bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal Sequence of Attentional Modulation in the Lateral Intraparietal Area and Middle Temporal Area during Rapid Covert Shifts of Attention
Authors: Herrington Todd M. , Assad John A.
Published: March 2010

In the visual system, spatial attention enhances sensory responses to stimuli at attended locations relative to unattended locations. Which brain structures direct the locus of attention, and how is attentional modulation delivered to structures in the visual system? We trained monkeys on an attention-switch task designed to precisely measure the onset of attentional modulation during rapid shifts of spatial attention. Here we show that attentional modulation appears substantially earlier in the lateral intraparietal area (LIP) than in an anatomically connected lower visual area, the middle temporal area. This temporal sequence of attentional latencies demonstrates that endogenous changes of state can occur in higher visual areas before lower visual areas and satisfies a critical prediction of the hypothesis that LIP is a source of top-down attentional signals to early visual cortex.
Differential Plasticity of the GABAergic and Glycinergic Synaptic Transmission to Rat Lumbar Motoneurons after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Sadlaoud Karina , Tazerart Sabrina , Brocard Cécile , Jean-Xavier Céline , Portalier Paule , Brocard Frédéric , Vinay Laurent , Bras Hélène
Published: March 2010

Maturation of inhibitory postsynaptic transmission onto motoneurons in the rat occurs during the perinatal period, a time window during which pathways arising from the brainstem reach the lumbar enlargement of the spinal cord. There is a developmental switch in miniature IPSCs (mIPSCs) from predominantly long-duration GABAergic to short-duration glycinergic events. We investigated the effects of a complete neonatal [postnatal day 0 (P0)] spinal cord transection (SCT) on the expression of Glycine and GABAAreceptor subunits (GlyR and GABAAR subunits) in lumbar motoneurons. In control rats, the density of GlyR increased from P1 to P7 to reach a plateau, whereas that of GABAAR subunits dropped during the same period. In P7 animals with neonatal SCT (SCT-P7), the GlyR densities were unchanged compared with controls of the same age, while the developmental downregulation of GABAAR was prevented. Whole-cell patch-clamp recordings of mIPSCs performed in lumbar motoneurons at P7 revealed that the decay time constant of miniature IPSCs and the proportion of GABAergic events significantly increased after SCT. After daily injections of the 5-HT2R agonist DOI, GABAAR immunolabeling on SCT-P7 motoneurons dropped down to values reported in control-P7, while GlyR labeling remained stable. A SCT made at P5 significantly upregulated the expression of GABAAR 1 week later with little, if any, influence on GlyR. We conclude that the plasticity of GlyR is independent of supraspinal influences whereas that of GABAAR is markedly influenced by descending pathways, in particular serotoninergic projections.
Skulpturen der Handlungsmacht
Authors: Eickhoff Hajo
Published: March 2010

Der Mensch ist ein Wesen der Distanz: er distanziert seine Hände vom Erdboden, distanziert sich durch die Sprache von den Dingen und distanziert Reiz und Reaktion zu einem Zeitspalt, woraus Denken, Freiheit und Handlungsmacht hervorgehen. So hat sich aus der Natur ein Wesen herausgearbeitet, das bedingt frei ist, Bewusstsein in die Welt trägt und dadurch auch ein Kulturwesen ist. Da aber nur wirklich werden kann, was möglich ist, sind Freiheit und Bewusstheit auch natürliche Phänomene. Den Zeitspalt verbreitert der Mensch durch kulturelle Objekte und Kultureinrichtungen. Hauptobjekte sind Haus, Stadt, Schule, Stuhl und Netz, die den Menschen mit jeweils spezifischen Handlungsmächten ausstatten: mit ortsgebundenen, institutionellen, außerpersonalen und individuellen Mächten.
Märtyrerinnen des Dollars? Philippinische Hausarbeiterinnen zwischen Handeln und Leiden auf dem Weg gen Westen
Authors: Liebelt Claudia
Published: March 2010

Philippinische Migrantinnen sind die Hausarbeiterinnen der globalen Arbeitsteilung schlechthin. Ihre Repräsentation als entrechtete, ausgebeutete und verletzliche Frauen als eine Form der diskursiven Viktimisierung begreifend, analysiert die Autorin in diesem Artikel die Selbstbilder der Migrantinnen. Diese erzählen sich als Märtyrerinnen des Dollars und vom Westen Träumende, somit als leidende Subjekte, die ihrer Handlungsmacht dennoch nicht beraubt sind. Erst ein Konzept von Leidenschaft und Leidensfähigkeit (passio) in Verschränkung mit Handlungsmacht (agency), so die Argumentation, ermöglicht es, diese mit bestimmten Praktiken verknüpften Bilder zu verstehen. Als empirische Analyse wirft das Fallbeispiel Licht auf neue Subjektivitätsformation in den Bruchzonen des globalen Kapitalismus und der zeitgenossischen Migration.
Der Rätselhafte Besucher als Agent der Transformation in Takashi Miike′s Film Visitor Q. Die Konstituierung von Agency durch passionierte Transgression
Authors: Köpping Klaus-Peter
Published: March 2010

In einer Analyse der narrativen Strukturen des Films Visitor Q“ von Takashi Miike aus dem Jahre 2001 wird versucht, die präsentierten Formen der Exzesse von Gewalt und Tabu-Brüchen als metaphorische Aussagen nicht nur über typisch japanische kulturelle Prägungen zu verstehen, sondern allgemein als Aussagen über die Transformation von Kultur zu Natur. Miike scheint dabei durch den Einsatz der schon von Pasolini in Teorema“ 1968 eingeführten Figur des rätselhaften Besuchers einen Mittler als Transformatoren zu zitieren, der auf interkulturelle mythische Vorbilder verweist. Es wird gezeigt, dass die Umwandlung von Gewalt aus der gesellschaftlichen in die natürliche Sphäre zu mehrfachen Umwandlungen der Protagonisten hinsichtlich von Agency und passivem Leiden führt. Das Modell der in der filmischen Erzählung ausgeführten Rabelais’schen Formen der Gewaltausübung durch natürliche“ Leidenschaften wird auf das Verhältnis von Film und Zuschauer angewendet über das Scharnier des Begriffs der Vergessenheit (Amnesie). Zentraler Punkt der Ausführungen bildet das metaphorische Spannungsverhältnis von gelebter Wirklichkeit und filmischer Realität und die Vieldeutigkeit der Verweisstrukturen.
Crystal and magnetic structures of the complex perovskites LaCu3(Mn4–x
Fe
x
)O12 with colossal magnetoresistance
Authors: Sanchez-Benitez Javier , Retuerto María , Martinez-Lope Maria Jesus , de la Calle Cristina , Fernández-Díaz Maria Teresa , Alonso José Antonio
Published: March 2010

We have studied the series of nominal composition LaCu3(Mn4–x
Fe
x
)O12 (x = 0.5, 1) where Mn is replaced by Fe cations in the ferrimagnetic perovskite LaCu3Mn4O12. These materials have been synthesized in polycrystalline form under moderate pressure conditions of 2 GPa, in the presence of KClO4 as oxidizing agent. All the samples have been studied by neutron powder diffraction (NPD) at room temperature (RT) in order to study the crystal structure. The sample with nominal x = 1 has also been studied by NPD at low temperature to determine its magnetic structure. These oxides crystallize in the cubic space group Im-3 (No. 204) with general formula A'A3B4O12 and contain La3+ and (Cu2+, Mn3+) at the A sublattice of the perovskite, in a 1 : 3 ordered arrangement. NPD suggests that Mn4+/Mn3+ and Fe3+ occupy at random the octahedral B positions of the perovskite structure. The materials have also been characterized by magnetic and magnetotransport measurements. All the samples are ferrimagnetic and show a progressive decrease of T
C as the Fe content increases. The replacement of Mn3+ cations by Fe3+ at the octahedral sublattice give rise to a decrease of T
C since the Fe ions disturb the ferromagnetic interactions within this magnetic sublattice. The introduction of Fe changes the resistivity response from metallic to a semiconductor behavior. However, the magnetoresistance remains unchanged upon Fe doping and a sharp low-field response is observed below T
C.
An investigation of the polytypical structure of Sr0.2Ba0.8CoO3–δ
by neutron powder diffraction
Authors: de la Calle Cristina , Alonso José Antonio , Aguadero Ainara , Fernández-Díaz Maria Teresa , Porcher Florence
Published: March 2010

The preparation and characterization of two polymorphs of the title composition are described. One hexagonal perovskite, labeled as “H”, was synthesized by thermal treatment of reactive citrate precursor at 900 °C in high oxygen pressure (20 MPa) followed by slow cooling (10 °C/min) to room temperature. This 1D-structure displays a P63/mmc hexagonal space group with a thermal expansion of 13 × 10–6 K–1 between 100 and 900 °C. On the other hand, for the first time in such a Ba-rich composition, a highly oxygen-defective perovskite oxide cubic polymorph, labeled as “C”, was obtained from the citrate precursor heated in air and quenched in liquid N2 from 1000 °C and completely characterized. Neutron powder diffraction evidence that the obtained “C” phase posses a cubic Pm-3m space group and antiferromagnetic order at room temperature. The material can be formulated as Sr0.2Ba0.8CoO2.27(1) where the high number of oxygen vacancies are random distributed with large thermal factors of 3.6 Å2 suggesting a considerable mobility.

The evolution of the crystal structure of the 3C phase has been explored in situ by XRD thermo-diffractometry in complement with thermal analysis and thermal expansion. At approx.500 °C this phase irreversibly transforms to a hexagonal “H” phase and at 925 °C a new cubic perovskite “C” is identified, which is transformed again, upon cooling, into the “H” phase at 840 °C.
Sri Lanka in 2009: From Civil War to Political Uncertainties
Authors: Uyangoda Jayadeva
Published: March 2010

Political developments in Sri Lanka in 2009 centered primarily around the end of the protracted civil war between the state and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), with the total military defeat of the LTTE. Sri Lanka subsequently entered an uncertain phase of post-civil war political reconstruction. The announcement to hold early presidential elections in January 2010 added to uncertainties to Sri Lanka's post-civil war political process. Sri Lanka also moved away from the West toward other Asian and Middle Eastern powers.
Afghanistan in 2009: Trying to Pull Back from the Brink
Authors: Mullen Rani D.
Published: March 2010

The state-building endeavor in Afghanistan became more tenuous in 2009. Charges of increased corruption against Afghan government officials were highlighted in a presidential election marred by fraud. Taliban and other insurgent activities escalated to spread to most parts of the country. Relations between the Afghan government and the major international donor countries also deteriorated. However, member countries of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan decided to increase international troop strength and tried to elicit greater commitment from the Afghan government to address problems of governance.
India in 2009: Global Financial Crisis and Congress Revival
Authors: Sharma Shalendra
Published: March 2010

The past year was a momentous one for India. The country navigated through the shoals of an unprecedented global financial crisis with only modest negative impact, and successfully continued the world's largest exercise in democracy. The 15th general election in April-May 2009 saw the venerable Congress Party return to power with a large mandate. On the external front, although ties between India and the Obama administration have been friendly, real concerns remain about the future trajectory of Indo-U.S. relations. Relations with Pakistan and China also remain testy.
Indonesia in 2009: Electoral Contestation and Economic Resilience
Authors: Mietzner Marcus
Published: March 2010

Indonesia in 2009 witnessed the election of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono to his second and final term in office. Rebounding from an all-time low in the opinion polls in mid-2008, Yudhoyono beat his opponents by initiating cleverly timed welfare programs for the poor and providing prudent leadership in the global economic crisis. Ten years after the end of autocratic rule, Indonesia has rather surprisingly established itself as Southeast Asia's most successful democracy.
Myanmar in 2009: A New Political Era?
Authors: Seekins Donald M.
Published: March 2010

The appearance of an unwanted visitor in Aung San Suu Kyi's lakeside compound in Yangon gave the SPDC military regime a pretext to extend her house arrest, while the refusal of major armed groups in the border areas to accept subordination under the Tatmadaw (armed forces) central command posed serious problems for Myanmar's future stability.
Laos in 2009: Recession and Southeast Asian Games
Authors: Jönsson Kristina
Published: March 2010

Laos in 2009 was colored by the Southeast Asian Games held in December, and by the effects of the global financial crisis. Growth rates declined as foreign investment, primarily in hydroelectric power and infrastructure, was postponed. Simultaneously, efforts were made to strengthen the reputation of the country internationally.
China in 2009: Muddling through Crises
Authors: Wu Guoguang
Published: March 2010

Various crises hit China in 2009, including an economic slowdown, social unrest, ethnic conflict, and political challenges from dissidents. The People's Republic of China's 60th anniversary was shadowed by the regime's fears of instability. The partystate, however, was able to manage the crises capably, although its methods yielded further problems.
North Korea in 2009: The Song Remains the Same
Authors: Oh Kongdan , Hassig Ralph
Published: March 2010

During the first half of 2009, North Korea's relations with South Korea remained frozen, and its second nuclear test angered the entire international community. Beginning in August, the regime adopted a softer foreign policy line, while insisting that it would never give up its nuclear weapons.
How Much for a Song? Local and National Representations of Quan Họ Folksong
Authors: Meeker Lauren
Published: March 2010

Since 1945, quan họ folksong has undergone increased institutionalization and professionalization. This article traces the history of those changes in the context of the relationship between local and national representations of quan họ. It also examines how local discourses on quan họ are constructed in relation to cultural restoration and commercialization. I focus on Diềm Village, Bắc Ninh Province, seen by locals and provincial and national officials as particularly representative of quan họ. Diềm has a strong sense of its own history, translating into local pride and awareness of the larger significance of representing its own traditions.
Workers' Protests in Contemporary Vietnam (with Some Comparisons to Those in the Pre-1975 South)
Authors: Kerkvliet Benedict J. Tria
Published: March 2010

During 1995–2008, workers in Vietnam instigated over 2,600 strikes, two-thirds of which occurred in the last four years. This article investigates what workers are demanding, what happens during strikes, their degree of organization, and the reactions of employers and state authorities to these protests. It also compares these workers' protests to labor unrest in the Republic of Vietnam. The analysis shows some similarities between the two periods in what workers have sought and the consequences of their protests. The contrasts, however, are more remarkable and help to highlight the significance of today's labor unrest for the current political system.
Involvement of a membrane skeletal protein, 4.1G, for Sertoli/germ cell interaction
Authors: Terada Nobuo , Ohno Nobuhiko , Saitoh Sei , Saitoh Yurika , Komada Masayuki , Kubota Hiroshi , Ohno Shinichi
Published: March 2010

We previously reported that a membrane skeletal protein, 4.1G (also known as EPB41L2), is immunolocalized in mouse seminiferous tubules. In this study, the 4.1G immunolocalizaiton was precisely evaluated at various stages of the mouse seminiferous epithelial cycle with ‘in vivocryotechnique’ and also with pre-embedding immunoelectron microscopy in testicular tissues whose ultrastructures were well preserved with glycerol treatment before cryosectioning. In addition, 4.1G-deficient mice were produced, and the morphology of their seminiferous tubules was also evaluated. The 4.1G immunolocalization was different among stages, indicating that it was not only along cell membranes of Sertoli cells, but also those of spermatogonia and early spermatocytes. To confirm the 4.1G immunolocalization in germ cells,in vitroculture of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) was used for immunocytochemistry and immunoblotting analysis. In the cultured SSCs, 4.1G was clearly expressed and immunolocalized along cell membranes, especially at mutual attaching regions. In testicular tissues, cell adhesion molecule-1 (CADM1), an intramembranous adhesion molecule, was colocalized on basal parts of the seminiferous tubules and immunoprecipitated with 4.1G in the tissue lysate. Interestingly, in the 4.1G-deficient mice, histological manifestation of the seminiferous tubules was not different from that in wild-type mice, and the CADM1 was also immunolocalized in the same pattern as that in the wild-type. Moreover, the 4.1G-deficient male mice were fertile. These results were probably due to functional redundancy of unknown membrane skeletal molecules in germ cells. Thus, a novel membrane skeletal protein, 4.1G, was found in germ cells, and considering its interaction with CADM family, it probably has roles in attachment of both Sertoli–germ and germ–germ cells.
Human sodium–iodide symporter (hNIS) gene expression is inhibited by a trans-active transcriptional repressor, NIS-repressor, containing PARP-1 in thyroid cancer cells
Authors: Li Wei , Ain Kenneth B
Published: March 2010

Radioiodine remains the only tumoricidal therapy for disseminated thyroid carcinomas; however, dedifferentiated tumors lose the expression of human sodium–iodide symporter (hNIS) gene, and cannot respond to this treatment. Previous studies suggested that a trans-active protein factor (NIS-repressor) represses endogenous hNIS transcription, likely contributing to the loss of radioiodine uptake, and defined the NIS-repressor binding site (NRBS) in the proximal hNIS promoter. Using electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA), we found evidence of NIS-repressor in the nuclear extract from KAK-1 cells, and confirmed this result using nuclear extracts prepared from multiple verified thyroid cell lines. Luciferase reporter assays of hNIS promoter constructs and EMSA were used to define two core sequences, NRBS-P and NRBS-D, in the hNIS promoter as the binding sites for NIS-repressor. Electrophoretic analysis of KAK-1 nuclear extract proteins cross-linked with NRBS-P suggests that NIS-repressor is a protein complex. Analysis of KAK-1 nuclear extract proteins bound to NRBS-P, via liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectroscopy, demonstrated poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP-1) as a NIS-repressor component. Pharmacological inhibition of PARP-1 enzymatic activity using PJ34 stimulated both the luciferase reporter activity driven by hNIS promoter and the endogenous hNIS mRNA level. Supershift studies suggest that thyroid transcription factor 2 (TTF-2) is also associated with the NIS-repressor complex. NIS-repressor, including its PARP-1 component, presents a potential therapeutic target to restore radioiodine uptake in dedifferentiated thyroid carcinomas.
Increased intratumoral androgens in human breast carcinoma following aromatase inhibitor exemestane treatment
Authors: Takagi Kiyoshi , Miki Yasuhiro , Nagasaki Shuji , Hirakawa Hisashi , Onodera Yoshiaki , Akahira Jun-ichi , Ishida Takanori , Watanabe Mika , Kimijima Izo , Hayashi Shin-ichi , Sasano Hironobu , Suzuki Takashi
Published: March 2010

Sex steroids play important roles in the development of many human breast carcinomas, and aromatase inhibitors are used for the anti-estrogen therapy. Recent studies have demonstrated that aromatase suppressed 5α-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) synthesis in breast carcinoma cells, but intratumoral concentration of androgens and its significance have not been reported in the breast carcinoma patients treated with aromatase inhibitors. Therefore, we examined androgen concentrations in breast carcinoma tissues treated with exemestane, and further performed in vitro studies to characterize the significance of androgen actions. Intratumoral DHT concentration was significantly higher in breast carcinoma tissues following exemestane treatment (n=9) than those without the therapy (n=7), and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (17βHSD2) status was significantly altered to be positive after the treatment. Following in vitro studies showed that 17βHSD2 expression was dose dependently induced by both DHT and exemestane in T-47D breast carcinoma cells, but these inductions were not additive. DHT-mediated induction of 17βHSD2 expression was markedly suppressed by estradiol (E2) in T-47D cells. E2-mediated cell proliferation was significantly inhibited by DHT in T-47D cells, associated with an increment of 17βHSD2 expression level. These findings suggest that intratumoral androgen actions are increased during exemestane treatment. 17βHSD2 is a potent DHT-induced gene in human breast carcinoma, and may not only be involved in anti-proliferative effects of DHT on breast carcinoma cells but also serve as a potential marker for response to aromatase inhibitor in the breast carcinoma patients.
Silencing of the microtubule-associated proteins doublecortin-like and doublecortin-like kinase-long induces apoptosis in neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Verissimo Carla S , Molenaar Jan J , Meerman John , Puigvert Jordi Carreras , Lamers Fieke , Koster Jan , Danen Erik H J , van de Water Bob , Versteeg Rogier , Fitzsimons Carlos P , Vreugdenhil Erno
Published: March 2010

Doublecortin-like kinase-long (DCLK-long) and doublecortin-like (DCL) are two splice variants of DCLK gene. DCL and DCLK-long are microtubule-associated proteins with specific expression in proliferative neural progenitor cells. We have tested the hypothesis that knockdown of DCL/DCLK-long by RNA interference technology will induce cell death in neuroblastoma (NB) cells. First, we analyzed the expression of DCL and DCLK-long in several human neuroblastic tumors, other tumors, and normal tissues, revealing high expression of both DCL and DCLK-long in NB and glioma. Secondly, gene expression profiling revealed numerous differentially expressed genes indicating apoptosis induction after DCL/DCLK-long knockdown in NB cells. Finally, apoptosis was confirmed by time-lapse imaging of phosphatidylserine translocation, caspase-3 activation, live/dead double staining assays, and fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Together, our results suggest that silencing DCL/DCLK-long induces apoptosis in NB cells.
A Scaling-up Approach from Experimental Tunnel to Spray Dryer
Authors: Li Xuan-You , Zbicinski Ireneusz , Wu Jing
Published: March 2010

A scaling-up approach from drying of a thin layer wet material in a experimental tunnel to a pilot scale spray drying was developed through determining drying kinetics of quick evaporation process. Maltodextin was selected as solid material in solution to be dried. Critical moisture contents as a function of initial water evaporation rate (drying rate) shows that there is the same variation between the small scale test tunnel and the pilot scale spray dryer. Result of CFD modelling demonstrates that drying kinetics obtained from the small-scale tunnel could be properly applied to scale-up the spray drying process.
Technology Uncertainty and Market Collusion
Authors: Labrecciosa Paola , Colombo Luca
Published: March 2010

In this paper, we propose technology uncertainty as a new factor relevant to market collusion. We analyze an infinitely repeated quantity game where, for each firm, the marginal productivity of the input employed in the production process is affected by an unobservable shock. Each firm faces technology uncertainty, measured by the variance of the shocks, in every period. We show that, under both grim trigger strategies and optimal punishments, technology uncertainty enhances cartel stability, suggesting that, in industries characterized by technology uncertainty, the actions of the antitrust authorities should be intensified. We also show that collusion is less likely when technology shocks are highly correlated, implying that regulators interested in deterring collusion should promote the formation of industrial clusters.
Perceived managerial discretion and firm performance: The moderating role of market competition
Authors: Zhao Xi-Ping , Chu Po-Young , Chen Chia-Yi
Published: March 2010

Despite being widely discussed in the literature, the impact of managerial discretion on firm performance remains inconclusive. In this study it is proposed that market competitiveness plays an important role in determining the influence of perceived managerial discretion on firm performance.
In a survey of 169 top managers of Chinese enterprises, it was found that in highly competitive markets, perceived managerial discretion was positively related to firm performance. In contrast, where there is little competition, perceived managerial discretion and firm performance were negatively
correlated. These results suggest that companies operating in highly competitive markets should permit managers greater discretion to make strategic choices to react to the dynamics of the environment. Conversely, companies in less competitive markets should limit managerial discretion to
prevent managers abusing this power for personal benefits.
The relationship between motivation and achievement in low-stakes examinations
Authors: Abdelfattah Faisal
Published: March 2010

Achievement tests are used in several settings in applied measurement. A serious problem inherent in low-stakes tests is that it cannot be assumed that all examinees will make their best effort, which suggests that test scores of some examinees may underrate the level of academic performance
of which they are capable. In this study the relationship between motivation and achievement in low-stakes examinations was examined. A sample (N = 797) of ninth-grade students sat either a mathematics or a science examination. It was found that a high level of motivation to take the
examination invariably increased mean performance in both examinations and the correlation was significant.
The effect of dysfunctional conflict on learning performance: The role of cognitive style
Authors: Miao Min-Chih , Tien Ching-Ting , Chang Huo-Tsan , Ko Yu-Yuan
Published: March 2010

The aim in this study was to determine if relationship conflict has a greater impact on learning performance than does process conflict. Inconsistent results in the relationship between dysfunctional conflict and learning performance have been found in past studies. The effects of dysfunctional
conflict on learning performance in a Chinese cultural context, were explored with cognitive style as a moderator. Results show that the relationship between process conflict and learning performance is quadratic. Importantly, it was found that relationship conflict has a greater effect on
learning performance than does process conflict. Cognitive style is a moderator in the relationship between process conflict and learning performance and under and analytical cognitive style, the relationship is U-shaped.
Influence of prestudy on foreign language learning attitude
Authors: Mirici Ismail Hakki
Published: March 2010

In this experimental study, based on qualitative and quantitative data collection from an experimental and a control group, the influence of 2 different ways of prestudy on foreign language learning attitude of the upper-intermediate level of English language learners was investigated.
One prestudy program was based on specially designed familiarization handout-materials comprising topic-related reading activities, the other program entailed using a dictionary focusing on the words used in the target unit. Students who worked with the handout were significantly more motivated,
active, and interactive than those who worked with a dictionary. In addition, teachers felt that students who did prestudy using handouts found the unit more meaningful and developed a better attitude towards learning a foreign language than did those who relied on a dictionary.
Relationships between features of collage works, block works, and personality
Authors: Kato Daiki , Morita Miyako
Published: March 2010

Features of collage works and block works were examined from the viewpoints of form and content in particular. Relationships between the Tokyo University Egogram scores and these features were then examined. The participants with high Critical Parent scores tended to correlate with
the number of human figures (r = .56, p < .10) and plants (r = -.55, p < .10) present in their collage works and with the number of basic blocks (r = -.67, p < .05). Meanwhile, those with high Adult scores correlated with the number of human
figures (r = .57, p < .10) present in their collages and the number of basic blocks (r = -.62, p < .10). Finally, those with high Free Child scores tended to correlate with the area of expression (r = .72, p < .05) in collage works and the
number of specific blocks (r = .65, p < .05).
Local Non-Esterified Fatty Acids Correlate With Inflammation in Atheroma Plaques of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Mas Sebastián , Martínez-Pinna Roxana , Martín-Ventura Jose Luis , Pérez Raul , Gomez-Garre Dulcenombre , Ortiz Alberto , Fernandez-Cruz Arturo , Vivanco Fernando , Egido Jesús
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

Atherosclerosis is prevalent in diabetic patients, but there is little information on the localization of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFAs) within the plaque and their relationship with inflammation. We sought to characterize the NEFA composition and location in human diabetic atheroma plaques by metabolomic analysis and imaging and to address their relationship with inflammation activity.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (TOF-SIMS) was used for metabolomic analysis imaging of frozen carotid atheroma plaques. Carotid endarterectomy specimens were used for conventional immunohistochemistry, laser-capture microdissection quantitative PCR, and in situ Southwestern hybridization. Biological actions of linoleic acid were studied in cultured vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).

RESULTS

TOF-SIMS imaging evidenced a significant increase in the quantity of several NEFA in diabetic versus nondiabetic atheroma plaques. Higher levels of NEFA were also found in diabetic sera. The presence of LPL mRNA in NEFA-rich areas of the atheroma plaque, as well as the lack of correlation between serum and plaque NEFA, suggests a local origin for plaque NEFA. The pattern of distribution of plaque NEFA is similar to that of MCP-1, LPL, and activated NF-κB. Diabetic endarterectomy specimens showed higher numbers of infiltrating macrophages and T-lymphocytes—a finding that associated with higher NEFA levels. Finally, linoleic acid activates NF-κB and upregulates NF-κB–mediated LPL and MCP-1 expression in cultured VSMC.

DISCUSSION

There is an increased presence of NEFA in diabetic plaque neointima. NEFA levels are higher in diabetic atheroma plaques than in nondiabetic subjects. We hypothesize that NEFA may be produced locally and contribute to local inflammation.
High-Mobility Group Box-1 Protein Promotes Angiogenesis After Peripheral Ischemia in Diabetic Mice Through a VEGF-Dependent Mechanism
Authors: Biscetti Federico , Straface Giuseppe , De Cristofaro Raimondo , Lancellotti Stefano , Rizzo Paola , Arena Vincenzo , Stigliano Egidio , Pecorini Giovanni , Egashira Kensuke , De Angelis Giulia , Ghirlanda Giovanni , Flex Andrea
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

High-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) protein is a nuclear DNA-binding protein released from necrotic cells, inducing inflammatory responses and promoting tissue repair and angiogenesis. Diabetic human and mouse tissues contain lower levels of HMGB1 than their normoglycemic counterparts. Deficient angiogenesis after ischemia contributes to worse outcomes of peripheral arterial disease in patients with diabetes. To test the hypothesis that HMGB1 enhances ischemia-induced angiogenesis in diabetes, we administered HMGB1 protein in a mouse hind limb ischemia model using diabetic mice.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

After the induction of diabetes by streptozotocin, we studied ischemia-induced neovascularization in the ischemic hind limb of normoglycemic, diabetic, and HMGB1-treated diabetic mice.

RESULTS

We found that the perfusion recovery was significantly attenuated in diabetic mice compared with normoglycemic control mice. Interestingly, HMGB1 protein expression was lower in the ischemic tissue of diabetic mice than in normoglycemic mice. Furthermore, we observed that HMGB1 administration restored the blood flow recovery and capillary density in the ischemic muscle of diabetic mice, that this process was associated with the increased expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and that HMGB1-induced angiogenesis was significantly reduced by inhibiting VEGF activity.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study show that endogenous HMGB1 is crucial for ischemia-induced angiogenesis in diabetic mice and that HMGB1 protein administration enhances collateral blood flow in the ischemic hind limbs of diabetic mice through a VEGF-dependent mechanism.
Peroxisome Proliferator–Activated Receptor-γ Coactivator-1α Overexpression Increases Lipid Oxidation in Myocytes From Extremely Obese Individuals
Authors: Consitt Leslie A. , Bell Jill A. , Koves Timothy R. , Muoio Deborah M. , Hulver Matthew W. , Haynie Kimberly R. , Dohm G. Lynis , Houmard Joseph A.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether the obesity-related decrement in fatty acid oxidation (FAO) in primary human skeletal muscle cells (HSkMC) is linked with lower mitochondrial content and whether this deficit could be corrected via overexpression of peroxisome proliferator–activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

FAO was studied in HSkMC from lean (BMI 22.4 ± 0.9 kg/m2; N = 12) and extremely obese (45.3 ± 1.4 kg/m2; N = 9) subjects. Recombinant adenovirus was used to increase HSkMC PGC-1α expression (3.5- and 8.0-fold), followed by assessment of mitochondrial content (mtDNA and cytochrome C oxidase IV [COXIV]), complete (14CO2 production from labeled oleate), and incomplete (acid soluble metabolites [ASM]) FAO, and glycerolipid synthesis.

RESULTS

Obesity was associated with a 30% decrease (P < 0.05) in complete FAO, which was accompanied by higher relative rates of incomplete FAO ([14C]ASM production/14CO2), increased partitioning of fatty acid toward storage, and lower (P < 0.05) mtDNA (−27%), COXIV (−35%), and mitochondrial transcription factor (mtTFA) (−43%) protein levels. PGC-1α overexpression increased (P < 0.05) FAO, mtDNA, COXIV, mtTFA, and fatty acid incorporation into triacylglycerol in both lean and obese groups. Perturbations in FAO, triacylglycerol synthesis, mtDNA, COXIV, and mtTFA in obese compared with lean HSkMC persisted despite PGC-1α overexpression. When adjusted for mtDNA and COXIV content, FAO was equivalent between lean and obese groups.

CONCLUSION

Reduced mitochondrial content is related to impaired FAO in HSkMC derived from obese individuals. Increasing PGC-1α protein levels did not correct the obesity-related absolute reduction in FAO or mtDNA content, implicating mechanisms other than PGC-1α abundance.
Long-Term Outcomes of Diabetic Patients With Critical Limb Ischemia Followed in a Tertiary Referral Diabetic Foot Clinic
Authors: Uccioli Luigi , Gandini Roberto , Giurato Laura , Fabiano Sebastiano , Pampana Enrico , Spallone Vincenza , Vainieri Erika , Simonetti Giovanni
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

We describe the long-term outcomes of 510 diabetic patients with critical limb ischemia (CLI) and an active foot ulcer or gangrene, seen at the University Hospital of Rome Tor Vergata, a tertiary care clinic.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

These patients were seen between November 2002 and November 2007 (mean follow-up 20 ± 13 months [range 1–66 months]). The Texas Wound Classification was used to grade these wounds that were either class C (ischemia) and D (ischemia+infection) and grade 2–3 (deep–very deep). This comprehensive treatment protocol includes rapid and extensive initial debridement, aggressive use of peripheral percutaneous angioplasty, empirical intravenous antibiotic therapy, and strict follow-up.

RESULTS

The protocol was totally applied (with percutaneous angioplasty [PA+]) in 456 (89.4%) patients and partially (without percutaneous angioplasty [PA−]) in 54 (10.6%) patients. Outcomes for the whole group and PA+ and PA− patients are, respectively: healing, n = 310 (60.8%), n = 284 (62.3%), and n = 26 (48.1%); major amputation, n = 80 (15.7%), n = 67 (14.7%), and n = 13 (24.1%); death, n = 83 (16.25%), n = 68 (14.9%), and n = 15 (27.8%); and nonhealing, n = 37 (7.25%), n = 37 (8.1%), and n = 0 (0%) (χ2 <0.0009). Predicting variables at multivariate analysis were the following: for healing, ulcer dimension, infection, and ischemic heart disease; and for major amputation, ulcer dimension, number of minor amputations, and age. Additional predicting variables for PA+ patients were the following: for healing, transcutaneous oxygen tension [ΔTcPo2]; and for major amputation, basal TcPo2, basal A1C, ΔTcPo2, and percutaneous angioplasty technical failure.

CONCLUSIONS

Early diagnosis of CLI, aggressive treatment of infection, and extensive use of percutaneous angioplasty in ischemic affected ulcers offers improved outcome for many previously at-risk limbs. Ulcer size >5 cm2 indicates a reduced chance of healing and increased risk of major amputation. It was thought that all ulcers warrant aggressive treatment including percutaneous angioplasty and that treatment should be considered even for small ischemic ulcers.
Testosterone Concentrations in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Obese Men
Authors: Dhindsa Sandeep , Miller Michael G. , McWhirter Cecilia L. , Mager Donald E. , Ghanim Husam , Chaudhuri Ajay , Dandona Paresh
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of subnormal testosterone concentrations in patients with obesity and with type 2 diabetes in a primary care clinic population.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Free testosterone concentrations of 1,849 men (1,451 nondiabetic and 398 diabetic) in the Hypogonadism In Males (HIM) study were analyzed. The HIM study was a U.S.-based cross-sectional study designed to define the prevalence of hypogonadism in men aged >45 years. Free testosterone was measured by equilibrium dialysis.

RESULTS

The prevalence of subnormal free testosterone concentrations in lean, overweight, and obese nondiabetic men was 26% (n = 275), 29% (n = 687), and 40% (n = 489), respectively (P < 0.001 for trend), and 44% (n = 36), 44% (n = 135), and 50% (n = 227), respectively, in diabetic men (P = 0.46 for trend within group and P < 0.05 compared with nondiabetic men). The mean free testosterone concentration of diabetic men was significantly lower than that of nondiabetic men. Free testosterone concentrations were negatively and significantly (P < 0.001) related to age (r = −0.37), BMI (r = −0.18), and sex hormone–binding globulin (r = −0.11) in multiple regression analysis. The average decline of free testosterone concentrations was 7.8 pg/ml per decade in nondiabetic men and 8.4 pg/ml per decade in diabetic men.

CONCLUSIONS

Forty percent of obese nondiabetic men and 50% of obese diabetic men aged ≥45 years have subnormal free testosterone concentrations. In view of its high prevalence, obesity is probably the condition most frequently associated with subnormal free testosterone concentrations in males. The concomitant presence of diabetes is associated with an additional increase in the prevalence of subnormal free testosterone concentrations.
Improvement of Postprandial Endothelial Function After a Single Dose of Exenatide in Individuals With Impaired Glucose Tolerance and Recent-Onset Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Koska Juraj , Schwartz Eric A. , Mullin Michael P. , Schwenke Dawn C. , Reaven Peter D.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

Endothelial dysfunction is frequently present in individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes and can be induced by high-fat or high-carbohydrate meals. Because exenatide reduces postprandial glucose and lipid excursions, we hypothesized that it may also improve postprandial endothelial function.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In a double-blinded randomized crossover design, postprandial endothelial function was examined in 28 individuals with impaired glucose tolerance or recent-onset type 2 diabetes after a single injection of exenatide or placebo given just before a high-fat meal. Endothelial function was determined with peripheral arterial tonometry pre- and postprandially.

RESULTS

Postprandial endothelial function was higher after exenatide compared with placebo (P = 0.0002). In the placebo phase, postprandial change in endothelial function was inversely associated with mean postprandial concentrations of triglycerides (r = −0.62, P = 0.0004). Changes in postprandial triglyceride concentrations explained 64% of exenatide's effect on postprandial endothelial function.

CONCLUSIONS

Exenatide ameliorates postprandial endothelial dysfunction after a high-fat meal.
Educational Disparities in Mortality Among Adults With Diabetes in the U.S.
Authors: Dray-Spira Rosemary , Gary-Webb Tiffany L. , Brancati Frederick L.
Published: March 2010

OBJECTIVE

To measure relative and absolute educational disparities in mortality among U.S. adults with diabetes and to compare their magnitude with disparities observed within the nondiabetic population.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 85,867 individuals (5,007 with diabetes), aged 35–84 years, who participated in the National Health Interview Survey from 1986 to 1996 were followed for mortality through 31 December 2002. Relative and absolute educational disparities in all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and non-CVD mortality were measured.

RESULTS

In relative terms, the risk of all-cause mortality was 28% higher in diabetic adults with the lowest versus the highest position on the educational scale (relative index of inequality 1.28 [95% CI 1.08–1.53]). This inverse relationship reflected marked disparities in CVD mortality and was found in all age, sex, and race/ethnicity groups except Hispanics. Although substantial, this relative educational gradient in mortality among adults with diabetes was smaller than in the nondiabetic population. In absolute terms, diabetic adults with the lowest position on the educational scale suffered 503 excess deaths per 10,000 person-years of follow-up compared with those with the highest position. These absolute disparities were stronger than in the nondiabetic population. The results were even more striking for CVD mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk of mortality differs substantially according to educational level among individuals with diabetes in the U.S. Although relative educational disparities in mortality are weaker in adults with versus without diabetes, their absolute impact is greater and translates into a major mortality burden.
Subsurface structure and tectonic style of the NE Outer Carpathians (Poland) on the basis of integrated 2D interpretation of geological and geophysical images
Authors: Kuśmierek Jan
Published: March 2010

Subsurface structure and tectonic style of the NE Outer Carpathians (Poland) on the basis of integrated 2D interpretation of geological and geophysical images

Integration of the information from surface and subsurface geological exploration (maps and well sections) and results of geological reinterpretation of more than ten archival seismic sections and several dozen magnetotelluric soundings (MT; published and archival) implies a new structural picture of the Carpathian tectogene, interpreted to depths exceeding 10 km. The tectonics of nappes and their basement is illustrated by four regional cross-sections (derived from geological and petroleum-exploration traverses) and examples of detailed interpretation of zones with complicated structure, as well as results of testing the initial structural models with application of the balanced cross-section method and gravimetric modelling. In the tectonics, a complicated system of overthrusts and detachments of sedimentary covers (from their heterogeneous basement) represents a predominant feature. It induced, within particular nappes and tectonically altered structural-facies units, specific systems of narrow folds with diversified geometries. Broad folds of the intermediate structural stage, which are gently sloping in the hinterland of the nappes, were interpreted on the basis of geophysics as paraautochthonous elements. They cover deep-seated faults with large throws, which obliquely or subvertically dip to the SW and were distinguished in the basement on the grounds of extreme contrasts at the resistivity boundaries. Zones of dramatically low resistivities, which separate blocks of the uplifted basement, were interpreted as tectonic sutures with geometry rebuilt in the stage of the Neogene lithosphere subduction. Therefore, the structural layout of the sedimentary cover is characterized by more gently dipping nappe overthrusts of the sequential type and secondary, out-of-sequence thrust slices, most frequently imbricate ones. The flysch covers resting over the tectonic sutures, particularly in margins of inherited structural depressions, are characterized by more diversified tectonic style in comparison with peripheral, gently-sloping covers thrust over the flexural platform slope, and with steep slices and imbricate thrusts having consequent NE vergence. A specific type of dislocation is represented by flat inversional detachments (seismically documented) which are accompanied by disharmonic folding of "thin-skinned" structural elements. In the eastern part of the foreland of the Dukla overthrust, they form a developed system of backthrusts on the slope of a triangular structure superposed on a "shallower" tectonic suture of the basement; the system replaces sets of fault-propagation folds developed in the eastern part of this zone.
Asymptotics of the Spectral Density for Radial Dirac Operators with Divergent Potentials
Authors: Eastham Michael S.P. , Schmidt Karl Michael
Published: March 2010

We study the asymptotics of the spectral density of one-dimensional Dirac systems on the half-line with an angular momentum term and a potential tending to inﬁnity at inﬁnity. The problem has two singular end-points; however, as the spectrum is simple, the derivative of the spectral matrix has only one non-zero eigenvalue which we take to be the spectral density. Our main result shows that, assuming sufﬁcient regularity of the potential, there are no points of spectral concentration for large values of the spectral parameter outside a neighbourhood of a discrete set of exceptional points.
Seven years' experience in laparoscopic dissection of intact ovarian dermoid cysts
Authors: KAVALLARIS ANDREAS , MYTAS SOTYRIS , CHALVATZAS NEKTARIOS , NIKOLETTOS NITROS , DIEDRICH KLAUS , BOHLMANN MICHAEL K , HORNEMANN AMADEUS
Published: March 2010

A large case series on laparoscopic removal of dermoid cysts with a diameter between 3 and 12 cm, via an endobag, is reported (127 cysts in 121 premenopausal women). The incidence of spillage and recurrence rate of laparoscopic ovarian dermoid cystectomy, the duration of the surgical procedure, the length of hospitalization, the incidence of recurrence and pregnancies was evaluated. In 2.5% of cases, the endobag ruptured during removal, and a total spillage rate of 12% was seen. No signs or symptoms of peritonitis were observed regardless of cystic spillage or not. Laparoscopic cystectomy of dermoid cysts in premenopausal women is safe and effective and appears to be a valuable alternative to laparotomy. Controlled intraperitoneal spillage of cyst contents does not increase postoperative morbidity as long as an endobag is used and the peritoneal cavity is washed out thoroughly.