bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct Subtypes of Cholecystokinin (CCK)-Containing Interneurons of the Basolateral Amygdala Identified Using a CCK Promoter-Specific Lentivirus
Authors: Jasnow Aaron M. , Ressler Kerry J. , Hammack Sayamwong E. , Chhatwal Jasmeer P. , Rainnie Donald G.
Published: January 2009

The basolateral amygdala (BLA) is critical for the formation of emotional memories. Little is known about the physiological properties of BLA interneurons, which can be divided into four subtypes based on their immunocytochemical profiles. Cholecystokinin (CCK) interneurons play critical roles in feedforward inhibition and behavioral fear responses. Evidence suggests that interneurons within a subgroup can display heterogeneous physiological properties. However, little is known about the physiological properties of CCK interneurons in the BLA and/or whether they represent a homogeneous or heterogeneous population. To address this question, we generated a lentivirus-expressing GFP under the control of the CCK promoter to identify CCK neurons in vivo. We combined this with whole cell patch-clamp recording techniques to examine the physiological properties of CCK-containing interneurons of the rat BLA. Here, we describe the physiological properties of 57 cells recorded in current-clamp mode; we used hierarchical cluster and discriminant function analysis to demonstrate that CCK interneurons can be segregated into three distinct subtypes (I, II, III) based on their passive and active membrane properties. Additionally, Type II neurons could be further separated into adapting and nonadapting types based on their rates of spike frequency adaptation. These data suggest that CCK interneurons of the BLA are a heterogeneous population and may be functionally distinct subpopulations that differentially contribute to the processing of emotionally salient stimuli.
Triggering Slow Waves During NREM Sleep in the Rat by Intracortical Electrical Stimulation: Effects of Sleep/Wake History and Background Activity
Authors: Vyazovskiy Vladyslav V. , Faraguna Ugo , Cirelli Chiara , Tononi Giulio
Published: January 2009

In humans, non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep slow waves occur not only spontaneously but can also be induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation. Here we investigated whether slow waves can also be induced by intracortical electrical stimulation during sleep in rats. Intracortical local field potential (LFP) recordings were obtained from several cortical locations while the frontal or the parietal area was stimulated intracortically with brief (0.1 ms) electrical pulses. Recordings were performed in early sleep (1st 2–3 h after light onset) and late sleep (6–8 h after light onset). The stimuli reliably triggered LFP potentials that were visually indistinguishable from naturally occurring slow waves. The induced slow waves shared the following features with spontaneous slow waves: they were followed by spindling activity in the same frequency range (∼15 Hz) as spontaneously occurring sleep spindles; they propagated through the neocortex from the area of the stimulation; and compared with late sleep, waves triggered during early sleep were larger, had steeper slopes and fewer multipeaks. Peristimulus background spontaneous activity had a profound influence on the amplitude of the induced slow waves: they were virtually absent if the stimulus was delivered immediately after the spontaneous slow wave. These results show that in the rat a volley of electrical activity that is sufficiently strong to excite and recruit a large cortical neuronal population is capable of inducing slow waves during natural sleep.
Translating an Evidence-Based Intervention for Pediatric Overweight to a Primary Care Setting
Authors: Ewing Linda J. , Cluss Patricia , Goldstrohm Sheri , Ulrich Richard , Colborn Kathleen , Cipriani Lynne , Wald Ellen R.
Published: January 2009

The objective of this study was to train pediatric providers to address weight, body mass index (BMI), diet, and physical activity with parents. Children aged 8 to 12 years with BMI of ≥85th percentile were eligible if accompanied by a parent. The intervention was a family-based, 11-session behavioral program focusing on healthy eating and physical activity. Outcome measures were weight and BMI. Seventy-three child—parent dyads enrolled. Children who attended at least 6 of 8 intervention sessions and 1 of 3 follow-up sessions (completers) lost an average of 2.84 lb; change in BMI z scores was statistically significant at 5 months ( P < .001). Primary care providers can acquire skills to increase their confidence in approaching children and parents regarding weight and BMI. Parents and children will attend an intervention targeting healthy weight in the pediatric practice. Professional office staff can be trained to provide an evidence-informed intervention that promotes healthy weight.
Physician Communication Regarding Cost When Prescribing Asthma Medication to Children
Authors: Patel Minal R. , Coffman Janet M. , Tseng Chien-Wen , Clark Noreen M. , Cabana Michael D.
Published: January 2009

Children with asthma require multiple medications, and cost may be a barrier to care. The purpose of this study was to determine how often physicians ask about cost when prescribing new asthma medication and to identify factors influencing queries. We surveyed pediatricians and family physicians and asked whether they asked about cost when prescribing new asthma medication and if cost was a barrier to prescribing. One third of physicians (35%) reported that concern for cost to the family was a barrier to prescribing. Half reported not asking their patients about drug costs. Pediatricians were less likely to ask about cost (odds ratio [OR] = 0.43; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.20-0.92) when compared with family physicians. For every 10% increase in the number of privately insured patients, a physician was less likely to ask about cost (OR = 0.83; 95% CI = 0.74-0.94). Communication about medication costs should be included in childhood asthma management.
Tensile and Knot Performance of Polyester Braided Sutures
Authors: Ben Abdessalem Saber , Debbabi Faten , Jedda Hanen , Elmarzougui Saber , Mokhtar Sofiene
Published: January 2009

The success of a suture is generally linked to its mechanical performance such as tensile strength and knot slippage. The measurement of the tensile properties of sutures suffers from the absence of an international standard test method. In this paper, we present an experimental procedure for the measurement of mechanical parameters and knot slippage of braided sutures made of polyester fibers. The effect of braid angle on tensile and knot performance was studied, and a slippage ratio obtained from load-extension curves was defined. The variation of braid angle had an important influence on breaking load and elongation of the suture. The presence of a knot lowered the breaking load and the rupture occurred consistently at the knot region. The slippage ratio permitted the comparison of the resistance to slippage of different types of knot.
An Artificial Neural Network Model for the Prediction of Spirality of Fully Relaxed Single Jersey Fabrics
Authors: Murrells Charlotte Marion , Xiao Ming Tao  , Bin Gang Xu  , Cheng Kwok Po Stephen
Published: January 2009

The present paper proposes an artificial neural network model for the prediction of the degree of spirality of single jersey fabrics made from 100 % cotton conventional and modified ring spun yarns. The factors investigated were the yarn residual torque as the measured twist liveliness, yarn type, yarn linear density, fabric tightness factor, the number of feeders, rotational direction and gauge of the knitting machine and dyeing method. The artificial neural network model was compared with a multiple regression model, demonstrating that the neural network model produced superior results to predict the degree of fabric spirality after three washing and drying cycles. The relative importance of the investigated factors influencing the spirality of the fabric was also investigated.
Differential Impact of Involuntary Job Loss on Physical Disability Among Older Workers
Authors: Gallo William T. , Brand Jennie E. , Teng Hsun-Mei , Leo-Summers Linda , Byers Amy L.
Published: January 2009

Older workers' share of involuntary job losses in the United States has grown fairly consistently in recent decades, prompting greater interest in the health consequences of involuntary unemployment among individuals nearing retirement. In this study, the authors applied the multifactorial model of geriatric health to investigate whether late-career involuntary job loss was associated with subsequent physical disability and whether the effect of involuntary job loss on physical disability varied by predisposition. Using data from the first four waves (1992 to 1998) of the Health and Retirement Survey, the authors measured predisposition with individual risk factors for functional disability and indices of aggregate risk. The results of gender-specific models fit with generalized estimating equations revealed that unmarried women and those with low predisplacement incomes had heightened risk for subsequent functional disability. No differential effects of job loss were found for men.
Knowledge Practices in Design: The Role of Visual Representations as `Epistemic Objects'
Authors: Ewenstein Boris , Whyte Jennifer
Published: January 2009

We use a detailed study of the knowledge work around visual representations to draw attention to the multidimensional nature of `objects'. Objects are variously described in the literatures as relatively stable or in flux; as abstract or concrete; and as used within or across practices. We clarify these dimensions, drawing on and extending the literature on boundary objects, and connecting it with work on epistemic and technical objects. In particular, we highlight the epistemic role of objects, using our observations of knowledge work on an architectural design project to show how, in this setting, visual representations are characterized by a `lack' or incompleteness that precipitates unfolding. The conceptual design of a building involves a wide range of technical, social and aesthetic forms of knowledge that need to be developed and aligned. We explore how visual representations are used, and how these are meaningful to different stakeholders, eliciting their distinct contributions. As the project evolves and the drawings change, new issues and needs for knowledge work arise. These objects have an `unfolding ontology' and are constantly in flux, rather than fully formed. We discuss the implications for wider understandings of objects in organizations and for how knowledge work is achieved in practice.
Struggling with Lack: A Lacanian Perspective on Organizational Identity
Authors: Driver Michaela
Published: January 2009

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to research on organizational identity by developing a psychoanalytic perspective. In particular, the author draws on Lacanian theorizing to explore how organizational identity discourse is informed by imaginary constructions of subjectivity. It is proposed that the collective construction of coherent, unitary, and definably organizational identity discourse is validated by and validates conscious but illusory constructions of the self. The resulting discourse is inevitably disrupted by unconscious subjectivity and invariably fails. Therefore, the collective construction of fragmented, dynamic, and emergent organizational identity discourse is equally inevitable. While such discourse can be illusory, it also contains the opportunity for engaging in liberating struggles with identity as lack. The implications of this perspective for the theory and practice of organizational identity are discussed.
Young Men's Physical Activity Choices
Authors: Lee Jessica , Macdonald Doune , Wright Jan
Published: January 2009

This article draws on data from an Australian longitudinal study into the place and meaning of physical activity and physical culture in the lives of young people. The aim of the national study is to add meaning to the statistics based on quantitative surveys that suggest a declining participation rate and satisfaction of young people in organized sports, recreational physical activities, and exercise. Frequently, socioeconomic status, gender, and geography are used as explanatory variables. In this article, the authors aim to provide an alternative reading of the statistical patterns by exploring how differences in capital (economic, social, and cultural) are played out in the lives of four young Australian males. The authors argue that schooling, geographical location, and access to capital play important roles in the intersection among masculinities, participation in physical activity, and engagement with physical culture.
Second language research using magnetoencephalography: a review
Authors: Schmidt Gwen L. , Roberts Timothy P.L.
Published: January 2009

In this review we show how magnetoencephalography (MEG) is a constructive tool for language research and review MEG findings in second language (L2) research. MEG is the magnetic analog of electroencephalography (EEG), and its primary advantage over other cross-sectional (e.g. magnetic resonance imaging, or positron emission tomography) functional imaging methods is the superior temporal resolution it affords. After an overview of MEG technology, research exploring visual language processing in L2, nonnative phonemic contrasts and syntactic processing in L2 are reviewed. We also review MEG investigations of the advantages of bilingualism and of language lateralization differences across languages with different characteristics.
Effects of pulmonary rehabilitation on fatigue, functional status and health perceptions in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Theander Kersti , Jakobsson Per , Jörgensen Nils , Unosson Mitra
Published: January 2009

Objective: To test the effects of pulmonary rehabilitation on fatigue, functional status and health perceptions in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Design: Randomized controlled trial.

Setting: Pulmonary outpatient department.

Subjects: Thirty patients randomly assigned to a rehabilitation (3 men, 9 women, mean age 66 (±2) years) or a control group (10 men, 4 women, mean age 64 (±2) years).

Interventions: The patients in the rehabilitation group participated in a multidisciplinary rehabilitation programme comprising exercise training twice weekly, for a 12-week period, nutritional and self-care advice, and education about disease and energy conservation strategies.

Main measures: Fatigue, functional limitations due to fatigue, functional performance and satisfaction, six-minute walking distance, hand grip strength and health perception were assessed at baseline and after 12 weeks.

Results: At baseline there were no significant differences between the groups, except for gender. The six-minute walking distance was 312.6 (±79.3) m for the rehabilitation group and 360.3 (±84.7) m for the control group. After 12 weeks, the rehabilitation group improved their walking distance by 40.6 (±27.2) m (P<0.05). The rehabilitation group improved in performance (from 4.8 (±2.0) to 6.0 (±1.5) scores, P<0.01) and satisfaction (from 4.6 (±2.2) to 6.0 (±2.1) scores, P<0.001) with regard to own selected daily activities. No statistically significant differences were seen between the changes within the rehabilitation group and changes within the control group at the 12-week follow-up.

Conclusions: Although the pulmonary rehabilitation programme had an immediate effect, it was not sustained.
Risk factors for falls in stroke patients during inpatient rehabilitation
Authors: Czernuszenko Anna , Czlonkowska Anna
Published: January 2009

Objectives: To assess the incidence and circumstances of falls among stroke patients in a rehabilitation ward, the frequency of fall-related fractures, the relationship between falls and rehabilitation outcomes, and risk factors for falls.

Design: Prospective observational study.

Setting: Neurological rehabilitation ward.

Patients: In total 1155 patients (56% men; mean age 61.5 ± 14.3 years) admitted to the neurological rehabilitation ward after a stroke. Median (interquartile range) time since stroke onset was 36.5 (68) days.

Main measures: Patients' falls were registered during hospitalization (1—74 days) and variables relating to the type and symptoms of stroke, current medications, neurological deficit (Scandinavian Stroke Scale) and disability (Barthel Index) were collected from medical records.

Results: A total of 252 falls were recorded for 189 (16.3%) patients and 45 patients experienced 108 repeated falls. The incidence rate for falls was 7.6/1000 patient-days (95% confidence interval (CI) 6.6—8.5). Most patients fell while being transferred (33.9%) and while seated (21.5%), and 1.2% of falls resulted in fractures (n = 3). Increased risk of both first and multiple falls was strongly associated with initial Barthel score below 15 (hazard ratio (HR) 5.2 and 4.5, respectively) and time since stroke onset ≥12 weeks (HR 2.3 and 2.3, respectively). First falls were significantly associated with visuo-spatial neglect (HR 1.5). Repeated falls were related to age greater than 65 years (HR 1.4).

Conclusions: Patients with severe stroke-related disability in the early period after stroke are prone to falls during rehabilitation. Multiple falls are most frequent in patients over 65 years of age.
A Modern Perspective on Creative Cognition
Authors: Dreyfus Stuart E.
Published: January 2009

Influenced by recent neuroscientific research, the author proposes that the cognition underlying creativity should be seen as a sequential process requiring the appropriate interspersing of both intuitive and analytical modes of thought. Each of these modes may concern itself with either identifying the information that is the focus of potentially creative cognition or with the creative perspective from which to view the information. Here, perspective refers to the salience of various elements of the information set, of which some elements might be seen as crucially important to a creative treatment of the situation, while other pieces of information may appear as merely contextually relevant.
Probabilistic Balance Monitoring for Bipedal Robots
Authors: Höhn O. , Gerth W.
Published: January 2009

In this paper, a probability-based balance monitoring concept for humanoid robots is proposed. Two algorithms are presented that allow us to distinguish between exceptional situations and normal operations. The first classification approach uses Gaussian-Mixture-Models (GMM) to describe the distribution of the robot's sensor data for typical situations such as stable walking or falling down. With the GMM it is possible to state the probability of the robot being in one of the known situations. The concept of the second algorithm is based on Hidden-Markov-Models (HMM). The objective is to detect and classify unstable situations by means of their typical sequences in the robot's sensor data. When appropriate reflex motions are linked to the critical situations, the robot can prevent most falls or is at least able to execute a controlled falling motion. The proposed algorithms are verified by simulations and experiments with our bipedal robot BARt-UH.
Towards Bipedal Jogging as a Natural Result of Optimizing Walking Speed for Passively Compliant Three-Segmented Legs
Authors: Seyfarth A. , Iida F. , Tausch R. , Stelzer M. , von Stryk O. , Karguth A.
Published: January 2009

Elasticity in conventionally built walking robots is an undesired side-effect that is suppressed as much as possible because it makes control very hard and thus complex control algorithms must be used. The human motion apparatus, in contrast, shows a very high degree of flexibility with sufficient stability. In this research we investigate how compliance and damping can deliberately be used in humanoid robots to improve walking capabilities. A modular robot system consisting of rigid segments, joint modules and adjustable compliant cables spanning one or two joints is used to configure a human-like biped. In parallel, a simulation model of the robot was developed and analyzed. Walking motion is gained by oscillatory out-of-phase excitations of the hip joints. An optimization of the walking speed has been performed by improving the viscoelastic properties of the leg and identifying the appropriate hip control parameters. A good match was found between real robot experiments and numerical simulations. At higher speeds, transitions from walking to running are found in both the simulation as well as in the robot.
Physicochemical Studies on some Cross-linked Trivalent Metal-alginate Complexes especially the Electrical Conductivity and Chemical Equilibrium related to the Coordination Geometry
Authors: Zaafarany Ishaq , Khairou Khalid , Hassan Refat
Published: January 2009

The electrical conductivity of cross-linked lanthanum(III)- and cerium(III)-alginate complexes in the form of circular discs has been studied as a function of temperature. The Arrhenius plots of log σ versus 1 / T showed a sharp increase in the electrical conductivity values at elevated temperatures, whereas no changes in σ values were observed at lower temperatures ( < 450 K). This behavior was explained by the degradation of the complexes at higher temperatures to give rise to metal oxide products at the final stages. The heterogeneous chemical equilibrium for exchange of La 3+ and Ce3+ metal ions by H+ ions has been investigated complexometrically and titrimetrically. The X-ray diffraction pattern indicated that these complexes are amorphous in nature. Infrared absorption spectra indicated the presence of chelated La3+ and Ce3+ metal ions with alginate macromolecular chains. A geometrical structure for chelation of lanthanum(III) and cerium(III) to the carboxylate and hydroxyl functional groups of the alginate macromolecule is suggested and discussed in terms of complex stability.
The Bologna Process from a Latin American Perspective
Authors: Brunner José Joaquín
Published: January 2009

Although Latin America’s geography, history, and languages might seem a suitable foundation for a Bologna-type process, the development of a common Latin American higher education and research area meets predictable difficulties.The reasons are to be found in the continent’s historic and modern institutional patterns. Latin American governments increasingly limit their interventions to funding and rely on the free play of the forces of supply and demand, institutional and corporate interests, and negotiated rules of the game to coordinate their systems. Moreover, Latin America’s dynamic tertiary education systems face structural, organizational, and functional obstacles that often discourage international convergence.However, Bologna is stimulating closer university collaboration between Latin American and European institutions, particularly Spanish and Portuguese universities, in an effort to create an Ibero-American area of knowledge, with student and faculty exchanges. Thus Bologna has had an indirect stimulus by encouraging collaboration, and concomitant issues such as Latin America’s current debate about curricular reform and higher education competitiveness.
Japanese University Leaders' Perceptions of Internationalization
Authors: Yonezawa Akiyoshi , Akiba Hiroko , Hirouchi Daisuke
Published: January 2009

To promote sustainable development within the global knowledge-based society, the Japanese government is urging the nation's higher education institutions to internationalize. Although a select number of Japanese universities are highly regarded in world university rankings, many observers argue that the majority of Japanese higher education institutions are not sufficiently internationalized compared with those of other industrialized countries.

However, the dynamics and structure of internationalization is highly diverse, and well considered policy initiatives are required to guide and foster the process in respective institutions. Based on a comprehensive survey of reviews of internationalization in Japanese universities, this article examines the perceptions of Japanese university leaders in terms of the extent to which they reflect an “international” character. The present context and possible roles of government and institutions for internationalization in Japanese higher education are also explored.
Applying Rapid Serial Visual Presentation to Adolescent Sexual Offenders
Authors: Crooks V.L. , Rostill-Brookes H. , Beech A.R. , Bickley J.A.
Published: January 2009

Attentional bias toward child images is assessed among adolescent sexual offenders and nonsexual offenders using the rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) method, which measures the effects of “attentional blink.” Twenty adolescent sexual offenders against children and 26 nonsexual offenders are asked to identify a child or animal image and then a second image in streams of 10 images. A stronger attentional blink effect is expected for offenders against children after viewing child rather than animal images. However, the expected differences between offender groups are not found. It is questioned whether the RSVP images can elicit a response in adolescent sexual offenders indicative of DSI. The clinical utility of applying the RSVP assessment with adolescents rather than adults is also queried because (a) adolescents' cognitive abilities may not allow them to conceptualize and concentrate on the assessment in its present form and (b) deviant sexual interest may be evident to different degrees in adolescent sexual offenders.
Citizen Trust in Police
Authors: Yuning Wu  , Sun Ivan Y.
Published: January 2009

This study assesses the extent to which Chinese citizens trust their police and explores factors that account for variation in public trust in police. Very few studies have empir ically examined Chinese attitudes toward police. Using conflict theory as the guiding theo retical framework and interview data collected from eight Chinese cities, the study tests the effects of conflict variables, including gender, age, education, income, employment, and perceived political influence, and relevant control variables on Chinese public trust in police. The results show that conflict variables only have a modest explanatory power o Chinese attitudes toward police. Younger Chinese and Chinese with lower levels of per ceived political power tend to have lower levels of trust in police. Chinese attitudes toward police are also influenced by satisfaction with public safety, governmental capability of dealing with crime, quality of life, and corruption among government officials Implications for future research are discussed.
Different grain morphologies in grain-refined 7075 billet
Authors: Eskin D. G. , Ruvalcaba D. , Kwakernaak C. , Katgerman L.
Published: January 2009

Different grain morphologies are identified in the central portion of a direct-chill cast, grain-refined 7075-alloy billet, i.e. coarse-cell and fine-cell dendrite grains and grains that are less developed than the bulk of the structure. Three-dimensional reconstruction of a representative volume is used for separating these distinct grain types. Microsegregation measurements show that coarse-cell grains are depleted of solutes (Cu, Mg, Zn), whereas fine-cell grains and less developed grains are enriched in solutes. Analysis of non-equilibrium solidification demonstrates that the observed grain types could be formed in different stages of solidification and correspondingly in different parts of the billet sump. Coarse-cell grains nucleate in the upper part of the sump, whereas fine-cell grains and less developed grains originate from deeper portions of the sump.
Practical method for producing galvanised dual-phase steels with superior strength – ductility combination
Authors: Chang L. , Chen T.-R. , Pan Y.-T. , Yang K.-C.
Published: January 2009

It is a challenge to produce galvanised dual-phase steels based on lean chemistries and with consistent mechanical properties over the entire coil length. A practical method was developed using hot band annealing (HBA) in the ferrite/austenite two-phase region before cold rolling and intercritical annealing. The HBA brings several benefits to the production of galvanised dual-phase steel sheets. First, a finer and more homogeneous microstructure can be obtained. Second, a higher tensile strength is yielded with a similar ductility to the sheets without HBA. The sensitivity of mechanical properties to the annealing parameters such as annealing temperature and cooling rate can also be reduced. Finally, the effect of the microstructure on the strain hardening behaviour was analysed.
Optimal holding temperatures and phosphorus additions for primary silicon refinement in Al–high Si alloys
Authors: Dai H. S. , Liu X. F.
Published: January 2009

The refinement of primary silicon particles in hypereutectic aluminium–silicon alloys with exceptionally high Si contents (Al–high Si alloys) has been studied using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and electron probe microanalysis. A new Si–20P master alloy has been developed which was used to study the optimal melt treating technology for achieving a satisfactory refinement of primary silicon. The experimental results show that the optimal superheating temperature and the amount of phosphorus addition increase abruptly when silicon content reaches about 50 wt-%. A few of experiential formulae are presented for the optimal superheating temperature and the amount of phosphorus addition. The refinement mechanism of the primary silicon is also discussed.
Impaired activation of platelets lacking protein kinase C-θ isoform
Authors: Nagy Bela , Bhavaraju Kamala , Getz Todd , Bynagari Yamini S. , Kim Soochong , Kunapuli Satya P.
Published: January 2009

Protein kinase C (PKC) isoforms have been implicated in several platelet functional responses, but the contribution of individual isoforms has not been thoroughly evaluated. Novel PKC isoform PKC-θ is activated by glycoprotein VI (GPVI) and protease-activated receptor (PAR) agonists, but not by adenosine diphosphate. In human platelets, PKC-θ–selective antagonistic (RACK; receptor for activated C kinase) peptide significantly inhibited GPVI and PAR-induced aggregation, dense and α-granule secretion at low agonist concentrations. Consistently, in murine platelets lacking PKC-θ, platelet aggregation and secretion were also impaired. PKC-mediated phosphorylation of tSNARE protein syntaxin-4 was strongly reduced in human platelets pretreated with PKC-θ RACK peptide, which may contribute to the lower levels of granule secretion when PKC-θ function is lost. Furthermore, the level of JON/A binding to activated αIIbβ3 receptor was also significantly decreased in PKC-θ−/− mice compared with wild-type littermates. PKC-θ−/− murine platelets showed significantly lower agonist-induced thromboxane A2 (TXA2) release through reduced extracellular signal–regulated kinase phosphorylation. Finally, PKC-θ−/− mice displayed unstable thrombus formation and prolonged arterial occlusion in the FeCl3 in vivo thrombosis model compared with wild-type mice. In conclusion, PKC-θ isoform plays a significant role in platelet functional responses downstream of PAR and GPVI receptors.
A simplified, robust, and streamlined procedure for the production of C. eleganstransgenes via recombineering
Authors: Zhang Yue , Nash Lindsey , Fisher Alfred L
Published: January 2009

Background

The nematode Caenorhabditis elegans has emerged as a powerful system to study biologic questions ranging from development to aging. The generation of transgenic animals is an important experimental tool and allows use of GFP fusion proteins to study the expression of genes of interest or generation of epitope tagged versions of specific genes. Transgenes are often generated by placing a promoter upstream of a reporter gene or cDNA. This often produces a representative expression pattern, but important exceptions have been observed. To better capture the genuine expression pattern and timing, several investigators have modified large pieces of DNA carried by BACs or fosmids for use in the construction of transgenic animals via recombineering. However, these techniques are not in widespread use despite the advantages when compared to traditional approaches. Additionally, some groups have encountered problems with employing these techniques. Hence, we sought identify ways to improve the simplicity and reliability of the procedure.

Results

We describe here several important modifications we have made to existing protocols to make the procedure simpler and more robust. Among these are the use of galK gene as a selection marker for both the positive and negative selection steps in recombineering, the use of R6K based plasmids which eliminate the need for extensive PCR product purification, a means to integrate the unc-119 marker on to the fosmid backbone, and placement of homology arms to commonly used GFP and TAP fusion genes flanking the galK cassette which reduces the cost of oligos by 50%.

Conclusion

We have made several significant changes that allow the production of C. elegans transgenes from a commercially available fosmid library in a robust and streamlined manner. These changes make the technique more attractive especially to small academic labs unfamiliar with recombineering.
Medicago truncatula and Glomus intraradices gene expression in cortical cells harboring arbuscules in the arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis
Authors: Gomez S Karen , Javot Hélène , Deewatthanawong Prasit , Torres-Jerez Ivone , Tang Yuhong , Blancaflor Elison B , Udvardi Michael K , Harrison Maria J
Published: January 2009

Background

Most vascular flowering plants have the capacity to form symbiotic associations with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi. The symbiosis develops in the roots where AM fungi colonize the root cortex and form arbuscules within the cortical cells. Arbuscules are enveloped in a novel plant membrane and their establishment requires the coordinated cellular activities of both symbiotic partners. The arbuscule-cortical cell interface is the primary functional interface of the symbiosis and is of central importance in nutrient exchange. To determine the molecular events the underlie arbuscule development and function, it is first necessary to identify genes that may play a role in this process. Toward this goal we used the Affymetrix GeneChip® Medicago Genome Array to document the M. truncatula transcript profiles associated with AM symbiosis, and then developed laser microdissection (LM) of M. truncatula root cortical cells to enable analyses of gene expression in individual cell types by RT-PCR.

Results

This approach led to the identification of novel M. truncatula and G. intraradices genes expressed in colonized cortical cells and in arbuscules. Within the arbuscule, expression of genes associated with the urea cycle, amino acid biosynthesis and cellular autophagy was detected. Analysis of gene expression in the colonized cortical cell revealed up-regulation of a lysine motif (LysM)-receptor like kinase, members of the GRAS transcription factor family and a symbiosis-specific ammonium transporter that is a likely candidate for mediating ammonium transport in the AM symbiosis.

Conclusion

Transcript profiling using the Affymetrix GeneChip® Medicago Genome Array provided new insights into gene expression in M. truncatula roots during AM symbiosis and revealed the existence of several G. intraradices genes on the M. truncatula GeneChip®. A laser microdissection protocol that incorporates low-melting temperature Steedman's wax, was developed to enable laser microdissection of M. truncatula root cortical cells. LM coupled with RT-PCR provided spatial gene expression information for both symbionts and expanded current information available for gene expression in cortical cells containing arbuscules.
Differential effectiveness of Serratia plymuthica IC1270-induced systemic resistance against hemibiotrophic and necrotrophic leaf pathogens in rice
Authors: De Vleesschauwer David , Chernin Leonid , Höfte Monica M
Published: January 2009

Background

Induced resistance is a state of enhanced defensive capacity developed by a plant reacting to specific biotic or chemical stimuli. Over the years, several forms of induced resistance have been characterized, including systemic acquired resistance, which is induced upon localized infection by an avirulent necrotizing pathogen, and induced systemic resistance (ISR), which is elicited by selected strains of nonpathogenic rhizobacteria. However, contrary to the relative wealth of information on inducible defense responses in dicotyledoneous plants, our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying induced resistance phenomena in cereal crops is still in its infancy. Using a combined cytomolecular and pharmacological approach, we analyzed the host defense mechanisms associated with the establishment of ISR in rice by the rhizobacteriumSerratia plymuthicaIC1270.

Results

In a standardized soil-based assay, root treatment with IC1270 rendered foliar tissues more resistant to the hemibiotrophic pathogenMagnaporthe oryzae, causal agent of the devastating rice blast disease. Analysis of the cytological and biochemical alterations associated with restriction of fungal growth in IC1270-induced plants revealed that IC1270 primes rice for enhanced attacker-induced accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and autofluorescent phenolic compounds in and near epidermal cells displaying dense cytoplasmic granulation. Similar, yet more abundant, phenotypes of hypersensitively dying cells in the vicinity of fungal hyphae were evident in a gene-for-gene interaction with an avirulentM. oryzaestrain, suggesting that IC1270-inducible ISR and R protein conditioned effector-triggered immunity (ETI) target similar defense mechanisms. Yet, this IC1270-inducible ISR response seems to act as a double-edged sword within the rice defense network as induced plants displayed an increased vulnerability to the necrotrophic pathogensRhizoctonia solaniandCochliobolus miyabeanus. Artificial enhancement of ROS levels in inoculated leaves faithfully mimicked the opposite effects of IC1270 bacteria on aforementioned pathogens, suggesting a central role for oxidative events in the IC1270-induced resistance mechanism.

Conclusion

Besides identifying ROS as modulators of antagonistic defense mechanisms in rice, this work reveals the mechanistic similarities betweenS. plymuthica-mediated ISR and R protein-dictated ETI and underscores the importance of using appropriate innate defense mechanisms when breeding for broad-spectrum rice disease resistance.
Capillary hemangioma of cauda equina: a case report
Authors: Miri Seyed M , Habibi Zohreh , Hashemi Mohammad , Meybodi Ali T , Tabatabai Seyed Ali F
Published: January 2009

Background

Capillary hemangiomas of spinal nerve root, mostly affecting the cauda equina, are extremely rare.

Case presentation

A 20-year old man was presented with back pain, radiculopathy, and urogenital symptoms. Magnetic resonance images revealed an intradural extramedullary mass, isointense in T1-weighted and hyperintense in T2-weighted images, with noticeable post injection enhancement. The clinical and radiological findings simulated neurinoma.

However, a pinkish lesion was removed surgically and histopathological examination revealed lobules of capillary vessels separated by fibrous tissue, suggesting capillary hemangioma.

Conclusion

Although rare and sometimes indistinguishable from more common lesion, capillary hemangioma should be in differential diagnosis of any enhancing intradural extramedullary mass at the level of cauda equina or conus medullaris.
Cisplatin and Etoposide in Childhood Germ Cell Tumor: Brazilian Pediatric Oncology Society Protocol GCT-91
Authors: Lopes Luiz Fernando , Macedo Carla Renata Pacheco , Pontes Elitânia Marinho , dos Santos Aguiar Simone , Mastellaro Maria José , Melaragno Renato , Vianna Sonia Maria Rossi , Lopes Paula Azevedo Allemand , Mendonça Nubia , de Assis Almeida Maria Teresa , Sonaglio Viviane , Ribeiro Karina B. , Santana Victor M. , Schneider Dominik T. , de Camargo Beatriz
Published: January 2009

Purpose

In 1988, we formed a consortium of Brazilian institutions to develop uniform standards for the diagnostic assessment and multidisciplinary treatment of children and adolescents with germ cell tumors. We also implemented the first childhood Brazilian germ cell tumor protocol, GCT-91, evaluating two-agent chemotherapy with cisplatin and etoposide (PE). We now report on the clinical characteristics and survival of children and adolescents with germ cell tumors treated on this protocol.

Patients and Methods

From May 1991 to April 2000, 115 patients (106 assessable patients) were enrolled onto the Brazilian protocol with a diagnosis of germ cell tumor.

Results

Patients were treated with surgery only (n = 35) and chemotherapy (n = 71). Important prognostic factors included stage (P = .025), surgical procedure at diagnosis according to resectability (P < .032), and abnormal lactate dehydrogenase value at diagnosis (P < .001).

Conclusion

The improvement in survival by the introduction of a standard protocol is an important achievement. This is of particular importance for smaller institutions with previous limited experience in the treatment of childhood germ cell tumors. In addition, the results of a two-agent regimen with PE were favorable (5-year overall survival rate is 83.3% for patients in the high-risk group [n = 36] who received PE v 58.8% for patients in the high-risk patients group who received PE plus ifosfamide, vinblastine, and bleomycin [n = 17; P = .017]). Thus for selected patients, complex three-agent regimens may not be necessary to achieve long-term survival, even for some patients with advanced disease.
Prevention, Screening, and Surveillance Care for Breast Cancer Survivors Compared With Controls: Changes from 1998 to 2002
Authors: Snyder Claire F. , Frick Kevin D. , Kantsiper Melinda E. , Peairs Kimberly S. , Herbert Robert J. , Blackford Amanda L. , Wolff Antonio C. , Earle Craig C.
Published: January 2009

Purpose

To examine how care for breast cancer survivors compares with controls.

Patients and Methods

Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results–Medicare database, we examined five cohorts of stages 1 to 3 breast cancer survivors diagnosed from 1998 to 2002. For each survivor cohort (defined by diagnosis year), we calculated the number of visits to oncology specialists, primary care providers (PCPs), and other physicians and the percentage who received influenza vaccination, cholesterol screening, colorectal cancer screening, bone densitometry, and mammography during survivorship year 1 (days 366 to 730 postdiagnosis). We compared survivors' care to that of five cohorts of screening controls who were matched to survivors on age, ethnicity, sex, and region and who had a mammogram in the survivor's year of diagnosis and to that of five cohorts of comorbidity controls who were matched on age, ethnicity, sex, region, and comorbidity. We examined whether survivors' care was associated with the mix of physician specialties that were visited.

Results

A total of 23,731 survivors were matched with 23,731 screening controls and 23,396 comorbidity controls. There was no difference in trends over time in PCP visits between survivors and either control group. The survivors' rate of increase in other physician visits was greater than screening controls (P = .002) but was no different from comorbidity controls. Survivors were less likely to receive preventive care than screening controls but were more likely than comorbidity controls. Trends over time in survivors' care tended to be better than screening controls but were no different than comorbidity controls. Survivors who visited both a PCP and oncology specialist were most likely to receive recommended care.

Conclusion

Involvement by both PCPs and oncology specialists can facilitate appropriate care for survivors.
Providing Research Results to Participants: Attitudes and Needs of Adolescents and Parents of Children With Cancer
Authors: Fernandez Conrad Vincent , Gao Jun , Strahlendorf Caron , Moghrabi Albert , Pentz Rebecca Davis , Barfield Raymond Carlton , Baker Justin Nathaniel , Santor Darcy , Weijer Charles , Kodish Eric
Published: January 2009

Purpose

There is an increasing demand for researchers to provide research results to participants. Our aim was to define an appropriate process for this, based on needs and attitudes of participants.

Methods

A multicenter survey in five sites in the United States and Canada was offered to parents of children with cancer and adolescents with cancer. Respondents indicated their preferred mode of communication of research results with respect to implications; timing, provider, and content of the results; reasons for and against providing results; and barriers to providing results.

Results

Four hundred nine parents (including 19 of deceased children) and 86 adolescents responded. Most parents (n = 385; 94.2%) felt that they had a strong right to research results. For positive results, most wanted a letter or e-mail summary (n = 238; 58.2%) or a phone call followed by a letter (n = 100; 24.4%). If the results were negative, phone call (n = 136; 33.3%) or personal visits (n = 150; 36.7%) were preferred. Parents wanted the summary to include long-term sequelae and suggestions for participants (n = 341; 83.4%), effect on future treatments (n = 341; 83.4%), and subsequent research steps (n = 284; 69.5%). Understanding the researcher was a main concern about receiving results (n = 145; 35.5%). Parents felt that results provide information to support quality of life (n = 315; 77%) and raise public awareness of research (n = 282; 68.9%). Adolescents identified similar preferences.

Conclusion

Parents of children with cancer and adolescents with cancer feel strongly that they have a right to be offered research results and have specific preferences of how and what information should be communicated.
Lymph Node Ratio as an Alternative to pN Staging in Node-Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Vinh-Hung Vincent , Verkooijen Helena M. , Fioretta Gerald , Neyroud-Caspar Isabelle , Rapiti Elisabetta , Vlastos Georges , Deglise Carole , Usel Massimo , Lutz Jean-Michel , Bouchardy Christine
Published: January 2009

Purpose

In the current pTNM classification system, nodal status of breast cancer is based on the number of involved lymph nodes and does not account for the total number of lymph nodes removed. In this study, we assessed the prognostic value of the lymph node ratio (LNR; ie, ratio of positive over excised lymph nodes) as compared with pN staging and determined its optimal cutoff points.

Patients and Methods

From the Geneva Cancer Registry, we identified all women diagnosed with node-positive breast cancer between 1980 and 2004 (n = 1,829). The prognostic value of LNRs was calculated for values ranging from 0.05 to 0.95 by Cox regression analysis and validated by bootstrapping. Based on maximum likelihood, we identified cutoff points classifying women into low-, intermediate-, and high-risk LNR groups.

Results

Optimal cutoff points classified patients into low- (≤ 0.20), intermediate- (> 0.20 and ≤ 0.65), and high-risk (> 0.65) LNR groups, corresponding to 10-year disease-specific survival rates of 75%, 63%, and 40%, and adjusted mortality risks of 1 (reference), 1.78 (95% CI, 1.46 to 2.18), and 3.21 (95% CI, 2.54 to 4.06), respectively. In contrast to LNR risk categories, survival curves of pN2 and pN3 crossed after 15 years, and their adjusted mortality risks showed overlapping CIs: 2.07 (95% CI, 1.69 to 2.53) and 2.84 (95% CI, 2.23 to 3.61), respectively.

Conclusion

LNR predicts survival after breast cancer more accurately than pN classification and should be considered as an alternative to pN staging.