bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Land–Atmosphere Coupling Strength in the Global Forecast System
Authors: Zhang Li , Dirmeyer Paul A. , Wei Jiangfeng , Guo Zhichang , Lu Cheng-Hsuan
Published: November 2010

The operational coupled land–atmosphere forecast model from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) is evaluated for the strength and characteristics of its coupling in the water cycle between land and atmosphere. Following the protocols of the Global Land–Atmosphere Coupling Experiment (GLACE) it is found that the Global Forecast System (GFS) atmospheric model coupled to the Noah land surface model exhibits extraordinarily weak land–atmosphere coupling, much as its predecessor, the GFS–Oregon State University (OSU) coupled system. The coupling strength is evaluated by the ability of subsurface soil wetness to affect locally the time series of precipitation. The surface fluxes in Noah are also found to be rather insensitive to subsurface soil wetness. Comparison to another atmospheric model coupled to Noah as well as a different land surface model show that Noah is responsible for some of the lack of sensitivity, primarily because its thick (10 cm) surface layer dominates the variability in surface latent heat fluxes. Noah is found to be as responsive as other land surface models to surface soil wetness and temperature variations, suggesting the design of the GLACE sensitivity experiment (based only on subsurface soil wetness) handicapped the Noah model. Additional experiments, in which the parameterization of evapotranspiration is altered, as well as experiments where surface soil wetness is also constrained, isolate the GFS atmospheric model as the principal source of the weak sensitivity of precipitation to land surface states.
Knowing How to Know: Building Meaningful Relationships Through Instruction That Meets the Needs of Students Learning English
Authors: Jiménez Robert T. , Rose Brian C.
Published: November 2010

A growing body of literature highlights the need for teachers to know their students better, especially students from linguistically diverse backgrounds. The authors argue that teachers need to build healthy relationships with students and find ways to provide them with more effective instruction. Accordingly, they present a synopsis of what scholars know about helping preservice teachers learn about their students and what the literature reveals concerning what teachers need to be able to do to teach these young people more effectively. Finally, the authors provide some specific exercises that they have employed to help preservice teachers move in the direction of learning about and developing more meaningful relationships with students. They conclude with some challenges and directions for future research that targets ways to provide future teachers with the necessary tools, resources, and skills needed to access the cultural and linguistic strengths of their English-learning students.
The appraisal of lift passenger demand in modern office buildings
Authors: Peters Richard , Smith Rory , Evans Elizabeth
Published: November 2010

The number of passengers wanting to use lifts to travel to and from the lobby and between floors in a building has a significant effect on the quality of lift service experienced by each passenger. The traditional assumptions of lift passenger demand in office buildings are compared to measurements taken in modern buildings. The differences between traditional and modern patterns of passenger demand in office buildings are discussed. The significance of these differences on lift system design is explored. In office buildings surveyed, the daily pattern of passenger demand repeats itself with a high degree of consistency; buildings can be described as having their own demand ‘signatures’.

Practical applications: Designing lift systems based on modern traffic patterns and traffic levels will result in systems with characteristics that are different from those designed using traditional traffic expectations. Applying the traffic data in this paper will result in a more accurate prediction of a lift system’s performance. Control system designers can use the traffic data to design dispatcher algorithms that can better respond to modern traffic conditions.
Contributions to College Costs by Married, Divorced, and Remarried Parents
Authors: López Turley Ruth N. , Desmond Matthew
Published: November 2010

Using parent interview data from a subsample of the National Postsecondary Student Aid Study (NPSAS), the authors compared the financial contributions of married, divorced, and remarried parents toward their children’s college education and found that although divorced parents contributed significantly less than married parents, remarried parents contributed amounts similar to those of divorced parents, despite having incomes similar to those of married parents. The authors also investigated the financial contributions of divorced and remarried parents who lived in states that permit courts to extend child support beyond the age of 18 for college expenses (postmajority states) and found that living in a postmajority state is not associated with increased parent contributions.
Parental behaviors related to adolescents’ self-disclosure: Adolescents’ views
Authors: Tokić Ana , Pećnik Ninoslava
Published: November 2010

The aim of the study was to explore adolescents’ perceptions of their parents’ behaviors that inhibited or facilitated adolescents’ self-disclosures to them. Four focus groups with 16 girls and 16 boys from Croatia (13—14 year olds) were conducted. Results indicate that adolescents perceive their self-disclosures to be influenced by a variety of specific parental actions and reactions in disclosure-related situations. According to adolescents’ views, not only can parents hinder adolescent’s disclosure by unfavorable reactions, but they can also prompt the adolescent to disclose by behaving in certain manner. Identified parental behaviors and emotional states (labeled as ‘‘inviters’’, ‘‘inhibitors’’, ‘‘negative reactions’’, and ‘‘positive reactions’’) are discussed in terms of contemporary perspectives on optimal parenting based on children’s psychological needs and children’s rights.
The Efficacy of the Trafficking in Persons Report
Authors: Wooditch Alese
Published: November 2010

Anti-trafficking efforts have been adopted globally to curb human trafficking, yet many nations have failed to put initiatives into practice. As a consequence, the U.S. Department of State implemented the Trafficking in Persons (TIP) Report to monitor and increase efforts worldwide and serve as a guide to funding anti-trafficking programs aboard. This exploratory study investigates the efficacy of this policy initiative by means of a longitudinal assessment of the TIP Report’s tier classifications, a system that grades countries based on anti-trafficking initiatives, and determines if U.S. funded anti-trafficking initiatives internationally target those countries in need. The findings suggest that tier ranking has not improved over time, and the United States has failed to systematically allocate funds based on the recommendations of the tier classification system. Policy recommendations and implications for future research are discussed.
Development and Analysis of a New Joining Method for Polymer-Metal Hybrid Structures
Authors: Abibe A.B. , Amancio-Filho S.T. , Dos Santos J.F. , Hage E.
Published: November 2010

The influence of innovative technologies and green policies in manufacturing has created new design needs. Reinforced thermoplastics and metals are widely used as engineering materials for weight reduction, usually assembled by joining. This article presents the principles of a new injection clinching joining (ICJ) process for polymer—metal hybrid structures. Based on staking, injection molding, and adhesive bonding technologies, ICJ provides spot joints with mechanical anchoring of a polymeric partner in a designed cavity of a metallic part. A feasibility study on a polyamide thermoplastic composite and aluminum is presented, addressing the mechanical, microstructural, and thermal properties of ICJ joints.
Changing the World Through Meaningful Play: Report on the 2010 ISAGA Conference
Authors: Murff Elizabeth
Published: November 2010

This article reports on the International Simulation and Gaming Association’s conference in Spokane, Washington, United States (ISAGA2010). It provides an overview of the many presentations and workshops at the conference, as well as hints of other events both planned and unplanned.
Strain Gradient Effect in Finite Elasto-plastic Damaged Materials
Authors: Cleja-Ţigoiu Sanda , Ţigoiu Victor
Published: November 2010

In this article we propose a strain gradient model for elasto-plastic materials in which there exist zones with structural inhomogeneities, characterized by nonlocal deformations. We assume the existence of an anholonomic configuration, called damaged configuration, which is associated with the second-order plastic deformation. We proved how the damage may be coupled to the second-order plasticity introducing a tensorial damage variable, Qd, as a measure of the nonmetricity of the plastic Bilby-type part of the connection, which characterizes peculiar structural defects. The constitutive and evolution equations are subjected to be compatible with the principle of the imbalanced free energy, which is applied for isothermal processes. The free energy density function Ψ, is represented as a function of second-order elastic deformation and it depends on the damaged configuration, K, through the second-order plastic deformation. At the level of plastically deformed configuration, the effects of macro- and microforces are cumulated into the internal power. Two possible nonlocal evolution equations to describe plastic behavior are derived as a consequence of balance equation for microforces. Finally, we look at the influence of the strain gradient in a simple model.
What We Know and What We Don’t Know About Variation in Social Organization: Melvin Ember’s Approach to the Study of Kinship
Authors: Ember Carol R.
Published: November 2010

Focusing on Melvin Ember’s kinship interests, this article tries to summarize what we know and don’t know about the conditions favoring different aspects of cultural variation in kinship and social organization. What explains the incest taboo and its variable extensions to cousin marriage? What explains marriage? What explains variation in marital residence patterns? Why polygyny versus monogamy? Why are family households extended or independent? Why do unilineal descent groups form?
Profiles of Disciplinary Behaviors Among Biological Fathers
Authors: Lee Shawna J. , Kim Jinseok , Taylor Catherine A. , Perron Brian E.
Published: November 2010

This study assesses fathers’ discipline of their 3-year-old child. Data are from 1,238 mother and father participants in the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study. Latent class analysis (LCA) of nonaggressive and aggressive behaviors, as reported by mothers, indicated four distinct paternal disciplinary profiles: low discipline, low aggression, moderate physical aggression, and high physical and psychological aggression. Serious forms of psychological aggression directed toward the child were uncommon but may identify those fathers most in need of intervention. Use of nonaggressive discipline was high and nearly equivalent among the parenting profiles. However, child aggressive behavior increased as the child’s exposure to paternal aggression increased, even when aggressive discipline was combined with high levels of nonaggressive discipline. Fathers who exhibited more aggression toward their child had higher levels of alcohol use, used more psychological aggression toward the child’s mother, and were more likely to spank their child.
The Effectiveness of Two Universal Behavioral Supports for Children With Externalizing Behavior in Head Start Classrooms
Authors: Smith Sandra Covington , Lewis Timothy J. , Stormont Melissa
Published: November 2010

To add to the emerging early intervention research on universal supports for children, the purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of an intervention designed to increase teachers’ use of two universal behavioral supports on target children’s behavior. The children targeted for this study were at elevated risk for problem behavior according to teachers’ nominations and ratings. Three teachers in Head Start settings were selected to participate in this study. The Multi Option Observation System for Experimental Studies coding system was used to collect data on teacher and student behavior. The intervention included providing teachers with specific instruction in implementing precorrective statements and behavior-specific praise statements and then, after the intervention sessions, providing feedback on implementation. A multiple-baseline design was used, and baseline, intervention, and maintenance data were collected. Results indicate that teachers increased their use of the targeted universal supports and a functional relationship was observed between this increase and improvement in children’s behavior. Maintenance data were also promising. The implications and limitations of this study are discussed.
Lillian McMurry of Trumpet Records: Integrity and Authenticity in the Charismatic, Constructive Narcissist Leader
Authors: Humphreys John H. , Pane Haden Stephanie , Novicevic Milorad M. , Clayton Russell W. , Whitney Gibson Jane
Published: November 2010

Although the emerging construct of authentic leadership has received considerable attention recently, there are still diverse and competing theoretical perspectives. Common with nascent theory, many have suggested that researchers attempt to craft expanded and more nuanced conceptions of current and potential components, antecedents, and outcomes associated with the conduct and attribution of leader authenticity. Although such theoretical advancement is essential to the maturation of the paradigm, management historians recognize the important role the historical record can play in the progression of contemporary frameworks. During archival research of the business proceedings of Trumpet Records, a 1950s independent record label, we encountered the compelling story of an entrepreneurial leader whose extraordinary integrity and authenticity appeared inconsistent with certain aspects of the principal authentic leadership definitions beginning to converge in the literature. Accordingly, we examined the life and writings of Lillian McMurry, the founder of Trumpet Records, to propose a framework by which leader integrity initiates the conduct and attribution of authentic leadership to transcend charismatic and narcissistic tendencies and diminish the abuse of symbolic status.
Culturally Universal or Culturally Specific: A Comparative Study of Anticipated Female Leadership Styles in Taiwan and the United States
Authors: Chao Chin-Chung , Dexin Tian
Published: November 2010

Guided by Bass and Avolio’s leadership frameworks and Hofstede’s modified cultural dimensions, the present cross-cultural study aims to compare and explore the relationships between cultural values and anticipated female leadership styles in nonprofit organizations in Taiwan and the United States. Regression and t-test analyses of 307 participants in 138 Rotary Clubs in the two societies reveal two research findings. First, Rotary Club members in Taiwan have higher scores in all the cultural dimensions of collectivism, masculinity, and lifelong relationships than their U.S. counterparts. Second, transformational leadership proves to be the most anticipated leadership style among Rotary Club members in both cultures. The research findings indicate that culture alone cannot account for the anticipated female leadership styles. Therefore, a combination of Bass’s culturally universal approach and Hofstede’s culturally specific approach is proposed to tackle more variables in future female leadership studies.
Sensemaking and Sensegiving: An Exploratory Study of the Simultaneous “Being and Learning” of New College and University Presidents
Authors: Smerek Ryan
Published: November 2010

This study examines the first year in office of newcomer executives to understand how they make sense of the ongoing stream of experience (sensemaking) while they simultaneously articulate a desired future image (sensegiving). College and university presidents, who were hired as outsiders, were interviewed to examine how they make sense of the organization while they simultaneously set forth strategic initiatives. This research advances the executive transition literature by examining the simultaneity of “being and learning” an executive role. This contrasts with stage models that have examined sequential processes. Four empirically grounded processes emerged: (a) speaking in broad, ambiguous goals and “safe harbors”; (b) holding knowledge cautiously—knowing you do not know; (c) relying on social interactions to help make sense of the organization and to give more certainty in judgments; and (d) reducing equivocality through priority setting.
Is Transformational Leadership Universal? A Meta-Analytical Investigation of Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire Means Across Cultures
Authors: Leong Lai Yin Carmen , Fischer Ronald
Published: November 2010

The authors investigated the effects of cultural values on reported levels of transformational leadership. The authors used dimensions of cultural variability developed by Schwartz and Hofstede to predict that higher cultural mastery and higher egalitarianism would be associated with greater transformational leadership. Hypotheses were tested using mixed-effects meta-analysis of articles published between 1985 and 2006 using the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire, based on 40 articles and 54 independent samples from 18 nations. Supporting the hypotheses, there was significant variability between countries in reported transformational leadership. Schwartz’s dimensions of cultural values performed slightly better in the analyses. Implications for cross-cultural leadership research are discussed.
Rehabilitation of Syndesmotic (High) Ankle Sprains
Authors: Williams Glenn N. , Allen Eric J.
Published: November 2010

Context:

High ankle sprains are common in athletes who play contact sports. Most high ankle sprains are treated nonsurgically with a rehabilitation program.

Evidence Acquisition:

All years of PUBMED, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL PLUS, SPORTDiscuss, Google Scholar, and Web of Science were searched to August 2010, cross-referencing existing publications. Keywords included syndesmosis ankle sprain or high ankle sprain and the following terms: rehabilitation, treatment, cryotherapy, braces, orthosis, therapeutic modalities, joint mobilization, massage, pain, pain medications, TENS (ie, transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation), acupuncture, aquatic therapy, strength, neuromuscular training, perturbation training, and outcomes.

Results:

Level of evidence, 5. A 3-phase rehabilitation program is described. The acute phase is directed at protecting the joint while minimizing pain, inflammation, muscle weakness, and loss of motion. Most patients are treated with some form of immobilization and have weightbearing restrictions. A range of therapeutic modalities are used to minimize pain and inflammation. Gentle mobilization and resistance exercises are used to gain mobility and maintain muscle size and strength. The subacute phase is directed at normalizing range of motion, strength, and function in activities of daily living. Progressive mobilization and strengthening are hallmarks of this phase. Neuromuscular training is begun and becomes the central component of rehabilitation. The advanced training phase focuses on preparing the patient for return to sports participation. Perturbation of support surfaces, agility drills, plyometrics, and sport-specific training are central components of this phase.

Conclusion:

The rehabilitation guidelines discussed may assist clinicians in managing syndesmotic ankle sprains.
Immunosuppressive CD14+HLA-DRlow/− monocytes in B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Lin Yi , Gustafson Michael P. , Bulur Peggy A. , Gastineau Dennis A. , Witzig Thomas E. , Dietz Allan B.
Published: November 2010

Immunosuppression is a known risk factor for B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), yet mechanisms of tumor-associated immunosuppression remain to be fully characterized. We examined the immunophenotype of 40 NHL patients and 27 age-matched healthy volunteers to better understand systemic immune suppression. NHL peripheral blood mononuclear cells had significantly decreased interferon-γ production and proliferation. This suppression was not the result of regulatory T cells, interleukin-6 or interleukin-10, as these factors were not different between NHL and healthy volunteers (controls). We were able to restore T-cell proliferation by removing NHL monocytes, suggesting that these monocytes are suppressive. This suppression was mediated in part through arginine metabolism as exogenous arginine supplementation partially overcame monocytes' suppression of T-cell proliferation in vitro and NHL patients had elevated arginase I in their plasma. NHL monocytes had impaired STAT1 phosphorylation and interferon-α production to CpG stimulation and a dendritic cell differentiation deficiency. Further studies demonstrated that monocytes from NHL patients had decreased HLA-DR and Tumor necrosis factor-α receptor II (CD120b) expression compared with controls (CD14+HLA-DRlow/−CD120blow). Patients with increased ratios of CD14+HLA-DRlow/− monocytes had more aggressive disease and suppressed immune functions. In summary, we report that CD14+HLA-DRlow/− monocytes are a major and multifactorial contributor to systemic immunosuppression in NHL.
Laminin-511 and integrin beta-1 in hair follicle development and basal cell carcinoma formation
Authors: DeRouen Mindy C , Zhen Hanson , Tan Si Hui , Williams Samantha , Marinkovich M Peter , Oro Anthony E
Published: November 2010

Background

Initiation of the hair follicle placode and its subsequent growth, maturation and cycling in post-natal skin requires signaling interactions between epithelial cells and adjacent dermal cells and involves Shh signaling via the primary cilium. Previous reports have implicated laminins in hair follicle epithelial invagination.

Results

Here we use a human BCC model system and mouse mutants to re-evaluate the role of laminin-511 in epithelial invagination in the skin. Blocking laminin 511 and 332 in BCCs maintains primary cilia and Shh signalling, but prevents invagination. Similarly, in laminin-511 and dermal beta-1 integrin mutants, dermal papilla development and primary cilia formation are normal. Dermal beta-1 integrin mutants have normal hair follicle development.

Conclusions

Our data provides support for a primary role of laminin-511 promoting hair follicle epithelial downgrowth without affecting dermal primary cilia and Shh target gene induction.
Transitional fossil earwigs - a missing link in Dermaptera evolution
Authors: Zhao Jingxia , Zhao Yunyun , Shih Chungkun , Ren Dong , Wang Yongjie
Published: November 2010

Background

The Dermaptera belongs to a group of winged insects of uncertain relationship within Polyneoptera, which has expanded anal region and adds numerous anal veins in the hind wing. Evolutional history and origin of Dermaptera have been in contention.

Results

In this paper, we report two new fossil earwigs in a new family of Bellodermatidae fam. nov. The fossils were collected from the Jiulongshan Formation (Middle Jurassic) in Inner Mongolia, northeast China. This new family, characterized by an unexpected combination of primitive and derived characters, is bridging the missing link between suborders of Archidermaptera and Eodermaptera. Phylogenetic analyses support the new family to be a new clade at the base of previously defined Eodermaptera and to be a stem group of (Eodermaptera+Neodermaptera).

Conclusion

Evolutional history and origin of Dermaptera have been in contention, with dramatically different viewpoints by contemporary authors. It is suggested that the oldest Dermaptera might possibly be traced back to the Late Triassic-Early Jurassic and they had divided into Archidermaptera and (Eodermaptera+Neodermaptera) in the Middle Jurassic.
A three-phase in-vitro system for studying Pseudomonas aeruginosa adhesion and biofilm formation upon hydrogel contact lenses
Authors: Rändler Claudia , Matthes Rutger , McBain Andrew J , Giese Bernd , Fraunholz Martin , Sietmann Rabea , Kohlmann Thomas , Hübner Nils-Olaf , Kramer Axel
Published: November 2010

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is commonly associated with contact lens (CL) -related eye infections, for which bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation upon hydrogel CLs is a specific risk factor. Whilst P. aeruginosa has been widely used as a model organism for initial biofilm formation on CLs, in-vitro models that closely reproduce in-vivo conditions have rarely been presented.

Results

In the current investigation, a novel in-vitro biofilm model for studying the adherence of P. aeruginosa to hydrogel CLs was established. Nutritional and interfacial conditions similar to those in the eye of a CL wearer were created through the involvement of a solid:liquid and a solid:air interface, shear forces and a complex artificial tear fluid. Bioburdens varied depending on the CL material and biofilm maturation occurred after 72 h incubation. Whilst a range of biofilm morphologies were visualised including dispersed and adherent bacterial cells, aggregates and colonies embedded in extracellular polymer substances (EPS), EPS fibres, mushroom-like formations, and crystalline structures, a compact and heterogeneous biofilm morphology predominated on all CL materials.

Conclusions

In order to better understand the process of biofilm formation on CLs and to test the efficacy of CL care solutions, representative in-vitro biofilm models are required. Here, we present a three-phase biofilm model that simulates the environment in the eye of a CL wearer and thus generates biofilms which resemble those commonly observed in-situ.
Mycoplasma hyorhinisinfection in gastric carcinoma and its effects on the malignant phenotypes of gastric cancer cells
Authors: Yang Hua , Qu Like , Ma Huachong , Chen Ling , Liu Wenbin , Liu Caiyun , Meng Lin , Wu Jian , Shou Chengchao
Published: November 2010

Background

Mycoplasma hyorhinis infection has been postulated to play a role in the development of several types of cancer, but the direct evidence and mechanism remained to be determined.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry assay and nested polymerase-chain reaction (PCR) were performed to examine the mycoplasma hyorhinis infection in gastric cancer tissues. Statistical analysis was used to check the association between mycoplasma infection and clinicopathologic parameters. Transwell chamber assay and metastasis assay were used to evaluate mycoplasma hyorhinis' effects on metastasis in vitro and in vivo. Mycoplasma hyorhinis-induced extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) activation were investigated by Western blot.

Results

Mycoplasma hyorhinis infection in gastric cancer tissues was revealed and statistical analysis indicated a significant association between mycoplasma infections and lymph node metastasis, Lauren's Classification, TNM stage, and age of the patients. Mycoplasma hyorhinis promoted tumor cell migration, invasion and metastasis in vitro and in vivo, which was possibly associated with the enhanced phosphorylation of EGFR and ERK1/2. The antibody against p37 protein of Mycoplasma hyorhinis could inhibit the migration of the infected cells.

Conclusions

The infection of mycoplasma hyorhinis may contribute to the development of gastric cancer and Mycoplasma hyorhinis-induced malignant phenotypes were possibly mediated by p37.
Characteristics of coronary artery disease in symptomatic type 2 diabetic patients: evaluation with CT angiography
Authors: Chu Zhi-gang , Yang Zhi-gang , Dong Zhi-hui , Zhu Zhi-yu , Peng Li-qing , Shao Heng , He Ci , Deng Wen , Tang Si-shi , Chen Jing
Published: November 2010

Background

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a common and severe complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). The aim of this study is to identify the features of CAD in diabetic patients using coronary CT angiography (CTA).

Methods

From 1 July 2009 to 20 March 2010, 113 consecutive patients (70 men, 43 women; mean age, 68 ± 10 years) with type 2 DM were found to have coronary plaques on coronary CTA. Their CTA data were reviewed, and extent, distribution and types of plaques and luminal narrowing were evaluated and compared between different sexes.

Results

In total, 287 coronary vessels (2.5 ± 1.1 per patient) and 470 segments (4.2 ± 2.8 per patient) were found to have plaques, respectively. Multi-vessel disease was more common than single vessel disease (p < 0.001), and the left anterior descending (LAD) artery (35.8%) and its proximal segment (19.1%) were most frequently involved (all p < 0.001). Calcified plaques (48.8%) were the most common type (p < 0.001) followed by mixed plaques (38.1%). Regarding the different degrees of stenosis, mild narrowing (36.9%) was most common (p < 0.001); however, a significant difference was not observed between non-obstructive and obstructive stenosis (50.4% vs. 49.6%, p = 0.855). Extent of CAD, types of plaques and luminal narrowing were not significantly different between male and female diabetic patients.

Conclusions

Coronary CTA depicted a high plaque burden in patients with type 2 DM. Plaques, which were mainly calcified, were more frequently detected in the proximal segment of the LAD artery, and increased attention should be paid to the significant prevalence of obstructive stenosis. In addition, DM reduced the sex differential in CT findings of CAD.
Impact of gastroesophageal reflux disease on daily life: the Systematic Investigation of Gastrointestinal Diseases in China (SILC) epidemiological study
Authors: Wang Rui , Zou Duowu , Ma Xiuqiang , Zhao Yanfang , Yan Xiaoyan , Yan Hong , Fang Jiqian , Yin Ping , Kang Xiaoping , Li Qiang , Dent John , Sung Joseph J , Halling Katarina , Johansson Saga , Liu Wenbin , He Jia
Published: November 2010

Background

Gastroesophageal reflux disease imposes a significant burden of illness in Western populations. However, data on the impact of reflux symptoms on daily life in Asian populations are scarce. The current study aimed to evaluate the impact of GERD (defined on the basis of symptoms) on health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) in individuals from five regions in China, as part of the Systematic Investigation of Gastrointestinal Diseases in China (SILC) study.

Methods

In total, 18 000 residents were randomly selected from across five regions of China and asked to complete a general information questionnaire and a Chinese version of the Reflux Disease Questionnaire (RDQ). A randomly selected subsample of one-fifth of subjects (20% from each region) completed Chinese versions of the 36-item self-administered (SF-36) questionnaire and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) questionnaire. Reflux symptoms were defined as the presence of heartburn and/or regurgitation. Symptom-defined GERD was diagnosed as mild heartburn and/or regurgitation ≥2 days per week, or moderate/severe heartburn and/or regurgitation ≥1 day a week, based on the Montreal Definition of GERD for population-based studies.

Results

The response rate was 89.4% for the total sample (16 091/18 000), and for the 20% subsample (3219/3600). Meaningful impairment was observed in all 8 SF-36 dimensions in participants with symptom-defined GERD, in 7 of the 8 SF-36 dimensions in participants with troublesome reflux symptoms, and in 6 of the 8 SF-36 dimensions in participants with reflux symptoms below the threshold for symptom-defined GERD. Meaningful daytime sleepiness was also observed in each of these groups. The proportion of individuals reporting troublesome symptoms increased as reflux symptom frequency and severity approached the threshold for symptom-defined GERD, and this was associated with concomitant decreases in all HRQoL measures. Troublesome symptoms were reported by 68.2% (75/110) of individuals with symptom-defined GERD.

Conclusions

GERD diagnosed using symptom/frequency criteria (recommended for population-based studies), or based on troublesome reflux symptoms (recommended for the clinic), is associated with significantly impaired HRQoL in Chinese individuals. However, patient groups identified using these definitions do not overlap completely, suggesting that they capture slightly different, though clinically relevant, GERD populations.
Characterisation of the Nociceptive Phenotype of Suppressible Galanin Overexpressing Transgenic Mice
Authors: Pope Robert JP , Holmes Fiona E , Kerr Niall C , Wynick David
Published: November 2010

The neuropeptide galanin is widely expressed in both the central and peripheral nervous systems and is involved in many diverse biological functions. There is a substantial data set that demonstrates galanin is upregulated after injury in the DRG, spinal cord and in many brain regions where it plays a predominantly antinociceptive role in addition to being neuroprotective and pro-regenerative. To further characterise the role of galanin following nerve injury, a novel transgenic line was created using the binary transgenic tet-off system, to overexpress galanin in galaninergic tissue in a suppressible manner. The double transgenic mice express significantly more galanin in the DRG one week after sciatic nerve section (axotomy) compared to WT mice and this overexpression is suppressible upon administration of doxycycline. Phenotypic analysis revealed markedly attenuated allodynia when galanin is overexpressed and an increase in allodynia following galanin suppression. This novel transgenic line demonstrates that whether galanin expression is increased at the time of nerve injury or only after allodynia is established, the neuropeptide is able to reduce neuropathic pain behaviour. These new findings imply that administration of a galanin agonist to patients with established allodynia would be an effective treatment for neuropathic pain.
Agonist-activated Ca2+ influx occurs at stable plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum junctions
Authors: Treves Susan , Vukcevic Mirko , Griesser Johanna , Armstrong Clara-Franzini , Zhu Michael X. , Zorzato Fancesco
Published: November 2010

Junctate is a 33 kDa integral protein of sarco(endo)plasmic reticulum membranes that forms a macromolecular complex with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate [Ins(1,4,5)P3] receptors and TRPC3 channels. TIRF microscopy shows that junctate enhances the number of fluorescent puncta on the plasma membrane. The size and distribution of these puncta are not affected by the addition of agonists that mobilize Ca2+ from Ins(1,4,5)P3-sensitive stores. Puncta are associated with a significantly larger number of peripheral junctions between endoplasmic reticulum and plasma membrane, which are further enhanced upon stable co-expression of junctate and TRPC3. The gap between the membranes of peripheral junctions is bridged by regularly spaced electron-dense structures of 10 nm. Ins(1,4,5)P3 inhibits the interaction of the cytoplasmic N-terminus of junctate with the ligand-binding domain of the Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptor. Furthermore, Ca2+ influx evoked by activation of Ins(1,4,5)P3 receptors is increased where puncta are located. We conclude that stable peripheral junctions between the plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum are the anatomical sites of agonist-activated Ca2+ entry.
Ethanol sensitizes mitochondria to the permeability transition by inhibiting deacetylation of cyclophilin-D mediated by sirtuin-3
Authors: Shulga Nataly , Pastorino John G.
Published: November 2010

Ethanol increases the vulnerability of mitochondria to induction of the mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT). Cyclophilin-D activity enhances the potential for the permeability transition pore (PTP) to open. In the present study, we demonstrate that ethanol and its metabolism sensitize the PTP to opening, in part by increasing the acetylation and activity of cyclophilin-D. This effect of ethanol is mediated by inhibiting the activity of sirtuin-3, an NAD+ dependent deacetylase that is localized to the mitochondrial matrix. The ethanol-enhanced acetylation of cyclophilin-D also increases the interaction of cyclophilin-D with the adenine nucleotide translocator-1 (ANT-1) and is dependent on ethanol metabolism. Moreover, activation of AMPK, a known positive modulator of sirtuin activity, prevented the ethanol-induced suppression of sirtuin-3 activity and the attendant increase of cyclophilin-D acetylation, activity and association with ANT-1. Additionally, AMPK reactivation of sirtuin-3 prevented the sensitization to the MPT and the enhancement of cell killing by TNF in cells exposed to ethanol.
Carisoprodol Legal Status and Patterns of Abuse
Authors: Fass Jennifer A
Published: November 2010

Objective:

To review the current legal status and patterns of abuse of carisoprodol.

Data Sources:

A literature search was conducted through MEDLINE (1950-August 2010), PubMed (1966-August 2010), EMBASE (1966-August 2010), and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-August 2010) using the search terms carisoprodol and abuse. In addition, reference citations from publications identified were reviewed. State laws and regulations were accessed through NABP LAW Online (2010) using the search term carisoprodol. Federal proposed rules were accessed through the Federal Register (1995 Volume 59-2010 Volume 75) using the search term carisoprodol.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

State laws and federal proposed rules regarding carisoprodol were examined. Case reports and studies involving carisoprodol abuse were evaluated.

Data Synthesis:

Carisoprodol is not federally scheduled under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). However, carisoprodol is scheduled in 36% (n = 18) of states of the US. The Drug Enforcement Administration issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Federal Register on November 17, 2009, to place carisoprodol into schedule IV of the CSA, with a deadline to submit written comments by December 17, 2009. Case reports, retrospective studies, and national reports, including reports from the American Association of Poison Control Centers and results from the Monitoring the Future national survey on drug use, have identified carisoprodol's abuse potential.

Conclusions:

Carisoprodol should be placed in schedule IV of the CSA based on its abuse potential and current state laws and regulations. Federally scheduling carisoprodol would lead to uniformity among the states and hopefully assist in preventing prescription drug abuse. Larger, well-designed studies evaluating carisoprodol abuse should be performed.
Acamprosate Calcium as Augmentation Therapy for Anxiety Disorders
Authors: Schwartz Thomas L , Siddiqui Umar A , Raza Shafi , Costello Anne
Published: November 2010

Background:

Glutamate is a major excitatory neurotransmitter, while γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a predominant inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This GABA-glutamate imbalance is thought to play a role in the development of anxiety. Acamprosate calcium is thought to restore this chemical imbalance in alcohol withdrawal.

Objective:

To examine acamprosate calcium as augmentation therapy for treatment of anxiety.

Methods:

This 8-week, open-label study was designed to evaluate patients with anxiety who were stable on current medications (selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors and serotonin-norepinephrine-reuptake inhibitors) but still symptomatic. Acamprosate was dosed at 1998 mg/day. Assessments included the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A) and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.

Results:

Thirteen patients enrolled in the study and received study medication. Acamprosate reduced anxiety symptoms (mean HAM-A score reduction to 8.87 from a baseline of 20). Sixty-two percent of patients receiving acamprosate achieved remission (HAM-A score ≤7). Modal dose was 1998 mg/day (range 999-1998). The most commonly reported adverse events were nausea (n = 1), gastrointestinal upset (n = 1), and increased dream activity (n = 1).

Conclusions:

Acamprosate calcium may be effective augmentation therapy in patients with treatment-resistant anxiety.
Predominant Enhancement of Glucose Uptake in Astrocytes versus Neurons during Activation of the Somatosensory Cortex
Authors: Chuquet Julien , Quilichini Pascale , Nimchinsky Esther A. , Buzsáki György
Published: November 2010

Glucose is the primary energetic substrate of the brain, and measurements of its metabolism are the basis of major functional cerebral imaging methods. Contrary to the general view that neurons are fueled solely by glucose in proportion to their energetic needs, recentin vitroandex vivoanalyses suggest that glucose preferentially feeds astrocytes. However, the cellular fate of glucose in the intact brain has not yet been directly observed. We have used a real-time method for measuring glucose uptake in astrocytes and neuronsin vivoin male rats by imaging the trafficking of the nonmetabolizable glucose analog 6-deoxy-N-(7-nitrobenz-2-oxa-1,3-diazol-4-yl)-aminoglucose (6-NBDG) using two-photon microscopy. During resting conditions we found that astrocytes and neurons both take up 6-NBDG at the same rate in the barrel cortex of the rat. However, during intense neuronal activity triggered by whisker stimulation, astrocytes rapidly accelerated their uptake, whereas neuronal uptake remained almost unchanged. After the stimulation period, astrocytes returned to their preactivation rates of uptake paralleling the neuronal rate of uptake. These observations suggest that glucose is taken up primarily by astrocytes, supporting the view that functional imaging experiments based on glucose analogs extraction may predominantly reflect the metabolic activity of the astrocytic network.
Cleavage at the 586 Amino Acid Caspase-6 Site in Mutant huntingtin Influences Caspase-6 ActivationIn Vivo
Authors: Graham Rona K. , Deng Yu , Carroll Jeffery , Vaid Kuljeet , Cowan Catherine , Pouladi Mahmoud A. , Metzler Martina , Bissada Nagat , Wang Lili , Faull Richard L. M. , Gray Michelle , Yang X. William , Raymond Lynn A. , Hayden Michael R.
Published: November 2010

Caspase cleavage of huntingtin (htt) and nuclear htt accumulation represent early neuropathological changes in brains of patients with Huntington's disease (HD). However, the relationship between caspase cleavage of htt and caspase activation patterns in the pathogenesis of HD remains poorly understood. The lack of a phenotype in YAC mice expressing caspase-6-resistant (C6R) mutant htt (mhtt) highlights proteolysis of htt at the 586 aa caspase-6 (casp6) site as a key mechanism in the pathology of HD. The goal of this study was to investigate how proteolysis of htt at residue 586 plays a role in the pathogenesis of HD and determine whether inhibiting casp6 cleavage of mhtt alters cell-death pathwaysin vivo. Here we demonstrate that activation of casp6, and not caspase-3, is observed before onset of motor abnormalities in human and murine HD brain. Active casp6 levels correlate directly with CAG size and inversely with age of onset. In contrast,in vivoexpression of C6R mhtt attenuates caspase activation. Increased casp6 activity and apoptotic cell death is evident in primary striatal neurons expressing caspase-cleavable, but not C6R, mhtt after NMDA application. Pretreatment with a casp6 inhibitor rescues the apoptotic cell death observed in this paradigm. These data demonstrate that activation of casp6 is an early marker of disease in HD. Furthermore, these data provide a clear link between excitotoxic pathways and proteolysis and suggest that C6R mhtt protects against neurodegeneration by influencing the activation of neuronal cell-death and excitotoxic pathways operative in HD.
BMP Signaling Is Necessary for Patterning the Sensory and Nonsensory Regions of the Developing Mammalian Cochlea
Authors: Ohyama Takahiro , Basch Martin L. , Mishina Yuji , Lyons Karen M. , Segil Neil , Groves Andrew K.
Published: November 2010

The mammalian inner ear detects sound with the organ of Corti, an intricately patterned region of the cochlea in which one row of inner hair cells and three rows of outer hair cells are surrounded by specialized supporting cells. The organ of Corti derives from a prosensory domain that runs the length of the cochlear duct and is bounded by two nonsensory domains, Kölliker's organ on the neural side and the outer sulcus on the abneural side. Although much progress has been made in identifying the signals regulating organ of Corti induction and differentiation, less is known about the mechanisms that establish sensory and nonsensory territories in the cochlear duct. Here, we show that a gradient of bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling is established in the abneural–neural axis of the cochlea. Analysis of compound mutants ofAlk3/6type I BMP receptors shows that BMP signaling is necessary for specification of the prosensory domain destined to form the organ of Corti. Reduction of BMP signaling inAlk3/6compound mutants eliminates both the future outer sulcus and the prosensory domain, with all cells expressing markers of Kölliker's organ. BMP4 upregulates markers of the future outer sulcus and downregulates marker genes of Kölliker's organ in cochlear organ cultures in a dose-dependent manner. Our results suggest BMP signaling is required for patterning sensory and nonsensory tissue in the mammalian cochlea.
Parvalbumin-Containing Fast-Spiking Basket Cells Generate the Field Potential Oscillations Induced by Cholinergic Receptor Activation in the Hippocampus
Authors: Gulyás Attila I. , Szabó Gergely G. , Ulbert István , Holderith Noémi , Monyer Hannah , Erdélyi Ferenc , Szabó Gábor , Freund Tamás F. , Hájos Norbert
Published: November 2010

Gamma frequency oscillations in cortical regions can be recorded during cognitive processes, including attention or memory tasks. These oscillations are generated locally as a result of reciprocal interactions between excitatory pyramidal cells and perisomatic inhibitory interneurons. Here, we examined the contribution of the three perisomatic interneuron types—the parvalbumin-containing fast-spiking basket cells (FSBCs) and axo-axonic cells (AACs), as well as the cholecystokinin-containing regular-spiking basket cells (RSBCs) to cholinergically induced oscillations in hippocampal slices, a rhythmic activity that captures several features of the gamma oscillations recordedin vivo. By analyzing the spiking activities of single neurons recorded in parallel with local field potentials, we found that all three cell types fired phase locked to the carbachol-induced oscillations, although with different frequencies and precision. During these oscillations, FSBCs fired the most with the highest accuracy compared with the discharge of AACs and RSBCs. In further experiments, we showed that activation of μ-opioid receptors by DAMGO ([D-Ala2,N-Me-Phe4,Gly5-ol]enkephalin acetate), which significantly reduced the inhibitory, but not excitatory, transmission, suppressed or even blocked network oscillations bothin vitroandin vivo, leading to the desynchronization of pyramidal cell firing. Using paired recordings, we demonstrated that carbachol application blocked GABA release from RSBCs and reduced it from FSBCs and AACs, whereas DAMGO further suppressed the GABA release only from FSBCs, but not from AACs. These results collectively suggest that the rhythmic perisomatic inhibition, generating oscillatory fluctuation in local field potentials after carbachol treatment of hippocampal slices, is the result of periodic GABA release from FSBCs.