bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in the Empirics of Organizational Economics
Authors: Bloom Nicholas , Sadun Raffaella , Van Reenen John
Published: August 2010

We present a survey of recent contributions in empirical organizational economics, focusing on management practices and decentralization. Productivity dispersion between firms and countries has motivated the improved measurement of firm organization across industries and countries. There appears to be substantial variation in management practices and decentralization not only between countries, but also especially within countries. Much of the poorer average management quality in countries like Brazil and India seems to result from a long tail of poorly managed firms, which barely exist in the United States. Some stylized facts include the following: (a) Competition seems to foster improved management and decentralization; (b) larger firms, skill-intensive plants, and foreign multinationals appear better managed and are more decentralized; (c) firms that are both family owned and managed appear to have worse management and are more centralized; and (d) firms facing an environment of lighter labor market regulations and more human capital specialize relatively more in people management. There is evidence for complementarities between information and communication technology, decentralization, and management, but the relationship is complex, and identification of the productivity effects of organizational practices remains a challenge for future research.
Commitment Devices
Authors: Bryan Gharad , Karlan Dean , Nelson Scott
Published: August 2010

We review the recent evidence on commitment devices and discuss how this evidence relates to theoretical questions about the demand for, and effectiveness of, commitment. Several important distinctions emerge. First, we distinguish between what we call hard and soft commitments and identify how soft commitments, in particular, can help with various dilemmas, both in explaining empirical behavior and in designing effective commitment devices. Second, we highlight the importance of certain modeling assumptions in predicting when commitment devices will be demanded and examine the laboratory and field evidence on the demand for commitment devices. Third, we present the evidence on both informal and formal commitment devices, and we conclude with a discussion of policy implications, including sin taxes, consumer protection, and commitment device design.
Questions in Decision Theory
Authors: Gilboa Itzhak
Published: August 2010

This review surveys a few major questions in the field of decision theory. It is argued that a re-examination of some of the fundamental concepts in decision theory may have important implications to theoretical and even empirical research in economics and related fields.
Heterogeneity, Selection, and Wealth Dynamics
Authors: Blume Lawrence , Easley David
Published: August 2010

The market selection hypothesis states that, among expected utility maximizers, competitive markets select for agents with correct beliefs. In some economies this hypothesis holds, whereas in others it fails. It holds in complete-markets economies with a common discount factor and bounded aggregate consumption. It can fail when markets are incomplete, when consumption grows too quickly, or when discount factors and beliefs are correlated. These insights have implications for the general equilibrium modeling of asset prices and macroeconomic phenomena.
Intergenerational Equity
Authors: Asheim Geir B.
Published: August 2010

Axiomatic analysis of intergenerational social preferences over infinite streams of well-being faces the following dilemma. Equal treatment of generations combined with sensitivity for the interests of each generation rules out explicitly defined preferences that can rank any pair of infinite well-being streams. Hence, either intergenerational social preferences must be incomplete or equal treatment and sensitivity must be compromised. This critical review of axiomatic analyses of preferences over infinite streams evaluates different kinds of intergenerational social preferences by comparing their axiomatic basis as well as their performance in simple present-future conflicts. The scope for application is discussed, using real-world intergenerational conflicts (such as global warming) as a backdrop.
Regional Trade Agreements
Authors: Freund Caroline , Ornelas Emanuel
Published: August 2010

This article reviews the theoretical and the empirical literature on regionalism. The formation of regional trade agreements has been, by far, the most popular form of reciprocal trade liberalization in the past 15 years. The discriminatory character of these agreements has raised three main concerns: that trade diversion would be rampant, because special interest groups would induce governments to form the most distortionary agreements; that broader external trade liberalization would stall or reverse; and that multilateralism could be undermined. Theoretically, all these concerns are legitimate, although there are also several theoretical arguments that oppose them. Empirically, neither widespread trade diversion nor stalled external liberalization has materialized, whereas the undermining of multilateralism has not been properly tested. There are also several aspects of regionalism that have received too little attention from researchers, but which are central to understanding its causes and consequences.
The World Trade Organization: Theory and Practice
Authors: Bagwell Kyle , Staiger Robert W.
Published: August 2010

We consider the purpose and design of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and its predecessor, the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), and review recent developments in the relevant theoretical and empirical literature. We describe the GATT/WTO architecture and briefly trace its historical antecedents. We suggest that the existing literature provides a useful framework for understanding and interpreting central features of the design and practice of the GATT/WTO, and we identify key unresolved issues.
Androgen deprivation induces rapid involution and recovery of human prostate vasculature
Authors: Godoy Alejandro , Montecinos Viviana P. , Gray Danny R. , Sotomayor Paula , Yau Jeffrey M. , Vethanayagam R. Robert , Singh Swaroop , Mohler James L. , Smith Gary J.
Published: August 2010

The response of the prostate tissue microenvironment to androgen deprivation (AD) represents a critical component in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer (CaP). Primary xenografts of human benign and CaP tissue transplanted to immunocompromized SCID mice were used to characterize the response of the prostate vasculature during the initial 14 days of AD. Microvessel density and vascular lumen diameter in the prostate xenografts decreased rapidly after AD, reached a nadir on days 2–4, and recovered between days 4 and 14. The number of apoptotic endothelial cells peaked on day 2 after AD and decreased to precastration levels over days 4–7. Leakage of vascular contents in the interstitial space was apparent between days 1 and 3 after AD; however, the vascular permeability barrier reestablished between days 7 and 14. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A, VEGF receptor-2, and basic fibroblast growth factor protein increased in endothelial cells between days 2 and 4 after AD, which preceded vascular recovery and appeared to be a direct and specific response of the endothelial cells to AD. Lack of comparable upregulation of these genes in primary cultures of human prostate endothelial cells in response to AD suggests a role for paracrine signaling mediated through stromal or epithelial cells. VEGF-A expression by prostate endothelial cells appears to represent a key facilitator of the vascular rebound in human prostate tissue induced by removal of circulating testicular androgens.
Intrinsic nitric oxide and superoxide production regulates descending vasa recta contraction
Authors: Cao Chunhua , Edwards Aurélie , Sendeski Mauricio , Lee-kwon Whaseon , Cui Lan , Cai Chun-Yu , Patzak Andreas , Pallone Thomas L.
Published: August 2010

Descending vasa recta (DVR) are 12- to 15-μm microvessels that supply the renal medulla with blood flow. We examined the ability of intrinsic nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation to regulate their vasoactivity. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition with Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (l-NAME; 100 μmol/l), or asymmetric NG, NG-dimethyl-l-arginine (ADMA; 100 μmol/l), constricted isolated microperfused DVR by 48.82 ± 4.34 and 27.91 ± 2.91%, respectively. Restoring NO with sodium nitroprusside (SNP; 1 mmol/l) or application of 8-Br-cGMP (100 μmol/l) reversed DVR vasoconstriction by l-NAME. The superoxide dismutase mimetic Tempol (1 mmol/l) and the NAD(P)H inhibitor apocynin (100, 1,000 μmol/l) also blunted ADMA- or l-NAME-induced vasoconstriction, implicating a role for concomitant generation of ROS. A role for ROS generation was also supported by an l-NAME-associated rise in oxidation of dihydroethidium that was prevented by Tempol or apocynin. To test whether H2O2 might play a role, we examined its direct effects. From 1 to 100 μmol/l, H2O2 contracted DVR whereas at 1 mmol/l it was vasodilatory. The H2O2 scavenger polyethylene glycol-catalase reversed H2O2 (10 μmol/l)-induced vasoconstriction; however, it did not affect l-NAME-induced contraction. Finally, the previously known rise in DVR permeability to 22Na and [3H]raffinose that occurs with luminal perfusion was not prevented by NOS blockade. We conclude that intrinsic production of NO and ROS can modulate DVR vasoactivity and that l-NAME-induced vasoconstriction occurs, in part, by modulating superoxide concentration and not through H2O2 generation. Intrinsic NO production does not affect DVR permeability to hydrophilic solutes.
Postdural Puncture Headache
Authors: Ghaleb Ahmed
Published: August 2010

Postdural puncture headache (PDPH) has been a problem for patients, following dural puncture, since August Bier reported the first case in 1898. His paper discussed the pathophysiology of low-pressure headache resulting from leakage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the subarachnoid to the epidural space. Clinical and laboratory research over the last 30 years has shown that use of small-gauge needles, particularly of the pencil-point design, is associated with a lower risk of PDPH than traditional cutting point needle tips (Quincke-point needle). A careful history can rule out other causes of headache. A postural component of headache is the sine qua non of PDPH. In high-risk patients , for example, age < 50 years, postpartum, large-gauge needle puncture, epidural blood patch should be performed within 24–48 h of dural puncture. The optimum volume of blood has been shown to be 12–20 mL for adult patients. Complications of AEBP are rare.
Boundedness and Stability for Discrete‐Time Delayed Neural Network with Complex‐Valued Linear Threshold Neurons
Authors: Duan Chengjun , Song Qiankun
Published: August 2010

The discrete‐time delayed neural network with complex‐valued linear threshold neurons is considered. By constructing appropriate Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functionals and employing linear matrix inequality technique and analysis method, several new delay‐dependent criteria for checking the boundedness and global exponential stability are established. Illustrated examples are also given to show the effectiveness and less conservatism of the proposed criteria.
Silica Aerogel: Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Gurav Jyoti L. , Jung In-Keun , Park Hyung-Ho , Kang Eul Son , Nadargi Digambar Y.
Published: August 2010

Silica aerogels have drawn a lot of interest both in science and technology because of their low bulk density (up to 95% of their volume is air), hydrophobicity, low thermal conductivity, high surface area, and optical transparency. Aerogels are synthesized from molecular precursors by sol‐gel processing. Special drying techniques must be applied to replace the pore liquid with air while maintaining the solid network. Supercritical drying is most common; however, recently developed methods allow removal of the liquid at atmospheric pressure after chemical modification of the inner surface of the gels, leaving only a porous silica network filled with air. Therefore, by considering the surprising properties of aerogels, the present review addresses synthesis of silica aerogels by the sol‐gel method, as well as drying techniques and applications in current industrial development and scientific research.
Iron Overload in Diabetic Retinopathy: A Cause or a Consequence of Impaired Mechanisms?
Authors: Ciudin Andreea , Hernández Cristina , Simó Rafael
Published: August 2010

Iron is an essential ion for life, playing a central role in many metabolic processes. The most important property of free iron is its capacity to be reversibly oxidized and reduced, but at same time this make it highly pro-oxidant molecule. In this regard, iron is able to generate powerful reactive oxygen species (ROS). For this reason, careful control on iron availability is central to the maintenance of normal cell function in the retina. In the diabetic eye there is an impairment of iron homeostasis, thus leading to iron overload. The mechanisms involved in this process include: (1) Destruction of heme molecules induced by hyperglycemia (2) Intraretinal and vitreal hemorrhages (3) Overexpression of the renin-angiotensin system. The main consequences of iron overload are the following: (1) Retinal neurodegeneration due to the increase of oxidative stress (2) Increase of AGE-RAGE binding (3) Defective phagocytosis of retinal pigment epithelium, which generates the accumulation of autoantigens and the synthesis of proinflammatory cytokines. Further studies addressed to explore not only the role of iron in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy, but also to design novel therapeutic strategies based on the regulation of iron homeostasis are needed.
Convergence of Three-Step Iterations Scheme for Nonself Asymptotically Nonexpansive Mappings
Authors: Temir Seyit
Published: August 2010

Weak and strong convergence theorems of three-step iterations are established for nonself asymptotically nonexpansive mappings in uniformly convex Banach space. The results obtained in this paper extend and improve the recent ones announced by Suantai (2005), Khan and Hussain (2008), Nilsrakoo and Saejung (2006), and many others.
New Oscillation Criteria for Second‐Order Delay Differential Equations with Mixed Nonlinearities
Authors: Bai Yuzhen , Liu Lihua
Published: August 2010

We establish new oscillation criteria for second‐order delay differential equations with mixed nonlinearities of the form , where p(t), pi(t), qi(t), and e(t) are continuous functions defined on [0, ∞), and p(t) > 0, p′(t) ≥ 0, and α1 > ⋯>αm > 1 > αm+1 > ⋯>αn > 0. No restriction is imposed on the potentials pi(t), qi(t), and e(t) to be nonnegative. These oscillation criteria extend and improve the results given in the recent papers. An interesting example illustrating the sharpness of our results is also provided.
Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Associated with Myasthenia Gravis: A Case Report
Authors: Onasanya Olukayode , Nochlin David , Casas Victor , Peddareddygari Leema Reddy , Grewal Raji P.
Published: August 2010

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease is a self-limited benign condition of unknown etiology characterized by cervical lymphadenopathy, fever, and leucopenia. An autoimmune hypothesis has been suggested and an association with systemic lupus erythematosus, Sjogren's disease, and antiphospholipid syndrome has been noted. We report a 27-year-old male who presented for evaluation of weakness and he was diagnosed with seropositive generalized myasthenia gravis and underwent a thymectomy. He was stable until five months post-thymectomy, when he developed a high fever associated with nontender cervical lymphadenopathy, chills, and night sweats. Histopathology of a cervical lymph gland biopsy was compatible with Kikuchi-Fujimoto lymphadenitis. He improved spontaneously and was asymptomatic at the followup six months later. Our case expands the association of Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease with autoimmune disorders to include myasthenia gravis.
Preparation and Ordered Self-Assembly of Nano-Pd-Ga/PMMA by Ultrasonic
Authors: Guo Cai Xu , Ming Hu DAI , Xiao Li JI , Xiao Mei Zhang , Hong Long Xing
Published: August 2010

Nano-Ga-Pd/poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA) composite materials were prepared with the palladium chloride solution containing metal gallium, MMA as monomer, and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as emulsifier without initiatoror reducer. Pd, Ga, andGa5Pdphase in PMMA matrix were identified by XRD. The characteristic absorption peak at 200 nm for nano-Ga/PMMA polymer solution, at 209 nm for nano-Pd/PMMA polymer solution were proved by UV-Vis; the binding energy changes of O1s, Ga2p3, Ga2d, and Pd3d were characterized by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It is concluded that nano-Ga5Pdwas produced based on segment electronics shifting from Gallium to Palladium, and coordination was formed on segment electronics from Gallium to oxygen of PMMA ester group. The anisotropism ordered assembly of PMMA around nano-Ga-Pd particles were illuminated by transmission electron microscopy; it is further interpreted that nano Ga-Pd particles had ordered-assembly induced effect.
Mechanism and Growth of Flexible ZnO Nanostructure Arrays in a Facile Controlled Way
Authors: Sheng Yangping , Jiang Yang , Lan Xinzheng , Wang Chun , Li Shanying , Liu Xinmei , Zhong Honghai
Published: August 2010

Nanostructure arrays-based flexible devices have revolutionary impacts on the application of traditional semiconductor devices. Here, a one-step method to synthesize flexible ZnO nanostructure arrays on Zn-plated flexible substrate in Zn(NO3)2/NH3⋅H2Osolution system at 70–90∘Cwas developed. We found out that the decomposition of Zn(OH)2precipitations, formed in lowerNH3⋅H2Oconcentration, in the bulk solution facilitates the formation of flower-like structure. In higher temperature, 90∘C, ZnO nanoplate arrays were synthesized by the hydrolysis of zinc hydroxide. Highly dense ZnO nanoparticale layer formed by the reaction ofNH3⋅H2Owith Zn plating layer in the initial self-seed process could improve the vertical alignment of the nanowires arrays. The diameter of ZnO nanowire arrays, from 200 nm to 60 nm, could be effectively controlled by changing the stability of Zn(NH3)42+complex ions by varying the ratio of Zn(NO3)2toNH3⋅H2Owhich further influence the release rate ofZn2+ions. This is also conformed by different amounts of the Zn vacancy as determined by different UV emissions of the PL spectra in the range of 380–403 nm.
Linear Assembles of BN Nanosheets, Fabricated in Polymer/BN Nanosheet Composite Film
Authors: Cho Hong-Baek , Nakayama Tadachika , Suzuki Tsuneo , Tanaka Satoshi , Jiang Weihua , Suematsu Hisayuki , Niihara Koichi
Published: August 2010

Linear assembles of BN nanosheets (LABNs) were fabricated in polysiloxane/BN nanosheet composite film under a high DC electric field. The hexagonal BN nanosheets were dispersed by sonication in a prepolymer mixture of polysiloxane followed by a high-speed mixing. The homogeneous suspension was cast on a spacer of microscale thickness and applied to a high DC electric field before it became cross-linked. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and digital microscopy revealed that LABNs formed in the polysiloxane matrix and that the BN nanosheets in the LABNs were aligned perpendicular to the film plane with high anisotropy. This is the first time that linear assemblies of nanosheets have been fabricated in an organic-inorganic hybrid film by applying a DC electric field. The enhanced thermal conductivity of the composite film is attributed to the LABNs. The LABN formation and heat conduction mechanisms are discussed. The polysiloxane/BN nanosheet composite film has the potential to be used semiconductor applications that require both a high thermal conductivity and a high electric insulation.
Suppression of Casein Kinase 1α in Melanoma Cells Induces a Switch in β-Catenin Signaling to Promote Metastasis
Authors: Sinnberg Tobias , Menzel Moritz , Kaesler Susanne , Biedermann Tilo , Sauer Birgit , Nahnsen Sven , Schwarz Michael , Garbe Claus , Schittek Birgit
Published: August 2010

Casein kinase 1 α (CK1α) is a multifunctional Ser/Thr kinase that phosphorylates several substrates. Among those is β-catenin, an important player in cell adhesion and Wnt signaling. Phosphorylation of β-catenin by CK1α at Ser45 is the priming reaction for the proteasomal degradation of β-catenin. Interestingly, aside from this role in β-catenin degradation, very little is known about the expression and functional role of CK1α in tumor cells. Here, we show that CK1α expression in different tumor types is either strongly suppressed or completely lost during tumor progression and that CK1α is a key factor determining β-catenin stability and transcriptional activity in tumor cells. CK1α reexpression in metastatic melanoma cells reduces growth in vitro and metastasis formation in vivo, and induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, whereas suppression of CK1α in primary melanoma cells induces invasive tumor growth. Inactivation of CK1α promotes tumor progression by regulating a switch in β-catenin–mediated signaling. These results show that melanoma cells developed an efficient new mechanism to activate the β-catenin signaling pathway and define CK1α as a novel tumor suppressor. Cancer Res; 70(17); 6999–7009. ©2010 AACR.
Reciprocal Activation of Prostate Cancer Cells and Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Stimulates Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Cancer Stemness
Authors: Giannoni Elisa , Bianchini Francesca , Masieri Lorenzo , Serni Sergio , Torre Eugenio , Calorini Lido , Chiarugi Paola
Published: August 2010

Although cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAF) are key determinants in the malignant progression of cancer, their functional contribution to this process is still unclear. Analysis of the mutual interplay between prostate carcinoma cells and CAFs revealed a mandatory role of carcinoma-derived interleukin-6 in fibroblast activation. In turn, activated fibroblasts through secretion of metalloproteinases elicit in cancer cells a clear epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as enhancement of tumor growth and development of spontaneous metastases. CAF-induced EMT leads prostate carcinoma cells to enhance expression of stem cell markers, as well as the ability to form prostaspheres and to self-renew. Hence, the paracrine interplay between CAFs and cancer cells leads to an EMT-driven gain of cancer stem cell properties associated with aggressiveness and metastatic spread. Cancer Res; 70(17); 6945–56. ©2010 AACR.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Is Upregulated in Nucleophosmin-Anaplastic Lymphoma Kinase–Positive Anaplastic Lymphomas and Activated at the Cell Surface by the Chaperone Heat Shock Protein 90 to Promote Cell Invasion
Authors: Lagarrigue Frédéric , Dupuis-Coronas Sophie , Ramel Damien , Delsol Georges , Tronchère Hélène , Payrastre Bernard , Gaits-Iacovoni Frédérique
Published: August 2010

Many anaplastic large cell lymphomas (ALCL) express the chimeric oncogene NPM-ALK, which drives malignant transformation and invasion. In this study, we show that NPM-ALK expression increases matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression. Accordingly, we found that 100% of a large panel of ALK(+) ALCL biopsies examined were also MMP-9(+), in contrast to only 36.3% of ALK(−) tumors. Mechanistic studies revealed that Rac1 drove MMP-9 secretion. The MMP inhibitor GM6001 and MMP-9 blocking antibodies abolished the invasiveness of NPM-ALK(+) cells. Interestingly, the hyaluronan receptor CD44 acted as a docking surface for MMP-9 and the chaperone heat shock protein 90 on the cell surface, where MMP-9 was cleaved and activated. Membrane-associated MMP-9 was localized to invadopodia, which display a strong gelatinase activity. Taken together, our observations strengthen the concept that chaperones have a major extracellular role in the regulation of protein activation status, and reveal new factors that are crucial for spreading and invasion of ALK(+) ALCL. They also point out new factors crucial for ALK(+) ALCL. Cancer Res; 70(17); 6978–87. ©2010 AACR.
Synthetic Progestins Differentially Promote or Prevent 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene–Induced Mammary Tumors in Sprague-Dawley Rats
Authors: Benakanakere Indira , Besch-Williford Cynthia , Carroll Candace E. , Hyder Salman M.
Published: August 2010

Recent clinical trials show that combined oral dosing with estrogen and progestin increases the incidence of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Similarly, in a rat model system of mammary carcinogenesis, the synthetic progestin medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) decreases latency and increases incidence of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA)–induced mammary tumors. The goal of this study was to compare the effects of four clinically relevant progestins, MPA, norgestrel (N-EL), norethindrone (N-ONE), and megestrol acetate (MGA), on DMBA-induced mammary carcinogenesis in the rat. The experimental protocol involved implantation of 60-day release progestin pellets four weeks after rats were treated with DMBA. In contrast to the effect of MPA, N-ONE, and N-EL, but not MGA, blocked DMBA-dependent carcinogenesis and a dose-dependent effect on tumor growth was shown for N-EL; MGA did not alter tumor growth. Histopathologic studies showed extensive hyperplastic lesions in mammary tissue of progestin-treated animals. Furthermore, following treatment with N-EL or N-ONE, immunohistochemical staining for vascular endothelial growth factor in hyperplastic mammary tissue was lower than in animals treated with DMBA plus MPA or DMBA alone. Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor-1, estrogen receptor α, and progesterone receptor was also lower in hyperplastic mammary tissue in N-EL–, N-ONE–, and MGA-treated animals. Interestingly, N-EL stimulated progression of existing mammary tumors in DMBA/MPA-treated rats, suggesting stage-specific effects of N-EL in this model. Because N-EL and N-ONE prevent tumor growth in the early stages of DMBA-induced mammary carcinogenesis in rats, these progestins may have potential as chemopreventive agents in women with no history of breast disease or family history of breast cancer. Cancer Prev Res; 3(9); 1157–67. ©2010 AACR.
A Trophic Role for Serotonin in the Development of a Simple Feeding Circuit
Authors: Neckameyer Wendi S.
Published: August 2010

Correct differentiation and positioning of individual synapses during development is fundamental to the normal function of neuronal circuits. While classical transmitters such as serotonin (5-HT) play a critical trophic role in neurogenesis in addition to their functions as transmitters in the mature nervous system, this process is not well understood. We used a simple model to assess both development and function of a specific behavioral circuit in the larval stage of the fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster). We show that, as in all other species examined, the neurotransmitter actions of 5-HT depress feeding, and decreased neuronal 5-HT levels increase appetite. However, using transgenic tools, we show that constitutive knockdown of neuronal 5-HT synthesis to reduce 5-HT levels during central nervous system (CNS) development results in increased branching of the serotonergic fibers projecting to the gut, as well as increased size and number of varicosities along the neurite length. As larvae, these animals display decreased feeding rates relative to controls, and, when given exogenous 5-hydroxytryptophan, feeding is significantly enhanced. Late-stage wild-type embryos exposed to 5-HT to augment 5-HT levels during CNS development display, as mature larvae, a significant decrease in gut fiber branching and total varicosity number, as well as increased feeding and a hyposensitivity to the effects of 5-HT. Exposure of embryos unable to synthesize neuronal serotonin to 5-HT during late embryogenesis results in rescue of the feeding behavior and abnormalities in the 5-HT gut fiber architecture. These results demonstrate an inverse relationship between developmental 5-HT levels and complexity of the fiber architecture projecting to gut tissue, which results in a perturbed feeding pattern. We conclude that 5-HT is tightly regulated during CNS development to direct the normal architecture and mature function of this neural circuit.
Integrin β1 Subunit Signaling Is Involved in the Directed Migration of Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells following Electric Field Stimulation
Authors: Han Jing , Yan Xiao-Long , Han Quan-Hong , Li Yang-Jun , Du Zhao-Jiang , Hui Yan-Nian
Published: August 2010

Aims: Direct current electric fields (EFs) can induce directed cell migration in a wide variety of cells, and this has been proven to be of importance in wound healing. Here we observed the effects of EFs on cultured human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and explored the possible involvement of integrin β1 subunit signaling in the process. Methods: Cultured human RPE cells were exposed to an EF at 5 V/cm for 3 h. The rate and directionality of cell migration were quantified. The distribution of integrin β1 subunit was measured by immunohistochemistry and the expression of integrin β1 subunit and phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (FAK) was determined by PCR and Western blotting. Experiments were performed in the presence or absence of anti-integrin β1 subunit antibody. Results: During exposure to an EF at 5 V/cm for 3 h, the separated human RPE cells and wounded RPE monolayer demonstrated a cathodal-directed migration. The distribution of integrin β1 subunit in the cells was also polarized to the cathode, and the expression in mRNA and its protein level were obviously increased. Furthermore, exposure to EFs of 5 V/cm triggered the phosphorylation of FAK in human RPE cells. In contrast, blocking of integrin β1 subunit suppressed the directed migration of RPE cells and reduced the activation of FAK in EFs. Conclusions: These findings indicate that EF exposure results in directed migration of the separated RPE cells and RPE monolayer. These effects may partially act through the activation of integrin β1 subunit signaling.
Serum Concentration of Bevacizumab after Intravitreal Injection in Experimental Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion
Authors: Chuang Lan-Hsin , Wu Wei-Chi , Yeung Ling , Wang Nan-Kai , Hwang Yih-Shiou , Chen Kuan-Jen , Kuo Jane Zea-Chin , Lai Chi-Chun
Published: August 2010

Aim: To compare the serum concentration of bevacizumab after intravitreal injection of bevacizumab (IVB) in an experimental model of branch retinal vein occlusion (BRVO) with control injections in albino rats. Methods: BRVO was created in one eye of each of the 24 albino rats. Another 24 rats served as controls. The BRVO was generated by argon laser photothrombosis after intravenous injection with Rose Bengal. Three days later, IVB (5 µl) was administered to both BRVO and control eyes. The serum concentration of bevacizumab was examined at baseline, 6 h, 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 14 days, and 28 days after IVB. Results: At baseline, no serum bevacizumab was detected in either group. The serum concentration of bevacizumab reached a peak concentration at 1 day with 5,020 ± 1,602 ng/ml in the BRVO group and 4,103 ± 1,790 ng/ml in the control group (p < 0.001). The concentration decreased subsequently on days 3, 7, 14 and 28. The serum concentration of bevacizumab was significantly higher in BRVO rats up to 28 days after IVB. Conclusions: The serum concentration of bevacizumab after IVB reached its peak on day 1 in both BRVO and control eyes. This value was significantly higher in BRVO rats than in control rats up to 28 days after intravitreal injection.
Smoking Cessation: An Integral Part of Lung Cancer Treatment
Authors: Cataldo Janine K. , Dubey Sarita , Prochaska Jodi J.
Published: August 2010

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the US. About 50% of lung cancer patients are current smokers at the time of diagnosis and up to 83% continue to smoke after diagnosis. A recent study suggests that people who continue to smoke after a diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer almost double their risk of dying. Despite a growing body of evidence that continued smoking by patients after a lung cancer diagnosis is linked with less effective treatment and a poorer prognosis, the belief prevails that treating tobacco dependence is useless. With improved cancer treatments and survival rates, smoking cessation among lung cancer patients has become increasingly important. There is a pressing need to clarify the role of smoking cessation in the care of lung cancer patients. Objective: This paper will report on the benefits of smoking cessation for lung cancer patients and the elements of smoking cessation treatment, with consideration of tailoring to the needs of lung cancer patients. Results: Given the significant benefits of smoking cessation and that tobacco dependence remains a challenge for many lung cancer patients, cancer care providers need to offer full support and intensive treatment with a smoking cessation program that is tailored to lung cancer patients’ specific needs. Conclusion: A tobacco dependence treatment plan for lung cancer patients is provided.
A Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Clinical Study on Biapenem and Imipenem/Cilastatin Injection in the Treatment of Respiratory and Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Jia Bei , Lu Ping , Huang Wenxiang , Li Chongzhi , Huang Ailong , Zhou Xiangdong , Zhang Weili , Wu Guoming , Zhang Genfu
Published: August 2010

Background: Biapenem is an injectable carbapenem antibiotic. A clinical study was designed to evaluate its efficacy and safety in the treatment of respiratory and urinary infections compared to imipenem/cilastatin. Methods: A total of 216 patients with respiratory or urinary tract infections were enrolled into this multicenter, open-label, randomized controlled clinical study. Each patient was randomly assigned to either the treatment or control group; 106 patients in each group were included in the ITT analyses. The patients were given biapenem 300 mg or imipenem/cilastatin 500 mg/500 mg two or three times daily, i.v. g.t.t. for 7–14 days according to their conditions. Results: The cure and effective rates were 67.92 and 88.68% in the biapenem group and 76.02 and 93.40% in the imipenem/cilastatin group, the bacterial eradication rates were 93.83 and 98.82%, and the adverse-event rates were 6.54 and 7.41%, respectively. There were no significant differences between the two groups (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Biapenem is as effective and well-tolerated as imipenem/cilastatin for the treatment of intermediate and severe bacterial infections.
Body Mass Index and Survival After In-Hospital Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Jain Renuka , Nallamothu Brahmajee K. , Chan Paul S. ,   for the American Heart Association National Registry of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (NRCPR) Investigators*
Published: August 2010

Background—

The quality and effectiveness of resuscitation processes may be influenced by the patient's body mass index (BMI); however, the relationship between BMI and survival after in-hospital cardiac arrest has not been previously studied.

Methods and Results—

We evaluated 21 237 adult patients with an in-hospital cardiac arrest within the National Registry for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (NRCPR). We examined the association between BMI (classified as underweight [<18.5 kg/m
2
], normal [18.5 to 24.9 kg/m
2
], overweight [25.0 to 29.9 kg/m
2
], obese [30.0 to 34.9 kg/m
2
], and very obese [≥35.0 kg/m
2
]) and survival to hospital discharge using multivariable logistic regression, after stratifying arrests by rhythm type and adjusting for patient characteristics. Of 4499 patients with ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia as initial rhythm, 1825 (40.6%) survived to discharge. After multivariable adjustment, compared with overweight patients, underweight (odds ratio [OR], 0.59; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.41 to 0.84;
P
=0.003), normal weight (OR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.63 to 0.89;
P
<0.001), and very obese (OR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.63 to 0.96;
P
=0.02) had lower rates of survival, whereas obese patients had similar rates of survival (OR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.72 to 1.06;
P
=0.17). In contrast, of 16 738 patients with arrests caused by asystole or pulseless electric activity, only 2501 (14.9%) survived. After multivariable adjustment, all BMI groups had similar rates of survival except underweight patients (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.54 to 0.82;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

For cardiac arrest caused by shockable rhythms, underweight, normal weight, and very obese patients had lower rates of survival to discharge. In contrast, for cardiac arrest caused by nonshockable rhythms, survival to discharge was similar across BMI groups except for underweight patients. Future studies are needed to clarify the extent to which BMI affects the quality and effectiveness of resuscitation measures.
“Every Woman Counts”: A Gender-Analysis of Numeracy in the Low Countries during the Early Modern Period
Authors: de Moor Tine , van Zanden Jan Luiten
Published: August 2010

New evidence from Flanders and the Netherlands demonstrates that age heaping was gradually diminishing in large parts of the Low Countries during the sixteenth century, that (unexpectedly) almost no gender gap was apparent in the change (women even outperforming men at times), and that differences between town and countryside were small. These findings suggest an early rise in numeracy (or at least a “number sense”) in both urban and rural areas, linked to demographic change and commercial development. Between 1600 and 1800, Flanders, in particular, seems to have lost its strong distinctiveness in this regard.
The Making of a Revolution?
Authors: Scott Hamish
Published: August 2010

Interpretations of England's Glorious Revolution of 1688–1689 fall into two categories. The first views the opposition to James II as a national movement—establishing English religious freedom and political liberty under the auspices of a parliamentary monarchy significantly different from the continental kingdoms in which absolutism held sway. The second posits an international conspiracy involving only a small minority of England's peerage and gentry and culminating in the invasion of William III, Dutch Stadtholder and eventual English king, who wanted to deploy British resources in the struggle against French power. Scholars have recently combined the two positions to form a composite interpretation. Pincus' 1688, however, sets out to overthrow almost every piece of this established picture and to substitute the interpretation emblazoned in his subtitle; 1688 was nothing less than “The First Modern Revolution.”
Towards New Rules on Disembarkation of Persons Rescued at Sea?
Authors: Coppens Jasmine , Somers Eduard
Published: August 2010

It is an international legal obligation for States to render assistance to persons in distress at sea. However, a comparable legally binding duty to disembark these rescued persons does not exist in the law of the sea. As a result, these persons—often migrants—can spend weeks on a ship at sea before a State allows them to go ashore. This article analyses the existing legal framework concerning disembarkation and evaluates the recent initiatives taken within the International Maritime Organization. Suggestions for future improvements are made.
EU Citizenship: Revisiting its Meaning, Place and Potential
Authors: de Waele Henri
Published: August 2010

This article takes a closer look at the legal framework on citizenship of the Union. In particular, it analyzes the amendments that took effect at the end of 2009, due to the entry into force of the Lisbon Treaty. Though at first sight, these seem to verge on the trivial, the present paper engages in detailed scrutiny, and hypothesizes that a more fundamental change may be perceived than is commonly acknowledged. It attempts to map the consequences of this supposed watershed with regard to both EU and third country nationals. Ultimately, it argues that the novel place attributed to the concept extends its reach further than ever before, and supplies it with a massive potential that the European Court of Justice is poised to exploit.
External morphology and systematics of the family Lobalgidae (Acari: Astigmata) with resolution of the question of family monophyly
Authors: OConnor Barry , Bochkov Andre
Published: August 2010

The monophyly of the family Lobalgidae comprising the genera Lobalges, Echimytricalges and Coendalges is tested using morphological characters and the maximum parsimony approach. Representatives of all subfamilies of the family Psoroptidae, the families Pyroglyphidae (Paralgopsis) and Psoroptoididae (Psoroptoides), and most families of the superfamily Sarcoptoidea were used as close outgroups, with Ptiloxenus (Ptiloxenidae) and Acarus (Acaridae) selected as distant outgroups. The analysis revealed polyphyly of the family: the two lobalgid genera Lobalges and Echimytricalges appear as sister groups, whereas the genus Coendalges is a member of a clade comprising genera of the psoroptid subfamily Psoralginae. The composition of the family Lobalgidae is here limited to these two genera, and the genus Coendalges is placed in the subfamily Psoralginae (Psoroptidae). A taxonomic revision of the family Lobalgidae is given, including descriptions of two new species, Echimytricalges lonchothrix sp.n. and E. proechimys sp.n. We also validate the species Echimytricalges whitakeri Fain and Ritzi, which had previously been a nomen nudum.
Richard J. Reed and Atmospheric Tides
Authors: Lindzen Richard S.
Published: August 2010

No Abstract available.
Characteristics of African Easterly Waves
Authors: Burpee Robert W.
Published: August 2010

No Abstract available.
Diachrony and AAE: St. Louis, Hip-Hop, and Sound Change outside of the Mainstream
Authors: Blake Renée , Shousterman Cara
Published: August 2010

In this article, the authors provide a diachronic analysis of the urr variable as it appears in African American English (AAE) spoken in St. Louis. While many believe that this linguistic feature is a product of hip-hop, invented recently for creative purposes, the authors provide linguistic evidence that shows it to be a prevalent feature of dialects of AAE spoken in St. Louis, Missouri, and East St. Louis, Illinois, at an earlier time. The authors suggest that the increase in vowel centralization that evolved in St. Louis is similar to that found in Memphis, Tennessee, along an s-curve pattern. Finally, the authors theorize about how the use of the urr variable by hip-hop artists correlates with its increased usage in present-day local communities. They employ notions of indexicality, meaning making, acts of identity, and accommodation to argue for linguistic convergence between St. Louis rappers and local communities. They argue that the increased usage and acceptance of vowel centralization in local communities is supported by hip-hop language as opposed to innovated through it.
Comparison of multi-year and reference year building simulations
Authors: Kershaw T. , Eames M. , Coley D.
Published: August 2010

Buildings are generally modelled for compliance using reference weather years. In the UK these are the test reference year (TRY) used for energy analysis and the design summer year (DSY) used for assessing overheating in the summer. These reference years currently exist for 14 locations around the UK and consist of either a composite year compiled of the most average months from 23 years worth of observed weather data (TRY) or a single contiguous year representing a hot but non-extreme summer (DSY). In this paper, we compare simulations run using the reference years and the results obtained from simulations using the base data sets from which these reference years were chosen. We compare the posterior statistic to the reference year for several buildings examining energy use, internal temperatures, overheating and thermal comfort. We find that while the reference years allow rapid thermal modelling of building designs they are not always representative of the average energy use (TRY) exposed by modelling with many weather years. Also they do not always give an accurate indication of the internal conditions within a building and as such can give a misleading representation of the risk of overheating (DSY). Practical applications: An understanding of the limitations of the current reference years is required to allow creation of updated reference years for building simulation of future buildings. By comparing the reference years to the base data sets of historical data from which they were compiled an understanding of the benefit of multiple simulations in determining risk can be obtained.
Ingroup Identification and Group-Level Narcissism as Predictors of U.S. Citizens’ Attitudes and Behavior Toward Arab Immigrants
Authors: Lyons Patricia A. , Kenworthy Jared B. , Popan Jason R.
Published: August 2010

In four studies, the authors explored factors contributing to negative attitudes and behavior toward Arab immigrants in the United States. In Study 1, Americans reported greater threat from Arabs, compared to other groups (e.g., Latino, Asian). In Study 2, they tested the effects of ingroup identification and group-level narcissism on attitudes toward Arab, Latino, Asian, and European immigrants. Identification interacted with group narcissism in predicting attitudes toward Arab (but not other) immigrants, such that identification predicted negative attitudes toward Arab immigrants only at mean and high levels of group narcissism. Study 3 explored the convergent and discriminant validity of the group narcissism construct. In Study 4, the authors added a behavioral dependent measure. Again, ingroup identification predicted negative behavior and attitudes toward an Arab immigrant group (but not comparison groups) only at mean and high levels of group narcissism. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Rehabilitation in practice: Hemispatial neglect: approaches to rehabilitation
Authors: Singh-Curry Victoria , Husain Masud
Published: August 2010

This series of articles for rehabilitation in practice aims to cover a knowledge element of the rehabilitation medicine curriculum. Nevertheless they are intended to be of interest to a multidisciplinary audience. The competency addressed in this article is ‘The trainee consistently demonstrates a knowledge of the pathophysiology of various specific impairments including cognitive dysfunction including perception’ and ‘management approaches for specific impairments including cognitive dysfunction including perception’. The article focuses on hemispatial neglect as a common and difficult to manage problem in clinical practice.
Serial polysomnography in hypnic headache
Authors: Holle Dagny , Wessendorf Thomas E , Zaremba Sebastian , Naegel Steffen , Diener Hans-Christoph , Katsarava Zaza , Gaul Charly , Obermann Mark
Published: August 2010

Background: Hypnic headache (HH) is a rare primary headache disorder characterized by strictly sleep-related headache attacks. Most patients are over the age of 50 and usually awake at the same time at night with dull bilateral head pain. The pathophysiology of this headache disorder is still enigmatic but association with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) has been suggested.

Methods: Six patients with HH according to the current International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD-II) criteria (code 4.5) were investigated. Serial polysomnography (PSG) was performed in each patient for four consecutive nights.

Results: A total of 22 HH attacks were recorded from all patients during PSG. Six of the monitored headache attacks arose from REM sleep; 16 attacks, however, arose from different non-REM (NREM) sleep stages. Five patients showed an increased apnoea/hypopnoea index (>5), indicating obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) on some but not the majority of nights. Headache onset and occurrence of SDB were not temporally connected.

Conclusions: This prospective study shows that the onset of HH was not associated with sleep stage. These results contradict the current belief that REM sleep and SDB play a crucial role in the pathophysiology of HH.