bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prolonged Survival of Human Hepatocarcinoma Cells in the Liver of Newborn C57BL/6 Mice and Resulting Cellular Xenorejection, Especially the Activation of Hepatic Natural Killer T Cells
Authors: Du Xiumin , Bai Zengliang , Zhang Jingping , Liu Lanlan , Han Ying , Wang Ze , Huan Tianxiao , Wu Baojun
Published: May 2010

Objective: To investigate the fate of human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the livers of newborn mice and the resulting cellular rejection.Methods: Two HCC cell lines (HepG2 and HCCLM3) labeled with DMAHAS were orthotopically transplanted to newborn and adult mice with or without low-dose cyclosporin A (CsA) treatment (10 mg/kg). The fate of tumor xenografts was examined and the resulting cellular response was investigated. Results: Tumor xenografts survived in newborn mice for >4 weeks, with a delayed lymphocyte infiltration mediated by CD4+ T, CD8+ T and NK1.1+ cells. In contrast, the xenografts survived in adults <8–10 days with an acute cellular rejection by CD8+T cells, NK1.1+ cells, macrophages or neutrophils. Orthotopic transplantation of human HCC xenografts elicited a strong cytotoxic response in newborn mice (p < 0.05), and selective T/NK1.1+ cell deletion in vitro suggested that such effector cells were mainly CD8+ T cells. Moreover, tumor xenografts induced a rapid activation of hepatic natural killer T (NKT) cells in both newborn and adult mice with enhanced secretion of IL-4 and IFN-γ in serum and subsequent NKT-like cytotoxicity. The rapid activation of NKT cells could be efficiently suppressed by low-dose CsA treatment, possibly in a CD1d-independent manner. Conclusion:Our data suggest that the livers of newborn mice were more suitable for the survival of xenografts than those of adult mice. Cell-mediated tumor xenorejection in newborn mice was different from that in adults, and hepatic NKT cells may play an important role in early tumor xenorejection.
Weight Gain during Pregnancy: Importance for Maternal and Child Health
Authors: Herring Sharon J. , Oken Emily
Published: May 2010

Gestational weight gain is a strong predictor of short- and long-term health outcomes for both childbearing women and their offspring. Epidemiologic studies have found that higher maternal gestational weight gains are associated with abnormalities in maternal prenatal glycemia, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and delivery complications, along with an increased risk of postpartum weight retention, incident obesity and adverse cardiometabolic sequelae in mothers by midlife. Additionally, observational data have linked greater gestational weight gains to increased fetal growth and later childhood obesity. Associations of gestational weight gain with preterm birth and infant mortality may be U-shaped, such that the risks are increased with both low and high gains. In an attempt to optimize both maternal and child outcomes, the Institute of Medicine revised gestational weight gain guidelines in 2009, recommending smaller gains for women with higher prepregnancy body mass indices, particularly for women entering pregnancy with a body mass index of at least 30. However, it is as of yet unclear if these new recommendations will lead to improvements in the proportions of women gaining recommended amounts, and in maternal and child health. As fewer than one third of mothers currently gain within the ranges recommended by the Institute of Medicine, interventions to help mothers achieve healthy gestational weight gains are of critical public health importance.
Dual modulation of nitric oxide production in the heart during ischaemia/reperfusion injury and inflammation
Authors: de Prati Alessandra , Podesser Bruno , Faggian Giuseppe , Scarabelli Tiziano , Mazzucco Alessandro , Darra Elena , Rungatscher Alessio , Hallström Seth , Suzuki Hisanori
Published: May 2010

Nitric oxide (NO) homeostasis maintained by neuronal/endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (n/eNOS) contributes to regulate cardiac function under physiological conditions. At the early stages of ischaemia, NO homeostasis is disturbed due to Ca2+-dependent e/nNOS activation. In endothelial cells, successive drop in NO concentration may occur due to both uncoupling of eNOS and/or successive inhibition of nNOS catalytic activity mediated by arachidonic acid-induced tyrosine phosphorylation of this enzyme. The reduced NO bioavailability triggers nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation followed by the induction of inducible NOS (iNOS) expression. In cardiomyocytes ischaemia also triggers the induction of iNOS expression during reperfusion. The massive amounts of NO which are subsequently produced following iNOS induction may exert on cardiomyocytes and the other cell types of cells of the heart, such as endothelial and smooth muscle cells, macrophages and neutrophils, opposing effects, either beneficial or toxic. The balance between these two double-faced actions may contribute to the final clinical outcomes, determining the degree of functional adaptation of the heart to ischaemia/reperfusion injury. In the light of this new vision on the critical role played by the cross-talk between n/eNOS and iNOS as well as the non enzymatic NO production by nitrite, we have reason to believe that new pharmacological measurements or experimental interventions, such as ischaemic preconditioning, aimed at counteracting the drop in NO levels beyond the normal range of NO homeostasis during early reperfusion can represent an efficient strategy to reduce the extent of functional impairment and cardiac damage in the heart exposed to ischaemia/reperfusion injury.
Circulating progenitor cells in patients with atrial fibrillation and their relation with serum markers of inflammation and angiogenesis
Authors: Blann Andrew , Watson Timothy , Shantsila Eduard , Lip Gregory
Published: May 2010

The pathophysiological inter-relationships and underlying ‘drivers’ of a prothrombotic state in atrial fibrillation (AF) are complex but may include endothelial abnormalities. Circulating progenitor cells (CPCs) have been recently described as a cell population that may promote repair of endothelial damage. We hypothesised abnormalities in this cell population, alongside abnormal markers of endothelial damage/dysfunction (von Willebrand factor, soluble E-selectin), apoptosis (soluble Fas, soluble Fas ligand), angiogenesis (vascular endothelial growth factor) and inflammation (interleukin-6) in 135 consecutive AF patients (14 with lone AF), who were compared to 33 ‘disease controls’ and 13 healthy controls. We also explored whether restoration of sinus rhythm would alter these indices. No significant differences in research indices were observed between AF and disease controls, apart from soluble Fas levels (p<0.001). Median CPC levels in lone AF were higher compared to ‘non-lone AF’ (that is, AF patients with co-morbidities) [p<0.001], apparently because of difference in age and presence of co-morbidities. There was an increase in CPC counts (p=0.007), but in not other markers following DC cardioversion. CPCs increased significantly in the 17 patients who were successfully cardioverted into sinus rhythm (p=0.003). In a stepwise multiple regression analysis, age (p=0.014), hyperlipidaemia (p=0.001) and use of statins (but not AF) was predictive of CPC counts (p=0.014). In conclusion, AF is unlikely to be independently associated with abnormalities in CPCs. Successful cardioversion is associated with a modest but significant increase in CPCs.
Genetic Regulation of Endothelial Inflammatory Responses in Baboons
Authors: Rainwater David L. , Shi Qiang , Mahaney Michael C. , Hodara Vida , VandeBerg John L. , Wang Xing Li
Published: May 2010

Objective—

To investigate the genetic contributions to the expression of cell surface adhesion molecules on endothelial cells (ECs) and to the release by ECs of chemokines, which are responsible for local inflammation.

Methods and Results—

Monocyte adhesion to ECs and transmigration across the endothelial barrier are the key steps in the formation of atherosclerotic plaques and the rupture of the existing plaques. Biopsy specimens were obtained from the femoral arteries of 131 pedigreed baboons (65 males and 66 females) aged 10.4±1.5 years (mean±SD); arterial ECs were harvested and cultured up to the second passage and then subjected to in vitro challenge with tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α, 10 ng/mL, or vehicle for 4 hours. Endothelial surface adhesion molecules were measured using flow cytometry, and chemokines released by the ECs were measured by immunoassay. In response to TNF-α treatment, interleukin 8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 released by ECs were increased 3.4- and 26-fold, respectively (
P
<0.001). The expressions of E-selectin, intercellular adhesion molecule-1, and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 were increased 12.2-, 41.4-, and 3.5-fold, respectively (
P
<0.001). The quantitative levels of several traits were heritable after TNF-α stimulation:
h
2
=0.24 (
P
=0.02) for interleukin 8 and
h
2
=0.28 (
P
=0.003) for E-selectin in culture medium;
h
2
=0.21 (
P
=0.03) for intercellular adhesion molecule-1; and
h
2
=0.37 (
P
<0.001) for vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 expression on EC surfaces. Furthermore, significant heritability was observed for lysate protein level, which is a measure of cell growth rate, with (
h
2
=0.64,
P
<0.001) or without (
h
2
=0.51,
P
<0.001) TNF-α stimulation.

Conclusion—

This study reports on the heritability of adhesion molecules in ECs when activated by TNF-α. This finding suggests genetic regulation of key arterial wall inflammatory processes that are responsible for the initiation of atherosclerotic lesions and the plaque rupture of existing atheromas.
Role of Heme Oxygenase-1 in Human Endothelial Cells
Authors: Taha Hevidar , Skrzypek Klaudia , Guevara Ibeth , Nigisch Anneliese , Mustafa Stefan , Grochot-Przeczek Anna , Ferdek Pawel , Was Halina , Kotlinowski Jerzy , Kozakowska Magdalena , Balcerczyk Aneta , Muchova Lucie , Vitek Libor , Weigel Guenter , Dulak Jozef , Jozkowicz Alicja
Published: May 2010

Objective—

Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is an antioxidative, antiinflammatory, and cytoprotective enzyme that is induced in response to cellular stress. The HO-1 promoter contains a (GT)n microsatellite DNA, and the number of GT repeats can influence the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. We elucidated the effect of this polymorphism on endothelial cells isolated from newborns of different genotypes.

Methods and Results—

On the basis of HO-1 expression, we classified the HO-1 promoter alleles into 3 groups: short (S) (most active, GT ≤23), medium (moderately active, GT=24 to 28), and long (least active, GT ≥29). The presence of the S allele led to higher basal HO-1 expression and stronger induction in response to cobalt protoporphyrin, prostaglandin-J
2
, hydrogen peroxide, and lipopolysaccharide. Cells carrying the S allele survived better under oxidative stress, a fact associated with the lower concentration of oxidized glutathione and more favorable oxidative status, as determined by measurement of the ratio of glutathione to oxidized glutathione. Moreover, they proliferated more efficiently in response to vascular endothelial growth factor A, although the vascular endothelial growth factor–induced migration and sprouting of capillaries were not influenced. Finally, the presence of the S allele was associated with lower production of some proinflammatory mediators, such as interleukin-1β, interleukin-6, and soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1.

Conclusion—

The (GT)n promoter polymorphism significantly modulates a cytoprotective, proangiogenic, and antiinflammatory function of HO-1 in human endothelium.
Nonhuman Animal Experiments in the European Community: Human Values and Rational Choice
Authors: Peggs Kay
Published: May 2010

In 2008, the European Community (EC) adopted a Proposal to revise the EC Directive on nonhuman animal experiments, with the aim of improving the welfare of the nonhuman animals used in experiments. An Impact Assessment, which gauges the likely economic and scientific effects of future changes, as well as the effects on nonhuman animal welfare, informs the Proposal. By using a discourse analytical approach, this paper examines the Directive, the Impact Assessment and the Proposal to reflect critically upon assumptions about the morality of nonhuman animal experiments. Because nonhuman animal welfare is so prominent in the Proposal, it appears that the EC position advances beyond human self-interest (orthodox rational choice) as the sole motivator for such experiments, to ethical questions about the welfare of nonhuman animals (which can be better explained by a multidimensional approach to rational choice). In examining this contention, this paper concludes that, even given concerns about nonhuman animal welfare, nonhuman animal experimentation in the EC is firmly grounded in a morality that focuses on human benefit goals rather than on the wider moral issues associated with the means of achieving such goals.
The Influence of Animal Advocacy Groups in State Courts of Last Resort
Authors: Tauber Steven
Published: May 2010

Since the 1970s, animal advocacy groups have attempted to improve the treatment of non-human animals by influencing public opinion and lobbying for legislation that protects animals. Empirical assessments of these efforts have reported mixed results. Animal advocacy groups also use litigation as a means of improving the treatment of nonhuman animals, but there has been limited empirical testing of the effectiveness of animal advocacy litigation. To fill this gap in the literature, this study examines the 188 animal law cases decided in state supreme courts from 1973 through 2005. It looks specifically at whether the participation of an animal advocacy organization increases the chance of a favorable decision, while controlling for legal and political influences on case outcomes. Logistic regression reveals that the presence of animal advocacy groups does not exert a statistically significant impact on case outcomes. Further analysis demonstrates, however, that animal advocacy groups are significantly more likely than nongroup litigators to pursue cases that are difficult to win.
Multiyear Statistics of 2D Shortwave Radiative Effects at Three ARM Sites
Authors: Várnai Tamás
Published: May 2010

This study examines the importance of horizontal photon transport effects, which are not considered in the 1D calculations of solar radiative heating used by most atmospheric dynamical models. In particular, the paper analyzes the difference between 2D and 1D radiative calculations for 2D vertical cross sections of clouds that were observed at three sites over 2–3-yr periods. The results show that 2D effects increase multiyear 24-h average total solar absorption by about 4.1, 1.2, and 0.3 W m−2 at tropical, midlatitude, and arctic sites, respectively. However, 2D effects are often much larger than these average values, especially for high sun and for convective clouds. The results also reveal a somewhat unexpected behavior, namely, that horizontal photon transport often enhances solar heating even for oblique sun. These findings underscore the need for fast radiation calculation methods that can allow atmospheric dynamical simulations to consider the inherently multidimensional nature of shortwave radiative processes.
The Probability Distribution of Sea Surface Wind Speeds: Effects of Variable Surface Stratification and Boundary Layer Thickness
Authors: Monahan Adam Hugh
Published: May 2010

Air–sea exchanges of momentum, energy, and material substances of fundamental importance to the variability of the climate system are mediated by the character of the turbulence in the atmospheric and oceanic boundary layers. Sea surface winds influence, and are influenced by, these fluxes. The probability density function (pdf) of sea surface wind speeds p(w) is a mathematical object describing the variability of surface winds that arises from the physics of the turbulent atmospheric planetary boundary layer. Previous mechanistic models of the pdf of sea surface wind speeds have considered the momentum budget of an atmospheric layer of fixed thickness and neutral stratification. The present study extends this analysis, using an idealized model to consider the influence of boundary layer thickness variations and nonneutral surface stratification on p(w). It is found that surface stratification has little direct influence on p(w), while variations in boundary layer thickness bring the predictions of the model into closer agreement with the observations. Boundary layer thickness variability influences the shape of p(w) in two ways: through episodic downward mixing of momentum into the boundary layer from the free atmosphere and through modulation of the importance (relative to other tendencies) of turbulent momentum fluxes at the surface and the boundary layer top. It is shown that the second of these influences dominates over the first.
A Novel Method for the Homogenization of Daily Temperature Series and Its Relevance for Climate Change Analysis
Authors: Toreti Andrea , Kuglitsch Franz G. , Xoplaki Elena , Luterbacher Jürg , Wanner Heinz
Published: May 2010

Instrumental daily series of temperature are often affected by inhomogeneities. Several methods are available for their correction at monthly and annual scales, whereas few exist for daily data. Here, an improved version of the higher-order moments (HOM) method, the higher-order moments for autocorrelated data (HOMAD), is proposed. HOMAD addresses the main weaknesses of HOM, namely, data autocorrelation and the subjective choice of regression parameters. Simulated series are used for the comparison of both methodologies. The results highlight and reveal that HOMAD outperforms HOM for small samples. Additionally, three daily temperature time series from stations in the eastern Mediterranean are used to show the impact of homogenization procedures on trend estimation and the assessment of extremes. HOMAD provides an improved correction of daily temperature time series and further supports the use of corrected daily temperature time series prior to climate change assessment.
A Novel Integration of an Ultraviolet Nitrate Sensor On Board a Towed Vehicle for Mapping Open-Ocean Submesoscale Nitrate Variability
Authors: Pidcock Rosalind , Srokosz Meric , Allen John , Hartman Mark , Painter Stuart , Mowlem Matt , Hydes David , Martin Adrian
Published: May 2010

Initial results from a deployment of the SUV-6 ultraviolet spectrophotometer, integrated with the SeaSoar towed vehicle, are presented. The innovative, combined system measures nitrate concentration at high spatial resolution (4 m vertically, 5 km horizontally), high sensitivity (0.2 μM), and concomitantly with temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen. The authors demonstrate that this approach constitutes a powerful new tool for quantifying the role of mesoscale and submesoscale vertical nutrient fluxes to the euphotic zone, using measurements from a high-resolution survey of an eddy dipole in the Iceland Basin during the summer of 2007.
Low-Level Easterly Winds Blowing through the Tsugaru Strait, Japan. Part I: Case Study and Statistical Characteristics Based on Observations
Authors: Shimada Teruhisa , Sawada Masahiro , Sha Weiming , Kawamura Hiroshi
Published: May 2010

This study has investigated structures and diurnal variations of the easterly surface winds blowing throughout the east–west passage comprising the Tsugaru Strait, Mutsu Bay, and circumjacent terrestrial gaps in northern Japan during the summer months. Based on observational and reanalysis data, a representative case study in June 2003 and supplemental statistical analyses are presented. The cool easterly winds accompanied by clouds and fog are blocked by the central mountain range. This condition increases an along-strait sea level pressure (SLP) gradient, which induces strong winds in the west of the strait. The along-strait SLP gradient is enhanced by the developed Okhotsk high and by low pressure systems passing along the southern coast of Japan or over the Japan Sea. Stronger (weaker) and easterly (east-northeasterly) winds are observed during the nighttime (daytime), corresponding to the cool air intrusion from the east (retreat from west). Differences in SLP observed at meteorological observation stations on the east and west can be a good indicator of wind speed in the west of the strait. Meanwhile, the winds over the land also show diurnal variations specific to the times of the prevailing cool easterly winds. The easterly winds over the land are stronger and more divergent across the strait during the daytime than nighttime. This indicates the possibility that the diurnal wind variations are thermally induced. Reduction of diurnal air temperature changes in the east increases east–west thermal contrast. Additionally, the cool air over the strait and the bay can enhance land–sea thermal contrast across the coast.
Aging and the Questionable Validity of Recognition-Based Exposure Measurement
Authors: Southwell Brian G. , Gilkerson Nathan D. , Depue Jacob B. , Shelton Ashleigh K. , Friedenberg Laura M. , Koutstaal Wilma
Published: May 2010

Growing evidence suggests that basic exposure measures, such as recognition-based items, might not operate identically among older and younger adults. We present two studies relevant to this debate. Study 1 provides experimental confirmation of the recognition decline hypothesis, finding an interaction between age and exposure in predicting recognition memory for an advertisement related to global warming. Study 2 assesses television news project evaluation data to explore whether verbatim detail recognition difficulty explains Study 1 results. The two studies provide complementary evidence, not only illustrating recognition decline among the elderly but also providing careful control of exposure in Study 1 and the use of multiple messages, realistic viewing scenarios, and free recall data in Study 2. Taken together, the studies offer a cautionary tale for campaign evaluators. On a broader theoretical level, the results suggest a fruitful path for communication research focused on the nuanced and potentially critical moderating role of age.
Domain-wide or variable-dependent vulnerability of the semantics—syntax interface in L2 acquisition? Evidence from wh-words used as existential polarity words in L2 Chinese grammars
Authors: Boping Yuan
Published: May 2010

Most studies in the second language (L2) literature that deal with interface issues do so in holistic terms. On the one hand, researchers have suggested that interface relations between the syntax and other domains are particularly difficult for adult L2 learners. On the other, it has been argued that such relations can be established in a native-like way, even when no clear positive evidence is readily available in the input. In both cases researchers have treated the issue in a domain-wide fashion. However, the domain-wide approach is not supported by the study reported in this aricle, which examines the role of the semantics—syntax interface in the representation of wh-words as existential polarity words (EPWs) in the L2 Chinese grammars of English and Japanese speakers. The results suggest that the semantics—syntax interface can be established between the EPWs and some of their potential licensers in L2 Chinese grammars, but not others. This indicates that L2 learners’ success or failure in acquiring the interface is not domain-wide. A variable-dependent account is proposed for the results, arguing that success or failure in establishing interface relations in L2 grammars is likely to depend on a number of variables, including the categorial nature of individual elements involved in the interface relationship, the status of these elements in the target language speaker’s grammar, the input that learners are exposed to, and cross-linguistic influence.
Adult learners’ retention of collocations from exposure
Authors: Durrant Philip , Schmitt Norbert
Published: May 2010

Formulaic language is widely recognized to be of central importance to fluent and idiomatic language use. However, the mechanics of how formulaic language is acquired are not well understood. Some researchers (e.g. Nick Ellis) believe that the chunking inherent in formulaic language drives the language learning process. Others (e.g. Wray) claim that adult second language learners take an essentially non-formulaic approach to language learning, analysing their input into individual words and not retaining information about what words appear together. If the second model is right, it represents a crucial difference between child first and adult second language learning. This ‘non-formulaic’ model is tested here through a lab-based study of collocation learning. Our findings indicate that, contrary to the model, adult second language learners do retain information about what words appear together in their input. This suggests that any shortfall in non-natives’ knowledge of collocational associations between words is due to inadequate input, rather than a non-nativelike approach to learning. The study also examines the effects of different forms of repetition on collocation acquisition and draws conclusions regarding pedagogical activities for learning.
Murder and Madness
Authors: Facchi Lara , Gattoni Tito , Cemmi Chiara , Straticò Ettore
Published: May 2010

This article presents a case of dual murder committed by a person having a narcissistic personality disorder with traits of borderline personality disorder. The man, who had no previous problem with the justice system and had never shown any aggressive behaviour, stabbed to death his lover who was leaving him and, a week later, killed his own son. Through weekly clinical sessions over a period of 11 months, the analysis of the crime dynamics, the criminogenesis, and psychodynamics of the two murders allowed the reconstruction of the offender’s psychopathological frame of mind and, in particular, the hypothesis of a symbolic connection between the homicides: The first appears to have been the result of an act of power and control in order to heal his narcissistic wound, whereas the second was due to his need to expiate the first crime and so could be interpreted as a suicide by proxy.
Marxian theories of money, credit and crisis
Authors: Lucarelli Bill
Published: May 2010

The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of recent interpretations of the essential properties of capitalist money within the Marxian literature. It argues that Marx’s original theory of money provides a coherent analytical framework by which more recent theories of endogenous money and credit creation can be assimilated. It distinguishes the various forms and functions of money and how these have evolved historically, and proposes that the original Marxian theory of commodity money provides a sound foundation with which to interpret the emergence of finance capital and monetary circuits of credit. Given this it is thus possible to examine the modern dynamics of recurrent financial crises from the standpoint of the general laws of capital accumulation.
Repair of Chronic Osteochondral Defects Using Predifferentiated Mesenchymal Stem Cells in an Ovine Model
Authors: Zscharnack Matthias , Hepp Pierre , Richter Robert , Aigner Thomas , Schulz Ronny , Somerson Jeremy , Josten Christoph , Bader Augustinus , Marquass Bastian
Published: May 2010

Background: The use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to treat osteochondral defects caused by sports injuries or disease is of particular interest. However, there is a lack of studies in large-animal models examining the benefits of chondrogenic predifferentiation in vitro for repair of chronic osteochondral defects.

Hypothesis: Chondrogenic in vitro predifferentiation of autologous MSCs embedded in a collagen I hydrogel currently in clinical trial use for matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte transplantation facilitates the regeneration of a chronic osteochondral defect in an ovine stifle joint.

Study Design: Controlled laboratory study.

Methods: The optimal predifferentiation period of ovine MSCs within the type I collagen hydrogel in vitro was defined by assessment of several cellular and molecular biological parameters. For the animal study, osteochondral lesions (diameter 7 mm) were created at the medial femoral condyles of the hind legs in 10 merino sheep. To achieve a chronic defect model, implantation of the ovine MSCs/hydrogel constructs was not performed until 6 weeks after defect creation. The 40 defects were divided into 4 treatment groups: (1) chondrogenically predifferentiated ovine MSC/hydrogel constructs (preMSC-gels), (2) undifferentiated ovine MSC/hydrogel constructs (unMSC-gels), (3) cell-free collagen hydrogels (CF-gels), and (4) untreated controls (UCs). Evaluation followed after 6 months.

Results: With regard to proteoglycan content, cell count, gel contraction, apoptosis, compressive properties, and progress of chondrogenic differentiation, a differentiation period of 14 days in vitro was considered optimal. After 6 months in vivo, the defects treated with preMSC-gels showed significantly better histologic scores with morphologic characteristics of hyaline cartilage such as columnarization and presence of collagen type II.

Conclusion: Matrix-associated autologous chondrocyte transplantation with predifferentiated MSCs may be a promising approach for repair of focal, chronic osteochondral defects.

Clinical Relevance: The results suggest an encouraging method for future treatment of focal osteochondral defects to prevent progression to osteoarthritis.
Why Bob Geldof has got it wrong
Authors: Franks Suzanne
Published: May 2010

“Natural” disasters rarely fit the pre-packaged concepts of the media, writes an expert on Ethiopia and the aid that went astray
Couldn’t make it up? Wanna bet?
Authors: Davis Victor
Published: May 2010

Tweak, tweak, tweak, we went, recalls a long-time seeker of the truth. And it seems the press can still be the mother of invention
The cultural authority of science: Public trust and acceptance of organized science
Authors: Gauchat Gordon
Published: May 2010

Using the National Science Foundation’s 2006 Science Indicators Survey, this study explores three distinct explanations of public attitudes. First, the knowledge–attitudes model refers to a well tested relationship between public knowledge of science and more favorable attitudes toward science. Second, the alienation model hypothesizes that public disassociation with science is a symptom of a general disenchantment with late modernity, mainly, the limitations associated with codified expertise, rational bureaucracy, and institutional authority. A third approach emphasizes the cultural meaning of science: how various public beliefs about “what science is” relate to acceptance or reservations about science. The Science Indicators Survey shows that US adults view science (what it is or should be) in three distinct ways: 1) in terms of having a systematic method, 2) in terms of social location (i.e., takes place in a university or a laboratory), and 3) in terms of knowledge that should accord with commonsense and tradition. The findings in this study indicate that the knowledge–attitudes, alienation, and cultural meanings models are all valuable for understanding the cultural authority of science. However, the strength of these explanations depends on the type of attitude analyzed.
Science, the public, and social elites: How the general public, scientists, top politicians and managers perceive science
Authors: Prpić Katarina
Published: May 2010

This paper finds that the Croatian public’s and the social elites’ perceptions of science are a mixture of scientific and technological optimism, of the tendency to absolve science of social responsibility, of skepticism about the social effects of science, and of cognitive optimism and skepticism. However, perceptions differ significantly according to the different social roles and the wider value system of the observed groups.The survey data show some key similarities, as well as certain specificities in the configuration of the types of views of the four groups – the public, scientists, politicians and managers. The results suggest that the well-known typology of the four cultures reveals some of the ideologies of the key actors of scientific and technological policy. The greatest social, primarily educational and socio-spatial, differentiation of the perceptions of science was found in the general public.
Investigating CSI: Portrayals of DNA testing on a forensic crime show and their potential effects
Authors: Ley Barbara L. , Jankowski Natalie , Brewer Paul R.
Published: May 2010

The popularity of forensic crime shows such as CSI has fueled debate about their potential social impact. This study considers CSI’s potential effects on public understandings regarding DNA testing in the context of judicial processes, the policy debates surrounding crime laboratory procedures, and the forensic science profession, as well as an effect not discussed in previous accounts: namely, the show’s potential impact on public understandings of DNA and genetics more generally. To develop a theoretical foundation for research on the “ CSI effect,” it draws on cultivation theory, social cognitive theory, and audience reception studies. It then uses content analysis and textual analysis to illuminate how the show depicts DNA testing. The results demonstrate that CSI tends to depict DNA testing as routine, swift, useful, and reliable and that it echoes broader discourses about genetics. At times, however, the show suggests more complex ways of thinking about DNA testing and genetics.
Rhetoric, power and legitimacy: A critical analysis of the public policy disputes surrounding stem cell research in Australia (2005–6)
Authors: Lysaght Tamra , Kerridge Ian
Published: May 2010

In December 2006, the Australian Parliament liberalized regulation governing stem cell research. This decision and preceding legislative review generated considerable public debate, which centred on objections to the deliberate creation and destruction of human embryos for research purposes. This paper draws on qualitative research conducted on the public debate surrounding this policy episode. The aim of this research was to examine how science and scientific knowledge are mobilized by participants in these debates to support their arguments. Data were collected from 109 newspaper opinion editorials as well as 23 in-depth interviews and examined using qualitative content and thematic analysis. Results of this analysis depict science as a rhetorical, moral and political resource that provides opportunities for participants to gain legitimacy, negotiate meaning and assert authority in the public domain. The mobilization of science in public discourse is discussed along with suggestions that are aimed at encouraging greater transparency and inclusiveness in public debates around contested science and emergent technologies.
A Brief Review of Stimulus-active Polymers Responsive to Thermal, Light, Magnetic, Electric, and Water/Solvent Stimuli
Authors: Meng Harper , Jinlian Hu
Published: May 2010

Stimulus-active polymers can vary their shapes (configuration or dimension) or produce mechanical power in response to external stimuli such as heat, electricity, light, magnetic field, and water. In the past decade, many breakthroughs have been made in developing stimulus-active polymers with novel stimulus-active mechanisms. With proper designing, complicated movements such as swimming, inchworm walking, rotation, and bending can be achieved. Stimulus-active polymers can be applied in a wide range of areas from hi-tech areas to daily life. A few papers have been written on specific type of stimulus-active polymers, but have not covered all stimulus-active polymers. Hence, this article aims to present a brief overview of the different mechanisms and fabrication strategies of typical stimulus-active polymers. The various applications of different stimulus-active polymers are also briefly summarized in the article.
Learning to be surprised: How to foster reflective practice in a high-reliability context
Authors: Jordan Silvia
Published: May 2010

Reflection-in-action is often emphasized as a critical ingredient of professional practice, especially in complex and novel situations that call for high situational awareness. Relatively little is known, however, about how organizations can actively foster such a reflective attitude and about the challenges that may be encountered when trying to do so. This article investigates how an anaesthesiology department uses organizational practices to help novice nurses become reflective practitioners. Different practices foster reflection-in-action in different ways, addressing different dimensions of the reflective attitude. The study also provides evidence on factors that are likely to impede this learning process, most notably the mediation by goal conflicts and power relations. Overall, the paper contributes to a deeper understanding of how organizations can go about fostering reflection-in-action.
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution: The Need for Transdisciplinarity
Authors: Galtung Johan
Published: May 2010

Peace studies seeks to understand the negation of violence through conflict transformation, cooperation and harmony by drawing from many disciplines, including psychology, sociology and anthropology, political science, economics, international relations, international law and history. This raises the problem of the complementarity, coexistence and integration of different systems of knowledge. In fact, all of the human and social sciences are products of the post-Westphalian state system and so reify the state and its internal and international system and focus on this as the main source of political conflict. Conflicts, however, can arise from other distinctions involving gender, generation, race, class and so on. To contribute to peace building and conflict resolution, the social sciences must be globalized, developing theories that address conflicts at the levels of interpersonal interaction ( micro), within countries ( meso), between nations ( macro ), and between whole regions or civilizations ( mega). Psychiatry and the “psy” disciplines can contribute to peace building and conflict resolution through understanding the interactions between processes at each of these levels and the mental health or illness of individuals.
Psychic Centrality: Reflections on Two Psychohistoriographic Cultural Therapy Workshops in Montreal
Authors: Hickling Frederick W. , Guzder Jaswant , Robertson-Hickling Hilary , Snow Stephen , Kirmayer Laurence J.
Published: May 2010

The use of psychohistoriographic cultural therapy (PCT) developed in Jamaica is described in the context of two workshops in Montreal. PCT is a form of group intervention that seeks to elicit and clarify the “psychic centrality” of a group. Psychic centrality refers to a sense of psychological containment or organization of diverse individual points of view through creating a historical map of collective experience. In PCT, this collective map is constructed and techniques borrowed from creative arts therapies are used to develop a performance. This performance provides additional containment and fosters a group process that can contain collective conflicts. The performance can also be used to engage an audience, working to contain conflict while representing diverse perspectives within the group. Factors that may contribute to the effectiveness of PCT and those that may derail the process are identified through the systematic comparison of the two workshops. PCT was demonstrated to cross successfully from a Third to a First World culture, and established potential as a method to facilitate group conflict resolution and for the promotion of pluralistic civil societies.
Dr Ravi L. Kapur (1938-2006): A Psychiatrist at the Crossroads of Multiple Worlds
Authors: Bibeau Gilles , Corin Ellen
Published: May 2010

This article reviews the life and work of Dr Ravi L. Kapur, a seminal figure in the fields of social and community psychiatry in India. Kapur made significant contributions to the understanding of the role of spirituality in psychology and psychotherapy and the psychological dynamics of sectarian violence.
Effect of aging on work hardening behaviour of cold rolled Nimonic C-263 alloy
Authors: Ankamma K , Satyanarayana D V V , Sarkar R , Reddy G C M , Komaraiah M , Eswara Prasad N
Published: May 2010

Experimental true stress–true strain data of Nimonic C-263 alloy in solution treated as well as aged condition have been analysed using different flow relationships. Ludwigson relationship provides the best fit of the data for all the conditions investigated. The transition in macroscopic flow behaviour of the alloy with plastic strain, in solution treated condition, can be correlated with the transition in deformation mode from low strain regime to high strain regime. Although aging does not appear to alter the macroscopic flow behaviour, it causes a considerable change in flow parameters of the Ludwigson relationship and substructural evolution. On the other hand, the effect of sheet thickness is marginal. The flow data of the aged alloys fitted according to Ludwigson model not only yield a unique set of flow parameters for each aging condition but also exhibit a systematic trend with aging time. The transition in macroscopic flow behaviour of the alloy with strain, in aged conditions, can be correlated with a change in dislocation mechanism from dislocation–precipitate interaction at lower strains to dislocation–dislocation interaction at higher strains leading to formation of a dense dislocation tangled networks in the matrix regions surrounding the precipitates. The alloy in both solution treated and aged conditions exhibits three fairly distinct stages of strain hardening. The strain hardening rate decreases in regime I, remains constant in regime II and begins to fall again in regime III. Furthermore, it is observed that the alloy specimen with longitudinal orientation (L, i.e. parallel to rolling direction), exhibits marginally highest strain hardening rates, while specimens with long transverse orientation exhibit lowest strain hardening rates both in solution treated and aged conditions. However, for all other in-plane orientations (i.e. L+30°, L+45° and L+60°), the strain hardening rate data are fairly very close and lie in between those of longitudinal and long transverse orientations.
Concurrent visualization of trafficking, expansion, and activation of T lymphocytes and T-cell precursors in vivo
Authors: Na Il-Kang , Markley John C. , Tsai Jennifer J. , Yim Nury L. , Beattie Bradley J. , Klose Alexander D. , Holland Amanda M. , Ghosh Arnab , Rao Uttam K. , Stephan Matthias T. , Serganova Inna , Santos Elmer B. , Brentjens Renier J. , Blasberg Ronald G. , Sadelain Michel , van den Brink Marcel R. M.
Published: May 2010

We have developed a dual bioluminescent reporter system allowing noninvasive, concomitant imaging of T-cell trafficking, expansion, and activation of nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) in vivo. NFAT activation plays an important role in T-cell activation and T-cell development. Therefore we used this system to determine spatial-temporal activation patterns of (1) proliferating T lymphocytes during graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) and (2) T-cell precursors during T-cell development after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). In the first days after HSCT, donor T cells migrated to the peripheral lymph nodes and the intestines, whereas the NFAT activation was dominant in the intestines, suggesting an important role for the intestines in the early stages of alloactivation during development of GVHD. After adoptive transfer of in vitro-derived T-cell receptor (TCR) H-Y transgenic T-cell precursors into B6 (H-2b) hosts of both sexes, NFAT signaling and development into CD4+ or CD8+ single-positive cells could only be detected in the thymus of female recipients indicating either absence of positive selection or prompt depletion of double-positive thymocytes in the male recipients. Because NFAT plays an important role in a wide range of cell types, our system could provide new insights into a variety of biologic processes.
Observation versus antiplatelet therapy as primary prophylaxis for thrombosis in low-risk essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Alvarez-Larrán Alberto , Cervantes Francisco , Pereira Arturo , Arellano-Rodrigo Eduardo , Pérez-Andreu Virginia , Hernández-Boluda Juan-Carlos , Ayats Ramón , Salvador Carlos , Muntañola Ana , Bellosillo Beatriz , Vicente Vicente , Hernández-Nieto Luis , Burgaleta Carmen , Xicoy Blanca , Besses Carlos
Published: May 2010

The effectiveness of antiplatelet therapy as primary prophylaxis for thrombosis in low-risk essential thrombocythemia (ET) is not proven. In this study, the incidence rates of arterial and venous thrombosis were retrospectively analyzed in 300 low-risk patients with ET treated with antiplatelet drugs as monotherapy (n = 198) or followed with careful observation (n = 102). Follow-up was 802 and 848 person-years for antiplatelet therapy and observation, respectively. Rates of thrombotic events were 21.2 and 17.7 per 1000 person-years for antiplatelet therapy and observation, respectively (P = .6). JAK2 V617F–positive patients not receiving antiplatelet medication showed an increased risk of venous thrombosis (incidence rate ratio [IRR]: 4.0; 95% CI: 1.2-12.9; P = .02). Patients with cardiovascular risk factors had increased rates of arterial thrombosis while on observation (IRR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.02-6.1; P = .047). An increased risk of major bleeding was observed in patients with platelet count greater than 1000 × 109/L under antiplatelet therapy (IRR: 5.4; 95% CI: 1.7-17.2; P = .004). In conclusion, antiplatelet therapy reduces the incidence of venous thrombosis in patients with JAK2-positive ET and the rate of arterial thrombosis in patients with associated cardiovascular risk factors. In the remaining low-risk patients, this therapy is not effective as primary prophylaxis of thrombosis, and observation may be an adequate option.
Altered neuronatin expression in the rat dorsal root ganglion after sciatic nerve transection
Authors: Chen Kuan-Hung , Yang Chien-Hui , Cheng Jiin-Tsuey , Wu Chih-Hsien , Sy Wei-Dih , Lin Chung-Ren
Published: May 2010

Background

Several molecular changes occur following axotomy, such as gene up-regulation and down-regulation. In our previous study using Affymetrix arrays, it was found that after the axotomy of sciatic nerve, there were many novel genes with significant expression changes. Among them, neuronatin (Nnat) was the one which expression was significantly up-regulated. Nnat was identified as a gene selectively expressed in neonatal brains and markedly reduced in adult brains. The present study investigated whether the expression of Nnat correlates with symptoms of neuropathic pain in adult rats with transected sciatic nerve.

Methods

Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and the Randall and Selitto test were used to study the protein content, and subcellular localization of Nnat in correlation with pain-related animal behavior.

Results

It was found that after nerve injury, the expression of Nnat was increased in total protein extracts. Unmyelinated C-fiber and thinly myelinated A-δ fiber in adult dorsal root ganglions (DRGs) were the principal sub-population of primary afferent neurons with distributed Nnat. The increased expression of Nnat and its subcellular localization were related to mechanical hyperalgesia.

Conclusions

The results indicated that there was significant correlation between mechanical hyperalgesia in axotomy of sciatic nerve and the increased expression of Nnat in C-fiber and A-δ fiber of adult DRG neurons.