composting conditions at different time intervals. The composites made from microcrystalline cellulose show superior mechanical properties, biodisintegrability, as well as photoresistance whereas the specimen containing 3% NaOH-treated fiber exhibited the lowest photoresistance. Increasing the quantity of maleated EP (MEP) in the composition decreases photostability. Neat EPC has been found to be highly stable than all the composites with increasing UV irradiation. It has been found that the composites are less durable under both abiotic and biotic conditions in comparison to the neat polymer.
From Serving Neighbors to Recontrolling Urban Society
Authors: Wong Linda , Poon Bernard
Published: November 2005

In China, street offices and residents' committees are the neighborhood institutions which make up what is popularly and officially known as the local community. Under Mao, these structures performed overt political functions besides furnishing social services to local residents. Since 1987, neighborhood agencies have greatly expanded their service portfolio under the Ministry of Civil Affairs' “social welfare socialization policy” ( shehui fuli shehuihua zhengce). In the last few years, new programs such as community employment and the management of retired workers have been given strong emphasis. Not only this, but state community policy has also turned from service provision to community building. The authors argue that this new direction signals a reinvigoration of political and social management functions by the neighborhood as the state seeks to recontrol urban society under conditions of work unit collapse and rapid social transformation.
William Carleton between Irish and English: using literary dialect to study language contact and change
Authors: McCafferty Kevin
Published: November 2005

This study examines two features of the Irish English literary dialect of William Carleton, a bilingual writer of the period when Ireland shifted to English. It addresses the issue of the validity of literary dialect via empirical comparison of the use of plural verbal -s in Carleton and in personal letters written by a close contemporary from a similar background. The result suggests considerable accuracy in Carleton’s dialect representation: he uses plural verbal -snot only in agreement with the complex constraints of the Northern Subject Rule but also in line with usage in the letters. Then the study examines Carleton’s use of the be after V-ing construction, which is typically a perfect in present-day Irish English. The future uses found in older texts are sometimes cited as examples of inauthentic literary dialect. However, like others of his generation, Carleton uses be after V-ingin both future and perfect senses. Given his social and linguistic background, his place in relation to the language shift, and the apparent accuracy with which he portrays dialect features, Carleton provides crucial support for the view that future uses arose in a language contact situation in which speakers of British English interpreted be after V-ingas a future, while speakers of Irish acquiring English intended it as a calque on an Irish perfect. As more Irish shifted to English, perfect meanings came to dominate. Carleton and his contemporaries bear witness to the middle phase of this process.
Design, Modeling, and Initial Experiments on Microscale Amplification Device
Authors: Garcia Ephrahim , Nam Yoonsu , Lobontiu Nicolae
Published: November 2005

This article proposes the design of several microelectromechanical amplification devices formed of many identical microunits that are connected in a serial–parallel configuration, each being individually actuated and amplifying its own input motion. The microdevices realize the border-crossing from the micro-to the meso-scale displacement domain as they combine the micron-level individual inputs into millimeter-range output levels. The base structural unit is a flexure-based compliant device that is capable of transforming the input from a thermal actuator into an amplified displacement, about a direction perpendicular to the input one. The base unit is designed based on performance criteria, such as displacement amplification, input stiffness and output stiffness by utilizing finite element simulation, and an algorithm based on closed-form compliance equations of the incorporated flexure hinges. The microelectromechanical amplification device is monitored by means of embedded capacitive displacement sensors for the input port. The feasibility of the device design was verified through a numerical simulation and some initial experimental results are presented.
Collateral Damage: How the San Diego-Imperial Valley Water Agreement Affects the Mexican Side of the Border
Authors: Maganda Carmen
Published: November 2005

This article contends that local water practices are a fundamental element of border water politics. It asks who makes decisions concerning the distribution of binational water resources, how are these decisions made, and how do they get implemented. The analysis examines the particular case of San Diego-Imperial Valley water transfers within the context of water overallocation and urbanization in the Colorado River basin in Southern California and how this dynamic of transfers will affect the Mexican side of the binational Colorado Delta (Imperial Valley-Mexicali).
The Behavioral Determinants of Breast-Feeding in the Netherlands: Predictors for the Initiation of Breast-Feeding
Authors: Kools Els J. , Thijs Carel , Vries Hein de
Published: November 2005

The aim of this study was to evaluate the behavioral determinants of the initiation of breast-feeding at birth. The prospective cohort study used the attitude, social influence, self-efficacy (ASE) model in 373 pregnant women in five child health care centers. Prenatally, 72% of the women had the intention to breast-feed, and 73% actually started with breast-feeding at birth. Mothers who initiated breast-feeding differed in almost all the attitude, social influence, and self-efficacy determinants fromm others who initiated formula feeding. Intention was a very strong predictor of the initiation of breast-feeding. The components of the ASE model predicted the initiation of breast-feeding. Hence, the results may be used to tailor future interventions aimed at promoting breast-feeding.