bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
N-WASp is required for Schwann cell cytoskeletal dynamics, normal myelin gene expression and peripheral nerve myelination
Authors: Jin Fuzi , Dong Baoxia , Georgiou John , Jiang Qiuhong , Zhang Jinyi , Bharioke Arjun , Qiu Frank , Lommel Silvia , Feltri M. Laura , Wrabetz Lawrence , Roder John C. , Eyer Joel , Chen Xiequn , Peterson Alan C. , Siminovitch Katherine A.
Published: March 2011

Schwann cells elaborate myelin sheaths around axons by spirally wrapping and compacting their plasma membranes. Although actin remodeling plays a crucial role in this process, the effectors that modulate the Schwann cell cytoskeleton are poorly defined. Here, we show that the actin cytoskeletal regulator, neural Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome protein (N-WASp), is upregulated in myelinating Schwann cells coincident with myelin elaboration. When N-WASp is conditionally deleted in Schwann cells at the onset of myelination, the cells continue to ensheath axons but fail to extend processes circumferentially to elaborate myelin. Myelin-related gene expression is also severely reduced in the N-WASp-deficient cells and in vitro process and lamellipodia formation are disrupted. Although affected mice demonstrate obvious motor deficits these do not appear to progress, the mutant animals achieving normal body weights and living to advanced age. Our observations demonstrate that N-WASp plays an essential role in Schwann cell maturation and myelin formation.
Apoptosis controls the speed of looping morphogenesis in Drosophila male terminalia
Authors: Kuranaga Erina , Matsunuma Takayuki , Kanuka Hirotaka , Takemoto Kiwamu , Koto Akiko , Kimura Ken-ichi , Miura Masayuki
Published: March 2011

In metazoan development, the precise mechanisms that regulate the completion of morphogenesis according to a developmental timetable remain elusive. The Drosophila male terminalia is an asymmetric looping organ; the internal genitalia (spermiduct) loops dextrally around the hindgut. Mutants for apoptotic signaling have an orientation defect of their male terminalia, indicating that apoptosis contributes to the looping morphogenesis. However, the physiological roles of apoptosis in the looping morphogenesis of male terminalia have been unclear. Here, we show the role of apoptosis in the organogenesis of male terminalia using time-lapse imaging. In normal flies, genitalia rotation accelerated as development proceeded, and completed a full 360° rotation. This acceleration was impaired when the activity of caspases or JNK or PVF/PVR signaling was reduced. Acceleration was induced by two distinct subcompartments of the A8 segment that formed a ring shape and surrounded the male genitalia: the inner ring rotated with the genitalia and the outer ring rotated later, functioning as a ‘moving walkway’ to accelerate the inner ring rotation. A quantitative analysis combining the use of a FRET-based indicator for caspase activation with single-cell tracking showed that the timing and degree of apoptosis correlated with the movement of the outer ring, and upregulation of the apoptotic signal increased the speed of genital rotation. Therefore, apoptosis coordinates the outer ring movement that drives the acceleration of genitalia rotation, thereby enabling the complete morphogenesis of male genitalia within a limited developmental time frame.
Modulation of the ligand-independent traffic of Notch by Axin and Apc contributes to the activation of Armadillo in Drosophila
Authors: Muñoz-Descalzo Silvia , Tkocz Katarzyna , Balayo Tina , Arias Alfonso Martinez
Published: March 2011

There is increasing evidence for close functional interactions between Wnt and Notch signalling. In many instances, these are mediated by convergence of the signalling events on common transcriptional targets, but there are other instances that cannot be accounted for in this manner. Studies in Drosophila have revealed that an activated form of Armadillo, the effector of Wnt signalling, interacts with, and is modulated by, the Notch receptor. Specifically, the ligand-independent traffic of Notch serves to set up a threshold for the amount of this form of Armadillo and therefore for Wnt signalling. In the current model of Wnt signalling, a complex assembled around Axin and Apc allows GSK3 (Shaggy) to phosphorylate Armadillo and target it for degradation. However, genetic experiments suggest that the loss of function of any of these three elements does not have the same effect as elevating the activity of β-catenin. Here, we show that Axin and Apc, but not GSK3, modulate the ligand-independent traffic of Notch. This finding helps to explain unexpected differences in the phenotypes obtained by different ways of activating Armadillo function and provides further support for the notion that Wnt and Notch signalling form a single functional module.
Physician assistants in English general practice: A qualitative study of employers’ viewpoints
Authors: Drennan Vari , Levenson Ros , Halter Mary , Tye Chris
Published: March 2011

Objective:

Effective use of staff is a major aim in all health-care systems both to maximize their impact and to minimize costs. In England, a few general practitioners (GPs) have been recruiting physician assistants (PAs) to work in their practices, independent of any pilot schemes. Our objective was to study the motivation of GPs and practice managers who employed PAs and to understand the factors that sustained their employment.

Methods:

A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews, analysed thematically, was carried out with 13 GPs and three practice managers from 15 general practices employing PAs in five areas of England.

Results:

All practices were employing USA-trained PAs. Motivating factors for their employment included increasing the general practice capacity to manage patient demand within government targets for access, broaden the skill-mix in the practice team and financial considerations. The issues that needed to be taken into account in employing PAs included: the requirement for medical supervision; the PAs current lack of a regulatory framework and prescribing authority; and some patients’ lack of familiarity with the concept of the PA.

Conclusions:

General practice employers view PAs as a positive addition to a mixed skill team for meeting patient demand within a practice's finances. There is a need to develop stronger governance and regulatory frameworks for this emerging profession.
Health Services Use Associated with Emergency Department Closure
Authors: Hansen Kristian Schultz , Enemark Ulrika , Foldspang Anders
Published: March 2011

Objective

To study changes in health services consumption following substantial reduction in the availability of local emergency services in a small municipality population.

Method

A dynamic cohort (21,000 residents of Viborg County, Denmark, of which 2,300 from Morsø municipality) was followed, 1997-2003. Data were extracted from administrative registries including information on individual use of emergency services and other hospital care, contact with GPs and socioeconomic background. Health services' use by the Morsø population was measured before reduction in emergency room opening hours, during a period of reduced opening hours and after closure, compared with the rest of Viborg County.

Results

Emergency service use did not change among Morsø municipality residents compared to other Viborg County residents. Compared to men in other parts of the county, Morsø men did not change their use of substitute health services. By contrast, Morsø women compared to the rest of Viborg county reduced their use of GP services in terms of face-to-face visits (β= -0.08, P = 0.020), telephone consultations (β= -0.11, P = 0.007), home visits (β= -0.48, P = 0.009), and their inpatient hospital utilization (β= -0.12, P = 0.022) during the period when emergeny services were only available in the daytime.

Conclusions

Emergency services at neighbouring hospitals (40 kilometres distance) were able to compensate, in part, for the decreased local emergency service provision. Concurrent changes in health care utilization patterns were observed among local residents that varied by gender.
Back to basics – cutting the cord on umbilical infections
Authors: Sharples Alistair , McArthur David , McNamara Kate , Lengyel John
Published: March 2011

INTRODUCTION

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are a significant cause of postoperative morbidity with laparoscopic surgery associated with lower SSI rates. However, a departmental change in our unit to increased laparoscopic colorectal surgery resulted in increased wound infection rates at umbilical specimen extraction sites, the cause of which we attempted to elucidate.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Prospectively collected data over an 18-month period (April 2008 to September 2009) for laparoscopic colorectal operations in a busy teaching hospital were retrospectively analysed, focusing on operation performed, whether pre-operative skin cleansing was employed, nature of specimen extraction excision, and rate of umbilical wound infection. Comparison was made with open colorectal procedures performed in the preceding year.

RESULTS

In total, 275 laparoscopic colorectal operations were performed. Over the first 8 months there was a significant increase in infection rates when compared with open procedures over a similar time period (23.5% vs 8.0%; P = 0.0001). Changing practice to use pre-operative skin cleansing and an incision that skirted around, as opposed to traversing, the umbilicus reduced umbilical infection rates significantly from 23.5% to 11.6% (P = 0.01). Patients undergoing right hemicolectomy benefitted more (reduction of 30.0% to 6.9%; P = 0.04) than those undergoing anterior resection (26.8% vs 15.6%, P = 0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

Umbilical incisions, when extended for specimen extraction, are particularly prone to infection following colorectal surgery but rates can be reduced by simple measures such as pre-operative umbilical cleansing and avoidance of the umbilicus in the incision, without the need for drastic and costly changes in technique or antibiotic prophylaxis.
Diagnostic Potential of Saliva: Current State and Future Applications
Authors: Pfaffe Tina , Cooper-White Justin , Beyerlein Peter , Kostner Karam , Punyadeera Chamindie
Published: March 2011

BACKGROUND

Over the past 10 years, the use of saliva as a diagnostic fluid has gained attention and has become a translational research success story. Some of the current nanotechnologies have been demonstrated to have the analytical sensitivity required for the use of saliva as a diagnostic medium to detect and predict disease progression. However, these technologies have not yet been integrated into current clinical practice and work flow.

CONTENT

As a diagnostic fluid, saliva offers advantages over serum because it can be collected noninvasively by individuals with modest training, and it offers a cost-effective approach for the screening of large populations. Gland-specific saliva can also be used for diagnosis of pathology specific to one of the major salivary glands. There is minimal risk of contracting infections during saliva collection, and saliva can be used in clinically challenging situations, such as obtaining samples from children or handicapped or anxious patients, in whom blood sampling could be a difficult act to perform. In this review we highlight the production of and secretion of saliva, the salivary proteome, transportation of biomolecules from blood capillaries to salivary glands, and the diagnostic potential of saliva for use in detection of cardiovascular disease and oral and breast cancers. We also highlight the barriers to application of saliva testing and its advancement in clinical settings.

Saliva has the potential to become a first-line diagnostic sample of choice owing to the advancements in detection technologies coupled with combinations of biomolecules with clinical relevance.
Bounds on the roots of the Steiner polynomial
Authors: Jetter Madeleine
Published: March 2011

We consider the Steiner polynomial of a C
2 convex body . Denote by ρ
min the minimum value of the principal radii of curvature of ∂K and by ρ
max their maximum. When n ≤ 5, the real parts of the roots are bounded above by –ρ
min and below by –ρ
max. These bounds are valid for any n such that all of the roots of the Steiner polynomial of every convex body in lie in the left half-plane.
Comparison of Brazilian and U.S. Biofuel Demand: The Role of Vehicle Fleets and Prices in Meeting Policy Targets
Authors: Tokgoz Simla , Bhandary Prapti
Published: March 2011

The two largest producers of biofuels in the world, Brazil and U.S., both have various policy initiatives designed to meet a significant portion of their need for transportation fuels from biofuels. However, the structure of bio biofuel demand and vehicle fleets varies widely between these two economies, affecting the level of absorption of biofuels by the refiners and final consumers of each country. The relative prices of biofuels to conventional fuel prices (gasoline and diesel) determine consumers' demand not only for biofuels and but also for alternative fuel vehicles. The vehicle fleet structure, in turn, determines the ability of the transportation sector to absorb biofuels. Brazil, with its low costs of production, can sell ethanol at a competitive level with gasoline, which allows ethanol demand to expand and vehicle fleet to transform. U.S., on the other hand, cannot sell ethanol competitively. This limits market expansion and vehicle fleet transformation in the U.S., which, in turn, hinders its ability to achieve policy targets. With many countries taking initiatives to meet a large share of their transportation fuel needs from biofuels, the experiences of U.S. and Brazil provide valuable lessons for policy makers, where an in-depth analysis of the inter-linkages among relative prices, biofuel demand, and vehicle fleet structure prove to be crucial for successful and effective policy making.
Adenosine 2A receptor: a crucial neuromodulator with bidirectional effect in neuroinflammation and brain injury
Authors: Dai Shuang-Shuang , Zhou Yuan-Guo
Published: March 2011

This review summarizes recent developments that have contributed to our understanding of how adenosine 2A receptors (A2ARs) modulate brain damage in various animal models of acute neurological injuries, including brain ischemia, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and hemorrhage stroke. The main conclusions are: (1) pharmacological, neurochemical and molecular/genetic approaches to the complex actions of A2AR in different cellular elements suggest that A2AR activation exerts bidirectional effect (detrimental or protective) after brain insults; (2) modulation of glutamate excitotoxicity and neuroinflammation are involved in the protection of A2AR agonists or antagonists, but the bidirectional effect of A2AR is largely due to the bidirectional regulation of neuroinflammation (anti-inflammation or proinflammation) by A2AR on immune cells such as microglia cells and peripheral bone marrow cells; and (3) the bidirectional effect of A2AR on neuroinflammation and brain injury depends on the distinct and sometimes opposite actions of A2AR in various cellular elements and on different injury models and associated pathological conditions. The local glutamate level in the brain injury is one of the crucial factors that contribute to the direction of A2AR effect on neuroinflammation and brain injury outcome. These developments presented here clearly highlight the complexity of using A2AR agents therapeutically in acute neuronal injuries and confirm that A2AR ligands have many promising characteristics that encourage the pursuit of their full therapeutic potential.
Unique Calibration Case Study for Predictive Model of Installation Loads for Directional Drilled Fusible PVC Pipe
Authors: Botteicher Richard (Bo) , Ariaratnam Samuel T.
Published: March 2011

The nature of the horizontal directional drilling (HDD) process necessitates the use of pipe products that are capable of being pulled into final alignment via a tensile force, as opposed to being pushed or jacked by segmental means. While steel and high density polyethylene pipes have been historically used with HDD methodology, a fusible polyvinylchloride pipe (FPVCP) product has been one relatively recent addition to the materials available for the installation of water, wastewater, pressure, and non-pressure infrastructure. Maximum safe pull load criteria have been developed for this material, and recent research was focused on aligning current predictive pull force modeling with this material for use in HDD application. Recent work has presented the predictive model and general validation of its use with FPVCP. One particular set of monitored HDD installations that was gathered during the field validation stage of the research provided unique insight into the use of the predictive model to calculate the required pulling force for use in HDD installation methodology. An overview of the model background, field validation study, and specific case study will be reviewed. Specific conclusions regarding this case study relate to the importance of drilling fluid accuracy in the model.
Effect of Gas Pressure on Active Screen Plasma Nitriding Response
Authors: Nishimoto Akio , Nagatsuka Kimiaki , Narita Ryota , Nii Hiroaki , Akamatsu Katsuya
Published: March 2011

An austenitic stainless steel AISI 304 was active screen plasma nitrided using a 304 steel screen to investigate the effect of the gas pressure on the nitriding response. The sample was treated for 18 ks at 723 K in 25 % N2 + 75 % H2. The gas pressure was changed to 100, 600, and 1200 Pa. The distance between the screen and the sample was also changed to 10, 30, and 50 mm. The nitrided samples were characterized by observing their appearance and surface roughness by optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and microhardness testing. After nitriding, polygonal particles with a normal distribution were observed at the center and edges of all the nitrided sample surfaces. The particles on the sample surface became finer with an increase in the gas pressure. The nitrided layer with a greater and homogeneous thickness was obtained at a low gas pressure of 100 Pa.
Vitamin D-associated polymorphisms are related to insulin resistance and vitamin D deficiency in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Wehr Elisabeth , Trummer Olivia , Giuliani Albrecht , Gruber Hans-Jürgen , Pieber Thomas R , Obermayer-Pietsch Barbara
Published: March 2011

Introduction

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) frequently suffer from metabolic disturbances including insulin resistance (IR), which might be related to vitamin D metabolism. We aimed to investigate the association of polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene as well as vitamin D level-associated genes with metabolic and endocrine parameters in PCOS women. Moreover, we examined whether there are associations with PCOS susceptibility.

Methods

Metabolic, endocrine, and anthropometric measurements and oral glucose tolerance tests were performed in 545 PCOS and 145 control women. Genotyping ofVDR(Cdx2,Bsm-I,Fok-I,Apa-I, andTaq-I),GC,DHCR7, andCYP2R1polymorphisms was performed.

Results

25-Hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) levels showed significant negative correlation with IR and positive correlation with insulin sensitivity (P<0.05 for all) in PCOS women. In PCOS women, theVDRCdx2‘AA’ genotype was associated with lower fasting insulin (P=0.039) and homeostatic model assessment-IR (P=0.041) and higher quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (P=0.012) and MATSUDA index (P=0.003). TheVDRApa-I‘AA’ genotype was associated with lower testosterone (P=0.028) levels. In PCOS women, 170 women (31.2%) presented with 25(OH)D levels <20 ng/ml. PCOS women carrying theGC‘GG’ genotype and theDHCR7‘GG’ genotype had a significantly higher risk for 25(OH)D levels <20 ng/ml (OR 2.53 (1.27–5.06),P=0.009, and OR 2.66 (1.08–6.55),P=0.033 respectively) compared with PCOS women carrying theGC‘TT’ genotype andDHCR‘TT’ genotype in multivariate analyses. We observed no association of genetic variations and PCOS susceptibility.

Conclusion

VDR and vitamin D level-related variants are associated with metabolic and endocrine parameters including 25(OH)D levels in PCOS women.
Incorporation of dietary n-3 fatty acids into ovarian compartments in dairy cows and the effects on hormonal and behavioral patterns around estrus
Authors: Zachut M , Arieli A , Moallem U
Published: March 2011

The objective of this study was to examine the incorporation of dietary n-3 fatty acids (FAs) into ovarian compartments and the effects on hormonal and behavioral patterns around estrus. Multiparous 256-day pregnant cows were fed either a standard diet both prepartum and postpartum (PP) (control;n=22) or supplemented with extruded flaxseed (E-FLAX) providing C18:3n-3 at 172.2 and 402.5 g/day per cow prepartum and PP respectively (n=22). The estrous cycle was synchronized, and at day 7 of the cycle, the cows were injected with prostaglandin F2α(PGF2α) and then subjected to 5 days of intensive examination. Compared with those in the control, in the E-FLAX group, the interval from PGF2αinjection to behavioral estrus peak tended to be longer (3.6 h;P<0.1), that to estradiol (E2) peak was 6.5 h longer (P<0.03), and that to LH peak tended to be longer (5.3 h;P<0.07). The durations of behavioral estrus and E2surge were longer, and the area under the E2curve was greater in the E-FLAX cows. Afterward, 7–8 days following behavioral estrus, follicular fluids (FFs) from >7 mm follicles were aspirated. The proportions of n-3 FA increased in plasma, FF, and granulosa cells in the E-FLAX group. The concentrations of PGE2in the E2-active follicles tended to be lower in the E-FLAX cows (P<0.06). In conclusion, several modifications in hormonal and behavioral estrus patterns were demonstrated in cows fed n-3 FA, which might be attributed to alterations in membrane FA composition and partly mediated by lower PGE2synthesis.
Battered child syndrome mimicking acute appendicitis
Authors: Papp Zoltán
Published: March 2011

The paper presents the case of a 15-year-old child suffering from battered child syndrome, who was operated on with the presumed diagnosis of acute appendicitis. On the course of the operation the injury and hematoma of the mesentery of the small bowel was discovered, along with retroperitoneal hematoma and blood in the abdominal cavity. Consecutive investigation revealed a child abuse lasting for at least 3 years. Lessons of the case were the misleading symptoms of the serious intraabdominal injuries, caused by life-threatening maltreatment of the child, which eventually led to the false diagnosis of appendicitis. The case has a moral message towards society as well: we need to pay attention on the surrounding world and act against aggression. Orv. Hetil., 2011, 152, 485–488.
Predicting Success of Academically Dismissed Undergraduate Students Using Quality Point Status
Authors: Cogan Michael F.
Published: March 2011

This study explored the outcome of academically dismissed students reinstated the semester following academic dismissal at a medium-size Midwestern University. Logistic regression was utilized to identify predictors that may assist academic administrators in making decisions regarding future reinstatement activities. The overall model correctly classified 73.7% of the subjects in the sample. In addition, a combination of six factors accounted for 32.5% of the total variance in academic status; however, 19.2% of the variance was accounted for by a single factor (term of dismissal quality point status). These results indicate the need for careful consideration regarding this little known measure available to higher education academic administrators.
An Exploration of the Relationship between Religiosity and Retention
Authors: Butterfield Rex M. , Pemberton Cynthia Lee A.
Published: March 2011

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between religiosity and retention at Idaho State University (ISU). Attrition is a problem that has, and continues to plague higher education. Research shows that students who are more integrated in education (both in and out of class) are more likely to remain enrolled. For this study, religious involvement was examined as an avenue of educational integration. Data were obtained from 103 respondents to a mail survey. Factor analysis revealed three useable factors regarding religious attitudes and behaviors. These factors were analyzed along with demographic variables to explore the relationship between religiosity and retention. The demographic information showed that the sample was representative of the ISU student population. Although statistically significant differences based on demographics in terms of enrollment were not found, significant differences were noted between males and females across some enrollment related demographic variables.
The Relationship between Academic Support Systems and Intended Persistence in Doctoral Education
Authors: Cockrell Casey N. , Shelley Kyna
Published: March 2011

This study investigated the relationship of formal academic support systems and stage of doctoral study on persistence, satisfaction, and knowledge of resources, expectations, and customs in doctoral education. Doctoral students ( N = 141) enrolled in four public institutions in a southeastern state were surveyed. An online questionnaire, adapted from the 1999 Survey on Doctoral Education (Golde & Dore, 2001), was used to survey participants. Approximately 94% of the participants self-reported intent to persist. The majority of the participants also indicated belonging to at least one support system within the doctoral program. Doctoral programs may consider offering several forms of support to improve doctoral student satisfaction and knowledge of resources while increasing persistence. Statistically significant correlations were found in student satisfaction with the advisor relationship and advisor practices. Based on these findings, doctoral programs also should give close attention to the relationship between the advisor and the student.
Sad to Say: Is it Time for Sorrow Management Theory?
Authors: Kastenbaum Robert , Heflick Nathan A.
Published: March 2011

Terror Management Theory (TMT) research often asks respondents to describe their personal death. This exposure enables the testing of hypotheses regarding defenses (“buffers”) against the anxious awareness of death. Curiously, though, the respondents' narratives are not analyzed or reported. The present study offers a qualitative analysis of 209 college student narrative responses provided for this purpose by TMT researchers Jeff Greenberg and Nathan Heflick. The narratives are reviewed with attention to affect (adjectives), semantic structure, and theme. Many responses are marked by anxiety, but sorrow is also pervasive. Individual differences in response substance and structure invite further exploration. It is suggested that our understanding of the response to personal death threat could be enhanced by encompassing sorrow as well as anxiety within the same conceptual framework. Several specific hypotheses and suggestions are offered.
Cross-Cultural Re-Entry for Missionaries: A New Application for the Dual Process Model
Authors: Selby Susan , Clark Sheila , Braunack-Mayer Annette , Jones Alison , Moulding Nicole , Beilby Justin
Published: March 2011

Nearly half a million foreign aid workers currently work worldwide, including over 140,000 missionaries. During re-entry these workers may experience significant psychological distress. This article positions previous research about psychological distress during re-entry, emphasizing loss and grief. At present there is no identifiable theoretical framework to provide a basis for assessment, management, and prevention of re-entry distress in the clinical setting. The development of theoretical concepts and frameworks surrounding loss and grief including the Dual Process Model (DPM) are discussed. All the parameters of the DPM have been shown to be appropriate for the proposed re-entry model, the Dual Process Model applied to Re-entry (DPMR). It is proposed that the DPMR is an appropriate framework to address the processes and strategies of managing re-entry loss and grief. Possible future clinical applications and limitations of the proposed model are discussed. The DPMR is offered for further validation and use in clinical practice.
Ethnographic Research in Multicultural Educational Contexts as a Contribution to Intercultural Dialogue
Authors: Gobbo Francesca
Published: March 2011

In this article, the author argues that the Council of Europe White Paper's invitation to intercultural dialogue is certainly to be welcomed and pursued, but that its focus on ‘managing’ diversity should be complemented by the concern for understanding how diversity can be represented, negotiated and treated by the different actors in multicultural educational contexts. After pointing out that intercultural education has been chosen by Italian educational authorities to respond to the unforeseen prospects and challenges of multicultural classrooms, the author illustrates how ethnographic research is not only relevant for acknowledging and interrogating diversities but also for problematizing the conceptual foundations of educational policies and aims. She further argues that ethnographic research provides fieldworkers and the subjects of research with an effective opportunity to engage in an intercultural dialogue.
Human Dignity and Humiliation Studies: A Global Network Advancing Dignity through Dialogue
Authors: Lindner Evelin G. , Hartling Linda M. , Spalthoff Ulrich
Published: March 2011

Human rights are universally based on the concept of human dignity. Various international organizations are developing the theoretical, legal, and political framework for human rights. The underlying concept of human dignity is less disputed, but also receives less attention. This shortcoming is addressed by a worldwide group of scholars and practitioners dedicated to examining and understanding the many aspects of human dignity, as well as its violation – humiliation. This article describes the efforts of the Human Dignity and Humiliation Studies (HumanDHS) network. The network is a global transdisciplinary fellowship of individuals dedicated to advancing research, education, and interventions to end humiliating practices and promote human dignity around the world. The HumanDHS community strives to stimulate systemic change, globally and locally, opening space for mutual respect and esteem to take root and grow, thus ending humiliating practices and breaking cycles of humiliation. This article describes the efforts of HumanDHS to encourage practices that lead to equality in dignity through dignifying dialogue and collaborative action.
Accounting Doctoral Program Rankings Based on Research Productivity of Program Graduates
Authors: Stephens Nathaniel M. , Summers Scott L. , Williams Brady , Wood David A.
Published: March 2011

SYNOPSIS: This paper presents rankings of accounting doctoral programs based on the research productivity of each institution’s graduates in the years immediately following their graduation. We use two time periods for analysis: the first three years after graduation and the first six years after graduation. We extend previous doctoral program ranking literature by expanding rankings of accounting doctoral programs with specific rankings for topical areas (accounting information systems [AIS], audit, financial, managerial, and tax) and methodologies (analytical, archival, and experimental). We show that rankings for topical and methodological areas differ significantly from rankings produced using methodologies that create a singular doctoral program ranking. These results emphasize the importance of considering topical and methodological areas when assessing doctoral program research strengths. These rankings should be of value to Ph.D. program applicants, administrators of academic programs, and industry—such as administrators of programs like the Accounting Doctoral Scholars program, KPMG Ph.D. Project, and prospective Ph.D. students.
Robert T. Sprouse and Fundamental Concepts of Financial Accounting
Authors: Swieringa Robert J.
Published: March 2011

SYNOPSIS: This paper reviews the life and contributions of the late Robert T. Sprouse to the conceptual development of financial accounting. He was an influential accounting academic and standard setter who is perhaps best known for his joint monograph with Maurice Moonitz, A Tentative Set of Broad Accounting Principles for Business Enterprises, which provided a springboard for the development and use of fundamental concepts that are expressed or implied in the FASB conceptual framework, accounting standards, and related publications and have changed the way we analyze and resolve financial accounting and reporting issues.
Time-dependent wave packet theoretical study of femtosecond photoelectron spectra and coupling between the A2Σ+ and B2Π states of the NO molecule in a strong laser field
Authors: Zhu Yonghua , Song Peng , Yang Huan , Ma Fengcai
Published: March 2011

In this work, the femtosecond time-resolved photoelectron spectra and the coupling between the A2Σ+ and B2Π states of the NO molecule in a strong laser field have been investigated by the time-dependent wave packet method. We demonstrate that the weak coupling between the A2Σ+ and B2Π states of NO plays a key role on the peak centered at 0.37 eV of the photoelectron spectra in the 2+1’ channel.
Rho kinase inhibitors stimulate the migration of human cultured osteoblastic cells by regulating actomyosin activity
Authors: Zhang Xuejiao , Li Cheng , Gao Huiling , Nabeka Hiroaki , Shimokawa Tetsuya , Wakisaka Hiroyuki , Matsuda Seiji , Kobayashi Naoto
Published: March 2011

We investigated the effects of Rho-associated kinase (ROCK) on migration and cytoskeletal organization in primary human osteoblasts and Saos-2 human osteosarcoma cells. Both cell types were exposed to two different ROCK inhibitors, Y-27632 and HA-1077. In the improved motility assay used in the present study, Y-27632 and HA-1077 significantly increased the migration of both osteoblasts and osteosarcoma cells on plastic in a dose-dependent and reversible manner. Fluorescent images showed that cells of both types cultured with Y-27632 or HA-1077 exhibited a stellate appearance, with poor assembly of stress fibers and focal contacts. Western blotting showed that ROCK inhibitors reduced myosin light chain (MLC) phosphorylation within 5 min without affecting overall myosin light-chain protein levels. Inhibition of ROCK activity is thought to enhance the migration of human osteoblasts through reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton and regulation of myosin activity. ROCK inhibitors may be potentially useful as anabolic agents to enhance the biocompatibility of bone and joint prostheses.
Human dirofilariosis: The report of subcutaneous Dirofilaria repens infection in the Slovak Republic
Authors: Nováková E. , Kinčeková J. , Adamicová K. , Kompaníková J. , Švihrová V. , Šimeková K. , Krause J. , Pavlinová J. , Dvorožňáková E.
Published: March 2011

Dirofilariosis is a vector-borne disease that is spreading in Europe from the southern endemic regions to the northern countries, including Slovakia. The dog parasites Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens are zoonotic agents, responsible for the development of human pulmonary and subcutaneous dirofilariosis, respectively. The present paper reports the third case of human dirofilariosis in Slovakia caused by D. repens. The pacient, a 41-year-old woman, was referred with tumour process in the subcutaneous area of the right forearm. Within 14 days the USG confirmed the rapid increase of the nodule from 20 × 10 mm to 30 × 25 mm. The surgical extirpation of the tumour was indicated. Histological examination revealed the formation with eosinofilic rime and the presence of a worm in the centre, detected as D. repens.
Helminth infection in Mugil incilis from Cartagena de Indias, Colombian Caribbean coast
Authors: Iglesias L. , Benítez R. , Adroher F. , Valero A.
Published: March 2011

This survey records the occurrence of larvae of Contracaecum multipapillatum sensu lato (Von Drasche, 1882) Lucker, 1941 (Nematoda, Anisakidae) and adults of Floridosentis mugilis (Machado Filho, 1951) Ward, 1953 (Acanthocephala, Neoechinorhynchidae) in mullet Mugil incilis Hancock, 1830 caught in La Boquilla, Cartagena de Indias (Colombian Caribbean coast). The prevalence of F. mugilis was 45.7 % and of C. multipapillatum s.l. 58.6 %, while 28.6 % of the fish were parasitized by both species. The smallest hosts presented the lowest prevalence of F. mugilis but the highest prevalence of C. multipapillatum s.l.. Prevalence, mean abundance and mean intensity of C. multipapillatum s.l. in M. incilis were all highest in viscera. The prevalence in fish muscle tissue was low (2.9 %).
Total Asymmetric Synthesis of Monosaccharides and Analogues
Authors: Robina Inmaculada , Carmona Ana T. , Moreno-Vargas Antonio J. , Moreno-Clavijo Elena
Published: March 2011

Since the discovery of the 'formose reaction' by Butlerow,[1] total synthesis of carbohydrates has undergone rapid development. The most important methods for the asymmetric synthesis of monosaccharides and analogues of biological importance are presented. Nowadays any natural
and non-natural monosaccharide can be prepared pure in both enantiomeric forms starting from inexpensive starting materials. Metal-based asymmetric catalysis and organocatalysis have been successfully applied, alone or in combination with chemoenzymatic methods. Alternative methods rely upon
substrate- or reagent- controlled diastereo- and enantioselective reactions. Suitably protected carbohydrates have been prepared by total synthesis, thus allowing their direct use in the preparation of oligosaccharides and analogues.[2]
Demonstration of Mass Transfer Using Aeration of Water
Authors: Syeda Sultana R , Arifin BMS , Islam Md M , Kumar Anup
Published: March 2011

An experiment was developed using aeration of water for demonstrating the phenomenon of mass transfer. The demonstration was designed to provide both conceptual and practical insight of the mass transfer process. A bubble column fitted with a sieve tray was used to carry out the experiment. The air flow rate and hole size of the sieve tray were varied. Mass transfer coefficient was obtained from the initial and final oxygen concentrations of the aerated water. A dimensionless correlation for mass transfer coefficient in terms of the experimental variables was developed by dimensional analysis and regression of the experimental data. The demonstration is suitable for chemical and other engineering students and can be fit in one laboratory session of three hours. The experimental setup is simple and inexpensive, and can be developed in-house. In addition to the laboratory demonstration, the experiment can also be used for optimizing design parameters of industrial aeration tanks. Keywords mass transfer coefficient; aeration; bubble column; dimensional analysis; Stanton number. DOI: 10.3329/jce.v25i0.7239Journal of Chemical Engineering, IEB Vol. ChE. 25, No. 1, December 2010 pp.56-60
Condensate Fractionation Column: Design Variation Study by Simulation
Authors: Begum DA , Rahman A , Kirtania K
Published: March 2011

This work aims to study the quality of three products of a fractionation column considering different design conditions of the column using natural gas condensate as column feed. The first design was on a single traditional distillation column whereas the consecutive studies were done by modifying the distillation column to yield the same quality of products. This study includes the details quality variation along with the variation of design. The whole simulation study and analysis was done on ASPENTM HYSYS 7.1. Keywords simulation; fractionation; distillation; ASPEN; design. DOI: 10.3329/jce.v25i0.7241Journal of Chemical Engineering, IEB Vol. ChE. 25, No. 1, December 2010 pp.65-70
Implication of Heat Shock Factors in Tumorigenesis: Therapeutical Potential
Authors: De Thonel Aurelie , Mezger Valerie , Garrido Carmen
Published: March 2011

Heat Shock Factors (HSF) form a family of transcription factors (four in mammals) which were named according to the discovery of their activation by a heat shock. HSFs trigger the expression of genes encoding Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) that function as molecular chaperones, contributing to establish a cytoprotective state to various proteotoxic stresses and in pathological conditions. Increasing evidence indicates that this ancient transcriptional protective program acts genome-widely and performs unexpected functions in the absence of experimentally defined stress. Indeed, HSFs are able to re-shape cellular pathways controlling longevity, growth, metabolism and development. The most well studied HSF, HSF1, has been found at elevated levels in tumors with high metastatic potential and is associated with poor prognosis. This is partly explained by the above-mentioned cytoprotective (HSP-dependent) function that may enable cancer cells to adapt to the initial oncogenic stress and to support malignant transformation. Nevertheless, HSF1 operates as major multifaceted enhancers of tumorigenesis through, not only the induction of classical heat shock genes, but also of “non-classical” targets. Indeed, in cancer cells, HSF1 regulates genes involved in core cellular functions including proliferation, survival, migration, protein synthesis, signal transduction, and glucose metabolism, making HSF1 a very attractive target in cancer therapy. In this review, we describe the different physiological roles of HSFs as well as the recent discoveries in term of non-cogenic potential of these HSFs, more specifically associated to the activation of “non-classical” HSF target genes. We also present an update on the compounds with potent HSF1-modulating activity of potential interest as anti-cancer therapeutic agents.
Dietary Sources of Fiber Intake and Its Association with Socio-Economic Factors among Flemish Preschool Children
Authors: Lin Yi , Bolca Selin , Vandevijvere Stefanie , Keyzer Willem De , Oyen Herman Van , Camp John Van , Backer Guy De , Henauw Stefaan De , Huybrechts Inge
Published: March 2011

The objectives were to assess total dietary fiber intake, identify the major sources of dietary fiber, and examine its association with socio-economic factors among Flemish preschoolers. Three-day estimated dietary records were collected from a representative sample of preschoolers 2.5–6.5 years old (n = 661; 338 boys, 323 girls). The mean dietary fiber intake (13.4 g/d) was lower than the intake level recommended by the Belgian Superior Health Council (70% boys and 81% girls below the guidelines). The most important contributor was the group of bread and cereals (29.5%), followed by fruits (17.8%), potatoes and grains (16.0%), energy-dense, low-nutritious foods (12.4%), and vegetables (11.8%). Multiple linear regression analyses showed that total fiber intake was associated with maternal education and parents’ employment. Overall, fiber intakes from high-nutritious foods (vegetables and fruits) were higher in preschoolers of higher educated mothers and those with one or both parents being employed. In conclusion, the majority of the preschoolers had dietary fiber intakes below the recommended level. Hence, dietary fiber should be promoted among parents of preschoolers and low socio-economic status families should be addressed in particular.
Host-Seeking Behavior in the Bed Bug, Cimex lectularius
Authors: Suchy James T. , Lewis Vernard R.
Published: March 2011

The reemergence of the bed bug, Cimex lectularius Linnaeus, has recently spawned a frenzy of public, media, and academic attention. In response to the growing rate of infestation, considerable work has been focused on identifying the various host cues utilized by the bed bug in search of a meal. Most of these behavioral studies examine movement within a confined environment, such as a Petri dish. This has prevented a more complete understanding of the insect’s host-seeking process. This work describes a novel method for studying host-seeking behavior, using various movement parameters, in a time-lapse photography system. With the use of human breath as an attractant, we qualitatively and quantitatively assessed how bed bugs navigate their environment between its harborage and the host. Levels of behavioral activity varied dramatically between bed bugs in the presence and absence of host odor. Bed bugs demonstrated not simply activation, but attraction to the chemical components of breath. Localized, stop-start host-seeking behavior or alternating periods of movement and pause were observed among bed bugs placed in the environment void of human breath, while those exposed to human breath demonstrated long range, stop-start host-seeking behavior. A more comprehensive understanding of bed bug host-seeking can lead to the development of traps and monitors that account for unique subtleties in their behavior. The time-lapse photography system uses a large, artificial environment and could also be employed to study other aspects of the insect’s behavioral patterns.
Analgesic-like Activity of Essential Oils Constituents
Authors: De Sousa Damião Pergentino
Published: March 2011

Research on neuroactive drugs is a pharmaceutical sector of high interest and growth. The discovery of efficient drugs that can relieve pain is a subject of research in the pharmaceutical industry and academic field because pain is a symptom of many diseases. This review will summarize results on the discovery of essential oil constituents with analgesic-like activity from the chemical and pharmacological perspectives. Overall, 43 bioactive compounds were selected in nociception models. Among them, 62.8% were monoterpenes, 18.6% sesquiterpenes and other constituents represented 18.6%. The data show the potential of this group of natural product chemicals as analgesic drugs that may be useful for therapeutic purposes.
In Vitro Cytotoxic Evaluation of a Novel Phosphinyl Derivative of Boldine
Authors: Thomet Franz A. , Piñol Pablo , Villena Joan , Reveco Patricio G.
Published: March 2011

2,9-Dimethoxymethylboldine (2), 2,9-dimethoxymethyl-3-bromoboldine (3) and 2,9-dimethoxymethyl-3-diphenylphosphinylboldine (4) have been synthesized in an effort to find compounds with potential pharmacological applications. The cytotoxic activities of the natural precursor 1 and these three derivatives have been measured as IC50 inhibitory growth. The diphenylphosphinyl derivative 4 showed a significant cytotoxic activity on two breast cancer cell lines, namely MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, with IC50 values of 55.5 and 62.7 [µM], respectively. These results suggest that the kind of structural modifications introduced to synthesize compound 4 represent a promising way to enhance the cytotoxic activity of boldine derivatives.
Diterpenoid Tanshinones and Phenolic Acids from Cultured Hairy Roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge and Their Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Zhao Jianglin , Lou Jingfeng , Mou Yan , Li Peiqin , Wu Jianyong , Zhou Ligang
Published: March 2011

Four diterpenoid tanshinones and three phenolic acids were isolated from the crude ethanol extract of the cultured hairy roots of Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge by bioassay-guided fractionation. By means of physicochemical and spectrometric analysis, they were identified as tanshinone ΙΙA (1), tanshinone Ι (2), cryptotanshinone (3), dihydrotanshinone Ι (4), rosmarinic acid (5), caffeic acid (6), and danshensu (7). These compounds were evaluated to show a broad antimicrobial spectrum of activity on test microorganisms including eight bacterial and one fungal species. Among the four tanshinones, cryptotanshinone (3) and dihydrotanshinone Ι (4) exhibited stronger antimicrobial activity than tanshinone ΙΙA (1) and tanshinone Ι (2). The results indicated that the major portion of the antimicrobial activity was due to the presence of tanshinones and phenolic acids in S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots, which could be used as the materials for producing antimicrobial agents for use in agricultural practice in the future.