bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acute Hemolysis Following Iodine Tincture Ingestion
Authors: Mao Yan-Chiao , Tsai Wei-Jen , Wu Ming-Ling , Ger Jiin , Deng Jou-Fang , Yang Chen-Chang
Published: February 2011

Iodine tincture poisoning is uncommon regardless of its widespread use as an antiseptic in daily practice. Previously reported effects of iodine-containing antiseptic poisoning included topical irritation, corrosive effects, allergic response, and hepatic or renal injury, which mainly resulted from complications of topical use during surgical procedures. We herein reported an unusual case of severe hemolysis and acute renal failure following intentional ingestion of iodine tincture containing 60 mg/ml iodine and 40 mg/ml potassium iodide in 70% v/v ethanol. The patient completely recovered 8 weeks later after receiving supportive treatment, plasma exchange, and temporary hemodialysis.
Systemic lupus erythematosus presenting as ischaemic proctitis
Authors: Chattopadhyay P , Philips C Abby , Dhua D , Saha S
Published: February 2011

Ischaemic colitis is relatively uncommon in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), with only very few case reports or case series in world literature. Ischaemic colitis occurs when SLE activity is high and is inarguably due to small vessel vasculitis affecting the large or small intestine. Ischaemic proctitis with rectal ulceration, as a presenting feature in SLE, is even rarer with only two case reports in the world to date. We present the case of a 38-year-old woman, who presented with haematochezia which subsequently proved to be due to ischaemic proctitis with a large rectal ulcer in a case that was subsequently diagnosed as SLE. The clinical course in this patient greatly improved with aggressive management with systemic steroids.
Test–retest reliability of hand-held dynamometry and functional tests in systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Stockton KA , Wrigley TV , Mengersen KA , Kandiah DA , Paratz JD , Bennell KL
Published: February 2011

The aim of this study was to evaluate the test–retest reliability and determine the degree of measurement error of tests of isometric muscle strength and upper and lower limb function in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Twelve women with SLE (age 39.8 ± 10 years) were assessed on two occasions separated by a 7–10-day interval. Strength of six muscle groups was measured using a hand-held dynamometer; function was measured by the 30-s sit to stand test and the 30-s 1 kg arm lift. Relative reliability was estimated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), model 2,1 (ICC2,1). Absolute reliability was estimated using standard error measurement and the minimal detectable difference was calculated. All ICCs were greater than 0.87. Muscle strength would need to increase by between 18% and 39% in women with SLE to be 95% confident of detecting real changes. The functional tests demonstrated a systematic bias between trials. This study demonstrates that hand-held dynamometry in SLE can be performed with excellent reliability. Further work needs to be completed to determine the number of trials necessary for both the 30-s sit to stand and 30-s 1 kg arm lift to decrease the systematic bias.
Task Force on Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) and Non-criteria APS Manifestations (I): catastrophic APS, APS nephropathy and heart valve lesions
Authors: Cervera R , Tektonidou MG , Espinosa G , Cabral AR , González EB , Erkan D , Vadya S , Adrogué HE , Solomon M , Zandman-Goddard G , Shoenfeld Y
Published: February 2011

The objectives of the ‘Task Force on Catastrophic Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) and Non-criteria APS Manifestations’ were to assess the clinical utility of the international consensus statement on classification criteria and treatment guidelines for the catastrophic APS, to identify and grade the studies that analyse the relationship between the antiphospholipid antibodies and the non-criteria APS manifestations and to present the current evidence regarding the accuracy of these non-criteria APS manifestations for the detection of patients with APS. This article summarizes the studies analysed on the catastrophic APS, APS nephropathy and heart valve lesions, and presents the recommendations elaborated by the Task Force after this analysis.
Antiphospholipid Syndrome Clinical Research Task Force Report
Authors: Erkan D , Derksen R , Levy R , Machin S , Ortel T , Pierangeli S , Roubey R , Lockshin M
Published: February 2011

The Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) Clinical Research Task Force (CRTF) was one of six Task Forces developed by the 13th International Congress on Antiphospholipid Antibodies (aPL) organization committee with the purpose of: a) evaluating the limitations of APS clinical research and developing guidelines for researchers to help improve the quality of APS research; and b) prioritizing the ideas for a well-designed multicenter clinical trial and discussing the pragmatics of getting such a trial done. Following a systematic working algorithm, the Task Force identified five major issues that impede APS clinical research and the ability to develop evidence-based recommendations for the management of aPL-positive patients: (1) aPL detection has been based on partially or non-standardized tests, and clinical (and basic) APS research studies have included patients with heterogeneous aPL profiles with different clinical event risks; (2) clinical (and basic) APS research studies have included a heterogeneous group of patients with different aPL-related manifestations (some controversial); (3) thrombosis and/or pregnancy risk stratification and quantification are rarely incorporated in APS clinical research; (4) most APS clinical studies include patients with single positive aPL results and/or low-titer aPL ELISA results; furthermore, study designs are mostly retrospective and not population based, with limited number of prospective and/or controlled population studies; and (5) lack of the understanding the particular mechanisms of aPL-mediated clinical events limits the optimal clinical study design. The Task Force recommended that there is an urgent need for a truly international collaborative approach to design and conduct well-designed prospective large-scale multi-center clinical trials of patients with persistent and clinically significant aPL profiles. An international collaborative meeting to formulate a good research question using ‘FINER’ (Feasible; Interesting; Novel; Ethical; and Relevant) criteria took place in November 2010.
Report of the Obstetric APS Task Force: 13th International Congress on Antiphospholipid Antibodies, 13th April 2010
Authors: Branch W
Published: February 2011

The Obstetric APS Task Force of the 13th International Congress identified and discussed five general topics within ‘Obstetric’ Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APS) that contained areas of controversy or uncertainty: recurrent early miscarriage (REM), fetal death, delivery <34 weeks for severe preeclampsia or placental insufficiency, postpartum care, and long-term implications and care. The Task Force concluded that the frequency with which women with REM have a high titer of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) or lupus anticoagulant (LA) is somewhat controversial, especially with regard to the diagnostic titers required by the current international criteria for APS. Also, treatment trials involving heparin differ from one another with regard to the patients included and the outcomes achieved. Similarly, the frequency with which women with fetal death or delivery <34 weeks for severe preeclampsia or placental insufficiency have a high titer of aPL or LA is poorly defined, and there is no level I evidence to guide treatment in either group. Suggestions for future studies with regard to both REM and fetal death or delivery <34 weeks for severe preeclampsia or placental insufficiency were discussed and are outlined below. Postpartum and long-term care in women with APS diagnosed solely for obstetric criteria has been largely guided by expert opinion, and systematic evaluations of these populations would be welcome.
‘Non-criteria’ aPL tests: report of a task force and preconference workshop at the 13th International Congress on Antiphospholipid Antibodies, Galveston, TX, USA, April 2010
Authors: Bertolaccini ML , Amengual O , Atsumi T , Binder WL , Laat B de , Forastiero R , Kutteh WH , Lambert M , Matsubayashi H , Murthy V , Petri M , Rand JH , Sanmarco M , Tebo AE , Pierangeli SS
Published: February 2011

Abstract: Current classification criteria for definite APS recommend the use of one or more of three positive standardized laboratory assays, including anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL), lupus anticoagulant (LA), and antibodies directed to β2glycoprotein I (anti-β2GPI) to detect antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) in the presence of at least one of the two major clinical manifestations (i.e., thrombosis or pregnancy morbidity) of the syndrome. Several other autoantibodies shown to be directed to phospholipids and/or their complexes with phospholipids and/or to proteins of the coagulation cascade, as well as a mechanistic test for resistance to annexin A5 anticoagulant activity, have been proposed to be relevant to APS. A task force of worldwide scientists in the field discussed and analyzed critical questions related to ‘non-criteria’ aPL tests in an evidence-based manner during the 13th International Congress on Antiphospholipid Antibodies (APLA 2010, 13–16 April 2010, Galveston, Texas, USA). This report summarizes the findings, conclusions, and recommendations of this task force.
Comparing measurement error correction methods for rate-of-change exposure variables in survival analysis
Authors: Veronesi Giovanni , Ferrario Marco M , Chambless Lloyd E
Published: February 2011

In this article we focus on comparing measurement error correction methods for rate-of-change exposure variables in survival analysis, when longitudinal data are observed prior to the follow-up time. Motivational examples include the analysis of the association between changes in cardiovascular risk factors and subsequent onset of coronary events. We derive a measurement error model for the rate of change, estimated through subject-specific linear regression, assuming an additive measurement error model for the time-specific measurements. The rate of change is then included as a time-invariant variable in a Cox proportional hazards model, adjusting for the first time-specific measurement (baseline) and an error-free covariate. In a simulation study, we compared bias, standard deviation and mean squared error (MSE) for the regression calibration (RC) and the simulation-extrapolation (SIMEX) estimators. Our findings indicate that when the amount of measurement error is substantial, RC should be the preferred method, since it has smaller MSE for estimating the coefficients of the rate of change and of the variable measured without error. However, when the amount of measurement error is small, the choice of the method should take into account the event rate in the population and the effect size to be estimated. An application to an observational study, as well as examples of published studies where our model could have been applied, are also provided.
Issues, Policies, and Recommendations for Improving the Education of Learners With Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Simpson Richard L. , Mundschenk Nancy A. , Heflin L. Juane
Published: February 2011

Children and youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) create significant challenges to educators and the educational system not only based on their ever-increasing numbers but also because of the questions and debates surrounding how best to provide them an appropriate and effective education. These issues include the skills, knowledge, and professional credentials of educators who teach learners with ASD, which settings are best suited for their educational experiences, and what and how children and youth with ASD should be taught. In this article the authors address these three core elements that underpin the education of pupils with ASD and offer recommendations for improving the present system.
Exploration of Intergenerational Aspects of Affect Regulation in the Context of Substance Abuse
Authors: Priddis Lynn E. , Wallace Mary-Anne
Published: February 2011

The authors conducted the Adult Attachment Inventory (AAI) with 17 parents of adult substance-using children. Qualitative analysis identified common patterns in the histories including minimization of affect in their families of origin. Intergenerational implications for counseling are discussed.
Bovine Meat Proteins as Potential Precursors of Biologically Active Peptides - a Computational Study based on the BIOPEP Database
Authors: Minkiewicz P. , Dziuba J. , Michalska J.
Published: February 2011

The aim of the present study was to perform an in silico evaluation of bovine meat proteins as potential precursors of biologically active peptides, as well as to determine whether such peptides can be released by selected proteolytic enzymes. The sequences of 19 bovine meat proteins were processed using the BIOPEP database and program. The profiles of potential biological activity of protein fragments were determined and the following parameters were calculated: the frequency of occurrence of fragments with given activity (A), the frequency of release of fragments with given activity by selected enzymes (AE), and the relative frequency of release of fragments with given activity by selected enzymes (W). Among the examined proteins, collagen and elastin appear to be the richest potential source of bioactive peptides, in particular of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, antithrombotic fragments, inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase IV and peptides regulating gastric mucosal activity. The high number of bioactive fragments in collagen and elastin is associated with a high content of glycine and proline, amino acids that are most abundant in biologically active fragments. Of the two investigated proteolytic enzymes, Proteinase K — an enzyme with broad specificity (e.g., against peptide bonds formed by the carboxyl groups of proline) can release considerably more biologically active fragments than Proteinase P1 — an enzyme with narrow specificity, not including proline residues.
Wheat Bran Stabilization and its Use in the Preparation of High-Fiber Pasta
Authors: Sudha M.L. , Ramasarma P.R. , Venkateswara Rao G.
Published: February 2011

Wheat bran was explored as a source of fiber in the preparation of high-fiber pasta. Ground raw wheat bran having an ash content 5.99%, crude protein 15.1% and fat content 5.83% was subjected to moist heat treatment (steam heat-treated bran) and dry heat treatment (dry heat-treated bran), wherein the lipase activity was reduced by 50%. Treated bran samples were stable for 3 months without developing any rancid flavor and bitterness. Pasta samples were prepared by substituting semolina with 40% and 50% of bran samples. There was no further significant inactivation of lipase activity upon extrusion followed by drying of pasta, irrespective of the type and the amount of bran sample used. The cooked weights of the pasta were in the range 257—268 g/100 g, whereas the cooking loss decreased from 12.8% to 9.3% for treated bran-incorporated pasta. Sensory scores for pasta containing treated bran samples were higher. The total dietary fiber increased by 5.2 times upon replacement of semolina by 40% of treated wheat bran. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis studies showed faint bands in treated bran samples as well as treated bran-incorporated pasta samples.
Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Seven Citrus Cultivars
Authors: Bermejo A. , Llosá M.J. , Cano A.
Published: February 2011

Chemical content in peels of fruits belonging to cultivars of Clementine mandarin (Fino, Loretina and Marisol), Satsume mandarin (Owari), Navel orange (Navelate and Navelina) and Common orange (Valencia Late) groups have been analyzed. The influence of the variety on the content of bioactive constituents at the varietal level is discussed. Rind contents showed similar tendencies for the majority of compounds although Satsume group presented the highest amounts on the flavanone glycosides hesperidin and narirutin, as well as the highest amounts of the carotenoid and β-cryptoxanthin, comparing with the remaining varieties studied. Both mandarin and orange varieties studied showed similar tendencies concerning to other phenolic compounds and total ascorbic acid concentrations. Limonene was the most abundant peel essential oil in all cultivars studied, followed by myrcene. Calcium and potassium were the dominant macronutrients for each cultivar studied, although the proportion of the individual nutrients ranged among different cultivars.
Differences in Rat Models Used in Routine Toxicity Studies
Authors: Weber Klaus , Razinger Tanja , Hardisty Jerry F. , Mann Peter , Martel Kellie C. , Frische Emily A. , Blumbach Kai , Hillen Stephen , Song SeungWoo , Anzai Takayuki , Chevalier Hans-Jörg
Published: February 2011

The discussion on whether the Sprague Dawley (SD), the Fischer F344, or the Hannover Wistar rat is the most appropriate model for toxicity studies in rodents is ongoing. A substantial quantity of data on these strains concerning their source, diet, and housing conditions have been published. Generally, before starting a toxicology program in rodents, it should be taken into account that oncogenicity studies will be required for the majority of compounds successfully completing development. Survival, body weight development, incidence, type, time of onset of age-dependent lesions and neoplasms, as well as some special considerations of the rat model selected may be decisive. Therefore, an understanding of the historical background data is essential. These aspects demonstrate why the use of a specific rat model should be carefully considered at the beginning of the toxicology program.
Wall-eyed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia (WEBINO) syndrome in a patient with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder and anti-aquaporin-4 antibody
Authors: Shinoda Koji , Matsushita Takuya , Furuta Konosuke , Isobe Noriko , Yonekawa Tomomi , Ohyagi Yasumasa , Kira Jun-ichi
Published: February 2011

This report describes, for the first time, an occurrence of wall-eyed bilateral internuclear ophthalmoplegia (WEBINO) in a 19-year-old female with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) spectrum disorder, who had anti-aquaporin-4 (AQP4) antibody. A high signal intensity lesion on T2-weighted MRI was detected in the midbrain tegmentum adjacent to the aqueduct, and presumably involved the medial longitudinal fasciculus bilaterally at the caudal levels. Plasma exchange resolved both WEBINO syndrome and the midbrain lesion. Although WEBINO syndrome is occasionally reported in multiple sclerosis patients, diagnosis of NMO should not be excluded in patients with WEBINO syndrome, because AQP4 is expressed abundantly around the periaqueductal region.
A criminal law for citizens
Authors: Duff R.A.
Published: February 2011

Rather than appealing to penal parsimony as a constraint on the otherwise insatiable demands of the criminal justice system, we should develop a positive account of the proper aims of criminal law which shows parsimony, or moderation, to be integral to those aims. We can do this by developing a republican conception of criminal law as a law that citizens impose on themselves: such a law will be modest in its scope, and will provide a criminal process of trial and punishment that addresses those subjected to it with the respect due to them as citizens.
South African policing at a crossroads
Authors: Marks Monique , Wood Jennifer
Published: February 2011

This article explores the distinct but related notions of ‘minimal’ and ‘minimalist’ policing in the context of South Africa. We argue that these conceptions can shape a new vision for the future of policing in this country, one which is especially needed at a time when the political elites are seeking to re-militarize and centralize policing. This article searches for an answer to the question: Who should the public police be in emergent democracies where there is a plurality of policing providers, state and non-state? Drawing on research conducted in the city of Durban this article demonstrates that, to a large extent, policing is being carried out by agents other than the police. In this context, the article articulates a more circumscribed role for the police in a time (and place) of uncertainty, one that is anchored in local structures of strategic planning and regulation. Within such structures, non-state actors should be supported to play meaningful roles in ‘everyday policing’, but in ways that are moderate and bound by legal constraints within a human rights framework.
Resisting punitiveness in Europe?
Authors: Snacken Sonja
Published: February 2011

Criminological literature of the last decade is rife with tales and analyses of ‘increased’ or ‘new’ punitiveness in western countries over the last 20 or 30 years. This article starts from the finding that levels of punitiveness vary greatly between countries and are correlated with welfare investments and political economy, different democratic political structures leading to more or less populist punitiveness and a different emphasis on human rights and human dignity. It builds on a former argument that penal policies are the result of political choices and transforms the empirical findings concerning welfare, democracy and human rights into normative arguments for a reduced punitiveness.
For penal moderation
Authors: Loader Ian
Published: February 2011

The 2008 financial crash, and the lessons it teaches us about the costs of unregulated excess, offers an opportunity to think anew about, and seek to temper, the enthusiasm for excessive punishment that has swept across several western societies in recent years. Taking this as my point of departure, I make the case in this article for a public philosophy of punishment that can speak to the times we now inhabit—what I call penal moderation. I begin by describing the value and role of a public philosophy of punishment and setting out the constitutive elements of penal moderation as a candidate for such a philosophy. These elements are restraint, parsimony and dignity. I then indicate how penal moderation might be put to work as an intervention in contemporary cultures and practices of punishment— by naming excess, drawing lessons from ‘moderate’ times and places, emphasizing that punishment is a social and political choice, and reconfiguring the relation between penal practice and ‘public’ opinion. I conclude by assessing two contrasting—if not mutually exclusive— styles of penal moderation that I term moderation-by-stealth and moderation-as-politics. My claim is that while the former offers a route to short-term reform, the latter is ultimately more consistent with penal moderation’s aspiration to serve as a public philosophy.
Dynamic Simulation of the Vertical—Longitudinal Motion of a Variable-Displacement Dynamically Supported High-Speed Craft
Authors: Figari M , Vigna G , Vignolo S
Published: February 2011

This paper describes the approach adopted to simulate the behaviour of a high-speed craft with a high percentage of dynamic support and a very rapidly varying displacement, achieved by very rapid ballasting—deballasting during normal operation. The aim of the simulation is to represent the dynamic behaviour of the vessel during transient conditions (acceleration, deceleration, etc.) as well as during steady state conditions (constant-speed navigation). An important aspect of the work is the treatment of the variable mass of the vessel. A formulation of the equations of motion developed by the present authors, which explicitly account for the variable mass, has been used.
Findings and Recommendations From the Interim Evaluation of the Bright Futures for Women’s Health and Wellness Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Tools
Authors: Matoff-Stepp Sabrina
Published: February 2011

The Bright Futures for Women’s Health and Wellness Initiative (BFWHW) Physical Activity and Healthy Eating tools encourage patient–provider discussion in the primary care setting, and promote patient self-management, goal setting, and behavior change. An interim evaluation of the BFWHW tools with 274 female adult patients, 18 providers, and 4 site administrators was conducted at 4 health care sites in the United States. Results suggest that patients, particularly overweight women, were interested in discussing healthy eating and physical activity with their provider during the health care visit and that the tools were helpful for goal setting. Nearly three quarters of providers reported that the materials strengthened their discussion of healthy eating with patients; 67% reported an enhanced conversation about physical activity. Site administrators reported several common themes, including the need for flexibility to adopt new routines and using a patient self-management approach. Barriers to implementation included lack of time in the clinical visit and lack of reimbursement. Recommendations for new approaches to address multiple structural, financial, and literacy barriers in order to facilitate the integration of gender-specific health promotion materials into primary care settings are discussed.
Driving and operation strategies for traction-energy saving in mass rapid transit systems
Authors: Malavasi G , Palleschi P , Ricci S
Published: February 2011

In this article, two models for estimating the energy saving potential on a mass rapid transit system are described. The first model is very useful for analysing the energy and the second one aims at estimating consumptions of a mass rapid transit system in a period of time. The latter was applied first to a generic line with six stations and then to line A of Rome metro network. Results of both applications show that headways of 120–150 s are ideal for energy saving as they allow transfers between braking and accelerating trains.
The effect of contact stress on cartilage friction, deformation and wear
Authors: Lizhang J , Fisher J , Jin Z , Burton A , Williams S
Published: February 2011

Following hip hemiarthroplasty, a metal femoral head articulates against natural acetabular cartilage. Cartilage friction and wear may be influenced by variables including loading time, contact stress, contact area, sliding distance, and sliding speed. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of these variables on cartilage friction, deformation and wear in a simulation using idealized geometry model. Bovine cartilage pins were reciprocated against metal plates to mimic a hemiarthroplasty articulation under static loading. The effective coefficient of friction (µeff) under contact stresses (0.5 to 16 MPa), contact areas (12 and 64 mm2), stroke lengths (4 and 8 mm), sliding velocities (4 and 8 mm/s), and loading time (1 and 24 hours) were studied. The permanent deformation of cartilage (after 24 hours of recovery) with and without motion was recorded to assess cartilage linear wear.

The µeff was found to remain < 0.35 with contact stresses ≤ 4 MPa. Severe damage to the cartilage occurred at contact stresses > 8 MPa and significantly increased µeff after 12 hours of reciprocation. In long-term, contact area had no significant effect on µeff, and sliding distance and velocity only affected µeff under low contact stresses. The cartilage linear wear increased with contact stress, sliding distance and velocity.
Determination of the design specifications of a powered humeral rotator for a myoelectric prosthesis
Authors: Troncossi M , Caminati R , Parenti-Castelli V
Published: February 2011

The University of Bologna and the INAIL Prosthesis Centre are collaborating to design new high-functionality prostheses for upper-limb amputees, with a high-level amputation, who are currently rehabilitated by inadequate commercial solutions. This study deals with the development of a new powered humeral rotator that should integrate the prosthesis previously developed by the research group, which is already provided with a terminal device, a wrist rotator, an elbow joint, and a prototype of shoulder articulation composed of two powered revolute joints. This paper focuses on the design methodology that was followed to retrieve the design input data necessary for the development of the humeral rotator. The methodology is mainly based on kinematic and kinetostatic analyses of multibody models of upper-limb prostheses. The kinematic simulations are used to define the ability of the arm models (that have less than the six degrees of freedom required for generically positioning and orienting the terminal device) satisfactorily to perform important activities of daily living, i.e. with an acceptable accuracy. Kinetostatic analyses are then performed to determine the loads acting on the humeral rotator when performing the mentioned activities, thus making it possible to define fundamental design guidelines and technical specifications.
Viscoelastic properties of the intervertebral disc and the effect of nucleus pulposus removal
Authors: Gadd M J , Shepherd D E T
Published: February 2011

The viscoelastic properties of 12 ovine lumbar discs attached to the adjacent vertebrae were investigated using dynamic mechanical analysis. Each specimen was subjected to a sinusoidally varying compressive force of between 36 and 44 N at frequencies in the range 0.1–10 Hz. Storage stiffness, loss stiffness, and phase angle were calculated. The nucleus pulposus was then removed and the dynamic mechanical analysis was repeated for the denucleated specimen. During the testing the intact and denucleated discs were viscoelastic. Storage stiffness for the intact and denucleated discs increased linearly with log frequency. After removal of the nucleus pulposus the storage stiffness can increase or decrease. The experimental procedure may be useful for investigating whether nucleus replacement implants can restore the viscoelastic properties of an intact disc.
Elementary General Music Teachers’ Reflections on Instruction
Authors: Delaney Diane W.
Published: February 2011

A qualitative study was completed to identify and study the content of selected elementary general music teachers’ evaluations of their own instruction and the instruction of another elementary general music teacher. Participants represented a variety of educational backgrounds and teaching experience: Teacher A (9 years teaching Grades 4—6 at current school), Teacher B (2 years teaching K—5 general music at current school), Teacher C (completing third year teaching Grades 4—6 general music), and Teacher D (completing first year teaching K—4 general music and strings). Through viewing four videotape recordings of lessons and use of an open-ended interview process, participants were able to explain teaching strategies used and reflect on their teaching and the teaching of another elementary general music teacher. The participants recommended that videotape recordings of instruction accompanied by the interview process be used for professional development and to discuss teaching strategies with other teachers.
University-School District World Drumming Partnerships: An Assessment of Students’ Perception of the Value of Global Music and Culture in Their Lives and Schools
Authors: Macedo Dekaney Elisa , Macede Elizeu C. , Pye Lisa R.
Published: February 2011

The current study sought to assess the progress and effectiveness of a partnership program between a university and two high school drumming ensembles. A total of 32 students enrolled in world drumming courses in two urban high schools ( n = 16, n2 = 16) participated in the study. An assessment tool was developed and administered before and after a 1-week residency of a professional music group that specialized in Brazilian music. Participant responses indicated a statistically significant difference in students’ value perceptions as well as their willingness to recommend the world drumming class to other students. Although students enrolled in the younger world drumming group had higher score gains, students in the older group reported higher scores overall. Analysis of qualitative data indicated that students who participated for a longer period of time in the partnership were more proficient when articulating in writing why they value Brazilian music and its relationships to their own musical traditions.
High School Instrumental Music Students’ Attitudes and Beliefs Regarding Practice: An Application of Attribution Theory
Authors: Schatt Matthew D.
Published: February 2011

The purpose of this study was to explore high school band students’ perspectives of instrumental music practice from within the attribution theory paradigm and to attempt to elucidate the secondary student’s attitudes toward practice. High school band students from three Midwestern school districts ( N = 218) completed a survey that was used to collect data related to (a) the high school band student’s view of practice as a growth activity, (b) the high school band student’s view of practice as necessary for musical success, (c) the high school band student’s attribution of success by their musically talented peers to practice, and (d) to observe whether there was a difference in views regarding practice because of the student’s grade level. Results indicated that internal attributions of ability and effort were rated the highest of all belief areas, whereas external attributions of task difficulty and luck were rated lowest. Reported amount of time practiced correlated significantly with intrinsic motivational beliefs and internal attributions regarding practice. The number of years of private lessons provided weak correlations in all belief areas with the exception of External Motivation: Avoid Failure. Gender appeared to be significant in the area of attribution of effort with female participants rating statements higher than male participants. Engaging in private study correlated to significant findings in all belief areas with the exception of effort.
The rate of hemolysis in sickle cell disease correlates with the quantity of active von Willebrand factor in the plasma
Authors: Chen Junmei , Hobbs William E. , Le Jennie , Lenting Peter J. , de Groot Philip G. , López José A.
Published: February 2011

Vaso-occlusion, hemolysis, and oxidative stress are hallmarks of sickle cell disease (SCD). This pathology is accompanied by systemic endothelial activation, rendering the endothelium more adhesive for blood cells, including sickle erythrocytes. Activated endothelial cells display or secrete several adhesive molecules, including von Willebrand factor (VWF). We assessed several VWF parameters in SCD patients at baseline: multimer pattern, antigen concentration (VWF:Ag), activation factor (VWF:AF), and total active VWF (VWF:TA). VWF:AF was determined using a llama nanobody (AU/VWFa-11) that detects a platelet-binding conformation of the A1 domain; VWF:TA was calculated by multiplying VWF:Ag by VWF:AF. SCD plasma contained elevated VWF:Ag and ultralarge VWF multimers. VWF:TA, a measure of total VWF reactivity, correlated closely with hemolysis, as determined by serum lactate dehydrogenase. ADAMTS13 activity and antigen were normal in all patients. These findings suggest an important role for hyperreactive VWF in SCD pathology and connect SCD to other microangiopathies, particularly thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura.
Is normal hematopoiesis maintained solely by long-term multipotent stem cells?
Authors: Cavazzana-Calvo Marina , Fischer Alain , Bushman Frederic D. , Payen Emmanuel , Hacein-Bey-Abina Salima , Leboulch Philippe
Published: February 2011

The understanding of the hierarchical organization of the human hematopoietic system is of major biologic and clinical significance. The validity of the conventional model in which hematopoiesis is solely maintained by a pool of multipotent long-term hematopoietic stem cells (LT-HSCs) has been recently challenged by several mouse studies. These new data point to the existence of a heterogeneous stem cell population that consists of distinct subsets of LT-HSCs, which include stem cells biased toward lineage-specific differentiation programs. This review attempts to discuss the balanced versus biased patterns of lineage output of human LT-HSCs gathered in 3 different gene therapy trials on the basis of vector integration site analysis by deep sequencing. The distribution of integration sites observed tends to support the validity of the revised model.
The tumor marker Fascin is strongly induced by the Tax oncoprotein of HTLV-1 through NF-κB signals
Authors: Kress Andrea K. , Kalmer Martina , Rowan Aileen G. , Grassmann Ralph , Fleckenstein Bernhard
Published: February 2011

Oncogenic transformation of CD4+ T cells by human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) is understood as the initial step to adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma, a process that is mainly initiated by perturbation of cellular signaling by the viral Tax oncoprotein, a potent transcriptional regulator. In search of novel biomarkers with relevance to oncogenesis, we identified the tumor marker and actin-bundling protein Fascin (FSCN1) to be specifically and strongly up-regulated in both HTLV-1–transformed and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma patient-derived CD4+ T cells. Fascin is important for migration and metastasis in various types of cancer. Here we report that a direct link can exist between a single viral oncoprotein and Fascin expression, as the viral oncoprotein Tax was sufficient to induce high levels of Fascin. Nuclear factor-κB signals were important for Tax-mediated transcriptional regulation of Fascin in T cells. This suggests that Fascin up-regulation by Tax contributes to the development of HTLV-1–associated pathogenesis.
Pathogenesis and transmissibility of highly (H7N1) and low (H7N9) pathogenic avian influenza virus infection in red-legged partridge (Alectoris rufa)
Authors: Bertran Kateri , Pérez-Ramírez Elisa , Busquets Núria , Dolz Roser , Ramis Antonio , Darji Ayub , Abad Francesc Xavier , Valle Rosa , Chaves Aida , Vergara-Alert Júlia , Barral Marta , Höfle Ursula , Majó Natàlia
Published: February 2011

An experimental infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) and low pathogenic avian influenza virus (LPAIV) was carried out in red-legged partridges (Alectoris rufa) in order to study clinical signs, gross and microscopic lesions, and viral distribution in tissues and viral shedding. Birds were infected with a HPAIV subtype H7N1 (A/Chicken/Italy/5093/1999) and a LPAIV subtype H7N9 (A/Anas crecca/Spain/1460/2008). Uninoculated birds were included as contacts in both groups. In HPAIV infected birds, the first clinical signs were observed at 3 dpi, and mortality started at 4 dpi, reaching 100% at 8 dpi. The presence of viral antigen in tissues and viral shedding were confirmed by immunohistochemistry and quantitative real time RT-PCR (qRRT-PCR), respectively, in all birds infected with HPAIV. However, neither clinical signs nor histopathological findings were observed in LPAIV infected partridges. In addition, only short-term viral shedding together with seroconversion was detected in some LPAIV inoculated animals. The present study demonstrates that the red-legged partridge is highly susceptible to the H7N1 HPAIV strain, causing severe disease, mortality and abundant viral shedding and thus contributing to the spread of a potential local outbreak of this virus. In contrast, our results concerning H7N9 LPAIV suggest that the red-legged partridge is not a reservoir species for this virus.
Experimental infection of Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas spat by ostreid herpesvirus 1: demonstration of oyster spat susceptibility
Authors: Schikorski David , Renault Tristan , Saulnier Denis , Faury Nicole , Moreau Pierrick , Pépin Jean-François
Published: February 2011

In 2008 and 2009, acute mortalities occurred in France among Pacific cupped oyster, Crassostrea gigas, spat. Different hypothesis including the implication of environmental factors, toxic algae and/or pathogens have been explored. Diagnostic tests indicated that OsHV-1 including a particular genotype, termed OsHV-1 μVar, was detected in most of samples and especially in moribund oysters with the highlighting of virus particles looking like herpes viruses by TEM examination. In this study, an experimental protocol to reproduce OsHV-1 infection in laboratory conditions was developed. This protocol was based on the intramuscular injection of filtered (0.22 μm) tissue homogenates prepared from naturally OsHV-1 infected spat collected on French coasts during mortality outbreaks in 2008. Results of the experimental trials showed that mortalities were induced after injection. Moreover, filtered tissue homogenates induced mortalities whereas the same tissue homogenates exposed to an ultraviolet (UV) treatment did not induce any mortality suggesting that oyster spat mortalities require the presence of a UV sensitive agent. Furthermore, analysis of injected oyster spat revealed the detection of high amounts of OsHV-1 DNA by real-time quantitative PCR. Finally, TEM analysis demonstrated the presence of herpes virus particles. The developed protocol allowed to maintain sources of infective virus which can be useful for the development of further studies concerning the transmission and the development of OsHV-1 infection.
Reduction in antioxidant enzyme expression and sustained inflammation enhance tissue damage in the subacute phase of spinal cord contusive injury
Authors: Wang Chih-Yen , Chen Jen-Kun , Wu Yi-Ting , Tsai May-Jywan , Shyue Song-Kun , Yang Chung-Shi , Tzeng Shun-Fen
Published: February 2011

Background

Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) forms a disadvantageous microenvironment for tissue repair at the lesion site. To consider an appropriate time window for giving a promising therapeutic treatment for subacute and chronic SCI, global changes of proteins in the injured center at the longer survival time points after SCI remains to be elucidated.

Methods

Through two-dimensional electrophoresis (2DE)-based proteome analysis and western blotting, we examined the differential expression of the soluble proteins isolated from the lesion center (LC) at day 1 (acute) and day 14 (subacute) after a severe contusive injury to the thoracic spinal cord at segment 10. In situ apoptotic analysis was used to examine cell apoptosis in injured spinal cord after adenoviral gene transfer of antioxidant enzymes. In addition, administration of chondroitinase ABC (chABC) was performed to analyze hindlimb locomotor recovery in rats with SCI using Basso, Beattie and Bresnahan (BBB) locomotor rating scale.

Results

Our results showed a decline in catalase (CAT) and Mn-superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) found at day 14 after SCI. Accordingly, gene transfer of SOD was introduced in the injured spinal cord and found to attenuate cell apoptosis. Galectin-3, β-actin, actin regulatory protein (CAPG), and F-actin-capping protein subunit β (CAPZB) at day 14 were increased when compared to that detected at day 1 after SCI or in sham-operated control. Indeed, the accumulation of β-actin+ immune cells was observed in the LC at day 14 post SCI, while most of reactive astrocytes were surrounding the lesion center. In addition, chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans (CSPG)-related proteins with 40-kDa was detected in the LC at day 3-14 post SCI. Delayed treatment with chondroitinase ABC (chABC) at day 3 post SCI improved the hindlimb locomotion in SCI rats.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that the differential expression in proteins related to signal transduction, oxidoreduction and stress contribute to extensive inflammation, causing time-dependent spread of tissue damage after severe SCI. The interventions by supplement of anti-oxidant enzymes right after SCI or delayed administration with chABC can facilitate spinal neural cell survival and tissue repair.
Ethanol extract of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi prevents oxidative damage and neuroinflammation and memorial impairments in artificial senescense mice
Authors: Jeong Kukhuon , Shin Yong-Cheol , Park Sunju , Park Jeong-Su , Kim Namil , Um Jae-Young , Go Hoyeon , Sun Seungho , Lee Sundong , Park Wansu , Choi Youkyung , Song Yunkyung , Kim Gyungjun , Jeon Chanyong , Park Jonghyeong , Lee Keysang , Bang Oksun , Ko Seong-Gyu
Published: February 2011

Aging is a progressive process related to the accumulation of oxidative damage and neuroinflammation. We tried to find the anti-amnesic effect of the Scutellaria baicalens Georgia (SBG) ethanol extract and its major ingredients. The antioxidative effect of SBG on the mice model with memory impairment induced by chronic injection of D-galactose and sodium nitrate was studied. The Y-maze test was used to evaluate the learning and memory function of mice. The activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase and the content of malondialdehyde in brain tissue were used for the antioxidation activities. Neuropathological alteration and expression of bcl-2 protein were investigated in the hippocampus by immunohistochemical staining. ROS, neuroinflammation and apoptosis related molecules expression such as Cox-2, iNOS, procaspase-3, cleaved caspase-3, 8 and 9, bcl-2 and bax protein and the products of iNOS and Cox-2, NO, PGE2, were studied using LPS-activated Raw 264.7 cells and microglia BV2 cells. The cognition of mice was significantly improved by the treatment of baicalein and 50 and 100 mg/kg of SBG in Y-maze test. Both SBG groups showed strong antioxidation, antiinflammation effects with significantly decreased iNOS and Cox-2 expression, NO and PGE2 production, increased bcl-2 and decreased bax and cleaved caspase-3 protein expression in LPS induced Raw 264.7 and BV2 cells. We also found that apoptotic pathway was caused by the intrinsic mitochondrial pathway with the decreased cleaved caspase-9 and unchanged cleaved caspase-8 expression. These findings suggest that SBG, especially high dose, 100 mg/kg, improved the memory impairments significantly and showed antioxidation, antiinflammation and intrinsic caspase-mediated apoptosis effects.
Placenta growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor B expression in the hypoxic lung
Authors: Sands Michelle , Howell Katherine , Costello Christine M , McLoughlin Paul
Published: February 2011

Background

Chronic alveolar hypoxia, due to residence at high altitude or chronic obstructive lung diseases, leads to pulmonary hypertension, which may be further complicated by right heart failure, increasing morbidity and mortality. In the non-diseased lung, angiogenesis occurs in chronic hypoxia and may act in a protective, adaptive manner. To date, little is known about the behaviour of individual vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) family ligands in hypoxia-induced pulmonary angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of placenta growth factor (PlGF) and VEGFB during the development of hypoxic pulmonary angiogenesis and their functional effects on the pulmonary endothelium.

Methods

Male Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to conditions of normoxia (21% O2) or hypoxia (10% O2) for 1-21 days. Stereological analysis of vascular structure, real-time PCR analysis of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), VEGFB, placenta growth factor (PlGF), VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR1) and VEGFR2, immunohistochemistry and western blots were completed. The effects of VEGF ligands on human pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells were determined using a wound-healing assay.

Results

Typical vascular remodelling and angiogenesis were observed in the hypoxic lung. PlGF and VEGFB mRNA expression were significantly increased in the hypoxic lung. Immunohistochemical analysis showed reduced expression of VEGFB protein in hypoxia although PlGF protein was unchanged. The expression of VEGFA mRNA and protein was unchanged. In vitro PlGF at high concentration mimicked the wound-healing actions of VEGFA on pulmonary microvascular endothelial monolayers. Low concentrations of PlGF potentiated the wound-healing actions of VEGFA while higher concentrations of PlGF were without this effect. VEGFB inhibited the wound-healing actions of VEGFA while VEGFB and PlGF together were mutually antagonistic.

Conclusions

VEGFB and PlGF can either inhibit or potentiate the actions of VEGFA, depending on their relative concentrations, which change in the hypoxic lung. Thus their actions in vivo depend on their specific concentrations within the microenvironment of the alveolar wall during the course of adaptation to pulmonary hypoxia.