bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Community Forums to Enhance Public Engagement in Environmental Issues
Authors: Monroe Martha C. , Oxarart Annie , Mcdonell Lauren , Plate Richard
Published: November 2009

As environmental issues become more complex, the public may be less interested in becoming knowledgeable enough to participate in decisionmaking. Yet its input can be critically important in some community-based issues. A community forum is one tool designed to provide information, enable participants to ask questions to experts and create an open atmosphere for discussing an issue that requires relatively little investment from the participants. We used this tool to explore the issue of using wood to create electricity. Our results suggest that participants gained knowledge about the issue. As long as their concerns were addressed, nearly twice as many participants felt positive about such a proposed facility after the forum (81 per cent) than before (43 per cent, n = 108). Such activities could be successful strategies to engage the public in decision-making because they respect the real limits on time, attention and knowledge and enable people to participate at an appropriate scale. To reproduce this community forum, we suggest using credible but neutral experts, creating a nonjudgemental atmosphere, allowing people to ask their questions and sharing the results with elected officials.
Adherence to perceived norms across cultural boundaries: The role of need for cognitive closure and ingroup identification
Authors: Manchi Chao Melody , Zhang Zhi-Xue , Chiu Chi-yue
Published: November 2009

Need for closure (NFC) refers to the need for firm answers to reduce uncertainty. We propose that because cultural norms are closure providers, when rendering social judgments, individuals with higher NFC would be more likely to conform to the dominant norms. Furthermore, because ingroup identification increases the perceived contrast between ingroup and outgroup cultures and enhances the perceived consensual validity of the dominant cultural norms within a country, high ingroup identifiers with high NFC would adhere to their native cultural norm when managing situations in their own country; however, they would rely more on the dominant cultural norms in a foreign country when deciding how to respond in that country. Two studies provided consistent support to our hypotheses.
Waiting for Another Bhopal
Authors: Mac Sheoin Tomás
Published: November 2009

The Bhopal chemical disaster of 1984 added the issue of chemical plant safety to the variety of health and environmental harms already associated with the globalization of the production and use of toxic chemicals. This article describes the highlights of international and national responses to the Bhopal disaster by intergovernmental organizations, national regulatory authorities and transnational corporations. It suggests that these policy responses have not succeeded in preventing the continued occurrence of toxic chemical incidents that impact on the health, environment and livelihood of those affected. The article argues that attention needs to be paid to toxic chemical production and use in public health debates, nationally and at the global level.
Early Inflammatory Response in Patients With Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Wallinder Jonas , Skagius Elisabet , Bergqvist David , Henriksson Anders E.
Published: November 2009

Multiorgan failure is the main cause of death in patients operated for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (rAAA). The systemic inflammatory response plays a central role in the generation and maintenance of multiorgan dysfunction. The aim of the current study was to investigate the inflammatory response preoperatively in patients with ruptured and nonruptured AAA in relation to the clinical outcome. A total of 95 patients about to undergo repair of AAA (43 ruptured with shock, 12 ruptured without shock, and 40 elective) and 41 controls without aneurysm matched by age, gender, and smoking habits were investigated by inflammatory markers. There were significantly higher levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6; proinflammatory cytokine) and IL-10 (anti-inflammatory cytokine) in patients operated for ruptured compared to nonruptured AAA. In conclusion, the current data indicate that rupture of an AAA activates the inflammatory system with a compensatory anti-inflammatory response.
A Report of Spinal Cord Ischemia Following Endovascular Aneurysm Repair of an Aneurysm With a Large Thrombus Burden and Complex Iliac Anatomy
Authors: Lioupis Christos , Tyrrell Mark , Valenti Domenico
Published: November 2009

We report a case of paraplegia occurring after an elective endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) that was reversed by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage. This case report highlights the reality that the endovascular management of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) with large volumes of mural thrombus and complex iliac anatomy can be complicated by spinal cord ischemia (SCI). The presumed mechanism of SCI is dissemination of atherosclerotic material during protracted catheter and wire manipulations. Embolization of internal iliac arteries (IIAs), profunda femoral arteries, and possibly other arterial networks may explain the delayed presentation. The complex iliac anatomy necessitating covering of one and reconstruction of the other hypogastric artery and the prolonged operative time may be 2 other contributing factors. The prompt CSF drainage may reverse the neurologic deficit.
Thoracic Aortic Transection Treated by Thoracic Endovascular Aortic Repair: Predictors of Survival
Authors: Ryan Mark , Valazquez Omaida , Martinez Eduardo , Patel Sheela , Parodi Juan , Karmacharya Jagajan
Published: November 2009

Background: We reviewed all patients presenting to our institution with a traumatic thoracic aortic injury (TTAI) between January 2006 and May 2007. Age, gender, injury severity score (ISS), location of injuries, surgical intervention, and length of stay were assessed to determine what characteristics might be predictive of survival. Of the 56 patients who were identified, 23 (41%) were dead on arrival, 15 (20%) died on that admission, and 18 (32%) survived to discharge. Injury severity score was elevated in mortalities (57) compared to survivors (34). Penetrating and blunt aortic injuries had 89% and 58% mortality rates, respectively. Female gender was associated with increased survival (P = .032), as was receiving surgical intervention (P = .03). Patients with a prolonged ICU stay demonstrated increased survival. All eight patients who received thoracic endovascular aortic repair survived to discharge. Injury severity score, mechanism, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR), female gender, and surgical treatment were associated with survival after TTAI.
Importance of surface activation for nitrided layer formation on austenitic stainless steel
Authors: Baranowska J.
Published: November 2009

Gas nitriding of austenitic steel is only possible if the passive oxide layer is removed. Therefore, surface activation forms an important part of the treatment. The main objective of the present study was to investigate the influence of activation on nitrided layer's growth. Various activation treatment methods have been applied – physical (ion sputtering with various current–voltage parameters and gases) and chemical ones (phosphating and chemical etching). The effectiveness of activation has been evaluated after gas nitriding in different conditions of atmosphere composition. The layers have been investigated using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and grazing angle X-ray diffraction, magnetic and atomic force microscopy, electron probe microanalysis. Physical activation turned out to be the most effective method. At the same time, it made it possible to reduce the quantity of ammonia in nitriding atmosphere necessary to obtain layers composed of ‘expanded austenite'. Moreover, depending on the sputtering parameters and the gas used, it was possible to obtain layers with various kinds of morphology.
Distinct population of highly malignant cells in a head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cell line established by xenograft model
Authors: Chen Chi-Yuan , Chiou Shih-Hwa , Huang Chih-Yang , Jan Chia-Ing , Lin Shu-Chun , Tsai Ming-Long , Lo Jeng-Fan
Published: November 2009

The progression and metastasis of solid tumors, including head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), have been related to the behavior of a small subpopulation of cancer stem cells. Here, we have established a highly malignant HNSCC cell line, SASVO3, from primary tumors using three sequential rounds of xenotransplantation. SASVO3 possesses enhanced tumorigenic ability both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, SASVO3 exhibits properties of cancer stem cells, including that increased the abilities of sphere-forming, the number of side population cells, the potential of transplanted tumor growth and elevated expression of the stem cell marker Bmi1. Injection of SASVO3 into the tail vein of nude mice resulted in lung metastases. These results are consistent with the postulate that the malignant and/or metastasis potential of HNSCC cells may reside in a stem-like subpopulation.
Disparate oxidant gene expression of airway epithelium compared to alveolar macrophages in smokers
Authors: Carolan Brendan J , Harvey Ben-Gary , Hackett Neil R , O'Connor Timothy P , Cassano Patricia A , Crystal Ronald G
Published: November 2009

Background

The small airway epithelium and alveolar macrophages are exposed to oxidants in cigarette smoke leading to epithelial dysfunction and macrophage activation. In this context, we asked: what is the transcriptome of oxidant-related genes in small airway epithelium and alveolar macrophages, and does their response differ substantially to inhaled cigarette smoke?

Methods

Using microarray analysis, with TaqMan RT-PCR confirmation, we assessed oxidant-related gene expression in small airway epithelium and alveolar macrophages from the same healthy nonsmoker and smoker individuals.

Results

Of 155 genes surveyed, 87 (56%) were expressed in both cell populations in nonsmokers, with higher expression in alveolar macrophages (43%) compared to airway epithelium (24%). In smokers, there were 15 genes (10%) up-regulated and 7 genes (5%) down-regulated in airway epithelium, but only 3 (2%) up-regulated and 2 (1%) down-regulated in alveolar macrophages. Pathway analysis of airway epithelium showed oxidant pathways dominated, but in alveolar macrophages immune pathways dominated.

Conclusion

Thus, the response of different cell-types with an identical genome exposed to the same stress of smoking is different; responses of alveolar macrophages are more subdued than those of airway epithelium. These findings are consistent with the observation that, while the small airway epithelium is vulnerable, alveolar macrophages are not "diseased" in response to smoking.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT00224185 and NCT00224198
Reverse genetics through random mutagenesis in Histoplasma capsulatum
Authors: Youseff Brian H , Dougherty Julie A , Rappleye Chad A
Published: November 2009

Background

The dimorphic fungal pathogen Histoplasma capsulatum causes respiratory and systemic disease in humans and other mammals. Progress in understanding the mechanisms underlying the biology and the pathogenesis of Histoplasma has been hindered by a shortage of methodologies for mutating a gene of interest.

Results

We describe a reverse genetics process that combines the random mutagenesis of Agrobacterium-mediated transformation with screening techniques to identify targeted gene disruptions in a collection of insertion mutants. Isolation of the desired mutant is accomplished by arraying individual clones from a pool and employing a PCR-addressing method. Application of this procedure facilitated the isolation of a cbp1 mutant in a North American type 2 strain, a Histoplasma strain recalcitrant to gene knock-outs through homologous recombination. Optimization of cryopreservation conditions allows pools of mutants to be banked for later analysis and recovery of targeted mutants.

Conclusion

This methodology improves our ability to isolate mutants in targeted genes, thereby facilitating the molecular genetic analysis of Histoplasma biology. The procedures described are widely applicable to many fungal systems and will be of particular interest to those for which homologous recombination techniques are inefficient or do not currently exist.
Comparative analysis of the complete sequence of the plastid genome of Parthenium argentatum and identification of DNA barcodes to differentiate Parthenium species and lines
Authors: Kumar Shashi , Hahn Frederick M , McMahan Colleen M , Cornish Katrina , Whalen Maureen C
Published: November 2009

Background

Parthenium argentatum (guayule) is an industrial crop that produces latex, which was recently commercialized as a source of latex rubber safe for people with Type I latex allergy. The complete plastid genome of P. argentatum was sequenced. The sequence provides important information useful for genetic engineering strategies. Comparison to the sequences of plastid genomes from three other members of the Asteraceae, Lactuca sativa, Guitozia abyssinica and Helianthus annuus revealed details of the evolution of the four genomes. Chloroplast-specific DNA barcodes were developed for identification of Parthenium species and lines.

Results

The complete plastid genome of P. argentatum is 152,803 bp. Based on the overall comparison of individual protein coding genes with those in L. sativa, G. abyssinica and H. annuus, we demonstrate that the P. argentatum chloroplast genome sequence is most closely related to that of H. annuus. Similar to chloroplast genomes in G. abyssinica, L. sativa and H. annuus, the plastid genome of P. argentatum has a large 23 kb inversion with a smaller 3.4 kb inversion, within the large inversion. Using the matK and psbA-trnH spacer chloroplast DNA barcodes, three of the four Parthenium species tested, P. tomentosum, P. hysterophorus and P. schottii, can be differentiated from P. argentatum. In addition, we identified lines within P. argentatum.

Conclusion

The genome sequence of the P. argentatum chloroplast will enrich the sequence resources of plastid genomes in commercial crops. The availability of the complete plastid genome sequence may facilitate transformation efficiency by using the precise sequence of endogenous flanking sequences and regulatory elements in chloroplast transformation vectors. The DNA barcoding study forms the foundation for genetic identification of commercially significant lines of P. argentatum that are important for producing latex.
DNA-AP sites generation by Etoposide in whole blood cells
Authors: Rojas Emilio , Mussali Patricia , Tovar Efrain , Valverde Mahara
Published: November 2009

Background

Etoposide is currently one of the most commonly used antitumor drugs. The mechanisms of action proposed for its antitumor activity are based mainly on its interaction with topoisomerase II. Etoposide effects in transformed cells have been described previously. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the genotoxic effects of this drug in non-transformed whole blood cells, such as occurs as collateral damage induced by some chemotherapies.

Methods

To determine etoposide genotoxicity, we employed Comet assay in two alkaline versions. To evaluate single strand breaks and delay repair sites we use pH 12.3 conditions and pH >13 to evidence alkali labile sites. With the purpose to quantified apurinic or apyrimidine (AP) sites we employed a specific restriction enzyme. Etoposide effects were determined on whole blood cells cultured in absence or presence of phytohemagglutinin (PHA) treated during 2 and 24 hours of cultured.

Results

Alkaline (pH > 13) single cell gel electrophoresis (SCGE) assay experiments revealed etoposide-induced increases in DNA damage in phytohemaglutinine (PHA)-stimulated blood and non-stimulated blood cells. When the assay was performed at a less alkaline pH, 12.3, we observed DNA damage in PHA-stimulated blood cells consistent with the existence of alkali labile sites (ALSs). In an effort to elucidate the molecular events underlying this result, we applied exonuclease III (Exo III) in conjunction with a SCGE assay, enabling detection of DNA-AP sites along the genome. More DNA AP-sites were revealed by Exo III and ALSs were recognized by the SCGE assay only in the non-stimulated blood cells treated with etoposide.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that etoposide induces DNA damage specifically at DNA-AP sites in quiescent blood cells. This effect could be involved in the development of secondary malignancies associated with etoposide chemotherapy.
Mutagenicity of Chinese traditional medicine Semen Armeniacae amarum by two modified Ames tests
Authors: Jin Jianling , Liu Bo , Zhang Hui , Tian Xiao , Cai Yupin , Gao Peiji
Published: November 2009

Background

Semen armeniacae amarum (SAA) is a Chinese traditional medicine and has long been used to control acute lower respiratory tract infection and asthma, as a result of its expectorant and antiasthmatic activities. However, its mutagenicity in vitro and in vivo has not yet been reported. The Ames test for mutagenicity is used worldwide. The histidine contained in biological samples can induce histidine-deficient cells to replicate, which results in more his
+ colonies than in negative control cells, therefore false-positive results may be obtained. So, it becomes a prerequisite to exclude the effects of any residual histidine from samples when they are assayed for their mutagenicity. Chinese traditional herbs, such as SAA, are histidine-containing biological sample, need modified Ames tests to assay their in vitro mutagenicity.

Methods

The mutagenicity of SAA was evaluated by the standard and two modified Ames tests. The first modification used the plate incorporation test same as standard Ames teat, but with new negative control systems, in which different amounts of histidine corresponding to different concentrations of SAA was incorporated. When the number of his+ revertants in SAA experiments was compared with that in new negative control, the effect of histidine contained in SAA could be eliminated. The second modification used a liquid suspension test similar to the standard Ames test, except with histidine-rich instead of histidine-limited medium. The aim of this change was to conceal the effect of histidine contained in SAA on the final counting of his
+ revertants, and therefore to exclude false-positive results of SAA in the Ames test. Furthermore, the effect of SAA on chromosomal aberration in mammalian bone marrow cells was tested.

Results

The standard Ames test showed a positive result for mutagenicity of SAA. In contrast, a negative response was obtained with the modified plate incorporation and modified suspension Ames tests. Moreover, no apparent chromosomal aberrations were observed in mammalian bone marrow cells treated with SAA.

Conclusion

The standard Ames test was not suitable for evaluating the mutagenicity of SAA, because false-positive result could be resulted by the histidine content in SAA. However, the two modified Ames tests were suitable, because the experimental results proved that the effect of histidine in SAA and therefore the false-positive result were effectively excluded in these two modified Ames tests. This conclusion needs more experimental data to support in the future. Moreover, the experimental results illustrated that SAA had no mutagenicity in vitro and in vivo. This was in agreement with the clinical safety of SAA long-term used in China.
P38 MAP Kinase inhibition promotes primary tumour growth via VEGF independent mechanism
Authors: O'Sullivan Adrian W , Wang Jiang H , Redmond Henry P
Published: November 2009

Background

The surgical insult induces an inflammatory response that activates P38 MAP kinases and solid tumours can also release cytokines. Therfore inhibition of these pathways may reduce tumour growth We set out to examine the effects of P38-MAPK inhibition on apoptosis, proliferation, VEGF release and cell cycle effects in-vitro and on primary tumour growth in-vivo.

Methods

4T-1 cells (2 × 105cells/well) were incubated, in 24 well plates with control, 25, 50 or 100 ng/ml of SB-202190 for 24 hours. Cells were subsequently asessed for apoptosis, proliferation, VEGF release and cell cycle analysis. Balb-c mice each received 1 × 106 4T1 cells subcutaneously in the flank and were then randomised to receive control or SB202190 (2.5 μM/kg) by intraperitoneal injection daily. Tumour size was measured alternate days and at day 24 animals were sacrificed and serum VEGF assessed.

Results

P38-MAPK inhibition in-vitro resulted in a significant reduction in proliferation (75.2 ± 8.4% vs. 100 ± 4.3%, p < 0.05) and G1 cell cycle phase(35.9 ± 1.1% vs. 32.5 ± 0.6%, p < 0.05) but no significant changes in apoptosis or VEGF levels. In-vivo, P38-MAPK inhibition resulted in an increase in primary tumour growth (155.6 ± 34.9 vs. 86.7 ± 18.2 mm3, p < 0.05). P38-MAPK inhibition also lowered circulating VEGF levels but this difference was not significant (101.9 ± 27.1 ηg/ml compared to 158.6 ± 27.1 ηg/ml)

Conclusion

These findings demonstrate that P38-MAPK inhibition in-vitro reduces proliferation and G1 cell cycle phase as well as promoting primary tumour growth in-vivo. These effects would appear to be independent of VEGF.
Treatment of pathologic spinal fractures with combined radiofrequency ablation and balloon kyphoplasty
Authors: Katonis Pavlos , Pasku Dritan , Alpantaki Kalliopi , Bano Artan , Tzanakakis George , Karantanas Apostolos
Published: November 2009

Background

In oncologic patients with metastatic spinal disease, the ideal treatment should be well tolerated, relieve the pain, and preserve or restore the neurological function.

The combination of fluoroscopic guided radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and kyphoplasty may fulfill these criteria.

Methods

We describe three pathological vertebral fractures treated with a combination of fluoroscopic guided RFA and kyphoplasty in one session: a 62-year-old man suffering from a painful L4 pathological fracture due to a plasmocytoma, a 68-year-old man with a T12 pathological fracture from metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma, and a 71-year-old man with a Th12 and L1 pathological fracture from multiple myeloma.

Results

The choice of patients was carried out according to the classification of Tomita. Visual analog score (VAS) and Oswestry disability index (ODI) were used for the evaluation of the functional outcomes. The treatment was successful in all patients and no complications were reported. The mean follow-up was 6 months. Marked pain relief and functional restoration was observed.

Conclusion

In our experience the treatment of pathologic spinal fractures with combined radiofrequency ablation and balloon kyphoplasty is safe and effective for immediate pain relief in painful spinal lesions in neurologically intact patients.
Evidence for a novel gene associated with human influenza A viruses
Authors: Clifford Monica , Twigg James , Upton Chris
Published: November 2009

Background

Influenza A virus genomes are comprised of 8 negative strand single-stranded RNA segments and are thought to encode 11 proteins, which are all translated from mRNAs complementary to the genomic strands. Although human, swine and avian influenza A viruses are very similar, cross-species infections are usually limited. However, antigenic differences are considerable and when viruses become established in a different host or if novel viruses are created by re-assortment devastating pandemics may arise.

Results

Examination of influenza A virus genomes from the early 20th Century revealed the association of a 167 codon ORF encoded by the genomic strand of segment 8 with human isolates. Close to the timing of the 1948 pseudopandemic, a mutation occurred that resulted in the extension of this ORF to 216 codons. Since 1948, this ORF has been almost totally maintained in human influenza A viruses suggesting a selectable biological function. The discovery of cytotoxic T cells responding to an epitope encoded by this ORF suggests that it is translated into protein. Evidence of several other non-traditionally translated polypeptides in influenza A virus support the translation of this genomic strand ORF. The gene product is predicted to have a signal sequence and two transmembrane domains.

Conclusion

We hypothesize that the genomic strand of segment 8 of encodes a novel influenza A virus protein. The persistence and conservation of this genomic strand ORF for almost a century in human influenza A viruses provides strong evidence that it is translated into a polypeptide that enhances viral fitness in the human host. This has important consequences for the interpretation of experiments that utilize mutations in the NS1 and NEP genes of segment 8 and also for the consideration of events that may alter the spread and/or pathogenesis of swine and avian influenza A viruses in the human population.
Commercial activities and subsistence utilization of mangrove forests around the Wouri estuary and the Douala-Edea reserve (Cameroon)
Authors: Atheull Adolphe Nfotabong , Din Ndongo , Longonje Simon N , Koedam Nico , Dahdouh-Guebas Farid
Published: November 2009

Background

Worldwide there is growing research interest in the ethnobiology of mangrove forests. Notwithstanding that, little information has been published about ethnobiology of mangrove forests in Cameroon. The aims of this study were a) to analyze the harvesting methods and the local selling of mangrove wood products by loggers in the vicinity of Wouri estuary and b) to investigate the patterns of subsistence uses of mangrove wood products around the Douala-Edea reserve.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 120 active mangrove loggers in 23 Douala wood markets and 103 households located in three villages (Mbiako, Yoyo I and Yoyo II) close to Douala-Edea reserve. In each of the three densely populated villages, every second household was chosen for sampling while in all markets, mangrove loggers were chosen randomly. In addition, log diameters were measured in each market using a wooden foldable tape measure. A post hoc analysis (Newman-Keuls test) was performed in order to detect the common wood class diameter sold in the Douala wood markets.

Results

The analysis of the loggers' survey data has shown that large logs of Rhizophora with diameter greater than 40 cm were common in the Douala wood markets and were more closely associated with loggers who used chainsaws. In addition to the general mangroves wood products selling, the analysis on a subsistence level (households' survey) suggests the local population's dependence on mangroves, with multiple uses of Rhizophora racemosa Meyer, R. harrisonii Leechman, Avicennia germinans L. Stearn., Laguncularia racemosa Gaertn. f. and Conocarpus erectus L. timbers for furniture, fences, smoking fish, and fuelwood. Finally, Nypa fruticans (Thunb.) Wurmb. leaves were used as thatching material for house walls and roofs.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that big logs of Rhizophora were commonly sold by the loggers. A majority of loggers (60%) reported that mangrove marketed wood constitute a principal source of income. Most of the villagers (85.83%) often depend on mangroves for subsistence needs and for them there is no substitute for mangrove wood. Therefore, more efforts should be undertaken at the national level to implement conservation, management and sustainable use of these coastal forests.
Linear model for fast background subtraction in oligonucleotide microarrays
Authors: Kroll K Myriam , Barkema Gerard T , Carlon Enrico
Published: November 2009

Background

One important preprocessing step in the analysis of microarray data is background subtraction. In high-density oligonucleotide arrays this is recognized as a crucial step for the global performance of the data analysis from raw intensities to expression values.

Results

We propose here an algorithm for background estimation based on a model in which the cost function is quadratic in a set of fitting parameters such that minimization can be performed through linear algebra. The model incorporates two effects: 1) Correlated intensities between neighboring features in the chip and 2) sequence-dependent affinities for non-specific hybridization fitted by an extended nearest-neighbor model.

Conclusion

The algorithm has been tested on 360 GeneChips from publicly available data of recent expression experiments. The algorithm is fast and accurate. Strong correlations between the fitted values for different experiments as well as between the free-energy parameters and their counterparts in aqueous solution indicate that the model captures a significant part of the underlying physical chemistry.
Phase II Study of Carboplatin, Paclitaxel, and Bevacizumab With Maintenance Bevacizumab As First-Line Chemotherapy for Advanced Müllerian Tumors
Authors: Penson Richard T. , Dizon Don S. , Cannistra Stephen A. , Roche Maria R. , Krasner Carolyn N. , Berlin Suzanne T. , Horowitz Neil S. , DiSilvestro Paul A. , Matulonis Ursula A. , Lee Hang , King Modjulie A. , Campos Susana M.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

New strategies are needed to improve outcomes for patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Bevacizumab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that neutralizes vascular endothelial growth factor but is associated with GI perforations (GIPs) in patients with recurrent disease.

Patients and Methods

An open-label, phase II clinical trial was conducted in newly diagnosed patients with stage ≥ IC epithelial müllerian tumors. Patients received intravenous (IV) carboplatin (area under the curve = 5), paclitaxel (175 mg/m2 IV), and bevacizumab (15 mg/kg IV) for six to eight cycles on day 1 every 21 days. Bevacizumab was omitted in the first cycle and continued as a single agent for 1 year.

Results

Sixty-two women participated in this study. Fifty-one patients (82%) were optimally surgically cytoreduced before treatment. The median age was 58 years (range, 18 to 77 years). Forty-five women (73%) had ovarian cancer, 10 (16%) had peritoneal cancer, four (6%) had fallopian tube cancers, and three (5%) had uterine papillary serous tumors. The majority of patients (90%) had stage III or IV disease. A median of 17 maintenance cycles (range, 0 to 25+ cycles) of bevacizumab (556 cycles) were administered with mild toxicity. Treatment was associated with two pulmonary embolisms and two GIPs, all occurring during the chemotherapy phase of treatment (364 total cycles). No grade 4 toxicities were seen during maintenance bevacizumab treatment. Radiographic responses were documented in 21 (75%) of 28 women with measurable disease (11 complete responses and 10 partial responses), with CA-125 responses in 76% of patients (11 complete responses, 21%; and 35 partial responses, 55%). The progression-free survival rate at 36 months was 58%.

Conclusion

The regimen of carboplatin, paclitaxel, and bevacizumab with maintenance bevacizumab is feasible, safe, and worthy of future study in advanced ovarian cancer.
β-Tubulin-II Expression Strongly Predicts Outcome in Patients Receiving Induction Chemotherapy for Locally Advanced Squamous Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: A Companion Analysis of the TAX 324 Trial
Authors: Cullen Kevin J. , Schumaker Lisa , Nikitakis Nikolaos , Goloubeva Olga , Tan Ming , Sarlis Nicholas J. , Haddad Robert I. , Posner Marshall R.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

TAX 324 was a phase III trial comparing induction chemotherapy (IC) with docetaxel, cisplatin, and fluorouracil (TPF) with cisplatin and fluorouracil (PF) followed by concomitant chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced squamous cell cancer of the head and neck (LASCCHN). This study evaluates a series of tumor markers in pretreatment biopsies from that trial TAX 324 and correlates expression with survival.

Methods

Pretherapy biopsy specimens were available for 265 of 501 participants. Expression of a series of six markers (p53, thymidylate synthase, glutathione s-transferase pi [GST-π], Bcl 2, beta tubulin II [βT-2], and HER2 neu) was evaluated by immunohistochemistry.

Results

For patients with low βT-II expression, median overall survival (OS) was 58.6 months (95% CI, not reached [NR]), compared with 18.2 months for patients with high βT-II expression (95% CI, 13.11 to 30.06: hazard ratio [HR], 2.39; 95% CI, 1.67 to 3.72; P < .0001). Progression-free survival in patients with low βT-II expression was 43.2 months (95% CI, 24.4 to NR) versus 9.8 months (95% CI, 7.06 to 18.53) for high βT-II expression, with a HR of 1.9 (95% CI, 1.43 to 2.77; P < .0001). The predictive value of βT-II expression was greater in the TPF versus PF arm than in the PF arm.

Conclusion

Increased tumor expression of βT-II is strongly associated with adverse outcome in LASCCHN patients treated with IC, and our data suggest low expression of βT-II may predict patients most likely to benefit from induction TPF therapy. Further, simple models which combine expression of βT-II with a carefully defined set of additional immunohistochemical markers may have significant prognostic impact for patients with LASCCHN.
Experiencing bad treatment: qualitative study of patient complaints concerning their treatment by public health-care practitioners in the County of Stockholm
Authors: Wessel M , Helgesson G , Lynöe N
Published: November 2009

The aim of this study was to investigate patients' experiences of not being treated well in medical health care in Stockholm County, Sweden. The study was conducted by implementing qualitative content analysis using categorization of empirical material for 2006 and 2007 provided by the Patients' Advisory Committee ( Patientnämnden) in Stockholm. Complaints about not being treated well accounted for 13% of all complaints to the Patients' Advisory Committee. A sample of those who complained about their medical treatment shows that about 30% of these complaints also involved experiences of being badly received. Categorization of the complaints about being badly treated resulted in the following 11 categories: (1) rude, aggressive or arrogant behaviour; (2) being ignored; (3) being denied examinations or treatments; (4) lack of empathy among personnel; (5) lack of respect for personal integrity; (6) lack of time/waiting time; (7) personnel not separating private issues from their professional role; (8) injustice and discrimination; (9) sexual harassment; (10) coercion and violence and (11) unspecified bad treatment. In relation to the total number of patients, women were over-represented in all categories. In conclusion, what patients react most strongly against is when health-care personnel treat them disrespectfully by not abiding by established social norms. The results indicate that the combination of failure in medical treatment and not receiving an apology often leads patients to complain to the Patients' Advisory Committee.
The Age and Qualifications of Special Education Staff in Australia
Authors: Thomas Tony
Published: November 2009

This article reports on the results of a survey distributed in April 2007 to government special education schools and settings throughout Australia. The survey collected information about the age and special education qualifications of teaching staff. It followed a similar survey that was distributed in May 2006 to Victorian special schools that found that 44.9% of teachers and principals were aged 50 years or more, and 68.9% had a special education qualification. In the current survey, the percentage of principals and teachers aged 50 years or more in the responding schools ranged from 37.5% in New South Wales to 51.0% in the Australian Capital Territory. The percentage of special education qualified staff varied from 53.1% in the Australian Capital Territory to 86.6% in Western Australia. These results are examined in further detail and possible implications discussed.
Unfulfilled promises: Ottomanism, the 1908 revolution and Baghdadi Jews
Authors: Sciarcon Jonathan
Published: November 2009

This article explores the ways in which the Young Turk Revolution of 1908 influenced Baghdadi-Jewish political identity in late Ottoman Iraq. The main argument put forth is that Baghdadi-Jews' positive attitudes towards the British conquerors in 1917, whose victory marked the end of
Ottoman rule over Baghdad, can be attributed to unmet political expectations dating back to the 1908 revolution and not to the economic motives of the relatively tiny business elite. Jewish cooperation with the British caused resentment among non-Jews, especially Sunni Muslims, leading to
an eventual deterioration of Muslim-Jewish relations in Iraq as the Arab-Zionist conflict played out in Palestine. Thus, the ideas and events that immediately followed the Young Turk Revolution profoundly affected the Jewish community well into the 1940s and, one could argue, continue to haunt
the community's now displaced, aging members.
Carrot or stick? Ottoman tribal policy in Baghdad, 18311876
Authors: Ceylan Ebubekir
Published: November 2009

This article analyzes Ottoman politics of tribe in the province of Baghdad during the nineteenth century, a period in which the tribal organizations began to be incorporated into the modern state mechanisms. It aims to explore the place of the state with particular emphasis on diverse
forms of appropriation of political power and centreperiphery nexus with the context of tribal structure in Ottoman Iraq. The Ottoman centralization in Iraq aimed to de-construct the tribal structure of the country, because the strong tribal organization was considered as the most significant
obstacle for the implementation of the reforms. The policies followed by Ottoman governors against the Iraqi tribes can be summarized as carrot or stick game and they varied considerably from granting favours to certain tribes, creating inter-tribal frictions, recognizing a rival chieftain
within a given tribe, the use of military force, incorporation of the tribal structures into the provincial political mechanism, and settlement of the tribal confederations. The stick, in other words, the use of military force came usually when all other methods of politics of tribe failed.
Arab nationalist pioneers in Mosul
Authors: Al-Jamil Sayyar K.A
Published: November 2009

This article explores the roots of the Arab Nationalist movement in Mosul at the beginning of twentieth century from the perspective of indigenous sources of change. It surveys the work of several Mosuli intellectuals using numerous primary sources including published and unpublished
biographical material, chronicles, memories, old newspapers and documents. The article points to how the sense of localism and Ottomanism among the elite was transformed to one of Arab and then Iraqi nationalism.
Identity and difference in the work of Sunni historians of eighteenth and nineteenth century Iraq
Authors: Fattah Hala
Published: November 2009

This article looks into how and why depictions of region, borders, identity and nation change in the writing of Iraqi scholars in the late Ottoman period. Another aim of this article is to critique the notion that divisions between Sunna and Shi'a, Turks and Persians, and Arabs and
Kurds were rigidly set in stone. This article argues that as socioeconomic and political situations changed, feelings of resentment, antagonism and disenfranchisement rose correspondingly. However, these feelings also tended to subside or change when the situations that allowed them to emerge
in the first place changed as well, so that, at the end of the day, those innate prejudices can be seen as nothing more than momentary lapses, dynamically introduced under SPECIFIC conditions that do NOT become universal over time.
A fluorescence correlation spectroscopy study of ligand interaction with cytokinin-specific binding protein from mung bean
Authors: Zawadzki Paweł , Ślósarek Genowefa , Boryski Jerzy , Wojtaszek Przemysław
Published: November 2009

Cytokinins are essential plant hormones that regulate numerous physiological processes. Recently, a protein was identified in mung bean (Vigna radiata) and characterized as a cytokinin-specific binding protein (VrCSBP). Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy was used to investigate the interaction between VrCSBP and its ligands. The synthetic cytokinin, N-phenyl-N′-(4-pyridyl) urea, was labeled with two fluorophores, 7-nitro-2,1,3-benzoxadiazole and rhodamine B. Protein-ligand binding was analyzed in an equilibrium saturation binding experiment and confirmed by the competition assay. Surprisingly, it was found that VrCSBP binds not only to cytokinins, but also to gibberellins. In addition, in the presence of natural cytokinins and gibberellins, two populations of VrCSBP that differ in their diffusion coefficients were detected. The diffusion coefficients of these two populations could be related to mono- and dimeric states, which suggests a new mode of operation in ligand binding by VrCSBP, in which dimerization induced by natural ligands enhances the ligand binding capacity of the protein.
Potential role of multiple members of the kallikrein-related peptidase family of serine proteases in activating latent TGFβ1 in semen
Authors: Emami Nashmil , Diamandis Eleftherios P.
Published: November 2009

Transforming growth factor β1 (TGFβ1) has been implicated as a key contributor of immunosuppression in seminal plasma. The biochemical mechanisms that lead to production of active seminal TGFβ1 are not fully understood. It is plausible that TGFβ1 activation is partly induced simultaneously with the release of motile spermatozoa following liquefaction of the semen coagulum. Several members of the kallikrein-related peptidase (KLK) family are involved in the regulation of semen liquefaction. This study examines the involvement of these KLKs in TGFβ1 activationin vitroandex vivo, in seminal plasma. Latent TGFβ1 was rapidly activated by KLK14. The latency-associated propeptide (LAP) was shown to be cleaved by KLK14 into small peptide fragments, providing a possible mechanism for TGFβ1 activation. KLK14 also cleaved the latent TGFβ binding protein 1 (LTBP1). KLK1, 2, and 5 might also contribute to TGFβ1 activation by nicking the LAP motif and inducing conformational changes that aid in subsequent processing of LAP or through LTBP1 cleavage. Our study provides strong evidence for the involvement of multiple members of the seminal KLK cascade in activation of latent TGFβ1 in seminal plasma. These findings might have clinical implications in infertility treatment of cases with concurrent delayed liquefaction and TGFβ1-related semen antigenicity.
Dexamethasone-dependent versus -independent markers of epithelial to mesenchymal transition in primary hepatocytes
Authors: Godoy Patricio , Lakkapamu Sumathi , Schug Markus , Bauer Alexander , Stewart Joanna D. , Bedawi Essam , Hammad Seddik , Amin Jakia , Marchan Rosemarie , Schormann Wiebke , Maccoux Lindsey , Recklinghausen Iris von , Reif Raymond , Hengstler Jan G.
Published: November 2009

Recently, epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) has been shown to represent a feature of dedifferentiating hepatocytes in vitro. Three-dimensional soft collagen gels can antagonize but not completely abolish this effect. Hormonal additives to culture media are known to maintain differentiated hepatocyte functions. Therefore, we studied whether insulin and dexamethasone antagonize EMT in cultured hepatocytes. Both hormones antagonized but not completely abolished certain morphological features of EMT. Dexamethasone antagonized acquisition of fibroblastoid shape, whereas insulin favored bile canaliculi formation. In a subsequent step, we analyzed expression of a battery of EMT-related genes. Of all markers tested, vimentin and snail-1 correlated best with morphological features of EMT. Interestingly, dexamethasone reduced expression levels of both vimentin and snail-1, whereas the influence of insulin was less pronounced. An important result of this study is that 12 out of 17 analyzed EMT markers were transcriptionally influenced by dexamethasone (vimentin, snail-1, snail-2, HNF4α, Twist-1, ZEB2, fibronectin, occludin, MMP14, claudin-1, cytokeratin-8, and cytokeratin-18), whereas the remaining factors seemed to be less dependent on dexamethasone. In conclusion, EMT markers in hepatocytes can be classified as dexamethasone-dependent versus -independent.
Predicting Dynamic Segregation of Self-Consolidating Concrete from the Slump-Flow Test
Authors: Tregger Nathan , Ferrara Liberato , Shah Surendra
Published: November 2009

Two key characteristics of self-consolidating concrete are flowability and segregation resistance. Quality control of flowability is typically predicted by the final diameter of the slump-flow test. In this paper, experimental results demonstrate that dynamic segregation of a self-consolidating concrete mix can also be predicted from the slump-flow test by measuring the time it takes for the flow to reach its final diameter. For a constant final diameter and aggregate content, increasing the time to final diameter led to a more stable mix. Two sets of slump-flow and segregation data were obtained for flow diameters of 65 and 70 cm, both with constant water-to-binder and aggregate-to-binder ratios. Dynamic segregation was determined by comparing the aggregate content in three regions: Within the diameter of the slump cone, between the diameter of the cone and a diameter of 50 cm, and between a diameter of 50 cm and the final diameter. In addition, the rapid penetration test was used to compare dynamic and static segregation characteristics.
Preparing Taiwanese Students for Insurance Industry Jobs: Curriculum Reform and Evaluation
Authors: Fan Chiang-Ku , Wu Cheng-Ru
Published: November 2009

Given the environment of the recent financial tsunami and a slowdown in global economy, to meet long-term hiring needs, insurance companies hope to recruit highly qualified graduates who do not require extensive and expensive training. On the other hand, the departments of risk management and insurance (DRMI) in universities must engage in improving their curricular to better equip and enhance their students’ employability. Therefore, both the human resources management in life insurance companies and curricular designers in the DRMI need an effective evaluation method to provide an accurate solution in problems of employee selection and curricular design. This paper proposes a curriculum performance evaluation method combining the analytical hierarchy process and Grey relational analysis. Using this evaluation method enables the human resources managers in life insurance companies to identify which university designs the most appropriated curriculum that can educate students to become the talented, skilled, and well-prepared labor force to satisfy hiring needs. Moreover, to explore the outcome of this evaluation, the DRMI can accordingly improve their curricular.
Mithridates II and Antiochos Hierax
Authors: Petković Žarko
Published: November 2009

The explanation of the Pontic policy of Mithridates II as offered in our scanty sources is hardly satisfactory. After the battle of Ankyra (240–239 BC), Mithridates’ position appeared ambiguous to modern and ancient authors alike (Section I–II). A revision of all the evidence would be welcome. If the chronology proposed here is correct (notably, it puts the date of the Pontic attack on Sinope at c. 228 BC instead of the widely accepted 220 BC), the aggressive policy of Mithridates in Asia Minor can be revised. The siege of Sinope should not be understood as an isolated episode in the endless Anatolian warfare; it was part of a premeditated policy which well accorded with the ambitious schemes of Antiochos Hierax (Section III). However, after Hierax’ defeat, Mithridates reverted to a policy of good relations with the main branch of the Syrian dynasty (Section IV).